AL West: Mariners (17 votes)

Crowd: Mariners (95.6%)

• Zach: Knock it off. Get serious.
• Isabelle: This is weird, it makes me nervous, but it doesn’t mean it’s wrong…
• Eric: Such confidence in a Mariners roster is a very unfamiliar feeling, but the rest of the AL West just doesn’t scare me at all.
• John: MARITIME LAW IS IN EFFECT!
• Ryan: goms

AL Central: Tigers (9)

Royals (6), Guardians (2)
Crowd: Tigers (71.2%)

• Kate: I picked the Royals for everything last year and then they were terrible, but this year will be different, I swear. Did you watch the Wittz Carlton digital short? They are powered by friendship!
• Eric: I picked the Royals because other smart people picked them.
• Ryan: The Royals brought in their fences so much that even Jonathan India can hit a home run there now.
• John: The Royals are plucky (see the Wild Card section) and Maikel Garcia is a monster. But the Tigers got better at multiple spots this winter, much as I’d like Framber to be laughable. It’s theirs to lose.
• Max: I hate this division. (Royals)
• Nick T: Someone has to win this accursed division. (Tigers)

AL East: Blue Jays (9)

Red Sox (4), Yankees (4)
Crowd: Blue Jays (50.8%)

• Isabelle: Evidently a hot-ish take, but I am afraid of the Red Sox and I think they’re going to be very good.
• Nicky V: People are sleeping on the Red Sox. They’ll finish one game behind the Jays.
• Eric: This is my reverse jinx on the Jays.
• Ryan: I love the Sox rotation
• Ezra: I’m a little surprised people are so low on the Yankees. The Red Sox will be a factor, but I think it’s far from a sure thing that they’re going to step over them into the playoffs. Especially considering the Yankees beat em 2 outta 3 in the wildcard last year. 
• Nick T: I’m emotionally hedging on the Blue Jays. I want so badly to be wrong. Toronto’s pitching is certainly a reason to assume there will be some regression but it still feels like their division to lose.

AL WC: Red Sox (12), Royals (8), Yankees (7)

Tigers (6), Astros (3), Rays (2), A’s (1), Orioles (1), Rangers (1)
Crowd: Yankees (69.9%), Red Sox (45.9%), Guardians (24%)

• Zach: Get you a man who believes in you the way Kate believes in the 2020s Rangers.
• Kate: It is important to have a brand.
• Eric: Any person who believes in the Texas Rangers is not someone Kate will want to spend time with, I would wager.
• Ryan: The Rays are sneaky good. If I were braver, I’d pick them in the East. 
• John: The Rays are too sneaky and will get trampled for at least one more year. I cannot take seriously their pitching staff, perhaps to my peril. Kansas City, meanwhile, will feast upon much of the Central and be pesky against the coasts.
• Ezra: Whoever picked the A’s let me know. I want some of whatever you’re smoking. 
• Nick T: I’ve said I’ll stop believing in the Astros when they miss the playoffs. Well, as it happens I’m not built like that. Might need some professional help process these fears. For now I’m dumping them in WC3, and dumping my trauma here.

AL #1 Seed: Mariners (12)

Red Sox (2), Blue Jays (1), Royals (1), Yankees (1)
Crowd: Mariners (61%)

• Ryan: Smitty Werbenjägermanjensen
• Nick T: Mariners have the highest odds in the American League to make the playoffs (80.4%) and win the World Series (8.9%). I am extremely susceptible to propaganda. 

AL Sleeper Team (FG playoff odds <33.3%): A’s (6)

Guardians (4), Rays (3), White Sox (3)
Crowd: A’s (55.5%)

• Isabelle: On a fundamental level, I think the A’s and Rays should not be allowed to count as sleeper teams, given that at this point in their franchise histories they’re more sleeper team than “serious” team. But also there’s so much parity in the AL there really aren’t any other good options. What, like we’re going to pick the Angels?
• Zach: I do not understand what John, Ryan, and Connor see here. The White Sox have just five players who FG projects for at least 2 WAR, and the best of those five clocks in at 2.5. Not so much of a sleeper team as a coma-ridden one.
• Kate: I think the White Sox are a sexy sleeper pick because they’re showing some forms of life with young intriguing players after being so historically awful, but also, no. The A’s are the best team out of this group and it’s not close, even if all their games will be won 15-13, but I do love entertaining the potential of a Ben Williamson-led Rays team making things hard on the AL East.
• Ryan: I am intrigued by the White Sox catching duo, Colson Montgomery, Munetaka Murakami, Miguel Vargas, and even the left-for-dead Andrew Benintendi. The pitching is going to be a disaster, but Shane Smith is a bright spot. To be clear, this is a sleeper, “they might win 75 games and make for an annoying road trip in May.” But I think they’re trending up.
• John: Sacramento’s lack of selection is a sign of respect to the second-best team in the AL West. The ChiSox are indeed not a high-level club by projection, but they are mostly made up of young players who’ve been blocked elsewhere or only gotten a first or sparing taste of big league play. 
• Ezra: Dread it, run from it, the Guardians arrive (in the playoffs) all the same. 
• Nick T: Fangraphs is projecting the Guardians for 76 wins? Now I’m not gambling man, but that doesn’t mean I don’t know an easy over when I see one.

NL West: Dodgers (17)

Crowd: Dodgers (95.1%)

• Zach: The Dodgers have assembled a very good baseball team.
• Eric: Huge, if true.
• Ryan: This will be closer than people think? Their pitching could be a disaster with all of their bandaged starters. Their lineup is aging quickly, too. I expect something closer to last year’s win total.
• John: I agree with Ryan. L.A. has also made no secret that they attempt to manage their rotation to be healthy for the playoffs – a near-disaster last year as they were forced into the best-of-three Wild Card round. Yes, they won and exposed Milwaukee and upset the Phillies to take another title, but this is not fait accompli. 
• Max: I hope you are right, but I unfortunately think you are wrong. The NL West has little to no pitching outside of the Dodgers staff, regardless of how poorly they seem to be able to manage injury. Logan Webb is great, but Nick Pivetta is the second best starting pitcher in this division that’s not based out of LA, and that is Not Great for the chances of anyone dethroning the reigning champs.
• Nick T: Two things can be true. The Dodgers ARE aging, but they also did more to improve this offseason than the rest of the division. Adding Kyle Tucker will kinda do that by default. Is the unanimous vote potentially disrespectful to other teams in this division? Not really. If you want to compete with the Dodgers, you have to spend like the Dodgers. Until then, I’ll write their name atop this division in Sharpie for the foreseeable future.

NL Central: TIE – Brewers (8), Cubs (8)

Pirates (1)
Crowd: Cubs (58.8%)

• Kate: I picked the Cubs but I see how this one is close. I think the Cubs are further along with the on-field product but I think the Brewers are the better organization, if that makes sense?
• Ryan: 100% agree with Kate’s assessment but lean towards org quality, assuming they know something about their guys the projections don’t see.
• Max: The Brewers are always built to win in the regular season. Tons of quality depth and elite organizational know-how. I thought they had a weird offseason, but they kind of seem inevitable in a relatively weak division.
• Nick T: I doubted the Brewers last year. Have I been wrong before? No, it’s literally never happened. It’s going to take a while to recover from this.

NL East: Mets (9)

Phillies (8)
Crowd: Mets, 47.5%

• Isabelle: I’ve been Phillies-pilled since Brad Hand joined their bullpen, but I think some combination of the clubhouse culture and general refusal to make substantial off-season upgrades is going to make it a rough season for the defending division champs.
• Ryan: Sometimes I forget just how good the Phillies pitching is when healthy, and I refuse to pick the Mets. 
• Ezra: ITS ALL ABOUT THE METS BABY, LOVE THE METS, LETS GO METS.
• Zach: On the one hand, the Mets have a dynamite roster. On the other hand, they are the New York Mets.
• John: I am astonished nobody picked Atlanta. But I am not about to be part of the solution.

NL WC: Braves (9), Brewers (8), TIE – Cubs (7), Padres (7), Phillies (7)

Mets (5), Pirates (3), Giants (2), Diamondbacks (1), Marlins (1)
Crowd: Phillies (49.2%), Brewers (41.5%), Padres (41.5%)

• Isabelle: The NL Central is so boring. Sorry. Get outta October and let the coastal elites play. (That last part is a joke, please don’t yell at me or tell my sister’s boyfriend who is an ardent Cardinals fan.) (Braves, Phillies, Brewers)
• Eric: I’m here for the Pirates to somehow make a run before they lose Paul Skenes.

NL #1 Seed: Dodgers (15)

Brewers (1), Phillies (1)
Crowd: Dodgers (86.8%)

• Nicky V: Whatever. You guys want us to write something for this?
• Eric: Atomic bomb versus coughing baby type shit.

NL Sleeper Team (FG playoff odds <33.3%): Marlins (7)

Padres (5), Reds (3), Diamondbacks (1), Nationals (1)
Crowd: Padres (63.5%)

• Isabelle: Call me WBC-brained, but the Marlins are intriguing… I wouldn’t say they have the sauce yet, but they sure are getting that mise en place ready.
• Eric: I love the Marlins because they’ve because it feels like they’ve been almost good for like 12 years now.
• Kate: I am sorry, I am saying Calle No-cho to the Marlins. You are being taken in by the electric sex of Miami and their sweet, sweet uniforms. The Padres having to be a sleeper team feels undignified, but them’s the breaks of playing in a division with the Dodgers. Poor Jackson Merrill deserves better.
• Nick T: I’m going to invoke health as a reason why I think the Reds are going to be good. Don’t look at Hunter Greene! Stop that! The core lineup is the healthiest it’s been in three years, and Elly De La Cruz looked straight-up superhuman this spring.

AL Champions: Mariners (14)

Yankees (2), Blue Jays (1)
Crowd: Mariners (84.2%)

• Kate: I picked the Yankees because I predicted a Yankees-Dodgers World Series because I famously hate whimsy in any form.
• Nick T: Better to have loved and lost…
• Eric: 84% picking the Mariners to win their first pennant ever, hell yeah. It’s called manifesting, sweetie.
• Ryan: goms

NL Champions: Dodgers (12)

Mets (3), Brewers (1), Cubs (1)
Crowd: Dodgers (69.4%)

• Isabelle: At this point, I don’t even know if I fully believe anyone can unseat the Dodgers, but I’m just so catastrophically bored by them that I’m manifesting something new.
• Ryan: Thwarting a three-peat will be ever so sweet

World Series Champions: TIE – Mariners (8), Dodgers (8)

Brewers (1)
Crowd: Mariners (61.3%)

• Connor: Marinerz r00l
• Isabelle: What are predictions if not wishcasting?
• Nicky V: If not wishcasting, they’re an opportunity to mitigate: If the Mariners lose, at least I can say I was right. 
• Eric: This is honestly one of the first times ever that one could pick the Mariners as a legit WS contender and not be accused of being a complete homer, an idiot, or both.
• Ryan: goms

WS MVP: Shohei (5)

Julio (3), Muñoz (2), J. Chourio, E. Díaz, M. Garver, J. Naylor, C. Raleigh, W. Smith, Y. Yamamoto
Crowd: Julio (21.9%)

• Isabelle: Listen, if the Seattle Mariners are going to win the World Series some weird shit is going to need to happen. (Garver)
• Nick T: rhythmically banging my fists on my extremely flimsy desk WEIRD SHIT WEIRD SHIT WEIRD SHIT (Naylor)
• Max: Can’t wait to see Shohei and Co. duke it out with Mitch Garver’s team of destiny (Julio)

Awards

AL MVP: Julio (7)

Witt (4), R. Anthony, J. Caminero, A. Judge, N. Kurtz
Crowd: Julio (38.6%)

• Anders: This one feels pretty wide open. I like Nick Kurtz as a dark horse. After what he did in just 117 games last year (38 bombs, 4.6 fWAR), it’s not hard to imagine another step forward yielding a peak Vlad Jr. kind of season, especially in that tiny ballpark.
• Zach: Wow, strong disagree, Ders! I think this is quite clearly Judge’s to lose. (Nevertheless, I picked Witt.)
• Isabelle: Julioooo to the moooon
• Nicky V: I hate to say it, but damn, Witt Jr. is so good. 
• Kate: Witt Jr. is annoyingly good and I have the Royals making the playoffs led by an incandescent BWJ (and his BFF Vinnie Pasquantino) so I think he has a chance to unseat Judge.
• Eric: Judge will never win MVP again, bad karma forever for winning it over a once-in-a-generation season by a catcher. This is why he didn’t do shit in the WBC. (Julio)
• Ryan: I might have chosen Witt, but then I was asked to predict Julio’s season.

AL Cy Young: Crochet (5)

Skubal (4), Gilbert, (2), Kirby (2), Woo (2), Ragans
Crowd: Skubal (31.2%)

• Zach: I’ve picked Gilbert every year, and I’ll keep doing it until I’m right because eventually I will be.
• Isabelle: ^I believe! Even if it does then make it particularly challenging to sign him to an extension at the All-Star break.
• Kate: It me, Cole Ragans believer. Do not speak to me of his ERA.
• Eric: I was not a Woo believer last year and I looked silly because of it, so now I am a Woo guy. 
• Ryan: Did you know Tarik Skubal went to Seattle U? 

AL Rookie of the Year: McGonigle (8)

Tolle (4), Early (2), DeLauter, Valera, Yesavage
Crowd: Colt Emerson (24.3%)

• Zach: Love to see the homerism from the crowd. I suppose it’s true that most outlets rank him higher than everyone here but McGonigle (and the injured Yesavage). But he looked overmatched during Spring Training, so while I like what he’ll do in his career, I don’t think he’s a burst-onto-the-scene-as-an-All-Star-at-20-years-old guy. (Tolle)
• Connor: I failed to update my Yesavage prediction in time after he hit the IL with a shoulder impingement, but I am famously terrible at the ROY predictions (Francisco Mejía and Curtis Mead,,, hello) so I’m sticking with it.
• Eric: More like Ye-Not-Gonna-Be-Savage in 2026. (McGonigle)

NL MVP: Shohei (10)

Soto (3), Tatís (2), Griffin, Lindor
Crowd: Shohei (60.3%)

• Nicky V: I’m going all in on Konnor Griffin – he’s the real deal and is going to be the MVP and the ROTY. 
• John: At some point in his career, Juan Soto will stop being the “who’s the best player you saw who never won a MVP” and I think this is the ideal season.

NL Cy Young: Skenes (8)

Sánchez (3), Yamamoto (2), J. Luzardo, E. Pérez, Webb
Crowd: Skenes (65.2%)

• Kate: I picked Yamamoto just because it’s so boring to pick Skenes over and over again, and it fits my narrative of the Dodgers winning the World Series.
• Ryan: I hope it’s anyone else, but I do not dare guess.
• John: #ForeverGiantWebb

NL Rookie of the Year: Griffin (8)

McLean (5), Stewart (2), Painter, Wetherholt
Crowd: Griffin (24.0%)

• Isabelle: The Mc’s have ROY locked on both sides. Especially for the Mets to fulfill my predictions, they’re going to need a deGrom 2.0 type of experience from McLean.
• Nicky V: Seriously, have you ever seen the guy? Griffin is an absolute freak. 
• Ryan: I’m reluctant to say anything nice about the Mets, but I will say th-
• John: Sue me, I like a Phillies pitcher, it’s actually a thing they’ve been good at lately.
• Max: Sal Stewart in Cincinnati’s baby park is going to hit one billion home runs
• Nick T: I’m putting my money where my mouth is. I drafted JJ Wetherholt in all of my fantasy leagues this year. He’s on the Cardinals Opening Day roster and while games played hasn’t exactly been a prerequisite for recent seasons, a steady-eddy infielder feels like a safe pick. 

Miscellaneous

Mariners Wins: Median – 93

High – 98 (Ryan), Low – 88 (Gotty)
Crowd: Median – 93

• Zach: I think the Mariners are better than 90 wins on paper. I just also think the Mariners have only very rarely been both lucky and good in the same year. I still have them as AL Champs, but I don’t think we’ll get a wire-to-wire magic carpet ride.
• Nicky V: At 91, I am on the same page as Zach. We’ll get unlucky for sure. 
• Ryan: goms
• John: PECOTA has them at 93-94. Just for our level-setting.

Julio fWAR: Median – 6.9

High – 10.3 (Ryan), Low – 5.5 (Matthew Roberson)
Crowd: Median – 7.0

• Ryan: This is it. This is the year. This is the one you will never, ever forget. 
• Isabelle: It doesn’t need to be his career year, but if the Mariners are winning (or even just going!) to the World Series, you bet your butt Julio is going to be on fire.
• Eric: Nice.

M’s Pitching fWAR Leader: Woo (8)

Kirby (5), Gilbert (3)
Crowd: Woo (48.0%)

• Zach: I really think Woo has maxed out, quality-wise. And even in the healthiest season of his career, last year, he still missed time. I voted Gilbert, who’s only ever hit the IL once
• Nicky V: Naur. Woo has more in the tank, he can continue to improve the breaking stuff or his change-up to unlock that last level. And, he will stay healthy! I swear!!
• Kate: As the resident Old, I would like to retroactively and honorarily pick Luis Castillo. I don’t actually think he will be the fWAR leader, but I don’t think we ever appreciated Castillo enough last year for literally being the Rock of the rotation, consistently making his starts while everyone else went through whatever they were going through. We love a millennial hustle-coded work ethic.
• Eric: Big Woo guy, always have been.
• Ryan: Please one of these guys take the step finally I don’t care who, but I think it’ll be Gilbert.

Highest WPA among Bazardo, Brash, Ferrer, Speier: TIE – Brash (7), Ferrer (7)

Speier (2), Bazardo
Crowd: Brash (54.7%)

• Zach: If I’m known for anything, it’s being the preeminent Gabe Guy, a personal brand I take enormous pride in. But for this question, I went with Brash, for two reasons. First, if anything happens to Muñoz, then Brash will get the save opportunities and the chance to eat up the WPA—Muñoz isn’t an option here not because he’s better, but because as the closer, he’s structurally more likely to accrue WPA. Second, with Speier and Ferrer both being lefties, they’re tracking to split the high-leverage opportunities where Brash is the obvious choice for a righty pocket. Bazardo has a sneaky opportunity to take this category though because he’s a heavy favorite to pitch a lot of 10th innings.
• Isabelle: Relievers kill me. But I’m into Ferrer, if for nothing else than he represented a final end to the HF discourse.
• Nicky V: I see Ferrer as the most consistent of these options moving forward, with Gabe right behind him. Plus, he’s likely to pitch a lot of 8th innings. 
• Eric: There’s one guy I trust when the game is on the line or there’s a huge rush at Waffle House and that guy is Gabe Speier.

More MLB PAs, Emerson or Young: Young (16)

Emerson (1) (Eric)
Crowd: Young (86.7%)

• Kate: Easy pickings when you see how Young has turned it on later this spring. Yadda yadda spring doesn’t matter but the improvements Young made over the off-season absolutely do. His defense is much better and he’s been hitting the tar out of the baseball consistently. My enemies-to-lover-of-Cole-Young arc surprises even me but I’d make some bold predictions about him if anything about Cole Young could possibly engender anything “bold.”
• Ryan: I think Young is the next Big Deal. 

Cal Raleigh HR: Median – 45

High – 56 (Evan), Low – 37 (Matthew)
Crowd: Median – 45

• Isabelle: He’ll have a 2021 Salvy-style year that will still be exceptionally good for a catcher, it will just pale in comparison to last year’s insanity. (41)
• Nicky V: I said 43, but in hindsight I might go more like 38-40. There’s a reason only seven catchers have ever done 40. Cal will consistently go for 35-45 in the next few years, but thinking we’ll see over that regularly is unlikely given the demands of the position.
• Ryan: I think he’s going to draw a lot of walks this year and still be very good.  (38)

Josh Naylor SB: Median – 20

High – 40 (Eric), Low – 9 (Jake)
Crowd: Median – 23

• Isabelle: Powered by Dad Strength and the security of a long-term contract, Naylz is bagging 20+ easy (20)
• Zach: See now you’ve got me rooting against him just because of my hatred for Dad Strength as a cultural concept. (22)
• Eric: Dad Strength is a myth perpetuated by Big Baby to further scam you into having kids. I’m in the worst shape of my life. Naylor, however, is going to have a generational season for a first baseman in 2026.
• Ryan: The word is out. (12)
• Ezra: Josh Naylor 20-20 season? Book it. 

Julio HR-SB: Median – 38-38

High – 50-50 (Ryan), Low – 29-34 (Matthew)
Crowd: Median – 38-33

• Zach: For years, I’ve been picking 44-44, for his jersey number. But this year, I’m ready to let Julio just be who he is without expecting another gear. This time five years ago, I was hoping for A-Rod, but it’s hard to be disappointed when what I got was Jose Ramírez.
• Ryan: This might seem bold, but after Opening Day he’ll be on pace for 324 of each, so really this is kind of disappointing. 

Emerson Hancock Games Started: Median – 10

High – 24 (Ryan), Low – 4 (Nick Tucker)
Crowd: Median – 9

• Isabelle: Part of my reasoning for being low-ish on Hancock starting games this year is that I think there will be other arms to potentially spell inevitable injury stints (“Hey boo,” she coos in Dane Dunning’s general direction) (7)
• Eric: I forgot about Dane Dunning! (10)
• Ryan: I’m encouraged by the tick up in velocity we saw at the end of last season and the impressive whiff totals this Spring. Yeah we’ve seen it before in flashes, but also yeah we’ve seen it before in flashes. That’s not to say I think Hancock will eclipse even 1.5 WAR or anything, but I think he’ll prove serviceable during a regrettably long Miller absence.  (12)

M’s #1 Prospect at the end of the season: Sloan (15)

Anderson, Montes
Crowd: Sloan (44.0%)

• Zach: I’m on this hype train with zero brakes. I think when the season ends, Sloan will not just be the Mariners’ #1 prospect, but the consensus best pitching prospect in baseball. That fastball is bananas and it’s not even his best pitch.
• Nicky V: Sloan will be a top-10 prospect in baseball this time next year. 
• Kate: If you haven’t yet, go watch the Spring Breakout game and watch Sloan’s performance. He absolutely stifled the best farm system in baseball.
• John: I don’t disagree with any of this, I just also think Sloan logistically is the likeliest to remain prospect-eligible compared to Emerson, Arroyo, and even Anderson and Montes.

M’s Biggest Prospect Riser: Stevenson (5)

Dickerson (3), Sloan (3), McGraw (2), Becker, Celesten, Peters, Rijo
Crowd: Arroyo (18.4%)

• Anders: Fascinated by the #1 crowd answer not even appearing on the staff board. Perhaps we as a staff went too “deep cut” here. I think Arroyo is going to pop off this year. (Dickerson)
• Isabelle: ^re Arroyo, I think at this point it’s hard for staff, who have been exposed for many years now to John Trupin’s unrelenting Arroyo Hype Train, to envision Arroyo ascending much beyond the heights he’s already soared to. I saw Stevenson by happy accident in a college game in North Carolina last year and loved everything about the way he played, and he’s only gotten better since the draft. (Stevenson)
• Nicky V: I think defining the biggest riser is kind of difficult. Is someone who goes from 30th to 15th a bigger riser than someone who goes from 10th to 3rd? Obviously not, right? Regardless, my lone vote for Juan Rijo is based on the Mariners’ keen eye for talent in the international market and a highly-projectable profile. Get him stateside, and I think we see him up in the upper echelon, maybe top 8 or so. 
• Kate: I agree, Isabelle, I think John has been Arroyo-pilling us for so long that we as a staff don’t even register him as a riser, rather just as someone finally getting his due regard. I’m surprised by only three votes for Sloan but I guess three to one doesn’t seem like a big jump, like Nicky V pointed out. I think it’s a significant difference, though; being #1 in the Mariners system to being the best pitching prospect in baseball is a pretty steep rise, and I think that’s where he will end up. (Dickerson)
• John: I have successfully propaganda’d Arroyo and I am resting on my laurels. I’m regretting not pushing Farmelo here, but feel good with Stevenson.

M’s Biggest Prospect Faller: Montes (7)

Celesten (6), Anderson (2), Farmelo, Sloan
Crowd: Montes (33.1%)

• Isabelle: I’m so sorry but I do not believe in Celesten at this stage in his development. I have no compelling reasons or evidence and, in all likelihood may be wrong, but that’s my feel.
• Nicky V: Everyone who says Montes is dead to me. LEAVE HIM ALONE
• Kate: I am baffled by the hit Laz’s prospect stock took over the off-season when he was literally not playing baseball. I will say I don’t think he had a good spring because he’s focused on trying to prove he’s a well-rounded ballplayer and trying to cut down the strikeouts, so I’m hoping he gets back to his game soon. Also, who picked Sloan? See me in my office. (Celesten)
• Zach: My main opinion about all three of the M’s Prospect categories is that John should not be allowed to make picks in categories in which he has a hand in the outcome. Someone get the Commissioner on the phone! (Montes)
• John: What’re you gonna do, ZAM, sue me? (Montes)

Number of Mariners All-Stars: Median – 5

High – 6 (Ryan), Low – 3 (Eric and Kate)
Crowd: Median – 4

• Eric: Cal should skip the derby, Naylor wins ASG MVP, and Woo pitches a clean inning.
• Ryan: Julio, Cal, Canzone, Young, Gilbert and Muñoz? I hope that’s consistent with my other picks.

Bold Predictions

Some Mariners Bold Predictions From the LL Staff:

Michael Arroyo, starting RF by June 1 – Ders
Michael Arroyo has more PAs than Emerson, and is more productive – Nick V
Dom Canzone gets MVP votes – Ryan
Cooper Criswell accrues more WAR than any other reliever – Kate

• Nicky V: I’m happy to have this tied to Ders’ prediction, though I think it’s more likely that RF ends up as a Refsnyder and Arroyo platoon until Arroyo really takes over in August/September. I think Arroyo pops off and earns himself a neat 1.5-2 WAR, while I think Emerson gets played slower than folks might expect. Early cup of coffee and then called up back in September or so. 
• Ryan: I buy the massive leap in ability at the plate, I’m not as low on his defense as many, and they vote for like 20 guys each year. 
• I cheated because I think Criswell will earn all that in bulk with spot starts. If I was really being bold I’d say Yosver Zulueta is the first arm from Tacoma brought up.

Some Mariners Bold Predictions From the Crowd:

Dominic Canzone leads the team in home runs
Luke Raley bounces back with >4 fWAR season
Ryan Bliss starting 2B in the playoffs
Randy Arozarena is traded at the deadline
Underperformance, Jerry fired at end of season
Naylor and Julio hit for the cycle in the same month
Julio goes 40-40, wins MVP, underperforms in World Series, sucks

• Nicky V: Ya’ll are smoking something good. Or bad, depending on the prediction. But ya’ll smoking.
• Kate: I wasn’t aware “bold predictions” were supposed to leave you bleeding from the eyeballs but okay. I like the Luke Raley one and support it.
• Ryan: If I didn’t think Cole Young were going to run away with the forever job, I’d be in on the Bliss pick. Canzone I could see as well. 
• Ezra: I want my fellow Blissciples to know I see you, and I stand with you. 
• Nick T: Luke Raley with a 4 fWAR season lines up surprisingly well with my own prediction. That’s  soon-to-be ALCS MVP Luke Raley to you, dear reader.

Some MLB Bold Predictions From the LL Staff:

A’s finish second in AL West – Max
Tarik Skubal is traded at the deadline – Kate
White Sox finish over .500 – Connor
Twins lose 100+; Rockies win 70+ – Isabelle
A reporter finds indisputable evidence that MLB games are rigged due to the influence of legal online gambling, Manfred resigns in disgrace – Eric
Rangers lose 110 games, deGrom retires midseason, Seager traded to Pirates – Ryan

• Connor: I certainly don’t expect the White Sox to seriously contend, but it’s not hard to look at their shrewd offseason and intriguing young position player core headlined by Colson Montgomery – who bashed 21 homers in just 284 plate appearances in his debut season last year – and visualize a scrappy, 75-80 win team that can easily steal a series from a better team if their opponent isn’t careful. Add in a bit of outperforming their run differential, and things could be looking sunny on the South Side.
• Isabelle: I think we are wildly underrating how bad the Minnesota Twins are going to be. I am also cautiously, lightly optimistic about the Rockies crawling out from the Cave of Total Catastrophe – especially if they can get a full season out of Ezequiel Tovar, who didn’t get the WBC MVP votes but was a major catalyst in Team Venezuela’s victory.
• Kate: This wasn’t my prediction, but I had an opportunity to hang out with the awesome Sam Bradfield from Purple Row at Spring Training and she is very enthused about the new Rockies manager Warren Schaeffer. The bar is subterranean in Colorado but I do think things will start to change there for the better.
• Ryan: A man can dream.
  

Some MLB Bold Predictions From the Crowd:

Rays win 90 games and miss the playoffs
A’s make the playoffs
Astros finish last in the AL West
Naylor and Caballero tie for most stolen bases
Trout is Top 10 in MVP voting
Every division has exactly one wild card team

• Kate: Who put in the Astros one? I admire your bravery for voicing a thing I’m scared to say aloud lest I be struck down for hubris by the baseball gods and I would like to buy you a taco.
• John: The A’s elbowing the 90-win Rays out of the playoffs would make me cackle. And also rhyme with 2001. Oh boy.

For months, college basketball fans have been bombarded with the notion that Duke phenom Cameron Boozer is his sport’s ultimate winner, that he has captured every championship that he has ever contested. 

Turns out that’s only 99.9% right.

Yes, Boozer led a private, all-boys Miami high school to four consecutive state titles in Florida’s top division. Yes, he also captured three straight Nike EYBL championships as the centerpiece of his AAU team and a pair of gold medals while starring for USA Basketball. Yes, he has made winning at the college level look easy too, carrying Duke to a sweep of the ACC regular season and tournament titles and the No. 1 overall seed in this year’s NCAA tournament.

But there’s one piece of hardware that the most decorated player in this year’s freshman class is missing, one empty spot in Boozer’s overcrowded trophy case. Three years ago, a collection of unheralded players at a Miami public high school dealt Boozer maybe his only meaningful loss, stunning his juggernaut Columbus High team to claim an improbable district championship.

To say that Palmetto High was the underdog entering that 2023 district playoff matchup doesn’t even begin to describe it. The Panthers were facing a Columbus team that was ranked No. 5 in the nation by MaxPreps and that had only dropped games against out-of-state juggernauts that season. 

Boozer by then had cemented himself as the nation’s top-ranked high school sophomore. His twin brother Cayden had also emerged as a ballyhooed five-star prospect. Their supporting cast included a handful of Miami-area players who have gone on to play college basketball, including current Princeton starting forward Malik Abdullahi.

The best players on Palmetto’s roster weren’t on the radar of high-profile Division I colleges. Six-foot-3 combo guard Randy Smith now plays for Miami-Dade Community College. Five-foot-11 Matthew Mairena and 5-10 Santiago Henriquez have continued their basketball careers at the NAIA level. 

The talent disparity was unmistakable the first two times that Columbus faced Palmetto that season and effortlessly swatted aside the Panthers. On Dec. 14, 2022, Boozer racked up 31 points and 12 rebounds in an 88-48 rout. The rematch wasn’t much closer six weeks later as Columbus cruised to an 84-57 blowout.

What gave Palmetto hope that a third meeting might go differently was that the Panthers had been holding something back. For weeks, Palmetto secretly practiced a brand-new offensive scheme specifically designed for Columbus. Panthers coach Alex Ordoqui felt his smaller, quicker team could succeed by spreading the floor, taking advantage of Columbus’ willingness to switch 1-through-5 and using ball screens to hunt certain mismatches.

“We had been working on that offense for more than a month but we didn’t show it in a game knowing that we were probably going to see Columbus again,” Ordoqui said. 

“We just tried to stay away from attacking Cayden and Malik and to attack some of their other defenders. We especially wanted to go at Cam, not because he was a bad defender but to force him to guard and hopefully pick up some fouls. Because, as good as the rest of their team was, if he had to sit, they were human.” 

Rather than risk having Boozer bully Palmetto’s lighter, lankier big men in the paint once again, Ordoqui also overhauled how the Panthers defended the future lottery pick. He assigned the sturdy but undersized Smith to guard Boozer and directed whichever big man was on the floor to camp out in the paint and serve as a second line of defense at the rim. 

“We picked a player or two on Columbus that we didn’t want to guard and said, ‘Hey, if that guy makes threes, we live with that,” Ordoqui said. “Let our center float in the paint. If they make shots, we shake their hand, but we have to try to take away layups and dunks because they’re not going to miss those.”

‘Rage bait’: How Palmetto upset Boozer-led Columbus

Minutes before his team took the floor, Ordoqui pulled aside Smith and Mairena to offer one final instruction. 

“Listen,  I need you guys to take every shot that you guys think is open,” Mairena recalls his coach saying. “Don’t hesitate. That’s the only way we can win this game — shooting a lot of threes and a lot of jumpers.”

Watch even a few minutes of the YouTube video of the game, and you’ll see that Smith and Mairena took their coach’s advice to heart. They combined for 12 3-pointers and for 54 of their team’s 66 points, Smith scorching the nets in the first half to bolster Palmetto’s confidence that an upset was attainable and Mairena catching fire in the fourth quarter and overtime when the Panthers needed him most. 

The game turned late in the third quarter when Boozer picked up his fourth foul with Columbus holding a narrow lead. Referees ruled that he fouled Mairena contesting a pull-up jumper from the left elbow, but even Mareina admits, “I’m going to be honest. I don’t think that was a foul, but they called it and he was so furious.”

An incredulous Boozer threw up both his arms in confusion after watching the replay and then pointed at the video board. He was still seething when he walked by the Palmetto bench after Columbus sent a substitute into the game to replace him. 

The way Mairena remembers it, someone on the Palmetto bench told Boozer to go sit down and think about what he had done. 

“Rage bait,” Mairena says with a chuckle. 

When Boozer responded with a verbal jab of his own right in front of a referee, the entire Palmetto bench leaped to its feet in unison. The referee, who had previously assessed a technical foul on Smith for trash-talking during the first quarter, did the same to Boozer, fouling him out with more than a quarter still to play.

“That’s when we knew this game was ours to take,” Mairena said. 

It wasn’t easy, of course. Even the “human” version of Columbus still could run its offense through the other Boozer twin. Cayden scored the game’s next five points to help Columbus open an eight-point lead entering the fourth quarter. 

The lead didn’t last long. Back-to-back threes from Smith and Mairena early in the fourth quarter forced a quick Columbus timeout. Palmetto only surrendered four points that entire quarter, forcing overtime by harassing Columbus into an airballed 3-pointer on its final possession of regulation.

Overtime was Mairena’s moment. He hit a contested pull-up 3-pointer to give his team the lead with less than a minute to play. Then, after Cayden Boozer tied it at the other end, Mairena used a ball screen to get a favorable matchup, drew a foul attacking off the dribble and drained a pair of free throws to put his team in front again.

When Cayden Boozer misfired on a mid-range pull-up at the other end, that clinched Palmetto’s unlikely 66-64 victory. Palmetto players spilled off the bench in celebration as the Boozers and their Columbus teammates walked off the floor in disbelief.

“That’s probably the best memory I have in my basketball career,” Mairena said.

Palmetto’s relentless effort on defense is what stands out most to Ordoqui.

“Columbus usually dunked two or three times a quarter,” Ordoqui said. “They didn’t get a single dunk that night.” 

‘That kid’s an absolute winner. He just doesn’t lose.’

For Ordoqui, the only bittersweet aspect of the victory is that Palmetto didn’t handle success as well as he would have liked. The Panthers hoped to earn a fourth crack at the Boozers in the state tournament, but they lost to Deerfield Beach in the regional semifinals and Columbus went on to hang a state title banner. 

As if competing against Columbus wasn’t already hard enough, the challenge became even tougher the next two years. Jase and Jaxon Richardson transferred from out of state to play alongside the Boozers. So did Cello Jackson. Columbus essentially became a high-school all-star team. 

Watching Boozer pile up win after win at the high school and college level has only made those at Palmetto more proud of that 2023 district title game upset. Palmetto is the only Miami-area high school that beat Columbus during Boozer’s four years there. Hanging inside Columbus’ gym are four state title and regional title banners from that time period but only three district title ones. 

“That’s what makes it so meaningful for us,” Mairena said. “Who else beat him? That kid’s an absolute winner. He just doesn’t lose.”

No one is faring much better against Boozer at the college level so far. The soon-to-be-crowned national player of the year has put up a more impressive statistical freshman season than even Cooper Flagg, leading Duke to a 34-2 record entering the Blue Devils’ Sweet 16 showdown with Big East champion St. John’s. 

