The Bucs 2025 campaign started with a ton of promise. They started the season 6-2 with a win over the eventual Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks. They went into their Bye Week with the expectation they would rest up and come out of it ready for a tough slate of games but would finish the season 2-7 after the break and lose their division title. Not many things could be seen as much more of a worst-case scenario for the Bucs, but what could be worse in 2026?

Bleacher Report's Brad Gagnon laid out the worst-case scenario for every NFL team, including the Bucs. For Tampa Bay, it centers around a duo of things that could unfold.

Gagnon writes, "Baker Mayfield regresses, indicating that his decline in 2025 wasn't simply a down year, and the Bucs pick up where they left off with a 2-7 run to close out the 2025 campaign."

Baker Mayfield is heading into a critical year on multiple fronts, perhaps the biggest being on paper, literally. He is set to be a free agent in 2027, and Jason Licht and the rest of the Bucs front office remain steadfast in him sticking around for the foreseeable future. However, if the team falters out of the gate, that may not be the case.

Albeit, it would need him to really fall out of the gate. But crazier things have happened.

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: The Bucs worst case for 2026 centers around the play of Baker Mayfield

There are plenty of ways to build an NFL roster, and the Philadelphia Eagles don't follow most of them. That's not a criticism. It's a compliment. At least that's the skinny, according to Jonathan Greenard. During a recent appearance, he offered a perspective that stood out, not because it was flashy, but because it was honest. In a league where teams often chase trends, Philadelphia has built a reputation for sticking to its own formula.

Jonathan Greebard and Chris Long discuss the Eagles' roster.

The Eagles' approach has never been about quick fixes. It's about layers, and it shows. They are investing in the trenches, building depth, and creating competition at nearly every position. That philosophy isn't always the most exciting on paper, but it's effective. Year after year, the Eagles find themselves in a position to compete, not because they rely on one or two stars, but because their roster feels complete from top to bottom. That's what caught Greenard's attention.

During a recent appearance on Green Light with Chris Long, Greenard and the Super Bowl hero discussed how Philadelphia's roster-building philosophy is about more than who they bring in. It's just as much about the size of 'the dawg in the fight' as it is about the 'size of the fight in the dawg.' Here's your disclaimer. Some slightly NSFW content waits if you choose to do so. Philadelphia's strategy continues. Three of their eight 2026 draft choices were exhausted on massive human beings.

“These f***ers I feel like they find the biggest, fastest person they can find at every position”@jongreenard7 on this Eagles roster 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/oIIAP29h0g

— Green Light with Chris Long (@greenlight) May 4, 2026

Markel Bell stands at six-foot-nine and weighs 346 pounds. Micah Morris is six-foot-five and 334 pounds. Uar Bernard stands just over six-foot-four. He tips the scales at 306 wars. There seems to be some gladiator-style battles at practice.

Every addition, every move, and every draft pick ties back to a larger vision. There's a level of intentionality that’s hard to miss once you see it. Players aren't just collected. They're curated.

That creates something different entirely. Jonathan Greenard didn't need a long explanation to make his point. The Eagles build their roster their way, and in a league built on copycat thinking, that might be what makes them the most dangerous.

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Jonathan Greenard reacts to Eagles’ focus on size, speed in roster

Defenceman Jimmy Oligny has agreed a new two-year deal with Cardiff Devils.

The Canadian, 33, impressed in 2025-26, scoring seven goals and 25 assists for 32 points and helping Devils seal a fourth Play-Offs Final win as they overcame Sheffield Steelers last month.

Oligny featured in all 68 Devils game across the season – his first in Wales – and played the final three weeks of the campaign with a broken thumb.

He has previously played for HKM Sloven in Slovakia and Austrian side Graz 99ers and spent six seasons for the Manitoba Moose in the American Hockey League.

The San Francisco 49ers made one of the biggest moves this offseason when they signed former Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans to a reasonable three-year deal.

Evans' arrival in San Francisco gives Brock Purdy a true WR1 to target in 2026, but with the former first-round pick missing three games in 2024 and nine in 2025, there are some questions about his health as he enters his mid-30s.

Former 49ers wide receiver Terrell Owens, who was pretty durable throughout his 15 years in the NFL, recently shared some advice for Evans to remain on the field.

“Obviously he’s been battling the hamstring injuries over the last few years with the Buccaneers, and that’s of some concern,” Owens told the "Action Network" recently. “Hopefully he can do some things in the offseason to eliminate that. It’s usually been late in the season when he’s been hurt, so he has to change up what he’s doing from a training standpoint. Even nutrition.”

Videos on social media have shown Evans putting in the work this offseason, and Owens believes that if he makes the necessary changes, the wideout can help the team reach great heights in 2026.

“There’s obviously something going on,” Owens said. “Bodies can get out of alignment. Hips and things of that nature. If he can address that and be productive, be available for the team toward the end of the season and into the playoffs, they’ve got a good chance.”

Evans began his career with 11-straight 1,000-yard seasons before catching 30 passes for 368 yards and three touchdowns in eight games in 2025. San Francisco's hoping that Evans is healthy again this year and returns to the player he was before last season.

More 49ers: 49ers linked to Pro Bowl cornerback as potential trade destination

This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 49ers legend gives blunt advice to team’s new superstar

We asked for your views on whether it would be worth the risk to play Morgan Gibbs-White against Aston Villa in the Europa League second leg.

Here are some of your comments:

Phil: It looks a nasty cut. Hope he can play on Thursday, but his health must come first. He is key to Forest's success. I think whoever replaces him (if needs be) will do a fine job.

Maurice: Don't even think about playing Morgan Gibbs-White on Thursday! Let him recover first. The whole squad is motivated and will keep performing. Great to see everything coming together again for a fan who has been following the Reds since the early 1970's.

David: There's no reason to pressure Gibbs-White to play in Thursday's showdown at Villa Park. We have plenty of cover for him, like Taiwo Awoniyi or Omari Hutchinson.

Luke: He will 100% want to play, it might be a bigger risk telling him he can't. So long as his vision isn't impaired by swelling etc, then measure him up for a mask and get him out there. If we qualify, then you can wrap him in cotton wool until the final.

Simon: Got to be down to Gibbs-White himself to decide. Biggest game for us in 40 years and we're pretty well safe in the Premier League now, so if he feels he's up for it, play him.

Pat: If Gibbs-White says he's fit, let him play. It will be one of the biggest games of his career. One of the biggest in our recent history. One that can write a new chapter for us and one that explodes him to England glory.

Colton: Gibbs-White would be a better leader by making the right decision. The season ain't over yet, we could go down still. He has a huge part to play in our survival. Rest up Thursday, be there to be a potential super-sub. Then play for the rest of the season and hopefully a cup final if fate is on our side.

Mark: Yes, playing in a protective mask is pretty standard for football. He's a tough Red, and he won't want to miss this, he can be rested in Premier League games.

This is your Forest page. Bookmark it and come back for podcasts, stats, fan views, expert punditry and more.

And so another Rangers season comes to a premature end following another failure to put together a 90-minute performance.

Having put in a couple of pretty abject first-half displays in their games against Falkirk and Motherwell, it was imperative they started better against Hearts. And to be fair, they did.

In fact after a fairly even opening to the game, they took control after getting themselves in front and were knocking the ball about nicely, with Hearts unable to get close to them.

I said in commentary they were doing to Hearts what Motherwell had done to them in that first period. It was impressive to watch and with Hearts unable to get possession, it looked as though Danny Rohl's side were going to haul themselves right back into the thick of the title race, just a point behind their opponents and Celtic.

But of course that is not what transpired. Derek McInnes's tactical tweaks at half-time countered Rangers' dominance of midfield and as soon as Hearts got the early second-half equaliser, the momentum shifted and Rangers' title hopes were ended.

The fall-out from that, from a Rangers perspective, has been to apportion blame for yet another hugely disappointing season. Fingers have been pointed at Danny Rohl, at James Tavernier, at Andreas Skov Olsen among others.

Rohl deserves some praise. Firstly for having turned Rangers' fortunes around and got them back involved to the extent that they became many people's favourites to win the league. But also, on the night, his tactics at the outset were spot on. However, his and his players' inability to adapt once Hearts changed their own shape is unacceptable and ultimately, just as he was out-thought by Jens Berthel Askou the week before, he was outdone by Derek McInnes.

Questions are now being asked about his future as Rangers manager. I'll leave that for another week but he and his players have to show a response by taking something off Celtic on Sunday.

I think Tavernier has been unfairly criticised on this occasion, but as the captain of a side that has failed to deliver on another big occasion he will have to accept considerable responsibility.

As for Skov Olsen, he has been a major let-down since arriving to such great fanfare and it seems unthinkable that Rangers would now try to make his move a permanent one.

But it is as a collective that Rangers have failed in the end and there will have to be another period of soul-searching within Ibrox as the owners plot a way forward.

All that remains for this season is to try to overhaul Celtic in second, though that should offer only minimal solace.

Bradford Bulls captain Joe Mellor has extended his contract through to the end of next season.

The 35-year-old loose forward joined the club on a one-year deal last November after leaving Salford.

The former Widnes and Leigh man is currently sidelined with a knee injury.

"I'm really happy to be staying, it's been really good since I arrived especially coming back into Super League," he told the club website.

Makai Lemon has star potential at receiver. Where he can make the most impact in Philadelphia: just by being a reliable target and doing exactly what he did for Jayden Maiava last season. In a recent article, Geoffrey A Knox highlights exactly how Makai Lemon will make a difference for Jalen Hurts:

"Lemon’s game is built on detail. He separates with technique. He understands spacing. He plays with a level of competitiveness that shows up in contested situations and critical moments.

For a quarterback like Hurts, one who has faced constant discussion about rhythm, timing, and operating within structure, that kind of receiver can be a stabilizer. It’s not about replacing anything. It’s about complementing everything. Lemon represents more than just potential. Philadelphia didn’t move up in the draft by accident. They identified a player they believed could help immediately and grow over time.

That level of conviction usually points to a clear vision. In this case, that vision appears tied directly to Hurts. Makai Lemon doesn’t have to be everything the Eagles need him to be right away. He just has to be what this offense needs in the moment, but he has help: Smith, Saquon Barkley, and Dallas Goedert, among others. If the early read is correct, and the fit is as clean as it looks on paper, the Jalen Hurts–Lemon connection won’t take long to develop."

The Eagles have weapons to make this offense dangerous already, but Makai Lemon is a weapon that will make things easy for Jalen Hurts. He can be a sure thing and a reliable target. Lemon will make Jalen Hurts right, and that will make more of an impact than elite production will.

This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: If Makai Lemon can be what he was at USC, Jalen Hurts will thrive

When LeBron James signed with the Los Angeles Lakers in the summer of 2018, he was 33 years of age. He agreed to a four-year contract, and the expectation at the time seemed to be that by the last year or two of that contract, he would start to show some real signs of wear and tear.

Fast forward nearly eight years, and he has barely shown any such signs. While he perhaps cannot play at the same level as consistently for long stretches of games as he could back then, his ability to produce at that level when needed is still intact. James was the Lakers' third scoring option for much of this season, but ever since Luka Doncic suffered a hamstring strain about a month ago, the 41-year-old has gone back to being the team's primary scoring threat.

During the latest episode of his "Mind the Game" podcast, James said he never would've guessed in 2018 that he would still be the main man on the Lakers in 2026 and lead them to an upset win over the Houston Rockets in the first round of the playoffs.

“I definitely didn’t believe that. I mean, listen, I came to the Lakers in 2018 at 33, and there’s no way if someone had said would you be playing in 2026 in the postseason, just playing, I don’t know if I would’ve been able to answer that question,” James said.

“Let alone saying but now you’re the number one option on a playoff team and you’re helping them win a series. I wouldn’t have believed that. I knew I still had a lot left in the tank when I came to this franchise in 2018. But to say eight years later at 41, I would be leading a team into the postseason and coming out with a series win, I wouldn’t have guessed that. I wouldn’t have bet on that.”

When Doncic, along with Austin Reaves, went down due to injury on April 2, Los Angeles was supposed to fold. But the NBA's all-time leading scorer has not only kept the team afloat, but he has also gotten L.A. to overachieve.

In that first-round series versus Houston, James averaged 23.2 points, 7.2 rebounds and 8.3 assists a game, and while he shot 43.2% overall and 30% from 3-point range, the impact he made was unmistakable. In Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday, he scored 27 points on 12-of-17 field-goal shooting, to go along with six assists.

He clearly still seems to have plenty left in the tank, and it may not ultimately surprise people if he delivers a couple more seasons of, at a minimum, All-Star-level basketball.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: LeBron 'wouldn't have guessed' he'd still be leading Lakers at 41

The Pittsburgh Steelers are locked into a less-than-ideal contract situation with T.J. Watt, but one NFL legend believes a time could be coming soon when the team decides to pull the plug.

According to former Steelers outside linebacker James Harrison, the team could look to move on from Watt once his full guaranteed money runs out in 2028.

“T.J. has a lot of guaranteed money left on his contract,” Harrison said via the Deebo and Joe podcast. “T.J. has '26 and '27. I don’t see him going anywhere unless they could potentially get something for him in a trade because I don’t see anybody taking a $42 million cap hit in each year.

“So, '26 and '27 is $42 million each, and that is fully guaranteed. And then, '28, it’s not guaranteed, but he has a roster bonus that is due of $15 million on the third day of the new league year. So, I hate to say it, in all reality, I would see them releasing him in '28, along with him being 34 at the time.”

At the time in July 2025, Watt became the highest-paid non-quarterback when he signed his three-year, $123 million extension. He went on to have a mediocre 2025 season, however, failing to record at least eight sacks for only the third time in his nine-year career.

Hopefully, Watt can turn things around in a major way this upcoming season, proving that he deserved every penny of his then-record-setting extension.

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 could move on from T.J. Watt in 2028, says James Harrison

After signing a one-year contract worth up to $5 million to join the Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks, the Dante Fowler era in Dallas is official over. Again. Last season was Fowler’s second stint with the Dallas Cowboys. His first tenure encompassed the 2022 and 2023 season with his second following a one-year interlude in Washington in 2024.

In many ways Fowler’s 2025 season was as much a disappointment as it was predictable. Fowler was coming off an outlier season with the Washington Commanders. The 10.5 sacks he logged with them marked only the second time in his 11-year career he posted over eight sacks in a season. But the Cowboys clearly saw a repeatable performance, inking Fowler to a one-year deal worth exactly twice what he made during his previous time with the Cowboys.

The Cowboys ignored the red flags staring them in the face. They ignored the outlier sack numbers, and they paid no mind to the static pressure numbers. Pressures, a far more stable statistic than sacks, have long been considered a better predictor of performance than sacks.

In his 10.5 sack season of 2024, Fowler posted 20 total pressures, which is actually less than his 21.5 average career pressure average. It just so happens Fowler posted 20 pressures again in 2025 with the Cowboys, only this time instead of pairing it with 10.5 sacks he only produced three sacks. This otherwise predictable outcome saw his numbers regress to the mean in 2025, leaving the Cowboys wondering what the heck had happened.

It’s a lesson the Cowboys would be wise to learn if they want to avoid further free agent mistakes. Pressure rate has long been considered a better indicator of future performance than sacks. It’s far more stable year to year and a better tool to follow when free agent hunting in the offseason.

Veteran edge rusher Dante Fowler Jr. is signing with the Seahawks on a one-year deal worth up to $5 million, per sources.

The No. 3 overall pick in the 2015 draft, Fowler is now entering his 12th NFL season. Deal negotiated by Sean Kiernan and Tom Povinelli of @AthletesFirst. pic.twitter.com/IOyRrcoWAJ

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) May 5, 2026

Now, Fowler’s specific situation does involve more details that would be disingenuous to ignore. He played 205 more defensive snaps with the Commanders than he did with the Cowboys. This might help us explain the outlier sacks numbers but at the same time raises questions with the stagnant pressure numbers.

Speaking of pressure numbers, not all accounting is the same. Pro Football Reference counts 20 for each season but Pro Football Focus tells a much different tale. PFF tracked 43 regular season pressures in 2024 and 30 pressures in 2025. These are much more in line with his snap count disparity. But PFF also points out Fowler played a higher proportion of pass rush snaps in Dallas than he did in D.C. meaning the Cowboys put him in better position to post gaudy sack numbers than the Commanders.

At the end of the day, it comes down to predictive stats and free agent expectations. For as frugally as the Cowboys shop in free agency, they sure can be dismissive of predictive stats. Signing a player coming off an outlier season is dangerous in itself, add in all the details outlined above and it’s a real head-scratcher.

All the best to Dante Fowler as he joins the defending champs in 2026, but let’s not forget the lesson he taught us in 2025 when Dallas laid some pretty unrealistic expectations at his feet.

You can follow Reid on X @ReidDHanson and be sure to follow Cowboys Wire on Facebook to join in on the conversation with fellow fans!

This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Fowler’s official departure is a reminder for Cowboys future strategy

The New York Giants selected BYU linebacker Jack Kelly in the sixth round of the 2026 NFL draft.

At 6-foot-2 and 242 pounds, Kelly is a talented linebacker who flashed major potential throughout his college career. The former Cougars standout anchored BYU’s defense over the last two seasons and was widely regarded as a steal by many analysts at his draft position.

Kelly recorded an impressive 23.5 tackles for loss and 15.0 sacks across those two seasons. He also posted the fastest 20-yard shuttle time among all linebackers at the NFL Combine, running a notable 4.19 seconds despite weighing more than 240 pounds.

Jack Kelly also had the best 20-yard shuttle time among linebackers at the combine, 4.19. ...He had a 37-inch vertical leap and 4.57 forty time. https://t.co/9lgRsaFQ8y

— Ian O'Connor (@Ian_OConnor) April 25, 2026

In addition, Kelly recorded a 37-inch vertical leap and a 4.57-second 40-yard dash at the combine.

With his combination of talent and elite physical tools, the linebacker enters his rookie season in New York motivated to prove himself after sliding to the sixth round.

This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: New York Giants rookie Jack Kelly could emerge as a sixth-round steal

The Florida football program is expected to improve under new head coach Jon Sumrall in 2026. The greater question, however, still remains: just how far can the Gators climb behind a revamped roster anchored by returning impact players?

USA TODAY Sports' post-spring SEC rankings offer an early snapshot of the conference ahead of this fall.

Playing the SEC presents a steep uphill climb for the Gators, who are set to take on the top-ranked Texas Longhorns, second-ranked Georgia Bulldogs and third-ranked Oklahoma Sooners in consecutive weeks. The rank perhaps says more about the depth of the conference than Florida itself.

A veritable gauntlet of opponents sits between Florida and relevance. Even other teams in the middle class have improved on paper mightily from last season.

The message for Gator Nation is that Florida is in an identity-shaping phase of the rebuild, and while they appear to be ahead of schedule, the program is also not a finished product. In the midst of a program overhaul, Florida is improving but still chasing the conference's top tier.

Established programs at the peak aren't going anywhere, so Sumrall and his staff must do twice the work to catch up in a crowded conference.

From year to year, keeping pace in the SEC can be grueling. That complexity deepens with expanded portal movement, realities of NIL and regular roster turnover. While the changes in college football have shrunk gaps between these tiers, the unpredictability opens the door for teams to improve dramatically. Reference Indiana, Houston and Utah, who shifted from losing records to double-digit wins in just one season.

Florida could be this year's surprise SEC contender, but that result will depend on whether the Gators can find stability at quarterback, their transfer portal gambles pay off and the defense can earn at least a top-25 ranking. The Gators will need efficiency and steady play from Aaron Philo or Tramell Jones Jr. in order to compete week-to-week.

Decreasing turnovers and converting in the red zone will be paramount for whoever wins the starting job. Transfers Emmanuel Oyebadejo, Cam Dooley and Eric Singleton Jr. will need to make immediate impacts as starters. Lastly, Brad White must take the Florida defense from average to elite — generating pressure without the blitz and creating turnovers will help Florida steal wins in a conference where the margin of victory is often razor-thin.

Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, as well as Bluesky, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.

This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Florida football's rebuild ahead of schedule in post-spring rankings

The New England Patriots decided not to take a wide receiver in the 2026 NFL Draft despite having a pressing need for one leading up to the event, but next year will present a new class of top prospects to choose from.

According to CBS Sports' Ryan Wilson, the Patriots select Alabama wide receiver Ryan Coleman-Williams with the No. 24 overall pick in a recent mock for the 2027 draft.

"Coleman-Williams' tape in 2025 looked nothing like what we all witnessed during his freshman season in '24," Wilson said. "If he can return to that player, he'll have a chance to be a top-10 pick and battle Jeremiah Smith for WR1."

Coleman-Williams went for 689 receiving yards and four touchdowns on 49 receptions last season at Alabama. He was more of a volume receiver for the Crimson Tide as a freshman in 2024, where he went for 865 receiving yards and eight touchdowns with only one less reception (48) than in 2025.

The Patriots are expected to trade for Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown later this offseason. If New England is not able to execute a deal for the 1,000-yard receiver from 2025, the Patriots will need another volume receiver, especially with Kayshon Boutte approaching the final year of his deal in 2026, and also surfacing in trade talks this offseason, making Coleman-Williams a name to watch way before the time.

Follow Patriots Wire on Twitter and Facebook.

This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Patriots get former First-Team All-SEC WR in early 2027 NFL mock draft

A very important decision day for one of the Nittany Lions' most coveted recruiting prospects has just been announced. Four-star running back Aiden Gibson will be announcing which school he will play for next week, on Tuesday, May 12 at 7 p.m. ET. The No. 8 overall prospect in the state of South Carolina would immediately bolster the Penn State backfield and give head coach Matt Campbell a weapon with elite vision and body control.

In his junior season, he showed why he is one of the best running back recruits not only in the nation, but in South Carolina. He carried the ball 205 times for a total of 1,611 yards for a ridiculous 21 touchdowns on 7.9 yards per carry. He also contributed 387 yards as a receiver to go along with four touchdowns. A weapon like him out of the backfield would certainly elevate this team in the long run.

Still, it will not be easy to secure his signature. Rutgers, Louisville, and his home state school of South Carolina are all in the mix for Gibson. While Penn State certainly has the most national profile out of his finalists, Gibson still has a lot to consider in his decision. He did end up taking an unofficial visit to Penn State and has his official visit scheduled the weekend of June 12. Still, he has three others scheduled after it with a chance to sway his decision.

Gibson would ultimately be a dream for Penn State as their first running back in the class and potentially their fifth four-star signing in an already loaded 2027 class.

This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: Penn State RB target sets decision day

The 2026 NFL Draft is in the books, where the Chicago Bears welcomed seven new rookies to the roster.

Chicago also added some new offensive pieces for Ben Johnson with center Logan Jones, tight end Sam Roush and wide receiver Zavion Thomas, while adding some new defensive players in cornerback Malik Muhammad, linebacker Keyshaun Elliott and defensive tackle Jordan van den Berg. While it's not the flashiest class, it's one assembled by Johnson and GM Ryan Poles that one analyst believes will be the thing to get the Bears to the Super Bowl.

Chicago is slated to hold their rookie minicamp from May 8-11, where we'll get a first glimpse at the newcomers before the offseason program kicks into high gear with organized team activities (OTAs) later this month.

While we’ll be glad to give mock drafts a rest for the foreseeable future, there were some way-too-early 2027 mock drafts that surfaced after the 2026 draft. We rounded those up, where experts make their first picks for Chicago — where defensive tackle, edge rusher and running back were the popular selections.

USA Today: Ahmad Moten, DT, Miami (28th overall)

Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz: "Dennis Allen's defense might require more meaningful disruption from the interior than Gervon Dexter Sr. and Grady Jarrett can provide. Moten's quick-twitch movements that leave plodding blockers playing catch-up could yield the level of penetration that Allen relishes."

The Athletic: Kelley Jones, CB, Mississippi State (18th overall)

Dane Brugler: "Listed at 6-4, Jones has rare speed and ability for a player his size, which will draw obvious attention from NFL teams."

ESPN: Ahmad Moten, DT, Miami (16th overall)

Jordan Reid: "The Bears went surprisingly light on the interior defensive line in last week's draft, waiting until the sixth round to address the position. Moten is an explosive disruptor who finished with nine tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks last season. He has quick and powerful hands to swipe away interior blockers and is a stout run defender who can stand his ground in gaps. Moten needs to play with better pad level, as his aggressiveness can cause him to play high and be pushed out of position, but he could be the Grady Jarrett heir apparent in Chicago."

CBS Sports: Caden Green, OL, Missouri (17th overall)

Ryan Wilson: "Green plays with a sturdy anchor against power rushers, and while he needs to play with lower pads in the run game, his high-level awareness makes him a reliable blindside protector whose NFL future could be inside at guard."

Pro Football Focus: Cade Pieper, iOL, Iowa

Daire Carragher: "The Bears selected Iowa center Logan Jones with the 57th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Pieper will transition from guard to replace Jones at center this season for the Hawkeyes, and if his form carries over, there is no reason he will not be the first interior offensive lineman selected next year. The bulldozing run-blocking style of these Iowa offensive linemen could remind Ben Johnson of players like Frank Ragnow in Detroit."

Sports Illustrated: Ahmad Moten Sr., DT, Miami (18th overall)

Justin Melo: "Grady Jarrett is an aging asset, and Gervon Dexter Sr. will be a pending free agent. The Chicago Bears should re-sign Dexter, but even if so, pairing him with an appropriate running mate should be a priority. Miami Hurricanes defensive tackle Ahmad Moten turned heads during the National Championship Game, and could build on a 2025 season that saw him register nine tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks."

Sporting News: Kewan Lacy, RB, Ole Miss (26th overall)

Vinnie Iyer: "The Bears likely won't re-sign D'Andre Swift after the 2026 season and need to consider taking an explosive all-around back to support Kyle Monangai better in Ben Johnson's offense. Don't sleep on Lacy jumping Hardy at some point during the process."

FOX Sports: John Henry Daley, DL, Michigan (16th overall)

Rob Rang: "With his blond hair, physical play and motor always running, expect there to be plenty of comparisons to Michigan great Aidan Hutchinson. Daley starred this past season for Kyle Whittingham at Utah before following the legendary head coach to Ann Arbor. He lacks ideal twitch, but he’s powerful and relentless, recording 17.5 tackles for loss and 11.5 sacks in 2025."

Bleacher Report: Kewan Lacy, RB, Ole Miss (17th overall)

Brent Sobleski: "When Ben Johnson served as the Detroit Lions' offensive coordinator, the organization chose to select Jahmyr Gibbs in the first round even though D'Andre Swift was already on the roster. The Lions traded Swift a day later to make room for the dynamic Gibbs. Swift is now the Chicago Bears' RB1, though Johnson and the team's front office may not be in a rush to re-sign their lead back when the organization may have the opportunity to upgrade. 

Ole Miss' Kewan Lacy is a very different prospect compared to Gibbs, yet both have the ability to open up an offense. In Lacy's case, he's an explosive and powerful ball-carrier capable of carving through defenses. The Missouri transfer led the nation with 306 carries, ranked second with 24 rushing touchdowns and finished third overall with 1,567 yards. A staggering 1,010 yards came after contact. While listed at 205 pounds, Lacy is clearly put together and capable of being a workhorse option. He can be something special in the Bears ascending offense."

Pro Football Network: Quincy Rhodes Jr., EDGE, Arkansas (16th overall)

Ian Cummings: "Quincy Rhodes Jr. still has room to keep developing in 2026, but his 2025 film was enough to fuel NFL Draft consideration. He logged a stellar PFSN EDGE Impact grade of 86.4, while generating pressure on over 11% of his pass-rush reps. At 6’6″, 277 pounds, Rhodes has the size and power profile that Dennis Allen covets in his defensive linemen, along with slant, stunt, and alignment versatility. He’s explosive, agile, and hard to corral working across-face with swims and spins, and he has a hot motor in run defense."

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This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: 2027 NFL mock draft round-up: Way-too-early predictions for Bears

Alex Pereira is rooting for Sean Strickland to pull off the upset against Khamzat Chimaev.

Strickland (30-7 MMA, 17-7 UFC) is a big underdog in Saturday's UFC 328 (Paramount+) main event against middleweight champion Chimaev (15-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) at Prudential Center in Newark, N.J. Former UFC middleweight and light heavyweight champion Pereira has trained with Strickland in the past, and the pair linked up at the UFC Performance Institute recently.

"Before our fight, I saw him differently," Pereira said of Strickland on UFC Countdown. "But once he stepped into the octagon, you could see it on his face. He was a different guy. He's a warrior. The first time we trained together was after our fight, I learned a lot from those sessions. He's got a lot of experience. He knows his craft.

"He's always moving forward, firing that jab. That's a great weapon he has. Everyone knows I'm rooting for Sean Strickland. He's got to stay composed, keep pressing forward, stay alert, watch out for the takedowns, and use his jab and front kick. I'm really excited and motivated for this fight, and I hope he gets the win."

Pereira knocked out Strickland at UFC 276 to earn his middleweight title shot. He wound up putting an end to Israel Adesanya's dominant reign when he finished him by TKO at UFC 281.

Now, Pereira is chasing a belt in a third division when he takes on Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight title in the UFC Freedom 250 co-headliner on June 14 from the White House in Washington D.C.

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: UFC 328: Alex Pereira advises Sean Strickland after training with him

It has been an incredible period for exciting games with plenty of goals. It is also no surprise considering what is at stake. Many clubs are needing wins as opposed to just wanting them, and of course there is the tiredness at the end of the season which top players will always take advantage of.

Everton 3-3 Manchester City might just have outshone Manchester United beating Liverpool 3-2 on Sunday, but that win by Michael Carrick's men was another hi-octane nailbiter that had the emotions overflowing from the start. It wasn't quite the spectacle of PSG 5-4 Bayern Munich last Tuesday, but we are currently seeing classics on a more than weekly basis just now.

There were also a whole bunch of schoolboy errors on show, though to be fair Marc Guehi's bizarre, you-wouldn't-expect-that-in-an-under-eights-game backpass, did steal the show at the weekend.

The two big take aways were that first, Liverpool have a lot of work to do over the summer particularly with their defence. Second, if Manchester United do not give Michael Carrick the job full-time, then they will probably get what they deserve – more of the mayhem they have endured for the past 13 years.

I have never understood why they got rid of David Moyes, who I was convinced would have built a dynasty given a modicum of time and indeed due respect. Carrick is in the classic United mould, has done an exceptional job with 32 points from 42 available, that is league-winning form in many seasons.

Last year, PFF's John Kosko showed no respect for Bo Nix in his rankings. Even after his impressive rookie campaign, ProFootballFocus.com still ranked Bo's performance as in the bottom half of NFL quarterbacks, 19th of 32, heading into the 2025-2026 season.

Not anymore!

This year, Mason Cameron's PFF quarterback rankings have Nix ranked just outside the top 12 overall, and 6th in the AFC. Sandwiched between Jared Goff (11th) and Caleb Williams (14th), Bo's seven-spot jump is both commendable and expected after a historic run and breaking records in almost every game of the 2025-2026 season.

"The Broncos’ offense was among the units to surrender the fewest sacks in the NFL this season," Cameron wrote on PFF. "While a stout offensive line hosting a pair of first-team All-Pros is well deserving of the credit they receive, Bo Nix is also worthy of praise for his ability to avoid the take down. Nix’s 3.0% sack rate finished as an NFL-best, as his just 9.5% pressure to sack rate charted second among all qualifying passers."

Still, while a 13th overall finish is respectable, the Broncos' run to the AFC Championship (and possible Super Bowl appearance if Nix hadn't been injured) last year leaves us wondering what Bo will have to do to break into PFF's Top 10.

If Denver's 2026-2027 season is anything like last year's, Nix should climb PFF's rankings again on next year's list.

Social: Follow Broncos Wire on Facebook and Twitter/X! Did you know: These 25 celebrities are Broncos fans.

This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: Denver Broncos: See Bo Nix's rank among all 32 NFL quarterbacks

Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid spoke with reporters during last weekend's rookie minicamp. He praised general manager Brett Veach and the entire front office for their selections in the 2026 NFL Draft and undrafted free agent additions.

"I think Brett's (Veach) done a great job with that, along with those guys (player personnel staff). I think they've really made an effort to upgrade some spots – we did in free agency," said Reid, "Three or four guys come in, and they're quality players. Then you add the rookie class in, and there were some x's that probably needed to be filled on the board, and I think he (General Manager Brett Veach) was able to fill those spots with quality players. Then, seeing them out here move around, you are always curious to see how that goes, but it looks like they're (just like) what we saw on tape here, we'll see when we get into pads and that, but they move around well."

