Over the course of the last year or so, the New Orleans Saints have finally started to lean into more of a rebuilding phase, which has allowed them to trade a few key pieces away for draft compensation. After many years of trying to remain competitive post-Drew Brees, they finally decided it was time to really turn into a new core, focusing on draft success and having the opportunity to build a much younger roster.

While they still have some very crucial veterans on the team, they have also traded away players like Marshon Lattimore and Rashid Shaheed in favor of picks. The latter was a tough call to make, given he was still showcasing high-level success, but he was also in the final year of his deal and would likely not be re-signed by the Saints long-term, so they decided a pick was better for their future.

After moving on to the Seattle Seahawks, Shaheed has had a few up-and-down months. While he started off a bit slow in the regular season, he has made an absolutely enormous impact on the team in the playoffs.

In two playoff games, he has a 51-yard reception, three rushes for 27 yards, 4 punt returns for 210 yards and a touchdown, as well as 14 kick returns for 418 yards and a touchdown. He kicked off the Divisional Round with a bang against the San Francisco 49ers, returning a kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown.

WHAT JUST HAPPENED?! @RashidShaheed on the opening play 🤯

📺: @NFLonFoxpic.twitter.com/ZzMrFLI9l9

— xz* - Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) January 18, 2026

He has always had big-play potential, and that has been a core element of his game throughout his four seasons in the NFL. While it is tough to see him doing it for another NFC team, it is good to see him have the opportunity to compete for a Super Bowl now. In only a few years, he has gone from an undrafted returner out of Weber State to a focal point of a Super Bowl roster.

This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Former Saints WR Rashid Shaheed has been everything Seahawks hoped for

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 4 (UPI) -- Injured New England Patriots linebacker Robert Spillane expects to play against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX, he told reporters Wednesday.

Spillane made the comment during the Patriots' team media availability at the Santa Clara Marriott. The Patriots' leading tackler missed their final four games of the season due to an ankle injury, which he aggravated in the Patriots' win over the Denver Broncos in the AFC title game.

Spillane did not practice last week. The Patriots will release their first injury report of this week after Wednesday's practice at Stanford University.

Spillane, 30, totaled a team-high 97 combined tackles, five passes defensed, four tackles for a loss, two interceptions, a forced fumble and a sack over 13 starts this season. He registered 14 combined tackles and two passes defensed in the Patriots three playoff appearances.

The Patriots will battle the Seahawks in Super Bowl LX at 3:30 p.m. PST Wednesday in Santa Clara.

Why James Harden trade has Cavaliers fans even more excited about a LeBron James reunion originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

With the NBA trade deadline transpiring by the minute, there are also other rumors that have released on potential moves to some of the league's biggest stars.

In recent days, one of those stories has been behind upcoming unrestricted free agent LeBron James.

The current Los Angeles Lakers forward is set to take on the market after this season, and recent reports have suggested that the Cleveland Cavaliers could be the team that James rejoins this coming offseason. 

James Harden and Donovan Mitchell are expected to help recruit LeBron James to the Cavaliers

Recent stories have picked up, and newly acquired superstar James Harden, along with Donovan Mitchell, are supposed to be two of the recruiters who will help persuade LeBron James to sign in Cleveland, sources told Cavaliers Nation.

These are convincing rumors, but there haven't been any other insiders who have confirmed this yet.

Cleveland traded for Harden on Tuesday night and also acquired guards Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder from the Sacramento Kings over the weekend, hinting at the franchise's desire to be in a win-now situation.

With a new trio of him, alongside Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley, the next step could be LeBron James.

It will be up to the future Hall of Famer to decide on whether or not he wants to continue to be with the Lakers, possibly retire, or conclude his legendary career with the team that he started it all with.

Jake Fischer of the Stein Line has already mentioned that he believes the Lakers and James are "ready to move on from each other."

Cleveland would be the most fitting for James, but it's safe to assume that there will be multiple options for the 22-time All-Star moving forward.

More Cavaliers news:

• James Harden breaks silence on trade from Clippers to Cavaliers

• Where will Lonzo Ball go? Three teams that could snag the Cavaliers' former star point guard after being waived by the Jazz

• Is Dennis Schroder playing tonight? What to know about Cavs debuts after Kings trade, including Keon Ellis

David Peralta, who hit .278 in an 11-year big league career that included nine seasons with the Arizona Diamondbacks, announced his retirement on Wednesday.

Peralta, 38, did not play in 2025 and posted his decision to retire on social media.

“Thank you to the Arizona Diamondbacks organization for making my dreams come true, believing in me and giving me the opportunity to play the best baseball in the world,” Peralta said before also thanking the Tampa Bay Rays, Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres for his time with those teams late in his career.

Peralta won a Silver Slugger in 2018, when he hit .293 with 30 homers and 87 RBIs for the Diamondbacks. The outfielder won a Gold Glove the following season.

Peralta, a native of Venezuela, made his major league debut with Arizona in 2014 and hit .312 while leading the majors with 10 triples in 2015.

Peralta hit .267 in 91 games with San Diego in 2024 after hitting .259 for the Dodgers in 2023.

___

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

There’s no question that New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye will be ready to play in Sunday’s game against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX.

“I’m feeling great. I’m so fortunate to be out here with these guys,” he told reporters on Wednesday.

The 23-year-old coughed in between questions, but he emphasized he was looking forward to getting back out there for a normal week of practice before the big game, after sitting out last week’s practice due to a shoulder injury and illness.

Although the week leading up to the Super Bowl is nothing but normal to most.

“Felt good Monday, looking forward to getting back out there today and tomorrow, and Friday and having a normal week - so looking forward to that, and feeling good,” he said.

On Tuesday, head coach Mike Vrabel said he thought the week started off great in California, praising his quarterback for why the Patriots were competitors in the Super Bowl in the first place.

“His success and his performance are a large part of why we’re here,” he stated.

10 years ago, the young quarterback was sitting in the same stadium, just in a different position than he is now. His dad took him to watch Super Bowl 50 - the game was the Carolina Panthers versus the Denver Broncos. He was just 13 years old at the time.

“My dad was fortunate enough to bring me out here and have the chance to watch the Super Bowl as a young kid and just knowing that I’m here now - is a full circle moment,” he said.

“And just thanks to my dad for making a middle school kid’s dream come true and now I get a chance to make my own dream come true,” he said.

Wednesday and Thursday’s practice days are the most important, emphasized Maye and Vrabel, saying it was the time for the team to be all hands-on deck.

The last couple of practices would be dedicated to what they’ve been working on all season, said Maye, but making sure they were fine-tuning their plays and game plan.

“We already have a game plan in, but make sure we try and execute it and just fine tune what we’ve been working on all season and that’s bring our identity on the road,” said Maye.

“We want to make sure that now they’re stimulated, they’re engaged, they’re locked in, moving forward here - first, second, and third, red zone in situations...so that’s why I think the next 48 hours I think will be really important,” said Vrabel.

“I said I’m not excited at all, I feel like excitement is a little different emotion. Right now, I just want to work,” said Wide Receiver Stefon Diggs, wearing an “I Need A Hug” sweatshirt at the podium speaking to the media.

“We got three days for practice, four days for preparation, I just feel like take it one day at a time - don’t make it for more or less than what it is, but I got to have the same mindset I’ve been having,” he said.

Maye has been highly praised for his attitude throughout the season and the way he has carried the team, by legends like Tom Brady, and by his teammates, including those like Diggs who has been a veteran in the NFL compared to Maye.

“He’s still super young, but he’s had a lot of success, but as I’ve grown closer to him, I’m a huge fan of him,” he said.

“He’s like a mini-inspiration to be that young, to be that mature, and to be able to play at a high level is something that I’ve always wanted as a young player,” he continued.

“I think now that I’m in the NFL I’m trying to model my game after myself,” said Maye.

“I wouldn’t say I try to model my game after anybody anymore. I’m at the stage where I’m an NFL quarterback, I’m trying to make a name for myself,” he said.

Maye also emphasized that he’s super thankful for the fans who have supported the team all season, speaking of the “I love Drake Maye” shirts that have gone viral online.

“I think it’s something that even my wife had started to wear - I try not to tell her to wear it, but I think like I said many times the way the Boston, New England area has embraced me and embraced us this year as a team has just been special,” he said.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ann Michael Maye (@annmichaelhmaye)

“There’s no better fan base that I’ve ever played for. And I’m just so fortunate to be in my position to get a chance for kids to look up to me and just try to be myself and get a chance to shine a light on things that are bigger than football,” he said.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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Gavin McKenna, the potential No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL draft, was arrested and charged with felony aggravated assault and a misdemeanor charge of simple assault, plus summary offenses for disorderly conduct and harassment following an altercation on Saturday, according to Onward State.

The 18-year-old Penn State freshman forward was reportedly at a downtown State College, Pennsylvania bar with the team and friends and family following the Nittany Lions' outdoor game at Beaver Stadium against Michigan State. It's unknown how the altercation began, but McKenna reportedly broke the jaw of an unidentified individual.

According to the Pennsylvania court docket, McKenna is awaiting a preliminary hearing on the matter.

In July, McKenna announced that he would be attending Penn State following three seasons with the Medicine Hat Tigers of the Western Hockey League, one of three leagues that makes up the Canadian Hockey League. The move was made possible after the NCAA's ruling that allowed CHL players to play collegiately.

Through 24 games this season, McKenna has 11 goals and 32 points for the Nittany Lions, who are in third place in the Big Ten. He was recently ranked as the No. 1 North American skater by NHL Central Scouting ahead of June's NHL draft. 

NBA insider puts surprising timeline on Giannis Antetokounmpo trade originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The clock is ticking, and in less than 24 hours, the NBA trade deadline will hit.

But teams interested in trading for Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo have even less time than that to put together their best offers for Milwaukee to evaluate.

MORE: NBA insider reveals one obstacle standing between Giannis Antetokounmpo and Cavaliers trade

Speaking on NBA Today, ESPN insider and former Brooklyn Nets assistant general manager Bobby Marks said that by midnight Wednesday night, there will have to be a "framework" of an Antetokounmpo trade in place.

Otherwise, Antetokounmpo might stay put.

"There’s a lot of moving parts here, and I think there’s going to have to be a framework of a Giannis type trade by midnight for something to happen by tomorrow," Marks said.

"We're going to know if there's a Giannis deal in the next 8 hours. ... There's a lot of moving parts here and I think there's gonna have to be a framework of a Giannis type trade by midnight tonight."

- Bobby Marks 👀

(via @ESPNNBA)pic.twitter.com/40kwC3KusT

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 4, 2026

Fellow NBA insider Brian Windhorst revealed that the Miami Heat and the Golden State Warriors have submitted attractive offers that the Bucks could accept in the next several hours.

"Miami has an offer that they could take," Windhorst said. "I think Golden State's offer is better, because the unprotected picks, post-Steph, I value more. But the Miami offer, which has young players and a couple of draft picks in it, they could take that offer. Especially if Giannis wants to do it."

But any Antetokounmpo trade hinges on the two-time MVP signaling his willingness to sign an extension with his new team. So, if his heart is set on heading to Minnesota and playing for the Timberwolves, Antetokounmpo may have to wait until the summer to begin the next chapter of his career.

More NBA news:

• Timberwolves get exciting news on possible Giannis Antetokounmpo trade to help Anthony Edwards

• Is Chris Paul good? Raptors trade reignites talk about 12-time All-Star's future

• Ja Morant trade rumor is excellent news for Anthony Edwards and Timberwolves

• Why Cavs' trade of Lonzo Ball to the Jazz is important despite nothing in return

Rays pressed to reunite with this durable starting pitcher originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The 2025 season was an odd ne fot eh Tampa Bay Rays. They were forced to play at the New York yankees sprting training home, Steinbrenner Field, after Hurricane Milton severely damaged Tropicana Field.  

It was a new environment for the team with new dimensions that they had to learn. On top of that, the starpower on their roster compared to the rest of the AL East was nearly incomparable. 

Ty finished the season with a 77-85 record, missing the postseason for the second year in a row. And with what the rest of the teams in the AL East have done so far this offseason, it will be an uphill battle for this team in 2026. 

MORE: The Rays love 3-team trades, proven by this insane stat

Rays pressed to reunite with this durable starting pitcher

One name that has started to pick up steam lately has been Zack Littell. He is one of the few starting pitchers still left on the open market. 

He is coming off a season split between the Rays and the Cincinnati Reds, where he posted a 10-8 record with a 3.81 ERA across 186.2 innings of work. 

Littell was a part of the three-team trade that sent him to Cincinnati. The Rays received Hunter Feduccia and Brian Van Belle, while the Los Angeles Dodgers received Adam Serwinowski, Paul Gervase, and Ben Rortvedt. 

Bleacher Report's Tim Kelly believes a reunion here would be great.

"It's fair to say Littell probably won't be returning to the Reds, though a reunion with the Rays makes quite a bit of sense."

The Rays do not have a lot of proven arms besides Shane McClanahan and Ryan Pepiot. Littell is a proven strike thrower and someone who can go deep into games. 

On top of that, he is already comfortable with the organization. So, don't be surprised if you see these two coming to terms on a deal soon. 

More MLB news:

• Braves viewed as an ideal landing spot for this veteran swingman pitcher
• Yankees urged to come to terms with former All-Star pitcher to help bolster rotation
• Diamondbacks are in the driver's seat on this free agent arm
• The arrival of Munetaka Murakami leads to a big clubhouse change
• MLB analyst puts the spotlight on Alek Manoah in the Angels rotation

Clippers' Darius Garland breaks silence on stunning Cavaliers trade with emotional message originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The NBA trade deadline doesn’t close until Thursday at 3 p.m. EST, but the drama has already been sky-high this week, with several deals already completed.

While all eyes remain on the Giannis Antetokounmpo sweepstakes and whether the Milwaukee Bucks will trade their two-time MVP, the biggest deal so far is arguably the Cleveland Cavaliers sending star point guard Darius Garland and a second-round pick to the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for veteran guard James Harden — a move that happened quickly after trade rumors surfaced.

Now, less than 24 hours after the deal, Garland has broken his silence about leaving Cleveland in an emotional message on Instagram:

"Dear Cleveland, I'll never forget the night I was drafted to Cleveland back in 2019 and everything I've gained since. This city taught me more than I could've imagined. To the coaches, staff, front office, the Gilbert family, my teammates, and the fans — thank you for the love and support. Cleveland will always be a second home, and I'll carry these memories with me forever.

—Always love, 10"

MORE: Why Cavs' trade of Lonzo Ball to the Jazz is important despite nothing in return

The Cavaliers were the No. 1 overall seed in the Eastern Conference less than a year ago, but injuries and Garland’s inability to stay on the court forced them to reevaluate.

They are now looking to maximize their window to compete for a championship while the East remains wide open — and in their eyes, acquiring a player like Harden gives them the best chance to do so.

This season, Garland has played in 26 games, averaging 18.0 points and 6.9 assists, while Harden, 36, is averaging 25.4 points, 8.1 assists and 4.8 rebounds.

Coincidentally, the Cavaliers are scheduled to play the Clippers on Wednesday night; however, both players have already been ruled out.

More NBA news: 

• Lakers exploring trade for $46.8 million former Knicks, Warriors sharpshooting guard, per report
• Derrick Jones Jr., Isaac Okoro among Lakers trade targets
• Is Chris Paul good? Raptors trade reignites talk about 12-time All-Star's future

Right after LSU football tabbed Lane Kiffin as its next head football coach, Kiffin was quick to assemble his own staff. One of the first hires was general manager Billy Glasscock, who worked alongside Kiffin in the same role at Ole Miss.

Kiffin met with the media for the first time since is introduction on Wednesday and went into detail on Glasscock's importance to LSU.

In the new era of college sports, where a head coach has to balance so many things all at once as the transfer portal approaches, a GM is critical, Kiffin said.

"Why would you not have a general manager that helps run the entire building with you, and if you look at, I think the best runs in the NFL over time, it's head coaches and general managers that work together, they're not placed together, they work together," Kiffin said.

Kiffin pointed to the success he and Glasscock had at Ole Miss, saying they work "extremely well" together.

"I know that I can go get on a plane, to go to schools and go recruit, and I know everything's going to be handled extremely well in this building, and usually the decisions are going to be made exactly how I would think to make them," Kiffin said.

Glasscock joined Kiffin with the Rebels in 2024. Before his stop in Oxford, Glasscock worked in Texas's personnel department for three seasons. Glasscock was key in assembling LSU's transfer portal class, which ranks among the best in the nation.

This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: Kiffin on why LSU's new GM is critical for college football success

Bay Area students were told they were going to a financial literacy conference. They had no idea they were going to meet entrepreneur, record-setting running back for the San Francisco 49ers and the 2023 Offensive Player of the Year Christian McCaffrey.

Inside the San Francisco Marriott Marquis, hundreds of students filled the ballroom for the Intuit for Education event, part of the brand's push during Super Bowl week to elevate financial literacy. When McCaffrey walked on stage, the crowd erupted.

Phones shot up and the noise echoed like a home-game touchdown at Levi's Stadium.

Super Bowl 60 updates: Latest news, events for Patriots vs. Seahawks.

But once the cheering settled, the 49ers star turned the attention to why they were all there: learning about money before it matters most.

McCaffrey, interviewed by Greg Johnson, Intuit's executive vice president and chief commercial officer, began by telling students he wished programs like this existed when he was in high school.

"First off, it's great to be here, man," McCaffrey said. "I think it's such an amazing opportunity that you guys get to learn about financial literacy at this age. I really wish I had something like this back when I was your guys' age. It's a huge deal."

He talked openly about the whiplash of going from college debt to sudden wealth. He entered the league at 20, jumping almost overnight from owing money for parking tickets to an NFL salary.

Widely regarded as the best running back in football, McCaffrey agreed to a two-year extension with the San Francisco 49ers in 2024 that averaged $19 million per year. The deal gave him an additional $8 million over his previous contract, a significant raise from the $16 million per year he had been making.

"The biggest piece of advice I would say for you guys before you get your first paycheck is learn the language of money," he said.

To McCaffrey, "learning the language" means more than understanding terms. It means finding wise people to serve as financial advisors, especially those who have failed and learned how to invest.

Some of the best questions came when Johnson opened up the mic to students, including the one every teenager wanted to ask: What did the football pro do when he saw his first million-dollar check?

His answer surprised them.

"I didn't even look at it. I just kept working," he said. "I don't play football for money, and I don't play football even for accolades. I never have, and I never will. I think a lot of times I've found that guys that want the accolades and want the money, they're out of the league in two or three years. But the guys that love the game, ironically, are the ones that get the money and the accolades."

That practical, grounded approach is exactly why David Zasada, the Vice President of Education and Corporate Responsibility at Intuit, said.

"For kids, they don't normally think about being financially literate until they're making serious financial decisions that could impact them for a long period of time," Zasada said. "Preparation in sports in order to be successful on game day, preparation in high school around financial literacy so you can be successful after you cross the graduation stage."

The mix of NFL star power and real-world financial lessons was the whole point.

Zasada noted that 30 states now mandate personal finance courses, often with no training, no curriculum and no funding. Intuit created this tour to equip students and teachers with tools they may not get anywhere else.

"Everything we do is for free, all the professional development we do for teachers is free and all these events are free," he said.

Still, the moment that drew the biggest laugh — and maybe the sharpest lesson — came when a student asked the entrepreneur about his first big purchase.

"I bought an Aston Martin, matte black," he said. "You all are clapping, but I sold it a year later because I never drove it. Cars don't go up in value. It was really cool. It looked good. When I pulled up, people talked about it. And then I came to the point where I thought, 'This is so dumb.'"

Bryan West is a music reporter at The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network. Follow him on Instagram, TikTok and X as @BryanWestTV.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Financial literacy lessons from 49ers' Christian McCaffrey

Both Deontay Wilder and Derek Chisora appeared on talkSPORT today to discuss their officially announced April 4 fight in London. Much of the interview was pretty standard stuff, but things took a turn when Wilder was specifically asked about Tyson Fury. Wilder interjected to say that he didn’t want to discuss Fury at all as the focus should only be on his upcoming fight with Chisora, but after he continued to be pressed on the subject anyway, Wilder reverted back to old form before storming out of the interview altogether.

Wilder would insist on his position that Fury is boxing’s biggest cheater, that his water bottle had been spiked, and that he was betrayed by a former trainer in Mark Breland, before sounding off on host Simon Jordan for having a difficult time taking his word as a black man over Fury’s, a white man. Jordan would deny that race had anything to do with it, but that simply isn’t the lens Wilder see things through and he let that be known at a very high volume.

So after Wilder berated Jordan for a few minutes, with a little help and instigation from Chisora, he just couldn’t dial it down enough to continue on with the interview and opted to leave in the moment. You can watch the full interview in the video above by scrubbing back, or skip straight to the theatrics as I have it timestamped for when it really takes off!

The NFL offseason hasn’t even started, but the speculation regarding Maxx Crosby’s future with the Las Vegas Raiders, which has been percolating since December, just went into high gear.

Noted and highly respected NFL insider Jay Glazer, who has said he talks to Crosby, told Yahoo Sports on Wednesday that he expected Crosby to be traded before the draft. Glazer said the reason will be because Crosby wants out because he doesn’t want to go through another rebuild, which the Raiders will be embarking on under new coach Klint Kubiak.

Earlier Wednesday, The Athletic’s Dianna Russini said Crosby has told her he’d like to play for Mike Vrabel in New England.

Crosby’s future became in question in late December when the team shut him down for the final two games because of a knee injury that he ended up having surgery for. Crosby said he wants to play and briefly left the team because of his anger. He has often said he was tiring of losing and he wants to win now.

Crosby, who turns 29 in August, is one of the NFL’s best overall defensive ends. he excels against the pass and the run.

Glazer said he thinks the Raiders will get more for Crosby than the Dallas Cowboys got from the Green Bay Packers just before the season for star pass-rusher Micah Parson. Dallas received two first-round picks and 3-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kenny Clark in the deal. That may be difficult to go since Parsons was 26 at the time of the trade and the fact that Crosby has been dealing with injuries in recent years.

However, getting two first-round picks seems very doable. Plus, basically, the entire NFL will be interested in Crosby, so there could be a bidding war. Trading Crosby would be difficult for the Raiders, but for a team starting a rebuild, this could be a good way of getting better faster.

Seattle Seahawks reserve safety Ty Okada has emerged from the practice squad and become a key part of one of the best secondaries in the NFL.

During Super Bowl media availability on Wednesday, Okada spoke to Field Gulls about the journey from an undrafted free agent out of Montana State to the cusp of a Lombardi Trophy.

“Reflecting on it, I feel very blessed on the journey,” Okada said. “I wouldn’t change it for the world. I’m extremely grateful for the Seahawks organization giving me an opportunity to play in the NFL and just being around this amazing group of guys. It’s surreal and very special and I’m just very thankful for it.”

Okada has been called into action heavily this year, making 11 starts whether for Julian Love or Coby Bryant. The Seahawks defense looked like it didn’t miss a beat, with Okada recording a sack of C.J. Stroud against the Houston Texans and making a terrific interception versus the Washington Commanders. One of the coaches he praised for developing him along the way is Karl Scott, a holdover from the Pete Carroll staff and current defensive backs/passing game coordinator.

“I’m so thankful for coach K-Scott,” Okada said. “He’s been with me since my rookie year. I was very thankful that he stuck around.

“He’s the ultimate teacher. He does such a great job of coaching us up in the DB room. The way he communicate—he’s so clear and concise. The way he communicates, he’s an awesome coach, an awesome person, so I’m extremely thankful to learn from him since my rookie year.”

While Okada’s defensive snaps are limited when Bryant and Love are healthy, he still sees major playing time on special teams, where Seattle has been supreme throughout 2025.

“I always think about it like this: I look at myself as a force multiplier,” Okada said. “Whatever the coaches ask of me, whatever my role is each day and each week, I want to do it to the best of my ability and help put my teammates in the best possible position to also find success.

“When I’m out there on special teams, I’m like, ‘This is awesome.’ What else can I ask for but to have an opportunity to come out and play in the NFL and go make an impact on special teams? So just very thankful for every opportunity I’ve been given, week in and week out.”

We’ll have more to come from this interview and others later Wednesday and on Thursday.

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.

The 2026 Winter Olympics are upon us, and there are some notable changes coming for ice hockey. This will mark the first tournament in over a decade in which NHL players will participate, following previous disputes between the League and the Olympic Committee. This year, the U.S. men’s team will be made up of players from across the NHL.

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Team USA will look to make a medal push after the men’s team won at the Ice Hockey World Championships — if they win gold, it’ll be the first time since the 1980 “Miracle on Ice” that saw the USA triumph over the Soviet Union.

At a Glance: How to Watch Hockey at the Olympics

• Channels: NBC, USA, CNBC
• Streaming: Peacock, DirecTV
• Dates: Feb. 5 – Feb. 22

On the women’s side, Team USA has long been one of the most dominant teams, having medaled at every event since its creation in 1998, including gold in 1998 and 2018. Four-time Olympic medalist Hilary Knight, who currently plays for the Seattle Torrent of the PWHL, will captain Team USA’s Olympic women’s team.

Peacock

sign up now

If you’re looking to stream the Olympics, every event will air on Peacock. Select events will air on USA and CNBC, with later rounds airing on NBC. Peacock does not offer a free trial. Plans start at $10.99/mo.

---

DirecTV

get free trial

NBCUniversal networks are also available on DirecTV with a five-day free trial. However, not every game will be carried on network television.

---

Milan is six hours ahead of New York, and many of the preliminary rounds start early in the day. Later rounds air in the early afternoon, Eastern Time.

Women’s hockey begins with preliminaries on Feb. 5, while the men’s preliminaries begin on Feb. 11. You can check out key dates for the men’s and women’s competitions below.

Men’s Hockey Schedule:

Preliminaries: Feb. 11 – Feb 15
Qualification playoff: Feb. 17
Quarterfinal: Feb. 18
Semifinal: Feb. 20
Bronze medal game: Feb. 21
Gold medal game: Feb. 22

Women’s Hockey Schedule

Preliminaries: Feb. 5 – Feb. 10
Quarterfinals: Feb. 13 – Feb. 14
Semifinals: Feb. 16
Bronze medal game: Feb. 19
Gold medal game: Feb. 19

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The EuroLeague Women play-ins are set

Fenerbahçe Opet, Galatasaray Çağdaş Faktoring, Basket Landes, Spar Girona, ZVVZ USK Praha, Umana Reyer Venezia, Beretta Famila Schio and Casademont Zaragoza have advanced to the play-ins, keeping them in the hunt for the 2026 championship.

Schio claimed the final spot from Group E, defeating Bourges 77-69 in their head-to-head battle. Schio led for the majority of the contest, benefitting from a 4-for-5 performance from 3 and 18 total points from Kitija Laksa. Jessica Shepard added 13 points and seven boards for the winning side.

Schio joins the other three clubs that already had punched their play-in ticket from Group E: Galatasaray, Girona and Praha.

From Group F, Venezia and Zaragoza will advance alongside Fenerbahçe and Landes, as Venezia defeated Valencia, 69-55, and Zaragoza took care of business against DVTK HUNTHERM, 66-40. Venezia earned the wire-to-wire win with Kaila Charles putting up a 14-point and 11-rebound double-double, while Zaragoza got contributions from up and down the roster on their way to their comfortable win.

When the EuroLeague Women play-ins begin on Wednesday, Feb. 18, the eight remaining clubs will be fighting for a spot in the Final Six.

The No. 1 and No. 2 seeds from Groups E and F are guaranteed to make the Final Six, but they must participate in a best-of-three semi-final play-in series to determine if their journey toward a title will begin with a bye to the semi-finals of the Final Six playoff bracket, of if their quest will have to start in the quarter-finals.

The No. 1 seed from Group E, Galatasaray, will play the No. 2 seed from Group F, Landes, while the No. 1 seed from Group F, Fenerbahçe will play Girona, the No. 2 seed from Group E. The winners of the best-of-three series will get the coveted byes to semis.

The No. 3 and No. 4 seeds from Groups E and F must earn a berth in the Final Six by winning their best-of-three quarter-final play-in series. The No. 3 seed from Group E, defending champion Praha, will play the No. 4 seed from Group F, Zaragoza. Venezia, the No. 3 seed from Group F, is matched up with Schio, the No. 4 seed from Group E.

Gameday 12 results

Group E

• Galatasaray Çağdaş Faktoring 67, Spar Girona 57
• ZVVZ USK Praha 88, Flammes Carolo Basket 70
• Beretta Familia Schio 77, Tango Bourges Basket 69

Group F

• Fenerbahçe Opet 78, Basket Landes 69
• Umana Reyer Venezia 69, Valencia Basket Club 55
• Casademont Zaragoza 66, DVTK HUNTHERM 40

Barcelona booked their place in the last four of the 2025-26 Copa del Rey on Tuesday night by beating Albacete 2-1 thanks to goals from Lamine Yamal and Ronald Araujo.

The win puts the Catalan giants into the semi-finals for the 16th time in the last 20 years and on track to successfully defend the title they won last year.

Barcelona will discover their next opponents when the draw for the last four is made on Friday, February 6th at 1pm CET.

Here are the remaining teams left in the competition.

Barcelona

Athletic Club

Real Sociedad

Real Betis or Atletico Madrid (playing tomorrow)

The two semi-finals will be two legged-affairs and are scheduled for 10-12 February and 3-5 March, with the winners going on to the final at La Cartuja in Seville in April.

Who do you want Barcelona to face next in the competition? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Lindsey Vonn has continued to defy belief after confirming her participation in the Winter Olympics despite injury.

Skiing legend Vonn has suffered a torn ACL just days before the 2026 Winter Olympics get underway in Italy.