While Mairena is playing on a far smaller stage at the NAIA level, he can always say that he got the better of the Boozers for one night. Friends still jokingly refer to Mairena as “The Columbus Killer.” He estimates he has rewatched that game “at least 10 times.” 

While home for spring break this week, Mairena went to the movies and ran into a high school classmate who he hadn’t seen in a while.

After exchanging hellos, Mairena’s former classmate told him that he still watches video of Palmetto’s victory over Columbus. 

“Are people still talking about that?” Mairena asked. 

Responded his friend, “Bro, you don’t even know.” 

Bosnia-Herzegovina manager Sergei Barbarez has refused to apologise to Brondby's Welsh boss Steve Cooper for his controversial comments in the lead-up to Thursday's World Cup play-off in Cardiff.

Barbarez had accused Cooper of dropping Bosnia midfielder Benjamin Tahirovic from the Danish side because of this week's qualifier against Wales, something Brondby officials denied.

Tahirovic is understood to have since contacted Cooper to apologise about the matter.

Asked if he would follow suit, Barbarez said: "I don't think I should apologise for anything."

Instead, the former Bosnia-Herzegovina striker hinted he had deliberately created headlines to deflect attention away from the 23-year-old former Roma and Ajax player.

"The only important thing for me is that I trust my players, and the idea of all this was to create a puzzle for you so you can think about all these things," said Barbarez.

"I had the idea to protect the player. That's where all this talking was from.

"I've known Benjamin for the last two years, and I know what a good player he is and how he can be.

"So I think we should concentrate on tomorrow's match, which is the most important thing for both teams."

• Cooper gets apology in Wales v Bosnia dropping row
• Who would you pick for Wales' play-off v Bosnia-Herzegovina?
• 'Best defeat' in Bosnia and the Wales hero you've never heard of

Bellamy laughed off the surreal subplot earlier on Wednesday, adding he had not spoken to Cooper since the former Swansea City, Nottingham Forest and Leicester City boss was appointed by Brondby in September 2025.

Brondby's communications director Soren Hanghoj rejected Barbarez's claim and said the player's omission was a "club decision", adding: "And there are not that many Wales fans in Brondby after all."

There will, though, be a sizeable contingent of Bosnian fans who make the trip to the Cardiff City Stadium with their side needing to beat Wales to remain on track to reach their first World Cup since 2014.

The winners in south Wales on Thursday are guaranteed a home final against the winners of Italy or Northern Ireland on Tuesday, 31 March.

Ranked 71st in the world, the Bosnians were edged out of automatic qualification by Austria when they conceded late in a final group game decider in Vienna.

"We cannot compare these two games, against Wales and Austria," said Barbarez.

"We took some conclusion from the Austria game and we have spoken about it for three days about the experience we have taken from it.

"We have a plan and every eventuality is covered, including penalties and extra time. We are optimistic. These are the games you play football for."

Forty-year-old former Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko is among the group of players who have travelled to Cardiff, though he is not guaranteed to start.

His Schalke team-mate Nikola Katic, formerly of Rangers and Plymouth Argyle, said: "The atmosphere in these kind of matches here is always brilliant and we will give our best.

"This is a serious team we are playing against, but we will play our own game and we are prepared for every eventuality.

"We have not had much success as a nation in the play-offs before, but that is not important for us; it is new for a lot of our players and our team is much stronger than previous sides."

As expected, Jake Bates is officially back with the Detroit Lions on a one-year deal for the 2026 season.

Bates, a former undrafted free agent who received an opportunity with the Lions due to his success with the UFL’s Michigan Panthers, entered the offseason as an exclusive-rights free agent (ERFA), and the Lions tendered him. That means Bates was offered a one-year deal at the league’s minimum salary, and he was unable to negotiate with any other teams because of it.

ERFAs who are tendered can either sign the one-year offer or, in rare cases, sit out for the upcoming season. Bates put pen to paper on the deal, putting him in line to be Detroit’s kicker for the third consecutive season.

Bates has made 53 of his 63 field-goal attempts over the last two seasons, and he’s 43-for-46 on tries from within 50 yards. He’s connected on 118 of his 123 extra points.

rsilva@gannett.com

rich_silva18

This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Jake Bates officially back with Detroit Lions on one-year deal

ATLANTA (AP) — Arthur Blank has added Mauricio Culebro as president of soccer for the MLS Atlanta United team and Blank's NWSL team which will debut in 2028.

Culebro has served as president of Tigres UANL, overseeing sporting and business operations for the men's and women's programs in Mexico for the past five years. He also has served as chief operating officer of the Mexican Football Operation.

In his new role with the Blank Family of Businesses, Culebro will report to AMBSE CEO Rich McKay.

“This is an exciting day as we welcome Mauricio to Atlanta and our family of businesses,” Blank said in a statement released by AMBSE. “As we progressed through the search process, Mauricio’s impressive experience and clear vision to elevate our clubs made him an outstanding fit to lead Atlanta United and NWSL Atlanta 2028.”

Blank acknowledged Culebro will be new to MLS and the NWSL, but added “Mauricio is not new to building and operating successful global soccer clubs, and I am fully confident in his ability to help return Atlanta United to the level our fans deserve, while leading the launch of our NWSL club.”

In his role with the Mexican Football Federation, Culebro led Mexico’s planning for multiple host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“It is an honor to join AMBSE’s highly successful leadership team and become part of an organization with such a strong culture and foundation already in place,” Culebro said. “I am excited to put my experience, passion and commitment at the service of Atlanta United and NWSL Atlanta 2028, working alongside a great team to build long-term projects our fans can feel proud of — teams that truly represent the passion, energy and ambition of this city.”

Atlanta United chief soccer officer and sporting director Chris Henderson, senior vice president of strategy Dimitrios Efstathiou and senior vice president, chief business officer Sarah Kate Noftsinger will remain in their roles and report to Culebro.

___

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

World Cup winner Gianluigi Buffon says play-off semi-final opponents Northern Ireland have been the "only focus" for Italy, and not the wider prize of a spot at the finals this summer.

Italy have not qualified for a World Cup since 2014 after play-off defeats by Sweden and Bosnia-Herzegovina, and they missed out on automatic qualification for the 2026 tournament after finishing second behind group winners Norway.

Gennaro Gattuso's side could become the first World Cup winners to miss out on three tournaments in a row, but if they can progress against Northern Ireland and then beat either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina, they will be rewarded with a spot in Group B with co-hosts Canada, Switzerland and Qatar.

Buffon, who is Italy's technical delegate, said it was "an important moment" and the full focus had to be on Thursday's semi-final in Bergamo.

"We shouldn't have any doubt, our focus is only on Northern Ireland and the semi-final," Buffon told BBC Sport.

"Then, if we're happy, we'll think about the final against Wales or Bosnia.

"But for the last four months, our only focus has been on Northern Ireland, because that's the way it is.

"Northern Ireland are the first obstacle, and they are a team that deserves our respect."

Buffon, who played a key role in appointing World Cup-winning team-mate Gattuso in June, said Italy's situation was a "situation of stress that has accumulated over the years".

But he felt the team spirit that Gattuso brought to the job gives Italy the "right confidence to finally get to a World Cup".

The game will be played at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo, which has a capacity of 25,000, instead of the larger San Siro or Stadio Olimpico.

Italian journalist Daniele Verri had said he felt there was some superstition at play as Gattuso's first game as manager was a 5-0 win over Estonia at the New Balance Arena, and Italy have not lost in any of their five matches in Bergamo across the span of 62 years.

Buffon said that the home of Atalanta was the "best seat" for the game, and the positivity around the venue made it the logical choice to play Italy's biggest match in four years.

"When the coach played his first game we had a great win, and that evening we remember it was a great atmosphere and there was great support.

"The first half ended 0–0, but the people understood the effort that the team was giving and they supported us.

"This is something, a detail, that is in the minds of the staff and in the minds of the players, so it is very important."

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Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill has said that Thursday's World Cup play-off in Italy is "a big opportunity and it's important we don't waste it".

With 57 places in the world rankings between the sides, Italy will be favourites to win the semi-final in Bergamo, but the four-time winners have not qualified for a World Cup since 2014.

The winner on Thursday will then travel to either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina for a shot at joining Canada, Switzerland and Qatar in Group B at the finals.

If Northern Ireland can qualify, it would be a first World Cup appearance in 40 years.

"The important thing for us is to play the game and not think about what's at stake," O'Neill said in his pre-match press conference on Wednesday evening.

"The expectation clearly lies with the home nation and the big nation, which is Italy.

"We have to not be intimidated by the reputation of the players that they have, and I don't think we will be.

"We have a lot of young players who are going on an upward trajectory in their careers, and tomorrow night is just another step."

• NI must take 'full advantage' of play-off - Magennis
• Northern Ireland deserve Italy's respect - Buffon
• 'We can match anyone at our best' - Galbraith

In a squad update, O'Neill said he was "optimistic" that midfielder Ali McCann would be fit for the game after the midfielder missed Preston's final match before the international window with an ankle injury.

O'Neill added that his young squad, the majority of which will be playing the biggest games of their careers against Gennaro Gattuso's side, will have "no fear", and said quotes from the Italian media have helped him get that message across.

"It is important that we are aware of emotional side of the game for the opponent as well.

"We've discussed that with the players and we've thankfully been able to lift some quotes from your own [Italian] media that we've been able to use to demonstrate the pressure that the players are under, so thank you for that.

"But, at the end of the day, that's a little bit of a sideshow. The game will be played over 90 minutes and possibly longer.

"How they deal with all that will be a big factor in the game and hopefully we can make the game very difficult."

'Tonali set to be fit for Italy'

Key midfielder Sando Tonali is expected to be fit for Italy despite missing Newcastle United's derby loss by Sunderland on Sunday.

Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni is still a doubt for the game but he played a small role in training, but Gattuso says striker Gianluca Scamacca "is a little further behind".

In his press conference, World Cup winner Gattuso brought up Northern Ireland's style of play and said Italy will have to adapt to a "direct approach" from O'Neill's side.

In response, O'Neill said "we don't consider any of that" when it came to setting his team up.

"They really believe a great deal in what they're doing, with the second balls and they like to play direct, vertical football," Gattuso said.

"They are certainly a team that when they get players into the box, both with crosses and from dead ball situations, they're incredible."

Gattuso went on to acknowledge the running power and energy in Northern Ireland's team but said being direct was "their main skill set" and it is "where they will cause us the most problems".

"I haven't seen a team that's necessarily going to be keeping the ball and dragging you out of position in the middle of the park.

"They play very direct and everything that they do, they do it in an impressive fashion."

On Monday evening, I sat in my office with two screens, one showing Spurs-Heat and the other showing Pistons-Lakers. As the postseason nears, I try to pay closer attention to the inner workings of these “high-profile” matchups, viewing them from a playoff lens. 

Is Team X truly hitting their stride? Can Team Y adjust to an opponent’s adjustment in the second half? How does Team Z fare against a shapeshifting zone? 

What I took away from those two games not only reinforced why both Detroit and San Antonio are among the best teams in the NBA this season, but why their coaching has separated them from the rest of the pack — and why crowning just one as Coach of the Year is cruel. 

Draft your Yahoo Fantasy Baseball team for the 2026 MLB Season

The Pistons, who were without Cade Cunningham (and will be for some time as he recovers from a collapsed lung), held the Lakers to 23 points in the fourth quarter, including 0-for-5 from 3 and seven turnovers to boot. Daniss Jenkins (who went undrafted, by the way) continued to excel functioning as a primary initiator, leading the way with 30 points on an efficient 11-for-18 shooting to go along with eight assists and four rebounds.

Gregory Shamus via Getty Images

Detroit’s defense-by-committee limited Luka Dončić to 32 points on 29 shots, and its two most important possessions had Kevin Huerter and Jalen Duren tasked with stopping the Slovenian and succeeded, a reminder of the trust that head coach J.B. Bickerstaff has in his entire group. (The Lakers were also one of the hottest teams in the league, having won 12 of their past 13 games. So there’s that.)

A little over 1,000 miles away, the Spurs were able to turn one of their biggest weaknesses — functioning against a zone defense (fourth-worst points per possession) — into a strength against the Heat, the heaviest zone usage team in the NBA (978 possessions, per Synergy tracking data). They registered a monstrous 1.875 points per chance on spot-ups against Miami’s zone, and 1.333 points on cuts, per Synergy tracking data.

San Antonio stretched an eight-point lead, from the 8-minute mark of the second quarter, to a whopping 30-point lead by the midway mark of the third quarter. Dylan Harper and Keldon Johnson both finished with 21 points apiece off the bench, Bam “Mr. 83” Adebayo struggled courtesy of an aggressive Spurs defense (18 points on 17 shots) and 136 points were dropped on the NBA’s No. 7 defense. 

In both instances, coaching was at the epicenter. There are various storylines you could pluck from either team. For the Pistons: the improvement of Duren, the development of Jenkins, and the consistency of Cunningham. For the Spurs: Stephon Castle’s rapid rise, Johnson’s malleability, and Harper’s reliability. The list goes on and on. 

You could also point to the success both teams have had without their best players. Detroit is 8-2 without Cunningham this season and San Antonio is 10-5 without Victor Wembanyama. 

Again, coaching. 

So how do you determine who should win Coach of the Year? 

This is where it gets tricky. Late March is typically when awards discourse heats up around the league. Look no further than Wembanyama himself making his case for why he should win MVP over the incumbent Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The sheer fact that Wemby is passionate enough about regular-season accolades is refreshing, but hearing him elaborate on his reasoning drove home the realization that criteria — both for voting and non-voting individuals — is fluid, and the narrative can change from year-to-year. 

This season has already yielded the need for rule changes to address tanking, gambling and overall integrity. But why stop there? Let’s add another tweak to the awards, and add an All-Coaching team.

We already have the MVP award, but that is supported by All-NBA teams. The Defensive Player of the Year is crowned and there are two All-Defensive groups. Even the Rookie of the Year has two All-Rookie teams. So why not expand the award based on the individuals tasked with leading these great players and teams on a nightly basis? 

As with any award selection, my methodology of differentiating who and who doesn’t belong on my All-Coaching team is down to the following criteria: 

• Season expectations (a combination of previous season’s record and Vegas odds)

• Talent level and development 

• Player availability and maneuvering in the presence of injuries

• Current success

These would be my five selections for the inaugural All-Coaching team:

J.B. Bickerstaff, Detroit Pistons

• Vegas preseason win projection: 46.5

• Current record: 52-19 (10th in offense, 2nd in defense)

Who needs to shoot a bunch of 3s when you lead the league in turnover rate? Bickerstaff has done perhaps the most remarkable coaching job in the league this season. The Pistons are playing with house money, being considerably ahead of schedule, spearheaded by Cunningham’s MVP-esque campaign, the NBA’s No. 2 defense and an abundance of youth. Detroit, which won 44 games last season, isn’t supposed to be here right now. Period. 

Mitch Johnson, San Antonio Spurs

• Vegas preseason win projection: 44.5

• Current record: 54-18 (4th in offense, 3rd in defense)

Coming off of Wembanyama’s second season, one would have assumed the Spurs would at least challenge for a play-in spot. Making it to the NBA Cup final, going band for band with the reigning champs, having beaten them four out of five times this year already, wasn’t on anyone’s bingo card. The Spurs are 20-2 over their last 22 games. Johnson has built this team in his image. He has gotten complete buy-in from the veterans and is challenging the status quo. Oh, and Wemby looks like the best player in basketball right now and still has other levels to get to. 

Joe Mazzulla, Boston Celtics

• Vegas preseason win projection: 41.5

• Current record: 47-24 (2nd in offense, 4th in defense)

2025-26 was slated to be a mulligan for Boston, with Jayson Tatum gone for the majority of the season rehabbing a torn Achilles, and Celtics ownership stripping the roster down to its barebones to avoid heavy tax penalties. Tell that to Mazulla, who shoehorned Jaylen Brown into an uber-efficient, hybrid scorer/playmaker/primary defender role, Neemias Queta as an athletic anchor, and Derrick White as apparently a top-5 player with analytical ethical ball. 

Mark Daigneault, Oklahoma City Thunder

• Vegas preseason win projection: 62.5

• Current record: 57-15 (6th in offense, 1st in defense)

When Vegas made its projections for a Thunder team fresh off winning a title, continuity was assumed. Explain that to a Thunder team that has Cason Wallace and Isaiah Joe as its two most-played guys. Jalen Williams has appeared in just 27 games this season, Isaiah Hartenstein has played in 40 — which ranks 15th and 11th on the roster, respectively. Daigneault’s Finals-winning lineup has played 52 minutes across six games! How he’s responded to his lack of player availability is by extracting an All-Defensive season out of Wallace, developing Jaylin Williams into a reliable floor spacer, creating a solid secondary creator in Ajay Mitchell, and having all roads lead back to SGA, who has had just about as fine of a potential repeat season as any former MVP. 

Charles Lee, Charlotte Hornets

• Vegas preseason win projection: 27.5

• Current record: 38-34 (5th in offense, 13th in defense)

The Hornets were destined for another season rooted in mediocrity, but Lee sold his vision on making Charlotte an offensive juggernaut and viable defensive unit. Since Jan. 1, the Hornets lead the league in point differential, have won 27 of 39 games and sport the No. 1 offense and No. 5 defense in that span, per Cleaning the Glass. Expand that to all season and the Hornets are just outside the top-five in net rating.

Lee has convinced the likes of LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges and Brandon Miller to accept lesser roles within the overall structure for the betterment of the group, and has rookie Kon Knueppel as a real threat to snatch Rookie of the Year from Cooper Flagg. How many folks could predict that the Ball-Bridges-Miller-Knueppel-Moussa Diabate lineup would score 136.7 points per 100 possessions, with a +28.4 in differential? I’ll hang up and listen. 

The MLB season is right around the corner, and ESPN has revealed their 2026 MLB season preview with rankings and every team’s playoffs odds.

It is not surprising that they have the Los Angeles Dodgers as the best team to start the season but where they have the Pittsburgh Pirates might disappoint some fans. 

ESPN has ranked the Pirates at 22 to start the season. Pittsburgh is projected to go 81-81 on the season. They are giving a 32% chance to make the playoffs but only have 1.0% to make it to the World series. 

It’s not too surprising that the Bucs are just 22nd because of how weak the offense was last year, but I think additions like Marcell Ozuna, Brandon Lowe, and Ryan O’Hearn should seriously improve the bats.

Another question mark to this team is how the pitchers outside of Paul Skenes are going to do. Skenes is favored to win his second straight NL CY Young award, but he is going to need help this year. If the former Cy young winner is the only pitcher throwing at a high level, then it will be a long season for the Pirates.

The Buccos are going to need Bubba Chandler and Mitch Keller to pitch really well this season so the pressure isn’t solely on Skenes.

The Cincinnati Reds are ranked at 18, but only projected to win 78 games this season. The Reds last year finished third in the National Central and snuck into the playoffs. That could be the same path Pittsburgh goes down for this season, winning around 82 games and sneaking into the playoffs which would snap their playoff drought.  

I think where the Pirates are ranked is fair because they still have a lot to prove this season. This is still a young baseball team, but a team that can turn some heads this season, especially if the offense can help out the pitching.  

Was the wrong knee examined in Kylian Mbappé’s case or not? At the French national team’s press conference ahead of the friendly against Brazil, the Real star addressed the reports that emerged yesterday. 

Numerous media outlets had reported that Real Madrid’s doctors examined the wrong knee on Mbappé last December. “The report that they examined the wrong knee is not true,” Mbappé made unequivocally clear.

Instead, he saw himself as partly to blame. “As I already said, I may be indirectly responsible for this situation, because when you don’t communicate, you leave the door open to interpretation. We always had pretty clear communication with Real Madrid — whether in Madrid or in Paris, where I was accompanied by the doctor and the physiotherapist,” the striker made clear. 

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

The Buffalo Bills’ special teams units were steady but unspectacular in 2025, with the unit ranking 15th in DVOA and allowing the 10th-fewest return yards. A look at advanced metrics reinforces conversations in support of Buffalo’s overall success on special teams last season.

As the fifth and final in a series evaluating the Bills’ roster for a potential 2026 Super Bowl run, after evaluating separately the front-seven, the defensive backfield, the running backs and offensive line, and the quarterbacks, tight ends and wide receivers, I’ll apply what I’ve termed the “Lofton Exercise” to categorize the special teams’ players as “game-winners” (elite talents who can single-handedly win multiple games), “win-with players” (reliable contributors who perform well but aren’t consistent difference-makers), or “needs improvement” (inconsistent or underdeveloped).

Below, I’ll incorporate 2025 stats, postseason performances, and advanced metrics like PFF grades, expected points added (EPA), success rates, and others to build my case. The group raised questions about depth and special teams reliability heading into the offseason.

Game-Winners

These players stood out as elite talents capable of dominating matchups and carrying the unit in critical moments. Their performances were crucial for the Bills’ success.

KR Ray Davis

Ray Davis performed exceptionally as a kick returner for the Bills last season, emerging as one of the league’s top return specialists. He finished the 2025 season as the NFL’s leading kick returner by average (30.4 yards per return), amassing a total of 943 yards on 31 kick returns, with the longest return going for a 97-yard touchdown. Davis also recorded six returns of over 40-plus yards and 27 returns of 20-plus yards, earning First-Team All-Pro honors as a kick returner.

Davis transformed into a “special teams star” after having never done return work in college and having only limited attempts as a rookie in 2024. His performance set a new Bills single-season record for kick return average. He was a sure-fire game-winner on special teams.

Win-With Players

This group provided reliable, complementary production without consistent domination. They’re players whose stats and metrics show solid contributions that help the team win, but they don’t carry teams alone.

K Matt Prater (UFA)

Matt Prater, signed midseason after Tyler Bass’ injury, converted 18-of-20 field goals (90.0%, tied-14th in NFL) with a long of 52 yards, and 46-of-49 extra points (93.9%, 31st). His Pro Football Focus (PFF) kicking grade was around 78.4, with strong touchback rates on kickoffs. According to FanSided, Prater ranked 14th in the NFL with a 3.7485 KVA, measuring his value added relative to league expectations based on distance.

In the playoffs, Prater was perfect on field goals and extra points. Prater showed a reliability (90% FG rate) that makes him a win-with specialist, especially so as seen in clutch situations like a 43-yard make vs. the Carolina Panthers. His age and health could be a concern, though.

P Mitch Wishnowsky

Wishnowsky played well as a stabilizer for the Buffalo Bills, signing as a midseason replacement and performing admirably with a 41.9 net punting average (15th/32 Punters). He averaged 46.7 yards per punt (15th), hitting 25 inside-20 (45.5%), and earning a PFF punting grade of 71.2 (16th/32 Punters), with a 58.2% hang time success rate. His hang-time average was 4.44 seconds, with a return percentage of 28.9%. His 69 total yards returned were the fewest allowed among qualifying punters.

Wishnowsky is a win-with veteran — he’s someone who can reliably control field position. His play last season no doubt help Wishnowsky earn his new deal with Buffalo for 2026.

LS Reid Ferguson

As the team’s longest-tenured player, Reid Ferguson remained a consistent presence on the field, participating in every game. He provided reliable snapping all season long, with no major mishandles noted. His niche role limits stats, but consistency makes him a win-with long snapper.

S/Specialist Sam Franklin Jr.

Sam Franklin Jr. served as a key special teams asset for Buffalo, playing in all 17 games. He primarily played on special teams, logging 329 special teams snaps (roughly 75% of the team total). Franklin recorded 13 total tackles (10 solo), anchoring the Bills’ special teams coverage unit. He signed a three-year extension this offseason, which show how much One Bills Drive values his production.

Needs Improvement

These players lacked consistency, often due to limited snaps, inexperience, or simply not being talented enough, even if some of them showed potential at some point. At this point in time, each of them requires more development for possible bigger roles.

PR Khalil Shakir

Shakir was a consistent punt returner for the Bills in 2025, avoiding fumbles or muffed punts on his 16 returns, but he failed to generate any big plays, with no touchdowns scored and nine fair catches. His return average of 7.8 placed him in the middle of the pack among qualifying returners.

With Shakir’s important role on offense, and the lack of impact on special teams, he should be considered only as a backup option when reliability is needed. Ideally, the Bills find a true specialist for this role in 2026.

Other Players in this tier:

• K Tyler Bass
• KR/PR Brandon Codrington
• KR/PR Mecole Hardman Jr.

Final Assessment

The core special teams players were rock solid last season and would be welcomed back, in my opinion. It’s to be seen if Tyler Bass will take back the kicker spot after spending all of 2025 on Injured Reserve, or if a competition is brewing. I loved what Prater brought to the table and would love to have him back in 2026, but for now he remains unsigned as a free agent. Wishnowsky, Franklin, and Ferguson will be back, and that’s good news.

Davis will continue to lead the kick-return unit, but the Bills must find a better option to return punts so they can protect Shakir and give a boost to the role in general. Mecole Hardman Jr. should compete there, but more guys are likely to be brought in this offseason.

Overall, the Bills’ roster in 2025 had a group of five true Game-Winners (Allen, Cook, Brown, Benford, and Bishop), with two more (Rousseau and Kincaid) questionably making it. With 20 Win-With players (13 on offense, and seven on defense), we can start to see why the offense — which also had the biggest catalyst on the team in Josh Allen — had fewer issues than the defense.

Some of those players have now left the team, but the additions look very promising. I expect to have more players among the Game-Winners and Win-With groups when doing this exercise again, next year.

Catch up on all this and more with the latest edition of Leading the Charge!

Constitution Hill won under the floodlights at Kempton Park to make it two wins from two on the Flat after moving from National Hunt racing.

Having won his first 10 races over the fences, including the 2023 Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, the Nicky Henderson-trained horse switched to the Flat after three falls in the four races.

Following a debut victory in the Road to Cheltenham Novice Stakes at Southwell last month, the nine-year-old roared to success again after starting out as the 1-7 favourite.

In fifth place for much of the race, jockey Ryan Moore took him to the front to finish clear of Classical Allusion, with Keep It Cool third.

Moore said: "He's a gentleman and I think the horse is enjoying his runs on the Flat. He moves really well and I think there will be plenty more improvement to come. He went to the line with his ears pricked.

"We don't know what his level is yet, he will tell us. We will know more on his next one. I think he's very comfortable at 12 [furlongs]."

"He's not slow, on a sharp track like this he seems to handle it well," added Henderson. "It's a different sport to be honest with you, compared to two miles at Cheltenham."

• 'Extraordinary' Constitution Hill to pursue career on Flat
• Latest horse racing results

The Boston Red Sox released two prospects, outfielder Juan Chacon and infielder Yohander Linarez, according to Hunter Noll of Beyond the Monster on X.

Both Chacon, 23, and Linarez, 21, were on minor league contracts.

MORE: Red Sox cut 23-year-old with 2.53 ERA three days before Opening Day

The more surprising name of the two is Chacon, Boston’s top international amateur signee during the 2019-20 signing period, and a frequent interloper in the team’s major league spring training camp the last four seasons.

The Red Sox signed Chacon for $900,000 out of Venezuela in July 2019. Three years later, he was called up to his first Grapefruit League games, and went 1 for 2 with a walk at the ripe age of 19.

In 2023, Chacon stole 20 bases and reached base at a .353 clip for Class-A Salem. However, his power tool never developed despite his tall (6-foot-1), athletic frame. Last year at Double-A Portland, Chacon slugged .298 with no home runs in 51 games.

Linarez was signed out of Venezuela by the Sox in January 2022. He advanced to Class-A Salem in 2025 and slashed .221/.262/.293 in 43 games.

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Florida State is back from its spring break, and they're back to holding spring practice. Key targets are coming in to check out their progress, and one key running back prospect will be in Tallahassee on Thursday.

Three-star recruit Sergarion Gunsby out of Vanguard High School announced on his social media Wednesday morning that he'll be in attendance.

"I will be at FSU tomorrow for spring practice!!!!," Gunsby wrote.

Gunsby's ties to FSU go back about two years. Before his sophomore season in 2024, he was at camp that June. Last season, he took unofficial visits for Florida State's games against East Texas A&M and Kent State. In January, Gunsby was extended an offer.

His offer list consists of around 20 programs, with USF, Tulane, and Southern Miss being some of his suitors. Most of FSU's competition is in the ACC, as Syracuse, Boston College, and Pittsburgh have also offered Gunsby.

As a junior, Gunsby played in eight games. Despite the somewhat limited time on the field, he was productive as he racked up 504 yards on 65 carries (7.8 yards per carry) and scored seven touchdowns.

Gunsby is the No. 1,123 player and the No. 90 running back according to the 247Sports composite rankings. He's also the No. 129 prospect in the state of Florida.

Contact/Follow us @FSUWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida State news, notes and opinions. You can also follow Matthew on X @StarConscience

This article originally appeared on FSU Wire: FSU Football: Sergarion Gunsby to attend Florida State spring practice

There's a dark cloud over the Pittsburgh Steelers' 2026 quarterback room, one that NFL legend James Harrison is attempting to disperse with a little bit of recruiting.

On a recent episode of the Deebo & Joe podcast, Harrison revealed to special guest Ben Roethlisberger that he's been in contact with Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow about possibly jumping ship to the Steelers.

"We've been having conversations. I talked to him on the phone yesterday," Harrison said about Burrow. "We've been talking about him going up there to talk to Mr. Brown, to do whatever he needs to do to get into some black and gold."

Harrison continued his sales pitch for Burrow, adding to his argument that even Roethlisberger said it was a "no-brainer to come over to the black and gold."

As Roethlisberger stated previously in the podcast, the notion that Burrow would ever be traded to the Steelers is hardly one based in reality, a "pipe dream," as the future Hall of Fame quarterback called it.

This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers' James Harrison still recruiting Bengals' Joe Burrow

Gone is Jalen Nailor. Replacing him is…nobody?

So far, the Vikings haven’t done anything to beef up the receiver position. Justin Jefferson remains as the clear-cut WR1 (and most valuable player on the team more broadly). Next up is Jordan Addison, the gifted receiver who needs to say out of trouble off the field. Tai Felton, the soon-to-be sophomore coming off a modest rookie season, will get the first shot at WR3. That is, of course, unless someone else gets added.

The Vikings are Meeting with Ted Hurst

The update arrives courtesy of Ryan Fowler. He writes, “Source: The Minnesota Vikings will host Georgia State WR Ted Hurst for a 30 visit. Standout of Senior Bowl week is a likely Day 2 pick.”

By Day 2, Fowler is pointing to the 2nd and 3rd Round, the picks that go from No. 33 to No. 102. The Vikings are currently sitting on No. 49 (2nd), No. 82 (3rd), and No. 97 (3rd). If Fowler is correct that Hurst gets chosen at some point within the 2nd or 3rd (taking place on Friday, April 24th), then the Vikings are sitting in a nice position to make it happen.

The appeal is easy to see.

His 9.90 RAS Score is elite. Mr. Hurst stands at 6’4″ and weighs 206 pounds. He ran a 4.42 forty, meaning he clocked a faster time than both of Jefferson and Addison. In theory, he could shake loose down the field as the WR1 and WR2 stole attention away from defenders who should have been keeping a roof over the Georgia State alumnus.

That’s the theory, at least.

Consider what Lance Zierlein had to say: “Long-legged, vertical-minded wideout with the speed and ability to stress corners from snap to whistle. Hurst is quick to beat press and hit the accelerator into his route work. He has the hips, feet and balance to run a more robust route tree than what we saw from him in college. He’s an above-average ball-tracker deep and a dangerous catch-and-run option. The hands are average and he needs to become more assertive on 50/50 balls on all three levels. Hurst appears capable of surviving the jump in competition and projects as a ‘Z’ receiver with quality upside.”

The observation that Hurst will need to expand his route tree isn’t super surprising; that’s true of a lot of young fellas, especially the long-and-strong burners who get sent deep with regularity. The Vikings would have the luxury of bringing him along slowly since Jefferson and Addison can do most of the heavylifting in 2026.

Having Keenan McCardell as the receiver coach doesn’t hurt, either.

Combined, Ted Hurst boasted some impressive numbers 2024 and 2025. His 127 catches have translated to 1,965 yards and 15 touchdowns. The 15.5 yards-per-reception average is healthy, a number Minnesota would want to replicate in the pros.

Given his build, Hurst may get tasked with some special teams work to begin his career. Lining up at gunner, for instance, would make sense as an early assignment. Special Teams Coordinator Matt Daniels may therefore have some questions for the receiver in the visit in the Twin Cities.

PFF handed him a healthy 82.0 grade for his work last season, putting Hurst down at 46th among qualifying receivers (a monstrous list with more than 1,000 under consideration). He had 583 snaps out wide — an alignment that makes sense given his build — alongside 80 snaps in the slot and 2 snaps in the backfield.

The same site puts Hurst down as the No. 97 prospect, the exact draft slot that Minnesota owns after the compensatory selections got divvied up. Maybe all the stars will align as the Vikings add the speedster with a towering frame.

The 2026 NFL Draft goes from Thursday, April 23rd until Saturday, April 25th. Minnesota is sitting on nine draft picks.

New Orleans at Detroit — Detroit SportsNet, GCSEN, NBA League Pass, Pelicans+

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive TV listings provided by LiveSportsOnTV.

Oregon at Northwestern — BTN

Seattle at Tampa Bay — ABC

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive TV listings provided by LiveSportsOnTV.

Once again, Clemsonfootball heads into an offseason carrying a familiar label, a program with something to prove in a changing college football world.

A year ago, the conversation around Dabo Swinney’s program sounded very different. Clemson had kept most of its core from a College Football Playoff team and showed a willingness, even if limited, to dip into the transfer portal. It felt like the Tigers had found a way to stay competitive without fully embracing the modern roster-building model.

That optimism didn’t last. A 7-6 finish in 2025 quickly reset the narrative, putting Clemson back under the microscope and raising fresh questions about how the program stacks up in today’s landscape.

According to ESPN’s Andrea Adelson, no team in the country enters the upcoming season with more to answer for.

“We could have put Clemson down as the answer to this question for the past four years, but this time we really mean it,” Adelson said. “There is no sugarcoating the disappointment from 2025, when the Tigers finished 7-6 despite having a veteran team filled with future NFL draft picks. Coach Dabo Swinney went more heavily into the portal this offseason, particularly on defense, and went back to his past to hire Chad Morris as offensive coordinator to try to fix a stagnant offense. But there are major questions across the board with so many veterans gone. Swinney and his players need to show they have the answers.”

That quote sums up where things stand. Clemson is no longer being viewed as a program that just reloads and competes, it’s one that now has to prove it can still operate at a high level in this era.

This offseason, Swinney has made noticeable adjustments. He leaned more into the portal, especially on defense, and brought back Chad Morris to take over the offense in hopes of fixing a unit that stalled far too often last season. Still, those moves come alongside significant roster turnover, leaving plenty of uncertainty.

The numbers back that up. After leading the nation in returning production last year, Clemson now sits at 59th. Offensively, the drop is steep, with just 46% of production returning. Replacing a three-year starter at quarterback in Cade Klubnik, along with both starting tackles and a key weapon like Antonio Williams, won’t be easy.

Clemson baseball blows a 6-run lead as the recent struggles continue

📸 Ken Ruinard / USA Today Network South Carolina, Ken Ruinard / USA Today Network South Carolina / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images https://t.co/rhsOZA1YnUpic.twitter.com/Suqf7qCrgR

— Clemson Wire (@Clemson_Wire) March 25, 2026

Defensively, the outlook is a bit steadier, with 61% of production back, but even that unit is expected to lose more pieces to the NFL in the coming weeks.

All of it adds up to a familiar storyline. Clemson isn’t being written off, but it’s no longer being given the benefit of the doubt either. Heading into 2026, the Tigers aren’t chasing hype, they’re trying to prove they still belong in it.

Contact us @Clemson_Wire on X, and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Clemson Tigers news and notes, plus opinions.

This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Clemson football is a team with the most to prove in 2026 for ESPN

There are moments when words aren't necessary, and Lane Johnson understands that better than most. He's excellent on social media. The Philadelphia Eagles star's emoji game is always on point. Following news that the NFL will not move forward with a proposed ban of the Eagles’ infamous 'Tush Push,' the Eagles star kept his reaction simple and perfectly on brand.

He didn't issue a long statement. He didn't need to. Instead, he turned to social media and delivered a response the way Eagles fans have come to expect: with a well-placed emoji and just enough humor to say everything without actually saying much at all.

It was classic Lane Johnson.

