Iowa women's basketball has three players listed as out on the availability report for Friday's Big Ten Tournament game vs. Illinois.
The good news is, Hannah Stuelke is not listed on the league-mandated injury report. So Hawkeye fans likely will see the senior star on the court at some point vs. the Illini.
Kennise Johnson, Emely Rodriguez and Jada Gyamfi are not available for 2-seed Iowa. Taylor McCabe is also listed as out for the season following an ACL injury last month.
Illinois, the 10-seed, has three players out for the season.
Here's a look at the availability report ahead of Friday's 5:30 p.m. CT contest.
The Dallas Cowboys may be out of the running for Maxx Crosby. Reports were that the Cowboys were close to closing the deal for Crosby, but the deal fell through.
Now, reports are that the Cowboys may be turning their attention to former Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson.
Former ESPN host Trey Wingo thinks Hendrickson will be the next target on the Cowboys' list.
“Things are moving fast re Maxx Crosby. Last night, Dallas thought they were close to a deal, but since then, other teams have raised the ante and potentially are offering the Raiders 2 1st round picks. Expected Dallas to now shift their focus to Trey Hendrickson.”
Things are moving fast re Maxx Crosby. Last night Dallas thought they were close to a deal but since then other teams have raised the ante and potentially are offering the Raiders 2 1st round picks Expected Dallas to now shift their focus to Trey Hendrickson
Another player that the Cowboys may be looking at is former New Orleans Saints defensive end Cam Jordan.
Don’t be surprised if the Cowboys also take a look at him. The team has made several salary-cap moves this week, trying to make room for new players.
Jerry Jones said the Cowboys will be making some major moves this year in free agency. Maybe he finally realizes the window is starting to close on his team winning one more Super Bowl in his lifetime.
The North Carolina Tar Heels are losing a key piece of their rotation. Talented freshman forward Caleb Wilson will undergo season-ending surgery for his broken right thumb, according to Shams Charania of ESPN.
Wilson broke his right thumb during a non-contact drill in Thursday’s practice and has undergone surgery to repair the fracture. The school mentioned in a press release that the injury occurred during a dunk.
Wilson has had an amazing freshman season with the Tar Heels, averaging 19.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.4 blocks in 31.3 minutes per game. He’s considered a top-five or top-three player in the 2026 NBA draft, ranking behind just Darryn Peterson, AJ Dybantsa, and Cameron Boozer on most big boards. He’s expected to recover in time for basketball activities during the pre-draft process, according to Charania.
Jan 17, 2026; Berkeley, California, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Caleb Wilson (8) pursues the ball during the second half against the California Golden Bears at Haas Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
He has been great when healthy, but he’s had several injuries through the second half of this season. He fractured his left hand last month, which sidelined him from February 10th until now.
It’s a brutal blow for the Tar Heels, though. They’re currently ranked fourth in the ACC and 17th in the AP Top 25, but with the ACC Tournament and March Madness coming up, losing Wilson is a tough blow. Wilson was the team’s leading scorer, rebounder, and passer. He also led the team in steals and blocks per game.
The Tar Heels have had hard luck in March Madness recently. Ever since the 202-22 season, the Tar Heels have never won more than a game in the tournament. It’ll be a lot harder to do without their top player.
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - DECEMBER 14: New England Patriots players huddle during the first half of the game against the Buffalo Bills at Gillette Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Fresh off a berth in Super Bowl LX, the New England Patriots will have to turn the page quickly. In mid-March, the NFL will start its 2026 league year and with it free agency and the trading period. Just five weeks later, the draft awaits.
Needless to say, the offseason is anything but a quiet time for roster construction. So, in order not to get lost, here is our handy up-to-date Patriots roster and depth chart.
Patriots updated roster: 64 players
Quarterback (3): Drake Maye (10), Joshua Dobbs (11), QB Tommy DeVito (16)
Wide receiver (7): Kayshon Boutte (9), Mack Hollins (13), Kyle Williams (18), DeMario Douglas (3), Efton Chism III (86), Jeremiah Webb (29), John Jiles (83)
Tight end (3): Hunter Henry (85), C.J. Dippre (82), Marshall Lang (84)
Offensive tackle (5): Will Campbell (66 | LT), Morgan Moses (76 | RT), Marcus Bryant (52), Sebastian Gutierrez (—), Lorenz Metz (84 | international exemption)
Interior offensive line (7): Jared Wilson (58 | LG), Garrett Bradbury (65 | C), Mike Onwenu (71 | RG), Ben Brown (77), Caedan Wallace (70), Andrew Rupcich (67), Mehki Butler (63)
Interior defensive line (7): Milton Williams (97), Christian Barmore (90), Cory Durden (94), Joshua Farmer (92), Leonard Taylor III (93), Eric Gregory (55), Jeremiah Pharms Jr. (98)
Defensive edge (5): Harold Landry III (2), Anfernee Jennings (33), Elijah Ponder (91), Bradyn Swinson (43), Jesse Luketa (—)
Linebacker (7): Robert Spillane (14), Christian Elliss (53), Jahlani Tavai (48), Marte Mapu (15), Chad Muma (49), Otis Reese (54), Amari Gainer (99)
Cornerback (7): Christian Gonzalez (0), Carlton Davis III (7), Marcus Jones (25 | PR), Charles Woods (22), Kobee Minor (19), Marcellas Dial Jr. (27), Brandon Crossley (46)
Safety (4): Craig Woodson (31), Dell Pettus (24), Brenden Schooler (41), John Saunders Jr. (23)
Can Scotland find a way to stop the free-scoring Louis Bielle-Biarrey? [Getty Images]
From the mouths of the French - players, coaches, scribblers and commentators - come eulogies of what Fabien Galthie's Grand Slam-seekers are all about.
We hear of a side that "brings joy and emotion", a group of boys, and men, who the youth of France now identify with like rarely before, an exhilarating outfit "no longer carried by a single man (the great Antoine Dupont) but by an entire generation."
Against Scotland there's Theo Attisogbe, the 21-year-old wing from Pau, Nicolas Depoortere, the 23-year-old centre from Bordeaux and his other-worldly team-mate, Louis Bielle-Biarrey - 24 tries in 25 Tests. In the back-row, the wonderful Oscar Jegou, the 22-year-old from La Rochelle.
Galthie has given game-time to 10 players aged 23 and under in this Six Nations. No wonder the kids at home have warmed to this side.
With everything working like clockwork, he's clearly run out of things to complain about. Hence, his laughable swipe at the size of the Murrayfield away dressing-room. Some of his players will have to change in the corridor, Galthie whinged. Throughout the rugby world, hearts bled for the man.
In Wales a few weeks back, France had 10,000 fans in the city. On Saturday, they're expecting 15,000 in Edinburgh - "a human tide" the newspaper Midi Olympique calls it.
They'll all be there to see if France can make it four wins out of four, to see if Bielle-Biarrey can score in his ninth consecutive Six Nations game, to see if Les Bleus can blow Scotland away with the same elan they showed when racing, with obscene haste, into a 29-0 lead after 47 minutes against Ireland, a 19-0 lead after 15 minutes against Wales and 19-0, again, after 29 minutes against Italy.
France are not just winning games, they're putting them to bed quickly. Last season they scored 30 tries (a Six Nations record) when winning the title and this season they have 18 already.
A title isn't enough for them this time, though. It's a Grand Slam or disappointment. Galthie has a dream team but heaps of pressure, too. France expects and if they don't get what they want this time then Galthie might be in serious trouble.
They only have one Slam in 15 years, a pitiful total given the resources they have. Everything about them right now screams Slam, but on the pages of Midi Olympique, amid declaring this side as the most popular in the history of the national team, there is a stark warning. "The opportunity is real, the danger, too…"
In France, many see this, and not England in Paris next weekend, as the greatest hurdle to the Slam. They respect Scotland because they play like France, or try to. When Scotland nail it, nobody is safe.
Townsend's team have won five of 13 games against France. That would have been six had it not been for the Sam Skinner try that wasn't given two years ago.
On top of that, they have put it up to Galthie's team in multiple contests. That's where the "danger" comes from. The French expect to win but they have memories of many tough days against Scotland.
And edgy days, too. This is a meeting of two sides who want to play, who thrive on unstructured rugby from turnovers, who are at their very best when the game is fast and loose. And yet, there's a been a bunch of red cards.
Mohamed Haouas punching Jamie Ritchie in the chops in 2020. A Finn Russell forearm to the neck of Brice Dulin in 2021. Grant Gilchist and Haouas, again, in the same game in Paris in 2023. Zander Fagerson's high tackle in a World Cup warm-up game at Murrayfield.
Five really should have become six last season when Peato Mauvaka went head-first into Ben White, but he escaped with a yellow. So it's not all artistry when these two meet. Expect aggro, too.
France pretty much top all of the stats charts - tries scored, carry metres, points per entry into the opposition 22, line breaks, defenders beaten, offloads, dominant tackles, fewest penalties conceded.
They have not been behind for one second of this championship, scoring tries in minutes one, three, 10, 12 and 14. They explode into games, seizing on loose kicks and spilled balls in the air. Their impromptu attack is bewildering.
One second you're in no danger, the next you're done in a blizzard of movement, natural rugby players doing their thing. Their offloads and line-break numbers are hilariously good. The amount of scores they get off first phase must be shattering all Six Nations records. They are a special, special team.
How to stop them? Nobody else has come close, but, then, nobody else has delivered the kind of performance that Scotland are unquestionably capable of. The mad frenzy? They'll love that, so long as they're accurate, so long as they're ruthless.
France, like Scotland, are risk-takers. Because they take chances, and not everything comes off all of the time, they have been turned over more often than any other team in the tournament. Ireland, Wales and Italy haven't been able to take advantage. Scotland can and Scotland must - or they'll go the same way as the other three before them.
As captain, Sione Tuipulotu, knows this better than anybody. France have eyes on a Slam but Scotland have weighty ambitions, too. Two wins out of three and second place in the table. This season could - could - be unforgettable.
"What an exciting opportunity we've created for ourselves here," said Tuipulotu on Friday. "I feel battle-tested leading into this fourth game. We're fully prepared. I'm really excited."
Dealing with these rapid French starts is the first job Scotland must get right. They could do with building a lead and stressing France, make them worry about the prospect of the Slam disappearing over the horizon. Spook them, in other words.
"The plan is to stay with them but also not to be uncomfortable if we're ahead as well," said Tuipulotu. " Not to be uncomfortable if we're behind. The job is to make France feel as uncomfortable as they can for as long as we can.
"For me, there is no game after this one. My mindset was the same when we were on a plane back from Italy. There was no game past England for me.
"France is the team that's in front of us and anything the week after that, we'll take care of that when we get there.
"The desperation of there not being another game after this one has worked for us up until this point, so there's not any point in us changing that mentality. There is no other game after this if we don't take care of this one."
Tuipulotu knows the implications of inaccuracy against this lethal French force. "They know how to punish you when you make errors, so we've got to be careful that we don't make too many of those," he said. "You do that, you control the game.
"We need to start fast, but against a quality team like that, starting fast isn't going to win you the game. We've got to start fast and finish fast as well. It's going to take an 80-minute performance, one that we know we're capable of."
The captain wants the Murrayfield crowd to be as hostile as possible. Loud and aggressive. All hands on deck for the freewheeling, free-scoring French, the ultimate test in northern hemisphere rugby - if they can manage to get out of their tiny dressing room, that is.
Restructuring the contracts of Patrick Mekari and Eric Murray freed up nearly $11 million in cap space for the 2026 season. But, according to Over the Cap, the Jaguars are still in the red by $6.04 million.
Jacksonville has to be cap compliant by March 11th, when the new league year begins, but they'll also want some additional space to make any additions.
Here are three ways to create some salary cap room.
Extend Travon Walker
Last offseason, the Jaguars picked up Walker's fifth-year option for the 2026 season. This is effectively a one-year deal and comes with a pre-determined salary of $15.19 million, and that entire amount must be absorbed on the 2026 salary cap books.
An extension, however, would help create more cap room. Although a lot more money is added to the deal, there are more years added as well, providing a longer runway for current cap charges to be pushed towards -- thus creating cap space in 2026.
By OTC's calculations, the Jaguars could create a maximum of $11.18 million in cap space this offseason by extending Walker.
Find a trade partner for Walker Little
Cole Van Lanen seized control of the starting left tackle job last season and was rewarded with an extension. Little was then forced to come off the bench and even filled in at right guard when needed.
As of now, it doesn't look like his role in 2026 is going to change and with a base salary of $11 million and a cap hit of $14.49 million, that's a lot to be paying a backup.
If the Jaguars could trade him, it would free up $7.26 million in cap space. That, however, could be difficult. Again, Little has an $11 million salary that the new team would have to pay, and his play last season was up and down.
Releasing Little doesn't save the Jaguars much in cap space.
Restructure Foye Oluokun's deal
Oluokun comes with a $17.11 million cap hit this season. With two years left on his deal, plus two void years already added to the contract, there is a three-year runway for the Jaguars to push some of the current year's cap charges into a restructure.
Oluokun's current cap number in the void years is just $549,000, which could make it more enticing to rework his deal. A max restructure would open up $6.33 million in cap space.
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The first season for Minnesota under coach Niko Medved has become an iron man event, with injuries depleting the roster and forcing most of the current starters to be ready to play the entire game.
The stipulations in the Big Ten's media contracts have benefited the basketball program beyond the annual revenue of more than $60 million that goes to the athletic department. The Gophers badly need those TV timeouts, too.
Their core four players — Cade Tyson, Isaac Asuma, Langston Reynolds and Bobby Durkin — are all among the top 18 in the Big Ten in minutes played per game. No other team in the conference has more than two players in the heaviest-usage group. Tyson, the transfer from North Carolina and leading scorer, is logging an average of 36.4 minutes per game. Tyson has played the entire game six times in Big Ten play.
“Obviously it’s a dream, but it’s also really tiring at the same time. Going back to the summer, all the hard work we did is just kind of paying off," Reynolds said, smiling. “When it gets to that point in the second half and you’re past the second media timeout, you’re like, ‘Oh, OK. I’ve been here before. I know what I need to do.’”
Three of the original starters, Chansey Willis Jr., Robert Vaihola and Jaylen Crocker-Johnson, suffered season-ending injuries. Presumed rotation players B.J. Omot and Chance Stephens have not been healthy enough to play at all, and Nehemiah Turner has been out since January. One NAIA transfer and two walk-ons round out the roster.
Reynolds, who spent his first three seasons at Northern Colorado, replaced Willis as the primary ball-handler. Durkin was a shooting specialist off the bench who now is so indispensable he played all 40 minutes while going 7 for 11 from 3-point range in Minnesota's win over UCLA last week.
Freshman forward Grayson Grove became the starting big man when Crocker-Johnson hurt his foot. Freshman guard Kai Shinholster is the only reserve who's regularly on the floor. He's played all of 28 minutes over the last three games.
“Even the ones who are playing — we call them ‘healthy’ — are dealing with stuff, and every single time we’re out on the court, I feel like everyone just gives 100%, which is all you can ask for,” Durkin said.
Since Crocker-Johnson was sidelined, the Gophers (14-16, 7-12) have gone 3-3. They host Northwestern on Saturday before entering the Big Ten tournament next week.
“You have to make sure you don’t get into foul trouble, but the luxury is you’ll have your opportunities, which I feel like is all anyone ever wants,” Durkin said.
Medved has been forced to slow down his up-tempo, pass-heavy offense and frequently employ a zone defense on the other end to help minimize the fouling. This is hardly how he envisioned his first season unfolding at his alma mater, after taking his dream job following a successful run at Colorado State, but he has enjoyed court-storming victories at Williams Arena over Indiana, Iowa and Michigan State and has continually been impressed by the spirit of this patchwork roster. Tyson and Reynolds are seniors, but assuming medical redshirts for Willis and Vaihola, everyone else who was expected to contribute will be eligible to return for 2026-27.
“They kind of inspire me, to be honest. It just shows you when you’re committed to it and you stick with it and you refuse to quit, good things can happen,” Medved said. "It’s a great life lesson, too, for all of us.”
It’s been an unlikely couple of days for Drake basketball.
On Thursday, March 5, the Bulldogs defeated Southern Illinois in the first round of the Missouri Valley Conference tournament – snapping a nine game losing streak.
And on Friday, March 6, Drake pulled off an unlikely 100-79 win over Belmont – the regular season conference champion and the No. 1 seed in the tournament.
“It’s been pretty special so far,” said coach Eric Henderson. “I’m certainly happy for our guys. …You know we’ve been through a lot, it’s been a tough stretch for us, but I’ve said it all along: we haven’t lost our spirit. And we showed that tonight.”
With the win, Drake becomes the first No. 9 seed in tournament history to advance to the semifinal round. Before Friday’s game, the No. 1 seed had only lost once in the quarterfinals, when No. 8-seeded Drake took down top-seeded UNI in 2020.
With their wins on Thursday and Friday, the Bulldogs became the first No. 9 seed ever to win two games in the MVC Tournament. Drake did it in style, too, becoming the first team since the 2007 Bulldogs to score 100 points in the tournament– beating Evansville, 101-96, in overtime.
Despite the odds being stacked against the Bulldogs, there weren’t many points on Friday when Drake didn’t look like the better team.
They took control of the game in the first half and never let up. It took less than four minutes into the second half for Drake to extend its lead to double-digits, and Belmont never cut that advantage back into single digits.
Jalen Quinn scored a game-high 31 points, while Owen Larson contributed a career-high 25 points and led the team with eight rebounds and eight assists in the victory.
The Bulldogs advance to the semifinal round for the eighth-straight season, with Drake taking on either Murray State or UIC on Saturday, March 7, at 2:30 p.m. for a spot in the championship game.
Alyssa Hertel is the college sports recruiting reporter for the Des Moines Register. Contact Alyssa at ahertel@dmreg.com or on Twitter @AlyssaHertel.
Arman Tsarukyan and Georgio Poullas are running it back on the wrestling mats this month.
Real American Freestyle announced on Friday that the rematch is set for RAF 7, which takes place March 28 in Tampa. The announcement comes less than a week after their first meeting less than a week ago at RAF 6, where Tsarukyan earned a win via points in the co-main event in Tempe.
But that wasn’t the biggest story.
Moments after the chippy match ended, Tsarukyan punched Poullas, which started an all-out melee between the two teams, with several people coming from the crowd to take part. In a recent interview with MMA Fighting, RAF co-founder Chad Bronstein said they will focus on “securing the area” for the rematch, and doesn’t expect lightning to strike twice.
Confusion continues to surround the matchup as Hype Fighting announced the pairing would compete in a submission-only grappling match at next week’s Hype Brazil event. RAF denied the fight would take place outside of RAF, although Hype continues to say the bout has not been cancelled.
Tsarukyan has been quite busy in the grappling and wrestling world while he awaits his next UFC matchup, which includes a tech fall win over Lance Palmer at January’s RAF 5 event.
Poullas also earned a tech fall win at RAF 5 with a dominant performance against Mugzy in the event’s opening contest.
Mar 1, 2026; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes guard Bruce Thornton (2) is introduced before the game against the Purdue Boilermakers at Value City Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images | Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
This week, 22 high-major scholarship men’s basketball players across the country will celebrate senior night at the same place they started their collegiate careers; 10 of these 22 athletes play in the Big Ten.
Ohio State starting point guard and four-year captain Bruce Thornton is one of them. Throw in the fact that he is just 12 points away from breaking the Ohio State all-time scoring record, and it will be a very big day for him on Saturday.
Thornton, already a two-time All-Big Ten selection (which will become a three-time selection next week), is averaging 19.9 points per game, 5.2 rebounds per game, and 3.8 assists per game during his senior season. He is shooting 55.2% from the field, 39.4% from three-point range, and 81.9% from the free-throw line.
For his career, he is averaging 15.8 points per game, 3.7 rebounds per game, and 3.9 assists per game while shooting 48.4% from the field, 37.9% from three-point range, and 82.6% from the free-throw line.
Thornton has played and started in 132 games, including all 30 this season. He has averaged 34 minutes played per game in his career and 36.2 minutes played per game this season.
He is only five starts away from tying Will Buford at 137 games started, which is the current program record. He is also only two games played away from getting into the top ten all-time in games played.
In those 132 games, he has racked up 2,085 points, just 11 less than the program record 2,096 by Dennis Hopson. Thornton will look to break the record on senior night Saturday against Indiana and lock up a berth to the NCAA tournament with a win.
Head coach Jake Diebler went on the Field of 68 after the game and had high praise for his captain.
“When you’re starting a new program, and you’re building something, you need a player that you can lean on that can help you establish that standard, that culture that’s so important,” Diebler told the Field of 68. “He was that guy. It was easy for me. He and I have built a special relationship over the last six years.
He added, “Everything that he’s getting, everything that he’s doing, he deserves because he works so hard. What you see on the court is who he is every single, every rep in practice. “And he’s an even better young man. Couldn’t be happier for him. He’s leading us down this stretch in such a great way. “We’re going to celebrate him, certainly. His Senior Night is something that should be celebrated. Guys like him should be celebrated across the country.”
After the Purdue win that put Ohio State on the right side of the bubble, Purdue head coach Matt Painter had similar praise for Thornton, a player he recruited out of high school.
“We recruited Bruce Thornton,” Painter said. “I traveled to Milton, we really liked Bruce. Bruce liked us so much, he went to Ohio State. I have that effect on people.”
Painter added, “Not a lot of young people are professional; he’s a professional… He’s what college basketball is all about. He could have ran, transferred, all that stuff. He stayed and fought… he’s all about winning. He’s not about himself. Dudes like him are gold.”
However, Indiana is coming to town with a chance to punch its ticket to the Big Dance as well and spoil Ohio State’s senior day.
“We’ve got a huge opportunity there,” Indiana head coach Darian DeVries said about the Ohio State game. “We’ve got to continue to find ways to play a complete 40 minutes, and that would be a great one to do it.”
This will be the 203rd all-time meeting between Ohio State and Indiana. Officially, the Hoosiers lead the series 111-84. There are six vacated games in the series.
The Hoosiers have had Ohio State’s number recently, winning the last five meetings in the series, including the last two games in Columbus. The last four meetings have all been decided by six points or less, which includes a one-point overtime win for Indiana in the team’s last meeting in Columbus last January.
For senior night and in honor of Thornton, the first 2,000 fans will get a Bruce Thornton bobblehead when they enter.
Make no mistake, there are not many programs in the country that would not welcome a player and person like Thornton will there arms wide open, and some have tried to get him into the portal. But he loves Ohio State, loves Jake Diebler, and will finish his career as a Buckeye.
In an era where loyalty isn’t celebrated, and some players go to four schools in four years and even five schools in five years, Saturday should be a testament to Bruce Thornton as a Buckeye, because he is one of the best.
Kyle Kuzma spoke with reporters today for the first time since his first career DNP-CD on Monday against the Celtics. He told reporters that the decision was not communicated to him before it happened.
The New York Jets are looking for a quarterback. There were rumors that they would look in the draft for a quarterback.
But according to Connor Hughes, who covers the Jets and New York Giants, the Jets are looking at two possible quarterbacks.
Hughes posted this interesting tidbit on X about the Jets' situation.
The #Jets might not target just one quarterback in free agency. Belief from agents who met with them at the NFL Combine is that they prefer to add two -- if they can. It's similar to what the #Giants did a year ago (Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston).
“The #Jets might not target just one quarterback in free agency. Belief from agents who met with them at the NFL Combine is that they prefer to add two -- if they can. It's similar to what the #Giants did a year ago (Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston).
Kyler Murray was discussed, but he is expected to sign with the Vikings, per sources. No Kirk Cousins, but watch Geno Smith & Carson Wentz. There is interest there. Jacoby Brissett, too, if the Cardinals can be convinced to part. Was told that's "doubtful," with Jimmy Garoppolo expected to stay in LA. JG signing with the Cardinals would change that.
Wentz might surprise some because of the notion that Frank Reich/Wentz's relationship fell apart in Indianapolis. From my understanding, that was more of a GM/owner role, not a coach. The two remain very close.
One source told me that the QB Reich prefers is Wentz. A quote from another: "No one loves Wentz more than Frank."
This may be surprising and disappointing for some Jets fans, but they may be holding out for next year’s quarterback class, which may be better than the 2026 class.
The San Francisco 49ers took as mall risk last offseason, signing quarterback Mac Jones to a two-year, $7 million deal to back up Brock Purdy, and in ended up working out well, as Purdy missed time with an injury.
Jones appeared in 11 games in 2025 and started eight. He completed a career-high 69.6% of his passes for 2,151 yards, 13 touchdowns and six interceptions while leading the team to a 5-3 record in his starts.
Now, with a manageable contract, many are wondering if San Francisco will trade for Jones. However, according to The Athletic's Zack Blatt, the asking price for Jones may be a little steep.
"The way Jones not only kept the 49ers afloat when Brock Purdy was injured but also thrived (ninth in EPA per attempt) was one of the more surprising stories of last season," Blatt wrote. "Everyone is looking for the next Sam Darnold, and there might not be a better candidate than Jones — the 2021 first-round pick disowned by a team in the AFC East only to spend a year with the 49ers before blossoming elsewhere. The difference is Jones played meaningful snaps for the 49ers (Darnold didn’t), and San Francisco astutely signed him to a cheap two-year deal, so they hold his rights.
"He might be cheap financially ($1.4 million base salary), but he won’t come cheap in a trade: At the combine, multiple league sources said the 49ers are looking for a second-round pick plus more."
San Francisco has publicly said that they want Jones around for 2026, but of course, if a team comes offering premium compensation, they have to listen.
The 49ers also have Adrian Martinez and Kurtis Rourke on the record, who are both unproven in the NFL but could serve as backups for Purdy if someone meets the team's demands.
Duane Rankin: Suns injury report vs. Pelicans: QUESTIONABLE: Royce O’Neale (right foot soreness). OUT: Dillon Brooks (left hand fracture), Jordan Goodwin (left calf strain) and Mark Williams (left foot third metatarsal stress reaction) #Suns
LAS VEGAS – Xiao Long hopes UFC 326 is a coming out party.
Long (27-10 MMA, 1-2 UFC) takes on former UFC bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt (14-7 MMA, 9-7 UFC) as Saturday's featured prelim (Paramount+, CBS) at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
"I think it will be a really, really good matchup for me with my opponent," Long said at Wednesday's media day through a Chinese-language interpreter. "I think the UFC has given a big trust in me."
Although Garbrandt has struggled since losing his bantamweight title, Long knows fighting a name like that is a big opportunity for him.
"I won't miss this chance," Long said. "Of course I know he's really popular and really famous in this division, but I won't miss this chance, and I will let everybody know me."
Long's professional MMA record states 37 fights, which would make him far more experienced on paper than Garbrandt. However, the 27-year-old admits there are some inaccuracies in his record.
"I think there is some mistake inside of my fight record," Long said. "There are some fights that are not big professional fights, but it's still professional experience for me. Of course, the last two years when I got to the Road to UFC and I fought with a grappler, it's also a really good experience for me. I think, really not a big professional record, but it's still good for me, experience."
Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) speaks with defensive line coach Rob Leonard during the second half of an NFL game against the Washington Commanders at Northwest Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, in Landover, Maryland. (Heidi Fang/Las Vegas Review-Journal/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)
The Las Vegas Raiders are getting ready for the start of free agency, hoping to build the football team. Of course, the main rumor that is flying around at the moment is that the team is dealing with Maxx Crosby. Ever since he was put on injury reserve for the final two games of the season, it has been rumored that he could be on the move from the franchise.
John Spytek expressed at the combine that he wants Crosby to be a part of this rebuild with new head coach Klint Kubiak. While that could be the case if the Raiders receive the right deal, he could have already played his last snap for the Raiders.
In this week’s SB Nation Reacts survey, we ask Raider Nation if Maxx Crosby will be traded. The results are in, and surprisingly, only 46% of Raiders fans believe Maxx Crosby will be traded this offseason.
Spytek is holding firm on his price for what it would take for a team to acquire Crosby. While there have been suitors before free agency, it hasn’t led to a deal being made. It will be an eventual offseason for the Raiders.
Luis Díaz scales new heights with latest Bayern Munich goal 😱
Luis Díaz's move to Bayern Munich is increasingly one of the signings of this season.
The Colombia international has taken his performance levels to new levels since making a summer switch from Liverpool and it's proving to be money well spent.
With Harry Kane absent for Vincent Kompany's side in their Bundesliga encounter against Borussia Mönchengladbach on Friday, Díaz stepped up to the plate again.
He notched his 14th domestic goal of the campaign as the Bavarians appeared set to extend their title race lead over Borussia Dortmund to 14 points.
It was also his 20th goal in all competitions from 35 appearances, marking just under half of his overall tally during in three-and-a-half seasons on Merseyside.
As Bayern continue to swagger towards the Meisterschale, Díaz is making a compelling case for the German top flight's most improved player this term.
Spring Training is well underway and the World Baseball Classic pool play has also begun. It’s always a good idea to exercise some caution with early stats because players are frequently working through a few things as they prepare for the regular season. That said, there are early indicators we do keep an eye out for, especially for pitchers, like velocity and new pitches. With the obvious small (and early!) sample size caveats in mind, let’s take a closer look at what the Cubs have seen from Shōta Imanaga two starts into Spring Training.
Cubs fans will recall that the 2025 season ended with Imanaga struggling with pitch location and giving up a large number of home runs as a result. To put that in perspective, you can see some of Shōta’s key stats split by season and month below:
Season
Month
IP
TBF
K/9
BB/9
K/BB
HR/9
K%
BB%
K-BB%
AVG
WHIP
BABIP
LOB%
FIP
xFIP
2024
Mar/Apr
27.2
108
9.11
0.98
9.33
0.65
25.93%
2.78%
23.15%
.181
0.80
.227
88.54%
2.41
3.44
2024
May
30.1
123
9.20
2.08
4.43
0.89
25.20%
5.69%
19.51%
.250
1.19
.317
84.91%
3.10
3.81
2024
Jun
27
117
8.33
1.33
6.25
1.67
21.37%
3.42%
17.95%
.288
1.33
.329
53.33%
4.28
4.33
2024
Jul
24.2
97
9.85
1.09
9.00
1.46
27.84%
3.09%
24.74%
.217
0.93
.262
92.78%
3.69
3.67
2024
Aug
36.2
146
9.08
1.47
6.17
2.21
25.34%
4.11%
21.23%
.221
1.01
.234
73.77%
4.83
3.37
2024
Sept/Oct
27
103
8.67
1.67
5.20
1.33
25.24%
4.85%
20.39%
.184
0.85
.206
100.00%
3.72
3.20
2025
Mar/Apr
39
159
6.92
3.00
2.31
1.62
18.87%
8.18%
10.69%
.214
1.13
.220
90.64%
4.93
4.93
2025
May
5.2
22
6.35
1.59
4.00
0.00
18.18%
4.55%
13.64%
.190
0.88
.235
60.00%
2.25
5.52
2025
Jun
5
17
5.40
1.80
3.00
0.00
17.65%
5.88%
11.76%
.063
0.40
.077
100.00%
2.54
5.00
2025
Jul
33.1
134
7.02
0.54
13.00
2.43
19.40%
1.49%
17.91%
.256
1.05
.250
85.47%
5.36
4.53
2025
Aug
34
122
8.47
1.32
6.40
1.32
26.23%
4.10%
22.13%
.154
0.68
.163
81.25%
3.61
3.92
2025
Sept/Oct
27.2
113
7.16
1.30
5.50
3.25
19.47%
3.54%
15.93%
.275
1.23
.260
65.00%
6.68
4.32
Admittedly, some of these samples are minuscule. The 10.2 innings Imanaga threw between May and June last season while dealing with injury are too small to be meaningful. But there are trends here that are notable. Imanaga’s strikeout rate has declined during his time in MLB. His walk rate is still elite. Say what you will about Imanaga, he throws strikes. Unfortunately, the other thing you can see is that those strikes have been more hittable over time, which is a problem.
During his first two spring training starts there is both good and bad news out of Mesa for Imanaga. The good news is that the velocity on Shōta’s pitches has been up a couple of ticks for both starts. In 2025 Shōta’s fourseam averaged 90.8 miles per hour, his splitter was at 83.0 and his sweeper was 80.3. On February 24, Shōta’s fastball sat around 92 miles per hour and hit 94.1, hist splitter mostly sat at 84 and hit 85.5. He threw one sweeper, it was 82.6 miles per hour. This approximately two mile per hour bump persisted in his second start against the White Sox on March 1 — unfortunately, another problem that reared its ugly head during the 2025 season was on display during the March start: a highly elevated home run rate. Of the four hits Imanaga surrendered in that start against the White Sox, three went over the wall.
Obviously it’s early. Imanaga has only thrown 4.2 innings so far this spring, which is an even smaller sample than either of the tiny months I told you to ignore in the table above. His HR/FB rate will not be 37.5 percent for the spring and unless there is a small sample during a month in the regular season, he won’t post a split like that in the regular season. Pitchers are frequently working on their pitch arsenal and approach during the spring in ways that can radically shift their results from start to start. However, if Shōta is still missing middle-middle when Opening Day rolls around an extra two miles per hour might not be enough to get him back to his 2024 results.
The 2025/2026 offseason was one full of trade rumors, with plenty revolving around the Detroit Tigers with Tarik Skubal.
But the Tigers' two-time Cy Young Award winner is staying in Detroit, at least, for the 2026 season. He's under contract for $32 million, and after 2026, he's slated to hit free agency.
The Tigers would want to extend Skubal to stop him from leaving, but there has not been much buzz about an extension. And for good reason. Skubal revealed in a piece from Bob Nightengale of USA Today that he has not received an offer from the Tigers.
Tigers have not made contract offer to Tarik Skubal
"There is no offer," Skubal said of a possible contract extension offer from the Tigers, "and there won't be an offer until the end of the season..."
Skubal, entering the final year of his club control, will play the 2026 season without getting a new contract offer from the Tigers.
This comment from Skubal reveals that the Tigers and Skubal are putting off extension talks until the offseason, following the 2026 season.
"My focus is on playing baseball and winning this year," Skubal said. "I'll deal with the contract stuff at the end of the year, and then we'll kind of see. And that's fine. It's their decision."
While the Tigers and Skubal coming back together after 2026 isn't a surprise, hearing that there isn't an offer on the table for Skubal at this point is a little odd.
Skubal is sure to land a deal north of $400 million total, and while that's a lot for any one player, and would smash the current pitching contract record, Skubal is worth it.
Heading into the 2026 season, the Tigers don't have an offer on the table for Skubal. Even though he's worth a big extension, the Tigers aren't making an offer just yet.
Any contract talks with Skubal will come after the season, as the Tigers don't have an offer on the table, and don't plan to reconvene with Skubal until after the 2026 season.
DULUTH, Ga. (AP) — Hannah Hidalgo scored 25 points, Iyana Moore added 20 points, nine rebounds and three steals, and No. 5 seed Notre Dame beat fourth-seeded N.C. State 81-63 on Friday in the quarterfinals of the ACC Tournament.
Notre Dame (22-9), which has won seven in a row and nine of 10, plays top-seeded Duke in the semifinals Saturday.
Hildalgo, who also had five rebounds and five assists, has scored at least 25 points in six consecutive games. She made 12 of 20 field goals.
Cassandre Prosper scored 13 points for the Irish.
N.C. State (20-10) had its three-game win streak snapped. Khamil Pierre had 17 points and 14 rebounds — her 21st double-double this season — for the Wolfpack. Murray State's Sharnecce Currie-Jelks leads the nation with 23 double-doubles.
Moore hit a 3-pointer to open the scoring 48 seconds into the game and Notre Dame led the rest of the way. Moore (17) and Hidalgo (16) combined for 33 first-half points on 13-of-24 (54%) shooting — while the rest of the team made just 2 of 10 from the field — as the Irish took a 40-32 lead into the intermission.
Hildalgo converted a three-point play 38 seconds into the third quarter that pushed the lead into double figures for good and sparked a 16-1 run. Prosper, who was scoreless in the first half, scored 11 points in the spurt that gave the Irish a 56-33 lead.
Zamareya Jones had 14 points, Qadence Samuels scored 12 and Zoe Brooks 10 for N.C. State.
Up next
N.C. State: Awaits a likely NCAA Tournament invitation.
After losing 26 out of 41 games in the first half of the season, they’ve gone 17 and 5, including a six-game winning streak heading into Friday night’s home game against the Miami Heat.
A lot about the team is relatively new but since the Spectrum Center opened in 2005, only one person has been at the helm.
Donna Julian will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award later this month from the Charlotte Business Journal.
Julian serves as executive vice president and chief venues officer for Hornets Sports & Entertainment, overseeing all operations at Spectrum Center, the uptown arena home to the NBA’s Hornets. She leads the venue’s administration, including event booking, guest experience, public safety, marketing and day‑to‑day operations.
At 6 p.m., Channel 9’s Evan Donovan speaks with the Julian about her journey and success.
VIDEO: Donna Julian breaks barriers at Charlotte’s Spectrum Center
delivered a smooth run to capture pole for the Good Ranchers 250 at Phoenix Raceway on Saturday.
The 24-year-old Chicago native, who is Team Penske’s newest driver in the #12 Chevrolet, ripped around the 1-mile tri-oval with a flat-out two-lap run with an average of 175.383mph to go to the top of the scoring pylon. It’s the first career pole for Malukas.
“Oh, man, finally, I’m just so happy,” Malukas said. “We had so many P2s. The story of all of last season is we wait until the last few guys and then, boom, we get P2. But finally, we got it! I think the track got in our favor a little bit, it looked like it was getting a bit worse, but we got it. Feels so good.”
Nicknamed ‘the oval king’ by the FOX Sports broadcast team, his Penske teammate Josef Newgarden, a two-time Indianapolis 500 champion, was unable to overthrow Malukas in qualifying, managing a respectable run of 174.548mph two-lap average to start second.
Motorsport photo
RLL and Schumacher shine
Graham Rahal’s #15 Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing (RLL) Honda got loose at the end of his run, but not before temporarily going to the top after two flying laps with an average of 173.993mph. He’ll start third.
RLL rookie Mick Schumacher was the first driver to go out, running a pair of clean laps for an average of 173.667mph to slot fourth for his oval debut.
“Yeah, pretty quick, pretty short, but not great,” Schumacher said. “Great to have the experience. I think we managed to get a good couple of laps together, so hopefully we'll be right in there in the mix and we can manage to have a good start.”
Team Penske’s Scott McLaughlin ended up fifth after a two-lap run of 173.448mph.
ECR’s Alexander Rossi was able to log a 173.389mph outing, ending up sixth. Arrow McLaren’s Pato O’Ward’s promising run was shot with a handful of a second lap, nailing a combined run of 173.344mph to snag seventh.
Reigning and four-time IndyCar Series champion Alex Palou, last week’s winner, could only get up to 10th in his qualifying run, hitting an average of 172.980mph in the #10 Chip Ganassi Racing Honda.
Six-time series champion Scott Dixon struggled during his qualifying run, hitting a 172.074mph two-lap average for 15th in the #9 Chip Ganassi Racing Honda.
The #21 ECR Chevrolet of Christian Rasmussen, who won the most recent short oval race at the Milwaukee Mile last year, struggled to get going, only mustering a run at 171.540mph. He’ll roll off 17th in tomorrow’s race.
Another rookie, Dennis Hauger, had a less-than-stellar outing after plowing to a 169.818mph two-lap run in the #19 Dale Coyne Racing Honda. He’ll start 22nd.
The trouble continued for Will Power, who was the fourth to go out and was on his second of two laps when the backend of his #26 Andretti Global Honda snapped around and backed into the Turn 3 wall. He’ll have to come from 24th on the grid.
“I'm good,” Power said. “My knee hit the dash when it came up, so just pretty sore but nothing broken or anything.”
When asked if he’d be cleared to drive by FOX Sports reporter Kevin Lee, Power said, “I don't know man. I just don’t know what happened, the car is so much looser than we were this morning. It’s very strange. That was tough. The car had been very comfortable there all day. Man, rough start to the year, for sure. These sort of things happening are not good.”
Felix Rosenqvist, who crashed in opening practice, did not qualify after Meyer Shank Racing was unable to repair his #60 Honda in time and will start 25th (last).
Full starting lineup
Felix RosenqvistMeyer Shank Racing with Curb-Agajanian—
The NHL Trade Deadline is officially done, with the 3 p.m. ET finish line now crossed, signalling that the sprint to the postseason is now underway.
Most of the big names reportedly available did not move, but there were still some notable deals made by Stanley Cup odds contenders — and my 2026 NHL Trade Deadline tracker features betting analysis of the most notable deals, and how NHL betting odds were affected by each trade.
Trade: acquire F Corey Perry from for an undisclosed second-round pick
The betting shift: The Tampa Bay Lightning finally make a move, reuniting with Corey Perry for a second-round pick. This isn't an odds mover, but Tampa has moved from +400 outright to +420 week-on-week. The move is because the Sabres are closing in on the No.1 seed in the Atlantic. The Bolts are currently -330 to win the division, but were -900 just on Tuesday.
Trade analysis: The top-heavy Lightning need to be scared of the surging Buffalo Sabres, who are tied with the Bolts for the first spot in the Atlantic, but Tampa has played two fewer games. This trade was needed as the already thin middle-scoring of the Lightning is injured, and Perry can fit a role in a system he knows very well.
Since 2020, Perry has lost five times in the Stanley Cup playoffs, including once with the Lightning in 2022. Buffalo is the better playoff roster, in my opinion.
Trade: acquire F Bobby Brink from for D David Jiricek
The betting shift: The Wild have been stuck on +1,800 to win the Cup for a week. It's a tough spot for them as their first-round opponent is likely the Dallas Stars, who have also gotten better. They are 10/1 to win the division, currently, and the fourth-shortest odds to win the West at +850. I'd still prefer the Stars at the same prices, especially with Dallas projected to get home ice in Round 1.
Trade analysis: Bobby Brink is a great winger for the Wild, who currently have Vladimir Tarasenko in the LW2 spot with Marcus Johansson injured. He could find himself on a great line with Matt Boldy and Joel Eriksson Ek. The Wild still need a No.1 center before I would consider them a better team than the Stars.
Brink's role in Philadelphia was second line and PP1, so his absence will be filled with someone who will likely be priced incorrectly for a point. Denver Barkey might be getting some key offensive minutes down the stretch for the Flyers.
David Jiricek is a former sixth-overall pick in 2022 who is on his third team and has been pointless this year in 25 games. His window for relevance is closing quickly, but there is room for minutes in Philadelphia, especially if Rasmus Ristolainen is shipped out of town.
Trade: acquire D John Carlson from for a 2026 first-round pick* and a 2027 third-round pick
The betting shift: The Anaheim Ducks make a splash and shock the hockey world, and John Carlson, overnight. Anaheim moves to +240 from +290 on Tuesday to win the division and a lengthy +7,000 to win the Cup, the same price as the Capitals, who move to -310 to miss the playoffs from -190 a week ago. Head coach Joel Quenville has slid to +3,300 to win coach of the year, but beating Lindy Ruff is going to be tough to do.
Trade analysis: The Ducks add a potential rental to run a struggling PP1, but the Capitals' power play has been one of the worst units all season. The Ducks also have plenty of offensive-minded defensemen like Jackson LaCombe and Pavel Mintyukov. The real addition here is Cup-winning experience and leadership that Carlson brings, and will help a younger forward group.
I still like Edmonton to take the division at a better price, and if Anaheim hosted the Oilers in the first round, I would have Edmonton as the favorite in the series. The Ducks are a well-constructed roster, but they haven't been together long, nor had playoff adversity/experience together. That 70/1 price should be a little shorter, though, as MoneyPuck has them at 2.6% to win the Cup, which is a true price of +3,746.
The Capitals are just four points out of a playoff spot and apparently aren't giving up on the season. It's tough to believe when you rip out the biggest leader on that team and replace him with nothing that will be coming through the door this weekend. Give the Caps front office credit, though; they shipped Carlson off instead of getting nothing for him.
Trade: acquire D Logan Stanley and D Luke Schenn from for D Jacob Bryson, F Isak Rosen, a 2027 second-round pick, and a 2026 fourth-round pick
Trade:acquire F Sam Carrick from for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2026 sixth-round pick
The betting shift: Let's go Buffalo. The Sabres shore up some center depth and add to one of the best bluelines in hockey. Buffalo has moved from +2,500 to +2,200 this week for the Cup, and that's down from +3,300 last week at this time. The Sabres can push the top teams in the East and are currently tied with the Bolts for the division lead. They're +380 to win the division, down from +1,400 on Tuesday.
Trade analysis: The Sabres move on from the failed Colton Parayko trade and add a pair of opposite-handed D-men who can play tough minutes, with Logan Stanley having decent offensive upside. They have taken the same path as the Stars and Avalanche and have loaded up on the blueline with seven NHL starters. I'm buying Buffalo for the division right now, but the price is dropping. They can beat the Canes and Bolts. I love the Sabres, and they could still upgrade that top line and replace Peyton Krebs with over $5m in space. It's Buffalo in the East and Dallas/Edmonton in the West for me.
Trade: acquire F Conor Garland from for a 2028 second-round pick and a 2026 third-round pick
The betting shift: Columbus is one point out of a playoff spot, and Montreal, Pittsburgh, the Islanders, and Boston are falling. The Blue Jackets were +165 to make the playoffs one week ago. Bettors have missed the bus on the BJ's odds, but betting on one of the teams mentioned above to miss the playoffs at plus-money is the better look. The Islanders and Penguins at +200 each stand out.
Trade analysis: Conor Garland doesn't have a clear role immediately, as Boone Jenner is back and Mathieu Olivier has played well on the right side with Charlie Coyle. His six-year $36m contract kicks in next year. His ceiling is likely 60 points, and he could shine in the playoffs as a gritty forward who plays bigger than he is.
Trade: acquire F Warren Foegele and a 2026 third-round pick* from for a 2026 second-round pick and a 2026 third-round pick*
The betting shift: Ottawa is four points out of the final playoff spot and is currently +120 (45.5%) to make the playoffs, with MoneyPuck putting them at 44.9%. The Sens have the 12th-most difficult schedule down the stretch.
Trade analysis: Warren Foegele is under contract for one more season at $3.5m, and the winger could fit on any of the top three lines in Ottawa with Claude Giroux, Michael Amadio, and Ridley Greig all playing on the right side. It's an improvement, but one that isn't moving the betting needle. Having him for a full season next year is a bonus because he can contribute in a middle-six role.
Trade: acquire F Michael Bunting from for a 2026 third-round pick
The betting shift: The Stars have slowly crept up to +1,700 to win it all, and the additions of Michael Bunting for bottom-six depth and Tyler Myers for a third pair have made this team better. They are six points out of first and will likely play host to the Wild, but this is a team that I'm buying in the West.
Trade analysis: Bunting will help a team that has little depth on their third line right now with injuries, and the pesky forward will step right in to that role. He is a good agitator and draws penalties. I like him more than Nic Roy at a better price, but Bunting is a rental. Nashville is still winning and three points out of playoff spot while its front office is selling everything.
Trade: acquire F Nick Roy from for a 2027 first-round pick and a 2026 fifth-round pick
The betting shift: The Avalanche are not going to get shorter on their already paper-thing +280 odds to win the Cup. It does make them a deeper team down the middle without subtracting from their current lineup, and if you want to bet on the Avs in any market, I'd wait until Friday night, as it's going to be tough for their odds to get much shorter than they already are.
Trade analysis: The Leafs pull off a big win, and the Avs get some center depth that was desperately needed, and something they might have been willing to overspend on. I think it's too much. Roy was pretty unnoticeable with decent minutes (14+ per game) and had 20 points in 59 games. He will not be missed in Toronto, but maybe Colorado has a better plan for him than Craig Berube did. The Avs have gotten deeper at center and on the blueline, but might still be in the market for a top-six winger with over $6 million in current cap space.
Trade: acquire F Jason Dickinson (50% retained) and F Colton Dach from for F Andrew Mangiapane and a conditional 2027 first-round pick
The betting shift: The Oilers were sitting at +500 to win the division, down from +700 after the Connor Murphy trade, while their +1,100 outright odds remain unchanged. I'm still a buyer of the Oilers as the Golden Knights are going to blow the division.
Trade analysis: Edmonton picked up a shutdown center in Jason Dickinson while getting 50% of his salary retained. It's not a goalie, but the additions of Murphy and Dickinson make this a better defensive team. Colton Dach might struggle to be an everyday player, but there is some upside hidden in there. The Pacific division is still up for grabs.
The Oilers are not left with much cap space and will have to get creative if they want to bring in more bodies.
The Hawks are stockpiling picks, which I'm sure is pissing off Connor Bedard.
Trade: acquire D Nick Blankenburg from for a 2027 fifth-round pick
The betting shift: The Colorado Avalanche can't get any shorter on their Cup outright odds at +280. It's a silly number considering how hard it is to win 16 games in the NHL playoffs while avoiding bad variance and injuries. They are +150 to win the West and -4,000 to win their division. I'd love for them to make one more move, have the market shift, and bet against them. I already love the current Stars and Oilers prices.
Trade analysis: How do the Calgary Flames end up selling to acquire MacKenzie Weegar, while the Colorado Avalanche land an offensive defenseman like Nick Blankenburg for just a fifth-round pick?
Blankenburg is having a career year with 21 points in 49 games and can contribute on the power play. Though undersized at 5-foot-9, he can comfortably handle third-pair minutes while providing offensive upside.
Colorado now boasts impressive blue-line depth for a potential playoff run, with Brett Kulak, Sam Malinski, and Blankenburg available to fill the bottom pair.
Trade: acquire D MacKenzie Weegar from for D Olli Maatta, C Jonathan Castagna, and three 2026 second-round picks
The betting shift: Utah entered Wednesday sitting 7th in the West, one point up on the Kraken, four points clear of the ninth-place Sharks, and miles back of the Wild for the third spot in the Central. They are -650 to make the playoffs compared to +120 for Seattle, which is tough to swallow considering Seattle is a point behind with a game in hand.
This trade could move that playoff market far enough where fading them might be the better option. Moneypuck has them at 85% probable to make the playoffs (-554). Outside of that market, I want nothing to do with them to win the West or the Cup.
Trade analysis: The Mammoth have added a right-shot defenseman who brings strong offensive value but can be inconsistent in his own zone. His arrival likely pushes John Marino out of a top-four role — a move that probably strengthens the overall structure. With Ian Cole and Marino outside the top four, Utah suddenly has impressive blue-line depth for a potential playoff push.
It’s remarkable what this team has accomplished this year, but winning four playoff games still feels unlikely — unless the Vegas Golden Knights continue to struggle while holding the top spot in the Pacific.
Their playoff price was already inflated, and this move may push it even higher, making a fade down the stretch the sharper angle.
MacKenzie Weegar is owed $6.25 million annually through the 2030–31 season. Jonathan Castagna has more than a point per game at Cornell this year in his third year there after being a third-round selection in 2023. It's a massive haul for Calgary for a D-man in a down season.
Trade: acquire D Tyler Myers from for a 2027 second-round pick, a 2029 fourth-round pick, and 50% salary retention
The betting shift: The Dallas Stars started the day at +1,800 to win the Cup, +850 to win the West, and +2500 to win the division. Although a bottom-pairing D-man might not move these lines, I do believe the market is too low on the Stars, who are in the same tier as the Avs for me. It's a good time to jump on Dallas futures, IMO.
Trade analysis: The Stars are the No.1 team in hockey in xGF% over the last 25 games, with the Avalanche ranking 10th. This is one of the best teams in hockey that has been incredible on the backend and just got better and didn't give up anything on the roster.
They are winning without Mikko Rantanen and Roope Hintz, with the former expected back sometime in March. It's not a blockbuster, but it's a positive trade for arguably one of the best teams in hockey that has plenty of playoff experience. I'm buying the Oilers, and I'm buying the Stars in the West.
Trade: acquire C Michael McCarron from for a 2028 second-round pick
The betting shift: The Minnesota Wild's outright price moved from +1,800 to +1,700 overnight, but that had everything to do with their win over the Lightning, more so than adding a fourth-line center.
Trade analysis: The Wild are not a serious team until they shore up their center position, as Ryan Hartman is not a No.1 center. Adding some depth is a great first step, but the second-round price seems a little steep and could mean teams have to overspend on the top-line centers available.
The Wild are still a major trade away from being considered in the same breath as the Avs and Stars.
Trade: acquire D Connor Murphy from for a 2028 second-round pick and 50% salary retention
The betting shift: The Edmonton Oilers' outright price moved from +1200 to +1100 following the trade, but their divisional outright stayed put at +700
Trade analysis: Everyone knew the Oilers needed goaltending, but bolstering the blue line at a reasonable cost with a right-shot, stay-at-home defenseman to pair with Darnell Nurse is a strong move. It addresses a key structural need and should pay dividends once they solidify the crease.
With one or two more additions, this roster is capable of getting back to the Finals. If Edmonton continues to improve, I’ll be looking to add more Connor McDavid MVP exposure and take a position on them to win the Pacific at +700.
Top targets that did not move at the NHL Trade Deadline
Robert Thomas (STL): Young, legitimate top-two center signed long term with a no-trade clause.
Vincent Trochek (NYR): Adds strong depth down the middle. Excellent in the faceoff circle and reliable on the penalty kill.
Nazem Kadri (CGY): If slotted as a No. 2 center, his impact would be similar to Trocheck’s.
Jordan Binnington (STL): His club numbers this season have been underwhelming, and I wouldn’t price him purely off his Team Canada performance.
Fading the "New Arrival" Bump Don't be surprised if a brand-name player doesn't stuff the statsheet on his first day with a new club. There is an adjustment period, and waiting a couple of games might bring the best value before backing them.
Player Prop Hunting Players moving to better teams might not have the same role they had previously. If a player goes from a top-line role and PP1 to line two and PP2, his prop projections should drop. Usage is everything.
The "Addition by Subtraction" Angle Winning for bad teams is not rewarded at this time of the year. If a team is in the market to move a key player, beating the books to some point totals and/or other future markets can be profitable. Everyone wants to bet the Over on teams making additions, but don't forget about the subtractions.
Open opportunities: There will always be more eyes (and bets) on the big-name player moving to another team in the prop market, but, like above, don't forget what the subtraction will do to the lesser team, which will likely have to fill key roles with new names. Find those names.
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The Baltimore Ravens have rarely had trouble finding ways to feature the tight end position. It has been part of the franchise's offensive identity for years. That philosophy didn't change under offensive coordinator Todd Monken. Naturally, most of the spotlight fell on stars like Mark Andrews and a rising playmaker, Isaiah Likely (when the latter was healthy), but as free agency approaches, another name quietly sits in the background. It might deserve a little more attention.
That name belongs to Charlie Kolar.
The former fourth-round selection has spent most of his four-year career serving as the third option in Baltimore's tight end room. That role doesn't always lead to eye-popping numbers. Still, when his opportunities have come, he has shown he can deliver. Over his career, he has totaled 30 receptions for 409 yards and four touchdowns.
Ten of those catches came last season, producing 142 yards and two scores. Those numbers won't dominate headlines, but they reflect something the Ravens value: reliability.
More importantly, much of Kolar's impact doesn't show up in the stat sheet. He has developed into a dependable blocker in the run game, something that matters greatly in Baltimore's physical offensive approach built around quarterback Lamar Jackson and a power rushing attack.
Charlie Kolar might be one of the more important Ravens free-agent signings that no one is talking about.
Kolar must also be part of the conversation, though. He brings a steady set of hands when the ball does come his way. That combination, blocking ability paired with trustworthy receiving skills, is harder to find in modern-day tight ends than many realize. In today's game, both at the collegiate and professional levels, many tight ends are specialists. Some excel as pass catchers but struggle as blockers. Others can seal the edge in the run game but offer little as receiving threats.
Finding a player who can handle both responsibilities is valuable, particularly for an offense that relies on versatility and formation flexibility. That's why a retention plan for Kolar could make sense.
The Ravens could very well explore outside options or search for depth in the draft, but neither path guarantees the kind of balanced skill set Kolar already provides. Just as importantly, he likely wouldn't command a significant contract on the open market.
Sometimes, the smartest roster decisions aren't the flashy ones that generate massive headlines. Sometimes, they involve keeping a dependable piece who already understands the system, the locker room, and the expectations.
If the Ravens want a cost-effective option who fits their offense and does the little things well, bringing Charlie Kolar back might quietly become one of their smartest offseason moves.
Both Embiid and rookie guard VJ Edgecombe, who is dealing with a back injury, didn't participate in Friday's practice, per the Sixers, via Aaronson.
Embiid has already missed three games with his oblique issue. He will miss at least three games based on the timeline the team provided, per Aaronson.
Embiid has appeared in only 33 of the Sixers' 62 games during their 2025-26 campaign. With 29 absences, he's awards-ineligible this season and has been for a while.
When the seven-time All-Star center's been on the court this season, he's shown why he's still valuable. He's averaging 26.6 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. He's turned in a dozen 30-plus-point performances, including a 40-piece in a Jan. 31 win against the New Orleans Pelicans.
The Sixers are 21-12 in the games Embiid has played in this season. They are 13-16 without him on the court, currently placing sixth in the Eastern Conference standings at 34-28 overall.
He was in street clothes for Philadelphia's bounce-back win over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday. His status is up in the air for Saturday when the Sixers will play the Atlanta Hawks on the road.
Edgecombe is averaging 15.3 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game in his first year out of Baylor. He and Embiid are key pieces of a Sixers squad looking to return to the postseason.
One of the Green Bay Packers' most important pending free agents this offseason is someone who could draw interest from the San Francisco 49ers.
That pending free agent is wide receiver Romeo Doubs, who is widely expected to be playing elsewhere in 2026 given the Packers' lack of cap space and crowded wide receivers room.
ESPN's Dan Graziano is expecting that to happen, also, and he predicts Doubs will land with the 49ers on a three-year, $49 million contract.
Here's Graziano's thoughts on Doubs:
Doubs is still 25 years old (turns 26 in April) and is viewed by teams as a receiver who can thrive in a number of different schemes. He could be the guy this year that you look at and say, "Wow, he got that much?" Doubs caught 55 passes for 724 yards and six touchdowns in 2025.
Predicted landing spot: San Francisco 49ers
The Niners find themselves in a precarious spot at wide receiver this offseason.
Not only is Brandon Aiyuk's days in San Francisco numbered, but both Jauan Jennings and Kendrick Bourne are pending free agents.
While Doubs wouldn't check the box of the No. 1 wide receiver the team needs, he would be a strong No. 2 option in the Niners' offense.
Doubs has posted 600 yards or more in each of the last three campaigns, including a career-high 724 in 2025. Making his production more impressive is the fact that the Packers have had a lot of mouths to feed in recent years.
With less competition for targets in San Francisco, Doubs could eat with the 49ers in 2026.
Formula 1 superstar Lewis Hamilton broke multiple records since he made his debut in 2007. The British driver became one of the best in the category, winning 105 races on the way to seven world championships with McLaren and Mercedes.
Ahead of his second season with Scuderia Ferrari, the 41-year-old broke another record. Sportico shared on X on Friday that, despite struggling during his first season with Ferrari, Hamilton set a unique record off the track. He became the first driver in Formula 1 history to earn $100 million in a single year (salary and endorsements combined).
The 19-year veteran ranked No. 11 on the site’s highest-paid athletes list of 2025. He was one of our F1 drivers included in the top 100.
Off the track, it was a banner year for Lewis Hamilton’s bank account. He became the first F1 driver to earn $100 million in a single year from his salary and endorsements.
Hamilton’s career earnings are now an estimated $880 million since his F1 rookie year.
Hamilton is widely considered the greatest driver in Formula 1 history. He is tied with Michael Schumacher with seven world titles. However, he surpassed the German legend in multiple categories. Entering the 2026 season, Hamilton holds records for wins (105), poles (104) and podiums (202).
Lewis Hamilton’s performances raised eyebrows ahead of 2026 F1 season
Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton (44) is introduced before the Las Vegas Grand Prix at Las Vegas Strip Circuit. Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
On Monday, Sky Sports’ Anthony Davidson ranked the best driver duo in the 2026 Formula 1 season. He said that Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc made a strong tandem, but Hamilton’s performances in recent years raised eyebrows.
“On paper, you would say it’s the strongest line-up, but Lewis has found things tough the last couple of years,” Davidson wrote.
Ferrari looked strong in the preseason tests. They started the season with two strong sessions, too, lining up as favorites to win the Australian Grand Prix.
We're at the buzzer of the 2026 NHL trade deadline, and the Toronto Maple Leafs are making moves. This time, with the franchise looking to sell off and retool for next year, it dealt Bobby McMann. It makes sense for a team that might not have wanted to spend large on the soon-to-be-free agent.
And as for the team that acquired him? It's an intriguing move for the Seattle Kraken, a still-building young club that has some talent that can grow together (and hey, maybe this is a Wild Card team!). Assuming they give McMann a contract, it's a low-cost way to acquire a player who could be a long-term fit.
Let's hand out some trade grades and fill you in with the details of this one:
Maple Leafs and Kraken trade details
Kraken get: C Bobby McMann
Maple Leafs get: 2027 second-round pick and a 2026 fourth-round pick
Kraken trade grade
I like this a lot. McMann is 29 years old, but he's shown he can be a depth goal-scorer with 54 total in the past three seasons. Maybe he's got more in the tank, and the return was cheap.
Now, it'd be great if the Kraken both make the playoffs and re-sign him. That'd make this trade a really good one. GRADE: B+
Maple Leafs trade grade
I mean, sure! Toronto sent away McMann and some other players to beef up draft assets. No argument here, especially if they weren't re-signing McMann. GRADE: B+
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - OCTOBER 19: Tommy DeVito #16 of the New England Patriots warms up prior to the game against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium on October 19, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Johnnie Izquierdo/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The New England Patriots and Tommy DeVito will keep working together. As was reported on Friday, the Patriots signed the restricted free agent quarterback to a two-year contract extension that will keep him in the fold through 2027.
Let’s put a grade on the Patriots’ decision to keep DeVito around.
Instant grade: Patriots re-sign QB Tommy DeVito to 2-year, $7.4M max contract
Bernd Buchmasser: More than anything, extending DeVito gives the Patriots some flexibility at their backup quarterback position, especially with Joshua Dobbs entering the final year of his contract. And who knows, we might just get a true backup quarterback competition in Foxborough this summer. | Grade: B
Matt St. Jean: You need a backup QB don’t you? Well Tommy DeVito is a backup QB at backup QB money. Hopefully we never have to think about him again until next offseason outside of a handful of kneel downs. | Grade: C
Pat Lane: The North End is rejoicing right now, but it’s hard to get excited about the backup QB. The Patriots obviously liked what they had in DeVito, both as a backup on the field and in the locker room. I wouldn’t be surprised if they brought someone in as a UDFA, but I wouldn’t assume this means that Josh Dobbs will not be back. | Grade: C-
Andrew Guindon: It’s a feel-good move for fans; DeVito and his agent, Sean Stellato, do a lot of community work around the Boston area. Although, re-signing the quarterback doesn’t necessarily move any needle. Even with both DeVito and Joshua Dobbs backing Drake Maye, I think it’s still important to bring in a rookie in April. | Grade: C
What do you think about the DeVito extension? Do you like it? Do you not? Please head to the comment section to discuss.
Over the last few days leading up to Friday’s trade deadline, there were plenty of discussions regarding the status of McMann. In fact, the 29-year-old was sat out for two straight games, along with center Scott Laughton and defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson.
McMann was arguably Toronto’s top trade candidate, as he is on an expiring contract. With that, his deal is very cheap and manageable to bring aboard.
The undrafted forward is in the last year of a two-year contract and earns $1.35 million against the salary cap. Prior to this deal, plenty of talk surrounded a potential contract extension between the Maple Leafs and McMann. If McMann doesn’t sign an extension with Seattle before July 1, the Maple Leafs will have the opportunity, alongside all 31 other NHL teams, to sign McMann.
McMann has scored 19 goals and 32 points in 60 games for Toronto this season. He’s coming off a career year where he scored 20 goals for the first time and registered 34 points.
For Seattle, McMann brings in speed to the Kraken’s middle-six forward group, or even the top line, depending on how coach Lane Lambert utilizes him.
Speaking of Lambert, he is familiar with McMann’s game as the Kraken’s bench boss was an associate coach with the Maple Leafs.
Jung Hoo Lee runs to first base during a spring training game between the San Francisco Giants and the Chicago Cubs at Scottsdale Stadium in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026. (Carlos Avila Gonzalez/S.F. Chronicle)
The San Francisco Giants are about halfway through spring training with a new manager at the helm in Tony Vitello. Plenty of attention is focused on how he'll adapt to MLB, coming from college baseball without any pro experience, but the Giants' success will hinge on how its players – familiar, young or new – can elevate this team out of mediocrity.
Here are three Giants players to keep an eye on between now and Opening Day on March 25.
OutfielderJung Hoo Lee: He left Giants camp in Scottsdale to join Team South Korea in Japan for the World Baseball Classic at the beginning of the month, so his spring work will primarily happen on the global stage – for however long as the Korean team can last in the WBC. He went 2-for-4 with a walk and a run, playing both center and right field in Korea's pool round win against the Czech Republic on Thursday.
This is a critical year for Lee to settle into MLB life. He spent a majority of his rookie year recovering from a shoulder he dislocated running into the Oracle outfield wall in May 2024. Last season, the workload and culture shock – differences in schedule, travel, language, to name a few – overcame him. He lost strength, and about 12 pounds over the course of last year. Lee was given more days off in the second half to get him off his feet, and his production in the season's final months improved as a result.
The Giants are moving him from center field to right with the addition of Harrison Bader. Lee is also changing his sleep and eating schedule, saying early in spring he has to "eat a lot," and perhaps wake up earlier, grab breakfast and go back to sleep after a night game.
Lee will be thrust into a competitive atmosphere early this year while participating in the WBC. He turned an ankle in Korea's last game, but isn't expected to miss games. It's worth watching to see how much he's been rejuvenated.
First base/designated hitterBryce Eldridge: Can the Giants' top prospect make the team? He has the highest ceiling an organization could ask for, not least power that, if realized, could make him one of the game's premier hitters.
San Francisco Giants prospect Bryce Eldridge pauses at home plate during the first inning of a spring training baseball game against the Los Angeles Dodgers Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, in Scottsdale, Ariz. (Ross D. Franklin/Associated Press)
The rub is that he and Rafael Devers play the same positions – DH and first – and it has yet to be seen if Eldridge is ready to take the league by storm, or if he could benefit from a longer runway with additional time in Triple-A, where he has played just 66 games while posting decent numbers.
If Eldridge is going to lock up a lineup spot, spring camp is the place to do it. He hit an opposite-field two-run double with a 113 mph exit velocity in Wednesday's win against the Seattle Mariners. He has smoked the ball a fair amount all spring, with a home run and three doubles. But the strikeouts are still a little high – he already has seven in 23 plate appearances.
Pitcher Blade Tidwell:After coming to the Giants from the Mets at the trade deadline last season, he's been a standout this spring, flashing strikeout stuff. But then he had a hiccup in his outing against Team USA on Tuesday, surrendering two home runs and five runs total.
Pitcher Blade Tidwell pitches in relief during a spring training game between the San Francisco Giants and the Seattle Mariners at Peoria Stadium in Peoria, Ariz., on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026. (Carlos Avila Gonzalez/S.F. Chronicle)
Competition for bullpen jobs is practically wide-open, though the field has narrowed slightly with a rash of injuries. Most recently, lefty Reiver Sanmartin has a right hip flexor injury that will take him out of competing for Team Colombia in the WBC. With Erik Miller also dealing with a back injury, the Giants may need to look deep for a lefty option; Juan Sanchez is one that nearly broke camp with the team last year and has pitched well this spring.
To round out the pen, the Giants need healthy arms, so Tidwell has an opportunity. He joins Trevor McDonald, Gregory Santos, Caleb Kilian, Will Bednar and Michael Fulmer among righties competing for a role. Tidwell also has close ties with Vitello after pitching for him in college at Tennessee.
The White House hosted a powerhouse roundtable this morning and is set to bring a mix of industry stakeholders and notable figures on Friday.
Trump is serving as chair of the roundtable, with vice chairs Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and New York Yankees president Randy Levine. They will welcome the following list of confirmed guests, according to USA TODAY Sports.
Texas Athletics holds a well-earned reputation as one of the premier programs in the SEC and across college sports, which makes its absence from the White House roundtable all the more puzzling. Neither President Jim Davis nor Athletics Director Chris Del Conte was at the table for one of the most consequential conversations in the future of collegiate athletics.
Among those attending the roundtable from the Southeastern Conference are Commissioner Greg Sankey, former Oklahoma athletic director Joe Castiglione, Tennessee president Donde Plowman, Georgia president Jere Morehead, and former North Carolina and Texas coach Mack Brown, though he is currently formally connected to Texas.
Texas is well represented with Texas Tech's booster and Chairman of their Board of Regents, Cody Campbell, in attendance, along with U.S. Senator Ted Cruz.
The Vancouver Canucks' rebuild began months ago when they traded away Quinn Hughes.
They've already dealt Conor Garland and Tyler Myers before Friday's NHL trade deadline, too. The question remains as the rumor mill swirls whether Elias Pettersson, Evander Kane, Teddy Blueger or anyone else will be moved from the Canucks to a new team.
Vancouver is going to want to fully tank the rest of this season. They've loaded up on draft picks, and their own pick could end up the No. 1 spot in a strong NHL Draft class.
Canucks live rumors, news, updates at trade deadline
3:25 p.m. ET: The Canucks got one move in at the buzzer apparently. David Kampf is heading to the Capitals, according to TSN's Darren Dreger. And another: Lukas Reichel to the Bruins.
3 p.m. ET: The deadline has arrived. News of deals can still arrive after this time, so stay tuned.
2:40 p.m. ET: Crickets with just 20 minutes until the deadline.
2 p.m. ET: The Canucks have claimed Curtis Douglas off waivers from the Lightning, according to Chris Johnston.
1 p.m. ET: Two hours until the trade deadline. No moves by the Canucks yet on Friday.
11:50 a.m. ET: Nothing major has been reported in the last few hours with just three hours and change until the deadline.
11 a.m. ET: With four hours until the deadline, things are quiet on the Elias Pettersson front. His $11.6 million due each season for the next five years will make a trade tough.
North Carolina's star freshman and a projected top-five pick in next June's draft, Caleb Wilson, is done for the season after fracturing his right thumb (which requires surgery to repair) while throwing down a dunk in practice on Thursday, North Carolina announced Friday.
Wilson had missed the last six Tar Heel games with a fractured left hand but was working his way back into the rotation when the injury occurred, coach Hubert Davis had told reporters.
Wilson is expected to be cleared to return to basketball activity during the pre-draft process, reports Shams Charania of ESPN. This injury should not impact his draft status.
Wilson, a 6'10" forward, was in the midst of a standout season in Carolia blue, averaging 19.8 points, 9.4 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game.
Caleb Wilson was incredible today vs Kansas
24 points 7 rebounds 4 assists 4 steals 9-12 FG
High level motor with NBA athleticism, length, shotmaking, just an incredible performance today pic.twitter.com/IwBQ7B2tOc
Most pundits, as well as front office people NBC Sports has spoken with, have Wilson fourth on draft boards, and maybe the one guy who could crack the "big three" at the top of the board (AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson and Cameron Boozer). His athleticism and power have impressed scouts, and head-to-head he has outplayed Boozer and Peterson when their teams met this season. While there are questions about his game — can he develop a 3-point shot, can he clean up some things defensively — Wilson is considered an elite prospect who almost certainly will be drafted in the top five next June.
Leeds United Winger Splits Opinion After Difficult Night In Italy: Does His Dip Create a Bigger Problem?
The latest reports filtering back from Italy don’t make for easy reading for Jack Harrison. Sport Witness reported optimism in Florence last month surrounding the winger’s arrival at Fiorentina on loan from Elland Road, with Tottenham‘s Manor Solomon joining the same club.
Harrison began brightly, coming off the bench and grabbing an assist against Torino in a 2-2 draw before earning a regular starting spot. He featured against Como and then started the important 1-0 victory over Pisa, and it looked like his loan spell was finally finding its feet.
Jack Harrison Faces Harsh Italian Criticism During Fiorentina Loan Spell
The tide turned, however, following a bruising 3-0 loss to Udinese. Harrison started that match but left observers distinctly unimpressed. Italian journalist Ricardo Trevisani, speaking to Cronache Di Spogliatoio and relayed by ViolaNews, dismissed Harrison as irrelevant, claiming Solomon operates at a far higher level.
“Harrison is an irrelevant player; he doesn’t move anything; Solomon is much better. If yesterday was worse than usual, it’s because Dodo and Solomon were missing, who, along with Kean, are the most in-form players in Fiorentina.”
Meanwhile, La Nazione’s Stefano Cecchi, speaking to Toscana TV via FiorentinaNews, cited Harrison among the main problems against Udinese, even suggesting he sets a lower standard than the gifted Albert Gudmundsson.
“I hope it’s due to the change in formation. The problem is that nothing worked. Harrison, the defence. I won’t criticise Rugani, he played so poorly that it’s not worth talking about.”
Fiorentina, unexpectedly battling relegation from Serie A, are dealing with a crisis-level atmosphere right now, and naturally, the scrutiny intensifies on every player who fails to deliver. Fiorentina hold a permanent purchase option for Harrison, but that clause only kicks in if they manage to stay in Serie A.
Does Harrison’s Fiorentina Dip Create a Bigger Problem for Leeds United?
FLORENCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 26: Jack Harrison of ACF Fiorentina in action during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between ACF Fiorentina and Jagiellonia Bialystok at Stadio Artemio Franchi on February 26, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
This is the question Leeds followers should genuinely consider. Leeds, now back in the Premier League after winning the Championship last season, currently sit 15th; safe for now, but hardly comfortable. From Elland Road’s perspective, the Harrison situation carries a real edge of concern.
At 29, the England Under-21 international will enter the summer with a contract running until June 2028, still representing a decent asset on paper. However, an uninspiring loan return strips value from him considerably, both in terms of his price tag and his standing in the squad.
The more pointed issue is this: Leeds United loaned Harrison out partly because he didn’t fit Daniel Farke’s plans for top-flight football. A disappointing Serie A spell doesn’t change that underlying problem. It actually worsens it, because the news at the end of this season could well involve a winger who returns with reduced market interest and no obvious path into the first team.
Selling Harrison for a respectable fee before or during this window always looked like the cleaner solution. As the club continue tracking his fortunes in Florence, they should watch closely, because a failed loan affects the seller’s bargaining position more than people often acknowledge.
“It’s the excitement of just being on ice with two blades. When I’m shooting, my heart rate goes up, and just the excitement of shooting, whether I hit it or not.”
That’s how RJ Urtula, Forward/Defenseman for the Seattle Sled Ice Hockey team, describes the thrill of the sport.
Sled Hockey is gradually changing its name to Para Ice Hockey, as it is called in the Paralympics. Para Ice Hockey is designed for athletes with physical impairments in the lower body.
Players compete while seated on specially designed sled hockey sleds, using two sled hockey sticks to maneuver and strike the puck.
“Imagine like regular stand-up hockey, except for you’re sitting down. And it’s the same rules, the same ice rink,” Urtula shared.
In 2024, the team won Tier 2 at the 2024 Hendrickson Festival in Blaine, MN.
Players thrive on the hard-hitting and fast play.
“I have a fairly painful condition but when I’m on the ice, I don’t feel any pain. I am focused on the game. I’m enjoying the camaraderie of the people around me and just take it from there,” Brian Baker, Forward, said.
“I have something called complex regional pain syndrome, which makes it really, really difficult to walk and stand and weight bear, so it’s really when I get in the sled I’m not weight bearing on my legs, so the pain is really not there so much until I get out,” John Liston, Goalie said. “When I get out, it’s back to normal, but when you’re in the sled, it’s like I can be free. I can be that athlete again that I was when I was younger, and it’s just an amazing feeling.”
For Defenseman Leah Cupps, playing on the team continues her military ethos.
“I am a former Marine, and one of the things about the Marine Corps that is the greatest thing ever is the sense of community and esprit de corps that we have, that beautiful companionship that we build with our fellow teammates,” she said. “When I got out of the military, and I got injured, I was searching for something to fill that void, and I was directed to sled hockey, and it absolutely is exactly what I needed”.
In fact, military veterans have an afinity Kraken ice hockey. There are currently eight veterans on the squad, representing US Marines, Navy, and Air Force.
With the Paralympics just starting in Italy, the team will be cheering for former teammate Nicole Zaino (from 2019 to 2023), who will compete not in ice hockey, but Para Nordic Skiing.
The Kraken’s practices are open to the public at the Kraken Community Iceplex. Their regular season extends through April, leading to the Nationals in Dallas, April 30 to May 3.
The Oregon Ducks baseball team opens Big Ten Conference play Friday afternoon as they head over to Purdue to face an 8-3 Boilermaker team.
Oregon comes into the series with a 10-2 record, but the Ducks suffered a 10-6 loss in their last game against the Oregon State Beavers at PK Park. As for Purdue, it is on a six-game winning streak.
The Ducks will go with ace Will Sanford on the mound, who has a 2-0 record and a 0.00 earned run average. In his last start, Sanford had a no-decision, going just 3.2 innings and allowing 2 hits in the 7-2 win over Arizona. To round out the series, Oregon will go with Collin Clarke (2-0, 2.70 ERA) on Saturday and Cal Scolari (2-0, 0.64 ERA) on the mound Sunday.
Purdue will go with right-hander Cole Van Assen (1-0, 4.15 ERA) in the series opener and then will throw out a couple of lefties in Zach Erdman (0-0, 4.76 ERA) and Jarvis Evans (2-0, 4.02 ERA) this weekend.
This will be the Ducks' first conference series of the year where they will be defending their 2025 regular-season league title. It will also be Oregon's first-ever trip to West Lafayette to battle the Boilermakers on the diamond. It's also a bit of a homecoming for Duck head coach Mark Wasikowski, who coached Purdue from 2017-19 before taking the Oregon job.
First pitch is at 1:05 pm PST and will be streamed on BigTenPlus.com.
Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.
“Guard Augustas Marčiulionis (the son of NBA great Sarunas Marciulionis) has left the South Bay Lakers via a buyout with the NBA G League to pursue an opportunity overseas,” South Bay stated on X/Twitter.
Marciulionis joined the Lakers last summer by way of an Exhibit 10 deal following a standout collegiate career at Saint Mary’s (he helped the Gaels reach the NCAA tournament four consecutive times, earned two WCC Player of the Year nods, and two first-team All-WCC selections).
After failing to make the Lakers’ opening night roster, Marciulionis began competing with South Bay in the NBA’s minor league. Marciulionis, a high-IQ point guard who rarely attempts to force the issue, averaged 5.4 points, 3.4 assists, and 1.9 rebounds in nine outings with South Bay, shooting 41.3% from the field and 40% from beyond the arc.
The Vilnius, Lithuania native hasn’t appeared in an NBA contest this season. However, with the right opportunity in the foreseeable future, Marciulionis could find himself receiving action in the big leagues.
For now, though, the young pro will continue his professional career overseas.
Things have been quiet in college football for some time now, with spring football on the horizon and last season far behind us. The Oregon Ducks are gearing up to send numerous prospects to the NFL and working on their recruiting class, the typical list of duties during this time of year.
There is no doubt that fans have been starving for something fresh and exciting to happen, and that’s exactly what they were treated to earlier today. The 2027 schedule is starting to be built out, and it was revealed that the Ducks will take on a new opponent this season that they’ve never faced before in school history.
The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers will head to Eugene to play the Ducks in an early-season matchup that will help round out their non-conference schedule. Oregon will host the Hilltoppers on Sept. 18, 2027, with the time being revealed at a later date.
Who knows how the game will turn out, because this game will be played after the departure of several key Ducks players. There is a lot of uncertainty surrounding the circumstances of the game, but for now Oregon fans should just appreciate a break from the monotony of the college football offseason.
Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.
Another member of the Houston Texans' secondary is back for the 2026 season.
According to reports, the Texans plan to re-sign safety M.J. Stewart to a one-year extension, thus keeping him around through the 2026 campaign. Stewart, 31, started four games at safety last season for the Texans after Houston released C.J. Gardner-Johnson. He had 25 tackles in nine games before suffering a season-ending quad injury.
Stewart is one of the Texans' most important players on special teams, mostly seeing success on kickoff and punt coverage. He was solid in coverage when asked to start, but is better suited as a rotational option and quality backup.
The Texans plan to re-sign safety M.J. Stewart to a one-year deal, per source.
The eight-year vet had 25 tackles and two pass deflections in nine games (four starts). pic.twitter.com/yepxzDqlXn
The Texans enter the offseason with a need at strong safety opposite Calen Bullock. Houston should be in the market for another defensive back, even with the return of Stewart and rookie Jaylen Reed. The other option could come in either free agency or the upcoming NFL draft.
SAN JOSE, Calif. — The San Jose Sharks signed goalie Alex Nedeljkovic to a two-year, $6 million contract extension before the trade deadline on Friday.
The 30-year-old Nedeljkovic was a pending free agent and could have been dealt away but now will remain in San Jose to team with Yaroslav Askarov in net for the near future.
Nedeljkovic has an 11-9-2 record with a 2.83 goals against average and .902 save percentage in 26 games in his first season with the Sharks. He has won six of his last seven starts with a .935 save percentage and 1.99 goals allowed per game in those outings.
Nedeljkovic is in his ninth season in the NHL and has an 85-69-29 career record with a 2.97 goals against average and .903 save percentage with Carolina, Detroit, Pittsburgh and San Jose.
Nedeljkovic is the second player the Sharks signed to an extension this week leading up to the trade deadline. San Jose signed forward Kiefer Sherwood to a five-year, $28.75 million extension on Wednesday, six weeks after acquiring him in a trade from Vancouver.
The Sharks have won three straight games and entered the day three points out of a playoff spot in the Western Conference.
Biadasz lands with the Chargers, who finished 11-6 last season and lost in the AFC wild-card round. The Chargers had a dire need for help on the interior offensive line, and Biadasz represents an immediate upgrade. Los Angeles also had the most cap space in the NFL.
Biadasz, 28, signed a three-year deal worth $30 million with the Commanders in March 2024. He started two seasons for Washington and was excellent in 2024. His play took a step back in 2025, but he was far from a liability. He was scheduled to make over $8 million in 2026 from the Commanders before his release.
Biadasz was supposed to visit the Chicago Bears this week. It's uncertain if that visit happened. It's expected to be a busy free-agent market for centers, so Washington did Biadasz a favor in releasing him ahead of free agency, so he could pick his next team before the market was flooded.
The #Chargers make a splash before free agency, agreeing to terms with C Tyler Biadasz on a 3-year deal worth $30M, per The Insiders.
The Commanders' plans at center are a bit of a mystery, although many believe veteran Nick Allegretti will get a shot. Allegretti enters his third season in Washington in 2026 and recently signed a one-year extension. When Biadasz missed time last season, Allegretti relieved him. The Commanders could go with Allegretti and add a center in the middle rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft. With a contract extension on deck for left tackle Laremy Tunsil, don't expect Washington to pay at the top of the market for a center.
LOS ANGELES — Bo Horvat scored an incredible goal for the New York Islanders off a faceoff taken with just a second left in the second period of their game against the New York Islanders on Thursday night.
Both teams and the fans in the Kings’ downtown arena were left stunned when Jean-Gabriel Pageau sharply won the draw straight back to Horvat, who one-timed a perfect shot through slot traffic, beating Darcy Kuemper.
The Isles didn’t even need the full final second: Video review confirmed Horvat’s 26th goal of the season had indeed beaten the buzzer, and the officials even put 0.3 seconds back on the clock.
The goal was New York’s first of the night, trimming Los Angeles’ lead to 3-1. The Kings weren’t shaken, however: Alex Laferriere put LA ahead 4-1 with a power-play goal early in the third period.
Report: Tottenham Hotspur make Igor Tudor decision after disastrous start
Tottenham Weigh Igor Tudor Future as Robbie Keane Emerges in Managerial Discussion
Tottenham Hotspur find themselves wrestling with a familiar problem, uncertainty in the dugout. According to reporting from TeamTalk, Igor Tudor’s brief spell in charge has quickly come under scrutiny after a damaging run of results that has left Spurs hovering dangerously close to the Premier League relegation zone.
What began as a short term attempt to steady a drifting season now appears to be prompting fresh debate inside the club’s hierarchy.
Results Deepen Concern at Spurs
Tudor arrived with a straightforward brief, stabilise Tottenham after the dismissal of Thomas Frank and guide the club safely through the remainder of the campaign. Instead, the early evidence has proved troubling.
Photo IMAGO
Three defeats in three matches have pushed Tottenham towards the bottom of the table, with an aggregate scoreline of 9-3 underlining defensive vulnerability and attacking frustration. The most recent setback, a 3-1 home defeat against Crystal Palace, has intensified concern among decision makers.
The report indicates that figures within the club fear the appointment may have been a misjudgement by ENIC, Tottenham’s ownership group. The idea of a short term caretaker was intended to buy time until summer, allowing Spurs to assess long term managerial candidates and potential structural changes behind the scenes.
Football rarely allows that luxury. Poor results tend to accelerate every conversation.
Robbie Keane Returns to the Conversation
One name repeatedly surfacing in those discussions is Robbie Keane. The former Tottenham striker, remembered fondly in North London for his goals and charisma, has quietly built a coaching reputation in recent years.
His work with Ferencvaros, and previously with Maccabi Tel Aviv, has earned positive reviews within European football circles. TeamTalk reports that Keane had already been mentioned internally before Tudor’s appointment.
At the time, the Irishman was asked about the possibility of returning to Tottenham. His response was characteristically fiery, ending with him walking out of a television interview when the subject was raised.
That moment now feels more intriguing in hindsight.
Sources in the report close to the situation suggest Keane would “love” the chance to manage Spurs if the opportunity emerged. The emotional connection between player and club often carries weight in these moments, particularly when supporters are searching for something familiar in turbulent times.
Short Term Plan Under Review
Tottenham’s leadership originally hoped Tudor would guide the team until summer. That would allow a calmer evaluation of candidates and perhaps broader organisational changes.
Yet football clubs rarely operate according to tidy timelines. With Spurs now only one point above the relegation places, the urgency surrounding every match has increased dramatically.
A Champions League meeting with Atletico Madrid looms, followed by a Premier League clash against Liverpool. These fixtures could shape the immediate future of Tottenham’s season and potentially the fate of Tudor himself.
Behind the scenes, contingency plans appear to be forming.
Keane may not be the only candidate being considered, but his name entering the conversation reflects both Tottenham’s current uncertainty and their desire for a figure who understands the club’s identity.
In North London, the next few weeks may determine far more than just results on the pitch.
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
For Spurs supporters, this situation feels painfully familiar. A managerial change designed to calm the waters has instead created fresh turbulence. Three defeats and nine goals conceded in quick succession inevitably spark anxiety among fans who have watched the club drift through several strategic resets in recent seasons.
From a supporter perspective, the idea of Robbie Keane returning carries a powerful emotional pull. He represents an era when Tottenham felt vibrant, attacking and expressive. Those qualities have often felt absent during recent managerial experiments.
There is also curiosity about Keane as a coach. His work in Hungary and Israel suggests a manager willing to develop players and encourage attacking football. Spurs supporters tend to respond positively to that philosophy.
Yet the risk remains clear. Appointing a former club hero can energise a fanbase, but it can also place enormous pressure on someone still developing as a manager. Tottenham supporters would remember how similar moves have unfolded elsewhere in football.
The bigger question concerns strategy. Changing managers again before summer might solve a short term crisis, but it could also deepen the perception that Tottenham lack a coherent footballing direction.
For fans watching from the stands, stability has become the most valuable commodity of all.
West Indies spinner Akeal Hosein took to social media to express frustration over the team's delayed return from India after their exit from the 2026 T20 World Cup, even jokingly asking football star Cristiano Ronaldo to "rescue" him. International travel has been disrupted since tensions escalated following the conflict involving the USA, Israel and Iran, leading to flight cancellations and heightened alerts at several airports in West Asia.
After their T20 World Cup campaign ended in the subcontinent, the West Indies players and support staff have faced difficulties travelling back home because of cancelled flights linked to the situation in West Asia. The development came despite Cricket West Indies (CWI) stating on Thursday that it was working to arrange a charter flight for the squad that could take them home within 24 hours.
“At this point, I'm better off asking Cristiano Ronaldo to send the jet and come rescue me, yes?" Hosein said on X.
The Caribbean side has been in Kolkata since their tournament ended with a five-wicket defeat to India at Eden Gardens last Sunday. Earlier on Thursday, West Indies head coach Darren Sammy also sought clarity from the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding the team’s travel plans.
Soon after, CWI issued a statement confirming that efforts were underway to arrange the team’s return.
“During a high-level call earlier today involving CWI, ICC officials, a representative of team management, and a representative of the players, it was confirmed that a charter flight is currently being arranged for the team’s departure from India, with the expected departure scheduled within the next 24 hours," the CWI said in a statement. The departure time remains subject to final air traffic approvals. The team remains safe and well as arrangements continue to be finalized," the governing body added.
“CWI has remained in constant dialogue with the players, team management, and the International Cricket Council (ICC) since their last match against India. While the situation remains complex and fluid due to international airspace restrictions arising from security concerns in the Gulf region, CWI assures the public that every precaution is being taken to ensure the safe return of the team to the Caribbean," said CWI.
There is also a possibility that several players may not travel back immediately and could stay in India to join their respective franchises for the upcoming Indian Premier League.
Mbappé in Paris but won't attend Parc des Princes—here's why
Mbappé won't watch the PSG match—now we know why
Mbappé in Paris but won't attend Parc des Princes—here's why
Kylian Mbappé is in Paris these days to have his knee injury examined. However, the French star won't be at Parc des Princes tonight to witness the showdown between his two former clubs, PSG and Monaco.
The France captain took some time to sign autographs for young fans as he left his hotel, including one PSG supporter who asked if he'd be attending Friday's Ligue 1 fixture: "No, Real are playing," explained the Madrid striker.
Real Madrid are indeed away at Celta Vigo at 9:00pm—a crucial match in the title race.
Ameenah, Anaz and his friends Credit: Ameenah Rasheed
NEED TO KNOW
A mom surprised her autistic son with suite tickets to a Lakers game for his 19th birthday
She initially told him they would watch the game from a restaurant near the arena
The heartfelt reveal, shared on TikTok, shows the teen’s priceless reaction
For Anaz, his 19th birthday started with what seemed like a simple plan: dinner at a restaurant near the arena to watch his beloved Los Angeles Lakers play on TV. What he didn’t know was that his mom had something much bigger waiting just a few steps away.
The emotional surprise, captured on TikTok by his mother Ameenah Rasheed (@ameenahrasheed), shows the teen and his friends believing they would watch the game from outside the stadium before learning they actually had suite tickets inside. “I’m a single mom, so I try to make special moments happen for Anaz because outside of our family, I’m really all he has,” Rasheed tells PEOPLE.
The now-widely shared video opens as Rasheed leads her son and his friends through the area surrounding the arena, where crowds of Lakers fans and pregame festivities fill the streets. The TikTok’s text overlay reads, “he has no idea I got him and his friends suite tickets to see the Lakers game for his birthday.”
Rasheed managed to pull the surprise together at the last minute after spotting the tickets online. “I found the tickets last minute on Gametime and made it happen,” she says, explaining that Anaz is a devoted fan who especially loves LeBron James and Luka Dončić.
Basketball has long been one of Anaz’s biggest passions, and Rasheed says his knowledge of the sport runs deep. “He has memorized stats about the entire Lakers roster and most of the NBA,” she shares.
Before the reveal, however, Rasheed had to stay committed to the plan even as her son talked about how much he wished he could actually attend the game. In the video, Anaz expresses gratitude that he and his friends could at least watch the matchup live on TV nearby.
Hearing that moment was bittersweet for the mom behind the camera. “I kept thinking, ‘Should I tell him now?’ because I felt bad watching him and his friends see all the Lakers fan festivities outside the arena and say how much they wished they could go to the game,” she recalls.
Still, Rasheed stayed focused on the surprise she knew was coming. “Seeing their excitement build made the surprise even better,” she says.
When the moment finally arrived, the reaction wasn’t instant. Rasheed explains that the group initially needed a second to process what she had just said.
Ameenah, Anaz, and his friends Credit: Ameenah Rasheed
“At first they didn’t process what I was saying, so their reaction was delayed and I had to repeat it a few times that we had suite tickets to the Lakers game,” she says. “Once it finally clicked, their reaction was priceless, and the whole moment felt magical.”
The video, which Rasheed also shared alongside a clip from her son’s account (@alrguysummerdude), struck a chord with viewers online, especially parents of children with autism. Many commenters celebrated Anaz’s excitement, while others shared their own experiences raising children on the spectrum.
“The response has been overwhelmingly positive and supportive,” Rasheed says, adding that the messages have been deeply meaningful.
She notes that Anaz was nonverbal at age 3 and faced challenges in school while growing up. “It was touching to see people comment on how well he’s doing now,” she says.
Rasheed also noticed that some parents were particularly moved by how comfortable Anaz appeared during the loud, high-energy game environment. She says those observations meant a lot after years spent helping her son adapt to new spaces.
“I’ve spent years helping him adjust to different environments, so those comments meant a lot,” she shares.
Today, Anaz is now a freshman at California State University, Northridge, and Rasheed says their bond has only strengthened through the challenges they’ve faced together.
“Going through adversity together has only made our mother-son bond stronger,” she says. “I am incredibly proud of the young man he is becoming.”
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For Anaz, the night carried one more unforgettable moment after the surprise itself. Rasheed says that when the Lakers acknowledged him and wished him a happy birthday in the comments of the video, it made the experience even more meaningful.
“Seeing the Lakers acknowledge him on the video made the entire experience even more unforgettable for him,” she says. “It’s a moment he will remember for the rest of his life.”
Notre Dame women’s basketball is back on the court today, as it will take on the NC State Wolfpack in the third-round of the women’s ACC Tournament.
The Irish are coming off a victory over Miami, one that saw star guard Hannah Hidalgo dominating again. She became ACC single-season steals leader, a record that should continue to grow as Notre Dame is still on the court.
Follow along below for live updates, highlights and analysis of Notre Dame women’s ACC Tournament game against the NC State Wolfpack.
— Notre Dame Women's Basketball (@ndwbb) March 6, 2026
No change here as the Irish trot out the same starters as the previous game. The five women carry the team, and they’ll need another big effort out of this group to advance to the next round.
Contact/Follow us @IrishWireND on X (Formerly Twitter), and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Notre Dame news, notes, and opinions.
The Buffalo Bills will pay for their stadium with, among other things, Personal Seat Licenses. It's a fancy term for paying for the right to pay for season tickets.
And Bills fans are paying big money for that privilege.
Via Michael Petro of the Buffalo News, the Bills have raised nearly $260 million in PSLs by selling more than 53,300 licenses. The total amount surpassed the stated goal of $225 million by 15 percent.
More than 1,300 PSLs remain available.
Obviously, $260 million is just a slice of the total price tag of $2.1 billion. But it's better for those who will be using the facility to bear the cost of it than local taxpayers who'll never attend a game there or watch one on TV.
The best outcome would be for the teams to pay for their own stadiums. As long, however, as someone else is willing to pay the bill, why not let them?
Jordon Ibe was arrested at Luton Airport on 30 January [Tess De La Mare]
A footballer has pleaded not guilty to assaulting a woman, causing her actual bodily harm.
Former Bournemouth and Liverpool player Jordon Ibe, 30, is accused of attacking the woman in Lambeth, south London, on 14 December.
The former England under-21 international, from Chislehurst, south-east London, was bailed by Croydon magistrates to appear again for trial on 14 July.
Ibe joined Liverpool in 2012, making 58 appearances in all competitions, before spells at Derby County, Birmingham City and 92 appearances for AFC Bournemouth between 2016 and 2020.
The Metropolitan Police previously said he was arrested at Luton Airport on 30 January.
The winger played two years of non-league football before moving to his current team Lokomotiv Sofia in the Bulgarian First League in November 2025.
Formula 1 returns this weekend with the Australian Grand Prix kicking off the 2026 season, beginning another 24-race calendar that will stretch across five continents and include three stops in the United States.
The first race of the year takes place at Melbourne's Albert Park circuit, a temporary street-style layout that has traditionally delivered unpredictable races. The Australian Grand Prix is scheduled for Saturday, March 7, with lights out set for 11:00 p.m. Eastern Time for viewers in North America.
How To Stream The 2026 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix
Fans in the United States have several streaming options this year. Apple TV+ now carries live coverage of the championship, including practice sessions, qualifying, and the race itself. The event is also available through the sport's official streaming services, F1 TV Pro and F1 TV Premium.
For viewers catching up after the fact, Apple TV will also offer full session replays, highlight packages, and a condensed "Race in 30" format designed to recap the event without spoilers.
The service is available through the Apple TV app on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV devices, smart televisions from brands including Samsung and LG, as well as streaming devices such as Roku and Amazon Fire TV. Gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox also support the app.
A subscription costs $12.99 per month in the U.S., with a seven-day free trial available for new users.
Image: Formula 1
2026 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix Storylines
The Melbourne race begins a season expected to be one of the more competitive in recent years. New technical regulations take effect this season, forcing teams to redesign their cars and power units, which will reshape the competitive order across the grid.
Several storylines carry into the new season. McLaren's Lando Norris enters the year as the reigning world champion after claiming the 2025 title, while Red Bull driver Max Verstappen begins his campaign to regain the championship he held for multiple seasons earlier in the decade. Teams throughout the paddock are also introducing heavily revised cars to meet the new rules.
After Melbourne, the series heads to China and Japan before beginning the Middle East portion of the calendar with races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, although those races could be in jeopardy due to the conflict in Iran. The championship then moves through Europe during the summer months, including traditional stops such as Monaco, Silverstone, and Spa-Francorchamps.
Image: Formula 1
2026 Formula 1 Calendar
March 5-7: Qatar Airways Australian Grand Prix
March 12-15: Heineken Chinese Grand Prix
March 26-29: Aramco Japanese Grand Prix
April 10-12: Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix
April 17-19: STC Saudi Arabian Grand Prix
May 1-3: Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix
May 22-24: Lenovo Canadian Grand Prix
June 5-7: Monaco Grand Prix
June 12-14: MSC Cruises Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix
June 26-28: Lenovo Austrian Grand Prix
July 3-5: Pirelli British Grand Prix
July 17-19: Belgian Grand Prix
July 24-26: AWS Hungarian Grand Prix
Aug. 21-23: Heineken Dutch Grand Prix
Sep. 4-6: Pirelli Italian Grand Prix
Sep. 11-13: Tag Heuer Spanish Grand Prix
Sep. 24-26: Qatar Airways Azerbaijan Grand Prix
Oct. 9-11: Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix
Oct. 23-25: MSC Cruises United States Grand Prix
Oct. 30-Nov. 1: Mexico City Grand Prix
Nov. 6-8: MSC Cruises São Paulo Grand Prix
Nov. 19-21: Heineken Las Vegas Grand Prix
Nov. 27-29: Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix
Dec. 4-6: Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
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Millwall boss Alex Neil said it feels like his side are playing against their Championship play-off rivals every week as they prepare for Saturday's trip to Hull City.
The two sides are separated by one place and two points going into the match, with the Lions having the chance to go third, at least temporarily, with a victory.
Neil's side have a nine-point cushion over seventh-placed Southampton with 11 games of the season remaining, as they look to seal a return to the top tier for the first time since 1990.
"I think we've played somebody in the top six, it feels like, nearly every week recently," he told BBC Radio London.
"I think they've (Hull) got a bit of bad press at times this season, in my opinion, in terms of people thinking that because [of] the xG (expected goals) and all these other metrics that people talk about. What they are is they're very effective.
"I mean, they're good at what they do. And if we don't play as well as we can, we're going to find that a difficult game.
"They're where they are on merit, as are we. It'll be an interesting game."
Tarik Skubal is scheduled to pitch in a spring training game for the Detroit Tigers on March 16, the same day Team USA faces a potential semifinal game in the World Baseball Classic.
That’s not necessarily how Mark DeRosa, the manager of Team USA in the international baseball tournament, would have drawn in up. Most teams prefer to save their best pitchers for the elimination rounds.
But according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the only condition under which Skubal would have pitched in the WBC is if he was limited to one game during the Pool Play portion of the tournament.
His plan for the semifinals and finals?
“I need to get back to (Tigers) camp and get back to my routine,” Skubal told Nightengale, “but I want to go to Miami and just be at those (WBC) games. … I might just be there and be a cheerleader.”
Skubal, who won each of the last two American League Cy Young Awards, might at least be in the ballpark with his Team USA teammates with the WBC championship on the line.
Skubal is entering his final year before free agency and doesn’t want to risk an injury by overextending himself in March. That’s a unique, if understandable, predicament among players participating in the WBC.
But it’s a predicament nonetheless. The awkward situation would only be furthered if Skubal is in the building and has to say no if DeRosa asks him if he’s available to pitch in the WBC championship game on March 17.
The Chicago Bears have been making waves even before the start of free agency, where they've moved on from some notable players and now have some big holes to fill on the roster.
The Bears traded wide receiver DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills in exchange for a 2026 second-round pick, while also sending a 2025 fifth rounder to Buffalo. Meanwhile, Chicago released linebacker Tremaine Edmunds to free up $15 million in salary cap space. But the biggest shock was center Drew Dalman announcing his retirement after just five years in the NFL.
With that in mind, there are some new holes for the Bears to fill this offseason, be it through free agency or the 2026 NFL Draft. Here's our latest seven-round mock using PFF's mock draft simulator, which includes our latest projections following Moore's trade, Dalman's retirement and Edmunds' release.
Round 1, Pick 25: Peter Woods, DT, Clemson
Defensive tackle is arguably the team's biggest need this offseason, and given the lack of depth in the draft, the Bears will likely be forced to select one in the first round. Peter Woods is a disruptive defensive tackle that would elevate the defensive interior immediately alongside Gervon Dexter and veteran Grady Jarrett. Woods was a projected top-10 pick before last season, but his stock has fallen after an underwhelming 2025 season. That could wind up playing right into Chicago's favor as they land a powerful and explosive athlete to develop in the trenches.
Round 2, Pick 57: A.J. Haulcy, S, LSU
The Bears currently have no safeties under contract for 2026, which makes it a top need this offseason. While Chicago could re-sign Kevin Byard or Jaquan Brisker and/or add a veteran in free agency, there are some solid options in this draft class. A.J. Haulcy is a hard-hitting safety who would be the perfect fit in Dennis Allen's defense. With the Bears potentially losing their top ballhawks in Byard and cornerback Nahshon Wright, Haulcy would be able to fill that role with his penchant for takeaways while shoring up a key need in the secondary.
Round 2, Pick 60: Caleb Tiernan, OT, Northwestern
Before Drew Dalman's retirement, the Bears were already in the market for a starting left tackle after Ozzy Trapilo suffered a ruptured patellar tendon in the wild-card playoffs in January and will miss most of the 2026 season. After trading Moore, Chicago lands another premium second-round pick that they can use at a big area of need, in this case left tackle. Caleb Tiernan, a four-year starter, brings versatility having played both left and right tackle. While he's strong in pass protection, and blocking at the second level, he needs to improve as a run blocker. The Bears believe Trapilo will return healthy, but it's never an idea to invest in a premium position.
Round 3, Pick 89: Jake Slaughter, C, Florida
With Dalman's retirement, center has become one of the biggest needs of the offseason for Chicago. While the Bears would probably prefer to pair a veteran with quarterback Caleb Williams, there are some solid options in the draft with an eye on the future. Jake Slaughter has been praised for his football IQ, which is instrumental to the center position, and he's solid in pass protection. If Chicago signs a veteran like Tyler Biadasz to a short-term in free agency, Slaughter would have the opportunity to learn behind him and develop into Williams' center of the future.
Round 4, Pick 129: Taurean York, LB, Texas A&M
The Bears have parted ways with Tremaine Edmunds this offseason, which frees up $15 million in salary cap space. Depending on what Chicago does with free-agent D'Marco Jackson, linebacker is a big need to fill. T.J. Edwards, who signed an extension last April, is coming off a fractured fibula suffered in the wild-card playoffs, and the Bears need to find him a new running mate. Taurean York, a starter with the Aggies since his freshman year, is undersized at the position, which could allow him to fall to the fourth round and into the waiting arms of the Bears. York possesses the smarts and production, having played in the SEC, to develop into an impact player in the NFL.
Round 7, Pick 239: Patrick Payton, EDGE, LSU
In this scenario, the Bears manage to land a veteran edge rusher to join Montez Sweat, Dayo Odeyingbo and Austin Booker, which means they wait until later in the draft to add an edge rusher to develop. Ryan Poles has noted the depth of edge rusher in this class, which allows them to land a solid edge in Patrick Payton later in the draft. Payton, a three-year starter between Florida State and LSU, has good instincts, a strong motor and a high ceiling as a potential developmental edge in Dennis Allen's defense.
Round 7, Pick 241: Malik Benson, WR, Oregon
The Bears were able to trade DJ Moore because of the young talent they have with Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III, but they're also going to have to fill out depth behind them. Ben Johnson is always looking to add young offensive talent, and Malik Benson could be a potential late-round steal. Benson possesses elite speed that makes him a real deep threat and another potential dangerous weapon in this Chicago offense. He also has experience returning punts, which would be beneficial if the Bears don't re-sign Devin Duvernay to lead the return game.
Less than two weeks after announcing his intentions to return to the Detroit Lions for an 11th season, offensive tackle Taylor Decker announced on his Instagram on Friday that he has requested his release from the one and only franchise he's ever played for.
While Decker didn't fully divulge the details of his conversations with the Lions in his post, he referred to a lack of common ground between himself and the team.
"Things change, 145 games started, 3 playoff appearances, 2 division titles and a decade carrying the shield. I fully intended to do it once again, but my time as a Lion is coming to an end," Decker wrote. "In the weeks since notifying the team of my return there have been numerous discussions. Many of which were a surprise to me, and we could not find common ground. Therefore[,] I decided to request my release.
"I am opting for a clean and amicable close to what has been such a beautiful 10 years going to war as a Lion," Decker continued.
"It has been the absolute privilege of my life to be your LT for the past 10 years. And I am forever grateful for the opportunity the Ford family and Lions organization afforded me."
Decker's release will generate $11.6 million in cap savings and $9.4 million in dead cap.
This is a developing story. Check back for more updates.
nbianchi@detroitnews.com
@nolanbianchi
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A year removed from his promotion to co-lead writer for the "WWE SmackDown" brand, WWE Hall of Famer "Road Dogg" Brian James exited WWE on Thursday, with reports citing the move as one of his own doing.
In a new update, PWInsider reports that James quit his job with WWE in person this week after openly expressing his unhappiness with it. The Wrestling Observer Newsletter further notes that James' decision to leave WWE came after his annual performance review.
A source close to the situation indicated to WON that James' frustrations had been "brewing" as James himself had recently hinted at a departure. James was reportedly set to appear at a convention later this month with WWE's approval. At some point, WWE then withdrew their permission, causing James to cancel the convention date. While canceling the appearance, however, James suggested that future ones "wouldn't be an issue starting in a little while."
Tonight's edition of "SmackDown" will take WWE to Portland, Oregon, where Cody Rhodes is set to challenge Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship. Elsewhere, 2026 Women's Elimination Chamber winner Rhea Ripley will confront her WrestleMania 42 opponent, Women's Champion Jade Cargill.
—The Louisville women’s basketball team kicks off postseason play at 5 p.m. with an ACC Tournament quarterfinal game against 7th-seeded Syracuse. ESPN2 will have the television coverage. Here’s a preview.
—It’s the most important month of the 2025-26 college basketball season, but behind closed doors, conversations about roster assembly for the 2026-27 season are already in full swing.
Among the big questions that schools face is whether to begin contract negotiations with potential returning players for next year during the season or wait until after. Some schools heavily value the certainty of locking a player into a new contract early, giving them roster certainty that informs how they attack the portal. Others fear negotiations, even if primarily being done with an agent rather than the player themselves, could impact a player’s psyche.
“These aren’t the types of conversations that you can have with some and not have with all, because it’s going to mess up your locker room,” GM No. 1 says. “It’s going to get out, so you have to be strategic about when and where you have those conversations and the safe play is to wait until that buzzer sounds.”
“Ultimately, I think the players that are going to leave know they’re going to leave … so it doesn’t really need to get talked about in my opinion,” GM No. 3 says. “And for the kids that you do want back, they would also know you want them back. It’s kind of unspoken. So to me, why would I set the market early on a kid?”
In many ways, that’s the most critical push and pull: Schools want to avoid putting their cards on the table as long as possible, while agents want to create as many options for their clients as possible at this time of year to create leverage for a stronger offer, even if they plan on returning to their current school.
“You have conversations going on and you have to know damn well that the presentation you’re getting for your own player [from his agent] is going to 10 other schools,” GM No. 2 said.
And increasingly, that leverage means that players (or their representatives) have a pretty good idea of where they’re headed well before they ever enter the portal, something that could be exacerbated by the later April 7 portal opening date. The front office staffers SI spoke to were skeptical that many if any portal deals are already done, but some could in the lead-up to the portal opening and if nothing else, players will often enter the portal with a handful of options already lined up and money discussed. This is in spite of the fact that the NCAA has attempted to crack down on tampering, sending a memo last week that reminded schools that even communicating with a player’s agent before they enter the portal is against NCAA rules.
“I think the general consensus is that, and I’m not saying this is the way it should be, but I think that most guys by the time they enter the portal will have a shortlist of three to five schools and a good market range of what those schools will offer,” GM No. 2 says.
—Here’s a good NBA Draft scouting report on Ryan Conwell, which also does a good job at breaking down the strengths and weaknesses he’s displayed thus far this season at U of L.
—Lorenzo Mauldin, who just last month signed with the UFL’s Louisville Kings, has now announced his retirement from football.
—State of Louisville previews this weekend’s baseball series against Seton Hall.
—Cool video here of Mikel Brown Jr. making a young Cardinal fan’s year.
—Reece Gaines earned a Coach of the Year nod for his work this season at Saint Mary’s Hall in San Antonio.
—ESPN has Lincoln Kienholz all the way down at No. 53 in its pre-spring ranking of all 68 power conference quarterbacks.
53. Lincoln Kienholz, Louisville Cardinals
2025 stat line (Ohio State): 95.0 QBR, 139 passing yards, one TD, zero INTs, 78.6% completion rate, 12.6 yards per completion; 66 non-sack rushing yards, two TDs
Kienholz was a garbage-time delight at Ohio State last season, but if he holds off freshman Briggs Cherry and West Georgia transfer Davin Wydner for the starting job, he’ll earn the first real snaps of his career. He’s a mobile guy with at least short-range accuracy. There are some fun weapons in Jeff Brohm’s latest enormous transfer haul, but we’ll see what kind of upside Kienholz can bring to the table.
—Cardinal Authority looks at where the men’s basketball team currently sits in the various Bracketology projections. Almost everyone still has the Cards as a 6-seed, with some dropping them to the 7 line.
—If Louisville loses, it’d better hope that either NC State or Florida State loses too. If they don’t, the Cards get the worst draw imaginable for the ACC Tournament.
—The ACC has flipped tip times for the tournament this year to ensure that both Duke and North Carolina can play in prime time (weird that they didn’t do the same thing for the women’s tournament, where Duke is the No. 1 seed and had to play its quarterfinal game at 11 a.m.).
If Louisville earns the 6 or the 7-seed, they’ll play an afternoon game next Wednesday.
—Louisville Report’s Matt McGavic thinks Miami tops the Cards by 6 tomorrow afternoon.
—Sacred Heart and Assumption will meet in the girls 7th Region championship game, while Bullitt East and PRP will duke it out for the 6th Region crown.
—Lehigh’s halfcourt buzzer-beater in the Patriot League quarterfinals gave us the best moment of March so far.
—If that wasn’t the best moment of March so far, then it has to be this:
Never one to give ASU credit for anything but hitting the smoke machine on Bill Self after he’s been ejected is incredible work by that arena worker pic.twitter.com/luG3ICpaSK
—Mitch Barnhart’s golden parachute at UK has pissed off pretty much everyone in Lexington. As it should.
—Police say a coach on the Cal State Bakersfield men’s basketball program was moonlighting as a pimp across four states. This is March.
—Earlier this week, U of L president Gerry Bradley, athletic director Josh Heird, and board chair Larry Benz published a white paper outlining three major changes they believe need to be made to save college sports. You can read the paper here.
—When you didn’t bother to read the assignment but still try to write the paper, this is what happens.
Louisville sounds alarm, spells out NCAA sports doomsday in a panicky paper. Oh, please. Your big spending says otherwise. https://t.co/SBq12PABFA
There are only 22 high-major scholarship players who will celebrate Senior Night this week, having played at just one place. Mississippi State's Shawn Jones Jr. is the only SEC senior to finish where he started.
—Troy Nunes is an Absolute Magician has some takeaways from Syracuse’s Tuesday night loss at Louisville.
—The Athletic’s latest NBA mock draft has Mikel Brown Jr. going 8th overall, but notes that he could move up the board with a strong finish to his freshman season.
—After taking down Jacksonville in the first round of the Atlantic Sun Tournament on Wednesday, Bellarmine head coach Doug Davenport saw his first year as the front man for the Knights come to an end with a loss to top-seeded Central Arkansas Friday afternoon.
—Spencer Legg and teammates Ryan Conwell, Isaac McKneely and Adrian Wooley will be hosting an event on Sunday to continue to raise awareness about the type-I diabetes community.
—TNIAAM previews this afternoon/evening’s ACC quarterfinal matchup between Louisville and Syracuse.
—The Mike Rutherford Show is wrapping up the week at Molly Malone’s in the Highlands from 2:30-5:30 this afternoon. Stop by and see us.
The Economics of NASCAR Lawsuits: Why Teams Are Fighting Harder Than Ever
NASCAR’s recent wave of litigation did not erupt because the garage suddenly got emotional. It escalated because the sport’s underlying economics turned into a high-stakes squeeze: team costs remain huge, guaranteed revenue is limited, and the core asset teams buy into—charters—became both extraordinarily valuable and structurally insecure. When the money gets that tight, lawsuits stop looking like drama and start looking like a business tool.
The headline case, filed by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina, put the charter system and revenue split on trial. The case was formally filed October 2, 2024, as an antitrust matter (case 3:24-cv-00886). The litigation ultimately ended in a settlement in December 2025 that granted “evergreen” (permanent, condition-based) charters to teams, materially changing the asset profile of the Cup Series.
The financial frame is unusually well-documented because court-unsealed exhibits and related reporting brought numbers into public view. FOX Sports reported that documents in the case showed NASCAR’s overall revenue at $1.7 billion in 2024 and comprehensive income of $103 million that year (with 2023 heavily affected by a major land sale). Those same materials and related testimony painted a different picture for teams: only three organizations reportedly made money in 2024, and one claimed a loss of $10 million per car.
This report explains why these legal fights intensified when they did. It focuses on the economic mechanics: charter valuations and permanence, the media-rights money that raises expectations, the cost structure of race teams, and the leverage points held by drivers and manufacturers. It also contextualizes NASCAR’s litigation moment by comparing it to other motorsports contract and financial disputes where the same incentives—control, revenue share, and asset protection—drive courtroom strategies.
Methodology
This report prioritizes primary materials and near-primary documentation. It uses court records and orders related to the 23XI/Front Row v. NASCAR litigation (including published federal court orders and filings summaries), official NASCAR communications, and contemporaneous reporting grounded in trial testimony and unsealed financial documents.
Financial and market claims about charter prices are sourced from outlets that explicitly cite transaction figures or reflect unsealed exhibits, including RACER’s reporting on charter sale prices and AP coverage that references the $40 million benchmark for a single charter sale. Media-rights structure is sourced from NASCAR’s official release and widely reported deal values via CBS Sports (which cites Sports Business Journal reporting).
Where key values are inherently opaque—such as direct manufacturer subsidy levels—this report identifies what is known (engine supply centralization and technical support structures) and explicitly marks specific dollar amounts as unspecified when they are not publicly documented in the cited sources.
Primary source links are included in code blocks for newsroom verification and follow-up.
Overview of the current legal landscape
The 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports lawsuit against NASCAR is best understood as a dispute over the economics of participation in the Cup Series. The plaintiffs alleged monopolization and anticompetitive conduct tied to NASCAR’s control over race participation and the charter framework, while NASCAR defended its system as a lawful business structure and pushed back aggressively during the litigation.
The case was filed October 2, 2024 in the Western District of North Carolina (Charlotte division), and it is explicitly categorized as an antitrust case under federal law in docket summaries. Early court battles centered on whether the teams could preserve “chartered” status while suing, because operating as open teams introduces substantial risk: it can reduce guaranteed revenue and can trigger sponsor and driver contract provisions tied to making every race.
A November 2024 order denied an early preliminary injunction request without prejudice, and the court’s findings outlined the central operational concern: teams argued that losing charter status could jeopardize sponsorship continuity, driver retention, and long-term viability, while the court concluded much of the claimed harm was too speculative at that stage and fast-tracked the case schedule. The litigation did not fade; it broadened. An AP report later described how 12 non-party teams fought NASCAR subpoenas for years of financial records on the grounds that disclosure could be “catastrophic” to competitive balance and commercially sensitive information.
The economic stakes became explicit in trial testimony. AP reported that an economist witness calculated $364.7 million in damages owed to the two teams and claimed NASCAR’s model shorted the broader chartered field by over $1 billion from 2021–2024, using comparative revenue-sharing assumptions as part of his damages framework. That magnitude matters because antitrust law allows successful private plaintiffs to recover treble damages, which is one reason antitrust disputes become settlement magnets once credible damages theories emerge.
The case ultimately ended in a December 2025 settlement, with NASCAR, 23XI, and Front Row announcing resolution and the end of the legal fight. Multiple industry reports tied to the settlement said the outcome included evergreen charter provisions and related governance and revenue clarifications, which immediately reframed charters as a more franchise-like permanent asset rather than an expiring agreement.
Primary links
textCase docket summary (filed Oct. 2, 2024; W.D.N.C.):
https://dockets.justia.com/docket/north-carolina/ncwdce/3:2024cv00886/117501
Nov. 2024 federal court order on preliminary injunction (Case No. 3:24-CV-00886):
https://www.theassemblync.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2311-RACING-LLC-et-al-v-NASCAR-20241108-1.pdf
Sept. 2025 memorandum/order referencing injunction history and Fourth Circuit action:
https://www.courthousenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/23xi-front-row-nascar-opinion-preliminary-order.pdf
NASCAR statement on settlement (Dec. 11, 2025):
https://www.nascar.com/news-media/
The charter system and its financial weight
NASCAR introduced the Cup Series charter system ahead of the 2016 season, with NASCAR framing it as a long-term structure designed to create stability, guarantee entry, and allow teams to build enterprise value. NASCAR’s own explainer states that 36 charters were issued based on teams’ multi-year participation commitment, and that a charter guarantees entry into every Cup points race and a portion of the purse.
Charters are not merely a “spot in the field.” They operate like an ownership asset that allows planning, borrowing, sponsorship packaging, and long-term investment in personnel and infrastructure. That is why trial testimony repeatedly compared charters to franchise models in other sports, while also stressing a key difference: teams argued that if the underlying charter rights can expire or be revoked, the “franchise” analogy breaks down.
Market pricing shows how dramatically charter value has moved. RACER reported that Live Fast Motorsports sold a charter for $40 million in 2024 and that Stewart-Haas Racing sold three charters for a combined $84 million, figures that were far above early reported charter transaction ranges in 2016. AP also referenced the $40 million purchase benchmark in discussing charter value volatility and the strategic interest in acquiring charters when major teams closed.
By late 2025, the market context likely shifted again. An AP report on Michael Jordan’s testimony said 23XI bought a third charter for $28 million despite the uncertainty, underscoring how teams treat charters as foundational assets even amid legal disruption. After the December 2025 settlement established evergreen charter provisions, industry reporting summarized by Jayski (citing Sports Business Journal) said executives expected immediate value increases, and noted that Legacy Motor Club paid $45 million for a charter in 2025—an illustrative market datapoint for the pre-evergreen peak.
The core economic insight is straightforward. When a charter is potentially time-limited, owners discount it like a lease. When it becomes evergreen, owners begin valuing it like a permanent franchise right, and that changes everything from financing capacity to willingness to litigate to protect the asset’s terms.
Media rights and revenue tensions
NASCAR’s next media-rights cycle is both an earnings engine and a conflict amplifier. NASCAR announced seven-year agreements beginning in 2025 and running through 2031 with FOX Sports, NBC Sports, Amazon Prime Video, and Warner Bros. Discovery/TNT Sports, covering all 38 Cup races each season and giving Prime and TNT split packages of midseason races plus practice/qualifying rights.
NASCAR did not disclose financial terms in its official release, but CBS Sports reported—citing Sports Business Journal—that the deal is worth $7.7 billion total, or about $1.1 billion annually, representing a significant increase versus the prior cycle. That kind of jump changes bargaining expectations. Teams see a larger media pool and ask why guaranteed team revenue and long-term charter certainty do not rise proportionally, particularly in a system where many teams claim they need sponsorship simply to survive.
The litigation record also includes direct claims about revenue distribution. In trial testimony cited by AP, an economist said NASCAR’s charter-era model provided 25% of revenue to teams in his analysis and used an F1 comparison for a higher share in calculating damages. NASCAR disputed that methodology, but the key point for economics is that revenue-split disagreement is not philosophical; it changes whether a chartered team can operate sustainably, which then determines whether charters are rational investments at current market prices.
Media structure itself influences sponsor value. ESPN reported testimony that teams worried the shift toward streaming in the new media mix could reduce sponsor appetite for certain packages, because some sponsors prioritize traditional television reach. That concern links directly back to lawsuits: if sponsorship becomes harder to monetize while costs remain high, teams rely more heavily on guaranteed revenue and the stability of charter rights.
Team economics under pressure
The financial picture for many Cup teams has been described in unusually direct terms during this litigation cycle. FOX Sports reported that chartered teams can earn roughly $7 million to $18 million per season before sponsorship and that teams’ accounting had them losing about $2.2 million per car, with only three organizations reportedly finishing 2024 profitable. The same report said NASCAR paid an average of $670 million to teams and tracks in 2023–2024 while averaging $340 million in profit across those two years, based on disclosed documents.
Cost is the other side of the equation. Trial reporting and testimony cited by ESPN described a baseline estimate of roughly $20 million to field a single Cup car for a full season, while also emphasizing that charter-related revenue does not cover that full figure—forcing teams to chase sponsorship and other commercial deals to bridge the gap. This is where economics becomes litigation fuel: if the system is structurally “upside down” for a majority of teams, then legal strategies become another form of business strategy.
The Next Gen car was designed, in part, as a cost-control and parity tool, but it became part of the legal narrative. In trial testimony summarized by RACER, NASCAR executive John Probst testified that NASCAR’s investment in Next Gen development was “pushing” $14 million, that NASCAR designed parts and applied for patents, and that teams were not forced to buy a maximum number of chassis but were limited by how many could be used per charter car. Plaintiffs, by contrast, emphasized supplier control and the inability to monetize or reuse the platform outside NASCAR contexts, which ties back into antitrust claims about control of inputs and competitive alternatives.
Inflation and general cost pressures provide additional context, even if they do not explain NASCAR-specific economics by themselves. The Bureau of Labor Statistics noted the Consumer Price Index rose 2.9% from December 2023 to December 2024, and labor, travel, and materials are meaningful line items for a national touring series with large headcounts and equipment demands. When costs stay elevated and revenue stability is contested, litigation becomes a rational escalation path, not an irrational one.
Driver and manufacturer leverage
Driver contracts and related lawsuits matter here because they illustrate how modern motorsport economics treat reputation, sponsorship, and contractual control as monetizable assets worth fighting over. Kyle Busch’s lawsuit against Pacific Life is not a NASCAR governance dispute, but it shows the broader trend: high-income stakeholders increasingly litigate financial products, contracts, and representations rather than absorbing losses quietly. NASCAR-linked reporting confirms Busch and his wife reached a confidential settlement and notified the court that dismissal paperwork would follow, reflecting an economic incentive to close disputes rather than burn time and legal fees.
The Palou–McLaren dispute provides an even clearer motorsports comparison because it quantifies commercial loss from contract instability. AP reported Palou was ordered to pay McLaren more than $12 million after a five-week High Court trial, that McLaren originally sought closer to $30 million, and that Ganassi and Palou later finalized a settlement. Importantly for economics, AP also reported that a declaration in that case indicated Ganassi agreed to bear reasonable legal fees and to indemnify against claims, showing how organizations sometimes treat legal risk as a cost of doing business when talent and competitive edge are at stake.
Manufacturers are another leverage pillar, but direct subsidy numbers are rarely public. What is verifiable is that Cup engine supply is centralized through manufacturer-aligned builders and technical programs, which increases the strategic importance of alignment. Roush Yates Engines describes itself as Ford Racing’s exclusive engine builder for the NASCAR Cup Series, and ECR Engines states its core business is providing NASCAR partners with engines and related development. When engines, calibration support, and technical ecosystems route through manufacturer lanes, teams’ manufacturer relationships inevitably affect bargaining posture and the practical consequences of any governance fight.
Why lawsuits are escalating now
Several converging economic forces explain why NASCAR litigation escalated into a landmark antitrust trial and then a structural settlement. The first is asset economics: charter values moved from low single millions in the early era to tens of millions per charter in disclosed transactions, creating a real investment class inside NASCAR that owners will defend aggressively. When a single charter can trade around $40–$45 million in reported transactions, owners naturally demand durable legal security over what they just bought.
The second is revenue expectations tied to media rights. A larger rights deal—widely reported at $7.7 billion over seven years—raises expectations among teams about what “fair” revenue participation should look like, especially when testimony and disclosed documents suggest many teams still lose money even with charters. The third is cost rigidity: when baseline annual costs are discussed in the $20 million range per car and guaranteed revenue is materially lower, disputes over the split become existential rather than theoretical.
The final accelerant is legal structure. Antitrust claims carry extraordinary financial exposure because of treble-damages provisions under federal law, which magnifies settlement incentives once credible damages models are presented at trial. That reality helps explain why the 23XI/FRM dispute ended with a settlement that reportedly reshaped charters into evergreen assets and triggered immediate market re-evaluations.
Comparative tables and timeline
Topic
What’s confirmed
What remains unclear / unspecified
Lawsuit filing
Filed Oct. 2, 2024 in W.D.N.C. (Charlotte); antitrust case
Full confidential settlement terms beyond what parties/public reports disclosed
Charter system basics
Introduced 2016; 36 charters; guaranteed entry and purse share
Exact valuation methodology used privately by buyers/sellers in each deal
Charter market prices
$40M charter sale reported; three SHR charters sold for $84M; $45M charter purchase reported in 2025
Post-settlement price discovery is still evolving; “$90–$100M” are executive estimates
Media rights
2025–2031 deal with FOX/NBC/Amazon/WBD; widely reported $7.7B total
Exact contractual breakdown of fees by partner and how revenue is contractually allocated downstream
Team financials
NASCAR 2024 revenue reported at $1.7B; total team payouts 2025 reported at $431M; team profitability issues disclosed
Full team-by-team P&Ls and sponsorship contract specifics remain protected
Manufacturer backing
Engine supply is centralized through manufacturer-aligned builders
Direct cash subsidy levels and incentive structures are generally undisclosed
Conclusion
NASCAR’s litigation era is an economics story first, and a personality story second. Charters became expensive assets without the security profile owners believed they needed, and that mismatch turned negotiations into litigation when teams felt they were being asked to sign away leverage while remaining financially exposed.
The numbers brought into public view outline why teams fought so hard. Reported charter transactions moved into the $40 million-plus range, annual payouts to teams rose to $431 million in 2025, and yet disclosed team-level financial summaries suggested most organizations still struggled to consistently turn a profit. With billions in media rights at stake, a shifting broadcast/streaming mix, and costs that teams and NASCAR leadership argue over in the tens of millions per car, legal confrontation became a rational strategy for owners protecting capital, not a last-resort tantrum.
The settlement that made charters evergreen did not end the underlying economic pressures, but it changed the direction of the pressure. It effectively upgraded the core Cup asset from a renewable deal into something closer to a permanent franchise right, and that single shift is why this case mattered more than a typical sports lawsuit. The next fights—over revenue splits, supplier control, and competitive data—will follow the same logic, because in modern NASCAR, the courtroom is now part of the business model.
Serie A | Napoli vs Torino – Official Starting Lineups
Napoli host Torino at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona this evening, as Antonio Conte’s side look to bounce back from recent wobbles to ensure they do not lose further ground in the race for the top four.
Conte’s Partenopei currently sit in third place but have lost much ground on league leaders Inter over the past couple of months.
An injury crisis in Naples has left Conte fairly short-staffed and they now sit 14 points off of the Nerazzurri. Therefore, the Scudetto dream is quickly fading away but it is still all to play for in the exciting race for Champions League football.
Napoli have a five point lead over 5th placed Como, with Juventus one point behind Fabregas’ side and Atalanta two points behind the Bianconeri.
Torino, meanwhile, come into this game off the back of a first win under Roberto D’Aversa, winning 2-0 at home to Lazio after three consecutive games without a win that saw Marco Baroni sacked.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 1: Roberto D’Aversa, Manager of Torino FC during the Serie A match between Torino FC and SS Lazio at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on March 1, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Chris Ricco/Getty Images)
‘There is nowhere to hide’ – Jermain Defoe on Spurs’ relegation fight
Former Spurs striker Jermain Defoe has warned the current squad that there is “nowhere to hide” as they battle to preserve their Premier League status.
Spurs are 16th in the league, just one point ahead of 18th-placed West Ham and the threat of relegation is looking ever-more serious after a crushing 3-1 defeat at home to Crystal Palace this week.
Speaking to Hayters at the London Football Awards, and asked if Spurs could avoid relegation, Defoe said: “I hope so. They have no choice. When you look at West Ham and their performances of late, Leeds, Nottingham Forest. These teams seem like they are getting a little bit of momentum. A bit of confidence.
“There is nowhere to hide now. These Tottenham players, that is the reality. You are in a relegation fight and you are going to have to find something to get out of it.”
It has been a disastrous season for Tottenham, but they have not been helped by the injury situation. Key players such as James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski have been out for most of the campaign.
Defoe said on the injuries: “When you have got key injuries, and that many injuries, it is not going to help. Of course you would like to think the players set to come back will come in and produce, and put in the same level of performances (as before they were injured). But it has been difficult. It was difficult last season.
“Last season they probably had the same amount of injuries, and it has happened this season. Some key players. It has been frustrating. But get one or two players back and the level of performance has to go up. To be honest, you can perform well and not win. I’d rather see the wins at this stage.”
BOSTON — The wait is over. Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum was officially taken off the injury report for the first time all season, as he's set to make his debut on Friday night against the Dallas Mavericks.
This will mark his first time suiting up for the Green Team since May 12, 2025, when he ruptured his Achilles late in a Game 4 loss to the New York Knicks during the Eastern Conference Semifinals. While Tatum's quick comeback from such a gruesome injury is practically miraculous, it's not a shock given all the recent buzz around him returning to play before the 2026 NBA Playoffs.
Jayson Tatum working out at the Auerbach Center while talking to Derrick White: pic.twitter.com/LZUnypLOOa
“He's humble in who he is, his approach every day,” Celtics wing Sam Hauser said of Tatum's commitment to coming back during a Friday morning shootaround at the Auerbach Center. “He puts the work in, gets his treatment.”
In Tatum's absence, the C's went 41-21 and did more than just hold their own. They're in second place in the Eastern Conference and on track to reach the playoffs with good seeding.
Reintegrating Tatum into the lineup may not be seamless initially, but the Celtics are hopeful their six-time All-Star will be just fine once he finds his footing again.
"He's been around [practice], so I think he'll be able to fit right in,” Hauser said. “We'll be able to fit around him.”
After almost 300 days away from the court, Tatum will make his triumphant return to TD Garden in just a few hours, as Celtics-Mavericks tips off at 7 p.m. (ET).
"The crowd will probably love it," Hauser said of Tatum's first game back.
Milwaukee native and pro basketball player Arike Ogunobwale was arrested after she allegedly punched a security guard at a Miami nightclub during her team's Unrivaled championship celebration March 5. TMZ has confirmed the initial report about the arrest from Miami-based Fox Sports personality Andy Slater.
TMZ obtained the criminal complaint after the incident at E11EVEN night club in Miami.
"The officer made contact with the alleged victim … who claimed he was attempting to escort 29-year-old Ogunbowale out of the club due to an unrelated altercation – when she punched him in the face with a closed fist, causing him to fall to the ground," TMZ said.
The report indicates the incident was captured on security footage.
The championship game, played at Miami's Sephora Arena, capped the second season of Unrivaled, which has become an offseason home for WNBA players. Ogunbowale, turned 29 on March 2, has made four all-star teams with her WNBA team, the Dallas Wings.
The idea of Eddie Hearn and Dana White settling their feud inside a boxing ring has continued to gain attention in the combat sports world.
The rivalry between the Matchroom promoter and the UFC president has intensified since White entered the boxing landscape through the launch of Zuffa Boxing.
The 56-year-old American recently suggested he would be open to boxing Hearn. And now the Briton has given his answer on the matter.
Eddie Hearn says he would accept a boxing fight against Dana White
Hearn has now responded to the suggestion during an interview with IFL TV, making it clear he would not turn down the challenge.
The British promoter even joked that the spectacle could become a major commercial event.
“He’s called me a p—— and called me out for a fight. Of course I’d do it, because how could you say no? Then you’d be a p——, wouldn’t you?” Hearn said.
“By the way, Netflix would pay an absolute fortune. So I’d probably make a fortune to do it, and if I got chinned, I’d get chinned. But I’d probably spark him out, to be fair.”
Tom Aspinall backs Eddie Hearn in potential Dana White fight
Photo by Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images
UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has also shared his thoughts on the potential matchup.
The British fighter, who recently signed with Hearn’s management agency, believes the Matchroom promoter could have a physical advantage if the fight ever happened.
“I think Eddie’s got the size on him,” Aspinall stated.
Hearn also revealed a humorous exchange he had with the heavyweight champion about the idea.
“He said to me: ‘If you get beat in there, the deal’s over.’”
The fight remains purely hypothetical, but it is hard to rule out the idea while celebrity boxing has been growing year after year.
Cristiano Ronaldo was taken off in the 70th minute of Al-Nassr's match on Saturday [Getty Images]
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo will travel to Spain for treatment on a hamstring injury that is "more serious" than first thought.
The 41-year-old forward, who has scored 21 goals in 22 games this season in the Saudi Pro League for leaders Al-Nassr, was substituted in a 3-1 win against Al-Fayha on Saturday.
He had earlier missed a penalty.
Speaking before the side's match against Neom on Saturday, Al-Nassr coach Jorge Jesus said Ronaldo would visit Madrid where "he will need treatment from his personal physiotherapist".
"In the last game, Cristiano left with a muscle injury. After the tests he underwent, it became clear that it is a more serious injury than we were expecting," he added.
"He will need rest and recovery. We hope he will return soon to help the team."
It is unclear whether the five-time Ballon d'Or winner will be fit to play in Portugal's friendlies against Mexico on 29 March and the United States on 1 April.
MIAMI, FL - MARCH 05: Julio Rodríguez #44 of Team Dominican Republic films on his camcorder during the 2026 World Baseball Classic workout day at loanDepot park on Thursday, March 5, 2026 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Kelly Gavin/WBCI/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Almost nine years ago to this day, I wrote about the history of the World Baseball Classic, fearing its end and opining for its more thorough embrace. I opened with this:
The World Baseball Classic (WBC) should, ostensibly, be important. It’s a huge tournament that occurs only once every four years and features some of the best Major League Baseball talents and national stars, all competing to best represent their country. The preliminary rounds take place throughout the world, which theoretically should make them more accessible to a wider audience, and a number of MLB’s greatest international talents first gained fame on the Classic’s stage.
So why is it nearly impossible to find in-depth information on the WBC? What is the fate of the World Baseball Classic beyond 2017? Would changes to the tournament give it greater success, and is it even worthwhile to implement those changes? Why have they considered ending the WBC after this year?
Reporting to you now from 2026, I’m blown away by how different things are. There is no shortage of content or information about the WBC; many of the game’s biggest stars are competing; there were exhibition games all over the world against MLB teams. Heck, you can watch the games with relative ease and even hear some good announcers while you watch! It is an unmitigated joy to witness global baseball elevated in this way.
Here at LL, our intent is to create some game threads for the tournament, where you can caterwaul to your heart’s content about anything from Eduard Bazardo facing Andruw Jones’ son, Fernando Tatis Jr. looking radiant in the República Dominicana colors, Cal Raleigh catching Tarik Skubal or any number of other beautifully absurd WBC phenomena. But in the meantime, we thought it might be helpful to assemble a one-stop shop for all your WBC links and information. Enjoy!
