Liverpool could hit two birds with one stone if they are to sign the latest name being linked with the club.

According to the father of Roland Sallai, Szoboszlai's international teammate, Liverpool have already made contact to sign the Galatasaray winger.

"Liverpool could be such a destination, and I admit, I wouldn't be surprised if this club change happened now, in the winter," Tibor Sallai told Blikk.

"I know that contact has already been made through a management office. I don't want to and I don't want to shout anything, but my son will really have a good chance in the summer, if there is an offer that is also beneficial for Galatasaray, to change country and level. It wouldn't be just any moment if Liverpool were to run out onto the Anfield Road turf with three Hungarians in the starting lineup."

Sallai's father is referencing the fact that Liverpool already have Milos Kerkez and Szoboszlai playing for them.

Here's why this could be a really good move for Liverpool. While Sallai is a little bit on the more experienced side he is an extremely versatile player.

Predominantly, he is a winger. He has been playing that position ever since he started his career in senior football.

But this season Sallai has also become a right-back at Galatasaray. He's played really well in that position, impressing against Juventus and Manchester City in the Champions League, while coming up against some really tricky wingers.

So, there should be no surprise that he would be on Liverpool's radar. Sallai is the type of player Liverpools' recruitment team have loved over the last few years.

He can solve a problem at right-back, he can provide depth on the wings, and on top of that he's even played through the middle for Hungary's national team, so he could potentially be used as a false nine, too.

LOS ANGELES — As Alijah Arenas walked off the Pauley Pavilion court after picking up his third foul just four minutes into the second half of USC's rivalry game against UCLA on Tuesday night, he slammed his hands on the bench in frustration.

It was that kind of night for Arenas, and that kind of night for the Trojans in general as they lost, 81-62, to their archrivals. And maybe that kind of season.

USC was ice cold from the floor all night, struggling to find any real offensive contribution from anyone other than Chad Baker-Mazara, who led the team with 25 points. His 14 points in the first half made him the only Trojan to that point with more than two made field goals. Arenas had four points in the first — all from the free-throw line — in only nine minutes after picking up two early fouls.

It was a game that USC simply could not afford to lose as one of the first four teams out in USA TODAY Sports' latest Bracketology. The Trojans now drop their fourth consecutive Big Ten game, and second consecutive Quad 1 matchup after blowing a late lead to Oregon on Saturday.

Even with the bumps expected since making his freshman debut in late January — five months after tearing his right meniscus practice in July — Arenas continues to flash the potential that made him a five-star recruit and potential lottery pick entering the season.

If it doesn't show in the stat sheet, it shows in the little things: dribbling out of double teams, getting to the line, grabbing boards and setting his teammates up for open looks. Arenas also added six points down the final stretch to finish the game as the only Trojan besides Baker-Mazara to score in double figures.

Here's how Alijah Arenas fared in Tuesday's loss to UCLA:

MORE: Alijah Arenas makes USC debut: How did freshman do vs Northwestern?

Alijah Arenas stats vs. UCLA

• Points: 10
• FG: 2-for-8 (0-for-2 from 3-point line)
• Free Throws: 6-for-6
• Rebounds: 4
• Assists: 0
• Steals: 1
• Blocks: 0
• Turnovers: 5
• Fouls: 3
• Minutes: 21

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Alijah Arenas stats, points tonight, USC vs UCLA highlights

Manchester United had two players in loan action on Tuesday night.

To find out where all of Manchester United’s loanees are plying their trade this season, click here.

Radek Vitek

Vitek was in sensational form as he helped his side to a crucial 2-1 away win over Blackburn Rovers.

The Czech keeper could do little to keep out the home side’s opener as a ferocious effort was thrashed into the roof of the net from close range by Yuki Ohashi. In the second half, he pulled off an impressive flying save to deny the home side a second after a wonderful scissor kick attempt.

He also denied Blackburn late on when an effort was slid in from a cross, but Vitek stood tall to repel the effort. The Manchester United academy player was not finished yet, though, as he saved from close range after a fine mazy run from the Blackburn attacker.

He made a total of six saves, with five of them coming from shots inside the area.

Vitek also made two high claims and two clearances in the game. He also came out on top in his only aerial duel of the match.

Bristol City will be back in action on Friday evening at home to Watford.

Radek Vitek stats vs Blackburn

Ethan Wheatley

Wheatley was substituted on in the 24th minute but then left the pitch again after 74 minutes in Bradford City’s 1-0 win over Rotherham United.

He had one shot that was blocked and failed in both his dribble attempts.

Wheatley did well in his passing, though, making two key passes and completing 72% of his overall attempts.

He also won a total of five duels in the match as he put himself about well with the Rotherham defence.

Bradford will next be in action away to Reading on Saturday afternoon.

Feature image Ed Sykes via Getty Images

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No. 4 Iowa State looked like a team that was ready for a bounce back when the Cyclones met up with Utah on Tuesday night at the Huntsman Center.

The Cyclones were coming off a 79-69 loss at BYU three days before, just their fourth loss of the season.

Seven minutes into the matchup with the Runnin’ Utes, though, Iowa State seized control and never let go.

Utah led 12-10 early, but the Cyclones used a 12-0 run to build a double-digit lead for the first time, and from there, Iowa State’s pressure defense was simply too much for the Utes to realistically hope that they could keep pace.

Utah ended up turning the ball over a season-high 18 times against the Cyclones, who converted those takeaways into 20 points.

“The pressure, it’s hard to replicate that pressure in practice. We let our guys know it was coming, but it’s hard to stay in a game with a team like that when you turn the ball over, especially that many times in the first half, I think it was 11,” Utah coach Alex Jensen said.

“But (there’s) a lot of things to learn for us, again. We made some good plays, but then we struggled to keep replicating that. All the credit to Iowa State, a good team.”

Iowa State also had the edge in points in the paint (38-26) and bench scoring (26-8), two signs of the Cyclones’ superior physicality and depth.

Eventually, the Utes wore down.

“Across the board, our guys took a lot of pride in guarding the basketball and making sure that we continue to be disruptive throughout the course of the game,” Iowa State coach T.J. Otzelberger said. “For us, that’s when we’re at our best, and our guys did a great job with that.”

Utah still made it interesting for a minute in the second half after trailing 41-31 at halftime.

Over the first 3:09 of the second half, Utah went on a 9-4 run, trimming that deficit in half.

The final field goal in that stretch was particularly impressive — just 20 seconds after Don McHenry scored to make it 45-38, Keanu Dawes came up with a steal, then the Utes moved the ball quickly around before it went back to Dawes, whose slam made it 45-40.

That brought the Huntsman Center crowd to life.

Unfortunately, the Cyclones had an answer.

Iowa State clamped down defensively again, and Utah — who shot just 38.1% in the second half — only scored four points over the next six and a half minutes as the Cyclones (24-4, 11-4 Big 12) pushed their way to a game-high 17-point lead at 61-44.

That stretch squelched any hopes that Utah (10-18, 2-13 Big 12) could pull the upset.

Forward Joshua Jefferson, an All-Big 12 second-teamer a year ago, paced Iowa State in the second half. He had 13 of his 21 points after the break and also had six rebounds, three assists and two steals.

“It felt pretty good,” Jefferson said, when asked about his ability to bring the fight in a physical game. “You know, (I’ve) been dealing with physicality all season, so I expect it at this point. People are just going to try to muscle me up, but it’s just on me to outmaneuver them every single time I can.”

Milan Momlicovic hit three of his four 3-pointers in the second half and had 14 points for Iowa State, who shot 47.5% for the game.

Jamarion Batemon (13 points) and Blake Buchanan (10) also scored in double-figures for the Cyclones.

Early on, it looked like Utah might make a game out of it. The Utes made five of their first nine field goals, on a night where Utah shot 45.7%, including a four-point play from McHenry on the Utes’ opening possession.

Once Utah got out to that 12-10 lead, though, the Cyclones’ swarming defense got Utah to speed up, and Iowa State used a 18-5 run to go up 28-17.

“I think everybody saw it, the full-court pressure,” Jensen said of Iowa State’s suffocating defense. “Again, hard to replicate it. … I think it just got us sped up and out of our game plan a little bit, and then, you know, (it) gets discouraging when it’s hard to pass the ball.”

The Utes got the crowd back into the contest with an 8-0 spurt, headlined by back-to-back 3-pointers from Seydou Traore and Terrence Brown, to cut the Iowa State lead to 29-27.

Iowa State, though, again had a response, going on a 6-0 run over the next minute, including a fastbreak layup off a steal, to push its lead back out to 35-27.

The Cyclones took a 41-31 lead into halftime, after forcing 11 first-half turnovers from Utah and converting those into 14 points.

Utah’s guards led the way for the home team, as Brown, McHenry and Obomate Abbey combined to score Utah’s first 21 points and 24 of their 31 in the first half.

Brown scored 18 points and shot 6 of 10 from the field and 6 of 8 from the free-throw line. He added four rebounds and three assists, but Brown also had a seven-worst seven turnovers.

McHenry put up 14 points and added two assists and a steal.

Dawes, meanwhile, had his fifth double-double in the past eight games, finishing with 10 points and 12 rebounds. He also had two assists and a steal.

For the Utes, there was plenty to learn from the loss — including how they can attack the pressure that teams like Iowa State will throw at them.

“You got to use the aggressiveness against them, get a lot of back door cuts,” Dawes said. “And I think we got them a little, especially in the second half. We just got to do that more and figure out what works more earlier on in the game.”

Utah will be on the road for two of its final three games of the regular season.

That starts with a trip to Arizona State on Saturday (1:30 p.m. MST, TNT).

After Utah faced another physical team in Iowa State — its the fifth top 5 Big 12 defense the Utes have had to deal with the past three weeks, along with Houston, Kansas, West Virginia and Cincinnati — Jensen simply tipped his cap to the effort from Iowa State.

“Give a lot of credit to T.J. and Iowa State, it’s a good team, well assembled. They play hard, their guys play their roles. They sustain effort, and they get better as the game goes on,” he said.

When discussing clean-sheet odds, we need to evaluate both the attacking strength and defensive record of the two teams involved.

On paper, Wolves appear an obvious target — they have scored the fewest goals in the league and conceded the second most.

However, since the January transfer window, they’ve shown signs of revival and haven’t given up on the relegation fight.

Back-to-back draws against Nottingham Forest and Arsenal suggest improvement, so their matchup against Aston Villa may not be as straightforward as it initially looks.

A clean sheet is especially valuable for goalkeepers and defenders.

Because of this, strong clean sheet odds can significantly boost a defender or goalkeeper’s returns, making defensive fixtures just as important as attacking ones when planning transfers and captaincy decisions.

Gameweek 28 Clean sheet Odds Percentages

• Liverpool – 41%
• Arsenal – 40%
• Man Utd – 40%
• Bournemouth – 38%
• Newcastle – 38%
• Man City – 37%
• Brentford – 37%
• Aston Villa – 35%
• Brighton – 33%
• Fulham – 29%
• Tottenham – 25%
• Notts Forest – 23%
• Sunderland – 20%
• Wolves – 20%
• Burnley – 20%
• Chelsea – 18%
• Everton – 18%
• Crystal Palace – 17%
• Leeds – 15%
• West Ham – 10%

The 2026 league year is coming next month. It officially begins on March 11, with the legal negotiating period beginning on March 9.

The Arizona Cardinals have many roster decisions to make before then.

Leading up to the new league year, we will profile every player on the roster, go over what they did last season, what their contract status is and what they face in 2026.

Next up is wide receiver Jalen Brooks.

Jalen Brooks 2025 season

In his third NFL season, he began the year with the Dallas Cowboys on their practice squad. He got hurt and was leater released, and the Cardinals signed him to their practice squad at the end of October. He was elevated three times and then signed to the active roster in December.

He appeared in six games and had three catches for 51 yards in 107 offensive snaps. He also was part of the kickoff team, returning 10 for 254 yards.

Jalen Brooks contract status

Brooks, when he was signed to the active roster, was signed through 2026, so he is under contract. He will make $1.145 million in salary if he makes the roster. It is the league minimum for a fourth-year player.

Jalen Brooks offseason outlook

Brooks is under contract, so he will likely get at least the offseason program and OTAs to show the new coaching staff what he can offer.

He has yet to catch more than 12 passes in a season, so his best bet is to prove himself as a kick returner.

Get more Cardinals and NFL coverage from Cards Wire's Jess Root and others by listening to the latest on the Rise Up, See Red podcast. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube or Apple podcasts.

This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: Jalen Brooks' contract status and 2026 offseason outlook

It’s been one step forward and two steps backward for Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies. He sustained a muscle fiber tear in his right hamstring during Bayern’s recent 3-2 win over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Bundesliga and was forced to come off in the 50th minute to be replaced by Hiroki Ito. He’s now set for a considerable spell on the sidelines for the German Rekordmeister and a combination of Ito, Konrad Laimer, Josip Stanišić, Tom Bischof, and Raphaël Guerreiro will have to fill in at left back for Vincent Kompany.

The injury blow for the Canadian international unfortunately comes just over two months after he had made his return to action from his cruciate ligament injury that he had suffered last March whilst on international duty with the Canadian national team for the CONCACAF Nations League. At the time, Davies’ injury was the subject of controversy because he had injured his knee in the semifinals match against Mexico and should not have played in the third place, dead rubber match against the United States that ultimately lead to the cruciate ligament tear and its severity.

Ahead of Canada’s upcoming March friendlies against the likes of Iceland and Uzbekistan, the Canadian Soccer Federation released a statement saying they’re currently unsure whether or not Davies will take part in the pair of matches. They also express that they’re in contact with Bayern reharding the matter.

The statement (via @iMiaSanMia):

Our Men’s National Team’s medical staff continues to be in close communication with FC Bayern München’s medical staff concerning Alphonso Davies. A determination on his availability for the upcoming March international window has not yet been made. In the coming weeks, we will announce the full team roster.

It’s all in perspective. For the Canadian national team and Davies, pride is always at play and he’ll want to play every match he can for his country, rightfully so. For Bayern, they’d be watching with nervous eyes if Davies plays a part in the friendlies at such a crucial stage of the season for the Bundesliga champions and losing him again to another long-term injury could prove to be costly.

Suwaid Fazal – Finding a way, but the honeymoon period is over 

Unbeaten runs are great, and the current run has paved the way for United to control their own destiny. With no cup fixtures and some important squad players set to return from injury with 11 games to go, everything suggests United will qualify for the Champions League. 

Of course, things are never that easy, and United have made hard work of their last three games. When Ruben Amorim was in charge, I often suggested that he overestimated the quality of the team’s performances in some games. The team might’ve been marginally better in certain games, but having failed to fully convince since taking over, he was never going to get the benefit of the doubt when the team got nothing from games where a draw seemed a fair result or a point when the team could’ve taken all three. 

Michael Carrick has got the margins by taking chances towards the end of games and making attacking substitutions, even when the performances have been par at best. The best teams need the margins to lift the biggest prizes, so there’s no fault in getting over the line like this. However, United should be under no illusions about what’s got them into the driving seat for Champions League qualification. Every game’s going to be a grind, and that’s fine as long as everyone understands this.

Colin Damms – Forward Depth

For three of Super Interim Michael Carrick’s six matches, Benjamin Sesko has played the hero.

The Slovenian forward switched on soon after Ruben Amorim’s departure, scoring thrice in two matches under Darren Fletcher, and coming off the bench to score the winning goal in two matches and an equalizer two weeks ago at West Ham in the dying minutes. He is showing the kind of instincts and final third awareness that fans were hoping for when the club pulled the trigger on another expensive striker. Simply put, he knows where the goal is, and whether he is coming off the bench or not he is in a valuable role to switch things up in attack.

One quick look at the rest of the bench on Monday and alarm bells should be ringing about what Plan C is.

Amad, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha represent the only healthy wide attackers at the moment, and Joshua Zirkzee is the only striker apart from Sesko.

That’s it.

What happens if Plan B stops working? What happens if someone stops firing? What happens if someone else gets hurt?

These are all concerns for the remainder of the season, but with a schedule that is fairly spaced out from now until May, it is doable to navigate. There may come a lack of tactical diversity and selection, but as Suwaid mentioned above, it’s all about grinding out results at this point.

Pauly Kwestel – Carrick’s defensive fortress

Football fans – and let’s be honest, football clubs too – have a tendency to get a bit antsy and push for a club to reach a higher level sooner rather than later and often before a team is truly ready to make that jump. What often flies under the radar is how much work goes in to making sure the bottom doesn’t fall out from under the team. It’s something we never truly see until it happens.

United have been a bit drab the last two games – specifically in the first half. The attack that started so bright under Carrick has started to look flat. That’s partially down to style of play. United aren’t taking as many risks going forward, they’re not sending as many players up the pitch – particularly in the first half. Instead they’re focusing on their defensive shape and ensuring the opposition gets nothing. They’ve been superb in this area. Over the last two games they’ve conceded of four shots for a total xG of 0.09 in the first half.

This is all part of the plan and it’s part of a total defensive transformation that’s happened under Carrick. United are conceding one fewer shot per game than they did under Amorim, their expected goals against has dropped by nearly half a goal, and the shot quality has dropped from among a league worst 0.11 xG per shot to a league best xG per shot. More impressive has been their defending in open play where they are giving their opponents nothing. In five games under Carrick United are conceding a league best 0.5 open-play xG per game.

This is the foundation that Carrick is building on. A team that does not concede chances and therefore doesn’t concede goals. It may come at the expense of the attack but Carrick has had the ace up his sleeve in Benjamin Sesko coming off the bench to give United that extra firepower. There may be frustration about Sesko not playing from the jump, but Carrick’s been able to put him in a position to win games for United for the simple reason that he’s got a rock solid defense shutting the door on their opponents.

Nathan Heintschel – Still way too soon to even suggest that the summer 2025 transfer class is transformational but continue to watch this space

I said it in my post-Everton match report, and I gotta say it again: United’s recent summer signings were instrumental in delivering a win that the team perhaps didn’t totally deserve. My colleague Suwaid wrote about margins at the top of this article, and these new players were the kinds of guys that the club were missing last season.

The 71st minute combo of Cunha to Mbeumo to Sesko to drive a dagger right through Everton’s sustained offensive pressure to take (steal) three points was magnificent. And the contributions in goal from Senne Lammens to guarantee the three points were even better — earning him a well-earned man of the match recognition.

This is a team in transition, and these players were the kinds of guys to push the club forward to a European campaign next season instead of another backslide. During this six-match unbeaten streak in the Michael Carrick interim era, this team has stormed to convincing victories while scoring multiple goals, and, now, they have gutted out a mature, pragmatic win on the road against a stubborn ass team.

I promise, I’m not getting over my skis, and I’m not saying this team is one more transfer window away from No. 21. But I do think that what I saw in those 20 minutes and some change to end the match was encouraging in a way that was different compared to results like the 2-0 wins over the likes of Manchester City and Tottenham or the 3-2 wins over Arsenal and Fulham.

BYU quickly goes from scoring an upset to suffering one.

After notching what seemed to be a rejuvenating win over No. 6 Iowa State this past weekend, the Cougars fell 97-84 Tuesday night to unranked UCF in the most disappointing performance of the Kevin Young era.

The Cougars are now 20-8 on the season and 8-7 in Big 12 play.

pic.twitter.com/BnTDd0FpK4

— BYU Men's Basketball (@BYUMBB) February 25, 2026

3 takeaways

UCF dominated from start to finish. BYU never led at any point on Tuesday, falling into a 10-point hole after less than four minutes and going into halftime trailing by 24.

Any sliver of hope for dramatic late comeback vanished once UCF opened the second half on a 12-0 run.

With the loss, BYU broke a 16-game win streak against unranked opponents at home.

But more concerningly, such a setback could cause a significant slide for the Cougars’ NCAA tournament seeding a few weeks from now.

BYU couldn’t stop UCF. When the Cougars fell 99-92 at Oklahoma State earlier this month, it felt as if their defense had hit rock bottom.

However, giving up 97 points at home to UCF is clearly much more alarming, especially considering the Knights were playing without their leading scorer Riley Kugel, who missed the game with an injury.

UCF made five of its first six 3-pointers and never slowed down, having a separate stretch of nine of 12 makes and finishing the night shooting 58% from behind the arc.

In all, the Knights shot 56% from the field, scored 44 paint points, 19 points in transition and averaged 1.31 points per possession.

A stronger second half couldn’t salvage BYU’s poor offensive showing. The Cougars did score 56 points after halftime, but considering their second half scoring didn’t begin until being down by 36 points, it’s safe to say the whole period was essentially just garbage time.

In all, BYU shot 41% from the field and 33% from 3-point range. In the first half, those marks were 31% and 27%, respectively, for a meager 28 points.

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Anthony Edwards scored 34 points and made five 3-pointers to help the Minnesota Timberwolves hold off the Portland Trail Blazers 124-121 on Tuesday night, their fourth win in their last five games.

Jaden McDaniels added 27 points, six rebounds, three assists, two steals and five blocks for the Timberwolves.

Donte DiVincenzo had 19 points and made five 3-pointers, and Julius Randle had 13 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Rudy Gobert scored just 10 points but had 19 rebounds and changed the game defensively.

Jrue Holiday led the Blazers with 22 points. Jerami Grant had 18 points, and Donovan Clingan scored 11 points and grabbed 15 rebounds.

Scoot Henderson had 19 points, six rebounds and five assists off the bench.

It was a tight, physical, back-and-forth affair with 15 lead changes, but Minnesota’s 3-point shooting (17 of 35) was enough to hold off the Blazers, who were 14 of 35 from deep.

Up next

Trail Blazers: Face the Bulls in Chicago on Thursday night.

Timberwolves: Face the Clippers in Los Angeles on Thursday night.

___

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

The 2026 league year is coming next month. It officially begins on March 11, with the legal negotiating period beginning on March 9.

The Arizona Cardinals have many roster decisions to make before then.

Leading up to the new league year, we will profile every player on the roster, go over what they did last season, what their contract status is and what they face in 2026.

Next up is wide receiver Xavier Weaver.

Xavier Weaver 2025 season

In his second season with the team, Weaver played in 10 games, caught seven passes for 67 yards and two touchdowns.

He also returned two kickoffs for 51 yards.

Xavier Weaver contract status

Signed as a rookie free agent in 2024, he has one year remaining on his contract, and he is scheduled to make $1.08 million in salary with no guarantees. He will be a restricted free agent in 2027.

Xavier Weaver offseason outlook

Weaver's role in 2026 is far from certain. The Cardinals have a new coaching staff, and he has only seven receptions in two NFL seasons.

He will get a shot in the offseason and, with a new coaching staff, perhaps can impress, but it will likely be for a back-of-the-roster role.

Get more Cardinals and NFL coverage from Cards Wire's Jess Root and others by listening to the latest on the Rise Up, See Red podcast. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube or Apple podcasts.

This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: Xavier Weaver's contract status and 2026 offseason outlook

In a topsy-turvy fourth quarter, the Lakers came up short when LeBron James missed a last-second shot that sent L.A. to a 110-109 loss to the Magic on Tuesday night at Crypto.com Arena.

James had 21 points, six rebounds and four assists.

Luka Doncic had 22 points, but he was just eight-for-24 from the field and two-for-10 from three-point range.

The game went back-and-forth most of the fourth quarter, each play more important than the previous one, each moment more intense, each possession more meaningful for both teams.

When Rui Hachimura drilled a three-pointer from the corner off a pass from Doncic with two minutes and 14 seconds left, the Lakers (34-23) looked to be in pretty good shape.

But Paolo Banchero scored and was fouled by Deandre Ayton. Banchero missed the free throw, leaving the Lakers ahead 106-105 with 1:18 left.

Read more:New Lakers executive Lon Rosen discusses increased ticket prices, Magic Johnson

LeBron James went to work in the post over the smaller Anthony Black, drawing a foul. But James made just one of two free throws for a 107-105 Lakers lead

Desmond Bane answered with a three-pointer for a 108-107 lead that forced the Lakers to call a timeout with 34.6 seconds left.

James then scored on a dunk for a 109-108 Lakers lead.

Banchero missed a jumper for the Magic, but Wendell Carter Jr. grabbed an offensive rebound and scored for a 110-109 Orlando lead with 6.7 seconds left.

The Lakers had one last opportunity, but Doncic couldn’t get a three-pointer off and instead passed to James.

James took an off-balanced shot that missed as time expired.

The good news Tuesday is the Lakers sawa more engaged Deandre Ayton, a more active big man, a more involved player.

Doncic passed the ball inside to Ayton in the midpost early in the third quarter and watched his big center turn and shot over a smaller defender. Ayton missed the shot, but he collected the rebound and scored on a layup.

Ayton had 17 points on six-for-eight shooting and six rebounds in the first half and 21 points for the game to go along with 13 rebounds.

Doncic went down late in the first quarter after getting poked in his eye by Mo Wager, a red mark developing beneath his eye. Doncic stayed down for a while before eventually getting up with one minute and 59 seconds left in the first.

Read more:Lakers are trying to unlock the greatness in Deandre Ayton

On the very next possession, Doncic drilled a three-pointer, a sign that his vision was clear.

He finished the first quarter with 11 points on four-for-eight shooting, four rebounds and four assists.

After the end of the first, Doncic went to the Lakers’ locker room, but he returned to the bench early in the second quarter.

Early in that second quarter, the Lakers displayed hustle and defense.

James ran down Anthony Black and blocked his shot off the backboard. Banchero got the rebound, but he had his shot blocked by a hustling Marcus Smart.

The Lakers started the third quarter by giving their fans a highlight moment.

It began with Ayton getting the defensive rebound and passing the ball to James, who then whipped the ball to Austin Reaves and filled the lane on the fast break.

Reaves threw a lob to James for a dunk, bringing the crowd to its feet.

The Lakers even opened a 12-point lead in the third quarter, their defense on point and their offense looking good.

But the Magic didn’t stop coming after the Lakers.

Orlando closed out the third quarter hard and got to within 80-79 entering the fourth.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

What sounds like a fever dream has become reality for the Welsh traditional club Swansea City: Snoop Dogg is part of the club. The US rapper has been investing in the English second division team since July 2025. 

For this reason, the rapper attended the match against Preston North End last night. You can marvel at how the fans welcomed Snoop Dogg here. 

The atmosphere was truly electric. The match between the two mid-table clubs ended 1-1. 

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.

Bayern Munich superstar Jamal Musiala is still finding his rhythm after a devestating injury from not too long ago, something that he admits to be struggling with. But, fear not Bayern fans, as it looks like Moose is back on track.

Behind the scenes, the Bayern star is following a daily extra training program designed by specialists and physiotherapists, all with one clear objective: a full return to his best level. Per a report captured by @iMiaSanMia, the 21-year-old is pushing to be fully available again as soon as possible. But there is no recklessness in the process. Every step of his workload is being carefully managed in close consultation with Bayern’s medical department. Musiala wants rhythm, not risk.

He is expected to feature more regularly in the starting lineup over the coming weeks as his condition improves. The bigger target, however, lies just ahead. Musiala has his sights set on being at peak sharpness for the Champions League Round of 16 in mid-March.

Immediately after that, another milestone awaits. The plan is for Musiala to make his return to the German national team at the end of March, marking his long-awaited international comeback. If everything goes to plan, the decisive phase of the season could arrive at exactly the right time.

Speaking pre-game inside Crypto.com Arena ahead of Tuesday’s game between the Magic and Lakers, coach Jamahl Mosley stressed the importance of his team defending at a high level and getting out in transition in order to cap off a four-game West Coast trip on a high note.

Playing in its third consecutive contest without Franz Wagner (left high ankle sprain injury maintenance) and Jalen Suggs (back strain), Orlando fought back-and-forth with Los Angeles and rallied late to win on the road.

Behind a combined 78 points from Paolo Banchero (game-high 36 points), Desmond Bane (22) and Wendell Carter Jr. (20), the Magic overcame a 12-point third-quarter deficit to capture a 110-109 victory against the Lakers.

It was Carter’s putback basket with 6.7 seconds left that served as the go-ahead bucket to help the Magic finish 3-1 on its four-game road trip on the West Coast. LeBron James missed a fadeaway 3-pointer in the final moments.

Despite 64 combined points from Luka Doncic (22 with 15 assists), James (21 points) and Deandre Ayton (21), the Lakers suffered their first loss of the season when leading after thee quarters (previously 25-0).

Having won six of its last eight games, the Magic (30-26) return to Kia Center on Thursday when they open a four-game homestand against the Rockets.

Banchero’s big night

Banchero did a little bit of everything posting 14 points, six rebounds and four assists in the first half alone. Although he missed six of his first 10 shots from the floor, he fought his way to the free throw line, hitting all six attempts there.

After notching 10 points in the second quarter, he followed it up with a huge 17-point third quarter, to reach 30-plus points for the seventh time this season.

Finishing with 10 rebounds and six assists, Banchero recorded his 18th game of the season with 20-plus points, 5-plus rebounds and 5-plus assists.

Wendell’s way

During one stretch midway through the first quarter, Carter scored nine straight points for the Magic, which mostly came in the paint.

He was active in the two-man game with Banchero, who recorded three of his four first-quarter assists off Carter’s baskets. Carter was efficient scoring 15 of Orlando’s first 35 points on 7 for 9 shooting before the break. His 15 first-half points were a personal season-high.

Carter was active on both ends by helping make decisions on offense and battling for the ball on the glass with 12 rebounds (nine defensive). His last shot, however, was his most important of the night.

Paint points

Entering Tuesday’s game, both Orlando and Los Angeles ranked in the bottom in paint defense, with the Magic allowing 51.3 points in the paint (21st league-wide) and the Lakers giving up slightly more (51.4).

Between drives from Carter, Banchero and Bane, 26 of Orlando’s first 35 points were scored in the paint when the Magic held a 34-26 advantage at the half.

On the other end, however, Ayton crushed the Magic in the paint, especially in the pick-and-roll game with Doncic and Austin Reaves. Ayton scored 12 of his 17 first-half points in the paint.

Ultimately, Orlando outscored Los Angeles 58-50 in the paint.

Difference from distance

Orlando missed its first nine shots from 3-point range and finished 7 for 29 (24%) for the night.

Second-year pro Tristan da Silva hit the team’s first two 3s, a pair late in the opening quarter. The forward posted 10 points in the first half and later hit a third 3-pointer in the fourth to finish with 13 points.

Meanwhile, Los Angeles had four different player hit at least two 3s when the team as a whole shot 9 for 29 (31%).

Rookie watch

First-round pick Jase Richardson saw five minutes of action in the second quarter but didn’t attempt a shot in limited action.

Second-round pick Noah Penda didn’t see the floor.

Jason Beede can be reached at jbeede@orlandosentinel.com

Morocco are weighing up a sensational move to hire Xavi Hernandez as doubts intensify over the future of head coach Walid Regragui just months before the 2026 World Cup, per The Athletic.

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has publicly denied that Regragui has left his post, but senior figures have sounded out potential replacements.

Former Barcelona midfielder and head coach Xavi is among the names being discussed.

No agreement has been reached, and sources close to the Spanish tactician suggest he would prefer to take on a new role after this summer’s tournament rather than immediately.

Regragui made history by guiding Morocco to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the furthest any African nation has progressed in the competition.

That remarkable run increased expectations at home, fuelled by significant investment in facilities and infrastructure over the past decade.

However, subsequent tournaments have failed to match that high.

Morocco exited at the last-16 stage of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and then fell agonisingly short in last month’s 2025 final, losing in extra time to Senegal on home soil.

Criticism of Regragui’s pragmatic style has grown louder, with pressure mounting despite his previous achievements.

Morocco have been drawn alongside Brazil, Scotland and Haiti at the expanded 2026 finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico, and the FRMF could make a coaching change before the tournament begins.

Xavi would be a bold appointment. The 46-year-old impressed during his stint as Barcelona head coach, winning the league and Spanish Super Cup while blooding many young players.

A World Cup winner with Spain in 2010, he enjoyed a glittering career at Barcelona, lifting four Champions League titles and eight La Liga crowns.

He moved into coaching with Al-Sadd and later returned to manage Barcelona between 2021 and 2024.

LOS ANGELES – LAFC defeated Real Espana 1-0 at BMO Stadium on February 24, 2026 and The Sporting Tribune’s Edwin So was there to capture the following TST Images.

Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune

LAFC forward Son Heung-Min (7) participates in warm up drills during a CONCACAF game between LAFC and Real Espana on Friday, February 24,2026 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles Calif

Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune

LAFC forward Son Heung-Min (7) dribbles the ball against Real Espana defenders during a CONCACAF game between LAFC and Real Espana on Friday, February 24,2026 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles Calif

Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune

Real Espana midfielder Jhow Benavidez (10) leaps to catch a ball during a CONCACAF game between LAFC and Real Espana on Friday, February 24,2026 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles Calif

Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune

Real Espana midfielder Darixon Vuelto (18) dribbles through two LAFC defendersduring a CONCACAF game between LAFC and Real Espana on Friday, February 24,2026 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles Calif

Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune

Real Espana goalkeeper Luis Lopez (22) makes a save during a CONCACAF game between LAFC and Real Espana on Friday, February 24,2026 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles Calif

Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune

LAFC forward Nathan Ordaz (27) pushes the ball and attempts a goal during a CONCACAF game between LAFC and Real Espana on Friday, February 24,2026 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles Calif

Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune

LAFC players celebrate a goal from Nikosi Tafari (91) during a CONCACAF game between LAFC and Real Espana on Friday, February 24,2026 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles Calif

Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune

LAFC forward Son Heung-Min (7) enters the pitch during a CONCACAF game between LAFC and Real Espana on Friday, February 24,2026 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles Calif

Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune

LAFC forward Denis Bouanga (99) lines up during team introductions during a CONCACAF game between LAFC and Real Espana on Friday, February 24,2026 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles Calif

Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune

LAFC starting eleven pose for photographers during a CONCACAF game between LAFC and Real Espana on Friday, February 24,2026 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles Calif

Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune

LAFC forward Son Heung-Min (7) controls the ball during a CONCACAF game between LAFC and Real Espana on Friday, February 24,2026 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles Calif

Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune

LAFC midfielder Mathieu Choiniere (66) battles for position during a CONCACAF game between LAFC and Real Espana on Friday, February 24,2026 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles Calif

Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune

Real Espana midfielder Jack Jean Baptiste (14) controls the ball throuigh traffic during a CONCACAF game between LAFC and Real Espana on Friday, February 24,2026 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles Calif

Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune

LAFC forward Denis Bouanga (99) gets tackled during a CONCACAF game between LAFC and Real Espana on Friday, February 24,2026 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles Calif

Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune

Real Espana midfielder Jhow Benavidez (10) gets tackled during a CONCACAF game between LAFC and Real Espana on Friday, February 24,2026 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles Calif

The 2026 league year is coming next month. It officially begins on March 11, with the legal negotiating period beginning on March 9.

The Arizona Cardinals have many roster decisions to make before then.

Leading up to the new league year, we will profile every player on the roster, go over what they did last season, what their contract status is and what they face in 2026.

Next up is wide receiver Zay Jones.

Zay Jones 2025 season

Jones was re-signed in 2025 for a second season with the team. After a disappointing eight-catch season in 2024, the 2025 season was also disappointing. He had only 12 catches for 183 yards in eight games, and then tore his Achilles against the Seattle Seahawks and missed the rest of the season.

Zay Jones contract status

Jones is scheduled to be an unrestricted free agent when the new league year begins on March 11.

Zay Jones offseason outlook

This is going to be a tough offeason for Jones. He will have to get healthy first, but after a total of 20 catches over two seasons, teams will not be banging down the door for his services.

He likely will land a league-minimum deal around training camp. As for the Cardinals, don't expect him back.

Get more Cardinals and NFL coverage from Cards Wire's Jess Root and others by listening to the latest on the Rise Up, See Red podcast. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube or Apple podcasts.

This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: Zay Jones' contract status and 2026 offseason outlook

When his Class 6A Division I bidistrict playoff game went to overtime Tuesday, Round Rock coach Travis Levie knew his team could handle the pressure. 

The Dragons had already played three games this season that went at least one extra session, including one less than three weeks ago, so what’s one more? 

In the fifth straight meeting between the schools in the playoffs, Round Rock outscored Lake Travis 10-5 in overtime for a 67-62 win at Eastside High School. 

“We just sat there on the bench before the overtime and talked about that, ‘Hey, all those other overtime games we’ve been in this season were for this situation,’” Levie said. “And our guys stepped up and made plays they needed to against an absolute great program and great coach.” 

The Dragons forced the extra session thanks to forward Teyo Barnett. 