The Chiefs notably focused on the defense in the first four picks of the draft. Reid approves of the decision to fortify the defense after multiple starters departed at the start of the offseason.

"First of all, the majority of the holes there, but they were also good players we had a chance to put into position there," said Reid, "I know how important defense is. I know I've got this offensive thing going, but defense is a majorly part of winning in this league."

Kansas City was praised for its draft results by numerous analysts, who noted additions of many potential hidden gems as undrafted free agents.

This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Chiefs' front office earns positive feedback after the 2026 NFL Draft

With free agency and the NFL draft now behind us, let's take a look back at all of the moves that have shaped the Jacksonville Jaguars' 2026 offseason.

For much of the year up to this point, it's been quite quiet for Jacksonville. GM James Gladstone prioritized re-signing several of his own free agents, but made only one outside addition, signing running back Chris Rodriguez.

The catalyst behind this approach was Gladstone being mindful of the 2027 compensatory draft picks that Jacksonville is projected to receive.

The Jaguars also saw Devin Lloyd, Travis Etienne, Greg Newsome, and Andrew Wingard sign elsewhere. In the draft, Jacksonville made 10 picks, along with 18 undrafted free agent signings afterward.

To go along with the Jaguars' quite free agency period, most draft analysts were underwhelmed by their draft class. Gladstone's overall approach this offseason, however, does speak to his confidence in the current state of the Jaguars' roster.

Offseason additions during free agency period by the Jaguars

• Jacksonville signed free agent running back Chris Rodriguez to a two-year deal worth $10 million.

Free agency departures

• Free agent Andrew Wingard signed with the Arizona Cardinals.
• Devin Lloyd signed with the Carolina Panthers.
• The Jaguars released Johnny Mundt in favor of salary cap space.
• Dyami Brown signed with the Commanders as a free agent.
• Joshua Cephus was an exclusive rights free agent; however, the Jaguars non-tendered him. This, in turn, made Cephus an unrestricted free agent, able to sign where he pleased.
• Jaguars' free agent running back Travis Etienne signed a four-year, $52 million deal to join the New Orleans Saints.

Free agents re-signed by the Jaguars

• Jaguars re-signed free agent Keith Taylor.
• Jaguars re-signed free agent Christian Braswell.
• Jaguars re-signed free agent Montaric Brown.
• Jaguars re-sign free agent Dennis Gardeck.
• Jaguars re-signed free agent Matt Dickerson.
• Jaguars re-sign free agent Quintin Morris.
• Jaguars re-signed DeeJay Dallas.

Jaguars' 2026 NFL draft class

• Pick 56: Nate Boerkircher, TE, Texas A&M
• Pick 81: Albert Regis, IDL, Texas A&M
• Pick 88: Emmanuel Pregnon, G, Oregon
• Pick 100: Jalen Huskey, DB, Maryland
• Pick 119: Wesley Williams, DE, Duke
• Pick 164; Tanner Koziol, TE, Houston
• Pick 191: Josh Cameron, WR, Baylor
• Pick 203: CJ Williams, WR, Stanford
• Pick 233: Zach Durfee, DE, Washington
• Pick 240: Parker Hughes, LB, Middle Tennessee State

Jaguars' 2026 undrafted free agent signings

• Joey Aguilar, QB, Tennessee
• TJ Bollers, DL, Cal
• Brady Boyd, WR, Utah State
• Alex Bullock, WR, SDSU
• Ethan Conner, TE, Troy
• Garrett Digiorgio, OL, UCLA
• Quindarius Dunnigan, DE, Michigan State
• Preston Hodge, CB, Colorado
• Jalen Hunt, DL, Cincinnati
• Devon Marshall, CB, NC State
• Devin Neal, S, Virginia
• Jimto Obidegwu, OL, North Texas
• Ben Patterson, WR, Texas-Permian Basin
• Trebor Pena, WR, Penn State
• J'Mari Taylor, RB, Virginia
• Bryan Thomas Jr., DE, South Carolina
• Jordan White, OL, Vanderbilt
• Michael Wortham, WR, Montana

This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: 2026 NFL offseason: Recapping every move made by Jaguars

Are the Carolina Panthers in need of a makeover?

Well, Andrew Lind of SportsLogos.net believes so. Lind listed the defending NFC South champions amongst the teams that are overdue for a uniform redesign, and even throws out a few interesting alterations:

While many fans would like to see claw marks integrated into Carolina’s design, there’s something to be said about the uniform’s staying power (31 seasons and counting). We would like to see them return to a shoulder design that wraps around the arm, though, as opposed to the UCLA-style stripes they currently use – and don’t tell us Nike can’t do it, they simply choose not to.

The black alternate helmets would also need to be adjusted as they move to primary status to include white eyes and teeth to accurately reflect their logo in all other applications, while new process blue alternate helmets with black stripes and a black facemask would complete their look – and, no, not every team needs a white helmet in the rotation.

Despite sticking close to their original look since their inaugural season in 1995, Carolina has been open to trying out some different looks in recent years. In addition to the black helmet, which was introduced to great acclaim in 2022, the Panthers have also mixed and matched their jerseys, pants and socks more often.

Five teams have either rolled out new or updated uniforms ahead of the 2026 campaign—the Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, Los Angeles Rams, Tennessee Titans and Washington Commanders. So, could the Panthers be amongst the next group for 2027?

Follow @ThePanthersWire on Twitter/X for more Panthers content.

This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Panthers implored to undergo uniform redesign

Is the starting job of one of the Indianapolis Colts' offseason free agent additions now in jeopardy following the 2026 NFL draft?

Among the many free agent additions made by the Colts was linebacker Akeem Davis-Gaither. Given the state of the linebacker room for much of the offseason, it seemed like a given that he would be a Week 1 starter.

However, following the NFL draft, there is less certainty around that.

Why might Akeem Davis-Gaither's starting job be in jeopardy?

The Colts utilized two of their eight draft picks on the linebacker position, taking CJ Allen and Bryce Boettcher. Allen will likely be the team's starting MIKE linebacker, potentially leaving Davis-Gaither and Bryce Boettcher to compete for the WILL linebacker role.

The Colts believe that Boettcher can play both linebacker spots. He's been a reliable tackler during his career, allowing him to make an impact against the run while limiting yards in coverage. Boettcher allowed only 6.0 yards per reception in 2025.

Davis-Gaither, who is entering his seventh NFL season, has experience on his side. He also spent five of his six seasons up to this point playing in Lou Anarumo's defense. That familiarity should help him hit the ground running.

When projecting what the starting defense will look like come Week 1, I did have Davis-Gaither as a starter, but he may no longer be a lock for that role with the addition of Boettcher.

This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Is Akeem Davis-Gaither's starting spot with Colts already in jeopardy?

Every journey starts somewhere. For Chandler Rivers and Elijah Sarratt, that 'somewhere' now comes in the purple and black of the Baltimore Ravens. Rivers is a five-foot-nine, 185-pound cornerback. Sarratt is a wide receiver who stands at six-foot-two and tips the scales at 210 pounds. Both arrive highly decorated.

Rivers is a 2024 First-Team All-ACC mention who also earned second-team honors in 2025. Sarratt's collegiate run left little room in the trophy case. Part of the College Football Playoff National Championship-winning Indian Hoosiers, he led the NCAA in receiving touchdowns at the end of the 2025 season. He was named Second-team All-Big Ten after receiving Third-team All-Big Ten honors one year prior. He also has First-team All-NEC (2022) and First-Team All-Sun Belt (2023) honors on his resume.

Both are part of an exciting Ravens 2026 11-man draft class. Baltimore's social media team shared clips featuring the two as they enjoyed their time at the rookie minicamp.

The work has begun. Here's your first look at @elijah_sarrattpic.twitter.com/6ZVLHIdzNI

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) May 4, 2026

.@_ChandlerRivers getting active ❗ pic.twitter.com/1WtwDm6p8d

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) May 5, 2026

The journey is just beginning for two exciting Ravens rookies.

Early footage in shorts with no pads. We won't learn much until later. Practice time and eventual game reps will be key. Even in moments like these, there's something worth noting: the speed and the movement. There is also the comfort level. It's the first opportunity to see how college production starts translating to the professional stage. They're both traveling on two different paths. albeit to the same opportunity. Both seek spots on the 53-man roster.

Rivers enters as a defensive back with the kind of athletic profile that fits what Baltimore has consistently valued on that side of the ball: versatility, quickness, and the ability to compete in space. Sarratt, meanwhile, arrives with a different responsibility. At wide receiver, expectations come quickly. Route precision, timing, and chemistry aren't optional. They're required. And for a young pass catcher, every rep matters.

We've seen short clips and early reps, i.e., nothing definitive, but they signal something bigger. Rivers and Sarratt haven't proven anything yet, but they have taken the first step. In Baltimore, that first step is where everything of note always begins.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Chandler Rivers and Elijah Sarratt make Ravens debut

This is grief with a purpose.

More than four years since the tragedy of losing his only son, Dwayne Haskins Sr. is so determined to add depth to the legacy of the former NFL quarterback’s complicated life with compassion that he is certain will help others.

Here are some words for this: Admirable. Courageous. Spiritual.

Haskins, through the family’s foundation, will host a talk-back discussion on mental health on May 16th at the Gaithersburg Arts Barn in Maryland that, following a community walk in conjunction with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will honor his son’s life and launch an awareness campaign. He is convinced that his son – a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2018 who led the NCAA with 4,831 passing yards and 50 touchdowns in his lone season as a starter at Ohio State, yet was cut less than two seasons after Washington drafted him in the first round in 2019 – suffered from unchecked mental health issues as his career and life quickly spiraled off-course.

“Bro, it’s personal to me,” Haskins told USA TODAY Sports, a day after commemorating Dwayne Jr.’s 29th birthday on May 3. “I’ve never said anything about Dwayne publicly.”

The floor is yours, Sir.

“We knew our son had some mental health challenges,” said Haskins, whose family includes his wife, Tamara, and daughter Tamia. “As a family, we recognize that it’s very hard for us to communicate that when a professional athlete is pursuing his dream, that he has mental health issues. There’s a stigma with that.

“We started to recognize warning signs, that we knew something wasn’t right with Dwayne. Now we’ve become an advocate to get people aware of that. There’s mental health that manifests over a period of time, then all of a sudden something will trauma a person, where they won’t be able to have effective decision-making. And it continually gets triggered and triggered.”

It’s a striking coincidence that Haskins is launching this campaign – he hopes to develop a comprehensive program and take it nationwide next year – at a time when the NFL is ramping up mental health support programs in the aftermath of tragedies in recent months where two active players, Marshawn Kneeland of the Dallas Cowboys and Rondale Moore of the Minnesota Vikings, died by suicide.

“I do think there is still a stigma, but I think the stigma is more around help-seeking behaviors as opposed to mental health in general,” Dr. Nyaka NiiLampti, NFL vice president of wellness and clinical services, told USA TODAY Sports.

“The stigma is: Is it a sign of weakness to ask for help?”

At the last NFL owners meeting in late March, the league announced the expansion of its mental health services to mandate that all 32 teams must employ a full-time mental health clinician who operates at each team’s headquarters. Previously, the league required teams to have a part-time clinician. Additionally, the NFL is now partnering with Cigna to form a network of specialists for players – and their families – to tap into beyond the team specialists.

“You would be surprised at how receptive players are at using these resources,” said NiiLampti, who worked in a similar capacity for the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) before joining the NFL. “I’ve had players who say, ‘Listen, we’ve got an athletic trainer, right? I’ve got a strength and conditioning coach. Why would I not have somebody who’s going to work with me in terms of what’s going on in my head?’ ”

NiiLampti hopes that by expanding the NFL program, challenges in getting support and resources immediately will be addressed. Undoubtedly, when crisis strikes, timing is critical.

“They don’t have the time. I need to work with somebody now!” NiiLampti said. “We need to find a way to get them in, strike while the iron’s hot.”

Haskins was unaware that the NFL recently announced its added emphasis on mental health support programs yet applauds the effort. As he reflects on his son’s journey, he suspects a barrier existed with an inability to acknowledge his challenges from a mental health perspective.

“I think that’s what the problem was. He wasn’t strong enough to say, ‘Hey, I need help,’ ” Haskins said. “But we knew something was wrong. That’s why the celebration (on May 16) is a platform for people to know about the warning signs.”        

Put yourself in the father’s shoes. There is no playbook for losing a son or daughter. The grieving, Haskins realizes, will continue for the rest of his life. He pointed out that he and Tamara are still grieving the losses of their young mothers in 1988 yet have been forced to cope with losing their son in a different context. There was never a chance to say goodbye before Dwayne, Jr. was struck by a dump truck while crossing a highway in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., in the early morning of April 9, 2022.

And the circumstances surrounding the death – according to the toxicology report, Dwayne, Jr., was legally drunk with ketamine and other drugs in his system, fueling allegations of foul play – left many unanswered questions. Dwayne, Jr., who played his third and final NFL season as backup with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2021, was in Florida for several weeks of offseason training.

While Haskins didn’t address the controversies, including a dismissed lawsuit pertaining to image rights against Dwayne Jr.’s widow, Kalabrya, it seems clear that in processing the tragedy the focus on mental health is an anchor – in addition to his Christian faith.

At the upcoming event, they will use an acronym, “NINO,” to hammer home a theme of heeding warning signs. He’s hoping it will ultimately be widely recognized as a distress signal.

“NINO – ‘No, I’m not OK’ – is going to be a codeword for people who don’t understand or don’t know how to articulate their emotions,” Haskins said. “We believe that if we can get this acronym in place, we’ll be able to save more lives, or get people the attention or assistance from mental health organizations like NAMI to provide solutions.”

Talk about addressing a stigma. Here’s a suggestion, NFL: Enlist Haskins to visit teams to address their players by sharing his journey. Just imagine the real talk in those sessions.

Especially now, as so many NFL coaches and executives maintain that after the tragedies in recent months, they are more sensitive to mental health challenges. The awareness has resonated to the point that some say it was an increasing factor in evaluating prospects heading into the recent draft.

“This generation has a lot of stress, a lot of anxiety, maybe handle it a lot differently than our generation,” Les Snead, the Los Angeles Rams GM, told USA TODAY Sports, alluding to societal patterns. “But I do know this, too: If you think about what they’ve gone through, this group’s been getting driven.

“You’re a professional athlete, you’re a company. You make a bad play and the next thing you know, you’re a meme. I know there are other variables, but being a general manager and a father, you definitely understand what this generation’s reality is.”

Haskins knows. What happens on the field and on social media only scratches the surface. One of his key messages for the upcoming event addresses what he calls, “the perseverance of the dream,” which encompasses myriad potential pitfalls.

If he sounds like a man with a spiritual calling, he will not disagree.

Haskins says matter-of-factly that his campaign is inspired by this message from God: “For you guys to cope, you need to share this.”

He can also imagine a message from his son.

“Dwayne is looking down at us right now,” Haskins said. “And it’s, ‘I’m proud of you mom and dad. You’re bringing awareness on my behalf.’ ”

Which is quite the noble purpose.

If you or someone you know needs mental health resources and support, please call, text or chat with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or visit 988lifeline.org for 24/7 access to free and confidential services.

Contact Bell at jbell@usatoday.com or follow on X: @JarrettBell

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Dwayne Haskin Jr.'s dad opens up about son's mental health before tragic death

Just when the Detroit Tigers needed someone to step up and be a presence in a sea of calamity, someone to throw them a life raft, someone to make them feel like their world isn’t collapsing around them, along comes Framber Valdez acting like a human Titanic.

Valdez is the Tigers’ new ace, their highest-paid player, the one the Tigers desperately are relying on to keep their postseason hopes alive until Tarik Skubal returns to the mound later this summer.

And on Tuesday evening, he melted down for the entire Tigers’ franchise to see, reminding everyone of the ugly warts in this talented left-handed pitcher.

Valdez’s selfish act of immaturity was so outrageous in the Tigers’ 10-3 shellacking to the Boston Red Sox that when he intentionally hit Red Sox shortstop Trevor Story with a 94.4 mph fastball in the middle of his back during his latest temper tantrum, even his own manager couldn’t stand up for him.

“We play a really good brand of baseball here,’’ Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said in his press conference after the game. “That doesn't feel like it. That's not judging intent. I have no idea.

“But when you go out on the field and end up in those confrontations, you usually feel like you're in your right.

“It didn't feel good being out there."

In other words, how are you going to actually fight for your own teammate when you feel like punching him yourself?

“I understand," Hinch said. "I understand their (Red Sox) frustration and the optics. I understand the whole thing.’’

Valdez, who gave up nine hits and 10 runs runs (seven earned) in just three innings, insisted with a straight face that he wasn’t deliberately trying to hit Story after giving up back-to-back homers, saying the pitch simply got away from him, and there’s no way he deserved to be ejected.

“Not at all," Valdez said through interpreter Carlos Guillen. “It was not on purpose. It might've looked like that but it wasn't. I was trying to throw a strike after two consecutive home runs, and the pitch just came out of my hand.

“It wasn't on purpose.’’

Benches clear in the 4th inning of the Red Sox-Tigers game in Detroit. pic.twitter.com/8CigiKH63L

— MLB (@MLB) May 5, 2026

Oh, of course not.

There is no chance that this same man who drilled his own teammate in the chest with a fastball last season with the Houston Astros would now intentionally hit an opponent.

No way, right?

Right?

Anyone else believe him?

Yes, just in case anyone forgot, this is the same guy who was so angry after giving up a grand slam to New York Yankees center fielder Trent Grisham last September, that he crossed up teammate and catcher Cesar Salazar by throwing a 92.8 mph sinker that slammed into his chest protector. Instead of apologizing, Valdez turned his back in disgust.

Valdez, summoned into Astros manager Joe Espada’s office after the game, told reporters it was simply miscommunication.

And you wonder why he was still on the free-agent market a week before spring training, signing a three-year, $115 million contract when he was expected to receive a deal close to free-agent starter Dylan Cease’s six-year, $210 million deal with the Toronto Blue Jays?

Now, with the Tigers badly needing an influx of help, with three members of their opening-day starting rotation and 14 players on the injured list, they are about to be playing one man short.

Valdez, 2-2 with a 4.57 ERA, surely will be suspended at least five days for his actions that should be announced Wednesday.

“I do not expect to get suspended,’’ said Valdez, who chose that moment to throw his first four-seam fastball of the season.

Maybe he should look around the room, and see if there’s a soul in the Tigers’ clubhouse that feels the same.

If you gave them a lie detector test, they’d probably all come to the same conclusion as Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy.

“I thought it was weak and I thought everybody saw it,’’ Tracy told reporters. “Their side, our side, I think everybody saw it. It was weak.”

Really, once Willson Contreras and Wilyer Abreu opened the fourth inning by hitting mammoth home runs off Valdez, with Contreras flipping his bat after his 449-foot shot, Story could sense it was coming.

“I was in there ready to hit,’’ Story said, “and it showed up way behind me, off the numbers. I think we all know what’s what ... it’s pretty indisputable.’’

Story glared toward Valdez after being hit, players poured out of the dugouts, but there were no punches thrown or even shoves. Why fight when everyone is in full agreement of what happened?

“We handled it,” Story said. “We said what we said on the field, and I think that’s where it stays.”

Now, Michael Hill, senior vice president of on-field operations for MLB, will have his say.

And, perhaps behind closed doors in a meeting with Valdez, Hinch will have plenty to say, too.

Follow Bob Nightengale on X and Bluesky.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Framber Valdez melts down as benches clear in Tigers vs. Red Sox game

Over this past weekend, Tennessee Titans head coach Robert Saleh welcomed 19 new members of the rookie class to Nashville for their first minicamp. While the eight draft choices didn’t do too much, they were present and got their first taste of the NFL.

Those 19 rookies were joined by a whopping 58 players on a tryout basis, making for an active two days at the facility. While some of the brief highlights looked good, Titans local reporter Paul Kuharsky took to social media to report that none of those 58 tryout players were offered a contract following the camp.

The #Titans will not sign anyone from their 58-player tryout class.

— Paul Kuharsky (@PaulKuharskyNFL) May 5, 2026

This does not mean that it won’t happen; there is a long way to go before training camp, and things can and will happen throughout offseason team activities (OTAs).

Currently, the Titans' roster sits at 91 after using an international exemption on David Ebuke Agoha, meaning they would have to make some moves to bring someone on board. Something that has been mentioned as a possibility in recent weeks by both Mike Borgonzi and other front office personnel.

This article originally appeared on Titans Wire: Titans not signing any tryout players following rookie minicamp

Kansas City Chiefs running back Kenneth Walker III recently spoke with Kay Adams on her show to discuss Patrick Mahomes' influence on his free-agent signing decisions and on building chemistry on the field.

"We've been working on getting connected in the passing game and everything, so that's good. I feel like I'll be used more in the pass game," said Walker, who praised Mahomes' focus on the game plan. "He's really good at being detailed with the whole team, and that chemistry is going to keep building."

Last season with the Seattle Seahawks, Walker rushed for 1,027 yards and five touchdowns. He was also impactful in the passing game with 31 receptions for 282 yards. Mahomes reportedly was in contact with general manager Brett Veach, keeping an eye on Walker during his Super Bowl run.

Chiefs RB Kenneth Walker III says he's working with Patrick Mahomes to be more involved in the pass game 👀@Kenneth_Walker9 | @PatrickMahomes | @Chiefs | @heykayadamspic.twitter.com/Yho3ZwSjJI

— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) May 5, 2026

"I feel like it would have had a lot to do with it, you know, he's (Mahomes) the best quarterback in the league," said Walker. "So, I feel like he's got a lot of power in there. I'm glad he does because I'm here now."

The Super Bowl LX MVP signed a maximum of $45,000,000 over three years, with $28,700,000 of his contract fully guaranteed to lead Kansas City's backfield. He is expected to play a much-needed role in the offense and supply Mahomes with weapons.

This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Chiefs RB Kenneth Walker III on Patrick Mahomes' free agency influence

New York Giants legend Lawrence Taylor has been released from the hospital following a severe case of pancreatitis, reports TMZ.

The Hall of Famer was discharged late last week and is now on the road to recovery. Pancreatitis is an extremely painful condition that can be life-threatening in severe cases, and Taylor was fortunate to receive prompt treatment during his hospital stay.

LT is not yet back to full strength, but the legendary outside linebacker is feeling “much better” and continues to improve on a daily basis. The positive update has brought relief to Giants fans and football enthusiasts alike, with Taylor expected to return to full health in the near future.

Over his 13-year NFL career with the Giants, Taylor recorded 142 sacks and 41 forced fumbles.

A 10-time Pro Bowler, Taylor is widely considered one of the greatest football players of all time, regardless of position. No words can fully capture his immense impact on both the Giants franchise and the game of football as a whole.

This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: New York Giants legend Lawrence Taylor released from hospital

The 2026 WNBA offseason has been a sprint.

After the WNBA and WNBPA reached a new CBA in March following months of negotiations, the offseason was condensed into a weeks-long period that featured an expansion draft, college draft, free agency and training camp in April.

The fast-paced offseason presented some unique challenges for each team's front office, with Phoenix Mercury general manager Nick U'Ren summing it up with a this thought: "Few other leagues have gone through what this league just went through in terms of doing everything in a 3-4 week period."

Some teams were able to thrive in the chaos. The Las Vegas Aces (A'ja Wilson, Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray) and New York Liberty (Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu and Jonquel Jones) kept their cores in tact, while the Liberty took it a step further with the addition of three-time All-Star Satou Sabally.

The same can't be said about some rosters that were decimated in free agency, like the Seattle Storm. USA TODAY Sports breaks down the winners and losers of the truncated offseason.

Winners

Dallas Wings

The Dallas Wings finished 10-34 last season, tied for last place in the WNBA standings with the Chicago Sky, despite a sensational Rookie of the Year campaign from No. 1 overall pick Paige Bueckers. The Wings used its 2026 No. 1 pick to select UConn's Azzi Fudd to improve the team's perimeter shooting after finishing second-to-last in 3-point percentage (30.4) last year. The Wings also allowed the second-most opponent points per game last season and made moves in free agency to shore up their interior with the addition of Alanna Smith, the 2025 Defensive Player of the Year, and Jessica Shepard.

New York Liberty

The New York Liberty's shocking first-round playoff exit just one season after winning a title meant the team needed to retool its roster and get healthy. New York was able to do both in the offseason, returning Sabrina Ionescu, Jonquel Jones and Breanna Stewart, plus adding three-time All-Star forward Satou Sabally. The Liberty also re-signed Betnijah Lany-Hamilton, a former starter for the franchise and a glue player that they will utilize on both ends of the floor. New York also added head coach, Chris DeMarco, who should bring his experience with individual skill development and systems to the team.

More: Sabrina Ionescu injury update: Latest on Liberty star's ankle injury

Atlanta Dream

The Atlanta Dream had a disappointing end to their 2025 season. After a franchise-best 30 wins in the regular season, Atlanta lost its first-round playoff series to Indiana. Still, the Dream remained confident in their core players and knew they wanted to run it back with the same group. Atlanta emerged from free agency victorious with four of its five starters, plus two-time All-Star Angel Reese, following a trade. That kind of feat is hard to pull off, but Atlanta seems poised to not only redeem its playoff loss but also the top-five defense that helped it cement the franchise as a contender.

Los Angeles Sparks

After missing the playoffs for the fifth consecutive season, things aren't looking so bad for the Sparks heading into the second season of coach Lynne Roberts' tenure. Kelsey Plum — who was fourth in the league in scoring last season — returned to LA on a team-friendly deal, taking a discount to allow the Sparks to bring in other talented players. And the team took advantage of its cap space, bringing in Nneka Ogwumike, who won an MVP and led the Sparks to a championship in 2016. LA gave up Rickea Jackson in a trade to the Chicago Sky, but received two-time All-Star Ariel Atkins in return. The Sparks also re-signed Dearica Hamby, added Erica Wheeler in free agency, and potentially got the steal of the draft by picking up South Carolina's Ta'Niya Latson in the second round.

Losers

Seattle Storm

The Seattle Storm will look completely different after losing five players that accounted for 67.5 points per game last season in Nneka Ogwumike, Skylar Diggins, Brittney Sykes, Gabby Williams and Erica Wheeler. The Storm returned Ezi Magbegor (9.7 ppg) and Dominique Malonga (7.7 ppg), who will both have to take the next step offensively to replace the lost production. Seattle signed Natisha Hiedeman (7.3 ppg) and Stefanie Dolson (3.7 ppg) in free agency, drafted Awa Fam third overall and acquired Flau'jae Johnson in a draft-day trade with the Golden State Valkyries, but losing over 82% of your total scoring will be hard to replace.

Chicago Sky

The core of the Chicago Sky's roster has changed for the third consecutive season, and while the team has managed to add new pieces like Rickea Jackson, Natasha Cloud and Skylar Diggins to help recoup losses like Ariel Atkins and Angel Reese, continuity matters when trying to win a championship. Chicago is also dealing with several injuries to begin the 2026 season, and that's just never good for a team that needs as much time to get as possible. Courney Vandersloot is still out after a season-ending ACL injury, and Azurá Stevens and DiJonai Carrington are also out with unclear injury timelines.

More: Why Natasha Cloud’s arrival meant the end for Hailey Van Lith in Chicago

Phoenix Mercury

Unlike last season, when the Mercury had two returning players, Phoenix has nine back for this season, including MVP candidate Alyssa Thomas and Kahleah Copper. But Phoenix wasn't able to re-sign Satou Sabally as the three-time All-Star walked in free agency after one season. Sabally was the team's leading scorer last season, and Phoenix hasn't brought in a replacement for her production. Instead, Mercury general manager Nick U'Ren said they will take a by-committee approach. That's easier said than done. The Mercury drafted international prospects Ines Pitarch-Granel and Eszter Ratkai, who won't play this year, and signed French forwards Valériane Ayayi and Noémie Brochant, who are not with the team yet.

Portland Fire

In this expansion franchise's first season, there's simply not a lot on this roster that inspires optimism about the Fire's immediate future. It is largely a collection of players who are either young, unproven or have failed to find a consistent role with past teams in the WNBA. Perhaps the exception is Bridget Carleton, the team's highest-paid player at $1.19 million, but even she has yet to prove she can carry an offense — averaging 9.6 points per game in her best season with the Minnesota Lynx. The hope here is a few of these players — from Haley Jones and Emily Engstler to Megan Gustafson and Sug Sutton — can seize opportunities and have breakout seasons.

The USA TODAY app gets you to the heart of the news —  Download for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper and more.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: The WNBA offseason was quick, who are the winners and losers?

RUSE has been re-released on Steam with full Steam Deck support After ten years of being MIA, the one-of-a-kind real-time strategy (RTS) game RUSE has returned to PC. The game returns to Steam with all its DLC included, and existing owners will now receive all the game’s DLC. RUSE is an RTS game from Eugen […]

The post RUSE returns to Steam after 10 years – The unique strategy game has returned appeared first on OC3D.

Kris Boyd is urging Rangers to put their title frustrations aside and focus on finishing second in the league in order to secure a Champions League qualifying place.

A runners-up finish in this season's Scottish Premiership secures a place in the second qualifying round of the Uefa tournament and would give Rangers another crack at reaching Europe's premier club competetion.

Before the split Danny Rohl's side were just a point behind Hearts, but back-to-back defeats at home to Motherwell and away to the league leaders leave the Glasgow club seven points adrift with nine to play for.

While Rangers would need a lot to fall in their favour to have any hope of salvaging the title, they could catch Glasgow rivals Celtic in second place.

"I think there'll be more questions asked if Rangers don't get that second place," Boyd told Sky Sports.

"When you look at FFP (Financial Fair Play) and Rangers were on the threshold of that last season, you're then trying to rebuild another team.

"There's already players announced that they're going to be leaving. They've spent a lot of money already, but to allow Rangers to spend the money they'll need to spend to get back up there challenging next year, you're going to need every advantage you can get, and that will be that Champions League qualifier.

"So Rangers need to approach Celtic Park on Sunday as a game they must win. It's bad enough finishing second up here, but to finish third would be a huge, huge blow for Rangers."

Life of late has been a whirlwind of emotions for Duckens Nazon.

From the highest of highs - helping Haiti qualify for their first World Cup since 1974 - to fearing for his life while trying to escape the ongoing conflict in Iran, where he plays his club football for Esteghlal, it has been a turbulent time.

The 32-year-old, who spent six months of a colourful 13-year career spanning 13 clubs and eight countries in Paisley with St Mirren in 2019, now has his sights set on stunning the nation he briefly called home.

As Haiti's record scorer with 44 goals in 76 caps, starting in his country's first World Cup match in 52 years against the Scots will cap off a wild spell for the striker, who claims his life was saved by an eSIM during his recent evacuation from Iran.

• Celtic linked with Leonard and Stewart - gossip
• What is Scotland's most iconic goal? This time - McFadden v Tierney
• Listen: Is it now a two-team title race? Fan views

'I watched bombs drop from 100 metres away'

Nazon was set to depart Iran on the day the Israeli-US strikes began, but he was ordered off the flight for safety reasons.

Meanwhile, his wife from Morocco - a nation Haiti will also face in their World Cup group alongside Scotland and Brazil - and their four children were safe in France, where the former Coventry City striker was born.

Nazon is thankful his family were not part of his "crazy" evacuation trip, during which he watched bombs drop from just 100 metres away before finally escaping via Azerbaijan.

Speaking on the BBC's Sacked in the Morning podcast, he said: "I was about to take a plane to go to Istanbul or Paris, then the steward told everybody to get off because the war had started.

"Imagine you have your wife and your children by your side in that situation. If you're alone, I wouldn't say I don't care about my life, but you are more relaxed and taking decisions is easier and faster."

On the complications he experienced at the Iran-Azerbaijan border, he added: "I was stuck at the border for maybe 48 hours. They refused me, sent me back to Iran and I slept at the border.

"But I was so lucky because before the war started I bought an eSIM. After that, they cut the internet in Iran.

"So I had no contact and I was praying that when I reached the border I would get some signal - and it worked. This saved my life.

"I could talk to the French embassy and they helped me to get my passport. They spoke to the Azerbaijani forces and then I got out."