😂 https://t.co/aEMH1huRQ8

— Lane Johnson (@LaneJohnson65) March 25, 2026

For one of the players who has been at the center of the league's most debated short-yardage play, the reaction felt fitting. The 'Tush Push' has drawn criticism, sparked debates, and even led to calls for rule changes. Yet through it all, Philadelphia has continued to execute it at a level few, if any, teams can replicate. Who knows? Maybe all it took was for Josh Allen to run said play in a playoff game for league offices to look the other way. You all can argue about that one among yourselves. Whatever the case, Johnson has been one of the driving forces behind the play's success in Philadelphia.

His response wasn't just a joke. It was a subtle reminder. The Eagles aren't apologizing for what works. They aren't backing away from something they've mastered. If anything, the reaction felt like a quiet acknowledgment that the play, and the dominance behind it (at least until last season), is here to stay.

Fans didn't need an explanation. They understood the message immediately. Sometimes, a few emojis say more than a press conference ever could, and if the league thought the conversation around the 'Tush Push' was going away, Johnson's response made one thing clear. It's not. Not now. Not anytime soon.

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Lane Johnson responds to tush push news from the NFL owners meeting

There is new leadership taking over for the South Florida Bulls men's basketball team this offseason.

On Wednesday afternoon, USF officially announced that Chris Mack, a 15-year coaching veteran, will be taking over as the new head coach in Tampa Bay. Mack spent nine seasons at Xavier, going to the NCAA Tournament in eight of those seasons. He has also spent time with the Louisville Cardinals and, most recently, at College of Charleston.

Mack will step in at USF with big shoes to fill after Bryan Hodgson led the Bulls to an appearance in the NCAA Tournament this year, the program's first since 2012. USF lost to Louisville in a close, 83-79 first-round game in the first round.

Hodgson moved on shortly after to take over as the head coach at Providence.

Welcome to the Bay, @CoachChrisMack!

📝: https://t.co/t7V1twG5ahpic.twitter.com/hUUHRSFnWg

— USF Men's Basketball (@USFMBB) March 25, 2026

"Bulls basketball has incredible momentum, and we've found an outstanding coach and leader to elevate our program to the next level," USF AD Rob Higgins said. "Chris Mack has reached 20 or more wins in 12 of his 15 seasons as a head coach and guided teams to nine NCAA Tournaments, including several Sweet 16s and an Elite Eight. He brings elite experience in roster building through the portal and transforming programs in a short time frame. We couldn't be more excited to welcome Chris and his family to Bulls Nation. With Chris and Kristy (Curry) leading our men's and women's programs, Tampa Bay's Home for Hoops will be rocking and poised for an incredibly bright future."

Contact/Follow@College_Wire on X and@College_Wires on Threads. Like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of college sports news, notes, and opinions. 

This article originally appeared on College Sports Wire: USF Bulls hire Chris Mack as new head coach for men's basketball team

The wrestling world lost Dennis Condrey of the Midnight Express, the legendary tag team of the early 1980s, at age 74 on March 21, and since the news broke, various stars have been remembering the talent following his death. During a recent episode of "Busted Open Radio," Bully Ray questioned why Condrey and the Midnight Express aren't in the WWE Hall of Fame, as he fully believes they should be honored.

"I despise when guys and gals have earned the right to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame and then they're not when they're living, but then the WWE decides to induct them when they're dead. What's the f****** point?"" Bully Ray said. "The Midnight Express, and let's talk about the most famous version of the Midnight Express, which is Condrey and [Bobby] Eaton, along with Jim Cornette. There is no doubt that they should be in the WWE Hall of Fame, and should have been in the WWE Hall of Fame a long time ago just for their contributions to tag team wrestling."

As of this writing, WWE has not announced Condrey and Midnight Express for the 2026 class. Sid Eudy, also known as Sycho Sid, was announced as a posthumous induction to the Hall of Fame, known as the Legacy Class, on March 24.

Condrey established the Midnight Express in 1980 with "Ravishing" Randy Rose and Norvell Austin, and formed a new version of the stable in Mid-South Wrestling alongside Eaton, with Cornette as their manager. Different iterations of the team would work in WCW and Jim Crockett Promotions, in addition to Mid-South, throughout the '80s. Condrey would wrestle on the independent scene through 2011.

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit "Busted Open Radio" and provide a h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.

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Read the original article on Wrestling Inc.

Alistair Overeem was quizzed about the neuro-degenerative disease that looms over every fighter whether in UFC, boxing, or elsewhere. 

Speaking to "Uncrowned's" Tris Dixon, Overeem was asked about cognitive function and CTE. He said he hasn't spoken to any experts about it, though he is going to have discussions with a brain performance center to take tests. It was noted that this would be "in part to help create awareness for the center."

"But am I afraid of my own CTE? No. No. I'm not afraid," he said. "I'll tell you. I think our body has a regenerative capability, if your body is in the right state – and that is what I'm focused on every day."

He said he makes use of ice baths, saunas, dieting, and fasting, as tools to that end. "I believe very strongly that if you're so much immersed in all these intermittent lifestyle hacks, your body is very much imbalanced and your regenerative capacity will just increase dramatically. And yeah, CTE can be healed, avoided. That's what I believe."

At present, there is no strong scientifically-backed evidence to support the idea CTE can be healed. Any and all treatments are geared towards managing symptoms and improving quality of life, rather than reversing damage done. 

Overeem fought 94 times throughout his fighting career, becoming the first fighter to hold World titles in kickboxing and MMA at the same time, and challenging for the UFC Championship on one occasion. 

Read more: What Could Have Been: What If Goldberg Hadn't Concussed Bret Hart In WCW?

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Maada Smith-Njigba began throwing footballs to his younger son at home in Texas before most kids know how to catch. Or ride a bike.

“He’s been there training me, throwing footballs at me, since I was 3 years old,” Jaxon Smith-Njigba said Wednesday.

Dad was inside Seahawks headquarters sitting a short out route to the left and front of his son, Seattle’s All-Pro wide receiver, Super Bowl champion and NFL offensive player of the year for the 2025 season.

The son said he learned from his father “first and foremost, hard work” from all those years hearing Dad leave the family’s house in Rockwell, Texas, before dawn. Maada worked all hours as a firefighter for the Dallas Fire Department.

“Hard work,” Jaxon said. “Seeing him — like, anything that I’ve wanted, I saw him get up early for us to go get that, to have.

“He is the reason I’m here today. Just the leader, and how strong he is physically and mentally, for us to live out our dreams.”

The younger Smith-Njigba’s dreams came true Wednesday. He signed his four-year extension to stay under contract with the Seahawks in his new home city through at least 2031.

Just one month past his 24th birthday — “still so young,” general manager John Schneider said while announcing the re-signing — Smith-Njigba is guaranteed life-changing money. Generational money.

It’s $120 million guaranteed, more than $60 million of it to him in the next 12 months. That’s inside a total contract value of up to $168.6 million for the Seahawks’ first-round draft choice in 2023 out of Ohio State.

It’s the richest contract in Seahawks history. It’s ahead of the four-year, $140 million deal quarterback Russell Wilson signed in April 2019.

Yes, Smith-Njigba can now repay Dad and Mom, Jami, a high school teacher in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, for all they’ve done for him and his 26-year-old brother Canaan. The former outfielder with Major League Baseball’s Pittsburgh Pirates was sitting next to their father watching his Jaxon’s big day at Seahawks headquarters.

“I’ve always had the belief,” Jaxon Smith-Njigba said.

“But, yeah, this proves I’m good — for a long time.”

He and everyone inside the team’s main auditorium full of cheering Seahawks employees laughed.

“It’s a blessing,” Smith-Njigba said.

How it came about

The deal to re-set the market for NFL wide receivers at more than $42 million for Smith-Njigba came months earlier than is the Seahawks’ norm.

In his 17 offseasons as Seattle’s GM, Schneider has typically reached these extensions with foundational players the summer entering the final years of their contracts. That is, at or just after the start of training camp in late July. It’s usually after months of customary back and forth between the team and the star player’s agent on worth relative to other top players at his position around the NFL.

This agreement with Smith-Njigba got done relatively seamlessly. And quickly. It’s been just six weeks since Smith-Njigba was reveling with many of the hundreds of thousands of fans lining the streets of downtown Seattle for the Seahawks’ racous Super Bowl victory parade.

Seahawks, 700k+ fans wild at Super Bowl parade: ‘Crazy! This is beyond belief!’

“We’ve had a great relationship with Jaxon’s agent, Joel Segal (of WIN Sports Group). for a long, long time,” Schneider said.

“We were able to just keep things in house, keep things respectful. And, you know, when you’re on the higher end of these deals, they are actually — I don’t want to say they’re easier, but...we recognize Jax’s talent, his work ethic, the person. ...

“We value people.”

The benefit to the Seahawks of getting Smith-Njigba’s massive contract done now, still four months before training camp, is it sets up the team to do the same, top-of-market extension for Pro Bowl cornerback Devon Witherspoon in the coming months. Schneider and his team have already planned for doing that. At that position it’s likely to cost at least $30 million per season for Seattle’s other first-round pick with Smith-Njigba from that 2023 draft.

Witherspoon was the fifth pick in that draft, a choice Denver traded to Seattle to get...Wilson, in the spring of 2022.

The other benefit for the Seahawks to re-signing Smith-Njigba now is they, and not a rival, set the market at wide receiver. The Los Angeles Rams, whom Seattle beat in the NFC championship game Jan. 25 to reach Super Bowl 60 last month, have All-Pro wide receiver Puka Nacua coming to the end of his contract. Seattle has now set the bar for Nacua’s agents to target to the Rams.

L.A. did the same thing at cornerback to the Seahawks last month when they traded with Kansas City to get All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie, then signed him to an extension that’s worth $31 million per season. That’s the new top mark in the league for cornerbacks that Witherspoon’s agents are targeting in talks with Schneider and the Seahawks.

Smith-Njigba didn’t care about all that. He said he re-signed quickly because to him there was no other choice than Seattle.

“Ever since I got drafted, I just felt the love,” he said.

“It’s an honor to feel that confidence come from your teammates and come from the third floor (where team executives work), and your head coach.”

Mike Macdonald, seated to Smith-Njigba’s immediate right, nodded.

“To get this deal done speaks volumes. Definitely just a little weight off my shoulders,” Smith-Njigba said.

“This is home for me.”

Offensive player of the year.

Super Bowl champion.

All-Pro.

Franchise record for receiving yards (1,793, eighth-most in NFL history) in 2025.

A better season than even Hall of Famer Steve Largent, a Seattle legend Smith-Njibga often gets compared to for his hands, body control and poise, ever had.

What’s next for the 24-year old still just entering his prime? What’s the next level that will fuel him as he earns more than $42 million each year? His answer is already the story for the Seahawks 2026 season that begins in September.

“The only thing better than one Super Bowl,” he said with a grin, “is two.”

Bijan Robinson has been endlessly lauded for his excellence, and that’s all well-deserved. Bijan led the NFL in scrimmage yards by over 150 yards last year, was behind only Christian McCaffrey for receiving yards from a running back, and reeled off some of the most impressive runs of any back in 2025. He’s a special player, and very soon, he’s going to be paid like one.

That was obvious, but ESPN’s Adam Schefter made it clear that the expectation is that Bijan is going to get a lucrative extension this offseason in a recent episode of his podcast. Bijan was mentioned in the same breath as Jahmyr Gibbs and De’Von Achane as backs set to get paid; you can see the discussion starting at about 8:30 in this video.

I don’t pretend to know what the deal will look like, but Bijan will be the best paid running back in the NFL or #2 behind Gibbs sometime between now and the start of the season, if you believe some combination of Schefter and common sense. The Falcons are not going to let Bijan play out what’s likely to be another tremendous season in a running back-friendly offense led by Kevin Stefanski and Tommy Rees and then try to negotiate a mega deal, or slap a tag on him even though the running back tag is more manageable than it is for some other positions. They’re going to try to lock in something like a four year pact while Robinson is in his prime, and do so in such a way that they can stagger the cap hits to facilitate spending in, say, 2027 when they’ll want to be able to do so.

Regardless, the smart money is on Robinson starting the 2026 season with an extension as he looks to continue to sprint his way up the team’s all-time leaderboards.

The Athletic’s Eno Sarris predicted Los Angeles Dodgers left-hander Justin Wrobleski to outproduce Blake Snell in 2026.

Snell is set to miss the beginning of the season, with manager Dave Roberts saying they expect to have him back at the end of May. Wrobleski, on the other hand, is on the Opening Day roster, and will almost certainly get more opportunities.

With the head start he has over Snell, Sarris expects Wrobleski’s numbers to surpass the two-time Cy Young winner’s in 2026.

“Snell is only now beginning his progression, but he could work through it and be available by May, and give his customary 100 or so innings,” Sarris wrote. “He’d still be good, he put up nearly 2 WAR of value last year in 61 1/3 innings, and over 3 WAR in 104 innings the year prior. But his absence will likely give Wrobleski a head start. And the younger  Los Angeles Dodger lefty has been putting up good innings totals while refining a strong arsenal of pitches with stuff that he can command.

“…It looks like a nice, wide, stable arsenal with just enough strength on the fastballs to compete. Stability will be something that this Dodgers rotation may need as they encounter their yearly bouts with injury.”

Wrobleski made a middle-inning appearance against the Los Angeles Angels on Tuesday, and showed exactly why people are speaking of him so highly heading into this season.

He pitched four innings, striking out five batters while facing the minimum. Wrobleski made five total appearances this spring, and allowed a run in just one of them. He held opponents scoreless for his first three outings of the year.

What Role Will Justin Wrobleski Play in 2026?

Wrobleski’s role for the Dodgers in 2026 is kind of a gray area at the moment, but manager Dave Roberts said he would begin the season as a piggyback reliever and a spot starter.

Wrobleski’s strong performances have turned heads so far this year, with even the front office considering moving him up in the pecking order.

“I think his ability to grow and mature and learn how to harness his stuff and compete in those moments will serve him well as he tries to navigate a lineup two, three times,” Friedman said, per MLB’s Sonja Chen. “He’ll certainly be a candidate. He was also so good out of the ‘pen, we have to weigh that.” 

Wrobleski isn’t quite a member of the Dodgers’ rotation yet, but if he continues to put strong, multi-inning performances together, he’ll find his way there in no time.

Do you think Justin Wrobleski will outproduce Blake Snell?

Forward Kylian Mbappé publicly denied on Wednesday (25) reports that Real Madrid’s medical department had examined the wrong knee after the injury that kept him off the pitch for nearly two months.

"The news that they examined the wrong knee is not true," said the captain of the French national team.

The statement was made during a press conference at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough (USA), on the eve of the friendly between France and Brazil.

According to recent reports in the French and Spanish press, the club’s doctors had allegedly assessed the star’s right knee, delaying the diagnosis of the real issue, which was in his left knee.

The injury had kept him sidelined since late December.

Mbappé also took the opportunity to admit some responsibility for how the situation was handled publicly. He acknowledged that his silence may have fueled the rumors.

"Maybe I’m indirectly responsible because I didn’t communicate anything. When you don’t talk about what you have and what’s happening, you leave the door open to interpretations and everyone takes advantage of the situation. It’s part of the game," he concluded.

Controversy in France

After the disclosure of Mbappé’s alleged medical error, first reported by RMC radio, L'Equipe then published that midfielder Edouard Camavinga had gone through the same situation.

According to information published by the French newspaper on Wednesday (25), the club’s medical department also incorrectly assessed which ankle of midfielder Camavinga was injured.

As a result of this alleged diagnostic error, Camavinga was cleared and called up for the match against Celta de Vigo on the 7th of the same month.

The consequence, according to L'Équipe, was that the real problem worsened, which ended up keeping the player off the pitch for several weeks.

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

The first phase of the CBF Transforma Development League came to an end this Wednesday (25), when the teams that qualified for the competition’s semifinals were confirmed. The tournament is being played in Santa Catarina, and its champion will secure a spot in the 2026 CONMEBOL Evolución Festival. All matches are being broadcast live on CBF TV.

In the first phase, the teams in each group faced each other in a single round-robin format. In the semifinals, the leader of one group will face the runner-up of the other, and vice versa. The winners of these matches will play in the final. There will also be a match between the teams that do not advance to the final to determine third and fourth place.

In the same format, to decide the remaining positions, the third-placed team in one group will face the fourth-placed team in the other, and vice versa. The winners will go head-to-head for fifth and sixth place. There will also be a match to decide seventh and eighth places.

UNDER-13 BOYS

In the Under-13 Boys category, Palmeiras (one win and two draws) and Atlético-MG (one win, one draw and one loss) advanced from Group A, which also included Vasco da Gama and Athletico-PR. The other two spots were taken by Flamengo and Grêmio, both with two wins and one draw, from Group B, alongside Fluminense and Red Bull Bragantino.

Palmeiras is a semifinalist in the Under-13 Boys categoryCredits: @enocjunior/CBF

UNDER-14 GIRLS

With two wins and one draw, Grêmio and São Paulo were the teams that qualified from Group A in the Under-14 Girls category, which also included Centro Olímpico and Criciúma.

In Group B, Internacional and Corinthians advanced with two wins and one draw. Ferroviária and Avaí/Kindermann were also in this group.

Grêmio is in the semifinals of the Under-14 Girls categoryCredits: @benofotos/CBF

UNDER-16 GIRLS

São Paulo, with two wins and one draw, and Ferroviária, with two wins and one loss, remain in the competition as the representatives of Group A in the Under-16 Girls category, which also included Grêmio and Criciúma.

The teams that advanced from Group B were Flamengo, with three wins, and Internacional, with two wins and one loss.

São Paulo is in the semifinals of the Under-16 Girls categoryCredits: @enocjunior/CBF

SCHEDULE

The competition began on March 23 and, after a break on Thursday (26), the teams return to the field on Friday (27), starting at 8 a.m. Check out the upcoming semifinal matchups:

Friday | March 27

Under-16 Girls: São Paulo x Internacional - 10 a.m. - CT Barra FC 1, Itajaí (SC)

Under-16 Girls: Flamengo x Ferroviária - 10 a.m. - CT Barra FC 2, Itajaí (SC)

Under-14 Girls: Grêmio x Internacional - 2 p.m. - CD Futebol Catarinense, Balneário Camboriú (SC)

Under-14 Girls: Corinthians x São Paulo - 4 p.m. - CD Futebol Catarinense, Balneário Camboriú (SC)

Under-13 Boys: 1A x 2B - 4 p.m. - CT Barra FC 1, Itajaí (SC)

Under-13 Boys: 1B x 2A - 4 p.m. - CT Barra FC 2, Itajaí (SC)

Check the full table with the standings and other matchups by clicking here.

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

Widespread political and security concerns surrounding the upcoming World Cup are nothing new and will be forgotten once the first ball is kicked, FIFA vice-president Victor Montagliani said Wednesday.

This summer's soccer tournament is being hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, and the buildup has been complicated by the war in the Middle East, President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown and gang violence in Mexico, among other factors.

Iran has said it will not play its scheduled fixtures in the US after Trump warned Iranian players would be at risk, while travelling fans from various countries have voiced difficulties over obtaining visas and fears of being targeted by immigration agents.

But Montagliani, who heads soccer's North and Central American and Caribbean confederation CONCACAF, said the concerns were no different to those that preceded previous editions.

"The reality of the World Cups -- every World Cup FIFA has put on -- there's always been geopolitical issues. Always," he told the Business of Soccer conference in Atlanta.

"Go back to '78, Argentina, the junta and all that stuff," he added, referring to the edition that took place during the South American country's brutal military dictatorship.

Rights groups say around 30,000 people died or disappeared under the dictatorship, one of Latin America's bloodiest.

"Right now it's just magnified because everything else in the world is magnified, whether it's social media, or whether it's how the media reports things," said Montagliani.

"But it doesn't change our job... It's a reality of doing business. We deal with it. We will deal with it.

"And at the end of the day, like every other World Cup, on June 11, when the ball starts rolling, somehow everybody forgets about everything else and starts worrying about the game," he added.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has come under scrutiny for his close relationship with Trump, which has included attending a Gaza peace summit brokered by the US president.

Infantino awarded Trump a newly created FIFA Peace Prize at the World Cup draw ceremony in December.

"At the end of the day, our main goal is to ensure that the security is top notch, which is why we have to have our relationship solid with every federal government -- Canada, the US, and Mexico," said Montagliani.

"That the fans are safe. That they're going to enjoy themselves.

"And then once the ball starts rolling, it's all about football."

amz/bb

NASCAR is ready for the upcoming race weekend at Martinsville Speedway. After running the short-track package at Darlington Raceway, NASCAR heads to Martinsville for its first short-track race of the year. However, when will NASCAR wave the green flags throughout the weekend?

The NASCAR O'Reilly Series starts off the weekend with a 3:35 p.m. ET green flag at Martinsville on The CW on Saturday. The O'Reilly Series typically races on Saturday as the second event of the weekend; however, the NASCAR Truck Series will not compete at Martinsville in the spring.

Finally, the NASCAR Cup Series race at Martinsville will be green at 3:41 p.m. on FS1 on Sunday. Martinsville is the first short-track race on the schedule and the excitement is through the roof. NASCAR is ready to throw the green flags at Martinsville, starting with the O'Reilly Series event on Saturday afternoon.

More: NASCAR odds for Cup Series race at Martinsville in March 2026

This article originally appeared on Motorsports Wire: NASCAR reveals green-flag times for Martinsville in March 2026

Bruno Fernandes has become a cornerstone of yet another Manchester United manager’s system.

Fernandes was inarguably Ruben Amorim’s most reliable player, impressing as a box-to-box midfielder. Under Michael Carrick, the Portuguese maestro has returned to his preferred number 10 role and is now chasing the Premier League record for most assists in a season. 

United are searching for a permanent manager ahead of next season and it is far from guaranteed that their captain would want to be part of a new project all over again.

Significant offer for Bruno Fernandes

Last year, Bruno Fernandes revealed that Manchester United were open to parting ways with him amid interest from Saudi Arabia. He ultimately decided to stay after intervention from Ruben Amorim.

According to Talksport, Fernandes was “very close to leaving” United for the Saudi Pro League a year ago and “he is believed to be seriously considering heading for the exit.”

Bruno Fernandes Stats: 2025/26 Season

It is understood that Saudi’s big-money offer remains on the table. Furthermore, the 31-year-old also has a release clause of £57 million that can be triggered by top European clubs.

United’s hierarchy have made a major U-turn, as they are now “determined to fight to keep” Fernandes at Old Trafford.

“In order to achieve that they may have to give him a new contract and hike up his wages,” the report adds.

Morgan Gibbs-White identified as possible replacement

It is further claimed Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White is one potential replacement if Fernandes does leave in the summer.

The fearless Englishman, known for his dribbling ability and decisiveness in the final third, has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most versatile and prolific attackers. The attacking midfielder has 11 goals and five assists to his name in a Forest side battling relegation. 

Gibbs-White has both the mentality and the quality needed to fill Fernandes‘ void to a reasonable degree.

However, any deal for Gibbs-White is not going to be cheap, as his contract allegedly includes a release clause allowing him to move to a Champions League qualifying club for a fee in the region of £80m.

Featured image Alex Pantling 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

Obviously we’re not anywhere near high school football season right now, but plenty of people of dreaming for the moment toe hits leather once again this fall. As other sports take center stage all over the country, we’re going to begin a high school football stadium series and rank the Top 5 venues in every state. We continue with our rankings and head back to the New England region over in the Pine Tree State as Rivals ranks the Top 5 Maine high school football stadiums:

1. Boulos Stadium, Cheverus

There is something eye-catching to be said about this field. It sits at the bottom of the Cheverus High School’s campus with an impressive view of Back Cove and the Portland, Maine skyline. Without lights, games are held during an always-consistent 12:30 p.m. kickoff. Without bleachers, it is ‘Bring Your Own Chair’ or blanket seating for the game. With the action going from left to right or vice versa, the crowd will still get an eye-full of the visuals all game long. The school did undergo renovations this fall with artificial turf replacing the grass field, yet it is merely a minor cosmetic adjustment to one of the state’s finest sites.

2. Fitzpatrick Stadium, Portland

You can’t have a Top 5 list of the best stadiums/fields in Maine without including the place that is often referred to simply as “Fitzy”. As one of the state’s championship locations, this stadium has hosted plenty of Maine’s best recent football moments with a sideline walked upon by some of the state’s most legendary coaches. With Hadlock Field and the Portland Exposition Building on one side, the shaded hillside of Deering Avenue on the opposite side, and the always-present hum of traffic from Interstate 295 to go along with the crowd and sound system, it creates an atmosphere that is not duplicated anywhere when it comes to Maine high school football.

3. Warrior Memorial Field, Wells

After making the drive to Southern Maine, it is only a minute or two off Exit 19 on the Maine Turnpike to this gem of a field. Nestled into the woods of the school grounds is a step back in time to one of the state’s best quintessential small town football atmospheres that can be found in Maine. The red and white color for the Warriors team is all over on game day, the surrounding trees help to amplify the acoustics of the PA and a crowd, and the grass field just feels so right for it all. And on top of that, their Military Appreciation Night is one of the best presentations in the state of Maine.

4. Stadium Field, Bonny Eagle

Stadium Field has long been recognized as one of those locations in Maine that exude the vaunted Friday Night Lights atmosphere – that place where everybody in town can be found. Sure, ever place with lights can say they have Friday Night Lights atmosphere. But the noise and the fans around the field, the sights and the sounds, is something that people will tell you puts this place above anywhere else in Maine. And that feel, that vibe, leads to an atmosphere that makes the Scots one of the toughest teams to play on their ground (85-26 record at home). Unlike other peer opponents that have big grand stands or flashy lights or a perfectly crafted artificial turf surface, Bonny Eagle remains that tradition-rich locale that holds itself true to the vision of what Maine Friday night football is.

5. Charlie’s Field at Maxwell Complex, Winthrop

Even with an artificial turf makeover three years ago, this field keeps the same charm that has been a visual mainstay of Ramblers football for decades. Located a few miles from Winthrop High School on Town Hall Lane, fans park at the top of a hill that offers an amazing overlook of the field below. Fan can either watch from up top or they can make their way to small section of bleachers midway down the hill. Or they can go to ground level and its wrap-around fence for an up-close spot to the action. With woods surrounding one end zone and the opposite side of the field, Ramblers opponents have an uphill battle in more ways than one.

MaineHighSchoolFootball.com contributed to this report

How to Follow Maine High School Football

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

Stats aren't compiled in March, but this seems a good time to offer a few guesses. The Philadelphia Eagles' acquisition of Marquise "Hollywood" Brown grabbed a few headlines. It has everyone asking how he might fit into the offense.

Regardless of what happens with A.J. Brown, it stands to reason that Hollywood Brown might, at best, be the fourth option in this offense. If A.J. Brown leaves, the pecking order likely runs through DeVonta Smith, Dallas Goedert, and Saquon Barkley. If he doesn't, the targets for Hollywood Brown lessen. Educated guesses suggest he leaves, and the open up slightly, but even then, there are only so many footballs to go around.

Still, Hollywood Brown is too gifted to ignore. Even without knowing exactly how offensive coordinator Sean Mannion plans to structure things, it’s fair to expect a defined role that leans into his speed and big-play ability. With that in mind, here are a few way-too-early predictions.

1. 68 receptions, 884 yards, and six touchdowns

Last season, in 16 games, Brown totaled 49 receptions, averaging just over three catches per contest while hovering around 12 yards per reception. Stretch that across a 17-game season, bump the usage slightly, and assume a more aggressive vertical role, and the numbers begin to climb. In an offense led by Jalen Hurts, those opportunities should be there.

2. Five explosive plays of 40+ yards

No one knows when they'll happen or who they'll come against, but the ingredients are obvious. Hurts has one of the better deep balls in the league, and Brown thrives stretching defenses. It only takes one step behind a corner for him to flip the field. Expect a handful of highlight-reel moments that remind everyone why he was brought in.

3. Two games with at least 125 receiving yards

Every deep threat has those afternoons where everything clicks. A busted coverage here, a perfectly placed deep ball there, and suddenly the stat line balloons. Brown should have at least a couple of those performances where he looks like the most dangerous player on the field.

4. A season that sparks Pro Bowl debates (once 'snub' narratives begin).

Whether he actually earns the nod is another story, especially in a crowded NFC field. But if he hits these benchmarks while sharing targets, it won't take long for fans to start asking why his name isn't being mentioned more often. It’s early. There are no reps, no preseason snaps, and plenty of unknowns. Still, if things break right, Hollywood Brown won’t just be a complementary piece. He'll be one of the most intriguing weapons in Philadelphia's offense.

That's why he was signed. That's why he is here. This may not be a Saquon Barkley-level signing, but it is certainly significant.

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Predicting Hollywood Brown’s 2026 stats after joining Eagles

We’ve said it many times over the years, but midfielders are to football what middle relievers are to baseball or linemen are to American football: an invaluable commodity you can never overstock. And whether it was due to injuries, the accumulated fatigue from playing midweek matches all season long, or simply a lack of quality, Roma’s performances have waxed and waned with the fortunes of her midfield.

And once the declining production from the midfield was combined with injuries up front, well, you get what we’ve seen for most of the past six weeks: languid and lousy football. Fortunately, Roma has enough talent in attack and a few promising pieces in the midfield to make you believe better days are ahead. But they can always use more help in the midfield, particularly an attacking midfielder with poise, experience, and atrack record of success.

In that light, one of the early names on the summer transfer radar, Dortmund midfielder Julian Brandt, makes a lot of sense. Brandt, 29, has been a Bundesliga lifer, spending his entire 13-year career in the German top flight, including a productive seven-year stretch with BVB. Over the past three seasons alone, two of which he spent playing alongside Roma striker Donyell Malen, Brandt has scored 26 goals and provided 33 assists in all competitions.

And with the German international’s contract expiring in June, a reunion may be in the cards. According to multiple sources in Italy, including the Gazzetta dello Sport, Roma may attempt to reunite the two players by signing Brandt on a free transfer this summer.

Roma will face stiff competition for Brandt, but given his experience, playing profile, and affordability, he may be the ideal opening move for the Giallorossi this summer.

MLB analyst sets the tone for what could be a forgettable season for the Twins originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Coming into the 2025 season, the Minnesota Twins had some high expectations. They were thought to be one of the teams battling to be named champion of the AL Central, but that did not happen. 

Instead, injuries played a huge part in their downfall. Combine that with being the ultimate sellers at the trade deadline, and all hope for the season was lost. 

They finished the year with a 70-92 record, obviously missing the postseason. And while fans would like them to return to being a competitive group, that may not be the case in 2026. 

MORE: Twins reveal how close top prospects Walker Jenkins, Kaelen Culpepper are to MLB

MLB analyst sets the tone for what could be a forgettable season for the Twins

The Twins were dead quiet over the offseason. They slashed their payroll and did not have the finances to attract anyone of value.

That is quite unfortunate, but the Twins must move forward with what they have. And unfortunately, since spring has started, they have lost their ace, Pablo Lopez, after he underwent Tommy John surgery. 

They do have some exciting pieces, but it likely won't be enough to put them in contention. Bleacher Report's Tim Kelly doesn't have much faith in this club going into the new season. 

"If Mick Abel turns a strong spring into a breakout season, there's some decent depth in the starting rotation, even without Lopez. But the rest of the roster already looks thin, and between injuries and likely trades, it will get even thinner after the All-Star break."

Kelly could see the team being sellers again at the deadline, which wouldn't help their 2026 cause. He projects them to have an even worse season than they did in 2025, having them swap places with the Chicago White Sox, finishing last in the division with a 60-102 record. 

That may not be what the fans were hoping for, but it is what they should prepare themselves for.

More MLB news:

• Rays face a harsh 2026 outlook with a thin roster and a stacked division
• Padres enter the new season with a ton of glaring questions
• Tigers are banking on a trio of proven closers to solidify the late innings
• Cubs' starting rotation faces a massive gap between its ceiling and floor
• Rangers are gambling on a massive trio of bounce-back seasons

CHICAGO — The status Iowa State’s fifth consensus All-American in program history is still up in the air.

The Las Vegas native is “working tirelessly” to play with the No. 6 Cyclones (29-7, 12-6 Big 12) in their Sweet 16 contest against No. 23 Tennessee (24-11, 11-7 SEC) for their Friday matchup scheduled for 9:15 p.m. at the United Center.

Head coach T. J. Otzelberger shared the following with the media Wednesday afternoon:

“He’s working tirelessly every day. He has countless sessions in the training room, doing everything he can. His ankle is getting better every single day. It’s going to take right up to game time. We’re going to every possible chance to do that and he’s doing all that he can do. There’s not any percentages, any predictions. Unlikely, likely, it is literally he is working tirelessly to compete to do everything he can do to be on the court for our team. We’ll see. Each day, there is pretty significant progress, but we’ll see where we’re at game time Friday night.”

Jefferson missed the entirety of the Round of 32 game against No. 7 seeded Kentucky due to a sprained left ankle sustained in Friday’s 108-74 win over the Tigers in the Round of 64.

His two triple-doubles are the most in ISU’s basketball history by one player, recording 10 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists against West Virginia on Jan. 2, 2026, as well as 17 points, 10 rebounds and 12 assists against UCF on Jan. 20, 2026.

What channel is the No. 2 seeded Iowa State versus No. 6 seeded Tennessee game on?

The Sweet 16 matchup between the Cyclones and the Volunteers will play on Friday with an approximate tip time of 9:10 p.m. CDT. Andrew Catalon, Steve Lappas and Evan Washburn will be on the TBS/TruTV broadcast.

The NBA Board of Governors voted on Wednesday to authorize the league to explore potential expansion teams for Las Vegas and Seattle that would bring the league to 32 clubs.

The move is the first step in a lengthy process that could see new teams in Seattle, where the SuperSonics once played, and Las Vegas, which each year hosts NBA Summer League games involving young players.

"Our goal was in 2026 to resolve this issue one way or another," NBA commissioner Adam Silver said. "We need to know by the end of this calendar year what it is that we're doing."

It's a multi-year process, Silver stressed, that could result in one or two new NBA clubs or none at all.

"At the earliest we would have new teams coming into the league in the '28-'29 season," Silver said.

"If we do move forward, I don't think there's going to be any concern about the quality of the competition."

The NBA engaged investment bank PJT Partners as a strategic adviser to evaluate markets, ownership groups, arena infrastructure and economic implications of two new teams.

"We look forward to taking this next step and engaging with interested parties," Silver said.

It would take approval by 23 of the NBA's 30 governors to pass any motion on adding new teams.

"There was a discussion about dilution economically and dilution talent-wise," Silver said. "It's my view we have ample talent to fill 32 competitive teams."

Team values have skyrocketed in recent years with the price tag for a new club expected to be around $7 billion to $10 billion.

"I'm not going to speculate on prices," Silver said. "The market will determine the value of these teams and we'll decide whether or not to move forward. I expect there will be robust interest in these teams.

"We did not discuss franchise value per se in these meetings. We have a sense of where we think that value exists."

The Phoenix Suns were sold in 2022 for $4 billion. The Boston Celtics were sold last year for $6.1 billion and the Los Angeles Lakers were sold last year for $10 billion -- the highest-ever price paid for a US sports team.

Silver said there were no "concerns" by team owners about selling league equity.

"There weren't concerns," Silver said. "There are some owners who felt we just frankly don't need to expand. They felt we're in a very solid place with the 30-team league we have now.

"I wouldn't put that in the category of concern. It more went in the category of considerations."

The NBA last expanded to Charlotte in 2004.

"There's absolutely a chance that expansion will not happen. That's why we said we're exploring markets," Silver said. "Where the uncertainly lies is in instability outside the league."

Silver said that unlike past expansions open to many markets, the league was focused on Seattle and Las Vegas.

"There are some other great markets that could host NBA franchises. This time around, the focus was on these two markets," Silver said, calling them "unique" in supporting the league.

- Sporting hotbeds -

Should Seattle and Las Vegas land expansion teams, either Memphis or Minnesota would likely shift from the Western Conference to the Eastern Conference to give each 16 clubs.

The Seattle SuperSonics joined the NBA in 1967 and won the city's only NBA title in 1979 before moving to Oklahoma City in 2008 and winning last year's NBA crown.

Las Vegas hosts many sporting events, including a Formula One race and USA Basketball training camps.

Both cities landed successful NHL expansion teams in the past decade. Each has an NFL team and both will have MLB clubs when a new Vegas stadium opens for the former Oakland Athletics in 2028.

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Rucker joins an ownership group that includes seven-time NASCAR Cup champion Jimmie Johnson and Knighthead Capital Management. NASCAR legend Richard Petty, who owned the team before it morphed into Legacy, now works as a team ambassador. 