Grabbing a missed Lake Travis free throw with 9 seconds left and Round Rock trailing 57-55, Barnett sprinted down the court for a coast-to-coast layup after weaving through a couple of defenders in the air in for the game's most important play. 

“As soon as the ball was (missed), I was like, ‘I have to go get that,’” Barnett said. “I was looking for (Max Lipnisky) or to see if anyone was down court to try and get an easy (basket). No one was there, so I figured I would just take it all the way.”

Barnett was fouled on the play but didn’t get to shoot the free throw after suffering “the worst cramps I’ve ever had” in both his legs. His substitute missed, and after a desperation shot at the buzzer by the Cavs, both Matthew Holland and Javeon Taylor had three points to spur Round Rock in overtime. 

“I’m just happy we won,” Barnett said. “We’ve got a lot of seniors, so being able to get them another game made my week. ... After the game was the loudest and happiest I’ve ever seen this team.”

Neither team led by more than six in a back-and-forth contest where there were 19 lead changes. 

Lipnisky dominated the second half for Round Rock and kept Lake Travis from pulling away when it seemed the Cavs had momentum. He scored 20 of his game-high 25 points after the break, including hitting four 3-pointers in a 5-minute stretch late in the third quarter and early in the fourth. 

“I was feeling it even after missing my first three 3-pointers,” said Lipnisky, a sophomore who could be one of the area’s better players the next two years. “That was the kind of night it was for me mentally. I was going out and attacking my shot, and that was the mindset coming in.” 

After Lake Travis (25-9) won three of the previous four playoff meetings, Lipnisky noted this result means a little extra for the Dragons.  

“This was more than just the first round; this was a revenge game for us, especially the seniors,” he said. 

The teams will have to make runs to the regional final to meet next year in the postseason. They were placed in the same district in UIL realignment and will play twice in the regular season. 

But Round Rock (24-8) holds bragging rights for now, thanks to its overtime excellence.

“Coach just told us he trusts us (before the overtime),” Lipnisky said. “He said to keep it rolling and give whatever gas we had left. He thought we would (win the game), and we did.” 

Will Slyker poured in 24 points to lead Lake Travis.

Scoring

Round Rock: Max Lipnisky 25, Teyo Barnett 15, Matthew Holland 9, Aaron Epstein 9, Cole Cassidy 6, Javeon Taylor 3

Lake Travis: Will Slyker 24, Alex Jacob 12, Kade Shaver 11, Aaron Mathis 7, Tate Tapken 7

Manchester United are inching closer to keeping one of their leaders at the club beyond the current season.

Casemiro’s expected departure will come as a big blow, both on and off the pitch, considering the experience and winning mentality he brought to the squad.

Tom Heaton, another of the leaders in the group, could also be let go. To make matters worse, the contract of Harry Maguire was also up in the summer, with INEOS dilly-dallying over an extension.

Naturally, plenty of clubs were eyeing the soon-to-be free agent, with a few even attempting an audacious January raid.

Contract update

Michael Carrick held firm, and blocked all exits, but with the co-owners yet to agree a new deal, it seemed like the former club captain would be on his way out.

But according to Teamtalk, there has been a breakthrough in talks between the club and the defender.

INEOS wanted the Englishman to take a pay cut, and as things stand, that is likely to happen. Also, the new deal will be a short-term one, likely to be for a year, which suits INEOS.

“Sources have highlighted positive developments in talks between Maguire and Man Utd.

Harry Maguire needs to stay

“Sources close to the situation, describe “positive signs” that a compromise could be reached, likely involving a wage reduction from his current £180,000 per week and a short-term extension of perhaps one additional season.

“They are the ideal terms for United, given we’ve all seen how quickly players deep into their thirties can decline.

“With Casemiro set to depart, Maguire’s experience and recent solid performances have bolstered his case to remain, earning support from the dressing room and interim manager Michael Carrick.”

Harry Maguire has been in top form for the caretaker head coach, and his teammates all want him to stay. So this will please both Carrick and the players.

Feature image Shaun Botterill via Getty Images

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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

Flying Goal 🪶

This beautiful sequence comes to us from Turkey!

Bodø, it's crazy! 🤯

The 2025-26 saga of the Norwegian club Bodø/Glimt in the Champions League will go down in history. Enough to inspire future newcomers to the competition!

Racism: The FFF is angry ✊

A victim of racism on social media after receiving a red card last weekend against Burnley (1-1), Wesley Fofana can count on the strong support of the French Football Federation...

Speaking of racism...

"If it's true, I cannot accept it." Awaiting the verdict on the Prestianni case (suspicions of racism), his Belgian teammate Dodi Lukebakio already warns: he will not be lenient in case of guilt. It's said.

A Luxury Signing at OL ✍️

This reinforcement was unexpected! Olivier Magne, former captain of the French national rugby team (89 caps), joins Olympique Lyonnais as a mental coach.

The Must-Sees from Yesterday 🍿

- OM victim of a major cyberattack: the club communicates

- Kylian Mbappé might miss the return playoff against Benfica

- C1: the incredible feat of Bodo/Glimt who wins again and eliminates Inter!

TV Schedule 📺

14:00: Youth League / Paris SG – HJK (CANAL+ FOOT)

16:00: Youth League / Real Madrid – Chelsea (CANAL+ FOOT)

18:45: Atalanta – Dortmund (CANAL+ FOOT)

20:00: Najma – Al-Nassr (DAZN / YouTube)

21:00: Juventus – Galatasaray (CANAL+ SPORT 360)

21:00: PSG – Monaco (CANAL+)

21:00: Real Madrid – Benfica (CANAL+ FOOT)

21:00: Stoke – Oxford (beIN SPORTS 4)

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.

Ryan Woodman missed out on the Six Nations, but the promising Dragons forward has been backed to be in the Wales squad at next year's World Cup.

The 22-year-old blind-side flanker, who can also play lock, is on Steve Tandy's radar and trained with the Test squad last month.

He is a leading option if Wales need reinforcements for Ireland and Italy after losing flanker Taine Plumtree and lock Rhys Davies to injury.

Dragons defence coach Dale MacLeod is confident Woodman will make an international breakthrough soon, and tips him to be mixing it with the world's best in Australia next year.

"He is a talent and I have no doubt that he will be in the group that goes to the World Cup," said MacLeod.

• Cardiff coach Van Zyl holds talks with Benetton
• Murchie to join Wales as defence coach in summer
• 'Life in Welsh rugby' but stats show issues remain

The former Wales Under-20s captain will feature for Dragons against Benetton at Rodney Parade on Saturday (17:30 GMT).

"It's really important that we manage him and don't get him there too early," said MacLeod about the forward's international ambitions.

"He got the opportunity train with Wales and it's so good when young men get a small taste of it.

"I think it's critical that they get a taste rather than getting thrown in and it was great for him because he is a super talent.

"I believe he has the attributes to become world class, it's just how we manage, grow and develop him.

"Steve and his coaching group are doing a great job and I love how they are growing the next lot of players."

Woodman made his Dragons debut in 2023 and has made 42 appearances.

He has featured in 12 of 15 games this season, showing his versatility with two starts in the second row.

"Aerially he is outstanding, whether at the line-out or catching high balls. On the edges he has a good skill set and is growing his collisions and physicality," said Macleod.

"Being a tall lad that will take a bit of time, but he's right across the game whether in defence or attack. He adds so much value on both sides of the ball."

The Cleveland Cavaliers emphatically got back to winning ways Tuesday, coasting to a 109-94 victory over the New York Knicks as their recent star signing James Harden scored 20 points.

The Cavs took the lead barely a minute into the game with an Evan Mobley three-pointer, and never gave it up in a thoroughly comfortable night for the red-hot Ohio franchise.

Former NBA Most Valuable Player Harden, who was brought in from the Los Angeles Clippers this month, has never won a championship despite being one of the most decorated players in the league.

That was a key factor in his move to the seemingly playoff-bound Cavs, where he has only suffered one loss across seven games, and "The Beard" excelled again, providing four assists against the Knicks.

"We're working to build something special, and each game is an opportunity to get better," said Harden. "Tonight was a good step for us."

It was a return to form after their seven-game winning streak was snapped Sunday by the defending champions Oklahoma City Thunder.

Harden, 36, has given Cleveland another strong offensive threat alongside Donovan Mitchell, who led the scoring with 23 points.

The victory was underpinned by a powerful defensive performance, that saw the Knicks' star man Jalen Brunson restricted to 20 points.

"Tonight it was a team effort, and it's been like that since I've been here. That's one of the beauties about this team, any guy can get it going," added Harden.

They drew level on 37 wins and 22 losses with the Knicks -- third in the Eastern Conference -- who were poor with their shooting accuracy, making just 11 points in a shocking third quarter.

Elsewhere, Anthony Edwards poured in 34 points as the Minnesota Timberwolves earned a hard-fought 124-121 win against the Portland Trail Blazers.

Edwards -- MVP at this month's All-Star Game -- managed 25 of his points in an explosive first half.

The Charlotte Hornets beat the Chicago Bulls 131-99, with rookie Kon Knueppel racing to his 200th three-pointer.

Aged 20, the Hornets prodigy is the fastest player to reach that mark in NBA history, requiring just 58 games.

Tyrese Maxey sank 32 points plus nine rebounds and eight assists as the Philadelphia 76ers beat the Indiana Pacers 135-114.

The Pacers reached last year's NBA Finals, but have struggled badly this campaign, sinking to the very bottom of the East.

Congolese forward Jonathan Kuminga scored 27 points on his debut for the Atlanta Hawks in a 119-98 win over the Washington Wizards.

The Western Conference-leading Thunder racked up another win, seeing off the Toronto Raptors 116-107.

And the Boston Celtics consolidated their grip on second spot in the East with a 97-81 win over the Phoenix Suns.

amz/jfx

Cameron Brink has been grabbing the spotlight thanks to her micro minidress. The athlete’s game-day look is one-of-a-kind, proving she is a diva as well as a talented sportswoman. For the event, she wore a denim outfit.

Cameron Brink arrives in a micro minidress that looks like a jacket for game day

Take a look at the latest photos of Brink arriving in a micro minidress that looks like a jacket for game day.

HEAT CHECK ? pic.twitter.com/bVoSw2w3JB

— Unrivaled Basketball (@Unrivaledwbb) February 22, 2026

Unrivaled Basketball shared Brink’s stunning look from game day on Instagram. For the occasion, she donned a denim short dress with a black belt. The professional basketball player paired the outfit with leather black boots and a matching clutch.

Moreover, her retro sunglasses and hoop earrings complement the look perfectly. Brink chose to tie her blonde hair with bright makeup, with the red lipstick standing out.

Originally reported by Ritika Singh for RealityTea.

The post Cameron Brink’s Micro Minidress Passes as a Big Denim Jacket on Game Day appeared first on theFashionSpot.

In 2019, the Los Angeles Clippers were cruising toward a routine win over the Charlotte Hornets at Staples Center. Lou Williams and Montrezl Harrell were cooking, and at some point the lead extended to a 20-point margin.

But the moment that would travel furthest that night had nothing to do with basketball.

Clad in Gucci, Floyd Mayweather Jr. — sitting close enough he could have jabbed a Hornet if he wanted — turned and smirked when he spotted Manny Pacquiao right behind him.

Pacquiao stopped, smiled at him and then dapped his old rival.

One camera caught the interaction from point-blank range and the clip was soon slowed down, mythologized, and replayed like a deleted scene from a saga that never quite reached its final act.

Four years earlier, the welterweight greats produced 4.7 million pay-per-view buys by engaging in one of the most meaningful sporting events of all time. Mayweather won convincingly, and has fought professionally just once since. Pacquiao, now age 46, improbably continues to look threatening in the ring.

That night courtside in Los Angeles, Pacquiao met someone else, too — someone who would help shape his business, and everything that followed.

Enter Jas Mathur, the CEO of Pacquiao Promotions and a pivotal figure in finally getting their second fight across the line.

"This rematch has been talked about for a long time," Mathur told Uncrowned on Tuesday, one day after Netflix's announcement that it is airing the spectacle live, worldwide, on Sept. 19.

Mathur said "many deals" for a Mayweather rematch were put forth to Manny Pacquiao Promotions since their chance meeting in 2019, but "nothing was ever serious," with too many "middle men trying to skim off of it, twist and turn words, or just block the deal because they wanted to be the ones to present it."

It took the right performance — and the right platform — to finally change that.

The right performance was Pacquiao’s comeback in 2025, when he rolled back the clock to put a pace on Mario Barrios the then-champion was only able to contain in the latter part of their WBC title fight.

While Pacquiao fell controversially short of making history as the second-oldest world champion ever in boxing, Mayweather, 49, watched July's majority draw with interest. As did Netflix.

"Netflix wouldn't want him [this year] if the performance [against Barrios] wasn't good,” Mathur said. "Floyd saw Manny come back and obviously got the itch himself. In Floyd's mind, he's 50-0, and one of the greatest boxers ever … but so is Manny.

"Netflix feels this is going to be their biggest event in sports history, and it's going to open up whole new markets internationally."

Regardless, there were still obstacles in dragging the rematch across the finish line, and the first was non-negotiable: A pro fight, or nothing at all.

"Manny had no interest in doing an exhibition with Floyd," Mathur said. "Either [Mayweather's undefeated record] is on the line, or there was no deal."

There was no deal more than a decade ago when drug-testing continually torpedoed the initial conversations around the first Mayweather-Pacquiao fight, “but there’s no issue” on drug-testing this time, per Mathur, with Mayweather’s preference being the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA).

Mayweather also experienced licensing issues when he had to take a Logan Paul exhibition in 2021 to Miami after the Nevada Athletic Commission (NAC) refused to sanction it as a Las Vegas show. But Pacquiao isn’t Paul, and the NAC “have no concerns whatsoever,” said Mathur.

"It's a sanctioned fight and the date's already reserved with [NAC]. They're both cleared and have had their medicals done."

Harry How via Getty Images

Netflix, he says, is what made all the difference.

"One of the biggest factors in it being a smoother negotiation this time around than last is because it's Netflix,” he said. “A partnership that gives us access to 325 million-plus global subscribers, and international exposure."

Add Las Vegas' famed Sphere to the equation, which showcased its potential as a blockbuster fight venue with UFC 306 in late 2024, and you have "a great venue for entertainment … that allows Netflix to show off the quality of the production of what they can do, amplifying everything on another level."

As the fight is not until September, both boxers have been linked with warm-up exhibitions.

But while Mayweather appears set to box a glorified spar with Mike Tyson in April, it's unlikely Pacquiao will engage his former training partner Ruslan Provodnikov in a previously-reported exhibition bout.

"That fight is not confirmed, and there's a breach,” Mathur said. “So we're in the process of dealing with it.

“Is there a possibility of a Manny exhibition prior to Mayweather? Yes. Do I personally feel it's going to be that fight? No."

Whatever warmup bout Pacquiao lands, it won't be one that risks compromising what comes next. Those sorts of challenges will come after — whether it’s a world title shot or something else.

Pacquiao himself told Uncrowned last year he intends to be active in this surprising late-career run. And though he was seemingly screwed out of a win against Barrios — which would have broken his own record as the oldest welterweight champion in boxing history — he still has world title aspirations.

"If the opportunity presents itself, he definitely wants to [fight for a championship]," Mathur said. "There was the whole thing of him fighting [WBA welterweight world champion] Rolly [Romero] in a pro fight — that's something that can always get done at some point."

That opportunity vanishes, though, with a loss to Mayweather.

But for Pacquiao and Mathur, there’s only one result in mind. They want that win in September so they can force Mayweather to experience something he's never had to previously consider: Defeat.

Where to watch NFL Combine 2026: Full daily schedule, times, TV channel, live streams for NFL Draft prospect workouts originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The NFL Draft is still close to two months away, but some fan bases have been looking ahead to the draft since December or earlier. After a long wait, the NFL Combine will offer the best look yet at the top players available in April.

While it wouldn't be surprising to see some of the elite-level talent atop big boards sit out of drills at the combine, the weekend annually helps some prospects build their stock. Others, meanwhile, can raise more questions than answers about their NFL potential.

It was a year ago that South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori put on a show at the NFL Combine, proving to be every bit the athletic freak many were hoping to see. While it wasn't enough to push him into the first round, his athleticism wasn't worth overlooking: Emmanwori helped the Seahawks win a Super Bowl and looks like yet another young building block for their loaded defense.

The next Emmanwori could announce himself to the football world in Indianapolis this weekend.

Here's what you need to know to watch the NFL Combine, including TV channel and live streams. 

What channel is the NFL Combine on? 

• TV channel: NFL Network
• Live stream: Fubo

The 2026 NFL Combine workouts and drills will air live on the NFL Network and can be streamed with Fubo, which offers a free trial.

The on-field portion of the NFL Combine will again be held at Lucas Oil Stadium, the home of the Indianapolis Colts. The events begin with media availabilities for coaches and general managers on Tuesday, and players from each position group are also set to speak to the media the day before their on-field workouts. 

NFL Combine schedule 2026

The 2026 NFL Combine's on-field drills get underway on Thursday, Feb. 26 with the defensive linemen, linebackers and kickers, with the bulk of the skill position groups set to take the field on Saturday.

Thursday, Feb. 26

Friday, Feb. 27

Saturday, Feb. 28

Sunday, March 1

Want to have your say on all things Sunderland? Drop us a line and we’ll publish your views! RokerReport@yahoo.co.uk

Dear Roker Report,

I have been reading with interest the comments regarding the crowd during certain matches at the Stadium of Light, and most of the comments are bang on the button.

I don’t know what it is, but we seem to become a bit fatigued as the season wears on.

I think we maybe got caught up in the hype about how brilliant we are and once the home record went against Liverpool, we fell somewhat flat. We were noticeably unremarkable against Fulham — disrespect meant whatsoever, but had we been playing Arsenal at home after Liverpool, I have no doubt the rafters would’ve been coming off. However, we have to do our bit on the terraces.

Let’s not forget that the team is made up largely of kids, albeit they’re cracking players on their day.

They thrive on the support we give them, and if we are flat, they will unfortunately feed off that. We’re still not mathematically safe and we need to focus on that and forget all the nonsensical talk of Europe. If it happens, wonderful, but let’s get realistic first; let’s all get our second wind and make it as uncomfortable as we possibly can for Brighton.

For the first time since Reidy was here, I genuinely believe we’re all in this together. We have to get this team across the line, and we need to be cheering every tackle, every ball won and every pass made, so let’s frighten Brighton to death.

We can do it. We all know we have the most intimidating atmosphere in the Premier League when we are all up for it. Let’s get at them and make it known we’re all back at full force.

Peter Milton

Ed’s Note [Phil]: Hi, Peter. Thank you for your letter.

You raise some very interesting points and I do agree that against Fulham in particular, we did look a bit jaded and disjointed — a far cry from the team we’ve been for much of the season.

Was that due to fatigue, tactical issues or just a lack of confidence? It’s difficult to say and it was a very disappointing day all round, but I do think the fact that we have two challenging away games before we return to the Stadium of Light could be beneficial.

If we can find the solutions to our troubles on the road and pick up positive results against Bournemouth and Leeds, the visit of Brighton will take on a different feel altogether and hopefully everyone will be bang up for it. There’s still a lot for us to play for this season and I hope that message is being reiterated by Granit Xhaka and Régis Le Bris.

---

Dear Roker Report,

What’s with all the negativity?

We’re fine. Stop being ridiculous.

Some of our fans are in danger of spoiling this season.

Gerald Fowler

Ed’s Note [Phil]: Hi Gerald. Thank you for getting in touch.

I agree that there have been some slightly over-the-top reactions to recent results and performances, but at the same time, it’s fair to say that the Lads aren’t hitting the standards they’ve previously set for themselves and that we need to fix the issues we’re currently facing.

It’s not a crisis but it is a slump, and we need to turn it around if 2025/2026 is to end on the same kind of positive note on which it started back in August.

---

International breaks can sometimes feel like an interruption to the rhythm of a club season, but for Sunderland Women, this one serves as a powerful reminder of who they are becoming. Seven players have been called up across four nations, spanning senior World Cup qualifiers and youth international fixtures. Not one of these selections is unexpected. Every player involved is already a recognised figure within their national programme, and their call-ups reflect continuity, trust and the calibre of footballer Sunderland now attract and develop.

For a club that has rebuilt itself with patience and purpose, this international window is not merely a point of pride. It is a statement about Sunderland’s trajectory. The squad is no longer a collection of promising Championship players quietly working under the radar. It is a group whose influence stretches across continents, whose talent is acknowledged at the highest levels, and whose presence on the international stage feels entirely natural.

Katie Kitching’s involvement with New Zealand is a perfect example. Her selection for the Football Ferns’ World Cup qualifiers is not a surprise, nor is it a sudden breakthrough. Kitching has been part of New Zealand’s plans for some time, and her performances for Sunderland have only reinforced her standing. She has been one of the club’s most consistent and influential players since she arrived, combining technical quality with intelligence and a relentless work ethic. Her ability to link midfield and attack, to carry the ball with purpose, and to dictate tempo has made her indispensable on Wearside.

For New Zealand, she offers versatility and composure in high-pressure fixtures. For Sunderland, her international involvement is another layer in her development, exposing her to different tactical demands and the intensity of knockout-style football. Her call-up is not a reward for a purple patch; it is a continuation of her established role within a national team preparing for a crucial qualifying campaign.

The Republic of Ireland contingent reflects a group of players who are already firmly embedded in their national setup, each at different stages of their international journey. Jamie Finn, Grace Moloney and Marissa Sheva are all familiar figures within the Irish squad, and their call-ups for World Cup qualifiers are entirely consistent with their standing.

Finn, with more than twenty caps to her name, has long been a trusted figure for Ireland. Her versatility, tactical intelligence and composure have made her a reliable presence in green, just as they have in red and white. At Sunderland she has been a model of consistency, adapting seamlessly to different roles and offering a level of maturity that anchors the team around her. Her selection is not news; it is simply the continuation of a career that has already earned significant international respect.

Moloney’s inclusion reflects her growing importance within the Irish goalkeeping group. With nine caps, she is still in the earlier stages of her international career, but she has quickly established herself as a dependable option. Her performances for Sunderland have shown her authority and shot-stopping qualities that translate naturally to the international stage. Her call-up is a recognition of her upward trajectory and the trust she has earned in recent windows.

Sheva, meanwhile, brings twenty caps’ worth of experience to the Irish forward line. Her energy, directness and relentless work rate have made her a valuable asset for Ireland, just as they have for Sunderland. She is a player who stretches defences, presses intelligently and offers versatility across the front line. Her involvement in the qualifiers is entirely expected, reflecting her established role within the squad and the consistency of her contributions.

Wales have also turned to Sunderland for their World Cup qualifiers, selecting Rhiannon Roberts and Mared Griffiths. Roberts is one of the most experienced internationals in the squad, a player whose leadership and defensive intelligence have been central to Wales’ progress in recent years. Her presence at Sunderland has already proven invaluable, offering guidance to younger players and stability in key moments. Her call-up is a continuation of a distinguished international career, and her performances in the WSL2 have shown that she remains a player of significant quality.

Griffiths’ selection comes at a very different moment in her club journey. Having only just joined Sunderland on loan from Manchester United in January 2026, she has not yet made her debut for the club. Her call-up, therefore, is not a reflection of her time on Wearside but of her established standing within the Welsh national setup. A talented and composed midfielder, Griffiths has been steadily building her international profile, and her involvement in Wales’ qualifiers is a natural continuation of that trajectory. For Sunderland, her arrival and immediate international involvement underline the calibre of player the club is now able to attract.

New loan signing, Caragh Hamilton has also been called up for Northern Ireland. Interestingly enough on their announcement graphic as a ‘forward’ which surprise a few fans myself included. Although she is listed as a defender at club level, Northern Ireland have frequently used her higher up the pitch as a midfielder and winger, where her energy, ball carrying and pressing suit the demands of international football.

Hamilton’s inclusion in the Northern Ireland squad for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 qualifiers against Switzerland and Turkiye is a deserved recognition of her consistency and experience at international level. Hamilton has been a senior Northern Ireland international since 2012 and has accumulated 53 caps and 7 goals for her country, making her one of the squad’s most seasoned players. Her versatility, experience and tactical intelligence make her an important asset as Northern Ireland look to build momentum in their World Cup qualifying campaign.

Mared Griffiths’ call up to the Wales senior squad for their upcoming fixtures is another important step in the rise of one of the most exciting young midfielders in British football. Still only eighteen, Griffiths has already made four senior appearances for Wales and scored once, building on an impressive youth international record that includes fifteen caps and three goals for the under seventeen side and six caps and one goal for the under nineteen team.

She plays primarily as a midfielder for Wales, operating with intelligence, energy and a natural ability to carry the ball through tight spaces. Her recent performances at club level, including her sensational long range goal on her Sunderland debut, have only strengthened her reputation as a player with enormous potential. Wales have used her in central and advanced midfield roles, trusting her creativity and composure in possession. Her ongoing development at Sunderland, combined with her growing international experience, makes her an increasingly important figure for Wales as they build towards future qualification campaigns.

Completing the list is Ella West, called up to Scotland’s Under-19 squad for a series of friendlies. While youth international fixtures may not carry the same weight as senior qualifiers, they are crucial in shaping the careers of young players. West has been on Scotland’s radar for some time, and her selection is a continuation of her involvement at youth level. For her, this is an opportunity to test herself against high-quality opposition, to experience the demands of international football, and to continue her development in an environment designed to challenge and elevate young talent.

Her call-up also reflects Sunderland’s long-standing commitment to youth development. The club has a proud history of producing players who go on to represent their countries, and West’s inclusion continues that tradition. She is a player with significant potential, and her international involvement will only enrich her understanding of the game.

Taken together, these call-ups paint a picture of a squad that is both diverse and deeply talented. Sunderland Women are no longer a team quietly rebuilding in the Championship; they are a club whose players are shaping international campaigns, influencing World Cup qualifiers, and representing their nations with pride. The breadth of call-ups, spanning New Zealand, Ireland, Wales and Scotland, speaks to the global reach of the squad and the quality that runs through it.

For the club, this international break is a moment to reflect on the progress made in recent years. Sunderland have built a squad that blends experience with youth, international pedigree with domestic promise. The players called up are not fringe figures or occasional squad members; they are central to their national teams’ plans. That level of recognition is not accidental. It is the result of careful recruitment, strong coaching and a culture that encourages players to grow, compete and aspire.

There is also a practical benefit. Players who compete internationally return with sharpened instincts, heightened confidence and a deeper understanding of the game. They bring back lessons learned from facing different styles, different systems and different pressures. That experience filters into the squad, raising standards and enriching the team’s tactical awareness.

Of course, international duty also brings challenges. Travel, fatigue and the risk of injury are always considerations. But for Sunderland, the positives far outweigh the concerns. Having so many players involved in international football enhances the club’s reputation, attracts new talent and reinforces the message that Sunderland is a place where careers can flourish.

As the league resumes, the returning internationals will bring with them the momentum of representing their countries. They will return to a squad that has grown in confidence and cohesion, ready to push forward in the WSL2. And they will carry with them the pride of having worn their national colours, knowing that they are part of a club that supports and celebrates their ambitions.

This international break is not a pause for Sunderland Women. It is a milestone, a marker of how far the club has come and a glimpse of where it is heading. With players competing on the world stage, the future looks bright, ambitious and full of possibility. And when they return to Wearside, they will do so not just as Sunderland players, but as representatives of nations, carrying experience that will only strengthen the team’s journey ahead.

Spurs wily manager Bill Nicholson watched from the Elland Road stands as Sunderland blew Leeds away in a first-half display of skill, pace and power.

With his Spurs side making the journey to Roker Park the following Saturday in the 6th Round of the FA Cup and with the Black Cats having already seen off Arsenal and Liverpool as well as Norwich, Nicholson had plenty to think about if his dream of being the first manager to steer a side to the double of league and FA Cup winners was to materialise.

He would not have known whether to laugh or cry upon hearing the news after the game that Sunderland’s hat-trick hero Ralphy Goodchild (who could have easily scored five let alone three), would probably not be selected for the cup tie if young maestro Willie McPheat had recovered from his ankle injury. The Spurs boss must have wondered how good McPheat was, given Goodchild had a magnificent game and took his three goals with some style.

Both Leeds and Sunderland were hovering just below Liverpool, Ipswich, Middlesbrough and Sheffield United who were jostling for the two promotion spots.

Leeds had beaten Sunderland at Roker Park earlier in the season when two former players — player/coach Don Revie and Colin Grainger (the Singing Winger) — had inspired a two-goal half-time lead that Sunderland could not claw back as they lost a nip-and-tuck game by three goals to two.

Revie was not fit for this game, but Colin Grainger would be playing, alongside future Scotland captain Billy Bremner and future England centre-half Jack Charlton (who would go on to spend his entire playing career with Leeds from 1950-1973).

Sunderland’s results had improved as the season had progressed and the side (especially the defence) became more settled. Injuries in the forward line meant that apart from nineteen-year-old Ralphy Goodchild coming in for his first game of the season for McPheat, eighteen-year-old John Dillon retained his place on the wing for the experienced Jack Overfield, who was still making his way back after injury. The young Scot had made his debut against Middlesbrough in September of this season and had taken his chance in mid-January with Overfield’s injury, getting better game on game to the point of which it was not a foregone conclusion that Overfield would start once fit again!

The game got off to a rip-roaring start (if you were a Sunderland fan). Sunderland ripped Leeds apart in a first half that had the Black Cats positively purring and the Peacocks running around like frantic chickens.

Goodchild might have scored in the very first minute as he missed a ‘sitter’ only a few yards out and with only goalkeeper Humphries to beat.

With Stan Anderson and Jim McNab pulling the strings Sunderland took the lead with a well-worked goal on four minutes. Dillon found Goodchild with an inside pass, he squared it to Ian Lawther whose powerful shot deflected off Charlton on the way into the net.

Two minutes later Lawther charging down the left wing slid a pass to McNab who managed to stab the ball forward to Goodchild as he was tackled. ‘Ralphy’ was on this in a flash and hit an accurate low shot past the despairing dive of Humphries to take a two-goal lead.

It only took four further minutes for Lawther to feed Goodchild racing into the box. His powerful shot cannoned off the post and into the back of the net. Three goals in eight minutes was devastating football, Leeds responded by giving Jack Charlton licence to roam upfield but this only served to create more space for the eager Sunderland forwards.

On twenty-four minutes Leeds did pull a goal back. Colin Nelson was having a right old tussle with Colin Grainger (honours even at the end of this game). Nelson was harshly adjudged to have fouled Grainger just outside the box. The singing winger hit the right note with Leeds fans as he got up to blast the free-kick at goal. His shot hit an outstretched Nelson leg but fell kindly to Smith lurking three yards out, who prodded the ball past Wakeham in the Sunderland goal.

For the next quarter of an hour there was no further scoring, but the Lads created two very good chances that were spurned and Jack Charlton had a powerful header well saved by Wakeham. Had this gone in it could have made the second half quite interesting to say the least. It was Sunderland though who scored just before half-time to put the game almost out of Leeds reach. This goal started with a great pass out of defence from McNab to Lawther. The Belfast-born centre-forward fed the ball on to Goodchild, who speeding forward, beat his marker and slammed the ball past Humphries for a first-half hat-trick.

After such a devastating first half, the second half was a tamer affair. Sunderland with one eye on the big game to come the following weekend contained Leeds to the extent that it was not until the eighty-third minute that a shot was registered on Wakeham’s goal. It was a very good shot from Billy Bremner from twenty yards out and did angle past Wakeham for United’s second goal, but it did not affect the result of this game.

Alf Greenly, writing in the Journal, was full of praise for the team’s performance. Claiming the first-half performance would have demolished better teams than Leeds, who for forty-five minutes were completely outclassed. Stan Anderson and Jim McNab were singled out for the effective manner in which they broke up Leeds attacks and kept feeding their forward line with a good range of long and short passes. There were honourable mentions for Len Ashurst and his total domination of Leeds winger Francis and Colin Nelson’s battle with Colin Grainger. Greenly of course donated much print to the hat-trick hero Ralphy Goodchild, describing him as “the happiest man in the Sunderland party”. Greenly went on to praise the attitude of the team in general and Goodchild in particular who he explained did not expect to be playing in the big cup tie against Spurs the following weekend but had no complaints! In fact, Ralphy anticipated (correctly) that he would be turning out at Barrow in the North Regional League for Sunderland reserves rather than a packed Roker Park against the best team in the top tier!

Sunderland went on to play an historic cup tie against Spurs the following week in front of 61,000 fans. Willie McPheat not only returned from injury for this game, but scored the equaliser that prompted Spurs captain Danny Blanchflower to say “I have never known a crowd atmosphere like the one here at Roker. I could not hear myself think let alone shout instructions. We were very relieved to hear the final whistle and to still be in the competition…..It was almost as if they sucked the ball into the net”.

1960/61 saw Spurs historically do the double that season for the very first time, Bill Nicholson would acknowledge the closest his team came to failing that season was in the cup tie at Roker Park.

Meanwhile on a field far away (in Barrow) Ralphy Goodchild would not know that his hat-trick for Sunderland at Elland Road would be his last game for the Lads. Despite a very healthy 21 goals in 45 appearances he was transferred to Brighton in May 1961. He went on to score 44 goals in 163 games for the Seagulls between May 1961 and June 1966 having helped Albion win promotion from the fourth division. He then returned to the North East spending a season with York (1966/67) and a brief cameo with Darlington in 1967/68.

Sunderland finished the 1960/61 season in sixth position, their challenge fading in the final ten games which saw five defeats and a draw. Leeds faded badly and finished in fourteenth position. Both teams would eventually fight out a titanic struggle for promotion and the second division title in 1963/64.

It seems to have been a case of what might have been for the likable Goodchild who passed away aged seventy-two in 2011. Reflecting on his career in a Northern Echo article in 2005 Ralphy was humble and generous about his career. He acknowledged Willie McPheat as a very good player and emphasised he was “still very proud to have played for Sunderland”.

Division Two (25.02.1961) — Elland Road (15,100)

Leeds United 2 – 4 Sunderland

Goal-scorers – Lawther 4 mins; Goodchild 6, 8 & 40 mins.

Smith 24 mins; Bremner 83 mins.

Leeds – Humphries; Jones; Hair; Cameron; Charlton; Goodwin; Francis; Smith; McCole; Bremner; Grainger.

Sunderland – Wakeham; Nelson; Ashurst; Anderson; Hurley; McNab; Hooper; Fogarty; Lawther; Goodchild; Dillon.

Sunderland’s second home loss of the season came against Fulham in what was a pretty terrible spectacle. However, the reaction to the loss – and not the poor performances on the pitch – are arguably the main talking point from a disappointing weekend.

The 3-1 loss to Fulham was a poor watch. Two dismal performances came from two teams who showed precious little quality for much of the game. Fulham eked out a win from being the more clinical of the two teams, but 4 goals flattered what was perhaps the worst game of football we’ve seen at the SoL this season.

Yet despite the poorness of the performance, some perspective is necessary. Sunderland sit 12th in the table with 9 wins, 9 draws, and 9 losses – perfectly balanced, some might say. This is, by no means, an awful place to be, and whilst this predicament is less than ideal considering our excellent start to the season, we need to remain level-headed in our expectations.

Sunderland have exceeded expectations all season. We have played well and deserve every one of the 36 points we have won so far. Whilst there are doubts creeping in from the fanbase regarding our defensive acumen of late, it’s important to stick behind the team and trust that we will return to the form we showed at the start of the season.

It was saddening, therefore, to see people streaming out of the ground well before the whistle – especially considering how well we’ve played in every other game at home this season. For a club who have a penchant for scoring last-minute goals and whose slogan is literally ‘Til the End’, it was frustrating to see the stands almost empty by the time the final whistle eventually sounded.

As the club’s recent season ticket renewal drive has highlighted, the home crowd this season has been vital to our impressive season. This showed at times during the Fulham game: this crowd is loud and brutal and a genuine fear for teams visiting.

But it needs to be present for the entire game. These lads on the pitch are only human, and watching thousands of fans stream out after conceding a third goal doesn’t bode well for the confidence on the pitch.

Many fans will argue with this sentiment. I’m sure many will tell me that as loyal fans they felt let down by the performance and wanted their frustrations acknowledged. I can understand this, but I can’t agree with it. Whilst it is fair to feel let down and frustrated by a game where we were so off the pace from our normal form, it hardly feels fair on the team that the ground empties after one poor performance.

