Realme has introduced the Realme C83 5G, adding a new model to its C-series lineup. The device focuses on long battery life, durability features, and a high refresh rate display in the budget segment.

The smartphone runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor, a 6nm octa-core chipset with two Cortex-A76 cores clocked at 2.4GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores at 2GHz, paired with the Arm Mali-G57 MC2 GPU. It is available with 4GB or 6GB LPDDR4X RAM, along with Dynamic RAM expansion up to 12GB. Storage options include 64GB and 128GB eMMC 5.1, and users can expand storage up to 2TB using a microSD card through the hybrid dual SIM slot.

On the front, the phone carries a 6.8-inch IPS LCD display with an HD+ resolution of 1570 × 720 pixels. The panel supports a 144Hz refresh rate, up to 180Hz touch sampling rate, and 900 nits peak brightness, helping with smoother navigation and better visibility in bright environments.

The device runs Realme UI 7.0 based on Android 16. It also includes AI Outdoor Mode, a feature designed to improve usability outside. When activated, it increases screen brightness, boosts system performance, improves network responsiveness, and raises speaker output for clearer audio.

For photography, the Realme C83 5G is equipped with a 13MP rear camera with an f/2.2 aperture and LED flash. On the front, it offers a 5MP camera with an f/2.2 aperture for selfies and video calls.

The phone features a vertical dual-camera layout on the back and comes in two color options: Blooming Purple and Sprouting Green. Blooming Purple mixes blue and purple tones, while Sprouting Green takes inspiration from fresh plant growth.

Durability is another focus of the device. The phone carries IP64 dust and splash resistance, ArmorShell Protection, and MIL-STD 810H military-grade shock resistance certification.

The Realme C83 5G measures 166.3 × 78.1 × 8.4 mm and weighs 212 grams. It includes a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, 3.5mm headphone jack, and a bottom-ported speaker with 300 percent Ultra Volume.

Connectivity features include 5G SA and NSA bands (n1, n3, n5, n8, n28B, n40, n41, n77, n78), dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11ac (2.4GHz and 5GHz), Bluetooth 5.3, GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, and USB Type-C.

Powering the phone is a 7000mAh battery with 15W fast charging. The device also supports reverse wired charging and bypass charging, and Realme says the battery is designed to provide up to six years of reliable usage.

Pricing & availability

The Realme C83 5G starts at ₹13,499 for the 4GB + 64GB model, while the 4GB + 128GB version costs ₹14,499. The 6GB + 128GB variant is priced at ₹17,499. The phone will go on sale March 7, 2026 through Flipkart, realme.com, and offline retail stores, with six months of no-cost EMI available for buyers.

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Xiaomi has launched the Redmi Buds 8 Active (Vitality Edition) in China. The new wireless earbuds focus on sound quality, stable connectivity, and long battery life at a low price.

The earbuds use a 14.2 mm large dynamic driver with a titanium-plated diaphragm. This setup is designed to deliver clearer sound and stronger bass. The earbuds also support the AAC audio codec, which helps maintain audio quality during wireless playback.

Xiaomi has added wind noise reduction that works at speeds of up to 6 meters per second. This helps reduce noise when listening outdoors or while moving. For calls, the earbuds use dual microphones with AI call noise reduction. The system is designed to filter background noise and improve voice clarity during calls.

The Redmi Buds 8 Active (Vitality Edition) use a semi-in-ear design. This is similar to the design used in the Redmi Buds 8 Lite that was recently launched globally. The earbuds rest lightly in the ear and are designed for everyday use and longer listening sessions.

Battery life is one of the main highlights. Each earbud includes a 37 mAh battery. Xiaomi says the earbuds can deliver up to 7 hours of playback on a single charge. The charging case carries a 475 mAh battery. With the case, the total listening time can reach up to 37 hours.

For connectivity, the earbuds support Bluetooth 5.4. This version helps improve connection stability and power efficiency. The earbuds also come with an IP54 rating, which protects them from dust and water splashes from any direction.

The Redmi Buds 8 Active (Vitality Edition) support Xiaomi HyperOS Connect. This allows features such as smart device search, dual device connection, audio sharing, and quick pairing pop-ups when used with compatible Xiaomi devices. The earbuds also work with the Xiaomi Earbuds app for additional settings and controls.

Pricing & availaiblity

In China, the Redmi Buds 8 Active (Vitality Edition) are priced at 119 yuan. The earbuds are available in three colors: Transparent Blue, Matte Black, and Cream White. Information about a possible global launch has not been announced yet.

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LG Electronics has introduced the LG Sound Suite, a new premium home audio system in South Korea. The system focuses on delivering spatial sound throughout the home without requiring fixed wired speaker placement. LG says the setup is designed for watching movies and sports, streaming music, and regular TV viewing. It was initially unveiled at CES 2026 back in January.

Flexible multi-speaker system

The Sound Suite lineup includes four main components. The Soundbar H7 serves as the central hub and manages sound processing using AI. The M7 and M5 models act as surround speakers that can be placed in different parts of the room to create a wider soundstage. The W7 subwoofer is responsible for handling low frequencies and providing deeper bass.

LG says the system supports up to 50 configuration combinations. When users build the system around the soundbar, there are 28 possible configurations. A setup centered around an LG TV allows 22 combinations. The largest configuration uses the Soundbar H7, four M7 surround speakers, and the W7 subwoofer. In this setup, the system outputs 13.1.7 channels designed for full multi-directional audio.

Audio technologies and features

One of the main features is Dolby Atmos FlexConnect. This technology identifies where speakers are placed and adjusts the audio output automatically. Users can place speakers freely around the room without losing spatial audio accuracy. The feature works with LG premium TVs released in 2025 and 2026 for synchronized sound output.

Sound Follow is another key feature. It uses ultra-wideband wireless technology and the LG ThinQ app to detect where the listener is located. The system then adjusts the audio so the user hears sound from the best listening position.

Room Calibration Pro analyzes the size, layout, and acoustic characteristics of the room. Based on this analysis, the system adjusts audio output to suit the installed environment.

The system is powered by LG’s third-generation Alpha11 AI processor. Through AI Sound Pro+, it identifies voices, music, and sound effects, then adjusts levels for clearer playback. AI Upmix also expands low-channel audio into multi-channel output so all speakers in the setup are used.

Peerless premium drivers are included to deliver balanced high and low frequencies. The system supports wireless streaming through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, with stereo and standalone listening modes available.

Price and availability

LG will begin selling the Sound Suite in South Korea starting April 2026 through LGE.COM and LG Best Shop retail stores.

The Soundbar H7 is priced at 1,299,000 won, which is around $880 or ₹80,650. The W7 subwoofer costs 799,000 won, about $541. The M7 surround speaker is priced at 549,000 won, about $372. The M5 surround speaker costs 449,000 won, about $304.

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Anker has released the Nano Smart Shield Magnetic Power Bank in China. The portable charger introduces the company’s new Smart Shield safety system, which focuses on improving battery monitoring and protection.

The device includes an internal system that monitors battery conditions in real time. Anker says the Smart Shield system can detect temperature-related issues immediately when charging begins. A built-in battery management system continues monitoring throughout the charging cycle. The power bank also uses dual-core protection along with flame-retardant materials inside the body to improve overall safety.

Another feature highlighted by the company is battery traceability. Each unit includes a unique identification number that allows users to check manufacturing details for the battery cell.

The power bank is equipped with a 10,000 mAh battery and a rated capacity of 6,200 mAh. It uses ATL battery cells, which Anker states come from the same supplier used by Apple. Charging is available through both wired and wireless methods.

The front magnetic pad supports wireless charging up to 7.5W, allowing compatible smartphones to attach magnetically while charging. For faster charging, the USB-C port supports up to 27W output. The same USB-C port is also used to recharge the power bank itself.

A small LCD display is placed on the side of the device. The screen shows real-time charging data including battery percentage, charging status, and estimated charging time remaining.

The design also includes a foldable built-in stand, allowing the attached smartphone to stay upright during charging. This makes it easier to watch videos or use the device hands-free while power is being delivered.

The Nano Smart Shield Magnetic Power Bank measures 107 mm × 68.9 mm × 21.8 mm and weighs 233 g. It is available in three color options: black, white, and blue. Because the battery capacity is below 27,000 mAh, the power bank is permitted on airplanes according to airline carry-on regulations.

Pricing & availability

The product is currently available in China for CNY 369 (around $54). Anker has not yet confirmed whether the Nano Smart Shield Magnetic Power Bank will launch in other markets.

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Fresh leaks have now revealed the full specifications of the upcoming Galaxy A37 and Galaxy A57, offering a clearer picture of what Samsung is preparing for the next cycle.

Both models reportedly keep the same 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. So the visual experience should remain largely unchanged. Battery capacity is also expected to stay at 5,000mAh on both devices.

Where things do change is the processor. Samsung is said to be moving to the Exynos 1480, replacing the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 used in the Galaxy A36. The switch could bring a modest bump in performance for everyday tasks.

Memory and storage options are expected to include:

• 6GB or 8GB RAM
• 128GB or 256GB storage
• No microSD expansion

The camera system also sees a small tweak. The main 50MP camera remains, but the ultra-wide sensor may increase from 8MP to 12MP. A 12MP selfie camera is expected on the front.

In terms of size, the device is tipped to measure 162.9 × 78.2 × 7.4mm and weigh about 196g. Samsung may offer several “Awesome” colors, including Charcoal, Graygreen, Lavender, and White. You can see the leaked renders below.

The Galaxy A57 also appears to follow a similar formula. Samsung will use the Exynos 1680, replacing the Exynos 1580 from the Galaxy A56. RAM and storage options reportedly mirror the A37, and the camera hardware also seems largely unchanged.

• 50MP main camera
• 12MP ultra-wide camera
• 5MP macro camera
• A 12MP front camera

Color options reportedly include Awesome Gray, Icyblue, Lilac, and Navy.

Physically, the Galaxy A57 is rumored to be slightly slimmer and lighter than its predecessor, measuring around 161.5 × 76.9 × 6.9mm and weighing about 192g. For reference, the Galaxy A56 measures 7.4mm in thickness and weighs 198g. So if the leaks are accurate, Samsung isn’t making any major change this year.

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Xiaomi may be getting ready to expand its budget tablet lineup once again. A new version of the REDMI Pad 2 has now surfaced in certification records, suggesting the device could be on the way.

As first reported by XiaomiTime, a tablet listed as the REDMI Pad 2 9.7-inch has appeared in the IMEI database of the GSMA. Devices typically show up in this database before their official launch, so its presence there usually indicates that the company is preparing the device for release.

The listing mentions three model numbers: 2604ERP4DG, 2604ERP4DC, and 2604ERP4DI. These kinds of suffixes often point to different regional variants. Based on the pattern Xiaomi has used in the past, DG is likely meant for the global market, DC could be the Chinese version, and DI may correspond to the Indian model.

Going by the name alone, the tablet will carry a 9.7-inch display. That would make it slightly smaller than many recent tablets that sit around the 11-inch mark. Devices in this size range usually aim for portability first, something that can be easily carried around for reading, watching videos, browsing, or quick tasks.

Connectivity options could vary depending on the model. The tablet is expected to come in both 4G LTE and Wi-Fi-only variants. There is also a chance the Wi-Fi version may launch under a different name in some markets. According to the report, it could appear internationally as the POCO C Pad. Xiaomi has done similar rebrands before, especially with its more affordable devices.

Other hardware details are still unclear at this stage. There’s no information yet about the chipset, battery size, cameras, or memory configurations. Still, the model number itself may hint at the timing. Xiaomi devices with codes starting with “2603” or “2604” have previously been tied to launches early in the year.

If that pattern holds, the REDMI Pad 2 9.7 could make its debut sometime around March or April 2026.

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Samsung’s Exynos chipsets have historically been less powerful than Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chipsets. The latter has always dominated key aspects, including CPU, GPU, and connectivity. However, the newly-released Exynos 2600 narrows the gap significantly. In fact, it outperforms the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 on several benchmarks.

In this detailed comparison, we’ll make sense of the benchmark scores and dive into the key differences to understand how the Exynos 2600 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 stack up against each other.

Let’s begin with a quick look at the spec sheet:

Exynos 2600 vs Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5: Benchmark scores

Since the Galaxy S26 trio has yet to reach Gizmochina’s house, we used NL Tech’s benchmark data. The Galaxy S26+ (Exynos 2600) and Galaxy S26 Ultra (Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5) were used in the testing.

Geekbench score (v6)

On Geekbench, the Exynos 2600 posts lower scores than the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. In the single-core test, the Snapdragon gets about 18% higher score, while the difference in multi-core scores is just 4%.

AnTuTu score (v11)

The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 shines on AnTuTu too, posting a total score close to 3.4 million (vs. 2.66 million on Exynos 2600). That 27% uplift in total score for the Snapdragon chip is also reflected in the CPU and GPU scores.

The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 also achieves a significantly higher score in the memory test, while the Exynos 2600 scores 3% higher in the user experience test.

3DMark score

Wild Life Extreme Stress Test

Benchmark results from the 3DMark Wild Life Extreme Stress Test show that the Dimensity 2600 performs on par with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. There isn’t a big gap in stability either.

Solar Bay Extreme Stress Test

The Exynos 2600 surprisingly outperforms the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in the Solar Bay Extreme Stress Test, which means that the latest phones have excellent ray tracing performance.

Now that we’re aware of the benchmark data, let’s dig further into the key differences to get a clearer picture.

Exynos 2600 vs Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5: Key differences

The Exynos 2600 was announced just three months after the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, as the world’s first smartphone chipset to use a 2nm process. In February 2026, it debuted with the Galaxy S26 series.

CPU, GPU, and NPU

The Exynos 2600 features a 10-core CPU, which includes one C1-Ultra prime core, three C1-Pro high-performance cores, and six C1-Pro high-efficiency cores. The Snapdragon 8 Elite uses a custom-designed Oryon CPU, featuring two Oryon prime cores (third-gen) and six Oryon performance cores (third-gen).

The Snapdragon 8 Elite benefits from a higher peak CPU speed, which is one of the reasons it scored higher in the single-core test on Geekbench. For graphics-intensive tasks, the Exynos 2600 relies on the Xclipse 960 GPU, while the Snapdragon chip uses the Adreno 840 GPU.

Both chipsets have highly capable GPUs with strong ray tracing capabilities. However, the Exynos 2600 may have an edge, as seen in 3DMark tests.

The Exynos 2600 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 feature advanced NPUs optimized for on-device generative AI. They also use AI to optimize connectivity, camera, and many other aspects.

Camera

The Exynos 2600 introduces an AI-powered Visual Perception System (VPS), which replaces the traditional ISP with a dedicated AI subsystem for real-time scene analysis, object recognition, and noise reduction. This enables ultra-high-res processing at 60fps with over 50% better power efficiency than the Exynos 2400.

The Exynos chip features Deep Learning Video Noise Reduction (DVNR) for noise reduction in low-light conditions and supports hybrid OIS + AI-EIS for better stabilization.

On the other hand, the Snapdragon 8 Elite offers 20-bit triple AI-ISPs, delivering 4x dynamic range, real-time semantic segmentation with up to 250 layers, and direct NPU access to raw sensor data for on-device AI processing. Additionally, the chip offers a range of features to further improve the camera output, including object eraser, skin/sky tone enhancements, Night Vision 3.0, video object eraser, and Snapdragon Audio Sense.

Connectivity

The Exynos 2600 features a redesigned connectivity setup with an external modem (Exynos Modem 5410), offloading cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth from the main 2nm die to improve the thermal efficiency and space for CPU/GPU.

The Exynos chip supports a higher peak download speed of 14.79Gbps (vs. 12.5Gbps) and a higher peak upload speed of 4.9Gbps (vs. 3.7Gbps) on a cellular connection compared to the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.

The Snapdragon chip features an integrated Snapdragon X85 5G modem with FastConnect 7900 for robust connectivity. Wi-Fi 7 supports a peak speed of 5.8Gbps. Furthermore, the chip includes AI-powered optimizations for traffic prioritization, seamless Wi-Fi/cellular switching, and enhanced satellite support.

Exynos 2600 vs Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5: Which is a better choice?

Since we haven’t yet tested an Exynos 2600-powered Samsung phone, it’s difficult to say whether it’s the same story this year or if the Exynos 2600 completely outperforms the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. However, based on the benchmark data and spec sheet, the Exynos 2500 appears to be significantly better than its predecessor, particularly in gaming performance.

The Exynos chip also introduces major camera upgrades, including Deep Learning Video Noise Reduction. It now features a redesigned connectivity system with an external modem, which claims to improve thermal efficiency.

That said, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 still delivers strong CPU performance and features a mature ISP with excellent imaging capabilities. Its robust connectivity system with better carrier support also makes a notable difference.

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Zebronics has launched the Zeb Juke Bar 9710C, a compact 5.1-channel soundbar system designed for home entertainment setups. The new model features a multi-speaker configuration with support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, aiming to deliver immersive surround sound for movies, music, and gaming.

Zebronics Zeb Juke Bar 9710C Specifications

The Zeb Juke Bar 9710C delivers a total output of 550W RMS. The system includes a soundbar, a wireless subwoofer, and two rear satellite speakers that form a full 5.1-channel surround configuration.

The subwoofer provides 190W output and uses a 13.33 cm driver to handle low-frequency audio. The main soundbar houses three drivers rated at 70W each, while the rear satellite speakers deliver 75W output per unit to enhance surround effects.

The audio system supports a frequency response range of 40Hz to 20kHz. Zebronics lists the signal-to-noise ratio at 78dB or higher and channel separation at 48dB or above. These specifications allow the system to deliver clear dialogue, detailed mid-range sound, and stronger bass output through the dedicated subwoofer.

For connectivity, the soundbar includes Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless streaming from smartphones and tablets. It also features TV eARC, Optical input, AUX input, and USB playback support. The USB port supports MP3 files and works with storage devices up to 32GB. It also includes an LED display for playback and connectivity details.

The soundbar measures 40.5 x 9 x 6.2 cm, while the subwoofer measures 15 x 18.5 x 29.5 cm. Each satellite speaker measures 9 x 6 cm. The complete system weighs about 4.3 kg. The design includes a matte finish and supports wall mounting for flexible installation.

Zebronics ships the package with the soundbar, wireless subwoofer, two satellite speakers, power adapters, cables, wall mount fasteners, and a remote control.

Pricing and Availability

The Zeb Juke Bar 9710C is currently available in India through Amazon at an introductory price of Rs. 16,999. The product comes with a one-year warranty.

In related news, Philips launched the TAB4230 soundbar, TAS4400 speaker, and SHP9500 headphones in India, while Xiaomi unveiled a budget Redmi Soundbar equipped with RGB lighting and a wireless subwoofer.

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Rollme has launched the Navis GPS Smartwatch, a feature-packed wearable designed for outdoor enthusiasts. The smartwatch is priced at $79.99 and is now available for purchase from the official store.

Rollme Navis Specifications

The Navis features L1+L5 dual-frequency GPS supporting GPS, BeiDou, GLONASS, and Galileo for fast and accurate positioning. It offers offline maps, reliable route tracking, and track-back navigation for both trails and city streets.

The device features a 1.43-inch AMOLED HD display with a 90% screen-to-body ratio and narrow bezels. The screen supports a 60Hz refresh rate, auto-brightness adjustments, and an Always-On Display (AOD) mode. Rollme allows users to customize the watch with dynamic watch faces, DIY video styles, and AI-generated designs by entering keywords.

The Navis is designed for durability with a metal case, MIL-STD 810H certification, and a 50-meter waterproof rating. It features a 600mAh battery, and as per the brand, it provides 15-20 days of daily use or up to 60 days on standby.

For health and fitness, the smartwatch supports 178+ sports modes and features a 4PD sensor for 24/7 monitoring of heart rate, blood oxygen, sleep, and stress levels. It also includes outdoor tools like a compass, barometer, altimeter, and a built-in LED flashlight for added safety and convenience during activities.

The Navis connects to smartphones via Bluetooth and allows users to answer calls, read messages, and receive notifications. It supports offline music playback and works with TWS headphones for hands-free listening. Rollme has added AI GPT integration, which provides instant answers to questions and translation support.

The Rollme Navis is available in Black and Silver.

In related news, Amazfit has launched the Active 3 Premium with a sapphire AMOLED display, offline maps, and up to 12 days of battery life, while Reebok has introduced the Stride smartwatch with an AMOLED display, GPS, and Bluetooth calling for $99.

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(Rollme)

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The OnePlus 15T was recently spotted on AnTuTu with an impressive score of 4.45 million. Now, the device, which bears the model number PLZ110, has appeared on Geekbench, suggesting that the brand could be internally testing its performance before launch.

OnePlus 15T Geekbench listing

The OnePlus 15T Geekbench listing reveals that it is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, 16GB of RAM, and Android 16. It scored 3,440 points in the single-core test and 10,523 points in the multi-core test.

The previously seen AnTuTu listing revealed that the OnePlus 15T will have LPDDR5x RAM, up to 512GB of UFS 4.1 storage, and 165Hz refresh rate support. The brand has already confirmed that it will be a compact phone with a 6.32-inch OLED display with ultra-thin bezels.

Despite its compact size, the OnePlus 15T will feature a massive 7,500mAh battery with 100W wired and 50W wireless charging support. The phone is also confirmed to feature a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto camera on the back, but it is unlikely to feature an ultra-wide lens. It will also have other features, such as an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor and an IP68/69 level of dust and water resistance.

OnePlus 15T launch date

OnePlus is expected to confirm the OnePlus 15T launch date in the coming week. Most likely, it may debut a few days after the Oppo Find N6, which is rumored to launch on March 17. Therefore, the 15T may launch toward the end of this month in China.

Globally, the OnePlus 15T’s tweaked version may release with the OnePlus 15s branding. This phone may break cover in the second quarter of this year.

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Oppo has officially teased the upcoming Oppo Watch X3 smartwatch, hinting that the device will debut soon in China. The company has confirmed that the wearable will arrive alongside the Oppo Find N6 foldable smartphone. Early teasers and leaks have already started revealing several details about its design and hardware.

Oppo Watch X3 design teased

According to official teasers shared by Oppo on Weibo, the Watch X3 will feature a design focused on durability and premium materials. The company has used promotional phrases that translate roughly to a titanium-focused design and strong protective build.

This suggests the smartwatch could feature a titanium alloy bezel or structural components, similar to the approach seen on its predecessor. Preview videos released by the brand indicate that the smartwatch will support several outdoor activity metrics. The interface appears capable of displaying information such as step count and altitude, suggesting that the device is being positioned for fitness tracking and outdoor usage scenarios.

The smartwatch was also previously spotted in China with the model number OWW261 during a radio certification process. Some reports claim that the device may feature a USB Type-C charging interface instead of the proprietary connectors commonly seen on smartwatches.

Oppo Watch X3 specifications (rumored)

Earlier this year, tipster Digital Chat Station have revealed that the Oppo Watch X3 may include 2GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage. The wearable is expected to pack a 632mAh battery and weigh around 68 grams. It may also support eSIM connectivity through an independent eUICC chip, allowing users to make calls or access data without needing a smartphone nearby.

The smartwatch is expected to arrive in several color options, including black, silver, titanium and orange. There are also early reports suggesting that Oppo could be working on a smaller Watch X3 mini variant, although details about this model remain unclear.

Industry sources indicate that the Oppo Watch X3 and the Oppo Find N6 foldable smartphone could be unveiled around March 17 in China, though the company has not yet confirmed the exact launch date.

Recently, a OnePlu watch with model number OPWWE261 was spotted at Elements Certification, revealing support for 10W charging. This watch, which is believed to be a rebranded version of Oppo Watch X3, is likely to be called the OnePlus Watch 4 when it hits the global market.

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After the god-tier M5 Max, the first benchmark results for the Apple MacBook Neo have surfaced online. The numbers suggest that the laptop’s CPU performance is very close to that of the Apple iPhone 16 Pro.

According to Apple’s official specifications, the MacBook Neo runs on the Apple A18 Pro chip, the same six-core processor found inside the iPhone 16 Pro.

However, the laptop version ships with a slightly reduced graphics configuration. While the iPhone 16 Pro has six GPU cores, the MacBook Neo includes five. The CPU cores are 6 on both. 

MacBook Neo Geekbench

With this setup, the MacBook Neo scored 3461 in single-core, 8668 in multi-core, and 31,286 in the Metal graphics test on Geekbench. For comparison, the iPhone 16 Pro posts 3445 single-core, 8624 multi-core, and 32,575 Metal.

These scores make the two devices nearly identical on the CPU side, which isn’t surprising given that they share the same chip architecture. The small gap in the Metal graphics score likely comes from the MacBook Neo’s reduced GPU core count.

The numbers also put the new laptop in an interesting position compared to older and newer Macs. For instance, the Apple MacBook Air (M1) scored 2346 single-core and 8342 multi-core in the same benchmark, meaning the MacBook Neo noticeably improves single-core performance while only slightly surpassing the M1 in multi-core tasks.

Meanwhile, the Apple MacBook Air M4 sits in a very different performance tier with 3696 single-core and 14,730 multi-core, far ahead in workloads that rely on multiple CPU cores.

The MacBook Neo also lands below devices like the Apple iPad Air (M3) in multi-core performance, which scores 11,678 points. However, it still outperforms more entry-level hardware, such as the Apple iPad (11th generation), which achieves 6036 points in multi-core performance.

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Poco appears to be preparing its next performance-focused smartphones for the global market. According to an industry insider, the Poco X8 Pro and Poco X8 Pro Max could launch globally on March 17, 2026.

If the details are accurate, both phones will follow a familiar strategy from Poco: bringing slightly modified versions of Xiaomi’s China-only devices to international markets. In this case, the upcoming models are expected to be based on the Redmi Turbo 5 and Redmi Turbo 5 Max.

The Poco X8 Pro is confirmed to feature MediaTek’s Dimensity 8500 Ultra chipset, which should offer solid performance for gaming, multitasking, and everyday use. On the front, the device is expected to include a 6.59-inch OLED display with 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, something that has become fairly standard in this segment.

Camera hardware looks fairly typical for a mid-range performance-centric phone. Reports suggest a 50MP Sony IMX882 primary sensor, paired with an 8MP ultrawide camera, while the front houses a 20MP selfie shooter.

One of the more interesting aspects may be the battery. The X8 Pro is rumored to pack a 7,560mAh battery, the same as the Redmi Turbo 5. This is unusually large for a device in this category. It’s also likely to support 100W fast charging, so topping up the battery shouldn’t take long.

Just like the Redmi Turbo 5 Max, the Poco X8 Pro Max is expected to pack a larger 6.83-inch 1.5K display and a more powerful MediaTek Dimensity 9500s chipset. Camera setup includes a 50MP Light Hunter 600 sensor, an 8MP ultrawide, and a 20MP selfie shooter.

Battery capacity could be another highlight. Global variants are rumored to include an 8,500mAh battery, while some reports suggest certain markets could see a 9,000mAh version. Charging is still expected to max out at 100W. With certifications already appearing in several regions, the launch may not be far off.

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(Source: Smartprix)

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Oppo announced the Oppo Reno 15 smartphones in China last November. Since the company typically refreshes the lineup every six months, the Oppo Reno 16 series likely isn’t too far away. A previous report has already tipped some shared specs for the upcoming devices.

A new leak now suggests Oppo could expand the lineup with a Pro Max model. According to tipster Digital Chat Station, the device is described as “super-sized,” reportedly featuring a 6.78-inch display.

Oppo Reno 16 Pro Max Specifications

The screen is said to offer 1.5K resolution and use an LTPO panel, with uniform bezels on all four sides. The most interesting detail, however, may be the chipset. The tipster claims the phone will run a flagship “N-1” Dimensity processor. While the exact model wasn’t confirmed, it could be a previous-generation flagship chip such as the MediaTek Dimensity 9400.

So far, the Reno series has typically used sub-premium processors, but if the leak is accurate, the lineup could move closer to the sub-flagship segment. 

As for cameras, the Reno 16 Pro Max is said to feature a 200-megapixel main camera alongside a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto lens. Interestingly, the Reno 16 Pro may also have a similar lens setup. The latter, however, is said to be powered by the Dimensity 8500 chip.  

If the leak proves accurate, the Reno 16 Pro Max could effectively replace the current Pro model as the lineup’s top-tier offering, bringing upgraded specs across the board. That bump in hardware may also come with a higher price tag, according to the tipster.

None of this is official yet, and Oppo hasn’t acknowledged the leak. Still, with testing already underway and a mid-year launch window hinted at, the Reno 16 series may not stay a mystery for much longer.

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Poco is expected to announce the Poco X8 Pro series of smartphones later this month globally. The brand has already announced that the lineup will feature phones powered by Dimensity 8500 and Dimensity 9500s chipsets. These chipsets are likely to power the Poco X8 Pro and X8 Pro Max, respectively. In a new development, the global and Indian versions of the X8 Pro Max have emerged on the Geekbench benchmarking platform.

Poco X8 Pro Max Geekbench listing

As can be seen in the above screenshots, the Poco X8 Pro Max’s global and Indian versions have appeared on Geekbench. These models have appeared with respective model numbers, such as 2602BPC18G and 2602BPC18I.

The global version has scored 2,659 and 8,369 points, respectively in the single-core and multi-core tests of Geekbench 6.5. On the other hand, the Indian version has recorded 2,616 and 8,401 points, respectively. The X8 Pro Max’s Geekbench listings have revealed the Dimensity 9500s performance for the first time. Reports have revealed that the upcoming Oppo Find X9s will also feature the said chipset.

For those who do not know, the Dimensity 9500s is a toned-down version of the existing Dimensity 9500, which was announced in October 2025. The Geekbench listing reveals that the single prime core of the D9500s operates at 3.73GHz. It also includes three cores working at 3.30GHz, four cores running at 2.40GHz, and Mali-G925 Immortalis MC11 graphics.

Being a more powerful offering, the Dimensity 9500 comes with a 1+3+4 architecture but with faster core speeds, such as 4.21GHz, 3.5GHz, and 2.7GHz. For graphics, it has Arm G1-Ultra onboard. When it comes to performance, the Dimensity 9500 can reach around 3,500 and 9,000 to 10,000 in the single-core and multi-core tests, respectively.

The Poco X8 Pro Max’s Geekbench listing also reveals Android 16 and 12GB RAM. Now that the device has appeared on the benchmarking site, it appears that the brand could be doing final testing before its launch. Some unconfirmed reports suggest that the series may launch on March 26.

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(via)

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Apple announced its M5 Max–powered MacBooks a couple of days ago, and its first benchmarks are finally in. A 16-inch MacBook Pro equipped with Apple’s M5 Max has appeared in the Geekbench, offering an early look at the chip’s performance.

Apple M5 Max Geekbench shows incredible multi-core performance

According to MacRumors, the tested configuration features an 18-core CPU, and it did incredibly well in the multi-core test. The chip posted a score of 29,233, which is even higher than Apple’s M3 Ultra’s 27,726 points in a 32-core CPU setup.

This result puts the M5 Max ahead of several other high-end Apple processors. The M3 Ultra in the Mac Studio scores 27,726 in Geekbench’s multi-core test, while the M4 Max inside the Mac Studio reaches 26,166. Another configuration of the M4 Max in a 16-inch MacBook Pro scored 25,702 points.

In other words, the new M5 Max delivers roughly a 5% improvement over the M3 Ultra and around 14 to 15% over the M4 Max in multi-core performance.

Single-core performance looks strong as well. The M5 Max scored 4,268 in Geekbench’s single-core test, putting it roughly in line with the standard M5 chip used in the 14-inch MacBook Pro. The result also exceeds the score of AMD’s high-end desktop processor, the Ryzen 9 9950X3D, which sits at around 3,395 in the same benchmark.

The tested M5 Max configuration includes a 40-core GPU. In Geekbench’s Metal graphics benchmark, the chip scored between 218,772 and 232,718 points. That’s roughly 20 percent higher than the M4 Max, but about 5 to 10 percent lower than the M3 Ultra.

That gap isn’t entirely surprising. The M3 Ultra is effectively two Max-class chips fused together, giving it significantly more GPU resources overall.

All told, the early benchmark results suggest the M5 Max offers around a 15 percent CPU improvement and roughly a 20 percent GPU uplift compared with the M4 Max.

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(Source)

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Asus has expanded its consumer PC lineup with the launch of the Asus V501 desktops and AiO V400 series. The new systems are designed to cater to different usage scenarios ranging from small offices and studios to family households that require dependable everyday computing. With compact designs and modern hardware, the lineup aims to provide balanced performance for both productivity and entertainment needs.

Asus V501 desktop specifications and features

The Asus V501 desktop lineup includes the V501MV mini-tower and the V501SV small-form-factor model. These systems are designed for environments such as small offices, startups, studios and home workspaces where reliable day-to-day computing is essential. The desktops are powered by up to Intel Core 7 240H processors and support up to 64GB DDR5 expandable memory, allowing them to handle tasks such as document processing, accounting software, virtual meetings and light design workloads.

Asus has also focused on stability for long working hours. The V501 desktop includes an advanced thermal design with copper heat pipes to maintain steady performance under sustained workloads. Noise levels can stay as low as 38dB even during heavy use, making the system suitable for professional environments like consultation rooms or creative studios. The desktops also feature an 80 Plus Bronze certified power supply that helps improve energy efficiency while reducing operational costs.

The Asus AiO V400 series includes the V470 and V440 models, designed for users who prefer a clutter-free workspace. These all-in-one systems combine the display and computing hardware in a single unit, reducing cable clutter and saving desk space. Powered by up to Intel Core 3 processors and paired with up to 8GB DDR5 RAM and SSD storage, the AiO V400 series supports tasks such as streaming, online learning, video calls and everyday multitasking.

Asus AiO V400 series price and availability

The Asus V501 desktops start at Rs 42,990 (~$470) and will be available from March 16 through Asus Exclusive Stores, the Asus eShop, Flipkart, Amazon and authorized retail partners. The AiO V470 starts at Rs 71,990 (~$785) and is already available through Asus Exclusive Stores, Croma, the Asus eShop, Flipkart and Amazon. The AiO V440 is expected to go on sale from April 14 through the same channels.

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The Motorola Edge 70 Fusion has been launched in India as a device that focuses on camera performance, battery life and AI-powered features. It also brings a slim design with a textured fabric finish and a high refresh rate display. Here’s a look at the specifications, features, and price of the device.

Motorola Edge 70 Fusion specifications and features

The Motorola Edge 70 Fusion features a 6.78-inch quad-curved AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. The panel supports HDR10+, a 100 percent DCI-P3 color gamut and 10-bit colour depth. Motorola says the screen can reach up to 5200 nits of peak brightness and is protected by Gorilla Glass 7i. The phone also includes dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support for an improved multimedia experience.

For photography, the device is equipped with a 50-megapixel Sony Lytia 710 primary camera with optical image stabilisation. The setup also includes a 13-megapixel ultra-wide camera with macro support and a dedicated light sensor.

On the front, the phone has a 32-megapixel selfie camera capable of recording 4K video. Camera software features include adaptive stabilisation, portrait modes with different focal lengths and AI-based photo enhancement tools.

The smartphone runs on the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 processor and comes with up to 12GB RAM and up to 256GB storage. It runs Hello UI based on Android 16 and is expected to receive three Android updates along with five years of security updates. The device carries a 7000mAh silicon-carbon battery with 68W fast charging, which the company claims can provide a full day’s usage with a short charge.