Brilliant Meet at the Mitt podcast listener Josh was inspired by our WBC talk in the latest episode and created this incredible site that allows you to easily click on an MLB team and see which players will be playing for which countries – and to then see what players might be playing on any given day. Plus a link to Gameday for said game. PLUS which network the game is being broadcast on!
It’s truly amazing.
Since this is a volcano blog Mariners site, here’s a quick (there are 16, tied for first-most in MLB, plus two in the pitching pool for later play, italicized) list of M’s players and their teams.
Pedro Da Costa Lemos – Brazil
Josh Naylor – Canada
Guillo Zuñiga – Colombia
Michael Arroyo – Colombia
Julio Rodríguez – Dominican Republic
Luis Castillo – Dominican Republic
Charlie Beilenson – Israel
Dominic Canzone – Italy
Miles Mastrobuoni – Italy
Dane Dunning – Korea
Andrés Muñoz – Mexico
Randy Arozarena – Mexico
Dylan Wilson – Netherlands
Abdiel Mendoza – Panama
Cal Raleigh – USA
Gabe Speier – USA
Eduard Bazardo – Venezuela
Jhonathan Diaz – Venezuela
Pool play began March 4 and runs until March 11. Quarterfinals and semifinals happen March 13 to 16 and the championship game is on March 17 at 5 p.m. PT. Here’s a simple link to the schedule.
Pool A (San Juan, Puerto Rico): Puerto Rico, Panama, Canada, Cuba, Colombia
Pool B (Houston): USA, Brazil, Italy, Great Britain, Mexico
Pool C (Tokyo): Japan, Chinese Taipei, Korea, Australia, Czechia
Pool D (Miami): Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Netherlands, Israel, Nicaragua
Curious about the rules within the tournament? Here’s a remarkably thorough breakdown of everything from player eligibility, to pitch limits (because yes, there are pitch limits. Gotta protect from The Sog), to tie break scenarios.
Michael Clair, of MLB.com, has been covering baseball on a global scale for many years now (including a brilliant book about Czechia’s magical 2023 WBC run) and has a great archive of articles and is an excellent follow on whatever your preferred platform may be.
Need some background music to get yourself jazzed for the WBC? Great news, they just dropped their first-ever WBC Soundtrack.
Sam Querrey believes Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have taken the tennis world by surprise with how quickly they’ve reached the top.
When the Big Three began to fade, many expected there to be a window of opportunity for other players to step in.
This seemed like a chance for Alexander Zverev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and even Taylor Fritz to finally break through and claim the Grand Slam titles that had eluded them early in their careers.
Instead, Alcaraz and Sinner moved past them in no time at all, taking over far more comfortably than anyone could have predicted.
Sam Querrey likens Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner to the Big Three
Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images
During a conversation with Sports Illustrated, Querrey shared his thoughts on the current landscape, drawing a comparison between the rising duo and the iconic Big Three.
“The delta between Alcaraz and Sinner and the field is way bigger than Federer, Nadal, [Novak] Djokovic and the field. The gap that these two have created is like the biggest gap we’ve ever seen,” he said.
The American went on to highlight how Zverev, Tsitsipas, and others seemed caught off guard by just how quickly Alcaraz and Sinner established themselves at the top.
Querrey continued: “I think people thought ‘O.K., there’s going to be a four or five-year window here where [Stefanos] Tsitsipas, [Alexander] Zverev and all these guys were going to get a handful of majors. Some of them got one. But, everyone is very shocked that right away two guys at 20 years old just started dominating.”
Brad Gilbert also weighed in on Novak Djokovic’s place in this two-man era: “I feel like there’s a pretty big distance—it goes one and two, and then it goes three, and then there’s a very big distance between four and 10 to one and two.”
“In the men’s game right now, that gap feels even wider. But you can’t argue with it—they’ve earned everything they’ve got by how dominant they’ve been against everyone else.”
“We’re waiting for that third person,” Gilbert added. “But unfortunately that third person is Djokovic at 38 years young. He’s still clearly the third best player out there, especially when you look at how consistent he remains in majors.”
Who might step up to challenge Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner?
After years of the Big Three holding a firm grip on the men’s game, much of the discussion around Alcaraz and Sinner now revolves around who might be able to join them at the top.
While there’s no clear answer yet, a few names stand out as potential candidates to fill that role.
Before his injury, Jack Draper looked like a real possibility. Ben Shelton has also been mentioned often, especially after picking up his first Masters 1000 title in 2025.
Arthur Fils has shown promise but still faces questions about whether he can stay healthy enough to compete consistently at the highest level.
And while Holger Rune has been out of action with an Achilles injury, he shouldn’t be overlooked. When he returns, he could still have a chance to shake up what’s become a two-player race at the top.
Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum speaks gives a press conference on the reform the electoral law that will be sent to Congress for discussion and subsequent approval. Carlos Santiago/eyepix via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
Co-host nation Mexico has presented its security plan for the FIFA World Cup, just two weeks after outbreaks of violence in the North American country following the killing of a drug lord.
More than 100,000 soldiers, police officers and private security forces, as well as drones, military aircraft and explosive detection dogs are to ensure the smooth running of the tournament in the summer, the Mexican government announced on Friday.
Mexico is hosting the tournament together with the United States and Canada.
"As you can see, we are well prepared," President Claudia Sheinbaum said at a press conference in the city of Guadalajara, one of the venues.
According to General Román Villalvazo, head of the World Cup security coordination centre in Mexico, three to four rings of security are to be established at all major World Cup locations, including stadiums, team hotels, airports and fan zones.
Thirteen World Cup matches to be held in Mexico
The World Cup opening match is scheduled to take place on June 11 in the Mexican capital. A total of 13 matches are due to be held in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. European champions Spain, Mexico and South Korea are set to play in Guadalajara.
A wave of violence erupted on February 22 in several Mexican states after the death during an operation to arrest him of the drug lord Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as El Mencho.
Vehicles were set on fire, and illegal roadblocks were erected. More than 70 people lost their lives.
The chaos, just a few months before the FIFA World Cup, raised doubts about Mexico's suitability as a host nation.
The Mexican government assured that the safety of teams and visitors was guaranteed.
The Detroit Lions will need a new left tackle after all.
Taylor Decker, the team's longest-tenured player, wrote in a social media post Friday, March 6, on Instagram, that he has requested his release from the team after 10 seasons.
Decker's post comes a little over a week after he wrote he intended to return for an 11th NFL season in 2026.
"Things change," Decker wrote "145 games started, 3 playoff appearances, 2 division titles, a decade carrying the shield. I fully intended to do it once again, but my time as a Lion is coming to an aned.
"In the weeks since notifying the team of my return there have been numerous discussions. Many of which were a surprise to me, and we could not find common ground. Therefore I decided to request my release."
Decker first disclosed to the Free Press he was considering retirement for family and health reasons in December and said after the season he might take a couple months to decide his future.
Last week, he posted a picture on Instagram of him running out of the tunnel at Ford Field in a black Lions uniform, with the caption: “'Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? And I said, 'Here am I; SEND ME!' #Year11"
Asked about Decker's future shortly before the post, Lions general manager Brad Holmes said, "Obviously Taylor, he’s earned the right to have as much space as he needs to reflect on a long season and we respect him, we give him that. But obviously with the start of the new league year coming, that’s obviously you want as much clarity as possible, so within these next couple of weeks we’ll make sure that we have that clarity."
The Lions now enter the free-agent negotiating period next week with multiple needs on the offensive line, including at left tackle - though All-Pro right tackle Penei Sewell could move to the position - and center.
Decker, who turns 33 in August, has been a fixture at left tackle for the Lions since they took him with their first-round pick, No. 16 overall, in the 2016 draft.
He's started 140 games over the past 10 seasons but has dealt with a variety of injuries throughout his career. Last year, Decker missed three games with a shoulder injury and played the rest of the year through nagging pain that he said made it difficult to do everyday things like pick up his kids and grab a cup off a shelf.
"Ideally, I would play. I would continue to play,” Decker told the Free Press in December. “But I just need to sit and evaluate, and … this is not a decision that I want to make now or kind of consider right now, cause it would be an emotional decision. 'Cause like I said, right now, this has not been a fun year. But I know if I remove those variables that have made it unfun, I still enjoy playing football. And I think I'm playing really well."
The Lions currently have three other tackles on their roster for 2026, All-Pro right tackle Penei Sewell and backups Gio Manu and Devin Cochran.
The Detroit Lions will need a new left tackle after all.
Taylor Decker, the team's longest-tenured player, wrote in a social media post Friday, March 6, on Instagram, that he has requested his release from the team after 10 seasons.
Decker's post comes a little over a week after he wrote he intended to return for an 11th NFL season in 2026.
"Things change," Decker wrote "145 games started, 3 playoff appearances, 2 division titles, a decade carrying the shield. I fully intended to do it once again, but my time as a Lion is coming to an aned.
"In the weeks since notifying the team of my return there have been numerous discussions. Many of which were a surprise to me, and we could not find common ground. Therefore I decided to request my release."
Decker first disclosed to the Free Press he was considering retirement for family and health reasons in December and said after the season he might take a couple months to decide his future.
Last week, he posted a picture on Instagram of him running out of the tunnel at Ford Field in a black Lions uniform, with the caption: “'Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? And I said, 'Here am I; SEND ME!' #Year11"
Asked about Decker's future shortly before the post, Lions general manager Brad Holmes said, "Obviously Taylor, he’s earned the right to have as much space as he needs to reflect on a long season and we respect him, we give him that. But obviously with the start of the new league year coming, that’s obviously you want as much clarity as possible, so within these next couple of weeks we’ll make sure that we have that clarity."
The Lions now enter the free-agent negotiating period next week with multiple needs on the offensive line, including at left tackle - though All-Pro right tackle Penei Sewell could move to the position - and center.
Decker, who turns 33 in August, has been a fixture at left tackle for the Lions since they took him with their first-round pick, No. 16 overall, in the 2016 draft.
He's started 140 games over the past 10 seasons but has dealt with a variety of injuries throughout his career. Last year, Decker missed three games with a shoulder injury and played the rest of the year through nagging pain that he said made it difficult to do everyday things like pick up his kids and grab a cup off a shelf.
"Ideally, I would play. I would continue to play,” Decker told the Free Press in December. “But I just need to sit and evaluate, and … this is not a decision that I want to make now or kind of consider right now, cause it would be an emotional decision. 'Cause like I said, right now, this has not been a fun year. But I know if I remove those variables that have made it unfun, I still enjoy playing football. And I think I'm playing really well."
The Lions currently have three other tackles on their roster for 2026, All-Pro right tackle Penei Sewell and backups Gio Manu and Devin Cochran.
As the Texas Longhorns look to put the finishing touches on their 2027 class, they got an encouraging update on Thursday. Five-star cornerback John Meredith III revealed which schools he will take official visits to, including the Longhorns. That visit will be June sixth and seventh, providing Steve Sarkisian and his staff with the opportunity to make their best pitch.Currently, the Texas native is ranked as the best cornerback in his class by 247Sports. They also rank Meredith as the top player from Texas and the fifth-best player in the nation. Due to his high ranking, the North Cowley High star has received offers from Alabama, Ohio State, Arizona State, and Texas A&M.
While Thursday's news was encouraging for Texas, they are not the only program Meredith locked in a visit with. Over the next few months, he will also make trips to Alabama, Texas A&M, and Ohio State. With those elite programs in the running, Sarkisian has his work cut out for him.
Although Meredith has frustrated offensive coordinators with his play, he has also made national headlines. The Longhorns target participated in the Under Armour All-America Game just a few months ago. He also earned MaxPreps Junior All-American honors during the 2025 campaign.
— Dave Campbell's — TexasFootball.com (@dctf) March 5, 2026
If Meredith were to commit to the Longhorns, he would join a talented 2027 class. That group includes four-star recruits such as Easton Royal and Cameron Hall. They will be joined by three-star prospects Cade Haug, Karnell James, Ty Knutson, and JT Geraci. Adding Meredith to that group would give Texas a top-five class.
Over the next few months, the Longhorns will be a program to keep an eye on as the elite cornerback narrows down his options. When he is on campus, Sarkisian will be able to show Meredith why his college career should include a stop in Austin.
Antonio Conte's men are looking for consistency in their race for the Champions League and want to put behind them the defeat from the first leg against the Granata. The Azzurri, third with 53 points, host a team that arrives in Fuorigrotta aiming to move definitively away from the dangerous zone of the standings.
🔴 Article constantly updated: for live text coverage, click on the match card above; to comment, click on the speech bubble at the top right
✅ OFFICIAL LINEUPS
NAPOLI (3-4-3): Milinkovic-Savic; Juan Jesus, Buongiorno, Olivera; Politano, Gilmour, Elmas, Spinazzola; Vergara, Hojlund, Alisson.
Franck Zambo Anguissa and especially Kevin De Bruyne return to the bench.
😱 PRE-MATCH CURIOSITIES ABOUT NAPOLI-TORINO
One precedent stands out: the last Napoli-Torino played on a Friday in March dates back to 2023/24 and ended 1-1, with Kvaratskhelia opening the scoring and Sanabria replying just three minutes later.
Chris Boyd has joined Gloucester on a lbasis after performing a similar role at Munster [Getty Images]
New Gloucester technical director Chris Boyd has warned that the team may have to "modify" its expansive style of rugby until they have the players to suit.
The New Zealander has taken up his post, on a consultancy basis, this month, and hinted that he feels that the current squad is not entirely suited to the type of game head coach George Skivington likes his side to play.
The Cherry and Whites have won just one of their 10 league games this season and are out of the running for silverware.
Boyd says those signings, made before he started, will add "a sprinkle of decent stardust" while he will also focus on bringing home-grown talent through the ranks.
On the style of play, which has been a bone of contention, Boyd told BBC Radio Gloucestershire: "The style probably isn't a historical Gloucester DNA.
"There are three parts to that - your philosophy on how you want to play the game, then that the philosophy aligns with the players we've got, and our game plan next year will be a reflection of the strengths and weaknesses of the team."
He added: "Something has to change. Either the players have to change or, more importantly in the short term, the coaches have to modify the way they want to play the game to suit the players.
"The biggest mistake you can make is to try to play a game that the players are not capable of playing.
"Most important is that the club and the coaching group is really clear what that looks like and that the players absolutely understand what the amount of structure is, what the freedom to make decision is, what the behaviour is in certain parts of the field - the risk and reward is around what you are trying to do."
'Everyone wants instant success but it doesn't always happen'
Boyd, who took Hurricanes to the Super Rugby title as coach in 2016 and is credited with improving Northampton Saints during his three seasons at Franklin Gardens, has been appointed alongside new rugby general manager Rob Burgess in a big shake-up of the hierarchy on the playing side at Kingsholm.
He is known as an attacking coach and said his job is to "help Skivs [head coach George Skivington] and the others pour some concrete into those foundations" and see "what can be built around that in the next three to five years".
Boyd added that the "quality" of recent arrivals Lake, Kleyn, Morgan and Robson will "help create the environment and accelerate the learning of the young players".
Boyd, who took the role on a consultancy basis because he does not want to leave his extended family in New Zealand for long periods, said he will visit Gloucester "four or five times" during the year.
And while Gloucester's results have been disappointing, Boyd said there were positives.
"Everyone wants instant success and it doesn't always happen.
"I've watched most of Gloucester's games this year and a couple of them haven't been good but in three or four games they've genuinely been unlucky."
Boyd says the addition of 'stardust' signings like Jean Kleyn are important to the development of the team [Getty Images]
WNBA and Unrivaled star Arike Ogunbowale was arrested in Miami while celebrating her team's championship
Ogunbowale allegedly punched a man at Club E11EVEN in Miami, multiple outlets reported
Her WNBA team, the Dallas Wings, and Unrivaled Basketball tell PEOPLE they were "aware" of the incident and gathering more details at this time
WNBA and Unrivaled star Arike Ogunbowale was arrested while celebrating her team's Unrivaled championship in Miami, her teams confirmed to PEOPLE.
Miami-Dade officers arrested Ogunbowale, 29, just before 4:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 5 after she allegedly punched a man while out with teammates at Club E11EVEN, USA Today reported. She was charged with misdemeanor battery and released after posting a $1,000 bond, per the outlet.
Andy Slater of Fox Sports said on Friday that the unidentified man fell to the ground after being struck by the WNBA star and that the incident was caught on camera.
Arike Ogunbowale on Jan. 23, 2026 Credit: Megan Briggs/Getty
Unrivaled Basketball said, "The league is aware of an incident involving Arike Ogunbowale and we are in the process of gathering additional information. We’re in contact with Arike and her representatives," in a statement to PEOPLE on Friday.
Ogunbowale's WNBA team, the Dallas Wings, also told PEOPLE on Friday that the organizations is "aware" of her arrest and "are in the process of gathering more information."
"Further comments will be provided once we have more details," the Wings said.
Ogunbowale scored 19 points in Unrivaled's championship game on Wednesday, March 4, where she and her Mist BC teammates, including WNBA star Breanna Stewart, won the title. After the win, Stewart told reporters, "What I'll remember the most about this Mist team is we might not be the loudest, but we're going to work the hardest," according to ESPN.
Ogunbowale reposted a video from Unrivaled to her Instagram Stories on Thursday, likely after she was released, from the Mist's celebrations in Miami.
"Who's on the aux?," Ogunbowale asked in the video, as the Mist took victory photos and partied at the club. "Rik had to make sure the vibes were right," read the TikTok.
Ogunbowale was drafted fifth overall by the Dallas Wings in 2019. She's a four-time WNBA all-star, two-time all-star MVP and held the league scoring title in 2020.
That leaves an opening in right field for the Mets, who have Brett Baty, Tyrone Taylor, and Mike Tauchman in the mix for the starting job. Trade acquisition Luis Robert Jr. is the leading man for the center field spot.
But what about Carson Benge, New York's No. 2 prospect on MLB Pipeline? The 23-year-old has posted an .857 OPS in each of his first two seasons in the minors, reaching Triple-A Syracuse near the conclusion of last year.
Benge is at Major League camp with the Mets as a non-roster invite, but he might need more at-bats in the minors before making an impact with the Major League squad.
"That caution is appropriate simply in light of the wall Benge hit in Triple-A last year, posting a .583 OPS in 24 games," wrote Rymer. "He also hasn't hit the ball especially hard (89.1 mph on average) this spring, and he has yet to take a walk."
The veteran Tauchman may have a leg up on the competition. He finished fourth among last year's Chicago White Sox hitters with a .756 OPS and second with 45 walks. His defensive prowess has averaged out, but he is a reliable veteran with 567 games played in his eight-year career.
UFC 326 lost one of its scheduled fights at Friday's official weigh-ins in Las Vegas, as Jeong Yeong Lee's featherweight bout against Gaston Bolanos was scrapped due to weight-cutting issues on Lee's side. Lee had stepped into the bout in late February as a short-notice replacement for Joo Sang Yoo.
Bolanos hit his targeted mark of 145.5 pounds for the matchup prior to the cancellation. UFC 326 will now proceed forward as a 12-fight card.
Fortunately, the same misfortune did not befall Saturday's main-event fighters, as both Max Holloway (155.5 pounds) and Charles Oliveira (156) made weight for their BMF title rematch.
Holloway, 34, and Oliveira, 36, fought once before in 2015, when both fighters were still in the infancies of their soon-to-be legendary careers, with Holloway winning via first-round stoppage due to injury.
Complete UFC 326 weigh-in results can be seen below.
Main card (9 p.m. ET, Paramount+)
Max Holloway (155.5) vs. Charles Oliveira (156)
Caio Borralho (186) vs. Reinier de Ridder (185.5)
Rob Font (136) vs. Raul Rosas Jr. (135.5)
Drew Dober (156) vs. Michael Johnson (155.5)
Gregory Rodrigues (186) vs. Brunno Ferreira (184)
Preliminary card (7 p.m. ET, Paramount+)
Cody Garbrandt (136) vs. Xiao Long (135.5)
Donte Johnson (185.5) vs. Cody Brundage (185.5)
Ricky Turcios (146) vs. Alberto Montes (145.5)
Cody Durden (125.5) vs. Nyamjargal Tumendemberel (125.5)
Early prelims (5 p.m. ET, Paramount+)
Sumudaerji (126) vs. Jesus Aguilar (125.5)
Rafael Tobias (204) vs. Diyar Nurgozhay (205.5)
Jeong Yeong Lee vs. Gaston Bolanos (145.5)*
Luke Fernandez (205) vs. Rodolfo Bellato (204.5)
*Fight canceled due to weight cut issues on Lee’s side
Nov 2, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Lions tackle Taylor Decker (68) enters the field before the game against the Minnesota Vikings at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-Imagn Images | David Reginek-Imagn Images
The Taylor Decker saga continues.
After announcing last week his intentions to play for the 2026 season, Decker announced on Instagram that he has requested his release from the Detroit Lions after talks broke down with the team.
Decker didn’t provide any specifics about those talks, only saying many of the conversations with the team were “a surprise” to the 10-year veteran.
The Lions’ left tackle was scheduled to make a $14.9 million salary this year, plus a $1.5 million bonus and up to $1.7 million in per-game bonuses, carrying a hefty cap hit of over $21 million. It is certainly possible the Lions approached him about a pay cut, or maybe they couldn’t guarantee him a starting spot on the roster.
If the Lions grant his release, they’ll clear up just north of $11.6 million in cap space, while eating $9.4 million in dead cap.
Things change, 145 games started, 3 playoff appearances, 2 division titles, a decade carrying the shield. I fully intended to do it once again, but my tie as a Lion is coming to an end. In my weeks since notifying the team of my return there have been numerous discussion. Many of which were a surprise to me, and we could not find common ground. Therefore I decided to request my release.
I am opting for a clean and amicable close to what has been such a beautiful 10 years going t war as a Lion.
The World Baseball Classic is underway, with each of the remaining three pools kicking off action on Friday. Team Venezuela started their tournament with a matchup against the Kingdom of the Netherlands, with new Boston Red Sox acquisition Ranger Suarez taking the mound for the opener.
World Baseball Classic rules state that starting pitchers are limited to 65 pitches in pool play to protect their arms before the regular season begins. Suarez threw 43 pitches over two innings of work, allowing one run on three hits, one walk and one strikeout.
Suarez's two innings of work were solid, but he looked to be shaking off the rust. He faced almost entirely right-handed hitters and commanded his cutter beautifully, keeping the pitch high and on the glove side. It jammed hitters, getting two foul balls, three called strikes and recorded two outs.
Where the trouble came was with his pitches on the arm side. He kept his sinker away from righties, but the ball was put in play five times, three of which went for hits. There was, however, an element of poor batted-ball luck at play, which isn't likely to be consistent over a full season.
Suarez's changeup, usually his best pitch, was the pitch that he struggled with the most. He landed the pitch on the arm side consistently, but it was often too far from the zone and wasn't enticing to hitters. He generated two whiffs on 14 pitches, a low rate considering the pitch was in the strike zone just once.
Overall, the start looked like another Spring Training outing for Suarez. His velocity and pitch shapes were in line with his 2025 season, but his command wasn't polished. With more time on the mound, look for Suarez to continue the success he had in 2025.
Ament, dealing with a high ankle sprain, has not practiced with the No. 25 Vols (21-9, 11-6 SEC) ahead of their final regular-season game against No. 22 Vanderbilt (23-7, 10-7) at Food City Center on March 7.
"I don't know that, if he's going to play," Tennessee coach Rick Barnes said before practice on March 6. "I know he's doing everything he possibly can through rehab. He's a model patient . . . I've said it before, if it was up to him, he'd play in every game, but obviously we've got to make sure that we're doing the right thing for him.
"We'll see today (if he's practicing). I think Chad (Newman, director of men's basketball sports medicine) had him doing a little running yesterday, but he didn't do anything with us. I think it's one of those deals where Chad might say he's doing better than expected, but still with that high ankle sprain, it takes time."
The 6-foot-10 freshman initially turned his right ankle when he landed awkwardly on a rebound attempt in the Feb. 24 loss to Missouri. He aggravated the injury in the first half against Alabama on Feb. 28, causing him to miss the rest of the game, which Tennessee lost 71-69.
Ament was ruled out against South Carolina, but the Vols didn't need him for the 78-59 blowout win on March 3. Ja'Kobi Gillespie's career-high 12 points drove a combined 42-point performance from J.P. Estrella and Felix Okpara.
Still, Ament wanted to get in the game.
"It speaks volumes," Barnes said about Ament's willingness to play through pain. "Nate, he's got so much depth to him. He loves the game of basketball. His DNA is such that he really cares about other people, he cares about this team, he cares about this program and it bothers him that he's not able to help us right now.
"He knows what we're trying to play for. But we know to get to the ultimate goal, we need him to be at his best."
Ament, dealing with a high ankle sprain, has not practiced with the No. 25 Vols (21-9, 11-6 SEC) ahead of their final regular-season game against No. 22 Vanderbilt (23-7, 10-7) at Food City Center on March 7.
"I don't know that, if he's going to play," Tennessee coach Rick Barnes said before practice on March 6. "I know he's doing everything he possibly can through rehab. He's a model patient . . . I've said it before, if it was up to him, he'd play in every game, but obviously we've got to make sure that we're doing the right thing for him.
"We'll see today (if he's practicing). I think Chad (Newman, director of men's basketball sports medicine) had him doing a little running yesterday, but he didn't do anything with us. I think it's one of those deals where Chad might say he's doing better than expected, but still with that high ankle sprain, it takes time."
The 6-foot-10 freshman initially turned his right ankle when he landed awkwardly on a rebound attempt in the Feb. 24 loss to Missouri. He aggravated the injury in the first half against Alabama on Feb. 28, causing him to miss the rest of the game, which Tennessee lost 71-69.
Ament was ruled out against South Carolina, but the Vols didn't need him for the 78-59 blowout win on March 3. Ja'Kobi Gillespie's career-high 12 points drove a combined 42-point performance from J.P. Estrella and Felix Okpara.
Still, Ament wanted to get in the game.
"It speaks volumes," Barnes said about Ament's willingness to play through pain. "Nate, he's got so much depth to him. He loves the game of basketball. His DNA is such that he really cares about other people, he cares about this team, he cares about this program and it bothers him that he's not able to help us right now.
"He knows what we're trying to play for. But we know to get to the ultimate goal, we need him to be at his best."
When Sherrone Moore was ousted from Michigan football, and Kyle Whittingham was brought in, one of the biggest questions was if he would be able to retain the Wolverines' top recruit in the 2026 class, Mineral (Va.) Louisa County five-star running back Savion Hiter.
But retained Hiter was, and now, he appears to be off to the races in winter conditioning for an early spot high up the depth chart.
Hiter is seen as a generational running back, the top of the class, but perhaps the most plug-and-play player at the position in some time. He's not considered to be a signee who will take some time to develop -- he's ready now.
Even so, there's some depth ahead of Hiter, with Jordan Marshall, Bryson Kuzdzal, and Micah Ka'apana returning. Still, his skillset is such that he should likely see time sooner than later, and can be an instant impact type of player -- beyond even where Donovan Edwards was in 2021, playing behind Hassan Haskins and Blake Corum.
ESPN profiled many of the top signees in 2026 and spoke about how Hiter fits into the current Wolverines team. There's one place that ESPN says he needs to develop, but otherwise, it sees a ton of early potential waiting to be unleashed.
Hiter is a strong, upright runner and a true power back. He runs with his shoulders square to the hole, can push the pile and routinely shows contact balance, falling forward to squeeze out every inch. He's tailor-made for late-game four-minute situations when you're trying to hang on to a lead.
He's also more nimble-footed in the hole than you'd expect from a pure power back, slipping ankle tackles and staying clean in tight spaces. Hiter doesn't have a lot of experience in the passing game and must develop in that area to become a complete three-down option. He walks into a Michigan running back room that features three redshirt freshmen, so there's a realistic opportunity to make an early dent in the rotation.
If Michigan is going to be a physical, point-of-attack team under new coach Kyle Whittingham -- something his track record suggests -- Hiter can help set the tone between the tackles. We expect him to be in the mix for early carries.
Hiter wasn't actually ESPN's top running back in the class, though he was to both 247Sports and Rivals. Regardless, he will be in the mix and could likely emerge as the No. 2 back in record time if early reports end up proving accurate.
Evan Ndicka is enjoying an extraordinary season, confirming the excellence he demonstrated last year.
The Ivorian defender has become one of Roma’s undisputed stalwarts, cementing his place among the best central defenders in Italy.
His performances continue to impress, not only for his defensive skills but also for his offensive contributions.
After a drought since arriving in the capital, Ndicka has finally found the back of the net in his last two Serie A matches against Cremonese and Juventus, providing crucial support to his team in crucial moments.
His form and versatility are now under the scrutiny of many European clubs.
According to Spanish portal Sport.es, Barcelona is looking for a left-footed central defender and has put Ndicka in their sights.
These are currently preliminary discussions, and the Catalan club is exploring several options, though they have not yet made a final decision. Flick’s team has other defenders on its list and will evaluate all options as the summer approaches, a time when significant developments could occur.
Despite growing interest from Barcelona, Ndicka’s departure is not yet a given.
Roma is aware of his financial situation and could consider offers should they arrive. However, the Ivorian is a key figure for Gian Piero Gasperini’s team, and his possible transfer could be a delicate decision for the Giallorossi, who are unlikely to want to part with one of their best players without a valid counterpart.
Barcelona Optimistic About Reaching A Deal For Italy & Inter Milan Star As Nerazzurri Ask For Eye-Watering Transfer Fee
Barcelona are increasingly confident they can secure a deal for Alessandro Bastoni this summer, with both sporting director Deco and head coach Hansi Flick convinced the Inter Milan and Italy defender would be an immediate upgrade, despite the Nerazzurri’s eye-watering valuation of over €80 million.
According to Spanish outlet Sport, via FCInter1908, Barcelona view Bastoni as a top priority and are approaching negotiations with quiet optimism.
Deco met with the player’s representatives earlier this year to gauge his openness to a move to the Camp Nou.
That conversation went well.
Barcelona now believe Bastoni is receptive to their interest, particularly given the uncomfortable atmosphere that has surrounded him in Italy following the Inter-Juventus controversy.
Barcelona Ready To Test Inter Resolve Over Bastoni
GENOA, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Alessandro Bastoni of Inter celebrates after the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and FC Internazionale at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Sport are direct in their assessment of his situation.
“The tension is palpable and Bastoni does not feel at ease in Italy,” they write, adding that this discomfort could accelerate his departure as early as June.
Barcelona have a clear roadmap and believe a deal with Inter is possible, though they know the path will not be straightforward.
The sticking point is financial.
Inter value Bastoni at above €80 million, a fee Barcelona would need to negotiate down.
Their ability to do so depends largely on the player’s own involvement, if Bastoni pushes for the move after receiving an offer from the Catalans, Inter’s negotiating position weakens considerably.
The club will also present him with a contract renewal in the coming months, adding another dimension to what could become a defining transfer saga of the summer window.
"He has enormous potential. He has everything: pace, technique, finishing, left foot, right foot, dribbling," explained the Polish international, convinced that confidence remains the key. "Marcus is the kind of player who can give you 200% if you believe in him and give him confidence.", said the Pole.
As a reminder, the Catalan club has the option to keep the British striker, with a buyout clause set at €30 million.
Emmanuel Longelo's determination to aim for the top meant a title challenge was in his thoughts when he arrived at Motherwell last summer.
Few others would have considered that a possibility but Motherwell can go seven points off the top of the Scottish Premiership when they take on Dundee in their game in hand at Dens Park on Saturday.
Longelo's optimism is coupled with the awareness that he must focus on the task in hand rather than getting carried away with what might be possible come May.
"I thought I was coming into a good team, a good club with good morals, wonderful people," he said.
"Fighting for the league is something I had at the back of my mind. Obviously, you play to win. So I came up and set my targets.
"Expectations are just expectations. You've got to rise above it and reach for the ultimate goal."
Winning on Saturday would give Motherwell the chance to move second when they travel to Celtic Park seven days later.
"It's a massive opportunity," Longelo said. "We want to be amongst the top. So we'll definitely go in there with full fight.
"We've got to be 100% focused on the game and get the job done because we know that we can't afford to drop any points."
The New England Patriots have been linked to A.J. Brown in trade rumors, but a deal may not be close.
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, A.J. Brown will either play for the Patriots or the Philadelphia Eagles next season. However, according to NFL insider Dianna Russini, no team has made an official offer yet.
"While teams have been internally discussing potential trade packages for A.J. Brown, no team has made an official offer to the Eagles, per multiple sources," Russini wrote on X on Friday.
Rapoport's report suggests that the Patriots are the last real contender in trade talks, and Russini suggests that other teams are discussing a trade. Seemingly, the Patriots want him the most, but even they have not submitted an offer to the Eagles.
The belief around the league is that the Eagles reportedly have a high price tag on Brown. Understandably, teams do not want to give up a lot for an expensive receiver nearing 30 years of age. However, the Patriots currently have a hole in the receiver room, and could end up feeling desperate enough to get a trade done.
The Patriots will not have Stefon Diggs next season. He was their leading receiver, and the Patriots need to replace him. If they are unable to land a star receiver early in free agency, they could get more aggressive in pursuit of Brown.
Jan 4, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson (18) warms up prior to the game against the Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images | Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
The legal tampering period of NFL free agency will officially be upon us at 11:00 AM Central time on Monday morning, and it appears that the Minnesota Vikings may have finally gotten themselves under the league’s salary cap with a couple of contract restructures.
The Vikings are doing simple restructures on the contracts of star WR Justin Jefferson and LT Christian Darrisaw to clear salary cap space, per sources. Still work to do to get under the cap by Wednesday. pic.twitter.com/nDyvH0R9hz
According to Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network, the Vikings are doing restructures of the contracts of wide receiver Justin Jefferson and offensive tackle Christian Darrisaw. The moves will, reportedly, free up somewhere in the neighborhood of $27 million in salary cap space. Combined with the other moves that the Vikings will reportedly be making ahead of the new league year, such as releasing running back Aaron Jones and defensive linemen Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, it appears that the Vikings will have cleared out enough space to get them under the league’s salary cap, and there are still moves that they can make prior to the 3:00 PM Central time deadline on Wednesday, 11 March.
The restructures for Jefferson and Darrisaw are simply moves that will push their guaranteed money down the road a bit. Given that both players are definitively in the long-term plans for the franchise, it’s a no-brainer to make the move to get the team compliant now and potentially allow them to make some moves when free agency officially gets underway.
We’ll be keeping an eye on any other moves the team makes ahead of Monday’s legal tampering opening and the official start of the new league year on Wednesday, and as soon as anything hits we will bring you word of it right here as soon as we’re able.
Most Valuable Promotions, the company co-founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021, announced a multi-year broadcast agreement with ESPN in the United States Friday.
Alongside the media rights deal, MVP confirmed the launch of an official women's boxing league, MVPW, which boasts 43 fighters. ESPN will be the home of MVPW events through 2028.
Said Paul and Bidarian:
"Since inception MVP has strategically focused on creating an umbrella brand as the global home for women’s boxing, with the best fighters in the world, that engages existing boxing fans and attracts untapped fan demographics that embrace women’s sport, and today, we proudly enter a new era."
"Over the past five years, we have invested heavily in female athletes, delivered historic and record-breaking events, and proven that these athletes belong on the biggest stages in the sport. Partnering with ESPN, the worldwide leader in sports, to launch MVPW across its platforms is a historic milestone, and aligning with the world’s most iconic venue, Madison Square Garden, as we introduce the brand in the U.S. reinforces the scale and ambition behind what we are building.
The first of these events, MVPW-01, takes place on April 5 in London, England and is headlined by a Caroline Dubios vs. Terri Harper lightweight unification bout. That event also airs on Sky Sports in the UK, which is understood to be another longterm media rights partner MVP is expected to confirm.
MVPW will debut in the United States on April 17 with MVPW-02, which is headlined by the unified super featherweight champion Alycia Baumgardner taking on Bo Mi Re Shin at Madison Square Garden's Hulu Theatre. The third event in the league will see Stephanie Han defend her WBA lightweight title in a rematch against Holly Holm on May 30 in El Paso, Texas.
It is a major deal for MVP and women's boxing. At a time when major U.S. promoters — namely Top Rank and Golden Boy Promotions — are without TV deals, and Dana White's Zuffa Boxing is making an aggressive play into the sport, MVP has solidified its position as the home of women's boxing and owns deals with the biggest networks in the US and the UK to showcase its events.
Photo by Jacques Feeney/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
Edu Gaspar could be heading back to Brazilian football as reports link the former Arsenal director with a potential role at Flamengo.
The Brazilian currently works within Evangelos Marinakis’ football group, but his situation in England has become increasingly uncertain.
Recent reports suggest that the former midfielder may already be under pressure to step away from his position as Nottingham Forest’s Global Head of Football, raising the possibility of a return to South America.
Edu Gaspar under pressure amid Nottingham Forest situation
Photo by Crystal Pix/MB Media/Getty Images
According to ESPN Brasil, Edu has been facing growing pressure to resign from his role at the City Ground just eight months after joining the organisation.
The report claims internal tensions have emerged behind the scenes, casting doubt over his long-term future within the structure.
Meanwhile, reports in England have suggested Edu was even told to ‘stay away’ from Nottingham Forest’s stadium and training ground as the situation escalated.
The developments have fuelled speculation that the former Arsenal sporting director could soon be open for a new opportunity elsewhere.
Flamengo monitoring Edu Gaspar as sporting director future becomes uncertain
One possible destination could be Flamengo, who are reportedly considering changes in their football leadership.
The Brazilian club recently enjoyed major success, winning both the Copa Libertadores and the Brasileirao.
However, the position of current sporting director, Jose Boto, has become even more uncertain following the controversial dismissal of head coach Filipe Luis.
Despite Flamengo’s president backing the call, Boto’s future is now in doubt.
Edu has emerged as a possible candidate to take over the role if Flamengo decide to make changes at the top of their football department.
Ogunbowale was arrested at 4:22 a.m. at the nightclub E11EVEN on a misdemeanor battery charge. The 4-time WNBA All-Star allegedly punched a man who was attempting to escort her out of the establishment due to an "unrelated altercation." The alleged punch caused the victim to fall to the ground.
Ogunbowale was then taken into custody.
Footage from the nightclub was reviewed and confirmed the alleged victim's statement, according to court records.
Oct 12, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) celebrates with wide receiver Alec Pierce (14) after Jones scores a touchdown during a game against the Arizona Cardinals at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christine Tannous-USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images | Christine Tannous-USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images
Does anyone feel optimistic about what the Indianapolis Colts are doing was the question, but maybe a better one is, what exactly are the Colts doing right now? For years, my personal gripe has been that this franchise is directionless. This lack of direction starts at the top with Chris Ballard and has been one of the driving forces in wanting to watch him walk out the door. Well, here we are. Another offseason and another batch of what the heck is going on?
Some might point to the team’s lack of a first-round pick the next two years as a point of contention. In the scheme of things, that is the least of my worries, considering they got Sauce Gardner in the deal. It stinks not having a pick this year, but it wasn’t like they set it on fire. Like many of you, I am a bit baffled by the transition tag regarding how and on whom it was used. Unable to reach a deal, the Colts used the seldom seen transition tag which locks up their cap space and hitches them to a questionable quarterback coming off a severe injury for $37.8 million next year. The alternative to that is he walks away and the Colts get nothing in return. That sure seems like a raw deal.
Retaining Daniel Jones seemed like the desired move, but a long-term deal should have been the outcome because now it is likely Alec Pierce is gone. Using the tag on Jones means the Colts didn’t have that option for Pierce. Letting him test free agency after a big year in a slim market spells trouble. If Pierce walks, what do the Colts do at receiver? Does that become their first pick in this year’s draft? It would have been nice to focus on another area of need, but there is a clear hole there now. This team is like whack-a-mole. Ballard goes in every direction chasing after things instead of having a clear cut plan. This offseason exemplifies the definition of insanity.
Everything could work out. The Colts might be able to keep both players. Does that set this franchise up for ultimate success? Recent memory of what we saw on the field says no, but that doesn’t mean they can’t find some success. Without one or both, this team certainly isn’t better than last year. That much is for sure. The safe bet is that Daniel Jones is back and Alec Pierce is gone. How that could inspire confidence and optimism going forward, I’m not sure. The Colts gambled, and if Pierce walks, they lost.
"We're in the main event of the Elimination Chamber. Everybody had just crushed it throughout the entire night. It was my moment to shine," Rollins said. "I gotta get in there. I'm staring across from that idiot Logan Paul. I'm just looking at him right in his little beady eyes. So excited I get to stomp his head into the ground. I do the deed and I'm just trying to soak it in. The hardest thing in that moment is to not move. It's the hardest thing in the world because the energy is off the charts. You know when you hit that moment, when you hit that stomp, you hit that big hit, you want to just lose it. All the adrenaline going through your body, the hardest thing to do is just stand there and soak it in, but it was nice. It felt really good to be back."
As a way to write him off television from a legitimate shoulder injury, Rollins' Vision stablemates Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed attacked him on the first "WWE Raw" episode following WWE Crown Jewel. In Rollins' place, Logan Paul and Austin Theory then came aboard The Vision, with the former competing for a WrestleMania title match inside the Men's Elimination Chamber.
On the heels of his WWE return, Rollins is reportedly on track for a WrestleMania 42 match against Breakker. Should Breakker, who is currently recovering from hernia surgery, not be medically cleared in time for the grand event, Paul is said to be facing Rollins instead.
If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit "Good Morning Football" with a h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.
Iran’s women’s soccer team has been labelled “wartime traitors” by an Iranian state television presenter after its players did not sing the national anthem before a match.
FIFPRO Asia/Oceania, the continental division of the world players’ union, said on Friday it has written to tournament organisers the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and world governing body FIFA to request they “urgently engage” with the Iranian Football Federation and the government of Australia to “ensure every effort is made to protect the safety of the players”.
“In addition to the dangerous situation the players would face if they return to Iran following the tournament, FIFPRO Asia/Oceania is deeply concerned by reports that Iranian state television has publicly attacked the members of the team for remaining silent during the national anthem before their opening match,” the statement added.
Iran’s team remained silent during the playing of its national anthem before the side’s Asian Cup opener against South Korea earlier this week. The players did sing the anthem while saluting ahead of their game against Australia three days later.
The Athletic has verified the broadcast and contacted the AFC, FIFA, the Iranian Football Federation and the government of Australia for comment.
“Let me just say one thing: traitors during wartime must be dealt with more severely,” Shahbazi said, referencing the non-singing before the opening game. “Anyone who takes a step against the country under war conditions must be dealt with more severely.
“Like this matter of our women’s football team not singing the national anthem, and that photo that was published and so on, which I won’t get into. These people must be dealt with more severely.
“This is no longer just a symbolic protest move or the like. In a war situation, in this state of affairs, where they strike and martyr students and seven-to-eight-year-old girls in schools, where they attack the neonatal ward of a hospital, where they hit stadiums.
“For you to go there and not sing the national anthem; this is the pinnacle of dishonour and lack of patriotism. Both the people and the officials should treat these individuals as wartime traitors, not as if they just had a protest or performed a symbolic act.
“The stigma of dishonour and betrayal must remain on their foreheads, and separately they must be dealt with properly.”
Iran’s national anthem is tied to the 1979 Islamic revolution, which brought in a theocracy — a country ruled by religious leaders — which, until his death on Saturday, was headed by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.
In the 2022 men’s World Cup, Iran’s players refused to sing the national anthem ahead of their opening game against England, but did so in the following games against Wales and the United States. That tournament was played with the backdrop of widespread protests against Iran’s conservative clerical leadership.
On Wednesday, Iran forward Sara Didar said the team is “concerned and sad” for the country and their loved ones during the ongoing war.
Iran, which lost its opening two matches, plays its final group game against the Philippines on Sunday. A win by several goals for Iran could see them qualify for the quarter-final stage as one of the best third-placed group sides.
The ongoing conflict has thrown Iran’s participation in this summer’s men’s World Cup, being held across the U.S., Canada and Mexico, into question.
U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he “really (doesn’t) care” if Iran participates in this summer’s tournament.
Regular-season basketball play will come to an end on Saturday for No. 25 Tennessee (21-9, 11-6 SEC). The Vols will host No. 22 Vanderbilt (23-7, 10-7 SEC) at Food City Center. Rankings reflect the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll.
Tipoff between the Vols and Commodores is slated for 2 p.m. EST. ESPN will televise the in-state matchup with Matt Schumacker (play-by-play) and Richard Hendrix (analyst) on the call.
Lunardi projects the Vols as a No. 5 seed in Portland, Oregon. The Vols are projected to face No. 12 seed Liberty in the first round. The winner would advance to play either No. 4 seed Virginia or No. 13 seed California Baptist in the second round.
The SEC Tournament will be contested March 11-15 at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee.
Selection Sunday for the NCAA Tournament is scheduled for March 15, while the First Four will take place March 17-18 and the first round will be contested March 19-20. The Final Four is scheduled for April 4-6 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana.
The Miami Dolphins may have both of their starting offensive tackles set to return for the 2026, but with Austin Jackson under contract for just one more season and backups Larry Borom, Yodny Cajuste, Kendall Lamm, Germain Ifedi and Obinna Eze all hitting free agency, the position should be high on the priority list.
The Dolphins could sign a veteran in free agency, or look for a depth option and/or future starter in the 2026 NFL draft.
With that, KPRC2's Aaron Wilson reported on Thursday that Miami met with offensive tackle Jake Pope at Illinois State's Pro Day.
Pope has local ties to the state as he played high school football at St. Thomas Aquinas in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, before committing to Kentucky, where he spent three years.
After his time with the Wildcats, where he never played in the regular season, Pope transferred to Illinois State and became the starting right tackle after missing most of his first year due to injury.
The 6-foot-6 tackle earned All-Conference and FCS All-American honors in 2025 and helped his team get to the national championship. He also took some snaps at left tackle, showing NFL teams that he could be an intriguing swing prospect at the position.
Miami needs depth at tackle, and Pope will probably be a Day-3 pick, so they could bring him in and allow him to grow without giving up too much.
Rodri eyed for significant pay rise as player’s camp issue early stance on Manchester City contract renewal
The Offer: Man City ready to make Rodri the second-highest earner.
The Stance: Rodri’s camp has issued noises regarding a long-term commitment.
The Context: Renewal to ward off Real Madrid interest.
Manchester City are prepared to hand Rodri a significant increase on his current salary in an attempt to keep the midfielder at the Etihad Stadium beyond 2027.
The 29-year-old remains the undisputed heartbeat of Pep Guardiola’s side, having successfully navigated a challenging road to full fitness following his ACL injury in late 2024.
Despite the 2025 arrivals of Tijjani Reijnders and Nico Gonzalez in the summer and January respectively, Rodri’s influence on Manchester City’s tactical discipline remains unparalleled as the club chases significant silverware in the final months of the 2025/26 campaign.
Speculation regarding a potential return to Madrid – with both Real and Atletico mentioned in reports – has simmered in the background since the turn of the year. However, with City currently trailing Arsenal by seven points in the Premier League, the hierarchy is eager to eliminate any off-field distractions by tying down their most decorated midfielder.
How Rodri could compete with Man City’s top earners
According to the information of Manchester City insider ‘Tolmie’s Hairdoo’ on X, those within the Etihad Stadium are willing to make Rodri the second highest-paid player at the club, behind only Erling Haaland’s £375,000-per-week.
It is claimed that the Spain international has been solely focused on his fitness, but his representatives have now provided ‘positive noises’ that he still wants to stay at Manchester City and commit the ‘remainder of his peak years’ to the Citizens.
A clear statement of intent and hands-off warning
The move to renew Rodri’s terms is a clear indicator of Hugo Viana’s strategy to blend Manchester City’s world-class core with the refreshed younger profiles brought in over the last three transfer windows.
While younger talents like Rayan Cherki, Nico O’Reilly and Abdukodir Khusanov represent the future, the club’s board views Rodri as the essential bridge required to maintain elite standards during this period of transition.
As City prepare for the FA Cup fifth round trip to Newcastle and the Champions League last-16 against Real Madrid, the timing of contract reports is no coincidence. and securing a verbal green light from Rodri’s camp could provide a significant psychological boost heading into the definitive final quarter of the season.
The move would also act as a clear hands-off warning to Manchester City’s upcoming European opponents, who have long been tipped as an interested party for Rodri – depending on his recovery from his 2024 ACL injury.
Paying the ‘Best in the World’ what he’s worth
Among the regulars at the Etihad Stadium, the debate isn’t about ifRodri should get a pay rise, but rather how quickly the club can get him to sign it.
City fans saw the chaos of the 2024/25 season when Rodri was sidelined – a lack of control, defensive fragility in particular – and no one wants to revisit that.
While Erling Haaland grabs the headlines, Rodri is the player who actually makes the ‘Pep-system’ possible in the eyes of many. And to the fans, making him the second-highest earner isn’t just a financial decision, but a mark of respect for the only Ballon d’Or winner in the club’s history.
Should Rodri commits his peak years to the Etihad Stadium, it sends a very clear message to the rest of Europe that the Manchester City dynasty isn’t going anywhere, despite debates over whether the dominance of Guardiola’s previous sides is merely a chapter in history.
De Rossi has ‘desire for redemption’ against Roma, sends message to Dybala
Former Roma star Daniele De Rossi, now the Genoa coach, has a ‘desire for redemption’ against the Giallorossi after December’s 3-1 loss at the Olimpico.
Roma visit De Rossi’s Genoa on Sunday, and the former midfielder previewed the game at a press conference on Friday.
Genoa vs. Roma – De Rossi’s pre-match press conference
“On Sunday, there will be many people I care about, and I’ll want to hug. In the meantime, I send a hug to Dybala, but Roma are very strong even without him,” De Rossi said via Corriere dello Sport.
“I hug him as I did when he became a father,” De Rossi said.
Sebastian Otoa and Brooke Norton-Cuffy remain in doubt for Genoa.
“I still don’t know if they’ll be called up. The positive news is that they’re doing much better, and we have great confidence regarding all the injured players,” De Rossi said.
“Baldanzi surely won’t be there, but he also gives us hope. We’ve lost him, but I don’t think for very long.”
Roma and Genoa already met recently, with the Grifone suffering a 3-1 away loss in late December.
GENOA, ITALY – JANUARY 12: Daniele De Rossi, head coach of Genoa, looks on during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on January 12, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
“The reverse fixture was our worst match since I’ve been here, despite mistakes made in other games as well and despite the opponent’s strength,” noted De Rossi.
“Roma’s value is unquestionable; what we lacked was the reaction. We’ve played against teams that dominated us like Napoli or Atalanta, but the reaction was always there.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Coach Daniele De Rossi of Genoa CFC reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and Genoa CFC at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 15, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
“On Sunday, we’ll have to be ready for anything. We’ve always done well at home, and the crowd is positive and really pushes us. I always tell my friends to come and watch Genoa here to understand.
“We know what kind of match we need to play. There’s also a bit of desire for redemption on our part for what we did in the reverse fixture. That was the only time I’ve looked at myself in the mirror and not been proud of myself; the only time I went home and asked a couple of questions.”
Brazil faces a tall task in its first game of the World BAseball Classic, as the team will go up against Team USA in Houston, Texas.
The Brazilians are in the tournament thanks to earning a spot in the qualifiers, making them one of the biggest underdogs in the entire WBC. With a huge challenge awaiting, the team will start pitcher Bo Takahashi against Team USA in search of a massive upset.
Takahashi is a veteran pitcher who has been with Team Brazil for the past decade, but most casual baseball fans in America may not be familiar with his work. Here's why Takahashi is leading Brazil in the WBC.
Why Bo Takahashi is playing for Brazil in World Baseball Classic
Rodrigo "Bo" Takahashi was born in Brazil in 1997, making him one of the native Brazilians on the team. The 29-year-old is also of Japanese descent, but he is representing his birth country in the WBC.
Takahashi has competed for Team Brazil in its quest to return to the WBC over the past decade. The right-hander pitched for Brazil in WBC qualifiers in both 2016 and 2025, and he now gets to make his WBC debut in 2026 for Brazil against the United States.
"I think it's every athlete's dream to represent their home country," Takahashi told USA Today. "Just to be here at the Houston Astros field, it's an amazing experience."
Takahashi added that Brazil is an up-and-coming baseball country, and the team is embracing the underdog mentality during the WBC.
"The pressure is on them," he said. "We're here to show what we are, what is Team Brazil, and for sure show them that we are an amazing team, a great team."
Takahashi has never pitched in the World Baseball Classic before, but he did compete for Brazil in past WBC qualifiers. In 2016, Takahashi allowed one run in four innings during a qualifier loss, then in 2025, he allowed one run in 2.1 innings during a different qualifier loss.
Seibu Lions RHP Bo Takahashi is on Brazil’s roster for the 2025 WBC Qualifiers 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/1flPspkbWh
Zoe Backstedt is the British time trial champion [Getty Images]
Zoe Backstedt powered to victory in the opening individual time trial of the Vuelta a Extremadura in Spain.
The Welsh cyclist beat nearest rival Brodie Chapman by 12 seconds to secure her first win of the 2026 season.
She pedalled across the rain-soaked 18km course to finish in a time of 24 minutes and 30 seconds to take the yellow leader's jersey and the white jersey, awarded to the best-placed rider age under 26.
The race is held over three stages in western Spain with a 132km stage from Pueblonuevo del Guadiana to Fuente del Maestre before Sunday's third and final mountain stage.
There will not be any heated seats waiting for Premier League leaders Arsenal at Mansfield Town on Saturday, but there will be the smell of a fresh lick of paint at the 10,000-capacity One Call Stadium.
Mansfield's first appearance in the fifth round of the FA Cup for more than half a century is also one of the highest-profile games in the club's 129-year history.
Chief executive Carolyn Radford freely admits that the League One club are much more used to the "unglamorous" side of football – the freezing winter treks to rivals both near and far flung in the lower reaches of the professional game.
This is a side who have taken on the likes of Worksop and Kettering during the 15 years in which Carolyn and her husband John have backed Mansfield's rise from non-league level to League One.
"This is what football is, days like this which mean everything," she tells BBC East Midlands Today.
"You have all those unglamorous matches, rainy Tuesday games away with a four- or five-hour drive back home, just to get up for work the next day.
"For supporters and for us it makes everything worthwhile, and shows that it doesn't matter if expectations say you shouldn't do something."
More bums on seats - just not heated seats
Huge sums of money have been ploughed into Mansfield Town since John Radford bought the club in 2010.
The Stags were a cash-strapped non-league side then, and did not own their ground or training facility.
They now own both, and have since moved up two divisions and quadrupled their average home attendance to about 8,000 in that time.
And yet, for all the years of development, getting ready to host Arsenal has been likened to preparing for a "shotgun wedding", according to Carolyn, as "there is not much time between rounds to kind of embrace it".
Minor improvements – be it a coat of paint or fixing taps – have been rushed through in the weeks since Mansfield's upstaging of Premier League side Burnley in the fourth round.
Still, John says Arsenal will just have to do without some of the luxuries that they are used to for Saturday's lunchtime kick-off (12:15 GMT).
"We were at Burnley the other week and their boardroom had heated seats. Now, we don't quite have heated seats, but Mansfield is always sunny," the club owner and chairman says with a laugh.
It was from those toasty seats at Turf Moor that the Radfords watched Mansfield fight back from a goal down to beat Burnley in February, with second-half goals from Rhys Oates and Louis Reed helping Nigel Clough's Stags through.
It set Mansfield up for the tie with Arsenal, a side that John admits he "keeps an eye on", but in the same breath he leaves little doubt that he is "Mansfield through and through".
He does, however, relish the fact that the win against Burnley means Mansfield have beaten more Premier League sides in 2026 than Arsenal's north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur have managed.
"There was a lot of excitement and high fives in the household when the draw was made," he says.
And there could be no more fearsome prospect for the mid-table League One club than the Gunners – a side who sit 59 places above them in the football pyramid and boast a 100% winning record in the Champions League.
Mansfield's best run in the FA Cup for 51 years has included two FA Cup upsets already, with the win at Burnley coming after they bundled Championship side Sheffield United out, as well as a penalty shootout win against Accrington Stanley.
"We've earned the right to be here," John says. "Unfortunately, it's against Arsenal, who are top of the Premier League at the moment and on fire."
But Mansfield's millionaire backer was not shy about saying the aim is to continue the club's rise of recent years to make such fixtures more of a norm.
This from an owner whose side not only beat Burnley in the FA Cup, but also faced Premier League side Everton in the Carabao Cup earlier this season.
"It's been a labour of love," he says of his time as Mansfield's owner.
"It's been nice seeing the progress, and while we've had some bad times too, it can only get better and it will hopefully go forward in the right direction for years to come."
A new rumor suggests the Minnesota Vikings may be close to signing JJ McCarthy’s competition for the 2026 NFL season.
After former first-round pick McCarthy disappointed in his second season in Minnesota, reports quickly emerged after the season came to a close that the organization intends to bring in a veteran QB to serve as potential competition for the 23-year-old in training camp this summer.
Well, that player could be signed soon. In a new report from SNY’s Connor Hughes, the NFL insider claimed that the New York Jets have interest in soon to be released two-time Pro Bowler Kyler Murray. Yet, despite being a top target for the QB-needy team, Hughes added, “The resounding belief from multiple sources, though, is that he will sign with the Vikings.”
The Arizona Cardinals informed Murray this week that they will cut him when the new league year officially begins next week.
When the Cardinals used the 1st overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft on Murray, there was hope he could be the franchise quarterback they’ve lacked for decades. After his first three seasons, it seemed like they hit on the pick as he earned Pro Bowl honors in 2020 and 2021. However, in the four seasons since, Murray has regressed. Part of it is due to injuries. However, even when he has been on the field, he hasn’t been as effective as he was early in his career.
Nevertheless, Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell has developed a reputation as a QB guru, and it makes sense for Murray to want to go to Minnesota in the hopes of returning to his Pro Bowl form. If the 28-year-old can get back to being the player he was in 2020 and 2021, the Vikings will be a serious Super Bowl contender next season.
The Patriots will be keeping one of their reserve quarterbacks for 2026.
Tommy DeVito has agreed to re-sign with New England on a two-year deal, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Schefter notes the contract is worth $7.4 million with $2 million guaranteed.
DeVito, 27, was New England’s third quarterback in 2025 behind Drake Maye and Joshua Dobbs. He did not appear in a game.
DeVito does have experience from the previous two seasons with the Giants, having appeared in 12 games with eight starts. He’s completed 65.3 percent of his career passes for 1,358 yards with eight touchdowns and three interceptions.
GLENDALE, ARIZONA - JANUARY 8: Markel Bell #70 of the Miami Hurricanes reacts after a touchdown in the second half during the CFP Semifinal Vrbo Fiesta Bowl against the Ole Miss Rebels at State Farm Stadium on January 8, 2026 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by CFP/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Pittsburgh Steelers are hosting University of Miami offensive tackle Markel Bell to a pre-draft visit, per Brooke Pryor of ESPN.
Bell is 6-foot-9 and weighs 346 pounds, and ran a very impressive 5.36 second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine.
The Steelers have until May 1st to decide if they are picking up the fifth-year option of former first round pick left tackle Broderick Jones, which would cost them just over $19 million in 2027. Dylan Cook stepped in and played well in the final month of the season.
Bell was a 2025 Third-Team All-ACC selection and allowed zero sacks last season.
Let us know what you think in the comments. Be sure to bookmark Behind the Steel Curtain for all the latest news, breakdowns, and more!
Brooks, who is in his first season with the Suns, was reportedly arrested in Scottsdale, Arizona.
The veteran forward has been out for nearly two weeks with a broken hand, but was averaging a career-high 20.9 points per game for Phoenix before his injury.
Here's what's known about Brooks' DUI arrest.
Dillon Brooks arrest details
TMZ reported Friday that Brooks was arrested in Scottsdale for suspicion of DUI.
Police arrested Brooks around 2 a.m. local time on Friday, March 6, per TMZ, and he was released from custody around 3:20 a.m. Brooks was "respectful and cooperative before being released," the outlet reported.
The Athletic also confirmed Brooks' arrest for suspicion of DUI, with police telling the outlet that Brooks was" stopped for traffic violations just south of Thunderbird Road on Scottsdale Road around 1 a.m." He was arrested around 30 minutes later on suspicion of driving under the influence, then taken to Scottsdale City Jail for booking before his release around 3:30 a.m.
According to The Athletic, the city prosecutor’s office will determine charges for Brooks. The Suns also released a statement.
“We are aware of the situation involving Dillon Brooks and are gathering more information,” Stacey Mitch, the Suns’ senior vice president of communications, told The Athletic in a statement. “We have no further comment at this time.”
TMZ also obtained Brooks' mugshot:
🚨 EXCLUSIVE: Phoenix Suns' Dillon Brooks was arrested for DUI in Scottsdale.
It has been nearly a week since it happened, but the viral tiff between Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick and his superstar point guard Luka Doncic has remained a topic of conversation on social media.
As the Lakers continue chasing a top-four seed in the Western Conference playoffs, Redick has been keen to dismiss his courtside exchange with Doncic, which took place during the Lakers' 129-101 blowout win over the Golden State Warriors on Saturday.
Still, a new video purportedly reveals just what was said in the heated conversation between Doncic and Redick as fan interest in the argument remains high.
The lip-reading, courtesy of LegendZ Productions on YouTube, indicates that Redick was upset with Doncic when Doncic "pushed" the coach's hand away as he was returning to the bench.
The video goes on to claim that Redick demanded to know why Doncic was upset, but Doncic claimed he "didn't" push Redick's hand away and was not upset.
Doncic then expressed mild astonishment when Redick allegedly told him to "sit the f--- down."
Luka Doncic and JJ Redick sideline interaction 👀
JJ: “What’s your problem? Huh? You pushed my hand away. What are you upset about?”
The Lakers (37-25) are more than ready to move on from the viral exchange, especially as they are only 1.5 games out of the #4 seed in the West. They host the struggling Indiana Pacers at Crypto.com Arena on Friday night.
MADISON, WISCONSIN - MARCH 04: Nick Boyd #2 of the Wisconsin Badgers reacts in the final moments of a game against the Maryland Terrapins at Kohl Center on March 04, 2026 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Now, that’s how you end Senior Day at the Kohl Center.
The Wisconsin Badgers put forth their best defensive effort of the season and trounced the Maryland Terrapins 78-45. The Badgers held the Terrapins to a 30 percent field goal shooting percentage for the entire game, including allowing a mere nine three-pointers on 31 attempts. In addition, the Badgers forced 10 Terrapin turnovers and outscored Maryland 16-3 on points after turnovers.
Unfortunately, Nolan Winter’s injury in the second half of the game cast a dark cloud over the game. The junior forward fell to the floor after hitting an impressive tip-in layup in the second half, writhing in pain with an ankle injury. Winter was assisted to the locker room without putting much, if any, weight on his left ankle. Thankfully, a Wisconsin spokesman announced that Winter is “day-to-day” with a lower-body injury. With or without Winter, the Badgers will be in for a tough contest against Purdue on Saturday.
Here are three standouts from Wisconsin’s win over Maryland:
Braeden Carrington
Once again, the Badgers’ super-sub does it again in his last home game. Carringotn led all Badgers’ scorers with 18 points off the bench, hitting 6-of-10 shots from the floor and 4-of-8 three pointers. I’ve been adamant that Carringotn belongs in the Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year race, but now I think we need to put his name among the top transfers of the Greg Gard era.
John Blackwell
After coming off a mere seven-point game out in Seattle against Washington, Blackwell had a much better performance against Maryland. The junior guard scored 14 points on an efficient 6-of-9 shots on Wednesday night. Blackwell admitted after the game that last year’s loss to Penn State at home left a horrible taste in his mouth and was determined to send the Badgers out as winners on Senior Day in 2026.
Isaac Gard
What a phenomenal way to end the home season in Madison. Gard, a seldom-used walk-on from Oregon and son of Greg Gard, hit one of the coldest three-point shots in the history of the Kohl Center right in front of his father.
Isaac Gard, son of coach Greg Gard, made the building ERUPT with this three on senior night 👏🎯 pic.twitter.com/22OEhddhxR
— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) March 5, 2026
Just a truly outstanding moment for Isaac, Greg, and all of Badger Nation.
Dallas Wings star guard Arike Ogunbowale was arrested on Thursday while celebrating her team's recent championship in the Unrivaled league, per Fox Sports' Andy Slater.
Ogunbowale was reportedly arrested in Miami for punching a man in the face.
The four-time WNBA All-Star played for Mist BC in the 2026 Unrivaled season, helping guide the team to a title over Phantom.
Here's what's known about Ogunbowale's arrest.
Arike Ogunbowale arrest details
Andy Slater reported Friday morning that Ogunbowale had been arrested on Thursday, March 6, in an incident that involved her punching a man in the face and "he fell to the ground."
Ogunbowale was reportedly celebrating with her team at Club E11EVEN in Miami at the time of the incident. According to Slater, cameras caught Ogunbowale punching the man, but footage has not yet circulated.
Further details about Ogunbowale's arrest have yet to be reported.
SLATER SCOOP: WNBA All-Star Arike Ogunbowale was arrested on Thursday while celebrating her team’s Unrivaled basketball championship at Club E11EVEN in Miami.
Police sources tell me she punched a man in the face and he fell to the ground.
The WNBA season is set to tip off on April 25. Ogunbowale, the former No. 5 overall pick in the 2019 WNBA Draft out of Notre Dame, is heading into her eighth season with the Wings.
WEST PALM BEACH — Ashlea Klam used to spend her high school lunch periods in Austin, Texas sitting in a classroom, making up hours for missed time while traveling to pursue a dream.
She didn’t participate in signing day. She wasn’t considered an official athlete. The sport she loved wasn’t sanctioned in her state.
At the same time, in 2021, most of the colleges weren’t talking about women’s flag football. That's when Keiser University made the decision that would make a huge impact beyond West Palm Beach. That same year, the NAIA became the first governing body to officially sanction women’s flag football as a varsity sport.
Keiser stepped into that territory, offering scholarships, structure and legitimacy to a generation of athletes who, until then, were building the game without a collegiate home.
Five years later, that early investment has turned into national dominance. Entering the 2026 season ranked No. 2 in the NAIA, the Seahawks hold an all-time record of 77–15 and are coming off a 20-win season that included a second straight Sun Conference Tournament title and an appearance in the NAIA National Championship Game. The Seahawks are currently 4-1.
Now, the sport Keiser invested in is headed to the Olympics stage in 2028 in Los Angeles.
For Klam, now a junior, Keiser wasn’t just an option, it was validation. She remembers watching the Seahawks compete at NAIA Nationals when she was still in high school.
“They lost that tournament,” Klam said. “But in my mind, they were by far the best team. Not just for their athletic ability, but familywise. They were so disciplined.”
That culture, she said, drew her in. “Keiser is my team. My best friends. My sisters. My family”
Ashlea Klam now competing for USA Football
Klam, who plays safety for Keiser, now competes on the international stage with USA Football, winning gold at the 2024 IFAF Flag Football World Championship and silver at the 2025 World Games.
Last month, she found herself in the middle of another milestone moment for the sport- Super Bowl week - where she competed in a coed flag football game on offense and defense.
“Oh my god! The Super Bowl was amazing,” Klam said. “It was such a great experience. It was a true celebration for flag football. You would turn a corner and see a field of flag football or see a brand talking about this amazing sport.”
She paused.
“I definitely think the Seattle Seahawks might have won,” she said with a laugh, “but flag football truly won during Super Bowl. We were showcased everywhere, recognized and respected by the league and all the organizations and brands out there.”
For a player who once struggled to have her sport acknowledged in high school, the moment wasn’t lost on her.
“It was very difficult,” she said referring to high school. “I had some great teachers who supported me, but it wasn’t something that the school offered.”
Keiser offered it - and that difference mattered.
While flag football has exploded at the youth and high school levels, particularly in Florida, one of the earliest states to sanction girls high school flag football, the collegiate opportunities were limited.
That’s where NAIA institutions such as Keiser have filled the gap.
“I think it’s really special that the NAIA is hosting the sport and establishing it as a real sport in universities,” said Sophie Guitron, another Keiser University player as well as a member of the U.S. Girls 17U National Team and a 2024 NFL Latino Youth Honors recipient. “It gives girls in high school an opportunity to move up a level. They have somewhere to go.”
“I felt like Keiser was truly the only option for me”, said Guitron, a true freshman who hails from Redondo Beach, Calif. “I loved the team. The coaches are amazing. They’re always there to support me.”
For athletes like Guitron, Keiser represents more than competition. It represents continuity, a bridge between high school success and national aspirations. Without programs like Keiser’s, that bridge doesn’t exist. Several South Florida high school athletes are on the current roster: Sophia Caprio (Seminole Ridge), Keelin Coleman (Wellington), Dakota Moberg (Martin County), Adrienne Rivera (Fort Pierce Central) and Serenity Simon (Miami Palmetto).
Keiser coach Samantha Harris understands that Keiser's impact goes beyond its roster.
“When NAIA added flag football, it definitely helped grow the sport,” Harris said. “More schools are jumping on it. High Schools are adding it.”
Harris has been involved with the sport for a long time. She began playing in sixth grade, later coached Seminole Ridge High School for a decade, helping guide the team to state championships, and has remained heavily involved in youth development through leagues connected with NFL Flag.
In 2022, she helped launch the Breakthru Athletic League (BA League), located in Loxahatchee. It is a nonprofit 5v5 program that serves as a feeder into travel programs for girls ages 6 to 18 such as Tru Skillz Academy.
Building flag football ladder from youth leagues to Olympics
The idea: build the ladder for the sport.
Youth leagues. High school. Collegiate. National team. Olympics.
“To have Keiser add flag football here on a collegiate level, especially in Florida, where the sport is already strong, it’s a huge success.” Harris said. “You have all these girls who have played four years in high school. Now they have a place to continue.”
Keiser’s program has already experienced competitive success, but Harris insists that pioneering a sport requires more than wins.
“The scoreboard will speak for itself,” she said. “Culture comes first.”
That culture- family oriented, disciplined, player-driven, is what players mention before anything else.
It’s also what makes Keiser’s early investment sustainable. As larger institutions evaluate when and how to adopt flag football, Keiser has already built five years of recruiting top players, coaching systems and athlete development.
It didn’t wait for the Olympics to make it trendy. It moved when the opportunity to grow a sport emerged.
When flag football kicks off at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, it will be a global achievement.
But long before that moment, smaller fields are carrying the sport forward.
In 2021, Keiser became one of the first universities in the country to say yes to flag football as a varsity sport. For athletes such as Klam and Guitron, that decision changed everything.
And for young girls in Palm Beach County and across the United States watching from the stands, it sends a message that once didn’t exist - now they have someone to look up to and a reference.
Megan Olivi is excited to navigate through more new additions to the UFC broadcast after recently signing a new multiyear contract extension with the organization.
With the UFC having just begun a new seven-year rights agreement with Paramount, Olivi's future for the next several years will see her continue her longtime role as roving reporter at events as well as a bevy of other duties.
The position has evolved during Olivi's presence, and in 2026 a fresh spin on broadcasts has been to interview coaches on fight night in the locker room. It's a task that comes with its own challenges, because the competing fighter is often within earshot of the coach speaking about them.
Olivi tries to account for all the factors in that scenario, and admits having a more intimate knowledge of those situations through her marriage to three-time UFC title challenger Joseph Benavidez plays no small role in that awareness.
"I might approach it differently than the other reporters in that role because of my experience with Joseph," Olivi recently told MMA Junkie. "What I like to do is tell the coaches on Friday like, 'Hey, is this OK with you? This is what we're going to be doing. If it's two questions, this is kind of how it's going go.' I like to try to get them out of the way as early as possible. A little bit for us because if there's a technical issue, TV-wise our comms don't work as well in those areas, so there's a lot that can go wrong for the actual broadcast, so it gives us a little bit of leeway in case something does go wrong for me.
"I'm not trying to get in the way. You have a fight to focus on. You have a fighter to coach. Oftentimes they have more than one fighter that they're preparing for the fight. I don't want the athlete to ever feel like we're getting in their way. For me, I check arrival times. … I just approach it a little different because of my personal experience. Not that more fighters would ever be bothered by it, but I never want it to feel like, 'Oh, I'm going out there in 15 minutes and this girl is coming in here and taking my coach away from me.' I don't know. It's just the way my brain is wired for having somebody in that exact position."
Olivi is confident in her approach and ability to get productive answers from the coaches under those conditions, and it's one of the many strengths she tries to the lend to on-air product.
With her new contract in hand, Olivi hopes to find many ways to be an additive in her role and seize a future ripe with opportunity.
"I feel like I can sit in whatever seat and do a great job," Olivi said. "The partnership with CBS might also lend itself to some particular dreams that I've always had like hosting a morning show."
To hear more from Olivi, check out her complete appearance on "The Bohnfire" podcast with MMA Junkie senior reporter Mike Bohn.
Caroline Dubois and Terri Harper face off during a press conference at London Olympia. Picture date: Friday February 6, 2026. (Photo by Yui Mok/PA Images via Getty Images) | PA Images via Getty Images
Most Valuable Promotions has announced a “multiyear deal with ESPN,” which will host its newly created MVPW “global platform for women’s boxing” through 2028.
Things kick off on April 5th with a previously announced lightweight unification between Caroline Dubois (12-0-1, 5 KO) and Terri Harper (16-2-2, 6 KO). Elif Nur Turhan made a strong case for being the division’s top dog last year, but it’ll be hard to argue that whoever wins here isn’t in at least second place. In other title action, Ellie Scotney (11-0, 0 KO) meets Mayelli Flores (13-1-1, 4 KO) for the undisputed super bantamweight title and Chantelle Cameron (21-1, 8 KO) jumpts from 140 to 154 to face Michaela Kotaskova (11-0-4, 2 KO) in a vacant WBO title fight.
Less than two weeks later, Alycia Baumgardner (17-1, 7 KO) defends her super featherweight titles against Bo Mi Re Shin (19-3-3, 10 KO). Per ESPN, the show will also see Shadasia Green (16-1, 11 KO) defend her super middleweight titles against Lani Daniels (11-4-1, 1 KO), who fell to Claressa Shields in a heavyweight title fight last year and subsequently lost her light heavyweight belt to Germany’s Sarah Scheurich.
Additionally, Stephanie Han (12-0, 3 KO) will rematch Holly Holm (34-3-3, 9 KO) on May 30th in El Paso. Han took a wide technical decision when the pair met in January, though how merited the stoppage was remained a point of contention.
African coaches are virtually absent from the dugouts of European club championships. However, there are currently four coaches from two African countries making their mark within European teams.
Today, three Senegalese tacticians are leading or have recently led clubs on the Old Continent—a rare occurrence worth highlighting in an environment still largely dominated by European managers.
Habib Beye, the standard-bearer
The most high-profile among them is without a doubt Habib Beye. The former Senegal international has established himself in recent seasons as one of the most visible African coaches in Europe. After proving his worth on the Red Star bench, guiding them to the National title in 2024, he then joined Stade Rennais FC before being appointed head coach of Olympique de Marseille in 2026.
This is a major promotion for the Senegalese manager, who now finds himself in the spotlight of Ligue 1—one of European football’s elite leagues.
Omar Daf, a solid run in Ligue 2
Another well-known Senegalese coach in France is Omar Daf. A former international defender, he successfully transitioned to the coaching ranks in French football. He notably managed Dijon FCO and then FC Sochaux-Montbéliard before taking charge of Amiens SC in Ligue 2. Although his spell with Amiens recently ended following his dismissal, his career illustrates the ability of Senegalese coaches to establish themselves in French professional football.
Mbaye Leye, making waves in Belgium
The third Senegalese coach active in Europe is Mbaye Leye. A former striker—most notably in Belgium—he quickly turned to coaching. He managed Standard Liège before continuing his coaching career and was recently appointed assistant coach at KAA Gent.
Ahmed Kantari at the beginning of his journey
Outside of these Senegalese coaches, African tacticians remain a rare sight on European benches. One of the few exceptions is Moroccan Ahmed Kantari, currently managing FC Nantes in Ligue 1. Taking over the Canaries last December, he has so far been unable to turn things around, and the club is heading straight for relegation.
PREVIEW: League Leaders Coventry City Travel To Bristol City
Title chasing Coventry City will travel to Ashton Gate tomorrow to face a Bristol City side who have found themselves in poor form as of late.
The Sky Blues currently sit five points clear at the top of the Championship table, having picked up 71 points from 35 games so far this term. Frank Lampard’s side suffered a slight blip at the start of 2026 that saw them win just two of their first seven league games of the year, however a 3-1 win over second place Middlesbrough got them back on track for the league title, and they’ve followed it up with three more wins against West Brom, Sheffield United and Stoke City.
Meanwhile, Bristol City find themselves 10th in the table, seven points outside of a play-off spot following a poor run of recent results. The Robins come into this one off the back of a 1-0 loss to Port Vale on Tuesday night that saw City exit the Emirates FA Cup.
Coventry will be backed by a sold-out away end tomorrow afternoon with over 3,000 fans making the trip to Bristol, hoping they can cheer their side to a 22nd league victory of the season and see them extend their lead at the top of the tree. By contrast, the mood amongst Bristol City fans in recent weeks has been one of frustration due to poor results and what was deemed an unambitious January transfer window that saw star players Zak Vyner and Anis Mehmeti leave the club for play-off rivals Wrexham and Ipswich Town respectively.
Both managers have met the media ahead of this one, with Gerhard Struber confirming that West Ham United loanee George Earthy will be ready and available for this weekend’s clash, whilst Scottish defender Ross McCrorie remains a doubt.
Meanwhile Frank Lampard insisted that there are lots of aspects about Coventry City’s trip to Ashton Gate that’ll ensure his side’s clash with Bristol City will be a “difficult challenge,” with the Sky Blues boss labelling the Reds a “good team.”
Coventry won the reverse fixture 1-0 back in December thanks to a second-half goal from Ephron Mason-Clark. The Robins haven’t beaten the West-Midlands based side since 2023, when they themselves picked up a 1-0 home win. Historically, the spoils are fairly evenly shared with Bristol City winning 25 of the 79 meetings so far, Coventry winning 28 and 26 ending in a draw.
The match will take place at Ashton Gate Stadium on Saturday March 7th, kick-off is scheduled for 3pm (UK time.)
The Senegalese international (38 caps, 4 goals) has racked up 53 successful dribbles this season, just one ahead of Ghanaian Mohammed Kudus, who has 52 dribbles to his name.
Gambian winger Yankuba Minteh, who plays for Brighton & Hove Albion, also has 52 successful dribbles this season, while Antoine Semenyo rounds out the top ten with 37 dribbles.
The ranking is led by Manchester City's Belgian winger, Jérémy Doku, who has completed 62 dribbles since the start of the campaign.
Here is the Top 10 best dribblers in the Premier League:
His first goal in February was the second in the 3-0 home win over Fulham, ending a lung-busting run with a delicate chip over goalkeeper Bernd Leno.
That breakaway goal has also been nominated for our Goal of the Month award for February.
He then bagged a decisive brace in the 2-1 home win over Newcastle United, firing his first from the edge of the box before powering a header in for the winner.
His form across the month has even seen him shortlisted for the Premier League’s Player of the Month award.
O’Reilly also featured in the Carabao Cup semi-final defeat of the Magpies and the FA Cup success over Salford City.
Congratulations to Nico on this award and his excellent form throughout February!
De Rossi previews Roma rematch: “This is not just any other game.”
Two days before the Genoa-Roma match, Daniele De Rossi held a press conference to assess the players’ condition and analyze the return match against the team he led until last September.
The Rossoblu coach provided an update on the injury situation: “Norton-Cuffy and Otoa are currently training. I don’t know if they’ll be called up, but the positive news is that they’re feeling better. Baldanzi will definitely not be available, but he also gives us hope.”
“We need to understand if, and how many, risks we need to take for Brooke. We can also be cautious, even though she’s feeling pretty good.”
Attention then shifted to the significance of the match, recalling the first-leg defeat: “It was our worst game since I’ve been here, despite the mistakes we’ve made in other matches and the strength of our opponent. Roma’s quality is unmatched, but we lacked a reaction. We’ve played against teams that have put us under pressure, like Napoli or Atalanta, but we’ve always reacted.”
“We gave up a little there. It won’t be a game like the others, but I’m getting used to this situation and am focused on bringing home the points. It’s a pleasure to play this game at home because the last memory I have of the ‘Ferraris’ is of a stadium full of celebration and warmth, supporting the team.”
On Paulo Dybala’s absence: “Before matches, we make hypothetical lineups like you journalists do, and no matter how you line them up, they’re always fabulous. I’m sending a hug to Dybala, just like I did when I gave him a paternity award. I don’t know who’ll be missing, but this is a team that has proven they can beat anyone; they came within an inch of beating Juve.”
“They’re a strong team that picked up a lot of points early on, perhaps without playing too well, but now they’re resembling what Atalanta used to be. They’re a team with quality ball possession and players who can decide matches.”
On the opponent’s tactical qualities and Donyell Malen’s impact: “Gasperini did incredible things here, and then he did incredible things at Atalanta too. I think he created this Atalanta. I think he’s the great architect of that miracle, making everything even better in terms of results. Roma is a strong team and difficult to beat, also for that reason.”
“I think Malen has brought something to Roma; he embodies the type of technical player who ties the game together and is skilled in the penalty area. I didn’t remember him much; we need to be very good at marking him.”
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - DECEMBER 07: Eric Stokes #22 of the Las Vegas Raiders looks on before a game against the Denver Broncos at Allegiant Stadium on December 07, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images) | Getty Images
It’s all about free agency as the craziness starts on Monday.
So, naturally, for our Tuesday Community Question topic this week, we asked our community members what Las Vegas Raiders in-house free agent do they most want to see the team keep? Here is a list of their 2026 free agents.
Cornerback Eric Stokes got a lot of love, which is not a surprise.
Here are some of your responses:
Desair.711
Stokes played well and all, but he also looked good because our CB2 was heavily targeted. Not sure I would offer him a top deal.
jclax37
Eric Stokes he played well at CB. He stayed relatively healthy!
Limey Raider Exhumed
Malcom Koonce, because it is almost inevitable that he will regain his 2023 form if he leaves. They always do.
Another prove-it year in terms of salary, though.
krkster
Stokes he was the only decent corner last season.
Head to the comments section to share your thoughts and join the conversation. You can sign up for a commenting account below and we have full-time moderators to enforce the Community Guidelines.
The Sacramento Kings have played some of the worst defense in the NBA this season. But guard Russell Westbrook offered up some confrontational cover for his younger teammates by blasting reporters following the Kings' latest setback.
The organization is enduring another brutal NBA campaign, with their one-year revival as a playoff team in 2023 disintegrating into yet another rebuild and the worst record in the league less than three years later. But Westbrook insisted during a tense exchange at a March 5 news conference that local media members are contributing to the problems with "false comments" regarding him and other Kings' players.
"You guys have a lot of opinions about how we do what we're doing. What you got," Westbrook asked in the aftermath of Sacramento's 133-123 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans. "You make a lot of statements and broad statements that you have no context, so where do you get your context from? Are you in practice? Are you at our film session? Are you anywhere around the building?"
Westbrook declined to elaborate when asked for specifics about what sparked his comments, but continued to answer questions with criticism of the team's media coverage.
When one reporter noted criticism of the team was fair considering its record and status in the bottom-three of the NBA in offensive and defensive rating this season, the 37-year-old guard said backlash against the Kings (14-50) has too often not been about basketball.
"You guys' job is to talk about the game, what's happening in the game, not stir up a bunch of – I don't want to cuss here because I don't want to get fined – but stir up a bunch of stuff that, it's not accurate and that's my problem," Westbrook said. "Being in the league awhile, I've been able to experience a lot of these times where people outside of our building, outside of the film session, outside of what we do daily, how much work we put in, that is not an easy job to do.
"Y'all come in, y'all make your comments, and nobody say nothing. But I don't have to sit back and say nothing," Westbrook continued. "... As a leader of this team, it's my job to speak up for the guys in the locker room. We talk about it. They see it. I hear it. Because of the comments you guys make, you got guys thinking about a bunch of random things that has nothing to do with the game. You guys are making false comments about our team and what we're doing here, and I don't appreciate that. So my ask is that you respect what we do and we'll respect what you do."
Westbrook, now finishing up his 18th NBA season, signed a one-year deal with the Kings in October. They are his seventh team in eight seasons after starting his career with the Oklahoma City Thunder. The 2017 NBA MVP winner is averaging 15.3 points, 6.4 assists and 5.3 rebounds in nearly 29 minutes per game in Sacramento this season.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Cincinnati Bengals have a lot of work to do. The Bengals need to address their cornerback, safety, linebacker, pass rusher, and defensive line rooms.
Overall, they have needs at essentially every position. But that doesn't mean there won't be a few players leaving in free agency from those positions. Trey Hendrickson and Geno Stone are both set to leave, but they might not be alone.
ESPN's Ben Baby is expecting the Bengals to let a former star cornerback, Cam Taylor-Britt, walk in free agency as well. After a "rocky" career in Cincinnati, Taylor-Britt is slated to hit free agency and depart for a change of scenery.
Bengals expected to let Cam Taylor-Britt walk in FA
"FA most likely on the move: CB Cam Taylor-Britt," Baby writes. "The former second-round pick had a rough ending to a rocky career.
This past season, Taylor-Britt played in just eight games before suffering a Lisfranc injury that ended his season.
As baby notes, a "change of scenery could do wonders to restart his career." Taylor-Britt was once the Bengals top cornerback, but now, he's slated to hit free agency with some questions around his game.
This past season, he allowed a brutal 134.1 passer rating in coverage on 28 targets, as he allowed 19 receptions for 241 yards and four touchdowns in just eight games.
Compared to his 98.0 and 78.0 passer ratings allowed in 2024 and 2023, respectively, this past season was a rough one for Taylor-Britt.
Not only did Taylor-Britt have a rough on-field performance in 2025, but his Lisfranc injury will make his free agent market a very iffy one.
While he's likely to sign a contract with some team in free agency, it might not be the big deal that he could've landed had he had another year like his 2023 season in 2025.
Taylor-Britt has seven career interceptions, with two pick-sixes, in 47 games. He also has 38 passes defended, 203 total tackles, and four total tackles for loss.
The 26-year-old cornerback is going to hit free agency and is not expected to return to the Bengals this offseason. Hopefully for Taylor-Britt, a change of scenery could lead to a rebound season and a big contract next offseason after a rocky Bengals career.
Sep 23, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Minnesota Wild defenseman David Jiricek (55) chases the puck during the second period against the Dallas Stars at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Back on draft day in 2022, the Philadelphia Flyers were staring at both Cutter Gauthier and David Jiricek on the board at pick No. 5. Then-general manager Chuck Fletcher decided to select Gauthier, while the righthanded shooting defenseman Jiricek went sixth overall to the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Now, Gauthier is long gone, and David Jiricek is a Philadelphia Flyer.
On Friday morning, just hours before the trade deadline, the Flyers acquired Jiricek in a one-for-one trade for winger Bobby Brink. Brink was rumored to be on the trade block in the lead-up to the deadline, despite establishing himself as a quality NHL middle-six winger. He hit his career-high in points last season with 41 in 79 games, and reached a new high in goals already this season with 13.
But given Brink’s age — 24 going on 25 — he was close to a finished product, with the most likely scenario being that Brink was going to top out as a middle-sixer and nothing more. And the Flyers are poised to have a surplus of NHL wingers, especially with the emergence of Denver Barkey, the looming arrival of 2025 fifth overall pick Porter Martone, the coming promotion of Alex Bump, and Tyson Foerster’s return from injury in 2026-27. There just weren’t enough spots for all of the team’s wingers — especially wingers who favor playing on the right side (Foerster, Travis Konecny, Matvei Michkov, Owen Tippett, Martone).
Jan 19, 2026; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Philadelphia Flyers right wing Bobby Brink (10) shoots beside Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Jeremy Lauzon (5) during the second period at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
Jiricek, on the other hand, plays a premium position and comes with plenty of plausible upside. Given his draft pedigree, expectations were high for the defenseman in Columbus, and he appeared to be meeting them in his Draft+1 season, scoring 38 points in 55 AHL games as a 19-year old. But then, his progress stalled, as he bounced between the AHL and NHL for the next one-and-a-half seasons before getting shipped to Minnesota for a haul of draft picks (first, second, third and fourth round picks, and defenseman Daemon Hunt).
But it didn’t work out in Minnesota for Jiricek, either. Jiricek comes with plenty of strengths — a powerful slapshot, strong puck skills, a physical edge, and great size — but his weaknesses held him back. Skating has always been an issue for the 6’4 blueliner, and while it is NHL-caliber, his stride remains on the awkward side. But it was inconsistency and decision-making that ultimately soured the Wild on the defenseman — who just last season they paid a massive price to pry out of Columbus. Jiricek is prone to the “big mistake,” and given Minnesota’s designs on Stanley Cup contention this year, that was enough to get him sent back down to the AHL.
The Flyers clearly see a potential reclamation project, a formerly highly-touted prospect at a position of scarcity (RHD) that they can develop into an impact player. There’s lots of risk involved — Jiricek’s NHL results thus far in 84 games aren’t pretty — and it’s possible Jiricek’s flaws prevent him from being more than a depth defenseman at the highest level. But his natural skill and physical advantages give him the opportunity to be far more than that.
Oct 20, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Minnesota Wild defenseman David Jiricek (55) during the second period against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Right now, Jiricek doesn’t have a clear cut path to NHL playing time, given the Flyers’ logjam on the back end. But that’s a logjam that could be resolved as soon as today, if Rasmus Ristolainen is shipped out before the 3 PM deadline. Long-term, however, the Flyers now have three under-25 righthanded shooting defensemen that were selected in Round 1 in their organization — Jiricek, Jamie Drysdale and Oliver Bonk. It’s not hard to guess that they now see that as the foundation of their future defense corps.
As for Brink, he joins a Minnesota club that expects to make a title push, especially after trading for Quinn Hughes back in December. Brink is a Minnesota native, so he’ll be returning home to play for a true contender. His exit opens the door for a number of potential lineup and roster moves for the Flyers — Matvei Michkov could be returned to RW, Alex Bump could be called up, Nikita Grebenkin could get another extended look in the top-nine, and eventually, Porter Martone could slide into the newly opened spot.
There remains time for Daniel Briere to make further moves before the 3 PM deadline. But he’s already put his stamp on the team’s future with this morning’s Brink/Jiricek trade.
Tom Hamer joined Lincoln City from Burton Albion in July 2024 [Rex Features]
Lincoln City have signed defender Tom Hamer to a new deal that will keep him at the League One club until the summer of 2029.
The 26-year-old was previously under contract until the end of next season but he has now committed to another three campaigns at Sincil Bank.
He joined the Imps on a free transfer from Burton in 2024 and has since made 66 appearances, scoring four goals.
"The staff, players and supporters make this a great club to be at and I'm really pleased to have committed my future here long-term," Hamer told the club website.
Sporting director Jez George said: "Tom has performed at a consistently high level all season and his long throw also provides us with an important attacking threat within our game model."
Lincoln look on course for promotion to the Championship, sitting second in League One and just a point behind Cardiff City, who they meet in a top-of-the-table clash on Saturday lunchtime (12:30 GMT).
West Bromwich Albion's current struggles are a warning of just how dangerous the Championship can be, according to Sheffield United head coach Chris Wilder.
The Baggies visit Bramall Lane on Saturday [15:00 GMT] just one point clear of the relegation zone and without a win in their past 11 league games.
"In terms of the players they've got and the quality in the group, everybody will be asking how come they're in that position? - but that's what can happen in the Championship," Wilder told BBC Radio Sheffield.
"It happened to us with everyone asking at the start of the season how that group of players haven't won a point in the first five games? - it's a dangerous division when you don't get it right."
West Brom have sacked two head coaches this term - Ryan Mason and Eric Ramsay - and have put former midfielder James Morrison in charge until the end of the season and Wilder says no-one should be surprised when a big club struggles in the Championship.
"These things can happen if you don't get it right off the pitch as well as on the pitch," he said.
"It happened to Stoke last season, it's happened to Derby and even to teams who fall through the division.
"We've got an opportunity to get to 50 points - from our point of view getting to 50 points is normally a guarantee of another season in the Championship which was my thought when I first came back through the door and West Brom would love to be in that position."
Wilder has also revealed former England international Kalvin Phillips injured his knee in the Steel City derby win over Sheffield Wednesday last month and the midfielder, who is suspended after being sent-off in the same game, is back at his parent club Manchester City receiving treatment.
Sheffield United are currently 13th in the table, nine points short of the play-offs and 14 clear of the relegation zone.
Brooks, 30, is in his first season with the Suns after being involved in the seven-team trade that resulted in Kevin Durant also being dealt to Phoenix. In 50 games this season, Brooks is averaging 20.9 points.
VENICE, ITALY - MARCH 02: Para Snow athlete Brenna Huckaby reacts as she is fitted in the Ralph Lauren studio during the Team United States Welcome Experience At Milan-Cortina 2026 Paralympics on March 02, 2026 in Venice, Italy. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The 2026 Winter Olympics may be in the rear-view mirror, but fans of the Games are in luck.
Because the 2026 Winter Paralympics are just getting started.
Over the next two weeks more of the world’s best athletes will tackle the ice, snow, and slopes in Italy during the 2026 Winter Paralympics, and ahead of the games SB Nation caught up with one of Team USA’s stars, snowboarder Brenna Huckaby. Huckaby has four Paralympic medals already on her resume, having won gold in both the snowboard cross and the banked slalom at the 2018 Winter Paralympics, and then gold in the banked slalom and bronze in the snowboard cross at the 2022 Beijing Games.
Over the course of a fascinating conversation we talked about her journey to the Games, what it takes to be at your best, the importance of finding yourself and yes, cats.
Huckaby’s path to the Paralympics
Huckaby’s path to the Paralympics has taken a long and winding road.
Including some time in the courtroom.
Growing up, Huckaby was a nationally-ranked gymnast, and was on track for a potential college scholarship. But in her early teens she developed some pain in her right knee, which she initially believed was a training injury.
But after multiple rounds of tests, it was uncovered to be osteosarcoma, a bone cancer.
Doctors tried treating the tumor woth chemotherapy, but the tumor continue to grow, and amputation of her right leg was raised as an option. Given the fact that the cancer was not responding to chemotherapy, and radiation was not effective against this particular condition, Huckaby proceeded with the amputation.
That is when she discovered snowboarding, during her recovery.
Her athleticism on the mat translated to the snow, and Huckaby began racking up wins in snowboarding, securing her first world championship in snowboard cross in 2015. She represented Team USA at the 2018 Winter Paralympics, taking gold in both snowboard cross and the banked slalom as noted above.
Then came the next twist to her tale.
“There’s two categories for women’s leg-impairment snowboarding,“ described Huckaby. ”I am in LL1, which means I have a level of impairment that, to put it visually, is an above-the-knee amputee or something similar. So, if you have both your legs, you’re affected to a similar degree as an above-the-knee amputee. The other category is LL2, which, to put it visually, is the equivalent for a below-the-knee amputee, or something similar. In my category, LL1, we also have double below-the-knee amputees.“
Following the 2018 Paralympics, the landscape shifted in the sport.
“So, my category, LL1 had many women retire in 2018 after the games, which left us with less number of women than we ideally would like to have. So, we began competing combined with the LL2 women, who also did not have very many numbers at this time, so that we could have levels of competition and enough people to compete,” said Huckaby. “We competed combined in this way at World Cups for a couple of years, after 2018, and we were told then that we would be able to compete combined at the Paralympic Games, so that we could have representation and show that we, you know, exist. And in LL1 women, we’re not putting the LL2 women at a disadvantage in any way.
“However, when the qualification guide came out in 2021, the LL1 women were excluded from being able to compete. We were not in the language that we were able to compete.”
But knowing the importance of the Paralympics, Huckaby pressed the matter.
“So, I knew that the importance of representation and having LL1 women, seen, knowing that, hey, that’s how you get more women, not only in our sport, but to know that you know, they’re worthy of being seen, and they are capable of doing incredible things. The way to do that is to be seen at the Paralympics, since that’s really our only time to have visibility at this scale. So I wanted to fight for my right to compete. I ended up hiring a lawyer, filing an injunction to allow me to compete on the basis of disability discrimination, and we won.
“So myself and my fellow LL1 competitor, Cecile Hernandez, was able to compete in the 2022 games in the LL2 classification. So, we were competing at a disadvantage, but to us, it was more important to be at a disadvantage so that we could showcase that we exist and we are worthy of showing up for other people. Now, moving into 2026.”
While the numbers are growing, Huckaby will still be competing in the LL2 classification during these Games. While that might mean a disadvantage, it is worth it to show the world what she and her fellow athletes can do.
“That is still the case, though worldwide we have more LL1 women than we have in a very long time. We have almost equal numbers to the LL2 women, so … Not sure why we’re still combined, but we are.
“So, at this Games, I will also be competing at a disadvantage, which is a massive challenge, but I know that it has grown me as a person, and it is worth it. Again, I would rather compete at a disadvantage than not compete at all, so that I can show, women with more severe disabilities that they deserve to compete.”
The chaos of snowboard cross
One of Huckaby’s events, snowboard cross, has been described as “NASCAR on snow.”
So I asked the athlete how to describe the event from her perspective, which looks like loosely controlled chaos to this observer.
“We always say there’s a line of control. So if you’re riding in control, you’re here, okay,” says Huckaby, gesturing.
“But to be the fastest, you kind of have to push that line a little bit, and sometimes that means you may not ride everything perfectly, and you may explode, and sometimes that means you take out other competitors, which is…a bummer, but it happens, and we call it getting border crossed,” described the Team USA athlete.
“So, in an ideal, perfect world, our level of control is so fast that nobody can touch you, but unfortunately, that’s not the case. So we’re all trying to kind of push our levels of speed in the courses, which can sometimes end in chaos. But I would say 90% of the time, though, everyone’s on their feet, doing some clean, really impressive racing, but sometimes those explosions do happen.
The Paralympic experience
I then wanted to discuss what the experience is like at the Games for an athlete, from what it is like to prepare for your event, to life in the Athlete’s Village. Thankfully, Huckaby was willing to each aspect, starting with getting ready for her events.
“So, it’s the same as any other event. So for us, [with snowboard cross] we get a practice day, so we’ll be on the course for one day, maybe two at the games,” began Huckaby. “But for sure, one day on course for training, and then, the next day you do qualifiers, which kind of feels like another day of training, because it’s all about your time, so you’re not racing with other people. And then the next day, it’s full-on heat after heat, racing first one to the bottom.
“We will be going to Italy a little bit early, so that we can acclimate to the time zone, and I believe we will be on snow during that time, just not on course. And then, very similar style for bank slalom, except it’s a training day, and then because we don’t race head-to-head with multiple people, it’s timed, the second day will just jump straight into finals of the timed runs.”
And for preparation, Huckaby outlined for me how much of that process comes down to the mental side of the sport.
“So when you get to a course, you do something called inspection, and you have about 30 minutes to basically memorize the course before you can start training on it. And, I think because of the experience I have, I’m able to memorize a course fairly quickly,” outlined Huckaby.
“For that 30 minutes, you’re going through every turn, every feature, you’re looking at, like, what’s the snow consistency? What is the fastest line for time trials? What is the fastest line when I actually start riding with other people? And you’re trying to get all of that data in 30 minutes.
“Then from there, I typically will visualize that course multiple times on the lift, until I get to ride it, and then, that visualization process is never-ending,” added Huckaby. “I continue to do it throughout the whole day, as I gain more feedback and understanding of the course as I ride it. So, it’s a lot of mental, visualization and knowing what you’re doing, to memorize it, because if you don’t, it can get really scary really fast.”
We moved to what the experience is like away from the snow. As someone who grew up watching the Games as a kid, I’ve often wondered about what life is like at the Games as an athlete.
According to Huckaby, pin trading remains a common pursuit in the Village.
“So, for this event, we start competing very early on. So, I will have a few days break in between both events. Haven’t decided yet how I will spend it. I think I’ll likely stay in the Village, but we do have the option to go travel around. For me, that makes me really tired, so I might just stay in the Village,” started Huckaby. “And then in the Village, there’s a lot of pin trading,” said Huckaby.
“I’m in competition with another teammate who’s probably gonna destroy me, because he’s so good at pin trading. But I want to give him a run for his money this year, so I will be spending time doing that.
“And then there’s also hair salons, nail salons, the gym, really beautiful gym facility the last couple of Games, and then, the food court.
“I love eating, so I’ll also be there.
“But yeah, there’s everything you need in just such a small little place. And I’ll hopefully be hanging out with athletes from other nations and other sports. I think we’re gonna be with the alpine athletes, so getting to know them will be really cool.”
On Hershey’s, and “real gold”
Fans who watched the 2026 Winter Olympics are already familiar with Huckaby’s work.
She was part of a campaign with Hershey’s along with fellow Team USA athletes Hilary Knight, Erin Jackson, Jason Brown, and Jordan Stolz, discussing their hopes for the Games. But as part of the campaign, the athletes were surprised by family members, who reminded them that happiness is the “real gold:”
That message is one that resonates with Huckaby.
“For me, that message is kind of everything,” began Huckaby.
“Over the last eight years, I’ve really been trying to focus on the journey and to let go of the outcome. And, what I’ve learned the most is pausing and slowing down and seeing what’s right in front of you is how you find happiness, and is where you see that, like, ‘oh, things are okay, and I have way more things than I thought to be grateful for.’
“And it doesn’t have to be this elaborate, like, spa retreat to feel good about yourself and feel happy. It can really be in these tiny moments of everyday life. But it is a practice. It is reminding yourself to pause, and knowing that you are worth pausing for, and so being able to spread that message with Hershey’s that happiness is found in these tiny, everyday moments, and is achievable, and it’s about, you know, the journey, and that’s where the real gold comes from, and I think that’s really important, and I’m excited to be a part of that message.”
As for what candy in particular Huckaby will be celebrating with in Italy, Almond Joy fans can relate to her answer.
“I am a Almond Joy fiend, so I will be eating an Almond Joy, for sure. I actually have some in my freezer that I am going to take with me.”
That winning moment
Having won a gold medal before, I did want to ask Huckaby what it is like being on the podium, and hearing “The Star-Spangled Banner” played as the American flag is raised.
It is a moment that almost cannot be put into words.
“No, I cannot put it into words,” replied Huckaby.
“It is such an overwhelming feeling, to the point, even when I hear our national anthem not at the games, it brings me back to that moment, and I can feel it in my body. And sometimes it makes me teary-eyed, because it… it really was such an overwhelming experience.”
Talking about Mouse
Before our conversation came to an end, I had to ask Huckaby at least one question … about Mouse.
Her cat.
As someone who became a cat person later in life, and currently chases Sunny and Rosie around the house when I have a spare moment, I wanted to get Huckaby’s thoughts on her cat Mouse, and how Mouse has helped prepare her for the Games.
“Oh my gosh, I love Mouse so much,” began Huckaby.
“I think one of the biggest things about having a cat is, she forces me to slow down when I am very energetic. I can get the human zoomies, and I can be loud, and she kind of reminds me … she wants nothing to do with me when I’m like that. So, I know if I can be calm and quiet, and I go sit with a heated blanket, she will come and snuggle me. So, she is a physical reminder to pause, to be in the moment, and to be present,” continued Huckaby.
“Oh, I love her so much, I wish I could take her to the Games with me. Oh, I’d love that. My parents have a cat, and I just love them so much. I was never a cat person, but now I am.”
Expectations for the 2026 Games
We closed with a discussion about her training for the 2026 Games, and her expectations for Italy. Huckaby outlined for me how her preparation has been “consistent,” and she is seeing a lot of progress in her performance.
“I would say it’s as good as it can be,” said Huckaby about her training for the Games.
“You can only control what you can control, and I’ve been really focused on my nutrition this year, really dialing that in so that my body is fueled for sport, and also just been very consistent with my gym training. And it’s paid off, because now that I’m back on snow, I have seen a lot of progress in things that I wasn’t able to do. I’m able to do them a lot faster and quicker and with more power because of my training this summer. So yeah, I’m feeling really good and really strong.”
As for her expectations for the Paralympics, as a “competitor” she is aiming for gold.
“I mean, of course, I’m hoping for a gold medal. I think that in an ideal world, that’s what I would like to walk away with. I wouldn’t be a competitor if that wasn’t going for gold,” began Huckaby.
”But you know, you can’t focus on an outcome because it’s not guaranteed. So, for me, I want to be able to be at the Games, be clear-headed, to feel strong, and to do what I know I can do on a snowboard. And so, releasing any pressure and expectation, and just be in the moment and perform the way that I know that I can.“
Whether she wins gold again or not, three things wait for her after the Games: An Almond Joy or two, “real gold,” and Mouse.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 11: Nakisa Bidarian and Jake Paul speak at a press conference after Netflix's Katie Taylor vs Amanda Serrano 3 at Madison Square Garden on July 11, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images for Netflix) | Getty Images for Netflix
Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) is holding a special press conference today (March 6) at 11 a.m. ET, streaming LIVE in the embedded video above from inside Madison Square Garden in New York City.
MVP is promising a “major announcement” as part of today’s media festivities.
Here’s the confirmed lineup for today’s presser:
Nakisa Bidarian — CEO of Most Valuable Promotions Amanda Serrano — Boxing trailblazer, seven-division champion, unified 126 lbs. world champion Alycia Baumgardner — Unified world champion at 130 lbs. Shadasia Green — Unified world champion at 168 lbs. Stephanie Han — WBA champion at 135 lbs. Holly Hom — Most decorated two-sport athlete in combat sports history Tamm Thibeault — Two-time Canadian Olympian, amateur world champ, No. 1 contender at 160 lbs. Oshae Jones — U.S. Olympic bronze medalist, IBF world champion at 154 lbs. Tiara Brown — WBC world champion at 126 lbs. LeAnna Cruz — No. 1 contender at 115 lbs.
Iran will not compete in the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games after its only athlete could not travel to Italy safely amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East, the International Paralympic Committee said Friday.
Two-time Paralympian Aboulfazl Khatibi Mianaei had been set to represent Iran at two Para cross-country skiing events beginning next week. The announcement came hours ahead of the opening ceremony in Verona.
“Since the conflict began on Saturday, the IPC and Milano Cortina 2026 Organising Committee have been working tirelessly behind-the-scenes with the NPC and national ski federation to find alternative routes for the safe passage of the Iran delegation to the Games,” IPC President Andrew Parsons said in a statement. “However, with the conflict ongoing across the Middle East, the risk to human life is too high.”
Communication disruptions in Iran following U.S.-Israeli missile strikes last weekend also complicated efforts to coordinate travel, the IPC said in its statement.
“To not compete at a Paralympic Winter Games because of factors outside of his control after years of training and dedication is heartbreaking for the athlete and our sympathies are with Aboulfazl at this difficult time,” Parsons said.
As a result of Iran’s withdrawal, the country’s flag was also removed from the athlete parade during Friday’s opening ceremony.
A total of 611 Para athletes will now compete at the Games.
Jacob Bethell played a fearless knock for England cricket team while chasing a huge 254-run target set by India at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Bethell smashed seven sixes and eight fours as England went hard in the chase after India posted 253/7.
He scored a century in just 45 balls (105 in 48 balls, with eight fours and seven sixes), which is the second-fastest hundred in T20 World Cup history.
Bethell has now joined Jos Buttler, Dawid Malan and Harry Brook as England's fourth all-format centurion in international men's cricket.
He also became the second player to score a century in a T20 World Cup knockout match, and his knock is the highest score in T20 World Cup knockout history.
Bethell was bought by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League 2025 season, for INR 2.60 crore. He was part of the team when RCB won the title. He rejoined RCB for 2026 season.
Bethell made history as the youngest overseas player (21) to debut for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League.
The 21-year-old made his debut against Delhi Capitals and later scored a quick 55 off 33 balls against Chennai Super Kings, showing great promise as a top-order batter.
Bayern Munich - Borussia Mönchengladbach: which channels and what time to watch the match live?
Bayern Munich - Borussia Mönchengladbach: time, channels, and live broadcast details
Bayern Munich - Borussia Mönchengladbach: which channels and what time to watch the match live?
The Bundesliga kicks off its 25th matchday this Friday night with a highly anticipated clash at the Allianz Arena, as Bayern Munich hosts Borussia Mönchengladbach. Sitting firmly atop the league table, the Bavarian giants are eager to extend their winning run in front of their home crowd. However, Vincent Kompany will have to do without his star striker: Harry Kane is sidelined with a calf injury and will be rested by the medical staff.
"He took a knock to his calf and hasn’t fully recovered yet. It’s nothing serious, but he might miss another game," explained the Belgian coach.
Despite this setback, Bayern can count on the return of their captain Manuel Neuer between the posts.
Bayern Munich - Borussia Mönchengladbach: which channels and what time to watch the match live?
The Bundesliga match between Bayern Munich and Borussia Mönchengladbach will take place this Friday from 8:30 p.m. at the Allianz Arena in Munich. The game will be broadcast live on the following channels:
Arena Premium 5 Srbija HDBBC iPlayerBBC iPlayer 4KBBC Sport WebsitebeIN Connect FRANCEbeIN Sports 3 HD (Astro)beIN Sports France 9 HD maxDAZN 2 Portugal HDDiema Sport 3 HDDigi Sport 2 Romania HDEleven Sports 1 Polska HDNova Sport 3 Czech HDNova Sports 3 Cyprus HDNova Sports 3 Hellas HDOneFootball [app]Play Diema XTRAPrima Sport RO 3 HDPrimaPlay [app]S Sport+ StreamingSetanta Sports Qazaqstan HDSetanta Sports+ Ukraine HDSky Sport Top Event HDSport TV1 SlovenijaTivibu Spor 1 HDTring Sport 2 HDTV2 Play NorgeV Sport Football HDViaPlay 3 Urheilu HDViaPlay Danmark HDViaPlay Nederland HDViaPlay Norge HDViaPlay Suomi HDViaPlay Sverige HDViaPlay Ísland HDVoyo Player SlovakiaYouTube : Bundesliga
On paper, Bayern are clear favorites against a Borussia Mönchengladbach side battling to steer clear of the relegation zone this season. Eugen Polanski’s men will nevertheless try to capitalize on Kane’s absence and pull off an upset in Bavaria, even though Bayern’s attacking firepower remains formidable.
The first signs of an upcoming tragedy. | Kristian Skeie/UEFA via Getty Images
In a tradition nearly as storied as the Festival di Sanremo, the calcio press is picking through the rubble of how Serie A sides did in European competitions this year. The Champions, Europa, and Conference Leagues have all set their matchups for the round of 16. As usual, everyone’s trying to figure out what it means for the game in Italy as compared to the rest of the continent. And, as so often happens, the conclusions are universally grim.
Atalanta is the only Italian side to advance in the Champions League and gets Bayern Munich, so la Dea’s race is probably run. Inter Milan and Juventus crashed out to Bodø/Glimt and Galatasaray. Napoli didn’t even make it out of the league stage. In the Europa League, Bologna eased past Brann to join Roma in the next round. Fiorentina, of course, did everything in its power to drop the ball against Jagiellonia but couldn’t round off its own idiocy with a defeat.
I don’t subscribe to the knee-jerk reaction that Serie A is in a state of decline. Italian teams have reached 7 of the past 12 tournament finals. Sure, this is a down year in the Champions League, but single season variance is a real thing. If anything, Serie A’s been better relative to other leagues of late per the results, although there’s certainly a discussion to be had about the overall quality of the division compared to the other mega-elite teams. Anyways, it all got me thinking about the UEFA club coefficient. Italy’s remains second in Europe, behind England. But who’s ensuring that it stays high?
To find out, I looked at the past 15 years of UEFA rankings to see which Serie A teams have represented the league best, starting in the 2010-2011 season. As you may recall, Fiorentina’s last Champions League season was 2009-2010 and I wanted to avoid inflating the coefficient based on that result (which should’ve been the quarterfinal but for Bayern cheating like the cheatingest cheaters who’ve ever cheated). These numbers are incomplete because the current European campaigns are ongoing, of course, but I figured adding this season was still useful. You can sort the table by clicking on the columns.
By the numbers, it doesn’t look like Fiorentina’s lifting particularly heavily. Of the 8 continental regulars (i.e. 8 or more seasons in Europe), the Viola’s 15.47 points per European campaign is 5th, which indicates that the club’s pulling its weight but no more. This chart shows that actually it’s the Champions League teams doing the yeoman’s work, although AC Milan and Napoli have shirked. So no, Fiorentina hasn’t been helping the rest of Serie A with deep European runs to boost the league’s coefficient. I’m clearly suffering from delusions of grandeur by proxy. Case closed.
And immediately reopened because UEFA weights all these competitions differently. In the 2022-2023 season, Inter got 29 points for reaching the Champions League final. Napoli got 25 for reaching the quarterfinal and Milan, who eliminated the Partenopei, got 24 for reaching the semis. Meanwhile, Fiorentina got 20 for reaching the Conference League final; 11 other teams got more.
That’s fine and correct, of course. The Champions League is more difficult than the Conference League and the coefficient points ought to reflect that. In terms of judging a nation’s teams on progress through their respective continental competitions, though, it skews the numbers towards the Champions League; Napoli earned 12 points for crashing out in the league stage of the Champions League this year while Fiorentina’s into the Conference League round of 16 and has received just 7.75 point for its endeavors.
This is small-team bias at its most glaring, of course, but that’s what I’m all about and it drove me to create my own system of points from scratch. What I wanted was less about UEFA’s coefficient and more about which Italian teams take Europe seriously; I’m still scarred by the Udineses and Palermos of the world getting grouped in the early aughts, eventually resulting in Serie A losing its 4th Champions League spot just in time for the Viola to finish 4th for 3 straight seasons.
I was therefore more interested in how deep clubs go into whichever competition they’re in because that seems like a decent proxy for seriousness, especially since the Champions, Europa, and Conference Leagues roughly sort clubs by financial power. Since I’m starting from scratch and it’s my own idiotic system, I get to make the rules as I see fit and enact statistical tyranny as I so desire. Here are my scoring criteria, which I’ve named Tito’s Arbitrary Scoring Table for Europe (TASTE).
Why did I choose these numbers? Why didn’t I choose other numbers? Is this the product of lazy thinking from someone with no background in statistics or math in general? Why is this so important to me? Why do I have Mark Zuckerberg’s mortgage written in Church Latin? Some questions have no good answers.
Anyhow, here’s the TASTE table since the 2010-2011 season. Two bits of bookkeeping: first, group stage playoff means any games between the group stage and the round of 16; second, I subtracted 2 points for those teams that got knocked out of the Champions League but parachuted into the Europa League back when that was a thing because it seems to me there should be a penalty for being knocked down a level.
Did you? Did you scroll all the way to the right hand column? Of course you did. That’s why you saw it. You saw the sorting. Yes, by my completely meaningless and utterly biased standard, Fiorentina has done more in its European seasons than any other side in Italy. Roma’s done its best as well. Napoli, Milan, and Lazio, on the other hand, consistently flame out early. And full credit to Atalanta, which took a couple of years to figure out how this continental tournament thing worked before getting really quite good at it.
Vindication is a wonderful thing even when you have to torture some data into providing it. Fiorentina isn’t a European power even in my fevered imagination but it does make me rest easier seeing that, by at least one entirely fictional standard, the Viola have given more to their European efforts than any of their Serie A brethren. That all the other teams with more than a couple years in Europe over this span have averaged a higher league position and spent more money on salaries and transfer fees only reinforces the quixoticity.
Despite the disappointments and the shortcomings and the general incompetence, Fiorentina’s done its best, averaging a run to the quarterfinals in each of its European seasons. No, it’s not the same as going toe to toe with your Manchester Cities and your Reals Madrid but the Viola battle with an honor beyond any of their peers. For a fan base desperate for something positive, that’ll have to be enough.
LAKELAND, FL – The Detroit Tigers reassigned three players to minor league camp and optioned two players to Triple-A Toledo on Friday, March 6, in the fourth round of spring training roster cuts, leaving leaving 53 players remaining in MLB camp (not including two players on the 60-day injured list).
The five players: left-hander Jake Miller and left-handed reliever Drew Sommers were optioned to Triple-A, while catcher/first baseman Josue Briceño, right-handed reliever Matt Seelinger and outfielder Ben Malgeri were reassigned to minor league camp.
Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer Charles Barkley revealed which players he believes are the best in NBA history in a recent appearance on The Howard Eskin Show. But he controversially left Los Angeles Lakers legends Kobe Bryant and LeBron James out of his top five.
“Michael (Jordan), Oscar Robertson, Bill Russell, Kareem (Abdul-Jabbar), and Wilt (Chamberlain). Those are my top five. Bill Russell, Wilt, and Kareem, no particular order, but those are my five,” Barkley said.
Nov 21, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns former player Charles Barkley in attendance against the Minnesota Timberwolves during an NBA Cup game at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Jordan is considered by many, including James, to be the greatest player of all time. James has frequently called Jordan his biggest inspiration in basketball and even called him “Black Jesus”.
Robertson was another NBA superstar and became the first player in history to average a triple-double for an entire season in 1961-62. Russell was an NBA-record 11-time NBA champion and five-time NBA Most Valuable Player with the Boston Celtics.
Both Chamberlain and Abdul-Jabbar played for the Lakers at some point during their careers. Chamberlain won the 1972 NBA championship with the Lakers and was named the 1972 NBA Finals MVP. A few years later, Abdul-Jabbar and the “Showtime” Lakers won five NBA championships during the 1980s.
Barkley Included Bryant and James in His Top 10 Players in NBA History
Although Bryant and James did not make Barkley’s top five list, the pair were ranked No. 6 and No. 7 by the 11-time NBA All-Star.
“I’ve got six as Kobe Bryant. Seven is LeBron… Then I’ve got Magic (Johnson), (Larry) Bird, Jerry West, and probably Tim Duncan. That’s my top ten. But this is all personal opinion. I’m never putting anybody ahead of those first five. As much as I love LeBron as a player, I don’t think he’s better than Kobe Bryant.”
Bryant won five NBA championships with Los Angeles and was named the 2008 NBA MVP. Meanwhile, James won the 2020 NBA championship with the Lakers and was the NBA Finals MVP that season.
The two Los Angeles legends never played on the Lakers together. James joined the team in 2018 two years after Bryant retired in 2016. But the duo won two Olympic gold medals together in 2008 and 2012.
Feb 10, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) talks with Los Angeles Lakers forward Kobe Bryant (24) near the end of the Cavaliers’ 120-111 win at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
CBF reveals venue in Brazil for Seleção’s final friendly before the Copa
The farewell of the Brazilian National Team before traveling to the World Cup will be at the Maracanã.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced the decision this Friday (6).
The match will be a friendly between Brazil and Panama on May 31.
Check out the CBF's statement
The Brazilian National Team will face the Panama team in its farewell from the country before departing for the United States. The Amarelinha will take on the Central American team at the Maracanã on May 31, closing the first phase of preparation for the World Cup.
It will be the opportunity for Carlo Ancelotti's squad to present themselves for the last time in front of the Brazilian fans, marking the start of the quest for the sixth world championship.
The Panamanian team is currently ranked 33rd in the FIFA Ranking and is in group L of the World Cup, alongside England, Croatia, and Ghana.
For the CBF president, Samir Xaud, the match will seal the pact between the team and the fans aiming for the world's biggest national team tournament.
"I find it very symbolic that this farewell is in such an important and emblematic venue. The Maracanã is the home of the Brazilian National Team, a stadium known worldwide and that has always been the stage for great performances. Receiving the affection and support of the fans will be fundamental for the team, which will depart for the USA the very next day,” commented the official.
The Brazilian National Team will train at Granja Comary in the days leading up to the match. For coach Carlo Ancelotti, it is important to feel the warmth of the fans before heading to the World Cup competition.
"I really like the Maracanã, it is a grand stage that carries a lot of history. We have everything to perform at a high level in the World Cup, we are preparing very well, the players are proud to serve the National Team, and this energy exchange before the competition will be very good," he highlighted.
Rumors and speculation are heating up as free agency rapidly approaches, and the Pittsburgh Steelers were just tabbed as a landing spot for Stefon Diggs — one of the top wide receivers on the market following his release from the New England Patriots.
CBS Sports' Bryan DeArdo recently compiled the best team fits for Diggs, with the Steelers being among the five potential landing spots.
"The Steelers are basically in any conversation involving receivers after they unsuccessfully tried to land a proven veteran at the position last season. In Pittsburgh, Diggs would take some attention off DK Metcalf, who was consistently double-teamed during his first season with the Steelers," DeArdo wrote. "Diggs may be hesitant to go to Pittsburgh, however, given the team's uncertainty at quarterback. Aaron Rodgers remains a possibility, but Rodgers said Tuesday that he hasn't made a decision about what he will do in 2026."
DeArdo hit the nail on the head in every aspect of his argument — the Steelers will be tied to every available wide receiver, but the concerns at quarterback could scare many of them off, including Diggs.
Unless the Steelers can guarantee any free-agent wideout stability at their quarterback position, it may be hard to garner much interest this offseason. But money talks, as Pittsburgh currently holds the seventh-most cap space in the league and could drop another big contract to bring in a top receiver.
For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any offseason moves, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.
The Miami Dolphins are almost certainly ending the Tua Tagovailoa Era this offseason after he completed 67.7% of his passes for 2,660 yards, 20 touchdowns and a career-high 15 interceptions and sat for the final three games of the year while Quinn Ewers led the offense.
While moving on from Tagovailoa will be costly, the Dolphins seemed primed to make it happen, and if they do, they'll likely have to roll with a cheaper option for 2026 while they deal with the cap ramifications of Tagovailoa's departure.
"Well, the Jets could potentially give him a shot to start, and the Dolphins might be interested," Breer wrote. "Getting him at the minimum for a year would make sense for a team carrying all the Tua Tagovailoa money into 2026 (after presumably cutting him)."
Murray, 28, played collegiately at Texas A&M and Oklahoma, earning All-American honors and winning the Heisman Trophy in 2018 before the Arizona Cardinals took him with the first-overall pick in the 2019 NFL draft.
Over the last seven years, Murray has started 87 games and has led Arizona to a 38-48-1 record. He's completed 67.1% of his passes for 20,460 yards, 121 touchdowns and 60 interceptions while rushing for an additional 3,193 yards and 32 touchdowns on 6.0 yards per attempt.
Two 2019 Offensive Rookie of the Year and two-time Pro Bowler returned from a torn ACL this year and wasn't horrible, but with the Cardinals changing out their head coach and Murray set to have a $54 million cap hit, they're reportedly moving on from the quarterback.
Murray will likely be an inexpensive option for the Dolphins this offseason, and if offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik can get the most out of him, they could turn things around quicker than expected in South Florida.
The New York Jets are looking to find a new starting quarterback for the 2026 NFL season. While Kyler Murray, the top option, might be headed to the Minnesota Vikings, there is another couple of other QBs the Jets could target.
But Kirk Cousins and Tua Tagovailoa might not be the top options for the Jets. Instead, a different veteran quarterback might be at the top of their list this offseason.
As SNY's Connor Hughes reports, the Jets are strongly linked to a former Philadelphia Eagles and Minnesota Vikings QB, Carson Wentz, as a possible starter for the2026 seaosn.
Jets strongly linked to Carson Wentz in free agency
"No Kirk Cousins, but watch Geno Smith and Carson Wentz," Hughes reports. "...One source told me that the QB Reich prefers is Wentz. A quote from another: 'No one loves Wentz more than Frank.'"
This report from Hughes is a very big one for the Jets. This is a very strong link to Wentz, a quarterback who has strong ties to Reich, the new Jets offensive coordinator.
They overlapped with the Indianapolis Colts and the Philadelphia Eagles, and all things considered, Wentz was a solid starter during his time with both teams.
For the Eagles, he was a Pro Bowler in 2017 and, overall, was a solid starter. He had a 62.7% completion rate, 16,811 passing yards, 113 touchdowns, and 50 interceptions.
With the Colts, he had 3,563 passing yards with a 62.4% completion rate to go with 27 passing touchdowns and seven interceptions.
Last season, he made five starts for the Vikings. He went 2-3, completing 65.1% of his passes for 1,216 yards, six touchdowns, and five interceptions.
The 33-year-old quarterback would be heading into his 11th season in the NFL. If the Vikings sign Murray, which looks likely, then Wentz would be a decent fallback option for the Jets.
While he's not the most exciting starter, if Reich, the new offensive play caller, really wants him, then there's at least some optimism that the marriage between QB and OC will be a positive for the Jets in 2026.
It's safe to say that the Oregon Ducks men's basketball season hasn't gone according to plan, or anything close to it. Prior to their season-finale coming up on Saturday against the Washington Huskies at Matthew Knight Arena, the Ducks are 11-19 and 4-15 in Big Ten play.
But that doesn't mean that a program known for making it to the NCAA Tournament and routinely winning 20 games a season isn't down and out on the recruiting trail. They've already received the commitment of four-star small forward Tajh Ariza and are in the mix for another talented small forward in Boyuan Zhang, who will take an official visit to Oregon this weekend, per On3's Joe Tipton.
Zhang is rated as a four-star and is the No. 38 SF and No. 99 player overall in the 2026 class, per 247 Sports Composite. He competes for Veritas Prep in Garden Grove, CA, where he's the seventh-ranked player in the state.
Originally from China, the Ducks offered Zhang on February 22. He has already taken official visits to Illinois, Cal and Minnesota.
As for what he's looking for in his prospective school, the 6-foot-8 recruit lamented that he wants to play right away.
"I think it’s playing time," Zhang told Tipton. "Playing time is important. I don’t want to stay on the bench my freshman year. I want to play on the court and show everybody I can do a lot of things and stay on the court. That’s what’s important. Another thing is which college coach can help me to improve my bad things to good things. I can shoot and just keep my shooting. My bad things just improve."
Along with injuries, lacking wing production has been one of the main culprits behind the Ducks' disappointment this season. In Ariza and potentially Zhang, Oregon would quickly replenish that spot and put themselves in position to be competitive in the Big Ten next season.
Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.
The Iowa Hawkeyes have faltered a bit down the stretch, but the overall body of work and the record speak for themselves. The Hawkeyes are looking like an NCAA Tournament-bound team with the resume, and as Selection Sunday approaches, it is hard to see Iowa not making the field of 68.
Iowa dropped a heartbreaker to Michigan at home in a game where they had the Wolverines on the ropes with chances to deliver the knockout punch, only to come up just short. Still, Iowa is holding just fine in the NCAA Tournament and has not seen any seeding slippage in the ESPN bracketology projections.
Last Four Byes: Ohio State, Texas A&M, Missouri, Texas
Last Four In: Santa Clara, SMU, Indiana, New Mexico
First Four Out: VCU, Auburn, Virginia Tech, Cincinnati
Next Four Out: California, San Diego State, Stanford, Seton Hall
Conference Breakdown
Big Ten: 10
SEC: 10
ACC: 8
Big 12: 8
Big East: 3
West Coast: 3
Mountain West: 2
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 Riley on X: @rileydonald7
At tackle, both Trent Williams and Colton McKivitz under contract to play left and right tackle, respectively, for the 2026 season, but the former is set to become a free agent after the year.
With that, San Francisco has an immediate need at left guard, and they need to start planning for the future. That could start this year, as according to On3's Pete Nakos, the 49ers met with Oregon offensive tackle Alex Harkey at the NFL combine.
Harkey, played at Jack C. Hays High School in Buda, Texas, before spending two years at Tyler Junior College, one at Colorado, two at Texas State and one final year at Oregon.
The 24-year-old began his collegiate journey as a tight end before switching to offensive tackle, and he eventually earned All-Sun Belt honors for his efforts in the 2024 season, his final at Texas State.
While Harkey has the size of a guard at 6-foot-6 and 308 pounds, his short arm length has many predicting that he'll kick inside to guard.
Most projections have him going on Day 3 of the draft, so San Francisco should have plenty of opportunities to bring him in and get him working at either tackle or guard this year. However, we'd have to really impress to start at any spot in 2026.
Charles Oliveira thinks his resume surpasses two lightweight greats.
Oliveira (36-11 MMA, 23-11 UFC), a former UFC lightweight champion, is the record holder for most finishes and submissions in UFC history. Those finishes include Justin Gaethje, Dustin Poirier, and Michael Chandler.
The Brazilian superstar was asked where his resume ranks amongst the likes of Khabib Nurmagomedov, who defended his lightweight title three times, and Islam Makhachev, who holds the record for most title defenses at four.
"Each and every one of us and them has their moments and their eras," Oliveira said in an interview with UFC on Paramount+. "You talk about Khabib who stepped away from the game undefeated. Islam is making history, two-division champion, but when you look at the resume, the wins, the records, and what I've been through, I believe that my resume is the best."
Oliveira will look to add another belt when he challenges BMF champion Max Holloway (27-8 MMA, 23-8 UFC) in Saturday's UFC 326 (Paramount+, CBS) main event at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Martin O'Neill has been speaking to the media before Celtic's trip to Ibrox to face Rangers in the Scottish Cup quarter-final on Sunday.
Here are the key lines from the Celtic boss:
There are a "couple of niggles" from the midweek win at Aberdeen and Kieran Tierney is a doubt although the foot injury he suffered at Pittodrie is "clearing up".
O'Neill says Tierney has been "colossal for us" and has been "getting back to almost complete fitness" this season.
Goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel has trained for the first time since missing the past three games. Asked if he'd have a decision to make over whether to start Schmeichel, if fit, or Viljami Sinisalo, O'Neill says: "We'll see. That's the nature of the business, you make big decisions at times."
As Celtic prepare for their third away game in a week, O'Neill admits it has "been a tall order for us" but is pleased they got through Wednesday night's game at Pittodrie with victory.
Following last week's 2-2 draw at Ibrox, O'Neill knows Celtic "need to start better" and jokes "if we play like we did in the first half we shouldn't turn up", but the second-half display "gave us great confidence". The fightback from two down was "testament to the players' character".
O'Neill, who admits he has been "advocating" for a return to full away allocations in derby fixtures, is excited to play in front of 7,500 Celtic fans at Ibrox this weekend.
He adds: "I shouldn't be interfering in what police say, but it's a 1pm kick-off, isn't it? And they were asking our fans to be in for 10am. Will they get breakfast in there? It's pretty early isn't it? Even by normal standards."
The 74-year-old admits it would be a "big boost" for his side to get into the semi-finals but "isn't sure" it will have any bearing on league form.
O'Neill stresses "we're miles away from winning anything" and suggests Celtic fans have been "spoiled" in recent years with "no real challenge" for the league title.
But he admits this season has been "a challenge" for Celtic with both Hearts and Rangers stepping up their game. He adds: "The overall picture should be a wake-up call for the club."
Having already missed out on one trophy this season, O'Neill recalls 2003 when they reached the Uefa Cup final but won nothing domestically and says "you've still got Celtic fans saying it was one of the best seasons ever".
There's a lot of uncertainty entering NFL free agency, but this seems certain: the Denver Broncos are set to add a running back.
J.K. Dobbins is scheduled to become a free agent next week, and while he would like to return, it remains to be seen if the Broncos will offer him an extension. Denver currently has just three running backs under contract — RJ Harvey, Cody Schrader and Deuce Vaughn — so it's all but guaranteed the team will address the position.
1. Kenneth Walker (25): The Super Bowl MVP is the top running back available after the Jets opted to use their franchise tag on Breece Hall. After rushing for 1,027 yards and five touchdowns last season, Walker has a projected market value between $12 million and $16 million per season. That's a big price, and it would certainly qualify as a splash.
2. Tyler Allgeier (25): There's no shame in being the RB2 behind Bijan Robinson, and Allgeier was a 1,000-yard rusher before Robinson arrived in Atlanta. Allgeier rushed for 514 yards and eight touchdowns last season, and he's one of the best pass-blocking backs in the NFL. Allgeier is also yet to fumble after 737 career touches. When one considers that Allgeier's projected market value ($5.7 million) is less than half of Walker's, Allgeier might be the most enticing option for Denver.
3. Travis Etienne (27): The former first-round pick quietly racked up 5,136 yards from scrimmage and scored 32 touchdowns in 66 games with the Jaguars. He rushed for 1,107 yards and seven scores last fall while adding 292 receiving yards and six touchdown catches.
4. Rico Dowdle (27): He might not be as flashy as the first three names on the list, but Dowdle has topped 1,000 yards in consecutive seasons, scoring 12 touchdowns. He averaged 4.6 yards per carry with Dallas (2024) and Carolina (2025).
5. J.K. Dobbins (27): Dobbins ranked fourth in the NFL with 772 rushing yards through the first 10 games of the 2025 campaign before suffering a season-ending foot injury. He's been productive when healthy, but the Broncos probably can't count on him to be their RB1 for an entire season.
6. Rachaad White (27): He rushed for 572 yards and four touchdowns last season and could be a budget option to join Harvey in Denver's backfield.
NFL teams can begin negotiating with pending free agents from other clubs on March 9, but potential signings won't become official until the new league year begins on March 11. Teams can re-sign their in-house free agents at any time. RB watch begins soon in Denver.
One former Detroit Tigers standout is, very briefly, getting back into baseball.
The Kalamazoo Growlers of the independent Northwoods League have signed former Tigers slugger Cecil Fielder to a one-day contract, but not as a player. The 62-year-old Fielder will be a first-base coach for the Growlers' July 31 game against the Richmond Flying Mummies while also getting to set the lineup.
Fielder played for the Tigers from 1990-96, where he hit 245 of his 319 career home runs and finished second in the American League MVP race in consecutive years from 1990-91. His son, Prince Fielder, played for the Tigers from 2012-13, where he hit 55 of his 319 career home runs.
"Cecil Fielder is a World Series Champion and we’re grateful that he’s choosing to come to Kalamazoo for one game this summer," Growlers owner Brian Colopy said in a statement. "He means so much to the Michigan baseball community and he’s going to coach our players, talk to the Jr. Growlers, which is memorable for the kids and then meet the amazing Growlers fans that come out to see him."
The Growlers are one of four Michigan-based teams in the Northwoods League, a summer wood-bat league for college baseball players. The Growlers were established in 2013 and have won two league championships (2022 and 2024).
Single-game tickets for the Growlers go on sale on May 4, with special ticket packages for Cecil Fielder Night starting at $28.
The wait is finally over, Celtics fans. Jayson Tatum is back.
ESPN's Shams Charania reported that the six-time All-Star is expected to return on Friday night when Boston faces Dallas at the TD Garden. Tatum will rejoin the rotation nearly 10 months after he underwent surgery to repair a torn Achilles tendon.
While Tatum will have to build up his conditioning before the playoffs, his presence on both ends of the floor should raise Boston's ceiling. How will he perform in his season debut?
Here is everything you need to know about Celtics vs. Mavericks, including TV and streaming options for Friday's game.
How to watch Jayson Tatum return tonight: TV channel, live stream for Celtics vs. Mavericks
TV channel: NBC Sports Boston (local), ESPN (national)
Celtics vs. Mavericks will air locally on NBC Sports Boston and nationally on ESPN. The game will also be available to stream on the ESPN app.
Now you can watch ESPN without cable. Stream live NBA, NFL, NHL, MLB and college sports, plus "SportsCenter," "First Take" and all your favorite ESPN shows — anytime, anywhere — only in the new ESPN app.
For those looking to follow the game on the radio, the local broadcast will air on 98.5 The Sports Hub.
Celtics vs. Mavericks start time
Date: Friday, March 6
Time: 7 p.m. ET
Celtics vs. Mavericks is scheduled to start at 7 p.m. ET on Friday, March 6. The game will be played at the TD Garden in Boston.
The Los Angeles Lakers had their three-game win streak snapped Thursday night, falling at the hands of Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets.
As usual, Luka Doncic led the way for the Lakers, finishing with 27 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists and four steals.
Jaxson Hayes impressed off the bench, scoring 19 points on 8-for-10 shooting to go along with five rebounds and two assists.
LeBron James and Austin Reaves added 16 points each.
With another relatively low scoring performance from Reaves, fans are beginning to have doubts about the fifth-year guard.
Heading into Thursday's game, Reaves had played poorly to begin the month of March. In Los Angeles' first two games, Reaves was averaging 13.5 points on an abysmal 29.2% from the field and 30.8% from three-point range.
Although two games is a small sample size, Reaves' performances have shown a decline every month this season.
Reaves started the year off hot through the first few games of the season, averaging 32 points per game in October. In November, Reaves dropped slightly, averaging 26.9 points per game to go along with 1.1 steals.
Seven games in the month of December saw more regression for Reaves, as his points per game total dropped even lower to 21.6. After missing the entire month of January due to injury, Reaves' scoring numbers dropped again in February, averaging 19.4 points in 10 games during the month.
Although points aren't everything, Reaves' recent performances and especially poor shooting splits are nothing short of concerning.
Considering he's been rumored to get a max contract offer this summer, Lakers fans are beginning to question whether or not he's worth the money.
Steph De Lander has explained the reason why she asked TNA to release her, months before the end of her contract.