The acclaimed country singer and Hootie & the Blowfish frontman announced this on the Dan Patrick Show, noting how he has loved NASCAR for years. He is a three-time GRAMMY award winner, and was recently granted a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

.@dariusrucker announced that he is a new co-owner of NASCAR's Legacy Motor Club! pic.twitter.com/ZYarCTWc1D

— Dan Patrick Show (@dpshow) March 25, 2026

Legacy Motor Club is a two-car Toyota team, with plans to expand to a third full-time entry for 2026. They currently field the No. 42 and No. 43 with John Hunter Nemechek and Erik Jones, respectively. Johnson sometimes competed in a third car part-time, driving the No. 84 entry.

They currently sit 24th and 25th in driver points, and the team hasn’t been to Victory Lane since before it became Legacy Motor Club. That win came in the 2022 Southern 500 with Jones, while still operating as Petty GMS Motorsports.

So far this year, Legacy has two top tens, both courtesy of Jones. He finished tenth at Phoenix, and came back from a mid-race spin to finish tenth at Darlington last weekend as well.

At last, one of the short track greats gets his NASCAR opportunity

NASCAR isn't the only reason drivers reconsider fighting

How about a 750 horsepower package for NASCAR intermediates too?

To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.

The 2026 Copa do Nordeste kicked off with four matches this Tuesday (23), with wins for Sport, Fortaleza, ASA, and Retrô. This Wednesday, the competition will feature five more games. On Thursday, Sousa vs. Confiança will wrap up the round.

At Ilha do Retiro, Sport beat Jacuipense 2-1. All three goals came in the second half. Carlos de Pena opened the scoring for Sport. Then Adriano Jr equalized. In the closing minutes, Biel secured the home side’s victory.

At Presidente Vargas, in the Ceará derby, Fortaleza defeated Ferroviário 1-0, thanks to an own goal by Pedrinho.

Meanwhile, at Frei Epifânio, Retrô beat the home team, Imperatriz, also by 1-0, with a goal from Fernandinho.

At the Municipal Stadium in Arapiraca, ASA defeated Piauí 1-0. Higor Leite scored the game’s only goal.

Check out Wednesday’s matchups: Ceará vs. ABC, at 7 p.m., at Castelão; América vs. Maranhão, at 7 p.m., at Arena das Dunas; Vitória vs. Botafogo, at 7:30 p.m., at Barradão; Itabaiana vs. CRB, at 7:30 p.m., at Etelvino Mendonça; and Fluminense vs. Juazeirense, at 7:30 p.m., at Lindolfo Monteiro.

On Thursday, the round will conclude with Sousa vs. Confiança, at 7 p.m., at Marizão.

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

After just one season as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for DePaul, former Iowa women's basketball star guard Kathleen Doyle has been named a Thirty Under 30 honoree by the Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA).

According to the WBCA, the Thirty Under 30 program recognizes 30 up-and-coming women's basketball coaches under 30 at all levels of the game. Each honoree named has exemplified a commitment to community service, mentorship, impact on others, professional conduct, and involvement in professional organizations.

In her first year with the Blue Demons, Doyle made an immediate impact, working primarily with DePaul's guards while also leading its recruiting efforts. Doyle helped guide junior guard Kate Novik to second-team All-Big East honors after averaging a team-high 12.2 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game.

The best of the best 🌟

Congratulations to Coach KD on being named a WBCA Thirty Under 30 recipient!

📰 https://t.co/NPDlbR4qKapic.twitter.com/pKHLnhNRgs

— DePaul Women's Basketball (@DePaulWBBHoops) March 24, 2026

"We are thrilled the WBCA has chosen to honor Kathleen Doyle as part of its Thirty Under 30 program," said DePaul head coach Jill M. Pizzotti. "Kathleen's basketball knowledge and insight, on-court energy, tireless work ethic, and willingness to share her talents daily have made a significant impact on our staff. Coach 'KD' is a rising star and well deserving of this recognition."

Before joining DePaul's staff this past year, Doyle started her coaching career at Virginia Tech by serving one season as Director of Recruiting and Player Personnel. In addition to her collegiate coaching duties, Doyle is currently serving a four-year term on the United States Junior National Team Committee through 2029.

During her four-year collegiate playing career at Iowa from 2016-20, the 5-foot-9 native of LaGrange Park, Ill., was a standout for the Hawkeyes, averaging 12.5 points, 5.7 assists, 3.5 rebounds and 1.9 steals per game on 40.5% shooting across 114 starts in 123 games played.

Doyle's career-high average of 18.1 points per game on 44.1% shooting earned her the 2020 Big Ten Player of the Year award, which added to a collection of distinctions throughout her career that included Big Ten All-Freshman Team honors (2017), two-time first-team All-Big Ten honors (2019, 2020), Associated Press and USBWA third-team All-American honors (2020), and WBCA Coaches' All-American honors (2020).

Doyle would be chosen by the Indiana Fever with the No. 14 overall selection in the 2020 WNBA draft, where she would play just one season before heading overseas for the final two years of her playing career.

Contact/Follow us @HawkeyesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Iowa news, notes, and opinions. Follow Scout on X: @SpringgateNews

This article originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire: Former Iowa women's basketball star named WBCA 30-under-30 honoree

NEW YORK (AP) — Erik Spoelstra is from Portland. He grew up as a Trail Blazers fan, which means he absolutely could never bring himself to root for the Seattle SuperSonics.

But the idea of NBA games in Seattle again — about two decades after the SuperSonics were relocated to Oklahoma City — most certainly appeals to the Miami Heat coach.

Spoelstra's reaction to Wednesday's news that the league finally is going forward with formal exploration of expansion — and will be looking at Seattle and Las Vegas as the two candidate cities — largely mirrored the thoughts of many in the NBA.

He's for it.

“It would be fun,” Spoelstra said Wednesday. “I think all the Pacific Northwest people were sad when it left. I loved the games there. I grew up disliking the Sonics very much because I was a Trail Blazer fan, but it was an awesome environment. It’s a city that can really rally around their team.”

It's not a guarantee that expansion will happen, and the earliest possible season for a new team, or teams, to be added is likely 2028-29.

Still, just getting to this point is significant and brought reaction right away from Las Vegas, Seattle and other places around the league.

From the Las Vegas perspective, MGM Resorts CEO & President Bill Hornbuckle offered his thanks to the league's owners for the vote.

“It’s only the first step, but it’s a big step," Hornbuckle said. "A new team would be great for both locals and visitors, while creating jobs and providing a boost to the economy. ... We would welcome the opportunity to work with the NBA on creating an unforgettable fan experience.”

And from the Seattle perspective, Tod Leiweke — the CEO of the NHL's Kraken and someone who'll also be CEO of One Roof Sports and Entertainment, which is in the process of becoming the majority owner of the city's Climate Pledge Arena — said “the hardest part of this is now done.”

“We will put together a bid that has it all," Leiweke said. “And I would say the most important thing in our bid is the ability to do it and do it well. And that’s going to be very important for the NBA if ultimately they push ahead and want to expand, they’re going to want to make sure that it’s done well, that there’s no drama, that there’s no slips, there’s no mistakes.”

Heat center Bam Adebayo is in a relationship with Las Vegas Aces star A'ja Wilson, the four-time WNBA MVP, and he's spent plenty of time in that city to watch her games. He doesn't think an NBA team in that city would do anything to erode the support the Aces are getting.

“Aces fans are really true to the Aces,” Adebayo said.

The early returns certainly suggest that most current NBA players and coaches want to see expansion happen.

“I think we’re adding two good teams, two good markets,” Spoelstra said. “It’ll be a big positive for the league.”

___

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

The Tennessee Titans' scouting department is busy with college pro days and scouting the next class that will be joining the team as they continue their rebuild.

Now, with the draft less than a month away, activities are picking up around the team facility at the new Vanderbilt Health Football Center, as prospects continue to trickle in for Top 30 visits, and the latest to be identified by Arye Pulli on X (formerly Twitter) is Missouri edge, Zion Young.

Sources: The #Titans hosted Missouri pass-rusher Zion Young for a top-30 visit today.

Young has over ten pre-draft visits with NFL teams. pic.twitter.com/TlnRk40xEn

— Arye Pulli (@AryePulliNFL) March 25, 2026

Young is another edge prospect who could fit the Titans' edge profile. At 6-foot-5, 262 pounds, he is dominant at the point of attack to be a run-stuffing force on the edge, plays with a non-stop motor, and has an explosive upside as a pass rusher. He may not be recognized like Rueben Bain or David Bailey, but he is a powerful player with a starting-caliber floor and the ability to make an impact, and would be a great pick in the second round if available.

Young is the ninth Top 30 visitor identified and joins Miami Hurricanes’ edge Rueben Bain as an edge prospect connected to Top 30 visits with the Titans during the pre-draft process in Nashville.

This article originally appeared on Titans Wire: Missouri edge Zion Young latest to meet Titans on a Top 30 visit

Italy boss Rino Gattuso has revealed that the World Cup playoff tie against Northern Ireland on Thursday will be the biggest match of his career.

The Azzurri failed to directly qualify for the tournament from the group stages of the qualifiers, finishing behind a rampant Norway and just ahead of Israel. They now face Israel in a one-off semi-final before taking on the winner of the tie involving Wales and Bosnia.

Gattuso spoke at the pre-game press conference and he was asked if it will be the most important game of his career.

He responded – via Calciomercato: “It will definitely be the most important match. I have a lot at stake, I’m young, but I have a country on my back. I won’t deny that in recent months I’ve been stopped in the street many times, asking me to lead Italy to the World Cup. I’m used to the pressure, but it’s the most important match of my career.”

He also cast doubts about the fitness of Alessandro Bastoni and Gianluca Scamacca but other players should be available for selection.

“Bastoni has been working 30 percent with the team, and we’ll try again tonight. Scamaccaa is further back. They’re the only ones to evaluate; the others are all fine, including Calafiori, Mancini, and Politano.”

Gattuso was also asked to send a message to the Italians, who are desperate to finally qualify for a World Cup.

“It’s up to us. If we take to the field, even in the stadium, and give the impression of being on top of things, everything else will follow. We can’t ask anything of anyone; we are the architects of our own destiny. It takes great calm and the awareness that we’re playing against players with venom. They say we have no identity, but it’s right that they say so. We have to be ready.”

Kaustubh Pandey I GIFN

Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappé has on Wednesday launched a stern defence of the club, and specifically their medical setup.

This of course comes amid a difficult few days for those behind the scenes in Spain’s capital.

Real Madrid’s medical department have come under heavy fire of late, for the alleged misdiagnosis of Kylian Mbappé’s recent injury.

Several outlets, in fact, went as far as to claim that Los Blancos’ doctors had performed scans on the Frenchman’s right knee, when it was his left which was injured.

This resulted in Mbappé returning to the pitch to play whilst unfit, giving rise to a major setback.

Speaking during an exchange with the media whilst away on international duty on Wednesday, it therefore came as little surprise when the recent speculation surrounding developments in Madrid was put to the prolific goalscorer himself.

Mbappé, though, made use of the opportunity to throw his full backing behind his employers, assuring:

“The information that Real Madrid examined the wrong knee is not true. We’ve always had clear communication with Real Madrid.”

Conor Laird – GSFN

A former Liverpool attacker now looks destined to replace Mo Salah at Liverpool.

The Egyptian King is set to move on this summer, with Liverpool agreeing to a significant and symbolic parting of ways that will see Salah begin a new chapter elsewhere.

As for his destination, it remains uncertain. Even Salah himself may not have made a final decision yet. What is clear, however, is that he still belongs at the highest level. His quality has not faded to the point of stepping away from elite competition, and a continued stay in European football feels entirely plausible.

At Anfield, Salah is more than just a player- he is an icon whose influence has defined an era. Even now, he remains among the world’s elite, continuing to deliver at a level few can match. Replacing a player of that calibre isn’t just difficult; it borders on impossible.

There is no like-for-like successor in the current market. Not Michael Olise, not Yan Diomande- talented as they are, neither can replicate Salah’s output, presence, or consistency today. Perhaps in time, players of that profile may approach his level, but expecting an immediate replacement would be unrealistic.

And yet, Liverpool’s solution may not lie in searching across Europe at all. The answer, intriguingly, could already be closer to home.

Liverpool don’t usually do comebacks. When a player leaves Anfield, that’s typically when their chapter closes.

But every now and then, there are exceptions.

The most famous one is probably Ian Rush. He left for Juventus, came back, and ended up as Liverpool’s all-time top scorer. Not a bad way to do finish his second stint.

Then there’s Steve Staunton, who returned years after leaving in the early ‘90s and slotted back in for a couple more seasons without much fuss.

More recently, Robbie Fowler came back under Rafael Benítez, which felt more emotional than strategic but still worked in its own way.

And Craig Bellamy also had a second spell after a bit of time away, which ended in triumph for the Welshman.

If you look at all of them, there’s kind of a pattern. Most were attackers - players who could come in and make something happen straight away. And weirdly, a fair few of them were Welsh too.

It’s definitely not the norm for Liverpool, but when they do bring someone back, it’s usually for a pretty specific reason - and sometimes, it actually pays off.

In the case of replacing Mo Salah, it just makes so much sense for the Reds to return to one of their own. Someone whose career at Liverpool was thwarted because of Salah.

Someone who is just entering the prime years of his career.

Liverpool want to replace Salah with the best and right now one of the best right-wingers and left-footed players in the Premier League is Harry Wilson.

It just so happens that his contract expires at the end of the season. It just so happens that Liverpool are in need of more homegrown additions, especially club-trained ones.

Wilson was an incredible player for Liverpool's U18 and U21 sides. He dominated at that level and showcased his talent on numerous loan spells.He now has 19 goal contributions in his last 21 matches for club and country, and it now just feels like destiny that he will be the one to replace Salah.

When you put the pieces of the puzzle together - they all fit.

With most expecting him to be out until the summer of 2026, Will Ospreay defied the odds yet again, returning several months early at AEW Revolution after being cleared to compete one month earlier. Given the severity of the neck injury that put Ospreay out of action, one would think that even the biggest of Ospreay enemies, such as Kyle Fletcher, would have some sympathy for him, and would even be happy that Ospreay was back.

But when interviewed by "WhatCulture Wrestling" alongside fellow AEW star and significant other Skye Blue, Fletcher indicated he's in fact miserable that Ospreay is already back.

"No," Fletcher said. "Nope."

In contrast, Blue was all for Ospreay's return, in part because she understands what Ospreay went through to get back in the ring, having previously missed almost a year of action herself while recovering from a broken ankle.

"I think it's cool," Blue said. "You [Kyle] haven't had an injury like that where it's like you have your whole life taken away from you. I mean, I know mine wasn't as severe as a neck injury. But when you go from on the go, go go go, wrestling, wrestling, wrestling, flight, this, that, and then you go 'Oh I have to sit at home and I can't move,' it's a huge change. So it is very...yes, I know you don't like Will, but I think it's a very good thing that he was able to bounce back so quickly and he's back to doing what he loves, cause it's a mental game when you have it taken away from you from an injury and you just can't do anything."

If there was any thought that Blue's argument had perhaps swayed Fletcher to reconsider his position, the TBS Champion quickly put that to rest.

"I think it's terrible [he's back]," Fletcher said.

If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit "WhatCulture Wrestling" and provide an h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription

Read more: AEW Stars: Meet Their Spouses & Partners

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If I hadn't seen such riches, I could live with being poor.

Mohamed Salah's arrival at the club in 2017 was the catalyst for a return to riches. The mythologised 70s and 80s, happening before our eyes again.

Champions League titles, Premier League titles, winning the lot again - it was unimaginable as the club teetered on the brink of administration in 2010.

That's what Salah means: glory, greatness, always.

There are not enough superlatives in the English language to convey his relentless brilliance, but there are two tenets of truth to hold on to as the news breaks that he will leave the club at the end of this season:

1. 348 days ago a new contract was signed, securing his future at the club until 2027.
2. The brilliance has relented this season.

This is a short story of what has gone wrong for Liverpool this season, something has snapped internally.

The highest-paid player - and deservedly so - has not delivered to his usual standards on the pitch this season and not playing your highest-paid forward is not sustainable.

So Liverpool's highest-paid player, one of the greatest to ever do it, will leave at the end of this season. All of that is fine and to be expected - setting aside the emotional impact of losing a person who has been a constant in my life for almost a decade.

What isn't fine is what happened after the Leeds game or the cameras panning to the bench to capture ironic laughter after being substituted. For a man who bends time to his will on the football pitch, he has always had a strong sense of timing off it.

The timing of this announcement is not fine. Just like the Leeds comments were systematically delivered to render maximum impact, so this announcement has arrived like a punch to the gut.

The future of the manager is in doubt and instead of two weeks of reflection to draw breath before one final push, we have this.

Thank you Mo. Thank you a thousand times - but you could have waited. Nobody is bigger than Liverpool Football Club, not Bill Shankly, not Steven Gerrard, not Jurgen Klopp, not Mohamed Salah.

Find more from Lola Katz Roberts on the Goal Difference podcast

David Aldridge: Adam Silver, on tanking: "we are going to fix it. Full stop." Says there will be a special Board of Governors meeting in May to vote on proposed changes, so that they are in place before the NBA draft in June.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Adam Silver on tanking: We are going to fix it, full stop, there will be new incentives regarding the draft lottery

Tim Bontemps: Adam Silver: “Going into next season, the incentives (regarding the lottery and tanking) will be completely different than they are now.”

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “Going into next season, the incentives (regarding the …

Marc Stein: Adam Silver: "We didn't announce today (that) we are expanding. We announced today that we're exploring expanding."

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "We didn't announce today (that) we are expanding. We …

Tim Reynolds: Adam Silver says he still wants the final decision on expansion to come before 2026 ends.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Adam Silver says he still wants the final decision on …

David Aldridge: Silver said Seattle and Vegas are "unique" as potential expansion cities b/c of past connections to the NBA. Acknowledged that every owner didn't see the need to expand, citing the potential dilution of talent and other issues. Called those "considerations" on the owners' part.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Silver said Seattle and Vegas are "unique" as …

David Aldridge: Silver said the league owed it to Seattle and Vegas to be "transparent" in its interest in the two cities, rather than speaking more generally. "We need to know by the end of this calendar year what it is we're doing" about future expansion, Silver said Wednesday.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Silver said the league owed it to Seattle and Vegas to …

David Aldridge: Silver is asked about Magic Johnson being involved with a group trying to get an expansion team in Vegas. "I know interest from Magic will be welcomed by the league office," he says, while noting there may be other groups that will want to make bids.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Silver is asked about Magic Johnson being involved …

David Aldridge: Regarding potential $7-10B expansion fees for new teams, Silver says the discussion today was more on "understanding the math" around dilution of existing revenues if expansion proceeds. "Certainly, with our bankers, we think we have an understanding of where the market exists."

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Regarding potential $7-10B expansion fees for new …

Brad Townsend: Brandon Williams is listed as questionable, indicating there’s a good chance he’ll clear concussion protocol. He took part in some of this morning’s shootaround.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Brandon Williams is listed as questionable, indicating …

NEW YORK (AP) — Richie Garcia is worried about the impact that robot umpires will have on their human counterparts.

Major League Baseball introduced the Automated Ball-Strike System for regular-season play this season starting with the New York Yankees' opener at San Francisco on Wednesday night, giving teams a chance to appeal strike zone decisions to a system based on 12 Hawk-Eye cameras.

“I think it’s embarrassing, embarrassing to the umpires that are calling the game. Nobody likes to be humiliated in front of 30,000, 40,000 people,” said Garcia, a major league umpire from 1975-99. “What Major League Baseball is saying is: I don’t trust the umpire’s strike zone, so I’m going to use something that’s going to be operated by some computer geek that knows nothing about baseball, and he’s the one that’s going to measure this and measure that because he’s got a Ph.D. in physics or whatever the hell he’s got a degree in.”

Garcia drew criticism for not calling a strike on a 2-2 pitch from San Diego's Mark Langston to the Yankees' Tino Martinez in the 1998 World Series opener, and Martinez hit a tiebreaking grand slam on the next offering that sparked New York to a four-game sweep.

Umpires keep improving

While there is constant debate over calls, umpires were overall their most accurate ever last year. Just not as perfect as technology.

There were 368,898 regular-season pitches called by big league umps last season, an average of 152 per game. The 92.83% accuracy rate was the highest — an average of 10.88 missed calls per game, according to MLB. That is down from an average of 16.58 missed calls per game in 2016, when the accuracy rate was 89.31%.

“I’m 60 and it seems to me like the younger generation really wants this technology and they want the certainty of a pitch being a ball or a strike," said Ted Barrett, a big league ump from 1994 to 2022.

Under ABS, each team gets two challenges per game and keeps a challenge if successful. A team out of challenges gets one additional in each extra inning.

“As an umpire, you never want to miss anything. You want to be absolutely 100% correct, but we’re all human and that’s just not possible,” said Sam Holbrook, an MLB umpire from 1996 to 2022. “Social media and the media have really been hammering the umpires for pitches that are just minutely off the zone or in the zone or whatever, and it’s just too hard to be perfect with all of this. I think it’s going to be good to correct any egregious pitches. I think it’s going to show how good the umpires actually are.”

A quarter-century of electronic evaluation

MLB installed an Umpire Information System developed by Questec at some ballparks in 2001 and upgraded to a league-wide Zone Evaluation in 2009 as part the PITCHf/x system. TrackMan's doppler radar system took over in 2017 as part of MLB Statcast.

Since 2009, umpires have received a Z-E evaluation for every game they work behind the plate. Since 2014, they also have experienced getting overturned by expanded video review.

“It's tough mentally on an umpire because you failed at your job and there’s that instant feedback of failure,” Barrett said. “Nobody wants to fail at your job, but then there’s also the, hey, thank God I didn’t cost that team a game or a run or a pennant. No one wants to live with that. And so we take the positive of that. The negative is sometimes it’s like: What am I doing over there? I got overturned twice at first base."

Under ABS, a strike is defined as when the ball crosses over the plate at the midpoint of the plate in a box 53.5% of the batter’s height at the top and 27% at the bottom. That is different from the rule book strike zone of a cube whose top is the midpoint between the top of the shoulders and the top of the uniform pants and whose bottom is at the hollow beneath the kneecap.

“They’re going to change to what the ABS calls, whether it’s a challenge or not because, remember, they are getting evaluated on their performance based on that ABS,” Barrett said.

Spring training test results from 2026

Philadelphia had the best spring training challenge success rate among teams at the plate with 61%, followed by the Chicago Cubs (60%), Boston and Seattle (54% each), while Texas and Arizona (33% each) and Kansas City (34%) were at the bottom.

St. Louis (75%), Cincinnati (71%) and Cleveland (70%) topped challenge success by fielding teams, while the Los Angeles Dodgers (43%) and Baltimore (45%) lagged.

Batters won 46% of 887 challenges and defense 60% of 1,020. The Yankees won the most challenges overall with 54, and Arizona, the Dodgers and the New York Mets tied for the fewest wins with 20.

Boston's Willson Contreras had the most batter challenges and was successful on six of seven. Philadelphia's Christian Cairo had the most challenges among batters with a 100% success rate at four.

Among catchers, Pedro Pagés of St. Louis was 8 for 8, Cincinnati's P.J. Higgins 7 for 7 and Milwaukee's Jeferson Quero 6 for 6.

Edgar Quero of the Chicago White Sox was 2 for 11, Payton Henry of the New York Yankees 1 for 9 and Austin Wynns of the Athletics 0 for 7.

___

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

Los Angeles Golf Club (LAGC) took down Jupiter Links GC in Match 2 of the TGL finals Tuesday night with a 9-2 win, securing the SoFi Cup making LAGC the 2026 TGL Season Champions. LAGC went on a remarkable 9-0 run, capped off with three straight eagles on the final three holes to come back from a 0-2 deficit to secure the victory. LAGC also won Match 1 against Jupiter Links GC in a 6-5 victory Monday night. The victory makes LAGC only the second TGL Season Champions, with Atlanta Drive GC winning the inaugural TGL Championship against New York GC in 2025.

Making a surprise return to the SoFi Center on Tuesday night was Tiger Woods, competing for the first time in more than a year. Woods, who had been recovering from back surgery in October, decided to play in Match 2 after LAGC won Match 1 Monday evening. Despite the lengthy absence, Woods’ play was for the most part sharp, hitting key shots to help Jupiter Links take an early 2-0 lead in the match. Woods’ return however was not enough to elevate Jupiter Links GC to victory.

LAGC tied things up at 2-2 on the sixth hole. A missed short three-foot putt on the seventh hole by Woods gave LAGC a 3-2 lead, and LAGC never looked back from there. LAGC would go one to make three straight eagles, ending the match with a 9-2 LAGC victory.

With the win, LAGC takes the $9 million team prize, and is comprised of Collin Morikawa, Justin Rose, Sahith Theegala, and Tommy Fleetwood. Runner up Jupiter Links GC takes home $4.5 million, and is comprised of Tiger Woods, Max Homa, Tom Kim, and Kevin Kisner. Rose, Theegala, and Fleetwood were on the playing roster for LAGC for Tuesday night’s matchup, whereas Jupiter Links GC were fielding Woods, Homa, and Kim.

Much speculation has arisen over whether Woods will play the 2026 Masters Tournament. While he indicated playing TGL was a step in his recovery process, he did not give any indications on whether he intended to be in the field at the Masters, which is to be held April 9-12.

Woods’ comments Tuesday night were limited to the match at hand. "It felt great to be back with these guys," Woods said. "Frustrated we didn't get it done. We had opportunities. It feels good to be back. I'd like to be back in better circumstances."

The Cleveland Cavaliers are in the midst of a three-game stretch against teams from the Sunshine State. On Wednesday, they’ll take on the Miami Heat for the first of two games in a row against an opponent they could face in the first round of the playoffs.

The Cavs’ position at fourth in the conference is seemingly set. Spots five through 10 in the standings aren’t. Right now, two-and-a-half games separate the fifth-seeded Toronto Raptors and the 10th-seeded Heat.

Miami is struggling and has fallen to the bottom of the Play-In as a result. They’ve lost five in a row. We’ll see if the Cavs can extend that losing streak a couple of games further this week.

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Who: Cleveland Cavaliers (45-27) vs. Miami Heat (38-34)

Where: Rocket Arena – Cleveland, OH

When: Wed., March 25 at 7:30 PM

TV: FanDuel Sports Network Ohio, FanDuel Sports App, NBA League Pass

Point spread: Cavs -2.5

Cavs injury report: Jaylon Tyson – OUT (toe), Jarrett Allen – OUT (knee), Craig Porter Jr. – OUT (groin), Larry Nance Jr. – QUESTIONABLE (illness), Olivier Sarr – OUT (G League)

Heat injury report: Terry Rozier – OUT (not with team), Vladislav Goldin – OUT (G League), Trevor Keels – OUT (G League), Jahmir Young – OUT (G League)

Cavs expectedstarting lineup: James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Sam Merrill, Dean Wade, Evan Mobley

Heat expected starting lineup: Davion Mitchell, Tyler Herro, Pelle Larsson, Andrew Wiggins, Bam Adebayo

Previous matchup: The shorthanded (and later fined) Cavs defeated the Heat 130-116 on Nov. 12.

Here’s a look at both teams’ impact stats via Cleaning the Glass.

About a week after a Wall Street Journal report signaled that the 2026 NFL season would kick off on a Wednesday, the league made it official.

Next season will get underway on Wednesday, Sept. 9, at 8:20 p.m. ET in Seattle, where the defending Super Bowl champion Seahawks will host an opponent that will be announced when the full regular-season schedule comes out later this spring.

The next day, on Thursday, Sept. 10, at approximately 8:35 p.m. ET, the NFL will launch its first-ever regular-season game in Melbourne, Australia. Continuing the NFC West theme, the San Francisco 49ers will take on the Los Angeles Rams Down Under.

Draft your Yahoo Fantasy Baseball team for the 2026 MLB Season

This story is being updated.

After years of rumor and speculation, the NBA is moving — suddenly rather quickly — toward expansion.

The league announced Wednesday, March 25 that its Board of Governors voted to formally explore bids for potential expansion franchises to be added to the Seattle and Las Vegas markets.

“Today’s vote reflects our Board’s interest in exploring potential expansion to Las Vegas and Seattle – two markets with a long history of support for NBA basketball,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said Wednesday in a statement. “We look forward to taking this next step and engaging with interested parties.”

Here’s everything you need to know about NBA expansion in Seattle and Las Vegas:

What does this mean?

This announcement doesn’t certify, with complete certainty, that NBA teams will be tipping off in Seattle and Las Vegas at the start of the 2028-29 season, though this is the next crucial step toward that.

Essentially, Wednesday’s vote signals an appetite for the 30 ownership groups in the NBA to expand to 32 teams. The league’s constitution stipulates that a measure like this requires at least 23 of 30 votes to pass, representing a supermajority of at least 76.7%. NBA owners, seeing the influx of revenue that would be generated from expansion in Seattle and Las Vegas, want that process to ramp up and intensify.

What happens next?

The NBA also announced that it contracted PJT Partners, an investment bank, to assess the health and viability of the prospective ownership groups that would be interested in establishing operations in those markets.

This means that prospective ownership groups for those two markets will now organize funding and build business plans and long-term prospectuses to present to the NBA’s Board of Governors, who would then select the options they view most favorably for the long-term health of the league.

If viable and appealing prospective ownership groups emerge, the Board of Governors could hold another vote, as soon as later this year, to finalize any potential transactions.

Over the last three decades, team ownership within the major domestic sports leagues has been an exceptional investment. Franchise valuations have skyrocketed through ever-expanding media rights deals, so even though the reported $7 billion-$10 billion price tag may produce some sticker shock, it stands to reason that any potential ownership groups would see a sizable return on that investment.

Are the Seattle SuperSonics back?

That’s still yet to be determined. But Wednesday’s announcement is a crucial step toward the SuperSonics returning to Seattle.

The franchise, which began play in the city in 1967, eventually moved to Oklahoma City in 2008, where it became the Thunder. As part of a settlement with the City of Seattle at the time of the relocation, all SuperSonics intellectual property, including branding, color schemes, logos and history will transfer at no cost to the new ownership group.

This means that, if and when a new ownership group officially clears NBA requirements and the expansion to Seattle is approved, it will have the right to use the SuperSonics logo and branding. But it would not be required to do so.

Given the rich history and tradition of the SuperSonics in Seattle, and the community’s attachment to the team, it’s an overwhelmingly logical choice to reestablish the SuperSonics in Seattle. While in Seattle, the SuperSonics won six division titles, three conference championships and an NBA Finals in 1979.

Where will Las Vegas and Seattle NBA teams play?

The new Seattle team is likely to play in Climate Pledge Arena, currently home to the NHL's Seattle Kraken. The building, which still features the former KeyArena's roof after a $1.2 billion renovation was completed in 2021, has been designed to be retrofitted for basketball.

The new Las Vegas NBA franchise would likely play at T-Mobile Arena, at least initially. It's currently home to the NHL's Vegas Golden Knights, as well as the NBA Cup semifinals and finals. The arena opened in 2016.

Who might own new Las Vegas, Seattle teams?

The NHL's Vegas Golden Knights and Seattle Kraken each have notable figures who could become focal points of potential ownership groups in the NBA.

Kraken owner Samantha Holloway formed a new company earlier this week, with a portfolio that includes majority ownership of the Kraken and Climate Pledge Arena, “to enable the pursuit of future opportunities,” she announced. Its first major endeavor is expected to be the formal pursuit of Seattle's new NBA franchise, according to KOMO News.

Vegas Golden Knights owner Bill Foley, who also owns part of T-Mobile Arena, previously said he wanted to bring the NBA to Las Vegas. He said in a 2024 PBS interview, "We have a plan in place to spend about $300 million to improve" the arena for an NBA team.

The Las Vegas Review-Journal previously reported that NBA legend Magic Johnson met with Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo about joining an ownership group if Las Vegas were to be awarded a team. Shaquille O'Neal also told reporters last year that he wanted to be "heavily involved" if an NBA expansion team were to come to Las Vegas.

LeBron James said recently he no longer is planning to be part of a group that puts in an ownership bid for a Las Vegas NBA franchise, despite previously expressing interest in doing so after his playing career.

How might an NBA expansion draft work?

When the NBA last held an expansion draft for the then-Charlotte Bobcats ahead of the 2004-05 season, each NBA team was permitted to protect a maximum of eight players under contract or entering restricted free agency on its roster. The Bobcats had to select a minimum of 14 unprotected players, but the other teams could only lose one player. Unrestricted free agents could not be protected or selected by the Bobcats. There were also special salary cap and trade exemptions in place.

That expansion draft, however, occurred under a previous collective bargaining agreement between the NBA and National Basketball Players Association. NBA rules allow for changes to be made so long as the league and the players' union agree. With two teams joining the league this time, expansion draft adjustments could be in order.

When would the Las Vegas and Seattle franchises start playing?

The plan, as articulated by Silver last month, is for these two new franchises to join the league and begin playing games in time for the 2028-29 NBA season. This is all contingent on another formal vote of the NBA's Board of Governors once ownership groups are picked.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What NBA expansion vote means for Las Vegas, Seattle

The San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams are facing off in the first-ever NFL regular season game in Melbourne, Australia, in Week 1 this season, which will take place on Thursday, September 10th at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

On Wednesday, a kickoff time was revealed for the game: 5:35 p.m. PT. Locally, this game will be taking place on Friday morning at 10:35 a.m. in Melbourne, but the game will air on Thursday evening in the United States with the 17-hour time change.

San Francisco’s game will be the second one to kick off the new league year, as the Seattle Seahawks will host the regular season opener on Wednesday, September 9th against an opponent to be determined.

With the time slot, it seems like this game will be the Thursday Night Primetime Game for Week 1. It will be a quick trip for the 49ers, likely, who will have to accommodate the time change and return for Week 2, although the NFL may help San Francisco with an early bye week this season.

But, the news announced on Wednesday backs up a report last week from the Wall Street Journal’s Joe Flint that the 49ers and Rams would be playing on Thursday after the Seahawks played on Wednesday to kick off the new season.

Pretty good way to start the season.

Antonio Rudiger has only a few months left on his contract at Real Madrid and there has been no progress over an extension so far.

Doubts had grown over his future not so long ago, given his physical issues had kept him from reaching his best form. His uncertain situation had led to strong interest from Serie A giants Juventus.

But the 33-year-old, in recent weeks, has overcome those problems and showcased his best version again, especially in the big games against Manchester City.

Real Madrid want to keep Rudiger

But, according to journalist Matteo Moretto, Real Madrid want to do everything in their power to keep hold of Rudiger beyond this season.

The Merengues are fully aware of the value that he brings to the table with his experience and leadership and see him as their defensive lynchpin.

A new contract on the horizon. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

So, even though there were doubts about his fitness in the past, Los Blancos have been convinced by the 33-year-old centre-back’s recent form and intend to hold on to him for next season.

As such, Moretto reports that Rudiger is now closer to renewing his contract at Real Madrid than leaving the club as a free agent.

The German international’s priority has always been to stay at Real Madrid and with the club also on the same page now, a renewal appears to be on the horizon.

In case a financial agreement cannot be reached once negotiations actually begin, the former Chelsea ace could reassess his situation. But, for now, everything indicates that Rudiger will be offered a new contract by Real Madrid.

The start of the 2026 NFL regular season is going to look a touch different.

The defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks will kick things off on Sept. 9, which is a Wednesday. The opponent they face at Lumen Field will be revealed at a later date. On Sept. 10, the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers will continue the glut of NFC West teams out of the gate as they face off in the league's first regular-season game in Australia. It will be the first of a record nine international dates on the 2026 season's ledger.

With Labor Day falling on Sept. 7 this year, the league had to advance its first games so as not to conflict with high school contests across the country.

All NFL news on and off the field. Sign up for USA TODAY's 4th and Monday newsletter.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NFL schedule: Seahawks to open season, another international game announced

SAN FRANCISCO — The Los Angeles Dodgers, the two-time World Series champions, the team that is drawing all of the hatred, the team responsible for calls for a salary cap, wishes everyone would stop and just look at the numbers.

Yes, they project to open the season with a $322.4 million payroll, based on the MLB Labor Relations Department's present-day salary calculations on 40-man rosters obtained this week by USA TODAY Sports.

But guess what?

Due to the Dodgers' heavy use of deferred contracts and signing bonuses, the team's 2026 payroll is dwarfed by the New York Mets, whose 40-man payroll is projected at $357.6 million (in MLB's calculated present-day value).

That's a team that didn’t even make the playoffs last year and last won a World Series in 1986.

The New York Yankees, who last won the World Series in 2009, are the third team that projects to open the season with a payroll exceeding $300 million.