St Mirren, Scottish weather & ticket prices

With domestic football in Iran suspended because of the ongoing conflict, Nazon is following an individual training programme to prepare for the World Cup.

The current Haiti squad have become heroes for leading the nation back to football's grandest stage, where they will make just their second appearance at the finals.

Nazon acknowledges that the players are now "part of the country's history" but insists they will play without "extra pressure", starting with their opener against Scotland.

"We are ambassadors of our country and we know we have a responsibility," he says. "We know the young people also see us as examples.

"But we don't have to put extra pressure on ourselves and, when we play for our country, it's more a mission and we do it with passion and with love."

On loan at St Mirren from Belgian club Sint-Truiden for the second half of the 2018-19 season, Nazon "had a story" in Scotland. It was short-lived, though.

The forward played 12 games, scoring twice, but said he was "not ready for this kind of aggression and fight" in Scottish football, while the weather also played a part.

"I remember one game we had sun, snow and rain," he recalls. "After this, I was like, OK, I'm done."

Weather is unlikely to be an issue for Nazon this summer in North America. The striker, a friend of Scotland defender Dominic Hyam - with whom he played at Coventry - did, however, voice concerns about inflated ticket prices for the upcoming World Cup matches.

"There is only one thing that starts to go in my brain - it's the ticket prices," he says. "Hopefully this is not going to affect the crowd and people coming to the stadium, because we want this atmosphere.

"We want this energy around us. I'm looking forward to seeing Scottish people and Haitian people in the stadiums. This is going to be important."

Every great team throughout history has had a few key partnerships that fans instantly recall and fawn over.

For many Celtic fans, the level to which manager Martin O'Neill and Henrik Larsson were on the same wavelength is just as crucial as the striker's link-up play with Chris Sutton on the park.

It wasn't always sunshine and rainbows, though, with the sole time Larsson was on the end of O'Neill's half-time rage still a bone he picks with his former gaffer when they meet up well over 20 years later.

"Do I remember? Absolutely, because it only happened once," O'Neill recalls when asked about giving the striker a telling off in the changing room.

"It was against Dundee United and Henrik was playing in the first half... unlike him, he was flicking the ball all over the place.

"I think he flicked two over the stand and they ended up down at Dens Park, he was awful in the first half.

"So I had a go, and I think the players actually were in one aspect, secretly delighted that Henrik is getting a little bit of stick.

"I remember it distinctly because he was brilliant in the second half, that was his response."

Johan Mjallby, who also features in the Larsson edition of Icons of Football, was sitting next to the striker in the dressing room at the break and remembers it very well, as it was a one-off.

He adds: "And isn't that the best way to just shut your manager's mouth off up? That's Henrik."

In 2018 O'Neill, Sutton, and Larsson were all working during the World Cup in various punditry capacities, and when they met up, there was one item on the agenda for the Swede.

"The three of us went for something to eat, and that was the topic of conversation for about half an hour," O'Neill says.

"Henrik still hadn't forgiven me for embarrassing him in front of the rest of the team, but it stood him in good stead, and he's fine."

WATCH: Icons of Football: Henrik Larsson on BBC Scotland on Thursday, 7 May at 22:00 BST

Aberdeen manager Stephen Robinson wants to sign on-loan striker Toyosi Olusanya on a permanent basis, with the 28-year-old out of contract with Houston Dynamo this summer but with the Major League Soccer club having an option to extend it for another year. (Daily Record)

Aberdeen manager Stephen Robinson says some of his summer signings "won't be sexy" but will be granite solid in delivering seven or eight out of 10 performances in every game. (Press & Journal)

Inverness Caledonian Thistle are keen to retain striker Alfie Stewart with the 19-year-old on-loan striker's contract with Aberdeen not being renewed. (Press & Journal)

Read Wednesday's Scottish Gossip in full.

Managerless Hartlepool United have released 13 players after finishing ninth in the National League.

Pools, who were taken over by American businessman Landon Smith in December, ended the season under the management of Nicky Featherstone but confirmed last month that he would be leaving at the end of the campaign.

Joe Aungiers, Adam Campbell, Matty Daly, Nathan Ferguson, Sam Folarin, Nick Hayes, Gavan Holohan, Danny Johnson, Vadaine Oliver, Tom Parkes, Alex Reid, Louis Stephenson and Brad Walker have all be let go at the end of their contracts.

The club are in discussions with Luke Charman, Campbell Darcy and Jack Hunter about new deals.

Kian Foreman, Max Kouogun, Jamie Miley and Nathan Sheron were all under contract for next season and options have been activated on the deals of Jay Benn, Josh Donaldson and Reiss McNally to keep them at the club for 2026-27.

Celtic are linked with two players with Scottish Premiership rivals as Arne Engels is tipped for a summer exit from the Scottish champions.

Celtic have put Marc Leonard firmly on their summer radar and will continue to monitor the 24-year-old midfielder in his final three games of the season on loan to title rivals Heart of Midlothian from Birmingham City. (Daily Record)

Celtic are keeping tabs on Falkirk striker Barney Stewart and have the 22-year-old on their radar as an option to bolster their attack this summer. (Football Insider)

RB Leipzig are closely monitoring Arne Engels with a departure from Celtic planned this summer and with clubs from the Premier League, Serie A and La Liga also keen on the 22-year-old midfielder. (Florian Plettenberg on X)

Raith Rovers plan talks with Rangers as they hope to retain 20-year-old midfielder Paul Nsio, who has been on loan to the Scottish Championship club. (The Scotsman)

Dundee defender Ryan Astley wants to remain with Dundee, with the 24-year-old out of contract this summer. (The Courier)

• Wednesday's English & European transfer rumours
• O'Neill says Hearts can be regular title contenders
• Tuesday's Scottish gossip

Aberdeen manager Stephen Robinson wants to sign on-loan striker Toyosi Olusanya on a permanent basis, with the 28-year-old out of contract with Houston Dynamo this summer but with the Major League Soccer club having an option to extend it for another year. (Daily Record)

Aberdeen manager Stephen Robinson says some of his summer signings "won't be sexy" but will be granite solid in delivering seven or eight out of 10 performances in every game. (Press & Journal)

Inverness Caledonian Thistle are keen to retain striker Alfie Stewart with the 19-year-old on-loan striker's contract with Aberdeen not being renewed. (Press & Journal)

Highly-rated 15-year-old Celtic striker Zion Pullan has been called up for Spain for the first time. (The Herald)

Republic of Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrimsson has confirmed Hibernian striker Owen Elding intends to play for his team amid continued passport issues. (Edinburgh Evening News)

Former Arsenal defender Matt Upson believes Mikel Arteta's side are "good enough" to win the Champions League this season, having reached the club's first final in the esteemed competition in 20 years.

"The 2025-26 season has changed for Arsenal yet again," Upson said on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily after the final whistle. "All of a sudden, the mood has been uplifted from being really concerning.

"The players will actually start looking forward to the rest of their Premier League fixtures now. There was a sense of dread building up to it, but it should be more excitement-based now."

Upson, who won six trophies during his time at Emirates Stadium, added: "Arsenal have to believe they are at the elite table now. They are good enough to go on and win this competition.

"This group can definitely do it and these are the kinds of moments that really feed that belief.

"You do have to cultivate that feeling of being one of the best teams in Europe, it doesn't just happen, and winning football matches against top teams certainly helps."

When asked who he would prefer his former side to face in the Budapest final, Upson replied: "I don't think there is a 'better option' between Bayern Munich and Paris St-Germain.

"It is the Champions League final so whoever you're playing it is going to be the most challenging game you could possibly think of.

"Luckily the players can now sit back, watch the other semi-final unravel, and have a good look at the team they are going to face in the final."

Listen to Football Daily on BBC Sounds

Bryson DeChambeau says he will focus on growing his YouTube channel and only "play tournaments that want me" if LIV Golf does not survive.

The future of the breakaway series was plunged into doubt when Saudi Arabia announced it will withdraw its multibillion dollar backing at the end of the year.

American DeChambeau, 32, last week dismissed reports he is looking to leave LIV before the end of the year as "completely untrue".

"I think, from my perspective, I'd love to grow my YouTube channel three times, maybe even more," DeChambeau told ESPN before for this week's LIV tournament at Trump National Golf Club.

"I would love to. I'd love to do a bunch of dubbing in different languages, giving the world more reason to watch YouTube.

"And then I'd love to play tournaments that want me."

DeChambeau's LIV contract is up at the end of this season and he was looking to sign a lucrative new deal before Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) announced it was set to pull its financial support, with reports suggesting he wants $500m (£370m) to stay.

The two-time US Open winner said he was "completely shocked" by the PIF announcement as he believed it would finance LIV Golf until 2032.

"I haven't had any communication. And unfortunately, things are moving on in a different direction. Obviously, they wanted to move on," he said on Tuesday.

LIV Golf, which caused a major split in 2022 when it started luring star names away from the PGA Tour with the offer of huge pay increases, is now searching to find replacement financial investment under a new independent board.

DeChambeau, who joined LIV in 2022, turned down the chance to return to the PGA Tour earlier this year under a returning member programme.

"The egos need to get dropped," DeChambeau said.

"Everybody needs to come in with a level-headed playing field, with an opportunistic mindset to grow the game of golf.

"That's why I came over here. That's why I do what I do on YouTube."

Should the Washington Commanders kick the tires on another receiver other than Brandon Aiyuk?

Since the 2025 season concluded, every couple of days, the San Francisco 49ers receiver has been the subject of much interest among the Commanders' fan base. With Washington GM Adam Peters not legally permitted to discuss another player under contract with another team, there is no way to discern how interested Peters is in Aiyuk.

If Peters determines he is not interested in Aiyuk, might Peters be interested in Stefon Diggs? Diggs is a local product, having played at Our Lady of Good Counsel (Olney, MD), later becoming a Maryland Terrapin. Diggs is out there, an unrestricted free agent.

Stefon Diggs appreciation post. pic.twitter.com/PxyZ5XVVbs

— Foxboro Forever (@_FoxboroForever) May 5, 2026

The Commanders don't know if Aiyuk is healthy and recovered. How could they know? They can't legally work out Aiyuk. In addition, Aiyuk has not played an NFL game since the 49ers seventh game in the 2024 season. Thus, the last 17 regular season games the 49ers have played, Aiyuk has not been in uniform.

On the other hand, Diggs played in all 17 games last season, catching 85 receptions for the AFC Champion, New England Patriots. Having such a great and productive season, the question is, why, then, haven't the Pats re-signed Diggs to a contract?

Diggs has played in all 17 games in three of the last five seasons, and in 2022, he missed only one game. He has been durable and productive. In 2020, Diggs produced a huge season, collecting 127 receptions for 1,535 yards, leading the NFL in both categories. Paired with QB Kirk Cousins in 2019, Diggs averaged an impressive 17.9 yards per reception on his 63 catches.

But there is another side to the coin with Diggs. He will turn 33 in November. Secondly, why has Diggs already played on four other NFL teams? He was with the Vikings (2015-19), Bills (2020-23), Texans (2024) and Patriots (2025). Why have his last two teams (Texans and Patriots) both let him go to free agency? Why did the Vikings trade Diggs following the season, when he averaged 17.9 yards per reception? Why did the Bills trade Diggs to the Texans?

Though Diggs has been paired with effective quarterbacks in Cousins, Josh Allen, C.J. Stroud, and Drake Maye. The Bills signed Diggs to a four-year contract in 2022, but after only two seasons, they traded him. The Patriots signed Diggs to a three-year deal, and though he had 85 receptions in 2025, he was released after only one season in New England.

There was a civil lawsuit where a former girlfriend, Mulan Hernandez, accused Diggs of physical abuse. Hernandez's lawsuit was filed two months after Diggs filed a separate lawsuit, which accused her of extortion. In an additional case, on Tuesday, Diggs was found not guilty in a case where he was accused of strangulation and assault and battery stemming from a pay dispute with his personal chef on December 2, 2025.

Perhaps, these are enough red flags to discourage Peters from signing Diggs, even for a single season?

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: Is WR Stefon Diggs now a legit option?

The Oklahoma City Thunder proved too strong for the Los Angeles Lakers to take a 1-0 lead in the NBA's Conference semi-finals.

The defending champions are the Western Conference's top seed and made a strong start to the best-of-seven series with a 108-90 win at home on Tuesday.

The Thunder produced a balanced offensive performance while their defence restricted the Lakers to their lowest score in a play-off game since 2021.

LeBron James claimed a game-high 27 points for the Lakers while Chet Holmgren led the Thunder with 24 points and 12 rebounds.

The NBA's reigning Most Valuable Player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Ajay Mitchell added 18 points apiece for the hosts.

"You're playing the world champs, your margin for error in terms of mistakes is not that high," said Lakers head coach JJ Redick.

"[There were] just too many tonight. We've got to clean that up."

LA guard Luka Doncic remained out with a hamstring injury and could also miss game two on Thursday.

The Detroit Pistons drew first blood in their series with the Cleveland Cavaliers, holding off a late rally to claim a 111-101 home win.

Cade Cunningham scored 23 points for the Eastern Conference's top seed Detroit, with Tobias Harris adding 20.

Donovan Mitchell led the Cavs with 23 points while James Harden added 22 but had seven turnovers.

• Timberwolves draw first blood despite Wembanyama record

One strike away from defeat while facing the nation’s top-ranked college baseball team, Loyola Marymount deployed its only remaining weapon.

Sprinklers.

An accidental spray that resulted from a system malfunction was a novel idea Tuesday night but couldn’t dampen dominant UCLA.

After milling about for 30 seconds white waiting for the sprinklers to stop with two out and two strikes in the bottom of the ninth inning, Bruins reliever Justin Lee struck out the final batter on the next pitch.

That allowed UCLA to hold on for an 8-4 victory over the Lions at Page Stadium on a night that seven Bruins pitchers combined for 11 strikeouts and no walks.

UCLA coach John Savage said he was pleased that his team was able to continue developing players during its final midweek game of the regular season. Catcher Kasen Khansarinia, who did not start any of his team’s games last weekend, drove in two runs and had a solid game defensively. Second baseman Phoenix Call, who played in just one game last weekend, had two hits.

Several relievers who had not been used recently delivered solid outings against the Lions (12-38).

“It’s just about adding pieces to the team,” Savage said, “and making sure you have enough depth and inventory to go down the road.”

The only thing left to add to the arsenal of what might be the nation’s most complete team is an umbrella.

“I guess it’s a time thing,” Savage said of the unexpected shower. “The game was too long so the sprinklers said, ‘Hey, let’s go and get out of here.’ ”

What it means

Having become the first team in the country to win 40 games last week before they swept Michigan State, the Bruins kept their seasonlong momentum intact.

With six games left in the regular season, UCLA (44-4) has a chance to reach the 50-win threshold before the Big Ten Tournament.

Turning point

It felt like the game was over in the top of the first inning.

UCLA sent eight batters to the plate and scored three runs with the benefit of only two hits.

Two LMU pitchers walked two batters and hit a third, compounding their early struggles. It was no way to start an upset bid against a team as mighty as the Bruins.

Did you see that?

UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky made a couple of outstanding defensive plays, charging a slow roller in the first inning and ranging deep into the hole in the fifth.

MVP

UCLA freshman reliever Mack Edwards generated the biggest show of excitement from teammates when he pitched a perfect sixth inning.

After the left-hander struck out the final batter of the inning, his teammates surged out of the dugout to mob him in excitement.

Their enthusiasm was understandable. It was just Edwards’ second appearance of the season, and his first had not gone well — he gave up a run-scoring hit to the only batter he faced.

Edwards’ latest outing lowered his earned-run average from 99.00 to a considerably more agreeable 9.00.

“It was just fun to see a guy stay sharp who hasn’t been used,” Savage said. 

Injury updates

Savage said first baseman Mulivai Levu was sick but should return before the team’s next series.

Ace Logan Reddemann, who is battling arm fatigue, remains on track to throw his next pitch in the Big Ten Tournament, Savage said.

“We’re ramping him up and we’re looking forward to him being a contributor and being a big factor to this thing,” Savage said. “I mean, he’s one of the reasons we are in the position we are, so we need him for the postseason run for sure.”

Up next

The Bruins open their final home series of the regular season at 7 p.m. Friday when they host Oregon at Jackie Robinson Stadium.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL, SOFTBALL SCORES
Tuesday’s Results 

BASEBALL 

CITY SECTION
El Camino Real 1, Granada Hills 0
Rise Kohyang 16, CNDLC 15
San Fernando 6, Granada Hills Kennedy 2
Santee 10, LA Jordan 4
University Prep Value 5, Smidt Tech 4

SOUTHERN SECTION
AAE 4, University Prep 3
Anaheim 7, Placentia Valencia 6
Arlington 3, Bishop Amat 2
Artesia 8, Garden Grove Santiago 1
Ayala 8, Mira Costa 3
Bethel Christian 18, Packinghouse Christian 1
Bishop Montgomery 3, Redondo Union 2
Bloomington 10, Arroyo Valley 0
Brentwood 10, Shalhevet 0
Buena Park 3, Segerstrom 2
California 7, Whittier Christian 6
Calvary Baptist 27, Crossroads Christian 0
Cantwell-Sacred Heart of Mary 6, Alhambra 4
Carter 5, Eisenhower 4
Chaminade 1, St. Francis 0
Charter Oak 8, West Covina 7
Chino 6, Montclair 5
Chino Hills 5, Rancho Cucamonga 2
Citrus Valley 2, Arrowhead Christian 1
Coastal Christian 5, Valley Christian Academy 3
Compton 14, Dominguez 3
Compton Centennial 5, St. Pius X-St. Matthias Academy 3
Covina 7, Hacienda Heights Wilson 0
Don Lugo 12, Diamond Ranch 1
Eastvale Roosevelt 7, Apple Valley 2
Elsinore 8, San Jacinto 0
El Modena 4, Anaheim Canyon 1
Estancia 15, Bolsa Grande 4
Etiwanda 3, Upland 1
Fontana 10, Rim of the World 3
Garden Grove 6, Santa Ana 0
Glenn 11, San Gabriel 0
Grand Terrace 4, Kaiser 0
Hesperia Christian 15, Excelsior Charter 14
Huntington Beach 3, Gahr 2
Indio 6, Coachella Valley 5
Katella 4, Fullerton 1
Laguna Hills 8, Ocean View 6
Lakeside 9, Indian Springs 5
La Serna 3, Laguna Beach 2
Lennox Academy 10, HMSA 9
Loara 5, Heritage Christian 4
Long Beach Cabrillo 5, Long Beach Jordan 1
Long Beach Wilson 6, Long Beach Poly 3
Los Osos 5, Damien 0
Maranatha 9, Valencia 3
Mary Star of the Sea 10, Glendale 4
Millikan 8, Lakewood 0
Mission Viejo 4, Aliso Niguel 1
Newbury Park 6, Oxnard 4
Ontario 4, Chaffey 1
Orange 2, Irvine 1
Orange County Pacifica Christian 3, Costa Mesa 1
Orange Lutheran 6, Mater Dei 5
Oxnard Pacifica 6, Channel Islands 1
Rowland 8, Northview 5
Santa Ana Calvary Chapel 2, Tustin 0
Santa Fe 9, La Salle 3
Santa Monica 6, St. Monica 4
Servite 1, Cypress 0
Shadow Hills 2, Xavier Prep 1
Sherman Oaks Notre Dame 7, Loyola 1
Sierra Canyon 6, Alemany 5
Silver Valley 3, Lucerne Valley 2
Southlands Christian 9, Avalon 2
St. Anthony 6, Paramount 1
Summit 7, Hesperia 0
Tahquitz 10, Colton 1
Temescal Canyon 3, West Valley 2
Thacher 13, Dunn 7
Trabuco Hills 6, Capistrano Valley Christian 2
Trinity Classical Academy 3, Desert Christian 0
Troy 4, South Pasadena 3
United Christian Academy 14, Anza Hamilton 8
Vasquez 12, Faith Baptist 0
Webb 9, Fairmont Prep 3
Western 8, Whitney 3
Westminster 8, Godinez 2
Whittier 8, Los Amigos 1
Woodcrest Christian 16, Los Altos 1
Yucaipa 10, La Quinta 2

INTERSECTIONAL 
Cathedral 14, Sotomayor 3
CIMSA 10, Public Safety Academy 0
SLOCA 19, Shandon 2

SOFTBALL 

CITY SECTION
Animo Robinson d. AHSA, forfeit
Smidt Tech 17, Alliance Bloomfield 7

SOUTHERN SECTION
Alhambra 26, San Gabriel 5
Alta Loma 5, South Hills 4
Anaheim Canyon 4, Cypress 0
Arlington 7, Orange Vista 4
Arroyo 23, Garey 3
Beaumont 2, Redlands East Valley 0
Bell Gardens 7, Mark Keppel 4
Brea Olinda 7, Sonora 5
Cantwell-Sacred Heart of Mary 5
Carter 12, Grand Terrace 3
Castaic 14, Canyon Country Canyon 8
Cerritos 9, Artesia 0
Chaffey 16, Ontario 3
Charter Oak 10, West Covina 0
Chino 11, Montclair 4
Citrus Valley 8, Cajon 7
Colton 11, Summit 7
Compton 13, Long Beach Jordan 11
Compton Early College 21, Compton Centennial 6
Costa Mesa 23, Godinez 11
Covina 10, Hacienda Heights Wilson 3
Crean Lutheran 17, Esperanza 7
Don Lugo 11, Diamond Ranch 1
Elsinore 13, West Valley 0
El Toro 11, Beckman 0
Firebaugh 17, Bellflower 16
Fontana 15, Rim of the World 5
Foothill Tech 15, Carpinteria 0
Fountain Valley 19, Corona del Mar 6
Fullerton 9, Segerstrom 1
Garden Grove Pacifica 12, El Modena 7
Gahr 9, La Mirada 7
Gardena Serra 14, St. Bernard 6
Hart 16, West Ranch 0
HMSA 13, Environmental Charter 3
Huntington Beach 20, Newport Harbor 0
Indio 25, Coachella Valley 0
Lakewood 8, Long Beach Wilson 6
La Salle 12, St. Monica 1
Los Alamitos 2, Marina 1
Los Altos 7, Colony 3
Lynwood 24, Dominguez 10
Mater Dei 9, JSerra 5
Millikan 22, Long Beach Cabrillo 0
Mission Viejo 8, Capistrano Valley 2
Moorpark 3, Simi Valley 1
Murrieta Valley 7, Great Oak 6
Northview 10, Rowland 0
Oak Park 10, Grace 3
Oaks Christian 20, Calabasas 0
Orange Lutheran 3, Santa Margarita 0
Paraclete 16, Lakewood St. Joseph 15
Paramount 12, Norwalk 4
Pasadena Poly 30, Westridge 17
Ramona Convent 12, Mary Star of the Sea 2
Rancho Mirage 19, Palm Desert 18
Rialto 9, Jurupa Hills 3
Riverside King 9, Ramona 1
Riverside Notre Dame 4, Bloomington 3
Royal 13, Camarillo 12
San Clemente 14, Tesoro 2
San Gorgonio 15, Arroyo Valley 10
San Jacinto 17, Tahquitz 6
Santa Ana Calvary Chapel 8, Ocean View 5
Schurr 19, Montebello 2
Silver Valley 20, Lucerne Valley 9
St. Anthony 7, Bishop Conaty-Loretto 1
St. Paul 12, Bishop Amat 8
Sunny Hills 19, Troy 1
Thousand Oaks 4, Agoura 3
Torrance 2, South Torrance 0
Tustin 3, Laguna Hills 2
United Christian Academy 13, La Sierra Academy 0
University Prep 15, Victor Valley 5
Valencia 19, Golden Valley 0
Valley Christian 13, Maranatha 0
Vasquez 11, Santa Clarita Christian 1
Ventura 13, Santa Clara 2
Viewpoint 5, Burbank Providence 1
Warren 2, Downey 1
Westlake 9, Newbury Park 3
Whittier Christian 10, Heritage Christian 0
Yorba Linda 3, Villa Park 1
Yucaipa 23, Redlands 0

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

ELMIRA, N.Y. (WETM) – Watkins Glen International is a place that’s given Connor Zilisch many memorable moments already in his young career.

In 2024, Zilisch earned his first O’Reilly Series win at just 18. Last year, he went back-to-back but an unexpected fall in victory lane took the joy of winning instantly away. Zilisch broke his collarbone after falling with his foot caught in the window net launching him head-first into the pavement. The scary scene not only took Zilisch out for last year’s Go Bowling at The Glen Cup Series race, but it pushed him to have surgery putting a plate and over 10 screws into his collarbone.

Trackhouse teammate, Shane van Gisbergen, went on to win The Go Bowling at The Glen in dominant fashion. Weeks later, Zilisch returned to Daytona last year and has never looked back. This weekend, Zilisch returns to race in three different circuits with the Truck Series on Friday along with van Gisbergen, The O’Reilly Series Saturday and then The Cup Series on Sunday.

Zilisch says it’s going to be a busy weekend but one that’s fulfilling especially with his history at The Glen.

“It’s certainly different, but at the same time you’re just trying to make a race car go fast around a racetrack,” Zilisch said. “As a race car driver that’s our job and that’s what we get paid to do.”

For Zilisch, who is looking for his first win of the season, there would be no better place to win again than at WGI.

“I’m looking forward to getting to run all three series and hopefully making it Sunday this time around.”

The NASCAR Truck Series Bully Hill Vineyards 176 at The Glen will be Friday at 4:30 pm on FS1. The O’Reilly Series Mission 200 at The Glen airs Saturday at 4 pm on The CW. And, The Go Bowling at The Glen will be Sunday at 3 pm on FS1.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com.

After an injury-hit 2025 season that still ended in a deep playoff run, the Indiana Fever are now entering the 2026 WNBA season with unfinished business. They’ve reinforced their roster, and most importantly, Caitlin Clark is healthy going into the season.

So, everything points to the Indiana Fever as genuine contenders this year. And after falling one step short last season, they will be looking to take that final step. As Caitlin Clark herself has said “I think we’re gonna be the favorite to win it all.”

Where They Finished Last Season

The Indiana Fever completed an unforgettable and deeply resilient 2025 campaign under head coach Stephanie White. They battled quite severe injury adversity. But they still had a reasonable finish. Specifically, they ended their regular season with a 24–20 record. That made them third in the Eastern Conference and sixth overall in the league.

And despite operating for significant stretches without Clark, they pushed the defending champion Las Vegas Aces all the way to a full five games in the WNBA semifinals. They also won the Commissioner’s Cup, defeating the Minnesota Lynx in the final.

Offseason Moves: Who’s In, Who’s Out

Like most WNBA teams, the Indiana Fever were far from idle during the offseason. In total, they brought in seven new key additions, four via free agency and three through the draft. They also re-signed five key members of their core and navigated five departures. Below is an outline of how the roster took shape.

Players Who Left Through Free Agency and The Expansion Draft

Players Brought in Through Free Agency and The Expansion Draft

Players Who Were Re-signed

Caitlin Clark entering her third year with the team, and Makayla Timpson, entering the second year of her original rookie contract were the only two returning players who remained under their existing contracts without needing renewals.

There are also two undrafted free agents, Megan McConnell, and Kayana Traylor, who are currently signed to training camp contracts and competing for roster spots.

Players to Watch

Of course, Caitlin Clark remains the biggest conversation starter on this Indiana Fever team. She was limited to just 13 games last season due injuries, and that really affected how their season turned out, however impressive it still was. Now, she returns at 100% health, which completely changes Indiana’s ceiling. A high-tempo offense driven by Clark has the potential to contend with the league’s top-tier teams.

Another key player to watch will be Aliyah Boston. Last season, with the backcourt depleted by injuries, she proved she could carry the team’s offense while anchoring the interior defense. Now, with Clark’s return drawing defensive pressure away from the paint, Boston becomes more free to dominate the glass and improve her interior scoring efficiency.

Raven Johnson, who came in as the 10th overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, is also definitely one to watch. As the reigning SEC Defensive Player of the Year and a two-time NCAA champion, Johnson is a true lockdown perimeter defender. She provides elite on-ball pressure, which will help slow down the league’s elite scoring guards.

And of course, beyond these three, there’s also Kelsey Mitchell, who is the undeniable veteran engine of the Indiana Fever. She delivered the best season of her career last year, averaging a career-high 20.2 points per game. With the team even more balanced now, there’s no reason why she wouldn’t be churning out top performances again.

Strengths Heading Into the Season

The Indiana Fever will enter 2026 with one of the most dynamic offensive engines in the league. They have a fully healthy Caitlin Clark, who will fuel their high-tempo system. And alongside Clark is Kelsey Mitchell, who adds another scoring threat. The team has also significantly improved its frontcourt depth and rebounding. Aliyah Boston remains the anchor in the paint. However, the additions of Monique Billings and Myisha Hines-Allen now brings more athleticism, length, and veteran toughness.

Defensively, the Indiana Fever have also addressed their biggest weakness from last season with Rookie Raven Johnson. Her presence gives Indiana a true lockdown option against elite guards.

But perhaps the strongest advantage that the Fever have going into this season is the fact that they managed to retain the core of their team. While several teams across the league underwent major changes, Indiana retained the core of its rotation from last season’s semifinal run. That familiarity and established chemistry will definitely allow them to execute more efficiently from the start.

Questions That Need Answers

One of the biggest questions surrounding the Indiana Fever this season is simple; can Caitlin Clark stay healthy across all 44 games? She was limited to just 13 appearances last year due to groin and ankle-related issues. And even in a preseason game against the Dallas Wings, she had a brief injury scare after an awkward fall. While it didn’t result in anything serious, it brought a flash of reality, about how much Indiana’s ceiling depends on her availability. Of course, head coach Stephanie White has said expressly that she will be managed more carefully this season. But over a long and physically demanding schedule, her durability remains the single biggest variable.

Another area of concern would be whether the Indiana Fever can truly hold its own against the league’s elite teams, particularly the Las Vegas Aces. Last season’s semifinal matchup exposed gaps in their perimeter defense and overall defensive consistency. While the roster has improved on paper, those upgrades still need to translate into real, high-pressure game situations. That will ultimately determine whether they are genuine title contenders or just a step below.

What are the Season Prediction

With the performance they had last season, and the team they have now assembled, the Indiana fever are definitely top contenders for the WNBA title this season. Last season, they finished with a 24-20 record. This season, the most reasonable projection would be at least 30 wins.

From a playoff standpoint, the expectation is that Indiana will comfortably secure a postseason spot. And after pushing the eventual champion Aces to five games in the 2025 semifinals, without a fully healthy Caitlin Clark, the expectation now is that they could go a little further. The team has managed to retain the core players that played that semi final. They’ve also added more depth to the team. Alongside all that, Caitlin Clark is healthy. So, it wouldn’t be an overstatement to predict a WNBA Finals appearance for them this season.

The post Indiana Fever Season Look-Ahead: Caitlin Clark's Encore, a Deeper Roster, and Championship Ambitions appeared first on EssentiallySports. Add EssentiallySports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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Fans finally have the answer to why it all happened! Three weeks ago, the Golden State Valkyries drafted Flau’jae Johnson as the No. 8 overall pick, and while everyone felt like it was a perfect fit, the franchise went on to swap her rights with the Seattle Storm for the rights to the No. 16 pick, Marta Suarez, and a 2028 second-round pick. However, when the Valkyries’ GM was asked why? All she had to say was, “I’m going to take a beat to be able to eloquently give a response.” However, that was back then because Ohemaa Nyanin has revealed the behind-the-scenes for this move.

During the Valkyries’ media day, the General Manager pointed her finger at cap flexibility.

“The decision-making around the draft had a lot to do with cap flexibility. We had the opportunity, or we thought we had the opportunity, to potentially sign another athlete,” she said.

As per the new CBA, first-round pick Flau’jae Johnson was all set to receive $309,622 in her first season, which would total up to $1,386,092 over four years. But because of the trade, they saved around $40,000, as Saurez would get only $270,000.

Though after the draft, the Valkyries had close to $750,000 of cap space, they ended up spending the majority of that re-signing Tiffany Hayes. So with the goal to “sign as many as returners as possible,” and long-term flexibility in mind, the Golden State front office went down this path. That mindset also stems from the fact that this franchise has already lost two key players. So reflecting on the expansion draft, Nyanin didn’t hide her disappointment and said, “Expansion draft was pretty sad. We lost two elite athletes in María Conde and Carla Leite.”