De Lander and her husband Mance Warner ended their time in the promotion this past week and she revealed in an interview with "Fightul Select" that she asked to be let ago after being informed by the promotion that they wouldn't clear her to wrestle. Her contract with the promotion was set to expire in June. The promotion was apparently unsure about her injury history, despite WWE clearing her through its specialists. De Lander said that she had to shoulder the cost of surgeries and physical therapy. She revealed to the outlet that she and Warner were paid by appearance and did not receive guaranteed money from the promotion. After they were told they would be booked only once for the upcoming TV tapings instead of the original two-day booking, they decided to leave, as the reduced dates would affect their income.
De Lander, who debuted in TNA back in 2023, hasn't wrestled in the promotion since 2024. She stated in the interview that she is eager to wrestle in indie promotions, as well as in countries like Mexico, Japan, and the UK, while she specifically wants to face AEW's Megan Bayne too.
Liverpool once again look for victory at Molineux, though this time it’s cup progression rather that three points that would reward Arne Slot’s side.
Though Florian Wirtz may be available to play some minutes, this would be a “best case scenario” as the midfielder is progressing through rehab work on his back issue.
Elsewhere, Liverpool head coach Arne Slot will need to respond to Tuesday’s loss while managing fitness levels around the quick turnaround between Tuesday and Friday. Speaking to the press ahead of today’s match, Slot said that he has “some options” despite the challenges:
“We have a few, but we don’t have 11, as you know. But we do have a few options. I always have options to bring in and players you can bring in, you can also let them start. So we do have a few options.
“But again, not for the first time this season that three days after a game, we’ve again dropped points. And that is something I’ve seen us doing quite a lot this season. And now it’s again three days after the last one. So, we have to be better than we were the last time we played Wolves.”
Speaking later on in yesterday’s press conference, Slot emphasized how managing workload must combine with the importance of progression in his line-up selection: “We will have a strong line-up tomorrow. But we’re also fully aware, I’m also fully aware, of the fact of how many games we are playing.
“It’s three games in seven days many times for us this season. And now again. And we go again [week after next] with Spurs on Sunday, Wednesday Galatasaray, Saturday early kick-off. So that’s now probably the fifth or the sixth time this season that we play three games in seven days.
“So I, we are aware of that as well and sometimes you take that into account in the line-up or in playing time.
“Because, yeah, it’s always by choice that you take Jeremie [Frimpong] off but I don’t think it was smart for him to play 90 and that’s why we took him off [on Tuesday].”
Frimpong could feature again today as he returns to full fitness following his own time out with injury.
Lyon’s Ainsley Maitland-Niles to miss Europa League knockout round tie against Celta Vigo
Olympique Lyonnais’ Ainsley Maitland-Niles (28) “is expected to be out for two weeks,” announced his coach Paulo Fonseca at a press conference.
A starter in Thursday’s French Cup quarter-final defeat to RC Lens (2-2, 4-5 a.p.), the Englishman was forced to give way to Hans Hateboer (32) with 20 minutes remaining. Subsequent tests revealed that he had suffered an adductor injury.
Already ruled out of Sunday evening’s Ligue 1 match against Paris FC, Maitland-Niles is also unlikely to feature in the double-header against Celta Vigo in the Europa League round of 16. His participation in next weekend’s league match against Le Havre is also compromised.
Yet another blow for OL, already missing numerous players, who will also be unable to call upon Hateboer or Noham Kamara (19) against the Spanish side, as neither player is registered on the UEFA list.
Malick Fofana (20), Ernest Nuamah (22), Afonso Moreira (20), Pavel Šulc (25) and Ruben Kluivert (24) are also likely to remain sidelined for the next few days.
OSAKA, JAPAN - MARCH 02: Shohei Ohtani #16 of team Japan warms up during the 2026 World Baseball Classic exhibition game presented by Capital One between Team Japan and Orix Buffaloes at Kyocera Dome Osaka on Monday, March 2, 2026 in Osaka, Japan. (Photo by Daniel Shirey/WBCI/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Today the World Baseball Classic’s group stage enters full swing as pool play games kick off in Houston, Miami, and San Juan. Not counting the 3:00 AM MST match between Japan and Chinese Taipei—which was included in yesterday’s game thread—and including tomorrow’s 3:00 AM match, there are eight World Baseball Classic games today!
Game No. 1: Cuba (República de Cuba) at Panama (República de Panamá)
Venue: Hiram Bithorn Stadium — San Juan, Puerto Rico
First Pitch: 9:00 AM MST
TV: FS2
Radio: MLB Audio; Sirius XM
Lineups:
Game No. 2: The Netherlands (Nederland) at Venezuela (República Bolivariana de Venezuela)
Venue: loanDepot Park — Miami, Florida, USA
First Pitch: 10:00 AM MST
TV: Tubi
Radio: MLB Audio; Sirius XM
Lineups:
Game No. 3: Mexico (Estados Unidos Mexicanos) at Great Britain
Venue: Daikin Park — Houston, Texas, USA
First Pitch: 11:00 AM MST
TV: FS1
Radio: MLB Audio; Sirius XM
Lineups:
Game No. 4: Puerto Rico at Colombia (República de Colombia)
Venue: Hiram Bithorn Stadium — San Juan, Puerto Rico
First Pitch: 4:00 PM MST
TV: FS1
Radio: MLB Audio; Sirius XM
Lineups:
Game No. 5: Nicaragua (República de Nicaragua) at Dominican Republic (República Dominicana)
Venue: loanDepot Park — Miami, Florida, USA
First Pitch: 5:00 PM MST
TV: FS2
Radio: MLB Audio; Sirius XM
Lineups:
Game No. 6: United States at Brazil (República Federativa do Brasil)
Venue: Daikin Park — Houston, Texas, USA
First Pitch: 6:00 PM MST
TV: Fox
Radio: MLB Audio; Sirius XM
Lineups:
Game No. 7: Chinese Taipei ( 中華臺北) at Czechia (Česká)
Jan 4, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce (14) catches a touchdown pass against the Houston Texans during the first half at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images | Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
The 49ers desperately need to address the wide receiver position this offseason, and it appears as if they are prepared to do so with a substantial investment in free agency.
San Francisco will part company with Brandon Aiyuk when the new league year opens next week, and Jauan Jennings appears likely to go elsewhere in free agency.
Those departures will leave the receiver depth chart looking extremely shaky and, while it is a strong draft at the position, the Niners would benefit from having a proven commodity come in at wideout.
And, per Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, the 49ers are keen on two pending free agent receivers who are likely to command lucrative deals.
Responding to a question about rumors surrounding the 49ers in a mailbag article, Breer wrote of the receiver spot: “Help is needed, for sure. Along those lines, I’ve heard they have an interest in both Alec Pierce and Romeo Doubs on the free-agent market.
“And failing that, there’s a deep class in the draft, with Indiana’s Omar Cooper Jr. sticking out as a nice fit for San Francisco.”
Pierce in line for big payday
Pierce and Doubs should both be the subject of a lot of interest when the NFL’s ‘legal tampering’ period opens on Monday, though it is the former who may command a more lucrative deal.
Indeed, Pierce has a market value of $20.24 million per year, per Spotrac, while Doubs is down at just over $12 million.
A clear gap in production is the reason for that disparity. Pierce is coming of a 1,000-yard season for the Indianapolis Colts in which he led the NFL in yards per reception for the second season running, averaging 21.3 yards in 2025 after averaging 22.3 yards in 2024.
Doubs, meanwhile, has never put up 800 yards in a season, his production limited in part by the number of mouths the Green Bay Packers have had to feed in recent years.
Yet both fit the mold the 49ers are likely to be looking for at wideout as they bid to replace Aiyuk and fill a gaping void at X receiver. Both can play the X and stretch the field significantly while doing so, though it is Pierce who stands as the greater threat in this regard.
Pierce’s average depth of target last year was 20 yards, and he had five touchdowns on 28 targets of 20 yards or more, per PFF. Doubs, meanwhile, caught nine of his 18 such targets for 293 yards and one touchdown. His average depth of target was 12.9 yards.
Both receivers fit with an offense that is, when Brock Purdy is healthy and starting at quarterback, more predicated on aggressive throws than it is on yardage after the catch, with neither Pierce nor Doubs having particularly excelled in the latter area.
Doubs has had issues with drops earlier in his career, but he had only three on 85 targets in 2025, though that was still inferior to Piece, who dropped just one of his 84 targets. Yet Doubs does have a marginal edge in one area.
Doubs the smarter signing
Average separation is an imperfect statistic because it doesn’t differentiate between man and zone coverage. Still, Doubs, per NextGenStats, averaged 2.3 yards last season, just ahead of Pierce on 2.1. Doubs posted those numbers while receiving an average cushion of six yards, compared to 6.3 for Pierce.
And to watch Doubs is to watch a receiver who looks the archetypal Kyle Shanahan receiver, which makes sense given he has spent his entire career playing in what is foundationally the same scheme under Matt LaFleur.
Doubs wins consistently with his release, marrying change of direction quickness with intelligent hand usage. He also has the stop-start quickness to thrive on the timing routes that are a staple of the Shanahan scheme.
It is highly unlikely the 49ers will push to sign both Pierce and Doubs. If there is such a significant disparity in opportunity cost, then Doubs stands out as the better option who would allow the 49ers to commit more cap space to other positions.
The 49ers’ receiving depth chart will look a lot different this time next week, but it will look a lot better if one of Pierce or Doubs is on it.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - MARCH 05: UFC president and CEO Dana White is seen on stage during the UFC 326 press conference at MGM Grand Garden Arena on March 05, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)
Dana White says the UFC White House card will become a reality this Saturday during the UFC 326 broadcast.
At Thursday’s UFC 326 pre-fight press conference in Las Vegas, White was asked when he expects an official announcement to be made for the historic card scheduled to take place at the White House on June 14.
The question was a follow-up to a comment White made in an interview with Piers Morgan, in which he told the interviewer that he expects the UFC White House lineup to include six to seven fights, and that those fights will be announced this week.
White has now confirmed the news should arrive Saturday evening, with the UFC 326 broadcast beginning on CBS and then continuing on the Paramount+ streaming service.
“I’m looking at it right now. I’m staring at all six fights,” White told Morgan. “We’re scheduled to do six fights. We were going to do six fights, we might actually do seven, I might add one more, but yeah, I’m excited.
“I’ll announce the board this week.”
A multitude of marquee names have been tied to the event, including Conor McGregor, Jon Jones, and Alex Pereira, among others. Speculation has been rampant as to who will land one of the coveted UFC White House spots, but as of now, no names have been confirmed for the event.
White has found the abundance of rumors amusing.
“Every day when I wake up, somebody will send me a leak, like, ‘This fight’s happening,’” White said. “All these guys on the internet are putting out every fight that is possible to make out there that is happening at the White House. I think if they keep throwing enough shit out there, something’s going to stick, and eventually they have to be right. Everybody at each weight class, the top 15, they keep putting together every fight that’s possible, so eventually they’re going to be right.”
Head Coaches: Jake Boss Jr. (18th season, 496-450) & Will Bolt (7th season, 177-131-1)
TV/Stream: B1G+
Radio: All Nebraska games on Huskers Radio Network, Huskers.com, Huskers App
Nebraska baseball goes into conference play having won both of its mid-week games since returning home to Haymarket Park. It’s riding the hot bats of Dylan Carey, and Mac Moyer. Carey is fresh off a 5 for 5 game, the first 5 hit game for a Husker since Gunner Hellstrom in 2018. Carey is leading all Big Ten batters in both hits (28) and doubles (8) and is 2nd in avg. (.509). He is piling up the RBIs with Moyer reaching base at a .592 clip. He is tied for the Big Ten lead with 13 walks.
Nebraska should also be getting Will Jesske back after a week off due to feeling a twing in his hamstring Friday night at Auburn. Husker coach Will Bolt said he was going to pinch hit if needed the last inning against South Dakota State, but didn’t want him playing the field yet with the cold weather. Jesske has 3 home runs on the year, but with the amount of hits on the barrel he has had at some giant ballparks, he could be close to the Big Ten lead if he played all his games at a place like Haymarket Park.
The Spartans had the biggest upset of the first week of the season, taking the series from then #8 Louisville by winning the first 2 games 4-3 and 13-4. They have struggled mightily since, going 1-8 against a pretty rough schedule. They went from Louisville to #3 Texas and were swept by a combined score of 15-2 in 3 games.
They have a yearly “residency” as they call it, in Greenville, South Carolina early every year, thanks to a big alumni base in the area. They struggled to put up runs in those 2 weeks, never putting up more than 4. Their lone win was a 4-1 victory over Albany, and they ended the residency on a sour note, with a 7 inning run rule loss to #10 Clemson, 12-1. Husker pitchers will need to limit walks and hit batters, and should be able to manage the lineup if they can.
Game 1: RHP Ty Horn (0-0, 4.05 ERA) vs. RHP Aidan Donovan (0-1, 3.95 ERA)
Game 2: RHP Carson Jasa (1-1, 7.71 ERA) vs. RHP Carter Monke (1-1, 2.35 ERA)
Game 3: RHP Gavin Blachowicz (1-1, 2.31 ERA) vs. RHP Logan Pikur (0-2, 7.30 ERA)
It was a rough weekend for Husker starting pitching. In fact, in 2026 no weekend starter has turned in a quality start. Ty Horn started strong, piling up strikeouts in the first couple innings before a couple hits and an error jump started the Tigers’ offense. Still looking for him to work on getting through the order a couple times in a more efficient fashion. It would really behoove Friday starters to go longer so the bullpen is more available the next two days. That is just as big of a deal as being dominant for 5 innings.
Really nothing went right on Saturday for Carson Jasa. Well, he could locate his fastball for strikes, but that was about it, and Auburn quickly realized it. 2 walks and a hit batter went a long way to giving up 4 earned runs in his lone inning of work, but Auburn learned to just sit and hunt his fastball, and when you connect with a 97 mph fastball, it tends to go a long way. Regaining a feel for his cutter/change and slider is really all he can do.
Even the most steady of the starters for the first 2 weeks had a rough go. Gavin Blachowicz seemed to get out of an issue with minimal damage in the 2nd inning against Auburn in which an error led to a run being scored, but a wild pitch and then giving up a no doubter 3 run home run, opened the game up. Rather than let him work out of it, Nebraska had a couple strong options in the bullpen to turn to, so they let Kevin Mannell come out and get some work in to try and regain his confidence. Blachowicz needs to work on not letting a mistake turn into a big inning, and he should regain his form.
MSU had 2 starting pitcher and kinda filled in the Sunday position last season. They lost Big Ten Pitcher of the Year Joseph Dzierwa, and their Saturday guy was moved to a long relief role. Aidan Donovan was mostly a mid-week starter last season, but has moved into the Friday role. He showed a lot of promise as a freshman in 2025, with a 2-3 record and 4.70 ERA. He pitched well against Louisville and Texas, but struggled in his last outing against Illinois. Don’t look for him to pile up strike outs or go deep into the game, his season high is 5 innings and he has 10 strikeouts in his 13.2 innings so far.
Carter Monke is a grad transfer from Illinois State. He started 14 games in his 2 years at ISU, and had a 6.16 ERA, striking out 67 in 83 innings of work. Despite those numbers, he has pitched very well to start 2026. He started 2 of their 3 wins, and in his loss only gave up 1 earned run in 6.1 innings against Texas. Logan Pikur led the team in appearances the past 2 seasons, but has really struggled moving into the starting rotation. He has a career ERA over 7.00 and career batting average against of .315. Nebraska’s offense should be ready to roll Sunday.
Scouting Report
The Spartans returned a lot of position players, but from an offense that really struggled in 2025. They have far and away the fewest hits of any Big Ten team currently, a combo of their offensive struggles and their incredible strength of schedule. They have only 62 hits on the year. The next lowest is 83, and Nebraska by contrast, has 132. They have scored only 33 runs on the season. Nebraska is below average in the B1G, but still has scored 78 runs.
Everything starts with returning 2nd Team All-Big Ten second baseman Ryan McKay. Like everyone, he’s had a rough start to the year. A .250 average and only 1 double from a guy that hit .306 with 20 home runs a season ago. He epitomizes the team’s philosophy of working deep into counts, but not striking out. He has as many walks in his career as strikeouts. He also likes to run, already with 4 stolen bases despite the limited opportunities.
Sliding over from short stop to first base, senior Randy Seymour is leading the team in most hitting categories so far, batting .256, with 2 home runs and 3 doubles. He is a very free swinger though, striking out 11 and only walking once. The team was also expecting big things out of outfielder Parker Picot, and in the second game of the season, he delivered, hitting 2 home runs and driving in 8 RBIs in the 13-4 win over Louisville. Other than that game, he is 1 for 25 with 1 RBI.
The Spartans landed a huge recruit in 3B/OF CJ Decking. They beat out a long list of Big Ten and SEC programs to get him out of Illinois. Needless to say, a freshman starting his career playing against a top 10 team in 6 out of 8 games has been a rough go. He’s batting .100 with 7 strikeouts, but he will explode eventually.
The MIchigan State bullpen is solid. They don’t strike a ton out as a group, but keep guys off the basepaths, only walking 40 in 93+ innings. Last season’s Saturday starter, Gannon Grundman has transitioned into a bullpen role. He leads the team with 6 appearances, He’s had 2 terrible outings, allowing 4 runs against Texas and 6 against Clemson, ballooning his ERA to 14.04
One of their better arms is Tommy Szczepanski. He stands 6’5 and 235 lbs, and will appear in late game situations. He has 13 strikeouts in 8.2 innings, but also has 8 walks already on the year. He has 1 of the team’s 2 saves on the year.
Per usual, Michigan State is solid on defense. Something to be expected with a SS moving over to first baseman. They currently sit at a 98.2 fielding percentage.
Series History
Nebraska leads the all time series 21-11 against Michigan State. They last met in the opening game of the Big Ten Tournament last year. Nebraska won 5-4 in 10 innings in a game that will long be remembered. The Spartan right fielder dropped the final out in the 9th in what due to the setup of the tournament was essentially an elimination game. That allowing Nebraska to start their improbable run to be Big Ten Champions.
Dylan Carey is 2 doubles shy of owning the career record at Nebraska, currently held by head coach Will Bolt. With the tear he is on, and how up and down the Spartan pitching staff is, a new record by the end of the weekend is not out of the question.
Bayern Munich's French midfielder #17 Michael Olise reacts during the German first division Bundesliga football match between FC Bayern Munich and Eintracht Frankfurt in Munich, southern Germany, on February 21, 2026. (Photo by Alexandra BEIER / AFP via Getty Images) / DFL REGULATIONS PROHIBIT ANY USE OF PHOTOGRAPHS AS IMAGE SEQUENCES AND/OR QUASI-VIDEO | AFP via Getty Images
Here we are again, back to this stupid rumor started by a nobody Twitter account.
According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Bayern Munich have no intention of selling or even negotiating for Michael Olise at present. Liverpool FC appreciate the player but have other more realistic targets to look at.
Most importantly, there is NO release clause in his contract.
The quote was captured by @iMiaSanMia whose comments are filled with users mocking a certain twitter account who started the rumor in the first place. It’s a long story that goes all the way back to the Florian Wirtz saga, which is not worth covering here because of how stupid and infuriating it is.
The simple fact is: there is no reason to believe a rumor started by some random account, no matter how strangely official they might look or how many followers they have. Verified sources like Romano have actual insider knowledge and are worth sharing. Everyone else? Less than dirt.
This is especially true in the modern era of Twitter where the blue check means rage bait and interaction bait fuel the website. Untrue rumors are spread around just because they’re what people want to hear. This Olise to Liverpool thing was started the same way, and it’s an indictment of the current media landscape that it was allowed to gain so much momentum.
The Txuri-Urdin were a Benat Turrientes goal to the good from the first leg at San Mames, and while things remained tight at Anoeta, a Mikel Oyarzabal penalty with three minutes to go allowed the home fans to relax a little. That sealed their progress 2-0 on aggregate, and booked their place in the final in Seville on the 18th of April, where they will face Atletico Madrid.
The Orri Oskarsson song
The soundtrack to their journey to Seville will be their own take on a Bad Bunny hit, Cafe con ron [Coffee with rum]. After Oskarsson scored the winner in their 3-2 win over Alaves in the quarter-final, the Orri Oskarsson song was popularised to the tune of Cafe con ron. The lyrics are as follows.
“In the morning coffee, In the afternoon rum, Take me to Sevilla, Orri Oskarsson.”
Oskarsson leads Anoeta in rendition of his song
Following Real Sociedad’s Copa del Rey victory on Wednesday, as the players celebrated with the fans, Oskarsson was invited to take control of the loudspeaker normally wielded by the singing section. Oskarsson did a fine job of whipping up his fans.
Oskarsson finding some form at Real Sociedad
After a difficult debut campaign in Donostia-San Sebastian, the Icelandic forward has found some form since the arrival of Pellegrino Matarazzo in the dugout. Despite playing just 239 minutes, Oskarsson has five goals (12 appearances) to his name. Four of those have come since the start of February. He is already approaching last season’s total of seven, which came in 37 appearances following a €20m move from Copenhagen.
“I’m going to” – Liam Rosenior drops big team selection hint ahead of Wrexham game
Liam Rosenior has confirmed he’s going to “use the squad” ahead of Chelsea’s FA Cup tie with Wrexham on Saturday.
The Blues travel to north Wales looking to book their place in the quarter finals as they continue their quest for a first piece of domestic silverware since 2018.
It’s the third time in as many rounds that Chelsea will have been away at Championship opposition, and this will probably be their toughest test yet.
Liam Rosenior on squad rotation for Wrexham game
Having played Aston Villa on Wednesday night, and with a huge game against PSG in the Champions League next week, Rosenior is set to make changes.
In fact, speaking ahead of the game Rosenior has confirmed his intentions, and stated he’s going to use the squad.
The Blues last won the competition under Antonio Conte in 2018, and a win would see them advance to the last eight, and within one match of a return Wembley, which is an opportunity the club can’t afford to miss out on.
Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:
The Tennessee Titans and Las Vegas Raiders need help at wide receiver, so it comes as no surprise they have a future Hall of Famer who is set to hit free agency on their respective radars.
However, Pauline notes that Evans returning to the Bucs remains a "real possibility."
"I’m told there’s a real possibility he returns to play with the Buccaneers in 2026. If the right deal is struck, though, consider the Tennessee Titans and Las Vegas Raiders game as well," Pauline reported.
The Titans and Raiders both have bad wide receivers rooms, and Las Vegas' is even worse. Adding to that, both teams will have a young quarterback under center in 2026, which makes their situations even more dire.
While Evans would be a perfect addition for Cam Ward or Fernando Mendoza, we would say it's highly unlikely he'll land in Tennessee or Las Vegas.
That's because, per ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, Evans has specific demands for his next home, and among those demands is a chance to win a Super Bowl, something neither the Titans nor the Raiders are even remotely close to doing.
"Mike Evans will limit his choices to a handful of teams in part because of his criteria," Fowler said. "He wants a quarterback he believes in, a chance at a Super Bowl, a top-shelf offensive coordinator and the promise of high-volume touches."
While the Titans and Raiders are No. 2 and No. 3 in cap space and can offer Evans just about anything he wants, clearly money isn't the only thing Evans is looking for.
As a result, we'd say he has a better chance of returning to Tampa Bay than signing with the Titans or Raiders.
Photo by Noushad Thekkayil/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Comparisons between Carlos Alcaraz and the Big Three are already a regular talking point, and he’s barely into his 20s.
But the consistency he’s shown so early in his career is remarkable, and there’s every reason to think that in another 10 years, we might be talking about him as someone who has left even this legendary trio behind.
He also has more Grand Slam titles than any of the Big Three had at this stage of their careers. And with only Jannik Sinner looking like a consistent challenger, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Alcaraz continue racking up major titles year after year.
“He comes from behind in matches so much,” Eubanks said. “I know that Roger had plenty of comebacks. You can look through and kind of look at specific times when he’s done it, but if you ask me just what my gut feeling is if one player who falls behind, who do I trust to come back more?
“I think I would have to say Carlos. The number of times we’ve seen him not play his best or play okay or play below his standard for a set, two sets, and then somehow still find a way to turn it around.”
Chris Eubanks draws comparisons between Carlos Alcaraz and Roger Federer
Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images
He began by speaking highly of Alcaraz’s mentality, saying: “Listening to him talk, it just reframes the perspective because being a player on tour, I know how stressful things could be. I’m sure they’re ten times more stressful for Carlos Alcaraz, but when he’s out there competing, win or lose, he has a smile on his face.
“We saw it in Australia. We’ve seen it throughout his entire career. He genuinely enjoys competing. He enjoys getting out there, going to battle, leaving it on the court, and whatever the result is going to be, he seems to be fine with it, and that is a crazy perspective for such a young player to have.
“Winning a lot certainly helps your perspective for sure but I think he’s just wired a little bit differently. He’s able to take the good with the bad; he’s able to take changes from his technique to his team and just carries it on in stride. I’m like ‘Man I wish I had this guy’s mentality.’”
That led Genie Bouchard to agree with Eubanks’ point: “Yeah and my favourite part of his answer that we saw earlier was in the middle of talking about the fans and this and that. He just throws in ‘I love playing tennis’ and you just see that like he genuinely enjoys it.
“And you know like Chris said again envious of his mentality. I wish I had more of that back in the day.”
Carlos Alcaraz shares thoughts on whether he’d beat Roger Federer at his peak
It’s hardly a shock that Alcaraz finds himself regularly compared to the Big Three, considering how much he’s achieved so early in his career.
Federer, in particular, stands out as the most obvious comparison, given the similar elegance and feel both players bring to the court.
Last year, Alcaraz was asked how he might have fared against Federer during the Swiss star’s prime years at Wimbledon.
He didn’t hesitate with his response: “These are different eras, but I’d say Federer.”
This is the day for the Toronto Maple Leafs to shape the future of their franchise.
The NHL trade deadline is at 3 p.m. ET on Friday, March 6. The Leafs are clear sellers after losing their first six games after the Olympic break. And they've still got a ton of trade candidates, including the likes of Bobby McMann, Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Scott Laughton.
They already swung one trade on Thursday to deal away Nicolas Roy, but that will likely be just the beginning.
11:50 a.m. ET: With just more than three hours until the deadline, the Maple Leafs have yet to make a trade on Friday.
11:15 a.m. ET: The NHL world is still coming to grips with the fact that Capitals legend John Carlson was traded to the Ducks, with Alex Ovechkin calling it the saddest day of his career. It impacts the Leafs a bit, because Anaheim won't have a need for Oliver Ekman-Larsson.
10:55 a.m. ET: TSN's Darren Dreger adds to the Bobby McMann reports saying the Leafs want the picks they'll get in a deal and could revisit a contract if he reaches free agency this summer.
10:35 a.m. ET: David Pagnotta reports that the Maple Leafs are "expected" to trade Bobby McMann today.
10:30 a.m. ET: One bit of good news for the Maple Leafs is the players they're trying to trade don't have prohibitive no-move clauses. Those have stifled action elsewhere in the league this week.
9:45 a.m. ET: The Maple Leafs come into trade deadline Friday absolutely reeling. They lost 6-2 on Thursday night, their sixth loss in a row. Head coach Craig Berube described the mood after the game as "pissed off." Toronto doesn't play on Friday, so its day will be spent focused on trades.
9:40 a.m. ET: It's worth noting that even Matthew Knies might be on the table. TSN's Elliotte Friedman reported overnight that a huge offer could land Knies.
The Maple Leafs got another one in before the buzzer, sending Scott Laughton to the Los Angeles Kings for a third-round pick.
The Maple Leafs traded Bobby McMann to the Seattle Kraken right at the buzzer for a 2027 second-rounder and a 2026 fourth-rounder, according to Pierre LeBrun.
On Thursday, the Maple Leafs traded Nicolas Roy to the Colorado Avalanche. In return, they got a 2027 first-round pick and a 2026 fifth-round pick.
The narrative pitting Jayson Tatum against Jaylen Brown refuses to die, even after the Boston Celtics' championship success in 2024, NBA Finals appearance in 2022, and five Eastern Conference Finals appearances.
CBS Sports analyst Ashley Nicole Moss addressed the ongoing Tatum-Brown narrative during a recent TV appearance, questioning why it's still a topic. Moss made a particular criticism of Carmelo Anthony's recent take that Tatum will have to exercise maturity in deferring to Brown this season.
"What I don't understand is why we are in 2026 and still pitting these guys against each other ... I thought these convos would've ended after the banner was hung."
on Jayson Tatum's return:
"what i don't understand is why we are in 2026 and still pitting these guys against each other (...) i thought these convos would've ended after the banner was hung (...) Tatum doesn't have to be mature because he's never been immature."@CBSSportspic.twitter.com/apHxF9dJUV
Moss makes excellent points. Tatum and Brown have proven time and time again that they win at the highest level, with a championship ring to show for it. What other evidence is required?
Tatum's Achilles recovery has only amplified the noise, but his leadership off the floor this season has only served as a reminder of his team-first mentality.
As Tatum prepares for his debut Friday against the Mavericks, the focus should shift to the team's collective strength.
The last time Tatum was on an NBA floor, he was carving up the New York Knicks' defense in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Before that, he'd put together another outstanding regular season, averaging 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game across 72 starts.
Leeds United boss Daniel Farke has been speaking to the media before Sunday's FA Cup fifth round game against Noriwch City at Elland Road (16:30 GMT).
Here are the key lines from his news conference:
Farke confirmed striker Noah Okafor is "not in team training yet and will not be available for this game" while he said "all the others seem all right and if nothing happens over the next few days, I should have a full squad available".
Farke was asked about receiving a one-match suspension following his red card after full-time in last weekend's defeat by Manchester City: "I think the message I will take is that I will never jog on the pitch again because I was accused of entering the pitch and confronting the referee. I did my jogging and I won't again because I probably look a bit scary when I jog. I still think it wasn't the right decision to show me a red card because, even if I jogged, it isn't right to be given a red card anyway."
More on the red card and decision not to appeal it: "There was not one bad word, no accusation or no bad language or whatever. I think the red card shouldn't stand, however I haven't appealed the one-match ban for one simple reason: because if I appeal and the panel comes together for two weeks, we speak again about this topic and then the decision is made. I don't think it makes sense to talk more about this topic and that's why I've simply accepted the ban."
Farke was asked about switching attention from the Premier League relegation battle to the FA Cup: "We have at least a chance to go into the quarter-finals, which has been a while for this club. Then if you win that, you're just one game away. We know it is the cup with the most tradition in Europe and it is very special."
However, he was frank about where Leeds' primary focus is: "Of course, survival in the Premier League is always the priority. For a newly promoted side, it has to be this way. But if you have the chance to progress you want to, so long as it's without risking any players or doing anything stupid."
On facing his former side: "Norwich gave me my first opportunity in the UK, this club will always have a special place in my heart. But my focus is with my team, my club, my supporters. It is a disappointment I cannot be on the bench but I have confidence in my staff they can be successful. Big compliment to what Norwich have done in recent weeks, I was hoping they would do better when they were suffering. Right now they are in a situation where they can concentrate on the FA Cup and play their strongest line-up."
Detroit City FC revealed its 2026 season uniforms Thursday night during a lively event full of street soccer, a taco truck and three local DJs providing the groove for a dance party at Big Pink.
DJs Hi-Def Stef, JMT and Sheefy McFly worked the crowds from 7 p.m. to midnight as hundreds of enthusiasts of all ages socialized, ate, danced, played and snapped photobooth memories throughout the night. Kids channeled their energy onto the street soccer pitch before the event turned over to 21 and up after 9 p.m. Parents from all over brought their kids to witness the reveal before they were made public.
David McElhaney brought his young son, who plays for DCFC's travel team, to not only see the new kits but to play with other kids.
"He really wanted to be close to the men’s first team and be able to be as in that experience as possible," McElhaney said. "There’s a lot of travel teams around, but this one is unique in that it has its own special place for the kids to practice, that’s where the men and women practice. They have more access to the players, so that’s why he chose here over other places."
Players from both the men's and women's teams who showed off their new swag on stage, in front of a multi-television display, included: Carlos Saldaña, Devon Amoo-Mensah, Michael Bryant, Karina Medina, Erin Torrence, Allison LaPoint and Kayla Addison. Stephen Carroll, who retired after last season as the men's longest-tenured captain, also made an appearance to support the club.
This season's kits draw inspiration from Detroit's techno and electronic music scenes — hence the DJs and dance party — and the Detroit Red Wings. The dark kits, DCFC's home uniforms, maintain the club's traditional La Rouge theme with a touch of gold. The uniforms showcase a splash of a maroon and bright red tonal wave pattern, gold numbers and white logos of the Spirit of Detroit, club partners and its key sponsor AlumniFi. The home kits are paired with maroon shorts and socks.
The light kit nearly mimics a flipped design of last year's home jersey, exhibiting a taupe body, maroon sleeves and salmon-colored stripes along the edges, paired with maroon or taupe shorts and taupe or salmon socks.
Goalkeepers will debut two options: bright red uniforms with thick white stripes on the sleeves, along with white crests, numbers and logos. The red uniform is a tribute to the Detroit Red Wings, utilizing the same font as the hockey team's logo to display the "Detroit City Football Club" name on the chest. The tribute serves as a continuation from last year's design, which highlighted the Detroit Pistons' retro teal and a light blue and gray to honor the Detroit Lions. Goalkeepers will also don a solar yellow-green uniform with deep blue-violet stripes and accents.
DCFC made it through the 2025 USL Championship playoffs before getting knocked out in the Eastern Conference semifinal against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds in a penalty shootout. Though Saldaña, 29, said he is excited about the new season and has high hopes for his squad, especially as the club recently signed on several new players.
"I think they did a really good job bringing in the right guys. We’re gelling really well. We have really, really bonded over the preseason and honestly, the team chemistry is growing. I’m really excited to see what the guys are gonna bring, not only quality-wise because they are very good players, but effort-wise," Saldaña said.
"Detroit has a different culture, that grit that we need to show, it kind of builds in you and you adapt it. And I’m excited to see what the guys are gonna do."
DCFC has built a community since its founding, from an intensely passionate fanbase to local organizers drawing the community onto the pitch. The club's kits have historically been revealed through a day-long affair. But this year, co-owner and Chief Creative Officer Alex Wright wanted to change it up and celebrate with a party, similar to how DCFC's recreational league throws post-game celebrations at different neighborhood bars.
"When we started this club over a decade ago, we were the kind of folks who were going to places like this, and going to shows and understanding what was going on, and what was important," Wright said. "As leaders of this organization, we realized if we’re gonna grow, we have to allow the culture to change.
"We want it to be a creative culture. We want it to be an inclusive culture. But we can no longer be the ones who are constantly dictating what works for this club. One of the most exciting things we’ve done is we put events like this in the hands of our staff."
One of their ideas included a street soccer activation in the hangar at Big Pink, curated by Maxwell Murray.
Murray, 26, founded Urban Football League, which he describes as a "community of people who come together over their love or interest in the beautiful game of football or soccer."
The Detroit native started the organization in 2021 while living in Chicago attending school, where he focused on African and Black diaspora studies. Though it all came together from a combination of life experiences of playing soccer and traveling the world, he said.
"On one hand, it’s just community. It’s the most popular game in the world. It’s almost a way to say hello to someone if you speak the language of football with your feet," said Murray.
Murray, who also works as a youth and community programs manager for DCFC, displayed some of his favorite books and soccer merchandise around his makeshift street soccer field. In chalk, he wrote inspirational messages, including: "Football is knowledge" and "Knowledge is Power" to "utilize the sport as a tool for education, community building and self-actualization and communal mobilization."
Murray runs a weekly pick-up soccer series on Sundays in partnership with Social Status, a local clothing store, in an effort to provide access to the game to the community. He brings fruits and vegetables for the community, and donates any remaining food to a community fridge on Kercheval Avenue and Grand Boulevard.
The team kicks off their first match of the regular season against Brooklyn FC on Saturday, March 14 at Keyworth Stadium in Hamtramck. This season is expected to be DCFC's last at Keyworth while the club builds its new AlumniFi Field at the site of the long-abandoned Southwest Detroit Hospital.
Dana Afana is the Detroit city hall reporter for the Free Press. Contact: dafana@freepress.com. Follow her: @DanaAfana.
KC Concepcion accepted the Paul Hornung Award, given to the most versatile college football player in the nation, on Thursday night after a remarkable 2025 season.
The Texas A&M Aggies’ standout junior transfer wideout from North Carolina State was instantly identified by former offensive coordinator Collin Klein as a player who needed the ball as often as possible. Concepcion wasted no time making his case for the Hornung Award, hauling in two touchdowns on his Texas A&M debut: one through the air and one on a punt return. He became the first Aggie to contribute both a receiving and punt return touchdown since Christian Kirk in 2017.
Concepcion was one of the most dynamic players in college football with the ball in his hand last season. When the Aggie offense faltered after losing Le'Veon Moss to injury, Concepcion’s all-around impact became even more critical. He stepped up in Texas A&M’s matchup against South Carolina, delivering a career-high 158 receiving yards on 7 receptions and returning 2 punts for 42 yards.
He ended his junior season with a thoroughly impressive 61 catches for 919 receiving yards and an SEC-leading nine receiving touchdowns, 10 rushes for 75 yards and a touchdown, and 25 punt returns for 456 yards and two touchdowns.
Concepcion won first-team All-SEC honors at wide receiver, punt returner, and all-purpose offensive player. This is a textbook example of the type of resume that gets you selected for the Hornung Award. Concepcion joins elite company, with prior award winners including Saquon Barkley, Christian McCaffrey, Travis Hunter (twice), Odell Beckham Jr., Devonta Smith, Tayvon Austin, and Shaq Thompson.
Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Sam on X:@Smallred25
The NHL trade deadline day has arrived, and the Detroit Red Wings need to make some moves. On Thursday night, Detroit acquired forward David Perron from the Ottawa Senators. While Perron will help the bottom six, the Red Wings need more, and a 2026 Olympic gold medalist would be an outstanding fit
Detroit has been heavily linked to New York Rangers center Vincent Trocheck for several weeks. Trocheck, who is a part of a struggling Rangers team, has a high asking price, but he would be worth the investment. The Red Wings players and coaches have earned the right for general manager Steve Yzerman to supplement their run to the Stanley Cup playoffs.
The 32-year-old center has 12 goals and 39 points in 46 games during the 2025-26 NHL season. Trocheck has three years left on his contract and still has enough juice to play at a high level. Obviously, if Trocheck wasn’t a great hockey player, he wouldn’t have been on the Team USA gold-winning hockey team.
The Red Wings should be willing to give up one of its prized prospects to get a deal done for Trocheck. The organization also has its first-round pick to use in trade talks. However, New York doesn’t feel the need to trade Trocheck on Friday. With the 32-year-old center under contract through the 2029 NHL season, there isn’t a need to recoup assets yet.
Trocheck has been one of the players, alongside Robert Thomas and Elias Pettersson, that Detroit has been heavily linked to for weeks now. The Red Wings sit third in the Atlantic Division heading into the 2026 NHL trade deadline, and Trocheck would be a very popular addition for Dylan Larkin, Lucas Raymond, and company.
BARCELONA, SPAIN - MARCH 03: Diego Simeone, head coach of Atletico de Madrid, looks on during the Spanish Cup, Copa del Rey, football match Semifinal Second Leg played between FC Barcelona and Atletico de Madrid at Spotify Camp Nou stadium on March 03, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo By Irina R. Hipolito/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images
When asked if he had any concerns heading into an intense period, El Cholo replied that his team “is used to competing and playing games back-to-back, and I have no doubt that tomorrow there will be an incredible atmosphere in the stadium as our fans are very happy that the team has reached the final, they’re happy because the team is fighting it out in the Champions League.
“Obviously, we need to keep improving in La Liga,” Simeone said. “So I hope that tomorrow we can have a good atmosphere and that we can respond in the best possible way.”
Simeone on Dávid Hancko’s first year
“He’s arrived as we imagined he would. We had already thought about him last season, but he wasn’t able to join us. He’s arrived, he’s been humble, he’s had time and patience to work, whether at left back when we’ve played him there or at center back. He’s started to compete very well with his teammates and is giving the team some very important things. We need him to be like this, he’s a guy who takes great responsibility for what he does, he’s incredibly humble and good things are happening for him.”
Simeone on the importance of Josema Giménez in the final stretch
“I’ve been saying for quite some time that we need everyone, that as the end of the season approaches and we obviously have the luck and the opportunity to compete as we are doing, the importance of everyone in the squad is even greater. I’m not going to change that thinking and the importance that everyone has from here to the end.”
Simeone on Julio Díaz
“There’s no need to rush, he made a good debut, he’s a guy who is very enthusiastic, eager to grow and very humble in his work. And obviously with good things like he did the other day in the game against Oviedo. Let’s hope he continues to help us, and if not, he’ll play with the B team so he doesn’t lose his rhythm, which is good for all of us.”
Simeone on Pablo Barrios’ injury status
“According to the doctors, he may be available by Tuesday and will train with the group on Sunday. Let’s hope that what I’m saying is true and that he’ll be back with us soon.”
🔴⚪️ Último entrenamiento del Atlético de Madrid antes de recibir a la Real Sociedad:
“I respect all opinions. We are continuing on our path, toward our goal. Nothing will distract us.”
Simeone on expectations ahead of Real Sociedad
“I don’t think we’ll change our approach too much. It’s true that the two teams are in different situations, or similar ones, due to the effort we put in in the semifinals. I understand that the final will be different because it’s a final, and we’ll compete as best we can against a team that has been doing very well since their coach arrived. I think they’ve only lost one game, if I’m not mistaken, against Madrid after playing Bilbao in the first semifinal, who also rotated quite a few players. So I imagine a competitive team with a lot of young players who are doing very well, and the truth is that since the coach arrived, the team has changed enormously.”
Simeone on the feeling after qualifying for the Copa del Rey final
“Great joy, knowing that it’s a step on the way to our goal, and I experienced it with that, with joy, and as an important step towards our goal.”
Simeone on whether he has complaints about lack of rest between games
There are 20 games remaining for the Philadelphia 76ers as they sit at 34-28 on the season. There are some tough matchups coming up as they face the Atlanta Hawks and Cleveland Cavaliers on the road over the weekend--two teams the Sixers are a combined 0-6 against on the season--but Philadelphia will have to find a way to come up with some wins on the road.
The Miami Heat and the Orlando Magic both defeated the Brooklyn Nets and the Dallas Mavericks, respectively, and are nipping at Philadelphia's heels for the No. 6 seed in the East which represents the final guaranteed playoff spot. With the Sixers idle, the lead dwindled in that moment.
With that being said, here is a look at the Eastern Conference playoff standings:
Nico Schlotterbeck (Borussia Dortmund) controls the ball during Matchday 24 1.Bundesliga: Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich at Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund, Germany on February 28 2026. (Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images
Welcome to BVB purgatory folks. Any hope for trophies is over and Champions League qualification is essentially guaranteed, so there’s essentially nothing to do except talk about what might happen this summer and next season. I encourage you all to read Paddy’s article on the next steps BVB should take.
The biggest story right now is whether Nico Schlotterbeck will stay or whether he will go. The good-ish news is that it doesn’t seem like this situation will drag out all summer. According to Bild, Schlotterbeck doesn’t have many options if he wishes for a transfer away from Dortmund. The two options are basically Bayern Munich, who just extended Dayot Upamecano anyway, and Barcelona, who also don’t seem to have a pressing need.
According to the linked article, BVB are pursuing Schlotterbeck hard, and are willing to make major concessions, including a lucrative €14 million annual salary, and up to and including a release clause. A decision could be made as soon as this week.
The Bucs special teams struggled heavily in 2025. To fix things, they brought in veteran coordinator Danny Smith from the Pittsburgh Steelers, and now they are giving him someone familiar as a returning piece.
This week, the Bucs exercised the option of Riley Dixon's second year in his contract to bring him back for the 2026 season. He signed a two-year, $6 million deal last offseason, and while he struggled to start the year, he found his footing towards the end, which seems to have left a good memory on the minds of the Bucs.
Dixon started the year out rough, having two critical punts blocked, which led to two early losses in the season. However, he rebounded and finished the year with a punt average of 44.7 yards on 63 punts, with a 38.9-yard net average. Both numbers were good, not great, but the arrival of Danny Smith to help special teams could improve those.
With Dixon's return, this also means the Bucs will have back both specialists for the 2026 season, as kicker Chase McLaughlin will be back after several solid years for the team.
Jesse Lingard has joined Corinthians as a free agent after leaving FC Seoul [Getty Images]
It's a tradition that, with a few breaks over the years, has endured since the 1960s.
Every time Corinthians unveil a big signing, a siren sounds at their social club headquarters, Parque Sao Jorge.
It was like this with Socrates, Rivaldo, Carlos Tevez, Ronaldo 'Phenomenon' and, more recently, Memphis Depay.
The siren will be heard once again in eastern Sao Paulo as Corinthians introduce Jesse Lingard as their new signing. The former Manchester United midfielder arrives as a free agent after leaving South Korean club FC Seoul in December.
He has signed a contract until the end of the year, with the possibility it could be extended until the end of 2027 if certain goals are met.
Lingard had offers from other clubs, but, after a quick call to his former United team-mate Depay, he was in no doubt about his decision and had a flight booked even before a verbal agreement was in place.
A unique experience now awaits Lingard across the Atlantic.
Not only because the 33-year-old is set to become the first English footballer to feature in the Brazilian top flight.
But also because Corinthians themselves are a unique force in the domestic context, too.
"Every team has supporters. Corinthians are supporters who have a team," journalist Jose Roberto de Aquino famously put it.
And they refer to themselves in a very particular way: "bando de loucos" – a bunch of crazies – a label the club has proudly embraced.
"Welcome to the madhouse," reads a sign in the tunnel leading visiting sides to the pitch at the Neo Quimica Arena.
Corinthians fans are widely known as the most loyal in the country. For better and for worse, as Lingard will soon find out first-hand.
When the black and white team beat Chelsea 1-0 in the 2012 Intercontinental Cup final, 40,000 supporters travelled to Japan. They have also raised around £6m through a crowdfunding campaign to help the club pay for their stadium and saw their following grow even when the team went 23 years without a trophy.
That run came to an end in 1977 with a Sao Paulo State Championship title.
It was not a coincidence that Lingard was handed the number 77. It carries weight and he will know that from day one.
'It's a strange kind of signing'
Having left United in 2022 following 232 appearances for the club over an eight-year period, the ex-England international has an immediate challenge ahead of him: win over the Brazilian press.
It's safe to say the reactions to his signing have not been exactly warm.
"I believe there are better players here in Brazil or even abroad. There are players who will cost less and work out the same," argued former international defender Luisao, who faced Lingard with Benfica in a Champions League game in 2017.
Ilsinho, who won a Uefa Cup with Shakhtar Donetsk, added: "If he walks around Analia Franco (a popular neighbourhood in Sao Paulo's eastern zone), nobody would ask him for a photo."
Mauro Cezar Pereira, one of the most respected local pundits, said: "He's been away from the most competitive level for a long time. I don't know how much he'll really add to Corinthians. It's a strange kind of signing."
Lingard can be certain fans will be behind him as he faces all the initial scrutiny.
However, as other big names have come to realise, he should not expect unconditional love.
As the club with the second biggest fanbase in Brazil, behind only Flamengo, whatever happens at Corinthians lands loudly.
The supporters demand total commitment. Otherwise, things can get a bit too wild, to say the least.
Fan protests in the past have led to the exits of superstars such as Roberto Carlos, Tevez and Javier Mascherano, and even contributed to Ronaldo's retirement.
"This was one of the reasons Ronaldo left Corinthians. Ronaldo was just waiting for me to make my decision so he could make his too. We didn't need to go through that," Carlos revealed afterwards.
Can Lingard make the expected impact?
Flamengo and Palmeiras currently dominate South American and Brazilian football, but if there is one local team with potential to force its way into that conversation, it's Corinthians.
No-one in their right mind would disagree.
"In terms of impact and stature, Corinthians can be compared to Barcelona and Manchester United. In terms of supporters, there's no comparison," Depay said in a recent interview with Brazilian legend Romario.
Turning that into results has been the main issue for the seven-time winners of the Brazilian league.
They will be hoping Lingard can help them with that on the pitch.
Such was the political situation in 2025 that supporters stormed into the club's headquarters and locked the gates, declaring it "closed due to mismanagement".
Last year was quite the year for Corinthians.
The club removed its president but then he tried a "coup" to return to office and was later charged by the Public Prosecutor's Office with money laundering, criminal association and aggravated theft.
Meanwhile, the team's debt reached £400m, resulting, among other things, in a transfer ban from Fifa.
Despite all that, as impressive as it may seem, Corinthians still managed to finish the season by lifting the Brazilian Cup.
Under former Brazil head coach Dorival Junior, young players such as midfielders Breno Bidon and Andre and striker Yuri Alberto have shined, while Depay established himself as a key leader.
Depay had asked for the club to bring in players with international experience for their Libertadores Cup campaign, and Lingard ticks that box.
The Warrington-born footballer will be looking to avoid the same level of exposure that left the Dutch forward furious as his contract was leaked to the press.
It revealed a package that included: a house in a gated community; an apartment for his assistant; armed private security; two armoured cars, each with a dedicated driver; 24 business-class flights between Brazil and Europe; a private chef; and a skybox at the Neo Quimica Arena.
Corinthians stress Lingard's deal won't include the same privileges.
The "madhouse" awaits the newest member of its "bunch of crazies".
The PGA Tour wants something it cannot ask for, something that benefits no one but itself, from people who have every reason to say nothing at all.
That is the quagmire Brian Rolapp's predecessors overseeing the tour could never solve. For decades, the tour's overtures on calling the Players Championship the fifth major backfired in the most predictable way possible, because the moment you have to explain why you matter is the moment you've already lost the argument. The volume came down during the Jay Monahan era, and perhaps unsurprisingly, that quiet correlated with genuine growth. Freed from its own anxiety, the Players found something more valuable than a major-in-waiting: It became the best non-major in the world, earning its footing not by chasing a designation it couldn't have, but by being an event nobody could dismiss.
Then last month, a promotional video surfaced with the tagline "March Is Going to Be Major." Tournament director Lee Smith confirmed what everyone already suspected. "This is a signal of the confidence, momentum and offense that is coming out of our building these days," Smith said at last month’s Players Championship media preview. "We wanted to start a conversation."
Why, after a decade of calculated restraint, is the tour comfortable letting the "m-word" breathe? Instead of asking for a seat at a table without an empty chair, it's bringing its own. The only way to become a major is to act like you already are one.
• • •
To call this a full-throated campaign by the PGA Tour, at least right now, would be overstating things. Rolapp, his tenure in Ponte Vedra Beach still measured in months, understands the optics. After spending two decades working at the NFL, he's earning positive reviews from most corners of the professional game, but he's also the new man with no background in the sport. Showing up in Year 1 to declare the Players a major would come off as exactly what his critics already fear: a non-golf guy who doesn't know what he doesn't know. Besides, the new schedule is his chief priority, a restructuring with the potential to upset a significant portion of tour constituents. Threading that needle is Job No. 1. The major conversation is, for now, a whisper, and the Players as currently constructed is not a major championship. The people inside the tour are the first to say so.
Start with who isn't in the field next week for the 52nd playing of the event. The Masters, U.S. Open, PGA Championship and Open Championship emerged from the professional golf’s civil war with something unexpected: authority. As the best players in the game continue to play on separate circuits, the four majors remained open to anyone who could qualify, regardless of which league signed their checks, and that universality became inseparable from their legitimacy. The Players, meanwhile, is a tour event, which means LIV headliners Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton aren’t in it. Calling that a major is a fight the tour cannot win in public, and privately, it knows it. Which is why a future where LIV players can earn their way into the Players field is not off the table, according to one tour source. It may, in fact, be the price of admission to the conversation.
But solve that and geography is waiting. Three of the four majors are already American, a ratio that already seems unbalanced for a sport that has spent the last decade insisting on its global character (and particularly tough when considering tennis’ four majors are across four countries on three continents). A fifth golf major, anchored permanently to a tour-owned Florida venue, would hand critics in Europe and Asia—especially those who would argue the Australian Open deserves major consideration—an argument requiring no elaboration. The tour isn't moving the Players from Sawgrass—nor should it, because the course is the event's identity and its financial engine. But that means the one thing that makes the Players the Players is also the thing that makes it hardest to call it a major anywhere east of the Atlantic. There is no resolution here; only the hope that, eventually, everyone would buy in.
Beneath all of it sits Augusta National. Not as an obstacle exactly, but as a gravitational force the tour has no interest in disturbing. The unspoken compact is that the Masters is the sport's new year, the event that tells the casual fan the season has truly begun. A March Players doesn't directly threaten that. But a March major might. Which is why some inside the tour believe the Players would eventually need to move back to May, requiring the PGA of America to shift the PGA Championship to August, a calendar surgery that seemed unthinkable until you remember it was only 2019 when the PGA moved in the first place. If there is ever a moment to restructure, a full schedule overhaul is it. But it requires coordination between organizations that are not, at the moment, coordinating especially well.
And then there's tradition. It’s the oldest objection, and in some ways the weakest; the number four has felt permanent, but it was invented. The Western Open and the Canadian Open were once considered majors. The amateur championships counted until a research committee led by then-tour commissioner Deane Beman quietly decided in the late 1980s that only professional tournaments should apply, which is why Jack Nicklaus has 18 majors instead of 20.
More to the point, the modern four-major construct was essentially lobbied into existence. Augusta National used Grantland Rice, its charter member and the most influential sportswriter of his era, to build the Masters' early prestige. In the 1960s, sportswriter Bob Drum effectively invented the modern Grand Slam in conversation with Arnold Palmer—a framework that was sold as historical symmetry with Bobby Jones' 1930 season, but functioned mainly to cement Palmer's legacy. Majors, in other words, have always been partly a matter of who controls the narrative.
The difference now is that no single personality or entity commands that kind of authority. The fans give professional golf its meaning, but they don't have knighting power either. For the Players to become a major, the bodies that run the existing four would have to consent, and as previously noted, the relationship between the tour and those bodies, while not broken, is unsettled. They rallied behind the tour during the LIV conflict, then were blindsided by the secret framework agreement with Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. The distance rollback debate has fractured the coalition further: the USGA, R&A and Augusta National support it; the PGA of America opposes it; the tour, wary of alienating its players, equipment manufacturers and a LIV operation that would happily market itself as the non-conforming alternative, has tried to stay out of it. Things are not harmonious. And it is into that specific climate that Rolapp is now trying to introduce the most self-serving request the tour has ever made of its partners.
James Gilbert
This is where Rolapp's standing becomes important, and why the whispers have been revived. The leaders of golf's other governing bodies regard him well, according to multiple sources at each organization. But a quiet skepticism lingers. There is a belief, real or perceived, that Rolapp, 53, may be using this job as an audition for NFL commissioner once Roger Goodell retires. The implicit question, posed by more than one source, is pointed: Why should they do the tour a favor for an individual who may not be invested in the sport long-term?
The question, however, assumes Rolapp needs their goodwill more than they need his.
Those underestimating Rolapp because of his inexperience with golf could be in for a rude awakening. He was the NFL's apprentice, and the NFL does not produce diplomats; it creates people who understand leverage. Rolapp has already shown with LIV that the tour’s old defensive posture isn't going to cut it anymore, and that applies to the Players push. Set aside the "independent contractors" framing of tour membership for a moment and consider the simpler reality: Rolapp leads the organization that the major championships need to stage their events. The players who make those tournaments worth watching play tour golf 30 weeks a year. That is not a small thing to hold.
• • •
A nuclear options exist for Rolapp. A biennial PGA Tour versus DP World Tour match-play event, pitting America against Europe, would cut directly into the Ryder Cup's oxygen. Players could, in theory, be steered away from the Ryder Cup entirely, and after the event’s black eye from Bethpage, the PGA of America isn’t in the best position to counter. It was just seven years ago that players, fed up by a series of gaffes from the USGA, openly wondered if the tour should host a national open instead. And though the USGA has Augusta National in its corner on the rollback, what it doesn't have is the tour's relationship with the people who actually watch the sport—and governing bodies that lose that relationship tend to find their authority goes with it. Nobody is pulling those triggers, or even suggesting they should. But Rolapp knows they're loaded, and the other bodies know he knows. That is a different kind of conversation than the one the tour has been having for 50 years.
But perhaps the most underrated reason the push is happening now is the cover of everything else. There is a theory in business—the "big bang"—that radical changes are most effective when they arrive together, creating a new status quo before resistance has time to organize. The PGA Tour has learned this lesson the hard way. Five years of incremental adjustments have produced five years of rank-and-file pushback, each change relitigated in isolation. But if you are already overhauling the schedule, restructuring the competitive hierarchy and reopening the door to LIV players, then folding major status for the Players into that same moment is not addition. It's camouflage. The ask doesn't disappear. It just becomes harder to single out. New leaders, historically, have a narrow window when momentum is on their side and inertia hasn't yet calcified against them. Rolapp sees that window. The question is whether he has the patience to use it correctly, and the nerve to use it all at before it closes.
Which is why the soft push begins now. The Players getting major status will not happen in a single announcement or a single season. It will happen gradually, through the work of getting the right people to say the right things. About the Players’ strength of field, about the identity of the course, about not letting the past dictate the future, about what it means to the players who compete for the title. Recently, Russell Henley said publicly that he believes the Players is a major. That is not an accident. That is how the conversation starts.
Rolapp has decided the stategy is to not keep asking, because the answer has always been No. Instead, it’s to make the outcome feel inevitable—to build the case so quietly, so patiently, that by the time the governing bodies are asked to render a verdict, the jury has already decided. The tour doesn't need to proclaim the Players a major. It just has to let everyone else catch up with what it already believes.
It's a bold move for a Buffalo offense that has been searching for another reliable weapon to pair with franchise quarterback Josh Allen. Moore's arrival instantly upgrades the Bills' passing attack, but the trade also offered an unexpected opportunity for another conversation. This one centers on the Philadelphia Eagles and their star receiver, A.J. Brown.
The Bills trading for WR D.J. Moore would theoretically take them out of the A.J. Brown market. They checked in with the #Eagles about their wide receiver, from what I understand.
Patriots and Ravens are the most likely potential partners, especially as I understand it, the… https://t.co/xBI7Pn4ViW
From this, interesting details are added to the Brown conversation. It seems the Eagles aren't totally opposed to moving Brown. They aren't going to give him away either. The price tag demonstrates that they aren't eager for a divorce.
This also suggests Moore may not have been Buffalo's first choice. If that's true, the Eagles' steep asking price likely played a major role in steering the Bills toward a different path.
Still, a deal is far from guaranteed. Baltimore's general manager, Eric DeCosta, has built a reputation for valuing draft capital more than most front offices, which could complicate negotiations if Philadelphia refuses to budge on its demands.
At the end of the day, the Moore trade may have clarified one thing. Elite wide receivers remain expensive commodities. If Moore commands a second-round pick, it only strengthens the argument that Brown, a more dominant and consistent playmaker, is worth significantly more.
Whether any team ultimately decides to pay that price remains the biggest question of Philadelphia's offseason. Truth be told, if we were taking wagers, it seems many would bet the farm on Brown again being an Eagle next season.
New Jets offensive coordinator Frank Reich may want to bring in one of his old quarterbacks to run his offense again: Carson Wentz.
Wentz is Reich’s preferred option because of the relationship they built during the time they've previously spent together, according to Connor Hughes of SNY.
Reich was the Eagles' offensive coordinator during Wentz's first two NFL seasons, and while playing in Reich's offense in 2017, Wentz was an MVP candidate before suffering a season-ending knee injury. Then when Reich was head coach of the Colts, Wentz played for one season in Indianapolis in 2021 and played well for most of the season, although Wentz's tenure with the Colts is remembered mostly for his disastrous final game, in which a season-ending upset loss knocked the Colts out of playoff contention.
Wentz started five games for the Vikings last season, completing 65.1 percent of his passes with six touchdowns and five interceptions. He becomes a free agent next week.
The Jets are expected to add multiple quarterbacks this offseason, and Wentz would have to compete for playing time, but no one should be surprised if he's playing in Reich's offense again, with a third team.
Report: Liverpool want to sign £87m-rated star this summer
Liverpool eye Diomande as Salah successor amid summer uncertainty
Liverpool have never been a club to panic in the transfer market. Yet even the most measured institutions recognise the moment when change is coming. At Anfield, that moment appears to be approaching rapidly. Mohamed Salah, the man who has defined Liverpool’s attack for nearly a decade, may be entering the final chapter of his time on Merseyside. And as one era threatens to fade, another name is emerging in the conversation: Diomande.
According to reports from TEAMtalk, Liverpool have already begun exploring the possibility of bringing the RB Leipzig winger to the Premier League, with discussions around the player taking place as the club weighs up its long-term options on the right flank. The Egyptian forward’s future is the catalyst for these conversations, and Liverpool know that replacing a figure of Salah’s stature is no ordinary recruitment task.
Salah’s influence at Liverpool has been profound. Since arriving in 2017, he has delivered goals with relentless regularity and rewritten expectations for what a wide forward can achieve in English football. Even now, amid suggestions of declining form, he continues to find decisive moments. His recent strike against Wolves marked his 253rd goal for Liverpool, a remarkable return that underscores the scale of the void he will eventually leave behind.
Photo: IMAGO
Liverpool planning next attacking chapter
Liverpool’s hierarchy have rarely been accused of standing still. Recruitment under Fenway Sports Group has typically been methodical, analytical and patient. The pursuit of Diomande appears to follow a similar pattern.
Sources cited by TEAMtalk suggest the 19-year-old has become Liverpool’s number one target if Salah departs. As reported in the original source, a “trusted and well-informed source has revealed Liverpool are now locked on to Yan Diomande as their number one target to replace Mo Salah this summer”.
Interest in the young winger is not difficult to understand. Diomande has quickly developed a reputation across Europe as one of the most exciting emerging attackers in the Bundesliga. Despite his relative inexperience at the top level, his production has been eye-catching. This season he has delivered 10 goals and seven assists in 26 appearances, averaging a goal involvement roughly every 110 minutes.
Those numbers tell part of the story. Scouts across the continent have been intrigued not only by his output but by the unpredictability in his game. One European scout explained to TEAMtalk why clubs are tracking him so closely: “With Diomande, unlike most, there is no major back catalogue, he has only been playing top-level football for just over 12 months. So clubs are now doing all the work they can on him.”
Diomande emerges as leading Salah replacement option
Initially, Liverpool explored other attacking targets. One name that attracted attention was Michael Olise, widely considered one of Europe’s most creative wide players. However, that pursuit appears to have reached a dead end.
Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg confirmed that Liverpool’s focus has shifted. Writing on X, he stated: “Since a transfer for Michael Olise in the summer is not considered realistic, Liverpool’s Bundesliga focus has shifted to Yan Diomande. 19 y/o is being monitored, and talks have already taken place.”
That shift speaks volumes about Liverpool’s priorities. While Olise might represent a more established option, Diomande offers something Liverpool have often valued highly: potential combined with adaptability.
There is also the reality that Liverpool may soon lose more than one attacking option. Plettenberg added that both Salah and Federico Chiesa could leave Anfield this summer, meaning the club could face a significant reshaping of its forward line.
Transfer fee hurdle facing Liverpool pursuit
Of course, talent rarely comes cheap in the modern market. Leipzig are well aware of the growing interest surrounding Diomande, and they are in no rush to part with one of their brightest prospects.
According to the same report, the Bundesliga club are demanding a fee of up to €100 million for the winger. Plettenberg explained the situation clearly: “RB Leipzig are demanding up to €100 million for Diomande. Therefore, a move to FC Bayern is currently also unrealistic.”
That valuation places Liverpool at a familiar crossroads. They must decide whether Diomande is worth the premium price required to secure his services.
Competition will also be fierce. Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham and Newcastle have all monitored the player, while European giants including Real Madrid, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain have taken an interest.
For Liverpool, the calculation may ultimately come down to timing. If Salah departs, the club will need not just a replacement but a new attacking focal point capable of shaping the next phase of Liverpool’s evolution.
Diomande might not yet possess Salah’s experience or reputation. Few players do. Yet in football, succession rarely comes with certainty. It arrives with promise, risk and belief.
While the college football offseason is in full swing, the Texas Longhorns are still making headlines. On Thursday, the Longhorns and their fan base were awarded the 2025–26 Coca-Cola Bowl Season Team Challenge Championship. It is the second season of the award, which honors a program that best exemplifies On-Field Success, Community Service, and Fan Engagement.
Although the Longhorns' bowl season only lasted one game, they made the most of it. The Longhorns recorded a 41-27 win over Michigan in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl. Against the Wolverines, quarterback Arch Manning completed 21 of his 34 passes for 221 yards. He was also a menace on the ground with a team-high 155 rushing yards on nine carries.
For many in Austin, the latest honor is a testament to the culture that head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff has built. That includes Athletics Director Chris Del Conte who took the time to praise those involved.
"We're extremely proud of Coach Sarkisian and our football program and thrilled to see them recognized for their outstanding performance at the Citrus Bowl," Del Conte told Longhorns athletics. " The way our team represented Texas throughout bowl week and on game day exemplified everything Texas Athletics stands for. Their commitment to the community and unwavering support of Longhorn Nation is truly second to none. Winning the Bowl Season Team Challenge Title is a testament to the hard work, discipline, and championship culture built within our program."'
As the Longhorns turn their focus to the 2026 campaign, they will be looking to win a national title. They have a star-studded roster that now includes Cam Coleman and some of the players who were in the transfer portal. Those additions will be key to helping Texas make a deep playoff run.
Before they turn the page completely on the 2025 season, Texas will reflect one last time on its latest honor. The trophy presentation is scheduled for Texas's final spring practice day on April 18th.
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🚨 Headlines
🏀 Tatum's return: Jayson Tatum is expected to make his season debut tonight against the Mavericks, just 10 months after going down with a torn Achilles. His rapid recovery, paired with Boston's unexpected success in his absence, should make them a serious title contender.
🏈 Moore to Buffalo: The Bears are trading WR DJ Moore to the Bills, giving Josh Allen a new weapon in the passing game. Chicago will receive a 2026 second-round pick in return, while Buffalo will also acquire a 2026 fifth-rounder along with Moore.
⚽️ Miami visits White House: Lionel Messi and Inter Miami, in town for a game against D.C. United, visited the White House on Thursday to commemorate the team winning the 2025 MLS Cup.
🏀 LeBron passes Kareem: LeBron James has broken yet another NBA record, passing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the all-time leader in field goals made. James previously passed Abdul-Jabbar in minutes played and points scored.
⚾️ USA’s superteam begins its title quest
(Taylor Wilhelm/Yahoo Sports)
After months of anticipation, the best roster ever assembled by USA Baseball begins its pursuit of a World Baseball Classic title tonight against Brazil (8pm ET, Fox).
From Yahoo Sports' Jordan Shusterman:
Even as a relatively young tournament compared to the premier international competitions in other sports, the WBC has grown in reverence with each edition, as the star power has multiplied and the knockout stages have provided enduring highlights.
For Team USA — champions in the event just once in five tries — this edition of the tournament is an opportunity to reassert itself as the undisputed home of baseball's very best. And if the rare strength of the roster is any indication, the opportunity is being taken quite seriously by those involved.
The motivation permeating Team USA's star-studded roster is only amplified by how the last WBC ended: with Shohei Ohtani striking out Mike Trout to seal a 3-2 victory in the championship game and claim Samurai Japan's third tournament title.
It's an image that has lingered in the baseball ether, replayed relentlessly both stateside and abroad, especially as Ohtani's highlight reel has grown. For Team USA manager Mark DeRosa, back at the helm after falling short three years ago, that final out lit a fire for him and the entire American baseball apparatus.
"I think there's a fear of missing out on the United States' side. My talks in recruiting the players were a heck of a lot different this time around than in 2023," says DeRosa. "I just feel like there's been a tidal wave of emotion, kind of wanting to win this thing."
(Taylor Wilhelm/Yahoo Sports)
With the United States' men's hockey team's dramatic triumph over rival Canada in the Olympics still fresh in everyone's minds, it's no surprise that members of USA Baseball have been quick to reference that victory as something to strive for in their own domain.
But the scenario on ice was much different: Team USA was playing the underdog role, while Canada had amalgamated a stunning amount of world-class talent — talent that was on display for much of the gold-medal game until USA seized victory in overtime.
If we're drawing parallels to other national teams, USA Basketball is perhaps a more apt comparison. Even as the game of basketball has grown globally, with several of the best players on the planet hailing from other countries (sound familiar?), USA Basketball has usually had a deep enough pool of talent to emerge victorious in the highest profile international competitions.
That notably includes the Summer Olympics, in which the USA men have taken gold in eight of the past nine tournaments. The lone defeat in that span — to Argentina in 2004 — spurred the so-called "Redeem Team" four years later, a play on the "Dream Team" that dominated in 1992.
Taking it back to the diamond, it's fair to say that Team USA is entering the World Baseball Classic with elements of both the Dream Team and the Redeem Team. This is an unprecedented group of talent that also has something to prove.
Scheyer signals to his team during Monday's record-tying win. (Nicholas Faulkner/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
🏀 117 wins
Jon Scheyer is 117-24 since taking over at Duke in 2022, tying Butler's Brad Stevens for the most wins by a D1 coach in their first four seasons. With one regular-season game left, plus the ACC and NCAA tournaments, it's safe to say Scheyer and the top-ranked Blue Devils will soon stand alone at the top of that list.
Flashback: Stevens' best of those first four seasons (2007-11) was the 2009-10 campaign, when his Bulldogs went 33-5 and came about two inches away from upsetting Duke in the national title game. And who was the Blue Devils' point guard that season? A senior named Jon Scheyer.
🏒 14 years
The Sabres' 14-year playoff drought, by far the longest in the NHL and the second-longest in major North American sports (Jets), should soon become a thing of the past as Buffalo hurtles toward clinching its first postseason berth since 2011.
Scorching hot: The Sabres (37-19-6) have gone 26-5-2 since Dec. 9, outscoring their opponents by 44 goals in that span to climb to third place in the East, just four points behind the first-place Hurricanes.
(Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)
🎶 4.16 billion views
Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show was the fourth-most watched ever in terms of live audience (128.2 million), but when accounting for YouTube and other digital platforms it drew a record 4.16 billion views globally in the first 24 hours after his performance. Hardly surprising given the Puerto Rican star has been Spotify's most-streamed artist in four of the past six years.
4.16 billion?!? We throw around a lot of big numbers here (see: the literal name of this section), but it's worth pausing to grasp just how massive 4.16 billion is. For starters, that's more than half the world's population (8.27 billion) — roughly the equivalent of every person in the Americas, Europe and Africa combined. Obviously not every view is a different person, but still… Kinda crazy.
⚾️ +225
The Dodgers are heavy favorites to win their third straight World Series (+225 at BetMGM), giving them the shortest preseason title odds since the Yankees in 2003 (+200). On the one hand, just four preseason favorites have won it all this century; on the other hand, two of those were the Dodgers the past two seasons.
Other contenders: The Yankees have the second-best odds to win the Fall Classic (+1000), followed by the Mariners (+1300), Blue Jays (+1300), Mets (+1400), Braves (+1600), Red Sox (+1600), Phillies (+1600), Cubs (+2000), Tigers (+2000), Orioles (+2200) and Astros (+2200).
📺 Weekend Watchlist
The Paralympic logo on display in Cortina d'Ampezzo. (Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
By the numbers: 665 athletes from 56 nations will compete in 79 medal events across six sports: Para Alpine Skiing, Para Biathlon, Para Cross-Country Skiing, Para Ice Hockey, Para Snowboard and Wheelchair Curling. Full schedule.
⚾️ World Baseball Classic
Team USA takes the field this weekend in Houston for its first two games in the 20-team tournament, facing Brazil tonight (8pm, Fox) and Great Britain tomorrow (8pm, Fox). Giants ace Logan Webb gets the ball for the opener, and two-time reigning Cy Young Tarik Skubal starts tomorrow.
Best of the rest: Japan, who won its opener this morning, faces South Korea tomorrow (5am, FS1) and Australia on Sunday (6am, FS1) in Tokyo. The Dominican Republic's superteam faces Nicaragua tonight (7pm, FS2) and the Netherlands on Sunday (12pm, Fox) in Miami.
🏎️ F1 Season Opener
The 77th Formula 1 season kicks off on Saturday at the Australian Grand Prix (11pm, Apple TV), where McLaren and Lando Norris will begin their title defense. As a reminder, broadcast rights have shifted from ESPN to Apple, with all races available to Apple TV subscribers at no additional cost.
New era:How you watch isn't the only thing changing this year. An 11th team (Cadillac) has also been added to the grid, meaning races will have 22 drivers instead of 20. Various new rules and regulations have also been implemented that will impact the car's power units, aerodynamics, tires and fuel.
🏒 Hockey Day in America
USA Hockey's annual weeklong celebration of the sport is capped off on Sunday by a quadrupleheader of nationally-televised NHL games: Wild at Avalanche (2pm ET, TNT); Bruins at Penguins (4:30pm, TNT); Red Wings at Devils (7pm, ESPN); Oilers at Golden Knights (9:30pm, ESPN).
Plus: There are four additional national broadcasts on Friday and Saturday: Panthers at Red Wings (Fri. 7pm, NHL); Capitals at Bruins (Sat. 12:30pm, ABC); Rangers at Devils (Sat. 3pm, ABC); Lightning at Maple Leafs (Sat. 7pm, NHL).
🏀 College Hoops
The final weekend of the men's regular season is headlined by the sport's greatest rivalry, as top-ranked Duke hosts No. 17 North Carolina on Saturday night (6:30pm, ESPN). Sunday's marquee game isn't too bad either, with No. 3 Michigan hosting No. 8 Michigan State (4:30pm, CBS).
Meanwhile, for the women: The Power Four all hold their conference championship games on Sunday, where Duke will be favored in the ACC (1pm, ESPN), UCLA in the Big Ten (2:15pm, CBS), South Carolina in the SEC (3pm, ESPN) and TCU in the Big 12 (5pm, ESPN).
More to watch:
🏀 NBA: Clippers at Spurs (Fri. 9:30pm, ESPN); Warriors at Thunder (Sat. 8:30pm, ABC); Celtics at Cavaliers (Sun. 1pm, ABC); Knicks at Lakers (Sun. 3:30pm, ABC); Rockets at Spurs (Sun. 8pm, NBC) … Full weekend slate.
⚽️ SheBelieves Cup: Canada vs. Argentina (Sat. 12:30pm, truTV); USA vs. Colombia (Sat. 3:30pm, TBS) … The USWNT (2-0) will clinch the title with a win or draw. A loss would open the door for Colombia (1-1) or Canada (1-1).
⛳️ PGA: Arnold Palmer Invitational (Fri-Sun, ESPN+/Golf/NBC) … Daniel Berger (-9) leads by three strokes at Bay Hill.
🎾 Tennis: Indian Wells (Fri-Sun, Tennis) … Early-round matches for Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff and more.
🏁 NASCAR: Phoenix Raceway (Sun. 3:30pm, FS1) … Tyler Reddick already made history by winning the first three races of the season. Can he go 4-for-4?
🏁 IndyCar: Phoenix Raceway (Sat. 3pm, Fox) … No, that's not a typo. The two biggest domestic racing series will share the track this weekend.
👊 UFC 326: Max Holloway vs. Charles Oliveira (9pm, Paramount+) … Two all-time greats square off in a rematch in Las Vegas for the lightweight "BMF" title ("baddest motherf***er").
🥍 PLL/WLL: Championship Series (Fri-Sun, ESPN App) … Semifinals and finals of the men's and women's six-on-six tournaments in Springfield, Virginia.
Plus: ⚽️ MLS: Matchday 3 (Sat-Sun, Apple); LIV Golf: Hong Kong (Fri-Sun, FS1); 🏉 Six Nations: Week 4 of 5 (Fri-Sat, Peacock); 🏏 T20 World Cup Final: New Zealand vs. India (Sun. 9:30am, Willow TV)
Got plans this weekend? Gametime is the best place to score last-minute tickets to the events happening in your city. Get tickets now!
❤️ Why we love sports
Paul with his old press pass.
Paul O. (Frederick, Maryland) writes:
It was November 1984, and I was one of four students at the University of Maryland covering sports for the college radio station.
We were the WMUC broadcast crew for the football team that year, and excited that the Terps were in the midst of another successful season under Bobby Ross. An upcoming game at No. 6 Miami in the historic Orange Bowl was not to be missed.
Given the limited budget of college radio, however, our only viable travel option was to drive the 1,000 miles from College Park to Miami. We piled into the best car any of us owned – a four-year old Toyota Celica GT – with our equipment, our bags and some snacks for the cramped 17-hour journey.
Upon arriving at the Orange Bowl to set up for our broadcast, we made our way into the iconic stadium and found that the host school had assigned us to the roof of the press box. As the only media members in that open air setting, we literally had a bird's eye view of the field and most of Miami. A 31-0 first half drubbing by the Hurricanes did little to lift our spirits.
We had driven through the night to witness Maryland's most embarrassing half of football in many years. Nobody was looking forward to another 30 minutes of this debacle. But somehow, things changed.
Frank Reich in action during the second half. (RVR Photos/Imagn Images)
QB Frank Reich came off the bench to replace Stan Gelbaugh in the second half, and the Terps began moving the ball. On the other side, the Bernie Kosar-led Miami offense that could do no wrong in the first half suddenly began stalling.
With each possession, the Terps cut into the hefty deficit, and as the final minutes ticked down, the game was miraculously within reach.
Six touchdown passes by Reich in the second half eventually led to the largest comeback in NCAA history at the time, a 42-40 win for Maryland that we were there to witness and to broadcast… from the rooftop of the historic Orange Bowl (RIP).
Many great games were played in that classic stadium through the years, but none were ever better than that one for four college boys from College Park.
The 17-hour drive home didn't seem nearly that long.
✍️ Submit your story: Do you have a fondest sports memory? Or an example of sports having a profound impact on your life? If you'd like to share, email me at kendall.baker@yahooinc.com. We'll keep sharing your stories until they run out!
🏎️ F1 trivia
Cadillac’s Sergio Pérez during preseason testing. (Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Cadillac has been added to the grid this season as F1's 11th team, and Sauber has rebranded to Audi.
Question: Can you name the other nine teams?
Answer at the bottom.
📸 Photo finish
Brazilian Paralympic snowboarder Andre Barbieri during Wednesday's training session in Cortina. (Dario Belingheri/Getty Images)
"The Olympics are where heroes are created; the Paralympics are where heroes come."
— Ian Bonhôte, director of "Rising Phoenix," a Paralympics documentary that I highly recommend watching. It's on Netflix.
Trivia answer: Alpine, Aston Martin, Ferrari, Haas, McLaren, Mercedes, Racing Bulls, Red Bull Racing, Williams
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Brentford face West Ham United at London Stadium in the fifth round of the FA Cup on Monday night (7.30pm kick-off GMT), live on TNT Sports 1.
The Bees, aiming to progress to their first quarter-final of the competition since the 1988/89 season, have defeated Sheffield Wednesday and Macclesfield to reach this stage.
Analysis, team news, match officials and more. Here's everything you need to know ahead of the game.
Pre-match analysis
Stephen Gillett, Playmaker Stats: How London Stadium win became blueprint for Bees' away successes
Premier League away specialists since the turn of the year, Brentford visit West Ham in the FA Cup on Monday with a place in the quarter-final up for grabs.
After safely negotiating their way past non-league giant-slayers Macclesfield in the fourth round of England's premier cup competition, the Bees travel across the capital with happy memories of their last trip east to London Stadium.
Keith Andrews' first-ever away Premier League win came against the Hammers last October, when goals from Igor Thiago and Mathias Jensen earned Brentford a 2-0 victory in what was also Nuno Espírito Santo's first home game in charge of the east London outfit.
In many ways, the Bees' performance that night set the standard for Andrews and his side away from Gtech Community Stadium. Brentford dominated nearly 60 per cent of possession and fired a season-high 22 shots in an emphatic display that also saw them hit the woodwork twice, while a deft Thiago chip was ruled out for offside.
Much of Brentford's play flowed down their right flank that night, and Michael Kayode set a marker in terms of his attacking output.
Signed permanently from Fiorentina last summer, the Italian Under-21 international has established himself as one of the most athletic and progressive full-backs in the Premier League this season - and he posted some exceptional numbers in that victory over the Hammers.
Courtesy of a marauding display, Kayode became the first Brentford player ever to create six chances from open play in a Premier League match. His seven chances created overall also matched the record by an Italian player in Opta's records. Kayode and Sandro Tonali remain the standard-bearers for Italian creativity in this respect.
Those seven key passes remain the most by a defender in a 2025/26 Premier League game; only Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes (8) has managed more in a single encounter.
While Brentford will again look to exploit Kayode's strengths on Monday, West Ham will hope a game-changing talent of their own can dictate proceedings down the same flank.
West Ham (45%) may have concentrated more of their attacks down their right than any team in the top flight this season, but Crysencio Summerville has been electric down the left in recent months.
The Hammers' match-winner against League One side Burton Albion in the previous round, Summerville has scored seven goals across league and cup in 2026. Manchester City winger Antoine Semenyo and Chelsea forward João Pedro (both eight) are the only Premier League players to score more goals since the turn of the year.
Summerville combined with Jarrod Bowen to net a priceless winner for the Hammers midweek at Fulham, and Brentford will certainly need to be wary of the threat West Ham pose in wide areas.
Andrews and Nuno may rotate their squads, but how their respective sides fare on the flanks is likely to shape the outcome on Monday night.
Scout report
Dan Long, Sky Sports: The 'significant turnaround' at West Ham
Even though Nuno Espírito Santo arrived at West Ham just over a month into the 2025/26 season, he already had a firefighting job on his hands.
Under Graham Potter, the Hammers had lost four of their first five Premier League games. Ironically, their only win to that point had been against Nottingham Forest - who were then managed by Nuno.
They were second-bottom then and still there a month later, having picked up just one more point from a 1-1 draw away at Everton.
Following the 2-1 defeat to Leeds at Elland Road on 24 October, Nuno told Sky Sports: “We have to change. The players know, we know. The club knows there is still time. Time can also be a bad sign if we don’t change immediately.”
Back-to-back home wins for the first time since October 2024 followed, moving West Ham to within goal difference of safety. Yet it proved to be a false dawn. They did not win any of the next 10 league games, despite taking the lead in five of them.
One of the lowest moments came on 3 January, when the Hammers were beaten 3-0 by bottom club Wolves, who had not won a league game to that point. Nuno called that performance “embarrassing.” He added: “I don’t recall one day that I felt so bad on a football pitch like today.”
Three days later, they met Forest in what was billed as a relegation six-pointer, and lost that one, too, leaving them seven points from safety.
The pressure was steadily ramping up, but it seems to have shocked them into action.
Since that day, they have played eight Premier League games and taken 14 points from them, as many as they had managed from the previous 21.
That upturn has been carried into the FA Cup, too, with extra-time wins over QPR and Burton earning a spot in the fifth round for the first time since 2022/23. A first quarter-final in a decade is potentially just 90 minutes away.
Six wins from the last 10 games in all competitions underline what has been a significant turnaround.
Opta Analyst’s predicted final Premier League table still has West Ham finishing 18th, with the probability of that happening currently standing at 49.94 per cent.
But with Leeds, Nottingham Forest and Tottenham also in the mix, there remains a real opportunity across the final nine games to secure Premier League survival, which looked increasingly unlikely at the turn of the year.
In the Dugout
Nuno Espírito Santo
Once signed by José Mourinho during his time at Porto, Nuno Espírito Santo had a long career as a goalkeeper - though often played second fiddle - primarily spent in Portugal and Spain, with time in Russia at Dynamo Moscow during 2005 and 2006.
Nuno retired in 2010, after his second spell at Porto, but quickly went on to become a goalkeeper coach at Malaga and then Panathinaikos, working with his former manager Jesualdo Ferreira each time. He returned to Portugal to take on his first managerial role with Rio Ave in the summer of 2012 and remained at the club for two years.
He was then hired by Valencia, whom he guided to a fourth-place finish in La Liga in 2014/15, though he resigned less than four months into the following campaign after three defeats in their first five Champions League group matches, as well as five wins from the first 13 league matches, which left them languishing in ninth when he departed.
Porto decided to take a chance on their former player in 2016/17, yet he only saw out half of his two-year deal as the club opted to replace him the following summer after he failed to deliver silverware, despite losing only six of his 49 games in charge.
The 52-year-old is perhaps best known for the four years he spent at Wolves. He joined the club at the end of a chaotic 2016/17 campaign - during which they had three permanent managers - and led them to promotion out of the Championship at the first time of asking. In 2019/20, Wolves recorded their joint-highest Premier League finish (7th) and their highest points tally (59), as well as reaching the quarter-final of the Europa League.
Having left Molineux by mutual consent in June 2021, Nuno went to Tottenham and started well with three-straight Premier League wins. Ultimately, he lasted only four months in the job, having followed up those victories with five defeats in the next seven.
He then spent 16 months in Saudi Arabia, guiding Al-Ittihad to the Saudi Pro League title and Saudi Super Cup, and returned to England just before Christmas 2023, having been dismissed little over a month earlier, to join Nottingham Forest.
In his first season at the City Ground, Nuno helped Forest retain their Premier League status by a margin of six points and in his one and only full season there, he guided the club to their highest finish since 1994/95 and Europe for the first time since 1995/96. He was sacked on 9 September, but signed a three-year deal at West Ham 18 days later.
The Gameplan
With Sam Tabuteau, Standard Sport
Sam Tabuteau of Standard Sport explains how West Ham are likely to line up on Monday night.
"They have a counter-attacking style, typically with a four-man defence and they will try to play into the wingers, try and attack quickly in transition," he told brentfordfc.com earlier this week.
"They are modelled on the successes Nuno has had at Forest and Wolves in the past, so their ability to be able to get the ball to Crysencio Summerville and Jarrod Bowen out wide is important."
Last starting XI v West Ham (4-5-1): Hermansen; Wan-Bissaka, Mavropanos, Disasi, Diouf; Bowen, Soucek, Fernandes, Magassa, Summerville; Castellanos
Match Officials
Madley in charge on Monday night
Referee: Andrew Madley
Assistants: Craig Taylor and Marc Perry
Fourth official: Will Finnie
VAR: Constantine Hatzidakis
Andrew Madley will take charge of his fourth Brentford game of the season when the Bees travel to east London on Monday night.
The Huddersfield-born official has overseen the west Londoners' visit to West Ham in the Premier League, as well as an away win at Newcastle United and goalless draw at home to Tottenham.
Across the 19 games he has refereed in 2025/26, Madley has dished out 60 yellow cards and four reds.
Last meeting
West Ham 0 Brentford 2, (Premier League, 20 October 2025)
Brentford secured their first away win of the 2025/26 season following a dominant victory against West Ham at London Stadium.
Following a series of chances, Igor Thiago finished off a move involving Yehor Yarmoliuk and Kevin Schade late in the first half.
The Bees had 22 shots throughout the game, but it wasn't until second-half stoppage-time that they got a deserved second as Keane Lewis-Potter teed up Mathias Jensen to fire into the back of the net.
🚨 Urgent: Griezmann will not be joining MLS (L'Équipe)
The legend of Les Bleus has made his decision.
For several weeks, Antoine Griezmann was rumored to be very close to joining Orlando City in the middle of the season.
Although he still dreams of joining the MLS, the Frenchman has reportedly decided to finish the season with Atlético Madrid, according to information from L'Équipe.
The sports daily notes that his future should therefore be decided this summer. Orlando City is no longer the only club in the running, with Inter Miami, CF Montréal, and Los Angeles also showing interest in the matter.
As a reminder, Atlético Madrid is still in the running to win a Copa del Rey and possibly a Champions League.
Griezmann won't leave Atlético mid-season, says L'Equipe
Antoine Griezmann has decided not to leave Atlético de Madrid mid-season, according to 'L'Equipe'
Journalist Loïc Tanzi reports that despite having conversations with Orlando City and his well-known interest in playing in Major League Soccer, the world champion did not want to leave in the middle of the campaign.
Griezmann has a contract with Atlético de Madrid until 2027, and his departure could occur in the summer either to Orlando or other clubs, as both Inter Miami and CF Montréal have him on their agendas.
NEW DELHI: Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis heaped glowing praise on India pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah after the fast bowler’s decisive spell helped India edge past England by seven runs in the semifinal of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup at the Wankhede Stadium.
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Calling Bumrah a match-winner across formats, du Plessis said having him in the team was “like having a genie”.
India had earlier piled up a massive 253/7 riding on a stunning 42-ball 89 from Sanju Samson. But England threatened to chase it down thanks to a sensational hundred from Jacob Bethell.
With England needing 45 runs from the last three overs and momentum on their side, the match swung dramatically when captain Suryakumar Yadav handed the ball to Bumrah for the crucial 18th over.
In a game where bowlers had been hammered all around the park, Bumrah conceded just six runs, effectively turning the tide. England eventually finished at 246/7, falling agonisingly short despite Bethell’s 105.
Speaking on ESPNcricinfo’s TimeOut show, du Plessis said India might not fully realise how fortunate they are to have a bowler like Bumrah.
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“Team India don't understand how lucky they are to have him in their ranks,” du Plessis said. “It is just proven time and time and time again, regardless of the format — you just give him the ball and he wins you games.”
“It’s a superpower that any captain will dream of. It’s like having a genie — you just rub the lamp and out comes Bumrah,” he added.
Du Plessis highlighted how even Bumrah’s occasional errors become difficult for batters to capitalise on because of his unique action and late release.
“They know it’s going to be full — yorker or slower ball. He bowled two low full tosses in that over and both times Sam Curran was late on the ball. Any other bowler missing length like that goes for six,” he explained.
“He’s got such a unique action that it’s hard to pick how quickly the ball comes out of his wrist. That mystery makes it very hard to line him up.”
Bumrah finished with figures of 1/33 from four overs in a match that produced a staggering 499 runs. As India prepare for the final against New Zealand, the hopes of a billion fans will once again rest on their “genie with the ball.”
One player they've been heavily linked to in trade rumors is A.J. Brown, who seems to be unhappy with the Philadelphia Eagles and wants out. He also has a relationship with Mike Vrabel after playing three seasons for him.
However, his price probably just went up after the Buffalo Bills overpaid for D.J. Moore in a trade with the Chicago Bears.
Brown's one of the best receivers in the league, but he's also one of the most dramatic. Is he worth it?
"I just don't think it's what they should do. I would much rather slightly overpay (Alec) Pierce from the Colts and keep my first-round pick," Simmons said on Thursday's episode of "The Bill Simmons Podcast." "I think Pierce is really good...He was in a quarterback wasteland, and watching the Colts, that dude got open every game."
Simmons said he would rather see the Patriots overpay Pierce in free agency and keep their first-round draft pick. Pierce is currently projected to receive around four years and $100 million.
At 25, Pierce is three years younger than Brown. He also comes with far less baggage and drama.
Pierce is also trending up. His receiving yards have increased in each of the last two seasons, nearly doubling from 514 to 1,003. He's also led the NFL in yards per catch over the last two years.
Meanwhile, Brown's receiving yards have declined in three straight seasons, so his career seems to be heading in the wrong direction as he approaches his 30th birthday.
NFL free agency starts next week, so time will tell if New England makes a push for Pierce.
Now that the Calendar has turned to March, MLB Spring Training is now in full bloom as both the Cactus and Grapefruit leagues have been playing full game schedules for over a week. With many stars departing to compete in the WBC, they will leave behind their teammates to battle for starting jobs and roster spots for their respective MLB teams. In this space, we are going to take a weekly look at some of the positions and roster battles for each team, and how the contenders are doing in camp. As you watch the Spring training highlights and scour the internet for box scores, you might see some names that you might not recognize. We’re here to help.
Let’s take a look at a team-by-team MLB breakdown on some position/roster battles amongst hitters in the Senior Circuit and how they have developed in the early going so far this Winter. It’s far too early to draw hard conclusions, but we can at least identify some battles that we will be watching for the next 3 weeks or so.
Nov 1, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Los Angeles Dodgers second baseman Tommy Edman (25) hits an RBI sacrifice fly against the Toronto Blue Jays in the sixth inning during game seven of the 2025 MLB World Series at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
This team is stacked and ready to roll for title #3 in a row in 2026. It’s for that reason that there really isn’t much to talk about in regard to their lineup aside from whether Dave Roberts will use Tommy Edman at 2nd with Hyeseong Kim as their super sub, or vice versa. Miguel Rojas is still in the mix to help out until Edman can get healthy. The outfield is set with Kyle Tucker, Andy Pages, and Teoscar Hernandez set to start, but there are some questions about who may make this squad as their backup.
They have a trio of young and athletic outfielders knocking on the door in Josue De Paula, Zyhir Hope, and Zach Ehrhard, all making noise in camp, with Eduardo Quintero right behind them. There are also a few veteran names like Alex Call and Ryan Ward on the roster, who could make the opening day roster.
Tommy Edman. He’s most likely to be their super sub, as Dave Roberts mentioned that he loves the flexibility that Edman gives him, as he can play every position on the field. He’s basically going to get starter-level at-bats but has yet to appear in a Spring game as he works his way back from an ankle injury. He’s not going to make it back before opening day.
Miguel Rojas. He’s been around for a long while and could have some value early on in NL-only formats if he plays every day. He’s gone 6 for 16 with a homer and 4 RBI so far.
Hyeseong Kim. He will fill a super utility role early on and share 2B at bats with Rojas and eventually Edman. He’s 6 for 13 with a homer and 2 steals so far. He has some deep mixed league appeal and is worth more than a few bucks in an NL-only auction.
Alex Call. The former Nat will likely make the team as a reserve as he’s on the 40-man and can back up all three OF spots. He has 2 hits in 7 Spring at-bats,
Ryan Ward. Too old to be considered a prospect, but the 28-year-old lit up AAA last year with 36 homers, 122 RBI, and 16 steals. So far in camp, he’s gone 3 for 22 with 7 Ks, so we may have a Quad-A player here. Nothing to go nuts over, unless he’s cut and lands on the Rockies.
San Francisco Giants. (UT, 4th OF)
Mar 3, 2026; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; San Francisco Giants first baseman Bryce Eldridge against Team USA during a spring training game at Scottsdale Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Giants lineup will be fairly set, but there are a few names worth tracking this Spring. Bryce Eldridge is one, as he is slated to get a chunk of the at-bats at 1st base, while sharing the position along with DH at-bats with Raffy Devers. Casey Schmitt is another name to watch as he is competing with Tyler Fitzgerald and Christian Koss to back up all of the infield positions. A couple of outfield names have popped in the box scores so far in Jerar Encarnacion, Luis Matos, and Victor Bericoto, as they are all competing with Will Brennan for the 4th and 5th OF spots behind Bader, Ramos, and Jung Hoo Lee.
Bryce Eldridge. He’s a name to watch as he’s gone 4 for 17 so far with a homer and 3 RBI. The 7-3 K/BB ratio isn’t ideal, but it’s early. The Ks are what make him a bit of a batting average liability, but the power is exciting, even in that home stadium.
Casey Schmitt. He’s gone 5 for 15 so far with a stolen base. He’s the guy we want to see as their super sub, and he has the potential to hit 15 homers with a few steals. He’s a name to track for NL-only leagues only.
Tyler Fitzgerald. He’s been up and down for the last 3 years between AAA and the Giants. He’s a backup only and has gone 2 for 17 with 5 Ks and 0 walks so far. Ignore him.
Jerar Encarnacion. He’s gotten a bunch of at-bats, so we see him in the box score every day. He’s just 3 for 19 with 7 Ks and 0 walks. He’s on the 40-man, so he may make this team as their 5th OF, but nothing more.
Luis Matos. He’s still young (24) despite being up with the team for the last 3 years. He has gone 6 for 16 so far with a homer and a stolen base and should make the team as a 4th or 5th OF. He has some pop and speed and good bat-to-ball skills, but as of yet, that hasn’t yielded much. Track him for deep NL-only leagues only.
Will Brennan. I’m sure he’s a great guy, but he’s just blah for fantasy. He can make contact, but it leads to nothing but singles and groundouts. So far in camp, he’s 4 for 12 with 0 homers and 0 steals. He’s the safe bet to make the roster, and if he ends up on your NL-only squad, then things didn’t go well for you.
San Diego Padres (1B/2B/DH)
Oct 2, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; San Diego Padres left fielder Gavin Sheets (30) singles during the fifth inning against the Chicago Cubs during game three of the Wildcard round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
The Padres brought in a bunch of similarly profiled hitters to compete for at-bats between 1st, 2nd, and DH. None of these guys are going before pick #400 on average, so we are doing a bit of dumpster diving here. It’s something to watch for NL-only leagues and super deep formats, as we are talking about over 1700 plate appearances up for grabs.
It’s going to come down to Gavin Sheets, Nick Castellanos, Sung-Mun Song, Jake Cronenworth, Miguel Andújar, Jose Miranda, Ty France, and Luis Campusano. A few of those names will be sent to the minors or will be playing Indy Ball in a town near you come May, but a couple of them just might get us 450-500 at-bats and help our NL-only squads.
Gavin Sheets. He has the inside track to the lefty at bats at 1st after hitting 19 bombs last year. He’s gone 2 for 10 with 5 walks vs 3 Ks in the early going. I’m interested.
Nick Castellanos. He’s right-handed, so maybe he sticks as the short side at 1B/DH since they put him on their 40-man when they signed him to a minimum contract. He’s 4 for 16 with a homer so far, and his name will get him drafted by somebody. No, thank you.
Sung-Mun Song. The Korean import was slowed by an oblique issue but has returned and has gone 3 for 145 so far with 6 Ks vs 3 walks. He bats from the left side and will compete for at-bats at 1st and 2nd. As a late flier or $1 guy in an NL-only league, I’m interested.
Jake Cronenworth. His ADP has bottomed out to around pick #500; he has gone 3 for 14 with a double so far in camp. He’s likely to start on opening day at 2nd and is worth a shot in NL-only leagues.
Miguel Andujar. He’s there to back up the corner OF spots but is basically competing with Castellanos for right-handed DH duties. He’s gone 5 for 17 with a homer and a steal so far. Given the choice, I’d prefer him to Casty. But neither of them excites me.
Jose Miranda. The former Twins 3B is trying to catch on in San Diego as a backup corner or righty DH. He’s not on the 40-man roster, so he’s likely going to need to blow Craig Stammen away to earn a spot. He started hot with 7 hits in his first 17 at-bats with a homer.
Ty France. He’s in the same boat as Miranda, trying to make this team as a righty bat. He’s gone 5 for 14 with 2 walks vs. 3 Ks so far. He feels like a future Long Island Duck.
Luis Campusano. He’s making the team as the backup catcher, but he has enough pop that he could be the righty DH. He has started slowly with just 2 hits in 15 at-bats with a walk and 4 Ks. He’s a deep sleeper as a 2nd catcher in NL-only formats.
Arizona Diamondbacks (OF)
Arizona Diamondbacks Jordan Lawlar catches a fly ball during spring training workouts at Salt River Fields on Feb. 13, 2026, in Scottsdale.
The D-Backs biggest question as we head towards opening day is how soon will they get Corbin Carroll back? And, how will his recovery from hamate bone surgery affect his production in the early going? With both Carroll and Lourdes Gurriel on the mend, the Arizona outfield seems like it’s pretty much up in the air with Jordan Lawlar, Alek Thomas, Tim Tawa, Jorge Barrosa, Ryan Waldschmidt, and non-roster invitees Oscar Mercado and Kristian Robinson all getting the bulk of the outfield at-bats in Spring games thus far.
Jordan Lawlar. He’s a shortstop by trade, but Arizona wants to get his bat in the lineup, and the outfield is his best bet. So far in camp, he is 4 for 12 with 2 homers. He’s a good bet to get an early run in CF.
Alek Thomas. Slated to be the starter in center, he has slid to left to allow Lawlar to cover center in camp. Thomas has gone 6 for 16 thus far, including 2 doubles, a triple, and a stolen base. He’s a safe bet to get a lot of at-bats, and he’s practically free in drafts right now. He has more value in NL-only leagues, where at-bats are at a premium and where 10 homers and 10 steals are worth a bit more.
Tim Tawa. He’s a backup utility player who can cover every position on the field. He’s gone 5 for 15 with a homer and 3 RBI so far. He can carve out similar stats as Thomas, and isn’t the worst end-game pick-up in NL-only leagues.
Ryan Waldschmidt. The D-Dacks top prospect has 6 hits in 19 at-bats this Spring with a homer and a steal. He’s going to get a chance to play early on, and if he shows he can handle big league pitching, he should stay in the lineup over Alek Thomas. He’s the one I want from this group at his ADP of 590.
Kristian Robinson. He’s been getting at-bats this Spring and has gone 5 for 12 with 2 steals. Nothing to worry about right now, but if he sticks with the team through camp and somehow makes the team, he could steal you a few bases as a sub in deep NL-only leagues. He had some off-field issues that affected his development, but stole 34 bases between AA and AAA last year.
Oscar Mercado. He made some waves back in 2019 as a rookie in Cleveland and has been a lot of nothing since. He’s gone 5 for 13 so far in camp, but he’s likely headed to AAA to fill a roster spot in Reno.
Colorado Rockies (1B, 2B, 3B)
Feb 25, 2026; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Colorado Rockies left fielder Willi Castro (3) hits a single against the Chicago Cubs in the first inning at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Colorado has long been the land of opportunity in fantasy baseball. Look no further than last year’s roster and players like Mickey Moniak and Hunter Goodman, who both came out of nowhere to put up seasons that surely helped savvy fantasy players win. Some others, like Brenton Doyle and Ezequiel Tovar, let us down, as they weren’t able to follow up on their big 2024 seasons, so buyer beware when investing in a follow-up. Right now, there are 3 positions up for grabs in Denver, and there are some interesting names to watch this Spring, as the player who is able to nab a full-time gig could be this year’s Moniak.
The suspect list is fairly long, so we will need to comb through these names to see which ones have the best chance to pay off: TJ Rumfield, Edouard Julien, Charlie Condon, Kyle Karros, Vimael Machin, Ryan Ritter, Adael Amador, and Willi Castro. Tyler Freeman is also hanging around, but he hasn’t played yet as he’s rehabbing a back injury. It’s a lot to comb through, and none of them are going before pick 500 aside from Willi Castro (396) right now. This is dumpster diving at its finest.
Willi Castro. He was brought in to play 2b, but he can play 3rd and the OF as well, so if the need arises elsewhere, he can give manager Warren Schaeffer some flexibility. Either way, he’s going to play nearly every day, and I like his chances to steal near the 30+ bases he was able to back in 2023. In camp so far, he’s 7 for 11 with 2 walks and a stolen base.
TJ Rumfield. He’s atop the early depth chart, but he’s never played a game in the majors. He’s looked good so far with 5 hits in 16 at-bats, including 3 homers, with 2 walks vs. 1 K. Keep him on your radar.
Edouard Julien. Will get at-bats at DH, 1B, and possibly 2nd as well. In a new setting, he could get back to a 15+ homer bat. He’s gone 2 for 12 so far with 3 Ks and a walk. Meh.
Charlie Condon. Former top pick of Colorado is hot in camp, going 7 for 15 with 3 homers and 5 RBI with 3 Ks vs 2 walks. He’s a big donkey (6’6″) and could be a complete sleeper this season. I’ll grab him for a buck in NL-only leagues if he keeps this up.
Kyle Karros. I feel like it will be one of these 3 that breaks out and hits a bunch of homers this year. Karros bulked up with winter and filled out his 6’5″ frame. He’s looked good so far with 5 hits in 12 at-bats with a homer, 4 RBI, and 2 steals. If you have a reserve, it’s not insane to stash a couple of these guys in super deep leagues.
Adael Amador. He’s young (23) and has done well at AAA, but hasn’t been able to bat over .200 in two separate runs in Colorado. We can’t write him off yet, because of his age, as he’s gone 4 for 17 in camp with a homer and 2 steals. He’s shown both power and speed in the minors and could eventually earn time at 2B if the Rockies have the need. Jot his name down somewhere, but don’t draft him unless he wins a job.
CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, Italy (AP) — International Paralympic Committee says Iranian athlete Aboulfazl Khatibi will not compete at Milan Cortina Paralympics.
England are playing at Nottingham for the first time under the management of Sarina Wiegman [Getty Images]
England manager Sarina Wiegman says it is "very important" her team remain patient if the goals do not come quickly in their 2027 Women's World Cup qualifier against Iceland on Saturday.
All seven goals were scored in the second half of that match, with England not finding a breakthrough in Antalya until the 47th minute.
They will play in front of an expectant home crowd at a sold-out City Ground in Nottingham on Saturday (12:30 GMT) and Wiegman says it is crucial they stick to the plan as they did in midweek.
"It's very important. That's what we showed on Tuesday," Wiegman told her media conference on Friday on the importance of trusting that the goals will come against Iceland.
"Of course we wanted to score goals in the first half and we did have some opportunities, but the team showed that we could do better.
"We stuck with the plan and everyone kept doing their tasks together. We didn't start doing things on our own because that doesn't help in those moments.
"We just stayed calm, kept doing our task and got some opportunity up front. In the moments where we lost the ball, we won it back so quickly as well. That says a lot about the mentality of my team."
Wiegman, who has led England to successive European titles and the 2023 World Cup final, says the big match experience of the squad is key when they have a frustrating 45 minutes.
England struggled to break down Ukraine's stubborn defence in the first half despite having 40 touches in the opposition box and 85% of the possession.
"It's a bit to do with experience and a bit to do with the environment," Dutchwoman Wiegman said.
"It is about managing the game too and that comes with a lot of experience. We have a good balance in the team with players who really know what to do in those moments."
'We're not talking about Spain at all'
Alessia Russo (left) and Jess Park both scored twice in England's 6-1 win over Ukraine [Getty Images]
It was Alessia Russo who provided the breakthrough for England two minutes into the second half against Ukraine and the Arsenal striker – who plays as a number nine for the Lionesses rather than her more withdrawn role for her club – will likely be the woman tasked with doing the same versus Iceland.
"We knew we were dominating the ball, we wanted to be ruthless in the final third," Russo told BBC 5 Live, speaking about the first half against Ukraine. "They also defended well, then the spaces opened up.
"Scoring early in the second half was important. It allowed us to play with more freedom so we want to use that ruthless edge going forward.
"As long as we are doing our job with our counter-pressure and creating the chances, that breeds confidence. If the goal comes in the first 10 minutes or last 10, that doesn't matter. We know we can change games in a matter of moments."
"They are a very strong team," Wiegman said of Iceland. "They are very disciplined, very physical and very direct, with a lot of pace.
"We have seen some of their earlier performances, specifically against Spain. We think we will have the ball a lot but it will also be very hard to breakdown their defence."
Only the winner of Group A3 will qualify directly for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil and it has been widely billed as a battle between European champions England and world champions Spain for that place.
But Wiegman flatly refused to underestimate Iceland, who have qualified for the last five European Championships but have never made a Women's World Cup finals.
"We aren't talking about Spain at all at the moment - we are only talking about Iceland," she said.
"We know it is going to be a very tough game tomorrow. They are tough to beat and we will have to be at our top level."
Report: Liverpool ready to replace Mohamed Salah with £87m forward
Liverpool Transfer Plans Take Shape as Salah Era Nears Its End
Liverpool supporters have known for some time that change was coming. The rhythm of football demands renewal. Even the most brilliant chapters eventually close. According to reporting from TeamTalk, that moment may now be approaching for one of the most influential figures in the club’s modern history.
Mohamed Salah has carried Liverpool through an era of extraordinary success. Yet the reality facing the club is becoming clearer with each passing week. The Egyptian forward’s future appears increasingly uncertain and Liverpool are quietly preparing for life beyond him.
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The search for a successor has begun.
Salah Legacy Forces Liverpool Into Summer Planning
Salah’s story at Liverpool has been remarkable. His goal against Wolves recently was his 253rd for the club, a number that underlines the scale of his impact across nine seasons.
The TeamTalk report notes that Salah “broke a 10-game Premier League drought to score his first goal in the competition for the Reds since November 1, though it wasn’t enough to prevent the club falling to a demoralising 2-1 defeat at Wolves.”
That moment offered a reminder of his enduring quality. It also served as a reminder of how reliant Liverpool have been on his output for nearly a decade.
Yet the reality now being discussed across the game is unavoidable. Saudi Arabia continues to loom large over the forward’s future.
TeamTalk states that “with Salah widely expected to depart Anfield this summer, and with TEAMtalk sources making it clear that a high-profile move to Saudi Arabia is in the works this summer, it remains to be seen how many more goals the Egyptian will net in Liverpool colours.”
Liverpool cannot wait until the final moment to act. Planning has already begun.
Diomande Emerges As Liverpool Priority Target
Liverpool’s recruitment team has been examining several potential replacements. Early conversations centred on Michael Olise, a player widely admired across Europe for his creativity and productivity.
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However that path appears closed.
According to the report, Liverpool’s hopes of signing him have effectively ended, with Bayern Munich unwilling to sell and the player himself not seeking a move this summer.
Attention has therefore shifted.
Florian Plettenberg provided a significant update when he wrote: “Since a transfer for Michael Olise in the summer is not considered realistic, Liverpool’s Bundesliga focus has shifted to Yan Diomande. 19 y/o is being monitored, and talks have already taken place.”
He added: “Liverpool are exploring the market for a high-class winger in the summer, as both Mohamed Salah and Federico Chiesa could leave the club.”
Those words reveal the scale of the challenge Liverpool may soon face. Replacing Salah would already represent a huge task. Losing another winger at the same time would reshape the attacking unit entirely.
Price Tag Reflects Rising European Interest
Yan Diomande is attracting attention across Europe and for good reason. The RB Leipzig winger has enjoyed an outstanding season, producing 10 goals and seven assists in 26 games, which equates to a goal contribution roughly every 110 minutes.
Such productivity from a 19 year old inevitably attracts interest.
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Plettenberg explained the scale of Leipzig’s valuation. “RB Leipzig are demanding up to €100 million for Diomande. Therefore, a move to FC Bayern is currently also unrealistic.”
That figure places the young forward among the most expensive prospects in European football.
Liverpool’s recruitment staff are well aware of the competition. Clubs across the continent are watching his progress closely.
TeamTalk confirms that Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United have all monitored him. Interest also stretches across Europe with Real Madrid, Barcelona and Paris Saint Germain keeping tabs on his development.
One experienced scout offered an explanation for the surge of attention surrounding him.
“With Diomande, unlike most, there is no major back catalogue, he has only been playing top-level football for just over 12 months. So clubs are now doing all the work they can on him.”
Liverpool Caution Around Early Transfer Claims
Despite growing speculation, those close to the player have urged patience.
Sources speaking to TeamTalk stressed that reports of a personal agreement are premature.
“As it stands nothing is agreed. The only thing we currently know is that Yan is determined to help Leipzig finish in the top-four before then focusing on the World Cup with Ivory Coast. There is no denying the interest, nobody has. But let’s see how the coming months pan out.”
That message reflects the careful nature of elite transfers. Interest often begins months before any formal move takes shape.
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Still, Liverpool’s involvement appears significant. The club has conducted extensive analysis on the winger and his development.
Everything suggests the next chapter at Anfield will involve change. Salah’s legacy will endure regardless of what happens next. Yet football never stands still.
Liverpool are already preparing for what comes after.
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
Mohamed Salah represents more than goals and trophies. He has been the heartbeat of Liverpool’s attack for nearly a decade. Watching him leave would mark the end of one of the club’s most remarkable eras.
Many fans accept that moment may be approaching. Time moves on and elite footballers rarely remain forever. Yet replacing a player who has scored more than 250 goals is a challenge that few clubs navigate smoothly.
The idea of bringing in Yan Diomande will excite supporters who follow European football closely. Young, explosive wide forwards fit Liverpool’s recruitment philosophy. Leipzig has produced several players who have successfully transitioned into elite environments.
At the same time, fans will question whether any single signing can fill Salah’s boots. Liverpool’s success under Jurgen Klopp and now Arne Slot has been built on collective strength rather than individual dependency.
Supporters would likely welcome Diomande as part of a broader evolution of the attack. If Salah departs and Federico Chiesa also moves on, Liverpool will need fresh energy across the forward line.
For many on Merseyside the key question is simple. Replace Salah with ambition and intelligence, not panic.
Liverpool’s recruitment team has earned trust in recent years. Fans will hope that continues when one of the club’s greatest modern players finally moves on.
Buffon praises Palestra and Kayode, says Verratti’s return would not ‘upset’ Italy players
Italy’s Delegation Chief Gigi Buffon says Marco Palestra and Michael Kayode have impressed him this season and hits at Marco Verratti’s return: ‘His call-up wouldn’t upset the players.’
Buffon, Italy’s Delegation Chief since 2023, played a role in appointing Gennaro Gattuso as Italy’s head coach in June last year.
Buffon confident ahead of Italy’s World Cup play-off
“There are coaches who are suited to certain historical moments. Rino was the right person at that moment: he’s empathetic,” Buffon said.
“He knows how to build relationships with players in an authentic, immediate way. He can foster a sense of belonging and group identity, which is always the best thing. The thing that helps you overcome obstacles, especially in the national team. The players well receive every opinion, judgment, and every thought of his, because he has experience in the dressing room.”
Italy have missed out on World Cup qualification in 2018 and 2022 and are once again involved in the play-off to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
On March 26, they’ll face Northern Ireland in the play-off semifinal, with the potential final against Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Italy will play the semifinal at home in Bergamo and the final away in Wales or Bosnia.
Buffon hit back at criticism and looked confident ahead of the play-offs.
“Let’s write down some names: we are an ultra-competitive group for levels higher than what a play-off should be. We’ll go into a playoffplay-offeople like Donnarumma, Dimarco, Bastoni, Calafiori, Barella, Tonali, Retegui, Kean and Pio Esposito. I mean, how can Italy not go through? I struggle to see it,” he said.
“Then, maybe, it could happen for a third time, but at least I’d get there feeling calm, knowing that this is the reality. Then the pitch might prove us wrong, because once you are out there, a lot of other things can happen.”
Some young Italian players, including Niccolò Pisilli, Marco Palestra and Antonio Vergara, are having a good season in Serie A, but will they find a spot in the team for such crucial games this month?
“Regardless of age, the national team is for those who deserve it. Of course, you need a certain core group; you get nowhere without one. You have to know how to use young players without burdening them with responsibilities. You must take fearlessness from young players. No one can talk about this more than I. My first appearance for Italy was in a World Cup play-off. But if you asked me now: ‘Did you realise how important the match was?’ I didn’t know a damn thing! I walked onto the field in the snow, and I was just happy to play. I told myself: go out there and enjoy it.
“A big surprise has been Palestra; he’s shown something extraordinary. Another one who’s doing well is Kayode. Vergara, too, definitely catches your attention.”
On the other hand, Italy veteran Verratti, 33, is expected to be called up, returning to the national team for the first time in nearly three years.
“Marco has always been someone who is highly appreciated in the dressing room; everyone has always had a soft spot for him,” Buffon said.
“His call-up wouldn’t upset the players. Also, because his technical quality is so high that everyone immediately recognises his unique leadership.”
Lastly, Buffon spoke about the recent incident involving Alessandro Bastoni in the Inter-Juventus match and the use of VAR.
BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Alessandro Bastoni of Italy in action during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
“We spoke, and I found the whole thing a bit excessive; inevitably, the situation will die down. He’s paying far more than his actual share of the blame,” Buffon said.
“Inter-Juve confirmed that VAR is indispensable and makes you realise it must intervene in precise situations like the Kalulu incident. How can it not intervene in such a serious mistake? Who could have come up with something like that? It’s a procedure that drives you crazy. If you prevent a huge mistake, you’re helping the game of football, not harming it.
“Whoever came up with such a rule certainly isn’t a genius. There’s also something to review about physical contact: not every touch is a foul. People who have played football can help referees. There has to be a dialogue between the parties. If you blow the whistle for every contact, players realise it immediately and won’t help you; they’ll just throw themselves to the ground.”
This weekend, New Jersey’s three Division I wrestling teams will head to their conference championship sites as their athletes try to punch their tickets to tne NCAA Wrestling Championships in Cleveland from March 19-21.
Rider will compete in the Mid-American Conference Championshps in Buffalo Friday and Saturday. Rutgers will be at the Big Ten Championships at Penn State Saturday and Sunday, and Princeton will take part in the second Ivy League Championships at Columbia on Sunday.
Below check out the prospects for the three local teams at their tournaments.
The allocations is the number of NCAA bids that can be claimed at that particular tournament. A wrestler that finishes within those bids automatically qualifies for the NCAAs, while anyone who does not would need to hope for an at-large bid.
We break down the athletes on each team who have nothing to worry about even if they don’t claim a spot, wrestlers who would be on the bubble for an at-large without an automatic bid and the wrestlers who would see their season come to an end without claiming an atomatic bid.
Rider
It was another strong season for the Broncs, who won the Mid-American Conference Eastern Division title for the second time in three years. Rider has never won a MAC tournament title, though, with the last tournament crown coming when it was back in the Eastern Wrestling League in 2016.
The tournament title is not Coach John Hangey’s goal. It’s claiming spots for the NCAAs.
“I want us to have the No. 1 program, but I just want them to wrestle the way we have all year and don’t focus on that,” said Hangey. “Go and do what they can control, look over at the end and see where we’re at.”
“Very, very confident in those guys,” said Hangey.
Will Betancourt (133) and Dylan Layton (149) are seeded within the allocations and have a chance to punch their tickets as well. Enrique Munguia has been up-and-down this season and is seeded fourth in a weight with just two bids, but he is dangerous and was a NCAA qualifier last year.
All three would have a chance at an at-large if they don’t seal a bid, but Hangey would prefer they don’t leave it to chance.
“You want to punch your ticket,” said Hangey. “We have some guys who have done some things that should give them consideration for that spot, but you don’t ever want to put your tokens in the at-large bag, so hopefully we wrestle our best and come out on top.”
James Farina took injured Gianni Maldonado’s spot at 157 and despite limited action ended up with the No. 6 seed. One of his wins came against Clarion.
“We don’t end up with the sixth seed if it’s Maldonado, so it seemed to work out for us,” said Hangey.
Need an automatic bid: Farina, Abdon, Alejandro, Swenski
Rutgers
The Scarlet Knights could bring their entire squad to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2016.
Many wrestlers in their lineup have been up-and-down - often a product of wrestling in the rough-and-tumble Big Ten. Tony White (157) finished strong enough that he is pre-seeded fourth at the Big Ten and is 15th in the Coaches’ rank.
Andy Clark (149) picked up some big wins down the stretch that could have put him on the right side of the bubble. Lenny Pinto hasn’t looked like the blood rounder he was at Nebraska last year, but he’s probably done enough to get a bid.
Oddly, the wrestler most on the bubble is Dylan Shawver, the 133-pounder who was an All-American two years ago and a blood rounder last year. He is seeded ninth in a weight with eight bids.
“I never count on (at-large bids),” said Rutgers coach Scott Goodale. “We’ve been burned so many times waiting on an at-large bid. You never know what’s going to happen across the country, It’s best to handle business. All of us need to perform at a certain level.
“This is just a qualifier. It happens to be a very hard qualifier, one of the best in the country. We have to do some work. We have another tournament in two weeks, it’s better to set yourself up for seeds. Does anybody have to over-perform? Guys shouldn’t let it sit in the hands of a committee.”
Goodale ackmowledged it’s been an inconsistent year for many of his six seniors - four of which have been with him their whole careers. Pinto and Catka joined the Scarlet Knights as transfers this season.
“Dyaln and Pinto have been up and down, but they’ve been in Big Ten finals,” said Goodale. “You hope two, three weeks off is good for them. What (the seniors) have meant to the program. White, Clark, Shawver, .... huge. So many big duals, special moments. You want to see them get what they deserve.”
Pre-seeds: 125: Ayden Smith (6); 133: Dylan Shawver (9); 141: Joey Olivieri (10) 149: Andy Clark (7); 157: Tony White (4); 165: Andrew Barbosa (7); 174: Lenny Pinto (10); 184: Shane Cartagena-Walsh (7); 197: Remy Cotton (3) 285: Hunter Catka (8).
No sweat: Smith, Olivieri, White, Barbosa, Pinto, Cartagena-Walsh, Cotton, Catka.
On the bubble: Dylan Shawver (133); Andy Clark (149).
Need an automatic bid: None.
Princeton
It’s been a terrible, no-good, very bad season for the Princeton wrestling team. An injury-ravaged Tiger team won just four matches.
But the last time the Tigers won just four matches came in 2022-23 when Pat Glory finished the year as a national champion and Quincy Monday took third.
“Nobody remembers your record if you have a NCAA champ and a couple All-Americans,” said Princeton coach Joe Dubuque. “That cures all. The adversity these guys have faced prepares you. Experiences will help us in this tournament based on the type of schedule we faced.”
While Marc-Anthony McGowan (125), Eligh Rivera (149) and Ty Whalen (165) should be comfortably in the NCAA field, Ethan Rivera (133), Matthew Martino (141) and Holden Garcia (174) have all picked up huge wins down the stretch and have made a case for an at-large of they don’t receive an automatic bid.
Because of some early losses, Ethan Rivera and Martino are only seeded fifth. Garcia is third.
Garcia and Ethan Rivera have just two allocations at their weight, while Martino has three.
“I think going into the the Ivy tournament we’re the healthiest we’ve been since the beginning of January, and that’s a lot of the equation,” said Dubuque. “I feel guys are wrestling well. Especially Rivera and Martino have big-time wins, and Holden is coming into his own. I feel really good about where the team is at.
“Again if they wrestle to their potential, it takes care of itself. I think we can bring upwards of six guys (to NCAAs).”
West Ham United could end up sending Tottenham down while staying up themselves, and Opta’s supercomputer has given more weight to that possibility this week.
After West Ham’s 5-2 loss to Liverpool, Opta’s Supercomputer gave them just a 29.52% chance of avoiding the drop.
Tottenham were in much better shape at that point, with a 95.5% chance of survival, according to the same predictions – even with their season already falling apart.
Since then, West Ham’s 1-0 win over Fulham and Tottenham’s 3-1 defeat to Crystal Palace have shifted the outlook. Opta’s updated projections now give West Ham a stronger chance of survival and have raised new doubts about Spurs’ hopes of staying up.
Opta’s survival chances for West Ham have improved, while Spurs’ relegation risk has jumped
Photo by Kevin Hodgson/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Opta now puts their survival chances at 49.53% over the final ten matches of the season, up from just under 30% a week ago.
Meanwhile, Spurs’ relegation probability has climbed from 4.5% to 16.18%, reflecting their poor run of form and growing pressure on Ange Postecoglou.
Nottingham Forest, sitting between the two London clubs in 17th place, have their own worries. They are level on points with West Ham but lead on goal difference and trail Spurs by just one point.
Their chances of going down are currently estimated at 26.88%.
West Ham face the toughest schedule remaining but appear to have momentum on their side. Over the last ten games, they’ve collected four wins, four losses and two draws—a notable turnaround from earlier struggles.
If you looked only at results over the past ten games, West Ham would sit ninth in the form table. While that doesn’t change their current position, it does highlight an upward trend.
Spurs would be bottom over that span while Forest would be hovering above the drop zone in 17th place.
The difference in recent performances suggests there is real hope for West Ham to pull clear of danger—and perhaps even drag Tottenham further into it.
The Bears traded DJ Moore to Buffalo on Thursday, freeing up targets for younger players in Chicago while giving Josh Allen a reliable wideout. These are the fantasy implications of the move on both sides.
Chicago Bears Fantasy Fallout
The Bears are making their plan for 2026 fairly clear. It’s time for younger players to step up. Colston Loveland started that process in the second half of his rookie season. From Week 9 through the Divisional Round, Loveland averaged 65.8 yards on 4.9 catches per game. He was targeted on 25 percent of his routes and his 89 targets easily led the team. Of all the Chicago pass-catchers, Loveland looks most likely to be the team’s “WR1” this year.
Rome Odunze’s role shouldn’t change as a direct result of Moore’s departure. Odunze had no issues racking up routes last year, taking the field for 88 percent of Caleb Williams’ dropbacks when healthy. He could get a slight boost by taking on some of Moore’s underneath looks. Odunze’s 14.9 aDOT was the seventh-highest among qualified wideouts. Because Williams’ deep ball is still a work in progress, Pro Football Focus charted just 57 percent of Odunze’s targets as catchable. A few more layups in his opportunity diet would go a long way in stabilizing his fantasy floor.
The big winner in Chicago is Luther Burden. Chicago’s No. 39 pick often looked like the team’s most explosive wideout as a rookie. Burden was responsible for Chicago’s longest passing play of the year, a 65-yard flea-flicker.
Caleb Williams' 65-yard touchdown pass to rookie Luther Burden III traveled 62.1 yards in the air, the longest completion in the NFL this season, and Caleb's longest completion of his career.#DALvsCHI | #DaBearspic.twitter.com/D5GQjABob3
He also had gains of 40, 37, and 35 yards. Burden easily led the Bears with 2.3 yards per route run. He had the opposite problem as Odunze and simply couldn’t get on the field despite showing elite efficiency, resulting in a route rate just under 50 percent. With Olamide Zaccheaus — an unrestricted free agent — not guaranteed to return for 2026, the Bears are making a massive bet on Burden taking the next step. From a fantasy perspective, this is what a second-year breakout looks like.
Buffalo Bills Fantasy Fallout
Just looking at the spreadsheets: DJ Moore is washed. He is coming off career-lows in:
Yards per route run - 1.2 (68th among qualified wideouts)
Target rate - 15 percent (75th)
PFF receiving grade - 67.9 (55th)
He approached low-water marks in several other key metrics. We could have said similar things last offseason, and they would have led you away from Moore at almost any cost. On the other hand, it’s safe to say Moore’s decline isn’t purely physical. Moore has put several poor effort plays on tape over the past two seasons. Ben Johnson even called out his behavior last offseason. With the Bears slowly stripping away his role amidst turnover at quarterback and head coach, Moore seemed to concede that his time in Chicago was over two years ago. He then played 36 games with that mindset creeping into his performance.
It’s entirely possible that Moore simply tries harder in Buffalo, especially after the team chose to guarantee $15.5 million of his 2028 salary. His 2027 salary will be fully guaranteed in a week and the team handed over a second-round pick to give Moore those many millions of dollars. The Bills are fully invested in a DJM resurgence. That belief will come with routes and targets. Khalil Shakir was the only Bills pass-catcher with a route rate over 67 percent. His 75 percent route rate was the lowest in the NFL for a team leader, tied with Kayshon Boutte in New England. Buffalo’s No. 2 receiver by targets was Keon Coleman, a player they made a healthy scratch on multiple occasions. If Moore is going to revive his career, this is the place to do it.
For now, Shakir and Dalton Kincaid round out the team’s fantasy-relevant pass-catchers. The combination of money and draft capital spent on Moore is a pretty clear indictment of Shakir. The Bills put even more on his plate in 2025 and he turned in a worse season by overall yards and yards per route run than in 2024. Shakir’s aDOT tumbled to an absurd mark of 3.5 last year and has been on the decline since he entered the NFL. The Bills view him as a short-area YAC guy who has been in over his head for the past two years. His efficiency should rise with Moore taking some attention from defenses, but a likely dip in targets will more than offset any gains in the nerd metrics.
Kincaid’s fantasy outlook hinges on whether or not the team keeps Dawson Knox around. Joe Brady is doing everything he can to get Kincaid the ball when he is on the field, but Knox has been a constant hurdle in Kincaid’s path toward a starter-level route rate. The new league year starts in a week, so this question should have an answer rather soon.
It is safe to say Spurs fans were more than a little dejected during their home defeat by Crystal Palace on Thursday [Getty Images]
Tottenham Hotspur's increasingly chaotic descent towards the Premier League relegation zone continued as thousands of supporters left early during their damaging home defeat by Crystal Palace on Thursday night.
Spurs stand one point off the drop zone after interim manager Igor Tudor lost his third game in succession after replacing the sacked Thomas Frank.
Tudor was appointed as a so-called "impact coach" based on his previous track record - but such has been his lack of impact that questions are already being asked about the Croat's future.
Their campaign has been characterised by toxicity, misery and on occasion high farce - so who is to blame for the collapse of a club that won the Europa League last season and reached the Champions League final as recently as seven years ago?
Daniel Levy and the Spurs ownership?
Former chairman Daniel Levy was always the lightning rod for criticism when Spurs struggled, with the 2008 League Cup the only success in his reign before he "stepped down" after almost 25 years last September.
Levy was the driving force behind Spurs' magnificent stadium, but found himself in the crosshairs of supporters for what they regarded as his failure to provide the financial backing to break into the Premier League elite on a regular basis.
Former Spurs and England goalkeeper Paul Robinson told BBC Sport: "This is a problem that has been building over years. You can circle a drain long enough but at some point you will fall in.
"Daniel gets a lot of criticism. Some if it is unfair. You look at the managers he has appointed when the clamour was for trophies.
"He employed 'win now' managers in Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte but he didn't give them 'win now' players."
Former chairman Daniel Levy was a divisive figure who stepped down in September after almost 25 years at Spurs [Getty Images]
Since Mauricio Pochettino's sacking in November 2019, Spurs have spent £979m on players with a net spend of £653m. Only Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal are ahead of them.
Other factors came into play with Levy, however, such as the suggestions he drove hard bargains which saw targeted players end up elsewhere, or players who could have been sold staying at Spurs because other clubs simply would not meet his demands.
Spurs' wage bill must also be factored into the equation, with Levy running a tight ship.
According to the Deloitte Money League, their bill last term £248.6m, much lower than the rest of the top-flight's so-called "Big Six".
Levy can point to financial and structural success off the pitch, but there was under-achievement on it.
He will also be associated with instability, including a revolving door of 12 sacked managers as Spurs reached 16 semi-finals and seven finals.
What his true legacy is may only be measured at the end of this season.
The fact that any straw poll of Spurs fans would end with Pochettino standing in the technical area at the start of next season shows the affection still felt for the Argentine.
Pochettino's high point was the Champions League final against Liverpool in 2019 - but that defeat also marked the beginning of the end.
He felt it should have been the reverse, a starting point, but fractures soon appeared in his relationship with Levy, with Pochettino feeling his wish to rebuild the side with greater glories in mind was not fulfilled.
Robinson agrees, saying: "You look back to that Champions League final. Spurs had a manager who people would walk over hot coals to get back now.
"This was the time to back him with a long-term contract, invest heavily to ensure you stay on that level. Ever since that day the club has regressed."
Spurs fortunes have dipped since Pochettino's departure - could he return next season? [Getty Images]
Tanguy Ndomdole's arrival from Lyon for £53.8m was the marquee signing in summer 2019.
The writing was on the wall in pre-season when Pochettino memorably said: "Sell, buy players, sign contract, not sign contract. I think it is not in my hands, it is in the club's hands and Daniel Levy.
"The club needs to change my title and description. Of course, I am the boss deciding the strategic play but in another area I don't know. I feel like I am the coach."
Just 171 days after reaching the Champions League final, he was sacked.
Since then, none of Pochettino's successors have truly captured the Spurs' fans imagination like he did, both in personality and playing style, which is why he is favoured to come back in the summer.
One question: Would he come back to a Championship club?
Levy's failed line of managerial succession?
Once Pochettino was sacked, Levy's choice of managers was key to the club's trajectory after the high of that 2019 Champions League final.
In many ways, he went for choices many fans would have made - leading to conclusions that it was the culture of the club under his charge that was the problem.
Robinson says: "There is something that is fundamentally wrong at that club. Spurs have decreased the stock of managers who arrived at the club as winners, such as Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte.
"Managers who had won regularly elsewhere didn't win at Spurs. You have to ask why that is."
Levy stood by a revolving door of 12 sacked managers as Spurs reached 16 semi-finals and seven finals, not including the Uefa Super Cup before his departure.
Jose Mourinho was sacked six days before Spurs faced a Carabao Cup final against Manchester City [Getty Images]
Mourinho replaced Pochettino, briefly took Spurs to the top of the Premier League, and was then bizarrely sacked in the week before a Carabao Cup Final against Manchester City.
Nuno Espirito Santo was well down a list of successors when he was appointed in summer 2021. He lasted only four months before he was replaced by Antonio Conte.
The combustible Italian, who won the Premier League and FA Cup with Chelsea, took Spurs into the Champions League but left after 16 months following a savage attack on the club after a draw at Southampton, saying: "Tottenham's story is this - 20 years there is this owner and they never won something. Why?
"The fault is only for the club, or for every manager that stay here? I have seen the managers that Spurs had on the bench."
Ange Postecoglu followed, winning that long-awaited trophy, but a finish of 17th place in the league saw him sacked.
Thomas Frank tried and failed.
The record suggests Levy tried all shapes and sizes of manager - none have truly fitted this dysfunctional club.
Injuries and botched transfers
Frank's shortcomings were laid bare during his ill-fated eight-month reign in charge - but he could point to other factors that have led Spurs to the dark place they currently occupy as mitigating circumstances.
Spurs have been robbed of two key components all season, with the creative forces of Dejan Kulusevki and James Maddison still to appear.
Kulusevski had surgery on a patella injury sustained last season while Maddison tore his anterior cruciate ligament in a pre-season friendly against Newcastle in June.
Dominic Solanke, Spurs' most recognised central striker, was also sidelined for months with an ankle injury, although he is now back.
Son Hueng-Min left Spurs in the summer to join Los Angeles FC after scoring 173 goals in 454 games.
The great South Korean's partner in goals, England captain Harry Kane, decided his career needed trophies, leaving for Bayern Munich in August 2023 in an £86.4m deal as Spurs' record goalscorer with 280 goals in 435 appearances.
Two big proposed moves also went down as Arsenal hijacked a £60m deal for Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace, while Spurs thought they had a deal for Morgan Gibbs-White poised for completion until he signed a new contract at Nottingham Forest.
Big summer signings Xavi Simons and Muhammed Kudus, through injury and lack of form, have not had the desired impact, leaving Spurs rueing those missed deals even more.
Was Tudor the right man?
"This appointment was the wrong one from the start," says Robinson. "They needed a Harry Redknapp or a Sean Dyche to keep them in the division.
"They need a manager who would hand over a Premier League club to whoever - maybe Pochettino - next season.
"Igor Tudor, regardless of how he does, will not be manager next season. He might not even be there at the end of this season.
"I also look at some players who can't wait to get out of Spurs so they can go and play European football next season.
"These things accumulate and now Spurs find themselves in a crisis."
The Jets played Joe Tippmann at guard last season following Vera-Tucker's injury, with Josh Myers filling the center position..
We'll see if Tippmann plans to remain at guard, or slides back to his more natural guard position. Either way, Aaron Glenn and Frank Reich will require one new starting guard, at minimum.
One free-agent guard who just hit the market unexpectedly is former Jets first-round pick Mekhi Becton, who was released by the Los Angeles Chargers earlier this week.
Becton has endured a wild career arc. Should the Jets consider reuniting with him?
The Chargers plan to release guard Mekhi Becton in the coming days, per source. The move saves Los Angeles $9.7 million on the cap. pic.twitter.com/8BxMHJkkfj
The Jets drafted Becton with the 11th pick in 2020 to play offensive tackle. He disappointed throughout the terms of his rookie contract and left for the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024. The Eagles moved Becton at guard, where he played exceptionally well en route to winning Super Bowl LIX.
Becton parlayed that into signing a two-year, $20 million contract with the Chargers in free agency last season. He played poorly again, though he was a poor fit in their scheme. The Chargers may deserve more blame for this failure than Becton does.
The Jets and Becton probably aren't holding grudges. Darren Mougey, Glenn, and Reich were not in East Rutherford when Becton was. He's a player worth considering in free agency given the need at offensive guard.
Moore instantly upgrades Buffalo's wide receiver room. The Bills struggled to get consistent production from their wide receivers. Outside of Khalil Shakir, wide receiver reliability was a major concern for the Bills all season. It got to the point where several of Buffalo's wide receivers were healthy inactives during games last year.
The trade gives quarterback Josh Allen his best option on the boundary since Stefon Diggs was traded two years ago. A trio of Moore, Joshua Palmer, and Khalil Shakir currently sit at the top of the Bills receiving depth chart.
With that, here is Bills Wire's grading of the trade:
Bills trade grade: C+
The Good
Moore gives Buffalo a versatile option on the boundary for Buffalo. The eight-year veteran can also kick inside, running routes out of the slot. He does well at creating separation in short-to-intermediate routes. In addition, Moore has the speed to accelerate away from defenders on deep routes.
Moore has the elements to be a No. 1 receiver in Buffalo's offense. He has eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark four times in his career. Two seasons ago, Moore caught a career-best 98 receptions.
Moore has a rapport with Bills new head coach Joe Brady. Moore had two standout seasons with Brady as his offensive coordinator in Carolina. In those two years, Moore totaled 159 receptions, 2,380 receiving yards, and eight touchdowns.
Buffalo was in desperate need of a dynamic and reliable receiving option. The trade is the first major move Buffalo has made since Brady was named head coach. It's also a signature move by general manager Brandon Beane, finally addressing the deficiencies at the wide receiver spot.
This move should also take some pressure off quarterback Josh Allen. The augmentations to the wide receiver room have not worked out as planned, pushing Allen to fall into hero ball too often.
The not-so-great
While there's a lot to like about the player, there are some concerns about this trade as a whole.
