Braziliyanın “Flamenqo” klubunun yeni baş məşqçisi məlum olub.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, komandanın sükanı Leonardo Jardimə tapşırılıb. Bu barədə insayder Fabrizio Romano məlumat yayıb.
Jardimlə müqavilə 2027-ci ilin yayına kimi olacaq.
Mütəxəssis bu postda bir neçə gün əvvəl vəzifəsindən ayrılan Felipe Luisi əvəzləyəcək.
Jardim “Monako” klubundakı işi ilə daha çox tanınır.
“Barselona” itkilərlə üzləşib.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, komandanın müdafiəçiləri Jul Kunde və Aleks Balde sıradan çıxıb. Bu barədə İspaniya mətbuatı məlumat yayıb. Hər iki oyunçunun azı bir ay yaşıl meydanlardan uzaq qalacağı bildirilir.
“Barselona” La Liqada 64 xalla liderdir. Komanda İspaniya Kubokunda yarımfinalda “Atletiko” səddini aşa bilməyib – 0:4, 3:0.
Dortmund “Borussiya”sının futbolçusu Niko Şlotterbek karyerasını İspaniyada davam etdirə bilər.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, “Real” klubu müdafiəçinin xidmətində maraqlıdır. Bu barədə “Bild” nəşri məlumat yayıb. Madrid təmsilçisi 26 yaşlı futbolçu üçün yayda danışıqlara başlayacaq.
Alman müdafiəçinin “Borussiya” ilə müqaviləsi 2027-ci ilin yayına kimidir.
Şlotterbek bu mövsüm 27 oyunda 4 qol vurub, 2 məhsuldar ötürmə edib.
“Zirə”nin kapitanı Qismət Alıyev Bakı klubunun heyətində 200-cü oyununu keçirib.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, 30 yaşlı yarımmüdafiəçinin yubileyi Bizon Azərbaycan Kubokunun 1/4 final mərhələsinin “Sumqayıt”la cavab matçına (2:0) təsadüf edib.
Qəsəbə klubunun oyun sayında rekordçusu olan Alıyev 2020/21 mövsümündən çıxış etdiyi komandada 15 qol vurub. O, Premyer Liqada 166, ölkə kubokunda 22, avrokuboklarda 12 dəfə meydana çıxıb. Qismət çempionatda 13, avrokubokda 2 qola sevinib.
Qeyd edək ki, onun “Zirə”dəki debütü də “Sumqayıt”la matça təsadüf edib. Alıyev 2020-ci il oktyabrın 18-də Premyer Liqanın səfər görüşündə (1:2) meydana çıxıb.
Poll
The truth behind the rumors of Ronaldo's departure
Cristiano Ronaldo / @Foot Africa
Social media has recently been flooded with rumors claiming that Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has left the Saudi capital Riyadh, after his private jet was reportedly spotted on a flight to Spain.
According to several sources, the private aircraft of the Portuguese star, nicknamed the “Madeira Missile,” took off on Monday night bound for Spain. This information quickly fueled widespread speculation about a possible departure from Saudi Arabia, possibly with his family in tow.
However, Spanish sports daily Diario AS has refuted these claims in a recent article. The outlet confirms that Al-Nassr FC captain, now 40 years old, is still in Riyadh.
The newspaper also points out that the Portuguese forward is currently nursing an injury and is following a recovery program, which explains his recent absence.
These rumors surfaced amid heightened security tensions in the region, following reports of an attempted drone attack targeting the U.S. embassy in Riyadh.
Meanwhile, renowned Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano was quick to shut down the speculation. On his official X (Twitter) account, he categorically denied any reports suggesting Ronaldo had left for Madrid with his family.
Romano also clarified that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is present at Al-Nassr’s training ground, where he is undergoing recovery after suffering an injury in his last match.
A closer look at Algeria’s choice of opponents
Algeria/@FAF
Algeria’s preparation schedule for the 2026 World Cup is set. The Greens will play three or four friendlies before the global showdown.
Riyad Mahrez and his teammates will take on Guatemala on March 27, Uruguay on the 3rd of the same month, and the Netherlands on June 3. A fourth European sparring partner is also possible.
The Fennecs will kick off their World Cup campaign against Argentina. To prepare for this clash with the reigning world champions, they’ll go head-to-head with Uruguay.
The FAF’s decision to face an American side is all about creating conditions similar to those they’ll encounter against La Albiceleste—similar style of play.
Before that, Algeria will square off against Guatemala. On paper, it’s a manageable opponent, perfect for boosting confidence and giving as many players as possible some game time.
The duel with the Netherlands will help prepare for the showdown with Austria. However, there’s still a missing piece: a clash with an Asian side to get ready for the battle with Jordan.
Ian Wright wasn’t impressed with the performance of Robert Sanchez against Arsenal and believes the Blues need a new goalkeeper.
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Sanchez has improved hugely this season, and has surprised a lot of people by putting in performances many didn’t think he was capable of.
However, in Sunday’s defeat to Arsenal he had a poor game, and was certainly at fault for the winning goal from Jurrien Timber.
That performance has once again got people speaking about Sanchez, and whether he’s actually good enough to get Chelsea to where they need to be.
Jason Cundy has claimed Sanchez doesn’t think like a footballer, and he struggled with his feet for the first time in a while against Arsenal.
Sanchez on the whole has had a good season. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Chelsea passed up on the opportunity to sign Mike Maignan last summer, and the goalkeeper question is likely to be asked once again this summer.
The Blues have talented youngster Mike Penders on their books, but it’s unclear when he’ll be ready, and Wright has stated Chelsea need to get a new keeper.
“I don’t know how they’re going to do that with that goalkeeper if I’m totally honest,” he told Premier League productions.
“Because I think that there are so many opportunities where he probably will cost them and he could have cost them today, but I’m looking at a Chelsea side that only needs maybe a couple of experienced players.”
The Blues face a huge summer in the transfer market, and Wright feels they need three players in order to challenge.
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“I think they definitely need a goalkeeper, I think the midfield is fine, up front maybe another top striker if they can get that,” he added.
“But I think three additions to that team and I think they’re starting to challenge, no trouble, no problems at all.”
Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:
Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has said his club are ‘destined to suffer’ after they squeezed past Barcelona en route to the Copa del Rey final. Los Colchoneros took a four-goal lead to Camp Nou, but found themselves defending just a one-goal advantage in the final 20 minutes.
After the game, Simeone cut a relieved figure, and admitted that his strategy had been dismantled entirely. In terms of the tie as a whole, Simeone said he was conscious that Barcelona could mount a major comeback, and praised the performances of Pedri and Raphinha, who were not present in the first leg.
“I would focus on the first match. We had an extraordinary first half, with a very high pace and intensity. In the second half, we managed to withstand their attacks, and I left angry after that game. We could have scored another goal; we needed another goal given the way the game was going against us. You might ask how I could be angry after a 4-0 win, but I know what these Barcelona players are capable of; they play brilliantly.”
“Today, Pedri and Raphinha returned, and they are different, they play at a different pace, and they had a good first half. Although it hurts that the goals came from lapses in concentration on set pieces rather than from open play. I thought we defended well overall. I don’t know if the 3-0 goal was offside or not; it put us in a difficult position.”
“I loved Gimenez’s introduction; he gave us maturity and confidence. We couldn’t play the game we would have liked, attacking more down the right flank, like the play between Llorente and Lookman. We couldn’t attack as we would have liked because of their skill. Our people need a final and we hope to give everything to give them what they want.”
Simeone explained that he felt his side had to do more going forward, but that the suffering very much remains necessary.
“I wouldn’t have taken it, because we needed to and could have played a better game offensively. We’re Atletico, we’re destined to suffer, to always push ourselves to the limit, but I don’t know what it will bring us, but believe me, the journey is fantastic.”
“Our fans needed a match like this. The boys are making an incredible effort to get where our supporters want them to be. Now it’s time to get there in top form, work hard, and eagerly await the final.”
Arguably Atletico Madrid’s best player on the night was Antoine Griezmann, in spite of their offensive struggles. Speculation continues over a potential move to Orlando City, and Simeone was clear that he wanted him to be playing in the final.
“I hope so. He deserves it more than anyone. His performance today was incredible, and his quality and talent will stay with him for the rest of his life. What more can I add to what you all know I feel for him? I love him, I always want the best for him, and I hope he can play in that final.”
Image via Alejandro García / EFE
The approach Atletico Madrid should take was a major talking point before the game, with such a large lead to protect. Simeone claimed his side had no intention of sitting deep to hold onto their lead, and it was simply what Barcelona forced them into.
“We planned the game to attack. And it didn’t happen, or it happened very rarely. The good thing about this game is that anything you can imagine can happen, or it can’t, because it also depends on the opponent. The opponent was better; they had a very high intensity in the first half. Kounde and Balde had to come off because their effort was tremendous. To compete at the highest levels, you have to play like this, and I think it will be very useful for what’s to come.”
“They took away the time we needed to play. At home, we had that time. We played with a higher intensity then. That’s why we scored four goals. Today it was harder. But I leave with the joy and the great effort of knowing how to suffer. It’s part of this competition when it’s a two-legged tie.”
The mutual respect between Simeone and Hansi Flick was in evidence again, with the pair seen chatting after the final whistle. If Atletico beat Tottenham Hotspur and Barcelona pass Newcastle United in the Champions League Round of 16, the two sides will face off for a fifth and sixth time this season.
“I told Flick they played brilliantly. I hope we meet in the Champions League quarterfinals. I think today, with the score at 3-0, I said: ‘This is Atleti.'”
“Pedri, Bernal… made a tremendous effort. It was difficult to maintain the intensity of the first half. Giménez’s entrance gave us maturity. And that maturity is needed within a team.”
Liverpool made a lot of changes to their team during the summer transfer window with many fans believing that Arne Slot's men would be close to unstoppable.
The arrival of several players such as Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz made fans believe that they had everything they needed to retain the Premier League title and potentially win the Champions League.
However, due to the amount of time it took their new signings to settle in and the number of injuries the club have suffered, that hasn't been the case.
They're obviously still in the running for the Champions League title but with a game against Paris Saint-Germain in their near future, there's some concern about whether the Anfield outfit have what it takes to triumph.
Liverpool's spending went over the £450 million mark in the summer with some fans wanting even more to be spent.
Slot and Richard Hughes managed to entice most of their transfer targets to L4 but there was the odd one or two that got away.
At the time, the players who got away felt like massive blows but now, it could have ended up being a blessing in disguise.
Rodrygo's future was one of the most talked-about things during the 2025-26 summer transfer window.
From the number of games that he played in the Club World Cup, it was clear that the Brazilian wasn't going to feature in Xabi Alonso's plans as much as he hoped.
Others were often chosen ahead of him which led to teams such as Liverpool and Manchester City being linked with him.
Those rumours have persisted wiThis couth many thinking that a transfer could be on the table in the summer.
However after the latest update that has emerged, it seems like the Anfield outfit have dodged a bullet by not signing the attacker.
Marca outline that Rodrygo has 'suffered a rupture' of his ACL.
The attacker is set to miss the rest of Real Madrid's season with his hopes of appearing in the World Cup in tatters.
This injury also means that he's unlikely to get the Bernabeu exit that he wanted, even though Liverpool will need to add a new attacker to their ranks in the future.
Alongside their defence, Liverpool's attack have been far from their best.
Players such as Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo and even Isak have failed to impress despite Salah and Gakpo playing most of the Reds' games this term.
That's why it's hardly a surprise to see players such as Mateus Mane, Rodrygo and Yan Diomande being linked with a move.
It's clear that Liverpool need to start planning for life without Salah over the next year or so and, if they don't put their full focus into signing one attacker, they'll miss out on their ideal replacement for the Egyptian King.
Both players would cost an arm and a leg to prise away from their clubs but, since they need to gear themselves up to be Liverpool's next Salah, their price tag shouldn't matter.
There's obviously no knowing what Slot and Hughes are going to do this summer but, if the Dutchman keeps his job, it's hard to see why a new attacker wouldn't be at the top of his priority list, especially after the performances his team have put in this term.
Joe Hart believes that Liverpool still have the ‘quality’ to secure Champions League football for next season, despite their current campaign hitting yet another low point on Tuesday night.
The Reds missed the chance to steal a march on positional rivals Manchester United, Aston Villa and Chelsea (all of whom play tonight) by losing 2-1 away to bottom club Wolves, and a win for the Blues at Villa Park would knock Arne Slot’s side back down into sixth place.
Speaking on TNT Sports after last night’s defeat for the Premier League champions, the former England goalkeeper remains confident that the Merseysiders will finish inside the top five, but warned that they ‘need to step up’ in the final few weeks of the season.
Hart said of Liverpool’s Champions League qualification prospects: “The season ebbs and flows. I think they’ve got the quality to do it, if Liverpool find their stride and can put back-to-back wins together like they did [in February].
“Previous to this conversation it looked like a dead cert, but that’s just how the season is going at the moment. I think they have the quality and the capability to do it, but they need to step up.
“Talking about the chances they created tonight, I know Arne Slot was saying they created more than Wolves, but they should create more than Wolves. They should be absolutely battering Wolves. Jose Sa has made one very good save, one half-decent save, and other than that I think he had a quiet night.”
(Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
A run of three straight league wins coming into last night had suggested that Liverpool were regaining momentum at the right time, but that has now been lost after the chastening defeat at Molineux, with the Reds conceding twice from only four shots faced across 90+ minutes.
That Villa and Chelsea play each other tonight – with at least one guaranteed to drop points – is favourable for LFC, but the harsh truth is that we need to take care of our own business and not be left praying for positional rivals to slip up.
Gary Lineker has also backed Slot’s side to finish in the Champions League places, and for now our destiny remains in our own hands, but more results like the one against Wolves would swiftly hand the initiative back to the other teams chasing a top-five berth.
Hart is right in saying that, with all due respect to Rob Edwards’ side, they’re the kind of opposition that Liverpool should be defeating with conviction if they’re serious about qualifying for Europe’s premier club competition in 2026/27.
The Reds have lost nine points with the concession of stoppage-time goals already this season. Add those on to our current total and not only is Champions League qualification a near-formality; we might even be just about still in a title race.
Alas, the battle that LFC face is one that nobody would’ve expected us to be in at this stage of the campaign.
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The Brazilian National Team has suffered a major blow with Rodrygo’s serious injury.
The Real Madrid forward suffered a rupture of the cruciate ligament in his right knee and will need six months to a year to recover, which officially rules him out of the World Cup.
Rodrygo was a central piece in Carlo Ancelotti’s system and the top scorer of the current cycle for the National Team, with eight goals.
Since his return in the match against South Korea in October, he had started in three out of four games.
Playing on the left side in the 4-2-4 formation, but with the freedom to move inside and get into the box, his versatility was one of the Italian coach’s main assets.
Neymar back in the spotlight
With the spot now open, Neymar’s name is gaining traction again, as he has similar characteristics to Rodrygo.
However, Ancelotti has made it clear that Santos’ number 10 needs to prove he is in ideal physical condition.
After undergoing arthroscopic surgery on the meniscus of his left knee in December, Neymar only returned to play on February 15.
Since then, he has played three matches for Santos, unable to prevent the team’s elimination from the Paulistão by Novorizontino, but scoring two goals in the win over Vasco in the Brasileirão.
Another midfielder or a number 9?
Rodrygo’s injury could also change the overall makeup of the final squad list, according to O Globo.
Instead of bringing another forward with the same characteristics, Ancelotti may choose to call up an extra midfielder or a new center-forward.
The first signs of how the Italian coach will solve this puzzle will be seen in the squad announcement on March 16, for the friendlies against France and Croatia.
What will Brazil’s attack look like?
The absence of Real Madrid’s number 10 opens up a range of possibilities for the coaching staff, directly impacting other key names in the squad:
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.
The shoe is on the other foot this week. Reading snatch victory from the jaws of defeat late on against Bradford City to strengthen their playoff credentials. Ben and Ross discuss the play-style that’s taken Leam Richardson this far with Noel Hunt’s stuttering Reading team, as well as the prospect of the rest of the season without Jack Marriott.
There’s also discussion on Richardson’s recent STAR Q&A, plus news on the upcoming exciting fixtures for the Women’s team.
Thanks as always to our friends at ZCZ Films for sponsoring the pod!
Thank you to The Amazons for providing the theme song!
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The Tilehurst End Podcast can be enjoyed via PodBean, Spotify, Acast, YouTube or iTunes. A big thanks to all listeners who continue to pledge to our Patreon campaign.
Listeners can always get in touch with the podcast via our Twitter and Facebook pages as well as our email, thetilehurstend@gmail.com, with thoughts on the show, opinions on the team, and potential topics to sink our teeth into always welcome.
Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick says he and star player Luka Doncic have a "great relationship" despite a heated exchange between the pair that went viral.
The Lakers were on a three-game losing streak going into Saturday's game at the Golden State Warriors but were leading comfortably when Doncic was replaced late in the first quarter.
The Slovenian, 27, tried to avoid a fist bump from Redick as he walked to his seat on the bench, and the Lakers coach then followed Doncic down the sideline.
The pair exchanged words as Doncic took his seat before Redick turned to walk back towards half court.
As he did, Doncic got back to his feet and said more towards Redick while his team-mate Jarred Vanderbilt stood up, ostensibly to clap encouragement for the Lakers but also putting a barrier in front of Doncic, who sat back down moments later.
Speaking before Tuesday's 110-101 win over the New Orleans Pelicans, Redick said: "I don't know why it went viral. It felt very normal to me.
"I didn't think much of it at the time, to be honest with you. I don't think Luka did either."
Doncic had claimed four points and three assists by that point, and returned on Saturday to finish with a game-high 26 points.
The six-time All-Star scored another game-high 27 points as the Lakers won a third straight game on Tuesday to stay sixth in the Western Conference standings.
"He and I have a great relationship," Redick added. "I really value our relationship. And I think those things happen. Not every game, but they happen very frequently.
"It's a competition. And there's two guys here who, in this case, are trying to win a basketball game and be on the same page about stuff."
The Western Conference leaders Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Chicago Bulls 116-108 on Tuesday while second-placed San Antonio Spurs thumped the Philadelphia 76ers 131-91.
The Eastern Conference-leading Detroit Pistons suffered a 113-109 loss at the Cleveland Cavaliers, for whom Jaylon Tyson scored 22 points and new signing James Harden added 18, while the third-placed New York Knicks took advantage with a 111-95 win at the Toronto Raptors.
Arsenal continue their Premier League title challenge as the Gunners head to Brighton.
Mikel Arteta’s side moved five points clear of Manchester Cityas they defeated Chelsea 2-1 at the Emirates.
The title rivals will be kicking off at the same time as City host Nottingham Forest at the Etihad.
Brighton earned a 2-1 win over Forest on Sunday, to relieve some of the pressure on Fabian Hurzeler’s shoulders.
Here’s everything you need to know.
The Premier League fixture kicks off at 7:30pm GMT on Wednesday 4 March.
It will be shown on TNT Sports 2 and Discovery+.
Yasin Ayari could be available again for Brighton but Fabian Hurzeler has no new injury concerns to report after naming an unchanged team for the win against Nottingham Forest.
Mikel Arteta said he was hopeful that Declan Rice would be available after the midfielder asked to come off against Chelsea. Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard face late checks.
Brighton XI: Verbruggen; Wieffer, Van Hecke, Dunk, Kadioglu; Hinshelwood, Milner, Gross; Gomez, Welbeck, Mitoma.
Arsenal XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Zubimendi, Rice, Eze; Madueke, Gyokeres, Martinelli
Turning 40 this month, Manuel Neuer faces the decision of whether to extend his contract with Bayern Munich for another year or hang up his gloves this summer, when his contract expires.
According to Sport Bild, there is doubt at Bayern over whether the goalkeeping veteran will sign a new deal, with the magazine describing his chances of extending or retiring as "50-50."
A decision on Neuer’s future could come at the end of March, with a meeting between the player and club expected during the upcoming international break.
Neuer has missed Bayern’s last two games due to muscular problems and is a doubt for Friday’s Bundesliga clash with Borussia Mönchengladbach.
Jonas Urbig, who has been filling in for Neuer lately, is expected to be given the chance as Bayern's No. 1 if the the 39-year-old decides to retire at the end of the season.
Where to watch Unrivaled championship game: Time, TV channel, live stream for 2026 3-on-3 basketball final originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
After several heated matchups in the 2026 Unrivaled playoffs, it's down to the final two. The Phantom and Mist will go head-to-head for the championship Wednesday.
To not much surprise, the top two seeds in the 3-on-3 league have advanced to the title game. Both clinched their spot with thrilling finishes in the semifinals — Breanna Stewart powered a 10-0 run for the Mist that completed a fourth-quarter comeback, while Kelsey Plum hit a game-winning three for the Phantom.
Wednesday's championship game will mark just the second in the history of the women's league. Last year, Rose BC edged Vinyl BC for the inaugural trophy, with stars like Chelsea Gray and Angel Reese on the court. This time, veteran talents will lead their squads in Miami.
You won't want to miss out on this matchup.
Here's everything you need to know about the 2026 Unrivaled championship game, including TV channel and streaming options for the 3-on-3 final.
The 2026 Unrivaled championship game will be broadcast live on TNT and truTV for those watching on traditional television. Cord-cutters can also stream the action on DIRECTV.
Catch every game – try DIRECTV FREE today! Stream live Soccer, MLB, and more with must-have sports channels like TNT, TBS, truTV, ESPN, FS1, and NFL Network—all included with DIRECTV.
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The title matchup between the Mist and Phantom will take place on Wednesday, March 4 at 9:30 p.m. ET. The game will be played at Sephora Arena in Miami, Florida.
| Game | Time (ET) | TV/Live stream |
| No. 6 Vinyl 82, No. 3 Laces 69 | — | — |
| No. 5 Breeze 69, No. 4 Rose 50 | — | — |
| Game | Time (ET) | TV/ Live stream |
| No. 1 Phantom 83, No. 6 Vinyl 75 | — | — |
| No. 2 Mist 73, No. 5 Breeze 69 | — | — |
| Game | Time (ET) | TV/ Live stream |
| No. 1 Phantom vs. No. 2 Mist | 9:30 p.m. | TNT, truTV, DIRECTV |
| Seed | Team | Record |
| 1 | Phantom* | 11-3 |
| 2 | Mist* | 10-4 |
| 3 | Laces* | 10-4 |
| 4 | Rose* | 6-8 |
| 5 | Breeze* | 6-8 |
| 6 | Vinyl* | 5-9 |
| 7 | Lunar Owls | 4-10 |
| 8 | Hive | 4-10 |
*Playoff team
Inter go to the minimum
Chivu thinks about the derby: return leg on April 21 or 22 at San Siro. Lazio-Atalanta for the dream final at 21:00.
Heart of Leao
Rafa is more and more a devil. Contacts to extend to 2030. Top salary to beat Premier League competition.
Kaka: ‘Scudetto, it’s not over. Modric will decide it on Sunday.’
Lady Spalletti
Even Locatelli is ready to sign for the new Juve
Put Totti for dinner
Meeting with Gasp, Roma return really close.
Coppa Italia, semifinal first leg: it ends 0-0 in Como
Cesc blocks Inter
Vojvoda and Valle waste two big chances: Darmian hits the post, and boos for Bastoni. Chivu’s rotations for the derby. Return leg on April 22. Lazio challenges Atalanta (21:00). The Olimpico is empty due to the fans’ protest.
Allegri, Real try
Florentino’s target
Third attempt: the president already moved forward in 2019 and 2021.
Max trendy again in Madrid
From Xabi Alonso’s sacking to Arbeloa’s failure. In Champions, they risk elimination against Man City. Manoeuvres to reach the coach tied to Milan to 2027.
Fiorentina, what a blow. Kean is injured.
Still problems in his fibula: he must miss Parma and Rakov. Vanoli relies on Piccoli.
Napoli, Conte has closed the home
The point average at home is 2.33 points per game. Now seven games out of 11 away from home. Lobotka alarm.
Como boos Bastoni too
Coppa Italia: 0-0 in the semifinal first leg. The defender continues to pay for Inter-Juve
Blasts of disapproval every time he touched the ball. Chivu, massive rotations with a view to the derby. Three chances for Vojvoda, Darmian hits the post, and the cautious prevail. Everything is postponed to April 22 or 23. Lazio-Atalanta tonight: Lotito attacks Sarri and Baroni.
Lucio deals with it
Vlahovic and Juve discuss the renewal: Spalletti pushes
The coach is convinced he can take Dusan to higher levels. It’s his first choice for the attack, to be strengthened by another big signing (Kolo Muani or… Malen). Behind the scenes: Juve view the father’s presence at the negotiating table positively. Locatelli 2030: contract ready. Club’s announcement on LinkedIn: seeking a figure specialised in injury prevention.
Simeone: it won’t be a Buongiorno in Naples
Cholito returns to the Maradona on Friday.
The love for the city, the duty of repeating himself and the duel with a granata heart. History and behind the scenes of a special match.
Last night, Barcelona came within one goal of completing the comeback against Atletico Madrid, just a single strike away from levelling the Copa del Rey semifinal tie and forcing extra time. But it was not to be.
Chasing a four-goal deficit from the first leg, the Blaugrana put on a brilliant display at the Spotify Camp Nou, winning 3-0, but ultimately getting eliminated from the cup competition on aggregate score.
Despite the exit from the Copa del Rey, Barcelona walked off the pitch at the Spotify Camp Nou with loud applause from the fans, who sang the club anthem at the top of their voice, showing their support for the players.
And, speaking to the media after the game, Barça winger and captain Raphinha thanked the fans for their support and expressed optimism for what lies ahead for the team.
“I’m very proud of this team,” said Raphinha, who scored the second goal on the night against Atletico Madrid.
“If we keep playing like this, we’ll have a spectacular end to the season,” he promised.
Barcelona tried hard and came close. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Raphinha was especially grateful for the support of the fans in a game which marked the return of the Grada d’Animació in the renovated Camp Nou.
“The truth is, I think it’s us who should be thanking the fans; they were spectacular. When we play at home, we need to feel the fans’ support. It’s important for us. I think the fans are proud,” the Brazilian international stressed.
Talking about the game and the result, Raphinha stated: “We gave it our all. Atletico played very well. We did everything we could, we just fell a little short. We’re disappointed not to reach the final, but we have more positives than negatives to take away.
“The intensity we showed, the desire to come back… Atletico sealed the deal in the first leg, we have to acknowledge their merit.”
Concluding, the Barcelona winger noted: “It’s time to keep our heads up. Tomorrow is another day. We have to leave here proud of what we’ve done.
“Now it’s time to think about the weekend. On to La Liga and the Champions League, that’s what we have to focus on.”
Source: Mundo Deportivo
Aron Donnum has missed Toulouse FC’s last two games in Ligue 1 due to an internal sanction, however, he will return for the Coupe de France encounter against Olympique de Marseille, and he is expected to start the encounter.
Carles Martínez Novell confirmed that Donnum’s sanction was for two games, not just one, meaning that he missed the game against Paris FC, as well as that against Stade Rennais last weekend. Reports suggest that it is a consequence of his behaviour in the dressing room following Toulouse’s defeat to Le Havre AC last month.
The Norwegian has now served his suspension and is expected to start on the left of Le TéFéCé’s attack. Frank Magri, however, misses out due to an injury.
Kjetil Haug; Rasums Nicolaisen, Charlie Cresswell, Mark McKenzie; Dayann Methalie, Cristian Casseres, Pape Demba Diop, Djibril Sidibé; Yann Gboho, Emersson, Aron Donnum. (L’Éq)
Los Angeles, Calif. -- LA Galaxy fans were angry at the beginning of the year, or at the very least skeptical.
Not only had they received the worst news possible just a few days before, that Riqui Puig would miss the entirety of the 2026 season after an ACL injury setback (his second in consecutive years), but they would also not be getting a new number 10 to replace him and orchestrate the attack.
The LA Galaxy had gone in another direction.
News broke that Will Kuntz and the Galaxy were in advanced negotiations for Brazilian Striker João Klauss, then of St. Louis City, to become the team's newest designated player, replacing Puig.
Joao Klauss is a G.
— LA Galaxy (@LAGalaxy) January 27, 2026
We have acquired forward João Klauss in a cash-for-player trade from St. Louis CITY SC in exchange for $2,375,000. Klauss is under contract with the club through the 2026 season.
📰: https://t.co/17gdGhbk8Zpic.twitter.com/4zOUSSOzbL
On the surface, there were plenty of questions.
Would Klauss even start with the Galaxy already having two strikers in Christian Ramirez and Matheus Nascimento (the Galaxy would later cut Ramirez)?
How would another striker help the Galaxy with chance creation?
Could he stay healthy after injuries forced him to miss time in 2023 and 2024 for St. Louis?
Did Klauss have the offensive chops to “replace” Puig, whom many consider a unicorn in his skill set?
Pundits and detractors of the deal alike correctly pointed out that Klauss had never scored more than 10 goals in his two seasons in MLS.
And it's only taken Klauss two games to shut them up.
The Galaxy’s newest DP opened his Galaxy goal tally within 85 seconds on opening day, and LA should have walked away with three points off his game-winner.
He followed that up with a riveting performance against Charlotte.
Klauss was electric. The striker led the line, led the press, was the epitome of hard work, and seemed to further solidify his understanding with fellow Brazilian Gabriel Pec en route to scoring two goals in the Galaxy’s 3-0 dismantling of the visiting side.
LA Galaxy Head Coach Greg Vanney spared the newcomer no compliment.
“He sets the tone. When everybody behind you looks to the guy in front who is working like he's working, you have no choice but to work with him. That's what I love. His mentality has been fantastic,” Vanney said in a post-match press conference after his team's win over Charlotte.
Both Vanney and Kuntz have spoken several times about the need to have good soccer players and good men, and Klauss fits the mold of the ideal player they've described.
“He's a great guy for our locker room, and when he goes out there, he goes out there to work. He leads us on the defensive side. Never takes shortcuts. Obviously, he's big, and he's strong and hard to deal with for center-backs. I like the work he's putting in,” Vanney said of the tall striker.
The work is paying off.
Klauss now has three goals in two games, leading the league's golden boot race, and was named to the MLS team of the matchday.
It's only taken Klauss two games to become a part of Galaxy history as well.
In the win over Charlotte, the Galaxy set a team record with three goals in the first 12 minutes and 14 seconds of the match (Sanabria 8’, Klauss 11’, Klauss 13’).
Edwin So - The Sporting Tribune
LA Galaxy midfielder Lucas Sanabria (8) celebrates with forward João Klauss (99) after scoring a goal during an MLS game between LA Galaxy and Charlotte FC on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif.
It was the fastest triple in LA Galaxy history, passing the previous mark set by Ibrahimovic and Pavon on August 25, 2019, in an El Tráfico against LAFC.
It was also the sixth fastest time to three goals in MLS history.
Not bad at all so far, for a guy considered a replacement player.
But it's no surprise that he's emerged as one of the leaders of this 2026 Galaxy team.
Kuntz knew all along the type of hard-working player he was getting.
“He really is a horse … We spend a lot of time looking at the physical data that the guys have. In terms of output, he works, he presses, by all accounts a great teammate, a guy who can combine,” the Galaxy General Manager explained to MLS Writer Charles Boehm.
But the beautiful part about Klauss is that he's a budding fan favorite, league star, and DP who doesn't need the spotlight.
In fact, the striker seems more than comfortable playing second fiddle to fellow DP's Pec and Joseph Paintsil.
“They are the stars. They create the most for the team. My job is to make things easier for them,” Klauss explained.
He shared that playing with Pec and Paintsil has been easy because of their quality. The way the attacking trio integrates this year will be pivotal for the Galaxy’s chances.
But the early returns are encouraging.
Indeed, the fruits of a budding Brazilian relationship could be seen during preseason when Klauss set Pec up for two goals in one game.
Against Charlotte, Pec returned the favor.
João Klauss puts home a beautiful ball by Gabriel Pec and the LA Galaxy double the lead early pic.twitter.com/mAX2PQKp7B
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 1, 2026
And although Klauss has been the main man so far this year offensively, the humble giant has deferred to his teammates and propped them up in more than one interview.
“I think it’s very easy to create relationships with great players, so with their qualities it’s not difficult,” the third designated player said of his fellow DP's.
Klauss followed that up with the words every coach and every fan wants to hear.
“It's not about me. It’s about the team. So that’s the mentality that I try to show every single day and every single game.”
It's only been two games, but Klauss has shut his critics up with his words and actions.
On the way, he's already become a new fan favorite in LA by doing and saying everything right.
So far.
After the president of Iran’s football federation suggested the country could boycott the World Cup following the US and Israeli strikes on the country, Donald Trump has said he “really doesn’t care” if Iran play in the tournament.
According to multiple outlets, including the Associated Press, Iran’s top football official Mehdi Taj told sports news portal Varzesh3: “What is certain is that after these attacks, it's hard to look at the World Cup with hope.”
The tournament takes place across multiple cities in the United States, Mexico and Canada this summer. Iran’s group games are scheduled to be played in the US, between Los Angeles and Seattle.
“It's not possible to say exactly, but there will certainly be a response," Taj also said, according to Reuters. “This will surely be studied by the country's high-ranking sports officials and there will be a decision on what's going to happen.”
Fifa continue to monitor the situation. Secretary general Mattias Grafstrom said on Saturday: “It's too early to comment, but we will monitor developments around the world that could affect the tournament.”
Iran were the only nation to be missing from a World Cup planning event participating teams, held this week in Atlanta. Trump told Politico on Tuesday: "I really don't care. I think Iran is a very badly defeated country. They're running on fumes."
Iran are scheduled to play two World Cup games in Los Angeles and another in Seattle. They will face New Zealand and Belgium in LA on June 15 and June 21, followed by the match against Egypt in Seattle on June 26.
But little is known about how Iran could respond to the US and Israeli strikes in a sporting context. Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Khamenei has been killed - while Trump has said the strikes could continue for the next four weeks. Iranian officials have ruled out negotiating with the US, as well.
There has never been a boycott of the World Cup on political grounds and the last World Cup boycott was 60 years ago, when African teams refused to play in protest of receiving just one-third of a qualifying berth.
There has never before been a situation where a World Cup host has attacked a qualified team so close to the start of the tournament, with just four months to go before the opening game.
As the Independent’s Miguel Delaney highlighted, several European countries discussed a World Cup boycott when the United States threatened to annex Greenland in January.
Even before the strikes, there was political tension over Iran’s involvement in the tournament due to visa restrictions. The country’s football federation followed through on a threat to boycott Novembers’s World Cup draw in Washington DC.
At the time, Iranian Football Federation spokesman Amir Mehdi Alavi said the US had granted visas to four members of the Iranian delegation, including head coach Amir Ghalenoei, but had not issued one to its football president Mehdi Taj.
The boycott of the World Cup draw, Alavi said, followed “unsportsmanlike actions” by one of the host countries.
And the situation has only escalated since then. Athletes, teams members and family members were previously excluded from Trump’s travel ban but the US government could also decide to restrict Iran from competing at all if they cited security risks.
In Fifa’s World Cup regulations, published last year and before the qualifying stage of the tournament was complete, it states: “If any Participating Member Association withdraws and/or is excluded from the Fifa World Cup 26, Fifa shall decide on the matter at its sole discretion and take whatever action is deemed necessary. Fifa may decide to replace the Participating Member Association in question with another association.”
Iran qualified automatically for the World Cup, with the United Arab Emirates losing out on an automatic qualification spot and subsequently going out in the play-off rounds. In the event of Iran not playing in the World Cup, they would be the closest replacement. Iraq could only be an option, if they do not come through their intercontinental play-off against either Bolivia or Suriname in Mexico later this month.
But the uncertainty in the Gulf as a result of the US strikes means that replacing Iran with either the UAE or Iraq could be far from straight-forward, and Fifa’s regulations indicate that they could do whatever they would like, anyway.
There is some precedent from last summer when Mexican side Club Leon were kicked out of the Club World Cup due to multi-club ownership rules. Fifa then announced a play-off between Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) and Mexican team Club America which was won by LAFC, granting them access to the tournament.
Fifa’s World Cup regulations also state: “Fifa has the right to cancel, reschedule or relocate one or more matches (or the entire FIFA World Cup 26) for any reason at its sole discretion, including as a result of force majeure or due to health, safety or security concerns.”
Seemingly, there is therefore the possibility that Iran’s games could be moved from the US; but there is also the possibility that the US and Iran could play each other at the tournament. This would happen if both teams were runners-up in Group D and Group G respectively, with that fixture scheduled to be played in Arlington, Texas.
Anger at having been eliminated when just one more goal was needed to force extra time, pride for having stood up and fought until the last minute, absolute faith in a project to fight for it to the very end...
Feelings that in another football match might diverge for both teams, in what happened last night between Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid are closer than one might think. Both teams fought yesterday in a clash where football was the main protagonist.
A clash that dominates the front pages this Wednesday.
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This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.
Iran coach Marziyeh Jafari said Wednesday her team had "so much concern" about their families at home as war rages with players "fully disconnected" from them during the Women's Asian Cup.
The Iranian team are preparing to face host nation Australia on the Gold Coast Thursday after losing their opening game of the continental competition 3-0 to South Korea.
They will kick off once more with their homeland being bombarded by the United States and Israel.
An internet blackout has made it near-impossible for players and staff to contact anyone, with Jafari thankful for the support they have received from Iranian-Australians.
"We are so happy that Iranian-Australians here support us," she told Australian media.
"Obviously we have so much concern for our families and our loved ones and all other people inside our country, which we are fully disconnected with.
"Here, we are coming to play football professionally and we will do our best to concentrate on the match ahead."
Striker Sara Didar fought back tears as she spoke about their worries.
"Obviously we're all concerned and we're sad because of what has happened to Iran and our families and our loved ones," the 21-year-old told reporters.
Asian football chiefs have said they were offering "full support and assistance" to the team, who arrived in Australia just days before strikes killed supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Iran made their historic debut at the last Asian Cup in India in 2022, which made them national heroes in a country where women's rights are severely restricted.
mp/mtp
As expected, FC Lorient are expected to name a strong side when they welcome OGC Nice in the quarter-finals of the Coupe de France, however, L’Équipe understands that star playmaker Pablo Pagis may not start Wednesday night’s encounter at the Moustoir.
Pagis may start the game from the bench, as may Noah Cadiou, an imposing midfielder who has excelled for Olivier Pantaloni’s side in recent weeks. In Pagis’ place, it may be Dermane Karim who gets the nod, whilst in midfield, it may be Arthur Avom Ebong who starts alongside club captain Laurent Abergel.
There are also absences for Lorient to contend with. Igor Silva misses out on this game due to injury, whilst Isaak Touré is not yet ready to make his return to action.
Bingourou Kamara; Darlin Yongwa, Montassar Talbi, Bamo Meité; Arsène Kouassi, Laurent Abergel, Arthur Avom Ebong, Théo Le Bris; Dermane Karim, Jean-Victor Makengo; Bamba Dieng. (L’Éq)
A Cincinnati Bengals star defensive end is now a free agent.
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The Bengals declined to give defensive Trey Hendrickson the franchise tag, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Each NFL team is allowed to grant the option to tag one player with an expiring contract. It allows them to keep them for one more season.
This means that Hendrickson will become an unrestricted free agent.
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He thanked his teammates, coaches, staff, fans, and the organization in a social media post on Tuesday.
“Thank you for the opportunity to play the game I love at the highest level. The last 5 years have been filled with Great wins & Tough losses, personal achievements & humbling adversities,” said Hendrickson in an Instagram post. “I was & always will be proud to have worn the Cincinnati Bengals logo & honor the history behind it.”
The 31-year-old defensive end played in only six games during the 2025 season due to a hip injury.
Hendrickson had 16 tackles, four sacks, one pass defended, and one forced fumble.
He concluded by thanking Bengals fans.
“Thank you for supporting me in the relentless pursuit of winning. You’ve made the Jungle Roar when I hunted QB after QB! Memories of those moments will live in my heart & mind forever. The hard work this city puts in, and its support for our Bengals, made it easy to empty the tank for this fanbase! I could not be more proud of the high standards we have for our city & football team.”
Cincinnati went 6-11 this past season and missed the playoffs for the third straight season.
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Dave Rennie has been appointed the new head coach of New Zealand, becoming the first person of Pasifika heritage to lead the side.
The 62-year-old replaces Scott Robinson, who was sacked in January after two years following high-profile losses to South Africa, Argentina and England as well as reports of tension between senior players and All Blacks staff.
At a news conference in Auckland announcing his appointment, Rennie's opening words in Maori were "Kia orana koutou", which translate as "hello to all" or "hello everyone".
Pasifika heritage encompasses the indigenous peoples of Polynesia, Melanesia and Micronesia, with Upper Hutt-born Rennie having Cook Islands links through his mother.
Having beaten Jamie Joseph to the job, he is tasked with taking the country to its fourth World Cup triumph when the tournament gets under way in Australia next October.
However, he will honour his role leading Japan's Kobe Steelers before preparing New Zealand for their July tests against France, Italy and Ireland.
Describing himself as "extremely proud and honoured", Rennie said he was "well aware of the expectations and responsibility of the role" as New Zealand bid for a fourth World Cup success.
"It's a sprint from here," said Rennie.
"We need to get the athletes in the best possible position to execute and play well."
New Zealand Rugby chairman David Kirk said Rennie's extensive experience had been an important factor in his appointment.
His career includes coaching the All Blacks' great rivals, Australia, from late 2019 to early 2023.
Overseeing 34 tests, he won 13, drew four and lost 18 - giving him the lowest winning record of any Wallabies coach who had taken at least 30 tests.
While the side notched up notable wins over New Zealand, South Africa and France, they also fell to their first defeat to Italy.
Rennie said team culture would be one of his main focuses when he takes the reigns and that he had an idea of changes he wanted to make to the way the team played.
"[I'm] probably not going to go into massive detail around what that is or the changes we want to make because I don't want to throw anyone in the previous regime under the bus," he added.
"I've watched a lot of footy already. I've got some firm ideas around the shifts we can make that'll make us better."
The Don't Go To Bed Just Yet team have conducted a lengthy interview with Peter Lowy, Leeds United director and large investor.
In it, he discusses investing in the club, expanding Elland Road and his childhood love for the Whites.
"I've been a fan since I was a kid and it was hard to be a fan of English football and all leagues living in Australia in the 60s and 70s as we didn't have satellites so you couldn't watch the games," he explained.
"In fact Match of the Day used to be filmed, put on a Qantas flight, sent to Australia so you get to see it there next week. But I fell in love with English football.
"First memory of Leeds was the Revie teams and then the white kit with the smiley badge. When we brought the smiley badge back, it just evokes a feeling of the team and the football that is just inside me. And the way you look at it, I am in love with football and in love with the team and to be in the position I'm in now, it's almost hard to imagine that I could get here."
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LOS ANGELES - UCLA (20-10, 12-7) took down No. 9 Nebraska (25-5, 14-5) 72-52 for the Bruin's most resounding defeat of a Top 10 opponent this season on Tuesday.
The win has likely made UCLA a lock for the NCAA tournament after hovering on the outside looking in for some time, but it also reveals the trait that the Bruins have been missing the most this season: consistency.
Tuesday night showed clearly that they have the talent and the drive to play far above what their record may indicate, they just haven't been able to chain together that energy for more than a game or two, especially since conference play began.
Before praising his own team, head coach Mick Cronin gave a lot of credit to the Cornhuskers for bringing that energy out of the Bruins.
"That's the best we've played all year. They [Nebraska] brought out the best in us," Cronin said. "We went from our worst defensive effort to our best defensive effort."
Something else was in the air in Pauley Pavilion that could have given the Bruins some extra incentive as well, and it wasn't the looming threat of missing March Madness.
Tuesday was the last home game of the regular season and Senior Night for UCLA. Although, on a night dedicated to seniors, one sophomore shined brightest as he looked to bounce back after a disappointing performance in UCLA's loss to Minnesota.
"We didn't want out seniors to lose their last game in Pauley," sophomore guard Trent Perry said. "I felt like I let my team down last game in Minnesota [and] faced a different type of adversity... Getting a lot of comments, hate comments, threats and I just felt like I had to come out here tonight and really bounce back for my team," Perry said.
Perry led the team with 20 points while shooting 8-15 from the field. He added seven rebounds and four assists as well and for a while, it seemed like he was the only Bruin who had a three point shot at the ready.
The rest of the team found their shots soon enough, though, and by the end of the game shot 46.7% from the field and 34.5% from three. That along with their seriously leveled up defense sealed the victory.
Jordan Teller - The Sporting Tribune
Tyler Bilodeau #34 of the UCLA Bruins and his parents are greeted by head coach Mick Cronin of the UCLA Bruins during the senior night ceremony before an NCAA basketball game against the Nebraska Cornhuskers, Tuesday March 3, 2026 in Los Angeles, Calif.
The Bruins may have found their groove after Tuesday, and not a moment too soon, but that doesn't mean their trials are over.
There's still one more regular season matchup, an away game against crosstown rival USC, and after that the Big Ten tournament and March Madness await.
UCLA tapped into something special on Tuesday and now they just need to hold onto it.
Should they do that, they won't just have earned their place in the playoffs, they'll have proved they can beat anyone.
Jordan Teller - The Sporting Tribune
Eric Dailey Jr. #3 of the UCLA Bruins dunks the ball over Berke Büyüktuncel #9 of the Nebraska Cornhuskers during an NCAA basketball game, Tuesday March 3, 2026 in Los Angeles, Calif.
"I think we've just got to take that attitude that we played with tonight... and bottle it up and keep it rolling," junior forward Eric Dailey Jr. said. "Obviously, we've been having the same problems that Coach [Cronin] has been saying, but tonight, this team looked different. The way we played tonight, we keep this same energy and attitude, the plays and the hustle, we'll be fine down the stretch."
Estevao has revealed he chose to join Chelsea over other clubs because he felt he would get more opportunities.
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The Blues fought off interest from a number of Europe’s biggest clubs to agree a deal with Palmeiras for the teenager in the summer of 2024.
Estevao eventually joined Chelsea after the Club World Cup last summer, and has had a positive first season at Stamford Bridge to date.
The 18-year-old is regarded as one of the biggest talents in world football, and he’s scored seven goals and registered three assists in 32 appearances in all competitions.
Estevao is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury, but has arguably looked Chelsea’s most dangerous winger this season.
Estevao has scored seven goals so far this season. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC)
To secure a signing of his calibre was a huge coup for the Blues, and Estevao revealed he chose to join Chelsea as he thought he’d get more opportunities.
“My family went to other clubs but what caught my attention was Chelsea,” he told Sun Sport.
“The project with Chelsea was different because it’s a team that, how can I say, It gives you more opportunities to be in the game.
“I thought Chelsea would be the perfect future for me because it would get me more minutes. I want to be amongst the best players in the world.
“I know my potential and what I can offer to Chelsea and of course to be amongst the best players in the world.”
If one teenage winger wasn’t enough, the Blues have another arriving in the summer in the shape of Geovany Quenda.
Chelsea agreed a deal with Sporting Lisbon for Quenda last year, and fought off competition from Manchester United for his signature.
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Like Estevao, Quenda is regarded as a top prospect, and he’s expected to go straight into the first team squad and compete for minutes next season.
Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:
The Minnesota Vikings canned Kwesi Adofo-Mensah this offseason largely because of his inability to come through in the NFL Draft. He was able to identify some key contributors in free agency and uncover some undrafted gems, but picks often went to waste.
Arguably, the best talent Adofo-Mensah unearthed during the April process was late-round kicker Will Reichard. With Kevin O’Connell, Rob Brzezinski, and Brian Flores now speaking most significantly into the roster, they have to get things right.
With the 18th overall pick, the MN Vikings need to land a day-one starter, and Caleb Banks could be that. He may also wind up being someone who can’t stay on the field, and therefore a massive reach. Banks is considered “boom or bust.”
ESPN Insider Jordan Rein put together a two-round mock after the NFL Combine. A pair of popular prospects are now gone before reaching pick 18, but Banks is there. The talented Florida Gator is a menacing presence, but there are serious warts.
Defensive tackle Javon Hargrave is expected to be released and Jonathan Allen could follow, leaving the Vikings extremely thin along the interior defensive line. At 6-foot-6, 327 pounds, Banks is a towering presence who would give Minnesota a key player inside. The Vikings have gravitated toward explosive athletes like Banks, who jumped 32 inches in the vertical and ran a 5.04-second 40-yard dash in Indianapolis. Banks has an injury history, but he also has plenty of potential and is an ideal fit in coordinator Brian Flores’ defense.
Jordan Reid – ESPN
Minnesota is already done with Hargrave after just one season. They could also cut Jonathan Allen, as Reid mentions, but the cupboard would be incredibly bare.
Either way, the Vikings need to get younger on the interior defensive line. Banks is an intriguing talent because he’d be an immediate difference maker. The only question is whether he can stay on the field.
After suffering a foot injury during camp and then later breaking it, he played in just three games last season for the Gators. In 2024, however, seven of his 21 total tackles were for losses. He also had a whopping 4.5 sacks.
That sort of production is the stuff that Flores would certainly drool over. He plays in both the run and pass game, and Banks can be a stud up the middle. Minnesota needs to make sure it is getting the guy who started 24 games in 2023 and 2024, rather than the one who missed considerable time throughout his collegiate career.
Real Madrid are still dealing with the aftermath of Monday’s shock 0-1 defeat to Getafe at the Santiago Bernabeu. The loss has distanced them from the La Liga leadership battle and added further complications to an already turbulent season.
One of those concerns is the situation surrounding Kylian Mbappe. There has been a lot of uncertainty and lack of clarity surrounding his injury and the manner in which it has been handled so far.
Reports alleged that the French superstar was unhappy with the Real Madrid medical services, which is why he opted to get a second opinion in France, following which the club confirmed that his knee injury was only a sprain that does not require surgery.
Now, according to journalist Anton Meana on Cadena SER, Mbappe’s entourage disagrees with Real Madrid over his recovery timeline.
Mbappe already missed the match against Getafe and the club estimate his recovery at around three weeks. As such, Los Blancos believe he could be available for the second leg of the Champions League round of 16 against Manchester City.
Mbappe’s injury is a major concern for Real Madrid and France. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
However, the France captain’s entourage disagrees with that assessment, suggesting that the forward has a more serious issue than initially indicated, with only 100 days remaining until the World Cup.
“The player’s left posterior cruciate ligament is at its limit,” Meana explained. “We are going to call it a sprain because that is what the medical report says, but the injury is really significant.”
For that reason, the player’s entourage does not accept the recovery timeline set by Real Madrid. His camp insists that the 27-year-old forward needs to recover properly.
Given the situation, the first leg against Manchester City could prove decisive in Mbappe’s decision about whether to accelerate his return for the second leg.
If Real Madrid lose by a sizeable margin at home, it is unlikely that Mbappe will risk his knee to try to overturn it in the return match.
John Aldridge has shared his reaction after Liverpool’s frustrating 2-1 defeat against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League.
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The former striker posted several messages on X during and after the match, reflecting the disbelief many supporters felt as Arne Slot’s side conceded yet another late goal.
Liverpool had dominated large parts of the contest at Molineux but were ultimately punished in stoppage time by Andre’s deflected strike, leaving the reigning champions stunned despite controlling the game for long spells.
Aldridge reacted almost immediately when Wolves opened the scoring: “I smelt that a while ago! I knew it was coming.”
That sense of frustration only grew as the match reached full time.
The former Liverpool No.8 struggled to explain how the Reds had managed to lose a match in which they were largely on top: “Words fail me folks! Unbelievable what we’ve seen there.
“I’m trying to get my head around how we lost that match? There again, that’s why we are 5th in the league I suppose.”
(Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
Looking at the numbers from the match makes the result even harder to understand.
Liverpool finished the game with 66% possession, 19 shots and an expected goals figure of 1.83 compared with Wolves’ 0.44.
Arne Slot’s side also completed 540 passes and created four big chances, yet somehow left Molineux empty handed.
The defeat was made even more painful by the nature of Wolves’ winner, with Andre’s shot taking a huge deflection off Joe Gomez before beating Alisson Becker in the 94th minute.
(Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
Aldridge later returned to social media to highlight the importance of the upcoming FA Cup tie between the two sides: “Big pressure on Friday!
“If we lose in the league and get knocked out of the fa cup by the bottom team in the league, it won’t lie well with the fans.”
Liverpool will therefore have the opportunity for immediate revenge.
Arne Slot has already admitted the upcoming rematch offers the perfect chance for his players to respond after the disappointment of the league defeat.
While frustration is understandable, the performance itself showed reasons for encouragement.
Liverpool created chances, dominated possession and pushed Wolves deep for long stretches, though Steven Gerrard bemoaned mistakes from key players like Virgil van Dijk.
Injuries have clearly played a role in the recent inconsistency.
Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz remain key absentees, while Cody Gakpo has struggled for form and Federico Chiesa continues to fail to make a major impact off the bench.
Even so, the broader picture remains manageable.
Liverpool remain firmly in the race for Champions League qualification, and with plenty of matches still to play this defeat will only increase the determination to respond in the coming weeks.
![#KLUpod | K League 1 Round 1 Recap + Round 2 Preview [From Outside The Box]](https://media.zenfs.com/en/k_league_united_articles_132/408b151b5288df4df91bcbdb998ac20d)
K League 1 returned last weekend and there was plenty of surprises in store for those who caught the curtain-raiser. This week's episode of From Outside The Box takes a look through all the Round 1 action and previews the weekend ahead.
After returning to the commentary booths after a winter hiatus, Matthew Binns, Paul Neat and Alex Jensen talk about shaking off the rust, the perils of the five-minute intro and the mishaps it can lead to.
The trio then go through the four games they commentated on, from Ulsan's mauling of Gangwon, to the headline-grabbing Bucheon FC 1995 and their win over Champions Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors.
From Outside the Box is a relaxed, insight-driven podcast from K League United, proudly sponsored by Record Pizza and TNT FC.
Join K League TV commentators Matthew Binns, Paul Neat, and Alex Jensen as they draw from their weekly notes, observations, and offer peeks into their behind-the-scenes experiences from the commentary box to break down K League 1, offering onest opinions, tactical talk, and real stories from outside the commentary box, every week.
The first few episodes of this new initiative will also be available on The K League United Podcast stream before switching over to the new channels which you can find below:
Yehvann Diouf has not played in Ligue 1 since making his return from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), however, he is expected to replace Maxime Dupé between the sticks when OGC Nice travel to face FC Lorient in the Coupe de France quarter-finals on Wednesday night.
Dupé has surpassed Diouf in the hierarchy at the Allianz Riviera, but Diouf will have the chance to stake a claim on Wednesday night. Nice manager Claude Puel will have to contend with many absentees against Les Merlus. Sofiane Diop is suspended, whilst the likes of Moise Bombito, Isak Jansson, Elye Wahi, Mohamed Abdelmonem, Youssouf Ndaysihimiye, and Hicham Boudaoui are all out either due to injury or fitness concerns. It means that Kevin Carlos is likely to lead the line once again.
Yehvann Diouf; Melvin Bard, Dante, Kojo Peprah Oppong; Antoine Mendy; Charles Vanhoutte, Salis Abdul Samed; Tiago Gouveia, Tom Louchet, Keil Boudache; Kevin Carlos. (L’Éq)
Former Burnley and Brentford defender Ben Mee says Wolves "sensed" Liverpool's weakness in Tuesday's game.
The Old Gold beat the Reds 2-1 to follow up Friday's win over Aston Villa.
"Credit to those Wolves players and credit to Rob Edwards," Mee told BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast.
"I think the substitutions made a real big impact in the game. In the last 20 minutes they were magnificent.
"To go on and win the game after conceding the lead the first time was fantastic for them and it's a great atmosphere there when it gets going.
"When you're playing against a top side you want to find a weakness and if you do sense that you definitely want to go and exploit it.
"Liverpool didn't seem to have the pace, intensity and tempo of recent years.
"I think Wolves and Rob Edwards sniffed that out and sensed it as well with his substitutions that were really positive. They got after the game and believed they could go on and win it which they did."
Listen to the full episode on BBC Sounds
Former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock says he would "enjoy roughing up" the current Reds side if he was playing against them today.
In Tuesday's 2-1 defeat at bottom side Wolves, Arne Slot's side conceded an injury-time winner for the fifth time this season.
"It's slow and it's laboured and every time you watch Liverpool at the moment it's like they need to go a goal behind to lift themselves," Warnock told BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast.
"We're so used to watching a Jurgen Klopp Liverpool in the way they play, and even last year I think they played with a better tempo in the way they attacked teams.
"This season it seems they want to control more and it just allows teams to get set.
"I think if you're playing against them and can get back into position quite quickly, then they are actually easier to play against.
"I don't look at this team and think they're hard to play against whereas last season they were and under Klopp they are.
"Right now they seem a little bit soft. I'd enjoy roughing them up if I was playing against them. Every time there's a tackle they're looking round for a bit of protection from the referee and when you see that you think 'we've got them here'."
Listen to the full episode on BBC Sounds
Remuntada was needed and remuntada it (almost) was. Barcelona wins 3-0 in the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final, but is defeated in the aggregate.
It is Atlético Madrid under Simeone who will play for the trophy in Seville, after 180 and more minutes of madness. The decisive 4-0 at the Metropolitano effectively booked the pass to the grand final for the Colchoneros, although yesterday was far from a walk in the park for Griezmann and company.
At Camp Nou, indeed, Barça gave it their all, going into halftime with a 2-0 lead thanks to goals from Marc Bernal and Raphinha. The scenario Flick wanted, with the Catalans having the entire second half to try to complete the comeback.
Once again, Bernal (yet another product of the cantera blaugrana, just 18 years old) thrilled the home crowd in the 72nd minute, scoring his personal double and bringing the score to 3-0. At that point, anything could happen.
But with the goal from the 2007 class, it wasn't Atlético's hopes that faded, but Barcelona's energy, as they created very little from that moment on, never truly coming close to scoring the goal that would have sent the match to extra time.
Thus, Atlético goes to the final in the most Cholista way possible, with garra and suffering, even after winning the first leg 4-0. For Simeone, it will be the 10th final at the helm of the Colchoneros. It remains to be seen if it will be against Athletic or Real Sos.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.
Steven Gerrard and Jermaine Pennant have both called for Arne Slot to hand Rio Ngumoha a starting berth when Liverpool face Wolves in the FA Cup on Friday night.
Round 1 of this week’s Molineux double header between the two teams went the way of the home side, who secured just their third Premier League win of the season with a stoppage-time goal that James Pearce diplomatically described as a ‘mess’.
It was another game where the 17-year-old was brought on in the second half to replace Cody Gakpo, who endured yet another frustrating night in front of goal, and two former LFC teammates now believe that the teenager should get the nod on the left wing when the teams resume battle later this week.
Speaking on TNT Sports after the game, Gerrard stated: “He has to start Ngumoha now. He’s coming on and doing more in a short space of time than Gakpo is doing in 65-70 minutes, so he deserves to start now. He’s got to start the kid on Friday night.”
Meanwhile, Pennant aired similar views on X as he posted: ‘Rio now must start on Friday night. AGAIN did more than Gakpo when he came on than what Gakpo did the whole game. You know why he did more? [Because] he goes to the byline, he cuts inside, he’s not predictable. WHY on earth isn’t Slot telling him? If every single fan [is] thinking it…’
(Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
While there was some willingness from the Dutchman to run at the Wolves defence in the first half last night, it was by and large another game which passed him by, and he probably cost Curtis Jones a goal when inadvertently blocking the midfielder’s effort from point-blank range shortly after the interval.
In his first Premier League outing to last for than 20 minutes, Ngumoha was lively yet again, and he was unlucky not to score with a curled shot that Jose Sa did brilliantly to tip onto the post.
The figures from Sofascore (see below) compare the impact of the two wingers at Molineux, with the numbers in brackets representing their averages per minute played for each metric.
When factoring in those respective statistics, as well as the quick turnaround to Friday’s fixture and the Champions League trip to Istanbul early next week, there’s a strong case to be made for Ngumoha to be handed a start in the FA Cup clash, just as he was against Barnsley in January.
Slot recently said that he’d be ‘surprised’ if the 17-year-old didn’t get ‘more minutes’ in the near future. Now could be the time for the Liverpool head coach to act upon those words and put his full trust in the teenage talent, who thus far has played in every single game as if his life depended upon it.
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Real Madrid have once again set their sights on Max Allegri, with the Milan manager emerging as a serious candidate for the bench at the Bernabéu.
According to Corriere dello Sport, this is far from the first time the Spanish giants have courted the Italian tactician. Allegri has been on the verge of joining Los Blancos twice before – first in 2019 and more famously in 2021. During that second approach, an agreement with Real Madrid was almost entirely in place before former Juventus president Andrea Agnelli stepped in at the eleventh hour to convince him to return to Turin instead.
Currently, Allegri is settled and happy at Milan, but his long-term future remains subject to a decisive end-of-season evaluation. At the conclusion of the current campaign, the club and the manager will conduct a thorough review of the project to assess the path forward.
While Allegri is keen to continue and has a clear desire to further improve and strengthen the squad, the perspective of the Milan management will be the determining factor. The hierarchy’s vision for the next phase of the project will be crucial in deciding whether Allegri stays to build on his work at the San Siro or finally makes the long-awaited move to Real Madrid.
Kaustubh Pandey I GIFN
Olympique de Marseille will be without Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who captained the side during their win over Olympique Lyonnais on Sunday, as the club prepares to host Toulouse FC in the Coupe de France.
Hojbjerg is suspended for the Coupe de France quarter-final, meaning that the captain’s armband will likely return to defender Leonardo Balerdi. He isn’t the only absentee that Habib Beye must contend with on Wednesday night. Quinten Timber misses out on the game due to a shoulder injury sustained in Marseille’s 3-2 win over Lyon, whilst Amine Gouiri is not yet ready to start. He is not expected to play any part against Le TéFéCé.
The absentees should give a chance for Arsenal loanee Ethan Nwaneri to start in the No.10 role.
Geronimo Rulli; Facundo Medina, Nayef Aguerd, Leonardo Balerdi, Timothy Weah; Geoffrey Kondogbia, Tochukwu Nnadi; Igor Paixao, Ethan Nwaneri, Mason Greenwood; Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. (L’Éq)
19-year-old Noahkai Banks has earned plenty of praise for his performances for FC Augsburg this season, having cemented a starting spot at the heart of their defence.
Other clubs are likely taking notice. According to Kicker, the USMNT defender could command a “high transfer fee” this summer if concrete interest emerges.
Augsburg sporting director Benni Weber is well aware of the young centre-back’s potential.
“It’s a great joy to see how he’s developing, how many decisive moments he has. He will probably play for a very big club one day,” Weber told Kicker.
When asked by Bulinews.com about his dream destination in a recent interview, Banks revealed a special connection to FC Barcelona.
“It's difficult to say. I really enjoy playing in the Bundesliga, to be honest. But there are a lot of great leagues, such as the Premier League, Serie A and La Liga,” he said.
“One of the clubs I idolized while growing up was Barcelona. I think I can say that's my favorite club. So yeah, maybe one day it would be a dream to play for them, but let's see what happens," Banks told Bulinews.com.
With Banks’ contract running until 2029, Augsburg hold a strong negotiating position.
“We have control of the situation; there’s no danger,” Weber stressed.
For now, Banks faces a difficult decision regarding his international future.
Kicker reports that some people at Augsburg are advising him to choose the United States, probably not least considering the potential impact a World Cup squad place could have on his market value.
Hope Gordon remembers looking longingly out of the window of Yorkhill Children's Hospital for day after day as a teenager.
She remembers seeing Glasgow outside. Remembers the SEC Armadillo being in the foreground. Remembers wondering what "the real world" outside the walls of her ward would hold for her.
The 31-year-old might have had to wait almost a couple of decades, but she will get her answer next summer.
Gordon will be part of Team Scotland for the Commonwealth Games in her home country, and will get to compete in the Armadillo in Para-powerlifting.
"To go from being that kid in that hospital bed, looking out of those windows, to actually being able to compete in that venue... it's going to be really special," she tells BBC Sport Scotland.
Glasgow, hospitals and ultimately the amputation of her left leg are a long way from the tiny settlement of Rogart, around 50 miles north of Inverness.
Growing up there, Gordon was always playing one sport or another so a little pain in her left knee was written off as just a natural consequence of that.
But one day, at the age of 12, the leg "stopped working" while she was at school.
"I thought I'd wake up the next day and be fine," she says. "But one year later I was diagnosed with a condition called complex regional pain syndrome."
The following nine years were gruelling. Repeated 450-mile round trips to Glasgow for an assortment of unsuccessful treatments. Hospital stays. Time in a wheelchair. But all the while, Gordon kept playing sport. It was her escape.
At the age of 21, she made the most consequential decision she ever could. "I eventually had it off," she says of her left leg. Partially to stem any spread of the condition, partly to ease the pain, entirely to improve the quality of her life.
"It's the best thing that that ever happened to me," she says. "It really opened up new doors for me and yeah, I've never really looked back."
And how. A swimmer of some repute during her teenage years, Gordon maintained that initially but found herself keen to try something else.
That something would be para-canoeing. "You've still got the the water element and, if you've got a disability, water gives somebody such a sense of freedom because it's easier to move around on water than on land," she says. "It just ticked the boxes."
Soon, she was invited on to the British team, moved to Nottingham and has been there since, winning world medals and Paralympic silver in Paris in 2024.
Gordon even found time to dip into winter sports, going to the 2022 Winter Paralympics as a nordic skier after being cajoled into giving it a go by 2026 Games flagbearer Scott Meenagh.
Canoeing is her main sport, though, to the extent that she will be competing at a World Cup event and World Championships either side of the Commonwealths.
And it is her training for that that led Gordon to choose powerlifting as her means of fulfilling a life's dream of being part of Team Scotland.
"Bench press is one of the key exercises for canoeing so when the programme was announced, I looked at the list and I thought that might be the one," she explains.
"I had to unlearn quite a bit and learn it again but hopefully it will benefit me on the water too."
Gordon is keen to temper medal expectations, insisting these Games are actually about something much bigger for her than podium places.
Having watched some of the swimmers she trained with win gold in 2014 - "I was in the crowd and able to to sing Flower of Scotland three times watching Hannah Miley, Ross Murdoch and Dan Wallace" - she has long wanted to represent Scotland.
"Commies has been such a big dream for me," explains the aspiring bagpiper, sitting in her English home surrounded by Scottish memorabilia. "More so than what some people might argue are bigger goals, like a Paralympics.
"Glasgow is a city that holds a lot of memories for me, but not necessarily for the most positive of reasons. So, the thought of being able to make it more of a positive vibe for my family and friends is going to be a real full circle moment."
Virgil van Dijk did not try and come up with excuses as Liverpool slumped to another stoppage-time defeat at bottom club Wolves.
Andre’s 94th-minute deflected strike proved the difference in a 2-1 win for Rob Edwards’ side, who have now taken points off three of the top five in their last three home outings, despite being doomed for relegation.
Liverpool had already fallen behind once only for Mohamed Salah to end his goal drought and get his side on terms, but his efforts proved in vain as Wolves came away with all three points.
Dealt a blow in their push for Champions League qualification, Van Dijk put full responsibility of the defeat on the team.
"I think it's down to ourselves,” he told TNT Sports. “It was slow, we were predictable, sloppy in possession and wrong decision-making.
“We didn't concede chances but if you perform like that then a result like this can be a result of that and that's a fact. It was disappointing."
Liverpool wasted the first half of the contest at Molineux in what was an action-starved 45 minutes of football, with neither side producing anything resembling a clear-cut chance.
"It's not one reason why that's the case,” Van Dijk responded when asked to explain the slow start. “The game nowadays we over-analyse why things are happening on the pitch.
“We as a team want to start a game as well as we can and in the last game we did, today we had majority possession but we were still making wrong decisions and we couldn't find the end product."
Reds manager Arne Slot, meanwhile, bemoaned his side’s tendency to concede late on this season, having lost five games - against Crystal Palace, Chelsea, Bournemouth, Manchester City and now Wolves - in second-half stoppage-time.
"We hardly conceded a chance, created not so much but more than they did, but the result is again a 2-1 loss,” Slot said.
"We are losing far too many football games and dropping points. Was it again in extra-time that we conceded? The three times we lost in the last 22 games were all three in extra time."
Liverpool return to Molineux to face Wolves in an identical fixture on Friday for their FA Cup fifth-round tie.
Barcelona’s attempt at an unlikely comeback against Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey semifinal did not yield the desired result.
Even though the Blaugrana won 3-0 on Tuesday night in the second leg, the 4-0 defeat in the first leg last month meant that they lost the tie 4-3 on aggregate and ended up getting eliminated from the cup competition.
As if it was already not bad enough, the Blaugrana also saw two important players suffer injuries during the game at the Spotify Camp Nou.
Both Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde had to come off during the game with muscle injuries, and according to SPORT, they are likely to miss Barcelona’s next five matches.
Kounde was forced off after 10 minutes, after he felt discomfort in his right leg and went to the ground. Balde came on to replace the injured Frenchman, with Joao Cancelo moving to right-back from left-back.
However, in the 68th minute, with Barcelona leading 2-0, Balde signalled that he could not continue due to a hamstring issue.
Balde was taken off in the second half. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
It was an unexpected moment that forced Hansi Flick into a swift adjustment, bringing on Ronald Araujo for his 200th appearance for the club. Gerard Martin, who had started as the left-sided centre-back, moved to left-back, his natural position.
It is Kounde’s first injury of the season. Until now, he had played in every match except the La Liga fixture against Celta Vigo, when he remained on the bench. The Frenchman had accumulated 3,008 minutes across 40 appearances up until his injury last night.
As for Balde, this is his second injury of the season, after he had missed nearly a month back in September due to a hamstring problem. He has played 34 matches (2,447 minutes) in all competitions this term.
Both players will undergo medical tests on Wednesday. However, all indications suggest that neither will return before the international break at the end of the month.
They are therefore expected to miss five matches: the Champions League Round of 16 tie against Newcastle United and the La Liga fixtures against Athletic Club, Sevilla and Rayo Vallecano.
An alternative report from Javi Miguel of AS suggests that Balde’s injury might be more severe than Kounde’s. The 22-year-old La Masia product could, thus, be out for several weeks, while the Frenchman could still make it back in time for the Newcastle United tie.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola was full of jokes in his press conference ahead of Wednesday night’s Premier League meeting with Nottingham Forest.
The Blues are searching for a seventh consecutive win in all competitions in midweek as they look to keep up the pressure on Premier League leaders Arsenal, who are five points clear at the top of the table – having played an additional game.
Antoine Semenyo scored the only goal of the game in Manchester City’s 1-0 win over Leeds United at Elland Road at the weekend, with Erling Haaland notably missing the trip after suffering a small training ground injury.
Nico O’Reilly also went off injured after 70 minutes after picking up an ankle knock in Yorkshire, though Guardiola is optimistic of recalling O’Reilly and Haaland to the starting XI against Nottingham Forest.
Manchester City remain in the running for an unprecedented quadruple and every game is a final for Guardiola and co between now and the end of the season, with the Blues also facing Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley on March 22.
In a press conference on Tuesday afternoon, Guardiola was asked whether he will look to reintegrate Haaland into the lineup against Forest on Wednesday night.
“We won 0-1 (against Leeds United), he’s not going to play in any more games until the end of the season. I don’t like Erling,” Guardiola said in a laughing tone.
On a more serious note, the Manchester City manager explained how he has gone about coping without Haaland this term. “During the season injuries happen, you know. Fortunately, we have Erling for a lot, a lot of games,” Guardiola added.
“He scored a lot of goals, (he) was involved in a lot of goals. He’s massively important, but during the year it always happens.
“I would say the only problems we have in the play is to just lose one game or miss one game. Unfortunately, sometimes that doesn’t happen. We’ll see if he’s able tomorrow or for the next game against Newcastle (in the FA Cup fifth round).”
It would make sense for Haaland to return to the starting XI against Forest but Guardiola would be well within his right to give the 25-year-old strike some extra time off as Manchester City embark on the business end of the season.
O’Reilly also remains a doubt against Forest and Guardiola could look to recall Tijjani Reijnders to the lineup as he also aims to rotate his squad to keep his best players fit and firing in the final months of the campaign.
Increasingly, injury time is not Arne time. A night when Wolves could savour an action replay left Arne Slot lamenting the “same old story”. For the second time in four days, head coach Rob Edwards set off down the touchline in manic celebration. Wolves, as their fans had chorused, are bound for the Championship, but on the way they are bloodying the noses of those with ambitions of Champions League qualification. First Aston Villa and now Liverpool have fallen at Molineux.
For Slot, the sense of déjà vu was depressing. His side are record breakers in the wrong sense, the first team in Premier League history to lose five matches in a season due to 90th-minute goals. “The three times we lost in the last 22 games were all three in extra time,” Slot said after Wolves, like Bournemouth and Manchester City before them, struck at the death. Include the late equalisers Fulham and Leeds got and Liverpool have let nine points slip through their grasp in injury time. It may cost them Champions League football.
Liverpool could call their latest setback cruel, when the decider needed a deflection, when they had hit the woodwork twice. “That it happens in extra time might be a coincidence but it happens so many times,” said Slot. Once again, it calls into question Liverpool’s game management.
For him, there were further familiar themes, another occasion when Liverpool dominated possession, had more shots, had the better of the statistics beyond the scoreline. “We hardly give away a chance but they score two,” he rued.
Yet Virgil van Dijk did not plead misfortune. “I think it's down to ourselves,” said the Liverpool captain. “It was slow, we were predictable, sloppy in possession and [guilty of] wrong decision-making.” It was an excoriating verdict but scarcely an exaggeration.
Defeat came late but Liverpool could trace it to their sluggish start. Even as they picked up the pace, even as Mohamed Salah ended a Premier League goal drought that had extended over four months, even though Wolves did not attempt a shot of any kind until their opening goal, Liverpool arguably did too little over the course of a match that was three-quarters forgettable fare, one quarter frenetic entertainment.
Wolves began frustrating Liverpool with their obduracy and ended doing it with their attacking. They began compact and organised, four central midfielders and three centre-backs forming a solid block. But Edwards rationalised the game would open up and made influential substitutions.
Two combined for the breakthrough with a second goal in as many games for the man who finished off Villa. Rodrigo Gomes had only been on the pitch for eight minutes when he struck. A fellow replacement, Tolu Arokodare, was too strong for Van Dijk, turning him and supplying on the on-rushing Gomes to dink a shot over Alisson.
After Salah levelled, as Liverpool committed men forward in the search for a winner, so did Wolves. After Alisson’s poor kick, Andre’s shot looped up off Joe Gomez and left the goalkeeper helpless. Wolves, the team with the four Gomeses, got the decisive touch from a Gomez. “We conceded a deflected shot, which was not even a chance,” said Slot.
Liverpool are nevertheless left to consider the prospect their struggles against their supposed inferiors will cost them a top-five finish. They have lost to Nottingham Forest and Wolves this season, drawn with Burnley and Leeds. Some 12 points have escaped their grasped in those games.
When it seemed they had salvaged something at Molineux, it was when Salah briefly turned back time. There are times, even when their powers are waning, when the greats can summon a little of their old selves. Hitherto ineffectual, Salah then darted into a gap and improvised a finish which he flicked with the outside of his left foot. Jose Sa got his left hand to it, but the ball nestled in the net. Salah’s 253rd Liverpool goal was his first in the Premier League since November.
Perhaps, though, it summed up the current Salah that it did not prevent defeat. Liverpool had struck the woodwork twice, in distinctly different fashion. A couple of minutes before Salah struck, Rio Ngumoha’s low shot was brilliantly turned on to the post by Sa. Just after half-time, a combination of Curtis Jones’s shoulder and Cody Gakpo’s boot turned the ball on the bar after Hugo Ekitike had flicked on Salah’s corner. After three goals from set-pieces against West Ham on Saturday, Liverpool ought to have had another.
But they mustered too little else. “What didn’t change in the last five, six seven games is that we struggle and find it very hard to score from open play chances that we do create,” admitted Slot. Nor did they create enough.
This was a game that was crying out for Ngumoha long before his introduction, though, at 64 minutes, it was the earliest he had come on in the Premier League. Gakpo, though, had been poor as a starter.
And Wolves finished with a flourish; on the night and perhaps over the season. After one win all season, they have two in a week. “We are showing we are not as bad as people thought,” said Edwards, whose touchline dash showed the emotional relief of victory and brought pain, though not the sort Slot was feeling. “It's my groin this time,” the Wolves manager said. “I'm falling apart.”
Grand Casino Arena will be filled to the brim at various points this week as fans descend on St. Paul to watch the Minnesota boys high school hockey state tournament in person.
But for those hoping to view the action from afar on your TV, computer or phone, you have plenty of options to do so across Minnesota, from the Twin Cities to Duluth, Rochester and beyond.
Here’s where you can find the action on various devices
Twin Cities: 5.2
Duluth: 10.2
Rochester/Austin: 6.2
Alexandria: 42.2
Redwood Falls: 43.2
Bemidji: 28.2
Park Rapids: 32.2
Wadena: 17.2
Brainerd: 16.2
Twin Cities: KSTC 45TV
Duluth: MeTV
Iron Range: MeTV
Southeast Minnesota: Start TV
Download the KSTP 5 app
Download the KSTP 5 app
Click on this link, or visit https://kstp.com/45tv/prep45/mshsl-tournaments/#streamingplayer
HIGH SCHOOL SOCCER
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REGIONAL PLAYOFFS
TUESDAY’S FIRST ROUND RESULTS
BOYS
DIVISION I
#1 Mater Dei 2, #8 Santa Monica 0
#4 El Camino Real 1, #5 Placentia Valencia 0
#3 Del Norte 4, #6 JSerra 1
#2 Orange Lutheran 3, #7 St. Augustine 2
DIVISION II
#8 Sultana 3, #1 Torrey Pines 2
#4 San Pascual 4, #5 Anaheim Canyon 0
#3 Fontana 4, #6 Hilltop 1
#2 Mira Monte 0, #7 Birmingham 0 (Mira Monte wins 4-1 in shootout)
DIVISION III
#1 Bishop Amat 1, #8 Godinez 0
#4 Palisades 1, #5 Bakersfield Liberty 1 (Palisades wins 3-2 in shootout)
#6 Los Alamitos d. #3 Bonita Vista, forfeit
#7 Mt. Carmel 2, #2 Newport Harbor 1
DIVISION IV
#1 Irvine University 4, #8 Animo Leadership 2
#5 Chatsworth 4, #4 Bakersfield 1
#6 Santa Ana Valley 3, #3 La Jolla 1
#2 Granite Hills 2, #7 Esperanza 0
DIVISION V
#1 Ontario Christian 2, #8 LA Roosevelt 0
#5 Kern County Taft 2, #4 North Hollywood 1
#3 Garfield 1, #6 Orange County Pacifica Christian 1 (Garfield wins 5-4 in shootout)
#7 San Diego Lincoln 3, #2 Pasadena Poly 1
GIRLS
DIVISION I
#1 Santa Margarita 2, #8 Eastvale Roosevelt 2 (SM wins 3-2 in shootout)
#4 Cleveland 2, #5 Redondo Union 0
#6 Oaks Christian 1, #3 Mt. Carmel 0
#2 Mater Dei 5, #7 North County San Marcos 0
DIVISION II
#8 Westview 1, #1 Newport Harbor 0
#5 Sherman Oaks Notre Dame 3, #4 Carlsbad 0
#3 Garces Memorial 1, #6 Granada Hills 0
#2 Westlake 1, #7 La Costa Canyon 0
DIVISION III
#1 Del Norte 4, #8 Palisades 3
#4 Quartz Hill 3, #5 El Diamante 0
#3 Ayala 7, #6 Crescenta Valley 2
#2 Millikan 7, #7 Tulare Western 0
DIVISION IV
#8 Segerstrom 1, #1 Birmingham 1 (Segerstrom wins 4-2 in shootout)
#5 Coachella Valley 3, #4 Ramona 2
#3 San Jacinto 1, #6 Mission Vista 0
#7 Del Sol 0, #2 Immaculate Heart 0 (Del Sol wins 4-3 in shootout)
DIVISION V
#8 Coastal Academy 1, #1 Ocean View 0
#5 Bravo 2, #4 Webb 1
#3 Delano Kennedy 2, #6 Marquez 2 (Kennedy wins in shootout)
#2 Santa Monica Pacifica Christian 4, #7 Sun Valley Poly 3
Note: Semifinals 1 p.m. or 5 p.m. Thursday at higher seeds; Finals 1 p.m. or 5 p.m. Saturday at host sites; State Championships March 13-14 at Matomas High in Sacramento (times TBA).
This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
LOS ANGELES — There are pretty wins, and then there are necessary wins. Tuesday night at Crypto.com Arena fell squarely into the second category.
With under five minutes remaining and the Pelicans clinging to a 94-93 lead, the Lakers looked disjointed, turnover-prone and in danger of letting one slip. Then came the pivot.
Austin Reaves buried a right-wing three to give the Lakers a 96-94 edge. On the next trip, Luka Dončić drove hard into the paint, absorbed contact that went unwhistled and finished anyway — roaring back at the referee as the ball dropped through. It wasn’t subtle. It was emotional. It was the spark.
The Lakers never looked back.
MARCUS 4 👌 #Lakers are on a 19-4 run!!! pic.twitter.com/SnlktWg7D9
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) March 4, 2026
They closed the game on a 24-7 run, outscoring New Orleans by 17 over the final seven minutes to secure a 110-101 win — their third straight. In a game that felt chaotic for long stretches, they were clinical when it mattered most.
At 17-5 in clutch games, the Lakers now own the best clutch win percentage in the NBA. Dončić pointed to something simple afterward.
“Purpose,” he said of the fourth-quarter surge.
And even he admitted it wasn’t pretty.
“Sometimes you gotta win by playing bad, that’s what good teams do,” Dončić said. “Obviously wasn’t our best game but we got the win.”
Luka’s Edge — and the Line He’s Walking
Dončić finished with 27 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists in 38 minutes, shaking off seven turnovers and a 3-for-10 night from deep. With under a minute left, he drilled the dagger three and — yes — let the officials hear about it again.
His technical foul was his 14th of the season. Two more means an automatic suspension, with 21 games remaining. This was just his first since Jan. 20. The balance between fire and control will matter. Especially with the standings tightening.
The Big Three — Imperfect, Effective
It wasn’t a masterpiece from the Lakers’ stars, but it was enough. LeBron James added 21 points, seven rebounds and seven assists in 33 minutes, though he committed five turnovers and shot 1-for-5 from three. He now sits at 15,835 regular-season field goals — just three shy of passing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (15,837) for the all-time record.
LEBRON JAMES SLAM DUNK pic.twitter.com/mN959PZpfU
— Lakers Empire (@LakersEmpire) March 4, 2026
Head coach JJ Redick made it clear there will be no stat-chasing.
“I wouldn’t coach a basketball game that way to try to get a guy a record,” Redick said. “He’ll get his record, and we’re trying to win a basketball game.”
James echoed the team-first tone when asked about lineup combinations with Dončić and Reaves.
“If I’m on the court, I just play with whoever’s on the floor with us. I don’t analyze lineups. It’s my job no matter who I’m on the floor with to try to make it happen.”
Reaves, meanwhile, contributed 15 points, seven rebounds, two steals and two blocks — and perhaps the most honest quote of the night when discussing defending Zion Williamson.
“Don’t be scared to get out of the way, I was terrified,” Reaves said. “There was no way in hell I was taking a charge. He was running too fast. I just kind of slid out the way & let him have a layup.”
Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting Tribune
New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) dunking the basketball during an NBA basketball game against the Los Angeles Lakers on March 3rd, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.
Defense, Energy and 12 Blocks
The Lakers forced the issue defensively, finishing with 12 total blocks — every starter recorded at least one. The Pelicans had just three. They generated 28 fast-break points to New Orleans’ 18 and survived 22 turnovers by compensating with rim protection and late-game execution.
James thought the defensive strides were real.
“I think we’ve made some strides defensively,” James said. “The man-to-man defense was pretty good. Jaxson and Marcus were great on that end and then everybody else trickled in as well.”
Smart and Hayes Change the Game
Marcus Smart described it as “chaotic.” He wasn’t wrong. But he also changed it.
Smart finished with 10 points, seven assists and four steals in 30 minutes, hounding ballhandlers and battling Zion throughout. Redick didn’t mince words.
“He gave us life tonight,” Redick said.
Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting Tribune
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) gesturing at referees during an NBA basketball game against the New Orleans Pelicans on March 3rd, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.
Smart called it collective toughness.
“We were all in there, sacrificing our body,” Smart said. “Not once did anybody start freaking out or start panicking.”
On one sequence, guarding two players, Smart anticipated a pass and jumped the lane for a steal — the type of instinctual play that has defined his career.
“That’s what I do,” Smart said. “My mind works in that way and I made a great play for my team.”
Jaxson Hayes brought similar energy off the bench: eight points, six rebounds, two blocks and four critical offensive boards in 23 minutes.
“He’s a good basketball player that frankly, consistently injects energy into the group,” Redick said. Later, he added that Smart and Hayes “changed the game.”
Deandre Ayton was efficient as well, posting 13 points, eight rebounds and two blocks in 25 minutes.
The Bigger Picture
The Lakers improved to 37-24, just a half-game out of the fifth seed and only 1½ games behind third in the West. With 21 games remaining, the margin for error is thin — and nights like Tuesday, messy as they are, carry weight.
But when it tightened, they executed with purpose.
Sometimes that’s the mark of a team growing into something more than highlight reels and stat lines. A team learning how to close. And right now, the Lakers are closing.
Changes are coming to the Buffalo Bills defense, though we aren’t entirely sure what they’re going to be.
Head coach Joe Brady admitted at the scouting combine last week that, “I've been sitting in the defensive meetings really trying to get a feel of how we do things” because his entire coaching career to this point has been spent on the offensive side of the ball. Thus, when asked direct questions about what new defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard’s defense will be put together, Brady hasn’t really had definitive answers.
And in his one press conference since being hired, neither did Leonhard, though at that point it was way too early because he was still familiarizing himself with the Bills’ returning personnel and determining how they would fit into his 3-4-based scheme.
That’s why it’s a little difficult to predict what the Bills will be shopping for when the free agency negotiation window opens Monday, followed two days later by the official start of the new league year when free agents can sign with teams.
Assuming no surprise trades or releases, the Bills have a solid nucleus of players returning on defense, led by linemen Greg Rousseau, Ed Oliver, Deone Walker, TJ Sanders and Michael Hoecht, linebackers Terrel Bernard and Dorian Williams, and defensive backs Christian Benford, Maxwell Hairston, Taron Johnson and Cole Bishop.
There will be some positional tweaking - for instance, will Rousseau and Hoecht both become stand-up outside linebackers/edge rushers? - and there will be changes in responsibilities compared to the 4-3 scheme that Sean McDermott ran across nine seasons, but that group of players should be able to find their niches in Leonhard’s scheme.
However, there are still needs that president/general manager Brandon Beane must address either in free agency or the draft because while there are talented players still on the team, Buffalo’s defense has too often failed in the big moments, especially in the postseason.
Here are seven players the Bills might consider signing to augment the new defense, with contract projections gleaned from Spotrac and Pro Football Focus:
▶ Previous teams: Texans (2016-19), Bengals (2020-23), Lions (2024-25).
▶ Age: Turns 32 in July.
▶ Height/Weight: 6-foot-3/330 pounds.
▶ Spotrac market projection: Two years, $7.7 million.
▶ Pro Football Focus projection: One year, $4.5 million.
Again, we don’t really know what Leonhard wants to do with the defensive line, but if he structures it similarly to the way Vance Joseph did in Denver where Leonhard just spent two years, the Bills won’t line up a traditional nose tackle over the center all that often. Still, with Oliver and Sanders both weighing less than 300 pounds, they need a nose tackle-type or one-tech player who will be stout in the middle and Reader fits the bill.
He’s not the force he was during his days with the Bengals, but across two seasons with the Lions Reader started 32 games and played more than 500 snaps both years. He has been a consistent presence as a run defender, and while he won’t provide much of a pass rush, he can push the pocket and create space for players like Oliver, Sanders and Walker who would likely be flanking him in the 4i positions.
▶ Previous teams:Rams (2019-21), Chargers (2022-23), 49ers (2023), Titans (2024-25).
▶ Age: Turns 31 in March.
▶ Height/Weight: 6-foot-4/310 pounds.
▶ Spotrac market projection: One year, $6.9 million.
▶ Pro Football Focus projection: One year, $6.5 million.
Beane likes to do one-year contracts and both Reader and Joseph-Day would be ideal candidates. I felt the same way last year as I thought Joseph-Day would have been a good fit for Buffalo in free agency, but he re-signed for one year with Tennessee and played 46% of the snaps with 41 tackles, two sacks, 19 QB pressures and a fumble recovery.
There were 41 DTs who played at least 250 run defense snaps and Joseph-Day’s 28 stops - defined by PFF as a tackle that constituted a failed play for the offense - ranked tied for 13th. In 2024, there were 38 DTs who played at least 250 run snaps and his 29 stops were 11th-most.
▶ Previous team:Seahawks (2022-25).
▶ Age: Turns 28 in November.
▶ Height/Weight: 6-foot-4/261 pounds.
▶ Spotrac market projection: Three years, $36.7 million.
▶ Pro Football Focus projection: Three years, $49 million.
The Bills have taken swings on older edge rushers like Von Miller and Joey Bosa and the results were middling at best, but Mafe could change that. He looks like a ready-made player in a 3-4 scheme as a standup OLB/edge to pair with Rousseau and/or Hoecht. With Seattle last year, he lined up almost equally on both sides of the formation.
Despite playing only 340 pass rush snaps, he still registered 40 QB pressures, though the result was only two sacks after he had 15 sacks combined the previous two seasons. I think that’s what brings his price down a bit behind top-of-market guys like Trey Hendrickson, Jaelan Phillips, and Odafe Oweh. One thing that’s very impressive is his 6.5% missed tackle rate which was fourth-lowest among all edge rushers, and his athleticism really shows in his ability to track down plays from behind.
▶ Previous team: Chiefs (2022-25).
▶ Age: Turns 26 in October.
▶ Height/Weight: 6-foot-3/250 pounds.
▶ Spotrac market projection: Three years, $13.9 million.
▶ Pro Football Focus projection: Two years, $12 million.
Chenal has been widely speculated for Buffalo from the moment Leonhard was hired as Leonhard was the defensive coordinator at Wisconsin for Chenal’s entire career there. He will be familiar with how Leonhard wants things done, and he’s coming off four seasons in Kansas City where he started 44 of 65 games and totaled 218 tackles, seven sacks, one interception and three forced fumbles. He also started five of 10 postseason games.
Chenal would give the Bills much-needed size at the second level playing next to 225-pound Terrel Bernard and he does a little of everything - effective in coverage and as blitzer, and he holds up well against the run - which is why he ranked 19th in PFF’s linebacker grades in 2025. The market projections seem a bit low, so it wouldn’t be a surprise if he gets into the $7 or $8 million per year range, but that would still be well worth it for a player so young.
▶ Previous team: Broncos (2021-25).
▶ Age: Turns 30 in August.
▶ Height/Weight: 6-foot-3/235 pounds.
▶ Spotrac market projection: Two years, $7.6 million.
▶ Pro Football Focus projection: Two years, $8 million.
Another player with ties to Leonhard who coached him his last two seasons with the Broncos which makes him an enticing, reasonably low-cost option. Strnad was 17th in PFF’s overall LB grades last year, just ahead of Chenal, and that’s because he’s the superior blitzer. In the last two seasons he had 7.5 sacks and 29 pressures on just 147 pass rush snaps.
Strnad played 31% of defensive snaps as a rookie in 2021, then was a special teams only player for two years before emerging in 2024, the year Leonhard arrived in Denver. In the last two years he started 16 of 33 games and played around 58% of the snaps and 2025 was by far his best season, so he’s a player on the rise hitting the market.
▶ Previous team:Colts (2022-25).
▶ Age: Turns 25 in September.
▶ Height/Weight: 6-foot/212 pounds.
▶ Spotrac market projection: Four years, $24.2 million.
▶ Pro Football Focus projection: Three years, $35 million.
That’s a pretty big disparity in market value, so perhaps the answer is somewhere in between, but wherever it lands, Cross is a really nice under-the-radar player to pair up with Cole Bishop. He’s coming off a disappointing season so that could also reduce his market, and that wouldn’t be a bad thing for the Bills, especially for someone so young.
He has started all 34 games the last two years and totaled 266 tackles, four interceptions, 3.5 sacks and two forced fumbles and has been a willing run defender playing the bulk of his time as a box safety. Bishop played 275 box snaps in 2025, but he’s better suited at free safety where he played 449, so Cross would be the right compliment.
▶ Previous team: Cardinals (2019-25).
▶ Age: Turns 28 in July.
▶ Height/Weight: 5-foot-11/190 pounds.
▶ Spotrac market projection: Two years, $18.9 million.
▶ Pro Football Focus projection: Two years, $19 million.
After toiling in Arizona for seven years where he played in just one postseason game (2021), one would imagine Thompson is pining to join a Super Bowl contender, and the Bills would love to have him because he has the kind of versatility they will covet as he can play free safety, box safety, and at slot corner.
He’s a little undersized, but that certainly hasn’t been a detriment as he’s been one of the best tackling safeties in the NFL. Last year he made 95 tackles in 15 games and his missed tackle percentage of 6.4 was 11th-lowest out of 107 safeties.
Sal Maiorana has covered the Buffalo Bills for more than four decades including 36 years as the full-time beat writer/columnist for the D&C. He has written numerous books about the history of the team, and he is also co-host of the BLEAV in Bills podcast/YouTube show. He can be reached at maiorana@gannett.com, and you can follow him on X @salmaiorana and on Bluesky @salmaiorana.bsky.social.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Buffalo Bills free agent signings 2026: 7 defenders to target
The 100-day countdown to the World Cup launch has passed, it's here!
The 2026 World Cup begins in 99 days. Let's celebrate with a special World Cup edition of FC Ptit Déj!
This Tuesday, exactly 100 days before the start of the World Cup, a participating team unveiled its home jersey for the competition.
This team is South Africa. And the jersey, crafted by Adidas, is amazing!
The official X account of the World Cup released a cool video where several players who will compete in the next World Cup reveal their legends of the competition.
Some great players are mentioned!
- OFFICIAL: Rodrygo out for the World Cup!
- Rodrygo's first words after the announcement of his terrible injury
8:30 PM: Aston Villa vs Chelsea (Canal + Live)
8:30 PM: Brighton vs Arsenal (Canal + Live)
8:30 PM: Manchester City vs Nottingham Forest (Canal + Live)
8:30 PM: Lorient vs Nice (beIN Sports)
9 PM: OM vs Toulouse (beIN Sports)
9:15 PM: Newcastle vs Manchester United (Canal + Foot)
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.
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At the ITB Berlin 2026 conference, various experts discussed the complex issues that the world tourism industry is currently facing, especially with the geopolitical environment that the world is in today. In a keynote address, the former German Foreign Minister, Joschka Fischer, urged the tourism sector to adapt to the changing world environment. The world has become increasingly volatile, with geopolitical tensions, conflicts, and natural disasters, but the tourism sector must ensure safety and unique experiences.
A New Geopolitical Landscape Impacting Travel
Fischer’s speech painted a grim picture of the current global political landscape. He noted that the days of a rules-based international order are over, with major world powers such as the United States, China, and potentially India shaping global dynamics. This shift in power poses new challenges for the tourism sector, which has traditionally thrived in more stable geopolitical environments.
The rise of conflict, shifting alliances, and the growing influence of non-democratic powers have the potential to disrupt travel. Tourists, particularly those seeking luxury and safety, may hesitate to visit regions experiencing heightened geopolitical tension. The political instability in regions such as the Middle East, exemplified by the Iran-Israel conflict, underscores the risks travelers face when choosing destinations.
Tourism Must Adapt to Geopolitical Risks
As conflicts and natural disasters become more frequent, Fischer urged the travel industry to not only be aware of these risks but to integrate crisis management into their operational frameworks at the ITB Berlin 2026 conference. The industry’s response to crises, including war, political instability, and natural disasters, must be proactive and well-coordinated. In his remarks, Fischer recalled the lack of preparedness during the 2004 tsunami in Thailand, where not only travelers but also embassy and consulate staff were caught off guard during the Christmas holidays.
This lack of preparedness highlighted a crucial gap in crisis management protocols within the tourism industry. Fischer’s comments served as a call to action for the sector to develop more robust crisis response systems, ensuring that when geopolitical events impact a region, travelers are not left vulnerable. Crisis management in tourism should not be reactive but proactive, with clear guidelines in place to address emerging threats in real-time.
Ensuring Traveler Safety: A Priority for the Tourism Industry
Tourists are becoming more discerning when it comes to safety, and the tourism industry must respond by offering greater transparency about the risks associated with certain destinations. In light of recent geopolitical events, including the ongoing tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran, many tourists are reassessing their travel plans. The notion of “luxury travel” is evolving, with travelers now expecting safety and security to be prioritized just as much as amenities and experiences.
The ongoing conflict in the Gulf region, particularly between Iran and its neighbors, has cast a shadow over travel to popular tourist spots in the area. The threat of violence, such as drone attacks on hotels in the Gulf, is a stark reminder that political tensions can directly impact tourist destinations. This presents a unique challenge for the tourism industry, which must adapt by prioritizing traveler safety and offering clear communication about the risks of visiting certain regions.
Adapting Travel Planning to Crisis Management
The tourism industry must also adopt a more flexible approach to crisis management, particularly in destinations prone to political instability or natural disasters. With unpredictable geopolitical events and natural disasters a constant threat, tourism businesses should incorporate flexibility into their booking systems, offering travelers the ability to cancel or change their plans without severe financial consequences. Additionally, travel insurance providers must continue to adapt by offering policies that address geopolitical risks, providing peace of mind to travelers.
Adapting travel planning to include contingency options will help mitigate the impact of unforeseen crises, such as war or natural disasters. Travel providers can enhance the customer experience by offering assurances that, in case of an emergency, they will facilitate alternative arrangements, ensuring a safe journey home.
Crisis Response in the Face of Political Instability
The recent political instability in the Middle East serves as a crucial example of how the tourism industry can learn from past crises and better prepare for future ones. Countries such as Israel, Iran, and the surrounding Gulf states have long been at the center of political tensions, and these conflicts are now extending to impacts on tourism. However, with growing concerns about safety, travelers are increasingly turning away from these regions in favor of safer, more stable destinations.
The tourism industry must be proactive in identifying potential risks and adjusting its marketing and planning strategies accordingly. Destinations in conflict zones, or those vulnerable to geopolitical instability, must implement systems that ensure travelers’ safety while offering them a seamless experience if situations change. At the same time, promoting destinations that offer security, peace, and positive experiences will continue to attract visitors seeking both adventure and reassurance.
Leveraging Technology for Better Crisis Management
As the global tourism industry continues to grow, technology will play an increasingly critical role in ensuring that travelers are informed and safe. Advanced AI-driven platforms can provide real-time updates on the political climate, weather conditions, and any emerging risks. These technologies can help travelers make informed decisions before embarking on their journeys, offering live alerts and updates about geopolitical events that may impact their travel plans.
Airlines, travel agencies, and online booking platforms can leverage these technologies to provide customers with up-to-date information about their destinations, offering transparency and ensuring travelers are aware of potential risks. Additionally, AI can assist in managing crisis responses, enabling tourism providers to act quickly and efficiently in the event of a natural disaster or political conflict.
The Future of Tourism: Focusing on Sustainability and Adaptability
Despite the challenges posed by geopolitical instability and environmental disasters, tourism remains a vital sector for many economies. Fischer’s remarks pointed to the inevitability of conflict and instability but also emphasized the enduring appeal of travel. Even in uncertain times, people will continue to seek new experiences, explore different cultures, and enjoy the restorative power of travel.
The tourism industry’s ability to adapt to these challenges will be key to ensuring its resilience. The future of tourism lies in offering safe, sustainable, and adaptable travel experiences that prioritize both the health of the planet and the well-being of travelers. As geopolitical risks continue to shape the travel landscape, businesses must remain vigilant, responsive, and proactive in their crisis management strategies, ensuring that tourism remains a force for positive global engagement despite the changing times.
A Resilient and Safe Future for Tourism
In conclusion, the tourism industry has to be ready for changes and be willing to make the necessary adaptations to the changing geopolitics of the 21st century. By strengthening the strategies for managing crises, ensuring the safety of tourists, and embracing the changing technologies, the tourism industry will be able to withstand the storm of political and natural crises. The continued evolution of the travel industry will require collaboration, flexibility, and foresight to make sure that tourists have the best experience regardless of the changing geopolitics of the world.
The post Geopolitical Shifts and Their Impact on Tourism: Challenges for Travel in the Middle East and Gulf Region, Here’s All You Need to Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
In an impressive start to 2026, Spain’s tourist accommodation sector saw a 3.6% increase in overnight stays for January, showcasing the growing demand for alternative lodging options such as apartments, hostels, and camping sites. A significant part of this growth is attributed to the digital nomad wave, with international remote workers flocking to Spain to escape the harsh northern-European winters. This trend highlights Spain’s growing appeal as a remote work hub, making it a prominent player in the global tourism market. Additionally, the country’s focused efforts on promoting rural tourism have paid off, with regions like the Canary Islands seeing record-breaking occupancy rates. As Spain positions itself as a destination for long stays, it continues to outperform its competitors, including Portugal and Greece, while maintaining quality over quantity in tourism.
The remote-work trend has made Spain one of the most attractive destinations for digital nomads. According to Spain’s National Statistics Institute (INE), overnight stays in non-hotel accommodations such as rural lodges and campsites were up by 1.9% in January 2026, driven by international visitors. Among these, Germany stood out as the primary source market, with German remote workers opting for the Canary Islands and other Spanish rural destinations to enjoy the winter months. This surge in international stays highlights Spain’s growing position as the leading destination for remote work in Europe, outpacing traditional hotspots like Portugal and Greece.
Spain’s strategic Digital Nomad Visa has played a pivotal role in attracting long-stay visitors, with accommodation providers in rural Spain reporting increased demand and higher prices. Catalonia, Castilla y León, and Andalusia have seen substantial increases in bookings, particularly in self-catering and non-traditional accommodations, where digital nomads are drawn to a combination of affordable living and scenic work environments.
Spain’s push for off-season tourism has found an eager audience. Rural tourism has experienced an extraordinary 24% increase in January 2026, defying traditional seasonal patterns. Destinations such as Castilla-La Mancha, Galicia, and the Pyrenees have capitalized on this growth, attracting both domestic and international travelers who are looking to escape crowded tourist hotspots. Visitors are increasingly choosing to explore hidden gems and local villages that offer a unique cultural experience, organic food, and stunning landscapes.
This surge is in line with Spain’s slow travel initiative, encouraging tourists to extend their stays in rural areas, rather than opting for short trips to over-saturated cities. These trends are also supported by government tourism campaigns that emphasize sustainability, authenticity, and community engagement. As a result, local economies are thriving as tourists seek to immerse themselves in the Spanish lifestyle and spend time in traditional rural accommodations like cottages, farms, and bed-and-breakfasts.
When it comes to long-term stays, the Canary Islands remain the crown jewel of Spain’s tourism market. With nearly 2.4 million apartment nights logged in January, the region boasts an occupancy rate close to 90%. The islands’ appeal is not just limited to sun-seekers; it has now become a hub for digital nomads due to its mild climate, high-speed internet, and co-working spaces. These factors have positioned the Canary Islands as a top destination for people seeking a balance between work and leisure.
The region has seen a remarkable increase in international visitors from countries like Germany, France, and the UK, all of whom are opting for longer stays during the colder months. The influx of remote workers has created a boom in alternative accommodation types, including luxury apartments and well-connected Airbnb-style homes.
The introduction of Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa has proven to be a game-changer for the tourism sector. With more people embracing the concept of work-from-anywhere, Spain’s visa program is gaining attention worldwide. The visa allows non-EU citizens to live and work in Spain for up to one year, with the possibility of extension. This has made Spain an increasingly popular destination for location-independent professionals, particularly those looking for a base in Europe.
The long-stay visitors arriving under this program have contributed to a steady rise in accommodation bookings, especially in areas outside Spain’s main cities. These regions are benefiting not only from the increase in foreign arrivals but also from higher spend as digital nomads tend to stay longer and spend more compared to traditional tourists.
As demand increases, accommodation costs in some of Spain’s most popular regions are on the rise. Rural and insular areas such as the Canary Islands and Balearic Islands are seeing higher rates, particularly in apartments and holiday homes, as local businesses capitalize on the influx of remote workers. While this trend signals a thriving tourism market, travelers are advised to book their stays well in advance to secure competitive rates.
It’s worth noting that although average daily rates (ADR) have increased by 1.4%, this rise is relatively moderate compared to other European destinations, which are experiencing even steeper price hikes. However, it’s still important for tourists to keep an eye on pricing trends, particularly in rural areas that have limited accommodation options and may not offer the same flexibility in terms of availability and broadband infrastructure.
For digital nomads planning to base themselves in Spain, here are some travel tips to make the most of your stay:
Kyoto, Japan, is taking a bold step to address the issue of overtourism and its impact on the city’s public transportation system. The city is moving forward with a two-tier bus pricing system, which will significantly reduce fares for residents while increasing them for tourists. The initiative is designed to alleviate overcrowding during peak tourist seasons and to fund new transportation improvements. This move, announced by Kyoto Mayor Matsui Koji on February 25, 2026, aims to strike a balance between easing the burden on residents and managing the strain caused by an influx of international visitors.
The new “citizen priority pricing” system will lower bus fares for Kyoto residents to just 200 yen ($1.30), a decrease from the current flat fare of 230 yen. The new pricing system will be implemented across the entire city by fiscal year 2027, including areas where fare rates vary by distance. The city’s goal is to ensure that public transportation is more affordable and accessible for residents, especially in the face of rising tourist numbers.
To qualify for the discounted rate, Kyoto residents will need to use a transit IC card linked to their My Number, Japan’s national identification number system. This means that cash-paying passengers, even locals, will not be eligible for the discount. While the policy aims to provide financial relief to residents, tying the discount to a national ID system may exclude some locals who haven’t yet registered for a My Number card, raising potential concerns about fairness and accessibility.
Under the new system, tourists and non-residents will face a significantly higher fare of 350 to 400 yen per ride, nearly double the price paid by locals. The move comes as a response to the growing problem of overcrowded buses in Kyoto, particularly during peak tourist seasons when buses are often full, making it difficult for residents to use the system.
Tourists visiting Kyoto, one of Japan’s most popular cultural and historical destinations, are expected to be the primary group impacted by the fare increase. With attractions like the Golden Pavilion, Kiyomizu-dera, and Fushimi Inari-taisha drawing large crowds, bus services often become overwhelmed, particularly with the increasing number of foreign visitors to Japan. The introduction of higher fares for tourists is seen as a necessary measure to better manage this strain and ensure that residents can continue to rely on public transit for their daily needs.
Kyoto’s two-tier pricing system is part of a broader effort to tackle overtourism, a challenge that many popular destinations around the world have been grappling with. In addition to the price differentiation, the city has taken other measures in the past to mitigate overcrowding. For example, Kyoto introduced a tourist-only bus line to cater specifically to visitors, ensuring that they have access to transportation without further burdening local services.
By increasing fares for tourists, Kyoto aims to reduce the number of visitors relying on public transport, encouraging some to seek alternative modes of travel, such as private tours or taxis. The additional revenue generated from the higher fares will also be used to fund improvements to the public transport system, ensuring that it can continue to meet the needs of residents and visitors alike.
While the introduction of the two-tier pricing system has been welcomed by some, it also raises concerns about potential legal challenges. Japanese law prohibits “unjust discriminatory treatment” of passengers based on nationality or other factors. However, a representative from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism’s passenger division stated that the policy appears to have “a certain degree of rationality” as a countermeasure to overtourism. This suggests that the government supports Kyoto’s initiative as a reasonable approach to managing the growing pressure on its public transportation system.
The fact that the government has signaled support for the policy is a promising sign that it may withstand any legal challenges. However, it remains to be seen whether any adjustments will need to be made in response to feedback from residents, tourists, or legal bodies.
The two-tier pricing system is not just a transportation policy but also a statement about how Kyoto is adapting its tourism strategy to balance the needs of residents and visitors. As one of Japan’s top tourist destinations, Kyoto attracts millions of visitors each year. The city’s government has long been aware of the challenges posed by mass tourism and is actively working to create a more sustainable model for its tourism sector.
In addition to the bus fare changes, Kyoto has been working on various initiatives to improve its infrastructure, including expanding and upgrading transportation networks, creating more sustainable tourist experiences, and promoting less crowded attractions outside of the main tourist hotspots.
The introduction of the two-tier bus pricing system represents a significant step forward in Kyoto’s efforts to manage overtourism while providing a better experience for both residents and visitors. As the city continues to grow as a tourism hub, it will likely face additional challenges in managing the balance between welcoming tourists and preserving the quality of life for locals.
For travelers, the higher bus fares could be a small price to pay for the opportunity to experience one of Japan’s most iconic cities. However, for travel professionals, the policy presents an important consideration when advising clients on how to navigate Kyoto during peak tourist seasons.
As Kyoto’s tourism strategies continue to evolve, the city’s ability to balance growth with sustainability will be crucial in ensuring that it remains an attractive and accessible destination for years to come.
Kyoto’s decision to implement a two-tier bus pricing system is a bold move in the ongoing effort to address overtourism. By charging tourists higher fares and offering discounts to residents, the city is working to alleviate congestion, improve the public transit system, and create a more sustainable tourism environment. This innovative approach may serve as a model for other cities struggling with similar challenges, offering valuable lessons on how to manage the balance between local needs and tourist demands.
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West Asia and the Gulf are burning as the US-Israel-Iran war fire triggers global travel chaos, and the shockwaves are spreading faster than the conflict itself. Airports, airlines and travellers are now facing a crisis that is rapidly unfolding across the aviation map. Dubai, Doha and Tel Aviv flights collapse, and commercial and freight airlines across Europe, Asia and the Americas enter new crisis mode. This is no longer just a regional war story. It has quickly become a global travel emergency. As the US-Israel-Iran war fire triggers global travel chaos, airlines scramble to reroute aircraft, airports struggle to manage disruptions, and travellers across Europe, Asia and the Americas watch flight schedules change in real time.
Meanwhile, West Asia and the Gulf are burning, and the aviation corridor that connects continents is suddenly under pressure. Dubai, Doha and Tel Aviv flights collapse again, and commercial and freight airlines across Europe, Asia and the Americas enter new crisis mode, creating uncertainty for the entire global travel network. Now aviation experts warn that if the US-Israel-Iran war fire continues to trigger global travel chaos, the ripple effects could reshape airline routes, tourism demand and cargo flows worldwide.
This is a rapidly evolving story from the Middle East. Travel And Tour World urges readers to follow the full report and understand how West Asia and the Gulf burning could redefine global travel.
( @realDonaldTrump – Truth Social Post )
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( Donald J. Trump – Mar 01 2026, 4:06 PM ET ) pic.twitter.com/0ODp3AqBy0TRUTH POSTS (@TruthTrumpPosts) March 1, 2026
The Iran war involving Iran, Israel, and the United States has created one of the most serious disruptions to global travel in recent years. The Middle East sits at the centre of the world’s aviation map. Flights connecting Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas frequently pass over Iran, Iraq, and the Gulf region. When conflict erupts in this corridor, the impact spreads rapidly across the entire aviation system. Airlines depend on these air routes because they are shorter and more efficient. Once tensions rise and missile threats appear, aviation regulators immediately warn airlines to avoid the region. As a result, carriers begin cancelling flights or rerouting aircraft. Airports experience delays, passengers become stranded, and airlines lose millions of dollars each day. Travel companies also face uncertainty because tourism demand falls when safety concerns increase. This crisis shows how closely travel is connected to geopolitics. Even a regional war can trigger global travel disruption.
Update from CENTCOM Commander on Operation Epic Fury: pic.twitter.com/epEohq64Vf
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 3, 2026
| Statistic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Flights cancelled | Over 11,000 flights cancelled or disrupted globally |
| Passengers affected | More than 1 million travellers impacted |
| Tourism decline estimate | Middle East tourism could fall 11–27% in 2026 |
| Oil price increase | Energy prices increased roughly 25–30% amid tensions |
| Airline rerouting time | Flights extended by 1–3 hours on average |
| Private evacuation flights | Charter jets costing up to €200,000 per flight |
| Major airports disrupted | Over 30 international airports affected |
Airspace closures are usually the first and most immediate response when conflict begins. In the Iran war, several countries across the Middle East quickly restricted or shut their airspace to civilian aircraft. Governments made this decision to prevent passenger planes from flying near missile launches, drone activity, or military operations. Countries such as Iran, Israel, Iraq, Qatar, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates imposed restrictions on civilian aviation. These closures forced airlines to change flight paths instantly. Instead of flying directly across the region, aircraft must now detour around restricted airspace. Some flights travel north through Central Asia, while others fly south across the Arabian Sea. These detours increase travel time and fuel consumption. For airlines operating long-haul flights, even small route changes can disrupt complex schedules. When multiple countries close their skies at once, global aviation becomes extremely complicated. Airports across several continents begin experiencing delays because aircraft cannot follow their normal routes.
| Airport | Country | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai International (DXB) | UAE | Flight suspensions and rerouting |
| Zayed International (AUH) | UAE | Limited operations |
| Hamad International (DOH) | Qatar | Airspace restrictions |
| Bahrain International (BAH) | Bahrain | Delays and cancellations |
| Kuwait International (KWI) | Kuwait | Operational disruption |
| Ben Gurion (TLV) | Israel | Flights suspended |
| Imam Khomeini (IKA) | Iran | Civil aviation shutdown |
| Mehrabad Airport | Iran | Limited domestic flights |
| King Khalid International (RUH) | Saudi Arabia | Route adjustments |
| King Abdulaziz International (JED) | Saudi Arabia | Schedule disruptions |
| Queen Alia International (AMM) | Jordan | Airline rerouting |
| Muscat International (MCT) | Oman | Repatriation flights |
| Beirut International (BEY) | Lebanon | Evacuation warnings |
| Istanbul Airport (IST) | Turkey | Transit disruptions |
| London Heathrow (LHR) | UK | Route changes |
| Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) | France | Flight rerouting |
| Frankfurt Airport (FRA) | Germany | Asia route delays |
| Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) | Netherlands | Flight cancellations |
| Delhi Indira Gandhi (DEL) | India | Europe flight changes |
| Mumbai Airport (BOM) | India | Rerouted long-haul flights |
Within days of the conflict escalating, thousands of flights were cancelled across the Middle East and beyond. Airlines had to suspend operations quickly because safety conditions changed rapidly. Major aviation hubs such as Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi experienced widespread cancellations. These airports are not only regional airports; they are global transit centres connecting flights between continents. When operations slow down at these hubs, airlines around the world must adjust schedules. Flights that normally connect through Gulf airports cannot continue because passengers cannot transfer safely. As a result, cancellations spread across airline networks globally. Travellers flying between Europe and Asia were among the most affected because their routes often rely on Middle Eastern transit hubs. Airports across Europe and Asia began reporting delayed departures and stranded passengers. Airlines also faced heavy financial losses because each cancelled flight represents lost revenue and additional operational costs.