She crashed in the final World Cup race before the event in Milano Cortina, which forced her to be airlifted to hospital in Switzerland.

Despite the major setback, the 41-year-old American has confirmed on social media that she will take part in the competition.

Iga Swiatek sends inspirational message to injured Lindsey Vonn

Vonn wrote on Instagram: “Well… I completely tore my ACL last Friday. I also sustained a bone bruise (which is a common injury when you tear your ACL), plus meniscal tears but it’s unclear how much of that was there previously and what was new from the crash.

“This was obviously incredibly hard news to receive one week before the Olympics. I really appreciate everyone giving me time and space to process what happened and find a way forward.

“After extensive consultations with doctors, intense therapy, physical tests as well as skiing today, I have determined I am capable of competing in the Olympic Downhill on Sunday.

“Of course I will still need to do one training run, as is required to race on Sunday, but… I am confident in my body’s ability to perform.

“Despite my injuries my knee is stable, I do not have swelling and my muscles are firing and reacting as they should.

“I will obviously be continuing to evaluate with my medical team on a daily basis to make sure we are making smart decisions but I have every intention of competing on Sunday.

“I know what my chances in these Olympics were before this crash, and even though my chances aren’t the same now, there is still a chance. And as long as I have a chance, I will not lose hope. I will not give up! It’s not over yet!”

“Thank you to everyone who has reached out and supported me. I feel the love and it is giving me strength.”

And that message has been shared by tennis icon Iga Swiatek, who wrote on her Instagram story: “As long as you fight, you are the winner Lindsey Vonn.”

Jessica Pegula and Kim Clijsters show support for Lindsey Vonn

Swiatek isn’t the only tennis star to show up in support of Vonn, with Jessica Pegula and Kim Clijsters doing the same.

Commenting on her post, Pegula wrote: “Warrior let’s go,” with Clijsters writing: “Let’s go Lindsey! Love you.”

Other famous faces such as David Beckham and Rebel Wilson are among the long list of people also showing love for the hugely popular Vonn.

She certainly deserves all of that love given her tremendous fighting spirit, which she will definitely need to compete in the coming days.

READ MORE:Belinda Bencic and Elina Svitolina make tennis history after the Australian Open

Villanova Wildcats 16-5 (7-3) vs Seton Hall Pirates 16-6 (6-5)

Where: Finneran Pavilion (Villanova, PA)

When: Wednesday, Feb. 4 at 6:30 PM

Betting Line: Villanova -7.5 (subject to change)

How to Watch: Peacock

How to Listen: Villanova Sports Radio Network

Net Rankings: Villanova 33, Seton Hall 49 (Quad 2)

KenPom: Villanova 29, Seton Hall 50

Torvik: Villanova 32, Seton Hall 51

NBA trade grades: Live analysis for every trade at the 2026 deadline originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The 2026 trade deadline has not disappointed early on. We're still waiting for the big Giannis Antetokounmpo shoe to drop, but several other big names like James Harden, Trae Young, and Anthony Davis have been moved. 

We're grading them all instantly over at Sporting News, and there have been a lot of them. Check back to see how every team has fared on every move through Thursday at 3pm ET. 

NBA trade deadline grades 2026

Mavs trade Anthony Davis to Wizards

• Mavs receive: Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham, Marvin Bagley III, 2026 first round pick (via Thunder), 2030 first round pick (via Warriors)
• Wizards receive: Anthony Davis, Jaden Hardy, D'Angelo Russell, Dante Exum

Mavs trade grade: C+

This was a paltry return for Davis given that Dallas gave up Luka Doncic in order to get him only a year ago. One of the first round picks will likely be No. 30 in the 2026 draft. The other probably will never convey. But they needed to move on from him and allow a full rebuild around Cooper Flagg. They made the right decision by not wasting any more time.  

Wizards trade grade: C-

The prevailing opinion out there is that this was a worthy trade on a top 10 talent given that the Wizards paid next-to-nothing to acquire Davis. But his addition makes very little sense on a rebuilding team. He's a bad contract, as evidenced by the fact that nobody else could beat this price. Bad teams are supposed to get assets for taking on those deals, not send them out. 

The Wizards will be better next season, but this does not help them get closer to their stated goal of building a championship contender. Instead, it drags them towards the dreaded middle that they were trying to avoid. 

MORE: Full Anthony Davis trade grade

Clippers trade James Harden for Darius Garland

• Clippers receive: Darius Garland, second-round pick
• Cavs receive: James Harden

Cavs trade grade: B

Harden has been a better player than Garland over the past several seasons. More importantly, he's been much healthier. The Cavs have a real shot to make it to the NBA Finals. They needed to make this trade in order to capitalize on what could be a narrow window where the East is wide open. 

Clippers trade grade: B-

Garland's contract doesn't look great today. He will need to return to his previous All-Star form in order to come close to justifying it. But he's only 26 years old. The Clippers got 10 years younger in doing this trade, and they also got some draft compensation out of it for a player in Harden that wasn't in their long-term future. 

MORE: Full James Harden trade grade

Grizzlies trade Jaren Jackson Jr. to Jazz

• Jazz receive: Jaren Jackson Jr., John Konchar, Jock Landale, Vince Williams Jr. 
• Grizzlies receive: Kyle Anderson, Walter Clayton Jr., Taylor Hendricks, Georges Niang, three first-round picks

Grizzlies trade grade: A

When you look at the market for stars, it's been hard to get a great return on them. The Grizzlies did it with Bane, and they got another three good first-rounders in trading Jackson. 

Give Memphis credit. They could have stayed put and had a pretty good team. They have higher goals though, and they have confidence in what has been a pretty good scouting department that has hit on its picks and free agency signings. 

Jazz trade grade: B

Jackson is a 26-year-old former Defensive Player of the Year who should have made an All-NBA team last season (he did make his second All-Star team). The Jazz look like they are finally pivoting away from years of tanking and trying to make some win-now moves. 

A core of Jackson, Lauri Markkanen, breakout guard Keyonte George, Ace Bailey, and whoever they draft with a good pick in 2026 sounds pretty nice to build around. 

The Jazz had a ton of first-round picks to move. Trading three of them is a hefty price, but they still have plenty of avenues to either draft or trade for more talent. This is a nice step in the right direction for Utah. 

Bulls trade Coby White to Hornets

• Hornets receive: Coby White, Mike Conley Jr
• Bulls receive: Collin Sexton, Ousmane Dieng, three second round picks

Bulls trade grade: C

This is an underwhelming package for White, who was at one time among the best contracts in the league. The second-rounders that the Bulls are getting from the Hornets aren't particularly good, nor are the players that they're getting back.

Sexton is a talented scorer, but where does he fit among the plethora of guards already on the roster? Dieng has never averaged more than five points per game over any of his four seasons. 

White's value dipped down because the Bulls waited until he was set to become a free agent this summer before trading him. This trade became somewhat of a necessity after Chicago added Jaden Ivey and Anfernee Simons to their roster. 

Hornets trade grade: A-

White is a good young player who fits well with the high-octane offense that the Hornets have created. He should help Charlotte pass the Bulls in the race for the last Play-In spot. He won't help with their defensive issues, but he's a starter-level player that adds a ton of shooting next to LaMelo Ball, Kon Knueppel, and Brandon Miller. 

Clippers trade Chris Paul to Raptors in three-team deal

• Clippers receive: Rights to Vanja Marinkovic
• Nets receive: Ochai Agbaji, 2032 second round pick via Toronto, $3.5 million
• Raptors receive: Chris Paul

Raptors trade grade: B

This is a stopping ground for Paul, who will not be required to report to Toronto and is expected to be waived. Per Charania, this trade got the Raptors out of the tax, which seems to be the main impetus for it. 

Clippers trade grade: B

This trade was made for financial reasons for the Clippers as well. Per Charania, they saved $7 million off their tax payments and gets them below the first apron. 

Nets trade grade: B+

The Nets aren't going anywhere this year, so it makes sense for them to try and load up on young players. At age 25, Agbaji doesn't quite fit that description. He is only in his fourth year in the league and was at one time regarded as a good 3-and-D prospect. His shot has disappeared, but he's a decent reclamation project. More importantly, Brooklyn picks up a second-rounder in this deal and the money to cover his salary.

Hawks trade Trae Young to Wizards

• Wizards receive: Trae Young
• Hawks receive: CJ McCollum, Corey Kispert

Wizards trade grade: B+

The Wizards didn't have a starter-caliber point guard on their roster. They got a four-time All-Star basically for free, even getting off Corey Kispert's negative-value contract in the process. 

Young is overpaid as well, but he certainly has talent. His passing is exactly what Washington needed to help its younger players develop. Like Davis, he is overpaid on his deal. But he is an expiring contract next year, and Washington could flip him to take on more draft picks attached to bad money down the line. 

Hawks trade grade: B

This unfortunately seemed like all Atlanta could get for Young. They probably waited too long to move him, but it was a different lead executive who made that mistake.

Jalen Johnson's development as a point forward necessitated moving off Young for McCollum's expiring salary.

MORE: Full Trae Young trade grades

Bulls trade Nikola Vucevic to Celtics

• Celtics receive: Nikola Vucevic, 2027 second-round pick (via DEN)
• Bulls receive: Anfernee Simons, 2026 second-round pick (via NOP)

Celtics trade grade: B

The Celtics needed frontcourt depth, and they got it in Vucevic. He should fit their 3-point heavy system nicely. He also gives them a different look with his post play. Most importantly, he is a great defensive rebounder, which has been a weakness of theirs. 

Losing Simons hurts. He was a good sixth man. The big man depth is more important though. 

Bulls trade grade: B

Getting anything for Vucevic at this point was a good move. That 2026 second-round pick should be a good one at the top of the round.

It's yet to be seen if Simons is a part of Chicago's long-term future. But he's an okay flier, and if he doesn't work out then he is a free agent this summer. 

MORE: Full grades for Celtics, Bulls in Nikola Vucevic trade

Pistons trade Jaden Ivey to Bulls

• Pistons receive: Kevin Huerter, Dario Saric, 2026 protected swap from Minnesota
• Bulls receive: Jaden Ivey, Mike Conley
• Wolves receive: Nothing

Pistons trade grade: B

Ivey wasn't fitting into a very successful team, and Detroit couldn't agree to terms on an extension with him. It made sense to trade him for win-now help. 

Huerter can be that guy. He's a streaky 3-point shooter who hasn't been able to hit them this year but is at 37 percent for his career. The Pistons need that type of shooting. Huerter is also a decent playmaker and a high feel player who should be able to contribute to the back end of a playoff rotation. 

Bulls trade grade: B

The Bulls should be taking shots on young players whose value has dipped. It's how they landed Josh Giddey, and they're doing it now with Ivey. The cost here was extremely low. Huerter wasn't a part of the team's long-term plans. Ivey might be. 

MORE: The Bulls are making all the right moves: Grading Jaden Ivey, Anfernee Simons, Dario Saric trades

Wolves trade grade: B

The Wolves made this trade to get off Conley's salary and save money off their tax bill. Conley has been a good soldier for them, but his play had diminished over the past few years. They still need point guard depth, so perhaps another trade is coming. 

Cavs trade De'Andre Hunter to Kings

• Kings receive: De'Andre Hunter
• Cavs receive: Keon Ellis, Dennis Schroder, Emanuel Miller
• Bulls receive: Dario Saric, two second-round picks

Kings trade grade: B-

The idea of Hunter is always more appealing than the actual player. Hunter was traded last deadline, and the Cavs pulled him out of the starting lineup before moving him again. He looks like a 3-and-D player, but he doesn't do either of those things at an elite level. 

Ultimately, the price here isn't bad. Ellis wasn't getting a lot of playing time, and Schroder was not the answer at point guard that Sacramento had hoped. 

Cavs trade grade: B

Ellis is a good defender and spot up shooter that is extremely limited in creating his own shot. That's fine, as the Cavs needed a player to fill that simplified role. Schroder doesn't make a ton of sense on this roster, but he's a veteran that can pressure up on defense and play adequate backup minutes. 

The main impetus for this trade was probably the luxury tax savings. The Cavs saved almost $50 million off their payroll and luxury tax by moving Hunter. 

Bulls trade grade: A-

This is the type of trade that the Bulls never do. Credit them for using their space below the luxury tax to essentially buy two second-round picks for $5 million in Saric's salary.

Hawks trade Vit Krejci to Blazers

• Blazers receive: Vit Krejci
• Hawks receive: Duop Reath, two second-round picks

Blazers trade grade: A-

Krejci is on a terrific minimum-salaried contract through 2027-28. He's a good shooter and passer who lacks the strength to hold up in a lot of defensive matchups, but he gives good effort on that end of the floor too. He's not a starting-level player, but he's a good value as a first or second guard off the bench. 

Hawks trade grade: B

The Hawks already had similar players to Krejci in Luke Kennard and Corey Kispert. Krejci was the victim of too much depth at that position. 

Atlanta does have a lack of center depth, which Reath could solve if he wasn't already out for the season. This trade was more about the two second round picks, which are a nice addition. 

Count Hall of Fame wide receiver Terrell Owens among those who believe former New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick and current team owner Robert Kraft should have been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Owens opined Belichick and Kraft had been "snubbed" amid reports that neither was chosen for enshrinement as part of the Hall of Fame's Class of 2026.

"Obviously, it's something personal about why guys aren't getting in when they're supposed to be," Owens told USA TODAY Sports in an interview ahead of Super Bowl 60.

Owens seemed particularly bothered by Belichick's non-inclusion. He brought up the coach's eight career Super Bowl wins – six with the New England Patriots and two as an assistant with the New York Giants – to showcase the greatness of the legendary coach.

That's why Owens believes "personal feelings" got in the way of Belichick's selection, comparing it to his own experience as a third-ballot Hall of Famer.

"Whether you like the guy or not, it's not about likeability. It's not a popularity contest. It's not the Pro Bowl," Owens lamented. "This is something very iconic, prestigious. This is something a lot of people aspire to have [as] part of their accomplishments."

JARRETT BELL: As Robert Kraft awaits Hall call, Patriots take aim at seventh title

Owens also believes the first-ballot omission of Belichick, as well as Kraft's most recent failure to earn enshrinement, will create an interesting dynamic when Tom Brady becomes eligible for the Hall of Fame ballot.

"You can't put Tom Brady in first ballot if you don't put those two in first ballot," Owens said, referencing Belichick and Kraft. "Because there's no Tom Brady without Bill Belichick. There's no Tom Brady without Robert Kraft. Those guys obviously put him on the map. Those things go hand-in-hand."

Brady – a seven-time Super Bowl winner and the NFL's all-time leader in passing yards and passing touchdowns – won't be eligible for induction into the Hall of Fame until 2028.

It will be interesting to see if the Pro Football Hall of Fame amends its voting process at all before then, after the selection committee came under heat for Belichick's reported omission.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Terrell Owens laments Bill Belichick, Robert Kraft Hall of Fame snubs

Nearly two weeks after Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney publicly accused Ole Miss of tampering with linebacker Luke Ferrelli, the situation remains unresolved, and the silence from college football’s governing body has only intensified the spotlight.

The NCAA has acknowledged the Tigers’ complaint and stated it is reviewing the allegations, but no further details or timelines have been shared. Ole Miss has not issued any public response, which has left many around the sport frustrated but unsurprised.

On ESPN’s College Football Live, analysts Tom Luginbill and Sam Acho both pointed to tampering as the real problem in today’s college football landscape, not NIL or the existence of the transfer portal.

“The reality of the situation is, something has to put a stop to this. Because this is the problem. It’s not name, image and likeness. It’s not the transfer portal. It’s tampering,” Luginbill said.

Luginbill explained that coaches, including Swinney, are asking for rules that actually matter and punishments that are strong enough to change behavior.

“What the coaches are asking for, with Dabo Swinney in particular here, is for that to matter, and there to be accountability if there are rules in place against this, to be levied against the coach, the assistant coach, the university, and for there to be distinct penalties, and penalties so severe that you wouldn’t think to step over it.”

Acho agreed that consequences should focus on coaches rather than players, while also questioning whether many in the profession will be willing to speak out.

“I think it’s a very slight chance that more coaches calling out coaches happens,” Acho said. “Coaching is somewhat of a fraternity. But my point is that the penalty should not be levied on the player. The penalty for some of the tampering should be levied on the coaches who are the ones who are texting and calling the players.”

Clemson is no longer a top team in this way-too-early ACC rankings https://t.co/z2E8aBFzSLpic.twitter.com/gfPBnlNVGB

— Clemson Wire (@Clemson_Wire) February 4, 2026

Swinney has alleged that Ole Miss defensive coordinator Pete Golding directly contacted Ferrelli after the linebacker had already enrolled at Clemson, attended classes, and begun team activities. Clemson submitted a formal complaint to the NCAA in late January.

For now, the case remains in limbo. Until meaningful consequences are attached to tampering violations, many around the sport believe situations like this will continue to surface.

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

This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: ESPN analyst Tom Luginbill sides with Swinney over Ole Miss tampering

Florida coach uses Tim Tebow coming back to college football to make a point originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Florida Gators sure wouldn't mind some kind of ruling that allowed Tim Tebow to come back and play college football.

Don't get too excited though, Florida fans. That's not happening.

Instead, it's a point that new Gators head coach Jon Sumrall used to make a point on Wednesday.

“We’re going to file a temporary restraining order and see if Tim Tebow can play short yardage and goal line QB," Sumrall told reporters, in jest. "… I don’t know what the hell is going on with all of that.”

Sumrall is pointing to the world of college basketball, where players like Alabama's Charles Bediako and Baylor's James Nnaji have both returned to the NCAA ranks after playing professionally.

Nnaji was an NBA Draft pick, although he had never appeared in an NBA game, just Summer League and G League. Bediako was also a G League player.

Now, they're back playing college basketball in moves that never would've happened in previous eras.

College basketball is just the first place where this storm arrived. It's surely coming to college football in one way or another.

The NFL doesn't necessarily have an equivalent minor league like the G League, but how would a spring league like the UFL, or the Canadian Football League, factor into this?

Tebow had a sizable NFL career, so he wouldn't fit under the current standard being established in college hoops. But there are plenty of guys who left college and didn't make it, or have just toiled in training camps and on practice squads. Could they come back?

Sumrall sure wants to know, because he simply doesn't get what college sports are turning into, and he's not alone. 

MORE: Duke one-and-done moved in surprising NBA trade

At home to FK Austria Vienna

Our first game of 2026 in the ADMIRAL Bundesliga sees us host FK Austria Vienna. The match will take place on Friday evening at 20:30 CET at our Red Bull Arena.

Tickets Travel Around the stadium Kiosk offering Other

Tickets

• Tickets are available online in our Ticket Shop! 

to our online Ticket Shop

• Has something come up at the last minute? You have the opportunity, as always, to share tickets with friends, family or acquaintances, with the details on that below.

• The Ticket Info Points on the West and East sides are to open for you from 17:30 to help with any problems or issues with digital tickets. The Ticketing & Service Center team will also be there for you for 30 minutes after the final whistle.

Travel

As always, we recommend making the most of the (free) public transport offering!

• BY CAR/SHUTTLE The stadium car park opens from 07:00 but tends to fill up well ahead of kick-off time. Fans from Switzerland arriving by car can park at the P-DOC and use a free shuttle service. From 18:30 our FREE SHUTTLE SERVICE will operate from the free car park at the Designer Outlet Center (P1 only) as well as Hanuschplatz in the city centre. The P Messe car park is NOT available!
• PUBLIC TRANSPORT With your match ticket, you can travel for free on local public transport from six hours before kick-off until the last service of the day. That applies to all Salzburger Verkehrsverbund bus and train lines (in the federal state of Salzburg including the 260 corridor line as well as the entire Salzburg local train network to Ostermiething station) as well as the S-Bahn line to Freilassing train station. Match tickets are also valid in the same time period on the 150 line from Salzburg to Bad Ischl, the 140 line from Salzburg to Mondsee, the 156 line from St. Gilgen to Mondsee and the Straßwalchen line to Friedburg. The ÖBB/SVV schedule can be found HERE

Around the stadium

• Our fan park on the west side of the stadium is the perfect place to meet up before the match - and has a shiny new look!  Two food trucks provide a wide range of culinary offerings. Our event tools ensure for fun and entertainment. As usual, the fan park will open three hours before kick-off. An hour before the match there will be an autograph session here with one of our players not in action and Bullidibumm.
• The Bullshop at the East Side of the Red Bull Arena opens from 10:00 until kick-off, and again for 45 minutes after the final whistle. 
• The stadium is to open 90 minutes before kick-off.

Kiosk offering in the stadium

• Please note that payment can only be made cashlessly at the Red Bull Arena's kiosks! All the usual credit and debit cards can be used. All the information on Cashless Payment can be found HERE.
• There is a €2 deposit on cups. If you want to donate the deposit, cups can be left by exits and the proceeds donated to the Wings for Life foundation.

Other

• Planning on taking an umbrella, handbag or camera? Everything you are allowed and not allowed at the Red Bull Arena can be read here in our stadium rules:

to the stadium rules

• As a family-friendly sports ground with a significant children's and youngsters' area, smoking is absolutely forbidden at the Red Bull Arena. The only exceptions are the designated smoker zones around the stadium exterior.

Detroit Tigers fans can officially add another name to the ever-growing “Tarik Skubal trade rumor bingo card.”

This time, the conversation includes Los Angeles Dodgers phenom Roki Sasaki, one of the most electric young pitchers in the world — and yes, it’s already making waves across baseball.

According to Bleacher Report’s Zachary Rymer, a theoretical blockbuster trade could see the Dodgers dangle Sasaki as the headliner in a package for two-time Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal.

Let’s break down why this rumor exists — and why it still feels like a long shot.

Trade Proposal: Los Angeles Dodgers get LHP Tarik Skubal; Detroit Tigers get RHP Roki Sasaki, OF Zyhir Hope (MLB No. 27), LHP Jackson Ferris

Why Tarik Skubal Keeps Coming Up in Trade Talks

Skubal’s situation is straightforward, even if the rumors aren’t.

• He’s under team control through the 2026 season
• He’s coming off another dominant year
• Extension talks and arbitration haven’t exactly been smooth
• The Tigers know his value may never be higher

That combination alone is enough to make rival front offices call Detroit, especially contenders like the Dodgers, who are always in “win-now” mode.

Why Roki Sasaki Even Comes Up

Here’s where things get interesting.

Rymer notes that the Dodgers are so stacked that Sasaki — MLB’s No. 1 overall prospect last year — currently projects as their No. 6 starter.

That’s absurd depth.

“Using him as a trade chip is arguably their best play just in the abstract,” Rymer wrote.

The proposed package included:

• Roki Sasaki
• Zyhir Hope (Dodgers’ No. 2 prospect)
• Jackson Ferris (Dodgers’ No. 6 prospect)

On paper? That’s the kind of haul Detroit would have to consider if Skubal were ever moved.

The Reality Check Tigers Fans Need

Even Rymer admits the obvious:

“Frankly, one doubts that the Dodgers would part ways with Sasaki just one year after scoring him as a major offseason prize.”

That’s the key line.

Sasaki isn’t just another prospect; he’s a global asset, a marketing dream, and a long-term rotation cornerstone. Trading him one year into his MLB career would be shocking, even by Dodgers standards.

And from Detroit’s side? Trading Skubal only makes sense if the return includes both short-term rotation help and long-term upside. Sasaki checks that box, but the odds of LA actually pulling the trigger remain slim.

Why This Feels Like Rumor Season Noise (For Now)

This is the time of year when:

• Every ace with limited control gets linked to the Dodgers
• Every top prospect gets floated as “available”
• Hypotheticals get louder than reality

Could Detroit listen? Sure.

Will the Tigers actively shop Skubal? That’s far less certain — especially with a roster that still believes it can contend sooner rather than later.

For now, this feels more like conceptual roster math than a trade that’s gaining real traction.

But make no mistake: if Skubal is ever moved, this is the caliber of return Detroit would demand.

Bottom Line

Roki Sasaki being mentioned in Tarik Skubal trade talks tells you one thing:
Detroit’s ace is viewed as one of the most valuable pitchers in baseball.

It doesn’t mean a deal is imminent, or even likely.

But it does remind everyone that if the Tigers ever decide to pull the pin, the price will be massive.

And honestly? It should be.

The post MLB Writer Floats Jaw-Dropping Name in Tarik Skubal Trade Scenario appeared first on Detroit Sports Nation.

Penn State hockey’s Gavin McKenna is reportedly facing an assault charge following an alleged altercation on Saturday night:

Per Onward State, the incident occurred near the 100 block of S. Pugh Street in downtown State College, and the victim suffered a broken jaw.

As this is still a developing story, it is unknown at this time what consequences McKenna will face- both legally and within the hockey team.

Penn State is already dealing with injuries to Charlie Cerrato and Braedon Ford, and Alex Servagno left Friday’s game with an injury. A potential suspension to Gavin McKenna would leave the Nittany Lions’ forward depth stretched dangerously thin. Penn State’s next game is Friday, February 13 against Michigan.

PARIS (AP) — Endrick made it five goals in five games as Lyon beat Laval 2-0 to reach the French Cup quarterfinals on Wednesday.

The Brazil striker picked up a loose ball near the penalty area following a driving run from midfielder Pavel Šulc, skipped effortlessly past one defender and unleashed a powerful left-footed shot into the top left corner.

The 19-year-old Endrick is on loan from Real Madrid until the end of the season after deciding he needed more games in view of the World Cup later this year. Brazil is coached by Carlo Ancelotti, who was Endrick's coach during his breakthrough at Madrid last season.

Lyon's second goal against second-tier struggler Lorient came courtesy of an own goal in stoppage time.

Lens joined Lyon in the last eight after winning 4-2 at Ligue 2 leader Troyes, with striker Abdallah Sima netting twice. Northern side Lens is still on course for the domestic double and is battling with Paris Saint-Germain at the top of Ligue 1.

Ligue 1 sides Nice and Toulouse both won at home.

Nice rallied from 2-0 down to beat second-tier Montpellier 3-2 thanks to a brilliant curler from midfielder Sofiane Diop eight minutes into stoppage time.

Collecting a corner from the left, the fleet-footed Diop showed great awareness to advance quickly and then bend a shot across the penalty area and into the bottom right corner.

Toulouse beat second-tier Amiens 1-0 with a goal in the first half from striker Yann Gboho.

In an all first-division game, Lorient beat Paris FC 2-0 at home.

Strasbourg hosts Monaco on Thursday, which is when the quarterfinal draw will be made.

Marseille beat Rennes 3-0 at home on Tuesday, with forward Mason Greenwood scoring his 22nd goal of the season.

Title holder PSG was knocked out by Paris FC in the previous round. ___

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

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Pat Knight, the son of the late Bob Knight, has resigned as coach of the Marian Knights men's basketball team after refusing to comply with an administrator's demand he fire someone on his staff.

Knight did not name the staff member but told The Indianapolis Star he did not intend to fire the person, so he quit.

Knight was ejected in what turned out to be his final game with Marian — Saturday's 75-74 loss to another NAIA school from Indiana. With the victory, Goshen snapped a 19-game losing streak to Marian and also ended a 54-game skid in conference play.

Marian athletic director Steve Downing hired Knight in 2024, and he went 16-34 at the school located in Indianapolis. Downing played on Knight's earliest teams at Indiana but was not part of any of the elder Knight's three title-winning squads.

Knight also succeeded his father at Texas Tech during the 2007-08 seasons and spent four seasons with the Red Raiders. He landed later at another Texas school, Lamar. In seven seasons as a Division I coach, Knight went 79-123 before making the jump to the NBA where he served in several capacities, including as a scout, for 10 seasons with the Indiana Pacers. He told The Star he would like to return to that job.

Bob Knight retired with the most victories in the history of Division I men's college basketball, 973, a mark later surpassed by one of his former players, Mike Krzyzewski. This season also marks the 50th anniversary of the elder Knight's first title team, which happens to be the last men's undefeated national champion.

___

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

When is the Carabao Cup final 2026? Date, time of Wembley Stadium trophy match originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Carabao Cup is the first major trophy awarded of the English football season each year.

With the FA Cup and Premier League titles still to come, the EFL or League Cup, known for sponsorship reasons as the Carabao Cup, is the first out of the gate with a winner decided in March.

There will be no back-to-back winners, as defending champions Newcastle United, who beat Liverpool by a one-goal margin in last season's final, fell just short as they bowed out in the semifinals. Therefore, still no team will have won consecutive titles in this competition since Man City's run of four straight ended in 2021.

The Sporting News has all the info on when the final will be played, who will be playing, and how to watch.

MORE:A wider look at the 2025/26 Carabao Cup tournament bracket, fixtures, scores, and schedule

When is the Carabao Cup final 2026?

The 2026 EFL Cup final will be on Sunday, March 22.

The game will be held at Wembley Stadium in London, where it has been held annually since 1967, aside from a six-year stretch during the construction of the current venue.

The game will kick off at 4:30 p.m. local time (11:30 a.m. ET), which lines up with the same as last season's title match.

Who will play in the 2026 Carabao Cup final?

Arsenal were the first to book a spot in the Carabao Cup final after dispatching Chelsea by a 4-2 aggregate score in the earlier semifinal. It will be just the second final that the Gunners will play under Mikel Arteta's watch.

Shortly thereafter, Man City also earned passage to the title game at Wembley as they dispatched defending champions Newcastle by a 5-1 aggregate score.

The final lower-league side to be eliminated was Cardiff City, who were downed by Chelsea in the quarterfinals.

Carabao Cup semifinal fixtures

First leg

Second leg

Cristiano Ronaldo might ask to leave Al-Nassr in June, Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson is top of Manchester United's list of midfield targets, Atletico Madrid are planning a move for Tottenham's Cristian Romero.

Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo, who will turn 41 on Thursday, is set to boycott a second match for Al-Nassr, despite posting a picture of himself training, and might ask to leave the Saudi Pro League club in June. (ESPN)

If Ronaldo leaves Al-Nassr, his most likely move would be a return to his first club Sporting Lisbon. (Fichajes - in Spanish)

Nottingham Forest's England international Elliot Anderson, 23, tops Manchester United's list of midfield targets, which also includes his Three Lions team-mate Adam Wharton, 21, of Crystal Palace, and Brighton's 22-year-old Cameroon player Carlos Baleba, 22. (The Athletic - subscription required)

Atletico Madrid are ready to move for Tottenham defender Cristian Romero, 27, following the Argentine's latest social media post appearing to criticise the club.(Sun)

Newcastle United chief executive David Hopkinson says he has "no idea" if Sandro Tonali's agent offered the 25-year-old to Arsenal following rumours linking the Italy midfielder to the Gunners on transfer deadline day. (Talksport)

Portugal midfielder Ruben Neves, 28, who was linked with a January move to Manchester United among other clubs, has signed a contract extension at Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal until June 2029. (Fabrizio Romano)

Chelsea, Manchester City and Liverpool are interested in signing Sunderland's Netherlands goalkeeper Robin Roefs, with the club expecting offers above £50m for the 23 year-old. (Football insider)

Major League Soccer side LA Galaxy are exploring ways to sign 33-year-old Brazil midfielder Casemiro, who will leave Manchester United this summer. (Mail - subscription required)

France defender Dayot Upamecano, 27, is ready to sign a new deal at Bayern Munich that will keep him at the Bundesliga champions until June 2030. (Fabrizio Romano)

Wolves have accepted Palmeiras' offer of £21.6m for Colombia winger Jhon Arias, and the 28 year-old is already discussing personal terms with the Brazilian side. (UOL - in Portuguese)

West Ham had agreed a £27m deal for Crystal Palace striker Eddie Nketiah, 26, in the transfer window before an injury to the player ended the move. (Athletic - subscription required)

Robbie Savage is emerging as a leading contender for the vacant Blackburn Rovers manager's job. The former Wales midfielder is understood to fit the profile the Ewood Park hierarchy are after. (Footballer Insider)

Out-of-favour Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier has agreed personal terms for a move to Turkish side Besiktas, with the deal expected to be done in the next 48 hours. (Teamtalk)

• Liverpool to rival Man Utd for Wharton - Wednesday's gossip
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Warriors urged to pair Stephen Curry with $276 million future Hall of Fame duo, chase title originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Golden State Warriors’ immediate future doesn’t look overwhelmingly bright. 

Jimmy Butler is sidelined with an ACL injury, and the Warriors’ roster as a whole isn’t strong from top to bottom. For that reason, former NBA All-Star Jeff Teague believes the seven-time NBA champions should go big not only before the Feb. 5 trade deadline, but also in the offseason.

For clarity, Teague is a firm believer that the Warriors should pair Stephen Curry with a future Hall of Fame duo to bolster their title hopes.

"Bron (LeBron James) might shake up the whole NBA,” Teague said Tuesday. “Bron might go to the Golden State. (Warriors should) trade for Giannis (Antetokounmpo) and get Bron in the offseason. “Steph and Bron have been wanting to play on the same team.”

“Nobody going to say nothing to Bron if he go to Golden State because he old. Nobody can be mad at an old Bron going to Golden State, he can be like, ‘The Lakers didn’t want me no more. I still want to play.”

Landing Antetokounmpo is priority No. 1, of course, for the Dubs, as doing so will allow them to contend for a championship this season. If the Dubs fall short of a title with Antetokounmpo, Teague’s summer signing idea is a logical secondary move for the franchise. 

Adding James to the fold would give Curry and the Warriors an even better chance of going the distance in the postseason, as the organization would have its most talented roster since their 2021-22 championship team. 

James is on the older side, though, forcing fans to lower their expectations of the 22-time All-Star slightly. 

Still, signing him in addition to trading for Antetokounmpo before Thursday’s trade deadline would be two wise moves for a franchise that needs all the help it can get. 

More NBA: Lakers exploring trade for $46.8 million former Knicks, Warriors sharpshooting guard, per report

Mary Carillo steps in for Savannah Guthrie during Winter Olympics amid missing mom mystery originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

When NBC rolls out its primetime coverage for the 2026 Winter Games opening ceremony, viewers expecting to see Savannah Guthrie at the desk will instead find a familiar Olympic voice taking the lead.

Mary Carillo to replace Savannah Guthrie on NBC’s Opening Ceremony coverage https://t.co/OUej315t32pic.twitter.com/GbntV2A9v0

— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) February 4, 2026

According to TMZ, veteran broadcaster Mary Carillo has been tapped to cohost the Milano Cortina Opening Ceremony, stepping in for Guthrie as the longtime Today anchor focuses on a family emergency back home. Carillo will share the stage with Terry Gannon and is expected to remain part of the network’s reporting team throughout the Games.

MORE: Chrisean Rock returns to boxing after 6000 women applied to be her opponent

For Carillo, the assignment is business as usual. The upcoming Olympics mark her 17th time covering the event for NBC, a résumé that includes everything from tennis analysis to feature storytelling. Network leadership framed the move as a natural fit.

NBC Olympics production president and executive producer Molly Shannon said the company is leaning on its “deep bench of talented commentators,” adding that Carillo is “one of the most experienced Olympic commentators ever and a master storyteller,” and that she and Gannon will guide viewers through one of the world’s biggest global events.

Guthrie’s absence is far more serious.

According to Complex, over the weekend, her 84-year-old mother, Nancy, was reported missing from her home near Tucson. Authorities say she failed to attend church Sunday morning, prompting concern from family members. Investigators now believe she may have been taken from the residence overnight.

“We know she didn’t just walk out of there,” Sheriff Chris Nanos said during an update, describing the property as an active crime scene. Search efforts have included helicopters, drones, and K-9 units. Officials also noted that Nancy has mobility limitations and does not have access to necessary medication.

MORE: Jason Kelce literally got down and dirty to return to the Super Bowl

As the search continues, Guthrie has turned to the public for support. In a message shared on social media, she asked for collective prayer and hope, writing that her family believes “in voices raised in unison, in love, in hope,” and urging people to “raise your prayers with us… We need you.”

Carabao Cup 2025/26 round dates, schedule, results for each phase of English football tournament originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The English Football League Cup, known as the Carabao Cup for sponsorship reasons, is considered one of the major trophies in the English season.

Although lacking the prestige of the FA Cup and Premier League, the Carabao Cup is nonetheless a valued piece of silverware and a potential route into European football for the winners.

If not already qualified via other means, the Carabao Cup title winner earns a berth into the UEFA Conference League.

While the competition has been considered of secondary importance to some of the biggest sides over the years, it has taken on more prominence over the past two decades. Indeed, Birmingham City, Swansea City and Newcastle United — who triumphed in 2025 — are the only teams outside the Premier League's so-called "big six" to have won the EFL Cup since 2004.

Below, The Sporting News looks over the key dates for the 2025/26 tournament and lists the results and complete schedule.

MORE: Who has won the most EFL Cup trophies? | Date & ball numbers for the upcoming draw

Carabao Cup 2025/26 round dates

The EFL Cup (Carabao Cup for sponsorship reasons) features all 92 participating clubs from the top four tiers of English football: Premier League (20 clubs), Championship (24 clubs), League One (24), and League Two (24).

The Premier League clubs not involved in European cup competitions joined in the second round, and the remaining sides compete from the third round.

• First Round: Week commencing August 11, 2025
• Second Round: W/C August 25, 2025
• Third Round (Rd of 32): W/C September 15 and September 22, 2025
• Fourth Round (Rd of 16): W/C October 27, 2025
• Quarterfinals: W/C December 15, 2025
• Semifinals first legs: W/C January 12, 2026
• Semifinal second legs: W/C February 2, 2026
• Final: March 22, 2026

Every round is single-elimination except for the semifinals, which are played over two legs. There is no extra time up to and including the quarterfinals, with matches going straight to penalties if the score is level after 90 minutes.

However, extra time will be in effect for the semifinal second legs (no away goals tiebreaker) and the final, if necessary.

MORE:Is there VAR in the Carabao Cup? | Is there extra-time in the Carabao Cup?

Carabao Cup 2025/26 schedule, results

Below is a list of results from the early rounds and the schedule for round three and beyond of the Carabao Cup. The Sporting News will update this section as matches are played.

Carabao Cup final 2026

The 2026 Carabao Cup final will see Arsenal and Manchester City do battle at Wembley Stadium, where it has been played annually since 1967 aside from a six-year stretch in the early 2000's to accommodate the current venue's construction.

The game will kick off at 4:30 p.m. local time (11:30 a.m. ET), which lines up with the same as last season's title match.

Carabao Cup semifinal draw, schedule 2025/26

Below is the complete draw and results for semifinal matches.

Tthe second legs will begin on the week beginning Monday, February 2.

First leg

Second leg

Carabao Cup quarterfinal results 2025/26

Carabao Cup fourth round results 2025/26

Carabao Cup third round results 2025/26

Carabao Cup second round results 2025/26

Roman Reigns officially made his decision as to who he'll face in the main event of WrestleMania 42 after winning the 2026 Royal Rumble, and he announced on "WWE Raw" that he'll be headed for CM Punk and his World Heavyweight Championship. In the heated promo, Reigns revealed that he's not going after Punk because he's the biggest star on the biggest show, but rather, simply because he hates him. That one word, "hate," is what got WWE Hall of Famer Bully Ray all in on the match, which he explained on "Busted Open Radio."

"The entire wrestling industry since day one has been built on two emotions, love and hate," he said. "It's that simple. It's as old school as old school gets and it still works. I'm listening to Roman say all these things to Punk, but then he says, 'I hate you. I'm choosing you because I hate you.' No other reason. And I want to see that hate come out of Roman Reigns. It's so simple... 'I hate you.' We've heard that spoken a million times. You can only hate somebody if you've had some kind of appreciation for them at first."

Bully Ray said Reigns admitting that Punk almost got in his head was a big deal. He explained that as smart as Reigns is after learning from his family in the Samoan Dynasty, it was a rebel from Chicago who almost got to him. The Hall of Famer called it "pretty heavy duty."

Read more: Every Paul Heyman Guy, Ranked By Accomplishments

Bully Ray Ready for a Fight

Bully Ray said that he doesn't want to see a wrestling match between Punk and Reigns at WrestleMania, he's more interested in a fight. He wants to see a five star fight, not a five star match, and wants to see something different from "The Tribal Chief," brought out by Punk.

"It's that word, 'hate,' that has me fired up," he explained. "I'm hoping we see that different side of Roman. I don't want to see any other wrestling moves from Roman other than his spear and maybe his Superman punch... I would love to see Roman just mount CM Punk time after time, repeatedly punching him in the face. And the announcers saying, 'Roman Reigns says he hated CM Punk and he's always hated CM Punk and we are seeing that hatred manifest itself before our eyes in the main event for the world championship at WrestleMania...' You can't beat a man down the way Roman Reigns is beating CM Punk down unless you truly hate him.'"

"The Tribal Chief" and "The Voice of the Voiceless" are set to go one-on-one for the first time since January 2014. They last faced off at WrestleMania last year in a triple threat match involving Seth Rollins, which saw the betrayal of Paul Heyman, who aligned himself with "The Visionary."

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

Don't miss any of the major wrestling headlines. Sign up to our free newsletter for the biggest stories, sent straight to your inbox. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google.

Read the original article on Wrestling Inc.

The Brooklyn Nets have not made any major moves prior to Thursday's trade deadline for the 2025-26 NBA season, despite the fact that there have been many rumors to the contrary. Brooklyn has one of the most-talked about players in the rumor mill in forward Michael Porter Jr., but the Nets seem to be focused on adding players to the roster at the moment.

ESPN's Shams Charania reported on Wednesday that the Nets acquired guard Ochai Agbaji and a 2032 second-round pick from the Toronto Raptors as part of a three-team trade also involving the Los Angeles Clippers. Veteran guard Chris Paul was sent from the Clippers to the Raptors and Brooklyn received cash along with their return of Agbaji and the second-round pick.

"Brooklyn picks up an asset and cash to cover Agbaji's salary. The Clippers clear a roster spot and save $7 million in tax," Charania added in his report in the trade, emphasizing that the Nets were essentially being compensated for taking on Agbaji's contract. NBA insider Jake Fischer went on to note that Brooklyn is sending the rights to Vanja Marinkovic to the Clippers to complete the trade.

Agbaji, 25, is averaging 4.3 points and 2.3 rebounds per game this season while shooting 42.4% from the field and 18.5% from three-point land in 42 appearances for Toronto. However, Agbaji did have the best season of his career last season when he averaged 10.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game while shooting 49.8% from the floor and 39.9% from deep.

"Brooklyn had up to $15M in cap space to absorb the $6.4M Agbaji expiring contract," ESPN's Bobby Marks noted in his post on X about the trade with NBA insider Chris Haynes reporting that the Nets are receiving $3.5 million in cash from the Clippers. As it stands, this could be one of many moves for the Nets to make prior to the deadline, especially with the reports of Porter and center Nic Claxton drawing interest from teams around the league.

The Nets are acquiring guard Ochai Agbaji and a 2032 second-round pick from the Raptors, but it hasn't yet been reported what Brooklyn is giving up, which could indicate that the Nets are renting some of their cap space. Agbaji, 25, is averaging 4.3 PPG and 2.3 RPG this season. https://t.co/33CyGocH0E

— Sharif Phillips-Keaton (@SharifKeaton) February 4, 2026

This article originally appeared on Nets Wire: Report: Nets get Ochai Agbaji, 2nd-round pick in trade with Raptors

Oh No He Didn't: Shams on Chris Paul: "It's not certain whether he's gonna play again in the NBA as of right now"

x.com

Shams on Chris Paul:

"It's not certain whether he's gonna play again in the NBA as of right now"

😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/nihGYQD00U

— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) February 4, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Shams: No certainty Chris Paul plays in the NBA again

Still working the phones with a lot of focus with New Orleans and Houston, according to a source. Simons and Sexton are both free agents after the season and are still in play to be moved, while Ayo Dosunmu is being sought after, but the Bulls would have to be blown away to part with him.

Chicago Sun-Times

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Still working the phones with a lot of focus with New …

Wizards Film Room: @JakeLFischer reporting on his live show just now that the Wizards reached out to the Knicks about KAT, referencing the framework that ultimately landed them Anthony Davis.

x.com

@JakeLFischer reporting on his live show just now that the Wizards reached out to the Knicks about KAT, referencing the framework that ultimately landed them Anthony Davis. pic.twitter.com/u9dGHTbmbZ

— Wizards Film Room (@KevinFolliNBA) February 4, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: @JakeLFischer reporting on his live show just now that …

But before practice started, reality set in. Coach Tuomas Iisalo gathered the team and revealed that Jaren Jackson Jr., Jock Landale, John Konchar and Vince Williams Jr. were being traded to the Utah Jazz. "For me, it was just initial shock," GG Jackson told the Commercial Appeal on Feb. 4. "I didn't really know how to react. On the way to the plane, it kind of hit me a little bit."

Memphis Commercial Appeal

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "For me, it was just initial shock," GG Jackson told …

Omari Sankofa II: Cade Cunningham (right wrist injury management), Tobias Harris (left knee soreness) and Kevin Huerter (trade pending) are all questionable tomorrow vs the Wizards. Dario Saric (trade pending) is out.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Cade Cunningham (right wrist injury management), …

Joel Lorenzi: Ayo Dosunmu (quad) is questionable for tomorrow. Got held out with the injury last night in Milwaukee, but of course, it’s well reported that he’s a coveted asset ahead of tomorrow’s deadline.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Ayo Dosunmu (quad) is questionable for tomorrow.

Matthew Tynan: Spurs just announced David Jones-Garcia will miss the remainder of the 2025-26 season after undergoing surgery on his right ankle. He suffered the injury back on Jan. 10 in Austin.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Spurs just announced David Jones-Garcia will miss the …

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Charlotte Hornets are bringing Coby White back home to North Carolina, where he is the state’s career high school scoring leader and played for the Tar Heels.

The Hornets agreed to acquire White from the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday, according to a person familiar with the situation. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the deal had yet to be approved by the league.

ESPN reported that the Hornets are also getting Mike Conley Jr. in the deal, while the Bulls will get Collin Sexton, Ousmane Dieng and three of Charlotte's second-round draft picks.

White, the No. 7 overall pick in the 2019 draft, joins a Hornets team that is surging toward its first playoff appearance in a decade, having won seven straight games behind a young core of players.

He averaged 18.6 points, 4.7 assists and 3.7 rebounds per game for the Bulls, shooting 34.6% from 3-point range — down slightly from his career average of 36.8%.

Although it's unclear where he fits into the Hornets' rotation, White gives Charlotte yet another scorer join LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel and Miles Bridges. The Hornets are 23-28 and currently 11th in the the Eastern Conference, but they are 12-1 when they've started a lineup that includes Ball, Miller, Knueppel, Bridges and center Moussa Diabate — all of whom are now healthy.

Knueppel has won three straight Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month awards, while Miller was named last week's conference Player of the Week.

The 25-year-old White has spent seven seasons with the Bulls, averaging 15.4 points, 3.9 assists and 3.7 rebounds.

Sexton has been Ball's primary backup at point guard this season and has given the Hornets a boost off the bench, averaging 14.2 points and 3.7 assists in 42 games while shooting 39.3% on 3s.

White scored 3,573 points for Greenfield High School in Wilson, North Carolina, from 2014-18.

White played one season in college at North Carolina before turning pro. He continues to host youth basketball camps on campus during the offseason.

___

Reynolds reported from Miami.

___

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

Jon Rahm expressed frustration Wednesday with the board of the Official World Golf Ranking, believing his league is still not getting its due when it comes to accreditation.

On Tuesday the OWGR announced that, beginning this week, the Saudi-backed circuit is eligible for world ranking points, a pursuit that has been five years in the making for LIV. LIV events will be ranked based on OWGR’s standard classification of "Small Field Tournaments" with a "Ranking points distribution cutoff" applied to award points to players who finish in the top 10 (and ties). The winner will receive the projected equivalent of an alternate-event champion on the PGA Tour and more than some DP World Tour events. The accreditation came despite, as the OWGR pointed out in a statement, of LIV falling short of several standards, specifically the "self-selection of players with players being recruited rather than earning their place on the tour in many cases and, in recent days, the addition/removal of players to/from teams based on their nationality rather than for meritocratic reasons."

However, LIV Golf officials felt they deserved more points. While officials acknowledged the “moment of recognition” they likewise sounded off on the decision. “This outcome is unprecedented. Under these rules, a player finishing 11th in a LIV Golf event is treated the same as a player finishing 57th. Limiting points to only the top 10 finishers disproportionately harms players who consistently perform at a high level but finish just outside that threshold, as well as emerging talent working to establish themselves on the world stage—precisely the players a fair and meritocratic ranking system is designed to recognize. No other competitive tour or league in OWGR history has been subjected to such a restriction. We expect this is merely a first step toward a structure that fully and fairly serves the players, the fans, and the future of the sport."

Following the first round at LIV’s season-opening event in Riyadh, Rahm joined the criticism.

“Yeah, it’s fantastic that we’re getting points,” Rahm said on LIV’s broadcast. “It’s fantastic that we’re being recognized in a way. With that said, I don’t like how we’re not being treated the same as every other tour. It seems like the rules that have been in place aren’t really applied to us, with only 10 of us getting points, it doesn’t seem fair. There are small fields out there throughout the course of the year that get full points, or full players get points, right? So, there’s work to be done.”

When Rahm finished the 2023 season—his last before defecting to LIV—he ranked No. 3 in the OWGR. This week, he enters at No. 97, a byproduct of LIV’s non-OWGR accreditation and his struggles in majors over the past two years. Rahm was one of the more vocal voices at LIV to move to 72 holes in pursuit of OWGR points, a move that other LIV players have not welcomed.

“While it’s good for some people, it could cost some players to actually lose world ranking points, instead of gain them,” Rahm later added, “because finishing in 11th is basically a missed cut, and we’re already adding to the divisor. But I’m thankful that LIV Golf got their foot in the door, and there’s a possibility for us to walk in the room and be recognized as a tour, as we should be.”

Despite not winning on LIV last year, Rahm finished atop the league’s individual point standings and won the “clutch” player of the year award. He is T-4 after Thursday’s opening round, two shots behind Thomas Detry and Peter Uihlein.

In a field of 18 desperate drivers, only the top two finishers + the points provisional (Alex Bowman) were going to transfer from the last-chance-qualifier (LCQ) into the main event.

Bowman was happy to take the points provisional on offer to him (as the highest driver from the 2025 championship not yet locked in) instead of racing for it and risking his car, so the No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet dropped from fifth on the grid to the very back for the start of the LCQ.

Josh Berry cruised to the checkered flag in the No. 21 Wood Brothers Ford, saying after the race: "I feel good about (the car). Just struggling a little bit on the restarts. Cold temperatures there and locking up the left-front. I got it locked up a bit under AJ (Allmendinger). But once we were able to settle in and get some heat into the tires, I felt good about our car. I think we can make a few small adjustments to make the car a little bit better, but obviously we don't have track position. It's a long night when you don't make this race, though."

Josh Berry, Wood Brothers Ford

He will be joined by fellow Ford driver and pseudo-teammate Austin Cindric, who prevailed in a made battle for second that turned into bumper cars between himself, Corey LaJoie, and AJ Allmendinger.

"That was about as fair as I think that could have gotten for an LCQ," said Cindric. "I appreciate Corey racing hard, and obviously, we advanced in, but long road ahead starting last with some scuffs for the final here."

Cindric then added: "I don't think I got full throttle for the entire race there (due to the increased horsepower), except for when emotions got high. Pretty interesting to try and manage. Hopefully we didn't get too much damage there, and we'll try to have a good final."

Berry will start 21st, Cindric 22nd, and Bowman 23rd in the main event. Kyle Larsonearned pole position for the feature race in qualifying, beating Hendrick Motorsports teammate William Byron.

Kyle Larson earns Clash pole as 20 cars lock into Bowman Gray feature

Race recap

Battle for the final transfer spit between Corey LaJoie, Austin Cindric, AJ Allmendinger

It didn't take look for the Madhouse to live up to its reputation in the 75-lap LCQ. Just six laps into the race, Riley Herbst got spun out, and John-Hunter Nemechek slammed into his driver's door. Cody Ware also spun out, and various other cars sustained minor damage.

Additionally, race leader McDowell was black-flagged for jumping the initial start over pole-sitter Berry.

On the following restart, there was a lot of contact as Allmendinger powered into the race lead from the outside. Berry took it back a few laps later, and they both enjoyed a comfortable margin over third.

Herbst's race didn't get much better after that first caution, and got spun sideways after contact from Cole Custer, but the race remained green.

LaJoie muscled his way by Nemechek for third, but he had a lot of ground to make up in order to reach one of those transfer spots.

Todd Gilliland limped his car behind the wall after abruptly falling off the pace, but the race remained green as Berry began to lap into the top ten.

With 14 laps to go, LaJoie caught Allmendinger and immediately moved him out of the way for the final transfer spot. But immediately afterwards, he faced an attack from Cindric.

What followed was a tense back-and-forth as LaJoie and Cindric traded blows in a full-contact battle. On the final lap, Cindric was on the inside and LaJoie was on the outside. Allmendinger drove in deep and pushed them both up the track, but Cindric managed to hand on.

As Berry captured the checkered flag, Cindric crossed the line in second, while LaJoie was third, Allmendinger fourth, and Nemechek fifth.

Trading paint for the final transfer spot! Josh Berry and Austin Cindric advance to the main event. Alex Bowman gets the provisional. pic.twitter.com/s0iJE8Rq95

— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) February 4, 2026

"It was like a game of chess at like 50mph," said LaJoie. "He wanted to be the guy on the inside, obviously, but you didn’t want to pass the guy either because then he had the opportunity to get back to you. Came up a little short, but it was exciting, it was fun to be in the fight.

"Hadn’t been in the fight like that in a long time. Kudos to the #6 team man, they had a lot to deal with during the offseason. I know Brad is watching from home, and he’ll be ready to go next week. It was really cool to get in this car and knock the rust off. Unfortunately, we’ll be watching from the couch, but I feel really good about next week (at Daytona).

To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.

Feb. 4 (UPI) -- The Pittsburgh Steelers hired Brian Angelichio as their new offensive coordinator, they announced Wednesday.

The Steelers also announced that they hired Danny Crossman as special teams coordinator, Joe Whitt Jr. as assistant head coach/secondary coach, Domata Peko as defensive line coach and Pat Reilly as a defensive quality control coach.

Angelichio spent the past four seasons as a passing game coordinator and tight ends coach for the Minnesota Vikings. He also worked as a tight ends coach for the Carolina Panthers, Washington Redskins, Green Bay Packers, Cleveland Browns and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The Steelers offense ranked No. 25 in yards, with the No. 22 passing attack and No. 26 running game in the NFL in 2025 under former offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.

New Orleans Saints quarterbacks coach Scott Tolzien was among other candidates linked to the Steelers' offensive coordinator vacancy.

Looking ahead to 2026, one national outlet isn’t ready to write Clemson out of the ACC race, but it isn’t placing the Tigers among the conference’s elite just yet, either.

In its early preseason ACC projections, Athlon Sports slotted Clemson at No. 4 in the league, positioning the Tigers behind Miami, Louisville and SMU in the opening power hierarchy. The ranking reflects a program sitting at an interesting crossroads following a season that failed to meet expectations by Clemson standards.

The Tigers are coming off a 7-6 finish in 2025, a year that featured stretches of promise but lacked week-to-week stability. Clemson split its eight conference games and landed in the middle of the pack, a far cry from its usual spot near the top of the standings.

According to Athlon analyst Steven Lassan, several roster changes will shape how high Clemson can climb in 2026. The offense is expected to look different, beginning with a new starting quarterback in Christopher Vizzina and a new voice calling plays in Chad Morris. Lassan also pointed to wide receiver T.J. Moore as a potential difference-maker, while naming linebacker Sammy Brown and defensive end Will Heldt as key pieces for a unit that could take a step forward defensively.

Clemson makes a late move adding a player to 2026 recruiting class https://t.co/OGX55QzvGOpic.twitter.com/0J6KFZ9bPm

— Clemson Wire (@Clemson_Wire) February 4, 2026

Clemson’s path next fall won’t be easy. Home matchups against North Carolina, Miami, Virginia Tech and Georgia Tech highlight a demanding slate, while road trips to Cal, Florida State, Syracuse and Duke add to the challenge.

The early forecast suggests Clemson remains respected nationally, even after a down year. If the Tigers can clean up their inconsistencies and get more production from a retooled offense, they have a clear opportunity to push back toward the ACC’s upper echelon in 2026.

Contact us @Clemson_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) 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 ranks low in Athlon Sports early ACC rankings 2026

AUDIO:

VIDEO:

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani and Matt Wiltse discuss:

• Real Madrid’s squad building over the past few years
• Where did it go wrong?
• Where has Real Madrid’s ruthlessness gone?
• Making tough decisions this summer
• The sample size of 2 years of what works and what doesn’t
• Under the radar signings
• Real Madrid’s culture
• Lack of leadership in the squad and on the field
• Handcuffing yourself to contracts
• And more.

Did you enjoy this podcast? Get a ton of bonus content exclusively on Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid.

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

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

Hosts this week:

Kiyan Sobhani (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@KiyanSo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠)

Matt Wiltse (⁠⁠⁠@Matt_MM⁠⁠⁠)

Tennessee State announced that former Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Dexter Jackson has been promoted to assistant head coach, defensive backs coach, and passing game coordinator.

The move elevates Jackson to a broader leadership role within the Tigers program as he continues to build his coaching résumé. After previously working with the secondary, he will now help guide the overall team structure while maintaining direct oversight of the defensive backs and contributing to passing-game strategy.

Dexter Jackson Promoted to AHC / Defensive Backs / Passing Game Coordinatorhttps://t.co/DXrMlgIGn1

— Tennessee State Football (@TSUTigersFB) January 27, 2026

Jackson’s credibility comes from an accomplished NFL career. He spent 10 seasons with the Buccaneers, recording 330 solo tackles, 106 assists, 5.0 sacks, 5 fumble recoveries, and 17 interceptions. His defining moment came in Super Bowl XXXVII, where he earned MVP honors after a two-interception performance in Tampa Bay’s championship victory.

That experience gives Jackson instant authority when working with young defensive backs as they learn positioning, discipline, and ball skills. His promotion reflects Tennessee State’s confidence in both his football knowledge and leadership ability.

For Buccaneers fans, it is another example of a former franchise cornerstone continuing to impact the game well beyond his playing days.

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Bucs Super Bowl MVP gets coaching promotion at Tennessee State

With the start of Spring Training Feb. 11 in Peoria, Ariz., the San Diego Padres are nearing the end of their offseason plans and beginning their final approach to the 2026 season. Although there have been no major league roster additions since December, the team has not been totally inactive. News broke late Tuesday that the lawsuit between Peter Seidler’s widow, Sheel Seidler, and the Seidler brothers named in her allegations (Matt and Bob Seidler) have settled the bulk of the suit.

The terms of the settlement have not been released and probably never will be but this development lends further support to the rumors than an imminent sale of the team is probably true. The rumor mill has been churning for the last month regarding multiple parties interested in the purchase of the team.

Although no specific names have been shared, it has not been hard to imagine that the team would be attractive to multiple people or groups that want to own an MLB team. Joe Lacob, owner of the Golden State Warriors, is the only person who has publicly expressed interest in buying an MLB team.

