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LeBron James Reportedly Ready To 'Move On' From The Lakers Amid Alleged Rift With Its Governor

LeBron James
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LeBron James' time with the Los Angeles Lakers will reportedly come to an end this summer amid rumors of his soured relationship with the team's governor, Jeanie Buss.

The NBA star has since reacted to rumors about their strained relationship, saying the claims don't "bother" him.

LeBron James also asserted that he has remained on the same page with Jeanie Buss despite the wild speculations plaguing them.

LeBron James And Lakers To Go Their Separate Ways, Insider Reveals

LeBron James
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LeBron James would reportedly not continue his playing career with the Los Angeles Lakers after this summer.

According to the New York Post, NBA insider Jake Fischer noted in a Monday livestream that "the Lakers are ready to move on from LeBron James and I think LeBron James is ready to move on from the Lakers as well."

Fischer placed the timeline for the split to be around June, adding that "that's kind of the foregone sentiment in Los Angeles right now about what's to come this summer."

He also claimed the team is now looking to build around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves after their relationship with James ends.

James has remained a stellar performer for the Lakers since he joined from the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2018. He has averaged 26.3 points, 8.0 assists, and 7.8 rebounds, also helping the team to the 2020 NBA championship.

The NBA Star Has Allegedly Endured Strained Ties With Jeanie Buss

LeBron James

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Rumors of James' potential exit from the Lakers come amid reports he has had to endure a strained relationship with Jeanie Buss, the governor of the franchise.

Amid a disappointing run of results for the Lakers in the closing stage of last year and early this year, ESPN claimed in an article that the governor has grown frustrated with the 4-time NBA champion.

The report also alleged that Buss had grown tired of James' "outsized ego" and did not like that he had been projected as the "savior" of the franchise when he arrived in 2018.

She was also wary of the "overt control" that James and Klutch Sports exerted on the organization at times.

Things Allegedly Worsened Between LeBron James And Jeanie Buss After The Russell Westbrook Trade

LeBron James

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The gap between James and Buss reportedly widened after the Lakers traded Russell Westbrook in July 2021, which seemingly backfired as the team went 33-49 and missed the playoffs at the time, causing James to wash his hands of his role in the acquisition.

According to the news outlet, the source claimed Buss didn't like his "lack of accountability" as well as the way he "shifted blame onto others" after the Westbrook deal.

Reports also claimed that when the team drafted his song Bronny in 2024, she felt James should be grateful, but he wasn't.

The NBA Legend Downplayed The Rumors About Him And Jeanie Buss

LeBron James

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Meanwhile, James has since downplayed the rumors suggesting he was at odds with Buss.

"Quite frankly, I don't really get involved in that or the reports or whatever the case may be," James said, per Fox News Digital.

According to the news outlet, he seemingly addressed some of the article's claims, saying he joined the Lakers 8 years ago to return it to its former glory.

"At the end of the day, when I came to this organization, my whole mindset was about restoring excellence," James said. "The things that I saw growing up with the Lakers — obviously, I didn't get an opportunity to watch Showtime, but I know the history."

He continued,  "Then the early 2000s with Shaq [O'Neal] and [Kobe Bryant], and then what Kobe did and those couple runs with him and Pau [Gasol]. So, my whole mindset was like, 'How can I get that feeling back to the Lakers organization?'"

"And then I was able to do that along with, you know, 14, 16 other guys winning the championship, bringing the championship here," James added.

LeBron James Says He Doesn't Care 'How Somebody Feels' About Him

LeBron James

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James also made it clear what matters to him, as Buss distanced herself from some of the claims the article made.

"Quite frankly, I don't really care about articles. I don't care about stories. I don't care about podcasts and all that type of sh-t. It don't bother me. I'm 41 years old, and I watch golf every day. I don't care about an article," he said.

"I don't care how somebody feels about me. If you know me personally, then you know what I'm about. These guys know what I'm about, and that's all that matters. I could care less how someone feels about me," James stated.

He added that it's okay for him and Buss not to talk often, but he has remained on the same page with her, adding that "it's always been a great partnership" between them.

Buss also addressed the reports, saying in a statement, "It's really not right, given all the great things LeBron has done for the Lakers, that he has to be pulled into my family drama."