Airlines quickly began suspending routes across the Middle East after aviation authorities warned about security risks. Modern military conflicts often involve advanced missile systems capable of reaching high altitudes. This creates serious risks for civilian aircraft flying through nearby airspace. To protect passengers and crew, airlines suspended flights to destinations such as Tehran, Tel Aviv, Beirut, and some Gulf airports. Several major airlines, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, Air France, British Airways, Air India, and IndiGo, either cancelled flights or diverted aircraft away from the region. Some carriers also suspended flights entirely until the security situation improves. Airline safety departments constantly monitor intelligence reports and government advisories. If risk levels rise even slightly, airlines must react quickly. Route suspensions create a ripple effect across global travel because aircraft scheduled for these routes must be reassigned elsewhere. Passengers then need to rebook flights through alternative destinations.
| Airline | Routes Affected | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Emirates | Dubai–Europe / Asia | Rerouted and limited |
| Etihad Airways | Abu Dhabi–Europe / Asia | Suspensions |
| Qatar Airways | Doha global network | Reduced operations |
| FlyDubai | Gulf regional routes | Limited flights |
| Lufthansa | Europe–Middle East | Cancelled |
| Air France | Paris–Gulf | Suspended |
| KLM | Europe–Asia via Gulf | Rerouted |
| British Airways | London–Tel Aviv / Gulf | Suspended |
| Air India | India–Europe | Cancelled or rerouted |
| IndiGo | India–Central Asia | Suspended |
| Cathay Pacific | Hong Kong–Europe | Detours |
| Singapore Airlines | Asia–Europe | Rerouting |
| Turkish Airlines | Europe–Asia via Middle East | Delays |
| Delta Air Lines | US–Middle East | Suspended |
| American Airlines | US–Israel | Cancelled |
One of the most visible impacts of the Iran war on travel has been the large number of stranded passengers worldwide. Travellers who were already in the region when the conflict escalated suddenly found themselves unable to return home. Airports across the Middle East saw thousands of passengers waiting for information about cancelled flights. Governments quickly began organising repatriation operations to evacuate citizens from affected areas. These operations involve coordination between airlines, embassies, and local authorities. Special flights are arranged to transport travellers back to their home countries when airspace conditions allow. In some cases, passengers had to travel to neighbouring countries by land before boarding evacuation flights. Private charter flights also became popular among wealthy travellers trying to leave quickly. However, these options are extremely expensive and not available to most people. The evacuation process highlights how quickly international travel can become complicated during geopolitical crises.
The Iran war has also triggered economic consequences that affect airlines worldwide. One of the most important factors is the increase in global oil prices. The Middle East plays a central role in global energy markets. When conflict threatens oil production or shipping routes, energy prices usually rise. Airlines are particularly sensitive to fuel costs because aviation fuel represents one of their largest operating expenses. Even a small increase in fuel prices can significantly affect airline profitability. As oil prices rise, airlines must decide whether to absorb the extra cost or increase ticket prices. In many cases, passengers eventually face higher fares. Rising fuel costs also make longer flight routes more expensive. Because airlines are already rerouting flights to avoid conflict zones, they are burning more fuel than usual. This combination of longer routes and higher fuel prices creates financial pressure for the aviation industry.
Tourism is often one of the first industries to suffer during geopolitical conflicts. Travellers tend to avoid destinations located near war zones because of safety concerns. As news about the Iran war spread, many tourists cancelled trips to the Middle East. Countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain depend heavily on tourism revenue. Hotels, airlines, and tour operators across the region are already reporting declining bookings. International conferences and business travel events may also be postponed or cancelled. Tourism economies rely on stability and confidence among travellers. When conflicts appear in global headlines, that confidence disappears quickly. Even destinations not directly involved in the conflict can experience fewer visitors because travellers perceive the entire region as unsafe. If the war continues for an extended period, the economic impact on tourism could reach billions of dollars in lost revenue across the Middle East.
The Iran war has forced airlines to rethink many of their traditional flight routes. Aviation networks are carefully designed to maximise efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and minimise travel time. However, when airspace becomes unsafe, airlines must abandon these optimised routes. Aircraft travelling between Europe and Asia often cross Iranian or Iraqi airspace because it offers the shortest path. Now many of these flights must detour through Central Asia, the Mediterranean, or the Arabian Sea. These changes add hours to flight times in some cases. Longer routes also require careful planning because pilots must comply with strict work-hour regulations. Airlines may need to assign additional crew members to longer flights. These operational challenges increase costs and complicate scheduling. Over time, airlines may permanently redesign some routes if geopolitical tensions remain high in the region.
Safety concerns remain the primary reason airlines avoid conflict zones. Civil aviation authorities monitor global conflicts closely and issue warnings to airlines when risks increase. These warnings may recommend avoiding certain airspace entirely. Missile systems and military radar activity create serious hazards for civilian aircraft. Airlines must analyse intelligence reports before deciding whether it is safe to continue operating in a region. Insurance companies also play a role because they may increase premiums for flights passing near conflict zones. Higher insurance costs further discourage airlines from flying through dangerous airspace. The aviation industry learned difficult lessons from previous incidents where civilian aircraft were mistakenly targeted during military conflicts. Today airlines prefer to reroute flights rather than risk passenger safety. This cautious approach helps prevent tragedies but also contributes to widespread travel disruption.
The Iran war illustrates how fragile the global travel system can be when geopolitical tensions escalate. Aviation networks depend heavily on international cooperation and open airspace. When conflicts arise, airlines must adapt quickly to maintain safety and operational stability. The travel industry has faced several major crises in recent decades, including terrorist attacks, pandemics, and economic recessions. Each crisis forced airlines and tourism businesses to develop new strategies for resilience. The current conflict may lead to further changes in how airlines plan routes and manage risk. Governments may also strengthen international aviation safety regulations. While the global travel industry will eventually recover, the Iran war reminds travellers and policymakers that geopolitical stability plays a crucial role in keeping the world connected.
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Europe’s air travel network is facing significant disruption as a wave of flight cancellations and delays spreads across major airports in the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany and several other European countries. According to the latest aviation data, 244 flights have been cancelled and 855 delayed, affecting travelers moving through key international hubs such as London Heathrow, Madrid–Barajas, Berlin Brandenburg, Lisbon, Zurich and Copenhagen. The disruption is impacting both short-haul European routes and long-haul international services, creating longer waiting times and potential itinerary changes for passengers. Airlines including British Airways, Ryanair, Finnair, Swiss International Air Lines, Austrian Airlines and Eurowings are managing schedule adjustments as they work to maintain operations across their networks. With Europe serving as one of the world’s busiest aviation regions, delays at major transit hubs are quickly rippling across the continent’s travel system, forcing thousands of travelers to monitor flight updates and reconsider connection plans.
London Heathrow Airport (LHR): Travel Disruptions Impact International Passengers
London Heathrow Airport (LHR), one of Europe’s busiest global aviation hubs, is experiencing notable travel disruptions with 52 flights cancelled and 110 delayed, creating significant inconvenience for international and transit passengers. The operational disruption is affecting both short-haul European routes and long-haul flights connecting the United Kingdom with North America, Asia, and the Middle East. As a major transfer point for global travelers, delays at Heathrow are likely to trigger missed connections and extended waiting times for passengers relying on tightly scheduled itineraries. Airlines operating through the airport are adjusting schedules and managing aircraft rotations as travelers continue to face longer transit times and potential itinerary changes across one of the world’s most important travel gateways.
Manchester Airport (MAN): Regional Travel Routes Face Disruptions
Manchester Airport (MAN), one of the United Kingdom’s key international and regional aviation hubs, is witnessing travel disruptions with 12 flights cancelled and 44 delayed, affecting both domestic and international passengers. The delays are impacting routes connecting northern England with major European destinations as well as long-haul services to North America and the Middle East. As Manchester serves as a major gateway for travelers outside London, the cancellations and delays are creating schedule adjustments for airlines and longer waiting times for passengers. Travelers using Manchester as a transit point may also experience missed connections and itinerary changes as airlines work to stabilize operations and manage flight schedules.
Dublin International Airport (DUB): Flight Disruptions Affect Transatlantic and European Travel
Dublin International Airport (DUB), a key aviation gateway linking Ireland with Europe and North America, is facing travel disruptions with 12 flights cancelled and 37 delayed, impacting passengers across several international routes. The delays are particularly significant for travelers using Dublin as a major transatlantic hub, where the airport handles numerous flights between Europe and the United States as well as connections to the United Kingdom and mainland Europe. The cancellations and schedule changes are leading to longer transit times and potential missed connections for passengers, while airlines continue adjusting operations to manage the disruptions and maintain flight schedules across one of Ireland’s busiest travel gateways.
Adolfo Suarez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD): Major Delays Disrupt European and Long-Haul Travel
Adolfo Suarez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD), Spain’s largest aviation hub and a key gateway connecting Europe with Latin America and global destinations, is experiencing notable travel disruptions with 17 flights cancelled and 119 delayed. The high number of delays is affecting both short-haul European routes and long-haul international services, leading to longer waiting times and schedule adjustments for travelers passing through the airport. As Madrid–Barajas serves as a critical transit point for passengers traveling between Europe, the Americas, and other regions, the disruptions are increasing the risk of missed connections and extended layovers. Airlines operating at the airport are working to manage flight rotations and accommodate affected passengers as operations gradually stabilize across Spain’s busiest travel gateway.
Barcelona International Airport (BCN): Flight Disruptions Affect European Travel Routes
Barcelona International Airport (BCN), one of Spain’s busiest aviation gateways and a major hub for European leisure and business travel, is experiencing operational disruptions with 19 flights cancelled and 63 delayed, affecting passengers across several routes. The disruptions are impacting both regional European connections and international services, leading to longer waiting times and potential schedule adjustments for travelers. As Barcelona remains a key destination for tourism and a transit point for flights across Southern Europe and the Mediterranean, the cancellations and delays are creating challenges for passengers with connecting itineraries. Airlines operating through the airport are continuing to manage flight schedules while travelers face possible itinerary changes and extended travel times.
Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO): Travel Delays Disrupt Rome’s International Gateway
Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO), Rome’s primary international aviation hub and one of Italy’s busiest travel gateways, is experiencing operational disruptions with 18 flights cancelled and 50 delayed, affecting passengers on both European and long-haul routes. The disruptions are impacting travelers connecting through Rome to destinations across Europe, North America, and the Middle East, resulting in longer waiting times and potential itinerary adjustments. As Fiumicino plays a critical role in Italy’s international air travel network and serves as a major transit hub for global passengers, the cancellations and delays are creating travel uncertainty, particularly for those with connecting flights. Airlines operating through the airport are working to manage schedules and accommodate affected travelers as operations continue to adjust.
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER): Flight Disruptions Affect European Travel Connections
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), Germany’s main aviation hub serving the capital region, is facing travel disruptions with 11 flights cancelled and 40 delayed, impacting passengers across several European routes. The disruptions are affecting both outbound and inbound travel, leading to longer waiting times and potential schedule changes for passengers flying through the airport. As Berlin Brandenburg connects Germany with major cities across Europe and beyond, the cancellations and delays are creating challenges for travelers with tight connections and planned itineraries. Airlines operating at the airport are adjusting schedules while passengers navigate delays across one of Germany’s key travel gateways.
Zurich Airport – Kloten (ZRH): Travel Delays Impact European and Intercontinental Routes
Zurich Airport – Kloten (ZRH), Switzerland’s busiest international aviation hub, is experiencing travel disruptions with 16 flights cancelled and 56 delayed, affecting passengers across several European and long-haul routes. As a major gateway connecting Switzerland with key destinations across Europe, North America, and Asia, the disruptions are leading to longer waiting times and possible itinerary adjustments for travelers. The cancellations and delays are particularly challenging for passengers relying on Zurich as a connecting hub, where tight transit schedules are common. Airlines operating through the airport are managing flight rotations and assisting affected travelers as operations continue to stabilize at one of Europe’s important transit airports.
Vienna International Airport (VIE): Flight Disruptions Affect Central European Travel
Vienna International Airport (VIE), Austria’s primary aviation gateway and an important hub for Central and Eastern European travel, is experiencing operational disruptions with 11 flights cancelled and 31 delayed, affecting passengers across multiple routes. The disruptions are impacting both regional European connections and long-haul flights, leading to longer waiting times and possible itinerary adjustments for travelers. As Vienna serves as a key transit point linking Western Europe with destinations in Eastern Europe, the cancellations and delays are creating challenges for passengers with connecting flights. Airlines operating through the airport are working to manage schedules and assist travelers as operations continue amid the travel disruptions.
Warsaw Frederic Chopin Airport (WAW): Flight Disruptions Affect Regional and International Travel
Warsaw Frederic Chopin Airport (WAW), Poland’s largest and busiest aviation hub, is facing travel disruptions with 11 flights cancelled and 30 delayed, affecting passengers on both regional European and international routes. The disruptions are impacting travelers using Warsaw as a connecting point between Central and Eastern Europe and other global destinations, resulting in longer waiting times and potential changes to travel itineraries. As the airport plays a crucial role in Poland’s international air travel network, the cancellations and delays are creating challenges for passengers with connecting flights and tight schedules. Airlines operating through the airport are adjusting flight operations while assisting travelers navigating the disruptions at one of Eastern Europe’s key aviation gateways.
Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL): Flight Disruptions Impact Nordic Travel Routes
Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL), Norway’s main international aviation hub and a key gateway for Nordic travel, is experiencing operational disruptions with 14 flights cancelled and 34 delayed, affecting passengers across several regional and international routes. The disruptions are impacting flights connecting Scandinavia with major European cities and long-haul destinations, leading to longer waiting times and potential itinerary changes for travelers. As Oslo Gardermoen serves as a critical transit point for passengers traveling within Northern Europe and beyond, the cancellations and delays are creating challenges for those with connecting flights and tightly scheduled journeys. Airlines operating through the airport are adjusting schedules as travelers navigate the ongoing disruptions.
Copenhagen Airport (CPH): Travel Disruptions Affect Scandinavian and European Routes
Copenhagen Airport (CPH), Denmark’s largest aviation hub and a major gateway for travel across Scandinavia and Europe, is experiencing operational disruptions with 12 flights cancelled and 45 delayed, impacting passengers across several routes. The delays are affecting both short-haul European connections and long-haul international services, leading to extended waiting times and possible itinerary adjustments for travelers. As Copenhagen serves as an important transit hub linking Northern Europe with destinations across the continent and beyond, the cancellations and delays are creating challenges for passengers with connecting flights. Airlines operating through the airport are working to manage schedules while travelers continue to navigate disruptions across one of Scandinavia’s busiest travel gateways.
Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS): Travel Disruptions Affect Lisbon’s International Flight Network
Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), Lisbon’s main international aviation hub and a key gateway connecting Europe with the Atlantic and South America, is experiencing travel disruptions with 12 flights cancelled and 55 delayed, affecting passengers across several routes. The delays are impacting both regional European connections and long-haul services, leading to longer waiting times and possible itinerary adjustments for travelers passing through the airport. As Lisbon plays an important role in transatlantic travel and tourism flows, the cancellations and delays are creating challenges for passengers with connecting flights and scheduled departures. Airlines operating through Humberto Delgado Airport are working to manage flight schedules while travelers navigate disruptions at one of Portugal’s busiest travel gateways.
Madeira International Airport (FNC): Flight Cancellations Disrupt Island Travel Plans
Madeira International Airport (FNC), the primary gateway to Portugal’s popular Atlantic island destination, is experiencing travel disruptions with 18 flights cancelled and 7 delayed, affecting passengers traveling to and from the island. The higher number of cancellations is particularly impactful for travelers, as Madeira relies heavily on air connectivity for tourism and regional travel. The disruptions are affecting routes linking the island with mainland Europe, leading to itinerary changes and extended waiting times for passengers. With limited flight frequencies compared to major mainland hubs, cancellations at Madeira International can significantly affect travel plans, leaving airlines working to accommodate affected passengers and adjust schedules for arrivals and departures.
Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO): Extensive Delays Disrupt International Travel Through Moscow
Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO), one of Russia’s busiest aviation hubs and a major gateway connecting Europe and Asia, is experiencing significant travel disruptions with 9 flights cancelled and 134 delayed, affecting passengers across a wide range of international and domestic routes. The unusually high number of delays is creating longer waiting times for travelers and increasing the likelihood of missed connections, particularly for passengers using Moscow as a transit point for long-haul journeys. As Sheremetyevo handles a large volume of connecting flights between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, the disruptions are impacting airline schedules and travel itineraries, with carriers working to manage operations and assist passengers navigating extended delays at the airport.
British Airways: Flight Cancellations and Delays Disrupt International Travel Plans
British Airways is experiencing operational disruptions with 19 flights cancelled and 37 delayed, affecting passengers across several domestic and international routes. As one of the United Kingdom’s largest carriers operating extensive networks across Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East, the disruptions are creating longer waiting times and potential itinerary changes for travelers. Many passengers relying on British Airways for connecting flights through major hubs such as London are facing schedule adjustments and the risk of missed connections. Airlines and airport authorities continue to manage flight rotations and assist affected travelers as operations work toward stabilizing amid the travel disruptions.
Eurowings: Minor Delays Impact Short-Haul European Travel
Eurowings is experiencing minimal operational disruption with no flight cancellations and 3 delayed flights, causing only limited impact on travelers across its short-haul European network. As a low-cost airline primarily serving regional and leisure destinations across Germany and Europe, the small number of delays suggests that most of its flight operations are continuing as scheduled. However, even minor delays can affect passengers with tight connections or time-sensitive travel plans. Travelers flying with Eurowings are advised to monitor flight updates and arrival times while the airline continues maintaining largely stable operations across its European routes.
Ryanair: Limited Delays Affect European Budget Travel Routes
Ryanair is experiencing minimal operational disruption with no flight cancellations and 7 delayed flights, causing only a modest impact on passengers traveling across its extensive European low-cost network. As one of Europe’s largest budget airlines connecting hundreds of cities across the continent, the delays are primarily affecting short-haul routes popular with leisure and regional travelers. While most flights continue to operate normally, passengers with tight connections or time-sensitive itineraries may experience slightly longer waiting times. Travelers flying with Ryanair are advised to keep checking flight updates as the airline continues to maintain largely stable operations across its busy European route network.
Finnair: Operations Largely Stable With Minor Delay
Finnair is experiencing minimal disruption with no flight cancellations and only 1 delayed flight, indicating largely stable operations across its network. As Finland’s flagship carrier connecting Northern Europe with major destinations across Asia, Europe, and North America, the limited delay suggests that most of its flights are continuing to operate smoothly. For travelers, this means minimal impact on itineraries and connecting flights, especially for those transiting through Helsinki Airport, which serves as a key gateway between Europe and Asia. Passengers flying with Finnair are still encouraged to monitor flight updates, but overall travel operations remain steady across the airline’s international routes.
Swiss International Air Lines: Operations Remain Stable With Minimal Delay
Swiss International Air Lines is experiencing very limited operational disruption with no flight cancellations and only 1 delayed flight, indicating largely stable travel operations across its network. As Switzerland’s flagship carrier connecting major European cities with long-haul destinations across North America, Asia, and the Middle East, the minimal delay suggests that most flights are operating according to schedule. For travelers, this means limited impact on travel plans and connections through key hubs such as Zurich and Geneva. Passengers flying with Swiss can expect largely smooth journeys, though checking flight updates remains advisable as airlines continue monitoring operations.
Austrian Airlines: Minimal Delay as Travel Operations Remain Stable
Austrian Airlines is experiencing minimal disruption with no flight cancellations and only 1 delayed flight, indicating largely stable operations across its network. As Austria’s flagship carrier connecting Vienna with major destinations across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North America, the limited delay suggests that most flights are continuing to operate on schedule. For travelers, this means little impact on travel itineraries and connecting flights through Vienna International Airport, a key transit hub for Central and Eastern Europe. Passengers flying with Austrian Airlines can expect largely smooth travel while continuing to monitor flight updates for any operational adjustments.
Overall, the latest travel data shows that Europe’s aviation network is experiencing noticeable disruptions across both airports and airlines, impacting passengers traveling across major international and regional routes. Several key airports reported significant operational challenges. London Heathrow Airport (LHR) recorded 52 cancellations and 110 delays, while Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) saw 17 cancellations and 119 delays, creating pressure on Europe’s busiest travel corridors. Other major airports also reported disruptions including Barcelona (19 cancellations, 63 delays), Rome Fiumicino (18 cancellations, 50 delays), Zurich (16 cancellations, 56 delays), Lisbon (12 cancellations, 55 delays), Copenhagen (12 cancellations, 45 delays), Manchester (12 cancellations, 44 delays), and Oslo (14 cancellations, 34 delays). Meanwhile, Berlin (11 cancellations, 40 delays), Vienna (11 cancellations, 31 delays), and Warsaw (11 cancellations, 30 delays) faced moderate disruptions. Island destination Madeira Airport recorded 18 cancellations and 7 delays, while Moscow Sheremetyevo experienced the highest delay volume with 134 delayed flights and 9 cancellations, indicating significant operational strain.
Airline operations also reflected a mixed picture. British Airways reported 19 cancellations and 37 delays, making it the most impacted carrier in this dataset. In contrast, several European airlines maintained relatively stable operations, with Ryanair reporting 7 delays, Eurowings reporting 3 delays, and Finnair, Swiss International Air Lines, and Austrian Airlines each reporting only 1 delayed flight with no cancellations. In total, the airports listed reported over 232 flight cancellations and more than 800 delays, while the airlines mentioned recorded 19 cancellations and around 50 delays. For travelers, this means that while the broader European aviation network continues to function, disruptions at major transit hubs such as London, Madrid, Rome, Zurich, Lisbon, and Moscow are creating longer waiting times, potential missed connections, and schedule adjustments across multiple international routes.
Although some airlines are reporting minimal disruption, even a small number of delays can affect travelers with tight connections or multi-segment journeys. Large airlines like British Airways, which operate extensive international networks, are more likely to see noticeable operational adjustments due to the complexity of their flight schedules.
Travel experts generally advise passengers to:
The widespread disruptions across these airports highlight how Europe’s interconnected aviation network can quickly experience ripple effects when major hubs face operational pressure. Even moderate delays in large transit airports can lead to missed connections, rescheduled flights and extended airport waiting times for passengers.
Travelers flying through these major hubs are being advised to check flight updates frequently, allow extra time for connections, and stay flexible with travel plans as airlines work to stabilize operations.
With Europe remaining one of the busiest aviation regions in the world, even temporary disruptions across hubs like Heathrow, Madrid, Rome, Zurich, Copenhagen and Moscow can impact thousands of journeys and reshape travel schedules across continents.
The latest figures highlight how disruptions at major European airports can quickly affect travel across multiple countries and airline networks. With 244 flights cancelled and 855 delayed, airports such as London Heathrow, Madrid–Barajas, Zurich, Lisbon, Copenhagen and Berlin are experiencing operational pressure that is reshaping travel schedules across the region. For airlines including British Airways, Ryanair, Finnair and other European carriers, managing aircraft rotations and passenger connections has become a key challenge as delays ripple through interconnected flight networks. Even when airlines maintain largely stable operations, disruptions at busy transit hubs can trigger missed connections, longer layovers and last-minute itinerary changes for travelers. As Europe remains one of the busiest aviation corridors in the world, travelers flying through major hubs are advised to stay updated on airline notifications, allow additional time at airports and remain flexible with travel plans while airlines and airport authorities continue working to stabilize operations.
Source:- FlightAware and Different Airports
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Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach, has taken a significant step to strengthen its operational leadership with the introduction of a new Director of Operations. This move underscores the property’s commitment to delivering superior service and maintaining its status as the largest Ritz-Carlton Residences globally, featuring 552 luxurious guest accommodations.
The newly appointed Director of Operations will be responsible for the smooth management of all daily operations across key departments, including Front Office, Housekeeping, Guest Services, Guest Relations, Spa and Recreation, Loss Prevention, and Food & Beverage. Leading a workforce of over 250 staff members, the role ensures cohesive coordination among teams, upholding the property’s reputation for refined service and attention to detail.
Luxury hospitality of this scale demands a leader capable of balancing operational precision with personalized guest experiences. The Director of Operations will oversee every facet of service delivery, ensuring that operational processes are efficient and that staff are empowered to provide highly tailored experiences. Beyond day-to-day management, the role also involves strategic planning, identifying opportunities for innovation, and implementing procedures that continuously elevate guest satisfaction.
The appointment brings extensive international experience in managing luxury properties, reflecting a career dedicated to enhancing service standards and operational excellence. The new leadership combines a track record of optimizing large-scale operations with a strong focus on team development, mentoring, and cultivating high-performing staff. Recognition from industry benchmarks such as Forbes Travel Guide underscores a consistent history of maintaining and exceeding luxury hospitality standards.
At a property like Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach, operational leadership is central to ensuring guests enjoy a seamless, high-quality experience from arrival to departure. Each department contributes to the overall impression, and the Director of Operations ensures that Front Office procedures, housekeeping routines, dining services, wellness offerings, and recreational experiences all operate in harmony. The role requires constant attention to detail, anticipating guest needs, and ensuring that every interaction reflects the property’s luxury positioning.
Staff development is a critical component of the Director of Operations’ responsibilities. By fostering a culture of mentorship and professional growth, the role helps managers and employees refine their skills and cultivate leadership capabilities. Motivated, knowledgeable, and engaged teams form the foundation for delivering the high standards of service that guests expect from a luxury property. This focus on human capital ensures continuity in excellence and supports long-term organizational stability.
Operational efficiency extends across multiple dimensions, including resource management, workflow optimization, and safety protocols. The Director of Operations implements processes to streamline housekeeping, front desk functions, food and beverage operations, and spa and recreational activities. Each initiative contributes not only to smoother daily operations but also to an elevated guest experience, demonstrating the property’s commitment to excellence at every level.
The evolving expectations of luxury travelers also shape the operational strategy. Personalized experiences, cultural awareness, and anticipatory service are increasingly vital for differentiating in the hospitality sector. The Director of Operations leads initiatives to integrate technology, refine service delivery, and enhance overall guest engagement, ensuring that Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach remains a standard-bearer for innovation and exceptional service.
The property’s scale and complexity make leadership a vital element in sustaining its position as a premier destination. With 552 rooms, multiple dining venues, wellness and recreational facilities, and extensive residential-style amenities, operational oversight requires a leader capable of strategic thinking and hands-on involvement. The Director of Operations serves as the central figure orchestrating these elements, aligning staff and resources to maintain consistency, efficiency, and exceptional service quality.
Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach, combines the comfort and privacy of residential living with the meticulous service of a five-star hotel. The Director of Operations ensures that every guest interaction—from check-in procedures to spa experiences—is executed flawlessly, reflecting a property-wide commitment to excellence. By integrating strategic leadership with operational oversight, the role strengthens the property’s ability to provide unique, memorable experiences that meet and exceed guest expectations.
With this leadership appointment, the property reinforces its focus on operational strength, service innovation, and team development. By overseeing complex operations, supporting professional growth among staff, and ensuring seamless guest experiences, the Director of Operations contributes to the long-term success and reputation of Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach.
As luxury standards continue to rise, this appointment positions the property to respond proactively to the expectations of discerning travelers. Through strategic planning, operational oversight, and continuous staff engagement, the Director of Operations will ensure that every aspect of the guest journey reflects the brand’s values and commitment to excellence.
The enhanced leadership structure at Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach signals a new phase of operational focus and excellence. With strengthened coordination, innovative service practices, and empowered teams, the property remains poised to deliver world-class hospitality experiences. Guests can continue to expect personalized, attentive, and flawlessly executed service that positions the property at the forefront of luxury residential hospitality.
By combining operational expertise with a commitment to staff development and guest satisfaction, the Director of Operations plays a crucial role in sustaining the property’s prestige. Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach, continues to exemplify the pinnacle of luxury hospitality, offering residents and guests alike an unmatched combination of comfort, service, and attention to detail.
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The MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry has great news! That’s right! MCE North & West Europe 2026 Forum will be taking place in Copenhagen, Denmark from April 12-14, 2026! Denmark has been chosen to host this forum! This forum is a B2B event and will focus on event suppliers from North and West Europe. This forum will feature event planners from all over the world who will be booking meetings and events on the spot! This event will take place at the AC Hotel Bella Sky. This hotel is right next to the center of Copenhagen, which is very convenient!
Great Place, Great Event!
The MICE industry has a very important event, the MCE North and West Europe Forum, that they will be able to include other event destinations, congress centers, and event service providers. This is a great opportunity to sell your services to event organizers, especially in the field of meetings, congresses, and events, who are frequently on the move. This event will also include over 70 buyer participants, and will provide unlimited business and partnership opportunities in the field of meetings and events!
This program lasts two and a half days and consists of a series of scheduled one-on-one B2B meetings. These meetings provide opportunities for targeted networking and streamline the time for each attendee to discuss their interests and business objectives.
Attendees will benefit from the destination presentations given by the main suppliers. These presentations will provide insights about how to sell the destination of Copenhagen and the rest of North and West Europe. Participants will also have the opportunity to gain experience in the cultural immersion of the host city through guided tours, sightseeing, and Nordic wellness.
The choice of Copenhagen as a host city reflects its increasing prominence in the international meetings industry. With its modern conference facilities, numerous cultural attractions and dedication to sustainable development, the Danish capital is a leading destination for international business travel. The city’s efforts to establish a responsible business ecosystem aligns well with the event’s objectives, placing it in sync with the requirements of contemporary event planners and suppliers.
The schedule for the excursion will include visits to Tivoli Gardens and some other popular attractions, as well as networking events that highlight what Copenhagen has to offer for meetings and events. Each participant will enjoy the activities and the wealth of resources available for the city’s rich cultural heritage.
The city’s proven track record of responsible event management, coupled with strong event and tourism management, has made it an attractive destination for businesses concerned with minimizing their corporate footprint. These factors highlight why Copenhagen should be the destination for the MCE North and West Europe 2026 Forum.
The forum will be held at the AC Hotel Bella Sky, providing easy access to the city center and some of the best spots for conducting business interactions. The hotel’s advanced technology and strategic location will enhance the networking and collaboration activities among the participants.
The MCE North & West Europe Forum 2026 will be the premier event in the MICE sector. Comprehensive opportunities in networking, collaborative exchange, and idea sharing will be available at the forum, with an exclusive list of buyers and suppliers. Event planners will find value in the forum to grow their connections and discover new locations for future meetings and events.
The MCE Forum is the ideal setting for destinations, convention bureaus, and event service providers to connect with influential stakeholders in the global meetings industry. The event will enhance collaboration, advancement, and ingenuity in the European MICE industry.
The trust placed on Copenhagen as the host city for MCE North & West Europe 2026 Forum is a great confidence for the city and a big step to enhance its standing as a leader in the MICE industry. In addition to meeting great business partners and suppliers, attendees will be privileged to access some unique offerings in the city including its business and travel culture. Copenhagen is one of the best cities with stunning conference centers, and is the best fit for the 2026 forum because of its emphasis on sustainable development and its rich cultural history.
As one of the ideal cities for international business events, the MCE North & West Europe Forum will be an exceptional event for everyone in the MICE industry. It will provide a fantastic opportunity for all professionals who are in quest of new business, networking, and travel culture activities. It will make a great difference in the business travel event industry.
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Japan’s international cruise tourism has made a remarkable recovery, with the number of foreign cruise travelers rising 1.2 times in 2025, reaching a total of 1.8 million. This increase is part of Japan’s broader tourism recovery, which has been fueled by a surge in port calls by foreign cruise ships and a growing number of international fly & cruise travelers. According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, the success of Japan’s cruise sector reflects a broader global trend of rising interest in maritime travel, with the country nearing pre-pandemic levels of international arrivals.
The 1.8 million international cruise visitors to Japan in 2025 represent a significant increase over the previous year, marking a near 20% rise in foreign cruise tourism. This growth brings Japan closer to its peak 2017 levels, where the number of international cruise passengers had reached 2.5 million. While the 2025 numbers still represent about 70% of the peak 2017 level, the surge in visitor numbers underscores the resilience of Japan’s tourism sector and the recovery of the international cruise market.
This uptick in arrivals is mirrored by a 6% increase in port calls, with a total of 3,117 visits to Japanese ports in 2025, surpassing the peak level of 2018. The growing popularity of Japan as a cruise destination is attributed to the country’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and scenic landscapes, all of which continue to draw tourists from around the world.
Among the 3,117 port calls in 2025, Yokohama, Hakata, and Naha stood out as the most frequently visited ports. Yokohama saw 209 visits from foreign cruise ships, closely followed by Hakata with 209 calls and Naha with 205. These ports have long been key hubs for international cruise ships entering Japan and remain popular due to their proximity to cultural attractions and ease of access.
Foreign cruise ships accounted for 2,352 port calls, an increase of 20% compared to 2017, while Japanese cruise ships recorded 765 port calls, marking a 40% rise. Among the most frequently visited ports for foreign cruise ships was Nagasaki, which recorded 194 visits, followed by Hakata with 191 and Naha with 187. This data highlights not only the strong demand for Japan as a cruise destination but also the increasing reliance on foreign ships to meet the growing number of tourists arriving by sea.
One of the more notable trends in Japan’s cruise tourism in 2025 is the surge in international fly & cruise travelers. This segment, where passengers fly into Japan and then embark on cruises, doubled to 181,000 compared to the peak levels of 2019. This shift demonstrates a growing demand for combined travel experiences, where tourists are increasingly seeking integrated packages that combine international flights and cruise journeys.
This trend is particularly important for the broader Japanese tourism sector as it contributes not only to the cruise industry but also to other tourism-related services such as accommodations, dining, and local excursions. The increase in fly & cruise travelers signals a growing market for premium travel experiences in Japan, which offers travelers both convenience and a variety of cultural experiences.
The surge in cruise tourism is part of Japan’s broader strategy to increase its competitiveness in the global cruise market. The Japanese government had set a target to reach 2.5 million international cruise travelers and 2,000 port calls by foreign ships by 2025. While the country has not yet hit the 2.5 million mark, the continued growth seen in 2025 demonstrates strong potential for reaching these targets in the near future.
With the introduction of new routes and increased capacity in ports like Yokohama, Hakata, and Naha, Japan is steadily expanding its cruise tourism infrastructure to support future growth. As Japan continues to develop its port facilities and expand its tourism offerings, it is expected that the number of cruise visitors will continue to rise, contributing to the growth of the national tourism sector.
The increase in international cruise travelers has had a direct and significant impact on Japan’s local economies. Ports such as Yokohama, Hakata, and Naha benefit greatly from the influx of tourists, with local businesses—ranging from hotels and restaurants to retail shops and tour operators—reaping the rewards of the growing cruise tourism market.
The rise in port calls also means more economic opportunities for various sectors, including transportation, leisure activities, and hospitality. The Japanese government continues to work closely with tourism authorities and cruise operators to ensure the smooth flow of passengers and to provide a high-quality experience that meets international standards.
With Japan’s cruise tourism showing continued growth, the country is positioning itself as one of Asia’s leading cruise destinations. As international travelers return to the seas, Japan is attracting tourists seeking cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and luxury experiences. The growing interest in destinations like Yokohama, Hakata, and Naha shows that Japan is successfully tapping into the global cruise market.
Looking forward, Japan’s cruise tourism sector is expected to continue growing, driven by a combination of increasing port capacity, expanding routes, and enhanced tourism offerings. With continued investments in infrastructure and a focus on customer satisfaction, Japan will remain a key player in the global cruise tourism industry.
Japan’s cruise tourism sector in 2025 has shown impressive growth, with increased port calls and a surge in international cruise travelers. The country’s tourism infrastructure and strategic initiatives, including the expansion of port facilities and the rise in fly & cruise travelers, position it well for continued growth in the coming years. As Japan works toward reaching its tourism goals, the continued growth of its cruise market will play an integral role in the nation’s tourism recovery and future success.
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Bath Joins Baden-Baden, Karlovy Vary, Vichy, and Montecatini Terme in the race for 2026’s top artesian destination. These historic spa towns have long been regarded as Europe’s most coveted wellness havens, and now Bath is stepping up to claim its place among them. The competition is fierce, with each destination offering its unique charm, cultural heritage, and therapeutic waters. Bath, known for its Roman baths and natural hot springs, is revitalising its image and embracing modern wellness trends. Transitioning from ancient healing practices to contemporary luxury, Bath aims to rival these iconic towns for the title of the ultimate wellness destination. As 2026 approaches, travellers are eagerly anticipating how this iconic spa town will shake up the wellness scene alongside Baden-Baden, Karlovy Vary, Vichy, and Montecatini Terme. Will Bath emerge victorious, or will the old favourites retain their reign? Time will tell.
Bath is a unique gem in the UK. The only place in the country where you can bathe in natural thermal springs, Bath has been attracting visitors for centuries. This city, originally built by the Romans, continues to be a popular destination for wellness enthusiasts. The Thermae Bath Spa, offering rooftop pools filled with mineral-rich waters, is a must-visit in 2026. But Bath is not just about relaxation. It is a city full of history, culture, and charm.
The city’s Roman Baths remain a major attraction. These ancient structures still flow with water from three main springs, delivering an impressive 250,000 gallons of water per day. The government has been instrumental in preserving these springs and their surrounding architecture, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the historic experience while indulging in modern spa treatments. In addition to the spas, Bath boasts Georgian architecture, including the stunning Royal Crescent and the Circus, making it a complete cultural destination. Year-round festivals also keep the city alive with activity, from music festivals to food markets. Bath offers the perfect blend of ancient healing traditions and modern-day luxury.
Nestled between the vineyards of Germany’s Rebland and the wild Black Forest, Baden-Baden is a true gem for wellness seekers. The town has been famous for its thermal baths for over 2,000 years. The hot springs here, which can reach up to 68 °C, are rich in minerals like lithium and magnesium, making them ideal for treating cardiovascular and rheumatic disorders. With such healing powers, Baden-Baden’s spas like the Caracalla Spa and the historic Friedrichsbad Spa continue to attract visitors in 2026.
The town’s natural beauty adds to its appeal. Baden-Baden is surrounded by lush parks, and in spring, the town’s parks are blooming with vibrant crocuses, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers. The local government has continued to support the preservation of the town’s spa buildings and green spaces, ensuring that they remain as inviting as ever. Festivals, open-air concerts, and gourmet events are also part of the cultural calendar, offering a mix of relaxation and entertainment. Baden-Baden is a perfect place to unwind and experience both nature and culture.
Karlovy Vary, located in the heart of the West Bohemian Spa Triangle, is known for its spectacular thermal springs. The Vřídlo hot spring is the town’s most famous, sending hot water up to 12 metres high. At 72 °C, the water is perfect for spa treatments, and it is the only source used for local baths. In 2026, visitors can enjoy this natural wonder while exploring Karlovy Vary’s elegant colonnades, a legacy of the town’s imperial history.
The town’s spa culture is celebrated each year during the Opening of the Spa Season, which takes place in May. This festival, organised by CzechTourism, is a grand event where the mineral springs are blessed, and a parade featuring Charles IV on horseback marks the occasion. With its grand architecture, festive atmosphere, and healing waters, Karlovy Vary is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking both relaxation and cultural experiences. The local government has ensured that the town’s historic spa buildings and colonnades are well-maintained, preserving the area’s charm and allure.
Vichy, also known as the “Queen of Spa Towns,” has been a symbol of French wellness for centuries. The town is home to nine mineral-rich springs, each offering unique therapeutic benefits. The Source de l’Hôpital, for example, produces 84 °C water, which is highly beneficial for digestive and intestinal disorders. In 2026, Vichy is undergoing a transformation, with its historic spa resorts being rebranded under the new Vy Resort Thermal & Spa brand.
This transformation is part of a larger effort by the French government to modernise Vichy while retaining its spa heritage. The town’s main thermal establishments, like the Thermes Callou and Thermes Les Dômes, will be open throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to experience the healing properties of Vichy water in a modern, luxurious setting. Vichy’s rebranding efforts aim to combine the traditional healing properties of the springs with contemporary wellness expertise, positioning the town as a leading destination for holistic health. Visitors can also explore the town’s rich history, as Vichy continues to be a hub for French wellness and luxury.
Montecatini Terme is a charming Italian spa town that combines nature, history, and wellness. Located between Florence and Pisa, the town is home to eleven thermal springs, which have been used for therapeutic purposes for centuries. The springs in Montecatini are rich in chloride-sulphate, magnesium, and sodium bicarbonate, making them perfect for a range of health treatments. Visitors in 2026 can experience the beauty of these natural springs while strolling through the town’s elegant spa buildings.
Montecatini Terme’s architectural beauty is another highlight. The town’s Art Nouveau and neoclassical spas, like the Tettuccio and Regina Spas, are masterpieces that showcase the region’s design genius. The Tettuccio Spa, built in the early 20th century, is famous for its vibrant frescoes and stained-glass windows that fill the interior with colourful light. The town’s cultural calendar for 2026 includes a wide range of exhibitions and events, from art shows to scientific conferences, ensuring that Montecatini Terme remains a cultural hub in addition to a wellness destination.
Europe’s spa towns are more than just places to relax—they are destinations that bring together water, history, culture, and wellness. Each of these towns has something unique to offer in 2026, from Bath’s Roman history and Georgian architecture to Baden-Baden’s rich cultural calendar and Baden-Baden’s natural beauty. Karlovy Vary remains a favourite for its annual celebrations and spectacular geysers, while Vichy’s modernisation efforts ensure that it remains a top wellness destination. Montecatini Terme’s combination of art, history, and natural beauty makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique European experience.
Governments in these towns have made significant investments in preserving the spa heritage while ensuring that modern travellers can enjoy luxurious, health-focused experiences. UNESCO’s recognition of the Great Spa Towns of Europe is a testament to the cultural importance of these destinations, and it guarantees that these towns will continue to thrive well into the future. For wellness seekers, these towns are the ultimate escape, combining history, culture, and rejuvenation in one unforgettable package.
Europe’s historic spa towns are not just places to soak in warm waters—they are cultural landmarks that continue to evolve. From the iconic Roman Baths of Bath to the imperial spas of Karlovy Vary, these towns offer a blend of rich history, natural beauty, and modern luxury. Whether you’re looking for healing waters, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing escape, these destinations have it all. With investments in preservation and modernisation, these spa towns are ready to welcome visitors in 2026 and beyond. If you’re seeking a unique wellness experience that combines the best of the past and present, look no further than Europe’s liquid gold—its timeless spa towns.
The post Bath Joins Baden-Baden, Karlovy Vary, Vichy, and Montecatini Terme: The Ultimate Wellness Battle for 2026’s Top Artesian Destination! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
In the heart of Slovenia’s spa country, Terme Čatež is being elevated as one of Central Europe’s most attractive thermal and wellness escapes from a traveller’s perspective. As the country’s largest natural thermal destination and a long‑time favourite among families seeking an affordable leisure break, the resort is being reshaped to appeal to modern visitors who value comfort, sustainability and easy regional access.
With a €15 million loan being provided by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to the owner of Terme Čatež, the complex is being prepared for a new phase of development. For travellers, this support translates into better facilities, more reliable year‑round services and a stronger focus on green, responsible operations. Slovenia’s reputation as a nature‑rich, wellness‑oriented destination is being further reinforced through this project.
From a tourism standpoint, the capital investment programme being financed at Terme Čatež is being designed to make every stage of the guest journey smoother and more enjoyable. The €15 million funding is being channelled into modernising core infrastructure, improving the energy profile of buildings and systems, and ensuring that environmental performance matches the expectations of eco‑conscious travellers.
For visitors, these technical investments will be felt in more reliable services, better climate control in rooms and public spaces, and a generally more polished atmosphere throughout the resort. The objective is to make Terme Čatež equally appealing in peak school‑holiday seasons and quieter months, so that guests can plan thermal getaways at any time of year without worrying about reduced services or dated facilities.
The shift towards year‑round tourism is particularly important from a travel perspective. Thermal destinations are often perceived as seasonal favourites, but at Terme Čatež, this perception is being consciously changed. The investment is being used to ensure that pools, wellness facilities, hotel areas and family attractions can be operated efficiently and comfortably in all seasons.
This repositioning creates new possibilities for visitors. Weekend spa escapes, mid‑week wellness retreats, off‑season family breaks and short cross‑border trips from neighbouring countries are all being made more attractive. As a result, travellers are being offered greater flexibility and more value, while the surrounding region benefits from steadier visitor flows and less pronounced peaks and troughs.
A notable part of the transformation, from a tourism lens, is the refurbishment of hotel facilities at Terme Čatež. Guest rooms, lobbies, restaurants and shared spaces are being refreshed to reflect contemporary expectations of comfort, style and practicality. By updating furnishings, improving room layouts and integrating modern technologies, the accommodation offer is being aligned with the preferences of today’s family and wellness travellers.
For guests, this means brighter, more comfortable rooms, better equipped bathrooms, improved connectivity and more inviting communal areas. Higher service quality on the accommodation side is expected to result in better reviews, stronger loyalty and a more solid word‑of‑mouth reputation, which are all crucial in the competitive spa and wellness tourism market.
In a thermal resort, water is being treated as much more than a technical resource; it is the foundation of the tourism product. At Terme Čatež, upgrades to water treatment and wastewater management infrastructure are being undertaken not only for regulatory compliance, but also to protect what makes the destination special in the eyes of visitors.
Improved groundwater pumping systems and enhanced wastewater treatment facilities are being implemented to preserve water quality and ensure responsible use of natural springs and freshwater sources. For travellers, this translates into cleaner pools, more reliable thermal experiences and the reassurance that their stay supports, rather than harms, the local environment. In the long term, careful water management is being used to secure the destination’s appeal for future generations of wellness tourists.
Energy efficiency measures are being woven into the guest experience in subtle but important ways. By upgrading heating, cooling and ventilation systems, improving insulation and installing more efficient equipment, the resort is being made more comfortable in all seasons while reducing its environmental footprint.
Visitors are likely to notice stable temperatures, pleasant indoor climates and smoothly functioning facilities, even if they are not aware of the technical changes behind the scenes. At the same time, lower energy consumption is being used to support Slovenia’s broader climate ambitions, positioning Terme Čatež as a responsible choice for travellers who want their holidays to align with sustainable values. Over time, lower operating costs can also make it easier to maintain competitive pricing and attractive packages.
From a travel and tourism perspective, the project is being framed around the idea of encouraging domestic and regional tourism. Rather than relying heavily on long haul visitors, Terme Čatež is being strengthened as a close‑to‑home destination for Slovenian guests and travellers from neighbouring countries. This orientation is being used to reduce the carbon footprint associated with air travel, while still offering a rich and relaxing holiday experience.
For many families, couples and wellness seekers in Central and Eastern Europe, the resort is being positioned as an easily reachable escape by car, bus or train. This makes spontaneous weekend getaways more realistic and supports multi‑stop itineraries that combine urban sightseeing with spa relaxation. In this way, Terme Čatež is being integrated into broader regional tourism circuits that prioritise sustainability and accessibility.
Human capital development at Terme Čatež carries direct benefits for visitors. With the support of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, new training and skills programmes are being planned for the resort’s workforce. These will be developed in cooperation with local educational and training institutions, ensuring that employees are prepared to meet evolving guest expectations and industry standards.
For travellers, the impact is likely to be felt in more attentive service, better communication, a stronger culture of hospitality and a more seamless overall experience. Equal opportunity and career progression within the resort are being promoted, which helps staff retention and contributes to a stable, experienced team. In turn, this stability enhances the authenticity and warmth of the guest experience, an increasingly important factor in the choice of wellness and family destinations.
This investment is being recognised as the first tourism project supported by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development in Slovenia and its first inland tourism project in the Adriatic region. From a tourism‑strategy perspective, this sends a clear signal: Slovenia’s potential goes beyond classic alpine scenery and city breaks to include robust inland wellness and leisure products. Terme Čatež is being placed as a demonstrator of how such products can be modernised and aligned with sustainability goals.
The project showcases Slovenia’s strong natural assets, stable business environment and growing reputation for green policies. As travellers increasingly seek destinations that combine wellness, nature and responsible practices, Slovenia’s profile as a spa and wellness country is being raised. Terme Čatež, as a large and well‑known thermal resort, is being used as a visible platform to project this image across regional and international markets.
The loan to Terme Čatež is being added to a broader story of investment across Slovenia. Since the beginning of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development’s operations in the country, more than €1.6 billion has been invested in 116 projects covering various sectors. These efforts have been guided by a commitment to build a more resilient, green and inclusive economy.
Within this context, tourism is being recognised as a sector where economic, environmental and social objectives intersect. The transformation of Terme Čatež demonstrates how infrastructure upgrades, environmental stewardship and skills development can work together to enhance a destination’s appeal while generating local jobs and income. For travellers, this means that choosing such a destination contributes not only to personal relaxation and enjoyment, but also to a wider transition towards more responsible tourism in Slovenia and the Adriatic region.
The post Slovenia’s Terme Čatež Is Being Transformed Into a Flagship Green Thermal Resort With a Fifteen‑Million‑Euro Tourism Upgrade Backed by the EBRD appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Last month, details about an FE variant of the vivo V70 surfaced online. Now, vivo has officially confirmed the V70 FE’s launch date and revealed details about its rear camera. Notably, the company recently unveiled the V70 and the V70 Elite in India. The vivo V70 FE will debut in Indonesia on March 9, the brand confirmed via a social media post. vivo’s also confirmed that the handset will feature a dual-rear camera setup with a primary 200MP main sensor. In another teaser, the company showcased the phone’s design including its slim display bezels and color options. According...
The Chery Tiggo 4 is up to #3 year-to-date in Australia.
New vehicle sales in Australia are down -2.7% year-on-year in February to 94,131 units, leading to a year-to-date volume off -1.3% to 181,884. Petrol sales fall -17.7% to 33,309, diesel limits its fall to -1.6% and 26,963 units and HEVs are off -9.6% to 13,868 but PHEVs soar 20.2% to 5,854. The best performing propulsion is by far BEVs: up a stunning 95.9% to 11,134 for a strong 11.8% market share. SUVs stabilise their share at 60.3% vs. 60.4% in February 2025 due to sales down -2.9% to 56,767. Light commercials are also in negative at -0.7% to 21,191 and 22.5% share vs. 22.1% a year ago and passenger cars edge down -2.4% to 13,170 and 14% share vs. 13.9% last year. Meanwhile heavy commercials are off -12.9% to 3,003 and 3.2% share vs. 3.6% a year ago.
If Victoria is stable (24,732) all other regions are in negative this month (excluding Tesla and Polestar). New South Wales is down -7.6% to 27,524, Queensland down -2.8% to 19,644, Western Australia off -3.9% to 9,841, South Australia at -8.7% to 5,673, Tasmania down -6.4% to 1,384, Australian Capital Territory down -18.7% to 1,187 and Northern Territory off -15.8% to 727. Worryingly, private sales trail the market at -7.7% to 45,182 but fleet sales do the same at -3.4% to 34,444. Only rental sales are dynamic at +35.4% to 5,786 while government sales are down -13.4% to 2,297. The big event of the month is China becoming the biggest source of cars sold in Australia, thanks to sales up 50.5% to 25,781. Meanwhile, Japan is down -31.3% to 21,671, Thailand is up 6.7% to 19,493, South Korea down -2.9% to 11,913 and Germany up 9.8% to 4,272.
The new generation has so far failed to boost Hilux sales in Australia.
After losing -22.3% in January, Toyota (-27.8%) continues its fall to hell with just 14.5% share this month, its lowest in three years: since March 2023 when it hit 13.6% (January 2026 share was incorrect and amended to 16.3%). Toyota suffers from RAV4’s stock drying up (-83.6%) before the new generation hits dealerships at the end of March, and an imploding Prado (-53.3%). Mazda (-19.9%) is also in a rut but manages to stay in 2nd place with 7.5% share. Ford (+9%) is solid and back up one spot on last month to #3 but is stuck in 4th place year-to-date (#2 over the Full Year 2025). Kia (+0.04%) is stable but sister brand Hyundai (+4.5%) is catching up. BYD (+62.2%) lodges another fantastic score and stays in 6th place above a struggling Mitsubishi (-22.3%). Below GWM (+24.9%) at 5% share, Chery (+93.2%) manages an incredible 13th consecutive record volume at 3,938. Isuzu Ute (+23.7%) is also strong while Tesla (+105.7%) is resurgent at #11. A couple of Chinese carmakers make themselves noticed: newcomer Geely breaks its ranking, volume and share records, Zeekr is up 560.6% and Denza lands at #32 with 309 sales.
Model-wise, the Ford Ranger (+7.1%) delivers a satisfying performance at #1, widening the gap with the Toyota Hilux (+0.2%) which has (so far?) failed to benefit from its new generation. The Tesla Model Y (+202.1%) triples its sales year-on-year and shoots up to #3, its highest ranking since last September (#3 also). The Chery Tiggo 4 (+116.8%) repeats at a record #4, a ranking it has held for three of the past four months. It also equals its all-time high share (2.5%) and breaks its volume record (2,315), climbing to #3 year-to-date. The Mazda CX-5 (+8.6%) once again shows surprising form given it will be replaced by a new generation later this year. The GWM Haval Jolion (+38.1%) stays inside the Top 10 with the Ford Everest (+47.3%) and Hyundai Tucson (+15.8%) also showing brilliant form.
Previous month: Australia January 2026: Chinese (+62.9%) pull market up, Toyota down -22.3%
One year ago: Australia February 2025: BYD Shark 6 lands with a bang
Full February 2026 Top 56 All brands and Top 20 models below.
Australia February 2026 – brands:
| Pos | Brand | Feb-26 | % | /25 | Jan | 2026 | % | /25 | Pos | FY25 |
| 1 | Toyota | 13,606 | 14.5% | – 27.8% | 1 | 27,916 | 15.3% | – 25.1% | 1 | 1 |
| 2 | Mazda | 7,042 | 7.5% | – 19.9% | 2 | 14,734 | 8.1% | – 13.9% | 2 | 3 |
| 3 | Ford | 6,907 | 7.3% | + 9.0% | 4 | 13,023 | 7.2% | – 1.1% | 4 | 2 |
| 4 | Kia | 6,710 | 7.1% | + 0.0% | 3 | 13,310 | 7.3% | + 7.1% | 3 | 4 |
| 5 | Hyundai | 6,266 | 6.7% | + 4.5% | 5 | 12,122 | 6.7% | + 5.7% | 5 | 5 |
| 6 | BYD | 5,323 | 5.7% | + 62.2% | 6 | 10,324 | 5.7% | + 161.0% | 6 | 8 |
| 7 | Mitsubishi | 4,755 | 5.1% | – 22.3% | 8 | 9,102 | 5.0% | – 22.9% | 8 | 6 |
| 8 | GWM | 4,689 | 5.0% | + 24.9% | 7 | 9,198 | 5.1% | + 28.0% | 7 | 7 |
| 9 | Chery | 3,938 | 4.2% | + 93.2% | 9 | 7,718 | 4.2% | + 99.2% | 9 | 13 |
| 10 | Isuzu Ute | 3,384 | 3.6% | + 23.7% | 11 | 6,313 | 3.5% | + 12.6% | 11 | 9 |
| 11 | Tesla | 3,274 | 3.5% | + 105.7% | 24 | 3,775 | 2.1% | + 61.9% | 15 | 15 |
| 12 | MG | 3,254 | 3.5% | – 13.0% | 10 | 6,377 | 3.5% | – 14.7% | 10 | 10 |
| 13 | Subaru | 2,656 | 2.8% | – 24.4% | 12 | 4,992 | 2.7% | – 22.4% | 12 | 11 |
| 14 | Mercedes | 2,143 | 2.3% | + 8.8% | 14 | 4,292 | 2.4% | + 15.2% | 13 | 16 |
| 15 | Volkswagen | 2,139 | 2.3% | – 2.1% | 15 | 4,025 | 2.2% | – 10.5% | 14 | 14 |
| 16 | Nissan | 1,775 | 1.9% | – 50.1% | 16 | 3,646 | 2.0% | – 44.7% | 17 | 12 |
| 17 | BMW | 1,602 | 1.7% | – 9.5% | 13 | 3,756 | 2.1% | + 18.4% | 16 | 17 |
| 18 | Honda | 1,445 | 1.5% | + 18.6% | 17 | 2,667 | 1.5% | + 7.6% | 18 | 19 |
| 19 | LDV | 1,165 | 1.2% | + 1.0% | 18 | 2,125 | 1.2% | – 9.4% | 19 | 22 |
| 20 | Suzuki | 954 | 1.0% | – 28.2% | 19 | 1,862 | 1.0% | – 32.5% | 20 | 20 |
| 21 | Geely | 893 | 0.9% | new | 22 | 1,613 | 0.9% | new | 23 | 27 |
| 22 | Audi | 862 | 0.9% | – 24.7% | 20 | 1,718 | 0.9% | – 20.4% | 21 | 18 |
| 23 | Lexus | 853 | 0.9% | – 19.1% | 21 | 1,708 | 0.9% | – 15.6% | 22 | 21 |
| 24 | Omoda Jaecoo | 815 | 0.9% | new | 23 | 1,506 | 0.8% | new | 24 | 32 |
| 25 | Zeekr | 654 | 0.7% | + 560.6% | 25 | 1,123 | 0.6% | + 1034.3% | 25 | 36 |
| 26 | Volvo | 630 | 0.7% | + 1.8% | 26 | 1,046 | 0.6% | – 11.3% | 26 | 24 |
| 27 | Land Rover | 464 | 0.5% | – 26.0% | 30 | 800 | 0.4% | – 22.5% | 28 | 23 |
| 28 | Mini | 432 | 0.5% | – 0.5% | 28 | 827 | 0.5% | + 5.6% | 27 | 25 |
| 29 | Porsche | 370 | 0.4% | – 27.5% | 27 | 767 | 0.4% | – 21.6% | 29 | 26 |
| 30 | Skoda | 349 | 0.4% | + 11.9% | 29 | 691 | 0.4% | + 7.8% | 30 | 28 |
| 31 | Renault | 337 | 0.4% | – 5.3% | 31 | 637 | 0.4% | – 17.8% | 31 | 29 |
| 32 | Denza | 309 | 0.3% | new | – | 309 | 0.2% | #DIV/0! | 36 | 57 |
| 33 | Chevrolet | 275 | 0.3% | – 15.4% | 33 | 534 | 0.3% | – 17.5% | 33 | 31 |
| 34 | Ram | 266 | 0.3% | + 3.9% | 32 | 543 | 0.3% | + 8.2% | 32 | 33 |
| 35 | KGM | 239 | 0.3% | – 43.6% | 34 | 447 | 0.2% | – 39.3% | 34 | 30 |
| 36 | Cupra | 217 | 0.2% | + 17.3% | 35 | 417 | 0.2% | + 12.1% | 35 | 34 |
| 37 | Polestar | 145 | 0.2% | + 16.0% | 36 | 305 | 0.2% | + 47.3% | 37 | 35 |
| 38 | Genesis | 129 | 0.1% | + 17.3% | 38 | 248 | 0.1% | + 15.3% | 38 | 39 |
| 39 | JAC | 103 | 0.1% | – 49.5% | 39 | 221 | 0.1% | – 45.8% | 39 | 40 |
| 40 | Foton | 99 | 0.1% | new | 37 | 219 | 0.1% | new | 40 | 51 |
| 41 | Fiat | 99 | 0.1% | – 34.0% | 41 | 196 | 0.1% | – 41.1% | 41 | 37 |
| 42 | Peugeot | 85 | 0.1% | – 14.1% | 43 | 150 | 0.1% | – 27.2% | 43 | 41 |
| 43 | Deepal | 71 | 0.1% | new | 40 | 170 | 0.1% | new | 42 | 45 |
| 44 | Jeep | 67 | 0.1% | – 67.8% | 42 | 133 | 0.1% | – 62.3% | 44 | 38 |
| 45 | Leapmotor | 46 | 0.0% | + 58.6% | 44 | 107 | 0.1% | + 109.8% | 45 | 42 |
| 46 | GMC | 32 | 0.0% | new | 45 | 71 | 0.0% | new | 46 | 46 |
| 47 | Alfa Romeo | 31 | 0.0% | – 24.4% | 46 | 65 | 0.0% | – 13.3% | 47 | 44 |
| 48 | Maserati | 23 | 0.0% | + 21.1% | 47 | 43 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 48 | 48 |
| 49 | Ferrari | 16 | 0.0% | – 27.3% | 48 | 34 | 0.0% | + 36.0% | 49 | 49 |
| 50 | Bentley | 15 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 50 | 27 | 0.0% | + 35.0% | 50 | 52 |
| 51 | Aston Martin | 15 | 0.0% | – 40.0% | 51 | 22 | 0.0% | – 31.3% | 52 | 50 |
| 52 | Lamborghini | 13 | 0.0% | – 55.2% | 49 | 25 | 0.0% | – 53.7% | 51 | 47 |
| 53 | Farizon | 13 | 0.0% | new | 52 | 20 | 0.0% | new | 53 | – |
| 54 | Rolls-Royce | 7 | 0.0% | – 30.0% | 53 | 13 | 0.0% | – 13.3% | 54 | 55 |
| 55 | Jaguar | 4 | 0.0% | – 91.3% | 55 | 7 | 0.0% | – 91.9% | 56 | 43 |
| 56 | McLaren | 3 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | 54 | 7 | 0.0% | – 36.4% | 55 | 54 |
Australia February 2026 – models:
| Pos | Model | Feb-26 | % | /25 | Jan | 2026 | % | /25 | Pos | FY25 |
| 1 | Ford Ranger | 4,325 | 4.6% | + 7.1% | 1 | 7,728 | 4.2% | – 6.8% | 1 | 1 |
| 2 | Toyota Hilux | 3,625 | 3.9% | + 0.2% | 2 | 6,425 | 3.5% | – 7.1% | 2 | 3 |
| 3 | Tesla Model Y | 2,791 | 3.0% | + 202.1% | 76 | 3,079 | 1.7% | + 121.7% | 13 | 10 |
| 4 | Chery Tiggo 4 | 2,315 | 2.5% | + 116.8% | 4 | 4,549 | 2.5% | + 118.1% | 3 | 11 |
| 5 | Mazda CX-5 | 2,099 | 2.2% | + 8.6% | 3 | 4,388 | 2.4% | + 15.4% | 4 | 8 |
| 6 | Isuzu D-Max | 2,092 | 2.2% | + 3.5% | 8 | 3,890 | 2.1% | – 5.3% | 6 | 4 |
| 7 | Mitsubishi Outlander | 2,070 | 2.2% | – 13.2% | 5 | 4,045 | 2.2% | – 9.6% | 5 | 9 |
| 8 | Hyundai Kona | 2,023 | 2.1% | + 7.1% | 7 | 3,862 | 2.1% | + 21.1% | 7 | 7 |
| 9 | Mitsubishi Triton | 2,017 | 2.1% | + 42.0% | 13 | 3,682 | 2.0% | + 39.3% | 9 | 17 |
| 10 | GWM Haval Jolion | 1,804 | 1.9% | + 38.1% | 9 | 3,593 | 2.0% | + 38.6% | 10 | 14 |
| 11 | Ford Everest | 1,778 | 1.9% | + 47.3% | 6 | 3,691 | 2.0% | + 27.9% | 8 | 5 |
| 12 | Hyundai Tucson | 1,705 | 1.8% | + 15.8% | 12 | 3,434 | 1.9% | + 18.2% | 11 | 12 |
| 13 | Kia Sportage | 1,405 | 1.5% | – 27.1% | 18 | 2,670 | 1.5% | – 28.9% | 14 | 15 |
| 14 | Toyota Corolla | 1,396 | 1.5% | – 10.6% | 11 | 3,131 | 1.7% | – 0.4% | 12 | 16 |
| 15 | MG ZS | 1,337 | 1.4% | – 22.3% | 17 | 2,604 | 1.4% | – 11.2% | 16 | 13 |
| 16 | BYD Sealion 7 | 1,327 | 1.4% | + 745.2% | 20 | 2,498 | 1.4% | + 1491.1% | 18 | 25 |
| 17 | Isuzu MU-X | 1,292 | 1.4% | + 81.2% | 16 | 2,603 | 1.4% | + 73.6% | 17 | 20 |
| 18 | Toyota Prado | 1,273 | 1.4% | – 53.3% | 14 | 2,665 | 1.5% | – 52.2% | 15 | 6 |
| 19 | Toyota Camry | 1,153 | 1.2% | + 138.7% | 32 | 2,028 | 1.1% | + 108.9% | 21 | 36 |
| 20 | GWM Haval H6 | 1,142 | 1.2% | + 4.4% | 24 | 2,179 | 1.2% | + 19.7% | 20 | 26 |
Source: VFACTS, Electric Vehicle Council
Trabzonspor Başkanı Ertuğrul Doğan, Trabzonspor Dergisi'e özel bir röportaj verdi.
Trabzonspor Kulübü Başkanı Ertuğrul Doğan, hedeflerinin asla bir sezonluk çıkış olmadığını ve olmayacağını belirterek, her sezon yarışan bir Trabzonspor inşa etmeyi amaçladıklarını bildirdi.
Ertuğrul Doğan, Trabzonspor Dergisi'nde yer alan bu ayki yazısında Trabzonspor camiasının kurulduğu günden bu yana kendi şartları içinde düşünme cesareti gösteren bir spor aklının temsilcisi olduğunu ifade ederek, merkezden beslenmemiş, kendi dinamiklerini üreten bir yapı kurulduğunu ve bugünkü hedeflerinin, bu karakteri çağın gereklilikleriyle buluşturduğunu kaydetti.
Göreve başladıklarında temel sorunun "Trabzonspor'u hem ekonomik hem sportif anlamda kalıcı bir güç haline nasıl getiririz?" olduğunu vurgulayan Doğan, şöyle devam etti:
"Bu soruya verdiğimiz cevap üç ana eksen üzerine kurulmuştur. Birincisi finansal olarak yeniden yapılanmadır. Kulübümüzün sürdürülebilirliği için mali disiplin vazgeçilmezdir. Gelir-gider dengesini sağlamak, borç yükünü azaltmak ve kaynak kullanımında rasyonel davranmak temel önceliğimiz olmuştur. Kısa vadeli rahatlama sağlayan geçici çözümler yerine uzun vadeli bir finansal mimari kurmayı tercih ettik. Amacımız Trabzonspor'un geleceğini ipotek altına almadan büyüyen bir ekonomik model oluşturmaktır. Şu ana kadar gayet iyi bir yolda olduğumuzu söyleyebilirim."
Doğan, ikincisinin ise sportif akıl ve kadro planlaması olduğunu belirterek, "Modern futbolu tek başına tutkuyla yönetemeyiz. Bunun için planlama ve veri temelli yaklaşım gerekir. Transfer politikamızda denge esas olmuştur. Genç oyuncu yatırımı ile tecrübeli isimleri doğru oranlarda bir araya getiren bir yapı kurduk. Altyapıya yaptığımız yatırımları artırarak kulübümüzün kendi üretim gücünü yükseltmeyi stratejik öncelik haline getirdik. Hedefimiz asla bir sezonluk çıkış olmadı, olmayacak da. Her sezon yarışan bir Trabzonspor inşa etmek en temel amacımızdır." ifadesini kullandı.
Üçüncünün ise kurumsal güç ve marka değeri olduğuna işaret eden Doğan, şunları kaydetti:
"Trabzonspor çok büyük bir markadır. Bu markanın değerini artırmak, sponsorluk yapısını geliştirmek, dijitalleşme süreçlerini hızlandırmak ve kurumsal yönetim standartlarını yükseltmek için sistemli bir dönüşüm başlattık. Şeffaflık, hesap verebilirlik ve kurumsal disiplin yönetim anlayışımızın temelidir. Bugün geldiğimiz noktada önemli mesafeler kat edildi. Ancak yol uzun ve hedef büyüktür. Trabzonspor'un geleceği, günü kurtaran reflekslerden tamamen uzak stratejik sabır ve ortak akılla şekillenecektir. Trabzonspor, ekonomik akılla, sportif cesaretle, kurumsal disiplinle ve toplumsal birliktelik üzerine yükselişini sürdürecektir. Gelecek bu ilkelerin oluşturduğu zeminde inşa edilecektir."
Fenerbahçe, Ziraat Türkiye Kupası C Grubu dördüncü haftasında deplasmanda Gaziantep FK ile karşı karşıya gelecek. Teknik direktör Domenico Tedesco Gaziantep FK deplasmanında yer alamayacak.
Fenerbahçe Teknik Direktörü Domenico Tedesco, tedavi sürecinin devam etmesi sebebiyle bugünkü Gaziantep FK mücadelesinde takımının başında yer alamayacak.
Sarı-lacivertli kulüpten yapılan açıklamada İtalyan teknik adamın ağır enfeksiyon sebebiyle tedavi sürecinin devam ettiği, Tedesco'nun hafta sonu ligde oynanacak Samsunspor müsabakasında takımın başında olmasının planlandığı belirtildi.
Ziraat Türkiye Kupası C Grubu 4. maçında bugün deplasmanda Gaziantep FK ile karşılaşacak sarı-lacivertlilerde takımın başında Zeki Murat Göle olacak.
Domenico Tedesco, yaşadığı sağlık sorunu sebebiyle geçen hafta Hesap.com Antalyaspor ile oynanan lig maçında takımını yalnız bırakmıştı.
NBA'de City Thunder, deplasmanda Chicago Bulls'u 116-108 yendi.
Amerikan Basketbol Ligi'nde (NBA) Oklahoma City Thunder, deplasmanda Chicago Bulls’u 116-108 mağlup etti.
United Center'da oynanan maçta, Jared McCain 20, Isaiah Joe 19 sayıyla konuk takımın en skorer isimleri oldu.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander'ın tedbir amaçlı dinlendirildiği Thunder'da, Aaron Wiggins 18 sayı, Jaylin Williams 17 sayı, 16 ribaunt, Chet Holmgren 12 sayı, 11 ribauntla galibiyete katkı sağladı.
Bulls'ta ise Collin Sexton 20 sayı, Guerschon Yabusele 18 sayı, 12 ribaunt, Tre Jones 15 sayıyla oynadı.
Basketbol Avrupa Ligi'nde Fenerbahçe Beko yarın Monaco'yu konuk edecek.
Basketbol Avrupa Ligi'nde (EuroLeague) Fenerbahçe Beko, yarın Fransa'nın Monaco ekibini ağırlayacak.
Ülker Spor ve Etkinlik Salonu'ndaki müsabaka 20.45'te başlayacak.
Ligde 1 maçı eksik olan sarı-lacivertliler, çıktığı 28 maçta elde ettiği 21 galibiyetle en yakın rakibinin 2 galibiyet önünde lider durumda bulunuyor.
29 müsabakada 16 galibiyet elde eden Monaco ise 9. sırada.
EuroLeague'de çıktığı son 8 mücadeleden de galibiyetle ayrılan Fenerbahçe Beko, son maçında evinde Sırbistan temsilcisi Partizan'ı 81-78'lik skorla mağlup etmişti.
Sarı-lacivertliler, Monaco'yla oynadığı son 2 maçtan da galip ayrıldı. Sezonun ilk yarısında rakibini deplasmanda 92-86 yenen Fenerbahçe Beko, bir önceki müsabakasında ise rakibini Dörtlü Final'in finalinde 81-70 yenerek Avrupa Ligi şampiyonluğuna uzanmıştı.
Bu maç öncesinde Fenerbahçe Beko Başantrenörü Sarunas Jasikevicius, basketbolcu Armando Bacot ve fizyoterapist Jaime Capella Bouza, liglere verilen milli takım arasında tatil için Dubai'de, sportif direktör Uğur Ozan Sulak da özel bir turnuvayı takip için Abu Dabi'de bulunuyordu. Dört isim de İran'ın ABD ve İsrail'in saldırılarına misilleme olarak hedef aldığı Birleşik Arap Emirlikleri'nde mahsur kalmıştı.
Jasikevicius, Bacot, Bouza ve Uğur Ozan Sulak, dün gerçekleştirilen uçuşla İstanbul'a ulaştı.
Beşiktaş, Ziraat Türkiye Kupası C Grubu dördüncü ve son hafta maçında Çaykur Rizespor'u konuk edecek. Beşiktaş-Çaykur Rizespor maçı ne zaman, saat kaçta ve hangi kanalda canlı yayınlanacak? Detaylar haberimizde...
Beşiktaş, Ziraat Türkiye Kupası C Grubu dördüncü ve son hafta maçında Çaykur Rizespor'u konuk edecek. Kupada oynadığı 3 maçta 2 galibiyet, 1 beraberlik alan siyah-beyazlılar, C Grubu'nda 7 puanla ilk sırada yer alıyor.
Çaykur Rizespor ise çıktığı 3 karşılaşmada birer galibiyet, beraberlik ve yenilgi yaşadı. Karadeniz ekibi topladığı 4 puan ve averajla 4. sırada kendine yer buldu.
Beşiktaş, rakibini yenerek gruptan lider çıkmayı hedefliyor. Rizespor ise önce kazanıp daha sonra rakiplerinin puan kaybetmesini bekleyecek.
Bu sezon iki takımın Süper Lig'deki randevusunu Beşiktaş, sahasında 1-0 kazanmıştı.
BEŞİKTAŞ-ÇAYKUR RİZESPOR MAÇI NE ZAMAN, SAAT KAÇTA VE HANGİ KANALDA CANLI YAYINLANACAK?
Tüpraş Stadı'nda oynanacak müsabaka, saat 20.30'da başlayacak. Mücadele, A Haber'den canlı yayınlanacak.
MUHTEMEL 11'LER
Beşiktaş: Ersin, Murillo, Agbadou, Djalo, Yasin, Ndidi, Orkun, Rashica, Cerny, Olaitam, Oh
Çaykur Rizespor: Erdem, Mithat, Samet, Sagnan, Hojer, Taylan, Mebude, Olawoyin, Laçi, Mihaila, Halil
EKSİKLER
Siyah-beyazlılarda Çaykur Rizespor maçı öncesinde iki eksik bulunuyor.
Beşiktaş'ta sakatlıkları bulunan Emirhan Topçu ile El Bilal Toure müsabakada formasından uzak kalacak.
SERGEN YALÇIN VE ORKUN KÖKÇÜ GERİ DÖNÜYOR
Beşiktaş'ta sarı kart cezaları nedeniyle Trendyol Süper Lig'deki Kocaelispor maçında yedek kulübesinde yer alamayan teknik direktör Sergen Yalçın, Rizespor karşılaşmasında görevinin başında olacak.
Beşiktaş'ta kaptan Orkun Kökçü de sarı kart cezasından dolayı Kocaelispor deplasmanında forma giyemedi.
Milli orta saha da görev verilmesi durumunda Çaykur Rizespor müsabakasında sahadaki yerini alabilecek.
KUPADAKİ 9. RANDEVU
Beşiktaş ile Çaykur Rizespor, Türkiye Kupası'nda 9. kez karşı karşıya gelecek.
1989-1990 sezonundan bu yana 8 kez karşılaşan iki ekibin randevusunda siyah-beyazlı takım, 4 galibiyet elde etti.
Karadeniz temsilcisi 3 müsabakadan galip ayrılırken, 1 maç ise berabere sonuçlandı.
Beşiktaş'ın 13 golüne Rizespor, 9 golle yanıt verdi.
Fenerbahçe, Ziraat Türkiye Kupası C Grubu dördüncü haftasında deplasmanda Gaziantep FK ile karşı karşıya gelecek. Gaziantep FK-Fenerbahçe maçı ne zaman, saat kaçta ve hangi kanalda canlı yayınlanacak? Detaylar haberimizde...
Fenerbahçe, Ziraat Türkiye Kupası C Grubu dördüncü haftasında deplasmanda Gaziantep FK ile karşı karşıya gelecek. Ligde üst üste 2 karşılaşmada puan kaybeden ve söz konusu süreçte Avrupa kupalarına veda eden sarı-lacivertliler, zorlu rakibini yenerek kupada yoluna devam etmeyi amaçlıyor.
GAZİANTEP FK-FENERBAHÇE MAÇI NE ZAMAN, SAAT KAÇTA VE HANGİ KANALDA CANLI YAYINLANACAK?
Gaziantep Stadı'nda oynanacak müsabaka saat 20.30'da başlayacak. Mücadele, ATV'den canlı yayınlanacak.
MUHTEMEL 11'LER
Gaziantep FK: Burak, Nazım, Tayyip, Mujakic, Sorescu, Camara, Ogün, Maxim, Rodrigues, Lungoyi, Bayo
Fenerbahçe: Mert Günok, Mert Müldür, Yiğit Efe, Oosterwolde, Levent, Fred, Kante, Asensio, Kerem, Musaba, Cherif
3.SIRADA YER ALIYOR
Kupaya evinde Beşiktaş mağlubiyetiyle başlayan Fenerbahçe, ardından Beyoğlu Yeni Çarşı ve Erzurumspor FK maçlarını kazanmıştı.
Kupada yoluna devam etmek için karşılaşmadan galibiyetle ayrılmak zorunda bulunan sarı-lacivertliler, grubunda 3. sırada yer alıyor.
Fenerbahçe'nin, doğrudan üst tura adını yazdırması için galibiyetle sahadan ayrılması gerekecek.
5 EKSİK
Fenerbahçe, Gaziantep deplasmanına 5 oyuncusundan yoksun çıkacak.
Sarı-lacivertlilerde sakatlıkları bulunan Milan Skriniar, Edson Alvarez, Anderson Talisca, Çağlar Söyüncü ve Nelson Semedo, karşılaşmada forma giyemeyecek.
Süper Lig'de denklemi Paul Onuachu çözüyor! Türkiye Kupası'nda Başakşehir'i yıkan dev golcü, sadece fiziğiyle değil, 'Matematik Profesörü' dedirten bitiricilik istatistikleriyle de ligin zirvesine ambargo koydu. Fatih Tekke'nin 'Geldiğinde ona gol kralı demiştim' sözleriyle onurlandırdığı Nijeryalı yıldızın, gol beklentisi verilerini altüst eden 'Kule Hesabı' mercek altında.
Başakşehir maçında oyuna girdikten sonra Trabzonspor'a 4-2'lik galibiyete Türkiye Kupası'nda çeyrek finali getiren Paul Onuachu, Fatih Tekke'den de övgüler aldı.
Geçmişin gol kralı Tekke, oyuncusunu "özel bir yetenek" olarak tanımlarken, Nijeryalı oyuncunun verileri Süper Lig’in mevcut standartlarının üzerinde bir performans sergilediğini kanıtlıyor.
Onuachu’nun bu sezonki performansı, verimlilik ve fiziksel hakimiyetin birleşimi olarak öne çıkıyor. Özellikle beklenen gol ve gerçek skor üretimi arasındaki pozitif fark, oyuncunun bitiricilik kalitesini gözler önüne seriyor.
- Gol Sayısı: 18 (Maç başına 0.86 gol ortalaması)
- Gol Beklentisi Performansı: 16.07 gol beklentisinden değerinden 18 gol çıkararak +1.93'lük fark yarattı.
- Hava Topu Hakimiyeti: Maç başına 4.2 kazanılan hava topu ile ligin en dominant golcüsü.
Onuachu, sadece ceza sahası içinde bekleyen bir bitirici değil; maç başına 3 şut denemesi ve 2.6 başarılı dokunuşla oyunun içinde aktif bir rol üstleniyor.
Eski bir gol kralı gözüyle Onuachu’yu değerlendiren Fatih Tekke, oyuncusuna olan güvenini şu sözlerle ifade etti:
- Onuachu'yu ilk gördüğümde ona 'gol kralı' diye hitap etmiştim. Çok özel yetenekleri var. En çok beğendiğim özelliği antrenman performansı; her idmanda %100'ünü veriyor. Eğer basit top kayıplarını azaltırsa, çok daha fazla gol fırsatı bulacaktır.
Güncel listede Onuachu, en yakın rakibi Eldor Shomurodov’un 2 gol önünde liderliğini sürdürüyor. Dakika/Gol oranına bakıldığında ise Mauro Icardi gibi isimlerin önünde, ligin en verimli forveti konumunda.
Paul Onuachu Trabzonspor 18 20(1) 7.54
Eldor Shomurodov Başakşehir 16 24 7.26
Anderson Talisca Fenerbahçe 13 18(5) 7.04
Mauro Icardi Galatasaray 13 9(14) 6.79
Paul Onuachu Trabzonspor 18 20(1) 7.54
Eldor Shomurodov Başakşehir 16 24 7.26
Anderson Talisca Fenerbahçe 13 18(5) 7.04
Mauro Icardi Galatasaray 13 9(14) 6.79
Trabzonspor'da Mathias Lovik şoku! Isınma esnasında arka adalesinde gerginlik hisseden Norveçli oyuncu, teknik direktör Fatih Tekke'nin kararıyla son anda kadrodan çıkarıldı. Tekke, sakatlığın büyümesini engellemek için neden risk almadığını maç sonu açıkladı.
Trabzonspor’un Başakşehir'i 4-2 ile geçerek çeyrek finale yükseldiği Türkiye Kupası müsabakası öncesinde, Norveçli sol bek Mathias Lovik şoku yaşandı. Isınma hareketleri sırasında sakatlık yaşayan genç oyuncu için teknik direktör Fatih Tekke, oyuncusunun sahadaki hırsına rağmen "önce sağlık" diyerek radikal bir karar aldı.
Maç öncesi yapılan son kontrollerde kendisini deneyen Lovik, sağ üst arka adalesinde gerginlik hissetti. Trabzonspor sağlık heyetinden yapılan resmi açıklamada şu ifadelere yer verildi:
- Futbolcumuz Mathias Lovik, ısınma esnasında sağ üst arka adalesinde hissettiği gerginlik nedeniyle tedbir amacıyla maç kadrosundan çıkarılmıştır. Karşılaşmaya Mustafa Eskihellaç ilk 11’de başlayacaktır.
Maçın ardından konuyla ilgili açıklamalarda bulunan teknik direktör Fatih Tekke, oyuncusunu korumak adına risk almadığını vurguladı. Lovik’in oynamak için çok istekli olduğunu belirten Tekke, sürecin yönetimini şu sözlerle özetledi:
- Lovik'in arka adalesinde bir hissiyat oldu. Oynama isteği vardı ama ben risk almak istemedim. En ufak bir zorlamada sakatlık 2-3 haftaya çıkabiliyor. Bu kararla durumu 4-5 günle kurtarabiliriz. Onun yerine dahil olan Mustafa ve sahadaki tüm oyuncular ellerinden geleni yaptılar.
Bu hamleyle Norveçli sol bekini sezonun geri kalanı için koruma altına alan Fatih Tekke, olası bir uzun süreli sakatlığın da önüne geçmiş oldu.
Andre Onana'nın kehaneti, Real Madrid'in radarı ve Başakşehir karşısındaki parmak ısırtan performans... Trabzonspor'un kupa zaferinde kaleyi devralan Onuralp Çevikkan, "Geleceğin 1 numarası benim" dedi. Onur Kıvrak ve Uğurcan Çakır'ın formasına aday olduğunu kanıtladı.
Trabzonspor, Türkiye Kupası’nda Başakşehir’i 4-2 mağlup ederek adını çeyrek finale yazdırırken, sahadaki skor kadar genç eldiven Onuralp Çevikkan’ın performansı da geceye damga vurdu. Sezon başında adı dünya devi Real Madrid ile dahi anılan genç yetenek, sergilediği oyunla "Geleceğin 1 numarası benim" mesajını verdi.
Fotospor daha önce; sezon sonunda ayrılacak olan Andre Onana’nın (40 milyon euro'luk satın alma bedeli çok yüksek), kulüp yönetimine "Eğer kalmayacaksam yerime kaleci almayın, Onuralp’e güvenin" dediği haberini yapmıştı. Genç kalecinin Başakşehir maçındaki performansıyla Kamerunlu kalecinin bu sözleri yeniden gündeme geldi. Onana’nın idmanlarda da yakından ilgilenip desteklediği Onuralp, antrenörü Metin Aktaş’tan da tam not aldı. Aktaş, genç kalecinin kalede verdiği güvenin altını çizdi.
Maçın ardından açıklamalarda bulunan Onuralp Çevikkan, mutluluğunu ve hedeflerini şu sözlerle paylaştı:
- Böylesine büyük bir kulüpte şans bulmak benim için büyük bir gurur. Her gün kendimi geliştiriyorum. Hedefim bu kulüple kupalar kazanmak ve adımı efsanelerin arasına yazdırmak.
Onur Kıvrak ve Uğurcan Çakır gibi isimlerle kaleci ekolünü sürdüren Trabzonspor’da, bayrağı devralmaya en yakın aday Onuralp olarak görülüyor. Başakşehir galibiyetiyle grubu 9 puanla 2. sırada tamamlayan bordo-mavililerde, genç eldivenin kupa yolculuğunda sergileyeceği performans merakla bekleniyor.
“Çelsi”nin 18 yaşlı braziliyalı sağ cinah hücumçusu Estevan Villian niyə məhz İngiltərə klubuna qoşulmasını əsaslandırıb.
Arena.az gənc ulduzun müvafiq açıqlamasını təqdim edir:
“Ailəm digər klubların da məkanlarını ziyarət etmişdi, amma mənim diqqətimi “Çelsi” çəkdi. “Çelsi”nin layihəsi onunla əlamətdardır ki, bu, daha çox oynamaq imkanı verən komandadır”, deyə gənc futbolçu vurğulayıb.
Xatırladaq ki, “Çelsi” 2025-ci ilin iyul ayında Estevan Villian müqabilində futbolçunun, yetirməsi olduğu “Palmeyras”a 45 milyon avro məbləğində ödəniş edib. Braziliyalı hücumçu 2033-cü ilin iyun ayının sonuna qədər müddət ərzində “zadəganlar”ın xidmətində olacaq.
Yeri gəlmişkən, “Çelsi”nin 25 yaşlı portuqaliyalı sağ cinah hücumçusu Pedro Neto da “zadəganlar”ın heyətində iddiasını açıqlayıb:
“Mən “Çelsi”yə qənimətlər qazanmaq üçün gəlmişəm. Buradakı ilk mövsümüm gözəl alındı – iki kubok qazandıq. İndi isə gözləntilərim çox yüksəkdir”, deyə Neto vurğulayıb.
PSJ-nin baş məşqçisi Luis Enrike parislilərin, penalti zərbələri zamanı yüksək qeyri-dəqiqlik fəsadı ilə bağlı qənaətini açıqlayıb.
Arena.az ispan mütəxəssisin müvafiq açıqlamasını təqdim edir:
“Şadam ki, penalti silsilələrini qazanmışıq. Yaxşı qapıçılarımız və yaxşı oyunçularımız var. Amma bununla yanaşı, penaltiləri pis gerçəkləşdiririk”, deyə Enrike vurğulayıb.
O, Paris komandasının qapıçılarından da danışıb:
“Yüksək səviyyəli üç qapıçımız var, mən çox şadam. Luka Şevalye, Matvey Safonov və Renato Marin komanda naminə yüz faiz can qoyurlar. Onlardan çox məmnunam. İşlər yaxşı getməyəndə, qapıçılarımız xasiyyətlərini nümayiş etdirirlər”, deyə Enrike vurğulayıb.
Yeri gəlmişkən, PSJ-nin portuqal yarımmüdafiəçisi Vitinya da parislilərin ispan baş məşqçisi Luis Enrike haqda söhbət açıb:
“Luis Enrike mənim üçün müəyyənləşdirici amil oldu. O, mənim tərəqqimi təşkil edib”, deyə Vitinya vurğulayıb.
Bruno Fernandes is expected to hold discussions with Manchester United at the end of the season to clarify his long-term future at Old Trafford.
According to TEAMtalk, the club captain is not actively seeking an exit, despite renewed speculation about potential interest from abroad.
The Portugal international has remained one of United’s most influential figures in recent campaigns, but with the club navigating another transitional phase, it is natural that conversations about direction and ambition are beginning to surface.
The 31-year-old midfielder has scored seven goals and provide 14 assists for the Premier League giants this season.
Fernandes has consistently been central to United’s attacking play since arriving from Sporting CP in January 2020.
He has delivered goals, assists and leadership in equal measure, often carrying creative responsibility during challenging periods.
His work rate and intensity have made him a key presence in the dressing room, and he was appointed captain as recognition of that influence.
Last summer, Fernandes was linked with a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League, as clubs in the region continue targeting high-profile European talent.
More recently, Fernandes has spoken publicly about being open one day to playing in Italy or Spain, leagues he has long admired for their tactical depth and historical prestige.
Man United are widely expected to reshape parts of their squad this summer, with midfield and attacking reinforcements high on the agenda.
For Fernandes, clarity over the club’s long-term project will likely be a decisive factor.
At 31, he remains at the peak of his career and will be eager to compete consistently for major honours.
Multiple outlets have reported that United view him as a pillar of their rebuild rather than a saleable asset.
His contract situation provides the club with leverage, and there is no financial urgency to part ways.
Liverpool set to compete with Man United for €80m-rated “future defensive leader”
The post Bruno Fernandes makes future decision and wants to hold talks with Man United appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Manchester City are keeping a close watch on Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha, according to Sky Sports Germany, as Pep Guardiola continues to refine his options in the centre of the pitch.
The 25-year-old Germany international is reportedly open to the idea of testing himself in the Premier League, even said to “dream” of playing in England’s top flight.
It is worth mentioning that Manchester United are also closely monitoring the Dortmund midfielder and if they decide to step up their interest, they could be involved in an intense competition with their city rivals for the transfer of the midfielder.
While no formal bid has been made, the situation is developing against the backdrop of Dortmund’s efforts to tie Nmecha down to a new and improved contract.
Nmecha has steadily established himself as a key figure in Dortmund’s midfield since joining from Wolfsburg.
Known for his athleticism and ball-carrying ability, he offers versatility across central roles.
He is comfortable operating as a box-to-box midfielder, capable of contributing defensively while driving forward in transition.
Guardiola has often sought players who combine physical presence with technical security.
Perhaps interest in signing him could be linked with the future of Spanish midfielder Rodri, who has attracted interest from top Spanish clubs.
Despite growing external interest, Borussia Dortmund remain in a strong negotiating position.
Nmecha’s current contract runs until 2028, giving the club leverage in discussions.
Reports suggest they are already engaged in talks over an extension that would include improved financial terms.
Allowing Nmecha to leave prematurely would require a compelling offer.
For Man City, he represents a dynamic midfield option with room to grow. For Dortmund, securing his long-term commitment would signal intent.
Liverpool set to compete with Man United for €80m-rated “future defensive leader”
The post Midfielder who ‘dreams’ of Premier League move is wanted by Man City and Man United appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Bottom-of-the-table Wolverhampton Wanderers pulled off a massive 2-1 upset against Liverpool at Molineux, dealing a heavy blow to the Reds’ Champions League qualification hopes.
Despite dominating possession, Liverpool struggled to find a breakthrough from open play against a resolute Wolves defense. The match suddenly exploded into life in the final stretches.
Gomes opened the scoring for Wolves in the 78th minute, shocking the visitors and sending Molineux into a frenzy.
Mohamed Salah finally ended his 10-match Premier League goal drought in the 83rd minute, slotting home a quick equaliser that seemingly rescued a point for Liverpool.
Disaster struck for the Reds. Following a weak clearance from Alisson, Wolves midfielder André unleashed a shot from the edge of the area in the 94th minute.
The ball took a massive, looping deflection off defender Joe Gomez, completely wrong-footing Alisson and sealing a dramatic 2-1 victory for the hosts.
Ahead of the match, Liverpool boss Arne Slot talked about his future and suggested that he needs more time.
He said, as reported by Fabrizio Romano:
“A rebuild takes time, a transition takes time, and that’s what we did last summer”.
“But we didn’t expect the league to become like it did this season. You couldn’t know this because last season it wasn’t as extreme as it is this season”.
Liverpool are now 5th in the Premier League, three points behind both Manchester United and Aston Villa.
A win against Wolves would have given them hope of a top four finish but now thing are looking difficult for them looking at their fixture list.
As for Slot, he has been unlucky with injuries to key players this season but the style of football at the club has been poor, something that Liverpool fans are not used to.
He has not only struggled to make them play attractive football like the fans want, his over all management of the squad has been shocking, with some bench players not getting the minutes they deserve.
His future remains uncertain at Anfield and it would not be a surprise if he is shown the exit door at the end of the season.
Sources: Liverpool prepare €45 million plus bonuses package for Man United midfield target
The post Arne Slot is trying to buy time at Liverpool with his latest comments on his future appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Juventus midfielder Khéphren Thuram is expected to be one of the most closely watched players in the upcoming summer transfer window, with several Premier League clubs monitoring his situation in Turin.
The France international has grown significantly since arriving in Italy, developing into one of Europe’s most coveted box-to-box midfielders thanks to his physical dominance and ability to influence matches at both ends of the pitch.
Sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside that both Liverpool and Manchester United are interested in signing the French midfielder to strengthen their squad and add depth in their midfield.
While Juventus have publicly insisted that Thuram remains a central part of their long-term project, the realities of modern football finances mean few players are entirely untouchable.
Since joining Juventus, Thuram has steadily established himself as a key figure in the club’s midfield structure.
Standing out for his athleticism and ball-carrying ability, the 24-year-old has added tactical maturity to his game, becoming more disciplined defensively while still offering forward thrust.
He can operate as a traditional box-to-box midfielder, shield the defence in deeper areas, or drive forward to support attacking transitions.
The midfielder has made 35 appearances for Juventus in all competitions this season.
Liverpool, Manchester United, and Arsenal are among the Premier League sides assessing Thuram as a potential target.
Liverpool are believed to be particularly interested in adding more physical presence and ball-winning ability to their midfield, with suggestions that a package worth around €45 million plus bonuses could be explored.
Man United, meanwhile, view Thuram as a potential building block for the next phase of their midfield evolution, especially as they prepare for life beyond Casemiro.
Arsenal’s interest appears more cautious, though the club’s recruitment department reportedly admires Thuram’s technical quality and ability to thrive in high-tempo systems.
With Juventus holding him under contract until 2029, the Italian club retain strong leverage in negotiations.
The expected valuation, between €65 million and €75 million, reflects his current importance.
Liverpool star blamed for defeat against Wolves for what he did just before the goal
The post Sources: Liverpool prepare €45 million plus bonuses package for Man United midfield target appeared first on CaughtOffside.
The post Bitcoin Price Holds Near $68K as South Korea Stock Market Crashes appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News
Bitcoin traded near $68,200 on Wednesday as global markets reacted to a sharp sell-off in South Korea’s stock market and rising geopolitical tension in the Middle East.
The cryptocurrency rose about 0.7 percent in the past 24 hours after briefly slipping below $67,500 earlier this week. Data shows Bitcoin held above a 24-hour low of $67,406 while trading volumes increased during early Asian hours.
The move comes as investors assess broader market stress following a sudden decline in South Korea’s benchmark KOSPI index.
South Korea’s stock market plunged more than 10 percent during Wednesday trading, triggering a circuit breaker after an earlier 8 percent drop halted trading temporarily.
The sell-off wiped out an estimated $270 billion in market value in a single session. Major semiconductor companies led the decline. Samsung Electronics fell about 10 percent, while SK Hynix dropped roughly 12 percent.
The sharp decline came as oil prices climbed above $80 amid tension in the Middle East and concerns over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
South Korea imports most of its energy supply, and disruptions in the region can raise production costs for industries such as semiconductor manufacturing.
The global chip sector plays a major role in artificial intelligence infrastructure, particularly through high-bandwidth memory used in advanced computing systems.
Institutional flows into Bitcoin remain active despite volatility in global markets.
Data from spot Bitcoin ETF filings shows BlackRock’s fund purchased roughly $264 million worth of Bitcoin within the past 24 hours. The inflow indicates continued institutional exposure to the asset class even as traditional markets face turbulence.
While equities in Asia dropped sharply, Bitcoin remained relatively stable. The cryptocurrency continues to trade within a consolidation range between roughly $67,000 and $70,000.
A daily close above $70,000 could strengthen the bullish structure and open the path toward $77,000.
On the downside, a close below $62,000 would weaken the market structure and increase the risk of a deeper correction.
Current price action forms a bear flag pattern, which historically can lead to a downward breakout if selling pressure increases.
Several support and resistance levels remain important for Bitcoin’s next move. A major support zone between $54,000 and $57,000. Another support level sits near $55,000, which previously acted as strong horizontal support during earlier market corrections.
On the upside, Bitcoin continues to face resistance near the top of its current consolidation range, a level the price has struggled to break in recent sessions.
A decisive move above this resistance could trigger another bullish rally, while a drop below support may open the door for a deeper correction toward the mid-$50,000 range.
The post AI Models Favor Bitcoin Over Fiat in New Study appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News
A new study by the Bitcoin Policy Institute shows that 22 of 36 top AI models ranked Bitcoin as their preferred currency in simulated economic tests, while none chose fiat as their top pick. Researchers evaluated models from OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, DeepSeek, xAI, and MiniMax across 28 currency scenarios, including store of value, payments, and settlement efficiency. The findings suggest AI sees Bitcoin’s digital properties as more favorable than traditional money in key economic roles.
The post XRP Price Prediction 2026: What 3 AI Models Say About the Next Cycle appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News
The cryptocurrency market has been volatile in early 2026, and XRP has not been immune to the volatility. Over the past month, the digital asset lost roughly 45% of its value within four weeks.
However, some analysts argue that the recent decline may not tell the full story. New projections generated by three artificial intelligence models hint that XRP’s long-term trajectory could look very different from its recent performance.
The recent downturn followed technical issues and broader market pressure, which pushed XRP into one of its steepest short-term corrections in recent years.
While the price dropped sharply, network activity on the XRP Ledger reportedly increased by about 30% during the same period. For analysts, that divergence between price and usage has sparked debate about whether the asset’s market value is temporarily disconnecting from its underlying utility.
In traditional markets, such situations sometimes occur when investors react strongly to short-term news while long-term fundamentals continue to develop.
To better understand XRP’s possible path forward, analysts applied three separate artificial intelligence forecasting models. Each model produced a different outlook based on varying assumptions about adoption, liquidity and market cycles.
Model One: Utility-Driven Floor
The first model estimates a conservative range of $1.50 to $2. This scenario assumes XRP continues growing steadily through real-world payment use cases and institutional transaction flows.
Even without strong retail speculation, the model suggests that rising activity on the XRP Ledger could support a gradual price increase over time.
Model Two: Cyclical Growth Scenario
A second model places XRP within a $3 to $5 range, drawing comparisons to historical crypto market cycles.
This projection assumes that XRP benefits from broader market expansion and increasing adoption following legal clarity and infrastructure development across the network.
Under this scenario, XRP evolves from a speculative asset into a more mature financial instrument used in cross-border transactions and liquidity management.
Model Three: Liquidity Shock Outlier
The most aggressive model explores a scenario in which XRP’s role in global payment infrastructure expands rapidly. If financial institutions adopt the network as a major bridge liquidity layer, demand for XRP could increase significantly.
In that case, the model says the token could potentially move into double-digit territory during the next major market cycle.
Analysts warn that this outcome depends heavily on institutional adoption and broader financial market developments.
Despite these projections, the crypto market remains sensitive to short-term sentiment.
Large price swings often occur when traders react quickly to news events, technical issues or macroeconomic developments. In the short term, market behavior can resemble what investors describe as a “voting machine,” where sentiment dominates.
Over longer periods, however, price movements tend to align more closely with utility, adoption and network growth.
The post Circle Mints $1B USDC on Solana appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News
Circle has minted $1 billion in USDC on Solana in just hours, bringing its total 2026 issuance on the network to $23.75 billion. Institutions and exchanges create USDC by depositing dollars, fueling liquidity for trading, DeFi protocols, and new token launches on Solana’s fast, low-fee blockchain. Analysts view the surge as significant “dry powder” ready for market deployment, boosting Solana’s role as a leading stablecoin hub alongside Ethereum and Tron.
The post Ethereum Queue Hits 3.4M ETH, 60-Day Wait appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News
Ethereum’s validator entry queue has ballooned to around 3.4 million ETH, signaling strong demand from large investors, corporations, and crypto exchanges choosing to stake rather than sell during recent market conditions. This has created one of the longest staking queues since the move to Proof of Stake, with an estimated 60-day wait for new validators to activate. Compared with about 904,000 ETH in early January, the sharp rise shows a growing commitment to locking up ETH for yield and long-term participation in network security.
Azərbaycan Premyer Liqasında 22 tur geridə qalıb.
Futbolpress.az-ın məlumatına görə, çempionatda üç komanda uzun müddətdir, qələbə qazana bilmir.
Bunlar autsayder “Karvan-Yevlax”, “Qəbələ” və “İmişli”dir.
Turnir cədvəlinin sonuncusu “Karvan-Yevlax” bu mövsüm cəmi 1 qələbə qazanıb. Yevlax təmsilçisinin yeganə üç xal qazancı 20 tur əvvəl – II turda “Kəpəz”lə matçda olub – 3:2. Füzuli Məmmədovun rəhbərlik etdiyi kollektiv bu mövsüm cəmi 7 xal toplayıb.
“Qəbələ” son beş oyunda qələbə qazana bilməyib. Mövsümün ikinci dövrəsinə yaxşı başlayan və ardıcıl iki qələbə qazanan “qırmızı-qaralar” daha sonra 3 dəfə məğlub olub, 2 dəfə heç-heçə edib. “Qəbələ” 16 xalla 10-cu sıradadır.
Premyer Liqanın debütantı “İmişli” isə 10 oyundur, qələbəyə həsrətdir. Komanda sonuncu dəfə ötən ilin noyabrında “Neftçi” səfərində üç xala sevinib. Jorj Kaşkilyanın rəhbərlik etdiyi komanda qələbə qazana bilməsə də, heç-heçələr hesabına xallarını artırmağı bacarır. “İmişli” 21 xalla 9-cu sıradadır.
Şahin Cəfərov
Azərbaycan Kubokunda 1/4 final mərhələsinin cavab oyunlarına təyinatlar açıqlanıb.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu gün baş tutacaq “Qarabağ” – “Şamaxı” oyununu Fərid Hacıyev idarə edəcək.
4 mart
“Qarabağ” – “Şamaxı”
Hakimlər: Fərid Hacıyev, Rəhman İmami, Zöhrab Abbasov, Rəşad Əhmədov
VAR: İnqilab Məmmədov
AVAR: Teymur Teymurov
Hakim-inspektor: Babək Quliyev
AFFA nümayəndəsi: Zaur Hacı-Məhərrəmov
Tofiq Bəhramov adına Respublika Stadionu, 19:00
5 mart (cümə axşamı)
“Kəpəz” – “Turan Tovuz”
Hakimlər: Cavid Cəlilov, Kamran Bayramov, Müslüm Əliyev, İslam Məmmədov
VAR: Kamranbəy Rəhimov
AVAR: Akif Əmirəli
Hakim-inspektor: Rövşən Əhmədov
AFFA nümayəndəsi: Anar Şixəliyev
Yevlax şəhər stadionu, 14:30
“Qəbələ” – “Sabah”
Hakimlər: Rəvan Həmzəzadə, Cəmil Quliyev, Şirmamed Mamedov, Əli Əliyev
VAR: Kamal Umudlu
AVAR: Elvin Bayramov
Hakim-inspektor: Asim Xudiyev
AFFA nümayəndəsi: Yavər Rəhimov
Qəbələ şəhər stadionu, 18:00
“Red Bull” şirkətinin qlobal idman direktoru Yurgen Klopp vəzifəsindən kənarlaşdırıla bilər.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə “Lequipe” nəşri məlumat yayıb. Xəbərdə rəhbərliyin funksionerin fəaliyyətindən narazı olduğu bildirilib. Kloppun bəzi qərarları son dönəmlərdə rəhbərlikdə çox tənqid edilib.
Alman mütəxəssisin adı bir müddət əvvəl “Real”la hallanırdı.
Klopp 2015-2024-cü illərdə “Liverpul”a rəhbərlik edib. O, 2025-ci ilin yanvarından “Red Bull” şirkətində çalışır.
Fransanın PSJ klubunun U-23 komandasının qapıçısı Bilal Laurendon karyerasını Azərbaycanda davam etdirə bilər.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə “Lequipe” nəşri məlumat yayıb. 20 yaşlı qolkiperin mövsümün sonunda azad agent kimi “Sabah”a qoşulacağı bildirilir. Məlumata görə, tərəflər arasında artıq anlaşma əldə edilib.
Laurendon 2019-cu ildən PSJ-nin akademiyasındadır. O, əsas komanda ilə cəmi bir matça çıxıb. Bilal MərakeşinU-20 yığmasının da üzvüdür.
Bu gün Azərbaycan II Liqasında XVI tura yekun vurulacaq.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, sonuncu oyun günündə bir qarşılaşma keçiriləcək. “Dinamo” “Şirvan”la üz-üzə gələcək.
Azərbaycan II Liqası
XVI tur
4 mart
14:30 Dinamo – Şirvan
Binə qəsəbə stadionu
Turun əvvəlki oyunları:
Qaradağ Lökbatan – Şəmkir 4:0
Xankəndi – Araz Saatlı 1:1
Sheki City – Ağdaş 1:4
Ağstafa Gəncləri – Göygöl 1:1
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Brooklyn Nets (15-46, 14th in the Eastern Conference) vs. Miami Heat (33-29, eighth in the Eastern Conference)
Miami; Thursday, 7:30 p.m. EST
BOTTOM LINE: Miami hosts Brooklyn looking to prolong its three-game home winning streak.
The Heat are 17-18 in conference play. Miami is third in the league with 54.4 points in the paint led by Jaime Jaquez Jr. averaging 10.2.
The Nets have gone 11-27 against Eastern Conference opponents. Brooklyn is the worst team in the Eastern Conference scoring averaging 106.8 points per game while shooting 44.5%.
The Heat are shooting 46.4% from the field this season, 3.2 percentage points lower than the 49.6% the Nets allow to opponents. The Heat average 106.8 points per game, 9.9 fewer points than the 116.7 the Heat allow.
The teams square off for the third time this season. In the last matchup on March 4 the Heat won 124-98 led by 23 points from Bam Adebayo, while Noah Clowney scored 17 points for the Nets.
TOP PERFORMERS: Adebayo is averaging 18.7 points and 9.9 rebounds for the Heat. Andrew Wiggins is averaging 16.3 points and 5.8 rebounds over the last 10 games.
Michael Porter Jr. is scoring 24.1 points per game and averaging 6.9 rebounds for the Nets. Clowney is averaging 2.0 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Heat: 6-4, averaging 119.9 points, 50.5 rebounds, 28.0 assists, 8.9 steals and 4.7 blocks per game while shooting 46.4% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 109.7 points per game.
Nets: 1-9, averaging 104.2 points, 37.7 rebounds, 26.1 assists, 8.5 steals and 4.0 blocks per game while shooting 44.7% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 118.9 points.
INJURIES: Heat: Nikola Jovic: day to day (back), Norman Powell: out (groin).
Nets: Egor Demin: day to day (injury management).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
Chicago Bulls (25-37, 12th in the Eastern Conference) vs. Phoenix Suns (34-26, seventh in the Western Conference)
Phoenix; Thursday, 9 p.m. EST
BOTTOM LINE: Chicago will attempt to stop its five-game road losing streak when the Bulls visit Phoenix.
The Suns have gone 20-12 at home. Phoenix is sixth in the league allowing just 111.4 points per game while holding opponents to 46.9% shooting.
The Bulls are 9-19 on the road. Chicago is second in the Eastern Conference with 34.6 defensive rebounds per game led by Josh Giddey averaging 7.0.
The Suns are shooting 45.3% from the field this season, 2.2 percentage points lower than the 47.5% the Bulls allow to opponents. The Bulls average 115.7 points per game, 4.3 more than the 111.4 the Suns give up.
TOP PERFORMERS: Mark Williams is averaging 11.6 points and 8.1 rebounds for the Suns. Collin Gillespie is averaging 13.9 points over the last 10 games.
Matas Buzelis is averaging 15.3 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.5 blocks for the Bulls. Collin Sexton is averaging 13.6 points over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Suns: 4-6, averaging 103.7 points, 44.1 rebounds, 22.6 assists, 8.8 steals and 3.3 blocks per game while shooting 42.2% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 111.2 points per game.
Bulls: 1-9, averaging 108.9 points, 42.7 rebounds, 25.3 assists, 8.9 steals and 5.2 blocks per game while shooting 44.8% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 118.9 points.
INJURIES: Suns: Jordan Goodwin: out (calf), Dillon Brooks: out (hand).
Bulls: Anfernee Simons: day to day (wrist), Noa Essengue: out for season (shoulder), Jaden Ivey: out (knee), Patrick Williams: day to day (quadriceps), Zach Collins: out for season (toe), Jalen Smith: day to day (calf).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
Oklahoma City Thunder (48-15, first in the Western Conference) vs. New York Knicks (40-22, third in the Eastern Conference)
New York; Wednesday, 7 p.m. EST
BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Thunder -4.5; over/under is 221.5
BOTTOM LINE: Oklahoma City seeks to keep its three-game win streak alive when the Thunder take on New York.
The Knicks have gone 23-8 at home. New York is fourth in the league averaging 14.8 made 3-pointers per game while shooting 37.5% from deep. Jalen Brunson leads the team averaging 2.9 makes while shooting 37.8% from 3-point range.
The Thunder are 23-8 on the road. Oklahoma City is seventh in the Western Conference with 25.5 assists per game led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander averaging 6.4.
The Knicks make 47.2% of their shots from the field this season, which is 3.6 percentage points higher than the Thunder have allowed to their opponents (43.6%). The Thunder average 13.5 made 3-pointers per game this season, 0.1 fewer makes per game than the Knicks give up.
TOP PERFORMERS: Karl-Anthony Towns is shooting 48.0% and averaging 19.8 points for the Knicks. Brunson is averaging 24.8 points over the last 10 games.
Isaiah Joe is shooting 44.6% and averaging 11.0 points for the Thunder. Jared McCain is averaging 2.1 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Knicks: 7-3, averaging 115.3 points, 44.5 rebounds, 28.9 assists, 8.8 steals and 4.5 blocks per game while shooting 48.6% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 103.7 points per game.
Thunder: 8-2, averaging 114.9 points, 45.9 rebounds, 25.5 assists, 9.4 steals and 5.0 blocks per game while shooting 45.8% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 107.5 points.
INJURIES: Knicks: Miles McBride: out (ankle).
Thunder: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: day to day (abdominal), Ajay Mitchell: day to day (abdomen), Branden Carlson: day to day (back), Jalen Williams: out (hamstring), Thomas Sorber: out for season (knee), Isaiah Hartenstein: day to day (injury management).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
Charlotte Hornets (31-31, ninth in the Eastern Conference) vs. Boston Celtics (41-20, second in the Eastern Conference)
Boston; Wednesday, 7:30 p.m. EST
BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Celtics -6.5; over/under is 214.5
BOTTOM LINE: Charlotte is looking to keep its five-game win streak alive when the Hornets take on Boston.
The Celtics are 27-13 against Eastern Conference opponents. Boston is sixth in the NBA with 46.2 rebounds led by Nikola Vucevic averaging 8.8.
The Hornets are 19-21 in conference matchups. Charlotte is 7-8 when it turns the ball over less than its opponents and averages 15.0 turnovers per game.
The Celtics average 15.5 made 3-pointers per game this season, 2.7 more made shots on average than the 12.8 per game the Hornets allow. The Hornets average 16.0 made 3-pointers per game this season, 2.1 more made shots on average than the 13.9 per game the Celtics allow.
TOP PERFORMERS: Jaylen Brown is averaging 29 points, 7.1 rebounds and five assists for the Celtics. Payton Pritchard is averaging 17 points and 5.8 assists over the past 10 games.
Kon Knueppel is averaging 19.2 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists for the Hornets. Brandon Miller is averaging 22.7 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.6 assists over the past 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Celtics: 8-2, averaging 109.4 points, 50.7 rebounds, 27.1 assists, 6.1 steals and 6.4 blocks per game while shooting 45.7% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 98.5 points per game.
Hornets: 7-3, averaging 117.3 points, 47.8 rebounds, 27.4 assists, 8.5 steals and 4.2 blocks per game while shooting 45.6% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 106.2 points.
INJURIES: Celtics: Jayson Tatum: out (achilles), Neemias Queta: day to day (rest).
Hornets: Coby White: day to day (injury management).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
Utah Jazz (18-43, 14th in the Western Conference) vs. Philadelphia 76ers (33-28, sixth in the Eastern Conference)
Philadelphia; Wednesday, 7:30 p.m. EST
BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: 76ers -9.5; over/under is 241.5
BOTTOM LINE: Utah heads into the matchup against Philadelphia as losers of six straight games.
The 76ers are 16-16 on their home court. Philadelphia has a 14-21 record against opponents above .500.
The Jazz are 7-22 on the road. Utah ranks third in the Western Conference scoring 52.1 points per game in the paint led by Lauri Markkanen averaging 11.7.
The 76ers score 116.0 points per game, 9.8 fewer points than the 125.8 the Jazz allow. The Jazz average 12.9 made 3-pointers per game this season, 0.3 fewer makes per game than the 76ers allow.
TOP PERFORMERS: Tyrese Maxey is averaging 29 points, 6.7 assists and two steals for the 76ers. VJ Edgecombe is averaging 15.9 points over the last 10 games.
Isaiah Collier is scoring 11.0 points per game and averaging 2.5 rebounds for the Jazz. Brice Sensabaugh is averaging 15.6 points and 3.4 rebounds over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: 76ers: 4-6, averaging 111.7 points, 42.3 rebounds, 22.0 assists, 10.2 steals and 5.4 blocks per game while shooting 44.0% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 120.3 points per game.
Jazz: 2-8, averaging 115.8 points, 44.6 rebounds, 26.7 assists, 11.3 steals and 3.9 blocks per game while shooting 45.9% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 120.0 points.
INJURIES: 76ers: Johni Broome: out (knee), Joel Embiid: out (oblique), VJ Edgecombe: day to day (back), Kelly Oubre Jr.: day to day (illness).
Jazz: Lauri Markkanen: out (ankle), Vince Williams Jr.: out for season (acl), Walker Kessler: out for season (shoulder), Jusuf Nurkic: out for season (nose), Jaren Jackson Jr.: out for season (knee).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
Portland Trail Blazers (29-33, 10th in the Western Conference) vs. Memphis Grizzlies (23-37, 11th in the Western Conference)
Memphis, Tennessee; Wednesday, 8 p.m. EST
BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Trail Blazers -6.5; over/under is 237.5
BOTTOM LINE: Deni Avdija and the Portland Trail Blazers take on Cam Spencer and the Memphis Grizzlies in Western Conference action.
The Grizzlies are 18-24 against Western Conference opponents. Memphis has a 2-4 record in one-possession games.
The Trail Blazers are 22-18 in Western Conference play. Portland gives up 118.4 points to opponents and has been outscored by 3.2 points per game.
The Grizzlies are shooting 46.2% from the field this season, 1.4 percentage points lower than the 47.6% the Trail Blazers allow to opponents. The Trail Blazers average 115.2 points per game, 2.5 fewer than the 117.7 the Grizzlies allow to opponents.
The two teams match up for the fourth time this season. The Trail Blazers defeated the Grizzlies 122-115 in their last matchup on Feb. 8. Jerami Grant led the Trail Blazers with 29 points, and Olivier-Maxence Prosper led the Grizzlies with 25 points.
TOP PERFORMERS: Spencer is shooting 47.7% and averaging 11.4 points for the Grizzlies. Jaylen Wells is averaging 1.8 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
Avdija is averaging 24.4 points, seven rebounds and 6.6 assists for the Trail Blazers. Jrue Holiday is averaging 19.3 points over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Grizzlies: 3-7, averaging 117.2 points, 36.9 rebounds, 28.6 assists, 12.6 steals and 5.4 blocks per game while shooting 48.8% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 119.2 points per game.