Leite had already shown promise as a rotation guard, averaging 7.2 points and 2.0 assists across 37 games, while Conde represented a high-upside international piece the team never got to integrate. So in that light, the push for flexibility starts to look like a front office trying to stay prepared after already taking a hit.

“My job, very specifically, is to make sure that we maintain an understanding of what’s happening today and then what could happen in the future. And so the flexibility, that is needed to be able to withstand whatever could happen in the future,” she further added.

But does that make fans feel any better? Most probably not, because the Valkyries then went on to waive Suarez.

The Player They Wanted… Until They Didn’t

It took a while, but fans were finally coming to terms with a move that didn’t make any sense. Because it felt like it was Marta Suarez that the franchise wanted all along.

“Marta is fierce. She’s fearless,” Nyanin said after the trade. “We have looked at her for a really long time. … She has a very high basketball IQ. Her high character is off the charts. … We felt like she would be a great fit.”

She even played for the Valkyries in the preseason, where she dropped 5 points, 3 rebounds, an assist, and a steal in 14 minutes. But then, three days ago, the Valkyries went on to make another move that has left everyone baffled.

They waived six players in one go, which also included Suárez. Yes, they have waived the very player they traded Flau’jae Johnson for. And alongside her was:

But why? The short answer is – this team is still trying to understand the new CBA.

“There are a lot of things that we need to take into consideration when it comes to the status of an athlete, where it comes to their years of experience, etc. And I think that there’s more to come. There’s a lot more to think through in the next 48 hours,” she added. So from their 2026 draft class, the only player they still hold rights to is Kokoro Tanaka from Japan, whose name isn’t even on the active roster.

However, the good news is – the Valkyries can still keep Marta Suarez even if she doesn’t make the main team right now. Under the new rules, teams are allowed to have two extra “developmental” players apart from the usual 12-player roster. These players can train with the team and even play in up to 12 games during the season. So, even if Suarez isn’t on the main roster, she could still stay with the team and get chances later.

At the same time, while the Valkyries try to make sense of all this mess, Johnson is already carving out her own path with the Storm.

Flau’jae Johnson Turns the Page Quickly in Seattle

If there were any doubts about how Johnson would adjust to her new team, she’s already answering them on the court. In just two preseason outings (ironically, one against the very Golden State Valkyries team that traded her), Johnson has put up a strong early impression. Across games against the Valkyries and the Portland Fire, she dropped a combined 32 points in just 43 minutes, showcasing the scoring ability that once made her look like a perfect fit in Golden State.

So in Seattle, there is nothing but excitement around her potential. “We’re really excited about how she aligns and helps us this year, but also is going to be a really important piece for us as we’re building for the future,” the Storm GM Talisa Rhea admitted.

And it’s easy to see why. Flau’jae Johnson is coming off a strong final season at LSU, where she averaged 14.2 points while shooting nearly 40% from beyond the arc, so she is expected to carry that same rhythm into the pros, and so far she hasn’t disappointed.

With the regular season set to tip off on May 8, the Storm will open against none other than the Valkyries, so Johnson will get a chance to face her former team again. And this time, it won’t just be about proving a point; it’ll be about setting the tone for what can be expected from her and the Storm in the 2026 WNBA season.

The post Valkyries GM Reveals Key Flau’Jae Johnson Trade Factor Amid Expansion Draft Regret Confession appeared first on EssentiallySports. Add EssentiallySports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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The tumultuous offseason is in the rearview now as the confetti prepares for the 30th season of the WNBA. The strategy rooms are busy drawing out maps for the upcoming few months as every team tips off their season with one generic dream that every franchise should have- the coveted WNBA title. Now, basketball is, of course, a team sport, and it can only be won when five players contribute. But is that so simple? Possibly not.

Because we’ve seen over the years that there are certain players who, by themselves, can pull off a team in a single season. Just like a 41-year-old LeBron James is pulling an injury-laden LA Lakers team through the playoffs, there are players who can do the same role for their teams as well when the need arises for them. Without much delay, let’s get to the crux of it and identify the players from each franchise who can decide the team’s fate in the 2026 season.

Las Vegas Aces

First off, let’s talk about the champions- the Aces, who are curating a dynasty of their own in the WNBA. To be honest, there isn’t much to think about in this regard, as most would have already guessed that their season-determining player will be A’ja Wilson, and if anybody has any doubts in this regard, they might be living under a rock in the last few years.

23.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, 2.3 blocks, and 1.6 steals were Wilson’s numbers last year in the regular season that literally carried the Aces from being 12-13 at one point in time in the season to concluding it 30-14. That’s the level of impact a meaningful season for Wilson can have for the Aces. But just like every Batman needs a Robin, Wilson needs support around her as well, and to be exact, she has two in this regard- Chelsea Gray and Jackie Young.

Like Wilson, Gray and Young have been seasoned campaigners for a few years now. They have won three WNBA titles in the last four years, and as they set their sights on a historic fourth, the trio will yet again be their make-or-break players.

New York Liberty

With a star-studded roster, there can’t be a single player who can determine Liberty’s success this season. They did a pretty good job in the free agency, retaining their Big Three with ease. And naturally, the trio will eventually determine the team’s bottom line this season. Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, and Jonquel Jones are all experienced campaigners and even tasted Championship success together in 2024.

All of them scored over 12 points per game last year, with Stewart leading the charts in 18.3. Besides that, name any metric you can from the season, and you’ll find that the Big Three have already established their stamp on it. Another popular opinion in this regard might be Satou Sabally. who, in her own right, can get in the conversation.

Fresh off a stint with the Phoenix Mercury last year, Sabally is buzzing with individual success (16.3 points and 5.9 rebounds last season). Additionally, she isn’t just a regular forward who scores and rebounds; she also possesses impeccable scoring ability (over 41% from the field in her career), like a guard, and if she can sync well with the team’s Big Three, the team will be one to reckon with in the coming season.

Indiana Fever

The first name that anybody can possibly think of for the Fever is Caitlin Clark. Now, many can argue that even without CC, the franchise reached the playoffs last season. Yes, that’s a valid argument. But if you can look at the impact that Clark creates just by being on the court, it doesn’t have a substitute in the Fever team. In most instances, she will be Fever’s ball handler and will, from time to time, launch those three-pointers from the half-court, making her hard to stop when she gets going.

Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston are the other two vital cogs for the Indiana Fever team. Mitchell (20.2 points in 2025 with over 45% from the field), similar to Clark (16.6 points last season) will shoulder the backcourt for the team. On the other hand, Boston will bring that physical presence and dominance on the boards for Fever, giving the team an edge in possessions at times and even bulldozing opponents herself.

Minnesota Lynx

In Lynx, you largely can’t look beyond Napheesa Collier. For most seasons in the last few years, Collier has been the Lynx’s crown jewel. Of course, she is the team’s primary scorer, averaging over 20 points per game with ease this season. But not to forget, she contributes equally with rebounds, leading the team last season with an average of 6.8.

But the major caveat is that Collier will miss the first few Lynx games while recovering from ankle surgery. In her absence, especially and even in stretches of the season, Courtney Williams and Kayla McBride will have to shoulder a bit of responsibility as well, and were allies of Collier last season. Besides these players, their rookie Olivia Miles can also be an interesting prospect to watch out for the Lynx in the upcoming year.

Atlanta Dream

For many years, Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray have been the cornerstones of the Atlanta Dream franchise. Even last season, the duo did most of the heavy lifting in the team’s run to the playoffs, combining for around 36 points per game in the season. For all money, they will yet again be the deciding factors for the team, but the twist is they aren’t alone this year, as the team will have the services of Angel Reese in the frontcourt.

Reese’s trade in the early phases of free agency caused a great stir in the community. It isn’t just because of how her association with the Chicago Sky ended, but also because of how seamlessly Reese would fit into the franchise. Now, it’s well known that the Reese, a two-time WNBA Rebounding leader, brings a strong frontcourt presence, and that’s exactly what the Dream wanted.

With Gray and Howard overlooking the perimeters, and Reese taking care of the boards, the trio can by themselves be the decisive factors of the team.

Dallas Wings

At Dallas, there is a bit of tussling between Paige Bueckers and Arike Ogunbowale. Now, Ogunbowale is, of course, the veteran who has guided the team for years now. And rightly so, a decorated career with Wings, boasting around 19.9 ppg and 4.0 assists in her career, is enough to add weight to her side of the debate. But Bueckers is the new sheriff in Dallas, and her numbers from last year (19.2 ppg) and her WNBA Rookie of the Year-winning season also echo a similar sentiment.

But for the Wings, you can’t even count out players like Aziaha Jame, or defensively standout players like Alanna Smith, or even their No.1 draft pick, Azzi Fudd, because they all, in their own right, have been proven game-winners in the past.

Los Angeles Sparks

For the LA Sparks, their ceiling depends on a single player- Kelsey Plum. Coming off a successful individual run with the team, boasting over 19 points per game, Plum will be the go-to player for the franchise yet again. The Sparks haven’t had a great run in the last few years and have missed playoff runs quite consistently, and Plum will look to change it this season.

On top of Plum, the Sparks will also see the homecoming of Nneka Ogwumike, after serving a stint with the Seattle Storm. Undoubtedly, the veteran duo will be one to reckon with in the coming season. The 35-year-old is coming off a steller season with the Sparks, scoring 18.3 points per game in the regular season. She has also showcased impressive form amid her return to the Sparks, scoring 17 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists in the only preseason game she played against the Portland Fire.

They have lost some veterans in Rickea Jackson and Azura Stevens, diminishing the team’s depth. But Dearica Hamby (18.4 points per game last season) is still on the team and will be an able aide to Plum going into the season.

Seattle Storm

For Storm, their fate in the season depends on the young players. For instance, Dominique Malonga and Ezi Magbegor will be the team’s major trump cards. Malonga and Magbegor are quite experienced and will have to take the reins of the team after the departures of veterans like Nneka Ogwumike and Skylar Diggins-Smith.

They played a majorly supportive role last season, scoring around 7 points each, with Magbegor also leading the team in blocks. But subsequently, their role will be immensely greater this season, where they will have to call the shots on the court at times. Their rookies- Flau’jae Johnson and Awa Fam will also be vital in this regard as well. Johnson has already showcased flashes of what she can do in the preseason games, scoring a team-high 20 points against the Portland Fire.

Connecticut Sun

Brittney Griner might be 35 years old, but she will still be bossing the court for the Sun this season. It’s true that her minutes were limited with the Atlanta Dream last season, but the sheer class she brings has no alternative. And her 16 points in the preseason game against a star-studded NY Liberty team just adds weight to the fact that her scoring prowess hasn’t left her.

In Sun, she might again come alive and score over 15 points per game in the season. With Griner, Aaliyah Edwards, too, will play a part in her own way with her fierce shooting (47.3% career wise) and all-around game on the court.

Chicago Sky

After Angel Reese’s departure, the Chicago Sky were in search of a franchise player they could rely on to deliver. And that search brought them to Skylar Diggins-Smith, a veteran who has proved her mettle time and again, with a career that boasts 16.4 ppg and 5.3 assists. It might be a new start for Diggins-Smith, but for a player like her, it won’t take long to translate her prowess on the court.

Rickea Jackson and Courtney Vandersloot are among the other players whose performances can decide Sky’s fate. But there’s another name as well, who also happens to be their latest free agent signing, Natasha Cloud. Coming off a season with the NY Liberty, Cloud is a dependable backcourt player who averaged over 10 points and 5 assists per game last season, and she can just pick up where she left off with the Sky.

Washington Mystics

Having lost players like Brittney Sykes, the Mystics will rely heavily on Shakira Austin this season. Austin has already solidified her footing as a formidable forward, scoring 12.7 points and 6.4 rebounds last season. Besides that, Austin will be supported majorly by a young core, including Lauren Betts, Angela Dugalic, and Cotie McMahon, who are coming off impressive collegiate seasons.

Phoenix Mercury

DeWanna Bonner and Kahleah Cooper will be the go-to players for the Mercury in the season. Both of them are quite experienced and have proved their mettle time and again. Last season, both scored over 10 points per game, and this season, the team’s offensive output will rest on their shoulders. Alyssa Thomas and Sami Whitcomb will also provide immense depth to their roster and will definitely have a say in their season ceiling.

Golden State Valkyries

ForValkyries, they have a major veteran in Gabby Williams at their disposal, whom they roped in during free agency. Williams, having played for the Seattle Storm for the last four years and for the Chicago Sky for three years prior to that, is immensely experienced and will be a go-to player for the Valkyries this season. Besides that, the team will also have Veronica Burton at its disposal, who led the team in scoring last season, averaging just over 11 points per game. Other players who can make a major impact for the Valkyries in the season include Kaitlyn Chen and Tiffany Hayes.

Toronto Tempo

Being a new team, the Toronto Tempo have an array of talents who will have a say on how their debut season goes. Marina Marina Mabrey and Brittney Sykes both scored over 14 points per game last season and will bring the same sort of form this season as well. Nyara Sabally and Temi Fagbenie will also bring a substantial depth to the roster and will add to Mabrey and Sykes’ veteran presence on the court.

Portland Fire

Bridget Carleton will be one of the major players who will shoulder the responsibility of fire in the season. Having played for the Minnesota Lynx over the last few years, Carleton has vast experience, and, as a result, the Fire’s output will be on one shoulder. Besides Carleton, the Fire will also have the services of Megan Gustafson and Carla Leite in the 2026 season.

The post Key Players That Can Make or Break Each WNBA Team Ahead Of The 2026 Season appeared first on EssentiallySports. Add EssentiallySports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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Veteran defensive lineman Zacch Pickens was never expected to be the Kansas City Chiefs' most important pass-rusher next season, but most pundits thought he would at least get the opportunity to compete for a spot on the team's 53-man roster in training camp.

Instead, Pickens was among the veterans who found themselves on the outside looking in when Kansas City's front office signed three first-year prospects after impressive tryouts at the Chiefs' rookie camp.

Luckily for Pickens, the New York Giants were in need of some help on their defensive line, and moved quickly to claim the former third-round pick shortly after Kansas City elected to waive him.

We have claimed DL Zacch Pickens off waivers

Details: https://t.co/GvwepTJak7pic.twitter.com/T7OBZiGmOx

— New York Giants (@Giants) May 5, 2026

While every team in the NFL could use some help with their defensive lines, Chiefs general manager Brett Veach recently addressed Kansas City's front four by selecting former Clemson Tigers standout Peter Woods and Oklahoma Sooners sack-master R Mason Thomas with the No. 29 and No. 40 selections in the 2026 NFL Draft, respectively.

This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Zacch Pickens: Former Chiefs DL claimed by Giants after rookie camp

MASON, Mich. (WLNS) – The postseason is nearing for high school spring sports across the state of Michigan, and league championships were won on Tuesday.

The CAAC Red track and field meet saw the Williamston boys and Mason girls take first place. For the Bulldogs, this is the 10th straight year they’ve won the CAAC Red.

Check out the highlights in the video above, with the details below.

Haslett’s Christina Dixon won the 200-meter dash with a season-best time of 26.32 seconds. Dixon would then help the Vikings’ 4×400 relay team, with Mya Muhammad, Madison Muhammad and Alexis Turner, take first place with a personal-best 4:13.54.

Lansing Eastern captured first in the boys version of the 4×400 race thanks to Koamir Muhamad, Jontae Rosario, Asa Pumphrey and Zadien Harris running a personal-best 3:34.42.

St. Johns standout runner Ava Schafer won the 3200-meter race with a time of 11:46.28, and Willimatson senior Raymond Herek won it on the boys side with a personal-best 9:55.05.

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — View scores from across KELOLAND down below.

MLB
Minnesota 11 Washington 3 F

NHL
Minnesota 2 Colorado 5 F

HSBB
Washington 10 Tea 5 F
Mitchell 7 Roosevelt 3 F
Jefferson 4 Lincoln 3 F
Sioux Falls Christian 11 Baltic 0 F
Belle Fourche 10 St. Thomas More 5 F
Washington 7 Tea 1 F
Spearfish 11 Sturgis Brown 5 F
O’Gorman 12 Brookings 7 F
Clark Area 2 Groton Area 1 F
Roosevelt 7 Mitchell 5 F
Vermillion 10 Parkston 1 F
Brookings 4 O’Gorman 3 F
Jefferson 3 Harrisburg 2 F

HSSB
McCook Central/Montrose 18 Kingsbury County 1 F
West Central 10 Lincoln 9 F
Sioux Falls Christian 17 Colman-Egan 1 F
Flandreau 14 Clark/Willow Lake 4 F
O’Gorman 17 Brandon Valley 13 F
Lennox 11 Baltic 1 F
Washington 6 Tea 0 F
Jefferson 21 Mitchell 0 F

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

How does a player with a résumé like Tina Charles end up without a team? And the 2026 WNBA season is just three days away. As one of the league’s most decorated veterans and the most accomplished unsigned free agent currently available, concerns within the WNBA community are beginning to grow louder by the day.

American sports broadcaster Cindy Brunson gave voice to that concern in a post she made on X on Monday. “There has to be a roster spot for her, period,” she wrote. And when you lay out what Tina Charles represents, it’s hard to argue with her opinion. As she also pointed out, Charles is not just a former No. 1 draft pick. She’s the all-time leader in WNBA rebounds. She’s also a former league MVP, and a two-time scoring champion, among other achievments. The idea that no team has found room for that kind of player is, as Brunson suggested, genuinely difficult to reconcile.

What makes it even harder to understand is that Tina Charles hasn’t given anyone a reason to walk away based on performance. Her 2025 season with the Connecticut Sun, the team that originally drafted her back in 2010, was anything but the output of a player fading into irrelevance. She led the team with 16.3 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. And she did that while playing in 43 regular season games, starting 42 of them, and missing just one game. She also scored in double figures in 35 of those games and posted 20 or more points on 15 separate occasions. By any reasonable standard, that is a productive, reliable, starting-caliber season.

Yet the Sun chose not to bring her back for 2026. They didn’t issue any formal statement to explain the decision, but the direction the franchise is heading offers some context. The have made significant investment in younger players like Olivia Nelson-Ododa and Aaliyah Edwards. And they have an expanded 18-player roster featuring eight rookies and four second-year players. So, the Connecticut appears to be prioritizing a youth-driven rebuild. At 37 years of age heading into this season, Charles may simply no longer fit the timeline the Sun are building toward, even if she clearly appears to still fit on a basketball court.

Charles herself has stayed quiet on her current situation, making no formal public statement about where things stand. But she made her intentions clear before the 2025 season even concluded. “God willing, I would love to play another year in the WNBA,” she said. Sadly, that wish, as of right now, remains unfulfilled.

But with three days until the season tips off, the window is narrow but not yet closed. Who knows, anything can happen in three days. Hopefully something does and one of the greatest players in WNBA history, wouldn’t have to bow out because she was no longer wanted.

WNBA Fans Show Concern as Former No. 1 Pick Tina Charles Remains Unsigned Ahead of 2026 Season

The silence around Tina Charles is getting louder. Her continued unsigned status heading into the 2026 WNBA season has sparked growing concern across the basketball community, particularly given the level of production she delivered just last season. But as one fan cut straight to the heart of the matter, “Her resume is not why she gets a spot. She’s 37.” The same fan, however, was quick to add that they still “think she can still play.”

That age narrative keeps surfacing as the primary explanation, even among those who genuinely believe Charles still has something to offer on the court. “She’s going on 38. It is what it is,” one fan said. “Time comes for us all,” added another. Yet even a fan who wasn’t entirely convinced she had much fuel left in the tank still saw value in having her around. “She’s 37… not sure how much she still has left, but I’d love her on the Sky to mentor Kamilla Cardoso,” they said.

Some fans, though, haven’t given up on the idea of Charles landing somewhere before the season gets underway. “Cloud finally got picked up,” one fan noted pointedly. “Hopefully she will too. One of the last bigs who can go outside as well… .” It’s a fair parallel to draw. Natasha Cloud is a ten-year veteran who eventually found a home with the Chicago Sky despite her own prolonged free agency. The key difference, of course, is that Cloud is 34, and Charles is 37. Three years may not sound like much. However, in the context of professional sports at the late stage of a career, it can be a meaningful gap.

But hopefully Charles’ story ends the same way Cloud’s did. However, for now, the question is: is it really time for Tina Charles to call it a career? Or does last season’s performance suggest that there is still more chapter left to write? But maybe with everything she has accomplished, she deserves the chance to answer that question on her own terms.

The post Concerns Grow Within The WNBA Community After Former No.1 Draft Pick Remains Unsigned Before 2026 Season appeared first on EssentiallySports. Add EssentiallySports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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TOLONO, Ill. (WCIA) — Unity baseball is off to a 19-3 start after making runs to state in boys basketball and football.

The Rockets are looking for redemption after a close loss to Monticello in the sectional championship game last season.

A notable part of thjs season’s success includes head coach Tom Kimball surpassing the 400-win milestone.

He credits many people for the program’s recent success, including community members, administrators and talented players.

While winning was the biggest goal early in his career, that isn’t the case anymore.

“As I’ve grown older and grown into this little bit, I realize that winning is important and we all love to win, but in reality, the relationships that you build and if you can help kids better themselves and be a better part in society, at the end of the day, that’s kind of what coaching is about,” Kimball said.

“Seeing him in school, it just builds an even better relationship with him,” senior Coleton Langendorf said. “He’s always joking with us when he sees us, and we’re just always having a good time with him.”

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

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) — New University of Evansville women’s basketball head coach, Ben Wierzba has signed his second player in Louisiana transfer Marina Artero.

The 5’11 junior forward from Spain appeared in all 31 games this past season for the Ragin Cajuns. Artero made 19 starts while averaging about 1.8 points and 4.2 rebounds per game at Louisiana.

She started her collegiate career at Saint Francis University in Pennsylvania and now will become an important piece of Wierzba’s first roster.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW).

The Dallas Cowboys have rebuilt much of their defense during the 2026 offseason, but it’s not quite done. Christian Parker could use a designated edge-rush veteran to beef up the pass rush, and one of the top options just signed somewhere else.

Pass rusher Dante Fowler agreed to a one-year deal with the Seattle Seahawks worth up to $5 million, giving the Cowboys one fewer player to help get after the quarterback. Fowler had two stints in Dallas, including last year, where he had three sacks and 10 QB hits. 

Dante Fowler Jr. is signing with the Seahawks on a one-year deal worth up to $5 million. (via @TomPelissero) pic.twitter.com/ymE12jx48a

— NFL (@NFL) May 5, 2026

That production came off the heels of a 10.5 sack campaign under Dan Quinn while playing with the Washington Commanders in 2024. Fowler was the highest priced free agent signed by the Cowboys during the 2025 offseason, but he couldn’t replicate the pressure under new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus.

Fowler’s a journeyman who’s made over $74 million across his career, playing for five teams since being the third overall pick in the 2015 draft. He's totaled 58.5 career sacks. The 31-year-old pass rusher has two double-digit sacks seasons on his ledger and had 13 sacks combined during his three years in Dallas.

He’s had an up and down career, but Fowler was a decent option as one of the best remaining designated pass rushers still on the market. Instead of coming back to the Cowboys for a fourth season, Fowler now heads to Seattle to reunite with his former line coach and current Seahawks DC Aden Durde, along with former Dallas defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence.

The remaining veteran edge rush options now include Joey Bosa, Cameron Jordan, Haason Reddick, and Von Miller, along with last year’s sack leader in Jadeveon Clowney.

It’s worth noting the Cowboys and Parker could be content with the younger pass rushers they’ve already got in-house. The 2026 offseason and the draft did bring some new talent, so there isn’t reason to panic. 

However, if the Cowboys did want a veteran designated edge presence, there’s one fewer option.

This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: DE Dante Fowler leaves Cowboys fold to join world-champion Seahawks

The Los Angeles Lakers entered Game 1 of their Western Conference semifinal series against the Oklahoma City Thunder without Luka Doncic, who is still out with a Grade 2 hamstring strain. There is still no firm timetable for Doncic's return, and with each passing day, it looks more likely that he will not return at all during this postseason.

Los Angeles already had an anemic bench when healthy this season, and now their second unit could be even thinner. Forward Jarred Vanderbilt, who can be a spark plug for them off the bench as an energy player, suffered a finger injury during the second quarter while trying to block a dunk by Isaiah Hartenstein. He exited the game and never returned, as the Lakers lost 108-90.

Per Shams Charania of ESPN, Vanderbilt has sustained a full dislocation of his right pinky finger.

Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt has sustained a full dislocation of his right pinky finger in a gruesome injury tonight, sources tell ESPN.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) May 6, 2026

If Vanderbilt isn't able to play, coach JJ Redick may have to go to little-used big man Maxi Kleber or even rookie Adou Thiero for at least spot duty. Thiero has mostly only played sparingly during garbage time throughout this season, and Kleber, who averaged 10.7 minutes a game during the regular season, played a total of seven minutes in the first round of the playoffs against the Houston Rockets. All seven of those minutes came in Game 4, which was a 115-96 blowout loss.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Shams Charania gives update on Jarred Vanderbilt's finger injury

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett is coming off a career year statistically and, after Kyler Murray was released, was seen as the likely starting quarterback for 2026, even with the addition of free agency of Gardner Minshew and, more recently, the addition of Carson Beck in the third round of the draft.

However, Brissett is currently not happy with his contract. He is scheduled to make nearly $4.9 million in salary and up to $510,000 in per-game roster bonuses. That is solid backup quarterback money, but it isn't anywhere near what even a low-end starting quarterback gets.

Initial reports of Brissett's desires say that he wants a multi-year deal that pays him like a starter. He has decided to stay away from the voluntary offseason program.

However, Brissett might not have the leverage he thinks he has.

Yes, he set career-highs in passing yards and passing touchdowns. Yes, Michael Wilson and Trey McBride had career years thanks to Brissett. However, the Cardinals went 1-11 when he started and 0-9 after the starting job was given to him, and the offense averaged only 18.7 points over the final nine games, so there were yards but there weren't points.

The Cardinals then signed Minshew, who has 47 career starts and drafted Beck, who started 43 games in college. Minshew and Brissett are probably equal in skill and caliber of starter.

And now the Cardinals have a new head coach and offensive system. Minshew has been getting reps. Brissett is not. Brissett has not worked in this system, so it isn't as if he already knows the offense.

Now, the Cardinals reportedly are open to accommodating Brissett, whatever that means, and general manager Monti Ossenfort said during the draft, with regards to Brissett and his contract, "things are in a good spot."

We at Cards Wire are very much pro-player when it comes to trying to get paid more. If a player thinks he can, by all means, handle business.

The problem is that Brissett doesn't seem to have any leverage. The Cardinals' hopes are lost without him. One could say that they had little hope even with him. After all, he went 1-11 last year, he is 2-15 in his last 17 starts in 2024-2025 and is 20-45 as a starter in his career.

The Cardinals got the best version of Brissett in 2025 and still weren't competitive. Is it reasonable to expect him to play at that same level?

And how much worse off would the Cardinals be with Minshew starting?

If Brissett can secure a little more security, good for him, but the situation right now doesn't seem to be in his favor.

The Cardinals are a team without a legitimate starting quarterback without real hopes of being competitive. Brissett doesn't likely have the value he thinks he has or deserves, and that is the sad reality.

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

This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: Jacoby Brissett doesn't have leverage he hopes he has for new deal

Even as James Harden continues to climb the ranks of postseason longevity, his historic flaws remain stubbornly attached to his playoff resume. Following the Cleveland Cavaliers’ 111-101 road loss to the Detroit Pistons in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, the focus shifted from the final score to The Beard’s staggering career trend. And it came under the radar through Harden’s notorious critic, Nick Wright.

Tonight marked the 181st playoff game of James Harden’s career spanning 17 seasons and counting. Remarkably, it also marked the 45th time in his postseason history that he has registered as many or more turnovers than made field goals. Harden had 22 points, shooting 6-of-15 from the field, 1-of-7 from the arc, and 9-of-9 from the charity stripe. But of the Cavs’ 10 turnovers, seven came from Harden.

According to Wright, this frustrating metric has now defined nearly exactly 25% of Harden’s career playoff appearances. In one out of every four playoff games he has ever played, his sloppy ball-handling and poor decision-making have directly negated or eclipsed his offensive execution.

It’s a rough blow to what was billed as his fresh startto rewrite his postseason narrative. He demanded a trade from Clippers to Cavaliers in pursuit of a championship and the Cavs banked on his postseason experience to get over the hump. Instead, it became a showcase for the exact same flaws that have plagued the former MVP throughout his career.

James Harden admitted his turnovers cost the Cavaliers

Despite a furious fourth-quarter rally that saw Cleveland erase an 18-point deficit to tie the game at 93, the Cavaliers ultimately faltered down the stretch, dropping Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals 111-101 to the top-seeded Pistons. They had to play the final quarter without Donovan Mitchell because of a nagging groin strain and the impact was felt.

WhileSpida redeemed himself by leading Cleveland with 23 points, Harden carried the playmaking load, scoring, passing lanes, and creating advantages. But his ball security issues came up again.

It’s not that Nick Wright is dismissive of Harden again. He admitted his problems tonight were on him and not on the Pistons’ defensive pressure too. “You look at my turnovers and a lot of them were just on me and nothing they did,” Harden said after the game.

Ironically, tonight put both Harden and the Pistons’ Cade Cunningham in an unenviable all-time club – players who had 40+ turnovers in the first eight games of a postseason. James has 43 and Cade has 45 in 2026. But Harden takes up three more spots in the top 10 – 41 in 2019, and 40 each in 2015 and 2017.

Harden is currently averaging 20.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, 6.1 assists, 2.1 steals, and 0.6 blocks in 37.0 minutes this postseason. His shooting efficiency remains consistent too. But his turnover rate is a costly 5.1. His assist-to-turnover ratio remains a big gap for someone running the offense.

Wright has now put a magnifying glass on Harden’s ability to handle playoff pressure. With Game 2 scheduled for Thursday night in Detroit, the Cavs must find a way to stabilize their guard play before the top-seeded Pistons run away with the series.

The post James Harden’s Playoff Flaw Exposed as Cavs Fall to Pistons After Failed Comeback appeared first on EssentiallySports. Add EssentiallySports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD/WYZZ) — Morton took a step closer to a Mid-Illini Conference girls soccer title with an impressive road win Tuesday.

The Potters got first half goals from Addy Blake, Clarie Ceresa and Lily Klopfenstein on the way to a 4-0 win at Dunlap. Morton (16-1-1, 6-0) stays alone in first place with the win a half-game ahead of Washington, which beat Canton.

Dunlap (7-4-6, 4-1-1) suffered its first loss in the conference and slips behind Washington (11-2-3, 5-0-1) in the league race.

Elsewhere, Metamora won five of seven singles matches in its boys tennis showdown with Dunlap. The Redbirds beat the Eagles, 7-2, in a match-up of two of the top teams in the state.

Normal West, Dunlap, Washington, and Metamora won softball games. Host Central Catholic finish second to Tolono Unity in both boys and girls track in the Illini Prairie Conference meet on Tuesday.

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

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) — The University of Evansville men’s basketball team has added another player to their 2026-27 roster from the transfer portal in Makuei Riek.

The 6’6 guard from Rochester, Minnesota played in 20 games for Salt Lake Community College last year as a redshirt sophomore. During his time on the floor, Riek averaged about 13.5 points and 4.5 rebound per game while shooting above 40 percent from behind the three point line and from the field.

UE is his fourth collegiate stop including a season at Milwaukee and Fairfield. Riek is the fifth addition from the portal for the Purple Aces this offseason.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW).

At the Davis Cup Final last year, Pablo Carreno Busta simmered with visible frustration as the partisan Italian crowd disrupted his rhythm, cheering mid-rally for Matteo Berrettini and celebrating points before they were won. The tension boiled over as Busta struck the umpire’s chair, echoing what commentators described as “understandably unhappy”. One year on at the Italian Open, history repeats itself, with Barbora Krejcikova erupting as hecklers defy warnings, turning the arena into a battleground.

During the second set of her match against Elsa Jacquemot, Barbora Krejcikova’s frustration became increasingly visible as the atmosphere turned hostile around her. At 3-3 (30-15) on her serve, constant heckling from the crowd disrupted her rhythm and concentration, making it difficult to maintain focus in a crucial moment.