The rumors were further supported by the fact that Padres CEO Erik Greupner was willing to make a public announcement at FanFest. He said that the sale was proceeding successfully and that the new owner would be invested in winning and maintaining the current goals.

The lawsuit would presumably be a roadblock to that sale and with this settlement, it may be announced sooner rather than later. It would not be surprising that the final negotiations for the A.J. Preller contract could be delayed as a result of rapidly progressing sale negotiations. Let’s hope these rumors are true and resolution occurs before the season starts.

Minor league contracts

LHP Marco Gonzales signed a minor league contract with a Spring Training invite. He will earn $1.5 million if he makes the team and has the ability to earn $1 million more in incentives. Gonzales is 34 and is coming off multiple seasons of injury with the latest being a forearm strain in 2024 that required flexor tendon surgery and he missed the entire 2025 season. His last appearance in the major leagues was in 2024 with the Pirates. He started seven games and pitched 33.2 innings with a 4.54 ERA. In his six-plus seasons as a starter with the Mariners (2017-2023) he pitched to a 3.48 ERA.

RHP Andrew Thurman signed a minor league contract. At 34, the career minor league pitcher last played in the Atlantic League in 2025 with 25 games started. The Padres transactions page has him assigned to the San Antonio Missions.

RHP Michael Flynn is 29 and reportedly signed a minor league contract. He has played most recently in the Tampa Bay organization and has been a reliever. He is a sinker/cutter prominent pitcher with a low-90s fastball and a plus sweeper.

RHP Riley Pint is 29 and spent all of 2025 injured while in the Guardians organization. He last pitched in the major leagues in 2024 for Colorado. In his 3.1 innings for the Rockies he had a 21.60 ERA. Pint has a high-90s fastball and a mid-90s sinker as well as a sweeper and a slider.

Tatis launches his foundation

On the Friday before FanFest, Fernando Tatis Jr. hosted a gala dinner to launch his foundation benefiting financial literacy for young (17-22) athletes in both San Diego and the Dominican Republic. Many of his teammates were there in support and he also has the backing of MLB. The name of the foundation is Fernando Tatis Full Court Foundation.

Camp 44

Padres pitcher Joe Musgrove hosts a week of activities for his teammates before every season. For the fourth consecutive year, Musgrove brought multiple players into town before FanFest for team building and bonding. He shared at FanFest that they spent time at the PLNU lab as well as working out at Petco Park and Mission Beach. Besides pitchers, multiple position players also participated.

More broadcast rights are voided

Between six and nine more teams have joined MLB as their broadcast partner for the 2026 season. The Detroit Tigers, Los Angeles Angels, Atlanta Braves, Milwaukee Brewers, Miami Marlins, Tampa Bay Rays, Kansas City Royals, St. Louis Cardinals and Cincinnati Reds have all withdrawn from their contracts with FanDuel Sports for broadcast rights for the season. The contracts were voided due to non-payment of rights fees from the network to the teams. Six of those teams have formally approached MLB to broadcast their games with the Tigers, Braves and Angels final decisions not yet clear. The Tigers owner also owns the Red Wings of the NHL and the FanDuel Sports Network also has contracts with NHL and NBA teams, including the Red Wings. The Braves are contemplating launching their own network and the Angels have declined comment.

This is in addition to the already seven teams being broadcast by MLB and the total could be over half of the league, pending final decisions. The media rights disparity between the haves and the have nots continues to grow and further complicates the future CBA negotiations.

Padres farm system ranks last

Keith Law of The Athletic has ranked the Padres farm system as the worst in MLB. Due to the trading of eight of their top 20 players at the last trade deadline, the Padres top prospect is catcher Ethan Salas. Salas, 19, has not played since April and was inactive because of a low back stress reaction. This should be a pivotal year in his development as a potential major league player. His defense behind the plate has never been questioned but his offensive ceiling is a question mark at this point.

The rest of the prospect list remains questionable with a lot of young and untested players in the top of the list. The new season should provide a lot more clarity about the upsides of many of these players.

FanFest media interviews

The San Diego Padres always provide media time for the players who attend their yearly fan-based baseball celebration. There are always a few news items that come out of these Q&A sessions with local media. Some nuggets that stood out:

Craig Stammen – He emphasized communication and relationships as his emphasis early in his new role. He visited multiple players after being hired, including his first-ever trip to the Dominican Republic to see Tatis Jr., Randy Vasquez and Ramon Laureano. When asked about the player who will play first base, he designated Gavin Sheets as the first option with Will Wagner and Sung-Mun Song as other possibilities.

He shared his confidence in Luis Campusano as the player who has the best chance to win the back-up catcher position. He played with Campusano as a player and expressed his desire to see him be successful as a major league catcher and hitter.

Michael King – King said in both his media time and his pitcher forum appearance that A.J. Preller was the main reason he re-signed with the Padres. He has trust in Preller and his ability to build a winning team every year. That was his main priority in signing a multi-year deal. He also shared that Yu Darvish was involved in his contract negotiations and got him some extra money. He stated that the media should ask Preller about that.

A.J. Preller – He was asked about the comment King made and he referred to Darvish caring a lot about his teammates and the organization. He will do anything he can to help others, including offering to give up his own salary to make the team better going forward. He has always given his best as a player and his offering to void his contract is just another part of who he is as a teammate and a Padre.

Preller said there would be no cutting of payroll and the team intends to add before the season. At least a starter and a couple bats. His own contract situation is a work in progress and that is partly due to the fact that he is not focused on it. His focus is on building a team and getting ready for the season. The contract will come at some point. He specifically referred to the next couple weeks as a probable timeline.

Fernando Tatis Jr. – He expressed his happiness at starting his foundation and participating in Camp 44 this year. He repeated his statement from last FanFest that he wants to prove his ability to fans and baseball and has worked to fix the issues affecting him last season. In his comments during the Q&A during the player forum, Tatis said his goal is to win the league MVP.

Jackson Merrill – In his usual direct and honest fashion, Merrill acknowledged the difficult season he had in 2025 with the injuries and inconsistencies. He looks forward to a “consistent vibe” this season with Craig Stammen as manager, with no ups and downs. He emphasized his focus is on hitting the fastball and his swing is tailored to that goal. He will not focus on the Dodgers but on beating every team they face. He expressed it as an F-U mentality for himself and the team.

All the players interviewed used the word “Respect” in reference to their impression of Stammen. They all also shared that a younger and more relatable coaching staff will be welcomed and they have already been active in offseason work.

The Cleveland Cavaliers have already acquired three rotation guards at the trade deadline in James Harden, Dennis Schroder, and Keon Ellis. Apparently, they could be adding more.

According to Michal Scotto of HoopsHype, the Cavaliers and the Milwaukee Bucks are two teams that are interested in acquiring Brooklyn Nets guard Cam Thomas.

Thomas is your prototypical sixth man. He’s a 6’2” guard who comes off the bench with the sole purpose of getting buckets. On the season, Thomas is averaging 15.6 points and 3.1 assists on .399/.325/.843 shooting splits in 24.3 minutes per game.

Staying on the court has been an issue for Thomas throughout his five-year NBA career. The 24-year-old has only played over 65 games twice. Last season, he appeared in 25, and this season, he’s played in just half of Brooklyn’s games.

Figuring out exactly who the Cavs would be sending out for Thomas is difficult. Technically, the Cavs could acquire Thomas without sending out any players as he could be traded for via the $6.9 million trade exception that was created from the De’Andre Hunter trade with the Sacremento Kings. Thomas is on an expiring $5.9 million deal.

It’s also worth questioning how Thomas would fit with the Cavs. The ability to stagger Donovan Mitchell and Harden makes the need for a guard bench scorer less necessary. Thomas likely wouldn’t get minutes over Schroder, and the team already has plenty of two guards that need minutes.

It’s possible that targeting Thomas would make more sense as part of a larger deal.

We’ll see if anything comes of this rumor. The trade deadline is Thursday at 3 PM.

Flamengo and Inter are set for their clash this Wednesday (4th) in the second round of the Brasileirão.

The match will take place at Maracanã and brings together two teams that lost in the opening round of the championship.

The Rubro-Negro was defeated by São Paulo away from home, while Colorado fell to Athletico-PR at Beira-Rio.

See below for the starting lineups:

Flamengo

Lucas Paquetá plays his first match as a starter after returning to Flamengo.

Jorginho, suspended, and Saúl, who is still recovering from injury, were already expected absences.

Luiz Araújo will also miss Wednesday's match due to muscle pain. 

In addition, Danilo is out due to personal reasons.

Inter

The starting lineup is the same as in the victory in the Gre-Nal played for the Gauchão.

Forward Alerrandro has been included in the squad for the first time at Inter and will start the match on the bench.

Signed in this transfer window, midfielder Rodrigo Villagra was not even included in the squad.

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

📸 Buda Mendes - 2025 Getty Images

In Bradley Locker’s recent Pro Football Focus feature outlining one free agent each NFL team should pursue in 2026, the player connected to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers was linebacker Devin Lloyd.

That projection is telling.

Locker’s suggestion reflects a potential transition point at inside linebacker for Tampa Bay. With uncertainty surrounding the long-term future of Lavonte David and the evolving structure of Todd Bowles’ defense, adding a high-impact second-level defender would represent both reinforcement and forward planning.

Lloyd has developed into a versatile linebacker capable of playing downhill against the run while also holding up in coverage. In Bowles’ defense, the role of the 2026 defensive signal caller is up in the air. Buccaneers Mike linebackers are not just tasked with making tackles; they are responsible for communicating adjustments, holding up in coverage, and contributing as pass rushers, all while assuring everyone is on the field and in their assigned position.

If Tampa Bay were to pursue Lloyd, it would signal an emphasis on maintaining strength in the middle of the defense to make an immediate run at the playoffs next season, rather than allowing the defense to reset through the NFL draft. It would also indicate that the organization is prioritizing proven production at a premium defensive position.

Free agency is rarely simple, and cost will ultimately dictate feasibility. But Locker’s projection highlights a realistic fit between the player's skill set and the team's needs as the Buccaneers navigate a pivotal 2026 offseason.

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: PFF connects Devin Lloyd to Buccaneers in free agency

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While the Winter Olympics doesn’t start until Friday (Aug. 6) with the opening ceremony, events have already started with preliminary and qualifying rounds, ahead of the games. One of the three sports that starts early is curling, the fan-favorite ice and stone competition.

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Curling takes place at the Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Check out a complete schedule of the event here.

watch 2026 Winter olympics: curling on Peacock

When Does Winter Olympics: Curling Events Start?

Curling starts on Wednesday, Feb. 4, but Team USA begins competition on Thursday, Feb. 5, with a start time of 4:05 a.m. ET/1:05 a.m. PT on Peacock, or during NBC’s Primetime in Milan coverage daily during the games starting at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

Men’s, women’s and mixed curling are available to watch live and stream on demand. The events broadcast across NBC, USA Network and CNBC, as well as streaming on Peacock.

Peacock

Get Peacock

---

Can you stream curling on Peacock? Yes, Peacock goes for $10.99 per month for the Premium plan and $16.99 per month for the Premium Plus plan, both plans include coverage of all Olympic sports.

There is no free trial for new subscribers, but the streaming platform does come with various plans starting at $10.99 per month. However, you can sign up for a 30-day free trial for Walmart+, which comes with access to Peacock as part of the service. Learn more about Walmart+ here.

Outside of the Winter Olympics, Peacock comes with its own collection of original TV shows and movies, as well as programs from NBC, CNBC, USA Network, Bravo and others. TV Shows you can look forward to watching includes Poker Face, The Traitors, Couple to Throuple, The Best Man: The Final Chapters, Bel-Air, Love Island, Love Island Games, One of Us Is Lying, Dr. Death, Yellowstone, Suits, The Office, Modern Family and Parks & Recreation.

The streaming service is also the home to exclusive music programming, such as Girl You Know It’s True, Toby Keith: American Icon, When Metal Ruled the World, America’s Got Talent and others.

Where to Watch the Winter Olympic: Curling Online for Free

If you’re a cord-cutter, then there are a number of ways to watch curling without cable — especially if you want to watch for free. DirecTV has afive-day free trial, while Hulu + Live TV offers a free trial too. This is a good way to watch NBC, USA Network and CNBC without spending money up front.

Keep reading for more details on how to watch Winter Olympics: Curling on NBC, USA Network and CNBC with DirecTV and Hulu + Live TV and others.

DirecTV

Get 5-Day Free Trial

---

You can watch NBC, USA Network and CNBC on DirecTV. New users are eligible for a five-day free trial through DirecTV when you sign up for one of its packages. The streamer’s “MySports” streaming package goes for $69.99 per month.

Sling TV

Get Sling Blue

---

Sling TV offers the Blue + News Extra package, which goes for $60.99 per month and comes with NBC, USA Network, CNBC, MS NOW, Bravo and others. Blue is one of the most affordable options and comes with more than 40 channels and can be streamed on up to three devices at a time. Please note: Pricing and channel availability varies from market-to-market.

Hulu + Live TV

Get 3-day Free Trial

---

The networks NBC, USA Network and CNBC are available to watch with Hulu + Live TV too. Prices for the cable alternative start at $89.99 per month, while each plan comes with Hulu, Disney+ and ESPN Unlimited at no additional cost.

Hulu + Live TV might be best for those who want all of these streaming services together in one package. It features many other networks, like CBS, ABC, FOX, BET, CMT, Disney Channel, ESPN, Hallmark Channel and more.

More Ways to Watch

Viewers who want to stream the Winter Olympics internationally can use ExpressVPN, NordVPN and PureVPN to access several streaming platforms.

Winter Olympics: Curling broadcasts on NBC, USA Network and CNBC starting on Thursday, Feb. 5, at 4:05 a.m. ET/1:05 a.m. PT. Peacock and DirecTV are the best ways to watch events.

watch 2026 Winter olympics: curling on Peacock

Want more? For more product recommendations, check out our roundups of the best Xbox deals, studio headphones and Nintendo Switch accessories.

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NEED TO KNOW

• As he gears up for another season playing for the Kansas City Chiefs, offensive lineman Trey Smith weighed in on Travis Kelce's future with the team
• Amid rumors that the tight end might be retiring, he tells PEOPLE on Wednesday, Feb. 4 that he'll support whatever decision Kelce makes
• Smith also weighs in on the Chiefs not making the playoffs this year, explaining what the team has learned from their latest season

Trey Smith is gearing up for another NFL season with the Kansas City Chiefs, and he weighed in on Travis Kelce's future with the team amid rumors that the star tight end might be retiring.

On Wednesday, Feb. 4, the 26-year-old offensive lineman for the Kansas City Chiefs caught up with PEOPLE’s Janine Rubenstein in San Francisco at the SiriusXM set at Media Row.

As questions about Kelce's future in the NFL remain unanswered, Smith says that he will "support him wholeheartedly" no matter what he does. However, he wasn't going to spill any secrets about this teammate's plans.

"You know, at the end of the day, I want to keep his privacy, his privacy," he explains. "Like I said, whatever decision he makes, you know, that's my brother. That's a guy I've gone to war with countless times and a dude that I love wholeheartedly."

Smith, who has played with the Chiefs since joining the NFL in 2021, also weighs in on the increased interest in his team since the start of Kelce's high-profile relationship with Taylor Swift and their back-to-back Super Bowl wins in 2023 and 2024.

He says that he "got used to" the increased attention "a little fast" after experiencing similar attention while playing football at the University of Tennessee.

"For me, it was just making sure I live up to it," he says, explaining, "Making sure that I don't bring the standard down. And honestly, you know, with the spotlight, I'm a lineman. I'm in the shadows. You know what I mean? So it isn't too hard for me, you know? Yeah. It's cool to just watch those guys keep excelling."

After the Chiefs fell short of securing a spot in the playoffs ahead of the 2026 Super Bowl, Smith reflects on the team's "tough year" with a bit of positivity.

"It was really more so a welcome NFL moment, you know," he says, "Everything's not gonna be sunshine and roses. You're gonna have hardship; you're gonna have bad times. And I think for us, it was just as a team sticking together through the tough times, experiencing that, understanding we don't wanna experience that again."

He and his teammates are feeling united by "a common goal" during the off-season as they get ready for a comeback.

The team is also continuing to nurture the bond that they develop on the field.

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

"We have a group chat," Smith confirms, saying that they use it and are always "sending memes or goofy stuff on Instagram."

Who sends the best memes? According to Smith, the answer is offensive lineman Creed Humphrey.

While he's not playing in the 2026 Super Bowl on Sunday, Feb. 8, Smith did get to compete in the 2026 Pro Bowl on Tuesday, Feb. 3.

He jokes that his team got "robbed," but says that he had a good time regardless.

"It was something that I've wanted to do in my career for a while. Haven't had the opportunity, but it was nice to check that off my list," he says, adding that it was "cool to be able to just have conversations with guys that you respect across the league" and that he gained "a newfound respect" for a lot of players across the league.

Read the original article on People

Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes received a one-game suspension on Wednesday for pushing the Washington Wizards' mascot before a game last week.

Hayes pushed the mascot “G-Wiz” during pre-game introductions ahead of the Lakers’ 142-111 win on Friday.

Hayes had 10 points, three rebounds, an assist and a steal off the bench. He will serve the suspension on Feb. 5 when the Lakers host the Philadelphia 76ers, according to a statement from the NBA.

Hayes was drafted by Atlanta in the first round of the 2019 draft, but his rights were immediately traded over to New Orleans. He spent his first four seasons with the Pelicans before joining the Lakers in 2023.

___

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

It's Brasileirão night at Cícero de Souza Marques, in Bragança.

Red Bull Bragantino and Atlético Mineiro will face off starting at 7 PM (Brasília time).

The match is part of the second round of the competition.

And it will bring together two undefeated teams this season.

Premiere broadcasts.

Red Bull Bragantino 🐂

Massa Bruta has six wins and one draw.

One of their strengths is their defensive system: they've conceded only one goal.

Vagner Mancini rested most of the starters against São Bernardo.

And he will field the best available lineup again.

Atlético 🐓

After four consecutive draws, Galo bounced back in the Mineiro.

And debuted in the BR with an eventful draw against Palmeiras.

Sampaoli will serve a suspension for being sent off in the first round.

The advantage will be returning to full strength after several starters were rested against Pouso Alegre.

Photo: Reproduction/Red Bull Bragantino

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

The Florida Panthers enter tonight riding a four-game losing skid and are desperate for points to hang around in the playoff race.

My Bruins vs. Panthers predictions expect them to get a much-needed win in a big divisional clash on home ice.

Let’s break down my NHL picks for Wednesday, February 4, with puck drop set for 7:00 p.m. ET on TNT. 

Bruins vs Panthers prediction

Bruins vs Panthers best bet: Panthers moneyline (-140)

While the Florida Panthers haven’t gotten the results they’ve wanted, they have largely played good hockey since Matthew Tkachuk returned to the lineup.

In the eight games with Tkachuk healthy and available, the Panthers have controlled a 57.43% share of the scoring chances. That is the second-highest mark in the league, trailing only the Lightning, who won seven of their eight games.

They are spending a lot of time on the front foot and getting significantly more chances than they’re giving up.

That can’t be said of the Boston Bruins, who sit 26th with a 45.21% scoring chance share over the same period of time.

Part of that is the penalty trouble they’ve run into, but I’m not sure that can be dismissed. They lead the league in PIMs per game and sit 26th in PK% this season. It’s nothing new; it’s the norm.

Including special teams, the Panthers will likely earn an edge in the shot/chance department this evening. They might also get reinforcements as the returns of Brad Marchand and Anton Lundell are looming.

Look for the back-to-back Stanley Cup winners to give Boston their best shot in an attempt to get some crucial points before the break.

Bruins vs Panthers same-game parlay

Tkachuk leads the Panthers in high-danger chances and expected goals over the past eight games. He’s creating a lot of looks, and that should continue tonight. He always seems to save his best for the Bruins, averaging 3.7 shots on goal over the past 23 meetings.

The Bruins have had a couple of days off since the Stadium Series game, which should benefit Hampus Lindholm. He has been very productive in similar situations, recording multiple shots in six straight following two days of rest.

Bruins vs Panthers SGP

• Panthers moneyline
• Matthew Tkachuk anytime goal
• Hampus Lindholm Over 1.5 shots on goal

Bruins vs Panthers odds

• Moneyline: Bruins +120 | Panthers -140
• Puck Line: Bruins +1.5 (-200) | Panthers -1.5 (+165)
• Over/Under: Over 6.5 (+110) | Under 6.5 (-130)

Bruins vs Panthers trend

Florida has won seven of the past 10 matchups with Boston. Find more NHL betting trends for Bruins vs. Panthers.

How to watch Bruins vs Panthers

Bruins vs Panthers latest injuries

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here

GAINESVILLE — When Florida head coach Jon Sumrall surveys the college football landscape, he sees a sport barely recognizable to the one he played more than 20 years ago at Kentucky.

The transfer portal, seven-figure NIL deals and legal loopholes abound, but Sumrall isn’t bitter about it. The 43-year-old former linebacker pushes to keep pace.

A recent case hit close to home. Sumrall’s former quarterback, Darrian Mensah, who played under him at Tulane, is now at Miami — his third school in three seasons.

Mensah left Tulane for Duke before heading to Coral Gables, with a pot of gold at the end of each stop.

“He got a big bag, and I’m not even mad about that,” Sumrall said with a smile. “I’m happy for Darrian.”

Sumrall isn’t going to hate the player, even as the game becomes no-rules-barred pursuit of top talent.

Name, image and likeness legislation gives athletes agency to seek the biggest payday. The portal provides programs the fast track to a turnaround.

Wednesday’s National Signing Day no longer serves as a finish line for coaches building their program’s future. 

“It’s not really signing day anymore,” Sumrall said. “That’s kind of gone and passed. We kind of already know who’s on our team.”

The Early Signing Period in December and the transfer portal window in January reshaped the recruiting calendar. The Gators’ roster, like most programs, was finalized before February.

For all the change, Sumrall isn’t resisting.

The 2026 Gators are a collection of 30 transfers, led by Georgia Tech quarterback Aaron Philo, 20 high school signees and 62 returning players. For a program coming off a 4–8 season — its fourth losing record in five years — the portal provides the chance for a faster rebuild.

“I like the transfer portal. I like NIL. I like revenue sharing,” Sumrall said. “I think it’s great our players get paid. I’m for all that. I love the portal. Love it.”

Even as Sumrall celebrates the new model, he recognizes darker realities.

Once done in the shadows, tampering thrives in the current recruiting ecosystem. Coaches, agents and boosters from rival programs increasingly contact players under scholarship to gauge their interest before players have even entered the portal.

“I don’t know what’s enforced right now,” Sumrall said. “There’s been all this talk the last couple weeks about tampering. Yeah, no kidding. Every player on our team has been tampered with — 100 percent. I don’t lose my mind about it. Until there are penalties for it, what’s going to stop people from doing it?”

Sumrall said he’s not among those tampering, but acknowledges there are plenty of “back channels” — from agents to family members— that facilitate movement.

Along the way, things can get messy.

Mensah’s exodus from Duke to Miami spurred a lawsuit and a settlement because he’d agreed to a two-year contract the Blue Devils intended to enforce.

The NCAA’s recalibration of dates and rules escalates the issues.

Seeking to balance opportunities for transfers and high school recruits, decision-makers moved the Early Signing Period in 2025 to the first Wednesday in December to better align with the December transfer window. The NCAA then moved to portal to a single, 15-day window from Jan. 2-16.

“We moved the early signing period to protect the high school kids from losing their spots to transfers,” Sumrall said. “But then right after we did that, we moved the transfer portal back. So it’s like, why did we move the high school signing day in the first place? We fix one problem and create another.

“It just feels a little scattered.”

Sumrall doesn’t spend his time complaining.

This past Sunday, Sumrall sat courtside as Florida overwhelmed Alabama 100-77 despite the recent addition of 7-footer Charles Bediako, eligible because of a temporary injunction granted by a Tuscaloosa judge — and Crimson Tide booster.

The controversy inspired one of Sumrall’s funnier quips Wednesday.

“I wasn’t planning on sharing this today,” he said. “But we’re going to file a temporary restraining order and see if Tim Tebow can play short-yardage and goal-line quarterback. I don’t know what the hell is going on with all that.

“We’re going to coach who they let us coach and recruit who they let us recruit. But the problem is I think that’s such a moving target that you don’t know who’s allowed to play, and the rule may change tonight or tomorrow or whatever.”

At Tulane, Sumrall proved he could adapt faster than most.

The Green Wave’s 2025 roster featured nearly 60 new players, including 35 transfers. The most notable was BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff, who joined as a walk-on following a suspension for violating the school’s honor code.

Retzaff passed a thorough background check, earned the starting role and led the Green Wave to the College Football Playoff.

A similar scenario in Gainesville isn’t necessarily expected, but nothing surprises Sumrall anymore.

While college football is increasingly chaotic, Sumrall remains pragmatic.

“You can sit here and whine and complain about the way the rules are or you can just embrace them and try to adapt and make them work the best for you,” he said.

Edgar Thompson can be reached at egthompson@orlandosentinel.com.

Two major trades Wednesday involving former Duke stars Jared McCain and Marvin Bagley: McCain will join Oklahoma City and Bagley is heading south of there to Dallas.

These were big deals. The Sixers sent

As for the Wizards-Mavericks trade, Dallas gets Bagley, Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson and Malaki Branham and two first-round picks along with three second-round.

In return, the Wizards get Always Damaged, Jaden Hardy, D’Angelo Russell and Dante Exum.

Given Davis’s injury history and age, Dallas looks like it cleaned up.

As for the Sixers-OKC deal, the Thunder get McCain while Philly gets a 2026 first-round pick and three second round picks.

McCain should get some minutes since Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is out for a while with an injury, so at least he gets a chance to make an impression.

In a subsequent trade, OKC also picked up former Duke big man Mason Plumlee.

• NBA trade deadline 2026: Mavs reportedly trading Anthony Davis to Wizards in 8-player swap; 76ers sending Jared McCain to Thunder; latest on Giannis Antetokounmpo
• Mavericks’ Marvin Bagley: Traded to Dallas
• Hornets hop in Thunder-76ers trade action
• BREAKING: OKC Thunder STUNS with Trade For Jared McCain | SGA OUT Through All-Star Break
• 76ers trade Jared McCain, their 2024 first-round pick, to Thunder before NBA deadline
• Shams: 76ers create roster room by trading Jared McCain
• Jared McCain Trade Highlights 76ers’ Dominance Over Thunder
• Sixers trade Jared McCain to Oklahoma City Thunder for 4 draft picks, AP reports
• Ex-Pistons big man traded to Mavericks as part of blockbuster Anthony Davis deal
• Wizards Emerge as Trade Deadline’s Biggest Winner After Another Bold Blockbuster Move
• Mavericks unexpectedly trade for player Kings thought would be better than Luka Doncic
  Mavericks Trade Anthony Davis to Wizards in Blockbuster Eight-Player Stunner
• X

Newcastle United face a worsening injury crisis after Anthony Gordon was subbed off during the first half of their Carabao Cup semi-final clash against Manchester City with a hamstring issue.

With 43 minutes on the clock, Aaron Ramsdale sent a long ball forward for Gordon, playing on the left wing, to chase down. The winger set up but checked his run before dropping to the floor and signalling to City’s Phil Foden that his hamstring had gone.

The Newcastle physios provided some treatment for Gordon, including massaging his left hamstring, and the 24-year-old managed to hobble off to the side of the pitch before being replaced by Harvey Barnes before the break.

Man City’s Omar Marmoush had already netted twice with Tijjani Reijnders on the scoresheet as well as the hosts had increased their lead in the tie to 5-0 on aggregate before Gordon’s injury.

He substitution will likely have had little impact on the outcome of the semi-final but causes concern for Newcastle’s hopes in the Premier League and Champions League.

Eddie Howe is already missing key members of his first team squad with captain Bruno Guimaraes, midfielder Joelinton and defenders Lewis Mileu, Emil Krafth, Tino Livramento and Fabian Schar all on the sidelines.

February is a busy time for the Magpies with an FA Cup fourth round clash with Aston Villa scheduled for the 14th before a two-legged play-off against Qarabag in the Champions League to be played on 18th and 24th.

Howe cannot afford to lose any more players as results are beginning to suffer with his team currently on a three-match winless run in the league.

The extent of Gordon’s injury is, as of yet, unknown but a typical recovery period for hamstring issues is between four and 12 weeks.

If Newcastle's Carabao Cup semi-final tie with Manchester City couldn't get any worse, Eddie Howe now has a fresh injury blow to navigate.

The Magpies trailed 2-0 on aggregate heading into Wednesday night's clash at the Etihad Stadium, but any hope of a heroic comeback was quickly shut down as City stormed ahead inside the opening 10 minutes.

Omar Marmoush bagged a first-half brace, before midfielder Tijjani Reijnders delivered another sucker punch blow to make it 5-0 on aggregate before the break.

If that wasn't enough for Howe, winger Anthony Gordon then went down with an apparent hamstring issue and was forced off as a result.

The England international was subsequently replaced by Harvey Barnes, but Howe will no doubt be sweating over Gordon's fitness with crucial Premier League matches, an FA Cup fourth round tie and a Champions League play-off tie to navigate this month.

Gordon potentially joins an injury list already consisting of Lewis Miley, Bruno Guimarães, Joelinton, Tino Livramento and Fabian Schär.

📸 Kate McShane - 2026 Getty Images

If Bennett Scheffler is going to follow in his father's footsteps one day as a professional golfer, he's getting in some early reps.

Bennett has watched his dad, world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, dominate the golf world ever since he was born. He has been a part of double-digit trophy ceremonies and has spent plenty of time on the golf course in his early life.

And Wednesday, he was at TPC Scottsdale taking in a pre-tournament press conference with his dad ahead of the WM Phoenix Open and also on the course during a practice round getting some swings in.