Trail Blazers: 5-5, averaging 113.2 points, 45.0 rebounds, 26.2 assists, 7.7 steals and 6.2 blocks per game while shooting 45.1% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 119.9 points.
INJURIES: Grizzlies: Santi Aldama: day to day (injury management), Taj Gibson: day to day (coach decision), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: out for season (finger), Ja Morant: out (elbow), Zach Edey: out for season (ankle), Brandon Clarke: out (calf).
Trail Blazers: Kris Murray: day to day (illness), Deni Avdija: day to day (back), Shaedon Sharpe: out (calf), Damian Lillard: out for season (achilles).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
What channel is Devils vs. Leafs on today? Time, TV schedule, live stream to watch Wednesday NHL game originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
In a matchup where the desperation of the trade deadline meets the urgency of a collapsing playoff race, the Toronto Maple Leafs travel to the Prudential Center tomorrow night to face the New Jersey Devils.
With the March 6 deadline now looming, both clubs find themselves on the outside of the Eastern Conference playoff picture, separated by just three points. For Toronto, coming off a frustrating shootout loss to the Flyers, this is a final opportunity to prove they are buyers rather than sellers. For Sheldon Keefe’s Devils, who have struggled to find consistency all season, it’s a must-win at home to avoid a total teardown before Friday’s 3 p.m. ET cutoff.
The storylines on the ice are just as volatile as the rumors off it. All eyes will be on Brandon Carlo, whose return to the lineup for Toronto comes amid heavy speculation that the Leafs are looking to move him to recoup assets. Meanwhile, the Devils will lean on Jack Hughes to ignite an offense that has been uncharacteristically quiet during their recent slide.
With both front offices reportedly active on the phones, tomorrow’s result could very well determine which of these rosters stays intact and which is dismantled by the time they hit the ice again on Saturday.
Here's everything you need to know about the game, from TV to streaming options.
Maple Leafs vs. Devils will not air on a national TV channel. Hockey fans can stream the game on the ESPN App.
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Maple Leafs vs. Canadiens will start at 7 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Oct. 8. The game will be played at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.
Fans can listen to the Maple Leafs vs. Devils broadcast live on SiriusXM channel 91.
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Here are the next five games on Toronto's 2025-26 schedule:
| Date | Matchup | Time (ET) |
| Mar. 5 | at New York Rangers | 7 p.m. |
| Mar. 7 | vs. Tampa Bay Lightning | 7 p.m. |
| Mar. 10 | at Montreal Canadiens | 7 p.m. |
| Mar. 12 | vs. Anaheim Ducks | 7 p.m. |
| Mar. 14 | at Buffalo Sabres | 7 p.m. |
Here are the next five games on New Jersey's 2025-26 schedule:
| Date | Matchup | Time (ET) |
| Mar. 7 | vs. New York Rangers | 3 p.m. |
| Mar. 8 | vs. Detroit Red Wings | 7 p.m. |
| Mar. 12 | vs. Calgary Flames | 7 p.m. |
| Mar. 14 | vs. Los Angeles Kings | 7 p.m. |
| Mar. 16 | vs. Boston Bruins | 7 p.m. |
Ranking the NFL’s best free agent RBs available in 2026, from Kenneth Walker III to Aaron Jones originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The free-agent running back class in 2026 won't come close to having the same special impact as those stars signed in 2024.
Two years later, with Breece Hall franchise-tagged by the Jets, there's not much in the way of feature backs, but some good complementary and backup options available.
Here's looking at the veteran runners (and receivers) who can help teams most on the open market:
FREE AGENCY: Ranking top 100 free agents, best players available by position
Walker is coming off his dominant Super Bowl 60 MVP performance vs. the Patriots. He is a power runner with extra juice to the outside and is better off staying as the early-down option, with limited touches give a few nicks for receiving and pass protection.
Etienne looks ready to sign elsewhere as the team can move on fine with second-year back Bhayshul Tuten and others in Liam Coen's offense. The Chiefs should covet his versatility as they try to clean up their backfield and can no longer pursue Hall.
Allgeier should have plenty of appeal as a reliable all-around power back with his previous work behind Bijan Robinson. He would fit best as a goal-line type change of pace, like he was in Atlanta.
MORE: Ranking the top QBs in 2026 free agency
Gainwell was a valuable, versatile Eagle before having some explosive work to complement Jaylen Warren in Pittsburgh. He might get a chance to return late in the process.
Dowdle flashed big-game ability in Carolina but couldn't get the key workload over Chuba Hubbard in the end. He does a little of everything well as a strong backup, like he was for a long time in Dallas.
Robinson rebounded from his time in Washington to one of Christian McCaffrey's strongest backups. He can find more power and pop in any Kyle Shanahan adjacent zone-blocking offense.
Dobbins can be dynamic and red zone productive when on the field, but durability issues have lingered throughout his whole career in Baltimore and Denver. Whoever signs him must have a solid No. 2 option.
MORE:Sporting News' 2-round mock draft
White went from a receiving option in the Tom Brady era with limited running pop to someone now just as valuable in the rushing attack. He got overtaken by Bucky Irving with the Bucs, but it would be intriguing in a more even committee.
Harris was off to a promising start with his second team after leaving Pittsburgh but was quickly derailed by a torn Achilles. He is still a solid power running with good receiving skills, who might be a good fit replacing David Montgomery in Detroit.
MORE:Top 140 big board of top prospects in 2026
Until the Cardinals put James Conner on the market, Jones would be the older, reliable available with Minnesota planning to release him. He would work well again with a young back, much like Dobbins did with R.J. Harvey and did with Omarion Hampton.
Barcelona could not overcome the four-goal deficit from the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final against Atletico Madrid, but did put in a strong performance.
The honest truth is that he had little to do, but made one smart save down to his left. Was relatively sharp out of his goal.
Off after 11 minutes with injury, highly unfortunate for Kounde, who had started well. Will miss their Champions League tie against Newcastle United.
Cubarsi has struggled this season, but this was his best performance in 18 months. Absolutely brilliant for a Barcelona that defended aggressively, suffocating first Julian Alvarez and then Alexander Sorloth, and had stunning last-man challenge on Alex Baena that kept Barcelona live. Most impressive was his anticipation and his decision-making, putting his foot in where necessary.
Image via FC Barcelona
Several hasty passes and crosses gave the ball away on multiple occasions in the first half. Largely solid going the other way, had a good chance late on to hit the target.
Switched to right-back after Kounde’s injury early on. Strong in the challenge, and neat with his play, Cancelo looked at home. Most of Barcelona’s attacking play came through him and Lamine Yamal, and he generated plenty of danger. Picked up a nice assist for Bernal too.
This was the first big game that Marc Bernal started, and he finished with medals on his lapel, even if Barcelona won’t be in Seville. Quite apart from his brace, both goals well taken, Bernal was crucial in being able to put the clamps on Atletico Madrid, with Koke and Johnny Cardoso struggling to find clean passes.
Another masterclass from Pedri. Basically couldn’t move after the 75th minute, and somehow still made two last-man tackles on Alexander Sorloth. If Barcelona had a chance in this one though, it was because of Pedri, who denatured Atletico’s pressing efforts, and found ways to get Lamine Yamal the ball in better positions. Won the penalty too.
Lamine Yamal played like he had 99% faith. Time and again he demanded the ball, time and again he beat Matteo Ruggeri, Ademola Lookman and David Hancko. The first goal comes from his brilliant assist, the second he was involved in, and if Barcelona were to find a fourth, it was coming from him. In this form, it’s almost impossible to contain him.
A strangely mute performance from Fermin, who was withdrawn for the closing stages. The couple of shooting opportunities he did have, he could not connect with properly, and generally just didn’t make his presence felt, which he almost always does.
It was a poor first half, where he wasted several good positions, but he improved after the penalty. Still, even in the second half, he struggled to find spaces or shooting opportunities. That said, he remained a motor behind Barcelona’s pressure.
Image via Enric Fontcuberta / EFE
A rough and rusty night for Ferran, who could complain little when he was taken off first. Had three half-chances in the first half, none of which he should have scored, but you would expect better from at least one. Was involved in the play for the penalty, but that stood out precisely because he was so absent from the build-up.
Forced on early for Kounde. Defended relatively well for an hour before being forced off in tears, but didn’t add much either.
On for Fermin after 64 minutes, Olmo was also incapable of finding fissures in the Atletico midfield. Struggled to give his side the energy they needed in the final stages too.
Was a little starved of service on the left, with no supply line close to him, but did well when he got the ball, winning a number of corners.
Sent on up front for the final 20 minutes, a role that is not necessarily his, so it is hard to be too critical. Yet the Atletico defence were completely unfazed by his presence in the box, and he was caught offside on a couple of occasions.
No. 19 Miami secured its first Mid-American Conference (MAC) championship in 21 years on Tuesday.
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Miami claimed its 22nd all-time MAC regular season title by beating Toledo, 74-72, in front of a sellout crowd at Millett Hall.
Peter Suder led four RedHawks in double figures with 19 points. Antwone Woolfolk scored 14 while Brant Byers finished with 13 points. Luke Skaljac had 11 points.
Miami improved to 30-0 overall and 17-0 in the MAC. They remain the nation’s only unbeaten team in Division I men’s basketball.
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The Red and White jumped out to an 11-2 lead to start the game. They led by as many as 13 points, 31-18, thanks to Skaljac’s three-pointer with 7:43 left in the first half.
But the Rockets responded with a 12-0 run, cutting the deficit to 31-30. Suder closed the first half with a layup to put Miami ahead, 40-35, at the break.
The RedHawks built a second-half lead, 54-45, with 12:32 remaining. But Toledo went on an 11-2 run to cut the deficit to 56-55 with 9:32 left.
Eian Elmer buried a three-pointer to end a four-minute scoring drought as Miami led, 59-55.
The Rockets trailed, 74-72, and had a chance to win the game. But Skaljac forced a turnover with one-tenth of a second left.
With the win, the RedHawks will be the No. 1 seed in the upcoming MAC Tournament in Cleveland.
Miami concludes the regular season at Ohio in Athens in the Battle of the Bricks.
Tip-off is at 9 p.m.
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Aston Villa boss Unai Emery believes playing at Villa Park will be an advantage ahead of Wednesday night’s game against Chelsea.
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The Blues travel to the Midlands in what is a huge game in the race for Champions League football, and a win would see them close the gap to Villa in fourth to three points.
Chelsea currently sit sixth, three points behind Liverpool, although they’ve played a game less than the Champions, whilst they’re six points behind both Villa and Manchester United in third and fourth.
Chelsea aren’t on the best run of form heading into the game, with defeat against Arsenal on Sunday making it two points from their last three games.
Villa likewise are struggling and lost to bottom club Wolves on Friday night, but the Blues know anything other than a win will be another blow to their hopes of finishing in the top five.
Villa beat Chelsea 2-1 at Stamford Bridge earlier in the season. (Photo by Luke Walker/Getty Images)
Chelsea are without the suspended Pedro Neto, whilst Estevao is still sidelined, although there’s a chance Marc Cucurella could return.
Villa won the reverse fixture 2-1 at Stamford Bridge, and Emery is confident home advantage will help his side on Wednesday.
“Our objective is to be in Europe, and we are in. Even not in good form, we are in,” he told Aston Villa’s website.
“And, of course, we are every day trying to recover our good form and our confidence, and tomorrow, Chelsea is our opponent, and, of course, it’s a tough match.
“In Villa Park, we are feeling, overall, really comfortable, playing, showing our form, consistency, except the last matches as we played.
“And, of course, we want to recover our good form at home. We were winning a lot of matches in a row, and we were feeling so, so strong.”
With Pedro Neto suspended and both Jamie Gittens and Estevao injured, there’s potentially a huge opportunity for Alejandro Garnacho.
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The Argentine hasn’t featured much under Liam Rosenior, but looked bright when he came off the bench against Arsenal.
Given he’s the only winger available on Wednesday, it’s likely Garnacho will start, and he’s got a huge opportunity to show what he can do, and stake a claim for more regular minutes.
Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:
George Russell is exuding a quiet sense of confidence as he prepares for the start of what could be a defining year for him in Formula 1.
The Mercedes driver is neither playing down the tag of pre-season championship favourite, nor leaning into it.
It feels more like it's something that changes nothing, has no relevance to the job in hand, which is being the best he can be.
Russell has been asked about it a number of times these past few weeks leading up to the Australian Grand Prix. When he is, he addresses it briefly, sometimes tangentially, and moves on.
A comment about Mercedes having "a lot of potential", for example, was quickly followed by concerns about his car's ability to get off the line, compared with the Ferrari's rocket-ship starts, and about some reliability issues that hit his team in the pre-season testing in Bahrain.
"It does not change my approach one single bit," Russell says. "I'm working so hard with the team, everybody here has been working flat out to really maximise this new set of regulations and I'm honestly just so excited by the challenge.
"Because it is a huge challenge adapting to these new cars, how the energy management works, the re-harvesting of the batteries, getting your head around the boost system, the overtake modes, the active aero.
"There's a lot of things we need to learn very quickly, but I feel I can take advantage from that and I feel confident with myself and my team."
The Briton, who turned 28 last month, has been among the most accepting of the new rules founded in engines with a 50-50 split between internal combustion and electrical power. His mindset seems both positive and fully focused on what's to come.
Russell is entering his eighth F1 season, and his fifth with Mercedes, and has proved himself without any question to be one of the elite in his sport.
Three seasons with Williams from 2019-21, with team-mates of questionable quality, made it difficult to judge his absolute potential, but some stand-out qualifying performances left little real doubt.
Putting a Williams - one of the slowest cars in the field at the time - second on the grid at Spa-Francorchamps in the wet in 2021 has to stand as one of the all-time great qualifying laps, for example.
When Russell joined Mercedes in 2022, his expectation was that he would become a regular winner and championship contender immediately - the team had just become constructors' champions for a record eighth consecutive time.
But it was Russell's bad luck to join Mercedes just as they made a hash of the new regulations that were introduced in 2022. In four seasons, they never really got on top of them to have a consistently competitive car. There were mere flashes of pace, never fully understood.
Russell had to be satisfied with proving himself against his team-mate. There was at least considerable satisfaction to be gained from that, given that he spent his first three seasons at Mercedes alongside Lewis Hamilton, the most successful F1 driver of all time.
Over their three seasons together, Russell came out on top in two. He has won five races in the past four years, and last season was the only driver to win apart from the three title contenders, McLaren's Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, and Red Bull's Max Verstappen.
With Verstappen universally acknowledged as the standard to whom all others have to aspire, Russell is one of a small elite group of drivers who stand out from the rest. He's also become a leader among the driver group, through his role as one of three directors of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association.
"It's always nice if your driver is the favourite for the bookmakers and I think he deserves it because he's one of the best," team principal Toto Wolff says.
"He's shown us where the performance of the car is and it's been overall more than great to us. George has been in Formula 1 a long time. He's a benchmark."
For seven years now, Russell has been a driver just waiting for the right car, and this year he might have it. This year's new rules have given Mercedes a chance for a reset, and the indication so far is that they have made a much better job of it than last time around.
The feeling in the paddock leaving testing last month is that Mercedes and Ferrari were the teams in the best shape, with Red Bull and McLaren perhaps a little behind in a relatively closely matched top four that is more than a second a lap clear of everyone else.
Russell is confident enough in Mercedes' potential to say that he "thinks we've delivered a very strong car" but he's wary of the performance of Red Bull's new engine.
Even so, his sights are set high. "I do want to go head-to-head with Max," he says. "and obviously Lando had a great season last year."
As things stand, before Melbourne gives the first glimpse of a real competitive order, Russell's obvious potential rivals this year are Verstappen, Norris, Piastri and the two Ferrari drivers, Charles Leclerc and Hamilton, if the seven-time champion can rediscover the mojo he appeared to have lost last year, and to some extent in 2024.
Of Russell's 19-year-old team-mate Kimi Antonelli, who is going into his second season after an up-and-down debut in 2025, Wolff says: "I'm absolutely certain it will be a good year for him, but I don't think we should expect him to be like George all the time."
Russell is good friends with world champion Norris and Leclerc. The three came up through the junior ranks together and all believe that the intense competition they gave each other, along with Williams' Alex Albon, was an important factor in them all reaching F1, as it forced each to keep raising their own standards to keep up with the others.
But it's perhaps a fight with Verstappen that whets the appetite most.
Russell and Verstappen rub along well enough on a surface level, quite happy to chat as and when they end up in news conferences together. But the tension between them is not in doubt.
They had an almighty falling out at the end of the 2024 season, when Verstappen said he'd "lost all respect" for Russell after the Qatar Grand Prix, and accused him of being instrumental in him getting a one-place grid penalty for that race.
Russell responded by saying Verstappen "cannot deal with adversity" and that "people have been bullied by Max for years".
Equally, would Verstappen have responded as he did, if it had been another driver involved in the series of incidents which led to the red-mist moment in which the Dutchman appeared to deliberately drive into Russell's car in Spain last year?
Verstappen has admitted his reaction that day was "not good". But there seems little doubt that a title fight between these two would not be as relatively harmonious as was last year's between Norris, Piastri and Verstappen.
For now, though, that's all speculation and Russell is focusing only on what he can control, while pondering the potential threat of Ferrari and Red Bull.
"The car's feeling good," he said on the final day of pre-season testing. "The new power-units are feeling fast and we're making improvements every single day.
"The thing that's going to trip you up is going to be that tallest hurdle," he says. "And that's what we're trying to get our heads around right now. We're stumbling on some at the moment."
When it was announced this past Friday that Oleksandr Usyk will defend his WBC heavyweight title against kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven on May 23 at Egypt's Pyramids of Giza, the news came as a shock to many. Although Verhoeven was heavily linked to a Feb. 14 bout with Anthony Joshua, the shift to fighting boxing's pound-for-pound No. 1 in Verhoeven's second pro boxing match was unexpected.
Verhoeven detailed to Uncrowned's "The Ariel Helwani Show" on Tuesday his journey from leaving GLORY Kickboxing this past November to landing a surprise fight with the unified heavyweight champ.
"I just wanted to do big stuff that hasn't been done before," Verhoeven said of his mindset after leaving GLORY. "So either make a crazy crossover to the UFC or a big crossover fight in boxing or whatever — I just wanted to see all options. So that's where the decision came from. I think we did it all within GLORY."
Verhoeven said he discussed a major boxing match for the first time when he was at one of the Oleksandr Usyk vs. Tyson Fury fights in Saudi Arabia in 2024 with world-renowned actor Jason Statham.
"My good friend Jason Statham was [at Usyk vs. Fury]," Verhoeven said. "So we were talking and he said, 'Oh yeah, man, [boxing] is the place to be. This is where you got to be.' He said, 'Let's do it.' So I think he slowly introduced me there.
"It was about a year later, the [Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford fight this past September] was coming up, and I saw Jason was there, so I texted [him], 'Yo bro, you at the fight? Have fun.' He said he was crazy excited and couldn't wait for it. So I said, 'Yo, we talked about it. We should do something [in boxing].' He said, 'Yep, I'm going to bring it up.'"
Statham proposed the idea of a major boxing match involving Verhoeven to Saudi Arabian fight financier Turki Alalshikh, who was receptive to the idea and said there would be further communication with Verhoeven's team.
"They said, 'When you come in, you're a champion, so you have to face somebody with a name. And you have to promise us you're not going to disappoint. You're not going to be out in one round,'" Verhoeven recalled. "I said, 'What do you mean? I've been boxing for the last 15 years on the highest level. I got this.'"
Verhoeven was asked by Alalshikh's team who he wanted to face in his first boxing match in 12 years — he knocked out Janos Finfera (then 0-5) in 2014 — and he informed them he'd be open to fighting anybody. With former unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua needing a comeback fight of sorts after more than a year out of the ring, surgery, and just a Jake Paul bout to his name since, Joshua was the name put forward.
Joshua vs. Verhoeven, however, did not take place due to the unfortunate events that occurred outside of the ring late last year.
"I finished [shooting a] movie at the beginning of December," Verhoeven said. "Went straight into camp and worked out through the whole of December. I had already planned a training camp in Spain for the whole month of January because the fight [with Joshua] was going to be February 14. Then the accident happened."
Joshua was involved in a fatal car crash in December that devastatingly took the lives of two of his closest friends, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. The crash left "AJ" with physical and emotional injuries that ruled out a fight for him in 2026's first quarter.
Verhoeven, however, continued to train and stay ready, in the hopes of eventually landing a big name.
"We got on the phone and heard the fight might happen, but 'AJ' needs some time to recover physically and mentally. Probably somewhere in March, we would hear more about it," Verhoeven said. "OK, no worries. Totally understand and totally respect the situation. I was still in Spain. We came to the gym and my boxing trainer, Peter Fury [the uncle of Tyson Fury], said, 'Hey, I was thinking — what about fighting Oleksandr Usyk?'"
Verhoeven was a fan of Fury's suggestion and proposed the idea to Alalshikh's team as an undisputed boxing champion vs. undisputed kickboxing champion type matchup.
"They said one thing: 'I love it. Let's do it.'"
Alalshikh's team managed to finalize the bout for May 23, and to add more intrigue to the contest, it landed at the Pyramids of Giza, which is the only remaining of the seven ancient wonders of the world.
Verhoeven will enter the fight with Usyk as a sizable underdog, but he cautioned fans against ruling out his chances, explaining that he has been training in boxing with Peter Fury for 15 years and was even a sparring partner for Tyson Fury when Tyson used his uncle as a coach more than a decade ago.
Verhoeven told Uncrowned that he also had discussions with the UFC and had received an offer to fight Derrick Lewis on the first Paramount+ card, UFC 324. Verhoeven ultimately decided against it because the financial elements of the offer to face Joshua — and then Usyk — were substantially better.
With a recent three-game losing streak now in their rearview mirror, the Los Angeles Lakers looked to make it three victories in a row when they hosted the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday. The Pelicans came into this matchup with a dismal 19-43 record, but they had won five of their last eight games, and they proved to be a pesky opponent on this night.
After trailing by six early, the Lakers built a decent lead in the second quarter thanks to 11 unanswered points, but a flurry of turnovers resulted in them losing that lead and trailing by two heading into the fourth quarter. They then asserted themselves with a 14-0 run in the final period, and that was enough for them to end up with a 110-101 win, as they continued to do a fantastic job of winning games that have been competitive in the final five minutes.
This wasn't exactly a pretty offensive outing for either team. Both squads had a lot of trouble hitting from long distance, and they combined for 41 turnovers. But Los Angeles capitalized on the Pelicans' 22 turnovers by logging 28 fast-break points, and it had seven more rebounds and seven more free throw attempts.
The team now has a 37-24 record and is still in sixth place in the Western Conference, and it is half a game behind the fifth-place Denver Nuggets. It will face the Nuggets in Colorado on Thursday.
Smart was very active defensively and aggressively went after the ball on that end of the floor, which resulted in him getting four steals and three blocks. Offensively, he scored 10 points on 3-of-9 from the field and 2-of-6 from 3-point range, and he hit a big trey with 1:34 left in the fourth quarter to put L.A. up by seven points.
When Smart took the ball away on defense, he helped create transition opportunities, which allowed him to register seven assists, and he also chipped in three rebounds and had no turnovers in 30 minutes.
Ayton blew a number of easy opportunities near the rim in this game early on when he either got his shots blocked or the ball knocked away from him. But he kept his head in the game and ended up scoring 13 points on 6-of-8 shooting from the field. In the last few games, the Lakers have been doing a better job of getting him the ball in scoring position early.
He also grabbed eight rebounds, blocked two shots and had one assist in 25 minutes.
Reaves, for much of this game, simply couldn't get his shots to fall. He missed each of his first eight shot attempts, and he didn't make his first field goal until the 4:11 mark of the third quarter. The guard also committed five turnovers, as the Pelicans cut off his driving angles to the basket and made him play in congested quarters.
He did, however, make four of his last six shot attempts, and he hit back-to-back treys during L.A.'s 14-0 fourth-quarter run. Reaves ended up with 15 points, eight rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks in 37 minutes.
He has now gone six straight games without reaching the 20-point mark after coming into this game averaging 24.1 points a game on the season.
James was energetic in this game, and he made a noticeable impact whenever he asserted himself. He single-handedly accounted for an 11-0 Lakers run early in the second quarter by scoring the Lakers' first nine points of the period and then throwing an alley-oop pass to Ayton for a dunk to help them establish a lead.
After scoring 16 points on 6-of-8 shooting in the first half, James was quiet afterward. But he finished with 21 points on 8-of-12 from the field, seven rebounds, seven assists and two blocks, although he did commit five turnovers.
Doncic turned in a solid game, even though he was a little less efficient than he usually is. He shot 10-of-22 overall and 3-of-10 from downtown to score 27 points, and he also helped out with 10 rebounds, seven assists and one block. But he also had seven turnovers. Turnovers have been a problem for him, although this was the first time in nearly a month he had at least four turnovers in one contest.
Hayes got 23 minutes of playing time in this game, and he responded with eight points on 3-of-4 shooting, six rebounds, two blocks and one assist.
Kennard continued to be a spark plug offensively off the bench with nine points on 3-of-5 overall shooting and 2-of-3 from beyond the arc, plus two rebounds and one assist in 21 minutes.
This was another quiet game for LaRavia, and he didn't get as much playing time as he usually does. He was on the court for 14 minutes, and he scored five points on 2-of-4 shooting, to go along with two rebounds, two assists and one steal.
Hachimura has been struggling to hit his shots since the All-Star break. He missed all four of his attempts on Tuesday, and he ended up with two points and two rebounds in 19 minutes.
This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Lakers player grades: L.A. pushes past Pelicans for third straight win
Gary Neville has been speaking about what Chelsea need to add to their team – and he’s got some pretty clear ideas.
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Gary Neville watched Chelsea’s game against Arsenal for Sky Sports on Sunday, and his big picture conclusions about Chelsea after the game were pretty interesting.
After another frustrating game for the Blues where they had moments of showing their potential, but were ultimately let down by their immaturity, Neville had a pretty clear idea of what can improve.
Gary Neville speaks on his podcast.
“They have to keep players fit but they need a top-class goalkeeper, a top-class centre-back with experience and a top-class centre-forward to accompany Joao Pedro and Liam Delap, not to replace them,” Neville said on his podcast post-game.
“[They should] have three strikers – Joao Pedro is very good, Delap who is young with potential – and then bring someone in. I know that’s difficult – these players are not there, but they need a centre-forward with experience.
“I’m not talking about a 33-year-old striker but someone who is 27 or 28 and the same at the back, a player who has real presence who can give them some solidity.
“I’m going to talk about the goalkeeper as well because Robert Sanchez invites problems, every time I watch him, my heart is in my mouth. He flaps at the Arsenal goal, so for me, Chelsea are three players short, they need players in those positions.
Neville had already pointed out that Chelsea were a pretty unique team who made him feel a mix of emotions unlike most teams he had seen before.
Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:
Japan has always been a stage for the world’s finest martial artists. On April 29, two of the country’s greatest warriors will carry the flag at ONE Samurai 1.
The inaugural event at Tokyo’s Ariake Arena marks the beginning of a new monthly series dedicated to showcasing Japan’s elite on the global stage.
Leading the charge is Takeru “Natural Born Krusher” Segawa, who steps into the main event knowing it will be his last. The three-division K-1 Champion faces Thai destroyer Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon in a rematch for the ONE Interim Flyweight Kickboxing World Title.
Elsewhere on the card, ONE Flyweight MMA World Champion Yuya “Little Piranha” Wakamatsu defends his throne against dangerous Uzbek Avazbek “Ninzya” Kholmirzaev.
Ahead of the biggest night of their careers, both Japanese warriors reflected on what this historic occasion means to them.
After nearly two decades of giving everything to the sport, Takeru Segawa is finally ready to walk away — but not without one final statement.
For a fighter who reshaped what was possible in kickboxing, choosing how to exit matters as much as the journey itself. And there was only one opponent worthy of a final act.
Leaving without facing Rodtang one more time was never an option. When the former ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion agreed to the rematch, Takeru’s farewell finally had its ending.
“Natural Born Krusher” said:
“I’m incredibly happy to be able to fight Rodtang again in my final professional bout. Ever since before I joined ONE, all I’ve ever thought about was defeating Rodtang.”
That obsession nearly consumed him whole. At ONE 172 last March, Rodtang ended their first encounter in just 80 seconds — a single left hook that stopped the fight before it could truly begin.
The shock of that night sent the Japanese legend spiraling toward retirement, questioning everything he had built.
But the Bushido spirit does not break. Takeru channeled that pain into an emphatic second-round TKO of Denis “The Bosnian Menace” Puric at ONE 173, earning him a US$50,000 performance bonus.
Now, the 34-year-old sees every scar as part of a larger design:
“Looking back, I believe that even my previous loss was all part of the story, leading to this retirement fight where I turn everything around and claim the belt.”
That perspective defines what makes Takeru extraordinary. Throughout a career built on discipline, sacrifice, and an unbreakable will, he has always carried Japan’s hopes on his shoulders without flinching.
For Takeru, this final fight is not just about a ONE World Title. It’s about leaving the sport with his legacy intact — proof that a true champion never stops fighting, no matter the odds.
The Team Vasileus standout vowed:
“I will prove once and for all that Takeru is at the center of the combat sports world. I’m going to win this.”
Few champions in ONE Championship have earned their throne the hard way quite like Yuya Wakamatsu.
Even after realizing his lifelong dream of capturing the ONE Flyweight MMA World Title, the doubters lingered. He had stumbled at the highest level before, and some wondered whether history might repeat itself.
Wakamatsu silenced every last one of them at ONE 173, denying ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion Joshua “The Passion” Pacio two-division glory with an emphatic second-round TKO.
Now a new challenge stands before him. Avazbek Kholmirzaev has torn through the flyweight division with a ferocity that demands respect, which Wakamatsu is not taking lightly.
The Kagoshima native said:
“He is an extremely aggressive fighter with a high level of skill across striking, takedowns, and submissions. In particular, his right leg kicks are very dangerous.”
Respect for the opponent, however, has not dulled his hunger. Behind closed doors, Wakamatsu has worked tirelessly to evolve beyond the explosive finisher the world already knows.
Every aspect of his game has been refined, every weakness addressed. He arrives at ONE Samurai 1 as a complete martial artist.
The TRIBE Tokyo MMA affiliate shared:
“I want to give everything I have and show the skills and mental strength I have built up over the years at ONE Samurai 1. I am confident that fans will see a new side of Yuya Wakamatsu — and honestly, I can’t wait to see what kind of fight I can put on myself.”
Yet for Wakamatsu, the stakes extend beyond the belt.
The roar of a hometown crowd has fueled him before. He knows that energy comes with responsibility — to the fans who never stopped believing during his long road to the top.
The flyweight MMA king concluded:
“Thank you so much for always supporting me. I will show you everything I’ve got in this fight — please look forward to it!”
Wales' Hockey World Cup qualifying hopes hang by a thread after a 5-0 defeat by France in Santiago, Chile.
Victor Charlet opened the scoring for the French in the second quarter with a penalty stroke to take a 1-0 half-time lead.
Benjamin Marque scored with a powerful reverse stick shot past Toby Reynolds-Cotterill from a tight angle to double the French lead in the third quarter.
Charlet added his second goal four minutes later from a penalty corner to take a commanding lead into the final quarter.
Charlet completed his hat-trick with another penalty corner and Marque grabbed his second to compound Wales' misery.
Wales have one point after two games in their pool after a 2-2 draw with hosts Chile on Sunday.
Wales play their final pool game against 20th ranked Scotland on Wednesday (21:00 GMT) knowing they will need to win to have any chance of making it through to the semi-finals of qualifying.
Danny Newcombe's side are seeking World Cup qualification for just the second time in their history, having made their tournament debut in 2023 in India.
Scotland and Chile drew 2-2 in their game in Pool A on Tuesday.
UCLA came out on fire to start this one, while Nebraska couldn’t hit water if it fell out of a boat in the middle of the ocean. The Bruins took an immediate double-digit lead, as they hit 6 of their first 8 field goal attempts. The Huskers would commit 3 turnovers in the opening 2 minutes. Nebraska would couple that with a 3:30 scoring drought, all the while UCLA would still be shooting over 70% from the floor in the opening 8 minutes.
Cale Jacobsen tried to spark Nebraska back into this, but no one would come along with him, as the Huskers built a replica of Pauley Pavilion from distance. Trent Perry and Xavier Booker would carry UCLA, as leading scorer Tyler Bilodeau would be held scoreless. It wouldn’t matter, as the Bruins continued to shoot well, combined with Nebraska being colder than an ex-mother-in-law’s hug. UCLA took an incredibly comfortable 37-24 lead into the break.
Nebraska shot 9-29 for 31% from the floor. They went a wretched 2-16 for 13% from deep and 4-6 for 67% from the free-throw line. The Huskers collected 18 rebounds, 6 of which were offensive. Nebraska had 7 turnovers to just 5 assists.
The Huskers were led by Cale Jacobsen, who had 6 points off the bench. 5 different Huskers had 3 rebounds each. Jamarques Lawrence had 2 assists.
UCLA shot 15-30 for 50% from the floor. They went 5-14 for 36% from deep and 2-4 for 50% from the free-throw line. The Bruins collected 20 rebounds, 4 of which were offensive. UCLA had 6 assists to 5 turnovers. They had 9 second chance points.
The Bruins were led by Trent Perry, who had 9 points. 4 different Bruins had 3 rebounds each. Perry and Donovan Dent had 2 assists each.
If Husker fans were looking for the team that plays incredibly well in the second half, they never found it. Every time Nebraska tried to climb back into this one, they shot themselves in the foot with a turnover or couldn’t get a stop. Case in point, Nebraska hit 7 straight field goals at one point but only reduced the deficit by 2. The closest Nebraska got was 10 points, but UCLA hit a basket, Jamarques Lawrence was called for a foul underneath, and UCLA then hit a 3, culminating a 5-point possession.
The lead went up to 15 and stayed there for quite a while. Nebraska had hope when it reached the bonus by the under 8 timeout, but they decided it was better to continue to brick everything instead of scoring points. UCLA ran out the clock as comfortably as Usain Bolt running the hundred-meter dash against me.
Nebraska shot 19-49 for 39% from the floor. They went 5-24 for 21% from deep and 9-18 for 50% from the free-throw line. The Huskers collected 34 rebounds, 11 of which were offensive. Nebraska had 13 turnovers to 12 assists, and only 7 second chance points.
The Huskers were led by Sam Hoiberg, who had 12 points. Rienk Mast and Cale Jacobsen had 11 each. Berke Buyuktuncel, Jamarques Lawrence and Pryce Sandfort each had 5 rebounds. Lawrence also had 5 assists.
UCLA shot 28-60 for 47% from the floor. They went 10-29 for 35% from deep and 6-10 for 60% from the free-throw line. The Bruins collected 36 rebounds, 11 of which were offensive. UCLA had 17 assists to 8 turnovers and had 17 second chance points.
The Bruins were led by Trent Perry, who had 20 points and 7 rebounds. Eric Dailey Jr. had 14 points and 8 rebounds. Donovan Dent led the way with 8 assists.
I’m a little at a loss for words on this one. I know Nebraska has played some uggos recently, but dear God, what team was I watching tonight? Look at the stats, no hit anything from anywhere. The assists to turnovers were negative. Nebraska on 3 SEPARATE OCCASIONS had got 3 OFFENSIVE REBOUNDS in a possession and DIDN’T SCORE!!!
UCLA hit its first shot 11 seconds into the game, and Nebraska never saw the light of day after that. 11 freaking seconds was all that Nebraska was in this contest. Some days you are the dog; others you are the hydrant. Tonight was a hydrant night. Better to have crapped the bed now than do it two weeks from now in the NCAA Tournament. Nebraska finishes its regular season on Sunday against Iowa. Tip-off from Pinnacle Bank Arena is at 4:00 pm central and can be seen on Fox.
One more for good measure…
On the second episode of UFC 326 Embedded, Charles Oliveira hits pads surrounded by his family; BMF Max Holloway sees how “The Ninth Island” compares to home cooking; Caio Borralho trains with support from The Fighting Nerds; Reinier de Ridder embarks on a quest to find hot springs; Rob Font prepares for his fight at Tristar Gym; Gregory Rodrigues spends quality time with his wife and daughter; Charles Oliveira activates “Super Saiyan mode” ahead of his main event fight.
UFC 326: Holloway vs. Oliveira 2 takes place on Saturday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The event is headlined by a lightweight bout for the symbolic BMF title between former champion Charles Oliveira and former featherweight titleholder Max Holloway.
Dennis Schroder, having played for 11 teams in the NBA since his debut in 2013, has a lot of former teammates, and with most of them he has been on good terms. On Tuesday night, however, he had an uncomfortable, albeit lighthearted encounter with Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons, where he spent the second half of the 2024-25 season.
Schroder began the current campaign with the Sacramento Kings but was on the move once again in February and now finds himself chasing a top playoff spot with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He scored 15 points in a 113-108 win, but during the game his exchange with Cunningham, which was caught by the mic, showed how much the Pistons star had changed since Schroder was his teammate.
The Pistons, after scrambling near the bottom of the standings two seasons ago, are now the No. 1 team in the Eastern Conference. Cunningham has admittedly been the biggest reason behind this turnaround, with his 25 ppg and incredible consistency helping Detroit dream big. Unfortunately, his rising stock has also made him a busier man who has become harder to reach.
Cunningham, mid game against the Cavs, tried to talk to Schroder, but the German baller replied, “Don’t talk to me now.”
“I tried to call you, you got MVP chants, now you not answering the phone no more,” the Cavs guard added, with a laugh, which suggested that it was banter.
At the same time, this could be true. Cunningham isn’t just a prospect anymore. The former #1 Draft pick is the protagonist of a team chasing a Championship, and he has, indeed, received NBA MVP shouts from legends like Shaquille O’Neal.
The Pistons last won the NBA title in 2004, when they beat the Lakers 4–1 in the Finals. Since then, they have been on a steady decline. Between 2008 and 2024, they reached the playoffs only three times and exited in the first round in each of those seasons after being swept. It was only Cunningham’s rise in 2025 that took them back to the playoffs, where they pushed the New York Knicks to six games before bowing out.
It was a defining moment for Cunningham and the Pistons, setting the stage for a better 2025–26 season, which they are currently having.
The Cavs, meanwhile, are on their tail. They are No. 4 in the East and could very well meet Detroit in the postseason. Schroder vs. Cunningham? It might be a battle Schroder takes personally if Cunningham ignoring his calls truly affected him.
The post Dennis Schroder Accuses Cade Cunningham of Ignoring Him After Getting MVP Chants appeared first on The SportsRush.
Jakob Poeltl describes Knicks' Jalen Brunson's indomitable will in the clutch originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New York Knicks pulled out their 40th win of the 2025-26 regular season on Tuesday night, defeating the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena in a 111-95 victory.
It was a victory defined by streaks, including a third straight win holding their opponents under 100 points, their 10th straight win over the Raptors, and a third straight season with at least 40-plus wins.
The real star of the night, as per usual, was star point guard Jalen Brunson. The All-Star led the Knicks in scoring with 26 points, shooting 10 of 22 from the field, including seven points and an assist in the final five minutes. Last year's Clutch Player of the Year is, in fact, still clutch.
In his postgame interview, Raptors center Jakob Poeltl described how difficult it can be to defend Brunson, especially in those crunchtime situations.
"I mean, obviously it's difficult...he's good in these kind of situations. He knows how to dictate the game very well. We try to be really aggressive with him, try to take him out of his comfort zone," Poeltl told reporters.
"They just made some good plays at the end there. Knocked down some shots, some wild plays...it got out of hand in the last couple of minutes."
The Knicks improved to 40-22 on the season following the win in Toronto as they continue their push for the playoffs.
Next up, the second night of a back-to-back against the reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night.
It's sure to be a battle between two of the top teams in their respective conferences.
Manchester United Women had numerous players in international action yesterday evening.
The United starlet discussed how she wanted to use her club form to launch her international career, and she got off to the perfect start.
Park scored two goals in England’s 6-1 demolition of Ukraine in World Cup qualifying.
In the 78th minute, the ball was whipped across goal and Park showed great instinct to turn in the pass.
She grabbed her second in the 89th minute when she tucked inside and launched a trademark dipping long-range effort, giving the Ukrainian keeper no chance.
Maya Le Tissier also played the match at right back for the Lionesses, despite impressing from centre back for her club.
The French striker was also the heroine for her national team as they came from behind to beat the Republic of Ireland 2-1.
She scored a wonderful goal on 71 minutes when she waltzed through the Irish defence and slotted home a calm finish to bring her side level.
The United attacker completed the comeback on 78 minutes, when the ball finally landed to Malard in the box and she spun and struck a fine effort into the bottom corner to bring her side level.
The Norwegian has had a strong season for United, and she was the hero for her national team as she scored the only goal of Norway’s 1-0 win over Austria.
The United midfielder swept in an effort from the middle of the box in the 81st minute to give her side the lead.
The German star scored her nation’s fifth as they comfortably dispatched Slovenia 5-0.
She fired in her effort with her left foot from inside the area to put the cherry on top of the cake after 71 minutes of play.
The United veteran was also involved for the Netherlands, starting at centre back.
She captained her side and played the entire 90 minutes of their 2-2 draw with Poland.
Finally, Julia Zigiotti and Hanna Lundkvist both started for Sweden in their impressive 1-0 win away to Italy.
Fridolina Rolfo also came on as a substitute in the game in her return to full fitness.
Featured image Ben Roberts Photo via Getty Images
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Fulham return to Craven Cottage on Wednesday evening, looking to maintain their European charge against a West Ham United side desperate to escape the relegation zone.
The Cottagers enter this midweek London derby in exceptional form, having won three consecutive matches across all competitions, including a superb 2–1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend. That result, inspired by first-half goals from Harry Wilson and Alex Iwobi, propelled Fulham into ninth place and completed their first top-flight double over Spurs in 22 years. Silva’s side now has the opportunity to record just their second-ever Premier League season sweep of West Ham, having secured a 1–0 victory at the London Stadium in late December.
West Ham United, meanwhile, travel across the capital, currently sitting in 18th place, two points adrift of safety after a heavy 5–2 defeat at Liverpool on Saturday. Despite the scoreline, Nuno Espírito Santo’s men showed resilience in the second half with goals from Tomáš Souček and Valentín Castellanos. The Hammers know that a victory tonight could lift them out of the drop zone, depending on Nottingham Forest’s result at Manchester City. However, the visitors must overcome a wretched record in city derbies this season, having lost seven of their eight Premier League London matches.
Marco Silva is sweating over the fitness of star winger Harry Wilson, who was withdrawn on Sunday with a twisted ankle. Wilson has been fundamental this season, recording 15 goal involvements (9 goals, 6 assists). Brazilian winger Kevin is definitely out as he recovers from foot surgery. In better news, defender Joachim Andersen is back after missing the Spurs win through illness, and midfielder Saša Lukić could return following a hamstring injury.
Nuno Espírito Santo has a nearly full squad at his disposal, reporting no fresh injury concerns after the trip to Anfield. Forward Pablo Felipe remains sidelined with a calf injury, though he has begun an individual training program. Midfielder Freddie Potts serves the final game of his three-match suspension. Mateus Fernandes, Soungoutou Magassa, and Tomáš Souček are expected to anchor the engine room in his absence.
The West Londoners have hit their stride in 2026, winning five of their last seven home matches across all competitions. Most recently, they dispatched Spurs 2–1 and Sunderland 3–1, showing clinical efficiency in early kick-offs. Notably, Fulham have won seven of their last 10 home evening Premier League games starting at 7pm or later. While they showed some late vulnerability against Tottenham by dropping deep too early, their defensive organisation has generally improved under Silva.
The Hammers have shown signs of improvement recently, picking up 11 points from their last seven Premier League outings—seven more than they managed in the previous 10. Prior to the Liverpool defeat, they were on a three-game unbeaten run in the league (W1, D2), including draws against Manchester United and Bournemouth. Notably, West Ham have been defensively frail on the road, having already conceded 54 league goals this term; only Burnley (56) have shipped more.
Fulham Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, Andersen, Bassey, Sessegnon; Berge, Iwobi; Chukwueze, Smith Rowe, Bobb; Jimenez
West Ham United Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Hermansen; Wan-Bissaka, Mavropanos, Disasi, Diouf; Bowen, Magassa, Soucek, Summerville; Fernandes; Castellanos
The match will be televised live in the UK on TNT Sports. Coverage typically begins at 19:00 GMT.
Read more- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’
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Newcastle United host Manchester United at St James’ Park tonight, aiming to secure a fourth consecutive home league win over the Red Devils and snap a dismal domestic run.
The Magpies have moved into a critical period of their campaign, currently sitting in 13th place after losing five of their last six Premier League games. Manager Eddie Howe oversaw a frustrating 3–2 home loss to Everton on Saturday and is now desperate to avoid a fourth consecutive home league defeat—a streak last seen at the club in 2018. Notably, 36% of Newcastle’s all-time Premier League wins against Manchester United have come under Howe’s tenure.
Eddie Howe manages a squad still missing several influential leaders due to a persistent injury crisis. Notably, Bruno Guimarães, Tino Livramento, and Fabian Schär are not expected to be available tonight, though they are nearing returns. Consequently, Sven Botman is poised for a recall to the centre of defence ahead of Dan Burn. Jacob Ramsey is expected to feature after overcoming an illness that forced him off at the weekend. Notably, Ramsey has either scored or assisted in each of his last three league appearances, despite failing to register a goal involvement in his first 15 games for the club.
Nick Pope will start in goal behind a defensive line likely featuring Kieran Trippier and Lewis Hall. In midfield, Sandro Tonali and Joelinton are expected to anchor the side alongside Joe Willock. Anthony Gordon is likely to lead the line as a makeshift number nine if Nick Woltemade fails a late fitness test. Notably, Gordon has struggled for league efficiency this term, converting just 8% of his 38 shots into goals, a stark contrast to his 29% conversion rate in cup competitions.
Newcastle United Predicted XI (4-3-3): Pope; Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Hall; Willock, Tonali, Joelinton; Barnes, Woltemade, Gordon
The Premier League fixture takes place at St James’ Park on Wednesday, 4 March 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:15 GMT.
In the UK, the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1. Fans can also stream the action via the discovery+ app.
Read more- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’
See Also- Guardiola agrees with Slot on growing Premier League problem
Nottingham Forest travel to the Etihad Stadium tonight, aiming to snap a three-game losing streak and secure their first league points under Vítor Pereira.
The Tricky Trees have moved into a precarious position, sitting just two points clear of the relegation zone following a 2–1 loss at Brighton. Manager Vítor Pereira oversaw a resilient but ultimately fruitless performance on the South Coast and now faces a City side that has proved impenetrable for Forest in recent years. Notably, Forest have lost all three of their away Premier League games at the Etihad without scoring a single goal, conceding 11 times in the process.
Vítor Pereira manages a squad heavily impacted by a wave of long-term knee injuries to senior players. Notably, top scorer Chris Wood remains out until April, while Willy Boly and Nicolò Savona are also sidelined. Consequently, Igor Jesus will continue to lead the line. In goal, Matz Sels has recovered from a groin issue and is expected to start, especially with Stefan Ortega unavailable to face his former club. Notably, Morgan Gibbs-White remains the key attacking threat; he has scored seven goals this season, matching his career-best in a single Premier League campaign.
Matz Sels will start in goal behind a defensive line led by Nikola Milenković and Murillo. In midfield, the partnership of Ibrahim Sangaré and Elliot Anderson will be tasked with disrupting City’s rhythm. Notably, Anderson leads the league for duels won and possession won this season. Morgan Gibbs-White will operate in the number ten role, flanked by Callum Hudson-Odoi and Dan Ndoye. Notably, Forest have won in only one of their eight away top-flight visits to City since 1989 and must find a way to stop a City team that has won 24 of their last 26 Wednesday home matches.
Nottingham Forest Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Sels; Aina, Milenkovic, Murillo, Williams; Sangare, Anderson; Ndoye, Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi; Jesus
The Premier League fixture takes place at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday, 4 March 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:30 GMT.
UK fans can watch the match live on TNT Sports 4. Highlights will be available on Match of the Day later tonight.
Read more- Latest Arsenal injury news on Rice, Raya, Havertz and Odegaard
See Also- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’
Manchester City return to the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night, aiming to maintain their pursuit of Premier League leaders Arsenal against a Nottingham Forest side battling to stay above the drop zone.
The Citizens arrive in ruthless form, having won their last six matches across all competitions. A clinical 1–0 victory over Leeds United on Saturday ensured City remained within touching distance of the summit, trailing the Gunners by five points with a crucial game in hand. While City have transformed the Etihad into a fortress—winning 16 of their last 19 home league games—they face a Forest side that has historically struggled to contain them in Manchester. Notably, Forest have lost all three of their away Premier League games at the Etihad since returning to the top flight by a staggering aggregate score of 11–0.
Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, travel north under immense pressure as they sit just two points above the relegation zone. Life under new head coach Vítor Pereira has yet to yield a Premier League victory, with Sunday’s 2–1 loss at Brighton marking a third consecutive defeat in all competitions. Despite showing flashes of personality in their recent European exploits, the Tricky Trees must find a way to solve a defensive crisis that has left them without several key senior figures. Facing a City side that has won 24 of their last 26 Premier League home games played on a Wednesday, Forest face a monumental task to avoid being dragged into the bottom three.
Pep Guardiola is sweating over the fitness of star striker Erling Haaland, who missed the Leeds match with a knock. While the manager noted Haaland feels “much better,” a late decision will be made on Tuesday. Midfielder Nico O’Reilly is also a doubt after picking up an ankle injury at Elland Road. The hosts are definitely without Croatian duo Josko Gvardiol and Mateo Kovacic, both of whom remain long-term absentees. However, Max Alleyne has returned to first-team training and is expected to be in the squad.
Vítor Pereira manages a squad significantly depleted by a wave of knee injuries. Chris Wood remains sidelined until at least April, while Willy Boly, John Victor, and Nicolò Savona are also unavailable. In goal, Matz Sels has made a timely recovery from a groin issue, which is vital as former City keeper Stefan Ortega is ruled out with a calf injury. Full-back Neco Williams will be assessed after appearing jaded in the defeat to Brighton.
The Sky Blues have been the picture of consistency lately, winning four consecutive Premier League matches and six in a row in all competitions. Most recently, they ground out a 1–0 win at Leeds following a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Newcastle. Notably, 39% of City’s wins this season have come by a single goal, their highest such proportion in over a decade. Guardiola’s side has also been historically dominant on Wednesdays, averaging 2.85 points per game at home on that specific day.
Forest arrive in Manchester searching for their first league win under Vítor Pereira. Their recent form includes a 2–1 defeat at Brighton on Sunday and a narrow 1–0 home loss to Liverpool last week. Notably, Pereira remains winless in the Premier League this season across his time with Wolves and Forest, a run spanning 12 matches. The Tricky Trees have also struggled defensively at the Etihad, becoming one of only three sides in competition history to fail to score while shipping 10+ goals at a single stadium.
Manchester City Predicted XI (4-1-4-1): Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Guehi, Ait-Nouri; Gonzalez; Cherki, Reijnders, Foden, Semenyo; Marmoush
Nottingham Forest Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Sels; Aina, Milenkovic, Murillo, Williams; Sangare, Anderson; Ndoye, Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi; Jesus
The match will be televised live in the UK on TNT Sports 4. Coverage begins at 19:00 GMT ahead of the 19:30 kick-off.
Read more- Latest Arsenal injury news on Rice, Raya, Havertz and Odegaard
See Also- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’
St James’ Park serves as the setting for a high-stakes Premier League clash on Wednesday night as a revitalised Manchester United look to cement its top-four credentials against a Newcastle side desperate to end a worrying slide.
The Red Devils arrive on Tyneside in clinical form under interim manager Michael Carrick, having amassed 19 points from a possible 21 since mid-January. A gritty 2–1 comeback victory over Crystal Palace on Sunday propelled United into third place, level on points with Aston Villa and three clear of Liverpool. Carrick has overseen a remarkable defensive turnaround, with the team losing just one of their last 11 away league games (W5 D5). However, the Theatre of Dreams has proved more fruitful than St James’ Park lately; United have failed to win on their last three visits to Newcastle and are searching for their first victory there since 2020.
Newcastle United, meanwhile, find themselves in a precarious position, currently floundering in 13th place after losing five of their last six league matches. Eddie Howe’s side has been hampered by the dual demands of a Champions League campaign and a crippling injury list, most recently suffering a damaging 3–2 home defeat to Everton. The Magpies have lost three consecutive Premier League home games, conceding eight goals in the process. With a brutal run of fixtures including Manchester City, Barcelona, and Chelsea on the horizon, Newcastle must capitalise on their recent historical dominance over United at home to ignite their European hopes.
Eddie Howe continues to manage a heavily depleted squad. Influential figures Bruno Guimarães, Tino Livramento, and Fabian Schär are all nearing returns but are not expected to be fit for Wednesday. Lewis Miley remains sidelined with a niggling thigh injury, while Emil Krafth is out for the season. In more positive news, Jacob Ramsey is expected to be available after recovering from illness, though Nick Woltemade remains a major doubt. Sven Botman is pushing for a recall to the starting defence.
Michael Carrick faces fresh defensive concerns after Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire were forced off against Crystal Palace due to illness and knocks. While Carrick is hopeful they will recover, Noussair Mazraoui and Ayden Heaven are on standby. Lisandro Martínez and Mason Mount are back in training but might find this game coming too soon for a start. Matthijs de Ligt (back) and Patrick Dorgu (hamstring) remain definite absentees.
The Magpies have struggled for defensive consistency at home, having lost their last three Premier League matches at St James’ Park. Notably, Newcastle have only lost two of their last 20 home evening kick-offs (7pm or later) in the division. While they have won four of their last six matches in all competitions, two of those victories came in Europe against Qarabag FK. Anthony Gordon will look to improve his clinical edge, having converted just 8% of his shots in the league this season compared to 29% in other competitions.
Under Carrick, United have become the Premier League’s “comeback kings” in 2026, recovering nine points from losing positions—more than any other side. Notably, the Red Devils have lost only one of their last eight league matches after falling behind. Bruno Fernandes has been the creative heartbeat of the side, recording 13 assists this season, the most by a United player in a single campaign since 2012. Striker Benjamin Šeško arrives in predatory form, averaging a goal every 49.7 minutes in recent weeks.
Newcastle United Predicted XI (4-3-3): Pope; Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Hall; Willock, Tonali, Joelinton; Barnes, Woltemade, Gordon
Manchester United Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Dalot, Yoro, Maguire, Mazraoui; Casemiro, Mainoo; Mbeumo, Fernandes, Cunha; Sesko
The match will be televised live in the UK on TNT Sports 1. Coverage begins at 19:00 GMT.
Read more- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’
See Also- Latest Arsenal injury news on Rice, Raya, Havertz and Odegaard
Arsenal head to the South Coast on Wednesday night, aiming to maintain their grip on the Premier League title race against a Brighton & Hove Albion side finding form at a critical moment.
The Gunners enter this midweek fixture in commanding form, unbeaten in their last nine matches and fresh from back-to-back London derby victories over Tottenham and Chelsea. While Arsenal currently hold a five-point lead over Manchester City, Pep Guardiola’s side have a game in hand, leaving the Gunners with little room for error. Arsenal’s clinical nature in away games has improved significantly recently; they averaged just 1.2 goals per game on the road between August and December, but that figure has surged to 2.3 per match since the turn of the year.
Brighton & Hove Albion, meanwhile, appear to have moved past a difficult winter spell that saw them go winless in six matches between January and February. Fabian Hürzeler’s side has secured consecutive victories over Brentford and Nottingham Forest, moving them to 11th in the table and reigniting their European aspirations. The Seagulls have a historic knack for frustrating the league leaders, having won two of their last four Premier League home games against the team starting the day at the top of the table.
The Seagulls will assess Mats Wieffer, who was forced off late in the win over Forest, with Joel Veltman ready to deputise. Yasin Ayari is nearing a return from a shoulder problem and faces a late test. However, Adam Webster and Stefanos Tzimas are both ruled out for the season with knee injuries. Veteran James Milner remains available despite the quick turnaround.
Mikel Arteta is hopeful that Declan Rice will be available after a knock forced him off against Chelsea, noting the midfielder felt “much better” on Monday. Kai Havertz and Martin Ødegaard are both pushing to be involved, though their conditions will be assessed late. David Raya is fit to start, but Ben White, Mikel Merino, and Max Dowman are expected to remain sidelined.
Brighton have secured more wins in their last two games than they had in their previous 13 combined (W1 D6 L6). Notably, the Seagulls have suffered just two home defeats all season, though they have won only two of their last eight at the Amex. Forward Danny Welbeck has already matched his career-best of 10 Premier League goals this term; one more would see him join an elite group of players scoring 10+ goals in a season for the first time while aged 35 or older.
The Gunners are unbeaten in their last 19 evening Premier League matches (7pm or later), a run stretching back to December 2023. Notably, set-pieces remain Arsenal’s most potent weapon; they have equalled the Premier League record for goals from corners in a single season (16). Furthermore, of the 20 times Arsenal have opened the scoring this season, 13 of those goals have come from a set-piece or penalty—the joint-most in the competition’s history.
Brighton Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Verbruggen; Veltman, Dunk, Van Hecke, Kadioglu; Gross, Baleba; Gomez, Hinshelwood, Mitoma; Welbeck
Arsenal Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Raya; Mosquera, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Havertz, Zubimendi, Lewis-Skelly; Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli
The match will be televised live in the UK on TNT Sports 2. Coverage begins at 19:00 GMT ahead of the 19:30 kick-off.
Read more- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’
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Arsenal travel to the Amex Stadium tonight aiming to secure a third consecutive victory and break the Premier League record for goals scored from corners.
The Gunners have moved into a clinical phase of their title charge, maintaining a five-point lead following a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Chelsea. Manager Mikel Arteta oversaw a performance that equalled the record for most corner goals in a season (16), and his side now looks to take the outright record against a Brighton side that has kept only one clean sheet in their last 10 games. Notably, Arsenal are unbeaten in their last five visits to the Amex since the 2020-21 campaign.
Mikel Arteta manages a squad balancing recent knocks with the return of key senior figures. Notably, Declan Rice is a doubt after a knock in the Chelsea match, but he is expected to train and push for a start. Consequently, if Rice or Martin Ødegaard are not fit, Hale End graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly could earn a start in midfield. Viktor Gyökeres arrives in excellent form, having been involved in six goals in his last seven away games (5 goals, 1 assist). Notably, Arsenal have become far more prolific on the road in 2026, averaging 2.3 goals per game compared to 1.2 earlier in the season.
David Raya will start in goal behind a defensive unit led by William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães. In midfield, Martin Zubimendi is expected to continue his partnership with Rice if fit. Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli will provide the width, with Gyökeres poised to lead the attack. Notably, 65% of the time Arsenal have opened the scoring this season, the breakthrough has come via a set-piece or penalty.
Arsenal Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Raya; Mosquera, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Havertz, Zubimendi, Lewis-Skelly; Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli
The Premier League fixture takes place at the American Express Stadium on Wednesday, 4 March 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:30 GMT.
In the UK, the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 2. Fans can also stream the action via the discovery+ app.
Read more- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’
See Also- Guardiola agrees with Slot on growing Premier League problem
Chelsea travel to Villa Park tonight aiming to secure their first away victory at the ground since 2022 and close the gap on the Champions League places.
The Blues have moved into a period of frustration under manager Liam Rosenior, currently sitting sixth in the table and winless in their last three matches. Manager Rosenior oversaw a narrow 2–1 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday, a result that highlighted his side’s continued tactical progression but also their vulnerability at set-pieces. Notably, Chelsea have lost eight of their last 10 midweek away games in the Premier League, including both of their trips on the road this year.
Liam Rosenior manages a squad missing a key winger due to suspension but bolstered by a significant defensive return. Notably, Wesley Fofana is available for selection after serving his ban, while Cole Palmer has been cleared to play despite a minor injury scare against Arsenal. Consequently, Tosin Adarabioyo may make way in central defence. However, Pedro Neto is suspended following his red card, and Marc Cucurella remains a major doubt. Notably, João Pedro has been directly involved in five goals in his five career appearances against Aston Villa, his favourite opponent in the competition.
Robert Sánchez will start in goal behind a defensive line led by captain Reece James and the returning Fofana. In midfield, Moisés Caicedo and Andrey Santos are expected to anchor the side, allowing Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernández to support João Pedro in attack. Notably, Chelsea are winless in their last two visits to Villa Park and haven’t lost consecutive away league games at the ground since the early 2000s. The visitors have dropped 19 points from winning positions this term, a habit they must break to secure a vital result tonight.
Chelsea Predicted XI (4-3-3): Sanchez; James, Chalobah, Fofana, Hato; Caicedo, Santos; Palmer, Fernandez, Garnacho; Pedro
The Premier League fixture takes place at Villa Park on Wednesday, 4 March 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:30 GMT.
UK fans can watch the match live on TNT Sports 3. Highlights will be available on the TNT Sports app shortly after the final whistle.
Read more- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’
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Fulham host West Ham United at Craven Cottage tonight, aiming to secure their fourth consecutive victory in all competitions and close the gap on the European places.
The Cottagers have moved into ninth place in the table after a revitalising run under Marco Silva. Manager Silva oversaw a clinical 2–1 victory over Tottenham on Sunday, and his side now looks to complete a rare top-flight double over the Hammers. Notably, Fulham have won seven of their last 10 home evening Premier League games, making Craven Cottage a formidable venue under the lights.
Marco Silva manages a squad balancing significant momentum with fresh injury concerns in attacking areas. Notably, Harry Wilson is a major doubt after twisting his ankle against Spurs; if he fails a late test, Samuel Chukwueze is poised to start on the right flank. Consequently, Oscar Bobb and Emile Smith Rowe will likely continue their creative partnership behind Raúl Jiménez. Notably, Wilson has been Fulham’s most productive player this season with 15 Premier League goal involvements, the most by any player at the club since Dimitar Berbatov in 2012-13.
Bernd Leno will start in goal behind a defensive line bolstered by the return of Joachim Andersen, who missed the weekend win through illness. In midfield, Sander Berge and Alex Iwobi will anchor the side, with Saša Lukić also pushing for a return to the matchday squad following a hamstring injury. Notably, Fulham have already beaten West Ham 1–0 this season and are looking for the first league sweep of their London rivals since the 2023-24 campaign.
Fulham Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, Andersen, Bassey, Sessegnon; Berge, Iwobi; Chukwueze, Smith Rowe, Bobb; Jimenez
The Premier League fixture takes place at Craven Cottage on Wednesday, 4 March 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:30 GMT.
In the UK, the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports. Fans can also stream the action via the discovery+ app.
Read more- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’
See Also- Guardiola agrees with Slot on growing Premier League problem
Manchester United travel to St James’ Park tonight aiming to secure a Premier League double over Newcastle and extend their unbeaten away run to six matches.
The Red Devils have moved into third place in the table after a revitalising spell under manager Michael Carrick, who has won five of his first six games in charge. Manager Carrick oversaw a clinical 2–1 victory over Crystal Palace on Sunday, and his side now looks to consolidate their top-four position. Notably, Manchester United have only lost one of their last 11 away Premier League games, a significant improvement from their previous 11 on the road.
Michael Carrick manages a squad coping with fresh defensive doubts after two veteran stars felt unwell during the weekend’s win. Notably, Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire are being monitored; if they are unable to start, Noussair Mazraoui and Ayden Heaven are ready to step in. Consequently, the manager may hand a first inclusion in the league XI to striker Benjamin Šeško after his match-winning contribution off the bench. Notably, Šeško has scored seven goals in eight matches since the departure of Ruben Amorim, averaging a goal every 49.7 minutes during that run.
Arne Lammens will start in goal behind a defensive line led by Leny Yoro and potentially Harry Maguire. In midfield, Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo are expected to continue their partnership, providing the platform for Bruno Fernandes to operate in the creative role. Notably, Fernandes has already provided 13 league assists this term, matching the most by a United player in a single campaign since 2011-12. Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha will provide the threat from wide areas as United seek to become the first side since 1931 to win four consecutive league matches at St James’ Park.
Manchester United Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Dalot, Yoro, Maguire, Mazraoui; Casemiro, Mainoo; Mbeumo, Fernandes, Cunha; Sesko
The Premier League fixture takes place at St James’ Park on Wednesday, 4 March 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:15 GMT.
UK fans can watch the match live on TNT Sports 1. Highlights will be available on Match of the Day later tonight.
Read more- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’
See Also- Guardiola agrees with Slot on growing Premier League problem
Toluca bounce back from trailing twice in the match to get a 3-2 victory over Pumas that meant they are the only undefeated team in the Clausura 2026. Pumas’ undefeated recorded ended in large part because of a terrible goal miss that also dropped them off to 5th place. Pumas will now travel north to face off against Necaxa on Friday while Toluca return home where they will host FC Juarez.
The 1st half started with Pumas coming out with the same starting 11 as they had in their previous two matches. Toluca had the return of Luan to the starting 11. Off a corner kick, the cross from Pavel Perez came dangerously close and forced a save from Pumas’ goalkeeper, Keylor Navas. A great cross into the area was volleyed by Paulinho and it would hit the post although it would have been offside had it gone in. A cross into the area was deflected into the path of Alan Medina but his weak shot was easily saved by Toluca’s goalkeeper, Hugo Gonzalez. After getting a thru pass in the area, Jorge Diaz Price got off a great right footed shot that forced a great save from Navas. Off a corner kick, Luan got off a header that went wide. After a good combination play, Jordan Carrillo got into the area where he got brought down by Luan and the ref gave a Penalty Kick to Pumas. Robert Morales stepped up to take the PK and got off a strong right footed shot that went past Gonzalez and into the net to score and give Pumas the 1-0 lead against the run of play. From outside the area, Jesus Ricardo Angulo got off a left footed shot that was saved by Navas. After a great run, Juninho started a 2 vs o counter attack and the got off a pass that took out Gonzalez and left Morales with a wide open net shot and he sent his shot well wide in an historic bad miss. It was a sure goal for Morales and the miss was so bad, it will probably go thru the world wide media, it was that bad. Then a minute later, Jesus Ricardo Angulo made a good play and got off an incredible left footed shot that went past Navas to score and tie the match at 1-1. The game went from an almost sure 2-0 lead for Pumas to a 1-1 tie in a huge hit to Pumas. The halftime whistle blew with the tied score.
The 2nd half started with neither team making a substitution. A pass into the area would fail to be controlled by Paulinho from close range and Navas would beat him to it. Paulinho would get off a right footed shot from outside the area that went wide. Pumas subbed out Jordan Carrillo for Uriel Antuna. From outside the area, Paulinho was given time and space to get off a right footed shot but it was easily saved by Navas. A counter from Pumas ended with Antuna getting off a right footed shot that forced a good save from Gonzalez. From outside the area, Alvaro Angulo got off a left footed shot that forced another save from Gonzalez. Off a corner kick, the ball would not be cleared well by Toluca and the ball would end up getting to Alvaro Angulo, who in the area got off a left footed shot past Gonzalez to score and give Pumas the 2-1 lead. Toluca subbed out Luan for Helinho. After getting the ball in the area, Federico Pereira got off a right footed shot that forced a great save from Navas. The ball was left there for Pereira, who got off a bicycle kick volley that would reach Paulinho, who from close range would send his shot wide. Off a counter, Morales got off a right footed shot in the area that forced a save from Gonzalez, who left the ball there but Juninho would crash the close range shot into him. From way off the half line, a huge shot from Morales would go just wide. Off a corner kick, Toluca would surprise by getting off a pass to a wide open Diego Barbosa, who got off a wonderful right footed shot from outside the area that went past Navas and into the net to score and tie the match at 2-2. It was the second consecutive match where Pumas got scored on a play like that, the only goal Tijuana scored in their previous game came off the same play. Pumas would sub out Alan Medina for Guillermo Martinez. A cross into the area would fall to Helinho, whose left footed shot was deflected wide by Pumas’ defense. Toluca subbed out Jorge Diaz Price for Nicolas Castro. Off the ensuing corner kick, the ball would eventually fall to Perez, whose right footed shot was brilliantly saved by Navas. Jesus Gallardo would get off a good shot that was headed from close range by Paulinho and although Pumas claimed an offside, the goal stood and Toluca had taken the 3-2 lead. Toluca subbed out Jesus Ricardo Angulo for Antonio Briseño. A right footed shot from Helinho was deflected wide. Pumas subbed out Angel Azuaje and Pedro Vite for Ruben Duarte and Cesar Garza. A bad clearance allowed Antuna to get off a shot in the area but his left footed shot went wide in a bad miss. In would be the last play and Toluca got the 3-2 victory that meant they were the only team without a loss in the season.
Pumas’ undefeated record came to an end with a very exciting match that ended with Toluca defeating them by a 3-2 score. While Toluca was the better team and the win was deserved, Pumas’ fans will feel and opportunity was wanted when Morales’ terrible miss meant that a 2-0 lead at home would end up a minute later with a 1-1 tie. Pumas should also be worried about the team’s defensive struggles especially after the tying goal being similar to the goal that Tijuana scored on Friday against Pumas. Pumas will need to bounce back quickly as they have to travel to play on Friday against Necaxa in Aguascalientes. Toluca will return home where they will be heavy favorites against FC Juarez as they once again are a leading candidates for the Liga MX title.
LAS VEGAS, Nev. - The UNLV Runnin' Rebels defeated the Utah State Aggies, 92-65, on Tuesday March 3, 2026, at the Thomas and Mack Center and The Sporting Tribune's RJ Forbus was there to capture the following TST Images.
RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune
UNLV Runnin' Rebels G Dravyn Gibbs-Lawhorn (0) hypes up the crowd in the final minutes of a college basketball game against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune
UNLV Runnin' Rebels senior G Howie Fleming Jr. (3) battles for position against a Utah State Aggies player on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune
UNLV Runnin' Rebels G Issac Williamson (12) follows through on a three-point shot against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune
UNLV Runnin' Rebels F Tyrin Jones (6) dunks the ball during a college basketball game against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune
UNLV Runnin' Rebels senior F Kimani Hamilton and teammate F Tyrin Jones (6) celebrate after Hamilton earns a free throw shot after scoring a basket against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune
UNLV Runnin' Rebels senior F Kimani Hamilton (2) watches the ball after shooting a three-point shot against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune
UNLV Runnin' Rebels F Jacob Bannarbie (10) looks for a pass during a college basketball game against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune
UNLV Runnin' Rebels senior F Walter Brown (22) dunks the ball during a college basketball game against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune
UNLV Runnin' Rebels F Jacob Bannarbie (10) draws a foul while shooting a lay-up shot during a college basketball game against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune
UNLV Runnin' Rebels F Tyrin Jones (6) points to the crowd after scoring a breakaway basket against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The UCLA men’s basketball team made Senior Night one to savor Tuesday, dominating No. 9 Nebraska 72-52 at Pauley Pavilion for its 20th victory of the season and third over a top-10 ranked opponent.
The Bruins improved to 20-10 overall and 12-7 in the Big Ten with one regular season game remaining, Saturday at crosstown rival USC.
Trent Perry scored 20 points, Eric Dailey Jr. had 14 and three players — Tyler Bilodeau, Skyy Clark and Xavier Booker — each added eight points.
Sam Hoiberg had 12 points to lead Nebraska.
The Bruins were in control from the opening tip-off and never trailed the Cornhuskers (25-5, 14-5). UCLA improved to 10-3 in all-time against Nebraska and the win greatly strengthened its resume for an NCAA tournament berth as the Bruins also beat then-No. 4 Purdue 69-67 on Jan. 20 and then-No. 10 Illinois 95-94 in overtime on Feb. 21 on Donovan Dent’s layup with one second left.
Read more:Kelly Inouye-Perez proud to honor UCLA Bruins' legacy of winning
This is the fifth time in head coach Mick Cronin’s seven seasons that the Bruins have won 20 or more games. They are 17-1 at home (their only loss in overtime to Indiana on Jan. 31).
UCLA went ahead by 15 points, 37-22, on Perry’s three-pointer with 2:41 left and led 37-24 at intermission. The Bruins shot 50% from the field in the first half (15-for-30) while Nebraska was only 31 percent (nine-for-29).
The Bruins increased their advantage to 18 points on Dailey Jr.’s dunk less than five minutes into the second half and the visitors got no closer than nine the rest of the way.
Prior to pregame introductions the Bruins honored seniors Bilodeau, Dent and Clark; fifth-year player Jamar Brown; redshirt seniors Steven Jamerson II, Jack Seidler and Anthony Peoples Jr; and redshirt junior Evan Manjikian. In a media timeout, midway through the first half, former coach Jim Harrick (who led UCLA to its 11th national championship in 1995) was honored and got a loud ovation.
Over the last four games, Dent has 46 assists and just two turnovers.
Bilodeau has scored in double figures in 26 of 28 games played, totaling 20 points or more nine times.
Dailey moved to within five points of reaching the 1,000-career point milestone.
UCLA has now made at least one three-pointer in 887 of 888 games dating to February 2000.
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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Five goals to win a hockey game is where the Edmonton Oilers are at right now.
They gave up four goals in forty minutes, fell behind by two, and needed a comeback win against the Ottawa Senstors who have been watching the playoff race from the outside for a while now.
This isn’t a new story, that much is obvious. This is the same turnovers, the same high danger chances, and the same goaltending left out to dry at various points throughout the game. But then there's a dominant third-period comeback that makes you wonder why they can’t just play like that for sixty minutes instead of twenty.
Compare it to the other night in San Jose, and it's a slight, subtle improvement.
“The previous game against San Jose was just horrible," began Zach Hyman. "We were flat. And this game we were better. There’s just some lapses in our game that result in high danger chances, and those are tough. We would love it if the other team would give us lapses like that, right?
"So (there's) things that you can clean up just by being sharper, being more desperate, having more urgency in your game. And I think we showed it in the third period. That’s a result of playing better all around.”
Connor Murphy Embraces Oilers Pressure: “Winning Is the Top Priority”New acquisition Connor Murphy revealed trade details after coming to the Oilers, his eagerness to play meaningful games, and why Edmonton's pressure is a privilege.Hyman’s describing a team that’s been capable of playing well all season but still can’t consistently put together a full sixty-minute effort. Those lapses he’s talking about aren’t some new development that crept into their game recently. They’ve been there, showing up at the worst possible times, and at some point, “we can clean it up” needs to actually become cleaning it up.
Tuesday’s win was the kind of game the Oilers themselves have criticized. Needing five goals because you gave up four isn’t sustainable, and everyone in that room knows it. This a team, and a group of players, who have gone as far as you can without winning it all, and they know a 5-4 overtime win over Ottawa isn’t it.
“We don’t want to be putting ourselves in that position, continued Hyman. "But sometimes you need a game like that where you can come back and it’s a complete team effort, and you’re able to dominate a third period and win a game. So I thought it was a good one for us, and hopefully a springboard for better games.”
Oilers Aren't Accepting Any Excuses For Recent PerformanceForget fatigue theories. Oilers players demand better performance, refusing to let past success excuse current struggles.A springboard is an optimistic outlook, and sure, maybe it is. Stranger things have happened. But the Oilers have had plenty of moments this season that felt like turning points and then weren’t, so forgive anyone for not getting too excited about an overtime win against a mediocre team in early March.
“We don’t have huge smiles on our face, we’re not coming out of this game patting ourselves on the back," said Hyman. "We’ve been to the finals, we know what it takes. We know what type of hockey you have to play.
"Again, having said that, there are positives, and we know we can come back in games, and there are going to be some of those, but if you want to be successful, you got to keep the puck out of your net. And I think we are capable of doing that. We just have to do it more often and consistently.”
The State Of The Oilers And Their Playoff PositionTake a look at the NHL standings and spend a few minutes with the games played column. The <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/edmonton-oilers#google_vignette">Edmonton Oilers</a> have played more games than just about anyone in the league, and they're sitting third in the Pacific at 29-24-8 while other teams in the Pacific have multiple games in hand.
They keep coming back to the word "capable," and it’s accurate. This is absolutely a capable hockey team. But capability without consistency is just potential, and potential doesn’t get you very far when the games actually matter. On their best nights, the Oilers look like a genuine contender.
The issue is that their best nights and their worst nights have been showing up in no particular order, and time is running out to figure it out.
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SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Jalen Green scored 20 points, Grayson Allen had 18 and the Phoenix Suns beat the NBA-worst Sacramento Kings 114-103 on Tuesday night to sweep the four-game season series.
Seventh in the West at 35-26, the Suns won their second straight and got back Devin Booker after the star guard missed four games because of a right hip injury. He scored 14 of his 17 points in the first half.
Collin Gillespie scored 17 points — hitting 5 of 8 3-pointers — and had nine assists and six rebounds. Oso Ighodaro added 14 points and 14 rebounds. Phoenix is without Dillon Brooks because of a fractured left hand.
The Suns used a 14-0 run in the third quarter to turn a 63-62 deficit into a 76-63 lead. Royce O’Neale capped the run with consecutive 3-pointers.
Maxime Raynaud had 22 points — on 10-of-12 shooting — and 10 rebounds for Sacramento in the opener of a five-game homestand. The Kings dropped to 14-49. They are 2-3 following a franchise-worst 16-game losing streak.
Precious Achiuwa added 18 points, DeMar DeRozan had 17 and Russell Westbrook 16. Kings forward Keegan Murray missed his third straight game because of ankle injury.
Phoenix led 59-55 at the half. Ighodaro had 12 points and 10 rebounds in the half, and Achiuwa had 16 points for Sacramento.
Suns: Host Chicago on Thursday night.
Kings: Host New Orleans on Thursday night.
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AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba
The NBA player who had the league's second-longest active games played streak saw that spell snapped over the weirdest reason.
San Antonio Spurs forward Harrison Barnes had played in 364 consecutive games, trailing only New York Knicks forward Mikal Bridges' longest active streak of 616 games. But on Tuesday, March 3, ahead of San Antonio's game against the Philadelphia 76ers, Spurs coach Mitch Johnson revealed that Barnes was a late addition to the injury report.
Per Johnson, Barnes woke up from a pregame nap with a sore left ankle.
“He’s with the medical staff now,” Johnson told reporters prior to the game. “Hoping it’s nothing serious, but I don’t have much information.”
Barnes was initially listed as questionable, though he would go on to miss the game to snap his streak. The Spurs dominated Philadelphia, winning by 40 points, 131-91. Eight different Spurs scored double figures and all but one of the 13 players who appeared in the game scored a point.
This marked the first time since Dec. 4, 2021 that Barnes missed a game, when he was a member of the Sacramento Kings.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Nap injury halts Harrison Barnes' consecutive game streak
GOLD COAST, Australia (AP) — Sara Didar choked back tears as she shared the concerns of the Iranian soccer team for their families and loved ones at home amid the war while they're in Australia contesting the Women’s Asian Cup.
“Obviously we’re all concerned and we’re sad at what has happened to Iran and our families in Iran,” Didar said in comments translated to English during a news conference Wednesday on the eve of a Group A game against Australia.
"I really hope for our country to have good news ahead. And I hope that my country will be strongly alive.”
The 21-year-old striker was part of the squad that stood in silence as the Iran anthem played at the Gold Coast Stadium before their opening loss to South Korea on Monday.
The squad and management arrived in Australia well before the strikes by Israel and the U.S. on Saturday that led to the broader conflict.
Head coach Marziyeh Jafari and players declined to comment on the war or the death of the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during their first official news conference of the tournament on Sunday.
On Wednesday, an Asian Football Confederation moderator asked reporters before the scheduled pre-match news conference to stick with football questions and refrain from asking about the war.
When a question was posed, Didar and Jafari each expressed concerns about the people in Iran.
“Obviously we have so much concern regarding the health of our families and our loved ones and all other Iranian people inside our country, which we are fully disconnected with," Jafari said, highlighting the limited contact because of blackouts in Iran.
“But, here, we are coming to play football professionally and we will do our best to concentrate on our football and match ahead.”
A pocket of Iranian fans at Monday's game waved the red, green and white national colors and some pre-Islamic revolution flags, and chanted support for the team.
Jafari said the team was happy to have the support of Iranian-Australians.
Australia coach Joe Montemurro said he wanted his team and supporters to greet the Iranian squad with compassion. Thursday's game is expected to draw a capacity crowd at Gold Coast Stadium.
“We want to give them the best tournament possible in terms of giving them the experience of a lifetime," Montemurro said. "For us, it’s about just showing our human compassion, our respect and show them how beautiful we are as a country, and how beautiful we are as Australians.”
Australia, the 2010 Asian Cup champions and semifinalist at the 2023 World Cup it co-hosted with New Zealand, opened with a 1-0 win over Philippines and can secure a quarterfinal spot with a win over Iran. The Iranians are in Australia hoping to qualify for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil, which means they have to finish in the top eight in the Asian Cup.
___
AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer
In the modern era, with NIL and instant transfers, it’s pretty easy for a coach to win in Year 1.
Well, at the top of the sport, that is.
When you get down to lower levels, what you find is that a) you don’t have the NIL resources that bigger schools have, and b) players are much more likely to prove themselves and transfer up.
Therefore, winning at smaller schools is tougher, and winning at most HBCUs is even more difficult.
All of which makes what former Duke guard and assistant Nolan Smith has accomplished this season even more impressive: in his first season at Tennessee State, Smith is currently 21-9 and 15-5 in the OVC.
The OVC tournament starts on Friday, and if Tennessee State wins that, they’ll be playing in the NCAA tournament. And if that happens, there’s a pretty good chance they’ll draw Duke in the first round.
This Duke Basketball season has been immensely satisfying for Blue Devil fans, and that’s on both the men’s and women’s side.
Both teams won regular season ACC Championships and on Tuesday, women’s coach Kara Lawson was named ACC Coach of the Year.
It’s richly deserved.
You’ll remember that when Duke played West Virginia on November 14th, and after a scuffle right before halftime and multiple ejections, the Mountaineers beat Duke with just five available players.
The Blue Devils fell to 3-6 before they started winning, running off 17 straight victories before losing at Clemson.
Duke finished the regular season ranked #13 nationally.
It was truly a remarkable coaching job and the honor is richly deserved.
In addition to Lawson, four other players were honored: Toby Fournier is first-team All-ACC, while according to GoDuke.com, “…senior Taina Mair made her All-ACC debut with first-team honors by the Blue Ribbon Panel and second-team recognition in a vote of the league’s coaches. Senior Ashlon Jackson was voted to the first team by the coaches and to the second team by the Blue Ribbon Panel. Both Fournier and Mair were tabbed to the All-Defensive Team by both voting groups. Freshman Arianna Roberson rounded out Duke’s selections with All-Freshman Team honors for both lists.”
This has been an immensely satisfying season, and of course, it’s not over yet. The ACC Tournament starts on Wednesday, and then it’s on to the NCAAs.
Let’s go Duke!
LOS ANGELES — Trent Perry scored 20 points and UCLA led all the way in ending No. 9 Nebraska’s three-game winning streak with a 72-52 victory on Tuesday night.
The Bruins (20-10, 12-7 Big Ten) notched 20 wins for the seventh time in 10 years and closed their home schedule with a 17-1 mark at Pauley Pavilion, where they also beat ranked Purdue and Illinois.
Sophomore Perry and junior Eric Dailey Jr. upstaged Tyler Bilodeau, Donovan Dent and Skyy Clark on Senior Night.
Dailey finished with 14 points and eight rebounds. Bilodeau, UCLA’s leading scorer at 17.9 points, was held to eight. Dent had four points and eight assists after averaging 15.7 points and 12.7 assists in his last three games. Clark had eight points while in foul trouble along with Dent.
The loss knocked the Cornhuskers (25-5, 14-5) out of a second-place tie with idle Michigan State in the Big Ten. They were led by Sam Hoiberg with 12 points. Rienk Mast and Cale Jacobsen had 11 points each.
Nebraska came in averaging 11.2 3-pointers, with Hoiberg and Pryce Sandfort hitting 42% from long range. But the Bruins’ defense held the Huskers to 5 of 24, while UCLA made 10 from long range.
The Bruins led 37-24 at halftime after Perry’s 3-pointer capped an 8-0 run.
Nebraska: Hosts Iowa on Sunday to close regular season.
UCLA: Visits crosstown rival USC on Saturday to end regular season.
The University of Dayton men’s basketball team needed some last-second heroics to beat the Richmond Spiders on Wednesday night.
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Jordan Derkack’s basket with 40 seconds and three free throws lifted Dayton to a 65-60 win over the Spiders at the Robins Center in Richmond, VA.
De’Shayne Montgomery led UD with 15 points while Derkack and Amael L’Etang each finished with 13.
The Flyers have now won six straight games. They improved to 21-9 overall, and 12-5 in the Atlantic 10.
With the win, Dayton clinches the double-bye in next week’s Atlantic 10 Championship in Pittsburgh.
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UD jumped out to a 12-2 lead as Montgomery scored five points, including a fastbreak dunk.
L’Etang’s three-pointer gave the Flyers their largest lead, 17-5, with 13:33 left in the first half. But the Spiders fought back and got as close as 31-29 with 4:11 remaining until halftime.
Bryce Heard and Javon Bennett each made a trey to help Dayton to a 40-32 halftime advantage.
It stayed closed throughout the second half, but UD led 56-48 with 9:32 to play. Richmond scored eight straight points to tie it 56-56 with 5:35 left.
After a timeout, L’Etang’s layup reclaimed the lead, 58-56. Bennett added two free throws to extend it to 60-56.
Richmond’s Will Johnson scored to tie at 60-60 with 1:51 to play.
The Spiders missed a pair of three-pointers that could have given them the lead.
Derkack scored with 39 seconds left to put Dayton up for good, 62-60. He added a free throw to extend it to 63-60. UD got a stop with four seconds left, and Derkack sealed the game with two free throws.
Dayton concludes the regular season when they host VCU at the UD Arena for Senior Night. Tip-off is at 7 p.m.
Pre-game coverage on WHIO Radio begins at 6 p.m. The game will also be carried here at WHIO.com.
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When the Arizona Cardinals made it clear they were moving on from Kyler Murray, the conversation immediately shifted from why to what’s next. Not just for Murray, but for the teams desperate enough at quarterback to consider him.
For Pete Prisco, the discussion isn’t about talent first. It’s about cost.
“Jeff, you have to ask yourself, what’s the price going to be?” Prisco said. “And is the price going to be higher than what Malik Willis is going to get? Is the price going to be higher than what anybody else is going to get?”
That framing matters. Murray isn’t entering the market as an unknown upside swing. He’s a former No. 1 overall pick with multiple strong seasons on his résumé. But he’s also not a blank slate. Prisco didn’t hesitate when comparing him to other options.
“I would rather have Kyler Murray, no questions asked,” he said. “Kyler Murray’s played games, he has experience. I don’t know what Malik Willis can do, he’s only started four games. That’s a small sample size.”
That’s the core of Prisco’s argument. Whatever flaws Murray has shown, he’s at least shown something. Teams know what functional NFL quarterback play from him looks like. They’ve seen the high-end stretches. They’ve seen the playoff appearance. They’ve seen the dynamic mobility.
“Did Kyler Murray have some issues? Yeah,” Prisco admitted. “But he’s had some good games. He’s had some good years.” So the debate isn’t whether Murray can play. It’s whether a team is willing to commit.
“The question you have to ask yourself if you’re in that market is, ‘are you committed to him for the long run?’”
If a franchise views him as a bridge quarterback, the number changes. If it views him as a long-term answer, the structure changes. And that leads to the contract comparison Prisco floated.
“Are you giving him a one-year deal? Two-year deal? How are you doing it? Are you giving him the Justin Fields deal? Two years, $40 million? Is he gonna take that?”
That hypothetical is telling. A short-term, prove-it structure protects the team. But would Murray, with his pedigree and production history, accept something that treats him like a reclamation project? Once Prisco established the financial lens, he started running through potential landing spots, and the answers weren’t clean fits.
“Let’s start with the Jets. Makes sense, they don’t have anybody,” he said.
On the surface, that pairing checks out. The Jets need a quarterback. Murray provides experience and upside. But again, the same question applies: what are you paying, and for how long?
The Minnesota Vikings? “They don’t have any cap room, and it doesn’t seem like a fit in that Kevin O’Connell offense,” Prisco said. Even if there’s a theoretical need, schematic comfort and cap constraints complicate it.
The Pittsburgh Steelers feel conditional.“Looks like Rodgers is gonna come back,” Prisco noted. “If he doesn’t, I think they could be in play.” In other words, Murray becomes a Plan B depending on how another domino falls.
He even tossed out Miami, though without conviction, and then turned to a more layered situation in Atlanta.
“How about the Atlanta Falcons? I don’t know where Michael Penix is coming off of that third knee injury. Are they committed to Michael Penix? This is a new regime.”
That’s the key. New leadership often reopens quarterback evaluations. Commitment to a previous plan isn’t always permanent. Then came the curveball.
“This is going to sound crazy, but the Cleveland Browns,” Prisco said. “We know that Todd Monken likes mobile quarterbacks. When you look at Shedeur Sanders, that’s not who he is. So could he be in play at the Browns?” Murray’s mobility still differentiates him in a league increasingly built around movement.
Ultimately, Prisco’s breakdown wasn’t about finding the perfect schematic match. It was about narrowing the decision to two variables: price and commitment. Murray is better than some of the names he’ll be compared to. Prisco was clear about that. But does better mean worth resetting your cap sheet or tying up your future?
The post “You’re Giving Him a Justin Fields Deal?”: Pete Prisco Names Six Landing Spots for Kyler Murray appeared first on The SportsRush.
With first place in the Pacific Division on the line and hopes to extend their winning streak to six games, the Anaheim Ducks hosted the Colorado Avalanche on Tuesday night at Honda Center.
Colorado entered play on their second game of a back-to-back, having won four of their previous five games, and at the top of the overall NHL standings.
Beckett Sennecke Leads Rookie Scorers, Will Soon Face Fellow Calder Favorites
Ducks’ Poehling is Jack of All Trades
With Troy Terry and Mikael Granlund still unavailable, Ryan Strome served as the team’s lone healthy scratch. Here’s how the Ducks lined up to start this game:
Kreider-Carlsson-Gauthier
Killorn-Poehling-Sennecke
Viel-McTavish-Harkins
Johnston-Washe-Moore
LaCombe-Trouba
Zellweger-Gudas
Mintyukov-Helleson
Lukas Dostal got the start for the Ducks, his seventh in a row, and saved 21 of 26 shots in this game. In Colorado’s crease stood Scott Wedgewood, who stopped 27 of 28.
“They (Colorado) play a complete game. They go four lines deep. They trust all their lines that they play the right way,” Joel Quenneville said of the Avalanche after the game. “Technically, they’re strong. They did a good job of preventing us to get inside in their end, and that might have been the difference.”
The Avs were without one of their better forwards, Artturi Lehkonen, in this game, but they run as cohesive a system as one can find in the NHL, so they didn’t skip a beat with him out of the lineup. Colorado had a unique ability to both clog the neutral zone, especially along the boards, and retrieve pucks before cleanly and efficiently breaking them out of their end, making establishing any semblance of a forecheck a gargantuan undertaking for Anaheim.
Colorado dictated game flow in every situation after the first few shifts, and they carried that until the Ducks made a “too little, too late” push in the third period. At 5v5, the Ducks accounted for 51.11% of the shots on goal and 47.87% of the shot attempts, but just 43.97% of the expected goals. The Ducks couldn’t open seams or get to dangerous rebounds.
D-Zone Coverage/Dostal: When pucks moved laterally high in the defensive zone, Dostal, who is typically a world-class puck tracking goaltender, had a difficult time with the layers of moving screens Colorado sent his way in this game. As the play shifted sides up top, the new strong-side defenseman was often caught in “no-man’s land,” where he couldn’t challenge or block the shot and couldn’t pick up one of the multiple opposing forwards at the crease.
These aren’t new areas of concern for the Ducks in defensive zone coverage, but Dostal is usually spectacular enough to paper over many of their issues. Today, he was just human.
Leo Carlsson: Carlsson is continuing to display how effective he can be at full health and is using his speed to drive opposing defensemen back towards their low slot, which opens up east/west lanes high in the zone.
Even if those lanes aren’t present and he can’t change pace or cut back to the middle, he’s finding ways to get shots off, and with the speed of the Ducks’ attack, they’re able to get to pucks first a lot of the time. It’s like a new approach to establishing a forecheck while also generating a rebound and potential immediate scoring chance.
Radko Gudas: Gudas has done well to play within his skillset this season, contained and keeping plays in front of him. In this game, he was a step slow to read how plays were developing, affecting how quickly he reacted and attempted to get into position. He and his entire blueline had a difficult time sorting which of the multiple opposing netfront forwards each other would cover, and by the time they did, there was an established screen or flurry at the crease.
The Ducks will look to iron out these issues immediately, as they’ll be right back at Honda Center on Wednesday night to host the New York Islanders.
Anaheim Ducks 2026 Trade Deadline Preview
Atalanta’s general manager for institutional affairs Umberto Marino understands the danger that his club faces against Bayern Munich in the Champions League
“We will face a great global football club like Bayern Munich with great pride in representing Italy,” Marino, told Sky Sport after the round of 16 draw at UEFA headquarters in Nyon (as captured by Ansa). “We will try to make life difficult for them by playing like Atalanta, with courage, desire, and the support of the fans.
“Being in contention for the Italian league, the Champions League, and the Coppa Italia simultaneously is a unique achievement for us. We’ll have to play the match of our lives against Bayern Munich, but if they win, we’ll shake their hand.”
Atalanta proved its mettle in battling back from a 2-0 deficit in the Champions League Playoff Round to ultimate win its tie against Borussia Dortmund 4-3. That same kind of resilience and aggression will be needed against Bayern Munich.
If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast, Spotify, Apple, or any leading podcast distributor…
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Liam Rosenior believes that winger Alejandro Garnacho could be getting stick purely based on the way he looks.
The former Manchester United player has always had to deal with getting booed and stick from away fans during games, something that has now carried on to his time at Chelsea as well. He is often on the receiving end to a lot of criticism as well.
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He’s not really came in and banged at Chelsea yet, and he’s mostly just been used as a bench player. But it looks like he could get a start tonight against Aston Villa.
Alejandro Garnacho scores his second goal. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Liam Rosenior says Alejandro Garnacho is ‘knocking on the door to start’ against Aston Villa.
‘Garna is a top player,’ said Rosenior at his pre-match press conference as cited on Chelsea FC. ‘I’ve changed a little bit tactically since I’ve come in; I’ve wanted to dominate midfield areas. That has meant at times I’ve only played with one winger, but Garna is an outstanding player.
‘What I’ve really liked in this period is his reaction to not starting. He’s been training very well and showed real positivity when he came on against Arsenal [on Sunday].
‘He was also magnificent against Hull in the FA Cup and had a huge impact in the game against Arsenal when he scored two goals [Carabao Cup semi-final first leg].’
Rosenior continued: ‘We have got to take into account that Garna is 21 – he’s got huge ability and huge potential.
‘For any young player, the biggest thing to be challenged is your consistency level, but he’s showing really good signs, not just in training but in meetings, that he’s on a really good track. He’s definitely going to get his opportunities to play with the schedule we’ve got coming up.
‘Garna has put himself in a really, really good place the last few weeks and he’s more than knocking on the door to start.
‘He’s a great kid. He’s had a very difficult thing happen in his life recently – and rather than tell me about that, he wanted to put himself forward for a game and only told me after the game when he had to go back home.
‘People make judgments based on the way people look. Garna is a really good character who works really hard every day in training. I know in the end his quality is going to show in a really consistent way.’
Speaking after the defeat to Arsenal from Sunday afternoon, Liam Rosenior, has come out and called for a rule change regarding corners.
Meanwhile, Reece James’ father has been given the task of working with incoming wonderkid Dastan Satpaev in his own youth academy, keeping it all very close to home.
Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:
CINCINNATI — In what came as absolutely no surprise to anybody who has been paying attention the past few weeks, once-ranked and mighty BYU was pulverized 90-68 by red-hot Cincinnati on Tuesday night in front of a sellout crowd of 12,012 at Fifth Third Arena.
That some people believed the Cougars, who have now lost three straight and nine of their last 13, were going to somehow flip a switch and revert to their winning ways seems quite laughable at this point. BYU’s hope for something beside a double-digit seed in the NCAA Tournament took another big hit, and another Quad 1 opportunity fell by the wayside.
Actually, it fell as flat as the Cougars (20-10, 8-9), who inched even closer to having to play in a first-round game in next week’s Big 12 tournament.
And they should be hoping not to have to face the Bearcats (17-13, 9-8), who are playing with a sense of urgency and desperation that somehow has evaded BYU coach Kevin Young’s team the past month, with the exception of that upset of No. 6 Iowa State in the friendly confines of the Marriott Center.
A mark of a mediocre team, or worse, is that it cannot play as well on the road in the face of a raucous crowd as it can at home, and that certainly applies to BYU.
Hoping to make amends for that 79-71 loss at unranked West Virginia three days ago, the Cougars looked even more lost on defense, discombobulated on offense and as out of sorts as at any time this season on Tuesday.
“Dug ourselves in a hole to start the game with just bad offense,” Young said. “They had 13 points off the turnovers in the first half, and that continued in the second.
“It was a 21-4 deficit for points off turnovers. Makes it tough to win. We were just careless with the ball.”
Meanwhile, homestanding Cincinnati played with fire and passion, beating BYU to 50-50 balls all night and taking advantage of all kinds of mismatches to win going away.
Sure, BYU superstar freshman AJ Dybantsa had a game-high 23 points, but he had to hoist up 21 shots to get there, and was 1 of 8 from 3-point range.
Point guard Rob Wright added 21 points on 8-of-16 shooting, but did not have a single assist in 32 minutes.
That’s just not winning basketball.
Wright (four) and Dybantsa combined for nine of BYU’s 15 turnovers, which, as Young noted, Cincy turned into 21 points.
Playing against another soft defensive effort from BYU, Cincy had just seven turnovers, and several of those came in the meaningless last few minutes.
“They just took the ball from us. Really, that’s the bottom line,” Young said. “We got to do a better job with our decision making.
“That’s been an area that we have struggled in. I mean, Rob and AJ had the ball a lot. They had nine turnovers between the two of them, so that’s gotta improve.”
The Cougars did improve in the rebounding department after that was the culprit in their loss to WVU, which is saying something considering Cincy has one of the tallest front courts in the Big 12 — paced by Baba Miller and Moustapha Thiam.
Those two combined for 31 points and 21 rebounds, and completely dominated inside. Super senior Day Day Thomas added 12, and Jizzle James and Jalen Celestine contributed 18 apiece as five Bearcats reached double figures.
Young said he will be happy to see Thomas and James move on after the backcourt duo killed the Cougars last year here as well.
What the Cougars — relegated to being a two-man team, pretty much, without Richie Saunders — would give to have that kind of balance.
Freshman Aleksej Kostic is coming along — he had another decent night off the bench with 14 points on 5-of-9 shooting — but starter Khadim Mboup didn’t score in 12 minutes, starting center Keba Keita was virtually non-existent on offense with two points and four fouls in 21 minutes and Kennard Davis Jr. only had six points and a rebound in 21 minutes.
Young got so desperate that he turned to seldom-used Dominique Diomande for 13 minutes. The Washington transfer played some decent defense and had five rebounds, but it is too late in the season to expect much more from him.
At times, Dybantsa tries to do too much, and it appears that he’s wearing down, along with Wright. Both missed a lot of shots that they normally make.
“Not well,” Dybantsa said when he was asked how he fared against UC’s double-teaming and constant harassment. “Just turned the ball over, careless passes, not being strong with the ball. They were just being physical. I thought I was getting to my spots.
“I could have settled. I mean, I think I did settle for tough (shots) at times. … For the most part, I was getting good looks, but I was just trying to be more physical with the ball and stop making stupid turnovers.”
If there was another stat — aside from points off turnovers — that symbolized the game, it was UC’s 12 fast-break points, to BYU’s two. Nothing fires up a home crowd more than a steal and fast break dunk, and UC had plenty of those.
Nothing comes easy for this BYU offense anymore. The Cougars shot 41% from the floor, 29% from 3-point range and almost got to free-throw line as much as the Bearcats, but couldn’t deliver much there, either.
They were 13 of 19 from the charity stripe.
Dybantsa was 8 of 11 from the line, and was greeted with chants of “overrated” or “Boozer is better” at almost every appearance at the line.
Cincinnati continued to pour it on late — Celestine popped a 3-pointer with 56 seconds remaining and his team up by 19 — but Young had nothing but praise for the Bearcats, who are playing like a team that could do some damage in the Big 12 Tournament.
BYU is not.
“You got to give Wes (Miller) tons of credit,” Young said. “He was feeling like I’m feeling right now a couple weeks ago. He’s a competitive guy.
“He’s a good coach, and he’s done a good job of finding a rhythm with this particular group that he’s playing with right now.”
Offensive rhythm is no longer in BYU’s vocabulary. Dybantsa, who reached 20 points or more for the 23rd time this season, and Wright are Young’s only options. An issue moving forward is that some guys are regressing instead of improving, guys such as Mihailo Boskovic and Keita.
Of course, awful starts also continue to plague the Cougars. There always seems to be a different reason for BYU’s first-half struggles, and on this night it was turnovers. The Cougars committed 10 in the first half, which Cincy turned into 13 points.
Dybantsa pressed too much in the first half, and committed five turnovers to go with eight points, two rebounds and four assists.
He was 3 of 11 from the field in the first half, 0 for 4 from 3-point range.
Young went with his seventh different starting lineup this season, to no avail. Cincinnati went on a 14-2 run early in the first half to take control, get the crowd involved, and force Young into burning a timeout to stop the bleeding.
BYU trailed by as many as 16 points, 37-21, with just under five minutes remaining in the half before Kostic hit some shots late in the half to make it 43-31 at the break.
The Cougars tightened their defense in the final minutes of the first half, but couldn’t sustain it into the second half.
So the Cougars turn their attention to Saturday’s home finale against No. 16 Texas Tech, which was upset by TCU on Tuesday night in Lubbock.
Young said his message to the Cougars after the discouraging loss was a simple one.
“I just want our guys to continue to believe in each other and believe in themselves,” he said.
Not many others are doing that right now, for obvious reasons.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Trent Perry scored 20 points and UCLA led all the way in ending No. 9 Nebraska's three-game winning streak with a 72-52 victory on Tuesday night.
The Bruins (20-10, 12-7 Big Ten) notched 20 wins for the seventh time in 10 years and closed their home schedule with a 17-1 mark at Pauley Pavilion, where they also beat ranked Purdue and Illinois.
Sophomore Perry and junior Eric Dailey Jr. upstaged Tyler Bilodeau, Donovan Dent and Skyy Clark on Senior Night.
Dailey finished with 14 points and eight rebounds. Bilodeau, UCLA's leading scorer at 17.9 points, was held to eight. Dent had four points and eight assists after averaging 15.7 points and 12.7 assists in his last three games. Clark had eight points while in foul trouble along with Dent.
The loss knocked the Cornhuskers (25-5, 14-5) out of a second-place tie with idle Michigan State in the Big Ten. They were led by Sam Hoiberg with 12 points. Rienk Mast and Cale Jacobsen had 11 points each.
Nebraska came in averaging 11.2 3-pointers, with Hoiberg and Pryce Sandfort hitting 42% from long range. But the Bruins' defense held the Huskers to 5 of 24, while UCLA made 10 from long range.
The Bruins led 37-24 at halftime after Perry’s 3-pointer capped an 8-0 run.
Nebraska: Hosts Iowa on Sunday to close regular season.
UCLA: Visits crosstown rival USC on Saturday to end regular season.
___
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SACRAMENTO – After a full team effort, the Phoenix Suns kept their foot on the gas pedal and defeated the Sacramento Kings by a score of 114-103 on Tuesday night at the Golden 1 Center.
Mar 3, 2026; Sacramento, California, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) looks on during the second quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Justine Willard-Imagn Images
It was the return of Phoenix’s star Devin Booker, and their offense needed the leadership he provides. Booker eased back into action and shot 6-for-19 for 17 points. He didn’t force rhythm; he let it find him, and that restraint mattered. It signaled a shift from dependency to design. Phoenix no longer needs brilliance every possession to win.
Mar 3, 2026; Sacramento, California, USA; Phoenix forward Oso Ighodaro (11) and Phoenix guard Devin Booker (1) high five during the second quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Justine Willard-Imagn Images
Instead, the Suns overwhelmed Sacramento with balance. Jalen Green shot with confidence and control at times, bending the defense just enough to unlock driving lanes and kick-outs. The bench amplified it. Grayson Allen putting up 18 points shows how important he is to their system. Oso Ighodaro’s 14 points reflected interior activity. Rookie Rasheer Fleming added timely minutes that steadied second-unit stretches.
Mar 3, 2026; Sacramento, California, USA; Phoenix guard Grayson Allen (8) shoots a three point basket during the second quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Justine Willard-Imagn Images
Collin Gillespie also had something to say on Tuesday night. Six of nine from the field. Five of eight from three. That’s not a heater, that’s shot profile discipline. If Gillespie becomes a reliable spacer, Phoenix’s offensive rating in spread lineups could spike dramatically. For Suns fans, the takeaway is simple: sustainability wins in April. Depth survives series, and this game builds belief. Nationally, it reframes the Suns as layered, not top-heavy.
As the ongoing conflict between Iran and several Western powers intensifies, Thailand’s tourism sector faces significant challenges. The government’s ambitious target to welcome 36 million international visitors in 2026 may be in jeopardy due to airspace closures and the surge in travel costs caused by rerouted flights. As the Middle East conflict spills over, affecting global air travel networks, Thailand – a country that thrives on tourism – could see fewer international visitors arriving, especially those from the Middle East and Europe.
The conflict, which erupted on February 28, 2026, when the US and Israel took military action against Iran, has led to several countries in the region closing their airspace. These closures have created a ripple effect in the aviation industry, with flights being cancelled, rerouted, or delayed, disrupting travelers worldwide. With many flights between Europe and Southeast Asia traditionally passing through the Middle East, the rerouting of these flights has led to higher airfare, adding further financial strain to the industry. In turn, this could deter potential tourists from planning their trips to Thailand in the coming months.
Thailand’s tourism industry has been hit hard by the geopolitical tensions surrounding Iran. This conflict has directly affected the air routes, primarily impacting travelers from Middle Eastern countries, a key market for Thailand’s booming tourism sector. The immediate concern for the Thai Hotels Association (THA) is that travelers from the Middle East, who usually flock to the country during the high season from June to August, may be dissuaded from traveling due to the safety risks and logistical issues caused by the conflict.
With the airspace closures, the challenge lies not only in delays but also in flight cancellations, leaving some Middle Eastern tourists stranded in Thailand, unable to return home, while others are unable to travel to Thailand in the first place. However, there is still uncertainty about how long the disruptions will last, and whether air traffic routes can be restored or rerouted in a way that allows travel to return to normal levels.
Although the main impact of the conflict has been felt in the Middle East, European tourists traveling to Thailand are also feeling the strain. Many flights from Europe that typically pass through Middle Eastern airspace are now being rerouted, resulting in higher ticket prices. Although Europe’s peak travel season for Thailand has already passed, the increased cost of flights may still affect the number of tourists visiting during the low season, potentially leading to a slight decline in arrivals.
Despite these challenges, experts believe that European tourism bookings for Thailand will remain strong. However, the additional costs and longer travel times could deter last-minute bookings, especially among budget travelers. It is expected that tourists from regions with more stable air routes, like Asia, may face delays of up to 20%, particularly if they feel concerned about the ongoing global instability and safety risks.
The most immediate and noticeable impact is being felt in the Middle Eastern tourism sector. Airline disruptions are severely affecting travel from countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar, among others. These countries are not only important for Thailand’s tourism economy but also contribute significantly during the peak travel months in the summer.
While the Middle East usually experiences a low travel season from Thailand, this period typically still sees many visitors from the region. The ongoing disruption could undermine the country’s ability to attract a record number of visitors as predicted, possibly leading to a substantial shortfall in arrivals.
Moreover, the Middle East conflict has raised concerns among travelers about their safety, potentially deterring them from booking international trips. Security concerns in the wake of the conflict could have a broad impact on global travel patterns, with travelers around the world looking for destinations perceived as safer and more stable.
The growing uncertainty has prompted industry players to call on Thailand’s incoming government to adopt domestic tourism stimulus measures to offset potential losses from international markets. With the global situation remaining volatile, boosting local tourism could serve as an immediate solution to help stabilize the economy.
Local tourism promotions, particularly in less-visited provinces, may provide a much-needed boost to Thailand’s economy, helping to generate revenue during this unpredictable period. By focusing on promoting local cultural attractions, eco-tourism, and the country’s heritage, Thailand could still maintain strong tourism growth without relying solely on international visitors.
As an additional safeguard, Thailand’s tourism agencies and operators are urging the government to tighten security measures across airports and tourist destinations, reassuring travelers that their safety is a priority. This move would not only boost tourist confidence but also help maintain a positive image of Thailand as a safe and attractive destination.
Travelers planning a trip to Thailand in 2026 should prepare for some potential challenges related to the ongoing geopolitical situation. Here’s what they should know:
While the Iran conflict continues to cause upheaval in the global travel industry, it’s clear that Thailand’s tourism sector will need to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. By strengthening domestic tourism initiatives and ensuring that travelers are reassured about their safety, Thailand can potentially weather the storm and still meet its visitor targets for 2026. However, it’s clear that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East will have far-reaching implications for global tourism – and Thailand is no exception.
The post Iran Conflict Disrupts International Travel Routes to Thailand, Middle East and Europe: How Airspace Shutdowns and Higher Ticket Prices Could Derail 2026 Tourism Goals – Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
An extraordinary situation has unfolded in early 2026. Years of tourism investment across the Gulf Cooperation Council countries produced record growth: official data show over 72.2 million international tourists in 2024 and about US$120.2 billion in tourism revenue[1] supported by around 1.7 million workers[1]. In Saudi Arabia the number of tourism facilities reached 5 622 by the third quarter of 2025[2]. Such achievements signalled the region’s emergence as a travel hub. However, a sudden escalation between Iran and Gulf neighbours has shaken confidence. The GCC Ministerial Council reported that Iranian missiles and drones struck civilian facilities in multiple member states starting on 28 February 2026[3]. This crisis now threatens to undermine years of investment.
Before the conflict the Gulf enjoyed a tourism boom. The GCC Statistical Center recorded 72.2 million inbound tourists across the six countries in 2024, up 51.5 percent from 2019[1]. Revenue reached US$120.2 billion, a 39.6 percent increase over 2019[1], and the sector employed around 1.7 million workers with employment expanding 14.5 percent since 2019[1]. These workers included hundreds of thousands of nationals and expatriates, indicating broad labour participation. Saudi Arabia reported that hotel room occupancy averaged 49.1 percent in the third quarter of 2025 and that 5 622 tourism facilities were operating, an increase of 40.6 percent year‑on‑year[2]. Additional detail from the Saudi statistics showed that average stays were 4.1 nights and that the workforce included about 24.3 percent Saudi nationals, 75.7 percent non‑Saudi employees and 13.3 percent women[2]. Dubai’s tourism department recorded 5.31 million overnight visitors in the first quarter of 2025, up 3 percent[4]. Oman’s three‑ to five‑star hotels welcomed 1 895 159 guests by October 2025, generating revenues close to OMR 184 million and achieving occupancy of around 58 percent. These indicators illustrate how heavy investment in hotels, attractions and infrastructure diversified economies beyond hydrocarbons and created a sizeable labour market.
The Gulf states have long pursued joint tourism strategies. At the ninth GCC Ministers of Tourism meeting in Kuwait on 18 February 2025, ministers agreed to strengthen cooperation in promotion, infrastructure, training and statistics[5]. The agenda included plans for unified marketing campaigns, shared data platforms and joint tourism education programmes that would raise service standards across the region. A proposal for a unified tourist visa was also discussed to facilitate travel within the bloc, although implementation details remain under development. Later that year the ministers named Doha the GCC Tourism Capital 2026. A Qatar Tourism release highlighted that the designation was unanimously approved to promote cooperation and sustainable development[6]. Qatar’s advanced infrastructure, including the Hamad International Airport, an extensive airline network, a metro system and flexible visa policies, was cited as evidence of readiness[6]. The ministers expected the choice to stimulate investment and create opportunities for projects in other Gulf states[6]. The initiative aligned with diversification strategies and was expected to encourage private‑sector participation. This momentum, however, now faces a geopolitical test.
At the end of February 2026, the Gulf’s geopolitical balance was disrupted by Iranian missile and drone attacks. The GCC Ministerial Council convened an extraordinary meeting on 1 March 2026 to respond. The official statement said that missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles were launched at Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait, causing damage to civilian infrastructure and threatening lives[3]. It noted that the attacks spread fear among residents and visitors and risked escalation. Foreign ministers condemned the aggression and affirmed that any attack on one member would be considered an attack on all[7]. They emphasised solidarity and reserved the legal right to respond[7]. The statement also stressed the importance of protecting regional waterways and supply chains[7], highlighting that maritime routes carry energy supplies and goods vital to the global economy. By linking security to global trade, the council underscored that destabilisation could have worldwide repercussions. This episode marks a serious challenge for the Gulf tourism sector by undermining the confidence built through years of collaboration and investment.
The security crisis quickly triggered travel advisories and disrupted movements. On 1 March 2026 the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bhutan warned citizens to avoid the Middle East because airspace closures had stranded travellers[8]. Several countries had suspended flights, leaving passengers unable to return home[8]. Bhutanese nationals were told to postpone trips and rely on official updates[8]. The Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported on 2 March 2026 that regional conflict made travel unsafe and unpredictable[9]. Dutch authorities organised repatriation flights from Oman and estimated that about 1 000 Dutch travellers were stranded[10]. Travellers were advised to follow local guidance and register with consular services[10]. The U.S. Department of State maintained a Level 4 advisory for Iran in December 2025, citing terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping and detention risks[11]. The advisory stressed that no U.S. Embassy operates in Iran and that consular help is unavailable[11]. Such warnings highlight how geopolitics can disrupt tourism and underscore the role of government communication.
The conflict threatens to undermine decades of investment in Gulf tourism infrastructure. Billions have been spent on airports, hotels and attractions and the sector was gearing up for large events and global exhibitions. Saudi Arabia’s expansion of tourism facilities by 40.6 percent in the third quarter of 2025[2] shows how rapidly capacity has grown. Occupancy rates below 60 percent leave room for growth but also expose vulnerability: if travellers stay away, thousands of beds could remain empty and revenues may plummet. Oman’s hotels hosted 1 895 159 guests by October 2025, with revenues near OMR 184 million and occupancy around 58 percent, demonstrating reliance on steady visitor flows. Dubai’s 5.31 million overnight visitors in the first quarter of 2025[4] illustrate the city’s global appeal but also highlight exposure to disruption. Qatar’s Hamad International Airport and Doha Metro, central to the Tourism Capital 2026 initiative[6], face similar risks. Investor confidence could wane if the crisis persists, slowing diversification and affecting related sectors such as retail, aviation and real estate. The synergy between tourism and hospitality supply chains means that a decline in visitors could affect suppliers, event organisers and transport companies across the region. This risk underlines the importance of maintaining stability.