Unable to ignore the repeated interruptions, she approached the chair umpire and voiced her concern, saying, “it seems like it’s a different person every time”. The umpire attempted to control the situation and stop the interruptions, but the efforts proved ineffective as the noise continued to persist from different sections.

At nearly every Krejcikova service game, someone in the crowd began whistling, creating a pattern of disruption that steadily escalated throughout the set. The referee repeatedly tried to hush the crowd using warnings and appeals for silence, yet nothing worked as the disturbances continued without consequence.

After winning a game at 30-30, Krejcikova reached her breaking point and turned toward the stands, telling them to “Shut up”. It was a raw moment of emotion, reflecting how deeply the repeated disruptions had affected her ability to compete under normal conditions.

Beyond the noise and tension, this match marked her return to tour action since the Dubai Tennis Championships in February, following a left thigh injury. Despite the difficult environment, the former French Open champion secured a 6-2, 6-4 victory over Jacquemot in a match that lasted 1 hour and 45 minutes.

She showed resilience under pressure by saving nine of 10 break points on her serve and converting four of nine opportunities on Jacquemot’s serve.

Her reward is a second-round clash against world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, who leads their H2H 6-1, including 1-0 on clay, with this being their first meeting since the 2024 Australian Open.

However, beyond the result, the larger issue of crowd behavior in Italy continues to cast a shadow over matches and player experiences. At the Naples Cup 2022, a group of fans booed and disrupted play when Lorenzo Sonego was losing to Sebastian Baez.

The situation became so heated that fans online remarked, “This is football fans who go to watch tennis cause it makes them feel cool.” Similar incidents have unfolded beyond Italy as well, showing that crowd interference is not confined to one region or tournament.

Last month at the Gran Prix Open Comunidad de Madrid Challenge, chaos erupted during the match between Toby Samuel and Joel Josef Schwärzler. The situation escalated to the point where referees were forced to step down from their positions and intervene directly with members of the crowd.

Officials remained on high alert, closely monitoring the situation and attempting to identify those responsible for the disruptions. Despite their intervention, the atmosphere became increasingly chaotic and difficult to manage as tensions continued to rise.

Returning to Italy, the pattern of crowd interruptions remains deeply concerning as repeated incidents continue to disrupt matches and affect players.

Umpire intervenes to stop clash during bizarre Rome Challenger match

At a Challenger event in Rome last month, Bosnian pro Nerman Fatic found himself at the center of a tense and unusual moment while facing Tseng Chun-hsin. The match had settled into a tight rhythm, with the first set locked at 3-3 as both players searched for an edge and tried to control the tempo.

Then came a turning point that had little to do with skill and everything to do with fortune, shifting the mood of the contest instantly. Chun-hsin attempted a delicate drop shot, but the ball clipped the net before dropping softly on Fatic’s side, completely altering its trajectory.

The deflection killed the pace entirely, and the ball bounced twice before Fatic could even react or prepare a return, leaving him helpless in the point. A loud roar erupted from sections of the sparse crowd positioned along the court, amplifying the moment and adding an unexpected layer of tension.

At the same time, Fatic reacted instinctively, launching the ball high into the air with his racket in visible frustration as emotions began to take over. It did not appear that the crowd was mocking Chun-hsin’s lucky bounce, but Fatic clearly interpreted the noise differently and took it personally.

The Bosnian turned sharply toward the stands and began walking in their direction, his irritation now fully visible as the situation escalated. Sensing the danger, the umpire quickly intervened, shouting “calma” into the microphone before jumping down from his chair to prevent further escalation.

Fatic seemed particularly agitated with one specific spectator, and the two exchanged heated words as tensions peaked in a rare courtside confrontation. The confrontation lasted around 30 seconds before officials stepped in and guided Fatic back to his position so that play could resume.

Now, as crowd interruption goes beyond the Challenger circuit to elite tournaments like the Italian Open, the issue is no longer isolated. The game of tennis, which demands silence and concentration during points, is being increasingly challenged by such incidents.

The post WTA Pro Lashes Out at Italian Crowd as Hecklers Turn Down Umpire’s Warning appeared first on EssentiallySports. Add EssentiallySports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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Justin Martinez: Final: Thunder 108, Lakers 90 Chet Holmgren: 24 points, 12 rebounds and 3 blocks Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: 18 points and 6 assists Ajay Mitchell: 18 points and 4 assists OKC claims a 1-0 lead in the series. Game 2 is at 8:30 p.m. CT Thursday.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: OKC takes Game 1 against Lakers

Dave McMenamin: The Lakers lose Game 1, 108-90, after being outscored 39-25 in the last quarter and a half. LeBron 27 pts 6 ast; Rui 18 pts; Smart 12 pts on 4-of-15 shooting 7 ast 4 stl; Ayton 10 pts 11 reb; Reaves 8 pts on 3-of-16 4 ast. OKC bench outscored LAL reserves 34-15.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Lakers lose Game 1, 108-90, after being outscored …

StatMuse: Shai in Game 1: 18 PTS 6 AST 2 BLK His first game with fewer than 20 points since last playoffs.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: His first game with fewer than 20 points since last …

Shams Charania: Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt has sustained a full dislocation of his right pinky finger in a gruesome injury tonight, sources tell ESPN.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Jarred Vanderbilt suffered full dislocation of pinky

The state tennis tournaments open on Wednesday as the individual singles and doubles brackets are contested for the next two days.

Ketan Garg of La Cueva, the defending state champion, is the top seed in Class 5A boys singles, and his first match, as with all the players, is Wednesday afternoon at 1:30.

Two rounds of singles will be held on Wednesday, with the semifinals (10:30 a.m.) and championship match (2 p.m.) both on Thursday at the Jerry Cline courts at I-40 and Louisiana.

The 5A girls also are exclusively at Jerry Cline.

Savannah Reiman of Organ Mountain, last year’s champion, is the No. 1 seed in the 16-girl bracket.

Adrian Hanna of Albuquerque Academy is the top seed in the boys Class 4A division; that bracket opens with two rounds at Academy on Wednesday, then shifts to Jerry Cline for the remaining two rounds on Thursday.

Sadye Bruce of the Chargers is the favorite in 4A girls singles and is the No. 1 seed. As with the boys, they are at Academy on Wednesday, followed by the semis and title match on Thursday at Jerry Cline.

Academy’s stunning boys tennis dynasty has won 22 consecutive state championships. The Chargers embark on their quest for No. 23 on Friday when the Class 1A-4A team competition begins. Academy is the No. 1 seed, Belen No. 2.

Academy’s girls, who are working on six straight titles, also are seeded No. 1 this week.

Centennial’s boys have the top seed in Class 5A, with La Cueva, the defending state champion and — like Academy’s girls, chasing a seventh straight blue trophy — seeded second.

Farmington and Sandia are the top two seeds in 5A girls.

The first two rounds in the team tournament are Friday. Championship matches are scheduled Saturday at 3 p.m. for 1A-4A, and 4:30 p.m. for the two 5A finals. All the finals (and the semifinals) are being played at the Jerry Cline complex.

BASEBALL/SOFTBALL: The state baseball and softball tournaments get underway on Wednesday with action in the smaller classes.

In baseball, Classes 2A and 1A are having first-round games Wednesday; Oak Grove Classical Academy of Albuquerque, the 11 seed in 2A, visits No. 6 Estancia at 3 p.m. There are four first-round games Wednesday, with the top four seeds all having byes until the quarterfinals in Albuquerque on May 14.

Class 1A baseball is just a six-team field; there are two opening round games Wednesday, and the bracket will resume May 14.

The 3A and 1A-2A softball tournaments also get started Wednesday. Sandia Prep plays Hatch Valley in a game in a 3A first rounder in Bayard at 4 p.m., with the winner to face No. 4 Cobre at 6 p.m.

First-round games in 1A-2A are Wednesday and Thursday.

STATE TRACK AND FIELD, PART I: The big-school meet arrives next weekend. The smaller schools (1A-3A) have their state meet first, on Friday and Saturday at the University of New Mexico Track and Field Complex.

About half of the field event finals will be held on Friday, with the first of them scheduled at 8 a.m. and the last one set for 3:30 p.m. The running program starts at 8:30 a.m. Friday, with all of the 800-meter finals in girls and boys.

Friday also will feature the 3,200-meter finals in both genders for all three classes.

Saturday’s action mirrors Friday, with field events going on throughout the day, from 8-3:30, and the running action beginning at 8:30 a.m.

St. Michael’s boys have won six straight titles in 3A, of course not including the 2020 calendar year when the pandemic wiped out all of the spring state championships. Logan’s boys in 1A are pursuing a fourth consecutive crown.

The St. Mike’s girls can win state for the sixth straight year if they win it all again this week.

James Yodice covers prep sports for the Journal. You can reach him at jyodice@abqjournal.com or via X at @JamesDYodice.

Wednesday

When: 6:55 p.m.

Where: Isotopes Park, 1601 Avenida Cesar Chavez

TV/radio: New Mexico 50/FM-101.7

Records: El Paso Locomotive (4-2-1), New Mexico United (2-3)

The series: United leads 7-6-7.

After another off week, and for the second time in a month, New Mexico United is back in USL Championship play.

Here are some things to note:

Free kicks

1. ALL ABOARD? United’s recent matches against El Paso Locomotive haven’t exactly been kind to United.

El Paso hasn’t lost to New Mexico since March 22, 2025. Sure, there have only been three matches between the rivals since then, but Locomotive has won two of those in decisive fashion.

El Paso came away with a 3-0 victory on May 3, 2025. It also topped United 4-0 in the second round of this year’s U.S. Open Cup on April 1 at UNM’s Track and Soccer Complex — tied for United’s worst home loss. Alvaro Quezada, Alex Méndez, Rubio Rubín and Eric Cavillo scored for Locomotive. The last three came in the second half.

In between the two? A 2-2 draw (officially) in the third round of last year’s U.S. Open Cup. El Paso, however, advanced to the tournament quarterfinals 4-1 on penalty kicks … because someone had to.

2. ABOUT TIME: Between the U.S. Open Cup, the USL Cup — which began April 25 — and multiple bye weeks, United hasn’t gotten many opportunities to actually compete in a match that counts towards the USL Championship standings.

Wednesday’s matchup against El Paso will be just the second league contest for New Mexico in the last month. The other was a match at Phoenix Rising FC on April 11. United lost 3-0 that day.

But there is some good news for fans. New Mexico has another home match on Saturday against Las Vegas Lights FC. Nothing like a two-for-one weekly special.

3. THAT’S THE GOAL: It certainly doesn’t hurt to put the ball in the back of the net and Locomotive has been the best in the USL at doing so. El Paso leads the league in goals (17) and conversion rate on its shots (25%) despite tying for 12th in shots overall (90).

It helps having two of the league’s top scorers on the roster. Rubín’s five goals are tied for third, one behind Colorado Springs’ Khori Bennett and Phoenix’s Ihsan Sacko. El Paso’s Amando Moreno is tied for eighth with four. Locomotive also has Méndez, who has three goals.

United, meanwhile, has scored just five times in league play. That’s tied for 23rd with Sporting Jax. NMU is last in shot attempts (56) and tied for 18th in conversion rate (12%).

4. WHERE TO STAND? Since United is getting back into USL Championship play, it never hurts to have a standings refresher.

New Mexico is currently 10th in Western Conference, ahead of Lexington SC and Monterey Bay FC. United and Lexington both have six points, but New Mexico has one more win. Monterey Bay has two points.

El Paso is third in the West with 13 points, behind San Antonio FC (16) and Orange County SC (15). San Antonio and Orange County have also played two more matches than Locomotive.

Key matchup

United keeper Kris Shakes vs. Locomotive forward Rubio Rubín

Seems like the right choice, especially if Shakes is the man in goal for New Mexico. Raiko Arozarena was United’s starting keeper for this year’s U.S. Open Cup match between the clubs. But Shakes could do with a boosted performance in league play. In five USL matches, he’s conceded eight goals. He’s also faced 28 shots. Rubín, a former U.S. men’s national team player and current Guatemala member, will likely be Shakes’ main opposition. He’s scored his five goals on 15 shots.

Player of the week

United forward Justin Rennicks

The former New England Revolution player delivered as a substitute for United with the go-ahead goal in the second half of the club’s 2-1 USL Cup win over AV Alta FC on April 25. Whether such dramatics are required again remains to be seen, but at least United has a player on the bench who can possibly deliver if asked.

By the numbers

3-0-0: El Paso’s record in USL away matches this season. Locomotive is 1-2-1 at home.

1: The number of home matches United has had in league play. New Mexico beat Colorado Springs 3-2 on March 28.

8: The number of Locomotive players who have recorded at least one goal. Seven have notched at least one assist.

15: The number of yellow cards United has received in five USL matches. El Paso has been awarded 20 and received two red cards.

David Glovach covers New Mexico United and other sports for the Journal. Reach him at dglovach@abqjournal.com or via X @DavidGlovach.

More New Mexico United reading

*

NM United's David Estrada still gets to showcase his skills

A look inside at when the assistant and former pro hops into training sessions against first team

*

Rennicks helps NM United celebrate USL Cup opener

Forward credits teammate for helping pick best way to enjoy go-ahead goal

*

Match day: AV Alta FC at NM United

Taking a look at United’s first USL Cup matchup of the season

*

NM United utilized part of bye to reset and get away from soccer

Players spent time doing variety of different activities during break

*

In his second stint, NM United is seeing 'a different Nava'

Albuquerque native Cristian Nava says he's finding joy in soccer again after early career woes

*

NM United's Blackett wants to prove he has 'more to offer'

After injuries, former Manchester United defender seeks to kickstart career

*

Lobos, United partnering for spring fiesta

Fans will get chance to experience some football and futbol

*

Inconsistency dooms United in loss at Phoenix

New Mexico's momentum stalls in 3-0 defeat

*

United braces for fiery derby at winless Phoenix

New Mexico looks to build on last Saturday's win at Orange County

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United seeks payback in Open Cup match against Locomotive FC

El Paso eliminated New Mexico in penalty shots last season

Only one team had ever closed the Mountain West Championship with a better final round than the one New Mexico men’s golf put up Tuesday.

It somehow wasn’t enough.

Behind a blistering final-round 20-under-par 268, UNM surged from fifth place to a tie for first with UNLV at 39 under par at the end of regulation, but lost the Mountain West title in a playoff against the Rebels.

Playing at the par-72, 7,194-yard Omni Tucson National Resort in Tucson, Arizona, the 21st-ranked Lobos came back from eight strokes down by carding a final round score second to only San Diego State’s conference record 28-under 260 in 2023.

In doing so, UNM also matched UNLV’s 54-hole total of 825, the third-best three-round score in conference history.

The Rebels beat the Lobos on a one-hole playoff contested at Omni’s par-4 18th. UNM has played in all but one of the conference championship’s five team playoffs, including the last three, in 2021, 2024 and on Tuesday.

“I am really proud of how the guys competed today,” UNM head coach Jake Harrington said in a release. “To shoot 20-under par, that took a lot from everyone … to get it to a playoff is impressive.

“It proves what we always say, that we are truly six deep and anyone on this team can lead us in any round.”

Wyatt Provence’s 7-under 65 represented the Lobos’ low round of the day while Johnnie Clark carded a 6-under 66. Thayer Plewe and Emil Albers finished in the red with a 5-under 68 and a 2-under 70; Clark Sonnenberg closed the tournament with an even-par 72.

Clark finished as the Lobos’ top player on the individual leaderboard, tying for fourth place at 12 under. Provence and Plewe tied for eighth place at 9 under, Albers was at 8 under (12th place) and Sonnenberg even par (39th place).

UNLV’s Zach Little finished at 17 under to win the league’s individual championship.

The Lobos played all three rounds without Mesa Falleur, their highest-ranked golfer. A team spokesperson said Falleur was held out with an injury; it is unclear what the injury is.

The NCAA Division I Men’s Golf Selection Show is scheduled for Wednesday at 2 p.m. As the 21st overall team in the NCAA rankings, the Lobos are almost assured an at-large bid to the 81-team tournament.

Sean Reider covers college football and other sports for the Journal. You can reach him at sreider@abqjournal.com or via X at @lenaweereider.

Mountain West Championship: Men's golf

1. UNLV* (-39 – 279-270-276)

2. UNM (-39 – 282-275-268)

3. San Diego State (-35 – 273-281-275)

4. Grand Canyon (-31 – 278-272-283)

5. Wyoming (-30 – 275-280-279)

6. San Jose State (-28 – 277-281-278)

7. Nevada (-25 – 280-285-274)

8. Colorado State (-22 – 283-280-279)

9. Fresno State (-12 – 286-277-289)

10. Boise State (-6 – 287-288-283)

11. Utah State (+3 – 300-283-284)

12. Air Force (+18 – 294-290-298)

*won playoff

Jaden Meadows possesses one of the most incredible resumes of any athlete since New Mexico made girls wrestling an official sport, and now the Sandia High School senior knows her future destination.

Meadows has signed with Adams State in Colorado.

She was a four-time state champion for the Matadors. She was undefeated (36-0) this last season, and captured the 170-pound title in February.

Meadows was undefeated in three of her four seasons at Sandia, and lost only a single match as a junior.

SIGNINGS: Cleveland will be officially signing some of its athletes for the next level on Thursday.

This list includes a pair of multiple state wrestling champions: five-timer Roman Luttrell (Utah Valley), plus girls wrestler Eloise Woolsey (Colorado Mesa), a two-time champ.

The others: Karson Weddle (Midland University; basketball), Anneliese Prosch (Otero JC in Colorado; soccer), Angeline Montoya (New Mexico State; soccer), Miya Branaugh (Casper College in Wyoming; volleyball), Heaven Guevara (Iowa Western; wrestling), Erin Winters (Hartnell College in California; basketball).

CHANGE AT ST. PIUS: After seven seasons, Brio Rode is out as the girls basketball coach at St. Pius.

The school informed her in a very recent meeting that it was going to make a change at the position, Rode told the Journal last week. She said she was unsure of the school’s reason for ending their relationship with her.

Rode had an outstanding few seasons with the Sartans, leading them into the Class 4A state championship game just two years ago, where St. Pius was downed by Kirtland Central. And they reached the semifinals the season before that, in the 2022-23 season. The Sartans fell in the first round of this year’s 4A playoffs.

St. Pius already is advertising for applicants for the opening.

THIS AND THAT: Jeaney Garcia has retired as the Bosque School athletic director. The school is also currently searching for a new boys basketball coach. Garcia served as the Bobcats’ AD for the last six years. She has been an athletic director for about 30 years. … Joseph Lopez has resigned as Rio Grande’s girls basketball coach and the Ravens are now searching for a new coach. … At Tuesday’s District 2-5A golf championships Dominick Howland of Santa Fe High aced the 11th hole at Marty Sanchez Links de Sant Fe Golf Course.

James Yodice covers prep sports for the Journal. You can reach him at jyodice@abqjournal.com or via X at @JamesDYodice.

MW Softball Tournament

WHAT: Round 1 is single-elimination

WHO: No. 4 New Mexico vs. No. 5 Fresno State

WHEN: Wednesday 4 p.m. MT

WHERE: Reno, Nevada

WATCH: Online stream at TheMW.com

The first postseason appearance in 20 years for the UNM Lobo softball team starts at 4 p.m. Mountain Time (3 p.m. local start time in Reno, Nevada) on Wednesday against the Fresno State Bulldogs.

The No. 4 seed Lobos (26-25, 13-12 Mountain West) play No. 5 Fresno State (23-23, 12-13 MW) in the single-elimination first round of the MW Softball Championship at the Christina M Hixson Softball Park in a game that will be streamed on TheMW.com.

See you in Reno for the Credit Union 1 MW Softball Championship pic.twitter.com/FezxlLQUYz

— Mountain West (@MountainWest) May 2, 2026

The winner of the game, and of the 7 p.m. MT game between No. 3 Nevada and No. 6 Colorado State, advance to Thursday's double-elimination bracket.

No. 1 Grand Canyon awaits the UNM/Fresno State winner and No. 2 UNLV awaits the winner of the Nevada/Colorado State game.

UNM took two of three from Fresno State this season and the Lobos have won seven of nine overall heading into the conference tournament, the first for the program since 2006.

Final 2026 Mountain West Softball standings pic.twitter.com/TuHk8htfe4

— Geoff Grammer (@GeoffGrammer) May 3, 2026

Reach Geoff Grammer at ggrammer@abqjournal.com or follow him on Twitter (X) @GeoffGrammer.

Luka Doncic is still building towards a return, but it won't come in time for the start of the Western Conference semifinals.

The Los Angeles Lakers will be without Doncic for the start of their second-round playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday, ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania reported on "Inside the NBA."

Charania reports the Lakers are evaluating Doncic on a week-to-week basis, and he is currently on a "slow path" in his recovery from a Grade 2 hamstring strain that has kept him sidelined for the past month.

"He's doing more and more on the court," Charania reported. "But right now, still not full-fledged running or full-contact workouts."

Did Luka Doncic play Tuesday night vs. Thunder?

No, he was out for Game 1.

When is Luka Doncic returning?

The timeline for his return is also still unclear, according to ESPN.

Doncic was seen putting shots up during Lakers practice on Monday, May 4, but he has yet to progress to 3-on-3 or 5-on-5 drills. Lakers head coach JJ Redick had no update for reporters.

Doncic has missed 11 games since straining his left hamstring against Oklahoma City on April 2. The Lakers have gone 7-4 in that span and ran out to a 3-0 lead in the first round of the playoffs against the Houston Rockets before winning the series in six games.

Luka Doncic, getting up shots Monday. When asked about his availability for Game 1, JJ Redick said, “no update.” pic.twitter.com/UZBw9x2E9R

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) May 4, 2026

The odds are stacked against Los Angeles yet again with a matchup against the defending NBA champion Thunder, who won a league-best 64 games in the regular season. The absence of Jalen Williams makes things slightly less lopsided, especially if the Lakers keep producing total team efforts with contributions from Marcus Smart, Luke Kennard, Deandre Ayton and Rui Hachimura.

Make no mistake, though: Doncic, who led the league in scoring with 33.5 points per game and finished third in assists with 8.3 per game, will be needed this series, as evidenced by the result of Game 1.

It just remains to be seen when – or if – he'll be back in time.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: When will Luka Doncic return? Status for Lakers vs. Thunder series

Shohei Ohtani is no longer unsullied by the longball this season. Yet he was still pretty outstanding against the Houston Astros.

Ohtani absorbed his second loss of the season − and gave up his first and second home runs this year − as the Astros held off the Los Angeles Dodgers 2-1 on Tuesday, May 5 at Houston's Daikin Park.

It's Ohtani, so that also means even in defeat, superlatives are involved. And Ohtani worked a season-high seven innings − his longest outing since July 27, 2023, when he pitched a one-hitter − and took over the major league ERA lead.

His Tuesday outing ensured he had enough innings to qualify, and Ohtani's 0.97 ERA is the only mark below 1.00 among qualified starters. He's holding opposing batters to a .160 average, bested only by teammate Tyler Glasnow's .146 mark.

On this night, though, a train-tracks bomb from Christian Walker and an opposite-field wall-scraper from Braden Shewmake into Houston's Crawford Boxes were enough to beat him. The homers comprised two of the four hits the Astros managed against Ohtani, who struck out eight.

"The hits were homers, so in that sense it was efficient," Ohtani said through interpreter Will Ireton, "but it wasn't something that was good."

And once again, the Dodgers kept Ohtani out of the lineup, so he could concentrate on pitching. On this night, they theoretically could have used him − but Ohtani is also 0 for his last 17 at the plate.

"I think offense, including myself, hasn't done a great job scoring runs. I'm sure if there was a situation where I was hitting well, they'd want me to hit and pitch as well," Ohtani said. "But I understand focus on pitching and turn the page on hitting."

Has his one-track mind when pitching hindered him at the plate?

"I don't think so personally that the pitching has affected the hitting," he says, "but at the same time it's been longer than expected. It's not ideal I'm trying to find that (hitting groove) in the game."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Shohei Ohtani pitching performance in Dodgers vs Astros not his best

The Arizona Cardinals have been connected to free agent quarterback Aaron Rodgers for a bit, and one Cardinals player didn't help the story die down.

Rodgers, who remains unsigned after playing one season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, has not yet revealed his plan to the Steelers for 2026. They placed a seldom-used unrestricted free agent tag on him, although he can still go elsewhere. If he did, the Steelers would be eligible for a compensatory pick.

There are no actual reports that Rodgers is considering the Cardinals or that the Cardinals are pursuing him. There is one saying that the noise and speculation is just nonsense.

But receiver Kendrick Bourne's post on social media has people talking about it still.

@AaronRodgers12 Come on we waiting on you 👀😁

— Kendrick Bourne Poly (@KendrickBourne_) May 5, 2026

This is probably more a case of Bourne seeing and hearing what Cardinals fans are talking about and simply shooting his shot.

There is no doubt that Rodgers would make the Cardinals better.

Last season in Pittsburgh, he led the Steelers to the playoffs, completing 65.7% of his passes for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns and seven interceptions.

The Cardinals do have offensive weapons.

But the Cardinals' roster isn't a quarterback away from competing in the NFC West. Yes, he would immediately make them more relevant, but probably not to the point of getting them to the postseason.

Right now, the Cardinals have Jacoby Brissett, Gardner Minshew, Kedon Slovis and rookie third-round pick Carson Beck at quarterback. Brissett is away from the team during voluntary offseason workouts, seeking a new contract that pays him like a starter, as he is currently projected to be the starter.

Is Bourne's plea enough to get Rodgers to announce he is going to play in 2026 and that he wants to play for the Cardinals?

That doesn't seem likely.

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

This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: Arizona Cardinals WR tries to woo Aaron Rodgers to Arizona

Although he has only been on campus for about four months, when people around Provo ask new BYU linebacker Cade Uluave what it has been like to transfer from Cal-Berkeley to Brigham Young University, he has a rather simple answer.

“I don’t think you could get more polar opposite places,” he said last month as spring practice wrapped up in Provo. “It is crazy, but I love it. It is cool. I went from protests to prayers.”

Not that Uluave, a senior with one season of eligibility remaining, is unhappy about anything during his time at Cal. The South Jordan, Utah, native said he learned a lot on and off the field, met a lot of great people, and grew as a person and a player.

Also, he’s majoring in psychology, and enough of his credits transferred from Cal to BYU that he will be able to graduate next winter before it is time to start vigorously training for the NFL draft.

But first things first. Uluave, already one of the fastest players on the team despite being 6-foot-1 and 235 pounds, has one final college season in which to play. He has one single goal — to help get BYU into the College Football Playoff.

“My college career has been a good experience for me,” he said. “Looking back at it, I think Cal and Berkeley was probably the best place for me out of high school. It did a lot for me, so I give a lot of credit to them. Since moving to Provo, it has been awesome, and a really great experience so far. Coming out of the portal, it is just what I wanted. I’m happy about all of it.”

What is BYU getting from this burly speedster?

Uluave was the top linebacker in the transfer portal, according to 247Sports. In 2025, he posted 100 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, four pass deflections, five quarterback hurries and three sacks to earn All-ACC first-team honors. He made 237 tackles in three seasons at Cal, appearing in 34 games and starting in 26.

In 2023, Uluave was the Pac-12 defensive freshman of the year and a third-team All-Pac-12 selection by Phil Steele.

However, last November, Cal fired head coach Justin Wilcox after a 31-10 loss to Stanford, and he entered the portal in December. Michigan and Texas were among the schools pursuing the linebacker in the portal, but he committed to BYU in mid-January, citing the desire to be closer to home after prepping at Mountain Ridge High in Herriman.

I don’t think you could get more polar opposite places. It is crazy, but I love it. It is cool. I went from protests to prayers.

New BYU linebacker Cade Uluave, a transfer from Cal

“It was a tough decision, but after a lot of prayer and contemplation, I decided there is no better place to play my last year than BYU, which is home to a lot of my family,” Uluave said.

Indeed, Uluave’s grandfather, Peter Uluave, was bishop of the first Polynesian ward in the Provo area for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and his cousin, Semisi Uluave, signed with BYU in 2025 and is currently on a church mission.

‘This place is in my blood’

“My grandpa has been a BYU season ticket holder for 20 years. This place is in my blood,” Cade Uluave said. “The roots run super deep.”

His father, Kalisi, played linebacker at Southern Utah and went to graduate school at BYU. His sister, Chloee, attends BYU.

At Mountain Ridge, a large but relatively new school that opened in 2019, Uluave played both linebacker and running back, and registered 154 tackles and rushed for 1,638 yards and 26 touchdowns. He also played baseball and ran track.

He was rated as a four-star LB out of Mountain Ridge by 247Sports, but didn’t really draw a lot of interest from BYU and picked Cal over offers from UCLA, Boise State, Duke, Washington State and others. Uluave said he didn’t have a “super big preference” as his favorite team growing up, but “deep down” was always a BYU fan because his dad grew up in Provo and his grandfather always praised the school.

“As I’ve walked around campus, I can’t tell you how many people have said, ‘I know your grandpa, or, I know your cousin,’” Uluave said. “I love that, I really do.”

A linebacker with receiver’s speed

Uluave has been clocked running anywhere between a 4.51 to 4.75 seconds time in the 40-yard dash, which is extraordinarily fast for a man his size. He ran the 4.51 time in 2022 at a high school regional combine in Dallas, and although he hasn’t been tested recently, he believes he’s even faster now after three years of college training.

“He’s maybe the second-fastest guy on our team right now, and we have some really fast guys,” defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga said in March. “… We’ve clocked Cade in practice at 22 miles an hour, which is as fast as most of our cornerbacks.

“I watched his film (when he was at Cal) and I thought he was fast, but he’s faster and more explosive than I thought he was,” Poppinga continued. “When that guy pulls the trigger in the run game and comes downhill, it is as quick and fast as I’ve seen. Really excited to see what he is going to do in Big 12 games.”

Uluave played spring ball with a heavily bandaged, club-like right hand, but said he will be ready to go in May when the players get back together for player-run practices and workouts.

“They said 22 (mph), so if that is true that’s the fastest I’ve ever been at,” Uluave said. “I credit coach (Ryan) Phillis and the strength staff. One of the first things I noticed at BYU was how big, fast and strong our guys are. That’s a huge credit to type of workouts we do. We work hard and the (strength staff) elevates us.”

Having played in the Pac-12 and the ACC, Uluave said BYU’s players are just as athletic and talented as anywhere in the country.

“We got players who are legit,” he said. “We got size, speed, you name it. We played Miami and they probably had one of the biggest O lines that I have ever seen, and now I’m at BYU and our O line is probably the most athletic O line I have ever seen. Being able to play in three different conferences, from the Pac-12 to ACC and now the Big 12, it has been awesome. We are right there, for sure.”

Can Uluave play in the NFL?

Having played four seasons in the NFL, former BYU linebacker Justin Ena — now the school’s special teams coordinator — knows what it takes to make an NFL roster. He believes Uluave is well on his way.

“There’s no doubt in my mind that he’s going to be a huge contributor (to the BYU defense), just the way he plays,” Ena said. “He’s very, very intentional, and you can tell that by just how he plays. He has a motor. He’s violent (tackling). He’s also a master of the film, because you see his reads, and his reactions are elite.”

Both Poppinga and Ena noted that newcomer Jake Clifton, who transferred from Kansas State after a church mission to Nicaragua, also looked great in spring camp.

“Those are two transfer guys, Jake just coming along this mission, who can play at the next level,” Poppinga said. “Those guys have played a lot of football, and then you combine that we already have with Siale Esera, Miles Hall, Isaiah Glasker, Ace Kaufusi, Maika Kaufusi, Pierson Watson, it is super competitive in the linebackers room.”

Uluave said his position coach at Cal was also the defensive coordinator, so he’s grateful that Poppinga will be both the DC and the inside linebackers coach.

“I am looking to be versatile in this defense and just showing people that I can be all over the field,” Uluave said. “In coach Poppinga’s defense, that is literally what it is all about, being versatile and making plays. That’s something I am excited to do for BYU.”

MORRISTOWN, N.J. – Khamzat Chimaev welcomes whatever may come his way from Sean Strickland before or after UFC 328.

The pre-fight drama quickly ramped up when Strickland (30-7 MMA, 17-7 UFC) went on a heated rant, calling the current UFC middleweight champion derogatory names and even threatening to shoot him and his team if they crossed paths and things got heated. Chimaev (15-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) welcomes the threat, but so far during fight week, he has yet to see his UFC 328 headlining opponent.