Interviews from Ballard and O’Nien support this notion. As a club, we knew we were in for a tough ride at times in our first season back. The players and playing staff have admitted as much themselves, but it is to their testament – and ours as a loyal fanbase – that these big losses have come few and far between this season.

Sunderland will bounce back. Xhaka’s return will make certain of that, but it is important to remain strong and as committed as ever. Once again, the lads are human. Form is temporary and will fluctuate; that’s natural, but it will be much easier for the lads to regain with the full voice and confidence of the 12th man behind them.

Continuing on the vein of humanity, it has been tough to see the horrendous abuse Mundle has received in the light of Sunday’s loss. It is tough to see a young player scapegoated, yet a worrying trend has begun – especially with a culture of outing specific players.

Unfortunately, it feels like the abuse Mundle has been getting has been the natural escalation of an unacceptable smear campaign. Criticism will always be a natural part of the game, but an unhealthy obsession with pointing out one player’s flaws should not be.

Fortunately, it will only ever be a minority of people who feel the need to react so poorly. Furthermore, it is still to be seen whether the abusers are genuinely Sunderland fans or chancers who don’t understand enough about our game to know or comprehend that football isn’t played by one man alone but a team of people of backgrounds and origins from far and wide.

Players like Mundle bring immense value to the team because they bring different styles and different abilities. He will always be a valued member of this team for two simple reasons: the first being the role he played in our success last season, the effort and passion he brought in the fallout of losing our best player at the time and what he did to make the position his. The second is that he has so much more yet to give.

Mundle was electric against Oxford and showed us what a talent he really is. What he needs now is the weight of the world’s best fanbase behind him – arms around him and lifting him up. With the wages these players are on, it is often easy to lose ourselves in the performance side of football, which too often makes us forget that lads like Mundle are only 22 – all young men doing their best to kick on and grow.

Romaine is also representative of a larger group of players in this Sunderland squad: a band of players with those diverse backgrounds I alluded to earlier. If Mundle is receiving abuse based on the colour of his skin, his ethnicity and his background, what impression does that give the other players on our side?

Sunderland AFC is wonderfully diverse. The city and its fans welcomed me as someone who had fallen in love with the place, despite being born outside the city’s boundaries. It is important that we look at this situation and realise our influence as the Red and White army. This piece does not serve as a rant, nor is it a demand for better. But it’s a reminder of actually quite how brilliant we are. Few newly promoted sides have managed what we have recently; there are even fewer fan bases that could ever be as passionate as we are, week in, week out. It is important that we remember as much, it is important that we now circle around our own, and it is imperative that we do what we can to push our lads onwards and upwards. Haway the lads.

WEDNESDAY

BASEBALL

10aDetroit at PhiladelphiaMLB Net

Noon  L.A. Angels at San Diego MLB Net

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Men

4p  Georgia at Vanderbilt SEC Net

4p  St. John's at Connecticut NBCSN Peacock

4p  Florida at Texas ESPN2

4p  Omaha at South Dakota CBSSN

4p  Butler at Villanova FS1

4p  Illinois State at Northern Iowa ESPNU

4p  Maryland at Nebraska Big Ten

5p  Pittsburgh at Stanford ACC Net

6p  LSU at Mississippi SEC Net

6p  DePaul at Creighton NBCSN Peacock

6p  Texas A&M at Arkansas ESPN2

6p  UNLV at Grand Canyon CBSSN

6p  Kansas State at Colorado FS1

6p  Mississippi State at Alabama ESPNU

6p  Ohio State at Iowa Big Ten

7p  SMU at Cal ACC Net (810)

8p  Santa Clara at St. Mary's CBSSN

8p  Utah State at San Diego State FS1

8p  Washington State at Loyola Marymount ESPNU

8p  Wisconsin at Oregon Big Ten

Women

5p Michigan at Ohio State Peacock

6:30p San Jose State at Nevada Mountain West Net

COLLEGE SOFTBALL

3pMississippi State at Georgia Tech ACC Net

GOLF

5:30p  LPGA: HSBC Women's World Championship Golf Ch.

2:30a ThuDP World Tour: South African Open Golf Ch.

NBA

4:30pWarriors at Memphis NBCSBA (95.7)

4:30p  Oklahoma City at Detroit ESPN

7:05pBoston at Denver ESPN

NHL

4:30p  Toronto at Tampa Bay TNT TruTV

7p  Vegas at Los Angeles TNT TruTV

SOCCER

8:50a  CONCACAF men's U-20 qualifiers: Antigua and Barbuda vs. British Virgin Islands FS2

10:45aSaudi League: Al Najma vs. Al Nassr FS2

NoonChampions League: Juventus vs. GalatasarayCBSSN

12:50p  CONCACAF men's U-20 qualifiers: Puerto Rico vs. Bonaire FS2

3:55p  CONCACAF Champions Cup: FC Cincinnati vs. O&M FC FS2

6:25p  CONCACAF Champions Cup: Vancouver Whitecaps FC vs. Cartaginés FS2

8:25p  CONCACAF Champions Cup: LA Galaxy vs. Sporting San Miguelito FS2

TENNIS

7a  Acapulco-ATP, Dubai-ATP, Austin-WTA, Santiago-ATP & Merida-WTA Tennis Ch.

8a  Austin-WTA, Santiago-ATP & Merida-WTA T2

2p  Merida-WTA & Santiago-ATP T2

3p  Acapulco-ATP, Dubai-ATP, Austin-WTA, Santiago-ATP & Merida-WTA Tennis Ch.

4p  Acapulco-ATP, Austin-WTA, Santiago-ATP & Merida-WTA T2

2a ThuDubai-ATP quarterfinals Tennis Ch.

THURSDAY

BASEBALL

10aAtlanta at N.Y. Yankees MLB Net

NoonCleveland at SeattleMLB Net

NoonTexas at A's(960)

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Men

4p Temple at Florida Atlantic ESPN2

4p Delaware at Jacksonville State CBSSN

4p High Point at Presbyterian ESPNU

5p Michigan State at Purdue NBCSN Peacock

6p Wichita State at Memphis ESPN2

6p Florida International at Sam Houston State CBSSN

Women

3p  Louisville at Georgia Tech ACC Net

3p  Mississippi at Florida SEC Net

3pTennessee at LSU ESPN

4pGeorgetown at UConn TNT TruTV

4pVillanova at Seton HallPeacock

5pFlorida State at Duke ACC Net

5p  Missouri at South Carolina SEC Net

6pProvidence at Creighton TNT TruTV

6pIllinois at Iowa Big Ten

6pPacific at Santa ClaraESPN+

6pLoyola Marymount at USFESPN+

6pSt. Mary's at GonzagaESPN+

7p  Georgia at Texas SEC Net

7pSMU at StanfordACCNX

7pClemson at CalACCNX

GOLF

11a  PGA: Cognizant Classic Golf Ch.

5:30p  LPGA: HSBC Women's World Championship Golf Ch.

2:30a FriDP World Tour: South African Open Golf Ch.

HORSE RACING

NoonAmerica's Day at the Races FS2

NBA

4:30p  Houston at Orlando Prime Video

7pMinnesota at L.A. ClippersPrime Video

NHL

5p  Philadelphia at N.Y. Rangers ESPN

7p  Calgary at Sharks NBCSCA

7:30p  Edmonton at Los Angeles ESPN

SOCCER

9:45a  Europa League: VfB Stuttgart vs. Celtic CBSSN

Noon Europa League: Nottingham Forest vs. Fenerbahçe CBSSN

4p  CONCACAF Champions Cup: Philadelphia Union vs. Defence Force FS1

4:50pCONCACAF men's U-20 qualifiers: Nicaragua vs. Martinique FS2

TENNIS

7a  Acapulco-ATP & Dubai-ATP quarterfinals; Austin-WTA, Santiago-ATP & Merida-WTA early rounds Tennis Ch.

8a  Austin-WTA, Santiago-ATP & Merida-WTA T2

2p  Austin-WTA, Santiago-ATP And Merida-WTA T2

3p  Acapulco-ATP & Dubai-ATP quarterfinals; Austin-WTA, Santiago-ATP & Merida-WTA early rounds Tennis Ch.

4p  Acapulco-ATP quarterfinals; Austin-WTA, Merida-WTA and Santiago-ATP early rounds T2

This article originally published at Bay Area sports calendar, Feb. 25-26.

The Central De Witt Sabers Girls Basketball team beat Solon 67-47 and they have advanced to the State Tournament.

The Sabers are now a tremendous 23-1 on the season.

Sabers score in the first half

Sabers take charge against Solon

Central De Witt rolling against Solon

Sabers win 67-47 advance to State Tournament

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.

ROANOKE COUNTY, Va. (WFXR) — The Hidden Valley boys basketball team wins over Lord Botetourt 66-49 in the Region 3D quarterfinals. The Titans will play Abingdon in the regional semifinals Friday at Northside High School.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.

Four Arizona Cardinals are set to get raises in 2026, and it isn't because of a contract extension. These players have earned league "proven performance" salary escalators.

Players not orginally drafted in the first round can earn fourth-year salary escalators, based on playing time and/or recognition.

The details come from the collective bargaining agreement, via Over the Cap.

How NFL players earn proven performance escalators

• The Level One PPE is earned if a player participates in a certain percentage of a team's offensive or defensive snaps in two of his first three seasons, or averages that percentage of offensive or defensive snaps over his entire first three years. For 2nd round picks, the average is 60%, and (as was the same in the 2011 CBA) for 3rd-7th round picks it is 35%.
• The Level Two PPE is earned if a player participates in at least 55% of a team's offensive or defensive snaps in all of his first three seasons.
• The Level Three PPE is earned if a player is selected to a Pro Bowl on the original ballot (not as an alternate) in any of his first three seasons.

A level-one player will make the salary of a restricted free agent original-round tender — about $3.6 million.

A level-two escalator will get the level-one salary, plus $250,000 (about $3.85 million)

A level-three escalator will earn the salary of a second-round restricted free agent tender, more than $5.8 million.

4 Cardinals players earn escalators

Three players earned level-one escalators.

• CB Garrett Williams
• DL Dante Stills
• TE Elijah Higgins

Williams, Stills and Higgins will make about $3.6 million in salary in 2026. Stills and Higgins were scheduled to make the league minimum of $1.145 million.

One player — receiver Michael Wilson — qualified for level 2, so he will make more than $3.85 million in 2026.

Williams will likely start the season on injured reserve. The rest will have their roles again.

Wilson could see a contract extension.

Get more Cardinals and NFL coverage from Cards Wire's Jess Root and others by listening to the latest on the Rise Up, See Red podcast. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube or Apple podcasts.

This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: 4 Arizona Cardinals getting big salary increases in 2026

ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) – The William Fleming girls basketball team advances to the Region 5C final with a 67-32 win over Mills Godwin in the regional semifinals. The Colonels clinch a spot in the Class 5 quarterfinals. They will play at Glen Allen for the regional title on Friday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.

Braves manager Walt Weiss proves he was the right hire with one simple Ronald Acuna Jr. move originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Atlanta Braves are looking to right the wrongs of the 2025 season. Injuries were the biggest problem last year, preventing the team from finding a rhythm — and the same issue has already surfaced in 2026 with Spencer Schwellenbach sidelined.

“The Braves opened camp this morning with an unwelcome update on talented young righty Spencer Schwellenbach. He’s been placed on the 60-day injured list due to inflammation in his right elbow, per Mark Bowman of MLB.com. The team’s hope is that the 25-year-old is dealing with bone spurs and not something more nefarious,” MLB Trade Rumors’ Steve Adams wrote.

The Braves also face future challenges when it comes to Ronald Acuña Jr., particularly regarding how to manage payroll.

“The Braves must also account for future extensions for other core players, making payroll allocation a delicate exercise. Retaining Acuña long term is a priority, but accomplishing it will not be easy. Bellinger pulled in $162 million despite his up-and-down career thus far. Signing Acuña will almost certainly require more, both in total dollars and years,” HTHB’s Chase Owens wrote. “With each big-money contract we see like Bellinger or Kyle Tucker or Bo Bichette, it feels increasingly likely that Ronald would have no trouble finding a deal worth at least $300 million if not significantly more.”

New manager Walt Weiss is already setting the tone for the team, making subtle but impactful moves in Spring Training.

“A three-run first the day after benching the regulars. Walt is a genius,” Braves reporter Mark Bowman wrote.

This type of decision from Weiss has set a tone not just for the preseason, but for the regular season as well. Atlanta struggled offensively last year, and some believe former manager Brian Snitker’s laid-back approach may have been part of the problem.

The Braves are aiming for a big season, and moves like these will be critical for Weiss. Atlanta is determined to return to the playoffs after missing them for the first time in a long while.

More MLB news:

• Dodgers' Dave Roberts gives concerning injury update on $182M 2X Cy Young winner, World Series ace

• Dodgers' Dave Roberts makes Kyle Tucker lineup decision amid Freddie Freeman Spring Training debut

• Blue Jays reportedly attempting to reunite with 3-time Cy Young winner, 8-time All-Star

• Cubs sign struggling $2M World Series champion, Pete Crow-Armstrong takes NSFW jab at Dodgers

• Braves' Chris Sale receives $57M contract update after Spring Training start as retirement looms

• Braves predicted to make blockbuster trade for $100M Silver Slugger, Gold Glover, hometown hero

• Yankees predicted to make blockbuster trade for $100M Silver Slugger to add alongside Aaron Judge

• Blue Jays predicted to sign $10M 2-time World Series champion, 2-time Cy Young winner, 8X All-Star

• Phillies urged to part ways with $10M All-Star, former top prospect, Rookie of the Year runner-up

• Braves' $7M injury prone fan favorite, World Series champion deemed unreliable, questioning future

• Dodgers' Dave Roberts makes major Shohei Ohtani Spring Training announcement ahead of WBC

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO/WQRF) — Sectional Tournament basketball wins are exhilarating when you when and heartbreaking when you lose. That second one was the case for the Hononegah girls Tuesday night at the 4A Guilford Sectional. Hononegah lost by a point to Mundelein Carmel 40-39 in a semifinal game.

The Indians took a two-point lead on a three-point basket by sophomore Madison Olson with 1:02 to play in the game, but the Corsairs answered at the other end with a three-pointer from the corner to regain the lead by a point.

Hononegah eventually inbounded the ball under its own basket with 7.4 seconds to play. The Indians got the ball to their top scorer Ainsley Hughes, but her running shot on the baseline skimmed across both sides of the rim and dropped off leaving Hononegah out of time and out chances.

Hughes scored 15 points. Olson scored 12 points for Hononegah. Hononegah ends its season with a record of 26-8 and a NIC-10 championship.

Watch the media player for highlights.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO WQRF News, Weather and Sports.

Chiefs GM Brett Veach has broken thesilence on speculation surrounding Travis Kelce’s retirement. Notably, the Chiefs missed the playoffs for the first time since 2014 and finished with a disappointing 6–11 record. Since then, the media has speculated that Kelce will retire soon. However, the Chiefs’ tight end has expressed his desire to continue his NFL career.

Brett Veach speaks up about Travis Kelce ahead of new season

Chiefs GM Brett Veach gives an update on Travis Kelce amid retirement buzz and ahead of the 2026 NFL season. Interestingly, Veach’s comments come less than a week after the team’s head coach, Andy Reid, discussed Kelce’s retirement plans.

Veach revealed that the team is focusing on regrouping and re-strategizing as Kelce’s future with the Chiefs remains undecided. On February 24, Veach shared in a press conference, “I think we’ve kind of taken a different approach with Travis in the sense that I think we’ve kind of prepared for either scenario.”

The Chiefs’ general manager also emphasized that they are in continuous contact with Kelce and are managing the situation through dialogue. Veach said, “Coach had mentioned on Friday that he’s had great dialogue with Travis on our end, myself, Chris Shea, Travis’ crew, we’ve had some good dialogue there — and I’m sure we’re going to see him here just like we will all the other players’ agents and we’ll continue that dialogue.”

Veach recently wrapped up his 19th year in the NFL and ninth year with the Kansas City Chiefs. Towards the end, he lavished praise on the 36-year-old tight end and hoped that he would return to the Chiefs.

Veach expressed, “Travis is the best, he’s an icon, hopefully he comes back and we’ll just kind of let that process play out.”

Previously, Coach Andy Reid disclosed that Kelce had casually discussed the matter with him but hadn’t conveyed his final decision yet. Reid said (via NFL Media), “No, there is communication, though. That’s the main thing. I’ve said this before: As long as there’s communication, I’m good. That means people want to move forward. I think that’s where Trav is. I’m not trying to put words in his mouth at all, and I try to give him some space here.”

The post Chiefs GM Gives Update on Travis Kelce Ahead of 2026 Season appeared first on Mandatory.

The University of Dayton men’s basketball team were in control against No. 23 Saint Louis on Tuesday night.

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Amael L’Etang had a double-double for the second straight game, 26 points and 10 rebounds, as Dayton upset Saint Louis, 77-62, at the UD Arena.

Javon Bennett added 17 while Jordan Derkack finished with 14 points off the bench.

UD held Saint Louis to 5-of-21 from three-point range.

The Flyers extended their winning streak to four games.

They improved to 19-9 overall and 10-5 in the Atlantic 10.

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Saint Louis led, 4-3, after Trey Green’s two foul shots with 16:19 left in the first half. Bennett’s three-pointer put Dayton up for good, 6-4. Jauin Simon’s dunk, and De’Shayne Montgomery’s layup increased it to 10-4.

UD led 15-6 when Derkack made the first of his two treys that increased it to 18-6. Keonte Jones’ dunk and layup expand it further to 22-8.

L’Etang and Derkack combined to score eight points to stretch the Flyers’ advantage to 30-11 with 7:24 left until halftime.

Dayton led by as much as 25 points, 38-13, after a Bennett three. The Billikens went on an 11-2 run to cut the deficit to 40-24 with 1:40 in the first half. L’Etang scored four points to help UD to a 44-28 halftime lead.

Saint Louis got as close as 11 points, 67-56, in the second half. But L’Etang’s four free throws extended it to 71-58. His behind-the-back pass led to a Derkack layup with 1:46 left, which helped seal the game.

Derkack closed out the game with a fastbreak dunk.

The Flyers held Saint Louis to its lowest offensive output of the season.

Dayton’s next game will be on Friday, Feb. 27, when they play at George Washington in Washington, D.C., at 7 p.m.

Pre-game coverage on WHIO Radio begins at 6 p.m.

The game will also be carried at WHIO.com.

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Viral sensation Old Ball talks All-Star Game, Dunk Contest, '90s NBA originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

It's not every day you can talk to a basketball.

MORE:Can anyone break Glen Rice's insane NCAA record this year? Glen Rice weighs in

But that's exactly what The Sporting News did last week, having been granted the unique opportunity to chop it up with animatronic internet sensation Old Ball — as well as the three-headed brain trust behind his operation.

That brain trust is Funny or Die alums Ben Bayouth, Adam Aseraf and Christian Heuer, who now handle Old Ball's shenanigans via their own Benched Studios.

Old Ball got a chance to hang out with NBA royalty at the Los Angeles Clippers' home arena, Intuit Dome, during All-Star Weekend.

As of this writing, Old Ball has notched over 438,000 Instagram followers and close to 250,000 TikTok fans.

After talking with Bayouth, Aseraf and Heuer, The Sporting News got into it with Old Ball himself.

The Sporting News: Old Ball, what was your favorite moment of All-Star Weekend? Did you like the new All-Star game tournament format?

Old Ball: "Loved the new format. Ty Lue and Ballmer must have found the reboot button on Kawhi because that guy was automatic. My favorite moment was housing a bacon-wrapped hot dog outside Intuit Dome. My least favorite moment was discovering I am not built for street meat at 2 a.m."

How did you feel about this year’s Slam Dunk Contest?

"Look, Gary Payton Senior once told me there’s guys who dunk on people and guys who CREATE dunks. Gordon, LaVine, McClung – those are creators. I think we gotta get more creative with the dunks. Give me a Superman over a 7-footer. Give me a 360 windmill over a bonfire. Hang glide from the rafters and crater the Earth with your dunk supremacy. "

Would you have been comfortable being dunked? There were a lot of misses this year. It would probably not be ideal to have been Jase Richardson’s ball.

"Dunked? I watched the warmups and started updating my will. I need two pumps and a pep talk just to stay inflated."

There’s been a lot of chatter recently that All-Star Weekend is washed and needs a change. What would you alter about the format?

"I actually liked the format this year. Felt like those guys were playing hard. I think it’s all about having that one dude that doesn’t want to lose. This year, it was Wemby. He set the tone. You got in the lane with the Frenchman, you were gettin’ smeared into Creme Brulé."

I’ve read in other interviews that you had a shot at the pros in the ’90s, and subsequently were in a shed for three decades. What do you miss most about ’90s basketball? What do you miss most about the shed?

"How about the mid-range jump shot? How about a 130-point game being a rarity? But I digress, these cats today have game – you can’t hate on that. As far as the shed, I miss those cold winter nights where I had nothing to entertain me except a rogue cob web the wind blew onto my face that wouldn’t fall off for months. Oh wait, I don’t miss that at all. Nah, dude. My shed days are over."

PORTSMOUTH - Jenna Lucy scored a game-high 13 points and the Portsmouth High School girls basketball team ended its regular season with a 39-26 Division I win over Goffstown on Tuesday, Feb. 24.

Portsmouth finishes the season with a 10-8 record. Portsmouth head coach Tim Hopley believes the Clippers will be the 12th seed in the upcoming Division I tournament, and will visit No. 5 Exeter in a first-round game.

More: Portsmouth Christian boys basketball opens Division IV tournament

Leiana Cory added 10 points for the Clippers, and teammate Jolie Robichaud had seven.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Exeter 51

Central/West 35

MANCHESTER - Jessica Melick had team-highs in both points and rebounds as Exeter wrapped up its regular season with this Division I win.

Melick had 19 points 12 rebounds for Exeter (13-5), while Lexy Rogers with had 15 points and four assists, and Nicole Melick had 10 points and four assists.

Defensively, Emme Kayes, Mya Dinneen, Emma Gillis, Maya Simeone and May Atlee all starred for the Blue Hawks.

No. 5 Newmarket 52

No. 12 Pittsburg-Canaan 43

NEWMARKET - The fifth-seeded Mules advanced with this Division IV first-round win. Newmarket (16-3) will visit No. 4 Colebrook on Friday in a quarterfinal game. Colebrook advanced with a 66-32 win over No. 13 Mascenic.

No. 8 Woodsville 44

No. 9 Portsmouth Christian Academy 32

WOODSVILLE - The Eagles saw their season come to a close with this Division IV first-round loss. PCA finished its season with a record of 11-8.

BOYS BASKETBALL

Portsmouth 78

Goffstown 66

PORTSMOUTH - The Clippers ended their regular season with a 17-1 record after this Division I win. Portsmouth will be the No. 1 seed in the upcoming Division I tournament.

Exeter 55

Central 51

EXETER - Nate Tomasi scored 14 points and Jackson McDonald added 10 as Exeter finished its regular season with this Division I win.

Huxley Brown and Tyler Ream both scored eight points for the Blue Hawks, who finished at 10-8.

Bishop Guertin 68

Winnacunnet 66

HAMPTON - Sophomore Kash Bailey scored 23 points and junior Niko Paprocki had 22 as Winnacunnet ended its season with a 6-12 record. The loss eliminated from the Warriors from playoff contention.

Junior Liam McNally added 13 points for the Warriors, who trailed 36-29 at halftime and 56-40 going into the fourth quarter.

Pinkerton Academy 97

Dover 75

DERRY - Michael Gorman had 21 points and Owen Corringham and Austin Marcouiller both had 14 for Dover (8-9) in its Division I loss.

Bedford 84

Spaulding 60

ROCHESTER - Kyan Jeanpierre had 16 points and Nick Hocter added 13 for Spaulding (3-13) in its Division I loss.

Hanover 51

Oyster River 34

HANOVER - Will Jernigan had 12 points and Max Scopel had nine for Oyster River (10-7) in its Division II loss.

BOYS HOCKEY

Bishop Guertin 5

Exeter 2

TYNGSBORO, Mass. - Cam Knowles scored both goals for Exeter (5-12) in its Division I loss at Skate 3 Arena. Luke Caron and Tate LoPriore both had one assist for the Blue Hawks, while goalie Tyler Pacific had 37 saves.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Tuesday Seacoast Roundup, Portsmouth girls end regular season with win

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Dejounte Murray converted a slashing layup fewer than 20 seconds into his first game in nearly 13 months.

He capped off his 13-point performance with another driving layup off the glass to give the New Orleans Pelicans a five-point lead with 1:04 to go in a 113-109 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday night.

“I’ve been through a lot," Murray said. "I keep my chest out, chin up, smiling. And I’m just ready to see where it goes from here.”

Murray's playing time was limited to 25 minutes in his comeback from a ruptured right Achilles tendon, but Pelicans coach James Borrego made sure to save some of those minutes for closing time, or, in this case, winning time.

“He looked like his old self. He didn’t miss a beat," Borrego said. "For that to be his first game, I felt him on both ends of the floor. ... He was fantastic. Really proud of him and just happy for him to embrace this moment.”

Murray assisted on three baskets, grabbed a couple of rebounds and had a steal, but also committed five turnovers.

Zion Williamson, who scored a team-high 26 points, made note of Murray's on-court communication and leadership.

“He has a way of just keeping everybody engaged, even when you get frustrated,” Williamson said.

When the game ended, Murray's daughter ran onto the court and hugged her father. When Murray reached the locker room, “his teammates just shouted him out," Borrego said.

The coach described it as "a massive celebration in there for him — the journey he's been on, the year he had.”

Murray said his teammates' celebration of him “was great, but I'm ready for the next game."

The Pelicans have 23 games left this season. Murray left little doubt about the role he expects to play in all of them.

“I'm hungry,” Murray said. "I'm starving.”

___

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

The Arizona Wildcats seem to have one quarter of extreme struggle in every game. It was the second quarter on Tuesday night, but they found a way to bring their fans to their feet and send their seniors out on a high note with a 75-67 win over the Houston Cougars.

It was a long, drawn out and sometimes sluggish game with 10 official reviews. At times, the fans were silent because there was little to cheer about. The Wildcats found a way to wake them up.

With 7:38 left in the game, junior guard Sumayah Sugapong hit a 3 that put the home team up for good. McKale Center exploded like it was a championship bucket.

“What a way to wrap up the regular home season,” Arizona head coach Becky Burke said. “And just can’t say enough about how they supported us this season, and day in and day out, showing up and filling this place for a team that just battled and battled and battled and may not have shown up in the wins or loss column, but this fan base stayed true to us this year, and it was absolutely a difference maker, and it was absolutely incredible. So really just thankful for our fans and what they showed us all season.”

The excitement was a long time coming.

Arizona scored just six points in the second frame, but the drought started in the first. The Wildcats led by as many as six points in the opening quarter, but they struggled to hit layups. The only reason they held a lead going into the second quarter was that the Cougars had their own difficulty. The visitors only scored seven points in the opening quarter.

The last basket scored by either team in the first was by Arizona’s Blessing ‘Adde’ Adebanjo. It came with 2:44 left in the frame.

Houston found its rhythm in the second quarter, but Arizona’s shooting woes continued. Arizona didn’t score until the Cougars had tied the game at 13-13.

Molly Ladwig hit a 3 at the 6:40 mark of the second, but it was one of just two field goals by the Wildcats in the period. The other one came with 13 seconds left in the half when Sugapong hit a layup. The only other point in the second came on a Sugapong free throw.

It was not pretty to watch.

A big reason for Arizona’s offensive struggles was the lack of Houston turnovers in the second quarter. The Cougars turned the ball over seven times in the opening 10 minutes. Five of those were on Arizona steals, allowing the Wildcats to get out in transition.

In the second period, the Cougars cut the turnovers down to three. Arizona was forced to find offense in the halfcourt, something that has been difficult for the ‘Cats all season.

It didn’t help that Cornfield had to leave the game for several minutes. The point guard was hit in the face with just under 6.5 minutes left in the half. One of numerous reviews determined the contact was incidental, but that didn’t help Cornfield. She went to the locker room and didn’t re-enter to the game until 3:17 on the clock. It took quick work by associate athletic trainer Bart Jameson and the medical staff.

“Bart told me she had to go get stitches,” Burke said. “And I said, ‘Tell them to hurry up and stitch her up, get her back in.’ So I don’t know. I think she got hit, maybe inadvertently, but yeah, the lips started bleeding, so they got her stitched up. But that’s toughness right there. Come back in and and I think she was still just downhill and aggressive when she came back in and wasn’t babying it or anything like that. So that was good to see.”

Cornfield willed her team to victory with both her scoring and her playmaking. She almost got her third double-double in Big 12 play with 18 points, 9 assists, and 1 steal. She shot 50 percent from the floor and was 6 for 6 from the line.

“I thought Cornfield just really was a woman on a mission, and I thought she set the tone there early,” said Houston head coach Matthew Mitchell. “And they were turning the ball over in the first half, and they looked a little out of rhythm. And I think her early play…in the third quarter really kind of set a set of tone for them.”

Sugapong was the beneficiary of several of Cornfield’s assists, especially in the fourth quarter when Arizona was taking control. Five of Cornfield’s assists were in the final 10 minutes. Three were dishes to Sugapong.

Sugapong led the team with 20 points on 6-for-16 shooting. She hit 2 of 6 shots from beyond the arc and made 6 of 7 free throws. She also had one assist and five steals.

While the fourth was the biggest quarter for Arizona as far as scoring, the Wildcats jumpstarted their offense in the third quarter. There were still blunders, though. An Arizona player fouled a 3-point shooter for at least the fourth time this season.

As has been the case on multiple 3-point fouls, it was done at the end of a period when the ‘Cats had the advantage and the shot was unlikely to be good. Kyndall Hunter stepped to the line and hit two of three to give the Cougars the lead again.

The Wildcats put it behind them quickly. They traded buckets with the Cougars to start the fourth quarter, then Sugapong hit her big 3. It started an 11-2 run that put the home team up by 8 with 3:52 to go.

Both of Arizona’s healthy final-year players started the game. Cornfield had been benched after receiving a technical late in the game at Baylor, part of a contentious season when she was held out of games or didn’t start several times. Francois has started at times this season but not others and had also sat out a game for disciplinary reasons. Despite that, Burke felt they had earned the right to start on their senior night.

“It’s just doing the right thing,” Burke said. “As seniors, this is something that, like—it’s their senior day. They need to hear their name one last time in McKale and have this opportunity. Did I want to do it? No, but it’s the right decision. And, you know, it’s something they’re going to look back on and remember starting their last game here. And I think that’s bigger than mistakes they’ve made or things that they’ve done.”

Francois also went out on a high note. A player who once said that she didn’t think this level of basketball was even a possibility for her helped her team win with 12 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist, and 2 steals. She also did the little things that don’t show up on the stat sheet.

“She was solid, and I think we’re at our best when Nora’s solid, right?” Burke said. “She’s not doing too much, she’s not pressing, she’s taking the game that comes to her…She took good shots. I thought she set great screens, and was really good defensively when they were in ball screens, which is where she’s always really good.”

There was also youth on the floor for the final regular season game in McKale. Molly Ladwig got her third straight start and sixth of the season. She contributed 9 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 steal.

The freshman had several nice moments, including a pretty spin move that she’s been showing more often lately.

“She used to mess us up in open gym with that spin move,” joked sixth-year guard Micky Perdue.

Perdue didn’t get to play on her senior night at Arizona. She was hurt four games into Big 12 play and has been on the sidelines cheering for her teammates ever since. She will work on healing and playing professionally next year.

“I think that basketball has always been my identity, and it gave me opportunity to just find who I am outside of basketball,” Perdue said. “And I’m glad that I had people around me to support me to lean on.”

Arizona has at least two more games this season. They will travel to Utah to take on the Utes for the second time this season. The first meeting was a one-point loss in McKale Center to start conference play. It was a game that made the Wildcats feel like they could compete in this league despite whatever shortcomings they might have. A two-game winning streak would only make that more real heading into the conference tournament next week.

“It was a one-point game and we missed 20-something layups, and that’s a real number,” Burke said. “So going into there, knowing that we have to play really well, they’re a really good team, but also the fact that we can win. So let’s go act like it. Let’s go execute well. Let’s go be some road warriors, see if we can’t win another one before we go to Kansas City, where anything can happen.”

JACKSON, Mich. (WLNS) – Jackson Lumen Christi girls basketball challenged itself against one of the top teams in Div. 1 on Tuesday night, falling to Rockford 45-40.

The Rams are the reigning Div. 1 State Runner-Up and are 20-1 this season after Tuesday’s win. They’re ranked No. 2 in the state in the latest AP poll and are No. 1 in the state in MPR.

Lumen Christi is ranked No. 3 in the state in Div. 3 and falls to 16-3 with the loss.

The game was one of three non-conference games the Titans are playing this week to get ready for the playoffs, which begin next week.

The Titans host Detroit Mumford on Thursday at 6 p.m. and Beaverton on Saturday at 1 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.

Old Ball's creators unpack his journey to All-Star Weekend originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Do you know ball? Then you likely know Old Ball, the ascendant animatronic viral sensation who's been sweeping the nation.

MORE:Can anyone break Glen Rice's insane NCAA record this year? Glen Rice weighs in

Conceived less than a year ago by Emmy-nominated Funny or Die alums Ben Bayouth, Adam Aseraf and Christian Heuer, the refreshingly retro talking basketball has been making the media rounds of late. Bayouth constructed and now operates and voices Old Ball, while Heuer and Aseraf serve as co-writers and producers for Old Ball's various adventures. 

Together, the trio collaborates under the banner of Benched Studios.

"We've known each other for 10 years-plus, and have worked on a bunch of different stuff together throughout the years," Heuer tells The Sporting News. "Ben's the Jim Henson-level genius that's behind the fabrication of Old Ball, and the design of it. I've known about Ben's superpower, obviously, since I met him, and I've always wanted to do some sort of animatronic puppet-in-the-real-world idea or concept or show. It just kind of came to us one day, like, 'What if we did a basketball?'

"We're obviously fans of basketball. We feel like there's something familiar about a basketball, rather than just creating an alien creature or something, we could actually insert this into a world that already exists. And we did some research, and we just couldn't believe that nobody had quite done something like this. We just got super, super fired up. So we put our heads together and built old ball and we honestly just started super small. We started filming videos in Ben's old home studio," Heuer reveals. "We started taking Old Ball on the street, and just from there it was electric and just blew up."

Old Ball's New Rise

It's only been a matter of months since Old Ball made his debut, but he's already graduated to the big time.

Last week, Old Ball made a splash in Los Angeles while celebrating All-Star Weekend at Intuit Dome, the deluxe new homecourt of the L.A. Clippers. 

Old Ball has already accrued over 438,000 followers on Instagram and nearly 250,000 followers on TikTok.

Two-time All-Star Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah was apparently smitten with Old Ball from the jump. 

"[Noah] just was so taken by it," Aseraf says. "And he was just like, 'This is my guy. Can I have him?' I'm like, 'You can't have him. It's not an apple that we brought to All-Star Weekend!' But yeah, it's really cool to see."

A big element of Old Ball's leveling up to the point where he's being coveted by the 2014 Defensive Player of the Year has been an openness to change from his creators.

"At first, we made him and we were like, 'It's gonna be ESPN meets Jim Henson. He's going to have hot takes, he's this grumpy Old Ball, and [he] sits at the desk and just fires off these sort of grumpy takes, right? And then, we took him out on the street, and we're like, 'Oh, there's also a man on the street version of this,'" Aseraf adds. "And then we started pranking people, we [realized], 'Oh, there's a pranking version of this, too.' It's kind of the gift that keeps on giving, because it just feels like all of these formats seem to be working for Old Ball. So we're just having fun with it as we go along. And he just hosted at All-Star Weekend. It's funny, because people just have him on their lap, like a lap dog. He's like a lap dog that talks."

Finding Old Ball's voice and personality has been a process — and knowing how to establish fluidity in that process has allowed his creators to discover new wrinkles in their broader formula.

"It was like any character that we've created before. You look at the puppet and you're like, 'Oh okay, what would be surprising? What would be fresh? But also, what does the voice want to be?' We sort of carved out a general personality that we wanted for him, and then as we went out into the street and Ben started improvising as him, and we saw what was working and what wasn't, it's been this sort of progressive shape," Aseraf observes. "When you find something surprising about him, we'll follow that lead too and just add more dimension to him."

Behind the Seams of Old Ball

From all appearances, Old Ball is seamless — that is to say, there is no external wiring that needs to be plugged in somewhere, Bayouth isn't puppeteering him directly.