Despite the crisis the Gulf states have demonstrated resilience. The GCC Ministerial Council affirmed solidarity and the right to defend member states[7], reassuring investors and tourists. Governments activated emergency communication systems: on 3 March 2026 Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged citizens abroad to download an app and register details to facilitate contact[12] and advised those needing consular help to contact diplomatic missions[12]. Such measures support travellers and build confidence by ensuring that citizens can receive instructions quickly. Long‑term diversification plans are also central to resilience. The designation of Doha 2026 places sustainability and cultural tourism at the heart of development[6]. Saudi Arabia has invested in training programmes for hospitality workers and aims to increase the share of women in the tourism workforce[2]. The 2025 statistics showed that women already accounted for 13.3 percent of tourism employees[2], and further initiatives aim to raise this proportion. Human capital development and digital transformation projects are expected to improve service quality and efficiency, making the sector more adaptable. These initiatives, however, depend on de‑escalation and continued investment in safety, communication and capacity building.
| Category | Key incidents and data |
| Tourism growth and investments | 72.2 million tourists, US$120.2 billion revenue and 1.7 million workers in 2024[1]; 5 622 Saudi facilities with 49.1 percent occupancy[2]; 5.31 million Dubai visitors[4]; 1.9 million guests in Oman. |
| Regional cooperation | Ministers promoted integration in promotion, infrastructure and training[5]. Doha was chosen as the GCC Tourism Capital 2026 to highlight infrastructure and sustainability[6]. |
| Conflict and security threat | The GCC Ministerial Council condemned Iranian missile and drone attacks on member states and emphasised that an attack on one is an attack on all[3][7]. Protection of waterways and supply chains was stressed[7]. |
| Travel advisories and disruptions | Bhutan warned citizens to avoid the Middle East due to airspace closures[8]. The Netherlands repatriated stranded travellers and consulted partners[9][10]. The U.S. maintained a Level 4 advisory for Iran due to terrorism and detention risks[11]. |
| Resilience and emergency measures | The GCC affirmed solidarity and legal rights to respond[7]. Qatar’s foreign ministry encouraged citizens to register via a mobile app and contact missions[12]. Doha 2026 emphasises sustainable tourism[6]. |
| Investment vulnerability | Billions invested in hotels, airports and attractions could be at risk if occupancy falls; Saudi and Omani occupancy rates show capacity that may remain unused[2], deterring investors and slowing diversification. |
The Gulf region’s tourism sector has achieved spectacular growth through coordinated investment, modern infrastructure and unified strategies. Official data shows a massive expansion in visitor numbers, revenues and employment[1]. Yet this progress now faces an existential threat from the Iranian conflict. Missile and drone attacks on several Gulf states, condemned by the GCC Ministerial Council, have shaken confidence and prompted a wave of travel advisories[3]. Governments such as Bhutan, the Netherlands and the United States have warned citizens to avoid the region and have undertaken repatriation flights[8][10]. These disruptions expose the vulnerability of a sector reliant on stable geopolitics and highlight how tourism is entwined with security. The Gulf states’ response has emphasised solidarity, emergency communication and long‑term diversification. Diplomatic efforts, including engagement with Iran and international partners, will be critical to restoring stability. Continued investment in safety, workforce development and sustainable infrastructure remains essential. Whether the region can sustain its tourism boom amid insecurity will depend on effective diplomacy, the resilience of infrastructure and the capacity to adapt to shocks. The stakes are high: decades of effort to transform the Gulf into a global tourism hub are now balanced against a volatile security environment. Investors, governments and travellers will be watching closely as the region confronts this challenge, and the lessons learned may influence tourism strategies worldwide.
Sources:
[1] Tourism_statistics_20241.pdf
https://gccstat.org/images/gccstat/docman/publications/Tourism_statistics_20241.pdf
[2] GASTAT: Publishes Tourism Establishments Statistics for Q3 of 2025
https://www.stats.gov.sa/en/w/news/152
[3] [7] Statement Issued by the 50th Extraordinary Meeting of the Ministerial Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Regarding the Iranian Aggression Against the GCC
https://www.gcc-sg.org/en/MediaCenter/News/Pages/news2026-3-1-2.aspx
[4] Tourism Performance Report January – March 2025
https://www.dubaidet.gov.ae/en/research-and-insights/tourism-performance-report-march-2025
[5] Saudi Minister of Tourism Attends the 9th GCC Tourism Ministers Meeting in Kuwait
https://www.spa.gov.sa/en/N2264791
[6] Doha Named 2026 : GCC Tourism Capital | Qatar Tourism
https://www.qatartourism.com/en/news-and-media/press-releases/doha-named-2026—gcc-tourism-capital
[8] – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade
https://www.mfa.gov.bt/%F0%9D%90%93%F0%9D%90%91%F0%9D%90%80%F0%9D%90%95%F0%9D%90%84%F0%9D%90%8B-%F0%9D%90%80%F0%9D%90%83%F0%9D%90%95%F0%9D%90%88%F0%9D%90%92%F0%9D%90%8E%F0%9D%90%91%F0%9D%90%98/
[9] [10] Situation Middle East: updates from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs | Weblogs | Government.nl
https://www.government.nl/latest/weblogs/the-work-of-the-ministry-of-foreign-affairs/2026/situation-middle-east-news
[11] Iran Travel Advisory | Travel.State.gov
https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/iran.html
[12] Qatar news agency
https://qna.org.qa/en/news/news-details
Virgin Atlantic has officially launched its new mobile app, designed to bring a host of travel tools directly to passengers’ smartphones, enhancing the travel experience from booking to boarding. Available now on both iOS and Android, the app promises to simplify and streamline the journey for every traveler.
The Virgin Atlantic app serves as a personal travel companion, putting all essential features into the palm of your hand. From planning your trip to arriving at your destination, the app ensures a smoother, smarter journey. Passengers can now seamlessly search and book flights, select their preferred seats and meals, and even request special assistance—all from the app. The digital boarding pass feature further ensures a quicker, paper-free check-in experience.
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club members can take full advantage of the app’s integration with their account. The app provides easy access to track points, monitor tier progress, and manage rewards, all from one central location. The app is also designed with data security and accessibility in mind, ensuring that all passengers, regardless of their needs, can enjoy a seamless digital experience.
The mobile app is just the beginning of Virgin Atlantic’s ongoing digital transformation. In upcoming updates, the airline plans to integrate Virgin Atlantic Holidays into the platform. This exciting addition will allow travelers to book both flights and holiday packages through a single, streamlined app, making vacation planning more convenient than ever before.
The launch of the mobile app is a pivotal step in Virgin Atlantic’s larger digital transformation strategy. By blending cutting-edge technology with its renowned customer service, the airline is enhancing its reputation as an innovator in the aviation industry. The app’s launch solidifies the airline’s commitment to creating more personalized and accessible travel experiences for its passengers.
One of the standout features of the new Virgin Atlantic app is its integration with the AI-powered Virgin Atlantic Concierge. This innovative tool offers passengers personalized travel planning assistance, ensuring that every journey is tailored to individual preferences. Whether it’s adjusting travel plans, receiving recommendations for activities, or getting real-time assistance during delays, the Concierge function provides a seamless and supportive travel experience. This advanced feature positions Virgin Atlantic’s app as not just a booking tool, but as a trusted travel companion that anticipates and resolves needs, enhancing passenger satisfaction throughout their journey.
In a statement, Juha Jaervinen, Chief Customer Officer at Virgin Atlantic, expressed his excitement for the app’s release. He described it as a tool designed to make travel “simpler, smarter, and unmistakably Virgin Atlantic.” With an emphasis on ease, speed, and customer satisfaction, the app reinforces the airline’s dedication to providing a seamless travel experience from start to finish.
The introduction of Virgin Atlantic’s new mobile app marks a significant leap forward in enhancing the overall travel experience. By combining user-friendly features, AI-driven assistance, and seamless integration with the airline’s frequent flyer program, the app provides unparalleled convenience for both leisure and business travelers. Whether you’re booking your next flight, staying updated on travel changes, or managing your Flying Club rewards, this new app puts the world of Virgin Atlantic in your pocket.
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A powerful Saharan dust plume is set to sweep into Europe this week, bringing hazy skies, colorful sunrises, and occasional dust deposits to various regions. The plume, which will carry sand from North Africa, is expected to have a significant impact on Spain, Portugal, and parts of France, particularly by Friday, before it moves into the North Sea and Scandinavia. While the UK will also experience some effects, they will be much less noticeable, according to experts from the EU’s Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS).
As this phenomenon unfolds, travelers and residents in the affected areas should be prepared for potential disruptions to air quality, visibility, and, in some cases, transportation. The dust could also lead to “wet deposition” due to rainfall, further increasing the effects on air quality and visibility, especially in regions closest to the source of the dust.
The arrival of this Saharan dust plume is largely driven by a low-pressure system known as Storm Regina, which has been transporting dust directly from North Africa into Europe. Unlike previous dust events in February, this one is expected to be more intense and direct, with dust being blown straight from the Saharan desert into the Iberian Peninsula and the western Mediterranean. This system marks a particularly “remarkable” episode, according to Mark Parrington, a senior scientist at Copernicus.
The dust transport process, though fairly common during this time of year, is more prominent in this instance due to the strength of Storm Regina’s winds. These winds have helped push dust directly into the Mediterranean region, resulting in more visible effects, particularly at sunrise and sunset, with deeper orange hues painting the sky.
As the dust plume moves into Europe, Spain, Portugal, and southern France will experience the most pronounced effects. The impact on these regions will be most noticeable due to their proximity to the Saharan source. The dust will lead to hazy skies, reduced visibility, and a decrease in air quality, which could affect outdoor activities, particularly for those with respiratory issues.
For business travelers and tourists in Spain and Portugal, it is crucial to monitor air quality levels, especially in major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Lisbon, where the dust is expected to be most intense. Air quality could dip to levels that might disrupt outdoor events or sightseeing activities, and travelers should take extra precautions if they have any health conditions aggravated by poor air quality.
Saharan dust has the potential to affect air travel in regions where visibility is reduced, especially when landing and taking off. Previous dust events have disrupted air travel, and this one could have similar effects, particularly in regions with lower visibility. Travelers should stay informed about flight schedules and potential delays.
For those traveling through airports in Spain, Portugal, and southern France, it’s advisable to check flight statuses regularly for any potential delays or cancellations caused by low visibility. While flight disruptions are not guaranteed, it’s always best to plan ahead, especially if traveling to or from airports in the affected regions.
While Spain, Portugal, and France will be most affected by the Saharan dust plume, the impact will be more marginal as the plume moves northward toward the North Sea and Scandinavia. The dust will still affect the visibility and air quality, but to a much lesser degree. The United Kingdom could experience some dust, but the effects will be far more subtle, with less disruption to daily activities.
Travelers in northern Europe should be prepared for a lighter dusting, which may cause minor issues with air quality, but nothing as intense as what’s expected in the Iberian Peninsula. For those planning to visit these regions, the best advice is to monitor weather updates and air quality reports.
For tourists, the Saharan dust plume offers an opportunity to witness stunning sunrises and sunsets in Europe, with the sky painted in rich orange and red hues. However, this beauty comes with a cost—reduced visibility and possible health impacts due to the dust. Those with respiratory conditions or sensitivities to airborne particles should take precautions, such as wearing face masks and limiting outdoor activities.
Business travelers should also be aware that air travel could be disrupted, particularly in southern Europe. Those with tight schedules should stay updated on flight statuses and air quality reports. The haze and dust may also affect the perception of the destination, especially for those seeking clear skies for outdoor meetings or events.
While the Saharan dust plume may disrupt air travel and affect visibility, it also presents an opportunity to witness one of nature’s most striking spectacles in Europe. By staying informed and prepared, travelers can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience despite the challenges posed by this unique weather phenomenon.
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Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, on Wednesday extended warm greetings on the occasion of Holi, emphasising the festival’s enduring message of harmony, renewal and togetherness. In his message, he underlined the broader significance of the celebration, describing it as a moment that reflects the triumph of good over evil, the value of friendship and forgiveness, and the shared spirit of humanity.
His remarks acknowledged the importance of Holi for Australians of Hindu and South Asian heritage, while also recognising how the festival has become part of the wider multicultural fabric of the nation.
Holi, widely known as the Festival of Colours, carries deep cultural and spiritual meaning. In marking the occasion, Albanese drew attention to the festival’s universal themes, noting that it represents renewal, reconciliation and hope.
He highlighted that for many families across Australia, Holi is an opportunity to reconnect with shared history, heritage and tradition. At the same time, its core message—celebrating goodness, nurturing friendships and embracing forgiveness—resonates far beyond any single community.
The festival, he suggested, offers a symbolic chance for individuals and communities alike to renew their bonds and reaffirm their shared humanity.
The Prime Minister also reflected on how Holi has grown into a widely embraced celebration across Australia. Once observed primarily within the Indian and South Asian diaspora, the festival is now recognised as a vibrant and inclusive event in cities and towns nationwide.
From community gatherings in Canberra to large-scale celebrations in Sydney and Melbourne, Australians of diverse backgrounds participate in the colourful festivities each year. Public parks and cultural venues come alive with music, dance, traditional cuisine and the joyful exchange of coloured powders.
Albanese noted that this enthusiastic embrace of Holi reflects the broader Australian story—one shaped by migration, cultural exchange and mutual respect. The festival’s joyful expression of colour, love and new beginnings has become a highlight of the country’s multicultural calendar.
In his message, the Prime Minister underscored the broader importance of cultural celebrations in strengthening national unity. He pointed out that Australia benefits immensely from the beliefs, customs and experiences brought by people from around the world.
The contributions of the Indian Australian community, one of the country’s fastest-growing diaspora groups, were acknowledged as part of this wider narrative. Across sectors such as education, healthcare, technology and business, Indian Australians have played an increasingly prominent role in shaping modern Australia.
Holi, in this context, stands not only as a religious or cultural observance but also as a celebration of the values that underpin Australia’s multicultural identity—respect, inclusion and shared belonging.
Albanese expressed hope that the spirit of Holi would extend beyond the day’s celebrations. While the vibrant hues of gulal may fade, the deeper purpose of the festival—strengthening friendships and building communities—remains enduring.
He conveyed his wish that the occasion would inspire Australians to continue fostering understanding and unity long after the festivities conclude. The celebration, he indicated, serves as a reminder that diversity and shared identity can coexist harmoniously.
Earlier in the day, India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, also marked the occasion by extending greetings to citizens across the country.
Through a message shared on the social media platform X, Modi conveyed his good wishes for happiness, prosperity and success, expressing hope that the festival would bring joy and positivity to all.
His message echoed the festive spirit seen across India, where Holi is celebrated with exuberance in towns and cities alike. Communities gather to sing, dance, share sweets and take part in the traditional throwing of colours.
Holi is one of the most eagerly awaited Hindu festivals, symbolising the arrival of spring and the end of winter. Also known as Rangwali Holi, Badi Holi and Dhulandi in different regions, the festival represents renewal, vitality and the blossoming of new beginnings.
The celebrations traditionally begin with Holika Dahan, a ceremonial bonfire that signifies the victory of good over evil. The following day, known for its colourful festivities, sees people of all ages come together in open spaces to celebrate with music, dance and vibrant powders.
Over time, Holi has transcended geographical and cultural boundaries, evolving into a global celebration of joy and unity. In multicultural societies such as Australia, it stands as a vivid example of how traditions from around the world can find a welcoming home and enrich the broader community.
As leaders in both Canberra and New Delhi marked the festival, the shared emphasis remained clear: Holi is not only a celebration of colour, but also a reaffirmation of hope, harmony and collective renewal.
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Thailand, often associated with its bustling streets and pristine beaches, holds many treasures beyond its iconic tourist attractions. While most visitors flock to popular sites like the Grand Palace or Patong Beach, Thailand’s lesser-known corners offer an incredible blend of serenity, culture, and adventure. This article takes you beyond the typical tourist trail to explore the hidden gems of Bangkok and Krabi.
From quiet, culturally rich neighborhoods to eco-conscious luxury resorts nestled in nature’s embrace, Thailand provides an enriching travel experience that blends tradition with modernity. In Bangkok, areas like Thonburi offer a fascinating historical and cultural journey, while Krabi beckons adventure seekers and nature lovers with its stunning coastline and conservation-driven tourism.
Bangkok is renowned for its energetic pace and urban chaos. However, hidden within the city’s labyrinth are peaceful sanctuaries that remain largely untouched by the hustle and bustle. One such gem is the Khao Mor (Turtle Garden) in the Thonburi district. This tranquil retreat, established nearly 200 years ago, offers visitors a chance to connect with nature. The garden’s serene pond, lush plant life, and Buddhist stupas create a peaceful environment, making it an ideal escape from the city’s busy streets. The Turtle Garden is a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving pockets of nature amidst urban growth.
Just a short walk from this peaceful garden, Wat Prayun, an old temple that survived the ravages of time, offers a peek into Thailand’s rich history. The Lankan-style chedi, standing tall despite bombings and other threats, serves as a reminder of the city’s resilience. Visitors can also explore the nearby Guan Yu Shrine, one of Bangkok’s oldest Chinese shrines, where locals still perform ancient rituals to seek blessings for their businesses. This unique blend of cultural traditions offers travelers a rare insight into Bangkok’s multifaceted heritage.
For those seeking a luxury stay with an authentic twist, The Peninsula Bangkok offers an exquisite experience. Perched along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the hotel’s opulent rooms provide breathtaking views of the waterway and the city. However, what truly sets this hotel apart is its commitment to offering guests an immersive local experience.
The hotel’s Tak Bat Alms Giving Ceremony allows guests to partake in a centuries-old tradition. Here, food offerings are made to Buddhist monks, reflecting the spiritual side of Thai culture. The Peninsula also curates unique experiences, such as tea blending and floral design workshops, which provide travelers with an opportunity to connect with Thailand’s artistic heritage.
Travelers seeking adventure and relaxation will find Krabi to be a perfect getaway. Known for its stunning limestone cliffs, clear waters, and pristine beaches, Krabi offers both tranquil retreats and thrilling activities. One of the standout luxury resorts here is Rayavadee Krabi, which blends seamlessly into the natural landscape of the region. Situated amidst coconut groves, the resort’s mushroom-topped pavilions and earthy tones complement the environment, offering a harmonious escape.
What makes Rayavadee truly special is its commitment to conservation tourism. The resort is part of a broader community effort to protect the natural beauty of Railay Beach and its surrounding areas. All beaches remain open to the public, ensuring that both locals and visitors can enjoy the stunning natural environment while respecting its preservation.
No trip to Krabi is complete without visiting The Grotto, Rayavadee’s signature restaurant. Set inside a natural cave, this Mediterranean-inspired dining venue offers stunning views of the Phranang Beach and the Andaman Sea. Guests dine on locally sourced delicacies, with the restaurant’s open-air design providing a perfect spot to witness a mesmerizing sunset. The blend of natural beauty and culinary excellence makes The Grotto a must-visit for those seeking an unforgettable dining experience.
Krabi’s clear, turquoise waters and white sand beaches are ideal for island hopping. Ko Poda, known for its crystal-clear waters, offers an excellent spot for swimming and snorkeling, where travelers can explore the vibrant underwater life. Similarly, Chicken Island, with its iconic rock formation resembling a chicken’s head, provides an intriguing spot for photos and relaxation. For those looking for a quirky experience, the phenomenon of Thale Waek — where low tide reveals a sandbar connecting three islands — is an absolute must-see.
Beyond its serene beaches, Krabi is a hub for adrenaline junkies. Railay Beach is famous for its limestone cliffs that attract rock climbers from all over the world. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a beginner, Railay offers a range of climbing routes suitable for all levels. The scenic views from the top of these cliffs make the experience even more rewarding.
Thailand’s Bangkok and Krabi present a unique combination of cultural richness, serene landscapes, and adventurous activities. From the tranquil corners of Thonburi to the rugged beauty of Krabi’s islands, travelers can find experiences that are as authentic as they are exhilarating. Whether you’re seeking luxury, local experiences, or an adventure in nature, these destinations offer something for every kind of traveler.
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Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains are gaining recognition as one of Africa’s top adventure tourism destinations, thanks in part to significant investments in safety and rescue training for park staff. The Rwenzori Mountains National Park, known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” is seeing a surge in visitors as enhanced safety standards build confidence in both local and international travelers. This development represents a key milestone in Uganda’s growing appeal as a premier location for mountaineering and adventure travel.
In recent months, the Uganda Tourism Authority has made strides in improving safety protocols within the Rwenzori Mountains National Park. The launch of a specialised Training of Trainers programme has played a pivotal role in equipping key personnel — including tour guides, rangers, porters, and cooks — with advanced skills. The aim is to ensure at least one thousand frontline workers are trained to handle safety and medical emergencies during mountain expeditions.
The curriculum provided participants with internationally recognised skills, including Leave No Trace outdoor ethics, which promotes responsible interactions with the natural environment, and Wilderness Advanced First Aid. Additionally, staff received training in life-saving Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) techniques. These competencies are crucial for managing medical emergencies in a challenging environment like the Rwenzori Mountains, where visitors are exposed to unpredictable weather and rugged terrain.
With these enhanced capabilities, park staff can provide immediate and professional assistance in emergencies, improving the overall safety and experience for trekkers. This initiative not only strengthens the park’s appeal but also highlights Uganda’s commitment to creating a secure environment for adventure tourism.
The Rwenzori Mountains offer a unique trekking experience that attracts seasoned mountaineers and adventure seekers. The mountains feature snow-capped peaks that rise dramatically near the equator, creating landscapes that are unparalleled on the African continent. The park’s distinctive alpine vegetation, including giant lobelias and groundsels, is another highlight, making it an even more appealing destination for nature enthusiasts.
The recent surge in visitors to the Rwenzori Mountains demonstrates the growing interest in adventure travel across Africa. During the 2023-2024 financial year, the park welcomed 7,703 visitors, a figure that rose sharply to 10,483 in the following year. This 36% increase in visitor numbers can be attributed to several factors, including improved marketing efforts, upgraded infrastructure, and, importantly, the new safety protocols that inspire greater confidence among international trekkers.
Europe, North America, and Asia remain key source markets for the park’s visitors, with many of them seeking authentic, challenging wilderness experiences. The steady rise in international arrivals reflects a broader trend in the tourism industry, where more travellers are prioritising destinations that offer both adventure and robust safety measures.
For African travel professionals, the Rwenzori Mountains’ recent success highlights the importance of safety in promoting adventure destinations. As international tourists continue to seek mountaineering and trekking experiences in remote areas, destinations that invest in safety training and infrastructure will be able to position themselves as attractive alternatives to established international trekking spots.
The investment in safety standards in Uganda’s tourism sector is already paying off, with a significant increase in visitor satisfaction and repeat bookings. Furthermore, it aligns with the growing demand for adventure tourism that is both exciting and secure. When adventure travelers choose their destinations, safety is often one of the most important factors, particularly when exploring rugged and high-altitude terrains like the Rwenzori Mountains.
The rise in visitor numbers to the Rwenzori Mountains has had a positive impact on Uganda’s economy. Increased tourism spending is supporting local businesses, from accommodations and restaurants to tour operators and equipment providers. With the number of visitors climbing steadily, Uganda has seen growth in both job creation and local investment. Many of the newly trained staff members are gaining new employment opportunities, further contributing to the region’s economic development.
Moreover, the enhanced safety protocols are likely to attract more high-value visitors who are looking for authentic adventure experiences in a secure setting. For African tourism operators, the success story of the Rwenzori Mountains offers valuable insights into the importance of investing in training, safety, and infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of adventure travelers.
Uganda’s strategy of combining natural attractions with professional safety training can serve as a model for other African nations looking to grow their adventure tourism sectors. Destinations like Tanzania, Kenya, and Zambia that offer trekking, mountaineering, or wildlife safaris can benefit from similar investments in safety standards. By developing high-quality, secure experiences, African countries can compete with international adventure hubs like Nepal and Peru.
Looking forward, Uganda plans to continue expanding its tourism offerings in the Rwenzori region. Additional investments in infrastructure, including better trails, accommodation, and transportation options, will make the Rwenzori Mountains even more accessible and attractive to international travelers. The combination of rugged natural beauty, unique biodiversity, and professionally trained staff will ensure that Uganda remains a premier adventure tourism destination in Africa.
The Rwenzori Mountains are quickly becoming a top-tier adventure destination in Africa, thanks to significant investments in safety training and infrastructure. The recent surge in visitor numbers is a testament to Uganda’s commitment to providing an exceptional, secure experience for trekkers and adventure seekers.
For travel professionals, promoting the Rwenzori Mountains to clients seeking authentic adventure in a safe environment is now more viable than ever. As visitor numbers continue to rise and safety standards improve, Uganda’s adventure tourism sector is poised for continued growth, attracting travelers from around the globe who are eager to explore one of Africa’s most captivating landscapes.
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Sicily’s tourism sector has seen an unprecedented response to its recent call for investments, with over €1 billion in applications submitted by various stakeholders. This impressive figure reflects the growing interest in the tourism industry on the island, particularly in the accommodation sector. The Irfis FinSicilia received 2,713 applications by the end of February, marking a new milestone in Sicily’s tourism development efforts. While the actual financial availability for the program is €135 million, the large volume of applications demonstrates the high demand for support and the sector’s eagerness to improve and expand its offerings.
The applications for funding are part of a broader initiative to support tourism through the 2021-2027 Development and Cohesion Fund. The call has sparked significant interest from various players in the tourism industry, ranging from small enterprises to larger businesses. With such a high volume of applications, the island’s tourism sector is positioned to see substantial investments aimed at enhancing the quality and sustainability of its tourism infrastructure.
The figures presented in the call for applications show a clear gap between the demand for funding and the resources available. A total of €474 million was requested under the ‘de minimis’ regime, while €624 million was requested under the ‘exemption’ regime. The €135 million available is set to be allocated through a ranking process, where projects will be evaluated based on specific criteria. The subsidies, which include non-repayable funds, will range from €50,000 to €3.5 million per project, depending on the type of intervention and the scale of the investment.
The high demand for funding shows that there is a clear commitment within the Sicilian hospitality sector to improve facilities, expand offerings, and renovate existing accommodations. This level of interest reflects the sector’s strategic importance for the island’s economy, particularly in the wake of the challenges faced by the tourism industry globally. The gap between requested and available resources, however, will necessitate a careful evaluation process to ensure that the most impactful projects are prioritized.
The call for applications is open to a wide range of businesses in the tourism sector, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, hostels, campsites, tourist villages, and holiday homes. The funding is designed to support businesses of all sizes, from micro enterprises to larger players in the industry. This inclusivity ensures that businesses throughout Sicily can benefit from the initiative, provided they meet the necessary criteria.
The funding can be used for a variety of interventions, such as renovations, expansions, or the reactivation of existing structures. Additionally, the recovery or conversion of buildings for new tourism-related activities is also eligible for funding. This approach not only aims to improve the quality of the existing tourism offer but also encourages regeneration and sustainable development by repurposing unused or underutilized properties.
An important element of the funding is its focus on sustainability. The call specifically states that investments must adhere to local building codes and regulations, with no increase in cubage allowed beyond what is permitted by current planning laws. This focus on territorial sustainability is crucial for a region like Sicily, where much of the economy is reliant on the preservation of its landscapes, coastline, and historic centers.
One of the key aspects of this funding opportunity is its time constraint. After receiving financial support, businesses will have 24 months to complete the proposed interventions. This timeline adds an element of urgency to the projects, as businesses must quickly transform their applications into tangible developments. The NRC’s focus will likely fall on the speed and quality of the projects, with the goal of creating competitive structures that enhance Sicily’s tourism appeal.
This two-year window for implementing funded projects will test the ability of businesses to turn their applications into actionable results. The future success of these initiatives will depend not only on the initial quality of the projects but also on how effectively they can be carried out within the given timeframe. For many businesses, the pressure to execute within this period may serve as a driving force for improvement and innovation in the Sicilian hospitality sector.
The announcement of this funding program has received strong backing from Sicilian authorities, who see tourism as a key sector for economic diversification. Renato Schifani, the President of the Sicilian Region, emphasized the strategic importance of tourism in the regional economy, noting that the response to the funding call demonstrates the widespread interest in improving the island’s offerings. Schifani expressed his commitment to supporting the growth of Sicily’s tourism sector and underscored the government’s role in facilitating investments that will generate long-term economic benefits for the island.
This political support is critical, as it aligns with broader efforts to diversify Sicily’s economy, reducing reliance on more traditional industries like agriculture and fishing. Tourism has been identified as a vital engine for economic growth, and the government’s support in funding development projects further solidifies its commitment to fostering a strong, sustainable tourism sector.
As Sicily moves forward with these initiatives, the island’s tourism sector is on track for substantial growth. While the €135 million available in the current funding cycle may be insufficient to meet the demand for investment, the high level of interest in the program signals a robust commitment to enhancing Sicily’s tourism infrastructure.
Looking ahead, the island’s tourism development efforts will focus on fostering sustainability, improving the quality of the visitor experience, and ensuring that tourism growth benefits all regions of the island. By focusing on innovation and territorial sustainability, Sicily can create a more resilient and diversified tourism sector that will continue to attract international visitors for years to come.
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The Asia Pacific (APAC) travel market is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, and its projected growth to $522.7 billion in gross bookings by 2028 underscores the region’s pivotal role in the global tourism industry. The allure of APAC destinations continues to rise, driven by the increasing purchasing power and evolving travel habits of regional travelers. As the travel sector adapts to these trends, operators like us are crafting customized itineraries that blend flexibility, authentic experiences, and value for money, catering to couples, solo travelers, and families alike.
One of the most notable changes in the travel behavior of APAC tourists is the growing preference for booking during peak seasons, albeit within shorter windows. Many travelers now seek flexible options, such as refundable tickets or the ability to modify flight dates, often referred to as “fly-as-you-wish” flights. This shift is particularly evident among Chinese travelers, who now embrace last-minute bookings and opt for weekend getaways that offer the possibility of spontaneous changes.
This evolving mindset places a premium on authentic, meaningful travel moments rather than rigidly fixed itineraries. Tour operators, including ourselves, have quickly adapted by incorporating these behavioral changes into our offerings. We provide seamless flexibility through fintech-enabled booking systems, allowing travelers to adjust their plans effortlessly, ensuring they can savor the full experience without unnecessary stress.
As travel demand increases across APAC, we see significant growth in a few key segments of the traveler population. The first notable trend is the rising demand for couples trips. Travelers from countries such as China, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, and Vietnam are flocking to intimate destinations, looking for escapes that foster connections and memorable experiences. These trips typically focus on serene, romantic getaways, ideal for couples looking to bond in peaceful settings.
Another trend driving growth is the surge in solo female travelers. Post-pandemic, younger women in the region are increasingly channeling their disposable income into independent adventures, a trend that is now embraced socially. This change has given rise to solo travelers seeking not just relaxation but exploration in unique, offbeat locations. We’ve tailored our itineraries to highlight experiential destinations that offer both adventure and cultural immersion, catering to the growing demand for solo travel.
The year 2025 saw Japan drawing 42.7 million international visitors, cementing its position as one of the top APAC destinations. However, tensions between China and Japan have led to a slight dip in the number of Chinese visitors in 2026. Despite this, Japan remains a popular choice for travelers seeking cultural experiences, with cities like Tokyo and Kyoto offering a rich historical and cultural backdrop.
Inbound travel to China is experiencing a revival, especially due to the country’s ease in issuing visas. This has led to increased travel from Southeast Asia, providing a unique opportunity for tour operators to promote “soft power” themed tours that highlight China’s historical and cultural allure. With the growing demand for multi-destination tours, we are curating itineraries that seamlessly connect destinations in Southeast Asia with key Chinese cities.
India’s outbound travel is on an upward trajectory, particularly to long-haul destinations in North Asia and Europe. Projections suggest that by 2040, India’s outbound travel market will be a major force. This insight guides us as we develop premium travel extensions from Southeast Asia, designed for the Indian market’s increasing appetite for global exploration.
Domestic travel within APAC is experiencing a significant surge in 2026. In particular, 35% of APAC travelers are now choosing local destinations over international ones, with countries like Japan and Thailand reporting an intent of up to two-thirds of their population planning domestic trips. Thailand, for instance, is expecting 210 million domestic trips in 2026, a testament to the growing interest in exploring homegrown destinations.
China is also witnessing historic highs in domestic travel, thanks to the rise of high-speed rail, which has opened up rural gems to tourists who previously might have overlooked these areas. In response, we’ve developed customized domestic packages that leverage the booming middle class and enhanced connectivity between cities, offering unique rail-and-fly combinations that deliver exceptional value.
In line with the preference for affordable yet comfortable travel, value accommodations remain a staple of our tour offerings. In fact, 73% of APAC travelers prioritize accommodation options that cost under $100 per night. For nearly 39% of our guests, the cost takes precedence over location, and they are happy to sacrifice proximity to main tourist areas in exchange for savings.
Popular destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia are home to budget-friendly hotels priced between $40 and $70 per night, offering excellent value for money. These establishments typically include amenities such as Wi-Fi, breakfast, and swimming pools, ensuring guests receive a comfortable stay without stretching their budgets. Our partnerships with booking platforms like Agoda and OTAs help travelers secure these affordable options in both major cities and lesser-known locales.
For travelers seeking authentic experiences beyond the crowded tourist spots, we book 3–4-star hotels in secondary cities like Pattaya, Thailand, or Bandung, Indonesia. These areas offer local charm, and our guests benefit from the personal and immersive experiences that these places provide, all while maintaining a budget-conscious approach.
Despite rising living costs and higher airfare prices in the region, the APAC travel market is expected to continue growing, albeit at a slower rate. The growth trajectory closely follows the region’s GDP performance, and while low-cost carriers (LCCs) now comprise over 50% of flights in Southeast Asia, operators like us are adapting by providing flexible, value-oriented travel experiences.
Looking ahead to 2026, we are offering dynamic itineraries that cater to diverse budget ranges. Our forward-thinking approach enables travelers to book early for the best deals, with tailored options designed to meet country-specific preferences. For instance, our budget-friendly tours to India cater to travelers seeking experiences under $50, while we offer more premium options for Thailand, with packages that go up to $100 per night.
As the travel landscape in APAC evolves, so do the needs and preferences of its travelers. By staying attuned to emerging trends, offering flexible options, and providing immersive, authentic experiences, we continue to tailor our offerings to meet the demands of this dynamic market. The future of travel in the Asia Pacific region is bright, and we’re here to ensure that our clients make the most of it, whether they’re exploring the depths of Southeast Asia, the cultural riches of China and Japan, or the evolving domestic offerings within their own countries.
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London City Airport is asking for feedback from local residents and stakeholders on its new airspace change proposal. The proposal, which could result in fewer flights and quieter operations, is designed to allow larger, more fuel-efficient aircraft to use a slightly shallower landing approach. The consultation marks an important step in the airport’s long-term plans for growth and sustainability.
The proposed changes, if approved, would allow certain next-generation aircraft, like the Airbus A320neo, to land using a 4.49-degree approach. This is a less steep angle compared to the current 5.5-degree descent. While the plan is intended to reduce the number of flights, the airport assures that the new approach will lead to a reduction in noise pollution while still supporting the airport’s capacity to handle up to nine million passengers per year.
The proposal from London City Airport would only affect the final few kilometers of an aircraft’s descent, specifically during the landing phase. The plan aims to reduce noise exposure for residents living nearby without altering current flight paths. Departures will remain unchanged, and the new approach will apply to larger, quieter, and more fuel-efficient aircraft, which include models like the Airbus A320neo.
This change could result in up to 76,500 fewer flights over the next 12 years when compared to a scenario where no changes are made. The reduction in flights would help alleviate the pressure on local communities, decreasing noise exposure for over 110,000 people and lowering early morning disturbances for about 10,000 residents.
London City Airport recognizes the importance of engaging with the local community and residents before proceeding with any changes. The consultation is part of the airport’s commitment to making its operations more sustainable and considerate of local residents. The proposal is designed to improve the living conditions for people living near the airport while allowing the airport to grow and accommodate more passengers.
The airport’s chief executive has emphasized that the changes would help grow the airport sustainably, which would not only benefit passengers but also bring economic advantages, such as the creation of up to 4,000 new jobs. These jobs would be created through the growth of new routes and airlines, further boosting the local economy.
In addition, the changes are expected to generate environmental benefits. A reduction of 76,500 flights over the next 12 years would significantly lower fuel consumption, with savings of up to 5,780 tonnes of fuel. This reduction would align with the broader goals of sustainability that London City Airport is working towards.
For business travelers and tourists flying in and out of London City Airport, the changes could have several benefits. By allowing larger and more efficient aircraft to operate, the airport will be able to handle a higher number of passengers more sustainably. While the number of flights could be reduced, the overall quality of the air travel experience will improve as quieter and more efficient planes are introduced.
Tourists can expect less noise when traveling to or from London City Airport, particularly when flying in or out of the airport during the night. This will make the journey more pleasant for travelers who are sensitive to noise. Additionally, the potential introduction of new airlines and routes will offer more travel options for leisure travelers, especially for those looking to visit new and exciting destinations.
One of the most significant benefits of the proposed airspace change is the potential reduction in noise pollution. London City Airport has emphasized that the new approach would help reduce the number of people exposed to excessive noise from aircraft. By using quieter aircraft and reducing the steepness of descents, the airport aims to create a more harmonious relationship between its operations and the local communities.
The reduction in flight numbers, combined with the introduction of quieter, more fuel-efficient aircraft, would also have a positive impact on the environment. With lower fuel consumption, the airport will contribute to fewer carbon emissions, supporting the broader goal of sustainability in the aviation industry.
BCP Council has made it easy for East Londoners to provide their feedback on the proposal. The public consultation is now open, and local residents, passengers, and stakeholders are encouraged to participate. Feedback can be provided online through the London City Airport website, where the full details of the consultation are available.
For those who prefer to view the details in person or discuss the proposal further, appointments are available at the Customer Contact Centre on St Stephen’s Road in East London. The consultation period is open until [consultation end date].
These changes at London City Airport aim to strike a balance between accommodating growth and reducing the environmental and social impact of its operations. With community input at the forefront, this new airspace proposal could lead to a quieter, greener, and more efficient airport experience for both residents and travelers alike.
Quick Tips for Residents and Travelers:
Galaxy S26 Ultra preorders are outpacing everything Samsung has launched before, and by a margin that has the company’s Korea chief casually dropping Guinness references at MWC.
Im Sung-taek, Samsung Electronics Korea’s executive VP, told SK Telecom’s president in Barcelona that Galaxy S26 series preorders are up roughly 15% compared to the S25 launch; the Ultra variant accounts for 70% of that lift.
“This may well be a Guinness,” Im said (via ETNews), which is either confidence or a very blunt admission that Samsung has finally cracked the premium conversion problem it’s chased for years.
The Galaxy S25 series hit about 1.3 million pre-orders last year, a record at the time. Simple arithmetic puts the S26 somewhere around 1.5 million units, and that’s with two days still left in the pre-sale window.
Ultra is eating everything
Here’s the thing: 70% of that 15% bump is Ultra. Samsung’s premium push is succeeding, but it’s succeeding narrowly. The base S26 and S26 Plus aren’t lighting fires, but filling shelf space while Ultra does the heavy lift.
Im Sung-taek, Executive Vice President and Head of Samsung Electronics Korea, met with SK Telecom President Jeong Jae-heon at MWC 2026 in Barcelona, Spain, and stated:
“Galaxy S26 series sales have increased approximately 15% compared to the previous model, with the Ultra model accounting for 70% of that figure.” He added, “This may well be a Guinness [world record].”
Privacy Display
Galaxy S26 Ultra is the world’s first smartphone equipped with Privacy Display, a feature that adjusts visibility based on who’s looking at the screen.
Mobile Agentic AI
Mobile Agentic AI, Samsung’s latest branding exercise for what used to just be called “AI stuff.” This time, the company claims it’s meaningfully more useful in everyday scenarios, not just demos.
The post Samsung talks ‘Guinness Record’ as Galaxy S26 approaches 1.5 million preorders appeared first on Sammy Fans.
"Hayalim Galatasaray" dedi, Fenerbahçe'nin Domenico Tedesco ile görüşme teklifini bile geri çevirdi! Sarı-kırmızılıların yeni transferi Can Armando Güner, 18 yaşına girer girmez imzayı attı. Mavi kartla Türk statüsünde oynayan genç yıldız için asıl kritik süreç ise Milli Takım tercihiyle başlayacak.
Galatasaray’ın transferi için büyük uğraş verdiği genç yetenek Can Armando Güner, sarı-kırmızılı formayla ilk resmi maçına Türkiye Kupası’ndaki Alanyaspor karşılaşmasında çıktı. 18 yaşına girmesinin ardından lisansı çıkarılan genç yıldız, sergilediği performans ve maç sonu açıklamalarıyla taraftarın sevgisini kazandı.
Maçın ardından duygularını paylaşan Can Armando, çocukluk hayallerine kavuştuğunu belirterek şu ifadeleri kullandı:
- Hayallerim gerçek oldu diyebilirim. Bu inanılmaz kulübün formasını giyerek ilk maçıma çıktım. Her zaman bu günün hayalini kurdum ama bu sadece ilk adım. Asıl yolculuk şimdi başlıyor, çalışmaya devam edeceğim.
Maç sonunda genç oyuncularına parantez açan teknik direktör Okan Buruk, taraftarların heyecanını paylaştı:
- Taraftarlarımızın görmek istediği Nhaga ve Asprilla gibi gençlerimiz var. Can Armando'yu da bundan sonraki süreçte daha fazla değerlendirebiliriz.
Can Armando Güner’in Galatasaray’a imza atma süreci tam bir sadakat hikayesiydi. Transfer döneminde ezeli rakip Fenerbahçe’nin de oyuncuyla yakından ilgilendiği, hatta Tedesco ile bir görüşme teklif edildiği öğrenildi.
Ancak genç oyuncunun cevabı net oldu. "Hayalim Galatasaray, ben Galatasaraylıyım." diyerek tüm teklifleri elinin tersiyle itti.
Galatasaray yönetimi, transfer sürecinde stratejik bir duruş sergiledi. İlk etapta anlaşılan rakamlar medyaya sızınca karşı tarafın talepleri değişse de, yönetim "İstediğimiz rakam olmazsa vazgeçeriz" diyerek geri adım atmadı ve transferi bitirdi.
7 Ocak’ta 18 yaşına girmesiyle birlikte Türkiye Cumhuriyeti kimlik ve mavi kart işlemleri tamamlanan oyuncu, şu anda Türk statüsünde forma giyiyor. Can Armando her ne kadar şu an yerli statüsünde oynasa da, gelecekte Almanya veya Arjantin A Milli Takımlarını tercih etmesi durumunda, kurallar gereği Süper Lig'de yabancı statüsüne geçecek.
Alanyaspor engelini as oyuncularından yoksun geçerek gövde gösterisi yapan Galatasaray'da teknik direktör Okan Buruk, Beşiktaş ve Liverpool öncesi 'aktif dinlendirme' formülünü devreye soktu; yıldız isimleri riske etmeyen sarı-kırmızılılar, dev derbiye yüzde 100 atletik performans ve 'kazanma geni' vurgusuyla hazırlanıyor.
Alanyaspor engelini hem ligde hem de kupada as oyuncularından yoksun bir kadroyla aşmayı başaran Galatasaray, rotayı tamamen Beşiktaş derbisine kırdı. Teknik direktör Okan Buruk, yoğun fikstür içerisinde takımı hem fiziksel hem de zihinsel olarak taze tutmak adına kapsamlı bir "aktif dinlendirme" programını devreye soktu.
Okan Buruk’un pek çok as oyuncusunu deplasman kafilesine dahil etmemesi, teknik açıdan bir "risk yönetimi" başarısı olarak değerlendiriliyor. Uğurcan Çakır, Davinson Sanchez, Abdülkerim Bardakcı, Victor Osimhen ve Mario Lemina gibi omurga oyuncuların İstanbul’da özel çalışmalara alınması, takımın derbi ve sonrasındaki Liverpool müsabakasına yüzde 100 atletik performansla çıkmasını hedefliyor.
Hafif ağrıları bulunan Roland Sallai, Yunus Akgün ve Mauro Icardi’nin kadroya alınmaması, teknik heyetin "sıfır risk" politikasını uyguladığını gösteriyor. Teknik ekip, bu oyuncuların kronikleşebilecek sakatlıklarını önleyerek derbi öncesi kadro derinliğini korumayı başardı.
Okan Buruk’un açıklamaları, Galatasaray’ın derbi taktiğine dair önemli ipuçları veriyor. Buruk’un "Galatasaray'ın genlerinde olan kazanma hırsı" vurgusu, takımın büyük maçlardaki reaksiyon verme becerisine olan güvenini simgeliyor.
Beşiktaş’ın yeni transferlerle artan form grafiğine ve yükselen motivasyonuna dikkat çeken Buruk, rakibin fiziksel direncine aynı sertlikte yanıt verecek bir kurgu hazırlıyor.
Okan Buruk’un maç sonunda, "Beşiktaş bize karşı en iyi haliyle hazırlanmış durumda. Performanslarının yükseldiğinin farkındayız. Ancak Galatasaray her maçı kazanmak için sahaya çıkar. Hedefimiz önce Beşiktaş, sonra Liverpool" diyerek hem derbi hem de Şampiyonlar Ligi'ne hazır olduklarını gösterdi.
Galatasaray'ın genç yıldız adayı Renato Nhaga, sarı-kırmızılı formayla ilk golünü atarak taraftarın gönlünü çaldı. Genç oyuncu, sergilediği performansla sadece skora katkı yapmadı, aynı zamanda yüksek oyun zekasıyla gerçek bir "yıldız adayı" olduğunu kanıtladı.
Galatasaray’ın 18 yaşındaki yıldız adayı Renato Nhaga, sarı-kırmızılı formayla ilk golünü atarak taraftarın gönlünü çaldı. Genç oyuncu, sergilediği performansla sadece skora katkı yapmadı, aynı zamanda oyun zekasıyla "yıldız adayı" sinyallerini verdi.
Nhaga’nın attığı gol kadar, gol sonrası yaptığı sevinç de gündem oldu. Dünyaca ünlü anime serisi Attack on Titan'ın başkarakteri Eren Yeager’ın ikonik duruşunu sergileyen genç oyuncu, sosyal medyada kısa sürede viral oldu.
Maç sonunda duygularını paylaşan Renato Nhaga, büyük bir kulübe gelmenin sorumluluğunu taşıdığını belirtti:
- Çok mutluyum... Bu sıradan bir his değil, gerçekten özel bir his. Çok büyük bir kulübe geldim, bunun bilinciyle her gün çalışmaya devam ediyorum.
Genç yıldız, taraftara olan sevgisini ise Türkçe konuşarak gösterdi:
- Teşekkürler. Haydi Gala...
Soyunma odasında da kendisini kısa sürede sevdiğer Nhaga'ya, takımın tecrübeli ismi Lucas Torreira'dan sempatik bir lakap geldi. Torreira, genç yeteneğe Brezilya usulü "Renatinho" diyerek seslenmeye başladı.
Nhaga'nın 18 yaşında olmasına rağmen sergilediği "ölçülü özgüvene" dikkat çekiyor. Attığı goldeki vuruş kalitesi sınıfı geçti. Barış Alper Yılmaz’a attığı ara pası, oyun görüşünün ne kadar yüksek olduğunu kanıtladı.
Dönerken attığı çalımlar ve takıma kazandırdığı tempo, "top ayağındayken çok etkili" yorumlarını beraberinde getirdi.
Genç oyuncu, maçın ardından yaptığı sosyal medya paylaşımında ise başarısını şu sözlerle kutladı:
- Tanrı’ya şükür. Bu formayla attığım ilk gol için çok mutluyum. +3 puan. Desteğiniz için teşekkür ederim.
Galatasaray, UEFA ile ceza diplomasisi yürüterek 'erteleme' sözüyle Liverpool deplasmanına taraftar götürmeye hazırlanıyor. Ada'da 'Aslan' laneti hortladı. Şampiyonlar Ligi randevusu öncesi lig sonuncusuna yenilen Liverpool'da Arne Slot için istifa sesleri yükseliyor!
UEFA, Juventus maçında yaşanan olaylar nedeniyle Galatasaray’a 40 bin euro para cezası ve Liverpool deplasmanı için seyircisiz oynama cezası verdi. Ancak sarı-kırmızılı yönetim hemen harekete geçti.
UEFA ile temas kuran Galatasaray, bu cezanın "tekrarı halinde uygulanmak üzere" ertelenmeli bir cezaya dönüştürülmesi için görüşmelerini sürdürüyor.
Liverpool, Şampiyonlar Ligi’ndeki kritik randevu öncesinde lig sonuncusu Wolverhampton’a 2-1 mağlup olarak büyük bir şok yaşadı. Bu sonuçla 3 maçlık galibiyet serisi sona eren İngiliz devi için bu tablo oldukça tanıdık.
TARİH TEKRAR ETTİ
Liverpool, daha önce Galatasaray’a yenildiği Şampiyonlar Ligi maçı öncesinde de ligde Crystal Palace’a 2-1 kaybetmişti. Yine bir Galatasaray maçı öncesi, yine bir 2-1’lik mağlubiyetle sarsıldılar.
Wolves mağlubiyeti bardağı taşırdı. Sosyal medyada kampanya başlatan Liverpool taraftarları, teknik direktör Arne Slot için istifa tweetleri atarak yönetime baskı yapmaya başladı.
Bu arada BBC Liverpool Muhabiri Aadam Patel, İngiltere’deki atmosferi şu sözlerle özetledi:
- Kimse ilk maçı unutabilmiş değil. Galatasaray, lig aşamasındaki performansıyla sadece puan değil, Liverpool’un saygısını da kazandı.
“Barselona”nın 18 yaşlı ispaniyalı ulduzu, sağ cinah hücumçusu Lamin Yamal pubalgiyadan daha əziyyət çəkmədiyini bildirib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, gənc futbolçu ağrısız oynadığını və xoşbəxt olduğunu bildirib:
“Daha pubalgiyadan əziyyət çəkmirəm. Onda xoşbəxt deyildim, indi isə futboldan yenə zövq alıram”, deyə Yamal vurğulayıb.
Qeyd edək ki, Yamal cari mövsümdə tərəqqisinə davam edir. O, “blauqrana”nın son 12 oyununda 9 qol vurub və 4 məhsuldar ötürmə verib.
Əlavə edəki, müvafiq səviyyədə uğurlu çıxışı, gənc futbolçunun mövsümün “Qızıl top” mükafatına iddiasını artırır.
Xatırladaq ki, Lamin Yamal “Barselona”nın məzunudur. İstedadlı gənc 2022/2023-cü illər mövsümündən Kataloniya təmsilçisinin əsas komandasında çıxış edir. Yamalın “Barselona” ilə müqaviləsinin müddəti 2031-ci ilin iyun ayının sonuna qədər qüvvədədir.
Yamal cari mövsümdə “blauqrana”nın heyətində 35 oyuna çıxıb. O, bu oyunlarda 18 qol və 15 məhsuldar ötürmə ilə fərqlənib.
Lamin Yamalın “Barselona”da çıxışının ümumi mənzərəsi 141 oyun, 43 qol və 49 məhsuldar ötürmədən ibarətdir.
Yamal 2023-cü ilin sentyabr ayında debüt etdiyi İspaniya yığma komandasının heyətində 23 oyun keçirib, 6 qol vurub, 12 məhsuldar ötürmə verib.
Yamalın qənimətlər muzeyində “Barselona” ilə qazandığı İspaniya La Liqası (2022/2023, 2024/2025), İspaniya Kral Kuboku (2024/2025) və İspaniya Super Kuboku (2024/2025) var. Həmçinin Yamal İspaniya yığması ilə AÇ-2024-ün qalibi olub.
“Transfermarkt” internet-portalı 18 yaşlı ispaniyalı sağ cinah hücumçusunun transfer dəyərini 200 milyon avro məbləğində qiymətləndirir.
Barcelona are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Tottenham Hotspur’s Micky van de Ven as Hansi Flick looks to secure a top-level, left-footed center-back this summer.
According to a report from Spanish outlet SPORT, the Dutch international has emerged as a primary alternative to Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni, whose price tag and Inter’s reluctance to sell make a deal difficult.
The sports management at Barcelona has been tracking Van de Ven for months, but interest has intensified due to the club’s current crisis.
With Spurs sitting in 16th place and winless in 2026, the 24-year-old is said to be looking to leave the club this summer.
The report suggests that Van de Ven is “highly questioned” by sections of the London team’s supporters, and with the club facing the genuine threat of relegation, an early departure is increasingly likely.
Crucially, Van de Ven has reportedly prioritised Barcelona over other potential suitors, including rivals Real Madrid.
While Barcelona believe they have the edge, they are not alone in their admiration. Liverpool have also been heavily linked with a move for the Dutchman in recent weeks.
The Reds reportedly see him as the long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk.
The prospect of signing a ‘world-class‘ defender at a potentially reduced price will no doubt make him a highly sought-after player.
With Ibrahima Konate’s contract situation still unresolved, Van de Ven will be a prime candidate to bolster Arne Slot’s defensive options.
For Tottenham, the potential exit of Van de Ven represents a nightmare scenario.
The club is already struggling with a defensive crisis, and losing their most athletic defender would be a devastating blow to their hopes of a rebuild, regardless of which division they find themselves in next season.
What makes this a nightmare situation is the uncertain future of club captain Cristian Romero.
The Argentine is currently serving the final match of a four-game suspension following a red card against Manchester United, and reports from his home country suggest he is also keen to leave this summer.
Former manager Thomas Frank admitted before his departure that he had “no idea” if Romero would stay, and with the captain reportedly frustrated by the club’s lack of investment, Spurs face the terrifying prospect of losing both of their starting center-backs in a single window.
The post Barcelona eyeing stunning move for ‘world-class’ Tottenham star as Spurs crisis deepens appeared first on CaughtOffside.
The friction between Li Auto and Volkswagen started back in September 2020 when Volkswagen China CEO stated that EREV technology is environmental unfriendly.
The post Li Auto: congratulations to Volkswagen on producing “outdated” range-extender technology appeared first on CarNewsChina.com.
The post Upbit Lists EDGE, Expands Trading Options appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News
South Korea’s top crypto exchange, Upbit, will list the EDGE token with trading pairs in KRW, BTC, and USDT, expanding access for its large user base. EDGE (Definitive) is an on-chain trading platform that works like a decentralized exchange aggregator, offering advanced order types, multichain liquidity routing, and CEX-style execution directly from users’ wallets. The token also provides fee benefits and premium features on the Definitive platform, making it appealing for active traders.
The post Binance Exchange Plans Five More Asia Licenses as APAC Crypto Adoption Surges appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News
Binance Exchange plans to secure five additional regulatory licenses in Asia this year as it expands its presence in the region’s growing cryptocurrency market.
SB Seker, Binance’s head of Asia-Pacific, shared the plan during an interview with Nikkei Asia in Tokyo.
“We have five more planned for this year in Asia,” Seker said.
The approvals would increase the exchange’s licensed operations to more than 20 jurisdictions worldwide.
Binance currently holds regulatory licenses and authorizations in Australia, India, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand, and Thailand. South Korea is expected to join the list after the company completes its acquisition of local crypto exchange Gopax.
Seker said the exchange is working through a pipeline of markets across Asia. Some licensing processes are nearing completion, while discussions with regulators continue in other jurisdictions regarding Binance’s business model and local compliance requirements.
The licensing efforts are part of Binance’s “hyperlocalization” strategy, which focuses on adapting operations to local regulatory standards while expanding services in individual markets.
Asia-Pacific has emerged as the fastest-growing region for cryptocurrency activity.
According to Chainalysis’ Global Crypto Adoption Index, total cryptocurrency transaction volume in the Asia-Pacific region increased from $1.4 trillion to $2.36 trillion, marking a 69% year-over-year increase.
The Country Crypto Adoption Index 2025 lists seven Asian nations among the global top 10: India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, South Korea, and Japan.
Binance has not disclosed which Asian countries could issue the new licenses. However, several jurisdictions in the region are strengthening digital asset regulations.
Hong Kong introduced a licensing system for Virtual Asset Trading Platforms and had about 11 licensed crypto exchanges operating in late 2025.
Japan maintains a mature regulatory structure where exchanges must register with the Financial Services Agency before offering services.
Malaysia requires crypto platforms to obtain approval from the Securities Commission and maintain strict compliance frameworks.
Vietnam and Thailand are also developing regulatory systems for digital asset trading.
Binance withdrew its application for a retail crypto license in Singapore in 2021 after regulators tightened oversight of cryptocurrency speculation. The company also ended direct retail services in the country.
Seker said Singapore remains important for Binance’s corporate headquarters, derivatives operations, and over-the-counter trading services.
However, obtaining a retail license would mainly allow Binance to serve the country’s smaller spot trading segment.
“The market isn’t very big, but we take every market seriously,” Seker said.
The post Binance Plans to Acquire Five Additional Regulatory Licenses in Asia appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News
Binance plans to acquire five more regulatory licenses in Asia this year as it expands its presence in the region’s fast-growing crypto market. The exchange already holds approvals in Australia, India, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand, and Thailand, with South Korea expected to join after its planned acquisition of Gopax. Asia-Pacific remains a key market for the company as crypto adoption rises rapidly. Binance says it is strengthening compliance and working closely with regulators while seeking approvals in several new markets.
Almaniyada yeni mövsümdən etibarən Bundesliqa və II Bundesliqa klubları üçün 21 yaşadək futbolçuların çıxış edəcəyi liqa keçiriləcək.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə Almaniya Peşəkar Futbol Liqasının mətbuat xidməti məlumat yayıb. Yeni liqaların yaradılmasında məqsəd gənc futbolçuların inkişafına təkan verməkdir.
Yarışda Bundesliqa və II Bundesliqa klublarının U-21 komandaları mübarizə aparacaq.
UEFA “Qalatasaray”ı cəzalandırıb.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, qurum Türkiyə klubunu Çempionlar Liqasında “Yuventus”la səfər matçında azakeşlərininuyğunsuz davranışlarına görə 40 min avro məbləğində cərimələyib. “Qalatasaray”a eyni zamanda bir səfər matçına azarkeş aparmamaq cəzası verilib.
İstanbul təmsilçisi qərardan etiraz edəcək.
“Qalatasaray” Çempionlar Liqasının pley-off mərhələsində “Liverpul”la martın 18-də İngiltərədə üz-üzə gələcək. İlk oyun isə martın 10-da Türkiyədə olacaq.
“Zirə” Azərbaycan Kubokunda yarımfinala yüksəlib. “Qartallar” iki oyunun nəticəsinə görə “Sumqayıt”ı mübarizədən kənarlaşdırıb – 0:0, 2:0.
Saşa İliçin rəhbərliyi altında mövsümə yaxşı başlayan “kimyaçılar” son dönəmlərdə enişdədir. Liqada ardıcıl xal itkiləri ilə geriləyən komanda kubokla da vidalaşdı. “Zirə” səfərində dişsiz oyun göstərən, rəqib müdafiəsini yara bilməyən “Sumqayıt” layiq olduğu məğlubiyyəti yaşadı.
Avrokuboklara vəsiqə mübarizəsində geri düşən “kimyaçılar” liqada üçüncü sıradakı “Turan Tovuz”dan 10 xal geri qalır. Fərqin aradan qaldırılması inandırıcı görünmür. Həm yuxarıdakı komandalar daha formadadır, həm də “Sumqayıt” sərgilədiyi oyunla o ümidi vermir.
Nəticələr bir yana, komandada intizamsızlıq da aşkardır. Heyətin ən təcrübəli adı Nikolo Ninkoviç son iki rəsmi matçda qırmızı vərəqə almaqla komandanı çətin duruma salır. Təcrübəsiylə fayda verməsi gözlənilən yarımmüdafiəçi əksinə yersiz vərəqələrlə planları pozur. İliçin onun barəsində tədbir görəcəyi gözlənilir.
“Sumqayıt” enişdədirsə, “Zirə” üçün yüksəlişdə demək olar. Rəşad Sadıqovun komandası son turlarda inamlı təsir bağışlayır. Liqada əsas rəqiblərindən “Araz-Naxçıvan”a qalib gələn “qartallar” çətin “Sumqayıt” səddini də rahatlıqla aşmağı bacardı. Qəsəbə komandası üçün hər iki yarışda mübarizə davam edir.
Şahin Cəfərov
Bu gün dünyanın yaşıl meydanlarında futbol oyunları keçiriləcək.
Futbolpress.az qarşılaşmaları canlı yayımlayacaq telekanalların siyahısını təqdim edir…
4 mart
Asiya Çempionlar Liqası
14:00 Seul – Kobe (Spor Smart Türkiye)
16:15 Johor – Hiroşima (Spor Smart Türkiye)
Türkiyə Kuboku
15:30 Erzurumspor – Keçiörengücü (A Spor)
21:30 Qaziantep – Fənərbağça (ATV Türkiye)
21:30 Beşiktaş – Rizespor (A Haber)
21:30 Beyoğlu – Kocaelispor (A Spor)
Azərbaycan Kuboku
19:00 Qarabağ – Şamaxı (CBC Sport)
İngiltərə, Premyer Liqa
23:30 Brayton – Arsenal (beİN Sports 3)
23:30 Aston Villa – Çelsi (İdman TV, beİN Sports 4)
23:30 Mançester Siti – Nottingem Forest (beİN Sports 2)
00:15 Nyukasl – Mançester Yunayted (beİN Sports 5)
İtaliya Kuboku
00:00 Latsio – Atalanta (TRT Spor)
İspaniyanın “Alaves” klubunun baş məşqçisi açıqlanıb.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, komandanın sükanı Kike Floresə tapşırılıb. Bu barədə klubun mətbuat xidməti məlumat yayıb. Mütəxəssislə 2 illik müqavilə imzalanıb.
Flores məşqçi karyerası ərzində “Real”, “Atletiko”, “Xetafe”, “Valensiya” kimi komandalara rəhbərlik edib.
“Alaves” La Liqada 26 turdan sonra 27 xalla 16-cı sıradadır.
ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Cale Makar had a goal and two assists, Nathan MacKinnon secured his fourth consecutive 100-point season with a third-period assist, and the NHL-leading Colorado Avalanche snapped the Anaheim Ducks' five-game winning streak with a 5-1 victory Tuesday night.
Parker Kelly scored two goals and Scott Wedgewood made 27 saves for the Avs, who have won three straight and four of five since the Olympic break. Martin Necas got his 27th goal and Gabriel Landeskog also scored to complete Colorado's back-to-back sweep of the Southern California clubs.
Cutter Gauthier scored his 29th goal and Lukas Dostal stopped 21 shots for the Ducks, whose eight-game home winning streak since Jan. 2 also ended.
Anaheim would have moved into first place in the Pacific Division with a point, but the loss kept Vegas one point ahead. The Ducks are in a playoff race down the stretch for the first time since 2018.
After two fruitless Ducks power plays in the opening minutes, Makar put the Avs ahead from the slot with his 18th goal.
Necas added his seventh power-play goal of the season 2 1/2 minutes later, beating his Czech Olympic teammate with a high shot. The goal was just the second on the power play in the last 12 games for the Avalanche, who inexplicably have the NHL's worst man-advantage unit despite their overall excellence.
Gauthier hammered home a one-timer early in the second after a superb cross-ice pass from Jackson LaCombe, but Kelly got his 14th goal later in the period.
Landeskog then scored a goal in his second straight game, connecting early in the third on a one-timer from MacKinnon, who got his 59th assist to go with his NHL-leading 41 goals.
Avalanche: At Dallas on Friday night.
Ducks: Host New York Islanders on Wednesday night.
___
AP NHL: https://apnews.com/NHL
The rivalry has become a tradition. The MLS All-Star Game 2026 will once again pit the best of Major League Soccer and Liga MX against each other on July 29 at Bank of America Stadium, home of Charlotte FC.
Kickoff is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET, continuing a fixture on the North American soccer calendar.
The festivities begin the day before. On July 28, players will take part in the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge presented by AT&T at Truist Field, also in Charlotte. The event features shooting, passing, and crossbar challenges designed to showcase technique before the main event.
The 2026 edition will mark:
The game has evolved beyond a typical exhibition. For MLS, it represents an opportunity to showcase the league’s growth and competitiveness. For Liga MX, it is a chance to defend its long-established reputation as the region’s traditional powerhouse.
The rivalry now extends beyond the All-Star Game. Cooperation between the leagues includes competitions such as the Leagues Cup and the Concacaf Champions Cup, creating regular points of contact between clubs.
Another layer adds intrigue: many players involved are expected to feature in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The All-Star Game effectively becomes a preview stage for talent ahead of the tournament.
Each side will feature 26 players.
MLS All-Stars
Voting details will be announced by the league in the coming weeks.
Liga MX All-Stars
Liga MX will also name 26 players. While final selection criteria have not been confirmed, the squad is expected to balance standout performers with representatives from the league’s most prominent clubs.
Results between the leagues remain relatively balanced.
MLS vs Liga MX All-Star Game
MLS holds three victories, while Liga MX has one.
The Skills Challenge is perfectly even:
The result is a 2–2 split heading into 2026.
Since joining MLS in 2022, Charlotte FC has quickly built a reputation for strong attendance.
Bank of America Stadium regularly ranks among the league’s leaders in crowd size. The club’s home debut drew 74,479 fans, one of the largest attendances in MLS history.
Other milestones underline the club’s presence in the city:
The stadium has also hosted major international events, including the Leagues Cup, Copa América, FIFA Club World Cup matches, and international friendlies. It is also home to the NFL’s Carolina Panthers.
All-Star Week expands beyond the match
The All-Star Game is part of a week-long series of events across Charlotte, including:
The week blends sport, entertainment, and business, turning the host city into a hub for the North American soccer industry.
The 2026 MLS All-Star Game arrives at a pivotal time for soccer in North America.
With the World Cup set to take place across the continent, both MLS and Liga MX are seeking to capitalize on increased global attention. MLS aims to expand its international visibility, while Liga MX continues to strengthen its brand presence in the United States.
On the field, however, the objective remains simple: competition.
Matches between MLS and Liga MX rarely resemble casual exhibitions. The stakes revolve around regional prestige.
World Baseball Classic games on TV today: Full schedule, times, channels, live streams to watch 2026 WBC originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The World Baseball Classic is back for 2026, with 20 teams vying for glory around the globe.
The tournament opens Thursday night, Eastern time, with the opening games in Pool C. Australia and Chinese Taipei lead things off from Tokyo, with Korea and Czechia to follow a few hours later on Friday morning in the U.S.
Australia was one of the feel-good stories of the 2023 WBC, beating Korea in its opener and making it out of pool play for the first time in the fifth edition of the tournament. Manager Dave Nilsson's Aussies lost a close one to Cuba in the quarterfinals, and they return several key players from that team plus MLB-caliber newcomers Curtis Mead and Travis Bazzana.
Chinese Taipei was in the most balanced WBC pool ever last time out, going 2-2 to finish in a five-way tie. Unfortunately, they ended up in last place on the tiebreaker and had to survive a qualifying tournament last year just to make the 2026 field.
The second game of the day at Tokyo will feature Korea trying to bounce back from missing out on the knockout stage last time and perennial underdog Czechia looking for a massive upset.
Here's everything you need to know to watch WBC games today.
| Game | Time (ET) | TV/Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Australia vs. Chinese Taipei | 10 p.m. | FS1, Fubo |
| Game | Time (ET) | TV/Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Korea vs. Czechia | 5 a.m. | FS1, Fubo |
| Czechia vs. Australia | 10 p.m. | FS1, Fubo |
The 2026 World Baseball Classic will be broadcast by the Fox networks, including the main channel, FS1 and FS2. All of those games can be streamed live via Fubo, and some additional games will stream on Tubi and the Fox app. Fox One will also stream every game.
Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)
| Game | Time (ET) | TV/Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Chinese Taipei vs. Japan | 5 a.m. | FS1, Fubo |
| Panama vs. Cuba | 11 a.m. | FS2, Fubo |
| Venezuela vs. Netherlands | 12 p.m. | Tubi |
| Great Britain vs. Mexico | 1 p.m. | FS1, Fubo |
| Colombia vs. Puerto Rico | 6 p.m. | FS1, Fubo |
| Dominican Republic vs. Nicaragua | 7 p.m. | FS2, Fubo |
| Brazil vs. USA | 8 p.m. | Fox, Fubo |
| Czechia vs. Chinese Taipei | 10 p.m. | FS2, Fubo |
| Game | Time (ET) | TV/Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Japan vs. Korea | 5 a.m. | FS1, Fubo |
| Canada vs. Colombia | 11 a.m. | FS2, Fubo |
| Netherlands vs. Nicaragua | 12 p.m. | Tubi |
| Italy vs. Brazil | 1 p.m. | Fox App |
| Puerto Rico vs. Panama | 6 p.m. | FS1, Fubo |
| Venezuela vs. Israel | 7 p.m. | FS2, Fubo |
| USA vs. Great Britain | 8 p.m. | Fox, Fubo |
| Korea vs. Chinese Taipei | 10 p.m. | FS2, Fubo |
| Game | Time (ET) | TV/Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Japan vs. Australia | 6 a.m. | FS1, Fubo |
| Cuba vs. Colombia | 12 p.m. | FS2, Fubo |
| Dominican Republic vs. Netherlands | 12 p.m. | Fox, Fubo |
| Italy vs. Great Britain | 1 p.m. | Tubi |
| Israel vs. Nicaragua | 7 p.m. | Tubi |
| Canada vs. Panama | 7 p.m. | FS2 |
| Mexico vs. Brazil | 8 p.m. | FS1 |
| Game | Time (ET) | TV/Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Australia vs. Korea | 6 a.m. | FS1, Fubo |
| Israel vs. Dominican Republic | 12 p.m. | FS1, Fubo |
| Panama vs. Colombia | 12 p.m. | FS2, Fubo |
| Great Britain vs. Brazil | 1 p.m. | Tubi |
| Puerto Rico vs. Cuba | 7 p.m. | FS1, Fubo |
| Nicaragua vs. Venezuela | 7 p.m. | FS2, Fubo |
| USA vs. Mexico | 8 p.m. | Fox, Fubo |
| Game | Time (ET) | TV/Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Japan vs. Czechia | 6 a.m. | FS1, Fubo |
| Netherlands vs. Israel | 7 p.m. | Fox App |
| Puerto Rico vs. Canada | 7 p.m. | Tubi |
| USA vs. Italy | 9 p.m. | FS1, Fubo |
| Game | Time (ET) | TV/Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Cuba vs. Canada | 3 p.m. | FS2, Fubo |
| Mexico vs. Italy | 7 p.m. | Tubi |
| Venezuela vs. Dominican Republic | 8 p.m. | FS1, Fubo |
| Game | Time (ET) | TV/Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Pool D1 vs. Pool C2 | 6:30 p.m. | FS2, Fubo |
| Pool B1 vs. Pool A2 | 8 p.m. | Fox, Fubo |
If the USA is in the quarterfinals, it will play on Friday
| Game | Time (ET) | TV/Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Pool A1 vs. Pool B2 | 3 p.m. | FS1, Fubo |
| Pool C1 vs. Pool D2 | 9 p.m. | Fox, Fubo |
If Japan is in the quarterfinals, it will play on Saturday
Semifinals and championship will be played in Miami
| Game | Time (ET) | TV/Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Friday quarterfinal winners | 8 p.m. | FS1, Fubo |
| Game | Time (ET) | TV/Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday quarterfinal winners | 8 p.m. | FS1, Fubo |
| Game | Time (ET) | TV/Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Semifinal winners | 8 p.m. | Fox, Fubo |
BOSTON — Jeremy Swayman gave up a goal on the first shot he saw and then stopped the next 34.
The Bruins goalie kept his team afloat despite being badly outshot in the final two periods as they held on to beat the Penguins, 2-1, on Tuesday at TD Garden.
The Bruins (34-21-5, 73 points) head to Nashville to face the Predators on Thursday.
Boston got off to a difficult start when Erik Karlsson beat Swayman 42 seconds into the game. The Bruins tried to challenge for goalie interference, but the goal was upheld leaving the Bruins’ shorthanded.
But they killed the penalty and then got their feet under them. Mikey Eyssimont fed the puck to the right faceoff circle, where Marat Khustnutdinov snapped it by Stuart Skinner to tie the game, with 14:50 left.
Just 50 seconds later, Skinner stopped a Nikita Zadorov shot from the slot, but the rebound went right to Casey Mittelstadt in the right circle. He tapped it in to put Boston ahead, 2-1.
The Bruins were helped by a dominant effort on faceoffs winning, 31 of 47 draws. Pavel Zacha won 10 of 12 including a couple in the final minutes.
Read the original article on MassLive. Add MassLive as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The NHL's hottest team isn't who you'd think originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Dallas Stars are on fire right now, and if you haven't been paying attention, it's time to start.
Dallas has rattled off 10 straight wins, the longest active winning streak in the NHL. It's the kind of run that turns a good team into a great story, and the Stars are writing a compelling one following the Olympic break.
DOUBLE DIGITS 🚨 pic.twitter.com/yY07rFFEGQ
— Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) March 4, 2026
Dallas knocked off the Winnipeg Jets (4-3), outlasted the St. Louis Blues twice, edged the Vegas Golden Knights 5-4 in a thriller, and dispatched the Seattle Kraken 4-1. They also dominated the Nashville Predators 3-2 before closing out the stretch with a 6-1 blowout over the Vancouver Canucks.
Ten wins, ten different opponents for the Stars. Injuries factored into the mix, too, with the loss of star forward Tyler Seguin for the season and Mikko Rantanen following the Olympics.
For Dallas, this streak puts them in firm control of their playoff positioning. The postseason is just weeks away, and momentum is everything; no team in the league has more of it right now.
The Stars return home to face the Colorado Avalanche on March 7. All eyes will be on the matchup that will test just how far this streak can go.
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Kirill Kaprizov broke the franchise career goals record with 220, Mats Zuccarello, Brock Faber and Quinn Hughes each had a goal and assist and the Minnesota Wild beat the Tampa Bay Lightning 5-1 Tuesday night.
Kaprizov’s empty-netter, a backhander from center ice for his 35th of the season, pushed him past Marian Gaborik for the most in Wild history.
Yakov Trenin also scored to help Minnesota end a two-game slide and continue its home dominance of Tampa Bay. The Wild are 16-3-0 at home against the Lightning.
Matt Boldy added a season-high three assists, extending his points streak to a career-high-tying 10 games. Filip Gustavsson stopped 26 shots, improving to 5-1-0 in his past six starts.
Opening a four-game road trip, Tampa Bay got a goal from Nikita Kucherov but lost its third straight game after a 20-1-1 stretch. Andrei Vasilevskiy made 17 saves.
Hughes also scored in the third period, resulting in a brief “U-S-A! U-S-A-!" chant for the member of the recent gold-medal winning squad.
Trenin scored a fluky goal at 17:10 of the second period for a 3-1 Minnesota lead.
Losing the puck as he tried to split a pair of defenders in the Lightning zone, Trenin finished his drive to the net and capitalized when Vasilevskiy struggled to cover the slow sliding puck.
Just over two minutes earlier, Kucherov completed a pretty passing play with Brayden Point and Jake Guentzel to get Tampa Bay on the board.
Faber scored less than four minutes into the game for a 1-0 lead. Zuccarello made it 2-0 with a 4-on-3 power-play goal early in the second period, the eighth straight game Minnesota has scored with the man advantage.
Lightning: At Winnipeg on Thursday night.
Wild: At Vegas on Friday night.
___
AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl
Receiving Aaron Wiggins' kick-out pass, Jaylin Williams calmly knocked down the outside catch-and-shoot look. Boom. That was enough for Chicago to wave the white flag as it cleared its bench. Even without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and others, OKC has figured out a formula to taste success.
The Oklahoma City Thunder enjoyed a 116-108 win over the Chicago Bulls. It was a game where the reigning NBA champions had most of the control. The latter is filled with career journeymen trying to find their next paychecks.
To start, both teams struggled to get anything going. The Thunder eventually found a rhythm with their second-unit lineup. Williams had eight points. Jared McCain quickly put up six points. They had a 26-22 lead after the first quarter.
The Bulls kept it within a possession. Guerschon Yabusele bullied his way to the rim. He also swished in a few outside jumpers. Isaiah Joe exchanged buckets with him. Welcome to NBA March basketball. The Thunder scored 29 points in the second frame. But they entered halftime with just a 55-54 lead over Chicago.
After the break, the Bulls eventually retook the lead. Josh Giddey swished an outside jumper. Matas Buzelis went to the free-throw line. Brand-new ballgame for OKC. That's where Chet Holmgren took over — on the defensive end, at least. Chicago's offense couldn't get anything going. It was out of synch. The rim-protector ensured that.
The Thunder went on a 14-4 run to create some separation again. They scored 32 points in the third frame. The Bulls saw their world fall apart. On one possession, Giddey had a gnarly ankle roll. A few possessions later, Buzelis also injured his knee. Both of Chicago's prized prospects fell. Only the former returned to the game.
Holding onto an 87-76 lead, the Thunder didn't need long to add more. They kept their distance on the scoreboard. Cason Wallace's steal-and-score pushed their advantage to 110-91 with a little under five minutes to go. That was enough to zap away all interest from this game — or most of it.
The Bulls went on an interesting 17-4 run that had the Thunder call a couple of timeouts to close this out with their end-of-bench guys. The outside shooting suddenly couldn't miss for Chicago in a half-empty gym still relying on nostalgia to sell tickets.
All that did was make the final score a little more respectable. The Thunder scored 29 points in the final frame. It never felt like they were actually on the verge of losing to one of the league's worst teams whose front office punted on the season at the trade deadline.
The Thunder shot 43% from the field and went 10-of-42 (23.8%) from 3. They shot 20-of-24 on free throws. They had 23 assists on 43 baskets. Six Thunder players scored double-digit points.
Holmgren had 12 points and 11 rebounds. McCain scored 20 points off the bench. Joe had 19 points. Wiggins tallied 18 points and seven rebounds. Williams finished with 17 points, 16 rebounds and six assists. Wallace had 17 points and five assists.
Meanwhile, the Bulls shot 43% from the field and went 17-of-49 (34.7%) from 3. They shot 13-of-19 on free throws. They had 27 assists on 39 baskets. Six Bulls players scored double-digit points.
Giddey finished with 14 points, nine rebounds and nine assists. Sexton scored 20 points off the bench. Yabusele had 18 points and 12 rebounds. Nick Richards tallied 12 points and 13 rebounds. Tre Jones scored 15 points. Buzelis had 11 points and five rebounds.
Another business-first win. Over the last month, the Thunder have learned to win without Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams. Never want to be without the reigning MVP and an All-NBA player, but OKC has passed several gut-check tests. Credit to OKC's system for making the most of the talent available on any night.
The Thunder depended on their league-best defense to shut down the Bulls — who only got lucky with outside shooting variance. Both teams are heading in opposite directions. OKC has some of the best team chemistry in the league. Meanwhile, Chicago plays like a bunch of dudes who met for the first time before the game. The contrasting playstyles were loud.
Let's look at Thunder player grades:
Running down the floor with Yabusele, Holmgren quickly made up for lost ground. The Chicago role player tried to rush in a transition layup. Instead, the NBA All-Star player yelled in his ear as he jumped off the floor with him. His wingspan helped him swat away his attempt. Just a special defender.
Holmgren finished with 12 points on 4-of-10 shooting, 11 rebounds and two assists. He shot 0-of-2 from 3 and went 4-of-6 on free throws. He also had two blocks.
Affecting the scoreboard in his way, Holmgren helped ice the Bulls. They struggled to attack the rim when he was on the floor. A bunch of Chicago role players didn't want to be on the wrong side of a refusal. That helped the Thunder overcome some ice-cold shooting splits as they manufactured points.
On the other end, Holmgren continued to be an efficient play-finisher. He sliced through Chicago's defense. Playing without a table-setter, the seven-footer showed he could go out and get his own buckets. He only needed a handful of dribbles to get to the cup and finish through contact.
Awesome game for Holmgren. He played within the flow of the offense. But also showed an ability to create off the dribble. Something he's rarely allowed to do when Gilgeous-Alexander is suited up. The defense speaks for itself. The seven-footer completely took over in the third quarter on that end as OKC pulled away with a double-digit lead.
Showing off his strength 💪 pic.twitter.com/a6MD5OODUM
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026
Clear the lane for 7️⃣ pic.twitter.com/XaapUvTv13
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026
Rim protection, presented by @ChetHolmgren 🙅♂️ pic.twitter.com/2GatbfkY4g
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026
Running some floppy action, McCain received Williams' dribble handoff. He took one dribble before he settled for a deep left-wing outside jumper that rattled in. Playing inside the historic NBA venue, the 22-year-old showed off some of his deep shot-making.
McCain finished with 20 points on 8-of-15 shooting, three rebounds and one assist. He shot 4-of-9 from 3. He also had two steals.
The rich keep getting richer. There were a lot of loud reactions involved when the Thunder acquired McCain from the Philadelphia 76ers. How could it happen? Why were the reigning NBA champions gifted a premier prospect? I felt like some of it was overblown. But oh my, can't say that right now, a month in.
McCain has been a perfect fit in OKC. Almost too perfect. After riding the bench to start the season, he's completely taken advantage of his fresh start. The Thunder needed a scorer with the number of guys out. He's gladly claimed plenty of possessions for himself.
The Thunder ran their second-unit offense through McCain. He was fed plenty of looks from the outside. One thing we've learned over his first month in OKC is that he's not afraid to let it fly. Once he got into a rhythm with his jumper, the buckets came in a flurry. He had nine points in the first half. He had the same amount in the third quarter alone.
In a game where plenty of players helped out, McCain was OKC's sole 20-point scorer. The Thunder badly needed the spark plug off the bench. He helped put them ahead by double-digit points. What an arrival by their big mid-season acquisition. For comparison, their last major trade deadline addition — Gordon Hayward — is about to get surpassed for points in their respective OKC stints.
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026
Stole it ➡️ scored it pic.twitter.com/Cd4AQ84GDQ
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026
All hustle 😤 pic.twitter.com/U4aZfsz4Xu
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026
Navigating McCain to cut to the basket, Williams went with the daring behind-the-back bounce pass as Richards was on his grill. The colorful pass resulted in an easy layup. Asked to take on more on his plate, the 23-year-old flirted with a triple-double.
Williams finished with 17 points on 6-of-11 shooting, 16 rebounds and six assists. He shot 3-of-7 from 3 and went 2-of-2 on free throws. He also had one steal.
It was an inside-outside scoring game for Williams. He had a few layups for a nonexistent defense. He also showed off his outside jumper. He helped close this out with nine points in the final frame. That included the dagger outside bucket that forced the Bulls to clear their bench.
The Thunder increased their lead thanks to their second unit. Williams was part of that. Scoring aside, he helped on the boards with one of his best nights ever in that department. The Bulls' erratic offense helped him gobble up misses on the boards. That helped OKC out in a big way, considering Isaiah Hartenstein was sidelined.
Stitching together a halfcourt offense, the Thunder relied on Williams' playmaking. He served as an offensive hub surrounded by several of their best off-ball cutters. He connected with his teammates on looks around the rim. The 23-year-old fit the ball into tiny windows as he flexed his passing skills.
Another game with the hospital version of OKC, another game where Williams easily scaled up. That might be his best skill. The third-string center has shown over the years that he can do whatever they need out of him. Some nights, it's playing a minimal role. Other nights, it's him having the ball in his hands as a way to create offense without an NBA superstar scorer.
JWill is cleared for takeoff 🛫 pic.twitter.com/SOB7RLSMBY
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026
Got himself a boom 💥 pic.twitter.com/yBRI8kRxvR
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026
Catching all five Bulls players asleep, Joe hard-cut to the basket before his teammates even crossed halfcourt. He went up for the alley-oop as Williams threw up a pass from the midcourt logo. Despite the distance, it was one of OKC's easiest buckets.
Joe finished with 19 points on 7-of-15 shooting and two rebounds. He shot 2-of-10 from 3 and went 3-of-4 on free throws. He also had one steal.
The outside jumper didn't fall, but Joe has graduated past just being a one-dimensional player. He found other ways to score as he was gifted a few easy looks around the rim. He even knocked down a couple of mid-range jumpers. He had 13 points in the second frame alone to keep the Thunder ahead.
It's been quite a month for Joe. He's turned into a consistent scorer. While it's been awesome to see him ride sizzling outside shooting to become that, the next step in his development was how he'd help out when the jumper didn't fall. You saw that firsthand here.
The Thunder need everybody to help out in these scenarios. It's the only way to overcome Gilgeous-Alexander's absence. No one will truly be a one-for-one replacement. Joe was part of a group effort once again. Even if his hot scoring only lasted one quarter.
JWill just keeps finding Zai 🔥 pic.twitter.com/k1OGRN98Bp
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026
Crossing over Yabusele, Wiggins lowered his shoulders before he drove to the basket. Losing his balance, he flung up the ball. The circus shot attempt kissed off the backboard as the 27-year-old was laid out on the ground. Finally, his finesse returned.
Wiggins finished with 18 points on 8-of-17 shooting, seven rebounds and four assists. He shot 0-of-5 from 3 and went 2-of-2 on free throws. He also had two steals and one block.
Throughout a tough month, the Thunder have stuck with Wiggins. One bad month suddenly doesn't erase years of work. The 27-year-old has struggled to put the ball through the hoop. He's had the same dribble moves to create separation. But just hasn't had the same efficiency as before.
Receiving the start, Wiggins finally rewarded their patience. He had 14 points in the second half. He flexed his tough shot-making on driving layups that increased in difficulty. Even at awkward angles, he somehow came up with buckets. It was a vintage stretch that has helped him become a main staple in OKC's rotation over the years.
Great way to finish the game. Wiggins helped the Thunder put this one away. Let's see if the momentum can snowball to other games. The 27-year-old is due for a hot streak. He's too good a self-creating scorer to suddenly forget to shoot the ball.
Wiggs is working 🙂↕️ pic.twitter.com/AuDPEX4Gqn
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026
Wiggins 😳 pic.twitter.com/uyrHTt2naR
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026
Stealing the ball away from Yabusele, Wallace had an easy lane to the basket. He went with the double-pump transition dunk. The Thunder were about to cross the finish line as they amped it up on the defensive end in the final moments of the game.
Wallace finished with 17 points on 6-of-13 shooting, five assists and one rebound. He shot 1-of-3 from 3 and went 4-of-4 on free throws. He also had two steals.
Considering who was out, Wallace returned to being the traditional point guard. He helped run the offense. Things were too easy for him when he drove to the basket. He also cashed in on a couple of jumpers. Over the last month, he's turned more into a downhill driver.
On defense, Wallace completely shut down Giddey. He was mostly irrelevant — despite a pretty box score. The Bulls had zero synergy together. Think everybody understands that this is just a weird group of veterans and projects who won't stick together beyond this season.
Wallace scored 12 points in the second half. A couple of those buckets came off turnovers. The Thunder had a group effort tonight. Hence why I included an ultra-rare sixth player grade. Too hard to decipher who among the six double-digit scorers needed a special shoutout. So went with all six.
Pulled 🆙 pic.twitter.com/Or31J9Kx0M
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026
Hit 'em with the lefty 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/HjYTZLH9CW
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026
The steals just won't stop 🔥 pic.twitter.com/A6yYZV4008
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026
This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: Player grades: Thunder pull away late in 116-108 win over Bulls
The ending was not what Jason Crowe Jr. wanted, but he got a hug from his mother and praise from his coach/father after Inglewood's 84-65 loss to Damien on Tuesday night in the Southern California Division I regional playoff game.
He finished with 34 points, ending his high school career with a state-record 4,718 points in 124 games, according to CalHiSports.com. He's more than 1,000 points ahead of the next-closest player. His scoring average was 38.0 points.
Jason Crowe Jr. ends his fabulous high school career with 34 points in Inglewood 84-65 loss to Damien. He finishes with 4,718 points in 124 games, the most points in California history. pic.twitter.com/O1Lqcaqwzl
— eric sondheimer (@latsondheimer) March 4, 2026
"I think he's had an amazing high school career," said his father, Jason Sr., who will join his son at Missouri next season serving as an assistant coach. "He had to go against the best defenses every night. I'm proud of him. He brought this program to the Division I level. He was on honor roll every year."
Damien (28-7) had too much firepower for Inglewood (28-7). Eli Garner scored 25 points and Zaire Rasshan had 24 points. Garner had a five-point play and Rasshan added a four-point play. Damien will play at No. 3-seeded Crespi on Thursday. Crespi defeated Bishop Amat 83-66. Isaiah Barnes scored 20 points. Sophomore Aiden Shaw had 25 points for Bishop Amat.
"Incredible career," Damien coach Mike LeDuc said of Crowe Jr.
Mater Dei 86, La Mirada 79: The Monarchs came back from a 12-point halftime deficit to eliminate No. 1-seeded La Mirada on the road in Division I.
St. John Bosco 65, San Marcos 55: Christian Collins scored 30 points and Max Ellis 19 for the Braves.
Venice 61, Riverside Ramona 50: Canaan Rodriguez scored 18 points for Venice in Division IV.
Oak Park 72, La Jolla Country Day 57: Karisma Flores scored 27 points, including seven of seven from the three-point line, to lead Oak Park.
This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The Fresno State Bulldog Foundation has launched a new program to provide healthy, locally grown food to student athletes.
James and Randy joined Action News sports director Stephen Hicks to discuss the program, what food can be donated and where it can be dropped off.
For more information, you can call 559-278-7160 or go online.
For sports updates, follow Stephen Hicks on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
TEMPE, Ariz. — Moe Odum scored 23 points, Massamba Diop added 19 and Arizona State pulled away late to beat No. 14 Kansas 70-60 on Tuesday night in what could be Sun Devils coach Bobby Hurley’s final home game.
Hurley is the final year of his contract and the administration hasn’t given any indications it will be extended amid a fourth mediocre season in the past five years.
The Sun Devils (16-14, 7-10 Big 12) did all they could to send their coach off with a win in a physical, emotional game that included the ejection of Kansas coach Bill Self and one of his assistants.
Arizona State jumped on Kansas early, withstood a big run and made the key plays down the stretch to beat the Jayhawks (21-9, 11-6) for the third time in the Hurley era, with the others 2018 and ’19.
Darryn Peterson scored 13 of his 15 points in the second half as the Jayhawks twice rallied from double-digit deficits. Kansas went on a 17-1 run to cut a 20-point halftime deficit to four and trimmed a 12-point deficit to two with four minutes left.
Anthony Johnson answered with a 3-pointer and a layup, kicking off a 11-0 run that secured Arizona State’s 15th win over a ranked opponent — second this season — in Hurley’s 11 seasons.
Self was hit ejected in the first half for arguing an offensive foul call against Peterson. Assistant Jacque Vaughn was also T’d up and Elmarko Jackson was hit with a flagrant foul for taking down Arizona State’s Allen Mukeba on a drive.
Kansas: Hosts Kansas State on Saturday.
Arizona State: At No. 6 Iowa State on Saturday.
HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL, SOFTBALL SCORES
Tuesday’s Results
BASEBALL
SOUTHERN SECTION
Adelanto 5, AAE 4
Agoura 11, Culver City 0
Anaheim Canyon 2, Mission Viejo 1
Apple Valley 8, Victor Valley 7
Arcadia 21, Glendale 0
Ayala 8, Damien 3
Azusa 11, Arroyo 0
Bishop Amat 3, St. Bernard 2
Bishop Montgomery 11, St. Anthony 8
Buena 13, San Marcos 3
Boron 17, Eastside 5
Burbank 2, Hoover 2
Burbank Burroughs 12, Pasadena 0
Burbank Providence 1, Shadow Hills 0
Calvary Baptist 4, Diamond Ranch 2
Castaic 11, Foothill Tech 10
Chino Hills 9, Yucaipa 0
Claremont 3, Western Christian 1
Colony 7, Ontario Christian 2
Cornerstone Christian 9, San Jacinto Valley Academy 6
Corona Del Mar 2, Orange County Pacifica Christian 1
Costa Mesa 14, La Palma Kennedy 0
Crean Lutheran 14, Oxford Academy 0
Crescenta Valley 6, Muir 5
Crossroads 7, Campbell Hall 4
Don Lugo 6, Alta Loma 6
Dos Pueblos 6, Ventura 5
El Modena 3, Irvine 2
Fontana 9, Ontario 0
Garey 6, Montclair 6
Glenn 1, Compton 0
Granite Hills 13, CIMSA 1
Harvard-Westlake 4, Huntington Beach 3
Hesperia 14, Silverado 2
Hesperia Christian 19, California Lutheran 1
Indio 8, San Bernardino 7
Jurupa Hills 7, La Quinta 5
Jurupa Valley7, Colton 5
Katella 11, Santa Ana 0
Knight 6, Eisenhower 3
La Habra 2, St. Paul 0
La Salle 10, Gardena Serra 0
Loara 1, Orange 0
Long Beach Cabrillo 16, Dominguez 4
Long Beach Jordan 9, Western 1
Long Beach Wilson 3, Arlington 2
Lynwood 10, HMSA 2
Magnolia 4, Westminster 1
Marina 3, Segerstrom 2
Northview 4, Bonita 1
Nuview Bridge 10, Desert Christian Academy 0
Perris 7, Temecula Prep 1
Oak Park 3, Nordhoff 1
Ocean View 5, Dana Hills 1
Paraclete 7, Cantwell-Sacred Heart of Mary 4
Patriot 4, Banning 1
Placentia Valencia 18, Downey Calvary Chapel 2
Rancho Cucamonga 6, Chaffey 4
Redlands Adventist Academy 16, Sherman Indian 3
Ridgecrest Burroughs 12, Bishop Union 2
Rio Mesa 6, Oxnard 1
Riverside Poly 10, Riverside North 1
Saddleback 18, Inglewood 1
Sage Creek 5, Murrieta Mesa 2
San Jacinto 13, Twentynine Palms 6
Santa Barbara 2, Oxnard Pacifica 1
Savanna 8, Laguna Hills 7
Serrano 14, Arroyo Valley 2
Sierra Canyon 7, Etiwanda 5
Southlands Christian 11, El Monte 6
St. Bonaventure 26, Santa Clara 0
St. Francis 12, Channel Islands 1
St. Monica 2, Cathedral 1
St. Monica Academy 13, Faith Baptist 5
Sultana 17, Norte Vista 5
Summit 13, Riverside Prep 7
Tustin 22, Garden Grove Santiago 1
Villa Park 3, Fullerton 1
West Valley 16, Entrepreneur 2
Whittier Christian 3, Sunny Hills 3
Windward 6, Brentwood 6
Woodcrest Christian 5, Indian Springs 1
Yorba Linda 6, Brea Olinda 4
INTERSECTIONAL
Borrego Springs 12, Anza Hamilton 3
Calabasas 4, Palisades 1
Compton Centennial d. Dorsey, forfeit
Lucerne Valley 28, Trona 2
Vista Murrieta 6, Poway 5
Trinity Classical Academy 14, Verdugo Hills 4
SOFTBALL
CITY SECTION
University Prep Value 23, Alliance Ouchi 18
SOUTHERN SECTION
Adelanto 16, AAE 15
Aliso Niguel 7, Esperanza 5
Apple Valley 12, Jurupa Hills 4
Arroyo Valley 10, Yucca Valley 3
Azusa 11, Mountain View 0
Baldwin Park 6, Montebello 4
Beaumont 4, Sultana 3
Bolsa Grande 14, Century 13
Brentwood 13, Immaculate Heart
Buena Park 12, Anaheim 9
Burbank Burroughs 18, South Pasadena 0
Chaminade 7, Moorpark 1
Citrus Valley 16, Serrano 1
Coastal Christian 8, Santa Maria 8
Colony 3, Kaiser 1
Colton 11, Jurupa Valley 1
Compton Early College 20, Lawndale 9
Corona 10, Northwood 0
Corona del Mar 22, Estancia 6
Covina 11, Ramona Convent 0
Crean Lutheran 18, Westminster 2
Crescenta Valley 7, La Canada 4
Dana Hills 8, Mission Viejo 6
Desert Christian Academy 21, Nuview Bridge 9
Dos Pueblos 10, Ventura 0
Downey 10, Santa Fe 4
Duarte 14, Ramona Convent 6
Eastside 8, Boron 3
El Dorado 21, Troy 0
El Monte 8, Monrovia 7
Elsinore 4, Rancho Verde 2
Foothill Tech 6, Fillmore 4
Gahr 2, California 1
Ganesha 5, Millikan 2
Glendora 13, Temple City 5
Golden Valley 17, Antelope Valley 7
Hawthorne 19, Environmental Charter 1
Hemet 16, Temecula Prep 4
Heritage Christian 20, Hueneme 0
Hesperia 4, Silverado 1
Hesperia Christian 25, California Lutheran 4
Irvine University 10, Laguna Hills 0
Katella 5, Garden Grove 3
Lakewood 5, Paramount 0
La Serna 14, Sonora 13
Lennox Academy 23, Compton 5
Leuzinger 1, Bishop Conaty-Loretto 1
Littlerock 9, Rosamond 1
Long Beach Poly 8, Cerritos Valley Christian 1
Los Amigos 7, Santa Ana 5
Lynwood 22, HMSA 3
Maranatha 12, Burbank 1
Marymount 33, Oakwood 6
Mira Costa 15, Culver City 0
Montclair 16, Garey 5
Muir 10, Mayfield 0
Newbury Park 6, Grace 3
Newport Harbor 4, Ocean View 3
North Torrance 10, Mayfair 0
Norwalk 16, Artesia 4
Oak Hills 12, Granite Hills 0
Oak Park 5, Louisville 0
Oaks Christian 10, Saugus 1
Ontario 12, Fontana 4
Ontario Christian 21, Lakeside 6
Palm Desert 14, Redlands 3
Patriot 9, Hillcrest 8
Paraclete 9, Highland 4
Rio Mesa 5, Oxnard 1
Rosary Academy 10, Cerritos 2
Rosemead 17, Glendale 5
Sacred Heart of Jesus 20, Pioneer 4
San Bernardino 19, Rubidoux 9
San Clemente 16, Segerstrom 0
San Dimas 18, Mark Keppel 4
San Gorgonio 16, Indian Springs 4
San Juan Hills 10, Woodbridge 1
San Marcos 16, Buena 6
San Marino 13, Alhambra 3
Santa Ana Foothill 7, Villa Park 3
Santa Ana Valley 14, Samueli Academy 0
Santa Margarita 8, Capistrano Valley 3
Santa Ynez 19, Bishop Diego 1
Schurr 13, Sierra Vista 0
St. Bonaventure 7, Viewpoint 3
Tesoro 10, Beckman 7
Thousand Oaks 15, Royal 1
Trabuco Hills 17, Portola 0
Warren 9, El Rancho 0
Western Christian 14, Chaffey 6
West Torrance 13, Wiseburn-Da Vinci 3
Woodcrest Christian 12, Moreno Valley 2
Yorba Linda 12, Sunny Hills 0
Yucaipa 6, Riverside Poly 5
INTERSECTIONAL
Animo Venice 19, Crossroads 3
El Camino Real 6, Hart 5
Sierra Canyon 6, Granada Hills 3
Trona 16, Lucerne Valley 2
This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Before his Premier League match against Aston Villa, Chelsea coach Liam Rosenior provided an update on his injured players, one week before the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 against PSG.
The Champions League round of 16 is fast approaching. Opposed to Chelsea, PSG will need to raise their level of play to hope to defend their title. For that, Luis Enrique hopes for the return of Ousmane Dembele and Fabian Ruiz, who have been absent for a few matches. On the Blues' side, Liam Rosenior also has to deal with some absences.
The day after the defeat against Arsenal in the Premier League (2-1), the Blues coach was present at a press conference on Monday, before facing Aston Villa in the league on Wednesday.
And the former Strasbourg coach was questioned about the fitness of his group ahead of this Premier League clash, in comments reported by the official Chelsea website. And he could notably count on the returns of Marc Cucurella, absent during the last three matches due to a hamstring injury, and Cole Palmer, who left injured against the Gunners.
"Cole took a knock [against Arsenal], but he's doing very well. He looks in great shape, and I think you can see how we've managed him over the past few weeks. He played 83 minutes [Sunday], and it was a tactical decision to replace him and Enzo [Fernandez], because they had received a yellow card, and I wanted to bring some freshness with Garna [Garnacho] and Liam [Delap]. So yes, Cole is fully ready to start the match on Wednesday, and Reece [James] is also fit (…) Cucu (Marc Cucurella) looks in very good shape, and I hope we can bring him back, if not on Wednesday, then Saturday [against Wrexham in the FA Cup]. That's great news for us, given the schedule ahead. Estevao is back on the field, which is great, and he's doing very well. Jamie Gittens is also progressing well in his rehabilitation. It was great to see Romeo [Lavia] play his first minutes in a long time [Sunday]. I thought he was very solid [against Arsenal]. I think he's ready to come back into the starting eleven. We managed his rehabilitation differently, and I hope that now that he's back fit, he'll stay that way."
Chelsea will have two more matches to play (Aston Villa and Wrexham) before facing PSG in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 (March 11).
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The San Francisco 49ers have a couple of glaring needs on offense, and they covered both of them in a new two-round mock draft by ESPN draft analyst Jordan Reid.
In Reid's two-round projections the 49ers pick up Texas A&M wide receiver KC Concepcion with the No. 27 overall pick, and then they add offensive tackle Caleb Tiernan from Northwestern with the No. 58 selection in the second round.
Concepcion has been a popular mock draft choice for the 49ers. The speedy wide receiver has big-time playmaking ability. He stretches the field vertically while also racking up yards after the catch on short throws. He's not in the Deebo Samuel realm from a versatility standpoint, but it's easy to see where he fits into a 49ers' offense that badly needs high-upside playmakers in its receiving corps.
Here's what Reid had to say about Concepcion, who finished his three-year college career with 185 receptions for 2,218 yards and 25 touchdowns in 38 games:
Concepcion is an explosive playmaker who has many traits that translate to success in coach Kyle Shanahan's scheme. Concepcion kicks it into gear on route stems and racks up plenty of big plays as a pass catcher and a return specialist.
Tiernan is an interesting choice who Reid describes as a "dependable and high-floor blocker who could eventually take over at either tackle spot."
The 6-foot-8, 328-pound OT started all 38 games he played at left tackle across his final three seasons with the Wildcats. He also made five starts at right tackle as a freshman per the Northwestern Athletics site.
Whether the 49ers would select a tackle in the second round is the bigger question than Tiernan's fit. They spent a first-round pick on OT Mike McGlinchey in the 2018 draft. They spent a second-round pick on Aaron Banks in 2021. Beyond that they've never spent more than a third-round pick on an offensive lineman, which brings into question whether they'd go that route while overlooking other needs on the defensive line and in the receiving corps.
If they did take Tiernan, there's a chance they may try to play him at right tackle over Colton McKivitz, but winning that job against the vastly improved McKivitz wouldn't be easy. There's a real question about whether San Francisco would want a second-round pick to take on a reserve OL spot on a roster that needs other upgrades to compete for a Super Bowl in 2026.
More 49ers: 49ers officially sign oldest player to 1-year contract extension
This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 2026 NFL draft: 49ers add KC Concepcion, Caleb Tiernan in 2-round mock
As if general manager Bill Guerin needed any extra motivation to go big game hunting at the trade deadline, the Wild once again showcased their seemingly limitless potential on Tuesday night at Grand Casino Arena.
A few hours after Guerin made a minor move to acquire depth center Michael McCarron, the Wild snapped a brief losing streak with an impressive 5-1 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning.
It was a hot start for the Wild as defenseman Brock Faber cashed in early in the first period to make it 1-0. It was beautiful sequence as Faber took a feed from winger Marcus Johansson near the right circle, then beat Lightning goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy top shelf.
The score held up largely because of goaltender Filip Gustavsson between the pipes. He made 12 saves for the Wild amid heavy pressure in the opening frame to keep the Lightning off the scoreboard.
A snipe from winger Mats Zuccarello on the power play helped the Wild stretch the lead to 2-0 early in the second period before Lightning winger Nikita Kucherov cut the deficit to 2-1 with a snipe of his own.
Though it looked like the Wild be locked in a tight contest the rest of the way, winger Yakov Trenin put forth an outstanding individual effort to make it 3-1. He hustled into the offensive zone at the end of his shift and was rewarded with a goal that took the edge off.
The dagger came midway through the third period courtesy of superstar defenseman Quinn Hughes. He corralled a loose puck, dangled through a host of defenders, and found the back of the net to make it 4-1 in favor of the Wild.
As the game wound to a close, superstar winger Kirill Kaprizov finalized the score at 5-1 with backhanded shot into an empty net. In the process, Kaprizov successfully rewrote the record books, passing former star winger Marian Gaborik for the most goals in franchise history.
EDMONTON, Alberta (AP) — Leon Draisaitl had two goals and three assists, Evan Bouchard scored on a power play at 1:50 of overtime and the Edmonton Oilers rallied to beat the Ottawa Senators 5-4 on Tuesday night.
With Brady Tkachuk in the penalty box for tackling Connor McDavid in overtime, Edmonton got it back to Bouchard and he blasted in his 18th of the season.
Zach Hyman tied it for the Oilers with 1:25 remaining in the third period with goalie Connor Ingram of for an extra attacker. Hyman tipped Draisaitl's pass under Linus Ullmark for his 25th goal of the season.
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins also scored and Ingram made 17 saves for the Oilers in their first home game in a month. They had lost five of their previous six.
Drake Batherson had two goals for the second consecutive game and Dylan Cozens and Michael Amadio also scored for Ottawa. The Senators are 6-1-2 in their last nine games.
Ullmark made 32 saves.
Senators: At Calgary on Thursday night.
Oilers: Host Carolina on Friday night.
___
AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl
The Calgary Flames returned to the Scotiabank Saddledome on Tuesday night for their first home game since the Olympic break, but the welcome back wasn’t a warm one.
Facing a red-hot Dallas Stars club that continues to stack wins, the Flames were handed a decisive 6–1 loss. Dallas, now riding a franchise best 10-game winning streak dating back to before the break, wasted little time asserting control.
The Stars opened the scoring at 8:44 of the first period. Matt Duchene tracked down a loose puck along the half wall and slipped it into the slot, where Sam Steel redirected it past Dustin Wolf for a 1–0 lead. Jamie Benn added the secondary assist.
Calgary responded almost immediately.
On the very next shift, Adam Klapka carried the puck into the zone and moved it to Blake Coleman, who quickly threaded a pass to Morgan Frost in front. Frost got a piece of it and deflected the puck beyond Casey DeSmith at 9:52 to even the game 1–1.
The tie was short-lived.
Just over two minutes later, Benn restored the Dallas lead. After taking a pass from Duchene in the corner, Benn directed the puck toward the net. It slipped through Wolf and across the goal line to make it 2–1. Steel picked up another helper on the play, and the Stars carried that edge into the first intermission.
Dallas broke the game open in the second period.
At 2:26, Jason Robertson fired a shot from the blue line that changed direction off Mavrik Bourque and sailed past Wolf glove-side to extend the lead to 3–1.
Moments later, during four-on-four play, Duchene dazzled with a spin move around Mackenzie Weegar before sliding a cross-seam pass to Steel, who buried a one-timer at 6:02. That goal ended Wolf’s night, as Devin Cooley was called in for relief.
The momentum didn’t shift.
A point shot from Nils Lundkvist found its way through traffic and was tipped en route by Nathan Bastian, stretching the lead to 5–1. Then, with under a minute to play in the period and on a late Dallas power play, Wyatt Johnston was left alone in front and calmly slid a backhand past Cooley at 19:41. Duchene and Robertson added assists as the Stars headed into the third period up 6–1.
The final frame offered little change on the scoreboard, but there were still storylines worth noting for Calgary.
1. Parekh’s Confidence Growing
Zayne Parekh stood out at times with his willingness to direct pucks on net and involve himself offensively. He looked increasingly comfortable jumping into plays and showed added bite in the defensive zone, signaling growth in his all-around game.
2. Cooley’s Compete Level
Thrown into a difficult situation, Cooley allowed two goals but settled in during the third period. He turned aside 16 shots overall and made several impressive saves, continuing to demonstrate resilience and battle in tough circumstances.
3. Penalty Kill Remains Steady
The Flames’ penalty kill went 4-for-5 on the night (80 percent) against one of the league’s most dangerous offensive teams. In a season where scoring has been a challenge, the PK continues to provide a measure of consistency and reliability.
On Tuesday night, the Chicago Blackhawks suffered a tough loss at the hands of the Winnipeg Jets. They blew a late lead after dominating for most of the game.
Ahead of this game, their first following the trade of Connor Murphy, Connor Bedard was given an "A" on his sweater. Murphy was a full-time Alternate Captain in Chicago, but with his departure came the opportunity for Bedard to have it.
After the game, head coach Jeff Blashill confirmed that Bedard will have the "A" on his sweater for the rest of the season. With Jason Dickinson and Nick Foligno on the trade block, there may be even more captain slots available in the coming days.
"He'll wear the "A" for the rest of the year," Blashill said. "I had given it to him earlier in the year when we had injury issues. I think he's earned it with his commitment to winning hockey."
Blashill has been around some sensational leaders in his coaching career. Pavel Datsyuk, Henrik Zetterberg, Steven Stamkos, and Victor Hedman are just a handful of examples. Seeing these qualities in Bedard speaks volumes coming from a coach like Blashill.
"He has to continue to be committed to winning hockey. Those are the ways that you lead," Blashill continued. "Hopefully, he can continue to do that."
"It's great," Bedard said of being given an "A". "There are guys like [Connor Murphy], like [Jason Dickinson], like [Nick Foligno] that we've learned from for a couple of years now. Obviously, the letter doesn't change anything you do as a person or anything, but it's nice to be recognized like that. Lots of great players have worn it."
Bedard is likely the only young player who will get the honor this year. Other candidates for this year include Tyler Bertuzzi, Teuvo Teravainen, Ilya Mikheyev, and Ryan Donato.
Frank Nazar, Alex Vlasic, Oliver Moore, and Ryan Greene all have signs of being leaders in the future, but their time has to wait. You also don't need a letter on your sweater to be an impactful leader on a hockey team.
Bedard will likely be the next captain of the Blackhawks. If they trade Foligno, they may wait until the off-season to make that official, but you never know. Blashill's words did make it seem like the "A" is going to be his role for now.
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Relegated in the goalkeeper hierarchy at PSG, Lucas Chevalier should also lose his place on the France team 100 days before the 2026 World Cup.
100 days before the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico (June 11 – July 19). A competition that will concern many Parisians.
Present in Didier Deschamps' squad during the last gatherings, Lucas Chevalier has lost many points since then. Indeed, the French international has become Matvey Safonov's backup at PSG and has not played a match since the encounter against AJ Auxerre (0-1) on Jan. 23. A relegation in the goalkeeper hierarchy that should impact his future with the France team.
Promoted to No. 2 goalkeeper for Les Bleus last autumn, the former LOSC player could pay for his lack of playing time at PSG. To date, the hierarchy of the first two is not debated: Mike Maignan and Brice Samba.
"Barring injury or failure of the Russian goalkeeper, the former Lille player should only play three or four matches by the end of the season. Insufficient momentum at this level of requirement," reports Le Parisien.
The PSG goalkeeper could thus not be called up for the next international break in March, during which the France team will face Brazil and Colombia, on March 26 and 29 in Boston and Washington. And his competitor, Alphonse Areola, does not reassure either, as he has not been a starter at West Ham for a few weeks.
In this context, a duel between Robin Risser (RC Lens) and Jean Butez (Como) is underway for the third goalkeeper role. "At this stage, the gap between the two men is slim, with perhaps a slight advantage to the Artesian goalkeeper." Didier Deschamps will reveal his list for the next international break on March 19.
France national team possible list:
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OXFORD, Miss. (AP) — Tyler Tanner scored 34 points, including 10 of Vanderbilt's 13 in overtime, and the No. 24 Commodores beat Mississippi 89-86 on Tuesday night.
Vanderbilt (23-7, 10-7 SEC) never trailed in overtime, with Tanner's steal leading to a three-point play that snapped a 74-all tie. Tanner had another three-point play in the extra period and finished it off for Vanderbilt with two free throws with 16 seconds remaining.
Tanner finished 11 of 19 from the field and added seven assists, five rebounds and five steals. Duke Miles and AK Okereke added 16 points apiece for the Commodores, who moved into a four-way tie for fifth place in the SEC.
Freshman Patton Pinkins led Mississippi (12-18, 4-13) with 16 points but missed a 3-pointer that would have tied it with two seconds remaining in overtime. AJ Storr and Ilia Kamerdine scored 14 points apiece and Malik Dia added 11.
The loss was the latest in a frustrating season for the Rebels, losers of seven games by seven points or less after reaching the Sweet 16 in last season’s NCAA Tournament.
Ole Miss led 37-33 at halftime after building a 15-3 lead in the opening seven minutes. Vanderbilt shot 1 for 13 in the slow start but stayed within striking range by forcing nine turnovers for 13 uncontested points.
Vanderbilt missed the final shot of regulation, a heavily contested layup by Miles. The Commodores were 3 of 5 from the field in overtime, with Tyler Nickel's 3-pointer the only points that didn't come from Tanner. Ole Miss shot 2 of 10.
Vanderbilt: The Commodores complete the regular season at No. 23 Tennessee on Saturday.
Ole Miss: The Rebels host South Carolina on Saturday in the regular season finale
___
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After weeks of showing fight, it appears that the LSU Tigers Men's Basketball regular season will end with a whimper after losing 88-74 to the Auburn Tigers on Tuesday night.
There is now just one game remaining left in the regular season and the Tigers were already coming off another near 20-point loss to the Oklahoma Sooners a few days ago.
LSU now falls to 15-15 on the year and just 3-14 in conference play. They will not be entering the SEC tournament with confidence or rhythm.
Matt McMahon's job security has been talked about all season. While it appears that it's still up in the air if he will return or not, these types of performances won't really help.
The only purple and gold Tiger in this game that had a standout performance was Mike Nwoko with 19 points. They mostly came from the charity stripe, where he was 11-of-13.
Even Nwoko had just five rebounds, which is a number that he would have liked to see higher. LSU did match Auburn as a team with 27 rebounds. It was Auburn that performed better on the offensive boards, though, picking up six more second-chance points.
That at the -7 in turnover differential that LSU had were the biggest differences in this game. Both teams shot around the same, rebounded the same, had the same amount of assists and even had about the same night at the free throw line.
McMahon's Tigers were just sloppier. Jalen Reece had five turnovers alone, the team combined for 16. This is the kind of thing that would have completely changed with DJ Thomas on the court, as he brought a bit more organization to things.
LSU's final game of the regular season will be at home against the Texas A&M Aggies on Saturday, March 7 at 5 pm CT.
It's no secret that the quarterback play from the Minnesota Vikings in 2025 was a tough watch, to say the least. However, through three different starters, this team still mustered a 9-8 record, including winning five straight to close out the year.
We can expect this to be a very fluid situation this offseason, as the Vikings could go in a multitude of directions. But, while at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, The Athletic's Alec Lewis got some information from people around the league regarding Minnesota's former first-round pick:
"The word used by more than a handful of team sources to describe McCarthy’s play was inconsistent. . .The Vikings also knew they were drafting a young player. What they did not envision, especially following an encouraging first training camp that preceded his torn meniscus, was the challenge posed by some of the more elemental aspects of being the face of a franchise. These growth hurdles have become widely known among NFL executives and coaches, and they were frequent topics in Indianapolis."