The Chicago Bears were productive for most of the season without Moore as a focal point. He caught a career-low 50 passes (which, in the context of Buffalo's receivers, is solid). Moving forward, the Bears planned to emphasize other receivers (Colston Loveland, Rome Odunze, Luther Burden III) in the passing game. Furthermore, Moore did not fit seamlessly in Ben Johnson's offensive scheme.
With that in mind, it seems the Bears would be motivated to move on from Moore. This, along with a massive price tag, makes the second-round return to Chicago seem a bit steep.
Buffalo is on the hook for the next four years of Moore's contract. Moore will carry a cap hit of $24.5 million for each season through 2029. Moore's cap hit is currently the 12th-highest among receivers in the NFL. However, there is a potential out in his contract in 2027, according to Spotrac.
The Bottom Line
Moore may not put up top-15 receiver numbers this fall. However, if his involvement can help the Bills remain in the top-five of offenses in the league and take some pressure off Josh Allen, then the move will be well worth it. Still, the price tag, along with a forecasted production that may be a fringe No.1 in exchange for a second-round pick, seems like a bit much for this deal. The Bills need to fill multiple spots, especially on the defense, and using draft capital to fill spots, whether through a trade or utilized in the draft, would probably be the more appropriate option for roster construction.
The promotion Friday announced the heavyweight has been released from the company he signed with in 2023 after a months-long contract dispute with the UFC, where he was the heavyweight champion.
The 39-year-old, from Cameroon, had just one fight for the PFL in October 2024, when he knocked out Renan Ferreira in the first round to win the Super Fights heavyweight title.
"The Professional Fighters League has made the decision to part ways with Francis Ngannou. We have great respect for Francis as both an athlete and a person, and we wish him success in the next chapter of his combat sports career. The PFL remains focused on recruiting and signing the best athletes in the sport while continuing to deliver world-class competition for fans around the globe."
Stay tuned to MMA Junkie for more on this story as it develops.
Green Bay President and CEO Bob Harlan at the Packers minicamp on Friday, May 5 2006 at the Don Hutson Center in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by James V. Biever/Getty Images)
No man is more responsible for the current state of the Green Bay Packers as an organization than Bob Harlan.
Brett Favre and Reggie White led the resurgent 1990s-era Packers to a Super Bowl title. Mike Holmgren coached that team. Ron Wolf assembled it. But it was Harlan, the team President and CEO, who truly revitalized and reinvigorated a moribund franchise and assembled the right team of people to make the Packers something more than just the NFL’s Siberia.
Harlan took over as the head of the franchise in 1989. Less than eight years later, the team was atop the football world. His choice to remove any football decisions from the team’s board of directors and install a GM with power over all football operations (Wolf) is perhaps the most impactful single move for this franchise in the last 50 years.
Harlan also oversaw the biggest expansion in Lambeau Field’s history in the early 2000s. Without him, the Packers might not be in Green Bay any more at all. But beyond being an exceptional administrator, Harlan was a kind, approachable, generous man, one who always conducted himself with class and grace.
Younger Packers fans may not remember or appreciate just how meaningful Harlan’s impact on the Packers was. But in the wake of his passing, let’s be sure we honor him and his memory the only way we know how: by cheering for our team.
The Milan Cortina Games are poised to make history, featuring a record 665 Para athletes competing for an unprecedented 79 sets of medals.
Athletes will showcase their talents across six dynamic sports: Para alpine skiing, Para biathlon, Para cross-country skiing, Para ice hockey, Para snowboard, and wheelchair curling.
In the various skiing disciplines – Para alpine skiing, Para biathlon, and Para cross-country skiing – competitors are categorised into one of three groups: standing, sitting (utilising a sit-ski or monoski), or vision impaired.
Those with visual impairments race alongside a guide, who communicates via radio and also receives a medal.
Within these categories, skiers are further divided based on their functional ability, with a sophisticated results calculation system determining a factored time for each athlete, ensuring fair competition across different divisions.
Here’s a closer look at the sports...
Para Alpine Skiing
A cornerstone of the Winter Paralympics since its 1976 inception, Para alpine skiing encompasses five events: slalom, giant slalom, super-G, downhill, and super combined.
A total of 30 medal events are contested, split equally between men and women. Athletes in the sitting category employ a specialised monoski – a seat mounted on a single ski with a shock absorber to navigate varied terrain and execute turns.
The competition will unfold on the iconic Olympia delle Tofane course in Cortina d’Ampezzo, the very same venue that hosted the women’s alpine skiing events at the recent Winter Olympics.
Para alpine skiing is one of the six sports that will be on show (Getty Images)
Para Biathlon
This demanding sport seamlessly blends the raw power and endurance of cross-country skiing with the meticulous precision of target shooting.
Eighteen medal events are up for grabs, with men and women competing in separate races across three classes: a 7.5-kilometre sprint, a 12.5-kilometre individual race, and a sprint pursuit.
Athletes tackle the ski course multiple times, pausing between laps to shoot at five metal targets positioned 10 metres away. Missed shots incur either a time penalty or a penalty loop, depending on the event.
Unique adaptations include coaches assisting athletes with upper limb disabilities in positioning their rifles and pulling the trigger, while visually impaired athletes are guided by acoustic targets that indicate proximity to the bullseye.
Para biathlon was introduced for athletes with physical disabilities at the 1988 Innsbruck Games and for those with visual impairments in 1992 at Albertville. This year’s events will be held at the Tesero Cross-Country Skiing Stadium.
Para biathlon combines cross-country skiing and target shooting (REUTERS)
Para Cross-Country Skiing
Also taking place at Tesero, Para cross-country skiing offers 20 medal events. Men and women compete across the three categories in sprint, 10-kilometre interval start classic, and 20-kilometre interval start free races.
Additionally, there are mixed 4x2.5-kilometre and open 4x2.5-kilometre relays. Courses for sitting athletes feature lower gradients, acknowledging their reliance on upper body strength for propulsion on a sit-ski.
Relay teams can comprise two, three, or four athletes (plus guides), with individuals able to ski multiple legs.
Para cross-country skiing is a test of endurance (REUTERS)
Para Ice Hockey
Born in a Stockholm rehabilitation centre in the early 1960s, Para ice hockey was conceived by physically impaired Swedes eager to continue playing their beloved sport.
It made its Paralympic debut at Lillehammer in 1994 and is contested by athletes with lower limb disabilities. Matches consist of three 15-minute periods.
Players use double-blade sledges, allowing the puck to slide underneath, and wield two sticks – one with a spike for propulsion and the other with a blade for puck handling.
While a mixed-gender sport, only Japan and Slovakia feature a female player in their Milan Cortina squads.
Historically, only three women have ever participated in the Paralympic Games for Para ice hockey: Norway’s Brit Mjaasund Oeyen (1994) and Lena Schroeder (2018), and China’s Yu Jing (2022).
The United States, having dominated five of the last six Winter Paralympics (with Canada breaking their streak in 2006), will be aiming for a three-peat.
Competition will be held at Milan’s new Santagiulia arena, featuring eight teams divided into two groups, with the top two from each advancing to the semi-finals.
The stage is set for para ice hockey (Getty Images)
Para Snowboard
Para snowboard first appeared at Sochi in 2014 as part of the alpine skiing programme, with the number of events varying since.
At Milan Cortina, there are two events across three men’s categories (two for lower-limb impairments, one for upper-limb) and one women’s category (lower-limb impairments).
Athletes with disabilities affecting their legs can use prosthetics or modified equipment. The two events, banked slalom and snowboard cross, will take place in Cortina.
In banked slalom, athletes complete two individual runs, with their best time determining the final ranking. Snowboard cross sees four athletes race simultaneously in heats and finals, with the first two across the line advancing.
Para snowboarding promises to be a thrilling spectacle (Getty Images for IPC)
Wheelchair Curling
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this mixed-team event for athletes with physical disabilities affecting their legs was introduced the last time the Paralympics were held in Italy, in 2006.
Players can choose to throw the stone independently or with a teammate stabilising their wheelchair, often using an extender for added speed and direction.
It is the 20th anniversary of wheelchair curling at the Paralympics (AP)
Games consist of eight ends, two fewer than Olympic curling, and sweeping is not permitted.
The Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium will host the competition, which for the first time will include a mixed doubles event alongside the traditional mixed team format.
MUNICH, GERMANY - FEBRUARY 17: Lennart Karl of FC Bayern Muenchen during a training session at Säbener Straße on February 17, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by S. Mellar/FC Bayern via Getty Images) | FC Bayern via Getty Images
It cannot be emphasized enough just how surprising Lennart Karl’s phenomenal rise to prominence at Bayern Munich has been. In the 2024/25 season, he went through the U-17 age group to the U-19 age group. He then proceeded to skip the U-23s entirely or even the need for a loan move as he sensationally burst onto the scene in the 2025/26 season.
Bayern fans will know all this, but it is perhaps easy to get desensitized to how remarkable this progression is after multiple months of Karl brilliance and get frustrated when inevitable slight regressions occur. It is always nice to retain perspective.
Bayern’s CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen certainly still appreciates Lennart Karl’s rise to the first team:
“Lennart has been performing extremely well at 17 and has shown that he’s not afraid of competition,” Dreesen told German news site Bild Sport, as captured by @iMiaSanMia. “He knows what he has at FC Bayern, he knows he’s at one of the biggest clubs in the world. Whoever manages to establish himself here can make it everywhere and has a brilliant future. He has a long term contract with us until 2029. I’m optimistic regarding the future.”
The comments about Karl being able to establish himself everywhere may cause some Bayern fans to tense up, given Karl’s now infamous Real Madrid dream, but Dreesen knows not to concern himself with that right now. For now, Karl is exceeding all expectations at Bayern and will do so for many years to come.
The global representative organisation for professional footballers, FIFPRO, has urged governing bodies responsible for the 2026 Women’s Asian Football Confederation Cup to protect the Iran national team after they were labelled “wartime traitors” by an Iranian state television presenter.
Both FIFA, world football’s governing body, and the AFC have been called upon to “undertake all necessary steps to ensure the safety of Iran’s Women’s National Team players”.
The Iran women’s national football team players did not sing their national anthem before their Asian Cup opener against South Korea in Australia earlier this week.
Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting presenter Mohammad Reza Shahbazi said in a video that the players showed a lack of patriotism and their actions amounted to the “pinnacle of dishonour” in footage circulating widely on social media.
“Let me just say one thing: traitors during wartime must be dealt with more severely,” Shahbazi said.
“Anyone who takes a step against the country under war conditions must be dealt with more severely. Like this matter of our women’s football team not singing the national anthem … these people must be dealt with more severely.”
In a statement released on the social media platform X, FIFPRO released a strong and lengthy statement outlining its concerns.
“In addition to the dangerous situation the players would face if they return to Iran following the tournament, FIFPRO Asia/Oceania is deeply concerned by reports that Iranian state television has publicly attacked the members of the team for remaining silent during the national anthem before their opening match,” the statement read.
“Footage circulating online shows Mohammad Reza Shahbazi, a state TV presenter, calling for them to face the ‘stigma of dishonour and betrayal’.
“These statements significantly heighten concerns for the players’ safety should they return to Iran after the tournament.
“FIFPRO Asia/Oceania has once again written to the AFC and FIFA, calling on them to uphold their human rights obligations under the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and FIFA’s Human Rights Policy and protect the players.
“We call on the AFC and FIFA to urgently engage with the Iranian Football Association, the Australian Government and all other relevant authorities to ensure that every effort is made to protect the safety of the players.”
The Iranian players stood in silence when Iran’s anthem was played at the Gold Coast ahead of their 3-0 opening loss to South Korea on Monday, though they sang and saluted before a 4-0 defeat by hosts Australia three days later.
The Reuters news agency has contacted both the Asian Football Confederation, the Iranian football federation and the team at the Asian Cup for comment.
Ahead of their game against Australia, Iran forward Sara Didar fought back tears and spoke about the war, while coach Marziyeh Jafari said her players were doing their best to focus on the tournament despite concern for their families back home.
Iran face the Philippines on Sunday in their final group match.
The Chargers have upgraded their offensive line, agreeing to a three-year, $30 million contract with former Commanders center Tyler Biadasz.
Biadasz brings 84 career starts of experience to Los Angeles. Known for consistent pass protection, he allowed zero quarterback hits on 521 pass-blocking snaps during his 2025 campaign, ranking as Pro Football Focus' 11th-best center.
This signing solves a major vacancy in L.A. following the retirement of Bradley Bozeman. By landing a reliable starter before the official start of free agency, the Bolts secure a crucial piece for their 2026 season.
Selected in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of the University of Wisconsin, Biadasz was a staple for the Cowboys, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2022. He started 31 games over two seasons in Washington.
In a funny clip making the rounds on Golf Twitter, several San Francisco 49ers players are striking, um, interesting poses around a tree while on vacation in Cabo. Turns out, their WAGs had given them a choice: If they wanted to play golf, they had to "pose on this tree like it's the cover of Vogue."
Not surprisingly, the results were hilarious. Have a look:
Looking fierce, guys. Did we detect a "Blue Steel" in there?
Also not surprisingly? The fact that these guys went along with this. We'd say we hope it was worth it, but a round of golf with the boys always is.
Yul Moldauer offers no excuses for the 16-month whereabouts suspension he received from the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency for missing three drug tests in 2024.
That didn't make looking at his mentions on social media any easier for a gymnast who has a national title, two world championship medals and an Olympic appearance on his resume.
“I've read everything online, ‘Maybe Yul was doing drugs,’” Moldauer said. “I have more than 10 years of being clean. It sucks. But at the end of the day, it's my responsibility.”
While Moldauer points out all three of the tests he missed came during the competition season — when schedules can get hectic — and that he successfully passed spot tests in between the misses, he also knows that it doesn't matter. He knew the rules and he got sloppy.
“It's just embarrassing,” he said.
And now, it's over. Moldauer will return to international competition for the first time in two years on Saturday when he competes as part of Team USA at the reimagined American Cup in Henderson, Nevada, just outside Las Vegas.
The event — which will use the mixed team format that will likely make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games — includes 43 gymnasts from a dozen countries, led by Olympic and world champion Daiki Hashimoto of Japan and Hezly Rivera, the reigning U.S. champion and a member of the star-laden American team that won gold at the 2024 Paris Games.
It's a particularly stacked field, one that Moldauer is grateful to be a part of after the 29-year-old's long, winding path back from the brink.
The suspension banned Moldauer from working out at USA Gymnastics-affiliated gyms. It also cast him adrift.
“I was a little lost, I was not myself,” he said. “I was depressed. I was sad. I was torn.”
Relentlessly upbeat when he's on the competition floor — Moldauer is a livewire when he salutes the judges, punctuating every dismount with a fist pump and a “Let's go!” — finding that spark while eyeing a year-plus away from the sport that has long defined him has forced him to make some difficult choices.
He got a job at a factory not far from his home in the Denver suburbs, requesting a schedule that would let him work a full day by 2 p.m., which freed up his evenings to train at a local fitness gym alongside weekend warriors, dadbods and seniors trying to stay in shape.
Moldauer knows he must have “looked like a monkey” while he made his way from station to station trying to keep his body strong and flexible enough to do gymnastics without actually doing gymnastics. Leaning into his experience during the COVID-19 pandemic — when gyms were shut down for months — helped.
That doesn't mean it was easy.
“I was walking through hell, being completely torn out of something I've done for 20-plus years,” he said.
Did he think about quitting? Just about every day, particularly when he was about halfway through the suspension. He watched the vast majority of guys he grew up competing against move on to the next chapter of their lives and wonder if maybe it was time for him to do the same. The fear that he couldn't keep pace with a talented new wave ate at him.
One nagging thought kept him going: a promise he made to himself long ago.
“I’ve always had one goal in my entire life and that is to get an Olympic medal,” said Moldauer, who was a non-traveling alternate on the 2024 U.S. men's team that earned a bronze in Paris. “I told myself ‘Ten years from now, if I look back and think about how healthy I felt, do I think I could have pushed another 2 1/2 years (toward the 2028 Games)?’ And I would have said ‘Yes, I should have done that.’”
That was a part of it, to be sure. Yet it wasn't the only factor. Moldauer has long leaned into being a role model to younger athletes in a division of the sport that is seemingly constantly under threat of being rendered irrelevant. If he bailed during his forced sabbatical, he wondered what message that might send.
“I wanted to go out my way,” he said. “I didn’t want the suspension to pull me out. I didn’t want that to be the last thing people remembered about me.”
So he kept going, returning to competition at an event in Colorado in January, then finishing second to Frederick Richard at the Winter Cup last month, a performance that landed him back on the national team. He'll do a couple of events at the American Cup this weekend, then head to Europe for a World Cup event where he might do “a little more.”
Moldauer views them all as stepping stones. His skills are not where they will need to be if he wants to make it to Los Angeles. Upgrades are coming this summer in hopes of making the world championship team.
If there is a silver lining in all this, it's that he's as healthy as he's been in a long, long time. The back and shoulder problems that dogged him earlier in his career are gone, replaced by optimism that maybe his best gymnastics are still ahead of him.
“I feel like my body got a reset, my mind got a reset,” Moldauer said. “And I've got nothing to hide.”
Hull City are confident midfielder Regan Slater will agree a long-term deal with the club, according to head coach Sergej Jakirovic.
The Tigers this week exercised an option to extend the 26-year-old's current contract for a further 12 months and Jakirovic says talks are ongoing about him staying at the Championship club longer.
"We had a conversation and I expressed my thoughts and we agreed and he is happy to stay here," the former Bosnian centre-back told BBC Radio Humberside.
"If the player wants to stay here it is 90% done but it's about finance and I hope we will be able to agree everything."
Meanwhile, Hull have been dealt a further injury blow with the news defender Akin Famewo will be out for a month with a calf muscle injury.
"He went for an MRI scan with a tight calf so he's out for four or five weeks," said Jakiorvic.
Midfielder Amir Hadziahmetovic is doubtful for Saturday's match at home to fourth-placed Millwall after sustaining an ankle injury in Tuesday's defeat by Ipswich, while defender Matt Crooks starts a two-game suspension after collecting a tenth yellow card of the season.
Ricken, however, insisted that Dortmund have no intention of selling Ryerson.
“Julian is an absolute key player, a mentality monster, who also adds incredible threat to our set pieces with his quality. We have no intention of letting him go,” Ricken told WAZ.
“Especially not for such a relatively low sum, given his abilities,” he added, referring to the reported asking price.
Ryerson remains under contract with Dortmund until 2028.
The Detroit Lions may have just watched a potential solution at center come off the board.
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, veteran center Tyler Biadasz has agreed to terms with the Los Angeles Chargers on a three-year contract worth $30 million.
The deal comes just days after Biadasz was released by the Washington Commanders, where he had been scheduled to earn $8.3 million for the upcoming season.
Instead, the experienced center quickly found a new home, and a raise, in Los Angeles.
A Possible Fit for Detroit
Biadasz had been viewed by some as a potential target for Detroit as the Lions continue evaluating their offensive line options heading into the upcoming season.
The former University of Wisconsin standout has started dozens of games in the NFL and built a reputation as a reliable interior offensive lineman.
For a Lions team that values physicality in the trenches, a veteran center like Biadasz could have made sense as a potential addition depending on how Detroit approaches the position moving forward.
Chargers Make Early Free Agency Splash
Instead, the Chargers moved quickly to secure the veteran lineman before the official start of free agency.
The contract, reportedly negotiated by Athletes First, gives Los Angeles stability at the center position as they reshape their offensive line.
What It Means for the Lions
For Detroit, the development removes another possible option at a position that has been under the microscope since longtime center Frank Ragnow retired before the 2025 season.
The Lions have been searching for stability in the middle of their offensive line ever since. According to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, league sources have indicated that Detroit currently plans to roll with second-year offensive lineman Tate Ratledge at center.
Ratledge was primarily a guard in college and early in his career, however, which raises questions about whether the Lions might ultimately be better off keeping him at guard—where he is most comfortable—and continuing their search for a true long-term answer at center.
We got into Jupiter Wednesday 2/25 and stayed through Monday 3/2. Here is a rundown of various discoveries and observations outside of the game reports. This will be a fair amount of surface level observations. I will follow up with a couple more in-depth articles where it appears more attention is deserving. Ask questions, and I will put a little more detail, in comments, where the questions come up.
Getting out of the blocks
Turns out I know a guy (Doc) who set me up to get press credentials with the Cardinals in advance of my visit.
I think the connections were a bit circuitous (he knew a guy, who knew a guy, etc.), but it worked out in the end. They gave me press badges, one for each day (see example above), access to the back fields, the press box and the media room (where Oli does his pre- and post-game interviews). Thank you Doc!
They were reluctant to give me clubhouse access, understandably since they don’t know me, and as a blogger I’m a bit different. They figured out in their research that I’m more a big picture guy anyway, so their reluctance was not an imposition. Overall, they were very gracious and accommodating. Hopefully they saw it as a positive thing and perhaps another avenue to reach a portion of the fanbase.
The media room was populated by the usual suspects. Feinsand. Goold. Guerrero. Jones. A few others I didn’t recognize but will try to get introductions as the week goes on. I’m a closet introvert, so that is not my favorite part, but still a group that obviously likes to talk baseball. Never a bad thing.
In the press room, they pass out a schedule of who is in which group and which group is on which field doing which drill. They certainly keep them moving. Lots of small print. Sometimes in the details there is a story lurking.
The construction
I’ll touch on this lightly since there has already been lots put out about the improvements at RDS. Mostly things that might be helpful to people heading down later this month. There is lots of new square footage added for player development work. Their new hitting building is enormous. I got to see the Trajekt machine in operation as Walker was prepping for the Astros game. It is very realistic. That part of the complex is a no fans area right now.
Access to the quads (backfields 2-5) is temporarily (for fans) re-routed through the Marlins side, using the Marlins entrance to their quads. It is a bit of a trek. FYI, they closed up that access at noon. I don’t know if that will continue deeper into spring. Fields 1 and 6 were largely inaccessible to fans. It appears due to the hangover in construction work (there are certainly punch list items and clean-up to be done yet), so I’m hopeful access to the fields the MLBers work out on will be restored for fans by next spring.
The camp – day#1
With the orientation I got and getting settled, I didn’t get a lot of time on the back fields on the first day.
The MLB players were almost all working out inside the stadium. I did not go watch. Fans can buy early entrance to RDS on home games and see the MLBers take BP. I focused on the back fields. All the MiLBers are in, so the camp itself is in the neighborhood of 240 players! 40-man roster, plus 28-ish NRIs, plus 165 MiLB roster guys plus a few more development guys. Lots to watch. Not many names on back of MiLB jerseys yet, so hard to discern who is who. The groups are telling. As are the uniform numbers and names (or lack of).
If you wonder how exactly they fit 165 two-digit numbers on MiLB unis, there are lots of guys with duplicate numbers.
I looked but didn’t see Raniel Rodriguez on the back fields. I guessed he might be in the stadium working with the MLBers, but not sure. He was not listed anywhere on the schedule, on either the MiLB or MLB sides. Here is a sample of the MiLB schedule from a different day. Lots going on. It is quite a logistical challenge.
I watched Deniel Ortiz take BP. Nice stroke. Nice sound coming off the bat. Mautz and McGreevy threw bullpens today. Honeyman was out there. Perhaps he is past the injury woes that plagued him.
The camp – day#2
Couple of guys on the rehab track got BP sessions in. Saw B. Holiday with P. Graham. Graham threw some breaking balls, so he must be further along. Watched Ethan Young throw in live BP. Seems to have a pretty live sinker. No tech on his field, so I didn’t see the Trackman read outs on it. You get VEB bucks if you can answer the trivia question of “Who is Ethan Young?”
Watched May throw a sim game, opposed by Bradt. The tech readings seemed pretty strong for early spring. Velo 96-98, horizontal break on his breaking pitch got up to -27”. His change had good fade, too. Herrera was his catcher. They had runners on most of the time (so May was out of the stretch most of the time). They worked Ivan in the running game pretty hard. Bradt had good stuff, too. Consistent 96 with sharp slider. Command is a work in progress, particularly with pitches on the inner half. An uncomfortable AB for the hitters. Walker, Scott, Moore, Prieto were the hitters.
MLB has a reference card on ABS. A good read. One thing I did not know. If a manager wants to challenge the results of a play AND there is a challenge on the ball/strike call, the ball/strike must come first. They can’t ask for an ABS challenge after a ruling on a play in the field that results challenge.
Today, I discovered an additional info sheet in the RDS pressbox that listed “minor league extras” for today’s game. Sure enough, I find Raniel Rodriguez on it. He doesn’t appear anywhere else in the lists. He seems like the rare guy we had in High School football who was a freshman but worked out with Varsity.
On the business side, I hear a lot of comments that the crowds aren’t what they used to be. To-date, the Cardinals are well ahead of the Grapefruit League average attendance, with almost 4,000 per game, versus ~3,200 on the road. Today’s 4,600 will boost that. Fair number of Mets fans here, though.
The camp – day#3
Saturday. Marlin’s home game, so I head down to the Marlin’s clubhouse to get a Marlin’s authorized press box credential. The Marlins had sent me an email with some very specific instructions, all of which were incorrect, so there was a bit of a run-around there. They got it all figured out in good time. I’m getting my steps in!
Lots going on today. Watched a Cinjtje bullpen. Lots to like. Dobbins had a “live BP”. He looked comfortable. Oli talked in the pre-game that they are keeping him in the backfields just for protection because there are still things (like covering first) that they don’t want him doing yet. The pitching side is coming along, although they are intentionally bringing him along more slowly.
The MLB group (29 non-pitchers if anyone is counting) went through an “execution game” where they set up situations and awarded points for hitters taking (and executing the correct approach). Ex. 1st and 3rd, 1 out, infield back. What do they want out of that hitter? And then if the infielders creep in just before the pitched, does the hitter recognize and switch to the new, correct approach? One point if he does. Competitors being competitors, they took it seriously and argued pretty much everything. Lots of hooting and hollering. Spring fun. More on that tomorrow.
Got a peek in at a bullpen by Franklin, while trying to watch Doyle and Fajardo in live BP against Levenson, Mendlinger, Madris, Peete, Gazdar and Ledbetter.
Fitts and Zimmerman threw bullpens, as well. I see on the schedule that Lin was to throw off the NewtForce mound (which is inside the MiLB batting cage building). I have inquired about what this is, exactly. On Franklin, I’ve seen some pundits suggest he might be the steal of the 2025 draft, or something like that. Watching him throw BP, I can see why someone might say that.
Camp day#4
Today is not a total quiet day, but close. The MiLBers have the full day off, so the back fields are closed down. Some scrimmage action on the MLB side for guys not playing today. A bit of a dreary morning, giving away to clearing skies and cooling into the 70’s.
The press conference announcing Oli’s extension took center stage. Quite a few players attended and applauded. Some will poo-poo culture and chemistry. I get it. Performance and wins count. That said, trying to incorporate winning habits requires some degree of culture that is not tolerant of mediocrity, incomplete effort or lack of attention to details. I get that, too. In the firefighting world I live and work in, minor failures in execution can get people hurt.
Oli described this morning that they expect players to take pride at being really good at the mundane things (I had used PFP as an example). In my view, one guy at the top doesn’t set that tone alone, it’s got to be throughout the org. Coaches, top players, etc. He talked about the fun the players had in the execution game yesterday as another example. One team won 17-16 in a very spirited competition with lots of hooting and hollering. Brotherly love, we used to call it. Inside all of that, you could hear whispers of the culture … when Brant Brown awarded an execution point for a guy who tried to hit a groundball in a GB situation (runner on third, fielders back, 1 out). The young hitter actually hit a laser about 3 feet off the ground that was caught. Burleson was quick to observe that everyone had the right intent, the point was to execute perfectly. Sort of out of Yoda’s Master Jedi playbook. “Either do, or do not. There is no try”. I’d put Pages, Nootbaar and Burleson as the vocal leaders of this group. Oli says they are all close knit. He described it as it seems to be because they are in the same boat and realize they will be together for a while.
Camp Day#5
Last day. Will wander the backfields as a fan only. Using only my eyes. I won’t be at the game today and will stay out of the press room. I need to get some more pics. Do our readers like the kind of pics I’m putting in here? I’m no photographer.
This catcher appears set to start at High-A. I don’t think he will end there.
As compared to the last couple of years, you can definitely see/hear/feel the presence of more coaches, trainers and technicians. Perceptibly more instruction in Spanish this year as well. Both, I thought, were pretty noticeable.
More players were wearing “wearable” tech. The visible ones were all not pitchers. Catapault wearable technology as shown below…
Watched what I expect to be the AA rotation do some PFP type drills. Noted Doyle and Lin in this group. Will Cinjtje be here, too, or AAA?
I watched Won-Bin Cho hit for a bit. Man, there are a lot of left-handed hitters in these parts. He is starting to fill out. I am very curious about him. This will be a big year for him.
One last thought. Today, I wandered through the Marlins side just to get a sense of how the other half lives. I thought the differences were noticeable. Maybe even almost stark. Across 6 fields, all I saw were a handful of guys taking BP under the mobile cages. Since the trek in and out is lengthy, this was more than just a point-in-time view. Didn’t see a single Trackman device, iPad, or anything like that. No tech guys running around setting up cameras. Just coaches throwing BP pitches from behind the L screen. Not even many guys out shagging balls or working on fielding skills. In the end, it seemed like the Marlins side had a tech and organizational feel more akin to high school than the Cardinals side. Interesting how different the approaches are.
That a rundown of what my eyes took in. More detail next week.
Although it hasn’t been officially announced, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce is expected to return to the team next year.
According to Haley Lewis and ESPN’s Chiefs reporter Nate Taylor.
“Seems like both parties are having great conversations. I can’t imagine Kelce being someone to screw his team over by not letting them know,” said Lewis.
She continued, “We're this far and this close to the new league year, it kind of points to him being able to come back." Taylor agrees.
“He’s coming back, guys,” he said on 96.5 The Fan on Wednesday, “Every indication I’ve gotten is that Travis Kelce is looking forward to coming back. When we’ll know that for sure, that’s really his prerogative.”
Taylor continued, “I know some people are like, ‘If he hasn’t really signed before free agency starts, how does that affect free agency?’ I’m like, ‘Eh, it doesn’t really affect free agency. They can allocate that money however they want.’”
Although Kelce may return, Taylor cautioned Chiefs fans to have realistic expectations about this year’s team, especially with Patrick Mahomes coming off an injury and new players being added to the team.
“What you get in 2026 you hope is a lot better than what you got in 2025,” he said. “If the quarterback comes through the 2026 season healthy, hopefully you got a crew that’s ready to go in 2027 that’s young, that’s youthful, that reminds you of what you saw in 2022 and 2023, even if Travis Kelce isn’t around for the ’27 season.”
Japan's path to defending its World Baseball Classic title began Friday. And if the result was any indication, a back-to-back champion is certainly a possibility.
As Japan took down Chinese Taipei to open its WBC play, Shohei Ohtani simply did Shohei Ohtani things, stepping up to the big moment as he always has.
While he isn't pitching in the tournament, the four-time MVP and two-time World Series champion put on a show at the dish — including a grand slam. Japan wound up utilizing the WBC mercy rule vs. Chinese Taipei, ending the game in seven innings.
Here's a look at Ohtani's huge day at the plate against Chinese Taipei to open the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
Ohtani, who last appeared in a meaningful game in Game 7 of the 2025 World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays, picked up where he left off. While Chinese Taipei's pitching staff wasn't exactly among the best in the 2026 WBC, the Los Angeles Dodgers slugger showed no signs of a sluggish start to the tournament.
Going 3-4 on the day, Ohtani drove in five of Japan's 13 runs, including a grand slam and a double.
— World Baseball Classic (@WBCBaseball) March 6, 2026
Shohei Ohtani grand slam
In the top of the second inning, Ohtani gave Japan its first WBC runs in a massive way. It didn't look like he needed a big swing, but just by poking a ball into right field, he swatted a grand slam.
Japan took down Chinese Taipei 13-0 in Friday's WBC opener, which resulted in the mercy rule of pool play coming into effect. Because Japan led by at least 10 runs after the seventh inning, the game ended in just seven frames.
Outside of Ohtani's strong day, his fellow Dodgers star, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, had a good day on the mound, starting and going 2.2 innings with three walks, two strikeouts and no runs allowed. Red Sox outfielder Masataka Yoshida also went 2-3 with an RBI, while new Chicago White Sox slugger Munetaka Murakami also drove in a run.
With the Las Vegas Raiders poised to select Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick and no other viable starters available in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, veterans are poised to cash in this offseason. The release of Kyler Murray only added to the intrigue in 2026 NFL free agency, which will have another layer once Tua Tagovailoa hits the open market.
Let’s dive into our NFL free agency predictions for where each of the top quarterbacks lands.
Malik Willis: Arizona Cardinals
Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
The Arizona Cardinals would have loved if Oregon quarterback Dante Moore declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. Instead, they will have to go another route to find their starting quarterback. Malik Willis does have some ties to the Miami Dolphins (head coach Jeff Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan), so heading to Florida is a viable option. However, we think his time with head coach Matt LaFleur will lead him out west with the hopes of recreating that success as the starting quarterback for Mike LaFleur. In Arizona, Willis steps into a situation where he will already have an All-Pro tight end in Trey McBride and an excellent receiver tandem with Michael Wilson and Marvin Harrison Jr. Plus, the Cardinals could use their top pick on a right tackle and invest more capital and cap space at running back. The stakes are low in Arizona next year, and the organization provides him with the coaching staff and offensive weapons to potentially excel.
Aaron Rodgers: Pittsburgh Steelers
Michael Longo/For USA Today Network-PA / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
In his final seven regular-season games in 2025, Aaron Rodgers posted a 5-2 record with a 64.3 percent completion rate, 6-0 TD-INT ratio and a 91.9 passer rating with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He demonstrated to himself that he can still play at a starting-caliber level, and Pittsburgh isn’t exactly well-positioned to find an upgrade over Rodgers. He’ll spend a few months contemplating retirement and then he will report back to the team ahead of the summer to reunite with Mike McCarthy and be the Steelers’ starting quarterback in 2026.
We ultimately believe that Tua Tagovailoa could wind up being the New York Jets starting quarterback in 2026, but he isn’t officially available yet. With that option off the table, Kirk Cousins becomes the most viable short-term option for the Jets. He put up a respectable line in his last seven starts in 2025 — 87.5 passer rating, 10-5 TD-INT ratio and 6.8 yards per attempt — so this would be an upgrade for the Jets. He will be able to get the football out accurately to Garrett Wilson, and he won’t get in the way if a young quarterback taken on Day 2 proves he’s ready to step in late in the year.
Marcus Mariota: Atlanta Falcons
Amber Searls-Imagn Images
Because the Atlanta Falcons are leaving the door open to Michael Penix Jr. being their starting quarterback in 2026, options will be more limited in NFL free agency. We do, however, think this spot could prove very appealing to veteran Marcus Mariota. Over the last two seasons, he has posted a 93.4 passer rating with a 63.8 percent completion rate, a 14-7 TD-INT line and averaged 7.6 yards per attempt. Mariota is also a viable rushing threat even in his early 30s, so Atlanta could work that in to pair nicely with Bijan Robinson. Of the few teams who might be able to offer Mariota a chance at starting, Atlanta is the best fit.
Kyler Murray: Minnesota Vikings
Brad Rempel-Imagn Images
This feels inevitable. The only way the Minnesota Vikings had a shot at landing Kyler Murray was if no team traded for the Pro Bowl quarterback and the Arizona Cardinals bit the financial bullet by releasing him. Kevin O’Connell’s dream came to fruition. Murray has been an above-average starter as recently as this past season, and he has shown flashes of MVP-caliber play a few seasons prior. This season is his chance at redemption, and there is no better spot to do that than running O’Connell’s offense and targeting the likes of Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson. Murray will sign for the minimum with the Vikings, and this team will instantly be the buzz of the NFL for the rest of the offseason.
FIFA open ticket sales for decisive World Cup 2026 playoff
The final road to the 2026 World Cup begins
FIFA open ticket sales for decisive World Cup 2026 playoff
FIFA opened ticket sales for the intercontinental playoff that will decide the final teams for the 2026 World Cup.
Tickets now available for key World Cup qualifiers
FIFA announced the start of ticket sales for the intercontinental playoff matches that will determine the final qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026.
According to FIFA’s official website, ticket prices start from 200 Mexican pesos (around $11.50). The playoff tournament will decide two of the final teams that will qualify for the World Cup which will feature 48 national team and will take place in United States, Mexico and Canada.
Guadalajara and Monterrey to host playoff matches
The playoff matches will be held in the Mexican cities of Guadalajara and Monterrey.
The semi-final matches are scheduled for 26 March while the final of each path will take place on 31 March. Each city will host one qualifying path.
Guadalajara will stage matches in Path One which includes the national teams of Jamaica, New Caledonia and DR Congo.
Meanwhile Monterrey will host Path Two, featuring Bolivia, Suriname and Iraq.
Historic opportunity for some nations
The playoffs could produce a historic qualification. Nations such as New Caledonia & Suriname have never played in a World Cup and this tournament offers them a rare chance to reach football’s biggest stage.
The team that wins Path One will join Group 11 of the World Cup alongside Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan.
The winner of Path Two will enter Group 9 where they will face Norway, France and Senegal.
Host cities prepare for the World Cup
Guadalajara & Monterrey are also among the cities that will host matches during the 2026 World Cup making the playoff tournament an early test for stadiums, logistics and fan operations ahead of the global event.
Champions League: UEFA sanctions Real Madrid for racism
Racist incident: Real Madrid sanctioned by UEFA!
Champions League: UEFA sanctions Real Madrid for racism
Real Madrid has been sanctioned by UEFA following an incident during the Champions League play-off second leg against Benfica. A Madrid supporter, caught on camera making a Nazi salute in the stands, was swiftly ejected from the stadium, but the matter did not go without consequences for the Spanish club.
In its statement, the European body condemned the Madrid club for the behavior of some of its supporters.
"Real Madrid CF has been fined €15,000 and ordered to partially close the lower south stand of its stadium (500 seats) for the next UEFA club competition home game, due to the racist and/or discriminatory behavior of its supporters."
North Carolina will have its first ACC weekend series of the season against ACC powerhouse Virginia.
The Tar Heels are on a six-game winning streak and are coming off a 5-1 win over Elon on Wednesday. The win over Elon was preceded by a series sweep of Le Moyne, during which Carolina outscored the Dolphins 49-6.
The Cavaliers are 11-2 on the season and are the No. 11 team in the country according to Baseball America, No. 14 according to Perfect Game, No. 25 in the USA Today Coaches’ Poll and unranked by D1Baseball.
The reason why everyone is split on the Cavs is the departure of longtime, legendary skipper Brian O’Connor, who left for the same position at another powerhouse program, Mississippi State. O’Connor was 917-388-2 with two conference tournament titles, two regular-season conference titles, seven College World Series appearances and a national title in 2015.
However, UVA brought in Chris Pollard from Duke to lead the program, and he has an impressive résumé himself. He coached at Duke from 2013-25 and amassed a 420-296 record with four Super Regional appearances and two conference tournament titles.
UNC (11-1-1) leads the all-time series 192-126-3, but the series has been close with a 46-42 advantage for the Diamond Heels since 1997. The two teams did not play each other last season, and the last meeting was a 3-2 victory for Carolina in the opening game of the 2024 College World Series in Omaha.
Hitting
Virginia has one of the most dangerous lineups in college baseball, as the Wahoos are 10th nationally in home runs and have seven batters with a .275 batting average and six who have a batting average of .333 or higher.
Outfielder AJ Gracia is the headliner, earning All-ACC honors with Duke last season. He leads the Cavaliers with 18 hits, three doubles, six home runs and 10 RBIs. While he definitely has the most pop on the team, he also has a team-high .556 on-base percentage with 13 walks and four hit-by-pitches.
Shortstop Eric Becker is one of the few returning stars from last year’s team, and he has had a solid season following an All-ACC campaign last year with a .333 batting average, seven doubles, two home runs and a team-high 16 RBIs.
Outfielder Zach Jackson, another Duke transfer, has a .353 batting average with a double, two home runs and seven RBIs. However, what makes him dangerous is his ability to get on base and then create damage on the basepaths, as he has a .542 on-base percentage and has stolen four bases this season without being thrown out.
Pitching
Left-hander Henry Zatkowski (1-0) followed Pollard to UVA from Duke as well and has been the ace for UVA this season, hurling 17 strikeouts and averaging 11.8 strikeouts per nine innings. However, he has struggled with command this season, allowing nine walks. In his last outing, he threw six innings and had eight punchouts with only two walks.
Left-hander Max Stammel will get the start on Saturday. He is 0-1 with a 4.22 ERA and 12 strikeouts in 10 2/3 innings over three starts.
Freshman John Paone will be handed the ball on Sunday. The right-hander from Massachusetts is 1-0 with a 2.31 ERA and 15 strikeouts in 11 2/3 innings of work. In his last outing, Paone punched out four in six shutout innings against VCU.
Out of the bullpen, graduate student Lucas Hartman (3-0) is tied for seventh in the nation with seven appearances and has 16 strikeouts — second-most on the team — while Tyler Kapa has two saves so far this season.
Follow us @TarHeelsWire on X and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of North Carolina Tar Heels news, notes and opinions.
If only we could eliminate injuries, the baseball landscape would be that much better. That’s especially the case when it comes to starting pitchers. And it’s even worse when you talk about exciting young pitchers such as Cincinnati Reds ace Hunter Greene. It’s no secret that the right-hander throws with tremendous velocity. Towards the end of last season, Greene has now said that he was dealing with some discomfort, but not enough to stop him from taking the mound.
Greene recognized the gravity of the situation, and he continued to take the mound. It clearly didn’t impact him too much as the right-hander’s ERA in September was 2.64 with 38 strikeouts in 30.2 innings. Hitters had just a .152 average against Greene, and he felt good entering Spring Training after an offseason of rest.
The problem, though, is that once Greene began to prepare for the season, his elbow flared up again. To this point, his MRI doesn’t appear to be too concerning, but it’s likely he’ll start the season on the Injured List, and it’s something to monitor. With that being said, how will Cincinnati look to replace Greene? From a performance perspective, replacing him will be difficult, but the Reds will have to fill the rotation spot. Let’s take a look at the different ways in which they can do that.
Internal Options
Cincinnati Reds pitcher Chase Burns (26) delivers a pitch in the first inning of a Cactus League game between the Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Guardians, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, at Goodyear Ballpark in Goodyear, Ariz.
This is the fun part. There’s a great deal of buzz surrounding Chase Burns, rightfully so, heading into 2026. The talent is there, and we got a sneak peek at Burns last season over 43.1 innings as he struck out over 13 batters per nine innings. He had a 4.57 ERA, but a 2.65 FIP. Initially, he was going to compete with Rhett Lowder, but now they both might have a shot.
A first-round pick in 2023, Lowder has his own set of optimism and talent. The major league results, in a short sample size, have yet to materialize, but he has looked great this spring.
Free Agent
By no means is this exciting, but it’s realistic. Both Lucas Giolito and Zach Littell are still available. They have had some success in the past and can fill innings as needed for Cincinnati with a minimal investment.
Trade
Oct 16, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher Luis Castillo (58) throws in the second inning against the Toronto Blue Jays during game four of the ALCS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images
The Reds are looking to do some damage this season, which means if Greene has to miss any extended time, they can’t take that lightly. It wouldn’t surprise me to see the Seattle Mariners make Luis Castillo available. We also know that the Minnesota Twins are looking towards the future, so trading Joe Ryan could help to jump-start that.
Sean Pendergast has been a staple on Houston sports radio for almost two decades. He currently cohosts the morning show on 610 AM with Seth Payne. He has been a good partner over the years and has always been willing to spend time with us to answer our questions. Considering how close he is to the Texans (he usually hosts the pre-game and post game shows on 610), he seemed like a perfect guy to reach out to get his thoughts on the 2025 season and the 2026 offseason. We started by looking back at the 2025 season. (Author’s note: Sean answered these questions before the Tytus Howard and David Montgomery trades. I’m sure, knowing that would have altered his answers some.)
Battle Red Blog: Looking back on the whole season, did the Texans reach your expectations that had coming into the season? Did they exceed expectations? Underperform?
Sean Pendergast: I picked them to go 12-5, so technically, they met my expectations. Also, on any outlet that I spoke with during the preseason, in or out of market, I said the defense would be the best in team history. So those aspects of the team obviously were right where I thought they’d be. I thought the offense made some improvements in the offensive line, which isn’t saying much considering 2024 was a disaster. The slow burn when it came to the offensive implementation was disappointing.
BRB: Obviously, a lot was made of C.J. Stroud’s performance in the playoffs and his long-term future is probably the most high profile question coming into the offseason. Where are you on Stroud and his future in Houston?
SP: I am still optimistic about Stroud, but not bullish on him like I was after his rookie season. The Patriots game was just a disaster, for which there is no defending. I think what it comes down to is “Do you think that was just a bad day, or was it something more?” The Pittsburgh game is the more interesting one, because he had the five weird fumbled snaps, but also made some sensational throws in that game. Also, he was very disciplined in his approach during the second half of the regular season. Glass half full — with improvements to personnel, the second year in the system, and CJ rejiggering his approach (including the haircut!), I am still hopeful.
BRB: Will Anderson is obviously a huge priority to get signed long-term this offseason. Are there any other free agents from the Texans that you feel should be a priority to re-sign?
SP: I would make sure to bring back at least two of the defensive line veterans at the right price. Sheldon Rankins and Derek Barnett on one year deals appeals to me. Denico Autry, too. Ed Ingram is a big wild card, because I have no idea what his market is going to look like, but at the right price, he obviously makes sense. Also, Tommy Townsend. A capable punter for a few million bucks is valuable.
BRB: The Joe Mixon story is one of the more bizarre stories from the last year. Obviously, none of us knows exactly what happened, but if you had to speculate, do you think it was a football or non-football related injury? Do you think he plays another down for the Texans?
SP: Based on things Nick Caserio has openly said — i.e. he wasn’t cliff diving or jet skiing or whatever — I tend to think that it was an injury related to getting better at football, but perhaps off premises from team facilities, but like most everyone not named Joe Mixon, I have NO idea. I do think he is done as a Texan, unfortunately, because he was fun to watch play.
BRB: Obviously, free agency and the draft are not here yet and we don’t know exactly who will be available, but in general, which positions do you see the Texans targeting there?
SP: Running back, for sure. I think there are at least two, if not three spots in flux on the offensive line. I’d like to see another tight end brought in. In fact, I’m probably open to drafting a tight end with the 28th or 38th overall pick. Getting something aside from a journeyman with upside on the interior defensive line would be great. That probably comes in the draft. Finally, secondary depth is a bigger need than people are acknowledging. Stingley, Lassiter, Pitre, and Bullock is an elite quartet, but the drop off is MASSIVE. Need some good depth.
We want to thank Sean for being such a cooperative partner over the years. He has always been willing to lend a hand and answer our questions. This is just a reminder that you can catch Sean and Seth in the mornings on 610 AM from six t0 ten AM. You can also break down their shows via podcast, watch them on YouTube and Twitch. The conversations will definitely get more interesting as free agency and the draft approaches.
"Devils continue to listen on Simon Nemec, who needs a new contract this off-season. New Jersey would only move him in the right package for a top 6 young forward that impacts the group."
Essentially, it sounds like the Devils would want an equivalent forward talent in return for Nemec. Unless another team really feels it has a gap in the future of its defense and has a surplus of forwards, that'll be unlikely to happen. Still, it's fascinating that the chatter exists at all.
Nemec was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft by the Devils.
He has played in 130 games overall for New Jersey, including 48 this season.
In those 48 games in 2025-26, Nemec has nine goals and 12 assists (21 points). He also has 69 blocked shots.
This is already a career-best season for Nemec in goals and points, and the Devils will still likely have strong belief in his future. But there's at least a chance an offer wins them over on Friday and that future changes.
For years, the Los Angeles Rams steered clear of giving out big-money contracts to safeties. Lamarcus Joyner got the tag from the Rams but never a long-term deal. They let John Johnson walk in free agency, doing the same with Taylor Rapp and Jordan Fuller.
In a span of three-plus months, though, the Rams have signed two of the better safeties to come through the organization in the last decade. On Friday morning, the Rams agreed to a three-year deal with Kamren Curl, paying him a base value of $36 million, with a max value of $39 million.
That deal came just a few months after paying Lake a similar contract, giving him a total of $42 million for three years.
The Rams bucked their own trend of not paying safeties, and it was a wise thing to do. Lake and Curl are two of the most important players in the secondary with their versatility, tackling and leadership.
Curl is especially important as a deep defender on the backend. He can cover from hash to sideline, while also taking away throws over the middle with his ability to recognize routes and drive on the ball.
This play in overtime against the Bears was a perfect example of just how good he is in coverage, reading the quarterback and undercutting the route for a clutch interception to save the Rams’ season.
As crucial as he is in coverage, he’s even better as a tackler in run support and after catches are made. His 87.0 tackle grade was the seventh-best among all safeties in the NFL last season, making 36 stops on the year – fourth-most at his position, per PFF.
And while he allowed 495 yards in coverage, he gave up just 233 after the catch, showing how he limits yardage after the catch.
Across the board, his 77.8 overall grade was ninth-best among safeties, his 87.9 run-defense grade was second-best and his coverage grade (71.9) was tied for 15th.
There’s no weakness in his game and he only seemed to get better as the year went on in 2025.
Not to mention, he was an iron man for Los Angeles. He played a team-high 1,324 snaps including the playoffs, which is the most of any defensive player in the NFL. He never came off the field, which is a testament to his durability and value in the secondary.
By keeping him on a long-term deal, the Rams are ensuring stability in the secondary. He’s a veteran leader who can guide any young defensive backs the Rams add this offseason, as well as the younger guys they already have – players such as Josh Wallace, Emmanuel Forbes Jr., Kamren Kinchens and Jaylen McCollough.
With Curl back and Trent McDuffie coming to Los Angeles, the Rams have already solidified their secondary in a big way. Now, they just need to add another starting-caliber corner to pair with McDuffie, Lake and Kinchens in the secondary, giving the defense a ton of flexibility and versatility on the backend.
A mere ten months after tearing his Achilles, Jayson Tatum is expected to make his return to the court for the Boston Celtics (41-21) at TD Garden against the Dallas Mavericks (21-41) tonight.
Jaylen Brown and Boston (41-21) have thrived without the All-NBA forward. The Celtics lead the Atlantic Division by a game and a half over the Knicks. No doubt the addition of the six-time All-Star Tatum is a tremendous add to the lineup, but how long will it take the team to adjust to his return? How many minutes will he assume? How will he fit in Joe Mazzulla’s rotation?
Conversely, the Dallas Mavericks arrive in Boston sitting twelfth in the Western Conference and looking to snap a five-game losing streak. A bad team that has been especially bad on the road, the Mavericks did get a dose of good news yesterday with the return of Cooper Flagg. The standout rookie scored 18 points in 26 minutes last night in the Mavs’ 115-114 loss to the Magic in Orlando. Tonight will be a homecoming of sorts for the native of Newport, Maine.
Flagg was outstanding when these teams met earlier this season on February 3 albeit in a 110-100 loss, scoring 36 points and grabbing nine rebounds in 37 minutes. Jaylen Brown scored 33 points and pulled down 11 rebounds to pace the Celtics. Payton Pritchard added 26 off the bench.
The Celtics were blown out in their last game losing 118-89 at home to the surprising and surging Charlotte Hornets. As mentioned earlier, the Mavs were in action last night in Orlando, losing 115-114.
Ultimately, this game is all about the return of Tatum and how the Celtics handle all the emotions in the building and his minutes.
Lets take a closer look at tonight’s matchup and take into consideration lineups, injuries, and other factors affecting the line and total.
We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on how to catch tipoff, odds courtesy of DraftKings recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.
After 24 years, the NBA is back on NBC and Peacock, combining the nostalgia of an iconic era with the innovative future of basketball coverage. The NBA on NBC YouTube channel delivers fans must-see highlights, analysis, and exclusive and unique content.
Game Details and How to Watch Live: Mavericks at Celtics
Date: Friday, March 6, 2026
Time: 7PM EST
Site: TD Garden
City: Boston, MA
Network/Streaming: ESPN
Rotoworld has you covered with all the latest NBA Player News for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!
Game Odds: Mavericks at Celtics
The latest odds as of Friday courtesy of DraftKings:
Moneyline: Dallas Mavericks (-1000), Boston Celtics (+650)
Spread: Celtics -14.5
Total: 224.5 points
This game opened Celtics -15.5 with the Total set at 225.5.
Be sure to check out DraftKings for all the latest game odds & player props for every matchup this week on the NBA schedule!
Expected Starting Lineups: Mavericks at Celtics
Dallas Mavericks
G Cooper Flagg
SG Max Christie
SF Khris Middleton
PF Daniel Gafford
C PJ Washington
Boston Celtics
PG Derrick White
SG Baylor Scheierman
SF Jaylen Brown
PF Jayson Tatum
C Neemias Queta
Injury Report: Mavericks at Celtics
Dallas Mavericks
Marvin Bagley III (neck) has been ruled OUT of tonight’s game
Brandon Williams (quad) has been ruled OUT of tonight’s game
Boston Celtics
Jayson Tatum (Achilles) is listed as questionable for tonight’s game
Important stats, trends and insights: Mavericks at Celtics
The Celtics are 20-10 at home this season
The Mavericks are 7-20 on the road this season
The Celtics are 3-25-1 ATS this season / 15-15 at home
The Mavericks are 27-34 ATS this season / 10-17 on the road
The OVER has cashed in 28 of the Mavericks’ 61 games this season (28-33)
The OVER has cashed in just 22 of Boston’s 62 games this season (22-40)
The Celtics are 7-2-1 ATS in their last 10 against the Mavericks
In 6 games since the All-Star Break, Jaylen Brown is averaging 25.5 points, 10 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game
Nikola Vucevic has pulled down a total of just 9 rebounds over his last 2 games
Rotoworld Best Bet
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Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the NBA calendar based on data points like recent performance, head-to-head player matchups, trends information and projected game totals.
Once the model is finished running, we put its projections next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.
Here are the best bets our model is projecting for tonight’s Mavericks and Celtics’ game:
Moneyline: Rotoworld Bet is staying away from a play on the Moneyline
Spread: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Celtics -14.5 ATS
Total: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Game Total OVER 224.5
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THE PLAYERS Championship is one of the PGA’s Tour’s flagship events located at The Players Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass, 110 Championship Way, Ponte Vedra Beach.
The fun starts for fans this weekend. Here’s an ultimate guide to THE PLAYERS 2026 with everything you need to know before you go.
Fan Weekend
Fan Weekend begins Friday and runs through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission and parking is free in the general parking lot off CR 210.
During the event, fans will be able to get first pick on all the merchandise at the Fan Shop, take some swings at the 17th Hole Challenge, a replica of the par-3 Island Green, and enjoy local food trucks.
THE PLAYERS Championship, March 10-15
Practice rounds begin Tuesday and Wednesday; Competitive rounds, Thursday through Sunday, March 15.
As of Friday, tickets for Saturday are sold out and tickets for all other rounds are limited. CLICK HERE for tickets
Gate Times
Gates will open at 7:30 a.m. each day.
Bag Policy and What You Can Bring
Fans may bring bags that meet the following guidelines:
Opaque bags measuring 6x6x6 inches or smaller
Clear bags measuring 12x6x12 inches or smaller
Additionally, fans are allowed to bring their own food in a 1-gallon clear plastic bag, with food items wrapped in clear wrap. Reusable plastic or metal cups (up to 32oz) are also permitted, provided they are empty upon entry. No memorabilia can be brought into the tournament including pin flags, photos, trading cards, balls and other sports paraphernalia.
The PGA TOUR’s full Prohibited and Permitted Items List can be found here.
Multi-Platinum recording artist and three-time GRAMMY award winner Ludacris will headline THE PLAYERS” Military Appreciation Day concert on March 10 at TPC Sawgrass on the Island Green.
The Military Appreciation Day ceremony will begin at 4:30 p.m. on March 10 followed by Ludacris’ performance. Admission to the concert is free with the purchase of Tuesday tickets, which can be bought atTHEPLAYERS.com/tickets.
Parking:
Parking passes for THE PLAYERS Championship 2026 must be purchased in advance online. A separate parking pass is required for each day of the tournament. Parking passes will be digital; no parking will be sold on-site. CLICK HERE to purchase parking to purchase parking
*As of Friday, March 6, General parking for Thursday, Friday, 13 and Saturday, March 14 is sold out.
Free Nocatee Shuttles:
Shuttle Times: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Parking Locations:
Palm Valley Academy: 700 Bobcat Lane, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081 (Friday-Sunday)
Valley Ridge Academy: 105 Greenleaf Drive, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081 (Friday-Saturday)
Pine Island Academy: 805 Pine Island Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32095 (Saturday-Sunday)
Drop-off Location: Nicklaus entrance to THE PLAYERS
Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront Hotel (Newnan Street side) – 7:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 1:30 PM
Marriott Jacksonville Downtown Hotel (On Water Street in front of the hotel at the crosswalk to the Performing Arts Center) – 7:15 AM, 10:15 AM, 1:30 PM
Southbank Hotel at Jacksonville Riverfront (In front of the hotel) – 7:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 1:30 PM
Return Times:
Thursday - Saturday: Shuttles will return to the hotels leaving TPC Sawgrass from 2pm through 8pm in a continuous cycle.
Sunday: Shuttles will return to the hotels leaving TPC Sawgrass from 2pm through 6:30pm in a continuous cycle.
Rideshare
Rideshare services will be available, with drop-off and pick-up at the Couples entry off ATP Boulevard as well as complimentary bicycle and golf cart parking.
When arriving, enter “THE PLAYERS Championship” as your destination.
Follow event signage for rideshare access when entering and exiting the championship grounds.
After the event, head to the designated rideshare pick-up area and connect with your driver to head to your next destination.
Disabled Guest Service
Carts will run from the time gates open each tournament day until 30 minutes after play.
Cart Shuttles will only pick up and drop off from the following designated locations:
Behind 16 green by Couples Gate
Behind 8 green adjacent to the Fan Bleacher presented by Meiomi Wines
Player left of 9 fairway by Wine & Dine on 9
Player left of 9 green
Clubhouse area behind 3 tee
Player right of 16 tee
Player right of 15 fairway at Taste of Jax
*Shuttles will not stray from official route under any circumstances. CLICK HERE for more
Local Flavors: Food Options
From food trucks to visiting restaurants, there are plenty of dining options at THE PLAYERS. Click here for a rundown of the flavors at THE PLAYERS and were to find them.
Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live.
A nation competing at the 2026 World Baseball Classic received an awesome present from global music icon Bad Bunny before taking the field at the global event.
After dazzling NFL fans at Super Bowl 60, the Puerto Rican star is following another sporting event closely. The island nation is competing alongside Dominican Republic, Japan, United States and more at this year’s WBC.
However, Bad Bunny gifted the Puerto Rican players with special cleats before starting their 2026 WBC campaign. Adidas teamed up with the renowned musician to create BadBo 1.0 cleats that were originally inspired by Bad Bunny’s signature shoe.
Puerto Rico has been one of the biggest countries discussed leading into the World Baseball Classic after several players were denied insurance coverages to play at the event.
Bad Bunny reportedly paid for two players’ insurances, Carlos Correa and Francisco Lindor, but their respective MLB teams allegedly won’t allow them to play.
Several other notable players like Mike Trout, Jose Altuve and Jose Alvarado are absent from their national teams due to the insurance claims mystery.
In recent weeks, the Puerto Rican musician has been making global headlines after his epic Super Bowl halftime show. It marked the biggest musical performance in NFL history with billions of views online.
Bad Bunny performs at halftime Super Bowl 60 between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks. Mandatory Credit: Carlos Barria/Reuters via Imagn Images
However, Bad Bunny’s attention can now shift towards baseball as the World Baseball Classic and MLB season draw closer. Puerto Rico has never managed to win the WBC, but perhaps his special gift to the team could inspire the squad towards winning their first title.
Japan hopes to reclaim its glory from the 2023 event and potentially win its fourth championship. Meanwhile, Dominican Republic and USA are the only two other nations to capture titles in WBC history.
Liveprool must make decision immediately on Arne Slot’s future – Opinion
Time for Arne Slot to Be Removed
Liverpool’s humiliating defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Tuesday night may ultimately be remembered as the moment when the inevitable became undeniable. Losing 2–1 away from home is not, in isolation, a crisis. Football matches are often decided by margins. But context matters, and the context surrounding this Liverpool team paints a far more troubling picture.
This was not simply defeat. It was stagnation. It was repetition. It was another ninety minutes that reinforced the uncomfortable reality that the reigning Premier League champions no longer resemble a side with direction or identity.
Under Jürgen Klopp, Liverpool were built on a foundation of intensity and belief. Chaos existed within the system, but it was controlled chaos — a storm harnessed through structure, discipline, and relentless energy. That philosophy carried the club to the summit of European and domestic football.
What we are witnessing now is something entirely different.
The structure that once stabilised the chaos has vanished. The attacking ideas appear mechanical and predictable. Possession is often sterile rather than purposeful. Opponents, even those battling relegation, now appear comfortable absorbing Liverpool’s pressure before exploiting the gaps that inevitably appear.
A team that once imposed itself on matches now drifts through them.
Perhaps most worrying is the emotional temperature of the squad. There is a visible fatigue in this group — not just physical exhaustion but a deeper sense of disconnection. Too many players look bored, uninspired, and uncertain about what the collective objective truly is.
For a club that invested heavily to evolve the squad and build upon a championship-winning foundation, this regression cannot be ignored. If Liverpool are to secure a top-five finish and salvage Champions League qualification, the current trajectory must change immediately.
And sometimes, change requires decisive leadership.
Photo: IMAGO
The Interim Risk and the Need for Clarity
One of the concerns I always held about this managerial appointment was the danger of inertia. Football clubs can easily drift when the hierarchy hesitates to make difficult decisions, particularly when a manager’s tenure has not yet fully collapsed but is clearly heading in the wrong direction.
Across English football we are seeing a familiar pattern. At Manchester United, the possibility of Michael Carrick eventually taking the permanent role illustrates how quickly an interim solution can transform into a long-term gamble. A short burst of momentum can seduce decision-makers into committing to a path that lacks the experience or pedigree required at the elite level.
Liverpool cannot afford that mistake.
If a change is made in the coming days, the appointment of an interim manager must come with strict clarity. Steven Gerrard would be capable of galvanising this dressing room in the short term. Few figures possess his emotional connection to the club or his ability to ignite belief within players and supporters alike.
But that appointment must remain temporary.
Liverpool have already travelled down the road of nostalgia-driven decisions before. When Kenny Dalglish replaced Roy Hodgson, sentiment allowed a legendary figure to remain longer than strategic planning may have justified. The emotional value of those moments was undeniable, but modern football demands ruthlessness alongside reverence.
The club’s future must be shaped by vision rather than memory.
Ultimately, there are no certainties in football. Managers deserve time, players deserve support, and seasons can turn quickly. Yet leadership also demands the courage to recognise when a project has stalled.
This Liverpool team is underperforming. The patterns are repetitive. The direction is unclear.
For a club of this stature, that simply cannot continue.
If Liverpool are serious about protecting both their short-term objectives and their long-term future, the moment for decisive action has arrived.
For me, that moment should come after Friday’s FA Cup fixture.
Cédric Bakambu pays tribute to the career of Paul-José Mpoku
A tribute to his former national teammate
Cédric Bakambu pays tribute to the career of Paul-José Mpoku
Upon the announcement of Paul-José Mpoku's retirement, his former teammate in the Congolese national team, Cédric Bakambu, made sure to pay him a heartfelt tribute.
On his social media, the striker wrote: "Today, I want to pay tribute to an incredible friend, who has just retired after an exemplary football career. Congratulations on everything you've achieved both on and off the pitch, for your passion and commitment. Enjoy this new chapter, you truly deserve it! Thank you for everything."
A message filled with friendship and gratitude, saluting the sporting and personal journey of Mpoku, who brings to a close a rich and respected career in international football.
Friday at Albert Park, home of this week’s Australian Grand Prix, gave us the first real look at what F1 2026 actually is. Not what it looked like in Bahrain on a test track in February heat, but under race weekend pressure, at a street circuit with drivers pushing and teams making real decisions. Two practice sessions later, here’s what we know.
Ferrari came out swinging. Charles Leclerc topped FP1, his red car fast and clean around a track that tends to reward precision over raw power. Lewis Hamilton slotted in right behind him in second. That’s the Ferrari 1-2 the Scuderia faithful have been dreaming about for three years.
Charles 🗣️"I think it will be quite close in qualifying tomorrow and we will work hard to put ourselves in the best condition tonight." Back on track for the 2026 season 🇦🇺https://t.co/vhSJM2F0Idpic.twitter.com/fBSsGahvXh
— Scuderia Ferrari HP (@ScuderiaFerrari) March 6, 2026
Hamilton looked like a man reborn —comfortable, aggressive, clearly at home in the SF-26 in a way that was hard to fully picture before Melbourne. Their early dominance wasn’t just a flash, either. When FP2 rolled around, both Ferraris were still in the mix with Hamilton fifth, Leclerc sixth. The pace is real.
Mercedes and George Russell Look Good Despite Setbacks
Mercedes had a messier day but didn’t panic. Their FP1 was relatively quiet, the Silver Arrows lurking rather than leading. Then FP2 happened. Kimi Antonelli — yes, the 19-year-old sophomore driver — became the first driver to crack the 1:19s barrier and finished second overall. George Russell wound up third. The caveat? Russell locked up and went through the gravel at Turn 3, and there are two steward investigations hanging over him after some pit lane contact with Arvid Lindblad of Racing Bulls. Clean weekend, this is not. But the pace is absolutely there.
Max Verstappen is, well, Max Verstappen
Then there’s Verstappen. He stalled the car in the pit lane before FP2 even got started. He lost a chunk of session time. Then, with 10 minutes left, he clipped the wall at Turn 10 at high speed, went through the gravel, and damaged his floor. He still finished sixth. That’s Max. The car has real question marks around reliability, as Honda reportedly has just two functioning batteries left, and he’s still finding a way to be in the conversation. Don’t write him off because the RB-22 is complicated right now. Complicated has never stopped him before.
Saturday’s final practice and qualifying will tell us a lot more. But Friday’s headline is hard to argue with: Ferrari looks like a genuine threat, Mercedes looks like the team to beat when it gets things together, and Verstappen remains exactly the kind of problem that doesn’t go away just because you want it to.
MADRID, SPAIN - JUNE 07: Raul Gonzalez of Real Madrid Legends celebrates his team's third goal during Corazon Classic Match 2025 between Real Madrid Legends and Borussia Legends at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on June 07, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images) | Getty Images
In a glowing endorsement shared by spanish radio program El Larguero, legendary coach Vicente del Bosque has singled out Real Madrid icon Raul Gonzalez Blanco as one of his top coaching prospects for Spanish benches.
“He is one of my weaknesses ,” del Bosque said. “For me, he is a coach that could be a candidate to train Real Madrid, of course.” He added confidently: “I don’t discard a big career for him in coaching”
The comments, from a recent clip, arrive as Real Madrid remain in crisis. Following Xabi Alonso’s January departure, Alvaro Arbeloa—Raul’s successor at Castilla—has taken the first-team reins amid a challenging campaign and has failed to right the ship in a few short months.
Raul, a Madridista legend with over 700 appearances and 323 goals, spent six years developing academy talent at Castilla, winning the UEFA Youth League.
The SEC is one of college basketball's most competitive conferences again with just one regular season game left. All 16 SEC teams will participate in the SEC Tournament from March 11-15 in Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee.
However, seeding for the SEC Tournament is not locked in yet. Teams are jockeying to have the conference's top eight seeds, which all get first-round byes. The top four seeds additionally get second-round byes and automatically advance to the Friday quarterfinals, giving them a much better chance to win the SEC Tournament.
The defending national champion Florida Gators have clinched the SEC regular season title. Behind Florida, Alabama and Arkansas have secured a top four seed in the SEC Tournament. Beyond that trio, there's five other teams contending for the No. 4 seed with Tennessee having the simplest scenario: win on Saturday and Tennessee will be the No. 4 seed.
The Georgia Bulldogs would be the No. 9 seed if the season ended today. The Dawgs have one remaining regular season game on the road at Mississippi State and could end up anywhere from the SEC's No. 6 seed to the No. 10 seed.
After the SEC Tournament, Selection Sunday for the NCAA Tournament will take place. The SEC is projected to have 10 teams in March Madness, which is tied for the most of any conference with the Big Ten.
Georgia is one of the SEC teams projected to make the tournament field. Georgia (21-9, 9-8 SEC) is considered an NCAA Tournament lock after their recent upset win over the Alabama Crimson Tide. The rest of the SEC has several teams on the bubble to make the NCAA Tournament. Auburn, Texas, Texas A&M, and Missouri are on the NCAA Tournament bubble and are all hoping to earn a few more key wins.
SEC basketball standings entering regular season finale
WASHINGTON, DC - AUGUST 22: Francis Ngannou looks on during the Battle of the Giants Press Conference at The Anthem on August 22, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) | Getty Images
For the second time in his mixed martial arts (MMA) career, Francis Ngannou has been released before completing his contract.
Professional Fighters League (PFL) today parted ways with the former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) heavyweight titleholder, who registered just one appearance inside the PFL SmartCage. That came back in late 2024, when “The Predator” planished Renan Ferreira atop the “Battle of the Giants” fight card in Riyadh.
That performance stands as Ngannou’s lone MMA fight over the last four years.
“The Professional Fighters League has made the decision to part ways with Francis Ngannou,” officials told MMAmania.com. “We have great respect for Francis as both an athlete and a person, and we wish him success in the next chapter of his combat sports career. The PFL remains focused on recruiting and signing the best athletes in the sport while continuing to deliver world-class competition for fans around the globe.”
A return to UFC is unlikely, based on these comments from CEO Dana White.
PFL, which recently retired its tournament format, has a busy spring planned for 2026, which includes stateside stops in Pittsburgh (March 28), Chicago (April 11), and South Dakota (May 2), as well as international visits to Spain (March 20), Northern Ireland (April 16), and Brussels (May 23), among other destinations.
England have not played since losing in the semi-finals of the 50-over World Cup in October [Getty Images]
The England women's training camp originally planned to take place in the UAE has been moved to Pretoria in South Africa.
England were due to fly to the UAE on Wednesday but the trip was cancelled because of the ongoing situation in the Middle East after US-Israeli strikes on Iran prompted retaliatory strikes by Iran across the region.
The tour has been billed as key practice for England before this summer's T20 World Cup. They have no competitive fixtures this winter and have not played since October.
Two full squads will travel to South Africa for a five-match T20 series, with players split between two teams.
'Team Heyhoe Flint' will be captained by England's vice-captain Charlie Dean. The squad includes former captain Heather Knight and spinner Sophie Ecclestone. England assistant Luke Williams will act as coach.
'Team Brittin' will be captained by England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt with former Durham batter Jon Lewis coach.
England's head coach Charlotte Edwards will work across both squads.
There are eight uncapped players across the two squads - spinner Tilly Corteen-Coleman, batters Davina Perrin, Jodi Grewcock and Grace Scrivens, seamers Grace Potts and Alexa Stonehouse, and wicketkeepers Rhianna Southby and Ellie Threlkeld.
The tour will take place from 10 March to 27 March and follows trips to Oman and South Africa earlier this year.
England training squads in full:
Team Heyhoe Flint (coach: Luke Williams): Em Arlott (Warwickshire), Tammy Beaumont (The Blaze), Tilly Corteen-Coleman (Surrey), Charlie Dean (Somerset, captain), Sophie Ecclestone (Lancashire), Mahika Gaur (Lancashire), Dani Gibson (Somerset), Jodi Grewcock (Essex), Amy Jones (The Blaze), Heather Knight (Somerset), Emma Lamb (Lancashire), Grace Potts (Lancashire), Grace Scrivens (Essex), Alexa Stonehouse (Surrey/Warwickshire), Danni Wyatt-Hodge (Surrey)
Team Brittin (coach: Jon JJ Lewis): Lauren Bell (Hampshire), Maia Bouchier (Hampshire), Alice Capsey (Surrey), Sophia Dunkley (Surrey), Lauren Filer (Durham), Freya Kemp (Hampshire), Charis Pavely (Warwickshire), Davina Perrin (Warwickshire), Paige Scholfield (Surrey), Nat Sciver-Brunt (The Blaze, captain), Linsey Smith (Hampshire), Rhianna Southby (Hampshire), Ellie Threlkeld (Lancashire), Mady Villiers (Durham), Issy Wong (Warwickshire)
The Buffalo Sabres tried to get a veteran defenseman in Colton Parayko earlier this week, but the blueliner used his no-movement clause to turn them down.
So the Sabres did the next best thing: They traded for Logan Stanley, the Winnipeg Jets defenseman having a career year. They also grabbed veteran Luke Schenn in the process, which should help in a young locker room that's growing and eyeing a playoff spot.
As the NHL trade deadline approaches at 3 p.m. ET, it's time to hand out grades for this one, along with the details of the deal that went down:
Jets and Sabres trade details
Sabres get: D Logan Stanley, F Luke Schenn (the Jets will pay 50 percent of his contract)
Jets get: F Isak Rosen, D Jacob Bryson, a 2027 second-round pick, and either the Sabres' 2026 fourth-round pick or the Oilers' 2026 fourth-rounder pick.
Sabres trade grade
We have to factor in that it's Stanley and not Parayko here, which stinks for Buffalo. But maybe getting Stanley and some veteran help in Schenn is the better move ultimately? In this case, it didn't cost a first-rounder.
Rosen -- a former first-rounder -- hasn't done too much as a prospect. Bryson was expendable. Trading draft picks is what you do when you've got a playoff team.
And as for Stanley? He's tough and has put together a solid offensive season. If he's not what the Sabres need? They can let him walk in free agency this summer. Not bad, but Parayko would have been better. GRADE: B
Jets trade grade
Given that both Schenn and Stanley were unrestricted free agents, it seems like Winnipeg got some value out of dealing them. Perhaps they see a bright future for the 22-year-old Rosen, and a second-round pick is always a good thing. Also not bad! GRADE: B
17-year-old Brazilian prodigy set for first inclusion in Bayern squad
Bild and Sky Germany report that 17-year-old Maycon Cardozo will be part of Bayern Munich’s senior squad for the first time when the German champions host Borussia Mönchengladbach in the Bundesliga on Friday.
Earlier this week, Bayern announced a contract extension for the Brazilian winger, who has impressed Vincent Kompany and his coaching staff.
After standout performances with the U19s, Cardozo made his first appearances for Bayern’s reserve team towards the end of February.
If he’s fortunate, he could even make his first-team debut at Allianz Arena on Friday night.
Aberdeen striker Toyosi Olusanya knows there is "something special" about Hampden - now he wants to experience it for himself.
Olusanya has never played at the national stadium, having left St Mirren last year before they won the Premier Sports Cup and returned to Scotland with Aberdeen following their Scottish Cup success.
The holders travel to Dunfermline on Saturday seeking victory to secure a Hampden semi-final.
And with their chances of finishing in the top six over, the Dons' cup defence has taken on even more significance.
Olusanya, who is on loan from Houston Dynamo, said: "Every game is important to us but especially the cup. It is something to give ourselves as players.
"Everybody says about last year and you remember that for the rest of your lives, the same as the fans and the club. It means so much to everyone.
"That is what you are in football for, to win games and trophies. If you can do that it would be even better and a big positive for yourself and career. You will remember it, the club will, the fans. Things like that aren't forgotten.
"I have been in Scotland for just over three years, almost four years. I have never played at Hampden.
"It is a very special occasion. I have been there to see one or two of my friends play. You can tell there is something special about the place.
"Even talking to the boys from last year, it is something the boys would all love to achieve again."
With less than one week until the league-imposed March 10 deadline for a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the WNBA and WNBPA seem far from reaching a deal.
Instead of news about the two sides hashing out the final details of an agreement, reports of intra-union frustration have made headlines. Rattling tensions within the WNBPA have recently gotten louder, crescendoing with the public revelation of a letter sent by WNBPA executive committee members Kelsey Plum and Breanna Stewart to executive director Terri Carmichael Jackson.
The WNBPA executive committee, depending on your interpretation, successfully refuted suspicions of discord or merely provided the patina of harmony with a the publication of a statement signed by all seven members.
I think you’re hearing that there is a discomfort with what’s been playing out. I don’t know that there’s a discomfort with what we’re doing.
I hear the frustration. I hear the emotions and the range of them as a result of the league putting pressure on the players, the league dragging this out. The one thing I said to [the players] is they have one tool and their tool is to out wait you.
I went to WNBPA HQ to interview executive director Terri Carmichael Jackson about the split amongst members.
“The one thing I said to [the players] is they have one tool and their tool is to out wait you."
More from that conversation and the state of the union:…
How real is the disconnect between WNBPA leadership and players?
The IX Sports’ Howard Megdal, however, interpreted the executive committee’s letter as an attempt to mask substantive differences within the executive committee, as well as within the player population at large.
The leaked letter, three sources told The IX Sports, did not come from Plum’s camp, Stewart’s camp or Napheesa Collier’s camp. That means, almost by definition, it came from a faction within the PA less eager to settle.
Megdal also reiterated earlier reporting that suggested that Collier’s epic end-of-season press conference was not only aimed at WNBA leadership, but also WNBPA leadership.
Megdal further indicated that the players whose agents that signed the letter recently sent to Jackson were very much aware of, and thus in support of, the letter and its contents. Megdal wrote, “Anyone who thinks that happened without buy-in from the players represented by those agents doesn’t understand how being an agent works.”
He referenced more instances of inadequate communication between the WNBPA and players, sharing:
There are too many examples of this disconnect to list here, but the letter from Plum and Stewart detailed many of them, including how many members of the WNBPA were caught by surprise over even good news, like the OneTeam Partners licensing money that had collected over the past six years. The number of times even player reps have complained privately that they don’t know about the basic functions of the WNBPA reinforce what is now spilling into public view.
Medgal cited further examples of player dissatisfaction, suggesting the union’s goals have not been clearly articulated. He wrote:
The PA, according to numerous members who spoke with The IX Sports, has been unwilling to commit to a figure internally they’re fighting for on things like the veteran minimum, saying instead the final topline needed to be negotiated first. That’s left numerous players unsure of what they’re even fighting for.
On social media, Lexie Brown, the primary player representative for the Seattle Storm, offered an alternative perspective, expressing that she feels she has been appropriately informed of necessary information and asserting her confidence in Jackson.
Similarly, WNBPA secretary Elizabeth Williams told FOS’ Costabile she was unaware that some players felt ill-informed about the union’s approach to CBA negotiations. Williams relayed to Costabile:
I think maybe because the pace of negotiations move faster now people may feel like they’re playing catchup. That’s my guess, but any member can initiate a call or meeting if they want to.
Williams, who was also part of the negotiations for the 2020 CBA, further suggested to Costabile that player representatives have been more actively involved in this round of negotiations.
Was the WNBPA player survey too convoluted?
Medgal’s reporting also raised questions about the survey the WNBPA sent to players last week. He explained:
Two things on this: it is notable that the PA effectively used push-polling methodology in surveying its membership. This isn’t just a question in search of an answer; it leads to a skewing of the actual usefulness of the data for the PA itself.
Megdal additionally reported, “Six people who saw it told The IX Sports it left them more confused than before,” and that:
Another [player] confirmed to me that the survey, even within push polling questions, neglected to provide a positive set of parameters for what players would want. This was particularly concerning as it related to the middle class of members.
FOS’ Costabile, who obtained a copy of the survey, presented an extend example of the survey structure. From Costabile:
The first question of the five-question survey obtained by FOS asked: “Would you accept the league’s proposal of ‘50% of net revenue,’ which is less than 15% of gross revenue in an eight year deal or ask the union to keep negotiating?”
The survey went on to ask players if they voted yes to accepting the 15% proposal, “are there additional wins you believe must come with the 15%?” If their answer to that question was also yes, they were asked to select what their top five additional wins would be. If players answered “no, keep negotiating,” to that question, they were then prompted to answer what percentage of gross revenue they would be willing to accept: 18%, 20%, 22.5%, 25%, or “other.” Those players were then prompted to answer if there were additional wins that must come with that received revenue-share percentage. If yes, they were prompted to identify them.
Of the survey, Sophie Cunningham, the alternate player rep for the Indiana Fever, told Costabile:
I think the questions were just fine. They were trying to allow people to fully understand what this means. If you say yes, this is what it means. If you say no, this is what it means. So, I personally was O.K. with how the questions were asked.
Are WNBA players united in their opinions about a potential strike?
Based on his reporting, Megdal ultimately concluded that the actions of WNBPA leadership—from the lack of transparency cited by agents and then Plum and Stewart in the now-public letters to Jackson to the somewhat convoluted survey to the absence of CBA benchmarks—appear to be those of individuals who want one outcome: a strike.
That’s what someone Megdal described “as a source familiar with the internal process” told him.
Jackson refuted that notion in her conversation with Costabile, insisting:
Nobody wants a strike. I think that is absolutely what you’re hearing. Do I hear division in that? I don’t. I hear players saying they are frustrated. They are disappointed that a negotiation that started early with the intention of having significant progress at All-Star, with the intention of wrapping up in October
WNBPA treasurer Brianna Turner told Costabile, “No one wants a strike. You don’t call a strike because you want to, you’re calling a strike because you have to.”
That’s also been the stance asserted by her fellow executive committee members, vice presidents Alysha Clark and Stewart.
On Wednesday, Clark went on ESPN’s NBA Today and indicated that, “We are at a place where we feel the like the proposals the league has sent haven’t been good ones,” and, thus, a strike remains possible. Clark explained:
As a union, we’re going to use every tool that we have in our pocket to be able to fight and get what we know we deserve. So it’s very much still on the table, and that is something that I think is clear as we continue to have these conversations with our union and the players in the league.
"We are at a place where we feel the like the proposals the league has sent haven't been good ones."
On Thursday, Stewart made an NBA Today appearance and echoed Clark, saying:
A strike is definitely on the table. We’re negotiating for the best deal possible. We have the strike authorization vote ready. Do we wanna do it? No, we don’t, but if we have to we will.
Breanna Stewart on CBA stuff:
"A strike is definitely on the table. We're negotiating for the best deal possible. We have the strike authorization vote ready. Do we wanna do it? No we don't but if we have to we will" pic.twitter.com/JwN7n2cpZ1
In their letter to Jackson, Plum and Stewart sought more information about the league’s expenses and revenue, as least as union leadership understands them, and an analysis of the potential losses players could experience in a shortened or delayed season compared to the possible gains players could accrue through continued negotiations for a more favorable CBA.
Per Costabile, both players, as well as others, can access such information:
Full access was granted to players who made that request following a process that included signing league-required nondisclosure agreements. The entire executive committee now has access to the league’s complete proposals, according to union staff. Players could get full access—beyond summaries that have been provided—to the WNBA’s financial records available to the union following a similar process required for access to proposals, according to union staff.
Costabile additionally reported that, prior to Plum and Stewart’s inquiry, “questions about the potential financial impact of a delayed or shortened season had not explicitly come up from players;” however, she noted that members of the union’s advisory team, many of whom have financial expertise, are available to provide their assessments to players.
Speaking to the AP before Unrivaled’s championship game on Wednesday, Stewart expressed more confidence in the union’s approach to CBA negotiations, saying of Tuesday’s player call that followed the publication her and Plum’s letter:
Sometimes hard conversations need to be had. I felt better after it and know that we finished that call understanding that we’re representing the larger body (of players) and we have work to be done and we’re going to do that work.
Jackson also told Costabile that she spoke to both Stewart and Plum on a separate call on Tuesday. Following Tuesday’s all-player call, Jackson and union staff also held a call with the entire seven-player executive committee to begin to outline the next counterproposal the WNBPA will submit to the WNBA.
Tottenham could become the first 'big six' club to be relegated in 25 years
With three-quarters of the Premier League season completed and Arsenal on their way to clinching the title: Tottenham are now firmly in the relegation battle.
The current scenario is surprising and was reinforced by a home defeat on Thursday evening to Crystal Palace – Tottenham's fifth consecutive loss in the competition. Spurs now only have 29 points and are just one point above West Ham United, in the relegation zone.
The loss to the Eagles has revived old and painful negative records. Tottenham has reached a run of 11 games without a win in the league for the first time since 1975. Moreover, they have lost five times in a row, something that had not happened since 2004.
With nine games left until the end of the season, Tottenham faces a real risk of relegation, thus breaking a 25-year spell without a Big Six club being in the second tier.
More than that, it would be the first relegation for the Spurs since 1977 and the first in the Premier League era. On that occasion, Tottenham scored just 33 points and ended up in the 22nd and last position on the table. The period out of the top flight was short, returning for the 1978/79 season.
Tottenham's Problems
Despite qualifying for the Champions League knockout stages, Tottenham is having a terrible season domestically. Already eliminated from the FA Cup and League Cup, the London team has 17 defeats in the 2025/26 season, 14 of those in the Premier League.
Spurs simply have not won in the Premier League in 2026, recording their last victory on December 28, 2025, against Crystal Palace, their most recent nemesis. During this period, they lost to West Ham, a rival and today a relegation opponent, as well as being thrashed by North London rivals, Arsenal.
With a terrible 2026, Tottenham decided to dismiss coach Thomas Frank, recently successful at Brentford. As a temporary coach, his successor was Igor Tudor, former Juventus and Marseille manager. But the Croatian has not started well and has accumulated three consecutive defeats, bringing the Londoners even closer to the relegation zone.
“It seems strange, but after this game, I believe more than before. I saw something," Tudor declared, surprisingly, after the last defeat.
The problems in defence made the team take to the field against Arsenal with midfielder João Palhinha deputising as a defender. Despite the absences, however, names like Randal Kolo Muani, Yves Bissouma, Richarlison, and Xavi Simons continue to underperform. Today at Tottenham, no one stands out.
Last Relegations of Big Six Clubs
The last relegation of a Big Six club happened in the 2000/2001 season and was by Manchester City, which is still the only current giant to fall in the Premier League era. The relegation occurred during a period of instability for the Citizens in the 1990s and early 2000s, even competing in the third English division in 1998. Although traditional, the club was far from having the importance and strength it has since its takeover.
The next 'most recent' relegation was by Chelsea, in the 1987 season, when they fell after losing a playo-ff battle to Middlesbrough. They only regained access in 1989, when they became champions of the old Second Division.
Following the list, Manchester United last fell to the second division in 1974, marking the end of the golden generation with Bobby Charlton, George Best, and Denis Law. The latter famously scoring a back-heel goal for City against United, which despite the myth did not actually confirm the club's relegation.
The subsequent relegations are even more distant. Liverpool was relegated in 1954 and spent eight years in the second division until they managed to gain access. Arsenal's last relegation is recorded in 1913, currently being the club that has been in the top English division for the longest time.
Nine Finals
To avoid adding to their short list of relegations, Tottenham needs an immediate reaction and to finish ahead of West Ham or Nottingham Forest, clubs that are fighting to escape the last relegation spot. In the 19th and 20th place, Burnley and Wolves will only escape by a miracle.
Tottenham has 'nine finals' until the end of the Premier League, facing in this sequence: Liverpool (A), Nottingham Forest (H), Sunderland (A), Brighton (H), Wolves (A), Aston Villa (H), Leeds (H), Chelsea (A), and Everton (H). Survival won't be easy.
Arsenal see multiple fixtures moved after broadcast selections and Champions League scheduling changes.
Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
Arsenal have had several fixtures rescheduled, with three Premier League matches in April given new kick-off times and further changes possible depending on progress in other competitions.
The home match against Bournemouth on 11 April will now kick off at 12.30pm after being selected for broadcast by TNT Sports. The timing could still change if Arsenal reach the Champions League quarter-finals and are scheduled to play the previous Wednesday.
Arsenal’s trip to the Etihad Stadium to face Manchester City has been moved to Sunday 19 April with a 4.30pm kick-off as part of Sky Sports’ Super Sunday coverage.
The following weekend’s home game against Newcastle United will kick-off at 5.30pm on Saturday 25 April, although that fixture could also move if either side reaches the FA Cup semi-finals.
Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images
Arsenal’s Champions League round of 16 tie against Bayer Leverkusen has also prompted a change to the domestic calendar. The first leg will be played at the BayArena on Wednesday 11 March at 5.45pm UK time, with the return leg at the Emirates on Tuesday 17 March at 8pm.
As a result, the Premier League fixture with Everton has been moved again. After previously switching from Saturday to Sunday following its selection for broadcast by Sky Sports, the match will now go back to Saturday with a 5.30pm kick-off.
There has also been a change to Arsenal Women’s schedule after their Women’s Super League trip to Brighton was rearranged. The match, originally postponed because of torrential rain last month, will now be played on Wednesday 6 May at 7.45pm at Broadfield Stadium in Crawley.
Team News: Four Liverpool stars set to miss Wolves clash
Liverpool Seek FA Cup Response at Wolves as Wirtz Nears Return From Injuries
FA Cup opportunity arrives quickly after Wolves setback
Cup football rarely waits for a team to catch its breath and Liverpool will discover that again at Molineux. Barely 72 hours after suffering a 2–1 Premier League defeat at Wolverhampton Wanderers, they return to the same ground with the stakes reset and the Emirates FA Cup offering immediate redemption.
Liverpool’s head coach Arne Slot has made it clear this is not a night for half-measures. Despite a relentless fixture list and lingering injuries across the squad, he intends to field a competitive side for the FA Cup tie. The message is unmistakable: this competition matters.
Speaking ahead of the match, Slot insisted the team would not treat the game lightly. “We will have a strong line-up tomorrow,” he said, acknowledging both the demands of the schedule and the importance of responding after Tuesday’s disappointment.
The timing, though, is unforgiving. Liverpool’s season has become a blur of matches played every three days, and Slot knows fatigue is an unavoidable factor. “It’s three games in seven days many times for us this season,” he explained. “And now again.”
Yet the FA Cup has always carried its own rhythm. Momentum can turn in a single evening, particularly in knockout football, and Liverpool will know a strong performance here could quickly erase the frustration of their recent defeat.
Photo: IMAGO
Wirtz edging closer after injury lay-off
One of the most intriguing storylines surrounding the tie centres on Florian Wirtz. The German playmaker has missed Liverpool’s last three matches due to a back injury, but signs of progress have emerged during training.
Slot revealed Wirtz has begun reintegrating into team sessions, though cautiously. “He trained half and half yesterday with the team,” the Liverpool manager said. “What I mean with that is he was a ‘joker’, so he made the next step in his rehab.”
That description suggests a player not yet ready to carry the creative burden but one who may influence proceedings if introduced late. Slot even hinted that Wirtz could feature briefly should the situation allow.
“Let’s see where he is today and if he then could be available for a few – a few – minutes tomorrow, in the best scenario,” he added.
For Liverpool supporters, even limited involvement from Wirtz would represent a welcome development. His technical quality and vision have added a new dimension to Liverpool’s attack this season, and his absence has been felt during a period already complicated by injuries elsewhere in the squad.
In FA Cup football, one moment of invention can decide everything. Wirtz, even at partial fitness, remains capable of providing exactly that.
Injuries shaping Liverpool squad decisions
While optimism surrounds Wirtz’s possible return, injuries remain an unavoidable subplot heading into the FA Cup tie. Liverpool still have several players unavailable, forcing Slot to balance ambition with practicality.
Stefan Bajcetic, Conor Bradley, Wataru Endo, Alexander Isak and Giovanni Leoni remain sidelined. Each absence removes another option from a squad already navigating one of the busiest periods of the campaign.
Rotation, therefore, becomes more than a tactical choice. It is a necessity.
Slot has admitted as much. Liverpool’s manager pointed to the constant physical demands when explaining recent substitutions and minutes management.
“Sometimes you take that into account in the line-up or in playing time,” he said. “Because, yeah, it’s always by choice that you take Jeremie Frimpong off but I don’t think it was smart for him to play 90.”
In other words, every decision now carries a longer view. Winning tonight matters, but so does surviving the weeks ahead.
Wolves preparation sets stage for intense cup battle
Wolves, meanwhile, approach the FA Cup tie with confidence and a largely healthy squad. Their head coach Rob Edwards confirmed that, aside from midfielder Andre serving a suspension, the team is in strong physical condition.
“Apart from Andre, who is suspended, we’re in a good spot now where everyone’s fit and available for tomorrow night,” Edwards said.
The hosts already proved capable of troubling Liverpool earlier this week and will sense an opportunity to repeat the trick in knockout football. The FA Cup often rewards organisation and resilience, qualities Wolves displayed effectively in the league encounter.
For Liverpool, the challenge is as much mental as tactical. Responding quickly after defeat, managing injuries, and possibly reintegrating Wirtz all within a demanding schedule would test any squad.
Still, the FA Cup rarely cares about excuses. It rewards the side willing to impose itself in the moment.
And Liverpool, as Slot has promised, intend to arrive with a team strong enough to do exactly that.
Rio Ngumoha needs Liverpool legend to stay but wish won’t be granted
Rio Ngumoha: Situation Summary
As of March 5, 2026, Rio Ngumoha has established himself as one of the most exciting young talents in the Liverpool first team, though he is currently at the centre of a debate regarding his playing time under Arne Slot.
Breakthrough and Historical Milestone
Ngumoha made history earlier this season on 25 August 2025, when he became Liverpool’s youngest-ever goalscorer. Coming off the bench against Newcastle United, he scored a 100th-minute winner at the age of 16 years and 361 days. This goal also made him the fourth-youngest scorer in Premier League history. Following this impact, he signed his first professional contract with the club on 25 September 2025, a three-year deal that keeps him at Anfield until June 2028.
Recent Form and Calls for Selection
The 17-year-old winger has become a frequent "impact sub" this season, making 17 appearances across all competitions. Most recently, he delivered an eye-catching cameo in the 2-1 defeat to Wolves on 3 March 2026. His performance was so impactful that club legends Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher have publicly urged Arne Slot to hand Ngumoha a starting role over Cody Gakpo for the FA Cup fifth-round tie against Wolves on Friday, 6 March. Despite these calls, the Wolves match also provided a learning curve for the youngster; captain Virgil van Dijk was seen visibly berating Ngumoha on the pitch after the teenager failed to close down the opposition before their 94th-minute winner.
Transfer Background and Development
Ngumoha’s move from Chelsea’s academy in the summer of 2024 remains a point of administrative focus. On 5 February 2026, a Professional Football Compensation Committee (PFCC) tribunal ordered Liverpool to pay Chelsea a minimum of £2.8 million for his training and development. While some reports suggest Arne Slot originally preferred to send the winger on loan this season to gain experience, the club hierarchy opted to keep him as part of the senior squad to provide competition in the wide areas. He currently maintains a market valuation of approximately €26 million (£22.3m), reflecting his rapid rise from the academy to a regular Premier League contributor.
Rio Ngumoha x Andy Robertson
There's a tonne of potential in a left flank of Ngumoha and Milos Kerkez. However, Kerkez is still a relatively young player, too, and certainly an inexperienced one.
It's why Arne Slot has typically tried to involve Andy Robertson behind Ngumoha. They came on at the same time against Wolves on Tuesday, while the Nottingham Forest game saw the Scot join the fray just six minutes after the teenager. Robertson played the full 90 minutes against Qarabag, too, with Ngumoha getting 23 minutes as a substitute.
Having such an experienced player behind Ngumoha is only going to help him. Someone to offer support, who knows where wingers should be, and who's completely adept at covering for mistakes.
You couldn't ask for a better option than Robertson. However, his contract expires this summer and we don't expect he'll get a new one. Not when he nearly joined Tottenham Hotspur in January.
And with Ngumoha on the verge of something special, letting Robertson go feels like a mistake.
UEFA hit Real Madrid with sanctions after incident during Benfica clash
Real Madrid’s clash against Benfica was headlined by the racism episode in Lisbon – one where Vinicius Jr was allegedly insulted for his colour on the field by a Benfica player.
The controversy continued into the second leg played at the Santiago Bernabeu played one week later. It was, however, for different reasons.
Ahead of kickoff at the Santiago Bernabeu on the night, a Real Madrid fan in the fan stand was caught on camera gesturing a Nazi salute.
The club security immediately identified him, located and expelled him from the venue, but UEFA unsurprisingly took the incident seriously without turning a blind eye.
Sanctions imposed
Now, as confirmed by MARCA, UEFA has posed a sanction on Real Madrid for what happened in the stands against Benfica despite the club publicly condemning the fans’ actions.
The UEFA Control, Ethics and Discipline committee has ordered a partial closure of the Santiago Bernabeu for a match citing the ‘racist and/or discriminatory behaviour of its fans.’
Real Madrid fined by UEFA over fan gesture. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
The closure will only come into effect if an episode of racism or discrimination recurs in the next year and will be applicable for the next game after that. Concurrently, Los Blancos have been fined €15,000 with immediate effect.
By partial closure, UEFA imply closure of a section of 500 seats adjacent to the lower south stand in the stadium, as clarified by the official statement.
Los Blancos, needless to say, must now be very alert to any such future incidents in the stands that could force the sanction to come into practice.
After all, they have taken a very strong stance against racism in any form, and it will not paint a pretty picture of them in any sense to be caught up in the same situation themselves.
Manchester United have announced that the cost of season tickets at Old Trafford will go up by five percent next season.
The club intend to invest the extra revenue in football and facilities after spending more than £200m in the transfer market last summer.
The cheapest season tickets at Old Trafford next year will be £646, an average of £34 for the 19 Premier League home matches.
Manchester United have increased the price of season tickets by five percent (Getty Images)
But United came under fire from the Manchester United Supporters Trust for moving 600 supporters from the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand to make way for extra, and more lucrative, hospitality seats.
United, who are on course to qualify for the Champions League, said they had consulted their Fan Advisory Board and that season-ticket holders would not pay more than one-nineteenth of the cost of their season ticket for any home European game.
But a MUST spokesman said: “It is disappointing that the club has ignored our call, as part of the FSA’s league-wide campaign, for a ticket price freeze. Supporters are paying more and more to watch their team, and as the FSA campaign said: enough is enough.
“We’ve also learned that 600 more loyal fans are being moved for ever more hospitality. Those people will be understandably furious, and need to be better treated by the club than those who went through the same thing last year were.
“That said, we are pleased the club listened to some of our concerns and there are no further restrictions on season ticket holders forwarding their tickets and no increase in the minimum usage rules. Football clubs make better decisions when they listen to fans - they should do it more!”
As Penn State approaches the start of the spring football practice season later this month, there is some notable injury news regarding some key players returning to the program this season. Among those on the offseason injury report is offensive lineman Anthony Donkoh, who will be out of action this spring, according to reports this week.
Donkoh is expected to miss out on spring football practices this year after undergoing an offseason medical procedure, as reported by Lions247. Despite missing the spring, it is expected Donkoh will be ready to go later this year when preseason training camp gets started for the 2026 season.
Donkoh is an experienced starter and was a key player who opted to return for another season following the offseason roster changes with an abundance of transfer portal activity. Donkoh has become a fixture for the Nittany Lions at offensive tackle, and his return is a boost for a new-look roster infused with some serious Iowa State flavor from the portal.
While he may not be available to get in sync with his new linemates this spring, Donkoh should be fine to jump right back into the thick of the line in the summer leading up to the start of the season as long as his recovery process stays on track as expected.
The New York Giants have begun addressing their need at middle linebacker following the release of Bobby Okereke, a move designed to create salary cap flexibility after his performance declined in recent seasons.
Okereke, a former team captain, started most games during his three-year tenure but was cut to save significant cap space ahead of free agency.
On the Breaking Big Blue podcast, ESPN's Jordan Raanan reported that the Giants checked in on Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Devin Lloyd.
"Devin Lloyd is a guy I believe they checked in on," Raanan said, noting that the Jaguars are working to re-sign their first-round pick from 2022.
Lloyd, a 27-year-old off-ball linebacker, has emerged as a standout, earning Second-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors in 2025 while recording 81 tackles, five interceptions, and a notable pick-6 (99 yards). His versatility and playmaking ability make him an intriguing option to anchor the middle of New York's defense.
Raanan added that the Giants have also "expressed interest" in Detroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone.
The 31-year-old veteran has been a reliable starter for the Lions, amassing over 600 career tackles with solid contributions in run defense and pass coverage across his time in New Orleans and Detroit.
With the emphasis on building a more physical unit under new leadership, these linebackers represent potential targets as the Giants seek a dependable MIKE linebacker to stabilize the second level and improve run-stopping effectiveness.
Julian Lewis will remain the talk of Colorado football circles following a promising, yet struggle-filled, redshirt freshman season a year ago.
As the Buffs' unquestioned QB1 heading into 2026, the hopes of Buffs' fans everywhere will be in his hands. It's those hands that ESPN writer Bill Connelly thinks might not be ready for that task, as he ranked Lewis near the bottom on his list of Power 4 quarterbacks before spring ball. Lewis ranked No. 62 of 68 eligible quarterbacks, surrounded by North Carolina transfer Gio Lopez and Division II transfer Mason McKenzie.
"Lewis was good in one late-season start (a win over WVU) and lost in another (a blowout defeat to Arizona State), but he has tools," Connelly writes of Lewis.
The former five-star's 2025 was a bit of a rollercoaster and wasn't helped by Deion Sanders' unorthodox management of his redshirt eligibility. In his first collegiate action against Delaware, Lewis looked overmatched in his two drives under center for Colorado, but that was by far the worst we'd see of the young quarterback.
Lewis finished his season throwing for 589 yards and four touchdowns while compeleting 55% of his passes. Notably, playing behind a patchwork offensive line, Lewis did not turn the ball over once in his dropbacks.
To give Connolly credit, Lewis is far from a proven deal, and the optimism surrounding him stems primarily from how well he played against West Virginia. Throw on top of that a change in offensive system, bringing in Brennan Marion and his unique "Go-Go" offense, could create a sink-or-swim situation for Lewis. The Buffs' quarterback will settle in for his second spring camp and hope to prove the doubters wrong and rise in Connolly's rankings.
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The season-ending torn ACL and LCL suffered last year by Patrick Mahomes was immediately projected to be an extended recovery process that could delay his start to the 2026 campaign. Since completing his surgery, the two-time league MVP has been hard at work rehabbing and inspiring a veteran Insider on his recovery progress.
Fox Sports NFL Insider Jay Glazer appeared as a guest on the Dan Patrick Show recently to weigh in on Mahomes' recovery and his belief that he will be ready for the start of the 2026 season.
"His pain threshold is different, his work ethic is different, so at first they were like, 'Oh, you know, start of the season.' I would probably hedge on him being (back on the field) sooner than that. By far. Because he just attacks things." Glazer said. "The initial reports were kind of on the fringe there, but I want to tell you, Patrick's (Mahomes) different."
Mahomes' surgery was performed by Dr. Dan Cooper, the Dallas Cowboys' team physician. He repaired the torn ACL and LCL in Mahomes' left knee back in December, shortly after the injury.
"He got (the surgery) before it swelled up. So that was on a Tuesday. I believe it was either Thursday or Friday that week that he was already in the Chiefs' training room doing rehab," said Glazer. "He had already got his knee bending at 90 degrees at that point." He's just different; he heals differently."
Mahomes finished the 2025 season with 22 touchdown passes and 11 interceptions in 14 games before the knee injury. He also rushed for 422 yards and five touchdowns.
The NFL world was left stunned after the New England Patriots released All-Pro wide receiver Stefon Diggs following a bounce-back season in 2025. But one team's trash is another team's treasure, which could play out perfectly for the Pittsburgh Steelers' free agency plans.
Here's a look at Diggs' scouting report, considering his stats, potential fit with the Steelers, and a contract prediction.
Sorely lacking another talented veteran wide receiver opposite Metcalf last season, Diggs would be a perfect addition to Pittsburgh's offense. Coming off the seventh 1,000-yard season of his career, Diggs is still one of the best route runners in the NFL.
The sixth-highest graded wide receiver in 2025 per Pro Football Focus, Diggs proved he still has enough gas in the tank at 32 years old and could come at a bargain for Pittsburgh following his abrupt exit from the Patriots.
Contract prediction
To project Diggs' value in free agency, we at Steelers Wire took a look at Spotrac's average annual values for two similar 32-year-old wide receivers — Tyreek Hill ($15 million) and Mike Evans ($13 million). With that in mind, we predict Diggs could command a slightly larger payday, a potential two-year, $34 million contract to bring his talents to Pittsburgh.
For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any offseason moves, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.
Texas A&M (20-10, 10-7 SEC) will finish the regular season against LSU on the road, likely needing to defeat the Tigers in order to earn an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament. After beating Kentucky 96-85 on Tuesday night, the Aggies are focused on fixing the small details that led to a 2-6 record in February. For first-year head coach Bucky McMillan, participating in March Madness would be a massive achievement.
Texas A&M's play-style, built around speed, three-point shooting, and relentless press defense, requires a deep roster that can rotate at any moment, and, after McMillan made significant changes to his starting five against the Wildcats, his bench combined for 57 points, including guards Rubén Dominguez and Rylan Griffen draining nine of the Aggies' 13 threes.
If Texas A&M makes the NCAA Tournament as expected, the Aggies are expected to earn an 8-11 seed and could be one of the more dangerous teams entering March Madness due to their electric, exhausting playstyle described above, which Bucky McMillan discussed during Thursday's press conference before facing LSU.
"When you get to tournament time, everyone is comfortable running their stuff," McMillan stated. "The way we play, we're going to try to get you out of your comfort zone. We play an attacking style, and when you're life is on the line, that's a great way to play."
While Texas A&M's sometimes massive size difference against several SEC opponents, especially Florida, resulted in blowout losses, forcing turnovers and responding with elite shooting performances is what "Bucky Ball" is all about. If the Aggies can build up a winning streak heading into the big dance, don't be surprised if McMillan's first roster in College Station makes some noise in March.
Texas A&M will face LSU on Saturday at 5:00 p.m. and will air on the SEC Network.
Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.
NFL free agency is set to begin next week and unrestricted free agents can begin negotiating with clubs on March 9. Key word: unrestricted.
The NFL has three designations for pending free agents: unrestricted (UFA), restricted (RFA) and exclusive rights (ERFA). We previously reviewed RFAs and ERFAs earlier this week. Today, we're taking a quick look at UFAs.
An unrestricted free agent is a player with at least four accrued seasons in the NFL and an expiring contract. Players who fit that category are allowed to negotiate with any team beginning March 9. Players can reach verbal agreements with clubs, but they can't officially sign with a new club until the new league year begins on March 11.
The Denver Broncos will have 13 unrestricted free agents this spring. View the full list below, with key players in bold.
The Detroit Red Wings are bringing back a familiar face as the NHL trade deadline approaches.
On Thursday night, Detroit acquired veteran forward David Perron from the Ottawa Senators, sending a conditional 2026 fourth-round draft pick the other way.
For Perron, the deal marks a return to the Red Wings, where he previously spent two seasons from 2022–23 through 2023–24.
A veteran presence returns to Detroit
Perron has appeared in 49 games this season, recording 10 goals and 25 points for Ottawa. However, the veteran winger is currently on injured reserve and has not played since Jan. 20.
Once he’s cleared to return, Perron will immediately add experience and leadership to a Detroit team pushing hard for a playoff berth.
During his previous stint with the Red Wings, Perron served as a key veteran voice in the locker room and contributed offensively while helping mentor Detroit’s younger players.
Playoff pedigree
Perron’s resume includes a Stanley Cup championship with the St. Louis Blues during the 2019 Stanley Cup Finals run.
In that postseason, Perron scored seven goals and 16 points in 26 games, playing a crucial role in helping the Blues capture the franchise’s first Stanley Cup.
Detroit originally signed Perron as a free agent in 2022 before he later joined Ottawa on a two-year contract worth $4 million annually.
Now in the final year of that deal, the 36-year-old winger returns to a Red Wings roster that could benefit from his experience as the playoff race intensifies.
Red Wings pushing for the playoffs
Detroit entered Thursday with a 35-20-7 record, sitting third in the Atlantic Division.
The Red Wings trail the Tampa Bay Lightning by just three points for the division lead while holding a four-point cushion over the Boston Bruins for the final Eastern Conference wild-card position.
With Detroit attempting to end what has become the franchise’s longest playoff drought in nine years, adding a proven veteran like Perron could provide a timely boost down the stretch.
If healthy, Perron’s familiarity with the organization and ability to produce in key moments could make him a valuable piece as Detroit chases its first postseason appearance since 2016.
Emma Raducanu’s decision to bring back Mark Petchey for Indian Wells has put her in the spotlight again.
The move comes after the 22-year-old parted ways with Francisco Roig, following a disappointing run at the Australian Open.
Coaching changes have always been a talking point in Raducanu’s career, and this latest switch only adds to that narrative.
But Raducanu has made it clear she won’t be making any quick decisions about her next coach, and she explained why things didn’t work out with Roig.
Raducanu opens up on her departure from Francisco Roig
Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images
Speaking to Sky Sports, Raducanu shared that it was actually Roig who initiated their split, despite her own pointed comments about his methods following the Australian Open.
She explained: “After Australia, me and Francis were talking. We have a great relationship, we could have a really open and honest conversation.
“He ended up saying, ‘look, I don’t think this is going in the way we both want it to’ so he ended it really.
“In a way I think we had a few moments where we weren’t agreeing on a few things. Other than that we still maintain a great relationship and I’ve seen him here, it’s been great to a see a familiar, great face around.”
Elsewhere, Tim Henman told Raducanu what she must change to get closer to Aryna Sabalenka and the game’s other top players.
Emma Raducanu says a new coach isn’t a priority right now
Speaking to BBC Sport, Raducanu made it clear she doesn’t feel the need to bring in another coach at this point.
The 22-year-old isn’t looking to hire someone unless they fully understand her approach and what she wants from her game.
She explained: “So I want to come back to my natural way of playing. That takes time to relearn because that’s something that has been coached out of me a little bit.
“It’s just that I would rather someone not come in and tell me ‘let’s do this’, and I disagree with it but have to listen to them.”
Players who have gone without a coach
Raducanu wouldn’t be the first player to go without a coach if she chose to move forward that way.
Nick Kyrgios is probably the most well-known example, having reached the Wimbledon final in 2022 without anyone offering him tactical advice from his box.
John McEnroe also never had a full-time coach, and Roger Federer went through his incredible run from 2003 to 2004 without one as well.
Jo-Wilfried Tsonga is another notable name who went an extended period on his own, spending 18 months solo and making two Wimbledon semi-finals during that stretch.
A lot of players impressed at the 2026 NFL Combine, providing some key options for the New England Patriots as they look to improve their roster.
And there have also been some big decisions made ahead of free agency that will affect how the Patriots look at the draft.
So, here's our latest NFL mock draft, focusing on how things look after the NFL combine and ahead of free agency.
Round 1, Pick 31: Kevin "KC" Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
The Stefon Diggs news has certainly changed things. While the New England Patriots are still expected to bring in a talented veteran receiver, whether that be in free agency or through a trade, this is arguably the biggest hole in the roster aside from edge.
KC Concepcion certainly impressed during the combine and is entering the NFL after a season at Texas A&M with nine touchdowns, along with 919 receiving yards. He can separate from defenders and has the speed to gain additional yards after the catch. He could certainly go earlier than the 31st overall pick, but if he's available, it's something New England should certainly think about.
Everyone saw what Drake Maye is capable of this past season, so giving him more talented targets will only help him and the team.
Round 2, Pick 63: Malachi Lawrence, EDGE, UCF
Some veteran edge rushers are set to hit free agency next week, including Boye Mafe, Odafe Oweh, and Trey Hendrickson, and the Patriots will almost certainly be in the mix. However, they also need to add some depth at the position, and that's where Malachi Lawrence comes in.
He's a talented player who showed up and showed out at the combine, running a 4.52-second 40-yard dash at 6-foot-4, 253 pounds.
The Patriots need depth at the tackle position, specifically planning for the future after Morgan Moses decides to hang up his cleats. Dametrious Crownover has the size, length, and athleticism of a tackle, and with the right coaching (aka Doug Marrone), he has a lot of potential as New England doesn't need him as an immediate starter.
Round 4, Pick 125: Jack Endries, TE, Texas
The Patriots need a tight end to play alongside Hunter Henry, and while they could address this in free agency, taking one in the draft is also expected. Jack Endries has a lot of talent, but needs to grow into an NFL receiver and become more consistent.
Round 4, Pick 131: Jaishawn Barham, LB, Michigan
Jaishawn Barham provides another player for the Patriots who can serve as an edge rusher. During the 2025 season, he recorded 10 tackles for loss, four sacks, three passes defended, and forced one fumble in 12 games played with Michigan
Round 5, Pick 169: Louis Moore, S, Indiana
If Jaylinn Hawkins doesn't return, the Patriots are going to need a safety, and one who had impressive interception production in 2025 is a solid option.
Round 6, Pick 190: Thaddeus Dixon, CB, UNC
While Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis are the two clear starters for the Patriots, that third spot is open, especially after the Patriots did not tender Alex Austin, making him an unrestricted free agent.
Round 6, Pick 201: J'Mari Taylor, RB, Virginia
Similar to the cornerbacks' position, the Patriots have two clear starters: Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson. But now that they have released Antonio Gibson, the third spot will need to be filled.
Round 6, Pick 208: Jeremiah Wright, IOL, Auburn
Jared Wilson had some struggles at the guard position this season, prompting the question of whether he should transition back to center. Garrett Bradbury still has one year left on his deal and impressed in 2025, but the Patriots need to plan for the future. And if Wilson moves back, they need a new guard.
Round 6, Pick 211: Barion Brown, WR, LSU
The Patriots get a two-for-one with Barion Brown, adding another receiver to the room while also gaining a kick returner.
Round 7, Pick 248: Joe Fagnano, QB, UConn
The Patriots have Drake Maye, so quarterback isn't a big need. But Joshua Dobbs only has one year remaining on his contract, and Tommy DeVito is a free agent. So this would be a pick to plan for the future.
It’s Bay Hill week on the PGA Tour and Matt Every is back at the scene of the greatest triumph of his golf career.
Both of them, actually. And we probably should say the greatest triumphs of his first golf career.
Now, while working on his second life in golf — one with cameras and microphones instead of 36-hole cuts or even clubs — he seems to mix a bit of relief along with a dose of the old competitive fire.
The relief: “My days trying to play the Tour, they’ve been long gone for a while. Mentally, I’m not even close to being there.”
The fire: “I mean this, I’m really excited about the TV stuff. I know it can be political in this industry, but I know, overall, talent wins in the long run, and I feel good about that.”
Back at Bay Hill for Arnold Palmer Invitational: All talk, no action, and he's fine with that
Every, 42, is a Daytona Beach native whose twin highlights were back-to-back wins at Bay Hill in the Arnold Palmer Invitational, in 2014 and 2015. After that, his results slowly and then quickly trended southward and now he’s nearly three years removed from his last start.
He lives in Jacksonville, about 20 miles from the PGA Tour’s home office and its splashy broadcast studio, where he’s now refocusing his golfing interests. He’s co-host of the Golf Channel’s “The Drop” on Monday nights, as well as the DraftKings-sponsored PGA Tour Live Betcast.
The Betcast show is a real-time, live-streaming broadcast on ESPN+ coinciding with the Tour’s biggest non-majors, known as “signature events,” such as this week’s event at Bay Hill in Orlando, where Every was spending the early week shooting spots for upcoming shows.
Florida golf isn’t the same every week
Matt Every explains: • Most elite Florida courses don’t overseed • 70° & calm? Getable. • 50s + North wind? Different animal.
Unlike too many tournament weeks in the past, he’s enjoying all of it.
“It’s like, where do you fit? Obviously, the goal is to be on network TV, but there are only so many spots,” he says. “The last couple of years, the way things have gone, I just keep my head down and keep filling up the cup every day, and then eventually good things will happen.
“I’m a big believer that talent wins over anything. I already feel like I’ve gained some momentum in this (TV) game, and that’s what it is — it’s a game.”
Matt Every plays just enough golf 'to keep myself honest'
After his second straight Bay Hill win in 2015, Every reached No. 40 in the world rankings, but it didn’t take long for fairways to start dodging his tee shots — a wayward driver was a big undoing. By year’s end, he was No. 123, and following the next year, he was outside the top 500.
The slide happened fast, but he’s in no hurry to attempt a rebirth between the ropes. Maybe because he doesn’t have a lot of time most weeks. He has a 13-year-old son who plays travel baseball and an 11-year-old daughter who plays travel softball. There go the weekends. And there’s his TV duties.
Nowadays, he says, he plays one or two 18-hole rounds a month, and might hit balls on the range for 30 minutes when he has time to kill.
That’s enough, for now.
“I do enjoy it, and I miss playing it, for sure,” he says. “But I have to work. I’ve got to do something else in my life. I don’t want to completely leave the game. I like doing what I’m doing now; it keeps me around it.
“I don’t like going to play golf and not know where the ball is going. That might be part of the reason I still play a little, just to keep myself honest. To get where I got, I had to be pretty selfish. It’s not my turn anymore, it’s my kids’ turn.”
PGA Tour Champions in his future? Never say never
Before playing professionally, Every had a highly decorated amateur career while playing collegiately at the University of Florida, where he was a three-time, first-team All American and won the 2006 Ben Hogan Award, given to the nation’s top college golfer.
He was also a member of America’s winning Walker Cup team in 2005, the same year he was low amateur in the U.S. Open at Pinehurst.
Looking back, that was Act 1 of a golfing life that cut its teeth at Riviera Golf Club in Ormond Beach. Act 2 grossed him more than $10 million on the PGA Tour. A potential Act 3, as a player, is roughly eight years away, when he’d be old enough to play the 50-and-over PGA Tour Champions. The kids will be college-age, and yes, it’s already in the back of his mind.
“That’s a different story,” he says. “Now that I don’t practice so much, I take care of my body better than I have my whole life. I think, if you stay explosive and flexible, I don’t think talent ever really leaves you.
“As long as I’m physically able, absolutely, it might be something I’ll entertain, for sure.”
With free agency near, let's explore what the Jacksonville Jaguars' starting defense would look like at this very moment.
Now, to state the obvious, what this lineup looks like today may not be what it will look like come training camp after free agency and the NFL draft take place. But what this exercise does do is provide us with insight into the current state of the Jaguars' roster.
After taking a look at the Jaguars' offense, now we're on to the defense.
Jaguars projected starting defense before free agency
Defensive line: Josh Hines-Allen, Arik Armstead, DaVon Hamilton, Travon Walker
Depth at both the defensive end and tackle positions is needed. At defensive tackle specifically, the Jaguars need a more consistent pass rush.
Linebacker: Foye Oluokun, Ventrell Miller, Jack Kiser
The level of urgency that GM James Gladstone feels about the linebacker position -- if Devin Lloyd leaves -- will be tied to his confidence in Miller, Kiser, and others.
Cornerback: Travis Hunter, Jourdan Lewis, Jarrian Jones
Jones can play both inside and out, but ideally, the Jaguars are able to add some competition for that starting outside role opposite of Hunter.
Safety: Eric Murray, Antonio Johnson
Andrew Wingard is a free agent, but Johnson, who really impressed last season, can step into that full-time starting role. Caleb Ransaw and Rayuan Lane can compete for that third safety role, which we see utilized in Anthony Campanile's defense. Gladstone could still make an addition here, given Lane and Ransaw's inexperience.
The Philadelphia 76ers have their focus on preparing for the final stretch run and making the playoffs, but it doesn't hurt to look ahead to the offseason and see what type of improvements they can make to the roster.
The Sixers made an interesting move at the deadline when they sent fan favorite Jared McCain to the Oklahoma City Thunder, but they did get four draft picks in return. One of those picks was a first-rounder in 2026 via the Houston Rockets so Philadelphia figures to be involved now in the draft.
Aday Mara had some eye-opening moments during Michigan's heavily-scouted game against Duke, when he was able to showcase his passing, post touch and defensive paint presence.
Those aspects of his game have been on display all season. Bad turnovers and dreadful free-throw shooting will turn teams off, but he's established himself as an enticing weapon for an NBA frontcourt as a 7'3" big who can facilitate, finish and protect the rim.
This pick will fluctuate in range throughout the rest of the season until the Rockets find their finish to determine where the pick will land. Mara is averaging 11.4 points and 6.9 rebounds along with 2.4 assists and 2.6 blocks with the Wolverines after transferring over from UCLA. The Sixers could always use some size so Mara should be an option should they make a selection in June.
Mar 1, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Georgia offensive lineman Monroe Freeling (OL24) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The 2026 NFL Combine is complete, and analysts from across the draft community are eagerly publishing their latest projections of what they believe will happen in the upcoming NFL Draft. Some plugged-in analysts are deciphering information they collected in Indianapolis, trying to accurately articulate what they learned. While some of the more novice analysts are working hard to gather information and avoid the pitfalls of overreacting to the results from the Combine.
In the 60 mock drafts we explored this week, we included established experts, as well as those new to the game, and everyone in between, to help give a full picture of which direction the Detroit Lions could lean come April. Additionally, we saw a near-even split in projections: 29 mock drafts paired the Lions with an offensive lineman, and 31 stuck to defense, with 23 expecting Detroit to grab an edge rusher. The final eight were split between defensive tackle (four), defensive back (three), and linebacker (one).
With that in mind, let’s take a look at which NFL Draft prospects are being mocked to the Lions this week.
Offensive linemen
Francis Mauigoa, RT, Miami (6-foot-6, 325) Source: Henry McKenna (FOX Sports), Jonny McGonigal and Nick Farabaugh (Penn Live)
“Taylor Decker is returning, so the Lions don’t have a glaring need at the tackle spots. But with the way they operate on offense, it’s important that they never have a glaring need at the tackle spots. So they plan for the future with a tackle that many have as the best offensive lineman in this class.” — McKenna
“Taylor Decker announced he’s returning for another season, but Brad Holmes is a smart general manager who addresses needs before they become glaring, especially at premium positions. Spencer Fano is an outstanding pass protector who also executed blocks in a variety of run-blocking concepts. Fano, an NFL Combine star, can play all five positions, which would give the Lions flexibility with Penei Sewell once Decker walks away.” — Melo
“The Lions love athletic traits in players, and Freeling has a 9.99 out of a possible 10.0 RAS score (relative athletic score), which ranks No. 2 out of 1,519 offensive tackles dating back to 1987. He’s got great size (6-7, 315) to go along with those athletic traits with plenty of room to grow and learn from two veteran tackles in Detroit after just 16 starts in college.” — Twentyman
“Lions general manager Brad Holmes said Tate Ratledge is a potential option at center if they need to replace Graham Glasgow. You know what could make that move easier? Bringing in the best guard prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft to play alongside Ratledge. Olaivavega Ioane is a powerful, technically sound player who excels in pass protection and consistently creates running lanes. He’s unquestionably the best pure guard in the class.” — Eisner
“The return of Taylor Decker in 2026 gives the Lions options on draft night, but it doesn’t eliminate offensive line from being the move here. Proctor has the talent to give Detroit immediate depth at both tackle and guard, especially after the release of Graham Glasgow. He’d be a long-term building block.” — Brugler
Caleb Lomu, LT, Utah (6-foot-6, 313) Source: Nate Tice and Charles McDonald (Yahoo Sports)
“While Giovanni Manu is still interesting to me, Lomu gives the Lions their Taylor Decker succession plan (and insurance for the 2026 season). Lomu has to continue to get stronger, but he has light feet, clean hand usage and the overall athleticism to stay on the left side and be a plus-blindside protector. Lomu has just turned 21, so a redshirt year under offensive line coach/run game coordinator Hank Fraley while continuing to add to his frame could make this a perfect player-team fit for a franchise that seems like it’s about to start transitioning to phase 2 of the Dan Campbell tenure.” — Tice
Erik’s Thoughts:
No one has seen their stock rise since the Combine like Freeling. After declaring for the draft in the final hours before the deadline, analysts have been catching up on his game all offseason, and his elite athletic testing at the Combine has blown the top of his status. In many mock drafts and draft board updates, Freeling has risen into the top three of offensive tackle prospects, with several analysts projecting him to be the second or even first OT selected. While I think there is a bit of recency bias at play, he’s young, very athletic, plays on the left side, and looks to have a high ceiling, which will appeal to teams.
With every rising prospect, someone has to fall out of favor, and that tackle is Spencer Fano. With Fano’s arm length checking in below the preferred NFL standard (32 1/8-inches), many have dropped him down their boards or are projecting a shift inside to guard. That being said, there are some questions surrounding the accuracy of the measurements at the Combine this year (yes, again), and Fano’s wingspan (80 1/4-inches) is closer to acceptable NFL levels. He was also spectacular in on-field drills, which is why I’m not sold on his plummeting down NFL draft boards. If he’s there at pick No. 17, the Lions should take him.
Proctor and Lomu are the more likely tackles to be in the Lions’ range in the first round, but I also believe we’ll start to see Clemson’s Blake Miller enter the fray here as well. Miller will not only enter the NFL with a high floor, given his four years of experience playing at a high level, but he’s also a high-character individual. He fits the Lions in a lot of ways.
Defensive tackle
Peter Woods, DT, Clemson (6-foot-2 1/2, 298) Source: Andrew Hammond (AL.com)
“Caleb Banks was one of the top performers at the 2026 NFL Combine, especially for someone his size. I think he has the athleticism and versatility necessary to play across the defensive line. I love this move, and I think Lions fans should, too.” — Lamb
Erik’s Thoughts:
At this time, I’m having a hard time buying into the idea that the Lions would draft first-round defensive tackles in back-to-back drafts. Add in that starters Alim McNeill and Tyleik Williams are already in place, and the fact that I’m not sure a single defensive tackle prospect is better than either of those two, and projecting them to address defensive tackle in other ways.
“B/R has Faulk listed as a defensive lineman rather than an edge-defender, but he can play as a base end in even fronts,” B/R scout Matt Holder said. “Plus, the Auburn product fits the physical profile that the Lions like at the position. The early entrant may not have the immediate impact as a pass-rusher Detroit is looking for, but he has plenty of traits to develop for the long-term plan.” — Sobleski
“The Lions tend to be unconventional early in the draft and have passed on edge rushers at this juncture the past couple of years, but Mesidor checks every box of what they typically look for on defense. He’s a heavy-handed rusher with nonstop effort who wears down blockers. He finished last season with 12.5 sacks and 17.5 tackles for loss for the Hurricanes and would be an ideal edge pairing with Aidan Hutchinson. Mesidor’s age (he turns 25 in April) has been a talking point, but that doesn’t seem to be an issue with scouts I have spoken with.” — Reid
“The Lions bolster the defensive end spot opposite Aidan Hutchinson here, grabbing an athletic and physical edge player in Parker. The former Clemson standout is tough and powerful at the point of attack and should immediately boost Detroit’s run defense, and he also offers upside as a pass rusher.” — Kelly
“Howell had a bit of an up-and-down week at the combine. His arm length was verified as one of the shortest of any edge rusher since 1999. He then placed in the 40th percentile in the broad and vertical jumps and the 80th percentile in the 40-yard dash and the 10-yard split before tweaking his hamstring during on-field drills. Regardless, Howell was one of the top pass rushers in college football over the past three seasons, bringing a tenacious and relentless rush style, and would pair nicely with Aidan Hutchinson.” — Sikkema
Erik’s Thoughts:
If the Lions elect to select a defender at pick No. 17, my early March guess is that it would be between Faulk, Messidor, and Parker. Currently, they are the only prospects in my EDGE Tier 2 group for the Lions, and I believe all three fit the scheme and meet the size/athleticism preferences. Faulk is the biggest, with freaky athleticism for his size; Messidor is the most NFL-ready but is older; while Parker may have the largest upside but is coming off a down season. Right now, I could see the Lions liking them all very close to the same.
Howell has been a popular projection to the Lions this offseason because of his pass-rushing talent, but I think his problems in defending the run are too significant for the Lions to value him at the same level analysts do. Unless they change their preferences or tweak their scheme, I just don’t see the fit.
Linebackers
Anthony Hill, LB, Texas (6-foot-2, 238) Source: Cody Carpenter (Roster Watch)
No Explaination.
Erik’s Thoughts:
With no explanation from the mock draft, it’s not clear why the Lions were paired with Hill in this mock draft. I certainly could see how the young linebacker would fit in as a WILL in the Lions’ scheme, and I know he has his champions, but pick No. 17 seems too rich, and I’m not sure he’ll crack the Lions’ top three at the position.
Defensive backs
Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee (6-foot-1, 188) Source: Rob Gregson and Adam Holt (A to Z Sports)
“McCoy brings inherent risk due to his injury history, but that is a risk I believe Detroit could take. If he works out and can stay available, he’s got Pro Bowl-caliber potential. Dominant 2024 tape before missing last season.” — A to Z
“Detroit has needs along the offensive line, but Terrell has the fearless mentality, ball skills, and coverage instincts to fit at multiple spots in the secondary. Amik Robertson is set to be a free agent and Terrell played outside corner and nickel in college.” — Jackson
Erik’s Thoughts:
If the Lions believe Terrion Arnold will be unavailable to them because of the recent accusations made against him in Florida, then I do believe McCoy would be in play for the Lions in the first round if he were available at pick No. 17. Arguably the best corner in the draft, McCoy is a press-man outside corner who is sticky in coverage and physical in the run game. His medicals will have to check out positively after missing last season due to injury, but the day one starting talent is there.
If the Lions elect to deploy more defensive subpackages in 2026, then Terrell is the best slot corner in the draft. His talent and upside are round-one worthy, and the Lions have a need, but the nickel position is typically a part-time role in most defenses, which is especially true for the Lions, as they used their nickel around 50% of the time. If the Lions decide to use fewer three-linebacker sets and increase their reliance on a nickel, then Terrell could be a sleeper for pick No. 17.
The Jaguars cleared some cap space ahead of next week's start to free agency.
They have restructured the contracts of right guard Patrick Mekari and safety Eric Murray. Spotrac reports that the two moves have cleared more than $10 million off the cap in Jacksonville.
Mekari joined the Jaguars last year and started 14 games in his first season with the team. He came as a free agent after starting 53 games across the offensive line in Baltimore.
Murray is also heading into his second season with the Jags. The former Chief, Brown and Texan had 54 tackles, an interception, a sack and a forced fumble in 12 appearances.
Mark DeRosa is managing the squad, which includes MVP winners such as Aaron Judge and Bryce Harper, and the reigning Cy Young Award winners in Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes. DeRosa, a solid player across 16 MLB seasons, is joined by a who's who of assistants.
Team USA was runner-up in the 2023 World Baseball Classic after falling to Japan in the championship. The U.S. has assembled a much more impressive roster on paper in 2026 but will face staunch competition from Japan again, as well as the Dominican Republic, Mexico and Venezuela, among others.
DeRosa, who's now an MLB Network analyst alongside his Team USA managing duties, has no shortage of experience among his coaching staff for the WBC. Here's a look at Team USA's full staff ahead of its first game against Brazil on March 6 in Houston:
Team USA coaching staff for WBC
Manager: Mark DeRosa
Bench coach: Skip Schumaker
Pitching coach: Andy Pettitte
Hitting coach: Matt Holliday
First base coach: George Lombard
Third base coach: Dino Ebel
Bullpen coach: David Ross
Assistant manager: Fredi Gonzalez
Assistant manager: Brian McCann
Assistant manager: Michael Young
There's plenty of MLB managing experience on Team USA's coaching staff, including current Rangers manager Skip Schumaker. Schumaker, an 11-year MLB veteran, was the National League Manager of the Year with the Marlins in 2023.
Former Yankees pitcher Andy Pettitte, the winningest postseason pitcher ever, returns as pitching coach. Pettitte won five World Series titles with New York. Seven-time All-Star Matt Holliday will lead the hitters. The 2007 batting champion's sons Jackson Holliday and Ethan Holliday were both recent top-five picks in the MLB draft.
Tigers bench coach George Lombard is the first base coach and Dodgers third base coach Dino Ebel will handle the same duties for Team USA. Lombard's oldest son, George Lombard Jr., is a top prospect for the Yankees. His other son, Jacob Lombard, is one of the top 2026 MLB Draft prospects.
Former Cubs manager David Ross will lead the bullpen. The World Series is a two-time World Series champion with the Red Sox (2013) and Cubs (2016).
Brian McCann, Michael Young and Fredi Gonzalez round out the staff as assistant managers. McCann and Young are both seven-time All-Stars, and Gonzalez, a former MLB manager, led the Marlins from 2007-10 and Braves from 2011-16.
Dec 22, 2025; Lawrence, Kansas, USA; Kansas Jayhawks guard Kohl Rosario (7) dunks the ball against the Davidson Wildcats during the first half of the game at Allen Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images | Denny Medley-Imagn Images
Puerto Rico, one of just four countries to advance to the World Baseball Classic quarterfinals in the first five tournaments, will play on in the 2026 edition. Yet the Boricua may have already suffered their most significant losses weeks before the WBC began.
For the first time since 2013, Puerto Rico will be without its superstar infielders, Carlos Correa and Francisco Lindor, who were ruled out of the tournament due to insurance concerns.
Lindor subsequently suffered a hamate bone injury that would have knocked him out, anyway. Yet Correa’s loss – along with valued catcher Victor Caratini and right-hander Jose Berríos – can be attributed to a risk management issue that girds the tournament’s capability to utilize major league stars in a full-go, competitive environment during spring training.
Why can’t Carlos Correa play in the WBC?
Correa’s history of leg injuries is well-documented, since he suffered a fractured right tibia as a Houston Astros minor leaguer. The injury history emerged in the spotlight during Correa’s second tour through free agency, when deals exceeding $300 million in value with the San Francisco Giants and New York Mets were scrapped due to concerns that emerged during his physical before the 2023 season.
Major league players are insured during the WBC – which is co-owned and operated by Major League Baseball and the MLB Players Association - through National Financial Partners. NFP refuses to guarantee contracts for players whose contracts are in their second guaranteed year in a season a position player turns 37, and fourth guaranteed year for pitchers turning 37, baseball officials familiar with the matter confirmed to USA TODAY Sports.
Yet injury history and recent surgical procedures can also scuttle a player’s eligibility.
Jose Altuve, Jose Berríos: Ineligible for WBC
Lindor had a minor right elbow debridement after last season, scuttling his eligibility before his hamate issue emerged. Jose Altuve, 35, had a pair of strikes against him: He suffered a broken thumb playing for Venezuela in the 2023 WBC, and his $125 million contract extension runs through 2029; he will turn 37 in 2028.
Berríos, 31, pitched for Puerto Rico in 2013, 2017 and 2023. Yet he revealed last month that elbow inflammation that ended his season early was preceded by problems with his biceps tendon that he pitched through. Now, he’ll miss his first WBC, but should be nearing full health in time for the Blue Jays to begin defense of their American League title.
And Venezuela’s infield depth will be further thinned by the absence of Miguel Rojas, the Dodgers’ World Series hero. He turned 37 on Feb. 24, rendering his $5.5 million salary for 2026 – his final big league season, he’s said – uninsurable.
“It's really hard to not have the opportunity to put my country on my chest and to represent them and help win a World Baseball Classic – and not have the opportunity to do it because I'm 37 years old," Rojas said at the Dodgers’ fan festival last month. "That's not right. I don't feel it's right."
With 665 Para athletes and 79 sets of medals to be awarded, Milan Cortina will feature a record number of athletes and medals.
They will compete across six sports: Para alpine skiing, Para biathlon, Para cross-country skiing, Para ice hockey, Para snowboard and wheelchair curling.
In the skiing sports — Para alpine skiing, Para biathlon, Para cross-country skiing — athletes compete in one of three categories: standing, sitting (on a sit-ski or monoski) or vision impaired (who race following a guide connected via radio).
Guides also receive medals.
Within each of these three categories skiers compete in different divisions depending on their functional ability. A results calculation system determines the factored time of each athlete, which allows athletes from different divisions to race against each other.
Here’s a look at the sports:
Para alpine skiing
Introduced at the first Winter Paralympics in 1976, it includes five events: slalom, giant slalom, super-G, downhill and super combined.
There are 30 medal events — 15 for men and 15 for women.
In the sitting category, athletes use a specialized monoski, a seat mounted on a single ski with a shock absorber that helps with riding on uneven terrain and making turns.
In Para biathlon and Para cross-country, the sit-ski is a sitting device mounted on a pair of cross country skis.
Para alpine skiing will take place on the Olympia delle Tofane course in Cortina d’Ampezzo, the same iconic course that held the women’s alpine skiing at the recently concluded Winter Olympics.
Para biathlon
Combines the strength and endurance of cross-country skiing with the precision and composure of target shooting.
There are three events in each class — 7.5-kilometer sprint, 12.5-kilometer individual and sprint pursuit — and men and women compete in separate races, for a total of 18 medal events.
The ski course is tackled several times and between each lap athletes shoot at five metal targets placed 10 meters away. For each missed shot they get a time penalty or have to ski a penalty loop, depending on the event.
Athletes with disabilities in the upper limbs can be assisted by their coaches in positioning the rifle and pulling the trigger at their direction. In the vision impairment category, athletes are aided by acoustic targets which indicate how close they are to the target before shooting.