Rather, a network of intricate animatronics are fully contained within the ball itself, and are being remote-controlled by Bayouth on site. The eyebrows, eyelids, eyeballs (which can move independently of each other), and mouth (lips, jaws, and now a new smile) are all fully articulated and remarkably expressive.

"Sometimes with puppets, some parts of it have to fit on the outside, or it's just the face and you can take the hair off around the back [and] you can access, but with a character like this, being full 360 is really integral to the experience of the person who's interacting with him," Bayouth says. "I think the all-inclusive ball that has everything built inside of it that is seamless — that moves and talks and can be passed around — is something that doesn't feel, for some reason, attainable to some people who don't know how the animatronics work."

That's not to say that other methods wouldn't be doable. But the wireless approach allows for maximal viral reactions, in the Old Ball team's estimation. The fact that he is a physical, self-contained animatronic also helps Old Ball's creators and the people with whom he interacts on-site lean into the cheerfully semi-retro element of the whole operation.

"There's a nostalgia feeling to Old Ball, to where you're like, 'Wait a second, did this exist? Was this around when we were kids?' We like that vibe to it. And just again, that it's old school meets new school," Heuer says. "Obviously there's the remote that Ben uses... but there are some new elements to it. It's '80s, '90s technology." 

Specifically, Old Ball harkens back to a somewhat magical time for the NBA: when the Magic Johnson/Kareem Abdul-Jabbar/James Worthy Los Angeles Lakers and the Michael Jordan/Scottie Pippen Chicago Bulls were running the league.

"I think it's a throwback to these eras that we just have a lot of reverence for," Aseraf posits. "There's certain times in certain sports where it just felt like everything was clicking... Basketball has it with that '90s, late '80s era of Jordan and the sunsetting of the Showtime [Lakers] era. We just wanted to encapsulate that — like with Little Penny, there's something about that time, that feels pulpy and vibrant, that I think people enjoy. Old Ball is kind of a reflection of that."

Finessing the character's off-the-cuff expressions and vocalizations has offered up its own unique set of challenges.

"You really have to be tuned into, as I'm performing the character, the voice of the character — how the tone and the voice sounds — the comedy of what's actually being said, the smarts of being accurate to the sport and also performing the actual robotics of it all," Bayouth reveals. "It's a marriage of many different things that I'm juggling at the same time."

A Ball-Verse on the Horizon

So what's next for Old Ball? Some siblings, from the sounds of things!

"What we've really realized is Old Ball, and what we're calling 'The Ball-verse,' is kind of this infinite creative well," Heuer indicates. "We realize, we want to try to make— this is going to sound grandiose — our version of the 'sports Muppets.' We'd love to do a ball for every sport, and have a show where the balls are together, that's fun, and has heart. But then each of the characters would exist in the sport, like Old Ball has been materializing with basketball. Again, it's a big vision, and it's just one day at a time, but it feels like we kind of have an open runway, and it's been so fun to see how this is working."

Specifically, to coincide with the World Cup, a talking animatronic soccer ball is the next critter on the horizon.

"We made a soccer ball that we want to put out pretty soon that we want to start hyping up for the World Cup," Heuer reveals. "The tides of media have changed so much, and a lot of times it feels destitute with AI slop and all this stuff. We're kind of like, 'Man, this is part of a new chapter of entertainment, where this could really go anywhere.' We could have a short-form travel show on YouTube, but then we could have a prank movie on Netflix. Who knows where this could go, but we're just really excited."

When it comes to, say, a narrative feature film, there's a specific — and, yes, retro — tone the Benched team wants to capture.

"It would be nice to make a movie and to continue that '90s nostalgia, a Small Soldiers-type movie. These fun, FX-heavy movies that are all-ages, four-quadrant film-type thing I think would be super fun to do," Bayouth allows. "Helps fill in some of the gaps for people who are just wondering, and want to know, 'Where did he come from? What happened?'"

Small Soldiers director Joe Dante has a knack for cultivating family-friendly chaos with wonderfully lifelike puppet creations. To wit, he also helmed the two Gremlins films, Explorers, Matinee, Piranha, and The Howling.

Beyond spending time with Bayouth, Aseraf and Heuer, The Sporting News recently had a chance to catch up with Old Ball himself and talk shop about all things All-Star Weekend.

But that's another story.

FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) — Micah Robinson scored 20 points, Xavier Edmonds added 17 and TCU rolled to a 90-78 victory over Arizona State on Tuesday night.

TCU took the lead for good with about six minutes to play before halftime led by as many as 18 points in the second half.

Edmonds and Robinson each made three of TCU's eight 3-pointers. Brock Harding shot just 1 of 10 from the floor but made 8 of 11 free throws and finished with 10 points and distributed 11 assists for the Horned Frogs. Tanner Toolson added 12 points and Liutauras Lelevicius scored 10.

TCU (18-10, 8-7 Big 12) has won five of its last six and four straight against Arizona State (14-14, 5-10).

Maurice Odum scored 21 points and had 10 assists to lead the Sun Devils. Anthony Johnson added 18 points and Massamba Diop 13.

Edmonds scored 14 points and Lelevicius added nine to help TCU take a 33-30 lead to halftime. With 13:30 left, TCU started a 9-0 surge for a 58-46 lead and the Horned Frogs held a double-digit advantage for most of the remainder.

Up next

Arizona State hosts Utah on Saturday.

TCU plays at Kansas State on Saturday.

___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here and here (AP News mobile app). AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball

MLB Trade Rumors | Darragh McDonald: Spring training games have begun, and for the most part, all of the big offseason moves and acquisitions have been made. However, teams still usually have openings at the back end of their roster at this time of year, and the Yankees apparently are no different. In particular, the Yankees are reportedly still keeping an eye on a potential platoon bat, and will monitor who becomes available as spring training continues — even as it winds down before Opening Day on March 25th.

NJ.com | Randy Miller: Ben Rice was arguably the Yankees’ best surprise in 2025, putting in a breakout campaign after he debuted in up-and-down fashion in 2024. Despite the re-signing of Paul Goldschmidt, Ben Rice figures to be a big part of the Yankees’ plans this season. While the Yankees may also decide to use him as a backup catcher too, Rice really hopes to improve on his defense in 2026, as well as maintain a regular spot in the lineup.

MLB.com | Bryan Hoch: Speaking of Goldschmidt, in addition to returning to the Yankees, he is also set to return to the USA team for the upcoming World Baseball Classic. Here, Goldschmidt discusses his love for the tournament—this will be his third after winning it in 2017 and finishing runner-up in 2023—and how he’s preparing for a likely reduced role in the Bronx behind Rice in 2026.

Report: Bayern to lower asking price for Kim (TEAMtalk)

The latest rumors indicate that Bayern Munich would like to sell center-back Kim Min-jae this summer, but also that the big South Korean would rather stay put.

The report below could be a response to that as it states Bayern Munich is willing to lower its asking price for Kim. That could help another club afford his lofty salary:

Bayern Munich are ready to sell Kim Min-jae for a loss in the summer transfer window, according to a report, which will be welcomed by Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior as well as by Tottenham Hotspur.

Dean Jones doubled down on his claim about Chelsea and Kim on Flashscore on February 23, 2026, reporting that Kim is among ‘several names’ under ‘consideration’ by the Blues.

Jones reported that ‘Chelsea are increasingly likely to enter the market for a proven, high-level centre-back to anchor a back line that currently leans heavily on developing talent’.

Fussball Daten, too, has now reported Chelsea’s interest in Kim, adding that Tottenham Hotspur are eyeing a move for the former Napoli centre-back this summer as well.

Bayern are said to be willing to sell Kim at the end of the season and will even take a loss.

Regarding the ‘he asking price’, the German giants paid €50million (£43.6m, $59m) to Napoli to sign Kim in the summer of 2023, and although their ‘main goal’ is to get €35-40m (up to £35m, $47.1m) for the centre-back, ‘the amount could drop to around €30m ($26.2m, $35.3m) if offers include immediate payment’.

While Bayern Munich has not publicly stated its desire to sell the defender, it sure seems like it could be a legitimate plan for the club. Lowering the asking price would definitely show a commitment to make a move happen.

Juve, Vlahović set for talks in March (Transfer journalist Nicolò Schira)

Juventus is due to exchange contractual ideas with striker Dušan Vlahović. This could be one of the final chances to make progress on a deal before his contract expires after the season:

🚨 Excl. – Scheduled and Expected a meeting in March between #Juventus and Dusan #Vlahovic’s agent. #Juve are planning to make an attempt to try to extend the contract, which expires in June. #transfers

Juve nearing deal with McKennie (Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano)

Juventus is busy, eh? Weston McKennie could be getting a new deal very soon:

Bayern among teams eyeing Mané…no, not THAT Mané (ESPN)

Bayern Munich might be looking to add some depth at forward by acquiring Mané… Mateus Mané:

Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund are all interested in Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Mateus Mané, according to TEAMtalk. They join a flurry of Premier League clubs looking at the 18-year-old as Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham and Everton have all been keeping close tabs on his progress. Mane is happy with how his situation with Wolves has progressed in recent months and isn’t in a rush to leave the club, although the opportunity to join a top side could interest him, especially if his current side are relegated.

I just went offside typing this!

Griezmann to Orlando City? (Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano)

MLS club Orlando City is negotiating with Atlético Madrid’s Antoine Griezmann:

Griezmann notoriously loves New York, so it is a little shocking he is not aiming for NYCFC or New York Red Bulls.

Inter scoping Akanji (ESPN)

Inter Milan could be looking to bring in Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji:

Internazionale will trigger the option to make Man City defender Manuel Akanji’s loan deal permanent for €15 million, according to Nicolo Schira. Inter have already agreed personal terms on a contract that will be worth €3.75 million-a-year and run until 2028, with the option for an extra year. Inter have an obligation to complete the deal if they win the league, yet they will sign the 27-year-old even if that isn’t triggered.

If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast, Spotify, Apple, or any leading podcast distributor…

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Welcome to Midnight Mania!

Let’s start the night off by taking a look back over the three biggest stories of Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026.

1. UFC Houston’s Sean Strickland unimpressed by new bonuses, Paramount pay bump: ‘No one’s getting paid more’: Strickland is surprisingly among the most vocal athletes campaigning for better pay … or at least acknowledging the problem openly.
2. Merab time! Former UFC champ signs with RAF, debuts April 18 in Philly: Merab Dvalishvili is absolutely built to compete in RAF, but hopefully they don’t match him with some elite 22-year-old from the world scene.
3. UFC superstar reacts (poorly) to Zuffa Boxing’s absurd $15 million Conor Benn one-fight deal – ‘I’ve never heard of him’: One wonders is a popular UFC star could eventually break away and do their own thing like a Jake Paul? Is anyone aside from McGregor big enough?

Insomnia

GRAPHIC VIDEO: We have seen fighters copy Max Holloway’s signature point down to horrible results, but this is the first time I’ve seen the Justin Gaethje backflip backfire so catastrophically.

I’m sure UFC could buy the entire competitive jiu-jitsu scene, but the question remains why? BJJ just isn’t very fun to watch, and I’ve been grappling for 16 years!

Never take anything a devoted pro wrestler says without a grain of salt, but Josh Barnett has quite the explanation for Antonio Inoki slapping the crap out of Lyoto Machida!

The most Australian clip of the week!

Goodbye Vicente Luque, I enjoyed your Welterweight rise greatly. Does anyone believe a Middleweight move will rejuvenate his career?

Does Oscar De La Hoya have painted on abs? Is this some kind of implement? Those hands still look sharp but I can’t look at anything else.

Slips, rips, and KO clips

A good fight to look back it! Both men have come a long way.

Edgar Chairez is an underrated Flyweight who has only lost to really good opponents.

Both guys standing tall with their chin high, one falls immediately.

Random Land

Avalanche beats train.

Midnight Music: Indie rock, 1993

Sleep well Maniacs! More martial arts madness is always on the way.

The Oklahoma City Thunder avoided an epic collapse in their 116-107 win over the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday. Once up by 25 points, they had to have a strong finish to avoid a meltdown.

Cason Wallace had 27 points, eight rebounds and seven assists. Isaiah Joe scored 22 points. Alex Caruso finished with 16 points and four assists. Lu Dort tallied 15 points and five rebounds.

Meanwhile, RJ Barrett had 21 points and eight rebounds. Scottie Barnes finished with 15 points and seven assists. Brandon Ingram totaled 15 points and six assists.

Let's look at some of the best photos from the Thunder's nine-point win over the Raptors:

This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: Photos: Best images from Thunder's 116-107 win over Raptors

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP) — Cameron Boozer had 24 points and 13 rebounds as No. 1 Duke beat Notre Dame 100-56 on Tuesday night, handing the Irish their worst home loss since 1898.

Duke (26-2, 14-1 Atlantic Coast Conference), playing its first game this season as No. 1, coming off win over then-No. 1 Michigan on Saturday, ended Notre Dame’s streak of six home wins against AP No. 1-ranked teams, starting with UCLA in 1974, when the Fighting Irish ended UCLA’s record 88-game winning streak.

The 6-foot-9 Boozer, a national Player of the Year candidate, overpowered Notre Dame, scoring 20 points and grabbing nine rebounds in the first half as the Blue Devils rolled to a 54-22 halftime lead. He hit 10 of 12 shots in the first half.

Darren Harris scored 16 points for Duke and Patrick Ngongba II and Caleb Foster scored 13 points each.

Cole Certa and Brady Koehler scored 14 points each for Notre Dame.

NO. 2 ARIZONA 87, BAYLOR 80

WACO, Texas (AP) — Jaden Bradley scored 25 points, Brayden Burries had 24 and Arizona outlasted Baylor, giving the Wildcats a two-game lead in the Big 12 standings with three to play in the regular season.

The Wildcats erased a 10-point deficit early in the second half, then had to withstand a back-and-forth finish. There was a 13 1/2-minute stretch in which the margin never was more than two points and the lead changed hands 13 times.

Tobe Awaka had 10 points and 13 rebounds for Arizona (26-2, 13-2), which has won its last three games since back-to-back losses that followed a 23-0 start to the season. Motiejus Krivas finished with 12 points.

Cameron Carr had 26 points for Baylor (14-14, 4-11). Isaac Williams scored 16 and freshman Tounde Yessoufou added 12.

The remaining four contenders for the Big 12 regular-season title all have 11-4 conference records: No. 4 Iowa State, No. 5 Houston, No. 14 Kansas and No. 16 Texas Tech.

Arizona finally took the lead for good on Bradley’s long jumper from the right wing that made it 76-75 with 4:04 left. Burries added a short jumper a minute later.

NO. 3 MICHIGAN 77, MINNESOTA 67

ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) — Elliot Cadeau had 15 points and L.J. Cason scored 11 of his 14 points in the second half as Michigan beat Minnesota to clinch at least a share of the Big Ten title for the first time in five years.

The Wolverines (26-2, 16-1) can earn an outright championship with a win at No. 10 Illinois on Friday night or next week at Iowa or at home against 15th-ranked Michigan State.

Michigan was coming off a 68-63 loss to Duke that dropped the Wolverines down from No. 1 and vaulted the Blue Devils to the top spot in the AP Top 25.

The Gophers (13-15, 6-11) trailed by just four at halftime before giving up too many 3-pointers. Michigan made 9 of 18 shots from beyond the arc in the second half.

Minnesota’s Cade Tyson scored 20 points, Langston Reynolds had 15 points and Isaac Asuma and Bobby Durkin scored 12 apiece.

NO. 4 IOWA STATE 75, UTAH 59

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Joshua Jefferson scored 21 points, Milan Momcilovic made four 3-pointers to break the Iowa State record for 3s in a season, and the Cyclones beat Utah.

Momcilovic entered the game with 100 3-pointers and surpassed Dedric Willoughby’s record of 102, set in 1997, when he hit back-to-back 3s in the second half. The 6-foot-8 junior forward has 104 after going 4 of 8 from deep against the Utes; he is shooting better than 50% from long range. He finished with 14 points.

Making its first visit to Salt Lake City, Iowa State (24-4, 11-4 Big 12) held Utah without a field goal — seven straight misses — over a stretch of 9:14 in the second half to turn a five-point lead into a 17-point advantage.

Jefferson recorded his 34th consecutive game in double figures. Jamarion Batemon added 13 points.

Terrence Brown scored 18 points, Don McHenry had 14 and Keanu Dawes added 10 points and 12 rebounds for the Utes (10-18, 2-13), who have lost nine of 10.

The Cyclones’ pressure defense sped up the Utes’ ballhandlers, delaying their offensive sets and forcing them into 18 turnovers.

NO. 11 VIRGINIA 90, NC STATE 61

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. Thijs De Ridder scored 19 points lead five Virginia players in double figures as the Cavaliers beat North Carolina State, cruising in their final tuneup before Saturday’s showdown at No. 1 Duke.

Virginia (25-3, 13-2 Atlantic Coast Conference) never trailed as it won its ninth straight. However, there was cause for concern for the Cavaliers when De Ridder limped off the floor and headed to the locker room with about five minutes remaining.

Sam Lewis added 16 points for the Cavaliers, who trail only the first-place Blue Devils in the ACC standings. Jacari White scored 15 and Malik Thomas added 12.

Virginia blocked 12 shots — led by 7-foot freshman Johann Grunloh with a career-high eight — and its bench outscored N.C. State’s 32-5. The Cavaliers went 12 of 26 from 3-point range.

Paul McNeil Jr. had 22 points and six rebounds for the Wolfpack (19-9, 10-5). Darrion Williams added 14 points and Ven-Allen Lubin scored 11.

NO. 16 TEXAS TECH 80, CINCINNATI 68

LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) — Christian Anderson had 31 points and a career-high 11 rebounds, leading Texas Tech past Cincinnati for a second consecutive victory since star forward JT Toppin’s season-ending knee injury.

Anderson’s eighth double-double of the season — and his two-year career — was his first with rebounds and filled the void the Red Raiders (21-7, 11-4 Big 12) are facing without Toppin, one of the nation’s double-double leaders. The guard’s first seven double-doubles were with assists, and he had seven against the Bearcats.

Moustapha Thiam had 21 points and 10 rebounds for Cincinnati (15-13, 7-8), which had a four-game winning streak — tied for its season best — stopped three days after an upset victory at Kansas that dropped the Jayhawks six spots to 14th in the AP Top 25.

LeJuan Watts scored 13 points for Texas Tech, and Donovan Atwell, one of the nation’s best 3-point shooters, added 12 while taking all nine of his shots from long range and making four.

Anderson had his highest-scoring game in the Big 12 as the Red Raiders made it a pair of double-digit victories since Toppin went down in a loss at Arizona State.

NO. 21 MIAMI (OHIO) 74, EASTERN MICHIGAN 64

YPSILANTI, Mich. (AP) — Brant Byers scored 16 points and Antwone Woolfolk added 14 as Miami of Ohio beat Eastern Michigan to remain the only undefeated team in Division I men’s basketball.

Peter Suder had 13 points and 10 rebounds for the RedHawks (28-0, 15-0 Mid-American Conference), who extended the best start in program history and added to their school record for wins in a season. Miami also boasts the best start and longest win streak in MAC annals.

Gregory Lawson II led the Eagles (10-19, 4-12) with 29 points, his career high.

Miami opened 0 for 6 on 3-pointers until Eian Elmer connected with 8:58 left in the first half. Despite shooting 22.2% from long range, the RedHawks took a 43-22 lead into halftime after closing the period the same way they started it: with a 12-0 run.

Miami entered shooting 40.3% from 3-point distance, good for third in the nation and best in the MAC.

MISSOURI 73, NO. 22 TENNESSEE 69

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — T.O. Barrett scored a career-best 28 points and Mark Mitchell added 23 to help Missouri beat Tennessee.

Trent Burns had seven rebounds and four steals off the bench for the Tigers (19-9, 9-6 Southeastern Conference), who improved to 3-1 at home this season against AP Top 25 opponents and 18-1 when scoring at least 73 points.

Ja’Kobi Gillespie scored 19 points, Nate Ament had 17 and Felix Okpara added 15 points and eight rebounds for Tennessee (20-8, 10-5), which had won four consecutive games and eight of the past nine.

Tennessee outrebounded Missouri 42-30 but scored just 20 second-chance points despite grabbing 18 offensive boards. It was the sixth time a ranked Volunteers team lost to an unranked opponent this season.

Bishop Boswell hit a layup with 4 seconds left to cut Missouri’s lead to 71-69, but Jacob Crews made two free throws on the other end to seal the win.

DAYTON 77, NO. 23 SAINT LOUIS 62

DAYTON, Ohio (AP) — Amael L’Etang scored a career-high 26 points and Javon Bennett added 17 as Dayton beat Saint Louis.

Saint Louis has lost two of its last three games since winning 18 straight. The Billikens were 25-2 for just the second time in school history, and the loss to Dayton prevented them from reaching 26-2 for the first time.

Jordan Derkack scored 14 points for the Flyers (19-9, 10-5 A-10), who improved to 14-2 at home. It was their 12th straight win over Saint Louis in UD Arena.

Kellen Thomas led the Billikens with 24 points and Dion Brown had 15.

After trailing by as many has 25 points in the first half, the Billikens (25-3, 13-2) got within 11 late in the second half, but couldn’t complete the comeback.

Ever since its initial boom in popularity a few decades ago, the debate between American football fans and European football fans over who has the right to refer to their sport as “football” has yet to falter. Unfortunately for gridiron fans, however, it doesn’t appear as if the best quarterback in the history of the game, Tom Brady, is willing to draw that hard line in the sand the same way others have.

The seven-time Super Bowl champion has taken up an ambassador-like role ahead of America’s hosting of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and while his most recent comments on the game of soccer were certainly notable, the thing that stuck out the most was, ironically enough, his willingness to call it football instead of soccer.

“Football is for everyone,” Brady noted. “It’s a chance for all of us to connect globally over something that we love. The fact that we have 48 teams in the World Cup means that 48 countries are represented in the World Cup. That’s 48 fan bases. That’s more competition, more games, more opportunities for people to enjoy this incredible sport.”

Whether that statement is the work of Brady’s media training or simply a willingness to acknowledge the original name of the game, who’s to say? Thankfully, at least for his fans back home in the states anyways, he was still willing to use the term “soccer” as well.

“I think there’s always been a huge appetite for soccer in America,” Brady suggested while referencing the popularity of the United States Women’s National Team. He also noted that “Every kid in America grows up playing soccer.”

“They play it in the school yard. We play it foundationally with some of the leagues that we’re a part of… And I think it just continues to grow through social media, through people experiencing such a great game on a global stage. I think the World Cup in America is only going to enhance that for future generations,” Brady added.

He may be the most recognized signal caller in the history of American sports, but it’s clear now that fans shouldn’t look towards Brady for resolution on this particular topic. In fact, he’d likely just encourage you to block out the noise altogether and persuade you to buy a ticket, as is his job as an ambassador.

Nevertheless, regardless of which side of the tried-and-true debate you might stand on, be reminded that a petty disagreement, nor cultural differences, should dissuade you from watching some of the most talented athletes throughout the world face off in one of the most celebrated tournaments in the history of organized sports. Because if you miss it now, you’ll have to wait another four years before you can even have an opportunity to correct that mistake.

The post “Every Kid in America Grows Up Playing Soccer”: Tom Brady Navigates Soccer-Football Debate Amid FIFA World Cup Countdown appeared first on The SportsRush.

Kylie Rebert scored 23 points to lead Central York to a 59-43 win over Gov. Mifflin in the District 3 Class 6A girls basketball consolation semifinals on Tuesday afternoon at Central York High School.

The 11th-seeded Mustangs (18-8) will play the loser of Cedar Cliff-Mechanicsburg for seventh place on Thursday.

Central York, the seventh seed, will play the winner of that game for fifth place.

District 3 qualifies eight teams to the state tournament so Gov. Mifflin is guaranteed at least two more game.

For the Mustangs, Bella Super scored 22 points and Bridget Martin had 12.

Kingston McKoy scored 18 points and Carmelo Harper added 16 as defending district champion Berks Catholic rolled to a 62-35 win over Schuylkill Valley in the semifinals of the District 3 Class 4A boys basketball tournament at Berks Catholic on Tuesday night.

The Saints (24-2) will play the winner of Bishop McDevitt-Big Spring on Friday at a site and time to be determined for the district title.

The Panthers (15-10) will play the loser of that game for third place.

Both Berks Catholic and Schuylkill Valley qualified for the PIAA tournament by making the district semifinals. District 3 advances five teams to the state tourney in 4A.

The Saints jumped to an 18-6 lead after the first quarter as Harper had 7 points, including a 3-pointer.

The Panthers clawed back into the game, cutting it to 3 at one point, and trailed 30-22 at halftime.

They only scored 4 points in the third quarter, as Berks Catholic had a 20-4 edge in the quarter with McKoy getting 8 points.

The Saints have won 18 straight games with their last loss to Reading High, 48-40, on Dec. 29.

For the Panthers, Alex Aletras had 11 points and Zachary Reeser 10.

Braylon Reinert, Dylan Donate and Jayden Ware combined for 46 points as Exeter kept its state boys basketball playoff hopes alive with a 65-43 win over Greencastle-Antrim in the District 3 Class 5A consolations on Tuesday.

Exeter plays the winner of the Northern-Red Land game on Thursday for the ninth place, the district’s last berth in PIAA tournament.

Reinert had 16 points and Donate and Ware 15 each for the Eagles (17-10).

After losing in the first round of the district tourney to drop down the consolation bracket, the Eagles have won twice to stay alive.

The game was tied at 15 after the first quarter, as Donate had 5 points and Reinert 4. Antrim’s Cooper Green had 8 points in the first quarter.

Exeter began to pull away in the second quarter, taking a 32-21 lead. Donate had 6 points and Ware 4 in that period.

The Eagles extended the lead to 47-30 entering the final period, as Ware had 5 points and Reinert 4.

Alysa Liu didn’t just win, she owned the moment at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Returning to the same Olympic stage where she once captured two gold medals, the American figure skating star delivered another triumphant performance at Milano Cortina 2026. And this time, she celebrated the milestone in a look that felt just as fearless as her skating.

Alysa Liu’s backless micro minidress turns her into a superstar at Olympics as she wins big

Take a look at Alysa Liu owning the spotlight in a cute backless dress:

View this post on Instagram

The official Olympics Instagram account shared the celebratory clip with the caption: “Happy to see her happy! Alysa Liu is having fun and crushing it on the same stage where she won two golds at #MilanoCortina2026!”

Liu wore a blue, shimmery, backless micro mini dress that immediately caught attention. The dress hugged her athletic body, and the open back gave it a bold, confident feel. The short hemline made her legs look longer, a perfect match for the strength and precision she shows on the ice.

What stood out most wasn’t just the outfit; it was Liu’s expression. She smiled openly, laughed between moments, and showed a calm confidence.

Originally reported by Khushali Srivastava for RealityTea.

The post Olympian Alysa Liu’s Backless Micro Minidress Also Wins as She Bags Gold appeared first on Mandatory.

A look at upcoming high school boys basketball sectional/district tournaments involving News-Herald coverage area teams:

Division I

Northeast 1 – Lakewood

Top seed: 2 St. Edward

Other area teams: 7 Mentor

Up next: District champ advances to Akron Regional

Outlook: Mentor comes in off an up-and-down end to the regular season. The Cardinals have been strong on offense, averaging 79 points. Jack Kennedy (18.7 points) and Tony Katava (17.5 points) have led the way with contributions from Logan Lynch, Tommy Pavicic and Connor Witte. Katava has controlled the glass (9.9 rebounds) while Kennedy has been strong with the ball in his hands (8.4 assists and 3.7 steals). Defensively, the Mentor press has always challenged teams and will be up to St. Edward to try and figure out.

Division II

Northeast 2 – Valley Forge

Top seed: 7 Hoover

Other area teams: 11 Riverside, 32 North

Up next: District champ advances to Kent State Regional

Outlook: Riverside has won four in a row and look for its first district final since 2007. The Beavers bring a strong inside game of Drew Brown (18 points, 9.8 rebounds) and David Seibert (13.5 points). Add in strong shooting from Palmer Hanlin (43 3s) and Kyele Harden running the offense, the Beavers will contend to hoist a district title.

Northeast 4 – Twinsburg

Top seeds: 5 Austintown-Fitch, 6 Hudson

Other area teams: 17 Mayfield

Up next: District champ advances to Kent State Regional

Outlook: Mayfield brings a balanced blend to the court of ability on the cuts. Izzy Austin (19 points) leads the team in several statistical categories but is’t the only threat for the Wildcats. Aarav Ganore (14.8), Traiton Brown (12.3) and Kingston Murchison are threats up and down the court.

Northeast 7 – Twinsburg

Top seed: 3 Euclid

Up next: District champ advances to Wooster Regional

Outlook: The Panthers come in with an offense that can run through several players. Mekhi Asberry leads the way (17.2 points, 69 3s) with Kye Owens averaging a double-double of 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds. Dashaun Williams (six rebounds), DJ Jenkins (5.5), and Dontez Jones (5.5) help Euclid control the glass for second-chance looks.

Division III

Northeast 1 – Cloverleaf

Top seeds: 10 Garfield Heights, 18 Harvey

Other area teams: 22 Brush, 25 Geneva

Up next: District champ advances to Medina Regional

Outlook: The bottom half of this bracket will be a clash of styles if Harvey and Brush reach the district semifinals. The Red Raiders are offensive-minded, averaging 65.4 points. Four players average over 10 points, led by four-year starter Armani Hall at 13.9. The Red Raiders can play inside and out, making them difficult to defend. But Brush’s defense has held several teams well below their averages, holding teams to 49.5. The Arcs are led by Prince-Ryleigh Johnson with 14.3 points and a strong mix on the drive.

Top seeds: 3 Ursuline, 6 Hawken

Other area teams: 19 University, 42 Madison

Up next: District champ advances to Medina Regional

Outlook: A year ago, Hawken’s run to the state semifinals began with a win over Ursuline. This year, they would meet in the district final. The Hawks are led by guards Daron Hill (17.6 points), Ice Taylor (16.1) and Greg Price (15.9). They also feature Charlie Mallett, who can run the offense and control the glass. But keep an eye on University, as the Preppers have several 3-point shooters that can get hot in an instant.

Northeast 3 – Cloverleaf

Top seeds: 4 Hoban, 5 Kenston

Other area teams: 24 Chardon

Up next: District champ advances to Medina Regional

Outlook: Kenston’s youth movement is in full effect. The top six scorers are underclassmen. Eli Ellis leads the way at 13.5 points per game. But even when he missed several games with a collarbone injury, the Bombers continued to score. Kahlil Hinton (11.8) and Luke Stupica (11.1) control the paint and get up for dunks in transition. Add in Ethan Burge’s improved ability at running the offense (3.2 assists) and the Bombers are going to be a tough out.

Northeast 4 – Warren Harding

Top seeds: 2 Chaney, 8 Gilmour

Up next: District champ advances to Medina Regional

Outlook: Gilmour has been up and down since losing Mikey Holt and Brody Durham. But winning two of the last three and leading a majority of the time against Brecksville could be the spark that the Lancers need for the postseason. Brayden Titas has made a leap with 12.8 points and 52 3-pointers. Caleb Henderson (9.0) and Aiden Anders (8.3) have become voices in the paint and the Lancers will need that if the seeds play out and they meet Chaney in the district final.

Northeast 5 – Strongsville

Top seeds: 7 CVCA, 9 Akron SVSM

Other area teams: 30 VASJ

Up next: District champ advances to Toledo Regional

Outlook: Don’t look now but VASJ is peaking coming into the postseason. The Vikings have won five of their last six and eclipsed 100 points against Mayfield. The junior trio of Jaevon Hairston (16.6), OJ Spikes (14.1) and Julian Council (10.9). Add in a strong defense led by senior Franie Oriani and the Vikings could be primed for another deep postseason run.

Northeast 6 – Strongsville

Top seeds: 1 Alliance

Other area teams: 43 South

Up next: District champ advances to Toledo Regional

Division IV

Northeast 1 – North Ridgeville

Top seeds: 1 Canfield, 6 Orrville

Other area teams: 13 Perry, 14 NDCL, 19 West Geauga

Up next: District champ advances to Canton Regional

Outlook: This bracket has the chance to be chaotic. Perry comes in winning 10 of their last 11. The Pirates have Kaden Brewster that can hit from anywhere on the floor (17 points, 59 3-pointers) coupled with several strong bodies inside to control the glass. NDCL has been challenged this season, playing 13 teams with winning records. Bendan Hernan leads the way with a double-double average (17.1 points, 11.1 rebounds), coupled with Wesley Jacobson (14.9) and Luke Keep (11.9). West Geauga also features a young team that has been developing as well, led by Cooper Paskowski (11.7) and Mason Pesho (11.5).

Northeast 4 – Copley

Top seeds: 5 Warrensville Heights, 9 Woodridge, 10 Benedictine

Up next: District champ advances to Canton Regional

Outlook: Benedictine has brought a very even balance to the court, scoring and holding teams to 59 points. The Bengals are led by Steph Bohanon (15.2) and a balancing act between Xander Smith, Jonathon Spikes and Khaled Thompson. Benedictine is young but features a lot of experience from a challenging schedule and have a wide open top portion of the bracket.

Division V

Northeast 1 – Cleveland Heights

Top seeds: 1 Lutheran East, 12 Triway

Other area teams: 29 Wickliffe, 35 Beachwood

Up next: District champ advances to Canton Regional

Northeast 2 – Firestone

Top seeds: 2 Chagrin Falls, 3 Keystone

Up next: District champ advances to Canton Regional

Outlook: The Tigers have won 15 straight and are doing it with defense. They have held teams to 46.9 points this season while controlling the glass. The offense has been one by committee, as Harrison Horvath (10.8) and Jake Vasko (10.6) are the only two averaging double figures. But it’s the ability for everyone to contribute on both ends of the floor that will help the Tigers make a run this postseason.

Northeast 3 – Cleveland Heights

Top seeds: 5 Poland Seminary, 6 Fairview, 7 Southeast

Other area teams: 25 Lake Catholic

Up next: District champ advances to Canton Regional

Northeast 4 – Firestone

Top seeds: 4 Manchester, 8 LaBrae, 9 Berkshire, 10 Canton Central Catholic

Up next: District champ advances to Canton Regional

Outlook: Berkshire ended the regular season on a three game win streak and are in a very loaded bottom half of the bracket with LaBrae and Canton CC. The Badgers defense has been strong, holding teams to 46.3 points with their length and ability to slow opponents down. Billy Verbic is the teams leading scorer (12.3) but four other players average over five points as well. Cameron Beam has been strong on the boards with a 7.4 average.

Division VI

Northeast 2 – Gilmour

Top seeds: 6 Newton Falls, 7 David Anderson

Other area teams: 9 Richmond Heights

Up next: District champ advances to Canton Regional

Outlook: Richmond Heights is young but able to contend with any team across the lie from them. The Spartans are led by Dereon Barber (14.3 points, 3.3 steals). But it’s their versatility around him that make the Spartans a dark horse. Lucas Perillo brings the size while Hayden Smith can run the offense.

Northeast 3 – Gilmour

Top seeds: 3 Smithville, 4 Brookfield

Other area teams: 18 Andrews Osborne

Up next: District champ advances to Canton Regional

Northeast 4 – Salem

Top seeds: 1 Kirtland, 10 Oberlin

Up next: District champ advances to Canton Regional

Outlook: Kirtland has been efficient on offense. The Hornets are averaging 68.5 points, led by Lucas Renfro (18 points) and Ben DiFranco (14.6) working on the cut. The Hornets use their size and speed to their advantage. They push the pace and tempo against any opponent.

Division VII

Northeast 1 – Mineral Ridge

Top seeds: 1 McDonald, 5 Hillsdale

Other area teams: 17 Cardinal

Up next: District champ advances to Barberton Regional

Northeast 2 – Smithville

Top seeds: 3 Heartland Christian, 4 BC Western Reserve

Other area teams: 14 Cornerstone

Up next: District champ advances to Barberton Regional

Northeast 3 – Smithville

Top seeds: 2 Fairport, 6 Medina Christian

Up next: District champ advances to Barberton Regional

Outlook: Fairport has the coverage area’s best offense, averaging 79.1 points this season, led by Yomar Castellano with 19.8 points per game. But the Skippers’ starting five features four players averaging double figures with Jan Castellano (12.1), Kam Leftwich (12), and Ben Allen (11). Shane Greenwood is a strong shooter, and the Skippers’ variety of defenses have been a challenge to crack all season.