Much of the struggles this season came from second-year man J.J. McCarthy, whether it was his lack of availability or his play when he was on the field. If the mental reps are not even cutting it then something will have to give
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: J.J. McCarthy and his 'growth hurdles' remain a talking point
Future opponent of PSG in the Champions League, Chelsea is a resilient and complicated team to beat, but one that still hasn't managed to chase away its old demons, despite its recent coaching change. Up to Luis Enrique and his players to take advantage.
Sixth in the Premier League after 28 rounds, six points behind Manchester United (3rd) and Aston Villa (4th), whom they face this Wednesday night, Chelsea lost 2-1 on Sunday on the pitch of their neighbors, Arsenal (1st). A third defeat in a few weeks for the Blues against the Gunners, who had already beaten them twice in the League Cup semifinal in January and February.
After 13 matches on the Chelsea bench, Liam Rosenior has a fairly interesting overall record of 8 wins, 2 draws, and 3 losses, all against Arsenal. But PSG's future opponent in the Champions League is coming off a disappointing draw against Burnley (1-1) and a defeat (2-1) in the derby against Arsenal. Two Premier League matches during which Chelsea finished with ten men and conceded goals from corners.
Indiscipline and weakness on defensive set pieces are recurring ills at Chelsea, who thought they had at least solved the one concerning their players' nervousness since Rosenior's arrival on the bench. Until they saw Wesley Fofana and Pedro Neto get sent off against Burnley and Arsenal.
"It's a matter of concentration and attention that we must improve," Rosenior lamented Sunday in a press conference. "I know the club's results aren't excellent in this area since the start of the season, and now they're getting worse. We had 10 matches without any problem in this area since my arrival, but now we've just taken two reds in two matches. There's something deep that we need to understand. For me, if we understand these two main things, we can be a very, very good team and we can achieve all our goals."
Since the start of the season, Chelsea has received 9 red cards, not counting Enzo Maresca's after his celebration against Liverpool. The Blues are last in the Premier League fair play standings, which is not new since they finished second-to-last last season and already last in 2023/2024, counting the yellows and reds collected in the league. The Blues are also only two expulsions away from the record in this area in a Premier League season, with still 10 rounds to play.
How to explain such a record? One possible factor, but one minimized internally by the BBC, is that Chelsea has the youngest squad in the Premier League and lacks natural leaders. "It's costing them dearly. I don't think it's something you can fix at this stage of the season, we're in March," estimates former English defender Matthew Upson. "It's something you talk about during pre-season. It's a question of culture that you instill within the club. Players buy into it and ensure it's respected. It's about being measured and controlled at the right moment."
Leader and experienced player of this Chelsea team, defender Reece James acknowledged on Sky Sports microphone that it was a problem to absolutely fix for his team: "Every time, it's someone different, never the same player. Internally, we need to take stock and continue to improve. It's a problem. We play in the hardest league in the world: 11 against 11, it's difficult; 11 against 10, it's even harder, regardless of the opponent."
After speaking on Sunday in a press conference following the defeat against Arsenal, Liam Rosenior appeared again before the media on Monday, two days before the clash against Aston Villa in the Premier League. And the former Strasbourg coach was hammered with questions about his team's indiscipline. A subject he takes very seriously and wants to fix as quickly as possible.
How? "I think the first thing to do is to select players who show improvement in this area. I can't afford to play a season with a red card every two or three matches. It's simply impossible. I need to see improvement at this level right now. I have to adapt my team selection based on players who show these capabilities," he responded, before being a little embarrassed when asked about his vice-captain Enzo Fernandez, who has received 12 yellow cards since August 2023, most of them for dissent.
"Enzo is a great leader," Rosenior replied. "Yes, it's something we need to improve. Yes, we are a young team. It's not an excuse. We are an exceptional team. We are one of the youngest in the league, one of the youngest in Europe. What's great about a young team is that sometimes you have to go through experiences to improve. It's a very enriching experience for my group. I don't want it to be a learning experience where we fail to achieve what we want. But we must learn lessons from these setbacks we are suffering. Because if we learn from them, we have proven, even during the short time I've been here, that we can be an elite team for a long time."
But indiscipline is not the only big problem for Chelsea this season. The Blues conceded two new goals from corners against Arsenal, certainly the best team in England in this area, but it was also from a corner that they had conceded the equalizing goal a few days earlier against Burnley in added time.
If Chelsea has scored 12 goals from set pieces in the Premier League this season, plus 7 penalties, the London club has also conceded 14 goals from set pieces (plus one penalty), making it the 4th least performing team in the English league in this area. Rosenior's arrival hasn't helped Chelsea reverse the trend either, since the Londoners have taken 10 goals from set pieces in 13 matches with their new coach, even though five of them were scored by Arsenal, a team truly apart in this area of the game.
"There are some concentration and attention problems that we need to solve. We worked on set pieces all week and, as a coach, that makes the pill even harder to swallow," Rosenior acknowledged after Arsenal/Chelsea. Questioned again on the subject this Monday, the former Strasbourg coach revealed that he had taken the matter in hand in recent days: "It's no small matter, because it's a key element we need to improve. Every coach has a different idea of how to attack and defend set pieces. I will always be honest. I took on more responsibility last week because I know it's something that needs improvement. Bernardo [Cueva] has proven to be an excellent set-piece coach in terms of offensive output. He's among the best in the league. It's not just about coaching. It's also about mentality. It's about concentration and attention. By taking control of this aspect, the manager hopes that, from a mental point of view, it will have added value in how we work."
For PSG, which has scored 10 goals from set pieces (excluding penalties) this season in Ligue 1, this Chelsea weakness will be something to exploit at the Parc des Princes, as it was at Stamford Bridge. The animated end of the match between the two teams last July during the Club World Cup final could also offer us two rather electric encounters, which could potentially play in favor of the Parisians, who top the fair play standings in Ligue 1 and seem more experienced than their opponents in this area.
In the Champions League, PSG has already taken two reds this season (Zabarnyi against Leverkusen and Hernandez against Tottenham), while only one player has been sent off on Chelsea's side on the European stage (Joao Pedro for two yellows against Benfica). The one who best masters his nerves and proves effective on defensive and offensive set pieces will, in any case, probably have great chances of seeing the next round.
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TOPEKA — The opening day of playoff high school basketball has concluded on Tuesday, March 3. Eight teams from Shawnee County were able to dispatch their first-round opponents and advance to the sub-state championship game.
Here’s everything that happened in Tuesday’s first round action.
No. 6 Topeka High (15-8) girls were able to overcome a slow start and dominate No. 11 Maize (10-14) 69-45.
The Trojans trailed 16-9 at the end of the first quarter. Maize was able to nail 3-pointers and tough shots inside the lane. Topeka High’s jump shots couldn’t fall as the team fell out of rhythm.
“It’s why basketball is such a great game,” Topeka High head coach Ron Slaymaker said. “It just fluctuates. Your mentality is fragile and this is a pretty tough group. We played pretty well in two, three and four (periods).”
Sub-State See the brackets for every Shawnee County high school basketball team
Topeka High didn’t panic entering the second quarter. The team’s full-court press worked to perfection. They forced turnover after turnover spearheaded by guard Keimara Marshall. The Trojans went on an 11-0 run to start the quarter, which gave them the lead for the rest of the game.
“If nothing’s going to fall, the least I can do is hustle,” Marshall said. “After the first buzzer hit, I had to pick it up somehow. When we press, we are pressing for everybody. We’ve learned when it’s best to trap and that’s from our chemistry from the past month.”
Topeka High outscored the Eagles 41-24 in the second half. The ball movement was fantastic and interior offense from Sasha Gotru and Hailey Caryl were difference makers. Caryl ended the game with 19 points and 19 rebounds for the double-double.
High school basketball: Hayden girls advance to sub-state title game after Atchison forfeits
“The positive thing is that she is so steady,” Slaymaker said. “She gets it done. She’s not flashy, she just does the job.”
The win over Maize helped Topeka High notch its 10th straight victory dating back to Feb. 3.
The Trojans will go on the road and face No. 3 Liberal (18-3) in the sub-state championship game on Friday, March 6.
Liberal has won 12 of its last 13 games. They defeated Wichita North 59-23 in their first round sub-state game, too.
No. 3 Shawnee Heights (16-8) needed a second-half comeback to defeat United Kansas Conference rival No. 13 De Soto (7-15) in the opening round. The Thunderbirds secured the 49-37 victory on their home court.
Shawnee Heights trailed 25-21 at halftime. The team’s defensive pressure made the difference. The Thunderbirds allowed just six points each in the final two quarters of play. Shawnee Heights closed the game on a 13-4 run in the final seven minutes of action.
It was a breakout outing for freshman Quincy Dixon. He scored a game-high 19 points with 15 of his points coming in the second half.
The Thunderbirds will host the Class 5A sub-state championship game on Friday, March 6. Shawnee Heights will take on another UKC opponent in No. 12 Leavenworth (9-15).
The Pioneers earned an epic comeback victory over No. 5 St. James Academy (13-11) in the first round. Leavenworth went on a 12-0 run in the final 2:20 to defeat the host school 61-60.
Shawnee Heights defeated Leavenworth 60-25 on Jan. 9. The Thunderbirds swept the regular season series 64-47 away from home on Jan. 27.
Last year, Seaman lost this very exact game to Valley Center. This year, they did not want to replicate losing in an upset. The Hornets challenged the Vikings, especially in the first half. But, No. 4 Seaman (20-4) was able to end the game strong taking down No. 13 Valley Center (10-14) 73-51.
Seaman jumped out to a 21-15 lead at the end of the first quarter. The Hornets opened the second quarter on a 9-4 run to cut Seaman’s lead to just 1-point. But, the Vikings never broke. They responded with basket after basket as they held on to a 35-33 halftime lead.
In the second half, Seaman dominated with an 11-0 run out of halftime. The Vikings never trailed in the game, even though Valley Center put up a valiant performance.
It was a big night for Griffin Zuniga, who tied for a team-high 19 points. Seaman’s star guard KaeVon Bonner also finished with 19 points.
Seaman will host the Class 5A sub-state championship game on Friday, March 6. The Vikings will take on No. 5 Hays (19-4). The Indians took down Eisenhower 66-51 in the opening round. Hays is riding a five-game win streak. They have also won 13 of their last 14 games.
Rossville girls kept their season alive by going on the road and knocking off the No. 1 seed in its sub-state bracket.
No. 9 Rossville (13-10) defeated No. 1 Kansas City Christian (19-6) 71-49. The Bulldawgs are playing their best basketball of the season right now. They’ve won 10 of their last 12 games.
Against KCC, the Bulldawgs shot the lights out according to head coach Derek Dick. He told the Capital-Journal it was one of his team’s best performances of the season.
Rossville led 13-12 at the end of the first quarter. It opened the second period on an 11-2 run, which gave it all of the momentum needed to secure the win.
“In the second and third quarter, I think we may have played our best ball of the year,” Dick said. “I haven’t seen the stats yet, but I bet we shot 75% in those quarters. We moved the ball well and played inside-out and got stops on defense.”
Rylee Dick, a senior, led the team with 23 points. Nora Burdiek added 22 points, while freshman Bristol Miller added 16-points.
Derek Dick said that the emergence of Miller has been key during this winning run. The Bulldawgs needed another scoring option after Burdiek and his daughter, Miller has delivered.
In the win, Rylee Dick went over 1,500 points in her career. She is the second-highest scorer in program history.
Rossville will be playing its sub-state championship game at Mission Valley on Friday, Feb. 6. The Bulldawgs will take on No. 4 Maur Hill-Mount Academy (18-7). The Ravens defeated Horton 43-42.
Boys
Girls
Friday, March 6
Boys
Girls
Liam Keating covers high school sports for The Topeka Capital-Journal. Send stats or information to him at Lkeating@gannett.com
This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Eight Shawnee County high school basketball teams advance to sub-state championship
With the regular season winding down, the San Diego State Aztecs are limping — both figuratively and literally — at the wrong time as they dropped the fourth in their last five games, falling 86-77 to Boise State at ExtraMile Arena on Tuesday night.
SDSU (19-10, 13-6 Mountain West) couldn’t overcome runs of 10-plus points in each half that put them in significant holes, while the Broncos (19-11, 11-8) were dominant on the glass and from deep. A 37-15 rebounding edge turned into a 21-3 second chance scoring advantage, as well as 48.0% (12-for-25) shooting from deep kept the Scarlet and Black at arms reach.
Reese Dixon-Waters led the Aztecs with 23 points, while Tae Simmons came off the bench to score 12 points. But both Simmons’ and fellow freshman Elzie Harrington’s three rebounds were the team highs for SDSU, as the Aztecs were unable to grab an offensive rebound until over five and a half minutes into the second half.
Playing the game with a sleeve on his right leg, Miles Byrd was bothered by his knee according to the television broadcast after missing a dunk in the first half. Magoon Gwath did not play the final 11 minutes of the game, heading to the bench a pair of possessions after he got tangled up with and went bowling into the Bronco bench with SDSU’s nemesis for the night, Drew Fielder, which saw both receive technical fouls.
Fielder came off the bench to score 33 points, 21 in the second half, grab a game-high nine rebounds, hit 3 of 4 from downtown and make nearly as many free throws (16 of 18) as the entire San Diego State team (17 of 20).
He was one of a quartet of Broncos that scored in double figures. Javan Buchanan scored 17 points, Dylan Andrews added 13 points and Andrew Meadow had 12 points with three made from beyond the arc.
Boise State used a 12-0 run just over two minutes into the second half to blow the game open, taking a 20-point lead that grew as large as 21 when Fielder hit a trey with 12:32 remaining.
But the Aztecs began to drip-drip-drip their way back within reach, going on a 12-2 run that had Dixon-Waters score 5 points on a pair of jumpers, the last which went for an and-one and trimmed the deficit to 11 just past the midway mark.
SDSU’s final kick came to pull within 7 points thanks to a 6-0 spurt off layups by Harrington and Simmons, then Byrd knocking down a pair of free throws. It would be 7 points against when both Fielder and Simmons split free throw opportunities, but a triple from the top of the key by Andrews with 3:12 remaining pushed the lead back to 10 points and gave the Broncos the momentum to finish.
The Andrews trey was one of two field goals by Boise State over the final 7:45 of the game, as they scored 12 of their final 17 points from the line. Fielder and Andrews combined to score the final 21 points for the Broncos.
The 3-point barrage began early, as after Buchanan opened the game with a layup, the next three Boise State baskets came from distance with Buchanan starting it off. Dixon-Waters answered a RJ Keene triple with one of his own after Miles Heide opened the scoring for SDSU.
Then Meadow hit a long ball to start a 14-0 run, putting SDSU down 22-5 just past the midway mark of the opening half thanks to the Aztecs missing nine straight from the field. Four of the Bronco buckets on the run were 3’s, coming from four different players.
BJ Davis started the Scarlet and Black response with a layup, with Dixon-Waters and Byrd each hitting a 3-pointer and Dixon-Waters punctuating what was then a 12-0 run with a rare dunk. It trimmed the deficit to 5 points with 6:20 before the break.
But after a steal, Byrd missed a dunk and appeared to be in pain turning back up the floor, with a Meadow paint bucket stopping the Aztecs’ push. The SDSU senior was substituted out at the next whistle and went to the locker room, but returned to play the final 99 seconds of the first half.
SDSU had trimmed the deficit down to 7 points after Taj DeGourville made a turnaround jumper, then stole the ball and set up Pharaoh Compton for a transition alley-oop jam. Spencer Ahrens missed a 3-ball on the ensuing possession, but Sean Newman Jr. was called for a loose ball foul on the rebound.
It enabled Fielder to make a pair of free throws, part of him scoring 7 of Boise State’s final 8 points in the half. A make with five seconds remaining by Davis had SDSU behind 34-27 at the horn.
With their regular season title hopes all but dashed, the Aztecs close out the regular season against UNLV needing to build momentum heading into the Mountain West Tournament and ensure they retain a top four seed and a bye to the quarterfinals.
Tipoff against the Runnin’ Rebels is slated for 7 p.m. on Friday, March 6 at Viejas Arena, and the game will be televised on CBS Sports Network with a local radio broadcast on 760 AM.
Things went from bad to worse for Kansas basketball on Tuesday, in a 70-60 loss on the road against Arizona State that ultimately saw Sun Devils fans rush the court postgame.
The first half saw the Jayhawks lose head coach Bill Self to an ejection, after he appeared to be arguing a foul call made on KU freshman Darryn Peterson, and trail by 20 points at halftime. The second half saw Kansas battle back, only to fall away late and lose by 10 points. It makes two-straight losses for the No. 15 Jayhawks (21-9, 11-6 in Big 12) in Big 12 Conference play, after a loss recently on the road against now-No. 2 Arizona.
RELATED: Kansas basketball vs Arizona State final score, highlights: KU loses
It looked like Kansas assistant coach Jacque Vaughn, a former NBA head coach, took over for Self following his ejection. However, Vaughn’s leadership wasn’t enough to help guide the Jayhawks back to a win in Tempe, Arizona. As much as it might look like a positive that three KU players finished with double doubles, in senior Tre White, sophomore Flory Bidunga and freshman Darryn Peterson, none of them were near efficient enough shooting the ball for that to matter and Peterson especially struggled.
Kansas now has to look ahead to a regular season finale Saturday at home against rival Kansas State. Although the Jayhawks beat Kansas State earlier this season on the road, whatever confidence that might have given KU won’t do that team any good now after the disappointments of recent days. Kansas needs to reflect on what’s happened of late, because very soon a lackluster effort like this will be one that ends a season in postseason play.
Jordan Guskey covers University of Kansas Athletics at The Topeka Capital-Journal. He was the 2022 National Sports Media Association’s sportswriter of the year for the state of Kansas. Contact him at jmguskey@gannett.com or on Twitter at @JordanGuskey.
This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Arizona State fans rush court after upsetting Kansas basketball in win
The Chargers are predicted to draft an offensive lineman and edge rusher, according to ESPN's Jordan Reid, who released his latest two-round projections.
In the first round, Reid has the Chargers drafting Kadyn Proctor from Alabama.
Proctor played left tackle for the Crimson Tide, but he can kick inside to guard. With Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt returning from injury, Proctor would also be able to play his natural position in a pinch. He is a people-mover who can immediately supply interior protection for Justin Herbert.
The poor performance of the offensive line in 2025 is no secret, and with general manager Joe Hortiz's remarks about protecting Herbert, prioritizing the unit this high in the draft aligns.
Here's what Reid had to say about Proctor and why he's a good fit for the Bolts:
The Chargers' interior offensive line struggled last season and could look a lot different, with guard Zion Johnson a free agent and Mekhi Becton a potential cap casualty after an injury-riddled season. There was a true 50-50 split among scouts at the combine on the 6-foot-7, 352-pound Proctor, with some thinking he was a first-rounder and others seeing him as a Day 2 prospect. There is also debate on his position, with Proctor playing tackle in college but able to kick inside to guard. But even if he's at guard in the pros, he would provide the Chargers with insurance at tackle after they lost Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater to season-ending injuries in 2025.
In the second round of the draft, Reid has the Chargers taking edge Derrick Moore out of Michigan with the No. 55 overall pick.
The future of Odafe Oweh and Khalil Mack is up in the air. The Chargers could bring at least one of them back, but it's imperative they add a high-upside player to complement Tuli Tuipulotu. Moore brings juice as a pass rusher, as evidenced by 78 pressures and 14 sacks in his final two seasons for the Wolverines.
The Chargers' drafting of Proctor and Moore directly addressed two of the team's biggest needs on both sides of the ball. While the Bolts have over $87 million in cap space this offseason, the team will look to bolster the roster through the draft.
Once the NFL free agency window opens on March 11, the Chargers will make it known where exactly they plan to spend big money this spring.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: ESPN predicts Chargers to draft OL, EDGE in first two rounds
The Ottawa Senators looked like they had a W in the bank on Tuesday night but the Edmonton Oilers had other ideas. Down 4-2 in the third, the Oilers blew past the Senators for a 5-4 overtime win.
With Brady Tkachuk off for pretty much tackling Connor McDavid to prevent an odd man rush in overtime, Evan Bouchard's one-timer from the top of the circle gave Edmonton the win.
Leon Draisaitl was in all the scoring with five points, two goals and three assists. His countryman Tim Stutzle was the best player for the Sens with two assists. Drake Batherson scored twice for the Sens, who were outshot 37-21. Linus Ullmark made 32 saves.
The two clubs traded a pair of goals each in a fast-paced first period. Dylan Cozens opened the scoring 3:34 into the game with a fierce wrist shot. But less than 90 seconds later, after Ullmark coughed up a puck that looked like he had smothered, Leon Draisaitl capitalized to tie the game.
Just over 90 seconds after that, Batherson restored Ottawa’s lead with a perfect wrist shot high to the glove side. However, the Oilers tied it again at the 16:48 mark on a bizarre play. Batherson tried to clear a loose puck out of harm’s way, but his attempt bounced off teammate Nick Jensen and into the Ottawa net. Draisaitl was credited with the goal.
Batherson quickly atoned early in the second period, scoring his second of the night on another excellent wrist shot at the 4:30 mark. Just 41 seconds later, after a wild goalmouth scramble, the puck squirted out to Jensen, who made a clever pass to Michael Amadio. His quick snapshot made it 4–2 Senators.
From there, as the Oilers pushed to get back into the game, the Senators seemed to sit back and not stick with what had made them successful.
In the first minute of the third period, Shane Pinto gift-wrapped an opportunity for the Oilers to climb back into the game when, completely unforced, he lobbed the puck over the glass for a delay-of-game penalty. The Oilers made them pay, cutting the lead to 4–3.
It initially appeared that Leon Draisaitl had deposited his hat-trick goal into an open net, but the puck actually caromed off the skate blade of Ryan Nugent-Hopkins.
In the dying moments, with the Oilers’ goalie pulled, Edmonton benefited from a very suspect icing call that should have been waved off. The faceoff came back into the Ottawa zone with tired Senators on the ice, and Zach Hyman scored the tying goal right in his office battling near the crease.
In three-on-three overtime, Tim Stützle and Brady Tkachuk failed to capitalize on a 2-on-1 rush and both were caught up ice. The Oilers broke out the other way and Tkachuk was called for holding on Connor McDavid. On the ensuing four-on-three power play, Evan Bouchard’s point shot beat Ullmark, who was caught deep in his net.
Losing the extra point was big because the Boston Bruins and Columbus Blue Jackets both won their games on Tuesday night, leaving the Senators six points out of a wild card spot.
The Senators continue their road trip Thursday night when they visit the Calgary Flames.
Steve Warne
The Hockey News
For the better part of the past few decades, it’s seemed as if no one has wanted to play for the Cleveland Browns. For better or worse, however, somebody has to. Just don’t ask Todd McShay about the possibility of his favorite prospect, Ty Simpson, having to be one of those poor, unfortunate souls.
Despite some of the question marks surrounding the Alabama product, McShay is still willing to advocate for him ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. Although now that he’s heard folks starting to ask, “Could he go as high as Cleveland, who’s sitting there at sixth?” he isn’t so sure that he wants to see a Simpson selection on night one.
“I hope, for Ty Simpson, he does not become a Cleveland Brown,” McShay told FanDuel TV’s Kay Adams. “They don’t have the protection, they don’t have the weapons.”
According to McShay, the most favorable outcome for Simpson, or any rookie quarterback for that matter, lies in becoming the heir to Matthew Stafford’s throne in Los Angeles. “I’d love to see him with the Rams. They pick at 13 with the first of their two picks,” he suggested.
Throw in the sheer amount of adversity that Simpson has also faced throughout the past calendar year, and it certainly seems as if a favorable landing spot, like L.A., could serve as a bit of reward for having survived the SEC’s roughest and toughest.
“It’s fascinating to see a guy who has gastritis, got beat up all year long, his number one wide receiver disappeared in Ryan Williams… It all fell apart at the end of the year, but through nine games, I will make this statement, and I will stand on it; Ty Simpson’s tape is better than Fernando Mendoza’s.”
While that last bit will likely prove to be McShay’s hottest take of the entire offseason, he could end up getting the proof that he’s been looking for should the Rams actually decide to draft Simpson. The Las Vegas Raiders, who have the number one overall pick and are all but guaranteed to spend it on Mendoza, are actually scheduled to host Los Angeles for a regular season outing at some point in 2026.
Much like Shedeur Sander’s Week 14 match-up against Cam Ward, a Mendoza-Simpson head-to-head battle would help to dismiss, or vindicate, a lot of the pre-draft claims that have been made by both fans and analysts alike. In other words, McShay may want to be careful about what he asks for here, because he might just get even more than he had initially thought to be possible.
The post “I’d Love to See Him With the Rams”: Todd McShay Urges Ty Simpson Not to Join the Browns appeared first on The SportsRush.
NEWARK, N.J. (AP) — U.S. Olympic golden goal-scorer Jack Hughes extended his points streak to four games since returning from Milan, and the New Jersey Devils dealt the Florida Panthers’ playoff hopes another blow by beating the two-time defending Stanley Cup champions 5-1 on Tuesday night.
Hughes’ shot that went wide banked right to Dougie Hamilton for his goal. Hughes has four assists — one in each game — since the NHL season resumed.
Hamilton, whose name has been involved in trade buzz for several months, also had an assist. It’s unclear if the Devils will be able to move the defenseman before the deadline Friday, given that Hamilton has two years remaining on his contract beyond this season at a $9 million salary cap hit and is owed a $7.4 million roster bonus on July 1.
If New Jersey, which looks out of the race, sells elsewhere, depth forward Cody Glass may have boosted his value by scoring his 14th goal of the season. Arseny Gritsyuk also scored, looking off Hughes on a 2 on 1 before beating Sergei Bobrovsky, who was excellent early and finished with 28 saves on 31 shots.
Florida is in danger of becoming the first Cup-winning team to miss the playoffs the following season since the Los Angeles Kings in 2014-15. The Panthers have lost three of four games since the Olympics ended, all of those coming in regulation.
MAMMOTH 3, CAPITALS 2
WASHINGTON (AP) — JJ Peterka scored in the second period on a bizarre bounce, and Utah beat Washington.
Dylan Guenther and Mikhail Sergachev scored for the Mammoth, who took an early 2-0 lead and held off the Capitals in a matchup of teams near the playoff cutoff lines. Utah entered the night tied with Edmonton for the top wild card in the Western Conference.
Pierre-Luc Dubois and Ryan Leonard scored for Washington, which fell to four points behind Boston for the second wild card in the East. The Bruins also have three more games left than the Caps.
The Capitals have been hoping to add a forward before Friday’s trade deadline, and with Aliaksei Protas out for personal reasons Tuesday, they struggled to apply consistent pressure in the Utah zone until they were down two in the third. It’s not clear if Washington’s position in the standings — and losses to Montreal and the Mammoth in its last two games — will alter the team’s approach to the deadline.
SABRES 3, GOLDEN KNIGHTS 2
BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) — Tage Thompson scored after being honored for helping the U.S. win an Olympic gold medal in hockey, and Buffalo won its fourth straight game by beating Vegas.
Owen Power and Jason Zucker also scored for the surging Sabres. Buffalo improved to 25-5-2 in its past 32, and its 35 wins through 61 games are the team’s most since having 41 over the same span in 2006-07.
Alex Lyon made 29 saves to improve to 13-2 in his past 15 starts.
Pavel Dorofeyev, with his team-leading 29th goal, and Ivan Barbashev scored and Vegas matched a season-low by losing three straight in regulation. The slumping Golden Knights also dropped to 4-8-2 in their past 14.
Akira Schmid stopped 25 shots.
BRUINS 2, PENGUINS 1
BOSTON (AP) — Marat Khusnutdinov and Casey Mittelstadt scored less than a minute apart early in the first period and Boston held on for a victory over Pittsburgh.
Pittsburgh’s Erik Karlsson scored just 42 seconds into the game, but Khusnutdinov tied it at 1-1 when he snapped the puck high inside the far post past Penguins goalie Stuart Skinner for his 13th goal of the season at 5:10 of the first.
Mittelstadt added his 13th of the season 50 seconds later when he gathered in the rebound of Nikita Zadorov’s shot and fired past a diving Skinner and into an open net. Jeremy Swayman made 34 saves.
Karlsson scored on the Penguins’ first shot on goal after the Bruins had two excellent scoring chances in the first few seconds requiring solid saves by Skinner. The Bruins challenged for goalie interference but the goal was upheld. Skinner finished with 26 saves.
BLUE JACKETS 3, PREDATORS 2
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Damon Severson broke a tie with a snap shot from the point through traffic at 6:07 of the third period and Columbus beat Nashville to open a four-game homestand.
Both teams played Monday night, with Columbus beating the Rangers 5-4 in overtime in New York, and Nashville falling 4-2 at home to Detroit.
Adam Fantilli and Sean Monahan also scored for Columbus, with Monahan tying it at 2 at 1:52 of the third with a short-handed goal. He also had a short-handed goal Monday in New York.
Jet Greaves made 20 saves for Columbus in 51:44, missing an 8:16 stretch of the first period because of concussion protocol after Nick Blankenburg caught him with an elbow on the side of the head on a rush. Elvis Merzlikins stopped both shots on faced before Greaves returned.
Filip Forsberg had a power-play goal for Nashville, and Ryan O’Reilly was credited with a goal in the second that a Columbus player put in. O’Reilly was cut below the eye taking a faceoff midway through the third.
Justus Annunen stopped 24 shots for the Predators.
JETS 3, BLACKHAWKS 2, OT
WINNIPEG, Manitoba (AP) — Mark Scheifele scored at 2:06 of overtime to lift Winnipeg to a victory over Chicago.
Cole Perfetti forced the extra frame for Winnipeg, tying the game 2-2 with just 38.6 seconds remaining in regulation. Dylan Samberg, who assisted on Scheifele’s winner, also scored in the first period for the Jets, who went to overtime for the fourth consecutive game.
Teuvo Teravainen and Ryan Greene scored for Chicago. Connor Bedard picked up two assists.
Connor Hellebuyck made 18 saves for the victory. Spencer Knight stopped 29 shots for the Blackhawks.
The Jets pulled Hellebuyck for the extra attacker and netted the equalizer when Perfetti buried the late chance. The goal validated a second-period line shuffle that had Perfetti placed on a line with Adam Lowry and Gabriel Vilardi.
By forcing the extra frame, the Jets went to overtime for the fourth consecutive game. It was a crucial late push to grab two points as they kicked off a critical eight-game homestand.
STARS 6, FLAMES 1
CALGARY, Alberta (AP) — Sam Steel scored twice and added an assist and Dallas extended its franchise-record winning streak to 10 games with a romp over Calgary.
Jamie Benn, Mavrik Bourque, Nathan Bastian and Wyatt Johnston also scored to help Dallas improve to 38-14-9. Matt Duchene had four assists giving him a team-best 17 points (eight goals, nine assists) during the winning streak.
Steel and Duchene tied career highs for points in a game, and Steel tied a career high with 10 goals. He also had 10 times for Minnesota in 2022-23.
Casey DeSmith made 20 saves to improve to 13-4-5.
Flames starter Dustin Wolf was pulled after giving up four goals on 17 shots. Devin Cooley made 16 saves in relief.
PICKFORD – The Pickford Panthers will have an opportunity to capture a second consecutive regional championship when they arrive in Cheboygan on Thursday night.
Leading 37-31 after one half of play, the Panthers took control over the final two quarters and claimed a 72-47 victory over Rudyard in an MHSAA Division 4 boys basketball regional semifinal at Sault Ste. Marie on Tuesday, March 3.
PICKFORD WINS DISTRICT TITLE: Pickford boys basketball gets tested in title win over St. Ignace
NMCA BEATS HILLMAN, CHEBOYGAN FALLS: NMCA boys march on to first regional final, Cheboygan's season ends
Senior Gunner Bennin poured in a game-high 32 points to lead the undefeated Panthers (24-0), who outscored the Bulldogs 35-16 in the second half. Pickford also received double-digit scoring performances from Carter Yiirs (13 points), Mason Andrzejak (12 points) and Mac Collins (10). Carter Rye chipped in with five points.
Jaxon Clark’s 21 points paced Rudyard (14-11), which received eight points from Ty LaLone and six from Steven Kirschner.
Pickford faces Burt Lake Northern Michigan Christian Academy (17-7) in a 7 p.m. regional championship matchup at Cheboygan on Thursday, March 5. Burt Lake NMCA earned a come-from-behind 55-47 victory at Hillman in its regional semifinal on Tuesday, March 3.
Last year, Pickford earned its first regional crown since 1992 by beating Harbor Light in Cheboygan.
Contact sports editor Jared Greenleaf at jgreenleaf@gannett.com. Follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter @sportsCDT
This article originally appeared on Cheboygan Daily Tribune: Bennin, Pickford boys basketball beat Rudyard in regional semifinal
Noblesville – It is good to have seniors when the calendar turns to March.
Especially when his name is Baron Walker. Or Landon Osswald.
Osswald, the Hamilton Southeastern senior, drained two big 3-pointers to start the fourth quarter on his way to a 23-point, nine-rebound effort in a 68-61 win over Westfield in the nightcap of the Class 4A Sectional 8 first round on Tuesday night.
“Watching us every year, I wanted to get to that stage and win a sectional game,” said Osswald, referring to Hamilton Southeastern winning its first sectional game in five years.
The stage will be even bigger and brighter on Friday night when HSE (15-9) plays Mudsock rival and top-ranked Fishers (23-0) in the sectional semifinal. Fishers defeated HSE 68-61 on Dec. 19, which feels like ancient history.
The Royals will take an eight-game winning streak and a lot of confidence into the Mudsock rematch. HSE’s balance and versatility make them difficult to defend. Osswald led the Royals in scoring but was helped by a big night from standout sophomore Varschon Clark, who finished with 18 points, and senior Luke Weemer’s 12 points and eight rebounds.
The Royals took a punch from Westfield (13-9), which turned an 11-point first-half deficit into a three-point lead into the fourth quarter. But the Royals did not flinch.
“I think our guys over the past five, six weeks have started to compete at a higher level,” first-year HSE coach Bobby Allen. “Being a new coach, trying to come in and make some changes and get the guys to respond the way we want them to respond was difficult early. We’ve found something lately where I think guys are starting to play a little more loose and with confidence. They are willing to share the ball because they know we have guys who can score at any given moment.”
That includes Kian Kelly, a Butler football recruit who made his only basket of the game on a tip-in with under 2 minutes remaining to give the Royals the lead at 60-59. Clark scored on a coast-to-coast layup on the next HSE possession and the Royals pulled away from there.
“The fact that he’s willing to go out and be a part of this just shows the type of competitor that he is,” Allen said of Kelly. “That play right there where he tips it in for us, sums up the group right now – the energy they have and the fact that they want to continue playing basketball.”
Westfield was led by seniors Brock Detamore (18 points, seven rebounds) and Drew Haffner (17). Haffner fouled out with 51 seconds remaining.
“There were just a couple plays down the stretch,” Westfield coach Shane Sumpter said. “We had two possessions where it just goes off our hands. We had a shot go in and out. We just couldn’t make the plays down the stretch, which has kind of been a theme for us this year in close games. It was a typical Sectional 8 game, though. The final score was not indicative of the game.”
The first game was also closely contested after it appeared Noblesville was going to run away and hide early, leading 15-2 barely five minutes in. But Zionsville methodically bounced back, taking its first lead on a 3-pointer by Nicholas Snively with 2:27 left.
Enter Baron Walker.
The Noblesville senior drained a 3-pointer from the left wing to give the Millers a two-point lead. After Rylan Gore tied it 38-38 with 1:43 left, Walker put the Millers ahead to stay on a three-point play with 1:17 remaining. Noblesville coach Scott McClelland described those plays by Walker as “winning plays.”
“I thought the kids really showed some true resilience and resolve there in the fourth quarter, even after Zionsville took the lead,” Noblesville coach Scott McClelland said. “Tip your hat to them. They had some guys make some shots. I’m just proud of our guys. They showed some true grit and true toughness. Wins in March are never easy.”
He added of Walker: “He’s played really well these last four or five games. We’ve going to need him to play really well on Friday night.”
Noblesville will play No. 10 Carmel (16-5) in the first semifinal on Friday night. The Greyhound knocked off the Millers 64-52 back on Dec. 12. Noblesville is playing shorthanded without senior Justin Curry, is sidelined with a torn ACL.
But the Millers (13-10) are dangerous, especially at home. Max Flanagan drilled a couple of 3-pointers in the fourth quarter to provide just enough offense to back Walker. Noblesville won despite scoring just 10 points combined in the second and third quarters.
“Max is a big key to this team, especially his shooting ability,” Walker said. “For him to come down and hit two big threes, that’s what we needed.”
Camden Moore led Zionsville (13-11) with 19 points.
Call Star reporter Kyle Neddenriep at (317) 444-6649.Get IndyStar's high school coverage sent directly to your inbox with the High School Sports newsletter. And be sure to subscribe to our new IndyStarTV: Preps YouTube channel.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: IHSAA basketball: Noblesville, HSE advance in Sectional 8 at Noblesville
When BYU named Lee Cummard as its new women’s basketball head coach last March, the former Cougar All-American guard pledged to live up to the school’s winning tradition and commitment to excellence.
A year later, it’s safe to say he’s done just that.
Cummard’s Cougars wrapped up the regular season this past weekend with a 20-10 record, marking the program’s first 20-win campaign in four years.
After going 10-26 against Big 12 opponents over the past two seasons since joining the conference, BYU currently holds a 9-9 mark in league play to earn the 9 seed in the Big 12 tournament, where the Cougars will face 16-seeded Houston on Wednesday (12:30 p.m. MST on ESPN+).
Should BYU advance, it would set the stage for a rivalry matchup with Utah Thursday in the tournament’s second round.
But more importantly, defeating Houston on Wednesday would be the Cougars’ first-ever victory in a Big 12 tournament game, adding another measure of progress in Cummard’s debut campaign.
BYU opened the regular season on a 12-1 tear and closed with a three-game win streak. The Cougars swept the regular season series with Utah, handed 15-0 Arizona State its first loss of the season and scored an upset win over No. 19 Texas Tech.
A 2-6 midseason stretch has BYU sitting on the wrong side of the NCAA tournament bubble, currently listed among the “next four out” on ESPN’s bracketology and needing to both win a few games in Kansas City and receive some outside help in order to break into the bracket.
However, the Cougars have four wins over projected tournament teams and are 7-1 against fellow bubble squads, with the only loss coming against Colorado, which they then beat in a rematch two weeks later.
Even if BYU is left out of the tournament, it would be difficult to label Year 1 of the Cummard era as anything but a slam dunk, with the Cougars clearly a team on the rise going forward.
A whopping 72% of BYU’s total points have come from freshmen and sophomore players, with the number jumping to 86.8% when counting players with remaining eligibility to return next year — and that’s not including current redshirt Kailey Woolston, who averaged 13 points per game as a freshman before leaving on a church mission.
The Cougars have thrived off the court as well, posting a 3.53 team GPA during fall semester, their highest mark since 2020.
“I think that we have a pretty solid foundation,” Cummard told the Deseret News. “I love the group that we’ve put together for this year, I love the staff that we’ve put together and love the buy-in from everybody involved.
“I think if we can continue to have success, Cougar Nation will get behind us even more because of who these athletes are. They’ve got great stories. They’re great individuals. The buy-in is tremendous because of who’s around the program.”
There’s a line in Cummard’s own scouting report as a high school recruit that’s rather telling:
“Plays with an intensity level that’s rare among high school players.”
Such intensity stood out when he was in college as well. Cummard was a great shooter, but his toughness, hustle and grit made him special.
“His passion for success, his passion for this school is second to none. He has always had a burning desire to play and win for the name across the chest, not for the name on the back,” said BYU women’s chief of staff John Wardenburg, who coached on BYU’s men’s staff during Cummard’s playing career.
“When he was a player here, he didn’t care if he scored two points or if he scored 20. What mattered was the final score at the end. Every day, that feeling exudes from him out into our team, and it’s a really positive thing.”
Cummard’s intangibles on the hardwood haven’t disappeared since he hung up his sneakers — they’ve followed him to the sideline.
“He’s very competitive. You saw it when he was a player, and that’s obviously carried along with him not just for basketball but for everything and anything he does,” said BYU guard Arielle Mackey-Williams. “I think what stems from that is how he genuinely wants everyone — his players and coaches — to get better. I think that’s really important for a coach to give that to us as players. We can feel that belief that he has and that he instills in us.
“He’s always teaching us that the game of basketball is just a game of trying to create the advantage. I feel like he always says that. We’re trying to create the advantage offensively to create shots for whoever’s open, and then defensively, too, it’s just that gritty, tough, defensive style that he’s taught us.”
One of the “advantages” Cummard has created for himself is working to build strong, meaningful relationships with everyone around him, something he pursues with the same doggedness he used to display when attacking the rim.
“I think he does a good job at connecting with each and every one of us how we like to be connected with, if that makes sense,” BYU guard Marya Hudgins said. “If there’s one girl who’s maybe a bit more quiet and has an interest in something that he doesn’t know much about, he goes out of his way to make sure that he’s connecting with them about that thing.
“For example, I’m a very outgoing, joking person. Him and I connect by doing that exact thing. So he just does a good job at kind of getting to know us personally and then connecting with us on that level, so doesn’t feel forced or anything like that. It’s more authentic to who we are.”
Cummard’s relationship skills paid immediate dividends for BYU upon his hiring.
When Amber Whiting parted ways with the program, uncertainty engulfed the roster. The Cougars appeared to be in danger of losing key pieces from their core and subsequently need to build a team from the ground up.
Cummard, however, managed to retain 80% of BYU’s players with remaining eligibility.
“When I play for Lee, I want to play and provide everything that I can, because he has so much belief in me and my teammates and what we can be,” said Hudgins, who was one of BYU’s key holdovers. “He knows how to bring out the absolute best in us.”
Another returning player with similar feelings was Delaney Gibb, the reigning Big 12 Freshman of the Year. Her loyalty to Cummard has resulted in 17.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 2.0 steals per game for the Cougars as a sophomore.
“Once they hired Lee, I knew I wanted to stay here,” Gibb said. “I’ve known him for a very long time. He’s someone that has built a lot of confidence in me, and I know that he sees my potential and the type of player that I can be. He’s someone that I knew was going to hold our program to a high standard, he’s so competitive and he wants to win. Those were all things that I loved.
“He holds us to high standards and we aim for excellence, not even just on the basketball court, but as individuals, as students, he wants to hold us to the highest standards. Every single day coming into practice, that’s what we’re going to do.”
BYU’s current second-leading scorer, Olivia Hamlin, was committed out to Nebraska out of high school but flipped to BYU over the summer, citing Cummard’s hiring as a major reason why.
Additionally, 4-star prospect Sydney Benally maintained her pledge to the Cougars after flipping from Princeton thanks in part to Cummard. Since then, she’s started every game of her freshman season and leads the team in assists.
Woolston was serving her mission in Maryland at the time of the coaching change. The 46% 3-point shooter originally elected to enter the transfer portal, stay there for the rest of her mission and figure out her next school after returning home.
But much like Gibb, once Cummard got the job, Woolston was back in for BYU, withdrawing from the portal and rejoining the program at midseason as a redshirt at the conclusion of her service.
“I really like the way that he’s been recruiting,” Woolston said. “We have a super young team right now. We have a ton of freshmen and sophomores.
“As Lee continues to add people who want to be here for four years, who will stay and give their all and be able to continue developing, we’ll see a lot of success in these coming years.”
Cummard couldn’t have picked two better coaching mentors.
He played four years at BYU under the legendary Dave Rose, then broke into coaching by spending three seasons on Rose’s staff from 2016-19.
Upon joining the BYU women’s program, Cummard served as an assistant for another legend in Jeff Judkins for the final three seasons of Judkins’ decorated 21-year run with the Cougars.
Rose and Judkins won a combined 804 games at BYU, so it’s no wonder why Cummard lovingly refers to them as the “GOATs” of Cougar basketball.
“Those two are synonymous with basketball at BYU,” Cummard said. “I was really fortunate to have that (time with them), and I try to blend both of their styles.”
But Rose and Judkins are far from Cummard’s only influences. He constantly searches for coaching inspiration around him, hungry to add every possible best practice to his operation.
In 20 minutes spent with this writer, Cummard mentioned Michigan State’s Tom Izzo as one of his favorite coaches to observe, while also weaving sayings and strategies belonging to college football’s Curt Cignetti and Kenny Dillingham throughout the conversation as well.
Cummard brought up BYU’s longtime women’s soccer coach Jen Rockwood, pondering aloud what can be applied from her team’s recent improbable postseason run to his women’s basketball squad.
“When I watch a game, a lot of the time I’m watching the demeanor of the coach, and I’m evaluating how they are in the huddle,” Cummard said.
“I’m trying to absorb what I can, whether it’s about Xs and Os, leading people, managing people, player interaction, player relationships, demeanor in a timeout at the end of a game, how they work the officials. That’s my realm now, and I’m trying to be the best version of that.”
Even as the head of BYU’s program, Cummard is just as much a student as he is a teacher, refusing to put himself above others and instead searching for whatever inspiration can be found from those in his same gym.
“He’s always gathering everyone’s input, whether it’s from the other coaches or even us,” Hudgins said. “He does a great job at getting our opinions or input on things. I just really appreciate how it’s just not his way or the highway, because I know that could be really frustrating to work with and also play for.”
“He’s very collaborative with his assistant coaches,” added Paisley Harding, a former Cougars star now in her first year as a BYU assistant. “He always wants to understand and know what his assistant coaches and staff members feel. I appreciate that a lot.”
Let’s rewind for a minute.
Two days after Thanksgiving in 2021, the undefeated Cougars were in the midst of a dogfight against No. 22 West Virginia. The St. Pete’s Showcase tournament title was on the line, but Judkins was nowhere near the BYU bench. He remained back in Utah, having tested positive for COVID-19.
Thus, Cummard was thrust into action as Judkins’ interim replacement, foreshadowing his head coaching future in the process.
Judkins-less BYU had already won two games under Cummard, walloping Utah State at home before scoring an upset of No. 17 Florida State in the showcase opener less than 48 hours earlier.
Plenty of young coaches filling in for a legend would have cracked under the pressure of trying to topple a second ranked foe in a three day span.
According to Harding, Cummard wasn’t one of them.
“We’re tied late, and Lee brings us in and instills this confidence in us,” Harding said. “He goes, ‘Are you guys ready to win? Let’s go win.’ He was just the perfect person for the job to step in for Juddy in those situations, and it just shows how trusted he was by our team. I love looking back on that with him getting the same opportunity now.”
BYU did end up getting the win over West Virginia, and the Cougars have continued to stack victories since Cummard became their permanent head coach nearly a year ago.
While Harding says Cummard hasn’t drastically changed in the time between playing for and now coaching with him, she believes he’s shown plenty of encouraging growth to benefit him in his current role.
“He’s still just his same fun-loving self, but at the same time, he brings a lot of intensity to the gym every every time he’s in there and he expects a lot from his players. He played at a very high level, so he knows what it takes to be on good teams,” Harding said.
“Coach Judkins is just such a special person in my eyes, so it’s very fun to see Juddy pass the torch to Lee ... I feel like the program is in really good hands with Coach Lee leading the way.”
Harding isn’t the only player from that West Virginia win to end up on Cummard’s staff. Kaylee Smiler, a Cougars guard from 2018-24, recently returned to BYU as a graduate assistant, with the opportunity to work with Cummard “obviously” factoring into her decision.
“I just think Lee is ready to take this team the next level,” Smiler said. “All the girls have their heads towards the Big 12 (tournament) and to March Madness. He’s a true leader. When he became a head coach, me and Paisley, we had to jump in on this because we know that this program will be successful with him on board.
“I love the environment (in Cummard’s program). I get in there, and it’s just light, it’s uplifting, everyone’s welcoming each other, and I know that the source of it is Lee.”
As a highly-touted recruit coming out of Mesa High in Arizona, Cummard didn’t expect to end up at BYU.
But after touring various programs and campuses, he felt the pull to Provo for one specific reason — to “try to become the man I think I’m supposed to be.”
Cummard and BYU ended up being a perfect match, with more than 1,500 career points, three Mountain West Conference titles and plenty of other accolades to show for it, in addition to sticking around for the past 10 years as a Cougars coach.
Through coaching, Cummard seeks to help others receive what he was given at BYU.
It’s his “Y.”
“I feel a huge responsibility to give these athletes a great college experience,” Cummard said. “... One of the things that Coach Judkins said was that he always made decisions based on the players. If it was going to be best for the players, that’s what he wanted.
“I think that if the athletes are having a great experience, it’s gonna manifest itself on the court in their play, in their camaraderie, and what they want for the group.”
BYU is undoubtedly different from other schools. The mission and purpose of the university are unique. Standards of personal conduct are higher. For some, the culture may require adjusting to.
But for those who choose BYU and can appreciate what it has to offer, Cummard feels they will catch the vision and experience significant joy.
“Players that embrace BYU, even if they don’t have a tie to this place, it just seems to go really well for them and for their teams as well,” Cummard said. “Over the course of the last 20, 25 years, I think the best teams here are teams that loved BYU. You saw it last year with men’s basketball, you see it year in and year out from women’s soccer, women’s volleyball, men’s volleyball and football, where you have guys that want to be here and just be part of Cougar Nation.
“There’s an extra concentration of, ‘I’m in this for something bigger than just me.’ We feel like this is a premier place to play in the country. We really push our athletes to strive to succeed in the classroom. There’s a standard that we want for the team that everybody’s on board with, and we feel that it impacts winning on the court and winning in life as well.”
Cummard’s players clearly love BYU, but their love for each other stands out as well.
It’s a tight-knit group — the Cougars are as united as they are young, even when so many of them have come from different backgrounds or have taken different paths to Provo.
“The girls have really done a great job of welcoming everyone into their life,” Wardenburg said. “I mean, you look at our roster, and we have girls from Africa, a few Canadians. Lara Rohkohl is German, Sydney (Benally) is Native American. We have girls from a lot of areas in the United States, and every one of those girls is special in their own way, they bring things culturally and socially that all of us can learn from.
“There’s no doubt that teams take on the persona of their boss, and that’s one thing Lee is really good at — welcoming you and making you feel good."
Cummard hasn’t needed to go out of his way to force or manufacture team chemistry. Being intentional about recruiting high character players who buy into and embrace BYU’s uniqueness has made all chemistry-related matters quite natural.
“Lee and his staff have brought in the right people who they know will just get along,” Hudgins said. “They’re doing a great job of getting great people, and it’s hard for great people to not gel with other great people.
“Having a staff and a team that’s filled with authentic, true-to-themselves people, it just makes us so much better.”
By now, Cummard’s main philosophy seems obvious — “When you get the right people together, and they’re enjoying each other off the court and doing the right things off the court, it manifests on the court,” he says.
Finding the right people has proven successful for the Cougars this year, and it will continue to be a central theme and pursuit for Cummard’s program as long as he’s at the helm.
“I believe that Lee will build a championship level program here, and he’s going to do it the right way,” Wardenburg said. “He’s going to do it with his vision of playing fast, of defending, of pressing, of what you see us doing now.
“We’re only going to get better. You’re going to see a team that regularly fights for Big 12 championships.”
The Minnesota Vikings are working relentlessly to free up cap space. They started the offseason nearly $40 million over the cap, but are making moves to rectify that. The organization is letting go of Aaron Jones and Javon Hargrave, and is looking to offload Jonathan Greenard. One name that has come up in potential trade talks is tight end T.J. Hockenson, but one writer believes he might be safe.
While working the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, The Athletic's Alec Lewis had his ear to the ground and heard some interesting information regarding Hockenson:
Minnesota wants to lower the cap number for tight end T.J. Hockenson. He is amenable to lowering it, but the outcome is largely a matter of how low the Vikings want to go.
A restructure would not be terribly surprising for Minnesota. Hockenson is far and away their best tight end on the roster, even if he has started his regression. While a tight end will likely be added either through free agency or the 2026 NFL Draft, it would appear that, as of right now, the Vikings want to hang on to Hockenson at least for one more year.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Vikings seem likely to retain T.J. Hockenson for 2026
On every game day this season, THN Fantasy will highlight players and goalies for fantasy hockey managers to stream, roster or utilize in standard leagues and/or DFS games. Players and goalies highlighted for streaming in standard leagues are rostered in less than 50 percent of Yahoo leagues.
Pavel Dorofeyev, LW/RW, LV @ DET (84% rostered) - FanDuel $6,500
Dorofeyev is rolling for the Golden Knights. He scored his 29th of the season Tuesday, leaving him just six shy of tying his career-high set just last season. Dorofeyev has 12 goals and three helpers his last 16 contests, which has propelled him close to last year's totals. Roll with the goal-scorer while he is red hot for Vegas.
Liam Ohgren, LW, VAN vs. CAR (0% rostered) - FanDuel $3,800
Ohgren has a pair of goals and as many assists in his last six games. Those numbers don't stand out but if Vancouver moves Conor Garland and/or Brock Boeser, Ohgren should be a fixture the rest of the way in the top-six. He recently moved from the third to the second line, affording Ohgren additional scoring opportunities while he remains a reasonable price in DFS.
Chris Kreider, LW, ANA vs. NYI (23% rostered) - FanDuel $5,500
Kreider started the season strong before hitting an extended lull. He has been back on the beam his last nine contests, notching five goals and three assists. Kreider's goal February 27 was his 20th of the season, the eighth straight season and 11th time in his last 12 campaigns that Kreider has hit that mark. Anaheim will CK20 to remain hot to provide the team a strong chance at remaining in a playoff spot.
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Angel Reese never fails to impress with her fashion game. The sportsperson once again showed her glamorous side by donning a micro miniskirt that was entirely made of fur. Her fans were smitten with her look.
Angel Reese recently uploaded an OOTD video on her TikTok showing off the stunning attire she wore for the game day. Look at the clip here:
To make a stylish appearance on game day, the professional basketball player chose to wear a Chanel “sweater shirt” along with a fur micro miniskirt that matched her Chanel purse.
Reese, 23, also opted for a Channel bracelet as a choice of accessory along with earrings and rings. And to complete her look, the athlete wore high heels along with “cute little leg warmers.”
Light makeup and hair tied in a ponytail accentuated her look further. Needless to say, her outfit won many hearts online, with one saying, “My Angel.” While another follower advised, “let your light shine.”
Originally reported by Parul Singh on Reality Tea
The post Angel Reese’s Micro Miniskirt Is Completely Made of Fur for Game Day appeared first on Mandatory.
Atlanta Braves outfielder Jurickson Profar has been hit with a 162-game suspension after testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug. The penalty, which goes into effect Friday, would sideline him for the entire 2026 season, including any potential postseason games, and cost him his annual salary if upheld. Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported that the Players Association plans to challenge the suspension and the union will file a grievance.
Statement from the Atlanta Braves: pic.twitter.com/T95JTRNuNr
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) March 4, 2026
If imposed, the suspension would leave the Braves without an important piece of the outfield. However, the grievance process could delay the start of any ban while the case moves through MLB’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program.
For the Braves, the news creates immediate roster questions as they adjust plans heading into the season. Profar was projected to play a significant role in the lineup, and the club will now need to explore internal and external options to fill the gap.
MLB News:
Milwaukee Brewers starter Quinn Priester is slightly behind on his buildup schedule and may not be ready for Opening Day. He has been dealing with wrist soreness.
Another outfielder has violated the league’s policy, as Johan Rojas of the Philadelphia Phillies failed a performance-enhancing drug test. He received an 80-game suspension.
Last summer, Bayern Munich swiped Luis Díaz from Liverpool and now the English power could be looking to exact a little revenge by stealing away Konrad Laimer:
Liverpool are ready to make a play for Bayern Munich star Konrad Laimer and bring him to Anfield in the summer transfer window, according to a report. Bayern dealt a massive blow to Liverpool last summer by signing Luis Diaz for £65.5million.
According to Fussball Daten, Liverpool and Atletico Madrid are the ‘main suitors’ for Laimer. The defending Premier League champions ‘could invest around €40million to inject more dynamism into their midfield’. Atletico have already made ‘tentative inquiries through agents’ about a possible deal for the 28-year-old.
The German media outlet has reported that Bayern view Laimer as ‘a hybrid player who can be deployed at any time during a season in both central midfield and as a right-back’. The defending Bundesliga champions will not entertain any offer for Laimer, although Fussball Daten has revealed that Bayern could sell him ‘if the player himself were to express a desire to leave’.
However, Laimer is said to be ‘very happy’ at Bayern and ‘is not putting any pressure on the club to move’.
Laimer’s situation is going to be very interesting to watch as there is a rumored gap between what Laimer wants and what Bayern Munich is willing to pay. As of now, the two sides might be a little too far out of alignment, but things can change.
Real Madrid is reportedly keeping an eye on Borussia Dortmund center-back Nico Schlotterbeck:
RealMadrid are monitoring #BVB’s centre-back Nico #Schlotterbeck, who has already turned down #Dortmund’s bid to extend the contract which currently expries in 2027. #transfers
Real Madrid is reportedly looking to bolster its backline with some younger options than David Alaba or Antonio Rüdiger, and Schlotterbeck would fit the mold as a player in his prime.
Grischa Promel has been great for Hoffenheim this season and is reportedly headed to VfB Stuttgart this summer:
🚨💥 EXCL | Grischa Prömel to VfB Stuttgart – DONE DEAL ✔️
Full agreement in place. Free transfer in the summer from TSG Hoffenheim. Top contract until 2029.
The surprising exclusive news from mid-January is now set to be made official. #VfB
@berger_pj @_dennisbayer @SkySportDE
The list of teams interested in Bayern Munich could be growing as it now reportedly includes Inter Milan, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, AC Milan, and Galatasaray:
Over recent weeks, there have been suggestions that Tottenham could face competition from Premier League rivals for the Bayern star, and there has now been a fresh update on his future.
A new report in L’Interista has covered Inter Milan’s interest in the Bayern star and have named the teams that the Nerazzuri have to beat to secure the 31-year-old’s signature.
The report says that Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, AC Milan and Galatasaray have all expressed an interest in Goretzka.
Interestingly, it is said that the midfielder is demanding a salary of €9m (£7.8m) per year from his suitors as his contract at Bayern runs out.
Inter Milan is reportedly ahead of Bayern Munich and Arsenal for Serbian wunderkind Vasilije Kostov:
Inter Milan have moved to the front of the queue for Vasilije Kostov, with the Nerazzurri reportedly closing in on a deal for the Crvena Zvezda teenage sensation after overtaking Arsenal and Bayern Munich in the race for his signature.
According to Sports Boom, via FCInter1908, Inter are now on the verge of completing a transfer worth in excess of €20 million for the 17-year-old. Kostov has been compared to Barcelona’s Pedri for his style of play.
Sources close to the negotiations speak of a “gentleman’s agreement” already in place, with the player’s agent Nikola Kolarov having given Inter the green light to push for a final agreement.
Mo Salah is rumored to be headed to Saudi Arabia, but a future in MLS could interest him as well:
A summer departure for Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah is appearing “increasingly likely,” according to BBC Sport. The Egypt international signed a new two-year deal last year, but in December hinted that he could leave Liverpool midseason and suggested the club has “thrown him under the bus” as he was repeatedly dropped from the starting XI. Salah remained at Liverpool once the January transfer deadline had passed, and he has started every game since his return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Despite that, an exit could be on the cards this summer, with the BBC reporting that the Saudi Pro League and MLS are “possible options” for the 33-year-old. Salah has scored two goals in nine club appearances in 2026.
If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast, Spotify, Apple, or any leading podcast distributor…
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New York Daily News | Gary Phillips: A lot of news came out regarding Cam Schlittler’s “I have arrived” start in last year’s Wild Card Series. Now, though, we found out what he credits his success to: a good night of sleep. The righty has been tracking his sleep through WHOOP technology and said the two nights prior to his Game 3 start were the two best nights of sleep he’s ever had. Sleep tracking and WHOOP devices have now become commonplace throughout the Yankees clubhouse and for athletes in general.
The Athletic | Ken Rosenthal: All focus is on the World Baseball Classic now as exhibition games have started ahead of the tournament officially starting on Thursday. Aaron Judge is leading the charge as Team USA’s captain. This piece gathers some overall thoughts around Team USA, like the relationship between Judge and Bryce Harper, which was formed when Judge was trying to recruit Harper to the Bronx during his free agency. On a side note, Judge has been receiving some flack on social media for an “uninspiring” rallying speech, but us Yankees fans know, Judge has always been a more behind-the-scenes and on-the-field leader rather than a public one.
As an aside, Judge was among a number of Yankees who were in action yesterday for their respective WBC teams. Here’s how they fared:
Elmer Rodríguez dealt for Team Puerto Rico against Boston 🇵🇷
— NYYPlayerDev (@NYYPlayerDev) March 4, 2026
3 IP // 1 H // 0 ER // 2 BB // 2 K pic.twitter.com/qWSj6LX9jL
Forbes | Peter Chawaga: Before the Yankees took on the entire country of Panama on Tuesday afternoon, one thing in the lineup card stuck out. Third baseman Ryan McMahon was penciled in at shortstop. The idea was mainly to get some reps in there and see if he’d be a viable option in a positional emergency, especially as they work to decide who to bring on their bench or not, especially as someone like Oswaldo Cabrera is still working his way back from injury. For those curious, McMahon started a 6-4-3 double play to end the first, but he did fumble a hard grounder up the middle in the fourth for an error.
The Athletic | Brenday Kuty ($): Spencer Jones has been getting a lot of attention this spring, and rightfully so. While the Opening Day roster will be crowded and tough for him to crack, fans will be calling for Jones at the first opportunity presented or even sooner. But as folks get more of a look at him in games, one distinct thing has stuck out to many: his swing looks like it’s worth $700 million. That’s because he has intentionally mimicked his swing after Shohei Ohtani.
Welcome to Midnight Mania!
Let’s start the night off by taking a look back over the three biggest stories of Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
There are a lot of wild rumors about Daniel Rodriguez’s current location/status, but no official answers. Where is “D-Rod?”
🚨 BREAKING 🚨
— Martys Hairline (@MmaUnderdogz) March 3, 2026
UFC fighter”Daniel Rodriguez” has been missing since he went to Mexico.#UFCpic.twitter.com/1Apj6caX3m
Chris Weidman getting his leg snapped after snapping Anderson Silva’s leg has to be the least likely coincidence in MMA history.
Ran into this guy 😆 @chrisweidmanpic.twitter.com/JUlQUFE0D9
— U R I A H H A L L (@UriahHallMMA) March 2, 2026
After many years of struggle, Flyweight’s future is looking brighter than ever.
Génération 2000 flyweight ! 🇲🇲🏴🇯🇵
— 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐲 𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐬 (@Fernandes867789) March 1, 2026
[Via: Pollmma] pic.twitter.com/dkiKk0VduZ
Ryan Garcia talking s—t in a very literal manner:
Ryan Garcia EXPOSED Shakur Stevenson for pooping on himself during the amateurs 💀
— ITSDAFANTA 🥤 (@itsdafanta) March 2, 2026
“Edgar Berlanga pantsed Shakur in the amateurs. When he pantsed him he had sh*t stains on his underwear” pic.twitter.com/ozUAWnhZJP
Michael Page talking about fighter pay like this on a major news network is not going to ingratiate him with UFC brass.
Michael Page believes the $15M payout to Conor Benn hurts the brand’s image as UFC fighters continue to struggle financially. 👀😲
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) March 2, 2026
"It’s just hurtful to see the money go that way to somebody who’s not at the top of his field. In that division, he’s nowhere near the best. You’ve… pic.twitter.com/pJlVD4ukU5
Speaking of fighters the UFC doesn’t care for, Raoni Barcelos is on a great four-fight win streak! Give him a name!
🔥Montel Jackson will take on Raoni Barcelos in #UFCVegas116 on April 25th.
— MMA Orbit (@mma_orbit) March 2, 2026
[first rep. @MMAFighting] pic.twitter.com/LiWcw27Xl9
King Green doesn’t wrestle very often, but he usually looks quite good when he does (Paddy Pimblett being the exception).
King Green was a really good high school wrestler. Reactive double leg, float on top, knees on the break. Green made Zellhuber have to think about TD's after leg kicks AND landed a couple shots without overworking himself with TD attempts. pic.twitter.com/l15hQxoiyO
— RJ Clifford (@RJcliffordMMA) March 2, 2026
Well-placed power shots produce the finish:
🤯 QUEL FINISH DE DINGUE DE NIKA KOBAKHIDZE !!
— RMC Sport Combat (@RMCSportCombat) February 28, 2026
💥 Il vient de terminer Guillaume Delattre avec un coup de genou dès le premier round ! pic.twitter.com/WCwyxetMdV
Beautiful cross followed by the same-side head kick:
Vinicius Silveira with a violent KO in R1 #GRACHAN81pic.twitter.com/a3MhsQtHEO
— Half Dead Frank (@Halfdeadfrank69) March 1, 2026
The second kick landed with the toes, which does not feel good.
Nasty 36 second liver kick KO by Jhancarlo Cuellar #InkaMMA54pic.twitter.com/R6qYGhrWVa
— caposa (@Grabaka_Hitman) February 26, 2026
Spring forward is a holiday in my household. Long live the sun!
TIME CHANGE ⏰ In one week we Spring Forward. These will be the new sunset times starting Sunday, March 8th. Darker in the mornings, more light in the evenings! pic.twitter.com/d7cIH7M0XJ
— Matt Devitt (@MattDevittWX) March 1, 2026
Midnight Music: Psych pop, 2006
Sleep well Maniacs! More martial arts madness is always on the way.
CALGARY, Alberta (AP) — Sam Steel scored twice and added an assist and the Dallas Stars extended their franchise-record winning streak to 10 games with a 6-1 romp over the Calgary Flames on Tuesday night.
Jamie Benn, Mavrik Bourque, Nathan Bastian and Wyatt Johnston also scored to help Dallas improve to 38-14-9. Matt Duchene had four assists giving him a team-best 17 points (eight goals, nine assists) during the winning streak.
Steel and Duchene tied career highs for points in a game, and Steel tied a career high with 10 goals. He also had 10 times for Minnesota in 2022-23.
Casey DeSmith made 20 saves to improve to 13-4-5.
Flames starter Dustin Wolf was pulled after giving up four goals on 17 shots. Devin Cooley made 16 saves in relief.
Stars: Host Colorado on Friday night.
Flames: Host Ottawa on Thursday night.
___
AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl
The Minnesota Twins are not off to a hot start this spring, as they're 2-8-1 after Tuesday's 5-3 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays. However, third baseman Royce Lewis is 2-for-7 with one homer, four RBIs, and one walk over three games thus far.
The 26-year-old hit two sacrifice flies on Tuesday and went 2-for-2 with a solo homer, an RBI single, and a stolen base in a 7-2 loss to the Boston Red Sox on Feb. 21. He was scratched from the team's matchup with the Pittsburgh Pirates on Feb. 26 due to "right side tightness," but his MRI came back clean, per The Athletic's Dan Hayes.
Minnesota needs Lewis to take a step forward this season, as the oft-injured infielder has yet to live up to his draft status. The organization drafted the California native first overall in 2017, but he's only played 100-plus games in a season once and posted just a .671 OPS in 2025.
That's why Lewis' hot start this spring is vital. While it's a small sample size, it's a step in the right direction for a team that needs it.
Lewis isn't the best player on Minnesota, but he's the one who makes the most sense to build around long-term if he breaks out. Stars Byron Buxton and Joe Ryan are already in their primes, and the team is not ready to contend yet. It makes more sense to trade them for young MLB players and prospects to develop for the future with Lewis leading the way.
Lewis is under team control through 2028, while Ryan has a mutual option for 2027 and Buxton is also signed through 2028. The difference is that Buxton is 32 and Ryan is 29, so they have fewer prime years left than Lewis.
Of course, that only matters if Lewis plays to his potential in the regular season. Ryan and Buxton were All-Stars in 2025 and are at the top of their games, while Lewis has only shown flashes. The latter player notched a .309 batting average and .921 OPS over just 58 regular-season games in 2023 before tying the Twins' record with four homers in a single postseason, but he's declined since then.
Minnesota has also not made the playoffs since then, and there's no reason to be confident that will change in 2026. If Lewis breaks out, he'll be the obvious leader to build around for the future, and the organization could feel better about trading its two stars before their contracts expire.
As the NFL offseason continues, we draw closer to the start of free agency. Many Minnesota Vikings fans believe the path forward is to sign a veteran to compete with J.J. McCarthy in camp for the starting quarterback spot. Others believe that a trade is necessary, as this team is a quarterback away from being a real contender again. One NFL insider believes it is the former, but not a tenured veteran.
ESPN's Dan Orlovsky, on Get Up, discussed the idea of Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray being a possible solution for Minnesota. Here's what he had to say:
Orlovsky: "I only like it. I do not love it. If I were Minnesota, my number one goal is to trade for Mac Jones, number two would be Aaron Rodgers and then I would entertain Kyler...in Kyler's words, 'I want to be a playmaker'. That's not the role of the QB in this offense. In this offense, [it's being a] point guard..."
The idea of Murray in Minnesota is very tempting. He is set to be released by the Cardinals, barring a last-minute trade, and would be playing on a minimum deal, likely for one year. The Vikings could provide new life for Murray, a former Heisman Trophy winner, as this would be the best offensive line, weapons set, defense, and coaching staff he would have ever had.
The Murray-to-Minnesota situation is one to monitor.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Is Kyler Murray going to be a fit for the Vikings?
Ryan O'Reilly injury update: Latest news on Predators trade chip after taking stick to face vs. Blue Jackets originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Veteran center Ryan O'Reilly could be a strong addition to a playoff contender, but the Nashville Predators center suffered an injury scare on Tuesday.
Reilly was unable to finish the Predators' game against the Columbus Blue Jackets after sustaining an eye injury, forcing him to leave the ice. As Nashville is both in the playoff race and a potential seller, every game and moment matters for the team's decision-making.
Here’s the latest on O'Reilly following the scary incident against Columbus.
MORE: Wild trade for 6-foot-6 Predators forward
Ryan O'Reilly left Tuesday night's game with an eye injury, but the Predators said he is expected to be fine.
"For those who are concerned about Ryan O’Reilly, we expect that he is going to be OK," the team said in a statement. "He is flying home with the team from Columbus tonight and will be evaluated by our medical team in Nashville. We expect to have an update on his playing status sometime Thursday."
The Predators are off Wednesday before returning to the ice on Thursday night for their final game ahead of the trade deadline.
Near the end of Tuesday’s Predators game against the Blue Jackets, Ryan O'Reilly was forced to leave after taking a stick to the eye. He did not return, as blood from the injury was visible on the ice.
Oh my god, Ryan O'Reilly takes a stick right to the eye. Blood everywhere.
— Alex Daugherty (@AlexDaugherty1) March 4, 2026
The official, who knew enough to call for the trainer immediately, doesn't call anything.
While the Predators are just four points out of a playoff spot, Nashville could still look to trade veterans like Ryan O'Reilly and Steven Stamkos. O'Reilly is signed through the end of the 2026–27 season, increasing his value as a player the team would get for two playoff runs.
However, O'Reilly reportedly enjoys Nashville and would like to remain with the team for a playoff chase.
Elliotte Friedman: [Ryan O'Reilly] has told the team that he doesn't want to go; he wants to be part of the...team for the playoff push; Steven Stamkos, I was told, is in the same boat - 32 Thoughts (3/2)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) March 3, 2026
If the Predators opt to keep O'Reilly, they could instead look to extend him beyond next season.
The Montreal Victoire stayed undefeated following the Olympics beating another red hot opponent in the Toronto Sceptres 4-3 in a shootout in front of 8,671 fans at Coca-Cola Coliseum in Toronto.
After falling behind 2-0 on Toronto goals by Maggie Connors and Blayre Turnbull, the Montreal Victoire got the wake up call they needed from captain Marie-Philip Poulin who solved Raygan Kirk at 8:04 of the second. Kirk has been a key factor in Toronto's hot start to the post-Olympic portion of the PWHL season and she was again against Montreal turning aside 31 shots in the loss.
After Poulin got the Victoire on the board, Hayley Scamurra tied things up before the second period was out, and Lina Ljungblom scored her second goal in the last three games to give the Victoire the lead, albeit termporarily.
With their goaltender pulled, Jesse Compher was able to tie the game for the Sceptres with only 1:04 remaining in the game.
After overtime solved nothing, the teams went to a shootout. It was an uncharacteristic shootout with the shooters being favored scoring seven times total on 12 combined attempts between the teams, including two from Poulin to lift Montreal to the win.
Sandra Abstreiter earned the win in only her third appearance this season for Montreal stopping 23 shots.
The win gave Montreal a three point cushion in first overall over Boston, albeit with the Fleet holding three games in hand. Toronto's single point pulled them them into a tie at 24 points with the New York Sirens, but New York holds the tiebreakers keeping Toronto in fifth.
There have been some scintillating encounters among the now 35 times Louisville and Syracuse have met.
That harbinger of a championship on the horizon in January of ’86. When the alleged juggernaut Orange led by Pearl Washington and Rony Seikaly were ranked #4 in the land but shuffled out of an electric Freedom Hall on the short end of a 83-73 whipping.
Of course, there’s the etched in lore Cards dunkathon W in their finale at the Hall in ’10. 78-68. When Boeheim’s Army came in ranked #1 and met Kyle Kuric.
So too that comeback from a gazillion down for a 78-61 beatdown in the ’13 Big East tourney, on the way to the school’s third natty.
Boffo Basketball those battles were.
Tuesday night, not so much.
But, in the context of a season slip sliding away, significant.
Thanks to a double digit surge early on in the 1st, U of L was able to wheeze more than comfortable, but keep the visitors at bay after intermission.
Cards 77, Orange 62.
It provided relief from the recent disarray, if not indicating a major turn.
The Cardinals had 7 shots blocked. Were outscored in the paint by a dozen. Outdueled 15-5 in second chance points.
But won. Handily it can be said.
* * * * *
I am oh so sure I never imagined I’d be writing these words.
But here goes.
U of L’s victory was secured by a skein that began with elevation-impaired Aly Khalifa blocking a ‘Cuse attempt in close. That led to Isaac McKneely’s 5th threeball of the night. Which was followed by three more consecutive productive possessions.
The game wasn’t artful.
But victory was a psychological imperative.
Workmanlike works.
* * * * *
At the game’s first media timeout, four minutes and a tick of numbing ineptitude for a 2-2 tie, Doc texted me.
“Can it get any worse?”
Legit query, that.
Starting with Monday’s news that Mikel Brown would not play.
Then the wipe our glasses moment when seeing Vangelis Zougris was starting in place of Sananda Fru.
Followed by the opening interlude featuring three blocked shots by the Orange, 5 turnovers between the combatants, and 1/6 shooting from the Cardinals.
Well, the answer to the question in the short run, the first half, Yes for the visitors, No for Louisville.
An 11 zed run by U of L featuring a couple of welcome bombs from Isaac McKneely, the second a +1, and the swirling uncertainty momentarily dissipated at 21-10.
The visitors were 0/11 from deep before the break.
Given some of the head scratching Cardinal fives on the floor, it was frankly impossible to fathom what the final twenty might bring. Even with an 18 point halftime advantage and a foe as giving as soon-to-have-a-new-coach Syracuse.
* * * * *
Louisville steadied.
Kobe Rodgers was a mature presence. Running point more than he has, even when Mikel has been out.
J’Vonne Hadley is perennial.
Isaac McKneely rejuvenated.
Ryan Conwell missed his first four layups. But hit three in a row late when they were really needed.
Adrian Wooley came to ball, his 7 boards more telling (and important) than his 8 points.
77-62.
Yeah, Doc, it could have been worse.
Much worse.
Thankfully it wasn’t.
— c d kaplan
Max McEnelly said it always was a dream of his to compete for the University of Minnesota and now he’s living it and loving life.
One doesn’t have to watch or speak to the redshirt sophomore very long to realize he likes to go on the attack. Whether it’s from his 184-pound spot in the Gophers’ lineup, or his business and marketing education major, or his burgeoning golf game, McEnelly is all-in.
From the small town of Waconia — just 43 miles from metropolitan Minneapolis — McEnelly, a four-time Minnesota state champ, said what attracted him most to the program was a personable coaching staff and a great group of guys.
“I think staying in my home state and competing for the maroon and gold was something that I was destined to do,” he said. “And you know, I think the people of Minnesota appreciate that stuff, especially watching me through high school.”
They watched him excel in football as well, but a Division I wrestling offer won out over FCS football offers. Besides, overseas trips to Rome (U17 World Championships) and Bulgaria (U20s) for bronze and gold freestyle medals as well as a 3½-hour drive for competition in Fargo had their own appeal.
While McEnelly says folkstyle and freestyle are equal in his mind, those tournaments were a springboard to collegiate success.
“It definitely makes you grow, I think more mentally than anything,” McEnelly said about his abundant freestyle competitions. “You're put in those big matches, so the more you're in those big matches, the more you know how to keep your mind calm and stay focused on what needs to be done.
“I'm where I'm at now just because I've been put in those big situations and those pressure matches, and you just go out there and do what you do.”
What he’s done for the Gophers after a first-season redshirt is place second in the Big Ten and third in the NCAA as a freshman. He lost to Penn State’s five-time NCAA champ Carter Starocci in the Big Ten finals and to NCAA champ Parker Keckeisen of Northern Iowa in the NCAA semifinals, both in sudden victory.
This year, he has built a 17-1 record and a #4 ranking at 184 prior to this weekend’s Big Ten Championships at Penn State.
With a 181-1 high school record and a 42-3 college mark thus far, McEnelly learns from his infrequent losses.
“You learn how to stay present in those big matches and to always believe in yourself, even when you know the whole country is doubting you,” McEnelly said. “At the end of the day, the only thing that matters is whether you believe you're going to win.
“And if you go out there, put your foot on the line and you wrestle your ass off and you try to win, it doesn't matter what everyone else in the country says. All that matters is you go out there and you show the people that you know you're one of the top guys.”
He’ll have ample opportunity on Saturday and Sunday. He has beaten #6 Silas Allred of Nebraska and #8 Dylan Fishback of Ohio State but he’s yet to meet #1 Rocco Welsh of Penn State and #2 Angelo Ferrari of Iowa.
“None of it matters, other than just going out there and competing your hardest,” said McEnelly, who earned the second spot in the pre-seeds behind Penn State’s Welsh. “I think that a lot of people like to put pressure on big matches, but to me, it's just another match out there.
“And It's the most exciting part of the year. This is essentially what everybody's training for the entire year. These are the moments that you know wrestlers live for. And if you're not living for these moments, then what are you wrestling for?” he said.
Minnesota coach Brandon Eggum knows what he’ll get when McEnelly takes the mat.
“He lives for the big moments,” Eggum said. “He loves it when he’s out there underneath the lights; he comfortable there. And he is very composed. So when you put those things together with his athletic ability and mentality, he’s got the full package. He’s a great, young leader for us.”
And, Eggum, according to McEnelly, has the #15 Gophers set for their weekend trip east.
“I think our coaches have done a great job preparing all 10 guys going out there. So I think that our team is going to go out there and they're going to wrestle their hardest,” McEnelly said.
“Not every match is going to be perfect, but guys are gonna go out there and they're going to be ready to go no matter who they're wrestling. And that's something our coaches preach to us — it doesn't matter who you're wrestling. Go get offensive off the first whistle and try to score as many points as you can.”
Of course, it’s not all wrestling for McEnelly. He’s a NWCA Scholar All-America and an Academic All-Big Ten honoree in his business and marketing education major.
“Academics are extremely important. It's just something that I've always done from a young age, just making sure that my grades are taken care of before I go and step on the mat,” he said.
“The amount of stresses that you have in your life that you can eliminate, like stresses about school, family, work, whatever it is for people; if you can eliminate those stresses, it's just going to overall help your wrestling.”
He's been taking marketing and business-related classes and will graduate after the 2027 season with grad school a likelihood during his fifth season as a redshirt senior.
“It’s a major you can use in all aspects of life, you can use it for all different types of jobs, whether it’s a marketing job, sales job … it's broad, so it doesn't limit you to job options,” he said.
McEnelly takes a swing at another sport as well, just to get his mind off everything else.
“One thing that I really like doing right now is going to hit the golf simulator,” he said. “I really like playing golf in the summer. It's tough right now, with the Minnesota winter, but I go to the golf simulators and hit golf balls with my friends to get your mind off things.
“I'm trying to get better, for sure.”
Just like that other sport of his.
SIOUX CENTER, Iowa (DWU) — No. 9 Dakota Wesleyan Women’s Basketball traveled to Iowa to take on the top-ranked Dordt Defenders in the 2026 GPAC Women’s Basketball Championship game.
Both defenses started the game out strong with multiple swapped possessions, but the Defenders would be the first to go on an initial scoring run to claim control in the first period. The Tigers were quick to fight back, however, with an initial surge of offense from Avery Broughton, who went on to contribute 19 points and seven rebounds by the end of the contest. She also found initial support from Jaida Young on open attempts towards the basket as DWU was able to claw back, putting the game within one possession at the end of the first. An early set of turnovers limited Dakota Wesleyan’s ability to score, but stout defense on the other end prevented the Defenders from taking full advantage of their own possessions. Off the bench, Maleighya Estes was able to battle through the opposition in the paint, being able to contribute 16 points on five made baskets from the field, along with four additional free throws and a perfect two-for-two clip from three. The Tigers would trail 18-17 after the first period. The 10 minutes before half saw the Tigers put together an impressive offensive surge, led by Emma Yost, who ended up not just showing up, but ultimately leading the Tigers by the end of the contest with 20 total points, seven assists, and four rebounds. DWU posted a game-high of 27 points in the second period, able to ultimately claim the lead before the half, 44-40. A highly efficient clip from the field helped get the offense rolling before the break, and the second half saw the Tigers gain even more momentum.
Dordt did not find an easy path back into the contest after halftime, as the inspired DWU lineup kept up its stifling defense, outscoring the Defenders in the final two periods of the game. Rylee Rosenquist added 17 points to the scoreboard along with two rebounds, two assists, and two steals as the fourth Tiger to reach double digits, while Young and Shalayne Nagel rounded out the starting effort by combining for seven points, seven rebounds, four assists, and two steals. Dordt continued to press the attack, with the league’s top scorer recording 35 total points, but on the backend, the Tigers were able to limit her possessions down the stretch while keeping the rest of the opposing lineup out of the equation. Yost continued her dominant performance with clutch threes into the fourth period, and the now-established multiple-possession lead gave the Tigers confidence entering the final minutes of the game, which showed in how they were shooting. DWU ended up going 59.3% from the field, compared to Dordt’s 43.1%, along with finding 44 points in the paint compared to the 16 scored by the Defenders, which kept the Tigers in charge in the final moments of the contest. The Tigers held onto their lead and claimed the 2026 GPAC Championship by a score of 84-76. The result was Dordt’s first loss at home since 2023. The conference title marks DWU Women’s Basketball’s ninth in program history, and head coach Jason Christensen’s second in his tenure, seeing his first following the 2021-22 regular season.
DWU Women’s Basketball awaits their official placement in the 2026 NAIA Women’s Basketball National Tournament, with the Corn Palace already being named as a host site for the first two rounds.
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 KELOLAND.com.
PHOENIX — For two decades, the number “3” defined the Phoenix Mercury’s identity, and this year, that number will live permanently in the rafters.
Diana Taurasi celebrates a 3-pointer during a 2007 WNBA Finals game against the Detroit Shock. The Phoenix Mercury won the series and Taurasi won her first WNBA championship. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Mercury announced Tuesday that franchise icon Diana Taurasi will be inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor, with her name and number raised at Mortgage Matchup Center on Sunday, Aug. 16. Taurasi not only becomes the next figure to receive the organization’s highest honor, but also the one many in the Valley have been waiting for since she retired after the 2024 season.
Drafted No. 1 overall in 2004, the legend spent her entire WNBA career in Phoenix, leading the franchise to titles in 2007, 2009 and 2014. She also set team records in points (10,646), assists (2,394) and 3-pointers (1,447).
Sep 17, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Diana Taurasi (3) shoots the ball against LA Sparks guard Kia Nurse (10) in the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
While her career centered around the Mercury, Taurasi’s impact was felt beyond the desert. Her competitive edge and swagger changed what a female sports star was supposed to be — challenging perceptions of what women athletes were expected to look and act like.
It was that same swagger that reached generations of fans, young and old, as they witnessed her clutch playoff performances, MVP honors and multiple Olympic gold medals with Team USA.
Aug 3, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Diana Taurasi (3) celebrates her 10,000 career point milestone with teammates after the game against the Atlanta Dream at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Fans from all over the basketball world congratulated the Valley icon, with the Phoenix Suns also congratulating her on the milestone.
Taurasi’s character and statistics helped define her sustained excellence throughout the many chapters of her career, and now that career will be enshrined where she made history.
Bitwise’s Matt Hougan called it the “weekend that changed finance” as investors clambered onto Hyperliquid to trade the Israel-Iran conflict.
A Bitcoin Policy Institute study of 36 AI models found Bitcoin was the top monetary choice in 48% of responses, but more than half preferred stablecoins for payment scenarios.
Bitcoin will eventually reach a point where the US government creates the conditions it needs to succeed, whether that takes 10 or 20 years, according to a Bitcoin executive.
Australia is on a trajectory for only $710 million in annual economic gains from crypto by 2030 unless there's a substantial change, the Digital Finance Cooperative Research Centre says.
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Starting from June 2026, Finland will implement a new border policy requiring all Russian passport holders to present biometric passports for entry, as non-biometric documents will no longer be accepted. This decision, aimed at strengthening border security and meeting modern safety standards, comes after Finland transitioned to biometric passports in 2006, while Russia continued issuing both types. The policy ensures that all travel documents at Finland’s Schengen borders comply with current security measures, reducing the risk of fraud and identity theft. Russian travelers must update their passports to avoid potential delays or denial of entry.
Finland has announced that, starting from 1 June 2026, it will no longer accept non-biometric Russian passports for entry. This decision, confirmed by Finland’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs, marks a significant step in the country’s efforts to enhance border security and streamline travel document regulations. The policy change is part of Finland’s broader initiative to ensure that all travel documents presented at its Schengen borders meet the latest security standards.
As part of the new policy, all Russian travelers will be required to present biometric passports when entering Finland. These passports, which contain an embedded chip that stores biometric data, are widely regarded as more secure compared to older machine-readable passports, which are vulnerable to fraud and manipulation. While Finland transitioned to biometric passports back in 2006, Russia has continued to issue both biometric and non-biometric versions of its passports, creating a loophole for travelers using outdated documents. This loophole will be closed by the 2026 deadline, significantly tightening border controls.
Despite the mandatory biometric passport requirement, Finland has allowed for a few exceptions. Non-biometric passports will still be accepted under the following circumstances:
Additionally, a transition period has been set from 1 June to 31 December 2026. During this time, Russian citizens holding non-biometric passports with a valid Schengen visa will still be allowed entry into Finland. This transition period provides ample time for those affected by the policy change to renew their passports and comply with the new requirements.
This new policy is part of Finland’s broader strategy to enhance border security and reduce the risk of document fraud. Since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Finland has taken significant steps to tighten its borders, including banning most categories of leisure travel from Russia and reinforcing its physical border with Russia.
The introduction of biometric passports for all travelers is aligned with the European Union’s plans for the Entry/Exit System (EES) biometric checks, which are set to be fully rolled out in late 2026. The EES will require biometric data to be captured for all travelers entering or exiting the Schengen Area, further improving security and ensuring that all travelers are properly identified. Finland’s decision to require biometric passports from Russian citizens aligns with this EU-wide initiative, making it easier to verify identities at border control points and reducing the scope for identity fraud.
For Russian travelers planning to visit Finland, it is crucial to understand the new passport requirements. With the policy coming into effect in mid-2026, those who possess non-biometric passports will need to take immediate action to renew their documents and switch to biometric versions. The renewal process for passports in Russia can take several weeks, especially in remote regions, so travelers are advised to plan well in advance to avoid disruptions.
For businesses and individuals who frequently travel between Russia and Finland, this policy change could create logistical challenges. Corporate travel managers, particularly those overseeing workers in sectors such as energy, technology, and forestry, should begin reviewing the passport status of their employees and ensuring that they have the necessary documents. This is especially important for companies with staff working in Finland’s eastern regions, where many Russian nationals are employed. HR teams may need to adjust their planning and budgets to accommodate passport renewals and the travel time required to obtain new documents.
In particular, family reunification cases should be closely monitored, as non-working dependents older than 18 will not qualify for the “under-18” exemption. Employers should review their travel and visa policies to ensure that all affected staff members are aware of the changes and can comply with the new regulations well in advance of the deadline.
Businesses and travel companies that regularly handle travel arrangements for Russian nationals should take proactive steps to manage the shift to biometric passports. This includes updating invitation letters, revising travel pages, and ensuring that all relevant personnel are informed about the passport renewal process. It is also advisable for companies to begin contacting Finnish consulates to pre-book biometric data capture slots for their employees, as availability may become limited as the deadline approaches.
The travel industry should also be prepared for a potential increase in the number of people seeking to renew their passports in the coming months. As the 2026 deadline draws closer, demand for biometric passports is likely to surge, creating additional pressure on passport offices both in Russia and abroad. Travel agencies, airlines, and other service providers may need to adjust their operations to accommodate the demand for services related to passport renewals and document compliance.
The new passport requirement is just one part of Finland’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its border security and manage its relationship with Russia. The country has already made significant progress in reinforcing its 1,340-kilometre border with Russia, including the construction of a physical barrier designed to prevent unauthorized crossings. This barrier is set to cover a 200-kilometre section of the border, further enhancing Finland’s ability to secure its borders and control the movement of people.
In addition to physical security measures, Finland has also implemented stricter residency and work permit rules for Russian nationals. These policies are aimed at preventing potential security threats and ensuring that Finland remains a secure and stable country. The shift to biometric passports will be an integral part of this broader security framework, as it provides a higher level of verification and reduces the risks associated with document fraud.
With the new policy set to take effect in 2026, Russian travelers and businesses should start preparing now. It is recommended that individuals begin the process of renewing their passports as soon as possible, particularly if they are planning to travel to Finland during the summer of 2026, when the demand for biometric passports will be high. For businesses, reviewing the travel documents of employees and ensuring they have the necessary biometric passports should be a top priority.
Companies operating in Finland should also consider reviewing their internal policies to reflect the new border regulations. This includes updating internal communications, adjusting travel guidelines, and informing staff about the new requirements. Businesses that rely on frequent travel between Russia and Finland must act now to avoid disruption to operations and ensure that their personnel comply with the updated travel documentation rules.
From June 2026, Russian passport holders will be required to present biometric passports for entry into Finland to enhance border security and meet modern travel document standards. This move aims to close the loophole of accepting older, non-biometric passports.
The new biometric passport requirement for Russian travelers entering Finland is a significant step in ensuring the security and efficiency of border controls. As Finland strengthens its borders and adapts to EU-wide initiatives like the EES biometric checks, travelers and businesses must be prepared to meet the new passport requirements. By taking proactive steps to update travel documents and adjust internal policies, Russian nationals and businesses can avoid disruptions and continue to enjoy seamless travel between Russia and Finland.
The post Finland’s New Border Policy As Russian Passport Holders Must Have Biometric Documents From June 2026 To Avoid Travel Delays: Everything You Need To Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
The ongoing Middle East crisis has sparked massive disruptions in global air travel, causing airfares between Europe and Asia to surge dramatically. As Gulf carriers scale back or suspend services due to airspace closures and escalating tensions in the region, the reduction in flight availability has sent prices skyrocketing. However, Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Vietnam Airlines have stood strong, continuing their operations with minimal impact, offering travelers a reliable and stable alternative amidst the turmoil. Their ability to maintain schedules while other carriers struggle has made them a crucial lifeline for passengers during this chaotic period.
The ongoing Middle East crisis has sent ripples through global aviation, with European and Asian flight routes experiencing significant disruptions. Gulf carriers, most notably from the Middle East, have been hit hardest, drastically reducing their services between Europe and Asia. This sudden reduction in flights, coupled with rising fuel prices, has created an atmosphere of uncertainty for travelers seeking to navigate the increasingly expensive airfares in the region. However, airlines such as Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Vietnam Airlines have largely managed to maintain their schedules, offering some respite to travelers caught in the turmoil.
In recent weeks, the airspace closures in the Middle East have forced numerous Gulf carriers to scale back or cancel their operations. The airspace affected by the crisis has disrupted key flight corridors between Europe and Asia, leading to longer travel times, re-routed flights, and ultimately higher airfares.
While Gulf carriers have faced significant challenges, Southeast Asian airlines have managed to continue their services with only minor adjustments to their flight schedules. Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Vietnam Airlines, which operate a substantial portion of the flights between Europe and Asia, have announced that their services remain unaffected. This stability has come as a relief to many travelers who rely on these airlines for seamless connections between the two continents.
For the European carriers still operating between the two continents, the situation is far from ideal. Many of these airlines, such as Lufthansa and Air France, have had to adjust their routes, extending flight durations due to airspace restrictions. With Russian airspace closed, European carriers are forced to navigate limited air corridors, often rerouting flights below Saudi Arabia and toward the Indian subcontinent before continuing toward Southeast Asia. This additional leg of the journey has increased overall travel times and contributed to the surge in airfares.
Thai Airways has responded to the situation by rerouting some of its flights to avoid affected airspace, which has led to slight increases in travel time for certain destinations. Similarly, Singapore Airlines has made minor adjustments to its timetable, ensuring that its European network continues to operate smoothly despite the challenges posed by the crisis. Meanwhile, Vietnam Airlines has reported no major disruptions to its services, allowing travelers from both Europe and Asia to continue booking flights as planned.
One of the most immediate impacts of the airspace closures and reduced Gulf carrier services has been the dramatic increase in airfare prices. Travelers attempting to book flights between Europe and Asia are facing much higher costs, particularly as the peak travel season in Southeast Asia draws near.
For example, the price for a one-way ticket from Singapore to London on Singapore Airlines is currently quoted at around USD 2,000 for a flight on March 11, 2026. This represents a stark increase from just a month ago when fares for similar itineraries were priced much lower, hovering around USD 400 for comparable routes. The same is true for flights between Bangkok and Frankfurt, which are now sold out for certain dates. The lowest available alternative for this route is listed at USD 1,026 via Beijing with Air China, a stark contrast to earlier prices that were far more affordable.
The surge in airfare prices is attributed not only to the reduced capacity caused by Gulf airlines suspending their services but also to the broader economic factors at play. Oil prices, which have seen a significant increase following Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz, have contributed to higher fuel costs for airlines. These elevated fuel prices, combined with a reduction in the number of available flights, are driving up the cost of travel.
The rise in airfares has come at a particularly difficult time, as Southeast Asia enters the peak travel season. For many, this period is a time of heightened travel activity, particularly for tourism-related purposes. The situation has placed additional strain on the travel industry, with many vacationers, business travelers, and students scrambling to find affordable flight options.
While some travelers are opting to rebook or change their travel plans, the continued volatility in the region suggests that fares could rise even further in the coming weeks. With fewer flight options available, the competition for seats has intensified, making it increasingly difficult for travelers to secure reasonably priced tickets.
For those hoping to travel to Southeast Asia during this period, it is advisable to book flights as early as possible to lock in the best possible prices. However, with the ongoing instability in the region, it is important for travelers to remain flexible with their plans and be prepared for potential schedule changes or delays.
While many Southeast Asian airlines have managed to maintain stability in their operations, European carriers face greater challenges. European airlines have been significantly impacted by airspace closures, which have forced them to adjust their flight paths. The closure of Russian airspace has left limited routing options for these airlines, often necessitating longer and more indirect flight paths.
As a result, passengers traveling between Europe and Asia are experiencing longer flight times. These extended journeys have also contributed to the higher cost of airfares, as the airlines must account for the added fuel and time needed to navigate these new routes. Additionally, the demand for tickets is high, further driving up prices.
While the ongoing disruptions have created challenges for many carriers, they have also highlighted the resilience of Southeast Asian airlines, which have managed to adapt more quickly to the shifting conditions. Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Vietnam Airlines have been able to continue offering their services to travelers, maintaining their schedules with only minor adjustments. This stability has provided much-needed certainty for passengers navigating the turbulence of the Middle East crisis.
As the situation in the Middle East continues to evolve, the impact on international air travel remains uncertain. With Gulf carriers suspending their flights and airfares surging, it is clear that travelers should prepare for a challenging few months ahead.
The rising cost of airfares, combined with longer flight durations, suggests that this turbulence in air travel may persist until the geopolitical situation stabilizes. However, travelers who are flexible with their plans and willing to book early may be able to avoid some of the more extreme price hikes.
In the meantime, airlines such as Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Vietnam Airlines will continue to serve as reliable options for those traveling between Europe and Asia. These carriers are well-positioned to weather the storm and maintain their services despite the challenges posed by the ongoing crisis.
The Middle East crisis has led to massive disruptions, causing airfares between Europe and Asia to soar due to Gulf carriers suspending flights. However, Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Vietnam Airlines remain unaffected, continuing their operations and offering stability amid the chaos.
The Middle East crisis has undoubtedly reshaped the landscape of air travel between Europe and Asia, creating challenges for both airlines and passengers. Gulf carriers have faced severe disruptions, driving up airfares and leading to longer flight durations. However, airlines like Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Vietnam Airlines have managed to maintain normal operations, providing much-needed stability for travelers during a time of uncertainty. With airfares on the rise, travelers should be prepared for potential changes and book their flights as early as possible to secure the best possible deals.
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IndiGo Airlines is expanding its network with new direct flights connecting Chennai, India, to Réunion Island, a stunning French territory in the Indian Ocean. Starting April 29, 2026, IndiGo will offer thrice-weekly services between Chennai (MAA) and Réunion Island (RUN), further strengthening travel links between South India and the beautiful island destination. This new service marks Réunion Island as IndiGo’s 46th international destination and its 13th international route from Chennai, illustrating the airline’s strategy to expand connectivity to niche international markets.
IndiGo’s decision to introduce this route is set to cater to a diverse mix of travelers. From leisure tourists looking to explore Réunion’s volcanic landscapes, to business travelers, and those visiting family and friends within the Indian diaspora on the island, this new connection opens up a world of travel opportunities. The Réunion Island route adds a non-stop travel option, making it even more accessible to travelers looking for unique vacation experiences or seeking connections to the cultural melting pot of Réunion.
Réunion Island is renowned for its breathtaking UNESCO-listed landscapes, including the Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. It also boasts dramatic mountain views, tropical forests, and contrasting beaches of black and white sands. These natural wonders provide the perfect setting for adventure activities such as hiking, canyoning, and paragliding. The island is also home to vibrant towns, each offering a rich fusion of French, African, Indian, and Asian cultural influences.
IndiGo’s new route from Chennai to Réunion is especially significant given the longstanding Indian diaspora on the island, which supports cultural and economic ties between the two regions. As a result, travelers from both India and Réunion will benefit from enhanced travel access, especially those with family and business interests spanning both countries.
IndiGo will operate its Airbus A320 aircraft on this new route, ensuring a comfortable and efficient travel experience. The airline will run the Chennai–Réunion Island service three times a week on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The outbound flights will depart from Chennai at 12:20 PM, arriving in Réunion Island at 5:10 PM local time. On the return leg, flights will leave Réunion at 6:10 PM, arriving in Chennai at 2:10 AM the following day.
With this new connection, IndiGo is providing travelers with more flexibility and convenience, as well as an opportunity to explore Réunion’s volcanic hikes, cultural festivals, and incredible beaches without the need for connecting flights or extended layovers.
Chennai has long been a key hub for both domestic and international travel in South India. With this new service, IndiGo continues to bolster its presence in the region, giving passengers more direct options to global destinations. The airline’s efforts reflect a broader strategy of connecting India to new and emerging markets, while also catering to growing demand for unique travel experiences.
By expanding its route network to include Réunion Island, IndiGo also helps boost tourism, trade, and diaspora travel between India and this French overseas department. Réunion’s combination of natural beauty, warm climate, and rich cultural experiences makes it an increasingly attractive destination for both international tourists and those with ties to India.
Réunion Island’s diverse terrain offers visitors a rare combination of rugged volcanic landscapes and coastal serenity. The island is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The Piton de la Fournaise volcano, with its active lava flows, is a major attraction for hikers and geologists, while the cirques of Cilaos, Mafate, and Salazie provide challenging trails and spectacular vistas.
Aside from its natural wonders, Réunion is also famous for its Creole cuisine, which draws on French, Indian, African, and Chinese culinary traditions. Cari, a type of curry, is the island’s national dish, showcasing the blending of spices and flavors that defines the local gastronomy. Local markets, like the Marché Forain in Saint-Paul, offer fresh produce, local crafts, and a wide array of spices that visitors can take home as souvenirs.
Réunion enjoys a tropical climate, with two distinct seasons: a hot, humid period from December to April, and a drier, cooler season from May to November. The best time to visit is during the dry season, when temperatures remain comfortable, and the island is less affected by tropical storms and cyclones. The cooler months are also ideal for whale watching, which draws nature enthusiasts to the island for breathtaking wildlife encounters.
With its wide variety of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and natural beauty, Réunion Island offers something for everyone. Whether visitors are looking for adventure in the mountains or relaxation on the beaches, this French territory in the Indian Ocean promises an unforgettable experience.
The new Chennai to Réunion Island route is just one of many steps IndiGo is taking to enhance its international network and provide more travel options for its passengers. As more tourists seek unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations, Réunion Island is well-positioned to attract a new wave of visitors from India and beyond. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and exciting outdoor activities, Réunion offers a truly distinctive travel experience.
By launching this direct flight service, IndiGo is not just improving connectivity but also opening up a new chapter for travelers who wish to explore the diverse and vibrant offerings of this extraordinary island. Whether for leisure, adventure, or business, Réunion Island now lies within easy reach for travelers from South India and beyond.
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As the political and aviation crisis continues to unfold in the Middle East, Qatar has introduced a significant change for travelers stranded in the country. The nation has announced a one-month extension for all entry visas that are either about to expire or have already passed their expiry date. This move comes in response to the sudden closure of Qatar’s airspace and the broader tensions across the region.
In an effort to support travelers impacted by the ongoing situation, the Qatari Ministry of Interior has confirmed the automatic extension of all entry visas for one month. This applies to travelers who are already in Qatar and whose visas are set to expire soon. The extension is free of charge and will be processed automatically through Qatar’s official electronic systems. Travelers are not required to take any action, make payments, or visit government offices.
This measure, which began on February 28, 2026, will remain in effect until March 28, 2026, with further extensions possible depending on the evolution of the regional crisis. Qatar’s airspace closure has had widespread effects on international travel, with flights to and from the country grounded indefinitely. The Ministry of Interior continues to monitor developments and promises to take additional steps if necessary to ensure the stability of residents and visitors.
For those currently in Qatar, the visa extension is automatic and does not require any action on their part. However, travelers who overstayed their legal period of stay before February 28 must first pay the corresponding fine for the overstay. Once this fine is settled, the free one-month extension will be applied starting from the official announcement date.
This development is crucial for tourists, business travelers, and transit passengers who may have planned short stays in Qatar but are now unable to leave due to the airspace closure. With no commercial flights operating and no alternative evacuation flights currently arranged by the Qatari government, many individuals will benefit from this extension, ensuring they won’t face penalties for overstaying their visas.
Since the closure of Qatar’s airspace on February 28, 2026, all flights to and from the country have been suspended. Qatar Airways, the national carrier, has been updating its customers daily regarding the suspension of flights and the ongoing crisis. For travelers who were scheduled to depart between February 28 and March 10, 2026, Qatar Airways offers two options:
Passengers are advised to check their flight status on the airline’s website or mobile app. Due to a high volume of inquiries, Qatar Airways has requested that only passengers with immediate departures (within the next 48 hours) reach out to customer service directly.
As the situation evolves, it’s clear that air travel in and out of Qatar will remain uncertain for the time being. For those looking to travel soon, it’s essential to monitor updates closely, as delays or cancellations may continue to affect travel plans.
Qatar’s visa extension measures are not unique in the Middle East, as several other countries in the region have also adjusted their visa policies in response to the crisis. Destinations like Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia, and the Maldives have announced similar temporary visa extensions or adjustments to accommodate travelers affected by the disruptions in air travel.
These regional changes underscore the challenges that travelers are facing across the Middle East. While Qatar has acted swiftly to assist visitors, travelers heading to or from other affected nations should also keep an eye on updates and consider the potential for delays in flights and visa processing.
Beyond the practicalities of visa extensions and flight cancellations, Qatar’s Ministry of Interior has also issued safety guidelines for both residents and visitors. The Ministry has advised everyone to exercise the utmost caution during this period of instability.
Travelers in Qatar are urged to stay indoors as much as possible and avoid unnecessary movement. It’s important to limit travel to only essential trips, and visitors should take care to avoid windows and exposed areas. The government has stressed the importance of following official instructions and only relying on updates from the Ministry’s official channels.
For tourists in the country, maintaining a flexible itinerary and being prepared for further disruptions is crucial. Those planning to explore the country’s many attractions should stay updated on local conditions and adjust their travel plans accordingly.
Qatar is typically a welcoming destination for international travelers, with a relatively flexible visa policy. Under normal circumstances, citizens of 102 countries are eligible for a visa on arrival, with the length of stay varying by nationality. However, the recent events have thrown the tourism industry into uncertainty.
Though Qatar remains open to international visitors under normal conditions, the ongoing crisis has made it clear that travelers must be prepared for sudden changes. Qatar’s visa policy adjustments and the suspension of flights highlight the need for tourists to stay informed and adapt their plans as needed.
For future travelers, it may be wise to consider alternative routes or destinations in the short term, as flight operations from Qatar remain in flux. However, for those already in the country, the one-month extension provides crucial relief during this challenging period.
As Qatar grapples with the impact of the ongoing crisis, travelers should stay informed about the latest updates on visa extensions, flight cancellations, and safety guidelines. The Ministry of Interior’s decision to extend visas automatically provides essential support to those stranded in the country, ensuring they won’t face penalties for overstaying their visas.
Whether you’re in Qatar or planning to visit in the coming weeks, staying connected to official updates and preparing for potential disruptions will be key to navigating the current situation. Keep an eye on your flight status, follow safety precautions, and remain flexible with your travel plans. The Middle East remains a region of great interest for travelers, and with proper preparation, you can safely navigate these unprecedented times.
The post Qatar Joins United Arab Emirates, Sauid Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Lebanon, Maldives and others by Extending Visa Validity for Stranded Travelers Amid ongoing Middle East Crisis : Find it Now appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Oman’s tourism industry is poised to become a major contributor to the country’s economic diversification efforts under the Eleventh Five-Year Plan. The Ministry of Economy aims for the sector to achieve an average annual growth rate of 5.7%, with tourism expected to contribute 2.4% to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This ambitious target reflects Oman’s strategic focus on expanding its tourism sector and boosting its role in the wider economy.
The government’s plans are grounded in a long-term vision for sustainable growth, aiming to position Oman as a leading tourism destination in the region. This initiative aligns with the Oman Vision 2040, which seeks to drive economic diversification by focusing on non-oil sectors, with tourism being a critical pillar.
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has already made significant strides towards supporting tourism, securing tourism investments exceeding RO 2.6 billion during the Tenth Five-Year Plan. These investments have led to the development of over 12 tourism complexes, further enhancing Oman’s appeal as both a regional and international tourism hub.
As part of the Eleventh Five-Year Plan, the government is committed to diversifying its tourism offerings, attracting international investments, and ensuring the sustainability of tourism operations. This involves fostering a competitive investment environment in key governorates and special economic zones, as well as focusing on developing new and innovative tourism products and experiences.
In addition to fostering investment, the Ministry of Economy is dedicated to enhancing Oman’s infrastructure and promoting Oman’s unique cultural heritage. The strategic focus includes adventure tourism, ecotourism, and the preservation of historical landmarks, all of which are integral to Oman’s tourism appeal.
The Oman government has earmarked a significant portion of its national budget for the development of the tourism sector. RO 900 million is expected to be invested annually into the sector, with an additional RO 400 million allocated to support economic transformation projects during the course of the Eleventh Five-Year Plan. These financial commitments underline the country’s determination to enhance tourism-related infrastructure and services, ensuring long-term growth and sustainability.
The allocation of funds to support tourism will help Oman attract high-quality, sustainable investments in its tourism sector, reinforcing the nation’s competitiveness and positioning it as a leader in the region.
The launch of the Eleventh Five-Year Plan comes at a challenging global juncture, with market volatility and geopolitical instability reshaping investment dynamics worldwide. These global challenges have had significant implications for many countries, including Oman, which has faced external pressures such as the disruption of Venezuelan oil supplies.
Despite these external factors, Oman has managed to maintain a stable economic outlook, driven by fiscal discipline, operational standardization, and strengthened sustainability foundations. The country’s approach has shifted from merely balancing the fiscal budget to actively pursuing economic growth, with tourism identified as a central component of this growth strategy.
Oman’s tourism strategy is also being guided by a comprehensive study conducted by the Economic and Financial Committee of the State Council. This study is examining key aspects of tourism sector development, including investment volumes, economic performance, and the overall competitiveness of Oman’s tourism sector. By assessing the connection between tourism investment and sector growth, the study aims to identify key challenges, future opportunities, and practical measures to enhance tourism sector efficiency.
The findings of this study will provide valuable insights that can further strengthen the tourism sector by supporting the attraction of high-quality investments and enhancing Oman’s position as a sustainable tourism destination.
One of the strategic directions for 2026 is to emphasize sustainable tourism. Oman plans to focus on specific areas such as adventure tourism and ecotourism, offering visitors unique and responsible travel experiences. These initiatives aim to enhance Oman’s global image as a nature-based tourism destination, with opportunities for travelers to explore its rich landscapes, historical sites, and cultural landmarks in a sustainable way.
Another important focus is the geographical diversification of tourism across the country’s governorates. By promoting tourism in areas beyond the traditional hotspots, Oman aims to ensure that local communities in different regions benefit from tourism-driven growth. This effort will help spread the economic benefits of tourism more evenly across the country and foster greater community participation in the tourism sector.
The Ministry of Economy is also focused on improving the global competitiveness of Oman’s tourism sector. By aligning its tourism offerings with global trends, Oman seeks to attract a broad range of international tourists who are looking for more than just traditional sightseeing experiences. Through initiatives aimed at enhancing investment attractiveness, fostering entrepreneurship, and expanding tourism products, Oman is setting the stage for long-term growth in its tourism industry.
Efforts to enhance Oman’s reputation as a high-quality, sustainable tourism destination will continue throughout the Eleventh Five-Year Plan, with a particular emphasis on promoting cultural and historical tourism, adventure travel, and ecotourism as key pillars of the national tourism strategy.
With its robust plans for the future, Oman’s tourism sector is poised to contribute significantly to the nation’s economic diversification and long-term prosperity. The Eleventh Five-Year Plan represents a key phase in Oman Vision 2040, targeting growth in the tourism sector while ensuring sustainability and community involvement. With significant investments already made and a commitment to diversifying tourism offerings, Oman’s tourism sector is well-positioned to grow and thrive in the coming years, attracting both international visitors and investment opportunities.
The post How Oman Is Transforming Its Tourism Sector: The Shocking Plans That Could Boost GDP by 2.4% by 2026! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Sustainability has become a buzzword in the global tourism industry, with numerous destinations seeking ways to improve both their environmental impact and the communities they serve. Recently, the FEU Manila Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management hosted a symposium that addressed the pressing need for sustainable practices in the Philippines’ hospitality and tourism sectors. With a growing emphasis on eco-friendly practices, gender inclusivity, and community empowerment, industry experts gathered to share insights that could shape the future of tourism both locally and globally.
Held at the FEUture Center Auditorium in February 2026, the “Sustainability Symposium” featured three prominent speakers who each highlighted a unique perspective on sustainable development in tourism. The event brought together professionals from various sectors to discuss how tourism can evolve to meet the challenges of the modern world while maintaining its appeal to visitors.
One of the central themes of the event was the importance of responsible tourism practices. Allen Robert Nava, an entrepreneur known for his work with Albertours and Philippine Travel Master, discussed how the Philippines can integrate economic development, environmental protection, and social empowerment through sustainable tourism initiatives.
Nava highlighted the nation’s immense potential for tourism, particularly its pristine beaches, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. However, he cautioned that without careful planning, these very resources could be over-exploited. He emphasized that sustainable tourism isn’t just about minimizing harm to the environment; it also involves creating opportunities for local communities to thrive economically. In his view, tourism in the Philippines must evolve into a model that balances profit with environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
Nava’s insights came at a crucial time when the Philippines is striving to promote itself as a sustainable destination for international travelers. With eco-tourism on the rise, the country’s tourism industry is undergoing a transformation to offer more sustainable and responsible travel options.
Another key speaker, Agnes Larice Adem, the Sustainability Manager at Sodexo Onsite Services Philippines, spoke about how corporate sustainability can shape the future of tourism. Her presentation focused on plastic reduction, food loss, and waste management within large organizations, especially in the context of tourism and hospitality businesses.
Adem shared how structured procurement and corporate sustainability standards could have a profound impact on mitigating the environmental effects caused by industries like tourism. Sodexo, as a global leader in sustainable services, has already made strides in reducing plastic waste and improving the sustainability of food services. Her message resonated strongly with industry stakeholders who are increasingly aware of the impact of tourism on the environment.
By integrating these sustainability practices into their operations, tourism businesses in the Philippines and abroad can not only reduce their carbon footprint but also create long-term benefits for the communities they serve.
Pent Elyria Dawn Liongson, an independent GAD (Gender and Development) specialist, expanded the definition of sustainability in her presentation. Liongson introduced the concept of gender inclusivity as a fundamental aspect of sustainable development in tourism and hospitality.
Her talk emphasized how tourism and hospitality sectors can create more inclusive opportunities for women and marginalized groups. By promoting gender equality, the industry can foster a more balanced and equitable tourism economy. Liongson’s perspective was an eye-opener for many, as it challenged traditional views of sustainability, showing how social sustainability could be just as vital as environmental practices.
In her view, empowering women, addressing inequalities, and creating opportunities for all individuals are crucial to building a tourism industry that can support a more sustainable future for everyone, especially in the context of developing nations like the Philippines.
The Sustainability Symposium was a significant milestone for the Philippines as it showcased how the country’s tourism sector is evolving toward sustainability. However, for travelers and tourists looking to engage with these developments, there are several key takeaways that can guide their choices.
Tourists are encouraged to seek out eco-friendly hotels and resorts that prioritize sustainability. These accommodations often incorporate energy-saving technologies, use organic materials, and minimize waste. By choosing these establishments, travelers contribute directly to the local environment while enjoying a comfortable stay.
Engaging in responsible tourism means supporting local businesses, artisans, and communities. Opting for locally owned hotels, restaurants, and tours helps strengthen the local economy and ensures that tourism benefits are distributed more equitably.
Travelers can also opt for destinations and services that promote gender equality and inclusivity, providing more opportunities for women and marginalized communities to thrive. Supporting such initiatives fosters a fairer and more balanced tourism experience.
While traveling, it is vital to reduce personal plastic waste and make efforts to minimize the carbon footprint. Many destinations and travel companies now offer plastic-free and carbon-neutral options that appeal to the eco-conscious traveler.
Lastly, tourists can use their influence to advocate for more sustainable tourism policies in their travel destinations. Encouraging local governments and tourism boards to implement responsible policies and practices can help ensure that tourism continues to be a positive force for both the environment and the people.
As the Philippines embraces more sustainable practices in its tourism and hospitality sectors, the path forward will involve a combination of eco-conscious travel options, corporate responsibility, and inclusive growth. The tourism sector’s ongoing transformation reflects a growing understanding that sustainability must be an integral part of development, ensuring that tourism benefits everyone – from travelers to local communities and the environment.