"To say that it wasn't appreciated is just not true and completely unfair to him," she added.

Disney Adventure Claims Panama Canal Record

The Panama Canal has recorded a milestone with the inaugural transit of Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Adventure, on February 2, 2026. According to a statement by Panama Canal Authority, this is the largest passenger vessel by capacity and gross tonnage ever to transit the interoceanic waterway. This new ship measures 342 meters in length and...

McCaffrey Brothers Put Sibling Rivalry On Display During Raising Cane’s Showdown

Christian and Luke McCaffrey facing off at Raising Cane's
Raising Cane's

Christian McCaffrey may be deep in offseason mode, but on Monday, February 2, the San Francisco 49ers star was right at home behind the counter at Raising Cane's, and he brought family with him. Ahead of Pro Bowl Week festivities, McCaffrey clocked in at the brand's Colma-area restaurant alongside his younger brother, Luke McCaffrey, for a brother-versus-brother "Raising Cane's Challenge" that blended football competition, fanfare, and Cane's signature chicken. The appearance comes as Christian prepares to headline the 2026 Pro Bowl Games in San Francisco, which will take place just ahead of Super Bowl LX, also hosted in the Bay Area, putting the 49ers star at the center of one of the NFL's biggest weeks.

Sibling Rivalry Runs Deep As Christian And Luke McCaffrey Take Competition From Childhood To The NFL

Christian and Luke McCaffrey holding footballs at Raising Cane's
Raising Cane's

The McCaffrey brothers went head-to-head in skills challenges, served Box Combos to cheering fans in the drive-thru, and posed for content as Caniacs packed the restaurant. But for Christian and Luke, the competitive energy wasn't new. In fact, it was very familiar.

"We always wanted to play in the NFL," Christian McCaffrey said during the press event, in which The Blast was in attendance. "I just wanted to make it to the NFL, and now if I have a brother playing at the same time, be able to train with him and do all those things in the offseason together… It's such a blessing."

That bond was forged early. "Everything we did, we did together," he added. "Having four boys in our family, it was two-on-two everything."

Luke McCaffrey echoed the sentiment, calling the moment surreal. "We grew up kind of pretending to do this, playing in the NFL, going against each other," he said. "It's cool when you get here and realize you never got to stop doing that."

The Raising Cane's Challenge Ended With Bragging Rights

Christian and Luke McCaffrey Work Pre-Pro Bow Shift at Raising Cane's facing off in cup stacking During Super Bowl Week

Raising Cane's

The brotherly competition doesn't stop there. Christian and Luke McCaffrey also faced off in a series of Raising Cane's–themed challenges that turned the restaurant into an unofficial arena, complete with bragging rights on the line.

First up was a fresh-squeezed lemonade challenge, where both McCaffrey brothers raced to see who could squeeze the most lemonade. Despite the intensity, the matchup ended in a dead heat.

Next came the cup-stacking challenge, and this is where Luke made his move. The Washington Commanders' wide receiver outpaced his older brother, stacking Cane's cups at lightning speed to secure a win in the competition.

But Christian wasn't done. The final challenge tasked each brother with drawing the Raising Cane's logo in under one minute, and this time, the 49ers star delivered. Christian's logo earned him the win, and with it, the overall victory, sealing the Raising Cane's Challenge in his favor.

Why Raising Cane's Made Sense

Christian and Luke McCaffrey Work Pre-Pro Bow Shift at Raising Cane's in the Bay Area During Super Bowl Week

Raising Cane's

Despite packed schedules, both brothers jumped at the chance to partner with Raising Cane's, and not just for the cause.

"We were just excited about the chicken," Christian joked, drawing laughs. "Now it's a double whammy."

Luke shared a personal Cane's memory from his rookie season. "Every single one of our away trips, I had to go get Raising Cane's," he said. "My car smelled like Cane's for a long time."

As for their orders? Luke always goes for the Caniac combo, no slaw, double toast, while Christian keeps it simple with the Box Combo.

Christian McCaffrey Opens Up About Being A Role Model

Christian and Luke McCaffrey holding up white boards with Raising Cane's logos

Raising Cane's

Seeing kids in McCaffrey jerseys is something the 49ers star doesn't take lightly. "It's huge," he said. "One of the greatest parts about playing professional sports is having an impact on the younger generation."