Kentucky Basketball freshman big man Malachi Moreno continues to grow into one of the Wildcats’ most reliable frontcourt pieces, and Tuesday night in Columbia provided his strongest evidence yet.

Moreno finished with 8 points, 11 rebounds, 2 blocks, and a steal in Kentucky’s 72-63 win over South Carolina, which is a stat line no Kentucky freshman has matched in an SEC true road game since Karl-Anthony Towns did it nearly 11 years ago, according to Corey Price.

Towns posted 12 points, 13 rebounds, 4 blocks, 2 steals, and 2 assists in a 71-69 win at LSU on Feb. 10, 2015. For Moreno to join him in that category speaks volumes about how quickly the 6-foot-11 freshman is maturing under head coach Mark Pope.

After the game, Pope said Moreno is working back to full health after battling injury, and his effort reflected the toughness the Wildcats needed to snap their three-game losing streak.

“He’s dealing with a, he’s working his body back into some health. He’s dealing with some situations,” Pope said after the game. “He was really important for us tonight. He always is.”

Moreno’s emergence comes at a pivotal moment for Kentucky, which improved to 18-10 and 9-6 in SEC play with the victory. As Kentucky pushes towards March, Moreno will have to be one of the key contributors for the frontcourt if they want to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.

New England Patriots executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf addressed several things when he met with the media on Tuesday, including the free agent status of veteran safety Jaylinn Hawkins.

Hawkins came to the Patriots in March 2023 and quickly became a key component of the defense. He started in 15 games and recorded 71 total tackles last season, while also racking up four interceptions, 1.5 sacks and a forced fumble. The veteran defender had a productive season for a position that needed additional support with the departures of Kyle Dugger and Jabrill Peppers.

The Patriots would like to have Hawkins back in 2026, but they also seem fine with letting him walk if the price point gets too high for their liking.

“He’s earned the opportunity to see what’s out there, but he’s certainly someone that we would welcome back," Wolf said on Tuesday, via Boston Herald's Doug Kyed.

Patriots EVP Eliot Wolf on FA S Jaylinn Hawkins: “He’s earned the opportunity to see what’s out there, but he’s certainly someone that we would welcome back.”

— Doug Kyed (@DougKyed) February 24, 2026

If Hawkins doesn't return, the Patriots would have to search for a replacement to play next to Craig Woodson, who broke out as one of the team's best defenders throughout the playoff run. They could choose to address the position in either free agency or the 2026 NFL Draft.

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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Eliot Wolf welcomes free agent DB back to Patriots but won't commit

There all all sorts of records in college basketball that are outstanding achievements — whether that be individual or team achievements. For example, going into Tuesday Notre Dame had won 6 games in a row at home against the number one team in the country — a streak dating back to a historic upset of UCLA in 1974. Instead of continuing that streak, or even looking like a division one basketball program, the Irish suffered its biggest loss in modern history.

The single largest loss in Notre Dame basketball history — BUT WHAT ABOUT THE 64-8 CHICAGO FIRST REGIMENT LOSS IN 1898?

They probably played better than Notre Dame did in 2025.

To add literal injury to the insult of a 46 point loss, Micah Shrewsberry injured his Achilles at some point during the first half and needed help going to the locker room at halftime. He eventually needed a walking boot and crutches.

Shrewsberry called this the season from hell, and it’s a hell of his own making. This is his roster — regardless of injuries, and the season is made even worse because of the previous bad seasons with Micah Shrewsberry as the head coach.

It’s hard to say if Pete Bevacqua will ultimately show Micah Shrewsberry the door, but the thing I keep hearing the most is that Noytre Dame WON’T fire him — and it’s a money thing. Frankly, I can’t see how Notre Dame can afford to keep Shrewsberry as each season that passes sets them back further and further.

Notre Dame has three games left in the regular season and has to win at least one of them (but likely two of them) to make the ACC Tournament — as if any of this actually matters right now. The home crowd inside Purcell Pavilion was packed, and it witnessed the WORST loss in program history.

What else is there to say?

Missouri (19-9, 9-6 SEC) defeated No. 22 Tennessee (20-8, 10-5 SEC), 73-69, Tuesday at Mizzou Arena in Columbia, Missouri.

The loss ended the Vols' four-game winning streak.

Tennessee led, 29-26, at halftime.

Ja'Kobi Gillespie totaled 19 points. six assists, four rebounds, two steals and one block. He converted 6-of-21 field goal attempts and 3-of-12 free throw attempts. Gillespie was one of four Vols to score 10-plus points against the Tigers.

Nate Ament recorded 17 points, seven rebounds, two assists, two blocks and two steals, while Felix Okpara had 15 points, including 11 in the second half. He also posted eight rebounds, one block and one steal, while Bishop Boswell finished with 13 points, five rebounds, three assists and one steal for the Vols, who outrebounded Missouri, 42-30, in the contest and forced eight turnovers by the Tigers.

Missouri's T.O. Barrett, a guard, led all scorers with 28 points. He also totaled five rebounds, two assists and one steal for the Tigers, who scored 23 points off of 15 points off of Tennessee turnovers.

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This article originally appeared on Vols Wire: Missouri defeats Tennessee to end win streak

Stealing RJ Barrett's inbound pass, Cason Wallace pushed the pace to swing the ball over to Isaiah Joe for the transition 3-pointer. Big-time bucket to regain some breathing room. The OKC role player connection highlighted the two guys who became the headliners.

The Oklahoma City Thunder avoided disaster in their 116-107 win over the Toronto Raptors. They continue to survive without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams.

Wow. What a win. Since the NBA All-Star break, the Thunder have cooked up a winning formula sans Gilgeous-Alexander. The Raptors have been a respectable squad this season. They've figured out a way to be a winning club with tough-nosed defense and two NBA All-Star players.

To get things started, the Thunder couldn't buy a bucket. Neither could the Raptors, really. You saw two top-six teams in defensive ratings show why they've made their money on that end of the floor. OKC was in a 32-25 deficit after the first quarter.

Scoring struggles were quickly put in the past, though. The Thunder had a game-altering 17-3 run in the second quarter to flip the scoreboard. Wallace swished in an off-dribble 3-pointer to get up to 14 points on perfect shooting. That put OKC ahead 40-36 with a little under six minutes left.

The Thunder scored an unreal 35 points in the second frame. Alex Caruso joined in on the fun with Wallace. He had 14 points. They entered halftime with a 60-51 lead over the Raptors. The Toronto crowd was as quiet as a library as OKC dominated the second quarter.

After the break, it was Joe's turn to help out. Scoreless in the first half, he blitzed the Raptors for 19 points in the third quarter alone. The left-wing spot became his favorite as he knocked down daringly deep outside jumpers. The Thunder opened up a 22-4 run to completely take Toronto out of it.

Joe's four-point play pushed OKC's lead to 96-71 with under two minutes to go in the third frame. More often than not, that should be enough to cruise the rest of the way. The Thunder had a 98-80 lead through three quarters. Alas, their hot shooting cooled off.

The early signs were there in the fourth quarter. Immanuel Quickley's second-chance 3-pointer caused the Thunder to call an early timeout. Suddenly, their lead was down to 99-85 in just a little over one minute into the final frame. Uh oh. A 14-point game at that juncture is nothing.

For almost eight minutes, the Thunder forgot how to play basketball. Turnovers every other possession had them panicking. At one point, they had four straight second-chance looks from deep that clanked. Frustratingly enough, they were on the wrong side of a 21-3 run to start the final frame.

Unreal. Jamal Shead's 3-pointer tied things up at 101 points with four minutes to go. Gulp. Just like that, OKC's 25-point lead evaporated. In record time, too. Even for today's high-paced NBA game. Happens when you forget how to run a functional offense against one of the league's best defenses.

With a fully-awaked Toronto crowd, the Thunder settled down. Specifically Wallace. He had two straight driving layups. Finally, they were no longer frozen at three points in the fourth quarter. He then found Joe for a 3-pointer. Talk about composure.

How do the Thunder react to an all-time meltdown and being tied at 101 points? Well, they simply rattled off nine straight points to create some breathing room. It was the Raptors' turn for their offense to melt. Scottie Barnes had some critical turnovers. Brandon Ingram couldn't hit on critical jumpers.

The Thunder only had 18 points in the final frame, but that was enough to avoid an epic collapse. Phew. Disaster was avoided after it looked like, for most of the second half, the short-handed squad would steal a game from Toronto.

The Thunder shot 47% from the field and went 16-of-40 (40%) from 3. They shot 10-of-12 on free throws. They had 26 assists on 45 baskets. Five Thunder players scored double-digit points.

Wallace had an unreal 27 points, eight rebounds and seven assists. Joe finished with 22 points and three assists. Caruso had 16 points and four assists. Lu Dort tallied 15 points and five rebounds. Isaiah Hartenstein had 11 points and nine rebounds.

Meanwhile, the Raptors shot 47% from the field and went 18-of-38 (47.4%) from 3. They shot 7-of-12 on free throws. They had 30 assists on 41 baskets. Six Raptors players scored double-digit points.

Barrett led the way with 21 points and eight rebounds. Barnes finished with 15 points and seven assists. Ingram had 15 points, six rebounds and six assists. Quickley scored 17 points. Ja'Kobe Walter also scored 17 points. Shead finished with 13 points and four assists.

Another humongous win for the Thunder. I was never a subscriber to the glass-half-full approach with Gilgeous-Alexander's injury, but it really feels like OKC's role players have grown up in front of our eyes over the last three weeks. To the point you wonder how the reigning MVP fits in with the newly-confident versions of guys like Wallace and Joe.

Even though the Thunder fell apart with a blown 25-point lead, they immediately got things together to conjure up one last run. Can't get overstated how impressive a win this is with the Raptors, who've been an upper-half team all season. The short-handed squad has kept pace with the red-hot San Antonio Spurs without losing any ground in the standings.

Let's look at Thunder player grades:

Cason Wallace: A-plus

Getting the switch off Hartenstein's screen, Wallace lowered his shoulders and went at Barnes. He drove downhill and went up with the layup that rainbowed in off the glass. The highly-difficult finish through the DPOY candidate served as the dagger.

Wallace finished with 27 points on 11-of-16 shooting, eight rebounds and seven assists. He shot 4-of-5 from 3 and went 1-of-2 on free throws. He also had one steal.

My oh my. What a game by Wallace as he tied his career-high in points, which he set earlier this month. No Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams meant a glut of possessions were up for grabs. In this stretch without those two, the 22-year-old has taken full advantage of the newfound opportunities.

Playing with all-time confidence, Wallace has figured out how to slice through NBA defenses. This time, it was against one of the best in Toronto. Patient with the ball in his hands, he dissected the Raptors with simple drives to the basket and standard finishes through traffic. Nobody could stay in front of him once he leaped off the floor for the driving layup.

Wallace had 17 points in the first half. He had 13 points in the second frame alone. Usually a designated catch-and-shoot guy, he had the creative freedom to knock down outside jumpers off a pull-up. To think, just a month ago, you cringed anytime he took more than two dribbles with the ball.

After the Raptors tied things up at 101 points, the Thunder quickly needed to figure out who'd carry them over the finish line. Most nights, it's Gilgeous-Alexander or Williams. Or even Ajay Mitchell. But all three remained out. So of course, Wallace did so with a couple of straight-line drives and big-time defensive stops.

I mean, what an all-around game by Wallace. He's turned into a full-time point guard. Some folks prefer to learn on the job. Think it's fair to say he fits in that category. Not only have the scoring numbers jumped up, but the playmaking has caught most folks' attention.

Nothing crazy, but Wallace is simply making the right reads. Whether that's scooping the ball over to someone at the dunker's spot or spraying it out in the perimeter. When he joined the NBA, it felt like that aspect of his game had the most room to grow. And for the first time in three seasons, he's learned to orchestrate OKC's offense.

LET CASO COOK ♨️ pic.twitter.com/lXtQwbdtyi

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) February 25, 2026

Anotha one 🥵 pic.twitter.com/3ctC7Aj8Sh

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) February 25, 2026

Turning defense to offense ↔️ pic.twitter.com/WgLdaVPZFD

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) February 25, 2026

What a finish from Caso ‼️ pic.twitter.com/bSBveu0fTy

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) February 25, 2026

Isaiah Joe: A-plus

Catching Wallace's pass from the left-wing spot, Joe quickly got into his shooting motion and drilled the ball through the basket from the perimeter. The outside jumper opened a third quarter that saw the 26-year-old completely go unconscious.

Joe finished with 22 points on 7-of-14 shooting, three assists and two rebounds. He shot 6-of-11 from 3 and went 2-of-2 on free throws. He also had two steals.

Speaking of guys who've stepped up in the recent bevy of injuries, Joe has completely changed his season outlook for the better. You're seeing him play some of his best basketball over the last three weeks. To the point that the rare 20-point treat has turned into the norm.

The early parts of this game felt like we were going to see an old-school rockfight. Neither team could generate consistent offense. Eventually, though, the Thunder upped the scoring to the modern NBA. You can thank Joe's sizzling third quarter for some of that.

Joe scored 19 points in the third quarter. He made five outside jumpers. To show you how much he was feeling himself, he knocked down a deep 3-pointer despite Jamison Battle's flagrant foul of invading his landing space. A few possessions later, Walter was ticketed for another 4-point play as OKC's sharpshooter swished in another jumper.

The Thunder eventually ballooned their lead to 25 points. Joe was the main catalyst for that as they kept feeding him the ball. While they slowly lost their ginourmous lead, it gave them enough cushion where three points in eight minutes wasn't catastrophic.

We got a hot cuppa Joe for you ☕️ pic.twitter.com/bWEb6g9IgO

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) February 25, 2026

ISAIAH. JOE. 😳 pic.twitter.com/gu0mEXRyuj

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) February 25, 2026

Another stop. Another bucket. 🔋 pic.twitter.com/b1Cy9kGHtS

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) February 25, 2026

Alex Caruso: A-plus

Hovering in the paint, Caruso jumped Collin Murray-Boyles' roll. He punched the ball out of his hand before he found Dort for the transition 3-pointer. The defense-to-offense sequence was part of OKC's third-quarter avalanche to completely break open the scoreboard.

Caruso finished with 16 points on 6-of-10 shooting, four assists and two rebounds. He shot 2-of-5 from 3 and went 2-of-2 on free throws. He also had two steals.

Stepping up as a scorer, Caruso had 14 points in the first half. He didn't do anything flashy. No isolation looks or breaking someone's ankles. Just good, solid basketball plays. He had a handful of layups by being at the right place at the right time. He even knocked down a couple of outside jumpers.

On the other end, Caruso helped the Thunder defend their butt off. The Raptors didn't really see anyone have a monster scoring night. Several guys were decent, but you can chalk some of that up to unreal outside shooting luck. The mediocre shooting team had one of its better nights from deep.

Even though Caruso came off the bench, the Thunder view him as one of their most important players. There's a reason why he's a plus-minus darling. The advanced analytics absolutely love what he brings to the court despite mundane counting stats.

The Thunder don't win this without Caruso. He was part of their closing lineup for a reason. The 31-year-old might play a physically-taxing style of basketball, but you can easily help manage his workload for these types of nights where he can swing a game's flow.

This AC is 🔛🥶 pic.twitter.com/ogB44GB5Jy

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) February 25, 2026

Lu Dort: A

Going for the pump-fake, Dort drove to the basket. Nudging Barrett off of him, he swished in the pull-up mid-range jumper. Over. The self-created bucket put the Thunder ahead by eight points with a little over a minute left in the game.

Dort finished with 15 points on 5-of-16 shooting, five rebounds and three assists. He shot 3-of-9 from 3 and went 2-of-2 on free throws. He also had one steal.

You never gotta worry about Dort getting gun-shy. If the possessions are there, the 26-year-old will gladly eat them up himself. He had a busy night from beyond the perimeter. He also returned to his mid-range game as the Thunder badly needed the points. No matter how pretty or ugly they looked.

Visiting Toronto is always a special yearly event for Dort. He tries to show off in front of his home country. This time, he did it by locking down Ingram once again. Those two have a history that goes way back. From their 2024 NBA playoff series to the latter's nasty ankle injury he sustained in New Orleans last year.

In this latest chapter, Dort made Ingram uncomfortable. The Toronto All-Star had a meh 15 points on 14 shot attempts. He mostly settled for contested jumpers. You can tell that the physical defender made him timid once again. It feels like the All-Defense member has his number.

LUUUUU 👌 pic.twitter.com/HPODzlqyIx

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) February 25, 2026

Lu with the stepback 🤌 pic.twitter.com/Yt08m98EwS

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) February 25, 2026

Highlights:

This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: Player grades: Thunder avoid disaster in 116-107 win over Raptors

The Kansas City Royals are entering the 2026 season with a mix of established talent and rising prospects, and one name generating increasing buzz is Carter Jensen. As the organization continues building toward sustained contention, Jensen’s development behind the plate has become one of the most compelling storylines of the spring.

A third‑round pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, Jensen has steadily worked his way through the minor leagues, earning a reputation for his advanced approach at the plate and leadership behind it. His progression has come at the perfect time for Kansas City, which is beginning to think about the future at catcher beyond veteran Salvador Perez.

Jensen’s 2025 MLB debut offered a strong glimpse of what he can become. In 20 games, he hit .300 with a .391 on‑base percentage and a .941 OPS, adding three home runs and 13 RBIs. Those numbers, even in a small sample, stand out for a young catcher adjusting to big league pitching while handling the demands of the position. It reinforced the belief that his bat is much closer to being MLB‑ready than initially expected.

That growing confidence was echoed by manager Matt Quatraro, who did not hold back when discussing Jensen’s upside.

“He's a rat. He's going to do everything in his power to be as good as he can be... you've gotta think sky is the limit [for him],” Quatraro said on an MLB Network appearance this week.

Royals manager Matt Quatraro on MLB's No. 18 prospect Carter Jensen:

“He's a rat. He's going to do everything in his power to be as good as he can be... you've gotta think sky is the limit [for him].”

MLB Network + @SageUSAmericapic.twitter.com/0Bl2NrktJp

— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) February 24, 2026

The praise speaks to Jensen’s work ethic and makeup just as much as his on‑field performance. Being labeled as someone who will outwork others carries weight inside a clubhouse, especially for a young player trying to carve out a significant role.

Ranked as the No. 18 overall prospect in baseball, Jensen enters the 2026 season as a legitimate American League Rookie of the Year candidate. His ability to contribute offensively while continuing to develop defensively could make him one of the more impactful young players in the league.

For the Royals, this development is significant on multiple levels. Not only does it give them a potential long‑term answer at catcher, but it also strengthens a lineup aiming to take another step forward in a competitive American League landscape.

If Jensen continues trending upward, Kansas City may have found its next cornerstone player, one capable of helping lead the organization into its next era of contention as long as he stays healthy.

English football icon Harry Redknapp told AFP that his late grandmother, the inspiration for his love of horse racing, "wouldn't believe" he had a horse that is "running in the (Cheltenham) Gold Cup".

Redknapp owns The Jukebox Man, who is vying for favouritism for the race that is regarded as the blue riband of jumps racing and the climax to the Cheltenham Festival on March 13.

"It would be a dream wouldn't it," said Redknapp of winning it.

"I love my racing. Football, obviously, has been my life but yeah, the Gold Cup would be really special."

The Ben Pauling-trained star has already won the prestigious King George VI Chase, last December, which Redknapp said was "beyond my wildest dreams".

The former Tottenham Hotspur and Portsmouth manager's love of the 'Sport of Kings' was sparked by his "nan" Maggie Brown in the 1950's.

Redknapp, who guided Portsmouth to 2008 FA Cup glory, said nevertheless she would never have imagined it leading to her grandson mixing with the elite of jumps racing.       

"You know she had 10 kids; lived in the East End of London; survived, like them all, through the war," Redknapp said after watching The Jukebox Man gallop at Pauling's stables near Cheltenham on Monday.

"She wouldn't believe that I was hobnobbing with all these people and owning a horse that's running in the Gold Cup."

Redknapp, who was linked with becoming England manager in 2012, said that Brown had run bets for a bookmaker -- Cyril the paperboy -- which was illegal at the time.

"She was great she was," said Redknapp.

"She loved a bet, that was her life having a little bet, taking the bets off the old girls in the street.

"Then Cyril the paperboy, he was 60-odd and he was still called the paperboy, would come round.

"Trilby hat, suit, shirt and tie, shoes polished, had a little whoop whoop 'Star and Evening Standard, Star and Evening Standard', and my nan would drop the bets in."

- 'I lost him' -

Brown, though, did not let Redknapp sit around kicking his heels.

"My nan would come over to dinner and she would get me to pick out three horses," said Redknapp.

"I couldn't read or write but I'm picking three horses out of the paper for her.

"There was no science behind picking horses in those days."

However, Brown was not always the one who landed a winner for the family.

Redknapp's mum worked in a cake factory and had landed 100/1 chance Foinavon in the sweep for the 1967 Grand National.

He came home clear having avoided a mass pile-up at the 23rd of the 30 fences -- which is now named after him.

The roars of delight probably shook the very foundations of the family home.

Redknapp, who turns 79 on March 2, has been an owner since he was managing Bournemouth in the mid 1980's, and whilst there have been many good days, he has known bad days too.

"I had a lovely horse with Alan King called Bygones In Brid," said Redknapp.

"He comes to the first hurdle, the sun was so bright he'd run straight into it, went down and never got up.

"That was it, I lost him.

"So yeah, it's good days, bad days in this game, isn't it?"

Redknapp sees similarities between being a football manager and a horse trainer.

"Most important? Good staff, getting the best out of them, looking after them, make them feel they're all doing a good job," he said.

"I think that's what he (Pauling) does, they've all been with him a long time and they all seem to enjoy working in the environment."

His biggest regret is never having had a horse trained by former England international Mick Channon, who enjoyed a lot of success on the flat.

That did not stop them enjoying a memorable day at Salisbury racecourse, with legendary hellraiser and Northern Irish footballing legend George Best.

"George was playing at Bournemouth," said Redknapp.

"We ended up having a day out with Bally (1966 World Cup winner Alan Ball) and Channon and we all ended up in a pub round the corner at about nine o'clock at night, after an afternoon meeting.

"Don't ask me how we got home!"

pi/bc

WACO, Texas (AP) — Jaden Bradley scored 25 points, Brayden Burries had 24 and No. 2 Arizona outlasted Baylor 87-80 on Tuesday night, giving the Wildcats a two-game lead atop the Big 12 standings with three to play in the regular season.

The Wildcats erased a 10-point deficit early in the second half, then had to withstand a back-and-forth finish. There was a 13 1/2-minute stretch in which the margin never was more than two points and the lead changed hands 13 times.

Tobe Awaka had 10 points and 13 rebounds for Arizona (26-2, 13-2), which has won its last three games since back-to-back losses that followed a 23-0 start to the season. Motiejus Krivas finished with 12 points.

Cameron Carr had 26 points for Baylor (14-14, 4-11). Isaac Williams scored 16 and freshman Tounde Yessoufou added 12.

The remaining four contenders for the Big 12 regular-season title all have 11-4 conference records: No. 4 Iowa State, No. 5 Houston, No. 14 Kansas and No. 16 Texas Tech.

Arizona finally took the lead for good on Bradley's long jumper from the right wing that made it 76-75 with 4:04 left. Burries added a short jumper a minute later.

Baylor led 44-34 when Yessoufou opened the second half with a 3-pointer on a kick-out pass from Williams.

The Wildcats responded with a 14-2 run and had their first lead since the game’s first four minutes. They went up 48-46 on two free throws by Krivas less than a minute after he made a tying jumper.

Both teams shot 49.2% from the field, with Arizona making 30 of 61 shots and Baylor hitting 29 of 59.

Up next

Arizona hosts Kansas on Saturday and Iowa State on Monday night.

Baylor plays Saturday at UCF.

___

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The Boston Celtics didn't give the Phoenix Suns any breathing room on Tuesday night, allowing just 35 points in the second half en route to a blowout 97-81 win in Arizona. This lack of scoring isn't exclusive to the Suns, though, as the Celtics have held their opponents to 100 points or fewer in eight of their last 12 games.

With Celtics star Jaylen Brown sidelined with a right knee contusion (on the first leg of a back-to-back set of games), guard Derrick White picked up the scoring slack. He finished with a game-high 22 points to go along with 8 rebounds and 8 assists in 34 minutes of play. Celtics starters Sam Hauser, Neemias Queta, and Baylor Scheierman also all scored in double figures. And while Ron Harper Jr. — who was making the second start of his young NBA career — didn't reach double digits, he still put together a solid outing with 8 points, 5 rebounds, and 1 monster block.

GET THAT 🤬 OUTTA HERE pic.twitter.com/xQHVL5Q0Ae

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) February 25, 2026

The Suns weren't fully healthy either. Due to injury, they were missing 5-time All-Star Devin Booker, forward Dillon Brooks, and guard Jordan Goodwin. Phoenix shot under 40% from the floor and 3-point land and managed just 11 points in the third quarter. Guard Collin Gillespie led the way in the losing effort with 15 points and 3 assists in 27 minutes.

Following the 16-point win, the Celtics have won nine of their last 10 games and boast a perfect 8-0 record against the Pacific Division. Moreover, Boston's 14-6 record against Western Conference teams is the best of any Eastern Conference squad.

The 38-19 Celtics will look to remain perfect on their four-game road trip out West when they face the 36-22 Denver Nuggets on Wednesday night.

But before that pivotal showdown, let's take a look at some of the best photos from the Celtics' dominant win over the Suns.

Listen to "Havlicek Stole the Pod" on:

Blue Wire: https://tiny.ee/CdKp 

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This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Celtics put on a defensive show vs. the Suns en route to ninth win in last 10 games

USA goalie Connor Hellebuyck joins list of 15 athletes to receive Presidential Medal of Freedom from Donald Trump originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck of the Team USA men's ice hockey team, in attendance at the State of the Union, will be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

President Donald Trump announced his intention to honor Hellebuyck during the address. The nation's highest civilian honor, Hellebuyck will become the first hockey player to receive the Medal of Freedom.

Hellebuyck was nearly perfect in the gold medal game against Canada, making 41 saves in the dramatic 2-1 overtime win. Hellebuyck, who plays for the Winnipeg Jets, helped the Americans to win their first gold medal since the 'Miracle on Ice' in 1980 at Lake Placid, New York.

President Trump said he asked members of the U.S. team to vote on whether or not Hellebuyck should be awarded the coveted Presidential Medal of Freedom, which has since resulted in the presentation of the award.

MORE:Ranking Connor Hellebuyck's 5 best saves from USA gold medal win

"I’ll soon be presenting Connor with our highest civilian honor - it’s been given to many athletes over the years,” Trump said. "When I say many, not too many - like 12. It’s the highest civilian honor in the country - the Presidential Medal of Freedom ... Great athletes have gotten that very great, the best. And I thought he deserved it. And I did take a vote, the members of this great hockey squad will be very happy to hear based on their vote and my vote, and in this case, my vote was more important, that I will soon be presenting Connor with our highest civilian honor."

Naturally, Trump's comments begs the question: Which other athletes have received the award?

Athletes awards Presidential Medal of Freedom by Donald Trump

The connection between sports and the Presidential Medal of Freedom dates back to 1963 and the inaugural list of recipients.

Among the first 31 recipients, as selected by President John F. Kennedy and awarded by President Lyndon B. Johnson, was renowned swimming coach Robert J.H. Kiphuth. The first athlete awarded the honor was track and field star Jesse Owens who received it in 1976 from President Gerald Ford.

MORE: USA-Canada TV ratings were historic but not the most ever for Olympics hockey

Hellebuyck, in addition to becoming the first hockey player to receive the award, will be the 15th sports figure to receive the honor from President Trump.

Curious to see the entire list of names? Here is every single recipient.

No date has been officially announced for Hellebuyck to receive the award.

More Olympics news

• Why Donald Trump call, Kash Patel celebration with USA hockey caused mixed reactions
• U.S. men's hockey team racked up an absurd 6-figure bill partying in Miami
• What President Trump said about U.S. women's hockey after Olympics

Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

It hasn't been the easiest season for Arizona State head coach Bobby Hurley. Those struggles continued Tuesday in a 90-78 loss to TCU.

A sideline scuffle between the two teams resulted in Hurley getting knocked to the floor early in the second half. The fun began when a trap by Arizona State's Andrija Grbović and Bryce Ford forced a timeout, with the two continuing to be physical with TCU's Brock Harding after the whistle.

Players, coaches and staff from both teams rushed to the Sun Devils' sideline once the shoving began, with Hurley physically pushing back Horned Frogs center Vianney Salatchoum. TCU head coach Jamie Dixon then got involved, and Hurley appeared to fall down after tripping over someone's feet.

The incident didn't result in any ejections, nor did Hurley appear harmed by the fall.

Regardless, it was another bad day for a coach widely seen as being on the hot seat as the calendar nears March. Tuesday's loss marks a second straight loss for Arizona State, which lost 73-68 to Baylor on Saturday. 

The Sun Devils now hold a 5-10 record in Big 12 play, tying them for 12th worst in the conference. They finished 15th last year with a 4-16 record as well.

Hurley outright admitted to having "failed" to get through to his team last month and his contract expires at the end of this season, making it easy for Arizona State to move on if it chooses.

The No. 11 Virginia Cavaliers rolled past NC State, 90-51, in Charlottesville in an emphatic performance on both ends of the floor in their second game on the newly named Tony Bennett Court.

The Cavaliers set the tone early with defense, honoring their old coach by holding the Wolfpack to just 19 first-half points (the first “Tony” on the new court) and 61 total. On the other end, Virginia looked more like the group we saw earlier in the season during out-of-conference play, especially after halftime. 

UVA exploded for 59 second-half points and put five players in double figures: Thijs De Ridder (19), Sam Lewis (16), Jacari White (15), Malik Thomas (12), and Chance Mallory (11).

With NC State entering the night sitting fourth in the ACC standings, this looked like a legitimate test at the start of Virginia’s biggest week of the season. The Cavaliers passed it with ease, moving to 25-3 and setting up a massive showdown Saturday at No. 1 Duke in Cameron Indoor Stadium. 

Here are five takeaways from the win:

Virginia’s defense set the tone immediately

Virginia’s best stretch of the first half came on the defensive end, when the Cavaliers opened up a 15-5 run over the first 9:38 by completely disrupting NC State’s rhythm.

As has often been the case, the interior defense led the way. Johann Gruenloh and Ugonna Onyenso anchored the paint and made life miserable at the rim for the Wolfpack. Even without much offensive production, the two bigs combined for 12 blocks, with Gruenloh posting a new career high with eight. 

That kind of rim protection took an NC State offense that came in averaging 84.9 points per game and knocked it off schedule early.

UVA’s offense started slow again – but the defense gave it time to settle in

For as sharp as Virginia was defensively in the opening half, the offense took a while to find its footing. 

Loose ball-handling and some sloppy passing led to seven first-half turnovers, which kept the Cavaliers from establishing consistent rhythm in the half court. It wasn’t pretty early, but Virginia’s defense gave the offense enough margin to work through it. 

That’s part of what made this performance so encouraging: even while the offense struggled, Virginia still controlled the game and went into halftime comfortably in front at 32-19.

However, with the Cavaliers headed to Cameron Indoor this weekend and sights set on a potential deep NCAA tournament run, these offensive struggles to start games are definitely a cause for concern.

Virginia found another gear in the second half

Virginia came out of the halftime break shooting well, but NC State didn’t go away quietly. The Wolfpack answered with a few big shots to keep things from getting out of hand early in the half, with Paul McNeil Jr. leading the way with 22 points.

Then came the turning point.

About two and a half minutes into the second half, a scuffle led to technical fouls for Sam Lewis, Darrion Williams, and Scottie Ebube, who was ejected. From that point on, it felt like the game got personal for Virginia and the Cavaliers responded by playing some of their best basketball of the season over the final 15 minutes.

You could see it all over Thijs de Ridder, who played with real edge down the stretch and hammered home multiple dunks. He finished with 19 points, his third straight game in double figures, and quieted any concerns about a late-season dip after a couple of quieter outings in ACC play.

De Ridder did leave the game with about four minutes remaining after banging knees with an NC State player, but it appeared to be precautionary. He was smiling on the bench with under a minute to play.

The “Bench Mob” delivered again

Virginia’s second unit has been a weapon all season, and it showed again Wednesday night.

The Cavaliers’ bench outscored NC State’s bench 32-5, continuing a trend that has defined this team: depth, energy, and reliable production. Virginia has leaned on that depth all year to create sparks and keep its starters fresher late in games.

Jacari White was a huge part of that again, finishing with 15 points and going 4-for-5 from three. Since switching from the brace to a less restrictive wrap, his shooting stroke has looked much more like itself, a development that could be huge for Virginia down the stretch.

Chance Mallory (11 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists) and Ugonna Onyenso (4 points, 4 blocks) also made major contributions off the bench.

This game also marked the return of Devin Tillis after a one-game absence. He didn’t score, but his 12 minutes mattered, especially in helping give De Ridder a breather after his 36-minute outing against Miami.

Virginia locked up a top-four ACC Tournament seed and set up a massive Saturday at Duke

This was a massive win for UVA, and not just because of how dominant it looked against one of the ACC’s better teams.

With the win, the Cavaliers clinched a double bye in the ACC Tournament, meaning they would need just three wins to take the conference title in Charlotte. That matters — especially this time of year, when rest and depth become even more valuable.

The 29-point margin also gave Virginia a major analytics boost, jumping the Cavaliers from No.19 to No. 14 in KenPom, a significant leap this late in the season.

And now comes the one everyone has been circling.

Virginia’s win sets up the battle with No. 1 Duke on Saturday at noon (ESPN) in what could very well decide the ACC regular-season title. The Cavaliers sit one game behind the Blue Devils, and a win in Durham would move Virginia into first place thanks to the head-to-head tiebreaker.

With Wake Forest and Virginia Tech still left on the schedule after Duke, a win on Saturday would put Virginia in a strong position to control its own path the rest of the way.

The Cubs remain on the prowl for a spot in the Colorado basketball elite.

Timnath's boys and girls basketball teams each remain ranked inside the Class 4A top 5 with sterling seasons as playoffs approach.

That continued in the penultimate regular-season games. The teams swept rival Wellington squads, blowing the Eagles out twice in a Feb. 24 home doubleheader.

Here's how the Cubs squads got the big wins:

Timnath girls stifle Wellington with patented defense

It's hard to do better than a first-quarter shutout.

The Timnath girls didn't allow a point for the first 11-plus minutes, leading by 19 at halftime and beating the Eagles 58-23.

It was another dominant defensive effort for this Cubs girls squad. Opposing teams are now scoring just 36.8 points per game against them this season.

Junior forward Olivia Zadeh led a balanced offensive effort with 16 points, while Tiana Guzman added nine more.

Timnath (18-4) is now 12-3 in a rugged Longs Peak League and ranked No. 1 in CHSAA's 4A seeding index. The only losses this season have come against conference foes Roosevelt (twice) and Thompson Valley, both of which are top-10 seeds in the 5A playoffs.

The Cubs made the 4A semifinals last season and are right back in the hunt with a deep, experienced lineup under second-year head coach Kyle Crawford.

CHSAA will announce regional pairings and postseason seeds for Classes 4A and below on March 2.

Timnath boys blow out Eagles early

The story wasn't all that different for the Timnath boys.

The Cubs stormed out to a 20-point lead while allowing just two first-quarter points en route to a 69-29 win over Wellington.

Four players scored in double figures, led by Jack Hemme with 14 points. Max Roselle had 11 points behind a trio of 3-pointers, Cody Nelson added 11 more and Dylan Mock dropped 10, including eight first-quarter points.

Now 19-3 overall (12-3 in conference), the Timnath boys are No. 4 in the 4A seeding index rankings heading into the Feb. 26 season finale vs. Berthoud.

The Cubs got a taste of the Denver Coliseum last season, pulling a regional upset to make the 4A Great 8 and returning nearly the entire rotation with eight seniors with head coach Brian Gustafson.

Timnath will be at home for regional play (March 6-7) and will be on the shortlist of 4A favorites in the playoffs.

Chris Abshire covers high school and community sports for the Coloradoan.

This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: Top-5 Timnath teams keep looking like Colorado 4A basketball elite

Dolphins predicted to sign quarterback with ties to new head coach originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Miami Dolphins have already undergone some big changes this offseason, and more are likely coming. 

There's a new general manager and a new head coach in town, and there could be a new quarterback as well. Tua Tagovailoa was benched during the 2025 season and it seems clear that the quarterback doesn't have a future in Miami. 