The real star on the course, Bennett Scheffler 🤩 pic.twitter.com/sHjfYAsOwA

— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) February 4, 2026

Bennett, with his plastic club and ball, was hitting shots across the fairways at TPC Scottsdale, with Scheffler's caddie Ted Scott even joining in on the fun, saying he was going to get Bennett a yardage before throwing some grass up in the air.

Scheffler played in Wednesday's pro-am with Travis Kelce, but Bennett stole the show.

This article originally appeared on Golfweek: Scottie Scheffler’s son Bennett steals the show at WM Phoenix Open

MILAN ― An Olympian is expected to embody perfection. Premier athletes on the world’s biggest stage, what could possibly be wrong belonging to an elite class of excellence?

The truth: a whole lot.

It takes a tremendous amount of physical strength to make the Olympic Games, but it’s just as challenging to maintain the mental aspect of it. Gracie Gold knows that better than most.

A 2014 Olympic bronze medalist figure skater, Gold helped open the conversation around mental health struggles. Doing so left her extremely vulnerable, but her courage helped others come forward and share similar experiences. 

Now, Gold’s role in the Olympics is a little different. She's an IOC mental health ambassador, serving as a role model and advocate to help Olympians deal with the stress and pressure that comes with the Games. With the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics beginning this week, there is a great emphasis on making sure athletes have the space to care for their minds just as much as their bodies.

Mental pressures of Olympics

No matter how many times athletes try to approach the Olympics as just another event, it’s hard to hold that mindset.

“Everything feels so different when you have the Olympics on the line,” Gold told USA TODAY Sports.

The pressure is higher, and it doesn’t help that nearly the entire planet is watching. Gold recalled being 18 years old at her first Olympics in 2014 and how "really intense” it was in Sochi, Russia. She didn’t really know how to deal with it, and she said she felt the IOC didn’t prioritize it as much as it should have or provide enough resources for mental health.

That led to her questioning if her feelings were invalid or should be outweighed by the prestige of being an Olympian. She also figured if she just had clean skates and did well, the struggle wouldn’t persist.

Evidently, a bronze medal in the team event and fourth place finish in the women’s singles didn’t make the problems go away. Her mental health concerns continued for years afterward, and Gold made a stunning announcement in 2017 that she would take a break from competition to treat her anxiety and depression.

After she came forward, Gold learned she wasn’t alone.

"I realized the amount of people that come up to me, even to this day, that are like this resonated, or this resonated, or, 'I know what you felt here and here.' I realized how, actually, that my story was not unique," said Gold, who did return to skating after nearly a year off and in 2024 wrote a memoir titled, 'Outofshapeworthlessloser: A Memoir of Figure Skating, F*cking Up, and Figuring It Out.'

Gold’s vulnerability paved the way for current stars like Amber Glenn to be open about her mental health journey while skating. Glenn has talked about the lowest points of her life and having a mentality of just surviving the day. She allowed the world into her life, sharing her journey while taking care of her mental health. 

Now considered a veteran in U.S. figure skating, Glenn wants to use the lessons she learned to help others, similar to Gold.

"I've been very outspoken about the ups and downs that I've had in my career, because I want people to know that that's OK,” Glenn said.

How athletes can care for mental health at 2026 Winter Olympics

There are multiple ways athletes can take care of their mental health at the 2026 Winter Olympics, with resources now widely available at the Olympic Village.

It starts with the Mind Zone, a quiet, peaceful space where tranquility can be found. There’s room to do meditation or yoga, another where athletes can use virtual reality to put them in calming settings, or even a closed-off area where Olympians can simply relax. 

The Mind Zone was tested at the 2024 Paris Olympics, and now upgraded for the 2026 Olympic Games, Gold called it “revolutionary.”

There are also calming canteen spaces, where you’re surrounded by plants and calming music is played. If there’s a need for more care, there are welfare officers around the village who can speak to athletes privately about anything going through their minds.  

"That will help for all the people that might avoid it because of those feelings of shame or embarrassments or whatever people typically feel,” Gold said. "We have the welfare officers around, but being able to have a private moment with them, I think could be really special.”

Gold hopes athletes take advantage of the opportunities, acknowledge if something feels off and seek help. There’s a widely-held belief you should feel on top of the world at the Olympics, and she believes there shouldn’t be any shame in feeling a different way. It’s a normal feeling and can be treated without needing to have a crisis. 

"The hardest thing to do is to try to compete at the Olympics, not feeling trained physically and not being trained or feeling well mentally,” Gold said.

Mental health care has come a long way at the Olympics, and Gold is glad to see things are getting better for those experiencing some of the biggest moments in their lives.

"It's really just come full circle of having experienced it, survived it, grown from it," Gold said. "And now I have a leadership role in it."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Olympics mental health resources didn't always exist. Why it matters

Pouya Rahmani’s upcoming fight was the least of his worries.

The undefeated heavyweight had a hard time focusing on his PFL Dubai clash with Karl Williams following the death of his coach Mahdi Zatparvar and friends back in his home country of Iran, but decided to keep pushing forward to honor them inside the cage.

It’s estimated thousands of people have died in Iran over the past few weeks after taking to the streets to protest the authoritarian government, and Rahmani said he had a “very tough camp” after Zatparvar ended up “killed in the street.”

“I lost my coach in this camp. I lost a lot of my friends,” Rahmani told MMA Fighting. “In our country, people are fighting for freedom, so I lost a lot of my friends, It was very hard for me to be active, to train, to push myself, because this coach I had every day, we used to talk with each other. He was like a psychologist and he was my conditioning coach, and it was very hard for me to accept that your coach and your best friend, you lose. And next day you cannot talk to him, you know? It was very hard for me.

“And then at one point I said, ‘No, man, you have to win this fight because he was focused a lot on me.’ He was trying to do everything for me to win the fight, so I have to win the fight and give this fight to him.”

Rahmani has lived in Dubai for five years, training and teaching at Team Nogueira. He didn’t go to the gym for days after receiving the bad news.

“When this happened, two, three days I stopped training,’ Rahmani said. “And then after two, three days, a lot of friends, we had close friends, they all was talking with me and saying, ‘No, you have to fight. You have to give this fight to him.’ After three days, when I started training, I pushed really hard, I passed my limit and I did my best to be on the good shape to finish this fight the best way I can.”

Rahmani decided to keep going. He faces Williams this Saturday, competing under MMA rules for the first time in Dubai. He has grappled before in the area and shrugs off any notion of pressure to deliver in a different sport.

“We don’t think about losing, brother,” Rahmani said. “For us, just winning. We don’t think at all about losing the fight. Anyone, doesn’t matter. When I fight I’m just thinking about winning.  I don’t put myself under the pressure, ‘Oh, maybe you lose,’ no. I don’t see that.”

Facing a UFC veteran doesn’t mean anything to him either. Williams went 3-1 inside the octagon with wins over Lukasz Brzeski, Chase Sherman, and Justin Tafa before losing a decision to Jhonata Diniz in 2024. Williams wasn’t signed to a new contract, instead moving to PFL the following year and losing to Oleg Popov and Sergey Bilostenniy.

“I trained with a lot of heavyweights of UFC, brother,” Rahmani said. “They’re not that level you think, you know? And people think because they are UFC fighters they are something special, but it’s not like that. I train with top 5 UFC, they are not something special, they are normal fighters.

“I don’t see something special on this guy, Karl Williams. I fight better guy than him when I was fighting in Russia. I fight the ACA champion. And ACA champion can beat top 5 UFC. You have to see what they do in Russia. I don’t care if he fights UFC or something, now we are in PFL and he’s going to get smashed.”

Rahmani has racked up a perfect 5-0 record in the sport with a 100 percent finishing rate, all before the three-minute mark, and he trashes fellow heavyweights who put on “boring” fights. His first PFL bout ended with a knockout over Slim Trabelsi.

“I’m looking for a finish, either in the ground or in a standup,” Rahmani said. “It doesn’t matter. If he gives me one second chance, I’m going to finish him.”

The Iranian heavyweight hopes a big stoppage Saturday could immediately put him in the conversation for a shot at the elite of the division in PFL, namely champion Vadim Nemkov and PFL star Francis Ngannou. Rahmani, however, doesn’t see either being on the same level in terms of technique and skill.

“They either give me Francis Ngannou or Nemkov,” Rahmani said. “Any of them they give, I’m happy, I think Francis just has one one more fight, right? I would be happy to smash him, you know, and I finish his career with loss.”

Rahmani isn’t sure Ngannou will ever re-enter the PFL cage, though.

“[Ngannou] was hungry for the fight before, but he don’t have that hunger for the fight anymore,” he continued. “I don’t feel anything. When I see him him fighting, I feel he’s not that [hungry]. And the thing is, Francis always fight with the good striker. He never fight with one good wrestler. You have to see Francis Ngannou against me.

“Like we say in jiu-jitsu, I make him white belt in front of people. He used to train with my last opponent and there is video in YouTube, he used to beat him up, he used to take him down, and used to smash him on the ground. With me it’s different scenario. I’m world champion in this sport and he cannot do anything. When I put him down, he just need to pray to God to survive.”

Rahmani respects Nemkov’s fighting abilities, but wasn’t surprised to see him dominate Renan Ferreira with ease in his most recent appearance to claim a vacant PFL heavyweight championship.

“Ferreira has zero grappling,” Rahmani said. “He has good boxing, but he has zero grappling. Francis Ngannou is no grappler and Francis Ngannou take him down and finish him. I wasn’t surprised when he got takedown and he was not able to do anything. The most funny thing is he’s Brazilian, but he doesn’t know jiu-jitsu. It’s bad.”

According to Rahmani, the PFL champion “was talking about me” in Russian media two years ago, back when he was still competing in Russian soil, so there’s a narrative to build between the two.

“He said he was interested to fight me because I think I fight and beat his teammate,” Rahmani said. “Now he’s champion and I would love to fight him and smash him because we have his story from back. … The other guys in PFL, they are very boring. I see the final of tournament, It was very boring for me to watch that fight. People wants to see something special, you know? Some good action. And I always give to people that action, either I fight grappling or I fight MMA. My fight not going to be boring at all. After this fight, hopefully I get my title fight. They need new blood in the division.”

The Toronto Raptors were tied to the likes of Anthony Davis, Domantas Sabonis and even Ja Morant at this trade deadline. But in a surprising move just 24 hours before the deadline hits, the Raps have acquired future Hall of Famer Chris Paul in a three-team trade.

But hold your excitement, Raptors fans. CP3 won’t actually be coming to the Great White North. The team has no intention of actually making him report. The deal was made for luxury tax purposes only.

The Raptors will not require Chris Paul to report to the team and could still discuss trades involving him over the next day. Toronto is now out of the tax. Brooklyn picks up an asset and cash to cover Agbaji's salary. The Clippers clear a roster spot and save $7 million in tax. https://t.co/2Bu0sGZzJB

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 4, 2026

Shams Charania reports that the Raptors could still look to flip him, while Chris Haynes says they’re expected to waive him.

The 40-year-old future Hall of Famer hasn’t played in over two months, since the LA Clippers made the decision to send him home. But he was still on the team’s roster, allowing Toronto to make this deal to ship out Ochai Agbaji’s $6.4 million contract to Brooklyn and get out of the tax.

The trade also sent the Raptors’ second-round pick in 2032 to the Nets as part of the deal.

In the meantime, Toronto will continue to consider other trade options in advance of Thursday’s 3pm Eastern deadline. Sabonis is still a possibility in talks with the Sacramento Kings.

Related Headlines

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The Arizona Cardinals moved quickly to secure first-time head coach Mike LaFleur a veteran offensive coordinator.

The Cardinals are set to hire Nathaniel Hackett as their new offensive coordinator, according to multiple reports.

Hackett will join the Cardinals after spending the 2025 NFL season as a defensive analyst with the Green Bay Packers. The 46-year-old worked alongside Matt LaFleur – brother of Mike – in that role, just as he did during his stint as Green Bay's offensive coordinator from 2019-21.

Hackett's original stint in Green Bay was when his coaching staff initially rose. It was his third stop as an NFL offensive coordinator, after serving in the role on Doug Marrone's staff with the Buffalo Bills (2013-14) and Jacksonville Jaguars (2016-18), and Hackett developed a strong working relationship with Aaron Rodgers.

Rodgers earned back-to-back MVP nods in 2020 and 2021 under Hackett's leadership. He became a coveted coaching candidate and ultimately landed the head coaching job with the Denver Broncos during the 2022 NFL season.

Things didn't go well in Hackett's lone season as a head coach. He struggled with game and management while Russell Wilson floundered in the first-year coach's offense. Denver posted a 4-11 record before making Hackett a one-and-done coach.

After that, Hackett took the offensive coordinator job with the Jets, where he reunited with Rodgers and, ironically, replaced Mike LaFleur. New York ranked dead-last in EPA per play in 2023, per the NFL's Next Gen Stats, a campaign during which Rodgers played just four snaps. The Jets improved to 17th in EPA per play in 2024, but Hackett was stripped of play-calling duties by interim coach Jeff Hafley after Robert Saleh was fired following a 2-3 start to the season.

LaFleur will be hoping Hackett can replicate the success he enjoyed on his brother's staff with the Packers. Green Bay ranked top-10 in both yards and points per game over Hackett's final two seasons as the team's offensive coordinator.

Hackett had originally accepted an offer to serve as the Miami Dolphins' quarterbacks coach alongside Jeff Hafley, with whom he worked in his most recent stint with the Packers. The Dolphins will need to replace Hackett after he was promoted to join the Cardinals.

Nathaniel Hackett teams coached

Hackett got his NFL start as a quality control assistant with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2006. The team employed his father, Paul Hackett, as their quarterbacks coach at the time.

Below is a full look at Hackett's NFL coaching history:

• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2006-07)
  • Offensive quality control
• Buffalo Bills (2008-09)
  • Offensive quality control
• Buffalo Bills (2013-14)
  • Offensive coordinator
• Jacksonville Jaguars (2015-18)
  • Quarterbacks coach (2015-16)
  • Offensive coordinator (2016-18)
• Green Bay Packers (2019-21)
  • Offensive coordinator
• Denver Broncos (2022)
  • Head coach
• New York Jets (2023-24)
  • Offensive coordinator
• Green Bay Packers (2025)
  • Defensive analyst
• Arizona Cardinals (2026)
  • Offensive coordinator

Hackett also had stops at Stanford (2003-05) and Syracuse (2010-12) as part of his coaching journey to date.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Cardinals hire Nathaniel Hackett as offensive coordinator, per reports

Indiana women’s basketball (12-11, 1-10 Big Ten) is set to take on Wisconsin (13-9, 5-6 Big Ten) at home on Wednesday evening.

The Hoosiers’ last outing was an 89-75 win over Northwestern at home, their first conference victory on the season. Indiana rode a 30-3 first quarter run to victory, holding off a late comeback effort from the Wildcats to earn the win.

The Badgers’ last outing was an 81-58 thumping on the road at No. 11 Ohio State. It’s Wisconsin’s first season under new head coach Robin Pingeton, who spent over a decade in the same position at Missouri. They’ve put together some solid games, beating Nebraska and Oregon at home.

It’ll be a challenge for a Hoosier squad looking for its second win in Big Ten play and first on the road.

Here’s what to know about the game:

Indiana Hoosiers at Wisconsin Badgers

• Game Time/Date: 7:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, February 4
• Game Location: The Kohl Center
• TV Channel: N/A
• Streaming:B1G+
• Radio:B97

Swindon Town have been fined and thrown out of this year's Vertu Trophy after fielding two illegible players against Luton Town last month.

The EFL released its verdict today confirming the Robins' removal from this year's tournament a fine of £40,000 of which £20,000 will be suspended.

"Swindon Town Football Club is deeply disappointed by the Independent Disciplinary Commission’s decision to remove the Club from this season’s Vertu Trophy," the club said in response.

"We strongly believe this outcome is unfair and do not agree with the findings. That said, we respect the disciplinary process and the authority of the Commission.

"Right now, our focus has to be on moving forward together as a football club. We will take time to reflect, learn from what has happened, and make sure we continue to meet the highest standards in everything we do.

"Above all, our priority remains with our players, staff, and supporters. We will keep backing them fully as we push on and compete with everything we have in our remaining fixtures this season."

NEED TO KNOW

• The Winter Olympics 2026 are happening in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo in Italy
• The special sports event will feature over 3,500 athletes, representing 93 countries and 16 disciplines
• In addition, other Northern Italian towns will host different sports

Italy is welcoming the world’s greatest athletes to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo.

The 2026 Olympics mark the fourth time Italy has hosted the Olympic Games, and this edition features a co-hosting format.

Milan will serve as the hub for indoor events like ice hockey, figure skating and speed skating, while Cortina d’Ampezzo, one of the world’s most storied mountain resorts, will be the center of skiing, snowboarding and curling.

Additional events will be sprinkled across other northern Italian venues, including Valtellina and Val di Fiemme.

For the United States audience, Peacock is streaming every sports match live, but if the six-hour time difference feels daunting, full-event replays will make it easy to watch later.

Here’s everything to know about the Winter Olympics 2026.

When do the 2026 Winter Olympics start?

The 2026 Winter Olympics will run from Feb. 4 through Feb. 22.

The nearly three-week sports extravaganza begins with the Opening Ceremony on Feb. 6 in Milan’s San Siro Stadio.

Mariah Carey is slated to perform, alongside renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, The White Lotus’ Sabrina Impacciatore and pianist Lang Lang.

Coverage of the event begins on NBC and Peacock at 12 p.m. ET on Friday, Feb. 6, with primetime coverage kicking off at 8 p.m. ET.

While the Milan Cortina Games officially start with the Opening Ceremony, there is early competition on Feb. 4 and Feb. 5 for sports like curling, hockey, luge, skiing and snowboarding.

Where are the 2026 Winter Olympics happening?

The 2026 Winter Olympics will unfold in multiple regions and venues across Milan and Cortina.

The Northern Italian duo put in a joint bid to host the Games to the International Olympic Committee in 2018 and officially beat out Sweden’s Stockholm and Åre submission in 2019, per the Olympics website. Italy’s competitive edge was due to 93% of its venues being pre-existing or temporary structures.

The majority of the events will be hosted by Milan (Milano), the second most populous Italian city after Rome, and the economic capital. Cortina d’Ampezzo is an Alpine ski resort town in the Dolomiti Superski area.

A few other towns will also host Olympic events like Alpine skiing, ski mountaineering, ski jumping and Nordic combined, including Rasen-Antholz, Bormio, Livigno, Predazzo and Tesero.

This will be the fourth time that Italy has hosted the Winter Olympics. The first was Cortina in 1956, followed by Turin in 2006. In addition, the country hosted the Summer Olympics in Rome in 1960.

Which countries are competing in the 2026 Winter Olympics?

There are 93 nations represented by over 3,500 athletes in 16 disciplines, as well as six Paralympic sports.

Team USA’s Mikaela Shiffrin, a three-time Olympic medalist,  is on the hunt for her second giant slalom gold medal. Lindsay Vonn will be the oldest competitive female Alpine skier at the Games after coming off a five-year retirement. She is the only American woman to win a gold medal in Olympic downhill skiing and has previously won 12 World Cup races in Cortina.

The man with one of the most unique nicknames, Ilia “Quad God” Malinin, will be taking his high-flying act to the ice. The reigning world champion has the distinction of being the first and only skater to complete a quadruple axel in international competition and recently became the only skater to land seven quadruple jumps in one program.

Hometown favorites Stefania Constantini and Amos Mosaner from Italy have never lost in an international curling competition. They went undefeated during their first Games in Beijing in 2022. After a three-year hiatus, they ran the table again at the 2025 World Mixed Doubles Curling Championship. Mosaner will be a flag bearer in the Opening Ceremony.

Czechia’s Ester Ledecká won gold medals in the Super-G (Alpine skiing) and the parallel giant slalom (snowboarding) at the 2018 PyeongChang Games, making her a two-sport champion. She followed that up with another gold in parallel giant slalom at the 2022 Beijing Games. The Winter Olympics 2026 schedule will not allow her to attempt another double, so she will compete in snowboarding. If she wins, she will be the first snowboarder to win gold at three consecutive Olympics.

National Hockey League (NHL) players are returning to the Olympics for the first time since 2014. Canada is a favorite with a stacked roster, including NHL stars Sidney Crosby, Nathan MacKinnon, Connor McDavid and Cale Makar. Fans are hoping for a rematch of the 4 Nations Face-Off in 2025, which saw Canada defeat the USA 3-2 in overtime.

Laila Edwards will become the first Black woman to play ice hockey for the U.S. Women’s Olympic Team at the Milano Cortina Games. The University of Wisconsin star won two national championships under coach Mark Johnson, who was a member of the 1980 ‘Miracle on Ice’ hockey team.

What is the 2026 Winter Olympics schedule?

Eight new events have been added to the Olympic lineup, including the debut of ski mountaineering (skimo) and new mixed-gender and women’s events in luge, ski jumping, skeleton, freestyle skiing and alpine skiing.

Otherwise, the Games will feature the full slate of core Winter Olympic sports spread across Italy’s urban and alpine venues.

Alpine skiing (downhill, slalom, giant slalom, Super-G) will dominate the mountain program at Cortina d’Ampezzo and Bormio from about Feb. 7 to 18. Figure skating takes center ice in Milan from Feb. 6 to 19, alongside short track and long-track speed skating.

Ice hockey and curling will also run throughout the Games in Milan and Cortina, with medal rounds and finals late in the schedule.

Nordic events, like cross-country skiing, biathlon, ski jumping and Nordic combined, are hosted in the Val di Fiemme and Anterselva valleys across mid-February.

Freestyle skiing and snowboarding, including crowd-favorites like halfpipe, slopestyle, big air, ski cross, snowboard cross, and dual moguls, take place in the Livigno Snow Park cluster.

Where can I watch the 2026 Winter Olympics?

In the United States, the bulk of the Winter Olympics coverage will come from NBCUniversal’s platforms, including NBC, USA Network and CNBC.

NBC will have at least five hours of live coverage per day from the morning through the afternoon. The action picks up again at night with Primetime in Milan, where veteran sportscaster Mike Tirico recaps the day's most captivating events and adds a human element with athlete features.

CNBC will return with its tradition of comprehensive curling coverage at the end of the business day. Meanwhile, USA Network is the hub for 24/7 Team USA-centric programming across multiple sports, like hockey, alpine skiing, freestyle skiing and snowboarding.

The entirety of the Winter Olympics will be streamed on Peacock, meaning that viewers will have a front-row seat to all 116 medal events. For those unable to keep up with the Games via television or streaming, scores, standings, team rosters, medal counts and schedules will be available on NBCOlympics.com.

The Games will culminate with a Closing Ceremony in Verona’s historic Arena di Verona on Feb. 22, making it the first Olympic Ceremony to take place at a World Heritage Site. The celebration will also spill out to Piazza Bra and the Verona Philharmonic Theatre. The theme is Beauty in Action, which is described as "a tribute to beauty in motion, in all its forms: present in sport, reflected in art, nourished by human connection, and expressed by the places that host the Games."

The ceremony will feature acclaimed Italian étoile Roberto Bolle and Milan Cortina will make the flag handover to the French Alps, who will host the 2030 Olympic Winter Games.

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As the February signing period approaches on Wednesday, Rivals is breaking down where some of the top prospects at each position inked. Next up: offensive tackles.

One of the most coveted positions on the board, this year’s group featured a handful of five-stars and 11 prospects who ranked among the top-100 recruits nationally. And that doesn’t include a few that Rivals is higher on than the rest of the recruiting industry.

Here’s where each signed:

1. Jackson Cantwell — Miami

School: Nixa (Mo.)
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 2 NATL.

Scouting Summary: “Big-framed offensive tackle with eye-popping athleticism and functional strength as a high school underclassman. Measured at over 6-foot-7, 305 pounds prior to his sophomore season. Has solid length with 33.5-inch arms and big hands. Owns a phenomenal athletic profile as one of the top shot put throwers in the country for his age group. Posted a personal best throw of over 64 feet as a freshman. Also posted strong testing numbers in the college camp setting. Transfers those gifts over to the football field where he shows strong coordination and function strength. Moves well laterally and plays with a good anchor. Initially began his career as a tight end and has grown into an offensive tackle. Has deep athletic bloodlines with both parents being Olympic track and field athletes as throwers. Younger for the cycle with a May birthday.”

2. Five-Star Plus+ Immanuel Iheanacho — Oregon

School: Georgetown Prep (Md.)
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 7 NATL.

Scouting Summary: “Mountain of an offensive tackle prospect. Has truly rare dimensions for a young offensive tackle. Checked in at nearly 6-foot-7, 350 pounds with startlingly 36-inch long arms and big hands prior to his junior season. Shows good flexibility and functional movement skills at his immense size. Owns one of the more powerful punches we’ve seen among offensive tackle prospects in the past few cycles. Absolutely stones defensive linemen at the point of attack. Length, hand strength, and girth create a nearly unmovable anchor. Played on the defensive line early in his high school career, showing off some nice athleticism. Also has a basketball background.

…Turned in a strong showing at the Under Armour All-America Game before his senior season. Gained nearly 40 pounds as a junior, weighing in at over 380 pounds on official visits. Will need to trim down and maintain his movement skills. Must also continue improving his overall consistency in the high school football setting, but has considerable upside given his physical gifts.”

3. 5-star Kelvin Obot — Utah

School: Fruitland (Idaho)
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 28 NATL.

Scouting Summary: “A hyper-athletic offensive tackle who has one of the highest upsides at the position in the 2026 cycle. One of the top prospects from the state of Idaho in recent memory. Measured at over 6-foot-5.5, 300 pounds with arms over 34 inches before his senior season. Lines up at both offensive tackle spots for his high school team. Truly dominates the level of competition. A fantastic functional athlete who is an effortless mover. Shows outstanding reactive quickness in pass protection, quickly resetting his feet. An effortless mover to the second level. Drives undersized defensive linemen off the ball at will. Plays with strong leverage, sinking his hips and firing up through the defensive linemen. Plants the opposition in the dirt at a high rate.

…Also lines up at defensive line, racking up 52 tackles and six sacks. Plays for former first-rounder and All-Pro offensive tackle Jordan Gross at Fruitland High School. Also a top thrower in track and field, winning state titles in the shot put (54-3 feet) and discus (155 feet) as a junior. Unproven in a neutral setting, and plays a lower level of competition in rural Idaho. May need some time to adjust to the speed of the game at the college level, but has the upside to develop into a top college offensive tackle and eventual early-round NFL Draft pick.”

4. 5-star Felix Ojo — Texas Tech

School: Lake Ridge (Texas)
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 29 NATL.

Scouting Summary: “Developmental offensive tackle with the frame, length, and physicality to develop into a top prospect at the position. Measured in at around 6-foot-6, 275 pounds with plus length before his senior season. Has a lean, long frame and should be able to add considerable mass once in a college strength program. Pairs his long arms with outstanding hand strength to stun defenders on contact. Punch is palpable, both on film and in the camp setting. Latches onto defensive linemen and manipulates them to his will. Plays with a nasty edge, working to finish blocks. Flashes dominance as a run blocker. Play strength, length, and solid athleticism point to upside in pass protection. Showed considerable growth in his game from his sophomore to junior seasons.

…Will need to improve his lower body flexibility as he can play high and displays some hip stiffness. The youngest top offensive tackle prospect in the cycle, turning 18 years old in July prior to his freshman season of college football. Rapid rate of improvement and notable strengths give him one of the higher upsides among 2026 offensive tackles.”

5. 4-star Kodi Greene — Washington

School: Mater Dei (Calif.)
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 35 NATL.

Scouting Summary: “Nimble offensive tackle who brings a translatable skill set with size and projectable movement skills. Measured around 6-foot-6, and north of 300 pounds before his senior season. Touts average to solid length for his height. Transferred to SoCal powerhouse Mater Dei for his junior season, primarily lining up at right tackle for the Monarchs. A high-level mover. Fluid and balanced. Works to the second level effortlessly. Dangerous as a puller. Shows good pop in his hands and plays with encouraging power. Has a solid understanding of body positioning, walling off defensive linemen. More advanced as a run blocker, but has the skill set to develop into a reliable pass protector over time. Battle-tested and fared well against top competition as a junior. Can continue to improve his hand placement and overall technique.”

6. 4-star Keenyi Pepe — USC

School: IMG Academy (Fla.)
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 37 NATL.

About: Pepe saw playing time as a freshman on a loaded IMG squad in 2022, and was named to All-American teams both of his first two years on a really deep offensive line. Last fall, he took over as the team’s starting left tackle and helped anchor one of the country’s best lines. In May, he committed to the Trojans over Miami, Oregon, and a host of other programs.

7. 4-star Ekene Ogboko — Georgia

School: South Garner (N.C.)
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 43 NATL.

Scouting Summary: Mauling offensive tackle who plays with a physical edge and shows encouraging movement skills. Measured at 6-foot-6, 310 pounds with arms over 34 inches and big hands before his senior season. Added considerable mass over the final two years of high school. Lines up at left tackle and defensive line on Friday nights. Shows signs of dominance as a run blocker. Locks on to defensive linemen and works to finish with authority. An emphatic block finisher. Increased play strength and overall confidence over his final two seasons of high school football, developing into a bully on contact. Effective working to the second level. Solid movement skills and agility on offense. Also flashes the athleticism on defense, showing impressive closing speed. Solid in pass protection, but will benefit from more reps in passing situations at the college level. Has an upward trajectory as a prospect, given his steady improvement. Could end up being one of the top offensive tackles in the cycle.

8. 4-star Sam Greer — Ohio State

School: Archbishop Hoban (Ohio)
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 57 NATL.