That sense of responsibility has only grown since becoming a father. Christian opened up about life with his wife, Olivia Culpo, and their six-month-old daughter. "Coming home is the best part of the day," he said. "Whether it was a good day or a bad day, you see her smile… it kind of takes away anything that happened."

He added, "Having a girl softened me up a little bit."

Christian McCaffrey Gears Up For The Pro Bowl

Christian and Luke McCaffrey at Raising Cane's

Raising Cane's

With the Pro Bowl Games and Super Bowl LX both set for San Francisco in 2026, McCaffrey's presence at this year's Raising Cane's event felt like an early preview of what's to come.

And if Monday was any indication, Christian McCaffrey is coming in hot.

First official renderings released for 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh

The National Football League, in partnership with VisitPITTSBURGH and the Steelers, have released the first official renderings of the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh.

The new renderings show a two-site Draft campus designed to showcase Pittsburgh’s landmarks, waterways and skyline, according to VisitPITTSBURGH.

The Draft Theater and Main Stage will be located outside of Acrisure Stadium on the North Shore. The Draft Theater will be a viewing area that will create a dramatic setting for pick selections and televised coverage, according to a release.

“We’re excited by the NFL’s release of renderings for the 2026 NFL Draft,” said Dan Rooney, Vice President of Business Development and Strategy for the Pittsburgh Steelers. “Football fans from around the world will see how Pittsburgh’s iconic landscape creates a natural amphitheater, providing the perfect setting for this world-class celebration of football – all in the heart of Western Pennsylvania – a region that holds a unique place in the history of the game.”

A part of the NFL Draft Experience, the league’s interactive fan festival, will be located at Point State Park. It will feature interactive activities, youth programming, food and beverage offerings and immersive NFL exhibits designed for fans of all ages.

“These renderings bring the 2026 NFL Draft vision to life in a way that is uniquely Pittsburgh,” said Peter O’Reilly, NFL Executive Vice President of Club Business, International and League Events. “From the North Shore to Point State Park, this campus design captures the city’s energy, authenticity, and deep-rooted connection to the game, while delivering an unforgettable experience for fans around the world.”

To connect the Draft Theater and the NFL Draft Experience, the Roberto Clemente Bridge will be closed to vehicle traffic and used as a pedestrian-only corridor. In addition, the Gateway Clipper Fleet will provide river transportation between the two sites in Downtown and the North Shore.

“The layout of the 2026 NFL Draft campus is intentionally designed to celebrate Pittsburgh’s sense of place,” said Jerad Bachar, President & CEO of VisitPITTSBURGH. “From the North Shore to Point State Park, across the Roberto Clemente Bridge and along the rivers, this Draft will showcase our city’s character, connectivity, and hospitality in a way only Pittsburgh can.”

The 2026 NFL Draft will take place April 23-25. VisitPITTSBURGH said 500,000 to 700,000 fans are expected to attend the Draft.

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Roger Goodell reveals when NFL will return to Ireland

This article originally appeared on SteelersNOW.com.

The Pittsburgh Steelers helped make NFL history during the 2025 season as they hosted the Minnesota Vikings in the first NFL regular season game ever played in Ireland. So when does the NFL plan to return to play in Ireland?

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell revealed hopefully within the next few years.

“We did have a wonderful time. Both clubs had a great time. I think our fans had a spectacular time,” Goodell said during his annual state of the NFL news conference ahead of the Super Bowl on Monday. “That game had more people come from the states from an international game than any game in our series.”

This season’s game in Ireland was a smashing hit. According to NFL Media, the Steelers-Vikings game averaged 7.9 million viewers (TV+Digital), making it the second-most NFL Network watched game ever.

Click here to read more from SteelersNOW.com.

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HIGHLIGHTS: Kewaunee remains unbeaten, taking down Bonduel in a thriller

KEWAUNEE, Wis. (WFRV) — Despite leading by as many as 10 points, Bonduel couldn’t pick up a road win over unbeaten Kewaunee. The Storm taking down the Bears 81-77, with Connor Kilgore leading the team in scoring with 19 points.

Bonduel, after starting the season 12-0, has now lost three of its last five games.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.