The Dolphins have already gotten rid of high-priced veterans like Bradley Chubb and Tyreek Hill this offseason, so they may not mind eating Tagovailoa's dead money. 

However, with no Tagovailoa, who will the team turn to? Quinn Ewers showed some flashes in 2025, but the team would likely want a more experienced option. 

Zachary Jacobson of PFSN recently identified Malik Willis as a logical option for the Dolphins. Willis was in Green Bay with new head coach Jeff Hafley and new general manager Jon Eric-Sullivan, so they would know what they're getting. 

Regarding this fit, Jacobson offered the following: 

In an appearance on “The Rich Eisen Show,” ESPN’s Benjamin Solak listed the New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, Arizona Cardinals, and Miami Dolphins as the teams that make the most sense for Willis. “I don’t think Willis is going to get insanely overpaid, but it’s not a year to walk into the draft needing a quarterback,” Solak said. “I can’t stress that enough.”

As for the Dolphins, the connections with Willis are obvious. Jon Eric-Sullivan was just hired as the team’s next general manager after ascending the ranks in the Packers’ front office over the last two decades.

In 2025, Willis played in four games and threw for 422 yards with three touchdowns and zero interceptions. The quarterback also rushed for 123 yards and two scores in his limited play time in 2025, showcasing the dual-threat ability that intrigued teams before he was drafted. 

There's just one small problem with Willis: he may be too expensive. ESPN's Bill Barnwell recently predicted that Willis could get $30 million per year in free agency, which could be out of the Dolphins' range. 

If the Dolphins are able to get Willis, though, it would be hard not to be excited. The dual-threat quarterback could thrive in Miami with weapons like Jaylen Waddle and De'Von Achane at his disposal. 

More NFL news:

• Bills urged to pull of big trade for star receiver 
• Cardinals predicted to draft new QB for Mike LaFleur
• Tyler Shough needs more weapons in 2026 
• Titans predicted to add solid defender for new defensive scheme
• Could Chiefs draft elite running back in 1st round?
• Mike McCarthy may not want Aaron Rodgers back 

NORMAN, Okla. (AP) — Nijel Pack scored 22 points, Mohamed Wague added 18 points and Oklahoma used its first-half eruption to ride out a 91-79 win over Auburn on Tuesday night.

Wague made 10 of 12 foul shots, Derrion Reid scored 16 points and Xzayvier Brown 14 for Oklahoma (14-14, 4-11 Big 12) to end its two-game losing streak.

Keyshawn Hall scored 26 points and made all 11 of his foul shots and Kevin Overton scored 26 with the help of 5-for-10 shooting from distance for Auburn (15-13, 6-9).

It was Oklahoma's first 90-point plus scoring effort since a 92-91 win over then 15th-ranked Vanderbilt on Feb. 7.

The Sooners shot a higher percentage from 3-point range — 71.4% (10 for 14) — than their 58.3% mark (7 of 12) from the foul line before halftime.

Following Overton's 3-pointer to get Auburn within 33-31 with 7:55 before halftime, the Sooners went on an 11-3 run over the next three-and-a-half minutes to build their first double-digit lead to 44-34 with 4:31 left before the break.

The Sooners led 51-42 at halftime and stayed ahead by double digits for most of the second half.

Up Next

Auburn: Hosts Ole Miss on Saturday.

Oklahoma: Travels to LSU on Saturday.

___

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SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Joshua Jefferson scored 21 points, Milan Momcilovic made four 3-pointers to break the Iowa State record for 3s in a season, and the fourth-ranked Cyclones beat Utah 75-59 on Tuesday night.

Momcilovic entered the game with 100 3-pointers and surpassed Dedric Willoughby's record of 102, set in 1997, when he hit back-to-back 3s in the second half. The 6-foot-8 junior forward has 104 after going 4 of 8 from deep against the Utes; he is shooting better than 50% from long range. He finished with 14 points.

Making its first visit to Salt Lake City, Iowa State (24-4, 11-4 Big 12) held Utah without a field goal — seven straight misses — over a stretch of 9:14 in the second half to turn a five-point lead into a 17-point advantage.

Jefferson recorded his 34th consecutive game in double figures. Jamarion Batemon added 13 points.

Terrence Brown scored 18 points, Don McHenry had 14 and Keanu Dawes added 10 points and 12 rebounds for the Utes (10-18, 2-13), who have lost nine of 10.

The Cyclones' pressure defense sped up the Utes' ballhandlers, delaying their offensive sets and forcing them into 18 turnovers.

Utah led 12-10 before the Cyclones got three steals to spark a 12-0 run. Iowa State built an 11-point first-half lead as the Cyclones scored 14 points off 11 Utah turnovers.

This was the only game in a stretch of five for Iowa State that wasn't against a ranked opponent. The Cyclones are 3-1 so far, having beaten Kansas and Houston at home before losing at No. 19 BYU on Saturday.

Up next

Iowa State hosts No. 16 Texas Tech on Saturday.

Utah visits Arizona State on Saturday.

___

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CLEVELAND (AP) — Donovan Mitchell scored 23 points, James Harden added 20 and the Cleveland Cavaliers pulled away in the second half for a 109-94 victory over the New York Knicks on Tuesday night.

Jarrett Allen had 19 points and 10 rebounds as the Cavaliers won for the eighth time in nine games.

Jalen Brunson had 20 points and Mikal Bridges scored 18 for the Knicks. Mitchell Robinson pulled down 15 rebounds, one off a season high.

New York shot 35 of 86 as Bridges and Brunson were a combined 12 of 36. The Knicks shot 27% from 3-point range (10 of 37). Cleveland came into the game with the fourth-worst defense in the league on 3-pointers.

The Cavaliers and Knicks are both 37-22 and tied for third place in the Eastern Conference. But New York would have the head-to-head tiebreaker edge if the teams are tied at the end of the season after taking two of three meetings.

76ERS 135, PACERS 114

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Joel Embiid had 27 points in his return to the lineup after missing five games with right shin soreness and right knee injury management, Tyrese Maxey scored 32 points, and Philadelphia beat Indiana.

Embiid scored 20 points in the first half, sinking 11 of 17 shots in 26 minutes. VJ Edgecombe chipped in with 23 points on 9-of-13 shooting for the 76ers, who shot 58%.

Andrew Nembhard and Micah Potter each scored 23 for the Pacers, with Potter’s total a career high. Quenton Jackson had 15 points and rookie Kam Jones added a career-high 13 points.

Pacers leading scorer Pascal Siakam was out with a left wrist sprain. The Pacers also were without Aaron Nesmith, who missed his third consecutive game with right ankle sprain.

Indiana shot 42% from the field and committed 16 turnovers. Philadelphia held a 44-41 rebounding edge with Maxey leading the way with nine rebounds. Jarace Walker had 10 rebounds for the Pacers.

The 76ers showed their dominance inside with a 82-52 edge in points in the paint.

MAVERICKS 123, NETS 114

NEW YORK (AP) — Marvin Bagley III scored 22 points, Naji Marshall had 21 and Dallas beat Brooklyn after both teams arrived in New York earlier in the day.

Both clubs played road games on Sunday and neither was able to fly into the New York area because of a blizzard. The Mavericks stayed in Indiana and the Nets remained in Atlanta. Both flew Tuesday and arrived in the early afternoon.

The change in schedule didn’t affect the Mavericks, who scored a season-high 76 points in the first half and won their second straight after a 10-game skid.

Brandon Williams had 19 points and 10 assists, while Klay Thompson added 17 points for the Mavericks, who shot 58.5% from the field while playing their fourth consecutive game without No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg because of a sprained left foot.

THUNDER 116, RAPTORS 107

TORONTO (AP) — Cason Wallace matched his career high with 27 points, Isaiah Joe had 22, and short-handed Oklahoma City beat Toronto for its fifth win in six games.

Alex Caruso scored 16 points, Luguentz Dort had 15 and Isaiah Hartenstein 11 as the NBA-leading Thunder won their third straight in Toronto.

Oklahoma City is an NBA-best 21-7 on the road.

Canadian star and reigning NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remained sidelined for the Thunder because of an abdominal strain. He didn’t travel with the team on its lone regular-season visit to Canada.

In his place, Wallace provided his second straight 20-point game, adding six assists and eight rebounds.

Oklahoma City was also without Ajay Mitchell (abdominal strain) and Jalen Williams (strained right hamstring). Caruso returned after missing Sunday’s home win over Cleveland because of a sprained left ankle.

RJ Barrett scored 21 points and Immanuel Quickley and Ja’Kobe Walter each had 17 but the Raptors lost for the first time in three games.

Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram each scored 15 points and Jamal Shead added 13.

HAWKS 119 WIZARDS 98

ATLANTA (AP) — Jonathan Kuminga scored a season-high 27 points in his debut for the Hawks, who blew hapless Washington in Trae Young’s return to Atlanta.

Acquired by the Hawks at the trade deadline after falling out of favor in Golden State, Kuminga came off the bench to make a huge impact for his new team.

He delivered a thunderous dunk shortly after taking the court for the first time near the midway point of the first quarter, breaking into a big smile as he headed the other way.

That was only the start of Kuminga’s big night. Having completed his recovery from a left knee bone bruise, the high-flying forward from Congo knocked down a trio of 3-pointers to go along with seven rebounds, four assists and two steals in 24 1/2 minutes.

Young was the focus at the beginning of the night. The longtime Hawks star was dealt to the Wizards in early January, ending an eight-year tenure that included four All-Star Game berths and an improbable run to the Eastern Conference finals in 2021.

The point guard has yet to play for his new team, which seems mainly concerned with landing a high draft pick for next season as Young recovers from knee and quadriceps injuries.

HORNETS 131, BULLS 99

CHICAGO (AP) — Brandon Miller scored 23 points, Kon Knueppel added 21, and hot-shooting Charlotte won a team record eighth straight road game, routing Chicago.

The Hornets shot 51.6% from the field and were on-target from beyond the arc, sinking 25 of 57 3-points attempts, one shy of the team record.

LaMelo Ball scored points 16 and Miles Bridges also had 16 in his return from a suspension. The Hornets outscored the Bulls 42-16 in the third quarter — including a decisive 22-2 run — and handed the Bulls a 10th straight loss, matching their longest slide since January 2019.

Matas Buzelis scored a career-high 32 points for Chicago, which was hurt by turnovers — 19 in this one. Patrick Williams and Guerschon Yabusele each had 11 points.

Knueppel finished with three 3-pointers on six attempts to up his long-range field goals total to 201. Playing in his 58th game he became the fastest player to reach 200 3s.

PELICANS 113, WARRIORS 109

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Zion Williamson scored 26 points, Dejounte Murray added 13 in his first game in nearly 13 months, and New Orleans beat injury-depleted Golden State.

Saddiq Bey scored 18 points, including a reverse layup he spun off the glass while being fouled to give New Orleans a 107-101 lead with 1:47 left. Former Warriors guard Jordan Poole added 12 points for New Orleans, which won its second straight and posted its fourth victory in six games.

De’Anthony Melton scored a season-high 28 points for Golden State, but missed a free throw with 1:23 left and his team trailing by just four points.

Moses Moody scored 24 for the Warriors, who’ve lost three of four while taking the court missing several key players.

The Warriors played without Stephen Curry (right knee), Kristaps Porzingis (illness) and Al Horford (left toe). Curry, who has missed eight straight games, did not make the trip to New Orleans, coach Steve Kerr said. Only nine Warriors saw action in the game.

BUCKS 128, HEAT 117

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Kevin Porter Jr. matched his season high with 32 points and Bobby Portis and Ryan Rollins scored 21 apiece as Milwaukee beat Miami for its fourth win in five games.

Kyle Kuzma added 19 points and Ousmane Dieng 11 for the Bucks.

Norman Powell scored 26 points, Bam Adebayo finished with 18 points and nine rebounds and Andrew Wiggins had 16 points for the Heat, who had their three-game winning streak halted.

Tyler Herro and Kel’el Ware each scored 14 points and Pelle Larsson 10 for Miami. Davion Mitchell, who returned after missing a game due to illness, added eight points and eight assists.

CELTICS 97, SUNS 81

PHOENIX (AP) — Derrick White scored 22 points, Neemias Queta had 14 points and 13 rebounds, and Boston used a big third quarter to beat Phoenix.

Sam Hauser shot 6 for 14, including 4 for 10 from 3-point range, to add 16 points and the Celtics — playing without All-Star Jaylen Brown (right knee contusion) — won their fourth in a row and for the ninth time in their last 10 games.

Baylor Scheierman had 11 points and 11 rebounds.

Collin Gillespie had 15 points and Grayson Allen scored 14 as the Suns lost for the fourth time in their last five games. The Suns played without their top two scorers, Devin Booker (right hip strain) and Dillon Brooks (left hand fracture), who combined average nearly 46 points per game.

The Celtics led 50-46 at halftime but took control by outscoring the Suns 30-11 in the third quarter, including a 16-0 run.

The Florida State Seminoles (14-13, 7-7) hosted a huge ACC matchup against their in-state rival Miami Hurricanes (21-6, 10-4) on Tuesday night. The Seminoles were hoping to continue their late-season momentum and extend their six-game win streak over the Hurricanes, who have had a huge season under Jai Lucas, their first-year coach.

The game was close throughout, with both squads trading momentum swings. Until the last four minutes, this game was relatively even. After that, Miami pulled away under the domination of Tre Donaldson, a Tallahassee native, with his closing 7-0 run sealing the deal for Miami to beat Florida State 83-73.

First Half

Both teams came out of the gate aggressively, with high energy on both sides. FSU started off emphatically with a Chauncey Wiggins block on the first possession, followed by a Thomas Bassong layup on the other end. Tre Donaldson, who has been a standout for Miami this year, came out controlling the floor and hitting a three early. It seemed that Robert McCray V has gotten comfortable in his role as the primary ball handler and the one who makes the offense hum. He came out of the gate aggressively, although starting only one of four from the field.

An AJ Swinton huge three gave the Seminoles a 9-8 lead after five minutes of play. Kobe Magee hit another huge three as this Seminoles offense came out firing. Donaldson answered back with a three of his own, and Miami continued shooting the ball well, finding themselves up 18-13 with ten minutes to go in the first half. Lajae Jones hit a nasty and-one scoop under the basket to bring FSU back within a couple.

A couple of buckets by Malik Reneau and Timo Malovec extended Miami’s lead to 7. Robert McCray used a slick spin move to drop a mid-range jumper, and then followed it with an and-one layup attempt. Chauncey Wiggins made the game a 1-point game with a huge three of his own, though Miami found some breathing room capped off by a Tru Washington three at the buzzer to put Miami up 38-32 at halftime. Washington was the overall leading scorer with 10 points at the halfway point.

Second Half

After a quick momentum swing to end the second half with a missed Florida State three turning into a made Miami three, it was going to be interesting to see what that meant for each team coming out of the break. The Hurricanes led for the majority of the first half and looked to run away with the game in the second half. The outcome was that the Hurricanes took that momentum and ran with it. They extended their lead to ten within the first five minutes of the second half.

Bassong began the Seminoles’ momentum shift with a huge and-one to bring FSU back within seven points. Miami continued to create turnovers and plague the Seminoles early in the second half, though eventually, the Seminoles rallied for a huge comeback to make it a game once again as a Florida State 13-3 run tied the game up with around eight minutes.

That was before Miami had its own answer, with Malik Reneau and company scoring two back-to-back buckets to make it a seven-point game with five and a half minutes remaining. In a chaotic sequence, Miami’s Shelton Henderson rolled on the ground in pain while play continued, and Chauncey Wiggins hit a huge three to put the Seminoles within four points.

The separation in this game occurred in the final four minutes, when Donaldson completely took over, sealing the deal for the Hurricanes. Despite the door seeming completely shut, the Seminoles had a couple of quick buckets to put themselves back within six points with a minute and a half to go. With a minute to go, Florida State possessed the ball and looked to make it a one-possession game. Jones hit a quick layup to cut it to four points. Malik Reneau snagged his 11th rebound of the game on a missed second free throw by Donaldson, putting it up and in to finally shut the Seminoles’ late surge down.

Player of the Game

Lajae Jones shot an ultra-efficient 8 of 14 from the field tonight, while also knocking down half of his three point attempts, shooting 2 of 4. He also contributed 2 rebounds and 3 steals. Even in a losing effort, Lajae bounced back from a 3-point first half and added 18 in the second. His timely buckets kept Florida State in this one and were key in its late push to climb back into the game.

What’s Next?

Florida State will head to Atlanta, Georgia to take on Georgia Tech in an ACC matchup on Saturday February 28th. This game will tip off at 12:00p p.m. and be broadcast on ACC Network.

PHOENIX (AP) — Derrick White scored 22 points, Neemias Queta had 14 points and 13 rebounds, and the Boston Celtics used a big third quarter to beat the Phoenix Suns 97-81 on Tuesday night.

Sam Hauser shot 6 for 14, including 4 for 10 from 3-point range, to add 16 points and the Celtics — playing without All-Star Jaylen Brown (right knee contusion) — won their fourth in a row and for the ninth time in their last 10 games.

Baylor Scheierman had 11 points and 11 rebounds.

Collin Gillespie had 15 points and Grayson Allen scored 14 as the Suns lost for the fourth time in their last five games. The Suns played without their top two scorers, Devin Booker (right hip strain) and Dillon Brooks (left hand fracture), who combined average nearly 46 points per game.

The Celtics led 50-46 at halftime but took control by outscoring the Suns 30-11 in the third quarter, including a 16-0 run.

The Celtics also held a huge advantage on the boards, outrebounding the Suns by 27, 61 to 34.

Up next

Celtics: At Denver on Wednesday night.

Suns: Host the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday night.

___

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

___

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

The 11th-ranked Virginia Cavaliers left no doubt Tuesday night, delivering a wire-to-wire 90-61 dismantling of the North Carolina State Wolfpack as they prepare for a marquee clash with the top-ranked Duke Blue Devils.

Thijs De Ridder set the tone with 19 points, anchoring a balanced attack that featured five Cavaliers in double figures. Virginia improved to 25-3 overall and 13-2 in the Atlantic Coast Conference, extending its winning streak to nine games while keeping pace behind Duke in the league race.

The Cavaliers seized control early and never allowed N.C. State to mount a serious challenge. By halftime, Virginia had built a 32-19 cushion, fueled largely by the Wolfpack’s frigid shooting. N.C. State connected on just 18.2 percent of its shots in the opening half and misfired on 11 of 13 attempts from beyond the arc.

Virginia’s depth and defensive presence proved overwhelming. The Cavaliers swatted 12 shots, including a career-high eight from 7-foot freshman Johann Grunloh. Their bench dominated the scoring battle, outpacing the Wolfpack reserves 32-5. From long distance, Virginia knocked down 12 of 26 3-point attempts to keep the margin growing.

Sam Lewis finished with 16 points, while Jacari White added 15 and Malik Thomas contributed 12 in the lopsided effort.

For N.C. State (19-9, 10-5), Paul McNeil Jr. scored 22 points and grabbed six rebounds. Darrion Williams chipped in 14 points and Ven-Allen Lubin added 11, but the Wolfpack never found sustained offensive rhythm.

Midway through the second half, tensions briefly flared. Scottie Ebube was ejected for leaving the bench area during an altercation, and Lewis and Williams were assessed offsetting technical fouls.

The Wolfpack entered the contest with momentum after an 82-58 win over rival North Carolina Tar Heels, yet they struggled from the outset against Virginia’s defensive pressure. The Cavaliers also won the teams’ previous meeting this season, 76-61, continuing a trend of decisive results.

The only concern for Virginia came late, when De Ridder limped off the court with about five minutes remaining. Otherwise, the Cavaliers could not have scripted a more convincing performance heading into their high-stakes showdown at Duke.

On the night of this Tuesday (24th), the Brazilian National Team held its first training session focusing on preparation for the friendlies against Costa Rica, Venezuela, and Mexico. The activity took place at the Alejandro Morera Soto Stadium in Alajuela, Costa Rica, which will host the first match of the Amarelinha.

The team, led by coach Arthur Elias, will train again on Wednesday (25th) at the same location. Check the schedule by clicking here.

The team's first match in 2026 will be against Costa Rica on Friday (27th) at 10 PM (Brasília time) at the Alejandro Morera Soto Stadium. The match against Venezuela will be on March 4th at 6 PM (Brasília time) at the Mexican Federation Training Center in Toluca. The last game of this FIFA Date will be on March 7th at 8 PM (Brasília time) at the Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes in Mexico City, against the hosts.

Fê Palermo during the Women's National Team training in Costa RicaCredits: Lívia Villas Boas/CBF

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

No. 4 Iowa State took control of its game against the University of Utah midway through the first half en route to a 75-59 win over the Runnin’ Utes at the Huntsman Center on Tuesday night.

With the loss, Utah now sits at 10-1 overall and 2-13 in Big 12 play on the year.

Here are three takeaways from the game.

Iowa State’s defense forces Utah into a season-high for turnovers

Iowa State’s trapping defense created plenty of issues for Utah, forcing the Utes into 11 first-half turnovers. The Cyclones turned those into 14 points off turnovers in the first 20 minutes.

Iowa State ended up forcing Utah into a season-high 18 turnovers in the game, and the Cyclones turned those into 20 points.

Iowa State did a good job swarming the Utes offensively and making them either turn the ball over or go late into the shot clock before getting a look up.

Eight of those 11 first-half turnovers for Utah came in the final 12 minutes of the half, beginning right around the time the Cyclones went on a 12-0 run to break the game open.

What Utes stood out?

Utah’s guards led the scoring for the team — Terrence Brown, McHenry and Obomate Abbey accounted for Utah’s first 21 points of the game and 24 of their 31 first-half points.

Brown ended up with a team-high 18 points on 6 of 10 shooting, while adding four rebounds and three assists.

He also had a season-high seven turnovers.

McHenry, meanwhile, added 14 points and Keanu Dawes had 10. Both of those players tied for the team lead with two 3-pointers.

Dawes had another double-double, as he finished with 12 rebounds.

The Utes wore down in the second half, shooting 38.1% in the final 20 minutes and finishing 45.7% for the game.

ISU’s balanced attack on display

Every single Iowa State player who logged minutes in the first half scored, with no one in double-digits, even though the Cyclones had 41 first-half points.

A few guys of the usuals ended up leading the Cyclones offensively, as Joshua Jefferson finished with 21 points, including 13 in the second half.

Four Iowa State players ended up in double-figures, as the Cyclones shot 47.5% for the game.

They also had sizable edges in points in the paint (38-26) and bench points (26-8).

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — T.O. Barrett scored a career-best 28 points and Mark Mitchell added 23 to help Missouri beat No. 22 Tennessee 73-69 on Tuesday night.

Trent Burns had seven rebounds and four steals off the bench for the Tigers (19-9, 9-6 Southeastern Conference), who improved to 3-1 at home this season against AP Top 25 opponents and 18-1 when scoring at least 73 points.

Ja’Kobi Gillespie scored 19 points, Nate Ament had 17 and Felix Okpara added 15 points and eight rebounds for Tennessee (20-8, 10-5), which had won four consecutive games and eight of the past nine.

Tennessee outrebounded Missouri 42-30 but scored just 20 second-chance points despite grabbing 18 offensive boards. It was the sixth time a ranked Volunteers team lost to an unranked opponent this season.

Bishop Boswell hit a layup with 4 seconds left to cut Missouri’s lead to 71-69, but Jacob Crews made two free throws on the other end to seal the win.

The teams exchanged leads in the second half before Trent Pierce hit a 3-pointer with 10:37 remaining to give the Tigers a 48-45 advantage they did not relinquish.

Barrett dunked to finish a 14-3 run that gave Missouri a 26-24 lead with 1:07 left in the first half before Gillespie scored five straight points to close the period.

Ament drained a 3 with 16:28 remaining in the first half to cap a 10-0 run that put the Volunteers ahead 12-2.

Up next

Tennessee hosts No. 17 Alabama on Saturday night.

Missouri plays at Mississippi State on Saturday.

___

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CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Cavaliers came away with an impressive 109-94 victory over the New York Knicks to pull even with them in the standings.

The stats in the table below are taken from Cleaning the Glass.

Now, let’s dive into the numbers.

• The Knicks were held to 11 points in the third quarter. Cleveland won this frame by 13 to push their halftime lead of six to 18 heading into the final quarter, all but sealing the win.
• New York went 1-12 from three in the third quarter. The Cavs dared the Knicks to beat them from beyond the arc all evening, but they weren’t able to do so for this 12-minute run, which contributed to this game getting out of hand.
• The Cavs held the Knicks to just 1-3 shooting at the rim in the third quarter. Head coach Kenny Atkinson has prioritized protecting the rim over defending the three-point line this season. The benefits of this approach showed through during the team’s third-quarter run.
• Cleveland is 19-2 when Jarrett Allen scores 15 points or more. The guards found a way to get him involved early and often. He went 7-8 from the field and was a factor on both ends.
• James Harden finished with fewer than seven assists for the first time as a Cavalier. He played well despite the lack of assists. He finished with 20 points and four helpers in the victory.
• The Cavs are now 5-10 when Mitchell plays and scores 23 or fewer points in a game. This was one of the rare times the Cavs have won when Mitchell hasn’t had an outsized impact on scoring.
• Cleveland won the second-chance points battle 16-15. Mitchell Robinson had six of the Knicks’ 11 offensive rebounds. The Cavs finished with 13 offensive rebounding with Allen having three.
• The Knicks turned it over 17 times to the Cavs’ 11. Cleveland cleaned up both areas they struggled with against the Oklahoma City Thunder: rebounding and turnovers.
• Both teams struggled to finish at the rim as they both finished below the 20th percentile in rim shooting accuracy. Cleveland went 44.4% from the restricted area while New York went 57.1%.
• This is the seventh time the Cavs have held an opponent under 100 points. The Knicks finished with a 100 offensive rating (9th percentile).
• Dean Wade finished with a team-best plus/minus of +22. Wade had a great performance after really struggling against the Thunder on Sunday. He provided 11 points on 4-9 shooting with eight rebounds.
• The Cavs attempted nine more free throws. Donovan Mitchell was able to get to the line consistently as he went 11-14 from there.
• This was the fifth time Harden attempted no free throws in a game since 2021. Harden was aggressive and probably deserved a few trips to the line. Overall, he hasn’t gotten to the charity stripe as much as he likely deserved.
• Six Cavaliers finished in double figures scoring, including the entire starting lineup: Mitchell (23), Harden (20), Allen (19), Jaylon Tyson (12), Evan Mobley (12), and Dean Wade (11).

Billy Gonzalez, who was let go at Florida following his former boss Billy Napier’s unsuccessful tenure, has joined Texas football as an offensive analyst, according to On3. Gonzalez’ most recent gig prior to his eventual relocating to Austin was as the Gators’ interim head coach after Napier’s firing midseason last year. Gonzales saw five games as Florida’s football coaching leader. He’ll work to boost Steve Sarkisian’s pass-heavy offensive regime.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING ABOUT THE LONGHORNS

Austin American-Statesman: Steve Sarkisian: Texas football spending big on coaches is necessary

Austin American-Statesman: Will injured Texas quarterback Arch Manning practice in the spring?

Inside Texas: Versatility is key for Steve Sarkisian, Will Muschamp in crafting the 2026 Texas defense

Inside Texas: Why Steve Sarkisian overhauled Texas’ running back room for 2026

ICYMI IN BURNT ORANGE NATION

Texas faces No. 7 Florida with ranked win streak on the line

No. 3 Texas notches 14-0 run-rule victory over UTRGV

Texas starting culture development earlier than ever

LOOK: Texas OL John Turntine III’s physical development is impressive

Steve Sarkisian calls transfer WR Cam Coleman ‘a fabulous addition’

Steve Sarkisian updates the status of transfer OL Laurance Seymore’s waiver

RECRUITING ROUNDUP

247Sports: ATH Gabriel Player stacked offers the last month and now has five trips in the works, one coach standing out

247Sports: Texas a strong contender for Gilmer five-star OL Ismael Camara

247Sports: Chicago DL David Folorunsho reacts to new offer from Texas

247Sports: Texas will receive an official visit from the nation’s No. 1 CB John Meredith III

247Sports: Steve Sarkisian says new defensive coordinator Will Muschamp exceeding expectations as a recruiter

247Sports: Elite 2028 QB Neimann Lawrence discusses programs leading his recruitment

247Sports: The Opening Los Angeles: Recruiting buzz and intel from loaded regional

Inside Texas: Top-40 prospect Damarion Mays recaps recruitment, Texas relationship

SEC SHOWDOWN

Associated Press: Women’s AP Top 25: Oklahoma jumps up four spots in latest rankings

Austin American-Statesman: Should a win over Florida guarantee the NCAA Tournament for Longhorns?

Austin American-Statesman: Texas C Kyla Oldacre earns Senior Day start against Mississippi State

Good Bull Hunting: Aggie baseball sweeps Penn to stay perfect on the season

Rock M Nation: Mizzou overcomes slow start, upsets top-25 Tennessee 73-69

Red Cup Rebellion: Ole Miss run rules SEMO with Will Furniss 3-run blast

Rocky Top Talk: With Joey Aguilar gone, all eyes are on George MacIntyre

Roll ‘Bama Roll: Alabama baseball sweep Rhode Island

A Sea Of Blue: Kentucky basketball has likely secured an NCAA Tournament spot

WHAT WE’RE READING

SB Nation: C.J. Stroud trade rumors take decisive turn after Texans’ GM comments

SB Nation: The NFL is considering the worst rule change of all time

SB Nation: The NBA’s tanking fixes don’t solve the league’s biggest problem

NEWS ACROSS LONGHORN NATION AND BEYOND

• What a tragedy. Sending our best to his family.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Malik Reneau scored 23 points and grabbed 12 rebounds, Tre Donaldson had 21 points, six assists, and six rebounds, and Miami held on late to defeat Florida State, 83-73 on Tuesday night.

The Hurricanes (22-6, 11-4 Atlantic Coast Conference) led by 11 points with 3:16 remaining in regulation, but FSU cut the deficit to four points down the stretch. Miami ended the game on an 8-2 run to prevent the comeback.

Reneau has scored 20 or more points in 16 games this season, and picked up his eighth double-double of the year. He ranks fifth in the ACC in scoring.

Miami shot 53% from the floor and 43% from beyond the arc. They entered tonight's game sitting atop the ACC and 11th nationally in field goal percentage.

The 'Canes closed the first half up 38-32, and Tru Washington scored 10 of his 11 points in the opening frame. Washington also had a game-high four steals.

For the Seminoles (14-14, 7-8), Lajae Jones scored 21 points (8-of-14 shooting), and Chauncey Wiggins added 14 points and five rebounds.

Up next

Miami: hosts Boston College on Saturday.

Florida State: visits Georgia Tech on Saturday.

___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here and here (AP News mobile app). AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball

Number 11 ranked TCU Women’s Basketball extended its NCAA leading home winning streak to 41 games as the Frogs took down Iowa State in a thriller with a final score of 80-73. TCU trailed Iowa State by nine points through three quarters but outscored the Cyclones 31-15 over the final ten minutes to storm back and clinch the win. This game featured two of the premier talents in college basketball in Olivia Miles and Audi Crooks and Miles’s big fourth quarter performance led her team to a win. The Horned Frogs moved to 25-4 on the year and 13-3 in Big 12 play with the win as TCU has a half game hold on first place in its quest to defend the Big 12 regular season title.

Olivia Miles led the Frogs in scoring with a 26 point, ten rebound, ten assist triple-double. The box score, while very impressive, does not tell the whole story as Miles struggled offensively in the first half, but took over the game down the stretch of the fourth quarter to lead the TCU comeback. Miles scored 17 points in the final ten minutes, making six of seven attempts from the field, and putting the team on her back to will TCU to a win. The entire game went through Miles in the fourth quarter as she collected multiple clutch rebounds, dished out assists and knocked down five free throws to close out the game. Miles’s ability to control a close game in the fourth quarter against a very good team was impressive to watch and bodes well for TCU as they near the Big 12 tournament and March Madness. Marta Suarez also deserves a ton of credit for the win as she scored 12 of her 19 points in the first half to keep TCU within striking distance. Suarez also collected ten rebounds to complete her eighth double-double as a Horned Frog. Suarez was impactful on the defensive end as well with two blocks and good physicality overall. Taylor Bigby continues to be a very important three-and-D starter for TCU as she knocked down three shots from beyond the arc on her way to nine points and four rebounds. Clara Silva was the third Frog in double figures with 11 points on 50% shooting from the field. Mark Campbell called this Kennedy Basham’s best game as a Frog thanks to her work on the defensive end as she tallied four blocks and held her own in 21 minutes matched up with Iowa State’s star center Audi Crooks. Basham also tallied six points and seven rebounds in a great performance off the bench. While Clara Bielefeld’s stat line doesn’t jump off the page, there was an encouraging sign for TCU fans in that Campbell trusted the true freshman enough to sub her in during the final minute to not turn the ball over and knock down free throws if needed.

While the Frogs did not have their best jump shooting game, making just 23% of their shots from beyond the arc, TCU adjusted well to attack the basket more often and scored 40 points in the paint compared to 30 by Iowa State. This change in shot diet also resulted in more trips to the free throw line as the Frogs attempted 21 free throws as a team. Attacking the basket also paid dividends for the TCU defense as Iowa State’s leading scorer Audi Crooks fouled out of the game down the stretch in the fourth quarter. The ability to score in different ways will be an important tool as TCU faces better and better defenses in the post season. TCU’s shooting woes were also alleviated by an excellent job limiting turnover as the Frogs totaled just four as a team. The TCU defense held an explosive Iowa State offense to just 39% shooting from the field and 36% shooting from three and the Frogs won the rebounding battle 46-41.

The Horned Frogs will look to extend their lead on the rest of the conference Wednesday at 5:30 as they are set to take on the Cincinnati Bearcats on the road. Cincinnati sits in 13th place in the Big 12 with a 6-10 record in conference play and a 11-17 record overall. The Bearcats are coming off of back-to-back wins over BYU on the road and UCF at home. Senior guard Mya Perry is the leading scorer for Cincinnati this season at 17.3 points per game. Perry scored 32 points in the win over BYU, knocking down five shots from beyond the arc. TCU perimeter defenders will need to key in on Perry to slow down the Cincinnati offense.

The Boston Celtics headed to Phoenix on Tuesday night looking to extend their winning streak, but having to do so without Jaylen Brown, and the team did not miss a beat. Taking on a Suns team that was without two of their biggest key players in Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks, the Celtics got control of the game after the first quarter and used a big momentum shift in the third quarter to get a vice grip in the matchup.

After struggling out of the gate, Boston cruised through the final three quarters and did so while giving everyone a bit of run and opportunity in this game. It was the perfect showing for who the Celtics have been this year, even with Brown's absence, just his sixth missed game of the season. On any given night, any player can step up for Boston and a balanced effort on both ends of the court now pulls them to 4.5 games behind the Detroit Pistons for the top seed in the Eastern Conference.

Here's a quick recap of Tuesday night's victory:

Final score: Boston Celtics 97, Phoenix Suns

Keys to the game:

Big third quarter: While the Suns got the advantage in the first quarter, Boston came back with a winning second quarter to give themselves the lead at halftime, but took complete control of the game in the third. Boston outscored Phoenix 30-11 in the third quarter, which saw the Suns go several minutes without scoring a basket until late in the frame, and it set the tone for the rest of the second half. Phoenix had no chance at the end of the third, and Boston kept their foot on the gas throughout.

Neemias Queta: With no Jaylen Brown in the lineup, the Celtics had to have step up performances from others on the team, and tonight belonged to Neemias Queta. Putting up 14 points and 13 rebounds, including 6 offensive rebounds, and 2 blocks, Queta was all over the court. He thoroughly outplayed Phoenix's Mark Williams, and didn't require much run from Nikola Vucevic

Balanced effort: Four starters reached double figures tonight in the win, and two of them, Queta and Baylor Scheierman, finished with double-doubles. The balanced effort didn't just show up on offense, as the Celtics held Phoenix to under 40% shooting both from 3-point range and the field overall.

Highlight of the game: Ron Harper Jr. makes emphatic block

GET THAT 🤬 OUTTA HERE pic.twitter.com/xQHVL5Q0Ae

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) February 25, 2026

What's next: @ Denver Nuggets, Wednesday, February 25, 10:00PM ET

Boston will finish out their road trip on the second night of a back-to-back when they face the Denver Nuggets in an ESPN primetime showdown. It is likely that the Celtics will get the return of Jaylen Brown back, but may be without a starter or two depending on how the roster is managed on the second night of the back-to-back frame. Back in January, the Nuggets came into Boston and defeated the Celtics by 4, without 3-time MVP Nikola Jokic, as Jamal Murray put up 22 points and 17 assists.