Why, there are four teams this season who will open the season with payrolls within $50 million of the Dodgers: the Yankees ($301 million), Philadelphia Phillies ($283.6 million) and Toronto Blue Jays ($278.9 million).

There are a record 11 teams who are projected to open the season with payrolls of at least $200 million, according to the labor relations salary figures submitted to teams.

The San Francisco Giants, who last reached the playoffs in 2021, are the only team among the top 11 payrolls who have failed to reach the postseason in the last two years.

On the flip side – to the frustrations of the big-market teams who provide revenue sharing every year – there are eight teams whose opening-day payrolls will be below $100 million. The Cleveland Guardians are the only sub-$100 million team that reached the postseason last year.

Here are the bottom 11 teams in projected 40-man payroll:

• Colorado Rockies: $118.3 million
• Pittsburgh Pirates: $102 million
• St. Louis Cardinals: $98.1 million
• Minnesota Twins: $96.7 million
• Athletics: $91.8 million
• Tampa Bay Rays: $89.6 million
• Washington Nationals: $87.9 million
• Chicago White Sox: $83.9 million
• Miami Marlins: $79.4 million
• Cleveland Guardians: $70 million

The only teams without a top-10 payroll who reached the postseason the past two years are the Brewers and the Guardians. And yet, the only teams with a top-10 payroll who have reached the postseason each of the past two seasons are the Dodgers, Yankees, Phillies, and Padres.

The team making the biggest payroll jump in payroll from a year ago are the Tigers, rising by more than $60 million and the Blue Jays, with about a $50 million increase. The Texas Rangers, who missed the playoffs last year, had the biggest decrease from $220.5 million to $183.5 million.

There are 76 players who will earn more than $20 million this year, led by New York Mets left fielder Juan Soto, whose salary is $61.875 million when calculated by MLB’s Labor Relations Department. The LRD numbers include the player’s actual salary plus his pro-rated signing bonus before any player or club options.

This is why Dodgers right fielder Kyle Tucker, who signed a four-year, $240 million contract this winter, has a $33 million salary, per MLB’s calculations this year, but skyrockets to $80.5 million in 2027. He has an opt-out after the 2027 season, and his salary is listed at $53.79 million each of the last two years, according to the LRD.

Tucker will earn a base salary of just $1 million this season, and will earn $32 million of his $64 million signing bonus. The contract jumps in 2027 since his base salary rises from $1 million to $45 million, with a $48.5 million present-day value of his contact.

The Dodgers still are responsible for a $57.121 million luxury tax hit each year for Tucker. His AAV is reduced because of the $30 million of deferrals in his contract, lowering the present-day value of his contract from $240 million to $228.485 million.

It’s similar to the calculations for Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani’s contract. He signed a 10-year, $700 million contract, but $680 million is deferred, lowering the AAV to $460 million. Ohtani’s salary this year is calculated at $28.206 million, according to the LRD.

The LRD numbers are not used for team’s luxury tax calculations. The Dodgers’ luxury-tax payment for Ohtani will be $46 million, and not $28.2 million, but still saves them $24 million a year because of his record deferrals. Luxury tax salaries are the total of a players’ salary (present-day value) divided by the number of guaranteed years.

The Dodgers and Yankees each have six players earning at least $20 million this year, while the Mets, Giants and Padres have five players apiece.

The Washington Nationals are the lone team with no player earning $10 million, topped by Trevor Williams’ $7 million salary. The St. Louis Cardinals and Tampa Bay Rays each have only one $10 million player.

MLB payrolls 2026

(Entering opening week – Includes 40-man rosters, non-roster players and cash transactions)

1. New York Mets — $357,626,125
2. Los Angeles Dodgers — $322,385,057
3. New York Yankees — $301,064,810
4. Philadelphia Phillies — $283,686,918
5. Toronto Blue Jays — $278,989,858
6. Atlanta Braves — $252,141,372
7. Houston Astros — $246,519,331
8. San Diego Padres — $224,833,896
9. Chicago Cubs — $220,693,350
10. Detroit Tigers — $209,415,401
11. San Francisco Giants — $200,800,003
12. Boston Red Sox — $198,883,374
13. Texas Rangers — $183,539,230
14. Arizona Diamondbacks — $183,460,266
15. Los Angeles Angels — $179,002,696
16. Baltimore Orioles — $170,369,743
17. Seattle Mariners — $160,726,794
18. Kansas City Royals — $141,244,816
19. Milwaukee Brewers — $125,467,605
20. Cincinnati Reds — $124,308,099
21. Colorado Rockies — $118,302,854
22. Pittsburgh Pirates — $102,058,886
23. St. Louis Cardinals — $98,115,902
24. Minnesota Twins — $96,726,784
25. Athletics — $91,849,688
26. Tampa Bay Rays — $89,632,420
27. Washington Nationals — $87,955,033
28. Chicago White Sox — $83,892,150
29. Miami Marlins — $79,429,030
30. Cleveland Guardians — $69,984,029

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: MLB payrolls 2026: Why Dodgers don't have the highest in baseball

Las Vegas is quickly becoming a new hub city for sports, and the NFL appears keen on adding to that growing reputation.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, a vote will take place at next week’s NFL owners meetings to confirm Allegiant Stadium as the site of Super Bowl LXIII, with one source declaring it as “a matter of formality.”

If the vote succeeds as expected, Las Vegas will host its second Super Bowl. Allegiant Stadium was the site of Super Bowl LVIII in 2024, which saw the Kansas City Chiefs defeat the San Francisco 49ers.

Along with Las Vegas Raiders and UNLV football games, Allegiant Stadium is set to be home to a myriad of major sporting events. WrestleMania is scheduled in Las Vegas for the second straight year in April, while the NCAA will host the College Football Playoff National Championship game there in Jan. 2027.

Allegiant Stadium joins the ranks of stadiums set to hold their second Super Bowls. Next season will see the Super Bowl return to SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., which saw the Los Angeles Rams win in their home stadium against the Cincinnati Bengals. 2028’s Super Bowl matchup will return to Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta for the first time since 2019, when the Rams fell to the New England Patriots.

Aaron Judge reveals true thoughts on Yankees free agency: 'it was a blast' originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Yankees were facing a major issue a few years ago with Aaron Judge. He had a chance to leave in free agency, and there seemed to be a decent chance of his departure.

Fortunately, he stayed in New York and will hopefully spend the rest of what should be a first-ballot Hall of Fame career all with the Yankees.

A few years removed from his free agency, Judge revealed his true thoughts to Kevin Durant during an appearance on The Boardroom. Judge shared that, while "it was a blast," free agency was still "stressful."

Aaron Judge shares real thoughts on free agency

"It was a blast," Judge said. "Vets always say, 'Wait till free agency - you'll love it. It's fun to have the freedom to go anywhere and talk to teams. But it was stressful. You lose the safety net. You go from knowing you're with the Yankees to being a free agent - it's all on you."

Judge's comments on his free agency are both very candid and understandable. Being a free agent gives a player a chance to feel valued by teams around the league.

And for a player like Judge, getting interest from the Yankees and other teams, most notably the San Francisco Giants, was, as he described it, "a blast."

More: Luis Gil sent down to minor leagues in strange Yankees roster move

Of course, it wasn't all smooth sailing, as Judge was facing a dilemma where he was unsigned, and didn't have a fallback option in a team he was under contract with.

It's an interesting perspective, as a player like Judge surely would've found some landing spot in free agency. But the lack of security is real, and eagerly waiting to sign the new deal is surely a stressful time, as Judge noted.

Judge is carving out a legendary career, and he could've done so with a new team. But he came back to the Yankees in free agency.

While free agency might've been a bit stressful for Judge, at the end of the day, it was a "blast" for the Yankees superstar, as he got to visit with teams around baseball, and still ended up with a $360 million deal back with the Yankees.

More MLB news:

• Reds’ Hunter Greene to be out until July amid brutal injury news
• Dodgers’ Roki Sasaki will return to rotation, not bullpen according Dave Roberts
• Alex Cora announces Caleb Durbin is Red Sox starting third baseman
• Joey Wentz is out for the season with a torn ACL for the Braves
• Braves predicted to trade Bryce Elder for Lars Nootbaar
• Jesus Luzardo’s $135 million extension is a steal for Phillies
• This 19-year MLB record is finally over for the Giants
• Jacob DeGrom is only 149 strikeouts from 2,000 for his career

As college basketball heads toward the Final Four next week, much of the sport’s focus will be on the simmering uncertainty at several of the sport’s blue bloods.

North Carolina’s transition plan from Roy Williams to Hubert Davis went bust. Kansas could be facing just its second coaching search since 1988, caught between cross-pressures to elevate current assistant/former NBA coach/alum Jacque Vaughn or cast a wider net if Bill Self retires. And Kentucky’s discontent after 15 years of John Calipari has put Mark Pope, another alum, on the hot seat headed into next year. 

Meanwhile, four years after the retirement of Mike Krzyzewski, Duke is in its third straight Sweet 16, has won 83.7% of its games under Jon Scheyer and seems poised to continue contending for national titles as far as the eye can see.

Over the history of college sports, few tasks have been more vexing for schools and administrators than keeping things both successful and sane around a prominent program once their forever coach leaves. 

Duke has made it look easy. It might even be the most well-executed coaching handoff there’s ever been from legend to successor. 

“The following of one of the very best coaches of any sport, arguably one of the very best basketball coaches in the history of the game, to a young, up-and-coming assistant coach that was a very good college player, there was a lot of room for that not to work,” ACC commissioner Jim Phillips told Yahoo Sports. “In my experience in college athletics, which is over 30 years, I've not seen a more seamless transition than what's taken place.”

Given what a towering figure Krzyzewski became on his way to 1,202 wins and five national titles across his 42 seasons, it’s remarkable how drama-free the Duke program has been the past four seasons under the 38-year-old Scheyer. 

Lance King via Getty Images

While the last two seasons have met rough endings — an upset in the 2024 Elite Eight to NC State and a last-minute collapse in the Final Four against Houston 12 months ago — Scheyer has earned enough benefit of the doubt with three ACC tournament titles and an unrivaled recruiting operation to quiet the noise that typically consumes young coaches who have to learn on the job in high-profile environments.  

“You’re always on edge because you know sitting in that chair, replacing that person, the expectations are so high it’s hard to have a good night of sleep,” said UNLV coach Josh Pastner, who took over for John Calipari at Memphis when he was just 31 years old. “It’s like having success is a relief because you have to meet a certain bar. You’re always looking over your shoulder. It’s on your mind 24/7, 365, knowing that’s what you’re being compared to and as human beings, one of our great enemies is comparison to others. It’s hard to disassociate yourself from that. It takes a lot of discipline because the fan base and your bosses are comparing.”

Taking over for a legend

Even though he made four straight NCAA tournaments, the heat of failing to make the second weekend ultimately chased Pastner to Georgia Tech, which is more typical of what happens when a legend leaves and someone else has to deal with unrealistic expectations. 

Just consider: 

• After John Wooden retired, UCLA cycled through five coaches over the next 13 years. 

• Jim Calhoun’s successor, Kevin Ollie, won a shocking national title in 2014 but was responsible for the program falling apart amidst poor performance and NCAA violations.

• There was plenty of drama around Bill Guthridge, Dean Smith’s handpicked successor, who stepped down after three seasons. 

• After Bob Knight’s firing at Indiana, Mike Davis (and several subsequent coaches) had to deal with the drama of being caught between his backward-looking loyalists and those focused on the future. 

• And in more recent vintage, the three years since Jim Boehiem’s retirement have been a disaster for Syracuse, with Adrian Autry fired after going 49-48 with no postseason appearances.  

Jim Livengood, who was Arizona’s athletic director when Lute Olson retired in right before the 2008-09 season amid health ongoing issues, said the year leading up to the announcement followed by a season-long coaching search was among the most difficult situations he had to manage in his career. 

Not only was Livengood dealing with the bizarre circumstance of assistant coach Mike Dunlap refusing to serve as interim coach because he wasn’t offered the full-time job, Russ Pennell ended up leading Arizona to the Sweet 16. Meanwhile, Livengood was trying to pursue some of the biggest names in the profession and felt significant pressure to hire someone who would both excite the fan base and be acceptable to stakeholders who were wary of a significant pivot away from the Olson era. 

He ended up prying Sean Miller out of Xavier, which was considered a big coup for Arizona at the time. Miller made three elite Eights and two Sweet 16s in his first eight years before the FBI inquiry into college basketball and subsequent NCAA investigation derailed the program yet again. 

“I was told by my colleagues probably three or four years prior to Lute getting ill that the transition of who’s going to be that next coach would be the hardest thing in the world,” said Livengood. “And it was really hard. There were so many conversations, so many things nobody understood or knew about. There were people in all different camps. Like the Duke situation, [the result] had everything to do with the person coming in. I don’t think they could have done it if [Krzyzewski] hadn’t been so insistent that Jon be the guy.”

Kevin C. Cox via Getty Images

Why Duke’s plan worked

Duke’s succession plan was nothing if not well laid-out. In January 2021, longtime Duke athletic director Kevin White announced his plan to retire. Four months later, his chief operating officer Nina King was elevated to athletic director. Two weeks after that, Krzyzewski made public that 2021-22 would be his final season, concurrent with an announcement that Scheyer, who had been on staff for seven seasons, would be the head coach-in-waiting and take over the following year. 

At the time, there were critics who felt Krzyzewski’s farewell tour was self-serving. In reality, it was part of an orchestrated sequence of events intended to give both King and Scheyer the best possible chance of a clean handoff while having time to adjust to new roles. And Duke has succeeded where others failed for three reasons. 

The first is resources. Krzyzewski’s retirement took place at the beginning of the NIL era and Duke jumped in with both feet, hiring former Nike and NBA marketing executive Rachel Baker as general manager in June 2022 (long before most programs were doing it). Part of that role was helping organize NIL opportunities, which helped Scheyer get ahead of the game in recruiting right away with the nation’s top-ranked recruiting class.

If anything, NIL taking hold right as Scheyer got the job played to his benefit. Without that infrastructure, it would have been much more difficult to land a steady stream of Dereck Livelys, Cooper Flaggs and Kon Knueppels without having a track record as head coach. 

“Everybody talks about athletics being the front porch of the university but Duke is one of the few that really gets it,” one rival ACC administrator told Yahoo Sports. “They understand what the brand means to the school and weren’t going to let it decline.” 

The second factor is Krzyzewski himself. Though he continued his weekly radio show after retirement and does sporadic media appearances, he is mostly in the background, highly aware of what his presence means and always careful not to overshadow his successor. Krzyzewski rarely attends games but is always available when needed.

“Coach K has given me amazing room to be myself,” Scheyer said at last year’s Final Four. “Really the only advice he gave me from the beginning was to be true to me, to be true to myself. I already knew that. But for him to remind me of that from time to time has been important. I think he understands when he's around just the gravity and the people looking at him and all that. But we've gotten to a point, one, our communication has been the same all the time. I'll tell you for me, in the toughest moments that I've had as a head coach my first three years, the person that I call is him.”

And the third factor is that Scheyer has proven to be a highly effective coach. No matter how much talent he has amassed thanks to the Duke brand and NIL organization, going 69-6 over the past two seasons does not happen by accident. He has given cynics no reason to question his ability to organize the program, manage players or trade X-for-O with more experienced coaches.

“Jon Scheyer is clearly a generational talent who was mentored by perhaps the very best coach ever in any sport,” White told Yahoo Sports. “Pretty darn good recipe for high-end success.”

Legends do not always leave a disaster in their wake. Bud Wilkinson’s retirement at Oklahoma opened the door for another seminal figure to follow in Barry Switzer. Though there were some turbulent moments after Adolph Rupp was pushed into retirement, Joe B. Hall won a national title in 1978 amidst a long run of success. And despite the significant pain and hard feelings between Bobby Bowden and Florida State when the school finally forced him out, the coach-in-waiting plan with Jimbo Fisher was ultimately validated when he won a national title in 2013. 

But in the entire history of college sports, it’s hard to find a situation with blowup potential that was navigated as well as this one. All Scheyer needs is a national title — and it’s probably just a matter of time at this point. 

“I think it’s a credit to everybody involved,” Phillips said. “It’s a credit to Coach K knowing he was getting ready to retire and preparing Jon. There was a strategy behind it, but that doesn’t mean it’s going to work out. The person who deserves the most credit is Jon Scheyer. To understand the assignment and be incredibly comfortable with who he is and understand that he was not going to be Mike Krzyzewski 2.0 takes incredible maturity.”

The Miami Dolphins are signing former Atlanta Falcons linebacker Ronnie Harrison to a one-year contract, according to a report from ESPN's Adam Schefter. Harrison appeared in 10 games the Falcons last season, recording 29 tackles (20 solo), two sacks and two passes defended.

The former third-round pick has spent eight seasons in the NFL, playing for the Jacksonville Jaguars, Cleveland Browns and Indianapolis Colts before signing with Atlanta in 2025. Harrison entered the league as a defensive back but was converted to a full-time linebacker role last season.

Since being drafted in 2018, Harrison has appeared in 94 games (52 starts), recording 274 tackles (181 solo), 8.5 sacks and seven interceptions. The versatile linebacker can provide depth for the cash-strapped Dolphins next season.

Miami has signed a few other former Falcons, including kicker Zane Gonzalez and punter Bradley Pinion. On the flip side, Atlanta hired former Dolphins special teams coordinator Craig Aukerman and signed former Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.

Dolphins are signing former Falcons free-agent linebacker Ronnie Harrison to a oneayear deal, per source.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 25, 2026

The Falcons have lost a few other front-seven defenders thus far in NFL free agency. Linebacker Kaden Elliss signed a three-year deal with the New Orleans Saints and edge rusher Arnold Ebiketie landed a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Follow each Falcons free-agent signing and departure using our NFL free agency live tracker.

This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons: LB Ronnie Harrison to sign with Dolphins

Most of the league doesn’t play until tomorrow, and the Jays don’t open their season until Friday, but rosters still have to be finalized and so we’re getting some news this afternoon:

• Ben Nicholson-Smith reports that Rule 5 pick Spencer Miles has made the roster. Miles looked pretty good this spring, but it’s still amazing to see a guy with 14.2 career minor league innings in the bigs. The team probably wanted to keep a long reliever with injuries forcing them to start the season with Eric Lauer in the rotation, but Miles is talented and has to stick or he offered back to the Giants. They chose upside over short term roster fit.
• Shortstop Leo Jimenez has been designated for assignment. There’s a good chance that that marks the end of his time in the Blue Jays organization, as other teams will be interested in taking a look at his contact ability and up the middle defence. Jimenez signed out of Panama as a 16 year old back in July of 2017. He played most days down the stretch in 2024, posing league average offensive numbers with defence that graded out below average at shortstop but above at second. Injuries derailed his 2025 campaign, though, and he didn’t have a great spring while Josh Kasevich, his likely longer term successor in the backup shortstop role, raked.

With those moves, the Opening Day 26-man roster should just about be set:

Rotation: Dylan Cease, Kevin Gausman, Cody Ponce, Max Scherzer, Eric Lauer

Bullpen: Jeff Hoffman, Tyler Rogers, Louis Varland, Brendon Little (LHP), Mason Fluharty (LHP), Braydon Fisher, Spencer Miles, and one of Chase Lee or Tommy Nance

Catcher: Alejandro Kirk, Tyler Heinemann

Infield: Vladimir Guerrero jr. (1B), Ernie Clement (2B), Kazuma Okamoto (3B), Andres Gimenez (SS)

Outfield: Addison Barger (RF), Daulton Varsho (CF), Jesus Sanchez (LF)

Designated Hitter: George Springer

Bench: Myles Straw, Nathan Lukes, Davis Schneider

Have to say, while I hate to lose a talented young player like Jimenez, that’s a mighty fine looking roster to my eye. Let me know why I’m wrong in the comments.

It is hard to keep Augusta out of mind.

The PGA Tour has made it to the Texas swing following all sorts of fun in Florida. Cameron Young won the most coveted title at the Players Championship, but all sorts of players made strides as the first major championship of the year approaches.

The first major championship. That’s a small way of saying the Masters. No big deal.

Sam Burns is living in the now and the present

All events on the PGA Tour season matter. When it comes time for Tour Championship time its players look back at every event as their full and total resume.

But it can be difficult to focus on the moment when one of a Masters ilk lurks around the corner. It is human nature to let your eyes wander to the greatest tournament that golf has to offer, but you have to take care of business that is in front of you first.

This juxtaposition fascinates me and I was curious how one of the best golfers in the world handles it. Sam Burns held a meet and greet at Raising Cane’s in Houston ahead of this week’s Texas Children’s Open, he even hopped behind the counter to take some orders, and I was able to ask him for his thoughts on the subject.

It should come as no surprise that Sam tries to balance the present and the future. This is the proper way to handle things, after all. Tunnel vision is necessary on the PGA Tour and if you don’t have it then you are going to struggle.

“I’m excited for this season. We always have a great turnout with fans and I’m looking forward to being back and getting out there this year,” said Burns. “It’s been an up and down season, but I feel like my game is trending in the right direction.” As part of his preparation week, Burns emphasized the importance of getting comfortable on the course and settling into a rhythm ahead of competition. “In terms of preparation for these tournaments, we usually get here early in the week, learn the course and make sure everything is ready for Thursday,” said Burns. “I went out and played the course earlier and it’s in great shape. I’m excited to get out there.”  

All golfers, even amateurs, know how unforgiving the game can be. If you start trying to think or do too much, it will bite you and in a pretty unforgiving sort of way.

In the spirit of generosity to counteract golf’s bitter nature I wanted to know where this idea can be most effectively combatted. We have all been on the course and thought to ourselves… “if I could just do this.“

What is that “this”, though? What is your this? What is Sam Burns’?

It was fascinating how Sam Burns would guarantee that his off-the-course happenings are proper if he could wave a magic wand over any single thing. Being in the right state of mind provides such a value for life beyond golf so this certainly makes senses as a logical answer.

For what it’s worth Sam seems to be in that type of center these days. He finished T13 at the Players and inside of the top 10 (T6) earlier this season at Pebble Beach.

Perhaps off-the-course routines are working then. I would imagine that there is a lot of Raising Cane’s involved for him (there is at least for me). The company does such a great job connecting major sports moments to its restaurants, similar to how Sam is connecting off-the-course peace to what happens inside of the ropes.

We will all be watching this week. And in Augusta.

2026 Premier League Darts Night 8 draw, match predictions and 3 storylines to watch in Berlin originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Premier League of Darts heads to Berlin this week for Night 8.

After this week, we'll have officially reached the halfway point, and the race to grab a play-off position will be on.

2026 Premier League Darts Night 8 Berlin draw

Here is the draw for the quarterfinal round on Night 8 of the 2026 PL.

MORE: 2026 Premier League Darts schedule, scores, results and updated table

Night 8 - Mercedes-Benz Arena, Berlin (March 26)

• Jonny Clayton vs. Josh Rock     
• Luke Humphries vs. Michael van Gerwen     
• Luke Littler vs. Stephen Bunting     
• Gerwyn Price vs. Gian van Veen

2026 Premier League Darts table ahead of Night 8

* = one or more wins were credited via advancing against a player who withdrew

MORE: 2026 Premier League of Darts: Get to know the 8 participants

Night 8 match predictions

Here are my predictions for a stacked slate on Night 8.

*Semifinals and final listed below are my predictions based on the quarterfinals

Quarterfinal 1: Jonny Clayton vs. Josh Rock

Winner: Jonny Clayton, 6-3

A glance at the current PL table will help you realize the vast difference in PL campaigns between these two players.

Rock has yet to win a quarterfinal match, while Clayton has won six out of his seven quarterfinal matches.

Even with that in mind, Rock is a great player who has the skillset to win this match, but Clayton has been very reliable, and barring a significant increase in performance from Rock, this should be Clayton's to win.

Quarterfinal 2: Luke Humphries vs. Michael van Gerwen

Winner: Luke Humphries, 6-5

Expect this to be a close match, as both players have had positive appearances recently.

Humphries most notably won on the Euro Tour last weekend, and actually played MVG en route to that title, beating him 7-2 in the semifinal.

After a period of struggle, MVG seems to be turning a page, but Humphries has played great in recent months himself, so MVG will have a tough task this week.

MORE: PDC darts players to soar up rankings in 2026

Quarterfinal 3: Luke Littler vs. Stephen Bunting

Winner: Luke Littler, 6-3

We were treated to a high-quality affair when Littler and Bunting each averaged over 104 last week in their quarterfinal match.

They'll face off once again in the same round, and I expect a very similar result.

Littler had a rare early exit on the Euro Tour this past weekend and will look to get a more convincing nightly win than he did last week, when he had to complete a comeback in the Night 7 final after trailing 0-5 to Gerwyn Price.

Quarterfinal 4: Gerwyn Price vs. Gian van Veen

Winner: Gerwyn Price, 6-4

There's a lot of uncertainty around van Veen, who has missed a couple of events after withdrawing due to kidney stones.

It's still up in the air whether or not he'll play on Thursday, although he seems to be on course to play.

Price is in good form, and with van Veen's situation in mind, Price should be the stronger player with van Veen's current circumstances.

Semifinal 1: Jonny Clayton vs. Luke Humphries

Winner: Luke Humphries, 6-4

Clayton and Humphries have already played four times in 2026, with each player winning twice, and Humphries winning the last two matches.

I think Humphries will continue his streak against Clayton, as he's beaten Clayton twice in the last week, but he might need an average in at least the high 90s to defeat Clayton.

MORE: Every 170 'Big Fish' checkout in 2026 Premier League Darts

Semifinal 2: Luke Littler vs. Gerwyn Price

Winner: Gerwyn Price, 6-5

Price nearly beat Littler in the final last week, but couldn't hold on despite having several match darts in a game he led 5-0 in.

He's more than capable of taking down Littler, and will look to be composed this week to take down Littler this time around.

Final: Luke Humphries vs. Gerwyn Price

Winner: Gerwyn Price, 6-5

A win against Littler in the semifinals would be big for Price, and he'd have to potentially take down the other Luke in the final.

A 109 average in the semifinals last week was enough for Price to beat Humphries 6-1.

This time around, the scoreline should be closer, but as always, I like Price's chances against any opponent on any given night.

MORE: 2026 Premier League Darts prize money explained

Three storylines to watch during Night 8

Here are the main storylines to look out for on Night 8.

How will Gian van Veen play after his absence last week?

Van Veen will likely play on Thursday, but how well he'll perform is up in the air after being hospitalized last week due to kidney stones.

Can Rock pull off an upset against Clayton?

The pressure is on Rock, as he's still searching for his first PL win, but he has the tough task of playing league leader Jonny Clayton in the quarterfinals.

Will MVG get back on track?

Van Gerwen got a bye last week, but played well in the semifinals against Littler in a narrow loss. After a positive run on the Euro Tour this past weekend, he'll look to make a quality run in Berlin.

More darts articles:

• Luke Littler contract details: Teenage phenom signs richest endorsement deal in darts history
• PDC announces darts schedule for 2026: World Championship, Premier League and more
• Ranking the best PDC Darts moments from 2025: 9-darters to shocking upsets
• 7 darts players who could be in Premier League Darts one day
• Watch: Luke Humphries hits epic 9-darter at 2026 World Masters
• International qualification routes for 2026/27 PDC Darts World Championship revealed

The NFL Draft is a little over a month away, and the Raiders will hold the 1st overall pick (1st round), 36th overall (2nd round), 67th overall (3rd round), 102nd, 117th, and 134th overall in the 4th round, 175th (5th round), 185th and 208th in the sixth round, and 219th in the seventh round. The Raiders hold 10 overall draft picks, among the most in the NFL this year, despite missing out on the 14th overall pick from the Ravens. The Raiders have consistently been projected as taking a nose tackle highly in the 2026 draft, the Raiders likely won’t have a true 0-Tech on the field all that often, as teams don’t sit in base assignments more than 24-28% of the time based on the last three seasons. Additionally, Las Vegas will have a 1-shade nose tackle more often than a 0-Tech, requiring their “nose tackle” to be more reliant on quick inside leverage, instead of pure mass that can clog gaps. I broke down what exactly to expect from the Raiders DL here that will also outline what the Raiders are going to have on their roster already.

New defensive coordinator Rob Leonard is likely to have an adaptation of both Mike MacDonald’s & Brian Flores systems, after coaching under both. Last season, Seattle ran a true )-Tech/Nose just 61 times, and they had a 1-Tech on field just 103 snaps last season. That has slightly changed from MacDonald having a nose 101 times in 2024 and a 1-Tech 214 times in 2024 as well, though he’s held firm around 70-78 and 100-124 majority of his NFL career. Taking a look at the Vikings, they ran a true nose tackle 119 snaps, with a 1-Tech 98 snaps. Flores has consistently held between 102-155 snaps with a 0-Tech, and 100-134 with a 1-Tech in his career. Rob Leonard has never ran a true 3-4 front, and it’s likely that front isn’t going to be seen often with how often the Raiders look to run a versatile defense, will rotate into 4 man, 5 man, over, under, and bear fronts. Additionally, they’ll likely live out of a nickel defense which puts a traditional 4 man front majority of the time, so the impact that a true NT will be played often is likely limited, and a bigger look is towards more athletic 1-2 tech’s with the ability to slide between 0, and another key factor is their versatility to work outside of 1/2 tech as Leonard has consistently rotated his DL between multiple techniques to tap into certain situation and packages. Las Vegas is going to be heavy with an attack-react front, requiring the DL to get upfield quickly and get into the LOS/backfield, comparative to a react-attack front that is more patient approached and requires defensive lineman to set up blockers and then get to the backfield. Either are effective, but with his history coming from Patrick Graham, Brian Flores, and Mike MacDonald who have all ran mostly attack fronts, it’s hard to see that changing for Leonard. The goal for the Raiders will be getting one-gap principles that allow the defensive line to hold gaps, fire upfield, and get to the defender in the backfield, something that Las Vegas did exceptionally well with last season ranking 7th in run defense, 1st in TFL, and having the 5th best run defense per EPA/play in the NFL under Leonard’s first year as run game coordinator.

Taking a very quick look at what Leonard has had with his defensive line, that will also require athleticism based on his high rates of stunts and twists where in his career, his defensive line’s have never ranked lower than 10th in defensive line movement rates (it sounds made up, it’s not I promise). Leonard loves looping outside pass rushers inside to create free lanes with double teamed IDL, sim pressures, and working to create 1-on-1 opportunities for blitzing linebackers, which with the additions of Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean will happen quite often. Through his time with the Raiders defensive line, Leonard did run a 0-Tech on 155-188 snaps between 2023 and 2025, with the most coming in 2022 with now Ravens nose tackle John Jenkins. Additionally, they have ran a 1-tech nearly 245 snaps or so in each season under Leonard, a trend that continued to his days in Baltimore. With all this in mind, the main goal of the article was to detail NFL draft defensive lineman that will fit what he’s looking for, so with that here we go:

*Based on the article I linked above, you can see two key things, and if you didn’t read that it’s alright. Adam Butler has spent 19% of his career snaps at 0-Tech & 9% at 1-Tech. Additionally, JJ Pegues played nearly 35% of his collegiate snaps at a 0-Tech and 8% at 1-Tech. Something that Las Vegas didn’t utilize last season *

Traditional 0-1 Tech & Cole Brevard:

Domonique “Big Citrus” Orange, Iowa State (Consensus: Early 3rd)

HT: 6’4 | WT: 325 | Career: 66 tackles, 7 TFL, 1 sack, 2 PBU, 38 run stops, 8.9% pass rush win rate

• 0-Tech: 1078 snaps
• 1-Tech: 61 snaps
• 2-Tech: 198 snaps
• 3-Tech: 78 snaps
• 4-Tech: 188 snaps
• 7-Tech: 52 snaps

Orange is the traditional 0-Tech for the modern NFL, though he can shade inside to a 1/2 technique and does provide the versatility that the Raiders are likely looking for as well. Orange is very limited as a pass rusher, with just a 8.9% pass rush win rate in his career, and he doesn’t show a ton of technique that will adapt to the NFL making him a developmental prospect in that game. As a run defender, he’s elite, and arguably the best in the class. Orange has phenomenal size and strength, anchors well, and understands the run game extremely well.

Dontay “The Godfather” Corleone, Cincinnati (Consensus: Mid 4th)

HT: 6’1 | WT: 335 | Career: 123 tackles, 17 TFL, 9.5 sacks, FR, 57 run stops, 6.8% pass rush win rate

• 0-Tech: 1174 snaps
• 1-Tech: 111 snaps
• 2-Tech: 188 snaps
• 3-Tech: 97 snaps
• 4-Tech: 22 snaps

Corleone has had his ups and downs, but remains one of the premier run defending first players in the class. His pass rush will be very limited in the NFL, likely similar to that of Andrew Billings/John Jenkins for Raiders fans, but Corleone is going to make a mark as a run defender. He has a strong lower half, violent active hands, good core strength, and understands the run game well. He’ll likely be a premier run defender, but his pass rush limits him from being a high pick and being in a front that’s attack based.

Keeshawn Silver, USC (Consensus: Mid 6th)

HT: 6’4 | WT: 330 | Career: 67 tackles, 5 TFL, 2 sacks, 24 run stops, 7.4% pass rush win rate

• 0-Tech: 454 snaps
• 1-Tech: 234 snaps
• 2-Tech: 245 snaps
• 3-Tech: 55 snaps
• 4-Tech: 19 snaps

Silver isn’t a true nose tackle, but he’s also not a multi tech with his true snaps mainly being at 0-2 technique. Silver has a massive frame, but struggles to anchor, can get washed out in the run game, and hasn’t been as good as he should be in college. Silver does show some upside, but as an older prospect you’d likely want more. He’s an active pass rusher, quick off the line of scrimmage and could be a nice late round target for Las Vegas. –

Multi 0/1/2i/3 Tech:

Kayden McDonald, Ohio State (Consensus: Late 1st/Early 2nd)

HT: 6’3 | WT: 325 | Career: 85 tackles, 11 TFL, 3 sacks, 3 PBU, 2 FF, 40 run stops, 3.8% pass rush win rate

• 0-Tech: 197 snaps
• 1-Tech: 18 snaps
• 2-Tech: 318 snaps
• 3-Tech: 140 snaps
• 4-Tech: 7 snaps
• 28 snaps various (5-7 tech)

I, personally, am not extremely high on McDonald and this is someone who had Kenneth Grant as a top 10 prospect last year and loves run stuffing defensive tackles. McDonald is fairly athletic, and likely will benefit from a system putting him more in a 1-Tech role fully, but he’s played at nose and the film has been average. He has good strength, good hand combat skills, but looks very bleh in his athleticism at times, and can get pushed around. He provides very little as a pass rusher, and there’s a serious chance he provides very little as a nose tackle. For a team, like Las Vegas taking a limited pass rusher highly in the class is a risk, even with the premier run defense skills that McDonald could translate.

Christen Miller, Georgia (Consensus: Late 1st/Early 2nd)

HT: 6’4 | WT: 321 | Career: 64 tackles, 11.5 TFL, 4.5 sacks, PBU, 41 run stops, 11.1% pass rush win rate

• 0-Tech: 198 snaps
• 1-Tech: 63 snaps
• 2-Tech: 313 snaps
• 3-Tech: 338 snaps
• 4-Tech: 143 snaps
• 5-Tech: 12 snaps

My DT1 this year, and that’s not going to change. Miller is exceptional, he’s a quick, violent, fluid mover in space, has an excellent first step, can bend well and shows almost EDGE like movement at 6’4/310 pounds. Miller has great hand skills, understands both the run and pass well, works well to get through double teams, and his strength is probably among the top of the class all things considered. Miller doesn’t have experience as a true 0/1 tech which could limit him for Las Vegas, but his experience playing the rest of the DL in a versatile multi front defense is valuable. There’s a real world for Miller to have multiple 8+ sack seasons, and if he’s available at 36 it’s almost a no brainer.