The sport was introduced for athletes with physical disabilities at the 1988 Innsbruck Paralympic Games and for athletes with visual disabilities in 1992 at Albertville.
At Milan Cortina, Para biathlon will take place at the Tesero Cross-Country Skiing Stadium.
Para cross-country skiing
This will also take place in Tesero and has a total of 20 medal events.
There are three events for men and women (across the three categories): sprint, 10-kilometer interval start classic, 20-kilometer interval start free. There is also the mixed 4x2.5-kilometer relay, and open 4x2.5-kilometer relay.
For each competition, there are separate courses for athletes in the sitting category and for athletes in the standing and vision impaired categories. The courses for the athletes in the sitting category have lower gradients as the athletes rely on the upper body for pushing/pulling themselves forward while on a sit-ski.
A relay team can be made up of two, three or four athletes (plus guides as appropriate) with athletes able to ski more than one leg.
Para ice hockey
Para ice hockey was invented at a rehabilitation center in Stockholm, Sweden, during the early 1960s by a group of Swedes who, despite their physical impairment, wanted to continue playing hockey.
It debuted in the Winter Paralympics at Lillehammer in 1994 and involves athletes with a physical disability in their lower limbs. Matches consist of three 15-minute periods.
Rather than skates, players use double blade sledges that allow the puck to slide underneath and have two sticks, which have a spike-end for propulsion and a blade-end for handling the puck.
Para ice hockey is a mixed gender sport, although only two teams at Milan Cortina have a female in their squads — Japan and Slovakia.
Moreover, only three female ice hockey players have ever participated at the Paralympic Games: Norwegians Brit Mjaasund Oeyen in 1994 and Lena Schroeder at Pyeongchang in 2018, and Yu Jing of China at Beijing in 2022.
The United States will be looking to complete a three-peat, having won both the men’s and women’s tournaments at the recent Winter Olympics. The U.S. has also won the Para ice hockey at five of the past six editions of the Winter Paralympics, with only Canada interrupting that streak in 2006.
Competition will take place at the new Santagiulia arena in Milan. There are eight teams, split into two groups. The teams play each other team in their group once in a round-robin format, with the top two from each group advancing to the semifinals.
Para snowboard
Debuted in Sochi in 2014 as part of the alpine skiing program, although there have been a varied number of events at subsequent Olympics.
At Milan Cortina there are two events across three categories for men depending on the disability and one category for women.
There are two categories for men with lower-limb impairments and one for those with upper-limb impairments, while there is one category for women with lower-limb impairments.
Para snowboarders with a disability affecting one or both legs can use prosthetics or modified equipment to compete.
The two events are banked slalom and snowboard cross and will take place in Cortina. In banked slalom, athletes get two individual runs down the course with their best time counting toward the final ranking.
The heats and the finals of the snowboard cross will see four athletes racing at the same time. The top two advance from the heats and then the first across the finish line in the final wins.
Wheelchair curling
The mixed-team event for athletes with physical disabilities in their legs is celebrating its 20th anniversary after being introduced the last time the Paralympics were held in Italy, in 2006.
Players can choose whether to throw the stone alone or with a teammate who holds the wheelchair steady. Athletes can use an extender to add speed and direction.
There are eight ends per game, two less than games at the Olympics, and there is no sweeping.
Competition will take place at the Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium and the program will feature a mixed doubles competition for the first time as well as the regular mixed team event.
Feb 11, 2026; Clearwater, FL, USA; Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Aaron Nola (27) runs a drill during spring training at BareCare Ballpark. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images | Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images
The pool play for the WBC begins in earnest today, which means as I write this, Shohei Ohtani hits a grand slam to open the scoring for Samurai Japan.
ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN - NOVEMBER 29: Jyaire Hill #20 of the Michigan Wolverines intercepts the pass in front of Jeremiah Smith #4 of the Ohio State Buckeyes during the first half of a college football game at Michigan Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The Ohio State Buckeyes won the game 27-9. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images) | Getty Images
February’s recruiting dead period is now in the rearview mirror, so a busy stretch is coming for the Michigan Wolverines’ coaching staff. Spring ball is about to begin, and so are spring visits. Let’s take a look at the latest happenings in the recruiting world on today’s Recruiting Roundup.
The Wolverines are looking to heat things up in the 2027 class, and a crucial target is four-star cornerback Xavier Hasan. He has been committed to Notre Dame since December, but a recent Michigan offer could change things.
“I was really excited,” Hasan told On3’s Ethan McDowell ($). “My dad was super excited because we grew up Michigan fans. It was special.
“He would go to all the Michigan games from a young age, so he really put that in my head— it would just be everything Michigan. Detroit — the Pistons, the Lions and the Wolverines — those were my favorite teams growing up.”
Hasan also noted Michigan used to be his “dream school” before committing to the Irish, but he still has some interest in the Wolverines. Michigan’s new cornerbacks coach Jernaro Gilford is starting to form a good relationship with Hasan, which is a good first step in trying to pull off a flip.
“He’s not too much over the top, which I really like,” Hasan said. “I like a coach I can just go and talk to about anything pretty much.”
Hasan (5-foot-11, 195 pounds) is ranked No. 41 overall on the 247Sports composite.
Important 2027 target high on Michigan
Another big target for Michigan in the secondary in the 2027 class is safety Darrell Mattison. The Wolverines have been in constant contact with the Chicago native, and safeties coach Tyler Stockton is leading the charge.
“He came and talked to my mom and everybody, and he kept it straight up with me,” Mattison told On3’s McDowell ($). “He was like ‘You’ve got to do this and that, and we’re treating you like a priority.’ They probably talk to me about every other day. They’re talking to me every other day and just seeing what’s up, what’s going on, just building that relationship, and that’s very important.”
Mattison is feeling the love from Stockton the coaching staff, and that is a big reason why he is so high on the Wolverines right now.
“Their head coach, the defensive coordinator and the safeties coach, them three alone, they run things,” Mattison said. “It was like, ‘Oh yeah, we really want this kid,’ and that’s what really sparked my interest.”
Michigan is one of Mattison’s top schools right now, but his decision will be made after he gets to visit all of his top options. He will get the chance to see Ann Arbor up close this spring, along with other schools he has interest in like Indiana, Penn State and West Virginia. But it sure sounds like Michigan may be tough to beat.
“They’re definitely in my top, for real,” Matttison said. “They’re definitely in there.”
Sep 10, 2024; San Francisco, California, USA; General view of the helmet used by the Milwaukee Brewers before the start of the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Stan Szeto-Imagn Images | Stan Szeto-Imagn Images
Greetings, Brew Crew Ball community. Welcome to March, as Opening Day is now just three weeks away!
Feel free to use this thread to chat about (almost) anything you want: video games, food, movies, non-baseball sports, the Brewers, you name it. As long as it’s appropriate and is allowed by our moderators, it’s fair game here.
The Gunners secured a narrow win after defending a lead they held for more than 80 minutes plus added time. Bukayo Saka converted his opportunity very early in the match, giving Arsenal the advantage and forcing Brighton to chase the game for the remainder of the contest.
From that point, Arsenal understood the importance of maintaining their lead. Brighton has developed a reputation as one of the most difficult teams to defeat once they gain momentum, and the Gunners were determined not to allow their opponents the chance to take control of the match.
Arsenal Focus on Protecting Their Lead
Arsenal were also aware of how dangerous the Seagulls can be when allowed to play their natural attacking game. As a result, the Gunners focused on disrupting Brighton’s rhythm whenever possible. They repeatedly slowed the tempo of the game, breaking up the flow of play and taking additional time during restarts.
While the approach frustrated the home side and their supporters, it ultimately worked in Arsenal’s favour. By controlling the pace and limiting Brighton’s attacking opportunities, they were able to preserve their advantage until the final whistle.
The victory has strengthened Arsenal’s position at the top of the EPL table, particularly after Manchester City dropped points elsewhere. With only a limited number of matches remaining in the season, every result carries added significance in the title race.
Warnock Backs Arsenal’s Approach
Arsenal have done well to maintain their place at the summit of the league standings, and the team will now aim to ensure they remain there as the campaign enters its decisive phase.
However, Neil Warnock believes the criticism directed at Arsenal is misplaced. In his view, the priority for any team chasing the title is to secure results, regardless of how those victories are achieved. Speaking about the situation, Warnock defended Arsenal’s tactics, as reported by Talk Sport.
Warnock said: “People don’t want to know the truth, all they want to know is Arsenal want to win 1-0 and get that trophy over the line, they’ve waited so long.
“They’re not bothered if they win 1-0… but who’d have thought that corners and long throws were going to come back!”
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The Carolina Hurricanes face the Edmonton Oilers Friday, just six hours after the closing of the NHL Trade Deadline, at 9:00 PM EST in Edmonton.
As of the time of writing, the Hurricanes have not made any trades, though there have certainly been names out there, and considerable assets with which to conduct moves. However, the game comes on the heels of the events of Thursday, in which owner Tom Dundon sold a minority stake of the Hurricanes organization to a trio of investors.
Meanwhile, the Oilers started getting spicy well before the trade deadline, as they acquired Connor Murphy Monday, and Jason Dickonson and Colton Dach Wednesday – sending away Andrew Mangiapane and draft capital.
For goalies, it is unknown who will get the start for the Hurricanes, as they seemed to have broken the pattern from their usual alternating tandem in recent games. However, if the original pattern continues, then Frederik Andersen will take the crease. This season, he has a save percentage of .874 and a goals against average of 3.16 across an 8-11-5 record.
As for the Oilers, Tristan Jarry had the starter’s crease during practice Thursday, and is likely to begin. His save percentage this season is .890, with a goals against average of 3.18 across a 15-7-2 record.
Expected Carolina Hurricanes Lines
Andrei Svechnikov – Sebastian Aho – Seth Jarvis
Taylor Hall – Logan Stankoven – Jackson Blake
Nikolaj Ehlers – Jordan Staal – Jordan Martinook
William Carrier – Mark Jankowski – Eric Robinson
Defense
Jaccob Slavin – Jalen Chatfield
K’Andre Miller – Sean Walker
Shayne Gostisbehere – Alexander Nikishin
Goaltenders
Frederik Andersen / Brandon Bussi
Expected Oilers Lines
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins – Connor McDavid – Zach Hyman
Matthew Savoie – Leon Draisaitl – Jack Roslovic
Josh Samanski – Adam Henrique – Trent Frederic
Vasily Podkolzin – Jason Dickinson – Kasperi Kapanen
Defense
Mattias Ekholm – Evan Bouchard
Darnell Nurse – Ty Emberson
Jake Walman – Connor Murphy
Goaltenders
Tristan Jarry / Connor Ingram
Special Teams
Carolina Hurricanes power play: 22.6% (10th, up three spots from the previous game) Carolina Hurricanes penalty kill: 80.0% (13th, down three spots from the previous game)
As always, the lineups are mere projections – a note to make especially clear in the uncertainty of the NHL Trade Deadline.
Jesperi Kotkaniemi was given a spot on the bench in the Hurricanes’ recent game versus the Vancouver Canucks. It is unclear whether he or Mark Jankowski will be the healthy scratch versus the Oilers.
Friday’s game will be the first half of an Albertan back-to-back. They will face the Calgary Flames just 25 hours later, which will be their final game of the trip.
How To Watch
TV: FanDuel Sports Network South Streaming: ESPN+ Radio: 99.9 The Fan
BRIGHTON, ENGLAND - MARCH 04: Bukayo Saka of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Arsenal at Amex Stadium on March 04, 2026 in Brighton, England. (Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images) | Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Go ahead and get the coffee pot prepped, folks. The Gunners kick off early on Saturday as they look to punch their ticket to the quarterfinals of England’s oldest cup competition when they travel to face League One side Mansfield Town FC.
It’s fair to say that Arsenal have been extremely fortunate in their cup draws this season, especially in the FA Cup. After seeing off League One side Wigan at home in the 4th round, they got the good fortune of drawing another club from England’s 3rd division for their first 5th round appearance in 6 years when they drew the Stags. On a weekend where several Premier League sides face one another, you take those.
Just as (if not more so) important than the opportunity is the timeliness of it. It’s no secret that Arsenal have been running on fumes lately. By the time the final whistle blew after their ugly-but-pivotal victory over Brighton on Wednesday, they were completely spent. Saturday is another chance to catch their breath ahead of a trip to Germany for a Champions League round of 16 tie and hopefully spread some minutes around.
However, as we have seen too many times before, anything is possible in a cup tie. Last year’s PL title winners Liverpool were dumped out of the FA Cup by Plymouth Argyle in the 4th round, while current title holders Crystal Palace lost to 6th tier Macclesfield this season. The cautionary tales abound, and you want to avoid becoming one if you can help it.
After several years of early exits, the Gunners have as favorable a shot as you could hope for to get one foot into the quarterfinals. Can the Gunners rotate, take care of business, and keep their momentum as a decisive March rolls on?
Here are three talking points ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup match:
Know the Enemy
Mansfield Town FC enter the match in 16th place in League One with 41 points from a record of 10W/11D/12L.
The Stags remain one of a handful of non-PL sides in the FA Cup thanks to their shock 4th round win over Burnley on Valentine’s Day. A late free kick at Turf Moor saw the visitors secure a win over the hosts for a little bit of the mythical FA Cup magic.
But outside of their cup win, things have hit a wall for Mansfield Town. In League One, they are in the midst of a 9 match winless run with their last win coming against bottom of the table Port Vale in mid January. A lack of goals have hampered their chances of climbing up the table, with only 6 scored in the league during their slump. Facing the best defense in the Premier League on Saturday, they will certainly have to hope for another odds-defying performance to make it past the Gunners.
They are stronger in the defense than in the attack, so it won’t be a surprise if they set up to frustrate Arsenal and keep them from having any clear chances. The Gunners will surely see more of the ball, but recent performances have shown a frustrating lack of consistent incisiveness in the final third.
None of the Stags’ players have ever played for Arsenal, though attacker Victor Adeboyejo was once a member of Arsenal’s youth academy over a decade ago.
Injuries & Suspensions
The Gunners did not add to their injured list against Brighton, but they are still without a few players who likely would/could have featured in Saturday’s match. Kai Havertz returned to action after another minor knock, but Martin Ødegaard and Ben White remained absent on Wednesday. If either are fit for Sunday, you’d imagine they would get a bit of run out.
OUT: Mikel Merino (foot)
DOUBT: Ben White (knock), Martin Ødegaard (knee)
Predicted Lineup
Attack: Martinelli, Jesus, Madueke
After a run of crucial league victories, the Gunners get another opportunity to rotate. Gabriel Martinelli started at Brighton and once again looked anonymous, but his cup form is undeniable. Gabriel Jesus hasn’t seen the pitch much lately, but he should be more than up to task on the weekend. Noni Madueke spells Bukayo Saka after Arsenal’s starboy notched his 300th match for the Gunners against Brighton, where his strike proved to be the difference.
Midfield: Lewis Skelly, Nørgaard, Eze
Could we maybe, possibly, finally see Myles Lewis-Skelly in the midfield? Considering the lack of options, I am going to remain optimistic that he gets his chance in the middle of the pitch. Christian Nørgaard has seen more time in the league in relief, so a start is more than earned. Eberechi Eze hasn’t lit up the net since the Spurs match, but with Martin Ødegaard almost back, I think he comes in once more at the 10.
Defense: Calafiori, Hincapie, Saliba, Mosquera
Arsenal’s defensive depth is a true blessing. After a dogged clean sheet performance against Brighton, the defense can field a rotated but still stout side. Riccardo Calafiori has returned to fitness, and a start on the left makes sense. Piero Hincapie has been massive in recent weeks and could slide in at centerback on the left for Gabriel. William Saliba was left out against Brighton, and he should slide back into his spot to lead the back line if he is good to go. Cristhian Mosquera spells Jurrien Timber to give the Dutchman a deserved break.
Keeper: Kepa
It’s been a minute since we’ve seen him, but Arsenal’s backup keeper has been stellar in cup ties this season, with a perfect record so far.
It would be easy to overlook this tie with how important the matches around it feel; it would also be pretty foolish. The schedule feels never-ending, but top teams want to win everything they possibly can. A win puts Arsenal into the quarterfinals and gets them another step closer to another chance to play for silverware. As tired as the players are, nothing will do more for their momentum and belief than another win.
WHO: Arsenal at Mansfield Town WHAT: The FA Cup 6th round WHEN: Saturday, March 7th, 7:15am EST/4:15am PST/12:15pm GMT WHERE: One Call Stadium, Mansfield HOW TO WATCH: Broadcast on ESPN2 and ESPN+
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While the rest of the Big Ten duke it out in their regular-season finales, No. 1 Michigan Hockey had a unique exhibition date with Simon Fraser, winning 8-1 on Thursday night at Yost Ice Arena.
The British Columbia-based university provided the Wolverines (26-7-1, 17-6-1 Big Ten) a nice opportunity to stay fresh with real game competition before the conference tournament, which, with No. 2 Michigan State’s victory over Minnesota, means Michigan will play a quarterfinal contest against Notre Dame next weekend.
On the ice, it was a confidence booster for this already confident group, as senior forward T.J. Hughes netted two goals and had three assists, junior winger Jayden Perron had one goal and three assists, sophomore forward Michael Hage dished out a pair, and six other Wolverines hit the back of the net.
Freshman goaltender Jack Ivankovic started between the pipes, stopping all 10 shots en route to a 2-0 lead after the first period. However, the floodgates opened in the second as Michigan piled on four more, and freshman Stephen Peck replaced Ivankovic. Sophomore Julian Molinaro eventually took over in this three-goalie rotation, going 9-for-10 on shots against, the lone blemish in an otherwise smooth evening in Ann Arbor.
More importantly than the result is the Wolverines will not have a long lay-off before these crucial Big Ten Tournament games that could certainly determine the top overall seed in the NCAA Tournament.
Bayern wary of Liverpool as Michael Olise contract situation becomes ‘dangerous’
Liverpool have been loosely linked with Michael Olise before, and a new update from Germany suggests Bayern Munich are increasingly aware that Premier League clubs could test their resolve over the French winger.
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Olise has been outstanding for Bayern this season and his performances have already triggered discussions internally about securing his long-term future.
However, Bayern’s attempt to extend his contract may not be as straightforward as they would like.
Bundesliga insider Christian Falk outlined the situation for CF Bayern Insider, explaining that Liverpool and Manchester City are both being monitored as potential threats if negotiations drag on.
Falk said: “Bayern also heard that Liverpool are interested and Manchester City is watching the player.”
That does not mean a transfer is imminent.
But it does underline why Bayern’s hierarchy believe delaying negotiations could open the door for rival clubs.
Bayern facing tricky contract balancing act
Olise currently remains under contract until 2029, which means Bayern are not under immediate pressure to act.
Still, the club would ideally like to extend those terms further.
Falk explained that Bayern want to tie the winger down until 2031, though the wider contract situation at the club is complicating matters.
He said: “Bayern Munich would love to have him sign a new contract until 2031.”
However, several negotiations are happening simultaneously behind the scenes.
The German journalist warned this balancing act could become problematic.
Falk said: “It’s a bit of a dangerous game; the longer you wait, the more it invites other clubs to pick up the phone and call the player.”
Why Olise would appeal to Liverpool
It is easy to see why Liverpool supporters would be intrigued by the idea of Olise eventually becoming available.
The Bayern winger has been one of the Bundesliga’s most productive attacking players this season.
According to Sofascore, the 24-year-old has recorded 10 goals and 16 assists in 23 Bundesliga appearances, while also creating 22 big chances.
Those numbers reflect a player capable of both scoring and creating regularly.
From Liverpool’s perspective, future planning in the forward line will inevitably become a topic over the next couple of transfer windows.
SARASOTA, FL - MARCH 02: Ozzie Albies #1 of Team Netherlands poses for a photo during the Team Netherlands photo day at Ed Smith Stadium on Monday, March 2, 2026 in Sarasota, Florida. (Photo by Will Vragovic/WBCI/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
The 2026 World Baseball Classic is officially underway and if you’re keeping track of things from an Atlanta Braves perspective, today is the day for you. It’s all going down today at high noon at loanDepot park in Miami, FL as Ronald Acuña Jr. and Venezuela get set to take on Ozzie Albies and Jurickson Profar Chadwick Tromp representing the Netherlands in the first game of Pool D in Miami. Andruw Jones will be in the dugout as the manager for the Netherlands, so there’s definitely going to be a Braves flavor to this particular ballgame.
It’ll surely be fun to see best pals Acuña and Albies turn into baseball enemies for a day and the good news for you is that we have information as to how you can watch. While the game may not be on a traditional TV channel like FOX, FS1 or FS2, the game will still be televised via streaming. You’ll have to catch this game on tubi (tubitv.com) if you want to see the international Braves stars in action during the WBC. If you can’t watch then you can listen on MLB Audio (via the MLB+ package which starts at $5.99 a month) or on Sirius XM if you’re subscribed to that as well.
Either way, you’re going to want to tune in for this one if you want to get your fix of Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ozzie Albies playing in meaningful baseball games about a month earlier than usual. No matter who you’re pulling for, Braves fans are going to come out on top in this one.
Mauro Bianchessi reveals how Locatelli has been revived by Spalletti
Manuel Locatelli has enjoyed a resurgence in form since Luciano Spalletti became the Juventus manager, a development that has attracted attention given their previous circumstances with the Italian national team.
Spalletti had not shown a strong inclination to work with Locatelli during his time involved with the national setup, yet the situation has changed significantly at club level. Since taking charge of Juventus, the manager has relied heavily on the midfielder, making him one of the most trusted figures in the squad.
Locatelli has responded positively to that confidence, delivering performances that highlight his importance to the team. Juventus have often struggled when he has been absent, which underlines the influence he now has within the side.
A Key Figure in the Juventus Midfield
Locatelli first established his reputation during his time at Sassuolo, where his displays attracted attention from several leading clubs. Juventus ultimately secured his signature after competing with Inter Milan for the midfielder, a move that represented a significant moment in his career.
Joining Juventus carried special meaning for the player, as he supported the club during his childhood. Representing the Bianconeri at the Allianz Stadium, therefore, fulfilled a long-held ambition, and he has consistently shown commitment whenever he has taken to the pitch.
Throughout his time in Turin, Locatelli has produced several strong performances and remains one of the most dedicated members of the squad. His professionalism and work rate have made him a reliable presence in midfield.
Renewed Confidence Under Spalletti
Juventus view Locatelli as one of the most valuable players within the current group, and there are no plans to consider selling him. His recent improvement in form has further strengthened that belief, particularly as the team continues to develop under Spalletti’s guidance.
The midfielder’s progress has also been recognised by individuals who worked with him earlier in his career. Mauro Bianchessi, who coached Locatelli during his youth development, believes the renewed trust from the manager has played a decisive role in his resurgence.
Speaking about the situation, Bianchessi explained his view as reported by Tuttomercatoweb.
Bianchessi said, “Manuel is a sensitive boy who needs to feel trusted. He’s strong, he’s a leader, and if he feels valued, he becomes a protagonist, expressing his full potential. Now, with Spalletti having placed his trust in him, Manuel has gone back to being a Locatelli.”
Feb 26, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; New Jersey Devils defenseman Simon Nemec (17) and center Dawson Mercer (91) talk on the ice against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the first period at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images | Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Here are your links for today:
Devils Links
Well!
Going to be interesting to see what happens on the Simon Nemec front. Devils are taking calls on the second overall pick from '22. No shortage of teams checking in. New Jersey happy to keep him, but if there's a deal that upgrades their forwards in a real way, they're going to…
“New Jersey made all defencemen available besides Luke Hughes and Brett Pesce. Simon Nemec switched agents, always a bad sign for an incumbent. That’s one reason he’s out there.” [Sportsnet]
“In simpler terms, the difference in what the Devils give up with Nemec on the ice vs. without is quite large – and not in a good way. Making those numbers more concerning is the fact he has not started many shifts in the defensive zone. Coaches have tried to keep him away from his own end as much as possible and he’s still giving up a ton. The Devils aren’t getting enough offense to compensate for his defense, which makes it reasonable to listen.” [Infernal Access ($)]
“A skilled puck-mover and former No. 2 pick, Nemec will be in line for a raise when his entry-level contract expires this summer. With the Devils enduring a difficult season and already having plenty of money committed elsewhere on their blue line, they’re listening to offers on the young right-shot defenseman. It will likely take an attractive forward being offered to pry Nemec out of New Jersey.” [The Athletic ($)]
Hockey Links
What should we expect from each team at the deadline? [Sportsnet]
A rundown of this trades leading up to today’s deadline: [NHL.com] [Daily Faceoff]
The Hawk* signs a blank check, Kirby Puckett departs this vale,and other stories.
On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, Bleed Cubbie Blue is pleased to present a Cubs-centric look at baseball’s colorful past. Here’s a handy Cubs timeline, to help you follow the various narrative paths.
“Maybe I called it wrong, but it’s official.” — Tom Connolly, HoF Umpire.
1987 – Free agent Andre Dawson* signs a one-year contract with the Cubs for the bargain-basement price of $650,000. Dawson had offered to sign a contract with the dollar amount left blank just so he could play on the natural grass at Wrigley Field and save his fragile knees. He will hit 49 home runs, lead the majors in RBIs, and win the 1987 N.L. MVP Award. (1,2)
2005 – Suzyn Waldman becomes the first woman to be a full-time color commentator in major league history, making her debut with John Sterling on WCBS-AM 880, the radio flagship of the New York Yankees. The former radio-talk host on WFAN, the first all-sports radio station in United States, was also the first female to broadcast on a national baseball telecast, as well as the first to provide local TV (Yankees) major league play-by-play. (2)
2016 – The Commissioner’s office overturns the two-game suspension handed to Dodgers IF Chase Utley for a dangerous slide that injured the Mets’Ruben Tejada in last year’s NLDS. The decision is because the rules regarding sliding at the time were too vague; they have since been strengthened. (2)
1521 – Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan discovers Guam.
1788 – The British First Fleet arrives at Australian territory of Norfolk Island to found a convict settlement.
1831 – Edgar Allan Poe court-martialed and dismissed from West Point military academy for gross neglect of duty and disobedience of orders.
1836 – Battle of the Alamo: After 13 days of fighting, 1,500-3,000 Mexican soldiers overwhelm the Texan defenders, killing 182-257 Texans including William Travis, Jim Bowie and Davy Crockett.
1857 – Dred Scott Decision: US Supreme Court rules Africans cannot be US citizens.
1869 – Dmitri Mendeleev presents the first periodic table of the elements to the Russian Chemical Society.
1918 – US naval boat “Cyclops” disappears in Bermuda Triangle. The ship was traveling from Barbados to Baltimore — it has never been found.
1964 – Boxing legend Cassius Clay joins the Nation of Islam and changes his name to “Muhammad Ali”, calling his former title a “slave name.”
Some of these items spread from site to site without being fact-checked, and that is why we ask for verifiable sources, in order to help correct the record.
ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 04: Running back Tyler Allgeier (25) of the Atlanta Falcons carries the ball during the week 18 NFL game between the Atlanta Falcons and the New Orleans Saints on Sunday January 4, 2026 at the Mercedes-Banz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
A new regime means new priorities, and with the 2026 NFL tampering window opening Monday, Jacksonville’s year-two free agency approach under Liam Coen, Grant Udinski, Anthony Campanile, and Heath Farwell is about to come into focus. We take a close look at the free agents who fit what this new Jaguars staff is building and what landing even one of these targets would mean for Duval’s 2026 outlook. With many high and low-tier free agent options being linked to Jacksonville, we take a look at the key position groups, and the options available at each.
*market valuations via OverTheCap and/or Spotrac
DT: Interior Pass Rush Targets (3)
DTJohn Franklin-Myers (Denver Broncos)
Age: 29
Pass Rush Win Rate: 12.7%
Expected Market Value (AAV): $14M
The most expensive defensive tackle option is also the most productive, and the only three-technique noted. Franklin-Myers finished last season tied for 18th in total pressures with 39, while his eight sacks ranked tied for fifth in the NFL, and his eight QB hits placed tied for 11th. His 12.7% pass rush win rate ranked tied for 15th via PFF. For a Jaguars team desperate for interior disruption, Franklin-Myers represents the simplest path to the highest ceiling. Though at $14 million per year, he carries the heftiest price tag of the three options and turns 30-years old in 2026. However, JFM provides the team a second pass rushing interior defensive lineman that is missing when Davon Hamilton is off the field, and a slightly younger tackle to take over for Arik Armstead.
Broncos DL John Franklin-Myers is the outside Free Agent I want for the Falcons
♦️6-4, 288 3-4 DE ♦️14.5 sacks last two seasons (prime) ♦️4th Round Pick from Stephen F. Austin ♦️Broncos STOLE him for 2yrs/$15M pic.twitter.com/JWKh76lMQP
Coming off a one-year, $5M deal in Houston, Rankins quietly put together one of the more well-rounded seasons of any interior lineman on the market. His 44 pressures and 10.9% pass rush win rate held up well, and his 61.2 PFF run-defense grade placed in the 73rd percentile at the position. At 31 years old there are durability questions, but his motivation coming out of Houston facing his former team twice a year, shouldn’t be overlooked. At $7.5 millionhe represents strong value, with a potential point to prove by staying in the AFC South.
The most affordable option presented may also be one of the most underrated. Reader posted a 68.5 overall PFF grade, 33rd out of 134 interior defensive linemen, along with a 71.8 pass-rush grade that ranked 24th among all defensive tackles in 2025. The 330-pound pocket pusher recorded 20 total pressures with the Lions and at a market value of just $3.3 million, represents a significant upgrade over DaVon Hamilton’s 3.6% pass rush win rate at a fraction of the cost. For a team building under a new regime with cap considerations in mind, Reader could be the most efficient move Jacksonville makes this offseason, though he will turn 32 this season, resulting in potentially a shorter-term contract.
LB: Filling the Lloyd Void (4)
Tremaine Edmunds (Chicago Bears)
Age: 27
Expected Market Value (AAV): ~$9M to $15M
Edmunds is a wildcard of this group. A recent addition to this list after being released by the Bears on Thursday, he finished 2025 with a stat line that looks excellent on the surface, 112 tackles, three tackles for loss, one sack, three QB hits, one fumble recovery, nine pass breakups, and four interceptions. At one point during the season he was among the league leaders in interceptions, and the 2023 contract that averaged $18M per year speaks to how the league valued him not long ago.
The context surrounding his release matters though. The Bears were in need of salary cap space, sitting at $4 million above the salary cap before releasing Edmunds, a move that saved them $15 million off the cap. Additionally, many in Chicago believe that Edmunds may have returned from a week 12 groin injury before he was fully ready, resulting in a final few games that showed it. In his first game back from a four-game absence beginning in week 12, he was targeted five times and surrendered five receptions for 46 yards. A source familiar with the situation suggested the injury had a more significant impact on his performance than the box score reflected. The cost uncertainty is likely the biggest obstacle. A market range spanning $9M on the low end to $17M at the high end makes him nearly impossible to project. At $9M he’s an interesting bet on a bounce-back season from a 27-year-old with legitimate upside. At $17M he becomes a tough sell for a team that needs to allocate resources across multiple positions this offseason. The number that lands on Edmunds will likely determine whether Jacksonville, or anyone else, takes the plunge. If his price gets anywhere close to the Devin Lloyd range, then Jacksonville will likely bow out due to similar cap constraints.
Linebackers with the most interceptions so far this year:
Walker is probably one of the most divisive names on this list, with the Green Bay fanbase mirroring the same split in opinions Jaguars’ fans had over Devin Lloyd before his breakout 2025 season. Walker led the Packers in tackles with 128 in 2025, but his coverage struggles were impossible to ignore, surrendering 653 yards when targeted, the fifth-most of any linebacker in the league. One source inside the Green Bay organization described him plainly as a two-down linebacker based on his 2025 tape. That characterization would normally be disqualifying. But here’s the wrinkle, Anthony Campanile was previously Walker’s linebackers coach and defensive run game coordinator in Green Bay. If Jacksonville pursues Walker, it becomes one of those trust-the-coach-who-knows-the-prospect-best situations. Campanile has seen Walker up close, knows exactly what he’s working with, and (in the chance he is added) clearly believes he can get more out of him than Green Bay did. It’s also worth noting the parallel to Lloyd, whose fifth-year option wasn’t picked up either, and who faced similar questions before flourishing. Walker is 25 years old with tackling ability Campanile clearly valued. The bet here would be that the right coaching in Jax unlocks the rest.
Alex Anzalone (Detroit Lions)
Age: 31
Expected Market Value (AAV): ~$7.5M
Anzalone is a close one-for-one replacement for what Devin Lloyd does in the middle of a defense, with the ability to hold up against the run and contribute meaningfully in the passing game. He slides into the Mike linebacker role without requiring much of an schematic adjustment, which matters enormously for a coaching staff who may be interested in keeping as much of the 2025 system the same as possible.
The primary concern with Alex is arguably age. At 31, Anzalone runs against the pattern of Jacksonville’s recent roster-building approach, which has skewed younger unless the signing was clearly a short-term stopgap, Eric Murray at 31 and Dennis Gardeck at 30 being the exceptions (with Gardeck’s deal being a one-year commitment). A Spotrac market value of around $7.5M would likely structure as a three-year deal with a two-year out, making it manageable, and frankly, that number is modest compared to what Lloyd is likely to command on the open market this offseason. If the Jaguars want the safest, most proven replacement for what Lloyd brought to this defense, Anzalone could be a solid option. The age and athleticism concern is real, but the fit is undeniable.
Leo Chenal (Kansas City Chiefs)
Age: 25
Expected Market Value (AAV): ~4.6M
Chenal has a devoted following in the advanced analytics community, and the traits conversation around him is legitimate. However, his usage data raises serious questions about whether free agent dollars are the right investment here. In his most-played season, Chenal was on the field for just 53% of defensive snaps, and of those snaps, he only lined up at a true linebacker position 44% of the time. In four NFL seasons he has never logged 450 defensive snaps in a single year. That makes a direct comparison to Devin Lloyd, who lined up at linebacker on 72% of his 2025 snaps, an almost impossible comparison. The profiles are so different that it becomes a pure traits conversation disconnected from on-field role, and spending meaningful free agent dollars on a player whose usage has been that limited is a difficult sell for me, when cheaper, scheme-ready options exist through the draft. Many love the player, and I can absolutely see why, but it’s hard to make the math work on Chenal in free agency as a replacement for Lloyd.
The other variable working against a big investment at linebacker is the internal depth already present. Jack Kiser was drafted with a future role in mind, and Ventrell Miller entered 2025 as a co-starter alongside Lloyd. There’s a legitimate argument that Jacksonville simply goes younger and cheaper at the position, allows Miller grow into the role, and allocates those dollars elsewhere.
CB: Stabilizing the Floor (3)
Jaylen Watson (Kansas City Chiefs)
Age: 25
Expected Market Value (AAV): ~$13M
Watson is a legitimate starting corner with the versatility to play inside and outside, posting a 74.9 PFF grade and a 5.8% missed tackle rate that ranked tied for ninth in the league in 2025. The profile is real, but so is the overlap, arguably. Watson operates in the same inside-outside flexible mold as Jaarian Jones and Jourdan Lewis, which raises a fair question about whether Jacksonville would be wise to pay $13M for a redundant skillset for this group. If the Jaguars’ priority is adding a corner who genuinely expands what the defense can do schematically, Watson may not be the most efficient path to get there. If they already like what they have in Jones, it’s hard to justify the $13 million price tag for more of the same, while needing a bonafide outside cornerback option.
Day one of posting my free agent targets for the #Commanders
1) Jaylen Watson – Chiefs CB
6-foot-2, 197 pounds 27 years old 69.0 passer rating when targeted 6 DEFLs 2 INTs 2 sacks 5.8% missed tackle rate
Well, this is awkward. In evaluating the outside cornerback market it’s hard not to circle back to Brown’s 2025 numbers, with a 74.0 PFF coverage grade and a 73.3 passer rating when targeted. For a fuller context, Montaric allowed 50 or more receiving yards in four separate games this year, but he also led the entire NFL in passer rating allowed when targeted in zone coverage at 45.8. Consistency and the ability to play more man coverage is arguably the concerns here, but at $9M there are fewer cleaner options available that don’t also carry baggage.
Eric Stokes (Las Vegas Raiders)
Age: 26
Expected Market Value (AAV): ~$7.5M
This is the most interesting name on the list for me, and the one that fits Jacksonville’s recent roster-building blueprint almost perfectly. Stokes took a one-year prove-it deal with the Raiders and delivered the best season of his career, posting a career-high 73.6 overall PFF grade, a 73.5 PFF coverage grade, and a 77.2 passer rating when targeted. He is exactly the kind of buy-low, bounce-back candidate coming off a career year that the Jaguars have consistently targeted under this new regime. The pitch is straightforward, Stokes is 26 years old, playing his best football, and looking to prove last season wasn’t a fluke. He’ll want to earn real money, which means the deal structure likely favors Jacksonville with a modest base and meaningful incentives attached. Critically, signing Stokes at $7.5M doesn’t close the door on drafting a cornerback either, which preserves flexibility in a draft class that could offer genuine value at the position. For a team that needs to be thoughtful about where the big dollars go this offseason, Stokes could represent the kind of calculated, low-risk addition that quietly makes a roster better without breaking the bank.
The NFL cornerbacks who allowed the fewest yards per coverage snap in 2025 (min. 200 cov. snaps):
🔒 Eric Stokes, LV – 0.5 🔒 Pat Surtain II, DEN – 0.6 🔒 Joey Porter Jr., PIT – 0.6 🔒 James Pierre, PIT – 0.6 🔒 Tre’Davious White, BUF – 0.6 🔒 Quinyon Mitchell, PHI – 0.7 🔒… pic.twitter.com/nFkg0qIDE1
Dowdle has quietly built up one of the more consistent production profiles of any back in this free agent class. He followed up an 1,100-yard season in Dallas with a near-1,100-yard campaign in Carolina on a $3M contract. His career average of more than 3.0 yards after contact per carry speaks to a player who doesn’t go down easy. The volatility of his 2025 season with the Panthers’ offense, genuine high points mixed with stretches of underwhelming production, may actually work in Jacksonville’s favor at the negotiating table, suppressing a market that might otherwise price him out of consideration. Dowdle fits best as a complementary hammer in a backfield rotation rather than a featured back carrying 20-plus touches per game, and with the right shared mix with Bhayshul Tuten that’s exactly what he can be in Jacksonville.
Durability and consistency are Allgeier’s calling cards and it’s a genuinely rare combination. He has never missed an NFL game across four professional seasons, accumulated 20 total touchdowns, and has never fumbled in 737 career touches. Not once. Also, his 3.1 yards after contact per attempt over that span ranks as a top-30 mark among running backs league-wide. For an offense that wants a physical, reliable presence in the backfield who won’t cost them possessions or miss time, Allgeier, seemingly, checks every box. The lack of fumbles alone makes him the kind of low-maintenance, high-trust option that offensive coordinators quietly love having available on a football roster.
Rashard White (Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Age: 26
Expected Market Value (AAV): ~$3.0M
White may be the most intriguing name on this entire list, relative to cost. He ranked fourth among all running backs in PFF rushing grade at 87.2 in 2025, graded in the 98th percentile on gap runs, and the 94th percentile on zone runs (meaning he is genuinely elite in both run-game contexts, which is exceptionally rare). He also recorded zero drops on 42 targets in the passing game, making him a complete back who won’t be a liability on third downs. At a market value of just $3 million, White represents one of the cleaner value plays in the entire free agent running back class. His versatility in both gap and zone schemes also opens up a schematic conversation for Jacksonville, should the Jaguars want to incorporate more man/gap concepts up front, White gives them a back already proven to thrive in exactly that environment. At that price point, and with experience in this system under Coen, this signing could easily mirror the buy-low nature of Center, Robert Hainsey’s stabilizing signing last offseason from Tampa.
Tight End Depth Needed
David Njoku (Cleveland Browns)
Age: 29
Expected Market Value (AAV): ~$10M
The case for Njoku starts and ends with his blocking. Coming off a down year in Cleveland and having missed 11 games over the past two seasons, the 29-year-old still brings a blocking profile worth respecting, and in a different cap situation, a backup role behind Brenton Strange at a discounted rate would be an interesting conversation. But, I’m not sure if the math works for Jacksonville right now for the backup tight end role at this pay range. Paying $10M annually for a backup tight end on a roster with this wide receiver core and this many positional needs elsewhere is a difficult allocation to justify, regardless of what Njoku brings on the field. His limited suitor pool for a starting role may eventually push his market value down to a more reasonable number. But unless that price drops significantly, Jacksonville’s cap situation makes him a luxury the Jaguars likely can’t (responsibly) pursue this offseason.
Charlie Kolar (Baltimore Ravens)
Age: 26
Expected Market Value (AAV): ~$1.7M
Kolar is exactly the kind of under-the-radar addition that quietly improves a roster without demanding cap space or attention. Deployed primarily as Baltimore’s third tight end, he finished 2025 as the 16th highest-graded tight end in the NFL per PFF and 15th in run blocking. Those are numbers that would make him a legitimate contributor rather than solely a depth filler in Jacksonville’s system. He also set a career high with 142 receiving yards, showing flashes as a pass catcher to keep defenses honest. At around $2 million, Kolar is the kind of low-cost, high-competence addition that fits seamlessly into what the Jaguars need behind their starter, a reliable blocker who can catch, won’t cost meaningful cap space, and won’t limit Jacksonville’s ability to invest elsewhere. If Jacksonville learned anything from Brenton Strange’s 2025 injury, it’s that adequate tight end depth matters. Strange played in 12 games. Hunter Long played in only 9 and was often outsnapped by Quintin Morris following the bye week. Kolar could be among the first calls made at the position, even with Wednesday’s Morris extension.
Who are your favorite free agent targets for Jacksonville, BigCatCountry? Let us know in the comments!
TAMPA, FLORIDA - JANUARY 03: Cade Otton #88 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers runs the ball after a catch during the first quarter against the Carolina Panthers during a game at Raymond James Stadium on January 03, 2026 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) | Getty Images
After last season’s 5-12 finish, one thing is abundantly clear for Washington football fans. The team needs to add a significant amount of talent during the offseason. While Adam Peters will continue to use the draft, the Commanders GM will also have an estimated $82 million in cap space at his disposal after various projected restructures, releases, and dead cap hits. Jayden Daniels is entering his third year, and the clock is ticking on the franchise quarterback’s rookie contract, making this arguably the most critical free agency of the new millennium for Washington. With free agency set to open on March 11th, Hogs Haven will be working to bring you articles on potential targets to fill various positions of need:
In each article, we will briefly summarize the team’s current situation at the position, traits the coaching staff will prioritize, along with a list of the top free agents and a detailed look at a few players that fit the team at different projected average annual values (AAV), typically one high-, one moderate-, and one low-cost contract.
Today, we finish out the top needs with a look at the tight ends.
Position Summary
Currently Under Contract:
Ben Sinnott: On 3rd year of rookie deal.
John Bates: On 2nd year of 3-year deal.
Colson Yankoff : On last year of 3-year deal.
Tyree Jackson: Restricted free agent
Luke Cager: Reserve/Future contract
Significant Free Agents:
Zach Ertz
The tight end room is in better shape than some, with Ben Sinnott’s full potential yet to be determined. John Bates has developed into one of the league’s best blockers and an occasional receiving threat. UDFA Colson Yankoff started as a plus special teams player but has also shown enough to be a strong depth piece. Tyree Jackson will almost certainly not be tendered. Luke Cager has bounced on and off the practice squad but was signed to a reserve/future contract in January. Zach Ertz should not be in the team’s plans unless there is an in-season emergency. New offensive coordinator David Blough is expected to take some of Ben Johnson’s offense and blend it with more traditional West Coast concepts. Expect more play-action with tight end involvement, and the team should prioritize a player who can work the seams and be a red zone threat.
The projected contracts for tight ends have cooled considerably since the start of the offseason. With Kyle Pitts officially off the market, Isaiah Likely is likely to negotiate a large contract with at least one team. Fortunately, the free agent market is good if not great this year, and there are plenty of other options.
Cade Otton is not necessarily great at anything, but conversely, he isn’t terrible at anything either. In four years with the Buccaneers, Otton has appeared in 63 games with 58 starts. On 300 career targets, he notched 207 catches for 2,018 yards and 11 touchdowns. He’s an every-down type tight end averaging over 92-percent of the Buccaneers total offensive snaps for the past three years. Otton might not blow anybody away with his blocking, but he gets the job done and you can run any personnel group you want with him on the field. Cade is not overly dominant as a wide receiver but takes advantage of mismatches and soft spots in coverage:
There are a couple of problems with Otton. One, he is one of the few tight ends that does not wear gloves and has a history of drops at times. The other is he tends to vanish from games from time to time.
While not dynamic, Otton is an all-around competent tight end, which still has value, especially in a league that heavily utilizes two tight end sets. The biggest issue with Otton is his price tag. At one point he was projected with an AAV of $11M but is currently listed at under $8M. Established reliability may be valuable for the Commanders, who could be willing to pay more to guarantee Daniels and Blough have the tight end they need for the offense.
I wrote about Okonkwo earlier in the offseason and you may find that profile here. Since that article published, Spotrac has adjusted his AAV down to $8M.
David Blough will still need a weapon in the passing game, and Adam Peters may look to the AFC to find the right fit. Chigozeim Okonwko was drafted in the fourth round of the 2022 draft by the Titans and has consistently contributed in the passing game, leading the team in receiving for 2025. Tennessee also enjoyed a breakout season from their rookie fourth-round selection, Gunnar Helm, and Chig has indicated he plans to leave Tennessee this offseason. While Okonkwo is a marginal blocker and on the smaller side for tight ends, he thrives in the short-to-intermediate passing game and excels at producing yards-after-contact.
Chig would appear to be an ideal free agent to pair with the likes of Ben Sinnott and John Bates and would give Blough the option he needs in the passing game. The problem comes from the tight end’s projected 3-year, $35 million contract, which may be a little rich for Adam Peters. However, I still think the Commanders GM will at least pursue Okonwko in free agency. The reason? Much like the running back market, free agency has several potential marquee names at the position including Kyle Pitts, Dallas Goedert, Isiah Likely, and David Njoku. When you add in Chig’s smaller size and inconsistent overall game, I believe the free agent tight end will ink a deal for less than his current projection. How much less? In my estimation, a three-year, $28 million deal should be enough to get the job done and add a dynamic threat for the Washington Commanders’ newest coordinator.
On the surface, Greg Dulcich would appear to be an underwhelming option, even at a bargain-basement price. After posting 411 receiving yards and two scores on 33 catches across 10 games in 2022, the 25-year-old only appeared in six total contests and made a nominal impact across the next two seasons. Ultimately, he was cut by the Broncos in 2024 and claimed off waivers by the Giants. Greg was released by the New York Giants before the regular season and signed to the Dolphins practice squad in 2025.
Here’s where it gets interesting: after being elevated to the active roster mid-season, he finished on a nine-game run in which he recorded 335 yards and a touchdown on 26 receptions. Dulchich averaged a hefty 2.7 yards per route run from Week 9 on—the second-best mark in the league among qualifying tight ends:
The undrafted free agent has a history of inconsistent play and repetitive hamstring injuries, along with substandard run blocking. Still, there’s a reason to think he might be a fit for the Commanders. Dulcich’s rookie breakout came in 2022 when Nathaniel Hackett ceded play-calling duties to none other than Klint Kubiak. When he joined the Dolphins, some fans postulated that Dulcich could be a fit in Mike McDaniel’s offense as well which proved to be true. Both offensive coordinators utilize concepts from the Shanahan scheme, which David Blough is expected to emulate. There is a very good chance Dulcich would be a fit in Washington’s new offense.
Greg might not have the upside of super, no-longer-sleeper Charlie Kolar, but for $1.1M AAV, he would provide the rookie offensive coordinator a clear “F” tight end that is currently not on the roster.
Bottom Line
While the tight end room could use an infusion of talent, the necessary amount is up for debate. Adding a receiving threat would seem to be a requirement, but ultimately it will depend on how David Blough and Ben Steele view Ben Sinnott and the other depth in the room. The draft will certainly be an option with a lot of value available in the middle rounds. However, late round tight ends are rarely called upon to start right away. There are plenty of options in the free agency market that vary in skill level and price, including recently released Jonnu Smith and Will Dissly. Any investment they make at the tight end position over the next couple of weeks should be a strong indicator of how they view Ben Sinnott headed into the 2026 season.
Dec 18, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Rashid Shaheed (22) celebrates after defeating the Los Angeles Rams in overtime at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images | Kevin Ng-Imagn Images
In every free agency cycle, there are those transactions that move the needle in a big-story sense, and there are those transactions that make the most difference in a purely football sense.
As we all know over time, those two kinds of deals don’t always match. For every big-ticket free-agent signing that the teams and (possibly fired) executives pull off to their eternal regret, there are more of the kind that make bad teams good, good teams great, and great teams of championship caliber.
These are the signings of underrated players constructed by those franchises that do things the right way, by paying just as much attention to the bottom third of the roster as they do to the top five players at any given time. Those types of hyper-valuable players are available at the beginning of every league year; it’s just up to which shot-callers are smart enough to realize they are.
Now that the 2026 cycle will begin unofficially on Monday, March 9, and officially on Wednesday, March 11, here are five Secret Superstars of free agency on the offensive side of the ball — players whose exploits do not get the credit deserved, and are now ready to help turn their next stops into better places to be.
Gainwell was selected in the fifth round of the 2021 draft out of Memphis by the Philadelphia Eagles, and over the next four seasons, he had some nice moments as a rotational back, particularly as a receiver. But what happened after the Pittsburgh Steelers signed him to a one-year, $1.79 million contract with $620,000 guaranteed was entirely unexpected. Because if Gainwell’s 2025 productivity was on anybody’s radar, he would have bagged a better deal than that.
As a runner, Gainwell totaled 557 yards and five touchdowns on 120 carries (4.6 yards per attempt), with 23 forced missed tackles, and six runs of 15 or more yards. But it was as a receiver that Gainwell shocked the league. Only Christian McCaffrey and Bijan Robinson had more catches among running backs in the 2025 season than Gainwell’s 77 on 87 targets, which he parlayed into 512 yards (6.6 yards per catch) and three more touchdowns.
And dude wasn’t just catching slip screens out of the backfield, either — 17 of his catches and 22 of his targets came when he was lined up in the slot or out wide, and overall, he made things happen with an understanding of routes that you don’t generally see from running backs.
Now that the word’s out about Gainwell as a pass-catcher, and occasional explosive play merchant as a runner, teams with a need for a particular kind of productivity out of their backs may well be looking to give him a mid-tiered deal that may have been unfathomable a year ago.
Kenneth Gainwell outside and in the slot. The Steelers haven't had a back who could run receiver routes like this since Le'Veon Bell's heyday. pic.twitter.com/tVIS1dR09i
Dowdle was an undrafted free agent out of South Carolina in 2020 ultimately signed by the Dallas Cowboys, and it took him three seasons to make any sort of impact in Big D. But he finally got his shot in 2024, after then-head coach Mike McCarthy admitted that Dowdle probably should have gotten more reps than he did.
Dallas had been hoping that Ezekiel Elliott had more in the tank that season, but he didn’t, and Dowdle was able to take advantage with a season in which he totaled 1,079 yards on 241 carries (4.9 yards per attempt) with 45 forced missed tackles, and nine runs of 15 or more yards. The 6’0”, 215-pound Dowdle also caught 40 passes on 48 targets for 303 yards and a touchdown, and while his receiving profile wasn’t the same as Gainwell’s (much more of a backfield guy), Dowdle was able to prove his effective versatility.
That one season should have given the Cowboys enough to offer Dowdle a new deal, but that didn’t happen. Instead, he signed a one-year, $2.75 million contract with the Carolina Panthers that had an additional $3.5 million in incentives, all of which Dowdle had no issue hitting. In Carolina, he gained 1,085 yards on 241 carries (4.5 yards per attempt) with six touchdowns, 35 forced missed tackles, and 10 runs of 15 or more yards. He also had a 23-carry, 206-yard game against the Miami Dolphins in Week 5, and followed that up a week later with a 30-carry, 183-yard barnburner against the Cowboys… just to prove a point.
Dowdle is a schematically diverse runner who isn’t tied to gap or inside/outside zone; he’s now proven that he can be productive at a surprisingly high level, and his next contract should reflect that accordingly.
Gap, inside zone, outside zone… it didn't matter. Rico Dowdle was going to run the ball right down the @MiamiDolphins' throats.
Was he a Secret Superstar? No, but he probably should have been.
When the New York Giants selected the 5’8”, 178-pound Wan’Dale Robinson in the second round of the 2022 draft out of Kentucky, it was based on a 2021 season in which Robinson caught 104 passes on 140 targets for 1,342 yards (12.9 yards per catch), seven touchdowns, and all kinds of explosive plays you might not expect from a guy his size. Robinson wasn’t just running gadget plays; he was out there with a full route tree, ad his 22 explosive plays came in multiple concepts to every area of the field.
So, it shouldn’t be a complete surprise that Robinson has been as productive in the NFL as he has, though you’d be forgiven for overlooking it, because you’d have to watch the Giants’ offense. But the G-Men deployed Robinson in ways you would never expect from a receiver that size, and he answered the call over and over… especially on third down.
In 2024, Robinson had the NFL’s most third-down targets with 58, and he caught 34 of those targets for 304 yards, 119 yards after the catch, 17 first downs, and two touchdowns. In 2025, Robinson had the NFL’s sixth-most third-down targets with 46, catching 25 for 302 yards, 104 yards after the catch, 14 first downs, and one touchdown.
No, Robinson is never going to be anybody’s WR1 — size is a skill, and he unfortunately doesn’t have it. But in another varied passing game, he could continue to amaze with what he is able to do, especially on money downs.
A selection of Wan'Dale Robinson's third-down targets last season, because he's had more of them over the last two years than just about any NFL receiver. What strikes me is how fearless he is over the middle for a guy his size. pic.twitter.com/CHoAL7fU0x
Statistics never tell the whole story, and that’s more true in football than in any other sport because of the interdependent nature of the thing. One player’s excellence might not show up at all from a metrics perspective, but that excellence may well be the reason you’re winning games when you otherwise wouldn’t.
Welcome to the world of Rashid Shaheed and the 2025 Seattle Seahawks.
Seattle traded 2026 fourth- and fifth-round picks to the New Orleans Saints for Shaheed’s services on November 4, and without that deal, it could be said that there would be no Lombardi Trophy in the Emerald City right now. Shaheed’s numbers were decent enough — 18 catches on 33 targets for 266 yards, as well as 32.5 yards per kick return and 15.1 yards per punt return with three special teams touchdowns — but it was the threat of his existence as a deep threat that changed Seattle’s passing game for the better down the stretch, and especially in the NFC Championship game, a 31-27 win over the Los Angeles Rams.
Shaheed was in an unusual spot in that he played against the Rams four times last season — once with the Saints, and three times with the Seahawks — and every time, he made his presence known. In the game that got the Seahawks to Super Bowl LX, Rams defenders were taking him up the field two at a time because they had to, and that led directly to two of three Sam Darnold touchdown passes to other receivers.
Rashid Shaheed was a major part of two Sam Darnold touchdowns last night. Clearout vertical guy on both plays, and took two defenders with him each time. The underneath stuff doesn't happen without him. pic.twitter.com/q0ycCes4zD
This should make Shaheed valuable to any team that understands why the numbers don’t always tell the tale; you have to look at effect on the field, and few in the NFL made that more clear last season.
Goedert had already been a big part of various Nick Sirianni passing games over the years, but 2025 was his best season to date, as he caught 64 passes on 85 targets for 624 yards (9.8 yards per catch) and a career-high 12 touchdowns. That Goedert did all of this in an passing game run by Sirianni and now former offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo that helped absolutely nobody should have other teams interested in Goedert as he enters his age 31 season.
Goedert has never been a vertical stretch receiver; what he does at a high level is to provide his quarterback with a safety net in that he knows how to get open in short areas and on time — something that showed up last season even when the route “concepts” were conceptual in name only. Last season, only Trey McBride of the Arizona Cardinals had more touchdowns on throws of 0-9 air yards among NFL tight ends than Goedert’s five — overall on those throws, he caught 47 passes on 57 targets for 365 yards.
Yes, Goedert can make things happen on seams and other intermediate routes, and he’s occasionally good for an air yards special downfield, but his real value would be maximized with any team getting a young quarterback up to speed. Because he’d be that young quarterback’s best friend from Day 1.
Dallas Goedert led all tight ends in touchdowns last season despite the fact that the Eagles' offense should have been locked in a shed and set on fire.
Spain: footballer faces 10 and a half years in prison for sexual assault
Spain: footballer faces 10 and a half years in prison for sexual assault
Spain: footballer faces 10 and a half years in prison for sexual assault
Spanish footballer Rafa Mir is facing severe legal charges. The Spanish prosecutor's office has requested 10 and a half years in prison for an aggravated crime of sexual assault, following incidents that occurred in September 2024.
The Elche striker faces up to 10 and a half years behind bars for aggravated sexual assault. In addition to the prison sentence, the public prosecutor is demanding: a 13-year restraining order prohibiting him from approaching the victim within 500 meters; an 8-year ban from any activity related to minors; €64,000 in compensation to be paid to the victim; and 7 years of supervised release after serving his sentence.
Case background
Rafa Mir was arrested in September 2024 while playing for Valencia, on loan from Sevilla. The complaint was filed by a woman, alleging aggravated sexual assault with physical contact and injuries. The events reportedly took place after a meeting at a nightclub, followed by a visit to the victim's home, in the presence of two of the player's friends and a friend of the complainant.
A career in jeopardy
Already embroiled in controversy for racist remarks just days before the case emerged, the Spanish striker now sees his career seriously threatened as the legal process advances.
Rafa Mir appeared at court No. 8 in Llíria, Valencia, escorted by the Civil Guard, for his hearing after spending two days in police custody.
The biggest and most chaotic day of the NHL Calendar is here!
The 2026 NHL trade deadline is today (March 6) at 3 PM Eastern, with teams either loading up for a playoff run or selling players and preparing for the future. Boston’s place in that pile however…is less certain than it was last year.
While yes, the Bruins just came off of an objectively miserable contest against the Predators, it’s important to remember a lot of the same problems that they’ve had throughout the year just reared their ugly head all over again, and a particularly bad team got to take advantage this time. To recap: Boston’s defense is in dire need of an overhaul, their backup goaltender is rubber-bands between great and AHL backup level, and their offense sort of requires their best players to be on B+ at bare minimum to get anywhere.
That said! They are still in a playoff spot. Just barely, and definitely not making it easy to suggest they’ll keep it with how the Blue Jackets are playing, but they still have that spot for now. The only teams in conference that play tonight either already have their playoff spots all but officially locked up or playing western conference teams. There are names floating in the ionosphere on who the B’s may or may not be in on, but until they get confirmation, the Bruins simply need to work the phones until they either get more draft capital, or they get a player who could really help things along.
As a reminder!:
News of deals often trickles in a little after 3 PM, so don’t be surprised if some things are announced after the deadline.
This isn’t nearly as big of a problem as it used to be, but double-check that you’re looking at a genuine profile (and not a parody account) if you’re sharing a link from Twitter/Bluesky/Threads/etc. etc.
Bruins GM Don Sweeney will likely have a media availability sometime in the 4-5 PM range on Friday afternoon.
B’s moves so far
Still gotta make ‘em, Donny!
Let’s all enjoy the fireworks! What move has surprised you the most out of everything done so far?
Personally, I did not expect the John Carlson trade to Anaheim.
Triumph or tragedy awaits as Rangers and Celtic go ahead again
There’s nothing in Scottish football quite like the Glasgow Derby and after last weekend’s drama in the Scottish Premiership, the game’s fiercest rivals go head-to-head once agains in the Scottish Cup quarter final at Ibrox this Sunday…
Kieran Tierney scoring at Ibrox. theRangers v Celtic. 1st March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou
The sides have already met four times this season with both Celtic and theRangers having enjoyed the sweetest tasted of a Glasgow Derby triumph while the other two matches (both played at Ibrox) ended in draws.
Celtic will have 8000 supporters at Ibrox on Sunday
Celtic go to Ibrox on Sunday with around 8000 Hoops supporters there to cheer them on in the full – and free – Broomloan stand, the first time the traditional allocation has happened since March 2018, the day Celtic supporters call Beautiful Sunday. It absolutely broke the Rangers support who had endures so many painful defeats to Celtic on their own turf.
Kieran Tierney celebrates after scoring at Ibrox. theRangers v Celtic. 1st March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou
It’s been closer this season and there will be no draw this weekend, that’s the only certainty because the Scottish cup quarter-final will be played to a conclusion with extra time and penalty both options. The Celtic support will be loud and so will the reduced numbers in the home support, which will mean that this fixture, once called The Old Firm and now known as the Glasgow Derby, will be a much better spectacle with both sets of fans adding to the noise.
Ibrox noise will be weakened on Sunday by a loud and large Celtic support
Last weekend fans of theRangers created a wall of noise that the Celtic players struggled to cope with in the first half and the home side were 2-0 ahead at the break. Celtic’s ticket allocation was just 1800 for that match but the much bigger support will help the Hoops this weekend,
Daizen Maeda forces the penalty at Ibrox. theRangers 2 Celtic 2. Sunday 1st March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou
Unusually for Celtic, they are not top of the league and pulling away towards yet another title. Celtic have won 13 titles over the past 14 seasons, losing only the 2020/21 title which of course was the covid season. It turned out that without the Celtic support behind them the team simply couldn’t function.
That said theRangers aren’t top of the league either, they are now in third place, one point behind Celtic after Martin O’Neill’s side won their game in hand against Aberdeen up at Pittodrie in the midweek in the game played in between these two massive Glasgow Derbies.
Reo Hatate’s penalty is saved but he scores from the rebound. theRangers 2 Celtic 2.Sunday 1st March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou
Hearts were the winners in last weekend’s Glasgow Derby draw
Rather remarkably Hearts lead the Scottish Premiership table, five points ahead of Celtic and six points ahead of the Rangers and a title triumph for the Edinburgh side for the first time since the early 1960s would feel like a Admiral Casino jackpot win for the Jambos if they can actually win the league this season. The Tynecastle club, managed by Derek McInnes the former Rangers FC midfielder, beat Aberdeen last Saturday afternoon to extend their advantage by another three points then settled down to enjoy both of their title rivals dropping points in last Sunday’s 2-2 draw.
Reo Hatate scores at Ibrox. theRangers 2 Celtic 2. Sunday 1st March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou
Kris Boyd, the Sky Sports pundit had commented on this scenario as the pre-match build-up got underway and his assessment was that the loser last Sunday would effectively drop out of the title race. It’s perhaps no surprise that the Glasgow Derby ended in a draw and the real winners were of course Hearts.
Celtic’s Historic win in Germany
Before heading to Ibrox last weekend Celtic had a rather awkward fixture in Germany in a Europa League play-off that was already lost with the 4-1 home defeat to VfB Stuttgart. Martin O’Neill side put in an outstanding performance to win the match through a Luke McCowan goal inside the first 30 seconds and this was a notable, historic result as it was actually the club’s first ever competitive win on German soil.
Kieran Tierney at Pittodrie. Scottish Premiership. Wednesday 4th March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou
Martin O’Neill has had central defender Auston Trusty suspended for three matches, covering both Glasgow Derby matches and next weekend’s game against Motherwell, who are now the fourth title contenders in Scotland. Trusty was replaced by Dane Murray at Ibrox but he was then injured in the warm up at Pittodrie and looks set to miss this weekend’s match. There is also a major injury concern for Kieran Tierney – who scored at both Ibrox and Pittodrie – who suffered an ankle injury against Aberdeen.
Martin O’Neill relishes the Glasgow Derby matches
Brendan Rodgers was in the dugout for the 0-0 draw at Ibrox and Wilfried Nancy was the Celtic manager for the most recent encounter between the sides at Celtic Park, the 3-1 win for theRangers at Celtic Park. Martin O’Neill delivered Celtic’s 3-1 win over theRangers at Hampden in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final at Hampden Park in his first spell as interim Celtic manager this season and in his second interim spell in a crazy old season for Celtic, he picked up a valuable point last weekend with that second half fight back with goals from Tierney and Reo Hatate.
Callum McGregor celebrates. Aberdeen v Celtic, Scottish Premiership. Wednesday 4th March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou
Celtics attention will then turn back to Ibrox for the second leg of the double header Glasgow Derby, this time in the Scottish Cup as both sides look to win a place in the semi-finals at Hampden Park.
Free Broomloan stand
Celtic’s support for this cup-tie will be significantly higher with the green and white half of Glasgow situated in the Free Broomloan stand, the first time this has happened since Beautiful Sunday in March 2018. After yet another Celtic victory against the latest Ibrox club, the Rangers supporter lobbied their new club to reduce the ticket allocation for Celtic supporters from 8000 down to around 800.
While the allocation has increased recently to 5% of the stadium capacity (a move Celtic has reciprocated for games against theRangers at Celtic Park), for the Scottish Cup, under competition rules set by the Scottish FA, the away side can ask for up to 20% of the allocation. Accordingly Celtic could have demanded just over 10,000 tickets but settled instead for a return to the traditional allocation at Ibrox against both versions of Rangers, by accepting all tickets in the Broomloan with tickets costing over £50. Celtic stand to make around £1m from their share of the revenue from this cup-tie, making it one of the most lucrative matches ever played between two Scottish clubs.
Martin O’Neill at Ibrox. theRangers 2 Celtic 2. Sunday 1st March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou
Triumph or tragedy awaits
But the real prize is a victory and that’s exactly what the Celtic supporters will be looking for. Triumph or tragedy awaits where the winner takes it all while the loser takes one mighty fall. The stakes in every Glasgow Derby match are high but this time in the Scottish Cup they are through the roof.
Sep 18, 2022; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush (10) and Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (91) in action during the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Cincinnati Bengals at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
It has been reported that the Cowboys were close to a deal for Maxx Crosby, but the price became too high.
The Dallas Cowboys are clearly looking to bring an elite pass rusher to the roster. And Maxx Crosby might be the most popular name linked to the team. Whether the Las Vegas Raiders would be receptive to trading Crosby remains to be seen. But if they do, the Cowboys are reportedly not willing to give up multiple first-round picks.
“On Maxx Crosby and the Cowboys being at play here,” NFL Network’s Jane Slater began via X. “Here is what I’m being told from a team source. ‘Raiders are talking to a lot of people. But we would not give up two first rounders.’ That’s the situation now. Will that change? I don’t know but I checked for those of you interested.”
Dallas Cowboys reportedly shifting focus away from Maxx Crosby
The report from Slater came before Trey Wingo said Dallas might be out of the Crosby sweepstakes. Trey Hendrickson is who he believes owner/general manager Jerry Jones will now make a run at.
“Things are moving fast re Maxx Crosby,” Wingo said via X. “Last night Dallas thought they were close to a deal but since then other teams have raised the ante and potentially are offering the Raiders 2 1st round picks. Expected Dallas to now shift their focus to Trey Hendrickson.”
The Dallas Cowboys are clearly on the hunt for a pass rusher. We can fast forward through the jokes. You know the ones. Imagine if the Cowboys had one of the best pass rushers in the league on their team! Someone like, I don’t know, Micah Parsons!
No one is interested in re-visiting matters from the past as it seems (famous last words) the Cowboys are focused on doing something in the future that can help turn things around. You know, by avoiding the things that helped build The Drought™.
Addressing the pass rush in free agency appears to be a top priority.
Trey Hendrickson is an option after Maxx Crosby
On Thursday there was a report that the Cowboys had checked in on Las Vegas Raiders pass rusher Maxx Crosby. “Checking in” is standard protocol and good for the Cowboys for having done so, but it seems like he may go for more than they are willing to pay. Everybody has a price.
Crosby could only become a Cowboy right now by way of trade and that stipulation does not apply to Trey Hendrickson. A former NFL sack leader, Hendrickson is set to hit the open market, and according to Trey Wingo the Cowboys are set to pursue him if they do not land Crosby as noted.
The Cowboys were reportedly interested in Hendrickson before last season’s deadline (Crosby as well) and ultimately wound up making a deal for Quinnen Williams. That Williams deal absorbed draft capital that makes acquiring Crosby a bit difficult these days.
This one was a bit surprising this early in the offseason.
FRISCO, Texas — On Thursday, the Cowboys waived defensive tackle Perrion Winfrey.
Winfrey, 25, appeared in one game for Dallas in the 2025 season against the Chargers in Week 16. He recorded 34 defensive snaps and two total tackles. Winfrey was on injured reserve for a majority of the season with a back injury he suffered in the preseason.
The Cowboys added Winfrey just before the beginning of their 2025 training camp in Oxnard, California after a year with the UFL’s Birmingham Stallions, where he was named to the 2025 All-UFL team.
Winfrey has played in 15 total NFL games since being drafted in the fourth-round by the Cleveland Browns in 2022, and now has an opportunity to seek the fourth NFL team he could play for in 2026.
The Cowboys have had a history of signing players from the UFL ranks, and the Stallions specifically, as WR KaVontae Turpin and kicker Brandon Aubrey were also Birmingham products.
The defensive tackle position is one that the Cowboys feel they have good depth in. Quinnen Williams, Kenny Clark, Osa Odighizuwa and Solomon Thomas were a strong quartet for Dallas in 2025, and will likely look to do the same again in 2026.
In doing so, the Cowboys know that they’ll need to free up some cap space from the group. At present, the trio of Williams, Clark and Odighizuwa is set to cost Dallas around $64 million against the cap in 2026.
At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, Cowboys owner/GM Jerry Jones said that would not be the case for long.
The Cowboys fired defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus after just one year in the role. Dallas finished the regular season allowing the most points (30.1) and passing yards (251.5) per game, and changes clearly had to be made.
Eberflus, who previously served as head coach of the Chicago Bears for three seasons, was suddenly out of a job after the Cowboys decided to move on, but he’s now landed back on his feet with another NFC team.
San Francisco 49ers Hire Matt Eberflus to New Role
Per reports from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the San Francisco 49ers have hired Eberflus as the assistant head coach of defense.
Eberflus, 55, has over a decade of NFL coaching experience but will likely have to work his way back up if he wants to land a future role as a head coach or defensive coordinator again at some point. It’s certainly not a stretch to say that this past season in Dallas was a dent in his resume.
The 20-year-old's previous contract was set to expire at the end of the 2027/28 season but he will now stay for at least a season longer after penning a new three-and-half-year deal with the Seagulls.
"I am delighted we have secured Jack’s future here," said Brighton boss Fabian Hürzeler on the player's new deal. "He has a very bright future ahead of him, and continues to grow and develop all the time.
"Jack is the ideal role model for our academy players and is a fantastic reflection of the hard work the academy staff have put in with him over his time here.
"After making his breakthrough at such a young age, he was already fully integrated into the first team when I arrived and he is growing into a leader in the dressing room."
Since making his debut in 2023, midfielder Hinshelwood has featured 70 times for Brighton scoring nine goals and making four assists.
Red Roses star Ellie Kildunne is stuck in Dubai and will miss this weekend’s Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR) fixture for her club Harlequins.
A joint statement from the Rugby Football Union (RFU), PWR, Harlequins and Loughborough Lightning confirmed that Kildunne and Red Roses team-mate Sadia Kabeya travelled to Dubai for a short break during the competition’s reserve week.
The statement said that Kildunne and Kabeya have been unable to return home as planned, due to the ongoing airspace disruption caused by the conflict in the region. The first flight chartered by the UK government to evacuate nationals in the Middle East landed on Friday, but thousands remain stranded.
Kildunne, one of the stars of England’s World Cup victory last summer, will therefore miss Harlequins’ home match against Saracens, with the joint statement confirming that the full-back and Lightning back-row Kabeya are in contact with their clubs and the RFU.
“Both players have registered their presence with the UK government to receive official updates and guidance,” the statement added. “Both Ellie and Sadia are in contact with the RFU, PWR and their clubs and will continue to be supported throughout this period. They will return to England as soon as it is possible to do so.”
Ukraine is leading the list of countries not attending the opening ceremony in Verona to protest the decision of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) to allow Russian athletes to compete under their own flag and with their national anthem. The Russian flag hasn’t been flown at the Paralympics since the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi, while the national anthem has not been heard at any Olympics or Paralympics since the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Summer Games.
The opening ceremony will take place at the Arena di Verona, marking the first time a Paralympic ceremony is held at a UNESCO World Heritage site. The ancient Arena has been retrofitted with new wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms along with other safety upgrades.
The Milan Cortina Games mark the 50th anniversary of the Winter Paralympics. More than 600 athletes will compete across 79 events in six sports. It is the biggest Winter Paralympics ever, with a record female participation, according to the IPC.
Para cross-country skier Aboulfazl Khatibi is expected to be the only athlete from Iran participating in the Games that begin less than a week after the United States and Israel launched their military attack.
Khatibi was announced as Iran’s flagbearer but he will not actually carry the flag — volunteers will be handed the task for all nations because not all flagbearers will be able to attend the ceremony for logistics and training issues.
Many athletes will miss the opening ceremony as they are located in different competing clusters across Italy. The curling events began on Wednesday.
China arrives looking to establish itself as the main Paralympic powerhouse. The Chinese have topped the medal count in the Summer Paralympics every time since 2004, and four years ago topped the Winter Games for the first time with a record-setting performance.
The 2026 NFL combine is in the books. While NFL teams are wary of things that happen in Indianapolis, such as players producing record-breaking 40 times and more, the combine can also reinforce what teams already know about NFL draft prospects.
That's what happened with some prospects. Workouts and on-field drills confirmed that Ohio State standouts Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles, along with Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love and Texas Tech edge David Bailey, were top-10 picks.
So, what does that mean for the Washington Commanders, who hold the No. 7 overall pick? We know Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is likely going No. 1 overall to the Las Vegas Raiders. An offensive lineman or two will likely go somewhere among the top six picks, meaning Washington should land a premier player when it's on the clock.
If you ask most Washington fans, any combination of Styles, Bailey, Love, or Ohio State safety Caleb Downs would make them happy.
In his latest post-combine mock draft, Dane Brugler's projection is good news for the Commanders.
7. Washington Commanders: David Bailey, edge, Texas Tech
Head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Adam Peters are looking for speed and violence off the edge, and Bailey offers both. He took a jump as a run defender this past season and would improve the Commanders’ pass rush immediately.
Bailey was college football's most dominant pass rusher in 2025. After three productive seasons at Stanford, Bailey transferred to Texas Tech, where he produced 14.5 sacks, 19.5 tackles for loss and three forced fumbles in 2025.
It feels more and more like Bailey doesn't make it outside the top five. He could go as high as No. 2 to the New York Jets, No. 3 to the Arizona Cardinals, or No. 4 to the Tennessee Titans. But, due to other team's needs, a premier talent will fall to Washington. In this case, it's Bailey.
In Brugler's mock, Love went fourth overall to the Titans, and Styles went No. 5 to the New York Giants.
Free agency begins next week, and the Commanders are expected to target pass rushers. Bailey could be the cherry on top if he lands in Washington.
Texas A&M coach Mike Elko has landed ten 2027 commitments so far, including newly minted five-star safety Kamarui Dorsey, while the Aggies are set to host a long list of blue-chip prospects, including five-star cornerback John Meredith, who will reportedly choose between the Aggies and Alabama in the coming months.
Late last month, it was revealed that Meredith will take two visits to College Station in the spring and summer, and on Tuesday night, the No. 1-ranked 2027 prospect (247Sports) announced his official visit dates, including Alabama (May 29-30), Texas (June 5-7), Texas A&M (June 12-14), and Ohio State (June 19-21), as Texas and the Buckeyes are still in the running, and will now get a chance to make their pitch in an official standing.
Under Mike Elko and new cornerback coach Bryant Gross-Armiente, the Aggies have assembled one of the deepest cornerback rooms in the SEC after landing former Tennessee cornerback Rickey Gibson from the transfer portal, paired with the return of Dezz Ricks and Julio Humphrey, while freshman five-star CB Brandon Arrington is also on track to make an immediate impact in 2026.
With blue-chip four-star cornerback Raylaun Henry already in the fold as one of the Aggies' ten commits, landing John Meredith would further cement the Aggies future cornerback room, as both are considered future NFL players, which is a must for Elko when recruiting any prospect, no matter their recruiting ranking.
— ⭐️John Meredith lll⭐️ (@JOHN_MEREDITH2) March 6, 2026
Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.
SCOTTSDALE, AZ — Two-time Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal, who grew up just three hours away in a small dusty town where folks stop to get gas on their drive to Las Vegas, who had only one school even interested in giving him a college scholarship, lets his mind race as his USA teammates walk past him into the clubhouse.
It was just a few years ago he was a nobody in Kingman, Arizona and now on the eve of the World Baseball Classic, the Detroit Tigers lefty is just nine months away from receiving the largest contract by a pitcher in baseball history.
“For the most part, I try to live in the moment," Skubal says, “and just appreciate where my feet are, and continue to strive to the best version of myself."
Yet, in a sea of stardom on Team USA, filled with other MVPs, Cy Young winners and All-Stars, Skubal is the one getting the most attention.
He’s the one everyone wants next winter, the one who’ll break the bank, and perhaps the first American League pitcher to ever win three consecutive Cy Young awards.
Skubal would love to stay put in Detroit, but in a wide-ranging interview with USA TODAY Sports, reveals that the Tigers never made a single long-term offer trying to keep him this winter, or even bothered to negotiate with him after he filed for salary arbitration.
“There is no offer," Skubal tells USA TODAY Sports, “and there won't be an offer until the end of the season….My focus is on playing baseball and winning this year. I’ll deal with the contract stuff at the end of the year, and then we'll kind of see. And that’s fine. It’s their decision."
Detroit vs. Everybody in 2026?
Skubal has no idea if the Tigers are serious about keeping him past this year considering their only long-term offer was two years ago for less than $80 million. But if he departs, he savors the idea of first being on the first Tigers’ team to win a World Series in 42 years. This is a team built for October, signing Houston Astros ace Framber Valdez to a three-year, $115 million contract and bringing back three-time Cy Young winner Justin Verlander.
“That’s where my focus is, trying to win a World Series for the city of Detroit, the team that drafted me in 2018," Skubal says. “The Tigers fans are excited, they’re really invested in this club, and so are we. There’s a different energy in camp this year about the guys that we brought in and additions that we've made, and there's a true belief and trying to win a World Series. I think that's awesome.
“It’s not that wasn't the belief last year, but I think the focus was more realistically on kind of winning the division and getting back in the playoffs.
"We didn't win the division, but we made the playoffs and made another good run. You can kind of see that a World Series is attainable with the additions that we've made. And that's all you can ask for, is to play on a team with World Series aspirations year in and year out. So it’s going to be a ton of fun this year."
Skubal's WBC pickle
Skubal smiles talking about enjoying life being on Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, hanging out with future Hall of Famer Clayton Kershaw, and 23-year-old sensation Paul Skenes, but he also cringes, knowing what you’re thinking, reading what you’re saying and just wishes folks would understand.
Instead of being grateful he’s participating in the first round of the WBC, which begins Friday night against Brazil at Daikin Park in Houston, the public seems disappointed Skubal is pitching Saturday evening against Great Britain in the second game of USA’s first round where he plans to throw about 50 to 55 pitches.
The next day, he will be gone, flying back to Florida to finish spring training with the Tigers.
His WBC participation will be over, although he could visit his USA teammates and root them on from the bench if they advance to the championship game March 17 in Miami, he says, taking a three-hour drive from Lakeland.
Skubal will be USA’s lone starter to make just one start. Logan Webb, Paul Skenes and Nolan McLean are each scheduled to pitch twice, with McLean, who has eight career starts for the New York Mets, potentially pitching the championship game.
The folks at home hate the idea that he’s one-and-done, believing if he’s really committed to the WBC, he should stay with his teammates and pitch twice during the tournament. Skubal even has WBC officials and teammates hoping he changes his mind, but for now he’s not budging, certainly not with free agency looming.
“The guys have been cool about it," Skubal says, “but I mean publicly, it’s a little bit different perception. But I think they understand what it means for me to be here. Obviously, I want to be in the room, you know, and that's cool for them to even take me aside and be like, 'it's awesome that you're here.'"
'The boys love it'
Players like three-time Yankees MVP Aaron Judge, captain of Team USA, have effusively praised Skubal for being on the team and have condemned those who are critical over his limited role.
“He's got the two Cy Young awards, but this guy's about to make half a billion dollars here in the next offseason," Judge said. “So, for him to put it all on the line for his country, and come out here and show up for us…..You know, maybe it is just one game, but you know there's a risk with everything you do, and for him to take that risk and come out here and be with us, the boys love it."
They’d love it a whole lot more if Skubal sticks around. They are privately hoping that Skubal gets so caught up in the WBC frenzy that he changes his mind, and decides to pitch again in the knockout rounds.
“Those [conversations] have already started," Skubal says, laughing. “So, we'll see. I mean, when you get in the moment and you're competing, especially in the next four-ish days with games that really matter, we’ll see."
So, you’re saying there’s a chance?
“Yeah, sure," said Skubal, who’s scheduled to pitch for the Tigers in a spring training game the day of USA’s potential semifinal game. “I need to get back to camp and get back to my routine, but I want to go to Miami and just be at those games. … I might just be there and be a cheerleader."
Skubal certainly has the final call, but even when he finally agreed to pitch in the WBC, it was against agent Scott Boras’ advice and the Tigers’ wishes. He didn’t commit until Boras, the Tigers, USA manager Mark DeRosa and USA pitching coach Andy Pettitte agreed to the plan of making one start and returning to Lakeland.
“We kind of explained that, 'Hey, I want to be part of this, but it’s going to be in a limited role,'" Skubal says. “So, once the plan was kind of laid out what to expect from me, and what my workload is, that's kind of when it became an easy decision to be here."
Skubal's top WBC concern? Timing
Really, it’s just the timing of the WBC that gives Skubal reservations, just as it has with plenty of pitchers in the past. Their arms aren’t built up for the regular season, and suddenly, you’re thrown into a playoff environment.
Skubal and others wish the World Baseball Classic would be played in July during an extended All-Star break – like they’re planning in 2028 with the Olympics – instead of interrupting spring training.
“Hopefully they get this tournament right to where it can be kind of a mid-season thing," Skubal says. “That’s kind of the only knock I got on it. It’s just the timing for starting pitching doesn't really work. You know, it doesn't add up. It's a very limited capacity of being able to go.’’
Pitchers in the WBC are restricted from throwing more than 60 pitches in the first round, 75 in the quarterfinals and 90 pitches in the semifinals and finals.
“I'd love to come here and just have a game where I have 100 pitches and be ready to go," Skubal says. “So hopefully the Olympics, they get that at the All-Star break, and they get it right. That way we can send out the best lineup and arms, and they can be at max, full-go. And they don't have to worry about injuries.
“If you look at injury rates, a lot of them happen in spring, and then it kind of flattens out. And then a lot of them happen right after the All-Star break, and then it kind of flattens out. So those are the two times you have a little bit heightened risk. And that's why the timing is a little bit different with this tournament and what I can bring to the table.
“I mean, I would love to say this is a postseason game, and go as long as you want. But it's just not the way it is.’’
Still, Skubal says, this is something he’ll forever cherish. It’s the greatest collection of talent he’s ever seen. He’s still blown away that Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, who hit 60 homers last season, was the one catching him during his bullpen session Tuesday afternoon with seven of his fellow pitchers intently watching.
“I mean, that's a big reason of why I wanted to be a part of this," Skubal says, “even going into a contract year and free agency. It’s like, I don't want to miss the opportunity to be a fly on the wall in this room, just with all the knowledge and baseball presence that's around. Watching these guys prepare, watching the pitchers prepare, watching the hitters prepare, how they get themselves ready to go, their bullpens, playing catch, workouts, nutrition, all of that stuff.
“It’s just such a cool experience to be part of. It’s like, I can’t pass up an opportunity to be teammates with Clayton Kershaw."
Skubal and Paul Skenes link up
He also gets the chance to pitch alongside Skenes, the defending NL Cy Young winner, for the first time.
“He’s a great player, a great talent,’’ Skubal said. “He’s lived up to every ounce of the hype that he’s got, and that’s special."
Certainly, Skenes will be indebted to Skubal for raising the bar with his $32 million arbitration victory, shattering the previous record of $19.75 million for a starting pitcher set by David Price in 2015. The win was momentous for the players union, particularly with Skubal being on the union’s eight-person executive committee.
“There’s a ton of pride," Skubal says. “You look at a rising tide lifts all boats in that aspect, so I take a lot of pride in that. As a player, you want to leave the game in a better spot than how you found it. So I think going to arb and going through that process is always a great one, but it’s good to get my feet in there and take a stand for players.
“And, obviously, get what I feel like I deserve with what I’ve accomplished so far."
If Skubal is earning $32 million in arbitration, and almost certainly will become the highest-paid pitcher in history through free agency, can you imagine the payday when Skenes starts to negotiate?
“His market is going to be crazy," Skubal says. “He’s got a Rookie of the Year, a Cy Young and three more years to see what happens. I’m excited for him. Obviously, he deserves it."
For now, free agency can wait. The USA players have even avoided trying to recruit Skubal a year early, saying they don’t want to interfere with the task in hand.
That’s winning a gold medal, with Skubal planning to do his part against Great Britain.
“I think the energy and environment is going to be awesome,’’ Skubal says. “I can’t wait to feel it. It's the first time I've ever been able to wear the USA jersey, and it's going to be special. My family and friends will get to enjoy that. It will be pretty special for everybody involved.
“It’s going to be a lot of fun."
Who knows, maybe so much fun that Skubal’s teammates persuade him to hang around just a little while longer?
“Is there a chance?" DeRosa said, smiling. “There’s always a chance."
A recent mock draft has the Cincinnati Bengals addressing their need at the cornerback position, but taking a player who hasn't played a game in over a year.
Courtesy of Vinnie Iyer of The Sporting News, the Bengals go with Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy, who can be a very good defender when healthy. Unfortunately, we haven't seen that in over a year, as an ACL injury cost him the entire 2025 season. He also did not do any drills in Indianapolis at the Scouting Combine. He is expected to work out during his Pro Day on March 31.
Here's what Iyer had to say about the pick:
"The Bengals will be debating pass rusher vs. corrnerback most in their continued defensive rebuild. They seemed to have more interesting discussions with corners at the Combine, perhaps realizing Reese, Bain and Bailey should be off the board before this pick. McCoy, who eschewed workouts at the Combine but should go all the way on his pro day, would make sense with his shutdown upside."
McCoy had 44 tackles and four interceptions in his lone playing season at Tennessee in 2024 after transferring from Oregon State. In 2023 with the Beavers, McCoy recorded 31 tackles and two interceptions. He had 16 total passes defended in his two seasons. He has shown flashes of being a shutdown corner in the NFL, but teams need to make sure his health checks out. With him still being projected near the top 10, it seems like his health should be good.
McCoy does not expect to be limited at his Pro Day, where he'll have a chance to remind people how athletic he is and potentially solidify himself in the top half of the first round of the draft, potentially to Cincinnati, who could use cornerback help but also seem to like what they have in Dax Hill and DJ Turner on the outside. However, a higher-end cornerback could give the Bengals depth and maybe move a player like Hill inside.
McCoy is not a name that has popped up often for the Bengals in mock drafts, but it's one that maybe should be on their radar.
STANFORD, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 07: The New England Patriots coaching staff with head coach Mike Vrabel, (back row center) poses for this photo before taking a team photo prior to Super Bowl LX at Stanford Stadium on February 07, 2026 in Stanford, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) | Getty Images
For the first time since 2023, the New England Patriots are entering an offseason with stability at the head coaching position. Mike Vrabel, arrived in Foxborough last offseason, will be back with the organization after leading it to a 14-3 record and Super Bowl berth.
But while Vrabel will not be going anywhere anytime soon, his staff is set to experience some turnover. Not every assistant will be back for the 2026 season, while some internal reshuffling is in the cards as well.
In order to not get lost amid the news and rumors, we set up this up-to-date Patriots Coaching Staff tracker.
Patriots coaching hires
B.J. Edmonds (TBD): A former cornerback at Arkansas State, Edmonds served as a defensive graduate assistant at Kansas Wesleyan and Utah State before a two-year stint as a defensive assistant at Duke. In January, he was hired to coach running backs at Southern Miss but just a month later is headed to the NFL and the Patriots’ staff in an as-of-yet undisclosed role. | News
Charles London (TBD): Working exclusively on the offensive side of the ball, London has spent time with multiple organizations over the course of his two-plus decades in coaching. Among his stops were the Titans, where he spent the 2023 season as quarterbacks coach and pass game coordinator under Mike Vrabel. Since then, he coached quarterbacks for the Seahawks and Jets and will now add his expertise to New England in a role that has yet to be announced. | News
Patriots coaching departures
Robert Kugler (assistant offensive line coach): One of the few holdovers from the 2024 to the 2025 coaching staffs, Kugler served as assistant O-line coach under both Jerod Mayo and Mike Vrabel. His work caught the eye of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who hired him as tight ends coach under their new regime. | News
Milton Patterson (defensive assistant): An experienced college coach who spent several seasons in various roles at Florida A&M, Patterson arrived in New England last offseason to work as a defensive assistant. His stint on the Patriots’ staff lasted only one season, though. | News
Ben McAdoo (senior defensive assistant): A former head coach with the Giants and offensive coordinator with the Panthers, McAdoo originally joined the Patriots under Jerod Mayo in 2024. He remained on staff after Mike Vrabel’s departure, but moved to the defensive side of the ball. Now, the 48-year-old is out. | News
Patriots internal changes
Terrell Williams (TBD): Williams was hired as Patriots defensive coordinator last year, but he struggled with medical issues for much of 2025. After having to work remotely for much of the offseason following an undisclosed “health scare” he was able to serve in his role for only one game: Williams was diagnosed with prostate cancer in September and subsequently left the team. He has since been declared cancer free but will not resume his role as DC. Instead, he has been moved to a “high-ranking role” on Mike Vrabel’s staff. | News | Analysis
Zak Kuhr (promoted to defensive coordinator): Another offseason addition under Mike Vrabel in 2025, Kuhr stepped up in light of Terrell Williams’ medical episodes. He served as his on-the-ground replacement in the offseason and later was chosen as defensive play caller during the season. Kuhr did an admirable job and as a consequence was promoted from his inside linebackers coaching job to full-time DC. | News | Analysis
Vinny DePalma (promoted to inside linebackers coach): Formerly a linebacker at Boston College, DePalma came to the Patriots during the 2024 offseason. He spent the next two seasons as a defensive assistant working primarily with the linebacker position, and his promotion to inside linebackers coach was therefore only natural. | News | Analysis
Patriots interview tracker
Ephraim Banda (for defensive coordinator): Banda started his coaching career at the college level before making the move to the NFL as the Browns’ safety coach in 2023. Despite Cleveland struggling to play winning football particularly the last two years, the team’s defense — including his position group — kept playing at a fairly high level. As a consequence of this and the organization making a change at head coach and defensive coordinator this offseason, Banda has started receiving some interest from other clubs. | News
Patriots coaching staff tracker
The Patriots are hiring Charles London, a former assistant of Mike Vrabel in Tennessee, to an undisclosed role on staff. | Source
Senior defensive assistant Ben McAdoo is set to leave the team after two seasons. | Source
Browns safeties coach Ephraim Banda was among the coaches interviewed for New England’s defensive coordinator role. | Source
Southern Miss running backs coach B.J. Edmonds has been hired by the Patriots in an undisclosed role. | Source
Defensive assistant Milton Patterson will not be back with the Patriots in 2026. | Source
With Zak Kuhr moving up the ranks, so does Vinny DePalma: New England’s defensive assistant is expected to take over as the Patriots’ new inside linebackers coach. | Source
Zak Kuhr, who called defensive plays for a majority of the 2025 season, has been promoted to the Patriots’ defensive coordinator role. | Source
A young up-and-comer in NFL coaching ranks, quarterbacks coach Ashton Grant will not be going anywhere this offseason. | Source
The Patriots have decided to promote defensive coordinator Terrell Williams to a “high-ranking” role on their coaching staff. | Source
Robert Kugler, who served as an offensive line assistant for the Patriots in 2024 and 2025, is headed to the Steelers. He will serve as Pittsburgh’s tight ends coach. | Source
Patriots assistant Thomas Brown will not be hired as Cardinals head coach; Arizona has brought in Mike LeFleur to serve in that role. | Source
Mike McDaniel is set to become Chargers offensive coordinator, meaning that Patriots assistant Thomas Brown will not get the job he previously interviewed for. | Source
The Cardinals requested to interview Patriots tight ends coach and passing game coordinator Thomas Brown for their vacant offensive coordinator position. | Source
The Cardinals requested to interview Patriots tight ends coach and passing game coordinator Thomas Brown for their vacant head coaching position. | Source
CHICAGO — The Detroit Tigers released a statement Wednesday saying they were “incredibly proud” of announcer Jason Benetti being named the new voice of NBC’s “Sunday Night Baseball” broadcasts.
In only 10 years, the Homewood-Flossmoor graduate has gone from budding Chicago White Sox play-by-play man to the top of the business, landing one of the most coveted announcing jobs in sports.
“This recognition reflects his exceptional broadcasting talent, tireless commitment to excellence, and engaging personality, all of which combine to make him a premier storyteller across all of sports,” the Tigers statement said.
This is great news for baseball fans and a brilliant move by NBC, which also recently hired ex-Cub Anthony Rizzo to be part of its pregame shows. The only thing that would make Wednesday’s announcement better would be if Bill Walton were still alive to join Benetti in the booth on occasion, as he did for a Sox game in 2019.
Benetti wasn’t sure what to expect from Walton but told me beforehand: “I’m not going to have the media-room brownies, is my guess.”
Benetti survived without experiencing any high anxiety, and the broadcast was as weird and full of non sequiturs as you’d expect.
In a nice twist, NBC won’t have a regular sidekick for Benetti like most national broadcasts. Instead, he’ll be paired with analysts from the teams playing that night. That means we could see a reunion of Benetti and former partner Steve Stone, assuming the Sox are competitive enough to merit a spot on “Sunday Night Baseball.”
If it wasn’t clear by now, it’s safe to say letting Benetti leave the Sox TV booth in 2024 was the organization’s biggest mistake since letting Harry Caray depart for WGN-Ch. 9 and the Cubs in 1982. Like Benetti, Caray felt the Sox disrespected him and left a job and fan base he loved when the team moved from free TV to their pay-TV channel, SportsVision.
The Sox still haven’t learned their lesson, as evidenced by the recent separation with Hall of Fame slugger Frank Thomas. And if you want to go back a few decades, you can add Carlton Fisk, who was ripped by Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf in 1993 when Fisk balked at signing a minor league deal. “He’s 45 years old; it’s time he grew up,” Reinsdorf told the Chicago Sun-Times. “I’m sick and tired of him acting like a baby. He believes he has been mistreated, but nobody has ever been catered to here more than Carlton Fisk. He’s a prima donna. He must think he’s Michael Jackson.”
The Sox, you may recall, didn’t like Benetti missing some games for national TV assignments. Vice president Brooks Boyer reportedly made some harsh comments to Benetti that belittled him, so Benetti waved goodbye to his hometown and the team he grew up rooting for as a boy in Homewood.
The Tigers allowed him to miss 35 games for national assignments for Fox, and now that he’s with NBC will let him do likewise for “Game of the Week” broadcasts. Why would you not want your own announcer to be recognized by a national audience?
There were also stories about Reinsdorf not being amused by the wise-cracking or esoteric commentary by Benetti during play-by-play, as if baseball were a deadly serious sport that should be treated with more dignity. Benetti did it his way and never wavered in his beliefs.
Admittedly, some of the stuff went over my head, too, like in a game in 2021 when he watched Sox closer Liam Hendriks get upset on the mound over a bad call. “And Liam looks back in anger,” he quipped.
Only after I thought about it did I realize it was a subtle nod to Oasis, the band led by Liam and Noel Gallagher, and its hit “Don’t look back in Anger.”
Too obscure? Maybe. But it’s only baseball.
During a college basketball game I was watching in 2022, the score was 54-40, which led Benetti to head into the commercial break announcing it was “54-40 or fight” for the trailing team. It was vaguely familiar, and a little googling reminded me it was a famous slogan of a territorial dispute in the Pacific Northwest in the 1840s. Kudos to the H-F history teacher who stuck that in his head, and to Benetti for having the confidence to bring up an obscure factoid of American history in the middle of a basketball game.
Both of those calls elicited a time-release chuckle, which often happened when someone with Benetti’s intelligence and quick wit was behind the mic.
Calling the game is the most important thing, of course, and he’s very good at that. But making a viewer laugh isn’t such a bad thing, and during that miserable 2023 season, he and Stone were the only reasons to watch the Sox.
Caray went on to become a national icon when he left the Sox for the Cubs, and Benetti is seemingly headed in the same direction. At age 42, he’s already at the top of the ladder, so who knows what else is in store for his career?
Whenever I’d see him at the ballpark I’d ask about the “Curse of Jason Benetti,” which I admittedly made up during the record-setting 121-loss season in 2024.
“This has nothing to do with me leaving,” he repeatedly said.
Maybe not, but everything has certainly gone right for Benetti since leaving Chicago, proving the grass is sometimes greener on the other side after all.
Rory McIlroy spent the majority of his career chasing an elusive Green Jacket, but when it finally rested on his shoulders last year, he didn’t know what to do with himself.
Once McIlroy had finally won The Masters and completed the Career Grand Slam, he was aloof, unmotivated, and quick to anger. He was frosty toward the media and admitted he lacked motivation now that he had achieved his career goal.
Since then, he appears to have found some purpose. He won the Irish Open and an away Ryder Cup, and says he’s now more focused on creating memories, winning iconic tournaments, and adding to his legacy.
But it took McIlroy months to find those answers, and as one of only six men to have won the career Grand Slam in golf, he didn’t have many people to turn to for advice. Tiger Woods never lacked motivation as he was chasing Jack Nicklaus’ major tally.
So the Northern Irishman turned to a sporting great from another sport, Roger Federer, who continued playing long after he had won all there is to win. McIlroy asked the 20-time Grand Slam winner how he stayed motivated after breaking Pete Sampras’ record.
Photo by Harry How/Getty Images
How Roger Federer stayed motivated after breaking Pete Sampras’ Grand Slam record
McIlroy was asked on the Fried Egg YouTube channel what drives him now that he’s won The Masters, and he thought back to a conversation he had with Federer just a few weeks ago.
McIlroy said, “I actually had a chance to have dinner with Roger Federer a few weeks ago, and he framed the question a little differently to me, and it just made me think about it a little bit differently.
“And I was asking him, when he got to a point in his career when he achieved everything he really wanted, what was the motivation to keep going, and his answer was great.
“And it had to do with Pete Sampras, and when he got to 15, which was past Pete’s 14, he’s like, ‘Well, 20 didn’t seem that far away’ So, it’s the same thing for me.
“I probably still have a little bit of imposter syndrome that, wow, this is my life, and this is what I do. But I think as well having a conversation like that with someone that’s done it all. Okay, it’s in a different sport, but he’s lived it. He’s been through it.
“He played the game to a very high level for a very, very long period of time. And just to get his thoughts on how he thought about the last phase of his career, it’s such a wonderful opportunity that I get to do that, and I feel incredibly fortunate that I do get to do it.”
Rory McIlroy’s new goal after completing the Career Grand Slam
McIlroy was in need of a new goal, and the one he came up with was pretty simple. What’s better than completing the Career Grand Slam? Completing it twice!
He said, “I’ve got the five majors. I don’t think it’s out of the realm of possibility that I could win every major twice, which would be a really cool thing to win the Grand Slam twice.”
If he achieved this, he’d join Nicklaus and Woods as the only two players to win every major multiple times. That really would be esteemed company, and he’d also jump to at least seventh all-time in major wins with seven to his name.
It seems like McIlroy is looking for ways to continue climbing the pantheon of golfing greats, and this is the best way to achieve this.
The past few weeks have been less than stellar for this Illini team.
It was a rough month of February for the Illini after such a promising start to conference play. Just a few weeks ago, this team was sitting at the top of the Big Ten with an 11-1 conference record. That quickly changed when the Illini went 4-4 last month.
You could argue there were many different reasons the Illini slipped a bit in February. They dealt with injuries to multiple key players, they haven’t defended or rebounded the ball to their potential lately, and they faced much tougher opponents in February than they did the first 10 games or so of conference play. What do you think has held this team back the most recently?
You could point to recent slumps for many of the Illini’s key players. Keaton Wagler hasn’t been nearly as efficient the last few weeks as he was during the beginning of the season and conference play. Tomislav Ivisic is 5 for his last 26 from three-point land, while his brother Zvonimir Ivisic is 1 for his last 10. It feels like nobody on this team besides David Mirkovic — not including Jake Davis and Ben Humrichous who have been great in their small roles — has played consistently well since January.
With all of that being said, you would much rather see this team go through a slump in February compared to March. While it’s not a great sign for the near future, there is still plenty of time to get this team back on track with one final road game and hopefully multiple Big Ten Tournament games. The Oregon game on Tuesday night was a solid start in doing so.
At the end of the day, it’s going to be up to Brad Underwood and his staff to fix the issues hindering this team right now. This team has the size to be more than capable of defending and rebounding consistently at a high rate. If those recent weaknesses are able to be addressed and the Ivisic twins can break out of their slumps, especially Tomislav, there is no reason to not strongly believe that this team can be a legitimate contender to cut the nets down in April.
Tottenham's Dominic Solanke says the players have "had a chat between us" and must now "understand we need to improve" as the club's relegation fears were heightened by Thursday's 3-1 home defeat by Crystal Palace.
"Another difficult one to take," Spurs' goalscorer said post-match.
"Before the game, we looked at the game thinking we definitely needed to win, but it's another game that has passed now and we need to realise the position we're in.
"It was difficult circumstances [having a player sent off] but we've had a chat between us and we need to understand we need to improve and improve now.
"It is difficult and hard to say with just words, we need to show it on the pitch but it's something we need to do as soon as possible.
"We obviously need to realise the position that we are in. We know it's been so difficult this season with the injuries, but we can't change that now.
"Us players on the pitch need to take responsibility and ultimately change it as soon as possible.
"It's difficult just speaking, but we need to realise the position we're in and we need to fight for every game. Fight for every result and there are not many games left, so we need to start [winning] soon.
"I think we need to look forward to the next games. We need to see what is going wrong on the pitch, debrief that and change, but we're not in a position to dwell on anything now.
"We need to make sure next game we're going to be at it, see where we can improve and see what we can do to change this form around."
Newcastle United fan Ken Riley was 14 when Newcastle sealed their third FA Cup in five seasons, beating Manchester City 3-1 at Wembley in May 1955.
In front of a crowd of 100,000, Bobby Johnstone levelled for City on the stroke of half-time after Jackie Milburn had put Newcastle ahead in the first minute of the game.
But Newcastle struck twice in the second half through Bobby Mitchell and George Hannah to seal victory in what proved to be their last major domestic trophy before the Magpies beat Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final in 2025.
Sharing his recollections of a memorable trip to London with BBC Radio Newcastle, Riley said his hope was high as he entered the majestic old Wembley Stadium.
"I couldn't believe how big it was and how beautiful it was," he remembered. "It was like Wimbledon turf.
"I was so used to seeing Newcastle's cup games where the ground was a quagmire. It was such a surprise to see what a lovely ground it was. I was very impressed and it was a fantastic game.
"Newcastle, in those days, were classed as a cup team.
"When I talked to people when I was younger and said I was going to Wembley, they said: 'You'll have a good game because Newcastle are cup winners.' So I did expect them to win and was very pleased that they did."
The following morning Ken went down to breakfast in the hotel he was staying in to discover the FA Cup-winning Newcastle team sitting there - with the famous trophy parked next to Magpies captain Jimmy Scoular.
"I said to my father: 'I wonder if I can get some autographs,'" Ken recalled.
"Ron Batty used to live a few doors down from me in Lobley Hill and I wasn't sure if he would know me, but I knew him so I asked him: 'Ron, can I get a few autographs?' He said: 'Why aye, have you got an autograph book? Look, take the menu and the lads will sign the back of it for you.'
"So he gave me the menu and I went round and nearly everybody that was there signed the back of this menu - the breakfast menu at the Great Northern hotel.
"I got round to where Jimmy Scoular was and he had the cup in front of him, and he said: 'Come on, son, sit here and look after this cup because I'm going to the toilet!'"
Serie A Preview: Napoli vs Torino – Team News, Lineups & Prediction
Stadio Diego Armando Maradona is the venue as Napoli and Torino go head-to-head in an exciting Serie A showdown. Friday night’s clash in southern Italy has all the makings of a ‘must-win’ affair for the home side, whose top-four ambitions might be on the line.
Romelu Lukaku opened his account for the season last weekend, and he could not have picked a better moment to do so, as his 96th-minute winner fired Napoli to a 2-1 victory at Hellas Verona. Fresh off ending a two-game winless league run (D1, L1), Antonio Conte’s side will be out to secure back-to-back wins in Serie A for only the second time in 2026.
With fifth-placed Como only six points behind, Napoli’s season could spiral into chaos unless they find some much-needed consistency down the final stretch. On that basis, the Partenopei cannot afford a slip-up this evening. However, led by new manager Roberto D’Aversa, visiting Torino will look to cause some problems for their more esteemed hosts.
Giovanni Simeone and Duvan Zapata were on the scoresheet as the Granata saw off Lazio 2-0 last Sunday, handing D’Aversa a victorious debut. Still, the visitors have not won consecutive league matches since Christmas Day, which is why they find themselves only six points clear of 18th-placed Lecce at the start of this round.
Match Preview
Napoli
While three points feel imperative for Napoli here, they cannot take anything for granted, especially after falling to a narrow 1-0 defeat in October’s reverse fixture. Furthermore, last weekend’s triumph at the Marc’Antonio Bentegodi was only their fourth in ten Serie A games (D4, L2), highlighting the depth of crisis at the Maradona Stadium.
On a more positive note, this venue has been a fortress this season, with Napoli remaining the only Serie A side yet to taste defeat on home turf (W8, D4). However, three draws from their last five home league outings (W2) can hardly inspire confidence ahead of this high-stakes showdown against a side they have dominated on this ground lately.
A comfortable 2-0 triumph in this corresponding fixture last season extended Napoli’s formidable unbeaten run against Torino at home to 13 matches (W8, D4). It’s also worth noting that the reigning Serie A champions have only lost two of the last 21 meetings between the sides (W14, D5), suggesting they are in a decent position to avenge October’s heartbreak.
After a hard-earned win earlier in the season, Torino could beat Napoli twice in a row for the first time since May 2009, although the odds remain heavily stacked against them here. That’s because they have massively struggled on their recent Serie A travels, suffering three defeats in their last four away league games (D1) while failing to score in each loss.
A genuine lack of firepower has plagued Torino’s campaign, with only three sides sitting outside the bottom three at the beginning of this round netting fewer goals than the Granata’s 27. Torino’s scoring woes have often come to the fore on the road, as they’ve bagged a disappointing average of 0.92 goals per away league match this term.
It would take something special from the visitors to address their wastefulness in front of goal at the Maradona Stadium, where they haven’t scored more than once on their last seven Serie A visits. Even if they do, it would likely require a lot of patience, given that just three of their 12 away league goals this season have come before halftime.
Team News
Despite potentially losing Stanislav Lobotka to injury, Napoli have welcomed Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, Scott McTominay, and Kevin De Bruyne back to full training. However, they will still be without David Neres, Amir Rrahmani, and Giovanni Di Lorenzo. Despite netting a last-gasp winner against Verona, Lukaku is likely to start on the bench, with Rasmus Hojlund expected to lead the line.
On the other hand, Emirhan Ilkhan returns from suspension, while Che Adams and Tino Anjorin have recently recovered from injuries. Napoli loanee Simeone will be seeking his 100th goal contribution in Serie A, as he prepares to start alongside Zapata in the final third.
Despite a full-blown injury crisis, Conte is running out of excuses for Napoli’s disjointed form, and there’s no better setting to help the Partenopei consolidate their top-three spot in Serie A than the Maradona Stadium. Torino’s bid to extend the ‘new manager bounce’ is likely to fall short here, as we expect the home team to take all three points.
British duo Jason Kean and Jo Butterfield are back in action on Saturday against Japan [Getty Images]
A 5-4 victory over the United States kept Great Britain firmly in the hunt for a semi-final spot in the wheelchair curling mixed doubles at the Milan-Cortina Winter Paralympics.
After starting the eight-team round-robin phase with two defeats, British pair Jo Butterfield and Jason Kean have registered two consecutive wins to move into a five-way tie for second place in the table.
China - who Great Britain face in their penultimate game - lead the standings with four wins out of four.
The top four nations after seven matches will move through to the semi-finals.
Following on from a 6-5 win against Latvia in Thursday's evening session, Butterfield and Kean were narrow victors in a low-scoring contest against American duo Laura Dwyer and Steve Emt.
Neither side led by more than one point during the first seven ends and the sides were tied at 4-4 going into the final end, in which Great Britain had the hammer - the advantage of throwing the last stone.
Kean produced a fine penultimate stone under pressure to earn the point needed for victory.
The morning session of wheelchair curling was the only sporting action at the Games on Friday, with the opening ceremony scheduled to take place in Verona from 19:00 GMT.
Great Britain's next match in the mixed doubles is against Japan on Saturday (13:35).
Also on Saturday, Great Britain will play twice on the first day of competition in the four-player wheelchair curling mixed team event.
They will begin against Slovakia (08:35) before facing the United States in their second round-robin match of the day (17:35).
If this were next season, both these sides would still fancy getting in the Championship play-offs with the EFL announcing this week that six teams will qualify from next season, from third down to eighth place.
As it is, this is a meeting of 16th against 14th, who are respectively 10 and 11 points short of the top six.
Swansea City have kept a clean sheet in their past two home league games against Stoke (W1 D1), having lost 3-1 in the previous two at the Liberty Stadium
Stoke are looking for their first league double over Swansea since the 2021-22 campaign under Michael O'Neill.
Swansea have picked up 23 points in their past nine home Championship matches (W7 D2), conceding just four goals. In their previous nine home games, the Swans won nine points and conceded 15 times.
The Potters have lost six of their past 10 away Championship matches (W2 D2), scoring just six goals in total and failing to find the net in five of them.
Since the start of the 2021-22 season, only Gustavo Hamer (38) has more Championship assists than Sorba Thomas (37), who has created a goal in his past two appearances for Stoke.
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 05: Berry Wallace #23 of the Illinois Fighting Illini and Ines Sotelo #10 of the Michigan State Spartans battle for position under the basket during the second half of a Big Ten Women's Basketball Tournament Second Round game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on March 05, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Illinois Fighting Illini won the game 71-69. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images) | Getty Images
INDIANAPOLIS — Illinois found a way to survive.
In a game that felt messy early and much more tense late, the No. 10 seed Illini held off No. 7 seed Michigan State 71-69 Thursday in the second round of the Big Ten Tournament at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Illinois leaned on a huge first half from Cearah Parchment and just enough defense in the closing seconds to move on.
Michigan State had one final chance after a late Illinois turnover with 20 seconds left, but the Illini forced a turnover of their own in the final moments to seal it.
The path to that finish was anything but smooth.
Illinois opened the game looking completely out of rhythm. The Illini turned the ball over four straight times to start the night and had six turnovers in the first three minutes, something rarely seen from a team that entered the game among the Big Ten leaders in taking care of the ball.
Michigan State quickly jumped out to a 6-0 lead as Kennedy Blair attacked in transition and Grace VanSlooten finished around the rim.
Parchment steadied things almost by herself. The freshman forward scored Illinois’ first six points and repeatedly attacked the paint when the offense stalled. She used a pump fake from the perimeter to get downhill for a layup and later cleaned up a missed shot with an offensive rebound and putback.
By halftime, Parchment had 15 points on 5-for-7 shooting and had drawn multiple fouls, helping Illinois flip the early deficit into a 36-29 lead at the break.
Illinois slowly started to settle in around her.
Maddie Webber brought energy off the bench with a coast-to-coast layup and later knocked down a deep three. Aaliyah Guyton added a corner three off a Berry Wallace assist, and Destiny Jackson hit a tough floater late in the second quarter to keep the Illini in front.
The Illini defense also locked in during that stretch, holding Michigan State without a made three-pointer in the entire first half.
The game tightened again after halftime.
Michigan State leaned heavily on Blair, who attacked nearly every possession and kept the Spartans within striking distance. The guard eventually finished with a career and game-high 30 points, including 16 in the second half.
A quick Spartans run in the third quarter briefly flipped the lead before Illinois answered.
Jasmine Brown-Hagger provided one of the biggest swings of the game during that stretch. She scored five straight points on a tough driving layup followed by a wing three to swing momentum back toward Illinois. Jackson added an and-one floater soon after as the Illini carried a 53-48 lead into the fourth.
Illinois pushed that lead to nine early in the final quarter behind more attacking from Brown-Hagger and Jackson.
Still, Michigan State never went away.
Blair kept slicing into the paint and eventually helped cut the lead to two inside the final minute. Jackson answered with a clutch layup to give Illinois a little breathing room, but the Spartans again cut the lead to two with 32 seconds left.
That eventually set up the final chaotic sequence.
With total control of the game and only 2 seconds separating shot and game clock, Jackson got rushed and turned the ball over with about 20 seconds remaining, giving Michigan State a huge chance to tie or take the lead. Illinois’ defense held strong, forcing a turnover in the closing seconds and securing the win.
Parchment led Illinois with 15 points and six rebounds. Jackson finished with 14 points and five assists. Webber added 13 points off the bench, and Brown-Hagger scored 12 during a key second-half stretch.
The Illini now move on in Indianapolis after surviving one of their toughest games of the season.
— Illinois Women's Basketball (@IlliniWBB) March 6, 2026
Illinois seals the win with an inbound pass as the clock expires and the team goes in a frenzy.
STAT STUFFERS
Illinois had 15 points off of turnovers
The Illini shot 43% from beyond
Brown Hagger shot 83% from the field, scoring 12 points
UP NEXT
Illinois advances to the Big Ten Tournament quarterfinals Friday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, where the Illini will face No. 2 seed Iowa. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m. CT and will air on BTN.
Illinois will look to get revenge on another Big Ten foe, after losing to Iowa 82-78 just over a week ago in Iowa City.
MUMBAI: Forced to stay back in India following the end of their campaign in the T20 World Cup, the West Indies team might finally be able to fly home on a chartered flight on Friday with assistance from the International Cricket Council, TOI has learnt.
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The departures of both West Indies and Zimbabwe were delayed after the situation in West Asia led to widespread flight cancellations and airspace closures, disrupting key transit hubs. “West Indies are likely to fly back home via a chartered flight on Friday, with assistance from the ICC. The details of this chartered flight arrangement are being worked out,” a source said.
Another source said ICC chairperson Jay Shah, CEO Sanjog Gupta and the head of events have been in regular contact with Cricket West Indies and the team management to ensure a safe return.
West Indies head coach Darren Sammy posted on X on Wednesday: “I just wanna go home,” reflecting the team’s frustration at being stranded in Kolkata. The Caribbean side had been scheduled to leave soon after losing their final Super 8 match to India in Kolkata.
Late on Thursday, Cricket West Indies (CWI) released a statement confirming the development. “During a high-level call earlier today, it was confirmed that a charter flight is currently being arranged for the team’s departure from India, with the expected departure scheduled within the next 24 hours. The departure time remains subject to final air traffic approvals,” the statement said.
Zimbabwe leave in batches
Zimbabwe, also stranded after exiting the Super 8, have begun returning home in batches after the ICC arranged alternate routes following the cancellation of their flight via Dubai. The team is travelling to Harare via Addis Ababa, with the first group leaving on Wednesday and the final group scheduled to depart on Friday afternoon, Zimbabwe Cricket said.
South Africa next
The ICC is also working on South Africa’s return travel after their semifinal loss to New Zealand. A source said the team is most likely to fly via Ethiopian Airlines, with Emirates and Etihad gradually restoring routes.
The United States' path to a World Baseball Classic title begins Friday.
Team USA will be taking on Brazil in its 2026 WBC opener, beginning the star-studded squad's action in Pool B.
San Francisco Giants southpaw Logan Webb is set to get the start on the mound for the Americans, opening the tournament for manager Mark DeRosa — but offensively, a collection of MLB All-Stars will also be getting starts against Brazil.
Here's a look at Team USA's lineup vs. Brazil to open the World Baseball Classic.
This section will be updated when the U.S. reveals its official lineup.
The U.S. hasn't yet revealed it's official lineup for Friday's game against Brazil — a lineup can be expected in the hours leading up to the 8 p.m. ET start.
However, DeRosa certainly may have previewed his go-to lineup in Team USA's exhibition games this week. Against the Giants on Wednesday, here's how the Americans set their lineup:
Spot
Player
Position
1
Bobby Witt Jr.
SS
2
Bryce Harper
1B
3
Aaron Judge
RF
4
Kyle Schwarber
DH
5
Alex Bregman
3B
6
Cal Raleigh
C
7
Roman Anthony
LF
8
Byron Buxton
CF
9
Brice Turang
2B
There could be a few changes from this lineup to Friday's official opener against Brazil, but here are the key factors DeRosa likely previewed:
Witt set to leadoff for Team USA
The exhibition lineup vs. San Francisco appeared to have tipped DeRosa's plans for the top of his everyday Team USA lineup. While the bottom half appears likely to change, the top-four-to-six hitters are likely to remain staples of the Americans' offense.
It shouldn't be too surprising considering his .351/.501/.852 line with 38 stolen bases last MLB season, but Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. appears set to handle leadoff duties for DeRosa. Regarded as one of the few five-tool players in baseball, Witt would bring plenty of on-base skills, power and speed to the No. 1 spot.
Witt, Harper, Judge, Schwarber, Raleigh likely shoe-ins for starting roles
As mentioned previously, Team USA will have options throughout the tournament in how it structures parts of its lineup, as it boasts a deep collection of MLB starters. However, there's a collection of names that stick out among the rest as superstars.
While Gunnar Henderson should factor in at shortstop or third base, Witt has reached "perennial MVP candidate" status in MLB, meaning he'll likely have an everyday role in the infield. Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber of the Philadelphia Phillies are also two of the most respected veteran bats in baseball, especially with Schwarber coming off 56 home runs last season, so Harper seems likely to earn a significant chunk of the first-base reps, and Schwarber at DH.
Finally, the two leading AL MVP candidates last year, Aaron Judge and Cal Raleigh, will likely remain in DeRosa's lineup no matter what. Both are among the most feared hitters in baseball, bringing a ton of power to Team USA. While Will Smith is another All-Star catcher who could provide relief for Raleigh, it'd be tough for DeRosa to omit the Mariners star's bat from his order.
Alex Bregman over Gunnar Henderson?
With Witt likely earning an every-game role for Team USA, the team might have a bit of a logjam in the infield. The natural answer will be Witt at shortstop, then Alex Bregman and Gunnar Henderson, two more of MLB's best infielders, at third base and second base.
However, should Brice Turang or Ernie Clement play a larger role, either Bregman or Henderson could see their playing time decrease a bit.
Outfield decisions
Judge should be a regular in DeRosa's order, but the other two outfield spots could change by game, depending how confident the manager is in 21-year-old Roman Anthony.
If Anthony remains on the bench, Byron Buxton and Pete Crow-Armstrong will claim center and left field as two elite defenders and hitters. But if Anthony is going to see the field often, there may be more of a revolving door for Team USA's outfield throughout the WBC.
This section will be updated when Brazil announces its starting pitcher.
Brazil hasn't yet announced its starter against the U.S. for Friday's matchup. One name to watch for will be 17-year-old Joseph Contreras, a high school arm out of Georgia who has committed to Vanderbilt but was added to the WBC roster as the youngest player in the 2026 tournament.
The United States is yearning for an opportunity to exorcise its demons during the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
Three years ago, the Americans rolled through the group play and early knockout stages, only to be swept aside at the hands of Japan in a classic contest. That roster was spearheaded by wily veterans like Mike Trout and Mookie Betts.
Veterans will once again be expected to push the team forward in 2026. The group of players tasked with performing such a responsibility are different, however. Mark DeRosa's side is headlined by a host of MVP-caliber talents, including Aaron Judge, Bryce Harper and Cal Raleigh.
Meanwhile, Bobby Witt Jr., Gunnar Henderson and Paul Skenes will supply the youth for an American side hoping to capture the country's first WBC crown since 2017.
Team USA will face plenty of challenges throughout its journey through the tourney; the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and Japan are all expected to make waves throughout the competition.
Still, with a roster glittered with star names, the United States is undoubtedly a tournament favorite. It will kick off its run throug the tourney in style with a matchup against Brazil.
With that, here's the broadcast information for USA and Brazil's opening-day fixture.
USA and Brazil's matchup will air on Fox in the U.S. Spanish speakers can follow along with the coverage on Fox Deportes, while cord-cutters can find the action on Fubo, which offers a free trial to new subscribers.
USA vs. Brazil start time
Date: Friday, March 6
Time: 6 p.m. ET
First pitch from the United States and Brazil's clash will take place at 6 p.m. ET (7 p.m. local time). The game will be contested at the Daikin Park in Houston.
Those hoping to listen to USA and Brazil's joust can do so on SiriusXM via channel __
New subscribers can listen to SiriusXM for free for four months. Listen to live NFL, MLB, NBA and NHL games, plus NASCAR, college sports and more. Stay updated with all the news and get all the analysis on multiple sport-specific channels.
USA WBC schedule 2026
Here's a look at USA's slate during the pool stage. All Pool B games will take place at Daikin Park in Houston.
Date
Game
Time (ET)
Fri., March 6
at Brazil
6 p.m.
Sat., March 7
vs. Great Britain
6 p.m.
Mon., March 9
vs. Mexico
6 p.m.
Tues., March 10
vs. Italy
7 p.m.
Brazil WBC schedule 2026
Here's a look at Brazil's slate during the pool stage. All Pool B games will take place at Daikin Park in Houston.
After a historic debut in 2023 that saw them secure their first-ever win against Colombia, Great Britain enters the 2026 World Baseball Classic with a new look and higher expectations. This year marks the first time the team has automatically qualified for the tournament, and they are bringing a roster that blends the elite speed of their previous squad with a significant influx of major-league talent.
The most notable addition is All-Star infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr., who joins the roster as a co-captain alongside breakout star Harry Ford. Now with the Washington Nationals, Ford remains the heart of the team after a dominant 2023 performance. The squad also features a massive boost to the rotation with the addition of brothers Tristan and Brendan Beck, giving Great Britain a legitimate frontline pitching presence to match their explosive outfield.
Here's the complete roster for Great Britain in their second Word Baseball Classic.
Great Britain players to watch in World Baseball Classic
Jazz Chisholm Jr. is the biggest star to ever wear a Great Britain uniform. The Bahamian-born standout brings elite power and speed to the top of the order, providing the kind of game-changing athleticism that could propel Team GB into the knockout stages. He is joined by Harry Ford, who became a national hero in 2023 and has since made his MLB debut, cementing his status as one of the premier young catchers in the world.
In the outfield, Trayce Thompson, the brother of NBA Star Klay, returns to provide veteran power and leadership. He is flanked by Matt Koperniak, a St. Louis Cardinals prospect who has been rising through the ranks, and speedster Anfernee Seymour. The team’s philosophy remains built on pressure; with the base-stealing abilities of Lucius Fox and Darnell Sweeney, Great Britain looks to be one of the most aggressive teams on the basepaths in Houston.
The pitching staff is headlined by Tristan Beck of the San Francisco Giants and his brother Brendan Beck, a top pitching prospect in the Yankees' system. They are supported by returning veterans like Vance Worley, who brings over 600 innings of MLB experience, and hard-throwing relievers like Michael Petersen and Tahnaj Thomas.
Who is coaching Great Britain in the World Baseball Classic?
Great Britain is led by a new manager for the 2026 cycle, with British Baseball Hall of Famer Brad Marcelino taking the reins. Marcelino, who grew up in Enfield and is currently a hitting coordinator for the Arizona Diamondbacks, represents a shift toward homegrown leadership. He replaces Drew Spencer, who stepped down after guiding the team through its historic 2023 run.
The coaching staff features several familiar faces from the 2023 tournament alongside new tactical minds:
Great Britain successfully moved from newcomer to competitor in 2023. After sweeping through the 2022 Qualifiers, they pulled off a stunning 7-5 upset over Colombia in pool play. Because the United States subsequently defeated Colombia, Great Britain finished fourth in their pool, which granted them automatic qualification for the 2026 tournament — sparing them from the qualifying rounds for the first time.
Great Britain World Baseball Classic 2026 schedule
Great Britain will compete in Pool B at Daikin Park in Houston, Texas. They face a difficult path that begins with a rematch against the team that eliminated them in 2023: Mexico.
Manny Ramirez hasn't played an MLB game in more than a decade. Yet, his legacy still lingers at baseball's highest stage.
The Dominican-born slugger is undoubtedly one of the game's greatest-ever right-handed hitters. His trophy closet is filled with gold and silver — Manny Ramirez picked up a treasure trove of accolades across 19 years in the big leagues.
His final few seasons were tainted by some questionable decision-making on- and off-the-field. But the 53-year-old remains a popular figure in baseball lore, best known for his effortless power stroke, all-seeing plate vision and floppy locks.
He's not the only member of his lineage to attempt to leave his imprint on the sport of baseball, either. Manny Ramirez was the first in his line to find success on the diamond. He won't be the last.
With that, here's what you need to know about Lucas Ramirez, Manny Ramirez's hulking son who is slowly but surely charting his own path at domestic and international level, and the rest of the legendary slugger's family.
Lucas Ramirez is, indeed, related to Manny Ramirez. The Brazilian outfielder and budding prospect is the son of the former Cleveland and Boston standout.
It's natural to assume that Lucas Ramirez could struggle trying to live up to his father's legacy on the diamond. Manny Ramirez is one of baseball's greatest-ever hitters, having posted the ninth-highest adjusted OPS+ (154) of any post-integration hitter. A 12-time All-Star, nine-time Silver Slugger, two-time World Series winner and one-time World Series MVP, Manny Ramirez's countenance would be dancing on Coopertown's walls if it not weren't for his multiple suspensions due to performance-enhancing drug use.
Nevertheless, Lucas Ramirez is undaunted by comparisons to his father.
“I don’t feel pressure,” Lucas Ramirez told Baseball America in 2025. “I got here on my own. Obviously, my father helped me on the way, but I feel like I’ve earned my way here.”
Manny Ramirez has three sons in total: Manny Jr., Manuelito (also known as Manny Jr.) and Lucas.
All three sons have carved out successful careers on the diamond. Manny Jr. shined at the University of San Francisco, appearing in more than 100 games for the Gaels while Manuelito parlayed a successful high school career at Calvary Christian into a spot on East Los Angeles College. In his freshman year, Manuelito collected three home runs and 23 RBIs while posting a .299/.435/.495 slash line.
Lucas is the youngest of the bunch, turning 20 on Jan. 16, 2026. A prospect in the Angels farm system, Lucas Ramirez will hope to eventually climb to the top of the MLB ladder.
Manny Ramirez son: Lucas Ramirez
Lucas Ramirez is Manny Ramirez's youngest son. The towering outfielder was born in Weston, Florida and played for American Heritage, sharing the field with former Blue Jays first-rounder Brandon Barreira. As a senior, he hit .308 with four home runs, 10 doubles and 22 RBIs in 32 games. The Angels summarily selected him in the 17th round of the 2024 MLB Draft. Lucas considered joining Tennessee, who he committed to during his high school season. But after deliberations with his love ones, he opted to sign with Los Angeles.
In his first full season of professional ball, Lucas shined, posting an .828 OPS in 163 at-bats in rookie ball. His performances led him to be elevated to the Tri-City Dust Devils, the Angels' High-A affiliate. He struggled in limited appearances with the Dust Devils, although he is expected to turn out for them to start the 2026 campaign.
Why does Lucas Ramirez play for Brazil in the WBC?
Lucas' father is one of the Dominican Republic's greatest MLB exports. Yet his son opts to play for Brazil. Why?
Well, his mother, Juliana, hails from Brazil.
While eligible to play for the Dominican Republic and the United States, Brazil's nascent national team offered Lucas the best shot to compete in a major international tournament at this point in his career.
“I think it’s more realistic for me to play for Brazil, to get a shot to play in the games,” Lucas told MLB.com. “But he’s overall still proud.”
Lucas will honor his father in another way during the 2026 WBC. His jersey will be brandished with the No. 24, the same number Ramirez sported during his time in Cleveland and Boston.
“That’s for my dad,” Lucas said. “Twenty-four has always been my favorite number, for my dad, when he wore it in Boston, killing the league. So, 24 is my number for him.”
Manny Ramirez's middle son is Manuelito. He also goes by Manny Ramirez Jr.. And like his father and brothers, Manuelito flocked to the diamond from a young age.
Manuelito starred at Calvary Christian Academy, earning top-500 billing in his high school class, according to Perfect Game.
Manuelito turned out for East Los Angeles College before landing a spot on Nova Southeastern University's roster for the 2026 season. He has collected three hits and one home run across seven starts as of Tuesday, March 3.
Manny Ramirez's eldest son is Manny Ramirez Jr. He, too, shined on the dirt, finding success at IMG Academy and Central Arizona Community College before joining San Francisco as a sophomore. Across three seasons, Manny Jr. tallied three home runs.
Manny Ramirez wife: Juliana Monterio
Manny Ramirez's wife is Juliana Monterio. She's a native of Brazil who wedded Manny Ramirez in 2001. Together, they have two children — Lucas and Manuelito. Manny Ramirez Jr. is Manny Ramirez's son from a prior relationship.
Manny Ramirez 2011 domestic violence charge
Manny Ramirez was arrested and charged with misdemeanor battery in September 2011 after allegedly slapping Monterio during an altercation in Florida. Prosecutors formally charged him with domestic violence, with his wife reportedly telling authorities that Manny Ramirez slapped her in the face, causing her to hit her head on a headboard.
Manny Ramirez denied Monterio's claim, saying that he grabbed her by the shoulders. The marks on her body were consistent with her story, according to the police report. Prosecutors dropped the case in March 2012, with a representative for the State Attorney's Office telling TMZ that Monterio was "uncooperative."
Manny Ramirez's parents are Aristides Ramirez and Onelcida Sano.
Aristides worked as an ambulance and truck driver while living in the Dominican Republic, while Onelcida worked a desk job in a dermatological institute. In 1985, the Ramirez family moved to the United States, settling in New York City. There, Aristides became a livery cab driver and factory worker. Onelcida, meanwhile, took a job as a seamstress. The family lived in a sixth-floor apartment in Washington Heights, a neighborhood that has served as a hub for Dominican life in NYC.
Does Manny Ramirez have siblings?
Manny Ramirez has three older sisters: Evelyn, Rosa and Clara. The Ramirez family was fairly unaware of Manny's baseball exploits, opting against informing his sisters and mother that he won New York City Public High School's Player of the Year.
“When we found out that Manny was drafted, we had no idea. I mean, nobody knew about it," Evelyn said, per the Society of American Baseball Research. "Somebody called us and told us to turn on the television … the six o’clock news. We knew he loved to play baseball, but we had no idea."
Manny Ramirez is not related to Jose Ramirez. Both players represent the cream of the crop among Dominican baseball talents — they rank third (69.3) and seventh (57.3) in bWAR among Dominican-born players.
They also both shined for Cleveland's baseball team; Jose Ramirez has the most bWAR of any Guardians player post-integration while Manny Ramirez ranks eighth.
Their last name suggests that closer ties could exist. But Ramirez is quite a common name in the Dominican Republic and Latin America more broadly, with nearly 5 million people bearing the surname, according to Forebears. Most of that population is not related to one another, including Manny and Jose Ramirez.
Manny Ramirez was born in Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic. He was a hitting savant growing up, becoming one of the island's finest talents as a youth. At the tender age of 13, the Ramirez family moved to Washington Heights. The move served as a boon for Manny Ramirez's budding baseball career; he would spend long hours at Highbridge Park, a lush enclave located a stone's throw from Yankee Stadium. Under Little League head coach Carlos "Macoco" Ferreira's tutelage, Manny Ramirez became a baseball supernova, starring with George Washington High School's team. In 1991, the Guardians made Manny Ramirez their first round (No. 13 overall) pick.
A lot can change in a year in tennis. While the past year has only reinforced the iron grip of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner on the men’s tour (and the immortality of Novak Djokovic), the wheel of potential challengers has spun again and landed on new names.
This time last year, it was Britain’s Jack Draper. He reached a first major semi-final at the US Open in 2024 and continued a meteoric rise from there, beating Alcaraz at Indian Wells before going on to win his first Masters title in the Californian sunshine. A run to another Masters final in Madrid followed; by the summer, he was ranked fourth in the world.
But already things were beginning to unravel. His short senior career had previously been stalled multiple times by injury and a persistent pain in his all-important serving arm, which he first felt during the clay season, turned out to be bone bruising, an innocuous-sounding issue compared to the likes of an ACL rupture, but one which has refused to go away.
The rest of his 2025 was fragmented. A decent grass swing came to a juddering halt with a second-round loss at Wimbledon. He did not play singles again until the US Open, where he only played four sets, then withdrew before the second round. One step forward, two steps back.
His 2025 season ended in September; the hiatus continued through the Australian Open – evidently going from zero court time to best-of-five was a bad idea – and he only returned to the ATP Tour in Dubai last month. He has won one and lost one ATP match this year. An auspicious beginning to a title defence, it is not.
Draper arrives in Indian Wells after a year of flux, both on and off the court. He has a new coaching set-up, having dispensed with the services of longtime coach James Trotman late last year and brought in Jamie Delgado, best known for coaching Andy Murray to a second Wimbledon title and the year-end No 1 in 2016.
He has signed a new clothing deal with Californian brand Vuori, reportedly worth $5m, and started a YouTube docuseries with his sponsor detailing his comeback. Venturing into other fields – he is also a Burberry ambassador – has provided him with an off-court outlet but is also indicative of how much players have increasingly become products, and how much control young players across the board are now taking over their image, with career longevity never guaranteed.
Jack Draper became the fifth British man to win a Masters 1000 trophy – and to enter the top 10 – with victory in Indian Wells (Getty)
His physical struggles have obviously been a source of enormous frustration, and no doubt recall the issues which hampered him earlier in his career. The 24-year-old plays with a huge amount of force: a whip-cracking forehand and a violent serve that puts significant strain on the body. A growth spurt in his late teens and bulking up over the last couple of seasons have made him a more complete player, but it has come at a cost, almost as if the speed of that improvement has outstripped his body’s ability to cope with it.
But the lengthy layoff has given him time to work on his game, and to strip things back to the fundamentals. He has a remodelled serving stance, and said before Indian Wells: “I’ve worked a hell of a lot on my transition game, my volleys. And I’ve actually hit more serves than I’ve ever hit because I’m hitting them 20 per cent, 30 per cent, 40 per cent and so on.”
Draper made his comeback at a Davis Cup qualifying event before returning to ATP Tour action in Dubai (Getty)
If those changes can round out a game which has hitherto largely been based on power, it may conversely make him more of a threat against the likes of Alcaraz and Sinner – players who are difficult to physically batter off the court. And it may help his physical resilience. Delgado, too, brings a depth of experience in working with injury-prone players, from the famously creaking Murray to Grigor Dimitrov.
In California last year, Draper was part of a new generation on the charge; this time around, he is something of an unknown quantity. He has not been handed a favourable draw, with Djokovic his likely quarter-final opponent.
He was equal parts confident and realistic in his pre-tournament press conference, as if trying to convince himself as much as the watching media. He said: “I feel like I wouldn’t be here, wouldn’t be in the tournament, if I didn’t feel like I could go all the way again”, but then added: “I do recognise that I have been away from the game and it is a bit of a step up in level to just come straight back to it after that amount of time out of the game. So let’s see what happens. I’m not overthinking things too much.”
Draper beat Alcaraz en route to his biggest title to date at Indian Wells last year (Getty)
Last year’s final offered a cautionary tale. It was a lopsided affair as Draper swept past another bright young thing and former Masters champion, Holger Rune, in straight sets. The 22-year-old is another who has been tipped to challenge the duopoly of Alcaraz and Sinner, another to reach a best ranking of No 4, and another victim of the brutal impact of the tennis tour on athletes’ bodies. The Dane endured a horrific achilles injury in October and has been sidelined since then.
The tennis tour needs serious reform to avoid feeding yet more young talent into the meat grinder, but that’s a topic for another day. As things stand, Draper is in a position he has been in many times before: out of injury hell, but with a long road ahead to get back to his best.
His own stratospheric rise over the last couple of seasons, followed by all the frustrating setbacks, will no doubt have given him a more realistic, pragmatic viewpoint going into this season than simply charging in, desperate to defend his title. It may be that rather than a glorious new dawn, this Indian Wells campaign will be something less flashy but more sustainable: two steps forward, and maybe only one step back.
Ipswich head coach Kieran McKenna became the club's fastest boss to win 100 games in charge when they beat Hull City 1-0 on Tuesday evening.