Motorola Edge 70 Fusion price in India, availability

The Motorola Edge 70 Fusion is available in three variants. The 8GB + 128GB model is priced at Rs 26,999 (~$300), the 8GB + 256GB version costs Rs 29,999 (~$330), and the 12GB + 256GB variant is priced at Rs 32,999 (~$360). With bank and exchange offers, the effective price starts at Rs 24,999.

The phone will be available in Pantone Blue Surf, Pantone Country Air and Pantone Silhouette colour options with a fabric-inspired finish. An early bird sale is scheduled for March 6 between 12pm and 4pm on Flipkart, while open sales will begin from March 12 through Flipkart, Motorola’s official website and retail stores across India.

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Xiaomi has introduced a new experimental AI project called Xiaomi miclaw. Announced today, the tool is designed to turn a smartphone into a more autonomous AI assistant that can carry out tasks across apps and system features.

The company describes Xiaomi miclaw as an early test product built on its in-house MiMo large language model. Rather than simply answering questions or generating text, the system is designed to interpret user intentions and complete tasks by interacting with different tools on the phone.

Once users grant permission, the AI can access system functions and supported third-party apps to carry out commands.

In practical terms, that means the assistant can choose which tools to use and decide how to complete a task on its own. If you remember, Honor smartphones with AI Agent can also perform similar actions.

For example, if a request requires opening an app, checking system data, or triggering a function, the AI decides the steps needed and executes them in sequence. Xiaomi says the system can also interpret less specific requests and attempt to translate them into concrete actions.

How is Xiaomi miclaw built?

At the core of the system is what Xiaomi calls an “inference-execution loop.” Here, AI first analyzes the request, which then selects a tool and parameters, executes the action, reviews the result, and continues the process until the task is finished. Each step is handled asynchronously, so the system doesn’t block other phone processes.

Xiaomi miclaw also includes a memory system intended to help the AI learn from repeated use. The assistant keeps track of important context while compressing older interactions so it can remember the original intent of longer tasks.

The assistant can also connect with Xiaomi’s broader ecosystem. Through integration with the company’s Mi Home platform, the AI can read the status of smart home devices and send control commands, provided the user allows it. 

Xiaomi is also opening the platform to developers. The system supports the Model Context Protocol (MCP), an open standard for integrating AI tools, which could allow existing AI utilities built for other platforms to work with Xiaomi miclaw. In addition, Xiaomi is releasing an SDK that lets third-party apps declare what capabilities they can offer so the AI can call them when needed.

Xiaomi miclaw is experimental and is supported by limited devices

The company says that the project is still experimental. Xiaomi says reliability, power consumption, and success rates for complicated tasks are still being improved, and some operations may fail or behave inconsistently.

As a result, the rollout is limited for the time being. Xiaomi is launching miclaw as a closed beta project where participation is by invitation only. The company advises testers not to install the experimental build on their primary phones and recommends backing up data before trying it.

The test currently supports a small set of devices, including the Xiaomi 17, Xiaomi 17 Pro, Xiaomi 17 Pro Max, Xiaomi 17 Ultra, and the Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Edition.

Xiaomi also says that user data from miclaw interactions won’t be used to train its AI models. According to the company, model training relies on publicly available or authorized datasets, while personal interactions are only used to process commands in real time. Sensitive information is handled locally on the device using what Xiaomi describes as “edge-cloud privacy computing.”

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Honor‘s MagicPad 4 has arrived in Europe and the UK following its MWC 2026 preview in Barcelona. The tablet stands out for its extremely slim build, measuring just 4.8mm thick, which the company claims makes it the thinnest tablet currently available.

The Honor MagicPad 4 features a 12.3-inch OLED display with a resolution of 3000 × 1920 pixels. The panel reaches a peak HDR brightness of 2400 nits and supports refresh rates up to 165Hz. Multiple adaptive refresh levels are included to balance smooth visuals and power consumption during scrolling, gaming, and video playback.

Despite the slim design, the tablet weighs around 450 grams. It measures 273.4mm in width and 178.8mm in height, giving it a relatively compact footprint for a device with a large display.

Powering the MagicPad 4 is Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 mobile platform. The tablet is available with up to 16GB of RAM and up to 512GB of internal storage. It runs MagicOS 10 based on Android 16.

The device includes a 10,100mAh battery and supports 66W fast charging. This capacity is intended to support extended productivity and media use throughout the day.

For cameras, the rear features a 13-megapixel main sensor with autofocus. On the front, there is a 9-megapixel camera designed for video calls, conferencing, and online meetings. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 7 with 2×2 MIMO support and Bluetooth 6.0 with support for multiple high-quality audio codecs.

Honor also includes a PC Mode that provides a desktop-style interface with resizable windows. The tablet supports external accessories, including a keyboard and stylus, allowing it to function as a lightweight productivity device.

Pricing & availability

Pricing starts at €599 in the Eurozone or £499.99 in the UK (with coupon) for 12GB RAM and 256GB storage. The 16GB RAM and 512GB storage version costs €799 or £599.99.

Honor’s Pencil 3 stylus and Smart Keyboard are available separately for €50 or £50 each. The trackpad-equipped keyboard shown at MWC 2026 is not currently offered. Pre-orders ship around March 10.

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Compact flagship phones have become a small but steady category in the smartphone market. Not everyone wants a 6.7-inch screen and a device that stretches pockets. That’s why we have phones like the Vivo X300 FE and the Apple iPhone 17 that offer high-end hardware while keeping the overall footprint relatively manageable.

On paper, both devices sit in a similar size class, both use 3nm chipsets, and both bring 120Hz OLED displays. And they are even priced similarly, just below $800. But if you look closely, they take noticeably different approaches to things like cameras, battery life, software, and even basic hardware priorities.

Here’s how these two phones compare.

Size and design

At first glance, the Vivo X300 FE and iPhone 17 look like they belong to the same category. The Vivo measures 150.8 × 71.8 × 8 mm, while the iPhone 17 comes in slightly smaller at 149.6 × 71.5 × 8 mm.

However, the two phones have notable differences in weight. The Vivo X300 FE weighs 191 grams, while the iPhone 17 is lighter at 177 grams. That 14-gram difference can make the iPhone feel a bit easier to hold over long periods.

Both phones use glass on the front and back with aluminum frames. Apple uses its Ceramic Shield 2 protection on the front glass, while Vivo sticks with a standard glass front. 

The iPhone 17 carries IP68 certification for immersion up to 6 meters, while the Vivo X300 FE has both IP68 and IP69, which also covers high-pressure water jets but only guarantees immersion up to 1.5 meters.

Displays are similar, but not identical

The Vivo X300 FE has a 6.31-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a resolution of 1216 × 2640 and a pixel density of around 461 ppi. Meanwhile, the iPhone 17 features a 6.3-inch LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED panel with 1206 × 2622 resolution and about 460 ppi.

Both support 120Hz refresh rates, which is notable since Apple only recently began bringing ProMotion-style refresh rates to its non-Pro lineup. Where they diverge is in brightness and display features.

The Vivo X300 FE claims up to 5000 nits peak brightness, while the iPhone 17 lists 1000 nits typical brightness, 1600 nits high-brightness mode, and up to 3000 nits peak. Apple also supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision, along with an anti-reflective coating.

Performance and chipset

Both phones are powered by new 3nm processors, but they come from different worlds. The Vivo X300 FE uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, featuring Oryon V3 cores and an Adreno 829 GPU. Meanwhile, the iPhone 17 runs on the Apple A19 chip.

Historically, Apple’s A-series chips have focused on strong single-core performance and tight software optimization. Qualcomm’s latest flagship processors usually emphasize multi-core performance and GPU improvements for gaming.

Memory configurations include 12GB of RAM on the X300 FE, while the iPhone 17 features 8GB of RAM. Both are paired with either 256GB or 512GB storage.

Of course, raw specs rarely tell the whole story. Apple’s control over both hardware and software means the iPhone often performs smoothly even with less RAM. Meanwhile, Android flagships typically rely on larger memory pools to manage multitasking.

Software

As always, the biggest talk comes down to the software. The Vivo X300 FE runs Android 16 with Vivo’s OriginOS 6 interface on top. The company promises up to five major Android upgrades, which is a relatively long support window in the Android ecosystem.

The iPhone 17 runs iOS 26, with updates expected for many years beyond its launch. Apple’s software experience tends to emphasize consistency and ecosystem integration. Android phones, including Vivo’s, offer more customization and flexibility.

For users, the choice between the two phones will come down almost entirely to whether they prefer iOS or Android.

Cameras

The Vivo X300 FE wins in terms of optics with its triple-camera system. It has a:

• 50MP main camera
• 50MP periscope telephoto with 3× optical zoom
• 8MP ultrawide camera

The inclusion of a periscope lens means the X300 FE can offer true optical zoom beyond the main camera.

On the other hand, the iPhone 17 has a dual rear-camera setup:

• 48MP main camera
• 48MP ultrawide camera

Apple doesn’t include a dedicated telephoto camera on the base iPhone 17, which means zoom photography will likely rely more on digital cropping.

However, the iPhone supports Dolby Vision HDR recording and multiple frame-rate options up to 4K at 60fps. Vivo supports 4K recording as well, but Apple typically focuses more heavily on video features. 

For selfies, Vivo includes a 50MP front camera, while the iPhone 17 has an 18MP ultrawide camera paired with a 3D depth sensor used for Face ID.

Battery and charging

Vivo wins in hardware in this department, too. It has a 6500mAh battery, significantly larger than the 3692mAh battery inside the iPhone 17. The former charges at 90W wired, 40W wireless speed, and also supports wireless charging. 

Apple’s charging system is slower by comparison. The iPhone 17 supports wired charging capable of reaching 50 percent in around 20 minutes and 25W wireless charging through MagSafe or Qi2.

Connectivity and extra features

Both phones support modern connectivity features such as Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, and a wide range of global navigation systems. The Vivo X300 FE also includes an infrared port. 

On Apple’s behalf, the iPhone 17 includes Ultra Wideband support, satellite communication for emergency services, and deeper integration with Apple services like Find My. 

For biometrics, Vivo uses an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner under the display, while Apple relies on Face ID with its front-facing 3D sensor system.

Two different interpretations of a flagship

The Vivo X300 FE and iPhone 17 are roughly the same size and price, but they are two very different ideas of what a compact flagship can be.

Vivo is heavy on hardware with a larger battery, more RAM, faster charging, and a dedicated telephoto camera. The iPhone focuses more on software integration, camera processing, and ecosystem features. 

Neither approach is necessarily better. It mostly depends on what someone values more in a phone. 

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The OriginOS 6 update is rolling out to the last phase of eligible devices. Part of this phase, the iQOO Z9 and iQOO Z9x have recently started receiving the Android 16 update, which brings a host of new features and upgrades across the system.

The Android 16-based update for the iQOO Z9 is tagged with the firmware version PD2346F_EX_A_16.2.10.4.W30, while the iQOO Z9x is getting it as PD2353F_EX_A_16.2.11.0.W30, as spotted by Ytechb. The initial rollout may be limited to select regions. So, if you don’t see the update on your device, check again in a few days once the rollout expands. You can manually check for updates via the System updates section in the Settings app.

If the update doesn’t appear on your iQOO smartphone, you can get it sooner by requesting it through the trial program. For this, navigate to Settings > About Phone > System updates > version Trial > Trial version > download and install.

The OriginOS 6 update is a hefty one, weighing in at around 4GB. Therefore, you must ensure that your device has sufficient storage and that it’s charged to at least 40% for a smooth upgrade to OriginOS 6. You can also back up important data for added safety.

Once you have the software installed on your phone, there’s a lot to explore, including an all-new Origin Island that offers real-time updates and improved multitasking. The Control Center now features an enhanced notification center, improved lighting effects, and new system fonts. The lock screen features new clock styles, new widgets, and better layout controls. OriginOS 6 also introduces improvements to privacy, security, and battery efficiency. You can read the complete changelog on this page.

Be sure to regularly visit the iQOO section on Gizmochina to get the latest updates. Or, if you prefer your news instant and on-the-go, hop into our Telegram channel for rapid-fire software updates and all the biggest tech headlines.

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TCL has announced the 27P2A Ultra gaming monitor, a new display built for competitive gaming. The monitor was revealed alongside the 27C3A Pro QD-Mini LED gaming monitor, but the 27P2A Ultra stands out because of its extremely high 1040Hz refresh rate.

If the claim holds, the 27P2A Ultra will become the first Mini LED gaming monitor to go past the 1000 Hz refresh rate mark. Such a high refresh rate is mainly aimed at esports players who want the fastest possible motion response and the lowest input delay.

However, the monitor cannot reach its maximum refresh rate at its full resolution. TCL confirmed that the display supports 550Hz at its native 2K resolution. The company did not reveal what resolution is required to achieve the full 1040Hz refresh rate. That said, it is expected to be 720p, as any lower resolution will make it a hard sell. To achieve this high refresh rate, the brand has claimed to use the TCL CSOT “HFS Shoot” high-speed panel.

This is not the first time a 1040Hz display has been shown. Back in December, Samsung introduced its Samsung Odyssey G6 (G60H) monitor. It features a 27-inch QHD panel with a 600Hz refresh rate. However, Samsung’s monitor uses an IPS panel instead of a Mini LED panel.

For now, pricing and availability details for both the Samsung model and the 1040Hz monitor from TCL have not been announced.

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(Source)

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Yesterday, Vivo Product Manager Han Boxiao shared a Weibo post confirming that the upcoming Vivo X300 Ultra will be the world’s first smartphone to feature a 200-megapixel Sony LYT-901 sensor as its primary camera. Today, he released another post revealing more details about the device’s periscope telephoto camera, highlighting several upgrades aimed at improving zoom photography and video stability.

Vivo X300 Ultra periscope telephoto camera details

Boxiao’s latest Weibo post reveals that the Vivo X300 Ultra will feature a fifth-generation ZEISS 200-megapixel “Thanos” periscope telephoto camera based on a Samsung HP0 sensor. The camera is paired with Vivo’s BlueImage imaging technology, which brings optimisations in areas such as colour accuracy, autofocus performance, HDR processing and power efficiency.

The X300 Ultra is said to introduce a large-sensor telephoto lens with 3° optical image stabilization, marking the return of Vivo’s earlier gimbal-style stabilization concept. Traditional telephoto lenses usually offer stabilization in the range of 0.7° to 1°, while the X200 Ultra reached 1.2°. The new system reportedly increases stabilization performance by two to three times, delivering what Vivo describes as gimbal-level steadiness.

According to Boxiao, the telephoto camera achieves CIPA 7.0-level professional stabilization, a standard typically associated with dedicated cameras. This allows longer and steadier exposure times, improving light intake and making high-zoom photography easier even for casual users. The stabilization is particularly useful when shooting at long focal lengths such as 200mm, 400mm, or beyond, especially in handheld video scenarios.

By this, the Vivo X300 Ultra will debut as the world’s first flagship phone equipped with dual 200-megapixel cameras. Recent reports have revealed that the rear camera setup is also expected to include a Sony LYT-828 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens and a 5-megapixel multispectral sensor for color accuracy.

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Post-fire inspection of a BYD Seal reveals the structural integrity of the CTB chassis and LFP battery pack.

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Mercedes' George Russell is heading into Formula 1's first qualifying session of the year with the fastest time as he topped a derailed FP3 session at the Australian Grand Prix.

Russell and Mercedes finally showed their hand with a brutal last-minute flyer to head Ferrari duo Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc.

The start of the session was delayed by 20 minutes due to barrier repairs prompted by a crash in F3 and it would be interrupted again with two red flags, one for an early stoppage by Williams' Carlos Sainz, and late red flag for a smash by Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli in Turn 2.

Hamilton had been leading the early running in Albert Park when Sainz ground to a halt at pit entry on his out-lap on what was another troublesome session for the Grove team, with Albon plagued by hydraulic issues on Friday.

The session was resumed with 38 minutes on the clock, with Mercedes sophomore Antonelli dipping under Hamilton's early benchmark, only to be bested by Ferrari's Leclerc and his 1m20.271s lap as all frontrunners opted for Pirelli's softest rubber. Piastri then went quickest with a 1m20.164s, before Leclerc retaliated once more with a 1m19.827s to go top.

The session was interrupted once more in the final quarter for a vicious crash by Antonelli, who appeared to bottom out on the inside of Turn 2 and veered hard into the outside wall. Antonelli escaped unhurt, but Mercedes is up against it to build up a new car for the young Italian ahead of qualifying.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes

The session went green again for the final four minutes, which led to a long queue at pit exit for one final flyer. It was only then that Russell showed his real hand, setting a last-minute lap of 1m19.053s which was six tenths faster than Hamilton and seven tenths up on Leclerc's previous benchmark.

McLaren's Oscar Piastri was fourth ahead of impressive Red Bull man Isack Hadjar, with four different teams in the top five. Max Verstappen was sixth behind his team-mate, as the Red Bull conceded a full second to Russell.

The unfortunate Antonelli was seventh-fastest ahead of world champion Lando Norris in the McLaren. Audi's Gabriel Bortoleto and Haas driver Oliver Bearman completed the top 10.

There were some faint glimmers of improvement at Aston Martin, where Fernando Alonso was able to complete 20 laps in the Honda powered AMR26, setting a lap that had been vastly quicker than what the team had managed thus far.

Alonso's 1m22s lap was 3.6 seconds off the frontrunners, which could be a crucial benchmark time for the Spaniard to qualify for the race if he encounters any trouble in Saturday's actual qualifying session. But Alonso's team-mate Lance Stroll failed to make it out at all after Aston detected an issue with the internal combustion engine while building up his car.

With Sainz joining Stroll at the bottom after failing to set a lap, Cadillac duo Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez brought up the rear of the field in 19th and 20th respectively.

Qualifying for F1's 2026 curtain-raiser follows at 4pm local Melbourne time.

FIA to revert Australian GP straight mode change after F1 team pushback

F1 Australian GP - FP3 results

To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Baltimore Ravens have acquired All-Pro defensive end Maxx Crosby in a blockbuster deal with the Las Vegas Raiders. The Ravens are sending a 2026 first-round draft pick and a 2027 first-rounder.

We heard earlier today that the Chicago Bears would not be involved in serious trade talks for Crosby if Las Vegas held firm on their desire to get two firsts back. With the Ravens 2026 first-rounder being 14th overall, that was way more enticing than Chicago’s number 25 anyway, so even if the Bears had offered two ones, they would have had to sweeten the pot even more.

I’m completely good with the Bears keeping the draft picks, but it would have been fun having Crosby in the Windy City.

Since entering the league in 2019, he has been one of the premier edge players in the entire league. This includes registering 69.5 sacks, 133 tackles for loss, and a whopping 164 registered QB hits. The 5-time Pro Bowler and 3-time All-Pro defender adds serious firepower to a Ravens team looking to bounce back from last year’s (8-9) record.

The Athletic’s Dianna Russini reported that the Ravens and the Dallas Cowboys were in talks with the Raiders for days. She also reported that the Jacksonville Jaguars were trying to put a package together for Crosby.

So perhaps the Bears were never in serious contention afterall.

Despite leading the league in takeaways, Chicago’s defense finished in the bottom half of the league in most pass-rush-related statistical categories, so they’ll keep to land some d-line help at some point.

Are you good with the Bears losing out on Crosby?

Where do you think they turn for pass rush help now?

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Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter contributed to this article.

Expectations were high for Cam Schlittler’s first spring start, and he did not disappoint. Over 2.1 innings and 39 pitches, he struck out four Rays and looked really good while doing it. Meanwhile, Trent Grisham came up clutch on offense, driving in two runs on a single in the second inning. The rest of the game was relatively uneventful, with both teams’ pitching carving up batters left and right. When all was said and done, the Yankees came away with the win, a quick 2-0 affair.

How about Schlittler, though?! I try not to get too excited about spring starts, but the big righty’s outing was certainly encouraging. He started his night by striking out Taylor Walls on three pitches, with an assist from the new ABS system:

I have no idea why the ump called it a ball in the first place, but I guess they’re still a bit rusty.

To their credit, the Rays did not go quietly after that, as Theo Gillen worked a walk, and Ryan Vilade singled to put runners at first and second. However, Schlittler was unfazed, freezing Jacob Melton on a perfectly located 99 mph heater to get him looking for the second out. The BABIP gods then tested Schlittler’s resolve by turning a Ben Williamson squibbler into an infield single to load the bases, but Schlittler got Hunter Feduccia to ground out to short, escaping the inning unscathed.

The Yankees would generate some traffic of their own in the bottom of the first. After a Grisham strikeout, Ben Rice worked a walk, then advanced to third on a Cody Bellinger single. However, Giancarlo Stanton went down looking, and even though Bellinger stole second, Ryan McMahon could not bring him or Rice home, lining out to left for the third out.

Schlittler picked up right where he left off in the top of the second, inducing groundballs from Logan Davidson and Xavier Isaac before striking out Raynel Delgado for a clean 1-2-3 inning. The offense put men on base again in the bottom half, and this time, they did not disappoint. Although Paul DeJong lined out to short to lead off the inning, Oswaldo Cabrera started his comeback the right way by working a walk, and Max Schuemann doubled to put runners at second and third. Payton Henry struck out looking, but Grisham came through, slashing a base hit to right field to drive in two.

Rice continued the rally by doubling to center field, with Grisham advancing to third, but Bellinger lined out to right to end the threat. Still, the damage was done.

Schlittler finished his night by striking out Taylor Walls for the second time, this time getting him to swing through a high cutter. His final line – 2.1 innings, four strikeouts, zero runs, two hits, and a walk. He certainly brought the heat, hitting 99 mph several times, but his secondaries were sharp too, with his cutter and curveball looking quite good. He was also able to avoid the heart of the zone, generally commanding his pitches well. There were nothing but positives from his start, and I eagerly await his next one.

Not a whole lot happened for the rest of the game, as both the Yankees’ and Rays’ pitchers put up a bunch of zeros. On the Rays’ side, Joe Boyle impressed despite the Grisham hit, striking out six in his 3.0 innings and showcasing some premium stuff. Ian Seymour relieved Boyle in the fourth inning and was even better, pitching 3.1 innings, striking out six, and not allowing a single baserunner. Alex Cook came on with one out in the eighth and closed out the inning without issue. Joe Rock had the worst day of the bunch, as his wild pitch in the ninth inning allowed Kenedy Corona to score from third (after having stolen second and third!), and walked an additional two batters in the frame before striking out George Lombard Jr. to escape the inning. Still, it was an impressive showing from the Rays’ pitching corps.

All of this would have been mildly irritating if not for the fact that the Yankees’ pitchers had themselves a day, too. Tim Hill, Brent Headrick, Zach Messinger, and Danny Watson combined for 6.2 innings, 14 strikeouts, and just two baserunners. Granted, they were facing a quite toothless Rays lineup which lacked Yandy Díaz, Junior Caminero, and Jonathan Aranda, but it was a great showing nonetheless. Aside from Hill, these pitchers project to be on the Scranton shuttle rather than regular bullpen contributors, but having depth arms that won’t embarrass you is important over the course of the 162-game season.

As a small Aaron Judge/Team USA update: he clobbered a two-run homer off of Brazil’s Bo Takahashi. Great to see our Captain showing out on the international stage — even if former Yankees pitcher José Contreras’ 17-year-old son surprisingly got him to hit into a double play in his second at-bat!

The Yankees’ next game will be against the Nationals, at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches on 6:05pm ET tomorrow evening. Will Warren is slated to start against Josiah Gray.

Box Score

Great players will force a franchise to alter their organizational structure, and Maxx Crosby's elite pass rusher has the Ravens doing something they've never done in their history. On Friday night, Las Vegas agreed to trade Crosby to the Ravens in exchange for Baltimore's No. 14 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, and a 2027 first-round pick, NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported. The Ravens' sustained success is often credited to their "best player available" draft strategy. This approach, established by Ozzie Newsome, involves grading and ranking about 150 prospects each year and building through the draft.

The move was so off-brand that Baltimore parted ways with a first-round pick in trade for the first time in franchise history.

For the first time in the Ravens' 31-year history, the franchise will use a first-round pick to trade for a player.

Baltimore acquires Maxx Crosby after a season in which it recorded its fewest sacks in 15 years. https://t.co/MuwteM77aS

— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) March 7, 2026

Crosby, a 2019 fourth-round pick by the Raiders, has developed into one of the best pass rushers in the league. In Crosby's seven seasons with the Silver & Black, the five-time Pro Bowler has recorded 69.5 sacks, 133 tackles for loss, 164 QB hits, and one interception in 110 career games.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens shock NFL with aggressive Maxx Crosby trade

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The Las Vegas Raiders-Maxx Crosby saga has finally come to an end in what is quite literally a worst-case trade scenario for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

On Friday, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the Baltimore Ravens traded a 2026 first-round and a 2027 first-round pick to the Raiders in exchange for Crosby, leaving the Steelers to play against the talented edge rusher twice a year.

ESPN sources: the Raiders agreed to trade five-time Pro-Bowl DE Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for 2026 and 2027 first-round picks.

The trade cannot be processed until next week, but it is in place. And Crosby is expected to be a Raven with two 1s back to Vegas. pic.twitter.com/rfExCLpXfF

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 7, 2026

Crosby, as loyal a Raider as they come, reportedly left the team facility last season in anger over being shut down for the season with a knee ailment, frustration that kicked off the trade rumors.

As the AFC North gets more fierce, one can't help but wonder if the Steelers should follow in the same footsteps as the Raiders this offseason, as T.J. Watt didn't exactly live up to his $41 million average annual salary in 2025, while Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig emerged as capable starting options.

For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any offseason moves, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.

This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers' worst-case scenario imagined as Ravens trade for Maxx Crosby

White House college sports roundtable just berthed an elite Nick Saban meme originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The memes sometimes make themselves, and the most respected man in college football just made a meme that's already doing numbers on socials. Nick Saban joined many elite college sports members at the White House on Friday to discuss the future of college sports. 

This is really happening .. pic.twitter.com/SLPtzNvYF1

— Heather Dinich (@CFBHeather) March 6, 2026

The White House hosted a powerhouse roundtable on Friday, bringing together a mix of industry stakeholders and notable figures. Trump is serving as chair of the roundtable, with vice chairs Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and New York Yankees president Randy Levine. 

Among those who attended 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.

More college football news: 

• Deion Sanders buyout, contract details as Colorado Buffaloes coach
• Steve Sarkisian blasts Ohio State players for not going to class
• ESPN's Pat McAfee calls BS on Caleb Downs rumor from NFL Combine
• NCAA targets exposed calves in latest proposed college football rule change
• High school football recruits using AI-generated highlight tapes is on the rise

Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli crashed during the third practice session ahead of the Australian Grand Prix.

With just over 10 minutes remaining in the final practice session at Albert Park, the Italian driver crashed into the barrier at high speed after switching onto soft tyres.

Thankfully, he was able to exit the car unassisted and walked away from the wreck, but the Mercedes team now faces the challenge of repairing the car for use in qualifying later today. 

Replays showed that Antonelli clipped the kerb at Turn 2 before losing control of the rear of the W17.

Former Formula 1 driver and co-commentator for Sky Sports Martin Brundle argued that the Brackley outfit will not be able to get the car ready for qualifying, which is scheduled for 4pm local time (5am GMT). "He'll not be in qualifying," Brundle said.

While speaking to the media in Melbourne, Antonelli addressed the high expectations for Mercedes in 2026.

Kimi Antonelli into the barrier! 😱

Here's the sizeable crash which ended the Mercedes driver's FP3 👇#F1#AusGPpic.twitter.com/ZC1PrM1JE0

— Formula 1 (@F1) March 7, 2026

"Well, I really hope I will be in that position and definitely I'm going to try to make it happen," he said. "But obviously it's a new year, new regulations again, another new year, new car and junior series has been really helpful on that because obviously every year I've been jumping in a new car and it helps a bit with adaptation.

"But I think I see this year as a big opportunity for myself, for the team because it also looks like we're in a good place of course, we don't know exactly where the others are but we are quite confident about our potential.

"We just need to see if it's going to be good enough but on my side, yeah, I'm really looking forward to the weekend and hopefully we can kick off the season in the best way possible."

Photos from Australian GP - Saturday

George Russell, Mercedes

Joe Portlock / Getty Images

Oliver Bearman, Haas F1 Team

Alastair Staley / LAT Images via Getty Images

Alexander Albon, Williams, Carlos Sainz, Williams

Alastair Staley / LAT Images via Getty Images

Alexandra Leclerc, wife of Charles Leclerc of Monaco and Ferrari, walks in the paddock with model and girlfriend of Carlos Sainz of Spain and Williams, Rebecca Donldsonduring

Kym Illman / Getty Images

Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin Racing

Anni Graf - Formula 1 via Getty Images

Carlos Sainz, Williams

Sam Bloxham / LAT Images via Getty Images

Oscar Piastri, McLaren

Steven Tee / LAT Images via Getty Images

British former racing driver Jackie Stewart walks through the paddock

Martin Keep / AFP via Getty Images

Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes

Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images

Gabriel Bortoleto, Audi F1 Team

Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images

Cadillac F1 Team CEO Dan Towriss walks through the paddock with his wife Cassidy Towriss

Martin Keep / AFP via Getty Images

Arvid Lindblad, Racing Bulls

Anni Graf - Formula 1 via Getty Images

Alexander Albon, Williams, Carlos Sainz, Williams

Anni Graf - Formula 1 via Getty Images

Ayao Komatsu, Haas F1 Team, Jack Doohan, Haas F1 Team

Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images

Lance Stroll, Aston Martin Racing

Alastair Staley / LAT Images via Getty Images

Mario Andretti

Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images

Flavio Briatore, Alpine, Ayao Komatsu, Haas F1 Team

Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images

Gabriel Bortoleto, Audi F1 Team

Andy Hone/ LAT Images via Getty Images

Oliver Bearman, Haas F1 Team

Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images

Oliver Bearman, Haas F1 Team

Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images

Oscar Piastri, McLaren

Andy Hone/ LAT Images via Getty Images

Oscar Piastri, McLaren

Andy Hone/ LAT Images via Getty Images

Esteban Ocon, Haas F1 Team

Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images

Esteban Ocon, Haas F1 Team

Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images

Lando Norris, McLaren

Steven Tee / LAT Images via Getty Images

Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team

Andy Hone/ LAT Images via Getty Images

James Vowles, Williams

Sam Bagnall / Sutton Images via Getty Images

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

William West - AFP - Getty Images

George Russell, Mercedes

William West - AFP - Getty Images

Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team

Andy Hone/ LAT Images via Getty Images

Pierre Gasly, Alpine

Paul Crock / AFP via Getty Images

Pierre Gasly, Alpine

Paul Crock / AFP via Getty Images

Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team

Paul Crock / AFP via Getty Images

Pierre Gasly, Alpine

Alastair Staley / LAT Images via Getty Images

Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari

Paul Crock / AFP via Getty Images

Pierre Gasly, Alpine

Joe Portlock / Getty Images

Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes crash

Paul Crock / AFP via Getty Images

Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes

Alastair Staley / LAT Images via Getty Images

To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.

In a few hours, the lap times will count for real.

Until this point, the Formula 1 season has been marked by lap times that are to be taken with a grain of salt. Between pre-season testing times, and a few hours of practice, everything we have seen from the 11 teams carries an air of uncertainity.

But Saturday brings the first qualifying hour of the new year, at the Australian Grand Prix.

And nobody knows quite what to expect.

Ferrari opened on the front foot in the first hour of practice, with Charles Leclerc leading Lewis Hamilton in a one-two result for the Scuderia. McLaren responded in the second hour of practice as hometown hero Oscar Piastri edged out the Mercedes duo of Kimi Antonelli and George Russell.

But there was Ferrari lurking, as Leclerc was fourth in FP2, followed by Hamilton in fifth.

The third and final hour of practice, however, might have given us our clearest look at the pecking order at the very end of the session. That’s when Russell laid down a blistering lap of 1:19.053, which put him more than a half-second clear of both Hamilton and Leclerc at the top of the timing sheet.

“That is rocketship territory,” said Alex Jacques on the F1 broadcast.

Entering the year, Mercedes and Russell were pegged as the favorites, and right at the end of practice, we saw our clearest evidence why.

Perhaps the most notable aspect of the first two hours of practice? Unreliability from several teams. Problems persisted at Aston Martin on Friday, as Fernando Alonso missed FP1 while teammate Lance Stroll managed to complete just three laps during the first hour of practice. Both drivers took to the track for the second hour of practice, but the duo was well off the pace.

They were not alone, as Arvid Lindblad at Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, Sergio Pérez at Cadillac, and the Williams pair of Alexander Albon and Carlos Sainz Jr. at Williams all dealt with issues during the day Friday. Even the defending champions had their share of problems, as the McLaren duo of Piastri and Drivers’ Champion Lando Norris dealt with a loss of power, and a gearbox issue, respectively.

As to what to expect during qualifying, that is anyone’s guess. We do know the format has changed slightly, given the presence of a new team in Cadillac and two additional drivers in Pérez and Valtteri Bottas. Six drivers will be eliminated at the end of Q1, and six more will be eliminated at the end of Q2, leading to a ten-driver shootout for pole position in Q3.

In addition, Q3 has been extended by one minute, and the break between Q2 and Q3 has been shortened by one minute.

We’ll be following it all starting at midnight on Friday night/Saturday morning, so check back early and often!

Australian Grand Prix Qualifying Results

Here is the provisional starting grid for the Australian Grand Prix, which will be filled in as qualifying unfolds:

Here is how the qualifying hour unfolded.

What happened in Q1 at the Australian GP?

We’re about halfway through spring training, which means position battles are heating up. Earlier this week, we asked who you thought had the best chance to break camp with the Rockies, and you answered!

The vast majority of you believe that newly-acquired first baseman TJ Rumfield has the best chance of doing just that.

Rumfield was acquired on January 28th in a trade that sent RHP Angel Chivilli to the New York Yankees. He has contributed well this spring, slashing .350/.500/.950 with four homers in 10 games. He has also walked four times and walked just once.

Behind him, 19% of you believe that Charlie Condon (No. 1 PuRP) could break camp. The rest of the candidates each earned less-than 10% of the vote.

Do you agree that TJ Rumfield has the best chance? What have you liked from him so far this spring? Let us know!

Brought to you by FanDuel Sportsbook, the official sportsbook partner of SB Nation.

Raiders Reportedly Trading Rumored Patriots Target Maxx Crosby originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Las Vegas Raiders are reportedly trading Maxx Crosby, but not to the New England Patriots.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Raiders are sending Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens. They'll receive the No. 14 pick in this year's draft and Baltimore's 2027 first-round selection.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport said Raiders general manager John Spytek called Crosby to inform him of the deal, which will be finalized after the league's new calendar year starts next Wednesday.

Crosby has made the Pro Bowl in each of the last five seasons. He tallied 10 sacks in 15 games before the Raiders shut him down with a knee injury in the final two weeks before securing the No. 1 draft pick.

Rumors swirled about Crosby wanting to play elsewhere after seven seasons with the Raiders. The former fourth-round pick reportedly once said he'd like to play for Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel.

New England was reportedly one of several teams monitoring the Crosby situation. NFL Network's Tom Pelissero said earlier on Friday that the Raiders had received "multiple strong offers" for Crosby when speculating that Las Vegas could trade him before teams can begin contacting free agents on Monday. 

Crosby will reportedly move to a Ravens squad that ranked 24th in total defense last season, just the third time they finished lower than 12th since 2003. Only two teams (Jets and 49ers) recorded fewer sacks than Baltimore's 30, a major dip from their league-leading 60 in 2023 and 54 in 2024.