"I don't think it's possible (for Strickland to shoot me) because they don't let me see this guy," Chimaev told MMA Junkie and other reporters during a pre-fight media scrum. "So, I don't know where he is. I've been here for three days in the lobby, and the guy said he's gonna shoot me. Let's go. Do that. I will be happy to die."

Khamzat Chimaev reacts to increased security before #UFC328 and says "it's not for me."

"That guys says he's going to shoot me. Let's go. Do that. I will be happy to die." pic.twitter.com/DtSLeXViqb

— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) May 5, 2026

Despite the juvenile insults Strickled hurled his way, Chimaev insists that none of the trash talk is personal for him. Regardless of how Chimaev feels about everything, the UFC has taken extra precautions to keep the two parties separated until they meet inside the cage Saturday at Prudential Center in Newark.

"Let him come," Chimaev said. "I think they took him to some other hotel... I don't know. I tried to find the guy – and that's not so much personal. The guy just talks too much."

After the fight, Chimaev has no interest in reconciling differences with Strickland. For the champ, it's all about handling business, securing the biggest payday he's had in the UFC to date, and moving on to the next challenge. If Strickland wants to shake hands after the fight or not, Chimaev explained why either outcome makes no difference to him.

"What's the point if I shake hands or not?" Chimaev said. "After the fight, I beat him up, maybe never see him again. Other 15 guys I've already beat, I almost didn't see them again. I don't care about his life, I'm doing my life."

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Khamzat Chimaev welcomes pre-UFC 328 altercation with Sean Strickland

Michigan State football is continuing to prioritize the recruitment of a high-level offensive lineman prospect that recently listed the Spartans as one of his finalists.

A pair of Michigan State offensive coaches traveled to New Madison, Ohio this week to check-in with four-star offensive lineman Dominic Black. That included Spartans offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan and offensive line coach Nick Tabacca, according to a social media post from Black.

Michigan State was recently named one of eight schools still in the running for Black's commitment. He also is considering Kentucky, Indiana, North Carolina, West Virginia, NC State, Tennessee and Virginia Tech.

Black is listed as a four-star offensive tackle, with a recruiting rating of 92.72 in the 247Sports composite system. He is listed as the No. 18 offensive tackle and No. 5 player from Ohio in the 2027 class, according to 247Sports. He is also ranked as the No. 125 overall prospect in the class.

Michigan State is currently in an uphill battle in Black's recruitment, with Indiana, Kentucky and Virginia Tech the perceived favorites at the moment. All three of those schools have official visits lined up for May and June, so Michigan State is going to need to make a strong push to get Black on campus for an official visit. Having Sheridan and Tabacca visit him this week shows they're still pushing hard, though, which is all you can ask for in a battle for a player of this caliber.

Appreciate @CoachTabacca and @FBCoachSheridan for stopping by today! pic.twitter.com/geEwvfRm5J

— Dominic Black 4⭐️ (@dominicblack56) May 4, 2026

Contact/Follow us @The SpartansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan State news, notes and opinion. You can also follow Robert Bondy on X @RobertBondy5.

This article originally appeared on Spartans Wire: MSU football prioritizing, pushing for 4-star Ohio OT Dominic Black

Four-time All-Star Draymond Green made headlines this week when speaking on his head coach Steve Kerr.

As Kerr is currently evaluating a decision to return to the team, Green felt the need to air out his grievances with the 12-year head coach.

On his podcast, "The Draymond Green Show," Green had this to say about his offensive development under Kerr. "As much as he's done for me in basketball, a part of me thinks he's hindered me in my career and what I could have become,” said Green.

“You know, when I think of who I was offensively as a player and who I became, I think a part of that is due to him. I don't hold that against him."

While Green's career high in a single season is only 14 points per game, it's hard to argue that he should have seen more opportunities than players like Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Kevin Durant.

Like many dynasties, players are often expected to sacrifice in certain areas to contribute to winning.

Regardless, the timing of these comments certainly seems questionable, especially considering that Kerr could very well return to the sidelines for Golden State next season.

This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Draymond Green blames Steve Kerr for lack of offensive development

May 5—Dax Hill has moved around the Cincinnati Bengals' secondary three times already in his first four NFL seasons and still is willing to do "whatever is best for the team."

But, in his mind, he is at his best on the outside, and that is where Hill would like to stay.

Cincinnati Bengals: Linebackers out to prove they'll be better in 2026

Hill began as a free safety before moving to nickel in 2024, when eventually injuries at outside corner forced him into another shift. He was showing promise in that role before his own ACL tear sidelined him for the final 12 games of 2024, and Hill proved himself last year as one of the most consistent outside corners.

Now, with the Bengals drafting lengthy cornerback Tacario Davis in the third round, Hill's position comes back into question.

"I want to be outside," Hill said Tuesday as the team continued offseason workouts. "I feel like staying at one spot is ideal for development — and my mental health."

Hill drew a laugh from the crowd of media interviewing him Tuesday when he added that last part following a pause. He's been through the carousel of positions and answering the same questions about his position now for three straight offseasons since it was clear after 2023 that it wasn't working out at safety.

The organization re-signed Jalen Davis and brought in Ja'Sir Taylor in free agency, but if Davis proves ready to start this season, the Bengals' best bet to get all three of the top corners on the field together would be moving Hill back inside.

Asked about how challenging that has been, Hill said it was at first, but now he's "kind of used to it."

"I feel like now, I kind of know what I want, and I want to do what's best for the team," Hill said.

Hill said he hasn't had any conversations with the coaching staff yet about his position.

"It's what, three weeks into it now?" Hill said. "So, we'll wait and see what that looks like."

Cincinnati also needs to think about the long term. It seems unlikely the Bengals will extend both Hill and DJ Turner, who are both heading into the final season of their contracts. Hill, who is playing on a fifth-year option this season, confirmed his agent has talked about the future, but said there isn't "too much" conversation going on about an extension.

As someone who has been willing to sacrifice for the team in the past, Hill feels more confident about being able to tell his coaches what he wants, but he did not say if he plans to have that conversation.

"I've had small conversations with my (position) coach throughout the year about, you know, certain things I was doing, you know, if I wanted to have like a blitz or something for a certain game, something like that," Hill said. "I think it was to that point where I could speak up. My first two years, I didn't really have that stripe. I didn't have those stripes earned. So now I feel like I've been here, been one of the guys that's been here, so I feel like I can't speak up and it holds weight now."

Hill credited defensive backs coach Charles Burks for his support over his career.

Burks helped him through his transitions at cornerback, and Hill believes he is capable of playing either spot because of that. However, outside corner just ended up being where he's felt most comfortable and he feels like he's spent too much time switching positions as it is.

"I mean, how well I transitioned to that spot, I feel like, once you feel like you're growing and producing, I feel like that's the sky's the limit," Hill said. "And you want to reach your potential whenever you're young. I mean, it's going on Year 5, and I don't want to, you know, waste a whole lot of time. Just doing some introspection, like, I mean, time has already flown by, so I want to make the most out of it, because it's not a whole lot of time left."

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Another week, another top-ranking for the Kenton Ridge High School softball team.

The defending state champion Cougars (23-0) — owners of a 55-game winning streak, the third-longest in state history — were again ranked No. 1 in the fourth Ohio High School Softball Coaches Poll, which was released Monday, May 4. They’ve been the top-ranked team in D-IV for nine straight weeks, dating back to last season.

Kenton Ridge is also ranked No. 16 in the National Fastpitch Coaches Association poll and No. 12 in the MaxPreps Top 25.

Lakota East (18-4) is No. 3 in D-I, while Centerville (18-6) is No. 5, two spots ahead of No. 7 Lebanon (16-8).

Troy (21-2) remained No. 8 in the D-II state poll.

Greenville (22-1) is No. 2 in D-III, receiving one first-place vote. The Green Wave swept Troy in Miami Valley League Miami Division play, beating the previously unbeaten Trojans 5-0 on Friday, May 1 and 6-0 on Monday, May 4. Oxford Talawanda (17-4) is No. 8 in D-III.

In D-V, Springfield Shawnee (22-2) is second, receiving one first-place vote. Miami East (17-4) remained at No. 4.

Defending D-VI state champion Tri-Village is second and also received a first-place vote. Midwest Athletic Conference power Parkway remained No. 1, while Marion Local is No. 9.

South Charleston Southeastern (20-3) is ranked No. 7 in D-VII. The Trojans won 18 straight games before falling 1-0 to D-VI No. 5 West Jefferson (16-4) on Monday, May 4.

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OXFORD – Patrick Kelly – the son of former LSU head coach Brian Kelly – has been added to Ole Miss’ staff as assistant director of football support, according to his bio on X. Kelly was most recently the football support and operations coordinator on his father’s staff in 2025. On3’s Pete Nakos first reported Kelly’s hire.

Kelly is the third member of last year’s LSU staff to join Pete Golding’s first staff at Ole Miss, as the Rebels also hired Frank Wilson to be running backs coach and Austin Thomas as president of football operations/general manager.

Brian Kelly was fired after eight games in 2025, his fourth season leading the Tigers. Wilson was the interim coach the remainder of the season for LSU, which finished the year 7-6.

The Tigers hired former Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin in late November and elevated Golding from defensive coordinator to permanent head coach. Offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. and running backs coach Kevin Smith were among the coaches who stayed on through the Rebels’ College Football Playoff run before joining Kiffin at LSU. Tight ends coach Joe Cox, linebackers coach Chris Kiffin, wide receivers coach George McDonald, Weis and Smith were among the 20 combined coaches or support staff members that followed Kiffin to LSU.

Ole Miss hosts LSU on Sept. 19 at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.

May 5—Another week, another top-ranking for the Kenton Ridge High School softball team.

The defending state champion Cougars (23-0) — owners of a 55-game winning streak, the third-longest in state history — were again ranked No. 1 in the fourth Ohio High School Softball Coaches Poll, which was released Monday, May 4. They've been the top-ranked team in D-IV for nine straight weeks, dating back to last season.

Kenton Ridge is also ranked No. 16 in the National Fastpitch Coaches Association poll and No. 12 in the MaxPreps Top 25.

Lakota East (18-4) is No. 3 in D-I, while Centerville (18-6) is No. 5, two spots ahead of No. 7 Lebanon (16-8).

Troy (21-2) remained No. 8 in the D-II state poll.

Greenville (22-1) is No. 2 in D-III, receiving one first-place vote. The Green Wave swept Troy in Miami Valley League Miami Division play, beating the previously unbeaten Trojans 5-0 on Friday, May 1 and 6-0 on Monday, May 4. Oxford Talawanda (17-4) is No. 8 in D-III.

In D-V, Springfield Shawnee (22-2) is second, receiving one first-place vote. Miami East (17-4) remained at No. 4.

Defending D-VI state champion Tri-Village is second and also received a first-place vote. Midwest Athletic Conference power Parkway remained No. 1, while Marion Local is No. 9.

South Charleston Southeastern (20-3) is ranked No. 7 in D-VII. The Trojans won 18 straight games before falling 1-0 to D-VI No. 5 West Jefferson (16-4) on Monday, May 4.

Another week, another top-ranking for the Kenton Ridge High School softball team.

The defending state champion Cougars (23-0) — owners of a 55-game winning streak, the third-longest in state history — were again ranked No. 1 in the fourth Ohio High School Softball Coaches Poll, which was released Monday, May 4. They’ve been the top-ranked team in D-IV for nine straight weeks, dating back to last season.

Kenton Ridge is also ranked No. 16 in the National Fastpitch Coaches Association poll and No. 12 in the MaxPreps Top 25.

Lakota East (18-4) is No. 3 in D-I, while Centerville (18-6) is No. 5, two spots ahead of No. 7 Lebanon (16-8).

Troy (21-2) remained No. 8 in the D-II state poll.

Greenville (22-1) is No. 2 in D-III, receiving one first-place vote. The Green Wave swept Troy in Miami Valley League Miami Division play, beating the previously unbeaten Trojans 5-0 on Friday, May 1 and 6-0 on Monday, May 4. Oxford Talawanda (17-4) is No. 8 in D-III.

In D-V, Springfield Shawnee (22-2) is second, receiving one first-place vote. Miami East (17-4) remained at No. 4.

Defending D-VI state champion Tri-Village is second and also received a first-place vote. Midwest Athletic Conference power Parkway remained No. 1, while Marion Local is No. 9.

South Charleston Southeastern (20-3) is ranked No. 7 in D-VII. The Trojans won 18 straight games before falling 1-0 to D-VI No. 5 West Jefferson (16-4) on Monday, May 4.

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Centerville baseball took the Greater Western Ohio Conference title outright and Centerville boys lacrosse secured at least a split of the conference title with wins on Monday, May 4.

Starter Luke Maciejewski went the distance, striking out nine to lead Centerville baseball in a 3-2 win against Beavercreek. Lucas Clark added three hits with one RBI and Ryan Muchmore batted in another run.

The win moved the Elks to 17-2 overall and 12-0 in conference play.

In boys lacrosse Centerville handed Beavercreek its first conference loss with an 18-8 victory and the Elks can claim the GWOC title outright with a win against Northmont next week.

In softball Centerville moved a step closer to the GWOC title with an 11-7 win against Beavercreek. Caitlyn Belcher doubled and homered on a four-hit day, driving in five runs while Lillie Hopf had three hits and two RBI to lead the way.

The victory bumped the Elks to 18-6 overall, 11-1 in the conference and sets up a two-game series with Springboro that will help decide the conference champion. The Elks are scheduled to play at Springboro on Wednesday, May 6 and host them on Friday, May 8.

In boys tennis Centerville secured a split of the GWOC title already but can take it outright with a win at Springboro on Tuesday, May 5.

In boys volleyball Centerville holds a 6-0 record in GWOC play with two conference games left, vs. Northmont on Tuesday, May 5 and at Beavercreek on Thursday, May 7.

Centerville trails Springboro in the girls lacrosse standings but is still in the hunt with two conference games to play.

Baseball

Springboro 13, Wayne 1: Jacob Rhinehart went 2-for-4 with a double and five RBI, Dylan Brabston threw six innings to earn the win on the mound and Springboro improved to 15-4 overall.

Fairmont 8, Springfield 1: Joey Lanning struck out seven over five innings to earn the win, Jackson Furr legged out two triples to go with three RBI and Skyler Slifer tallied three hits and two RBI to pace Fairmont.

Troy 12, Greenville 2: Aidan Gorman, Logan Akers and Jake Reinhardt knocked in a pair of runs apiece and Cole Oswalt picked up the win on the hill. The win marked nine straight for Troy, which improved to 17-1 overall and 14-1 in MVL play.

Butler 28, Piqua 0: Koby Dues doubled twice and drove in five runs, Carson Heis had four hits and four RBI and Butler improved to 17-2 overall and 12-1 in the MVL.

Xenia 2, West Carrollton 0: Braylon Williamson tossed a complete game shutout on an efficient 63 pitches to help Xenia clinch at least a share of the MVL Valley division title.

Ben Logan 2, Indian Lake 0: Jacob Hawley tossed seven shutout innings with six strikeouts to earn the win and Xavier Allen came around to score both runs for Ben Logan.

Badin 10, McNicholas 0: Caleb Driessen tossed six shutout innings, Keegan Sawyer had a 3-for-3 day with a double and one RBI and Badin secured at least a split of the GCLC title after handing McNicholas its first league loss. The Rams can win it outright with a win at home on Wednesday, May 6.

Bellbrook 7, Edgewood 2: It took 12 innings but Bellbrook broke through with five runs to take the win and with it the SWBL Southwestern title. The Eagles improved to 17-2 overall and 8-0 in league play.

Oakwood 11, Dayton Christian 4: The win strengthened Oakwood’s lead in the SWBL Buckeye, improving to 14-6 overall and 10-3 in league play.

Arcanum 17, Franklin Monroe 1: Kolton Quigney drove in four runs on 4-for-4 day and Arcanum secured at least a split of the WOAC title, improving to 10-0 in conference play.

Mechanicsburg 11, Madison Plains 0: Conner Eyink punched out 10 over five shutout innings, Liam O’Laughlin knocked a home run and Mechanicsburg moved to 16-0 overall and 12-0 in the OHC.

Triad 4, Catholic Central 3: Jayden Blackburn tallied two RBI, J.J. Roberts picked up the complete game win and Triad improved to 5-12 with a fourth win in its last five games.

Greeneview 23, Northeastern 2: Trent Webb had a two-homer day to lead Greeneview.

New Miami 11, SBEP 0: With the win New Miami captured the MVC White division title, its first conference title since 2017.

Anna 3, Botkins 1: Cale Wannemacher allowed one run on one hit in a complete game and Anna won a seventh straight to move to 14-3 overall.

Coldwater 10, St. Marys 6: The win bumped Coldwater to 16-1 overall.

Softball

Springboro 11, Wayne 1: Bella Breen struck out eight to earn the win in the circle, Riley Lucas swatted two doubles and a home run and Springboro improved to 10-2 in GWOC play with a pivotal two-game series with Centerville up next.

Lakota East 15, Middletown 0: Sophia Brown knocked a pair of doubles out of the leadoff spot, Abrie Schulte and Maddie Offner each brought in three runs and Lakota East improved to 18-4 overall and 13-1 in the GMC.

Hamilton 12, Princeton 1: Emili Schappacher notched her 10th win of the season and Rishyia Brown tripled and drove in five runs to pace Hamilton.

Kenton Ridge 17, Jonathan Alder 1: Brenna Fyffe, Kendall Glass and Jayden Davis each swatted a home run, Ivee Rastatter picked up the victory in the circle and Kenton Ridge improved to 23-0 with its 55th consecutive victory.

Springfield Shawnee 9, Graham 1: Kelty Hannan improved to 8-0 on the year with the complete-game win, Lily Wilson homered and Shawnee improved to 22-2 overall.

Urbana 5, Tecumseh 4: Morgan Boyd blasted a home run and Isla Wooten picked up the complete-game win for Urbana.

Greenville 6, Troy 0: Ella Oswalt pitched her tenth shutout of the season, striking out nine in a complete game one-hitter to help Greenville clinch at least a share of the MVL Miami division title. Lily Brubaker and Leah Force tacked on two RBI apiece and Greenville improved to 22-1 overall.

Fairborn 6, Sidney 4: The win, the 12th straight for Fairborn, clinched at least a share of the MVL Valley division title for the Skyhawks.

Xenia 6, West Carrollton 4: Tessa Salyers pitched a complete game with eight strikeouts to go with a 2-for-3 day at the plate with two RBI for Xenia.

Badin 18, Fenwick 3: Badin strung together a 12-run first inning to take control early, finishing GCLC play with an 8-0 record. Kendall Ponatoski, Emily O’Brien and Mattilyn Canupp each knocked a home run in the game, with Ponatoski tallying five RBI.

Carlisle 12, Middletown Madison 0: Mya Howard became the career hits leader for Carlisle and the Indians moved to 10-1 in the SWBL. Allisa Shotwell homered and drove in four and Grace Holt struck out ten over five shutout innings for Carlisle.

Ross 10, Seton 0: Paige Baker pitched a two-hit shutout with 11 strikeouts and Kam Commins doubled, homered and drove in five runs to pace Ross.

Oakwood 16, Dayton Christian 10: Julia Einhorn, Abigail Hyatt and Annabelle Neumeister recorded three RBI apiece and Oakwood picked up a senior day win.

Edgewood 7, Carroll 1: Jaycie Broshear scattered three hits and struck out eight in a complete game and Ellie Clemmons tripled and brought in two runs to lead Edgewood.

Eaton 9, Waynesville 5: Senior Madison Copper hit a home run to help Eaton get a senior night win.

Arcanum 25, Franklin Monroe 3: Emily Fox hit her first career home run in the rout for Arcanum.

Dixie 12, National Trail 2: Chelsea Lamb lifted two home runs, finishing with six RBI to pace Dixie.

Tri-County North 2, Mississinawa Valley 0: Alayna MtCastle rung up 12 batters in a complete game shutout as well as going 2-for-3 with one RBI to lead TCN.

Houston 14, Jackson Center 2: Olivia Maier got Arcanum off to a hot start with a first inning home run.

New Miami 11, Lockland 3: The win secured New Miami the MVC Gray division title, the program’s first since 2017.

Marion Local 9, Russia 3: Hannah Rindler, Emily Moeller, Mya Bruggeman and Kalyn Thobe each launched a home run for Marion Local.

Coldwater 4, St. Marys 3: Dana Zahn hit a home run and Coldwater scored twice in the top of the seventh for the rally win.

PREP RESULTS

Baseball

Monday’s Results

Anna 3, Botkins 1: A: Wannemacher W, Worthington 2-3 RBI, Noll RBI.

Arcanum 17, Franklin Monroe 1: A: Quigney 4-4 2B 4 RBI, Stephens 2-4 2B 3 RBI, Cartwright W 9 K.

Badin 10, McNicholas 0: B: Driessen W, Taylor 1-4 2 RBI, Clay 1-1 2 RBI.

Bellbrook 7, Edgewood 2

Ben Logan 2, Indian Lake 0: BL: Hawley W 6 K, Yelton 1-3 RBI.

Butler 28, Piqua 0: B: Dues 3-3 2 2B 5 RBI, Heis 4-5 4 RBI, White 2-3 3 RBI.

Celina 4, Marion Local 0

Centerville 3, Beavercreek 2: C: Clark 3-4 RBI, Muchmore 1-4 RBI, Maciejewski W 9 K.

Coldwater 10, St. Marys 6: C: Dillhoff W 1 K.

Fairbanks 11, Greenon 1

Fairmont 8, Springfield 1: F: Lanning W 7 K, Furr 2-3 2 3B 3 RBI, Slifer 3-4 3B 2 RBI.

Fenwick 5, Carroll 4: F: Kreke 3-4 2 2B RBI, Kauffman 2-4 2B 2 RBI, McCullough 1-2 RBI. C: Price 2-3 2B 2 RBI.

Fort Loramie 14, Fairlawn 0

Greeneview 23, Northeastern 2: G: Webb 4-5 2 HR 4 RBI, Phillips 3-6 4 RBI, Reynolds 2-4 4 RBI.

Jackson Center 4, Houston 3

Jonathan Alder 1, Kenton Ridge 0

Mason 10, Lakota West 2

Mechanicsburg 11, Madison Plains 0: Me: DeLong 2-2 3 RBI, O’Laughlin 1-2 HR 3 RBI, Eyink W 10 K.

National Trail 3, Ansonia 2

New Bremen 20, Union City (IN) 1

New Miami 11, SBEP 0

Oak Hills 11, Middletown 0

Oakwood 11, Dayton Christian 4

Princeton 5, Fairfield 4: F: Clemmons 2-4 RBI, Hembree 1-3 2B RBI.

Roger Bacon 8, Cin. Christian 7

Russia 8, Lima Shawnee 2

Sidney 4, Fairborn 3: S: Perry 1-2 RBI, Cotterman 1-2 RBI, Ferguson 1-3 RBI.

Springboro 13, Wayne 1: S: Brabston W 4 K, Rhinehart 2-4 2B 5 RBI, Hutchinson 2-4 2B 2 RBI.

Sycamore 9, Hamilton 8

Tippecanoe 14, Stebbins 4: T: Davis W.

Triad 4, Catholic Central 3: T: Blackburn 1-3 2 RBI, Hayes 1-4 RBI, Roberts W 6 K.

Tri-County North 8, Mississinawa Valley 4: TCN: Heltsley W 4 K, Fannin 2 RBI.

Tri-Village 11, Preble Shawnee 6

Troy 12, Greenville 2: T: Oswalt W 5 K, Gorman 3-4 2B 3B 2 RBI, Akers 2-4 2B 2 RBI.

Urbana 11, Tecumseh 1: U: Roberts 1-1 2B 3 RBI, Houseman 2-3 2B 2 RBI, Endres W 10 K, 2-3 RBI.

West Jefferson 12, Southeastern 0

Wilmington 7, New Richmond 5: W: Tackett W.

Xenia 2, West Carrollton 0: X: Williamson W 4 K, Kingsolver 2B RBI, Scott RBI.

Sunday’s Results

Chaminade Julienne 8, Alter 3

Softball

Monday’s Results

Anna 4, Botkins 3

Arcanum 25, Franklin Monroe 3: A: J. Garbig 3-3 2B 5 RBI, Fox 3-5 HR 3 RBI, Flatter 3-3 2B 2 RBI.

Badin 18, Fenwick 3: B: Ponatoski 3-3 2 2B HR 5 RBI, Canupp 2-3 HR 3 RBI, O’Brien 2-3 HR 2 RBI.

Ben Logan 7, Indian Lake 4: BL: Gregg W 8 K, Kline 4-4 2B RBI, Norviel 1-4 2 RBI.

Carlisle 12, Middletown Madison 0: C: Holt W 10 K, Crowe 3-3 3 RBI, Shotwell 2-3 HR 4 RBI.

Centerville 11, Beavercreek 7: C: Belcher 4-4 2B HR 5 RBI, Carr 4-5 2B RBI, Hopf 3-4 2 RBI.

Celina 14, Fort Recovery 4: FR: Grisez HR 3 RBI.

Coldwater 4, St. Marys 3: C: Zahn 2B HR 2 RBI, Klingshirn W 7 K, 2B RBI.

Dixie 12, National Trail 2: D: Lamb 2-2 2 HR 6 RBI, McConnell W 3 K, 2-3 3 RBI, Himan 1-2 2B RBI.

Eaton 9, Waynesville 5

Edgewood 7, Carroll 1: E: Broshear W 8 K, Strunk 1-4 3 RBI, Clemmons 1-3 3B 2 RBI.

Fairbanks 12, Greenon 1

Fairborn 6, Sidney 4

Fort Loramie 13, Fairlawn 0

Greeneview 6, Northeastern 3: G: Burkett W 3 K, 2-4 RBI, Zink 1-2 RBI.

Greenville 6, Troy 0: G: Oswalt W 9 K, 1-4 RBI, Brubaker 2-2 2 RBI, Fourman 2-3 2B RBI.

Hamilton 12, Princeton 1: H: Schappacher W 6 K, 2-3 2B RBI, Brown 2-3 3B 5 RBI, Rupp 1-4 2B 2 RBI.

Houston 14, Jackson Center 2: H: Maier HR.

Kenton Ridge 17, Jonathan Alder 1: KR: Davis 3-5 2B 3B HR 3 RBI, C. Glass 4-4 2 2B 3 RBI, Fyffe 3-4 2 2B HR 3 RBI, K. Glass 1-2 HR 3 RBI.

Lakota East 15, Middletown 0: LE: Offner 1-2 3B 3 RBI, A. Schulte 2-2 2B 3 RBI, Brown 3-4 2 2B 2 RBI.

Marion Local 9, Russia 3: ML: Rindler HR, Moeller HR, Bruggeman HR, Thobe HR.

Mason 2, Oak Hills 1

Minster 12, St. Henry 2: M: Tyler HR 2 RBI, Knapke 2B 2 RBI.

Monroe 6, Chaminade Julienne 5

North Union 3, Northwestern 2

Norwood 19, McNicholas 2

Oakwood 16, Dayton Christian 10: O: Ferra W 7 K, Hyatt 2-6 3B 3 RBI, Neumeister 2-5 3 RBI.

Piqua 14, Butler 4

Ross 10, Seton 0: R: Baker W 11 K, 2-4 RBI, Commins 3-3 2B HR 5 RBI, Webb 2-4 2 RBI.

Springboro 11, Wayne 1: S: Breen W 8 K, Lucas HR.

Springfield Shawnee 9, Graham 1: SS: Hannan W 1 K, Wilson 1-3 HR 2 RBI, Dubie 3-3 2B 3B RBI.

Tri-County North 2, Mississinawa Valley 0: TCN: MtCastle W 12 K, 2-3 RBI.

Urbana 5, Tecumseh 4: U: Boyd 2-3 2B HR 2 RBI, Wooten W 7 K, 2-3 3B RBI, Packer 1-4 RBI.

West Jefferson 1, Southeastern 0

Wilmington 6, New Richmond 5

Xenia 6, West Carrollton 4: X: Salyers W 8 K, 2-3 2 RBI, Wright 3-3 2B RBI. WC: Seebach 2-3 2 RBI.

Boys Tennis

Monday’s Results

Badin 3, Hamilton 2

Cedarville 4, Legacy Christian 1

Dayton Christian 5, Beavercreek 0

Fairborn 3, Greenon 2

Fairmont 5, Northmont 0

Greenville 3, Chaminade Julienne 2

Lima Shawnee 4, St. Marys 1

Sidney 3, Lehman Catholic 2: Riley (S) d. Taylor, 6-2 6-3; Danklefsen (S) d. Lins, 6-2 6-0; Steenrod (S) d. Flood, 6-3 6-2. Cooper/Linson (LC) d. Longbrake/Payne, 6-4 2-6 11-9; Fitchpatrick/Goubeaux (LC) d. Sprowl/Barga, 6-2 6-3.

Stebbins 4, Stivers 1

Tecumseh 3, Northeastern 2

Wilmington 5, East Clinton 0

Boys Volleyball

Monday’s Results

Alter 3, Chaminade Julienne 1

Beavercreek 3, Middletown 0

Lebanon 3, Fairfield 0

Northmont 3, East Dayton Christian 1

Roger Bacon 3, Lakota West 1

Boys Lacrosse

Monday’s Results

Bellbrook 7, Mariemont 6

Centerville 18, Beavercreek 8

Clinton-Massie 20, Wilmington 1

Lakota East 9, Springboro 6

Little Miami 19, Oakwood 7

Northmont 13, Franklin 1

Girls Lacrosse

Monday’s Results

Chaminade Julienne 20, Tippecanoe 8

Lebanon 14, St. Ursula 11

Mason 15, Lakota West 11

McNicholas 19, Carroll 3

REPORTING RESULTS

Contact Dayton Daily News, Springfield News-Sun and Journal-News with scores and results as soon as possible after varsity high school athletic contests by email only at COPSports@coxincn.com. Please include any details from your contest that you would like published along with a contact name and phone number.

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Centerville leaped ahead of Springboro and Beavercreek in the newest Ohio High School Baseball Coaches Association state poll this week.

The Elks are now No. 3 in Division I and received two first place votes. Centerville (17-2) swept Beavercreek (14-5) on Monday and clinched the Greater Western Ohio Conference championship in the process. They will play Springboro (15-4) on Wednesday and Friday.

Beavercreek swept Springboro, the two-time defending league champs, and moved into the No. 4 ranking ahead of the No. 5 Panthers.

Troy (17-1) remained in the third spot in D-II. Butler (17-2), Kenton Ridge (17-3) and Badin (15-3) are still ranked first, second, and third, respectively, in the D-III poll. Tippecanoe (16-5) dropped nine spots to 17th and Bellbrook (17-2) four spots to 12th.

Urbana (14-5) entered the D-IV rankings in a tie for 18th. Coldwater (16-1) moved up one spot to No. 2 in D-V, and Anna (13-3) is up eight spots to No. 10. Versailles (15-6) moved out while Arcanum (16-2) enters at 18th.

In D-VI, St. Henry (14-2) remains third and Mechanicsburg (16-0) is up one spot to fifth. Fort Loramie (13-6) moved up to No. 8 in D-VII, while Minster (10-6) fell to 10th and Newton (13-3) to 15th.

The district tournament draw takes place Sunday for all seven divisions.

Division III through VII softball district tournament brackets

Centerville baseball took the Greater Western Ohio Conference title outright and Centerville boys lacrosse secured at least a split of the conference title with wins on Monday, May 4.

Starter Luke Maciejewski went the distance, striking out nine to lead Centerville baseball in a 3-2 win against Beavercreek. Lucas Clark added three hits with one RBI and Ryan Muchmore batted in another run.

The win moved the Elks to 17-2 overall and 12-0 in conference play.

In boys lacrosse Centerville handed Beavercreek its first conference loss with an 18-8 victory and the Elks can claim the GWOC title outright with a win against Northmont next week.

In softball Centerville moved a step closer to the GWOC title with an 11-7 win against Beavercreek. Caitlyn Belcher doubled and homered on a four-hit day, driving in five runs while Lillie Hopf had three hits and two RBI to lead the way.

The victory bumped the Elks to 18-6 overall, 11-1 in the conference and sets up a two-game series with Springboro that will help decide the conference champion. The Elks are scheduled to play at Springboro on Wednesday, May 6 and host them on Friday, May 8.