This was a Premier League fixture last season but while Ipswich are third and will go second with a win on Saturday, Leicester are one point adrift in the relegation zone and on a nine-game winless run in the Championship.
Ipswich Town have won one of their past 12 league games against Leicester (D4 L7), a 1-0 home win in March 2013.
Leicester are looking for their first league double over Ipswich since the 2013-14 season when they won the Championship title under Nigel Pearson.
Ipswich have lost just one of their past 30 league games against teams who are 25+ points below them in the league table (W19 D10), losing 2-1 to Cardiff City in March 2024. At home, they last did so in February 2005 against Watford (W17 D4 since then).
Leicester are winless in their past nine league games, last enduring a longer run without victory when playing outside the Premier League from February to April 2007 in the Championship (10 games).
Leicester have gone 29 consecutive league games without a clean sheet – the last side to go 30 games in one season without a shutout was Wolves in 2011-12 in the Premier League (30), and outside the top flight it was Colchester in the Championship in 2007-08 (38).
West Bromwich Albion will be hoping to avoid the drop into the relegation zone when they make the trip to see Sheffield United on Saturday (15:00 GMT).
The Baggies are just one point above the relegation line as it stands and could drop into the bottom three should Oxford United beat Preston North End on Friday.
If the U's fail, then Albion will still need to be wary of Leicester hovering just below, meaning the only way to guarantee safety is to claim victory at Bramall Lane.
Sheffield United are unbeaten in their last four home league matches against West Brom (W3 D1) since losing 2-1 in December 2018.
West Brom are looking for their first league double over Sheffield United since the 1997-98 campaign.
Since the last international break in November, no side has won more Championship matches than Sheffield United (12), while only Sheffield Wednesday (0) have fewer wins in that time than West Brom (3).
West Brom are winless in 11 league games, their worst run since going 13 without a win between July and November 2020.
Gustavo Hamer has assisted a goal in each of his last eight home Championship starts for Sheffield United (nine assists). Since 2013-14 when Opta began recording Championship assists, this is the longest run of any player.
SSC Napoli have set their sights on VfB Stuttgart left-back Maximilian Mittelstädt, according to Italian transfer journalist Matteo Moretto.
The reporter suggests that Napoli have been monitoring the 28-year-old’s progress for some time and have already made initial contact.
Mittelstädt joined Stuttgart from Hertha BSC in 2023 and is under contract until 2028.
Meanwhile, Stuttgart have been linked with another left-back, Cercle Brugge’s Flavio Nazinho, who could potentially provide competition for – or even replace – Mittelstädt at the German club.
However, Sky Germany reports that Cercle Brugge’s €6–8 million valuation could be a stumbling block, with Stuttgart considering the asking price too high.
CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy — “Well, they drive a car, we drive skis,” Vicky Gosling said, as though the answer was obvious.
Gosling, the CEO of GB Snowsport, was explaining the group’s partnership with the Williams Formula One team, which built the Paralympic GB sit skis for the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Games.
Sit skis are used in Para alpine events — downhill skiing — for athletes with a range of impairments, including paraplegia, reduced motor function below the waist, limited or no abdominal function or sitting balance, or amputations above their knees.
Susan Sokolowski, a professor in product design at the University of Oregon, explained the difference.
“An Olympian uses a ski with bindings and boots, and their body acts as the suspension,” she said. “Sit skiers rely on that system to protect their body. They sit in a molded seat. That seat is on a frame, it has a shock absorber and a single ski (called a mono-ski).”
Functionally, Paralympic athletes liken the shock absorber to their knees, while a cover protects their legs.
“They’re always belted in. The control is through their upper body and poles,” Sokolowski said. “Those poles are called outriggers, which look like crutches with a ski attached to the bottom, and are used to turn and balance.”
“There’s always marginal gains to be had,” Gosling said. “With sports like ours, focused on equipment, speed, agility and technicalities that we need to truly understand, then it’s worth learning from them (motorsport companies).”
Others have also sought that expertise. The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee partnered with Toyota on a three-year project for their sit-skis in Beijing.
Toyota supported Andrea Eskau, the German Paralympic skier who won gold in the 6km biathlon and silver in the 5km cross-country at the 2014 Sochi Games, at age 42. Through their collaboration, using technological insight from Toyota’s work in the Le Mans 24-hour race, came a bespoke sit-ski that was 30 per cent lighter than traditional designs.
Japanese sit-skier Taiki Morii (a Toyota employee in his day job) worked with the company for the 2018 Games, where he won silver in the downhill. From testing in the mountains and then in wind tunnels — he was analyzed in 14 positions — Toyota designed an aerodynamically superior ski that was 15 percent lighter and had a frame three times more rigid.
“In Para sports, it’s wide-open territory for new product design,” Sokolowski said. “There are so many Paralypians still modifying and making their own equipment because these products don’t exist. The connection to these motor sport companies is around carbon fiber and building composites (skis made from a mix of materials).”
Anja Wicker, a German Para biathlete and cross-country sit-skier, told paralympic.org that the shift to carbon fiber was “almost like Formula One.” Just as with modern road-running “super shoes,” bike frames, tennis rackets and golf clubs, better materials change everything.
Sit skiing is a fairly modern discipline. It only debuted in 1984 at the third Paralympic Winter Games in Innsbruck, Austria, initially as a demonstration event. The sport became a permanent medal event at the next Games, which were also in Innsbruck.
Super-G and downhill were added for sit skiers in 1992, eight years and two Paralympics later than for standing and visually impaired athletes.
“When these sit skis were created in the 1960s and 1970s, they were made out of aluminum or steel,” Sokolowski said. “They were really heavy and had limited ability to go down steep terrains or twist and turn. The heavier it is, the harder it is to control.
“Technologies like carbon and fiberglass — lightweight materials — have drastically reduced the mass while maintaining the original stiffness. When these were made of steel and aluminum, it was really hard to manipulate (the ski). Para athletes may just have upper-body strength to move it. With constructions, you could be more nimble.”
While there were evolutions and design improvements in the late 20th century, significant innovation has happened since the 2010s.
Ukraine was cited as among the first to make its frames from carbon fiber in 2014. Only in 2010 was the sit-ski program finalized, with the introduction of the super combined event. In that, skiers complete one super-G and one slalom run — the fastest combined time wins.
“You’re able to tune these composites, which is really cool,” Sokolowski said of the manufacturing. “You can arrange the fibers (to change) stiffness, and it can also allow you flexibility and torsion. They customise designs for athletes’ bodies.”
Rivalries are plentiful in sit skiing. Look out for Germany’s Anna-Lena Forster, a four-time medallist from Beijing, who aims to hold onto her super combined and slalom crowns. She will face Momoka Muraoka of Japan, who won the other three women’s events (downhill, super-G, giant slalom) four years ago.
Among the men, there’s a Dutch duo who should contend for medals again: Jeroen Kampschreur (super combined silver in 2022) and Niels de Langen (slalom silver, super combined bronze).
The Netherlands Paralympic Committee worked with the Delft University of Technology to make their sit skis for the last Games. Their research, using wind tunnels and testing plaster casts, focused on refining the tailored foam area around the waist, where the athlete is strapped into the seat.
Norway’s Jesper Pedersen got the better of Kampschreur and de Langen. Pedersen was the only athlete to win four gold medals in Beijing (super-G, super combined, slalom, giant slalom), and he took silver in downhill. New Zealand’s Corey Peters beat him for gold in downhill. All four will be in Cortina.
Simon Briscoe, the head of innovation at High Performance Sport New Zealand (HPSNZ), told The Athletic before the Games about how they redesigned and improved Peters’ sit ski across multiple Paralympic cycles. The Kiwi was a downhill bronze medallist in 2018, before winning downhill gold and super-G silver at the last Games.
“Two cycles ago (2014 to 2018) we saw other countries playing around in this area,” Briscoe says. “There was talk of the Japanese team, who were modifying the leg cover. That kicked off our conversation.”
He described their work for the Pyeongchang 2018 Paralympic Games as “an experiment of a project.” It laid some key foundations.
“We jumped in the wind tunnel and tried to see what worked and what didn’t. I learned (at a previous job) in Formula One that if anyone tells you they know about aerodynamics, they’re lying. There’s some principles and approaches which tend to work, but it’s so complex that trying things is fundamentally what it comes down to. The real world doesn’t lie.”
There were challenges. They struggled to keep Peters in the same position for long periods, and the wind tunnel only hit limited speeds. “We had lots of noise in the data,” Briscoe said.
But they had green shoots, too. “It gave us direction and an understanding of the key areas to work on — where the areas of sensitivity for drag were, which were different to what we initially thought.
“Fundamentally, we learned that weight is massive. It makes sense as soon as you say it out loud, especially when you think about the shape and bluntness of what you’re sending down the slope.”
For the 2022 Paralympic Games, Briscoe and HPSNZ scaled things up, working with University of Canterbury researchers and using 3D printing alongside wind tunnels.
“We were able to verify what we thought was happening with the air flow,” Briscoe said. “The big benefit with (modern) materials and the manufacturing processes is really on shapes.”
Briscoe used the word “practicality” within the design process.
“Corey needs to get himself on the chairlift and up to the top. We can’t give him something that doesn’t fit on that,” Briscoe said. “Also, it needs to operate when there’s plenty of snow flying about, so things that fill up or jam up with snowpacking are no good. It’s very easy to create something wild and wacky in the computer — and then in the wind tunnel — that doesn’t work in real life.”
Peters called the 2022 design the “Ferrari of sit skis.” It featured a redesigned seat with a Kamm tail, the abrupt cut-off shape used on some Mercedes and Alfa Romeo cars. That change, plus an improved leg cover (which reduced drag by 10 percent), made the difference.
The group also collected data on the ski suspension and shock absorption. “That’s really key to connect him to the snow properly and give him the feel that he needs,” Briscoe said
A 38-year-old Peters took the downhill title on a particularly technical course in Beijing — 11 of 25 finalists did not finish. He hopes to become the first man to win consecutive titles in the event since American Chris Waddell in 1994 and 1998.
“It’s always good to see when people are pointing at the funny-looking thing, making fun of it and then Corey produces that performance,” Briscoe said through a smile. “Our role is entirely about removing obstacles, about unlocking the performance that Corey has within him.”
Briscoe, without trying to, speaks on behalf of all engineers and researchers for sit skiers. They have helped catalyze the development of the sport.
To understand the significance of football clubs turning their focus to stadia designed specifically for their women’s football teams, first, we must detour to the late 2010s, and the trend of housing one-off women’s games in clubs’ main grounds.
Women’s teams, including Juventus (39,027 v Fiorentina, 2019) and Atletico Madrid (60,739 v Barcelona, 2019), broke attendance records.In England, derby matches staged during the men’s international break enjoyed similar success. In that era, clubs whose women’s teams shared facilities with their men’s or academy sides were lauded for bringing their female players in-house when the prevailing fashion was to regard women’s teams as an afterthought.
In the season after England won the 2022 European Championship at home, 40 Women’s Super League (WSL) games were played in main stadia, compared to eight in the 2019/20 season. A novelty became closer to common practice.
“Infrastructure is going to change this game,” said Paul Barber, chief executive and deputy chairman at Brighton Women, during an event hosted by private wealth and real estate law firm Boodle Hatfield, planning consultants Quod, and planning lawyers Town Legal.
“Half the world’s population, give or take, is female, but a relatively small percentage consume football versus the male population,” he said. “What a market opportunity we have. Would women and girls interact with our sport more if it were better designed for them to do so? (If we) make them feel welcome, make them feel as if they belong? Suddenly, that market opportunity is huge.”
This season, the picture across the WSL is mixed. Arsenal, Aston Villa and Leicester share grounds with their men’s teams, but more commonly, clubs share with lower-league men’s sides, often some distance from their parent club. Brighton Women play at the home of League Two’s Crawley Town, Manchester United and Liverpool play at grounds shared with men’s rugby league clubs, and Spurs, London City and West Ham share grounds with Leyton Orient, Bromley and Dagenham and Redbridge respectively. It poses logistical challenges, as well as questions about identity and supporters when the team’s geographical anchor differs from the boroughs its men’s team represents.
It has led women’s teams to consider building their own grounds to cater to female players and fans alike. To do so is a complex proposition in a league whose clubs command varying levels of financial support, but to say the idea has legs is an understatement.
It has such increasing merit that several clubs from the WSL and below this week attended the aforementioned panel. Joining them were consultancy firms specialising in planning and advising WSL clubs across the UK on training facilities and grounds.
There is a growing consensus about the issues groundsharing with men’s teams poses, including the obvious fixture clashes and calendars already packed with concerts. But what about the ratio of toilets to urinals? Are there enough sanitary bins? Are there areas in the changing rooms to house male members of staff and places to breastfeed?
As such, Brighton plan to have theirs built by 2027-28 (they had proposals approved by the council in October 2023).
“The most important thing is respect for the female athletes,” Barber said. “The Amex Stadium (where the men’s team plays) is a world-class football stadium, but everything — the surface of the pitch; the dressing rooms, which have open showers and urinals, not cubicles; our food and drink offering for fans — is primarily designed for men.
“When we first moved our women’s team into what used to be just our men’s training ground, we thought we could share the facilities quite easily. We thought that would be the best way to do it, to accelerate the process of integrating women’s football. But what tends to happen in those situations is, regardless of how you set out to be equal in the way you think about things, it’s always the money earners, at that moment in time, that take precedence.”
Barber described how the men’s team gets first priority when it comes to things such as the weight room. When the women return, the machines are “set up for the 6ft 4in guy that was just using it, not the 5ft 3in woman who’s just about to.”
“A lot of time gets wasted by elite athletes and their strength and conditioning coaches (on) adjusting equipment, making sure it’s safe for the female athletes to use. Very quickly, you realise that actually you’re not treating the female athletes with respect or giving them the best chance of getting the best results.”
Many existing grounds also do not have room to store prams and pushchairs. Toilet ratios are mismatched, and seat sizes and sightlines are based on male bodies. Families have different food preferences, but existing catering facilities are often built to serve beers and meat pies (the Emirates infamously ran out of hot dogs for one of its women’s matches). Much of this is detailed in the world’s first design guidelines for women’s stadia, published by WSL Football last year as non-mandatory recommendations. The suggestion is that clubs must invest in a more tailored, thoughtful matchday experience to open up new revenue streams, both via the fan economy and sponsorships inspired by improved attendances.
Dawn Airey, chair of the Barclays FA Women’s Super League and Championship board, visited Angel City FC in California to see how National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) teams approach hospitality. She was directed through a Nike merchandising experience to reach her seat, from which she could order food and drink, and fans were treated to entertainment before the game. The team shares the facility with Los Angeles FC in Major League Soccer. Kansas City Current’s CPKC Stadium, the only purpose-built venue in the NWSL, includes sensory spaces, breastfeeding facilities, and family provision.
“We know that a lot of fans only go to one match and they don’t come back,” explained Airey of WSL matches. “How you make it more than just going to see a football match is absolutely critical. Suddenly, your matchday revenue is so much more expansive. That’s a really big part of the overall economics of the women’s game. I see the broadcast revenues, in terms of the percentage of the total revenues for women’s sport, will be lower; commercial revenues will probably be higher.”
This is one of the most significant points at which men’s and women’s football audiences diverge, Airey and Barber explain. Premier League matches effectively sell themselves. Match-going habits are ingrained through generations, a media machine fuelled for decades by global coverage ensures demand and the match itself is the core product. The women’s game is still working towards what marketers call product market fit: when its product (or, more comfortably here, offering) satisfies its specific, identifiable target audience.
WSL newcomers London City Lionesses have two distinct markets that require different approaches.
“Our matchday audience is really family-focused,” explains managing director Sarah Batters. “Our real growing audience, and our social audience and our online audience, is 18 to 34-year-old women who see football in a completely different way. Football isn’t necessarily the destination of the day; it’s part of the whole thing. Brunch, match, drinks. We’re held back in being able to deliver that experience to that audience when we’re constrained to our stadiums.”
Bromley and London City’s Hayes Lane does not have hospitality settings. Millwall’s Den, the backup ground at which London City will play Chelsea later this month, will play host to London City’s first bottomless brunch. “To keep growing, we need to be able to innovate,” said Batters, “but we’ve got a lot to develop in our club infrastructure.”
The goal is to give fans reason to arrive earlier. Batters’ data from London City indicates that fans tend to arrive right before kick-off. “Most of our matches, we’ve had some kind of live music,” she said. “We kicked off our Championship campaign last season with a half-time show, which raised some eyebrows, and we’ve recently had a brass band in the stands. We keep thinking of these things to get fans to come earlier. You spend more in bars and in our retail shop, which then helps our revenue.”
After nearly quadrupling in the first two seasons following England’s 2022 home Euros win, WSL attendance has now reached something of a plateau, leaving clubs in a quandary about not only where to stage matches, but how to sell them out.
Chelsea Women, for instance, welcome an average of 3,368 fans to Kingsmeadow. That leaps to 18,389 for Stamford Bridge — a figure someway off its 40,000-plus capacity.
Brighton enjoy improved attendances at the Amex, which seats 32,000, compared to in Crawley, with a capacity of less than 7,000, but are still left with in excess of 20,000 empty seats, Barber said. “We’re trying to say this is the best women’s league in the world. We can’t put our product in front of an empty stadium.
“We’re trying to sell this sport. We try to attract sponsors. When cameras pan around 25,000 empty seats, it diminishes the product, and the fans who are in the stadium feel like they’re not getting the best experience,” he said. “Those who were thinking about going say: ‘That’s not a very elite event — it’s empty’. In my opinion, you actually do quite a lot of harm by putting women’s games in men’s stadiums if that stadium is only half-full.”
Brighton’s chief executive says they are planning to build a 10,000-seat stadium with the focus of creating an atmosphere.
“It doesn’t sound a lot, but if that stadium is packed for every match, it’s going to look and sound a hell of a lot better than a three-quarters-empty, much larger stadium. We need to make sure that we don’t get ahead of ourselves and build too big,” he said.
When they outgrow that ground, they can move to the Amex, Barber explains, “taking all the learnings from operating a purpose-built women’s stadium. That would be a success story, not a failure. I suspect, sadly, that probably won’t happen in Brighton’s case in my lifetime. It will happen — it will just take time. In the meantime, our best way of growing it is to build facilities that are right for our audience, team and right for the fans and supporters.”
Of course, this also requires significant investment.
Some clubs are understood to be waiting to see who moves first; others are intrigued by multi-use possibilities, including sharing with other sports teams. In any case, stakeholders, as is often the case in women’s football, must invest significantly ahead of revenue returns. The pay-off, Airey says, could be enormous. Recalling her recent visit to the World Economic Forum, at which the global sports economy was valued at approximately $2.3 trillion annually, Airey said Women’s football accounted for $800million of that.
“The costs of purpose-built stadiums are immense,” says Airey. “You’re only going to make that investment if you really think there’s a commercial reason for supporting your women’s team. We’re still, in some ways, building out that case. It’s not just: ‘We support women’s clubs because we have to, and it’s a bit of corporate social responsibility’. It makes commercial business sense.”
INDIAN WELLS, Calif. — Emma Raducanu is in the middle of a total reboot — one which mixes the old with the new.
The 2021 U.S. Open champion arrives at the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, Calif., with a new sponsor, Uniqlo. She also arrives with the desire to return to her old tennis — the free-hitting style that won her that U.S. Open title as an 18-year-old qualifier five years ago.
“At the start of the year, I wasn’t feeling too good about my game, and I was playing in a way I didn’t necessarily enjoy,” she said during a phone interview Wednesday, ahead of her opening match against Russian world No. 86 Anastasia Zakharova.
“I wanted to get back into being more aggressive.”
Raducanu and Francisco Roig, a longtime coach of Rafael Nadal, split at the end of this year’s Australian Open. Raducanu was frustrated with her game in Melbourne, especially with an elongated forehand swing that she appeared not to fully understand. After losing to Anastasia Potapova, she said in a news conference that she wanted to go back to her teenage playing style — by “hitting the ball to the corners and hard.”
She has brought back former coach Mark Petchey to work with her informally on this endeavor at Indian Wells, but Raducanu, now 23, is not the unknown quantity she was in 2021. She is the world No. 24 and has the added weight of expectation that any major winner carries, even though her trajectory since that U.S. Open win has been about what a rising young player might be expected to do, especially after a series of long-term or persistent injuries.
She has also remained one of the sport’s most commercially lucrative athletes, and Raducanu swapped Nike for Uniqlo last month, ending an eight-year partnership. Neither Raducanu nor Uniqlo has commented on the terms of the deal; Raducanu said that becoming a figurehead for a brand was a key factor.
“The feeling and the treatment that you get as being the only athlete in a brand’s clothes, it’s a great feeling,” she said. She will wear Uniqlo at a tournament for the first time Friday against Zakharova — as she bids to return to a game style that carried her to the very glory that has made it harder to reproduce that game style since.
Raducanu, who has almost five years on the WTA Tour and 149 matches in the bank since her win over Leylah Fernandez at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York, is under no illusions about the challenge of emulating a style of play partly forged under freedom rather than pressure.
“You definitely appreciate the innocence of just coming straight on and playing free, not knowing anything that comes with it,” she said.
“And I think that it maybe is harder as you get older to kind of do the same things. But I’m doing what I can to move in that direction and play in that way. But it’s going to take a while because it’s been so many years of not necessarily doing that.”
Raducanu has had little opportunity to start the process in earnest since splitting with Roig. She reached the final of the Transylvania Open in Cluj, Romania, which was her first tournament after the Australian Open, but she looked exhausted during a one-sided loss to Sorana Cîrstea, and her first final since the 2021 U.S. Open fell flat.
Raducanu then played both the Qatar Open and Dubai Tennis Championships with an ongoing chest infection, losing both of her opening matches while suffering. She thinks she has shaken it off now and said, “In hindsight, I probably could have sat those ones out if I wasn’t feeling 100 percent.”
She said she’s no longer impacted by the foot problem that led to a truncated preseason — the rare time players can groove in technical or philosophical changes without the week-in, week-out pressure of executing during matches.
Hitting partner Alexis Canter, who worked with Raducanu in Romania, is in California with Petchey, who performed a similar role in 2025. The Tennis Channel commentator and analyst last year joined Raducanu’s team from the Miami Open, which follows Indian Wells, until the end of Wimbledon. The arrangement this time around is fluid, but Raducanu has said that working with people she knows and trusts helps her to re-center herself and express herself on court.
Laura Robson, a fellow former British prodigy and one-time world No. 27, said last week that it is “tough” rediscovering the fearlessness of youth.
This is partly due to the pressure dynamics of tennis. Players are able to play more freely when they are the underdog, and Robson suggested Raducanu could take encouragement from last year’s close matches against world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. Raducanu lost both but had a set point against Sabalenka during a tiebreak at Wimbledon and forced a final-set tiebreak against her at the Cincinnati Open.
The ultimate aim for Raducanu is to get closer to the WTA’s leading lights, and the current top three of Sabalenka, Iga Świątek and Elena Rybakina accounted for all four of Raducanu’s Grand Slam losses last year. She won zero sets in those four matches, and won just seven games across three of them: the two against Świątek and one against Rybakina.
“When you’re playing someone who’s top five and who hits a ball that big, you think I might as well try and go toe to toe,” Robson, who is part of Sky Sports’ team at Indian Wells, told a group of reporters.
“So I think if she has that mindset in more matches and wants to get the job done two and two (6-2, 6-2) and try and hit winners, then it’s naturally going to feel like a more positive playing experience.
“Because you’re just going to sit up on the baseline a bit more and you’re going to try and take the ball on the rise a lot more.”
The challenge is doing this under the other kind of pressure in tennis — that of being the favorite. Raducanu has generally established herself as someone who beats players she ought to, but in 2026, she is yet to meet a player ranked above her and is 6-6 on the year as she seeks to rediscover what she perceives as her tennis identity.
“I wouldn’t say it’s as clear as other players,” Robson said of Raducanu’s game. “She kind of slots into half big-hitting, half counterpunching. She moves really well, which is a massive benefit to her. I think it’s still a work in progress for her, which is what she was finding as well.”
Raducanu said rediscovering her identity to her means “playing more on my terms, serving well, making returns and toughing it out on big points.”
“Just knowing I have a couple of weapons,” she said, adding that her serve is a shot she has been looking to improve.
Going forward, she may look to find herself by going it alone entirely. Raducanu has frequently changed coaches, having had seven permanent ones in five years — and is open to the idea of not having a single coach in charge, or being without one for a time, as her career progresses.
“I think there are periods where you’ve had a lot of information from different people, and you need to get back to being in touch with yourself, being in contact with your instincts,” she said.
“It’s very difficult when you have someone coming in telling you to do what they want you to do and put their stamp on it. So I think there are going to definitely be periods (without a coach), but I’m not saying I don’t want a coach or anything.
“It’s just I would rather not start something when I’m not 100 percent sure because, because I feel like even if it’s a trial, even if it’s not my fault, even if it’s the coach deciding to stop, then it kind of gets put on me, so I would rather not start that.”
Raducanu sees her new fashion sponsorship as another route to rediscovering herself. Many tennis players have spoken about their clothing impacting performance, echoing the immortal maxim from Deion Sanders, the only person to appear in both a Super Bowl and a World Series: “If you look good, you feel good. If you feel good, you play good. If you play good, they pay good.”
Her recent switch reflects a trend in the business of tennis fashion, with more and more players leaving Nike for brands at which they are part of a much smaller group of tennis stars. Hard Court reported in January that Nike has stopped paying some players further down its roster, with their contracts extending only to clothes, and shoes in head-to-toe deals.
A representative for Nike did not respond to a request for comment on the report.
Ben Shelton, Jack Draper and Frances Tiafoe have joined On, Vuori and Lululemon over the last few years — the latter two from Nike, both of whom said during the U.S. Open in August that being the guy somewhere appealed to them.
Shelton meanwhile said in an interview two years ago: “I didn’t want to be one of 50 Nike guys.” At Uniqlo, Raducanu is the first female tennis player to become a global brand ambassador — joining Roger Federer and Kei Nishikori and actor Cate Blanchett. She is currently trialing shoes, as her deal with Uniqlo is not head to toe. The same is true of compatriot Draper, who announced a partnership with Asics on Thursday.
As part of the Uniqlo agreement, Raducanu will help to design her clothes, including a collaboration with British stylist and fashion designer Clare Waight Keller on a new range later this year.f
“Everything is tailored to you,” Raducanu said of being one of one in a brand’s portfolio.
“You feel special, like there’s a lot more attention to detail.
“Just being able to feel like what you’re wearing is unique … you feel like it matches you, rather than … not everyone has their own kit at Nike. And I think there are so many players, that some want to stand out — or they want to have something that fits them or suits them a little bit better — whether that’s clothes, whether that’s the environment or the support that you get one-to-one.”
Raducanu said she is “really grateful for everything that (Nike) did for me, too,” but said Uniqlo’s clothing gave her a “special feeling.”
“Whereas sometimes with bolder patterns or bolder colors and prints, it wasn’t necessarily my style.”
She added with a smile: “So there’s just a little bit of friction maybe internally, but you still wear it and you don’t think twice about it.”
A spokesperson for Nike did not respond to a request for comment but said via email in August the company is “supporting the game at every level and partnering with some of the most iconic and talented players in the world.”
“Since being in these clothes, I feel everything I put on is synonymous with myself,” Raducanu said of the Uniqlo deal. Her next challenge, beginning at Indian Wells, is to find the same feeling in her tennis.
Dana White has been in charge of the UFC since 2001 [Getty Images]
Dana White says he has "no issues" with Eddie Hearn after UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall signed for the boxing promotor's new talent agency.
Britain's Aspinall joined 'Matchroom Talent Agency' on Thursday in a "commercial and advisory" deal rather than a promotional one, meaning the 32-year-old remains signed to the UFC.
The move comes two weeks after boxer Conor Benn left Hearn's promotional outfit Matchroom to join White's Zuffa Boxing.
Hearn, 46, has been publicly feuding with UFC president White since the launch of Zuffa.
Speaking before UFC 326 on Saturday, White compared the deal to his relationship with Tito Ortiz - a fighter White used to manage prior to a long-lasting feud.
"We don't have any issues with Eddie, they can get whoever they want to represent them," said White.
"Tito Ortiz used to represent people but we got it done."
Aspinall has been dealing with eye problems since his title fight with Ciryl Gane last October had to be stopped because of repeated eye pokes.
He had double eye surgery in February and it is unclear when he will be able to return to action.
Aspinall became embroiled in the Matchroom-Zuffa Boxing feud when Hearn suggested White "humiliated" him by not backing the fighter after the eye controversy.
Earlier in the news conference, White confirmed the fights for the UFC's unprecedented show at the White House on 14 June will be announced on Saturday.
The UFC is spending $60m (£44.3m) to host the one-of-a-kind event in Washington DC to mark 250 years of American independence.
A number of fighters have expressed interest in competing on the card including Jon Jones, Conor McGregor, Alex Pereira, Amanda Nunes, Nate Diaz and Islam Makhachev.
The 2026 Formula 1 campaign is debuting an entirely new set of regulations with changes to both the chassis and engine, the latter of which has become the biggest talking point.
That's because an F1 power unit is now more reliant on electrical energy with a near 50-50 split against the internal combustion engine, meaning battery management is playing a greater role than ever.
It might often include a driver going against the techniques they have traditionally used to set the best lap time possible, as cars may now lift and coast or downshift along a straight as a means of harvesting energy.
But one way in which viewers can grasp a better understanding of what's going on, particularly in regards to energy management, is by looking at the rear LED lights, which have taken on a much broader role than they had in the past.
Previously, they were activated when the MGU-H was recharging or, during braking, when the MGU-K was recovering energy. Now that the MGU-H has been removed, the central rear light has been redesigned and, alongside the two lights on the rear wing endplates, can help identify which phase of energy management a car is in.
Photo by: Gianluca D'Alessandro
When the lights flash once, it means that the MGU-K is still supplying energy to the system but at a level below the permitted 350kW. In practice, from that moment on, the acceleration of the car may vary and no longer be as fast as when the electric motor generator delivers the maximum power allowed by the regulations.
When the LEDs flash twice, the MGU-K is effectively off as, not only is it no longer supplying energy to the system, but it's also not recovering any. At that stage, the car is powered solely by the ICE which, in 2026, exceeds 500bhp.
Finally, when the rear lights are continuously flashing rapidly, the MGU-K is in full recharge mode while the ICE is still delivering full power. This means the car is super clipping, which refers to when it is harvesting energy despite still being at full throttle.
In this instance, during high-speed areas there will be moments when the driver will keep the throttle fully open, but the MGU-K will work against the ICE to generate energy and recharge the battery. So this will give drivers behind an immediate indication of the energy levels for their rival, but the main reason for these changes is safety.
When the MGU-K starts recharging, especially during super clipping, sudden drops in speed can occur. So, it was felt that a warning was needed for the car behind to help it react in time and avoid any dangerous scenarios.
Regardless, there is no doubt that teams will carefully analyse the behaviour of the rear lights on other cars to gain information about the energy profile. By cross-referencing these signals with telemetry data, it is possible to know how much power the MGU-K is delivering, or one can identify areas where the battery is recharging.
Outside of that though, the rear lights can also be used in much wider scenarios such as signalling a safety car phase, a double yellow flag sector, indicating that the engine has stalled on track or that the car is using wet tyres.
The Girona FC B hosts Vidreres this Sunday (12:00h) against Valencia CF Mestalla in a duel between two high-quality reserve teams. The match presents a good opportunity for the Girona team to reaffirm their good form and continue adding points in a very competitive league.
The team coached by Quique Álvarez maintains its usual consistency, which allows them to stay in comfortable positions in the standings and aspire for more. In recent matches, the red-and-white reserve team has improved its results and consolidated its position within the group.
Ahead, there will be a strong opponent. The Valencia CF Mestalla is historically one of the most competitive reserve teams in Spanish football, with an academy that often produces players for the first team of Valencia CF. The Valencian team arrives in a more challenging situation than the Girona reserve team and seeks to move away from the relegation zone.
The duel promises intensity and offensive football, two usual characteristics when reserve teams face each other. For Girona FC B, the match also represents a new opportunity to keep growing, and a victory would allow them to continue looking towards the top of the standings.
Javi González declared before the match: "Sunday we expect an exciting match to watch between two reserve teams. We want the victory to move away from the bottom and get closer to the top"
Miguel Cardoso launches scathing attack on SA football 'cat and mouse' mentality
Interview
Cardoso slams SA football, mentality of PSL clubs
Photo: Sydney Mahlangu/ BackPagePix
Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has launched a scathing attack on South African football and the ‘cat and mouse’ mentality adopted by PSL clubs.
This comes in the wake of Orbit College's refusal to reschedule their Betway Premiership match against the Brazilians to an earlier date to accommodate the Tshwane giants' CAF Champions League commitments.
Cardoso questioned the lack of domestic fixture relief afforded to South African teams participating in CAF inter-club competitions by the PSL, citing Ligue 1 and PSG example.
“I think South Africa needs to understand a little bit whatever they want. I'll give you an example, how is it possible that we're going to play on Tuesday, we tried to change the date of this match and the only thing we could [get] is even go play in a pitch where the conditions are even worse to be played. And two days after, we have to play a quarterfinal of a Champions League,” he said.
"This week Ligue 1 in France delayed, officially Ligue 1 not PSG, Ligue 1 said you don't play your matches during this week because you have to be in [good] conditions to play Chelsea, and us? So, already other teams this season during the qualification rounds delayed matches to play the qualifying matches.
"Last year the Championship finished and there were teams still playing after we were already champions, so, water for someone is water but for others it's wine. I really don't understand, maybe I'm out of this world, maybe I don't know nothing of South African football. There was a coach that said I know nothing about South African football - I don't need to know. But I know what we feel as coaches, as players, as clubs, to be put in a situation like that.
The Downs mentor went on to state that Sundowns represents the entire South Africa in their continental outings, and suggested that club officials are each other's sworn enemies of progress.
“We don't defend just the badge of Sundowns, we defend South Africa as a nation when we play Champions League. When I'm in Portugal and it's either Benfica or Sporting Braga, Vitoria Guimaraes, or whoever playing internationally, I want them to win. But here we play this cat and dog or mouse and cat game that I want you to lose when you go play there,” Cardoso added.
"We want really to have this kind of positioning or we want to really defend collectively the South African football? Last year I was very happy seeing Pirates playing the semi-final of the Champions League and I was not happy that this season they lost in the qualifying rounds in Lupopo - I was not happy. I would like to see them playing and Kaizer Chiefs going forward because that's what makes the dimension of the football where I'm part of it bigger. And I want South African football to be listened [about] everywhere.
"As I told you, the President called me because he wants me to speak in the biggest congress of football in Portugal and you know what he asked me? I want you to tell everybody in Portugal what is the reality of South African football. And my question is what should I say? This? Or I should paint it beautiful and make it a very beautiful package and offer it to Portugal? What should I do? Or tell the truth? Because if I tell some things that happen here, people will say it's not possible, really, believe me.
"And when national team participates in international tournaments, the level and organisation is completely different. It's like when Sundowns goes abroad, and it's a reality. We need really to think about this, how we want the football to be in 10 years in South Africa, and I don't see those thoughts taken deeply and I still see people fighting against each other. Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch, Sekhukhune, TS Galaxy, and teams up to Durban City and up to the last one in the table, are teams that should join efforts to develop South African football. It's a joint venture, it's not an individual effort. As much as we defend the business itself, the more the clubs will be powerful.
Charlton remain worryingly close to the Championship's relegation zone with only seven points separating them from the bottom three.
Birmingham have suffered successive defeats to halt their charge towards the play-off places and are looking to bounce back in a match between two clubs promoted from League One last season.
Charlton are looking for consecutive home league wins against Birmingham for the first time since beating them in 2004-05 and 2005-06 in the Premier League.
Only one of the past 14 league meetings between Charlton and Birmingham has seen more than two goals scored, a 2-1 Addicks win in April 2016.
Charlton have lost 11 of their past 21 league games (W4 D6) – since the start of this run on 8 November, only Sheffield Wednesday (18) and West Brom (12) have lost more Championship games.
Birmingham City have lost their past two Championship matches but have not lost three league games in a row under manager Chris Davies before. The Blues last had a longer losing run in March 2024 (four defeats).
Charlton Athletic manager Nathan Jones has only won two of his nine league games against Birmingham City as a manager (D3 L4), 1-0 wins with Luton in February 2021 and the Addicks in October 2024.
North Korea’s Myong Yu Jong scored a hat-trick against Uzbekistan (DAVID GRAY)
North Korea and defending champions China both eased ominously into the Women's Asian Cup quarter-finals on Friday, joining South Korea and hosts Australia in the last eight.
China beat Uzbekistan 3-0 in Sydney while North Korea hammered Bangladesh 5-0 also in Group B.
Both teams are yet to concede a goal at the tournament.
China took the lead on the half-hour mark when Shao Ziqin was dragged down in the box and she made no mistake from the penalty spot.
The holders, who beat Bangladesh 2-0 in their opening match, scored twice in the second half through Li Qingtong to seal their place in the next round.
North Korea -- who launched their campaign with a 3-0 win over Uzbekistan -- were even more ruthless against tournament debutants Bangladesh.
Twice in the first half the North Koreans thought they had taken the lead, only for VAR to rule out both goals.
The pressure from the three-time Asian champions finally paid off in first-half stoppage time when Myong Yu Jong slotted home a penalty to go with her hat-trick against Uzbekistan.
North Korea doubled their lead two minutes later when Kim Kyong Yong struck in the seventh minute of first-half injury time.
With the last eight in sight, the North Koreans added three more goals in the second half as Bangladesh folded.
China and North Korea will face off in the final round of pool matches to decide who tops Group B.
South Korea and Australia were already into the quarter-finals from Group A.
Photo by ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS / AFP via Getty Images
Lionel Messi recently appeared alongside U.S. President Donald Trump during a White House event honoring Inter Miami’s MLS Cup victory. The meeting between the global football star and the political leader quickly drew attention online, with many fans reacting to images and videos from the ceremony.
Lionel Messi meets Donald Trump and fans have thoughts
Lionel Messi met U.S. President Donald Trump during a White House reception honoring Inter Miami for winning the 2025 MLS Cup. Messi entered the East Room with Trump and co-owner Jorge Mas and presented the president with a signature Miami pink soccer ball. Trump also received a Miami jersey and a watch from team officials during the ceremony.
Lionel Messi and Donald Trump meet at the White House as Trump hosts Inter Miami for their MLS championship. pic.twitter.com/kAitzZbOQx
The visit marked Messi’s first trip to the White House since joining Inter Miami in July 2023. Trump said during the ceremony, “It’s my distinct privilege to say what no American president has ever had the chance to say before: Welcome to the White House, Lionel Messi.” The ceremony celebrated Inter Miami’s first MLS Cup championship win season.
Photos and videos of Messi and Trump circulated online after the ceremony, prompting reactions from some fans on social media. One user wrote, “Messi we was just defending you and saying you’re better than Ronaldo and now you’re accepting an award,” expressing disappointment. Another user posted, “We were saying Messi was better after Ronaldo met Trump months ago.”
Messi we was just defending you and saying your better than Ronaldo now you’re accepting an award from a predator pic.twitter.com/xwDNStS2rY
The White House reception followed a long-standing American sports tradition of honoring championship teams. D.C. United became the first MLS club to visit in 1998 after winning the MLS Cup, while the LA Galaxy attended multiple times following titles in 2011, 2012, and 2014. Inter Miami players, including Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, attended the ceremony together.
During the ceremony, Trump also praised Messi’s achievements with Inter Miami. Trump said, “Leo, you came in and you won, and that’s something very hard to do, very, very unusual, and frankly, there’s a lot more pressure put on you than anyone would know.” Inter Miami won the 2025 MLS Cup by defeating Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 in Fort Lauderdale.
Originally reported by Vritti Johar on Mandatory.com.
Argentine soccer legend Lionel Messi’s trip to the White House with his Inter Miami teammates drew backlash on social media Thursday.
The visit — held to celebrate the David Beckham-co-owned club’s 2025 MLS Cup title — came just five months after Messi’s great rival, Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo, also visited the White House, a trip that similarly sparked criticism online.
Watch Trump’s full address here:
Messi, the World Cup winner widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, was accused by critics of being a “sell out” for appearing at the event.
President Donald Trump started his speech, while standing in front of the squad ― which includes players from Honduras, Brazil, Jamaica, Spain, Dominican Republican, Venezuela, Mexico and more ― with an update on the war on Iran.
.@POTUS says Operation Epic Fury is continuing to "totally demolish the enemy — far ahead of schedule and at levels that people have never seen before."
"They have no air force, they have no air defense, all of their airplanes are gone, their communications are gone, missiles… pic.twitter.com/vmusEPVwBB
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) March 5, 2026
He made graphic comments about injured people:
Trump with Inter Miami behind him: "When you see somebody walking down the street without their legs, without the arms, whose face is so badly affected and hurt, it mostly came from -- 95% -- Soleimani and Iran" pic.twitter.com/2iUUdWvsv4
And he said Cuba would be the next country to undergo regime change.
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Trump on Rubio: He's doing some job and your next one, Cuba. We can do them all at the same time but bad things happen, if you watch countries that do them all too fast, bad things happen. pic.twitter.com/ZFZPGnsmhP
He also imagined celebrating with them after a win, saying: “What a group of people. We could have a lot of fun with these guys. You can imagine when they win how they celebrate. We don’t want to talk about it. We don’t want to talk about it.”
Trump with Inter Miami at the White House: "What a group of people. We could have a lot of fun with these guys. You can imagine when they win how they celebrate. We don't want to talk about it. We don't want to talk about it!" pic.twitter.com/f3KUZ7pT9Q
At another point, Trump impersonated his son — 19-year-old soccer fan Barron Trump — reacting excitedly to Messi’s visit.
President Trump: "Today, we're thrilled to host the 2025 MLS Cup Champions, Inter Miami…It's my distinct privilege to say what no American president has ever had the chance to say before—welcome to the White House, Lionel Messi!" pic.twitter.com/iatxKLkRyS
Messi and Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas also presented Trump with a “Trump 47” Inter Miami jersey, a soccer ball and a watch etched with Trump’s name and a tribute to him.
Brazil's return to the World Baseball Classic in 2026 has offered a chance for the national team's young talent to shine. And with that, there will be a massive stage for one of the top prospects in the 2026 MLB Draft.
A 17-year-old pitcher will be suiting up for Team Brazil when Joseph Contreras, a right-handed hurler, takes the mound as the youngest player in the 2026 WBC.
Contreras won't just be known for his remarkable age while playing in the WBC — he's also got some family baseball history that MLB fans may be familiar with.
Here's what to know about Joseph Contreras and his connection to former MLB pitcher Jose Contreras.
Joseph Contreras is the son of former big-league right-handed pitcher Jose Contreras, who is best known for his time with the New York Yankees and Chicago White Sox.
Like his father, Joseph is a right-handed pitcher who is now pursuing an MLB career.
Source: RHP prospect Joseph Contreras was included on Brazil’s final roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
Joseph, 17, is the son of José Contreras and his mother is Brazilian.
Considered one of the premier high school pitchers to watch in the next MLB Draft. pic.twitter.com/e3nscCS6wx
Joseph Contreras is a 17-year-old right-handed pitcher who is considered a strong prospect for the 2026 MLB Draft. He stands at 6-foot-4, played high school baseball in Georgia and is the son of former MLB pitcher Jose Contreras.
Joseph is a commit to Vanderbilt, as he announced in September 2025.
Right-hander pitcher Joseph Contreras, son of Jose Contreras, announced his commitment to Vanderbilt.
Joseph, 17, reaches 93–96 MPH with his fastball and shows notable growth potential to become a starting pitcher in the future. pic.twitter.com/7wsIb3S99f
Additionally, Joseph Contreras was afforded an extremely rare opportunity for a high-school-level pitcher: participating in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. He will be a member of Brazil's roster, and he is the youngest rostered player in the entire tournament.
Why is Joseph Contreras playing for Brazil in the World Baseball Classic?
While Joseph Contreras was born in the United States, playing high school ball in Georgia, he is eligible to play for Brazil in the 2026 World Baseball Classic because his mother, Isabel, is Brazilian. Additionally, his father defected from Cuba before going onto become a World Series-winning pitcher in MLB.
Brazil, which last participated in the WBC in 2013, is also fairly short on MLB or MiLB-level talent, compared to other teams in the 2026 tournament. While teams like Japan, the U.S. and the Dominican Republic could easily fill out their roster with proven arms, Brazil's willingness to bring in a 17-year-old premiere high school arm for the WBC speaks to the team's need for roster options.
Brazil will face the U.S. in pool play of the 2026 WBC, so as one of the top young arms for the 2026 draft, Contreras could have the chance to face a collection of MLB All-Stars. Regardless, the WBC stage will be a bright one for him to prove his draft case.
Contreras stands at 6-foot-4 and 195 pounds, per Baseball America. The Vanderbilt commit has been ranked among the best high school right-handed pitchers in the country, with ESPN writing that his biggest question is the "quality of his primary breaking pitch," as he has thrown a mid-80s slider, but is now throwing an 88-91 mph cutter.
Contreras' fastball sits around 94-98 mph, but he has hit 99. He throws a forkball that is currently considered his best pitch, as it "dies at the plate," his MLB.com profile says. Contreras is being projected as a starter someday, per ESPN, but the "industry is still split" on him.
MLB.com gave the following grades to Contreras' arsenal as a prospect:
Fastball: 55
Slider: 55
Forkball: 60
Changeup: 55
Control: 50
Overall: 50
Great look at the vicious FB/Fork combo from 2026 RHP Joseph Contreras.
"He could fit into the top two rounds as one of the higher-ceiling arms in the high school class, though teams will have to sign him away from a Vanderbilt commitment," Contreras' MLB.com prospect profile says. "He still has room to pack plenty of muscle on his lanky frame, so he could add more power to his heater and his secondary offerings."
"Contreras has a clean arm action and delivers his pitches from a high three-quarters slot. He throws his fastball for strikes and gets chases with the rest of his arsenal. Besides adding more strength, he needs to improve his fastball quality and show that his forkball, slider and changeup will work against more discerning hitters."
Jose Contreras spent time with the Yankees, White Sox, Phillies and more from 2003-13.
The elder Contreras was named an All-Star in 2006, won a World Series with the White Sox in 2005 and competed for the Cuban national team in the Summer Olympics, the Pan American Games and the Baseball World Cup; he's regarded as one of the best Cuban baseball players ever.
Here's a look at his timeline in MLB.
New York Yankees, 2002-04
In December 2002, after Contreras defected from Cuba, he signed a four-year, $32 million deal with the Yankees. By that point, he was already considered one of the top international pitchers — Contreras had played for the Cuban national team in the Summer Olympics, Pan American Games, Baseball World Cup and a 1999 exhibition series against the Baltimore Orioles, along with the Pinar del Río Vegueros of the Cuban National Series.
In that 1999 exhibition appearance against the Orioles, Contreras had pitched eight shutout innings, striking out 10 batters. His MLB stock grew from there. While Contreras hadn't shown interest in defecting previously, he surprised scouts by defecting in 2002.
Contreras made a few stops throughout the Yankees' minor league teams before reaching MLB and putting together some strong outings for New York. In the 2003 season, he appeared in 18 games, making nine starts and totaling a 7-2 record, a 3.30 ERA and 72 strikeouts. Contreras also appeared in eight postseason games.
In 2004, Contreras was initially a member of the Yankees' rotation, but he struggled and was optioned to the minor leagues for a month.
Chicago White Sox, 2004-09
In July 2004, ahead of the trade deadline, the Yankees traded Contreras to the Chicago White Sox in exchange for pitcher Esteban Loaiza. Between New York and Chicago in 2004, he finished with 13–9 record, a 5.50 ERA and 150 strikeouts in 170.3 innings.
The 2005 season would be a big one for Contreras, as he finished the season at 15–7 with a 3.61 ERA in 32 starts for the White Sox, becoming a major piece of their rotation. He had a complete game against the Twins on Sept. 23, 2005.
Chicago made the postseason, and Contreras was the team's Game 1 starter in each round. He won two games in the 2005 postseason — and the White Sox went on to win the World Series, with Contreras posting a 3–1 record, a 3.09 ERA and 14 strikeouts over four postseason starts.
Contreras signed a three-year, $29 million extension with Chicago in 2006, and he started the year strong, with a 9–0 record, a 3.31 ERA and 71 strikeouts by July. He then broke a team record with his 16th consecutive win in the regular season, and Contreras was named an All-Star in the 2006 season but didn't pitch in the game itself.
Contreras' fortune with the White Sox largely ran out from there. He struggled the rest of the way in 2006, finishing with a 4.27 ERA in 30 starts, then went 10–17 with a 5.57 ERA in 32 games on a struggling Chicago squad in 2007, although he did have two shutouts.
In August 2008, Contreras tore his Achilles tendon while fielding a ground ball, and he didn't return until the 2009 season. But after going 0-5 in his return, he was moved to the bullpen, then the minor leagues.
Colorado Rockies, 2009
In August 2009, the White Sox traded Contreras to the Colorado Rockies with cash for minor league pitcher Brandon Hynick.
He would only spend a few months with Colorado before becoming a free agent.
Philadelphia Phillies, 2010-12
Contreras signed a one-year, $1.5 million deal with the Philadelphia Phillies in January 2010. With the deal, he became a full-time bullpen arm after previous years as a starter; in May 2010, he earned his first career save as he filled in for usual closer Brad Lidge.
After posting a 3.34 ERA in 67 appearances in 2010, Contreras signed a two-year, $5.5 million contract to remain in Philadelphia. He would put up a 3.86 ERA in 17 appearances in 2011 and a 5.27 ERA at age 40 in 2012, and the team then declined his club option after he spent most of the year injured.
Pittsburgh Pirates, 2013
Contreras' final stop of his MLB career came in 2013, as he signed a minor-league deal with the Pirates but was elevated to the MLB roster by May. In seven appearances for Pittsburgh, he had a 7.00 ERA, which resulted in him being released, re-signed, then released again.
While Contreras did go on to ink minor-league deals with the Red Sox in late 2013 and the Rangers in the spring of 2014, he did not make another MLB appearance. He went on to pitch in the Mexican League and Chinese Professional Baseball League.
Is Joseph Contreras related to Willson and William Contreras?
No, despite having the same last name, Joseph Contreras is not related to current MLB players William and Willson Contreras, who are brothers.
Where is Joseph Contreras from?
Joseph Contreras is from Alpharetta, Georgia and attended Blessed Trinity Catholic High School, where he helped lead his team to a state 4-A title in 2025.
While his father defected from Cuba before his MLB career in the United States, his mother is Brazilian, which is why Joseph is eligible to play for Brazil in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
Jose Contreras, the 11-year former All-Star MLB pitcher and father of prospect Joseph Contreras, is from Las Martinas, Pinar del Río, Cuba.
In his early baseball career, Jose Contreras played for Cuba's national team and in the Cuban National Series, but he defected from Cuba in October 2002, which led to his MLB career.
Ex-Juventus and Napoli director Giuntoli seen at Tottenham Stadium as Tudor’s crisis continues
Former Juventus and Napoli director Cristiano Giuntoli was seen at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Thursday during Spurs’ 3-1 loss to Crystal Palace.
Several Italian sources, including Tuttosport, report that ex-Napoli and Juventus director Giuntoli was in London on Thursday, where he watched Tottenham’s 3-1 defeat against Crystal Palace in the Premier League at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Giuntoli’s ties with Tudor
Giuntoli was sacked by Juventus at the end of the 2024-25 season and replaced by Damien Comolli.
In his second season at Juventus, Giuntoli had replaced Massimiliano Allegri with Thiago Motta, but then sacked the latter in March 2025, hiring Igor Tudor.
The Croatian tactician is now in charge of Tottenham, but the start of his tenure in North London has been terrible, as Spurs have suffered three defeats in his first three games.
Juventus Football director Cristiano Giuntoli (Photo by MARCO BERTORELLO / AFP) (Photo by MARCO BERTORELLO/AFP via Getty Images)
Tudor risks being sacked already
According to reports in England, Tudor already risks being sacked, less than a month after his appointment, which was confirmed on February 14.
Tottenham are now fighting to avoid relegation from the Premier League, with only a one-point lead over 18th-placed West Ham.
Eddie Howe's team news update: Woltemade, Livramento and Miley latest
The Magpies take on Pep Guardiola's side for a fifth time this season and head into the cup tie in positive fashion following a dramatic 2-1 win against Manchester United on Wednesday night despite playing the duration of the second half with ten men after Jacob Ramsey's controversial red card.
Howe provided a positive update on Woltemade after the Germany international missed the midweek win against Man United due to illness but admitted Tino Livramento and Lewis Miley remain sidelined for this weekend's cup tie.
Here are some of the boss' main talking points from Friday morning's pre-match media briefing at the Newcastle United Media Centre...
On team-news:
"Nick [Woltemade] should be okay, had an illness and lost a bit of weight. He trained yesterday individually and felt okay so that's a positive. Lewis [Miley] will not make the next couple of games.
“Tino [Livramento] is getting there, let’s wait and see. He hasn’t trained with us yet but he has done a lot of work. There's no question on how his fitness is. He has been running for a long time.
"He has a lot of work behind him, but it is just that training time with us."
On facing Manchester City:
“The games against Manchester City have all been close. We've have had chances against them. I don't think we've been as clinical as we need to be to win those games and, of course defensively, we need to be watertight.
"They're always going to test you. They are a difficult team to pin down in every moment. It will be a proper FA Cup tie where it's one of those end-to-end games. That will suit us and we will need to get the crowd involved."
On William Osula, who scored a late winner in Wednesday's Premier League victory against Manchester United:
“Will is something that always works on his game. He's got a lot of areas to focus on and continue his development.
He's worked incredibly hard since he's joined us and Graeme Jones has done a lot of individual work with him. He has done really well since his injury because it was a frustrating one, a long time out and static where he couldn't do too much with his ankle.
"He is confident again in his ankle and physically getting better."
On home atmosphere:
"The crowd react to us. It is our duty to set the tone and I felt we did that against Manchester United, with a bright start, energetic and positive in our outlook trying to score and attack in the right way.
"The crowd then backed us to the very end and helped us get us over the line to win that game. We need a ferocious St. James’ Park but that's going to come from our body language and start to the game."
Three of four VAR checks at Pittodrie went against Celtic
Benjamin Nygren’s winner at Pittodrie on Wednesday night has hurt an incredible amount of individuals who are desperately trying to convince themselves and others that it shouldn’t have stood…
Benjamin Nygren scores. Aberdeen v Celtic, Scottish Premiership. Wednesday 4th March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou
So much so that they have been experiencing severe full on hallucinations, all self-inflicted after spending hours rewatching the moment in a bid to convince themselves otherwise.
Celtic’s winner upsetting all the right people
The overwhelming majority of those individuals are of course supporters of our Glasgow rivals, The Rangers who have been blowing a gasket since 10pm on Wednesday night mainly due to our win bumping their club down into third place. A few of their cousins on the east coast have been joining in on the midweek paranoia as Celtic close in on leaders Hearts while leapfrogging the Rangers who drop to third.
VAR check – Scottish Premiership. Wednesday 4th March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou
Motherwell play their own game in hand tomorrow away to Dundee and if the Fir Park side collect the three points they will move to within a point of the latest Ibrox club.
Supporters of the Rangers, some well known and those more lesser known have been flooding the airwaves, the screens and social media platforms claiming the ‘dark arts’ are at work once again.
The VAR decision on Celtic’s winning goal was factual
Admittedly, I instantly feared Benji’s goal was on the wrong side of the laws, but like those who implement and know the rules of the game, I knew upon a closer examination, that is was clearly a legitimate goal. Fair play to the linesman at Pittodrie who called it properly in real time and was ultimately backed up by the VAR team.
The lines were drawn, it proved inconclusively that Benji’s timing was impeccable, and his goal was legitimate, no one can legitimately claim otherwise.
Apart from a percentage of Aberdeen and Hearts supporters, and the overall majority of the blue half of Glasgow, who are ironically the most vocal in their fury at Benji’s goal.
Referee Nick Walsh. Aberdeen v Celtic, Scottish Premiership. Wednesday 4th March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou
The facts haven’t stopped them from crying foul play, but of course just like their protestations after dropping points to Livingston and Celtic, or any other game they’ve failed to win for that matter, it’s nothing more than a convenient smokescreen to mask their own failings.
The pressure is clearly mounting
The pressure is clearly mounting on third place contenders in the title race and there’s going to be plenty more of that in the coming nine matches Hearts, Celtic and the Rangers have to play, with Motherwell having ten games in the Scottish Premiership still to play
Celtic won fair and square at Aberdeen. We might not be performing well, but we are showing the right spirit and determination required for a title battle.
The four key controversial incidents in the game were as follows…
1. The stamp on Kieran Tierney – red card issued against Dundee Utd player at weekend. Willie Collum recently discussed these type of stamps with studs showing on his VAR Review show and clearly stated that this should be a red card. Didn’t happen at Pittodrie.
2. Aberdeen penalty – Contact from Scales was minimal to say the least. The impact was insufficient to award the spot kick.
3. Celtic plenty claim denied after the quickest of checks – Gas-lighting from Sky Sports doesn’t take away from the outstretched arm at contact. Should have been a Celtic penalty, as Martin O’Neill pointed out.
Image from Sky Sports
4.Nygren’s goal was given by on-field officials and as is the case in all goals was checked by VAR. This check took longer than the others, and after drawing the lines VAR awarded the goal. This was a FACTUAL decision.
Benjamin Nygren scores the winner. Aberdeen v Celtic, Scottish Premiership. Wednesday 4th March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou
Nygren’s winner was brilliantly worked
Benji’s goal was a brilliantly worked effort, and more importantly it was a legitimate one. No amount of false images will alter that outcome. Those claiming otherwise have just got to face reality and deal with it. Unsurprisingly they all have had zero to say about the other three controversies in the match against Aberdeen where their interim boss Peter Leven has openly called on his players to dive at every opportunity in his cheats charter.
Best of luck to Neil Lennon in Dunfermline’s Scottish Cup quarter final tomorrow night.
Just an Ordinary Bhoy
READ THIS…Aberdeen 1-2 Celtic – Time for Sandman’s Definitive Ratings
Celtic in the Thirties by Matt Corr. Click on image to order
Michigan State basketball guard Jeremy Fears Jr. had a pretty good night in the Spartans' 91-87 win over Rutgers on Thursday, March 5.
Fears tied for a team high with 21 points and delivered eight assists – leaving him 20 short of passing Mateen Cleaves for MSU's single-season record – in a win that locked up a triple-bye in next week's Big Ten Tournament in Chicago.
It wasn't all flowers and tourney plans, however, as one sequence Thursday delivered a lesson to Tom Izzo, Fears' Hall of Fame coach in his 31st season.
It began with Fears getting whistled twice with 10:56 to play – called for what appeared to be an inadvertent trip of Rutgers guard Lino Mark, then picking up a technical foul (which was his fourth foul overall) for jumping and pointing to the video scoreboard during a replay.
Izzo argued with referees, but to no avail.
After being called for the reach in, Jeremy Fears Jr. is issued a technical foul for pointing up at the video board of the replay. pic.twitter.com/Zow2BaD20m
"A player or substitute committing an unsportsmanlike act including, but not limited to, the following ... "
It gets a bit wonky, here, since there's no actual wording referencing video boards or screens. But there are at least a couple subsets that arguably covered the situation with Fears. Among them:
"a. Disrespectfully addressing an official or gesturing in such a manner as to indicate resentment."
Or ... "c. Inciting undesirable crowd reaction."
There's also Article 2 of the same section which addresses "Bench personnel" – which wouldn't seem to apply to a player on the court, such as Fears, "committing an unsportsmanlike act including, but not limited to, the following:
"a. Disrespectfully addressing an official.
"b. Attempting to influence an official’s decision.
"e. Objecting to an official’s decision by rising from the bench or using gestures.
"f. Inciting undesirable crowd reactions."
Regardless of the specific line item that nicked Fears, Rutgers' Tariq Francis went to the line for a free throw that made it a 14-point game at the time.
Later, Izzo blamed himself for not knowing the rule, nor passing that along to Fears.
Likewise, Fears noted his lesson: “I was trying to signal to my bench that I didn’t really foul him. He was driving full speed, and he fell. He lost his balance and tripped,” Fears said. “But I didn’t know that you couldn’t [point to the replay board]. So that was new. But also at the same time, now I know, and don’t let it happen again.”
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As the new league year and the start of free agency approach, the New York Giants have agreed to a one-year deal with wide receiver and return specialist Gunner Olszewski.
This move addresses a key need in the special teams return game ahead of free agency.
Before becoming a free agent next week, wide receiver Gunner Olszewski reached agreement today on a one-year deal to return to the New York Giants, per source. pic.twitter.com/s8qS4H7r3v
While Olszewski offers limited production as a receiver, he set a career high with 145 receiving yards in 2025.
The 29-year-old Olszewski appeared in 10 games for the Giants in 2023 and in all 16 games in 2025.
He also scored a receiving touchdown last season and contributed to one of the most memorable plays of 2025 by throwing a touchdown pass to Jameis Winston during the Week 12 loss to the Detroit Lions.
JAMEIS WINSTON RECEIVING TD FROM GUNNER OLSZEWSKI.
Olszewski will rejoin the Giants' special teams units under new special teams coordinator Chris Horton. Ideally, the wide receiver corps will stay healthy in 2026, minimizing the need to rely on Olszewski in the passing game. That said, after attempting two passes in 2025, he could see an expanded role in trick plays within Matt Nagy's offense.
PROVIDENCE — The wins came easy in the regular season. It was a different story in the playoffs.
And that’s why the Lincoln School girls basketball team is the Division II champion.
The Lynx went largely unchallenged this winter, but needed a fourth-quarter comeback to beat Smithfield in the semifinals. In Thursday’s Division II championship game against Tiverton, they needed another second-half comeback, getting the game-winning bucket from Alivia Harris in the 50-47 victory that gave Lincoln School its second straight championship.
“I just love this team so much,” senior Sarah Berube said. “We only got additions this year, we didn’t lose anyone and it feels amazing. I felt every emotion in this game.”
“The mindset was the same,” Harris said. “Focus on our team, not the other team, and just push through any adversity we see.”
There was little adversity for Lincoln School this winter.
After winning last season’s Division III title, the Lynx volunteered to move up to play in D-II and rolled night in and night out. A championship seemed inevitable.
But in the semifinals, Lincoln School found themselves in a precarious position — trailing to Smithfield, a team it defeated easily during the regular season. The Lynx gathered themselves, came back, won the game and with the win, got an education that only made them better.
Facing Tiverton, which it beat by 22 in the regular season, Lincoln School could only watch as the Tigers closed the second quarter on a 14-2 run over the final 4:51, taking a 20-11 lead into halftime. Tiverton was not intimidated and was ready for anything the Lynx threw at them. And when Cami Oliveira buried a 3-pointer 46 seconds into the third quarter, the Tigers looked ready to run away with the game.
Lincoln School didn’t panic. It just went back to what it does best. The defense played tougher and, in turn, created better offensive opportunities and took care of the basketball. The Lynx outscored Tiverton, 14-4, to tie the game at 27 with 1:11 left, but went into the fourth quarter confident even after Sara Poland’s 3-pointer gave the Tigers a 3-point edge.
“I told the girls this was our game to win,” Berube said. “They’re coming in as underdogs and we played our game.
“That’s what helped us … we stayed focused and didn’t let the scoreboard affect us.”
The teams took turns hitting clutch shots the entire fourth quarter.
With four minutes left, Tiverton took a 42-41 lead on a 3-pointer from Murray and then added to it on a layup from Jah’niece Branch, who was outstanding all night up against Lincoln School All-Stater Reign Whiteing.
Berube punched back, tying the game with a 3-pointer with 3:08 left. Tiverton grabbed a one-point lead on a free throw by Poland with 2:30 left, only to have Whiteing score on the next possession. The Tigers grabbed the lead back with 1:10 remaining on a Murray layup.
Lincoln School has two elite scorers in Berube and Whiteing and a budding superstar in freshman Aubrey Watkins, but in the biggest moment, who it was didn’t matter as much as where it was.
The teams swapped turnovers and Cindy Blodgett put together a play. It wasn’t designed for one player — it was designed for whoever was open. That was Harris, perhaps the best defensive player in Division II who took a massive leap in her play from her freshman year to her sophomore season.
Harris didn’t hesitate. She took the 15-foot jumper just like the thousands she had put up refining her game in the offseason. It was good the second it left her hand.
“I was just there and open,” Harris said. “I realized I was open — I was, like, ‘Take this shot.’
“I trust in myself and knew my teammates trusted me.”
“I had chills when she hit that,” Berube said. “I am so proud of her — she has grown so much this year. Watching her her freshman year, she was phenomenal, but this year she came in with a whole new skill set and it’s been so much fun to watch her grow.”
Tiverton advanced the ball upcourt and called a timeout. With 10 seconds left, they ran a play toward Murray, but she didn’t reestablish position coming from out-of-bounds. Harris was eventually fouled and made two free throws with less than five seconds left.
The Tigers got a terrific three-quarter court pass from Brooke Sowa, but Poland’s desperation three at the end missed and the Lynx celebrated on the court at The AMP.
“It feels amazing. It kind of brought me back to last year and we did it again,” Harris said. “This team is the team and I love this team.”
Branch was active in gathering her teammates and consoling them after the final buzzer sounded. The senior was exceptional in the game, scoring 16 points to go with 16 rebounds. Tiverton hadn’t been in a title game since 2018 and losing one didn’t take away from the quality of its season.
“I’m proud of every single one of my teammates,” Branch said. “They had their heads down and I just wanted to cheer them up because I know this stings.
“I’m proud of us. I’m proud of how we grew and I can’t wait to watch them next year to see if they come back here.”
Lincoln School has more basketball to play in the RIIL State Tournament, but wasn’t ready to start thinking about that. There was a championship to celebrate and, for Berube, a four-year starter who helped create the program, it was one she will never forget.
“These four years were perfect,” Berube said. “This year, there were struggles, but to end it like this, I wouldn’t have wanted to change anything.”
Lancashire have become the latest county to cancel their pre-season tours amid the escalating conflict in the Gulf.
Both their men's and women's squads had been due to fly to the United Arab Emirates later this month, with the latter then moving on to Mumbai in India.
Instead the men will be heading head to the south of Spain and the women going to South Africa instead.
"Given the ongoing political situation in the Middle East, we have made the decision to rearrange our pre-season training plans, with the safety and security of both playing squads and staff being our number one priority," said Lancashire director of cricket performance Mark Chilton.
They are the fifth club to cancel pre-season plans following Durham, Yorkshire, Glamorgan and Worcestershire.
Yorkshire and Durham had been due to travel to the United Arab Emirates, while Glamorgan and Worcestershire had planned a trips to Oman.
On Saturday the US and Israel began strikes on Iran, which has responded by launching attacks on US-allied states in the region.
Durham's men's squad had been set to travel to Abu Dhabi next Monday with their women's side leaving two weeks later on 23 March.
Yorkshire had been scheduled to leave on Saturday and are now heading to Spain for a training camp instead.
"The safety and wellbeing of our players and staff is always our absolute priority," said Durham director of cricket Marcus North.
"We have been monitoring the situation closely alongside the relevant authorities and, after careful consideration, we believe this is the right decision."
Durham will now look to make alternative plans "to ensure the squad is fully ready for the start of the season."
The opening round of the 2026 County Championship season begins on 3 April.
"We will make a further announcement in due course on our scheduled women's tour. We will continue to assess all information available to us and make decisions in the best interests of everyone involved," North added.
Glamorgan were due to play matches against Worcestershire and host country Oman as part of their warm-weather preparations for the county season.
"Above all else, our thoughts are with those affected in the region at this time," said Glamorgan chief executive Dan Cherry.
"We have been monitoring the situation very closely and the decision has been made after careful consideration and dialogue.
"The safety and wellbeing of our players and staff is our utmost priority at all times.
"We are currently working hard to identify alternatives, both abroad and in the UK, to ensure we are fully prepared for the 2026 season and details of renewed plans will follow as soon as they are confirmed."
Worcestershire say ensuring the "safety and wellbeing" of players and staff was "paramount".
They added: "Alternative plans are now in place, with the club set to undertake an intensive pre-season training programme in the UK ahead of the new season."
PROVIDENCE – Bam Adams dribbled behind his back, asked his own student section for quiet while at the foul line and flashed a wide grin when it was all over.
The clean two-hand slam on a lob from Maleaq Roderick, the ice-cold elbow jumper that served as the backbreaker, the joy he showed through all 32 minutes Thursday night – Amica Mutual Pavilion was the sophomore forward's personal playground.
Mt. Hope leaned on its new star and another strong effort in the paint from Jack Thompson. This visit to the Division II boys basketball final ended the same way a trip to the Division III championship game closed last season on this same floor.
The Huskies were on top again after a 67-56 triumph, one that denied Burrillville a finishing touch to what was a Cinderella run through the bottom half of the bracket. Mt. Hope proved one game too far for the Broncos to upset their way into the 16-team state field and claim a first title since their Class C triumph in 1988-89.
“Any game I go into I just try to have as much fun as I can – which I usually do,” Adams said. “Being able to talk to my crowd and talk to the other crowd – maybe not as much – is amazing.”
Burrillville was within two possessions after an Alton Kelley drive to the rim when Adams popped up with what proved to be the game’s deciding moment. He buried a mid-range shot from in front of his own bench that made it a 60-53 game with 1:44 to play, and the mood in the building changed suddenly. The Huskies had taken everything the Broncos could offer, and there was no chance to swing again.
“We have so much chemistry together,” Thompson said. “Everything just flows together. It’s almost like we know what to do before it even happens.”
Adams went behind his back at midcourt to break Burrillville’s press on the ensuing possession, and Thompson wound up with an easy finish at the rim on a pass from Ben Peters. The Broncos missed a 3-pointer at the other end, Adams was fouled with 51.6 seconds left and the Huskies student section broke into ‘MVP’ chants while he stepped to the line. Adams politely waved for quiet, buried both free throws to make it a double-digit advantage and then started the celebration all by himself.
“Having that ability to flush people out is also good for me,” Adams said. “Being able to knock shots down when I need to is great.”
Mt. Hope built a 43-28 lead late in the third quarter thanks to an 11-0 run, and Burrillville (13-11) finally looked out of magic after road upsets of Chariho, East Greenwich and St. Raphael earlier in the tournament. Peters sparked the burst with a 3-pointer and Thompson finished it with a spinning layup inside, one of his eight field goals in a 19-point effort.
“We knew they were a fast-paced team,” Adams said. “We just had to slow them down. That was our goal today, and that’s pretty much what we did.”
The Broncos had a couple more pushes left into the fourth, closing the gap to 54-48 when Dylan Kafalas buried the second of his back-to-back 3-pointers. Thompson answered with a left-handed layup inside and Will Francis added a putback to stretch it back to a 10-point game. The Huskies (21-1) had just 2:44 to go while sealing a 20th straight league victory.
“It felt a little bit better not to have it come down to a buzzer-beater at the last second,” Thompson said.
Mt. Hope needed a pair of late Jacob Tamke free throws to survive against Times2, 73-72, at this same venue last year. The Huskies made life a little easier on themselves in this return trip and added a fourth championship banner since 2018-19. Now their eyes turn to the 16-team state field and a date with Mount Pleasant in the opening round.
“We have so many fans who came out and always come out,” Adams said. “We can make so much noise.”
Burrillville would have jumped all the way to the No. 12 seed in the state field with a victory while pushing East Providence, Cranston West, Smithfield and Shea all down one spot and knocking the Avengers out of the field. Now the Raiders will survive as the No. 15 seed after the eventual Division III champion checks in at No. 16 and leaves East Greenwich on the outside. Exeter-West Greenwich and Ponaganset will decide that last berth in a 1:30 p.m. tip here Saturday.
The Open Thread/Daily Merengue is a place where you can discuss anything and everything related to football. Feel free to discuss the topics presented here, or start your very own discussions! The Open thread will be posted every day by one of the mods you’d totally do a movie marathon night with: Valyrian Steel, Felipejack, Kung_Fu_Zizou (AKA KFZ), Juninho, Ezek and, of course… yours truly.
Well I Mean, I Kinda Feel The Sentiment
🚨 NEW: Real Madrid believe it's practically IMPOSSIBLE to beat Manchester City if both Jude Bellingham & Kylian Mbappé are out.
🚨 JUST IN: Alvaro Arbeloa held 2 emergency meetings with the players after the loss to Getafe: one with the captains, and one with the rest of the squad and the staff.
The Pittsburgh Steelers officially released tight end Jonnu Smith on Thursday, saving a good amount of cap space ahead of the start of free agency next week.
Releasing Smith opened up $7 million for Pittsburgh, bringing the Steelers' 2026 cap space to $50,016,173, which would be ranked the seventh-most in the league, according to Spotrac.
Traded to the Steelers in a deal that included Ramsey being sent to Pittsburgh and Minkah Fitzpatrick being sent to the Miami Dolphins, Smith failed to make an impact in his debut season in the Black and Gold — recording just 222 receiving yards and three total touchdowns.
With Smith now set to find a new team in free agency, the Steelers still boast one of the league's top tight end duos in Darnell Washington and Pat Freiermuth, who should see plenty of opportunity in 2026.
For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any offseason moves, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.
Real Madrid visit Celta Vigo in what’s a must-win game for Los Blancos. Barcelona have a four-point lead in the table and Arbeloa’s men need to find their groove and consistency if they want to compete for the 2025-26 Liga title until the very end of the season. Earning the three points at Balaidos will not be easy, though.
PREDICTED LINEUPS
Real Madrid predicted XI: Courtois; Trent, Asencio, Rüdiger, Mendy; Tchouaméni, Camavinga, Valverde, Brahim; Vinicius and Gonzalo.
Celta Vigo predicted XI: Radu; Javi Rodríguez, Starfelt, Marcos Alonso; Javi Rueda, Miguel Román, Moriba, Sergio Carreira; Fer López, Borja Iglesias and Swedberg.
HOW TO WATCH, STREAM LA LIGA
Date: 03/06/2026
Time: 21:00 CET, 03:00pm EST.
Venue: Balaidos, Vigo, Spain.
Available TV: DAZN La Liga (Spain), ESPN Deportes (USA).
Available Streaming: ESPN+ (USA)
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NEW DELHI: India pulled off a thrilling seven-run victory over England in the semi-final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, booking their spot in the final for the second consecutive edition.
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It was a run-fest in Mumbai, with both teams combining for a total of 499 runs, the second-highest aggregate in Men’s T20Is after South Africa and West Indies posted 517 runs at Centurion in 2023. Remarkably, three of the top four highest T20I match aggregates involve India, including a 496-run thriller against New Zealand in Thiruvananthapuram earlier this year.
Highest match aggregates in Men’s T20Is
517 - SA vs WI, Centurion, 2023
499 - IND vs ENG, Mumbai WS, 2026
496 - IND vs NZ, Thiruvananthapuram, 2026
489 - IND vs WI, Lauderhill, 2016
488 - NZ vs AUS, Auckland, 2018
488 - Bulgaria v Serbia, Sofia, 2022
Asked to bat first, India posted a massive 253/7, with Sanju Samson leading the charge with 89 off 42 balls, including eight fours and seven sixes. Support came from Shivam Dube (43 off 25) and Ishan Kishan (39 off 18). Late blitzes from Tilak Varma (21 off 7) and Hardik Pandya (27 off 12) propelled India to the highest total in a T20 World Cup knockout match.
England fought back fiercely. Jacob Bethell produced a stunning maiden T20I century, scoring 105, becoming the first player to score his first-class, List A, and T20 centuries in international cricket. He was well supported by Will Jacks (77-run partnership with Bethell), but England fell short at 246/7, just seven runs shy of the target.
The match smashed multiple T20 World Cup records: 34 sixes and a total of 73 boundaries (including 39 fours), both the highest ever in a T20 World Cup match.
Most sixes in a T20 World Cup match
34 - IND vs ENG, Mumbai WS, 2026 SF
31 - WI vs ZIM, Mumbai WS, 2026
30 - NED vs IRE, Sylhet, 2014
28 - IND vs ZIM, Chennai, 2026
25 - ENG vs ITA, Kolkata, 2026
England’s campaign was powered by a record 226 runs from the No.6 or lower position across the edition, led by Will Jacks (SR: 176.56).
Most runs from No.6 or lower in a T20 WC edition
226 - Will Jacks in 2026 (SR: 176.56)
218 - Misbah-ul-Haq in 2007 (SR: 139.74)
175 - Cameron White in 2010 (SR: 149.57)
171 - Michael Hussey in 2010 (SR: 172.72)
167 - Sam Curran in 2026 (SR: 120.14)
Other historic milestones included three of the top five highest individual scores in T20 World Cup knockouts in this tournament: Bethell’s 105, Finn Allen’s 100, and Samson’s 89.
Highest individual scores in T20 World Cup knockouts
105 - Jacob Bethell vs IND, Mumbai WS, 2026
100* - Finn Allen vs SA, Kolkata, 2026 SF
96* - Tillakaratne Dilshan vs WI, The Oval, 2009 SF
89* - Virat Kohli vs WI, Mumbai WS, 2016 SF
89 - Sanju Samson vs ENG, Mumbai WS, 2026
Team India now joins Pakistan (2007 & 2009) and Sri Lanka (2012 & 2014) as teams playing consecutive T20 World Cup finals, while making it to their fourth T20 WC final overall, the most by any team.
India will now face New Zealand in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday, aiming to defend their title and cap off a record-breaking campaign.
One of Team Brazil's biggest storylines ahead of this World Baseball Classic may not be their first appearance in the tournament since 2013. It's the fact that one of their players has green, yellow, and blue hair.
Dante Bichette Jr., son of former MLB player Dante Bichette and the brother of current New York Mets shortstop Bo Bichette, has been seen sporting hair that looks straight out of a rock concert.
Bichette Jr. was drafted in the first round of the 2011 MLB draft by the New York Yankees. While he didn't have the neon flow then, he will be donning it during this tournament.
Here is the story behind Bichette Jr.'s hair, which features the same colors as Brazil's flag.
Fans will easily be able to spot Bichette Jr. at this year's World Baseball Classic. Here he is pictured with three other teammates from Brazil. Bichette Jr. is featured on the top left.
— World Baseball Classic (@WBCBaseball) March 3, 2026
This 2025 interview with Bichette Jr. features him discussing the 6-hour process of dying his hair, which required bleaching and dyeing it strand by strand.
Bichette Jr. originally dyed his hair green, yellow, and blue to match Brazil's flag. However, according to Bichette, the hot Brazilian sun drowned out the green, creating a more neon yellow set of locks (with a hint of blue, per Bichette Jr.)
While St. Patrick's Day shares the same date as the WBC Championship game (March 17), Bichette Jr. did not dye his hair to channel his inner leprechaun.
Bichette Jr. hasn't given a specific reason for the green color, but it does match the most prevalent color on Brazil's flag.
Last year, Bichette Jr. wanted to match Brazil's flag with a "green, yellow, blue, yellow, green" color scheme while representing the country in WBC qualifiers. However, eventually the sun bleached his hair completely yellow.
Luckily for Bichette Jr., Brazil will play their group games against the U.S., Italy, and Great Britain in Houston's Daikin Park. The home of the Astros is equipped with a retractable roof that is usually closed due to Houston's arid temperatures.
Bichette Jr.'s mother, Mariana, calls Brazil her home country. This means both of her sons are eligible to play for the green, yellow, and blue.
Both Bichette brothers were lined up to share the diamond together for Brazil. However, in January, Bo pulled out of the competition.
Bichette’s father, former Major Leaguer Dante Bichette, is an American, so Bichette Jr. also has eligibility to play for the United States, but decided to represent Brazil.
Bichette Jr. is the older brother of the current Mets' shortstop. Bichette Jr. is the older brother who was born in 1992, while Bo was born in 1998.
Bichette Jr. was a former first-round selection in the 2011 MLB draft by the New York Yankees.
Both brothers are the sons of former MLB player Dante Bichette. Their father played for five Major League Baseball teams over a 14-season career (1988–2001). Bichette Sr. was a four-time All-Star outfielder for the Colorado Rockies and also played for the California Angels, Milwaukee Brewers, Cincinnati Reds, and Boston Red Sox.
Patrice Neveu discusses dual nationals targeted by Togo
Patrice Neveu/@CAF
In an exclusive interview with “Foot Africa”, French coach Patrice Neveu, the new head coach of the Togo national team, addressed the issue of dual-nationality players who could strengthen the national squad as they look ahead to the qualifiers for AFCON 2027.
The former Guinea manager confirmed interest in several promising profiles.
“Yes, there are players who could join the project. But the most important thing is to present them with a clear direction and a solid structure first. The players have a very intense schedule with their clubs, sometimes playing every three days. So it’s crucial to show them that the national team is a serious, well-structured project,” he stated, before adding: “There’s Lilian Brassier, the Stade Rennais defender, and also Marvin Senaya, the right-back from AJ Auxerre,” he continued.
Drawing on his experience across the continent, Patrice Neveu will look to restore pride to a Togo side that has been struggling for momentum since their historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
It leaves Spurs 16th in the league and without a win since December, while their relegation rivals - West Ham and Nottingham Forest - picked up valuable points this week
Just in: Bayern playing a dangerous game with Michael Olise as Liverpool watch on
Liverpool’s interest in Michael Olise can’t be discounted amid Bayern Munich’s plan to offer the forward a new contract.
The Merseyside giants have the Frenchman in their sights, with the club keen to bolster both wings (which have largely underperformed this term).
Mo Salah, though no question a legendary figure at Anfield, appears to be nearing the end of the line at L4. The arrival of the former Crystal Palace man would certainly go some way to plugging the gap should the Egypt international depart in the summer.
Liverpool’s interest in Michael Olise remains
Bayern, of course, do have the benefit of time on their hands, with three years set to remain on Olise’s deal even after the 2025/26 campaign.
“Michael Olise is currently on a contract running until 2029, and Bayern Munich would love to have him sign a new contract until 2031. But this all takes time,” Christian Falk exclusively informed CF Bayern Insider.
“With three years left on Olise’s current terms, Bayern have time on their hands. But, of course, they also heard that Liverpool are interested and Manchester City is watching the player.
“But they also have the Konrad Laimer contract negotiations to think about, the Harry Kane negotiations… It’s a complicated situation. What if you sign one player until 2031 and then the others say, ‘Hey, I want a longer contract’?”
However, given Liverpool’s increasingly clear need on the right flank, it’s not a situation those at Säbener Straße will be keen to let play out.
* Michael Olise’s stats across all competitions for Bayern this term (Transfermarkt)
Of course, as far as Liverpool interest is concerned, that particular concern may be taken care of on its own should Arne Slot’s men fall outside of the Champions League spots.
Bayern are playing a dangerous game
From Liverpool’s perspective, assuming that they can secure elite European football for the 2026/27 season, there is an opportunity here.
“It’s a bit of a dangerous game; the longer you wait, the more it invites other clubs to pick up the phone and call the player,” Falk went on to add.
“Michael Olise isn’t, at the moment, one of the top earners (picking up around €15m [£13m]. Jamal Musiala and Harry Kane perhaps earn about €10m more.
“Bayern can always give the right winger more money, but the longer they wait, the more complicated the situation becomes. Bayern don’t want another ‘Upamecano case’. Nobody wants that!”
At £13m a year, that would put Olise joint-level with Cody Gakpo (allegedly Liverpool’s fourth-best paid player in the squad).
* Liverpool’s top earners compared to Michael Olise (Capology)
However, if Mo Salah were to depart in the summer, a significant chunk of the wage bill would be freed up, enabling the Reds to go big with a contract offer of their own.
Of course, Bayern would have to first agree to a transfer, and they’re hardly under any pressure to accept a bid with three years remaining on the 24-year-old’s deal.
Still, time is of the essence. Max Eberl and Co. need to hand Michael Olise a contract genuinely befitting of his current status at the club and in world football.
Adrian Newey, along with representatives from Honda, spoke to the media on Thursday in Australia about Aston Martin’s rough start to the 2026 season.
Even the press conference didn’t go smoothly, with technical issues throughout.
Aston Martin have found themselves in serious trouble heading into the 2026 F1 opener in Melbourne. There are even doubts about whether they’ll be able to take part in qualifying for Sunday’s Grand Prix.
On Thursday, team boss Adrian Newey addressed reporters at Albert Park and outlined a long list of problems currently facing engineers back at Silverstone.
Newey pointed directly at the Honda engine as the main issue, noting that vibrations from the power unit were so severe during pre-season tests that they caused wing mirrors to fall off the AMR26.
The team has even raised safety concerns after meetings with Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll suggested there could be deeper issues with the power unit.
This kind of situation is rare for a team of Aston Martin’s stature, and it hasn’t been helped by how poorly their early season communications have gone either.
Adrian Newey left frustrated as press conference suffers technical glitches
Nate Saunders from ESPN reported that the session was interrupted several times by microphone problems, which felt in line with the run of form the team is going through.
“The press conference was effectively Aston Martin making Honda admit their failures so far. I’ve not seen many press conferences like it.
“It just seemed to sum up more perfectly than anything else could just the situation that Aston Martin are in. You know, even the microphones they couldn’t get working.
“Whatever they’re trying to do at the moment goes wrong for them. And it’s a really startling thing for them to be in.”
And then he added a bit of positivity, pointing out how calm Alonso and Stroll remained despite all the problems.
Saunders said: “I was actually quite impressed that both drivers, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, were in pretty good spirits, given the situation and given the kind of doom and gloom kind of being conveyed from Aston Martin externally by a lot of team members.”
Don’t expect a quick fix to Aston Martin’s problems
Worries about the AMR26’s performance really started to grow after the final pre-season test wrapped up in February.
Across six days of running in Sakhir, Aston Martin didn’t manage a single full race simulation, held back by ongoing problems with their Honda power unit.
Honda have said they expect to find a solution before round two in China, but many F1 insiders are sceptical that will happen so quickly.
Ralf Schumacher has predicted it could take ‘several months’ for Honda’s engine department to even sort out the core issues, and probably even longer before the engine becomes truly competitive.
If there’s any positive for Aston Martin right now, it might be that they’ve already hit rock bottom. Things can only get better from here – or at least, that’s what they’ll be hoping.
The Los Angeles Lakers fell behind very early on Thursday to the Denver Nuggets, and despite making a couple of rallies, they ultimately fell short by a final score of 120-113. To add injury to insult, two of their starters got hurt during the game.
Early on, center Deandre Ayton had to leave and was later ruled out due to knee soreness, an ailment he had previously dealt with recently. Late in the game, LeBron James took a nasty spill right after making a layup and hurt his elbow. He exited the game and returned a little later, but he admitted afterward that it was still hurting him.
"It's pretty sore right now," James said. "Feeling like one of them funny bone situations, but super more intense."
There were times during the game when the Lakers were upset with the officiating. Luka Doncic was hit with his 15th technical foul at one point, which left him one technical foul away from an automatic one-game suspension. James implied that he felt Nikola Jokić should've been called for a foul when he fell and banged his elbow.
"It’s the same [expletive]. ‘Marginal.’ It’s the same [expletive]. It’s, it’s, it’s … whatever. That’s all they keep saying is, ‘marginal.’ I’m so [expletive] tired of that word."
James ended up with 16 points on 7-of-11 field-goal shooting, five rebounds, eight assists, three steals and one block. In the first quarter, he hit a turnaround jumper to surpass Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most made field goals in NBA history.
The Lakers won't have much time to rest. They will return home to host the Indiana Pacers on Friday, and they will then play a Sunday matinee game against the surging New York Knicks.
Steve Clarke has taken Scotland to their first World Cup finals since 1998 [Getty Images]
One hundred and seven days on and we're still pinching ourselves. It wasn't a dream. Scotland are going to the World Cup.
And 100 days from now, they will end their 28-year wait and kick a ball on the biggest stage of all once again against Haiti on Sunday, 14 June, 02:00 BST - live on the BBC.
As the clock counts down, things have become a little more real. But only a wee bit.
Scouting reports of stars from Brazil, Morocco and Haiti are being hastily fired around group chats, Steve Clarke has sorted his Scotland squad's base camp in Charlotte and the Tartan Army know they can don their sporrans in stadiums stateside.
But there are still a lot of questions facing the head coach. Here, BBC Scotland takes a look at some of them.
As has been the case of late, Scotland are suffering from something of a goalkeeper crisis.
Craig Gordon was heroic between the sticks back in November, despite conceding three goals in Athens and two against the Danes at Hampden.
However, the 43-year-old has been all-but ruled out of this month's friendlies against Japan and Ivory Coast with a shoulder injury.
The Hearts goalkeeper has missed the Scottish Premiership leaders' past two matches, having sat on the bench for the four proceeding games.
That's also where Angus Gunn has been spending his time recently. Although it is an improvement given he missed 10 Premier League matchday squads for Nottingham Forest either side of a knee injury in November and December.
Liam Kelly has kept two clean sheets in his two games for Rangers since Scotland qualified for the World Cup (both in the Scottish Cup), while Falkirk's Scott Bain remains the only goalkeeper Clarke has recently included in his squads to be playing regular football.
The 34-year-old told BBC Scotland earlier this week he is "really hopeful" of being involved in this month's camp, which could play a pivotal part in realising his dream of being at the tournament this summer.
Who could make a late run?
It will need to be a pretty decent run to catch the eye of the fiercely loyal Clarke, mind you.
For Euro 2024, Celtic winger James Forrest timed his upturn in form to perfection and made the plane to Germany, while Bristol City defender Ross McCrorie was the only uncapped player there.
Ryan Jack was something of an outsider, given his lack of game time at Rangers, but the midfielder had long been one of Clarke's trusted servants.
Current Bournemouth winger Ben Gannon-Doak, then uncapped, was named in the squad, but was forced out by an injury.
Other than that, many would have comfortably been able to name Clarke's squad. Nothing too much has changed since then, with the head coach seldom shaking up his squad.
He does still sometimes surprise us - and has previously said "there's always room for an outsider" - and this month's double-header could allow for a shock inclusion or two since there are a few regulars struggling with injury.
Former Scotland manager Gordon Strachan has called for Oli McBurnie to be involved. The 29-year-old Hull City striker, who last appeared for his country five years ago, has scored 13 goals in 21 Championship games this term.
Further back, Stephen O'Donnell has made a case for a recall with his fine form at high-flying Motherwell. And the 33-year-old isn't the only Steelman involved in the conversation among punters, with uncapped Stephen Welsh and one-time cap Paul McGinn also being touted.
All three have played a pivotal role in the Fir Park side's incredible defensive record - conceding just 18 goals in 28 games - this season. It's one of the best in Europe.
Another side making folk sit up across the continent are Heart of Midlothian, with Harry Milne one of the Premiership leaders' standout performers.
However, left-back is an area the Scots are rather blessed in, with Clarke having called on Sassuolo's Josh Doig recently to cover Andy Robertson, Kieran Tierney and Aaron Hickey.
What's going on with the preparations?
While the squad selection is very much in the head coach's hands, there are a few things outside his control causing a bit of a stir.
Most notably, the dispute between Foxborough town chiefs - where the Gillette Stadium, which is due to host Scotland's first two group games against Haiti and Morocco, is located - and those responsible for security funding over a reported shortfall.
However, Massachusetts governor Maura Healey insisted "the World Cup is going to happen".
"It is going to be in Massachusetts," she said. "It's going to be great to have people come from all over the world and see our awesome state."
Another state Scots will see is New Jersey. There's just a little uncertainty over the opposition.
Although it was not officially announced, it was understood Scotland's final pre-tournament friendly was to be against Peru.
However, it appears Spain will now play Peru, forcing the Scots to find another opponent for the fixture on 6 June.
Clarke expressed his desire to face a South American nation and Venezuela have been widely linked as the replacements.
The 50-year-old led them to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup - the first African side to reach that stage of the tournament - and to the final of this year's Africa Cup of Nation, which was held in Morocco.
The United States has dreams of gold in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. It won't be bringing home any prizes when it comes to winning fashion shows, however.
Team USA has generally used international competitions -- like the Olympics and World Cup -- as an opportunity to showcase its style. The WBC hasn't quite gotten that treatment, however. Nike outfitted USA's 2023 roster in a fairly drab offering. In 2026, the jersey manufacturers are doing the same -- much to the chagrin of baseball fans worldwide.
When Bryce Harper, Aaron Judge and Bobby Witt Jr. take to the diamond, they'll be awash in red, white and blue. That isn't necessarily a good thing this time around, though.
Here's what you need to know about USA's World Baseball Classic uniforms in 2026
USA World Baseball Classic uniforms
Three years after last sporting the red, white and blue, the United States is going to that well once more, donning an almost-identical entry this time around.
Nike's 2026 kits are lacking in any real vigor, with the home jerseys featuring a classic white shirt adorned with hints of navy blue along the collar and buttons. USA is emblazoned across the front of the jersey, with the 'S' marked by a stripe pattern that pays tribute to the United States flag.
If the jersey looks familiar, that's because it is. The strip is essentially unchanged from its 2023 predecessor. The away jersey sings a similar refrain, its navy blue backing and red-and-white side panel having been introduced during the 2023 WBC.
Could the Team USA hat bear more captivating fruit? No, it could not. The lid is also a retread of the Americans' 2023 look. For the second-straight year, Team USA's logo -- a 'U' and 'S' entangled in bold lettering atop a gray star -- will feature on its cap.
Lewandowski highlights the biggest quality of Barcelona summer signing: ‘He is the kind of player who…’
When Marcus Rashford arrived at Barcelona on loan from Manchester United, the move immediately became one of the biggest talking points surrounding the club.
The English forward joined the Catalan side after a difficult spell, which led to plenty of debate about what version of Rashford Barcelona would actually get.
Months later, one player who sees the forward every day in training is Robert Lewandowski.
Speaking to Sky Sports (h/t SPORT), the Barcelona striker gave a clear assessment of Rashford and the qualities he brings to the team.
According to Lewandowski, it did not take long for him to realise the level of ability Rashford possesses.
“After a few training sessions, no. He has enormous potential,” said the Barcelona veteran.
The Polish striker then described the wide range of attributes the England international offers on the pitch.
He said that Rashford’s profile is that of a modern attacker who can influence games in multiple ways.
“He has it all. He has speed, he has technique, he has a shot, he has a left foot, a right foot, dribbling.”
Rashford’s biggest strength
However, Lewandowski believes Rashford’s biggest strength is not just his physical ability but the mentality he shows when he feels trusted by his teammates and coaches.
“Marcus is the kind of player who, if you give him confidence and he sees that you believe in him, can give you 200% in return.”
Lewandowski has nothing but praise for Rashford. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Their relationship has also developed away from matches and training sessions.
The two attackers share moments together at the club’s facilities, which has helped create a friendly atmosphere between them inside the dressing room.
“He’s a very nice guy. We talk because we sit together in the locker room. We also play ping-pong,” he says.
Inside jokes
Naturally, the competitive nature of footballers appears even in their games of table tennis. Lewandowski joked about their matches, insisting he still holds the upper hand.
”He improved, but he couldn’t beat me in any game! He has to change opponents!”
The experienced striker also took the opportunity to address a topic that often appears in discussions about him, which is his age.
Despite continuing to perform at a high level, Lewandowski believes some criticism aimed at him has been unfair.
“‘He’s old and can’t run,’ they say. And I look at my stats and how I compare to different forwards, and I was among the players who pressed the most during games.”
For Lewandowski, statistics and performances tell a different story from the one sometimes pushed by critics.
“Sometimes what people say is funny because it doesn’t make sense. But for some people, it’s easier to find an excuse to write something about someone,” he concluded.
Real Madrid ready to break bank with €120m move for Chelsea star – report
According to a report from Fichajes, Real Madrid have shifted their attention toward Enzo Fernandez after realising that signing Vitinha from Paris Saint-Germain would be extremely difficult.
Notably, the Chelsea midfielder has long been admired within the Madrid hierarchy.
In fact, the club has monitored him closely since his early days at River Plate, when he first began attracting attention as one of South America’s most promising midfield talents.
Within Real Madrid, the Argentine is viewed as a player who could bring balance to a midfield already packed with energy and physical strength.
Madrid’s current group of midfielders offers athleticism and dynamism, but the club believes adding a player capable of dictating the tempo could take the team to another level.
Ready to go big
For that reason, the report claims that Real Madrid are considering a massive offer of around €120 million in an attempt to convince Chelsea to open negotiations next summer.
The idea behind the move would be to secure a playmaker capable of organising the game and enhancing the strengths of Madrid’s attacking stars.
Real Madrid are interested in Enzo Fernandez. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
A midfielder with Fernandez’s profile could potentially become a central figure in the club’s long-term project.
However, completing such a deal will be far from simple, as Chelsea have no plans to part ways with the Argentine international, who remains tied to the club through a long-term contract that runs until 2032.
Because of that agreement, any potential transfer would likely depend on the player himself expressing a strong desire to move.
Without pressure from the footballer, convincing the London club to sell could prove extremely complicated.
Despite the obstacles, Real Madrid are believed to be confident in the power of their sporting project and the global appeal of the club.
The chance to wear the Madrid shirt and compete regularly for the biggest trophies in Europe could play a role if negotiations eventually begin.
As such, the player’s representatives are said to be aware of the growing interest from Madrid, and speculation about possible informal contacts has already started circulating in international media.
Another clue may have emerged as to whom Manchester City will move for to solve the right-back issue.
There is no doubt that during the upcoming summer transfer window, Hugo Viana will look to fill any holes in the Manchester City squad. Manchester City’s squad only needs a few minor tweaks to complete its rebuild. A summer move for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson seems to be one such move that City will make. Graeme Bailey has reported for TeamTalk that Elliot Anderson’s potential move to the Etihad is considered a “done deal in football circles”. That seems to be one deal that Hugo Viana will attempt to tie up next summer. There is seemingly another move for a versatile full-back that could be on the cards by Manchester City in a bid to strengthen their full-back positions.
A Daily Mail report indicates that Tino Livramento is expected to complete a move to Manchester City in the summer.
Craig Hope provided a report for the Daily Mail that may be the biggest clue yet as to who Manchester City will look to sign at right-back this summer. As per Craig Hope’s reports it is reported that Tino Livramento has not engaged in talks with Newcastle United over a contract extension with the club. Furthermore, it is reported that after the 25/26 season is complete, Livramento will only have two years remaining on his current contract. Due to this, Hope believes that Newcastle will consider selling Livramento this summer. Lastly, it is reported by Craig Hope that after speaking to sources, it is believed that Livramento will sign for Manchester City this summer.
It would seem that City have two big moves lined up for this summer.
Manchester City are not a club that stands still in the transfer market with Hugo Viana at the helm. This has been proven in the past two transfer windows with Viana either steering the ship or working alongside Txiki Begiristain. The recent January transfer window is a prime example of this. City signed Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth and Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace. Both players have quickly become vital for Pep Guardiola’s side as Hugo Viana acted quickly and decisively in the January window. Based on recent reports, it seems that Viana has identified two transfer targets that will fill needs in this Manchester City squad.
Recent reports indicate that Manchester City seems set to move for Elliot Anderson and Tino Livramento this summer. Both players are England internationals and proven Premier League performers. The strengths of Elliot Anderson as a midfielder are well-known, as are the persistent injury concerns that surround Tino Livramento despite his quality as a player. If City are as committed to signing the pair as recent reports suggest, Manchester City and Hugo Viana will have done their due diligence ahead of two big-money moves. It now remains to be seen if recent reports, including Craig Hope’s for the Daily Mail are proven to be on the money.
It would seem that a major clue has emerged as to who Manchester City will target to slot in at right-back. That player seems to be Newcastle United’s versatile full-back Tino Livramento. If Craig Hope’s and Graeme Bailey’s reports on Elliot Anderson moving to the Etihad are correct, Manchester City could be about to get a lot stronger next summer.
Igor Tudor claimed to have more belief Tottenham would stay up despite a 3-1 home loss to Crystal Palace piling the pressure on the interim boss.
West Ham’s win at Fulham on Wednesday started a disastrous 24-hour period for the north London club with this fifth straight defeat for Spurs meaning they are only one point above the Premier League relegation zone with nine fixtures left.
Dominic Solanke’s 34th-minute opener looked to have turned the tide for Tottenham, but stand-in captain Micky van de Ven was inexplicably sent off four minutes later and they conceded three times during the remainder of the first half.
Plenty of Spurs fans headed for the exit doors at half-time and while Tudor’s depleted group showed some spirit in the second half, this latest defeat extended the club’s winless run to 11 matches, which is a new club record in the Premier League.
Tudor was hired last month to provide an upturn in results, but instead has become the first Tottenham manager in the Premier League era to lose his first three matches and had to face questions over his future after full-time.
Asked if he expected the Spurs hierarchy to let him carry on, Tudor responded: “I don’t think in that direction. I have my job to do and that’s all.
“Of course I understand the fans. It’s a normal thing that happens in football. They are disappointed. They wanted more. We are aware of that.
“We also wanted to give more. Unfortunately this is the moment that we pay everything. One red card change everything.
Micky van de Ven’s red card cost Tottenham (John Walton/PA) (PA Wire)
“I will tell you now maybe it will sound strange, but I believe more after this game than I believed before. I saw something.
“I need to choose the right guys because the boat is going in the direction that I want to go and needs to go and who is in the boat can stay. Otherwise they can bow down, or how do you say that, leave the boat.
“So, when the other players will come back and choosing the right (players), I’m sure we will have a good team and the victories will come back. It’s not easy to accept the moment where we are now but it is how it is.”
It was a different story for Crystal Palace and they are now 10 points above the bottom three after an Ismaila Sarr brace was sandwiched between a fine strike by Jorgen Strand Larsen.
Sarr could have walked away with a hat-trick had his 29th-minute effort not been ruled out for offside, which VAR images showed was due to his nose.
Oliver Glasner said: “We played a very good first half in total. Started very well, did well, scored a goal and we all felt we were 1-0 up. Then it is disallowed and I said to Ismaila your nose is too long!
“Then all of a sudden two minutes later one poor defending after a set-play and we are 1-0 down, but I really loved the reaction of the group.
“All of a sudden the crowd and stadium was loud, it looked like it gave them a little bit of belief and then immediately we are on the front foot again.
“We get the penalty, the red card and then score another two fantastic goals before half-time so really great.”
Liverpool coach confirms the Reds have the next Roberto Firmino
There's a new Roberto Firmino at Liverpool based on what the club's U21 head-coach has said.
Let's be honest, there will never be a no.9 like Bobby. He was one of a kind.
While the Brazilian was a talented goalscorer, what truly made him special at Anfield was his selflessness.
Rather than focusing purely on scoring himself, Firmino was often the glue that facilitated Mo Salah and Sadio Mane.
His intelligent movement and ability to drop deep created space for the duo to exploit.
It was the humility that he played with, and the flair that he had. All the while playing with that iconic toothy smile. Firmino was the best of us.
There's no surprise that since his departure Liverpool still haven't really been able to replace him.
What truly set Firmino apart and the element of his game that Liverpool are missing the most right now is his pressing.
Few players in modern football were as relentless as he was.
Firmino’s pressing wasn’t just about chasing opponents, it was about timing. He just had an awareness for anticipating when to make his move, when to cut those passing lanes, and force mistakes at exactly the right moment.
Firmino was the brilliant cog in Klopp's gegenpress machine, he became the engine that sparked attacks and created turnovers high up the pitch enabling the Reds to play their heavy metal football.
His absence has left a void in Liverpool’s ability to suffocate opponents and regain possession in the final third. Arne Slot's side are struggling in the pressing side of their game a lot right now.
However, not all hope is lost. There may be an exciting wonderkid who has that same pressing intensity and who could become the next Firmino.
Liverpool's U21 coach Rob Page spoke to Redmen TV about Lewis Koumas, and highlighted the Welsh wonderkid's pressing ability in particular, explaining how he actually had to instruct him to sometimes ease his pressing because of the intensity that he played with.
"He’s a great lad. I had a pre-season with him, and he’s great to work with. He’s got a great attitude. You want to pull the reins on him to stop him pressing, which is great, isn’t it? You’re trying to get players to encourage them to press high and aggressively, but it’s quite the opposite with him" Page said.
"I’ve seen a couple of his goals. He’s always off the last man, playing off the shoulder. He likes that physicality. Sometimes it’s a tackle as he’s finishing, so he’s great one-on-one. It’s great to see him in that form. Great support staff at Hull.
"I know Dean Holden quite well, who’s the assistant there, so he’ll give him all the support he needs. Great for our football club to have young players going out and playing really well and helping us develop them.
"And great for Welsh football, obviously, because we’ve got the play-offs coming up and two big games in March and Craig (Bellamy) will no doubt want all his young players playing well at a decent level, and he falls into that category.”
Koumas has been in great form at Hull, and he's still young. We've seen glimpses of his talent in the first-team and perhaps when he returns pre-season this summer could offer him the opportunity to establish himself as a third option behind Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak.
Benjamin Nygren is surely going to be Celtic’s Player of the Year
Where would Celtic be without Benji?
That man Benjamin Nygren yet again proved to be our saviour, with his goal at Pittodrie saving us from falling further behind in the title race. Instead we leapfrogged the Rangers to move into second place and in doing so saw our odds at the bookies tighten.
That effort was the Swede’s 19 goal of the season, and those efforts alongside his seven assists make the former Nordsjaelland man our most valuable asset, it’s not even up for debate.
Nygren’s 26 goal contribution is impressive
26 goal contributions in 49 games is a mighty impressive achievement, especially for a man not renowned as an out and out goalscorer, and one who isn’t what you would call a ‘fans favourite’ Benji also sits second in the league goalscoring charts with only the impressive Tawanda Maswanhise of Motherwell scoring more.
Benjamin Nygren at Ibrox. theRangers 2 Celtic 2. Sunday 1st March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou
Indeed Benji’s minutes per goal ratio is 1.23 to the Zimbabweans 1.26, granted the Swede has played four more games, it’s still an impressive stat.
Despite all this evidence of his prowess, there is still reservations from some Celtic supporters, towards Benji, but the stats don’t lie, and the £2 million summer signing is certainly our most effective players, with his ability to pop up with a vital goal proving ever so important in a campaign we have been totally out of sorts.
Contribution reminiscent of Ronne Glavin’s
His goalscoring contribution hasn’t been seen since perhaps Ronnie Glavin in the 1970s. The 24 year old Sweden international has scored in the majority of our games this campaign. Strikes such as the decisive goals in tight away games such as the narrow 1-0 win over Falkirk, the equaliser in the dramatic comeback at Rugby Park, as well as Wednesday night’s winner at Pittodrie, goals that have been instrumental in keeping us in the title race.
Benji has also made his mark in Europe registering four strikes in the Europa league, so he is without doubt our most valuable asset at this moment in time.
22.02.2026 Celtic v Hibernian, Scottish Premiership. Benjamin Nygren’s goal celebration Photo Kenny Ramsay IMAGO
We all owe the Swede a great deal of gratitude for his service this tough campaign, as if it wasn’t for his goal contributions, one can only wonder the predicament we would currently be experiencing.
Nygren has yet to score against the Rangers, he’ll be looking to add that achievement to his resume this weekend.
Ander Limpar praises Nygren
Yesterday on The Celtic Star we reported on what former Sweden international midfielder Anders Limpar has been saying about Benjamin Nygren. Here’s what Limpar had to say about Celtic’s top goalscorer.
Obviously, Nygren moved from FC Nordsjaelland to Celtic and he has done so well scoring a lot of goals,” Limpar said. “I have seen him play many times for Sweden as well and he is fantastic.
“He is not as good as Isak or Gyokeres to play up front, and he is not as good as Forsberg, Elanga or Kulusewski to be in the starting eleven, but he is a hell of a player. When he plays, he is always creating so many chances and when he plays for Sweden he plays up front.
Benjamin Nygren celebrates. Aberdeen v Celtic, Scottish Premiership. Wednesday 4th March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou
‘He is a hell of a prospect’
“Playing for Celtic he is playing a different position, but he is so usable in many positions,”the former Sweden international noted. “He is good at set pieces and I don’t even think we have seen the best from him yet. He is a hell of a prospect but it is a shame for him he is playing in a golden generation for the Swedish national team, because he is not among the best eleven, but on the other hand with his performances for Celtic it will be tough to keep him out.”
“He can play so many different positions and is very usable.”
Benjamin Nygren scores the winner. Aberdeen v Celtic, Scottish Premiership. Wednesday 4th March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou
Just an Ordinary Bhoy
READ THIS…Aberdeen 1-2 Celtic – Time for Sandman’s Definitive Ratings
Celtic in the Thirties by Matt Corr. Click on image to order
Today’s Papers – Milan must save Serie A, Juventus call Vicario
La Gazzetta dello Sport
Scudetto derby, the super challenge in midfield
Inter want Barellik back
Chivu needs the real Nicolò to stop Rabiot and kill off the league
More and more Allegri
Max, the project continues: renewal and pay rise ready
Napoli for the Champions, Toro for the comeback
Corriere dello Sport
Max saves it?
Decisive derby
The league asks Milan to stop runaway Inter
Chivu can close it: Allegri is the last obstacle
Leao and Pulisic dream of the coup to go to -7. Bartesaghi doubts: Estupinan is ready on the left. Thuram and Pio Esposito to extend the lead to 13 points. Calhanoglu favourite over Mkhitaryan in central midfield.
Napoli must win
Hojlund makes his 30th consecutive appearance, chasing 10 Serie A goals for the first time. Sal Da Vinci’s show at the Maradona, coming from the Sanremo triumph
Spalletti waits for Yildiz’s goals
Decisive Kenan contribution in the race for the Champions League. Vlahovic still in doubt for Pisa
Dybala stops: 3/4 of Roma
Stop for La Joya. Pellegrini and Pisilli behind Malen at Marassi. Gasp: ‘My most difficult challenge here.’
Tuttosport
Juventus call Vicario
First contact with the Tottenham goalkeeper
The Italian wants to leave Spurs, who value him at 20-25m. Inter and Roma also in the race. Intrview to Rampulla: ‘I like Guglielmo, but Di Gregorio deserves trust. I think rotations in goal don’t work.’ Defence: acceleration for Senesi.
D’Aversa is looking for a miracle and a contract
The Granata coach aims to secure survival and to be confirmed for next season. The Maradona continues to protest against Cairo: ‘Out of the stadium until the end of the season.’
Stramaccioni plays Milan-Inter
‘Another Leao with Max. Barella, do a Lautaro.’
The coach and pundit: ‘Allegri has brought the mentality of a top side and with Rabiot and Modric…Chivu respects everyone but follows his pathway.’
Tottenham fan Chris Cowlin says the team "completely lack fight and desire" as the possibility of relegation becomes a "reality".
"I'm lost for words with what I've seen," he told BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast after Thursday's 3-1 home defeat by Crystal Palace.
"You want fight, you want desire and, most importantly, you need the points to get out of this mess.
"How are we going to do it because what is an easy game for us right now? Whoever we play against we're struggling, especially at home.
"At the start pf the game the fans were up for it and very much behind the players, but under Igor Tudor now it's three games, three defeats and nine goals conceded.
"The fans are extremely disappointed and angry in the manner of these goals we're conceding.
"At half-time, hundreds - if not thousands - left the stadium because they'd seen too much. It's too much for a lot of people and the reality now is Spurs might get relegated.
"When we moved into this stadium in 2019 it was supposed to be a game-changer for us and the springboard to success and competing for top honours.
"If we don't buck up our ideas very quickly we will find ourselves in the Championship. All the other teams down there are showing fight and desire, and we lack that completely."
"I've never known a time like this and it's very sad to see."
Roman Abramovich (left) sold Chelsea in May 2022, 15 months after Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney bought Wrexham in February 2021 [Getty Images]
Loved by their fans but loathed by rivals, free‑spending Wrexham have done to the English Football League what Chelsea did to European football in 2003.
The Welsh club's rise from the fifth‑tier National League to the Championship has been dramatic, and they have now reached the FA Cup fifth round for the first time in 19 years - hosting a glamour tie against Chelsea on Saturday, live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer (17:45 GMT).
The match, one of the biggest in Wrexham's 162-year history, comes after significant financial backing from Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, who bought Wrexham for a nominal amount in 2021. That investment has prompted accusations from rivals that the club are buying success.
Chelsea faced similar criticism in 2003 when a little-known Russian oligarch, Roman Abramovich, transformed the club by buying it for £140m and writing off £80m of debt. Using his private wealth, Abramovich did not need to balance the books and spent £121.3m on 11 players in his first summer in charge.
Some argue his arrival paved the way for the Abu Dhabi‑backed takeover of Manchester City and Qatar's acquisition of Paris St‑Germain, moves that prompted the Premier League and European football authorities to introduce financial controls.
And while a wave of wealthy foreign investors - including those at Wrexham - have since entered the English game, many see them as following the playbook of Abramovich, one of football's most influential figures of the past 30 years, wherever you stand on his impact.
Players, infrastructure and their own John Terry
Max Cleworth is the only active first-team player to pre-date Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney's 2021 takeover at Wrexham [Getty Images]
In simple terms, a major financial investment has brought success on the pitch.
Wrexham have strengthened their first team with significant signings. Striker Paul Mullin (currently on loan at Bradford City), score 38 goals as he helped end the club's 15‑year stay in the National League as champions in 2023.
Beating rivals to experienced players such as Steven Fletcher and James McClean has been owed in part to the substantial wages on offer. This season, Wrexham shattered their transfer record to sign Nathan Broadhead from Ipswich Town in a deal worth up to £10m.
Yet, just as Chelsea had John Terry, at the heart of the project is academy‑produced defender Max Cleworth.
Wrexham chief executive Michael Williamson told BBC Sport at the FT Business of Football Summit: "You saw in this last transfer window, going from League One to the Championship, we brought in 13 new players, right? Which is a massive change.
"People say, 'Oh, you had a transfer market where your net spend was £30m'. Well, that's because we had no players we could sell. Norwich probably spent just as much, if not more, but they also sold a lot of players - same with Ipswich.
"Max Cleworth was playing with us in the National League and now has the most minutes for our club in the Championship. So it's about building the foundation and then adding the supplements."
Not everyone likes missing out on transfers - Bayern Munich's former chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge called on the European Union to regulate the spending, while then Shrewsbury Town manager Gareth Ainsworth said it was "not fair" to be competing with Wrexham because of "all the money they had".
As the Abramovich playbook showed, spending must come at all levels - and happen quickly. Chelsea moved from a second‑rate training ground at Harlington, shared with Imperial College, to a state‑of‑the‑art facility, invested heavily in their academy and women's team, and made two attempts to redevelop Stamford Bridge under their former owner.
Wrexham, meanwhile, operate a Category Three academy but aim to reach Category One.
Their women's team is also receiving increased investment, moving to semi‑professional status and competing for the Welsh league title after beating rivals Cardiff City in the Welsh League Cup. They also bought them a stadium.
Chelsea's visit also exposes the strains of Wrexham's rapid growth, with about 250 media representatives expected - far above the usual 80 at Championship matches.
"If we arrive in the Premier League, there are things we'll have to do to other stands in relation to broadcast, building out TV gantries and providing media spaces," Williamson added. "That would be the next kind of infrastructure investment."
Only three stands will remain open at the 10,600‑seat Stok Cae Ras until the new Kop stand opens next April, taking capacity to more than 18,000.
"The Kop stand will have new amenities, fan engagement areas and an iconic design for the town, city and club," Williamson said.
Wrexham's next "North Star", according to Williamson, is hosting matches as part of the UK bid for the 2035 Women's World Cup. That would require expanding capacity further to about 24,000.
Williamson also highlights how even after going from 40 to 150 permanent staff in five years, he still has to help out with jobs like moving boxes of football shirts, which are now being sold in the United States for the first time.
Chelsea were copied, now Wrexham are
Wrexham have earned three successive promotions since losing in the play-offs in the first season under their current owners [Getty Images]
The number of international supporters around Wrexham, like Chelsea, highlights how they are bigger than ever, although they started from a much lower base.
Chelsea had financial issues of their own under former owner Ken Bates and a 50‑year top‑flight title drought, while Abramovich was surprised by the level of attention football brought him after buying the club.
By contrast, Wrexham supporters famously clubbed together to raise £100,000 in 2011, saving the club before passing it on to Reynolds and McElhenney, following a period of suspicion after being burned by previous owners. It is why their visible investment and presence in the local community has been welcomed.
Two lucrative overseas friendlies against Chelsea underlined how their niche but growing fanbase can match Premier League opposition, having also faced Manchester United and Bournemouth in the United States. On Wednesday they announced they will be back in the US for pre-season for matches against Premier League trio Leeds, Liverpool and Sunderland.
Meanwhile, record-breaking revenues were reported in their last accounts while in League Two, behind only five Championship clubs despite being two divisions lower.
"You can't not be excited about the growth in the brand and profile of Wrexham in the United States - it's impossible to ignore," CBS executive vice‑president of programming, Dan Weinberg, told BBC Sport in the summer. CBS broadcasted all Wrexham's League One matches live in the US, making them the first club in the third tier to achieve that feat.
Weinberg added: "We showed more Wrexham matches - just as we showed more EFL matches - in the United States than ever before. Wrexham is a clear example of a club with outsized appeal in the US market because of everything Rob and Ryan have done to grow their brand."
Since Wrexham's 2021 takeover, rapper Snoop Dogg has bought into Swansea City, former NFL quarterback Tom Brady into Birmingham City and fellow NFL star JJ Watt into Burnley. YouTuber KSI became also became minority stakeholder in non-league London club Dagenham & Redbridge on Tuesday.
For better or worse, Chelsea were pioneers in the 2000s - and the same could be said of Wrexham in the 2020s.
Asheville is set to become the epicenter of mid-major drama as the 2026 Ingles Southern Conference (SoCon) Men’s Basketball Championship returns to the Harrah’s Cherokee Center.
With top-seeded East Tennessee State eyeing its first tournament crown in six years and a tightly packed field where the top six teams were separated by just a few games, the road to the Big Dance is wide open.
Expect high stakes and a loud building as ten teams battle for a single automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.
Here is the men's schedule for the 2026 SoCon Tournament:
The first two rounds of the SoCon men's basketball tournament are available to stream on ESPN+, with select games also appearing on Nexstar affiliates and South Carolina ETV. The semifinals will air live nationally on ESPNU (or ESPN2), while the championship game will be broadcast on ESPN.
All games can also be streamed via the ESPN App by logging in with a television provider.
Location: Harrah’s Cherokee Center in Asheville, North Carolina
The 2026 SoCon men's basketball tournament begins on Friday, March 6, and concludes with the championship game on Monday, March 9. All games will be played at the Harrah’s Cherokee Center in Asheville.
Friday, March 6: First Round
Game
Time (ET)
TV / Live Stream
#8 Chattanooga vs. #9 The Citadel
5:00 PM
ESPN App / Nexstar
#7 UNCG vs. #10 VMI
7:30 PM
ESPN App / Nexstar
Saturday, March 7: Quarterfinals
Game
Time (ET)
TV / Live Stream
#1 ETSU vs. Game 1 Winner
12:00 PM
ESPN App / SCETV
#2 Wofford vs. Game 2 Winner
2:30 PM
ESPN App / SCETV
#3 Samford vs. #6 Furman
6:00 PM
ESPN App
#4 Mercer vs. #5 Western Carolina
8:30 PM
ESPN App
Sunday, March 8: Semifinals
Game
Time (ET)
TV / Live Stream
Semifinal #1
4:00 PM
ESPNU / ESPN2
Semifinal #2
6:30 PM
ESPNU / ESPN2
Monday, March 9: Championship
Game
Time (ET)
TV / Live Stream
SoCon Championship Game
7:00 PM
ESPN
Southern Conference men's tournament radio coverage 2026
You can catch the 2026 SoCon men’s basketball tournament live on SiriusXM.
Start your first month of SiriusXM for free and gain access to live coverage of the NBA, NFL, MLB, and NHL, alongside NASCAR and comprehensive college sports. Stay informed with 24/7 news and expert analysis across multiple sport-specific channels—including dedicated coverage of the Southern Conference on SiriusXM College Sports Radio.
Morocco: Mohamed Ouahbi appointed head coach (Official)
Mohamed Ouahbi replaces Walid Regragui
Morocco: Mohamed Ouahbi appointed head coach (Official)
It's now official! Mohamed Ouahbi has been officially named as Morocco's head coach, succeeding Walid Regragui.
Following the announcement of Walid Regragui's departure as head coach, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation has revealed his successor. Mohamed Ouahbi takes the reins, with João Sacramento joining his technical staff.
"I am aware of the expectations, deeply honored, and I commit to working with determination, humility, and patriotism," reacted the new head coach of the Atlas Lions.
2. Bundesliga Preview: SV Elversberg vs. 1. FC Magdeburg
Elverberg will hope to momentarily climb to the top three with a home win against out-of-form Magdeburg on Friday. The overachievers drew with Holstein Kiel in Tim Walter's debut last time out after winning the previous two games. Meanwhile, Magdeburg lost five of their last six games.
Petrik Sander, who got the job on a permanent basis after improving the side's fortunes, is now facing a huge task in reviving Magdeburg's hopes of survival. Although they're only two points off safety, there is no secret that their recent form is the worst out of all the teams fighting for safety.
In contrast, Elversberg are now back in business in their search for a first-ever promotion to Bundesliga. Vincent Wagner's side are yet to keep a clean sheet in 2026, but they now managed to go three games without defeat for the first time since the league resumes.
Magdeburg stunned Elversberg with a comeback 5-2 victory the last time they visited Waldstadion an der Kaiserlinde, but the promotion hopefuls already avenged that scoreline in their first head-to-head meeting this term. Bambase Conte scored and assisted twice in a 4-0 victory for Elversberg on matchday eight.
Team News
However, Conte will not be available on Friday due to an injury. In addition, Elversberg's Amara Condé and Magdeburg's duo Tobias Müller and Falko Michel are all suspended after their respective fifth yellow cards of the season on matchday 24.
Robertson explains what went wrong for Liverpool vs Wolves
Andy Robertson has admitted Liverpool’s performance level simply was not good enough during the 2-1 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier this week, with the defender now calling for a strong response in tonight’s FA Cup meeting between the sides.
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The Reds dominated possession for long spells at Molineux but still ended up leaving with nothing after Andre’s deflected stoppage-time strike sealed a dramatic win for the hosts.
Several moments in the build-up to that late goal have already been analysed in detail.
Stephen Warnock pointed to a crucial moment when Liverpool attempted to play out from the back, saying: “It was a mistake from Curtis Jones – he plays a ball into Alisson and Alisson’s never going to get any purchase on it.”
Those moments ultimately cost us the match, but Robertson believes the issues ran deeper than just one phase of play.
Robertson admits Liverpool were below standard
Speaking to BBC Sport, the Scotland international acknowledged the overall performance simply lacked the intensity required to win Premier League matches.
Robertson said: “The performance levels wasn’t good enough on Tuesday, there’s no coming away from that, you don’t win many games of football playing the way we did.”
The Liverpool left-back felt the team only raised the tempo too late in the game.
The 31-year-old defender added: “I think we probably put intensity into the game a bit too late.”
Robertson also explained that the match became chaotic late on as both teams pushed forward in search of a winner.
He said: “I thought first half kind of lacked intensity and things like that, then the game, in the last 10 minutes just turned into a basketball match.”
Liverpool targeting immediate response
Despite the disappointment, Robertson was keen to highlight that Wolves are far stronger than their league position might suggest.
The experienced Scotland international pointed out that Rob Edwards’ side have taken points from several top teams recently.
He said: “Especially under this new manager, we know Wolves are competitive. It’s not Wolves that are 20th in the league.”
Liverpool now have the opportunity to respond almost immediately with tonight’s FA Cup tie at the same ground.
Our No.26 believes the focus since Tuesday has been entirely on producing a far better display in the rematch.
Concluding: “We know we need to play a lot better than we did the other night to get anything out of the game… and hopefully we can go and show that on Friday night.”
Bayern Munich vs Borussia Mönchengladbach: Team news and predicted line-up
Following a stunning Der Klassiker victory, Bayern Munich will aim to pull further clear at the top of the Bundesliga table when they welcome Borussia Mönchengladbach at the Allianz Arena on Friday.
Bayern enter their final 10-game run of the season and require only 20 points to claim the league title. Striker Harry Kane led the Bavarians to a stellar derby win over Borussia Dortmund in their previous outing, as a clinical Joshua Kimmich strike followed the Englishman’s brace finish to drown the Signal Iduna Park crowd despite their team scoring twice.
Vincent Kompany confirmed the absence of star man Kane for the match as he sustained a calf injury. The injury problem for Alphonso Davies is set to provide a start to Konrad Laimer as the left full-back. Manuel Neuer is deemed to be fit ahead of the match and could start in goal.
As for Mönchengladbach, they come into this match on the back of a narrow 1-0 victory over Union Berlin, courtesy of an added-time spotkick by Kevin Diks. Die Fohlen’s current tally stands at 25 points, putting them clear by three from the 16th-placed relegation playoff spot, but things could change quickly as they have clashes against Köln, St. Pauli and Heidenheim coming up following the trip to Bavaria.
Midfielder Yannik Engelhardt will be unavailable for manager Eugen Polanski after his yellow card against Die Eisernen. Franck Honorat, Haris Tabaković and Wael Mohya are set to feature in the starting eleven. Tim Kleindienst continues his recovery from a knee injury.
Predicted Line-ups for the match between Bayern Munich and Borussia Mönchengladbach
Little more than a year ago, the Boston Red Sox had what was considered one of the best farm systems in baseball.
Now, after graduating several top prospects to the Major Leagues and trading away others to strengthen their MLB roster, they rank closer to average.
MLB Pipeline unveiled its 2026 preseason farm system rankings on Thursday, and the Red Sox ranked 14th. That's back to where they were two preseasons ago, down from 11th in the 2025 midseason rankings and third in the 2025 preseason rankings.
That's not necessarily a bad thing, as former top prospects like Roman Anthony, Marcelo Mayer and Kristian Campbell are in the big leagues now. Others, like Payton Tolle and Connelly Early, debuted last season and will likely join them soon.
Boston's also been aggressive in trading prospects for proven talent, doing so for Garrett Crochet, Dustin May, Steven Matz, Johan Oviedo, Sonny Gray and Willson Contreras.
The Red Sox farm system is thinner now as a result, but it still has plenty of pitching depth thanks to the pipeline Craig Breslow has built.
"The Red Sox experienced the second-biggest drop (11 spots) in our rankings from 12 months ago, the result of graduating three elite prospects (Roman Anthony, Kristian Campbell, Marcelo Mayer) and dealing off several other farmhands," MLB Pipeline writes.
"But they still have a decent system and more pitching prospect depth than they've enjoyed in years, with Tolle and Early taking big leaps forward in 2025 and finishing the season on the big league playoff roster. Boston also features more international signees (15) on its Top 30 than any other system, highlighted by shortstops Franklin Arias and Dorian Soto, right-hander Juan Valera and outfielder Justin Gonzales."
In other words, Boston's farm system is still in pretty good shape. Brelow still has trade chips there if needed, plus ample pitching reinforcements coming down the pike.
The Red Sox need to replenish their hitting prospects, but there should be plenty of time for that if Anthony, Mayer, Campbell and others pan out as hoped.
NEW DELHI: England captain Harry Brook admitted that costly fielding lapses — including a dropped catch of Sanju Samson — played a decisive role in his side’s defeat to India in the semi-final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup on Thursday.
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Speaking during the post-match presentation, Brook conceded that England misread the conditions and failed to execute their plans, particularly in the field, allowing India to post a daunting total.
“We thought there might have been hold, spin in the first innings, slid onto the bat nicely, and India batted well. I'll hold my hands up and admit I made a big mistake dropping Samson. We weren't good enough in the field. We misexecuted, and can't afford to do that against India,” Brook said.
The turning point came when Brook dropped Samson while the Indian batter was on just 15. The chance, off the bowling of Jofra Archer, proved extremely costly as Samson went on to anchor India’s innings with a commanding knock.
Samson’s blistering 89 off 42 balls powered India to a formidable 253/7, a total that eventually proved just out of England’s reach.
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“Yeah, catches win matches, don’t they? Unfortunately, it didn't stay in my hands and yeah, it's just one of those things. Unfortunately, I didn't catch it and he played a very, very good innings as well and arguably won them the game,” Brook said.
The England skipper admitted that the missed opportunity stayed on his mind throughout the chase.
“Obviously, it's in the back of your mind as the game goes on. I kept on looking at the scoreboard and he was piling the runs on. I was like, ‘I'm going to have to get an 80 or 90 tonight.’ Not ideal, but it's happened now,” he added.
Despite the defeat, Brook found positives in England’s spirited chase, particularly praising young batter Jacob Bethell for his fearless century.
Bethell smashed 105 off just 48 balls, while Will Jacks contributed 35 during a counter-attacking partnership that briefly revived England’s hopes.
“Bethell was absolutely unbelievable, he'll earn some serious money. To see him taking it from ball one showed the world what he can do,” Brook said.
England eventually finished on 246/7, falling agonisingly short despite Bethell’s heroics and a late blitz from Archer. Brook, however, insisted his side could still take pride in their campaign.
“We had a good tournament; we should be extremely proud of how we played. We stuck to it the whole game; unfortunately, we were on the wrong side,” he said.
TimesofIndia.com in Mumbai:“Dukhi mat ho bhai... kabhi bhi mauka aa sakta hai (Don't be disheartened, opportunity can come anytime),” were former India captain Rohit Sharma's comforting words when he met Sanju Samson before India's T20 World Cup opener against the USA at the Wankhede Stadium around a month ago. Little did he know then that the player, who was nowhere close to making the playing XI, would keep India alive in the tournament not once but twice. The backstory, the ups and downs, and the battle for the slot are now in the past, as the wicketkeeper-batter has timed his form perfectly and emerged as a force to reckon with at just the right time.
If the unbeaten 97 in Kolkata against the West Indies was calm and controlled, the 89-run knock in Mumbai was pure dominance. Two contrasting knocks resulted in the same outcome for India, a win. As he settled into the chair for a refreshing interaction with the media, the 31-year-old reflected on the two innings but kept his responses measured because there is “one more step to go.”
“It feels really great and also relieving that I have been trying for a few years to do something like this for my country. I have been waiting with a lot of patience, a lot of inner work, a lot of training and a lot of practice. So definitely I should be very grateful, but I also feel that we have one more step to go. If we do that, then I think all the work and everything was worth it.
“So I feel that one more innings should be really good. And yes, I think the last innings definitely played a good role in this innings as well. I knew I was timing the ball really well and making good decisions. I thought that if you are in form, you should definitely contribute to your team in this game as well. So that’s how I prepared for today and things came together very nicely,” said Samson.
He was within striking distance of scoring back-to-back hundreds for the side, especially in a World Cup, but he chose to look at the brighter side, valuing the match-winning contribution more than the milestone. The Kolkata run chase forced him to bat a certain way due to the regular fall of wickets, but he realised early that domination would be the key while batting first in the semi-final on an absolute belter of a pitch.
From 12 boundaries and four sixes in Kolkata to eight boundaries and seven sixes in Mumbai, the intensity remained the same in both outings. The strike rates were in similar territory, but the approach was dictated by the match situation and what would work best for the team at that moment.
“Last match was all about taking the team along. As soon as we built momentum, wickets kept falling in the last game, so I had to finish it off till the last ball. But this game was completely different. When you are batting first in Wankhede, you know that no score is enough here, so I just wanted to capitalise on as many fours and sixes as possible for the team,” explained Samson.
The last time India and England faced each other in a bilateral T20I series, Samson was troubled by Jofra Archer with some short-pitched bowling. But the opener came well prepared to take on the speedster. A stable base and slight alterations to his initial movement have allowed him to get into better positions, and he used the depth of the crease well to avoid being rushed by the extra pace and bounce available early in the innings.
In that T20I series, Archer dismissed Samson three times in 23 balls. But Thursday’s contest went the opener’s way as he made the most of an early reprieve off Archer’s bowling to punish the bowler. Thirty-nine runs off just 14 balls, including three boundaries and four sixes, ensured that the highly anticipated battle between the former IPL teammates had a clear winner.
“It was definitely playing in my mind. Last time when we played them at home, we played five games against England and Jofra was definitely a very effective bowler at that time. So I had to do some preparation and be a bit clearer in my head about how I was going to face him. I tried to apply that today. He is definitely a world-class bowler.
“You need to respect what he does and at the same time you need to be confident as well. I was a bit more confident because I had just played a really good innings a couple of days ago. I needed to take that confidence forward and that helped me tackle the bowlers today,” said Samson.
Having played over 300 T20 games, Samson has often started conversations about his batting but failed to sustain them due to inconsistency. The decade-long wait for his maiden T20 World Cup appearance ended in unusual circumstances as Abhishek Sharma was unavailable due to illness. However, he is now the rightful owner of the top-of-the-order spot. While some burden is off his shoulders after two back-to-back Man of the Match performances, he remains focused on Sunday’s title clash.
“One more match, then I’ll feel very light,” came his response when asked whether he felt relieved after the match-winning innings.
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Rohit, who tried to keep his former T20I teammate in good spirits on February 7, would have been a proud man watching the action unfold from the stands on Thursday.
“It’s a long tournament,” the former India captain had said on February 7 while hugging Samson, who assured him that he was fine. The smile was a distraction, but the eyes told a story.
That story, however, was rewritten within a few weeks and the next video clip of the two talking is now keenly awaited.
Atalanta rejected a loan and demanded a €50 million transfer fee.
Bayern made a move for Ademola Lookman
Bayern Munich did in fact explore the possibility of signing Ademola Lookman last summer. According to several sources, the German club had reached an agreement with the forward regarding a potential transfer.
But the deal fell through. Atalanta BC refused any loan offer and demanded around €50 million for a permanent transfer. No club was willing to meet that price. Bayern ultimately opted for another solution, bringing in Nicolas Jackson on loan. The striker failed to truly impress and is expected to return to Chelsea FC at the end of the season, with his future at the club still uncertain.
As for Lookman, he left Atalanta to join Atlético Madrid during the latest transfer window for around €35 million. His move further highlights the interest the player has generated on the market.
🥐 Ghosts in Vigo, Laporta and Rafa Mir: 5️⃣ stories to start your day
From the ghosts of Balaídos to the courts of Valencia. Today, our five news stories of the day are packed, and the icing on the cake is provided by Tottenham, that club that has turned 'almost' into an art form. Let's get started!
🔙 Do you remember the last time Madrid lost in Vigo?
Arbeloa's team visits Balaídos today, pressured by urgency after losing to Getafe, but knowing they haven't lost there since the 2013-14 season (10 wins, 2 draws, one loss).
Two goals by Charles to topple Madrid are part of Celta's history.
📸 Juan Manuel Serrano Arce - 2014 Getty Images
A look at the line-ups, in Ancelotti's first season and with Luis Enrique at Celta, shoots our nostalgia to the sky.
Celta: Sergio Álvarez; Aurtenetxe, Fontàs, Cabral, Otto; Augusto Fernández, Khron-Dehli, Rafinha, Nolito, Orellana, and Charles.
Real Madrid: Diego López; Marcelo, Nacho, Ramos, Arbeloa; Xabi Alonso, Casemiro, Khedira, Isco, Modric, and Morata.
🗳️ Laporta activates seller mode
The elections in Barcelona have begun, and the former president is in his element with a very clear communication line: he asks for the vote from Barcelona fans for his management in recent years.
Will it be enough to become president again?
⚖️ Ten and a half years in prison requested for Rafa Mir
The newspaper 'Las Provincias' reported yesterday the sentence requested by the public prosecutor for the Elche forward, accused of alleged rape.
😞 Tottenham, endless disappointments
Seeing the despair of Tottenham fans in the face of yet another failure of their team is becoming its own subgenre within the Premier League...
Christian Falk drops early morning Konrad Laimer to Liverpool transfer update
Liverpool are not concretely interested in signing Konrad Laimer this summer.
Links have arisen in connection with the reigning Premier League champions following reports of the Bavarians hitting pause on the German’s contract talks.
That situation remains static, with the auxiliary right back understood to be far from happy with the original contract offer on the table.
However, any notion of the Reds being prepared to reignite their interest ahead of the upcoming summer window is understood to be wide of the mark.
As Christian Falk exclusively informed CF Bayern Insider: “It is NOT TRUE: Liverpool are concretely interested in Konrad Laimer.
“Many clubs see that he’s been very strong as a backup right-back and has actually been one of the best right-backs in Europe at the moment. He’s a midfielder by trade, of course.
“Everyone can see there have been problems in contract negotiations with Bayern. I heard there has only been one meeting in this regard, which took place at the end of the last season. Bayern Munich made an offer, and it was better than the contract he has now. Though not quite as good as Laimer was hoping!”
His average rating of 7.29/10 in the Bundesliga puts him firmly within the top nine players at FC Bayern, ahead of Dayot Upamecano (7.27/10) and Aleksandar Pavlović (7.24/10), according to Fotmob.
There could be hope yet for clubs interested in the Bayern star
That’s not to suggest that there’s an absolute guarantee Konrad Laimer will remain a Bayern Munich player after the summer window closes.