While much work remains to be done, the symposium served as a reminder that tourism can play a significant role in addressing global challenges when managed responsibly. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your next getaway, being mindful of these principles can make your travel experience both fulfilling and sustainable.
The post Empowering the Future of Tourism in the Philippines: Exploring How Sustainable Development, Eco-Friendly Initiatives, and Gender Equality Are Transforming Travel Practices Across the Country appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
In a significant legal ruling, British Airways (BA) has lost its final appeal against the European Commission’s decision regarding its involvement in a longstanding air cargo cartel. The European Court of Justice confirmed the €84.4 million fine against the airline, which stems from anti-competitive conduct affecting the European Union’s air cargo market. This ruling solidifies the European Union’s jurisdiction over international airlines, even when the actions in question occur outside of its borders. The case, which has been ongoing for over two decades, highlights the EU’s authority to tackle anti-competitive behavior that impacts the bloc’s market, reinforcing the Commission’s power to regulate global aviation practices.
The investigation into British Airways’ participation in the air cargo cartel began in 2005 after Deutsche Lufthansa (LH) blew the whistle on its involvement in the coordinated anti-competitive practices. In exchange for immunity from financial penalties, Lufthansa provided key evidence implicating several major airlines, including BA. This led to a thorough investigation by the European Commission, which conducted inspections at various airline offices across multiple countries.
The cartel in question was accused of conspiring to fix surcharges on air freight services, including fuel and security surcharges, and of collectively refusing to pay commissions to freight forwarders. These coordinated actions had a substantial impact on air cargo services entering the European Union, which directly violated EU competition laws.
Initially, the European Commission imposed a hefty fine of €104 million on British Airways for its involvement in the cartel. However, the airline contested this decision in 2015, arguing procedural errors in the ruling. The European Commission subsequently revised its decision, maintaining the original findings but reducing the penalty to €84.4 million. Despite the reduction, British Airways still contested the revised fine, escalating the case to the European Court of Justice.
In its final appeal, British Airways claimed that the European Commission lacked jurisdiction, as the alleged cartel activities involved air freight entering the EU from outside the bloc. The airline further argued that there was no direct proof of consumer harm caused by the practices. However, the European Court dismissed both of these arguments, ruling that EU competition law applies to any conduct that has foreseeable and significant effects within the European Union.
The ruling from the European Court of Justice is a key moment in the ongoing development of EU competition law. By affirming the Commission’s ability to regulate cross-border airline conduct, the Court has set an important precedent for future enforcement actions in international aviation markets. This landmark decision underscores that the European Union has the jurisdiction to impose penalties on foreign carriers whose actions affect European consumers, even when those actions take place outside the EU’s borders.
In its judgment, the Court made it clear that it does not require direct evidence of consumer harm to enforce penalties for anti-competitive behavior. Instead, the existence of probable anti-competitive effects is enough for the Commission to take action. This approach strengthens the EU’s ability to regulate global markets and ensures that airlines cannot escape scrutiny simply because their operations extend beyond Europe’s physical boundaries.
For British Airways, the ruling represents the end of a long legal battle, and the €84.4 million fine remains enforceable. Although the airline’s legal representatives criticized the decision, arguing that it sets a dangerous precedent by lowering the threshold for establishing jurisdiction, the judgment reinforces the EU’s stance on extraterritorial competition law enforcement.
The financial impact of the fine, while significant, is just one aspect of the case. The broader implications for British Airways and other international carriers are also notable. Airlines operating in the European market will now have to be more mindful of the EU’s competition laws and the potential consequences of anti-competitive behavior, even if that behavior occurs outside of the Union’s jurisdiction.
This legal battle and its resolution are not only significant for British Airways but also for the entire aviation industry. The European Union has now firmly established that it can regulate global aviation practices, ensuring fair competition and protecting consumers in the bloc. This case serves as a warning to airlines worldwide that they must comply with EU regulations, regardless of where their operations take place.
As the aviation industry continues to expand and international travel becomes more interconnected, the EU’s role in overseeing fair competition will likely increase. This decision is a clear indication that the EU is willing to take aggressive action against anti-competitive practices that harm its market, sending a strong message to global carriers.
The legal battle between British Airways and the European Union over the air cargo cartel marks a pivotal moment in the enforcement of competition laws within the aviation sector. The €84.4 million fine imposed on BA has been upheld by the European Court of Justice, sending a strong message about the EU’s authority to regulate cross-border anti-competitive conduct. As the industry moves forward, airlines will need to ensure that they are in compliance with EU laws, particularly when it comes to coordinating pricing and surcharges in air freight markets. This case will undoubtedly have lasting implications for how the EU regulates the global aviation industry, ensuring fair competition and safeguarding consumer interests.
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In response to increasing passenger demand along the Abuja-Kaduna corridor, the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced the addition of more trips to its train services. The new schedule, which will be implemented starting from March 6, 2026, aims to offer passengers more flexibility, improve service delivery, and enhance operational efficiency along this busy route.
This decision comes after a series of disruptions that affected the train services in recent years, including the bomb blast on March 28, 2022, and the derailment on August 26, 2025. These incidents led to a reduction in available rolling stock and the implementation of Temporary Speed Restrictions (TSR) for safety reasons. However, with stability restored, the NRC is now taking proactive steps to meet the growing expectations of commuters.
The NRC’s new timetable will offer more travel options, particularly on Fridays, Sundays, Saturdays, and Mondays when three trips will operate daily. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the service will be reduced to two trips per day, providing an optimal balance of services while maintaining safety standards.
Specifically, passengers traveling between Idu and Rigasa can expect the following schedule:
This updated schedule is expected to enhance service delivery and help reduce crowding on the trains, as well as provide more flexibility for passengers traveling during peak and off-peak times.
The introduction of the new timetable comes after several operational disruptions, including the reduction of rolling stock and the imposition of Temporary Speed Restrictions (TSR). Following the 2022 bomb blast and 2025 derailment, train services had to be adjusted, with the number of daily trips being reduced. The adjustments were necessary for ensuring safety but had an impact on passenger convenience and the overall capacity of the route.
However, with safety measures now reinforced and operational stability restored, the NRC is now able to return to a more robust service schedule, aimed at handling the increased demand on the Abuja-Kaduna corridor. The addition of trips will offer greater operational flexibility and provide a much-needed boost to the Nigerian railway network, which has seen a surge in passengers in recent months.
The Abuja-Kaduna corridor is one of the most critical transportation routes in Nigeria, connecting Abuja, the nation’s capital, with Kaduna, a major city in the northern region. The route is vital for both commuters and tourists, making it an essential part of Nigeria’s national transport infrastructure. The NRC has been working to improve the quality of service along the corridor to accommodate the growing number of passengers traveling between these two cities.
The train services along this corridor are crucial for the daily movement of thousands of people, and the NRC‘s expansion of the service schedule reflects the increasing demand for reliable, affordable, and safe travel options in the region.
The NRC has emphasized that the expanded services are not only designed to meet the immediate needs of passengers but also to contribute to the long-term development of Nigeria’s railway infrastructure. With more frequent services, the NRC aims to enhance the passenger experience, reduce delays, and ensure a smoother and more reliable service overall.
The NRC has also highlighted its commitment to improving safety standards, reliability, and capacity, all of which are crucial for meeting the expectations of commuters. The introduction of a revised timetable is a step forward in making Nigerian rail services more efficient and aligned with the growing needs of both passengers and the economy.
While the expansion of train services is a positive step, the NRC has made it clear that further efforts are underway to improve the overall capacity and reliability of the rail network. This includes continued investment in infrastructure, safety measures, and operational enhancements.
The NRC‘s efforts are part of a broader initiative to modernize Nigeria’s railway system, which has long been a vital component of the country’s transportation infrastructure. By improving the capacity of key corridors like Abuja-Kaduna, the NRC hopes to support economic growth, reduce congestion on the roads, and provide passengers with a more efficient mode of transport.
The increase in trips on the Abuja-Kaduna corridor marks an important milestone in the Nigerian Railway Corporation’s ongoing efforts to enhance its services. By addressing the growing demand for travel and expanding its operational capacity, the NRC is taking significant steps toward improving the quality of railway transport in Nigeria. With continued investment and a focus on safety and reliability, the NRC aims to further solidify its position as a leader in the country’s transportation sector.
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A new adventure is taking shape at Singapore’s Mandai Wildlife Reserve, offering an innovative way to explore the world of Minecraft. The “Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue” has officially made its debut in Asia, inviting families and gaming enthusiasts to partake in an immersive, interactive journey designed to blend the excitement of gaming with real-world exploration.
Previously showcased in major cities like Dallas, London, and Toronto, this experience brings Minecraft’s iconic world into physical spaces. Participants are invited to step into eight intricately designed, game-inspired rooms, each reflecting a different biome from the Minecraft universe. The one-hour experience centers on saving a village that is under siege by zombies, using a blend of collaborative gameplay, motion-tracking, and stunning large-scale projections.
The “Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue” is more than just a typical video game. It allows visitors to become an active part of the game world. Players will journey through recognizable Minecraft landscapes, meet iconic mobs, gather resources, and work together to save the village. The experience is further enhanced with an “Orb of Interaction,” a device that participants can use to manipulate their environment and influence the outcome of their adventure.
At the end of their quest, players can visit the “Minecraft Experience: Trading Post,” where they can celebrate their achievements and collect exclusive memorabilia, including an in-game cape that can be worn in the Minecraft game. This addition to Mandai Wildlife Reserve makes it a one-of-a-kind destination that combines nature exploration with an engaging digital quest, making it ideal for family outings.
Developed by a collaboration between Microsoft, Mojang Studios, and Montreal’s Supply + Demand, the Minecraft experience represents a cutting-edge fusion of technology, storytelling, and game design. The project transforms the digital world of Minecraft into an immersive physical adventure, offering a real-life gaming experience that appeals to both players and non-players alike.
Michelle Choo, Vice President of Indoor Attractions and Experiences at Mandai Wildlife Group, expressed excitement over the debut of this new exhibition. She remarked on the unique value that the event brings to the Reserve, emphasizing that it aligns with the group’s ongoing efforts to offer visitors an expansive range of immersive experiences. This move adds to the growing portfolio of attractions within Mandai, which includes the recent launch of Exploria and enhanced dining offerings.
“We are thrilled to host ‘Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue’ as the first large-scale immersive traveling exhibition at Green Canvas,” Choo added, highlighting the exhibit’s role in enhancing Mandai Wildlife Reserve’s offerings.
This Minecraft-themed adventure is not only an exciting experience but also an affordable one for families. On weekdays, tickets are priced at SGD 46 for adults and SGD 40 for children, making it accessible to a wide audience. On weekends, the prices slightly increase to SGD 51 for adults and SGD 44 for children. The ticket sales will officially begin on 11 March, with presale access available from 10 March for those on the waitlist.
Given the popularity of Minecraft and the interactive nature of the experience, tickets are expected to sell out quickly, so early booking is advised to secure a spot for this limited-time event.
Olivier Goulet, CEO of Supply + Demand, expressed his excitement about bringing the Minecraft experience to Singapore. “Launching ‘Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue’ in Singapore marks a significant milestone in our global expansion,” he said. He emphasized that this event is not just about game mechanics, but about bringing immersive storytelling to life using advanced multimedia technology, bridging the gap between the digital and physical worlds.
Goulet added that the exhibition’s Singapore debut represents a new chapter in the tour, offering an unparalleled interactive adventure that brings fans closer to the Minecraft universe. The exhibit also builds on previous immersive projects from Mandai, which has successfully combined gaming elements with real-world experiences in the past.
Mandai Wildlife Reserve continues to position itself as a leading destination for innovative, family-oriented attractions. The introduction of “Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue” is just the latest in a series of events that bring together nature, gaming, and storytelling. This strategy provides guests with unique opportunities to learn and engage with their surroundings in fresh, interactive ways.
As visitors flock to Mandai to experience the new Minecraft exhibit, it is quickly becoming a must-visit destination in Singapore for both locals and tourists. Families now have the chance to combine the thrills of exploring natural habitats with the excitement of engaging in a world-class, immersive digital experience.
The success of “Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue” sets the stage for more innovative, tech-driven attractions at Mandai. The Reserve is committed to continually offering new experiences that blend education and entertainment, ensuring it remains at the forefront of Singapore’s tourism scene.
In the future, visitors can expect more cutting-edge exhibits that combine gaming, technology, and nature exploration. As the demand for immersive experiences grows, Mandai Wildlife Reserve is poised to expand its portfolio of attractions, keeping it fresh, exciting, and appealing to visitors of all ages.
The introduction of “Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue” is a milestone for Mandai Wildlife Reserve, marking the evolution of family attractions by combining nature, education, and interactive digital experiences. As the world continues to embrace new forms of entertainment and learning, this exhibit is a perfect example of how attractions can evolve to meet the needs of today’s tech-savvy, adventure-seeking families. Visitors can now experience the best of both worlds – from exploring the natural wonders of Singapore to immersing themselves in the digital excitement of Minecraft, all in one incredible location.
Whether you’re a Minecraft fan, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for a fun, family-friendly day out, Mandai Wildlife Reserve’s latest exhibit promises to deliver unforgettable memories that will captivate visitors for years to come.
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As Cyclone Seed 90S moves closer to Bali, tourists across the island’s major resort areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, and Ubud are on edge. The powerful storm is predicted to bring intense rainfall and strong winds, with the potential to disrupt travel plans until March 8. Tourists visiting Bali during this period need to stay updated on weather conditions to ensure their safety.
Bali, known for its idyllic beaches, vibrant culture, and luxury resorts, is now under heightened alert as Cyclone Seed 90S looms in the coming days. The cyclone’s effects are expected to be felt not only in Denpasar, the island’s capital, but also across Bali’s regencies, including Badung, Tabanan, Jembrana, Bangli, Gianyar, Karangasem, Klungkung, and Buleleng.
This storm brings with it a real risk to some of Bali’s most visited destinations. The beaches of Kuta, the nightlife of Seminyak, and the tranquil beauty of Ubud could face disruptions, especially as the region enters its peak rainy season. With unpredictable weather patterns and more frequent extreme weather events in recent years, the island’s typical rainy season schedule is now harder to predict.
For tourists who have already arrived in Bali or those planning to visit in the coming days, it’s essential to understand the potential impacts of Cyclone Seed 90S. Bali’s rainy season, which traditionally runs until late March or early April, has already started earlier this year, making it one of the heaviest downpours in recent history.
Flight cancellations and delays could occur as airports such as Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar) brace for severe weather. Airlines operating in and out of Bali may adjust flight schedules, resulting in extended layovers, missed connections, or even complete cancellations. It’s advised that travelers monitor their flight status regularly and stay in touch with their airline for updates.
With the cyclone threatening to affect Bali’s popular tourist areas, including the resort-filled regions of Kuta, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua, tourists should be prepared for significant rainfall and possible strong winds. These weather conditions could impact outdoor activities, such as beach excursions, surfing, and sightseeing tours in Bali’s cultural hotspots like Ubud and Tanah Lot.
The regencies of Gianyar and Karangasem, home to Bali’s famous temples, waterfalls, and rice terraces, are also expected to experience severe weather. As Bali is already in its rainy season, intense rain could lead to flash floods in areas with poor drainage, making travel in certain regions more challenging. For those planning trips to Bali’s serene landscapes or jungle resorts, checking weather forecasts regularly is a must.
While Bali remains a relatively safe destination, tourists should take precautions against the extreme weather conditions caused by Cyclone Seed 90S. Here are some tips to ensure a safe trip:
If your trip to Bali is scheduled during this stormy period, rescheduling may be necessary. Some tourists have already been advised to delay their travel plans due to the storm’s intensity. In the case of cancellations, some hotels and resorts may allow free rescheduling, though this varies by location. It’s important to communicate with your accommodation provider or travel agent for flexibility options.
For those who still wish to visit Bali during this time, ensure you have a backup plan for indoor activities like visiting museums, art galleries, and local cultural events. Bali’s vibrant arts scene, including its dance performances, is a perfect way to explore the island’s culture while staying safe from the weather.
Despite the ongoing disruption from Cyclone Seed 90S, Bali remains a popular destination year-round. However, this event serves as a reminder that the rainy season does present challenges for travelers. While Bali is famous for its tropical climate, those visiting between November and April should be prepared for frequent rain showers and cooler, more humid conditions.
It’s advisable to pack for rainy weather during this time, bringing lightweight rain jackets, umbrellas, and waterproof footwear to stay comfortable during sudden downpours.
For those who want to enjoy the beauty of Bali during the less rainy periods, consider planning your trip during the dry season, typically between May and October, when the weather is more predictable, and outdoor activities are less likely to be interrupted.
As Cyclone Seed 90S impacts Bali’s weather, tourists should stay informed, prepared, and flexible with their travel plans. While Bali is experiencing disruptions, the island’s charm and vibrant culture remain intact. Visitors can still enjoy the beauty of Bali’s resorts and its rich cultural experiences – as long as they remain cautious and up-to-date on weather developments. Stay safe, and keep an eye on official travel advisories for the latest updates regarding flights and resort operations.
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Privacy Display is getting incorporated into Good Lock in a new development. Samsung is rolling out an updated version of One Hand Operation + plugin. It brings regular improvements and an add-on specifically to the S26 Ultra.
One Hand Operation + lets Samsung users improve the phone’s accessibility. It unlocks a set of new features that help navigate throughout the interface. It also offers convenient tools that ease handling single-handedly.
The update (via LarrySWhite) primarily resolves the gesture malfunction glitch that occurs upon screen rotation. Samsung also highlights bug fixes and stability improvements as part of its continuous efforts to elevate the usability.
For the Galaxy S26 Ultra, One Hand Operation + adds “Privacy display action.” It expands the feature’s activation set beyond existing options.
Privacy Display can be launched from the Quick Panel and the side button. It has a dedicated page inside the system Settings menu. Double-pressing the side button quickly activates on-device protection without much intervention.
With the tool joining One Hand Operation +, the ease of enabling Privacy Display improves further. The plugin is already popular among Galaxy fans, given its benefits; the latest add-on gives it more reasons to be on the S26 Ultra.
Samsung is already accepting preorders for the Galaxy S26 series. Privacy Display is a hardware-driven feature, exclusive to the S26 Ultra. The tech comes at a cost of reduced display quality and brightness over its predecessor.
Credit – @F15Mechanic63/X
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Samsung is pivoting to a smaller panel size for its Fan-Out Panel-Level Package process, and if the timing holds, the Galaxy S28’s Exynos new chip tech could be the first flagship AP to actually use it.
The company is betting hard on a packaging tech that’s been hiding in plain sight. Plans include ditching the 600×600mm panels used for years in favor of 415×510mm, via Jukan.
It will be smaller, more controlled, and less warping, which has been the silent killer of FO-PLP ambitions since day one. Right now, FO-PLP only shows up in Galaxy Watch chips.
Watches got the experimental treatment. Flagship phones stuck with proven methods. Now the 415×510mm panels surface as the compromise that might actually work. Still about 3x more productive than legacy 300mm wafer-based processes.
TSMC’s apparently working on something even smaller, though details remain vague and Samsung’s expected to hit mass production first, likely sometime in 2027.
If Samsung can move flagship APs to this new FO-PLP setup, it frees capacity and cuts costs. Not by a little, but enough that it changes the economics of chipmaking at the high end.
The Galaxy S28’s chip may not ship with a press release about packaging tech. Samsung doesn’t work that way. But if the chip inside boots faster, runs cooler, or costs Samsung less to produce at volume, you’ll know what shifted behind the curtain.
Nothing is confirmed, and the fate of Exynos depends on consumer feedback. Even though the Exynos 2600 has made a comeback, the utilization of future products in flagship models remains uncertain.
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Lionel Messi will enter the 2026 World Cup carrying the weight of defending champion for the first time in his career, tasked with leading Argentina in pursuit of back-to-back titles following the triumph in Qatar. But the legendary forward could be heading into the tournament facing a significant handicap, with the Albiceleste’s preparation schedule increasingly at risk of falling apart.
Under normal circumstances, national teams not involved in playoff fixtures would have up to four friendly matches across the March and May/June international windows before the competition kicks off. While several federations have already confirmed their schedules and venues, Argentina find themselves in a far more precarious position.
For the upcoming March window, the centerpiece was set to be the Finalissima against Lamine Yamal’s Spain, scheduled for March 27 at Lusail Stadium in Doha, Qatar. However, the escalating tensions in the country have thrown those plans into disarray, with the venue now very much up in the air, even as both the Argentine and Spanish federations push to preserve the original date.
Further complicating matters, Argentina had also been slated to take part in the Qatar Football Festival alongside Spain, Serbia, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the host nation, with a friendly against Qatar penciled in for Tuesday, March 31. But the Qatar Football Association has since announced the postponement of all tournaments, competitions and matches “effective from today and until further notice,” effectively wiping the event off the calendar.
With the Qatar friendly all but off the table, Argentina are racing against the clock to find both a replacement opponent and a venue for an additional match. As things stand, the Finalissima against Spain, itself still subject to logistical uncertainty, could end up being the only game on Argentina’s March schedule.
Looking further ahead, the plan had been to arrange friendly matches between June 1 and 10 against Mexico and Honduras, in Las Vegas and Miami respectively, as final tune-ups before the World Cup. However, as reported by TyC Sports, both of those fixtures have also fallen through, meaning that, at this point, the Finalissima could be the only preparation game before Argentina’s World Cup group stage opener against Algeria on June 16.
Given their status as one of the world’s elite national teams and the pulling power of Lionel Messi, one might assume arranging friendlies would be a straightforward task for Argentina. In practice, the AFA has repeatedly struggled to put games together, and the most recent example is not far back.
During the November international window, Argentina were set to travel to Angola for a friendly tied to the celebration of the African nation’s 50th anniversary of independence. Reports from Sport News Africa later revealed that the Angolan Football Federation paid approximately €12 million (around $12.7 million USD) to host the match, with Messi’s participation listed as one of the conditions of the deal.
That ultimately proved to be the only friendly of that window, after L’Équipe reported that Morocco, a late candidate to host Argentina, turned down the possibility after the AFA reportedly requested around €10 million to make the trip. With Venezuela, Puerto Rico and Angola representing Argentina’s most recent friendly opposition, the concern is no longer just about the quality of preparation, it is about whether there will be enough games at all.
Bu gün futbol üzrə Azərbaycan Kubokunda 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 1/4 final mərhələsinin növbəti cavab oyunu keçiriləcək.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, ikinci oyun günündə də bir qarşılaşma baş tutacaq.
“Qarabağ” “Şamaxı”nı qəbul edəcək. Bu komandalar arasında Şamaxıda baş tutmuş ilk oyunda meydan sahibləri 2:1 hesabıyla qalib gəlmişdilər. Ayxan Abbasovun komandası cavab görüşündə bu üstünlüyü qorumağa çalışacaq. Qurban Qurbanovun kollektivi isə həmin məğlubiyyətin əvəzini çıxmağı hədəfləyib.
Xatırladaq ki, Azərbaycan Kubokunda ilk yarımfinalçı “Zirə” olub. Sözügedən komanda iki oyunun nəticəsinə görə “Sumqayıt”ı üstələyib – 0:0, 2:0. Mərhələnin qalan oyunları sabah keçiriləcək. “Qəbələ” “Sabah”ı, “Kəpəz” “Turan Tovuz”u qəbul edəcək.
Azərbaycan Kuboku
1/4 finalın cavab oyunu
4 mart
19:00. Qarabağ – Şamaxı
Bakı. Tofiq Bəhramov adına Respublika stadionu.
İlk oyun – 1:2.
The BYD Great Tang adopts a 2+2+3 seating layout and features four screens. BYD will also launch a plug-in hybrid variant in the future.
The post BYD Great Tang all-electric SUV interior revealed, up to 950 km range appeared first on CarNewsChina.com.
Bu gün Azərbaycan Kubokunda 1/4 final mərhələsinin növbəti cavab oyunu keçiriləcək.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, “Qarabağ” azarkeşləri önündə “Şamaxı”nı qəbul edəcək. Tofiq Bəhramov adına Respublika stadionunda baş tutacaq görüşə saat 19:00-da start veriləcək.
Komandalar arasındakı ilk oyunda “Şamaxı” qələbə qazanıb.
Azərbaycan Kuboku
1/4 final mərhələsi, cavab oyunu
4 mart
19:00 Qarabağ – Şamaxı
İlk oyun 1:2
The consistency of Colby Garland continues to shine for San Jose State (8-22, 3-16 MW). Unfortunately for the Spartans, the results around Garland remain stubbornly the same.
Garland poured in a game-high 26 points. His ninth consecutive 20-plus performance, but San Jose State fell 82-68 to Fresno State (13-17, 7-12 MW) Tuesday night at the Save Mart Center in the Spartans’ final road game before the Mountain West tournament.
For long stretches, Garland was again the engine that kept San Jose State within reach. The junior guard shot an efficient 10-of-18 from the field while adding three assists; yet again playing the full 40 minutes.
But while Garland delivered, Fresno State’s early shooting barrage and the Spartans’ struggles at the free-throw line proved too much to overcome.
Fresno State seized control early behind a blistering first-half performance from beyond the arc; hitting 8 of 14 three-pointers (57%). The Bulldogs carried that momentum into a 45-34 half-time lead as SJSU struggled to contain perimeter looks while trying to keep pace offensively.
Deshawn Gory led Fresno’s balanced attack with 14 points, while Jake Heidbreder added 20 and Wilson Jacques dominated inside with 19 rebounds.
Despite the deficit, the Spartans mounted a brief push in the second half.
After Fresno opened the half with a double-digit lead, San Jose State answered with an 8-4 run sparked by Garland’s second three-pointer, a Jermaine Washington triple, and an Adrian Myers dunk that briefly cut the margin to seven at 49-42.
Myers finished with 17 points and an impressive 16 rebounds for another double-double effort.
But as it’s been most of the season, each Spartan surge was met by a response that San Jose could not overcome.
A controversial technical foul on Garland during one key stretch halted momentum, and Fresno answered with free throws before Jac Mani’s three-pointer pushed the Bulldogs back into comfortable territory midway through the half.
San Jose State’s biggest statistical obstacle came at the foul line. The Spartans entered the game shooting roughly 75% from the stripe but managed just 9-of-19 (47%) on this evening; even finding Garland looking bewildered after uncharacteristic free-throw misses.
Meanwhile the Bulldogs capitalized, converting 19-of-24 free throws while maintaining their edge from deep with 11 made threes overall.
Even with San Jose State holding advantages in points in the paint (42-22) and forcing turnovers that led to 11 points, the Spartans could not erase the early deficit.
A late Fresno three with just over two minutes remaining effectively sealed the outcome; stretching the lead to double digits again and sending the Bulldogs to their 10th home victory of the season while snapping a four-game skid.
For San Jose State, the formula has become painfully familiar: Garland delivers, the Spartans compete in bursts, but defensive lapses, missed free throws and timely opponent shooting once again prove decisive.
The Spartans face Wyoming at home Saturday afternoon for their final regular season game before the conference tournament.
Atlético Madrid are back in a Copa del Rey final.
A 3–0 defeat to FC Barcelona at the Spotify Camp Nou was just (barely) enough to send the Rojiblancos through on aggregate. The last time Atleti reached any domestic cup final under Diego Simeone was the 2020 Supercopa. The last Copa del Rey final? 2013. It sure has been a while.
Time to dig in to some takeaways.
There is no dressing this up. This might have been one of Atlético’s worst performances of the Simeone era.
Not because they lost 3–0 — they have lost games before — but because of how little control they exerted over a tie they entered with a four-goal cushion.
When the lineup dropped, it was mildly surprising for different reasons. There had been days of “remontada” discourse swirling online, but Simeone did not pick a side built purely to defend a lead.
In fact, bar Johnny Cardoso coming in for Nahuel Molina, it was essentially the same XI that dismantled Barcelona in the first leg. It looked balanced. It even looked proactive.
It certainly did not play out that way.
Barcelona came flying out of the gates as expected, and the Rojiblancos immediately retreated. Not in controlled blocks designed to frustrate, but in waves of passive defending that invited pressure rather than absorbed it. For nearly half an hour, the Blaugrana probed without finding the breakthrough.
Antoine Griezmann registered Atlético’s first shot in the 27th minute. Moments later, Barcelona were ahead. It felt inevitable.
Lamine Yamal ghosted past Ademola Lookman as if he were not there and squared for Marc Bernal to tap home. And honestly, pause the analysis for a second, what a performance from Yamal. Eighteen years old and he looked like the most decisive player on the pitch. Fourteen completed dribbles. Fourteen!!! That is “best-in-the-world-on-the-night” territory. Every time he received the ball, something happened. There were simply no answers.
Yet somehow, at just 1–0 down, Atlético had technically navigated the first wave. Even then, the rope felt thin.
Lookman had a golden opportunity in first-half stoppage time, rising to meet a difficult header that he probably should have buried. Instead, within moments again, Marc Pubill committed an uncharacteristic foul in the box on Pedri. Raphinha converted the penalty. And that was when the nerves truly arrived.
At 2–0 on the night, with Barcelona surging and the stadium alive, the aggregate lead no longer felt secure. Atleti were crumbling under pressure they had largely invited.
Every clearance was rushed. Every outlet felt isolated. For the first time in the tie, elimination did not feel dramatic. It felt plausible. And then the third went in with just under 20 minutes to play.
It very easily could have unraveled into embarrassment. And if it had, the season would have effectively hinged on miracles elsewhere.
Instead, they just about clung on. Relief defined the final whistle and Simeone said that at 3-0 down, he found himself saying “esto es Atleti,” implying that the side always had to suffer. This was a suffering for the ages, and thankfully it was worth it.
Games like this will always call for the strongest characters to step up.
At opposite ends of the pitch, Juan Musso and Antoine Griezmann did exactly that.
Musso did concede three goals, but it would be harsh to pin any of them on him. The first and third were close-range finishes, and the second a penalty. Beyond that, he made six saves, each one necessary. There was even a double stop in the second half that was later flagged for offside, but the reaction told you everything. Teammates rushed to him in celebration, as if he had just scored. Because in that moment, he effectively had.
His presence was calming in a way the outfield play was not. Again, it sounds strange to talk about solidity after conceding three times, but the objective was brutally simple: do not concede four. Musso ensured that line was never crossed. While the rest of the side wobbled, he remained upright.
And then there was Griezmann.
Forty-eight touches. Only four more than Musso. That tells you everything about the flow of the match. The Rojiblancos barely had the ball, and when they did, it almost always passed through him. He created three chances — the second-most of any player in the game despite Barcelona attempting 21 shots to Atleti’s seven. He registered nine ball recoveries, joint-second overall. He was the side’s primary outlet and one of their primary defenders and, in truth, the only reason the tie ever felt like it might be put to bed rather than dragged into chaos.
There was a tweet circulating that said, “With another 34-year-old Griezmann, Atlético score one. With a young Griezmann, they score three.” It is difficult to disagree.
The smash-and-grab Cholo sides of old relied on vertical ferocity and ruthless transitions. Modern opponents are better equipped to handle that. Modern players struggle to execute.
But Griezmann adapts. Timeless is overused in football, but it fits here.
Madrid suits him better than Orlando ever could.
Did Atlético need to play this way? Probably not.
With a four-goal advantage, they did not need to attack recklessly, but neither did they need to surrender territory so willingly. There were moments where possession was recycled straight back to Barcelona, almost inviting another wave of pressure. That approach has worked in previous eras, but the modern game, and the quality of Barcelona’s young core, makes prolonged passivity far riskier.
In the end, it worked. But that does not mean it was comfortable.
There is also the chance that both sides meet again in a two-legged tie this season – what happens then? Tottenham Hotspur await in the Champions League, and if both Atlético and Barcelona advance — the Catalan club faces Newcastle United — the two would play in the quarterfinals. Simeone even alluded to the possibility in conversation with Hansi Flick. The German will be licking his lips at the thought of revenge.
The potential timing of the tie would also be interesting: a two-legged European clash concluding days before the Copa del Rey final. Atlético will face either Athletic Club or Real Sociedad on the 18th of April for the trophy, just four days after the Champions League quarterfinals.
More questions linger there, none more so than the big one. Can Atleti do it? They will be favorites, but that label has rarely guaranteed serenity for this side. This is a chance to win their first trophy since 2021. A chance for Koke and Simeone to come full circle over a decade later in this competition. A golden chance to turn a chaotic season into a decorated one.
March and April will bring about the start of the climax that this season has been building up to.
How’s your nerve?
A LA FINAL 😁 pic.twitter.com/7v5gTplySd
— Atlético de Madrid (@Atleti) March 3, 2026
The Syracuse Orange (15-15, 6-11) dropped their fourth straight game, losing 77-62 at the #24 Louisville Cardinals (21-9, 10-7).
Nait George led Syracuse with 16 points on 5-13 shooting. Nate Kingz was the most efficient player with 14 points and 6 rebounds. Sadiq White had another strong game with 8 points off the bench while Donnie Freeman had a double-double on 3-11 shooting.
It was an ugly start as both teams were sloppy with the ball and quick to force shots. We hit the first media timeout with the score 2-2. The Cardinals were the first team to get their offense going as Ryan Conwell (2) and Isaac McNeeley (1) hit 3s against the zone that Syracuse went to with Kiyan Anthony, Tyler Betsey and Sadiq White on the floor.
Adrian Autry continued to grasp at lineup straws while the Cardinals ran out to a 21-10 lead. We got a lineup of Bryce Zephir, JJ Starling, Betsey, White and William Kyle. White was the one Orange player who looked to be ready to play tonight and so of course he got pulled after scoring 6 of Syracuse’s 14 points.
SADIQ SLAM! 😤
— Syracuse Men’s Basketball (@Cuse_MBB) March 4, 2026
📺 ACCN pic.twitter.com/BFr2rrsEYI
McNeeley hit a wide-open 3 to make it 32-16 and Autry called a timeout with 4:58 in the half. At this point, the Orange were 0-8 from 3 with several bricks and on the defensive end they let Louisville get clean looks. The Duke and Iowa State games took over 20 minutes to become embarrassing but tonight got there in the first half. To add injury to the insult, White went down hard in the final minute of the half, though he did return.
Louisville led 39-21 at the half as the Syracuse starters were a combined 3-18 from the field and the Orange as a team were 0-11 from 3. The one bright spot was 7-9 from the foul line, but Louisville enjoyed a 23-14 rebounding edge and forced 7 Syracuse turnovers.
The second half so a bit better offense from Syracuse, but Louisville’s shooting kept them comfortably ahead for the first 10 minutes. Adrian Wooley’s 3 made it 60-38 but the Orange found some heart and went on a 9-0 run in the next two minutes, punctuated by a Kyle block leading to a White dunk and a timeout from Pat Kelsey.
Syracuse had a couple of chances to get the lead into single digits, but couldn’t and then McNeeley and Conwell hit from deep again and the Cardinals were back up 69-53 putting any hopes of a comeback to bed.
Louisville shot 14-35 from 3 for the game while the Orange were only able to muster a 4-19 performance. The Cardinals won the rebounding battle 37-35 and Syracuse only committed 4 second-half turnovers but dug a hole too big to climb out of in the YUM! Center.
Syracuse closes out the regular season on Saturday when they host the Pitt Panthers. It might be the final Dome game for a lot of people associated with the program, but we know it’s the last one for JJ Starling and William Kyle. Tip is at 4:30 pm on The CW.
The Toronto Raptors tried, and tried and tried some more, but in the end — as it’s been all season — they had nothing for a Knicks team they could see in the first round of the playoffs.
The Knicks, save for some frenetic Raptors rallies from down double digits, weathered an early storm and ultimately ran away with a 111-95 victory in Toronto on Tuesday.
The Knicks have completed a 4-0 season series sweep over the Raptors. They have beaten Toronto by 22, 16, 27 and now 16 points this season. And Tuesday’s win moved the Raptors just one game ahead of the Philadelphia 76ers for the Eastern Conference’s No. 6 seed.
If the Knicks retain the East’s No. 3 seed entering the playoffs, they face No. 6 in the first round.
For the 11th time in the last 19 games, the Knicks have held an opponent under 100 points. They closed the Raptors on 16-2 run and held Toronto to just 13 points in the fourth quarter and 37 second-half points after allowing 31 in the first quarter.
“Holding each other accountable. We have a goal in mind. We’re striving every day for that goal. There’s gonna be days where we take steps back. There’s gonna be days where we take steps forward,” Jalen Brunson said. “It’s all about how we trust each other and stick with each other. I know that sounds like a bunch of BS but it’s important for us to stick together.”
Tuesday marked the Knicks’ third straight game with all five starters scoring in double figures. Brunson finished with 26 points and 10 assists on the night.
The Knicks watched substantial leads evaporate into single-digit affairs twice in the second half on Tuesday. On both occasions, the Knicks rallied with a response shifting the momentum back into their favor.
The Knicks led by 13 at the 2:55 mark of the second quarter. The Raptors cut the deficit to two by the 7:41 mark of the third period. The Knicks immediately responded with a 9-1 run before the Raptors made it a two-point game entering the fourth quarter. And the Knicks built a seven-point lead at the 8:31 mark of the fourth before the Raptors, once again, made it a two-point game two and a half minutes later.
“It started with stops. I think it’s always big-time when you hold a team to 100 points, especially a team like that that plays so fast, gets downhill and creates opportunities for each other,” Brunson said. “They’ve been playing great all year, and in that fourth quarter, we found a way to string some stops together.”
RJ Barrett scored 20 points on 9-of-13 shooting from the field, and Immanuel Quickley added 13 points but struggled on 4-of-13 shooting from the field. The pair of former Knicks were packaged together in the Dec. 2023 trade that netted OG Anunoby. In another game back at Scotiabank Arena, Anunoby finished with 15 points on 5-of-6 shooting from the field.
Anunoby entered Tuesday’s matchup averaging 20.8 points on 57% shooting from the field over six games against the team that selected him 23rd overall in the 2017 NBA Draft. The Knicks have won 10 straight games against the Raptors since the Anunoby deal.
Mitchell Robinson grabbed his surgically repaired left ankle in the first half. Josh Hart grabbed at his abdomen in the third quarter. Mikal Bridges and Jose Alvarado each took a shot to the face against the Raptors, as officials allowed a physical style of play on both ends of the floor most of the night. Plus Karl-Anthony Towns was slow to get to his feet after barreling into a cameraman on a drive to the rim late in regulation.
The Knicks are now off to a 2-0 start to their five-game swing against playoff competition. Next up, they host the reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder in the second leg of a back-to-back on Wednesday. Robinson is expected to sit against the Thunder due to load management.
BLACKSBURG, Va. (AP) — Tobi Lawal scored 20 points and grabbed seven rebounds, Neoklis Avdalas added 15 points and six rebounds, and Virginia Tech got by Boston College, 72-63 on Tuesday night.
Amani Hansberry and Ben Hammond each scored 11 for the Hokies (19-11, 8-9 Atlantic Coast Conference), who improved to 14-3 at home this season.
Virginia Tech led for all but 47 seconds of game time, taking the lead for good on an Avdalas 3-pointer to open the scoring. They led 35-24 at half after a 6-0 BC run brought the lead from 17 to 9.
The Hokies shot 43% from the floor and 46% from deep, while Boston College was 42% and 23% respectively.
The Eagles (10-20, 3-14) cut the lead to as few as six points late with a 9-0 run, but Tech held on to preserve the victory. BC won the glass battle, 36-32, and scored 42 of their points in the paint.
BC was led by Boden Kapke's career-high 25 points along with eight rebounds and Fred Payne's 16 points, 12 rebounds, and two steals. The Eagles lost their second straight game and have dropped nine of their last 10 contests.
Boston College: hosts Notre Dame on Saturday.
Virginia Tech: visits No. 13 Virginia on Saturday.
___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here and here (AP News mobile app). AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball
The Louisville basketball fans who made it to the KFC Yum! Center for Tuesday night’s regular-season finale were treated to everything from Khani Rooths and Sananda Fru connecting for an alley-oop to Isaac McKneely converting a 4-point play after getting leveled by Syracuse’s Tyler Betsey as his shot from the left wing touched nothing but net.
They did not, however, get one final chance to ooh and aah at Mikel Brown Jr. running the show on Denny Crum Court before the freshman point guard becomes the program’s first one-and-done player. He was held out of the Cardinals’ 77-62 win over the Orange due to a back injury – the same reason he missed eight games between Dec. 16 and Jan. 17.
That UofL (21-9, 10-7 ACC) took care of business so thoroughly without Brown, ending its two-game losing streak by leading a struggling Syracuse (15-15, 6-11) team for 34 minutes and by as many as 24 points, was a good sign heading into Saturday’s regular-season finale at No. 23 Miami. But the projected NBA lottery pick’s availability is going to be the story moving forward.
On Monday, coach Pat Kelsey said Brown’s body was “just a little bit beat up,” stemming from some hard falls the 6-foot-5 freshman took during a Feb. 23 loss at then-No. 19 North Carolina. He mustered only five points on 2-for-10 shooting in 21 minutes off the bench during last weekend’s loss at Clemson – after being downgraded from probable to a game-time decision. “He definitely wasn’t 100% today,” Kelsey said in the wake of the defeat.
"We'll see how he is today at practice," the coach told reporters Monday. "The medical people make that decision in terms of what his game status is; and then we'll see how he is tomorrow."
The question is: Does Brown need to sit out of Saturday's Quad 1A road game against the Hurricanes to ensure he's 100% for next week's ACC Tournament? With Tuesday's win, Louisville overtook N.C. State for sixth place in the conference standings by way of a head-to-head tiebreaker. But the Cards still could find themselves as the No. 7 seed, depending on how the final day of the regular season goes.
And then there's the question of: What if Brown needs to sit out of Saturday's game and the ACC Tournament to ensure he's 100% for March Madness?
If the answer to either of those questions is, "Yes," then Kelsey is going to need more of what he got against Syracuse on Tuesday night. But remember: UofL should have looked sharp against a team that's below .500 in league play — and it got outscored 41-38 during the second half.
Ryan Conwell led all scorers with 23 points, followed by J'Vonne Hadley with 19 and McKneely with 16. Together, they accounted for 13 of Louisville's 14 made 3s.
The Cards needed all of them on a night they went 5 for 17 on layups.
Louisville and Miami are set for a 2 p.m. tipoff Saturday at the Watsco Center. The Hurricanes, led by first-year coach Jai Lucas, entered their game Wednesday at SMU third in the ACC standings and 30th in the NET.
UofL will look to salvage its disappointing 3-7 record on the road during the trip to Coral Gables, Florida. Six of those losses have been at the hands of Quad 1A opponents.
This story will be updated.
Reach Louisville men's basketball reporter Brooks Holton at bholton@gannett.com and follow him on X at @brooksHolton.
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Mikel Brown Jr. absent as Louisville basketball handles Syracuse
Florida State entered this midweek contest against Jacksonville coming off of a weekend home sweep against Citadel, and sitting at #18 in the most recent Baseball America poll and #20 in the D1 Baseball poll. Unfortunately whatever momentum they carried was immediately dashed by Jacksonville’s explosive bats early on in Tuesday night’s game. It took a large comeback for Florida State to end up victorious against the Dolphins.
The first pitch of Rhett Vaughn’s outing was sent over the right field fence for a solo shot by Jacksonville’s Cade Walter. This was only the beginning of his disastrous first inning. After giving up back to back laser singles, a double down the right field line brought in the second run of the inning. This was followed by another RBI single that the second baseman Eli Putnam mishandled but was ruled a hit. Another single scored two more Jacksonville Dolphins.
After the sixth hit of the inning, the Seminoles made a pitching change to Kevin Mebil. Rhett Vaughn’s day was over with a line of 0.1 IP, 6 H, 5 ER, and 1K. Mebil came in and was able to escape the first inning being down 5-0.
The Seminoles came out firing in their half of the first inning with a Noah Sheffield double smoked down the left field line that immediately was cashed in by a Myles Bailey line drive single to right field that beat the shift. With two outs, Brody DeLamielleure fought his way deep into a 3-2 count with two outs and lined a double off the fence, scoring Myles Bailey. Following him, the cycle continued with John Stuetzer lining one to right field that ate up the right fielder and got to the wall on a failed dive attempt. Florida State left the 1st inning narrowing the score to 5-3.
Kevin Mebil walked the first batter in the top of the 2nd but quickly retired the side on a fly-out and a comebacker that he turned into a double play. In the bottom half, Chase Williams got on with a single, and a Gabe Fraser slow roller that was botched by the second baseman led to his reaching of base and Chase Williams to advance all the way to third. That was important because a fly ball by the next batter Noah Sheffield led to Williams scoring from third on a tag up. The second closed with the score 5-4 Jacksonville.
Brody DeLamielleure quickly started the bottom half of the third with an opposite field bomb over the right field fence to tie the game at 5. Gabe Nard came in for Florida State to start the fourth. Mebil’s day ended with 2.2 IP, 0 hits, 2 K’s and 1 BB.
In the top of the fifth, Nard let up a walk, but on the next play, Myles Bailey made a stellar play to come off of the first base bag and roll a 3-6-1 double play to close the inning. In the bottom of five, Hunter Carns doubled to lead off the inning before advancing to third on a passed ball. Carter McCulley followed with a walk before John Stuetzer laid down a safety squeeze successfully that scored one and allowed Stuetzer to reach safely. The small ball game continued as Eli Putnam opted for the same bunt strategy and moved over the two runners to second and third with one out. Two batters struck out ending the potential rally for FSU.
Cade O’Leary came out to replace Gabe Nard in the top of the sixth. Gabe Nard’s final line was 2.0 IP, 1 hit, 2BB, and 1K. O’Leary closed out the inning quickly with 2 strikeouts and a fly out.
In the top of the seventh, a wild pitch led to a Jacksonville run to tie this one at six. John Abraham relieved Cade O’Leary with two already on base and one out. Abraham helped get out of the jam with two huge strikeouts. Florida State couldn’t convert on its own runners in scoring position opportunity in the bottom of the inning.
A triple in the top of the 8th made a for an opportune situation for Jacksonville with one out. Abraham struck out the next batter and a bang bang play at first on a ground ball got FSU out of the inning.
John Abraham took the mound again for the ninth and struck out three with his last of the bunch being on a 95mph fastball. John Stuetzer led off the bottom of the ninth with a rocket to the right-center gap to put on a man on second with no outs. After a walk and a subsequent balk, Florida State had two runners in scoring position with no outs and the winning run at third. After an intentional walk, Eli Putnam came up to the plate with the chance to win the game and did just that with a walk-off single to deep center field.
Florida State won this one despite it becoming a bullpen game after just one-third of an inning. Impressive performances by the bullpen marked this one for Florida State with the relievers posting a line of 8.2 IP, 4 hits, 1 ER, 12K’s, and 5 BB. This combined with timely situational baseball late on won the Seminoles this one.
Some standout performances by hitters tonight were John Stuetzer’s 3/3 night with 2 rbi’s, Brody DeLamielleure’s 2/2 with a homer and 2 rbi’s, and Hunter Carns 2/5 with two doubles on the night.
The Seminoles have a quick turnaround as they take on Mercer at home tomorrow; Wednesday at 5 P.M. EST. They will look to continue their five-game win streak against the Bears.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, while the Indianapolis Colts made an ‘aggressive move’ to re-sign Alec Pierce before Tuesday’s late afternoon league tag deadline, all signs were already pointing to the team’s lead wideout testing the free agent waters next mid-week—short of the Horseshoe applying the franchise tag (which the transition tag went to free agent quarterback and Pierce’s passing teammate Daniel Jones instead):
“There’s incentive for the Colts is to do a long-term deal with Daniel Jones, sooner rather than later,” said Rapoport. “Right up against it with the salary cap. They can restructure some guys. They can figure this out. But if they do a long-term deal with Daniel Jones, their cap situation gets a lot easier and that might be pretty important because as you mentioned, Alec Pierce is going to be a free agent.”
“I know the Colts made an aggressive move to try to sign him before the franchise tag deadline. That was never going to happen. Not going to sign, unless he knew for sure who his quarterback was going to be.”
“Now he knows it’s Daniel Jones, but timing is really not on the Colts side here.”
“Today’s Tuesday. Right? So in like five days, or four days, whatever the math may be, the tampering window begins. Players never get this close to free agency and at least don’t entertain offers. It’s hard to imagine he does any deal until at least the end of the week before he’s going to find out what’s out there.”
“Besides George Pickens, who is a franchise tag member of the Dallas Cowboys, this is one of the top free agents regardless of positions. Certainly the top wide receiver. He’s going to get a huge deal, and the Colts, are not [just] competing with themselves, but the entire rest of the NFL.”
Of course, this is shaping up to be what a lot of Colts fans ultimately feared.
Without a franchise tag applied to him, Pierce after a breakout 2026 campaign, in which he led the league in average yards per catch for a consecutive year, hitting the open market as an unrestricted free agent—and essentially free to sign anywhere without significant suitor compensation deterring other teams from offering or even providing the Colts the opportunity to match any offer sheet.
At 25-years-old and still improving as an overall route runner, Pierce caught 47 receptions for 1,003 total receiving yards and 6 touchdowns receptions during 14 starts, but it’s his unique skill-set of separating vertically downfield, high-pointing the football, maintaining body control, and making highly athletic/acrobatic catches through contact that make him one of the league’s truly elite deep threats.
The first waves of free agency can be a frenzy and very unpredictable.
Colts fans saw that firsthand last season when rotational defensive lineman Dayo Odeyingbo inked a 3-year, $48 million deal with the Chicago Bears (featuring $32M guaranteed during the first waves). Pierce is a better player than Odeyingbo was at that stage of their respective careers, and all it takes is one illogical team to make a shocking offer to potentially out-price the Colts from a salary cap standpoint.
As Rapoport notes, with Pickens a recipient of the franchise tag, Pierce now becomes the top free agent wideout.
He had already been speculated as an offseason target for nearly every team potentially in need of a wide receiver upgrade this early offseason, particularly those with bigger and stronger armed quarterbacks.
If push comes to shove, especially if the Colts can’t lock in Jones to a multi-year contract extension, can anyone reasonably blame Pierce, if the money is comparable, that he gets to catch passes from potentially a Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, etc. who are all better quarterbacks and bigger armed for downfield shots?
This is why a lot of Colts fans were clamoring for Pierce to receive the franchise tag, instead of Jones being the recipient of the transition tag. While Jones’ average annual value of his contract will assuredly be higher, Pierce projects to have a lot more interested suitors, as there’s more teams with wide receiver holes than those handful that are in need of a starting quarterback rehabbing from a late season torn Achilles that seem to fit with Jones.
NFL Free Agency is just a week away and the Denver Broncos are primed to do whatever they need to do to get better for the 2026 season. There are no issues with cap or draft picks, so they could go in any number of directions.
One thing that has been rumored lately is on the trade front. Now, before you vote no, this is a two-way street. The question includes both the trade for scenario like an AJ Brown, but it could also mean a big trade away like with some rumors that Ben Powers could be moved.
Would you prefer they stand pat this week or try to pull the trigger on a deal before legal tampering opens up? Vote below and we’ll discuss all the scenarios and the results of this survey later in the week!
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Broncos fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
Marc Bernal scored twice for Barcelona on Tuesday night as Hansi Flick’s side beat Atletico Madrid 3-0 in the Copa del Rey but went out of the competition 4-3 on aggregate.
The midfielder now has four goals in his last five matches for Barcelona and admitted after the game it was a “bittersweet” moment for him.
“Happy with what the team has given and thanks to the fans. It has been special, but bittersweet because we were one goal short and couldn’t advance,” he said.
Barcelona’s defence of their Copa del Rey trophy has now ended, but Bernal says his team can go on and taste glory in both the league and in Europe this season.
“If we go in with this mentality and hunger, we can achieve great things,” he added. “We’re going to go all out, compete in the Champions League round of 16 and the League.”
Barcelona will take a few days to recover but then face another big week at home and abroad. First up is a trip to Athletic Club before a game against Newcastle in the Champions League.
Nearly 17 months into collective bargaining negotiations that have vacillated between flurries of activity and periods of silence, the dam broke on Tuesday. It laid bare the issues that had been rumbling within the WNBA Players Association for months.
Not everyone agrees. Not everyone is being considered, or even involved. Not everyone knows what’s going on. And all this as the union and league barrel toward the March 10 date the league gave the WNBPA as the CBA deadline for the season to start on time.
It’s messier by the minute.
ESPN reported Tuesday night that Kelsey Plum, first vice president of the union, and Breanna Stewart, a vice president, wrote a private letter to union executive director Terri Jackson voicing concerns about how the union is handling the negotiations, “including the lack of adequate player involvement in the process.”
They said that despite the union opting out of the previous CBA more than 16 months ago, they have “been privy to details of these negotiations for less than two months, having first seen a proposal in January,” per ESPN. Their requests for specific information from the union have gone unfulfilled, they said. It makes sense that a flurry of proposals have now gone back and forth within the past few weeks, after the stalemate following a third deadline the sides failed to extend.
Breanna Stewart talks WNBA CBA negotiations:
— Sportico (@Sportico) March 2, 2026
"If you look at... the union's deal, or the league's deal... both are not ready to be voted on. Because both need to be negotiated up or down, or in a number of ways." pic.twitter.com/4mcFg9wDaF
That’s unacceptable for two members of the executive committee, who should be conduits of information between Jackson, union president Nneka Ogwumike and each team’s player representatives. And it stands in direct contrast to the public party line that communication within the union has been solid, even amid private rumblings of concerns and a lack of information. There is no excuse. Jackson and Ogwumike have been in their positions since 2016, and worked on the 2020 CBA that was viewed as progressive at the time.
The claims are strong. They’re also unsurprising, as is Plum and Stewart being at the center of it. They are largely the most willing of the executive committee to speak on CBA issues and provide in-depth, nuanced responses. Plum broke the news of January’s in-person meeting in New York, which broke the weeks-long stalemate between proposals. That was no accident.
Understanding what the group of reporters waiting for her was ready to ask, and that she had a duty to speak on it, she took it upon herself not only to tell, but to offer optimism. Ahead of Monday’s Unrivaled semifinals in Brooklyn, both Plum and Stewart denounced a potential strike and highlighted the positive player advances in recent proposals.
"I've always been someone that's focused on the gain, not the gap,” Plum told reporters. “And to be honest, I think if you look at where we've come from, shoot, since I came into the league until now, and now that we're in a revenue share, it's a tremendous win.”
Meanwhile, within the past few weeks, others on the executive committee have attempted to duck questions about the CBA proposals or have made themselves scarce. There are often claims of needing to align on messaging.
No wonder it took time to align if some were kept in the dark. And those who accidentally or purposefully stepped out of what the leaders desired took heat. Why speak at all, internally or otherwise?
"When we and other players have attempted to express concerns about negotiations, we have been made to feel as though we are acting against the interests of the PA," the letter read, per ESPN. "Many other players across the league feel these same frustrations and have expressed them to us, but feel afraid or unable to speak out."
It’s the players who have to live with this CBA and its ramifications. They shouldn’t be, according to Plum and Stewart, “largely … excluded from” the negotiations. There’s no reason to button up their opinions when they're the very people the union is working to help. It has all felt very heavy-handed from the top, when the reality is, a negotiation is, by definition, a discussion aimed at reaching an agreement. Change is incremental; it can’t be done all at once.
Plum has often and quite publicly said that. As time dwindles, there is no other option but an impacted season. Even if some players saved money for the past two years in preparation for a potential strike, as the union advised, that’s not easy to live through financially. And the league has offered much of what the players have asked for, including developmental players, acquiescing on housing, movement on salary caps and accelerating rookie contracts. The union has been less clear, speaking only of revenue sharing and its incremental changes over the last few weeks.
There’s also a valid concern about the league’s long-term financial health. If either of the proposals on the table were codified today, the players will receive revenue-sharing. To revenue-share, you need revenue. And to bring in revenue, there need to be games.
That’s all Stewart and Plum were saying this week in Brooklyn. Behind the scenes, they’ve been saying a lot more. Their direct call to union leadership for failing players is a turning point in these talks. Whether that’s for better or for worse.
The Sporting News High School Boys Basketball Top 25 — March 2: AZ Compass Prep heads into a bye week still ranked No. 1 originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The AZ Compass Prep National [Chandler, AZ] Dragons haven't budged in their second stint as the No. 1 team in The Sporting News High School Boys Basketball Top 25, and it could be a while before they do.
The Dragons are off this week and guaranteed to hold down the top spot in next week's rankings before the EYBL Championship tournament tips off later in the week.
No. 5 SPIRE Academy [Geneva, OH] National's loss to the La Lumiere [La Porte, IN] Lakers dropped the Ohio squad down to No. 12 this week. They were highest-ranked team to lose, and it also opened up an opportunity for La Lumiere to return to the rankings in the No. 20 position.
Two other teams make their SN Top 25 debuts this week as the No. 24 Greensboro [NC] Day School Bengals and No. 25 Archbishop Riordan [San Francisco, CA] Crusaders join the party. Greensboro Day is fresh off winning North Carolina's NCISAA Class 3A state championship, and Archbishop Riordan is in action this Friday night in California's CIF Open Division Regional Semifinals.
2025-26 record: 23-1
Previous ranking: No. 1
Upcoming games: No games scheduled this week
AZ Compass Prep has wrapped up its regular season, and now we await word of the Dragons' postseason plans.
2025-26 record: 16-1
Previous ranking: No. 2
Upcoming games: No games scheduled this week
Dynamic Prep doesn't have any more games showing on their schedule, but we continue to await any updates to the team's postseason schedule.
2025-26 record: 22-1
Previous ranking: No. 3
Upcoming games: 3/9 — vs. NSU University
Calvary Christian Academy has officially clinched a spot in Florida's FHSAA Class 3A semifinals, and that game is set for next Monday night.
2025-26 record: 31-3
Previous ranking: No. 4
Upcoming games: 3/5 — vs. Forges Academy; 3/6 — TBD; 3/7 — CPCAN
Prolific Prep's regular season is winding down toward its conclusion this week, and then we'll await word on the Crew's potential postseason plans.
2025-26 record: 33-2
Previous ranking: No. 6
Upcoming games: No games scheduled this week
Paul VI captured Virginia's VISAA Division I state championship last week, and now they await word on whether they've done enough to warrant an invitation to April's Chipotle Nationals tournament.
2025-26 record: 27-1
Previous ranking: No. 7
Upcoming games: 3/7 — vs. Redondo Union/Santa Margarita winner
Sierra Canyon won the CIF's Southern Section Open Division championship, earning a first-round bye in this week's state tournament. They'll get the winner of Redondo Union vs. Santa Margarita this coming Saturday in the regional semifinals.
2025-26 record: 23-2
Previous ranking: No. 9
Upcoming games: 3/3 — vs. Monroe City
Principia is in action Tuesday night against Monroe City in Missouri's MSHSAA Class 3 sectionals as they begin their march toward a possible state championship.
2025-26 record — 25-3
Previous ranking — No. 10
Upcoming games: No games scheduled this week
Link Academy's regular season has wrapped up, and like many of the teams ranked above them, we await updates on their postseason schedule.
2025-26 record: 21-5
Previous ranking: No. 8
Upcoming games: No games scheduled this week
Wasatch Academy has concluded its regular season, and like many of the other high-ranked teams, awaits word on any future postseason opportunities.
2025-26 record: 21-5
Previous ranking: No. 11
Upcoming games: No games scheduled this week
TBD
STREAM: High school boys basketball, live on NFHS Network
2025-26 record: 16-4
Previous ranking: No. 12
Upcoming games: No games scheduled this week
TBD
2025-26 record: 26-3
Previous ranking: No. 5
Upcoming games: No games scheduled this week
TBD
2025-26 record: 23-4
Previous ranking: No. 13
Upcoming games: 3/4 — vs. Holy Cross
Archbishop Stepinac's postseason journey continues Wednesday against Holy Cross in the CHSAA Class AA semifinals.
2025-26 record: 27-4
Previous ranking: No. 14
Upcoming games: 3/5 — vs. Whitehaven
Bartlett advanced to the regional finals Tuesday night with a 52-39 win over Southwind, and next up is a date with Whitehaven in the regional finals on Thursday.
2025-26 record: 35-0
Previous ranking: No. 15
Upcoming games: 3/3 — vs. Atascocita
Seven Lakes is set to face Atascocita Tuesday night in the Texas UIL Class 6A Division I regional semifinals.
2025-26 record: 23-0
Previous ranking: No. 17
Upcoming games: 3/6 – vs. Hamilton Southeastern
Fishers continues its march in Indiana's IHSAA Class 4A playoffs Friday against Hamilton Southeastern in the state semifinals.
2025-26 record: 24-0
Previous ranking: No. 18
Upcoming games: 3/6 — vs. Tremper/Indian Trail winner
Wisconsin Lutheran awaits the winner of Tremper vs. Indian Trail on Tuesday night in the second round of Wisconsin's WIAA Division I playoffs
2025-26 record: 26-2
Previous ranking: No. 19
Upcoming games: 3/4 — vs. Basha
Sunnyslope inched one step closer to an opportunity to play for Arizona's AIA Open Division state championship last week, and next up is a date in the semifinals against Basha.
2025-26 record: 31-1
Previous ranking: No. 20
Upcoming games: 3/6 — vs. TBD
Benet Academy has punched its ticket to the Illinois IHSA Class 4A Super Sixteen, and they await word on their opponent for a game that is scheduled to be played Friday.
2025-26 record: 21-4
Previous ranking: Unranked
Upcoming games: 3/4 — vs. Bosco Institute
La Lumiere has one more regular-season game left before heading to the EYBL Conference Tournament.
2025-26 record: 26-1
Previous ranking: No. 22
Upcoming games: 3/5 — vs. Shorewood/O'Dea winner
Rainier Beach earned a first-round bye, and now the Vikings await the winner of Shorewood vs. O'Dea for Thursday night matchup in Washington's WIAA Class 3A quarterfinals.
2025-26 record: 29-0
Previous ranking: No. 23
Upcoming games: 3/4 — vs. Dutchtown
Gainesville heads into Georgia's GHSA Class 5A quarterfinals Wednesday night still unbeaten on the season.
2025-26 record: 24-3
Previous ranking: No. 24
Upcoming games: 3/4 Z— vs. St. Mary's
Millennium heads into Arizona's AIA Open Division semifinals against St. Mary's looking to possibly set up a matchup with Sunnyslope for the state title. The two teams split their regular-season matchup.
2025-26 record: 36-2
Previous ranking: Unranked
Upcoming games: No games scheduled this week
Greensboro Day School has been on the Top 25 "bubble" for weeks, and they finally crack SN's Top 25 this week after winning North Carolina's NCISAA Class 3A state championship. Will there be another postseason invitation forthcoming for the Bengals?
2025-26 record: 27-1
Previous ranking: Unranked
Upcoming games: 3/7 — vs. Modesto Christian/De La Salle winner
Archbishop Riordan earned a bye to the California's CIF Open Division Regional Semifinals, and they're off until Saturday night until they meet the winner of Modesto Christian vs. De La Salle in their Top 25 debut.
Here are the best of the rest — teams under consideration for the SN Top 25.
MORE HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL
The recent slump from the Vegas Golden Knights has not deterred general manager Kelly McCrimmon from making moves.
On Tuesday, mere hours after falling to the Buffalo Sabres, a trade was announced by TSN’s Darren Dreger that the Golden Knights have acquired forward Cole Smith from the Nashville Predators in exchange for a 2028 3rd round pick.
Vegas acquires Cole Smith
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) March 4, 2026
For a 3rd in 2028
Smith was pulled early from a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday, a clear indication that a trade was imminent. While the Tampa Bay Lightning were reportedly interested, the Golden Knights emerged as the winners for Smith’s services.
A native of Brainerd, MN, the 30-year-old Smith is known for his defensive prowess and physicality. His 119 hits and 31 penalty minutes should be a boon for the Golden Knights’ bottom six group, adding some much needed toughness to a group that has clearly needed a spark in that department.
Smith has not been an offensive dynamo, only scoring six goals and 10 points this season, but the Golden Knights have the infrastructure in place to ensure it is not needed.
Smith arrives to the Golden Knights on the final year of a two-year deal worth $1 million AAV, making him an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season.
With the Golden Knights in a late-season tailspin, they hope Smith is part of the solution that can get them back on the right track. McCrimmon now has a little under 72 hours to see if he has another move up his sleeve.
The 2025-26 Vegas Golden Knights are remarkably consistent. Unfortunately, they’re consistent in all the wrong ways— they have a tendency to only start playing well once they’ve fallen behind by two or more goals. They’ve managed to salvage points out of many of those efforts, but it’s hardly a recipe for success.
It happened again on Tuesday when the Golden Knights took on the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center. The Sabres jumped out to a 3-0 lead early in the second period, and only then did the Golden Knights respond. They played exceptionally well for just under 35 minutes of play, but it wasn’t enough, and the Sabres held on for a 3-2 win.
“It’s just tough to go down several goals and come back to win games,” said Colton Sissons postgame. “We’re constantly finding ways to make it interesting, but it’s just too little too late again.”
The Sabres opened the scoring just 4:02 into the first period. Ryan McLeod tried to find Jack Quinn for a back-door tap-in, but his pass went off Jack Eichel’s skate. The puck bounced right to Jason Zucker at the goal line, and the Las Vegas native tapped it home.
The Sabres doubled their lead just 46 seconds into the second period. Noah Ostlund won the offensive zone face-off back to Owen Power, who walked the line and wristed a shot on goal from distance. Rasmus Andersson partially screened Akira Schmid, and Power’s shot went off Andersson’s glove and into the net.
The Sabres added to their lead at 5:44 in the second. Alex Tuch flew into the offensive zone and threaded a pass to Tage Thompson. Thompson stepped up into the right circle and snapped a wristed past Akira Schmid far-side.
That’s when everything shifted, and the Golden Knights responded just 1:06 later. Jack Eichel set up Shea Theodore for a one-timer, but the shot went wide. Alex Lyon denied Ivan Barbashev’s stuff attempt, so Barbashev jammed it home on a wraparound.
The Golden Knights made it a one-goal game at 8:27 in the second. Reilly Smith forced a turnover and chipped the puck out of the zone, and Pavel Dorofeyev got to it first. Dorofeyev raced up ice, protected the puck, and beat Alex Lyon five-hole.
Despite only trailing by a goal, the Golden Knights struggled to generate offense in the third period. They failed to rise to the moment and looked uninspired while doing so. In addition to hitting a few crossbars, they managed just six shots on goal in the final frame and fell 3-2.
1. Credit where it’s due: Alex Lyon played very well tonight in net for the Sabres. He saved 27 of 29 shots and finished the night with a .931 SV% and a 1.85 GSAx. That being said, the Golden Knights simply didn’t do enough to make his life difficult. They challenged him just six times in the third period. That isn’t going to result in wins very often– especially when they’re trying to complete a comeback.
2. The Golden Knights are floundering; with a 3-6-2 record in their last 11 games, they’re at serious risk of losing control of the Pacific Division. Their biggest issue, of course, is their slow starts. Sure, they made it competitive tonight. Big whoop. Moral victories mean very little to begin with, and even less this time of year when points are at a premium.
Chasing a lead is exhausting, and the Golden Knights have made a habit of that. In 61 games played, they’ve spent 1502:48 trailing, which is the fourth-most in the league. The fact that they’re still currently leading the Pacific Division says more about the state of the division than it does about their quality of play.
“We’ve been down this road before,” said head coach Bruce Cassidy following the 3-2 loss. “We get behind, sort of get punched in the face. Then we get to our game— we’ve been talking about trying to get there before that happens, a lot.”
3. The hockey gods haven’t smiled upon the Golden Knights’ goaltenders this season. Their team Goals Against Above Expected is 25.42– that’s the second-worst in the entire league. But tonight, goaltending was the least of their worries.
Tonight, their biggest problem was that they couldn’t score three goals. Following the loss, head coach Bruce Cassidy called the team out for underperforming offensively.
“[Goaltending] has plagued us some nights, where we needed an extra save,” said Bruce Cassidy postgame. “Tonight, we needed another goal… I think there’s some guys at the bottom of the lineup that have typically scored more, and so far that hasn’t happened. That’s how one-goal losses happen.”
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Dave McMenamin: “I don’t know why it went viral, it felt very normal to me” - JJ Redick on his interaction with Luka Doncic on the bench during the Warriors game that got a little heated
“I don’t know why it went viral, it felt very normal to me” - JJ Redick on his interaction with Luka Doncic on the bench during the Warriors game that got a little heated pic.twitter.com/jNPF2KFBUO
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) March 4, 2026
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Khobi Price: JJ Redick had quite a bit to say pregame about "organized offense":
JJ Redick had quite a bit to say pregame about "organized offense": pic.twitter.com/jxxSqDkID8
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Mike Curtis: Final: #Hornets 117, #Mavs 90. Dallas drops its fourth straight and first of a season-long six-game road trip. Not enough 3-point shooting. Mavs made 3 of 22. Charlotte made 20 of 51. Brandon Williams led with 18 points. Brandon Miller led Charlotte with 17 points.
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Discussing what it was like to play for the Jazz with reporters on Tuesday, Anderson noted that while he liked everyone in Utah, he wasn't a huge fan of their lose-first mentality, as he prefers to go all-out in pursuit of a win. “I don't even want to get into it, honestly. I had a lot of fun in the organization, and everybody in the organization was awesome,” Anderson said. “Obviously, you know, playing not-to-win games gets a little tricky and tough. I didn't enjoy it personally, but, you know, the staff, the players, I love the players. The staff is really cool, the people in the organization are awesome. Nothing bad to say about that.”
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KC Johnson: Billy Donovan said Matas Buzelis, who didn’t play 4th quarter after rolling his ankle, sprained his ankle
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76ers-Thunder Jared McCain trade already looks incredibly one-sided originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Philadelphia 76ers couldn't figure out how to use Jared McCain this season.
So before the NBA trade deadline, they sent the talented second-year guard to the Oklahoma City Thunder. And everything has changed.
McCain is thriving in OKC.
He's nearly doubled his scoring average (6.6 to 12.5 points per game) from his stats with the 76ers this season to his stats with the Thunder.
He's also shooting better from the field (38.5 to 48.5%) and better from 3-point range (37.8 to 43.1%).
MORE: Rip Hamilton's son is committed to play D-I college basketball
It wasn't hard to see this coming, either.
As a rookie with the 76ers, McCain was leading the Rookie of the Year race with a potent start to his NBA career out of Duke before he went down with a season-ending injury.
By the time McCain made it back to the court this season following an additional injury, he had fallen out of the rotation.
Philly occasionally made an effort to incorporate him, but at other points, the 76ers pretty much let McCain just rot on the bench. It's as if they forgot what he had already done for them, and the level he had already proven to be able to reach in the NBA.
So instead of allowing him to rediscover his development, the 76ers instead traded McCain to the Thunder, who consistently help players reach their maximum potential.
It already looks like yet another steal for OKC, and a move the 76ers may come to regret.
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: While Chauncey Billups and 30 others await the latest …
Just a few days into March, there's already an overarching sense of Madness floating through the air. Tuesday night's UNC-Clemson matchup proved that point to a T.
The Tar Heels and Tigers battled for ACC Tournament positioning on an emotional evening, with the Dean Dome crowd celebrating seniors Seth Trimble and Elijah Davis. North Carolina trailed by five at halftime, struggling to find an offensive rhythm.
UNC looked like a completely different team out of the half, scoring 40 second-half points en route to a 67-63 victory over the Tigers (21-9, 11-6 ACC).
Luka Bogavac, whom the Tar Heels (24-6, 12-5 ACC) targeted in offseason recruiting efforts due to his sharpshooting ability, delivered in what fans dub "The Luka game." Bogavac exploded for a career-high 20 points in a North Carolina uniform, with 17 of those coming in the second half.
Bogavac caught a heater from beyond the arc, with all six of his field goals via the 3-point variety. Bogavac later set his career high on a pair of free throws, which is still a work in progress for UNC.
Jarin Stevenson, another junior and Chapel Hill native, delivered the game-saving plays his Tar Heels needed. Stevenson dove after loose balls, saved basketball out-of-bounds and finished with a game-high 10 rebounds.
Offensively, RJ Godfrey single-handedly kept Clemson within striking distance by scoring a career-high 22 points. Godfrey missed his final shot, though, a layup in the closing seconds which Trimble grabbed – and set cheers off throughout the Dean Dome.
In a game North Carolina needed to win, players delivered for 40 minutes in an instant classic. Take a look at several postgame social media reactions below, which are filled with happy thoughts.
And if Luka just wanted to wait till March to show out.
— Vαℓαrie ♛ (@LeeenaBellle87) March 4, 2026
I won’t complain.
Luka Bogavac dropped a career-high 20-piece and 6️⃣ threes to seal the dub for @UNC_Basketball 💪 pic.twitter.com/hnn3gXk0X3
— ACC Network (@accnetwork) March 4, 2026
Luka Bogavac. Cold-blooded!!!
— Andrew Forrest (@Andrew_Forrest1) March 4, 2026
LUKA‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️
— Theo pinson (@tpinsonn) March 4, 2026
The Luka Bogavac game.
— Josh Graham (@JoshGrahamShow) March 4, 2026
Giving off Cormac Ryan vibes.
LUKA BOGAVAC pic.twitter.com/4bqFsddXay
— NonStopCarolina🐏 (@NonStopCarolina) March 4, 2026
Thank you, Seth Trimble, for four great years. #GoHeels
— Christina Reynolds (@creynoldsnc) March 4, 2026
Seth Trimble’s final words in his #UNC senior speech: “I really, really hope to see the Smith Center here for a long time.”
— Noah Weiskopf (@NoahWeiskopf) March 4, 2026
In a era where there arent many players who stay 4 years at 1 university its truly special to see Seth not only get that last home win but to never lose a game at home in his last year. He will go down as one of the fans favorite Tar Heel not just bc of play but his loyalty. 🐏🩵
— Matthew (@Matthew33420319) March 4, 2026
Survive and advance season, folks. #UNC finishes 18-0 at home for the first time in program history. Seth scores the final point, Elijah Davis gets another late check-in,
— Jacob Turner (@JacobTurnerNC) March 4, 2026
All around good vibes on the Hill.
Heels win a rock fight and are still alive for a double bye in the ACC Tournament.
— Andrew Forrest (@Andrew_Forrest1) March 4, 2026
More importantly, they go to 5-1 in games without Caleb Wilson (two of which Veesaar didn’t play, either).
I don’t think even the most optimistic of UNC fans saw them going 5-1 in this stretch.
We are now huge Miami fans.
— Isaac Schade (@isaacschade) March 4, 2026
If the Hurricanes win at SMU tomorrow night, Carolina will clinch a double-bye & ACC Tournament 4-seed.
Initial UNC/Clemson thoughts:
— Josh "Fitty" Marlow (@HTB_Josh) March 4, 2026
-Winning on Senior Day never gets old. Happy for Seth & Elijah
-New school record for most home wins in a single season (18) environment was great all season long in the Smith Center
-First 20 point game of Luka Bogavac’s UNC career. Couldn’t have…
Joe Lunardi has now moved UNC down to last 4 in
— NonStopCarolina🐏 (@NonStopCarolina) March 4, 2026
Derek Dixon pass to Seth Trimble to beat Dook and his shot tonight against Clemson shows that kid's clutch ability as a scorer & passer! Cant wait to see what this team looks like when Caleb returns! We have a legit 8/9 man rotation wit High Powell Stevenson (Ky/Young) off bench!
— My Name is Mario & I am a Tar Heel (@Briccyardlilyo) March 4, 2026
This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: UNC Basketball: Social media reacts to Senior Night win vs. Clemson
Bossier High advanced into the LHSAA Non-Select Division II quarterfinals for an eighth consecutive season Tuesday, March 3 with a 69-41 victory over Assumption in the Bearkat gym.
Ron Dillard and Braylyn Robinson led the way offensively with 19 and 18 points, respectively, while DT Thomas chimed in with 11. The Bearkats (21-9) keep winning with hopes of making the state title game again.
“This feels good, especially losing our guy TJ Bunnery due to an ACL tear,” Bossier coach Justin Collins said. “We’re looking forward to our matchup with Franklin Parish.”
Bunnery went down Feb. 6 versus Minden with his injury and was one of the team leaders at the time.
NICE MOVE: After aging out of foster care, Bossier athlete finds loving home
Natchitoches Central 68, East Ascension 50: The Chiefs (28-4) move into the LHSAA Non-Select Division I quarters for a third consecutive season and for the 13th time in 16 seasons with a dominating win at home. J’Dell Demery paced the win with 24 points and nine rebounds, while Khaelyb Creighton and Harold Remo added 12 points apiece.
Calvary 72, Rosepine 42: The Cavaliers (30-4) had little trouble advancing to the LHSAA Select Division III quarterfinals with the home win over Rosepine. Jaiden Hall dropped in 14 points with seven steals and five assists while TJ Jamison added 13 points with eight assists and five rebounds. Robert Wright contributed 13 points and eight boards while Craig Davis chipped in with 12 points in a balanced scoring attack.
“All our focus shifts to Catholic-New Iberia now,” Calvary coach Vic Morris said. “We have to be ready to play a complete game for 32 minutes or more.”
Captain Shreve 57, St. Augustine 46: The Gators (19-11) had to go on the road and defeat the No. 3 seed but they managed it in strong fashion behind 22 points from Jacob Richardson and 14 from Erron Williams. Shreve also got nine points from Niran Ogunyemi and seven from Kameron Rivers.
“Our road to the Top 28 runs through New Orleans and we’re excited to be in the mix and playing our best basketball at the right time,” Shreve coach Brandon Gultery said. “Let’s keep building. One team. One mission.”
Huntington 76, Jesuit 63 OT: The Raiders (22-7) were forced to go into overtime on the road to advance to the LHSAA Select Division I quarterfinals. Peyton Parker led the way with 23 points while Austin Turner chipped in 18 and Antonio Dixon 16 for coach Mack Jones.
Green Oaks 54, Red River 47: The Giants won in Coushatta behind 17 points and 13 rebounds from Quantavious Sanford along with 15 points and 10 boards from Javontaye Dean. The Bulldogs (22-11) were paced by Demarche Newton with 18 points along with Collin Stafford and Malique Smith with 10 apiece.
Parkway 63, Sulphur 57 OT: The Panthers (19-15) won on the road in the Non-Select Division I playoffs and now will visit No. 2 Ruston in the quarterfinals. Parkway was led by KB Williams (15 points) Tristan Sedberry (14) and Caleb Evans (11).
Jimmy Watson covers Louisiana sports for the USA TODAY Network. Email him at jwatson@shreveporttimes.com and follow him on Twitter @JimmyWatson6.
This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: Parkway, Shreve, NCHS, Green Oaks win second-round LHSAA contests
Rutgers football has hired former Drake defensive line coach Joe Evans to be its new assistant defensive line coach, according to a report by Brian Fonseca of NJ Advanced Media. Evans joins the Rutgers coaching staff after just one season as a Drake assistant. Evans joins rush ends coach Joe Woodley and safeties coach Adam Cox as former Drake coaches now on Rutgers’ defensive coaching staff.
During his one season at Drake, Evans helped to develop defensive lineman Jacob Auen, who had six sacks last season, Nolan Korzeniowski, who had four sacks last season, and Gene Blalock, who also had four sacks last season.
Evans joined Drake’s coaching staff after having a standout college career at Iowa. After walking on at Iowa in 2019, Evans finished his college career with 135 total tackles, 35.0 tackles for loss, 28.0 sacks, four forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. Evans competed against Rutgers during his time at Iowa, terrorizing the Knights in their 2022 matchup, recording four sacks in the Hawkeyes 27-10 win over Rutgers.
Evans went undrafted after leaving college, but landed on the Baltimore Ravens practice squad in 2024 for a brief stint before being released.
Evans will now work under Rutgers’ new defensive line coach, Dennis Dottin-Carter.
In his team’s first game of March, Bill Self watched Kansas men’s basketball fall behind a middling Arizona State team by seven points in the first half.
Apparently, he’d seen enough.
The legendary Jayhawks coach was ejected from the matchup against the Sun Devils on Tuesday, March 6 with 6:07 remaining in the first half and No. 15 Kansas trailing, 23-16.
Self appeared to be arguing a foul call against freshman phenom Darryn Peterson, which sent Arizona State to the free-throw line with a chance to extend its lead. He was assessed a double technical for his efforts, and Self was ejected.
Kansas HC Bill Self is given a technical and ejected from the game, after a foul was called on Darryn Peterson on this play. pic.twitter.com/3dOV8vKnHh
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) March 4, 2026
REQUIRED READING: March Madness bracketology: NCAA Tournament projection has changes on bubble
With Self back in the locker room, the Jayhawks are being led the rest of the game by assistant coach and former Kansas star Jacque Vaughn. Vaughn picked up a technical foul with 43 seconds remaining in the first half.
It is just the third ejection of Self’s head-coaching career, which began in 1993 at Oral Roberts.
With 15:13 remaining in the second half, the Jayhawks were trailing the Sun Devils 42-33.
After an eight-game win streak appeared to right a frustrating season, Kansas has lost three of its past five games, with each of those losses coming by at least 16 points.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bill Self ejected from Kansas basketball's game at Arizona State
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Back in the win column.
After suffering back-to-back losses twice in the month of February, Illinois looks to have gotten back on track with a 80-54 win over Oregon on Tuesday night at the State Farm Center. With the win, the Illini move closer to securing a top four finish in the Big Ten standings and a triple-bye in next week’s Big Ten Tournament.
Illinois honored three players ahead of their final career home game. Kylan Boswell, Ben Humrichous, and AJ Redd were able to conclude their careers in the State Farm Center with a massive win.
Boswell had a relatively quiet night by his standards, finishing with just three points on 1-for-6 from the field. Humrichous did what he does best and knocked down two triples.
Redd entered the game to thunderous applause and the arena erupted when the walk-on from Chicago splashed a three and finished a tough layup in the final minute of the game.
Despite the Senior Night festivities, it was junior Andrej Stojakovic that led the way for the Illini against the Ducks. After being shut out of the scoring column against Michigan last Friday, Stojakovic made it known that he would be an aggressor tonight.
He relentlessly attacked the rim on offense and turned in the best rebounding performance (12 rebounds) of his career. Stojakovic finished the night with 21 points, 12 rebounds, and 2 assists. He shot an efficient 7-for-9 from inside the arc and made all seven of his free throws.
Illinois’ star freshmen did their part offensively as well. Keaton Wagler’s 11 points, three rebounds, and four assists in the first half set the tone for the Illini, while David Mirkovic’s 19 points on 8-for-15 shooting kept Illinois going steady throughout.
Oregon struck first on Illinois’ Senior Night, getting out to an early 9-3 lead. Unfortunately for Oregon, that lead was very short-lived. Illinois quickly scored 21 unanswered and held the Ducks scoreless for more than six minutes. Oregon failed to convert on 12 straight field goal attempts during Illinois’ run.
That run was reminiscent of the 20-0 run Illinois went on against UCLA 10 days ago. Except this time around against a West Coast foe, Illinois remained in control after the dominant run. The extended 38-12 run in the final 15 minutes of the first half gave Illinois major breathing room heading into the locker room as they led 41-21.
Despite an ugly first half showing, Oregon didn’t back down to begin the second half. The Ducks cut a 22-point Illini lead to just 13 points with 13 minutes to play. Senior center Nate Bittle carried the load offensively, finishing the game with 15 points and 5 rebounds.
Another extended Oregon shooting slump of 9 straight missed shots gave Illinois a major cushion as the clock wound down. The Ducks shot an abysmal 32.8% from the field and 17.2% from beyond the arc. Illinois had an uncharacteristically poor second half shooting the ball, making just three of its 21 threes.
THE highlight of the night.
Manager ➡️ walk-on@IlliniMBB's AJ Redd hit two late baskets to put up a career-high 5 points on his senior night 🙌 pic.twitter.com/uFBHzLwsh8
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) March 4, 2026
Senior Night for Kylan, Ben, and AJ.
It’s Senior Night in Champaign 🧡 pic.twitter.com/uiYOrZSY6T
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) March 4, 2026
You should not be able to pass like this if you’re 7’1.
What a look by Tomislav Ivisic 🤯 @IlliniMBB
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) March 4, 2026
📺: Peacock pic.twitter.com/KUUHXOSeBG
Tough finish from Stojakovic.
Andrej Stojakovic converts with contact for @IlliniMBB 😤
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) March 4, 2026
📺: Peacock pic.twitter.com/PHPvPvXfdM
Illinois concludes its regular season with a trip to College Park, Maryland this Sunday. The Fighting Illini take on the Terrapins at 2 p.m. on FOX. It’s off to Chicago for the Big Ten Tournament after the brief East Coast trip.
Cam Newton blames Arch Manning for the worst QB draft class in 20 years originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Cam Newton stirred debate about the upcoming NFL Draft class this week. The former NFL MVP argues that Texas quarterback Arch Manning’s decision to remain in college is a major reason the 2026 quarterback group lacks star power.
During a recent 4th & 1 podcast, Newton discussed draft prospects and called the 2026 quarterback class “the worst in the last two decades,” suggesting the absence of Manning at the top of the pool has dramatically changed how evaluators view the group.
“This is the actual worst quarterback draft class in the last two decades,” Newton said. “And you want to know who’s to blame? Arch Manning.”
Newton clarified his comments were not meant as criticism of Manning’s ability, but rather the immense expectations that surrounded the Texas quarterback entering his college career. Manning, the grandson of Archie Manning and nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning, was widely viewed as a generational prospect.
Newton said many expected Manning to develop into a player who combined elite athletic traits with the football intelligence associated with the Manning family name.
More: Trent Dilfer says he was 'forced' to take UAB head coaching job
With Manning’s decision to return to Texas, all of that pushed expectations into the future.
When looking at the 2026 draft pool, Newton said the quarterback group, which includes Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, Alabama’s Ty Simpson, Miami’s Carson Beck and Vanderbilt’s Diego Pavia, lacks a clear franchise-level prospect.
“I don’t really see a franchise quarterback,” Newton said. “I just don’t see it.”
More: Ohio State's Ryan Day faces backlash after NFL Combine
Newton added that Manning’s return could dramatically boost the following draft cycle. With prospects such as Manning, Dante Moore, LaNorris Sellers, Trinidad Chambliss and Julian Sayin expected to headline the 2027 class, Newton predicted it could become one of the most talented quarterback drafts in recent memory.
Anyway you stack it, the group of elite quarterbacks will be fun to watch in the 2026 college football season.
Tis the season of WWE WrestleMania, and according to reports, multiple creative rewrites. As it pertains to the Undisputed WWE Championship, the latest rewrite has reportedly resulted in Randy Orton battling a long-time friend of his for the title on WWE's grandest stage.
According to PWI Elite, WWE's current plans are believed to being calling for Orton, the winner of the 2026 Men's Elimination Chamber, to challenge Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas. As it stands, that title is held by Drew McIntyre, who dethroned Rhodes in a Three Stages of Hell match on the January 9 edition of "WWE SmackDown." Following McIntyre's involvement in the Royal Rumble and Elimination Chamber at Rhodes' expense, though, "SmackDown" General Manager Nick Aldis confirmed that "The Scottish Warrior" and "The American Nightmare" would meet in a rematch this Friday, with the Undisputed WWE Championship on the line.
PWI Elite indicates that Rhodes is expected to unseat McIntyre as champion on "SmackDown," thus setting the stage for him and Orton, former Legacy members, to collide one-on-one at WrestleMania. One WWE source told the outlet that the likely title change is not a dig at McIntyre's work for the company, but rather a way for WWE to produce the major Rhodes-Orton match they wanted this year. Orton winning the Men's Elimination Chamber was also reportedly viewed as a "nice surprise" to fans.
McIntyre's direction after his expected title loss on Friday is unclear, though based on previous reports, a multi-man match involving the Undisputed WWE Championship has been on the table as a possibility before.
Read more: WWE SmackDown Stars: Meet Their Wives & Girlfriends
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Read the original article on Wrestling Inc.
CALEDONIA - When Makai Campos was getting hugs from friends and family after the game, there were no smiles.
It was a rough ending to a strong season for the West Ottawa High School boys basketball season.
West Ottawa lost to East Kentwood 75-59 on Tuesday, March 3, in a Division 1 regional semifinal game at Caledonia.
“It’s sad it had to end like it did today,” Campos said.
More: Jake Holcomb powers energized Holland Christian past Niles into regional final
Panthers guard JT Gill scored the first bucket of the game and it was all downhill after that. East Kentwood’s defensive pressure was smothering, and they led 19-7 after the first quarter and 38-21 at halftime.
“It was a lack of communication and energy on defense,” Campos said. “They had 19 points in the first quarter and that’s not acceptable.”
Campos, a junior guard, led West Ottawa (13-11) with 25 points. Darien Stewart had nine points and seven rebounds and Quentin Edwards eight points and eight rebounds.
“Obviously, Kentwood is a great team,” Panthers coach Jared Redell said. “It was going to have to take our best effort to beat ‘em. I felt like we had it in us. But it’s not the way we played tonight. We have great kids that will work their butts off. And we’ll be back.”
West Ottawa nearly beat East Kentwood on Feb. 6 when the lost by just one point, 58-57.
“We struggled keeping them off the glass,” Redell said. “We did a better job with that last time. When we also got to a lot of the loose balls. Tonight, they were just quicker to the ball.”
East Kentwood senior RJ Chapman, who will play at Saginaw Valley State, had a team-high 25 points and nine rebounds. CJ Reynolds, a junior, had 18 points for the Falcons (22-2), who won the OK Red Conference title.
West Ottawa won back-to-back district titles and finished with a winning record for the first time in six years.
“We definitely improved over the season,” Campos said. “We kept getting better.”
Redell, in his fourth year, has high expectations for the program.
“We took a small step from last year,” he said. “But our goal was not just winning a district title. So it’s disappointing.”
West Ottawa (13-11) finished fourth in a dominant OK Red with a 4-6 record.
West Ottawa has a very young team. But it was the three seniors - Quentin Edwards, Tavian Garvelink and team manager Joel Cosgrove - who helped lead the team.
“It’s sad to see it,” Campos said. “Q … I grew up with him since we were like 5 or 6 years old. It’s sad. Tavian, he’s definitely stepped up as a leader. I’m thankful for him.”
Redell expressed his thanks for the trio.
“Man, I’m going to miss all three of ‘em,” he said. “Take the basketball out of the equation. … They are unbelievable kids. We’ve changed the standard with our program and those three are a huge reason for that.”
This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: West Ottawa boys basketball beat by East Kentwood in regional semis
Patriots Would Be Foolish Not To Pursue This Star Free Agent Wide Receiver originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New England Patriots have plenty of positions to address during free agency: edge, wide receiver, offensive line, linebacker, tight end.
It’s not going to be easy to check all of those boxes, though...
If the club intends on putting itself in a position to regularly contend, it will have to put together another near-flawless offseason -- which might just include investing in one of the league's budding superstars: Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce.
Let's take a look!
Alec Pierce
Position: WR
Height: 6’ 3"
Weight: 211lbs
2026 Age: 26 (May 2, 2000)
2025: 15 G, 47 REC, 1,003 REC YDS, 6 TD
It's the most obvious fit possible...
Pierce is something of a unicorn, as he has been the league leader in yards per reception across each of the last two seasons (22.3 in 2024; 21.3 in 2025), with his 47 receptions last season serving as the fewest to clear 1,000 receiving yards since Philadelphia Eagles head coach DeSean Jackson in 2010.
I'd be willing to bet those numbers improve working alongside Drake Maye.
The Patriots need to make changes at wide receiver -- Kayshon Boutte and Kyle Williams are here to stay, but the future of Stefon Diggs, DeMario Douglas and Mack Hollins all seem to be up in the air entering 2026. If you sign this guy, the focus shifts toward making tight ends and running backs a bigger part of the passing game -- which is what the organization has always thrived doing and the current roster is built to do.
It's not their only option...
New England is uniquely positioned to make a play for the two wide receivers believed to be on the trade market: the Philadelphia Eagles' A.J. Brown and the Jacksonville Jaguars' Brian Thomas Jr. If they're able to push one of those trades past the finish line, there would be no reason to invest substantial amounts of money into the free agent class' most promising wide receiver.
1. Indianapolis Colts
2. New England Patriots
3. Las Vegas Raiders
Mike Vrabel, Eliot Wolf and Ryan Cowden, in their first offseason working as a trio, orchestrated an all but flawless plan that fueled the organization's turnaround -- which primarily included the additions of free agents and rookies, with their only trades serving as a means to send players away and not bring them in.
I don't see them waiting things out and relying on their splash move to come in the form of an exchange with someone else, so expect them to make a play.
The Colts already screwed things up by applying the transition tag to quarterback Daniel Jones, freeing up their star wide receiver to test the waters and offer his services to the highest bidder. The Patriots should make sure they're exactly that.
More NFL: Patriots Offseason Preview: Everything Team Must Address In 2026
Alysa Liu's Olympic victory lap shows no signs of slowing down.
Since winning gold in women's singles at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, the 20-year-old Bay Area native has launched a whirlwind media tour, offering fans a deeper look at her music choices, mental health journey and plans for the future.
Appearing on Bravo's "Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen" on Monday, March 2, Liu revisited her now-viral free skate to Donna Summer's "MacArthur Park."
"I was recommended by someone to listen to that song," Liu said. "Then I found a 16-minute suite version, and it took it to another level."
The performance vaulted her from third place to Olympic gold and sent the 1978 disco anthem back up Billboard's Dance Digital Song Sales chart, according to Billboard. Her exhibition skate to "Stateside" by PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson also delivered a streaming boost.
Looking ahead, Liu shared the five songs she hopes to skate to next: "Fire in My Heart" by Escape From New York; "CHIHIRO" by Billie Eilish; Tchaikovsky's "Swan Lake"; "Star" by Mitski; and her top pick, "Capable of Love" by PinkPantheress.
The Oakland-raised skater has also opened up about the personal journey behind her comeback. In an interview with Today, Liu reflected on stepping away from the sport at 16 after feeling burned out.
"My mental health used to be horrible, like, absolutely horrible," she said. "And I just took a break, and I did something new."
Her advice to young athletes feeling pressure?
"If it's really such a struggle, I would say definitely take that break. Don't be scared to do that. You'll be scared of failure, (but) honestly, trying new things will definitely give you a different outcome."
The tour has included lighter moments, too.
In a video with Self magazine, Liu revealed her "Olympic crush."
"I think my Olympic crush is probably Suni Lee," Liu said. "She's so pretty and very stylized. You know what I'm saying? I like that, yeah. Oh my gosh, the one and only Hilary Knight. There's no thinking outside the box on that one."
She continued, "I have many Olympic crushes. Lauren Hernandez. I love that she's openly queer and that she is completely herself, a little bit of a nerd, just like me."
On "Today" Monday, Liu met "Harry Potter" actor Daniel Radcliffe backstage, in a moment captured by the show's social media team. The two embraced and posed for a selfie with her gold medal.
"You being you was the most joyful thing I've watched," Radcliffe told her.
Over the weekend, she also received a pop culture nod on "Saturday Night Live," where a sketch referenced "that figure skating girl with the striped hair," prompting Liu to repost the clip on Instagram and respond simply, "Period."
Back in Oakland, a new mural at Telegraph Avenue and 43rd Street in Temescal honors Liu with an image inspired by her playful "thizz" face - a nod to the Bay Area's Hyphy movement - alongside the words "Shoutout Oakland," echoing her post-victory remarks.
The Asian-led art collective Illuminairies funded the mural themselves.
"The Warriors left, the A's left, but it's kind of like we have someone to look up to and somebody that our kids can aspire to be," Steve Ha of Illuminairies told NBC Bay Area. "And you know, follow your dreams, and I think it's just dope, man."
City officials are also planning a community-wide celebration, Mayor Barbara Lee announced, calling Liu "Oakland's hometown hero." Fentons Creamery has offered her "ice cream for life."
As she makes stops in New York and beyond, Liu has said she plans to compete at the upcoming ISU World Figure Skating Championships in Prague.
When asked whether she sees herself competing at the 2030 Winter Games in the French Alps, her answer was succinct.
"Oh yeah," Liu said.
This article originally published at After winning gold, Alysa Liu reveals dream skate playlist and ‘Olympic crush'.
The regular season is over for the University at Albany men's basketball team. From here on out, it's one-and-done.
UAlbany's regular season ended Tuesday with a 69-56 loss to Vermont at Patrick Gymnasium in Burlington, Vt. The Great Danes finished the regular season with an 11-20 overall record and a 7-9 mark in America East play.
The America East playoffs start Saturday, with UAlbany earning the No. 5 seed and a 1 p.m. road game against No. 4 UMass Lowell. The River Hawks swept UAlbany during the regular season, winning 83-71 in Lowell, Mass. on Jan. 3 and 89-79 in Albany on Feb. 7.
"We have to want to walk in there and prove that we can be the tougher team," Great Danes coach Dwayne Killings said in a video provided by UAlbany Athletics. "That's the next test for us. If we can get that test right, we'll be fortunate to win the game, but it will not be easy."
UAlbany went into Tuesday with the possibility of being either the No. 5 seed and facing UMass Lowell or dropping to the No. 6 seed and facing NJIT. The result at Patrick Gymnasium was rendered irrelevant in terms of seeding thanks to earlier results around the league Tuesday.
UMBC's 91-52 win over NJIT locked Vermont into the No. 2 seed, while UAlbany was assured of the No. 5 seed when UMass Lowell beat Maine 67-56.
The Great Danes started Tuesday night going toe-to-toe with a Vermont (20-11, 12-4) team that they'd beaten earlier this season in Albany. But, with the game tied 26-26, UAlbany was held scoreless over the final 4:25 of the first half as Vermont forged a 31-26 halftime lead.
The Catamounts pushed the lead to 11 in the second half before a rally got the Great Danes within 46-44 after a Ma'Kye Taylor dunk with 8:24 to play. But, Vermont responded with an 11-0 run following a timeout by coach John Becker, and the Great Danes were unable to answer.
"I thought we played hard. We were prepared," Killings said. "I thought they were better than us today."
Amir Lindsey finished with a game-high 25 points and added five assists for UAlbany. Zacharie Matulu and Isaac Abidde added 10 points apiece, and Okechukwu Okeke chipped in seven points and 11 rebounds, but committed seven turnovers as the subject of constant double-teams whenever he got the ball in the post.
Gus Yalden scored 19 points and TJ Long scored 13 for Vermont.
UAlbany played once again without Jaden Kempson (hip), Abdoulaye Fall (knee), Nas Muhammad (knee), Yaya Keita (knee), and Ife West-Ingram (unspecified medical issue). The Great Danes used only seven players for most of the game until a brief cameo from Bautista Giralt in the final seconds.
"If we're fortunate enough to get another body (for the playoffs), I think we'll make this journey a little bit easier," Killings said. "Playing with seven guys is tough, but we're walking in here ready for us. … I think the lesson for us right now is it's not going to be as easy as we'd like it to be."
This article originally published at UAlbany men's basketball drops regular-season finale at Vermont.
The final four teams remain in the hunt for an ECAC women's hockey title. They'll face off this weekend at the 1980 Herb Brooks Arena in Lake Placid, New York, with an ECAC title and automatic berth to the NCAA national championships on the line.
On Friday night, Cornell and Yale will face off for the first semifinal followed by Princeton taking on Quinnipiac.
The winners of each semifinal will play for the ECAC title March 7 at 5pm.
Second Team ECAC All-Stars Jordan Ray and Carina DiAntonio are both set to enter the PWHL Draft this year and were two of the top 15 scorers in the nation. They powered Yale's offense this season and will need to continue in the ECAC's championship weekend. DiAntonio leads the Bulldogs with 24 goals, while Ray continues to climb the program assists ladder. On the back end, ECAC All-Rookie and First Team All-Star defender Molly Boyle had a spectacular campaign. Yale has also seen solid goaltender whether it's Samson Frey or Anna Philips between the pipes.
Cornell didn't have a single player in the top 75 in scoring in the nation. Seniors Georgia Schiff and Avi Adam tied for the team lead with 28 points each. What Cornell does have is a stellar two-way style headlined by the aforementioned forwards as well as Karel Prefontaine and McKenna Van Gelder up front. Their blueline is solid with Piper Grober, Grace Dwyer, Rose Dwyer, and Alyssa Regalado forming a formidable presence, along with Annelies Bergmann in net.
Princeton, paced by senior forward Issy Wunder will looked for a wunder-ful finish to their 2025-26 season. Wunder is one of the top prospect heading into the 2026 PWHL Draft and her 27 goals and 43 points in 32 points this season are nothing to overlook. Alongside Mackenzie Alexander and Jane Kuehl, as well as Emerson O'Leary and Riley Sorokan, the Tigers have a formidable scoring core. The return of Uma Corniea in net after she missed all of 2024-25 has been a difference maker for Princeton. Can she be the difference in the ECAC semifinals?
No player in the NCAA has scored at the pace of Kahlen Lamarche this season. Her 42 goals top all players nationally and she's continued to score in important moments for the Bobcats this season. Quinnipiac however, is no one trick pony as Emerson Jarvis is another notable threat. They also have one of the top netminders in the nation in Felicia Frank who was named the ECAC Goaltender of the Year, and a blueline filled with two-way contributors including Zoe Uens, Ainsley D'Ottavio, and Makayla Watson.
MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Khamari McGriff scored 18 points and Nate Johnson scored 16 points and Kansas State delivered another blow to West Virginia's NCAA Tournament hopes holding off the Mountaineers 65-63 on Tuesday night.
Reserve Chance Moore scored 18 points, Brenen Lorient scored 14 points, reserve DJ Thomas 12 and Honor Huff 11 for West Virginia.
It was the first win of the season for the Wildcats in which they didn't score 81-or-more points.
PJ Haggerty, the nation’s third-leading scorer, was unexpectedly scratched from the Wildcats' lineup posted an hour-and-a-half before the 7 p.m. CT tip-off. Haggerty wasn't listed on the team’s initial availability report released Monday.
Kansas State said in a release that Haggerty sustained an injury in practice in recent days. He’s listed day-to-day ahead of Saturday’s matchup at Kansas. Haggerty, the Wildcats’ starting point guard, entered Tuesday night second in the Big 12 in scoring, averaging 23.3 points per game.
Despite his absence Kansas State (12-18, 3-14) used a 21-0 run to take a 48-31 lead with 10:53 remaining, its longest scoring run of the season.
But the Wildcats proceeded to leave the door open failing to score a field goal in the final 3:48. McGriff made two free throws for a 57-39 lead with a 7:29 left.
West Virginia (17-13, 8-9) then outscored the Wildcats 19-1 down the stretch and got to with 61-58 with 48 seconds left before McGriff and Johnson each made foul shots to secure the win.
West Virginia: Wraps up the regular season on Friday against UCF.
Kansas State: Ends the regular season on the road against 14th-ranked state rival Kansas on Saturday.
___
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MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Anthony Edwards scored 41 points as the Minnesota Timberwolves overcame a sluggish first half to beat the Memphis Grizzlies 117-110 on Tuesday night.
The Timberwolves, who moved into fourth in the Western Conference over the weekend, have won four in a row and seven of eight. Memphis saw its two-game winning streak end.
Julius Randle added 23 points and 11 rebounds for the Wolves and Ayo Dosunmu contributed 14 points off the bench.
Jaylen Wells led Memphis with 19 points and Cedric Coward added 15. Memphis went on a 12-2 run to cut it to four points in the final minute but couldn't complete the rally.
Edwards, fresh off being named Western Conference Player of the Week, took over in the fourth quarter. He scored 13 points, including three 3-pointers, as the Wolves pulled away. It was his ninth 40-point game of the season, and fans serenaded him with “MVP!” chants in the final minute.
Minnesota trailed by 11 in the first half and shot 3 of 16 from deep before halftime. Edwards had all three of the Wolves' 3-pointers.
Wells had 15 first-half points to send Memphis into halftime with a 62-57 lead.
Minnesota picked up its defensive intensity and finally drew even in the third quarter at 72-all. Edwards converted a layup to put the Wolves on top 74-72, and Minnesota never trailed again.
Kyle Anderson made his return to Minnesota, coming off the bench one day after the Wolves brought him back following his release by Memphis. Anderson previously played for Minnesota in the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons. He had two points in 13 minutes.
The Wolves out-rebounded the smaller Grizzlies 51-33.
Grizzlies: Host Portland on Wednesday.
Timberwolves: Host Toronto on Thursday.
___
AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA
The Brazilian National Team will play another friendly this Wednesday (4), this time against Venezuela. The match will take place at the Mexican Federation Training Center in Toluca at 6:30 PM (Brasília time). The team's last training session was held on the afternoon of this Tuesday (3), and before leading the activity, coach Arthur Elias shared his expectations for the match.
“Venezuela is a team that has been aggressive in its marking, has players with international experience and who play for major clubs. Like all national teams, they are also evolving. The advantage of having a Brazilian coach on the other side is always knowing the players individually a bit better. On a collective level, everyone studies everyone. We need to focus on what the game is,” he said.
“Brazil and Venezuela was a very tough match in the Copa América, especially due to the altitude, since the Venezuelans were already adapted. Here (in Toluca) both teams are on the same level regarding this adaptation. But we also have to take advantage, focus not only on the opponent, but on the growth of the Brazilian National Team, give opportunities to the players, and maintain consistency throughout the entire game,” he added.
Arthur Elias during the Brazilian National Team's training this TuesdayCredits: Lívia Villas Boas/Staff Images/CBF
Defender Lauren, silver medalist at the 2024 Olympics, had not worn the Yellow Jersey for some time. Called up for this first FIFA Date of 2026, she stated that representing the Brazilian National Team is always an honor.
“It's always very good to be here. It's a joy, a huge honor to wear the Brazil shirt and it always will be. So I am very happy to be here again,” she said.
Lauren during the Brazilian National Team's training this TuesdayCredits: Lívia Villas Boas/Staff Images/CBF
Regarding the upcoming match against Venezuela, the Atlético de Madrid player emphasized that, for Brazil, all matches are high-level. Therefore, it is important for the team to stay alert to avoid possible mistakes.
“In the National Team, all matches are very tough and competitive, so of course you have to stay focused for the 90, 100 minutes, or however long the game lasts. Every gap you give the opponent is a chance for them to score. We have to be very attentive to all situations and every moment of the game.”
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.
It’s another night here at BCB After Dark: the grooviest nightspot for night owls, early risers, new parents and Cubs fans abroad. You know you’re always welcome here. Come on in and spend some time with us. There’s no cover charge. The hostess can seat you now. Bring your own beverage.
BCB After Dark is the place for you to talk baseball, music, movies, or anything else you need to get off your chest, as long as it is within the rules of the site. The late-nighters are encouraged to get the party started, but everyone else is invited to join in as you wake up the next morning and into the afternoon.
Last night I asked for your opinion about the World Baseball Classic. Most of you were reasonably positive about it as 38 percent of you said you “Like it” and 26 percent of you said that you “Love it.” Only six percent of you want to see it discontinued.
On Tuesday night/Wednesday morning, I don’t normally do any movie stuff. But I always have time for jazz, so you’re free to skip that now.
Tonight we have pianist Jacky Terrasson playing the Michel Legrand music from maybe my favorite movie musical of all time, “Les parapluies de Cherbourg” (The Umbrellas of Cherbourg). This is a much more upbeat version of the music than the more melancholic take that’s in the film.
Joining Terrasson is Kenny Davis on bass and Alvester Garnett on drums. This performance is from 2024.
Welcome back to everyone who skips all that jazz.
Tonight’s question is simple. Where are the Cubs going to get their power? Who is the biggest home run threat on the team?
So who is going to lead the team in home runs? Every year I ask this question and I don’t think we’ve ever predicted right. Since 2020, the Cubs’ team home run leader has been a surprise more often than not:
2020: Ian Happ—12
2021: Patrick Wisdom—28
2022: Patrick Wisdom—25
2023: Cody Bellinger and Christopher Morel—26
2024: Ian Happ—25
2025: Michael Busch—34
I don’t think any of those winners were expected at the start of the season. Wisdom came out of nowhere twice. I suppose Busch was a reasonable pick this time last year, but was he really favored over Kyle Tucker or Seiya Suzuki? Bellinger doesn’t look unreasonable in retrospect, but he was coming off getting non-tendered by the Dodgers. On top of that, he only tied with Christopher Morel, who was also a shock winner of the Cubs HR title.
So with the understanding that we’re all likely to be wrong, who will hit the most home runs for the Cubs in 2026?
I hope I don’t have to explain who any of these people are.
Thank you for stopping by tonight. We were glad to host you. Please get home safely. Tell us if you need us to get a ride for you. Recycle any cans and bottles. Tip your waitstaff. And join us again tomorrow for more BCB After Dark.
Things were a bit sleepy at Kimrey Family Stadium on Tuesday night. When you're staring at five games in six days, that's a good thing.
The No. 12 Oklahoma baseball team, which knocked off Dallas Baptist, 2-0, in a one-off, midweek game finds themselves in such a scenario this week. One down, one to go now as Oklahoma (11-2) next prepares for a four-game set with Santa Clara from Thursday to Sunday.
Both the Sooners' runs came off the bat of first baseman Deiten LaChance. He hit an RBI single in the third inning to center field that scored Kyle Branch. Then in the eighth inning, his flyball to center plated Dasan Harris. Oklahoma had managed just one base-runner over the fourth, fifth and sixth innings before threatening in the seventh after the first two batters reached. A wild pitch with two outs sent them second and third base, but Jason Walk struck out to end the inning.
Harris then started the eighth with a single, too, ultimately putting himself into position to give OU's pitchers some breathing room. Not that they needed it.
Coach Skip Johnson used eight different pitchers against the Patriots. Combined, they gave up just two hits, two walks and hit two batters. They also struck out 11 while allowing just one DBU runner to reach third base. Jackson Cleveland pitched the ninth and allowed Dallas Baptist to bring the potential winning run to the plate, but he got Adam Berghul swinging to end the game.
No Sooners player had more than one hit, though Camden Johnson reached twice with a single and a walk. Jaxon Willits and Drew Dickerson each knocked a double.
OU's series against the Broncos begins Thursday night at 6:30 p.m.
This article originally appeared on Sooners Wire: No. 13 Oklahoma baseball beats Dallas Baptist
Spring training has brought a renewed sense of optimism for the Baltimore Orioles, and much of that outlook centers around the health and performance of two key players. Pitcher Kyle Bradish and catcher Adley Rutschman are both looking to reestablish themselves after injury setbacks, and their success could define Baltimore’s ceiling this season.
Bradish has quietly been one of the most effective pitchers in the American League when healthy. His breakout came in 2023, when he posted a 2.83 ERA across 30 starts with 168 strikeouts, finishing fourth in AL Cy Young Award voting.
However, injuries have significantly limited him since then. Over the past two seasons, Bradish has made just 14 total starts after undergoing Tommy John surgery on his right elbow, creating uncertainty about how much he can contribute moving forward.
At the same time, Rutschman is trying to bounce back from a difficult 2025 season. Injuries, including multiple oblique strains, disrupted his rhythm and limited him to just 90 games. He finished with a .220 batting average, a .307 on‑base percentage and a .673 OPS, along with nine home runs and 29 RBIs. For a player with his pedigree, those numbers represented a clear step back.
That is why Bradish’s recent comments about his teammate stand out as both encouraging and important.
“When Rutsch is on, it makes this lineup even better. So, big bounce‑back year for him. He's looking really good right now,” Bradish said when discussing Rutschman’s spring training performance.
Kyle Bradish, moments after Adley Rutschman homered: "When Rutsch is on, it makes this lineup even better. So, big bounce-back year for him. He's looking really good right now."
— Andy Kostka (@afkostka) February 28, 2026
Rutschman’s track record suggests he is more than capable of responding. A former No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft, he has already established himself as one of the top catchers in the game, earning two All‑Star selections and a Silver Slugger award early in his career. When he is producing, he not only anchors the lineup but also elevates the entire offense.
For Baltimore, the stakes are high. The organization made several moves this offseason to strengthen the roster, but its long‑term success still depends heavily on its young core. Bradish, who was drafted in the fourth round in 2018 and debuted in 2022, is entering his fifth MLB season and needs to stay on the field to stabilize the rotation. Rutschman, meanwhile, remains one of the team’s most important hitters and leaders behind the plate.
If both players can stay healthy and return to form, the Orioles could take another significant step forward. Their combination of pitching and offensive leadership gives Baltimore a higher ceiling than most teams in the league, making this season a pivotal one for the franchise.
Spring training represents a fresh start for many players, but few have more at stake this year than Royce Lewis. As he enters his fifth MLB season with the Minnesota Twins, Lewis is focused on something that has eluded him throughout much of his young career: consistency and durability.
The former No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 MLB Draft has flashed elite talent when healthy, but injuries have defined his path so far. Lewis has battled through two ACL tears, multiple hamstring strains, a quadriceps injury and other lower‑body issues that have prevented him from finding long‑term rhythm at the major league level. He has played more than 100 games just once in his career, which came in 2025.
Even that season, while important for availability, showed some regression at the plate. Lewis posted a .237 batting average, .283 on‑base percentage and .671 OPS with 13 home runs and 52 RBIs. The power that once made him one of baseball’s most exciting young hitters was not as consistent, raising questions about his long‑term trajectory. That context makes his mindset entering 2026 especially significant.
When asked about his goals for the upcoming season on an MLB Network appearance, Lewis responded, “I want to see myself have 700 plate appearances, make great defensive plays, and be reliable over there for our pitching staff, and run the bases a little bit more and have some fun doing that. So I can't put a number on it, but I want to steal and have some fun out there like I did when I was young.”
"I want to see myself have 700 plate appearances, make great defensive plays, and be reliable over there for our pitching staff."
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) March 2, 2026
Royce Lewis shares his goals for 2026 and more with @CY24_7 at @Twins camp.
📺 30 Clubs, 30 Camps pic.twitter.com/dglBCDoNoA
It is a simple plan, but an ambitious one given his history. Reaching 700 plate appearances would require Lewis to stay healthy for essentially the entire season, something he has yet to accomplish. Still, the emphasis on defense, baserunning and reliability suggests a more complete approach rather than focusing solely on power numbers.
This spring is also important because of changes within the organization. Under new manager Derek Shelton and an updated coaching staff, Lewis has an opportunity to redefine his role and prove he can be a cornerstone player moving forward.
For the Twins, that potential matters. When Lewis is at his best, he brings athleticism, versatility and impact to both sides of the ball. But until he can stay on the field consistently, those flashes will remain just that, flashes.
If his plan comes together, however, 2026 could finally be the season where Lewis delivers on the promise that made him the top pick in his draft class and a key piece of Minnesota’s future.
CHICAGO (AP) — Jared McCain scored 20 points, Isaiah Joe added 19 and the Oklahoma City Thunder — playing without star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander — beat the Chicago Bulls 116-108 on Tuesday night.
The defending NBA champion Thunder held out Gilgeous-Alexander to manage an abdominal strain that sidelined him for most of last month. But even without the reigning MVP, they had more than enough to win for the sixth time in seven games. They lead the Western Conference at 48-15.
McCain made four 3-pointers. Aaron Wiggins scored 18 points. Jaylin Williams had 17 points and 16 rebounds. Cason Wallace had 17 points, and Chet Holmgren added 12 points and 11 rebounds.
Collin Sexton scored 20 points for Chicago, including a 3 in the closing minute that cut it to 112-106. But the Bulls got back to losing after stopping an 11-game skid with a lopsided win over Milwaukee on Sunday.