Lee Hunter, Texas Tech(Consensus: Mid 2nd)

HT: 6’4 | WT: 330 | Career: 172 tackles, 32 TFL, 7.5 sacks, FF, 41 run stops, 10.5% pass rush win rate

• 0-Tech: 380 snaps
• 1-Tech: 67 snaps
• 2-Tech: 716 snaps
• 3-Tech: 634 snaps
• 4-Tech: 77 snaps
• 5-Tech: 19 snaps

Lee Hunter, the definition of confusing. Hunter is extremely strong, has great hand movement, is active in pass rush, his lower body power is among the best in the class, and he does move decently well on film. The issue is, he tested terribly (that sounds bad I know) but it’s also a showing on film at times where quicker inteiror lineman latch on and get to the spot first pretty much putting Hunter out of the play. Athletic centers are able to drive him around the spot and despite his anchor/strength there’s not much you can do when you’re out leveraged and put in a spot you can’t get out of your break. He’s not a quick player either, Hunter shows average burst but does have some movement laterally (again if he gets there first). Hunter should translate with decent pass rush production vs specific offensive lineman, where he can win power on power, which he’ll win majority of the time. He’s a tough player to eval, and he’ll benefit from a move more towards a true one-gap DT where he can play gap control, and is put in a spot to be at the POA first before the lineman. I like Hunter, there’s just a lot of questions around his game, and he’s likely not a very valuable pick inside the top 50 unless you’re extremely comfortable putting him solely as a 0/2 tech and letting things play out.

Cole Brevard, Texas (Consensus: Mid 4th)

HT: 6’3 | WT: 346 | Career: 56 tackles, 9 TFL, 2.5 sacks, 2 FR, 32 run stops, 8.3% pass rush win rate

• 0-Tech: 502 snaps
• 1-Tech: 322 snaps
• 2-Tech: 301 snaps
• 3-Tech: 204 snaps
• 4-Tech: 12 snaps

Brevard, the first nose tackle without a nickname, is sometimes called Darth Vader in Texas interviews, and would probably fair well in the Death Star. Alright, football time now, Brevard is similar to Orange, providing a lot of versatility on the defensive front. For a system looking to attack, Brevard has a quick first step, violent hands, moves extremely well, and can get after the quarterback. He’s a raw prospect, but shows a ton of upside and his run defense will translate immediately.

Landon Robinson, Navy (Consensus: Late 4th)

HT: 6’0 | WT: 287 | Career: 153 tackles, 18.5 TFL, 14.5 sacks, 2 FF, 56 run stops, 8.7% pass rush win rate

• 0-Tech: 261 snaps
• 1-Tech: 312 snaps
• 2-Tech: 454 snaps
• 3-Tech: 487 snaps
• 4-Tech: 146 snaps
• 5-Tech: 20 snaps

Man I love Landon Robinson, the main issues stem from the fact he’s just extremely tiny but he makes up for it in a lot of ways. Robinson has elite athleticism, fire off the ball quickly, shows exceptional ability to understand leverage, low pad level, and he has good strength to be an impact pass rusher. Robinson likley will play that true 3/4 technique in the NFL, and while he likely can’t be a 0/1 in the NFL unless it’s situational, he does have the athleticism and good strength to out perform lineman. Military academies limit how much a player can weigh/lift, and Robinson likely will benefit from getting closer to 300 and keeping his athleticism, something an NFL team will do for him. The true athletic ability, violent play style, and blend of power with a ton of room to grow is intriguing, especially paired with his versatility playing nearly an even split at 2/3 and 0/1 technique.

Darrell Jackson Jr, Florida State (Consensus: Mid 4th)

HT: 6’5 | WT: 337 | Career: 129 tackle, 12 TFL, 7.5 sacks, 2 PBU, FF, 70 run stops, 7.5% pass rush win rate

• 0-Tech: 251 snaps
• 1-Tech: 43 snaps
• 2-Tech: 784 snaps
• 3-Tech: 442 snaps
• 4-Tech: 208 snaps

Jackson has to improve vs the run game, he has the size and strength, but lacks the hand skills, doesn’t play with leverage, and doesn’t really understand the run game either. There’s flashes in his game of being a high end pass rusher, and Jackson shows great movement at his size. He’s quick off the ball, gets to the point of attack quickly, and can utilize his frame to out muscle others. He’s a versatile defender, the issue is until he can defend the run at the rate he needs to at his size, it’s going to be hard to find consistent play time.

Zxavian Harris, Ole Miss (Consensus: Late 4th)

HT: 6’8 | WT: 330 | Career: 123 tackles, 17.5 TFL, 5.5 sacks, INT, 3 PBU, FF, 49 run stops, 6.7% pass rush win rate

• 0-Tech: 206 snaps
• 1-Tech: 52 snaps
• 2-Tech: 445 snaps
• 3-Tech: 463 snaps
• 4-Tech: 189 snaps
• 5-Tech: 79 snaps

Harris is athletic, he’s big, and he commands double/triple teams…. but he doesn’t really do much at times. Harris is productive in his career, and he works best when able to slide around the defensive line, is able to loop and stunt well, but he also struggles to get off blocks largely cause his size. Additionally, for someone of Harris size he naturally will have high pad level and no leverage, but Harris just seems to forget either thing exists and will stand straight up. He shows exceptional lower body strength and his core strength is good, which allows him to bend his hips and dip to try and gain some inside leverage. Additionally, I’d like to see Harris use his size more often and be a threat to knock the ball down at the LOS, which he doesn’t do often and when does is semi late.

Jordan van den Berg, Georgia Tech (Consensus: Mid to Late 5th)

HT: 6’3 | WT: 310 | Career: 93 tackles, 20 TFL, 6.5 sacks, 3 PBU, 2 FF, 33 run stops, 7.5% pass rush win rate

• 0-Tech: 176 snaps
• 1-Tech: 38 snaps
• 2-Tech: 651 snaps
• 3-Tech: 412 snaps
• 4-Tech: 57 snaps

It seems people are coming around to van den Berg after he had a ridiculous pro day with a perfect 10.00 RAS. van den Berg is going to be an intriguing NFL player, he is raw, despite playing since 2021, but he shows a lot of potential upside. He can slide into the nose and play with his anchor, and explosive power, but also has true 6+ sack production potential with his athletic profile. He shows great hip and ankle flexibility, good hand skills, and can with with speed, power, and twitch. van den Berg is raw, he doesn’t really have a true position which lies the issue as he can get moved in the pass game at times. He’s a run first defensive tackle, and you’ll need to develop his pass rush plan, hand skills, and utilize his athleticism more often but if things are properly worked on he can be a foundational defensive lineman for a team (very similar to Tonka Hemingway).

Deven Eastern, Minnesota (Consensus: Late 6th)

HT: 6’6 | WT: 320 | Career: 97 tackles, 12 TFL, 4.5 sacks, 2 FF, 48 run stops, 6.8% pass rush win rate

• 0-Tech: 152 snaps
• 1-Tech: 486 snaps
• 2-Tech: 517 snaps
• 3-Tech: 301 snaps
• 4-Tech: 10 snaps

Eastern is massive, he’s just inconsistent. He shows flashes of using his athletic profile to win as a pass rusher, and has improved over time, but he can also get moved around and just lacks the technique. He plays with good pad level for his size, but lacks any understanding of leverage and can get moved off his spot more often than he should. He’s alright off the ball, shows good initial quickness and burst, but Eastern is an intriguing prospect for his size, experience, and versatility. He’ll benefit greatly being asked to play a main 1/2 technique in the NFL for a 3-4 front that allows him to get upfield quickly and attack the OL.

Traditional 3/4 Tech DT:

Caleb Banks, Florida (Consensus: Mid 2nd)

HT: 6’6 | WT: 330 | Career: 48 tackles, 10.5 TFL, 6.5 sacks, 3 FF, 13 run stops, 10.8% pass rush win rate

• 0-Tech: 38 snaps
• 1-Tech: 12 snaps
• 2-Tech: 132 snaps
• 3-Tech: 485 snaps
• 4-Tech: 253 snaps
• 5-Tech: 24 snaps

At his size, you’d think Banks is a nose, but he’s not, which is interesting. Banks shows a LOT of upside, but he needs to stay healthy having a ton of lower body injuries, which at his size is a concern. Banks plays with good initial quickness, burst, and movement skills. He does well in short area bursts, can play laterally well, and is fairly good vs the run. He’s an active player, consistently makes an impact, and his pass rush upside shows for the NFL where he’s shown the ability to have multiple 8+ sack seasons. The main issues with Banks, are the mentioned injuries, he doesn’t have the best hips and can get pushed when needing to use leverage, and he struggles with athletic IOL that can get under him and utilize leverage. He shows a lot of potential, but the injuries and being 23 years old could turn teams away.

Gracen Halton, Oklahoma (Consensus: Late 2nd to Early 3rd)

HT: 6’2 | WT: 295 | Career: 84 tackles, 17.5 TFL, 9 sacks, 2 FR, 3 FF, 35 run stops, 11.5% pass rush win rate

• 0-Tech: 139 snaps
• 1-Tech: 33 snaps
• 2-Tech: 233 snaps
• 3-Tech: 421 snaps
• 4-Tech: 103 snaps
• 5-Tech: 74 snaps

One of the “gems” of the defensive tackle class, Halton is a pure attack front defensive tackle, he shows elite (and I mean like Aaron Donald level) first step quickness, second step, and lateral burst. Halton flys off the line of scrimmage, gets into the rep quickly, and has good arm length/leverage understanding that allows him to beat the offensive line quickly. He has extremely active violent hands, moves well laterally, and is a premier run defender also. He plays with good leverage, understands the run game, and his hand combat skills will translate to the NFL immediately, where he also shows a good spin and the ability to twist and stunt. Halton is semi undersized, which could limit him, but he’s a true 4/3 technique at the NFL level. Las Vegas needs to add pass rusher and run defenders to their interior, and while Halton is undersized for the traditional 0/1/2 technique, he’s someone you want on the field, and playing for you.

Rayshaun Benny, Michigan (Consensus: Late 3rd)

HT: 6’4 | WT: 305 | Career: 107 tackles, 12 TFL, 4 sacks, 6 PBU, FF, 50 run stops, 8.5% pass rush win rate

• 0-Tech: 28 snaps
• 1-Tech: 13 snaps
• 2-Tech: 284 snaps
• 3-Tech: 628 snaps
• 4-Tech: 208 snaps
• 5-Tech: 75 snaps

If you miss on Halton, Benny is a nice complementary option. He’s a run first defensive tackle, and his pass rush is coming along, but he’ll need to continue to develop more pass rush moves, utilize his athletic profile, and simply develop. Michigan prioritizes stopping the run, and Benny does that well, he has good leverage and strength, anchors well, has consistently lower body drive, and will be an impact defender. Benny is a nice mid round target, and while he’s played mainly 3-Tech at Michigan, he’s going to be able to slide into the 2-Tech role at the NFL level, and be productive.

Chris McClellan, Missouri (Consensus: Late 3rd)

HT: 6’4, WT: 323 | Career: 113 tackles, 17 TFL, 10.5 sacks, 4 PBU, 57 run stops, 7.4% pass rush win rate

• 0-Tech: 98 snaps
• 1-Tech: 47 snaps
• 2-Tech: 384 snaps
• 3-Tech: 886 snaps
• 4-Tech: 179 snaps
• 5-Tech: 11 snaps

McClellan is massive, and he moves well for his size, he’s just overall a raw prospect who will need to adapt to the NFL with more technique, instead of the reliance on size/strength he currently has. McClellan shows good leverage, quickness, and can be a sparkplug at the LOS. He is versatile, and should see more snaps towards a 2/4 technique that allows him to tap into his strength/quickness instead of 3-Tech where he can get pushed around against double teams. McClellan has the ability to work off double teams, and he stacks/sheds well, but he’ll need time and development, though he shows a lot of upside.

Gary Smith:

Gary Smith III, UCLA (Consensus: Mid 7th)

HT: 6’2 | WT: 340 | Career: 111 tackles, 9.5 TFL, 4.5 sacks, 58 run stops, 5.8% pass rush win rate

• 0-Tech: 167 snaps
• 1-Tech: 92 snaps
• 2-Tech: 746 snaps
• 3-Tech: 401 snaps
• 4-Tech: 68 snaps
• 5-Tech: 16 snaps

Smith missed all of 2024, returned in 2025, and well he maintained what he is. Smith is a quality run defender, he does well with his anchor and lower body power, has exceptional size, plays gap control, has good arm length, a knack for understanding the run, and his leverage ability is premier as well. Smith won’t be an impact pass rusher, he lacks a lot of traits, and is a very average athlete. The issue comes with, Smith hasn’t really played a true nose tackle role like he’ll need to in the NFL, and while he can adapt it’s different to play a 1 gap when you’re at 0 tech with limited help to your side. Smith shows good traits, can be an NFL run defender at nose, and likely will be an intriguing late round pickup or UDFA, as teams work to adapt him to that 0 Tech role. Additionally, he’ll need to show that the average athleticism won’t limit him, as he’s semi slow off the LOS.

Other DT:

I didn’t touch on some of these, just since they see a very inconsistent fit, that said if you want me to breakdown any of them, leave a comment or DM me on Twitter and I will get to them very quickly:

• Peter Woods, Clemson
• Kaleb Proctor, SE Louisiana (really really really fun player)
• Albert Regis, Texas A&M
• Zane Durant, Penn State
• Bryson Eason, Tennessee
• Nick Barrett, SCAR
• Skyler Gill-Howard, Texas Tech
• Tyler Onyedim, Texas A&M
• James Thompson Jr, Illinois
• Jackie Marshall, Baylor
• Damonic Williams, Oklahoma
• Brandon Cleveland, NC State (top of my favorite UDFA target)
• Cameron Ball, Arkansas
• David Gusta, Kentucky
• Tim Keenan, Alabama

Home runs are a popular MLB player prop to bet because the odds are long. A small wager on a player to hit a home run can yield a juicy payout. However, they’re justifiably priced to entice wagers because it’s difficult for a player to hit home runs, and even in a slugfest, there will be only a few homers.

Bettors should keep in mind they’ll place more losing wagers on home run bets than winning ones. Still, carefully considered home run bets can prove fruitful, and the following two players have a desirable blend of likelihood to hit a homer and the betting odds offered, making them appealing bets for MLB Opening Day.

Best Home Run Bets

Gunnar Henderson (Baltimore Orioles - SS)

Over 0.5 Home Runs (+334) at DraftKings Sportsbook

Gunnar Henderson ripped 28 homers in 622 plate appearances in 2023, surged to 37 home runs in 719 plate appearances in 2024 and dipped to 17 homers in 651 plate appearances last year. The massive fall in power was unexpected and unfortunate, but he’s still young and hit the ball hard.

The left-handed-hitting shortstop’s average exit velocity in 2025 was 92.1 mph, only slightly below his career mark of 92.3 mph, and higher than his average exit velocity of 92.0 mph in 2023, when he clobbered 28 home runs. His barrel rate and hard-hit rate were career lows of 8.5% and 49.0%, neither of which was alarmingly low.

Even in a down year by his lofty standards, Henderson excelled with the platoon advantage at home. He slugged nine homers in 221 plate appearances against right-handed pitching in his homer-friendly home ballpark.

Oriole Park at Camden Yards underwent renovations before the 2025 season, and its 121 park factor for homers last year was the second-highest mark in MLB. It’s an ideal venue for launching long-balls.

Henderson’s matchup for Opening Day is also favorable. Joe Ryan’s 1.37 home runs per nine innings (HR/9) allowed last year was tied for the second-highest mark among the Opening Day probable starting pitchers. Furthermore, Ryan ceded seven homers and 1.54 HR/9 to 177 left-handed batters faced on the road last season.

The weather is also working in Henderson’s favor to hit a dinger on Thursday afternoon, with the wind blowing out and the temperature in the low 70s. Henderson can start his bounce-back in the homer department in his first game of the year by ripping a round-tripper, and his +334 odds offered to hit a home run at DraftKings are compelling enough to bet.

Max Muncy (Los Angeles Dodgers - 3B)

Over 0.5 Home Runs (+371) at DraftKings Sportsbook

Max Muncy’s calling card is his patience and his power. The left-handed slugger hit 19 homers in 388 plate appearances last year, his age-34 campaign. His power and ability to put a charge into the ball haven’t gone anywhere.

Among 251 qualified hitters in 2025, Muncy was tied for 54th in barrels per plate appearance rate (8.2%), 41st in barrels per batted-ball-event rate (13.6%), tied for 61st in fly-ball and line drive exit velocity (95.2 mph), tied for 51st in launch-angle sweet-spot rate (37.4%) and 21st in steepest launch angle (19.6 degrees). Muncy also had a 48.1% fly-ball rate. He hits the ball hard and in the air often, which is a recipe for home runs.

He did his best home run work with the platoon advantage at home. Muncy hit 13 of his 19 home runs last year in 174 plate appearances against right-handed pitching at home. He also added two homers in 35 plate appearances against lefties at home.

Muncy’s ability to reach the seats often at home shouldn’t come as a surprise. Dodger Stadium had the highest park factor (137) for homers last year, and it has the highest park factor (127) for homers over the past three years.

Muncy also has the best matchup to hit a homer among the Opening Day starting pitchers. Zac Gallen’s 1.45 HR/9 allowed last season was the highest mark among Thursday’s probable pitchers. In addition, Gallen had only an 18.5% strikeout rate and allowed 1.38 HR/9 to 200 left-handed batters faced on the road last year. Muncy’s +371 odds at DraftKings Sportsbook to homer on Opening Day are enticing.

The MLB opens regular season play on Wednesday night, as the New York Yankees go on the road to take on the San Francisco Giants. Tonight's clash marks the start of the 2026 season, followed up by an 11-game slate on Thursday.

Tonight's matchup presents plenty of storylines. The Yankees are looking to avenge their ALDS loss at the hands of the Toronto Blue Jays to put an end to their 2025 campaign, while the Giants are looking to end a five-season long playoff drought. This AL-NL showdown will feature a number of star players, including the likes of Aaron Judge, Willy Adames and Logan Webb. Such players will present favorable Underdog props for Wednesday night. Let's look at four of the top props for tonight's game:

Aaron Judge Over 2.5 Hits + Runs + RBI

The reigning back-to-back AL MVP is coming off another dominant campaign in 2025. Judge posted his second consecutive 50-home run campaign, hitting .331 from the plate with 137 runs, 179 hits and 114 RBIs. The seven-time All-Star has performed well on Opening Day throughout his career and is entering the 2026 season regarded as the top asset in fantasy baseball. Considering his success against Logan Webb historically, there's plenty of reason to believe in a 2.5-Hit/Run/RBI line for one of baseball's top statsheet-stuffers.

Rafael Devers Over 1.5 Hits + Runs + RBI

Entering his first full season in San Francisco, expectations are high for three-time All-Star Rafael Devers. The star third-baseman is coming off a stellar campaign in 2025, posting a .252 average, recording 99 runs, 153 hits, 35 home runs and 109 RBIs, his highest single-season mark since 2021. He also finished the year with an OBP of .372, marking a new career-high. Devers has struggled on Opening Day in the past, but has found success against Max Fried, posting three hits, a homer and two RBIs over nine at-bats against the Yankees ace.

Logan Webb Over 5.5 Strikeouts

Logan Webb is slated to make his fifth straight Opening Day start for the Giants on Wednesday night. Webb led the majors with 207 innings pitched in 2025, closing the year with a 3.22 ERA over 34 starts. He allowed 210 hits, the most of all majors pitchers, but mustered 224 total strikeouts, leading the National League. Webb has struggled against Judge in the Yankees in the past, but has performed well on Opening Day in the past. In 2023, Webb managed 12 strikeouts against Judge and the Yankees in the opener despite a tough loss.

Cody Bellinger Over 1.5 Hits + Runs + RBI

Former NL MVP Cody Bellinger will gear up for his second season with the Yankees this year, coming off an efficient performance in 2025. Bellinger mustered a 5.1 WAR, his best mark since the 2019 season, racking up 89 runs, 160 hits and 29 homers. He added 98 RBIs while hitting .272 and is poised to carry such momentum into the 2026 season. Bellinger has performed inconsistently against Webb in the past, but has a history of notable performances on Opening Day. I'm confident he'll hit his Underdog prop in the first game of the season.

Read More Fantasy On SI News

• Kawhi Leonard, Scottie Barnes, and 3 Other Underdog Props For Clippers vs. Raptors
• Perfect Fantasy Baseball (DFS) Showdown Lineup for Yankees-Giants Opening Day
• Ranking the Top 10 Fantasy Baseball Offenses Beginning the 2026 MLB Season
• Sandy Alcantara Finally Rises from his Fantasy Baseball Grave in this MLB Mock Trade

This article was originally published on www.si.com/onsi/fantasy as Aaron Judge, Logan Webb And 2 Other Underdog Props For Yankees Vs. Giants.

Jim Craig was joined by former Celtic stars Frank McAvennie and Peter Grant at Grace’s earlier today for the launch of a campaign to build a statue for the Lisbon Lion in Govan, where the Lisbon Lion grew up…

Jim Craig was helping to launch a campaign to build a statue in Govan where he spent his early years growing up at the Glasgow Irish Centre. Photo social media

The campaign by the Jim Craig Govan Foundation was launched today with the objective being to erect a statue of Scottish football legend Jim Craig in Govan. Chairman of The Jim Craig Govan Foundation, Matt McGlone, delivered a presentation of the Foundation’s aims and was joined by sculptor John McKenna.

May 21st 2017, Celtic Park, ; Scottish Premiership Celtic FC vs Hearts; Tom Boyd, Jim Craig and Willie Wallace stand behind the trophy Photo Vagelis Georgariou

The 82-year-old Celtic legend got arguably the most important assist in Celtic’s illustrious unbroken history when he squared the ball from right to left at the edge of the Inter Milan penalty area in the European Cup Final for Tommy Gemmell to score the Celtic equaliser. The Celts went onto win 2-1 with Stevie Chalmers getting the winning in the closing stages.

Ex Celtic player and Lisbon Lion Jim Craig is seen during the Premiership match between Celtic and Kilmarnock at Celtic Park on November 09, 2025 (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Jim Craig made 231 appearances for Celtic, winning seven league titles, four Scottish Cups, three League Cups and of course the European Cup in Lisbon on 25th May 1967.

Currently a club Ambassador, Jim is also a leading Celtic historian and of course he spend his working career as a dentist, finishing up working in Stirling. Jim Craig grew up in Govan and that’s where the statue will be located.

Tommy Gemmell statue unveiling at the Lisbon Lion’s hometown of Craigneuk. 28 February 2026. Photographs by Vagelis Georgariou

Bobby Lennox has a wonderful statue in Saltcoats, Billy McNeill has one in Bellshill and also outside of Celtic Park at the bottom of the Celtic Way and more recently Tommy Gemmell’s statue was unveiled in his hometown of Craigneuk in Lanarkshire.

Celtic legend and Lisbon Lion Jim Craig. Photo The Celtic Wiki

Speaking to STV this afternoon Jim Craig said it’s a real privilege to think that a statue is being planned in his honour.

“I never thought I would be immortalised in picture, never mind in stone,” the Celtic legend said. “I’ve been fortunate to go through my life as a Lisbon Lion where I get treated very well wherever I go – apart from Ibrox I suppose.

“It’s a privilege to hear there’s a statue being done. Everyone played their part in the iconic team. I feel so lucky to have played with them,”Jim Craig said.

Find out more about this brilliant innovative over at  jimcraiggovanfoundation.co.uk

European Cup Final Celtic v Inter Milan The Celtic team line up, Mannschaftsbild, Totale before defeating Inter Milan to win the European Cup. Back Row Left to Right: Jim Craig; Tommy Gemmell; Ronnie Simpson; Billy McNeill; Bobby Murdoch; and John Clarke. In front, left to right: Stevie Chalmers; Willie Wallace, Jimmy Johnstone; Bobby Lennox; and Bertie Auld. 27 May 1967. Portugal Photo TopFoto (IMAGO) – The Celtic Star.

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Former Chelsea player Gus Poyet has warned Liam Rosenior could be in trouble, as great managers before him have been sacked for bad runs. 

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Gus Poyet is a straight shooter, and always provides good copy. He’s been speaking exclusively to Bobby Vincent of Football.London, on the subject of Liam Rosenior.

According to Poyet, Rosenior is in big trouble. Even the biggest coaches have been shown the door at Stamford Bridge after some bad results, and the Blues are now 4 games without a win.

Poyet warns Rosenior is in a “difficult situation”

“If you lose four in a row at Chelsea, it doesn’t matter who you are; you can ask [Jose] Mourinho, [Carlo] Ancelotti, [Antonio] Conte, [Luiz Felipe] Scolari, all of the managers that have some problems and got sacked,” Poyet pointed out.

“I think that Liam had to take the job because it was unexpected – you must take it, you can’t say no. People might say, ‘maybe he should have waited a few more years’, no, when Chelsea come to you, you have to take it. Then how do you deal with that? Now, losing four games in a row, it’s a problem. Difficult situation for Liam.”

In other news…

Matt Law was on the London is Blue podcast this week and couldn’t believe something he’d seen in the PSG game a week ago.

Law also had some thoughts about Trevoh Chalobah’s loss, and some insight into when the defender could be back.

If you enjoy Chelsea News coverage and want to see more of it, add us as a preferred source on Google to make us a favourite and see more of our content.

Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:

Manchester United fans who are still dreaming about the return of Marcus Rashford have now been given a glimmer of hope.

The Englishman is spending the current campaign on loan at Barcelona, who have the option to sign him for €30 million in June.

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Although Raphinha and Lamine Yamal remain Hansi Flick’s main choices on the wings, the 28-year-old has been an important option for the German manager. And yet his fate remains undecided.

Man Utd not concerned with Barcelona’s bargaining tactics in Rashford negotiations

In recent weeks, there have been contacts between Rashford’s agents and Barcelona, who are inclined to keep the player beyond the current campaign.

However, the Catalan giants are said to be reluctant to pay €30 million. The club is thus hoping to reopen negotiations with Man Utd, requesting a discount.

Recent reports insisted that the Red Devils have no desire to renegotiate new terms, insisting on collecting the full amount agreed upon last summer.

According to ESPN journalist Rob Dawson, the Premier League giants aren’t concerned by the situation. The club’s directors are confident they would be able to sell Rashford to another club on favourable terms if Barcelona opt not to exercise their buy option.

The source notes that Rashford’s exploits at Camp Nou have attracted suitors from England and Europe, with several clubs enquiring about a possible deal.

Should Rashford & Man Utd try to rekindle their bond?

ESPN also raises an interesting point, insisting that Rashford is no longer an unwelcome figure at Carrington following Ruben Amorim’s sacking in January.

The Portuguese head coach was the one who pushed the attacker out of the club after omitting him from the squad in December 2024. While it remains to be seen if Michael Carrick will be confirmed or not, the interim coach would be delighted to have Rashford at his disposal, especially with the club seeking a left winger.

Nevertheless, Dawson reckons that the Manchester native is still ‘unlikely’ to be reinstated in the first team, even though his return is no longer considered logistically impossible.

Rashford himself would prefer to prolong his stay at Barcelona, where he found his joy for the game once more, albeit he wouldn’t mind reviving his Man Utd stay, especially following his unceremonious exit in January 2025.

All in all, a permanent separation might be for the best, as both parties have already moved on, even if the temptation to rekindle an old love story is inescapable.

If Isaac Newton’s third law of motion were a football club, it would be Sheffield United in 2025-2026. Every step forward matched by an equal step back. From start to finish, not good, not bad, just very middling. You could say the most mid-table season ever.

The Manager Change and Re-do

Ruben Selles, a step forwards? I know what you are thinking surely not. But remember you and I now have hindsight. Regardless of whether you agreed with Chris Wilder’s second departure or not. Sheffield United were promised a young and progressive manager.

In concept, that’s not a terrible idea. The execution however is important and much like the finishing on display against Wrexham on Saturday, that was lacking.

After some decent pre-season results against opposition that masked the impending doom. There was a brief grace period of the opening 45 against Bristol City. The Blades were attacking, the passing moves were flowing and then the whistle blew for half-time. As the Selles hype-train left the station. Soon enough it was a 5-0 defeat to Ipswich Town and the experiment ended.

Return to Chris Wilder, not the dinosaur manager other fans label him as but an admission of old over new. A return from promised progression to the old reliable.

Wilder’s revolution took the Blades from the bottom three to outside playoff contenders. Bramall Lane was a fortress again. Whilst, the Blades’ form topped the form tables. Only coming unstuck against the current top two when they visited Bramall Lane. Two performances that have derailed the Blades from outside playoff hopefuls to just a mid-table side.

Ultimately, the managerial situation of any club is going to dictate to a large extent how a season will go. Placing Wilder on the back foot meant the Blades would always struggle to challenge for the top six. This season has also shown up the limitations of last season’s side and Wilder. The winning moments, the fitness issues, the ability to keep hold of a narrow win that made the Blades so great last season. They have all swung the other way this season.

The Transfer Windows

You can tell something about the quality of Sheffield United’s last two transfer windows based on the fact that the best two signings came outside of them. Jairo Riedewald in October and Patrick Bamford in November. Need some midfield experience? Riedewald on a free. Lacking a clinical striker who offers something different? Bamford on a free. It’s the Wilder way.

Summer

The summer however wasn’t Wilder at all. The early signings whether made by AI or otherwise were underwhelming. With the latter stages of the window a scramble to bring in recognised EFL players.

With hindsight, the window proved to be the lower end of mid-table as many expected. Tanganga has proven, as was thought, to be a decent signing, but the window also threw up the unexpected star signing of Selles’ favourite Tyler Bindon. Whilst, players like McGuinness, Chong, Mee and Soumare have played their roles to varying successes.

But for all those players, the summer signings of Barry and Godfrey (no longer with the club). As well as Ogbene, Ings and Zatterstrom who have so far been ineffective. The summer panic left the Blades mainly on the back foot.

January

January was a Wilder window, his fingerprints all over it. Again he wanted experienced quality mixed with his own unique brand of going in for a player until you sign them. Previously on Wilder’s radar, Hoever, Rothwell and Phillips finally arrived through the door. Whilst Hjelde, who came in to cover the injured Sam McCallum has had the unfortunate role of being the rarely seen understudy of Harrison Burrows. Only 51 minutes is a bit harsh Chris, it’s a decent drive down from Sunderland.

Phillips most visibly resembles a Wilder signing, a player who has hit their potential but got lost along the way. To be fair you don’t turn down Manchester City. Although, for both Phillips and Rothwell two players looking for a new start, Wilder has been unable to work his usual magic. Not much of this is Wilder’s fault, of course, what with Rothwell’s debut red and Phillips’ injury issues.

Much like Selles’ appointment, Phillips’ arrival high-profile but low-impact points to a wider style over substance approach. An approach to paper over the cracks after being placed in a time crunch.

Mid-Table Stats

Sheffield United are deservedly mid-table and after six straight losses in the league at the start of the season. The relief in perspective of not going down can’t be lost. But the Blades have really leaned into the mid-table form recently.

Points Per Game

At stages since Wilder’s return the Blades were earning two points a game, the hallowed points per game required for promotion pushes. But now we’re 34 league games into Wilder’s third tenure. It’s all become a bit too predictable.

For the last near decade since Wilder’s arrival in the summer of 2016. Whether, Wilder or Heckingbottom, whoever was in the dugout. Something has happened. This season while a step back is the first time in a long time where Easter weekend means very little. At least in the Premier League relegation seasons. There was a pride element.

The Blades are lost at sea in that sense. Leading to a points per game since Wilder’s return of 1.47. It doesn’t get any more mid-table than that.

No draws (Extreme Mid-Table)

The only thing not mid-table about Sheffield United is the ability to draw games. It’s a nearly non-existent ability. The lowest amount of draws in the division with five. Sheffield United don’t have the usual issue of a mid-table side looking to push on. There’s no need to turn draws into wins, it’s a need to stop turning wins into defeats.

15 wins against 19 defeats would be somewhat of an emotional rollercoaster of form. Except unfortunately Sheffield United have gone about it in a very dull way. The early wins of Wilder part three which were exciting goal-fests have been replaced with an inevitable feeling after taking the lead. 27 points dropped from winning positions this season is like the 90 minute equivalent of a VAR decision. Don’t celebrate that victory just yet by the hour mark it will be chalked off.

Ultimately, leading to one big draw across the season with 46 matches culminating in mid-table.

Goals For/Goals Against

Another interesting or uninteresting fact about Sheffield United’s 2025-2026 is the balanced goals for and goals against. Both on 54 goals for and 54 against. It’s the football equivalent of being stuck in neutral, although to be fair a remaining seven matches of 0-0 draws is favourable to what current form is showing.

Not to mention the Blades’ points total, the usual Championship safety blanket of 50 points has been reached. Opta Analyst data suggests the Blades are likely to reach 60 by the end of the season. The difference in the two totals is how nervous you want your pessimistic friend on the Kop to be.

Overview

If you had said Sheffield United would be mid-table this season at the end of last season, the statement would have been met with disappointment.

Personally, like many Blades, the perspective of how bad the start was makes mid-table safety somewhat of a relief. Heading to League One is a headache best worth avoided. Although, having said that I can also see the frustration of Blades that wanted the side to push for the playoffs more. Even those who question Wilder’s future as manager.

The two feelings should be able to exist. Much like the club this season we can sit in the middle somewhere. We can be grateful for Chris coming in and saving the club from a relegation battle. But also rue missed chances to retrieve the season and the amount of points dropped. Hopefully next season the Blades can ironically get the balance right and leave the equal and opposite reactions to Isaac Newton.

We finally know all the details around the San Francisco 49ers' Week 1 showdown with the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the game will kick off Thursday, Sept. 10, at 5:35 p.m. PT at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia. For the players, though, the game will be taking place on Friday at 10:35 am Australian Eastern Standard Time because of the 17-hour time difference.

The 49ers and Rams will play Thursday, Sept. 10 at 5:35 p.m. PT at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia. Due to the 17-hour time difference, the 49ers and Rams will take the field Friday at 10:35 a.m. (AEST) in Melbourne, with the game airing Thursday evening in the United… pic.twitter.com/GgqvBbxxrR

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 25, 2026

While this is a Week 1 game, it won't be the first game of the 2026 season. The NFL announced that the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks will kick off the season on Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 5:20 p.m. PT. Their opponent has yet to be announced.

The 49ers-Rams game will mark a historic first for the NFL, as it will feature the first two teams to play an NFL game in Australia. It will be a massive undertaking for the teams and the league, considering the travel requirements and the time difference. But, since it's Week 1, both teams will have ample time to get to Melbourne to prepare. At some point, too, they'll know where they'll be headed for Week 2.

This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 49ers-Rams Australia game start time revealed

The Oklahoma Sooners moved up one spot in the latest NFCA Coaches Poll after their sweep of the Ole Miss Rebels in Oxford. The Sooners landed at No. 5 in the nation, in the same spot OU landed in Softball America's latest rankings.

The Sooners come in behind Texas, which ranked No. 1 following Tennessee's drop in the polls. Texas Tech is No. 2, followed by Florida at No. 3 and the Volunteers at No. 4. Tennessee fell from the top spot after its series loss to Florida.

Oklahoma and Texas are the only two teams undefeated in SEC play through three weekends. The Longhorns take on the Texas A&M Aggies in a top 25 matchup this weekend in Austin.

Oklahoma's next series comes against the LSU Tigers, who moved up two spots to No. 20 in the rankings after their series win over South Carolina. The Sooners and Tigers face off this week in Baton Rouge.

Full NFCA Softball Coaches Poll

Others receiving votes:

Clemson (42), UCF (23), North Carolina (12), Belmont (8), Purdue (3), Southeastern Louisiana (3), Baylor (1), Boston University (1).

Dropped out:

No. 24 UCF (24-10), No. 25 Clemson (22-10)

Contact/Follow us @SoonersWire on X (formerly known as Twitter), and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oklahoma news, notes, and opinions.You can also follow John on X @john9williams.

This article originally appeared on Sooners Wire: Oklahoma Sooners No. 5 in these week's NFCA Coaches Poll

Phillies' expectations for Justin Crawford revealed before Opening Day originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

There's going to be a lot of hype surrounding Justin Crawford this season with the Philadelphia Phillies.

He's a top-100 prospect who has been handed the Opening Day gig to start in centerfield. That's a big deal.

The Phillies, though, don't actually need Crawford to live up to the outsized hype that will surround him.

Instead, they'll just need him to do the simple things well.

"He doesn’t need to be a savior for the Phillies," MLB.com's Todd Zolecki wrote in a new article on Wednesday. "Not even close. He just needs to hit enough in the nine hole and catch the baseball. If he exceeds those modest expectations, the Phillies will be thrilled."

MORE: Mike Trout, Tiger Woods, and Superman without his cape

Crawford is also the son of Carl Crawford, the long-time Tampa Bay star, so there's added name pressure, too.

The Phillies didn't have to keep Crawford up for Opening Day, though. Clearly, they feel he's ready.

He has given them flashes that make him seem particularly promising, too.

"Justin Crawford has looked big league ready this spring," Zolecki writes. "He tripled just the other day against Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal. It was his fourth extra-base hit of the spring. Crawford has also made some nice plays in center field."