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This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Celtics roll past Suns without Jaylen Brown for fifth straight victory

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — After a frustrating weekend in Provo, Iowa State found the reset button on Tuesday night. Behind a historic shooting performance and a dominant second-half defensive effort, the No. 4 Cyclones dispatched Utah 75-59 at the Huntsman Center.

A new standard from deep

The headline of the night belonged to Milan Momcilovic. Despite battling early foul trouble that sent him to the bench with three personals in the second half, the junior forward solidified his place in the Iowa State record books. Momcilovic connected on his 103rd three-pointer of the season, passing Hall of Famer Dedric Willoughby (1996-97) for the most triples in a single season in program history.

Momcilovic reached the milestone in fewer games than Willoughby and remains the only player in school history to hit the century mark while shooting north of 50% from beyond the arc.

Jefferson and Batemon stabilize the offense

While Momcilovic provided the history, Joshua Jefferson provided the production. Jefferson finished with 21 points and six rebounds, repeatedly attacking a Utah interior that struggled to contain him. His efficiency inside was a necessary counter to a Cyclone perimeter attack that finished a modest 7-of-23 from deep.

Freshman Jamarion Batemon continued his strong play off the bench, tallying 13 points. Batemon sparked an early double-digit lead in the first half with a pair of steals that led to transition dunks, quieting the crowd during the few moments Utah threatened to make a run.

Defensive lockdown

The game was ultimately decided by Iowa State’s trademark defensive pressure. The Cyclones forced 17 turnovers while committing only seven of their own. This +10 margin allowed ISU to control the tempo even when the shots weren’t falling.

The defensive adjustment on Utah’s Terrence Brown proved to be the turning point. After Brown scored 13 points in the first half, the Cyclones limited him to just 5 points in the final 20 minutes, effectively stalling the Utes’ offense.

With the road trip through the mountains complete, Iowa State (24-4, 11-4) returns home to Hilton Coliseum this Saturday to host Texas Tech.

Sunday ushered in signs of unity when the U.S. men's hockey team clinched its first gold medal since the 1980 Miracle on Ice Olympic team in a 2-1 overtime thriller against Canada. The past 48 hours have divided America once again.

President Donald Trump invited the men's team to the State of the Union address in a locker room call and sparked widespread criticism when Trump said that he also had to invite the gold medal-winning women's team, too, or he would be "impeached."

At the State of the Union, the men's team received a bipartisan standing ovation at the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday, Feb. 24. But Trump's comments in the phone call days prior to his speech invited an avalanche of backlash after the men's team laughed at the president's remark, leading some hardcore sports fans to put the Olympians on thin ice.

"We're so incredibly divided, there's terrible things going on, on a regular basis, and it's supposed to be this one thing where we can all agree to just celebrate," influencer Aubrey Gallione told USA TODAY. "And they ruined it."

Trump State of the Union live updates: Follow president's address in real time

The men's team victory also arrives on the heels of "Heated Rivalry," the hit HBO romantic drama that follows two professional hockey players intertwined in a secretive gay relationship. Starring Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie, the show has become a cultural phenomenon with the latter set to host "Saturday Night Live" on Feb. 28.

NHL has long pushed to grow game of hockey in America, beyond

The NHL has long wanted to grow the game of hockey in the United States and abroad. But hockey, like all professional sports, has become further intertwined with politics over the past 12 years.

The league banned Pride tape in 2023, later overturning the choice after an icy response from some prominent players, according to NPR. The Olympic breakout star Jack Hughes – who scored the U.S. gold medal-winning goal – stood by his personal choice to support Pride-themed nights in a clip that has since surfaced from a 2023 interview.

This year, hockey received renewed widespread interest with the rise of "Heated Rivalry" after its release in November.

Based on the "Game Changers" book series by Rachel Reid, the Canadian series has become a worldwide phenomenon with stars Storrie and Williams becoming two of the most famous men in Hollywood virtually overnight.

The game experienced another growth spurt with the U.S. women's hockey team winning gold, their seventh consecutive winter Olympic medal. The men's team secured its first gold medal victory since 1980, when the group's momentous win was popularized in the 2004 Disney film "Miracle." The latter's win instantly became politicized with FBI Director Kash Patel chugging beers in the locker room and posing for photos with the team. Later, Trump's call surfaced, upsetting some new and longtime fans of hockey.

Some fans say Trump call was 'really disheartening'

Bailey Koch, a Chicago content creator behind the growing sports TikTok account @baileymkoch, said she is a WNBA fan who got excited to support the U.S. men's team because of the advocacy of the Hughes' brothers for the women's side. Jack Hughes and Quinn Hughes are both men's Olympic team members while their mom Ellen Weinberg-Hughes is a consultant for the women's Olympic team.

But Koch, who boasts 14,000 followers, said it was "extremely disappointing" to see their participation with Trump "laughing at this women's team and diminishing their accomplishments." Their "accomplishments were earned on the exact same stage under the same pressure representing the USA," Koch said.

"It didn't feel great," Koch said. "It was really disheartening."

Longtime hockey player Mac Bass of San Francisco, whose garnered nearly 121,000 Instagram and TikTok followers @macloafe, was also frustrated with the team's Trump call. He said that hockey has "a lot of culture problems."

One fan says hockey carries 'toxic culture'

Bass grew up outside the Bay Area and started playing hockey when he was 4. He is still an avid San Jose Sharks fan and played competitively during his childhood. He currently participates in a beer league in San Francisco.

"Everyone's always saying, 'You know, we got to grow the sport, we got to grow the sport' and then something like this, like 'Heated Rivalry' comes around and grows the sport and, you know, they don't like the way it's grown," Bass said, adding that "the sport is a very beautiful sport itself, but it's unfortunate that a lot of the toxic culture exists in it."

"Hockey has always been a boys club and that's unfortunate, you know, and I think you don't grow a sport by keeping it exclusive in any fashion," Bass continued.

Advocate: Women reach 'pinnacle' and still 'end up being a punchline'

Aubrey Gallione, who founded the suicide prevention organization Project Love U and also spoke out on social media, panned the players' choice to speak with Trump.

The former competitive cheerleader said the laughing was an act of misogyny. "I would love to say that I'm shocked by everything that's happening and what came out, but I think being a woman and knowing how misogynistic these spaces are, I'm not shook," Gallione said.

"It's sad to see that women can reach the pinnacle of their sport and still somehow end up being a punchline," Gallione added.

Ellen Hughes, the mom of two Olympic gold medalists, said on the Feb. 24 "Today" show that "at the end of the day, it's just about the country."

Jake Guentzel among 5 US men's hockey players not at State of the Union

"These players, both the men and women, can bring so much unity to a group and to a country," she said. "People that cheered on that don’t watch hockey, people that have politics on one side or on the other side, and that’s all both the men’s team and the women’s team care about."

The men's team posed with Trump in the Oval Office on Feb. 24 prior to the State of the Union. The president even wore Matthew Tkachuk's gold medal, joking that he was not "giving it back." The women declined Trump's invitation to attend the State of the Union.

Later that night at the U.S. Capitol, the guys received a standing ovation from members of Congress. "U-S-A, U-S-A," the crowd chanted.

Then Trump announced that Connor Hellebuyck, the U.S. men's team goalie who made over 40 saves in the match against Canada, will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the highest civilian honors in America.

Contributing: Greta Cross

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'Heated Rivalry' after Trump call to men's hockey team divides US fans

For the first time this season, Arizona stayed on the road in between games. Yet despite getting more than two full days’ of rest following its win at Houston, the Wildcats spent much of Tuesday night looking like a team on the second half of an NBA back-to-back with a flight in between.

It wasn’t pretty, but in the end the UA moved a step closer to its first Big 12 Conference championship by outlasting Baylor 87-80. The Wildcats (25-2, 13-2) have a 2-game lead in the standings with three remaining and can clinch a share of the title with a win Saturday at home against No. 14 Kansas.

Arizona trailed by seven at halftime and 10 early in the second half, its largest deficit since the UCLA game in mid-November, but outscored the Bears 13-5 over the final 4:04.

Jaden Bradley scored 25 points, hitting a career-high five 3-pointers and adding six rebounds and six assists, while Brayden Burries had 23 including 14 in the final 10:09. Tobe Awaka added a double-double (10 points, 13 rebounds) as the UA outrebounded Baylor 23-11 in the second half to finish plus-7 on the boards.

The UA shot 49.2 percent overall and were 9 of 21 from 3 for the second straight game.

Baylor got 26 from Cameron Carr and 16 from Isaac Williams, who missed two free throws in the final 1:13 while Arizona was 5 of 6 on foul shots down the stretch and 18 of 23 for the game.

Arizona turned the ball over just once in the second half, taking away a key scoring component for the Bears, who had gotten 14 points off UA miscues in the first half.

The UA trailed 41-34 at halftime, its largest deficit of the season after 20 minutes, then Baylor hit a 3 on the opening possession of the second half to build only the third double-digit lead against the Wildcats this season.

Then a switch flipped for Arizona, scoring seven in a row. Another 7-0 run, capped by Motiejus Krivas’ two free throws, put the Wildcats up 48-46. Bradley’s fifth 3-pointer made it 55-51 with 12:15 to go.

Baylor, which shot 53.6 percent in the first half, missed eight straight shots after that opening 3 but then hit 4 of 6. The last two were monster dunks by Caden Powell andCarr to tie it at 55.

That began a stretch of nearly nine minutes where neither team led by more than two points, mostly because neither team could defend. Arizona had four 1-point leads, including off 3s by Ivan Kharchenkov and Anthony Dell’Orso, but Baylor made 10 of 13 shots after the Wildcats took their first lead of the second half.

The UA finally got a stop on defense and Burries scored on the other end for a 78-75 lead with 3:05 remaining. After that the Wildcats kept the lead, icing the game at the line but not before Burries hit a long 2 with 27.8 seconds left for a 4-point lead, a possession that took more than 45 seconds and included an offensive rebound by Kharchenkov.

Arizona had a 10-8 lead, fueled by two early 3s from Bradley, but then Baylor went on a 7-0 and started to take control. The Bears went up 24-16, the first time in Big 12 play the UA had been down more than two scores.

Bradley had 10 of the Wildcats’ first 20 points but then had to sit for a bit with 8:47 left in the first half following a second foul. The foul was upgraded to a flagrant after a Baylor appeal showed he had smacked Obi Agbim in the face while in transition.

The UA defense was porous no matter who was on the court. Baylor scored on consecutive backdoor cuts and then went up 37-28 on a 3-point play by Michael Rataj that sawAwaka join Bradley andKrivas with two fouls.

Arizona got within five but only scored two points over the final 3:43 of the half.

The UA is back home for the next two games, starting with Saturday’s clash against Kansas and then the home finale Monday vs. No. 4 Iowa State.

The San Francisco 49ers have a spate of pending free agents on the defensive side going into 2026.

While the 49ers' defense put together enough stops to reach the divisional playoffs, it's clear that group needs some significant upgrades this offseason. The good news for San Francisco is there aren't any major pieces due to hit the free agent market.

Here's how they should prioritize each of their own defensive free agents:

DE Robert Beal Jr.

Priority: None

Beal has been largely disappointing since the 49ers selected him in the sixth round of the 2023 draft. That he couldn't carve out regular playing time this season is a bad sign for his future in the NFL.

DE Tarron Jackson

Priority:None

Jackson went down for the season with a neck injury in training camp. It's not out of the realm of possibility that the 49ers bring him back, but it won't be a priority for them as they overhaul their defensive front.

S Jason Pinnock

Priority:None

Robert Saleh's exit likely spells the end for Pinnock who played 494 defensive snaps in the secondary for San Francisco this season. His role as a "big nickel" could probably be filled with higher-quality player better suited for the position. He may return on a short, inexpensive deal, but it's hard to imagine he'll have any kind of significant role with the 49ers.

DL Yetur Gross-Matos

Priority:Low

If Gross-Matos was more reliable the 49ers may be more eager to bring him back. A chronic knee issue plagued his entire two-year tenure in San Francisco, and a hamstring issue cost him games in 2025. Perhaps San Francisco wants a versatile veteran familiar with their system, but he won't be a priority for them.

LB Curtis Robinson

Priority:Something north of low

San Francisco's culture matters and it's notable that Robinson has been the team's Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee the last two seasons. He's been a willing special teams player, practice squad member, and a defensive fill-in when injuries stacked up at LB. The 49ers may want him back. He's far enough down the depth chart that they won't need to hustle to re-sign him.

LB Garret Wallow

Priority: How much does one playoff game matter?

Wallow was excellent in the 49ers' postseason bout vs. the Philadelphia Eagles. However much stock they put in that performance will determine how badly they want to get him back. Either way it would be on a cheap deal that won't guarantee the 27-year-old a roster spot.

DE Clelin Ferrell

Priority: Lowish

It isn't nothing that Ferrell tied for the team lead in sacks despite only playing in eight games. On the other hand, that speaks to how bad the 49ers' pass rush was this season. They may target Ferrell as a veteran depth piece, but they have plenty of work to do on the defensive line before that though.

DL Kevin Givens

Priority: Ideally low

This has been a nice story. Givens carved out a role in San Francisco after being an undrafted free agent signee in 2019. He was pushed out of the rotation in 2025 which indicated the team is ready to move on from a player who has largely been an okay rotational piece. The 49ers would probably like to be in a place where they don't need to rely on him anymore.

CB Chase Lucas (RFA)

Priority: Not high enough to tender

The 49ers may want Lucas back. They shouldn't tender him, though. He would make sense as a special teams contributor and reserve nickel corner. It shouldn't be among their first moves in the secondary.

LB Luke Gifford

Priority: Ask Brant Boyer

San Francisco would probably take or leave Gifford as a linebacker. If Boyer requires Gifford on special teams, then the 49ers can make him something of a priority. As a defensive contributor he was subpar and shouldn't be a major factor on that side.

DE Sam Okuayinonu

Priority: Probably higher than it should be

It speaks volumes about where the 49ers pass rush is that Okuayinonu seems like a player who should probably be retained because he was effective at times last season. The 49ers would love to outgrow Okuayinonu this offseason. There's a strong chance they don't get there, in which case a player who knows the system and may be a rotational piece could be someone they want to sign sooner than they would in a more ideal situation.

LB Eric Kendricks

Priority: Low feels disrespectful, but medium feels too high

Kendricks was a nice addition late in the season. It's clear his best football is behind him. It's also clear he may be the best Sam LB option they're going to find this offseason. If that's the case, they may try to round out their starting LB corps with the former All-Pro. It wouldn't be the end of the world if they go younger and let him walk.

DL Jordan Elliott

Priority: Medium

The 49ers need defensive line help. They'd like to be in a place where Elliott doesn't have to start, but they could do much worse in the rotational defensive tackle department. San Francisco shouldn't break the bank for Elliott. They should probably put him above a bunch of their own defensive free agents, though.

DL Kalia Davis

Priority: Medium, but more medium than Elliott

Davis is in a similar boat to Elliott. He's a little younger, but less experienced. Davis is also coming off the best year of his career. San Francisco will probably aim to bring Davis back as a rotational piece in a rebuilt defensive line.

More 49ers: 49ers may make unthinkable roster move, part with superstar per report

This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 49ers free agents: What should San Francisco do with defensive players

The Pittsburgh Penguins made a trade with the Colorado Avalanche on Tuesday, sending defenseman Brett Kulak to the Avalanche in exchange for fellow defenseman Samuel Girard and a 2028 second-round pick.

Kulak was with the Penguins for a little over two months before being traded to the Avalanche. He was originally acquired by the Penguins in the Tristan Jarry trade back in December. 

Now that the dust has settled, this is a nice piece of business from Penguins president and general manager Kyle Dubas. He got a younger defenseman who is signed for one more year, along with a second-round pick, for a defenseman who was going to walk into free agency this summer. Dubas has been on an absolute heater for the last year and a half and is showing no signs of slowing down. 

That 2028 second-rounder is one of seven second-round picks that the Penguins have in the next three drafts. They also have three first-round picks and six third-round picks in the next three drafts. There's still plenty of time for those numbers to grow, too. 

Dubas continues to prioritize his plan to get the Penguins back to being a long-term contender as urgently as possible, while also rewarding his team for the season they're having. He knows this is a team capable of making the playoffs and potentially earning home ice in the first round. 

Girard brings a different skill set than Kulak. He may not be as steady in his own zone or in front of the net, but he's a good puck-mover, something the Penguins need more of on the backend. Outside of Erik Karlsson and Kris Letang, the Penguins don't have another true puck-mover. Girard is also someone who plays well in transition and exits his own zone cleanly.

He brings more of an offensive presence, and if the Penguins really want to, they can have an offensive-first defenseman on all three of their defensive pairs.

They're going to keep the Wotherspoon-Karlsson pairing together since it's been their best pairing all year. After that, they could look to reunite the Shea-Letang pair since it was successful at times earlier this season. That would leave Girard to play on the third pair with one of Connor Clifton or Ilya Solovyov. Either way, you'd have a pure offensive-first and a defense-first player on each defensive pair. 

However, the Penguins could also look to try Girard with Letang and at least see how it goes. It might turn into a full chaos pairing, but head coach Dan Muse hasn't been afraid to try new lines/pairs at times this year. 

Girard's underlying numbers have been really strong this year. He has played 653 minutes at 5v5 and has been on the ice for 56.4% of the shot attempts, 54.9% of the expected goals, 58.1% of the scoring chances, and 53.4% of the high-danger chances. Yes, the Avalanche are a juggernaut this season, but those numbers speak to his ability to drive possession and work the puck into the offensive zone for some good chances.

TRADE: Penguins & Avalanche Swap DefensemenThe Penguins have made a change to their blueline.

All in all, Girard is a nice fit for the blue line and will have the chance to help this team in a multitude of ways on a nightly basis. 

We'll see if he's in the lineup on Thursday when the Penguins host the New Jersey Devils. It will be their first game in three weeks since the NHL has been on its Olympic break.

(Data via Natural Stat Trick).

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Free agency is approaching quickly, and the San Francisco 49ers could be staring at an offseason scenario few expected just months ago.

Star left tackle Trent Williams may not be a lock to return in 2026.

Williams has been the anchor of San Francisco’s offensive line since arriving in 2020. Over six seasons, he’s earned five Pro Bowl selections, multiple First-Team All-Pro honors, and cemented himself as one of the most dominant left tackles of his era. Even entering his late 30s, he continues to perform at a high level when healthy.

But performance isn’t the issue.

The contract is.

The $38 Million Problem

Williams is set to carry a cap hit of roughly $38.8 million in 2026 which is nearly 13 percent of the projected salary cap.

That’s a massive number for any player, even one as accomplished as Williams.

With one year remaining on the three-year, $82.66 million deal he signed in 2024, the logical solution would seem simple, just restructure or extend. Lower the immediate cap hit, spread money into future seasons, and keep your franchise left tackle in place.

However, reports indicate the two sides have struggled to find common ground on a revised agreement.

If they cannot bridge the gap, Williams could unexpectedly enter free agency.

Why an Extension Makes Sense For Both Sides

From Williams’ perspective, security matters.

At age 38, this could realistically be his final major contract. Adding one or two years to his deal would provide financial certainty while rewarding sustained elite play.

From the 49ers’ perspective, lowering the 2026 cap number is critical. The team has other roster needs to address. On paper, the goals align but in practice, the negotiation appears more complicated.

The Cost of Letting Him Walk

Releasing Williams wouldn’t provide clean relief.

If the 49ers move on before June 1, they would absorb a massive dead cap charge north of $30 million. A post June 1 designation would ease the immediate hit but push significant dead money into 2027.

Financially, it’s messy.

Competitively, it’s worse.

San Francisco does not have an obvious successor at left tackle. There’s no heir waiting in the wings. Losing Williams without a clear replacement plan would create a glaring weakness protecting the blind side, which is always a dangerous gamble.

Where He Stands Among His Peers

Williams’ $27.5 million average annual salary currently places him among the highest-paid tackles in football only behind Rashawn Slater, Tristan Wirfs, and Penei Sewell.

Unlike those players, however, Williams is nearing the end of his career rather than the beginning and that seems to be the tension.

A Ticking Clock

There is still time before free agency officially opens.

Deals like this often go down to the wire before a compromise is reached. The 49ers would prefer to keep their All-Pro protector in place. Williams likely prefers to finish his career in San Francisco.

With the 49ers, the offseason rarely lacks drama.

And this year, it may revolve around the most important position on the offensive line.

Bradley Collyer - PA Images via Getty Images

A $1 billion battle over the future of boxing is brewing, with the newly formed Zuffa at the center of it.

British promoter Frank Warren is preparing to pursue legal action amid a dispute over his alleged exclusion from Zuffa Boxing, which is a partnership formed this past year between Saudi Arabia's SELA and TKO Group — the parent company of the UFC and WWE.

Saudi fight financier Turki Alalshikh, UFC CEO Dana White and WWE President Nick Khan are at the forefront of Zuffa Boxing's efforts. The promotional company has secured a reported $500 million, five-year media rights deal with Paramount and has used that to sign Conor Benn and Jai Opetaia, with a host of boxing's top stars expected to follow. Uncrowned understands that an agreement between Zuffa and UK broadcast giant Sky Sports is imminent.

According to The Telegraph, Warren's Queensberry is claiming that SELA and TKO breached separate contracts they had signed with him and formed Zuffa Boxing without his involvement. TKO aims to take over the sport of boxing with Zuffa and gain a virtual monopoly, similar to its market share in MMA and professional wrestling. 

Queensberry says in September 2023 it signed an exclusive agreement with SELA to provide boxing services, which saw the company give SELA access to Queensberry's expertise as the pair looked to stage big-time fights. They worked together for the first time for the Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou bout in October 2023.

Queensberry also claims it signed a contract with TKO, where TKO was allowed access to Queensberry's contract with SELA via its online data. 

It is being argued that TKO and SELA, with the benefit of privileged information, went behind Queensberry's back to ink a five-year deal with each other, and in the process breached their individual agreements with the British promoter.

Queensberry is reportedly seeking $1 billion for lost income that it argues the company would've made had its contracts been honored. Warren plans to take his case to the High Court if no resolution is reached. Queensberry has reportedly sent letters before action to SELA and TKO, detailing its intention to sue for breach of contract.

Queensberry was the key player in Saudi Arabian boxing from September 2023 until this past summer. Rumors swirled in the boxing industry that a fallout between Queensberry and Alalshikh had displaced them from their position, with Eddie Hearn's Matchroom jumping up the ladder — although its future in Saudi Arabian boxing could also be doomed, with Alalshikh helping to take one of Matchroom's biggest stars, Benn, over to Zuffa in recent days.

Mexico is in the world's spotlight after the violent incidents that erupted in the country following the downfall of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, better known as "El Mencho". One of the questions was: will it remain as the host of the World Cup?

Today, Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, cleared up doubts surrounding this situation and confirmed that the organization of the Aztec lands as a World Cup host remains on track:

"Mexico is a great country, it is a football country and, like in every country in the world, things happen. We do not live on the moon. We have police, authorities who will ensure order and security," he said at an event of the Colombian Football Federation. 

"From my side and from FIFA's side, there is absolute confidence in President Sheinbaum. We know that today they have more important things to do than talk about football, but football is an important part of Mexico."

"We are supporting President Sheinbaum with all our strength, who is an extraordinary person and shares this passion for football. So we move forward with Mexico and continue with what will be a great celebration for Mexico and the whole world," he emphasized. 

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

The United States men's ice hockey team was welcomed by "U-S-A" chants as they were introduced by President Donald Trump at his 2026 State of the Union address on Feb. 24.

He congratulated the men's team, as well as the women's team, for capturing the gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan.

Among his remarks, Trump said he will present the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the United States' highest civilian honor, to U.S. men's national team goalie Connor Hellebuyck.

"I've never seen a goaltender play as well as goalie Connor Hellebuyck," Trump said. "(42) shots on gold. And I asked him the one shot, the one where you put your stick in the back and it hit the neck of your stick and bounced off. You practiced that? Or was that a little lucky? He refused to answer that question."

The majority of the men's team roster was in attendance at Trump's address.

Hellebuyck, honored to receive the medal, was all smiles as politicians gave him and the rest of the men's team a standing ovation.

It was a team vote, according to Trump, however he'd ensure that his vote trumped everyone else's.

USA TODAY Sports: What did President Trump say about US men's hockey team at State of the Union?

How did Team USA ice hockey do at 2026 Winter Olympic Games?

Both the U.S. men's and women's national ice hockey teams defeated Canada in overtime, 2-1, to win the gold medal.

"They beat a fantastic Canadian team in overtime, as everybody saw, as did the American women, who will soon be coming to the White House," Trump said during his State of the Union address. "We're in the Oval Office before, and I just want to say a second, very big congratulations to Team USA."

Who is Connor Hellebuyck?

Hellebuyck is a 32-year-old Michigan native. He is a goaltender for the Winnipeg Jets of the NHL.

He was selected by the Jets in the fifth round, 130th overall, of the 2012 NHL entry draft. Hellebuyck went to play college hockey at UMass Lowell, before playing for the St. John's IceCaps, an affiliate of the Jets' in the American Hockey League, the primary development league for the NHL.

Hellebuyck has played in Winnipeg since then, winning three Vezina Trophies and the NHL MVP award.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Connor Hellebuyck Presidential Medal of Freedom: Trump awarding goalie

CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Cavaliers made drastic trades at the deadline because they believed they could compete in a wide-open Eastern Conference. A regular-season win doesn’t validate those moves, but it does provide good proof of concept. The Cavs came away with a 109-94 victory over the New York Knicks.

As has been the case in much of James Harden’s initial tenure with the team, the Cavs won on the strength of their two guards and Jarrett Allen.

The Cavs failed to get Allen involved in their loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday and paid the price. They rectified that issue by ensuring Allen was a part of the offense early and often. He was continually able to get downhill to attack the basket and held up better than he has in a matchup with Mitchell Robinson in recent memory.

Getting Allen touches opened up things for the rest of the offense. The guards had lanes to attack off-the-dribble and from beyond the arc. And they made sure to take advantage of that.

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Donovan Mitchell and Harden continue to complement each other well on the court, even though they didn’t put up gaudy stat lines.

Harden orchestrated the offense all night while finding opportunities to score from the outside.

Mitchell relentlessly attacked the defense off the dribble. Even though he didn’t have his usual efficiency from the floor, he made up for it with his ability to get to the free-throw line.

The Cavs took control of this game in the third quarter after not being able to create much separation in the first half.

They continually forced New York to beat them with their outside shot by cheating off guys like Josh Hart and OG Anunoby, daring them to beat them from deep. This cut off lanes to the basket, which resulted in the Knicks only attempting three shots at the rim in the third quarter. And the Knicks weren’t able to make up for it with their outside shooting as they went 1-12 from beyond the arc in that frame.

This all led to Cleveland winning the quarter 23-11 and jumping out to an 18-point lead that they never gave up.

This was a great game from the Cavs, but they struggled to get Evan Mobley involved offensively. He felt like the odd man out when playing with the starters and wasn’t able to take advantage of the additional spacing in the bench lineups.

It will be an adjustment period for Mobley, who is still on a minutes limit. This was just his third game with the team since they made their drastic moves at the deadline, but this is something to keep an eye on. He finished this one with 12 points on 4-7 shooting with seven rebounds.

Mithell provided 23 points on 5-18 shooting to go along with five rebounds, four assists, and three steals. Harden had 20 points on 8-18 shooting with four assists.

Allen supplied 19 points and 10 rebounds on 7-8 shooting.

The Knicks were led by 20 points from Jalen Brunson. Mikal Bridges provided 18 points on 6-17 shooting with five rebounds.

With the win, the Cavs are now tied with the Knicks for third in the conference and are a game and a half behind the Boston Celtics for the second spot.

This was the last meeting between the Cavs and Knicks this season. This was the Cavs’ lone win in the series.

The Cavaliers are back in action tomorrow night as they hit the road to take on the Milwaukee Bucks. Tip-off is at 8 PM.

The Nets didn’t plan on spending their off day in Atlanta at an aquarium, but once Winter Storm Hernando turned into a full-blown nor’easter, normal stopped being an option.

Veteran forward Terance Mann helped rally the group for a trip to the Georgia Aquarium, a detour that turned a travel headache into something closer to a team day. It wasn’t some grand bonding exercise. It was boredom, mostly, and the simple reality that when you’re stuck, you can either stew or make the most of it.

“We were just bored in Atlanta,” Mann said. “And I know that [Jalen Wilson] had mentioned that they have a nice aquarium there, so I just figured that I’ll take everybody.”

Less than 24 hours later, the Nets were back at Barclays Center, trying to turn a day of snow totals and flight windows into something more familiar: a basketball game. Brooklyn’s charter finally left Atlanta Tuesday morning, the Dallas Mavericks arrived from Indianapolis later in the day, and by tipoff it was clear the league’s logistics machine had done its part. The Nets’ part was harder.

Brooklyn fell to the Mavericks 123-114, dropping to 15-42 and extending its losing streak to five games. For a team that opened the season with a season-worst seven-game skid, it was another reminder that the calendar doesn’t care how chaotic the week has been.

The most striking thing early was how quickly Michael Porter Jr. tried to stabilize the group. After all the travel chaos, he gave Brooklyn the lift it needed, knocking down all three of his shots in his first nine minutes. He led all scorers after the first quarter, and the Nets shot 52.9% in the period. They still trailed.

Dallas, even without rookie phenom Cooper Flagg, looked like the more prepared team out of the gate, spreading offense across its 10-man rotation and shooting 58.3% to take a 36-29 lead into the second. In a matchup that tested the resolve of both teams, the Mavericks were sharper in the small places that matter. One extra pass. One extra rebound. One extra body on the glass. That theme carried into the half.

The Mavericks scored in bunches. The Nets did their best to keep pace. Porter was already up to 16 points by intermission. Noah Clowney added 15, and Nic Claxton had 11 as Brooklyn stayed afloat through shot-making rather than stops. The Nets shot 60.5% in the half, a number that usually translates to control. Dallas somehow topped it at 64.4% and walked into the locker room up 76-64.

Seven second-chance points and a 21-14 advantage on the glass gave the Mavericks the extra possessions they needed to keep Brooklyn at arm’s length, even as both teams shot the ball exceptionally well.

The day’s travel story still hovered over everything, even as both coaches tried to strip it away as an excuse.

Nets head coach Jordi Fernández sounded almost energized by the odd routine, saying he loves game days and that it “feels like I’m in the G League.” He emphasized that the Nets knew Monday they weren’t traveling, allowing them to practice, rest and prepare. They watched film on the plane. They got home. They got treatment. And in his eyes, the circumstances were equal.

“Both teams are in the same condition, so there’s no excuses here,” Fernández said earlier in the evening.

Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd, who has lived through plenty of travel-day weirdness, acknowledged the fatigue risk and the reality of flying on the day of a game. He also framed it simply: both teams landed at roughly the same time, both teams are young, and the challenge is dealing with it.

Brooklyn handled one part of that challenge better after halftime. Porter poured in seven more points in the third quarter, and newcomer Ochai Agbaji added six off the bench, helping the Nets win the period 27-23. Brooklyn committed just one turnover in the quarter, the kind of detail that can flip momentum when legs get heavy and decision-making starts to slip.

It wasn’t enough to erase the deficit, but it gave the Nets a chance. The gap stood at eight entering the fourth, and for the first time all night the game felt like it was sitting there, waiting to be grabbed. But they couldn’t get it done, even after cutting the deficit to four points with five minutes left. The Mavericks responded with a decisive final push that put the game out of reach.

Porter ultimately led Brooklyn with 23 points on 9-for-13 shooting, while fellow starters Clowney and Claxton added 20 and 16 points, respectively, combining for nine rebounds in the loss. Mann, the unlikely hero of Brooklyn’s snow delay, finished with 17 points off the bench.

Marvin Bagley paced Dallas with 20 points off the bench, leading six Mavericks in double figures as Brooklyn shot 53.3% for the game but allowed Dallas to connect at a 56.4% clip.

And the schedule ahead offers little relief. Brooklyn returns to Barclays Center on Thursday to face the San Antonio Spurs, then travels to Boston on Friday to meet the Celtics before hosting the Cleveland Cavaliers. From there, the Nets head back on the road for back-to-back matchups against the Miami Heat, a challenging stretch for this team as the season winds down.

It’s been fun, hasn’t it? Illinois hasn’t lost to Michigan in more than seven years – Jan. 10, 2019. It’s been so long, that I was still a student the last time it happened! Unfortunately, if I played in the band that day, I didn’t take a photo to document it.

Well, ever since then, Illinois has dominated the series — winning nine games in a row.

The all-time record in the series is 11 in a row, which Illinois can get close to tying if the Illini can knock off No. 3 Michigan on Friday night (7 p.m. on Fox).

To prepare, here’s every TCR recap from the past nine meetings.

Dec. 11, 2019: Illinois knocks off No. 5 Michigan, 71-62

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Now that’s how you play 40 minutes of basketball.

Illinois picked up its most impressive win of the early season in a BIG way. The Illini (7-3, 1-1) did just enough to hold off a late rally from the No. 5 Michigan Wolverines (8-2, 1-1) on Wednesday evening at the State Farm Center in Champaign, 71-62.

Jan. 25, 2020: Illinois alone atop the Big Ten after season sweep of Michigan

It’s late January and the Illinois Fighting Illini are the sole owners of first place in the Big Ten.

The Illini (15-5, 7-2) picked up their third straight Big Ten road win and sixth overall in dramatic fashion on Saturday afternoon at the Crisler Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with a 64-62 victory over the Michigan Wolverines.

March 2, 2021: No. 4 Illinois routs No. 2 Michigan, 76-53

One of the teams that played Tuesday night in Ann Arbor could win the whole thing next month in Indianapolis.

Even without Ayo Dosunmu for the third straight game, No. 4 Illinois (19-6, 15-4 Big Ten) traveled to Michigan (18-2, 13-2 Big Ten) and dominated the No. 2 Wolverines — a ranking Juwan Howard’s squad has held for less than 48 hours. A suffocating defensive effort and a balanced offensive attack fueled the Illini to a 76-53 victory, the program’s first-ever over a top-two team on the road.

Jan. 14, 2022: Illinois outlasts Dickinson-less Wolverines; Frazier comes up clutch again

There’s gritty Big Ten games, and then there’s whatever that was at State Farm Center on Friday night.

The result of neither team finding an offensive rhythm? A combined 44-of-107 from the field and 7-of-30 from deep, but it was the Illini that edged out the Wolverines in Champaign, 68-53.

Feb. 27, 2022: Illinois keeps B1G title hopes alive, outlasts Michigan

Illinois’ Big Ten title hopes aren’t dead yet.

The Illini desperately needed a win on Sunday to keep pace with Wisconsin and Purdue atop the Big Ten leaderboard, and the Illini left Ann Arbor, Mich., with its fifth-straight victory over the Wolverines, 93-85.

March 2, 2023: ‘Been there, done that before’: Senior heroics lead Illinois in 2OT thriller vs. Michigan

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — State Farm Center was rocking for one last time this season, and neither team disappointed.

In Thursday night’s high-stakes affair to determine a potential six-way tie for second place in the Big Ten, Michigan came to town looking to spoil Senior Night for grad transfers Matthew Mayer and Terrence Shannon Jr.

Despite being without starting point guard Jayden Epps due to a concussion, Illinois used a barrage of highlight-reel dunks to maintain a late lead over Michigan.

A Wolverines’ last-minute comeback forced overtime, and both teams battled down to the wire in what was a double-overtime classic. In dramatic fashion, senior leaders Shannon and Mayer combined for 45 points, and Illinois prevailed over Michigan, 91-87.

Jan. 18, 2024: Big second-half run sparks No. 14 Illinois’ win at Michigan

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — This one was close, until it wasn’t.

With just over 14 minutes to play in Thursday’s contest at Crisler Arena, Illinois was hanging on by a thread to a one-point lead following a Michigan 7-0 run. How did the visitors respond? A 17-2 run over the next six minutes.

The run kept Illinois up somewhat comfortably the rest of the way, to eventually end up winning a road game in conference play 88-73.

Feb. 13, 2024: Shannon Jr. explodes for 31 in No. 14 Illinois’ romp over Michigan

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — What’s new?

Brad Underwood & Co. once again were able to get it done against Juwan Howard and Michigan.