Travis Jones led the Ravens with just five sacks last season, but the AFC North squad landed one of the game's fiercest pass catchers. Crosby will look to steer Baltimore back into the playoffs after losing a Week 18 matchup to the Pittsburgh Steelers for the division title.

More NFL: Patriots Trade Starting Center To Bears

Kimi Antonelli escaped unharmed after experiencing a nasty crash in practice at the Australian Grand Prix.

The 19-year-old lost control of his Mercedes car at turn one, driving over the car and spinning violently into the wall before being launched back onto the circuit.

Antonelli stated he was “OK” but the medical car was deployed, given the shunt was bigger than 25G.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff winced in the garage as he witnessed the crash unfold.

The Italian teenager returned to the garage, immediately analysing the data of the crash with race engineer Peter Bonnington.

With just over two hours until qualifying, it remains to be seen whether the car will fixed in time for the first battle for pole position of the season.

Antonelli is one of the favourites for the title this season, with Mercedes seen to be the frontrunners as F1 enters a new era of engine and chassis regulations. His teammate George Russell is the bookies favourite.

Russell set the fastest time in FP3, 0.616 seconds ahead of Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton in second with Charles Leclerc in third.

More to follow…

The Baltimore Ravens and Las Vegas Raiders are finalizing a blockbuster trade involving EDGE rusher Maxx Crosby. The Ravens are sending the 14th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and a 2027 first-round pick to the Raiders for Crosby, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. It is a shocking move that gives Baltimore an alpha on the defensive line capable of sacking the quarterback at a high level.

Below, we dive into the winners and losers from the Crosby trade between the Raiders and Ravens!

Winner: Baltimore Ravens, Maxx Crosby

The Ravens are undoubtedly the biggest winners of the Crosby trade with the Raiders. The 28-year-old pass rusher registered 10 sacks and one interception during the 2025-26 NFL season, despite missing two games. The Ravens were in desperate need of a pass rusher after trading Odafe Oweh to the Los Angeles Chargers at the trade deadline. Crosby is now the heart of a Super Bowl-contending team’s defense.

Loser: Las Vegas Raiders’ Defense

The Raiders’ defense is the biggest loser, as losing Crosby will be detrimental to the team. Crosby was the heart and soul of the Las Vegas defense, and it will be hard to replicate his success on the football field. The Raiders have two first-round picks to help find a replacement, but it will be difficult to bounce back from this trade next season.

Winner: Ravens Head Coach Jesse Minter

Ravens head coach Jesse Minter will call defensive plays for the team, and he has to be feeling great right now. Baltimore trading for Crosby will give the team an EDGE rusher who can sack the quarterback 10 or more times moving forward. It allows Minter to be more creative in his defensive schemes and playcalling, raising the potential of the Ravens’ defense.

Loser: Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys battled Baltimore for Crosby but came up short. Dallas made a big push for the former Raider, but the trade fell apart because it presumably wasn’t willing to give up two first-round picks. While the Cowboys didn’t feel comfortable going much further, defensive players like Crosby aren’t available often.

Winner: Raiders’ Front Office

Losing Crosby will hurt the Raiders’ defense and team as a whole; however, this is a massive return. The 14th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft gives Las Vegas an opportunity to either select an elite EDGE prospect or fill another need. The first-round pick in 2027 will also give the Raiders more ammo to surround their likely next quarterback, Fernando Mendoza. Two first-round picks are a great return, and the Las Vegas front office did well.

Related Headlines

• New England Patriots Must Make A.J. Brown Trade a Top Priority
• LA Rams Rumor Reveals Internal Talks About Surprise Trade for Star Receiver
• New Rumor Suggests Vikings Close To Signing JJ McCarthy’s 2026 Competition

DETROIT (AP) — Matthew Tkachuk had his sixth career hat trick and the Florida Panthers beat the Detroit Red Wings 3-1 on Friday night to snap a four-game losing streak.

Eight points behind Boston for the final wild-card spot in the East, two-time defending champion Florida is in danger of becoming the first Cup-winning team to miss the playoffs the following season since Los Angeles in 2014-15.

Tkachuk had his first hat trick since Jan. 9, 2024, against St. Louis. He has eight goals in 16 games this season. He made his season debut Jan. 19 after recovering from offseason surgery to repair a torn adductor muscle and sports hernia.

Sergei Bobrovsky made 27 saves after the Panthers chose not to deal the 37-year-old goalie before the deadline Friday.

Alex DeBrincat scored his team-high 33rd goal for Detroit. John Gibson made 20 saves.

Detroit captain Dylan Larkin suffered an apparent leg injury when he fell awkwardly in the Florida zone midway through the third period. He skated slowly back to the boards and went immediately into the locker room.

Tkachuk scored 35 seconds into the third period on a power play to give the Panthers a 2-1 lead. Parked near the left goalpost, he redirected Sam Reinhart's shot from the left circle past Gibson.

Tkachuk added an empty-netter from his own zone with 1:52 left.

Up next

Panthers: Host Detroit on Tuesday night.

Red Wings: At New Jersey on Sunday.

___

AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl

It's done. Maxx Crosby is no long a member of the Raiders. After weeks of speculation about his future in Las Vegas, the Pro Bowl edge rusher will be traded to the Baltimore Ravens for two first round picks. And now they must first look to free agency to try and replace him.

Even if the Raiders had held onto the disgruntled veteran, they would have needed help on the edge. With him gone, they doubly need help.

Expecting someone to come in and replace what Crosby provided is a tall order. In fact, it's entirely unrealistic. But that's what the Raiders must attempt to do. The first avenue they will take is free agency. And there are a few pass rushers out there who could help bolster what the Raiders new staff wants to do defensively.

1. Odafe Oweh (27)

The former first round pick coming off his rookie contract. He is coming off his two best seasons as a pro, putting up 10 sacks in 2024 and 7.5 sacks last season after a trade to the Chargers and added three more sacks in the Chargers' playoff loss to the Patriots. He has 35.5 sacks in five seasons including the playoffs.

2. Jaelan Phillips (27)

One of the top overall free agents on the market at any position. The former 18 overall pick has 28 career sacks. He returned last season after back-to-back seasons shortened by injuries and had eight games in which he had a sack and/or multiple QB hits while splitting the season between the Dolphins and Eagles. One of those games came against the Raiders in a 31-0 trouncing in Week 15.

3. K’Lavon Chaisson (27)

Two seasons ago, the Raiders signed Chaisson off the street and the former top pick had a resurgence in Las Vegas. Then the Raiders new regime unwisely let him leave in free agency. All he did since then was become a key piece of the Patriots defense as they streaked to the Super Bowl. Chaisson put up career numbers along the way including 10.5 sacks (3.0 in the playoffs), 28 QB hits (10 in the playoffs), and 14 tackles for loss (four in the playoffs). He showed he is finally living up to his former draft status.

4. Boye Mafe (27)

Klint Kubiak was just celebrating winning a Super Bowl with Mafe. Though the former second round pick had a down year statistically, that may just serve to potentially lower his pricetag. In the past three seasons, he has 17 sacks, 32 QB hits, and 146 pressures.

5. Khalil Mack (35)

That's right. Return of the Mack. How cool would it be for the Raiders former fifth overall pick to return to finish his career in Silver & Black? The nine-time Pro Bowler had some of the best seasons of his career in Oakland, including two of his three All Pro seasons and his 2016 AP Defensive Player of the Year. He had his revenge on Jon Gruden -- the dope who traded him instead of paying him what he was worth -- now to have the chance to bring his career full circle just sounds too good to pass up.

This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: 5 EDGE Raiders could sign in free agency to replace Maxx Crosby

The nightmare start to Aston Martin Formula 1 team's season continues to unfold in Australia after Adrian Newey revealed that Honda has run out of working batteries – leaving the team in a precarious position.

As previously noted, a severe vibration issue with the ICE and MGU-K has been transmitted to the battery and caused casings to fail, limiting the team’s mileage in testing.

F1 batteries are hugely complex and bespoke items packaged for a specific car. Typically a team uses only two per season in each car, which is what the rules allow without a penalty for an extra change. In other words, they are supposed to last for at least 12 complete race weekends.

Having lost several in testing, Aston arrived in Australia with four left – only to find that two were not usable after all. Thus, the only ones remaining are those in the cars of Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll – and any issue means that the car is out for the rest of the weekend.

"I think realistically it’s just trying to manage the problem,” said Newey when asked about the team’s prospects for the weekend. “We are short on batteries. We’ve only got two batteries left, the two that are in the car, so 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."

Expanding on the issue, he said, “We came here with four batteries. We’ve had conditioning problems or communication problems with two of those batteries, which means we’ve, as we sit here today, only got two operational batteries. That, give 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."

Asked if any could be flown in from Japan, he said: "Unfortunately, not. There aren’t any." It’s not clear when Honda will have further supplies or if they can be readied for the upcoming Chinese GP.

On Friday, Alonso and Stroll did only limited running, with the former missing the whole of the first session due to power unit issues. With limited testing, the team still has much to learn about its new car.

"Our information on the car itself is very limited because we’ve done so little running, and particularly running at low fuel. Fuel acts as a damper to the battery. Honda have limited us very much to how much low fuel running we can do. It just becomes a self-feeding problem."

Asked by Road & Track for his thoughts on the battery situation, Alonso said: "I just drive the car. It's a question for Honda. Disappointed to not have a stock, supplying one team. But yes, this is the situation, so it's more a question for them."

It is clear, however, that the Spaniard is more than a little frustrated by his lack of mileage.

"A little bit limited our number of laps today,” he said. “And that was not needed again, because we need to recover a little bit in terms of understanding the car as well, and the window of where this car operates. Obviously, we brought a completely new package into this race, and we need to understand where to run that package interms of setup. And we didn't manage too many laps today."

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Any hopes that the Detroit Lions might land Raiders superstar Maxx Crosby can officially be put to rest. In a Friday-night blockbuster, the Baltimore Ravens have agreed to send a pair of first-round NFL draft picks in 2026 and in 2027 to the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for Crosby.

It always seemed like a long shot that Detroit would complete a deal for Crosby, but the Lions were often linked by national pundits as a natural trade contender for Crosby. That's because of Detroit's need for a star pass rusher to complement All-Pro defensive end Aidan Hutchinson.

But, it's the Ravens that were willing to cough up a pair of first-rounders and that was sweet enough for the Raiders and for Las Vegas general manager John Spytek.

Blockbuster: The Raiders are trading five-time Pro Bowl edge Maxx Crosby to the Ravens, sources tell me and @RapSheet. pic.twitter.com/dnn15bReVc

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 7, 2026

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

This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Lions' Maxx Crosby hopes end with Ravens-Raiders blockbuster trade

Conor McGregor may be setting up his return fight.

This weekend, Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira face off for the BMF title in the main event of UFC 326 in Las Vegas. It’s a rematch over a decade in the making, featuring two of the most accomplished fighters on the UFC’s roster, and as such, anticipation is high.

Ahead of the event, the UFC reached out to a few of its fighters to give predictions on the Holloway vs. Oliveira matchup, and while most fighters kept it simple, “Notorious” gave a detailed answer where he argued that this was not a real BMF title fight and suggested he may face the winner next.

“Hello UFC!

“It is a great matchup, Holloway vs. Oliveira! I am very much looking forward to it!

“It is always exciting for me to see fighters rematch. It takes great courage and honour to do so and I always respect it.

“Their last time out it seemed Holloway broke Charles early in the fight and it was then stopped. It was hard to tell whether it was a genuine injury or a caused one. I see a real good fight but with a similar outcome [to be honest]. I think Max is light on his feet and can pop Charles and begin to break him again. It is a different Charles however, so we will see.

“I don’t feel the BMF title is accurate here also with both men suffering in the sauna to make the limit. There is zero BMF about this. For me vs. either opponent next I feel supremely confident. I stop both men in their tracks. I am a bad man with a good heart, so I may add the BMF belt to my collection.

“Good luck with the event!”

McGregor has not fought since shattering his leg against Dustin Poirier in 2021. The former two-division champion was supposed to return to action last summer at UFC 303, but withdrew due to injury before the event. McGregor then targeted a return at the upcoming UFC White House card, but rumor suggests he’s more likely to come back this summer.

Whenever he returns, McGregor will need a dance partner, and UFC CEO Dana White recently suggested that previously planned opponent Michael Chandler is no longer in the mix for that fight. Perhaps the BMF champion will be.

The Brooklyn Nets are hoping to finish the 2025-26 NBA season on a strong note, but they are having a tough time winning games as evidenced by their current 10-game losing streak. Brooklyn has been dealing with some injuries along the way as they face some of the better teams in the league, but their upcoming injury report is relatively clean for another tough matchup.

The Nets announced on Friday that rookie guards Egor Demin and Drake Powell are out for Saturday's matchup at the Detroit Pistons due to their respective reasons. For Demin, he continues to deal with a left plantar fascia injury that the team is trying to manage while Powell remains on his assignment with the Long Island Nets, Brooklyn's G League affiliate.

"He's struggled with plantar fasciitis, and the soreness has increased lately. So we're being cautious and trying to figure out what's the best way for him moving forward," Nets head coach Jordi Fernandez said of Demin prior to Thursday's 126-110 loss at the Miami Heat, per Brian Lewis of the New York Post. Demin, 20, has missed Brooklyn's past three games due to the left plantar fascia injury and it seems that Fernandez is describing the injury as fasciitis.

Demin, the eighth overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, is having a solid rookie season as he's averaging 10.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game while shooting 39.9% from the field and 38.5% from three-point land. With Demin out of the lineup, there has been more playing time for players like backup point guard Ben Saraf and guard Terance Mann, who has been filling in for Demin as the starting shooting guard in the meantime.

Powell, 20, is getting some much-needed reps with Long Island and it seems that he's making the most of his opportunity to experiment with his game on both ends of the floor. In Long Island's 117-115 win over the Greensboro Swarm on Friday, Powell put up 11 points, five rebounds, and two assists alongside Two-Way forward EJ Liddell, who had 36 points and 13 rebounds in the winning effort.

For tomorrow's game at the Pistons, the Nets say that Egor Demin (left plantar fascia injury management) and Drake Powell (G League assignment) are OUT.

— Sharif Phillips-Keaton (@SharifKeaton) March 6, 2026

Jordi Fernandez on rookie Egor Demin missing another game: "He's struggled with plantar fasciitis, and the soreness has increased lately. So we're being cautious and trying to figure out what's the best way for him moving forward.” #Nets#NBA

— Brian Lewis (@NYPost_Lewis) March 6, 2026

This article originally appeared on Nets Wire: Nets' Egor Demin (left plantar fascia) out Saturday at Pistons

The only thing missing to Nebraska’s last hit of the game tonight was light bulbs exploding and French horns celebrating a home run that every young boy dreams about hitting.  Case Sanderson pulled the Cornhuskers to a hard-earned victory with two outs in the bottom of the tenth inning with a towering home run with one of the most incredible swings fans have ever seen in Haymarket Park.

Before the fireworks finale, Nebraska’s Big Ten opener had to wait two hours to get started with threatening weather in the area, and then those fans that stuck around got extra baseball as Michigan State came up big in the top of the ninth with a three-run homer to tie it up at 4-4 and Nebraska did not answer in the bottom of the frame.

Nebraska’s Ty Horn and Sparty’s Aidan Donovan locked horns in a good old-fashioned pitcher’s duel.  When the dust cleared, Donovan went six full innings and Horn went seven, both of them throwing 101 pitches.  Neither of them had their A-game, but both of them showed tremendous fight and grit.

Nebraska took the lead in the bottom of the 2^nd innings when Jett Buck found his swing again with a single.  After he stole a base, Devin Nunez drove him in on a single of his own to put the first run on the board.

The Spartans bot their first run in the fifth with two outs when Khamaree Thomas got his second hit of the game, advanced to second base on a wild pitch and then scored on an RBI single by Randy Seymour.  Tie ball game, 1-1.

The Big Red answered an inning later in the sixth when Buck hit a shot that just cleared the right-center field wall for a home run.  Nebraska up 2-1.

Nebraska extended their lead with runs in the seventh and eighth.  Jeter Worthley got his third hit of the game and advanced to second on a throwing error.  Up came Mac Moyer at the top of the lineup who drove him home with a single of his own.  The Cornhuskers were up 3-1

With Kevin Mannell on the mound for Nebraska, Michigan State brought the tying run to the plate in the top of the 8^th inning with Khamaree Thomas on first and one out.  With Ryan McKay at the plate, Thomas surprisingly took off to second and was thrown out by Worthley.  Worthley almost got him in the 5^th inning trying to steal and this one evened the score in a big situation.

In the bottom of the eighth inning, Case Sanderson led off with a double and then scored two batters later on a single by Rhett Stokes, who had come in as a replacement for Buck.  At this point, up 4-1, all Nebraska needed was closer Kevin Mannell to get through the ninth.

Mannell had sat the Spartans down in order in the previous inning, but he ran into big trouble in the ninth.  Nick Williams worked a walk to lead things off, followed by a base hit by Adam Broski.  Mannell was struggling with control of his breaking pitches and going deep in the count.  He paid for it in a big way when he left a slider over the plate that Isaac Sturgess blasted over the right field wall.  MSU tied it up at 4-4.  That was the end of the road for Mannell.  

J’Shawn Unger came in with the weight of the world on his shoulders and ended the Sparty threat with two strike outs and a ground out, though Big Red fans had heart palpations when Cole Van Ameyde ripped a triple with two outs and stood 90-feet away from the lead until Unger got his second K. 

Nebraska went down in order in the bottom of the ninth.  Unger returned for the tenth inning and despite giving up a one-out double to Ryan McKay was able to keep the boys from East Lansing for scoring the go-ahead run.

You’d like to think that with Joshua Overbeek and Dylan Carey the first two batters in the Nebraska tenth good things were going to happen.  However, Spartan reliever JD Greeley was up to the challenge, striking out Overbeek and seeing his leftfielder Nick Williams make a great catch to rob Carey of at least a double.  

Two outs and Case Sanderson came to the plate having a single and a double already in the game.  On a 2-1 pitch from Greeley Case Sanderson hit a Kyle Schwarberesque home run that probably broke a windshield in the parking lot.  As his teammates mobbed him at home plate, Nebraska had pulled off a 5-4 victory over Michigan State.

Nebraska out hit MSU 13 to 10, but one of the two errors made by the Spartans did cost them a run in the seventh inning.  Michigan State pitching did not surrender a walk or hit a batter.  Nebraska walked two and hit one batter.  That’s high-quality pitching, folks!

You can expect more the same tomorrow as the two teams are scheduled to face-off again at 1:00 p.m.  Carson Jasa will look to get his second win of the season, as will his Spartan counterpart, Carter Monke.  Recent history suggests that this will be another close ball game, and don’t be surprised when something unexpected makes a difference in the game.

Notes:

• Ty Horn has incredibly quick feet, which makes his pick-off move deadly.  He’s easily the best righthander Nebraska has had since Matt Waldren in napping runners at first base.  His 7^th inning pick of Trent Rice was crucial with Khamaree Thomas coming up, who had already had two hits off Horn.
• Both nine-hole hitters – Jeter Worthley for Nebraska and Khamaree Thomas for Michigan State both had three hits on the day.  Pretty dang good for the bottom of the lineup.
• Case Sanderson and Jeter Worthley both had three hits today and Jett Buck had two.  The team hit .429 with runners in scoring position.
• Nebraska paid for converting infielders to outfielders, and prioritizing hitting over defense twice tonight.  Max Buettenback had to dive for a fly ball that ended up being a triple.  He’s played in the outfield since he arrived, but he’s certainly not a strong defensive player.  On the Van Ameyde triple in the ninth, converted infielder Devin Nunez slid past a flyball.  With the wind, that’s a tough play for any outfielder, but why did they wait until after the play to put in a strong defensive outfielder, Drew Grego?  It is not uncommon for college teams to take former infielders and turn them in to outfielders, but when you have better defensive players on the bench, it makes sense to have them out there at the end of tight games.
• While Michigan State now sits at 3-9 on the season, keep in mind that they started the season beating Louisville twice.  The same Louisville team that Nebraska lost to in Texas.  And, they played three games against perennial power Texas and one against Clemson.  They are a much better team than their record would indicate.  They aren’t playing an Iowa schedule.

BALTIMORE — Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta intimated in January that Baltimore could pursue a couple of “big-ticket items” this offseason. They landed one of the biggest on Friday night.

The Las Vegas Raiders have agreed to trade two-time All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Maxx Crosby to the Ravens in exchange for Baltimore’s first-round draft pick in 2026 and 2027, a source with direct knowledge of the situation confirmed to The Baltimore Sun.

The blockbuster deal is easily the most significant trade Baltimore has made in years. That DeCosta was willing to part with notable draft capital was also telling of his conviction that Crosby, a player with elite pass rush skills and relentless motor, can immediately help turn around what was one of the worst defenses in the NFL last season, particularly when it came to getting to the quarterback.

“We certainly know that we have to augment the pass rush and improve there, and when we look at the best defenses, we see a ferocious pass rush, and that was lacking this year for different reasons,” DeCosta said at the NFL scouting combine two weeks ago, adding that it’s a position he felt Baltimore could “attack” this offseason.

Now the hope is that Crosby, who will turn 30 in August, will do the same to opposing offenses.

There is ample evidence that he could have a major impact and help return Baltimore to being one of the league’s more feared defenses.

Crosby has 69 1/2 sacks across six seasons, racking up at least 10 in four of them, including last season. Ravens defensive tackle Travis Jones led the Ravens last year with five sacks, and Baltimore’s 30 tied for the third-fewest in the NFL, with the defense also languishing near the bottom in pressure rate and pass rush win-rate. By contrast, Crosby hit double digits in sacks despite missing the final two games because of a meniscus injury and finished with 73 tackles, two forced fumbles, six pass breakups and his first career interception. A stout run defender, his 28 tackles for loss also ranked second behind only NFL Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett, and he has twice led the league in the category.

His arrival also gives the Ravens their most forbidding pass rusher since Terrell Suggs and bolsters a group in need of top-tier talent as much as depth, with outside linebackers Dre’Mont Jones, Kyle Van Noy and David Ojabo all due to be free agents.

Second-year edge rusher Mike Green, whom Baltimore selected in the second round of last year’s draft, should benefit from Crosby’s presence as well. He had just 3 1/2 sacks in his first season, but his 34 pressures, per Pro Football Focus, ranked sixth among rookies. Outside of Green and Crosby, the Ravens’ only other outside linebackers are Tavius Robinson, who is more suited as a dependable edge setter than as a pass rusher, and Adisa Isaac, who was injured most of his first two seasons.

The trade for Crosby is also Baltimore’s most notable acquisition since dealing for linebacker Roquan Smith midway through the 2022 season for a second-round pick and fifth-round pick and their most noteworthy for a pass rusher since trading a third- and fifth-round pick for outside linebacker Yannick Ngakoue during the 2020 season, a deal that did not pan out well for the Ravens. Landing Crosby, though, is far more momentous.

The Ravens are also well acquainted with his disruptive abilities.

Following a 2024 Week 2 upset by the Raiders over Baltimore at M&T Bank Stadium, Crosby was named AFC Player of the Week for his two sacks, six tackles, including four for loss, and one pass breakup.

Despite his past two seasons being cut short by injury, he has also been largely durable. Crosby has played 94 games since 2020 and ranks second in pressures and third in quarterback hits during that span.

“There’s a lot of factors, I would say, that go into rushing the passer well,” Ravens first-year coach and former Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter said last month. “Sometimes, it’s playing with the lead; sometimes it’s blitzing more. So, I think there’s a variety of ways to affect the pass rush.”

Starting with having a highly impactful pass rusher.

A 2019 fourth-round pick out of Eastern Michigan by the Raiders — a franchise whose unofficial motto evoked the idea that the other team’s quarterback needs to go down and go down hard — Crosby ranks third in franchise history in sacks behind Greg Townsend and Pro Football Hall of Famer Howie Long. He also has 439 career tackles, including 133 for loss, and 164 quarterback hits.

As the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline concluded, the Los Angeles Kings proved themselves to be neither true buyers nor sellers, bringing in two experienced forwards while simultaneously shipping out two others.

After starting their deadline transactions by sending Warren Foegele to the Ottawa Senators for draft picks, they continued making moves by trading Corey Perry to the Tampa Bay Lightning for another pick, this time a 2028 second-rounder. Later in the day, they signed forward Mathieu Joseph and traded a conditional third-round pick to the Toronto Maple Leafs for center Scott Laughton just before the deadline passed. Both of those moves reunited the players with Kings interim head coach D.J. Smith, who coached Laughton at the junior level and Joseph with the Senators.

“He’s a really good third line center, can also play third line left wing,” Kings general manager Ken Holland said. “He kills penalties, he’s greasy, he’s gritty.”

The moves highlight the balance that general manager Ken Holland is trying to strike between pushing for the playoffs while only a few points out, but simultaneously not throwing away assets for what would likely be a very difficult playoff run from a low seed.

“Coming into the deadline, what did I want to do? I wanted to try to get another pick or two for our scouts,” Holland said. “We got to continue to draft, try to get some young players in the organization. At the same time, with the win last night, I think we’re, what, three points back, four points back? We lose every tie breaker. So we need to continue to push.”

Holland’s boldest move in his time in Los Angeles came a month ago, when he traded for forward Artemi Panarin. Since then, however, the team has lost Kevin Fiala for the rest of the season, Andrei Kuzmenko for an extended period of time, and Joel Armia and Quinton Byfield to shorter-term injuries.

“I think if Fiala was healthy and Armia was healthy and Byfield was healthy, we’d be looking at our team different,” Holland said. “That’s why I did the [Panarin] deal before the deadline. We don’t have lots of key pieces. I don’t have to tell you what Armia can do, and I don’t have to tell you what Byfield can do, and what Fiala can do, or has done. So we’re trying to put the best team that we can on the ice on an every night basis.”

The contradiction of these two quotes highlights the difficulty that sometimes arises in professional sports — the desire of the players and coaches to win every game possible, and the tough choices that executives have to make that might not always lead to those results in the immediate future.

“Regardless of what happened, my job is to go in, provide structure, energy, and try and win every game possible,” Smith said shortly after the deadline. “Kenny’s done this for a long time, makes the decisions as to which way we’re going, which players are going to be here, and then my job is to coach them. So it’s good that it’s over and there’s no stress on anyone’s mind, but our goal is just to win the next game.”

Holland, meanwhile, experienced the other side of that balance, wanting to do right by his current players but also needing to set up the team to be in the best position possible in the coming seasons. Having been the architect of so many dominant winning teams during his executive career, he’s not used to being in that position.

“No player wants to sell. So these are the decisions that I have to make,” he said. “You know, was I going to trade some players away? I know what I’ve done in the past, when … you’re in buyer mode, then I would go to the captain and say, you know, ‘From your perspective, what do you think we need?’ Certainly where we are in the standings, I had to make some philosophical decisions that [Kings captain Anze Kopitar] couldn’t make.”

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Lakers will be without their superstar on Friday night.

LeBron James has been ruled out for Friday’s matchup against the Indiana Pacers after suffering a left elbow contusion during Thursday night’s game against the Denver Nuggets, per Lakers head coach JJ Redick.

James was injured in the closing minutes of the Lakers’ game in Denver after taking a hard fall on his left elbow while battling for position. Despite the painful landing, James remained in the game after being checked by team medical staff on the sideline.

Before Friday’s game, Redick met with reporters and provided an update.

Redick described James as “a little banged up”, noting that the elbow injury is the main concern but also acknowledging the normal wear and tear that comes with the long NBA season.

The Lakers are being cautious and held James out against Indiana, but the early outlook is encouraging.

According to Redick, he believes James should be available Sunday when they host the New York Knicks.

Lakers missing multiple players Friday

James isn’t the only Laker sidelined for Friday night’s game.

Deandre Ayton and forward Maxi Kleber are also out against Indiana.

• Ayton is dealing with a lingering issue and is considered day-to-day.

• Kleber recently underwent imaging on his back, and he is also listed day-to-day moving forward.

With several rotation players unavailable, the Lakers will need other contributors to step up as they try to keep momentum in the Western Conference playoff race.

Short-term absence expected

For now, the Lakers appear confident that James’ absence will be brief.

The decision to sit him Friday is largely precautionary after the physical fall in Denver, and the expectation inside the organization is that the 39-year-old star will be ready to return Sunday.

Still, any time James appears on an injury report, it draws attention — especially as the Lakers push through a crucial stretch of the season.

If all goes according to plan, the Lakers’ leader will be back on the floor this weekend, with Friday serving as a short recovery stop after a tough night in Denver. 

Cooper Flagg's homecoming at TD Garden was nearly cut short in the opening minutes of the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Boston Celtics.

Flagg limped off the court after he drove toward the basket, while splitting two defenders, for a shot attempt. Flagg's shot was short as he went to the ground and immediately began holding his left leg and ankle.

The Maine native did return and finished out the game in the eventual 120-100 loss to the Celtics.

Flagg returned from an eight-game absence on Thursday in a 115-114 loss to the Orlando Magic. Flagg had suffered a left midfoot sprain on Feb. 10.

Cooper Flagg stats vs. Celtics

Points: 16

FG: 7-for-23 (0-for-4 from 3-point line)

Free throws: 2-for-2

Rebounds: 8

Assists: 6

Steals: 1

Blocks: 0

Turnovers: 3

Fouls: 5

Minutes: 30

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Cooper Flagg stats, points tonight, Mavericks vs Celtics highlights

Penn State lost its third straight game, an embarrassing 5-2 loss to Wisconsin at Pegula Ice Arena. Charlie Cerrato finally returned to the lineup, but his presence was not enough to wake up the team. The Nittany Lions fell behind 4-0 under siege from the Badgers’ attack early in the second period, and outside of a quick one-minute burst where Penn State scored its two goals, they looked like they did not belong on the same ice as Wisconsin. It is certainly not what we want to see entering the postseason, and it feels like the season has already slipped away.

First Period

A cross-checking penalty on JJ Wiebusch in the offensive zone led to Wisconsin’s first power play of the night. Penn State’s aggressive penalty kill went to work. Casey Aman made a nice block on Quinn Finley, and Matt DiMarsico nearly scored on a shorthanded breakaway. The Nittany Lions killed off the penalty.

Wisconsin finally broke free of Penn State’s forecheck, and a great outlet pass by Gavin Morrissey through the neutral zone led to a 2-on-2 rush. Christian Fitzgerald fed it across to Quinn Finley, who potted his 15th goal of the season to give the visitors a 1-0 lead.

The Nittany Lions killed another penalty late in the period, but Wisconsin tilted the ice in the back half of the period, outshooting Penn State 12-1 after the Lions got off to a 7-2 advantage early. Wisconsin took a 1-0 lead into the intermission.

Second Period

Gavin Morrissey deflected a point shot with poor coverage in front of the net and Kevin Reidler out of position to extend Wisconsin’s lead to 2-0. On the next shift, Oliver Tulk was in perfect position to redirect the puck into the back of the net after the Badgers won another puck battle at the boards, and the deficit grew to 3-0.

The Badgers remained relentless on the attack, and a Blake Montgomery blast from the blue line blew past Kevin Reidler and extended the lead to 4-0. Wisconsin rolled up the first 11 shots of the period and had the Nittany Lions on their heels and lifeless. Reidler was pulled for Josh Fleming after giving up his fourth of the night.

A pair of penalties on Wisconsin led to extended power play time for Penn State, and Shea Van Olm blasted a one-timer from the faceoff circle to put the Lions on the board:

On the next shift, Gavin McKenna skated in toward the net and lulled Daniel Hauser out of the crease. McKenna hooked a pass to Reese Laubach in the slot, and Laubach backhanded it home to cut the lead to 4-2:

Wisconsin took the momentum back with a couple of solid shifts in the offensive zone and nearly restored the three-goal lead but for a huge save by Josh Fleming.

Third Period

Shea Van Olm missed a shot wide with Penn State pressuring in the offensive zone that created an odd-man rush for Wisconsin the other way. Ryan Botterill fed Oliver Tulk on the 2-on-1, and Tulk scored his second of the night to give Wisconsin an insurance goal early in the third.

Blake Montgomery got a game misconduct for cross-checking Jackson Smith in the chin. Penn State generated a couple of good looks but looked disjointed for far too long on the five-minute power play. The pace of the game slowed down in the third, which is never a good sign for the trailing team. To make matters worse, Gavin McKenna skated gingerly toward the bench late in the game. Wisconsin cruised to a 5-2 win and a sweep of Penn State on the road.

Scoring Summary

First Period

• WISC: Quinn Finley (15)- Christian Fitzgerald (13), Gavin Morrissey (24)- 5v5- 11:37

Second Period

• WISC: Gavin Morrissey (8)- Ben Dexheimer (18), Quinn Finley (14)- 5v5- 0:22
• WISC: Oliver Tulk (6)- Ryan Botterill (9), Jack Horbach (5)- 5v5- 1:29
• WISC: Blake Montgomery (9)- Luke Osburn (15), Vasily Zelenov (11)- 5v5- 4:52
• PSU: Shea Van Olm (8)- Mac Gadowsky (15), Charlie Cerrato (19)- PP- 12:43
• PSU: Reese Laubach (11)- Gavin McKenna (34), Aiden Fink (26)- 5v5- 13:56

Third Period

• WISC: Oliver Tulk (7)- Ryan Botterill (10)- 5v5- 1:59

Shots By Period

• WISC: 14-16-7-37
• PSU: 8-7-10-25

Takeaways

• Pathetic- This is honestly my only takeaway from this game. I attended over 60 games in the Roar Zone as a student, and I have watched hundreds more Penn State hockey games on TV over the last 13 years. I have never seen a Penn State team completely give up the way this team did in the second period. They could not even break out of their own zone for the first 10 minutes of the period and got shelled by Wisconsin over and over with no resistance. The quote from Reese Laubach after last night’s loss painted quite a picture. There’s no leadership or accountability right now. I’m not calling for anyone’s head because bad seasons happen and Penn State has always rebounded, but something is seriously wrong in this moment and it is not going to magically disappear.

What’s Next

Penn State will host Minnesota in the first round of the Big Ten Tournament on Wednesday night. Puck drop is scheduled for 7pm on Big Ten Plus.

The Nittany Lions have slipped to No. 11 in the NPI, meaning what was a near-guaranteed NCAA bid two days ago is suddenly in jeopardy. Wednesday is now a must-win game.

Apparently what happens in Vegas doesn't stay in Vegas – at least when it comes to Maxx Crosby. 

The Las Vegas Raiders agreed to trade Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens, per multiple reports. Vegas will acquire 2026 and 2027 first-round NFL draft picks from Baltimore in exchange for the star pass-rusher, ESPN reports.

It comes just one year after Crosby inked a a three-year, $106.5 million extension to extend his stay in Sin City. \

Loyalty was never a question for the Eastern Michigan product, who endured plenty of losing with the Raiders from Oakland to Vegas and just one playoff game in seven seasons.

Rumors have swirled the last few years, but Crosby refrained from pushing the issue with a trade request.

This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Raiders trade Eastern Michigan's Maxx Crosby to Ravens in blockbuster deal

Texas A&M's bats came alive for a dominant 10-2 win over Oakland in Game 2, as the Aggies hit .355 as a team with two home runs to clinch the series win over the Golden Bears at Blue Bell Park in Bryan-College Station, Texas, on Friday night.