MORE: Mets, Marlins risk Moneyball Ron Washington mistake

Crawford isn't likely to hit for a ton of power in the early going, but he's got enough hitting talent to contribute while also settling into his role in center.

There might be growing pains, but the Phillies just need Crawford to settle in and be himself and things will work out just fine.

More MLB news:

• How a Blue Jays unknown can decide the World Series
• Juan Soto might lead MLB in a brand new stat
• Giants snap embarrassing 19-year streak that tied MLB record
• MLB's future of the shortstop position is immensely bright
• Cal Raleigh was supposed to play for the Braves
• 4 MLB teams that can unseat the Dodgers

LAS VEGAS — The biggest hurdle has been cleared.

Las Vegas’ NBA future was decided Wednesday when the league’s Board of Governors decided to move forward with exploration of expanding from the current 30 teams to 32. Along with Las Vegas, Seattle is also being considered.

Without the owners’ green lighting the plan, Vegas’ NBA dream would have died right there. Instead, it glided over the biggest hurdle the way Edwin Moses used to navigate the hurdles in his illustrious track career.

“Today’s vote reflects our Board’s interest in exploring potential expansion to Las Vegas and Seattle — two markets with a long history of support for NBA basketball,” commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement from New York where the owners met and voted. “We look forward to taking this next step and engaging with interested parties.”

Understand that there are still other hurdles to clear before a Las Vegas and Seattle team steps foot onto an NBA floor in 2028-29. The biggest will be the ownership group that will go through a thorough vetting process courtesy of investment bank PJT Partners before the owners agreer to let them into their club.

Whoever is approved better have deep, deep pockets. ESPN has said on numerous occasions that the cost to join the NBA will range from $7 billion to $10 billion. Already, LeBron James said he is no longer interested in pursuing being part of an ownership group for Las Vegas. Magic Johnson has said that his group MAGI is interested and recently met with Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo.

Lombardo was among several politicians at the city, county, state and federal level to laud the NBA’s decision Wednesday.

“I’m very excited to see then NBA advance this process toward a Las Vegas expansion team,” Lombardo said in a statement. “Today’s vote by the NBA’s Board of governors is a testament to the incredible growth we’re seeing in Southern Nevada and our state’s business-friendly environment. Las Vegas has already shown unwavering support for our professional sports franchises and a new NBA team will provide even more entertainment, more jobs and more small business growth or the region.

“I look forward to continuing conversations with Commissioner Silver and league officials to ensure this expansion delivers lasting benefits for the state of Nevada.”

Golden Knights majority owner Bill Foley had previously expressed some interest in owning a Vegas NBA franchise. He has been mum on the subject of late so who knows where his thought process is? There may be other interested suitors who have yet to surface but now will come forward given the process can proceed.

And then there’s the family of Miriam Adelson, which owns the Dallas Mavericks. The family has deep ties to Las Vegas and might be willing to sell the Mavs to clear a path toward ownership of a Vegas NBA team.

Then there are matters of where the team will play, what will be its name (colleague Willie Ramirez says it has to be the “Sharks” in tribute to Jerry Tarkanian), who will run the basketball and business side of things and many other details. Those will get sorted out over time. But the next important matter will be the ownership group.

T-Mobile Arena would likely serve as the logical starting point for any NBA team in Las Vegas until someone builds a new facility for the team. So far, the talk of doing that at several locations by different groups has been just that — talk.

Let’s not forget that Seattle once had an NBA team. The SuperSoniucs existed from 1967 to 2008 and won the NBA title in 1979. So it’s great to see that city potentially getting its team back. It’ll likely play at Climate Pledge Arena, an outstanding facility and home of the NHL’s Kraken and the WNBA’s Storm.

But here in Las Vegas, while we’ve never had a franchise per se, we’ve had NBA basketball at every level. We’ve hosted preseason games with the Lakers and the Clippers. We’ve had regular-season games with the Jazz at the Thomas & Mack Center in the mid-1980s. We had the NBA All-Star Game in 2007. We’ve had the NBA Summer League for over two decades and we’ve even hosted an NBA playoff game between the Lakers and Portland in 1993. The NBA Cup has called Las Vegas home since its inception three years ago. So we’re no stranger to the Association.

Whichever group gets to own the Las Vegas NBA franchise, it would be wise to sit with Foley, assuming he isn’t awarded it, and pick his brain about how to go about connecting with the community. Basketball in this town will prove to be a far easier sell than hockey was given our history with the game.

Ultimately, the Vegas NBA team must be successful on the court. That means whatever ownership group acquires the rights to the franchise, it better pick the right president and general manager for the basketball operations side. One of Foley’s first hires with the Golden Knights was George McPhee as his GM and we all know how that has worked out during his time in Vegas — a perennial playoff team and a 2023 Stanley Cup championship.

Finding a smart, savvy basketball executive to build the roster, hire the right coaching staff, oversee the construction of the team’s practice facility and knowing the NBA’s nuances inside-out will be critical.

That’s a discussion for another day once the league has settled on its Vegas ownership group and that $7 billion expansion fee has been secured. But it will be critical to the franchise’s health and well-being, both short- and long-term.

The year 2028 could be the most memorable we’ll ever see for sports in this city. Major League Baseball with the Athletics. The NCAA Men’s Final Four at Allegiant Stadium. And the NBA tipping off. The best part? It’ll be here before you know it.

As for today, if you’re an NBA fan in Southern Nevada, it’s time to celebrate. The wait has been excruciatingly long, not as long as Seattle’s wait, but still long enough.

The Los Angeles Rams just re-signed running back Ronnie Rivers who provides depth and kick return value for L.A. at the position, and with L.A. re-adding Rivers to go with three-time thousand yard rusher Kyren Williams, third-year RB Blake Corum and now sophomore running back Jarquez Hunter, is there any need for L.A. to add another RB outside of a training camp body?

Whereas it would be very “all-in” for L.A. to add a stud running back like Jeremiyah Love through the draft, with the Rams re-signing Rivers, they now have the same RB room going into 2026 as they had for the majority of the 2025 season.

Prior to L.A. re-upping with Rivers, Nate Atkins of The Athletic was already reporting that he was getting the sense that L.A. wanted to keep their running back room similar or the same as 2025.

Said Atkins:

“The likelihood is this is the group to handle a run-heavy approach again this season,” Atkins wrote, referencing Williams, Corum and Jarquez Hunter. “The question will be whether Hunter can find any playing time after a rookie season in which the 2025 fourth-round pick was active for just five games and did not see an offensive snap.”

Now with Rivers back, that may be a clear indication that the Rams main running backs are set.

There is still the NFL Draft, there will be injuries, players to be cut, players to step-up and more variables than we can account for, but as it stands, the Rams are seemingly content once again going a full season with Williams at the helm, Corum taking a Year 3 leap (similar to his Year 2 leap), a confidence that Rivers will be able to fill any RB role as needed, while seeing if Hunter can grow in his second year at the NFL level.

Hunter seems most likely to be moved/cut if he cannot provide value going into this year, similar to when the Rams parted ways with Zac Evans after drafting him in 2023 before cutting him before the start of the 2024 season.

This situation will continue to be monitored, that is certain, but the result come September 2026 may be the same as it looks in March of 2026, and that’s the Rams once again rolling with Williams, Corum, Rivers and Hunter as their ground game.

Bill Self replacements: Ranking Kansas' best candidates if longtime coach steps down originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Kansas coach Bill Self has not made a decision on his future. 

The Kansas City Star reports Self refuted reports Wednesday about retirement. The Jayhawks coach has not made a decision whether he will return for a 24th season.

If Self opts to retire, Kansas would be in the market for just their third head coach since Roy Williams took the job ahead of the 1989-90 season. The Jayhawks have a .796 winning percentage under Self; which ranks third among Division I schools in that stretch behind Gonzaga (.840) and Duke (.807). Kansas also won national championships in 2007-08 and 2021-22.  

Self created an aura of stability at Kansas, but the 63-year-old coach also has dealt with health concerns the last few seasons. 

Who would Kansas turn to if Self ultimately decides to step down? Here is a look at a wide-open candidate pool. 

MARCH MADNESS HQ:Live NCAA bracket | TV schedule | Latest news and more

What is Bill Self's contract at Kansas? 

Self has a unique life-time contract with Kansas and is the highest-paid coach in college basketball. According to USA Today's men's basketball coaches salaries list, Self makes $8.8 million per year on a rolling five-year contract that adds a year after each season. Arkansas' John Calipari is the second-highest paid coach on that list at $8 million per year. 

Kansas coaching candidates

Kansas might swing for home-run hires such as Michigan's Dusty May, Florida's Todd Golden and Arizona's Tommy Lloyd – and we would add those coaches to the list if that interest becomes real. In the meantime, here would be the more practical candidates for Kansas should Self decide to retire: 

TJ Otzelberger, Iowa State coach 

Otzelberger, 48, will never have higher stock given that North Carolina is open and Kansas might pop open. He's led Iowa State to a .705 winning percentage and three Sweet 16 appearances in five seasons, and the Cyclones have the third-best record in the Big 12 the last three seasons behind Arizona and Houston. That includes a pair of 29-win seasons. Otzelberger is 4-6 head-to-head against Kansas since his arrival in 2021-22. 

Jacque Vaughn, Kansas assistant coach 

Vaughn, 51, was a star point guard with the Jayhawks from 1993-97, is an assistant coach with the Jayhawks and would make for an easy transition. He was a two-time head coach in the NBA with the Orlando Magic and Brooklyn Nets. Over two full seasons and four partial seasons, Vaughn had a .363 winning percentage and was swept in the first round of his two playoff appearances. Vaughn is a program icon, and he might fare much better at the college level given the advantages at Kansas. 

Grant McCasland, Texas Tech coach 

McCasland, 49, would be another coach to watch within the Big 12. The Red Raiders have the fourth-best record in the Big 12 the last three seasons, have become a NCAA tournament regular and were in the mix this year until All-American JT Toppin suffered a season-ending injury. McCasland also had a 31-win season at North Texas in 2020-21. The Red Raiders are 2-1 against Kansas the last three seasons. He's won at every stop, and this would be an underrated yet effective hire. 

Jai Lucas, Miami Hurricanes coach 

Lucas, 37, has the pedigree to take on the Kansas job. He was an assistant coach at Texas, Kentucky and Duke – all major programs with huge budgets and expectations. Lucas led Miami to a 26-9 record and made the second round of the 2026 NCAA Tournament. The Hurricanes were 2-6 against ranked teams, and it's not a large sample size. There also is the risk of missing out on Lucas, who is only on the way up. 

Ben McCollum, Iowa coach

McCollum, 44, has an impressive resume between Division II – where he won four national championships at Northwest Missouri State – and in Division I – where he has led Drake and Iowa to a combined record of 54-16 the last two seasons. McCollum is an Iowa City native, however, so it might be difficult to pull him out of the home state – especially with the Hawkeyes coming off their first Sweet 16 appearance since 1999.

Bucky McMillan, Texas A&M coach 

McMillan, 42, has a style of play named after him. “Bucky Ball” ranked in the top 20 in scoring in Division I the last three seasons between Samford and Texas A&M – and the Aggies ranked 12th in the nation with 86.1 points per game. Texas A&M was 1-5 against ranked teams this season, so there remains a prove-it factor. Still, McMillan won 21 or more games each of the last five seasons. McMillan – a former high school coach – would be a long-term hire if successful with Kansas. 

Paul Mills, Wichita State coach 

Mills, 53, would be a lower-tier candidate, but that does not mean he should not be mentioned. He is 58-46 at Wichita State with a pair of NIT performances the last three seasons; a job he took after leading Oral Roberts to a 30-win season in 2022-23. Mills led the Eagles to a Sweet 16 appearance in 2020-21.

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Rangers intend to raise £16m of new capital in a share issue to fund investment in the men's squad, the club chairman Andrew Cavenagh has announced.

As well as revealing adult season ticket prices are going to rise by 6.5%, Cavenagh stated the share offer will be supported by his consortium and existing club shareholders, with the money used to "support player acquisitions and other club needs."

In a letter to Rangers supporters, Cavenagh pointed out that the total now invested since his consortium took over the club in the summer of 2025 stands at £36m.

He also announced that the club will not appoint a replacement for Kevin Thelwell, the former sporting director, who was removed from office in November along with Patrick Stewart, the ex-chief executive.

"We do not plan to hire a sporting director. The executive team is committed to being smaller, nimbler, and more entrepreneurial," Cavenagh said.

"We want an executive team willing to get its fingernails dirty. If there is a hole to be dug, we want people fighting over shovels. We want fewer consulting firms and less bureaucracy."

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All shareholders will receive a letter in relation to the share issue and the resolutions to be approved, but there will be a minimum buy-in for the share issue of 1000 shares.

"Increasing the revenue and capital is only part of the path to allocating more resources to the men's first team," Cavenagh added.

"If we are going to ask supporters to pay more for tickets, we have an obligation to spend those funds wisely.

"We have shrunk the size and cost of the executive team. We are systematically reviewing every part of the club, looking for ways to be more efficient, thus enabling a greater share of the resources to go to the men's first team.

"The costs to run the club - player wages, agents' fees, security, food and beverage - are all rising faster than the overall rate of inflation.

"We either need the club's revenues to keep pace, or we need to decrease the money spent on the squad. We don't believe this is the time to decrease the player and football budget; in fact, we think the opposite."

In his letter, Cavenagh re-iterated what was previously said by the club about the chaotic scenes at the most recent Old Firm game at Ibrox, when fans entered the pitch after a penalty shootout.

"The club has already issued a statement regarding the recent Old Firm match, and I don't want to repeat that statement here, but I also didn't want to ignore such an important subject," he said.

"We continue to denounce the disorder, property damage, and especially those who denigrated the 66 souls lost in the Ibrox disaster.

"We fully support the independent review and will work with all relevant stakeholders, while continuing to represent the club and our supporters."

Rangers want referee summit

Meanwhile, Rangers are attempting to schedule a meeting of Premiership clubs to discusss the use of video assistant referees (VAR), a discussion which may happen in the next fortnight.

Many clubs have publicly expressed concerns about VAR and the general state of refereeing in Scotland.

It's believed that Rangers have not ruled out withdrawing their financial support of VAR but broadly they believe the system is here to stay.

They might even be prepared to invest more in the technology - for example extra cameras - if they had sufficient confidence that increased investment would lead to better quality decision-making.

When the meeting of clubs takes place there will be an emphasis on coming up with ways to improve the product and get better value for money.

Last month, Paraag Marathe, then the club's vice-chairman as well as chairman of Leeds United, stood down after discussions with Uefa about multi-club ownership.

Another Rangers director at the time Gene Schneur, also left his role at Ibrox at that time. Neither will be replaced.

Cavenagh also offered his support for manager, Danny Rohl, ahead of the title run-in.

"We are three points off the lead, with seven matches to play," he said.

"We have complete confidence in Danny, his staff, and our squad. We will approach each match as it comes, and fingers crossed, we will be at the top of the table after 38 matches."

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Darts sensation Luke Littler brought his precision to St George’s Park this week, hosting a tournament for the England football squad as they gear up for crucial pre-World Cup friendlies against Uruguay and Japan.

The double world champion offered a masterclass in hitting the target to Thomas Tuchel’s men.

Littler joined Tuchel’s group for dinner before overseeing the 'Three Lions Darts Championship' at their Burton base on Tuesday night.

Newcastle goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale emerged as the camp champion, impressing Littler, despite Phil Foden hitting a 180 in the final.

The 19-year-old, travelling to Berlin this week for Premier League action, expressed his excitement.

He said: "It was a dream as a football fan to come here to see the facilities, meet all the players and sit down and have dinner and have a laugh with them. We played a bit of darts – as they were warming up, Thomas Tuchel told me to teach these boys a lesson!

“There’s some good potential there in Phil Foden and Aaron Ramsdale. James Trafford had a little bit as well. The others not so much! I wished the boys luck this summer – let’s hope they can bring it home."

Littler received a signed England shirt, with Jude Bellingham also giving him a personalised jersey bearing the message "Keep smashing it" on the back.

England’s players will now look to impress Tuchel in their upcoming friendlies as they bid to move a step closer to securing their spot in his World Cup squad.

Meanwhile, Littler’s attention will turn to the Premier League Darts as he looks to overhaul Jonny Clayton at the top of the table.

Littler moved to within three points of the Welshman in the standings by pulling off a dramatic victory over Gerwyn Price in last week’s final in Dublin.

Littler found himself 5-0 down before rattling off six straight legs to stun Price.

We finally know when the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers will play their highly anticipated matchup in Melbourne, Australia next season. On Wednesday, the Rams announced their game against San Francisco will be played on Thursday, Sept. 10 at 5:35 p.m. PT.

With the 17-hour time difference between L.A. and Melbourne, the game will be played on Friday at 10:35 a.m. local time in Melbourne. It’s taking place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the first NFL regular-season game ever to be played in Australia.

The defending Super Bowl champions traditionally open the season on Thursday Night Football in Week 1, but because the Rams and 49ers are in that slot, the Seattle Seahawks will play the season opener the night before on Wednesday. Their opponent is still to be determined.

Opening the season in Australia!

More info » https://t.co/YR0iCw69eRpic.twitter.com/KkwUfxCNp4

— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) March 25, 2026

Rams-49ers is one of nine international games on the NFC schedule for 2026, with games spanning four continents and seven countries – the largest international slate in league history.

Qualifying season ticket members will be able to purchase tickets for Rams-49ers starting April 1 at 2 p.m. PT, with hospitality packages going on sale on April 6 at 5 p.m. PT.

General tickets will go on sale to the public on April 7 at 5 p.m. PT.

This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Rams-49ers Australia game: Date, time officially set for Week 1

No member of the 2022 Minnesota Vikings' draft class signed a second contract with the team. The Vikings are looking to change that with Jordan Addison, the first pick of their 2023 class.

Through almost two weeks, Minnesota has taken a conservative approach to free agency. They have prioritized bringing back familiar veterans, and even Kyler Murray cost them only $1.3 million.

ESPN's Kevin Seifert dug into the team's approach to free agency thus far. He cited interim general manager Rob Brzezinski's message last month at the combine, where Brzezinski emphasized a "draft and develop" system that has eluded the Vikings since 2022 and could begin with signing Addison to an extension.

Brzezinski said last month that he envisioned the Vikings as a franchise that looks to "draft and develop and to retain our core, and supplement in free agency." That served as a reminder that teams don't just use cap space on free agency, but also -- and often more importantly -- on signing their existing players to contract extensions. Right tackle Brian O'Neill and receiver Jordan Addison are among the upcoming deals the Vikings have budgeted for.

Addison has been a solid WR2 when he's been on the field. Through three seasons, he has 175 receptions for 2,376 yards and 22 touchdowns. He even added a 65-yard touchdown run to his stat sheet this year on Christmas.

Unfortunately, Addison's off-field issues have made him a headache. As a rookie, he received a citation for driving 140 mph in a 55-mph speed zone. In 2024, he was arrested for a DUI in Los Angeles, and he had to sit out the first three games of the 2025 season as a result.

This January, he was arrested for trespassing, although that case was later dismissed. The incident was a reminder, though, that Addison still has a lot of maturing to do off the field.

But if he stays out of trouble, Addison gives the Vikings the perfect complement to Justin Jefferson. Addison is only 24 years old, and his best football is still ahead of him. Because of that, Minnesota wants to ensure it locks him up and keeps its talented receiving corps intact.

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: The Vikings are looking to extend WR Jordan Addison soon it seems

Wrexham AFC's Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac have donated £8,000 towards a former player's rehabilitation following a serious injury.

Jordan Tunnicliffe, 32, ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his knee while playing for Farnborough Football Club in February and faces the next season on the sidelines after surgery.

The club set up a crowdfunding page for £20,000 for the operation and recovery as he will be without income and out of contract in May.

The defender, who received more than 180 cash pledges, said he was "overwhelmed by the generosity of a lot of people", including the celebrities, club executive Humphrey Ker, former goalkeeper Ben Foster and fans.

"I don't think I will ever be able to thank them enough to be honest," he said.

"When I was at Wrexham they were fantastic with me then."

Tunicliffe, who has an eight-month-old son, said he had initially considered giving up on his football career after 16 years due to his injury.

However, that all changed when online offers of financial support "went a bit mad".

The page about his injury on GoFundMe has raised in excess of £15,000 as of 25 March.

"Now I've got the best opportunity to get back playing," said Tunicliffe, from Nuneaton, Warwickshire.

He made 32 appearances for Wrexham between 2022 and 2024.

"It's motivated me to go back and play and I want to do that because of the generosity of everybody.

"It's been a big help. I can go back to supporting my family."

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Patrick Mahomes posted a reminder on Wednesday that the biggest story of the NFL offseason is still him. It’s just different this time.

It’s not Mahomes coming off another Super Bowl appearance with the Kansas City Chiefs; this time it’s him coming back from a torn ACL. Mahomes tore his left ACL on Dec. 14, and suffering the injury that late in the season put his availability for the 2026 season opener in doubt.

Draft your Yahoo Fantasy Baseball team for the 2026 MLB season

Wednesday’s update wasn’t too much, but it was positive. Mahomes posted an Instagram story video of himself throwing with an upbeat message on it.

That’s nothing monumental, but it’s still a good sight for Chiefs fans. Mahomes was wearing a sleeve on his injured leg and seemed to be moving gingerly, but he was moving more than five months before the Chiefs kick off the season.

There haven’t been too many updates on Mahomes’ recovery and any updated timetable. There was a positive report from Fox Sports’ Jay Glazer in early March, saying Mahomes could return before the start of the season. Seeing Mahomes on a football field on Wednesday, however briefly and in a fairly limited fashion, has to be a good sign.

The Chiefs did recently trade for quarterback Justin Fields from the New York Jets, and that’s prudent in case there are any setbacks for Mahomes and he’s not ready to go for Week 1.

The Chiefs’ offseason program hasn’t even started yet, so there will be plenty of updates as the summer months go on. But a quick video of Mahomes doing simple quarterback movements provided the Chiefs a bit of good news.

It wasn't long after the start of free agency that word came out that the Pittsburgh Steelers planned to sign safety Darnell Savage Jr. Then things went very quiet and rumors started to surface that there were issues with Savage being able to pass his physical and this was holding up the transaction. Now, according to Savage's agent, via NFL reporter Aaron Wilson, Savage still does intend to sign with Pittsburgh and looks forward to playing with the Steelers.

2026 marks Savage's eighth season in the NFL. He spent the first five years with the Green Bay Packers, where he played under Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy. Since leaving Green Bay. Savage bounced between the Jacksonville Jaguars, Buffalo Bills and Washington Commanders. Savage appeared in 12 games in 2025 and had one start.

Veteran safety Darnell Savage Jr. intends to sign with #Steelers, per veteran agent Seth Katz. Katz told @KPRC2 Savage is making preparations for 2026 season. 'Darnell is looking forward to playing for the Steelers,' Katz said. pic.twitter.com/7thdBzVXP3

— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 25, 2026

The Steelers' interest in Savage, along with the signing of Jaquan Brisker, could be a sign that the Steelers have no intention of re-signing Kyle Dugger. While we are good with Brisker coming on, replacing Dugger after how well be played last year with Savage feels like a serious downgrade.

This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Darnell Savage still plans to sign with Steelers per his agent

FC Barcelona is blessed with many players that can take over a game. SofaScore recently posted an eye-opening stat that underscores this.

The Catalan club has the most different players scoring a hat-trick this season, with 5. The second place is a tie between Madrid and Chelsea, and two behind, with 3.

Robert Lewandowski, Fermín López, Ferran Torres, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha have all registered one game scoring thrice. That includes the team’s three starting forwards, plus a substitute, and their most prolific scoring midfielder.

The other La Liga giants and a Premier League side are the biggest competition on this front. Kylian Mbappé, Federico Valverde, and Gonzalo García have scored a treble of goals in a game for Madrid this season. João Pedro, Pedro Neto, and Cole Palmer did it for Chelsea.

There are several clubs in Europe’s top 5 leagues with two players scoring a hat-trick. Perhaps most interesting is Paris Saint-Germain. It’s not their Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé or Georgian star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia getting the hat-tricks. Instead, it’s their central midfield pairing – João Neves and Vitinha – who are teammates for Portugal as well.

How does the Indianapolis Colts' free agent class compare to the rest of the NFL?

ESPN's Ben Solak recently ranked how every NFL team fared during the free agency period. And while the Colts were quite active, Solak isn't a big fan of how things have unfolded.

Out of the 32 NFL teams, the Colts are No. 27 in Solak's rankings.

Two of the moves that Solak liked were the Colts being able to retain Alec Pierce and using the transition tag on Daniel Jones.

"The Colts rightfully prioritized the young rising star wide receiver and let the injured mercenary quarterback "test the market" on the transition tag," Solak wrote. "Although Pierce's $28.5 million per year has some sticker shock at first, it will quickly be outstripped by an ever-rising wide receiver market."

He continued, "Jones' two-year deal is extremely cuttable after one season, giving the Colts the flexibility they need as they navigate his Achilles recovery."

Pierce is known for his big-play abilities, but he has developed into a more well-rounded wide receiver over the years. With Jones, the Colts made it clear since the offseason began that their intention was to re-sign him. The belief is that the success he had prior to his injury can be replicated.

As far as what Solak does not like about the Colts' free agency approach, it is their plan -- or lack thereof -- at the linebacker and safety positions.

"This is about as thin of a linebacker and safety room as I've seen in the post-free agency, predraft space," Solak wrote. "The current projected starters at linebacker are Austin Ajiake, Jaylon Carlies and Davis-Gaither. At safety, Hunter Wohler will replace Nick Cross. The Colts have tried to find viable starters on minimum contracts in Juanyeh Thomas and Jonathan Owens, but it's a bleak outlook in the back seven for Indianapolis. Without a first-round pick, the Colts will struggle to fill all of their current gaps."

Beyond those two positions, the depth at wide receiver and along the offensive line isn't in great shape either.

GM Chris Ballard also hasn't found that high-impact presence at defensive end to pair with Laiatu Latu. Rather, he has instead added two defenders in Arden Key and Micheal Clemons, who would be better suited for more rotational roles.

Relative to the rest of the NFL, the Colts have a good amount of cap space, but we are well past the point of finding a true difference-maker. Then, as Solak notes, the Colts are without a first-round pick and have just two selections in the top 100.

So while Ballard has been active, it's fair to wonder how much -- if at all -- the Colts have actually improved over the last few weeks; hence their position in Solak's rankings.

This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: NFL free agency: Colts' 2026 roster moves ranked by expert

The Philadelphia Eagles continue to tighten their roster. They recently added Elijah Moore on a one-year deal, and now, the competition at wide receiver is already tightening. With another acquisition, another capable body joins a room that was already beginning to take shape. At the top, nothing changes. A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith remain the headliners. We'll see what happens with the former. Meanwhile, Marquise Brown slots in (pun intended) as a dangerous complement.

Behind them? That's where things get interesting. Second-year wideout Johnny Wilson is expected back after an injury-shortened 2025 season, and the organization has shown more belief in him than many outside the building.

That alone could make him a strong bet to stick. Then there's Darius Cooper, who earned a roster spot as an undrafted rookie last season, along with familiar names like Britain Covey and Quez Watkins. Danny Gray adds yet another layer to the mix. And the numbers don't lie. The Eagles might be approaching gridlock at the position. Most teams carry six wide receivers on the 53-man roster. If Brown, Smith, and Marquise Brown are locked in, and if Wilson is as valued internally as it seems, that may leave just two spots up for grabs.

Now add Moore into that equation.

He brings experience, versatility, and legitimate upside, making him far more than just another camp body. Suddenly, players who may have felt secure are anything but. Oh, and by the way, there's an NFL Draft approaching. Philadelphia has already shown interest in several incoming receivers, meaning another addition isn't out of the question.

The result? A numbers crunch before offseason workouts even begin. For the Eagles, that's by design. For everyone else in that room, it's a message: nothing will be given—everything must be earned.

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Elijah Moore's signing further heats up the Eagles' crowded WR battle

In Saturday’s 72-63 loss to Syracuse, Iowa State’s Audi Crooks did everything humanly possible to will her team to a win. She scored 37 points, shooting 68% from the field. But for the third time in her three seasons with the Cyclones, her season was over in the first weekend of the NCAA tournament. 

In wondering what’s next for one of the nation’s best scorers, could the WNBA draft be a possibility? Under the previous CBA, Crooks is WNBA-draft eligible, as she will turn 22 in December. She told ESPN earlier this year that she wants to finish college first, but Iowa State’s finish in the tournament and the new CBA that will pay rookies well could change things. 

Crooks has also not answered questions about whether she will definitely stay at Iowa State. After the loss, she said she was still processing things with her team. It’s not impossible that Crooks could follow the lead of two players on this list below. Both Olivia Miles and Cotie McMahon transferred before the final year of their college careers and thrived with their new teams. 

If Crooks were to declare for the WNBA draft scheduled for April 13, she will be an intriguing prospect. Standing 6-foot-3, she’s shorter than most centers, but her ability to score while absorbing contact has to interest WNBA coaches. 

Crooks' future is still unknown, but other players who are expected to be in the draft had successful first weekends of the tournament. 

Azzi Fudd, UConn 

Azzi Fudd was already one of the top prospects heading into the draft before the tournament started, but her game against No. 9 Syracuse in the second round only bolstered her resume. In her final game for No. 1 UConn at Gampel Pavilion, Fudd scored 34 points in 27 minutes, shooting 72.2% from the field. She made eight 3-pointers, including six in the first half. It’s not just that she played well; she played efficiently and made the most of her time on the court. 

Raven Johnson, South Carolina 

If WNBA scouts were judging Raven Johnson solely on this past weekend’s games, her stock would take a hit. She scored a total of 12 points and dished out eight assists over two games. Her trademark defense was still there, and her minutes were limited because South Carolina won both games in a blowout. The good news for Johnson is that the No. 1 Gamecocks will need her to show off what she can do in their Sweet 16 matchup with No. 4 Oklahoma, and the odds are good she’ll rise to the occasion. 

Flau’jae Johnson, LSU 

If WNBA scouts judged prospects by their joy on the court, Flau’jae Johnson scored high in that category in her final games in Baton Rouge. Her ability to creatively get to the basket is just fun to watch, and she makes sure all of her teammates are in on the party. She scored 24 points against No. 7 Texas Tech in the second round and had two steals, showing the kind of guard she can be in the WNBA. 

Cotie McMahon, Ole Miss

No. 5 Ole Miss was in a tight game with No. 4 Minnesota in the fourth quarter of their second-round game, and Cotie McMahon was the key to how well the Rebels were playing. She had 15 points and was making big, physical plays on defense. Unfortunately, those same plays got her into foul trouble, and she fouled out with four minutes left in the game. Minnesota came back to win the game on a memorable last-second shot that gave us one of the most exciting games of the first weekend.

There’s no way to know if McMahon’s presence in the game would have changed the course of it, but it was easy to see that the fifth foul call was really close. Ole Miss coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin said after the game that she thought the call was incorrect, and McMahon’s physicality is what will help her translate to the next level: 

“The SEC is the baby WNBA and in the WNBA you're playing with grown women, and so there is a component that if you're not physical enough, you won't be able to succeed,” McPhee-McCuin said. “That's why Cotie is going to be a first-round pick, because she's physically fit for the next level.”

It’s unlikely that fouling out dinged McMahon’s draft stock, but she’s the only player on this list who won’t be playing the second weekend of the tournament. If anything hurts her, it’s that she won’t get a chance to show off her skills again. 

Olivia Miles, TCU 

No. 3 TCU didn’t have an easy path to the Sweet 16, as the Horned Frogs needed overtime to knock out the No. 6 Washington Huskies in the second round. But Olivia Miles’ play stood out in that win and the team’s first-round win over UCSD. Against Washington, she posted a double-double, scoring 18 and grabbing 10 rebounds. She was even more impressive in the first round, getting a triple-double with 12 points, 16 rebounds and 14 assists. She showed off passing prowess early in the game, setting up her teammates with fancy passing. 

Lauren Betts, UCLA 

This play during UCLA’s 96-43 win over Cal-Baptist shows exactly why Betts is expected to go so highly in the WNBA draft.

She makes the pass for Kiki Rice, then sets a pick for her just outside the 3-point line as Rice uses the space Betts made to attempt a shot. When Rice’s shot fails, Betts is already in the paint to make the putback. She knows how to use her size to set up her teammates, but has the ability to move around the court quickly so she can score, too. What WNBA doesn’t need that? 

Kiki Rice, UCLA 

Averaging 27.5 minutes per game, Rice had a decent enough weekend that it didn’t likely affect her draft stock either way. She scored 18 points in the first round and 10 in the second. But there’s another stat that jumps out with Rice: she made 16 out of 16 free throws over the weekend. That kind of consistency from the line — and ability to get to the line that often — are really compelling attributes for a player looking to jump to the next level. 

The Cleveland Guardians have chosen their twenty-six players for Opening Day in Seattle.

Catchers: Bo Naylor, Austin Hedges, David Fry

Infielders: Kyle Manzardo, Rhys Hoskins, Brayan Rocchio, Gabriel Arias, Jose Ramirez and Daniel Schneemann.

Outfielders: CJ Kayfus, Steven Kwan, Chase DeLauter and Angel Martinez.

Starting Pitchers: Tanner Bibee, Gavin Williams, Slade Cecconi, Joey Cantillo, and Parker Messick.

Bullpen: Peyton Pallette, Colin Holderman, Connor Brogdon, Tim Herrin, Matt Festa, Erik Sabrowski, Shawn Armstrong, and Cade Smith.

Hunter Gaddis, Andrew Walters and George Valera all open the year on the 15-day IL.

Johnathan Rodríguez was designated for assignment today. Condolences to CTC site user Ray Fosse.

What do you think about the roster choices? Let us know in the comments below

According to Sky Germany's sources, Nick Woltemade and Kai Havertz are “guaranteed to be on the plane to the US if they're fit” for Germany's 2026 World Cup campaign.

It's believed Nagelsmann recently spoke to Woltemade on the phone and expressed his full confidence in him despite the rough patch he's going through at Newcastle United.

Meanwhile, Havertz is another player Nagelsmann particularly appreciates. He can play both as a striker and as a number 10, giving the team some attacking flexibility.

Despite enjoying the best season of his career at VfB Stuttgart, Deniz Undav still needs to prove himself to the German head coach to be part of the World Cup squad.

His role under Nagelsmann is less clear than at the Baden-Württemberg club, as the national team's style of play differs vastly from that of Stuttgart's according to Sky. 

Furthermore, Nagelsmann is also planning to call up either Niclas Füllkrug or Tim Kleindienst, with a classic target man who is strong aerially seen as crucial for final stages of a match.

Füllkrug's advantage is his experience in major tournaments. Kleindienst is sidelined after knee surgery, but still has World Cup hopes. Nagelsmann recently spoke to both strikers 

Bleacher Report Ranks Red Sox Lineup In MLB Top 10 Ahead Of Opening Day originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Bleacher Report has dropped its full rankings of every MLB lineup for the 2026 season, slotting the Boston Red Sox at No. 10 overall.

Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report broke it down this way: “Newcomers Willson Contreras and Caleb Durbin, along with a full season of rising superstar Roman Anthony, should make the Red Sox a better overall lineup even after Alex Bregman walked in free agency. If Marcelo Mayer can live up to his top prospect billing while settling in as the primary second baseman, there won't be a hole in the lineup."

Optimism surrounding the Red Sox lineup centers on depth and Anthony's star power. Contreras brings proven pop from the catcher spot, Durbin adds infield versatility and contact skills, and Anthony finally gets a complete, uninterrupted campaign after flashing elite tools in limited action last year.

The loss of Bregman in free agency stung, yet the pieces in place appear ready to fill any gaps. Mayer’s development at second base is the final variable; if the former top prospect stabilizes there, Boston could boast one of the most balanced attacking groups in the American League.

Manager Alex Cora has repeatedly praised the chemistry between the new additions and holdovers like Jarren Duran and Ceddanne Rafaela. No major injuries have surfaced to derail the plan.

While rankings are just projections, this No. 10 placement suggests Boston’s offense will not be a weakness in 2026. If the young core delivers as expected, the Red Sox could push well beyond last year’s 89-win total and make noise in a highly competitive AL East.

More MLB: Meet the New Red Sox: What's Changed — and Why It Matters in 2026

The Miami Dolphins decided to rip off the bandage earlier this month, releasing quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and moving forward with Malik Willis, Quinn Ewers and Cam Miller at the position heading into their offseason program.

Tagovailoa quickly found a new home, signing with the Atlanta Falcons and getting an opportunity to compete alongside Michael Penix for the starting job.