Guerschon Yabusele had a season-high 18 points and 12 rebounds for his third double-double in 11 games since a trade-deadline deal with New York. The 6-foot-8, 283-pound Frenchman made four 3-pointers.
Josh Giddey just missed his ninth triple-double and second in two games, with 14 points, nine rebounds and nine assists. Matas Buzelis scored 11 points before limping to the locker room near the end of the third quarter. He rolled his right ankle when he stepped on Williams’ foot and did not return to the game.
The Thunder trailed 60-59 early in the third when Holmgren dunked to start a 14-3 run. They outscored Chicago 8-2 over the final three minutes of the quarter, including a 3 by McCain, to take an 87-76 lead to the fourth.
Thunder: At New York on Wednesday night.
Bulls: At Phoenix on Thursday night. ___
AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA
Expectations are nothing new for Elly De La Cruz, but this spring feels especially important as the Cincinnati Reds prepare for a season with real playoff aspirations. After reaching the postseason last year, Cincinnati is looking to take another step forward, and much of that hinges on the continued development of its dynamic young star.
De La Cruz has already established himself as one of the most electrifying players in baseball. A two‑time All‑Star with elite speed, power and defensive ability, he impacts the game in nearly every way possible. However, his 2025 season was not without challenges. Playing through a left quad injury, he finished with a .264 batting average, a .336 on‑base percentage and a .777 OPS, along with 22 home runs and 86 RBIs across 162 games.
Now healthy, De La Cruz enters spring training with a chance to reset and elevate his game even further. That makes his role even more critical for a Reds team aiming for back‑to‑back playoff appearances in a competitive National League.
Earlier this week, manager Terry Francona offered a telling comparison while discussing his young star on a Foul Territory appearance. Francona said, “Somebody asked me the other day, how about managing Jose Ramirez? You don't manage him. You just wind him up and get out of his way. And that's a good thing. Other players follow him and Elly [De La Cruz] is the same here where guys watch him.”
Terry Francona says Elly De La Cruz's motor reminds him of José Ramírez. 😤 pic.twitter.com/WT2DUgewbz
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) February 24, 2026
It is high praise, especially considering Francona’s history with Jose Ramirez. During his time managing the Cleveland organization, Francona spent more than a decade alongside Ramirez, who developed into the face of the franchise and a seven‑time All‑Star. Known for his consistency, leadership and all‑around production, Ramirez set the standard for what a cornerstone player looks like.
Comparing De La Cruz to that caliber of player speaks volumes. It suggests not only superstar potential, but also the kind of presence that can influence an entire clubhouse.
That leadership will be especially important after De La Cruz turned down a contract extension from Cincinnati this offseason, signaling confidence in his future value and long‑term ceiling. With that decision comes added pressure, but also opportunity.
If De La Cruz can take another step forward, particularly in maintaining consistency at the plate, he has the tools to elevate both his individual profile and the Reds’ postseason chances.
For Cincinnati, the equation is simple. When De La Cruz is playing at his best, the team becomes significantly more dangerous. And if Francona’s comparison proves accurate, the Reds may already have their version of a franchise‑defining player leading the way.
For Jeremy “The Jaguar” Miado, fighting was never a choice. It was the only way out.
The Filipino has built a reputation as one of the most exciting knockout artists in ONE Championship’s strawweight MMA division. He’s a cerebral striker whose sharp hands have produced some of the promotion’s most electrifying highlight-reel moments.
But the man behind those finishes carries a weight most opponents could never imagine. Long before he entertained global audiences, Miado was simply trying to survive.
Ahead of his pivotal flyweight MMA showdown with Willie “White Lion” van Rooyen at ONE Fight Night 41 on Prime Video, live in U.S. primetime from Bangkok’s Lumpinee Stadium on Friday, March 13, Miado reflected on the unlikely road that brought him to this point.
The 33-year-old veteran recalled:
“I’ve been working hard labor since I was a kid. I grew up as a farmer, and it was really hard to make ends meet. I had a lot of odd jobs just to make money. I even worked at a funeral home one time during my high school days.
“To make it to college, I had to become a working student. Through hard work, I got my degree in criminology, but I didn’t pursue it. I saw my future in MMA, and I just gave it my full attention.”
While mixed martial arts was always the destination, the road there took an unexpected detour.
Miado grew up in a country where boxing isn’t just a sport. It’s a religion, immortalized by Manny Pacquiao, the only eight-division World Champion in history.
MMA was still blossoming in the provinces back then, while boxing was everywhere — fiestas, street bouts, and sanctioned cards. Miado fought on all of them, driven by necessity and undeniable natural gifts. His length, timing, and knockout power belied his wiry frame.
A 32-2 amateur record gave “The Jaguar” every reason to turn professional. His sights, however, were always set on the all-encompassing sport.
Miado shared:
“I started in an MMA gym with the intention of fighting in MMA. It’s just that getting boxing matches was a lot easier than getting MMA fights back then, especially in the province I was in. I just accepted the opportunities that were given and kept fighting.
“That’s why I have some of the sharpest and most powerful hands. I guess my timing and reflexes [come from there] as well. I see angles that some fighters don’t see.”
For Miado, martial arts was never purely about competition. It was salvation, a way to rewrite a story that had been written against him from the start.
Now with a family of his own, that purpose runs even deeper. Everything he endures is for the son watching at home.
Miado said:
“I grew up in poverty, and I experienced how hard it is. From being a child to an adult, I’ve had a rough life. So, I don’t want my kid to experience the same thing. But thank God I made it to ONE Championship.”
In the early years, the dynamite in Jeremy Miado’s fists was enough. Six of his seven ONE Championship victories ended by ferocious knockouts.
Stoppages over Miao Li Tao, Lito “Thunder Kid” Adiwang, and “Mini T” Danial Williams had him knocking on the door of a ONE Strawweight MMA World Title shot.
But the division soon caught up. Opponents found their answer by taking the fight to the ground, stripping him of his greatest asset. Submission losses to grappling specialists Mansur Malachiev and Keito “Pocket Monk” Yamakita triggered a four-bout slide that forced him to evolve or be left behind.
“The Jaguar” explained:
“My opponents already know my strengths in striking, so they really try to take me to the ground. As soon as they taste my power, they go for my legs or take me down from the clinch.
“I knew I had to adjust. I had to evolve because everyone would just dominate me in grappling if I stayed the same. I worked really hard to address my issues and made it a focus to find a way to be comfortable in compromising positions.”
Admittedly, grappling felt foreign at first. Over time, though, peeling back the layers of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu revealed its beauty to the natural striker.
The positional intricacies and the geometry of submissions clicked in ways he hadn’t anticipated. Miado knows there is still ground to cover, but the foundation is there, and it has only made his striking more dangerous.
Against Willie van Rooyen on March 13, he intends to prove just how far that evolution has come.
“The Jaguar” said:
“I started slow at first. The focus initially was just to get out of positions and find the best routes to get back on the feet.
“But eventually, I got comfortable working on attacks as well. I began working on offense. And once I learned how these submissions work, my defense actually got better.”
It’s Tuesday, March 3, 2026, and we’re tracking today’s most consequential startup and tech funding moves. The latest rounds spotlight a decisive pivot toward scalable infrastructure for AI systems, digital governance, and enterprise automation. From optical interconnects and T-cell engagers […]
The post Top Startup and Tech Funding News – March 3, 2025 first appeared on Tech Startups.
Security teams rarely fear the alarms that go off. The real worry is the alert that never comes. That blind spot is what Fig Security wants to fix. The New York and Tel Aviv–based security startup has emerged from stealth […]
The post Fig Security emerges from stealth with $38M to fix the silent failures breaking enterprise SecOps first appeared on Tech Startups.
JetStream has entered the AI governance race with fresh capital and a familiar cast of cybersecurity veterans. The San Francisco AI startup announced a $34 million seed round led by Redpoint Ventures, with backing from CrowdStrike’s Falcon Fund and a […]
The post JetStream raises $34M seed to bring real-time governance and visibility to enterprise AI first appeared on Tech Startups.
A wave of outages swept across the United Arab Emirates this week after drone strikes damaged key Amazon Web Services infrastructure, knocking major apps, banks, and fintech platforms offline and exposing how tightly the region’s digital economy is tied to […]
The post Drone strikes hit Amazon’s AWS data centers in UAE, trigger widespread app and banking outages first appeared on Tech Startups.
A quiet but critical battle is unfolding inside the data centers, fueling the AI boom. The latest signal came Tuesday, when Ayar Labs, a silicon photonics startup backed by Nvidia and AMD, announced it had raised $500 million in a […]
The post Nvidia-backed Ayar Labs raises $500M to speed AI chips with light-based interconnects first appeared on Tech Startups.
It’s Tuesday, March 3, 2026, and here are the top tech stories making waves today — from AI and startups to regulation and Big Tech. AI’s infrastructure race is accelerating, and today’s headlines show just how high the stakes have become. […]
The post Top Tech News Today, March 3, 2026 first appeared on Tech Startups.
San Francisco, CA, United States, 3rd March 2026, CyberNewswire
The post Archipelo and Checkmarx Announce Partnership Connecting AppSec Detection with DevSPM first appeared on Tech Startups.
Sam Altman is hitting the brakes on OpenAI’s latest Pentagon deal. In a candid post Monday, the OpenAI CEO said the company “shouldn’t have rushed” its recent agreement with the U.S. Department of Defense, acknowledging the rollout sparked concerns about surveillance […]
The post Sam Altman walks back OpenAI–Pentagon deal amid surveillance backlash, says ‘shouldn’t have rushed’ first appeared on Tech Startups.
Organicpilot automates SEO content growth for content teams. It analyzes your domain, builds keyword clusters and a 30-day editorial calendar, generates SEO-optimized articles with AI, and publishes directly to platforms like WordPress and Webflow. Connect your CMS once, set tone and briefs, and ship consistent content without switching tools. Stay focused while Organicpilot turns your strategy into a daily publishing cadence that drives organic traffic.
Bangon Falls is a stunning multi-tiered waterfall system located in Barangay San Andres, near Catbalogan City on Samar Island, which is part of the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. Surrounded by a lush, vibrant landscape, Bangon Falls is a major attraction for eco-tourism enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking to explore the rich natural beauty of Samar. Known for its cascading water, crystal-clear pools, and breathtaking jungle scenery, the falls provide a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
The falls are not only an essential eco-tourism attraction but also serve as a vital water source for the nearby community. Bangon Falls is often paired with nearby natural attractions, such as Tarangban Falls, creating a unique opportunity for visitors to enjoy a complete outdoor experience filled with waterfalls, hiking trails, and immersive natural landscapes.
Why Visit Bangon Falls
Bangon Falls offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience nature’s beauty in its most untouched form. The waterfall cascades down several tiers, forming deep pools along the way, which are surrounded by lush forest and picturesque mountain views. The inviting, cool waters make it an ideal place to take a refreshing dip after a moderate hike to the falls. Whether it’s the peaceful sound of the flowing water or the visual delight of nature’s design, Bangon Falls offers visitors an incredible natural setting for relaxation and contemplation.
For those who love to experience nature up close, reaching Bangon Falls involves an exciting and somewhat challenging hike. The trail to the falls usually takes 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the pace of the hiker, and leads through village pathways and dense jungle terrain. While the hike is moderately difficult, it is rewarding, offering views of the region’s diverse ecosystem, dense foliage, and the calming sounds of nature along the way. Since the trail lacks clear wayfinding signs, hiring a local guide is highly recommended to ensure safety and efficient navigation through the trail.
As visitors trek through rocky riverbeds, streams, and dense foliage, the hike itself becomes a part of the adventure, adding to the experience of reaching the magnificent waterfall. The natural landscape encountered along the way makes this journey as exciting as the final destination.
At the highest section of Bangon Falls, visitors will find a 30-meter diameter plunge pool that is perfect for swimming. This deep basin invites visitors to take a relaxing swim and enjoy the cool waters after the hike. Adventurous travelers can also enjoy activities such as rope swings and wading through the refreshing water, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and fun activities. The natural beauty of the falls combined with these activities makes Bangon Falls a perfect destination for those seeking an exciting yet peaceful experience.
Best Time to Visit
Bangon Falls can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is shortly after rainfall when the water flow is most powerful, offering a dramatic and stunning experience. The ideal time to visit is in the late afternoon, when the softer sunlight enhances the beauty of the waterfall, creating a perfect atmosphere for photography. However, visitors should avoid the rainiest periods, as the trail can become slippery, making the hike more challenging and potentially unsafe. Visitors should always check weather conditions before embarking on their trip to ensure safety during the hike.
Things to Do at Bangon Falls
For those seeking an eco-tourism experience, hiking to Bangon Falls provides an immersive way to explore the natural landscape of Samar. The trail offers great opportunities for birdwatching and appreciating the region’s unique flora and fauna. Along the way, visitors can observe the lush green vegetation, towering trees, and vibrant wildlife that are native to the area, enhancing the overall experience of visiting this natural wonder.
The inviting waters of Bangon Falls’ plunge pool provide the perfect setting for visitors to relax and enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings. Whether it’s swimming in the cool waters or just soaking in the serene environment, Bangon Falls offers a tranquil experience for those who wish to unwind.
Bangon Falls is a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts, thanks to its stunning landscapes and breathtaking views. The cascading waterfalls, verdant jungle backdrop, and crystal-clear pools make for the perfect photographic compositions. Whether taking snapshots for personal memories or creating beautiful scenery shots, Bangon Falls provides ample opportunities for capturing nature at its finest.
In addition to Bangon Falls, there are several other natural sites around Catbalogan City that visitors can explore. Other waterfalls, caves, and eco-tourism spots in the area provide additional attractions for visitors who want to make the most of their time in Samar. This proximity to other natural wonders makes Bangon Falls an ideal stop for those interested in exploring Samar’s diverse outdoor landscape.
Visitor Tips
How to Get There
Bangon Falls is located approximately 39 kilometers north of Calbayog City, in Barangay Tinaplacan. Visitors can reach the trailhead by motorcycle (habal-habal) or local transport from Calbayog, followed by a scenic walk through the forest toward the waterfall.
Why Bangon Falls is Worth Visiting
Bangon Falls is a hidden gem in Samar that offers a combination of adventure, scenic beauty, and eco-tourism experiences. Its multi-tiered cascades and lush natural environment make it the perfect destination for those seeking authentic eco-tourism experiences away from crowded mainstream attractions. With its beautiful landscapes and refreshing waters, Bangon Falls provides the perfect setting for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to connect with the environment in a serene and peaceful way.
The post Bangon Falls: The Breathtaking Waterfall in Samar That’s Setting Eco-Tourism on Fire in Philippines! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
The Indonesian government is ramping up its regulations on short-term rental services such as Airbnb, a move that will impact millions of travellers and property owners across Southeast Asia’s largest economy. The new regulations are set to tighten the framework governing online travel agencies (OTAs) and short-term rental platforms, mandating that all properties listed must now possess valid business licenses. With this change, Indonesia aims to ensure the tourism sector continues its growth while protecting both local economies and fair competition within the country’s thriving tourism industry.
With Bali as one of the key battlegrounds for these changes, these regulations follow concerns from local governments about lost tax revenue due to unregulated rentals. This policy shift also comes as Indonesia looks to capitalize on the rapidly growing tourism sector and its forecasted influx of visitors in 2026.
Indonesia, the largest economy in Southeast Asia, is on the cusp of achieving another record in its tourism industry. In 2025, the country welcomed 15.39 million foreign visitors, surpassing its target of 14-15 million. The government’s new initiative to tighten oversight of short-term rentals is part of a broader effort to balance the country’s thriving tourism market and curb concerns over tax evasion and unfair business practices.
In an effort to secure fairness in the tourism sector, the government has set a deadline of March 31, 2026, by which all short-term rental providers on platforms such as Airbnb must be fully licensed. The policy is designed to create a more transparent environment for businesses, ensuring that operators comply with regulations, contribute to the local economy, and operate on a level playing field.
The new regulations come in the wake of growing concerns in Bali, one of Indonesia’s most popular tourist destinations. The island’s government had previously proposed halting all short-term rentals due to the perceived loss of local tax revenue. Bali, known for its tourism-driven economy, has seen an explosion of properties listed on global short-term rental platforms, creating a booming market that many local businesses believe bypasses standard tax procedures.
Bali’s Governor has expressed concerns over the large volume of unlicensed accommodations operating on Airbnb and similar platforms, which had been impacting the island’s tax collections. The newly introduced regulations aim to address these concerns while maintaining Bali’s status as a premier travel destination, ensuring it remains competitive in the global tourism industry.
As the world emerges from the pandemic, Indonesia is set to welcome up to 17 million foreign visitors in 2026, representing an 11% increase year-on-year. This influx is part of the country’s vision to establish itself as a top destination for international travellers. The country has consistently attracted visitors from around the world, thanks to its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and world-class beaches.
For international tourists, this new regulatory framework may bring mixed feelings. While the changes promise a more structured and secure system for those looking to rent private properties during their stays, the new business license requirement may result in higher prices for short-term rentals. However, for those wishing to experience Bali, Jakarta, or Yogyakarta in more traditional settings, these regulations will encourage a safer and more predictable accommodation experience.
With Indonesia experiencing such a robust growth trajectory in the tourism sector, the government’s new regulations are not only aimed at regulating property owners but also designed to enhance the overall tourist experience. By ensuring that short-term rentals are fully licensed and comply with local tax codes, the government is working to ensure the quality of accommodations remains high. International visitors can rest assured that their money is going toward legitimate services that contribute to the local economy.
For visitors planning to travel to Indonesia, particularly Bali, Jakarta, or Lombok, it’s essential to stay informed about the regulations surrounding Airbnb-style rentals. Travellers will need to book only those properties that have the required permits to avoid any disruptions during their stay. Tourists should ensure that their rental hosts are compliant with local rules to help support the long-term sustainability of the country’s tourism sector.
Property owners in Indonesia, especially those renting through platforms like Airbnb, will need to quickly adjust to these new requirements. The move to enforce proper licensing will likely prompt many smaller, unregistered operators to either comply with the regulations or exit the market. For tourism businesses, the need for business licenses could also present new opportunities for official partnerships with tourism authorities, local municipalities, and official travel agencies.
For those already licensed and compliant, this new policy will ensure that they maintain a competitive edge by preventing unlicensed operators from offering subpar services without accountability. The government’s support of legitimate tourism providers will create a more trustworthy ecosystem for both property owners and tourists.
With the regulations set to take effect in March 2026, Indonesia’s efforts to regulate short-term rentals are expected to help the tourism sector grow while minimizing challenges such as tax evasion, unfair competition, and property mismanagement. This framework offers both tourism providers and tourists clearer, more reliable rules, enabling Indonesia to position itself as a sustainable, globally competitive destination.
As Bali and other Indonesian islands prepare for more international arrivals, these new regulations should give tourists greater confidence that their accommodation experiences will meet high standards. This will also pave the way for Indonesia to remain an attractive destination for both international and domestic tourists.
By implementing these new regulations, Indonesia is setting the stage for future tourism growth, creating an environment where fair competition, sustainability, and transparency will drive the next phase of the country’s rise in the global tourism industry.
Indonesia’s move to regulate Airbnb-style rentals comes at a critical moment when other Southeast Asian nations are grappling with similar issues. As cities like Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam also experience a rise in short-term rentals, the example set by Indonesia could serve as a blueprint for other countries in the region to follow. By addressing these challenges early on, Indonesia’s new regulations will set a precedent for regional tourism management that balances growth with responsibility.
In conclusion, Indonesia‘s decision to tighten regulations on Airbnb-style rentals in Bali and other key tourist destinations will create a more stable, predictable market for tourists and property owners alike. With millions of visitors expected to flock to the country in the coming years, these regulations will help ensure Indonesia continues to be a top global tourist destination while maintaining fairness, sustainability, and economic integrity.
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Japan’s innovative digital community currency systems are playing a significant role in revitalizing local economies, especially in the wake of the pandemic. In places like Shibuya in Tokyo, Gifu, and Miyagi, these systems are helping boost both local spending and tourism. Hachi Pay, a smartphone-based currency system named after the famous Hachiko dog, has seen a massive uptick in usage, offering a generous cashback reward for residents and visitors alike. With communities benefiting from high refund rates and increasing numbers of local shops and restaurants adopting these systems, they provide a win-win situation for both businesses and consumers. Additionally, these digital currencies offer local governments a more efficient and cost-effective way to tackle economic challenges while encouraging tourism. Foreign visitors, in particular, have also found these systems an attractive option for exploring Japan’s local culture and businesses.
Japan has long been home to a thriving culture of local currencies, which originated in the 1990s as a way to promote community spending and social interaction. These systems, which initially gained traction through physical tokens and paper-based currency, are now experiencing a resurgence in digital form. In cities like Shibuya, Gifu, and Miyagi, these digital currency systems are more than just a trend; they are an essential tool for revitalizing the local economy, attracting tourists, and promoting sustainability in the community.
One of the most notable examples is Hachi Pay, a digital currency launched by the Shibuya Ward government in 2022. This smartphone-based system has gained widespread popularity among locals and tourists alike, helping stimulate the local economy. Hachi Pay is used in over 4,300 merchant stores across Shibuya, and its success is attributed to its high cashback rewards, which have made it a preferred payment method for many consumers. The system is also designed to boost tourism, offering tourists a convenient way to make purchases and earn points during their visit.
The Hachi Pay system operates on the simple principle of offering cashbacks to users. For residents of Shibuya, the cashback is 8% of the purchase amount, while non-residents enjoy a 4% cashback. These points can be redeemed for future purchases, making it an attractive option for consumers looking to stretch their budgets. Additionally, the low commission rates for merchants—compared to traditional payment systems like PayPay—have led many local businesses to adopt Hachi Pay, further contributing to its success.
In Gifu and Miyagi, other regional currency systems, such as Sarubobo Coin and Natori Coin, have followed suit. These systems, which are funded through the central government’s Priority Support Local Allocation Grant, aim to ease the financial burden on local communities while simultaneously attracting tourists. The introduction of these systems has proven to be a cost-effective way for local governments to distribute financial assistance to residents while also encouraging visitors to spend in the region.
Tourists, both domestic and international, are increasingly drawn to Japan’s local currency systems because of their simplicity and practicality. Visitors can easily top up their digital wallets at convenience stores or through smartphone apps, making it a seamless part of their travel experience. This convenience, combined with the added benefit of cashback rewards, makes it an attractive option for tourists looking to immerse themselves in the local culture while also saving money.
In addition to Hachi Pay, other regions such as Shizuoka and Kagoshima have implemented similar systems like Sunset Coin and Toppa. These currencies not only facilitate local shopping but also promote sustainable tourism by encouraging travelers to purchase locally-sourced goods, such as fresh seafood in Nishi-Izu and unique local crafts in Hioki.
While the cashback rewards offered by these digital currencies benefit consumers, the economic impact is also significant for merchants. By keeping the merchant commission rates low—often as low as 1% for large-scale outlets and 0% for smaller businesses—these systems offer financial relief to businesses that have been struggling with rising costs. The introduction of these systems has helped increase the adoption rate among local businesses, allowing them to reach new customers, including tourists and non-residents.
The Shibuya Ward government, which spent approximately 1.4 billion yen in fiscal 2024 on supporting Hachi Pay campaigns, points, and other expenses, has seen significant returns on this investment. The total transaction volume for Hachi Pay reached approximately 10 billion yen, illustrating the growing role of digital currency systems in driving local commerce.
Despite their success, digital community currency systems face challenges, particularly when it comes to funding and sustainability. As noted by experts like Professor Rui Izumi from the Senshu University School of Economics, point refund systems funded by local governments could face financial pressures if they are not carefully managed. In some cases, local governments have had to suspend or scale back digital currency initiatives due to the high costs of operation.
For example, one local government in the Tohoku region had to cut back on its digital currency program after spending more on maintenance and system administration than it had received in transactions. However, Professor Izumi believes that these systems have a future, provided they can adapt and evolve to become more self-sustaining, perhaps by incorporating more private sector involvement and finding additional sources of funding.
Japan’s embrace of digital community currency systems like Hachi Pay is not just helping to boost local economies; it’s creating a unique, convenient, and cost-effective way for tourists to explore the country. With more regions adopting similar systems, Japan’s digital currency revolution is helping to foster sustainable tourism, encourage local spending, and make the country’s vibrant cities and towns even more attractive to visitors.
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In early March 2026, an airspace closure over the United Arab Emirates threw the nation’s aviation system into disarray. Emirates has suspended flights to and from Dubai due to the ongoing Middle East conflict. The airline announced that all scheduled flights would remain suspended until March 4, 2026, due to airspace closures across the region, following US and Israeli attacks on Iran and retaliatory strikes by Iran on neighboring countries. While Emirates continues to operate a limited number of repatriation and freighter flights, passengers are advised not to travel to the airport unless they have received direct confirmation from the airline. The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice, urging against all but essential travel to countries like the UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain. Other airlines, like British Airways, have also adjusted their schedules, offering passengers flexibility. Affected travelers can rebook on flights up to March 20, 2026, or request a refund. As the situation develops, Emirates and other airlines are focused on accommodating passengers and providing updates on the resumption of regular flights. The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Government of Dubai Media Office moved quickly to activate emergency procedures as the United States and Iran traded attacks. In this climate of fear, the national carrier Emirates, along with other airlines, was forced to halt most flights. Only a handful of special flights were allowed to operate under strict government oversight. Official announcements were filled with instructions, warnings, and reassurance. They revealed a coordinated effort by multiple governments to shape public behaviour, control rumours, and maintain order. This report examines those communications chronologically, using only official sources, to show how the crisis narrative was constructed. During these four days, many travellers were confused and frightened, watching government decisions guide their fate. Their futures hung on official pronouncements.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Situation Overview | Emirates Airline suspends all scheduled flights to and from Dubai until March 4, 2026, due to airspace closures caused by the ongoing Middle East conflict. |
| Cause of Disruption | The conflict between US-Israel and Iran, starting on February 28, 2026, led to missile strikes and retaliations that severely impacted regional air travel. |
| Current Flight Status | Emirates suspends flights and offers limited repatriation flights and freighter operations until March 4, 2026. Some Dubai Airports operations have resumed under restricted conditions. |
| Passenger Advisory | Dubai Airports advises passengers not to travel unless they have received confirmed departure information directly from their airline. |
| Flight Resumption Date | Scheduled flights to Dubai will resume at 11:59 PM UAE time on March 4, 2026. Emirates continues to monitor the situation. |
| Rebooking and Refunds | Passengers with cancelled flights can rebook on flights up to March 20, 2026, or request a refund if booking was made on or before March 10, 2026. |
| Impact on Other Airlines | Other airlines, including British Airways, have also cancelled flights to Dubai. Passengers on certain routes can amend travel dates to March 29, 2026. |
| Government Travel Advisory | The UK Foreign Office advises against non-essential travel to the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar due to ongoing security risks. |
| Travel Advice for Affected Passengers | Emirates asks passengers to check for flight confirmations before heading to the airport. Updated schedules are subject to change with minimal notice. |
| Travel Alternatives | Emirates offers repatriation flights for affected travelers, prioritizing those with earlier bookings. |
| Safety Measures | Emirates is focused on passenger safety and will provide updates on future flight schedules as the situation develops. |
| Long-Term Impact | The Middle East conflict is likely to continue disrupting air travel in the region, with many flights still suspended and airspace closures in place. |
On 1 March 2026 the GCAA announced that emergency plans were activated[1]. It was stated that UAE aviation could handle sudden schedule changes and reroute flights[1]. About twenty thousand passengers were affected[3]. Accommodation, meals and refreshments were promised and airlines would coordinate rebookings[3]. The government said it would pay hotel costs[3]. Travellers were urged to rely on official updates and not share rumours[1]. The announcement aimed to reassure the public and portray the state as supportive of citizens while emphasising obedience to official information sources during the crisis.
As the crisis unfolded it was stressed that passenger welfare was a top priority. Affected travellers were housed in hotels and given meals, with costs covered by the state[3]. Airlines worked closely with airports to organise temporary lodging and handle ticket changes[3]. The CAA reminded carriers of their legal duty to provide care under UK and EU rules, including re‑routing and refunds[4]. The narrative assured the public that no one would be abandoned. By highlighting food, water and shelter, officials presented an image of humanity even during danger, emphasising compassion and competence.
On 2 March 2026 the GCAA announced that exceptional flights would operate[5]. These special departures were arranged to help stranded passengers leave in coordination with airlines and foreign authorities[5]. Travellers were instructed to stay away from airports until contacted[6]. Officials thanked passengers for cooperating[6]. By offering a limited escape route while restricting most movement the state controlled travel. The announcement portrayed the special flights as a generous gesture rather than a necessity, preserving the narrative that authorities decided who would fly and when. This message reinforced patience and discipline among affected families.
On 2 March Dubai Airports announced a limited resumption of operations at Dubai International and Dubai World Central[7]. Only a few flights were authorised, demonstrating caution rather than a full reopening[7]. Passengers were told not to visit the airports without explicit airline instructions[7]. Emirates said it would run some services for customers with earlier bookings and would contact travellers directly[8]. All other flights stayed suspended[8]. By emphasising the small number of flights and strict rules, officials underlined the seriousness of the crisis while hinting at eventual normalisation. Tone remained solemn.
As exceptional operations were prepared the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi issued a security alert on 1 March 2026[2]. Americans were told to shelter in place[2]. The alert noted that UAE airspace remained closed and flight operations had been suspended[9]. Citizens were told to contact airlines for information and routine consular appointments were postponed[10]. Travellers were warned that spreading false information could lead to prosecution under UAE law[11]. The embassy emphasised safety and law while echoing the GCAA narrative to maintain order and calm.
On 2 March 2026 the U.S. Department of State raised its travel advisory for the UAE to Level 3. Non‑emergency staff and families were ordered to depart due to escalating regional conflict. Hostilities between the United States and Iran presented drone and missile risks to airports and tourist areas. Travellers were told to carefully review FAA notices and local laws. By linking flight disruptions to broader security risks, the advisory justified the prolonged airspace closure and framed the crisis as part of a larger geopolitical struggle.
On 1 March 2026 the UK CAA issued guidance for affected passengers. The notice said that many flights to and from the Middle East were cancelled[12]. Travellers were told to check Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office advice and contact airlines before leaving[12]. Airlines were reminded to minimise disruption and provide clear information[13]. The guidance explained that passengers could claim re‑routing, refunds or care under UK and EU law[4]. This empowered passengers while instructing them to be patient and signalled that carriers must uphold standards even amid crisis.
On 3 March 2026 the CAA issued further advice for disrupted passengers in the Middle East and Cyprus[14]. Travellers still faced uncertainty travelling between the region and the UK[14]. Airlines were required to offer alternative flights as soon as possible or later[14]. The guidance repeated that passengers could choose a refund or rerouting if a flight covered by UK legislation was cancelled[15]. Airlines were told to provide meals, refreshments and hotel accommodation proportional to delays[16]. The notice reinforced consumer rights while still recognising ongoing chaos.
Beyond flight schedules authorities were keen to control public narratives. The U.S. Embassy warned that sharing rumours or false news could lead to prosecution[11]. Likewise the GCAA urged passengers to rely only on official updates[1]. This focus on information discipline suggested that controlling news flow was as important as managing aircraft. By framing compliance with information rules as a civic duty, officials sought to prevent panic and unify the population. The message was clear: rumours were dangerous and obedience to official communication channels was essential for safety to protect public security and maintain order.
Throughout the crisis officials linked aviation disruption to broader geopolitics. The U.S. Department of State cited hostilities with Iran and the threat of drones and missiles when ordering non‑essential staff to leave. Warnings said terrorists could target tourist sites, transport hubs and public spaces. These warnings framed the UAE flight suspensions as part of a regional conflict rather than a domestic issue. By underscoring terrorism risk, officials sought to justify measures. The narrative implied that safety depended on obeying travel bans and shelter‑in‑place orders[2].
The crisis had consequences for Emirates and other carriers. With the airspace closed most flights were suspended[9]. The limited resumption at DXB and DWC allowed a handful of services[7]. Emirates prioritised earlier bookings and informed passengers directly, but most were left waiting[8]. Airlines were required to provide accommodation and refreshments, increasing costs[3][16]. By complying with government directives and emphasising customer care, Emirates was portrayed as patriotic and reliable. The crisis tested the national airline’s resilience and showed how commercial operations could be subordinated to state security priorities.
By 3–4 March 2026 no announcement signalled a full reopening of UAE airspace. The Level 3 travel advisory remained and the U.S. Embassy urged citizens to stay indoors[2]. Exceptional flights continued but normal operations were distant[5]. The CAA reminded passengers that delays might be long and to keep receipts for reimbursement[14]. Citizens were told to stay flexible, rely on official channels and respect legal boundaries on information sharing[1][11]. Recovery would be gradual and depend on developments beyond aviation for the time being.
| Category | Key incidents / announcements | Date & source |
| Emergency plans | Plans activated; flights rerouted; passengers housed and costs covered[1][3]. | 1 Mar 2026, GCAA |
| Accommodation | Hotels and meals provided; airlines coordinated lodging[3][4]. | 1–2 Mar 2026, GCAA/CAA |
| Special flights | Special flights authorised; passengers told to avoid airports until contacted[5][6]. | 2 Mar 2026, GCAA |
| Limited resumption | Few flights resumed at DXB and DWC; most suspended[7][8]. | 2 Mar 2026, Dubai Airports |
| Embassy alert | Airspace closure and sheltering advised; consular services postponed[2][17]. | 1 Mar 2026, U.S. Embassy |
| Travel advisory | Level 3 advisory issued, citing missile threats and terrorism. | 2 Mar 2026, U.S. Department of State |
| UK guidance | Check FCDO advice; contact airlines; rights to refunds and rerouting[18][14]. | 1–3 Mar 2026, CAA |
| Rumour control | Warnings issued against rumours; follow official updates[11][1]. | 1–4 Mar 2026, U.S. Embassy/GCAA |
The events of 1–4 March 2026 showed how quickly conflict could halt aviation. The GCAA, Dubai Airports, the U.S. Embassy, the U.S. Department of State and the CAA delivered messages that balanced caution with assurance. The airspace closure was presented as an unavoidable defence, while special flights and limited resumptions were portrayed as acts of mercy. Passengers were given lodging and refunds but were also told to obey instructions and avoid unverified stories. Emirates and other carriers were cast as loyal partners that followed instructions and cared for travellers. The crisis highlighted how aviation and geopolitics are intertwined and how governments can both protect and control their citizens. The official narrative insisted that caution and unity were paramount while people waited for peace and normal travel. The episode showed how facts, fear and patriotism can shape behaviour and sustain a national image during turbulence.
Sources:
[1] [3] Home | Emirates News Agency
https://www.wam.ae/en/article/173jo14-gcaa-activates-operational-plans-contain-impact
[2] [9] [10] [11] [17] Security Alert – UAE Update – U.S. Mission UAE, Mar. 1, 2026 – U.S. Embassy & Consulate in the United Arab Emirates
https://ae.usembassy.gov/security-alert-uae-update-u-s-mission-uae-mar-1-2026/
[4] [12] [13] [14] [15] [16] [18] Middle East – Passenger travel advice – 1 March 2026 | UK Civil Aviation Authority
https://www.caa.co.uk/newsroom/news/middle-east-passenger-travel-advice-1-march-2026/
[5] [6] Home | Emirates News Agency
https://www.wam.ae/en/article/bz02554-gcaa-announces-operation-exceptional-flights-uae
[7] [8] Dubai Airports announces limited flight resumption | Emirates News Agency
https://www.wam.ae/en/article/bz0257x-dubai-airports-announces-limited-flight
The South East and Tablelands Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan has been unveiled, outlining a clear 20-year vision to address the evolving transport needs of this region. Encompassing areas surrounding the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and extending across parts of New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria, this comprehensive plan will focus on improving connectivity, enhancing regional tourism, and fostering economic growth.
With 60 key actions and initiatives identified through extensive consultations with local stakeholders, the plan will create new opportunities for tourism and strengthen the links between regional towns and major centres. By improving transport infrastructure, the plan aims to make it easier for visitors to explore the beauty of the South East and Tablelands while supporting local economies and increasing tourism traffic to key attractions in the region.
Key Focus Areas to Enhance Regional Tourism
A major component of the plan involves enhancing transport services between key regional centres like Queanbeyan, Goulburn, Bega, and Moruya, as well as Greater Sydney, Wollongong, and Canberra. These improvements will create seamless travel options for tourists seeking to explore not only the coastal towns but also the beautiful rural landscapes of the South East and Tablelands.
The plan also focuses on new or improved bus and on-demand services, enhancing cross-border links with the ACT. These transport upgrades will make it easier for tourists to access regional attractions, improving travel connections between Canberra, Wollongong, and other regional hotspots. The easier it is for tourists to move between these areas, the more likely they are to spend extended time in the region, benefiting both local businesses and the tourism sector.
Additionally, the High Productivity Vehicle (HPV) access on key freight routes, including the Hume Highway, Princes Highway, Kings Highway, and Snowy Mountains Highway, will enhance regional travel and freight flow. This will support the movement of goods and services, further strengthening tourism services, especially for businesses in food, wine, and regional goods tourism.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Travel for Tourists
In line with promoting eco-tourism, the South East and Tablelands Transport Plan recognizes the need to support sustainable travel options. As part of the plan, there are focused efforts to improve heavy vehicle rest stops and better plan for Over-Sized Over-Mass (OSOM) movements. These initiatives aim to ensure smoother transportation for goods, while reducing environmental impacts and making the region a more accessible destination for eco-tourism.
Upgrades to major corridors, including Princes Highway, Barton Highway, and alpine routes like Clyde Mountain and Brown Mountain, will not only improve safety and resilience for local communities but will also enhance tourism access to key regions. Tourists will benefit from improved roads, making it easier and more enjoyable to visit iconic spots such as Moruya’s beaches, Bega’s dairy farms, and the alpine areas of New South Wales.
Building a Stronger Tourism Industry Through Feedback
The transport plan is rooted in significant community engagement, with over 1000 pieces of feedback collected from residents, businesses, and tourism operators across the region. This feedback helped shape the final plan, ensuring that it meets the specific needs of the tourism industry, local businesses, and transport users. Over 50 submissions from key stakeholders such as local councils and community organizations further helped guide the plan’s development, ensuring the final strategy directly reflects the region’s tourism priorities.
Economic Growth Through Tourism Infrastructure
The South East and Tablelands Transport Plan is designed to be a game-changer for the region’s tourism economy. As regional tourism continues to grow in popularity, improving transport links will help attract more tourists, who will explore not only well-known destinations but also lesser-known gems. This growth in tourism will benefit local businesses in accommodation, food and drink, retail, and other tourism-related sectors.
The transport upgrades outlined in the plan will also make it easier for tourists to visit areas outside major cities, benefiting towns and regions that rely heavily on tourism. As more tourists arrive, these areas will see significant increases in tourism spend, which will support the region’s economic development.
A Long-Term Vision for Sustainable Tourism
The plan’s comprehensive approach is designed to ensure that the South East and Tablelands regions continue to attract tourists for years to come. By focusing on sustainability, connectivity, and regional accessibility, the plan will ensure that the region remains a prime destination for both domestic and international visitors.
The $42 million funding application submitted to the Australian Government’s Regional Precincts and Partnerships program is crucial to the development of key sections of the rail trail, enhancing the region’s tourism infrastructure. The funding will help support the design, construction, and maintenance of these vital transport links, ensuring they meet the growing needs of the tourism sector and the local economy.
Conclusion: A Thriving Future for Regional Tourism in South East and Tablelands
The South East and Tablelands Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan is poised to deliver a brighter future for regional tourism in New South Wales. By improving transport links and supporting sustainable tourism initiatives, the plan lays the foundation for enhanced regional connectivity, stronger tourism offerings, and increased economic benefits. With a clear roadmap for the future and continued collaboration between local stakeholders, the transport plan ensures the region will continue to grow as a must-visit tourism destination for years to come.
As the plan progresses, its implementation will help connect communities, enhance visitor experiences, and deliver lasting benefits for both residents and tourists alike. The South East and Tablelands region is set to become an even more attractive destination, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, local culture, and eco-tourism opportunities for travelers.
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Japan has long been a dream destination for travellers, thanks to its rich cultural history, bustling cities, and stunning natural landscapes. However, navigating Japan’s extensive transport system can be a daunting and expensive experience for first-time visitors. With the price of Japan Rail Passes and city transit options steadily increasing, it’s more important than ever to determine whether these passes truly offer value for money. In this guide, we will dive into the best Japan Rail Passes, regional rail passes, and city transport tickets that can still help you save significantly in 2026. Whether you’re planning to explore Tokyo, Kyoto, or the scenic landscapes of Hokkaido, these passes could be your ticket to affordable travel across Japan.
Japan’s transportation system is a well-oiled machine, but navigating it without a solid plan can quickly add up in terms of cost. While the Japan Rail Pass has been a popular choice for tourists, a closer look at the price hikes and the types of journeys you plan to undertake can help you assess whether it is still the best option for your trip. For many, the appeal lies in the convenience of an unlimited pass, but it’s crucial to determine if you’re making the most of your pass by using it for long-distance journeys, or if opting for a local transit pass will provide greater savings.
Introduced as the ultimate way to explore Japan, the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is a favourite among tourists, offering unlimited travel on the Shinkansen and other JR-operated trains for a set period. However, after a significant price increase in October 2023, the JR Pass now costs around 50,000 yen for a 7-day pass for adults, with 14-day and 21-day options priced at 80,000 yen and 100,000 yen, respectively. These price hikes have made it less appealing unless your trip includes several long-distance Shinkansen journeys.
For example, if your itinerary includes round trips from Tokyo to Kyoto, a JR Pass could still offer value, as individual tickets for these journeys can exceed the cost of the 7-day pass. However, if your travel involves limited intercity trips or focuses on one specific area, the JR Pass might not be the best choice.
For many tourists, especially those concentrating on specific regions like Hokkaido, Kyushu, or Kansai, regional passes provide significant savings while offering unlimited travel within designated areas. These passes can be a far more affordable option compared to the nationwide JR Pass, offering flexibility and convenience at a fraction of the price.
Tip for Travelers: When choosing a regional pass, consider your travel distance. If you plan to take multiple Shinkansen trips across long distances in a short period, a regional pass can be your best bet to maximize savings.
While the JR Pass and regional passes are great for intercity travel, Japan’s cities have their own set of affordable city transit passes designed to make urban travel efficient and cost-effective. For travellers planning to focus on one city or region, these passes are an excellent way to save money on subway and bus rides.
Travel Tip: When using city transit passes, plan your day around the main attractions in one area, rather than crisscrossing the city. This ensures you get the most value from your pass.
Before committing to any pass, it’s essential to know exactly how you will be spending your days in Japan. Start by calculating the total cost of point-to-point tickets for the routes you plan to take. From there, compare the total cost of individual tickets to the price of a rail pass or city pass.
Japan offers a wide array of options to suit different travel styles and budgets. By carefully considering your itinerary and travel needs, you can ensure that the money spent on passes results in significant savings. Whether you’re traversing the Shinkansen routes of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, or exploring the scenic landscapes of Hokkaido and Tohoku, there are passes tailored to make your journey affordable, convenient, and unforgettable.
Japan is a country that rewards careful planning, and selecting the right pass is a key part of optimizing your experience. Whether you choose a nationwide JR Pass or a local city transit ticket, understanding how and when to use them will make your trip more affordable and enjoyable.
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The Northern Rivers Rail Trail project is taking an exciting leap forward in the Byron Shire, with a clear focus on achieving practical, sustainable solutions that will greatly benefit regional tourism. After extensive discussions and considerations, the Byron Shire Council has decided to progress with the rail trail along the existing formation, despite initial discussions about a multi-use corridor. While the idea of a multi-use corridor, which would cater to pedestrians, cyclists, and potentially vehicles, was attractive to some, the realities of funding limitations and environmental concerns led the Council to opt for a more achievable plan.
This decision has paved the way for the Northern Rivers Rail Trail to become an essential part of the region’s growing tourism infrastructure, offering visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Byron Shire, Tweed, and Lismore through sustainable, eco-friendly travel options. With a strong focus on regional connectivity and eco-tourism, the rail trail is set to become a cornerstone of local tourism development.
Balancing Vision and Practicality for Tourism Success
The initial vision for a multi-use corridor presented the potential for an expanded project that would allow various forms of transportation, including cycling, walking, and even motor vehicles. However, the challenges of land tenure and the environmental impact on the sensitive ecosystems along the corridor made this option less feasible. Expanding the project would have required significant land negotiations and posed potential threats to the wetlands and other critical habitats for local wildlife, which are essential to the region’s ecological integrity.
Instead, the focus shifted to the existing rail formation, a more sustainable and realistic path forward that aligns with the region’s broader tourism goals. This rail trail will still enhance regional connectivity, allowing visitors and locals alike to explore the stunning landscapes that define the area. Moreover, it will provide a safer and more sustainable transport option, encouraging visitors to experience the region’s beauty at a slower, more thoughtful pace, which is at the heart of eco-tourism.
Boosting Regional Tourism Through Improved Connectivity
One of the primary reasons for advancing the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is the opportunity it presents to enhance regional tourism. The rail trail will provide a seamless passive transport link between key towns in the region, including Byron Shire, Tweed, and Lismore. This connection is essential in encouraging visitors to explore the diverse landscapes and attractions the region offers, from tranquil beaches to lush forests, all while using eco-friendly modes of transport like walking and cycling.
The trail’s development is expected to attract a variety of tourists, from eco-tourists seeking sustainable travel options to families and outdoor enthusiasts eager to experience the natural wonders of the Byron Shire and beyond. By offering an immersive travel experience, the rail trail will help foster a deeper connection between visitors and the environment, creating opportunities for tourism that go beyond traditional sightseeing.
The rail trail’s appeal lies not only in its scenic routes but also in the chance it gives visitors to access hidden gems in the region, such as lesser-known natural reserves, local communities, and cultural landmarks. This will drive tourism flows beyond the main tourist hubs, benefiting local businesses by attracting visitors to spend time in smaller towns and communities along the trail.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
In addition to the environmental and tourism benefits, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail will significantly contribute to the local economy. The development of the trail is expected to generate job opportunities in construction, tourism, hospitality, and event management, providing a valuable source of employment for both locals and visitors to the region.
As more visitors come to explore the trail, there will be increased demand for accommodation, restaurants, and local services, all of which will benefit from the growing flow of tourism. The rail trail will not only attract new visitors to the region but will also encourage those already visiting to extend their stays and explore more of what the region has to offer. This extended stay potential is a crucial aspect of how the rail trail will contribute to the region’s tourism revenue.
Securing Funding for Continued Development
A major step in advancing the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is the ongoing effort to secure funding for its development. The Council has submitted a $42 million funding application to the Australian Government’s Regional Precincts and Partnerships program to support the design and construction of key sections of the trail, including those linking Mullumbimby to Crabbes Creek, Lismore to Bexhill, and Bangalow Showgrounds to the Bangalow industrial estate.
The outcome of this application is pivotal for the continued progress of the trail. If successful, the funding will ensure the necessary resources are in place to bring these sections of the trail to life, allowing for sustainable tourism growth and offering more areas for visitors to enjoy. By securing this funding, the project will continue to build momentum and establish the trail as an integral part of the region’s tourism infrastructure.
Long-Term Sustainability and Community Engagement
The focus on a sustainable and achievable solution ensures that the Northern Rivers Rail Trail will continue to provide long-term value for the region. By choosing to develop the trail along the existing rail corridor, the Council is ensuring that the project aligns with the environmental and financial realities of the area while maintaining its potential for future expansion.
The project also reflects a commitment to maintaining the rail corridor in public ownership, ensuring that the trail remains a public resource that can be enjoyed by all, both now and in the future. This decision not only strengthens the region’s tourism offerings but also supports community engagement by involving local residents in the planning and development process.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Regional Tourism
The Northern Rivers Rail Trail represents a forward-thinking approach to regional tourism development, providing a unique opportunity to enhance local tourism while fostering a deeper connection to the environment. By focusing on practical, sustainable steps, the project ensures that the Byron Shire and its neighboring regions can continue to grow as ecologically sustainable tourism destinations.
As the rail trail moves forward, the continued focus on securing funding and expanding regional connections will ensure that it remains a significant asset for the tourism industry. The rail trail not only offers visitors an opportunity to experience the beauty of the Byron Shire but also provides local businesses with the tools they need to grow and thrive in a sustainable, tourism-driven economy.
The post Northern Rivers Rail Trail Set to Transform Byron Shire: Boosting Tourism, Connectivity, and the Local Economy with Eco-Friendly Travel appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Sydney, Australia’s most iconic city, has become the ultimate destination for female travelers seeking both adventure and safety. With its world-renowned attractions, vibrant culture, and commitment to providing a safe environment, Sydney is not only Australia’s largest city but also its most female-friendly destination in 2026.
As one of the safest cities in the world, according to multiple travel safety indexes, Sydney’s focus on inclusivity and safety has made it the top choice for solo female travelers and groups alike. Government-backed initiatives to boost security for all visitors have been key to this growing reputation. Through strategic investments in urban infrastructure, women visiting Sydney can expect accessible, well-lit public spaces and reliable transportation.
The Australian government, through its official tourism platform, Australia.com, highlights the measures taken to ensure the safety of travelers, especially women. Sydney’s transport systems are among the safest globally, with easy access to public transportation, ensuring that all visitors feel secure as they explore the city. Regular patrols by the New South Wales Police, combined with well-monitored public spaces, make Sydney a top destination for women travelers seeking peace of mind during their trips.
According to Tourism Australia and official tourism sources, the city continues to invest in safety programs, including accessible facilities for those with disabilities and the elderly, ensuring women’s safety on every front. Women traveling alone are also encouraged to utilize these government-supported resources to ensure a smooth and secure experience throughout their stay.
Sydney offers numerous attractions that cater to diverse interests, providing an inclusive experience for all travelers. The Sydney Opera House, with its stunning architecture and world-class performances, remains a popular destination, especially for women who appreciate the arts and culture. Similarly, Bondi Beach attracts tourists who want to unwind in one of the city’s most iconic coastal locations.
Government-backed events such as the Vivid Sydney Festival offer a safe space for female travelers to connect, explore, and enjoy artistic displays of light, music, and culture. These celebrations make Sydney a destination that promotes empowerment through art and shared experiences, especially for women.
Sydney’s world-class accommodation options also enhance the experience for women traveling solo. High-end hotels in the city, including the Hilton Sydney and Park Hyatt, are known for offering specialized services for women, ensuring they feel comfortable and well-catered for.
Australia’s government has worked hard to create an environment where women can travel with confidence. Initiatives like Smartraveller, the official travel advisory service by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, provide tailored advice and safety tips for female travelers. This free service allows women to stay informed about the best practices for travel safety, reducing risks and making travel more accessible.
Additionally, the Women’s Safety Agenda established by the Australian government focuses on improving safety measures for women in public spaces, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Sydney. This proactive stance on women’s safety in the tourism sector reflects the country’s commitment to creating a welcoming environment for travelers of all genders.
Sydney’s commitment to female empowerment is not only seen in its safety initiatives but also through its increasing focus on sustainability. Government programs support local female entrepreneurs, such as women-led eco-tourism projects and sustainable travel ventures. These initiatives aim to provide women with more leadership opportunities within the tourism industry, further promoting gender equality within the sector.
Female travelers are encouraged to participate in eco-friendly activities like the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, which showcases Sydney’s breathtaking natural landscapes. Additionally, the city’s initiatives to promote responsible tourism align with women’s growing interest in sustainability and community-driven travel experiences.
Sydney’s emergence as Australia’s most female-friendly destination in 2026 is not merely a coincidence. With its robust government-backed safety measures, diverse attractions, and inclusive environment, it is the ideal destination for women seeking both adventure and security.
From the stunning beaches of Bondi to the vibrant arts scene at the Opera House, Sydney offers a blend of cultural richness and safety that women travelers can trust. The city’s ongoing commitment to safety and female empowerment ensures that all visitors feel welcome and secure, making Sydney the ultimate destination for any woman looking for a memorable and safe travel experience.2026’s Ultimate Female Travel Destination: Why Sydney Is Leaving Every Other City Behind!
The post 2026’s Ultimate Female Travel Destination: Why Sydney Is Leaving Every Other City Behind! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
The Gold Coast is set to embark on a new journey in luxury tourism, as Hilton announces the debut of LXR Hotels & Resorts in Australia. The iconic property, located at Southport Spit, was once known as Palazzo Versace and currently operates as The Imperial Hotel Gold Coast. In early 2027, after an extensive renovation, it will be relaunched under the prestigious LXR brand. This development is expected to elevate the Gold Coast’s status as a world-class destination and provide a significant boost to the region’s tourism industry.
The property, which will offer 200 luxurious rooms, features grand neoclassical architecture combined with Italian-inspired interiors. It will also offer direct access to the Gold Coast Broadwater, a prime location that is expected to attract both local and international visitors. The newly revamped hotel is strategically situated near Marina Mirage, further enhancing its appeal for leisure travelers looking for premium accommodations in the heart of the Gold Coast.
LXR Hotels & Resorts is renowned for its focus on luxury and bespoke service, with each property emphasizing local culture and heritage. The Gold Coast property will follow this philosophy, ensuring that guests experience not only comfort but also an immersion into the destination’s unique character. The transformation of the former Palazzo Versace property into a modern LXR hotel aligns perfectly with the region’s growing demand for high-end travel experiences.
This development is part of Hilton’s broader strategy to expand its luxury portfolio, which includes brands like Curio Collection and Tapestry Collection. LXR’s entry into Australia is significant because it marks the brand’s first property in the country, helping Hilton to tap into the rising demand for high-quality, experiential travel options across the region. This move aligns with Australia’s efforts to attract high-spending tourists and diversify its tourism offerings, which in turn will generate higher visitor expenditure and longer stays, especially from international markets.
The Gold Coast has long been a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. Its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and family-friendly attractions have helped it maintain its status as one of Australia’s most visited destinations. However, as the tourism market evolves, there is an increasing need for more diverse accommodation options to cater to the luxury travel segment. The introduction of LXR Hotels & Resorts is expected to fill this gap and appeal to affluent tourists seeking more exclusive, bespoke experiences.
According to Tourism Research Australia and Queensland Government tourism data, the Gold Coast’s tourism industry has seen steady growth in recent years, with visitation numbers steadily increasing, both domestically and internationally. In 2024, approximately 13 million visitors flocked to the Gold Coast, with international markets contributing significantly to the region’s growth. As the demand for premium services continues to rise, this new LXR property will play a crucial role in attracting high-spending visitors from around the world. The region’s strategic location, excellent transport links, and proximity to Brisbane International Airport will further enhance its appeal for international travelers.
Tourism experts believe that the LXR Hotels & Resorts Gold Coast will provide a substantial boost to the local economy. In addition to creating jobs within the hospitality sector, the influx of high-value tourists will also stimulate other areas of the economy, such as retail, dining, and local attractions. Premium tourists tend to spend more on experiences, which benefits local businesses and increases the overall economic impact of tourism in the area.
The development of the LXR property also complements broader tourism growth strategies, with Queensland focusing on attracting investment in both infrastructure and accommodation. The Gold Coast’s ability to host major international events like the 2032 Brisbane Olympics positions it as a key player in global tourism. The new LXR hotel will not only provide a world-class venue for international visitors but will also enhance the region’s capacity to host luxury-focused events and conferences.
Looking ahead, the LXR Hotels & Resorts debut represents more than just the opening of a luxury hotel—it is a strategic move to cement the Gold Coast’s position as a leading destination for high-end travelers. By offering exclusive experiences, refined luxury, and a unique local touch, the hotel is set to become a key driver in Queensland’s tourism growth and a beacon for global visitors.
The upcoming opening of LXR Hotels & Resorts on the Gold Coast will undoubtedly enhance the region’s tourism offerings. With its focus on luxury, bespoke service, and local cultural experiences, this property is set to attract a high-value clientele, boost the local economy, and reinforce the Gold Coast’s reputation as a world-class destination. As the region continues to grow as a global tourism hub, this new addition is a sign of exciting things to come for the future of Queensland tourism.
The post Gold Coast’s Gamechanger: LXR Hotels and Resorts Elevates Australia to Top Global Luxury Destination! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Victoria’s live music festivals are taking center stage in 2026, with a significant boost to the state’s tourism industry thanks to the Live Music Festivals Fund. Offering grants of up to $50,000 for festival operators, the fund is designed to support major music festivals across Victoria, attracting both local and international visitors and contributing to the region’s growing appeal as a key destination for cultural tourism.
This funding initiative not only strengthens Victoria’s live music scene but also plays a vital role in driving tourism growth by supporting events that bring in large crowds, generate economic activity, and encourage extended stays. With an expanding festival calendar, Victoria is solidifying its reputation as a vibrant and dynamic destination for music lovers and tourists alike.
Live Music Festivals: A Catalyst for Regional and Statewide Tourism
The Live Music Festivals Fund is dedicated to supporting festivals that attract over 1,000 attendees, promoting a broad range of events from iconic festivals to emerging ones. Festivals such as the Echuca-Moama’s Riverboats Festival, Queenscliff Music Festival, and the Port Fairy Folk Music Festival have benefitted from this support, attracting tourists from around Australia and the world. These festivals provide visitors with the chance to experience the state’s rich cultural fabric, blending world-class live performances with local flavor, landscapes, and community spirit.
As part of the Allan Labor Government’s initiative, this funding ensures that Victoria’s festivals not only thrive but also continue to bring in visitors who contribute to local economies. For many regional towns and cities across Victoria, festivals are a key driver of tourism, boosting local businesses, accommodation providers, and restaurants by drawing large crowds to the area.
Economic Impact and Job Creation Through Music Tourism
Music festivals are more than just a celebration of sound; they are an economic powerhouse for local communities. Festivals such as the Port Fairy Folk Music Festival and Queenscliff Music Festival drive significant tourism revenue. These events attract both interstate and international visitors, who spend money on travel, accommodations, food, and other local services, creating a ripple effect that benefits the entire local economy.
As these festivals grow in popularity, they create more jobs, especially in regions where employment opportunities may be limited. The live music scene fosters employment in diverse sectors, from event management to hospitality, retail, and even tourism infrastructure. The Live Music Festivals Fund not only supports these events but ensures that they continue to provide sustainable benefits for local workers and businesses, fostering a thriving tourism ecosystem across the state.
Expanding Victoria’s Cultural Tourism Offerings
Victoria’s diverse cultural offerings, bolstered by live music festivals, are key components in the state’s growing cultural tourism sector. Festivals provide an opportunity for visitors to connect with local talent and creative communities, offering a unique experience that is often tied to the state’s identity and heritage.
The Live Music Festivals Fund has already helped a range of established festivals, such as the Queenscliff Music Festival, gain national and international attention. Emerging festivals, such as the Bulleen’s Gateway Festival, are also benefiting from the program, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are spread across Victoria’s cities and regional areas.
With the additional funding, these festivals will be able to enhance their offerings and attract even more visitors. Whether it’s through live performances, local food experiences, or family-friendly activities, these festivals are designed to keep visitors engaged and help them explore all that Victoria has to offer, from city experiences to natural wonders in regional areas.
Supporting Local Talent and Community Engagement
One of the most exciting aspects of Victoria’s live music festivals is the opportunity they provide for local artists to showcase their talents and engage with wider audiences. For emerging musicians, festivals offer a platform to perform in front of large crowds, while for well-known artists, it’s an opportunity to engage with loyal fans and broaden their reach.
The Live Music Festivals Fund plays a crucial role in supporting this ecosystem. By enabling local musicians to perform at festivals, the fund not only supports the artists themselves but also strengthens the community around them. Music festivals foster shared experiences and cultural exchange, creating a sense of belonging and pride among local residents while also attracting international visitors who seek an authentic cultural experience.
The Lakeside Festival presented by American Express, which will feature performances by Mallrat and Logic1000, is just one example of how these festivals mix local talent with international appeal. Festivals like these showcase the region’s musical diversity, making Victoria a vibrant destination for cultural tourism throughout the year.
Increasing Tourism Through Partnerships and Accessibility
In addition to providing grants to festival organisers, the Live Music Festivals Fund encourages the development of partnerships between local councils, regional tourism organisations, and festival operators. These collaborations are essential in growing the reach and impact of festivals, ensuring that tourism benefits are felt not just by the event organisers, but by the entire region.
By supporting both regional and urban festivals, the fund ensures that every corner of Victoria can benefit from the influx of tourists, who stay longer and explore more during their visit. The Live Music Festivals Fund also supports affordable access for visitors, including special initiatives like Thursday Park Passes for festivals that offer multi-day access and keep ticket prices accessible for families and young visitors.
A Promising Future for Music and Tourism in Victoria
The introduction of the Live Music Festivals Fund highlights the importance of sports tourism and cultural tourism as economic drivers for Victoria’s future. By supporting both large-scale festivals and emerging events, the fund ensures that Victoria remains a top destination for visitors seeking authentic cultural experiences.
The Live Music Festivals Fund is just one part of a larger strategy to ensure Victoria’s music and tourism industries continue to grow together, benefiting local businesses, tourism providers, and the broader community. As the state continues to support its live music sector, Victoria’s reputation as a must-visit destination for cultural tourism will only continue to grow.
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© <p>Erwin Barbé/Adobe Stock</p>
Google’s Android 16 March 2026 Feature Drop just landed, and it’s carrying a lot more weight than the usual incremental stuff.
We’re talking AI-generated icon packs, desktop mode expansion, and automation that’ll actually tap through apps for you while you watch. [Credits – 9to5Google]
Pixel 6 and newer devices can now let AI redesign every icon on your homescreen. Google’s offering five styles: Scribbles, Cookies, Easel, Treasure, and Stardust.
Comfort View showed up too, but only on Pixel 10 models. It tones down bright and saturated colors for people sensitive to visual overload.
Pixel 10 flagships received Gemini automation, the same capability Samsung let slip with the Galaxy S26 last week. You tell it to book a ride or order groceries, and it opens the app in a secure window and just does it.
Google’s lock screen At a Glance widget now pulls in real-time sports scores, stock market movers from your Finance watchlist, and live commute updates starting on Pixel 7 and newer models.
My Commute will surface delays and alternate routes without you needing to open an app.
Magic Cue learned a new trick too. When your group chat starts hunting for restaurant options, your Pixel 10 will trigger a search based on what people are saying.
Pixel 8 and newer phones now support desktop windowing through Desktop Mode when you plug in a monitor, keyboard, and mouse via USB DisplayPort. Connected Cameras now works with DSLRs and supported camera apps over cable.
Feature expansion:
What’s included
The March 2026 update includes bug fixes and improvements for Pixel users – see below for details
Audio
Camera
Display & Graphics
Framework
Telephony
User Interface
The post Android 16 March 2026 Feature Drop rolling out with AI automation, icon redesign and more features appeared first on Sammy Fans.
The Toyota RAV4 is the best-selling vehicle in Ukraine in February.
4,208 new light vehicles found a buyer in Ukraine in February, a steep -13.3% year-on-year drop. The year-to-date tally tilts into negative territory as a result at -0.3% to 8,904 units. Toyota (+2%) goes against the grain and advances to 19.7% share, its highest in a long while. Renault (-17%) is battered to 10% of the market, with Skoda (-7.9%) and Volkswagen (-4.2%) resisting better. Below, Hyundai (+74.5%), Peugeot (+73.3%), Mazda (+39.2%) and Lexus (+34.1%) all post fantastic results. Among the Chinese, Jetour (+241.7%) and Chery (+90.9%) impress but BYD (-58.7%) crashes to #16 vs. #2 in January. Zeekr (-69.6%) is also in difficulty at #24.
Looking at the models charts, we return to some kind of “normalcy” with the almost absence of Chinese-made grey imports. The Toyota RAV4 (-2.4%) topples the Renault Duster (-11.9%) to claim the top spot, not only for the month but also year-to-date. The Toyota Prado (+27.2%) stays in third position above the Hyundai Tucson (+80.4%), Mazda CX-5 (+28.4%) and VW Touareg (+39.5%). The Skoda Kodiaq (-7.8%) and Karoq (+21.1%) ensure the Top 8 is 100% composed of SUVs. The Toyota Camry (+27.5%) is the best of the rest at #9 and also scores a sturdy year-on-year lift. BYD’s best-seller is the Sealion 6 down 41 spots on last month to #49.
Previous month: Ukraine January 2026: Renault Duster leads market up 15.2%, BYD Leopard 3 #5
Previous year: Ukraine Full Year 2025: Toyota and Renault Duster #1, BYD at 26.3% share in December
Full February 2026 Top 55 All brands and Top 252 All models below.
Ukraine February 2026 – brands:
| Pos | Brand | Feb-26 | % | /25 | Jan | 1-2 2026 | % | /25 | Pos | FY25 |
| 1 | Toyota | 827 | 19.7% | + 2.0% | 1 | 1,590 | 17.9% | + 6.8% | 1 | 1 |
| 2 | Renault | 419 | 10.0% | – 17.0% | 3 | 872 | 9.8% | – 5.1% | 2 | 4 |
| 3 | Skoda | 371 | 8.8% | – 7.9% | 4 | 708 | 8.0% | + 2.5% | 3 | 5 |
| 4 | Volkswagen | 299 | 7.1% | – 4.2% | 6 | 580 | 6.5% | + 17.6% | 4 | 3 |
| 5 | Hyundai | 281 | 6.7% | + 74.5% | 5 | 574 | 6.4% | + 64.0% | 6 | 6 |
| 6 | Mazda | 213 | 5.1% | + 39.2% | 8 | 373 | 4.2% | + 38.1% | 7 | 12 |
| 7 | BMW | 175 | 4.2% | – 28.6% | 9 | 333 | 3.7% | – 22.2% | 8 | 7 |
| 8 | Suzuki | 141 | 3.4% | – 43.6% | 12 | 268 | 3.0% | – 37.2% | 10 | 11 |
| 9 | Peugeot | 130 | 3.1% | + 73.3% | 7 | 316 | 3.5% | + 102.6% | 9 | 16 |
| 10 | Mercedes | 123 | 2.9% | – 13.4% | 15 | 225 | 2.5% | – 15.4% | 14 | 13 |
| 11 | Lexus | 110 | 2.6% | + 34.1% | 14 | 230 | 2.6% | + 34.5% | 13 | 17 |
| 12 | Nissan | 110 | 2.6% | – 38.5% | 10 | 256 | 2.9% | – 22.7% | 11 | 14 |
| 13 | Citroen | 104 | 2.5% | – 6.3% | 11 | 239 | 2.7% | + 8.1% | 12 | 15 |
| 14 | Audi | 96 | 2.3% | – 43.5% | 16 | 172 | 1.9% | – 45.6% | 15 | 9 |
| 15 | Mitsubishi | 95 | 2.3% | – 2.1% | 17 | 164 | 1.8% | – 17.2% | 16 | 19 |
| 16 | BYD | 86 | 2.0% | – 58.7% | 2 | 577 | 6.5% | + 27.4% | 5 | 2 |
| 17 | Land Rover | 73 | 1.7% | – 27.7% | 20 | 128 | 1.4% | – 17.9% | 18 | 21 |
| 18 | Opel | 62 | 1.5% | + 47.6% | 22 | 111 | 1.2% | + 9.9% | 19 | 22 |
| 19 | Kia | 43 | 1.0% | – 63.6% | 19 | 102 | 1.1% | – 58.9% | 20 | 18 |
| 20 | Chery | 42 | 1.0% | + 90.9% | 21 | 94 | 1.1% | + 80.8% | 22 | 26 |
| 21 | Volvo | 42 | 1.0% | – 61.1% | 18 | 102 | 1.1% | – 47.7% | 21 | 20 |
| 22 | Jetour | 41 | 1.0% | + 241.7% | 24 | 81 | 0.9% | + 268.2% | 23 | 31 |
| 23 | Porsche | 37 | 0.9% | – 28.8% | 26 | 72 | 0.8% | – 18.2% | 24 | 23 |
| 24 | Zeekr | 34 | 0.8% | – 69.6% | 13 | 158 | 1.8% | – 28.8% | 17 | 8 |
| 25 | Seat | 33 | 0.8% | + 13.8% | 32 | 49 | 0.6% | – 14.0% | 28 | 29 |
| 26 | Ford | 31 | 0.7% | – 48.3% | 25 | 67 | 0.8% | – 28.0% | 25 | 25 |
| 27 | SsangYong | 28 | 0.7% | + 1300.0% | 41 | 32 | 0.4% | + 1500.0% | 32 | 42 |
| 28 | Fiat | 22 | 0.5% | – 66.7% | 27 | 53 | 0.6% | – 47.5% | 26 | 24 |
| 29 | Subaru | 22 | 0.5% | – 42.1% | 29 | 49 | 0.6% | – 26.9% | 29 | 27 |
| 30 | MG | 19 | 0.5% | – 29.6% | 34 | 34 | 0.4% | – 8.1% | 30 | 28 |
| 31 | Honda | 10 | 0.2% | – 82.1% | 23 | 52 | 0.6% | – 54.4% | 27 | 10 |
| 32 | Avatr | 9 | 0.2% | new | 31 | 25 | 0.3% | new | 33 | 36 |
| 33 | Cupra | 9 | 0.2% | – 43.8% | 35 | 20 | 0.2% | – 37.5% | 36 | 34 |
| 34 | Mini | 9 | 0.2% | + 12.5% | 37 | 17 | 0.2% | + 30.8% | 37 | 35 |
| 35 | Jeep | 8 | 0.2% | – 75.0% | 38 | 15 | 0.2% | – 70.0% | 38 | 30 |
| 36 | Denza | 6 | 0.1% | + 50.0% | 39 | 12 | 0.1% | + 9.1% | 39 | 32 |
| 37 | Great Wall | 6 | 0.1% | + 100.0% | 33 | 21 | 0.2% | + 600.0% | 35 | 40 |
| 38 | Alfa Romeo | 4 | 0.1% | #DIV/0! | 45 | 6 | 0.1% | + 500.0% | 42 | 44 |
| 39 | Geely | 4 | 0.1% | + 100.0% | 36 | 12 | 0.1% | + 500.0% | 40 | 37 |
| 40 | Lixiang | 4 | 0.1% | + 0.0% | 40 | 10 | 0.1% | + 42.9% | 41 | 41 |
| 41 | Lynk & Co | 4 | 0.1% | new | 50 | 6 | 0.1% | new | 43 | 63 |
| 42 | Maxus | 4 | 0.1% | + 0.0% | 58 | 5 | 0.1% | – 37.5% | 46 | 47 |
| 43 | Xiaomi | 4 | 0.1% | – 33.3% | 28 | 33 | 0.4% | + 312.5% | 31 | 33 |
| 44 | Farizon | 3 | 0.1% | new | 47 | 5 | 0.1% | new | 44 | 74 |
| 45 | Isuzu | 3 | 0.1% | n/a | 49 | 5 | 0.1% | n/a | 45 | 64 |
| 46 | JMC | 2 | 0.0% | new | – | 2 | 0.0% | new | 55 | – |
| 47 | AITO | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 44 | 3 | 0.0% | + 200.0% | 47 | 65 |
| 48 | Aston Martin | 1 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | – | 1 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 59 | 68 |
| 49 | Bentley | 1 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | – | 1 | 0.0% | – 75.0% | 60 | 58 |
| 50 | Deepal | 1 | 0.0% | new | 53 | 2 | 0.0% | new | 51 | 85 |
| 51 | DS | 1 | 0.0% | – 75.0% | 54 | 2 | 0.0% | – 81.8% | 52 | 43 |
| 52 | Iveco | 1 | 0.0% | – 75.0% | 55 | 2 | 0.0% | – 60.0% | 54 | 48 |
| 53 | JAC | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 30 | 24 | 0.3% | + 71.4% | 34 | 45 |
| 54 | MAN | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 62 | 54 |
| 55 | Maserati | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 57 | 2 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 56 | 49 |
Ukraine February 2026 – models:
| Pos | Make | Model | Category | Feb-26 | % | /25 | Jan | 2026 1-2 | % | /25 | Pos | FY25 |
| 1 | TOYOTA | RAV4 | PC | 327 | 7.8% | – 2.4% | 2 | 620 | 7.0% | + 18.5% | 1 | 2 |
| 2 | RENAULT | DUSTER | PC | 288 | 6.8% | – 11.9% | 1 | 595 | 6.7% | + 2.6% | 2 | 1 |
| 3 | TOYOTA | LAND CRUISER PRADO | PC | 206 | 4.9% | + 27.2% | 3 | 402 | 4.5% | + 25.2% | 3 | 6 |
| 4 | HYUNDAI | TUCSON | PC | 175 | 4.2% | + 80.4% | 4 | 349 | 3.9% | + 67.0% | 4 | 5 |
| 5 | MAZDA | CX-5 | PC | 140 | 3.3% | + 28.4% | 7 | 259 | 2.9% | + 35.6% | 5 | 10 |
| 6 | VOLKSWAGEN | TOUAREG | PC | 120 | 2.9% | + 39.5% | 13 | 187 | 2.1% | + 41.7% | 7 | 8 |
| 7 | SKODA | KODIAQ | PC | 118 | 2.8% | – 7.8% | 6 | 249 | 2.8% | + 6.9% | 6 | 7 |
| 8 | SKODA | KAROQ | PC | 109 | 2.6% | + 21.1% | 16 | 171 | 1.9% | + 42.5% | 8 | 18 |
| 9 | TOYOTA | CAMRY | PC | 65 | 1.5% | + 27.5% | 18 | 120 | 1.3% | + 0.8% | 12 | 21 |
| 10 | SUZUKI | SX4 S-CROSS | PC | 63 | 1.5% | – 44.7% | 21 | 113 | 1.3% | – 40.2% | 14 | 16 |
| 11 | SKODA | OCTAVIA | PC | 59 | 1.4% | – 50.4% | 12 | 127 | 1.4% | – 43.3% | 10 | 12 |
| 12 | VOLKSWAGEN | TIGUAN | PC | 58 | 1.4% | – 29.3% | 31 | 95 | 1.1% | – 15.9% | 17 | 24 |
| 13 | NISSAN | X-TRAIL | PC | 55 | 1.3% | + 7.8% | 19 | 107 | 1.2% | + 69.8% | 15 | 27 |
| 14 | MITSUBISHI | OUTLANDER | PC | 49 | 1.2% | + 75.0% | 45 | 77 | 0.9% | + 45.3% | 22 | 50 |
| 15 | TOYOTA | HILUX | LCV | 49 | 1.2% | – 23.4% | 35 | 83 | 0.9% | – 28.4% | 21 | 37 |
| 16 | SUZUKI | VITARA | PC | 48 | 1.1% | – 57.1% | 26 | 89 | 1.0% | – 51.9% | 18 | 19 |
| 17 | NISSAN | QASHQAI | PC | 45 | 1.1% | – 48.9% | 9 | 119 | 1.3% | – 37.7% | 13 | 22 |
| 18 | HYUNDAI | STARIA | PC | 43 | 1.0% | n/a | 24 | 84 | 0.9% | + 1300.0% | 20 | 42 |
| 19 | KIA | SPORTAGE | PC | 43 | 1.0% | – 60.9% | 17 | 99 | 1.1% | – 57.1% | 16 | 15 |
| 20 | TOYOTA | YARIS CROSS | PC | 39 | 0.9% | – 39.1% | 37 | 73 | 0.8% | – 29.8% | 24 | 20 |
| 21 | BMW | X5 | PC | 38 | 0.9% | + 35.7% | 40 | 68 | 0.8% | + 13.3% | 30 | 43 |
| 22 | MAZDA | CX-30 | PC | 38 | 0.9% | + 65.2% | 82 | 52 | 0.6% | + 57.6% | 45 | 55 |
| 23 | TOYOTA | PROACE CITY VERSO | PC | 38 | 0.9% | + 171.4% | 54 | 63 | 0.7% | + 90.9% | 36 | 54 |
| 24 | AUDI | Q8 | PC | 36 | 0.9% | – 50.7% | 47 | 62 | 0.7% | – 49.6% | 38 | 26 |
| 25 | MITSUBISHI | L200 | LCV | 36 | 0.9% | + 71.4% | 52 | 61 | 0.7% | + 35.6% | 40 | 82 |
| 26 | RENAULT | EXPRESS | LCV | 36 | 0.9% | + 1100.0% | 38 | 68 | 0.8% | + 385.7% | 29 | 33 |
| 27 | VOLKSWAGEN | TAYRON | PC | 34 | 0.8% | new | 44 | 63 | 0.7% | new | 37 | 110 |
| 28 | SKODA | SUPERB | PC | 33 | 0.8% | + 135.7% | 49 | 59 | 0.7% | + 103.4% | 41 | 46 |
| 29 | TOYOTA | LAND CRUISER | PC | 33 | 0.8% | n/a | 36 | 67 | 0.8% | + 6600.0% | 33 | 53 |
| 30 | LEXUS | NX | PC | 32 | 0.8% | + 28.0% | 43 | 61 | 0.7% | + 38.6% | 39 | 49 |
| 31 | SEAT | IBIZA | PC | 32 | 0.8% | + 77.8% | 78 | 47 | 0.5% | + 30.6% | 54 | 77 |
| 32 | AUDI | Q7 | PC | 31 | 0.7% | – 6.1% | 68 | 49 | 0.6% | – 24.6% | 48 | 34 |
| 33 | PEUGEOT | BOXER | LCV | 31 | 0.7% | + 933.3% | 91 | 43 | 0.5% | + 377.8% | 60 | 97 |
| 34 | VOLKSWAGEN | T-ROC | PC | 31 | 0.7% | + 19.2% | 27 | 71 | 0.8% | + 73.2% | 27 | 35 |
| 35 | HYUNDAI | VENUE | PC | 30 | 0.7% | + 87.5% | 29 | 67 | 0.8% | + 139.3% | 34 | 58 |
| 36 | RENAULT | EXPRESS | PC | 30 | 0.7% | – 23.1% | 23 | 75 | 0.8% | – 14.8% | 23 | 75 |
| 37 | TOYOTA | COROLLA | PC | 29 | 0.7% | + 11.5% | 30 | 66 | 0.7% | + 10.0% | 35 | 36 |
| 38 | SKODA | SCALA | PC | 28 | 0.7% | + 0.0% | 25 | 69 | 0.8% | + 109.1% | 28 | 48 |
| 39 | SSANGYONG | MUSSO GRAND | LCV | 28 | 0.7% | + 2700.0% | 163 | 32 | 0.4% | + 3100.0% | 71 | 191 |
| 40 | LAND ROVER | RANGE ROVER SPORT | PC | 27 | 0.6% | – 6.9% | 65 | 46 | 0.5% | + 15.0% | 55 | 74 |
| 41 | MERCEDES | GLE-CLASS | PC | 26 | 0.6% | – 33.3% | 41 | 56 | 0.6% | – 21.1% | 42 | 39 |
| 42 | PEUGEOT | PARTNER | LCV | 26 | 0.6% | + 85.7% | 60 | 48 | 0.5% | + 140.0% | 52 | 85 |
| 43 | PORSCHE | CAYENNE | PC | 26 | 0.6% | + 23.8% | 66 | 45 | 0.5% | + 66.7% | 56 | 62 |
| 44 | MAZDA | CX-60 | PC | 24 | 0.6% | + 166.7% | 51 | 49 | 0.6% | + 113.0% | 49 | 132 |
| 45 | RENAULT | TRAFIC | LCV | 23 | 0.5% | n/a | 98 | 34 | 0.4% | n/a | 69 | 178 |
| 46 | SUZUKI | JIMNY | PC | 23 | 0.5% | + 43.8% | 53 | 48 | 0.5% | + 33.3% | 53 | 101 |
| 47 | BMW | SERIES 5 | PC | 22 | 0.5% | + 22.2% | 64 | 41 | 0.5% | + 64.0% | 63 | 103 |
| 48 | BMW | X6 | PC | 22 | 0.5% | + 83.3% | 88 | 34 | 0.4% | – 8.1% | 68 | 76 |
| 49 | BYD | SEALION 6 | PC | 22 | 0.5% | new | 8 | 121 | 1.4% | new | 11 | 23 |
| 50 | CITROEN | BERLINGO MULTISPACE | PC | 22 | 0.5% | + 120.0% | 22 | 67 | 0.8% | + 204.5% | 32 | 41 |
| 51 | MERCEDES | GLS-CLASS | PC | 22 | 0.5% | + 0.0% | 62 | 43 | 0.5% | – 20.4% | 58 | 61 |
| 52 | BMW | X7 | PC | 21 | 0.5% | – 27.6% | 33 | 56 | 0.6% | – 5.1% | 43 | 51 |
| 53 | VOLVO | XC90 | PC | 21 | 0.5% | – 68.2% | 46 | 49 | 0.6% | – 57.0% | 47 | 29 |
| 54 | LEXUS | LX500 | PC | 20 | 0.5% | n/a | 55 | 43 | 0.5% | n/a | 59 | 84 |
| 55 | HYUNDAI | ELANTRA | PC | 19 | 0.5% | + 5.6% | 42 | 48 | 0.5% | + 41.2% | 51 | 64 |
| 56 | LAND ROVER | RANGE ROVER | PC | 18 | 0.4% | – 47.1% | 74 | 34 | 0.4% | – 35.8% | 67 | 56 |
| 57 | OPEL | MOVANO | LCV | 18 | 0.4% | + 500.0% | 176 | 21 | 0.2% | + 200.0% | 101 | 155 |
| 58 | PEUGEOT | 3008 | PC | 18 | 0.4% | + 800.0% | 83 | 32 | 0.4% | + 433.3% | 70 | 63 |
| 59 | PEUGEOT | RIFTER | PC | 18 | 0.4% | + 12.5% | 57 | 41 | 0.5% | + 78.3% | 62 | 71 |
| 60 | BMW | SERIES 3 M | PC | 17 | 0.4% | – 50.0% | 69 | 35 | 0.4% | – 7.9% | 66 | 66 |
| 61 | JETOUR | X50 | PC | 17 | 0.4% | new | 80 | 31 | 0.3% | new | 73 | 176 |
| 62 | LAND ROVER | DEFENDER | PC | 17 | 0.4% | + 6.3% | 119 | 25 | 0.3% | – 3.8% | 87 | 104 |
| 63 | MERCEDES | GLC-CLASS | PC | 17 | 0.4% | + 54.5% | 85 | 30 | 0.3% | + 130.8% | 77 | 106 |
| 64 | RENAULT | TRAFIC TOUR | PC | 17 | 0.4% | + 1600.0% | 34 | 52 | 0.6% | + 5100.0% | 46 | 228 |
| 65 | SKODA | FABIA | PC | 17 | 0.4% | + 112.5% | 264 | 18 | 0.2% | – 43.8% | 105 | 47 |
| 66 | BYD | QIN | PC | 16 | 0.4% | n/a | 154 | 20 | 0.2% | + 1900.0% | 103 | 287 |
| 67 | LEXUS | RX350 | PC | 16 | 0.4% | + 6.7% | 56 | 39 | 0.4% | + 11.4% | 65 | 96 |
| 68 | CHERY | TIGGO4 | PC | 15 | 0.4% | + 0.0% | 48 | 41 | 0.5% | + 2.5% | 61 | 60 |
| 69 | CITROEN | C5 AIRCROSS | PC | 15 | 0.4% | + 25.0% | 73 | 31 | 0.3% | + 6.9% | 72 | 72 |
| 70 | LEXUS | RX350H | PC | 15 | 0.4% | + 15.4% | 77 | 30 | 0.3% | + 20.0% | 76 | 100 |
| 71 | RENAULT | KARDIAN | PC | 15 | 0.4% | new | 92 | 27 | 0.3% | new | 84 | 99 |
| 72 | BMW | X1 | PC | 14 | 0.3% | + 27.3% | 109 | 23 | 0.3% | + 21.1% | 91 | 125 |
| 73 | MERCEDES | V-CLASS | PC | 14 | 0.3% | – 30.0% | 86 | 27 | 0.3% | – 3.6% | 82 | 89 |
| 74 | CITROEN | BERLINGO | LCV | 13 | 0.3% | – 31.6% | 84 | 26 | 0.3% | – 7.1% | 85 | 73 |
| 75 | CITROEN | C5 | PC | 13 | 0.3% | + 62.5% | 90 | 25 | 0.3% | + 38.9% | 88 | 133 |
| 76 | MERCEDES | G-CLASS AMG | PC | 13 | 0.3% | + 8.3% | 120 | 21 | 0.2% | – 32.3% | 100 | 117 |
| 77 | MG | ZS | PC | 13 | 0.3% | + 18.2% | 121 | 21 | 0.2% | + 50.0% | 99 | 112 |
| 78 | OPEL | COMBO | LCV | 13 | 0.3% | + 62.5% | 113 | 22 | 0.2% | + 37.5% | 92 | 116 |
| 79 | SUBARU | FORESTER | PC | 13 | 0.3% | – 38.1% | 87 | 26 | 0.3% | – 25.7% | 86 | 91 |
| 80 | TOYOTA | PROACE | LCV | 13 | 0.3% | + 1200.0% | 212 | 15 | 0.2% | + 650.0% | 124 | 166 |
| 81 | VOLKSWAGEN | CADDY | LCV | 13 | 0.3% | n/a | 152 | 18 | 0.2% | n/a | 109 | 270 |
| 82 | CHERY | HIMLA | LCV | 12 | 0.3% | new | 71 | 29 | 0.3% | new | 78 | 264 |
| 83 | FIAT | DOBLO CARGO | LCV | 12 | 0.3% | – 36.8% | 76 | 27 | 0.3% | – 12.9% | 81 | 70 |
| 84 | PEUGEOT | TRAVELLER | PC | 12 | 0.3% | + 1100.0% | 210 | 14 | 0.2% | + 600.0% | 133 | 194 |
| 85 | VOLVO | XC60 | PC | 12 | 0.3% | – 57.1% | 70 | 30 | 0.3% | – 33.3% | 75 | 86 |
| 86 | ZEEKR | 001 | PC | 12 | 0.3% | – 72.7% | 10 | 85 | 1.0% | – 16.7% | 19 | 17 |
| 87 | BMW | X2 | PC | 11 | 0.3% | + 120.0% | 135 | 17 | 0.2% | + 88.9% | 114 | 197 |
| 88 | CITROEN | JUMPER | LCV | 11 | 0.3% | – 26.7% | 102 | 21 | 0.2% | + 16.7% | 96 | 78 |
| 89 | JETOUR | X70 | PC | 11 | 0.3% | + 83.3% | 81 | 25 | 0.3% | + 78.6% | 89 | 149 |
| 90 | MAZDA | EZ-60 | PC | 11 | 0.3% | new | 206 | 13 | 0.1% | new | 140 | 438 |
| 91 | ZEEKR | 7X | PC | 11 | 0.3% | – 83.1% | 32 | 48 | 0.5% | – 55.1% | 50 | 11 |
| 92 | BYD | LEOPARD 3 | PC | 10 | 0.2% | new | 5 | 169 | 1.9% | new | 9 | 9 |
| 93 | CITROEN | C4 | PC | 10 | 0.2% | + 900.0% | 89 | 22 | 0.2% | + 340.0% | 93 | 126 |
| 94 | FORD | TRANSIT | LCV | 10 | 0.2% | – 60.0% | 129 | 17 | 0.2% | – 43.3% | 113 | 109 |
| 95 | LEXUS | LM | PC | 10 | 0.2% | + 150.0% | 202 | 12 | 0.1% | + 20.0% | 146 | 161 |
| 96 | NISSAN | JUKE | PC | 10 | 0.2% | – 71.4% | 63 | 30 | 0.3% | – 53.8% | 74 | 57 |
| 97 | RENAULT | TALIANT | PC | 10 | 0.2% | – 73.7% | 97 | 21 | 0.2% | – 67.7% | 95 | 31 |
| 98 | ZEEKR | 9X | PC | 10 | 0.2% | new | 127 | 18 | 0.2% | new | 110 | 448 |
| 99 | BMW | SERIES 7 | PC | 9 | 0.2% | + 200.0% | 128 | 16 | 0.2% | + 166.7% | 117 | 168 |
| 100 | HONDA | E-NP2 | PC | 9 | 0.2% | – 43.8% | 39 | 40 | 0.4% | + 60.0% | 64 | 30 |
| 101 | MERCEDES | SPRINTER | LCV | 9 | 0.2% | + 80.0% | 148 | 14 | 0.2% | + 75.0% | 131 | 153 |
| 102 | PORSCHE | MACAN | PC | 9 | 0.2% | – 55.0% | 108 | 19 | 0.2% | – 56.8% | 104 | 80 |
| 103 | TOYOTA | C-HR | PC | 9 | 0.2% | – 60.9% | 139 | 15 | 0.2% | – 64.3% | 120 | 88 |
| 104 | TOYOTA | PROACE CITY | LCV | 9 | 0.2% | + 350.0% | 123 | 17 | 0.2% | + 0.0% | 112 | 107 |
| 105 | AUDI | Q5 | PC | 8 | 0.2% | + 300.0% | 164 | 11 | 0.1% | + 83.3% | 152 | 148 |
| 106 | BMW | XM | PC | 8 | 0.2% | + 300.0% | 153 | 12 | 0.1% | + 140.0% | 149 | 195 |
| 107 | BYD | SONG PLUS | PC | 8 | 0.2% | – 93.0% | 15 | 71 | 0.8% | – 73.8% | 26 | 4 |
| 108 | CHERY | TIGGO2 | PC | 8 | 0.2% | + 100.0% | 142 | 13 | 0.1% | + 44.4% | 138 | 139 |
| 109 | CITROEN | JUMPY SPACETOURER | PC | 8 | 0.2% | n/a | 143 | 13 | 0.1% | n/a | 139 | 248 |
| 110 | OPEL | CROSSLAND | PC | 8 | 0.2% | – 68.0% | 162 | 12 | 0.1% | – 78.6% | 141 | 67 |
| 111 | PEUGEOT | 5008 | PC | 8 | 0.2% | n/a | 122 | 16 | 0.2% | n/a | 118 | 193 |
| 112 | AVATR | 07 | PC | 7 | 0.2% | new | 94 | 18 | 0.2% | new | 108 | 157 |
| 113 | BYD | TANG | PC | 7 | 0.2% | – 12.5% | 61 | 28 | 0.3% | + 100.0% | 79 | 45 |
| 114 | FIAT | DUCATO | LCV | 7 | 0.2% | + 75.0% | 79 | 21 | 0.2% | + 162.5% | 97 | 79 |
| 115 | FORD | KUGA | PC | 7 | 0.2% | – 30.0% | 111 | 16 | 0.2% | – 20.0% | 115 | 118 |
| 116 | FORD | RANGER | LCV | 7 | 0.2% | + 133.3% | 144 | 12 | 0.1% | + 140.0% | 147 | 172 |
| 117 | JEEP | AVENGER | PC | 7 | 0.2% | – 65.0% | 146 | 12 | 0.1% | – 53.8% | 143 | 114 |
| 118 | JETOUR | T1 | PC | 7 | 0.2% | new | 118 | 15 | 0.2% | new | 127 | 283 |
| 119 | MERCEDES | GLE-CLASS AMG | PC | 7 | 0.2% | + 40.0% | 147 | 12 | 0.1% | + 20.0% | 144 | 144 |
| 120 | MINI | MINI COUNTRYMAN | PC | 7 | 0.2% | + 133.3% | 149 | 12 | 0.1% | + 100.0% | 145 | 158 |
| 121 | MITSUBISHI | ECLIPSE CROSS | PC | 7 | 0.2% | – 58.8% | 150 | 12 | 0.1% | – 63.6% | 142 | 102 |
| 122 | SUZUKI | SWIFT | PC | 7 | 0.2% | – 12.5% | 99 | 18 | 0.2% | + 5.9% | 106 | 131 |
| 123 | VOLKSWAGEN | CRAFTER | LCV | 7 | 0.2% | – 12.5% | 214 | 9 | 0.1% | – 30.8% | 158 | 93 |
| 124 | VOLKSWAGEN | TRANSPORTER | LCV | 7 | 0.2% | + 133.3% | 181 | 10 | 0.1% | + 0.0% | 157 | 210 |
| 125 | VOLVO | XC40 | PC | 7 | 0.2% | – 12.5% | 100 | 18 | 0.2% | + 20.0% | 107 | 134 |
| 126 | AUDI | A6 LIMOUSINE | PC | 6 | 0.1% | + 100.0% | 134 | 12 | 0.1% | + 200.0% | 148 | 192 |
| 127 | BMW | SERIES 3 | PC | 6 | 0.1% | – 87.5% | 117 | 14 | 0.2% | – 81.8% | 128 | 38 |
| 128 | CITROEN | C3 AIRCROSS | PC | 6 | 0.1% | new | 110 | 15 | 0.2% | new | 125 | 219 |
| 129 | HYUNDAI | KONA | PC | 6 | 0.1% | – 33.3% | 243 | 7 | 0.1% | – 63.2% | 168 | 113 |
| 130 | LAND ROVER | RANGE ROVER EVOQUE | PC | 6 | 0.1% | – 68.4% | 131 | 13 | 0.1% | – 59.4% | 136 | 115 |
| 131 | LEXUS | GX | PC | 6 | 0.1% | – 33.3% | 105 | 16 | 0.2% | + 6.7% | 116 | 152 |
| 132 | OPEL | COMBO TOUR | PC | 6 | 0.1% | + 100.0% | 114 | 15 | 0.2% | + 15.4% | 122 | 120 |
| 133 | OPEL | FRONTERA | PC | 6 | 0.1% | new | 107 | 16 | 0.2% | new | 119 | 334 |
| 134 | PEUGEOT | 2008 | PC | 6 | 0.1% | – 64.7% | 96 | 17 | 0.2% | – 34.6% | 111 | 87 |
| 135 | SKODA | KAMIQ | PC | 6 | 0.1% | – 62.5% | 132 | 13 | 0.1% | – 35.0% | 135 | 94 |
| 136 | VOLKSWAGEN | AMAROK | LCV | 6 | 0.1% | – 14.3% | 213 | 8 | 0.1% | – 27.3% | 164 | 209 |
| 137 | VOLKSWAGEN | GOLF | PC | 6 | 0.1% | – 50.0% | 125 | 14 | 0.2% | – 17.6% | 130 | 119 |
| 138 | BYD | SEALION 7 | PC | 5 | 0.1% | – 83.3% | 28 | 44 | 0.5% | – 4.3% | 57 | 13 |
| 139 | CUPRA | TERRAMAR | PC | 5 | 0.1% | new | 167 | 8 | 0.1% | new | 162 | 156 |
| 140 | GREAT WALL | HAVAL H6 | PC | 5 | 0.1% | + 150.0% | 103 | 15 | 0.2% | + 650.0% | 126 | 256 |
| 141 | LEXUS | ES300H | PC | 5 | 0.1% | – 44.4% | 104 | 15 | 0.2% | – 16.7% | 123 | 127 |
| 142 | MG | HS | PC | 5 | 0.1% | – 50.0% | 161 | 9 | 0.1% | – 35.7% | 159 | 130 |
| 143 | OPEL | GRANDLAND | PC | 5 | 0.1% | + 400.0% | 175 | 8 | 0.1% | + 300.0% | 166 | 285 |
| 144 | PEUGEOT | 408 | PC | 5 | 0.1% | – 64.3% | 75 | 21 | 0.2% | – 41.7% | 98 | 81 |
| 145 | SUBARU | XV CROSSTREK | PC | 5 | 0.1% | + 0.0% | 116 | 14 | 0.2% | + 40.0% | 132 | 170 |
| 146 | TOYOTA | COROLLA CROSS | PC | 5 | 0.1% | – 76.2% | 67 | 24 | 0.3% | – 60.0% | 90 | 69 |
| 147 | AUDI | Q4 | PC | 4 | 0.1% | – 90.5% | 72 | 20 | 0.2% | – 75.0% | 102 | 25 |
| 148 | AUDI | Q5 S | PC | 4 | 0.1% | n/a | 220 | 5 | 0.1% | n/a | 190 | 337 |
| 149 | BYD | SONG | PC | 4 | 0.1% | – 69.2% | 191 | 6 | 0.1% | – 76.0% | 173 | 83 |
| 150 | CITROEN | C3 | PC | 4 | 0.1% | – 90.2% | 95 | 15 | 0.2% | – 74.1% | 121 | 111 |
| 151 | CUPRA | FORMENTOR | PC | 4 | 0.1% | – 75.0% | 137 | 10 | 0.1% | – 67.7% | 156 | 122 |
| 152 | DENZA | N8 | PC | 4 | 0.1% | new | 194 | 6 | 0.1% | new | 180 | – |
| 153 | HYUNDAI | PALISADE | PC | 4 | 0.1% | + 33.3% | 130 | 11 | 0.1% | + 37.5% | 154 | 201 |
| 154 | JETOUR | T2 | PC | 4 | 0.1% | new | 159 | 8 | 0.1% | new | 163 | 198 |
| 155 | LAND ROVER | RANGE ROVER VELAR | PC | 4 | 0.1% | + 100.0% | 172 | 7 | 0.1% | + 250.0% | 170 | 185 |
| 156 | LYNK&CO | 900 | PC | 4 | 0.1% | new | 205 | 6 | 0.1% | new | 179 | 363 |
| 157 | PEUGEOT | LANDTREK | LCV | 4 | 0.1% | – 33.3% | 11 | 73 | 0.8% | + 180.8% | 25 | 190 |
| 158 | SUBARU | OUTBACK | PC | 4 | 0.1% | – 66.7% | 151 | 9 | 0.1% | – 59.1% | 160 | 137 |
| 159 | VOLKSWAGEN | CARAVELLE | PC | 4 | 0.1% | + 300.0% | 124 | 12 | 0.1% | + 1100.0% | 150 | 234 |
| 160 | VOLKSWAGEN | TRANSPORTER KOMBI | PC | 4 | 0.1% | n/a | 182 | 7 | 0.1% | n/a | 172 | 365 |
| 161 | XIAOMI | YU7 | PC | 4 | 0.1% | new | 58 | 27 | 0.3% | new | 83 | 98 |
| 162 | ALFA ROMEO | JUNIOR | PC | 3 | 0.1% | new | 185 | 5 | 0.1% | new | 187 | 212 |
| 163 | BYD | YUAN | PC | 3 | 0.1% | – 88.9% | 101 | 13 | 0.1% | – 78.7% | 134 | 40 |
| 164 | BYD | YUAN UP | PC | 3 | 0.1% | – 66.7% | 20 | 54 | 0.6% | + 285.7% | 44 | 28 |
| 165 | FARIZON | V6E | LCV | 3 | 0.1% | new | 195 | 5 | 0.1% | new | 192 | 420 |
| 166 | FIAT | ULYSSE | PC | 3 | 0.1% | – 89.7% | 236 | 4 | 0.0% | – 90.0% | 195 | 142 |
| 167 | FORD | TRANSIT CUSTOM | PC | 3 | 0.1% | + 50.0% | 157 | 7 | 0.1% | + 40.0% | 169 | 165 |
| 168 | GEELY | GALAXY STARSHIP 7 | PC | 3 | 0.1% | new | 158 | 7 | 0.1% | new | 171 | 306 |
| 169 | ISUZU | D-MAX | LCV | 3 | 0.1% | n/a | 199 | 5 | 0.1% | n/a | 191 | 346 |
| 170 | LEXUS | RX500H | PC | 3 | 0.1% | n/a | 203 | 5 | 0.1% | n/a | 189 | 295 |
| 171 | MERCEDES | E-CLASS | PC | 3 | 0.1% | + 0.0% | 207 | 5 | 0.1% | + 0.0% | 184 | 186 |
| 172 | MERCEDES | GLA-CLASS | PC | 3 | 0.1% | + 200.0% | – | 3 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 205 | 180 |
| 173 | MITSUBISHI | PAJERO SPORT | PC | 3 | 0.1% | – 75.0% | 106 | 13 | 0.1% | – 35.0% | 137 | 123 |
| 174 | OPEL | VIVARO | LCV | 3 | 0.1% | n/a | 138 | 9 | 0.1% | + 125.0% | 161 | 145 |
| 175 | VOLKSWAGEN | CADDY KOMBI | PC | 3 | 0.1% | n/a | 180 | 6 | 0.1% | + 500.0% | 178 | 324 |
| 176 | VOLKSWAGEN | ID UNYX | PC | 3 | 0.1% | – 93.8% | 14 | 67 | 0.8% | + 6.3% | 31 | 3 |
| 177 | VOLKSWAGEN | PASSAT | PC | 3 | 0.1% | + 200.0% | 126 | 11 | 0.1% | + 1000.0% | 153 | 181 |
| 178 | AUDI | A6 RS | PC | 2 | 0.0% | – 33.3% | – | 2 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 220 | 203 |
| 179 | AUDI | Q8 S | PC | 2 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | 222 | 3 | 0.0% | – 57.1% | 203 | 167 |
| 180 | BMW | SERIES 5 M5 COUPE | PC | 2 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | – | 2 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | 221 | 213 |
| 181 | BMW | SERIES 7 M | PC | 2 | 0.0% | n/a | 190 | 4 | 0.0% | n/a | 198 | 327 |
| 182 | BYD | LEOPARD 7 | PC | 2 | 0.0% | new | 166 | 5 | 0.1% | new | 193 | – |
| 183 | BYD | SEALION 5 | PC | 2 | 0.0% | new | 50 | 27 | 0.3% | new | 80 | 32 |
| 184 | CHERY | TIGGO7 | PC | 2 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 155 | 6 | 0.1% | + 200.0% | 175 | 162 |
| 185 | CHERY | TIGGO9 | PC | 2 | 0.0% | new | – | 2 | 0.0% | new | 250 | 472 |
| 186 | CITROEN | JUMPY | LCV | 2 | 0.0% | – 60.0% | 193 | 4 | 0.0% | – 71.4% | 196 | 182 |
| 187 | DENZA | D9 | PC | 2 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | – | 2 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | 239 | 330 |
| 188 | FORD | RANGER | PC | 2 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | – | 2 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | 244 | 408 |
| 189 | HYUNDAI | I10 | PC | 2 | 0.0% | – 75.0% | 171 | 5 | 0.1% | – 77.3% | 181 | 124 |
| 190 | HYUNDAI | STARIA | LCV | 2 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 2 | 0.0% | n/a | 234 | 294 |
| 191 | JETOUR | X90 | PC | 2 | 0.0% | new | – | 2 | 0.0% | new | 245 | 435 |
| 192 | JMC | DADAO | PC | 2 | 0.0% | new | – | 2 | 0.0% | new | 254 | – |
| 193 | LEXUS | LBX | PC | 2 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 160 | 6 | 0.1% | + 20.0% | 174 | 150 |
| 194 | LIXIANG | L7 | PC | 2 | 0.0% | – 33.3% | 204 | 4 | 0.0% | – 20.0% | 197 | 241 |
| 195 | LIXIANG | L9 | PC | 2 | 0.0% | new | – | 2 | 0.0% | new | 235 | 298 |
| 196 | MAXUS | DANA V1 | PC | 2 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 2 | 0.0% | n/a | 246 | 436 |
| 197 | MAXUS | T60 | LCV | 2 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 253 | 3 | 0.0% | – 62.5% | 208 | 261 |
| 198 | MERCEDES | CLE-CLASS | PC | 2 | 0.0% | new | – | 2 | 0.0% | new | 233 | 284 |
| 199 | MERCEDES | VITO | LCV | 2 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 2 | 0.0% | n/a | 240 | 354 |
| 200 | MINI | MINI | PC | 2 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | 174 | 5 | 0.1% | + 400.0% | 186 | 211 |
| 201 | OPEL | ZAFIRA | PC | 2 | 0.0% | n/a | 177 | 5 | 0.1% | + 400.0% | 185 | 202 |
| 202 | PEUGEOT | EXPERT | LCV | 2 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 115 | 11 | 0.1% | + 37.5% | 151 | 141 |
| 203 | PORSCHE | 911 | PC | 2 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 178 | 5 | 0.1% | + 0.0% | 183 | 184 |
| 204 | TOYOTA | HIGHLANDER | PC | 2 | 0.0% | – 95.2% | 93 | 14 | 0.2% | – 82.9% | 129 | 52 |
| 205 | VOLVO | EX30 | PC | 2 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | – | 2 | 0.0% | – 90.5% | 214 | 128 |
| 206 | AITO | M9 | PC | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 270 | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 280 | 355 |
| 207 | ALFA ROMEO | GIULIA | PC | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 288 | 397 |
| 208 | ASTON MARTIN | DBX | PC | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | – | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 289 | 398 |
| 209 | AUDI | A5 S | PC | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 282 | 367 |
| 210 | AUDI | A7 RS | PC | 1 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | – | 1 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | 275 | 311 |
| 211 | AUDI | S8 | PC | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | – | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 270 | 282 |
| 212 | AVATR | 06 | PC | 1 | 0.0% | new | 223 | 2 | 0.0% | new | 248 | 459 |
| 213 | AVATR | 12 | PC | 1 | 0.0% | new | 188 | 3 | 0.0% | new | 209 | 290 |
| 214 | BENTLEY | CONTINENTAL | PC | 1 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | – | 1 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | 276 | 312 |
| 215 | BMW | IX1 | PC | 1 | 0.0% | – 80.0% | 224 | 2 | 0.0% | – 77.8% | 215 | 129 |
| 216 | BMW | SERIES 4 | PC | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 225 | 2 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 237 | 318 |
| 217 | BMW | X3 | PC | 1 | 0.0% | – 88.9% | 165 | 4 | 0.0% | – 80.0% | 194 | 108 |
| 218 | BYD | LEOPARD 8 | PC | 1 | 0.0% | new | 228 | 2 | 0.0% | new | 238 | 329 |
| 219 | BYD | SEAGULL | PC | 1 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 136 | 7 | 0.1% | – 30.0% | 167 | 95 |
| 220 | BYD | XIA | PC | 1 | 0.0% | new | 229 | 2 | 0.0% | new | 242 | 383 |
| 221 | BYD | YANGWANG U7 | PC | 1 | 0.0% | new | 230 | 2 | 0.0% | new | 243 | 384 |
| 222 | CHERY | FX | PC | 1 | 0.0% | new | – | 1 | 0.0% | new | 262 | 252 |
| 223 | CHERY | TIGGO | PC | 1 | 0.0% | new | – | 1 | 0.0% | new | 296 | 471 |
| 224 | CHERY | TIGGO8 | PC | 1 | 0.0% | new | – | 1 | 0.0% | new | 291 | 404 |
| 225 | DS | DS7 | PC | 1 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 234 | 2 | 0.0% | – 60.0% | 224 | 227 |
| 226 | FORD | NEW PUMA | PC | 1 | 0.0% | – 92.3% | 156 | 5 | 0.1% | – 73.7% | 182 | 147 |
| 227 | FORD | TRANSIT COURIER | PC | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 196 | 3 | 0.0% | n/a | 210 | 305 |
| 228 | GEELY | GALAXY M9 | PC | 1 | 0.0% | new | – | 1 | 0.0% | new | 300 | – |
| 229 | GREAT WALL | WINGLE | LCV | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 145 | 6 | 0.1% | n/a | 177 | 223 |
| 230 | HONDA | E-NS1 | PC | 1 | 0.0% | – 90.0% | 112 | 10 | 0.1% | – 50.0% | 155 | 14 |
| 231 | IVECO | DAILY | LCV | 1 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 244 | 2 | 0.0% | – 33.3% | 222 | 216 |
| 232 | JAC | T8 | LCV | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 245 | 2 | 0.0% | – 81.8% | 232 | 278 |
| 233 | JEEP | WRANGLER | PC | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 269 | 273 |
| 234 | LAND ROVER | DISCOVERY | PC | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 247 | 2 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | 226 | 237 |
| 235 | LEAPMOTOR | B10 | PC | 1 | 0.0% | new | – | 1 | 0.0% | new | 301 | – |
| 236 | LEXUS | RZ | PC | 1 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 250 | 2 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 229 | 257 |
| 237 | MAN | TGE | LCV | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 264 | 260 |
| 238 | MASERATI | GRECALE | PC | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 252 | 2 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 225 | 235 |
| 239 | MERCEDES | CLE-CLASS AMG | PC | 1 | 0.0% | new | – | 1 | 0.0% | new | 272 | 293 |
| 240 | MERCEDES | EQS SUV MAYBACH | PC | 1 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | – | 1 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 283 | 372 |
| 241 | MERCEDES | G-CLASS | PC | 1 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | 208 | 3 | 0.0% | – 70.0% | 201 | 136 |
| 242 | MERCEDES | S-CLASS | PC | 1 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | 255 | 2 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 223 | 225 |
| 243 | MERCEDES | SPRINTER KOMBI | PC | 1 | 0.0% | – 80.0% | 256 | 2 | 0.0% | – 71.4% | 227 | 238 |
| 244 | MG | ONE | PC | 1 | 0.0% | – 80.0% | 259 | 2 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | 218 | 174 |
| 245 | OPEL | MOKKA | PC | 1 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 209 | 3 | 0.0% | + 50.0% | 206 | 183 |
| 246 | SEAT | LEON | PC | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | – | 1 | 0.0% | – 83.3% | 255 | 214 |
| 247 | SHENLAN | S07 | PC | 1 | 0.0% | new | 262 | 2 | 0.0% | new | 251 | 520 |
| 248 | SKODA | ENYAQ | PC | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 263 | 2 | 0.0% | n/a | 231 | 277 |
| 249 | TOYOTA | BZ3X | PC | 1 | 0.0% | new | 133 | 8 | 0.1% | new | 165 | 281 |
| 250 | TOYOTA | BZ5 | PC | 1 | 0.0% | new | – | 1 | 0.0% | new | 287 | 392 |
| 251 | TOYOTA | SEQUOIA | PC | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | – | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 295 | 417 |
| 252 | ZEEKR | X | PC | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 217 | 3 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 200 | 121 |
Source: Manufacturers
The Dacia Bigster holds a record 5.8% of its home market in February.
The Romanian new car market continues on its mediocre start of the year with February off a further -24.3% year-on-year to 8,965 units. The year-to-date tally is down -28.9% to 16,892. Dacia (-52.3%) halves its year-ago volume to 18.8% share vs. 29.8% a year ago in February 2025. Toyota (-11.4%) and Skoda (-1.5%) follow and gain share year-on-year while Volkswagen (-25.1%) matches the market and complete a Top 4 unchanged on last month. The performer of the month is newcomer Chery, launched last July, already breaking into the Top 10 with 3.5% share. BYD is also impressive at #12 and 2.8% share but is down from a record #9 hit last month.
Over in the models charts, the Dacia Duster (-52%) holds onto the first place with 6% share, its lowest since last October. The Dacia Bigster (+1811.1%) celebrates one year in market with a record 2nd place and 5.8% share, a new all time high as well and smashing its previous best of 3.8% reached last November. The Toyota Corolla (+36.2%) defies the negative surroundings and climbs two spots on January to score its first ever Romanian podium finish. The Skoda Octavia (-13.9%) drops two ranks to #4, followed by an imploding Dacia Logan (-66.2%) at #5, the nameplate’s lowest ever ranking. The Skoda Kodiaq (+68.4%), Ford Puma (+65.6%) and Toyota Yaris Cross (+12.6%) shine below. The best-selling recent launch is the Chery Tiggo 4 at #14 ahead of the BYD Dolphin Surf at #20 and the Chery Tiggo 8 at #26.
Previous month: Romania January 2026: Dacia Duster and Skoda Octavia top mediocre market (-33.5%)
One year ago: Romania February 2025: Dacia Duster takes charge, Bigster lands
Full February 2026 Top 52 All brands and Top 276 All models below.