With his current contract set to expire in 2027, the Allianz Arena-dwelling outfit can hardly afford to let this one play out.
The head of football at BILD added: “The German thought, considering he’s been playing so frequently and at a high standard, he would get in the range, not of the top earners like Harry Kane, but perhaps the second tier earning around the €15m (£13m) a year mark.
“But the offer from Bayern was far from this, so he was a little disappointed.
“I heard his agent, Andreas Sadlo, from ROOF – there are many agents – and Andreas Ottl (a former Bayern player) were at the meeting. They said, ‘We don’t have to talk about the salary now because this offer is not what we were expecting.’
“So, they’re just going to let time pass and wait, not too dissimilarly to Dayot Upamecano’s situation.”
But it’s a somewhat complicated situation for Max Eberl and Co. to navigate. Even more so because new deals are also a priority for Harry Kane and Michael Olise (the latter of whom is also of interest to the Premier League).
However, losing Laimer, whilst the comparatively less important player in that trio, would represent a notable blow for a side that has been lacking a reliable natural right-back this term.
Getafe forward questions referee decision after Rudiger incident vs Real Madrid: ‘Health was at risk’
The aftermath of the clash between Real Madrid and Getafe continues to spark debate, particularly over a controversial moment involving Antonio Rudiger and Getafe defender Diego Rico.
The incident occurred during the first half of the match and quickly caught the attention of players and supporters alike.
With Rico already on the ground, Rudiger’s knee appeared to make contact with the defender’s face during the play.
Despite the physical nature of the moment, referee Alejandro Muniz Ruiz allowed the match to continue without showing a card, and the VAR team did not intervene to review the situation.
Within Getafe, the decision was met with confusion. Several players felt the challenge deserved at least a closer look, especially given the potential danger involved.
Questions from the goalscorer
Speaking to the media days after the match, Getafe striker Martin Satriano shared his perspective on the moment.
The forward, who scored the match-winning goal, was positioned close to the play and believes the contact was clear from where he was standing.
A moment concerning Antonio Rudiger went unpunished. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
“I was very close to the play. Live, I clearly saw that he hit him in the face with his knee and, honestly, I didn’t understand the referee’s decision.
“I think it’s a mistake that shouldn’t happen, because in this case, Diego Rico’s health was put at risk.
“I hope they pay more attention in future plays, because it’s something that could also happen to one of them and you have to be much more careful,” he assessed.
He believes moments like these should encourage officials to be more attentive when situations arise that could endanger a player.
In modern football, where VAR technology is available to review potential fouls and dangerous actions, players often expect incidents involving head contact or risky challenges to receive extra scrutiny.
From the Getafe perspective, the lack of intervention left many within the team feeling frustrated, which is quite justified.
Barcelona captain reveals the one moment he will never forget after 200th game: ‘I’ll go with…’
Ronald Araujo reached a major personal milestone this week after making his 200th appearance for Barcelona during the team’s 3-0 victory over Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey semi-final second leg.
The moment marked another important chapter in the defender’s journey at the club.
Having joined Barcelona as a relatively unknown 19-year-old prospect, Araujo has grown into one of the most important figures in the squad and is now part of the club’s captaincy group.
Speaking in an interview with SPORT, the 26-year-old opened up about his emotions after reaching the landmark number of appearances.
“For me, reaching 200 games with Barça is a dream come true,” he began saying.
Looking back at the early days of his career at the club, Araujo admitted that achieving such a milestone was never something he expected so soon after arriving in Spain.
“The truth is that reaching 200 games was something I saw as a long way off. When I arrived at the age of 19, I only dreamed of playing for the first team.”
Memorable moments
Over the course of those appearances, the defender has experienced many memorable nights wearing the Barcelona shirt.
When asked to choose one standout moment from the 200 matches he has played, Araujo pointed to a special night against Real Madrid.
“I could name many games that have given us titles and will remain in my memory, come to mind… but I’ll go with the 4-0 Clasico in which I scored a goal, in 2022.”
Reflecting on his overall time at the club, the Uruguayan highlighted the trophies he has won with Barcelona as the moments he values the most.
“I would choose the titles we won. Lifting a trophy in this shirt is always very special because you know how much it means to the club and the fans,” he noted.
A source of pride
Araujo is proud to have made 20th appearance for Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
As one of the captains in the current squad, Araujo also spoke about what it means to lead the team and represent the club on the pitch.
“It’s a huge source of pride. Barça has a great history with many captains who are legends.
“For me, it means responsibility, representing the club’s values, and helping my teammates on and off the field.”
The defender also admitted that reaching the 200-game mark feels even more meaningful after the challenges he has faced with mental stress in recent months.
“Yes, because when you go through difficult times, you appreciate everything much more.
“I worked hard to get back to full fitness and be able to help the team, so reaching 200 games has a special meaning.”
Aiming for more
After dealing with injuries and difficult moments earlier in the season, Araujo expressed gratitude for the support he has received along the way.
“I’m very grateful. To God, my family, the club, and the fans.
“It’s been a difficult few months, with a lot of hard work, and when you see that all that effort is worth it, it gives you a lot of motivation to keep going.”
Despite already reaching an impressive milestone, the Barcelona defender insists his ambitions at the club remain clear.
“My dream is to keep winning titles with Barça.
“If I reach 300 or 400 games, it will be because I’m doing my job well and helping the team, so hopefully I can keep adding to that number for many years to come,” he concluded.
Serie A calling: top club eyeing up Mittelstädt move
Maximilian Mittelstädt is one of the key players for VfB this season. Sebastian Hoeneß rarely leaves him out. It goes without saying that the defender is also attracting interest from other clubs.
Reportedly, Napoli has set their sights on the German national player. The usually well-informed transfer reporter Matteo Moretto has reported on the interest. There have even been initial contacts between the club and the player, but nothing more so far.
Mittelstädt's contract with the Swabians runs until 2028. According to media reports, he does not have a release clause, so VfB could demand a high transfer fee and thus seems to have the upper hand for now.
LeBron James finished Thursday's game with a career tally of 15,842 field goals [Getty Images]
LeBron James surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most field goals scored in NBA history as the Los Angeles Lakers lost at the Denver Nuggets on Thursday.
James scored 16 points for the Lakers in the 120-113 defeat and passed Abdul-Jabbar's tally of 15,837 during the first quarter.
The 41-year-old, who is playing in an unprecedented 23rd NBA season, passed Abdul-Jabbar to become the top scorer in NBA history in February 2023.
"Being mentioned with some of the greatest to ever play this game has always been humbling," said James, the league's four-time Most Valuable Player.
"I grew up watching, reading [about], idolising a lot of the greats, and if I was able to be part of the NBA, I wanted to put myself in position that I can be named with some of the greats by doing something right.
"It's a pretty cool feat, but it's hard for me to kind of wrap my head around it or what it looks like."
Lakers coach JJ Redick likened the evolution of James' career to that of Bruce Springsteen, saying: "You get to the end and you're like, 'this guy's greatest hits are like insane'.
"And LeBron's greatest hits, he just keeps adding to them. He just plays and plays and plays and the greatest hits, he's got a hell of a catalogue."
James passed Abdul-Jabbar's points record before field goals as three-point shots were introduced midway through the NBA legend's career.
The six-time champion spent most of his 20-year career with the Lakers and retired in 1989 having scored 55.9% of his 28,307 shots. James has a 51.6% scoring rate.
The four-time champion is set to claim another record as Thursday's game was his 1,606th in the regular season, putting him five behind Robert Parish.
Fellow All Stars Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray each scored 28 points for Denver, who stayed fifth in the Western Conference standings, one spot above the Lakers.
Second-placed San Antonio claimed their 13th victory from 14 games, with Victor Wembanyama returning to top form with 38 points and 16 rebounds as the Spurs won 121-106 at home against the Detroit Pistons, who lead the Eastern Conference.
Mercedes’ pace in free practice for the Australian Grand Prix shows the Silver Arrows aren't concealing their true performance like they used to, according to Charles Leclerc.
McLaren was fastest on Friday in Melbourne with Oscar Piastri lapping in 1m19.729s; Mercedes was two tenths away with Kimi Antonelli setting a 1m19.943s, but the W17’s long-run pace particularly impressed Leclerc, who ended up more than half a second off Piastri’s pace after a couple of off-track excursions.
“I think Mercedes is slowly showing a bit more of what they have, and FP2 we are starting to see where we are lacking compared to them,” the Monegasque said. “They are clearly very strong, especially in terms of race pace. I don't know how much margin they still have on qualifying pace but in the race pace they seem to be very strong compared to us.”
“Race pace, they were very, very impressive,” he added. “In terms of qualifying pace, again, it's difficult to know how much more there is to come. Oscar did a very impressive lap, but I don't know also what they are doing between the cars because maybe they might be testing different things between the cars, because Lando was quite far back.
“Again it's the first race of a completely new car, so lots of question marks – but on the long run I will say you have a bit of a better picture of what's going on in the performances of everybody so far. I hope I'm wrong and that we are much faster tomorrow, but at the moment it seems to be Mercedes a step ahead and then Red Bull, McLaren and ourselves after.”
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Leclerc’s team-mate Lewis Hamilton was closer to the front, lapping two tenths faster in 1m20.050s, and the 28-year-old has admitted to having work to do after a set-up experiment failed to pay off.
“I don't really focus on [Mercedes], we've got plenty of things to improve on our car,” Leclerc pointed out. “In FP2 I tried something quite aggressive which didn't work out, so I'll be back tomorrow into a more reasonable window and we'll see how it looks like.
“There's still some work to do. As I've always said, Melbourne and Shanghai are probably the two hardest tracks for me of the season, and I always struggle quite a bit, so it's a challenge. But it shouldn't be an excuse, and actually I enjoy that challenge, and I will work hard in order to turn that situation around tomorrow.”
Leclerc did win the 2022 Australian GP from pole position, but he was outqualified by team-mate Carlos Sainz the next two years, with the Spaniard leading a Ferrari 1-2 in 2024.
Last year, Leclerc outperformed Hamilton on his way to a lowly eighth-place finish in the race.
Photos from Australian GP - Friday
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images
Lando Norris, McLaren
Lando Norris, McLaren
Quinn Rooney / Getty Images
Lando Norris, McLaren
Lando Norris, McLaren
Quinn Rooney / Getty Images
Oscar Piastri, McLaren, Lily Zneimer
Oscar Piastri, McLaren, Lily Zneimer
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls
Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls
Rudy Carezzevoli / Getty Images
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Alexandra Leclerc
Alexandra Leclerc
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Anni Graf - Formula 1 via Getty Images
Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing
Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing
Quinn Rooney / Getty Images
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Lawrence Stroll, Aston Martin
Lawrence Stroll, Aston Martin
Anni Graf - Formula 1 via Getty Images
Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls
Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls
Jayce Illman / Getty Images
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
Sam Bagnall / Sutton Images via Getty Images
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
Sam Bagnall / Sutton Images via Getty Images
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
Sam Bloxham / LAT Images via Getty Images
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images
Pierre Gasly, Alpine
Pierre Gasly, Alpine
Joe Portlock / Getty Images
Pierre Gasly, Alpine
Pierre Gasly, Alpine
Joe Portlock / Getty Images
Edie Piastri
Edie Piastri
Anni Graf - Formula 1 via Getty Images
Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing
Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Bill Ford, great-grandson of Ford founder Henry Ford
Bill Ford, great-grandson of Ford founder Henry Ford
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Mercedes mechanics at work
Mercedes mechanics at work
Martin Keep / AFP via Getty Images
Lando Norris, McLaren
Lando Norris, McLaren
Martin Keep / AFP via Getty Images
Carlos Sainz, Williams
Carlos Sainz, Williams
Peter Fox / Getty Images
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Steven Tee / LAT Images via Getty Images
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Mark Sutton / Formula 1 via Getty Images
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Martin Keep / AFP via Getty Images
George Russell, Mercedes, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
George Russell, Mercedes, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
Sam Bloxham / LAT Images via Getty Images
Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team
Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team
Joe Portlock / Getty Images
Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team
Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team
Joe Portlock / Getty Images
Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari
Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari
Mark Sutton / Formula 1 via Getty Images
Alexander Albon, Williams
Alexander Albon, Williams
Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes, Arvid Lindblad, Racing Bulls
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes, Arvid Lindblad, Racing Bulls
Ferrari's Charles Leclerc was fastest in first practice for the Australian Grand Prix (WILLIAM WEST)
McLaren's Oscar Piastri powered to the fastest time ahead of Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli in second practice for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix on Friday as drivers grappled with sweeping new engine changes.
The Australian sent 125,000 fans at his home track into a frenzy by blasting round Albert Park in one minute 19.729secs, 0.214 clear of Antonelli.
Antonelli's teammate, pre-season favourite George Russell, came third, a fraction clear of Ferrari's seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.
"A lot of learnings but overall a reasonably good day," said Piastri, who won seven times last year but could only finish the championship in third.
"FP2 ran smoothly and we were able to find a bit more consistency and the car behaved more as we expected, which was good."
After a dismal debut season with Ferrari last year, an upbeat Hamilton was encouraged by what had been achieved so far by the Scuderia.
"It was challenging at times on track, but we maximised our laps and executed to the best of our ability, getting some good information," he said.
"Lots of work to do but I'm looking forward to getting back in the car tomorrow."
Charles Leclerc, in the other Ferrari, was fifth with four-time world champion Max Verstappen sixth after spending half the session in the garage having stalled his Red Bull.
McLaren world champion Lando Norris clawed his way to seventh, more than one second off the pace, after managing only seven laps in first practice due to gearbox issues.
"We've got some good bits of data to go over from the second half of FP2 and there's plenty we can learn from what our competitors have been doing," said Norris, while admitting to "a tricky first day".
Racing Bulls' impressive rookie Arvid Lindblad banked an eye-opening eighth, a place ahead of Isack Hadjar -- the man he replaced and who is now Verstappen's teammate.
- F1 begins new era -
It was the first proper test of far-reaching new engine and chassis rules with the hybrid power units now 50 percent traditional combustion and 50 percent electric.
With a finite amount of energy available, drivers had to carefully manage their batteries on each lap, working out when to deploy while building it up back through braking.
The challenge of Albert Park is its long sweeping straights, which deplete batteries, and relatively few twisty turns to brake and charge it up again.
There have also been changes to the aerodynamics of the cars, which are lighter and smaller.
On a perfect Melbourne afternoon, Nico Hulkenberg led them out, but it was Hamilton who set the opening time.
Verstappen had an inauspicious start, stalling in the pit lane, while Russell clipped Lindblad on his way out and needed a new nose.
Verstappen's car was wheeled back into the garage, apparently stuck in gear, where he stayed for almost half an hour.
The drivers started on a mix of medium and hard tyres and Russell soon upstaged Hamilton as they jockeyed for places.
At the halfway mark it was Italy's Antonelli, Russell, Hamilton and Piastri.
Russell locked up and hit the gravel at Turn 3 as he pushed hard, as did Hamilton, but they both kept enough momentum to get back on track.
Piastri blasted to the top of the timesheets on soft tyres with 25 minutes left as Verstappen began climbing the leaderboard.
But the Dutchman was trying too hard and careered into the gravel at Turn 10 with debris flying off his car, ending his day early.
Fernando Alonso clocked 18 laps and Lance Stroll 13 as the troubled Aston Martins battle extreme vibration caused by the new Honda power unit.
Newcomers Cadillac -- the 11th team on the grid -- also struggled with Valtteri Bottas 19th and Sergio Perez last.
In first practice, Leclerc outpaced Hamilton with Verstappen and Hadjar third and fourth.
Santos will likely attract interest once again in the summer, and Jacobs has reported United still have an interest dating back to talks for Garnacho.
“The only other name that I’ve heard and I’ll kind of repeat it from the Garnacho talks, is Andrey Santos,” he told The United Stand.
“And right now, I think less likely than it was when Man United and Chelsea were negotiating over Alejandro Garnacho because at that point, Santos was not really getting game time. And now he’s playing under a manager who knows him really well from Strasbourg.
“And as a consequence, Chelsea’s not for sale stance, which was said at the time when they were talking over Alejandro Garnacho, is probably one that you would expect them to double down on heading into the summer.”
Chelsea exit possible under certain circumstances?
Although a Santos exit is highly unlikely, Jacobs did provide a situation where a departure could possibly occur.
“But if Chelsea brings in another midfielder, you’ve got Enzo Fernandez, who’s been pushed forwards. If Romeo Lavia gets fit, Reece James is being played in midfield and Moises Caicedo is basically undroppable,” he added.
“So Chelsea do have a lot of midfielders and Manchester United’s interest in Andrey Santos also remains.
“It’s just not currently a market opportunity and because of all these long-term contracts that Chelsea hand out as it stands at the moment in any negotiation, they’ve got all of the cards.”
Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:
Barcelona FC: Why hasn't Lewandowski extended his contract yet?
The Polish striker will decide his future in the coming months.
Barcelona FC: Why hasn't Lewandowski extended his contract yet?
The future of Robert Lewandowski remains undecided. The FC Barcelona striker revealed that he will make his decision in a few months, most likely at the end of the season.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Robert Lewandowski made it clear that he doesn't feel under any pressure to resolve his future just yet:
I don't feel any pressure. When you're 30 or younger, it's a different feeling and every day you're wondering where you'll play next. But right now, I don't need to know. I'm patient and I know how to wait for the right moment.
At 37, Lewandowski prefers to bide his time and carefully assess the situation—especially at Barcelona—before making any final decision. Meanwhile, the Polish international continues to deliver on the pitch, with 14 goals and 3 assists in 32 appearances this season.
Tottenham Hotspur fans must have hoped that least season's Premier League performances under Ange Postecoglou were an aberration. It doesn't look that way.
The north London side suffered their 13th defeat in 28 league matches to usher in March, going down 2-1 at Fulham. The result left them just four points outside the relegation places. The club has not won in league play in 10 straight matches, dating back to a 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace in late December.
Thomas Frank was sacked on February 11 following a defeat to Newcastle United, with interim boss Igor Tudor installed in his place through at least the end of the season.
It still feels highly unlikely that Spurs really could be dragged into the bottom three and there are plenty of games left to turn things around, but the mere fact that relegation is even being mentioned is hugely embarrassing for a club named the ninth most valuable soccer team by Forbes in 2025.
If the unthinkable should happen, would it be a first for Spurs? The Sporting News looks through the history books.
In the Premier League era, Tottenham have never been relegated from the top flight.
The last time Spurs dropped out of the top division was back in 1977, when they were relegated to the second tier under manager Keith Burkinshaw.
They won promotion back to the top table the next season, and they have been ever-present in the highest league since.
Prior to that, Spurs were relegated in 1935 and spent a few decades in the second tier, finally winning promotion to the elite by winning Division 2 in 1950.
All times Tottenham have been relegated in club history
Year
Finish
Result
Returned to Division 1
1976/77
22nd (Division 1)
Relegated to Division 2
1978 (1 season)
1934/35
22nd (Division 1)
Relegated to Division 2
1950 (8 seasons)*
1927/28
21st (Division 1)
Relegated to Division 2
1933 (5 seasons)
1914/15
20th (Division 1)
Relegated to Division 2
1920 (1 season)*
* There was no league football in England from 1940-1946 due to World War II. * There was no league football in England from 1916-1919 due to World War I.
What is Tottenham's worst Premier League finish?
Since the beginning of the Premier League era, Spurs' poorest season came under Postecoglou in 2024/25, when they finished in 17th place in the table, with 38 points from 38 games.
They were comfortably clear of the relegation places on points, but their form was nonetheless wretched throughout the campaign. The exception of course was in the Europa League: they won the final 1-0 against Manchester United in Bilbao to end a wait of 17 years for a major trophy.
Prior to that, their lowest-ever finish in a Premier League season was 15th. That was in 1993/94, the second-ever Premier League campaign.
It sounds astonishing to suggest a club of Tottenham's resources, who had a team in the Champions League final as recently as 2019 and are competing in this season's Round of 16, could actually drop out of the Premier League.
Yet that is a reality that they could be facing if they do not arrest their poor form quickly.
Spurs have 29 points from their first 26 games of 2025/26, leaving them in 16th place with a four-point cushion to the drop zone. The difference between this season and last is that one of the bottom three have a realistic chance of climbing out of trouble.
Wolves look to be doomed to the drop and Burnley are eight points from safety, but West Ham United are just two points behind Nottingham Forest and four behind Spurs. What's more, the Hammers have only lost one of their most recent five league games and will be confident in their chances of getting out of the bottom three.
Spurs also have a daunting run of fixtures coming up. After three straight losses to Arsenal, Fulham and Crystal Palace, they now face Liverpool following the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie with Atletico Madrid.
Tottenham remaining Premier League fixtures
Tottenham have a relatively elementary run-in to the 2025/26 Premier League season.
They face 'big six' clubs just twice from the start of March through the final two months of the campaign, with visits to Liverpool on March 15 and Chelsea on May 17.
Six of their final 10 matches are to come against clubs in the bottom half of the standings as of March 1, with games against fellow relegation candidates Nottingham Forest, Wolves, and Leeds United the most critical of the matches remaining.
Feb 20, 2026; Peoria, Arizona, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher Cooper Criswell (18) throws to San Diego Padres center fielder Jackson Merrill (3) in the third inning during a Spring Training game at Peoria Sports Complex. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images
The warm, 80 degree weather in Peoria had the ball jumping off Padres shillelaghs Thursday afternoon against the Seattle Mariners. San Diego hung 17 runs on the board through the contests' first three innings, receiving home runs from eight different position players. Among the notable names to go yard in the 27-6 onslaught victory were center fielder Jackson Merrill, Jake Cronenworth, Freddy Fermin, Miguel Andujar, and KBO newcomer Sung-Mun Song, who made his first start at shortstop this spring.
On the mound, Walker Buehler successfully completed three frames in his Padres debut. The right-hander struck out four batters while surrendering two earned runs. Perhaps the most encouraging news, however, was what Buehler shared after his first Cactus League start:
“About four weeks ago, my elbow just stopped hurting, and so that’s a new one for me,” Buehler said. “Things have kind of ticked up from there," he added.
The former Cy Young contender seems to be feeling as good as he's felt in quite awhile. Trying to earn the final spot in San Diego's starting rotation, Buehler took a big step in perhaps doing so on Thursday.
Walker Buehler reflects on his first Cactus League outing with the Padres, today’s pitch usage, and working with the team’s pitching coaches. pic.twitter.com/6r1ERlIIlZ
Buehler wasn't the only Padres hurler who made strides this week. San Diego native Joe Musgrove returned to game action for the first time since undergoing Tommy John surgery in October 2024. Facing Great Britain's WBC squad in an exhibition game, the tall right-hander touched 95 mph on his fastball while showing impressive tilt on his breaking pitches.
He picked up three strikeouts, including one of Yankees infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. In the end, Musgrove cited feeling healthy, which bodes well heading into the latter portion of spring camp.
Joe Musgrove shared his thoughts on his first outing of the spring after missing all of the 2025 season: pic.twitter.com/4WZGDGRxXZ
The Padres began spring roster cuts on Thursday afternoon that included notable Minor League names such as righty reliever Francis Peña, first baseman Romeo Sanabria, and starting pitcher Miguel Mendez.
Mendez, who some consider a future piece of San Diego's Major League starting rotation, was reassigned to Double-A San Antonio. The hard-throwing right-hander was recently ranked as the organization's no. 3 prospect. He pitched to a 3.22 ERA last season with 118 strikeouts and a .209 BAA in 21 Minor League starts.
Per MLB.com's prospect profiles, Mendez's big league ETA is projected for this season. Depending on his numbers and the state of the Padres rotation later this year, expect to see his name in discussions for a call up to The Show.
What happened to Shea Lacey since his sending off against Brighton in the FA Cup has been the subject of questions sent in via our 'Ask about Manchester United' form - and it's a good question.
Lacey scored six goals in three Premier League 2 appearances following that FA Cup tie.
He was also on the bench for the Premier League home game against Fulham on 1 February, but didn't come on, presumably because Marco Silva's side mounted a late fightback.
However, he has not been involved in any game, at any level, since 2 February and hasn't featured in any of the training images the club put out a couple of times a week.
There have been suggestions Lacey has been suffering from a minor calf complaint, although United have not confirmed - or denied - that officially.
Lacey has suffered so much with injury in the past couple of years, United will not want to take any chances. It will be interesting to see if he is named in any England age-group squads for the forthcoming internationals.
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“LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” Rich Paul told ESPN. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we've had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career.”
The Lakers have looked like a strong team at times, but at other moments they still appear to be searching for answers. On Thursday night, James went down with an injury after taking a hard fall during a game against the Denver Nuggets.
“Another record-setting night for LeBron James ended painfully, as he hurt his elbow in a hard fall during the fourth quarter of the Los Angeles Lakers' game against the Denver Nuggets. James drove and hit a layup with just over 4 minutes to go, but he came down hard and immediately grasped at his elbow,” Jace Evans wrote for USA Today.
After the game, James was asked why the referees did not call a foul on Nikola Jokic during the play that led to his injury. James responded with a NSFW rant.
“It’s the same s—. ‘Marginal.’ It’s the same s—. It’s, it’s, it’s … whatever. That’s all they keep saying is, ‘marginal.’ I’m so f—ing tired of that word,” James told the media.
Some of that frustration could stem from losing a close game with major playoff implications. The Lakers are entering a difficult stretch in their schedule, and they are well aware of what is at stake.
James’ reaction could be an early sign of just how crucial the next five games are for the Lakers. It truly is make-or-break time for Los Angeles, and if they are not careful, the situation could quickly become dangerous.
Lakers star Luka Doncic reacts at the end of a 120-113 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Thursday night. (David Zalubowski / Associated Press)
Lakers star Luka Doncic is one technical away from receiving an automatic one-game suspension after he picked up his 15th technical of the season in a 120-113 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Thursday night.
Doncic, who had 27 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists, was charged with a technical with 5:43 left in the second quarter.
“Just because I yelled at him, I guess. That's what he said,” said Doncic about his interaction with referee Ed Malloy. “But I heard three other players say the exact same sentence and didn't get a tech. And that's my problem, you know, I was trying not to talk at all. This is the first thing I said — no warning or nothing."
Malloy said after the game that Doncic was issued a technical for "using profanity directed towards a referee."
The NBA automatically suspends any player who receives 16 technical fouls during a season. Doncic has reached the threshold twice in his career, but the NBA rescinded the 16th technical each time, allowing him to avoid suspension.
Doncic wasn't making any guarantees about whether he'll be able to avoid another technical.
Nottingham Forest's hard work against Manchester City on Wednesday has put the fans on their side, says former Reds defender Brian Laws.
Forest secured a point in a 2-2 draw at Etihad Stadium and, in a season full of uncertainty over managerial appointments and Premier League survival, Laws thinks the supporters are starting to reconnect with the club.
"What all the Forest fans really want is an honest day's work from the players and consistency," Laws told BBC Radio Nottingham.
"Give your all. You can't kid the supporters - they know when you've put a shift in and when you've worked hard, and they know when you've been up for the game. And the players were up for the game, there was no question about it and the fans showed their appreciation.
"It's something the fans crave and when you don't give it, they'll let you know, and I think that's fair because it hasn't been frequent or consistent enough this year.
"But that connection with the fans is so important at this stage of the season. Particularly with where we are [in the table], we're going to need every one of them.
"As long as the players give that effort and commitment, you'll have the fans with you all the way."
Listen to more from Laws on the Shut Up And Show More Football Podcast on BBC Sounds here
ATLATNA — The Savannah State University men’s basketball team’s bid to defend it’s SIAC Conference championship ended in the quarterfinal round of this year’s tournament after a last-second shot was no good.
With Savannah State trailing 48-47 with 12 seconds remaining, Windsor Forest alum Javonte Landy’s drove to the basket through contact and missed the potential shot.
The Tigers were unable to foul to stop the clock before time expired.
The loss to Miles marks the first time they have beaten Savannah State this season. In the previous two matchups, Savannah State won by 11 points.
Savannah State finishes the season 16-12 overall.
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Crowley is retained at fly-half for Ireland's home game with Wales after kicking 17 points against England [Getty Images]
From Stuart McCloskey's takedown of Marcus Smith to the coaching box's delirious celebrations, Ireland's resounding win over England conjured a series of enduring images.
McCloskey, who battered England with his buccaneering carries, was an obvious poster boy for the win. As were Rob Baloucoune, whose work at both ends of the field was lauded by head coach Andy Farrell, and Jamison Gibson-Park, who pulled the strings ingeniously in the record 42-21 win.
Given the intense scrutiny he has faced as one of the two key actors in Ireland's fly-half debate, the headline-hogging endeavours of his team-mates would have suited Jack Crowley just fine.
Reinstated to the Ireland line-up for the England game following Sam Prendergast's indifferent start to the Six Nations, Crowley re-established himself as Ireland's first-choice 10 with a quietly confident display.
His 2024 Six Nations-winning half-back partnership with Gibson-Park restored, Crowley ensured the Irish attack ran smoothly and kicked 17 points to help steer Ireland to a famous Twickenham triumph.
It was an important game for Crowley. Having played second fiddle to Prendergast for much of last year's Six Nations, his Munster form elevated him back to the line-up for Ireland's Chicago reunion with the All Blacks in November.
He kept his place for the following week's win over Japan but Prendergast was entrusted from the start for the last two November games - against Australia and South Africa - and the first two Six Nations fixtures with France and Italy.
And while Crowley made a significant impact off the bench against Italy, his day ended with a missed touch-finder that wrecked his side's hopes of securing a bonus point.
Even with that, Crowley did not feel the England game was about "proving my point".
"Being honest, no [there was no extra pressure]," said the 26-year-old, who is retained at fly-half for Friday's game against Wales in Dublin (20:10 GMT).
"It comes back to process so it's about approaching the game with doing the right thing, simplifying things and seeing the play in front of you and making the right call."
The 2024 Six Nations-winning half-back partnership of Crowley and Gibson-Park helped the Irish attack fire against England [Getty Images]
The online debate surrounding Crowley and Prendergast moved Farrell to launch an impassioned plea for "keyboard warriors" to "cop on" following the Italy win.
It has been a constant discussion point ever since a then 21-year-old Prendergast was elevated to the starting line-up during the 2024 autumn internationals. That one plays for Leinster and the other Munster has only fanned the flames.
Having been through his own battle for the shirt with Ronan O'Gara, Johnny Sexton - now an Ireland assistant coach - last year revealed he told Crowley and Prendergast to delete their social media accounts.
But while online commentary had Farrell visibly irritated a few weeks ago, Crowley appeared unperturbed when the topic was raised before the Wales match.
"It is [easy] if you just if you just put it away, don't engage with it," he said.
"It's like anything. You have a choice and you can choose to not engage. You can choose to engage. And it's just like creating good habits day to day, like with your nutrition or diet or training performance, you make a choice and you commit to it."
Social media comments are one thing but Crowley understands that the atmosphere during games can affect players too.
Against England, his opposite number George Ford was ironically cheered for finding touch after missing two earlier efforts.
"I think pre-empting situations where you're going to be under pressure, whether it's in play or whether it's your individual technique," he said when asked how to deal with a hostile environment.
"For us it might be kicking, but for line-out throwers, it might be the pressure that they could be getting in hostile environments. So during the week, just feeling what it might be like to be under a little bit of pressure.
"Breath works for me, a lot of breath works, bring it back to what's in your control and I think having a good technique that needs to be robust no matter what situation it is."
With the shirt in his possession once more, the onus is now on Crowley to continue his solid form heading into a World Cup year.
For him, that means sticking to his process of trying to simplify in-game decisions in the face of the uncertainty and chaos that Test rugby brings.
"I'm not focusing too much on what's going well and what's not going well [in his own game], I'm just focusing on how I can bring my best day to day.
"Come gameday, who knows what could be thrown our way so I'm trying to stay in the present, whatever skillset is required of me then and there, that's what I'll be focusing on."
Wolves boss Rob Edwards might have been thinking his bottom-of-the-table Premier League side have a chance of 'the great escape' after they beat Liverpool on Tuesday.
So, seeing two of the three teams immediately above them, West Ham and Nottingham Forest, pick up points on Wednesday was a shame for Wolves, just when they had given themselves that little bit of hope.
Still, their recent results and performances have been much improved. Edwards has given Wolves fans something to smile about, and he will want to maintain that positivity here.
This is a big game for Liverpool boss Arne Slot, too.
The FA Cup could be important for him this season, so he cannot just focus on Tuesday's last-16 trip to Galatasaray in the Champions League.
After three successive Premier League wins, Tuesday's loss was another stumble for Slot's side in the race for the top four.
With the heat that is around him, I don't think Slot is in a position where he can afford to play a weakened side here - he has to go strong to try to avoid another shock result.
I still think we will see another surprise, though.
Wolves are going to throw everything at Liverpool. They are still going down, but can they make it to Wembley too?
With the Washington Nationals approaching the two week mark in spring training and two roster cuts later, manager Blake Butera is putting the pieces together for his first season with the organization.
Maybe one of the bigger questions that remains unanswered is how the Nationals’ rotation will shake out ahead of Opening Day, along with who will end up being tabbed as the starter when the Nationals take the field to face the Chicago Cubs for the opener on March 26. But in traditional fashion, manager Blake Butera pointed back to his experience in the Rays’ organization to reiterate that the chances things stay the same after Opening Day are slim with a chance to remain “open minded.”
“I don’t know that anything will be traditional, so to speak, from start to finish. I think we're always going to be open minded and look for ways to win on the margins, whether that be an opener, whether it be, mixing a lineup up, whether it be, pinch running in certain situations,” Butera said during his appearance on 106.7 on Wednesday. “We're always going to look for the best opportunity to win a game, win an inning, win a series.”
Find out what Cade Cavalli's been working on to improve his arsenal, so long as his mustache doesn't distract you. 😂 pic.twitter.com/JKDgGxdcLz
For now, analyzing the makeup of the 2026 rotation is the biggest question with no “restrictions” on the group.
Josiah Gray made his first appearance in nearly two years when he took the mound on March 2 against the Houston Astros, pitching nearly two innings and allowing two hits in an eventual 2-2 tie.
“The biggest thing for Jojo is just making sure he's healthy. He got out there and pitched on the mound our last game, and it was just fun to see him out there,” Butera said of Gray. “The stuff was really good. He was having a blast with a big smile on his face and just, I think he may [have] mentioned [he] forgot what that felt like. It'd been a while since he had gotten to pitching a game and pitching a game where he felt healthy.”
Miles Mikolas took the mound on Thursday for his second appearance with the Nationals for what ended up being a shaky performance, allowing three runs including a two-run shot. He also tossed three strikeouts in his three innings as he remains an Opening Day candidate.
Mets Exit Velo’s off Miles Mikolas in the 1st inning today:
Mike Tauchman — 106.8 (2B) Jorge Polanco — 91.7 (Groundout) Bo Bichette — 106.1 (1B) Brett Baty — 99.8 (HR) Jose Rojas — 92.7 (Groundout)pic.twitter.com/sTCsuQN3tQ
Foster Griffin, meanwhile, made his debut with the team in Wednesday’s exhibition 5-1 win over Venezuela in an encouraging performance. Butera also pointed to Brad Lord, Mitchell Parker and Jake Eder as other strong candidates to fill the rotation, but the development of Cade Cavalli once again drew praise.
“Cade’s looked unbelievable. His body is unbelievable right now. He's putting in a ton of work this offseason. He's healthy. I mean, he just looks like a frontline starter for you and a guy that you want in your rotation, day in and day out.”
BOTTOM LINE: Dallas comes into the matchup with Boston as losers of five games in a row.
The Celtics are 20-10 in home games. Boston is fifth in the NBA with 12.9 offensive rebounds per game led by Neemias Queta averaging 3.0 offensive boards.
The Mavericks are 7-22 on the road. Dallas is 5-7 in one-possession games.
The Celtics average 114.5 points per game, 3.1 fewer points than the 117.6 the Mavericks give up. The Mavericks are shooting 47.0% from the field, 2.9% higher than the 44.1% the Celtics' opponents have shot this season.
The teams square off for the second time this season. The Celtics won 110-100 in the last matchup on Feb. 4. Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 33 points, and Cooper Flagg led the Mavericks with 36 points.
TOP PERFORMERS: Derrick White is shooting 39.2% and averaging 17.3 points for the Celtics. Brown is averaging 20.3 points over the last 10 games.
Flagg is averaging 20.3 points, 6.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists for the Mavericks. Naji Marshall is averaging 14.9 points over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Celtics: 7-3, averaging 108.5 points, 50.2 rebounds, 27.2 assists, 5.5 steals and 6.0 blocks per game while shooting 45.4% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 100.7 points per game.
Mavericks: 2-8, averaging 110.0 points, 42.7 rebounds, 23.0 assists, 6.7 steals and 3.6 blocks per game while shooting 47.2% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 119.6 points.
INJURIES: Celtics: Jayson Tatum: day to day (achilles).
Mavericks: Brandon Williams: day to day (quadriceps), Dereck Lively II: out for season (foot), Kyrie Irving: out for season (knee), Marvin Bagley III: day to day (neck).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
Golden State Warriors (32-30, eighth in the Western Conference) vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (49-15, first in the Western Conference)
Oklahoma City; Saturday, 8:30 p.m. EST
BOTTOM LINE: Oklahoma City will try to earn its 50th win of the season when the Thunder play the Golden State Warriors.
The Thunder are 34-9 in conference matchups. Oklahoma City has a 3-6 record in games decided by 3 points or fewer.
The Warriors are 22-19 in conference matchups. Golden State is third in the league with 29.2 assists per game led by Draymond Green averaging 5.2.
The Thunder average 118.9 points per game, 4.8 more points than the 114.1 the Warriors allow. The Warriors are shooting 46.1% from the field, 2.5% higher than the 43.6% the Thunder's opponents have shot this season.
The teams square off for the fourth time this season. The Thunder won the last meeting 131-94 on Jan. 3. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 30 points to help lead the Thunder to the win.
TOP PERFORMERS: Cason Wallace is scoring 8.9 points per game and averaging 3.2 rebounds for the Thunder. Isaiah Joe is averaging 14.2 points and 3.1 rebounds over the last 10 games.
Green is averaging 8.4 points, 5.6 rebounds and 5.2 assists for the Warriors. Brandin Podziemski is averaging 16.7 points over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Thunder: 8-2, averaging 113.3 points, 45.2 rebounds, 25.3 assists, 9.0 steals and 4.6 blocks per game while shooting 45.5% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 106.5 points per game.
Warriors: 4-6, averaging 112.3 points, 43.5 rebounds, 31.5 assists, 9.9 steals and 3.4 blocks per game while shooting 46.3% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 116.3 points.
INJURIES: Thunder: Alex Caruso: day to day (hip), Ajay Mitchell: day to day (abdomen), Branden Carlson: day to day (back), Jalen Williams: out (hamstring), Thomas Sorber: out for season (knee), Isaiah Hartenstein: day to day (calf).
Warriors: Kristaps Porzingis: day to day (illness), Jimmy Butler III: out for season (knee), Gary Payton II: day to day (ankle), Stephen Curry: out (knee), Moses Moody: day to day (wrist), Seth Curry: day to day (back), Will Richard: day to day (ankle).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
BOTTOM LINE: The Phoenix Suns host the New Orleans Pelicans in Western Conference action Friday.
The Suns are 24-18 against Western Conference opponents. Phoenix ranks last in the Western Conference scoring 43.5 points per game in the paint.
The Pelicans are 13-28 in Western Conference play. New Orleans is 10-20 in games decided by at least 10 points.
The Suns are shooting 45.2% from the field this season, 2.5 percentage points lower than the 47.7% the Pelicans allow to opponents. The Pelicans average 11.2 made 3-pointers per game this season, 0.8 fewer makes per game than the Suns allow.
The teams square off for the fourth time this season. The Suns won the last matchup 123-114 on Dec. 28. Devin Booker scored 20 points to help lead the Suns to the win.
TOP PERFORMERS: Collin Gillespie is averaging 13.5 points and 4.8 assists for the Suns. Jalen Green is averaging 12.9 points over the last 10 games.
Trey Murphy III is averaging 21.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.5 steals for the Pelicans. Saddiq Bey is averaging 2.7 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Suns: 4-6, averaging 102.7 points, 46.0 rebounds, 23.3 assists, 8.3 steals and 3.6 blocks per game while shooting 40.9% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 109.4 points per game.
Pelicans: 6-4, averaging 118.3 points, 45.6 rebounds, 27.1 assists, 8.3 steals and 6.7 blocks per game while shooting 48.0% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 116.9 points.
INJURIES: Suns: Jordan Goodwin: out (calf), Dillon Brooks: out (hand), Mark Williams: out (foot).
Pelicans: Dejounte Murray: day to day (reconditioning).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
Orlando Magic (33-28, seventh in the Eastern Conference) vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (40-23, third in the Western Conference)
Minneapolis; Saturday, 3 p.m. EST
BOTTOM LINE: Minnesota is looking to keep its five-game win streak alive when the Timberwolves take on Orlando.
The Timberwolves are 22-11 on their home court. Minnesota is seventh in the Western Conference with 50.2 points per game in the paint led by Julius Randle averaging 10.3.
The Magic are 13-16 in road games. Orlando is ninth in the Eastern Conference scoring 114.8 points per game and is shooting 46.2%.
The Timberwolves average 14.1 made 3-pointers per game this season, 2.5 more made shots on average than the 11.6 per game the Magic give up. The Magic are shooting 46.2% from the field, 0.1% lower than the 46.3% the Timberwolves' opponents have shot this season.
TOP PERFORMERS: Randle is averaging 21.5 points, 6.9 rebounds and 5.3 assists for the Timberwolves. Anthony Edwards is averaging 3.9 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
Paolo Banchero is scoring 22.0 points per game with 8.5 rebounds and 5.0 assists for the Magic. Desmond Bane is averaging 25.1 points and 3.9 rebounds while shooting 59.1% over the past 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Timberwolves: 8-2, averaging 116.4 points, 43.4 rebounds, 25.4 assists, 9.7 steals and 5.8 blocks per game while shooting 50.3% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 112.0 points per game.
Magic: 6-4, averaging 112.9 points, 42.4 rebounds, 27.0 assists, 9.1 steals and 5.2 blocks per game while shooting 45.9% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 108.2 points.
INJURIES: Timberwolves: Joe Ingles: day to day (personal).
Magic: Franz Wagner: out (ankle), Jonathan Isaac: day to day (knee), Colin Castleton: out (thumb).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
BOTTOM LINE: Indiana comes into the matchup against Los Angeles as losers of seven games in a row.
The Lakers are 18-12 on their home court. Los Angeles is fifth in the Western Conference with 51.5 points per game in the paint led by LeBron James averaging 11.2.
The Pacers are 5-25 on the road. Indiana is 6-5 in games decided by less than 4 points.
The Lakers are shooting 49.9% from the field this season, 1.0 percentage point higher than the 48.9% the Pacers allow to opponents. The Pacers' 45.0% shooting percentage from the field this season is 3.5 percentage points lower than the Lakers have given up to their opponents (48.5%).
TOP PERFORMERS: Luka Doncic is averaging 32.3 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.6 assists for the Lakers. James is averaging 18.0 points over the last 10 games.
Pascal Siakam is averaging 24 points, 6.7 rebounds and 3.9 assists for the Pacers. Micah Potter is averaging 2.2 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Lakers: 5-5, averaging 114.5 points, 39.1 rebounds, 27.3 assists, 8.4 steals and 5.1 blocks per game while shooting 49.6% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 112.2 points per game.
Pacers: 2-8, averaging 114.5 points, 40.1 rebounds, 28.6 assists, 7.2 steals and 3.8 blocks per game while shooting 46.7% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 126.6 points.
INJURIES: Lakers: LeBron James: day to day (elbow), Maxi Kleber: day to day (back), Deandre Ayton: day to day (knee).
Pacers: Pascal Siakam: day to day (wrist), Andrew Nembhard: day to day (back), Johnny Furphy: out for season (knee), Aaron Nesmith: day to day (ankle), Ivica Zubac: out (ankle), Tyrese Haliburton: out for season (achilles).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
Philadelphia 76ers (34-28, sixth in the Eastern Conference) vs. Atlanta Hawks (32-31, 10th in the Eastern Conference)
Atlanta; Saturday, 6 p.m. EST
BOTTOM LINE: Atlanta hosts Philadelphia aiming to extend its four-game home winning streak.
The Hawks have gone 18-21 against Eastern Conference teams. Atlanta ranks third in the Eastern Conference with 51.8 points per game in the paint led by Jalen Johnson averaging 12.3.
The 76ers are 21-20 against conference opponents. Philadelphia ranks sixth in the Eastern Conference with 16.5 fast break points per game led by Tyrese Maxey averaging 5.6.
The Hawks average 14.5 made 3-pointers per game this season, 1.3 more made shots on average than the 13.2 per game the 76ers give up. The 76ers average 115.8 points per game, 1.5 fewer than the 117.3 the Hawks allow to opponents.
The teams meet for the fourth time this season. The Hawks won 117-107 in the last matchup on Feb. 20.
TOP PERFORMERS: Johnson is shooting 49.1% and averaging 22.7 points for the Hawks. Onyeka Okongwu is averaging 2.6 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
Maxey is averaging 28.9 points, 6.7 assists and two steals for the 76ers. VJ Edgecombe is averaging 15.4 points and 5.5 rebounds over the past 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Hawks: 6-4, averaging 118.2 points, 47.8 rebounds, 28.8 assists, 9.9 steals and 4.7 blocks per game while shooting 45.6% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 112.1 points per game.
76ers: 4-6, averaging 111.4 points, 41.6 rebounds, 22.6 assists, 10.3 steals and 5.7 blocks per game while shooting 43.9% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 120.2 points.
INJURIES: Hawks: Jonathan Kuminga: day to day (knee).
76ers: Johni Broome: out (knee), Joel Embiid: out (oblique), VJ Edgecombe: day to day (back), Kelly Oubre Jr.: day to day (illness).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
BOTTOM LINE: San Antonio will try to keep its six-game home win streak intact when the Spurs play Los Angeles.
The Spurs are 26-13 against Western Conference opponents. San Antonio ranks third in the Western Conference with 16.5 fast break points per game led by Stephon Castle averaging 2.9.
The Clippers are 19-18 in Western Conference play. Los Angeles ranks fourth in the Western Conference shooting 36.1% from 3-point range.
The 118.2 points per game the Spurs average are 6.2 more points than the Clippers give up (112.0). The Clippers are shooting 48.1% from the field, 3.1% higher than the 45.0% the Spurs' opponents have shot this season.
TOP PERFORMERS: Victor Wembanyama is averaging 23.7 points, 11.2 rebounds and three blocks for the Spurs. Devin Vassell is averaging 3.2 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
Kris Dunn is averaging eight points, 3.6 assists and 1.5 steals for the Clippers. Kawhi Leonard is averaging 25.8 points and 6.3 rebounds while shooting 49.7% over the past 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Spurs: 9-1, averaging 121.3 points, 45.9 rebounds, 31.2 assists, 8.5 steals and 7.2 blocks per game while shooting 49.8% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 106.8 points per game.
Clippers: 6-4, averaging 113.0 points, 42.1 rebounds, 23.6 assists, 9.6 steals and 5.5 blocks per game while shooting 48.9% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 106.9 points.
INJURIES: Spurs: David Jones Garcia: out for season (ankle), Harrison Barnes: day to day (ankle), Mason Plumlee: day to day (reconditioning).
Clippers: Yanic Konan Niederhauser: out for season (foot), Bradley Beal: out for season (hip), John Collins: out (arm), Darius Garland: out (toe).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
Bournemouth were ultimately reliant on Rayan himself to make his move to England happen.
The 19-year-old forward has impressed club officials since arriving at Vitality Stadium in a £24.7m deal from Vasco da Gama.
Eye-catching dribbles and shots have produced two goals and an assist in his first six games, meaning he is delivering output beyond expectations given he had not had a pre-season.
However, the move may not have gone through had it not been for the total buy-in of Rayan and his representatives.
Russian giants Zenit St Petersburg and clubs in Saudi Arabia were ready to rival Bournemouth in January, while English clubs in the Champions League wanted him to wait until the summer.
Yet, Rayan simply wanted to play regular football and avoid the fate of compatriots Endrick and Vitor Roque, who both needed to leave Real Madrid and Barcelona respectively to secure regular minutes during the formative years of their careers.
That is why Bournemouth appealed, with Rayan refusing alternative options in a bid to play regularly after Antoine Semenyo departed for Manchester City in January.
There remains cautious optimism on the south coast. Bournemouth's scouting suggested Rayan would be physically capable of adapting to the Premier League and, while he does not speak English, he has enough Spanish to communicate with manager Andoni Iraola.
The deal also includes a 100m euro (£86.9m) release clause that can be activated at any time, highlighting the possibility that he could leave if he realises his potential. However, Bournemouth would still expect to make a substantial profit after avoiding the inclusion of a sell-on clause.
Rayan, though, is not expected to push for a quick exit as he looks to build his career in Europe through a Bournemouth pathway that is becoming increasingly attractive to young players.
Peter Crouch names the two Chelsea players he would pay to go and watch
Former Liverpool striker Peter Crouch has said that he would pay money to go and watch Joao Pedro and Cole Palmer play.
I guess it’s a big compliment due to the fact that he’s not a Chelsea man. Most ‘Chelsea men’ pay to watch these two play every week, so it’s not even such a huge thing.
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But Crouchy saying really does mean something, and it also must mean that these two players are both doing something right at the moment.
What Crouch said
Cole Palmer celebrates scoring against Aston Villa. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
“I would pay money to watch them, Joao Pedro and Cole Palmer.”
Pedro has been on fire recently, whilst Palmer has struggled with his form a bit this season. But the two of them together seem to be creating something nice, and Palmer showed signs of being back to his best in the game against Aston Villa earlier this week.
In other news today…
Chelsea winger Alejandro Garnacho’s efforts in the 4-1 win away at Aston Villa on Wednesday evening in the Premier Leagueearned a lot of praisefrom Liam Rosenior, and may have earned him a start this Saturday too as they prepare to take on Wrexham in the 5th round of the FA Cup.
Blues striker Joao Pedro also spoke after that same game earlier this week in pretty emotional terms about how happy we was to be at Chelsea.
Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:
England’s young batter Jacob Bethell delivered a stunning performance in the T20 World Cup 2026 semi final against the India national cricket team at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. Although England eventually lost the match by seven runs, Bethell’s sensational century turned the chase into a thrilling contest and etched his name in the record books.
Fastest 100s in T20 WC (by balls taken)
33 - Finn Allen vs SA, Kolkata, 2026 SF
45 - Jacob Bethell vs IND, Mumbai WS, 2026
47 - Chris Gayle vs ENG, Mumbai WS, 2016
50 - Chris Gayle vs SA, Johannesburg, 2007
50 - Harry Brook vs PAK, Pallekele, 2026
Chasing a massive target of 254, Bethell produced a fearless knock of 105 from just 48 balls. The left hander attacked from the start and kept England in the hunt with a series of powerful strokes. His innings stood out as the highlight of England’s chase as the team finished on 246 for seven.
The century was historic for multiple reasons. Bethell registered the fastest hundred by an England batter in T20 World Cup history. His fifty also came in just 19 balls, which is the joint fastest half century in T20 World Cup knockout matches. Finn Allen had earlier reached the same milestone in 19 balls against South Africa in the first semi final of the tournament.
The 19 ball fifty also became the fastest by an England player in T20 World Cups, surpassing the previous record held by Will Jacks, who had reached a half century in 21 balls earlier in the competition against Italy.
Despite Bethell’s extraordinary effort, England could not complete the chase. Earlier in the evening, India had posted a massive 253 on the board. Sanju Samson led the charge with a blistering 89 from 42 balls, while Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma also chipped in with quick runs.
India’s bowlers held their nerve in the final stages of the chase. Hardik Pandya picked up two wickets, while Jasprit Bumrah delivered a disciplined spell, finishing with figures of 1 for 33.
The match also created history with the combined total of 499 runs becoming the second highest match aggregate in men’s T20 internationals. Despite ending on the losing side, Bethell’s record breaking century will be remembered as one of the most explosive knocks of the tournament and the fastest ever by an England batter in a T20 World Cup.
Real Madrid lock in two targets to spend the first €100 million next summer
Given the current situation of Real Madrid’s squad, it is no surprise that the club are planning wholesale changes in the summer.
The team, after all, is missing some major connective pieces on the field to transform them into a single cohesive unit, primarily in defence and midfield.
Florentino Perez and Co. are aware of the shortcomings of the current squad and are willing to invest heavily in the summer to turn the situation around.
They have, on that front, identified several targets across the park with profiles they deem optimal.
The top 2 targets
As confirmed by Alberto Pereiro in a recent update, Real Madrid have decided on which players form their absolute priority for the summer and are non-negotiable signings.
Real Madrid are interested in Nico Schlotterbeck. (Photo by Boris Streubel/Getty Images)
The first €100 million Los Blancos spend in June will indeed be to reinforce the centre-back and midfield departments with Nico Schlotterbeck and Rodri eyes as the two big fish.
The aforementioned budget will be split for the two players and Real Madrid will look to sign them independent of any departures from the current squad.
Schlotterbeck is expected to be available for around €40 million, while Rodri will be harder to steal.
Any further signings beyond the German-Spanish duo, however, will revolve around player sales from the current squad, both who leave and how much of a fee Real Madrid makes from the move.
Should the club make a massive sale in June, a third big-name signing cannot be ruled out. If not, the remaining transfers may be of a lower profile but will be directed to fill any remaining lacunae in the side.
The summer, needless to say, is going to be massive for the team’s short and long-term projects.
Barcelona hold ‘initial talks’ to sign rising Bundesliga centre-back
Barcelona are already planning for the next transfer window as the club looks to strengthen the squad for Hansi Flick.
With the club focused on building a balanced team capable of competing at the highest level, the Catalan giants are reportedly studying several options to improve their defensive depth.
According to a major update from journalist Florian Plettenberg of Sky Germany, Barcelona are planning to sign a new centre-back next summer.
One of the players currently on the club’s radar is highly rated defender Luka Vuskovic, who has been attracting attention with his performances this season.
The young defender is currently playing on loan at Hamburger SV, where he has managed to establish himself as one of the most promising talents in the squad.
Despite his strong displays in Germany, his long-term future remains tied to Tottenham Hotspur, the club from which he is on loan.
Talks have been initiated
According to the report, Barcelona have already started exploring the situation surrounding the player and have held initial talks with people close to him.
The club’s sporting department is said to be considering him as one of the potential defensive reinforcements that could arrive during the summer transfer window.
Barcelona are interested in signing Luka Vuskovic. (Photo by Selim Sudheimer/Getty Images)
For Hamburg, however, keeping the defender beyond this campaign is not an option.
This is because the Bundesliga club is aware that the player’s future is already decided due to the agreement in place with Tottenham.
Hamburg’s Director of Professional Football, Claus Costa, addressed the situation clearly while speaking about the defender’s future.
“Contractually, there’s no chance he’ll stay. It’s purely a loan, and we have no way to tie Luka to HSV long-term,” he said.
A strong season
On the pitch, the 19-year-old has shown why he is regarded as one of the most promising young defenders in Europe.
In 23 competitive appearances this season, Vuskovic has not only been solid defensively but has also contributed four goals, highlighting his threat in attacking situations.
He has been particularly impressive in aerial duels and physical battles, ranking among the most effective defenders in those aspects in Germany.
At the same time, his ability to play out from the back has drawn attention, as he regularly shows confidence and composure when building attacks from defence.
Dirk Kuyt scored 71 times for Liverpool and perhaps three of the most memorable came 15 years ago today in a 3-1 win over Manchester United at Anfield.
From a combined total of about six yards.
A versatile forward and tireless runner, the former Netherlands international was a cult hero on Merseyside even before his famous treble against the Reds' fiercest rivals, but he is forever immortalised by a sunny Sunday lunchtime in March 2011.
And he owed a lot of plaudits that day to the work of Luis Suarez.
Goal one
[Getty Images]
A mazy Luis Suarez dribble resulted in a stabbed pass across the face of goal and Kuyt was there to finish on the line.
Goal two
[Getty Images]
Suarez lifted a cross into the box which United winger Nani inadvertently headed back towards his own goal in an attempt to clear. The ball floated perfectly over the defence and in front of Edwin van der Sar in goal for Kuyt to stoop and head home.
Goal three
[Getty Images]
Suarez caused the chaos again by whipping a low free-kick towards goal that Van der Sar spilled and Kuyt was there to lift the rebound high into the net from near point-blank range to complete the most workmanlike hat-trick imaginable.
Tottenham lost £129m last year, according to the data, and the risk of even greater losses going forward if relegated is evident.
In some regards, Spurs' expenses would be reduced by dropping to the Championship. It has been widely reported, for example, that their players' contracts include a clause dropping their salaries by 50% in case of relegation.
If that clause is inserted into the contract of every player in the squad, then last year's record wage bill of £276m could be turned into £138m when the contractual period ticks over to the new season on 1 July.
But in a variety of other ways outgoings would remain the same, and potentially even rise.
One of the major financial issues clubs across the continent have been facing in recent years is rising operational costs, including things like utilities, transport, insurance, marketing, and administration.
Last year, Spurs had the third-highest operating costs in all of Europe, paying out £260m. That was a rise of £27m on the previous year, and the figure could rise again if essentials like energy prices continue to increase in the wider global economy.
Many of those day-to-day operating bills will not simply be reduced by playing at a lower level - the price for powering the stadium for a night match against Norwich City in the Championship is the same as doing so for Newcastle in the Premier League.
Spurs also had 877 full-time employees last year, an increase of 57 on the previous year, giving them the 12th-biggest workforce in Europe.
Barring a cull of that workforce, Spurs will have to keep paying top-tier European salaries while not even playing in the English top flight.
SOUTH BEND, IN - FEBRUARY 24: Notre Dame Fighting Irish Head Football Coach Marcus Freeman and his wife watch the on court action during a men's college basketball game between the Duke Blue Devils and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on February 24, 2026 at Purcell Pavilion in South Bend, IN. (Photo by Jeffrey Brown/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
In a SB Nation Reacts survey, we asked fans if they thought Marcus Freeman would still be coaching Notre Dame Football five years from now. Despite a good amount of comments that suggested most of the fan base believes he will likely move on to the NFL before then — the survey shows that fans are a bit more optimistic about it all. Half of those surveyed believe Marcus Freeman will be coaching the Irish in five years.
During Marcus Freeman’s appearance on Good Morning Football, he addressed his possible interest in the NFL and his talks over the off-season. While it may seem like typical coach speak, Marcus saying that he was just looking for more information has a fair amount of honesty to it when you think about the type of person and coach he is.
You can judge for yourself.
From @gmfb: Marcus Freeman, asked by @KyleBrandt about coaching in the NFL one day: “Never say never,” but adds he has “the best job in America” at Notre Dame right now. pic.twitter.com/xYjV8PpqLL
It felt easy in the heat of the moment for Notre Dame fans to confidently back the decision by the Irish to opt out of the bowl game. The reasoning was sound, but after weeks of hearing nonsense and generally just missing Notre Dame football, I wouldn’t blame some fans if they second guessed the decision.
But… It looks like those fans were very much in the minority.
Notre Dame Women’s Basketball
The Irish got a win in its first ACC Tournament game, but most fans don’t think they can win the thing.
Maybe Notre Dame is somewhere in the “other” and maybe they’re not. Winning the ACC Tournament after the season they had, however, would feel like a massive thing — and something that could set them up much better in the NCAA Tournament. And oh by the way — according to FanDuel Sportsbook, the Irish are sitting at +25000 to win it all (just in case you were curious).
Nov 11, 2025; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Washington Capitals defenseman John Carlson (74) skates with the puck against the Carolina Hurricanes during the first period at Lenovo Center.
The Anaheim Ducks bolstered their defensive corps for a playoff run on Thursday night, acquiring right-shot defenseman John Carlson from the Washington Capitals ahead of Friday’s noon Pacific trade deadline.
The Ducks sent a conditional first-round pick for the 2026 or 2026 draft and a 2027 third-round pick to the Capitals in exchange for the 36-year-old blue-liner.
The 6-foot-3, 220-pound defenseman is in the final year of an eight-year, $64 million contract with the Ducks retaining the full freight of his $8 million cap hit. Carlson had a 10-team no-trade clause, but Anaheim was not on that list.
Anaheim still has over $43 million in cap space entering tomorrow’s deadline.
Carlson won a Stanley Cup with the Capitals in 2018. He joins Alex Killorn as the only other Stanley Cup champions on the Ducks roster.
“John Carlson brings leadership, character, a high hockey IQ and a presence to our lineup,” Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek said in a statement. “We are very excited to add a Stanley Cup winner to complement our group and make a big push down the stretch.”
John Carlson’s all time ranking among Capitals defenseman:
Games Played: 1,143 (1st) Goals: 166 (1st) Points: 771 (1st by 297) Cups: 1 (T1)
Carlson is still a point-producer in his 17th NHL season–all with the Capitals–with 10 goals and 36 assists (only nine power play points--all assists) for Washington, which is just four points outside of the Eastern Conference playoff picture. Carlson also holds a plus-11 rating.
This season at five-on-five, Carlson was still first among Washington defensemen with a 52.38% expected goals share and a 53.38% shot attempt share. He was second on the Capitals in time-on-ice per game at 22:51.
Anaheim now boasts a veteran-laden right side of its defensive corps with the 36-year-old Carlson, 35-year-old Radko Gudas and 32-year-old Jacob Trouba. This balances out the left side of the Ducks blue line with 25-year-old Jackson LaCombe, 22-year-old Pavel Mintyukov and 22-year-old Olen Zellweger.
Right-handers Drew Helleson and Ian Moore, both 24 years old, are back into a roster spot battle for the seventh defensive spot. Moore is waiver exempt, which could mean a smooth send down to San Diego barring any further trades before Friday’s deadline.
The conditions on the first-round pick going to Washington come with some unique stipulations.
The pick is currently a 2026 first-round pick, and if the Ducks don’t qualify for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, it would become a 2027 first-round pick.
However, if the Ducks miss the playoffs, they still retain the option to choose whether they would transfer their 2026 pick or 2027 pick to Washington. Anaheim would not have to make that decision until the pick before theirs at this upcoming draft.
Ducks solidify the right side of their blue line and add a little spice to draft day decisions.
The 2026 Formula 1 season has arrived and the first stop on the 24-race calendar is the Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park in Melbourne, from 6-8 March.
Sunday's race starts at 04:00 GMT.
The biggest rule change in the sport's history will introduce new-look cars, engines - and possibly some fresh faces on the podium.
Following the opener in Australia, the campaign heads straight to the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai, 13-15 March, which is also the first sprint event of the year.
McLaren's Oscar Piastri topped practice on Friday ahead of the two Mercedes of Kimi Antonelli and George Russell, while Lewis Hamilton was fourth and his Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc was fifth.
Commentary of the race will be available across BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Sounds and the BBC Sport website and app.
You can also listen by asking most smart speakers to "play BBC Radio 5 Live" or "play BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra".
Make sure to listen to every episode of the Chequered Flag podcast. For the first time this year, the post-race show for every grand prix will be available to watch on BBC iPlayer and YouTube.
All times GMT.
Saturday, 7 March
Third practice: 01:30-02:30 (BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, BBC Sounds and smart speakers)
Qualifying: 05:00-06:00 (BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Sounds and smart speakers)
Sunday, 8 March
Race: 04:00 (BBC Radio 5 Live coverage from 03:30, BBC Sounds and smart speakers)
Last year, it was hot and sunny in Melbourne until we got to race day, when rain arrived and many drivers crashed out, including rookie Isack Hadjar on the parade lap.
This time, third practice and qualifying is predicted to be cloudy with a gentle breeze and highs of 21C, while Sunday's race, which starts at 3pm local time, will be sunny with temperatures getting up to 25C.
What's new in F1 2026?
Ferrari turned heads during pre-season testing in Bahrain when their rear wing flipped to an upside down position [Getty Images]
What will Formula 1 racing look like in 2026? That question will soon be answered when the lights go out in Melbourne this weekend.
With the sport heading into the unknown, here is a quick rundown of some key changes and new terms:
Cars - shorter, lighter, nimbler and more environmentally friendly
Engines - now a near 50-50 split between electric and internal combustion power - and use fully sustainable fuels
DRS overtaking aid gone - replaced by overtake mode, a burst of extra electrical power when a driver is within one second of the car ahead at a detection point, usually the final corner
Active aero - both the front and rear wings adjust angles to reduce drag on straights (straight mode) and increase downforce in corners (corner mode)
Recharge - cars can recover energy during braking, running the engine at high revs in corners, lifting off early and coasting at the end of straights and from not being at full throttle
Straight mode zones and Mueller & Schmitz corner
Laura Mueller and Hannah Schmitz are the first women to have an F1 circuit corner named after them [Getty Images]
With moveable aerodynamics here to stay, each circuit will now display 'straight mode zones' on its map, in place of the previous DRS detection points, to indicate when the active wings come into play.
At Albert Park, four DRS zones now become five straight mode zones, with the overtake mode activation and detection points marked at the end of the lap at Turns 13 and 14.
Also on Sunday, to celebrate International Women's Day, the right-hander of Turn Six will be dedicated to Haas race engineer Laura Mueller and head of race strategy at Red Bull Hannah Schmitz.
German Mueller is the first female race engineer in Formula 1 and is back for a second season working with Frenchman Esteban Ocon.
Briton Schmitz, meanwhile, has been a key figure in Red Bull's recent championship successes and her strategy calls have guided the team to many of their wins and podiums.
The Los Angeles Lakers had an opportunity on Thursday to not only win their fourth game in a row but also make a statement with a road victory over the Denver Nuggets. Their previous three wins came against inferior competition, and they have badly needed wins against teams with winning records.
This game started out on a bad note for the Lakers. They gave up the first 11 points of the game, and they would trail by as many as 13 points in the first quarter, as they couldn't hit the broad side of a barn offensively. A 12-0 run allowed them to come to within three points in the second quarter, but Denver quickly regained control and led 64-54 at halftime.
Los Angeles made a couple more runs in the second half, and it came to within one point with just over two minutes to go in the fourth quarter. But it wasn't able to string together enough stops during critical junctures, which resulted in a 120-113 loss.
The Lakers had more points in the paint, made 3-pointers, fast-break points and bench points while forcing 18 turnovers. But they were outrebounded by nine and attempted only 15 free throws compared to 31 for Denver. They were able to harass Nikola Jokić into nine turnovers, but he also registered a triple-double with 28 points, 12 rebounds and 13 assists.
Over the last three years, the Nuggets have simply had L.A.'s number, as this was their 15th win over LeBron James and crew in their last 19 attempts, including the playoffs.
Deandre Ayton: Incomplete
After logging five minutes of playing time, Ayton left the game and didn't return due to knee soreness. He went scoreless and had two rebounds before his exit.
Marcus Smart: C-plus
Smart wasn't able to slow down Jamal Murray in the first half, who scored 20 points during that time and 28 points on the night. Offensively, Smart committed four first-half turnovers, but he hit two 3-pointers in the third quarter to help get the Lakers back in the game.
He ended up playing 32 minutes and finished with nine points on 3-of-9 overall shooting and 3-of-6 from 3-point range, one rebound, two assists and one steal.
Austin Reaves: B
Reaves got off to a quiet start with just four points on 2-of-5 shooting. He perked up in the third quarter with nine points, and he ended up with 16 points on 6-of-11 from the field, five rebounds, seven assists, three steals and no turnovers.
While he was efficient in this game, the Lakers simply needed more scoring from him, especially in the first half when they fell behind.
LeBron James: C-plus/B-minus
The Lakers also needed more scoring from James. He had 16 points on 7-of-11 from the field, and late in the first quarter, he passed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most made field goals in NBA history. He started to pile up some assists in the opening minutes of the fourth quarter and ended up with eight of them, plus five rebounds, three steals and one block in 34 minutes.
In the fourth quarter, James took a nasty spill after making a layup and appeared to hurt his elbow. He exited the game and returned shortly afterward, but that will be something to watch, especially since the Lakers play again on Friday against the Indiana Pacers.
Luka Doncic: B/B-plus
Doncic scored 15 points in the first half and 12 more in the third quarter, but he went scoreless and missed all five of his shot attempts in the fourth quarter. Overall, he shot 11-of-24 from the field and 3-of-10 from downtown and only attempted four free throws, but he also contributed 11 rebounds, seven assists and four steals, and he was fairly active in pursuing the basketball defensively.
He picked up his 15th technical foul of the season in this game, and that is important, as the NBA automatically gives players who reach 16 technicals on the season a one-game suspension.
Jaxson Hayes: A
Hayes was forced to play a lot more than usual — 27 minutes, to be exact — and he gave the Lakers exactly what they needed from him offensively. He scored 19 points and made eight of his 10 shot attempts, and he moved well without the ball and got multiple dunks. He also got five rebounds and added two assists.
Rui Hachimura: A-minus
Coming into this game, Hachimura hadn't scored more than 10 points in a game since Feb. 12. But he converted six of his nine shot attempts and four of his five 3-point tries in this game, giving him 16 points. He also chipped in two rebounds, three assists and one steal, and at times, he played some active and effortful defense on Jokic, even if it wasn't effective enough.
Luke Kennard: B/B-plus
Kennard went 3-of-6 from the field and made two of his three 3-point attempts to score eight points in 20 minutes. But he didn't have any other statistical contributions in this game, and this was the type of game where it would've helped if he had been a little more aggressive in terms of looking for his shot.
Jake LaRavia: D-minus
LaRavia has been inconsistent offensively all season, and Thursday's game was an example of him at his nadir. He missed each of his first five shot attempts and ended up 1-of-6 from the field and 0-of-3 from beyond the arc, resulting in just two points.
Had LaRavia been on point offensively and gotten into double digits in scoring, perhaps the outcome of this game would've been different.
Jarred Vanderbilt: Incomplete
Vanderbilt got four minutes of playing time in this game and contributed one rebound.
It’s that time of the year again and it’s Formula 1 pre-season predictions time!
A new era is dawning in 2026 with new cars, new regulations and a new team in Cadillac. While Mercedes are the favourites - with George Russell the pick for the bookies - nobody truly knows what’s going to happen come the first race on 8 March in Melbourne.
Lando Norris won his first F1 world championship last year, but McLaren look to be a tad short of pace compared to Mercedes and Ferrari, who are full of optimism after a winless 2025 and a podium-less campaign for Lewis Hamilton.
We have a rookie on the grid in British 18-year-old Arvid Lindblad, driving for Red Bull’s junior team. And what about Max Verstappen? The Dutchman is chasing a fifth world title in six years, at a team who have built their own power unit for the first time alongside Ford.
Ahead of the season-opener in Melbourne, these are my predictions for 2026:
World champion – George Russell
I know, I know, not exactly bold, but Russell is undoubtedly now ready for a championship tilt.
The British driver, now in his fifth season at Mercedes, enjoyed his best-year in F1 last season, maximising every opportunity possible, with two wins and nine podiums. All he needs now is consistent race-winning machinery beneath him and, it seems, Mercedes are the leading outfit.
George Russell is the favourite (Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)
Constructors’ champions – Mercedes
Whispers in the paddock have long billed the Silver Arrows as the number one team - but the top-four remain closely bunched heading into Melbourne.
Ferrari, McLaren and Red Bull are bang in contention, but Toto Wolff’s outfit have been eyeing these new set of regulations after a difficult four-year period. Given their experience and expertise, I back them to get it just about right.
Toto Wolff’s Mercedes team are the frontrunners (AP)
Constructors’ wooden spoon – Cadillac
Anything higher than 11th place for F1’s newest team would be a monumental achievement.
Simply getting to the first test was a big achievement, something Williams couldn’t achieve, but the tests in Bahrain showed that Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas were well short on pace, regularly at the bottom of the timesheet.
Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas are driving for Cadillac (Cadillac Formula 1 team)
Who finishes higher out of Hamilton or Leclerc at Ferrari?
Hamilton’s optimism ahead of race one is promising, but given his know-how at Ferrari and his dominance of the head-to-head last year, Leclerc is the favourite to win the Scuderia teammate battle.
It feels as if the Monegasque has gone slightly under the radar in pre-season. If Ferrari are competitive, he could have a genuine shot at his first world title.
Charles Leclerc is hoping for a competitive car from Ferrari (Getty Images)
Biggest shock: Fernando Alonso
Aston Martin look in a state of utter helplessness at the moment, amid their problems with new power-unit provider Honda.
Two-time world champion Alonso, 44, has been waiting for 2026 for some time as his final chance to perhaps launch one final championship tilt. Currently, it looks a million miles away.
So here goes my wild prediction: Alonso will lose patience and retire midway through the season, around the summer break.
Fernando Alonso is a two-time world champion (Getty Images)
Best underdog: Pierre Gasly
Alpine were bottom-of-the-table last year but, having ditched their in-house programme, they have taken on Mercedes engines. A wise move.
They look right at the top of the midfield in pre-season and, therefore, could be in contention for regular points. I’m not convinced by Franco Colapinto, but his teammate, Pierre Gasly, now in his ninth consecutive season, is extremely capable. I back him to register a podium.
Pierre Gasly is Alpine’s lead driver (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)
Best race – Australia
Given the uncertainty of the new rules and new regulations, including the active aero, boost mode and overtake mode, the first race should be full of drama.
Expect lock-ups. Expect collisions. Expect the unknown. With 500,000 fans in the grandstands over the course of the race weekend, it should be a cracker.
Albert Park hosts the season-opener (Getty Images)
Joao Pedro urges “important” player to “keep working hard” as he sends message to team-mate
Joao Pedro has urged Alejandro Garnacho to keep working hard, and believes the winger’s “time will come” following a positive performance against Aston Villa.
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Garnacho has struggled since his £40m move from Manchester United last summer, but both he and Pedro impressed at Villa Park.
Quenda will reportedly go straight into the squad and compete for minutes next season, and it’ll be very interesting to see what impact he makes, and how he adapts to the demands of the Premier League.
Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:
The effect of the US/Israeli military action against Iran has already been felt in the F1 paddock: on Wednesday in Melbourne, there were no completed cars in the garages and many team personnel were yet to arrive, owing to flight delays and cancellations. As such the mandatory ‘curfew' on working hours was suspended and the pitlane remained a hive of industry long into the night.
For those McLaren and Mercedes personnel who had been due to conduct the Pirelli wet-tyre test last weekend, the journey to Australia involved a road trip from Bahrain to Saudi Arabia, then flights back to the UK via Egypt before catching specially chartered flights from Stansted to Melbourne avoiding the closed airspace around the Gulf. Sources in the paddock confirmed that at least one flew via Tanzania.
In the UK alone – home to the majority of teams on the F1 grid – the Foreign Office advice is for nationals not to travel in the Gulf region, and as long as this remains in place it will be impossible to stage the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix next month. There would be no way of securing the necessary insurance.
Jeddah is an important location for F1 since state-owned oil corporation Aramco is a major sponsor.
Jeddah is an important location for F1 since state-owned oil corporation Aramco is a major sponsor.
The World Endurance Championship season opener in Qatar, scheduled for the last weekend in March, has already been postponed until the end of the season. But F1 doesn't have this flexibility because its 24-event calendar is more tightly clustered, and the other Middle Eastern rounds are scheduled back-to-back with the Las Vegas GP in a widely disliked triple-header.
While in public, the messaging is that the commercial rights holder and governing body are waiting to see what happens, in reality the contingency planning is already under way because the conflict is expected to escalate in the short term. Motorsport.com understands that as things stand, it is highly unlikely the Bahrain GP will take place at all, and that while it was mooted for the Jeddah round to potentially shift into the gap between Miami and Montreal, this is both logistically sub-optimal and still open to disruption should the conflict rumble on.
There is a hard deadline for some decisions to be made in that the freight is due to be shipped to Bahrain after the Japanese Grand Prix on 29 March. It's understood that another of the options on the table was for back-to-back races at Suzuka, but the main obstacle here was the promoter's ability to ramp up to sell tickets for the second event to make it commercially sustainable.
Portimao was among the replacement venues during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Portimao was among the replacement venues during the Covid-19 pandemic.
While several venues held back-to-back races behind closed doors during the COVID-19 pandemic, this was an entirely different arrangement in that F1 was in effect hiring the circuits to fulfil its broadcast contracts, rather than the usual model of a race promoter paying the commercial rights holder to stage an event.
For the same reasons it's unlikely that F1 will use European venues as stand-ins, although word has circulated within the paddock that all the hotels in the vicinity of Imola have already been speculatively booked for the 11-12 April weekend – Bahrain's slot. It would be exceedingly difficult to set up to stage a commercially sustainable grand prix event within a matter of weeks, for this would involve not only selling ordinary tickets, but also facilitating the VIP hospitality, which does much to underpin F1's event revenues.
There are logistical requirements for these facilities, as well as for the team motorhomes, which would have to be extracted from storage and transported by road.
By the same token, there is less pressure on F1 to stage events than in the COVID years, because it is already well over the threshold of races per season to fulfil its broadcast contracts. Indeed, it's understood that such lobbying as there has been to replace the Bahrain and Saudi GPs has come from the teams themselves, who want to guard their share of F1's commercial revenues – though this is not, of course, the messaging in public.
The question will be high on the agenda in F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali's regular meeting with the team principals, scheduled for Saturday morning.
"There's been very little communication about it yet because of the effort that it took just to get here to Australia," said McLaren boss Zak Brown.
"Obviously the sport ourselves, the fans, the partners, our race team – all that will be of the utmost importance from a safety point of view. We'll just have to see how things play out and we'll make the right decision for the health of everybody involved in the sport."
On the subject of the financial impact on the teams of cancelling races without replacing them, Brown was suitably diplomatic. Bahrain's sovereign wealth fund owns the McLaren Group and is a majority shareholder in McLaren Racing.
"Probably it all kind of depends," Brown said. "Do the races get replaced, do they get delayed? And the economics around that.
"But I think given what's going on, we're not bothered if it does have a little bit of a financial impact."
Photos from Australian GP - Friday
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images
Lando Norris, McLaren
Lando Norris, McLaren
Quinn Rooney / Getty Images
Lando Norris, McLaren
Lando Norris, McLaren
Quinn Rooney / Getty Images
Oscar Piastri, McLaren, Lily Zneimer
Oscar Piastri, McLaren, Lily Zneimer
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls
Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls
Rudy Carezzevoli / Getty Images
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Alexandra Leclerc
Alexandra Leclerc
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Anni Graf - Formula 1 via Getty Images
Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing
Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing
Quinn Rooney / Getty Images
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Lawrence Stroll, Aston Martin
Lawrence Stroll, Aston Martin
Anni Graf - Formula 1 via Getty Images
Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls
Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls
Jayce Illman / Getty Images
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
Sam Bagnall / Sutton Images via Getty Images
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
Sam Bagnall / Sutton Images via Getty Images
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
Sam Bloxham / LAT Images via Getty Images
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images
Pierre Gasly, Alpine
Pierre Gasly, Alpine
Joe Portlock / Getty Images
Pierre Gasly, Alpine
Pierre Gasly, Alpine
Joe Portlock / Getty Images
Edie Piastri
Edie Piastri
Anni Graf - Formula 1 via Getty Images
Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing
Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Bill Ford, great-grandson of Ford founder Henry Ford
Bill Ford, great-grandson of Ford founder Henry Ford
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Mercedes mechanics at work
Mercedes mechanics at work
Martin Keep / AFP via Getty Images
Lando Norris, McLaren
Lando Norris, McLaren
Martin Keep / AFP via Getty Images
Carlos Sainz, Williams
Carlos Sainz, Williams
Peter Fox / Getty Images
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Steven Tee / LAT Images via Getty Images
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Mark Sutton / Formula 1 via Getty Images
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Martin Keep / AFP via Getty Images
George Russell, Mercedes, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
George Russell, Mercedes, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
Sam Bloxham / LAT Images via Getty Images
Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team
Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team
Joe Portlock / Getty Images
Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team
Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team
Joe Portlock / Getty Images
Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari
Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari
Mark Sutton / Formula 1 via Getty Images
Alexander Albon, Williams
Alexander Albon, Williams
Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes, Arvid Lindblad, Racing Bulls
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes, Arvid Lindblad, Racing Bulls
This weekend, fans of high octane sports will be watching Melbourne’s Albert Park as it transforms into a winding street circuit for the Australian Grand Prix.
The new season of Formula One (F1) is here, not only with a set of highly anticipated regulation changes but also a shiny new streaming deal with Apple TV — the latest sign of the sport’s growing media presence.
F1 announced its partnership with Apple TV last October, and the five-year agreement makes the streaming platform the sport’s exclusive broadcast partner in the United States. For F1, the deal broadens its reach during a crucial and revolutionary season.
The sport and the streaming platform are no strangers to one another, with Apple’s F1: The Movie making nearly €550 million($630 million) at the end of last year, according to Motorsport.com, and surprisingly driving into Oscar contention for Best Picture.
FILE: Brad Pitt, Lewis Hamilton, and Damson Idris attend the world premiere of "F1: The Movie" in New York, U.S., 2025.
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AP Photo
Apple vision
Ahead of engines starting, Apple has spent substantial time talking about how much the viewing experience will change the way fans regard races.
“In addition to broadcasting Formula 1 on Apple TV, Apple will amplify the sport across Apple News, Apple Maps, Apple Music, and Apple Fitness+,” Apple said in a press release. Viewers can also expect live updates, via Apple Sports, on qualifying and race sessions.
Much like its efforts to promote F1: The Movie, the company plans to use the breadth of the Apple-verse to draw North American audiences to its live broadcast.
“We have a shared vision to bring this amazing sport to our fans in the US and entice new fans through live broadcasts, engaging content, and a year-round approach to keep them hooked,” added Stefano Domenicali, Formula One’s president and CEO.
Haas driver Esteban Ocon poses with fans ahead of the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, Australia, 2026.
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AP Photo
Apple TV has also struck a dealwith Netflix to host season 8 of the hugely popular documentary series Drive to Survive, which follows the 2025 Formula One World Championship. Netflix, in turn, will livestream the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix for US viewers.
The clear interest in the sport from large streaming platforms follows F1’s growing international popularity and recent appeal to younger, more diverse audiences.
In 2025, 43% of fans were under 35 years old, with the sport attracting nearly 51 million fans under-35 year-on-year according to F1. Moreover, nearly 42% of the fanbase last year was female, compared to 37% in 2018.
These shifts in the sport’s viewership, partly due to the success of projects like Drive to Survive and put into motion after Liberty Media’s 2017 acquisition of the racing business, have cemented the sport’s place in the global cultural zeitgeist.
With stars strutting through the paddock, live music performances, and F1-produced videos that capture F1 drivers beyond the racetrack, the sport is leaning heavily into glamour and spotlighting the characters that power its adrenaline-shocked race weekends.
New engines, new era
This year, viewers can expect a exciting season with new teams and manufacturers joining the grid, a new racetrack added to the calendar (Spain’s Madring street circuit in Madrid), and some much-discussed regulation changes.
Cadillac, a brand new team, has joined the sport with two experienced drivers — Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez - and a Ferrari-supplied power unit. Audi is taking over for Kick Sauber and has developed its own power unit, a considerable undertaking for their F1 debut. Ford is also reentering the sport, having helped develop a power unit for Oracle Red Bull Racing and Visa Cash App Racing Bulls in partnership with Red Bull Powertrains.
New manufacturers have flocked to the sport in part because of the 2026 F1 regulations, which brings new technical innovations and makes the sport more road relevant. This season, the cars will be lighter, sport new aerodynamic features, and use a new engine that relies much more on electrical parts and power.
Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton speaks to the press ahead of the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, Australia, 2026.
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AP Photo
As the sport evolves, the season may visit more locations, with some drivers expressing an interest in exploring new destinations. Seven-time world champion and Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton has spoken of his strong desire to see F1 to be held in Africa before he retires, and said he knew F1 chiefs were "really trying" to make it happen.
“I don’t want to leave the sport without having a grand prix there [in Africa],” he said in a press conference on Thursday. “It is the most beautiful part of the world, and I don’t like that the rest of the world owns so much of it and takes so much from it and no-one speaks about it.
"Take it back from the French. Take it back from the Spanish. Take it back from the Portuguese and the British,"added Hamilton.
Given the enormous costs and competition involved in establishing a track or race, it seems unlikely Hamilton will get his wish in the very near future.
However, nothing can be totally ruled out for F1 as it increasingly shows its drive to attract a greater global audience in new lucrative markets.
Under Michael Carrick, United have won six out of eight games and put themselves in a good position to achieve Champions League football next season. They currently still have Aston Villa and AFC Bournemouth to play before the international break at the end of March.
The fixture list has been released for April on the club’s official website, and United have three key games in the race for Europe.
Confirmed fixtures
United fans will need to wait an incredible 24 days between their fixture against AFC Bournemouth on Friday 20th March and their next match against Leeds United on Monday 13th April.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 20:00 BST and will be shown on Sky Sports.
The previous fixture was a 1-1 draw at Elland Road and proved to be Ruben Amorim’s last game in charge. Brazilian Matheus Cunha scored United’s equaliser in the match.
The site also adds that, “the match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge is still on Saturday 18 April, but the kick-off time has changed from 15:00 to 20:00 BST due to TNT Sports showing it live.” The Blues are one of United’s major rivals for a Champions League spot, so the match could be pivotal in the race.
The Red Devils beat Chelsea 2-1 at Old Trafford through goals from Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro. Finally, United will take on Brentford at Old Trafford on Monday 27th April, kicking off at 20:00 BST.
The game may need to be rescheduled should the Bees reach the semi-final stage of the FA Cup.
Frustration
The Mirror report that “Manchester United have reportedly complained to the Premier League and Sky Sports after being left frustrated with the latest fixture announcement.”
All three matches kick off at 20:00 BST, and this means that, “14 of their 34 league games that have been scheduled so far have been 8pm kick-offs.”
This is particularly complicated for away fans who have to travel to London to face Chelsea.
The Sun reports that United also have a bone of contention over the 24-day wait period they have for a match.
It is stated that, “club sources accept they are an ‘attractive option’ for broadcasters but believe these massive gaps in the calendar could be avoided.”
Liverpool seek €60m upgrade on exiting club legend
Liverpool are looking at a very expensive upgrade for a departing club legend. This will raise eyebrows.
Liverpool have their eyes on Nathaniel Brown, according to Florian Plettenberg. The left-back is supposedly up for grabs from Eintracht Frankfurt - but he won't come cheap.
The figure is apparently €60m, which would make Brown the most expensive full-back in Liverpool's history. That's a record they only set in the summer when Milos Kerkez arrived from Bournemouth.
But the Reds are now scouting Brown in person. It's a sign that they're willing to go big in the position once again. And that Andy Robertson is firmly on his way out.
Andy Robertson: Situation Summary
Contract Status and Imminent Departure
As of 5 March 2026, Andy Robertson is in the final months of his illustrious career at Liverpool, with his current contract set to expire on 30 June 2026. Reliable reports, including those from journalist David Lynch, have stated there is "no chance" of a new deal being offered to the 31-year-old Scotland captain. This lack of a renewal signals a definitive end to his nine-year tenure at Anfield, a period during which he secured every major honour available. Liverpool's management is reportedly comfortable with allowing the vice-captain to depart as a free agent this summer to facilitate a broader squad refresh under Arne Slot.
Performance and Secondary Role
The 2025/26 season has seen Robertson’s influence on the pitch significantly reduced as he adapts to a secondary role. He has started only five Premier League matches this campaign, totalling just 679 minutes of league football, as Arne Slot has consistently preferred 22-year-old Milos Kerkez in the left-back position. Robertson has publicly expressed his frustration with this lack of playing time, admitting in a recent interview that "footballers want to play" and that his future remains unresolved. Despite the drop in minutes, he continues to be a vocal presence in the dressing room and featured as a late substitute during the 2-1 defeat to Wolves on 3 March.
Potential Future Destinations
With his departure looming, several intriguing options have emerged for Robertson's next move. A return to his boyhood club, Celtic, is considered an "emotionally compelling" option, bolstered by the recent arrival of his former teammate and neighbour Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain at Parkhead. Additionally, ambitious Championship side Wrexham, co-owned by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, are reportedly prepared to offer lucrative wages to lure the defender should they secure promotion to the Premier League. Other potential suitors include Tottenham Hotspur, who made an enquiry in January, as well as clubs in the Saudi Pro League and Major League Soccer. Robertson’s primary focus remains on leading Scotland into the 2026 World Cup, regardless of his club status.
In exchange for Carlson, the Ducks will send a conditional first-round pick (2026 or 2027 draft) and a third-round pick (2027) to Washington.
Carlson, who played an integral part of the Capitals' 2018 Stanley Cup win and is a former Norris Trophy runner-up for the NHL's top defenseman, should bring a veteran presence to a young Ducks team that is on pace to make the playoffs for the first time since 2017.
“John Carlson brings leadership, character, a high hockey IQ and a presence to our lineup,” Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek said in a statement. “We are very excited to add a Stanley Cup winner to complement our group and make a big push down the stretch.”
Carlson, who is scheduled to become a free agent this offseason, has 10 goals and 46 points in 55 games with the Capitals the season. In 1,143 career games with the Capitals, he has 771 points (166 goals, 605 assists) — ranking him 24th all-time among NHL defensemen. A two-time All-Star, Carlson played for the U.S. at the 2014 Sochi Olympic Games and in the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. He also scored the winning goal for the U.S. in the 2010 World Junior Championship.
The Ducks are second in the Pacific Division and have won 13 of their last 16 games. They face the Montreal Canadiens on Friday and the St. Louis Blues on Sunday before embarking on a four-game Canadian road trip.
The Carlson deal was made roughly 14 hours before Friday's NHL trade deadline at noon PST.
This is a developing story. The Times will have more on Carlson soon.
The Winnipeg Jets have parted ways with defencemen Logan Stanley and Luke Schenn.
Late Thursday evening, Jets' general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff pulled the trigger on a deal that saw the 27-year-old Jets first round draft pick (2017) moved to Buffalo alongside the veteran defender for a forward prospect, two draft picks and a pending UFA defenceman.
Photo by Timothy Ludwig/USA Today
In all, Winnipeg moved Stanley and Schenn in exchange for Isak Rosen, Jacob Bryson, a 2027 second round pick and a 2026 fourth round selection.
Seemingly tidy work by the league's second-longest serving GM, who was able to get something out of what would likely be nothing, as both Stanley and Schenn are free agents at season's end.
Rosen is the centrepiece in the deal.
A 23-year-old 2021 first round selection (14th overall), Rosen made the jump from Sweden to North America three seasons back and has played very well for the Sabres' AHL club in Rochester.
After scoring 14 goals and 37 points in 66 games in his rookie campaign, the 6-foot, 180-pound forward put up seasons of 50 and 55 points before beginning this year with 25 goals and 43 points in 37 AHL contests - operating at well over a point-per-game pace.
He has also suited up in 16 games for Buffalo, to which Rosen has three goals and seven points to his name.
Bryson, a 28-year-old, left-shooting blueliner was a fourth round pick of the Sabres in 2017. He has played almost exclusively for Buffalo throughout his professional career, averaging just under 10 points per season on the back-end.
Winnipeg also brought in two mid-high draft picks for the coming two drafts, with the big piece being the Sabres' 2027 second round selection. The Jets will also have the right to Buffalo's fourth round pick at this year's draft - which just so happens to held in Buffalo.
Former Formula 1 driver Timo Glock has branded Aston Martin's start to the 2026 season as "disastrous" and has questioned whether it would be possible for the Silverstone outfit to change power unit partners from 2027.
2026 marks the start of Aston Martin's exclusive power unit partnership with Honda, and while the Japanese manufacturer has enjoyed a lot of success in recent years, it has started 2026 on the back foot.
The team had a delayed start to private testing in Barcelona and had limited running in pre-season testing in Bahrain. Now, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll are battling against reliability issues caused by vibrations in the chassis, which team principal Adrian Newey claimed could put the drivers at risk of permanent nerve damage in their hands.
"It’s been devastating for the entire team at the moment. Naturally, also an absolute blow for Honda," Glock told Sky Sports Germany. "To go into testing already with so many problems. We’ve already heard different voices. So, it’s disastrous. Fernando Alonso was basically ready to go, and then another problem was identified with the battery. Everything had to be taken apart again.
"As you said, Fernando Alonso didn’t do a single lap. Then Lance Stroll, three laps total," he added in reference to the first practice session in Melbourne. "Think about all that has been invested. Consider what was built in Silverstone in the factory, the campus, the wind tunnel, and so on. Adrian Newey was brought in.
"Additional engineers were hired. And now here we are, and we can’t really run the car. So, it’s a disastrous start to this season."
When asked why it took until November to find out that Honda had encountered issues, the German driver added: "That’s a good question. Of course, certain engineers—and we mustn’t forget this—many Honda and Mercedes-Benz engineers, for example, moved to Red Bull.
Timo Glock
Timo Glock
"And so you have to say, Red Bull is in the position of having bought and built a good power unit with this experience.
"But the question is, why did it only become clear in November that they were so far behind, that manpower was lacking? And naturally, also why Aston Martin, or the team principal side, only addressed it then. Why not earlier, since the development of this engine goes back years? They must have started very early—or had to start very early.
"At the moment, to my understanding, it’s not clear why it took so long to realise that such steps were behind schedule. And it also doesn’t sound like this will be fixed in two or three races.
"This is a fundamental problem: they have these vibrations, battery issues, cannot get the performance out, and are simply miles behind the other manufacturers. You will not make that up this year, and next year, in my view, they are already at a disadvantage."
Glock added that while there could be exit clauses in the contract with Honda, switching power unit partners in 2027 would not automatically fix the Lawrence Stroll-owned team's issues.
"Yes, that’s the question, of course—how are these contracts and structures set up? If Honda has not delivered the performance that may be stipulated in the contracts, there is the possibility to exit the contract.
"But the fact is, the whole year is lost. To go again next year with a new manufacturer, that’s a topic that also affects the design of the car. That has to be examined, and it will certainly be examined behind the scenes, to address these issues and how the team is structured. That is, of course, also a financial loss for this team and, naturally, from a market perspective, a total catastrophe."
Photos from Australian GP - Friday
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images
Lando Norris, McLaren
Lando Norris, McLaren
Quinn Rooney / Getty Images
Lando Norris, McLaren
Lando Norris, McLaren
Quinn Rooney / Getty Images
Oscar Piastri, McLaren, Lily Zneimer
Oscar Piastri, McLaren, Lily Zneimer
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls
Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls
Rudy Carezzevoli / Getty Images
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Alexandra Leclerc
Alexandra Leclerc
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Anni Graf - Formula 1 via Getty Images
Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing
Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing
Quinn Rooney / Getty Images
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Lawrence Stroll, Aston Martin
Lawrence Stroll, Aston Martin
Anni Graf - Formula 1 via Getty Images
Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls
Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls
Jayce Illman / Getty Images
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
Sam Bagnall / Sutton Images via Getty Images
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
Sam Bagnall / Sutton Images via Getty Images
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
Sam Bloxham / LAT Images via Getty Images
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1
Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images
Pierre Gasly, Alpine
Pierre Gasly, Alpine
Joe Portlock / Getty Images
Pierre Gasly, Alpine
Pierre Gasly, Alpine
Joe Portlock / Getty Images
Edie Piastri
Edie Piastri
Anni Graf - Formula 1 via Getty Images
Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing
Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Bill Ford, great-grandson of Ford founder Henry Ford
Bill Ford, great-grandson of Ford founder Henry Ford
Kym Illman / Getty Images
Mercedes mechanics at work
Mercedes mechanics at work
Martin Keep / AFP via Getty Images
Lando Norris, McLaren
Lando Norris, McLaren
Martin Keep / AFP via Getty Images
Carlos Sainz, Williams
Carlos Sainz, Williams
Peter Fox / Getty Images
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Steven Tee / LAT Images via Getty Images
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Mark Sutton / Formula 1 via Getty Images
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Oscar Piastri, McLaren
Martin Keep / AFP via Getty Images
George Russell, Mercedes, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
George Russell, Mercedes, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
Sam Bloxham / LAT Images via Getty Images
Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team
Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team
Joe Portlock / Getty Images
Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team
Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team
Joe Portlock / Getty Images
Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari
Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari
Mark Sutton / Formula 1 via Getty Images
Alexander Albon, Williams
Alexander Albon, Williams
Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes, Arvid Lindblad, Racing Bulls
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes, Arvid Lindblad, Racing Bulls
England’s Karl Dickson is one of the officials for the 2026 Six Nations, overseeing his second fixture of the campaign as Ireland host Wales.
The former professional player ended a long top-level career in 2017 having narrowly missed out on an England cap.
Younger brother Lee, also a scrum half, appeared 18 times for his country between 2012 and 2014.
While he may not have reached the international level as a player, the elder Dickson sibling has rapidly risen through the refereeing ranks after starting his officiating journey while still playing for Harlequins.
He joined the Rugby Football Union’s Professional Game Match Officials Team (PGMOT) on retirement, and three years later made the step up to Test level.
A Six Nations debut arrived soon enough and he made the cut for a first World Cup in the autumn of 2023 as one of four English referees.
Dickson refereed a number of pool matches at the tournament, before being pressed into emergency duties during the first quarter-final between Wales and Argentina.
Michigan State basketball took down Rutgers on senior night, defeating the Scarlet Knights, 91-87. While it got dicey towards the end, Michigan State was able to come away victorious, sending their seniors out with a win.
One of those seniors, Carson Cooper, caught up with Steve Smith and the FS1 broadcast courtside following the win.
Cooper, finishing with 14 points and six rebounds, was a no-star recruit coming to Michigan State with big dreams, and he is certainly fulfilling those dreams.
See what Cooper had to say to Smith about his senior night win:
Contact/Follow us @The SpartansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan State news, notes and opinion. You can also follow Cory Linsner on X @Rex_Linzy
LA Kings players celebrate after a goal during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
LOS ANGELES, Calif. - The LA Kings beat the New York Islanders, 5-3, at Crypto.com Arena on March 5th, 2026 in Los Angeles, California and The Sporting Tribune's Edwin So was there to capture the following images.
LA Kings left wing Artemi Panarin (72) scores a goal during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
LA Kings left wing Artemi Panarin (72) scores a goal during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
New York Islanders goalie Ilya Sorokin (30) misses a save during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
New York Islanders goalie Ilya Sorokin (30) misses a save during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
LA Kings players celebrate after a goal during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
LA Kings players celebrate after a goal during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
LA Kings center Anze Kopitar (11) celebrates with team mates after scoring a goal during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
LA Kings center Anze Kopitar (11) celebrates with team mates after scoring a goal during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
LA Kings right wing Adrian Kempe (9) scores during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
LA Kings right wing Adrian Kempe (9) scores during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
LA Kings right wing Adrian Kempe (9) scores during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
LA Kings right wing Adrian Kempe (9) scores during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
LA Kings defensiveman Mikey Anderson (44) battles for the puck during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
LA Kings defensiveman Mikey Anderson (44) battles for the puck during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
New York Islanders right wing Simon Holmstrom (10) skates with the puck behind the goal during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
New York Islanders right wing Simon Holmstrom (10) skates with the puck behind the goal during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
New York Islanders center Mathew Barzal (13) pushes the puck through two defenders during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
New York Islanders center Mathew Barzal (13) pushes the puck through two defenders during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
New York Islanders defensiveman Tony DeAngelo (77) makes a pass during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
New York Islanders defensiveman Tony DeAngelo (77) makes a pass during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
LA Kings left wing Artemi Panarin (72) celebrates with defensiveman Drew Doughty (8) after scoring a goal during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
LA Kings left wing Artemi Panarin (72) celebrates with defensiveman Drew Doughty (8) after scoring a goal during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
New York Islanders defensiveman Tony DeAngelo (77) moves to defensive position during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
New York Islanders defensiveman Tony DeAngelo (77) moves to defensive position during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
LA Kings right wing Adrian Kempe (9) battles for the puck during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
LA Kings right wing Adrian Kempe (9) battles for the puck during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Playes scramble for possession during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
Playes scramble for possession during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
LA Kings left wing Artemi Panarin (72) makes a pass during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
LA Kings left wing Artemi Panarin (72) makes a pass during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
LA Kings right wing Adrian Kempe (9) gets into position near the goal during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
LA Kings right wing Adrian Kempe (9) gets into position near the goal during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
LA Kings goalie Darcy Kuemper (35) makes a save during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
LA Kings goalie Darcy Kuemper (35) makes a save during an NHL game between the New York Islanders and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Calif
MUNICH, GERMANY - MARCH 03: Vincent Kompany of FC Bayern Muenchen during a training session at Saebener Straße on March 03, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by S. Mellar/FC Bayern via Getty Images) | FC Bayern via Getty Images
Amid all the hoopla around Arsenal and their set pieces, one top team remains almost dogged in their determination to be bad at them. Bayern Munich under Vincent Kompany have long been called out for a weakness in dead ball situations, and it’s come to the point where even the coach had to comment on it.
“The fact is, we’re not perfect,” said Kompany (via @iMiaSanMia). “We’re trying every day to become a better version of FC Bayern. We went through a period where we talked about it almost daily, when we conceded the most goals from set pieces. We’re on the right track. On the other hand, we’re one of the best teams in Europe in attacking set pieces, that’s often forgotten. But overall we want to do better in that department.”
This statement comes amid massive debate in the football world regarding the role of set pieces in the modern game. Arsenal FC have been pioneers of a new, ultra utilitarian (some may say, borderline illegal) method of taking corners, which has elicited strong reactions from fans and pundits. Their effectiveness has proven instrumental in their rise — when Bayern met the Gunners in the Champions League, the opening goal was scored via a corner kick.
So Kompany finally admits that FC Bayern could do better in these situations. Now, fans will patiently (or, impatiently) await some improvement in that area. With the players Kompany has, there is no excuse for conceding goals on set places.
Former Blue: “Chelsea gave me what was difficult for me to get at Arsenal – Trophies”
Former Chelsea star Cesc Fabregas says The Blues gave him an opportunity to win trophies, something he didn’t get at Arsenal.
These are words that will scathe fans of The Gunners I am quite sure. But the reality is, the man is just being honest because at that time, Chelsea were winning things and Arsenal were not.
The former Blues midfielder, who is now the manager at Como, admits to having tears when he played his last game for Chelsea due to the emotional connection he made there with the fans.
“Crying after my last game for Chelsea was something I couldn’t control. It was a very emotional moment. Despite joining from a rival club, the fans showed me love beyond imagination.
“I was so loved at Chelsea that I started wishing I had started my career there. Chelsea gave me what was difficult for me to get at Arsenal —Trophies.”
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Absolutely beautiful stuff to see him speaking about Chelsea in this way. I reckon he will absolutely manage the club here one day in the not so distant future.
In other news today…
Chelsea winger Alejandro Garnacho’s efforts in the 4-1 win away at Aston Villa on Wednesday evening in the Premier Leagueearned a lot of praisefrom Liam Rosenior, and may have earned him a start this Saturday too as they prepare to take on Wrexham in the 5th round of the FA Cup.
Blues striker Joao Pedro also spoke after that same game earlier this week in pretty emotional terms about how happy we was to be at Chelsea.
Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:
It was senior night inside of the Breslin Center on Thursday night, where the Spartans defeated the Scarlet Knights, 91-87. Rutgers may have put a scare into Michigan State, but MSU pulled out a victory, and sent their seniors out with a win.
Following the win, Tom Izzo spoke with an MSU legend, Steve Smith, courtside about the game on the FS1 broadcast. Izzo, despite the close game, gave all the praise to his seniors, and talked about how much they mean to him and the program.
Contact/Follow us @The SpartansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan State news, notes and opinion. You can also follow Cory Linsner on X @Rex_Linzy
The Los Angeles Kings (25-22-14) controlled the ice from the opening faceoff Thursday night, outshooting the New York Islanders (35-23-5) 19-5 in the first period and getting Artemi Panarin’s first goal with the franchise in a 1-0 start, prevailing to a 5-3 victory.
Los Angeles led the game for the entire time tonight, forcing 14 Islanders giveaways and sparking an impressive defensive effort to never give the Islanders a chance to make a run.
Los Angeles, from the opening tip, was very physical and played with tempo, outscoring the Islanders 19-5 in the first period, and defensively were forechecking the puck. It was a quality win by the Kings against an Islanders team that is a top-three team in the Metropolitan Division.
The start came at 16:43 in the first period when Artemi Panarin scored his first goal as a member of the Kings after finding himself completely unmarked from roughly ten feet from the net.
Panarin was very patient when he got the puck and shot the puck when there was an open look at the net past Ilya Sorokin to give Los Angeles a 1-0 lead.
A big milestone was recorded tonight by Anze Kopitar, who was honored midway through the first period for playing in his 1,500th NHL game. The milestone makes Kopitar just the 25th player in league history to reach 1,500 games and only the eighth to do so with a single franchise.
The LA Kings honor captain Anze Kopitar for playing his 1,500th game tonight. He’s the 25th player in NHL history to hit the milestone, and only the 8th to do it all with one team. pic.twitter.com/js7EZpLTBz
Panarin's goal continued a long history of success against the Islanders, as he picked up his 19th career goal in 41 games against New York, along with 29 assists.
Los Angeles kept the pressure throughout the remainder of the period, holding a 1-0 lead to end the first. It should've been a much bigger lead because the Kings were generating a lot of good looks, but the Islanders' goaltender Sorokin was sharp, allowing no stick-on goal in the period.
In the second period, New York had plenty of power play opportunities to tie the game and even extend a lead, but it was very bad tonight, finishing 0/3, which even gave the Kings a chance to score twice on their power play.
Midway through the second period, the Kings extended their lead.
At 5:40 of the second, Samuel Helenius scored his fourth goal of the season, finishing the nice play off the assist from Jeff Malott and Taylor Ward, giving Los Angeles a 2-0 lead.
The Kings' fourth line was very impressive, giving good offense and energy from their young guys. Defensively, the team was strong tonight as well, led by Brandt Clarke. The Kings' energy was great, with forechecking pressure that made it tough for the Islanders to score.
Just over a minute after Helenius scored, defender Mikey Anderson got on the board, scoring his third goal of the season to extend the lead to 3-0. Drew Doughty and Adrian Kempe picked up assists on the goal as Anderson’s shot found its way past Sorokin with Kopitar providing a strong screen in front.
The Islanders, though, finally scored a miraculous goal with under one second remaining in the period, after winning a faceoff, Bo Horvat quickly snapped the shot to score his 26th goal of the season, a defensive breakdown from the Kings, clearly thinking it was off.
Still, the Kings didn't look fazed at all, and quickly built their lead in the third period after playing a near-perfect second period before giving up that late goal.
Two minutes into the final frame, Alex Laferriere scored a power-play goal to restore the three-goal lead, going coast-to-coast, snapping his shot inside the post on the blocker side, giving Los Angeles a commanding 4-1 lead.
LAK Goal - It's a........power-play goal!
Laferriere goes coast-to-coast, snaps his shot inside the post on the blocker side. 4-1 Kings.
The Islanders still kept fighting, answering two minutes later with a shorthanded goal, after a two-on-one rush by Adam Pelech, finishing the play to once again trim the lead down to two.
It didn't matter because every time the Islanders looked to have gained momentum and trimmed the lead, the Kings would quickly answer back with a big play on the ice.
At the 8:30 mark of the period, Adrian Kempe tipped a shot in front of the net to make it 5-2 Kings off the nice rush and feed from Clarke and Panarin. Clarke picked up his second assist of the night on the play, while Panarin recorded his second point of the game.
LAK Goal - Juicy!
Panarin hits Clarke, who goes back post to Kempe for the goal! One of the prettier goals they've scored this season. 5-2 Kings.
The Islanders would convert on a late goal after Emil Heineman scored off the deflection by Matthew Schaefer, with just two minutes remaining in regulation. But, the comeback would fall short, as the Kings would hold on down the stretch and secure the 5-3 victory at home.
Key Stats
Darcy Kuemper finished with 31 saves on 34 shots, finally playing a very good game coming off the Olympic break and injury. Meanwhile, Los Angeles finished with 35 shots to the Islanders' 34 and finished 1/3 on the power play, holding New York to 0/3.
Panarin and Kempe were both great for the Kings tonight, with each leading the team with two points, one goal, and one assist. Kopitar's milestone was also a great watch for the fans sitting in attendance at Crypto.com Arena, celebrating the historic King for all the great moments he's given to us over the years.
For Los Angeles, this is a great win because, coming off the Olympic break, they were 1-3 and looking like a team on the verge of giving up on the season, but a win like tonight could spark some momentum for them.
Final: 5-3 LAK
Good overall team win for the Kings putting them three points back of playoff spot with the trade deadline tomorrow.
The Kings' next matchup will be against the Montreal Canadiens on Saturday, March 7, at 7:00 PM EST.
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Liverpool XI vs Wolves – Predicted lineup and team news
Liverpool travel to Molineux tonight, aiming to secure their place in the FA Cup quarter-finals and respond to a frustrating league defeat against the same opposition.
The Reds have moved into the final stages of the competition following dominant wins over Barnsley and Brighton. Manager Arne Slot oversaw a disappointing 2–1 loss on Tuesday and is now looking for his side to rediscover the clinical edge that saw them win the Premier League title last season. Notably, Liverpool have scored in all eight of their previous FA Cup meetings with Wolves, a record stretching back to 1896.
Liverpool team news
Arne Slot manages a squad bolstered by a significant creative return but missing several long-term senior figures. Notably, Florian Wirtz has returned to team training and is back in contention, though he is expected to start on the bench to manage his recovery. Consequently, Dominik Szoboszlai is poised to continue in the number 10 role. Notably, Szoboszlai could become the first Liverpool player since 2012 to score in three successive FA Cup rounds. Rio Ngumoha is pushing for a first senior start after an impressive cameo earlier this week.
Alisson Becker will likely start in goal, though Giorgi Mamardashvili remains a potential alternative if rotation is prioritised. In midfield, Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister are expected to continue their partnership. Mohamed Salah will lead the attack as he looks for his 10th goal involvement in the competition. Notably, Liverpool have been involved in four penalty shootouts in FA Cup history and have won all four. With the quarter-finals just one win away, Slot’s men will be desperate to avoid another late slip-up at Molineux.
Liverpool predicted lineup
Liverpool Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Jones, Gomez, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Ngumoha; Ekitike
When will the match kick off?
The FA Cup fixture takes place at Molineux Stadium on Friday, 6 March 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 GMT.
How to watch Wolves vs Liverpool?
UK fans can watch the match live on TNT Sports 1. Highlights will be available shortly after the final whistle on the TNT Sports app.
Wolves vs Liverpool – FA Cup match preview and team news
Molineux Stadium becomes the stage for a high-stakes FA Cup showdown on Friday night as Wolves look to repeat their league heroics against a Liverpool side seeking redemption and a place in the quarter-finals.
Wolves enter this tie buoyed by a sensational 2–1 victory over the Reds on Tuesday. A dramatic 94th-minute winner from André secured Wolves’ first back-to-back league wins in nearly a year, following their triumph over Aston Villa. While they remain bottom of the Premier League table, Rob Edwards’ side has found their spark in knockout football, having already progressed past Shrewsbury Town and Grimsby Town to reach the fifth round for the third consecutive season.
Liverpool, meanwhile, arrive back in the Midlands with a point to prove. Arne Slot’s men have been dominant in the FA Cup so far this term, dispatching Barnsley and Brighton with ease, but their league form has been hampered by a tendency to concede late goals. Notably, Liverpool have lost five matches this season after the 90th-minute mark—a Premier League record. With a Champions League trip to Galatasaray looming next week, the Reds must balance their squad while aiming to avoid their first consecutive defeats against Wolves since 1980.
Wolves vs Liverpool – FA Cup match preview and team news
Date: Friday, 6 March 2026
Kick-off: 20:00 GMT
Venue: Molineux Stadium, Wolverhampton
Referee: Farai Hallam
VAR: James Bell
Last Meeting: Wolves 2–1 Liverpool (3 March 2026), Premier League
Team News
Wolves
Rob Edwards has a near full-strength squad, with Enso González (knee) being the only confirmed absentee. Hee-Chan Hwang is back in contention after returning as a substitute on Tuesday. In goal, Sam Johnstone is expected to replace José Sá, having started both previous FA Cup ties this season.
Liverpool
Arne Slot confirmed that Florian Wirtz is back in contention after a back injury, though he is likely to start on the bench. The Reds remain without long-term absentees Alexander Isak, Giovanni Leoni, Wataru Endo, and Conor Bradley. Giorgi Mamardashvili could start in goal if Alisson Becker is rested ahead of European duties.
Form
Wolves
Wolves have hit their best form of the season, winning two consecutive matches against top-five opposition. Notably, they have progressed more often (5 times) than they have been eliminated (3) in eight previous FA Cup ties against Liverpool. However, their historical weakness remains Premier League opposition; they have been knocked out by top-flight teams in nine of the last 10 seasons.
Liverpool
The Reds have been perfect in domestic cup competitions this season but have struggled for consistency on the road. Notably, Liverpool have lost their last two away matches in the FA Cup. Despite this, they possess a strong historical edge, having lost just two of their last 17 meetings with Wolves in all competitions. Mohamed Salah remains a major threat, with nine goal involvements in nine FA Cup starts for the club.
Predicted Lineups
Wolves Predicted XI (3-4-1-2): Johnstone; Doherty, Bueno, Krejci; Tchatchoua, Mane, Andre, J Gomes, Wolfe; A Gomes, Armstrong
Liverpool Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Jones, Gomez, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Ngumoha; Ekitike
How to Watch Wolves vs Liverpool?
The match will be televised live in the UK on TNT Sports 1. Coverage begins at 19:00 GMT ahead of the 20:00 kick-off.
Wolves vs Liverpool – Predicted lineup and team news
Wolves host Liverpool at Molineux tonight, aiming to secure back-to-back victories over the Reds for the first time in 46 years.
The Old Gold have moved into the fifth round for the third consecutive season, fueled by a dramatic league win over tonight’s opponents just three days ago. Manager Rob Edwards oversaw a disciplined 2–1 victory and now looks to lead Wolves to their first quarter-final since 2019. Notably, the last time Wolves faced Liverpool in the fifth round was in 1949—a match they won 3–1 on their way to lifting the trophy.
Wolves team news
Rob Edwards manages a squad with excellent availability as they look to build on their recent momentum. Notably, Hee-Chan Hwang is fit and available after a month-long layoff, providing a significant boost to the attack. Consequently, the manager must decide whether to rotate his starting XI after a gruelling Tuesday night fixture. Sam Johnstone is expected to start in goal, continuing his role as the designated cup keeper this term. Notably, Wolves have only played lower-league opposition in the cup so far this season and will face their toughest test yet tonight.
Sam Johnstone will start in goal behind a defensive line likely featuring Santiago Bueno and Ladislav Krejčí. In midfield, the industrious João Gomes and Tuesday’s match-winner André are expected to anchor the side. Mateus Mane and Jackson Tchatchoua will provide the width, with Angel Gomes and Armstrong leading the line. Notably, Wolves are winless in 29 matches in which they have conceded at least once, underscoring the importance of defensive solidity tonight.
Wolves predicted lineup
Wolves Predicted XI (3-4-1-2): Johnstone; Doherty, Bueno, Krejci; Tchatchoua, Mane, Andre, J Gomes, Wolfe; A Gomes, Armstrong
When will the match kick off?
The FA Cup fixture takes place at Molineux Stadium on Friday, 6 March 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 GMT.
How to watch Wolves vs Liverpool?
In the UK, the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1. Fans can also stream the action via the discovery+ app.
Michigan State basketball hosted senior night at the Breslin Center against Rutgers on Thursday night, where the Spartans defeated the Scarlet Knights, 91-87.
While it felt like the Spartans had the game in control, up 15 points with under two minutes to go, things fell apart quickly, putting a damper on the senior day festivities. The most important thing though, the Spartans got the win.
With the win, the seniors got to celebrate properly, after the game, where the traditional senior day festivities took place.
Watch the highlights from the celebration:
Michigan State HC Tom Izzo delivers a heartfelt message to the fans for sticking around for this year's seniors on Senior Night 💚 pic.twitter.com/7nWD2lHlFe
Contact/Follow us @The SpartansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan State news, notes and opinion. You can also follow Cory Linsner on X @Rex_Linzy
When Clive Langford booked a day off work to watch the UK Open, he did not imagine he would actually end up playing in the 'FA Cup of Darts' that day instead.
Langford, 62, a factory worker from Ynyshir in the Rhondda Valley, had booked time off on Friday, 6 March in order to watch Wales' Six Nations game against Ireland before realising the PDC UK Open also started on the same day.
He had no intention of playing at the major tournament until he was told about a qualifying event for amateurs in Newport.
"I booked a half day first of all, then I thought, I like the UK Open, I'll book a day off to watch that as well, and then I saw the qualifiers in Newport, and to be honest, it was a last-minute decision to go," Langford said.
That late choice paid off handsomely as the grandfather won the qualifier, booking his place at the UK Open at Butlin's in Minehead, which runs from Friday to Sunday.
"I thought I'd have a chance, I'd been playing quite well," Langford said.
"I'm a pretty good scorer" he explained. "If I could hit my doubles straight away I'd be quite dangerous, but I suppose that's the same for quite a few players."
The UK Open is known as the FA Cup of Darts due to its open draw format, meaning that from the fourth round any two players could draw each other.
Qualifying for the event brings financial rewards too. If Langford wins his opener against Irish player Stephen Rosney he is guaranteed to win £1,250, with a £120,000 prize on offer if he manages to win all nine games.
Facing Price and Littler
Langford grew up playing darts socially in Wattstown in Rhondda Valley at home and at his local pub, but did not take it more seriously until he turned 40.
"We've always had a dart board in my house since I was a kid, so I've always played. I played for the club once a week on a Sunday night," Langford said.
But working eight-hour shifts in a factory that creates parts for aerosol canisters has an impact on how often he is able to practice.
"I used to play Super League darts (the top level of the pub game), but because I work shifts, days and afternoons, it's a bit awkward at times."
Langford resorted to playing in infrequent "£500 tournaments", with opponents including future World Champions Gerwyn Price and Luke Littler.
"I remember when Gezzy [Price] first came to the tournaments. I played him two or three times. I always lost against him though," Langford laughed.
"I actually played Luke Littler as well. He was nearly 15 then, about a year later he was quite famous because he reached the World Championship final." He explained.
"No one knew him then, I didn't have a clue what I was playing!"
Having competed at a strong amateur level in the Welsh scene for more than twenty years, Langford is focusing on enjoying playing, with no view to go fully professional.
"I like tournaments, meeting up with the boys and just enjoying it," he said.
"I've never gone to Q School, I just don't have the money to do things like that. I'm way past it now, you do need a good job to go to Q School."
Langford will be supported by his son Ben and daughter Carrie in Minehead, with two grandchildren watching from home.
Although many players would see qualifying for their first major as a sign of things to come, Langford remains modest about his chances.
"I would never have been good enough to be professional, but I can play good at the amateur level. I'll just keep playing really, and try to enjoy it."
From booking the day off work to watch the UK Open, to qualifying to play in the tournament, Langford's tale is the epitome of an underdog story.
The Ducks acquired defenseman John Carlson from the Capitals in exchange for a conditional 2026 first-round draft pick and a 2027 third-round pick.
If Anaheim misses the playoffs this season, it has the option to keep its first-rounder in 2026 and instead send its 2027 pick to Washington.
"John Carlson brings leadership, character, a high hockey IQ and a presence to our lineup," Ducks GM Pat Verbeek said in the team's announcement. "We are very excited to add a Stanley Cup winner to complement our group and make a big push down the stretch."
In 55 games this season, the 36-year-old Carlson has 10 goals and 36 assists for 46 points.
No defenseman in Capitals history has more games played (1,143), goals (166), assists (605), points (771), power-play points (273) and game-winning goals (32) than Carlson.
"Since joining our organization 17 years ago, John Carlson has exemplified what it means to be a Washington Capital every day," Capitals GM Chris Patrick said. "John's determination, leadership, persistence and skill helped our franchise reach new heights and cemented him as a cornerstone and one of the greatest players in Capitals history."
Carlson made the NHL's first all-star team in 2019-20, when he finished second in Norris Trophy voting. He was also on the second all-star team in 2018-19.
Here's more on what this trade means for each squad.
Anaheim Ducks Add John Carlson For The Playoff Push
Carlson is a pending UFA, and there's no contract extension in place as of yet. So the Ducks made a significant commitment here by trading a first-rounder for a potential rental defenseman.
The Ducks were not on Carlson's 10-team no-trade list, so that was not an obstacle. And with plenty of cap space, they took on the veteran's $8 million cap hit with no salary retained.
Anaheim ranks second in the Pacific Division, with 71 points. They have one game in hand on the Vegas Golden Knights, which lead the Pacific with 72 points. Vegas is 4-5-1 in its last 10 games, while the Ducks are 7-3-0.
Carlson has not played since Feb. 5 as he recovers from a lower-body injury. Once he returns, he will slot in on the right side of the Ducks' defense, along with Jacob Trouba, captain Radko Gudas and Ian Moore.
Washington is only four points out of the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference. They lost their last two games, however, and are 6-4-0 in their last 10 games. The Ottawa Senators and Columbus Blue Jackets are also chasing the Boston Bruins for that second wild-card spot. They not only have two games in hand on Washington but traded for upgrades on Thursday as well, with Ottawa acquiring Warren Foegele and Columbus getting Conor Garland.
TSN's Pierre LeBrun said Thursday he wouldn't label the Capitals as pure sellers despite the Dowd trade. He said it was his understanding the team would do a bit of buying and selling before 3 p.m. ET on Friday.
By trading Carlson, Washington appears to be moreso sellers than anything else at this moment.
That said, the Caps still have a defense corps that has a solid mix of producers and shutdown players. Jakob Chychrun, Matt Roy and Martin Fehervary are all under contract through at least 2030, while Rasmus Sandin is signed through 2028-29.
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Andrew McCutchen posted a .799 OPS last season against left-handed starting pitchers, and he can help the Texas Rangers in 2026 if he can replicate that number (Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images)
The Texas Rangers continue to seek out right-handed hitters for their roster, and they landed on former MVP Andrew McCutchen to fill a needed role.
SURPRISE, Ariz. — Multiple sources confirmed Thursday that the Texas Rangers reached an agreement with Andrew McCutchen on a minor-league deal. The former National MVP seemed to confirm it himself on Twitter.
He posted a short video of himself decked out from head to toe in cowboy gear after dismounting his horse, a hobby horse that must belong to one of his young children. He appears to be completely bought in to playing in Texas.
McCutchen still has to earn his roster spot, which he will attempt to do with a short but earnest buildup with just over two weeks left in spring training. His task as a right-handed hitter is to prove that he can hit left-handed pitching better than anyone else in camp.
If he does that, a roster spot is his.
The deal is not official, hence no comment from the club. But the low-risk signing — McCutchen can make a maximum of only $2.5 million if he makes the team — makes sense as the Rangers try to find a platoon partner for designated Joc Pederson and outfielder Evan Carter.
The Rangers are curious to know if McCutchen is in shape physically and how sharp he has stayed while waiting for the right deal to come along. He’s a veteran of 17 seasons, but he’s also 39. The body might have the same bounce it once did.
If all is where it should be, McCutchen could be in games at some point next week. If he isn’t ready for Cactus League play, he can slide into minor-league games to catch up on at-bats.
The Rangers searched all season for a part-time right-handed bat. They liked Austin Hays throughout the offseason before seeing him sign with the Padres. Mark Canha was added on a minor-league contract Feb. 15 as another righty-hitting option.
McCutchen had a better 2025 than Canha, playing every day for the Pirates. The overall average was only .239, but he hit 13 homers. He also posted a .749 OPS against all left-handers and was 50 points higher against starters.
Among those who McCutchen will have to fend off for a roster spot is Canha, a veteran and right-handed hitter in his own right. Michael Helman is another righty-hitting outfielder who has minor-league options remaining.
Manager Skip Schumaker is also trying to reshape team chemistry, and McCutchen can help with that as a veteran who has seen just about everything in the game and as a player regarded as a beloved teammate.
President of baseball operations places extreme value on veteran presence and a player’s character, so McCutchen is a fit in that regard, as well.
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Wes Enis had 29 points Thursday night as the USF men’s basketball team defeated Memphis 96-89 to win the American Conference regular-season title outright.
The Bulls (22-8 overall, 14-3 conference), who have won eight straight, will enter the American Conference tournament as the No. 1 seed. They will get a bye into the semifinals, putting them two victories from the school’s fourth NCAA Tournament bid in 53 years of basketball.
Enis shot 9-for-17 from the field. Josh Omojafo shot 7-of-9 from the field, including 3-for-4 from 3-point range, and finished with 21 points. Isaiah Jones had 14 points and five rebounds. Gavin Hightower added 11 points, six rebounds and three steals.
Dug McDaniel finished with 25 points, five rebounds and seven assists for the Tigers (12-18, 7-10), who lost their seventh straight game. Zachary Davis had 17 points and eight rebounds. Sincere Parker added 14 points and seven rebounds.
USF took the lead for good with 2:25 to go in the first half. The score was 51-46 at halftime, with Enis racking up 14 points. The Bulls used a 10-0 run in the second half to build a 14-point lead at 74-60 with 10:12 left in the half before finishing off the win.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
The Washington Capitals have traded defenseman John Carlson to the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for draft picks, the team announced on Friday.
Washington receives a conditional first-round pick in either 2026 or 2027, and a 2027 third-round selection in return for the 35-year-old blueliner. If Anaheim doesn't qualify for the playoffs, it can retain its 2026 first-round pick and transfer its 2027 first-round pick instead.
No salary is being retained in the deal.
Carlson, who was set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season, had spent all 17 years of his career in D.C.
“Since
joining our organization 17 years ago, John Carlson has exemplified
what it means to be a Washington Capital every day,” general manager Chris Patrick said.
“John’s determination, leadership,
persistence and skill helped our franchise reach new heights and
cemented him as a cornerstone and one of the greatest players in
Capitals history. His contributions to our organization and the
Washington, D.C., community both on and off the ice have been
immeasurable. We are incredibly grateful for everything John has given
to our team and wish him and his family nothing but the best moving
forward with Anaheim.”
Carlson is the second big move that the Capitals have made ahead of Friday's deadline, as they traded Nic Dowd to the Vegas Golden Knights on Thursday in exchange for picks and goaltending prospect Jesper Vikman.
Washington is taking a sellers' approach as it sits four points out of playoff position, and has now parted ways with two top veterans, contributors and leaders in the room.
Through 55 games this season, Carlson has 10 goals and 36 assists for 46 points, along with a plus/minus rating of plus-11.
Carlson is the franchise's all-time leading scorer among defensemen, and was one of the team's alternate captains. Through 1,143 career games in the District, he scored 166 goals and added 605 assists for 771 points.
Rubin Colwill missed 17 games after picking up an ankle injury playing for Cardiff City at Northampton in November [Getty Images]
Fit-again Rubin Colwill says he "quite enjoyed" his three-month injury absence and used it to make improvements to his game.
The Cardiff City captain injured an ankle in November and missed 17 games before he returned to fitness last month.
Prior to his injury, Colwill had started every League One match for Cardiff and was instrumental in their ascent to the top of the division.
But the playmaker says his untimely injury gave him an opportunity to work out how he could return a better player.
"Obviously it's tough, I'm not saying it's easy, but I think you catastrophise the situation, and it's just how you manage that in your head," said Colwill.
"I quite enjoyed the experience, to be honest. It was a different challenge, something I hadn't experienced before, and it almost gives you time to take a step back, reflect on a lot of things, decide what you want to do going forward.
"How do you want to work, how do you want to commit yourself to different things, what do I need to work on, what do I need to improve physically in the gym, (and) mentally.
"Just mentally it was obviously a real big challenge. You're away from the team, you can't contribute and it's tough.
"You're on your own all day every day. Not (literally) on your own, but compared to being with 20 other lads it can be quite lonely so I think it tests you mentally more than anything."
Cardiff were top of the league when Colwill was injured, and remain top now he's returned.
"I think when you're coming back into the exact same environment you left, the standards are still really high, the levels and training are still really high, the performances on the pitch are the exact same, and I think that's credit to everyone really.
"People always say the competition and stuff is really important and it definitely is, but I think it's got to be healthy. I think we're in a place right now where we're all competing against each other.
"Of course everybody wants to play, but we just turn up every day, give our best and the manager picks who he picks. We're all almost accepting of that so I think there's no animosity between anybody.
"It's like, 'I'm gonna do my best today, if it's enough I'll play, if it's not I won't and I'll support everybody else who is playing,' so I think it's a really, really healthy environment at the minute."
From injury break to international return?
Colwill will hope to play a prominent part in Cardiff City's League One promotion push and with five fixtures to come before the international break also hopes to play his way into Craig Bellamy's Wales squad for the World Cup play-offs at the end of March.
Since making his debut in 2021, Colwill has won 10 senior Wales caps, scoring once.
He is one of the few Wales internationals to play at the World Cup, appearing as a substitute during Wales' 3-0 defeat by England in Qatar in 2022.
"When I got injured I knew the timescales, I knew when I'd be back. I knew I'd have a couple of weeks before the camp," he said.
"I'm just hopeful that I can stay in the team, play as much as I can and do well for Cardiff and then that'll mean I'm hopefully in a great place to be selected."
Michigan State basketball hosted senior night at the Breslin Center against Rutgers on Thursday night, where the Spartans defeated the Scarlet Knights, 91-87.
While it felt like the Spartans had the game in control, up 15 points with under two minutes to go, things fell apart quickly, putting a damper on the senior day festivities. The most important thing though, the Spartans got the win.
Tom Izzo, after the game, said this is the burn the tape type of game, and he may be right, considering Rutgers has proved to be a very tough matchup for the Spartans this season.
All in all, the Spartans were victorious, and got to celebrate their seniors properly. Here are our three takes from the game:
Late game situations
Any great coach will tell you, there is always something that you can work on and improve. For the Spartans, this game showed that late game situations are imperative. Yes, the all-senior lineup was the start of the late game collapse, but the starters coming back in did not do a stellar job either.
With the NCAA Tournament around the corner, this is the perfect time for this to be a wake up call to the Spartans, and to make sure their late game operation is in tip top form.
Cam Ward's resurgence
This is the version of Cam Ward the Spartans need come tournament time. Ward was a menace once again, something he has shown in the last couple of weeks.
After getting over his hand injury, Ward appears to be back into the form the team saw him be in back in November and December, and if that is the case, this is a massive development for MSU's second unit. A welcomed resurgence for the Spartans freshman.
Ward finished with nine points, nine rebounds and was a whopping +19 on Thursday.
Jeremy Fears putting the finishing touches on a Big Ten Player of the Year campaign
There is no doubt in my mind that Jeremy Fears should be considered the front-runner for Big Ten Player of the Year. The masterclass the Spartans point guard has put on, considering all of things he is responsible for, is nothing short of miraculous.
With a 21 point, eight assist effort on Thursday, Fears once again showed why he should be the pick for the Big Ten's most prestigious award.
Contact/Follow us @The SpartansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan State news, notes and opinion. You can also follow Cory Linsner on X @Rex_Linzy
FC Bayern vs. Borussia Mönchengladbach preview: Leaders face Foals without injured talisman
Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich welcome Borussia Mönchengladbach to the Allianz Arena on Friday night as Vincent Kompany’s side look to continue their march towards another league title.
The Bavarians have built a commanding lead at the top of the table after last week's win against Borussia Dortmund and could extend that advantage even further with a victory against Bundesliga's other Borussia. Gladbach, meanwhile, arrive knowing they will likely need a near-perfect performance to trouble the German champions on their own turf.
Recent form
Bayern have been in formidable form for much of the campaign, combining attacking firepower with defensive stability under Kompany, especially in recent weeks. The league leaders have consistently picked up points and appear firmly on course for the Meisterschale.
Gladbach’s season has been much more turbulent. After a difficult start to the campaign, the Foals have gradually improved since Eugen Polanski took charge earlier in the season. Despite their progress, consistency has remained an issue, leaving them with plenty of work to do in the second half of the campaign. Of their last five games, Gladbach have lost two, drawn two and only won the match last week vs. Union Berlin thanks to a penalty in stoppage time.
Polanski has urged his side to approach the game with “bravery rather than caution”.
The Gladbach coach also suggested that simply sitting deep against Bayern would be “almost suicidal,” instead calling for “absolute commitment” from his players when they face the Bundesliga leaders.
Looking back at both team's first encounter this season, which was Polanski's sixth game in charge, the outcome was quite simple: Gladbach could not contain Bayern offensive power and they lost the game 3-0 to the Bavarians due to goals from Guerreiro, Kimmich and Karl, who really started shining around this time of the season.
The hope for a better outcome for the Foals this time around is big.
Squad news
Bayern will be without their star striker Harry Kane, who has been ruled out with a calf injury after failing to recover in time for the match. The England captain’s absence represents a significant blow given his prolific scoring record this season, although Kompany has indicated the injury is minor and not expected to keep him out for long. It also gives a possible starting XI chance to Jamal Musiala and/or Nicolas Jackson, depending on the way Kompany wants to set his team up.
Besides Kane, Alphonso Davies, Hiroki Ito and Manuel Neuer will miss this match injured. Neuer could get fit in time, but it's rather unlikely that Kompany will risk his starting goalkeeper getting on too early in this important phase of the season.
For Gladbach, Polanski has not suggested any major changes to his tactical approach despite Kane’s absence, insisting the Bavarians remain just as dangerous regardless of who leads the line.
Long-term injured Kleindienst, N'Goumou and Hack will miss this match, while new centre-back Takai is at question. Yannik Engelhardt, who cemented his spot in the starting eleven under Polanski, will miss this match due to a suspension.
Even without Kane, Bayern remain overwhelming favourites heading into the clash. Their attacking depth means Kompany still has several options capable of leading the line or contributing goals from wide areas.
For Gladbach, the challenge will be balancing defensive organisation with the aggressive approach their coach has demanded. If the Foals can execute Polanski’s call for “absolute commitment,” they may yet cause problems, but any slip in concentration against Bayern could quickly prove costly.
Tennis fans have never seen the likes of the recently released 2026 Indian Wells, BNP Paribas Open, men’s doubles draw.
For years, the women’s doubles draws at major tournaments have featured the top ranked singles players teaming together in fun and sometimes unexpected duos. Some of these doubles teams achieved huge success, with the most recent example being the team of Jessica Pegula and Coco Gauff who were French Open finalists and Miami Open champions.
The men have finally caught on, and this year’s Indian Wells men’s doubles tournament will create some exciting moments.
Avid tennis fans will know that the two won the 2021 Atlanta Open together, and in recent years, Opelka has criticized singles players playing doubles and tournaments having doubles at all. The #WatchMoreDoubles movement arose as a result of the Opelka comments.
Novak Djokovic is partnering with Stefanos Tsitsipas who already is out of singles. If anyone can use a career boost, it is Tsitsipas, and we hope this team goes far.
Ben Shelton is partnering with fellow American Emilio Nava who he teased incessantly for his Australian Open loss to Cam Norrie that yielded 65 winners and 80 unforced errors.
Mar 3, 2026; Indian Wells, CA, USA; Ben Shelton (USA) speaks to the media at a news conference during the BNP Paribas Open at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Other teams to keep an eye on are Karen Khachanov and Andrey Rublev, Daniil Medvedev and Learner Tien, Felix Auger-Aliassime and Sebastian Korda, and Brandon Nakashima and Frances Tiafoe, and Acapulco Open doubles champions Alexander Zverev and Marcelo Melo.
There are 32 teams in the Indian Wells men’s doubles draw, and play begins on Sunday, March 8. We will find out how good the Sinner and Opelka team is quickly as their first match is against the top seeded team of Marcel Granollers and Horacio Zelballos. Zeballos won the Indian Wells men’s doubles title in 2019 with Nikola Mektic.
It’s a good thing the Islanders managed three dramatic comeback wins coming out of the Olympic break, because then they headed to southern California and played like doodoo. Actually, their starts and play in SoCal wasn’t that much different from the prior three games, just the bounces and outcomes were a little different.
They followed up a 5-1 loss in Anaheim with a 5-3 loss to the Kings in Los Angeles Thursday. For moments, I had Scott Gordon Era flashbacks, staying up late to watch depressing performances on the West Coast and questioning life choices.
However, this one also had a distinctly Patrick Roy flavor, with a very early goalie pull that provided some surrealist entertainment for the final 8:30 of the game.
Things got off to a weird start when Ilya Sorokin lost his stick in an encounter with Anze Kopitar, and no Islander bothered to sweep it back to him. Even after the Islanders cleared the zone once and the Kings had the puck at their own blueline with all five Isles skaters between them and Sorokin, no one bothered to retrieve the goal stick from the corner.
Sorokin made a couple of sterling, groin-defying saves without his stick, but then they left Artemi Panarin all alone in front, and the Russian was patient in beating his countryman (no)stick side.
This is just frustrating to see. What the hell were they doing and thinking?
In DJ Smith’s second game as interim head coach, the Kings committed two too many men penalties in the second period, one with six skaters and one with seven(!). During an in-game interview, Smith took the heat for it while noting “one by the D, one by the forwards” as too eager to get on.