Right-hander Weston Moss got the start and wasted no time attacking Oakland's lineup with nasty pitches to open Game 2. Following a 1-2-3 first inning from Moss on the mound, first baseman Grant Grahovac got the scoring party started for Texas A&M with an RBI single into left field.

In place of Chris Hacopian at shortstop, who is dealing with a nagging back injury, Boston Kellner displayed his ability swinging the bat by hammering a two-RBI single for a 3-0 lead, but the Aggies were not done. A sacrifice-fly from catcher Zane Becker and a walk plated two more runs to end the first inning.

Texas A&M's lineup continued its dominance in the second, as Grahovac drilled a solo home run to center field and Kellner blasted a two-run homer to left for an 8-0 lead after two. The massive bomb from Grahovac marked his second home run of the campaign, as he continues to establish his presence as a clutch hitter for the Aggies in his return from a torn labrum that sidelined him much of his first two seasons playing baseball for Texas A&M.

Boston bomb 💣 pic.twitter.com/wkI4yCkfdd

— Texas A&M Baseball (@AggieBaseball) March 7, 2026

The Aggie bullpen performed well against the Golden Bears, as Moss allowed three hits and just one run, while striking out three Oakland hitters in the win. During Game 1, left-handed starter Shane Sdao recorded a career-high eight strikeouts in the 6-3 decision. Gavin Lyons and Hunter Vincent combined for four strikeouts and allowed just one run in relief of Moss in the series-clinching victory in Game 2.

Next up, Texas A&M will look for a sweep against Oakland in the series finale from Blue Bell Park on Saturday. Due to inclement weather expected in College Station, the Aggies and Golden Bears will get started at 11 a.m. CT. The game will be broadcast live on 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 Dylan on X: @dylanmflippo.

This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M secures series win over Oakland with 10-2 victory in Game 2

2026 Summit League Men’s Basketball Tournament Basics

Format

Bracket with split quarterfinal doubleheaders, giving the top two seeds a day off before the semifinals (should they win).

Site

The Summit League Tournament has been a Sioux Falls, South Dakota fixture since 2009, with Sioux Falls Arena hosting up until 2015, when the event moved to the Denny Sanford Premier Center (except for the fan-less COVID-impacted 2021 edition held at the Sanford Pentagon).

Participants

All nine teams are heading to Sioux Falls, and all of them are eligible for the NCAA and NIT, as St. Thomas was able to accelerate their reclassification to end at the end of the 2024-25 academic year.

This will be Denver’s final Summit League Tournament, as the Pioneers are off the WCC for the 2026-27 season.

Schedule

Downloadable PDF Bracket

TV/Streaming Info

Midco Sports will air and Summit League Network ($) will stream all games up to the semifinals.

First Round (Wed. 3/4)

Gm. 1: (9) Kansas City (4-27, 1-15) 62, (8) Oral Roberts 84

Quarterfinals (Thurs. 3/5)

Gm. 2: (8) Oral Roberts (10-23, 4-12) 65, (1) North Dakota State 76
Gm. 3: (7) South Dakota State (14-18, 7-9) 67, (2) St. Thomas 80

Quarterfinals (Fri. 3/6)

Gm. 4: (5) Omaha 76, (4) South Dakota (16-16, 8-8) 62
Gm. 5: (6) Denver (15-16, 8-8) vs. (3) North Dakota (16-16, 10-6), 9:30*
Road split: Fighting Hawks 93-86 on 1/24 and Pioneers 98-79 on 2/7.

Semifinals (Sat. 3/7)

CBSSN will air both games.

Gm. 6: (5) Omaha (16-16, 8-8) vs. (1) North Dakota State (25-7, 14-2), 8
The Bison swept: 78-76 (away) on 1/10 and 92-84 (home) on 2/7.
Gm. 7: Gm. 5 winner vs. (2) St. Thomas (24-8, 12-4), 10:30*

Championship (Sun. 3/8)

Gm. 8: Semifinal winners, 9 (CBSSN)

Mayhem Potential

Data originally posted by Bob Vetrone Jr. on Twitterin 2020 with my own additions for the seasons beyond.

Since 2011, one of the Summit League’s top two seeds has won the automatic bid 12 times. Nine of those titles have gone to the No. 1, including the last four. That’s good news for North Dakota State.

• 1 seed (9): 2011, 2013, 2014, 2018, 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025
• 2 seed (3): 2012, 2015, 2016
• 4 seed (3): 2017, 2019, 2021

NCAA Seeding Record In The 68-Team Era

Years with an NCAA win are in bold.

• 12 seed (4):2014, 2016, 2018, 2023
• 13 seed (3): 2011, 2013, 2022
• 14 seed (1): 2012
• 15 seed (4): 2015, 2021, 2024, 2025
• 16 seed (2): 2017, 2019 (First Four)

For many recent seasons, the Summit League alternated between a 12 or 13 seed then a 15 or 16. But that ended in 2025, with Omaha earning the conference’s second consecutive 15 seed. St. Thomas is the highest-ranked team in the NET in its first season of eligibility at 104, with NDSU currently 13 spots behind at 117. Those two teams are the conference’s best chance of avoiding a 15 or 16 seed, as everyone else is outside of the NET Top 200.

Note that the conference has won games out of the 12, 15, and 16 slots since the field expanded to 68, with 15th-seeded Oral Roberts winning two in 2021.

Last NCAA Tournament Appearances

Omaha: 2025 (15 seed, 1st Round)
South Dakota State: 2024 (15 seed, 1st Round)
Oral Roberts: 2023 (12 seed, 1st Round)
North Dakota State: 2019 (16 seed, 1st Round)—2020 Summit League Tournament Champion
North Dakota: 2017 (15 seed, 1st Round, Big Sky member)

In 2021, Oral Roberts ended a run that saw either NDSU or SDSU win the Summit League Tournament for nine consecutive years. Meanwhile, Oakland, now in the Horizon League, represented the conference in both 2010 and 2011. When you consider NDSU also qualified in 2009, Oral Roberts’ three bids (2008, 2021, and 2023) were the only times a current Summit member not nicknamed “Bison” or “Jackrabbits” represented the conference in the field of 68.

The Summit League’s four members—Denver, Kansas City, newly-eligible St. Thomas, and South Dakota are all searching for their first bid at the D1 level.

In one of the biggest blockbuster moves in franchise history for both teams, the Raiders agreed to trade five-time Pro-Bowl DE Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for 2026 and 2027 first-round picks. Crosby signed a three-year, $109.5 million extension last March that made him the highest-paid pass rusher in the league. The Raiders were interested in dealing Crosby this offseason, and Las Vegas received a Micah Parsons-type trade to facilitate the deal.

Crosby, who has spent his entire seven-year career with the Raiders, is the biggest domino to fall this offseason.

The move will strip the Ravens of the 14th pick, while the Raiders will have the No. 1 overall pick, and the 14th pick, along with their own first-round pick and the Ravens' selection in the 2027 NFL draft.

The pass rusher underwent a minor meniscus repair and will have a few months of rehab. Crosby has earned five consecutive Pro Bowl nods and 69.5 career sacks. Crosby, who has had double-digit sacks in three of his last four years and is coming off a career-high 28 tackles for loss in 2025, could command multiple first-round picks.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens trade two first-round picks for Maxx Crosby: NFL Draft fallout

Cleetus McFarland has put one foot in the door of the NASCAR Xfinity Series after signing a two-year agreement with Richard Childress Racing. His first outing in the second division will come at Rockingham Speedway, with the agreement also expected to include starts at Daytona and Talladega Superspeedway. Sadly, it has sparked some rather unpleasant talk surrounding him in the garage and around the community.

Many have questioned how a figure from YouTube landed a seat in the series, and some have pointed to his past run at Daytona in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, where his race ended in a wreck six laps after the green flag. In the court of public opinion, that moment became the yardstick for judging whether he belonged in the field.

Veteran driver Mark Martin, however, has come out in McFarland’s defense, arguing that the road to NASCAR has never been a one-lane highway. Martin said that drivers have long reached the national stage through many routes.

Martin said on Dirty Mo Overdrive, “There’s all different paths to get to NASCAR. All the way back to my days when I first got started in the early 80s, there were different paths for drivers. The traditional path would be say a local late model driver who worked his way up and became a contender at let’s say the Snowball Derby or the Winchester 400 or the All-American 400 and built their name up that way.”

“That is the traditional way, but there’s always been other routes for selected few through the years. There were back in the 80s and all the way to today. And so Cleetus has made a name for himself doing really fun videos. And I personally don’t know Cleetus, but I have seen some of his racing in the Crown Vicks, and I’m going to tell you, Cleetus can drive,” he continued.

Martin acknowledged that McFarlandhas not climbed the ladder through series such as the ARCA Menards Series, which often serves as a gateway to NASCAR. Still, the veteran brushed aside the backlash tied to the YouTuber’s Truck Series outing at Daytona.

Racing is one of the fields where drivers learn through trial and error, and the sport rarely hands out free passes. A driver can run out of luck or find trouble in the blink of an eye. Even drivers with decades in the cockpit still make mistakes, though the gap lies in how often those moments occur.

What stood out to Martin was how McFarland handled the fallout. Rather than pointing fingers, McFarland joked after the race that he “didn’t check himself before he wrecked himself.” And that reaction spoke volumes about how the driver took the moment on the chin.

That mindset could serve McFarland well with a team such as Richard Childress Racing, which has built a reputation for producing cars that run in the draft on superspeedways. If McFarland finds himself in one of those machines, the equipment could allow him to stay with the pack and keep pace in the draft, particularly when the series goes to Talladega.

New faces in the sport often face a trial by fire. Every move sits under a microscope, and each slip can turn into a talking point. Martin argued that drivers who are still learning should be given room to find their footing instead of continuously being raked over the coals for every misstep.

He knows that path from his own run through the sport. Early in a career, even drivers who later build long records make their share of mistakes. Over time, they settle in, learn the ropes, and smooth out those rough patches.

The post Mark Martin Sends Strong Message to Fans Who Take Issue With Cleetus McFarland’s NASCAR Foray appeared first on The SportsRush.

Jayson Tatum made a triumphant return from long-term injury as the Boston Celtics defeated the Dallas Mavericks 120-100 in the NBA on Friday.

Tatum, making his first appearance since suffering a ruptured right Achilles tendon during the playoffs last May, scored 15 points to help the Celtics secure a commanding win.

Boston's packed TD Garden had risen as one to give the popular 28-year-old a rousing standing ovation as he took to the court for the first time in 298 days.

The six-time NBA All-Star looked apprehensive during a slow start but looked like his old self after bagging his first points late in the second quarter.

A two-point tip-in dunk got him off the mark, and he followed that up with a confident step-back three-pointer from the corner immediately afterwards to give the Celtics a 55-53 lead.

He added 10 more points in the second half as Boston pulled clear for a win which leaves the second-placed Celtics on 42-21 in the Eastern Conference, hard on the heels of the Detroit Pistons (45-16).

"It was surreal, it was an emotional day," Tatum told ESPN after the win. "Many days I dreamed about this and it's great to finally happen. And sharing it with my family, my teammates and the crowd was everything I ever dreamed of."

Tatum admitted that during a long, lonely rehab he had even questioned whether he would be able to return.

"It's been tough," he said. "A lot of times I doubted myself. A lot of nights I spent crying. But I just tried to keep showing up every day and put my best foot forward. I've still got a long way to go but this is a huge step for me."

Tatum added that his teammates' impressive form this season had helped motivate him to return.

"Being around these guys motivated me – the way they've attacked the season, the way they've competed together," he said.

"Going through rehab is lonely, you kind of feel isolated. You just can't be out there. But being around them as much as I possibly could just still made me feel like I was part of the group and that helped me a lot."

Tatum was one part of a balanced Boston offensive performance in Friday's win. Jaylen Brown led the Celtics scorers with 24 points, while Derrick White added 20. Payton Pritchard also caught the eye with 18 points off the bench.

Klay Thompson led the Mavericks' scoring with 19 points off the bench including five three-pointers.

rcw/bb

Nazem Kadri won a Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in 2022 and wasn't re-signed, starting the team's search for a No. 2 center.

They finally found one at the 2025 NHL trade deadline with Brock Nelson. But now they also have found a Kadri-style player.

Nazem Kadri.

The Avalanche and Calgary Flamesworked out a deal to bring back Kadri, giving up only Victor Olofsson off their roster, plus draft picks and an unsigned draft pick. Colorado now has enviable center depth and can trot out Nathan MacKinnon, Nelson, Kadri and fellow 2026 trade deadline acquisition Nicolas Roy.

Here are the winners and losers of the 2026 NHL trade deadline:

WINNERS

Nick Foligno joins brother

Minnesota Wild general manager Bill Guerin, who made the big move for Quinn Hughes earlier in the season, was busy during deadline week. He added penalty killing forward Michael McCarron and winger Bobby Brink, plus depth defenseman Jeff Petry. But his acquisition of Nick Foligno had an added benefit for the former Blackhawks captain. He'll get to play alongside his brother Marcus for the first time in their professional careers.

Sabres go all-in

The Sabres have been on a roll since Jarmo Kekalainen replaced fired Kevyn Adams as general manager. And the GM took steps to try to help the team end a record 14-season playoff drought. An attempted trade for Colton Parayko didn't materialize when the defenseman declined to waive his no-trade clause. Kekalainen responded with a trade for the Jets' Logan Stanley and Luke Schenn, giving Buffalo a rugged third defensive pairing behind an impressive top four that includes Rasmus Dahlin. Sam Carrick was added to improve the team's league-worst faceoff winning percentage, and depth forward Tanner Pearson also joined. Schenn and Pearson have won Stanley Cup titles, important if the Sabres make a rare foray into the postseason.

Panthers hang on to free agents

The Panthers' run of back-to-back championships (and three trips to the Final) is heading toward an end because of a string of injuries that include captain Aleksander Barkov tearing his ACL on the first day of fall practice. GM Bill Zito traded pending free agent Petry but held on to free agents Sergei Bobrovsky and A.J. Greer and will try to re-sign them. The Panthers' core, when healthy, is still championship caliber. If they can't overcome their deficit, they can heal up and try again next season.

LOSERS

Capitals players devastated

They took it hard when Nic Dowd was dealt to the Golden Knights after being in Washington since 2018-19. Then they woke up Friday morning to find out that 17-year veteran John Carlson was heading to Anaheim after a late-night trade.

"Today sucks, it's brutal," forward Tom Wilson told reporters. "I’m sure there are some guys that want to cry. That’s the reality of it. Today you can cry and tomorrow you got to wake up and be a big boy and go out and play hockey."

Awkward position for Colton Parayko

Parayko had every right to veto a trade to Buffalo. That's why agents negotiate no-trade clauses with teams. But the fact that news of the trade leaked made things awkward for the defenseman as he took the time to make a decision on his future.

"We did some due diligence as soon as that happened," general manager Doug Armstrong told reporters, according to the Post-Dispatch. "We checked the phone records of all of our staff, texts and emails, and everybody passed the test, not surprisingly. I was disappointed it got out. I know it didn't come from us."

Toronto Maple Leafs

The Maple Leafs gave up a first-round pick and a prospect last season to land Scott Laughton and two mid-round picks from the Flyers. Leafs general manager Brad Treliving traded the pending free agent to the Kings on Friday and received a conditional third-round pick. It can become a second-rounder if Los Angeles makes the playoffs.

New CBA rules

The new collective bargaining agreement included a playoff salary cap and rules making it harder for teams to use a second team to retain some salary in a trade. The result: Deadline day was fairly dull until the Kadri trade surfaced.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NHL trade deadline winners and losers include Avalanche, Maple Leafs

FREEDOM!!!! ⚔️— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) March 7, 2026

2026 Atlantic Sun Conference Men’s Basketball Tournament Basics

Format

Traditional bracket

Site

Jacksonville will host the entirety of the ASUN tournament at three different venues. Three first-round games are set for UNF Arena, including JU’s contest against Bellarmine. UNF’s first-round game against West Georgia is the only one scheduled for JU’s Swisher Gym. From the quarterfinals on, the venue shifts to Veterans Memorial Arena downtown.

Participants

All 12 ASUN members will participate with Queens eligible for the NCAA Tournament and NIT for the first time, as its reclassification period is over thanks to the NCAAs accelerated timeline. West Georgia will participate but is ineligible for the automatic bid as the Wolves aren’t scheduled to become full D1 members until 2027-28.

However, West Georgia will also be one of five current ASUN members who will move to the United Athletic Conference after this academic year. The ASUN and WAC formed a strategic alliance that will see the latter conference’s remaining Texas-based members (including non-football UT Arlington) form a rebranded UAC with the ASUN’s five scholarship FCS members, and non-football Little Rock (from the OVC). So next season, we will have:

• ASUN (7 members): Bellarmine, FGCU, Jacksonville, Lipscomb, North Florida, Queens, Stetson
• UAC (9 members): Abilene Christian (WAC), Austin Peay (ASUN), Central Arkansas (ASUN), Eastern Kentucky (ASUN), Little Rock (OVC, non-football), North Alabama (ASUN), Tarleton (WAC), UT Arlington (WAC, non-football), West Georgia (ASUN)

If you remember correctly, both UT Arlington and Little Rock were forced out of the Sun Belt after the 2021-22 season because they did not sponsor football.

Schedule

Downloadable PDF Bracket

ESPN+ ($) will stream all games before the championship.

First Round (Wed. 3/4)

Gm. 1: (9) Jacksonville (12-20, 7-11) 79, (8) Bellarmine 82
Gm. 2: 12) North Alabama (9-21, 4-14) 58, (5) FGCU 69
Gm. 3:(10) Stetson 92, (7) Eastern Kentucky (11-21, 7-11) 76
Gm. 4: (11) North Florida (7-25, 5-13) 85, (6) West Georgia 93

Quarterfinals (Fri. 3/6)

Gm. 5: (8) Bellarmine (13-19, 7-11) 73, (1) Central Arkansas 86
Gm. 6:(5) FGCU 77, (4) Lipscomb (19-13, 12-6) 53
Gm. 7: (10) Stetson (12-21, 7-11) 60, (2) Austin Peay 69
Gm. 8: (6) West Georgia (15-17, 8-10) 63, (3) Queens 71

Semifinals (Sat. 3/7)

Gm. 9: (5) FGCU (16-17, 8-10) vs. (1) Central Arkansas (21-11, 15-3), 5
Home split: Bears 85-83 on 1/1 and Eagles 75-71 (OT) on 2/21.
Gm. 10: (3) Queens (19-13, 13-5) vs. (2) Austin Peay (22-8, 15-3), 7:30*
The Governors won 95-87 in Charlotte on 2/11.

Championship (Sun. 3/8)

Gm. 11: Semifinal winners, 2 (ESPN2)

Mayhem Potential

Data originally posted by Bob Vetrone Jr. on Twitterin 2020 with my own additions for the seasons beyond.

The top two seeds had dominated this event, thanks to the higher seeds being rewarded with home-court advantage up until this year. The No. 1 seed has won eight titles since the NCAA field expanded to 68 in 2011 with the No. 2 claiming a half-dozen in that span—though that includes the 2022 Bellarmine squad that finished second in its division. No. 3 seeds have been shut out, while FGCU won as a 4 in 2016. The Eagles ended up in Dayton for their trouble, following 2015 champ UNF. That Osprey squad was a rare double conference champion assigned to the First Four.

Who knows how things will play out an ASUN Tournament set for what are ostensibly neutral sites.

• 1 seed (8): 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2020, 2021, 2023, 2025
• 2 seed (6): 2013, 2014, 2018, 2019, 2022 (West Division), 2024
• 4 seed (1): 2016

NCAA Seeding Record In The 68-Team Era

Years with an NCAA win are in bold.

• 12 seed (1): 2019
• 13 seed (2); 2011, 2021
• 14 seed (5): 2012, 2014, 2017, 2023, 2025
• 15 seed (3):2013, 2018, 2022
• 16 seed (3): 2015 (First Four), 2016 (First Four), 2024

The highest seed and last NCAA win both belong to Liberty, which is currently a member of Conference USA, as is 2022 regular-season champ and NCAA qualifier Jax State.

The top three ASUN seeds could end up as a 14 in the NCAA bracket, but everyone else is likely to be a 15 or 16, depending on what happens elsewhere.

Last NCAA Tournament Appearances

Lipscomb: 2025 (14 seed, 1st Round)
Stetson: 2024 (16 seed, 1st Round)
FGCU: 2017 (14 seed, 1st Round)
Austin Peay: 2016 (16 seed, 1st Round, OVC member)
North Florida: 2015 (16 seed, First Four)
Eastern Kentucky: 2014 (14 seed, 1st Round, OVC member)
Jacksonville: 1986 (8 seed, 1st Round, Sun Belt member).

Stetson’s trip in 2024 was the Hatters’ first. Central Arkansas and North Alabama have never qualified, though the Bears will have a decent shot as the No. 1 seed and the Lions are in only their fourth season of eligibility.

Bellarmine, the 2022 Tournament champion, was NCAA-eligible for the first time last season. Queens is eligible for the first time in 2026, while West Georgia may have to wait until 2028.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Tyler Herro had 35 points, nine rebounds and nine assists and the Miami Heat snapped the Charlotte Hornets' six-game winning streak with a 128-120 victory Friday night.

Herro was 8 for 10 from 3-point range, including one that broke a 108-all tie with 7:06 to play. That came during a 9-0 run after the Hornets led by two and was essentially the difference in the game.

Bam Adebayo added 24 points and 12 rebounds to help the Heat win their fourth straight game. Jaime Jaquez Jr. had 21 points off the bench. Miami was 18 for 38 (47%) on 3s.

Kon Knueppel scored 27 points for the Hornets, going 6 for 10 behind the arc. Brandon Miller had 22 points and 13 rebounds, while LaMelo Ball scored 21 points but was 7 for 22 from the field.

Charlotte fell back to .500 at 32-32. All the victories during the Hornets' winning streak had been by 15 or more points, tying the 2017-18 Golden State Warriors for the second-longest streak in NBA history.

The first meeting between the teams in four months showed how much things had changed for the Hornets. Miami rang up a franchise-record 53 points in the first quarter of that Nov. 7 game, rolling to a 126-108 victory.

Charlotte had become the team hanging big numbers on opponents and tried to rally behind Knueppel, who hit consecutive 3-pointers to cut it to 120-117. But Herro hit a jumper and Dru Smith had a follow shot to push it back to seven.

The Hornets have another winning streak they will try to extend in their next game. They have won a franchise-record 10 straight on the road and go to Phoenix to begin a four-game trip Sunday.

Up next

Heat: Host Detroit on Sunday.

Hornets: At Phoenix on Sunday to open a four-game trip.

___

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

NEW YORK (AP) — Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin was suspended for five games for slashing Buffalo defenseman Rasmus Dahlin on the head, a punishment that will cost the Penguins forward nearly $160,000, the NHL announced Friday night.

Malkin was assessed a minor penalty for cross-checking, a major penalty for slashing and a game misconduct 35 seconds into the second period of the Penguins' 4-1 loss to the Sabres on Thursday night.

Video showed that Malkin and Dahlin made contact at the side of the Buffalo net. Dahlin cross-checked Malkin, for which he was penalized, and Malkin responded by raising his stick and striking Dahlin on his helmet and shoulder.

The NHL's Department of Player Safety noted that Malkin was not off-balance and the contact was not accidental.

The 39-year-old Malkin has been fined five times and suspended twice previously in his NHL career, one game for high-sticking Philadelphia’s Michael Raffl in February 2019 and four games in April 2022 for cross-checking Nashville’s Mark Borowiecki.

Malkin has 13 goals and 47 points in 46 games this season and 527 goals and 1,393 points in a 20-year NHL career, all in Pittsburgh.

The Penguins are already without captain Sidney Crosby for a minimum of four weeks because of a lower-body injury as the team, currently in second place in the Metropolitan Division, battles for playoff position.

Under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement and, based on his average annual salary, Malkin will forfeit $158,854.15. That money goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.

___

AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl

Five-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Maxx Crosby is heading to the Baltimore Ravens, two people with knowledge of the trade told The Associated Press on Friday night.

Both people spoke on condition of anonymity because the deal can’t be announced until the NFL’s new year starts next week.

The Las Vegas Raiders will receive two first-round picks from the Ravens, including the No. 14 overall pick in next month’s NFL draft, one of the people said.

The 28-year-old Crosby had 10 sacks last season and has reached double digits four times in his seven seasons.

___

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

WOW. Looks like Lamar Jackson was telling us earlier on Friday that a Maxx Crosby trade was coming to his team, the Baltimore Ravens. Because that's what happened hours later.

This ends a saga that could have gone on, perhaps, for longer. But now, the Ravens get themselves one of the NFL's biggest pass-rushing stars, a game-changer who can single-handedly change a game. And the return? Well, it's as expected for a player with that kind of power, and if Baltimore wants to contend after a mediocre year, with one of league's best quarterbacks in Jackson, it should make this move.

As always, we're handing out some trade grades and breaking down the reported deal. Here's all of that below:

Ravens and Raiders trade details

Ravens get: DE Maxx Crosby

Raiders get: A 2026 first-round pick and a 2027 first-round pick

Ravens trade grade

This seems fairly simple. Baltimore was tied for 28th last season with 30 sacks. That's not going to get it done. So the Ravens went out and got a player who had 10 sacks of his own last season and has 69.5 for his career.

That's it! That's how you improve your team with one move. Is it worth giving up TWO future first-rounders? That's what we'll wonder after a team with a two-time MVP under center went 8-9 last year. The assumption is Crosby helps make them a contender again. It's a lot to give up, but that's what teams that want to contend NOW do. GRADE: B

Raiders trade grade

On the other hand, here's a team at the opposite end of contention. They're about to -- presumably -- take QB Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick of the 2026 NFL Draft to become their franchise quarterback. They've got holes to plus all over the lineup on both sides of the ball.

So now, they have two more first-rounders to work with. Given how unhappy Crosby seemed -- and that was fairly public -- they still got a fantastic return. GRADE: A

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Maxx Crosby trade grades for Ravens and Raiders deal

Bayern Munich head coach Vincent Kompany is being patient when it comes to star attacking midfielder Jamal Musiala.

The manager does not want to rush Musiala into doing too much and wants to bring the youngster along slowly following a devastating leg injury suffered last summer at the Club World Cup.

“I’m very very calm regarding Jamal. I don’t read the press a lot, but I read something recently that some are trying to put Jamal in a situation of competition with others. I say: guys keep calm. You saw his injury against Paris, it was very serious. I’m happy that Jamal is back and is having his moments. At some point he’ll be back to his best level and maybe even better,” Kompany said (as captured by @iMiaSanMia).

Kompany is correct — Musiala’s return must be handled correctly and cannot be rushed. It is something that should not be lost on players, fans, or even Musiala himself.

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

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Anthony Alfredo said he isn’t nervous about his sudden assignment to substitute for NASCAR star Alex Bowman at this Sunday’s Straight Talk Wireless 500 at Phoenix Raceway.

Bowman experienced a case of vertigo last weekend during the NASCAR Cup Series event at Circuit of the Americas and drove to the garage in the 71st of 95 laps. Relief driver Myatt Snider, a FOX Sports production assistant who has most recently competed on a part-time basis in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and was making his first competitive experience in a Cup Series event—completed the race for Bowman and brought Hendrick Motorsports a 36th-place finish.

Alfredo, 26, of Ridgefield, Connecticut, said Friday afternoon, a day before qualifying, “I feel prepared, feel comfortable in the car. Everything's how I would like it. I know where everything is that I need to use, as far as being able to operate it and drive properly. So that's got me in a better head space today than, say, earlier in the week. I'm not worried about any of that.”

Much of his comfort level stems from the fact he is a NASCAR Next alumnus who has competed in 210 total races across the three NASCAR touring series, with 43 starts in the Cup Series. Moreover, he’s a simulator driver for Hendrick Motorsports, testing set-ups in simulation to help each of Hendrick’s teams create real-time ones.

“I sit in a dark room with no windows all day during the week,” Alfredo said, “but I choose to do it, because I enjoy it and I like seeing them get better. And I’ve always hoped that one day it could lead to something, maybe not like this, but just help my career get further along. So now I have that opportunity and I don’t want to take it for granted.”

He said it’s “just weird, right? I don’t want to see anyone in the position Alex is in, so it’s hard for me to be excited. That makes it certainly disappointing. A lot of people are asking me how excited I am, and I’m not excited that I have to fill in for someone who’s not able to be in their own car this weekend. But it is of course a huge opportunity for me to go out there and do a good job and maybe turn some heads. But I don’t even feel like I have to prove anything to anybody. I don’t think they would've picked me if they didn’t think I could do it right. So it’s not about that. I think it’s more going out there and just doing what’s asking me and doing a good job behind the wheel filling in.”

Alfredo insisted that this “isn’t an audition,” rather calling it “a one-race operation.”

Hendrick Motorsports President Jeff Andrews said on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio’s On Track program that Bowman has “undergone several rounds of testing to pinpoint exactly what it is. So, the good news is it’s absolutely nothing concussion-related, anything like that, that should have a long-term effect. We’re supporting him as he goes down the right path and sees the right people to get himself better. That’s certainly our first priority, the health and safety of Alex Bowman, not only in one of our race cars but his personal health as a whole. We’ll support him however long this takes, and that seat will be ready for him when he’s ready to get back in that car.”

As for Bowman, Andrews said what happened at COTA was “very odd,” that it came without any “indication prior to the race. Several of us talked to Alex for quite a while, not only through the weekend but then again on Sunday. So, at some point during the race, this started to set in with him and became progressively worse.

“I want to say one thing about Alex Bowman,” Andrews said. “We have watched him struggle his way through and fight his way through some race weekends when he was not feeling well and in a lot of pain, and this certainly was another level beyond that, in terms of when it starts to affect your equilibrium and nausea that goes with that. I think he was willing to fight through that, but when it starts to affect your vision, that’s when the team said it was time to get out of the car, which absolutely killed him and crushed him.”

Bowman has had past health issues, but Andrews said this bout with vertigo “really has kind of come from out of nowhere, so to speak. Alex has been seen and treated for some back and neck pain in the past, like I think most of these guys and ladies that strap into these stock cars and cinch those belts do after a fairly long career. But nothing out of the ordinary. Our staff hadn’t been treating him any differently from another driver or athlete.” He said, “[I] don’t really have answers right now, because it is so early on. I do know that he’s working super-hard to get through this. He’s got a great team of specialists that are looking into this and looking after him.”

After 298 days out of action, superstar Jayson Tatum returned to the starting lineup for the Boston Celtics, and after shaking off the rust, he appeared to be his normal self. The Boston Celtics welcomed the Dallas Mavericks and No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg to TD Garden, in a moment that will go down in franchise history as Tatum returned to a team that is currently No. 2 in the Eastern Conference standings.

Dallas played well in the first half on the second night of a back-to-back, but once the Celtics, and Tatum, found their rhythm, they took control and never looked back. Six players scored in double figures for Boston, as Tatum flirted with a triple-double in Boston's 20-point victory.

Here's a quick recap of Boston's win:

Final score: Boston Celtics 120, Dallas Mavericks 100

Keys to the game:

Jayson Tatum's second half: In his first game action in nearly 300 days, Tatum had no minutes restrictions on him, but did show some rust until the final minute of the first half. He'd get his first points on a put back slam late in the second quarter and ended the first half with five straight points. Tatum built off that first half ending by coming out aggressive at several different levels, scoring in a multitude of ways, and cleaned up on the glass with 12 rebounds.

Balanced effort: The aforementioned six players in double figures showed that this Celtics team continued on with business as usual even with Tatum's return to the lineup. A lot of outside noise focused on how Boston would operate between Tatum and Jaylen Brown, along with the other players who have stepped up this season, and the team didn't miss a beat. Neemias Queta had a very quiet, yet impressive showing of 16 points and 15 rebounds in the win as well.

Luka Garza: Veteran big man Nikola Vucevic, who was acquired at the trade deadline from Chicago, was expected to have a big role for the Celtics down the stretch, but suffered a fractured right ring finger, forcing Boston to lean on Luka Garza off the bench. Garza delivered, putting up 10 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 blocks off the bench, but it was his energy and presence that really seemed to help Boston take control in the second half.

Highlight of the game: Jayson Tatum gets his first points in return on put back slam

GO GET IT JT 💪💪💪 pic.twitter.com/Tf8rLI6zcE

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) March 7, 2026

What's next: vs. Cavaliers, Sunday, March 8, 1:00PM ET on ABC

Two of the top teams in the Eastern Conference will close out their season series against one another in a matinee matchup on national TV. Boston has won the first two meetings against Cleveland by a combined 22 points, but their last game came down to the wire with the Celtics picking up a 2-point victory. It'll be interesting to see how Boston chooses to operate and manage Jayson Tatum in his second game, after he played 27 minutes against Dallas in season debut on Friday. Cleveland has been without superstar Donovan Mitchell, and his status is worth monitoring, although he participated fully in practice on Friday.

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This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Jayson Tatum drops double-double in return and blowout win vs. Dallas

The Chicago Bulls were home to arguably the most influential basketball player of all time, and possibly the greatest ever, Michael Jordan. He put the franchise on the global map and made millions of fans around the world wear his jersey, and with it the iconic Bulls colors. But even though the team has not reached the same heights since Jordan’s era, another superstar once carried the city on his back and inspired the community in a very different way.

Derrick Rose lifted the Second City’s spirits to new heights. Before injuries derailed his prime, he was widely considered the best player in the league not named LeBron James, even winning the MVP in 2011.

But who had a better impact on the city of Chicago? Jordan or Rose. The easy answer would be Jordan, but that would be overlooking one huge factor. Shaquille O’Neal asked this question to his old teammate and fellow Chicago native, Dwayne Wade, on the latest edition of his podcast.

The Diesel brought up how Kendrick Perkins and Draymond Green mentioned that Rose was more significant and wondered if D-Wade had any insight. “Community impact. He’s from Chicago. So it’s different from that standpoint,”answeredWade. “He’s a kid from nothing from Chicago.”

Wade’s response actually resonated with Shaq, who was initially confused by the comparison. “His story, everyone in Chicago can resonate with his story. Everybody can’t resonate with Michael Jordan’s story. Michael Jordan is a myth, he’s a legend, he’s an icon. But Derrick Rose means more to the DNA of Chicago because he’s one of them.”

And it’s very true. As someone who lived in Chicago for over a decade, Jordan was God, but D-Rose is family. There was an energy to the city that was hard to describe. His MVP season felt lie watching a little brother hit the walk-off home run in the Little League World Series. Rose’s success was Chicago’s success.

However, Shaq wanted the question answered from a basketball perspective, as if not hearing Jordan’s name at the top of a list broke something in his brain. “In the overall scheme of things Michael Jordan. But for the kids of Chicago, it would be Derrick Rose,” fired back Wade. Again, Wade knows, he had a similar upbringing.

The sad part of the story is that Rose’s momentum was halted by the toll injuries took on his body. Even after that, though, he still showed flashes of brilliance. One of the clearest examples came in the 2020-21 season with the Knicks, when he finished third in Sixth Man of the Year voting. It was a long way from his MVP prime, but it was a reminder of the talent that once defined him.

The beautiful part is that Chicago never forgot him. His No. 1 was retired earlier this season, and the ceremony felt just as monumental and meaningful as when MJ’s jersey was lifted into the rafters. That is exactly where it belongs. Right next to the legends who helped put the franchise on the map.