Record-Breaking Sales Launch For Oceania Sonata

Oceania Cruises said it had achieved record-breaking booking levels on January 28, 2026, the opening day of reservations for its newest ship, the Oceania Sonata. The company said that this surpassed the launch-day bookings of Oceania Cruises’ previous new ship, Oceania Allura, by 45 percent. “I’m absolutely thrilled by the exceptional results that Oceania Sonata...

The Best Ultra Slim Power Banks in 2026

Anker-Nano-Power-Bank

Ultra-slim magnetic power banks have become essential for users who need reliable charging without adding bulk. The latest models in 2026 focus on Qi2 certification, fast USB-C speeds, and form factors that complement modern smartphones. Here’s a closer look at some of the best options available right now.

Anker Nano Power Bank

Anker Nano Power Bank

Anker has unveiled the Nano Power Bank as the slimmest and most advanced model in the lineup so far. It measures just 0.34 inches thick, weighs 122g, and targets MagSafe-compatible iPhones from the iPhone 12 to iPhone 17 series. The power bank supports 15W Qi2-certified magnetic wireless charging and includes a two-way 20W USB-C port, all packed into a compact, pocket-friendly design.

It can charge an iPhone 17 Pro to 25% in around 34 minutes while staying comfortably cool, thanks to a graphene cooling system combined with dual NTC sensors that keep temperatures below 104°F. The skin-friendly back panel, anodized metal frame, and four color options give it a premium feel that matches its performance. It suits iPhone users who want reliable, stylish charging while on the move.

Baseus PicoGo AM31 Mini

Baseus PicoGo AM31 Mini

If hands-free use is a priority, the Baseus PicoGo AM31 Mini power bank checks every box. It’s smaller than a credit card at 3.4 x 2.3 x 0.45 inches and includes a built-in aluminum kickstand that works in both portrait and landscape orientations.

The AM31 supports 15W wireless charging and 20W wired charging over USB-C, using Tesla-grade battery cells paired with a triple-layer heat management system for consistent performance. Its liquid silicone finish, combined with an anodized aluminum body, gives it a premium look while improving durability.

The power bank features an 11N magnetic hold and full Qi2 certification, allowing it to securely snap onto iPhones as well as Android phones that support Qi2 magnetic charging.

Xiaomi Ultrathin Magnetic Power Bank

Xiaomi UltraThin magnetic power bank

The Xiaomi Ultrathin Magnetic Power Bank is an engineering feat, squeezing 5,000mAh into a mere 6mm chassis that weighs just 98g. Designed for extreme portability, it’s a natural fit for slim phones like the iPhone 17 Pro and Xiaomi 15 Ultra, matching their metallic aesthetics.

While it supports 15W wireless charging and an impressive 22.5W USB-C output, there’s a catch: it only delivers 7.5W of wireless power on iPhones due to the lack of Qi2 certification. That makes it best suited for Android users or those who value form factor above peak iPhone performance.

Baseus PicoGo Ultra-Slim

Baseus PicoGo Ultra-Slim Qi2 Magnetic Power Banks

Baseus offers two ultra-thin PicoGo models, giving users a choice between lighter 5,000mAh (4.6oz) and longer-lasting 10,000mAh (7.8oz) variants. Both support Qi2-certified 15W wireless and 20W+ wired charging, with a slick 0.3-0.5 inch slim body, card-size design, and liquid silicone + aluminum alloy housing.

The 10K version even bumps wired output to 27W, charging iPhones, iPads, and even some USB-C tablets efficiently. Available in four colors (Black, Grey, Pink, Titanium), these power banks stand out for their durability, thermal control, and long-lasting style.

Sharge AeroMag

Sharge AeroMag

The AeroMag series fuses luxury-grade materials with practical design. Both 5K (125g) and 10K (192g) models feature aerospace-grade anodized aluminum with graphene cooling, keeping the bank and your phone cool even during long calls or streaming sessions.

Certified with Qi2, the AeroMag hits 15W magnetic wireless and 20W wired output. Even better, it can charge two devices simultaneously, wireless for your phone and wired for your earbuds. With a premium finish and N52 magnet array for a shake-proof grip, this is the go-to for those who want power with polish.

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The post The Best Ultra Slim Power Banks in 2026 appeared first on Gizmochina.

Dodgers’ Edwin Diaz to Participate in World Baseball Classic, Represent Team Puerto Rico

Edwin Diaz celebrating with Team Puerto Rico in the 2023 World Baseball Classic.