Scouting Summary: “Large human with an intriguing combination of coordination, natural strength, and size at offensive tackle. Measured at 6-foot-6.75, 323 pounds with a 34-inch arm and 10-inch hands at Rivals Five-Star before his senior season. Has a large frame that is already filled out. Lines up at left tackle for his high school team. Shows flashes of dominance as a run blocker. Bends defenders to his will as a drive blocker. Can be a freight train rolling downhill when pulling and working to the second level. Shows heavy hands and gives up little ground once engaged. Plays with a good understanding of body positioning. Competitive and physical in the camp setting, flashing pop in his hands in 1-on-1s, and reactive quickness in his pass set.

…Junior season accounts for most of his varsity experience as he missed much of his sophomore year with injury and was on JV as a freshman. A top high school basketball player with a high level of skill and coordination on the hardwood, receiving mid-major offers. A good, not great athlete. Can continue improving his flexibility as he can play high and has some rigidity in his movements. Considerable improvement, power, coordination, and a ready-made build make him one of the top prospects at the position in the 2026 cycle.”

9. 4-star Vlad Dyakonov – USC

School: Folsom (Folsom, CA)
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 85 NATL.

All-American Bowl Breakdown: “Dyakonov was the top offensive lineman over the course of the week in San Antonio. A lean, athletic offensive tackle at 6-foot-6, 275 pounds, Dyakonov had the most success against the top pass-rushers on hand. The USC signee showed excellent foot quickness, easily getting to his landmarks in his pass sets, while lining up at both tackle spots throughout the week. He was one of the few blockers to win 1-on-1 reps against Julian Walker in practice and was the only offensive lineman to come close to impeding Luke Wafle during the game. While the athleticism is well known, we also came away impressed with Dyakonov’s ability to anchor on contact. The movement skills and core strength point to a high upside for the Folsom (Calif.) High product.” — Charles Power, Rivals Director of Scouting and Rankings

10. 4-star Gabriel Osenda – Tennessee

School: Baylor School (Tenn.)
Rivals Industry Ranking: No. 91

Measureables: “Osenda was the tallest prospect to roll through the check-in at Rivals Five-Star. The Tennessee commit measured in at 6-foot-7.25, 340 pounds. Osenda has a huge frame and plus length as an offensive tackle. The Chattanooga (Tenn.) Baylor School prospect measured in with a 34.75-inch arm, 7-foot wingspan, and 10.125-inch hand. Osenda gives Tennessee one of the bigger-bodied offensive tackles in the 2026 cycle.” — Charles Power, Rivals Director of Scouting and Rankings

Other top committed offensive tackles in the class

11. Malakai Lee – Michigan
12. Brysten Martinez – LSU
13. Grayson McKeogh – Notre Dame
14. Kamari Blair – Tennessee
15. Johnnie Jones Jr. – Missouri

16. Claude Mpouma – Nebraska
17. Jared Doughty – Alabama
18. Ben Congdon – Miami
19. Bryson Cooley – Alabama
20. Bryce Gilmore – Texas Tech

21. Collin Campbell – Michigan State
22. Carson Nielsen – Iowa
23. Tyler Chukuyem – Florida
24. Daniel McMorris – Cal
25. Wilson Zierer – Auburn

Reese McGuire came to the Cubs and produced when they really needed him — right after Miguel Amaya suffered an oblique injury in May. McGuire homered twice in his first game as a Cub and was a suitable backup for Carson Kelly the rest of the year.

The Cubs, as you know, had fallen far behind the Brewers, nine games back by early August. They had crept to within five games of the NL Central lead after sweeping the Angels in Anaheim.

Hopes were high as the Cubs headed up the coast to San Francisco.

Welp. They lost the series opener 5-3 and then took a 3-1 lead in the second inning of the second game of the set when Nico Hoerner smashed a three-run homer.

It was all downhill after that on that evening in Oracle Park. Colin Rea didn’t make it out of the fifth inning, allowing eight hits and seven runs, one of his worst starts of the year. Taylor Rogers, acquired at the deadline and a former Giant, allowed a three-run homer to Rafael Devers, his second of the game. That gave the Giants a 10-3 lead and they scored another off Rogers in the seventh on a solo homer by Matt Chapman.

It was 11-3 heading to the bottom of the eighth when Craig Counsell summoned McGuire to pitch, to save the pen for an afternoon game the next day.

McGuire got Andrew Knizner for the first out but then Heliot Ramos came to bat [VIDEO].

That might have been one of the most ridiculous pitches in Cubs history.

Friends, I don’t know exactly what that pitch was but I think I am pretty safe when I say that was definitely not a “curveball.”

The Cubs lost the game 12-3.

McGuire, as you know, recently signed a minor-league deal with the Brewers and he seems likely to break camp as the backup to William Contreras.

That concludes this series on Cubs position players pitching in the divisional play era. Tomorrow I’ll have some thoughts about position players pitching in general.

Los Angeles Dodgers two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani made an appearance in Arizona on Wednesday, nine days before pitchers and catchers report to Camelback Ranch for spring training.

While there, Ohtani played catch and did a photo shoot. Emmet Sheehan and Anthony Banda also reported early.

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Pitchers and catchers are set to arrive at Camelback Ranch Feb. 13, and the rest of the team will report Feb. 17 for the first full-squad workout of the season. Their opening game of spring training comes against the Los Angeles Angels later that week on Feb. 21.

What Will The Dodgers Do During Spring Training?

The Dodgers will play 33 games during spring training, most of which will come against MLB teams. They’ll also square off against Team Mexico ahead of the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

During these games and practices, the Dodgers will decide who to bring add onto the few roster spots they have heading into the 2026 season.

Is the Dodgers’ 2026 Roster Set?

The Dodgers have plenty to figure out before the end of the preseason, especially in their pitching staff.

After they signed Kyle Tucker, the Dodgers locked down just about all of their starters for position players outside of second base.

Tommy Edman is likely the starter for the Dodgers at second base, as they DFA’d infield depth piece Andy Ibañez on Tuesday just a few weeks after signing him. Edman is on the mend following surgery he received on his ankle at the beginning of the offseason, though, so someone else could stand in his place come the beginning of the season as well.

Their pitching staff is a different story, as the bullpen is all but solidified. Edwin Diaz has a spot in the bullpen for sure, but beyond him and Tanner Scott — who’s still under contract for three years — things are wide open.

Outside of those two, Will Klein, Justin Wrobleski, Brusdar Graterol, Anthony Banda, Blake Treinen, Jack Dreyer, Edgardo Henriquez, Ben Casparius and Alex Vesia are all currently on the Dodgers’ 40-man roster and will be fighting for a spot on the Opening Day roster.

The Dodgers’ starters aren’t set in stone just yet, but there’s a pretty good chance Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, Roki Sasaki and Emmet Sheehan will occupy the rotation spot.

We all know something is up with Cole Palmer, it’s just hard to put your finger on it.

He’s been injured, which has in turn stopped him reaching peak sharpness, which has in turn stopped him finding his form. That is then making him frustrated, which is leading to bad decisions on the pitch. It’s a bad spiral.

Cole Palmer’s worrying stats stack up

Cole Palmer looks frustrated after another poor game. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

At the BBC, Matt Jones took a look at the stats and found some worrying things. For one, the goal record is even worse than we realised. Palmer scored no open play goals in the last 16 games of last season, and has just one in his 11 this season.

So that’s one open play goal in 27. That’s pretty nasty stuff. You can see why when he’s not on the pitch. He’s such a great finisher, but he’s just not able to find the space to get a shot away. The confidence that had him taking shots from all over the place when he was in form has faded away. Now he can’t even get separation from his marker.

Incredibly, we have just a 25% win percentage when Palmer has played this season in all competitions. No wonder he looks so frustrated. We’ve also scored fewer goals and conceded more when he’s on the pitch. There is some sample bias there because of the games he’s used in, but not enough to explain the whole problem.

In other news…

The London is Blue podcast saluted Estevao for his efforts yesterday, coming on as a sub despite a very taxing weekend. The youngster never stops impressing us with his maturity.

Chelsea signed up yet another young talent today, securing Mathis Eboue on a pro deal on his 17th birthday.

Feb. 4 (UPI) -- The Los Angeles Kings agreed to a trade for New York Rangers All-Star forward Artemi Panarin.

Sources told ESPN, The Athletic and the New York Post on Wednesday that the Kings agreed to send the Rangers prospect Liam Greentree and a conditional third-round draft pick in the swap.

Panarin, who was set to become a free agent, also signed a two-year, $22 million contract extension with the Kings. The Rangers will retain 50% if his 2025-26 salary.

The 34-year-old forward totaled 19 goals and 38 assists through his first 52 appearances this season. Panarin logged 321 goals and 606 assists through the first 11 years of his NHL tenure.

He registered a career-high 120 points, with 49 goals and 71 assists, over 82 appearances in 2023-24. Panarin was the Rangers' leading scorer in five of the last six seasons.

Greentree, 20, was the No. 26 overall pick by the Kings in the 2024 NHL Draft.

The Panarin trade came just before the NHL's Olympic roster freeze, which was put into effect at 3 p.m. EST Wednesday and ends Feb. 22.

The Kings (23-17-14) are 9th in the Western Conference standings. They will host the 8th-place Seattle Kraken (26-20-9) at 10 p.m. Wednesday in Los Angeles.

The Rangers (22-28-6), who are on a three-game losing streak, rank last in the Eastern Conference standings. They will host the second-place Carolina Hurricanes (35-15-6) at 7 p.m. Thursday in New York.

Coby White has been one of the Chicago Bulls’ lone bright spots during an otherwise forgettable stretch of basketball in the 2020s. Chicago chose White with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2019 draft, and watched him improve year-over-year to become arguably the team’s best player. Now the Bulls have traded White before he becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer.

The Charlotte Hornets have been the hottest team in the NBA over the last two months, and now they’re acquiring White and Mike Conley Jr. from the Bulls for Collin Sexton, Ousmane Dieng, and three second-round picks. The deal was first reported by Shams Charania.

Here are the details on the second-round picks Chicago is getting from Charlotte.

The Hornets are loading up for a playoff run, while the Bulls are tearing it down in their effort to retool a mediocre roster. Let’s grade this trade for both sides.

Hornets grade for Coby White trade

The Hornets have one of the NBA’s best young cores in place with LaMelo Ball, Kon Knueppel, and Brandon Miller leading the way. White offers an immediate upgrade from Sexton in the backcourt with his ability to play on- or off-the-ball with high-volume three-point shooting ability.

White has always been a streaky shooter, yet he winds up with a similar three-point percentage every year. White has made either 37 percent or 38 percent of his threes each of the last four seasons. He’s been a little slowed this season while battling a calf strain, and he’s only made 34.6 percent of his threes at the time of the trade.

White is not a very good defender. He currently ranks in the 14th percentile of defensive EPM. He’s an offense-first player ranking in the 84th percentile of offensive EPM, but this hasn’t been his best season. The Hornets have already bought low on White at the trade deadline, and it’s possible they can resign him to another bargain contract. He’s only 26 years old so he could have multiple suitors, but the North Carolina native could be motivated to stay in his home state with a rising young team.

I like the idea of White as a super sixth man in Charlotte who can play some point guard if Ball endures more injury troubles. This is a small price to pay for a good player.

Grade: A

Bulls grade for Coby White trade

The Bulls decided they weren’t going to resign White this summer, so they traded him for future assets while they still could. That’s fine, but Chicago could have gotten way more for him at last year’s deadline if they knew what they were doing.

It sure feels like the Bulls are fully rebuilding after trading White, Nikola Vucevic, and Kevin Huerter ahead of the trade deadline. Anfernee Simons will be a good replacement for White, but he needs a new contract. Jaden Ivey will step into a big role, but he hasn’t looked like the same player coming off a horrific leg injury, and he’ll also be a restricted free agent this summer. Chicago has one healthy big man on the roster in Jalen Smith, and he’s more of a power forward than a center as the league opts for more two-big lineups. The Bulls could be very bad the rest of this season.

Trying to get more ping-pong balls rather than going for another doomed play-in tournament run is a good move for Chicago’s front office, but it feels like too little, too late. The Bulls might be able to get to No. 9 or No. 10 in the reverse standings, but they’ll still need a lot of lottery luck to move up. Chicago deserves it: the Bulls have refused to lose on purpose for the last five years unlike the other star-less teams, and they have one of the biggest fanbases in the league that is starving for a superstar. Landing Cameron Boozer or Darryn Peterson would change everything for the Bulls, and now there’s a greater chance it happens even if it still requires a ton of luck.

The Bulls should have traded White a year ago to maximize his value. By holding onto him until the very last second, they got basically nothing in return for him.

Grade: C+

For many of the same reasons, it is a day mostly reviled in NBA locker rooms from Sacramento to San Antonio and beyond. “It's a stressful time not only for you, but players that you might know, teammates that you might know,” Spurs guard Devin Vassell said. “I can't wait for this trade deadline to be over, honestly.”

San Antonio Express-News

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Devin Vassell: I can't wait for the trade deadline to be over

Sam Amick: I know I keep going back to the Giannis (Antetokounmpo) stuff, but there’s an idea that if, let’s say, Giannis goes—somebody even mentioned Cleveland. I don’t think that’s going to happen. They’re dedicated to Evan Mobley. But LeBron (James) could join a team that’s on the come-up.” “Cleveland and Golden State are the two places where people talk about him landing. But the Giannis thing was: if the Warriors landed him, then maybe he goes that way.” “But I genuinely—and I’ve talked to his folks a lot lately—he doesn’t know. He’s just going through this thing.” “As a side note, it’s so interesting: people who care about him a lot, and who also don’t know what’s next…” “They’re literally kind of chasing him around the country to watch all of his biggest games with the mentality of, ‘We just don’t know.’” “So if he keeps going, that’s great. But the Garden, for example—there were folks who went out there to make sure they saw that thing in person, with kind of that thought in mind.”

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: I know I keep going back to the Giannis …

Yossi Gozlan: The Brooklyn Nets now have a whopping 21 second-round picks through 2032 by taking on Ochai Agbaji. They can absorb him with their $15.3 million in cap space, leaving them with $8.9 million. The Nets will need to create a roster spot for this trade.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: The Brooklyn Nets now have a whopping 21 second-round …

Asked how he could both respect Dellavedova and criticize his game so harshly, Draymond Green doubled down. "I have so much respect for Matthew Delly," Green said. "To come from Australia, go to a small college at Saint Mary’s, have zero athleticism … and yet the man was guarding the hell out of Steph Curry. That is sure will, determination, grit -- a knowledge of the game that people don’t give him credit for. You can’t be that unathletic but that effective if you don’t have an extremely high basketball IQ."

NBC Sports Bay Area

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "I have so much respect for Matthew Delly," Green …

Green explained that Dellavedova’s toughness -- particularly during the Cavaliers-Warriors Finals matchups -- earned admiration in Golden State’s locker room, even if he never viewed him as an elite talent. "I have a ton of respect for Delly because he’s so hard-nosed," Green explained. "But both things can be true. I can have a ton of respect for him -- and he stinks. That’s just what it is."

NBC Sports Bay Area

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "I have a ton of respect for Delly because he’s so …

College football programs are certainly buying the nation’s top recruits’ signatures, but relationships and proof of concept still matter on the trail.

To even be in position to close a deal financially, you have to have a product these blue-chip prospects are buying into. So while there was certainly a heavy financial investment in landing the top 2026 recruits in the country, there oftentimes was still a strong relationship behind the deal that helped allow things to fall into place.

With that, Rivals highlights the top on-field college football recruiters in the country in the 2026 class.

Mike Mickens – Notre Dame

For a second cycle in a row, the former Irish defensive back coach receives first mention after securing signatures from nearly all of his top targets before ultimately taking a job with the Baltimore Ravens to be their secondary coach.

Notre Dame’s No. 2 ranked recruiting class is highlighted by two Rivals300 five-stars in cornerback Khary Adams and safety Joey O’Brien and another Top50 recruit in cornerback Ayden Pouncey.

Mickens was also the lead recruiter for four-star cornerback Chaz Smith and coveted safety Nick Reddish. 

Mickens did a fantastic job of quickly identifying the nation’s best, and building a strong rapport with them. They trusted their development with him.

New Notre Dame defensive backs coach Aaron Henry, who did a terrific job at Illinois, has big shoes to fill in South Bend.

Eric Henderson – USC

In the summer, the Trojans won a back-and-forth recruiting battle for Rivals No. 1 ranked overall prospect Luke Wafle, ultimately outbidding Ohio State to land the Hun School (NJ) five-star. But they don’t get a chance to even make a pitch without Henderson’s pedigree as a defensive line coach. Henderson helped the Rams win a Super Bowl, he mentored Aaron Donald, brought Donald out to Trojan practices, and with that, earned Wafle’s trust.

Henderson also quickly pushed for Rivals300 five-star Jaimeon Winfield and locked him up early. Winfield never wavered on his pledge to the Trojans.

Beyond those two elite talents, Henderson helped USC flip four-star Tomuhini Topui from Oregon and beat the Irish for four-star edge Simote Katoanga and four-star defensive lineman Braeden Jones who also gave a very early commitment and never came close to thinking twice.

Henderson reportedly interviewed for a position with the Dallas Cowboys. Keeping him at USC would be as big as singing this top-ranked class.

Alex Mirabal – Miami

The Rivals Industry’s No. 1 prospect in five-star offensive tackle Jackson Cantwell chose Miami over Georgia, Ohio State and Oregon. Obviously the Hurricanes put a massive NIL opportunity on the table for the Nixa (Mo.) High five-star.

But Miami also recruited Cantwell the old-fashioned way. No program was in contact more. Obviously head coach Mario Cristobal is heavily involved but Mirabal was in daily communication. And more than anything, sources at other schools involved even said that Cantwell always viewed Mirabal as the best offensive line coach in the country. The Hurricanes advancing to the National Title game only validated everything Cantwell thought when he chose Miami over the other powerhouse programs on his list.

Word around Miami is that they landed another future pro in four-star offensive tackle Joel Ervin. Mirabal, Cristobal and company locked the Fort Myers (Fla.) product up early and they also signed four-star Ben Congdon and beat Clemson for legacy recruit Canon Pickett. In-state offensive lineman JJ Sparks from The Bolles School rounds out a group Mirabal is very excited about.

Chris Hampton – Oregon

The Ducks No. 3 ranked class was especially strong on the back end of the defense with Hampton integral in a lot of those commitments. 

Securing signatures from Davon Benjamin (beating USC), Devin Jackson (holding off Nebraska) and Jett Washington (over Alabama) were three that Dan Lanning and Hampton had at the top of the board. Oregon also landed four-star Xavier Lherisse early in the cycle and picked up four-star Azel Banag in December. This is one of the top secondary classes in the land.

Hampton was promoted to defensive coordinator following the departure of Tosh Lupoi to Cal. Oregon already team-recruited on the trail so Hampton was active with a lot of these 2026 targets on the defensive side of the ball.

Brian Hartline – Ohio State

Death, taxes and Hartline being among the top recruiters in the country.

Now the head coach at USF, Hartline spearheaded the Buckeyes efforts to secure an elite wide receiver haul, and he helped Ryan Day keep it together at the end.

OSU beat Ole Miss for newly-minted Rivals300 five-star Jerquaden Guilford and then helped assist in holding off LSU at the end. Obviously there was the saga with five-star Chris Henry Jr. but in the end he honored his long-standing pledge to the Buckeyes over Oregon and USC with Texas and LSU throwing out last-minute offers.

In-state wideout Jaeden Ricketts took a late visit to West Virginia but stuck with Ohio State. He also flipped Brock Boyd from TCU.

Trooper Taylor – Texas A&M

The Aggies ace on the trail is Taylor who was in the middle of several big wins that helped bring in the No. 7 class in the land.

Texas A&M beat Texas and held off LSU for the No. 3 running back in the country. They also beat Florida among others at the buzzer to sign four-star Carsyn Baker.

Peach State four-star Aaron Gregory was Texas A&M’s top wide receiver target and Taylor led the charge and made sure he never flipped. 

Taylor had his hands on in-state recruits in four-star linebacker DaQuives Beck, four-star tight end Kaeden Johnson and offensive linemen Zaden Krempin and Avery Morcho, who the staff absolutely loves.

Taylor has always been widely regarded as one of the top recruiters in the country and he lived up to the status in the 2026 cycle.

Todd Hartley – Georgia

Similar to Hartline, the Bulldogs tight ends coach typically lands who he covets most on the trail.

While USC was able to get it done with Mark Bowman, Hartley land the other three he coveted at the position headlined by in-state five-star and the No. 2 player in the country at the position in Kaiden Prothro.

Saline (Mich.) High standout and the nation’s No. 8 tight end Lincoln Keyes quickly became a guy Hartley and Georgia pushed for after having him in camp. 

No program did a better job recruiting the No. 11 tight end in the class in Mansfield (Ohio) Lexington’s Brayden Fogle than Hartley and Georgia.

Three high upside, very talented tight ends are headed to Athens to maintain the standard of play we’ve grown accustomed to seeing between The Hedges. 

Tony Alford – Michigan

Michigan landed perhaps the best player in the country regardless of position in five-star running back Savion Hiter, beating Tennessee, Ohio State and Georgia for the Mineral (Va.) Louisa County standout. Alford was on Hiter very early when he was on the Buckeyes staff and that carried over to the last two years in Ann Arbor. Relationship, comfort-level, style of play, academics mattered very much to Hiter and his family and Alford’s efforts made them feel at home with Michigan.

Hiter was one of two backs Alford signed with Jonathan Brown out of Ohio also putting pen to paper as part of the class.

New Michigan coach Kyle Whittingham retained Alford from the previous staff and the Maize and Blue will see the fruits of that in the 2027 cycle and beyond.

Al Washington – Notre Dame

Another the Irish lost to the NFL, Washington helped Notre Dame recruit its best defensive line haul in recent memory before taking a position with the Miami Dolphins.

The jewel of the Notre Dame class is five-star edge Rodney Dunham who picked ND over Tennessee and South Carolina. Fellow edge Ebenezer Ewetade went with the Irish over Georgia. One of Notre Dame’s top targets was defensive tackle Tiki Hola who also had a keen eye on USC. One of the last to commit in the cycle was four-star Elijah Golden who chose to play in South Bend over Alabama.

Frank Wilson – LSU

There are built-in advantages at LSU when it comes to recruiting elite in-state talent, but you still need someone to get these to the finish line. Wilson was very impactful for the Tigers in the 2026 class in helping secure the best defensive line haul in America.

Five-star Lamar Brown committed to LSU during the summer despite Texas A&M making it look very enticing in College Station. The Tigers held off Texas for Richard Anderson. The relationship with Wilson was one of the biggest reason Deuce Geralds chose LSU over Ole Miss and Georgia Tech.

Every player LSU signed from the state had a rapport with Wilson. Wilson’s now in Oxford and aims to help the Rebels keep their momentum going in 2027.

Ishika Samant via Getty Images

After WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson dominated Teofimo Lopez to capture the WBO super lightweight crown this past Saturday at Madison Square Garden, he was left with a difficult choice: Go back down to lightweight or continue to campaign at super lightweight?

Now, it seems the WBC has made that decision for him.

"In light of Champion Stevenson now being the reigning WBO Super Lightweight World Champion and consistent with the WBC Rules & Regulations, the WBC has declared vacant its Lightweight World title," the sanctioning body said Wednesday in a statement.

"The WBC will provide further information regarding the process to crown a new Lightweight World Champion in the near future."

With the announcement, Stevenson is stripped of the WBC lightweight world title he won with a close unanimous decision over Edwin De Los Santos in November 2023. Stevenson's fight with De Los Santos was considered one of the worst of the year.

The 28-year-old made a pair of underwhelming title defenses against Artem Harutyunyan and Josh Padley before cementing his place as the No. 1 lightweight in the world with a convincing unanimous decision win over William Zepeda this past July. 

Stevenson produced the most exciting performance of his career against Zepeda, holding his feet and trading with Zepeda at times. Not only was it compelling television, but it also showcased the different facets of Stevenson's game. That newfound confidence was carried over into Stevenson's fight with Lopez, where again he fought with limited movement.

WBC's current interim champion is Jadier Herrera, although because the WBC is inconsistent with its decisions in such matters, it remains unknown whether he'll be upgraded to full champion. Zepeda remains the No. 1-ranked contender.

The world of football covers more than just what we see on the field, as the game of fantasy football has shown us. What started as a general game with what was dubbed standard scoring has evolved into something with variables such as daily sports, Guillotine leagues, and survivor pools.

However, today we will discuss one of the most popular angles: Dynasty. Specifically, we will be looking at dynasty rookies, as that type of league allows players to act like general managers, with their critiques often coming from making their own roster decisions 365 days a year.

In this piece, we will continue our series in which we look at dynasty rookies and where they are ranked after the recent weeks of the All-Star circuit. The next position group we will be looking at is the running backs who are very much a mixed bag in terms of talent top to bottom.

As a result, we will be mentioning the top five running backs as it relates to their dynasty potential right now, as we get closer to the scouting combine.

5) Nick Singleton, Penn State

Best team fits: Jacksonville Jaguars, San Francisco 49ers, and Dallas Cowboys

The Penn State backfield boasted one of the best pairings of talent at the running back position in recent years. Leading the charge in terms of hype and attention was always former 5-star recruit Nick Singleton. He has been in the rotation since he was a Freshman and while he never hit his ceiling in State College, the skillset to do so remains in place. He was having a strong Senior Bowl week while showing his vision and explosiveness before breaking his foot, and things ended prematurely. He won't likely see a rise in the rankings as his athletic traits won't get a showcase at the combine, but he can make an impact as a rookie due to them.

4) Kaytron Allen, Penn State

Best team fits: New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers, and Baltimore Ravens

We just highlighted one half of the Penn State backfield; now, let's talk about my personal favorite in the pairing. Allen is a physical runner who is quietly a very good athlete as well. He will pass block as well, find space as a receiver to help his quarterback, and can be creative in space as a runner as well. He won't get the same hype as Singleton, but he deserves your attention as he could be an RB1 as a rookie in the right spot.

3) Jonah Coleman, Washington

Best team fits: Tennessee Titans, Dallas Cowboys, and New Orleans Saints

Speaking of physical athletes, Jonah Coleman fits that billing as well, with a bit more punch and explosiveness in his games. Coleman has shown himself to be a workhorse both on and off the field for the Huskies during his time with the team. He has good vision to find running lanes, is patient enough to follow blocks, and is also an underrated receiver out of the backfield. Coleman will be drafted to compete for a starting job, and as we near the combine, he has a chance to improve his stock even more to cement himself as a second-round selection.

2) Jadarian Price, Notre Dame

Best team fits: Carolina Panthers, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Tennessee Titans

The way the NFL has constructed kickoffs to take place has allowed for new players to come in and make an impact in a returner role. Jadarian Price has a chance to do that, as well as become a team's top running back upon being drafted. Price in most years could be in competition to be the top running back in the class, with his dual-threat ability and kick return prowess. However, for now, some team will have to settle for getting him in round two of the draft and installing him as a top running back in fantasy in the process.

1) Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame

Best team fits: Arizona Cardinals, Kansas City Chiefs, and Minnesota Vikings

The complete package at the running back position is Jeremiyah Love. He can do it all out of the backfield due to his vision and contact balance, leading the way as he emerges as a homerun threat for defenses. The aforementioned contact balance is what really pops off on film, as it is consistently there anytime he is meeting someone in space or evading them. Not to be forgotten from his physical style, he is also a decent pass protector. He will be an RB1 as he could be a top ten pick, or at the very least a top pick in the first half of the first round.

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: 2026 Dynasty RB rankings following the Senior Bowl

High-profile weddings, like the upcoming Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce nuptials, often come with camera flashes, curious onlookers and a level of scrutiny most couples never experience.

It's something San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey understands firsthand and says requires intention, planning and keeping the "right people" around you.

During a backstage conversation at the Intuit for Education Super Bowl Financial Literacy Forum Feb. 3, the football star opened up about how he and former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo kept their own high-profile ceremony personal in 2024.

The couple married in Watch Hill, Rhode Island, in a chapel ceremony followed by a private reception at the Ocean House, a venue that shut down entirely for their guests. Workers used umbrellas to shield Culpo from view, and a draped tent covered the lawn to ensure the couple had the privacy they wanted.

Olivia Culpo, Christian McCaffrey marry: All the wedding details including her dress.

"I have the best wife and she did a great job of doing that," McCaffrey said when asked how they maintained privacy on their big day. "I never have a hard time having fun and keeping it to myself or keeping it to us, but it can get so stressful. And I think I say I have the best wife because there's nobody that plans better than her."

For the father and husband, privacy was built through intention.

"Having the preparation done early and everything exactly how we wanted it to be," he said. "I just feel really lucky because a lot of that has to do with the company you keep and the people that are there."

Don't miss any Taylor Swift news; sign up for the free, weekly newsletter This Swift Beat.

Follow Taylor Swift reporter Bryan West on Instagram, TikTok and X as @BryanWestTV.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: How Christian McCaffrey, Olivia Culpo kept high-profile wedding private

Is Coen Carr a top-10 small forward in college basketball? The answer to that question is yes, according to the Erving Award voters. On Wednesday, it was announced on social media that Carr has been recognized on the Midseason Top-10 list for the Erving Award.

The Erving Award is given each year to the top small forward in college basketball. Carr was on the initial watchlist heading into the season, and has now made the more exclusive midseason top-10 list.

Coen Carr is averaging 11.4 points per game this year while adding 5.3 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 1.0 blocks per game for the Spartans. His shooting numbers are down this year, but overall production is up, and he is quickly becoming one of the best defenders in the Big Ten.