Terrence Shannon Jr. (31 points) had his best game since returning from suspension, and No. 14 Illinois secured the season sweep of Michigan in a bounce-back 97-68 win Tuesday night at State Farm Center. Howard’s Wolverines are now 0-8 against the Illini.

March 2, 2025: Illinois inching toward ceiling in annihilation of Michigan

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — That’s nine straight against the Wolverines.

The Illini ran away with the game Sunday afternoon in the second half thanks to a dominant performance on the glass, beating Michigan 93-73 for their second straight win. The win helps Illinois establish some sense of momentum with just one game left in the regular season (Friday vs. a scuffling Purdue) ahead of the Big Ten and NCAA tournaments.

ATLANTA (AP) — Jonathan Kuminga scored a season-high 27 points in his debut for the Hawks, who blew out the hapless Washington Wizards 119-98 Tuesday night in Trae Young's return to Atlanta.

Acquired by the Hawks at the trade deadline after falling out of favor in Golden State, Kuminga came off the bench to make a huge impact for his new team.

He delivered a thunderous dunk shortly after taking the court for the first time near the midway point of the first quarter, breaking into a big smile as he headed the other way.

That was only the start of Kuminga's big night. Having completed his recovery from a left knee bone bruise, the high-flying forward from Congo knocked down a trio of 3-pointers to go along with seven rebounds, four assists and two steals in 24 1/2 minutes.

Young was the focus at the beginning of the night. The longtime Hawks star was dealt to the Wizards in early January, ending an eight-year tenure that included four All-Star Game berths and an improbable run to the Eastern Conference finals in 2021.

The point guard has yet to play for his new team, which seems mainly concerned with landing a high draft pick for next season as Young recovers from knee and quadriceps injuries.

The Hawks played a tribute video to Young during a break in the second quarter, drawing a standing ovation from a crowd in which many fans were wearing his No. 11 Atlanta jersey. Otherwise, he could only watch from the bench as the rough equivalent of a G League squad was blown out by the home team.

Atlanta led by 15 at the end of the first quarter and totally ran away from the Wizards in the third period, stretching the lead to 100-64.

Will Riley led Washington with 18 points.

Up next

The teams meet again Thursday night to complete back-to-back games in Atlanta.

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

TORONTO (AP) — Cason Wallace matched his career high with 27 points, Isaiah Joe had 22, and the short-handed Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Toronto Raptors 116-107 on Tuesday night for their fifth win in six games.

Alex Caruso scored 16 points, Luguentz Dort had 15 and Isaiah Hartenstein 11 as the NBA-leading Thunder won their third straight in Toronto.

Oklahoma City is an NBA-best 21-7 on the road.

Canadian star and reigning NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remained sidelined for the Thunder because of an abdominal strain. He didn’t travel with the team on its lone regular-season visit to Canada.

In his place, Wallace provided his second straight 20-point game, adding six assists and eight rebounds.

Oklahoma City was also without Ajay Mitchell (abdominal strain) and Jalen Williams (strained right hamstring). Caruso returned after missing Sunday’s home win over Cleveland because of a sprained left ankle.

RJ Barrett scored 21 points and Immanuel Quickley and Ja’Kobe Walter each had 17 but the Raptors lost for the first time in three games.

Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram each scored 15 points and Jamal Shead added 13.

Oklahoma City led 96-71 with 1:55 remaining in the third quarter before Toronto battled back, tying it 101-101 on Shead’s 3-pointer with 4:06 to play.

After the Thunder missed 14 of their first 15 field-goal attempts in the fourth, Wallace responded to Shead’s 3 by making back-to-back shots, then forcing a steal and feeding Joe for a 3.

Toronto’s Jakob Poeltl (lower back) sat out on the first night of a back-to-back. The Raptors host Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs on Wednesday night.

Up next

Thunder: At Detroit on Wednesday night.

Raptors: Host San Antonio on Wednesday night.

___

AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba

Myles Borne is the new North American Champion after dethroning Ethan Page on "WWE NXT," just before Page would have become the longest reigning NA Champion in "NXT" history. Despite the best efforts of various heels on the roster aligned with Page, Borne, with help from babyface backup, won his first title.

Borne targeted the ankle of Page that he Pillman-ized last week on the show throughout the match. The challenger had control of the bout until Page hit an Ego's Edge on the commentary desk, then another minutes later back in the ring. The match rolled on and the men traded strikes and back and forth until Page got Borne to the top turnbuckle and hit him with a superplex.

Page couldn't keep Borne down, however, and Borne tried to rally with a dropkick as Page was mouthing off to him. As he was trying to regain momentum, the Vanity Project ran out, and Jackson Drake hit Borne with his EVOLVE Championship as the referee was distracted. Hank and Tank, along with Shiloh Hill, came out to even the odds, but Ricky Saints was perched atop the ropes, ready to attack Borne. NXT Champion Joe Hendry appeared to take out Saints.

The champion looked for the Twisted Grin, but Borne sent him crashing face-first into the exposed turnbuckle. He hit a Borne Again for the victory.

Read more: Meet The Real-Life Partners Of The NXT Roster

Don't miss any of the major wrestling headlines. Sign up to our free newsletter for the biggest stories, sent straight to your inbox. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google.

Read the original article on Wrestling Inc.

NEW YORK (AP) — Marvin Bagley III scored 22 points, Naji Marshall had 21 and the Dallas Mavericks beat the Brooklyn Nets 123-114 on Tuesday night after both teams arrived in New York earlier in the day.

Both clubs played road games on Sunday and neither was able to fly into the New York area because of a blizzard. The Mavericks stayed in Indiana and the Nets remained in Atlanta. Both flew Tuesday and arrived in the early afternoon.

The change in schedule didn't affect the Mavericks, who scored a season-high 76 points in the first half and won their second straight after a 10-game skid.

Brandon Williams had 19 points and 10 assists, while Klay Thompson added 17 points for the Mavericks, who shot 58.5% from the field while playing their fourth consecutive game without No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg because of a sprained left foot.

Michael Porter Jr. scored 26 points and Noah Clowney had 22 for the Nets, who lost their fifth straight. Terance Mann had 17 points off the bench and Nic Claxton finished with 16 points and nine rebounds.

Mann hit back-to-back 3-pointers to bring Brooklyn within two with 7:42 to play, but the Mavericks recovered and pushed the margin back into double digits in the final minute.

Up next

Mavericks: Host Sacramento on Thursday.

Nets: Host San Antonio on Thursday.

___

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

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Joe Gibbs Racing on Tuesday night asked for a restraining order preventing former competition director Chris Gabehart from working for Spire Motorsports. JGR also added Spire as a defendant in the lawsuit accusing Gabehart of embarking on “a brazen scheme to steal JGR’s most sensitive information.”

The amendment filed in the Western District of North Carolina asks that Gabehart be prevented from working for another NASCAR team in the same capacity he worked for JGR for 18 months.

The suit alleges Gabehart violated his contract and stole confidential team trade secrets when “his demands for additional authority were rebuffed by JGR’s owner." JGR claims Gabehart has caused more than $8 million in damages to JGR.

JGR's initial filing last week did not request an injunction preventing Gabehart from working for Spire, or name Spire as a defendant in the suit.

Spire said it would have a response to the amended filing on Wednesday.

JGR was founded by Joe Gibbs in 1992 after he won three Super Bowls as Washington’s football coach. Gibbs is a member of both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and NASCAR Hall of Fame and now co-owns JGR with his daughter-in-law, Heather. The team fields Cup cars for Christopher Bell, Chase Briscoe, Ty Gibbs and Denny Hamlin.

Gabehart joined JGR in 2012 as an engineer, worked his way to crew chief for Hamlin, and became competition director ahead of the 2025 season. Gabehart spent six seasons as Hamlin's crew chief and the duo won 22 Cup races — two of which were the Daytona 500 — and qualified for the championship finale three times.

Hamlin finished fifth or better in six seasons under Gabehart, while Hamlin's wins and laps-led were second best in the Cup Series during that period.

The lawsuit claims Gabehart throughout last season wanted complete responsibility and control over all competition departments and asked Joe Gibbs in a Nov. 6, 2025, meeting for “carte blanche authority over all racing decisions.”

The suit said Gibbs denied the request and Gabehart said he wanted to leave the organization. In the course of negotiating a separation agreement, JGR alleges it learned Gabehart had been meeting with Spire Motorsports, which triggered the organization to do a forensic analysis of Gabehart’s team-issued laptop.

“The results were shocking,” the suit alleges, claiming it found Google searches about Spire in October and November of last year, folders titled “Spire” and “Past Setups” and more than a dozen images of JGR files containing confidential information and trade secrets.

The amended filing says Gabehart has not worked for JGR since Nov. 10, 2025, and turned in his laptop at that time.

JGR alleges it learned on Feb. 11 that Gabehart planned to become the chief motorsports officer at Spire, where he would be responsible for all of Spire’s racing strategy and operations. JGR’s amended filing includes a Feb. 9 termination of employment letter with Gabehart.

Spire co-owner Jeff Dickerson first confirmed he had hired Gabehart last weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

JGR contends Gabehart knew his actions accessing JGR materials was unlawful and he took intentional steps to avoid detection and hide his digital trail. The amendment claims Gabehart had knowledge of the forensic process because of another 2024 incident in which a former JGR employee illegally took information to a rival race team.

While that 2024 incident is widely known throughout the industry, JGR has never before publicly acknowledged it and did not take legal action against that former employee.

Cary Davis, the attorney representing Gabehart, has said he can not comment on the suit. Gabehart on social media last week called the claims “frivolous and retaliatory” and said a third-party expert had examined his laptop, cell phone and Google Drive and “found no evidence to support the baseless allegations in JGR’s lawsuit. We even offered JGR the opportunity to do a similar review of Spire’s systems. JGR refused that offer and filed this spiteful lawsuit instead.”

___

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

INDIANAPOLIS — See anything on the Chicago Bears roster that interests you? Reach out to Ryan Poles.

The general manager is willing to consider just about anything as the team seeks to create needed salary-cap flexibility in the next two weeks. The Bears are trying to thread the needle of being competitive again in 2026 while building a foundation to remain that way for seasons to come — and they’re in information-gathering mode this week at the NFL scouting combine.

They currently project to be a few million dollars over the cap, and there aren’t a lot of simple ways to clear large chunks of space without starting the tricky process of rolling it into next year and then repeating the process a few times until finding themselves in cap hell.

So the Bears are open-minded, willing to consider a wide range of options if they present the possibility of helping now and into the future. The situation is such that they might wind up parting with more than one player they really would like back.

“This is one of the closest-knit groups I’ve ever been a part of, last year’s team,” coach Ben Johnson said Tuesday. “That’s hard to generate. I wish there was some magic stick you could just float on out there to make that happen. We had a lot of high-character players. They came together and they wanted what was best for the team and for their buddies. That’s a hard thing to replicate.

“We have to do what is best for the team, and as we stack back up the 90-man roster again, we’ve got numerous holes to fill.”

During separate media availabilities with Poles and Johnson, a few names were floated. Poles said the Bears have fielded trade calls for backup quarterback Tyson Bagent, whom they rewarded with an early contract extension last August.

It sure sounds like Bagent is available — if the price is right. What that is remains to be seen, but it’s hard to imagine a mid-round draft pick doing the trick when you know of Johnson’s affinity for the former undrafted free agent.

Want wide receiver DJ Moore? What do you have to offer?

“We want him here,” Poles said. “We think highly of him. He’s a great teammate. He has been productive pretty consistently over the last however many years he’s been here. So I have nothing but great things to say about him.

“But this is the time now where we have to look at all the different scenarios to see what can allow us to put the best team out there. And I’ve talked about this before: There are relationships there. There’s a lot there that makes it really, really difficult. He’s a guy we want here. But we have to look at all the different scenarios.”

The Moore situation is interesting. It’s not lip service. The Bears want him back but they need cap space too. His contract is such that they would not benefit from releasing him. They would create $16.5 million in cap space if they traded him.

Would another team trade a pick and agree to take on the $24.5 million Moore is owed this season? Oh, by the way, $15.5 million of the $24.5 million he’s owed in 2027 becomes fully guaranteed on March 13. The Bears might have to pay down the contract to trade Moore, and at that point they might be better off keeping him.

It stands to reason linebacker Tremaine Edmunds will be released to create $15 million in cap space, but that hasn’t happened yet. Tight end Cole Kmet? Running back D’Andre Swift?

“I feel pretty good about the guys you just mentioned being here,” Poles said about Kmet and Swift. “But again, there’s a lot more calls coming in, interest in these guys, that we have to kind of sequence that out to see how it impacts our team.”

That means determining the replacement cost and how creating additional holes on the roster would affect the order of team needs.

“We know what we need to do, but any new, unique opportunities that might pop up are usually going to pop up here,” Poles said. “And then we’ll get back and kind of sort it all out and make decisions.”

Coming off their first NFC North title since 2018, the Bears aren’t fixing to go all-in on 2026 and create a situation in which their window for competition is closing — even temporarily — when quarterback Caleb Williams should be entering his prime. Poles praised vice president of football administration Matt Feinstein, who will be busy managing the cap in the weeks and months to come.

“We want to stay in that sweet spot where we have a maximum amount of flexibility as we move on,” Poles said. “Not only for this year but three years down the road.

“I hope eventually to have a quarterback situation, too, where we’ve got to pay a young quarterback. That comes into play as well. I think we’re getting closer and closer to clarity on that side of things, which helps us start to build those models to make sure we’re doing the right thing.”

Johnson beamed about Williams and how his play took off in a short period of time. The coach has talked about going back to ground zero after such a successful season. That’s because success in the NFL never is guaranteed to carry from one season to the next. The good thing is Williams won’t be learning from scratch this April like he was when the offseason program commenced a year ago.

“We saw enormous growth over the course of the season,” Johnson said. “I keep going back to what 7-on-7 looked like at the end of the year versus what it looked like to start. A drill as simple as that, yet you see him look so much more comfortable going through some of those same plays.

“A lot of it was like riding a bike for the first time with some of these concepts. You just hadn’t seen it and you get thrown a different coverage each and every time, and now you can accelerate your vision a little bit and that’s what he’s learning to do. That’s why I’m really confident in the direction he is going. I’m excited for him. I really do think this next offseason we’ll see significant strides.”

How things shake out in terms of the cap will be interesting to watch.

“Prepare for the unpredictable,” one longtime league observer predicted, knowing Johnson will have a hand in the building process.

The unpredictable sounds like the kind of move that hasn’t been predicted for weeks now.

“You might have an off-the-wall idea that you’ve kind of got to talk it through of what the consequences might be if you went down that road,” Johnson said. “That’s this time of year. You’re trying to, as I’ve been saying all day long, accumulate the best 90-man roster you possibly can. We need it to be as competitive as it’s ever been so that we take the next step.”

Have one of those off-the-wall ideas? Try Poles. He’s willing to listen.

Feb. 24—No other player on the Eastern Washington men's basketball team has been around the Big Sky Conference as long as Emmett Marquardt.

Marquardt sat on the bench as a redshirt in 2023-24 and then started every game for the Eagles last season, which means he's seen or played against Northern Colorado — Eastern's opponent at 6 p.m. Thursday at Reese Court in Cheney — more than any of his teammates.

And to Marquardt, there's a simple reason for the Bears' recent success: continuity. He points to Brock Wisne and Zach Bloch, two seniors who have played all of their college basketball at Northern Colorado.

"I know it factors into their success," the redshirt sophomore said Tuesday. "When you have guys like that who have been in a system like (coach Steve) Smiley's, where you're just reading what the defense is doing, the best way to get good at that is chemistry on the court."

Their veteran presence, Marquardt said, is one reason why the Bears are peaking at precisely the right time — just as the Eagles are.

"They whip the ball around, they share the ball, the ball never sticks, and they have guys who can create offensively, not just by dribbling down but with simple basketball plays: back cuts, pick and rolls," he said. "They play a really unselfish brand of basketball."

Eastern hasn't had the same continuity that Northern Colorado is enjoying, and the Eagles certainly had their struggles as they developed relationships between all the team's new players. Smiley is in his sixth year as the Bears' head coach, and in each of the last two seasons his team has earned a top-two seed in the Big Sky Tournament.

"Chemistry is a real thing that cannot be replicated," Marquardt said. "You cannot just put pieces together and have it work out (immediately)."

But Marquardt also said the Eagles haven't broken, and now here they are: riding a six-game winning streak and sitting in a second-place tie in the Big Sky with three regular -season games left. All three of them the Eagles (11-17, 9-6 Big Sky) will play at home.

The last time the Eagles lost was on Jan. 31, in Greeley, 74-71 to the Bears. And the Bears — winners of seven straight — haven't lost since then, either. They are now 18-10 overall and 8-7 in the Big Sky, part of a five-team logjam between second and sixth place in the standings.

"We learned that we just had to play together as a team," EWU grad senior Kiree Huie said of that road trip to Northern Colorado and Northern Arizona. "That was a bad trip, coming out with two losses against two teams at the bottom of the conference. But we learned that we had to play better, buy into what coach (Dan Monson) was saying and trust one another."

Through 15 conference games, Eastern ranks in the league's top five in nearly every category, including the No. 1 spot in 3-point percentage (39%) and 3-point defense (30.4%).

Statistically the Bears are among the league's best teams as well . Their rebounding margin of plus 4.2 is the league's highest and they have the veteran trio of Wisne, Block and Quinn Denker.

Denker in particular has been a force. The grad senior who played previously at Cal State San Marcos and then at Idaho is the seventh-leading scorer during Big Sky play this season at 18.2 points per game. He also ranks eighth in rebounding (6.1 per game) and first in assists (7.9).

"He has a great all-around game, and he has a motor to rebound, a motor to find the open guy," Huie said of Denker. "And he can score when he has to."

Teamed up with Wisne (17.3 points and 6.8 rebounds per game) and Bloch (11.3 points per game, 37.4% from 3), Denker and the Bears have a formidable top three — even if it took them half the Big Sky schedule to find their top gear.

"I think we all knew they would be a competitive team, and they struggled early," Huie said. "But they hit their stride at the right time."

Tyler Herro and the Heat appreciate that ball movement is a big part of their offense originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Miami Heat are one of the most exciting teams to watch in the NBA this season. They play with the fastest pace in the league, as they love to go out in transition. This was a shift they made this season, as they went away from the methodical basketball they played with Jimmy Butler. 

Head coach Erik Spoelstra made a point that he wants the Heat to play with more pace. With that kind of change, touches have become more diverse for the Heat players, so everyone gets a shot to contribute on offense. This is a change that players appreciate, including Tyler Herro.

Ball movement is crucial for the Heat's successful offense

Playing with the fastest pace in the league can be tough to go against for most teams. The Heat have all types of players who thrive with that kind of play style, including first-time All-Star Norman Powell and Jaime Jaquez Jr.

It is one of the toughest systems to play against because the Heat's effort level is always high. Ball movement is also quite strong with the Heat because they have a lot of unselfish players. Of course, Herro and Powell like their isolation plays, but they are not selfish with their touches.

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

The Heat may have three All-Star-level players with Herro, Powell, and Bam Adebayo. However, they do not have that true #1 option who can truly lead them to victories like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander does with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Miami does it by committee, which is why they love to move the ball on offense. It can be challenging to keep doing so, which is why the Heat often struggle on offense. However, that is the long-term vision they are focused on following up on.

"When we are top of the league in possessions per game, we don't have to pressure to score their average, we're gonna have enough possessions where everybody is going to touch the ball. We have a bunch of unselfish guys on the team," Herro said before the Heat's game against the Bucks.

"Every night can be a different guy's night. We’re all happy to see the other guys succeed. Ultimately, it’s about winning."

Herro saying this is significant because he has stepped up as a primary ball handler. Most of the time, he is looking to score, but he is willing to make the right play and be unselfish. It is a great look for Herro because he wants to keep leading the Heat on offense.

More NBA news: 

• Haywood Highsmith wants to get healthy to help the Phoenix Suns improve their depth
• Heat forward Andrew Wiggins celebrates the achievement of scoring 15,000 career points
• Miami Heat big man Kel'el Ware honored to be part of NBA All-Star Weekend as a sophomore
• Norman Powell opens up on first career All-Star appearance
• Miami Heat star named one of NBA's most overrated players

Feb. 24—We went overtime on the latest Zags Insiders Podcast in honor of Team USA's golden hockey teams and Gonzaga's busy stretch to close the regular season.

There was a lot to sort through for former GU center Richard Fox, analyst on Gonzaga telecasts on KHQ and SWX, and yours truly with the selection committee's top 16 seeds, GU's two wins last week, Senior Night vs. Portland on Wednesday and a showdown looming Saturday night against Saint Mary's in Moraga.

Here are a few excerpts. Tune in for the full 66-minute podcast at https://youtu.be/YVUPdkj2UB4" or https://www.spokesman.com/podcasts/zags-basketball-insiders/.

Graham Ike finds a way

Fox: What (Pacific) did to Ike, he felt off in the first half, and that happens to even the best players. He kind of got stubborn about (taking jumpers) but to be fair, every time he'd touch it there'd be no less than four Pacific players with at least one foot in the paint.

That has an impact on what you're seeing and how you think you can score. I thought in the second half he obviously did a better job of getting deeper touches. He would spin away from the double, but he also started catching it in that higher post area, kind of on the logo just under free-throw line. That's a really difficult place to double and he had some success.

And he hit some really hard shots. That's what great players do and they needed every single one of those. He played like the (WCC) player of the year in the second half.

Meehan: He's carried a massive load on his shoulders with (Braden) Huff's injury. In the first half it really felt like he played into Pacific's hands. This is what they were willing to give him and he took it, the perimeter shots.

It felt like this was a game he was tiptoeing on that line — he did this against San Diego — his edge is what makes him who he is, but there's a point where he gets to that line or even over it.

Mark Few said afterward that he gets fouled every play. That's an exaggeration but not a huge exaggeration. He is getting fouled a ton in there. He picked up that technical (foul) in frustration. He's been great about it all year. He's had a couple times where he pushed that edge a little too far.

He did play through it. They don't win that game without him. If he scored 12 points, where are the rest of the points coming from?

Zags, Gaels always a big deal

Meehan: There isn't going to be lot of space in the paint. Those two guys from Pacific were big guys and they held their ground. (Saint Mary's Harry) Wessels and (Andrew) McKeever are enormous and the help-side defender might be (Paulius) Murauskas, who is 6-8, 230-ish.

There is no mystery with these teams. You know what's coming — what Pacific did to a larger degree. Try to make Gonzaga play half-court offense, execute, and try to make them shoot over you. They're probably going to tempt them at the 3-point line with a couple of their guys. If you want to shoot it, go ahead, we're willing to live with that.

Offensively, they're going to run their stuff, milk the clock. That crowd is going to be out of their minds with the last (WCC regular-season) game against Gonzaga. It'll be their Senior Night. Start to finish, it's going to be a tough place to play.

Fox: Pacific's game-plan is not that much dissimilar to what Saint Mary's is going to do. The difference is Saint Mary's has much bigger and better bigs and better players, and they're playing at home.

You're going to see heavy doses where it's one-on-one coverage with Graham and they'll give him that jump shot, but as he starts trying to work his way into the paint they're going to have a lot of people around him.

I just have this concern you're going to see some iteration of this defensive scheme every night. That makes life so difficult for Graham. They have to figure out a solution to that. Part of reason he's taking all these 3s is he's just as capable as anybody else and he's also getting open looks.

They just played Wessels or McKeever (in Spokane), they didn't go double big. I'll be very interested to see if they do that in Moraga, where they put one of their big guys on (Jalen) Warley and even for small stretches on Tyon Grant-Foster, understanding that he's going to drive against that matchup.

Feb. 24—It's no wonder the Idaho women's basketball team is leading the race for the Big Sky Conference regular-season crown.

They're playing faster than everyone else.

With dependable point guard Hope Hassmann at the wheel, second-year coach Arthur Moreira has been able to install an up-tempo system that has helped Idaho thrive. At 14-1 and a game ahead of Montana State, the Vandals are in the driver's seat with three games to play and the conference tournament looming in two weeks.

"Playing fast took a little time to do and figure out," said Hassman, whose Vandals are averaging a league-best 79.4 points per game. "But we can go into the bench really deep. It's awesome. Playing point guard in our system is a lot of fun."

The results have been staggering. Idaho is riding a 12-game win streak and sit 23-5 overall — gaudy numbers that hearken back to the program's best team more than 40 years ago, when those Vandals advanced to the 1985 NCAA Tournament — eventually losing to Cheryl Miller and USC.

That UI team fashioned winning streaks of 15 and 12 games on their way to a 28-2 record.

These Vandals haven't lost since Jan. 10 when they fell 99-66 to MSU in Bozeman. Idaho atoned for that defeat in the rematch a month later, taking out the Bobcats 73-70 in overtime in Moscow.

Idaho has gotten solid play inside from Debora dos Santos (11.6 points, 7.6 rebounds) and Lorena Barbosa (8.7 points, 4.7 rebounds). And Krya Gardner (13.6 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.9 assists) has been elite in all phases.

But the driving force might be Hassmann, whose selfless style has impacted the Vandals from offense to defense to rebounding.

"I feel it all starts with team goals, then I take myself into account," Hassmann said.

For the season, the junior guard is averaging 14.1 points, 3.7 rebounds and 4.3 assists. She eclipsed the career 1,000-point scoring mark against Weber State Feb. 12 when she dropped a career-high 25 against the Wildcats in an 80-67 UI victory.

Hassmann, who grew up in Maple Valley, Washington, began her career at Cal State Fullerton before transferring to Idaho as a sophomore.

"I am very glad I went there," she said of Fullerton. "But I was looking for something a little different. More of a team culture."

She has found that and more in Moscow.

"We have such great community support," Hassman said. "We have so much more attendance from the students. It is so cool."

Hassmann, who is majoring in marketing, is doing her part to contribute to the culture. As much as she enjoys being stopped downtown and congratulated after a Vandals' win, she also embraces getting to cheer on UI's football and soccer teams.

"I love supporting other athletes," she said.

At the moment, the support seems firmly behind Hassmann's Vandals. Idaho hits the road Thursday to play Northern Arizona before closing at home against Northern Colorado on Saturday and Eastern Washington on Monday.

Win all three and the Vandals secure the No. 1 seed in Boise for the conference tourney, which begins March 7.

"Every opponent is looking to have their best game against us," Hassmann said. "We talk about it every day in practice — playing our game, not anybody else's."

So far, the attitude has worked 12 times in a row.

"It is special this year," she said. "We are doing something special. The goal is to reach March Madness."

PHOENIX – When the Phoenix Suns and Boston Celtics meet without their headliners, the spotlight doesn’t dim; it shifts. The Suns came in without Devin Booker or Dillon Brooks. The Celtics came in without Jayson Tatum or Jaylen Brown. In reality, it’s a stress test of organizational identity. Phoenix has fought hard though, and are only down at 50-46 halftime to the Celtics.

Feb 24, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Grayson Allen (8) against the Boston Celtics in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Phoenix found early lift from Royce O’Neale, who opened a perfect 3-for-3 from deep, spacing the floor and forcing Boston’s second unit to extend coverage. Meanwhile, Collin Gillespie drilled 2-of-3 from three, proving that readiness is currency in games like this. That efficiency keeps undermanned teams afloat.

Feb 24, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta (88) against the Phoenix Suns in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

But this contest hasn’t just been about shot-making. Questionable whistles have disrupted the rhythm. How the Suns process that frustration with body language, defensive rotations, and late-clock execution is the real question. For Suns fans, this is about depth charts and trust. Nationally, it’s about contender DNA. Championships aren’t secured by stars alone; they’re stabilized by infrastructure. Depth shooting swings games, and emotional control sustains them. Nights like this reveal which franchise principles transfer into playoff basketball.

Feb 24, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix guard Grayson Allen (8) against the Celtics in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen

The Sporting News High School Boys Basketball Top 25 — February 24: AZ Compass Prep still No. 1 after outlasting No. 8 Wasatch Academy last week originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

For the second consecutive Saturday night, the No. 1 AZ Compass Prep National [Chandler, AZ] Dragons were pushed to the limit, eventually outlasting the No. 8 Wasatch Academy [Mt. Pleasant, UT] Tigers in a 58-55 gut check.

That comes one week after the Dragons got by the No. 22 Oak Cliff Faith Family Academy [Dallas, TX] Eagles, 64-63, on a last-second free throw.

But those close calls are also quality wins, and they show that these Dragons have got the mettle to win in pressure situations. That could come in handy in the weeks to come when AZ Compass Prep is likely to play for a national title in the postseason.

It's also good enough to keep the Dragons in the top spot here in the rankings – one spot ahead of our new No. 2 Dynamic Prep. The Texans replace last week's No. 2 Link Academy [Branson, MO] Lions who fall to No. 10 this week after losing to a stout but unranked Dream City Christian National [Glendale, AZ] Eagles' team last week.

MORE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL

• The Sporting News High School Boys Basketball Preseason Top 25
• Top 25 schedule and results for the week of February 10-16

The Sporting News High School Boys Basketball Top 25 rankings

1. AZ Compass Prep National [Chandler, AZ] Dragons

2025-26 record: 20-1
Previous ranking: No. 1

Upcoming games: 2/27 — vs. Dream City Christian National

Another close win against a Top 25 opponent earns the AZ Compass Prep National squad another week here in the top position.

2. Dynamic Prep [Irving, TX]

2025-26 record: 16-1
Previous ranking: No. 3

Upcoming games: No games scheduled this week

Dynamic Prep doesn't have any more games showing on their schedule, but we continue to await any updates to the team's postseason schedule. But No. 2 Link Academy's loss to an unranked Dream City Christian National opened up space for Dynamic Prep to move up a spot this week.

3. Calvary Christian Academy [Fort Lauderdale, FL] Eagles

2025-26 record: 21-1
Previous ranking: No. 4

Upcoming games: 2/28 — vs. Saint Andrew's

Calvary Christian Academy has progressed to the FHSAA Class 3A regional finals without being seriously challenged so far. But with two other Top 50 programs among the classification's final eight, that could change in the coming weeks.

4. Prolific Prep [Fort Lauderdale, FL] Crew

2025-26 record: 29-3
Previous ranking: No. 5

Upcoming games: 2/27 — vs. West Oaks Academy

Prolific Prep has a light schedule this week, but the real test will come over the next few weeks when the postseason tourneys are announced.

5. SPIRE Academy National [Geneva, OH]

2025-26 record: 22-2
Previous ranking: No. 6

Upcoming games: No games scheduled this week

SPIRE Academy National doesn't have any games showing on its schedule this week, and we continue to await the release of postseason brackets to see who the Ohioans may play next.

6. Paul VI [Chantilly, VA] Panthers

2025-26 record: 29-2
Previous ranking: No. 7

Upcoming games: 2/25 — vs. St. Christopher's

Paul VI's postseason journey is under way, and next up for the Panthers is a Wednesday date with St. Christopher's.

7. Sierra Canyon [Chatsworth, CA] Trailblazers

2025-26 record: 25-1
Previous ranking: No. 9

Upcoming games: 2/24 — vs. Notre Dame SO

Sierra Canyon is into the Southern Section semifinals Tuesday night. If they get past Notre Dame SO, they'll face the winner of Harvard-Westlake against La Mirada for the section championship.

8. Wasatch Academy [Mt. Pleasant, UT] Tigers

2025-26 record: 21-5
Previous ranking: No. 8

Upcoming games: 2/27 — vs. Utah Prep

Wasatch Academy gave No. 1 AZ Compass Prep a run for its money last week before succumbing in a 58-55 loss. A tough Utah Prep squad awaits Friday night.

9. Principia [St. Louis, MO] Panthers

2025-26 record: 23-2
Previous ranking: No. 10

Upcoming games: No games scheduled this week

Principia's regular season has come to a close. Now, the question is whether the Panthers will get any postseason invitations.

10. Link Academy [Branson, MO] Lions

2025-26 record — 24-3
Previous ranking — No. 2

Upcoming games: 2/27 — Oak Cliff Faith Family Christian Academy

Link Academy stumbled in a loss to unranked Dream City Christian National last week, and now a Friday night date looms with a stout No. 21 Oak Cliff Faith Family Academy team that gave No. 1 AZ Compass Prep a run for its money a couple of weeks ago in a 64-63 loss.

STREAM: High school boys basketball, live on NFHS Network

11. Montverde [FL] Academy Eagles

2025-26 record: 20-5
Previous ranking: No. 11

Upcoming games: 2/27 — Tennessee Collegiate Academy

Montverde Academy heads into its regular-season finale on Friday against Tennessee Collegiate Academy on a 12-game roll, having not lost a game since a 64-59 setback to Link Academy on January 17.

12. CIA-Bella Vista Prep [Scottsdale, AZ] Bears

2025-26 record: 14-4
Previous ranking: No. 12

Upcoming games: 2/20 — vs. Sunrise Christian Academy

CIA-Bella Vista will also be wrapping up the regular season this Friday against Veritas Academy after which we will await word on whether or not the Bears will be invited to any major postseason events.

13. Archbishop Stepinac [White Plains, NY] Crusaders

2025-26 record: 22-4
Previous ranking: No. 14

Upcoming games: 2/17 — vs. Monsignor Scanlan

Sixteen straight wins have allowed Archbishop Stepinac to climb back up the Top 25, including two more victories last week in the playoffs over Monsignor Scanlan and Cardinal Hayes.

14. Bartlett [TN] Panthers 

2025-26 record: 25-4
Previous ranking: No. 15

Upcoming games: 2/24 — vs. Houston

Bartlett's postseason journey gets under way Tuesday with a tough first-round game against Houston.

15. Seven Lakes [Katy, TX] Spartans

2025-26 record: 33-0
Previous ranking: No. 16

Upcoming games: vs. Alief Taylor

Seven Lakes rolled through the regular-season unbeaten with a perfect 33-0 record, and now their march toward a Texas state championship gets under way Tuesday against Alief Taylor.

16. Webb [Knoxville, TN] Spartans

2025-26 record: 30-2
Previous ranking: No. 17

Upcoming games: 2/28 — vs. TBD

The Webb School has started its playoff run in Tennessee with a Saturday opponent to be determined after knocking off Knoxville Catholic last week.

17. Fishers [IN] Tigers

2025-26 record: 22-0
Previous ranking: No. 18

Upcoming games: No games scheduled this week

Fishers wrapped up an undefeated regular season last week, and next up for the Tigers' is the Indiana state playoffs.

18. Wisconsin Lutheran [Milwaukee, WI] Vikings

2025-26 record: 23-0
Previous ranking: No. 19

Upcoming games: 2/25 — vs. New Berlin West

Wisconsin Lutheran will make its final bid for an undefeated regular season Wednesday night against New Berlin West with the postseason looming.

19. Sunnyslope [Phoenix, AZ] Vikings

2025-26 record: 25-2
Previous ranking: No. 20

Upcoming games: 2/27 — vs. Brophy College Prep

Sunnyslope's postseason journey continues Friday night against Brophy College Prep in Arizona's Open Division quarterfinals.

20. Benet Academy [Lisle, IL] Redwings

2025-26 record: 30-1
Previous ranking: No. 21

Upcoming games: TBD

Benet Academy's regular-season has concluded, and we await the brackets for the Illinois IHSA postseason.

21. Oak Cliff Faith Family Academy [Dallas, TX] Eagles

2025-26 record: 25-8
Previous ranking: No. 22

Upcoming games: 2/24 — vs. Leadership Prep; 2/27 — vs. Link Academy

Oak Cliff Faith Family Academy is nearing the end of the regular season, but there's still a big game with Top Link Academy on Friday night.

22. Rainier Beach [Seattle, WA] Vikings

2025-26 record: 25-1
Previous ranking: No. 23

Upcoming games: 2/27 — vs. Bellevue

Nest up for Rainier Beach is Friday night's playoff duel with Bellevue.

23. Gainesville [GA] Red Elephants

2025-26 record: 27-0
Previous ranking: No. 24

Upcoming games: 2/25 — vs. Chamblee

Undefeated Gainesville will tip off the GHSA postseason Wednesday night against Chamblee.

24. Millennium [Goodyear, AZ] Tigers

2025-26 record: 23-3
Previous ranking: No. 25

Upcoming games: 2/27 — vs. Higley

Millennium's postseason journey continues in Arizona's Open Division with a Friday night matchup against Higley.

25. Lake Highland Prep [Orlando, FL] Highlanders

2025-26 record: 28-1
Previous ranking: Unranked

Upcoming games: 2/28 — vs. The Villages Charter