In boys tennis Centerville secured a split of the GWOC title already but can take it outright with a win at Springboro on Tuesday, May 5.

In boys volleyball Centerville holds a 6-0 record in GWOC play with two conference games left, vs. Northmont on Tuesday, May 5 and at Beavercreek on Thursday, May 7.

Centerville trails Springboro in the girls lacrosse standings but is still in the hunt with two conference games to play.

Baseball

Springboro 13, Wayne 1: Jacob Rhinehart went 2-for-4 with a double and five RBI, Dylan Brabston threw six innings to earn the win on the mound and Springboro improved to 15-4 overall.

Fairmont 8, Springfield 1: Joey Lanning struck out seven over five innings to earn the win, Jackson Furr legged out two triples to go with three RBI and Skyler Slifer tallied three hits and two RBI to pace Fairmont.

Troy 12, Greenville 2: Aidan Gorman, Logan Akers and Jake Reinhardt knocked in a pair of runs apiece and Cole Oswalt picked up the win on the hill. The win marked nine straight for Troy, which improved to 17-1 overall and 14-1 in MVL play.

Butler 28, Piqua 0: Koby Dues doubled twice and drove in five runs, Carson Heis had four hits and four RBI and Butler improved to 17-2 overall and 12-1 in the MVL.

Xenia 2, West Carrollton 0: Braylon Williamson tossed a complete game shutout on an efficient 63 pitches to help Xenia clinch at least a share of the MVL Valley division title.

Ben Logan 2, Indian Lake 0: Jacob Hawley tossed seven shutout innings with six strikeouts to earn the win and Xavier Allen came around to score both runs for Ben Logan.

Badin 10, McNicholas 0: Caleb Driessen tossed six shutout innings, Keegan Sawyer had a 3-for-3 day with a double and one RBI and Badin secured at least a split of the GCLC title after handing McNicholas its first league loss. The Rams can win it outright with a win at home on Wednesday, May 6.

Bellbrook 7, Edgewood 2: It took 12 innings but Bellbrook broke through with five runs to take the win and with it the SWBL Southwestern title. The Eagles improved to 17-2 overall and 8-0 in league play.

Oakwood 11, Dayton Christian 4: The win strengthened Oakwood’s lead in the SWBL Buckeye, improving to 14-6 overall and 10-3 in league play.

Arcanum 17, Franklin Monroe 1: Kolton Quigney drove in four runs on 4-for-4 day and Arcanum secured at least a split of the WOAC title, improving to 10-0 in conference play.

Mechanicsburg 11, Madison Plains 0: Conner Eyink punched out 10 over five shutout innings, Liam O’Laughlin knocked a home run and Mechanicsburg moved to 16-0 overall and 12-0 in the OHC.

Triad 4, Catholic Central 3: Jayden Blackburn tallied two RBI, J.J. Roberts picked up the complete game win and Triad improved to 5-12 with a fourth win in its last five games.

Greeneview 23, Northeastern 2: Trent Webb had a two-homer day to lead Greeneview.

New Miami 11, SBEP 0: With the win New Miami captured the MVC White division title, its first conference title since 2017.

Anna 3, Botkins 1: Cale Wannemacher allowed one run on one hit in a complete game and Anna won a seventh straight to move to 14-3 overall.

Coldwater 10, St. Marys 6: The win bumped Coldwater to 16-1 overall.

Softball

Springboro 11, Wayne 1: Bella Breen struck out eight to earn the win in the circle, Riley Lucas swatted two doubles and a home run and Springboro improved to 10-2 in GWOC play with a pivotal two-game series with Centerville up next.

Lakota East 15, Middletown 0: Sophia Brown knocked a pair of doubles out of the leadoff spot, Abrie Schulte and Maddie Offner each brought in three runs and Lakota East improved to 18-4 overall and 13-1 in the GMC.

Hamilton 12, Princeton 1: Emili Schappacher notched her 10th win of the season and Rishyia Brown tripled and drove in five runs to pace Hamilton.

Kenton Ridge 17, Jonathan Alder 1: Brenna Fyffe, Kendall Glass and Jayden Davis each swatted a home run, Ivee Rastatter picked up the victory in the circle and Kenton Ridge improved to 23-0 with its 55th consecutive victory.

Springfield Shawnee 9, Graham 1: Kelty Hannan improved to 8-0 on the year with the complete-game win, Lily Wilson homered and Shawnee improved to 22-2 overall.

Urbana 5, Tecumseh 4: Morgan Boyd blasted a home run and Isla Wooten picked up the complete-game win for Urbana.

Greenville 6, Troy 0: Ella Oswalt pitched her tenth shutout of the season, striking out nine in a complete game one-hitter to help Greenville clinch at least a share of the MVL Miami division title. Lily Brubaker and Leah Force tacked on two RBI apiece and Greenville improved to 22-1 overall.

Fairborn 6, Sidney 4: The win, the 12th straight for Fairborn, clinched at least a share of the MVL Valley division title for the Skyhawks.

Xenia 6, West Carrollton 4: Tessa Salyers pitched a complete game with eight strikeouts to go with a 2-for-3 day at the plate with two RBI for Xenia.

Badin 18, Fenwick 3: Badin strung together a 12-run first inning to take control early, finishing GCLC play with an 8-0 record. Kendall Ponatoski, Emily O’Brien and Mattilyn Canupp each knocked a home run in the game, with Ponatoski tallying five RBI.

Carlisle 12, Middletown Madison 0: Mya Howard became the career hits leader for Carlisle and the Indians moved to 10-1 in the SWBL. Allisa Shotwell homered and drove in four and Grace Holt struck out ten over five shutout innings for Carlisle.

Ross 10, Seton 0: Paige Baker pitched a two-hit shutout with 11 strikeouts and Kam Commins doubled, homered and drove in five runs to pace Ross.

Oakwood 16, Dayton Christian 10: Julia Einhorn, Abigail Hyatt and Annabelle Neumeister recorded three RBI apiece and Oakwood picked up a senior day win.

Edgewood 7, Carroll 1: Jaycie Broshear scattered three hits and struck out eight in a complete game and Ellie Clemmons tripled and brought in two runs to lead Edgewood.

Eaton 9, Waynesville 5: Senior Madison Copper hit a home run to help Eaton get a senior night win.

Arcanum 25, Franklin Monroe 3: Emily Fox hit her first career home run in the rout for Arcanum.

Dixie 12, National Trail 2: Chelsea Lamb lifted two home runs, finishing with six RBI to pace Dixie.

Tri-County North 2, Mississinawa Valley 0: Alayna MtCastle rung up 12 batters in a complete game shutout as well as going 2-for-3 with one RBI to lead TCN.

Houston 14, Jackson Center 2: Olivia Maier got Arcanum off to a hot start with a first inning home run.

New Miami 11, Lockland 3: The win secured New Miami the MVC Gray division title, the program’s first since 2017.

Marion Local 9, Russia 3: Hannah Rindler, Emily Moeller, Mya Bruggeman and Kalyn Thobe each launched a home run for Marion Local.

Coldwater 4, St. Marys 3: Dana Zahn hit a home run and Coldwater scored twice in the top of the seventh for the rally win.

PREP RESULTS

Baseball

Monday’s Results

Anna 3, Botkins 1: A: Wannemacher W, Worthington 2-3 RBI, Noll RBI.

Arcanum 17, Franklin Monroe 1: A: Quigney 4-4 2B 4 RBI, Stephens 2-4 2B 3 RBI, Cartwright W 9 K.

Badin 10, McNicholas 0: B: Driessen W, Taylor 1-4 2 RBI, Clay 1-1 2 RBI.

Bellbrook 7, Edgewood 2

Ben Logan 2, Indian Lake 0: BL: Hawley W 6 K, Yelton 1-3 RBI.

Butler 28, Piqua 0: B: Dues 3-3 2 2B 5 RBI, Heis 4-5 4 RBI, White 2-3 3 RBI.

Celina 4, Marion Local 0

Centerville 3, Beavercreek 2: C: Clark 3-4 RBI, Muchmore 1-4 RBI, Maciejewski W 9 K.

Coldwater 10, St. Marys 6: C: Dillhoff W 1 K.

Fairbanks 11, Greenon 1

Fairmont 8, Springfield 1: F: Lanning W 7 K, Furr 2-3 2 3B 3 RBI, Slifer 3-4 3B 2 RBI.

Fenwick 5, Carroll 4: F: Kreke 3-4 2 2B RBI, Kauffman 2-4 2B 2 RBI, McCullough 1-2 RBI. C: Price 2-3 2B 2 RBI.

Fort Loramie 14, Fairlawn 0

Greeneview 23, Northeastern 2: G: Webb 4-5 2 HR 4 RBI, Phillips 3-6 4 RBI, Reynolds 2-4 4 RBI.

Jackson Center 4, Houston 3

Jonathan Alder 1, Kenton Ridge 0

Mason 10, Lakota West 2

Mechanicsburg 11, Madison Plains 0: Me: DeLong 2-2 3 RBI, O’Laughlin 1-2 HR 3 RBI, Eyink W 10 K.

National Trail 3, Ansonia 2

New Bremen 20, Union City (IN) 1

New Miami 11, SBEP 0

Oak Hills 11, Middletown 0

Oakwood 11, Dayton Christian 4

Princeton 5, Fairfield 4: F: Clemmons 2-4 RBI, Hembree 1-3 2B RBI.

Roger Bacon 8, Cin. Christian 7

Russia 8, Lima Shawnee 2

Sidney 4, Fairborn 3: S: Perry 1-2 RBI, Cotterman 1-2 RBI, Ferguson 1-3 RBI.

Springboro 13, Wayne 1: S: Brabston W 4 K, Rhinehart 2-4 2B 5 RBI, Hutchinson 2-4 2B 2 RBI.

Sycamore 9, Hamilton 8

Tippecanoe 14, Stebbins 4: T: Davis W.

Triad 4, Catholic Central 3: T: Blackburn 1-3 2 RBI, Hayes 1-4 RBI, Roberts W 6 K.

Tri-County North 8, Mississinawa Valley 4: TCN: Heltsley W 4 K, Fannin 2 RBI.

Tri-Village 11, Preble Shawnee 6

Troy 12, Greenville 2: T: Oswalt W 5 K, Gorman 3-4 2B 3B 2 RBI, Akers 2-4 2B 2 RBI.

Urbana 11, Tecumseh 1: U: Roberts 1-1 2B 3 RBI, Houseman 2-3 2B 2 RBI, Endres W 10 K, 2-3 RBI.

West Jefferson 12, Southeastern 0

Wilmington 7, New Richmond 5: W: Tackett W.

Xenia 2, West Carrollton 0: X: Williamson W 4 K, Kingsolver 2B RBI, Scott RBI.

Sunday’s Results

Chaminade Julienne 8, Alter 3

Softball

Monday’s Results

Anna 4, Botkins 3

Arcanum 25, Franklin Monroe 3: A: J. Garbig 3-3 2B 5 RBI, Fox 3-5 HR 3 RBI, Flatter 3-3 2B 2 RBI.

Badin 18, Fenwick 3: B: Ponatoski 3-3 2 2B HR 5 RBI, Canupp 2-3 HR 3 RBI, O’Brien 2-3 HR 2 RBI.

Ben Logan 7, Indian Lake 4: BL: Gregg W 8 K, Kline 4-4 2B RBI, Norviel 1-4 2 RBI.

Carlisle 12, Middletown Madison 0: C: Holt W 10 K, Crowe 3-3 3 RBI, Shotwell 2-3 HR 4 RBI.

Centerville 11, Beavercreek 7: C: Belcher 4-4 2B HR 5 RBI, Carr 4-5 2B RBI, Hopf 3-4 2 RBI.

Celina 14, Fort Recovery 4: FR: Grisez HR 3 RBI.

Coldwater 4, St. Marys 3: C: Zahn 2B HR 2 RBI, Klingshirn W 7 K, 2B RBI.

Dixie 12, National Trail 2: D: Lamb 2-2 2 HR 6 RBI, McConnell W 3 K, 2-3 3 RBI, Himan 1-2 2B RBI.

Eaton 9, Waynesville 5

Edgewood 7, Carroll 1: E: Broshear W 8 K, Strunk 1-4 3 RBI, Clemmons 1-3 3B 2 RBI.

Fairbanks 12, Greenon 1

Fairborn 6, Sidney 4

Fort Loramie 13, Fairlawn 0

Greeneview 6, Northeastern 3: G: Burkett W 3 K, 2-4 RBI, Zink 1-2 RBI.

Greenville 6, Troy 0: G: Oswalt W 9 K, 1-4 RBI, Brubaker 2-2 2 RBI, Fourman 2-3 2B RBI.

Hamilton 12, Princeton 1: H: Schappacher W 6 K, 2-3 2B RBI, Brown 2-3 3B 5 RBI, Rupp 1-4 2B 2 RBI.

Houston 14, Jackson Center 2: H: Maier HR.

Kenton Ridge 17, Jonathan Alder 1: KR: Davis 3-5 2B 3B HR 3 RBI, C. Glass 4-4 2 2B 3 RBI, Fyffe 3-4 2 2B HR 3 RBI, K. Glass 1-2 HR 3 RBI.

Lakota East 15, Middletown 0: LE: Offner 1-2 3B 3 RBI, A. Schulte 2-2 2B 3 RBI, Brown 3-4 2 2B 2 RBI.

Marion Local 9, Russia 3: ML: Rindler HR, Moeller HR, Bruggeman HR, Thobe HR.

Mason 2, Oak Hills 1

Minster 12, St. Henry 2: M: Tyler HR 2 RBI, Knapke 2B 2 RBI.

Monroe 6, Chaminade Julienne 5

North Union 3, Northwestern 2

Norwood 19, McNicholas 2

Oakwood 16, Dayton Christian 10: O: Ferra W 7 K, Hyatt 2-6 3B 3 RBI, Neumeister 2-5 3 RBI.

Piqua 14, Butler 4

Ross 10, Seton 0: R: Baker W 11 K, 2-4 RBI, Commins 3-3 2B HR 5 RBI, Webb 2-4 2 RBI.

Springboro 11, Wayne 1: S: Breen W 8 K, Lucas HR.

Springfield Shawnee 9, Graham 1: SS: Hannan W 1 K, Wilson 1-3 HR 2 RBI, Dubie 3-3 2B 3B RBI.

Tri-County North 2, Mississinawa Valley 0: TCN: MtCastle W 12 K, 2-3 RBI.

Urbana 5, Tecumseh 4: U: Boyd 2-3 2B HR 2 RBI, Wooten W 7 K, 2-3 3B RBI, Packer 1-4 RBI.

West Jefferson 1, Southeastern 0

Wilmington 6, New Richmond 5

Xenia 6, West Carrollton 4: X: Salyers W 8 K, 2-3 2 RBI, Wright 3-3 2B RBI. WC: Seebach 2-3 2 RBI.

Boys Tennis

Monday’s Results

Badin 3, Hamilton 2

Cedarville 4, Legacy Christian 1

Dayton Christian 5, Beavercreek 0

Fairborn 3, Greenon 2

Fairmont 5, Northmont 0

Greenville 3, Chaminade Julienne 2

Lima Shawnee 4, St. Marys 1

Sidney 3, Lehman Catholic 2: Riley (S) d. Taylor, 6-2 6-3; Danklefsen (S) d. Lins, 6-2 6-0; Steenrod (S) d. Flood, 6-3 6-2. Cooper/Linson (LC) d. Longbrake/Payne, 6-4 2-6 11-9; Fitchpatrick/Goubeaux (LC) d. Sprowl/Barga, 6-2 6-3.

Stebbins 4, Stivers 1

Tecumseh 3, Northeastern 2

Wilmington 5, East Clinton 0

Boys Volleyball

Monday’s Results

Alter 3, Chaminade Julienne 1

Beavercreek 3, Middletown 0

Lebanon 3, Fairfield 0

Northmont 3, East Dayton Christian 1

Roger Bacon 3, Lakota West 1

Boys Lacrosse

Monday’s Results

Bellbrook 7, Mariemont 6

Centerville 18, Beavercreek 8

Clinton-Massie 20, Wilmington 1

Lakota East 9, Springboro 6

Little Miami 19, Oakwood 7

Northmont 13, Franklin 1

Girls Lacrosse

Monday’s Results

Chaminade Julienne 20, Tippecanoe 8

Lebanon 14, St. Ursula 11

Mason 15, Lakota West 11

McNicholas 19, Carroll 3

REPORTING RESULTS

Contact Dayton Daily News, Springfield News-Sun and Journal-News with scores and results as soon as possible after varsity high school athletic contests by email only at COPSports@coxincn.com. Please include any details from your contest that you would like published along with a contact name and phone number.

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Centerville leaped ahead of Springboro and Beavercreek in the newest Ohio High School Baseball Coaches Association state poll this week.

The Elks are now No. 3 in Division I and received two first place votes. Centerville (17-2) swept Beavercreek (14-5) on Monday and clinched the Greater Western Ohio Conference championship in the process. They will play Springboro (15-4) on Wednesday and Friday.

Beavercreek swept Springboro, the two-time defending league champs, and moved into the No. 4 ranking ahead of the No. 5 Panthers.

Troy (17-1) remained in the third spot in D-II. Butler (17-2), Kenton Ridge (17-3) and Badin (15-3) are still ranked first, second, and third, respectively, in the D-III poll. Tippecanoe (16-5) dropped nine spots to 17th and Bellbrook (17-2) four spots to 12th.

Urbana (14-5) entered the D-IV rankings in a tie for 18th. Coldwater (16-1) moved up one spot to No. 2 in D-V, and Anna (13-3) is up eight spots to No. 10. Versailles (15-6) moved out while Arcanum (16-2) enters at 18th.

In D-VI, St. Henry (14-2) remains third and Mechanicsburg (16-0) is up one spot to fifth. Fort Loramie (13-6) moved up to No. 8 in D-VII, while Minster (10-6) fell to 10th and Newton (13-3) to 15th.

The district tournament draw takes place Sunday for all seven divisions.

Division III through VII softball district tournament brackets

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There isn’t much about Hatley’s softball team that jumps off the page, but the Tigers have been a compelling story this postseason.

They’ve swept each of their first three series in the Class 2A playoffs to earn a spot in the North half finals. After beating Bruce in the first round and blowing past J.Z. George in the second, Hatley (19-11) took down Eupora by scores of 4-2 and 5-4 in the quarterfinals.

“We’re at the end of the season, the kids are where they should be,” head coach Chris George said. “They’re confident in what they’re supposed to do. It’s a comfort in the game itself.”

The Tigers’ hitting hasn’t been quite as good in the playoffs as it was in the regular season, but it’s done well enough. In the Game 2 win against Eupora, freshman Kinsley Echols hit a walk-off RBI single in the eighth inning. And she’s not even one of the team’s top hitters, with a .286 average on the season.

Sophomore Raigan Brown leads Hatley with a .397 average and 26 RBIs; junior Kelsey Coffey is hitting .381 with 20 RBIs; and eighth grader Brileigh Lewis is batting .379 from the leadoff spot with 23 RBIs and 30 runs scored.

“You can look at our lineup, and there’s not any statistics that stand out real great, but one through nine they’re all solid. You’ve got to pick your poison there,” George said.

The pitching is really what’s carried the Tigers on this playoff run. The tandem of senior Emily Hill and sophomore McKarlee Tubbs has allowed just seven runs combined over the last six games. Hill is the ace and has a 2.30 ERA, while Tubbs has a 4.07 ERA.

“Hill’s our No. 1, everybody knows that. She’s a little bit harder thrower, Tubbs is a spinner, so they complement each other great,” said George. “You can go back and forth with them. They’re both very confident when they get on the mound. They’re going to challenge hitters and go right at them.”

The next round will be Hatley’s toughest yet as it battles three-time reigning state champion East Union (30-3). The Urchins have one of the best pitchers in the state in Lucy Cochran, not to mention a batting lineup with zero weak spots. But George isn’t dwelling on all that.

“We’re just going to go out and worry about ourselves, what we can do,” he said. “We can’t worry about what the other team does. We want to put good swings on the ball and play defense behind our pitchers and throw strike one and we’ll be all right.”

OXFORD – Chris Beard admittedly had never been through a season quite like what 2025-26 brought his and Ole Miss’ way.

After making a trip to the program’s second ever Sweet 16 – and first in 24 years – expectations were high last season for the Rebels, who lost four of five starters but added six four-star transfers, according to 247Sports’ rankings.

The Rebels won their first five games in the 2025-26 season before enduring a four-game losing streak. Ole Miss was 11-7 following a one-point win at Mississippi State and had won three games in a row. The Rebels proceeded to lose their next 10 and 12 of 13 overall to close the regular season. Two of the last three losses came in overtime, and the regular-season finale saw South Carolina win on a buzzer beater.

Ole Miss entered the SEC Tournament as the No. 15 seed and won three games to advance to the semifinals before falling to eventual champion Arkansas in overtime. The Rebels finished the season 15-20; it was Beard’s first losing season as a head coach.

“I’ve never experienced a season like we did last year,” Beard told the Daily Journal in a one-on-one interview. “So for me, there’s a lot of fuel, lot of opportunity.”

The college basketball calendar does not provide much time for introspection these days, Beard said, and he hasn’t had much time to look back on how exactly the season veered off course the way it did. But he does maintain a ton of admiration for the way his team fought to the very end, perhaps best evidenced by their SEC Tournament run. It just seemed like the Rebels were “consistently kind of one or two possessions away.”

“Really haven’t had a chance much to reflect on that. It’s been full speed looking ahead. What I would tell you about last year’s team – I do have a lot of respect for those guys and how they continued to just fight and to compete and really stick together," Beard said. “ … We were one basket away from being in that championship game. But I think when I do have a chance to reflect – which I have not to this point – I think just respect and appreciate are the words that come to mind. Those guys really stuck together last year.”

Leading scorer AJ Storr (15.5 points per game) and Malik Dia (14.5 points per game) are both off to begin their professional careers while eight players have since transferred out, including Eduardo Klafke, Travis Perry, James Scott and Tylis Jordan.

There is no ill will to players who chose to leave the program, Beard said, pointing out a general “misconception of how the portal really works.” Players must make the best decisions for themselves, and that doesn’t always mean staying in Oxford.

“We’re really proud of all the players we had. In college basketball, all these players have decisions to make. And so all of our players that chose to go play college basketball elsewhere, we completely supported,” Beard said. “ ... I can tell you I have an incredible relationship with all these guys. I saw Klafke and Gusto (Augusto Cassia) last week. Completely supportive of all these guys. Koren (Johnson), James (Scott), Corey (Chest), all of them. … Each player has the right to make decisions for their future. For us, we support everybody.”

The Rebels will have a few familiar faces returning in 2026, however, as guard Ilias Kamardine was granted an additional year of eligibility. Star freshman guard Patton Pinkins (9.3 points per game) and redshirt freshman Zach Day return as well. Beard called Kamardine “one of the best playmakers in college basketball” and lauded Pinkins’ 42.2% 3-point clip, which was second best in a season in program history among qualified shooters.

“All three of our returners, we have really high expectations for,” Beard said. “ … For those three guys to stay loyal to Ole Miss, to want to be a part of next season … It takes a special competitor to kind of go through the adversity of the season we had and then just immediately be like, ‘Hey, I’m not going anywhere. I’m running it back.’”

The Rebels have commitments from six transfers thus far – Pepperdine center Stefan Cicic, Seton Hall guard Adam “Budd” Clark, Arizona State forward Santiago Trouet, James Madison forward Christian Brown, Saint Joseph’s forward Dasear Haskins and Pitt forward Roman Siulepa. Clark and Siulepa are both rated as four-star transfers by 247Sports.

Ole Miss has officially announced the signings of Clark, Brown, Haskins and Siulepa.

Beard brought up former star guards Sean Pedulla and Jaylen Murray and the idea of multiple playmakers on the court together when envisioning Clark and Kamardine. Beard lauded Siulepa’s “upside,” “toughness” and competitive spirit, amongst other things. Haskins has the type of “position-less” versatility Beard covets and said he will be a favorite at SJB Pavilion and that Brown has the ability and mindset to make an impact at the highest level.

“It starts with, do their aspirations, do their dreams, do their expectations align with what we’re trying to get done here?” Beard said. “ … Portal recruiting is not salesmanship. It’s not us trying to talk somebody into something. It’s a conversation. … When the two sides align, I think that’s where perfect matches are made.”

Dax Hill has moved around the Cincinnati Bengals’ secondary three times already in his first four NFL seasons and still is willing to do “whatever is best for the team.”

But, in his mind, he is at his best on the outside, and that is where Hill would like to stay.

Cincinnati Bengals: Linebackers out to prove they'll be better in 2026

Hill began as a free safety before moving to nickel in 2024, when eventually injuries at outside corner forced him into another shift. He was showing promise in that role before his own ACL tear sidelined him for the final 12 games of 2024, and Hill proved himself last year as one of the most consistent outside corners.

Now, with the Bengals drafting lengthy cornerback Tacario Davis in the third round, Hill’s position comes back into question.

“I want to be outside,” Hill said Tuesday as the team continued offseason workouts. “I feel like staying at one spot is ideal for development – and my mental health.”

Hill drew a laugh from the crowd of media interviewing him Tuesday when he added that last part following a pause. He’s been through the carousel of positions and answering the same questions about his position now for three straight offseasons since it was clear after 2023 that it wasn’t working out at safety.

The organization re-signed Jalen Davis and brought in Ja’Sir Taylor in free agency, but if Davis proves ready to start this season, the Bengals’ best bet to get all three of the top corners on the field together would be moving Hill back inside.

Asked about how challenging that has been, Hill said it was at first, but now he’s “kind of used to it.”

“I feel like now, I kind of know what I want, and I want to do what's best for the team,” Hill said.

Hill said he hasn’t had any conversations with the coaching staff yet about his position.

“It's what, three weeks into it now?” Hill said. “So, we'll wait and see what that looks like.”

Cincinnati also needs to think about the long term. It seems unlikely the Bengals will extend both Hill and DJ Turner, who are both heading into the final season of their contracts. Hill, who is playing on a fifth-year option this season, confirmed his agent has talked about the future, but said there isn’t “too much” conversation going on about an extension.

As someone who has been willing to sacrifice for the team in the past, Hill feels more confident about being able to tell his coaches what he wants, but he did not say if he plans to have that conversation.

“I've had small conversations with my (position) coach throughout the year about, you know, certain things I was doing, you know, if I wanted to have like a blitz or something for a certain game, something like that,” Hill said. “I think it was to that point where I could speak up. My first two years, I didn't really have that stripe. I didn't have those stripes earned. So now I feel like I've been here, been one of the guys that's been here, so I feel like I can't speak up and it holds weight now.”

Hill credited defensive backs coach Charles Burks for his support over his career.

Burks helped him through his transitions at cornerback, and Hill believes he is capable of playing either spot because of that. However, outside corner just ended up being where he’s felt most comfortable and he feels like he’s spent too much time switching positions as it is.

“I mean, how well I transitioned to that spot, I feel like, once you feel like you're growing and producing, I feel like that's the sky's the limit,” Hill said. “And you want to reach your potential whenever you're young. I mean, it's going on Year 5, and I don't want to, you know, waste a whole lot of time. Just doing some introspection, like, I mean, time has already flown by, so I want to make the most out of it, because it's not a whole lot of time left.”

May 5—Centerville leaped ahead of Springboro and Beavercreek in the newest Ohio High School Baseball Coaches Association state poll this week.

The Elks are now No. 3 in Division I and received two first place votes. Centerville (17-2) swept Beavercreek (14-5) on Monday and clinched the Greater Western Ohio Conference championship in the process. They will play Springboro (15-4) on Wednesday and Friday.

Beavercreek swept Springboro, the two-time defending league champs, and moved into the No. 4 ranking ahead of the No. 5 Panthers.

Troy (17-1) remained in the third spot in D-II. Butler (17-2), Kenton Ridge (17-3) and Badin (15-3) are still ranked first, second, and third, respectively, in the D-III poll. Tippecanoe (16-5) dropped nine spots to 17th and Bellbrook (17-2) four spots to 12th.

Urbana (14-5) entered the D-IV rankings in a tie for 18th. Coldwater (16-1) moved up one spot to No. 2 in D-V, and Anna (13-3) is up eight spots to No. 10. Versailles (15-6) moved out while Arcanum (16-2) enters at 18th.

In D-VI, St. Henry (14-2) remains third and Mechanicsburg (16-0) is up one spot to fifth. Fort Loramie (13-6) moved up to No. 8 in D-VII, while Minster (10-6) fell to 10th and Newton (13-3) to 15th.

The district tournament draw takes place Sunday for all seven divisions.

Division III through VII softball district tournament brackets

On the heels of his first-ever MVP, many are clamoring for Matthew Stafford to be a first-ballot Hall of Famer when he eventually retires. NFL pundit Bomani Jones is not one of the people who think that way, though.

The podcast host recently said the Stafford's career compares more closely to Carson Palmer than any other quarterback, and no one is claiming Palmer should be in the Hall of Fame.

"The comp is Carson Palmer. It has always been the comp, right?," Jones said on "The Dominique Foxworth Show." "I've seen people get offended by that. But I think three-time Pro Bowler Carson Palmer and three-time Pro Bowler Matthew Stafford have a decent bit in common. If somehow Carson got himself a Super Bowl, we would have to talk about him the same way."

The differences between Palmer and Stafford are more than just the Super Bowl, though. Stafford has the MVP award as well as one first-team All-Pro nod. Statistically, Stafford has Palmer beat in career completion percentage, passing yards per game and passing touchdowns per game (albeit barely).

But Palmer, like Stafford until he joined the Rams, didn't play on a lot of playoff teams. He made the postseason just three times in 14 years and made the Super Bowl once (where he lost with the Arizona Cardinals to the Pittsburgh Steelers). Stafford made the playoffs just three times before he was traded to the Rams, but has now been to the postseason four times in five seasons and played in 10 playoff games (compared to his three with the Detroit Lions).

To say Stafford is the same as Palmer is a bit disingenuous considering how Stafford's career has looked in the past five years. Yes, he was with the Rams during that time, but Palmer also turned his career around a bit when he joined the Cardinals in his 10th season and never looked as good as Stafford did in L.A.

This point will be moot, too, if Stafford wins another ring with the Rams.

This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Bomani Jones thinks Matthew Stafford resembles Carson Palmer

The Houston Rockets have had players donning a total of 52 different jersey numbers (and have one not part of any numerical series for Houston assistant coach and general manager Carroll Dawson) since their founding at the start of the 1967-68 season, worn by just under 500 players in the course of Rockets history.

To honor all of the players who wore those numbers over the decades, Rockets Wire is covering the entire history of jersey numbers and the players who wore them since the founding of the team all those years ago right up to the present day.

With seven of those jerseys now retired to honor some of the greatest Rockets of all time to wear those jerseys, there is a lot of history to cover.

And for today's article, we will continue with the 10th of 11 who wore the No. 13, guard alum Ish Smith. After ending his college career at Wake Forest, Smith went unselected in the 2010 NBA Draft, signing with the Houston Rockets instead.

The Charlotte, North Carolina native played the first 28 games of his pro career with Houston before he was dealt to the Memphis Grizzlies in 2011.

During his time suiting up for the Rockets, Smith wore only jersey No. 13 and put up 2.3 points, 1.1 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game.

All stats and data courtesy of Basketball Reference.

This article originally appeared on Rockets Wire: Rockets jersey history No. 13 - Ish Smith (2010-11)

The Golden State Warriors have put together their teams through a variety of ways over the years, yet few approaches have proven as successful as the NBA draft. More than anything else, the most talented players to represent the Warriors have arrived in Golden State either by being selected directly in the annual draft or through trades executed on that same night.

The Golden State Warriors have taken many of their top stars through the draft, but have also landed a number of notable players over the years as well. From tiny colleges to blue blood programs, these alumni have contributed significantly to the team's roster over the years. So, we chose to take a closer look at which Dubs came from which schools over the years.

So without further ado, let's take a look at every player who has been drafted by the Warriors out of Creighton.

Bob Portman - wing

Draft year and position: first round (seventh pick, seventh overall), 1969 NBA Draft

Seasons at Creighton: three

Seasons played with Warriors: four

Joe Bergman - forward

Draft year and position: seventh round (second pick, 104th overall), 1970 NBA Draft

Seasons at Creighton: three

Seasons played with Warriors: did not make the team

All stats and data courtesy of Basketball Reference.