Coen has been recognized on the Midseason Top-10 list for the Erving Award 🟢 ⚪ pic.twitter.com/ga7zaYpiRF

— Michigan State Men's Basketball (@MSU_Basketball) February 4, 2026

Michigan State fans can cast their votes for Carr and help him make the top-5 for the award at https://www.hoophallawards.com/.

Contact/Follow us @The SpartansWire on X, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan state news, notes, and opinion. You can also follow Andrew Brewster on Twitter @IAmBrewster.

This article originally appeared on Spartans Wire: Coen Carr named to Midseason Top-10 list for the Erving Award

It sounds like Jon Jones won’t be hitting the wrestling mats for a match against Daniel Cormier in RAF.

For months, a potential showdown between the longtime rivals has been talked about with Cormier promising he would blank the former two-division UFC champion if Jones ever crossed over into his world where he was a two-time Olympian. As it turns out, Jones is dealing with injuries from his fight career that will plague him for years to come, which is why he’s not jumping at the opportunity to grapple with his longtime rival.

“I have severe arthritis and most people don’t know that,” Jones said in a video posted to social media. “My left hip is covered in arthritis. I actually already qualify for a hip replacement. My last training camp, I went to bed in so much pain.”

Jones’ most recent appearance came in 2024 when he finished Stipe Miocic to successful defend the UFC heavyweight title. He eventually relinquished that belt when he decided to retire after losing interest in unifying titles with interim champ Tom Aspinall.

Jones quickly reversed course and announced he planned to fight again — with hopes that he would end up competing on the UFC White House card in June. UFC CEO Dana White has repeatedly stated he doesn’t want to put Jones on that card over concerns that he might not show up and the magnitude of that event is too important to risk it.

As of now, the UFC hasn’t announced any matchups for the White House so Jones is still in play. But when it comes to wrestling, Jones says he has more important things to worry about in his life than building on his grudge against Cormier.

“I have a three-year-old baby boy,” Jones said. “I want to use what I’ve got left in my hips to play with his ass.”

In a separate interview with TMZ, Jones revealed that he didn’t know that conversation held at a recent Dirty Boxing event was being recorded but he didn’t shy away from admitting that the injuries he suffered during his career were definitely real.

Tha said, Jones doubled down on his desire to compete at least one more time before calling it a career with hopes that he could land a coveted spot on the UFC White House card in June.

“The UFC knows the extent of my arthritis,” Jones said. “They also know that if I were to put it all on the line one last time and endure that level of pain, the reward would have to be something special and something more than a fat payday. For me, that was and is still the White House.

“Whether that fight happens or not, my career has been one for the ages and nothing short of legendary. I left a big part of myself in that Octagon, and I’m grateful for every bit of it. And don’t get it twisted, I’ll still kick 99 percent of your asses out there. Still putting up big numbers under the squat rack. Still training. Still outworking most of you … just maybe after a proper warm-up and a good stretch.”

If you've gone so far as to throw on your imaginary prognosticator or general manager caps, you're probably the owner of a list of ideal Philadelphia Eagles coaching candidates who make sense. Some may have been interviewed. Some may not have been given the opportunity. Let's see if your list matches ours. Did you think of Greg Olson?

If you're a little confused, there are two. Their last names carry different spellings. One (Greg Olsen) is a former NFL tight end who now works for FOX as a color commentator.

The other (Greg Olson) is a football coach. He has been pacing NFL sidelines since 2003. He began his coaching journey earlier than that (1987). He has been mentioned as a possible addition to Nick Sirianni's staff.

Greg Olson as the new QBs coach for the #Eagles makes a ton of sense. https://t.co/PhHVbFUHj8

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 4, 2026

There has been no word on what Scot Loeffler's status is with the team. He served as the Eagles' quarterbacks coach last season, and Jalen Hurts regressed. Olson, most recently, served as the Las Vegas Raiders' quarterbacks coach and interim offensive coordinator during the 2025 NFL season.

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Greg Olson is drawing interest from the Eagles for QB coach position

Why has Guardiola been warned over his Gaza comments?

Guardiola warned after Gaza comments made at Barcelona charity event

Pep Guardiola has been advised to choose his words carefully after speaking about the suffering of civilians in Gaza at event in Barcelona.

Warning issued after public remarks

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has been urged to be more careful with his language following public comments he made about Israel’s military operations in Gaza.

The warning came from the Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester and Region which expressed concerns that Guardiola’s remarks could contribute to rising tensions and potentially fuel antisemitic acts.

Guardiola spoke last week during charity event in Barcelona, he repeated his support for Palestinian children and said that the suffering of innocent people in conflict zones “hurts” him.

Jewish Council calls for focus on Football

In official statement shared on the social media platform X, the Jewish Representative Council said it has often encouraged public figures to be cautious when speaking about sensitive international issues.

The group advised Guardiola to focus on football despite acknowledging that his intentions may be humanitarian.

The council stated that Guardiola’s repeated public involvement in Middle East-related discussions had caused concern within the local Jewish community.

Criticism over lack of local solidarity

The council also criticised Guardiola for what it described as failure to show solidarity with Manchester’s Jewish community following attack near Heaton Park Synagogue in October.

According to the statement, members of the community felt disappointed that Guardiola had not used his platform to address antisemitic violence closer to home.

The council added that Jewish communities in both Manchester & Barcelona have faced threats in recent months and urged the City manager to consider the impact of his words.

Guardiola Maintains Humanitarian Position

Guardiola has previously stated that he feels compelled to speak when he sees innocent people suffering, not only in the Middle East but in conflicts worldwide.

The Philadelphia 76ers were motivated to get under the luxury tax barrier, and decided to act on that motivation by trading away Jared McCain, their prized rookie from last season, to the defending champions from Oklahoma City. 

McCain was acquired for the price of a 2026 first-round selection via Houston, and three second-round selections. 

It's a deal in which both teams get what they want, so let's get into some grades immediately. 

Oklahoma City: A+

The name of the game in Oklahoma City is championships. Plural. McCain, a strong shooter, will aid them in their floor spacing, an element they've occasionally struggled with.

Relinquishing four picks for McCain may seem expensive, but given that he helps solve a major need and gets them closer to another title, it's a small price to pay. 

Plus, McCain had a lot of success as a rookie last year, averaging over 15 points and finding himself in the Rookie of the Year conversation before he got injured. 

Philadelphia: B-

I'm giving the Sixers a solid grade because they achieved what they hoped to achieve in getting under the tax, but do note it's a pity grade. 

Trading away young, cheap pieces, when you have that much money tied up in Joel Embiid and Paul George is just not a position they want to be in, so this is all about the finances, which is both boring and discouraging. 

So, sure, Philly, congrats on avoiding the tax bill, I guess. 

ISLAMABAD (AP) — Pakistan's decision to boycott its match against India at cricket's T20 World Cup was a way of showing solidarity with Bangladesh after it was ousted from the tournament, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Wednesday.

Bangladesh was replaced by Scotland after refusing to play in India, which is co-hosting the tournament with Sri Lanka. Pakistan's government then said it would allow its national team to take part but that it would have to boycott its group game against archrival India.

The government initially did not give a reason for its decision, but Sharik said during a meeting with his cabinet members that it was because of Bangladesh's exclusion.

“We have taken a very clear stand on the T20 World Cup that we won’t play the match against India because there should be no politics on the sports field,” Sharif. “We have taken a very considered stance, and we should completely stand by Bangladesh, and I think this is a very appropriate decision.”

Pakistan had been set to play India on Feb. 15 in Sri Lanka.

The ICC had reacted strongly to the Pakistan government’s announcement of a boycott and warned the Pakistan Cricket Board of the consequences.

“The PCB will consider the significant and long-term implications for cricket in its own country as this is likely to impact the global cricket ecosystem, which it is itself a member and beneficiary of,” the ICC said.

The ICC is set to lose millions of dollars from broadcasters and sponsors if Pakistan boycotts its Group A game against India.

PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi had criticized the ICC for its “double standards” when Bangladesh was removed and replaced by Scotland last month. The Bangladesh government didn’t give its cricket board permission to play matches in India due to security concerns, but the ICC said it was not possible to shift its games so close to the tournament.

___

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

Derrick Henry sends clear message to A.J. Brown amid trade rumors originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

One of the biggest potential names on the trade market this NFL offseason is Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown.

Frustration over a lack of targets during Philadelphia’s struggles in the passing game last season has fueled speculation about whether Brown might push for a move this offseason — even though he’s under contract with the Eagles through 2029.

If Brown does end up being dealt, one team that continues to emerge as a potential suitor is the Baltimore Ravens. Those rumors were further fueled on Wednesday when Brown’s former teammate — Ravens running back Derrick Henry — sent a message to Brown, sparking talk of a possible reunion in Baltimore after the two spent three seasons together with the Tennessee Titans from 2019 to 2021.

“We’d gladly love to have him,” Henry said via Up & Adams Show With Kay Adams. “A.J.’s a dog. I played with A.J. in Tennessee, and [Lamar Jackson] loves playing with guys who have that dog mentality.

“Please, A.J., come to Baltimore. Let’s go get this ring. You got one in Philly — y’all did that. Now come to Baltimore.”

MORE:Ravens predicted to lose $17 million star to AFC rivals

Baltimore could use some additional outside production for star quarterback Lamar Jackson beyond their lone 1,000-yard receiver last season, Zay Flowers.

In seven NFL seasons, Brown has surpassed 1,000 receiving yards six times and recorded at least five touchdowns in every year of his career — numbers that could bring a new dynamic to an already explosive Ravens offense.

More NFL news: 

• Why NFL fans weren't happy with Jason Kelce's commentary during Pro Bowl
• Why Robert Kraft joined Bill Belichick as stunning Hall of Fame snub for 2026
• Bengals get good news amid $50 million contract projection for Trey Hendrickson
• We now know if Josh Allen is rooting for Patriots or Seahawks in Super Bowl

‪Shams Charania: The Los Angeles Clippers, Brooklyn Nets and Toronto Raptors have agreed on a multi-team trade sending Chris Paul to the Raptors and Ochai Agbaji, a 2032 Raptors second-rounder and cash to the Nets, sources tell ESPN.

bsky.app

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Chris Paul traded to Toronto

Shams Charania: The Raptors will not require Chris Paul to report to the team and could still discuss trades involving him over the next day. Toronto is now out of the tax. Brooklyn picks up an asset and cash to cover Agbaji's salary. The Clippers clear a roster spot and save $7 million in tax.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: The Raptors will not require Chris Paul to report to …

There’s no bigger crime than being a Patriots fan, according to Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes.

On Tuesday, he accepted Rochester Police Chief Michael Assad’s challenge ahead of Sunday’s big game.

“The gauntlet is getting thrown down, Chief Barnes,” Chief Assad said. “Whoever wins the Super Bowl has to put on the opposing team’s gear and say that they are the best team in football which is obviously going to be the New England Patriots.”

Chief Barnes responded in his own video, assuring he wouldn’t be the one wearing the rival’s colors.

“Mike, maybe I’ll send you a Seahawks hat so you can finally know what a winner looks like. Case closed.”

The two shared some playful smack talk – poking fun at one another’s teams.

“I hear they’re still talking about the dynasty out east. Well out here in the west, we don’t live in the past, we live in the end zone. You guys are still living off deflated memories,” Chief Barnes said.

“A lot of times birds may get injured and sometimes they have to go to rehabilitation and that’s exactly what’s going to happen to the Seahawks after the Patriots are done with them in the Super Bowl,” Chief Assad said.

Kickoff for the Super Bowl is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. on Sunday.

Cagliari confirm they tried to activate their purchase option for Semih Kilicsoy early, but will buy him from Besiktas for the agreed €12m fee plus add-ons.

The 20-year-old talent was signed on loan at a cost of €1m with an option to buy for a further €12m plus €2m in bonuses and a 20 per cent cut of the future sale. Fee.

The forward has scored four goals in 14 Serie A appearances for the Sardinians, as after a difficult start to life in Italy, he has started to earn regular playing time.

Semih Kilicsoy has impressed at Cagliari

CAGLIARI, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Semih Kilicsoy of Cagliari scores his team’s second goal (2-0) during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Sant’Elia on January 31, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)

“He is doing well and entertaining us with his skills,” said Cagliari director Guido Angelozzi in a press conference today.

“They are already talking about him in Europe, he’s a little phenomenon. We did try to buy him out early for a lower fee, but they didn’t want to do that.

“The intention is to continue with him, hoping to do great things together. We intend to buy him outright at the end of the season.”

FLORENCE, ITALY – JANUARY 24: Semih Kilicsoy of Cagliari Calcio celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Cagliari Calcio at Artemio Franchi on January 24, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

Cagliari had a very active January transfer window, including the deadline day loan with option to buy of striker Zito Luvumbo to Real Mallorca.

They had been on the verge of securing Christian Kouame on loan from Fiorentina, but changed their minds.

Angelozzi confirmed that the sale of defender Sebastiano Luperto was against the wishes of coach Fabio Pisacane, but the offer from Cremonese was too good to turn down.

“We were close to Benjamin Dominguez, the agent said he would certainly arrive, but Bologna had to find his replacement and then decided against it. I was upset, I told (Bologna chief Gigi) Sartori he wronged me.”

Inter Milan coach Cristian Chivu has decided to start Issiaka Kamate and Davide Frattesi against Torino. This evening’s Coppa Italia quarter-final clash kicks off at 21:00 CET at the San Siro.

Inter Milan made light work of second-tier Venezia in the previous round, cruising to a dominant 5-1 victory at San Siro.

Meanwhile, Torino staged a massive upset at the Stadio Olimpico, denying Roma a chance to face Inter in the quarter-finals.

Despite heading into proceedings as favorites, Inter will be without several first-team stars here.

Indeed, Cristian Chivu cannot call upon the likes of Denzel Dumfries, Nicolo Barella, and Hakan Calhanoglu.

Furthermore, there’s a risk of fatigue amid Inter’s congested fixture schedule.

Therefore, the 45-year-old had to change his starting lineup tonight.

Inter Milan vs Torino – Issiaka Kamate Makes Maiden Start in 2025/26

Issiaka Kamate Inter Milan

Teenage midfielder Issiaka Kamate gets his first start for the senior team.

Indeed, the absences of Hakan Calhanoglu and Nicolo Barella have forced Chivu to give the youngster a chance to start in midfield.

In addition to Kamate, another young gun, Matteo Cocchi, starts in the middle of the park.

Furthermore, veteran star Henrikh Mkhitaryan returns to the starting lineup.

Meanwhile, Matteo Darmian seemed on the verge of making his first start of the season.

However, according to FCInterNews, Chivu had to leave him out of the squad to a stomach issue.

Chivu Hands Davide Frattesi First Set of Back-to-Back Starts

MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 05: Davide Frattesi of FC Internazionale controls the ball during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between FC Internazionale Milano and FC Kairat Almaty at Stadio San Siro on November 05, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Davide Frattesi has been on the fringes this season, making a mere two starts in Serie A.

However, with Barella and Calhanoglu injured, the 26-year-old started on Sunday in Cremona.

As such, the former Sassuolo man is ready to start consecutive matches for the first time this term.

Meanwhile, Mkhitaryan and Frattesi complete the midfield quartet, with Piotr Zielinski starting on the bench.

Further changes come on the flank.

In addition to handing Josep Martinez his first start in goal since mid-December, Chivu decided to overhaul other departments.

Furthermore, Federico Dimarco drops to the bench in favor of Andy Diouf, with Carlos Augusto joining Stefan de Vrij and Francesco Acerbi in defense.

Finally, Marcus Thuram and Ange-Yoan Bonny lead the line at the expense of Lautaro Martinez and Francesco Pio Esposito.

Inter Milan vs Torino – Official Starting Lineups: Frattesi & Kamate Start

SANT’ARCANGELO DI ROMAGNA, ITALY – OCTOBER 28: Matteo Cocchi of Italy in action during European Under-17 Championship 2024 qualifying round match between Italy and Northern Ireland at Stadio Valentino Mazzola on October 28, 2023 in Sant’Arcangelo di Romagna, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Bellini/Getty Images)

INTER (3-5-2): 13 J. Martinez; 6 De Vrij, 15 Acerbi, 30 Carlos Augusto; 41 Kamate, 16 Frattesi, Mkhitaryan, 17 Diouf, 43 Cocchi; 9 Thuram, 14 Bonny.Bench: 12 Di Gennaro, 40 Calligaris, 8 Sucic, 10 Lautaro, 11 Luis Henrique, 31 Bisseck, 44 Berenbruch, 54 Bovo, 50 Cinquegrano, 51 Alexiou, 58 Topalovic, 94 Esposito, 95 Bastoni.Coach: Chivu.Suspended: none.Unavailable: Dumfries, Calhanoglu, Barella.

TORINO (3-5-2): 1 Paleari; 35 Marianucci, 23 Coco, 61 Tameze; 16 Pedersen, 14 Anjorin, 4 Prati, 10 Vlasic, 33 Obrador; 17 Kulenovic, 92 Njie.Bench: Substitutes: 81 Israel, 99 Siviero, 6 Ilkhan, 13 Maripan, 20 Lazaro, 25 Nkounkou, 77 Ebosse, 83 Perciun, 91 Zapata.Coach: Baroni.Suspended: none.Unavailable: Gineitis, Ismajli, Simeone, Schuurs, Savva, Aboukhlal, Ilic, Nkounkou.

League Cup: Official lineups for Man City vs Newcastle

The second leg of the League Cup semi-finals takes place this Wednesday evening between Manchester City and Newcastle. The official starting lineups for the match have been announced.

In the first leg, Manchester City secured a 2-0 victory. Tonight, against Newcastle, the Sky Blues just need to finish the job to book their place. However, Pep Guardiola’s men can’t afford to relax. The Magpies have nothing to lose, and they are determined to give it everything they’ve got.

The official lineups for the match:

Man City

Newcastle

Reports claim the forward wants guarantees before returning

Ronaldo crisis deepens at Al Nassr — Portuguese star sets conditions before playing again

Cristiano Ronaldo could miss more matches for Al Nassr as reports link his absence to frustration over the club’s transfer plans.

New details on Ronaldo’s situation

Fresh reports emerged about growing issue between Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr following his recent absence from training and matchday action.

Several outlets claimed that Ronaldo refused to take part in team training and did not feature in Al Nassr’s latest Saudi Pro League match against Al Riyadh as he was unhappy with the club’s current position in the transfer market.

The reports suggest the Portuguese star is concerned about rivals strengthening their squads while Al Nassr have not made similar progress.

Transfer concerns and Benzema rumours

Some sources also claimed Ronaldo attempted to block possible move involving Karim Benzema amid talk of the striker leaving Al Ittihad for Al Hilal.

The rumours reflect Ronaldo’s frustration about continued investment in Al Hilal’s squad while Al Nassr supporters are still waiting for major reinforcements.

Ronaldo’s conditions for returning

Portuguese journalist Bruno Andrade reported that Ronaldo wants clear guarantees from the club and has asked for full independence for Al Nassr’s management in the transfer window, without outside interference.

Andrade added that Ronaldo has since returned to training normally which has also been mentioned in Saudi reports.

However he is still expected to miss the upcoming league match against Al Ittihad on Friday.

According to the same reports, Ronaldo has set several conditions before returning to competitive matches.

If these demands are not met, he may continue training without playing until the end of the season.

Possible departure before contract ends

Ronaldo’s future could also depend on contract developments. Reports claim he could leave Al Nassr before the final year of his deal especially as his release clause is expected to drop to €50 million in the next transfer period.

It has also been suggested that clubs from Major League Soccer & Europe have already made enquiries about his situation.

This page will update live with the latest relevant news, no need to refresh the page!

Join us for all the build-up and action as it happens from the Coppa Italia quarter-final, as Inter host Torino.

It kicks off at the U-Power Stadium in Monza at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

The winners will be decided after 90 minutes or go directly to a penalty shoot-out, without the need for extra time.

Whoever goes through will then play against either Napoli or Como in the semi-final.

It is played on neutral turf because San Siro is being prepared for the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics.

Downs beat Gomora to progress to Ke Yona Cup last-16

Photo: ENK Sports

Mamelodi Sundowns advanced to the Nedbank Cup Round of 16 following a 2-1 victory over Gomora United at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday night.

Prolific frontman Peter Shalulile broke the deadlock in the 41st minute, before Mpho Maoke robbed Malibongwe Khoza off the ball to level matters on the stroke of half-time.

Thapelo Morena, who entered the fray as a half-time substitute headed Sundowns back into the lead after connecting with an inviting ball from Jayden Adams.

Downs will await their fate in the next stage of the competition as they look to clinch a first domestic cup title since the 2021/22 campaign.

Miguel Cardoso's men will now shift their focus to the CAF Champions League, where they are set to face FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo in DR Congo on Sunday.

Inter start Marcus Thuram, Ange-Yoan Bonny and two fresh young talents in the Coppa Italia quarter-final against Torino’s Sandro Kulenovic and Alieu Njie.

It kicks off at the U-Power Stadium in Monza at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.

The winners will be decided after 90 minutes or go directly to a penalty shoot-out, then go on to face either Napoli or Como in the semi-final.

It is played on neutral turf because San Siro is being prepared for the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics.

MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 03: Andy Diouf of FC Internazionale Milano scores his team’s first goal during the Coppa Italia round of 16 match between FC Internazionale and Venezia FC at San Siro Stadium on December 03, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Serie A leaders Inter are on a roll at the moment, but rotate their squad heavily to rest some of the big stars.

Some changes are forced, as Nicolò Barella, Hakan Calhanoglu and Denzel Dumfries are still out injured.

Matteo Darmian was expected to make his first start of the season, but has instead been ruled out at the last minute by a stomach bug.

Andy Diouf and Stefan De Vrij start, while Carlos Augusto shakes off a knock.

There is a full senior debut for left-back Matteo Cocchi, who celebrated his 19^th birthday over the weekend, and 21-year-old Issiaka Kamate.

MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 03: Ange-Yoan Bonny of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s fifth goal during the Coppa Italia round of 16 match between FC Internazionale and Venezia FC at San Siro Stadium on December 03, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Torino eliminated Roma from the Coppa Italia Round of 16, winning a 3-2 thriller at the Stadio Olimpico last month.

Their Serie A form had been dismal, losing four on the bounce including a 6-0 result at Como.

However, they got back on track with Sunday’s 1-0 victory over Lecce.

Coach Marco Baroni has a long list of absentees, including Giovanni Simeone, Ardian Ismajli, Gvidas Gineitis, Ivan Ilic, Zakaria Aboukhlal, Niels Nkounkou, Perr Schuurs and Zanos Savva.

There was also a last-minute problem, as Cesare Casadei is suffering from flu symptoms and didn’t even make the trip.

January signings Luca Marianucci, Rafa Obrador, Sandro Kulenovic and Matteo Prati all step into the starting XI.

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – AUGUST 06: Rafael Obrador #27 of Real Madrid moves the ball against Chelsea during a pre-season friendly match at Bank of America Stadium on August 06, 2024 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)

When these teams last met in the opening Serie A weekend, Inter emerged 5-0 winners, making it a run of seven consecutive victories against this opponent.

Torino haven’t beaten the Nerazzurri since a 1-0 home result in January 2019, managing one draw and 12 losses.

TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 07: Cesare Casadei of Torino celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Torino FC and Udinese Calcio at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on January 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Inter vs. Torino official line-ups

Inter: J Martinez; De Vrij, Acerbi, Carlos Augusto; Kamate, Frattesi, Mkhitaryan, Diouf, Cocchi; Thuram, Bonny

Torino: Paleari; Marianucci, Coco, Tameze; Pedersen, Anjorin, Vlasic, Prati, Obrador; Kulenovic, Njie

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Coppa Italia quarter final Liveblog: Inter vs. Torino

LeBron James will be a free agent this summer, and if he chooses to play a 24th NBA season, sources close to him said Cleveland would be an obvious destination. His salary would not be close to the $52.6 million he’s earning now in Los Angeles, but at age 41 he is aware of the market realities facing him if he extends his career.

New York Times

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Cleveland an option for LeBron James in free agency?

‪Yossi Gozlan‬: Washington Wizards salary cap situation after acquiring Anthony Davis: They take on a ton of money. This deal takes them from $30 million under the tax to just $5.5 million below. They still have 13 first-round picks over the next seven drafts.

bsky.app

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Washington Wizards salary cap situation after …

The Wizards envision a frontcourt of Anthony Davis, Alex Sarr and Bilal Coulibaly as being one of the best defensive frontcourts in the league. I'm told this deal "came out of left field," and one of the reasons the Wizards are said to be ecstatic is the the outgoing first-round picks have relatively little value. The 2026 first-round pick will be Oklahoma City's own first-round pick, meaning it likely will be 30th in the draft order. The 2030 first-round pick came from the original Chris Paul-for-Jordan Poole trade with Golden State a few years ago, and it will convey only if it falls from 21 to 30.

New York Times

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: The Wizards envision a frontcourt of Anthony Davis, …

Michael Porter Jr. has been among the NBA's most efficient scorers this season. Yet, Porter's career-best start with the Brooklyn Nets wasn't enough to earn him his first All-Star selection. The 27-year-old reacted to his All-Star snub on Tuesday. “I thought I had a chance, for sure. But I knew it was out of my control,” he said. “I know the record probably plays a part in it, even though there’s guys that are in there that don’t have the most amazing record. I thought there was a chance. I thought it was a toss-up. It is what it is… That was a tough day, because I thought there was a chance, but today’s a new day. I’m still blessed, I’m still highly favored, and I’m excited to be able to do what I do, whether I got the All-Star or not.”

Clutch Points

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Michael Porter on All-Star snub: I thought I had a chance

The Oklahoma City Thunder will voyage the next couple of weeks without the reigning MVP. They announced on Wednesday that he sustained an abdominal strain in their 128-92 win over the Orlando Magic and will be re-evaluated after the NBA All-Star break.

Pretty huge blow for the immediate future. Gilgeous-Alexander will miss at least five games — at the San Antonio Spurs; against the Houston Rockets; at the Los Angeles Lakers; at the Phoenix Suns; against the Milwaukee Bucks.

This also signals Gilgeous-Alexander will likely miss the 2026 NBA All-Star Game. Let's see how the Thunder survive without the league's best scorer. It could open up the possibility of a losing streak until he eventually returns.

Injuries have hampered OKC all season. Right now, they're without Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams and Ajay Mitchell. Despite all that, the reigning MVP has been a constant until now.

Gilgeous-Alexander has averaged 31.8 points on 55.4% shooting, 6.4 assists and 4.4 rebounds. He's the clear-cut MVP favorite and has put up one of the best scoring seasons the league has ever seen. Given OKC's 40-11 record, it has some cushion for the first seed.

This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander out through All-Star break with abdominal strain

CORNING – Something new is about to come to Corning in a big way. Go-kart racing is taking center stage at the Rolling Hills Equestrian Center this weekend, with $75,000 in prize money up for grabs.

The first-ever Olive City Showdown is set to happen Thursday, Feb. 5, through Saturday, Feb. 7, with about 100 races scheduled each day.

Racing will begin at 11 a.m. each day, with qualifiers and main events starting at 3 p.m. More information is available on the events Facebook page.

Kevin Sharrah, promoter of Chico, said Corning is an ideal location due to its central position on Interstate-5, attracting participants from Oregon to Central California. He added that the Equestrian Center is ideal because of the fact that it’s covered and has lots of room.

“Summers are hard, first, everyone has so many other commitments, and also the heat,” said Sharrah. He added that they have already heard from people across the country, as far as Florida, who plan on attending.

With drivers ranging from ages five to 65-years-old, this is a sport that truly appeals to the young and young at heart who have a real need for speed.

This is just the beginning for Deegan Pochop, 11, of Gerber, who will be racing at the event. He is excited to compete on his home turf.

“They are fun and fast, the division I’m in can get up to 70 MPH,” he said.

Recently, he won $2,000 at a race in Reno, and he said he is glad that the races have come close to home.

Pochop said he wants to move on to Sprint Cars and that racing has taught him a few good lessons on how to succeed.

“Just got to drive good and make wise decisions,” he said. “The secret to winning is not to put yourself in bad positions.”

Sponsors include Corning Ford, Salco, and QRC in Red Bluff, which builds go-carts.

So far, over 300 drivers have signed up for this event, and Sharrah expects more.

“This is a growing sport, and this will only get bigger and better,” Sharrah said.

Corning City Manager Brent Maskar said he was excited to see the races come to Corning and sees many potential benefits to the community.

“The City of Corning and the community welcome new events and are grateful for the opportunity to host the Olive City Showdown this year,” said Maskar. “Events like this provide a positive boost to the local economy and support our local businesses. The community can look forward to an exciting weekend of great racing and entertainment.”

The Oklahoma City Thunder easily defeated the Orlando Magic on Tuesday, but the win came with a potentially significant cost. Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sustained an abdominal injury during the contest, and will be out at least through the All-Star break due to the issue, per ESPN's Shams Charania. 

The severity of the injury is not known at the moment. The team plans to re-evaluate Gilgeous-Alexander after the break, meaning he'll miss — at minimum — five games before a possible return.

It's unclear when Gilgeous-Alexander sustained the injury. The 27-year-old turned in a strong performance during the Thunder's 128-92 win over the Magic on Tuesday, scoring 20 points and dishing out nine assists in nearly 28 minutes on the court. 

This story will be updated.

This year was the 30th annual Jim Owens Memorial Ranch Rodeo, also known as the JP Ranch Rodeo, since JP was his brand. Bill and I attended each rodeo since the 3rd rodeo. Missed the first two since we were busy with our cattle. Jim was shipping calves when he died in a corral in Plumas County. He used to buy our calves when we would ship from rented fall feed in Lassen County. “With his passing, there have been many wonderful stories retold about Jim; his love of life and great sense of humor are mentioned by nearly everyone. Some people say that Jim Owens was who John Wayne wanted to be.”