Rose will never be Jordan, and Jordan will never be Rose. Each man deserves to be celebrated for what he brought to the game and to the city. And while Jordan’s greatness echoes across the world, it was D-Rose who made the United Center feel special again for Chicago.

The post Dwyane Wade Opens Up on How Derrick Rose’s Impact in Chicago Is Different From Michael Jordan’s appeared first on The SportsRush.

No. 19 Tennessee (11-3) opened a three-game nonconference series against Wright State (4-7) on Friday at Lindsey Nelson Stadium.

Tegan Kuhns started for Tennessee and pitched five innings. He totaled seven strikeouts and 78 pitches, including 60 strikeouts, against 22 batters. Kuhns allowed eight hits, three runs (three earned), one home run, two doubles and zero walks.

Brandon Arvidson relieved Kuhns and pitched three innings. He totaled five strikeouts and 54 pitches (34 strikes). Brady Frederick also pitched one inning of relief, recording two strikeouts.

Tennessee's offense recorded six hits, including a home run from Blake Grimmer.

Manny Marin hit a walk-off single in the ninth inning, scoring Garrett Wright.

Due to expected inclement weather, Saturday's Game 2 between Tennessee and Wright State will start at 3 p.m. EST.

"Due to expected rain and inclement weather in the Knoxville area on Saturday evening, first pitch for game two of Tennessee baseball’s weekend series against Wright State has been moved up to 3 p.m. EST on Saturday afternoon," Tennessee announced. "Start times for Friday’s series opener (6:30 p.m. EST) and Sunday’s series finale (1 p.m. EDT) remain the same."

More: Tennessee-Wright State baseball series updated game time

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This article originally appeared on Vols Wire: Manny Marin hits walk-off for Vols in Game 1 against Wright State

The Las Vegas Raiders made a splash trading edge rusher Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens after a week of trade speculation.

The Raiders reportedly were seeking two first-round picks for Crosby, similar to what the Dallas Cowboys received for Maxx Crosby, and, in the end, the Ravens were willing to pay the price. Baltimore is sending 2026 and 2027 first-rounders to Las Vegas in a blockbuster trade ahead of free agency.

Crosby signed a three-year, $109.5 million extension with the Raiders last March, which made him the highest-paid pass rusher in the league at the time.

Crosby spent his first seven seasons with the Raiders, where he earned five Pro Bowl nods and totaled 69.5 career sacks. In three of the last four years, Crosby has totaled double-digit sacks and made life difficult on opposing quarterbacks.

Now, the Raiders and Crosby start anew while headed in opposite directions. Las Vegas is rebuilding, where they're expected to draft quarterback Fernando Mendoza first overall, and they now have extra first-round pick in the next two NFL drafts.

This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: Raiders trade Maxx Crosby to Ravens for two first-round picks

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Queensland’s tourism sector has recorded a milestone achievement, securing its most significant triumph at the Australian Tourism Awards since 2022. The state’s operators celebrated an impressive overall tally of twelve accolades, including seven gold, two silver, and three bronze awards. This remarkable success has been viewed as a strong endorsement of the Crisafulli Government’s Destination 2045 strategy, a long-term plan designed to re-establish Queensland as Australia’s premier tourism destination.

The awards, hosted by the Australian Tourism Council, represent the highest level of national recognition within the industry. They acknowledged outstanding performance across a range of categories including events, destinations, accommodation, and unique visitor experiences. Queensland’s success was interpreted as a clear reflection of the renewed focus and investment the state has placed in developing world-class tourism products after years of underperformance.

Reviving Growth After a Decade of Decline

The latest recognition has arrived at a pivotal moment for the state’s visitor economy. Queensland had faced a decade-long decline in tourism growth, attributed to earlier underinvestment and limited policy action. With the launch of Destination 2045, the Crisafulli Government has introduced a comprehensive strategy that firmly places tourism and hospitality at the core of Queensland’s economic revitalization agenda.

This revitalized focus aims to not only restore but elevate Queensland’s global positioning by supporting operators through infrastructure improvements, innovation funding, and destination marketing. The results seen at the national awards are being celebrated across the tourism community as evidence that a sustained turnaround is well underway.

Recognizing Excellence Across Diverse Categories

The 2026 Australian Tourism Awards ceremony showcased Queensland’s breadth of talent and tourism diversity. Among the state’s top performers were iconic experiences, boutique resorts, and innovative operations that have demonstrated creativity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

The seven gold winners included the Abbey Medieval Festival in the Festivals and Events category and Cape York Peninsula Lodge for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experiences. Beenleigh Artisan Distillery was honored in Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries, while the BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park and Motel triumphed under Caravan and Holiday Parks. Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort received the award for 4–4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation, while Turtle Sands Nature Resort was recognized as the nation’s leading New Tourism Business. Bay Island Lifestyle secured gold for Excellence in Accessible Tourism, a reflection of Queensland’s growing focus on inclusive and accessible travel.

Silver awards went to the Cairns Convention Centre for Business Event Venues and Fun Over 50 Holidays – Immersive Tours and Adventures in the Major Tour and Transport Operators category. The bronze winners included Fun Over 50 Holidays for Ecotourism, St George Region Explore Centre for Visitor Information Services, and The Reef House Adults Retreat for 5 Star Luxury Accommodation.

Together, these twelve award-winning organizations underscore Queensland’s ability to deliver outstanding travel experiences that cater to wide-ranging traveler interests, from luxury stays and cultural heritage to sustainability and local adventure.

Destination 2045: The Blueprint for a Tourism Renaissance

Queensland’s renewed success in the tourism industry has been attributed to the Destination 2045 plan — a strategic long-term vision to strengthen the state’s standing as Australia’s tourism capital. The plan focuses on sustainable development, diversified tourism offerings, and the creation of premium products designed to attract both domestic and international visitors.

Under this framework, major investments are being directed toward enhancing visitor experiences, improving accessibility, and supporting the growth of environmentally responsible tourism enterprises. By encouraging public-private partnerships and empowering regional operators, the strategy aims to ensure sustainable growth that benefits local communities and the state’s overall economy.

The strong showing at the national awards is therefore seen not simply as recognition of individual businesses, but as a collective reflection of Queensland’s transformation into a destination defined by innovation, inclusivity, and global competitiveness.

Endorsements Reflect Industry-Wide Confidence

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell described the results as a defining achievement for Queensland’s tourism operators and the state’s global brand identity. He emphasized that the awards demonstrate the strength, resilience, and creativity of Queensland’s tourism businesses and acknowledge their contribution to the state’s economy and reputation.

Minister Powell also expressed that Queensland’s success reflects the hard work and determination of operators who continuously deliver experiences unavailable elsewhere. Through the Destination 2045 agenda, the state is not only lifting standards but setting new national benchmarks for quality and excellence.

Supporting this sentiment, Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) CEO Natassia Wheeler highlighted that the Australian Tourism Awards remain the pinnacle of national recognition for tourism excellence. She commended all Queensland winners and finalists for their professionalism and ability to represent the state proudly at the national level. According to her, the seven national gold awards illustrate Queensland’s depth, diversity, and leadership within the Australian tourism landscape.

These sentiments underscore that Queensland’s achievements are not isolated wins but the result of a deliberate and coordinated approach to workforce development, destination branding, and tourism investment.

The Sunshine State Reclaims Its Tourism Crown

The awards night has been framed as a celebration not only of operational excellence but also of the spirit that drives the Sunshine State’s tourism sector. Following years of underinvestment and stagnation, Queensland’s resurgence symbolizes more than recovery — it represents the reassertion of its rightful place at the forefront of Australian tourism.

Each winning operator, from the historic Abbey Medieval Festival to the eco-conscious Turtle Sands Nature Resort, contributes to defining what makes Queensland unique: authentic storytelling, natural beauty, and hospitality that resonates with travelers from around the world. As these operators continue to innovate, they reinforce Queensland’s identity as the Home of the Holiday — a destination that embodies world-class experiences and an irresistibly warm welcome.

Setting the Standard for the Future

With its 2026 achievements, Queensland has signaled to the rest of Australia that the state’s tourism revitalization is well underway. The Crisafulli Government’s results-driven focus on the tourism economy appears to be paying dividends, creating strong industry confidence and renewed investor interest.

The ongoing implementation of the Destination 2045 strategy is expected to sustain this momentum for decades, paving the way for continuous growth in visitor numbers, higher international visibility, and more diversified tourism opportunities.

By combining visionary leadership, strategic investment, and the unmatched passion of its operators, Queensland has once again demonstrated that it stands firmly as the nation’s tourism leader — and a destination where every visitor can truly experience the best of Australia.

Bulgaria’s tourism sector is poised for dynamic growth in 2026 after the country adopted the euro, formally becoming the 21st member of the euro area on 1 January 2026. This change simplifies travel budgeting for international visitors and aligns pricing with other major European destinations. The transition to the euro is expected to strengthen Bulgaria’s competitiveness across cultural, coastal, and mountain tourism markets, government reports confirm.

Bulgaria’s Ministry of Tourism says the sector is well prepared for the currency transition and ready to support expanded visitor numbers. Authorities note that easier payments, transparent pricing, and predictable costs will benefit both tourists and tourism businesses. The government’s national information campaign highlighted tourism as one of the most prepared sectors for euro adoption, citing outreach events held across key regions.

Tourism officials expect the euro to make Bulgaria more appealing to European visitors as part of the 2026 season. The Tourism Minister said the euro adoption will help project a stronger image for Bulgaria and make the country more competitive in the European travel market. Experts say that simplifying currency use removes a common barrier for visitors, particularly from euro‑using nations.

The Bulgarian government’s official tourism strategy emphasises cultural and natural tourism, including promotion of UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Pirin National Park and the Srebarna Nature Reserve. These destinations remain pillars of Bulgaria’s appeal, drawing travellers seeking heritage and ecology experiences. Government sources indicate ongoing efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure to support balanced year‑round visitation.

Integration into the eurozone follows Bulgaria’s entry into the Schengen Area in 2025, which removed many internal border controls with neighbouring EU states. This combination of easier movement and common currency use is positioned to boost short‑distance travel from neighbouring EU markets, according to official tourism analysis.

Tourism officials have also highlighted investment guidelines aimed at supporting sustainable tourism growth. National development programmes outline plans to position Bulgaria as a year‑round destination with a clear identity based on authentic culture and natural beauty. These strategic goals align with European Union principles for tourism policy and competition.

Government campaigns emphasise that the presence of the euro will reduce hidden costs related to currency exchange and simplify budgeting for travellers. Tourism information centres in Bansko, Burgas, and other certified locations offer assistance to visitors, providing destination details and guidance on local experiences.

Official sources also highlight Bulgaria’s diverse tourism offerings. Coastal beaches, mountain resorts, rural tourism, and spa destinations are part of the national tourism portfolio promoted on government‑linked platforms. Each segment caters to a range of visitor interests, from cultural heritage to wellness and outdoor pursuits.

The Ministry of Tourism has underscored its mission to pursue transparent tourism policies that protect public interest while boosting Bulgaria’s profile as a preferred tourist destination in Central and Eastern Europe. These policies aim to enhance visitor experiences, expand international reach, and maintain sustainable growth.

Industry experts cite the euro adoption as a key factor for tourism planners and tour operators, who anticipate higher bookings and more predictable travel planning compared with previous years. Official economic assessments also suggest that easier currency use could translate into heightened investment in coastal and urban tourism infrastructure.

Bulgaria’s entry into the euro area has attracted attention beyond government tourism circles. Independent economic commentary notes that adopting the euro marks a significant milestone in the country’s European integration, reflecting compliance with EU fiscal and monetary criteria built up since Bulgaria joined the EU in 2007.

Despite broader discussions about economic impacts, tourism authorities maintain that the focus for 2026 remains on visitor convenience and the expansion of Bulgaria’s appeal as a cultural destination. Promoters emphasise the diversity of experiences available, from heritage cities to natural reserves and seasonal events across regions.

Looking ahead, tourism officials plan to reinforce messaging around Bulgaria’s unique offerings and accessibility. This includes promoting internationally recognised sites and developing experiences that resonate with a global audience. With the euro in place, Bulgaria expects to benefit from clearer price signals and a more intuitive travel experience.

As the tourism year unfolds, Bulgaria’s official channels anticipate that streamlined currency arrangements will help the country further carve out its place on the European tourism map, attracting visitors who appreciate cultural richness, natural landscapes, and ease of travel.

In summary, Bulgaria’s official government sources frame the 2026 adoption of the euro as a transformative moment for tourism, aimed at enhancing competitiveness, simplifying travel logistics, and supporting sustainable growth of visitor markets across the country.

LATAM Airlines Group is set to make a bold move in the aviation world, introducing its highly anticipated long-haul premium economy product, Premium Comfort, aimed at reshaping the passenger experience on international flights. The new cabin class will offer a significant upgrade in terms of comfort, service, and technology, catering to the growing demand for more accessible luxury in air travel. The launch of Premium Comfort, scheduled for 2027, is part of LATAM’s ambitious strategy to elevate its service offering and compete with global airlines that have already embraced premium economy as a staple product on long-haul routes.

A Step Forward in Passenger Comfort: What Premium Comfort Offers

In a market where passengers are increasingly seeking a blend of comfort and affordability, LATAM Airlines’ new Premium Comfort class promises to deliver just that. Positioned between the Business Class and standard Economy Class, this cabin will offer a premium travel experience that doesn’t come with the hefty price tag of a fully-fledged business class seat.

Premium Comfort will be available on LATAM’s fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which will undergo significant upgrades to incorporate the new cabin. The 787’s modern design and fuel-efficient engines make it the ideal platform for this new product, designed to enhance the flight experience for passengers on long-haul routes to key global destinations.

LATAM’s investment in this new cabin is substantial, with over $100 million allocated to the development and integration of Premium Comfort. This includes the installation of wider, more comfortable seats, better legroom, and additional features that enhance passenger comfort during the flight. Passengers can expect more reclining space, creating a more relaxing environment for rest during long journeys.

Innovative Features of Premium Comfort Class

The Premium Comfort cabin will be equipped with several key features designed to enhance the overall passenger experience. These include:

• More Spacious Seating: Passengers will enjoy wider seats with greater pitch, allowing for more personal space and comfort.
• Enhanced In-Flight Entertainment: Each seat will be equipped with 16-inch high-definition screens, offering a range of entertainment options, including the latest movies, TV shows, and music.
• Power and Connectivity: Passengers will have access to USB-C charging ports, ensuring that their devices stay powered throughout the flight. Additionally, Bluetooth connectivity will be available for wireless headphone use.
• Superior Dining Experience: Premium Comfort will also offer a curated culinary experience, allowing passengers to indulge in high-quality meals during the flight, elevating the traditional in-flight dining experience.

By introducing Premium Comfort, LATAM aims to provide travelers with an upgraded experience that is both affordable and luxurious, a combination that has proven to be increasingly popular in the global aviation industry.

Strategic Positioning: LATAM’s Long-Term Vision

LATAM Airlines’ decision to introduce a dedicated long-haul premium economy product marks a pivotal moment in the airline’s journey. This move aligns with a broader trend in the aviation industry, where more airlines are introducing premium economy to cater to the growing demand for a more comfortable flying experience that doesn’t necessarily require the high cost of business class.

According to industry experts, LATAM’s investment in Premium Comfort reflects its strategy to differentiate itself in the competitive South American and global aviation markets. As more international travelers seek comfort and convenience at a reasonable price point, LATAM is positioning itself as a leader in providing an elevated yet affordable long-haul travel experience.

The introduction of Premium Comfort also enables LATAM to expand its appeal to business travelers, luxury-seeking tourists, and families looking for more space and better amenities during their flights. By tapping into this increasingly lucrative segment, LATAM aims to build long-term customer loyalty and solidify its place as a top choice for international travelers.

LATAM’s Investment in Its Fleet and Customer Experience

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet is at the heart of LATAM’s modernization efforts, with the airline investing heavily in the fleet to meet both environmental and passenger satisfaction goals. The Dreamliner is renowned for its fuel efficiency, making it an environmentally friendly option for long-haul travel, which aligns with LATAM’s broader sustainability goals.

The Premium Comfort offering will be available on select long-haul routes, initially focusing on key markets in North America, Europe, and Asia. As LATAM continues to invest in its fleet and cabin upgrades, it is expected that this new class will be rolled out across additional routes as the airline expands its Premium Comfort product offering.

What This Means for Long-Haul Travelers

Premium Comfort represents an exciting new option for those who want more comfort and luxury on long-haul flights without the cost of business class. This cabin class is a significant step forward for LATAM, especially in its ability to provide an affordable yet comfortable long-haul travel option that can compete with major global carriers. Passengers flying with LATAM on these routes will benefit from an upgraded flying experience that combines the best of both worlds: luxury and value.

Conclusion: A Bold Step Toward Enhancing Air Travel in 2027

LATAM Airlines’ introduction of Premium Comfort signals a bold new chapter for the airline and its passengers. As the airline prepares for the 2027 launch, the focus will be on creating a more comfortable, high-quality flying experience for travelers who want more than just basic economy. With a modernized fleet, strategic investment, and a focus on customer satisfaction, LATAM is positioning itself as a serious player in the premium economy market.

Travelers looking for more comfort on long-haul flights can look forward to the arrival of Premium Comfort in 2027. LATAM Airlines is set to make a significant mark in the industry, providing a fresh perspective on how premium economy should be done — and it’s all happening soon.

Thailand is shifting the focus of its tourism in 2026, reimagining luxury travel with a unique wellness-driven strategy aimed at rejuvenating both body and soul. As part of its new tourism push, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is introducing the concept of “Healing is the New Luxury,” positioning the kingdom as a top destination for travellers seeking wellness, culture, and personal growth. This revamped tourism approach seeks to respond to a growing global demand for travel experiences that focus on health, healing, and spiritual enrichment, rather than just luxury for the sake of material indulgence.

Rather than simply focusing on traditional luxury offerings such as five-star hotels and exclusive shopping experiences, Thailand is now embracing wellness as the new standard of high-end travel. The initiative encourages visitors to explore the country through an immersive journey that blends wellness, Thai culture, nutritious gastronomy, and holistic experiences. This strategic shift aims to attract a new generation of travellers who prioritise emotional wellbeing, physical rejuvenation, and cultural connection.

One of the cornerstones of this new approach is gastronomy, where Thailand’s world-famous cuisine is not only promoted for its bold flavours but also for its health benefits. TAT is encouraging travellers to experience food as a form of healing by offering nutrition-based culinary tours across the country. These tours feature dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, showcasing regional specialties known for their wellness properties. Visitors can enjoy farm-to-table meals that incorporate traditional healing herbs and spices, promoting overall health and vitality. The farm-to-table movement is a key component of this vision, where visitors are invited to connect with local communities through food, enhancing the cultural exchange.

In addition to food, the wellness aspect of the campaign is being highlighted through active tourism experiences. From yoga and meditation retreats to Muay Thai boxing, Thailand is positioning itself as a hub for those seeking more than just a vacation. Tourists are encouraged to engage in physical activities that promote both mental and physical wellbeing, allowing them to reconnect with their inner selves. Many of these experiences are integrated into Thailand’s natural landscapes, where visitors can practice mindfulness in serene surroundings, such as Phuket’s beaches, Chiang Mai’s mountains, and Khao Yai’s forests.

To further amplify the allure of wellness tourism, Thailand is tapping into its rich cultural heritage. Traditional practices such as Thai massage, herbal therapies, and wellness spas are now being marketed as central elements of the luxury tourism experience. These healing practices are embedded in Thailand’s centuries-old traditions, offering tourists a chance to immerse themselves in authentic therapies that not only restore physical health but also promote mental clarity and relaxation. These services are available in spas and wellness retreats across the country, giving visitors the opportunity to indulge in holistic treatments that address the body’s needs on a deeper level.

The Thai government’s support of this wellness-focused initiative aligns with its broader tourism objectives. According to government reports, wellness tourism has been one of the fastest-growing segments of the global tourism industry, with travellers increasingly seeking experiences that focus on health, mindfulness, and environmental sustainability. With the wellness market projected to grow at a steady rate, Thailand is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, drawing both international tourists and regional visitors looking for rejuvenating travel options.

For Thailand’s tourism sector, this initiative represents an opportunity to not only boost tourism revenue but also foster long-term relationships with high-value tourists. By focusing on experiential travel, the country aims to create lasting memories for visitors, ensuring that their experiences resonate long after they return home. The concept of healing as luxury ties directly into a broader shift in travel preferences, as people increasingly desire meaningful and enriching travel experiences over more superficial pursuits.

Thailand’s “Healing is the New Luxury” strategy is a bold move that redefines what luxury travel can be in the 21st century. By combining wellness, culture, gastronomy, and sustainability, Thailand offers travellers a chance to rejuvenate not just their bodies, but also their minds and spirits. This forward-thinking approach makes Thailand an even more appealing destination for travellers who are looking for transformative and meaningful experiences. With the government’s strong backing and the country’s rich cultural offerings, Thailand is well on its way to becoming the world’s premier destination for wellness and healing tourism.

Island destinations across the Philippines, Indonesia, French Polynesia, Maldives, Seychelles, Zanzibar, Bahamas, St. Lucia and the Galápagos Islands are emerging as the centerpiece of global tourism strategies for 2026 as government tourism agencies promote new island-hopping routes designed to combine ecological preservation with immersive travel experiences.

Official tourism platforms from destinations across the Asia-Pacific, the Indian Ocean and the Americas are encouraging travelers to explore multi-island itineraries that balance environmental protection with cultural engagement and marine conservation. These new routes reflect a growing trend in international tourism toward eco-luxury, regenerative travel and low-impact island exploration.

According to official tourism development initiatives and national travel portals, island destinations worldwide are reimagining their tourism models in response to rising demand for nature-based travel experiences. Many governments have introduced updated visitor policies, environmental protections and new transport systems to support sustainable island-hopping tourism.

A Global Shift Toward “Island-Hopping 2.0”

Tourism ministries and national travel authorities are promoting what industry observers describe as Island-Hopping 2.0, a model that encourages travelers to explore several islands within a region rather than concentrating tourism in a single destination.

Government tourism bodies emphasize that this approach distributes tourism revenue more evenly, protects fragile ecosystems from overcrowding and allows visitors to experience diverse cultures, landscapes and marine environments within a single journey.

Island tourism authorities across Asia, Africa and the Americas have introduced improved ferry networks, domestic flights, marine protection zones and visitor management policies to support this travel trend.

The strategy also aligns with broader global tourism priorities, including marine conservation, coral reef restoration and sustainable coastal development.

Asia-Pacific: Coral Triangle Adventures and Volcanic Island Routes

The Asia-Pacific region remains one of the most dynamic areas for island tourism development, particularly within the Coral Triangle, a marine region widely recognized for its extraordinary biodiversity.

Tourism authorities across Southeast Asia and the Pacific are increasingly focusing on sustainable tourism models that protect coral reef ecosystems while offering visitors access to some of the most dramatic island landscapes in the world.

Philippines: Palawan and the New Frontier of Island Tourism

The Philippines Department of Tourism has highlighted Palawan as a central destination for island-hopping travel in 2026. Government travel portals identify the province as one of the country’s premier ecological destinations, known for limestone karst formations, emerald lagoons and protected marine sanctuaries.

Official tourism itineraries recommend routes connecting El Nido and Coron, two island clusters that feature towering limestone cliffs rising above turquoise waters. These areas are home to coral reefs, marine wildlife and protected lagoons managed under national environmental regulations.

Beyond Palawan, the Philippines tourism authority is promoting additional island destinations to diversify visitor flows.

Siargao, internationally known for its surf culture, offers mangrove forests and island-ringed lagoons, while Boracay has undergone a government-led environmental restoration program that introduced strict sustainability measures to protect its famous white-sand beaches.

The Department of Tourism has positioned these destinations as examples of responsible island tourism, emphasizing environmental regulation and community involvement.

Indonesia: Komodo National Park and Raja Ampat

Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy continues to promote the “10 New Balis” initiative, which aims to expand tourism beyond the island of Bali by developing other destinations across the Indonesian archipelago.

Among the most prominent island-hopping routes is Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for volcanic islands, coral reefs and the endemic Komodo dragon.

The park includes several rugged islands surrounded by some of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems in the world. Tourism authorities have introduced strict visitor management policies to protect fragile habitats and maintain ecological balance.

Further east, Raja Ampat has become internationally recognized as one of the world’s most biologically diverse marine regions. Located in Indonesia’s West Papua province, the archipelago includes hundreds of small islands surrounded by coral reefs that support thousands of marine species.

Government tourism strategies emphasize controlled visitor numbers, marine conservation and sustainable community tourism to preserve the region’s unique environment.

French Polynesia: The Society Islands Circuit

In the South Pacific, French Polynesia continues to attract travelers seeking dramatic volcanic islands surrounded by coral lagoons.

Tourism authorities promote a multi-island route through the Society Islands, typically beginning in Tahiti and continuing to Moorea, Huahine and Bora Bora.

These islands are known as “high islands,” characterized by steep volcanic mountains rising above ring-shaped coral reefs. Each island offers a distinct cultural and natural environment while remaining accessible through short inter-island flights and ferries.

Official travel guides recommend a ten-day itinerary that allows visitors to experience Polynesian culture, lagoon ecosystems and traditional communities while traveling between islands.

The Indian Ocean: Atolls, Granite Islands and Spice Routes

Island tourism in the Indian Ocean is also evolving rapidly as governments encourage visitors to explore multiple islands within each destination.

Tourism authorities across the region are expanding transportation networks and developing sustainable tourism policies to protect coral reefs and marine habitats.

Maldives: Cultural Island Tourism Beyond Resort Atolls

The Maldives, long known for its luxury resort islands, has introduced a new tourism model centered on guesthouse tourism on inhabited islands.

According to national tourism development strategies, travelers in 2026 are increasingly exploring local islands such as Maafushi and Dhiffushi, where visitors can experience Maldivian culture while staying in smaller community-run accommodations.

This approach allows tourism revenue to reach local communities while reducing pressure on traditional private-resort islands.

The Maldives government continues to promote environmental initiatives focused on coral reef conservation and marine protection as tourism expands.

Seychelles: The Inner Island Circuit

The Seychelles Tourism Board promotes a classic island-hopping route through the archipelago’s Inner Islands, linking Mahé, Praslin and La Digue.

Mahé serves as the country’s primary gateway island, while Praslin is home to the Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for the rare coco-de-mer palm.

La Digue, a smaller island known for granite boulders and pristine beaches, offers a quieter atmosphere and slower pace of travel.

To encourage multi-island tourism, the government has streamlined ferry bookings and inter-island flight services through centralized travel systems.

Authorities have also introduced travel policies designed to protect ecosystems while supporting sustainable tourism growth.

Zanzibar: The Spice Archipelago Experience

Off the coast of Tanzania, the Zanzibar archipelago is positioning itself as an emerging island-hopping destination in East Africa.

Tourism authorities highlight the connection between Unguja Island, home to the historic Stone Town, and Pemba Island, known for its lush vegetation, clove plantations and deep-sea diving sites.

The region’s tourism strategy promotes cultural exploration alongside marine tourism, combining historical architecture, spice plantations and coral reef ecosystems.

Government policies have also introduced environmental levies aimed at funding coral reef restoration and marine conservation.

The Americas: Coral Cays and Volcanic Island Landscapes

Across the Western Hemisphere, island tourism continues to evolve as governments encourage travelers to explore lesser-known islands beyond traditional cruise routes.

Island destinations across the Caribbean and Pacific emphasize nature-based tourism and marine conservation.

Bahamas: The Exuma Cays Adventure

The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism has organized the country into sixteen distinct island destinations, encouraging travelers to explore beyond the main islands.

Among the most prominent island-hopping routes are the Exuma Cays, a chain of more than 300 small islands and cays known for sapphire-blue waters, marine parks and underwater caves.

The region has become famous for unique attractions such as swimming pigs at Big Major Cay, as well as snorkeling and sailing experiences across protected marine areas.

Government tourism strategies include increased domestic flight connections and ferry services between islands to support multi-destination travel.

St. Lucia and the Grenadines: Caribbean Volcanic Landscapes

In the eastern Caribbean, St. Lucia stands out for its dramatic volcanic landscape dominated by the twin Piton mountains, which are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Tourism authorities highlight the island’s Soufrière region as a central attraction featuring rainforests, geothermal springs and coral reefs.

The island’s location also makes it a strategic starting point for multi-island sailing routes connecting Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, offering travelers the opportunity to explore several Caribbean nations within a single voyage.

Galápagos Islands: Conservation-First Island Tourism

The Galápagos Islands of Ecuador represent one of the world’s most carefully regulated tourism environments.

Managed by the Galápagos National Park Directorate and Ecuador’s Ministry of Tourism, the islands are internationally recognized for their extraordinary wildlife and ecological significance.

Tourism authorities encourage land-based island hopping, allowing visitors to stay on islands such as Santa Cruz, Isabela and San Cristóbal rather than relying solely on large cruise vessels.

This approach reduces environmental pressure while enabling travelers to explore multiple ecosystems across the archipelago.

Strict visitor regulations remain in place to protect fragile habitats and endemic wildlife species.

Infrastructure and Sustainability Driving Island Tourism Growth

Across all regions, governments are investing in infrastructure improvements to support island-hopping tourism.

These include expanded ferry networks, improved regional airports, digital booking systems and marine conservation programs.

Sustainability remains a central theme across these initiatives, with many destinations introducing policies to protect coral reefs, regulate visitor numbers and reduce environmental impact.

Tourism authorities emphasize that responsible travel practices will play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological integrity of island destinations as global tourism continues to grow.

A New Era of Multi-Island Travel

Island destinations worldwide are increasingly collaborating to promote interconnected travel experiences that allow visitors to explore multiple islands while supporting local economies.

The island-hopping model also reflects changing traveler preferences, particularly among visitors seeking immersive nature experiences, cultural authenticity and sustainable tourism.

With government tourism bodies expanding routes across the Asia-Pacific, Indian Ocean and Caribbean regions, the concept of exploring multiple islands in a single journey is expected to remain a defining trend in global tourism throughout 2026 and beyond.

Delta, American, United, and JetBlue are locked in an intense battle to dominate the premium economy segment in 2026, reshaping the future of air travel for long-haul passengers. As airlines strive to offer the most spacious and comfortable seats, travellers can expect more legroom, better recline, and enhanced amenities that go beyond the traditional economy experience. In an era where comfort is just as important as affordability, these leading U.S. carriers are pulling out all the stops, investing heavily in upgraded cabins to provide a luxurious experience without the hefty price tag of business class. With demand for premium economy soaring, particularly on international routes, this competitive race not only promises to change the way we travel but also signals a broader shift in the airline industry’s focus on improving the passenger experience. As travellers seek more value, U.S. airlines are rising to the occasion, offering enhanced services that will have lasting impacts on tourism, hospitality, and the broader travel ecosystem. The question is: which airline will come out on top, and how will this new era of air travel reshape the future for both passengers and the global tourism industry?

Delta, American, United & JetBlue Compete for the Best Premium Economy Seats in 2026 – How This Could Change Travel Forever!

In 2026, the competition for premium economy seats is hotter than ever, with leading U.S. airlines like Delta, American, United, and JetBlue all vying to provide the most spacious and comfortable long-haul experience for travelers. As air travel rebounds and passengers look for more value without splurging on business class, the airlines are responding by upgrading their premium economy cabins. These efforts are poised to shape the future of air travel, offering a new level of comfort and convenience for tourists and business travelers alike.

Delta Airlines: Premium Select – A Game-Changer for Long-Haul Travel

Delta’s Premium Select cabin has been a standout in the premium economy race. With its larger seat pitch of around 38 inches and a seat width between 18.5 to 19 inches, Premium Select offers significant room compared to Delta’s Main Cabin, which typically features 30 to 32 inches of pitch. This translates into a more comfortable experience for passengers on long-haul flights, especially on international routes such as transatlantic and transpacific services.

Delta’s Premium Select is strategically positioned on its Airbus A350 and A330-900neo aircraft, designed for long-distance travel. The cabin layout is a key differentiator, with a 2-4-2 configuration on the A350, which is far more spacious compared to the tighter 3-3-3 arrangement found in standard economy. This design not only reduces the number of middle seats but also increases the width of aisles, creating a quieter and more relaxed environment. For passengers, this means more personal space, a deeper recline, adjustable footrests, and ample legroom.

American Airlines: Premium Economy – Comfort and Consistency Across the Network

American Airlines has also made significant strides in its premium economy offering. As one of the first U.S. carriers to deploy a dedicated premium economy cabin on most of its long-haul fleet, American provides passengers with consistent comfort across international routes. On aircraft such as the Boeing 787 and Boeing 777-300ER, American’s Premium Economy seats offer around 38 inches of pitch and a width of approximately 19 inches. The experience is further enhanced by upgraded meals, larger seatback entertainment screens, and priority boarding.

American’s widespread deployment of Premium Economy means that passengers can expect a similar experience across a variety of international routes. Whether traveling from New York to London or from Dallas to Tokyo, the seat dimensions and overall experience remain consistent. This makes booking a Premium Economy seat with American Airlines an easy choice for travelers who value predictability and comfort. The consistency is a major advantage, as it reduces the uncertainty often associated with aircraft swaps on international flights.

United Airlines: Premium Plus – Blurring the Line Between Economy and Business Class

United Airlines has introduced its Premium Plus product to compete head-to-head with Delta and American. On aircraft like the Boeing 787-9 and 787-8, Premium Plus seats are equipped with 38 inches of pitch and 18.5 to 19 inches of width, with ergonomic features such as adjustable leg rests, foot support, and enhanced recline. United’s Premium Plus service aims to provide passengers with a comfortable mid-tier experience between standard economy and the more luxurious Polaris business class.

What sets United apart is its attention to cabin design and overall passenger comfort. Although the seat dimensions are comparable to its competitors, United’s recent fleet upgrades on the Boeing 787 and 777 aircraft have introduced more modern seatback technology, larger tray tables, and privacy dividers. This attention to detail helps make Premium Plus a standout product, especially for travelers who value comfort but are not quite ready to splurge on business class.

JetBlue Airways: Even More Space & Mint – A Unique Approach to Comfort

While JetBlue does not offer a traditional premium economy cabin, it has made waves with its “Even More Space” (EMS) seating in the economy class and its Mint business class service. EMS offers a pitch of 37 to 41 inches, which is significantly more than standard economy seating. This legroom advantage places JetBlue in the spotlight as one of the most spacious U.S. carriers for domestic and regional flights. The only downside is that EMS seating maintains the standard economy seat width, which can limit overall comfort on longer flights.

For passengers seeking an even more luxurious experience, JetBlue’s Mint service provides a full business-class suite, complete with privacy dividers, lie-flat beds, and upgraded meals. Mint is available on select transcontinental and international flights, offering a fully enclosed suite experience for those who want the highest level of comfort. While JetBlue’s premium offerings are not as expansive as Delta’s or American’s, its creative approach to combining EMS and Mint positions it as a leader in providing flexible comfort options.

The Impact on the Hospitality Industry: More Comfortable Flights Mean More Spending at Hotels and Attractions

As U.S. airlines invest heavily in premium economy, the effects will be felt beyond the airlines themselves. The hospitality industry stands to benefit from the increased comfort and convenience that these premium cabins offer. Travelers seeking a more enjoyable flight experience are likely to extend that desire for comfort to their accommodations once they land. Hotels, particularly those in key tourist destinations like New York, Los Angeles, and Miami, can expect increased demand from travelers looking to book more luxurious stays after arriving from their premium economy flights.