Speaking with the media this week, Tagovailoa addressed his struggles at the end of his tenure with the Dolphins.

"I don't want to get too much in depth with things that were going on," Tagovailoa said. "[This issue was] more so in terms of players-to-coaches than it was players-to-players. It was unique in a sense... in a lot of ways."

Tagovailoa's comments appeared to spark something in those around the Dolphins, including former tight end and current radio broadcaster Joe Rose, who ripped the quarterback on his radio show.

"We paid that bum $200 million for one year of good play. $200 is gonna be the number when this year is over. We're going to be looking at, in guaranteed money from his rookie signing bonus and the amount of money he just got that was guaranteed on that $200+ million contract," Rose said. "And, he's coming out with some kind of weak 'It wasn't players and players.' Because he doesn't want any of the players taking shots at him, because, they will, so he says the coach thing?

"The only coach I can think of is a guy that treated him better than anybody he's ever had treat him in his freaking life, Mike McDaniel. You can get on Mike, whatever you don't like, but he treated that guy better than anybody. He changed and did as many things to give that guy a chance to be successful. He comes out, and people are going to think that was a Mike McDaniel thing. Man, I have to tell you, for a guy that had a bad hip coming in and played like you know what last year to the point that they finally had to bench him after a Monday Night Football game, all his conversation should have been about second chance, playing for the Falcons and shouldn't have been any of that stuff except 'I didn't play very well, last year.' That's it."

Tagovailoa dealt with a lot during his time with the Dolphins, but McDaniel never put him a bad situation, and was constantly building him up. Unless there was some real issues going on between the two behind the scenes, this seemed to come out of nowhere.

More Dolphins: Dolphins hosting 20-sack NFL draft prospect for top-30 visit Wednesday

This article originally appeared on Dolphins Wire: Dolphins broadcaster rips Tua Tagovailoa after critical comments

The NBA playoff picture will come into clearer view each day between now and the end of the regular season on April 12. In the meantime, we will provide detailed daily updates on the landscape, including magic numbers, remaining schedules and the stakes for every day's slate of games.

Jump to: Western Conference

EASTERN CONFERENCE

In the Eastern Conference, the Detroit Pistons, Boston Celtics, New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers, in some order, appear bound for the top four playoff seeds and home-court advantage in the opening round. The Pistons, who hold a five-game lead on the Celtics and Knicks, are almost certain to capture the East’s No. 1 seed, barring a complete meltdown in the absence of injured Cade Cunningham (collapsed lung).

Draft your Yahoo Fantasy Baseball team for the 2026 MLB Season

Who, exactly, those four teams will play in the opening round is entirely up for grabs, as just two wins separate the fifth seed from the 10th seed. The Toronto Raptors, Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, Orlando Magic, Charlotte Hornets and Miami Heat are all jockeying for position down the stretch of a season that has surpassed 70 games.

Technically, the Milwaukee Bucks and Chicago Bulls are still alive for postseason contention, though they are locked in a different kind of race — one for lottery odds.

Playoff-bound, seeding to be determined

1. Detroit Pistons

Record: 52-19 | Net rating: 8.0 (2nd)

• Clinched playoff berth

• Magic number for No. 1 seed: 6

• Remaining schedule: ATL, NOP, @MIN, @OKC, TOR, MIN, @PHI, @ORL, MIL, @CHA, @IND

• Highest possible finish: No. 1 seed

• Lowest possible finish: No. 4 seed

What’s at stake: The No. 1 seed and home-court advantage throughout the Eastern Conference playoffs.

Battling for guaranteed playoff spot

2. Boston Celtics

Record: (47-24) | Net rating: 7.8 (3rd)

• Magic number for No. 2 seed: 11

• Remaining schedule: OKC, ATL, @CHA, @ATL, @MIA, @MIL, TOR, CHA, @NYK, NOP, ORL

• Highest possible finish: No. 1 seed

• Lowest possible finish: No. 10 seed

What’s at stake: The No. 2 seed and home-court advantage in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

3. New York Knicks

Record: 48-25 | Net rating: 6.8 (5th)

• Magic number for No. 3 seed: 8

• Remaining schedule: @CHA, @OKC, @HOU, @MEM, CHI, @ATL, BOS, TOR, CHA

• Highest possible finish: No. 1 seed

• Lowest possible finish: No. 8 seed

What’s at stake: The No. 2 seed and home-court advantage in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

4. Cleveland Cavaliers

Record: 45-27 | Net rating: 4.3 (8th)

• Magic number for No. 4 seed: 7

• Remaining schedule: MIA, MIA, @UTA, @LAL, @GSW, IND, @MEM, ATL, @ATL, WAS

• Highest possible finish: No. 1 seed

• Lowest possible finish: No. 10 seed

What’s at stake: The No. 4 seed and home-court advantage in the first round.

5. Toronto Raptors

Record: 40-31 | Net rating: 2.0 (12th)

• Magic number for No. 5 seed: 11

• Remaining schedule: @LAC, NOP, ORL, @DET, SAC, @MEM, @BOS, MIA, MIA, @NYK, BKN

• Highest possible finish: No. 2 seed

• Lowest possible finish: No. 10 seed

What’s at stake: The No. 5 or 6 seed and a guaranteed playoff berth.

6. Atlanta Hawks

Record: 40-32 | Net rating: 1.7 (13th)

• Magic number for No. 6 seed: 9

• Remaining schedule: @DET, @BOS, SAC, BOS, @ORL, @BKN, NYK, @CLE, CLE, @MIA

• Highest possible finish: No. 2 seed

• Lowest possible finish: Out of the postseason

What’s at stake: The No. 5 or 6 seed and a guaranteed playoff berth.

7. Philadelphia 76ers

Record: 39-33 | Net rating: -0.8 (19th)

• Magic number for No. 7 seed: 10

• Remaining schedule: CHI, @CHA, @MIA, @WAS, MIN, DET, @SAS, @HOU, @IND, MIL

• Highest possible finish: No. 2 seed

• Lowest possible finish: Out of the postseason

What’s at stake: The No. 5 or 6 seed and a guaranteed playoff berth.

8. Orlando Magic

Record: 38-34 | Net rating: 0.7 (17th)

• Magic number for No. 8 seed: Do not control own destiny

• Remaining schedule: SAC, @TOR, PHX, ATL, @DAL, @NOP, DET, MIN, @CHI, @BOS

• Highest possible finish: No. 3 seed

• Lowest possible finish: Out of the postseason

What’s at stake: The No. 5 or 6 seed and a guaranteed playoff berth.

9. Charlotte Hornets (38-34)

Record: 38-34 | Net rating: 4.7 (6th)

• Magic number for No. 9 seed: 10

• Remaining schedule: NYK, PHI, BOS, @BKN, PHX, IND, @MIN, @BOS, DET, @NYK

• Highest possible finish: No. 3 seed

• Lowest possible finish: Out of the postseason

What’s at stake: The No. 5 or 6 seed and a guaranteed playoff berth.

10. Miami Heat

Record: 38-34 | Net rating: 2.4 (11th)

• Magic number for No. 10 seed: 3

• Remaining schedule: @CLE, @CLE, @IND, PHI, BOS, WAS, @TOR, @TOR, @WAS, ATL

• Highest possible finish: No. 2 seed

• Lowest possible finish: Out of the postseason

What’s at stake: The No. 5 or 6 seed and a guaranteed playoff berth.

Still technically alive

11. Milwaukee Bucks

Record: 29-42 | Net rating: -5.5 (25th)

12. Chicago Bulls

Record: 29-42 | Net rating: -4.3 (23rd)

What’s at stake: Whichever team finishes with a worse record will receive a 20.3% chance at a top-four pick and a 4.5% chance at the No. 1 pick. And whichever team finishes with a better record will get a 13.9% shot at top four and a 3% shot at No. 1.

However, if the Bucks do ultimately land the No. 1 pick in the draft lottery — or any selection higher than the New Orleans Pelicans — it will convey to the Hawks.

Wednesday’s games of consequence (all times Eastern)

Hawks at Pistons, 7 p.m.

Bulls at 76ers, 7 p.m.

Thunder at Celtics, 7:30 p.m.

Heat at Cavaliers, 7:30 p.m.

Bucks at Blazers, 10 p.m.

WESTERN CONFERENCE

Out West, the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs are bound for the top two seeds, with OKC holding a considerable lead for the league’s No. 1 overall seed.

The Los Angeles Lakers, with their recent nine-game winning streak, moved in as heavy favorites to capture the conference’s No. 3 seed. Beyond them is anyone’s guess.

Zero losses separate the Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves and Houston Rockets, who are all but guaranteed the West’s final three guaranteed playoff spots. Only one of those three teams will earn home-court advantage in the first round.

The conference’s play-in tournament field is also all but set. The Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors appear headed for the Nos. 7 and 10 seeds, respectively. And the L.A. Clippers and Portland Trail Blazers will duke it out for the Nos. 8 and 9 seeds.

Playoff-bound, seeding to be determined

1. Oklahoma City Thunder

Record: 57-15 | Net rating: 11.1 (1st)

• Clinched playoff berth

• Magic number for No. 1 seed: 8

• Remaining schedule: @BOS, CHI, NYK, DET, LAL, UTA, @LAL, @LAC, @DEN, PHX

• Highest possible finish: No. 1 seed

• Lowest possible finish: No. 2 seed

What’s at stake: The No. 1 seed and home-court advantage throughout the playoffs.

2. San Antonio Spurs

Record: 54-18 | Net rating: 7.7 (4th)

• Clinched playoff berth

• Magic number for No. 2 seed: 2

• Remaining schedule: @MEM, @MIL, CHI, @GSW, @LAC, @DEN, PHI, POR, DAL, DEN

• Highest possible finish: No. 1 seed

• Lowest possible finish: No. 4 seed

What’s at stake: The No. 2 seed and home-court advantage in the Western Conference semifinals.

Battling for guaranteed playoff spot

3. Los Angeles Lakers

Record: 46-26 | Net rating: 1.2 (14th)

• Magic number for No. 3 seed: 8

• Remaining schedule: @IND, BKN, WAS, CLE, @OKC, @DAL, OKC, @GSW, PHX, UTA

• Highest possible finish: No. 2 seed

• Lowest possible finish: No. 8 seed

What’s at stake: The No. 3 seed and home-court advantage in the first round.

4. Denver Nuggets

Record: 45-28 | Net rating: 4.4 (7th)

• Magic number for No. 4 seed: 9

• Remaining schedule: DAL, UTA, GSW, @UTA, SAS, POR, MEM, OKC, @SAS

• Highest possible finish: No. 2 seed

• Lowest possible finish: No. 8 seed

What’s at stake: The No. 4 seed and home-court advantage in the first round.

5. Minnesota Timberwolves

Record: 44-28 | Net rating: 3.6 (10th)

• Magic number for No. 5 seed: 10

• Remaining schedule: HOU, DET, @DAL, @DET, @PHI, CHA, @IND, @ORL, @HOU, NOP

• Highest possible finish: No. 2 seed

• Lowest possible finish: No. 9 seed

What’s at stake: The No. 4 seed and home-court advantage in the first round.

6. Houston Rockets

Record: 43-28 | Net rating: 4.0 (9th)

• Magic number for No. 6 seed: 7

• Remaining schedule: @MIN, @MEM, @NOP, NYK, MIL, UTA, @GSW, @PHX, PHI, MIN, MIN

• Highest possible finish: No. 3 seed

• Lowest possible finish: No. 10 seed

What’s at stake: The No. 4 seed and home-court advantage in the first round.

7. Phoenix Suns

Record: 40-33 | Net rating: 1.0 (15th)

• Magic number for No. 7 seed: 7

• Remaining schedule: UTA, @MEM, @ORL, @CHA, @CHI, HOU, DAL, @LAL, @OKC

• Highest possible finish: No. 3 seed

• Lowest possible finish: No. 10 seed

What’s at stake: The No. 7 seed and home-court advantage against the No. 8 seed in their opening game of the play-in tournament.

8. Los Angeles Clippers (36-36)

Record: 36-36 | Net rating: 1.0 (16th)

• Magic number for No. 8 seed: 9

• Remaining schedule: TOR, @IND, @MIL, POR, SAS, @SAC, DAL, OKC, @POR, GSW

• Highest possible finish: No. 3 seed

• Lowest possible finish: No. 10 seed

What’s at stake: The No. 8 seed and two chances to secure a playoff berth.

9. Portland Trail Blazers (36-37)

• Magic number for No. 9 seed: 9

• Remaining schedule: MIL, DAL, WAS, @LAC, NOP, @DEN, @SAS, LAC, SAC

• Highest possible finish: No. 5 seed

• Lowest possible finish: No. 10 seed

What’s at stake: The No. 8 seed and two chances to secure a playoff berth.

10. Golden State Warriors (33-39)

• Magic number for No. 10 seed: 3

• Remaining schedule: @DAL, BKN, WAS, @DEN, SAS, CLE, HOU, SAC, LAL, @SAC, @LAC

• Highest possible finish: No. 6 seed

• Lowest possible finish: Out of the postseason

What’s at stake: The No. 10 seed and a berth in the play-in tournament.

Still technically alive

12. Memphis Grizzlies (24-47)

Record: 24-47 | Net rating: -3.8 (22nd)

What’s at stake:Lottery odds!

Wednesday’s games of consequence (all times Eastern)

Lakers at Pacers, 7 p.m.

Thunder at Celtics, 7:30 p.m.

Spurs at Grizzlies, 8 p.m.
MEM is eliminated from postseason contention with a loss or a GSW win

Rockets at Timberwolves, 9:30 p.m.

Mavericks at Nuggets, 10 p.m.

Nets at Warriors, 10 p.m.
GSW is locked into the play-in tournament with a loss, a MEM loss and a HOU win

Bucks at Blazers, 10 p.m.

Raptors at Clippers, 10:30 p.m.

Los Angeles Lakers (46–26) vs. Indiana Pacers (16–56) | Game 73 of 82

WHERE TO WATCH AND WHAT TIME

Date: Wednesday, March 25

Tip-off: 4:00 p.m.  

Location: Gainbridge Fieldhouse—Indianapolis, Indiana

TV: NBA TV, Spectrum SportsNet 

Radio: ESPN LA 710 / 1330 KWKW

GAME PREVIEW

The Lakers (45–25) take on the Pacers (16–56) for the final matchup of their six-game road trip.

Los Angeles snapped their nine-game win streak on Tuesday in Detroit in a three-point loss against the Pistons. It was the Lakers' first loss since March 5.

The Lakers look to bounce back in the win column against the Pacers, who have the worst record in the NBA without their star point guard, Tyrese Haliburton, all season.

Dončić had yet another 30-point game, finishing with 32 points, seven rebounds, and six assists.

Dončić has put up 30 or more points in the Lakers' nine-game win streak, including two triple-doubles.

LeBron James failed to score a bucket in the first half in Detroit but still impacted the game in other ways, as he was one rebound shy of a triple-double with 12 points, 10 assists, and nine rebounds.

Rui Hachimura (right calf soreness) and Marcus Smart (right ankle contusion) were out of the lineup in Detroit but both could make their returns in Indiana with upgrades on the injury report. 

Smart is probable and Hachimura is questionable.

The Pacers snapped a 16-game losing streak in their previous contest in a two-point win in Orlando on Monday.

Tonight’s matchup marks the second and final regular-season meeting between the teams this season.

The Lakers are 23-14 on the road, while the Pacers are 6-31 at home.

WHERE THEY STAND

The Lakers still sit at No. 3 in the West at 46-26, with the Nuggets (45-28) right behind them by one and a half games. 

L.A. has to stack wins to secure the third seed with now nine games left.

SCOUTING REPORT

The Lakers' scouting report on Indiana will be limiting Pascal Siakam.

In 57 games this season, Siakam has been the Pacers' leading scorer at 24 points per game. He is coming off a 37-point performance and their success rides on him.

Andrew Nembhard is another guy to look out for who runs their backcourt offense, averaging 17.1 points and 7.4 assists. He had a season-high 14 assists in Orlando.

WHAT TO AVOID

Getting the 3-ball going.

In the Lakers' loss in Detroit, the Lakers shot 28% from 3, making just eight of their 28 shot attempts from deep. 

The Pistons have been the best team at not allowing teams to get hot from 3, allowing the least amount per game this season. The Pacers are right behind as the second-best team in 3-pointers allowed per game.

The Lakers have to avoid another cold night from 3-point range.

NOTABLE OPPONENT RANKS AMONG THE NBA

The Pacers' current ranking:

second-worst (109.5) in offensive rating

26th (118.2) in defensive rating

Other rankings:

• PTS — 27th (111.6)

• FGM — 28th (40.5)

• FG% — 27th (45.4%)

• 3PM — 28th (48%)

• 3P% — 20th (35.1%)

• REB — 26th (41.8)

SEASON SERIES

Game 1 — Lakers 128-117 win vs. Pacers on March. 6

INJURY REPORT

Lakers:

• Rui Hachimura (right calf soreness): Questionable

• Marcus Smart (right ankle soreness): Probable

• Adou Thiero (left knee soreness): Questionable 

Pacers:

• Obi Toppin (right foot injury management): Probable

• Andrew Nembhard (right calf contusion): Probable

• Aaron Nesmith (right ankle injury management): Probable

• Pascal Siakam (right knee sprain): Probable

• Ivica Zubac (fractured rib): Out for season

• Johnny Furphy (torn right ACL): Out for season

• Tyrese Haliburton (right Achilles surgery): Out

THREADS FOR THE GAME

The Lakers will wear their purple Statement Edition uniform on the road, while the Pacers will wear their gold Statement Edition uniform.

NEXT MATCHUP

The Lakers head home with their next three games at Crypto.com Arena against Brooklyn, Washington and Cleveland.

Malachi Smith is sticking around a little longer.

The Nets announced Wednesday they’ve signed Smith to a second 10-day contract, keeping the 26-year-old guard in Brooklyn after a productive first stint that included one of his best nights yet as a pro.

Smith signed his first 10-day on March 14. In six games with the Nets, he averaged 6.2 points, 2.2 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.0 steals in 19.6 minutes per game while shooting 50.0% from the field and 50.0% from 3-point range.

The highlight came March 22 at Sacramento, when Smith posted a career-high 18 points, added two rebounds and four assists, and set a career high with three steals in 29 minutes. For a player who arrived as a call-up, it was a noteworthy performance and an impressive stretch.

Smith’s path to Brooklyn has been the typical G League grind. He joined the Nets from Long Island, where he played 39 Tip-Off Tournament and regular-season games, including 18 starts. He averaged 14.4 points, 4.6 rebounds and 5.7 assists in 28.7 minutes per game, production that put him on the short list for a midseason opportunity.

“Yeah, I don’t want him to overthink it,” Nets head coach Jordi Fernández said of Smith. “I mean, he knows enough of what we’re trying to do. He’s a great, great guy. He’s been in the system, very good teammate, played really hard, played the right way, so I just don’t want him to think too much. His first experience was very positive. That group was great — down 28 to taking the lead is very impressive, how connected they were, how they competed, and that’s the brand of basketball we’re going to play.”

That opportunity has also reflected well on Long Island coach Mfon Udofia, who has now had three players earn NBA call-ups this season, including Smith and Grant Nelson with Brooklyn, and Jeenathan “Nate” Williams, who landed a two-way contract with the Golden State Warriors.

Smith has bounced around the G League before settling into this shot. He spent the previous two seasons in the NBA G League with the Rip City Remix in 2023-24, the Wisconsin Herd in 2024 and the Memphis Hustle in 2024-25. He came to pro basketball after going undrafted in 2023 following a final college season at Gonzaga, where he earned West Coast Conference Sixth Man of the Year honors.

Before Gonzaga, Smith played two seasons at Tennessee Chattanooga from 2020-22 and was named Southern Conference Player of the Year as a junior. He began his college career at Wright State in 2018-19 and made the Horizon League All-Freshman Team.

For the Nets, the second 10-day is simple. Smith produced in his minutes, defended with activity and gave them reliable ballhandling while the roster has churned through injuries and constant rotation experiments. The first deal got him in the door. In his second deal, he has a chance to potentially carve out a future role.

Proposed blockbuster Rangers trade sees Texas land $4.7 million All-Star, 30 SV closer as major upgrade over Robert Garcia originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Texas Rangers are going into the 2026 season with what looks like a closer-by-committee, and Robert Garcia as the first option. If they want to compete, getting a guy who can shut down the other team to win a game is a must. 

Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller believes so as well, and proposes that the Rangers make a deal with the Milwaukee Brewers for their All-Star closer, Trevor Megill. The Brewers are known for trading their star closer a couple years before a payday, and Megill fits that bill as well.

MORE: Astros receive positive extension prediction regarding Jeremy Pena, even with Scott Boras-sized obstacle in the way

The trade would look like this: 

Rangers get: RHP Trevor Megill

Brewers get: TEX No. 2 prospect RHP Caden Scarborough

“One big thing at the heart of the Milwaukee Brewers' staying power on a budget has been A) their ability to develop All-Star closers and B) their willingness to trade away those closers with 1-2 years remaining before they walk for nothing in free agency. They did it with Josh Hader. They did it with Devin Williams. Maybe next they'll do it with Trevor Megill, who has a 2.60 ERA and has saved 51 games over the past two seasons, named an All-Star in 2025…On the Rangers side of things, not having a reliable closer was their undoing in 2025…Thus, it's looking like it'll be Robert Garcia as the first option in a bullpen by committee. But they could address that with one phone call to the Brewers,” Miller wrote. 

MORE: Tigers expected to crush trade rumors surrounding Tarik Skubal after taking chance on No. 2 overall prospect for Opening Day roster

This past season, Megill had a 6-3 record, a 2.49 ERA, 60 Ks, a WHIP of 1.128, and 30 saves in 50 games. He also earned his first All-Star nod, which solidifies him as a top closer in the MLB.

He’s set to make $4.7 million this season, and still has another year of arbitration as well. If he brings success to the Rangers in those two seasons, there’s no reason not to re-sign him.

Hopefully, the Rangers realize what a good deal this is, and get to work on a proposal right away.

MORE MLB NEWS

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Reds receive positive Elly De La Cruz contract extension prediction, even with Scott Boras as superstar's agent

Braves predicted to trade for $4.4 million 17 HR slugger to replace Jurickson Profar, create offensive solution to pitching problem

Tennessee’s linebacker room has generated plenty of buzz this offseason, ignited by the return of Arion Carter. The Volunteers didn’t exactly need another number in the room, but they weren’t going to turn Carter away after he reversed his decision to enter the 2026 NFL Draft.

Penn State veteran Amare Campbell joins him at the position, following his defensive coordinator to Knoxville.

And yet, maybe the most physically gifted player in the room sits on the depth chart beneath those two veterans. Jadon Perlotte, a former 4-star prospect entering his second season with Tennessee, turned plenty of heads down the stretch of last season. His speed brought a completely different element to the defense, which forced his way onto the field in some sub-package situations.

“Just him continuing to learn,” linebackers coach William Inge said on Wednesday of Perlotte. “As you get into, let’s say, Year 1, it’s always going to be knowledge and understanding, you learning everything. Well, now you go into Year 2, now this is truly going to be about performance enhancement and understanding how to take care of your body and take care of your team.”

Perlotte, like the rest of the linebackers not named Amare Campbell, will be learning a new defensive system under Jim Knowles. The 6-4, 210 pound Peach State product posted 13 tackles, one tackle for loss, two fumble recoveries and a quarterback hurry as a true freshman. Perlotte appeared in every game last season, but really made his presence felt late in the year with added playing time.

He possesses some things you can’t teach, like elite athleticism. Watch the ground he covers here chasing down Taylen Green. Green ran a 4.3 at the NFL Combine, for reference.

“So that’s what it’s going to be for him as we refine some of his skills,” Inge said. “Some of his abilities, now being able to go make some of the plays that he wasn’t in a position to be able to make a year ago and eliminate some of the errors that he had that he created a year ago, and being able to be in a position to be able to help our defense be even better this year.”

The Tennessee linebacker group is loaded with as many as eight legitimate guys who could see action. Edwin Spillman is with Perlotte in that second platoon group, along with Jeremiah Telander. Jaedon Harmon could also be in the mix, while big-time prospects TJ White and Braydon Rouse settle in as true freshmen.

One thing is for sure — Jim Knowles and William Inge will have plenty of versatility with this unit this fall. For my money, Perlotte is the most exciting one in the group.

Ohio State pro day live updates, highlights from Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles, Carnell Tate, Caleb Downs and others 2026 NFL Draft workout originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

A program's "Pro Day" is the last group workout before the draft for most prospects. The NFL Scouting Combine was last month and anyone who did not workout in Indianapolis, this is the day circled for most of those remaining prospects. 

Short of individual workouts and an NFL team's allotted "30 visits", this is the last chance to impress scouts. Many players choose the Pro Day over the Combine due to familiarity. The home facility, but also the familiarity of players working out with their teammates as opposed to relative strangers. 

Ohio State will have 17 draft eligible players in attendance. LB Arvell Reese, EDGE Caden Curry, S Caleb Downs, WR Carnell Tate, RB CJ Donaldson Jr, CB Davison Igbinosun, DL Ehtan Onianwa, LB Joey Velazquez, DL Kayden McDonald, CB Lorenzo Styles, TE Max Klare, LB Sonny Styles, DL Tywone Malone Jr, TE Will Kacmarek, as well as a few specialists.

The following information will include drills, measurements and timed tasks (ie 40 yard dash, vertical jump, etc): 

Timed and Measured events

Drill Notes and Analysis (as those drills are completed)

• If it can be believed, Arvell Reese looks even better in the drill work than he did at the Combine. Speed, quickness, power and explosion on full display in Columbus. 

• WR Carnell Tate should be a top 10 pick, while not being the best WR at Ohio State. Tate is showing why he is on most analysts top tier at the position. Body control, hands, footwork and even getting two feet down in bounds for NFL scouts. 

• Carnell Tate declined to do any further testing beyond his work at the Combine. He chose to only run routes and catch passes from Julian Sayin specifically. 

• Senior WR Brandon Inniss, while not projected as a draft pick, is running routes to give WRs like Tate a breather. It helps to simulate situations. Tate is the only draft projected WR working out and it would be counterintuitive for him to be the only player running receiver routes. 

News and Notes from Columbus

• All 32 NFL Teams are expected to attend the Ohio State Pro Day.
• The Saints and Browns have sent a large contingent of team representatives to Columbus for this Pro Day event. 
• Bills General Manager Brandon Beane is in attendance.
• Giants General Manager Joe Schoen, Head Coach John Harbaugh and Defensive Coordinator Dennard Wilson are in attendance.  
• Steelers Assistant General Manager Andy Wiedl is in attendance.
• Dolphins General Manager Eric Sullivan is in attendance. 
• Jets General Manager Darren Mougey, Head Coach Aaron Glenn are in attendance. 
• Commanders General Manager Adam Peters, Head Coach Dan Quinn are in attendance. 
• Bears Head Coach Ben Johnson is in attendance.
• Cowboys Head Coach Brian Schottenheimer is in attendance. 
• Patriots Head Coach Mike Vrabel is in attendance. 
• DL Caden Curry looks very smooth running the 3-cone drill
• TE Will Kacmarek displays better than expected explosion in the short shuttle. 
• Heisman finalist Julian Sayin is not throwing to Buckeyes receivers today. That task will be performed by redshirt freshman QB Tavien St. Clair. 
• LB Arvell Reese looks incredible working against the bags in drill work. 
• CB Lorenzo Styles is on the sidelines sporting what appears to be a shoulder sling. Likely stemming from his shoulder injury suffered against the Miami Hurricanes in the playoff. That injury did not prevent Styles from running a 4.27 at the NFL Scouting Combine

Video and additional reporting

Jayden Fielding getting Pro Day started by pouring one in from 55. He just connected from 60, as well.

Sure! pic.twitter.com/qQIRYp5sE8

— Spencer Holbrook (@SpencerHolbrook) March 25, 2026

Back in the building supporting the squad during Pro Day 🗣️@jacksawyer33 x @JT_Tuimoloaupic.twitter.com/mlf19CBG9k

— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) March 25, 2026

Getting us started in the weight room ➡️ pic.twitter.com/TDks2ktW5I

— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) March 25, 2026

Man in the arena. https://t.co/cLCjQt4ne4pic.twitter.com/vTsQ6kgkfc

— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) March 25, 2026

Even when Jeremiah Smith is not draft eligible, he still draws a crowd of interested parties. 

Ohio State WR Jeremiah Smith taking in some of the #Buckeyes’ pro day today.

He’ll be pretty popular around this time next year. pic.twitter.com/7xRsl6PQ9J

— Brendan Howe (@bybrendanhowe) March 25, 2026

ARVELL REESE 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/Ob06gjEWx3

— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) March 25, 2026

THE Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year going to work 🌰@KMac_DT | #GoBuckspic.twitter.com/5WSVNFpkgK

— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) March 25, 2026

Ohio State defensive coordinator Matt Patricia and New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh embrace at the Buckeyes’ Pro Day. pic.twitter.com/uDple0NLv4

— Sam Cipriani (@SamCipriani89) March 25, 2026

File this under "things Buckeye fans never thought they'd see"^^^ 

Julian Sayin to Carnell Tate: 

Sayin to Tate 🥲 pic.twitter.com/29j02Ix4dF

— Lettermen Row (@LettermenRow) March 25, 2026

Arvell Reese, future top five pick 👀 pic.twitter.com/BfSSMazYyQ

— Lettermen Row (@LettermenRow) March 25, 2026

Basket catch from 17 🎯@carnelltate | #GoBuckspic.twitter.com/UWdczUMJMy

— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) March 25, 2026

Davison Igbinosun and Caleb Downs here at Ohio State Pro Day. pic.twitter.com/0JW4yUmwlt

— Dillon Davis (@DillonDavis56) March 25, 2026

Davison Igbinosun and Caleb Downs here at Ohio State Pro Day. pic.twitter.com/0JW4yUmwlt

— Dillon Davis (@DillonDavis56) March 25, 2026

Julian is out there DOTTING balls to Carnell

This is what I mean… having Julian as your QB on Pro Day is exactly what you want

He’s going to make you look good. He puts the ball anywhere he wants in a clean pocket pic.twitter.com/yyoajJsfF9https://t.co/AA9yYBJSdQ

— Ohio Divided (@BuckeyeNatty) March 25, 2026

No shortage of confidence from Carnell Tate after today’s pro day workout. Asked what he liked about his performance, Tate said he’s the best route-runner in the draft and maybe even in the league. pic.twitter.com/sXmxc5TqQx

— Dillon Davis (@DillonDavis56) March 25, 2026

Carnell Tate hauling in passes from Julian Sayin at Ohio State Pro Day. 👀

Tate is a projected top-10 pick. He has already had pre-draft visits with the Browns, Commanders, Chiefs, Saints, and Giants. pic.twitter.com/6sXwK1lw9e

— Conner Patterson (@conner_p1) March 25, 2026

Davison Igbinosun and Caleb Downs here at Ohio State Pro Day. pic.twitter.com/0JW4yUmwlt

— Dillon Davis (@DillonDavis56) March 25, 2026

Ohio State DB Caleb Downs pro day pic.twitter.com/saxXzegg13

— Theconnectsport (@theconnectsport) March 25, 2026

Arvell Reese spoke to the media in attendance following the workout

2026 Ohio State Pro Day postgame impressions. Here's the defensive heat seeker Arvell Reese. pic.twitter.com/flphTo9rD1

— Clay Hall (@NewDayForClay) March 25, 2026

OSU Head Coach Ryan Day discussed players development 

Ryan Day on Ohio State’s run of first-round talent and why it’s not a coincidence that playing in this city, for this school, and for the fans, prepare guys well.

“I think it’s easy for organizations to look at our guys and project what they’re gonna be going to their teams.” pic.twitter.com/c1TzyElCBc

— Dillon Davis (@DillonDavis56) March 25, 2026

Playmakers. @calebdowns x @carnelltatepic.twitter.com/oYD7D4Z0lZ

— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) March 25, 2026

Compilation of passes and receptions from Pro Day

Julian Sayin and Tavien St. Clair throw to Carnell Tate, Max Klare, Will Kacmarek, C.J. Donaldson, Max Tomczak, Brandon Inniss, David Adolph and Nolan Baudo at Ohio State’s pro day. pic.twitter.com/GBVWuCpDD3

— Eleven Warriors (@11W) March 25, 2026

Julian Sayin and Tavien St. Clair throw to Carnell Tate, Max Klare, Will Kacmarek, C.J. Donaldson, Max Tomczak, Brandon Inniss, David Adolph and Nolan Baudo at Ohio State’s pro day. pic.twitter.com/GBVWuCpDD3

— Eleven Warriors (@11W) March 25, 2026

Caleb Downs Interview:

Arvell Reese Interview:

Lorenzo Styles Jr Interview:

Trending Topics:

• Ohio State's Pro Day includes four of the top ten players on Mel Kiper's current Big Board. Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles, Caleb Downs and Carnell Tate. 

• Since the NFL Scouting Combine, one of the largest stories to track has been Safety Caleb Downs reported injury issue. While no official media outlets have refuted the status of the injury, many have claimed it is not a long term issue and Downs should be fine for the NFL offseason program. However, according to Yahoo Sports, Downs' family and some NFL insiders are pushing back on the injury being an issue. 
• Sonny Styles, arguably the biggest winner from the NFL Scouting Combine has moved up to No. 4 overall to the Tennessee Titans in the latest PFF mock draft. Citing Styles' long and rangy ability fits a Robert Saleh mold. 
• Following a Combine performance that was objectively underwhelming, DT Kayden McDonald is giving a very different performance during the Pro Day. Powerful, nimble, and unlike the Combine, no glaring missteps or stumbles as of yet. 

More college football news: 

• Jordon Hudson turns heads with 'barely there' rope dress at Maine charity event
• USC asked Heisman winner to unretire jersey several times: 'Absolutely f-ing not'
• Deion Sanders buyout, contract details as Colorado Buffaloes coach
• Steve Sarkisian blasts Ohio State players for not going to class
• Ohio State's Ryan Day faces backlash after NFL Combine

FearBuck: Kevin Porter Jr. tells Deshae Frost’s chat he’s trying to beat Bam Adebayo’s 83 points for the respect of Kobe Bryant. “Now that Kobe got beat, I gotta beat Bam just for the respect of Kobe”

Twitter

Kevin Porter Jr. tells Deshae Frost’s chat he’s trying to beat Bam Adebayo’s 83 points for the respect of Kobe Bryant.

“Now that Kobe got beat, I gotta beat Bam just for the respect of Kobe” pic.twitter.com/at8sib0l11

— FearBuck (@FearedBuck) March 25, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Kevin Porter Jr. says he will try to beat Bam Adebayo's record out of respect for Kobe Bryant

Anthony Slater: The Warriors are signing center Ömer Yurtseven to a second 10-day contract, per source. He played 56 minutes off the bench for them on his first 10-day contract in a depleted frontcourt. Al Horford remains out with a calf strain.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Warriors to sign Omer Yurtseven to second 10-day contract

Legion Hoops: Jaylen Brown calls out players and fans who’ve switched up on the 65-game rule: The contrary in the past was that guys would be playing 40-50 games and be up for All-NBA, and their numbers would be better versus somebody who played 68-72 games… You basically came to work half the time and got awarded for it.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: The contrary in the past was that guys would be …

Governor Bob Ferguson: For two decades, Washingtonians have mourned the loss of our Sonics. Today’s vote is a milestone in the effort to bring NBA basketball back home. The time is right. The state-of-the-art Climate Pledge Arena already hosts professional basketball and hockey with the Storm, Kraken, and Torrent in front of a dedicated fanbase. And we know we have the best fans in the NBA. Bringing the Sonics back is a top priority, and the state will be a strong partner in this effort. I plan to be there at tipoff with thousands of fellow fans when the Sonics return.

x.com

Breaking: The NBA's Board of Governors has approved a vote for the league to explore bids and applicants for expansion teams exclusively in Las Vegas and Seattle, sources tell ESPN. A bidding process is expected to generate offers in the $7-10 billion range for each team. pic.twitter.com/yEaLPjnTVf

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 25, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: The time is right. The state-of-the-art Climate Pledge …

Jordan Walsh knew that his Celtics team was going to be just fine. In the offseason, when many in the media and the public predicted the Celtics would end up a lottery team, Walsh could only laugh. “As soon as I started hearing people talking about losing and tanking and all that stuff, I immediately knew that that was never gonna be us,” Walsh told CelticsBlog at a PIMCO-sponsored dinner at the Lawrence Boys and Girls Club.

Celtics Blog

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “As soon as I started hearing people talking about …