Los Angeles Dodgers All-Star closer Edwin Diaz will play in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, per Primera Hora.

Diaz’s commitment to the tournament comes amid controversy among Puerto Rico and other Latin American counties in regards to the WBC, with leaders claiming the insurance decisions are unfair.

“In some ways, I think it’s a little bit unfair,” Joey Sola, Team Puerto Rico’s operations manager, said. “Especially when you are three days from submitting your final roster. Who in the world would think Lindor wasn’t on the (eligible) list? You wait until the last weekend to get an answer on Lindor? C’mon.

“It took us by surprise. I know the WBC isn’t in those decisions. It’s the insurance companies. But you have guys on other teams, they have an injury history and then I got guys on my roster who will be playing at the Double-A level with no (major-league) guarantee, no MLB invitation (to spring training), and they get flagged. And guys on other teams who can play in the WBC are earning $30 million per year. It’s kind of tough to understand it.”

2026 will be Diaz’s third WBC, having played in both 2017 and 2023. The All-Star tore his right patellar tendon in the 2023 tournament while celebrating Puerto Rico’s victory over the Dominican Republic. He went on to miss the entirety of the 2023 MLB season.

Edwin Diaz celebrating with Team Puerto Rico in the 2023 World Baseball Classic.
Mar 15, 2023; Miami, Florida, USA; Puerto Rico relief pitcher Edwin Diaz (39) reacts after defeating the Dominican Republic at LoanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

Will Edwin Diaz Be Back for the Regular Season?

The World Baseball Classic runs from March 5-17, so no matter how Team Puerto Rico performs, Diaz should be back in time for the beginning of the Dodgers’ regular season.

The All-Star, who signed a three-year, $69 million deal with the Dodgers this offseason, will be a key part of the roster for the upcoming year, and will look to stay healthy throughout the tournament so he can help is new team come April.

Diaz is entering his age-32 season and is coming off one of his best years in MLB in 2025. The right-hander featured in 62 games last season and pitched 66.1 innings, posting a 1.63 ERA while striking out 98 batters throughout the campaign.

Which Other Dodgers are Playing in the WBC?

Other than Diaz, five Dodgers are currently slated to play in the WBC. Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Shohei Ohtani headline a stacked Team Japan roster heading into the tournament as they look for their second consecutive title.

Will Smith will play catcher for Team USA in the tournament and will pair up with a familiar face in Clayton Kershaw, who shockingly announced his participation after retiring at the end of the 2025 MLB season.

The final player who has declared for the WBC is Hyeseong Kim, who will play for Team Korea.

More Dodgers can still feature in the upcoming tournament, though, as teams will announce their full rosters Thursday at 4:00 p.m. PT.

Port of Tokyo: Japan’s Leading Turnaround Port, Welcoming Cruise Ships at Two Terminals

Located in Japan’s capital, the Port of Tokyo is now poised to make a significant leap forward as a cruise ship hub. In 2025, Harumi Cruise Terminal opened at the Port of Tokyo, commencing the acceptance of cruise ships alongside Tokyo International Cruise Terminal. The Port of Tokyo serves as a marine gateway not only...

Carlos Alcaraz beats Novak Djokovic to become the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam

Carlos Alcaraz is the youngest man ever to complete a career Grand Slam after securing the Australian Open title against Novak Djokovic, who had never lost in his 10 previous finals at Melbourne Park.

The top-ranked Alcaraz dropped the first set Sunday as Djokovic went out hard in pursuit of a record 25th major title, but he dug deep to win 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5.

As he was leaving the court, he signed the lens of the TV camera with a note of recognition: “Job finished. 4/4 Complete.”

The 22-year-old Spaniard scrambled to retrieve shots that usually would be winners for Djokovic, and he kept up intense pressure on his 38-year-old rival. There were extended rallies where each player hit enough brilliant shots to usually win a game, with neither player willing to give an inch or concede.

Once he secured victory, Alcaraz let his racket slip out of his hand and fell to the ground on his back, putting his hands to his head.

He stayed there for a few seconds before going to the net to shake hands with Djokovic. Both players exchanged a few words and Djokovic smiled as he congratulated Alcaraz. The new champion then ran to hug his coaches in the courtside chairs and later his dad and other team members in the stands.