Increased comfort on long-haul flights also means that travelers are less likely to experience jetlag or fatigue, making them more likely to explore their destination. This could lead to a boost in local tourism spending, particularly in cultural and leisure activities such as sightseeing, dining, and shopping. Airlines offering premium economy seating can also collaborate with hotels and tourism boards to create packages that provide an all-inclusive experience, from comfortable flights to luxurious hotel stays and immersive local experiences.

Travel Tips for Tourists Booking Premium Economy in 2026

1. Booking Early: To secure the best seats in premium economy, it’s crucial to book early. Airlines like Delta, American, and United often offer promotional fares, but these can sell out quickly, especially for popular travel periods like summer and the holiday season.
2. Frequent Flyer Miles Optimization: Make sure to use any frequent flyer miles or loyalty points to upgrade to premium economy. These cabins are often a great way to maximize the value of your miles, especially for long-haul international flights.
3. Consider Upgrades at Check-In: While it’s best to book premium economy in advance, many airlines offer discounted upgrade options during online check-in or at the airport. Keep an eye out for these opportunities, as they can provide you with a comfortable upgrade at a fraction of the cost.
4. Pack Light: Although premium economy cabins offer more legroom and wider seats, space in the overhead bins may still be limited. Opt for a carry-on suitcase and prioritize essential items to avoid any additional stress during boarding.
5. Take Advantage of Priority Boarding: If you’re traveling with American, United, or Delta, be sure to take advantage of priority boarding, which is included in premium economy tickets. This allows you to settle in before the cabin fills up, giving you a head start on getting comfortable.
6. Bring Noise-Canceling Headphones: While premium economy cabins are quieter than standard economy, bringing a good pair of noise-canceling headphones can help ensure a peaceful journey. Many airlines, including Delta and American, offer excellent in-flight entertainment systems, so don’t forget to make the most of them.

What’s Next for U.S. Airlines and Premium Economy?

The competition between Delta, American, United, and JetBlue will only intensify as passenger demand for premium economy grows. With airlines pouring more resources into enhancing their premium economy offerings, it’s clear that the next few years will see an exciting transformation in how passengers experience long-haul flights. Travelers can look forward to even more comfort, better amenities, and a smoother flying experience overall. The airlines are not just competing for passengers’ attention; they are competing to redefine what air travel can be.

As the hospitality industry adjusts to these changes, hotels, restaurants, and local attractions will likely see an uptick in tourism activity as more travelers seek premium experiences both in the air and on the ground. With airlines and hospitality providers working in tandem, the future of air travel looks brighter than ever.

As Delta, American, United, and JetBlue go head-to-head in 2026, passengers can expect a significant upgrade in premium economy. These airlines are setting new standards for comfort, convenience, and value, making long-haul flights more accessible and enjoyable for all.

Wrapping Up

In 2026, the growing competition among U.S. airlines to provide the most spacious and comfortable premium economy seats is changing the way travelers approach long-haul flights. Delta, American, United, and JetBlue are all stepping up their game, offering new amenities, enhanced seating, and a more comfortable flying experience. This shift not only benefits travelers but also has the potential to boost the hospitality and tourism industries, driving increased spending at hotels and attractions. As airlines continue to invest in premium economy, the future of travel looks more comfortable, exciting, and immersive than ever before.

Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK are joining forces to reshape global tourism, and the recent ITB Berlin 2026 provided the perfect platform for this powerhouse collaboration. With Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka leading the charge, Fiji showcased its vibrant tourism strategy, strengthening partnerships with major players like Fiji Airways, Emirates, and top-tier resorts, while positioning itself as a key destination for high-value travelers. As tourism continues its global recovery, the strategic efforts at ITB Berlin are paving the way for an influx of visitors from Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. With enhanced air connectivity, luxury eco-tourism, and unparalleled resort experiences, Fiji is not only attracting more travelers but is also setting a new standard for sustainable and luxurious vacations. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in the tourism industry, combining the beauty of the Pacific with world-class hospitality, promising an unforgettable travel experience that travelers worldwide can’t afford to miss.

Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK Join Forces at ITB Berlin

Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK are forging stronger ties in global tourism, and the recent International Tourism Trade Show (ITB Berlin) 2026 was the perfect platform for them to showcase their collaborative efforts. As the tourism industry begins to recover from the effects of the pandemic, the spotlight is on how key players like Fiji Airways and some of the world’s most renowned resorts are driving this resurgence. The Deputy Prime Minister of Fiji, Viliame Gavoka, led a high-level delegation at the event, demonstrating how tourism is not only vital to Fiji’s economy but also to its future growth.

How Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK Are Strengthening Tourism Ties at ITB Berlin

ITB Berlin, the world’s largest international tourism exhibition, is a key forum where countries from all over the world gather to discuss and expand tourism collaborations. For Fiji, this year’s exhibition was a defining moment in its journey to recovery, strengthening relationships with high-yield markets like Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. These regions have always been major sources of tourism for Fiji, and the new partnerships announced in Berlin are expected to drive a new wave of visitors seeking both luxury and eco-tourism experiences.

Australia continues to be the largest market for Fiji, accounting for nearly 45% of total visitor arrivals. New Zealand follows closely, contributing around 22% of international visitors, while the UK has steadily increased its numbers, currently representing over 3% of Fiji’s total tourism. These strong relationships with key countries are vital in rebuilding air traffic, hotel bookings, and the overall tourism ecosystem.

Fiji Airways, the country’s national carrier, has been a key player in strengthening connectivity. By maintaining regular flights to and from Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and other important regions, Fiji Airways ensures that travelers have a seamless journey to this paradise island. The airline has also expanded its partnerships with major international airlines to offer more convenient travel routes and better options for long-haul tourists. This increased connectivity supports both leisure and business tourism, contributing significantly to Fiji’s tourism recovery.

How Fiji Airways and Leading Resorts Are Revolutionizing Global Tourism at ITB Berlin

Fiji Airways’ role in the global tourism landscape is pivotal in connecting Fiji with the world. With its strategic expansion in European markets, including direct flights to major hubs such as London Heathrow and Frankfurt, the airline is tapping into a new wave of European visitors. The introduction of premium services and the airline’s commitment to sustainability have further enhanced Fiji’s appeal to high-value travelers looking for luxury and eco-conscious experiences.

Additionally, Fiji’s leading resorts such as the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa, and the luxurious Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort are redefining the hospitality industry in the region. These resorts have been at the forefront of incorporating sustainable practices in their operations, ensuring that Fiji remains a responsible destination for travelers who value the environment and local communities. By working closely with travel operators and airlines, these resorts are part of a broader strategy to offer premium experiences that cater to the evolving demands of today’s global traveler.

At ITB Berlin, the conversations were centered around sustainable tourism practices, highlighting the country’s long-standing commitment to eco-tourism. From embracing green certification programs to engaging in local conservation efforts, these resorts are setting the benchmark for luxury tourism that respects and protects the environment. The integration of eco-conscious initiatives not only attracts environmentally aware travelers but also contributes to Fiji’s long-term sustainability goals.

The Rising Importance of European Markets in Fiji’s Tourism Strategy

In 2025, Fiji saw a surge in visitors from European markets, with over 50,000 travelers arriving from the UK, France, Germany, and other European nations. This growth underscores the significance of the European market in Fiji’s tourism strategy. Through partnerships announced at ITB Berlin, Fiji aims to tap into the high-value market segment from Europe, including those seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations and immersive cultural experiences.

The UK, in particular, has shown strong recovery trends, with a 10% increase in visitor arrivals over the past year. This surge is attributed to Fiji Airways’ strategic flight offerings, making it easier for UK residents to visit. The UK market has always been a strong supporter of Fiji’s eco-tourism and adventure offerings, such as hiking through Fiji’s lush rainforests, exploring coral reefs, and experiencing the local Fijian culture. Resorts in Fiji are adapting to this influx of travelers by enhancing their offerings, including tailored wellness retreats, cultural immersion programs, and personalized adventure tours. These innovations are designed to cater to the discerning European traveler seeking authentic, sustainable, and luxury experiences.

Travel Tips for Tourists Visiting Fiji in 2026

For travelers planning to visit Fiji in 2026, several tips can enhance the experience. First and foremost, travelers should check for direct flights to Fiji, as Fiji Airways offers direct routes from major international hubs like Sydney, Auckland, and Los Angeles. By booking early, tourists can secure great deals on direct flights, which help cut down on travel time and cost.

Once in Fiji, visitors will find a diverse range of experiences waiting for them. For those seeking a relaxing beach vacation, the Coral Coast and the Mamanuca Islands offer stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious resorts. On the other hand, for adventure enthusiasts, Fiji provides excellent hiking trails, diving spots, and a rich culture to explore. Tourists can visit local villages, attend Fijian cultural ceremonies, and enjoy traditional performances that celebrate the island’s heritage.

The tourism infrastructure in Fiji is also evolving, with more eco-friendly resorts and hotels opening each year. Visitors can stay at resorts that prioritize sustainability, offering everything from locally sourced food to energy-efficient accommodations and waste reduction programs. Many resorts also provide eco-tours that allow travelers to learn about Fiji’s flora and fauna while enjoying activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and reef diving.

The Hospitality Industry’s Role in the Post-Pandemic Revival

Fiji’s hospitality sector has been undergoing a transformation as it recovers from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The rise in domestic and international tourism has led to an increase in demand for hotel accommodations and travel services. Leading hotels and resorts are capitalizing on this surge by upgrading facilities, expanding offerings, and introducing new services that cater to changing traveler preferences.

The development of boutique hotels and private villas has also become more popular, offering more exclusive, intimate experiences for those seeking a more personalized stay. Additionally, with the growing importance of health and safety, many resorts have implemented rigorous hygiene protocols to ensure that guests feel comfortable and secure during their stay.

For travelers, this means that they can enjoy world-class amenities, luxurious settings, and exceptional service while also knowing that their travel choices contribute to the preservation of the local environment. As the hospitality industry in Fiji continues to thrive, it is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for luxury travelers, eco-tourists, and adventure seekers alike.

Airline Details and Travel Routes to Fiji

For tourists planning their trip to Fiji, Fiji Airways offers direct flights from key cities around the world. From Australia, travelers can book direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. New Zealanders can easily reach Fiji with direct flights from Auckland and Wellington. The United States sees direct flights from Los Angeles and San Francisco, while United Kingdom travelers can fly directly from London Heathrow. Additionally, Qatar Airways and Emirates provide excellent connections through the Middle East, further strengthening Fiji’s international travel network.

Flights from Australia typically take around 4-5 hours, while flights from New Zealand range from 3-4 hours. Long-haul flights from the US can take between 11-14 hours, depending on the departure city. Travelers from Europe can expect around 20 hours of travel, with convenient stopovers available via major European hubs.

Fiji’s Bright Tourism Future

As Fiji continues to rebuild and expand its tourism sector, the future looks brighter than ever. The strong partnerships with Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and other key markets will further solidify its position as a leading destination in the Pacific. Fiji Airways’ strategic role in increasing connectivity, combined with the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism and luxury experiences, ensures that Fiji remains a top destination for travelers around the world. The hospitality sector is evolving to meet the demands of today’s travelers, offering a diverse range of experiences that appeal to tourists seeking both adventure and relaxation.

As Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK strengthen their tourism partnerships at ITB Berlin, the future of global travel is set to soar. With Fiji Airways leading the charge, travellers can expect a seamless, luxurious, and sustainable travel experience that bridges continents and cultures.

Tourists who are ready to explore Fiji can look forward to a seamless travel experience, world-class resorts, and unique cultural experiences, all set against the backdrop of one of the most beautiful and ecologically diverse countries in the world. Whether you are coming from Australia, New Zealand, the UK, or beyond, Fiji promises to be a destination that meets the highest expectations and offers a memorable journey for every traveler.

The H-1B visa, which allows highly skilled workers to enter the United States, continues to be a crucial pathway for foreign professionals looking to contribute to the U.S. economy. It provides an opportunity for workers from around the world to fill specialized roles in various industries, from technology and engineering to healthcare and finance. As of 2026, the application process, benefits, and challenges associated with the H-1B visa remain highly relevant for both employers and foreign employees seeking opportunities in the U.S. Below, we explore the key pros and cons of the H-1B visa, shedding light on what to expect in the application process and the broader implications of holding this visa.

Understanding the H-1B Visa Process

The H-1B visa program plays a significant role in the U.S. labor market by allowing businesses to hire foreign workers for roles that require specialized knowledge. The visa is typically granted for three years, with an extension up to a maximum of six years. After this, workers may seek permanent residency, often through employer-sponsored green card processes.

The process begins with an employer submitting a Labor Condition Application (LCA) to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Once the LCA is approved, the employer submits a Form I-129 petition to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Given the competitive nature of the process, especially since there is a cap on the number of H-1B visas issued each year, applicants may be subjected to a random lottery system if the number of applications exceeds the cap.

The Pros of the H-1B Visa

For skilled workers across the globe, the H-1B visa offers a multitude of advantages, making it a highly desirable option for those aiming to work in the U.S.

Access to High-Paying Jobs

One of the most significant advantages of the H-1B visa is the opportunity to access high-paying jobs in specialized sectors. Workers holding the H-1B visa often earn competitive salaries, reflecting their highly sought-after skills in fields such as information technology, engineering, and healthcare. According to official data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, H-1B workers can earn considerably more than the average U.S. worker in similar positions.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

The H-1B visa can serve as a stepping stone to obtaining permanent residency in the United States. Many workers eventually apply for a green card through their employers, leading to long-term residency and the possibility of U.S. citizenship. In many cases, employers sponsor H-1B workers for the green card process, which can ultimately grant them the right to live and work permanently in the U.S.

Dependents Can Accompany the Worker

H-1B visa holders can bring their spouse and children under the H-4 visa category. The spouse may also be eligible to apply for work authorization in certain circumstances. This allows the worker’s family members to settle in the U.S. and participate in the economic and social aspects of American life.

Job Flexibility with Employer Change

H-1B visa holders have the option to change employers while remaining in the U.S., as long as the new employer files a new petition on their behalf. This job flexibility enables workers to pursue better opportunities, though they must wait for the new petition’s approval before transitioning to a new position.

The Cons of the H-1B Visa

Despite its benefits, the H-1B visa comes with several drawbacks that applicants must consider before pursuing this route.

Visa Uncertainty and Limited Availability

One of the most significant challenges of the H-1B visa is the annual cap on the number of visas issued. In recent years, the number of applications has far exceeded the available spots, meaning applicants must participate in a lottery system for selection. As a result, many qualified individuals are left without an opportunity to enter the U.S. under the H-1B program. This uncertainty makes the process unpredictable and difficult to plan for.

Short-Term Nature of the Visa

The H-1B visa is typically issued for a period of three years, with the possibility of extension. However, this is a temporary solution, and after six years, individuals must leave the U.S. unless they transition to permanent residency. For workers who want long-term stability, this limitation can be a significant drawback.

Dependence on Employer

H-1B visa holders are heavily dependent on their employers for visa sponsorship. If an individual loses their job, their visa status may be jeopardized, and they must find a new employer who is willing to sponsor them for a new petition. This dependence on one employer creates job insecurity, especially in competitive industries where layoffs and restructuring can occur unexpectedly.

Limited Flexibility in Job Changes

While the H-1B visa does allow for job changes, this is not a simple process. The new employer must file a new petition with USCIS, and the worker must wait for approval before making the switch. This creates delays and limits the flexibility that other visa categories, such as the L-1 visa, may provide.

Green Card Process Is Not Guaranteed

Although the H-1B visa can serve as a pathway to a green card, the process is not guaranteed, especially given the backlog in green card applications for individuals from certain countries, such as India and China. For many, the road from an H-1B visa to permanent residency can be a lengthy and uncertain journey.

Pros and Cons of the H-1B Visa

Tips for Success with the H-1B Visa

To maximize the chances of a successful application for the H-1B visa, applicants should keep the following tips in mind:

• Start Early: Begin the application process well in advance of the filing deadline to ensure all documents are prepared and submitted on time.
• Find a Qualified Employer: Ensure that the employer offering sponsorship is familiar with the process and able to provide the necessary support to navigate the application.
• Prepare for the Lottery: Since the number of H-1B applications exceeds the cap, be prepared for the lottery process, and consider other visa options if the H-1B visa is not available.
• Consult an Immigration Attorney: Seek professional advice from an immigration attorney to ensure that all paperwork is completed correctly and to improve the chances of approval.

Conclusion

The H-1B visa remains one of the most important channels for skilled professionals looking to work in the U.S. While it offers many benefits, including access to high-paying jobs and a potential path to permanent residency, it is not without challenges. The lottery system, short-term nature, and dependence on an employer can make the process daunting. However, for those who successfully navigate the hurdles, the H-1B visa opens doors to career advancement and personal growth in the United States.

Spain’s tourism sector has witnessed unprecedented growth in 2025, with the country attracting over 96 million international visitors—a remarkable milestone that marks the highest level of inbound travel in the nation’s history. According to the official data released by Spain’s National Statistics Institute (Instituto Nacional de Estadística, INE), this surge underscores Spain’s enduring appeal as a top global travel destination.

For years, Spain has been one of Europe’s most sought-after countries, known for its rich culture, stunning architecture, and picturesque landscapes. However, the latest figures show a substantial increase in both the number of visitors and the spending power of international travelers. This growth is seen as the result of multiple factors, including strategic government initiatives, innovative tourism practices, and the country’s unique offerings.

Factors Behind Spain’s Record-Breaking Tourism Year

Spain’s tourism boom in 2025 was driven by several contributing factors, beginning with the nation’s diverse tourism appeal. Major cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville continue to top the list of must-visit destinations. However, what’s truly remarkable is the surge in visitors to regions that were previously off the beaten path, such as the Costa Brava, Andalusia, and the Canary Islands. These areas have gained traction due to their distinctive cultural offerings, natural beauty, and less crowded environments.

Moreover, Spain’s active efforts to promote sustainable tourism have resonated well with eco-conscious travelers. The government’s push for greener travel options, including carbon-neutral hotels and eco-friendly excursions, has strengthened the country’s position as a responsible destination. The Green Tourism Certification Program and initiatives promoting environmental awareness have played a significant role in this shift.

Additionally, Spain’s vibrant events calendar has also proven a major draw for international visitors. Cultural festivals like the Seville Fair and San Fermín’s Running of the Bulls remain as popular as ever, attracting large crowds. Spain’s investment in high-profile international events, including the Madrid Fashion Week and UEFA events, has contributed to an influx of visitors seeking to be part of these global spectacles.

A Boost for the Spanish Economy

The tourism sector is a key pillar of Spain’s economy, and in 2025, it delivered impressive results. The country generated over €94 billion in tourism revenue, reflecting a 5% increase from the previous year. This economic boost has been particularly beneficial for local communities, creating jobs and revitalizing businesses in tourism-dependent regions. Hotels, restaurants, transportation services, and retail industries have all benefitted from the uptick in visitors.

The Spanish government’s investments in tourism infrastructure have also made a considerable impact. The country’s extensive network of high-speed trains, modern airports, and improved public transport systems have made it easier for tourists to explore even the most remote parts of Spain. This seamless travel experience has encouraged visitors to extend their stays and explore new regions.

Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond

As the tourism industry reflects on the success of 2025, Spain is already setting its sights on the future. The government aims to continue developing cultural tourism, gastronomy tours, and sports tourism in 2026. Spain is also preparing to host the 2026 UEFA Champions League Final and is making further investments in its digital tourism infrastructure, which will allow visitors to enjoy immersive experiences and digital self-guided tours.

In particular, Spain’s government is focusing on attracting family-friendly tourism and luxury travelers. The rise of luxury travel to Spain has been particularly noticeable, with more visitors seeking high-end experiences such as private yacht charters, gourmet food tours, and stays at boutique hotels in Spain’s most exclusive destinations.

The continued growth of medical tourism is another area of focus, with Spain attracting an increasing number of international visitors seeking world-class healthcare services at competitive prices. The Spanish healthcare system has developed a reputation for high standards and accessibility, particularly in cities like Barcelona and Madrid.

Spain’s Tourism Triumph

Spain’s record-breaking tourism figures for 2025 reflect its enduring status as one of the world’s most visited countries. With more than 96 million international visitors, the country has not only surpassed previous records but also solidified its position as a top contender in the global travel market.

The growth of Spain’s tourism industry has brought significant economic benefits, created jobs, and boosted local economies. As the nation continues to evolve its tourism strategy, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and diversification, Spain is well-positioned to maintain its appeal for years to come. With its blend of cultural heritage, modern amenities, and diverse landscapes, Spain will remain a favorite for travelers worldwide.

As we look to the future, Spain’s tourism sector promises even greater success, ensuring that the country will remain at the forefront of international travel. Whether it’s the allure of historic cities, the appeal of coastal retreats, or the excitement of world-class events, Spain continues to be a destination that offers something for every traveler.

Canada, the UK, France, and Germany are facing unprecedented economic consequences as a result of the sharp decline in U.S. tourism, a downturn that has deeply impacted industries across the Atlantic. In 2025, escalating trade tensions and political rhetoric, particularly from President Trump, led to a dramatic 25% drop in Canadian visitors to the U.S., which sent shockwaves through the airline and hospitality sectors. Airlines such as Delta and American Airlines have struggled to adjust to the reduced demand, slashing flights and facing financial losses, while the hospitality industry, including major chains like Hilton and Marriott, has grappled with plummeting bookings and reduced revenues. This tourism slump has not only affected cross-border travel but also reverberated across the broader U.S. economy, highlighting the fragility of the tourism sector, where international visitors, particularly from Canada and Europe, play a crucial role in sustaining jobs and driving local economies. With travel patterns shifting and major carriers adjusting their networks, the question remains: how will this disruption reshape the future of U.S. tourism, and what does it mean for international travelers looking to visit the U.S. in the coming years?

Canada, UK, France, and Germany Face Economic Havoc as U.S. Tourism Dips

The year 2025 has brought significant disruptions to the U.S. tourism industry, particularly affecting international travelers from Canada, the UK, France, and Germany. The sharp decline in Canadian visitors to the United States, largely triggered by escalating trade tensions and political rhetoric from the Trump administration, has reverberated across the tourism, airline, and hospitality industries. With U.S. tourism suffering a major blow, major airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, and several hotel chains have been hit hard. The impact is far-reaching, leaving these industries scrambling to adjust to the changes. But how did this all begin, and what does it mean for future travel?

The Decline of Canadian Tourists to the U.S. and Its Economic Fallout

One of the most notable effects in 2025 has been the significant drop in Canadian travelers to the U.S., with visitor numbers plummeting by up to 25%. This is largely attributed to the political climate, including President Trump’s rhetoric surrounding trade deals and the possibility of U.S. acquisitions in Canada. As tensions rose, Canadians became more hesitant about visiting the U.S., resulting in a sharp decrease in tourism. This decline has had a massive ripple effect on the U.S. economy, especially in regions that heavily rely on Canadian tourism, such as major cities near the U.S.-Canada border.

The loss of Canadian tourists has been devastating for U.S. tourism-dependent regions. In fact, Canadian visitors account for a significant portion of the overall international tourist traffic to the U.S. — nearly 28% in 2024. Cities like New York, Miami, and Las Vegas, which are prime destinations for Canadian tourists, saw a substantial decrease in foot traffic. This decline in visitors not only affected local businesses but also caused a drop in revenue for airlines, tour operators, and the hospitality industry.

How the UK, France, and Germany Are Affected by the U.S. Tourism Dip

It’s not just Canada that’s feeling the effects of this tourism downturn. The UK, France, and Germany have also seen their share of visitors to the U.S. decline in 2025. According to travel analysts, these European markets experienced up to a 9% reduction in tourist arrivals to the U.S. compared to 2024. A combination of factors contributed to this dip, including the political climate, rising travel costs, and a shift in consumer sentiment toward more favorable destinations.

For the UK, the decline in U.S.-bound tourism is part of a broader trend where travelers are opting for European destinations instead. The same applies to France, where more French tourists have turned to neighboring countries like Spain and Italy, which offer more affordable travel options. Germany also saw a drop in travelers heading to the U.S. in 2025, as many opted for closer destinations within the European Union.

The situation is not just about the volume of visitors; it’s also about the type of tourism lost. The U.S. tourism sector relies heavily on high-spending international visitors from the UK, Germany, and France, who contribute significantly to the economy. The reduction in these high-value tourists has had a noticeable impact on U.S. tourism revenues, particularly in luxury hotels and premium travel services.

The Struggles of Airlines Like Delta and American Airlines

As the demand for international flights to the U.S. faltered, major airlines like Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and United Airlines found themselves grappling with excess capacity and reduced profitability. Delta, one of the largest carriers flying from the UK and Canada to the U.S., reported a noticeable dip in long-haul bookings. The airline adjusted by reducing flight frequencies on certain routes, including those between London Heathrow and New York City, two major hubs for transatlantic travel.

American Airlines also faced similar challenges, particularly with flights originating from Germany and France. The airline was forced to scale back its services between Frankfurt and Chicago, as demand for cross-Atlantic travel dwindled. Despite efforts to boost domestic travel within the U.S., the impact of reduced international tourism remained significant. United Airlines, too, witnessed a decline in international bookings, especially from Canada and the UK, which are historically strong markets for the airline.

For these airlines, the consequences were not limited to revenue losses. Reduced flight frequencies led to fewer options for travelers, especially those wanting to fly from Europe and Canada to the U.S. Furthermore, the airlines had to contend with high operating costs, including fuel and airport fees, with reduced demand failing to offset these expenses.

The Effect on the U.S. Hospitality Industry

The U.S. hospitality industry has also taken a significant hit. Hotels, particularly those in border regions and popular tourist destinations like New York, Miami, and Los Angeles, have seen a drop in occupancy rates. With fewer Canadians visiting, these cities are feeling the pressure as they rely heavily on cross-border tourism. For hotels like Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt, the drop in international visitors has meant lower room bookings and fewer extended stays.

For luxury hotels, which traditionally cater to high-spending international visitors, the losses have been particularly severe. Many of these hotels rely on the influx of Canadian, European, and Asian tourists to maintain profitability. When these customers stopped coming, the impact was felt deeply in the bottom lines of these major chains.

Moreover, as the demand for international tourists fell, the hospitality industry was forced to pivot its marketing efforts. Many hotel chains started targeting domestic U.S. travelers to fill the void left by international tourists. However, the domestic market could not fully compensate for the loss of high-spending international visitors. As a result, some hotels had to adjust their pricing strategies and offer promotions to attract local tourists, ultimately leading to a reduced revenue per available room (RevPAR).

What Can Tourists Expect in the Coming Years?

For tourists looking to visit the U.S. in 2026 and beyond, there are a few important trends to keep in mind. First, flight options may be more limited, especially for international routes that were heavily reliant on travelers from Canada and Europe. Some airlines have already reduced their service frequencies, meaning that travelers will need to plan their trips well in advance to secure their preferred flight times. Additionally, travelers may find higher ticket prices due to reduced competition on popular international routes.

Secondly, while U.S. destinations are still attracting domestic visitors, international travelers may experience fewer crowds, especially in tourist-heavy cities. For those who can navigate the higher costs and limited flight options, there may be opportunities to enjoy popular attractions without the usual throngs of tourists. However, tourists should also be prepared for price hikes in the hospitality industry, especially in major cities, where the drop in international visitation has led to fewer budget-friendly options.

Lastly, travelers may notice an increased focus on domestic tourism. As the U.S. works to recover from the drop in international visitors, local tourism authorities and hospitality brands are expected to ramp up their efforts to attract U.S. residents. This could mean more promotions and domestic travel incentives, which could be beneficial for locals looking to explore their own country.

Travel Tips for Tourists Heading to the U.S. in 2026

1. Book Flights Early: With fewer international flights available, it’s crucial to book your flights as early as possible to secure the best rates and availability.
2. Consider Off-Peak Seasons: To avoid higher prices and crowded tourist spots, consider traveling during the off-peak seasons.
3. Explore Lesser-Known Destinations: Instead of heading to the usual tourist hotspots, try exploring lesser-known destinations within the U.S. that offer unique experiences without the crowds.
4. Check Airline Offers: Many airlines are now offering special deals for travelers willing to take flexible routes or times. Be sure to check for these promotions.
5. Pack Smart: Due to the higher cost of travel, it’s wise to pack light to avoid unnecessary baggage fees and make your journey more comfortable.

Flight Details You Should Know

Travelers can expect the following from major airlines serving U.S. international routes:

• Delta Airlines: Currently operating reduced flights between London Heathrow and New York City, with options available for flights between Frankfurt and Atlanta.
• American Airlines: Offering limited services from Paris to Dallas and London to Philadelphia. Booking well in advance is advised to secure seats.
• United Airlines: Fewer direct routes from Europe to the U.S. are available, especially to smaller cities. Make sure to check for connecting flights if flying into regional airports.

As Canada, the UK, France, and Germany face significant economic fallout from the decline in U.S. tourism, airlines and the hospitality industry scramble to adapt. The shift in travel dynamics raises questions about the future of international tourism to the U.S. and its broader impact on the global travel economy.

Wrapping Up

The drop in Canadian visitors to the U.S. has undoubtedly shaken the tourism, airline, and hospitality industries. However, while some destinations are struggling, there are still opportunities for savvy travelers to explore the U.S. on a budget. The key to navigating these changes is flexibility and early planning, as the future of travel to the U.S. looks different than it has in years past. Whether you’re flying from Europe, Canada, or further afield, understanding these shifts will help you make the most of your American adventure.

There’s one thing Samsung didn’t shout about at Unpacked that could actually change how people use Samsung phones: vibe coding.

Recently, Hamish Hector of Techradar asked Won-Joon Choi, Samsung’s head of MX Business, whether vibe coding might surface on Samsung Galaxy devices; he didn’t shut the door. “Something we’re looking into,” he said.

Then he got specific; the appeal isn’t just app tweaks, it’s deeper.

“The possibility of customising your smartphone experience in new ways, not just your apps but your UX.” Right now, we are stuck with whatever Samsung or Google decided to ship, but vibe coding flips that.

You tell an AI what you want built. Maybe you’re sick of YouTube Shorts clogging your feed and you want a version that strips them out entirely. The AI writes the code, you install it and it’s done, Shorts gone from your feed.

This isn’t some futuristic concept either; coding assistants have been around since LLMs first showed up, but the new breed of vibe coding tools can hand working apps to people who’ve never touched a line of code.

Samsung loves reminding everyone that Android is open. Benjamin Braun, Samsung’s chief marketing officer, celebrated that openness in a post-Unpacked panel.

If Android lets you sideload anything you want already, why wouldn’t Samsung bake vibe coding directly into One UI? It’s the most obvious move they could make.

Choi seemed interested, at least. He didn’t commit to a timeline or confirm it’s definitely happening. But the fact that he engaged with it at all tells you Samsung’s at least thinking about this seriously.

If Samsung actually does this, the “AI phone” label might finally mean something beyond marketing copy. You wouldn’t just be using Samsung and Google’s preloaded apps, but you would make your own apps and use them on Galaxy.

The post Samsung wants you to customize One UI beyond apps with vibe coding appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Bu gün futbol üzrə İngiltərə Federasiya Kubokunda 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 1/8 final mərhələsinə start verilib.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, ilk oyun günündə bir qarşılaşma baş tutub.

Mərhələnin açılış oyununda “Vulverhempton” doğma meydanda “Liverpul”la üz-üzə gəlib. “Qırmızılar” səfər oyunundan inamlı qələbə ilə ayrılaraq ilk 1/4 finalçı olublar.

Federasiya Kubokunda 1/8 finalın qalan görüşləri martın 7-də və 8-də keçiriləcək.

İngiltərə, Federasiya Kuboku
1/8 final
6 mart

Vulverhempton – Liverpul 1:3
Qollar: Hvanq, 90+1 – E.Robertson, 51. Salah, 53. K.Cons, 74.

7 mart

16:15. Mansfild – Arsenal
21:45. Reksem – Çelsi
00:00. Nyukasl – Mançester Siti

8 mart

16:00. Fulhem – Sauthempton
17:30. Port Veyl – Sanderlend
20:30. Lids – Norviç Siti
23:30. Vest Hem – Brentford

The post Florida Senate Passes Unprecedented, Comprehensive Stablecoin Regulation appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

On March 6, the Florida Senate unanimously passed Bill 314, which details comprehensive regulations regarding payment stablecoins. The pro-crypto state is the first in the US to develop such a framework, which now awaits signing into law by Governor Ron DeSantis.

Florida Senate passes stablecoin legislation

Florida’s framework borrows greatly from the nation’s GENIUS Act to remain federally compliant.

The Bill clarifies that stablecoins are not securities, but that their monetary value makes their issuers Money Services Businesses. This part of the Bill is similar to the specifications made by Texas and New York regarding stablecoins.

Issuers are therefore required to obtain operational licenses, such as the state MSB license or certain certificates of approval, in line with anti-money laundering provisions.

Providers must also perform KYC (Know Your Client) checks and keep real-time records of all transactions, just like banks. Issuers should report transactions above $10,000 to the state and those attracting suspicion to the Florida Office of Financial Regulation (OFR). They should also maintain a 1:1 reserve and transition into federal oversight once their total valuation reaches $10 billion.

In matters of stablecoin yield farming, the legislation says stablecoin issuers must not pay interest to holders if prohibited by federal law. This throws the ball back again to the US Senate, a place where the subject has been greatly debated and remains undecided.

Delays in the CLARITY Act

Some crypto opinionists argue that the GENIUS Act only prohibits issuers from offering stablecoin interest, and not any other rewards. Banks face criticism from US President Donald Trump and his son Eric Trump for lobbing against stablecoin yields, fearing capital flight.

Meanwhile, Tether has now participated in a $7.5 million funding round to build APIs that enable USDT payments on the Bitcoin network. Also developing is USDC, which is now the liquidity reserve for Cardano’s stablecoin USDCx.

The overall stablecoin market cap is now $312.85 billion, having risen from $205 billion in January of 2025.

Source: DefiLlama

Wednesday night’s loss to Washington pretty much ensured that USC men’s basketball will not go to the NCAA Tournament in 2026. At this point, the Trojans are no longer close to earning an at-large berth, and thus their only chance of making March Madness would be to somehow win five games in five days at the Big Ten Tournament.

On Saturday night, USC will conclude its regular season with a Crosstown Showdown matchup against rival UCLA at Galen Center. On the surface, the contest means nothing for USC’s postseason hopes. Despite this, however, it is a massive game for the Trojans, and especially for head coach Eric Musselman.

For one, rivalry games are always meaningful, regardless of the circumstances. That is especially true for Musselman, who has yet to beat the school across town, currently holding a mark of 0-3 in the rivalry.

As I wrote following the Trojans’ blowout loss in Westwood last week, “The unfortunate reality is that the Trojans are now 0-3 against UCLA under head coach Eric Musselman, with two of the three losses coming in blowout fashion. It is not as though the Bruins have been anything special during that stretch, either—UCLA has been an above average Big Ten team at best over the past two seasons, with head coach Mick Cronin’s seat seemingly starting to heat up.

“The fact of the matter is, while men’s basketball has not always been the most successful or popular sport at USC, this particular game matters a lot to the fanbase. One of the main reasons that Andy Enfield lasted so long at USC despite never winning a conference title and limited NCAA Tournament success was because he regularly put UCLA in its place. If Musselman wants to win himself over to USC fans, he needs to find a way to beat the school across town.”