But what’s the risk? The Islanders power play, rarely inspiring, was downright abysmal. The Kings had the best scoring chances on both advantages.
Meanwhile, the defense continues to be mind-boggling, too:
Speaking of which, the Kings made it 2-0 late in the second period with the Islanders coverage scrambling all over the place. Carson Soucy was bodied off the puck, did well enough (maybe?) to reach and poke the puck around the boards, but it was intercepted, and Soucy spent the intervening time complaining to the ref while covering no one.
Within a couple minutes, it was 3-0.
The Islanders would get one more power play to try to get back into the game, and while they at least gained the zone a few times — progress! — they still posed no threats.
HOWEVER…a J-G Pageau faceoff win and a Bo Horvat bullet led to the all-too-rare faceoff goal with 0.2 seconds left on the clock. Horvat put everything into the shot and whipped it in off the far post. Impressive.
The Islanders followed that up by coming out in the third with a little more pep, but Veteran Experienced Ondrej Palat took an offensive zone slashing penalty, and the Kings cashed in on the ensuing power play to make it 4-1 just 2:30 into the period.
Then Ilya Sorokin sailed a puck over the glass to put the Kings on the power play again, and it looked like we were in for more pain. But that was a failure of the imagination, because I neglected to envision the classic Pageau-Adam Pelech shorthanded 2-on-1, which Pelech finished like an opportunistic sniper to cut the lead to 4-2.
Did that make it a game again? It did not. A 3-on-2-ish from the Kings four minutes later restored the three-goal lead.
Patrick Roy pulled Sorokin for a sixth attacker with over eight minutes left, which provided some late-night entertainment at least. The Islanders mostly controlled the puck and were able to make some goal-saving blocks on Kings empty-net tries.
With 1:59 left and after a few more blocked empty-net tries, the Isles finally got one through. Matthew Schaefer’s point shot was deflected by Emil Heineman past Darcy Kuemper to make it 5-3.
That’s where things would finish, after one final empty-net block by Schaefer. Sorokin got himself a nice long rest. The Isles got zero points from their southern tour.
Up Next
The trade deadline, and then a visit to San Jose Saturday to complete the California swing.
Mohamed Salah: The reason behind Liverpool star’s shocking decline in 2025/26
Only a handful of players in modern football can claim to have impacted an era at a club the way Mohamed Salah has at Liverpool.
For nearly a decade, Salah has established himself as a Liverpool icon and also one of the greatest Premier League players of all time.
But for the first time in his career at Merseyside, the Egyptian is in danger of ending the season without reaching double digits in terms of goals scored.
Across 431 appearances for Liverpool, Salah has notched an extraordinary 252 goals and 121 assists.
Those numbers place him third on Liverpool’s all-time scoring list and give him the record for the most goal contributions for a single club in Premier League history.
But even the most reliable stars can experience difficult moments, so LiverpoolFCNews takes a look at the potential reasons behind Salah’s difficult 2025/26 campaign.
Did Slot know something we didn’t?
Salah scored only his fifth Premier League goal of the season in 21 games during Liverpool’s shocking 2-1 defeat against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux Stadium.
Before his 83rd-minute equaliser, the Egyptian had gone 10 Premier League games without scoring.
Interestingly, Liverpool manager Arne Slot had predicted Salah’s decline since last season, when the Egyptian fired the Reds to their second Premier League title with 29 league goals.
That performance won Salah the Golden Boot and a two-year contract extension.
However, Slot seemed to be certain that the Liverpool talisman wouldn’t reach those numbers again during the remainder of his contract.
When asked about the standards Salah had set, Slot said: “Yeah and standards he’s probably not going to live up to in the upcoming two seasons. I hope he can, but it’s not even necessary.”
While Slot turned out to be right about Salah’s eventual drop off, even he probably didn’t expect such a steep decline in 2025/26.
Salah’s marginal physical decline doesn’t explain shocking drop off
One of the most common explanations for Salah’s drop off is a physical decline.
There were already questions about how much longer Salah can perform at the highest level. But last season’s heroics silenced doubters and convinced Liverpool to give their club legend another two years.
The likes of Jamie Carragher have claimed that age may finally be slowing the Egyptian forward down.
But in fairness to Salah, the numbers suggest that his physical decline has been greatly exaggerated.
Last season, Salah averaged around 15.1 sprints per game in the league. This season, before leaving to play in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), that figure was only slightly lower at 14.8.
That difference is hardly enough to suggest a major drop off in Salah’s energy or effort.
Salah also covered an average of 9.3 kilometres per game in the league last term. This season, his average had actually increased to roughly 9.7 kilometres before the AFCON break.
If anything, those numbers suggest he is working just as hard — if not harder — than he did during Liverpool’s title-winning campaign.
How Arne Slot’s tactical tweak has affected Salah’s output
Having dispelled the notion that Salah isn’t working hard, Slot’s tactical tweaks could be the more plausible explanation for his drop off.
Slot proved last season that he could still get the best out of Salah. The Egyptian’s 47 goal contribution means he was involved in 54.7% of the club’s 86 Premier League goals en route to lifting the title.
But there has been a significant overhaul at Liverpool since.
The arrivals of Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, and Alexander Isak suggest Liverpool are gradually preparing for a future where Salah is no longer the central figure in the attack.
Investing in younger talent is a sensible long-term strategy, but it has also affected how often Salah finds himself in dangerous scoring positions.
The reality of the situation is arguably the main reason for Salah’s drastic decline in output, and the numbers hammer home that point.
Salah is averaging only about 7.5 touches in the box per game this season, a 25% drop compared with the previous three years, when he averaged around 10.
Additionally, only 15% of Salah’s overall touches have come in the box, compared to 21% last year.
It doesn’t take a genius to connect the dots from here, considering fewer touches in the opposition box naturally lead to fewer chances and fewer goals.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Artemi Panarin scored his first goal in a Kings uniform, and Los Angeles beat the New York Islanders 5-3 on Thursday night for the club's first victory under interim head coach D.J. Smith.
Panarin, Mikey Anderson and Adrian Kempe had a goal and an assist apiece for the Kings, and Darcy Kuemper made 31 saves. Samuel Helenius and Alex Laferriere also scored in just Los Angeles' second victory since January.
Kings captain Anze Kopitar had an assist while playing his 1,500th game, becoming the 25th player in NHL history to hit the mark. The Slovenian center, who is retiring this spring after 20 seasons in Los Angeles, is just five points away from passing Marcel Dionne to become the Kings’ career scoring leader.
Bo Horvat scored an improbable goal off a faceoff taken with a second left in the second period for the Islanders, but it didn't prevent a second straight blowout loss for New York in Southern California.
Adam Pelech scored the second short-handed goal of his 11-year career and Ilya Sorokin stopped 30 shots for the Isles, who had won five straight before losing to Anaheim and Los Angeles by a combined 10-4 over the past two nights.
Emil Heineman scored with 1:59 to play while Sorokin was pulled for the final 8 1/2 minutes of the third period.
Panarin had three assists in his first four games with the Kings, who acquired the Russian star from the Rangers and signed him to a $22 million contract extension a month ago.
Panarin finally got his first Kings goal 3:17 after the opening faceoff when Kopitar found him utterly unmarked 10 feet from Sorokin. He also secured his 10th career 20-goal season.
Down 3-0, the Islanders finally scored on an unbelievable play: With one second showing on the clock, Jean-Gabriel Pageau won a faceoff straight to Horvat, who whipped a perfect one-timer past Kuemper's pad for his 26th goal.
Yet with new engine and chassis regulations, and a new team in Cadillac, McLaren are not the frontrunners ahead of the new campaign. Instead, Mercedes’s engine prowess puts them top of the list, with British driver George Russell the favourite with the bookies.
And what about Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton? The seven-time world champion endured a terrible debut year at the Scuderia, failing even to register a podium. However, the 41-year-old and teammate Charles Leclerc looked strong in pre-season testing and are right in contention this weekend.
Here’s how you can watch f1">F1 in the United States this season
When is the Australian Grand Prix?
All times EST
Friday 6 March/Saturday 7 March
Free practice 3: 8:30pm
Qualifying: Midnight
Saturday 7 March
Race: 11pm
F1 will now be streamed on Apple TV in the United States (Getty Images)
How can I watch it online and on TV?
After their deal with ESPN ended, Formula 1 has started a new partnership with apple">Apple TV to be the exclusive home of F1 in the United States until the 2032 season.
Every practice, qualifying and race session will be streamed on Apple TV. You can stream Apple TV for FREE, with Apple TV’s seven-day free trial.
Fans can also use the F1 TV platform as it is bundled with an Apple TV subscription for no extra cost. Subscriptions start at $12.99-a-month or $99-per-year.
Fans will also have the option of watching Sky Sports F1’s broadcast, which was previously used by ESPN.
If you’re travelling abroad and want to watch the Australian Grand Prix then you might need a VPN to unblock your streaming app. Our VPN roundup is here to help.
Excessive engine vibrations keep causing battery failures, to the extent that the team is running out of spares in Melbourne. But those vibrations aren’t wreaking havoc only mechanically, as drivers Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll believe they can’t cover more than 25 or 15 laps consecutively before risking permanent nerve damage to their hands.
Aston Martin became Honda’s works team this season after the Silverstone-based outfit used Mercedes powertrains from 2009 to 2025. Unlike Honda, Mercedes does look very competitive again in F1’s new engine era, and Wolff has made it clear that the German brand did not make the decision to drop Aston Martin as a customer.
“Aston Martin was a client and a partner of Mercedes over those many years and we still deliver engines and other components to the road car side, so that wasn't a Mercedes decision to not go with Aston Martin,” Wolff said. “I think it was a conscious decision to become a works team with Honda with their partner Aramco, and that's why we had to let them go.”
Adrian Newey, Aston Martin Racing
Adrian Newey, Aston Martin Racing
Asked if he would have preferred Mercedes power, Newey replied: “We are where we are with Honda. Obviously our focus now is to work with Honda to get to the best possible place. Being realistic this season is first of all as I mentioned getting on top of this vibration problem so we can run reliably, and from there to see how much performance they can add to the combustion engine in particular.
“Then at the same time of course Honda need to start to be working on the '27 engine because it's clear that a very large step in combustion engine power is needed for '27 and that has to be their sole focus.”
It is telling for Newey to publicly say Honda needs to focus on next year, meaning 2026 is already a write-off for Aston Martin.
The legendary British engineer enjoyed much success in the past with Honda as the Red Bull cars he designed won four consecutive drivers’ titles with Max Verstappen. However, the Japanese manufacturer’s half-baked F1 exit – which ended up being a U-turn – meant its F1 staff was largely renewed for the 2026 project and potentially lacking experience.
Asked if Aston was aware of that lack of experience when it signed the works engine deal, and whether it would have been signed if not, Newey said: “No we weren't. We only really became aware of it kind of November of last year when we – Lawrence [Stroll], Andy Cowell and myself – went to Tokyo to discuss rumours starting to suggest that their original target they wouldn't achieve for race one, and out of that came the fact that many of the original workforce had not returned when they restarted, so no is the answer.”
Fernando Alonso was not able to run during first practice in Melbourne because of problems with his car [Reuters]
Aston Martin's dire start to the season has left Fernando Alonso in a "hard mental place", says team principal Adrian Newey.
Aston Martin are beset by continuing reliability problems with their Honda engine which are preventing any meaningful running.
The Spanish two-time world champion was not able to run in first practice for the Australian Grand Prix because of a problem with his Honda power-unit.
He was able to do 17 laps in the second session but was 4.933 seconds off the pace.
Alonso, 44, has already been in a similar situation with Honda at McLaren from 2015-17, when the engine was unreliable and uncompetitive for three years before the two parties split.
Newey said: "Fernando is one of the true greats. His ability, his talent, his all-round capability, he should have won, in truth, far more than the two championships he has to his name and however many races wins (32).
"I'm not sure how old he is. Nobody quite knows what his age is. But he's still super-quick, super-talented, super-sharp.
"Talking to him, he doesn't think he's suffering in any way. His eyesight is still very good. His reactions, he's very proud of the fact he was the fastest starter last year, in reaction time. So, he's an amazing person.
"We've been trying to contain our hopes because we knew this was going to be a difficult year, a build year. We started very late and on a very compressed cycle on the chassis side, but we knew that meant in the first half of the season we would be able to catch back up and we would very much have done without the distraction that's now caused.
"For Fernando, it's a hard mental place to be in at the moment."
Original Honda workforce went 'to work on solar panels or whatever'
Newey's Red Bull cars prevented Alonso winning at least two further championships, when he was at Ferrari in 2010 and 2012, and the two have long wanted to work together.
Aston Martin signed to become Honda's works partner in May 2023, while the Japanese company was in the course of four consecutive drivers' titles and two constructors' championships with Red Bull.
Newey, a design legend regarded as the finest aerodynamic engineer in F1 history, said Honda's problems were founded in its decision to quit F1 in 2021, only to change its mind on the basis of the new rules that are being introduced this year.
Newey, who joined Aston Martin in March last year, said he and the team did not know about Honda's problems until November, when he, team owner Lawrence Stroll and chief strategy officer Andy Cowell visited Honda's base in Tokyo "to discuss rumours" that the Japanese company "wouldn't achieve" their "original target power".
He added: "Out of that came the fact that many of the original workforce had not returned when they restarted.
"When they reformed, a lot of the original group had it now transpires disbanded and gone to work on solar panels or whatever.
"A lot of the group were new to F1 and didn't have the experience they had previous.
"Plus, when they came back in 2023 that was the first year of the budget cap for engines.
"All their rivals had been developing away through 2021-2022, with continuity, existing team and free of budget cap.
"They re-entered with, let's say, only, I'm guessing, 30% of their original base staff and now in a budget cap era so they started very much on the back foot and unfortunately they have not been able to catch up."
Lance Stroll made a brief appearance in first practice in Melbourne before an engine issue meant he had to return to the garage [Getty Images]
Newey said the current problems are rooted in vibrations from the engine affecting the batteries of the hybrid system. There are only two of those left for the rest of the weekend in Melbourne.
"If we lose one of those then it's obviously a big problem. So we've got to be very careful on how we use the batteries," he said.
"We came here with four batteries. We've had conditioning problems or communication problems with two of those batteries, which means as we sit here today, we've only got two operational batteries. And that, given our kind of rate of battery damage, is quite a scary place to be in.
"Obviously, we're hopeful that we can get through the weekend and start two cars and so on and so forth, but it's very difficult to be concrete at the moment about that."
Newey said that, from his point of view, "I kind of feel a bit powerless because we've clearly got a very significant power-unit problem.
"And our lack of running then also means, at the same time, we're not finding out about the car. So our information on the car itself is very limited because we've done so little running.
"Particularly running at low fuel because running at low fuel… fuel acts as a damper to the battery. So Honda have limited us very much to how much low-fuel running we can do. It just becomes a self-feeding problem. And of course, it's using a lot of energy in the human sense to try to work with Honda and produce the best overall solution."
GREENVILLE, S.C. (AP) — Tennessee has never failed to qualify for the women's NCAA Tournament.
Whether the Lady Vols make a 43rd consecutive appearance remains to be seen.
The program that coach Pat Summitt built into a national powerhouse has fallen on tough times, culminating in Thursday night's 76-64 loss to Alabama in the Southeastern Conference Tournament — Tennessee's seventh straight defeat.
The Lady Vols (16-13) have lost 10 of their last 12 games under second-year coach Kim Caldwell — not exactly the type of closing momentum the NCAA Tournament selection committee typically looks for when choosing the field of 68.
Tennessee will have to rely on its strength of schedule — which included 15 quad-1 games — and early-season accomplishments to get in. The Lady Vols entered at No. 22 in the NET rankings and have wins over Stanford, Alabama and Kentucky.
Caldwell thinks her team deserves to make it.
“I think we have played the hardest schedule in the country and the majority of that came in February,” Caldwell said. “But we have significant wins. We hope to get in and try to continue to be a different team.”
If Tennessee does make it to March Madness, it would be more than a month since its last win.
The frustration for Tennessee began to boil over in the second half.
Leading scorer Talaysia Cooper was replaced with 6:37 left in the third quarter and did not return in what Caldwell called a “coach's decision.” She finished with four points on 1-of-4 shooting.
After the game, Cooper left the locker room with an assistant coach.
“It was a coach's decision and we just wanted to give her some air,” Caldwell said. “Emotions can get running and we wanted to get her outside with a staff member so she could breathe.”
Freshman guard Deniya Prawl did not make the trip to Greenville because she was in the concussion protocol.
The Lady Vols were never all that competitive against Alabama, a team they beat 70-59 on Jan. 18. They never led, fell behind 25-18 in the first quarter and trailed by 17 in the fourth before showing some life in the closing minutes by cutting the lead to 10.
“People weren’t ready," guard Nya Robertson said. “When we’re not ready it shows. We have to be the first one to punch.”
The Lady Vols have lost their last six games by at least eight points and Caldwell said her team will spend extra time at practice working on on-ball and weakside defense.
Two days earlier, guard Kaiya Wynn revealed she was leaving the program ahead of the SEC Tournament after she didn't play on senior night in her final home game.
Wynn, who saw limited action in her return from injury this season, played in 103 games for the Lady Vols from 2021-26.
“This decision was not made lightly or instantly,” Wynn wrote on social media. “For the past five years I have given my all for Tennessee and have not regretted doing so once. ... As someone who has never started a career game, l was hoping to start in my last appearance in Thompson-Boling (Arena). That obviously did not happen, and to be asked to check into the game with 15 seconds left while losing was not how I wanted to spend my final moments in my arena after five years. Although that was not the sole reason, it was the breaking point for me."
The Phoenix Suns have been an impressive team this season, especially with how they have surpassed expectations. With first-year head coach Jordan Ott, the Suns have done well to compete against the best teams in the league.
With Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks leading the charge for the Suns, they are firmly in the postseason spots. An underrated player this season has been Mark Williams, who is now sidelined with an injury for the next few weeks.
Williams' injury opens up new opportunities for other Suns players
Throughout the 2025-26 season, the Suns have struggled with injuries. Jalen Green has barely played this season due to his hamstring issues. Even Booker has missed games, which has made an impact on the roster's potential.
Now, Brooks and Williams are the latest major injuries on the roster. They have juggled many rotations this season, but they still have found a way to compete at the highest level of the Western Conference.
Williams is a major loss for the Suns because he was quite a reliable center for Phoenix. Now, Ott wants his team to step up and prove that the center rotation in Phoenix can compete and beat any team in the league.
"It’ll have an opportunity for both (Oso Ighodaro and Khaman Maluach). It’ll have an opportunity to just continue to take the next step. Next man up. Ready to go," Ott said ahead of their game against the Bulls.
Both players are quite young, but they have the energy and qualities to become good centers. Since the Suns want to play an energetic brand of basketball, they have the traits to become contributors. Ott believes in them, which can go a long way.
MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Formula 1's Aston Martin team principal Adrian Newey said Friday his group was blindsided by the fact its then-incoming works power unit partner Honda had only retained about 30% of its original world championship-winning staff going into the project.
He said that has proven to be a key factor in its struggles to get up to speed for 2026 and came only a day after Newey admitted Aston Martin was unlikely to finish Formula 1’s season-opening Australian Grand Prix on Sunday without its drivers risking permanent nerve damage due to vibration in the cars.
Honda left F1 at the end of 2021, closing out a partnership with Red Bull after a season when Max Verstappen won his maiden title and a move that gave rise to the creation of the energy drinks brand’s own power unit operation.
But while Honda made a slight U-turn in supporting Red Bull by building and servicing its power units to the end of 2025, the Japanese auto manufacturer actually returned to work for Aston Martin at the end of 2022 — with the official announcement made the following year in May 2023 — but in very different form.
“When they reformed, a lot of the original group had — it now transpires — disbanded, and had gone to work on solar panels, or whatever,” Newey said.
“A lot of the group that reformed are actually fresh to Formula 1. They didn’t bring the (championship-winning) experience that they had previously. Plus, when they came back in 2023, that was the first year of the budget cap introduction for engines.”
But Aston Martin was left unaware of Honda’s now-inexperienced workforce until it went to Japan last year in a bid to address rumors it was running behind.
“We only really became aware of it, kind of November of last year when we — Lawrence (Stroll), Andy Cowell and myself went to Tokyo to discuss rumors starting to suggest that their original target power, they wouldn’t achieve for race one,” Newey said.
Stroll completed just three laps in opening practice Friday, with a power unit issue curtailing his running. He finished 21st and last on the timesheet, 30 seconds off the pace.
His two-time world champion teammate Fernando Alonso did not take part in the session after a suspected power unit-related issue was discovered on his car ahead of the first one-hour session.
Maryland Terrapins guard Saylor Poffenbarger (6) and Maryland Terrapins guard Addi Mack (3) guard Oregon Ducks guard Katie Fiso (2) on Thursday, March 5, 2026, during a Big Ten women's basketball tournament game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. | Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
No. 6-seed Maryland women’s basketball had a chance to earn the final shot Thursday night.
Oluchi Okananwa drew an and-one opportunity to potentially cut the deficit to one point. But she missed the free throw.
No. 11-seed Oregon went the other way and head coach Brenda Frese decided not to foul. With 4.4 seconds remaining, guard Avary Cain knocked down a 3-pointer to end Maryland’s run in the Big Ten Tournament after just one game with a 73-68 loss in Indianapolis.
“It felt like deja vu,” Frese said.
Just like the last time it faced Oregon — in College Park in late January — Maryland led by a slim margin heading into the fourth quarter.
That night, the Terps were outscored 24-11 in the fourth. It was 21-11 in favor of Oregon on Thursday.
“They just made a few more plays than we did late game that sent us home,” Frese said.
Maryland’s offense didn’t come through when it needed it most — it made just one 3-pointer on 15 attempts on the night.
The Terps relied on interior scoring in the first half. Of its first 23 points, 22 came from inside the paint — the only other score was a free throw. The game finished with Maryland scoring 48 points in the paint. The other 15 points came from free throws.
But that was too one-dimensional offensively. The Terps attempted 21 layups and seven 3-pointers in the first half. It finished with 33 layups and 16 3-pointers, and made 20 layups compared to one 3-pointer.
As the first half progressed, Oregon adjusted to take away that gameplan. The second quarter started with an 11-2 Ducks run — they simply found more ways to score. Maryland could not find scoring outside of the paint or the charity stripe — its only 3-pointer came with 1:50 remained in the first half.
The Ducks weren’t dominating from deep, either; the game consisted mostly of back-and-forth layups. Still, the lack of success from beyond the arc was relatively uncharted territory for head coach Brenda Frese.
Early on, the Terps were overly cautious in avoiding foul trouble. But it backfired.
Oluchi Okananwa started the game on 3-of-3 shooting and scored six of Maryland’s first eight points. She has dealt with foul trouble in recent games. So Frese opted to have her sit for the remaining six minutes of the first quarter after committing a foul.
But amid the intention to avoid foul trouble, Yarden Garzon committed two quick fouls early in the second quarter.
The referees continued to call a tight game in the third quarter. Okananwa got up to three fouls, and so did Isi Ozzy-Momodu. The Terps were in the exact position they were looking to avoid.
Due to its cautiousness regarding foul trouble, Maryland’s rotations were altered. Breanna Williams had some extended playing time — though it started out well, it turned sour quickly. She made an early layup, but also had some defensive lapses and looked largely out of place.
Maryland relied on its freshmen for 35 collective minutes in the first half. They were impactful, but not as much as its senior leadership, which was hampered by foul trouble.
Okananwa finished with 27 points and was Maryland’s main workhorse. It didn’t end up being enough, but her ability to drive inside gave her team a fighting chance.
“Just be aggressive. Be my normal self. A lot of good things happen for me when I drive,” Okananwa said. “Whether it’s me getting to the line or finishing the bucket. So that was my mentality. Just be aggressive.”
With a loss in the first game of the Big Ten Tournament, what seemed like a sure thing that Maryland would host NCAA Tournament games now looks in jeopardy.
Three things to know
1. A shocking loss. Since joining the Big Ten, this is the first time Maryland failed to reach the quarterfinal round of the conference tournament. Last year, the Terps lost their first game but had a double-bye; this was their worst outing ever in the Big Ten Tournament.
2. What now? With the Terps’ run in Indianapolis now over, they will wait to see if they will host in the NCAA Tournament. Maryland was not the only Big Ten team slated to host that lost on Thursday — Michigan State did too. It remains to be seen what that means for the Terps.
“It shouldn’t be judged off of one game, and I think our conference prepares you night in and night out,” Frese said. “I think you should be rewarded for your body of work.”
3. Garzon’s bad game. Maryland needed more fromGarzon on Thursday and simply didn’t get it, as she shot 1-of-11 from the field and 1-of-9 from deep. If she made one or two of those shots, there’s a good chance Maryland would have won.
CALGARY, Alberta (AP) — Dylan Cozens scored a power-play goal 6:33 into the third period to snap a tie and lift the Ottawa Senators to a 4-1 win over the Calgary Flames on Thursday night.
Brady Tkachuk found Cozens alone in front and he beat Devin Cooley on the blocker side to give the Senators a 2-1 lead. Tim Stutzle and Shane Pinto added empty-netters for the final score. Lars Eller also had a goal as the Senators, who are 7-1-2 in their last 10 games, moved within four points of the Boston Bruins for the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference.
Eller’s goal ended a 34-game goalless drought. His last goal came on Oct. 30 against Calgary.
Linus Ullmark made 19 stops to improve to 8-0-3 in his last 11 decisions.
Martin Pospisil scored his first goal of the season for Calgary and Cooley made 33 saves.
Ottawa has been strong of late with the man advantage, entering the game 5 for 12 over its previous five games. The Senators finished 1 for 4 against Calgary.
Down 2-1, the Flames got a power play of their own with just over three minutes to go in the third period. But Stutzle intercepted Yegor Sharangovich's pass and scored into the empty net to put the game on ice.
Stutzle extended his point streak to 11 games (seven goals, eight assists).
The loss dropped the Flames to 31st overall in the league standings, ahead of only the Vancouver Canucks. Calgary is 0-3-1 in its last four games.
The Calgary Flames dropped a 4–1 decision to the Ottawa Senators Thursday night at the Scotiabank Saddledome, in a game where strong goaltending kept Calgary within reach but Ottawa capitalized when it mattered most.
The Senators pushed the pace early, applying pressure in the opening minutes, but Flames goaltender Devin Cooley held firm. He turned aside all eight shots he faced in the first period and came up with a key pad save in the final minute to keep the game scoreless.
Calgary broke through late in the frame. Rookie Matvei Gridin tracked down a loose puck and slid it across to Martin Pospisil, who tucked it past Linus Ullmark at 17:04 for his first goal of the season.
The Flames carried a 1–0 lead into the intermission.
The remainder of the period featured tight checking and solid goaltending at both ends, sending the teams into the third period deadlocked.
Special teams made the difference in the final frame.
After drawing multiple penalties, Ottawa converted on their second power-play opportunity. During a battle along the boards, Brady Tkachuk dug the puck free and spotted Dylan Cozens alone in the slot. Cozens quickly picked his corner and snapped the puck past Cooley at 6:33 to give the Senators their first lead of the night.
With Calgary pressing late and the net empty, Tim Stützle sealed the victory with an empty-net goal, extending his point streak to 11 games and Shane Pinto scored again into the empty net securing the 4–1 Ottawa win.
Even in a loss, Devin Cooley looked composed and confident, making 35 saves. The Flames netminder made several timely saves and kept Calgary within striking distance throughout the game. Performances like this suggest he could be pushing for a larger role moving forward, and the Saddledome crowd responded to his effort like he’s quickly becoming a fan favourite.
2. Youth movement on the power play
The Flames’ first power-play unit featured young talent on the blue line, with Zayne Parekh and Matvei Gridin handling duties at the point. It’s a glimpse of the organization’s future as Calgary begins leaning more on its developing prospects.
3. Trade deadline uncertainty
With the NHL trade deadline approaching, Thursday’s game could potentially mark the final appearance in a Flames sweater for veterans Nazem Kadri or Blake Coleman. After the Weegar trade, Calgary’s roster could see more movement in the coming day.
Mount Si was the No. 1 seed in the 4A state tournament, but it felt like No. 7 Emerald Ridge wasn’t clued in to that fact. Considering how fast the Jaguars came out of the gate on Thursday, the energy felt as carefree and loose as a January game in South Hill.
Emerald Ridge wasn’t afraid or intimated by the number next to Mount Si’s name. The Jaguars started fast, leading 36-31 at half and controlling the action for most of the game. When Mount Si finally rallied in the fourth quarter, it was too little, too late.
Emerald Ridge hung to win, 67-62, stunning the top-seeded Wildcats.
“It’s a huge win,” said guard Jordan Bennett, who scored 15 points. “Nobody believed in us coming into this and we just knocked off the No. 1 seed. That shows how much we’ve built as a program and built as a team.”
The fast start was key, according to Jaguars coach Pat Mullen.
“We wanted to make sure that we were the first ones — we didn’t want to react to them, we wanted to make sure we were the ones making them react to us,” Mullen said. “We didn’t want to play on our heels, we wanted to make sure we were playing downhill. Our guys did a good job of that.”
Emerald Ridge 6-foot-7 forward Jamaize McGriff, the team’s heartbeat, went to the bench early in the second quarter after picking up his second foul, but Emerald Ridge never skipped a beat.
“Next man up, basically,” Bennett said. “We know we can’t play the whole season. Maybe an injury happens. So we know we can’t play that game, just next man up.”
Bouncy Mount Si forward Latt Ford had his moments and scored 23 points, but Emerald Ridge’s guards kept pace. Bennett scored 15, Ellis Mosley scored a team-high 19, Mychal Turner scored 13 and Darius Alexander scored seven. McGriff added nine.
Even before Thursday’s game tipped off, Emerald Ridge had already made history. Wednesday’s win over Redmond was the first state tournament win for the program. Now, new heights, again.
An entirely different challenge awaits: Defensive-minded No. 5 Gonzaga Prep, the defending state champion, which defeated Puyallup in double overtime in the game before Emerald Ridge’s game.
“Probably one of the top three programs in the state in the last 10 years,” Mullen said. “They’re solid, they do things the right way, they make you work for every possession. So it’s another great challenge for us. We’ve just gotta get ourselves down to earth and come out the way we play.”
Emerald Ridge faces Gonzaga Prep at 7:15 p.m. on Thursday in the semifinals at the Tacoma Dome.
With a baseline fadeaway in the first quarter, LeBron James made his 15,838th basket, passing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (15,837) for the most field goals made in NBA history.
LeBron, 41 and in his 23rd NBA season, passed Abdul-Jabbar in points scored in February 2023, but because the 3-point shot didn't exist for some of Abdul-Jabbar's career, he made more field goals to get his points (Abdul-Jabbar made one in his 20 NBA seasons, on 18 attempts). LeBron is also the leading scorer in NBA playoff history and is the only player in NBA history to have more than 50,000 points in the regular season and postseason combined.
LeBron also has attempted more field goals than any player in NBA history.
Michigan added another piece of history to its remarkable season Thursday night, even if the performance itself wasn’t flawless. However, the win was one to take pride in.
The No. 3 Wolverines held on for a 71-68 win at Iowa, finishing Big Ten road play with a perfect 10-0 record. The victory made Michigan the first Big Ten team in 50 years to complete a conference schedule unbeaten in true road games, joining Indiana’s legendary 1975-76 squad under Bob Knight.
That Hoosiers team went 9-0 in an 18-game conference schedule on its way to an undefeated national championship season. The Wolverines’ run is particularly notable given the difficulty of their road slate.
ROAD WARRIORS 😤
Michigan is the first Big Ten team in 50 years to finish a season undefeated in true road games (Indiana in '75-'76) 🔥 pic.twitter.com/1TZO4W63y0
Michigan went through some of the conference’s toughest environments and defeated several elite opponents away from home. This included teams ranked among the top 10 in KenPom metrics such as Purdue, Michigan State and Illinois.
Thursday’s win may have been the most difficult of the group. Iowa played with urgency and nearly erased Michigan’s late lead in a game that carried a postseason atmosphere.
The Wolverines have survived several close calls away from home this season, including tight games at Northwestern and Penn State. But they've consistently found ways to win. For Dusty May's team, that's what has kept them as an elite all season long.
Michigan’s resilience on the road could prove invaluable as the postseason approaches. This might be one storyline to watch into March Madness.
Dylan Cozens snapped a 1-1 tie early in the third period as the Senators went on to defeat the Calgary Flames 4-1 on Thursday night in the second game of their four-game Western road swing.
The victory looked nothing like Ottawa’s previous stop in Alberta. Two nights earlier in Edmonton, the Senators lost 5-4 in overtime after squandering a 4-2 third-period lead.
Thursday’s game in Calgary was the polar opposite as the Sens outshot the Flames 37-20.
Calgary opened the scoring late in the first period when Martin Pospisil capitalized on an Ottawa turnover. Senators defenceman Nick Jensen accidentally over-skated the puck in his own zone, allowing Calgary to pounce. Pospisil finished the play for his first goal of the season, sending the Flames to the intermission with a 1-0 lead.
Ottawa answered midway through the second period, and the goal ended a lengthy drought for Lars Eller. Eller snapped home a shot off a beautiful feed from Ridly Greig to tie the game at 1. The goal was Eller’s third of the season and his first since October 30.
The game remained tight heading into the third period before the Sens finally broke through on the power play.
At 6:33, Cozens ripped a wrist shot past Calgary goaltender Devin Cooley, the game's first star with 35 saves. The goal gave Ottawa its first lead and it stood up as the game-winner.
The finish wasn’t without a little drama.
Artem Zub was called for a penalty with just over three-and-a-half minutes to play, giving Calgary a late power-play opportunity. The Flames pulled their goaltender to create a 6-on-4, but this just in, the Flames don't have the Oilers' power play and Ottawa’s much-maligned penalty kill held firm.
Tim Stützle and Shane Pinto put the game away with a pair of empty net goals. Stutzle's was a shorthanded effort, while Pinto’s goal was meaningless but welcome. He had entered the game with just three goals in his last 26 games.
Stützle was held off the scoresheet for most of the night before his late goal, but for the second straight game he may have been Ottawa’s best player, consistently driving play and creating chances.
The win was an important one for the Senators as they try to keep their slim playoff hopes alive.
Ottawa not only picked up two points in Calgary, but also got some help out of town. The Nashville Predators defeated the Boston Bruins 6-3 on Thursday night, tightening the Eastern wild-card race.
With 21 games still to play, the Senators now sit four points behind Boston for the final wild-card spot and six points back of the Montreal Canadiens, who hold the first wild card.
With the trade deadline less than a day away (Friday at 3 pm), Thursday's results won't necessarily push general manager Steve Staios into full buyer mode, but the Sens still have every reason to believe they can claw their way back in the race.
Sanju Samson delivered a sensational performance in the T20 World Cup 2026 semi final against England at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, producing one of the finest knocks by an Indian batter in a knockout match of the tournament.
The right hander smashed a brilliant 89 off just 42 balls, striking eight fours and seven sixes at a staggering strike rate of 211.90. With this innings, Samson equalled Virat Kohli’s record for the highest score by an Indian batter in a T20 World Cup knockout match. Kohli had earlier scored 89 not out off 47 balls against West Indies in the 2016 semi final at the same venue.
Samson’s knock now stands as the joint highest score by an Indian in a T20 World Cup knockout and also the highest score by an Indian wicketkeeper in such matches.
The innings continued Samson’s outstanding form in the tournament. Coming into the semi final after an unbeaten 97 against West Indies in the final Super Eight game, which effectively served as a knockout clash, the Kerala batter once again played with authority and confidence. The knock also reflected how he has overcome earlier struggles this year to deliver when it matters most.
The innings also helped Samson create another record. With 16 sixes in the ongoing edition, he now holds the record for the most sixes by an Indian in a single T20 World Cup tournament. He surpassed Rohit Sharma’s previous mark of 15 sixes set during the 2024 edition. Shivam Dube also has 15 sixes in the 2026 tournament, while Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya have struck 14 each.
Overall in the tournament so far, Samson has scored 232 runs in just four matches at an impressive average of 77.33 and a strike rate of 201.73. His campaign includes two half centuries, with his highest score being the unbeaten 97 against West Indies in Kolkata during the Super Eight stage.
The World Baseball Classic is well underway, and the last tournament winners, Team Samurai Japan, are looking to repeat as champions of the world.
In 2023, Team Samurai Japan defeated Team USA 3-2, which ended in an epic showdown between former teammates Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout.
Ohtani struck out Trout in the bottom of the ninth on a 3-2 slider.
Team Samurai Japan enters this year's tournament with a record of eight players on a current MLB roster.
Of the eight players, the 2025 World Series MVP, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, leads the charge for Team Samurai Japan's starting rotation.
He is coming off a 2025 campaign in which he improved as the calendar kept progressing.
During the regular season, he posted a 2.49 ERA in 173.1 innings pitched. He notched 30 starts and struck out 201 batters enroute to his first All-Star bid.
The Dodgers began their trek towards back-to-back World Series titles, with Yamamoto at the helm.
In six appearances during the postseason, he recorded an astounding 1.45 ERA in 37.1 innings pitched.
He also recorded two consecutive complete games in Game Two of the National League Championship Series and Game Two of the 2025 World Series.
Yamamoto's contributions to the Dodgers in 2025 were historic, and he now enters into yet another pressure-filled environment.
With pool play set to open up on Friday, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts revealed Yamamoto's innings limit on Thursday.
According to Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic, Yamamoto will throw three innings in Team Samurai Japan's opener against Chinese Taipei.
Dave Roberts said Yoshinobu Yamamoto is slated to throw three innings tonight (tomorrow morning) for Samurai Japan.
The countdown to the 2026 World Cup is on! Each day ahead of the tournament’s return to North America, Yahoo Sports will highlight an insight or moment that showcases just how grand the world’s biggest sporting spectacle has become — even beyond the expanded field of this year’s global event.
The 2026 World Cup is just built different.
For the first time, this year’s World Cup will feature 48 teams instead of 32, a massive expansion approved by FIFA that reshapes the competition after nearly three decades of the same format. From 1998 to 2022, the World Cup field held steady at 32 nations. This June, it gets a lot more crowded.
The scale of the event is changing in other ways, too.
The 2026 version will be staged across three host countries — the United States, Canada and Mexico — the first time the World Cup has spanned that many nations. Mexico will become the first country to host matches at three separate tournaments, having previously staged the tourney in 1970 and 1986.
Those earlier editions produced some of the sport’s most iconic moments. In 1970, Pelé led Brazil to the title in his final World Cup. Sixteen years later the event was back in the country with Diego Maradona helping Argentina to the title over West Germany.
This will be the first time hosting for Canada and second time for the U.S. following the 1994 World Cup, which helped ignite modern professional soccer in the country.
With 16 more teams qualifying, that means more matches will take place across North America than in previous World Cups. The 32-team tournaments had 64 total matches. The 2026 World Cup will feature 104 in 38 days.
Even the final is getting a refresh. The championship match at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium on July 19 will include a Super Bowl-style halftime show produced by Coldplay manager Phil Harvey and lead singer Chris Martin — a break that could surpass the traditional 15-minute halftime outlined in soccer’s Laws of the Game.
TAMPA, FL - FEBRUARY 24: Oswaldo Cabrera #95 of the New York Yankees participates in a spring training workout at George M. Steinbrenner Field on February 24, 2026 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by New York Yankees/Getty Images) | Getty Images
New York Daily News | Peter Sblendorio: On May 12th of last year, utilityman Oswaldo Cabrera broke his ankle in one of the more gruesome injuries you’ll watch in real time. It’s taken quite a bit of rehab for Cabrera in the ensuing ten months, but he’ll finally play something close to competitive ball today, with Aaron Boone announcing Waldo’s spring debut (coinciding with Cam Schlittler’s). Cabrera is more of a depth piece, and certainly a glue guy, rather than one of the stars the Yankees are looking to turn to, but I’m happy he’s back all the same.
MLB.com | Bryan Hoch: The Yankees acquired lefty Ryan Weathers from the Marlins over the winter, and his stuff raised serious eyebrows in his first spring start for the Bombers. A possible breakout may be genetic for Weathers, whose father won two World Series, one with the Blue Jays and one with the 1996 Yankees. It goes even a step further, as David Weathers was also dealt from the Marlins to the Yankees, although it seems clear that the son has more natural talent. It’s not quite clear yet what Ryan’s role will be with the Yanks, but if that stuff plays, he’ll be called upon to do quite a bit.
Yahoo! Sports | Matthew Schmidt: Another winter trade hasn’t quite started so optimistically. Angel Chivilli was nabbed from the Rockies with clearly an eye to his powerful fastball and low walk rate, but he hasn’t looked great in Grapefruit League action. He gave up six runs against the Twins yesterday, and with a number of pitchers all competing for the final slots in the Yankee bullpen, it seems increasingly likely Chivilli will start the year with Triple-A Scranton.
Wednesday night’s win may be the last time these players all celebrate a victory together. | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Welcome to Deadline Day, everyone.
The writers here at All About the Jersey have been writing about trades, roster construction, the big picture and whether Tom Fitzgerald should even still be around to make these kinds of decisions in the lead-up to the trade deadline. Please see the links below for the last several articles.
Given all of the topics at hand in these articles, I think Gerard’s last article before the trade deadline really captures the sentiment among the New Jersey Devils fanbase right now. He hit on the Simon Nemec issue in that article, but it has even seemed like there’s something smoldering there given the news earlier in the evening that Nemec has fired his agent, J.P. Barry, per Elliotte Friedman, who also said that Paul Cotter’s name has come up in trade discussions. Of course, Barry represented only two Devils prior to Nemec going for a new agent: Nemec and Dougie Hamilton. Barry seems to have come at odds with Tom Fitzgerald over the last couple seasons between last year’s handling of Nemec and the business of Dougie Hamilton earlier this year, so I am not sure how much should be read into the change. If he wanted someone to play hardball with Fitzgerald, I am not sure he could get someone more willing to do so than Barry.
But in the above articles, you see some arguments for an aggressive approach, such as the one from Jared. Gerard, understandably, is not comfortable with Fitzgerald making big moves for the team at this point. I suggested a range of moves, from small-scale and low-risk options to big overhaul ideas in my trade targets article. Meanwhile, I think Jackson did a really good job of going through the value of the players on the Devils in his article on March 2. Give those articles a look and feel free to quote and discuss them in the comments here while we wait for actual trade action.
News-wise, the Devils have already made some moves. They have waived Luke Glendening, Evgenii Dadonov, and Maxim Tsyplakov. They will be around $7 million in cap space if those players are unclaimed but reassigned to Utica, though they can save even more if Tsyplakov is claimed or traded after clearing. I do not see the former two as parts of the Devils’ end of the season, let alone the future, though, so this is probably best for everyone. Glendening could still take some fourth-line faceoffs for a playoff hopeful in a pinch, while Dadonov might be able to latch on somewhere and get his game straight before the season ends. We will see what happens with these three.
If you are following the deadline on Twitter, I implore you to stay glued to Elliotte Friedman’s feed. Some insiders will have reported deals fall through, but it seems a genuine rarity for Friedman. Otherwise, Pierre LeBrun seems to get the scoops directly from Tom Fitzgerald in case there is some Devils action brewing (or not brewing and Fitzgerald wants to get his explanations out there). Bob McKenzie, now retired, will not be on TSN Trade Centre, but he has said he will make a short appearance in the early morning, for those who can watch. Hopefully, TSN’s coverage remains solid without him.
For those of you who do not know, the official trade deadline is at 3:00 PM Eastern Time. Trades must be submitted to the league office by that time. We may still hear of trades some time afterwards, but the action should be done by the early evening.
Michael Olise (Bayern Munich) looks on during Matchday 24 1.Bundesliga: Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich at Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund, Germany on February 28 2026. (Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images
Bayern Munich is not going to let Michael Olise go anywhere, any time soon.
That fact, however, is not stopping Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, and Manchester City from sniffing around and maybe laying the groundwork for a later move:
Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester City, and Liverpool have made contact with Bayern Munich regarding a €100 million move for winger Michael Olise, according to TEAMtalk. The Bundesliga side have reportedly dismissed inquiries to sign the 24-year-old from all three clubs, with Real Madrid and Barcelona also monitoring the situation, and Olise reportedly viewing LaLiga as a preferable destination. Meanwhile, Florian Plettenberg says that the Reds are set to change their focus to 19-year-old RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, who is seen as a more feasible signing at around €80 million. His impressive campaign of nine goals and five assists in 23 league matches has seen him linked with several teams across Europe.
Olise’s talent is too undeniable for these clubs to not take a run. It does seem like Olise is pretty content to stay with Bayern Munich, though. The Frenchman’s rise has been quite remarkable and if he keeps producing, the attention surely is not going to go away.
Juventus might be planning a very active summer in the transfer market. Check this out:
Juventus are looking at free-agent midfielders for the summer, while they also aim to sign a partner for Dusan Vlahovic if they can renew the striker’s contract, a goalkeeper, a center back and a full back, reports Tuttosport. The two priority midfielders are Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva and Bayern Munich’s Leon Goretzka, although there is competition from Internazionale and Arsenal for the latter, and they are also looking at Al Ahli’s Franck Kessié and RB Leipzig’s Xaver Schlager. TEAMtalk says that Juve are more likely to let Jonathan David leave this summer if they can convince Vlahovic to sign new terms.
According to Sport Bild’s Christian Falk, Real Madrid is actually not interested in Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck:
❌ It is NOT TRUE: Bayern are worried about Real Madrid interest in Nico Schlotterbeck. They made the decision that they would look at signing a new centre-back had Dayot Upamecano not agreed on signing a new contract. But the Frenchman did put pen to paper! So, Bayern have decided on Upamecano – though not against Schlotterbeck, it should be emphasised. He would have been a sound alternative had FC Bayern needed a defender. So, they don’t see a situation where this topic would be brought to the table again. Even if Kim Min-jae were to leave the club, they don’t need a player like the Borussia Dortmund defender, because then you have three number one centre-backs between Jonathan Tah, Upamecano and Schlotterbeck! They would need a player behind the first-choice partnership, and this simply isn’t Nico Schlotterbeck.
I talked with my colleagues at BILD, who are reporting on Dortmund, and they think that Real Madrid’s interest in the 26-year-old is serious. I’m not sure if negotiations have begun with BVB, but they are keeping an eye on him, as are Premier League clubs like Liverpool. Manchester City, historically, have also had interest. Barcelona are not interested, and that situation is unlikely to change because they can’t currently afford his services.
We have a feeling that Schlotterbeck is going to get a lot of attention on the open market, though.
Chelsea could already have seen enough of striker Liam Delap:
Chelsea are prepared to let Liam Delap leave Stamford Bridge in the summer transfer window amid growing interest from Premier League rivals. The 23-year-old has endured a difficult season since joining from Ipswich Town last summer with just two goals to his name after 25 appearances in all competitions. Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that after his performance against Hull City in the FA Cup, doubts about Delap‘s future at Chelsea have grown.
“I think Chelsea will be open to letting Delap leave,” Brown told Football Insider. “He hasn’t impressed as much as they hoped he might when they signed him from Ipswich, and I was surprised he went there in the first place, to be honest. I watched Chelsea against Hull, my old club, in the FA Cup and was disappointed with Delap. Normally when you watch him, you know roughly what you’re going to get. He’s aggressive, competitive, likes to battle for the ball and bully defenders.
“But his performance didn’t look like one of a young, hungry, aggressive striker looking to prove himself and cement his place in the team. He was wasteful with his opportunities in front of goal, and it was left again to Pedro Neto to do the business in that department. For a team like Chelsea, who are going to have ambitions of winning silverware, I think you need a striker who is going to be a regular source of goals. Delap hasn’t done anything yet to show me that’s who he is going to be, so I’m sure they’ll be looking at other options and that might mean they let him go if a big offer comes in.”
While Real Madrid might not be ready to take a run at BVB’s Nico Schlotterbeck, it could be interested in Arsenal center-back Gabriel Magalhães:
Real Madrid have made an enquiry about Arsenal center back Gabriel Magalhães, according to TeamTalk. The Premier League leaders quickly informedMadrid that the 28-year-old is not available at any price. Gabriel signed a long-term contract extension last summer. Having also secured deals to extend the stays of Bukayo Saka and William Saliba, Arsenal are reportedly determined to show that even a club as big as Madrid can’t take their top players.
If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast, Spotify, Apple, or any leading podcast distributor…
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JANUARY 24: Sean O'Malley of the United States celebrates after defeating Song Yadong of China during their bantamweight bout in UFC 324 at T-Mobile Arena on January 24, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ian Maule/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Welcome to Midnight Mania!
Let’s start the night off by taking a look back over the three biggest stories of Thursday, March 5, 2026.
I owe my readers an apology. Last month, I expressed my belief that after Justin Tafa’s latest defeat at UFC 325, the promotion would be Tafa-less. As it turns out, I was WRONG!
EXCLUSIVO: fui informado que Kevin Christian iniciou preparação para encarar Júnior Tafa em 2 de maio, UFC Perth pic.twitter.com/j0y9LRlOGL
— Léo Walker Guimaraes (@leoguimaraesmma) March 4, 2026
Max Holloway’s spinning kick is one of the coolest signature strikes in recent years.
Stop scrolling and watch Max Holloway throw spinning back kicks
STOP DUCKING @LoganPaul .. bro tryna fight an NFL player that’s never fought before .. let’s set it up bro, we all heard you say you can beat any NFL player .. we can fight in April, the NFL draft is in PITTSBURGH .. we can fight NFL draft weekend! let’s make it happen pic.twitter.com/tf2SfvE4tr
A.) you’re not in the NFL B.) you can actually fight so I’d have to properly train, meaning I’d have to step away from WWE (which I won’t do, especially not for you) C.) There’s no money here because you’re not a draw. Prove me otherwise
KNOCK OUT UNLIMITED Featherweight Champ and former LFA Flyweight Champ Carlos Mota 🇧🇷 (@mota_tizil) will make his RIZIN debut this Saturday at #RIZIN52
Arizona softball catcher Sydney Stewart celebrates as she runs the bases following a home run against BYU on Mar. 5, 2026 at Hillenbrand Stadium | Photo courtesy of Arizona Athletics
Arizona head coach Caitlin Lowe did not want the 2026 Big 12 softball season to start the way the 2025 one did. Last year, the Wildcats were upset by UCF in the opening series of conference play. There was no such letdown this year as No. 13 Arizona defeated the BYU Cougars 13-1 in five innings at Hillenbrand Stadium.
“They really took it upon themselves to make a statement and just wanting to set a tone for conference,” Lowe said.
It was Arizona’s sixth straight run-rule victory. The players felt that it should be the expectation.
“I think that’s what we’re capable of every single game, and we should keep working towards that goal,” said junior centerfielder Regan Shockey. “And our next focus is just the next game. Do the same exact thing.”
There was an early suggestion that there might be a repeat of last year. A defensive lapse in right field allowed BYU leadoff Lily Owens to reach third base. A one-out double by Hailey Shuler drove her in to give the Cougars an early lead.
After the team’s postgame huddle, right fielder Grace Jenkins spent a considerable amount of time talking to Lowe one-on-one. The head coach could be seen pointing towards right field as if she was explaining fielding and placement.
“We were talking softball, man,” Lowe said. “So, debrief on the day and where she’s at. And she’s a catcher playing the outfield, and she’s doing awesome at it. She is a true athlete and has the high expectations for herself, so I think sometimes she needs to give herself a little grace that she’s kicking butt at it, and she’s great out there. She just wants to be the best.”
Arizona starter Jalen Adams kept the first-inning damage to a minimum. She only needed four more pitches to get the final two outs of the inning.
“Proud of the response after [BYU] scoring a run in the first inning,” Lowe said.
Any confidence the run might have inspired in the Cougars was quickly squashed by the Wildcats’ response with the bats. Arizona sent 15 to the plate and scored 11 runs in the bottom of the first. Eight of those runs came with two outs. Catcher Sydney Stewart drove five in with a 3-run double and a 2-run homer.
After the home run, the lights at Hillenbrand began to flash in what the program’s social media called “party lights.”
“I thought it was pretty cool,” Stewart said. “One time, I think it was like after practice, late practice, they were practicing [the lights]. Like, why don’t we do this? But seeing it today when I was rounding second, like, there’s no way that just happened right now. Just super cool.”
Lowe was pleased with the way her entire offense passed the bat in the opening frame. While there were two doubles and a home run in the inning, small ball was a big part of the scoring, too. The Wildcats had five singles and four walks in the bottom of the first. They also took advantage of two wild pitches and a stolen base.
“I thought they were perfectly themselves in that first inning,” Lowe said. “As far as not trying to do too much, they stayed true to who they were as hitters, and then just went to work…I think you can see how fast it can happen when it gets contagious that way.”
BYU starter Gianna Mares was responsible for all 11 runs. Shuler moved from designated player to pitcher after Stewart’s home run. She walked Jenkins and allowed her to move up on a wild pitch, but Shuler finally got the final out with a groundout by Emma Kavanagh.
Stewart is known for her big bat and driving in runs. Arizona’s scoring in the second inning came from players with radically different offensive games.
A single, a walk, and a fielder’s choice put runners on the corners with one out for the Wildcats. That brought up Shockey. The centerfielder already had two RBI from the first inning. She picked up her third of the game in the second frame. It almost doubled her season total to 7.
“I didn’t want to change my plan,” Shockey said. “I bounced the ball, and my goal is just to move them over or get on for the next person. I wasn’t thinking of scoring the two runs [in the first inning] because I know who’s behind me, and that’s Sereniti [Trice], and that’s Stew, and that’s Tayler [Biehl]. So my goal was just to bounce the ball and get on. It just happened to score two, but I try to keep it as simple as possible.”
Shockey went 2 for 4 on the day. She scored 2 runs in addition to driving in 3 more. It improved her season average to .443.
Trice was a perfect 3 for 3 with 2 runs scored and 2 RBI. Her average is now up to a team-high .542. She also leads the team with 39 hits. Shockey is second with 31. Trice is fourth on the squad with 18 RBI.
Adams pitched 4.0 innings and improved her record to 10-3. Her ERA dropped to 2.91. She gave up just 1 hit. The only BYU run was unearned. Three errors were committed behind her.
Sophomore Jenae Berry pitched the final inning. She did not give up a hit, but she allowed two baserunners on a walk and a hit batter. She also threw a wild pitch.
The Wildcats and the Cougars will take the field again on Friday afternoon before finishing the series on Saturday, Mar. 7.
SOUTH BEND, INDIANA - OCTOBER 14: Head coach Marcus Freeman of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish looks on prior to the game against the USC Trojans at Notre Dame Stadium on October 14, 2023 in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) | Getty Images
During the Notre Dame football off-season, we like to talk a lot about the different rivalries the Irish have in football. We have developed a particular language for how we discuss these games — given that more than half a dozen teams have been considered as Notre Dame’s rivals over the years.
We use the terms “BIG R” and “little r” and we have come to a general consensus as to which teams are what. The USC Trojans are THE rival for Notre Dame (BIG R) but there has always been another rival that exists… the Michigan Wolverines. Neither program, is on Notre Dame’s football schedule until 2032 when the Irish make a trip to Ann Arbor with a Skunkbear visit to South Bend in 2034.
When Marcus Freeman went on Good Morning Football, he was interviewed by Irish legend, Manti Te’o. The former Notre Dame linebacker asked Coach Freeman which team, of the two, does he want back on the schedule right now — Freeman said USC without any hesitation.
Honestly, I have no doubt that once the most infamous coward Lincoln Riley, and the incompetent Jen Cohen, get run out of L.A. on a rail — the greatest intersectional rivalry in college football will also return.
GREENVILLE, SC – Lady Vols basketball freshman Deniya Prawl did not travel with the team to the SEC Tournament because of a concussion.
No. 6 seed Tennessee (16-13) lost its first game of the SEC Tournament to No. 11 seed Alabama (23-9), falling 76-64 at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 5.
"Lauren (Hurst) clocked her in the head, the first day back of practice, so she’s in concussion protocol and couldn’t travel," Caldwell said.
The 6-foot-2 guard has been a solid piece of the rotation for Tennessee. Prawl has averaged 3.8 points, 2.6 rebounds and a steal in 15.4 minutes per game while shooting 40.4% from the field.
Prawl, a Toronto native, was a five-star recruit ranked No. 17 in the 2025 class. She's one of three McDonald's All-Americans in Tennessee's freshman class along with Mia Pauldo and Jaida Civil.
The Minnesota Twins are in a gray area between rebuilding and winning now, but second baseman/outfielder Luke Keaschall exemplifies why the former option is best for the organization. The 23-year-old went 3-for-4 with a homer and four RBIs in Thursday's 15-0 spring training win over the New York Yankees, an explosive outing after starting the spring 4-for-17 with two RBIs.
Keaschall's home run was a 395-foot solo shot to left center in the top of the third inning that gave Minnesota a 2-0 lead. Then, the California native hit an infield single that plated two runs after two errors by the Yankees in the fourth, and he hit a two-run single in the fifth.
Thursday wasn't the first time that Keaschall played well in the big leagues. The 6-foot, 190-pounder slashed .302/.382/.445 with four homers, 28 RBIs, and 14 stolen bases over 49 games last season, which earned him a First Team All-Rookie spot. He's making the Twins look smart for picking him 49th overall in the 2023 MLB Draft.
If young players like Keaschall and third baseman Royce Lewis keep playing well, it'll be obvious what the organization must do moving forward.
Both Keaschall and Lewis have shown promise, but have yet to establish themselves as franchise cornerstones. The latter player has a career slash line of .252/.310/.762 with 46 homers and 156 RBIs over 258 career games since 2022 and has never had a fully healthy season. Meanwhile, Keaschall still needs to play a full big-league campaign.
But if at least one of those players breaks out in 2026, it will become even more obvious that the Twins should trade veteran stars Joe Ryan and Byron Buxton for young players. Both players are in their primes, and Ryan has a mutual option in 2027 while Buxton is under contract through 2028. It's unlikely that Minnesota will be ready to contend in that window, as it has little top-end talent outside of that duo. Starting pitcher Pablo Lopez is one of MLB's better hurlers, but he's out for 2026 due to a UCL tear in his right elbow.
If Minnesota deals those veterans for prospects and/or young big-leaguers, it could rebuild with a young squad led by Keaschall and/or Lewis. The Athletics are a model example, as shortstop Jacob Wilson and first baseman Nick Kurtz are now two of MLB's best young players after being drafted in 2023 and 2024, respectively. The A's aren't contending yet, but that duo provides a foundation.
Up next for the Twins is a spring training matchup with the Atlanta Braves on Friday at 6:05 p.m. ET.
APPLETON – A late rally fueled by a flurry of timely free-throw shooting allowed the Tritons to pull off the victory and knock the defending WIAA Division 1 state champs out of the playoffs.
Destiny Webster scored 18 points to lead Notre Dame (23-4), which advances to play Stevens Point in a sectional final March 7 at 1 p.m. at D.C. Everest High School.
Kaia Waldrop added 13 points for the Tritons.
Haylie Dulas had 14 points and Emily Urban scored 12 to pace Kimberly (22-5).
The score was tied at 42 in the second half, but the Tritons embarked on a 12-6 run to ice the game. With the score 49-47 with 1:31 left in the game, Notre Dame connected on 6 of 8 from the free throw line to seal the win.
Notre Dame 24 30 – 54
Kimberly 21 27 – 48
Notre Dame: O. Waldrop 1, Webster 18, Cumicek 6, Hinz 5, K. Waldrop 13, Breese 10, Abel 1. 3-pt: Webster, Cumicek 2. FTs: 13-19. Fouls: 17.
Kimberly: Urban 12, Brochtrup 2, Ebben 4, Dulas 14, Asman 9, Van Vonderen 7. 3-pt: Urban 2, Asman 2, Van Vonderen. FTs: 9-14. Fouls: 17.
Hartford 58, Appleton East 48
BEAVER DAM – The third-seeded Orioles advance to the sectional final with the victory over the second-seeded Patriots.
Hartford, which led 40-24 at halftime, improves to 21-6 overall and will play Pewaukee in the sectional final at 4 p.m. March 7 at Whitefish Bay High School.
Rita Kuepper led Hartford with 19 points. Bella Klages added 12 points for the Orioles, who had 10 made 3-pointers in the game.
Appleton East, which finishes the season with a 23-4 record, was led by Ella Jazdzewski with 13 points, Ella Sweeney with 12 and Jenna Ott with 11.
Hartford 40 18 – 58
Appleton East 24 24 – 48
Pewaukee 77, Neenah 57
FOND DU LAC – The top-seeded Pirates advance to the sectional final with the victory over the fifth-seeded Rockets.
Pewaukee, which led by nine points at halftime, improves to 23-4 and will play Hartford in the sectional final at 4 p.m. March 7 at Whitefish Bay High School.
Rowan Klesmit led Neenah with 29 points. Sydney Michalkiewicz scored 11 and Farrah Danforth had nine.
Neenah finishes the season with a 19-8 record.
Pewaukee 35 42 – 77
Neenah 26 31 – 57
WIAA Division 2 sectional semifinals
Xavier 42, West De Pere 39
SEYMOUR – The top-seeded Hawks outlasted the third-seeded Phantoms to advance to the sectional final March 7 at 1 p.m. against Beaver Dam at Sheboygan South High School.
The game was close throughout as Xavier took a 20-18 halftime advantage.
The win moves the Hawks to 22-5 overall, while West De Pere finishes its season at 14-13.
West De Pere 18 21 – 39
Xavier 20 22 – 42
WIAA Division 3 sectional semifinals
Winneconne 61, Brillion 44
WAUPACA – The Wolves outscored the Lions by 14 points in the second half to pull away for the sectional semifinal win.
Winneconne improves to 21-6 overall and will play Oostburg on March 7 at 7 p.m. in Chilton in the sectional title game.
Brillion finishes the season with an 18-9 record.
Brillion 25 19 – 44
Winneconne 28 33 – 61
WIAA Division 4 sectional semifinals
St. Mary Catholic 52, Stratford 21
OMRO – The top-seeded Zephyrs broke open the game with a big second half as they cruised past the third-seeded Tigers to advance to the sectional final March 7 against Kewaunee in Brillion.
Helping power the St. Mary Catholic attack was Autumn Crowe with 22 points.
The game was physical throughout as the Zephyrs took a 23-12 lead into intermission. A 16-2 run to start the second half, however, helped propel SMC to a 39-14 lead as it never looked back.
Tria Tubbs led Stratford with six points.
The win moves the Zephyrs to 24-3 overall, while the Tigers finish their season at 21-6.
Mike Santana holding the TNA World Heavyweight Championship - X/TNA Wrestling
Tonight's live edition of "TNA Impact" featured title matches, new number-one contenders crowned in the tag division, and an appearance from Mama June, for those of you keyed into TLC reality TV. While it was far from the worst TNA has had to offer in 2026, the lows were fairly low, as you'll see from our entries tonight.
The build to TNA Sacrifice later this month is now in full swing, with what will likely be the main event of that show getting announced at the end of tonight's installment. That wasn't all that took place, either, as it was a fairly eventful episode, including several teases for a returning TNA mainstay.
We have a detailed breakdown of tonight's show ready for you at our "Impact" results page. Otherwise, buckle up and keep scrolling to dig into our favorite and most hated moments from the latest episode.
Hated: A champ with plenty of challengers and a roll-up win
Grace holding up the TNA Knockouts World Championship belt - TNA Wrestling/X
Having the likes of The Diamond Collective, Dani Luna, Xia Brookside, and Léi Yǐng Lee at ringside during the Knockouts World Championship Match between titleholder Arianna Grace and Jody Threat implies that TNA Wrestling is making an effort to bring importance to the Knockouts World Championship by having several women who have their eyes on it. If you ask me, it's a really great thing to see the company demonstrate that there's no shortage of challengers who have eyes on a title that they all want.
With that said, it's not as great to see Grace retain by rolling up Threat. While there isn't anything objectively wrong with a roll-up win (especially by a heel), I couldn't help but feel like it was the wrong ending for this match. There were so many potential challengers around ringside to watch the match, and for that reason, it felt like a missed opportunity to have Grace go over clean as a means of showing the audience that she's a credible champion who should be taken seriously by the rest of the roster. It definitely wasn't the most egregious thing that happened on the show by any means, but it also wasn't a fantastic look for the opening match of the show and truly did set the tone for all of the other nonsense on this episode of "Thursday Night iMPACT" that was to come.
Written by Olivia Quinlan
Love: The Demon Assassin has one last shot to do what?
Rosemary gloats on the damage done to her opponent in the ring - TNA
I'd like to start this off by quoting my dear friend/co-worker Max: "I'm blinded by intrigue over Rosemary." Where oh where will the queen of the hives take us next? She is a woman of mystery, and after not conquering her dream of becoming the newest challenger to Arianna Grace's TNA Knockouts World Championship at No Surrender last month, the dream remains alive that "The Demon Assassin" has a trick up her sleeve. But maybe not towards gaining gold, at the moment. Perhaps, righting the wrongs from yesteryear.
In tonight's vignettes, she questions "What happened to us?" First off, who is "us"? Her on-again, off-again enemy in Su Yung has vanished to the world of recovery. Taya Valkyrie transported from WWE to AEW. So, who is she trying to reach out to in the Undead/Shadow Realm? Maybe, a certain bunny, perhaps? It's been nearly seven years come March 29, 2019, when Rosemary held a collapsed and perished Allie in her arms. We all know that the Undead Realm is known to bring back those who are worthy. And Allie is certainly worthy of making her return. Imagine the forces of good and evil both Rosemary and Allie could bring as singles and tag team competitors.
Easter is almost here. Who doesn't want to see The Bunny hop onto our screens before we celebrate the official holiday of rebirth! But can Rosemary resurrect and help provide the healing touch that's already destroyed Allie's psyche?
Written by Brie Coder
Hated: Tessa Blanchard's commentary performance
Tessa Blanchard and her allies walking to the ring - X/TNA Wrestling
We already laid out that the opening match of tonight's "Impact" was a disappointment for a variety of reasons, but I'd like to go in-depth on one specific element: Tessa Blanchard's performance on commentary.
I'm also in the camp of viewers who absolutely do not care what Blanchard is up to. After tonight, my opinion of her is even lower, as her commentary was downright atrocious. I get that heels aren't exactly supposed to be likable, but I'm pretty sure they aren't supposed to make me want to turn off the TV and go find a better way to spend my time.
Her lines were nearly all obvious insults, performed in a stilted manner. One would think that somebody who's been around pro wrestling for as long as Blanchard has would've developed a little bit more on the mic, but it doesn't seem to be the case.
The Knockouts are absolutely among the brighter aspects of modern day TNA, but overall, tonight didn't do the division justice. Here's hoping they do a better job of it next week.
Written by Nick Miller
Loved: Two golden title defenses
(Left) TNA Knockouts World Champion Arianna Grace and (Right) X-Division Champion Leon Slater pose with their respective titles - Instagram/TNA
When it comes to any live TNA programming, you have to treat it with a mixed bag reaction. Will it be good? How many matches will be on? How many of those matches will be title defenses?
Tonight, the company did a fine job showcasing two title matches between the Knockouts World Championship and X-Division Title. While the champions Arianna Grace and Leon Slater retained, I want to talk about their challengers in Jody Threat and Nic Nemeth, respectively. I personally enjoyed the showmanship in Threat. As a number one contender, she proved why she had earned that position. Of course, most knew Grace would retain, as it was her first title defense; however, Threat was an excellent choice for the liaison/young champion to cut her teeth on.
As for Nemeth and Slater, they're match was spectacular. I do wish they had more time to throw down. In a way, it felt rushed. It will be interesting to see how Slater will fare up against Eric Young, who now has his sights set on the young X-Division Champion.
TNA has a plethora of great talent, and tonight's show demonstrated just how many youthful and hungry competitors there are. I hope the company can make it a habit of providing more title matches like the ones we saw tonight on future programming.
Written by Brie Coder
Hated: The Elegance Brand gets meaty
Heather and M By Elegance covered in meat - TNA
As The Miz would say: "Really?"
Of all the things to be devastated by, being called a "mark" would personally be amongst my bottom tier. For former Knockouts Champion Ash by Elegance, though, it was enough to miss "Thursday Night iMPACT" entirely.
In the grand scheme of insults, a "mark," meaning someone who is deeply invested in wrestling characters or storylines, doesn't seem that harmful. Especially in comparison to a near-career-ending issue she recently suffered, it really doesn't seem like something that would trouble her that intensely. Yet, according to her Personal Concierge, it did.
In Ash's absence, the Elegance Brand then picked a fight with Mama June, a reality star known for her appearances in "Here Comes Honey Boo Boo" and "Toddlers & Tiaras." This interaction appeared incredibly random and didn't add much substance to the Elegance Brand's ongoing storyline. In another random twist, TNA legend ODB then handed a physical substance — cups of meat — to Mama June and friends to pour on M and Heather by Elegance, leaving the ringside area messy and gross.
Coming out of this segment, I got flashbacks of the time Dolph Ziggler and Baron Corbin smothered Roman Reigns in dog food on "WWE SmackDown," and frankly, I never wanted to relive it.
Written by Ella Jay
Loved: Leon Slater returns and puts on a show
Leon Slater pins Nic Nemeth - TNA/X
Leon Slater made his first defense of the X-Division title this year on Thursday, defeating Nic Nemeth in a match that showed glimmers of the brilliance TNA is capable of.
Slater is by far the most exciting talent the company has on its roster, and sticking him in the ring with a veteran the level of Nemeth was always going to turn out perfectly fine, at the very least. What it turned out to be was actually quite fun, Slater getting the fast start right out of the gates. As he should do.
Nemeth found his way back into things with the help of his brother at ringside. Which, to be honest, is the best application for someone like Ryan Nemeth. And thus ensued a very back-and-forth match that saw near-falls on either side.
It was one of those bouts that managed to feel like any and all attempted covers could have been the last, and that only mingled with the excitement of the bout's actual action with it very possible there could have been a title change. That's why when Ryan Nemeth got involved for the second time, popping up on the apron, and provided the distraction for Nemeth to connect with a superkick, it felt like the numbers game had proved too much.
Only, Slater did kick out of that and went on to finish the match with the Swanton 450 – a move he had tried and failed to connect with multiple times – and retain his title.
It wasn't an instant classic to be talked about in years to come. But on a show that had very little going for it in a positive light, it was just cool to see that TNA can put on stuff like this when it wants to. A good match, a title match that very easily could have seen either win, complete with a post-match angle; Eric Young emerged to attack Slater, kick-starting his pursuit of the X-Division title.
Slater is a talent that really should be built around, always a highlight when he's in the ring, and one that the company really needs at this stage in time. It would be nice to see more of this every Thursday.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Logyn Greer and Desiree Wooten both scored 10 points in No. 6 seed Colorado's 55-48 win over No. 11 seed Kansas on Thursday night to advance to the quarterfinals of the Big 12 Conference Tournament.
Greer shot 4 for 7 from the field and drained both her attempts from 3-point range from the Buffaloes (21-10). She had six rebounds and four blocks. Wooten added four assists.
Colorado was in foul trouble early, racking up seven fouls in the first quarter. A 9-0 run in the second quarter broke the game open for the Buffaloes and they entered halftime up 26-18. Their defense held Kansas to 36% (19 of 53) from the field and 15% (2 of 13) from 3-point range.
Kansas (19-13) was led in scoring by S'Mya Nichols, who put up 14. Her and Sania Copeland scored the only 3-pointers for the Jayhawks.
Up next
Colorado: Will play No. 3 seed Baylor on Friday. The Lady Bears are ranked No. 20 in the country.
Kansas: Will wait for an invitation into a postseason tournament.
The Maquoketa Girls Basketball team was trailing at halftime 31-23 but they had a huge second half and defeated Des Moines Christian 61-54 to advance to the State Championship game on March 6, 2026.
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
KANSAS CITY, MO. — Missouri Southern Men’s Basketball is through to the MIAA Tournament semifinals following a 70-67 win over No. 2 seed Central Missouri.
Less than two weeks prior to the postseason matchup, Missouri Southern fell to the Mules 95-69 on the road in a game that was never much of a contest.
This time around, however, it was a completely different story; the Lions came to play. Missouri Southern started out hot, building a double-digit lead halfway through the first half behind an offensive flurry from Jaden Taylor.
Taylor finished with a team-high 23 points along with 8 rebounds and was instrumental throughout a 9-0 scoring run the help the Lions pull away.
Tyrone Wright also had a standout performance, helping the Lions win the rebound battle behind 11 boards along with 17 points to complete the double-double.
Missouri Southern held an 11-point lead at the half — a exact opposite result of MSSU’s first meeting with the Mules — and maintained the advantage throughout the second half by limiting turnovers and hitting some big shots down the stretch.
The Lions have now booked their spot in the tournament semifinals set for Saturday, March 7. Missouri Southern will face the winner of the Rogers State-Fort Hays State matchup.
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
The New York Rangers reportedly are trading Sam Carrick to the Buffalo Sabres. The deal is not yet official, and it’s unknown what the Rangers will receive in return for the 34-year-old center.
Carrick was a healthy scratch for roster management purposes on Thursday, when the Rangers defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs 6-2 at Madison Square Garden. Another veteran center, Vincent Trocheck, also didn’t play with the NHL Trade Deadline set for 3 p.m. ET on Friday.
A fourth-line staple for two seasons on Broadway, Carrick earned the respect of two coaching staffs and each of his teammates after he signed a three-year, $3 million free-agent contract on July 1, 2024.
“His most redeeming quality is his competitiveness, and I think that’s something every organization in the League values,” Sullivan said Friday after practice. “It’s hard to win in this League if you don’t have a certain competitive spirit and a willingness to pay the price to win. I think Sam certainly possesses that.”
Following the Rangers’ win Thursday, Adam Edstrom also spoke highly of Carrick, who leads the Rangers in fights with seven this season and has 10 points (four goals, six assists) in 60 games.
“Carrick has been a big part of my days in New York,” Edstrom said postgame. “Whatever happens, it’s out of my control. He’s been a great teammate and a great friend and I’d love to still have him on my line.”
Carrick had 20 points (six goals, 14 assists) in 80 games with the Rangers last season. They signed him after he helped the Edmonton Oilers reach the Stanley Cup Final in 2024, when they lost in seven games to the Florida Panthers. He had a part-time role with the Oilers, but a regular one as the heart of the Rangers fourth line.
In 380 NHL games with the Rangers, Oilers, Anaheim Ducks, and Maple Leafs, Carrick has 83 points (38 goals, 45 assists) and 427 penalty minutes.
The Sabres (37-19-6) are second in the Atlantic Division and seek their first playoff appearance in 15 years. They last took part in the postseason in 2011, when they lost in the conference quarterfinals.
SAN ANTONIO (AP) — Victor Wembanyama had 38 points, 16 rebounds and five blocks and the San Antonio Spurs never trailed in completing a sweep of Detroit, beating the Pistons 121-106 on Thursday night.
De’Aaron Fox had 29 points, and Stephon Castle added 11 points and 12 assists in San Antonio’s first game at home after a nearly a month-long trip.
Cade Cunningham had 26 points and Isaiah Stewart added 18 points in Detroit’s second straight loss. The Pistons, who closed their trip 1-2, remained atop the Eastern Conference at 45-16.
A potential NBA Finals matchup resulted in another double-digit victory for the red-hot Spurs.
San Antonio has won 13 of 14 games, including a 114-103 victory over the Pistons on Feb. 23 in Detroit, and remain second in the West at 45-17.
The Spurs rolled to a 10-2 lead in their first game in San Antonio since Feb. 7. The lead expanded to 17 points in the opening quarter as the Spurs shot 54% on 3-pointers.
Detroit lost Ausur Thompson two minutes into the game when he sprained his right ankle.
San Antonio was 13 for 37 on 3-pointers in shooting 35%.
JAZZ 122, WIZARDS 112
WASHINGTON (AP) — Ace Bailey crashed Trae Young’s Washington debut, scoring 21 of his career-high 32 points in the first half to lift Utah to a victory.
Young, who was traded from Atlanta to Washington in January, had 12 points and six assists while playing just 19 minutes. He’d been sidelined by knee and quadriceps injuries and was on a minutes restriction.
Juju Reese had 18 points and 20 rebounds for the Wizards, who have lost seven straight. Utah snapped a seven-game skid of its own.
Bailey, who was taken by the Jazz with the fifth pick in last year’s draft — one spot ahead of where Washington picked — made seven 3-pointers while surpassing his previous high of 25 points.
Although Young’s appearance in the starting lineup was welcomed by the home crowd, the Wizards trailed by 14 after one quarter. Washington’s Tre Johnson missed a breakaway dunk in the second, and although Young provided his share of highlights — including a pass between the legs of a defender to set up Anthony Gill’s layup in the third — Washington couldn’t come all the way back.
HEAT 126, NETS 110
MIAMI (AP) — Tyler Herro scored 25 points, Bam Adebayo added 21 and Miami beat Brooklyn, sending the Nets to their 10th consecutive loss.
Jaime Jaquez Jr. scored 18 for the Heat (34-29), who have won six of eight and moved five games over .500 for the first time since the first week of December. Pelle Larsson and Kel’el Ware each had 16 points for Miami — with Ware adding 11 rebounds and seven blocked shots.
The Heat also improved to 15-5 on March 5 — or “305 Day,” as it is called in Miami, a nod to the city’s primary area code. No active NBA franchise has a better record on that date.
Michael Porter Jr. scored 27 points for Brooklyn, which also lost at Miami on Tuesday. Noah Clowney scored 17, Nic Claxton had 16 and Ziaire Williams finished with 15 for the Nets. Brooklyn briefly led in the third quarter, but gave up 66 points in the second half.
Miami had a 54-34 edge in bench scoring and shot 53%.
MAGIC 115, MAVERICKS 114
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Wendell Carter Jr. made a go-ahead dunk with 1.4 seconds left, and Orlando beat Dallas to spoil Cooper Flagg’s return from injury.
Flagg’s three-point play with 37.3 seconds left gave Dallas a four-point lead, but Orlando scored the last five points. Jalen Suggs hit a 3-pointer with 32.2 seconds left, and after Flagg missed a jumper, Suggs fed Carter in the paint for the decisive slam.
Tristan da Silva led the Magic with 19 points. Suggs finished with 17 points and seven assists, Paolo Banchero had 16 points and 12 rebounds, and Carter scored 15.
Flagg scored 18 points on 7-of-22 shooting in 26 minutes. The top pick in the NBA draft and the league’s highest-scoring rookie, he had missed the previous eight games with a sprained left foot.
Klay Thompson scored 24 points for the Mavericks, coming off the bench to make seven 3-pointers. Khris Middleton scored 10 of his 19 points in the fourth quarter, but the Mavericks lost for the 15th time in 17 games.
WARRIORS 115, ROCKETS 113, OT
HOUSTON (AP) — Brandon Podziemski had 26 points, De’Anthony Melton added 23 and short-handed Golden State outlasted Houston in overtime.
The Warriors were up three with about 30 seconds left in overtime when Kevin Durant was fouled on a 3-point attempt and made the first two before a miss. Golden State got the rebound and Melton made a tip-in layup with 5.3 seconds left to push the lead to 115-112.
Durant made 1 of 2 free throws after and a foul by the Rockets allowed Golden State to hold on for the win.
Al Horford added 17 points for the Warriors as Stephen Curry sat out for a 12th consecutive game with a knee injury. The Warriors have said that he’s expected to be re-evaluated around Tuesday.
Reed Sheppard led Houston with 30 points, including six 3-pointers, and Durant added 23.
It was tied with less than three minutes left in overtime before Podziemski made a 3-pointer followed by a driving layup to give Golden State a 111-106 lead about a minute later.
Amen Thompson made the first of two free throws before rebounding the miss on the second. Durant hit a 3-pointer to cut the lead to 1. Horford made a basket for Golden State to make it 113-110.
TIMBERWOLVES 115, RAPTORS 107
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Anthony Edwards scored 22 points, including an impressive two-handed slam over RJ Barrett, and Minnesota beat Toronto for its fifth straight victory.
In the third quarter, Edwards used a crossover dribble to get free in the lane, elevated well above the rim and slammed it home, flexing and yelling at Barrett afterward. Barrett gave Edwards a little bump as they ran back up the court.
Coming off a 41-point performance in Minnesota’s 117-110 win over Memphis on Tuesday night, Edwards had an efficient night, shooting 8 of 12 from the field and 5 of 8 from 3-point range.
With Houston falling to Golden State in overtime, the Timberwolves (40-23) moved one game ahead of the Rockets for third place in the Western Conference.
Rudy Gobert had 18 points and 12 rebounds, Julius Randle scored 17 and Donte DiVincenzo had 16 points for the Wolves.
Barrett led the Raptors with 25 points and Immanuel Quickley added 18. Toronto has lost four of five but remains fifth in the East.
BULLS 105, SUNS 103
PHOENIX (AP) — Collin Sexton scored 30 points and Chicago held off Phoenix for its second victory in three games following an 11-game losing streak.
Down 12 with under six minutes left, Phoenix pulled to 104-103 on Devin Booker’s 3-pointer with 23 seconds left.
Jalen Green had a chance to give the Suns’ their first lead, but missed a running layup, with Phoenix’s Amir Coffey fouling Nick Richards with 4.1 seconds to go. Richards made the first free throw and missed the second, with a scramble for the rebound running out the clock.
Tre Jones added 21 points and Guerschon Yabusele had 16 for Chicago in the opener of a five-game trip. The Bulls were without Matas Buzelis and Josh Giddey after they injured ankles in a home loss to Oklahoma City on Tuesday night.
Booker led Phoenix with 27 points in his second game after missing four because of a right hip injury. Grayson Allen added 21 points. Green had 12 points on 5-of-20 shooting. He was 1 of 8 from 3-point range.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KSNT) – The Jayhawks came up short in the second round.
Kansas women’s basketball struggled to find momentum Thursday night, falling to Colorado in the second round of the Big 12 Tournament 55-48.
The Jayhawk were outrebounded 39-25 and shot only 15% from beyond the arc.
S’Mya Nichols had a team-high 14 points in the loss.
Big 12 Freshman of the Year Jaliya Davis scored only eight points in the loss, not making her first field goal until 1:18 remained in the game. She finished 2-9 from the field.
With the loss, the Jayhawks will likely miss out on the NCAA Tournament. Kansas could still play postseason basketball in another tournament.
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Warriors guard Pat Spencer, right, grabs a rebound over Rockets center Clint Capela, left, during the first half of Thursday's game in Houston. (Eric Christian Smith/Associated Press)
HOUSTON - The undermanned Golden State Warriors wouldn't be denied an overtime victory Thursday night at Toyota Center against their longtime playoff rivals.
That without Stephen Curry, Kristaps Porzingis, Moses Moody, Will Richard and Gary Payton II (in addition to Jimmy Butler) against the healthier, bigger Rockets, who entered their matchup third in the Western Conference standings.
As a result, Golden State (32-30) maintains its clutch on the No. 8 seed over the Los Angeles Clippers by 1½ games.
Podziemski paired a team-high 26 points (including seven in overtime) with nine rebounds as De'Anthony Melton added 23 points and a putback with 5.3 seconds to play. Al Horford added 17 points - including a jump hook in the final minute - six rebounds and five assists.
Reed Sheppard scored a game-high 30 points for the Rockets, who got 22 points (on 8-of-16 shooting in 41 minutes) from Kevin Durant opposite stellar defense from Draymond Green. Durant was fouled while attempting a 3-pointer with Houston down three in the final minute, but missed the third free throw - preceding Melton's putback layup.
The Warriors, with 10 players available, hustled and competed their way to 51-47 halftime lead powered in part by a 30-20 cushion after the opening 12 minutes. Melton attacked for 10 first-quarter points, beating the Rockets off the bounce as Golden State cut off driving lanes and forced jumpers they willingly conceded.
Its second-quarter offense stalled a bit amid struggles to beat Houston off the dribble as Sheppard found a scoring rhythm. Golden State broke a 45-45 tie with a 6-2 run to close the half with Santos converting a banking floater right before the buzzer sounded.
The lead didn't last as the Rockets (38-23) cracked the Warriors for 70% third-quarter shooting, winning it 35-30. Thompson attacked for nine third-quarter points to counter a 10-point quarter from Podziemski - following a go-ahead triple with a dunk.
A tense fourth quarter was devoid of separation and chock full of low-post scores from Alperen Sengun that Melton and Horford countered with clutch 3-pointers. Durant blocked Melton's shot in the closing seconds - on a play that was whistled a foul and overturned via challenge - and Golden State controlled the jump ball, but its out-of-bounds action was blown up by Houston.
A lob to Thompson at the buzzer went awry, leading to bonus basketball.
Golden State's three-game trip continues Saturday against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
PHOENIX (AP) — Collin Sexton scored 30 points and the Chicago Bulls held off the Phoenix Suns 105-103 on Thursday night for their second victory in three games following an 11-game losing streak.
Down 12 with under six minutes left, Phoenix pulled to 104-103 on Devin Booker's 3-pointer with 23 seconds left.
Jalen Green had a chance to give the Suns' their first lead, but missed a running layup, with Phoenix's Amir Coffey fouling Nick Richards with 4.1 seconds to go. Richards made the first free throw and missed the second, with a scramble for the rebound running out the clock.
Tre Jones added 21 points and Guerschon Yabusele had 16 for Chicago in the opener of a five-game trip. The Bulls were without Matas Buzelis and Josh Giddey after they injured ankles in a home loss to Oklahoma City on Tuesday night.
Booker led Phoenix with 27 points in his second game after missing four because of a right hip injury. Grayson Allen added 21 points. Green had 12 points on 5-of-20 shooting. He was 1 of 8 from 3-point range.
Seventh in the West, Phoenix had won two straight. The Suns are without Dillon Brooks because of a fractured left hand.
Wilson senior McKaden Speece became Berks County’s all-time career leader in wins tonight when he won his opening match at 172 pounds in the PIAA Class 3A Wrestling Championships in Hershey.
Speece (52-1) now has 195 career wins, surpassing Schuylkill Valley’s Colin Shober, a 2010 graduate, who held the record at 194.
Speece, a U.S. Naval Academy commit, defeated Liam Costa of Moon Area for the history-making victory by technical fall, 19-4, in 2:34.
In his quest for a state title, Speece will face West Chester Rustin’s A.J. Corp in the quarterfinals at 2:15 p.m. Friday.
Corp defeated Emmaus’ Xayden Sallit 7-1 in the first round.
Speece was the only BCIAA wrestler to advance to the quarterfinals.
At 107, Wilson freshman Rhys Schaffer won his preliminary match, pinning Stroudsburg’s Jack Jasionowicz in 2:31, and then was sent to the consolations by the tourney’s top seed, Jacob Carr of Sun Valley, in the first round.
Carr won by technical fall 17-1 in 4:11. Schaffer will wrestle the winner of the first round consolation match between Wyatt Kiner of Boiling Springs and Johnny Hunter of Central Bucks East in the second round on Friday.
At 121, Wilson senior Abramm Schaffer, the South Central Region champion, was beaten by Connellsville’s Tommy Gretz, 5-4, in the first round. Schaffer will wrestle in the second round of consolations on Friday against the winner of Alex Su of Central Bucks South and Tristin Cruz of Northern.
At 133, Gov. Mifflin junior Patrick Steuer lost by major decision, 16-5, to Sean Murray of Upper Perkiomen.
Steuer (39-11) was eliminated from the tournament in the first round of consolations by Owen J. Roberts’ Carter Soto, 9-4.
Also at 133, Wilson’s Charlie Griffin lost to Central Mountain’s Patrick Tarantella 6-5 in the preliminary round.
Griffin (38-18) stayed alive in the tournament by beating Elco’s Ashton Kriss 10-7 in the first round of consolations.
At 152, after winning his preliminary match, Conrad Weiser senior Justin McGarrigle was pinned by Perkiomen Valley’s Luke Knox in 26 seconds in the first round.
McGarrigle (42-5) defeated Whitehall’s Mason Hopkins 6-5 in the prelims. He will wrestle in the second round of consolations on Friday.
At 160, Gov. Mifflin junior Anthony Montegari was pinned by Logan Pfistner of Quakertown in 3:00 to drop down to the consolations.
Montegari (35-6) stayed alive for a medal by beating Gettysburg’s Reid Grossman 7-3 in the first round of consolations.
At 215, Wilson junior Ethan Brownback was pinned by Dubois’ Kendahl Hoare in 3:53 to drop down into the consolation bracket.
Brownback (36-7) bounced back in the first round of consolations to defeat Pleasant Valley’s Evan Gillespie, 7-2.
At 285, Exeter junior Kevin Oswalt lost to Hatboro-Horsham’s Robert Rose 7-2 in the first round.
Oswalt (44-4) stayed alive in the tournament by winning in the first round of consolations – a 17-1 technical fall over Donegal’s Owen Winters in 3:18.
Apr 5, 2025; Darlington, South Carolina, USA; Driver Ross Chastain (19) on pit road during the Great Clips 200 at Darlington Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
Ross Chastain sits 20th in the NASCAR Cup Series standings after the opening stretch of the 2026 season. The Trackhouse Racing driver has shown speed in spurts, logging a top five and a stage win, but the start of the year has also brought failure in parts and penalties on pit road that have kept the No. 1 team from stacking maximum points.
Chastain’s schedule extends well beyond Sundays. He will take the wheel in eight races for Niece Motorsports in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, while also running four events for Jordan Anderson Racing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. The added track time is aimed at keeping him in the thick of competition, giving him more track time, ahead of the main event on Sunday.
This week, the focus shifts to Phoenix Raceway, where the IndyCar Series joins NASCAR for a joint event billed as the “Desert Double” from March 6–8, 2026. The race will be IndyCar’s return to the oval for the first time since 2018, placing stock cars and open-wheel machines at the same venue.
Chastain said he looks forward to crossing paths with the IndyCar paddock, with one slight caveat. He said, “I’m looking forward to seeing the people, but I’m not excited for the probably confusing feeling we’ll have with their rubber versus our rubber. I was fully ingrained in IndyCar from 2018 to 2021 as a development driver for Chip Ganassi Racing.”
During that stretch, he spent time with the team at events and tests in Sebring, building ties across the garage, some of which include headline IndyCar figures such as Scott Dixon and Alex Palou.
Chastain previews upcoming stretch of NASCAR events
“I feel like Phoenix, Vegas, Darlington, and Martinsville, that’s a month snapshot there of the season because there is a mix of everything. The points won’t reflect it, but those four weeks, if you bookmark them, I think you get a good snapshot of who’s the best right now,” Chastain said of future events on the west coast swing, touching on how upcoming weekends could reveal which drivers and teams have the most pace.
Inside the No. 1 garage, Chastainhas also begun working with crew chief Brandon McSwain, who stepped into the role for the 2026 season after Phil Surgen moved on. The driver said the two are ironing out the language used over the radio while settling into a rhythm. Away from the car, the partnership has come together without friction. The remaining task lies in syncing communication during races as McSwain settles into the seat atop the pit box.
Through the opening races, Chastain said the new crew chief has handled the job well, and the team continues to work through the details as the season progresses. It remains to be seen how well Chastain can adapt to the Chase format after being quite successful in the previous elimination-style points system.
Dec 7, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Oregon Ducks players on the court during the National Anthem prior to the game against the UCLA Bruins at Pauley Pavilion presented by Wescom Financial. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images | Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
After taking down Purdue in the opening round of the B1G tournament the Oregon Ducks next opponent in the tournament was the 6 seed Maryland Terrapins. Coming into the game Oregon was a NCAA tournament lock and projected 8 seed in the tourney. But the opportunity to potentially move off the 8 line and get further away from a 1 seed was on the line for the Ducks as well as keeping their B1G tournament odds alive.
They would be in tough against a good Maryland team projected to be a 4 seed in the upcoming NCAA tournament and had a bye to the 2nd round of the tournament.
Maryland would go on the games first significant run of the game as Ehis Etute had to go to the bench for repairs after getting cut and was bleeding. The Terrapins would use the opportunity without Etute on the floor to go on a 10-3 run and take an early 14-8 lead midway through the 1st quarter. The teams would trade buckets the rest of the quarter and Maryland had a 21-15 lead after 1.
Early in the 2nd it was Avary Cain stepping up for the Ducks scoring 6 straight herself to tie the game at 23 with 4 of those coming on a 4 point play.
— Oregon Women’s Basketball (@OregonWBB) March 6, 2026
From there both teams were really battling with neither team able to go on a big run to take the lead. This was incredibly competitive basketball with neither team giving an inch as Maryland would take 1 point lead at half-time 32-31.
After a quiet first half that saw Katie Fiso held scoreless she would start to cook right after half-time giving the Ducks 8 quick points early in the 3rd to give the Ducks their biggest lead of the game 41-36.
But just as the Ducks threw a punch the Terrapins came back with a haymaker of their own going on an 11-2 run to go back up 51-47 with just over 3 minutes left in the 3rd and take a 57-52 lead into the 4th quarter.
Oregon had a counter of their own thanks to Etute and Fiso taking control of the game.
— Oregon Women’s Basketball (@OregonWBB) March 6, 2026
Maryland would fight, scratch, and claw their way back though to make it a 2 point game with under 30 seconds to play. Maryland elected not to foul and attempted to trust its defense to get a stop and then get the ball back for one final possession to either tie or win the game. Avary Cain would make them pay for that decision with a dagger 3 to make it a 5 point game with 4.4 seconds to go to seal the game and move the Ducks on to the next round.
Up next tomorrow the Ducks will take on 3 seeded Michigan who projects as a 2 seed in the NCAA tournament. A great opportunity for the Ducks to add to their resume as they keep marching along in the B1G tournament.
The second-seeded St. Thomas men’s basketball team quelled an early uprising from No. 7 seed South Dakota State to defeat the Jackrabbits 80-67 in the Summit League quarterfinals on Thursday at the Denny Sanford Premier Center in Sioux Falls, S.D.
South Dakota State came out of the gates hot and led by seven with 9:16 remaining in the first half. The Jackrabbits still led by five with 3:27 to go until the break before the Tommies closed the half on a 9-2 run to lead 39-37 at halftime.
The Tommies seized control of the contest by opening the second half on an 8-2 run and held South Dakota State at arm’s length through the remainder of the contest en route to the 13-point victory.
Ben Oosterbaan logged 23 points to lead all scorers, while Nolan Minessale tallied 22 points to go with eight rebounds and six assists.
St. Thomas returns to playoff action Saturday evening at approximately 9-9:30 p.m. when they take on either No. 3 seed North Dakota or No. 6 Denver in a semifinal matchup. The game will be televised on CBS Sports Network.
For the first time since early January, the Pittsburgh Penguins have lost back-to-back games in regulation.
While, on the surface, this doesn't seem like the worst thing, there are other potential ramifications from Thursday's 5-1 loss to the Buffalo Sabres that could - quite frankly - alter the course of the Penguins' season and playoff hopes.
In addition to their loss to the Sabres - which kept them in a second-place tie in the Metropolitan Division with the New York Islanders for the time being - they also lost forward Evgeni Malkin, who was assessed a game misconduct for a slash to the head of Sabres' defenseman Rasmus Dahlin early in the second period.
The Sabres scored on the ensuing power play via a low-slot shot from Josh Norris, and the call was upheld after yet another failed goaltender interference challenge by Penguins' head coach Dan Muse.
And even Penguins' players admit that things may have snowballed after the Malkin sequence and another goaltender interference call failing to go their way.
"It's not easy," said goaltender Arturs Silovs, who was dealt a tough hand Thursday and stopped 21 of 25 Buffalo shots on goal. "We get [a] five-minute major we have to kill. I think we did a good job. But, sure, one of the top players leaving, it's not the best. It's like, one of the top [players in] our offense. So, it's not easy to regroup, but we tried to."
Things started off a bit sloppy for the Penguins, as Ryan McLeod scored his league-leading fifth shorthanded goal of the season on a breakaway after a tricky play at the offensive blue line to elude Penguins' defenseman Kris Letang and put the Sabres up, 1-0.
However, the Penguins responded with a shorthanded goal of their own less than three minutes later, when Bryan Rust performed his signature power move around Norris and across the net-front for his 21st goal of the season to tie the game.
Then, the second-period shenanigans with Malkin ensued, and the Sabres were up, 2-1. Two minutes after Norris's go-ahead goal, the Penguins were on a power play but found themselves in the defensive zone, where they took a penalty. On the delayed call, Alex Tuch buried his 25th goal of the season to put the Sabres on top, 3-1, and Owen Power added one just past the midway point of the second period to make it 4-1.
Mattias Samuelsson added an empty-net goal late in third period to bury the Penguins for good and secure the 5-1 win.
Here are some thoughts and takeaways from this emotional loss:
- I'll get to Malkin in a second because I won't have many thoughts numbers-wise, but I sure have plenty of thoughts. And let's start with this goaltender interference.
And, yes, this was clearly goaltender interference.
The Penguins challenged the Sabres' 2nd goal of the game for goaltender interference but the ruling was good goal 🫣 pic.twitter.com/nc4xpnEGAp
I have not agreed with all of Muse's challenges for goaltender interference so far this season, but this one seemed clear as day. Josh Doan ventured to the blue paint unimpeded initially and made contact with Silovs before Letang made contact with him. And, even if Letang did make what was very little contact, it seemed inconsequential, as Doan made no ensuing effort to get out of the way of Silovs.
This was goaltender interference. I know it. Most of the internet knows it. Analysts know it. Silovs knows it, too.
"For sure," Silovs said. "You know, it's like... I think it was clearly goalie interference. Like, I don't know. Other guy gets a little touch, doesn't count. It was blatant. He didn't even try to avoid me. Went through me, and what am I supposed to do? Yeah, I don't think the refs tried to help us at all today."
Muse also knew it. In fact, he was sure about it.
"My view on it is goalie interference because their player skated in the blue paint, made contact with our goalie, which affected the play. Which is the rule," Muse said. "He came in and made contact. Afterward, there is a little bit of a push. He initiated the contact in there. By the rules, I thought it was goalie interference. I still feel like it's goalie interference. And it seems like it changes day to day right now.
"People are again going to maybe question some of the challenges I've made. There's been lower percentage [challenges]. This one, I thought, was pretty clear."
So, if I was sure of it, the internet was sure of it, analysts were sure of it, Silovs was sure of it, and Muse was sure of it, why aren't NHL officials sure of it?
There is a disconnect with what this rule actually constitutes now, and it needs to be addressed. Especially since the loser of the challenge is punished with a penalty.
Just an egregious one to miss tonight. I don't understand it.
This is a 39-year-old franchise legend who badly wants another contract with the Penguins. That situation has become pretty public in the past week or so, even if Dubas prefers to keep negotiations private between he, Malkin, and agent J.P. Barry.
Your team is hanging onto second place in the Metro with the Islanders right on your heels in third and the surging Columbus Blue Jackets getting closer in the rearview. Your team is without its best player in Sidney Crosby for a few weeks, you have a guantlet of a schedule in March that is the hardest in the league, and despite this adversity, your team continues to battle and win most hockey games.
It's the time of year where pretty much every game is a must-win, but especially the game before the NHL trade deadline, when your GM just spoke about looking to add to the team on the forward front and defensive front to shore everything up for both a playoff run and the future.
The cross-checks? Sure. They happen dozens of times per game. Matching cross-checks are one thing, but slashing the head of an opponent with your stick is another, and it comes at a time when this Penguins' team is trying to hold on without its captain.
Composure needs to be kept there. This is not Malkin's first rodeo with a stick infraction, so he's almost certainly going to miss some time. Not having Crosby AND Malkin could quite literally derail what has been a magical, expectation-defying season for this team, and it would all be the result of a selfish, heat-of-the-moment decision by a player this team counts on.
There is never a time and place for what Malkin did. But it was especially bad considering the circumstances around this team, this season, and this contract negotiation.
If the Penguins miss the playoffs, they can point to several things. But this would be looked back on as the catalyst to the collapse.
So, for Malkin's sake - assuming that he misses some time and that Crosby won't be back for at least another week - his team better find a way to ride out the storm.
- All that said, Muse offered a pretty strong statement to his team after the game.
I asked him what the message was to the team after a couple of regulation losses in a row - the first time that's happened since Jan. 10-11. This was an emotional loss, and the last time the Penguins had a condensed schedule was December, when an emotional loss against the Anaheim Ducks snowballed into an eight-game losing streak.
So how do the Penguins avoid that this time around?
"You can say the schedule... I think it's just this league in general this time of year, too," Muse said. "Like, be pissed off. I don't want anybody walking out of today seeing this as okay. You also gotta be quick to turn the page. So, you get home, you get some sleep, you get to the rink tomorrow, we've got to look at ways that we can be better, we've got to quickly turn the page, and we've got to be ready for this next game.
"That's where we're at, and that's an important part is you don't let things continue to build. And I'd say the same thing if we had a game that we really liked. You've got to be ready for the next one because these are all turning fast."
We'll see what happens. In any case, Dubas is not - contrary to some panicked belief on Twitter - going to suddenly pivot and have a fire sale.
No. This team deserves to be rewarded. They've earned that. And they're still in a divisional playoff spot. Dubas must stay the course, whatever that means.
So, buckle up, Penguins' fans. This is going to be a very interesting 24 hours.
Aug 22, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens (3) before the game against the Atlanta Falcons at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
The Dallas Cowboys are already navigating a tight salary-cap situation, and their decision to place the franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens has only intensified the financial balancing act in Dallas. With the tag giving the two sides until mid-July to negotiate a long-term extension before it becomes binding for the 2026 season, the Cowboys must determine whether Pickens is part of their long-term blueprint or simply a short-term solution.
That looming decision has sparked debate around the league, including from Hall of Fame receiver Cris Carter, who warned the Cowboys that tagging Pickens instead of locking him into a proper extension could create more problems than it solves.
Carter argued the move makes little sense considering the resources Dallas has already invested in the receiver. According to him, placing the tag on Pickens risks frustrating a player who has already delivered his best football.
“It does not do you any good to franchise him. You’ve already traded the draft pick for him. You don’t want to franchise him two years and pay him $50 million, $25 a year, because he’s going to be upset,” Carter said.
“You got the best football out of him now. He’s a loose cannon. He can go either way.”
Carter’s criticism goes beyond just Pickens’ temperament. He believes the Cowboys’ broader roster-building strategy is flawed, particularly when it comes to how much money they are committing to offensive stars like quarterback Dak Prescott and fellow receiver CeeDee Lamb.
From Carter’s perspective, the financial math simply doesn’t work in a salary-cap league.
“You cannot pay a receiver $40 million, another receiver $35 million, and your quarterback $55 million,” Carter said. “Guess who the Dallas Cowboys are now? You’re the Cincinnati Bengals.”
His comparison to the Cincinnati Bengals reflects a broader critique of modern roster construction. Carter believes teams that invest too heavily in a handful of stars risk weakening the rest of the roster, something he says is particularly dangerous in the NFL, where success depends on depth across multiple positions.
“That is not a business model to compete for championships,” Carter explained. “Wide receivers can be negated based on coverage and pass rush. We can drop seven people into coverage, put two on you and two on you, and rush the passer.”
Unlike the NBA, Carter emphasized, football doesn’t reward “super teams” built around a few elite players.
“That ain’t basketball, bro. The big three ain’t going to help you in football,” Carter said. “Get you one stud and then get you a bunch of minions split up everywhere instead of three studs and minimums.”
While the Cowboys’ front office continues negotiating with Pickens, the organization has publicly maintained that it wants the Pro Bowl wideout in Dallas long term. Prescott even offered his own advice to the receiver, encouraging him not to take the business side personally and to trust his value during negotiations.
Still, Carter’s warning highlights the larger dilemma facing Dallas: whether committing major money to multiple offensive stars is the right formula for building a championship roster — or the exact trap that keeps them from one.
ESPN Bracketologist Joe Lunardi addressed the unique situation the 19th-ranked, 30-0 Miami RedHawks present as they enter the Mid-American Conference tournament as the top seed, seeking the league's automatic bid.
What if the RedHawks lose in the MAC tourney? Will the selection committee decide they deserve an at-large bid?
"Let's be honest. We've never had a scenario quite like this," Lunardi said March 5. "Even with prior undefeated teams, all of which were good enough to be high seeds, (No.) 1 seeds, in fact in the NCAA tournament. Their strength of schedule (315th) is even worse in the non-conference, and it includes multiple non-Div. I wins. I just still can't imagine the selection committee leaving out a 31-0 team that loses in their conference tournament."
"We'll see if they lose tomorrow night - it's a rivalry game," Lunardi continued. "And if they lose again in Cleveland at the Mid-American tournament? Might be a different conversation, but I don't think so. And if Miami wins out, I see them in an 8 (vs.) 9 game."
Earlier in the week, when college basketball analyst Bruce Pearl suggested that teams from the nation's power conferences are more deserving than the RedHawks, Lunardi said Pearl should leave Bracketology to the professionals.
WINNIPEG, Manitoba (AP) — Connor Hellebuyck made 26 saves, Mark Scheifele had a goal and an assist and the Winnipeg Jets beat the Tampa Bay Lightning 4-1 on Thursday night.
Morgan Barron, Gustav Nyquist and Kyle Connor, into an empty net, also scored for Winnipeg. The Jets improved to 25-26-10, extending their home winning streak against Tampa Bay to five games.
Nyquist scored his first goal in 41 regular-season games dating to last season. He gave Winnipeg a 3-1 lead at 5:34 of the third period.
Brayden Point scored for Tampa Bay, and Andrei Vasilevskiy stopped 26 shots. The Lighting have lost four straight to fall to 38-18-4.
Point scored at 1:52 of the third period to spoil Hellebuyck’s shutout bid. Jake Guentzel picked up his 39th assist, matching his total last season.
COLUMBUS, OHIO - MARCH 1: Devin Royal #21 of the Ohio State Buckeyes reacts after making a basket during the second half of the game against the Purdue Boilermakers at Value City Arena on March 1, 2026 in Columbus, Ohio. Ohio State defeated Purdue 82-74. (Photo by Kirk Irwin/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Purdue wanted to try and get itself right against a Northwestern team that was, by all accounts, struggling to do much of anything of consequence this season. The Wildkats have struggled all season as their best victory is against Indiana (rathed #41 on Kenpom) and only hold four Kenpom top-100 victories all season but seemed to have most all of the answers against the Boilers. Purdue trailed by 10 early in the second half before rallying back behind the outburst from CJ Cox for a 70-66 victory.
Let’s take a look at the victory ‘By The Numbers’:
1,503
With his 11 points, TKR got to 1,503 career points for his career as a Boilermaker and he now sits just outside the top 25 and #26. His scoring is way down this year as he is averaging 13.3 points per game after averaging 20.1 last year. He could sneak his way into the top 20 if Purdue is able to get four to five more games. Overall, TKR becomes just the seventh player in program history to score 1,500 points, grab 700 rebounds, and dish out 200 assists (Vince Edwards, Robbie Hummel, Brian Cardinal, Brad Miller, Tod Mitchell, Walter Jordan). If you were wondering, Braden Smith is just 25 rebounds short of the same mark.
— Purdue Men's Basketball (@BoilerBall) March 5, 2026
7
It hasn’t been the B1G season that Purdue wanted as they have struggled with three home losses in the B1G but they did a stellar job on the road. Purdue won a program tying best 7 road games this season, highlighted by their victory over the same Wisconsin team they will square up with for senior night on Saturday. In fact, the Boilers have seemingly been better in neutral site or road games all season which is an odd thing to say considering the kind of home advantage Mackey Arena has provided over the years.
— Purdue Men's Basketball (@BoilerBall) March 5, 2026
27
CJ Cox had 4 of Purdue’s first 6 points but no more until he beat the game clock with no time left in the first half. It was his typical efficient game for the sophomore that had been averaging 8.0 points per game and had a season high of 18 against Memphis. Then, the second half happened.
Cox was stellar in the second half and it is likely Purdue gets blown out had it not been for Cox’s 21 second half points. That alone was just two points away from a career high itself (23 points vs. Nebraska in 2025) but adding in Cox’s 6 from the first half and he would set that career high at 27 points. Cox would also hit the most important bucket for the Boilers as he gave them a 68-66 lead with less than 50 seconds left. He is now averaging 8.7 points per game on the season but his last five he has shot 11-23 from behind the arc for 47.8%.
— Purdue Men's Basketball (@BoilerBall) March 5, 2026
1,020
With his 9 assists, Braden Smith now has 1,020 career assists and stands just 56 short of the NCAA All Time mark of 1,076 held by Duke’s Bobby Hurley. He is currently in 4th place overall with North Carolina’s Ed Cota next at 1,030.
Can Smith get to Hurley’s mark? It’ll depend if Smith can have one or two of those big assist games of 12 or more while getting some much needed wins in both the B1G and NCAA Tourneys. Here is what that would look like:
3 games (least amount he could play): 18.7 4 games: 14 5 games: 11.2 6 games: 9.3 7 games: 8 8 games: 7 9 games: 6.2 10 games (maximum number of games: 5.6
Braden Smith assists @ Northwestern: 9 Braden Smith career assists: 1020
Assists until Big Ten record: BROKEN Assists until national record: 57
Games until national record broken at current rate (8.7 APG): 7 (6 games into Postseason)
— Braden Smith Assist Tracker (@assisttracker) March 5, 2026
14
Purdue very nearly took their outstanding rebounding advantage that they built (+14) and threw it away with a 14 turnover performance that was highlighted by some really poor decisions. The Wildkats only turned it over seven times but they couldn’t capitalize on that as they only had a 15-12 scoring advantage off those turnovers. Lucky for the Boilers whose performance was tied for the second worst of the season as they had 15 against Iowa State for the most this season.
What was the worst turnover of the night? It was probably the really uncharacteristic turnover that led to an easy dunk for Northwestern with just 2 minutes left in the game with Purdue holding a 62-61 lead. Smith dribbled left, coughed the ball up, and then threw the ball backwards toward halfcourt that led to the dunk.
WHAT ARE SOME OTHER NUMBERS WE CAN LOOK AT FOR THE BIG VICTORY AGAINST NORTHWESTERN?
In his unprecedented 23rd NBA season, LeBron James has broken another major league record and further strengthened his claim as the greatest ever in basketball history when it comes to his longevity.
In the Los Angeles Lakers' game on Thursday at the Denver Nuggets, he surpassed another former Lakers superstar by the name of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in career made field goals. Abdul-Jabbar had 15,837 made baskets during his storied 20-year career, which ended back in 1989.
James surpassed the legendary Hall of Fame center's record by hitting a turnaround jumper on the baseline near the end of the first quarter of Thursday's contest.
James, of course, moved past Abdul-Jabbar in career regular-season points three years ago during a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. He also owns the records for most All-Star selections (22), most All-NBA selections (21) and most playoff game appearances (292).
He came into Thursday averaging 21.6 points on 50.2% shooting, 5.7 rebounds and seven assists a game.
The Rule 5 magic may have run out for the White Sox, as Jedixson Paez was steamrolled for six runs in an ill-fated seventh inning on Thursday. | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Somehow, despite at last check this was a Spring Training game, the White Sox were held to one hit, a Brooks Baldwin single, through seven innings. But then, given the state of Chicago pitching tonight, the lack of offense wasn’t the major concern, just an embarrassing one.
The game opened with three straight doubles cracked by Cleveland, and it was 2-0 before starter Sean Burke recorded an out. After one more, Triple-A first baseman CJ Clayfus destroyed a center-cut curveball for a two-run homer, and before the White Sox picked up a bat, they were down, 4-0.
The good news was that Burke settled down and finished his outing with dignity, giving up just one hit over his final two frames. And even better was Erick Fedde, coming on in relief (are we witnessing the fifth-starter battle right here?) and throwing three scoreless, giving up two hits and punching out one.
In the third inning, Baldwin singled to center. That was it for the White Sox offense through two-thirds of the game.
Heading into the seventh, this was still mostly anyone’s game, at 4-0, Cleveland.
Then Jedixson Paez entered. And if the fact that he’s thrown in just two of the first 14 Cactus League games isn’t its own vote of no-confidence, the young righty’s surrender of six runs on six hits (to be fair, some cheap, some not) is making it look much harder to imagine the 2-for-2 the White Sox went on Rule 5s in 2025 is going to repeat itself.
With the game at 9-0, Jake Palisch came in to put out the fire and surrendered a first-pitch, two-run homer to Carter Kieboom to put the game, as they say, out of reach.
JUST THEN the White Sox offense awakened — if in fact you call Dru Baker hitting a Little League home run (triple, scoring on shortstop Milan Tolentino’s throwing error) an awakening. From there, at 11-1, Cleveland scored once more (sad trombone, a rally against Hagen Smith in his Cactus League debut) and the South Siders rallied furiously for two, courtesy of three singles and a walk.
Yes, Sean Burke may have fallen behind in the race for the rotation. Sure, Jedixson Paez may have punched his ticket back to Boston with a dog-awful outing. Yeppers, the White Sox were suffocated to one hit over the first seven innings, while coughing up 16 to Cleveland batters for the game. And indeed, the Chicago offense mustered just one extra-base hit and three walks against 11 Ks in the contest. But at least no one but the 3,933 dear souls at Camelback Ranch was able to see any of it.
Oscar Piastri is hoping to become the first home driver to win the Australian Grand Prix as an F1 event [Getty Images]
McLaren's Oscar Piastri finished the first day of the new Formula 1 season in first place after Friday practice at the Australian Grand Prix.
The narrative of the weekend so far has been about Aston Martin's plight at the back of the field as much as the fight at the front, following the biggest regulation change in the sport's history.
Aston Martin finished the day five seconds off the pace, and team principal Adrian Newey has laid bare the team's struggles across two compelling news conferences.
Newey also revealed that star driver Fernando Alonso is in a "hard mental place" as a result of engine partner Honda's lack of performance and reliability, and that he himself "feels a bit powerless".
At the front of the field, Piastri was 0.214 seconds quicker than Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli at the end of the second session.
The Italian's team-mate George Russell was third fastest, ahead of Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc and Red Bull's Max Verstappen.
World champion Lando Norris, seventh fastest in his McLaren ahead of the impressive 18-year-old British rookie Arvid Lindblad in the Racing Bull, was affected by a gearbox problem in the first session.
The competitive picture is still unclear after a day on which many of the teams and drivers admitted they were struggling to work out the optimum use of energy with this year's new engines. Management of the hybrid system is critical with the power split about 50-50 between internal combustion engine and electrical power.
Mercedes, though, set highly impressive times on their race-distance runs late in the session that seemed to underline their position as pre-season favourites.
Russell looked as if he had an advantage over the rest of the field of as much as 0.6secs a lap on his long run, leaving Leclerc sounding a little resigned.
Ferrari were fancied by many coming into the season and spent much of the day at the top of the times, only to be usurped by McLaren and Mercedes.
Leclerc said: "P1 looked positive but then in P2 the teams are showing little by little a bit more and unfortunately we seem to be on the back foot especially compared to Mercedes, who look very strong.
"I don't think they showed everything on low fuel but on high fuel it was very impressive. It is the first time probably we see how much (of a gap) there is to them and it is a bit more than I would have liked."
Australian Piastri said: "If you can operate the car roughly how you expect it to, then you find a huge amount of lap time.
"I think we have been there or thereabouts. don't think we ever thought we were a long way behind Mercedes and Ferrari. I think we thought we were just a little step behind."
Antonelli added: "Massive learning every time we go on track and we understand more about the track. It looks like it is a close fight with the top teams. It is not going to be easy. Ferrari, McLaren, Red Bull, they all look strong."
Verstappen's pace was hidden by problems on his soft tyre runs and an off at the high-speed Turn 10 on his long run.
The focus has been on Aston Martin as a result of major problems with their Honda engine.
Alonso missed the entire first session because of vibration problems with his engine but was able to do 17 laps in the second, although he was 4.933 seconds off the pace in 20th place.
Aston Martin's biggest issue is the fact that vibrations from the engine are causing the batteries to break. Newey revealed the team are down to their last two batteries. "That, given our kind of rate of battery damage, is quite a scary place to be in," he said.
Alonso said: "Not much learning to be honest, unfortunately the Honda issue in P1 and some Honda issues in P2 as well a little bit limited our number of laps today. That was not needed again because we need to recover a little bit in terms of understanding the car and the window where this car operates.
"We brought a completely new (aerodynamic) package into this race and we need to understand where to run it. Hopefully more laps tomorrow.
"Obviously I feel disappointed to not have more batteries in stock, only supplying one team but it is more a question for them."
Completing the top 10 was the second Red Bull of Isack Hadjar and Haas' Esteban Ocon, whose British team-mate Oliver Bearman was 11th.
The headline lap times may well not be a true reflection of outright pace as the top teams all did their laps at different times of the session - Mercedes running relatively early and Piastri late, when the track would have been faster.
SAN ANTONIO — In their second and final game of the regular season against one of the Western Conference's top contenders, the Detroit Pistons fell short.
They lost to the San Antonio Spurs on the road, 121-106, on Thursday, March 6, to fall to 45-16. Former No. 1 overall pick Victor Wembanyama (38 points, 16 rebounds and five blocks) and De'Aaron Fox (29 points) lifted San Antonio offensively and they held the Pistons to 40.2% shooting.
Cade Cunningham, a former No. 1 overall pick himself, led the Pistons with 26 points and eight rebounds, but was held to 38.5% shooting. The Pistons trailed by as many as 22 points early in the third quarter before getting within eight points with a 25-11 run. But the Spurs pulled away with a 12-7 run to open the fourth, and outscored the Pistons 28-21 in the final period.
Ausar Thompson exited the game early with 9:56 remaining in the first quarter after rolling his right ankle. He was later listed as questionable with a right ankle sprain but didn’t return to the game. Ron Holland also exited the game midway through the third quarter with a left eye injury, after he was inadvertently smacked in the face by Wembanyama.
With the loss, the Pistons (45-16) again saw their lead in the Eastern Conference shaved to 4½ games over the Boston Celtics. Still, the Pistons lead the Central Division by seven games over the Cleveland Cavaliers with 21 to play, and have a 12-game lead over the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat in their quest to clinch a playoff spot.
Next up for the Pistons
After their three-game trip vs. playoff contenders – in which they went 1-2 – it’s a slightly easier test as the Pistons return home to Little Caesars Arena to host the Heat on Saturday (7 p.m., FanDuel Sports Network Detroit) on the front end of a weekend back-to-back. After the Heat, the Pistons will head to New York to face the Brooklyn Nets – a draft lottery contender – on Sunday night.
Spurs slow down Cunningham, again
The Pistons superstar had one of his worst games of the season against the Spurs last Monday, finishing with 16 points and 10 assists on 5-for-26 shooting. San Antonio made him uncomfortable all night in their rematch Thursday, showing that the first game wasn't a fluke.
The Spurs are stacked with big, lengthy perimeter defenders who can match Cunningham. With Stephon Castle at the point of attack, multiple defenders meeting him during drives and Wembanyama lurking in the paint, Cunningham struggled to find space.
As the game progressed, Cunningham got more aggressive in taking shots the moment he had a window. On back-to-back possessions in the fourth, Cunningham knocked down a turnaround midrange jumper and then pulled up from 3 over Castle's outstretched arms. He knocked down the 3 and completed a four-point play after drawing a foul, cutting the deficit to 113-103.
Defense falters without Thompson
Other than Isaiah Stewart – playing in his second game back from suspension – no player is more important to the Pistons' defensive identity than Thompson. He's among the best in the league as a point-of-attack defender and reliably makes life difficult for top ball-handlers.
The Pistons missed him after he left early in the first quarter with an ankle injury. With Thompson out, Fox attacked the paint with ease and scored 22 in the first half on 9-for-12 shooting. He and Wembanyama had more offensive success Thursday compared to the first game in Detroit, with Wembanyama selling contact and getting into an early groove.
Wembanyama and Fox were responsible for 46 of San Antonio's 71 points in the first half, on 16-for-26 shooting. It was one of the Pistons' worst defensive halves of the season, allowing the Spurs to shoot 55.6% overall as a team with just five turnovers.
Huerter lifts offense in third quarter
The Pistons' offense is powered by transition opportunities. When they're struggling to force turnovers, as they did against the Spurs, they're forced to play in the halfcourt, where their lack of 3-point shooting and secondary creation next to Cunningham is often exposed.
Trade-deadline pickup Kevin Huerter helped open things up in the second half, though, with seven points on 3-for-4 shooting. Coach J.B. Bickerstaff went deeper into his bench searching for a spark, and the new arrival delivered some of his best minutes in a Pistons uniform.
SAN ANTONIO — In their second and final game of the regular season against one of the Western Conference's top contenders, the Detroit Pistons fell short.
They lost to the San Antonio Spurs on the road, 121-106, on Thursday, March 6, to fall to 45-16. Former No. 1 overall pick Victor Wembanyama (38 points, 16 rebounds and five blocks) and De'Aaron Fox (29 points) lifted San Antonio offensively and they held the Pistons to 40.2% shooting.
Cade Cunningham, a former No. 1 overall pick himself, led the Pistons with 26 points and eight rebounds, but was held to 38.5% shooting. The Pistons trailed by as many as 22 points early in the third quarter before getting within eight points with a 25-11 run. But the Spurs pulled away with a 12-7 run to open the fourth, and outscored the Pistons 28-21 in the final period.
Ausar Thompson exited the game early with 9:56 remaining in the first quarter after rolling his right ankle. He was later listed as questionable with a right ankle sprain but didn’t return to the game. Ron Holland also exited the game midway through the third quarter with a left eye injury, after he was inadvertently smacked in the face by Wembanyama.
With the loss, the Pistons (45-16) again saw their lead in the Eastern Conference shaved to 4½ games over the Boston Celtics. Still, the Pistons lead the Central Division by seven games over the Cleveland Cavaliers with 21 to play, and have a 12-game lead over the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat in their quest to clinch a playoff spot.
Next up for the Pistons
After their three-game trip vs. playoff contenders – in which they went 1-2 – it’s a slightly easier test as the Pistons return home to Little Caesars Arena to host the Heat on Saturday (7 p.m., FanDuel Sports Network Detroit) on the front end of a weekend back-to-back. After the Heat, the Pistons will head to New York to face the Brooklyn Nets – a draft lottery contender – on Sunday night.
Spurs slow down Cunningham, again
The Pistons superstar had one of his worst games of the season against the Spurs last Monday, finishing with 16 points and 10 assists on 5-for-26 shooting. San Antonio made him uncomfortable all night in their rematch Thursday, showing that the first game wasn't a fluke.
The Spurs are stacked with big, lengthy perimeter defenders who can match Cunningham. With Stephon Castle at the point of attack, multiple defenders meeting him during drives and Wembanyama lurking in the paint, Cunningham struggled to find space.
As the game progressed, Cunningham got more aggressive in taking shots the moment he had a window. On back-to-back possessions in the fourth, Cunningham knocked down a turnaround midrange jumper and then pulled up from 3 over Castle's outstretched arms. He knocked down the 3 and completed a four-point play after drawing a foul, cutting the deficit to 113-103.
Defense falters without Thompson
Other than Isaiah Stewart – playing in his second game back from suspension – no player is more important to the Pistons' defensive identity than Thompson. He's among the best in the league as a point-of-attack defender and reliably makes life difficult for top ball-handlers.
The Pistons missed him after he left early in the first quarter with an ankle injury. With Thompson out, Fox attacked the paint with ease and scored 22 in the first half on 9-for-12 shooting. He and Wembanyama had more offensive success Thursday compared to the first game in Detroit, with Wembanyama selling contact and getting into an early groove.
Wembanyama and Fox were responsible for 46 of San Antonio's 71 points in the first half, on 16-for-26 shooting. It was one of the Pistons' worst defensive halves of the season, allowing the Spurs to shoot 55.6% overall as a team with just five turnovers.
Huerter lifts offense in third quarter
The Pistons' offense is powered by transition opportunities. When they're struggling to force turnovers, as they did against the Spurs, they're forced to play in the halfcourt, where their lack of 3-point shooting and secondary creation next to Cunningham is often exposed.
Trade-deadline pickup Kevin Huerter helped open things up in the second half, though, with seven points on 3-for-4 shooting. Coach J.B. Bickerstaff went deeper into his bench searching for a spark, and the new arrival delivered some of his best minutes in a Pistons uniform.
One thing we know about a Steve Pikiell-led team is that it will not quit.
Rutgers fell behind by as many as 19 in the second half against Michigan State, and 15 with just over a minute remaining.
The Scarlet Knights made their final nine shots, scoring 21 points in the final 79 seconds, and came within range of what would have been a historic comeback.
The Spartans knocked down free throws in the end and Rutgers ran out of time during a 91-87 loss in East Lansing. Rutgers is now 0-9 all-time at the Breslin Center.
Tariq Francis led Rutgers (12-18, 5-14) with 25 points and five assists while Lino Mark added 14 points. Both knocked down big-time shots in the final minute to get Rutgers within shouting distance.
A low-scoring start played at a snail’s pace allowed Rutgers to hang around in the first half. The Scarlet Knights led 12-9 eight minutes into the game and 25-22 with five minutes remaining.
Rutgers forced Michigan State (25-5, 15-4) to play a half-court game in the first half, but the Spartans transition attack got going in the second and it led to a highlight reel.
Coen Carr slammed three dunks on consecutive possessions, including two alley-oops, followed by a Jordan Scott dunk — all assisted by Jeremy Fears Jr. — to get the crowd off its feet and build a double-digit lead.
Carr and Fears Jr. scored 21 points each. The point guard added eight assists. The Spartans scored 46 points in the paint and outrebounded Rutgers, 38-21.
The deficit ballooned to 19 with 6:17 remaining, but Rutgers was able to catch fire and put a scare into the Spartans before the comeback attempt fell short.
Rutgers will return home to take on Penn State in the regular-season finale on Saturday afternoon. With a win, the Scarlet Knights will secure a first-round bye in the Big Ten Tournament.
BYU guard Richie Saunders (15) points to forward AJ Dybantsa (3) after Saunders scored a basket on an assist from Dybantsa during a game held at the Marriott Center in Provo on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026.
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Isaac Hale, Deseret News
It shouldn’t surprise anyone to learn that Richie Saunders’ first basket at BYU was the result of his first steal. The 6-foot-5, newly returned missionary stole the ball and scored a layup with 6:50 remaining in the first half against Idaho State on Nov. 7, 2022.
It was one of Saunders’ 133 steals over the next four seasons. He also scored 1,544 points and grabbed 522 rebounds in 128 games. His BYU story is loaded with exciting chapters and bookended by tremendous joy and agonizing pain.
Just moments into the Cougars’ game against Colorado on Feb. 10, Saunders landed awkwardly and tore the ACL in his right knee, bringing his college career to an abrupt end. Mending from surgery, Saunders will return to the bench Saturday for his Senior Night when BYU hosts No. 10 Texas Tech (8:30 p.m. MST, ESPN).
He won’t play, but head coach Kevin Young hopes his presence will inspire the same effort the Cougars showed two weeks ago when Saunders cheered them on to a 79-69 upset of No. 6 Iowa State. Without their glue-guy around, BYU has come unglued and lost three straight games in disappointing fashion.
Saunders has proven to mean so much more than points and rebounds to the Cougar program. In an era where it’s hard to find a star senior who has been shining at the same school his entire career, Saunders glistens. He is BYU and is the only player on record to choose the Cougars three times.
As a young boy, he dreamt about it. As a teenager at Riverton High and Wasatch Academy, he prepared for it, and following his mission to Seattle, he prayed about it — and jumped at the opportunity to play for the Cougars.
Following his sophomore season, which ended with head coach Mark Pope exiting Provo for Kentucky, Saunders withstood the luring from his former coach. He withdrew from the transfer portal and chose to stay at BYU and play for Young and the new staff.
To everyone’s surprise, except for him and his wife Sierra, Saunders elevated his game so significantly that he earned First Team All-Big 12 and Most Improved Player honors following his junior season. Again, with NBA possibilities dangling in front of him, he chose to stay at BYU to, as he wrote on his Instagram account, “Finish what we started.”
The ride Saunders has been on is what dreams are made of — even with the nightmare finish that brought an end to what he started four years ago. Bolstered by a knee brace, Saunders now stands as a senior statesman. Everybody is gone from that first roster except for teammate Jared McGregor and director of sports medicine Robert Ramos.
Saunders is a survivor, a warrior, a kind-hearted soul with a hankering for marketing Tater Tots. He dazzled crowds with his relentless hustle and bedazzled opponents with reverse layups they couldn’t stop, and 3-point shots they struggled to defend.
Admittedly, his faith-first approach has anchored him through all the ups and downs, including the current one, and his NIL compensation appropriately buffers his future, whether he keeps playing basketball or not.
A packed Marriott Center will celebrate Saunders’ career Saturday night when public address announcer Trace Eddington calls his name one more time. A standing ovation is sure to come when Saunders and his wife gingerly make their way to midcourt to embrace his coach, school president Shane Reese and athletic director Brian Santiago.
His BYU journey is complete, but just like a classic rock band, Saunders’ greatest hits will last forever.
Sinking Arizona
(Feb. 22, 2025)
A layup by Saunders with 41 seconds remaining gave BYU a 94-90 lead at No. 19 Arizona. The Wildcats countered with the next 5 points, putting the Cougars on the brink of a heartbreaking defeat.
BYU forward Richie Saunders (15) drives against Arizona guard Jaden Bradley (0) during BYU victory over the Wildcats Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, in Tucson, Ariz.
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Rick Scuteri, Associated Press
With the ball and a last chance, Saunders drove to the basket and drew a questionable foul. Three seconds remained as he stood on the line. Arizona’s verbal resistance was deafening. They were yelling at the official who made the call and at Saunders, who was about to make them pay for it.
The junior, who finished with 23 points, hit the first shot to tie the game and then he drilled the second to win it for BYU 96-95.
Heartland hero
(March 4, 2025)
Rolling into Ames, Iowa, as an underdog, Saunders and the Cougars took their swing at No. 10 Iowa State and dropped them to the canvas in double overtime 88-85. Saunders scored 23 points, including 13 for 13 from the free-throw line.
Two of his foul shots gave BYU a 68-66 lead with 17 seconds remaining in overtime. The Cyclones tied the score and had a chance to win the game, but Saunders stole the ball with one second remaining.
In the second overtime, Saunders hit a shot with 3:44 to play to give BYU an 83-79 lead and the Cougars held on from there for their first win at Hilton Coliseum.
Rinse and repeat
(March 13, 2025)
Nine days later, in the quarterfinals of the Big 12 tournament in Kansas City, Saunders riddled No. 12 Iowa State for another 23 points, and the Cougars beat the Cyclones again 96-92.
Brigham Young Cougars forward Richie Saunders (15) puts up a shot during a quarterfinals game between BYU and the Iowa State Cyclones at the Big 12 Championship at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri, on Thursday, March 13, 2025.
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Brice Tucker, Deseret News
Saunders hit a 3-point shot with 49 seconds remaining to give the Cougars a 92-88 lead. Seconds later, he blocked the 3-point attempt by Cyclones sharp shooter Milan Momcilovic and with seven seconds to play, Saunders hit two free throws to put the game out of reach.
March Madness
(March 22, 2025)
Saunders scored 25 points and grabbed seven rebounds to lead No. 17 BYU past No. 13 Wisconsin 91-89 in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Saunders broke a 2-2 tie with a 3-point shot 55 seconds into the game to give the Cougars a lead they would never lose.
Late in the game, with the Badgers making a charge, Saunders hit two free throws with 1:25 to play to extend BYU’s lead to 91-83. The win put the Cougars into the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2011, when Saunders was a 10-year-old boy dreaming of one day doing just that.
Badgering the Badgers
(Nov. 21, 2025)
In a rematch at the Delta Center last November, Saunders picked up where he left off at the Big Dance and blistered No. 23 Wisconsin for 26 points and seven rebounds. He hit a 3-pointer with 16:31 left in the first half to give BYU an 8-6 lead. Saunders hit another one a few seconds later and the 98-70 blowout was on.
Near perfection
(Jan. 7, 2026)
Saunders scored 31 points in BYU’s 104-76 victory against Arizona State at the Marriott Center. In an impressive display of shooting, Saunders was 10 for 13 from the field, 6 of 8 from 3 and 5 for 5 at the foul line. He also grabbed eight rebounds and dished out three assists.
BYU Cougars guard Richie Saunders (15) maintains his stance watching a 3-point shot drop in as the Cougars and Arizona State Sun Devils play in the Marriott Center in Provo on Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026.
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Scott G Winterton, Deseret News
Arizona State will be happy to see Saunders graduate. In their three games against BYU as members of the Big 12, the Sun Devils are 0-3 and, in those battles, Saunders combined for 87 points, including 18 3-pointers.
Beating Utah
(Jan. 10, 2026)
In his last chance to beat rival Utah at the Huntsman Center in Salt Lake City, Saunders scored 24 points and grabbed 14 rebounds to lead the Cougars to an 89-84 victory. His two free throws with eight seconds left sealed the win.
Career night
(Jan. 31, 2026)
Saunders biggest night as a Cougar happened 1,100 miles away from Provo in the land where basketball began — Lawrence, Kansas, at the storied Allen Fieldhouse. With the rest of the team struggling, Saunders turned in a night for the ages in a 90-82 loss at No. 14 Kansas.
The senior made 11 of 19 shots, including six 3-pointers. He also grabbed 10 rebounds while playing a team-high 38:57 minutes. Just as he had done throughout his career, Saunders left it all out on the floor.
BYU will continue to attract top talents to play basketball, but as for finding another Richie Saunders — a four-year loyalist with the motor of a 4-year-old after a nap — that’s going to be tough to do.
BYU head coach Kevin Young, left, talks with guard Richie Saunders during game against Kansas, Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, in Lawrence, Kan.
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Colin E. Braley, Associated Press
Dave McCann is a sportswriter and columnist for the Deseret News and is a play-by-play announcer and show host for BYUtv/ESPN+. He co-hosts “Y’s Guys” at ysguys.com and is the author of the children’s book “C is for Cougar,” available at deseretbook.com.
Leon Slater defeated Nic Nemeth to retain his X-Division Championship during Thursday night's "TNA Impact."
Slater started the match out strong, getting the better of the first exchange before taking Nemeth out on the outside of the ring. As he tried to get back in the ring, Ryan Nemeth at ringside pulled on his leg, creating enough of a distraction for Nemeth to connect with the Famouser for a near-fall.
Nemeth carried on with the advantage until Slater reversed an Irish Whip into the corner, sending Nemeth clattering into the turnbuckle. Slater sought to press on, hitting a rebound heel kick for his own near-fall. However, Nemeth swung the momentum back in his favor with his signature DDT for another near-fall.
Nemeth looked for Danger Zone but Slater fought out of it, looking for a handspring back elbow to no avail before connecting with a standing Blue Thunderbomb for another close count.
Slater went to the top, going for the Swanton 450 as Nemeth rolled out of the way, but ultimately connecting with the Styles Clash – a nod to the TNA legend and his idol. Once more he went for the Swanton 450, Nemeth got his knees up on the landing, going for the cover, getting a near-fall, and cinching in a rear choke in the middle of the ring.
Slater fought out of it, dropping his opponent to the mat and making his way back to his feet. Ryan Nemeth popped up on the apron, getting knocked back off of it by Slater, but once again giving the time and space for Nemeth to connect with a superkick.
The third attempted Swanton 450 proved to be the charm for Slater, connecting with it and securing the winning pinfall to retain the title. Although he didn't have long to celebrate, Eric Young emerging to ambush him and piledrive him onto the floor.
SAN ANTONIO (AP) — Victor Wembanyama had 38 points, 16 rebounds and five blocks and the San Antonio Spurs never trailed in completing a sweep of Detroit, beating the Pistons 121-106 on Thursday night.
De'Aaron Fox had 29 points, and Stephon Castle added 11 points and 12 assists in San Antonio's first game at home after a nearly a month-long trip.
Cade Cunningham had 26 points and Isaiah Stewart added 18 points in Detroit's second straight loss. The Pistons, who closed their trip 1-2, remained atop the Eastern Conference at 45-16.
A potential NBA Finals matchup resulted in another double-digit victory for the red-hot Spurs.
San Antonio has won 13 of 14 games, including a 114-103 victory over the Pistons on Feb. 23 in Detroit, and remain second in the West at 45-17.
The Spurs rolled to a 10-2 lead in their first game in San Antonio since Feb. 7. The lead expanded to 17 points in the opening quarter as the Spurs shot 54% on 3-pointers.
Detroit lost Ausur Thompson two minutes into the game when he sprained his right ankle.
San Antonio was 13 for 37 on 3-pointers in shooting 35%.
Wembanyama was 4 for 10 on 3-pointers while playing before 30 of his countrymen who traveled from France to attend San Antonio's six-game homestand.
Wembanyama had back-to-back dunks in the second quarter, including grabbing his own miss and throwing it down for what became a three-point play on a foul by Javonte Green.
In the fourth quarter, Wembanyama blocked Cunningham’s running floater then ran downcourt for an alley-oop dunk off a feed from Devin Vassell to give the Spurs a 103-90 lead.
Up next
Pistons: Host Brooklyn on Saturday night.
Spurs: Host the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday night.
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