The Founders Award was started in 2025 when the JP Ranch Rodeo Founders: Kenneth Owens, Judd Miller, Tyler Martinez, Bub Raegan, Terrill Ostrum, and Henry Heitman (In Memoriam) chose Pat Cannon as Top Hand.

2026 Founders Award to Snooks Smith, who had two top horses.

2026 Arena Director was Mert Bradshaw; Announcer Steve Smart; Judges: Don Awbrey, Will Pennebaker, Andrew Stieger; PRCA photographer Crystal Amen; PRCA music Austin Lopeman; Secretaries: Patti Martinez, Amanda Bradshaw, Mahlon Owens, Jenn Gruber, Julie Kelley, Ashleigh Martinez; Timers: Jolie Thurston, Jessica Andrews; Pick-up men: Rick Moffett and Riley York. Livestock from Jack Owens Ranches, Colby Camacho, and saddle broncs from Rockin’ M Rodeo.

AR Ranch, Lincoln, CA was first place team receiving the silver buckles and ropes, with Tucker Bourdet, Andy Holcomb, and Chant DeForest. In the finals Saturday night, they sorted seven head wearing red tags in 2.28; counted 79 head in 34 seconds correctly, and Tucker Bourdet had an 84 in bronc riding.

2nd place and the silver spurs to Norcutt Livestock, Ely, NV, with Clay Norcutt and his horse Seth, scoring 150 in finals and 146 in long go on the Top Horse, and receiving a silver bit, handmade headstall, and reins from Jack Armstrong, donated by Orland Livestock Auction. Zalin Arritola was 88 in finals, and 85 in long go bronc riding. Unfortunately, the audio was poor Saturday night on Cowboy Channel Plus, and I don’t know if he won the Wild Ride buckle donated by the committee. Gus King was a calf roper.

The Wildest 2026 Ranch Bronc Horse Ride goes to @cooperwilliams1212 Cooper Williams team was - Chief & the Pale Faces from Wisdom, MT. Thanks for coming all this way to compete in our JP Ranch Rodeo Cooper.

3rd place to Indian Valley Ranch, San Miguel, CA, with Top Hand Tucker Robinson receiving the trophy saddle handcrafted by Judd Miller and donated by Animal Health International. Tucker Robinson scored a 146 in the Ranch Horse finals and 151 in lthe ong go, plus the team received the Stirrups for placing third. Rowdy Russel was a bronc rider, and Danny Leslie was a calf roper. In the long go, they sorted 7 head of cattle with blue tags in 2:23, while finals were 5 head in 2:54.

Lazy Spade Ranch, Red Bluff, was the only local team to make the finals and receive the saddle blankets for fourth place. Tanner Kerr was 146 and 148 in Ranch Horse, with Hank Bunting and Ernesto Madrigal, they were 2.11 in calf branding long go and 2.20 in finals. I missed Hanks time in calf roping due to the audio, and Ernesto had two wild bronc rides that ended before 8 seconds.

Knives were the 5th place award, going to Cal-Ore Livestock with Colton Campbell on ranch horse, Jordan Ketcher calf roping, and Kade Holman as bronc rider. Last year, Cal-Ore Livestock was the top team, with the same contestants. In branding, they were 2.0 and 2.39; they counted 80 heads in 43.1 in long go, but missed one in finals. Jordan was 24.1 in long go calf roping and 41 in finals. Kade was 87 in bronc riding finals.

Halters to Rice and Sparrowk, Clements, CA, for 6th place this year. I believe they have had a team every year since 1997, and 1999 Sparrowk Ranch was the top team, andin 2003 Rice Sparrowk Ranches was the top team. Rich Rice on Scarlett won top horse in 1999 and 2003, and in 2014 he won with Kozy. Thirty years ago, I was on the California Beef Council board with Rich’s father, John Rice, and his parents would attend the JP Ranch Rodeo, and we would visit. Now, Rich and son Daniel, with Chance Machado, are the team.

The 2025 Henry Heitman Scholarship recipients were Madison Duarte, attending Cal Poly; Bayli Ladner, attending Kansas State University; Adelia Martinez, attending Shasta College; Colt Piazza, attending Cal Poly; and Carson Pray, attending Cal Poly also.

Several Los Angeles officials have urged Casey Wasserman, the chair of the LA28 Olympics committee, to step down after emails between him and convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell surfaced.

The emails date back to 2003 and appear among more than 3m files related to Jeffrey Epstein released by the justice department last week.

The Los Angeles county supervisor Janice Hahn is one of several officials calling on the sports agent and entertainment executive to resign.

“Having him represent us on the world stage distracts focus from our athletes and the enormous effort needed to prepare for 2028,” Hahn told the Los Angeles Times. Los Angeles city council members Hugo Soto-Martinez and Imelda Padilla, as well as state senator Lena Gonzalez and county supervisor Lindsey Horvath, have also joined in calling for his resignation.

The flirtatious email exchanges between Wasserman and Maxwell included one message in which Wasserman said he thought about Maxwell frequently.

One of the messages shows Wasserman telling Maxwell: “I think of you all the time. So, what do I have to do to see you in a tight leather outfit?”

Other emails reference massages, as well as one message in which Maxwell asks whether it would be foggy enough during a future visit “so that you can float naked down the beach and no one can see you unless they are close up?”

Wasserman replies: “or something like that.”

Wasserman has denied having a personal or business relationship with Epstein. In a statement released Saturday, he said: “I deeply regret my correspondence with Ghislaine Maxwell which took place over two decades ago, long before her horrific crimes came to light.”

“I never had a personal or business relationship with Jeffrey Epstein,” he added. “As is well documented, I went on a humanitarian trip as part of a delegation with the Clinton Foundation in 2002 on the Epstein plane. I am terribly sorry for having any association with either of them.”

The Guardian has reached out to Wasserman for comment.

Wasserman, 51, is the chair and president of the Los Angeles organizing committee for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games and is also the founder and CEO of Wasserman, a global firm specializing in marketing and talent management that represents various athletes, artists and brands.

Reuters contributed to this report

The Dallas Mavericksare reportedly preparing to trade 10-time NBA All-Star Anthony Davisto the Washington Wizards, just one year after picking up the power forward from the Los Angeles Lakers in return for Luka Dončić.

According to a post shared by ESPN "insider" Adam Schefter, the Mavericks have agreed to trade Davis, 32, to the Wizards along with Jaden Hardy, D'Angelo Russell and Dante Exum, in exchange for "Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham, Marvin Bagley III, 2 first-round picks and 3 second-rounders."

Davis has only been with the Mavericks for a matter of months, after being traded to the team for Dončić in a controversial deal in February 2025. Prior to that, the NBA superstar had been with the Lakers for six years—and had long since established himself as a California resident.

However, six months after moving to Dallas, Davis made the decision to cut ties with his sprawling Los Angeles home, listing the incredible property for the sky-high price of $39.9 million.

Located in Bel Air, the dwelling is described in its listing as "the ultimate trophy estate," complete with more than 3.5 acres of land, anchored by a huge 17,200-square-foot mansion with eight bedrooms and 8.5 bathrooms.

This is a developing story, please check back for updates.

In anticipation of Iowa basketball's (16-5, 6-4 Big Ten) home matchup vs. No. 12 Purdue (18-4, 8-3 Big Ten) on Feb. 14, fans have officially sold out Carver-Hawkeye Arena for a men's basketball game for the first time in two years.

According to Iowa Athletics, this is Iowa basketball's first home sellout since the Hawkeyes' regular-season finale against Illinois on March 10, 2024.

𝙎𝙊𝙇𝘿 𝙊𝙐𝙏 𝘾𝙃𝘼 ⚠️ pic.twitter.com/XcgsJndgWE

— Iowa Men’s Basketball (@IowaHoops) February 3, 2026

After dropping the meeting against the Boilermakers on Jan. 14 in a tightly contested 79-72 final from Mackey Arena in West Lafayette, the Hawkeyes will look to get their revenge in front of a raucous Carver-Hawkeye Arena crowd and potentially secure a significant Quad 1 victory as a result.

The sold-out clash with the Boilermakers on Feb. 14 will begin at 4 p.m. CT and be broadcast on Fox.

Iowa returns to action on Feb. 4, when it travels to take on Washington (12-10, 4-7 Big Ten) from Alaska Airlines Arena.  The game will begin at 10 p.m. CT and be televised on BTN.

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: Iowa basketball vs Purdue officially sold out

Thunder star guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will be out through the NBA All-Star break after sustaining an abdominal strain Tuesday night against the Magic, the team announced Wednesday. 

Named as an All-Star starter, SGA will now miss the game. 

The 27-year-old guard is averaging 31.8 points, 6.4 assists and 4.4 rebounds per game. 

Perhaps in a corresponding move, it was reported Wednesday that the Thunder are acquiring guard Jared McCain from the 76ers. McCain gives the Thunder guard depth amid injuries to SGA, Jalen Williams and Ajay Mitchell. 

This article will be updated.

Joe Mussatto is a sports columnist for The Oklahoman. Have a story idea for Joe? Email him at jmussatto@oklahoman.com. Support Joe's work and that of other Oklahoman journalists by purchasing a digital subscription today at subscribe.oklahoman.com.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander out with injury through NBA All-Star break

For a while now, Real Madrid young defender Raul Asencio has been playing through pain and discomfort from a fissure in his tibia.

Given the lack of defensive options due to the absences of Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger, the La Fabrica graduate has pushed himself to play through the problem for the benefit of the team.

The 22-year-old Spaniard was taken off at half-time against Rayo Vallecano last weekend, sparking concerns about his condition.

Careful management ahead of Valencia clash

Now, according to MARCA, Asencio has not been ruled out for the trip to Mestalla. Arbeloa’s objective is to protect his most in-form centre-back in order to have him available against Valencia.

That is the plan, with day-to-day caution given the worrying nature of the injury, which could end the academy graduate’s season if it were to worsen due to excessive strain.

With Rudiger, Militao, Ferland Mendy and Trent Alexander-Arnold injured, and with Dani Carvajal and David Alaba not yet in optimal condition to compete, the absence of the academy defender would have left Arbeloa with minimal options.

Fully committed to the team. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

This situation is what led Asencio to accept the risk involved in playing with his current injury. At least until Rudiger returns, who is in the final stage of his recovery, allowing a brief respite that could ease the ongoing discomfort.

Alongside Rudiger, Mendy and Trent are also close to returning, which could open the door to a rest period for Asencio. However, that will not be at Mestalla, where Arbeloa will do everything possible to ensure his presence.

A rest could come against Real Sociedad, with the aim of having him in the best possible condition for the Champions League tie against SL Benfica. In that scenario, he would have nine days to recover.

Two months needed

Asencio is aware that the solution to the tibial fissure he is carrying would require stopping for close to two months, between six and eight weeks. That is the estimated period of inactivity needed to ensure the fissure fully heals.

However, this is where what is best for the player directly clashes with what the team needs. Such a prolonged absence of the defender at this moment would be devastating for Arbeloa.

Faced with the choice between what was best for himself and what was best for the team, Asencio chose the latter. It is a risk he is taking for Real Madrid and with the dream of playing in a World Cup in mind.

The FC Metz management team have decided to take the captain’s armband away from hometown favourite Gauthier Hein, RMC has reported.

Hein (29) originally came through the Metz youth system and, after starring for AJ Auxerre as they won promotion to Ligue 1 in the 2023-2024 season, he chose to remain in Ligue 2 with a return to les Grenats. His 13 goals – including a spectacular finish from the half-way line in the play-off against Stade de Reims, helped Metz to return to Ligue 1 and, after Matthieu Udol was sold to RC Lens in the summer, Hein was handed the club captaincy.

Metz are struggling at the bottom of Ligue 1 and, although Hein leads their goalscoring and assists charts (six goals and four assists), there has been a school of thought within the club that his performances have been affected by the weight and extra responsibilities that come with the armband – something that Hein himself denied when asked about it earlier in the season.

The decision to relieve Hein of the captaincy was not made by newly installed coach Benoît Tavenot who, like Hein himself, was informed by the management on Tuesday. However, it was left to Tavenot to provide a justification in a press conference today, saying that he can now concentrate solely on the pitch rather than spreading himself too thinly with other matchday responsibilities and that, if he is disappointed, it has not shown in training.

The captaincy will likely pass to another of Metz’s more experienced players, possibly Benjamin Stambouli (35) or Habib Diallo (30).

GFFN | Jeremy Smith

Several changes have come to the New York Giants this offseason. They’re one of 10 teams to hire a new head coach, and they landed the most accomplished one, in John Harbaugh. He’s since been busy filling out his coaching staff.

On Tuesday, the Giants hired two-time Super Bowl winner Matt Nagy as the offensive coordinator/playcaller. They previously announced the hires of Dennard Wilson as defensive coordinator and Chris Horton as special teams coordinator.

The latest Giants hire doesn’t come from another team; they’ve gotten this one from the league office.

According to ESPN’s Jordan Raanan, the Giants have hired Dawn Aponte as their vice president. Aponte had been working for the NFL since 2017 as the chief administrator of football operations.

Yet, she’s previously worked for the New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, and Miami Dolphins, so this won’t be the first time in a similar role. Her previous titles include working as a salary cap analyst, senior director of football administration, and senior V.P. of football operations, which is also her new title with the Giants.

Aponte replaces Kevin Abrams, who had been with the Giants for 27 years, but was let go in January as the team enters a new phase. Now she’ll be one of the highest-ranked members in the organization, but she brings plenty of experience to the table.

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In the latest acknowledgement of a mistake made in the February 2025 Luka Dončić trade, the Dallas Mavericks have shipped the centerpiece of their haul in that deal, big man Anthony Davis to the Washington Wizards.

The Wizards will also get Jaden Hardy, D'Angelo Russell and Dante Exum. In return, Dallas will receive Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham, Marvin Bagley III, 2 first-round picks and 3 second-rounders, as reported first by ESPN on Wednesday.

For the Mavericks, it’s another indication that the franchise is rebuilding with No. 1 overall rookie Cooper Flagg as its clear leader. Dallas has been uneven this season, going 19-31, which ranks 12th in the Western Conference. With his size, versatile skill set, ability to handle the ball and create and comfort in transition offense, Flagg has flashed plenty of potential, and Dallas is signaling that its plan is to build around Flagg.

On Nov. 11, the Mavericks fired former general manager Nico Harrison, the architect of the Dončić-Davis deal. In his place, Dallas installed former player Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi as co-interim general managers.

Davis, 32, has faced constant injury concerns throughout his career, and has already missed several games this season with lower leg and hand issues. In fact, since the Mavericks traded for him February 2, 2025, Davis has played only 29 games for the franchise.

When on the floor, he provides a reliable defensive and rebounding presence, though his offensive numbers have declined since he arrived in Dallas. Across 20 games this season with the Mavericks, Davis averaged just 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game.

By comparison, his career scoring average is notably higher, at 24 points per game.

Now with the Wizards, Davis provides a veteran low-post presence and one capable of the occasional big game. Still, given his age and given his durability concerns, it’s clear that Davis’ days as a consistent offensive force are no longer here.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mavericks trade Anthony Davis to Wizards in 8-player deal: Full details

We now know who Sharks wouldn't give up in Artemi Panarin trade originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The San Jose Sharks emerged as the most surprising contender in the pursuit of an Artemi Panarin trade from the New York Rangers.

In large part, that's because not many would've seen the Sharks competing for a playoff position this season, yet there they are, right in the thick of contention.

That made the idea of accelerating their timeline and getting a proven veteran scorer like Panarin one that surely seemed appealing.

Aside from the obvious Macklin Celebrini, it appears there's at least one other player the Sharks wouldn't give up to get Panarin, though.

According to insider Jimmy Murphy, Will Smith was also off limits.

MORE: How Connor McDavid is to the Oilers what Josh Allen is to the Bills

Of course, that's pretty logical.

Smith is still just 20 years old, the No. 4 overall pick out of Boston College in the 2023 NHL Draft.

The center has already played 115 NHL games for San Jose and continued to show his promise.

In 2024-25, Smith played 74 games and tallied 18 goals with 27 assists.

This season, Smith has 17 goals and 22 assists through just 41 games played.

He has increased his statistics pretty much across the board this season, aside from faceoff percentage.

Smith is a key component to the Sharks becoming a contender beyond just Celebrini.

The 19-year old Celebrini's otherworldly season hasn't been entirely matched by any of his teammates, but Smith is one of the guys who would have the best chance of keeping pace and developing into a star of his own.

That's certainly worth hanging onto rather than risking giving up a long-term, bright future to latch on to an aging Panarin.

More NHL news:

• Blues' huge asking price for Robert Thomas revealed
• Dougie Hamilton's contract is a big problem
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Pittsburgh Steelers star wide receiver DK Metcalf is back in the spotlight, but this time for a multimillion-dollar controversy tied to the incident that took place during the Steelers’ matchup against the Detroit Lions in December 2025.

In the Dec. 21, 2025, matchup at Ford Field in Detroit, Metcalf got into a physical confrontation with a Lions fan seated near the sideline. Video from the game showed him walking over, grabbing the fan’s shirt, and then appearing to throw a punch or swing at him.

MORE: Steelers make final decision on DK Metcalf’s $45 million situation

The same Lions fan, Ryan Kennedy, has now filed a $100 million lawsuit against DK Metcalf and others. Per The Athletic of The New York Times, “A Detroit Lions fan who was involved in an altercation with Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf during a game has filed a $100 million defamation lawsuit against Metcalf and others.” The update hit the NFL world on Wednesday, Feb. 4.

During the matchup, Kennedy and Metcalf had a verbal exchange near the Steelers’ sideline while Kennedy leaned over the front-row railing. Metcalf then appeared to grab Kennedy’s shirt and make an upward swinging motion toward him.

The lawsuit does not stop there. It also names former NFL wide receiver Chad Ochocinco Johnson and Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe, now both media personalities. One day after the game, Johnson, who previously played for the Cincinnati Bengals, said on the Nightcap podcast with Sharpe that Kennedy had used a racial slur when referring to Metcalf.

“I got word, obviously, I’m not condoning putting your hands on a fan or punching a fan, but he did call [Metcalf] a racial slur,” Johnson told his co-host and Hall of Fame inductee, Shannon Sharpe. “He called him the N-word, and he did call his mom a c—. I think with those words being exchanged and the fan saying that, that’s where the action occurred.”

The Lions fan’s attorney slammed Metcalf for false accusations. Kennedy’s attorney Jon Marko said in an email to The Athletic, “The N-Word is the most offensive and inflammatory racial slur in the English language. No other word expresses so much hatred and bigotry. Falsely accusing someone of using that word hurts not only the person falsely accused, but hurts every true victim of racial hatred and bigotry.”

The league handed Metcalf a two-game suspension for the altercation, and his appeal was rejected the following day. In late December, the NFL said it was continuing to review the situation to see whether Kennedy had breached the guest code of conduct.

After the $100 lawsuit, the Steelers’ Metcalf and the others named by Kennedy have yet to publicly address the situation. Their silence, for now, only adds to the intrigue of a case that has already raised eyebrows.

— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —

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The post DK Metcalf faces multi-million dollar lawsuit following controversial incident appeared first on The Big Lead.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly closing in on a deal with former Minnesota Vikings passing game coordinator and tight ends coach Brian Angelichio to become their next offensive coordinator, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported on Wednesday.

Angelichio’s hiring would presumably fill out the main trio of coordinator positions under new Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy. The team hired former Raiders DC Patrick Graham as defensive coordinator and is reportedly expected to hire Danny Crossman as the special teams coordinator.

Angelichio, 53, joined the Vikings staff under Kevin O’Connell back in 2022, with prior stops with the Cleveland Browns, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Green Bay Packers and Carolina Panthers. The Vikings ranked in the top six in the league in passing yards and passing touchdowns in three of their four seasons with the team.

McCarthy confirmed in his introductory news conference that he would call the plays and “obviously will run the offense,” though Angelichio will hold the official title of offensive coordinator.

There are plenty of questions regarding what that offense may look like, however. As veteran Aaron Rodgers hits free agency in the coming month, questions at the quarterback position continue to loom over the franchise, though there is still the possibility he could return in 2026. Rodgers and McCarthy have a long-standing relationship, having been together with the Green Bay Packers from 2006 to 2018.

Despite the fact that McCarthy says he “definitely” wants Rodgers back next season, reports have indicated that his hiring wasn’t an attempt to “lure” the veteran quarterback back to the Steelers in free agency.

While the quarterback position remains up in the air, the Steelers will have several weapons returning on offense this year, including veteran wideout DK Metcalf, who was acquired in a trade with the Seahawks last season, as well as tight ends Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington, and running back Jaylen Warren. The team has also made a concerted effort to rebuild its offensive line in recent years.

The San Antonio Spurs are 3-1 against the Oklahoma City Thunder this season.

A fifth matchup in the regular season is a rarity, only existing because of the In-Season Tournament. This kind of familiarity makes for tight games.

My Thunder vs. Spurs predictions expect that kind of familiarity to limit Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s secondary impact, one of many NBA picks for Wednesday, February 4.

Editor’s note: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has since been ruled out of tonight’s contest with an abdominal strain.

Thunder vs Spurs prediction

Thunder vs Spurs best bet: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Under 6.5 assists (-105)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has dished out assists lately, 30 total in the Oklahoma City Thunder's last three games, but that is not his specialty.

Gilgeous-Alexander has fallen short of this prop in 28 of his 49 games this season, including three of his four games against the San Antonio Spurs this season.

The Spurs' length bothers even the Thunder, and of SGA's many strengths, he does not look to move the ball thoroughly once in the half-court. His head tends to be focused on the rim, one of the drawbacks to his foul-baiting habits.

Thunder vs Spurs same-game parlay

Gilgeous-Alexander has shot a solid but underwhelming 50.6% against the Spurs this season, compared to 55.9% against all other opponents.

That has certainly played a part in San Antonio winning three of their four matchups against OKC.

Thunder vs Spurs SGP

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Under 6.5 assists
• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Under 31.5 points
• Spurs moneyline

Our "from downtown" SGP: King of the Castle

Stephon Castle cleared this prop in each of his last two games against Oklahoma City, and with the Thunder on the second night of a back-to-back, his frenetic pace should exploit OKC more than usual.

Thunder vs Spurs SGP

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Under 6.5 assists
• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Under 31.5 points
• Stephon Castle Over 6.5 assists
• Spurs moneyline

Thunder vs Spurs odds

• Spread: Thunder -1.5 (-110) | Spurs +1.5 (-110)
• Moneyline: Thunder -125 | Spurs +105
• Over/Under: Over 222 (-110) | Under 222 (-110)

Thunder vs Spurs betting trend to know

Seven straight Spurs games have gone Under their totals, and by an average of 12.4 points. Find more NBA betting trends for Thunder vs. Spurs.

How to watch Thunder vs Spurs

Thunder vs Spurs latest injuries

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here

It's been six years since Ireland's last Six Nations win in Paris, when a famous last-gasp drop goal set them on the way to Grand Slam glory.

In that time, they have lost twice in France and although they won in 2024, that was in Marseille and not Paris.

Ahead of Thursday's Six Nations opener between the sides, why not test your rugby knowledge?

How many of Joe Schmidt's Ireland squad can you name from 2018? You've 23 players to guess, so good luck!

Stay up to date with the latest Irish rugby news.

Luka Doncic, Lakers get last laugh as Mavericks trade Anthony Davis after less than two seasons originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks felt bold toward the end of the 2024-25 trade season. 

The two Western Conference franchises felt compelled to pull off a blockbuster that no one saw coming. In the blockbuster deal, the Lakers sent Anthony Davis to the Mavericks for Luka Doncic. 

At the time, it was unclear who won the trade, as both superstars featured in the shocking transaction had proven they could be organization-bolstering assets who aren’t strangers to competing in the NBA Finals (Davis won a title with the Lakers in 2020, and Doncic reached the 2024 NBA Finals with the Mavericks in 2024 before falling to the Boston Celtics). 

However, it became clear that Luka Doncic and the Lakers ultimately got the last laugh, as the Mavericks recently gave up on Davis after less than two seasons.

“BREAKING: The Dallas Mavericks are trading 10-time NBA All-Star Anthony Davis, Jaden Hardy, D'Angelo Russell and Dante Exum to the Washington Wizards for Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham, Marvin Bagley III, 2 first-round picks and 3 second-rounders,” ESPN’s Shams Charania reported on X/Twitter Wednesday.

“Dallas is receiving a 2026 Thunder first-round pick and a 2030 protected Warriors first-round pick in this deal from the Wizards along with second rounders in 2026 (Phoenix Suns ), 2027 (Chicago Bulls) and 2029 (Houston Rockets), sources tell ESPN.”

While Davis is on the move again, Doncic is enjoying life as a recently acquired Lakers star. The six-time All-Star has been performing at an MVP-caliber level with Los Angeles,  which explains why the Lakers have remained afloat without Reaves in the lineup for several contests (calf injury).

Doncic is averaging 33.4 points, 8.7 assists, and 7.9 rebounds per game this season, shooting 47.5% from the field and 34.8% from three-point land in 41 contests with the Lakers. 

There’s no question that Doncic and the 17-time NBA champions should be deemed winners of last year’s historic deal.

VfB Stuttgart received 10.8 million euros from the association last year for winning the DFB Cup. Thanks to automatic qualification for the Europa League and participation in the Supercup against FC Bayern, this amount increased even further afterwards.

And what if Hoeneß and his Stuttgart team manage to do it again this season? Then even more money would be in store—though only slightly more. According to ‘kicker’ information, the DFB will distribute just under 10.9 million euros to the cup winner in total.

Undav and Co. want to take the first step this evening in the quarterfinals against second-division side Holstein Kiel. And at the Holstein-Stadion, it’s not just about reaching the semifinals—there’s also a considerable sum at stake. Whoever wins the match is guaranteed total earnings of 6.57 million euros, according to ‘kicker’. That’s more than double the prize money earned so far.

📸 Stuart Franklin - 2025 Getty Images

The final at the Olympiastadion is where the financial stakes really get serious. The winner alone receives 4.32 million euros for winning the final. Combined with the prizes from the first round onwards, this adds up to just under 10.9 million euros guaranteed for the cup winner. Earnings from European competition and the Supercup are not included yet. 

In total, there are 75 million euros in the prize pool this season, a bit more than last year, when 74.2 million euros were distributed.

With every round they advance, a significant amount of money flows into the coffers. However, on the pitch tonight, the Stuttgart players are likely to be less aware of this than of the fact that with a win, they’d be just one step away from their big goal and their fans could once again sing: “Berlin, Berlin – we’re going to Berlin!”

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

📸 Stuart Franklin - 2025 Getty Images

Super Bowl player props are becoming the thing to bet on for the Big Game, with Super Bowl props no longer just limited to passing, rushing, and receiving yards.

Nowadays, it's touchdown scorers, derivative props, defensive stats, kicking points, and alternate totals — if it’s on the box score, it can be added to your NFL picks.

We're keeping you on top of all the major props released by Super Bowl betting sites with a live list of the best NFL odds available for Super Bowl 60.

Latest Seahawks vs Patriots player prop picks

Writer	Prop
Jason Logan	S. Darnold o19.5 completions	<<-110>>	<<-110>>
Jason Logan	R. Shaheed o21.5 receiving yards	<<-110>>	<<-110>>
Josh Inglis	R. Stevenson o50.5 rushing yards	<<-115>>	<<-115>>
Jason Logan	G. Holani o1.5 receptions	<<-115>>	<<+105>>
Jason Logan	H. Henry o36.5 receiving yards	<<-115>>	<<-115>>
Jason Logan	R. Shaheed longest reception o15.5 yards	<<-115>>	<<-115>>
Joe Osborne	K. Walker III o21.5 receiving yards	<<-118>>	<<-110>>
Joe Osborne	D. Maye o218.5 passing yards	<<-110>>	<<-110>>
Rohit Ponnaiya	S. Darnold o229.5 passing yards	<<-113>>	<<-115>>
Jason Logan	D. Maye longest rush o13.5 yards	<<-125>>	<<-110>>
Jason Logan	R. Stevenson anytime touchdown	<<+160>>	<<+125>>
Jason Logan	J. Bobo Over 0.5 receiving yards	<<+180>>	<<+190>>
Neil Parker	A. Barner first touchdown scorer	<<+1200>>	<<+1350>>
Neil Parker	D. Maye first touchdown scorer	<<+1300>>	<<+1400>>
Josh Inglis	M. Hollins anytime touchdown	<<+425>>	<<+325>>
Josh Inglis	R. Shaheed anytime touchdown	<<+350>>	<<+325>>

To see more Seahawks vs. Patriots predictions, visit our NFL picks!

Super Bowl player props: Touchdowns

The Super Bowl touchdown props market is arguably the most popular prop market going, perhaps due to its simplicity: If the player you back scores a touchdown (or multiple TDs), you win.

Some sportsbooks even offer futures on touchdown props that bettors can take long before the teams are known. While anytime touchdown markets are popular, you can find longer odds on Super Bowl first touchdown props if you're looking for a bigger payout.

Super Bowl anytime touchdown odds

Player
Kenneth Walker III	<<-180>>	<<-180>>
Jaxon Smith-Njigba	<<-110>>	<<-125>>
Rhamondre Stevenson	<<+160>>	<<+125>>
Hunter Henry	<<+220>>	<<+210>>
Stefon Diggs	<<+240>>	<<+240>>
A.J. Barner	<<+240>>	<<+225>>
Cooper Kupp	<<+250>>	<<+335>>
Kayshon Boutte	<<+295>>	<<+260>>
Drake Maye	<<+310>>	<<+235>>
Rashid Shaheed	<<+370>>	<<+315>>