Barring a stunning run through the Big Ten Tournament next week, this season will go down as a major disappointment for USC. Finally getting his first victory over UCLA, however, would go a long way towards helping Musselman to alleviate some of the disappointment as the Trojans look to build for next season.

This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: UCLA game is massive for Eric Musselman and USC men’s basketball

ANAHEIM, Calif – There was a different approach to trade deadline season for Anaheim Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek.

For the first time in four-year tenure in running the Ducks, Anaheim was no longer open to being raided to bolster the rest of the league. The hunted had become the hunters. The seller had become a buyer.

With the Ducks not just in probable playoff position for the first time in seven seasons but in pursuit of a division title for the first time since 2017, Verbeek decided to leverage his collected assets for acquisition, landing veteran defenseman John Carlson on Thursday to improve the Ducks’ outlook.

“Had we not done anything, I would have felt comfortable the same way,” Verbeek said in a media call on Friday afternoon, “but I think when you have an opportunity to better your team, I think that's your responsibility and your duty to do that. I think we have enough draft picks, we have enough prospects coming, and is it worth it to give up a conditional first rounder? In my opinion, yes, it is.”

Verbeek did not take away from his current roster, and instead sent a conditional first-round pick and 2027 third-round pick to Washington for the 17-year veteran Carlson. It was the first time in Verbeek’s run at the helm that a trade was made with the sole intent of taking a step forward, and taking that step right now.It’s no longer “sit back and develop prospects” in Anaheim. It’s time to build a winner.

“I think, first of all, you look at the player that you're putting into the group, so it certainly is a big add. It's a big add. He's a heck of a hockey player,” Verbeek said. “They don't come along often, and I think what we've been doing the last three years is adding assets, and I thought this was a time to where we could, you know, I looked at giving this group another extra push. Another little aid in helping us make this push to where we want to go. And so, ultimately, if we can get into playoffs and we can have a nice run, I looked at it like it's worth it. It's worth it to give this group experience, give them a chance to make the playoffs, and to do well in the playoffs.”

Although Carlson is in the final year of his deal, and the Ducks cleared $5 million in cap space next season with their one other move of Ryan Strome to Calgary, Verbeek said any time to put into contract negotiations is in the summer–whether that’s John Carlson, Leo Carlsson or anyone in between.

Six of the Ducks’ eight defenseman are either restricted or unrestricted free agents in the summer, and Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier will be due big contracts in their first real negotiations. But again, the focus is on the now.

“It's kind of early,” Verbeek said. “I want the dust to settle here, and I want the players to really concentrate on playing good hockey. All that stuff will take care of itself at the appropriate time, and I just want him to concentrate and play hockey, and play the best hockey that he can, and help the team the best way that he knows how, and that goes the same for the rest of the rest of the guys as well.”

“I don't want any distractions for this group, and I think this stuff will work itself out in due time.”

Below is a full transcript of the media call with Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek on Friday (questions and responses edited for clarity):

Tell me about the process of landing John Carlson. That's a pretty big deal.

Process is similar every time you kind of work a trade. It's funny, when you calll around and you talk to general managers, you see what what's going on, what they're looking to do. Washington kind of expressed that they were looking to move John Carlson, and we started to engage in talks probably a couple days ago, and it became more serious as the day went along yesterday. There's a lot of back and forth, and then we finally settled on, obviously, the compensation that's been reported, and we're excited to add John to our group.

His abilities are pretty well known around the NHL, what he does well. What did you like about him in particular, for your team, for your group at this point where you're trying to make that breakthrough?

Obviously, he's run a good power play. He's been with a group that's been exceptional power play. I think there's things that he can help us in that area. I think probably the things that we've liked a lot about him is he's a very intelligent player, very good puck mover. I like how he joins the rush in a real cerebral way. His five on five numbers this year have been outstanding, and so I think moving forward, and whether it's a playoff run or a playoff push, five on five play becomes very important, and it'll be important for our group, o make sure that we can keep pushing, to make the playoffs. And I think that's probably where when I look at what he's done, I think that's probably the most important part of all. And obviously, now we can distribute the ice time in a different manner. We can get better matchups. There's a lot that went into acquiring him and allowing us to have different looks, different options for our coaching staff, and I think that went into a lot of it as well.

I wanted to ask you as far as the positional focus. You look at the team, there was no glaring need. Were you looking, primarily, to upgrade defense, and maybe right defense in particular? Or did you take “a best player available” approach to the deadline?

No, I looked at, like, I looked at forward. Obviously, I looked at everywhere we could probably try to improve. John's is a big improvement for us. So, I think that we looked at that as an opportunity. I looked at being able to create a deeper team on the defense side. I think when you start to look the way the schedule is going, the last 20 games of the season, you're playing every other day, and it becomes a grind. And so, injuries become a major factor, and I think with adding John to our group, without having to subtract, it certainly adds a lot of depth to our group, and if certain things happen in the last stretch of the season, and nto the playoffs, we're positioned to have a lot of players that can still go in the lineup that are NHL ready.

In your discussions with Q, have you talked about where John might fit as far as the power play? Obviously, the big commitment to Jackson before the season, but Carlson's been a PP1 guy for the most part.

When you kind of look at power plays, you need two good power plays. You can have one, but, obviously, there might be one that's running hot one night, and not the next, so I think giving the coach options and different chemistry options, I think is very important, and John certainly adds to that mix. And so, Jackson's there, you know, we also have Pavel Mintukov. There's a lot of, there's just a lot of options that we can now put on the ice. 

On Ryan Strome, that trade, it gives him an opportunity to play regularly, gives you guys a lot of cap flexibility in what is gonna be an important summer. But can you just clue us in a little bit more on the process?

Ryan is an ultimate professional. He showed a lot of character. I think in this instance, he got injured at the start (of the season), and ended up being six weeks out of the lineup. Then, obviously, the team, we were winning, and it's difficult for any player to kind of come into that scenario and try and carve out a role. And so, Ryan was kind of, a lot of it, he was chasing it. He was in a tough position, and being healthy and being scratched from time to time. It's certainly, it's not the best for the player. You know, at times, it gives us depth, but I thought for Ryan, he's been just an outstanding person and like I said,  great character. From my perspective, we looked at it to give Ryan an opportunity to go to a team to where he's gonna be able to play and contribute to that team in a meaningful way, and as a player, I've been in his chair, and I understand exactly where he's coming from. It's important to play, and not sit out even, even though we're a team that's in a playoff push and run, from his perspective and from his family's perspectives, it's important that he keep continuing and have the opportunity to play.

What what led you to conclude that surrendering a first-round pick and that kind of price that this was the right time to do it? Was it more the fact that you had this kind of a player that became available? Or was it more the fact that you guys have played yourself into a position where maybe the division is there for the taking, and maybe even that side of the bracket, once you get into the postseason?

I think, first of all, you look at the player that you're putting into the group, so it certainly is a big add. It's a big add. He's a heck of a hockey player. So, to your point, they don't come along often, and I think what we've been doing the last three years is adding assets, and I thought this was a time to where we could, you know, I looked at giving this group another extra push. An other little aid in helping us make this push to where we want to go. And so, ultimately, you know, if we can get into playoffs and we can have a nice run, I looked at it like it's worth it. It's worth it to give this group experience, give them a chance to make the playoffs, and to do well in the playoffs. And that's kind of how I looked at it. And, you know, with the hope that we'll be able to re-sign him when this season's over.

You led right into what I was gonna ask, in terms of, is it too early to broach (re-signing) with (Carlson), or will you maybe start talking with his representation?

It's kind of early. There's other pre agents with the group, and, we've got RFAs, we got UFAs, and I want the dust to settle here, and I want the players to really concentrate on playing good hockey. All that stuff will take care of itself at the appropriate time, and I just want him to concentrate and play hockey, and play the best hockey that he can, and help the team the best way that he knows how, and that goes the same for the rest of the rest of the guys as well. I don't want any distractions for this group, and I think this stuff will work itself out in due time.

When it comes to going into this deadline, the mindset, the last few years, it's been a selling mindset of trying to get assets and continue to build a team. How did that change for you going into this one where your team is doing well, It's an opportunity to reward them with this opportunity. Is that how you saw that?

Well, absolutely. I mean, had we not done anything, I would have felt comfortable the same way, but I think when you have an opportunity to better your team, I think that's your responsibility and your duty to do that. I think we have enough draft picks, we have enough prospects coming, and is it worth it for to give up a conditional first rounder? In my opinion, yes, it is. And so to get the quality of a player that with John Carlson, then it made sense to not only to us, but to our organization. So that's how I viewed it.

When you look at the mix in the defensive side now, you have all the veterans there on the right and all the young guys on the left. What do you make of that?

It’s kind of the way it works out, man. (*laughs*) So, you know, I guess at some point here in the next few years the left side's gonna be the veteran inside, and the right side's gonna be the younger side. So, we're gonna take turns. It's just kind of how it's worked out.

You touched on it a little bit, but when you're looking at the summer and you're looking at the guys that you have coming up, obviously you get Poehling done the other day. Was there any thought to getting more of these guys done before the deadline or just waiting?

No, I think we reached a point early, well, maybe late October, early November that we just decided to table talks with any of our young players, and just focus on playing hockey. And if they play hockey well, then all this other contracts and all that stuff will take care of itself. I just wanted their mindset to be worried on playing good hockey and helping this team win and to get into the playoffs.

And I wanted to go back to an earlier trade. Jeffrey Viel comes in. He was a guy that wasn't playing much of if at all in Boston. How do you even scout a guy like that to have him come in and then be as successful as he has been with your group so far?

We have lots of scouts that do their job and they do it well. I watched him play against us early in the season, and I thought he had a pretty good game against us when we played in Boston. He was on what I call a fourth line grind line, and I thought he did a good job. I'm watching him, like, what you're seeing now out of him, we saw in the minors with his skill level, and his doggedness to get in on the forecheck, to finish checks. We saw all of that stuff. He's a quiet, tough customer. He's always been there for his teammates, which I love. And he's actually starting to feel really comfortable with our group, and with our system, and he's been kind of a little bit of a pleasant surprise for us, but we've seen some of the things that he's showing now in the minors, and he looks like he's just getting confidence to be able to do it at the NHL level now.

There hasn't been a ton of movement between San Diego and you guys this year. Obviously, a lot of injuries to account for in the bottom six and all that. What are you seeing from the development down in San Diego in terms of these young guys and giving their spots, whether it's the forwards or the defenseman?

Well, I think things are going good. We're in a good spot with San Diego. They're in a playoff spot. The big thing is, you know, now our younger guys are starting to take more of a leadership role in the sense of production and with our young–I look with Luneau and Hinds and now Solberg, those guys, they're progressing very nicely. Learning to win and to get into the playoffs is crucial for our young forwards and our young defense. I'm looking to get them a playoff experience just at a different level to help progress them along for next year and for the year after. We're at a really good development stage with those players in San Diego.

Now that it's been a couple months, how would you assess the deals that you made this off season to bring in Poehling and Mrazek?

Well, Mrazek, he's done for the season. That was just part of the, you know, with the deal with John Gibson, with Mrazek, we had to secure a backup goaltender, and Mrazek, he filled that spot. Obviously, now he's done for the rest of the season, but I think, looking back on it, I think with the experience last year, where we had all our goaltenders get hurt, it was crucial for us to sign Ville Husso Hughes. We ended up getting Ville for a two-year deal, and now, he's our backup. And now the emergence of Calle Clang has kind of really taken over. Looks like he's got the–if we needed him as a number three, then he could start to fill that spot and he's progressed this year. So, we've been fortunate from my perspective to have Ville in the wings. He did a good job helping San Diego win. And now, he's doing a good job here at the NHL level to help us win, especially with the win he had the other night. It's been good. I view it as a good deal.

It was kind of a general one on the trade deadline. It seemed like prices were high. Activity was a little low, but I wanted to get your read on the market overall. and ask, without getting any specifics, were you guys close, maybe on something else?

Not really. For me, I was kicking tires. I was targeting players that, if  we did something, that they'd be part of the future moving forward, looking for our team. Overall, it was quiet. Really didn't feel like there was anything else gonna happen with that, and some of the teams that we were talking to got focused on other things. And so, that's kind of how every trade deadline goes. You start to pivot things, and things shake out. So, I was happy with what we got accomplished. There'll be certain things that will get reviewed later in the summertime. 

Shams Charania: Boston's Nikola Vucevic is expected to undergo a procedure on Saturday for his fractured ring finger and miss approximately one month, sources tell ESPN.

Twitter

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Nikola Vucevic expected to be sidelined for a month

LAS VEGAS - The stage is set for two of the most decorated fighters in octagon history to settle the score after Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira had a final faceoff at UFC 326 ceremonial weigh-ins.

Holloway (27-8 MMA, 23-8 UFC) wants to leave no doubt after his first fight with Oliveira (36-11 MMA, 24-11 UFC) in August 2015 ended in unfortunate fashion. Both men have put together UFC Hall of Fame-worthy careers in the decade-plus since, and now they will rematch for the BMF title in Saturday's headliner at T-Mobile Arena (Paramount+, CBS).

It's been a respectful but competitive build into the second encounter between Holloway and Oliveira, who combine for the most wins in a single matchup in UFC history. They were both fired up as they locked eyes and went nose-to-nose for their final faceoff before sharing the octagon.

MAX HOLLOWAY AND CHARLES OLIVEIRA GO NOSE-TO-NOSE IN A BMF-WORTHY FINAL FACEOFF 🔥 #UFC326pic.twitter.com/unBM3nqNSd

— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) March 7, 2026

Check out the video above to see the Holloway vs. Oliveira BMF title staredown from UFC 326 ceremonial weigh-ins.

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: UFC 326 video: Holloway, Oliveira go nose-to-nose in final faceoff

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Ava Heiden scored 16 points and Hannah Stuelke finished with 13 points and five rebounds despite playing with an injured right elbow, leading No. 9 Iowa past 10th-seeded Illinois 64-58 on Friday night and into the Big Ten Tournament semifinals.

The Hawkeyes (25-5) have won seven straight and need two more wins to capture their fifth conference tourney crown in eight years. Taylor Stremlow had nine points and six assists, while Journey Houston grabbed 12 rebounds for Iowa.

Jasmine Brown-Haggard finished with 22 points and Berry Wallace added 13 for Illinois. The conference's youngest team played its third game in three nights after advancing to the quarterfinal round following wins over Wisconsin and No. 18 Michigan State.

Stuelke's return seemed to reinvigorate the Hawkeyes. She was injured during Iowa's victory over the Fighting Illini on Feb. 26 and missed the Hawkeyes' regular-season finale last weekend with what coach Jan Jensen described as a “pretty severe” injury.

But it didn't seem to bother Stuelke, who went 6 of 11 from the field and helped Iowa take control quickly before getting some extra rest late in the game.

The Hawkeyes used an early 12-2 run to take a 19-7 lead late in the first quarter and the Illini spent the rest of the game futilely playing catch-up. Iowa extended the margin to 34-18 late in the second quarter and led 37-23 at the half.

The Hawkeyes led by double digits, extending the margin to as much as 53-31 early in the fourth, until Illinois finally cut the deficit to nine in the final minute.

Up next

Illinois: Will find out where it goes and who it plays on selection weekend.

Iowa: Faces either Oregon or No. 8 Michigan in Saturday's second semifinal game in Indy.

___

Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here. AP women’s college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-womens-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/womens-college-basketball

In today's college basketball world of NIL money and an active transfer portal, players staying at one school for their entire career is an increasing rarity.

UNC currently has one of those rarities on its men's basketball roster: senior captain Seth Trimble. Before Trimble, North Carolina had Leaky Black.

Black began his collegiate career under Roy Williams in the 2019-20 season, later ending it three seasons ago under Hubert Davis. Black, a lockdown defender who holds UNC's program record for games played, averaged 5.5 points, 4.7 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 155 appearances (130 starts).

Now in his third season of professional basketball, Black is a member of the Washington Wizards. In his first start for Washington on Thursday night, Black scored a career-high 16 points in 39 minutes.

Black sank five of his 12 shots from the field, including a 4-of-9 mark from 3-point land, plus he made both his free throws. Black added three rebounds and an assist, showcasing that same, well-rounded ability in the nation's capital that he did in Chapel Hill.

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Undrafted in the 2023 NBA Draft, Black spent his first professional season with the Charlotte Hornets, starting three of the 26 NBA games he appeared in. On a 2-way contract with his hometown NBA squad, Black played plenty more Year One games with the NBA G League's Greensboro Swarm.

Black joined the G League's Capital City Go-Go in October 2024, finally getting a 2-way contract with Washington last month. With the Wizards in yet another rebuilding year, Black likely stays on their roster, particularly as he looks to carve out a full-time NBA role.

Follow us @TarHeelsWire on X and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of North Carolina Tar Heels news, notes and opinions.

This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: Leaky Black has career-high 16 points in 1st Washington Wizards start

The Los Angeles Lakers suffered a difficult loss to the Denver Nuggets, 120-113, on Thursday after giving up the first 11 points of the game. Now, they will have to quickly turn around and return home to host the Indiana Pacers on Friday evening.

While the Pacers are in last place in the Eastern Conference with a 15-47 record, the Lakers don't have the luxury of taking any team lightly these days. That is especially true given their updated injury report for Friday's matchup.

LeBron James, who took a nasty fall on Thursday after making a layup and hurt his elbow, will be out of action. So will starting center Deandre Ayton, who left Thursday's game early and was ruled out due to knee soreness, and backup big man Maxi Kleber.

Lakers’ injury report vs. IND tonight: pic.twitter.com/du3ZK8ipw2

— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) March 6, 2026

After Friday, the Lakers will host the New York Knicks on Sunday afternoon before facing off against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday. Obviously, the hope is that they will be back at full strength for both of those games.

They currently hold a 37-25 record and are in sixth place in the Western Conference.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Lakers give status updates on LeBron, Deandre Ayton for Friday's game

Mar. 6—GRAND FORKS — The first time Sean Hogan and Steve Metcalf met with organizers of the Spengler Cup, they found themselves trying to convince everyone that a college hockey all-star team would be competitive at the annual European professional hockey tournament.

"There was some trepidation going into the tournament," said Hogan, the executive director of College Hockey Inc.

By the end of the 2025 Spengler Cup, the college hockey all-star team was the talk of the tournament.

The U.S. Collegiate Selects reached the final of the six-team tournament, falling to host HC Davos in the championship game.

The team's victories over Davos (in pool play) and HC Sparta Praha (Czechia) captured the locals' attention.

"They couldn't believe how talented the players were," Hogan said. "The understanding of the level of college hockey around the world isn't always what we know it is."

Metcalf, the team's general manager and commissioner of Hockey East, said: "They were very impressed with our team. They didn't know what we were going to bring. I think people thought, 'Are you bringing some kids over here to play hockey?' After one game, everyone was like, 'Whoa, yes, you have some players.'

"People were enthralled with the speed at which we played. They enjoyed these younger guys who played with such skill and pace. They thought the game we played was so fun to watch. Then, we started getting results to go with it."

U.S. Collegiate Selects coach Guy Gadowsky told the Herald before the tournament that he hoped the team would perform well enough to earn an invite in the future.

They might not have to wait long.

Spengler Cup officials have been in discussions with the U.S. Collegiate Selects about returning to the tournament next year.

"Both parties are interested," Metcalf said. "I'm optimistic we'll be doing it again. We don't have an invitation yet, but perhaps (soon)."

Hogan added: "I'd imagine we'll get some details of what this will look like in the future in not too long."

So far, three of the six participants have been announced for the 2026 event, which is scheduled for Dec. 26-31 in Davos. The others are Swedish powerhouse Frölunda HC, Swiss-based SC Langnau Tigers and host HC Davos.

The 2025 U.S. Collegiate Selects team featured players from all six college hockey conferences. UND junior defensemen Jake Livanavage and Abram Wiebe were among the participants.

The Selects jumped into the tournament with only a couple of practices together under their belts, but thrived against European professionals.

"I knew it was going to be great," Hogan said. "I had high expectations going in, but it surpassed my expectations. From the in-game experience — every seat is filled to capacity, the fans are heavily involved — to the player experience, it was outstanding. It certainly helped that we were competitive. The town bought into the underdog mentality of college players taking on professional players."

The Spengler Cup offers prize money to teams based on their finish. Metcalf said he's still finalizing financial details — prize money and expenses — with tournament officials, but he's confident they will make money on it.

Metcalf also said they're hoping to get some prize money to the players, but they're still working through logistics on how they can do it.

The experience has had several lasting impacts, according to officials.

A president of another Spengler Cup team approached Metcalf, wanting to sign one of the U.S. Collegiate Selects for the second half of the season. A parent has relayed to Metcalf that pro interest in their son has raised exponentially since the tournament.

Hogan said College Hockey Inc., has received several inquiries from European players, asking how they can get to the NCAA level after watching the Spengler Cup.

The whole experience has made college hockey officials eager to return.

"I would say it was incredible," Metcalf said. "Some used the word 'magical.' It was just a really incredible hockey experience and life experience as well. I think we wanted to go over there and represent college hockey and show what we're all about. We certainly did that."

One could argue that in terms of a global audience, this might be a rather high profile FA Cup fifth round matchup. Wrexham may be from the lower leagues, but they have a relatively large following in the United States thanks to the ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ docuseries that has followed the team’s acquisition by Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac (née McElhenney) and their subsequent rise up the pyramid. And it’s not been just all glitz and glamour and Hollywood fakery. In fact, they’re going for their fourth successive promotion, something that’s never been done before in English football history.

Despite that attention, neither side are likely to take it too seriously. Chelsea are in the midst a run of massive fixtures in both the Premier League and the Champions League coming up, while Wrexham are embroiled in a classically close Championship fight for the promotion playoff places. They play Hull City, three points and one spot above them in fifth, on Tuesday.

That said, beating Chelsea at the Racecourse would make for some amazing television.

Date / Time: Saturday, March 7, 2026, 17.45 GMT; 12:45pm EST; 11:15pm IST
Venue: Racecourse Ground, Wrexham, Wales
Referee: Peter Bankes (on pitch); Paul Howard (VAR)
Forecast: Cool; chance of rain

On TV: BBC One (UK); none (USA); Sony TEN 2 (India); SuperSport MaXimo 2 (NGA); elsewhere
Streaming: BBC iPlayer (UK); ESPN Select (USA); Sony LIV (India); DStv Now (NGA)

Wrexham team news: In a notoriously competitive Championship, Wrexham managed to establish themselves initially by being very hard to beat: only the top three teams have lost fewer matches all season. Lately however, they have been turning those draws into wins, making their promotion playoff push and looking to complete their historic rise from non-league to Premier League in just four seasons.

They’ve had plenty of financial backing to make that happen of course, but they’ve also made some shrewd transfer decisions along the way, putting sentimentality aside as necessary, and upgrading the squad to keep moving up the divisions. It would be fascinating to see them deal with the challenge of staying in the Premier League, and hopefully we’ll get to see it someday soon.

There have been a few constants as well, including defender Max Cleworth (a Wrexham academy product) and goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo (who first joined in League Two on loan from Arsenal before making the switch permanent), and perhaps most importantly, manager Phil Parkinson, whom we might remember as the manager of third division Bradford City back in 2014-15, when they beat the Premier League champions-to-be at the Bridge, 4-2 in the FA Cup. That match was thankfully not televised, but it does have its own whole Wikipedia entry as one of the greatest upsets in the modern history of this competition.

Among last summer’s key arrivals were leading goalscorers Kieffer Moore (veteran of one Premier League campaign with AFC Bournemouth), Nathan Broadhead (was with Ipswich Town in the Prem as well), and attacking midfielder Josh Windass (son of Dean), plus midfielder George Dobson and defenders Dominic Hyam and Callum Doyle, the latter out of the Manchester City academy. Midfielder Ryan Longman is another key player, and product of the Brighton academy. Don’t let BlueCo see!

Wrexham do have a few injury concerns of note, including knocks to Dobson and Broadhead, a hamstring concern for right back Issa Kaboré, and longer-term absences for the likes of Ben Sheaf, Matty James, Liberato Cacace, and Lewis Brunt.

“When players are out, it presents an opportunity for somebody else to step in, and as we’ve done this season already, we’ve adapted players […] That underdog fighting spirit has got to be there because we know we’re up against a team that are Club World Champions and they’ve got a lot of talent. However, It’s all about us giving a really good account of ourselves, and we’ll see where that takes us on the night.”

-Phil Parkinson; source: Wrexham AFC

Chelsea team news: Chelsea’s own injury situation is actually pretty good, all things considered. Levi Colwill has been out all season, but everyone else is either back already or getting close to returning — including Jamie Gittens, Dário Essugo, and Estêvão. It’s unfortunate that young Steve-o will miss out on this one, but it’s important that his hamstring injury doesn’t linger beyond these few weeks.

Head coach Liam Rosenior is still quite likely to rotate heavily and give minutes to players who haven’t seen much action lately, such as Liam Delap, Benoît Badiashile, or the returning Roméo Lavia. Youngsters Jesse Derry and Ryan Kavuma-McQueen have also traveled with the squad, so ideally they’d get a few minutes as well.

Perhaps the most watched decision from Rosenior will be in goal, where Filip Jörgensen was given a surprise start on Wednesday and where we now supposedly have an open competition between him and Robert Sánchez.

Previously: We’ve played Wrexham twice in recent summer friendlies in the US, in 2023 and 2024, but we haven’t played them competitively since the early 80s: six times in the league (three shared seasons in the old second division) and three times in the FA Cup. Amusingly, all three FA Cup matches occurred as part of one (1) Round 4 matchup: the initial game that ended in a draw, the replay that also ended in a draw, and then finally a 2-1 win for the Blues at the Racecourse: Micky Droy and Alan Mayes with the goals.

Mar. 6—GRAND FORKS — The

Penrose Cup

has already started making its rounds in town.

UND first-year head coach Dane Jackson has heard plenty from supporters as well.

"Lots of people giving congratulations," Jackson said. "Some people are saying, 'Nice job, now focus on the next one.' That's kind of our mindset. It was great to win, a ton of pride in that. I think guys had fun with it. Now, we're saying, 'Let's get refocused and ready for the next.'"

It's playoff season in Grand Forks.

UND will host Omaha in a best-of-three National Collegiate Hockey Conference quarterfinal series in Ralph Engelstad Arena. Game 1 is set for 7:07 p.m. Friday.

"The time we won the playoff title was in our rink, so hopefully we can keep that mojo going," Jackson said. "The main thing we're trying to focus on is playing our good, hard game. If we do that, we've got a great chance. We have good depth. We have good players at all positions. Guys are really buying in and trying to play the right way. If you add up those good parts, and stick to our process of competing hard for 60 minutes, we have a good chance to beat anybody."

This is the fourth consecutive year that UND and Omaha have met in the NCHC playoffs, the third time it has occurred in a quarterfinal series.

In 2023 and 2025, UND traveled to Omaha's Baxter Arena and knocked out the slightly favored Mavericks. The 2023 series went to three games. Last year, UND won in two games, rallying from down two goals in the third period on Saturday.

In 2024, Omaha beat UND in an NCHC semifinal game in St. Paul's Xcel Energy Center.

"They've had a great season," Omaha coach Mike Gabinet said. "They won the Penrose. They've been doing a lot of great things there.

"It's fun for a new opponent here and a chance to play them again. They've improved, we've improved. Looking forward to a really good competition here this weekend."

UND swept Omaha 4-0 in the regular season.

The Fighting Hawks beat the Mavericks 7-2 and 4-1 in Omaha in November. They beat them 4-1 and 3-1 in Grand Forks in December. But the games were competitive. Omaha outshot UND by nine in the four games combined.

"I think the scores a couple times have been lopsided, but I always felt they were close games and they were just kind of some junk goals at the end," Jackson said. "I felt like they were still all close, hard games."

The good news for UND? It won't have to travel for the NCHC tournament. The entire tournament will be played at the site of the higher seed this season, and UND is the top seed.

The Fighting Hawks have been nearly unbeatable in NCHC playoff games in The Ralph.

They're 17-1 and have won 16 in a row dating back to Game 2 of the 2015 NCHC quarterfinals against Colorado College. Their lone NCHC playoff title came in 2021, when the tournament was moved to The Ralph due to the coronavirus pandemic.

UND has not experienced the same success away from The Ralph in NCHC playoffs, going 7-13-1.

"It's going to be exciting," UND freshman forward Josh Zakreski said. "The Ralph is really going to be coming strong. They're going to bring their support. It's going to be fun. I'm definitely excited to get the playoffs underway."

UND OMA

25-8-1 Rec 12-22

3 NPI 41

3.9 (3rd) Off 2.7 (42nd)

2.3 (8th) Def 3.5 (52nd)

26.9 (8th) PP 21.8 (21st)

83.0 (15th) PK 76.6 (50th)

53.8 (5th) FO 47.0 (54th)

.902 (24th) SP .892 (45th)

Note: National rank in parentheses. Categories are record, NPI, offense (goals per game), defense (goals against per game), power play percentage, penalty kill percentage, faceoff percentage and team save percentage.

UND — None known

Omaha — None known

Nobody's been hotter lately for the Mavericks than freshman forward Jérémy Loranger. The Columbus Blue Jackets draft pick has eight points in the last seven games and has done most of his damage on the power play. Six of those eight points have come on the man advantage. He was named the NCHC's Rookie of the Month for February.

"He had some areas of growth early in the season," Gabinet said. "But when you stick with it and you're coachable and you take personal responsibility, you get better. We're seeing that. I'm a big fan of how he plays. He'll be a big part of our team down the stretch here."

You knew this one was coming, right? Nobody's been a thorn in the side of the Omaha Mavericks and goaltender Simon Latkoczy like Dylan James. He scored three times on Latkoczy in the 2022 Clark Cup Finals. He's done it six times at the college level and he's scored nine goals against Omaha, nearly 20% of his career total. James gets one last crack at Omaha and Latkoczy this weekend.

Things are tightening up at the end of the season. UND has gone to overtime in four of its last eight games. With the playoffs arriving, it's hard to see that changing.

Friday: UND 3, Omaha 2

Saturday: UND 4, Omaha 3, OT

TV: Midco Sports (GF Ch. 27/622 HD). Alex Heinert play-by-play, Jim Scanlan analyst, Taylor Budge and Erik Fabian at the desk.

Stream: NCHChockey.com/tv.

Radio: The Fox (96.1 FM). Tim Hennessy play-by-play, Mike LaMoine analyst.

GFH:

Will college hockey send a team back to the Spengler Cup?

GFH:

After Ben Strinden's gesture, a Hallock is inspired to give back

GFH:

Will UND be in Sioux Falls for the regional?

GFH:

Simon Latkoczy has stolen playoff games before, can he do it again?

GFH:

NCHC announces major award finalists

GFH:

Cole Smith traded to Vegas Golden Knights

GFH:

UND plans green-out for all home playoff games

GFH:

Matt Greene moves behind the bench in Los Angeles

Scoring

21 Ben Strinden (NSH), sr, f, 15-18—33

29 Ellis Rickwood, sr, f, 8-24—32

17 Cole Reschny (CGY), fr, f, 5-26—31

26 Dylan James (DET), sr, f, 17-10—27

9 Will Zellers (BOS), fr, f, 17-10—27

25 Abram Wiebe (CGY), jr, d, 5-21—26

4 Jake Livanavage, jr, d, 5-20—25

7 Mac Swanson (PIT), so, f, 8-16—24

18 Keaton Verhoeff (2026), fr, d, 6-14—20

15 Jack Kernan, fr, f, 8-7—15

8 Ollie Josephson (SEA), fr, f, 5-10—15

19 Cody Croal, so, f, 7-4—11

27 Anthony Menghini, jr, f, 5-6—11

20 Cade Littler (CGY), so, f, 4-7—11

13 Sam Laurila (NYI), fr, d, 1-9—10

14 Tyler Young, sr, f, 4-5—9

6 E.J. Emery (NYR), so, d, 3-6—9

22 David Klee (SJS), fr, f, 3-3—6

24 Josh Zakreski, fr, f, 3-2—5

16 Andrew Strathmann (CBJ), so, d, 1-4—5

2 Bennett Zmolek, sr, d, 1-2—3

3 Jayden Jubenvill, so, d, 0-2—2

28 Dalton Andrew, so, f, 0-0—0

11 Ian Engel, fr, d, 0-0—0

35 Jan Špunar, fr, g, 0-0—0

31 Gibson Homer, sr, g, 0-0—0

1 Zach Sandy, sr, g, dnp

Goaltending

35 Jan Špunar, fr, 16-3-1, 1.93, .917

31 Gibson Homer, sr, 9-5, 2.71, .889

1 Zach Sandy, fr, dnp

Scoring

23 Maxime Pellerin, so, f, 8-12—20

38 Trevor Wong, so, f, 5-14—19

12 Luke Woodworth, fr, f, 4-15—19

86 Jérémy Loranger (CBJ), fr, f, 7-11—18

7 Griffin Ludtke, sr, d, 0-17—17

72 Marcus Nguyen, fr, f, 11-5—16

71 Brett Hyland (WSH), so, f, 8-8—16

11 Samuel Huo, sr, f, 6-9—15

24 Marc Lajoie, so, d, 6-7—13

19 Sean Tschigerl (ANA), so, f, 5-8—13

21 Tyler Rollwagen, sr, f, 7-5—12

22 Aidan de La Gorgendiere, jr, d, 3-9—12

10 Jacob Guévin, sr, d, 3-6—9

44 Spencer Sova, fr, d, 2-7—9

18 Myles Hilman, so, f, 5-3—8

13 Jacob Slipec, sr, f, 4-3—7

25 Cam Mitchell, sr, f, 2-4—6

8 Marcus Broberg, so, d, 1-5—6

9 Cameron Briere, fr, f, 2-3—5

27 Joel Plante, fr, f, 1-1—2

6 Ryan McCleary (PIT), so, d, 1-0—1

26 Chase LaPinta, so, f, 0-1—1

5 Joe Gramer, so, d, 0-1—1*

73 Dawson Cowan, fr, g, 0-1—1

3 Hunter McInnes, fr, d, 0-0—0

30 Simon Latkoczy, sr, g, 0-0—0

1 Will Craig, jr, g, dnp

Goaltending

30 Simon Latkoczy, sr, 8-14, 3.20, .899

73 Dawson Cowan, fr, 4-8, 3.21, .901

1 Will Craig, jr, dnp

*Gramer left the team for Seattle (WHL)

Mar. 6—GRAND FORKS — Omaha and No. 3 UND are meeting in Game 1 of their National Collegiate Hockey Conference quarterfinal playoff series in Ralph Engelstad Arena.

Time: 7:07 p.m.

Place: Ralph Engelstad Arena.

TV: Midco Sports (GF Ch. 27/622 HD).

Radio:

The Fox (96.1 FM).

Stream:

NCHChockey.com/tv.

UND 1, Omaha 0 — Cade Littler 5 (Jack Kernan, Ollie Josephson) 7:26 (pp). UND strikes on its first power-play chance of the night. UND defenseman Abram Wiebe gets the puck to Josephson in the bumper. Josephson hands it off to Kernan, who rips a shot from the top of the right circle. Littler tips it home for his fifth of the season. It's his fourth goal against Omaha in the playoffs. He had three last season.