After paying tribute to Djokovic for being an inspiration, Alcaraz turned to his support team. He parted ways with longtime coach Juan Carlos Ferrero at the end of last season and Samuel Lopez stepped up to head the team.

“Nobody knows how hard I’ve been working to get this trophy. I just chased this moment so much,” Alcaraz said. The pre-season was a bit of a rollercoaster emotionally.

“We just did the right work, you were pushing me every day to do all the right things,” he added. “I’m just really grateful for everyone I have in my corner right now.”

Djokovic joked about this showdown setting up a rivalry over the next 10 years with Alcaraz, but then said it was only right to hand the floor over to the new champion.

“First and foremost, congratulations to an amazing tournament and amazing couple of weeks,” Djokovic said at the trophy presentation. “What you’ve been doing, the best word to describe is historic, legendary, so congratulations. I wish the best of luck in the rest of your career.”

Both players were coming off grueling five-set semifinal wins and showed phenomenal fitness, athleticism and stamina for just over three hours in pursuit of their own historic achievements.

Neither player was willing to relent on the big points — and there were many of them. In the end, Alcaraz was able to convert 5 of the 16 breakpoints he set up. Djokovic converted two of his six.

Djokovic’s push for an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam singles title has now been blocked by Alcaraz or Jannik Sinner for nine majors.

Djokovic edged Sinner in the semifinals and was aiming to be the oldest man to win a Grand Slam title in the Open era, but didn’t quite make it against Alcaraz.

Rafa in the house

Djokovic and Rafael Nadal played some epic matches, including the longest match ever at the Australian Open in a five-set final that lasted almost six hours in 2012.

Nadal was watching from the stands on Sunday night, and both players addressed the 22-time major winner.

“I want to speak to the legendary Rafa, who is on the stands,” Djokovic said. “Obviously, it feels very weird to see you there and not here, you know?

“But thank you for being present. It’s too many Spanish legends... It felt like it was two against one tonight, you know, it wasn’t fair, but OK.”

Alcaraz said it was a privilege: “I know you were watching me when I was like 15, 14 years old, so it’s been a long time. But, yeah, for me, it’s such an honor playing in front of you.”

One for the ages

At 22 years and 272 days, Alcaraz is the youngest man to complete a set of all four major singles titles. He broke the mark set by Don Budge in the 1938 French championships, when he was 22 years and 363 days.

Alcaraz now has seven major titles — his first in Australia along with two each at Wimbledon and the French and U.S. Opens.

He’s the ninth man to achieve the career Grand Slam, a list that also includes Djokovic, Nadal and Roger Federer.

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Gamblers fall 3-2 on Teddy Bear Toss Night

GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) – On Teddy Bear Toss Night, the Gamblers fell 3-2 to the Fighting Saints of Dubuque.

Check out the highlights of the game in the video above, and a look at the Teddy Bears on the ice below.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.

Red Bull Heavy Metal street snowboarding competition makes high-energy Pittsburgh debut despite cold

Despite bitterly cold temperatures, the Red Bull Heavy Metal street snowboarding competition made a high-energy debut in Pittsburgh.

The single-day, opening qualifier event saw 35 street snowboarders compete for a chance to ride with the pros in Red Bull Heavy Metal Boston on Feb. 21.

Channel 11 was there outside Acrisure Stadium for part of the action. We heard from some of the 5,000 total fans in attendance, who wouldn’t let the weather stop them from watching.

“I love my people from Pittsburgh showing up, showing out,” attendee Ronan Bray said. “I love my people from New Jersey and West Virginia, too. I love everybody coming here.”

A snowboard photographer, Ashley Rosemeyer acted as one of the competition’s judges.

“Since I’m from Pittsburgh, it was cool to come here for Red Bull Heavy Metal,” Rosemeyer said. “I wasn’t sure with the temperature what the riders would throw down, so it was awesome to see everyone out there really hyping each other up.”

Pittsburgh native and trophy curator Jack Hnath explained the significance of the prizes’ design.

“The Pittsburgh skyline was used for the first-place trophy, and then someone else had a great idea for the Clemente Bridge for the second and third place trophies, and it was just an exciting process. This was fun to work on,” Hnath said.

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