This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Every Creighton player drafted by the Warriors

The Brooklyn Nets have developed their teams through a number of strategies over the decades, and their front office has put together considerable success through the NBA draft. Many of the franchise's best players have joined the Nets either by being selected directly in the annual draft or through trades made on that day.

Moreover, it is not only the star players who have been acquired by the Nets through the draft. Several prominent alumni have been selected by the team each offseason during this annual event, with certain colleges being more prominently represented than others. An analysis of the players from different schools reveals that both prestigious programs and smaller institutions have contributed top talent to the Nets' roster over the years.

So without further ado, let's take a look at every player who has been drafted by the Nets out of BYU.

Egor Demin - guard

Draft year and position: first round (eighth pick, eighth overall), 2025 NBA Draft

Seasons at BYU: one

Seasons played with Nets: one

All stats and data courtesy of Basketball Reference.

This article originally appeared on Nets Wire: Every BYU player drafted by the Nets

Turns out smack-talking officials on Twitch comes with a cost.

Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown learned this the hard way.

The NBA announced Tuesday, May 5 that Brown has been fined $50,000 for comments he made during a Twitch livestream Sunday, May 3, one day after the Celtics fell in Game 7 of the first round of the NBA playoffs.

NBA executive vice president, head of basketball operations James Jones announced the fine in a statement.

Brown expressed his displeasure about several specific plays from Boston’s 109-100 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers and insinuated that he was being officiated differently from his competitors.

“They clearly had an agenda, maybe because I spoke so critically of them in the regular season,” Brown said during the livestream. “I actually spoke to some refs, and they told me there’s an agenda going on each game, every time Jaylen puts his arm up, just call it.”

Brown said that it was a simple basketball play that several other players do.

“Philly took advantage of that and the officiating and it cost us to some degree,” he added.

During the livestream, Brown even replayed film of the plays in question and also called out 76ers center Joel Embiid by name, accusing him of embellishing contact to get to the line.

“Flopping has ruined our league,” Brown said. “Joel Embiid is a great player. One of the best bigs in basketball history. Flops. He knows it.”

The first-round elimination was Boston’s earliest exit in the postseason since 2021.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NBA punishes Jaylen Brown for comments about refs

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers didn’t just talk about needing more from their pass rush this offseason; they acted on it. And in doing so, they may have put former Day 2 pick Chris Braswell firmly on the roster bubble as he enters his third season.

After an inconsistent 2025 campaign rushing the passer, Tampa Bay made it clear that the production off the edge simply wasn’t good enough. Even with Haason Reddick missing multiple games, the opportunity was there for someone to step up and claim a larger role. Braswell, however, never capitalized. Rather than establishing himself as the clear “next man up,” he remained a rotational piece, failing to flash in a majority of games. That lack of progression has now been met with real competition.

The Buccaneers signed veteran Al-Quadin Muhammad in free agency, bringing in a player who can provide steady, reliable snaps and benefited from playing with Aidan Hutchinson, but still produced 10 sacks. Then, they doubled down in the draft by selecting Rueben Bain Jr., a true blue-chip edge defender whose physicality, burst, and relentless motor fit exactly what this defense has been missing.

When you stack the room now, the picture becomes clear and concerning for Braswell. Yaya Diaby continues to trend upward as a foundational piece. Muhammad adds veteran stability. Bain brings fresh upside and energy. Anthony Nelson is back as a key rotational piece. That likely leaves Braswell battling from the outside looking in, potentially slotted as low as OLB5 on the depth chart.

Braswell still has the physical tools that made him an early pick.

His ability to convert speed to power and hold the edge against the run are real traits. But at this stage, traits alone won’t be enough. The Bucs have made it clear they’re prioritizing production and consistency. Training camp and preseason will be critical. Braswell will need to show growth as a pass rusher, prove he can be trusted in run defense, and carve out a role on special teams to boost his value. Because now he’s competing to stay on the roster.

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Chris Braswell facing an uphill battle with the Bucs in 2026

The Athletics have been one of the biggest surprises of this young MLB season.

The A's, a young team themselves, were assumed to be a decent to good team, possibly flirting with the wild card. Nobody saw a division-leading team in the fold.

It's still early so there's nothing to get overly excited about. But give credit where credit is due. The A's might not be in Oakland anymore, but they have ballers with them.

Shea Langeliers, 28, one of the team's many young bright stars, was placed on the paternity list, the team announced Monday, May 4. Langeliers is tied for eighth in home runs with 10, currently more than Shohei Ohtani (6), Cal Raleigh (7), Bryce Harper (8) and Pete Alonso (6).

Last year's AL Rookie of the Year Nick Kurtz has hit five home runs. Carlos Cortes and Tyler Soderstrom are tied with four, while Brent Rooker and Lawrence Butler have three apiece. Max Muncy and Jacob Wilson have two homers each.

As a team, the A's entered play on Tuesday, May 5 ranking within the top 15 of nearly every offensive category including batting average, hits, runs and walks.

There were early questions about their pitching, which would be the tale of the A's season, and early on its been sufficient as is the A's record out there in West Sacramento. ESPN gave the A's a "B" through the first month of baseball.

HOW ABOUT THE GIANTS? San Francisco dropping to bottom of the power rankings.

Athletics MLB power rankings

Here's what sports experts are saying about the A's through the first month of the 2026 MLB season:

USA TODAY Sports: 15th out of 30

Gabe Lacques writes: "They depart Yolo County atop the AL West as six-game Eastern swing looms."

MLB.com: 13th out of 30

Will Leitch writes: "Nick Kurtz’s walk streak ended at 20 games on Saturday against the Guardians, but the funny thing about a walk streak ending is that you can do a whole bunch of other good stuff when you are not walking: Kurtz went 2-for-5 with an RBI. He has also reached base in 28 straight games, which, after all, is the point."

The Athletic: T-14th out of 30 (with Toronto Blue Jays)

Zack Meisel writes: "The A’s offense was supposed to hum, so it’s tempting to choose Aaron Civale, who posted a 3.23 ERA in his first six starts to stabilize the rotation and keep the club afloat in the AL West. But Langeliers has blossomed into one of the league’s most underrated players. Through April, he recorded a .974 OPS and was tied for the league lead in hits. He logged a 1.018 OPS in the second half last year, and in case you needed further proof, it appears that surge was no fluke."

CBS Sports: 13th out of 30

Matt Snyder writes: "Man, the three true outcomes are strong with Nick Kurtz, aren't they? He's up to 50 strikeouts with 34 walks and five home runs. That means 58.1% of his plate appearances result in no ball in the field of play. (I promise next week won't be another Kurtz comment)."

NBC Sports: 13th out of 30

D.J. short writes: "We all know about Shea Langeliers’ prodigious power, but did you know that he’s tied for the major league lead with 45 hits? The A’s backstop slugged two homers on Saturday (his wife Raegan’s birthday) and he became a dad on Sunday after his wife gave birth to a baby boy. Are you ready for Langeliers with dad strength?"

Bleacher Report: 11th out of 30

Kerry Miller writes: "If the A's are going to continue to hang around as a postseason candidate, they need to figure out how to pitch in West Sacramento. Heading into Sunday, they had a 6.35 ERA and .875 OPS against at home compared to 3.14 and .650, respectively, on the road. But Aaron Civale did give them a quality start (against his former team) on Sunday to keep that record above .500. Civale also went five shutout innings in Tuesday's home start against Kansas City."

ESPN: 16th out of 30 (as of Apr. 30)

Buster Olney writes: "Nick Kurtz's camp turned down a big contract offer in the offseason, and when he got off to a slow start, evaluators wondered if that decision was initially weighing on him. But no matter the reason, he is getting back to being one of the big damage hitters in the AL, patiently waiting out opposing pitchers and capitalizing when he gets pitches to hit. Kurtz has drawn walks in 18 straight games, with five homers."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Athletics MLB power rankings through a month of 2026 MLB season

Tennessee (32-17, 11-13 SEC) defeated Presbyterian (10-39, 6-12 Big South), 8-1, on Tuesday at Lindsey Nelson Stadium.

Nic Abraham started for Tennessee and pitched two innings. He totaled 26 pitches, including 19 strikes.

Ethan Baiotto (3-0) pitched 2.2 innings in relief for the Vols, earning his third win. He recorded two strikeouts and 30 pitches (20 strikes) against eight batters.

Tennessee's offense totaled 10 hits in the contest. Levi Clark, Blake Grimmer, Trent Grindlinger and Garrett Wright hit one home run each for the Vols.

Tennessee will host a three-game SEC series beginning on Friday against Texas (6:30 p.m. EDT, SEC Network+). Game 2 between the Vols and Longhorns is slated for Saturday at 6 p.m. EDT (SEC Network+). A series finale will take place May 10 at noon EDT (ESPN2).

The SEC Tournament will be contested May 19-24 at Hoover Metropolitan Stadium in Hoover, Alabama. The NCAA Tournament will open with regional play May 29.

Follow Vols Wire on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).

This article originally appeared on Vols Wire: Vols defeat Presbyterian baseball ahead of Texas series

Last chosen, first signed.

New Denver Broncos linebacker Red Murdock agreed to terms on a four-year rookie contract on Tuesday. The news was first reported by 850 KOA's Benjamin Albright. Murdock's contract is worth $4.503 million with a $122,000 signing bonus.

Murdock was the 257th and final player selected in the 2026 NFL draft, earning the title of "Mr. Irrelevant." Murdock (6-1, 232 pounds) was a force to be reckoned with for Buffalo in the MAC during his four-year college career. Murdock set a new FBS record with 17 forced fumbles, breaking the record of former Bulls all-star Khalil Mack.

Murdock is the first of Denver's seven drafted rookies to sign his first pro contract, ahead of reporting to Broncos rookie minicamp later this week. It is anticipated that the other rookies will follow in short order, making them officially members of the team.

Denver began the offseason program on Monday, with organized team activities scheduled to begin in June. After that, fans will get to sell all the club's rookies, including Murdock, at training camp later this summer.

Social: Follow Broncos Wire on Facebook and Twitter/X! Did you know: These 25 celebrities are Broncos fans.

This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: Denver Broncos news: LB Red Murdock signing 4-year rookie contract

It might seem odd to suggest an English club reaching a Champions League final have been in danger of going under the radar - but that has almost been the case for Arsenal this year.

Such has been the immense pressure piled upon Mikel Arteta's side to end their 22-wait for a Premier League title, their remarkable unbeaten run to the European showpiece in Budapest has arguably not got the credit it deserves.

Bukayo Saka's first-half tap-in gave the Gunners a 1-0 win over Atletico Madrid in Tuesday's semi-final second leg, securing a 2-1 aggregate victory.

In truth, while their display at Emirates Stadium was not necessarily vintage, some of Arsenal's best performances of the season have come in Europe.

The Gunners remain the only unbeaten team left in the Champions League, defeating teams like Bayern Munich, Inter Milan and Sporting along the way.

There has been a desperation to win the league - which, indeed, they could well go on to do as well after Manchester City's draw at Everton 24 hours before this semi-final.

But there has been a quiet ruthlessness in Arsenal's European games - rarely troubled, rarely in danger of going out.

"I don't think you can underestimate what we have done in this competition up to this point," midfielder Declan Rice told Amazon Prime.

"We have every right to celebrate that moment. The most prestigious competition in club football. We are just trying to soak it all in.

"We knew coming into the game what was at stake. If you can't get up for that, then you can't get up for any game of football.

"When we went 1-0 up, I knew we were going to win. I could feel something special building."

The Arsenal supporters welcomed the team bus with flares and chants - the first time that has happened at the stadium - setting the tone and atmosphere for what Arteta described as "an incredible night".

"We made history again together," said Arteta. "I cannot be happier, prouder for everybody that's involved in this football club. The manner that we [were] received outside the stadium was special and unique.

"The atmosphere, our support has created the energy, the way they managed every ball with us... I never felt that in the stadium [before].

"We knew how much it meant to everybody... the boys did an incredible job and after 20 years and a second time in our history, we are back in the Champions League final."

• Arsenal reach Champions League final for first time in 20 years
• UCL Debrief: Arsenal progress to Champions League final

The stats behind Arsenal's run to Budapest

In recent weeks, Arsenal have been finding a way to win as the pressure mounts at the business end of the season.

After the 3-0 win against Fulham at the weekend, however, the Gunners' squad seems rejuvenated.

That performance came at a perfect time before this semi-final, with their win against Atletico completing an undefeated run to the final - with Arsenal conceding just six goals along the way.

When asked if he was proud of that record, Arteta said: "Yes, because we know how difficult and challenging every opponent is at this level.

"Atletico are an incredible team, the way they compete, the solution they have, the answer they have to everything that you try to do to them immediately, it's incredible.

"The reason that they've been there, they've done an outstanding job, and the margins are so small, and tonight they go for us."

Here's how the Gunners reached the final:

• After going unbeaten in 14 games in the Champions League, Arsenal are now on their longest-ever undefeated run in the competition, overtaking a 13-game streak between March 2005 and April 2006
• Arsenal have reached the Champions League final for the first time since 2006 - the longest period between European Cup/Champions League finals by a team in the competition since Atletico Madrid in 2014 (40 years), and longest by an English side since Liverpool in 2005 (also 20 years)
• Arsenal have kept a clean sheet in nine of their 14 games, more than any other side in the competition.

Historic double on the cards for Gunners

After City dropped points at Everton, the Premier League title race is now in the Gunners' hands.

It is only two weeks since Arsenal suffered back-to-back defeats in the league, but after finding a way past Atletico as well as having a five-point lead at the top of the table, momentum is fully behind them.

"Where this club has come from over the last few years - things that hurt you as a player," said Rice, alluding to Arsenal's three successive second-placed finishes in the league.

"The manager has taken full control. We have kept building - we have kept pushing each other.

"This competition and the Premier League. We have gone full throttle. We have found ourselves in a good position with less than a month to go. Sunday now is a massive one."

Arteta made the big call to keep 19-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly in midfield for just his second start in that position for the senior side, in a campaign during which minutes have been hard to come by for the youngster.

Striker Viktor Gyokeres, who scored twice at the weekend, also played a massive part in Saka's winning goal and his performance was one of the best since he has been at the club.

Rice, who has been one of Arsenal's standout players this season and was awarded the player of the match award against Atletico, believes the Gunners have now "turned a corner" and are back to their best.

"We went through a stage where we weren't performing at our best. We were a bit sloppy in our play, but we have found a new way to play again," he said.

"When you have got confidence in football it is everything. I know everyone is focused."

Arteta has been trying to transform Emirates Stadium into a hostile environment as he looks to make the most of any marginal gain he can to bring silverware to north London.

With many saying it was the best atmosphere they have heard inside the ground, all that is missing is trophies to match the fans' feelings.

"That box is ticked, but now we're going to the level that I think a top club that wants to be fighting consistently for the highest trophies [needs]... and we have to maintain it," added Arteta.

• Latest Arsenal news, analysis and fan views
• Ask about Arsenal - what do you want to know?

The Knicks aren’t letting one blowout victory over the Philadelphia 76ers give them a big head — no pun intended.

They are fully expecting the Sixers to bounce back from a 39-point loss in Game 1 in an attempt to right their wrongs at Madison Square Garden in Game 2 on Wednesday.

“It’s pretty easy because yesterday is irrelevant. The only thing that matters right now is the present,” Josh Hart said after practice in Tarrytown on Tuesday. “We got to make sure we’re focused, have good attention to detail, make sure we’re prepared for tomorrow. “

The Sixers had just one day of rest following an emotional Game 7 to close-out the Boston Celtics in the first round, while the Knicks enjoyed three days off in-between games after handling the Atlanta Hawks in six.

Hart doesn’t believe the Sixers have thrown remotely close to their best punch.

“You know, that’s a good team. Obviously, they had an emotional Game 7, and I don’t know what their travel schedule was like and all that, but I’m sure they probably didn’t even go home. They probably went straight here,” he said. “They had physical and exhausting series in travel. So, you know, they’re gonna try to get their legs under them and come out with energy tomorrow. So we gotta make sure we don’t just match that, but exceed it.”

Miles McBride agrees the Knicks have to flush their landslide results from Game 1.

“Man, give God the glory. Can’t take it for granted being here. We’ve been here. We’ve lost. We’ve been up. We’ve been down,” he said after practice on Tuesday. “This is an experienced group, so we just can’t take it for granted. We’re locked in.”

Regardless, NBA fans and pundits alike are picking the Knicks to run through the East, even if they’re to get past the Sixers with ease and meet the Detroit Pistons in the conference finals. Hart’s not buying into narrative, even if his confidence is sky-high after cruising to four straight playoff victories.

“That stuff doesn’t matter. [For] Philly, Boston was a favorite in their last series, and [Philly] came back from down 3-1, you know what I mean? So, like, being the favorite means literally nothing. Every game you have to come in with a focus and attention to detail. And if you don’t do that, you can lose anybody in this league if you do that,” he said. “We feel like we can beat anybody, but it’s that mentality that you have to go out there and be present every single day. Not worried about the past, because that’s irrelevant. Not worried about what the future holds, because you have no idea. It’s about us being in the present.

“So we don’t really care too much about being favorites or All-Stars, All-NBA, and all, because at the end of the day, none of that really matters. And none of that matters if you win. No one remembers the leading scorer or how many All-Stars you had or how many All-NBA [honors]. They remember you being a champion, and that’s obviously the goal.”

MAX ATTACK

If the Knicks are going to replicate their success from Game 1, it’ll start and end with Sixers’ All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey. The Knicks held Maxey to just three-of-nine shooting for 13 points and two assists with four turnovers in 27 minutes of play in Game 1.

“I feel like the whole team was just locked in, honestly,” McBride said of defending the All-star guard. “Mikal [Bridges] started off on him really well, and then I came in, but there were times where other guys were matched up with him, and all of our antennas are up just guarding him as a team.”

The 25-year-old Sixers star averaged 28 points over his last 10 regular season games against the Knicks and averaged 29.8 points in the six games played through the 2024 Eastern Conference quarterfinals. Hart harped on Bridges being key in stopping Maxey’s scoring going forward.

“That was huge. Both of those guys [Mikal and Deuce] obviously are blessed enough athletically to be able to keep up with him, use their physicality, use their length to their advantage,” he said. “Maxey obviously is an offense unto himself, being able to break out and transition. You know, he’s tough [to guard], so they did an amazing job on him and have to continue it.”

CONDOLENCES

Mike Brown extended his condolences to Sixers’ head coach Nick Nurse, who was excused from team practice on Tuesday to attend the funeral of his older brother, Steve, who passed away unexpectedly ahead of Game 6 of the Sixers-Celtics series.

“I heard about his brother, and I’d like to pass my condolences along to Nick Nurse and his family, his brother’s family and all their friends. Life is precious,” said Brown. “You don’t wish that upon anybody. So I’d like to pass along my condolences to him and his family while they’re going through these times.”

Not everyone was over the moon that Victor Wembanyama broke the NBA playoff record for most blocks in a game during Game 1 of the conference semifinals between the San Antonio Spurs and Minnesota Timberwolves, Monday, May 4.

The 2026 Defensive Player of the Year finished with 12 blocks on the night, passing the previous mark by two. He also was one swat shy of Dwight Howard’s record for blocks in one half of a playoff game in what ended up being a triple-double performance with 11 points and 15 rebounds.

A day after the remarkable outing in San Antonio, members of the Timberwolves decried Wembanyama’s final stats after even they they earned a 104-102 road win. After coaches and players looked at the game tape, they came to the conclusion that several of Wembanyama’s blocks were not actually blocks, but uncalled goaltending.

“Obviously, he had a historic night, but when we looked at ‘em, at least four of ‘em were goaltending, maybe even a fifth,” Minnesota head coach Chris Finch told reporters Tuesday, May 5. “To me, it’s a little alarming that none of ‘em were called.”

HIGHLIGHTS: Timberwolves edge Spurs in Anthony Edwards' return from injury

Timberwolves center and Wembanyama’s fellow Frenchman Rudy Gobert agreed that not all of the blocks should have registered as such on the box score.

“He fouled me on the first one,” Gobert told reporters. “But I mean, if you look at them, probably three or four (goaltends).”

Finch continued by saying the game officials should have “heightened awareness” of Wembanyama, “a generational shot-blocker” and his style of play. He noted that if Wembanyama, who is known as “the Alien,” had the estimated four goaltends called instead of blocks, that would add up to eight points for the Timberwolves.

“You know the value of eight points in an NBA game? It’s massive,” he said. “That’s also 33 percent of his blocks were goaltending, uncalled. If I were to give you a 33 percent raise, you’d like that, right? That’s a huge number.”

NBA PLAYOFF BRACKET: Scores, schedule, odds for conference semifinals

Finch assured that his squad, which includes four-time All-Star Anthony Edwards, isn’t fazed by the disparity. The conference semifinals continue with Game 2 Wednesday night in San Antonio.

“We’re gonna keep coming,” he said. “And we got to make some better decisions in how we attack the rim. All credit to the guys for not being discouraged.”

Gobert showed how the team was keeping a lighthearted attitude.

“I wish I had that type of treatment, too,” he laughed with reporters.

Victor Wemanyama Game 1 highlights

Watch extended highlights of Wembayama's historic triple-double on May, 4, 2026

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Timberwolves' Chris Finch, Rudy Gobert question Wembanyama blocks

MORRISTOWN, N.J. – Khamzat Chimaev might not be a middleweight titleholder much longer, win or lose at UFC 328.

While he's indicated light heavyweight is on his mind, Chimaev (15-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) has Sean Strickland (30-7 MMA, 17-7 UFC) in front of him at 185 pounds Saturday as the two headline the event at Prudential Center in Newark.

When asked Tuesday, Chimaev indicated the bout could be his last in the weight class – though he did so with a chuckle.

"I hope so," Chimaev told MMA Junkie and other reporters. "I like to eat pizza. We will see."

Things are unclear atop the light heavyweight division at the moment, as newly-crowned champion Carlos Ulberg suffered a torn ACL in his title-clinching victory over Jiri Prochazka at UFC 327 in April.

Khamzat Chimaev says he wants #UFC328 to be his final middleweight fight: "I hope so."

(via @MikeBohn) pic.twitter.com/Hw2WmGjuaG

— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) May 5, 2026

The promotion has yet to reveal its plans about whether an interim title will be implemented. It's possible Chimaev could be one half of the equation when the time comes, but for now, he's focused on Sean Strickland and Sean Strickland only.

"I don't know," Chimaev said. "I hope (Ulberg) gets a fast recovery. We will see. I'm not so much focused on (what's) over Strickland. He's a tough fighter, good fighter, but we take away all this sh*t he's saying, he's a good fighter. I just go focus on him, beat this guy, and then we go for the next. It's always there. It doesn't matter."

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Khazmat Chimaev hopes UFC 328 is last middleweight fight

In the fifth round of the 2026 NFL draft, the Indianapolis Colts selected Florida defensive end George Gumbs Jr. Let's take a closer look at Gumbs' game with what a few draft experts had to say in their final scouting reports.

Over 136 pass rush snaps last season, Gumbs generated 13 pressures and three sacks. The year prior, he logged 26 pressures and five sacks across 188 pass rush snaps. He's taken advantage of his opportunities and been a willing run defender.

Beginning his college career at Northern Illinois as a wideout, Gumbs is still relatively new to the position, but he's established a strong foundation for himself, while possessing untapped potential that the Colts will attempt to unlock.

Gumbs measures in at 6-04 and weighs 245 pounds. He had an impressive NFL combine performance.

Dane Brugler, The Athletic

"Gumbs is more talented than skilled in his edge duties, but he is explosive, physical and selfless against the run. Because of his resiliency and competitive makeup, he is a worthy developmental option."

Lance Zierlein, NFL.com

"Late bloomer with work to do to convert potential into production. Gumbs’ attitude and work ethic have propelled him through multiple position changes (WR/TE/Edge) and a successful leap from Northern Illinois to Florida. Everything he does as a run defender and pass rusher should improve with additional technique work. He’s tough and competitive versus the run, but the ceiling might be average. As a rusher, he’s collected a catalog of openers and counters but is still working on their setup and execution to get to quarterbacks. He has an eventual-starter ceiling with an average-backup floor, but his traits and mentality make him worthy of a Day 3 pick."

Gumbs could find himself competing for rotational snaps, but most of his playing time in Year 1 could come on special teams.

This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 2026 NFL draft: Scouting reports on new Colts' DE George Gumbs

When the Arizona Cardinals drafted running back Jeremiyah Love third overall in the 2026 NFL draft last month, the running back room changed and shifted projections for the final roster.

A player the Cardinals once were counting on as a key cog in their offense is now a trade candidate.

RB Trey Benson, trade candidate

There have been no reports of the Cardinals shopping Benson, but his spot on the roster seems unlikely for Week 1.

Three backs are destined for the roster:

• Jeremiyah Love
• Tyler Allgeier
• James Conner

Love was drafted third overall. Allgeier was given and guaranteed $7 million in 2026 to sign with the Cardinals. Conner's deal was restructured but almost all his $2.35 million salary is guaranteed.

Who will be the fourth running back? It is a battle between Benson, Bam Knight and Corey Kiner.

Benson, a former third-round pick who many believed could turn into a starter, is coming off his second straight year that ended with an injury. Knight ended up a starter after Conner and Benson got hurt, and he also is a good kick returner.

Benson doesn't make a ton of money in 2026 (more than $1.3 million), but a fourth running back needs to contribute on special teams. In two NFL season, he has as many special teams snaps as I do (zero).

He has top-end speed. He has averaged 5.4 yards per attempt in his career. He has good size. He has value and upside.

As the season approaches, he might be able to be dealt for a late Day 3 pick.

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

This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: Arizona Cardinals RB Trey Benson now a trade candidate after NFL draft

Emotional but happy.

That’s the state of Stefon Diggs, the NFL wide receiver who was found not guilty May 5 in a case brought against him by his former chef who said he choked and slapped her in December 2025.

Happy because a jury returned a not guilty verdict on both counts – felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault and battery – Diggs faced. Emotional because, according to Mitchell Shuster – a member of Diggs’ defense team – Diggs was falsely accused of committing the “serious” crime of domestic violence.  

“Domestic violence is a very, very serious issue in this country and it’s disconcerting when people use it as a sword and manufacture claims in an attempt to extract money,” Shuster said. “I believe the jury saw through that today and we are very, very pleased with this result.”

Diggs’ defense team, Shuster said, wanted the trial to progress so that a verdict could be quickly reached. The jury deliberated for hardly 90 minutes and never saw any evidence from the prosecution aside from the word of the alleged victim. The defense called multiple witnesses who testified they spent time with Adams in the days following the alleged attack. All maintained that Adams never mentioned the attack and showed no sigs of physical abuse to her neck or face.

One of Diggs' attorneys, Andrew Kettlewell, pointed the jury to deleted text messages from a series of messages Adams showed the police officer to whom she initially reported the incident.

“There were a lot of missteps in this case,” said Shuster, referring to the prosecution, which relied entirely on the word of Mila Adams.  

Adams told police on Dec. 16 that Diggs entered her bedroom and choked and slapped her in his home on Dec. 2, 2025. On the stand during the first day of the trial May 4, Adams said Diggs “smacked me with an open hand.” She added that she struggled to breathe as Diggs allegedly wrapped his arm around her neck and choked her. Diggs was charged with strangulation and assault and battery on Dec. 29; nearing the end of his 2025 season with the New England Patriots, who advanced to the Super Bowl. Diggs vehemently denied the accusation from the beginning.

There was never a consideration to settle, Shuster added.

“Stefon was not going to settle this case,” he said. “He was falsely accused and he wanted everyone to know that.

“We were always cautiously optimistic that this would be the result.”

Having his day in court was important to Diggs, said Shuster, who was “thankful” the four-time Pro Bowl selection insisted on his day in court – and called out those who attempt to extort the famous.

“I’m thankful for someone like Stefon Diggs, who insisted that he would get his day in court so that his truth could be heard – and it was heard,” Shuster said. “No assault ever occurred. … People have to stop targeting professional athletes and trying to extract money. They have a target on their back and it’s hard enough doing what they do. And this has to stop. People should focus on real victims from domestic violence, and allegations like this do a tremendous disservice to those who are afflicted and impacted by causes like this. It’s been an honor to represent Stefon and could not be prouder of him that he insisted we see this through and the truth be told.”

Diggs has been impacted personally, but also professionally, Shuster said. The attorney said he expects Diggs to sign with a team “imminently,” as the Patriots released him in March.

“People look at professional athletes like they don’t have feelings and they don’t have emotions and they don’t have cares. Well they do,” Shuster said. “And he does and he’s not shy about expressing that. Our hope is that this is now behind him, that he will get signed by a team. Any team that signs him will be lucky to have him. We are very pleased and happy that Stefon will continue on.”

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Stefon Diggs was determined not to settle case with ex-chef. Here's why

The Chicago Blackhawks will pick fourth in the NHL draft, their fourth consecutive year with a top-four pick.

The Hawks entered Tuesday’s draft lottery with the second-highest odds (13.5%) of landing the No. 1 pick, which wound up going to the Toronto Maple Leafs (8.5%). The San Jose Sharks then won the second draw, dropping the Vancouver Canucks — who had the highest odds — to No. 3 and the Hawks to No. 4.

The Hawks already have the youngest roster in the NHL and will get even younger with the arrival of the new draftee. Forwards Ivar Stenberg of Sweden and Gavin McKenna of Penn State, both 18, are the consensus top prospects in the draft, which will take place June 26-27 in Buffalo, N.Y.

With both players likely off the board when the Hawks are on the clock, they could target Brantford Bulldogs center Caleb Malhotra, considered the third-best forward prospect. While Hawks general manager Kyle Davidson has drafted a long line of forwards in recent years, the pending free agency of Ilya Mikheyev and the uncertain status of André Burakovsky, whom the Hawks might buy out, could open roster spots.

Malhotra, 17, made noise with a dominant showing in the Ontario Hockey League playoffs, totaling 26 points (13 goals, 13 assists) in 15 games to add to his regular-season total of 84 points in 67 games. He could give the Hawks another immediate scoring threat, either adding to their depth at center or potentially flipping to a wing.

Other top forward prospects are Windsor Spitfires left wing Ethan Belchetz, Swedish center/right wing Viggo Björck, Boston College left wing Oscar Hemming, Boston University center Tynan Lawrence and Finnish center Oliver Suvanto.

Having used high picks in recent years on Artyom Levshunov (No. 2 in 2024) and Kevin Korchinski (No. 7 in 2022), the Hawks are less likely to take a defenseman at No. 4. This draft class has several highly rated blue-liners, however, so the Prince George Cougars’ Carson Carels, the Soo Greyhounds’ Chase Reid, Latvia’s Alberts Šmits and North Dakota’s Keaton Verhoeff could be options when the Hawks are on the clock.

The Big Ten has been home to the kings of college football each of the past three seasons, and the outlook is once again looking promising for the conference heading into the 2026 season. Penn State may not be ready to give Ohio State or Indiana a serious run for their money in 2026, but the Nittany Lions are revamping the entire program under the leadership of new head coach Matt Campbell. That makes for a bit of an unknown for the Nittany Lions approaching the 2026 season. Is Penn State a bit of a wild card in the conference this season?

Now that spring football practices are in the rearview mirrors around the Big Ten this year, all eyes are shifting toward the fall. USA TODAY Sports took a crack at power ranking the Big Ten following spring practices. Perhaps to be expected, Penn State misses out on the top five; the Nittany Lions rank No. 6 in the post-spring Big Ten power rankings shared by Paul Myerberg of USA TODAY.

"The schedule is easy enough to put Penn State’s floor at eight wins in Matt Campbell’s debut," Myerberg notes, referring to Penn State's 2026 football schedule. "The Nittany Lions miss Ohio State, Oregon, Indiana and Iowa while drawing the Trojans at home."

Ohio State takes the top spot in the post-spring power rankings. Defending Big Ten and national champion Indiana checks in at No. 3, with Oregon taking the No. 2 spot. USC and Michigan, both teams appearing on Penn State's schedule this fall, are the other two teams ranked ahead of the Nittany Lions.

Kevin McGuire is the lead writer for Nittany Lions Wire, part of the USA TODAY Network. Follow him on BlueSky, Threads or any of these other platforms.

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