Forwards

26 Dylan James—29 Ellis Rickwood—24 Josh Zakreski

7 Mac Swanson—17 Cole Reschny—15 Jack Kernan

19 Cody Croal—8 Ollie Josephson—14 Tyler Young

27 Anthony Menghini—20 Cade Littler—28 Dalton Andrew

Defensemen

4 Jake Livanavage—2 Bennett Zmolek

25 Abram Wiebe—18 Keaton Verhoeff

16 Andrew Strathmann—6 E.J. Emery

13 Sam Laurila

Goaltenders

35 Jan Špunar

31 Gibson Homer

1 Zach Sandy

Not in lineup: F Ben Strinden (illness), F Will Zellers (illness), F David Klee (illness), D Jayden Jubenvill, D Ian Engel

Forwards

38 Trevor Wong—11 Samuel Huo—72 Marcus Nguyen

71 Brett Hyland—19 Sean Tschigerl—86 Jérémy Loranger

18 Myles Hilman—12 Luke Woodworth—23 Maxime Pellerin

21 Tyler Rollwagen—25 Cameron Mitchell—13 Jacob Slipec

Defensemen

7 Griffin Ludtke—8 Marcus Broberg

22 Aidan de La Gorgendiere—10 Jacob Guévin

24 Marc Lajoie—6 Ryan McCleary

44 Spencer Sova

Goaltenders

30 Simon Latkoczy

73 Dawson Cowan

1 Will Craig

Not in lineup: F Chase LaPinta, F Joel Plante, F Cameron Briere, D Hunter McInnes

Referees — Jake Jackson and Ryan Hersey

Linesmen — Kyle Stephens and Tyler Landman

Supervisor — TBA

With the illnesses to Ben Strinden, Will Zellers and David Klee, UND sophomore Dalton Andrew is moving into the lineup for the fourth time this season. Andrew played on Nov. 15 against Arizona State (7:25), Dec. 6 at St. Cloud State (1:01) and Jan. 2 against Mercyhurst (11:59). . . Josh Zakreski and Jack Kernan are sliding into the spots where Strinden and Zellers likely would have been. . . UND has won 16 consecutive home playoff games dating back to Game 2 of the 2015 NCHC quarterfinals against Colorado College. . . The Fighting Hawks knocked Omaha out of the NCHC playoffs in 2023 and 2025 quarterfinals.

Alex Slitz via Getty Images

Katie Ledecky is keeping fans waiting for the next heavyweight matchup between the nine-time Olympic gold medalist and Canadian star Summer McIntosh.

Ledecky, who was seeded to swim in the 200m freestyle against McIntosh at the Westmont Pro Swim Series scratched the event in favor of the longer 1500m freestyle.

Although there was no rematch between the world's best, both Ledecky and McIntosh delivered Friday night, posting some of the fastest times in the world this year in their respective events.

Ledecky was up first, dominating the pool in the 1500m freestyle, stopping the clock in 16:40.86, 41.66 seconds faster than second place. Her swim is another top ten time the world this year. Ledecky already occupies the top spot from her mark set at the Austin Pro Swim Series. Her swim on January 14th was the second fastest performance in history behind her world record set back in 2018.

Later in the session McIntosh smashed the fastest time in the world by 2.82 seconds, winning the 200m freestyle in a blazing 1:53.80. The previous mark was set in January by American Claire Weinstein, who won bronze at the World Championships last summer. McIntosh is the fifth fastest performer in history in the event with her best time being 1:53.65, set in 2023.

On Wednesday night Ledecky defeated McIntosh in the 800m freestyle, which ended up being the only time they raced head-to-head this week. They posted the first and third fastest times in the world this year in the event, posting an 8:08.57 and 8:10.45 respectively.

Ledecky’s time was the 13th fastest performance in history. She has won the last four Olympic 800m free gold medals and won her seventh straight 800m free at the World Championships last summer, becoming the first swimmer to claim seven world titles in one event.

Last night McIntosh won the 200-meter butterfly in 2:04.72. The nineteen year old went under two minutes and five seconds for the tenth time in her career, which is three more times than any other women in history. She will contest the 200m IM on Saturday, and will try to go three for three in Westmont.

The Pro Swim Series stop in Westmont finishes up Saturday, with the finals starting at 7 p.m. ET on Peacock.

Dana White just dropped another teaser for fight fans ahead of Saturday’s official UFC White House fight card announcement.

On Friday, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) CEO took to social media to leak a secret photo of the UFC White House matchmaker’s card from inside UFC’s infamous war room. This is in advance to Saturday’s planned reveal during UFC 326’sParamount+ broadcast.

Check out White’s preview photo below:

There are two main takeaways from White’s post. First, the official name of UFC’s upcoming White House card will be “Freedom Fights 250 – The White House.” Of course, UFC is helping ring in President Donald Trump’s birthday bash and the 250th anniversary of the United States, but this names seems to be lacking a bit of pizzazz. Maybe “UFC White House” would have been a better name to promote.

The second takeaway is that the White House card will feature two UFC title fights and six fights in total. While the total number of fights was revealed earlier this year the two title fights is a bit lower than previous rumored. It seems like the bare minimum for a card of this nature, but maybe UFC matchmakers pull through with Jon Jones vs. Alex Pereira and Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje. Fight fans would be fine with that.

All will be revealed tomorrow night at UFC 326.

Stick with Mania for more UFC White House fight card news and coverage!

After wrapping up the regular season on Sunday, this week, the USC women’s basketball team traveled to Indianapolis for the Big Ten Tournament. The Trojans entered the tournament as the No. 9 seed, and opened play with a second round matchup against No. 8 seed Washington on Thursday.

Unfortunately for the Women of Troy, their stay in Indianapolis this year was quite brief. USC fell 76-64 to Washington, ending any chance that the team had of making a run in the conference tournament.

Big Ten Freshman of the Year Jazzy Davidson picked a bad time to have her worst game of the season. Davidson had just eight points, one rebound, and one assist, while making only two of her 13 field goal attempts.

The Trojans should still be an NCAA Tournament team. But they will enter March Madness having lost four in a row after a six-game winning streak prior.

Obviously, anything can happen in March. But with the way this team has played of late, the unfortunate reality is that it is hard to see the Trojans going very far in the tournament this year.

The good news for Lindsay Gottlieb’s team is that they now have over a week off until Selection Sunday, and two full weeks until they play their next game. USC must use that time to regroup if this team wants to have any shot at making a postseason run.

This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: USC women’s basketball falls 76-64 to Washington in Big Ten Tournament

After a 10-month hiatus, Celtics fans poured onto Causeway and into TD Garden to welcome back their championship-winning superstar after a ruptured Achilles.

Jayson Tatum was back in the starting lineup after 297 on the sidelines — stemming from an injury sustained in the 2025 playoffs.

Fans got to TD Garden early Friday night with re-energized expectations for the team’s championship hopes.

“I think they’re contenders,,” said one fan. “With Jayson Tatum back, I think they have a chance to go back again.”

Another added, “Obviously, it just adds that extra little spark that I think the team needs.”

The question fans had to ask: “Is the superstar’s return too soon?”

One fan, Shawn Asselin, said, “There’s always that risk he could reaggravate it. But, I think he’s been working really hard. He knows his body. He’s ready.”

Patricia Almquist, who runs a Celtics shop on Canal Street, added, “I think he’s coming in a little too soon. I don’t want to see him aggravate his injury.”

Some fans weren’t able to get the popular ticket. Instead, they bellied up to local bars to be a part of the buzz.

“It’s the biggest game of the year,” said Colin Kirkpatrick.

Another fan finished, “I think we’re going to close the eastern conference, and take it home for the city of Boston.”

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

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With their championship window all but closed, the Golden State Warriors have made the most of the sliver of space left open. The veteran squad is going down with the ship. As Stephen Curry is in the twilight stage of his career, the NBA dynasty hopes to remain competitive.

That's something the Oklahoma City Thunder aim for. One NBA championship banner already hanging from the rafters, they hope to have the same success in the 2020s that the Warriors did in the 2010s — several Larry O'Brien trophies and an all-time guard who defined an era.

Even if both fanbases have grown to hate each other over the years to toxic levels, that hasn't spilled over to the court. Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault talked about his admiration for the Warriors and their ability to play competitive basketball for a decade-plus with mostly the same cast of characters.

The Thunder will host the Warriors on primetime Saturday night. It could preview a Round 1 series as Golden State has remained in the postseason picture despite Curry's nagging knee injuries and Jimmy Butler III's season-ending torn ACL.

One example of that is the Warriors' recent overtime win over the Houston Rockets. Playing on the road with a short-handed rotation littered with two-way players, Brandin Podziemski and Draymond Green served the upset over NBA All-Star players Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun.

Smiling widely across his face, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said the upset win had a playoff-esque feel to it. He also brashly reminded folks of Golden State's success over the years in Houston. They had some of the best NBA playoff series throughout the 2010s.

"I think there's something to guys that expect to win the game that they play. That's what I'd say about Green and Horford," Daigneault said. "Horford was obviously here. I know that really well with him and Green from a distance. When those guys line up and lace them up, they expect to win and are disappointed when they don't. That’s a contagious thing.”

Heavy is the head that wears the crown. If any NBA franchise can sympathize with what the Thunder have gone through this season, it's the Warriors. They had a decade-long run where the rest of the league grew jealous of their success. OKC hopes to carry Golden State's torch as the new version of that dominant squad.

Mark Daigneault on the Warriors: “I think there's something to guys that expect to win the game that they play. That's what I'd say about Green and Horford. Horford was obviously here. I know that really well with him and Green from a distance. When those guys line up and lace… pic.twitter.com/Ketgu2S8cs

— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) March 6, 2026

This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: Why Mark Daigneault has ultimate respect for Warriors' continuity

Jayson Tatum stats today: How Celtics star fared in return to court following 2025 Achilles tear originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum tore his Achilles tendon on May 12, 2005. Less than 10 months later, he returned to the court on Friday, March 6, when the Celtics hosted the Dallas Mavericks. 

Tatum was expected to be on a minutes restriction in his first game back from injury but still started against Dallas. He provides a boost to the Boston squad, which is 41-21 on the year—good for first in the Atlantic Division and second in the Eastern Conference, behind only the Detroit Pistons (45-16).

Here’s a look at how the Celtics star performed in his return to the court.

SN's NBA HQ: Scores | Schedule | Standings

Jayson Tatum stats today

Stats are accurate as of halftime.

• Minutes: 14
• Points: 5
• Rebounds: 5
• Assists: 5
• Turnovers: 1
• Steals: 0
• Blocks: 0
• Fouls: 2
• FG: 2-8
• 3FG: 1-4
• FT: 0-0

Tatum has been alright getting his teammates involved, but he has struggled to find his shot from the floor. He began the game 0-6 overall and 0-3 from beyond the arc. Tatum finally scored with about one minute left in the first half, and quickly followed it up with his first three-pointer of the game. 

Halftime Score: Celtics 58, Mavericks 53

MORE: What to know about Dillon Brooks' DUI arrest

Jayson Tatum highlights

Tatum heads to the court for pre-game warm-ups.

Chills pic.twitter.com/0iXmze7KNZ

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) March 7, 2026

Tatum gets introduced for the first time this season.

Tatum is back pic.twitter.com/CNBmxeXSL8

— Shabazz 💫 (@ShowCaseShabazz) March 7, 2026

The Celtics star gets on the box score with an assist in the first quarter. 

Jayson Tatum immediately making Neemias Queta’s life much easier pic.twitter.com/tB2MdRjjWz

— Noa Dalzell 🏀 (@NoaDalzell) March 7, 2026

Tatum went for a dunk in the second quarter but showed he still has some rust to shake off. 

Next time, JT 😅

Jayson Tatum attempts the dunk in his return from injury. pic.twitter.com/gcYUxaqB5l

— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) March 7, 2026

Here are Tatum's first points back after his injury. 

WELCOME BACK JT ☘️

TD Garden was chanting after Tatum's first points 💚 https://t.co/sMzOY7Y561pic.twitter.com/Qu9iMxIPrP

— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) March 7, 2026

Jayson Tatum injury details

Tatum tore his Achilles on May 12, 2025. The season-ending injury came in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals when the Celtics were facing the New York Knicks. There was only 2:58 left in the game when he went down with the non-contact injury. The Knicks would go on to win the series, but lost in the Eastern Conference Finals to the Indiana Pacers, who eventually lost in the NBA Finals to the Oklahoma City Thunder. 

How old is Jayson Tatum

Tatum was born on March 3, 1998. He recently turned 28 years old and is playing in his ninth career season, all with Boston. 

The Paralympics have started in Milan and one of the athletes expected to win gold visited Pittsburgh recently.

Declan Farmer already has three gold medals in sled hockey and he told Channel 11 Sports Director Jenna Harner he’s looking for more than just number four.

Declan Farmer put on a stick-handling show at DICKS’s House of Sports at Ross Park Mall.

He’s taken his sled hockey skills to Milan, ready to fight for his fourth Paralympic gold medal.

“It’s a huge honor to wear the USA across the chest. Been fortunate to do it for a while now, since I was pretty young and going to my fourth games, I think that appreciation grows as you mature,” Farmer said.

That’s not the only inspiration he’s taking with him onto the ice.

“It’s an incredible honor to go to a Paralympics where you’re playing for your country, but you’re also part of something bigger than that,” Farmer said. “With the Paralympics being, you know, a big global movement pushing inclusivity for people with disabilities. It’s really a lot and a huge honor, and I don’t think anyone on our team takes it lightly.”

Farmer made his first Paralympic team at just 16-years-old. He’s also the first US sled hockey player to score more than 200 career goals.

“You can’t control what happens on the ice in a game, because, you know, hockey is a game with a lot of luck and bounces, so all we can do is prepare to be like in the best spot to handle that kind of diversity,” Farmer said.

Sled hockey is still a relatively new sport - only added to the Paralympics schedule in 1994. The players have raised the bar ever since.

“The ones on the national team now, we’re the ones that are kind of developing, like the next skills and the new moves that’ll kind of, you know, raise the bar of the sport to make it, you know, higher skilled sport, and just kind of raise that level of, you know, both interest for people to watch and like the caliber player it takes to make a national team,” Farmer said.

A team that wants to compete, win and bring home gold, but also a team that knows its responsibility is much larger than the score at the end of a game.

“The reality is, what we do on the ice can make a difference in, you know, kids lives, they see it, who maybe aren’t playing any sports, you know, they’re growing up with a disability, and that’ll get them out and to do something, you know, with teammates, and be collaborative and active, and all those things are great, and that’s an important part of it, for sure,” Farmer said.

The US para-sled hockey team gets started right away, playing its first game Saturday against Italy.

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Celtics' Nikola Vucevic Ruled Out With Injury Against Mavericks In Jayson Tatum's Season Debut originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Boston Celtics received fantastic news when forward Jayson Tatum announced his return to action against the Dallas Mavericks on Friday night, after being sidelined all season due to a torn Achilles.

However, Tatum's comeback was somewhat overshadowed in the first half when center Nikola Vucevic left the game with an injury. Early in the second quarter, the Celtics ruled Vucevic out for the remainder of the game with a right ring finger fracture.

The Celtics acquired Vucevic from the Chicago Bulls during the NBA trade deadline in February. Since joining Boston, Vucevic has appeared in 11 games, averaging 11.4 points and 7.8 rebounds, primarily coming off the bench.

All season, the Celtics have been waiting for Tatum to return, and now that he’s finally back, they face the loss of a key player who is crucial for their NBA playoff run.

The silver lining is that finger fractures typically don’t keep players out for long, but the Celtics need to adjust to playing with everyone on the court. Since Tatum and Vucevic have never played together, it would be beneficial to get a considerable amount of regular season reps together before the postseason kicks off next month.

More NBA: Joe Mazzulla Makes Surprising Jayson Tatum Announcement Before Season Debut

A pimp whose sex worker allegedly advertised on social media that she was willing to be anything from "arm candy" for a party to a "no strings attached girlfriend" has been charged with a slew of criminal charges in Kern County Superior Court.

The alleged pimp, Kevin Mays, was an assistant men's basketball coach and former player at Cal State Bakersfield.

Mays faces 11 charges, including pimping, possession of automatic firearms and high-capacity magazines, and possession of methamphetamine and marijuana with intent to sell. An investigation by the Bakersfield Police Department also led to separate charges citing Mays for possession of more than 600 images of youth or child pornography and distribution of obscene matter involving someone younger than 18.

Mays, who was arrested in September 2025, is being held without bail. He has pleaded not guilty, and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 13 .

The case, first reported by Shwetha Surendran of ESPN, has upended the athletic department at CSU Bakersfield. Longtime basketball coach Rod Barnes and athletic director Kyle Condor have left their jobs, and Condor filed a lawsuit against the school alleging wrongful termination, according to court documents obtained by The Times.

Read more:Former USC basketball player Destiny Littleton sends dispatches from where she's stuck in Israel

CSU Bakersfield officials said the allegations against Mays did not involve a student. Nevertheless, the school formed a commission to examine the athletic program and recommend changes.

“When CSU Bakersfield received an anonymous report in August of 2025 that a member of our coaching staff was engaged in human trafficking, we took immediate action in notifying university police and the Bakersfield Police Department," the school wrote in a statement. "Both agencies launched investigations that resulted in an arrest within days. Shortly after, the university terminated the coach.

"But the nature of the allegations devastated our campus community. We seized the opportunity to strengthen education and prevention efforts around human trafficking. To that end, we consulted with a local human trafficking expert and offered training and education focused on awareness and prevention for our campus community."

Police said the alleged victim is 23. In the advertisement she posted last summer, she stated that she charged $300 for a half hour and $500 for 60 minutes. Authorities conducted a sting operation in September, arranging to meet her in a hotel room that Mays rented.

In an interview with police after the operation, she referred to Mays as her boyfriend and said he paid for her travel accommodations in Oregon, Washington and Nevada in addition to California.

Read more:Chad Baker-Mazara’s dismissal from USC stemmed from more than one incident

Those locations were listed in an anonymous email to Barnes last fall titled "IMPORTANT MESSAGE 911 911."

"HE IS TRAFFICKING A GIRL BY THE NAME OF [redacted]," the email read, according to police records. "HE HAS BEEN TRAFFICKING THIS GIRL SINCE MAY."

Barnes turned over the email to university police, who attempted to contact the sender and received a subsequent email, according to ESPN. The tipster claimed to have known the alleged victim and Mays through previous travel for sex work. The person said Mays presented himself as a professional gambler and allegedly threatened to take away the tipster's child if the person exposed his activities.

Mays, who was born in Queens, N.Y., attended high school at St. John's Military Academy in Delafield, Wis., and played at Odessa Community College in Odessa, Texas, before transferring to CSU Bakersfield ahead of the 2014-2015 season.

“We are excited about signing Kevin as he fits our culture," Barnes said of Mays at the time.

A year later, as a senior forward, Mays helped CSU Bakersfield to a 24-10 record and scored 14 points and grabbed eight rebounds in the Roadrunners' first-round NCAA tournament loss to Oklahoma. He later returned to the school as a player-development coordinator.

In his application for the player-development position in 2019, Mays wrote that he was motivated by helping players improve on and off the court, according to school records obtained by ESPN.

"I gained lots of experience dealing with learning to lead young men and help them navigate the Division I experience in a successful manner," Mays wrote. "CSUB helped me tremendously, and I look forward to giving back."

Barnes was Mays' coach, and he hired his former player last fall, paying him $3,000 a month. Now, Mays is in jail awaiting trial and Barnes is unemployed.

"The safety and well-being of our students and all CSU Bakersfield community members remain our highest priority," the school said in its statement. "This work is sustained every day by the dedication of our faculty, staff and students. Their commitment to one another and to our shared values strengthens the culture of care and accountability we strive to build at CSUB.”

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

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

The Notre Dame baseball team founbd a good amount of success over the last few weeks against some mid-major schools and small schools, so you had to wonder how that might translate once they began ACC play. Well, in the ACC opener, Notre Dame took the Duke Blue Devils to the woodshed in a 10-4 win.

Jack Radel started on the bump for the Irish and threw 7 innings and allowed 4 hits, 1 ER, 2 walks, and 9 strikeouts on 92 pitches. Meanwhile the Irish offense went HAM by having 4 different players hitting homers.

Irish Defeat Blue Devils in ACC Opener

DURHAM, N.C. – Notre Dame scored nine two-out runs en route to a 10-4 win at Duke in the ACC opener for the Irish.

Jack Radel forced the Blue Devils into stranding a pair of runners in scoring position with his third strikeout of the inning in the bottom half of the first. The junior righty was efficient in the second inning by retiring the side in order on just six pitches with a ground out, a fly out and a three-pitch strikeout looking.

The Irish got on the scoreboard in the top of the third. Drew Berkland drilled a one-out double to the right-center gap, and Noah Coy used a single to the outfield to drive in Berkland for the 1-0 lead. Radel, meanwhile, induced a come-back grounder and made the flip over to first in more than enough time to force Duke into stranding a runner in the bottom half of the inning.

Radel tacked on two more Ks in the bottom of the fourth and needed just 11 pitches to retire the Blue Devils in order.

Drew Berkland doubled the Irish lead with a solo blast in the top of the fifth. Noah Coy drew a walk, and Mark Quatrani made his 100th career hit a memorable one with a two-run home run for a 4-0 Irish advantage. Bino Watters made it three homers in the inning with a solo shot in the next at-bat of the inning for a 5-0 Notre Dame lead. Jayce Lee and Parker Brzustewicz both added singles, and Davis Johnson was hit by a pitch to load the bases. A seeing-eye single by Mason Barth drove in Lee, and the Irish pushed the lead to 6-0.

Another three-up, three-down inning by Jack Radel kept the Duke offense at bay through five complete. The Blue Devils used a single to get a runner on base in the bottom of the sixth, but Radel and the Irish defense held strong as Notre Dame held the 6-0 lead through six complete.

The Blue Devils got on the scoreboard in the bottom of the seventh, but Jack Radel notched his ninth strikeout of the game before inducing a comeback grounder with a flip over to first to end the inning.

The Irish responded in the top of the eighth. Drew Berkland laced a one-out double, and Mark Quatrani delivered a two-out single through the right side to make it a 7-1 score. Bino Watters then drilled a double off the center field fence to plate Quatrani as the Irish went up 8-1. Jayce Lee punched a single up the middle to drive in Watters for a 9-1 Notre Dame lead.

Noah Coy made a great play at shortstop, and Parker Brzustewicz held on for the out at first before Mark Quatrani cut down a runner trying to steal as the Irish retired the Blue Devils quickly in the eighth.

Jamie Zee hit a line-drive homer with two outs in the top of the ninth as the Irish hit double-digit scoring for the fifth game in-a-row and held a 10-1 lead.

Duke plated three runs in the top of the ninth, but a stellar play by Jamie Zee at third ended the game by the 10-4 final score.

Drew Berkland went 3-for-4 with a home run and two doubles with three runs. Bino Watters was 3-for-5 at the dish with a home run, two doubles, two RBI and two runs. Mark Quatrani went 2-for-5 with a homer, three RBI and two runs. Jamie Zee added a home run, and Jayce Lee posted a pair of hits with an RBI and a run. Noah Coy added a hit, an RBI and a run while Parker Brzustewicz and Mason Barth each notched a hit.

Jack Radel posted another quality start and earned the win after going 7.0 and striking out nine, scattering four hits and allowing just one run. Eli Thurmond went 1.0 on the bump and allowed just one hit. Garrett Snyder closed out the final 1.0 on the hill for the Irish in the win.

Notre Dame (8-3) face Duke for the second game of the three-game series on Saturday starting at 1:00 p.m. ET.

GREENVILLE, SC — As No. 2 Vanderbilt faced elimination the SEC Tournament — trailing No. 7 Ole Miss by 22 in the fourth quarter of Friday night’s quarterfinals at Bon Secours Wellness Arena — Commodores head coach Shea Ralph was ejected from the game by a referee.

Ole Miss went on to win 89-78 and will play in the semifinals on Saturday.

With less than 10 minutes to play, SEC Player of the Year Mikayla Blakes was whistled for her fourth foul during a scuffle on the floor for a loose ball. Upset with the call, Ralph — who was voted SEC Coach of the Year — dashed onto the court and began yelling at the referees.

Microphones on the SEC Network broadcast clearly picked up part of what Ralph said to one official: “How? How is that a (expletive) foul? She dove. You can’t call that. You suck. You suck (expletive).”

Vanderbilt coach Shea Ralph was ejected from the SEC Tournament Quarterfinal vs. Ole Miss after this interaction with the referees. pic.twitter.com/CFC8phPuWf

— SEC Network (@SECNetwork) March 7, 2026

Just as Ralph’s husband — Vanderbilt associate coach Tom Garrick — was trying to get her to return to the bench, the referee blew his whistle, gave Ralph a tech and tossed her from the game. It's the first time Ralph has been ejected from a game in her five seasons as the head coach of the Commodores.

Before Ralph was escorted off the floor by a police officer, she gathered up her five starters in a brief huddle and delivered one last message. She then high-fived the players on her bench and left the floor.

Vanderbilt trailed by as much as 32 points in the game. Blakes started the game shooting 0-of-10 from the floor, but finished with 24 points on 8-of-26 shooting.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Vanderbilt coach Shea Ralph ejected in SEC Tournament vs. Ole Miss

During a blowout defeat to Ole Miss in the SEC tournament, Vanderbilt coach Shea Ralph was ejected with 9:25 remaining as she argued a foul call with referees. and her team trailing by 67-43.

The Commodores entered the conference tournament likely needing two wins to earn a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament. Instead, they were clobbered 89-78 by the Rebels. An increasingly frustrated Ralph was tossed as Vanderbilt trailed 67-43 after she stepped onto the court and swore at a referee. Each team was whistled for 13 fouls through the first three quarters.

Vanderbilt head coach Shea Ralph was just ejected after Mikayla Blakes picked up her fourth foul

“How is that a f***ing foul??” @NoCapSpaceWBBpic.twitter.com/rnKbjVD0CO

— Tyler DeLuca (@TylerDeLuca) March 7, 2026

Vanderbilt never truly challenged Ole Miss, scoring six points in the first quarter — its lowest total this season — and falling behind 23-2 in the blink of an eye. Mikayla Blakes, the nation’s leading scorer, was blanketed by the Rebels’ defense. She missed her first 10 field goal attempts and picked up three fouls in the first half, forcing her to sit for the final 4:35 before halftime.

Blakes missed 19 consecutive field goals against Ole Miss, including in a regular-season meeting between the teams. The presumptive All-American finally started to find her footing near the end of the third quarter, hitting two 3-pointers to end the quarter and help the Commodores close what had been a 32-point deficit to 24 when Ralph was ejected.

This story will be updated.

This article originally appeared in The Athletic.

Ole Miss Rebels, Vanderbilt Commodores, Women's College Basketball

2026 The Athletic Media Company

CHICAGO — The Chicago Bears are acquiring New England Patriots center Garrett Bradbury for a 2027 fifth-round draft pick, according to a report Friday evening.

NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport first reported the trade, which will fill a vacancy left by the unexpected retirement of Pro Bowl center Drew Dalman. The transaction won’t be official until the new league year begins Wednesday.

Bradbury has played seven seasons in the NFL, the first six with the Minnesota Vikings. Last season with the Patriots, he started all 17 regular-season games as well as a run to the Super Bowl that culminated with a 29-13 loss to the Seattle Seahawks.

Bradbury, 30, is a Charlotte, N.C., native whom the Vikings drafted at No. 18 out of North Carolina State in 2019. Last season with the Patriots, he played 100% of the snaps for the first 15 weeks but rested some snaps during the final two weeks in preparation for the playoffs.

Dalman played every offensive snap for the Bears last season, including two playoff games. The Bears officially placed him on the reserve/retired list Friday.

The 27-year-old Dalman informed the Bears of his decision to retire Tuesday, a source told the Chicago Tribune. His five-year NFL career ended with his first and only season in Chicago last year.

The 2026 offseason is in full swing, and it's another important one for the Chicago Bears, who are looking to get back to the postseason in head coach Ben Johnson's second season.

General manager Ryan Poles has some work to do to shore up key needs on the roster. After overhauling the offensive line last offseason, there is going to be an emphasis on improving the defense, a unit that is facing several decisions in free agency. But there's some work to be done with the salary cap before the start of the new league year as Chicago is currently a projected $4.11 million over the cap. After three straight years of top-10 picks, the Bears will have to wait to pick in the latter part of the first round (No. 25) in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Here at Bears Wire, we’re going position by position to break down where Chicago stands entering the 2026 offseason. Next up is cornerback, a position that was marred by injuries in 2025 but got quality play out of some unsuspecting players that are set to hit the market.

Who is on the roster?

• Jaylon Johnson
• Tyrique Stevenson
• Kyler Gordon
• Josh Blackwell
• Dallis Flowers
• Terell Smith
• Zah Frazier

Going into last year, the Bears returned their entire starting secondary and had a strong group of cornerbacks ready to play in a new system. But injuries derailed that plan. Jaylon Johnson got hurt prior to training camp and played in just two quarters in Week 2 before being lost for the majority of the season with a groin injury. Though he returned in late November, Johnson was far from the Pro Bowl player he showed in 2023 and 2024. Kyler Gordon dealt with injury issues as well, playing in just three regular-season games. He shined in the postseason, but it was a lost season for him after signing a three-year extension last offseason.

Tyrique Stevenson was the lone projected starter who was healthy for the vast majority of the season. A year after his debacle during the Hail Mary play against the Washington Commanders, Stevenson rebounded with a quality season. But he fell out of favor with the Bears coaches when Jaylon Johnson returned and saw his playing time decrease late in the year. Josh Blackwell, meanwhile, has become a special teams ace and no longer sees time on defense. Terell Smith (torn ACL) and rookie Zah Frazier (non-football injury) did not play in the regular season.

Who's slated to hit free agency?

• Nahshon Wright
• CJ Gardner-Johnson
• Nick McCloud

Last season, the Bears needed to rely on some unlikely names to make significant contributions at the cornerback position. That started with Nahshon Wright, who signed a one-year deal worth $1.1 million last offseason. With Johnson out early in training camp, Wright turned some heads and began starting opposite Stevenson. He turned in a Pro Bowl season with five interceptions and two forced fumbles. Wright was easily the most surprising player on the Bears this past season and was a big reason for their success. He has earned a hefty pay raise, but the Bears may not be the team to give it to him.

Meanwhile, Gordon's injury forced the Bears to pivot in the middle of the season. That's where they signed CJ Gardner-Johnson to fill in at nickel cornerback. Gardner-Johnson proved to be a valuable pickup, notching three sacks and two interceptions. He continued to see time when Gordon returned to action and could be a candidate to return in 2026. Nick McCloud also was a free agent acquisition last offseason and saw time as a backup, though he struggled when he was on the field.

Who might join the Bears?

If the Bears don't wind up re-signing Wright, there are a few interesting players who are set to hit the open market. The most interesting name is Alontae Taylor from the New Orleans Saints. He was drafted by Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, and a reunion could be in order in Chicago. Other potential options include Super Bowl champion Josh Jobe from the Seattle Seahawks, Jamel Dean from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Greg Newsome from the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Position need: Moderate

On paper, it would seem the Bears are just fine with their cornerback options. Johnson, Stevenson, and Gordon are all set to return, while Frazier and Smith could be options after not playing in 2025. But this is Allen's defense now, and he will be looking for his own players. Johnson wasn't the same player after coming back from injury, and Stevenson saw less and less playing time as the year went on. The Bears will likely retool the position and find players that fit Allen's mold. It's possible the team pays a premium price to land one of the better free agents available, like Taylor.'s mold. It's possible the team pays a premium price to land one of the better free agents available, like Taylor.

This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears 2026 offseason preview: Where Chicago stands at cornerback

On this Members-only episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani and Mehedi Hassan discuss:

• A solid Ferland Mendy cameo in Real Madrid’s win over Celta Vigo
• If Jurgen Klopp arrives…
• Why Vinicius Jr struggled
• Possession without purpose
• Trent Alexander-Arnold’s defensive issues
• Aurelien Tchouameni
• The decision to start Brahim Diaz over Gonzalo Garcia
• Thiago Pitarch, Cesar Palacios
• And more.

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

Hosts this week:

Kiyan Sobhani (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@KiyanSo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠)

Mehedi Hassan (⁠⁠@MhassanFootball⁠⁠)

Borussia Mönchengladbach suffered their sixth consecutive defeat against Bayern Munich in the opening fixture of matchday 25. Eugen Polanski sees the positives after a third successive away defeat for his team.

“We said before the game that everything had to be right for us to get a result against Bayern,” Polanski looked back at his statement before the game. “Unfortunately, that was not the case. We put in a decent performance in the first half, but we were not brave enough in attacking the space behind as we were supposed to do.

“In the second half, things became extremely difficult for us after the red card. However, I definitely saw a team that fought hard.”

Gladbach will be on Friday night action once again when they host St. Pauli on matchday 26. The Foals won their last home game against Union Berlin, which is their only victory since the first match of 2026.

Georgia football loaded up on defensive backs in the transfer portal this cycle.

It took a step to add more talent to its secondary on Friday night March 6 when four-star cornerback Jerry Outhouse Jr. announced his commitment to the Bulldogs for the 2027 class.

The 6-foot 1/2, 180-pounder from Fort Worth, Texas, picked Georgia over Texas Tech, Florida, Arizona State and UCLA. Outhouse revealed his decision on a CBS Sports YouTube channel, teasing like he would go to Texas Tech before saying it was Georgia.

"Every time I went down they showed me love," Outhouse said. "They just landed a hard worker. I'm going to come in, day in and day out and give 110 percent."

Outhouse is rated as the nation’s No. 25 cornerback and 185^th prospect overall by the 247Sports Composite.

Outhouse is the sixth commitment in the 2027 Georgia class and second defensive back, joining five-star Donte Wright from Long Beach, Calif. Wright is still planning to take six official visits, according to Rivals.com.

Georgia added cornerbacks Gentry Williams and Braylon Conely and safeties Khalil Barnes and Ja’Marley Riddle from the transfer portal along with six defensive back signees in its 2026 class.

Outhouse would play at Georgia for defensive backs coach Donte Williams.

"The relationship between me and Donte is something special," he told 247Sports. "Everyone sees how many guys they've put in the draft. I feel like if I go there, it would be something special."

This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Georgia football gets commitment from 4-star Jerry Outhouse Jr.

ProBox TV has some Friday night action on tap, hitting Newark, New Jersey with an April 10th show headlined by Olympic gold medalist Hebert Conceicao.

Conceicao (10-0, 5 KO), who famously knocked out Oleksandr Khyzniak in the 2020 finals, notably sports wins over both of the Falcao brothers as a professional. He’ll take a step sideways against Johan Gonzalez (36-5, 34 KO), a reliable gatekeeper who loses to real contenders but can flip the script at times. He was last seen following a split decision over Jarrett Hurd with a one-sided loss to Erislandy Lara in December.

Super welterweight contender Francisco Daniel Veron (16-1-1, 10 KO), coming off of solid wins over Vladimir Hernandez and Roiman Villa, helms the co-feature against ProBox regular Raul Garcia (15-2-1, 12 KO). Perhaps the most interesting fight of the evening, however, pits top prospect Tsendbaatar Erdenebat (14-0, 6 KO) against Muhammad Yaqubov (23-1-1, 12 KO) in a fight that could easily propel the winner into super featherweight contention.

Finally, William Foster III (19-3, 11 KO) makes his latest ProBox walk opposite Joshafat Ortiz (13-2, 6 KO).

Pretty dang good appetizer for Fury-Makhmudov the next day.