Romania February 2026 – brands:
| Pos | Brand | Feb-26 | % | /25 | Jan | 2026 | % | /25 | Pos | FY25 |
| 1 | Dacia | 1,685 | 18.8% | – 52.3% | 1 | 3,127 | 18.5% | – 58.5% | 1 | 1 |
| 2 | Toyota | 900 | 10.0% | – 11.4% | 2 | 1,664 | 9.9% | – 15.3% | 2 | 2 |
| 3 | Skoda | 865 | 9.6% | – 1.5% | 3 | 1,555 | 9.2% | – 12.1% | 3 | 4 |
| 4 | Volkswagen | 631 | 7.0% | – 25.1% | 4 | 1,287 | 7.6% | – 23.4% | 4 | 5 |
| 5 | Renault | 583 | 6.5% | – 21.6% | 10 | 838 | 5.0% | – 43.0% | 5 | 3 |
| 6 | Ford | 427 | 4.8% | – 30.6% | 8 | 803 | 4.8% | – 25.3% | 7 | 7 |
| 7 | Mercedes | 391 | 4.4% | – 13.9% | 5 | 813 | 4.8% | – 13.6% | 6 | 8 |
| 8 | Hyundai | 386 | 4.3% | – 31.4% | 6 | 776 | 4.6% | – 37.4% | 8 | 6 |
| 9 | BMW | 381 | 4.2% | – 13.0% | 7 | 766 | 4.5% | – 13.4% | 9 | 9 |
| 10 | Chery | 318 | 3.5% | new | 15 | 530 | 3.1% | new | 12 | 31 |
| 11 | Suzuki | 285 | 3.2% | – 26.5% | 11 | 535 | 3.2% | – 27.9% | 11 | 10 |
| 12 | BYD | 252 | 2.8% | n/a | 9 | 564 | 3.3% | + 56300.0% | 10 | 23 |
| 13 | Peugeot | 250 | 2.8% | – 18.6% | 14 | 465 | 2.8% | + 21.7% | 13 | 15 |
| 14 | Audi | 226 | 2.5% | – 9.2% | 12 | 458 | 2.7% | – 2.3% | 14 | 13 |
| 15 | Tesla | 192 | 2.1% | + 242.9% | 13 | 424 | 2.5% | + 134.3% | 15 | 20 |
| 16 | MG | 149 | 1.7% | – 29.7% | 19 | 241 | 1.4% | – 45.7% | 19 | 11 |
| 17 | Mazda | 145 | 1.6% | – 9.4% | 18 | 266 | 1.6% | – 14.5% | 18 | 16 |
| 18 | Kia | 130 | 1.5% | – 33.7% | 16 | 273 | 1.6% | – 33.1% | 16 | 12 |
| 19 | Volvo | 126 | 1.4% | + 12.5% | 17 | 269 | 1.6% | + 24.0% | 17 | 17 |
| 20 | SsangYong/KG Mobility | 74 | 0.8% | – 65.7% | 22 | 133 | 0.8% | – 69.6% | 22 | 14 |
| 21 | Cupra | 69 | 0.8% | – 5.5% | 20 | 148 | 0.9% | + 0.0% | 20 | 19 |
| 22 | Geely | 68 | 0.8% | + 119.4% | 23 | 125 | 0.7% | + 101.6% | 23 | 27 |
| 23 | Nissan | 67 | 0.7% | + 17.5% | 21 | 134 | 0.8% | – 1.5% | 21 | 21 |
| 24 | Citroen | 40 | 0.4% | – 75.3% | 31 | 57 | 0.3% | – 74.1% | 26 | 18 |
| 25 | Land Rover | 36 | 0.4% | – 35.7% | 33 | 50 | 0.3% | – 51.5% | 28 | 28 |
| 26 | Honda | 32 | 0.4% | – 36.0% | 27 | 57 | 0.3% | – 38.7% | 27 | 24 |
| 27 | Leapmotor | 29 | 0.3% | – 44.2% | 24 | 68 | 0.4% | – 31.3% | 24 | 35 |
| 28 | Seat | 28 | 0.3% | + 55.6% | 35 | 42 | 0.2% | + 10.5% | 29 | 33 |
| 29 | Porsche | 26 | 0.3% | – 50.9% | 25 | 61 | 0.4% | – 29.9% | 25 | 29 |
| 30 | Fiat | 20 | 0.2% | – 9.1% | 28 | 41 | 0.2% | – 16.3% | 30 | 26 |
| 31 | Jaecoo | 20 | 0.2% | new | 39 | 27 | 0.2% | new | 36 | 66 |
| 32 | Lexus | 20 | 0.2% | – 4.8% | 29 | 40 | 0.2% | – 29.8% | 32 | 32 |
| 33 | Mitsubishi | 19 | 0.2% | + 58.3% | 37 | 29 | 0.2% | + 3.6% | 34 | 30 |
| 34 | Mini | 18 | 0.2% | – 45.5% | 36 | 31 | 0.2% | – 52.3% | 33 | 34 |
| 35 | Omoda | 18 | 0.2% | new | 38 | 27 | 0.2% | new | 37 | 59 |
| 36 | Jeep | 10 | 0.1% | – 89.9% | 30 | 28 | 0.2% | – 87.0% | 35 | 25 |
| 37 | Opel | 10 | 0.1% | – 66.7% | 26 | 41 | 0.2% | – 10.9% | 31 | 22 |
| 38 | Subaru | 9 | 0.1% | + 80.0% | 40 | 16 | 0.1% | + 77.8% | 39 | 38 |
| 39 | Lamborghini | 5 | 0.1% | + 150.0% | 49 | 6 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | 42 | 42 |
| 40 | Lynk & Co | 5 | 0.1% | + 66.7% | 34 | 19 | 0.1% | + 280.0% | 38 | 40 |
| 41 | Alfa Romeo | 3 | 0.0% | – 88.9% | 41 | 9 | 0.1% | – 80.0% | 41 | 36 |
| 42 | BAIC | 3 | 0.0% | + 200.0% | 48 | 4 | 0.0% | – 33.3% | 44 | 43 |
| 43 | Zeekr | 3 | 0.0% | new | 51 | 4 | 0.0% | new | 47 | – |
| 44 | Maserati | 2 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 44 | 5 | 0.0% | + 66.7% | 43 | 48 |
| 45 | Rolls-Royce | 2 | 0.0% | – 33.3% | 50 | 3 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 49 | 45 |
| 46 | Aston Martin | 1 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 45 | 3 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 48 | 49 |
| 47 | Bentley | 1 | 0.0% | – 88.9% | 42 | 4 | 0.0% | – 75.0% | 45 | 41 |
| 48 | DFM | 1 | 0.0% | new | – | 1 | 0.0% | new | 55 | – |
| 49 | DFSK | 1 | 0.0% | – 92.3% | 43 | 4 | 0.0% | – 83.3% | 46 | 39 |
| 50 | Forthing | 1 | 0.0% | new | – | 1 | 0.0% | new | 54 | – |
| 51 | JAC | 1 | 0.0% | new | – | 1 | 0.0% | new | 53 | – |
| 52 | McLaren | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 52 | 56 |
Romania February 2026 – models:
| Pos | Model | Feb-26 | % | /25 | Jan | 2026 | % | /25 | Pos | FY25 |
| 1 | Dacia Duster | 535 | 6.0% | – 52.0% | 1 | 1,183 | 7.0% | – 47.0% | 1 | 2 |
| 2 | Dacia Bigster | 516 | 5.8% | + 1811.1% | 6 | 755 | 4.5% | + 2696.3% | 2 | 8 |
| 3 | Toyota Corolla | 395 | 4.4% | + 36.2% | 5 | 649 | 3.8% | + 26.0% | 4 | 5 |
| 4 | Skoda Octavia | 365 | 4.1% | – 13.9% | 2 | 669 | 4.0% | – 22.9% | 3 | 6 |
| 5 | Dacia Logan | 361 | 4.0% | – 66.2% | 3 | 640 | 3.8% | – 71.1% | 5 | 1 |
| 6 | Renault Clio | 302 | 3.4% | + 2.4% | 16 | 414 | 2.5% | – 20.4% | 7 | 4 |
| 7 | Hyundai Tucson | 199 | 2.2% | – 13.1% | 7 | 413 | 2.4% | – 24.2% | 8 | 7 |
| 8 | Toyota Yaris Cross | 188 | 2.1% | + 12.6% | 4 | 450 | 2.7% | + 21.0% | 6 | 11 |
| 9 | Skoda Kodiaq | 160 | 1.8% | + 68.4% | 14 | 273 | 1.6% | + 17.7% | 11 | 26 |
| 10 | Ford Puma | 149 | 1.7% | + 65.6% | 10 | 284 | 1.7% | + 44.2% | 9 | 13 |
| 11 | Suzuki Vitara | 142 | 1.6% | + 2.2% | 13 | 261 | 1.5% | – 6.1% | 12 | 20 |
| 12 | Peugeot 3008 | 135 | 1.5% | + 66.7% | 21 | 232 | 1.4% | + 114.8% | 13 | 53 |
| 13 | Tesla Model Y | 135 | 1.5% | + 1127.3% | 8 | 278 | 1.6% | + 531.8% | 10 | 68 |
| 14 | Chery Tiggo 4 | 132 | 1.5% | new | 37 | 190 | 1.1% | new | 22 | 213 |
| 15 | Ford Kuga | 122 | 1.4% | – 62.6% | 19 | 221 | 1.3% | – 57.7% | 15 | 12 |
| 16 | VW Taigo | 121 | 1.3% | + 36.0% | 33 | 192 | 1.1% | – 15.0% | 21 | 25 |
| 17 | Suzuki SX4 S-Cross | 105 | 1.2% | – 37.1% | 23 | 199 | 1.2% | – 35.8% | 18 | 21 |
| 18 | Dacia Jogger | 104 | 1.2% | – 63.9% | 11 | 230 | 1.4% | – 61.3% | 14 | 9 |
| 19 | VW Polo | 104 | 1.2% | + 136.4% | 27 | 190 | 1.1% | + 66.7% | 23 | 40 |
| 20 | BYD Dolphin Surf | 100 | 1.1% | new | 15 | 212 | 1.3% | new | 16 | 119 |
| 21 | Audi Q5 | 90 | 1.0% | + 246.2% | 45 | 142 | 0.8% | + 246.3% | 35 | 50 |
| 22 | Kia Sportage | 90 | 1.0% | – 13.5% | 17 | 197 | 1.2% | – 5.3% | 19 | 18 |
| 23 | Toyota Yaris | 90 | 1.0% | + 13.9% | 39 | 147 | 0.9% | – 28.3% | 33 | 30 |
| 24 | Dacia Sandero | 89 | 1.0% | – 87.1% | 25 | 175 | 1.0% | – 88.3% | 25 | 3 |
| 25 | Toyota RAV4 | 89 | 1.0% | – 70.8% | 26 | 175 | 1.0% | – 67.4% | 26 | 10 |
| 26 | Chery Tiggo 8 | 84 | 0.9% | new | 32 | 155 | 0.9% | new | 31 | 136 |
| 27 | Hyundai Kona | 84 | 0.9% | – 11.6% | 24 | 172 | 1.0% | – 4.4% | 28 | 14 |
| 28 | Skoda Scala | 83 | 0.9% | – 9.8% | 34 | 152 | 0.9% | – 5.0% | 32 | 24 |
| 29 | VW Golf | 82 | 0.9% | – 54.7% | 12 | 203 | 1.2% | – 45.3% | 17 | 16 |
| 30 | Mercedes GLE | 81 | 0.9% | – 11.0% | 29 | 160 | 0.9% | – 19.2% | 29 | 33 |
| 31 | Dacia Spring | 80 | 0.9% | – 76.7% | 35 | 144 | 0.9% | – 85.1% | 34 | 22 |
| 32 | VW Tiguan | 79 | 0.9% | – 44.0% | 18 | 183 | 1.1% | – 36.7% | 24 | 15 |
| 33 | Mercedes GLC | 75 | 0.8% | – 8.5% | 20 | 173 | 1.0% | – 9.9% | 27 | 34 |
| 34 | BMW X3 | 74 | 0.8% | + 27.6% | 61 | 109 | 0.6% | + 17.2% | 44 | 57 |
| 35 | VW T-Roc | 74 | 0.8% | + 111.4% | 60 | 110 | 0.7% | + 22.2% | 43 | 66 |
| 36 | Renault Captur | 73 | 0.8% | – 24.0% | 93 | 92 | 0.5% | – 66.9% | 51 | 17 |
| 37 | Audi Q3 | 72 | 0.8% | + 44.0% | 77 | 98 | 0.6% | + 42.0% | 49 | 95 |
| 38 | Chery Tiggo 7 | 69 | 0.8% | new | 36 | 128 | 0.8% | new | 38 | 109 |
| 39 | Skoda Superb | 69 | 0.8% | + 7.8% | 31 | 141 | 0.8% | – 2.1% | 37 | 37 |
| 40 | Toyota C-HR | 69 | 0.8% | + 1.5% | 48 | 115 | 0.7% | – 15.4% | 40 | 19 |
| 41 | Ford Transit Custom | 66 | 0.7% | – 17.5% | 54 | 105 | 0.6% | – 13.2% | 47 | 63 |
| 42 | Peugeot 2008 | 64 | 0.7% | – 38.5% | 22 | 158 | 0.9% | + 37.4% | 30 | 56 |
| 43 | Skoda Karoq | 64 | 0.7% | – 3.0% | 50 | 107 | 0.6% | + 2.9% | 45 | 38 |
| 44 | BYD Seal U | 59 | 0.7% | new | 9 | 194 | 1.1% | new | 20 | 73 |
| 45 | Nissan Qashqai | 59 | 0.7% | + 227.8% | 89 | 80 | 0.5% | + 53.8% | 55 | 52 |
| 46 | Skoda Kamiq | 57 | 0.6% | – 24.0% | 44 | 110 | 0.7% | – 26.2% | 42 | 35 |
| 47 | Tesla Model 3 | 57 | 0.6% | + 26.7% | 28 | 142 | 0.8% | + 5.2% | 36 | 55 |
| 48 | Mazda CX-30 | 56 | 0.6% | – 12.5% | 38 | 114 | 0.7% | – 13.0% | 41 | 39 |
| 49 | Mazda3 | 56 | 0.6% | + 7.7% | 74 | 84 | 0.5% | – 3.4% | 53 | 43 |
| 50 | BMW X1 | 50 | 0.6% | + 42.9% | 40 | 106 | 0.6% | + 35.9% | 46 | 54 |
| 51 | Skoda Fabia | 50 | 0.6% | – 19.4% | 68 | 82 | 0.5% | – 25.5% | 54 | 42 |
| 52 | Volvo XC60 | 50 | 0.6% | + 61.3% | 55 | 89 | 0.5% | + 30.9% | 52 | 69 |
| 53 | MG 4 | 49 | 0.5% | + 2350.0% | 49 | 93 | 0.6% | + 1450.0% | 50 | 195 |
| 54 | BMW X5 | 47 | 0.5% | + 4.4% | 43 | 100 | 0.6% | + 14.9% | 48 | 48 |
| 55 | VW Touareg | 47 | 0.5% | – 30.9% | 30 | 122 | 0.7% | – 19.7% | 39 | 41 |
| 56 | MG ZS | 46 | 0.5% | – 66.4% | 121 | 57 | 0.3% | – 75.7% | 76 | 23 |
| 57 | Geely Cityray | 45 | 0.5% | new | 66 | 77 | 0.5% | new | 57 | 170 |
| 58 | MG HS | 43 | 0.5% | + 30.3% | 79 | 69 | 0.4% | – 38.4% | 60 | 29 |
| 59 | BMW 1 Series | 42 | 0.5% | + 133.3% | 97 | 58 | 0.3% | – 25.6% | 72 | 80 |
| 60 | Renault Arkana | 41 | 0.5% | – 42.3% | 156 | 47 | 0.3% | – 58.0% | 89 | 32 |
| 61 | Renault Mégane | 40 | 0.4% | – 69.0% | 137 | 48 | 0.3% | – 75.0% | 86 | 31 |
| 62 | Peugeot 308 | 38 | 0.4% | – 62.0% | 142 | 45 | 0.3% | – 57.9% | 92 | 65 |
| 63 | Mercedes CLA | 34 | 0.4% | + 61.9% | 91 | 54 | 0.3% | + 38.5% | 81 | 110 |
| 64 | Suzuki Swift | 34 | 0.4% | – 37.0% | 63 | 68 | 0.4% | – 33.3% | 61 | 59 |
| 65 | Chery Tiggo 9 | 33 | 0.4% | new | 82 | 57 | 0.3% | new | 74 | 308 |
| 66 | BYD Saalion 7 | 32 | 0.4% | new | 87 | 54 | 0.3% | new | 80 | 166 |
| 67 | Cupra Terramar | 32 | 0.4% | + 128.6% | 73 | 60 | 0.4% | + 93.5% | 67 | 70 |
| 68 | Mercedes GLA | 32 | 0.4% | – 17.9% | 67 | 64 | 0.4% | – 17.9% | 64 | 83 |
| 69 | Renault Symbioz | 32 | 0.4% | + 39.1% | 88 | 54 | 0.3% | + 80.0% | 82 | 61 |
| 70 | Volvo XC40 | 31 | 0.3% | + 29.2% | 81 | 57 | 0.3% | + 35.7% | 77 | 89 |
| 71 | Hyundai i30 | 30 | 0.3% | – 66.7% | 78 | 56 | 0.3% | – 73.6% | 78 | 27 |
| 72 | BMW 3 Series | 29 | 0.3% | + 3.6% | 47 | 76 | 0.4% | + 4.1% | 58 | 67 |
| 73 | BYD Seal | 29 | 0.3% | n/a | 107 | 43 | 0.3% | + 4200.0% | 93 | 198 |
| 74 | KG Mobility Torres | 29 | 0.3% | + 52.6% | 70 | 58 | 0.3% | + 48.7% | 73 | 85 |
| 75 | Renault Austral | 29 | 0.3% | – 39.6% | 86 | 52 | 0.3% | – 40.2% | 84 | 36 |
| 76 | Renault 5 | 28 | 0.3% | + 600.0% | 59 | 64 | 0.4% | + 1500.0% | 65 | 92 |
| 77 | Toyota Camry | 28 | 0.3% | – 15.2% | 69 | 60 | 0.4% | + 15.4% | 68 | 91 |
| 78 | BMW 5 Series | 27 | 0.3% | – 18.2% | 72 | 55 | 0.3% | + 5.8% | 79 | 86 |
| 79 | Ford Explorer | 26 | 0.3% | + 271.4% | 64 | 59 | 0.3% | + 227.8% | 70 | 90 |
| 80 | Hyundai Inster | 26 | 0.3% | + 1200.0% | 76 | 53 | 0.3% | + 2550.0% | 83 | 78 |
| 81 | Leapmotor T03 | 26 | 0.3% | – 49.0% | 56 | 64 | 0.4% | – 34.7% | 63 | 100 |
| 82 | Mercedes V Class | 26 | 0.3% | + 0.0% | 99 | 42 | 0.2% | – 26.3% | 95 | 96 |
| 83 | VW ID.4 | 26 | 0.3% | + 4.0% | 65 | 59 | 0.3% | + 78.8% | 71 | 121 |
| 84 | KG Mobility Korando | 25 | 0.3% | – 76.0% | 95 | 42 | 0.2% | – 80.6% | 94 | 28 |
| 85 | Audi A5 | 24 | 0.3% | – 11.1% | 41 | 78 | 0.5% | + 44.4% | 56 | 79 |
| 86 | BYD Atto 2 | 23 | 0.3% | new | 85 | 46 | 0.3% | new | 90 | 209 |
| 87 | Mercedes C Class | 23 | 0.3% | – 23.3% | 62 | 57 | 0.3% | + 35.7% | 75 | 102 |
| 88 | VW Tayron | 23 | 0.3% | new | 94 | 41 | 0.2% | new | 97 | 94 |
| 89 | Cupra Formentor | 22 | 0.2% | – 54.2% | 51 | 63 | 0.4% | – 33.0% | 66 | 60 |
| 90 | Mercedes G Class | 22 | 0.2% | + 37.5% | 84 | 46 | 0.3% | + 7.0% | 91 | 98 |
| 91 | Hyundai i20 | 20 | 0.2% | – 71.0% | 149 | 26 | 0.2% | – 82.1% | 112 | 45 |
| 92 | BMW 4 Series | 19 | 0.2% | – 80.8% | 71 | 47 | 0.3% | – 66.2% | 88 | 72 |
| 93 | Ford Tourneo Courier | 19 | 0.2% | + 11.8% | 108 | 33 | 0.2% | + 26.9% | 101 | 146 |
| 94 | VW T-Cross | 19 | 0.2% | – 80.4% | 52 | 60 | 0.4% | – 58.0% | 69 | 44 |
| 95 | Volvo EX30 | 18 | 0.2% | – 14.3% | 90 | 39 | 0.2% | – 7.1% | 99 | 128 |
| 96 | Audi A3 | 17 | 0.2% | – 57.5% | 42 | 70 | 0.4% | – 5.4% | 59 | 62 |
| 97 | Geely Coolray | 17 | 0.2% | – 26.1% | 109 | 31 | 0.2% | – 31.1% | 106 | 97 |
| 98 | Honda HR-V | 17 | 0.2% | + 6.3% | 139 | 24 | 0.1% | + 0.0% | 115 | 113 |
| 99 | Jaecoo 7 | 17 | 0.2% | new | 140 | 24 | 0.1% | new | 116 | 387 |
| 100 | Porsche Cayenne | 17 | 0.2% | – 37.0% | 100 | 33 | 0.2% | – 32.7% | 102 | 99 |
| 101 | Volvo XC90 | 17 | 0.2% | – 15.0% | 46 | 65 | 0.4% | + 47.7% | 62 | 93 |
| 102 | Citroen C4 | 16 | 0.2% | – 87.5% | 242 | 17 | 0.1% | – 88.3% | 138 | 77 |
| 103 | Fiat Tipo | 16 | 0.2% | + 45.5% | 98 | 32 | 0.2% | + 60.0% | 104 | 84 |
| 104 | Toyota Aygo X | 16 | 0.2% | – 15.8% | 270 | 17 | 0.1% | – 55.3% | 141 | 153 |
| 105 | Mercedes E Class | 15 | 0.2% | – 37.5% | 83 | 39 | 0.2% | – 17.0% | 98 | 105 |
| 106 | Mercedes GLS | 15 | 0.2% | + 7.1% | 96 | 32 | 0.2% | + 6.7% | 105 | 141 |
| 107 | VW Caravelle | 15 | 0.2% | n/a | 145 | 22 | 0.1% | n/a | 124 | 183 |
| 108 | BMW X6 | 14 | 0.2% | – 65.9% | 58 | 51 | 0.3% | – 35.4% | 85 | 75 |
| 109 | Ford Tourneo Custom | 14 | 0.2% | – 67.4% | 148 | 20 | 0.1% | – 71.8% | 128 | 122 |
| 110 | Mercedes EQA | 14 | 0.2% | + 133.3% | 118 | 26 | 0.2% | + 85.7% | 114 | 158 |
| 111 | Mitsubishi ASX | 14 | 0.2% | + 55.6% | 136 | 22 | 0.1% | + 37.5% | 123 | 115 |
| 112 | BMW X2 | 13 | 0.1% | + 30.0% | 92 | 32 | 0.2% | + 14.3% | 103 | 133 |
| 113 | Mazda2 | 13 | 0.1% | – 7.1% | 111 | 27 | 0.2% | + 12.5% | 110 | 148 |
| 114 | Mercedes Vito | 13 | 0.1% | n/a | 104 | 28 | 0.2% | n/a | 107 | 180 |
| 115 | Renault Megane E-Tech | 13 | 0.1% | + 18.2% | 157 | 19 | 0.1% | – 83.6% | 132 | 129 |
| 116 | Toyota Land Cruiser 150/200 | 13 | 0.1% | – 53.6% | 125 | 23 | 0.1% | – 61.7% | 119 | 107 |
| 117 | Audi Q8 | 12 | 0.1% | – 70.0% | 102 | 27 | 0.2% | – 63.0% | 109 | 88 |
| 118 | BMW 7 Series | 12 | 0.1% | – 36.8% | 122 | 22 | 0.1% | – 51.1% | 120 | 131 |
| 119 | Kia Xceed | 12 | 0.1% | – 64.7% | 110 | 26 | 0.2% | – 64.4% | 113 | 64 |
| 120 | Land Rover Defender | 12 | 0.1% | + 33.3% | 128 | 21 | 0.1% | + 10.5% | 125 | 165 |
| 121 | Mazda 6e | 12 | 0.1% | new | 120 | 23 | 0.1% | new | – | |
| 122 | Mini | 12 | 0.1% | – 40.0% | 124 | 22 | 0.1% | – 50.0% | 122 | 123 |
| 123 | Range Rover Sport | 12 | 0.1% | – 42.9% | – | 12 | 0.1% | – 67.6% | 163 | 126 |
| 124 | Seat Ibiza | 12 | 0.1% | + 1100.0% | 230 | 14 | 0.1% | + 1300.0% | 155 | 193 |
| 125 | Skoda Elroq | 12 | 0.1% | new | 176 | 16 | 0.1% | new | 145 | 205 |
| 126 | VW Caddy | 12 | 0.1% | – 79.7% | 144 | 19 | 0.1% | – 74.7% | 133 | 125 |
| 127 | BMW 2 Series | 11 | 0.1% | + 37.5% | 126 | 20 | 0.1% | + 17.6% | 126 | 147 |
| 128 | Ford Capri | 11 | 0.1% | + 450.0% | 119 | 22 | 0.1% | + 340.0% | 121 | 112 |
| 129 | Lexus NX | 11 | 0.1% | + 37.5% | 129 | 20 | 0.1% | + 0.0% | 130 | 137 |
| 130 | Omoda 9 | 11 | 0.1% | new | 165 | 16 | 0.1% | new | 144 | 368 |
| 131 | Renault Rafale | 11 | 0.1% | – 59.3% | 101 | 27 | 0.2% | – 28.9% | 111 | 103 |
| 132 | Seat Leon | 11 | 0.1% | + 37.5% | 143 | 18 | 0.1% | + 50.0% | 137 | 145 |
| 133 | MG 3 | 10 | 0.1% | – 69.7% | 135 | 18 | 0.1% | – 76.3% | 136 | 76 |
| 134 | VW Passat | 10 | 0.1% | – 83.3% | 57 | 48 | 0.3% | – 58.3% | 87 | 58 |
| 135 | BMW iX1 | 9 | 0.1% | n/a | 146 | 15 | 0.1% | + 150.0% | 146 | 187 |
| 136 | BYD Seal 6 | 9 | 0.1% | new | 160 | 14 | 0.1% | new | 153 | – |
| 137 | Citroen C3 | 9 | 0.1% | – 47.1% | 138 | 16 | 0.1% | – 55.6% | 142 | 71 |
| 138 | Cupra Leon | 9 | 0.1% | + 28.6% | 147 | 15 | 0.1% | – 6.3% | 148 | 177 |
| 139 | Hyundai Ioniq 5 | 9 | 0.1% | + 800.0% | 150 | 15 | 0.1% | + 650.0% | 150 | 167 |
| 140 | Mercedes GLB | 9 | 0.1% | – 52.6% | 134 | 17 | 0.1% | – 41.4% | 140 | 101 |
| 141 | Peugeot 208 | 9 | 0.1% | – 30.8% | 105 | 24 | 0.1% | – 33.3% | 117 | 74 |
| 142 | Honda CR-V | 8 | 0.1% | + 14.3% | 115 | 20 | 0.1% | + 150.0% | 129 | 134 |
| 143 | KG Mobility Actyon | 8 | 0.1% | new | 162 | 13 | 0.1% | new | 157 | 157 |
| 144 | Kia EV3 | 8 | 0.1% | + 166.7% | 151 | 14 | 0.1% | + 180.0% | 154 | 211 |
| 145 | BMW i4 | 7 | 0.1% | – 22.2% | 112 | 20 | 0.1% | + 0.0% | 127 | 160 |
| 146 | KG Mobility Rexton | 7 | 0.1% | – 73.1% | 173 | 11 | 0.1% | – 76.1% | 164 | 82 |
| 147 | Kia Stonic | 7 | 0.1% | – 36.4% | 191 | 10 | 0.1% | – 50.0% | 168 | 144 |
| 148 | Nissan X-Trail | 7 | 0.1% | – 22.2% | 155 | 13 | 0.1% | – 45.8% | 159 | 135 |
| 149 | Omoda 5 | 7 | 0.1% | new | 175 | 11 | 0.1% | new | 166 | – |
| 150 | Opel Corsa | 7 | 0.1% | – 65.0% | 263 | 8 | 0.0% | – 68.0% | 183 | 81 |
| 151 | Renault 4 | 7 | 0.1% | new | 226 | 9 | 0.1% | new | 175 | 221 |
| 152 | BMW X7 | 6 | 0.1% | – 25.0% | 127 | 15 | 0.1% | – 16.7% | 147 | 155 |
| 153 | Cupra Tavascan | 6 | 0.1% | + 200.0% | 169 | 10 | 0.1% | + 150.0% | 167 | 247 |
| 154 | Ford Focus | 6 | 0.1% | – 85.4% | 75 | 33 | 0.2% | – 65.3% | 100 | 47 |
| 155 | Geely Starray | 6 | 0.1% | – 25.0% | 123 | 16 | 0.1% | – 5.9% | 143 | 124 |
| 156 | Kia Ceed | 6 | 0.1% | – 79.3% | 217 | 8 | 0.0% | – 88.9% | 181 | 49 |
| 157 | Mazda CX-60 | 6 | 0.1% | – 40.0% | 153 | 12 | 0.1% | – 47.8% | 161 | 117 |
| 158 | Mercedes A Class | 6 | 0.1% | – 45.5% | 117 | 18 | 0.1% | – 21.7% | 135 | 111 |
| 159 | Mercedes CLE | 6 | 0.1% | – 14.3% | 154 | 12 | 0.1% | – 14.3% | 162 | 176 |
| 160 | Mercedes S Class | 6 | 0.1% | – 40.0% | 164 | 11 | 0.1% | – 52.2% | 165 | 159 |
| 161 | Mercedes Sprinter | 6 | 0.1% | + 0.0% | 130 | 15 | 0.1% | + 114.3% | 151 | 202 |
| 162 | Porsche 911 | 6 | 0.1% | – 50.0% | 113 | 19 | 0.1% | + 11.8% | 131 | 143 |
| 163 | Range Rover | 6 | 0.1% | – 73.9% | 199 | 9 | 0.1% | – 74.3% | 174 | 139 |
| 164 | Subaru Forester | 6 | 0.1% | + 500.0% | 177 | 10 | 0.1% | + 400.0% | 170 | 178 |
| 165 | VW ID.3 | 6 | 0.1% | – 85.0% | 114 | 19 | 0.1% | – 68.3% | 134 | 140 |
| 166 | VW ID.7 | 6 | 0.1% | + 50.0% | 206 | 9 | 0.1% | + 80.0% | 176 | 227 |
| 167 | VW Multivan | 6 | 0.1% | n/a | 207 | 9 | 0.1% | + 80.0% | 177 | 181 |
| 168 | Audi A6 | 5 | 0.1% | – 82.1% | 131 | 13 | 0.1% | – 70.5% | 156 | 118 |
| 169 | Audi Q7 | 5 | 0.1% | – 68.8% | 167 | 9 | 0.1% | – 78.6% | 171 | 114 |
| 170 | Citroen C3 Aircross | 5 | 0.1% | n/a | 241 | 6 | 0.0% | n/a | 192 | 208 |
| 171 | Ford Bronco | 5 | 0.1% | + 66.7% | 170 | 9 | 0.1% | + 200.0% | 172 | 258 |
| 172 | Hyundai i10 | 5 | 0.1% | – 83.3% | 186 | 8 | 0.0% | – 85.7% | 180 | 87 |
| 173 | Hyundai Santa Fe | 5 | 0.1% | – 64.3% | 116 | 17 | 0.1% | – 46.9% | 139 | 116 |
| 174 | Jeep Avenger | 5 | 0.1% | – 93.8% | 141 | 12 | 0.1% | – 92.9% | 160 | 51 |
| 175 | KG Mobility Tivoli | 5 | 0.1% | – 92.5% | 174 | 9 | 0.1% | – 93.4% | 173 | 46 |
| 176 | Lamborghini Urus | 5 | 0.1% | + 150.0% | 256 | 6 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | 197 | 216 |
| 177 | Lexus RX | 5 | 0.1% | – 37.5% | 132 | 13 | 0.1% | – 38.1% | 158 | 138 |
| 178 | Skoda Enyaq | 5 | 0.1% | n/a | – | 5 | 0.0% | + 66.7% | 213 | 232 |
| 179 | Volvo EC40 | 5 | 0.1% | + 400.0% | 271 | 6 | 0.0% | + 200.0% | 203 | 285 |
| 180 | BMW XM | 4 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 184 | 7 | 0.0% | – 69.6% | 187 | 169 |
| 181 | Citroen C5 Aircross | 4 | 0.0% | + 33.3% | 168 | 8 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | 179 | 182 |
| 182 | Citroen e-C3 | 4 | 0.0% | – 42.9% | 212 | 6 | 0.0% | – 45.5% | 193 | 203 |
| 183 | Honda ZR-V | 4 | 0.0% | – 69.2% | 254 | 5 | 0.0% | – 77.3% | 207 | 163 |
| 184 | Jeep Wrangler | 4 | 0.0% | + 33.3% | 189 | 7 | 0.0% | – 46.2% | 189 | 210 |
| 185 | Mini Countryman | 4 | 0.0% | – 55.6% | 197 | 7 | 0.0% | – 56.3% | 190 | 192 |
| 186 | Mitsubishi Outlander | 4 | 0.0% | new | 222 | 6 | 0.0% | new | 199 | 175 |
| 187 | Renault Kangoo | 4 | 0.0% | – 87.5% | 227 | 6 | 0.0% | – 81.8% | 200 | 149 |
| 188 | Seat Ateca | 4 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 229 | 6 | 0.0% | – 64.7% | 201 | 171 |
| 189 | Toyota bZ4X | 4 | 0.0% | + 300.0% | 179 | 8 | 0.0% | + 33.3% | 184 | 206 |
| 190 | BMW 2 Series Tourer | 3 | 0.0% | – 40.0% | 159 | 8 | 0.0% | – 11.1% | 178 | 185 |
| 191 | BMW iX | 3 | 0.0% | – 25.0% | 237 | 4 | 0.0% | – 33.3% | 215 | 233 |
| 192 | BMW ix2 | 3 | 0.0% | n/a | 238 | 4 | 0.0% | n/a | 216 | 265 |
| 193 | BMW iX3 | 3 | 0.0% | n/a | 183 | 6 | 0.0% | + 50.0% | 191 | 313 |
| 194 | Fiat 600 | 3 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | 185 | 6 | 0.0% | – 76.9% | 194 | 150 |
| 195 | Ford Mustang Mach-E | 3 | 0.0% | + 50.0% | 214 | 5 | 0.0% | + 25.0% | 206 | 204 |
| 196 | Hyundai Ioniq 6 | 3 | 0.0% | n/a | 172 | 7 | 0.0% | + 250.0% | 188 | 212 |
| 197 | Hyundai Staria | 3 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | 187 | 6 | 0.0% | – 40.0% | 196 | 190 |
| 198 | Jaecoo 5 | 3 | 0.0% | new | – | 3 | 0.0% | new | 244 | – |
| 199 | Leapmotor C10 | 3 | 0.0% | + 200.0% | 258 | 4 | 0.0% | + 300.0% | 221 | 266 |
| 200 | Peugeot 5008 | 3 | 0.0% | – 25.0% | – | 3 | 0.0% | – 57.1% | 242 | 197 |
| 201 | Suzuki Jimny | 3 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 3 | 0.0% | n/a | 243 | 306 |
| 202 | Toyota Proace | 3 | 0.0% | – 70.0% | 203 | 6 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 202 | 164 |
| 203 | Toyota Proace City Verso | 3 | 0.0% | + 200.0% | 166 | 8 | 0.0% | + 166.7% | 185 | 244 |
| 204 | Volvo V60 | 3 | 0.0% | + 50.0% | 205 | 6 | 0.0% | + 200.0% | 204 | 238 |
| 205 | Alfa Romeo Junior | 2 | 0.0% | – 90.5% | 158 | 7 | 0.0% | – 79.4% | 186 | 130 |
| 206 | BMW i5 | 2 | 0.0% | – 33.3% | 182 | 5 | 0.0% | – 16.7% | 205 | 255 |
| 207 | BMW Z4 | 2 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 239 | 3 | 0.0% | + 50.0% | 233 | 283 |
| 208 | Citroen Jumpy/Spacetourer | 2 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 244 | 3 | 0.0% | – 81.3% | 234 | 154 |
| 209 | Ford Tourneo Connect | 2 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | 251 | 3 | 0.0% | – 40.0% | 235 | 236 |
| 210 | Ford Transit | 2 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | 171 | 6 | 0.0% | + 500.0% | 195 | 237 |
| 211 | Honda Civic | 2 | 0.0% | – 81.8% | 215 | 4 | 0.0% | – 88.6% | 217 | 120 |
| 212 | Hyundai Bayon | 2 | 0.0% | – 90.9% | – | 2 | 0.0% | – 95.8% | 259 | 104 |
| 213 | Kia EV4 | 2 | 0.0% | new | 152 | 8 | 0.0% | new | 182 | 392 |
| 214 | Kia Niro | 2 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | – | 2 | 0.0% | – 33.3% | 260 | 207 |
| 215 | Kia Sorento | 2 | 0.0% | – 80.0% | 218 | 4 | 0.0% | – 76.5% | 220 | 188 |
| 216 | Land Rover Discovery Sport | 2 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | 257 | 3 | 0.0% | – 40.0% | 236 | 249 |
| 217 | Lexus LBX | 2 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 219 | 4 | 0.0% | – 33.3% | 222 | 179 |
| 218 | Lynk & Co 02 | 2 | 0.0% | new | 193 | 5 | 0.0% | new | 209 | 254 |
| 219 | Lynk & Co 08 | 2 | 0.0% | new | 133 | 10 | 0.1% | new | 169 | 273 |
| 220 | Mazda CX-80 | 2 | 0.0% | – 85.7% | 195 | 5 | 0.0% | – 84.4% | 210 | 142 |
| 221 | Mercedes EQB | 2 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | 220 | 4 | 0.0% | – 55.6% | 225 | 217 |
| 222 | Mercedes Maybach SL | 2 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 2 | 0.0% | n/a | 261 | 355 |
| 223 | Mini Aceman | 2 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | – | 2 | 0.0% | – 60.0% | 262 | 224 |
| 224 | Opel Frontera | 2 | 0.0% | new | 80 | 28 | 0.2% | new | 108 | 127 |
| 225 | Porsche Panamera | 2 | 0.0% | – 33.3% | 198 | 5 | 0.0% | + 25.0% | 211 | 242 |
| 226 | Range Rover Evoque | 2 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 267 | 3 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 240 | 215 |
| 227 | Range Rover Velar | 2 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 2 | 0.0% | n/a | 263 | 259 |
| 228 | Renault Scenic E-Tech | 2 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | 228 | 4 | 0.0% | – 87.1% | 226 | 173 |
| 229 | Subaru Outback | 2 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | – | 2 | 0.0% | – 33.3% | 264 | 279 |
| 230 | Volvo ES90 | 2 | 0.0% | new | – | 2 | 0.0% | new | 265 | – |
| 231 | Alfa Romeo Stelvio | 1 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | – | 1 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | 285 | 271 |
| 232 | Aston Martin DBX | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 208 | 3 | 0.0% | n/a | 231 | 327 |
| 233 | Audi Q6 | 1 | 0.0% | – 75.0% | 181 | 4 | 0.0% | – 42.9% | 214 | 243 |
| 234 | Baic BJ30 | 1 | 0.0% | new | – | 1 | 0.0% | new | 286 | 277 |
| 235 | BAIC X55 | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 287 | 328 |
| 236 | BAIC X75 | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 235 | 2 | 0.0% | – 60.0% | 246 | 263 |
| 237 | Bentley Continental Flying Spur | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 236 | 2 | 0.0% | + 100.0% | 247 | 298 |
| 238 | BMW X4 | 1 | 0.0% | – 75.0% | 211 | 3 | 0.0% | – 80.0% | 232 | 168 |
| 239 | DFSK Fengon 500 | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 288 | 272 |
| 240 | Fiat Panda | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 289 | 151 |
| 241 | Ford C-Max | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 290 | – |
| 242 | Ford Mustang | 1 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 250 | 2 | 0.0% | – 71.4% | 250 | 220 |
| 243 | Forthing 4 | 1 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | – | 1 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | 291 | 245 |
| 244 | Forthing 9 | 1 | 0.0% | new | – | 1 | 0.0% | new | 292 | 315 |
| 245 | Honda E:NY1 | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 253 | 2 | 0.0% | n/a | 251 | 322 |
| 246 | JAC E30X | 1 | 0.0% | new | – | 1 | 0.0% | new | 305 | – |
| 247 | Jeep Grand Cherokee | 1 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | 188 | 4 | 0.0% | + 33.3% | 218 | 332 |
| 248 | Kia Picanto | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 190 | 4 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 219 | 252 |
| 249 | Lexus ES | 1 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 259 | 2 | 0.0% | – 33.3% | 253 | 246 |
| 250 | Lexus UX | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | – | 1 | 0.0% | – 75.0% | 293 | 253 |
| 251 | Lynk & Co 01 | 1 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | 192 | 4 | 0.0% | – 20.0% | 223 | 199 |
| 252 | Maserati Grecale | 1 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 194 | 4 | 0.0% | + 33.3% | 224 | 274 |
| 253 | Maserati Levante | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 294 | 352 |
| 254 | McLaren 750S Coupe | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 295 | 353 |
| 255 | Mercedes AMG GT | 1 | 0.0% | – 85.7% | 163 | 6 | 0.0% | – 40.0% | 198 | 156 |
| 256 | Mercedes EQE | 1 | 0.0% | – 83.3% | 262 | 2 | 0.0% | – 88.2% | 254 | 196 |
| 257 | Mercedes EQV | 1 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | – | 1 | 0.0% | – 75.0% | 296 | 291 |
| 258 | Mercedes Maybach GLS | 1 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | – | 1 | 0.0% | – 83.3% | 297 | 226 |
| 259 | MG EHS | 1 | 0.0% | – 85.7% | – | 1 | 0.0% | – 93.3% | 298 | 223 |
| 260 | Mitsubishi Colt | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | – | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 299 | 161 |
| 261 | Nissan Juke | 1 | 0.0% | – 87.5% | 53 | 41 | 0.2% | + 70.8% | 96 | 132 |
| 262 | Opel Mokka | 1 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 224 | 3 | 0.0% | – 70.0% | 238 | 106 |
| 263 | Peugeot 207 | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 300 | – |
| 264 | Porsche Macan | 1 | 0.0% | – 90.0% | 225 | 3 | 0.0% | – 76.9% | 239 | 200 |
| 265 | Renault Kadjar | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 301 | 407 |
| 266 | Rolls-Royce Ghost | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 302 | 335 |
| 267 | Rolls-Royce Spectre | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | – | 1 | 0.0% | – 75.0% | 303 | 305 |
| 268 | Seat Arona | 1 | 0.0% | – 50.0% | 200 | 4 | 0.0% | – 55.6% | 227 | 162 |
| 269 | Subaru Crosstrek | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 201 | 4 | 0.0% | n/a | 228 | 319 |
| 270 | Suzuki Across | 1 | 0.0% | – 66.7% | 202 | 4 | 0.0% | – 42.9% | 229 | 261 |
| 271 | Toyota Highlander | 1 | 0.0% | – 91.7% | – | 1 | 0.0% | – 95.7% | 304 | 189 |
| 272 | Toyota Prius | 1 | 0.0% | + 0.0% | 180 | 5 | 0.0% | + 150.0% | 212 | 268 |
| 273 | VW ID.5 | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | – | 1 | 0.0% | n/a | 308 | 310 |
| 274 | Zeekr 001 | 1 | 0.0% | new | 272 | 2 | 0.0% | new | 258 | – |
| 275 | Zeekr 7X | 1 | 0.0% | new | – | 1 | 0.0% | new | 307 | – |
| 276 | Zeekr X | 1 | 0.0% | new | – | 1 | 0.0% | new | 306 | – |
Source: DRPCIV
Arne Slot said Liverpool’s dismal defeat to Wolves “sums up their season”, hitting out at their profligacy in attack and their tendency to concede late goals. Liverpool arrived at Molineux chasing a fourth straight Premier League win, which would have taken them level with Manchester United and Aston Villa in the race for a top-four […]
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Rob Edwards feels Wolves’ wins over Aston Villa and Liverpool can help to create some positive momentum at Molineux, even if their likely relegation from the Premier League is confirmed. Wolves may appear destined to suffer the drop this season, but they are not going down without a fight, stunning Villa and Liverpool at Molineux […]
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Edifier has introduced the MK12 wireless lavalier microphone in China. It is now available on JD.com for 139 yuan ($20). The microphone is available in two colors, Classic Black and Cloud Rock White, and is designed for simple, plug-and-play use with a wide range of audio systems.
The MK12 includes a clip-on transmitter and a receiver with a standard 3.5mm audio plug. This design allows it to connect directly to speakers, portable amplifiers, sound systems, and mixers without requiring additional setup. Edifier has developed a custom housing for the MK12, moving away from generic molds to create a more distinctive design.
The microphone uses 2.4GHz wireless transmission to ensure a stable connection. Edifier claims the device can maintain an unobstructed wireless range of over 30 meters. It features a high-sensitivity, unidirectional electret condenser capsule that is tuned for clear vocal pickup. The company positions the MK12 as a solution for classrooms, training sessions, sales presentations, and promotional events.
Edifier has included a built-in DSP chip for audio processing. The DSP provides anti-feedback technology to reduce howling and improve voice clarity, even during live amplification. It also supports advanced features like Acoustic Echo Cancellation (AEC) and Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC). These technologies help eliminate background noise and maintain clear speech, even in demanding environments.
The transmitter includes a 300mAh battery, which provides up to 15 hours of use on a single charge. The microphone uses a clip-on design for easy attachment to clothing, while the receiver comes with a lanyard for added portability.
The MK12 has a frequency response of 100Hz to 10kHz, which is optimized for voice rather than music. It supports both 3.5mm and 6.35mm inputs, with an adapter included in the package for compatibility with larger connectors.
In related news, Edifier has recently launched the retro-inspired M330 II Bluetooth speaker with LDAC, AirPlay 2, and up to 14 hours of battery life, alongside the Hecate Air 3 Commander open-ear gaming headset with 2.4G wireless connectivity and Bluetooth 6.0 support.
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Motorola has introduced two new wireless earbuds at MWC 2026 as part of its Moto Things ecosystem. The new models are the Moto Buds 2 Plus and the Moto Buds 2. Both earbuds focus on delivering strong audio performance, active noise cancellation, and smart features in a compact design with Pantone color finishes.
The Moto Buds 2 Plus are designed for users who move between work, calls, and entertainment throughout the day. The earbuds use Sound by Bose technology, tuned to deliver balanced and detailed audio.
They feature 11mm dynamic drivers for deeper bass and Knowles balanced armatures for improved clarity and precision. The earbuds support Hi-Res Audio with the Low-Latency High-Definition Audio Codec (LHDC) for high-quality wireless playback. Spatial Audio is also included to create a more immersive sound experience.
To reduce distractions, the Moto Buds 2 Plus include Dynamic Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). This helps block outside noise while working or traveling. For calls, the earbuds use six microphones with Environmental Noise Cancellation and a high signal-to-noise ratio to deliver clearer voice audio. Users can also enable CrystalTalk AI in the Moto Buds app, which uses AI noise reduction to improve voice clarity in loud environments.
Battery life is rated at up to 9 hours on a single charge, with up to 40 hours of total playback when using the charging case. The earbuds support Dual Connection, allowing them to stay connected to two devices at the same time. Users can move between a laptop and a phone without reconnecting. The Audio Share feature lets two pairs of Moto Buds 2 Plus connect to one phone to listen together. Wear Detection automatically pauses audio when the earbuds are removed.
Users can customize touch controls for play, pause, track skipping, calls, or launching a voice assistant. On compatible Motorola devices, holding the earbuds activates Moto AI features such as Catch Me Up, Pay Attention, and Remember This. AI-powered translation is also supported on select devices.
The Moto Buds 2 are aimed at everyday listening. They use 11mm dynamic drivers and 6mm micro planar magnetic drivers and support Hi-Res Audio with LHDC. Spatial Audio is also supported for more immersive playback.
They include Dynamic ANC rated up to 55dB, along with Transparency Mode so users can hear their surroundings when needed. The earbuds also feature six microphones with Environmental Noise Cancellation for clear voice calls.
Battery life reaches up to 11 hours on a single charge and up to 48 hours total with the charging case. A 10-minute charge provides up to 3 hours of playback.
The Moto Buds 2 support Dual Connection and use Bluetooth 6.0 for improved connectivity and faster speeds. A Gaming Mode in the Moto Buds app reduces audio latency for gaming. On supported Motorola devices, users can also access Moto AI features such as Catch Me Up, Pay Attention, and Remember This by holding the earbuds.
The Moto Buds 2 Plus start at €149/£130 and will launch in Europe, the Middle East, Latin America, and Asia Pacific in the coming weeks. Color options include PANTONE Cool White and PANTONE Silhouette.
The Moto Buds 2 start at €79 and will also launch in the same regions. They will be available in PANTONE Carbon, PANTONE Violet Ice, and PANTONE Gray Mist.
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Nubia has unveiled the nubia Neo 5 GT at MWC Barcelona 2026. The phone targets young gamers and Gen Z users with a focus on cooling performance, gaming controls, and AI-powered features.
The Nubia Neo 5 GT is the only phone in its class with a built-in active cooling fan. It also includes a 29,508mm² cooling area and a Through-Flow Duct Design that directs airflow over the CPU and battery. This setup is built to control heat and maintain stable frame rates during long gaming sessions.
The device runs on the MediaTek D7400 4nm processor with LPDDR5 memory rated at 6400Mbps. Performance is managed by the NeoTurbo Engine for consistent frame rates. A 360° Game Antenna helps maintain strong connectivity regardless of how the phone is held. The phone is certified for 120FPS gameplay on Garena Free Fire and MLBB. It also supports 90FPS on Delta Force with the Mid-Season update.
The Nubia Neo 5 GT comes with 550Hz Neo Triggers 5.0 for four-finger control. It supports sub-5.5ms latency and a 3049Hz touch sampling rate. Magic Touch 3.0 keeps the screen responsive even with wet or sweaty fingers.
It features a 6.8-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and 4,500 nits peak brightness. SGS-certified Eye Care helps reduce eye strain. The 6,210mAh dual-cell battery supports up to 80W fast charging, while the EU version supports 45W PD charging. The 5% Extreme Mode delivers up to 23 minutes of gaming or 29 hours of standby. Bypass Charging powers the device directly during gaming without charging the battery.
The Neo 5 GT has a completely flat back with no camera bump, rounded corners, and a 90° charging cable. It includes stereo dual speakers with DTS:X Ultra, an X-Axis linear motor, and RGB lighting that reacts during gameplay.
AI Game Space 5.0 centralizes performance controls. AI Copilot Demi 2.0 includes a Gaming Coach, Gaming Chatbot, and Auto-Chat reply feature.
The series also includes a 50MP AI triple rear camera and a 16MP front camera. AI Memory, AI Scam Alert, AI Image and Text Generation, and AI Translate are included.
The device will launch globally starting in Southeast Asia in March with a starting price of €399.
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Anker has launched its new 250W Desktop Charger Pro+ (model A2345) on JD.com for 849 yuan (approx $120). The charger features a design similar to the current 250W global version and offers six ports, including four USB-C and two USB-A, with support for multiple fast-charging protocols.
The new charger delivers a maximum output of 250W. The USB-C1 port supports up to 140W output, making it suitable for high-performance laptops like the 16-inch MacBook Pro. It offers multiple power profiles, including 5V/3A (15W), 9V/3A (27W), 15V/3A (45W), 20V/5A (100W), and 28V/5A (140W). The USB-C2, USB-C3, and USB-C4 ports each deliver up to 100W output for fast charging phones, tablets, and other devices.
The device features comprehensive protocol compatibility, including PD, PD 3.1, PPS up to 100W, SCP, UFCS, and Xiaomi’s proprietary fast-charging standards. It comes with built-in support for Huawei 66W SuperCharge and Xiaomi 120W wired fast charging when paired with compatible cables.
The dual USB-A ports provide up to 22.5W output, which works well for smaller devices and accessories like earbuds or power banks.
Anker has built the charger with GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology, which improves efficiency and keeps the device compact. The charger measures 106 x 90 x 40 mm and weighs 640 grams, making it portable and practical for travel or a permanent desk setup.
The front of the charger includes a 2.26-inch LCD display that shows real-time power output for each port. Anker also integrates intelligent power distribution that ensures safe and efficient charging when multiple devices are connected.
In related news, Anker has recently introduced the Soundcore Boom Go 3i portable speaker in Europe, and also unveiled the Soundcore Space 2 headphones featuring enhanced ANC and up to 70 hours of battery life.
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The all-new MacBook Air M5 is here, and at first glance, it doesn’t look very different. But inside, Apple’s latest thin-and-light laptop gets a new chip, faster storage, and updated wireless connectivity, while it keeps the same design that’s defined the Air lineup for the past few years.
Apple’s new MacBook Air is powered by the company’s M5 chip. An important change is that the laptop now starts with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage as standard.
The price also went up from $999 to $1,099 for the base, but you can’t complain. Pre-orders are opening from March 4th, and the launch is set for Wednesday, March 11.
On the outside, this is still very much the MacBook Air people know. Apple is keeping the same chassis design, flat edges, a thin profile, and a lightweight build. The 13-inch version weighs 1.23kg, while the 15-inch model comes in at 1.51kg. Color options include sky blue, silver, starlight, and midnight.
The 13-inch model continues to feature a 13.6-inch LCD display with a 2560 x 1664 resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate. Up top, there’s still a 12MP Center Stage webcam, which automatically adjusts framing during video calls.
The real story here is the M5 chip. Apple is offering two GPU configurations: one with an 8-core graphics processor and another with a 10-core graphics processor.
The new MacBook Air M5 also allows users to customize RAM, SSD capacity, keyboard options, and even the matching power adapter. Apple claims the SSD read and write speeds are now twice as fast as the previous generation.
Connectivity also gets a bump. The laptop includes Apple’s upgraded N1 wireless chip, supporting Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be), Bluetooth 6, and Thread networking technology.
The MacBook Air M5 packs a 53.8Wh lithium polymer battery, rated for up to 18 hours of streaming video playback. Likewise, you get a MagSafe 3 magnetic charging port and two Thunderbolt 4 ports on the left. On the right, you’ll find a 3.5mm headphone jack.
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TECNO presented concept devices at Mobile World Congress 2026 that tackle a basic problem: AI needs more computing power than current smartphones can handle in their existing designs.
The main solution is Modular Magnetic Interconnection Technology. Users snap hardware pieces onto their phones using magnets. The system includes stackable batteries, action cameras, and telephoto lenses that connect through intelligent connectivity.
Two versions show different styles. The ATOM edition focuses on clean structure and subtle design. The MODA edition uses bold, geek-inspired looks. Both let you add capabilities outside the phone body instead of packing everything inside. This keeps the phone light for daily use while supporting high-demand tasks when needed.
The POVA Ecosystem extends this concept across multiple devices. POVA Metal is the world’s first full-metal unibody 5G phone. It has a Snapdragon processor and all-metal construction.
POVA Controller Slide is the world’s first controller with targeted aiming for MOBA mobile games. It offers 0 to 25-degree adjustable viewing angles, works for both FPS and MOBA games, and supports wireless charging.
POVA Earphones match the ecosystem design with futuristic styling and signature dot-matrix lighting.
Edge-Side AIGC Preview Concept Technology puts AI processing on the device itself. This removes the need for an internet connection and cuts down lag time.
TECNO worked with Arm to build customized Style Transfer Preview technology. It uses algorithm optimization to reduce screen flickering and jitters that appear in older solutions. The result is a real-time preview at 30fps with smooth split-screen viewing.
The company compressed AI models to run completely offline on smartphones while keeping artistic quality and stable performance.
AI EINK uses electronic ink technology for a paper-like display. The device uses AI recognition to analyze colors from the camera and match the back panel. Users can personalize it through a dedicated app.
TECNO Slim 2 has an ultra-thin body and 0.7mm ultra-narrow bezel.
POVA Neon is the first smartphone to use ionized inert gas lighting technology, creating a glowing effect.
The Concept Design Suite includes a laptop, tablet, earbuds, smartwatch, smart glasses, and power bank. The “Music in Motion” theme uses citrus yellow and urban gray colors.
TECNO PHANTOM Ultimate G Fold Concept is the world’s thinnest tri-fold phone. The G-style tri-fold design has a 9.94-inch display that folds inward twice. This protects the main screen from scratches and impacts when closed.
The device is 11.49mm thick when folded and 3.49mm thick when unfolded. It uses 2,000 MPa ultra-high-strength steel for the hinge and ultra-strong Titan Fiber for the back cover, which is just 0.3mm thick.
TECNO displayed these concepts at Stand 7A40 in Hall 7 at Fira Gran Via in Barcelona from March 2 to 5.
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It’s been over half a decade since Samsung last increased the battery capacity of its top-tier Galaxy S flagship. The company moved to a 5,000mAh cell with the Galaxy S20 Ultra back in 2020, and that figure remains unchanged in the newly launched Galaxy S26 Ultra. Instead of increasing raw capacity, Samsung is leaning on improved efficiency from the latest Snapdragon, along with performance tuning in One UI 8.5.
Meanwhile, Chinese brands like Xiaomi, OnePlus, and Honor have taken a very different approach. Their latest flagships pair the same chipset with high-energy-density batteries with capacities over 7,000mAh. So naturally, the big question is where the Galaxy S26 Ultra stands against these rivals when it comes to battery life. A recent battery drain comparison by Tech Droider attempts to put that into perspective.
The test simulated mixed real-world usage such as browsing, video playback, gaming, camera work, and the Galaxy S26 Ultra lasted 9 hours and 8 minutes. That’s actually a step up from last year’s S25 Ultra, which stopped at around 8 hours and 40 minutes in the same test. So there is progress, even if it’s not dramatic.
Where things get interesting is in the comparison. The iPhone 17 Pro Max crossed 9 hours and 41 minutes. Xiaomi’s 17 Pro Max pushed just past 10 hours. And the OnePlus 15 stretched all the way to 12 hours and 31 minutes.
That gap isn’t hard to explain. Battery size plays a role, and a big one. The OnePlus 15 carries a 7,300mAh battery, and Xiaomi’s flagship goes up to 7,500mAh. With that kind of capacity advantage, endurance gains start to look less surprising.
The pattern is becoming clearer year after year. Efficiency tweaks help, but they only go so far when rivals are increasing raw capacity by 30–40 percent.
Samsung has hinted at possible silicon-carbon adoption in future models, which could allow for larger batteries without adding bulk. If that happens, the balance may shift. For now, though, the S26 Ultra remains competitive rather than class-leading in endurance.
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If you’ve been keeping up with us, you’ve already seen the early details on the Honor Magic 9 series. Now there’s more. This time, the spotlight is on the Honor Magic 9 Pro.
According to tipster Digital Chat Station, Honor is testing the Magic 9 Pro with not one but two 200-megapixel sensors on the back. One is said to serve as the primary camera, while the other would power a periscope-style telephoto lens.
The more interesting part is the choice of sensor. The prototype is said to be using either the OmniVision OV52B or the OmniVision OVB0D, both 200MP sensors, but with slightly different sizes and capabilities.
The OV52B reportedly comes in a 1/1.3-inch format and is expected to appear in several 2026 flagship phones. It’s designed to balance high resolution with improved dynamic range, which could help capture more detail in both bright and dark areas of a scene.
The OVB0D, on the other hand, is even larger at 1/1.12 inches and supports OmniVision’s LOFIC Gen 2 HDR technology. LOFIC, short for Lateral Overflow Integration Capacitor, is meant to improve dynamic range and reduce blown-out highlights in challenging lighting. That could make it particularly useful in a flagship device that wants to compete on image quality rather than just raw megapixel numbers.
For now, there are no confirmed details about the phone’s processor, design, or battery. The leak focuses entirely on imaging. But the tipster did confirm that the Honor Magic 9 Pro will feature a 6.85-inch display.
As always with early leaks, plans can change. But we now at least have an idea of what Honor is preparing for its 2027 flagship lineup. The lineup could debut in October 2026.
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The Redmi K90 Ultra was supposed to arrive in February — at least, that’s what earlier rumors suggested. February has come and gone, and there’s still no official word. Now, a new leak indicates the wait might stretch a bit longer.
According to a well-known Weibo tipster, Digital Chat Station, a certain manufacturer’s Dimensity 9500 flagship processor is tentatively scheduled for release in April.
While the post doesn’t directly name the phone, the clues are hard to ignore. Based on the blogger’s previous posting patterns and discussions in the comments, many are speculating that the device in question is the Xiaomi Redmi K90 Ultra.
As for specs, the rumored hardware reads like a checklist of flagship ambitions. The phone is expected to feature a massive 6.8-inch display with 1.5K resolution and a 165Hz refresh rate.
Powering it could be an equally massive 8,500mAh battery with support for 100W charging. Other rumored features include a metal frame, an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor, and comprehensive water resistance.
There’s also a global angle. The so-called Xiaomi 17T Pro is rumored to be a tweaked version of the K90 Ultra for international markets. Carrying the model number 2602EPTC0G, it may ship without certain features like a cooling fan.
In any case, the Redmi K90 Ultra is expected to launch along with the Redmi K Pad 2 in China. It could come with an 8.8-inch 3K display, a flagship-level processor, and a larger 9,000mAh cell.
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Smalth has expanded its wearable portfolio with the launch of the Titanium Pro smart ring. The new model builds upon the existing Titanium platform and introduces deeper heart monitoring features. Designed as a screen-free wearable, it focuses on delivering meaningful health insights in a subtle and comfortable form.
The Smalth Titanium Pro comes equipped with integrated ECG support, allowing users to monitor heart rhythm patterns beyond standard heart rate tracking. By combining ECG with continuous heart rate, HRV, sleep stage analysis and activity tracking, the ring offers a broader understanding of cardiac health over time.
It can store health data offline for up to seven days, making it suitable for travel or limited connectivity situations. Once paired with the companion app, all stored data syncs automatically.
Constructed from medical-grade titanium, the ring is lightweight, durable and resistant to corrosion. Its minimalist and gender-neutral design ensures that it blends seamlessly into everyday wear. The waterproof build adds to its practicality for daily use.
Battery endurance is one of the key highlights of the Titanium Pro. In normal usage conditions, the ring lasts between five and seven days, while lighter usage can extend battery life up to 12 days. The included charging case supports four to five full recharges, delivering a combined battery life of up to 30 days or more.
Priced at $128, Smalth positions the Titanium Pro with the ECG ring as a health-focused wearable that works quietly in the background, offering advanced heart insights without screens, constant notifications, or complicated interaction. Its ceramic ring variant is priced at $88.
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Samsung has announced a major update to its Galaxy for the Planet initiative, outlining fresh environmental goals through 2030. After successfully meeting its earlier 2025 sustainability targets, the company is now widening its focus beyond product design and manufacturing to address broader ecological impact across its global operations.
Launched in 2021, Galaxy for the Planet serves as the sustainability framework for Samsung’s Mobile eXperience business. The company confirmed that it has achieved all four goals originally set for 2025, which were aimed at lowering environmental impact across mobile products and operations.
A key area of progress has been the increased use of recycled and responsibly sourced materials in Galaxy devices. Samsung now applies 10 types of recycled materials in both internal and external components, including plastics, glass and metals. It has also advanced circular initiatives such as recovering plastics from discarded fishing nets and strengthening its Circular Battery Supply Chain to reclaim materials from used batteries.
The company has phased out single-use plastics in mobile packaging, shifting to paper-based and recycled alternatives. Improvements in low standby power technology have reduced charger standby consumption to near-zero levels. In manufacturing, all qualifying mobile production sites have received Platinum certification under UL Solutions’ Zero Waste to Landfill standard, reflecting complete landfill diversion at those facilities.
With its initial targets achieved, Samsung is expanding its sustainability strategy for the remainder of the decade. The next phase centres on three priority areas: circularity, water stewardship and ecosystem conservation.
Samsung aims to include at least one recycled material in every module of every Galaxy mobile product, covering phones, tablets, PCs and watches. On water management, the company plans to return 110 percent of the water consumed in its mobile operations while pursuing the highest Alliance for Water Stewardship certification. It has also committed to conserving ecosystems equivalent to the footprint of its global mobile operations, focusing on habitat protection and biodiversity restoration.
Through these measures, Samsung is positioning sustainability as a long-term pillar of its innovation and operational strategy rather than a standalone initiative.
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Oppo has confirmed that the Find X9 Ultra will make its global debut later this year, signalling a major step for its premium Ultra lineup. The announcement was made during the company’s media event at MWC 2026 event in Barcelona, where executives highlighted the device’s strong focus on next-generation mobile photography.
The Find X9 Ultra will mark the first time Oppo’s Ultra platform expands beyond China. Positioned as “Built to Be Your Next Camera,” the device features an advanced imaging system developed in collaboration with Hasselblad. Oppo executives stated that the new Ultra model is designed to set a higher benchmark in smartphone photography. Complete specifications, pricing and regional rollout timelines will be shared closer to launch.
Reports indicate that the Find X9 Ultra may feature a 6.82-inch flat OLED display with 2K resolution, similar to its predecessor. While early engineering units are said to support a 144Hz refresh rate, the final retail version is expected to offer a 120Hz refresh rate.
On the camera front, the phone is tipped to include a quad-camera system comprising a 200-megapixel main sensor, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens, a 200-megapixel 3x periscope telephoto camera, and an additional 50-megapixel periscope lens. For selfies, it may feature a 50-megapixel front-facing camera.
Under the hood, the device is expected to run on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and ship with ColorOS 16 based on Android 16. The battery capacity is said to be around 7,050mAh, which is slightly lower than the Find X9 Pro’s 7,500mAh unit but larger than the 6,100mAh battery found in the Find X8 Ultra. Charging support may include 80W wired and 50W wireless speeds.
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Vivo officially unveiled the X300 Ultra at Mobile World Congress 2026, and now the company is sharing more details about the phone’s video chops.
In a post on Weibo, Vivo product manager Han Boxiao laid out what he calls the key camera upgrades coming to the X300 Ultra. According to him, the X300 Ultra is aiming to be a “pocket camera” for creators.
One of the headline features is what Vivo calls its “no secondary camera” Zeiss Master Lens Trinity. In practical terms, the company says all focal lengths — from wide to telephoto — will support 4K 120fps 10-bit Log recording. The same applies to 4K 120fps Dolby Vision capture and optical image stabilization across all focal lengths.
The consistency carries over into post-production. The X300 Ultra supports APV 422 professional video encoding, which Vivo claims brings output closer to what you’d expect from a dedicated camera.
Moreover, Log footage can load and apply 3D LUTs and custom LUTs during recording, enabling real-time color calibration on set. It’s also compatible with ACES workflows, so Log clips can drop into professional cinema pipelines without heavy conversion.
As for the audio, the X300 Ultra has a four-microphone system with six preset scenes designed to enhance target audio while reducing ambient noise.
For more casual use, Vivo is adding two cinematic color presets: Film Style and Film Look. These are designed to deliver more polished, one-tap results without requiring manual grading. The official says that sample photos and videos in these modes will be shared later.
The device is also tipped to feature a 6.82-inch 2K BOE flat display with narrow bezels and LTPO technology. It will pack the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip and a battery of around 7,000mAh capacity with 100W wired and 40W wireless charging support.
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At the launch of the iQOO 15 Ultra, a hardcore gaming phone, iQOO confirmed that the device achieved an impressive AnTuTu score of 4,518,403. Now, the upcoming OnePlus 15T has appeared on the same benchmarking platform, achieving a score just below the iQOO flagship.
The OnePlus 15T AnTuTu listing reveals a score of 4,455,423. In the CPU, GPU, memory, and UX tests, the device recorded 1,233,201, 1,565,952, 622,283, and 1,033,987 points, respectively. The scores are impressive considering it is not an aggressive gaming phone like the iQOO 15 Ultra.
Under the hood, the OnePlus 15T features the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, paired with 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 512GB of UFS 4.1 storage. The phone runs on Android 16 and appears to feature a 165Hz refresh rate display.
As seen in the listing, the OnePlus 15T carries the model number PLZ110. Previously, the same device was spotted with a 100W charger at China’s 3C certification in January.
Reports suggest that the OnePlus 15T may arrive with a 6.32-inch OLED panel with ultra-thin bezels, delivering 1.5K resolution and an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner embedded beneath the screen.
On the rear, the phone could offer two possible primary camera configurations. It may feature either a 200-megapixel Samsung HP5 main sensor or a 50-megapixel Sony IMX906 primary shooter, accompanied by a 50-megapixel Samsung JN5 periscope telephoto lens. On the front, it is expected to house a 32-megapixel selfie camera.
The handset is tipped to pack a large 7,500mAh battery with support for 100W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. It is also expected to come equipped with a Plus Key, a metal middle frame and carry an IP68/69 rating for dust and water resistance.
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At the MWC 2026 Vivo camp, the Vivo X300 Ultra is hogging the limelight. Designed for creators, the ultimate flagship phone will support a 400mm teleconverter kit with 17x optical zoom. However, another upcoming Vivo device quietly showcased at the exhibition is the Vivo Pad 6 Pro. The real device kept on display has revealed its design and confirmed its chipset.
The Vivo Pad 6 Pro was displayed with a keyboard accessory and stylus, positioned as a productivity-focused tablet. The device features slim and uniform bezels around the screen and appears to have a large display panel.
On the screen, the branding confirms it as the Vivo Pad 6 Pro, along with the tagline “Creativity, Wherever Inspiration Strikes.” The display is highlighted as a 4K True-Color Display with 4K Ultra HD viewing and a true-to-life immersive cinema experience.
A specification card placed beside the tablet confirms key hardware details. It mentions the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 mobile platform, signalling a shift towards Qualcomm’s latest flagship chipset for high-end performance. The overall setup, including the magnetic keyboard and stylus support, indicates that Vivo is targeting users looking for a laptop-like experience in a tablet form factor.
As per an earlier report, the Vivo Pad 6 Pro is expected to feature a 13.2-inch display, slightly larger than its predecessor. A high refresh rate panel, possibly 144Hz, is also being tipped. In terms of cameras, the tablet may include a 13-megapixel rear sensor and an 8-megapixel front camera for video calls and basic imaging needs.
The battery capacity is said to increase to around 13,000mAh, with support for up to 90W charging. The tablet is expected to launch in China soon, potentially alongside the Vivo X300 series. China will also get the iQOO Pad 6 Pro in the near future. This tablet could be a rebranded or slightly tweaked version of the Vivo Pad 6 Pro.
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Xiaomi has introduced a new floor-standing desk lamp in China called the Xiaomi Mijia Vertical Study Lamp 2. It’s the company’s latest attempt to turn something as ordinary as a study light into a spec-heavy smart home product. So let’s walk through the details here.
The lamp is designed for rooms up to 15 square meters, which makes it suitable for bedrooms or small home offices. Xiaomi says it uses long-lasting LED beads rated for up to 17 years of use. `
The company further claims the model boosts brightness by 27 percent compared to its predecessor. It delivers a total luminous flux of 12,700 lumens, with an average illuminance of over 1,800 lux in the central area. The uniformity in that center area is rated at 1.04.
The company also says the lamp produces almost no noticeable hand shadows under the light, something that could matter if you spend long hours writing or sketching at a desk.
Like many recent Xiaomi lighting products, the Study Lamp 2 focuses heavily on eye comfort. It supports anti-glare performance with a UGR rating below 13 and offers a high color rendering index of Ra98. The lamp also has a solar spectrum fitting coefficient above 0.985, which indicates that it simulates natural daylight more closely.
There’s also a smart layer. The lamp supports AI-based automatic dimming and can detect when someone is seated. It connects to the Mi Home app and works with Xiaomi’s broader smart ecosystem. Controls include touch interaction on the lamp post itself, as well as remote operation through the app and Xiaomi’s Super AI features.
The official price of the Xiaomi Mijia Vertical Study Lamp 2 is 2,499 yuan (~ $363). It is currently available at a launch price of 2,349 yuan (~ $350), with a national subsidy bringing the final price down to 1,996.65 yuan (~ $290).
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Apple has just officially unveiled the iPhone 17e as its most accessible gateway into the ecosystem. In the same way, the Pixel 10a, which debuted last month, is an entry-level phone from Google. Here’s a comparison between the two to know which one offers the best value.
The iPhone 17e sticks to a familiar blueprint, utilizing a design reminiscent of the iPhone 14. It features a 6.1-inch form factor with a notch, but Apple has upgraded the toughness with Ceramic Shield 2, which it claims is three times more scratch-resistant.
In contrast, the Pixel 10a introduces a radical shift in Google’s design language by featuring a completely flush dual-camera system, removing the signature “visor” bump. It is slightly larger with a 6.3-inch display and uses a matte composite back. While the iPhone feels more “premium” with its glass back, the Pixel’s flat design is arguably more modern.
This is where the two devices diverge most sharply. The iPhone 17e remains capped at a 60Hz refresh rate, which may feel dated to power users in 2026. However, its Super Retina XDR panel is incredibly color-accurate and bright enough for most outdoor conditions at 1200 nits peak.
The Pixel 10a wins the spec war here with a 120Hz Actua display. It offers much smoother scrolling and animations, and its peak brightness hits a massive 3000 nits. If you consume a lot of media or play games, the Pixel’s smoother and brighter panel provides a clear hardware advantage.
Under the hood, the iPhone 17e is a powerhouse, packing the same A19 chip found in the standard iPhone 17. Built on a 3nm process, it offers class-leading raw performance and efficiency. It is also the most affordable way to access Apple Intelligence, bringing features like Live Translation and Clean Up to a wider audience.
Google has taken a different route, equipping the Pixel 10a with the Tensor G4 rather than the flagship G5. While it lacks the raw benchmark scores of the A19, the G4 is optimized for Google’s Gemini AI. Features like Gemini Live and Magic Cue run natively, making the Pixel feel like a “smart” companion that anticipates your needs, backed by a staggering 7 years of OS updates.
The Apple iPhone 17e features a single 48-megapixel Fusion camera. While it lacks an ultrawide lens, Apple uses sensor cropping to offer an “optical-quality” 2x telephoto mode. Its strength lies in video recording (4K/60fps with Dolby Vision) and consistent natural skin tones.
On the other hand, the Pixel 10a offers a dual-setup with a 48-megapixel main and a 13-megapixel ultrawide sensor. This gives you more versatility for landscape shots. Google’s computational photography remains the gold standard for still images, especially with Night Sight and the new AI-powered editing tools.
The Pixel 10a is a marathon runner with its 5100mAh battery and support for 45W wired charging. The iPhone 17e has a smaller 4005mAh battery, but iOS efficiency ensures it still lasts a full day. Notably, the 17e finally brings MagSafe to Apple’s budget line, a huge win for accessory fans.
In terms of pricing, the Pixel 10a starts at $499 for the 25GB version, while the iPhone 17e starts higher at $599, though Apple has doubled the base storage to 256GB this year.
Choosing between the iPhone 17e and the Pixel 10a ultimately comes down to whether you prioritize a refined, high-performance ecosystem or cutting-edge display and AI features at a lower price point.
The iPhone 17e is the “safe” and powerful choice. It offers the best-in-class A19 chip, ensuring that this phone will remain fast for years to come. If you are already tied to iMessage, iCloud, and Apple Watch, or if video quality is your top priority, the 17e is a massive upgrade over previous budget models. The addition of Apple Intelligence and the jump to 256GB base storage makes the higher price tag much easier to swallow.
On the other hand, the Pixel 10a is the clear winner for tech enthusiasts who want the best hardware for their money. Its 120Hz display makes the iPhone’s 60Hz screen look dated, and the inclusion of an ultrawide lens provides photographic flexibility that Apple’s single-sensor setup simply cannot match. If you want a phone that feels “smarter” with its deeply integrated Gemini AI and you prefer a smoother visual experience, the Pixel 10a is the superior value proposition in 2026.
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Just days after details surfaced about the Honor 600, we’re now getting a full look at another member of the lineup, the Honor 600 Lite. German outlet WinFuture has published a batch of official-looking renders alongside a rundown of the phone’s core specs.
The information appears to originate from a listing by a Singapore-based retailer, suggesting the device may be close to launch.
The Honor 600 Lite will ship with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. The listed price is 399 Singapore dollars, which roughly converts to around $315.
The renders show a fairly clean design with a pill-shaped notch on the front. On the right side of the frame, there’s a dedicated shutter button. Around the back, the camera module sits inside a rectangular bump that stands out slightly from the rear panel.
The Honor 600 Lite will be available in Velvet Black and Desert Gold options. The black version looks understated, while the gold model leans more toward a softer, muted finish.
As for the display, the Honor 600 Lite is said to feature a 6.6-inch AMOLED panel with a resolution of 2600 x 1200. It’s rated for peak HDR brightness of 6,500 nits. It also reportedly carries an IP66 rating for water resistance.
Under the hood, the phone is expected to run on the MediaTek Dimensity 7100 Elite processor. Furthermore, the leak reveals a 6,250mAh battery paired with 45W wired charging support.
On the camera side, the front houses a 16-megapixel f/2.2 selfie camera. On the back, there’s a 10.8-megapixel f/1.75 main sensor and a 5-megapixel ultra-wide camera. There’s no telephoto lens, which isn’t surprising at this price point, but it does mean zoom capabilities will likely rely on digital cropping.
It’s not yet confirmed when Honor will announce this smartphone. However, its appearance in the retailer listing suggests that the launch isn’t too far off.
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(Source)
The post Honor 600 Lite full specs revealed, has a 6520mAh battery, and Dimensity 7100 Elite chip appeared first on Gizmochina.
The OnePlus 15T compact flagship phone is poised to launch this month in China. Ahead of its debut, OnePlus China President Li Jie has shared the first real-life image of the device, highlighting the ultra-thin bezels the 15T is expected to feature.
In the shared image, the OnePlus 15T is placed on the left, while the Apple iPhone 17 Pro appears on the right. The executive stated that the 15T will feature the visually narrowest bezels on a compact phone. He hinted that the bezel size is around 1.xx mm without revealing the exact figure. In comparison, the iPhone 17 Pro is said to have 1.44mm bezels.
He added that this achievement was made possible due to a brand-new chip-level packaging system and a series of groundbreaking screen packaging technologies developed in-house by the company. Yesterday, the same executive confirmed that the 15T will have a periscope telephoto camera and offer an enhanced battery life.
According to reports, the OnePlus 15T could feature a 6.32-inch OLED display offering a 1.5K resolution, a 165Hz refresh rate, and an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor. For selfies, it may include a 32-megapixel front camera.
The rear camera setup may either include a 200-megapixel Samsung HP5 primary sensor or a 50-megapixel Sony IMX906 primary camera, paired with a 50-megapixel Samsung JN5 periscope telephoto camera. The device is unlikely to feature an ultra-wide camera.
Under the hood, the 15T could be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and pack a battery with a capacity of around 7,500mAh. It may support 100W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. The device is also expected to include a Plus Key and feature an IP68/69-rated dustproof and water-resistant chassis.
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Xiaomi is reportedly working on the Xiaomi 18 lineup for the Chinese market. So far, the lineup is expected to include the Xiaomi 18, 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and 18 Ultra. The Ultra edition may debut by the end of this year, whereas the other three models may go official in September in China. A new leak, courtesy of tipster Digital Chat Station, has revealed that the entire lineup will feature a 200-megapixel camera.
The new leak suggests that the current engineering samples of the entire Xiaomi 18 series are equipped with a 200-megapixel camera backed by a large 1/1.28-inch sensor. The tipster added that this generation is said to feature a dual 200-megapixel imaging system, described internally as a landmark upgrade for the brand’s camera capabilities.
As per previous reports, the Xiaomi 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max may both sport dual 200-megapixel cameras in their rear setup. These could be used for the primary and periscope telephoto cameras.
The standard Xiaomi 17 has a telephoto camera in its rear camera setup. However, rumors surrounding the Xiaomi 18 suggest that it will be equipped with a periscope telephoto camera. Related rumors also suggest that the Xiaomi 18’s periscope telephoto camera will feature a 200-megapixel sensor.
Speaking of the standard Xiaomi 18, it may arrive with a slight increase in display size, reaching 6.4 inches compared to 6.3 inches on the Xiaomi 17. As far as the chipset is concerned, the Xiaomi 18, 18 Pro, and 18 Pro Max are all expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 chip. Likely, the Xiaomi 18 Ultra could be equipped with the more powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro SoC.
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At MWC 2026, Qualcomm introduced the Snapdragon Wear Elite platform, signalling a fresh push into premium wearable silicon. The new chip is aimed at upcoming Wear OS smartwatches, including future Galaxy Watch models, while also expanding into AI-driven wearable devices. It marks a clear shift in Qualcomm’s wearable strategy toward stronger performance and deeper on-device intelligence.
The Snapdragon Wear Elite is built on a 3nm process and adopts a big.LITTLE architecture for the first time in Qualcomm’s wearable lineup. It features a single prime core clocked at 2.1GHz alongside four efficiency cores running at 1.95GHz. Compared to the earlier Snapdragon W5+ Gen 2, Qualcomm claims up to five times better single-core CPU performance, which should translate into faster app launches, smoother multitasking and quicker boot times.
Graphics performance also sees a notable jump, with the Adreno GPU delivering up to seven times higher peak frame rates and support for 1080p at 60fps. A dedicated Hexagon NPU enables on-device AI models with up to two billion parameters, supporting use cases such as real-time transcription, contextual recommendations, voice interaction and AI agents. An additional low-power AI engine handles always-on tasks like keyword detection and activity recognition without heavily impacting battery life.
Qualcomm says devices powered by Snapdragon Wear Elite can offer up to 30 percent longer usage compared to the previous generation. Fast charging support allows compatible watches with 300 to 600mAh batteries to reach 50 percent charge in around 10 minutes at 9V.
On connectivity, the chip integrates Wi-Fi 802.11ax, Bluetooth 6.0, UWB, GNSS, 5G RedCap and NB-NTN satellite support. Micro-power Wi-Fi enables lower energy consumption for continuous syncing, while UWB opens up secure unlock and proximity-based features. Qualcomm expects the first commercial devices running Snapdragon Wear Elite to arrive in the coming months, with partners including Google and Samsung onboard.
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BYD's Blade Battery 2.0 debuts in Yangwang U7: Four motors and 1,006 km range coexist for first time.
The post BYD’s new Yangwang U7 first to feature Blade Battery 2.0: achieves 1,006 km range with quad motors appeared first on CarNewsChina.com.
The post Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse Says THIS as Trump Calls Out Banks Over Crypto Bill appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News
A fresh political push for crypto legislation is stirring debate across Washington and the digital asset industry.
U.S. President Donald Trump issued a forceful statement backing the CLARITY Act and warning that major banks should not undermine what he described as America’s crypto agenda.
In his remarks, Trump said the “Genius Act” was being threatened by banks and stressed that the United States must finalize market structure legislation as soon as possible. He argued that Americans deserve the opportunity to earn more on their money and warned that delays could push innovation to countries like China.
Trump framed the legislation as part of a broader effort to position the U.S. as the “Crypto Capital of the World,” adding that the industry should not be stalled by traditional financial institutions protecting their interests.
Reacting to Trump’s comments, Brad Garlinghouse described the statement as “an extremely pointed message” to lawmakers and stakeholders who have slowed progress on the CLARITY Act.
An extremely pointed message from @POTUS to those who are dragging their feet on CLARITY.
— Brad Garlinghouse (@bgarlinghouse) March 3, 2026
This is, and always has been, about what’s in the best interest of the American people. pic.twitter.com/t1CIFBOBg4
Garlinghouse’s response quickly gained traction within the XRP community, where regulatory clarity has long been viewed as essential to long-term growth.
The CEO of Ripple has repeatedly argued that the absence of clear digital asset rules in the U.S. has placed domestic firms at a disadvantage compared to international competitors. His latest reaction shows growing alignment between parts of the crypto industry and political voices calling for immediate action.
The discussion expanded beyond Ripple.
Mike Selig also backed publicly backed Trump’s stance, stating that the CLARITY Act must pass to establish a future-proof digital asset market structure. He added that the Commodity Futures Trading Commission is prepared to implement the framework under the current administration.
Across social platforms, reactions reflected frustration with perceived delays. Several users questioned why banks should have influence over legislation that could introduce competition to their business models. Others argued that clear rules would unlock innovation, attract builders and accelerate U.S. leadership in blockchain development.
A recurring theme in the responses was urgency. Many commenters warned that Congress is running out of time and called for immediate passage of the bill to prevent the U.S. from falling behind in global crypto adoption.
At its core, the debate centers on market structure.
The CLARITY Act tries to define how digital assets are classified and regulated, potentially drawing clearer boundaries between securities and commodities oversight. For years, regulatory uncertainty has been cited as one of the biggest obstacles facing crypto companies operating in the United States.
Trump’s statement framed the issue as one of national competitiveness. He suggested that failing to finalize crypto legislation could shift innovation and capital overseas. That message resonates strongly with industry leaders who argue that regulatory ambiguity has already slowed domestic progress.
The post Stablecoins Weaken Eurozone Monetary Policy Transmission: European Central Bank appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News
In a March 3 report titled “Stablecoins and Monetary Policy Transmission”, the European Central Bank (ECB) warned that increased stablecoin adoption was undermining financial stability and policy effectiveness in the eurozone.
According to the ECB, as more people swap the euro for these virtual currencies, banks lose a stable and low-cost source of funding from retail deposits.
This forces them to switch to the more expensive wholesale funding that comes with volatile interest rates for both the banks and the customers they lend to.
ECB estimates that for every 10% increase in stablecoin market cap, there will be a 0.2% reduction in bank lending. It further adds that interest cuts to stimulate the economy would be useless, since banks will have tightened their lending policies to keep their operations afloat.
The ECB adds that widespread adoption would import US monetary conditions to Europe since most (85%+) of these digital currencies are dollar-backed.
The ECB projects a non-linear pattern to these effects, saying that they would accelerate should the digital currency market cap hit $2-$4 trillion by 2030.
Source: European Central Bank
To counter these risks, the ECB is promoting the digital euro, which it says is safer from a bank run than private stablecoins
As of March 4, 2026, the global stablecoin market capitalization was approximately $316.27 billion. While this is dwarfed by the eurozone’s €17 trillion bank deposits, its growth is notable since it has more than doubled in the past three years.
Despite this, the banking industry is strongly pursuing a stablecoin-yield ban with the upcoming CLARITY Act. US President Donald Trump has vowed to look into this, saying, “They (banks) need to make a good deal with the crypto industry.”
America can’t afford to wait. Congress must move quickly to pass the Clarity Act.
— Senator Cynthia Lummis (@SenLummis) March 3, 2026
Let’s make the U.S. the digital asset capital of the world. https://t.co/bL9WOeOkZr
French Hill, the Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, recently suggested the Senate could simply label stablecoins as a payment device rather than an investment product, just as stipulated by the GENIUS Act.
Moderator: “You also need to figure out crypto.” Chairman of @FinancialCmte @RepFrenchHill: “Well, I have figured it out!”
— Eleanor Terrett (@EleanorTerrett) March 3, 2026
Hill, at the @MilkenInstitute Future of Finance event, said that if the Senate can’t reach a straightforward conclusion on the stablecoin yield issue,… pic.twitter.com/rZQch3IQUc
Meanwhile, TD Cowen multinational investment bank, said banks will likely lose the stablecoin-yield fight.
Last season it was Don Bosco Prep (NJ) that traveled down to the Lone Star State for a regular season football game, but on Tuesday another a New Jersey high school football powerhouse announced its intention to head out to Texas.
According to a social media announcement via Instagram, Camden (NJ) football shared that they will be traveling to Texas to take on the storied Permian Panthers, the featured team of the popular 2004 film ‘Friday Night Lights.’
Camden last season made program history, winning the 2025 New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) Group 2 state championship, defeating Malcolm X Shabazz, 27-8. Now the Panthers are making history once again, becoming the first New Jersey public school to travel down to Texas for a regular season high school football game.
Permian, which finished No. 74 in the final 2025 Texas high school football rankings. had its strongest season in a decade in 2025 when they went 11-2 and fell to state powerhouse Allen, 56-13, in the UIL Class 6A, Division I postseason.
The Panthers of the Garden State ended this past season finishing at No. 14 in the final 2025 New Jersey high school football rankings. Top returner on offense for Camden is junior running back Roman Duckett, who rushed for 730 yards and scored nine touchdowns last fall.
Camden High School in Camden, New Jersey, offers a diverse athletic program encompassing sports such as football, basketball, and track. The school emphasizes both athletic and academic achievement, providing students with opportunities to excel in various sports while promoting discipline, teamwork, and leadership. Camden High boasts dedicated coaching staff and modern facilities to support its student-athletes in reaching their goals and competing at high levels.
For New Jersey high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the Garden State, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the state, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the New Jersey high school football excitement across the state.
LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) — Xavier Edmonds had 20 points and 12 rebounds as TCU got another big win in its late push to get into the NCAA Tournament, winning 73-65 at No. 10 Texas Tech on Tuesday night.
Edmonds' putback layup with 31 seconds left pushed the lead to 71-65 for Horned Frogs (20-10, 10-7 Big 12), who have won seven of their last eight games. It was their third win this season against a top-10 team, including a win over then-No. 5 Iowa State during this stretch.
Texas Tech (22-8, 12-5) had won three games in a row since losing standout post J.T. Toppin to a season-ending torn ACL in his right knee. The Red Raiders, who finish 14-2 at home, had moved up six spots in this week's AP Top 25 poll, matching their season-opening ranking after going to the Elite Eight last season.
Micah Robinson scored 15 points for the Frogs, and Jayden Pierre had 14. David Punch, their leading scorer, was limited to six points while having foul issues, but still had 10 rebounds.
Donovan Atwell led Tech with 19 points and five 3-pointers, extending his single-season school record to 115. Jaylen Petty scored 17, while Christian Anderson had 11 points and nine assists.
Two free throws by Edmonds with 9:13 left snapped a 50-all tie and put TCU ahead to stay. A 3-pointer by Liutauras Lelevicius with 2:06 remaining stretched the lead to nine points, though Atwell had a steal that led to a layup for Petty before he made his last 3 for Tech's final points with 46 seconds left.
TCU: Hosts Cincinnati on Saturday.
Texas Texas: Closes its regular season at BYU on Saturday.
___
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The Giants have informed linebacker Bobby Okereke that they are releasing him at the start of the league year on March 11, according to Jordan Schultz of The Schultz Report.
Okereke was entering the final year of a four-year, $40 million contract, and his release will save them $9 million this season.
He started all 17 games in 2025, totaling 143 tackles, a sack, two interceptions and six passes defensed.
In his three seasons with the Giants, Okereke recorded 385 tackles, 5.5 sacks, four interceptions, seven forced fumbles and 19 pass breakups.
Okereke, who turns 30 on July 29, played four seasons in Indianapolis after the Colts made him a third-round pick in 2019.
NEW YORK — Zuby Ejiofor scored 23 points, Joson Sanon added 15 off the bench — all after halftime — and No. 18 St. John’s rallied from 12 down in the second half to beat skidding Georgetown 72-69 on Tuesday night.
With a gritty comeback on Senior Night at Madison Square Garden, the Red Storm (24-6, 17-2 Big East) tied No. 4 UConn atop the conference standings with one regular-season game remaining. A victory Friday night at Hudson River rival Seton Hall would give the Johnnies at least a share of their second consecutive Big East regular-season championship following a 32-year drought.
The only time they’ve won back-to-back league crowns was 1985 and ’86.
Dylan Darling had 12 points for St. John’s, which has won 15 of 16 overall and 11 straight meetings with Georgetown — the longest streak for either school in a series that dates to 1909.
COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS — If Kentucky basketball has a desperate foe in front of it, one fighting for its life as an NCAA Tournament bubble team, pick that club to win.
Might sound harsh to some.
But it's simply the truth.
One need look no further than Tuesday for the latest example.
Entering this week, Texas A&M was no guarantee to be part of the Big Dance this year, positioned among the group of teams that would the last in — or first out — if Selection Sunday were at hand. The only way for the Aggies to play themselves into better circumstances would be more high-profile wins; one against the NCAA shoo-in Wildcats would fit the bill.
A&M picked up that much-needed victory. Resoundingly.
After UK went up 30-18 with a hair more than eight minutes remaining in Tuesday's first half, the visitors went ice cold. And the Aggies turned white hot, scoring 27 of the final 30 points of the half to take a 45-33 advantage into the locker room.
Whatever halftime adjustments UK attempted to make didn't work: It went on to lose, 96-85, at Reed Arena.
For Kentucky (19-11, 10-7 SEC) and coach Mark Pope, it was the third time in the past two weeks they had an opportunity to deny a bubble team's hopes at a Quad 1 win. For the third time in the past two weeks, the Wildcats came up empty.
The other setbacks were at the hands of Georgia and Auburn, respectively.
The startling aspect of all three: Kentucky held leads. But couldn't hold onto them.
Up by eight on Georgia in the first half, only to lose by eight. Up by nine on Auburn in the second half, only to lose at the buzzer by one. And UK had its largest advantage of all Tuesday with that aforementioned dozen-point lead, which Texas A&M (20-10, 10-7) erased in less than four minutes.
Tuesday's loss, one sided as it was (UK's push in the final 10 minutes simply looks good for the final score; it never threatened A&M in any substantive way), changes little for the Wildcats in the grand scheme. Their NCAA Tournament standing wasn't in question. Kentucky merely was playing for another win — perhaps improving its chances at a double-bye in the SEC Tournament via a top-four finish in the regular season.
That appears to be out of the realm of possibility now.
What's far more worrisome, however, is the Wildcats' inability to match the manic, win-at-all-costs energy of the Bulldogs, Tigers and Aggies. Once March Madness arrives, every team will be on edge. Aware their season is hanging in the balance. A loss would be all she wrote.
We've seen other teams rise to the challenge when their backs were against the wall.
Kentucky can't say the same just yet.
This story will be updated.
Reach Kentucky men’s basketball and football reporter Ryan Black at rblack@gannett.com and follow him on X at @RyanABlack.
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky basketball vs Texas A&M score, UK Wildcats fold at Aggies
NORMAN, Okla. (AP) — Jadon Jones led with 13 points and eight rebounds, three other players tallied 12 points, and Oklahoma defeated Missouri, 80-64 on Tuesday night.
Xzayvier Brown, Tae Davis, and Derrion Reid scored 12 points each for the Sooners (16-14, 6-11 Southeastern Conference), who won their third straight contest and fifth of their last seven.
Mohamed Wague added 11 points and seven rebounds for Oklahoma. Jones was a perfect 5-for-5 from the field and 3-for-3 from deep as the Sooners shot 62% and 55% as a team, respectively.
The Sooners led for all but 1:59 of game time, taking the lead for good on Jones' first 3-pointer with 12:29 remaining in the first half. They extended their lead to as many as 12 points in the first half, and took a 35-26 advantage into halftime.
A strong second half held the lead in double-figures for a comfortable win.
Mark Mitchell led Mizzou (20-10, 10-7) with 17 points on 6-for-6 shooting. Anthony Robinson II added 14 points before fouling out.
Missouri: hosts No. 20 Arkansas on Saturday.
Oklahoma: visits Texas on Saturday.
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CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (AP) — Luka Bogavac hit six 3-pointers and scored a career-best 20 points as No. 17 North Carolina beat Clemson 67-63 Tuesday night and set a program record by going 18-0 at home.
Henri Veesaar scored 13 points before fouling out in the final minute and Jarin Stevenson had nine points and 10 rebounds as the Tar Heels (24-6, 12-6 Atlantic Coast Conference) won their fourth straight game heading into a weekend rematch with No. 1 Duke.
North Carolina's unbeaten run at home was its first in nine years.
RJ Godfrey scored a career-high 22 points on 10-for-13 shooting for Clemson (21-9, 11-6). Godfrey's only point in the final 8½ minutes came on a free throw with 1:25 remaining that cut the deficit to 61-59. Carter Welling added 13 points.
Bogavac sank both ends of a 1-and-1 with 12.2 seconds left for a 66-63 edge. Clemson’s Dillon Hunter drove to the lane and missed on the next possession.
Bogavac went 6 for 10 from 3-point distance and doubled his previous season high for baskets from distance. He hit three 3s in a 2½ minute stretch to put the Tar Heels up 59-55 with just more than four minutes to play.
North Carolina, which trailed 30-27 at halftime, wiped out a five-point deficit in the second half with a 12-0 run. Stevenson scored the final six points in the outburst. The Tigers scored the next seven points and it was tight for the final 12 minutes.
North Carolina played its sixth consecutive game without leading scorer Caleb Wilson, who is out with a broken bone in his left hand.
Clemson had never won in Chapel Hill in 59 visits until 2020. The Tigers were bidding for their third victory in the last four trips.
Clemson: Host Georgia Tech on Saturday.
North Carolina: At No. 1 Duke on Saturday.
___
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The international window for Brazilian football closed this Tuesday (3).
However, Brazilian clubs have until March 27 to sign players who play in national football.
We, at OneFootball, have prepared a summary of what moved the football market in the country this Tuesday!
Check it out below and leave your comment!
Tuesday began with the bombshell that the Flamengo board dropped in the early hours.
Filipe Luís, champion of the 2024 Copa do Brasil, and the 2025 Brasileirão and Libertadores, was dismissed after the 8-0 thrashing (11-0 on aggregate) over Madureira in the Cariocão semifinals.
Besides the surprising dismissal of the coach, Rodrigo Caio also left Flamengo.
The Flamengo board has already secured the signing of Portuguese Leonardo Jardim to replace Filipe Luís.
The former Cruzeiro coach has already arrived in Rio de Janeiro and should be announced soon.
The idea of the Flamengo board is to resolve the bureaucratic procedures in time for Leonardo Jardim to be on the bench at Maracanã next Sunday (8), in the Cariocão final against Fluminense.
The Timão gave up on signing goalkeeper João Ricardo from Fortaleza after medical examinations.
Without João Ricardo, Corinthians inquired about the situation of goalkeeper Neto at Botafogo and submitted a loan proposal to the Rio club.
As the window for the national market remains open until March 27, negotiations are ongoing.
The renewal was already defined, but the new contract of Marcos Antônio with the Tricolor Paulista was registered in the CBF BID.
The detail is the release clause: 900 million reais if the departure is to a Brazilian club - Flamengo showed interest in signing the midfielder.
Peixe announced the signing of Lucas Veríssimo.
The 30-year-old defender returns to the club where he was formed and signs a three-year contract.
Santos paid 5 million euros (about R$ 30.5 million) for the signing of Lucas Veríssimo from Al Duhail, Qatar.
Cruz-Maltino insisted and managed to secure the signing of coach Renato Gaúcho to replace Fernando Diniz.
The 63-year-old coach signed a contract until the end of 2026 with Vasco, a club he coached between 2005-2007 and 2008.
Verdão hasn't announced anyone, but coach Abel Ferreira commented on Flamengo's decision to dismiss Filipe Luís.
Besides the Portuguese coach, Leila Pereira, president of Palmeiras, took a jab at the rival Rio club's board.
It took longer than the fans expected, but the Tricolor Carioca announced the reinforcements of Colombian defender Julián Millán, ex-Nacional, and forward Rodrigo Castillo.
In the video announcing Castillo, Fluminense remembered the former goalkeeper and idol of the 40s, 50s, and 60s, Carlos Castilho (who gives his name to the training center), who once cut his own finger to not miss games for his beloved club.
Besides the announcements, Fluminense submitted a loan proposal until the end of the year, with a purchase option, to São Paulo for midfielder Alisson.
The player worked with coach Luis Zubeldía at Tricolor Paulista and would join the Rio club to replace Lima, who was transferred to América do México.
Alisson, in turn, who doesn't have a good atmosphere at São Paulo after having "closed" with Corinthians, might "breathe new air".
Glorioso secured the loan of Júnior Santos from Atlético-MG.
According to journalist Venê Casagrande, the purchase option is the same amount that Galo paid Botafogo in January 2025: 8 million dollars (about R$ 42.2 million).
Leão da Ilha do Retiro announced midfielder Biel and defender Zé Marcos.
Laion announced the loan signing of forward Welliton Matheus from Primavera, a club that competed in the 2026 Paulistão.
After the dismissal of Juan Carlos Osorio, who led the Pará club in only 14 matches, Remo is close to hiring coach Léo Condé.
And Remo also announced the signing of Cameroonian defender Duplexe Tchamba.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.
North Carolina finished their season a perfect 18-0 with their 67-63 win over Clemson on Tuesday night. The win also put the Tar Heels one step closer to securing a double bye in the ACC Tournament next week. Clemson closed the first half on a 7-0 run that put them up 30-27, but the Heels turned it on in the second half behind Luka Bogavac.
Bogavac was a force in the second half, scoring 17 of his season-high 20 points. He hit six three-pointers, the only Tar Heel to do so in a single game this season. His team needed virtually every single one of those points as Clemson refused to go away. Henri Veesaar was the only other Tar Heel in double figures with 13 points and six rebounds, but he fouled out late. A couple big shots by Seth Trimble and Derek Dixon helped slam the door in Veesaar’s absence. Trimble, Dixon, and Jarin Stevenson all finished the game with nine points.
Clemson out-shot the Heels, 45%-40%, in the second half. The big difference was Bogavac’s threes and UNC’s 9-13 mark from the free throw line. The Tigers were limited to just six attempts at the free throw line for the game. After turning the ball over six times in the first half, UNC turned it over just three times in the second half.
The Tigers got 22 points from RJ Godfrey to lead their scoring. Just one other player, Carter Welling, ended up in double figures. Godfrey’s efforts were nearly enough, though, as he went 10-13 from the floor and grabbed nine rebounds.
It was very nice to see Bogavac be the shooter he was billed as coming into the season. It certainly came at a great time with hopefully more to come. The Tar Heels have absolutely weathered the storm without their best player aside from the absolute stinker in Raleigh. It’s been pretty much the best anyone could have hoped for as new players stepped up to fill the void.
UNC closes out the regular season on Saturday in Durham when they take on Duke. Perhaps it will also be the return of Caleb Wilson. We will see.
INDIAN WELLS, Calif. — For the next two weeks, all eyes in the tennis world will be focused on an amazing 54-acre, 29-court complex not far from Palm Springs.
The first week of March brings with it a tournament that both men and women look forward to competing in. The game’s best players are competing for millions of dollars in prize money as well as rankings points.
Officially, it’s called the BNP Paribas Open. Most of you simply refer to it as Indian Wells. Perhaps you’ve been there and seen for yourself what a party Larry Ellison has created at his Indian Wells Tennis Gardens.
There’s the 16,100-seat main Stadium 1, second in size only to Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York at the U.S. Open as the largest tennis venue in the world. There’s action seemingly ongoing on the side courts, where a lot of spectators gravitate to for an up-close view of the players.
Of course, there’s the food and drink options which are plentiful as you would expect. And if you need a break from tennis, there’s a band stage where you can chill out to various musical entertainers.
The players love it because they are pampered even more than usual and the vibe, call it California cool, makes even the most hardened and cynical performer relax and enjoy.
But it’s also a challenge to win here.
“It’s one of the tough tournaments, honestly, to win because of how drastic the conditions can change from morning to night, windy, cold, hot, dry,” said Jessica Pegula. “It’s a very wide variety and I think you have to be able to adapt really well.”
There’s also $9.41 million in prize money up for grabs. It’s little wonder then that the top players on both the men’s and women’s side are here to compete. They call it “The 5th Slam” for a reason. It’s a stop they all look forward to making, having recovered from January’s Australian Open and can use this event to get ready for what lies ahead, including May’s French Open in Paris.
And given the tournament is being played on U.S. soil, there’s a healthy contingent of Americans in the field. Leading the way on the men’s side is Taylor Fritz of Rancho Santa Fe, the highest-ranked American at No. 7. He won this event in 2022 and living a little more than two hours away, the 28-year-old Fritz comes as close as anyone to having a home-court advantage.
Fritz said Sunday while competing in the MGM Slam at T-Mobile Arena that he likes where his game is at heading into Indian Wells. He got to the round of 16 before falling to fifth-ranked Lorenzo Musetti and went three sets with Ben Shelton before losing in the final of the Dallas Open.
“I feel pretty good about my game in general,” Fritz said. “I’ve been able to play more consistently and practice more consistently so from repetition, things are starting to click.
“I’m serving well and I feel like I’m hitting my ground strokes well and it’s just a matter of adjusting to the conditions and dialing in a few things.”
He leads a strong group of Californians in the field. There’s Irvine’s Learner Tien, who is ranked No. 27 in the world. Veteran Brandon Nakashima of San Diego is ranked 30th, Sacramento’s Jenson Brooksby is ranked No. 41 and Alex Michelsen of Laguna Hills is ranked No. 44.
Of course, there’s Shelton, Tommy Paul, Frances Tiafoe, Reilly Opelka and Sebastian Korda, all ranked in the top 70, with Shelton right behind Fritz at No. 8.
Whether any of them can break through against Carlos Alcaraz, the world’s No. 1, Jannik Sinner, Novak Djokovic, the world’s top three players, is problematic.
It may be tougher for the American women as the last time a female from the USA won here was 2001 when Serena Williams held the championship trophy. Coco Gauff, Pegula and Amanda Anisimova, who are ranked nos. 4-5-6 respectively in the WTA rankings, will have to deal with Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek and Elena Rybakina, the top three ranked women’s players.
All three Americans are capable of beating the top three on any given day so there is some intrigue on the women’s side. Iva Jovic of Torrence, who is currently ranked No. 18, will try and enter the conversation with a deep run. She figures to get a lot of local support from her fellow Southern Californians.
And of course, there’s Venus.
At age 45, Venus Williams still loves to play. She received a wild card entry into the main draw and while her stay is likely to be a brief one, the fact she is still competing says a lot about her love of the sport.
She played last week in Austin, losing to Ajla Tomljanovic 6-4, 6-1. Her last singles victory came last July in Washington when she won her first-round match over Peyton Stearns, 6-3, 6-4.
Last year, over half a million people attended the tournament. The numbers this year figure to be comparable, especially considering the weather is going to be ideal for most of the two weeks and the quality of the field.
Storylines abound. Can Alcaraz reclaim the crown he lost to Jack Draper a year ago? Can Fritz or another American find a way to hold the trophy? Will an American woman finally win here for the first time since Serena?
Whatever happens, it figures to be memorable. It usually is here in the desert.
The 2026 league year is coming up very soon. It officially begins at 1 p.m. Arizona time on March 11, with the legal negotiating period beginning on March 9 at 9 a.m. Arizona time.
The Arizona Cardinals have several roster decisions to make before then.
Leading up to the new league year, we will profile every player on the roster, go over what they did last season, what their contract status is and what they face in 2026.
Next up is safety Jalen Thompson.
In his seven seasons with the Cardinals, Thompson has been a consistent presence in the secondary. Last season, he played and started 15 of 17 games and was first on the team with 58 solo tackles and third with 95 overall tackles. He added six passes defensed, one interception and played 98 percent of the snaps (980) in the games he played. Versatility was significant as Thompson alternated between safety and the slot, especially when Garrett Williams was unavailable because of injuries.
Unless re-signed, he will become an unrestrict6ed free agent after 1 p.m. on March 11. In 2025, Thompson’s base salary was $7.56 million with a $13.7 million salary-cap charge. With 2026 a void year, there will be a $3.621 cap hit for the final year of signing- and option-bonus proration from his previous contracts.
He will be 28 in July and still can be productive. The question is what the market will be. It appears unlikely Thompson will return, but don’t rule it out if he hits the market and doesn’t attract a deal he likes.
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: Jalen Thompson's contract status and 2026 offseason outlook
The Michigan Wolverines made a stunning hire recently to its college football program, but viral staffer Skylar Phan is making waves for her bombshell appearance.
Kyle Whittingham is entering his first season as Michigan’s head coach, but his newest hire might be getting a lot of attention in her own right.
After spending recent years with USC and Texas, Skylar Phan now joins the Wolverines’ front office to help Michigan recruiting. Most recently, Phan served as director of recruiting strategy with the Trojans.
MORE: Livvy Dunne teams up with LSU football coach Lane Kiffin for unlikely TikTok video
Michigan hires Skylar Phan, to personnel department.
— TJ Ronin (@Tj_Ronin) March 3, 2026
Potential roles: Overseeing all officials and unofficial visits.
Formerly:
Director of Recruiting Strategy for USC
Recruiting Assistant for Texas#GoBluepic.twitter.com/KkZ16fzttM
Social media has been significantly aware of Phan’s presence since rumors started about the Wolverines bringing her in for a role. Phan enters the next chapter of her career after spending less than two years with the Trojans’ recruiting department.
According to 247Sports, Phan helped secure USC’s number one group for the 2026 recruiting class. Meanwhile, the former Las Vegas Raiders intern has shot up the ranks with various programs during her quick rise.
Skylar Phan moved on to roles with Houston and North Texas before landing higher-profile gigs with the Texas Longhorns and USC.
MORE: Iowa OT compared to Sydney Sweeney after viral NFL Combine moment
Michigan Wolverines football head coach Kyle Whittingham speaks to the crowd before the USC Trojans college basketball game. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
While Phan’s move marks a clear shift for Michigan, the Wolverines will certainly rely on her for similar results in recruiting. Michigan has the 12th-best football recruiting class for 2026, trailing other Big Ten teams like USC, Oregon and Ohio State.
The 2025 season marked a huge disappointment for Michigan after missing out on the College Football Playoff, Meanwhile, the Big Ten still had massive success in the CFP as the Indiana Hoosiers won their first national championship in program history with Fernando Mendoza leading the way.
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The post Michigan Wolverines hire bombshell staffer Skylar Phan for recruiting role appeared first on The Big Lead.
NEW YORK (AP) — Zuby Ejiofor scored 23 points, Joson Sanon added 15 off the bench — all after halftime — and No. 18 St. John's rallied from 12 down in the second half to beat skidding Georgetown 72-69 on Tuesday night.
With a gritty comeback on Senior Night at Madison Square Garden, the Red Storm (24-6, 17-2 Big East) tied No. 4 UConn atop the conference standings with one regular-season game remaining. A victory Friday night at Hudson River rival Seton Hall would give the Johnnies at least a share of their second consecutive Big East regular-season championship following a 32-year drought.
The only time they’ve won back-to-back league crowns was 1985 and ’86.
Dylan Darling had 12 points for St. John's, which has won 15 of 16 overall and 11 straight meetings with Georgetown — the longest streak for either school in a series that dates to 1909.
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The rematch between Arman Tsarukyan and Georgio Poullas is off … for now.
RAF officials confirmed to MMA Fighting on Tuesday that Poullas is no longer scheduled to face Tsarukyan in a submission-only grappling match at Hype Brazil on March 11 in Rio de Janiero. Hype Fighting posted the matchup on social media Tuesday morning.
Uncrowned first reported the news.
The bout was highly anticipated following an all-out brawl that took place between Tsarukyan and Poullas’ teams following Tsarukyan’s victory this past Saturday at RAF 6. At the conclusion of the match, Tsarukyan punched Poullas, which let to the melee.
RAF co-founders Chad Bronstein and Izzy Martinez gave their points of view on the decision for Poullas to withdraw, and why they believe the rematch needs to happen in RAF instead.
“RAF06 created one of the biggest moments in combat sports this year,” Bronstein said in a statement. “Now everyone wants the rematch. But some things belong on the stage where they started. And that stage is RAF.”
“After the intensity we saw the first time, a rematch between Arman and Georgio was inevitable,” Martinez states. “There’s unfinished business there, and there’s no better place to settle it than on a Real American Freestyle mat.”
As of now, a date and location for the rematch has not been announced.
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) — Thijs De Ridder scored 16 points and No. 13 Virginia outlasted Wake Forest 75-70 on Tuesday night to secure the No. 2 seed and a double-bye in the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament.
Jacari White added 14 points and Johann Grunloh had 12 points, nine rebounds and two blocks as the Cavaliers (26-4, 14-3) beat the Demon Deacons for the 14th time in the last 16 meetings.
Coming off a humbling loss at No. 1 Duke in which they missed 28 of 35 3-point attempts, the Cavaliers struggled again from long range. Virginia missed its first eight 3-point attempts and went 3 for 17 from beyond the arc in the opening half.
The Cavaliers were better after halftime and finished 10 of 32 from deep, including a 3 by Malik Thomas that made it 71-62 with 1:23 left. Thomas finished with 11 points.
Mekhi Mason scored 26 points and Juke Harris had 21 for the Demon Deacons (15-15, 6-11), who kept the outcome in doubt until the final seconds. Wake Forest got within 73-70 with 6.1 seconds to play, but Virginia's Dallin Hall made two free throws with 5.2 seconds left to seal it.
The game was tied 22-all with 4:48 left in the first half before the Cavaliers went on a 10-2 run and went to the locker room ahead 32-24.
It was a dreadful shooting half for both teams. They combined to go 18 of 60 from the floor.
Wake Forest: Hosts California on Saturday.
Virginia: Hosts rival Virginia Tech on Saturday.
___
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ATHENS, Ga. — Kanon Catchings scored a career-high 32 points and Georgia ended No. 16 Alabama’s eight-game winning streak with a 98-88 victory Tuesday night.
Catchings ignited the Bulldogs (21-9, 9-8 Southeastern Conference) with 20 points before halftime, leading their fourth win in five games. He was 7 of 13 from 3-point range and delivered a signature highlight with a behind-the-back pass to Somto Cyril for a thunderous slam.
Heading into its final home game of the season, Georgia had likely done enough to clinch its second straight trip to the NCAA Tournament. But tacking a sixth Quad 1 win onto the resume surely sealed a berth in the 68-team field.
The Bulldogs also reached the most regular-season victories since the 2001-02 team went 21-8 under Jim Harrick.
The Crimson Tide (22-8, 12-5) wasted a chance to bolster its seeding for the tournament, despite a spirited back-and-forth down the stretch as the teams traded 3 after 3. Labaron Philon Jr. led Alabama with 26 points.
Catchings, a transfer from BYU in his first season at Georgia, easily eclipsed is previous college best of 23 points.
The Bulldogs never trailed after a 12-0 run in the first half, sparked by their defense and Catchings at the offensive end.
Blue Cain turned a steal into a layup, Catchings dunked one off another steal, and a third steal by Jeremiah Wilkinson led to Catchings knocking down a 3-pointer. The sophomore forward scored eight straight points in the spurt, hitting another trey that was set up by an offensive rebound.
Georgia led 50-43 at halftime after Catchings swished his fourth trey on the period just ahead of the buzzer. The frustration of Alabama coach Nate Oats boiled over when he was assessed a technical as his team was heading up court after a Georgia miss.
Down the stretch, the thrilling game was marred by several delays because of a malfunctioning scoreboard.
Alabama: Returns home Saturday to close out the regular season against rival Auburn.
Georgia: Finishes up the regular season at Mississippi State on Saturday.
For the second season in a row, the Sun Belt is going with a diabolical seven-round ladder bracket that allows all 14 teams to participate and for both the women’s (day sessions) and men’s (night sessions) tournament, while keeping both events in the same venue over the same days. The bottom four teams will need to win seven games in as many days to claim the auto bid (not likely), while the top two seeds only need to win on Sunday and Monday.
Of course, this format would work better in a conference that wasn’t so even. Last season, there was a four-way tie at the top of the league. After all of the tiebreakers were accounted for, the two co-champs ranked highest in the NET, 91st-ranked Arkansas State and No. 107 Troy, were relegated to Saturday’s quarterfinals, while 119th-ranked South Alabama and defending tournament champ James Madison, 156th, were placed in the semifinals.
This season, Troy won the regular-season crown by a full-game, but there was a six-way tie for second at 11-7. As a result, the second-ranked Sun Belt team in the NET, Arkansas State (142, four spots behind Troy) ended up as the No. 7 seed, a fate even worse than what their draw as a co-champ a year ago. So, the Red Wolves will need to win five games in five days to win the title.
Here’s where all six 11-7 teams rank in the NET in order, followed by their seeding and how many games they’ll need to win.
If I were a Sun Belt athletic director, I would throw this tournament format into the Gulf of Mexico.
While all 14 Sun Belt members are participating, this will be the final appearance for Texas State, who is off to the rebuilt Pac-12/9 after this year. But the conference will still have 14 members next season, as Louisiana Tech is joining from CUSA.
This will be the Sun Belt Tournament’s sixth straight season in Pensacola, Florida, with the event exclusively at the Pensacola Bay Center for the fifth season in a row.
ESPN+ ($) will stream all games before the championship.
Gm. 1: (13) Georgia State (10-22, 7-11) 75, (12) Louisiana 84
Gm. 2: (14) ULM (4-27, 1-17) vs. (11) Old Dominion (11-20, 7-11), 8:30*
The Warhawks won 85-79 on 2/4 in Norfolk.
Gm. 3: (12) Louisiana (11-21, 7-11) vs. (9) James Madison (17-14, 9-9), 6
The Ragin’ Cajuns won 64-61 on 2/4 in Harrisonburg.
Gm. 4: Gm. 2 winner vs. (10) Georgia Southern (16-15, 8-10), 8:30*
Gm. 5: Gm. 3 winner vs. (8) Southern Miss (16-15, 9-9), 6
Gm. 6: Gm. 4 winner vs. (7) Arkansas State (20-11, 11-7), 8:30*
Gm. 7: Gm. 5 winner vs. (5) Texas State (19-12, 11-7), 6
Gm. 8: Gm. 6 winner vs. (6) South Alabama (21-10, 11-7), 8:30*
Gm. 9: Gm. 7 winner vs. (4) App State (19-12, 11-7), 6:30
Gm. 10: Gm. 8 winner vs. (3) Coastal Carolina (19-12, 11-7), 9*
Gm. 11: Gm. 9 winner vs. (1) Troy (20-11. 12-6), 6
Gm. 12: Gm. 10 winner vs. (2) Marshall (19-12, 11-7), 8:30*
Gm. 13: Semifinal winners, 7 (ESPN2)
Data originally posted by Bob Vetrone Jr. on Twitterin 2020 with my own additions for the seasons beyond.
Given how close Sun Belt regular seasons are, you shouldn’t be surprised by the spread of conference tournaments by seed. The No. 1 seed has won just three titles since the NCAA field expanded to 68, with the No. 2 and 3 seeds also claiming a trio.
Years with an NCAA win are in bold.
The last two NCAA wins came courtesy of JMU, who knocked off Wisconsin in a 12-over-5 upset in March 2024, and Little Rock, who needed two OTs to win its 5/12 matchup against Purdue in 2016. The Trojans are now in the OVC and heading to the United Athletic Conference (how the WAC is being rebranded) next season.
Troy, Marshall, and Arkansas State (with five wins) are more likely to earn a 14 seed than any of the other 11 teams, with some contenders even ending up on the 16 line in recent bracket projections.
Troy: 2025 (14 seed, 1st Round)
James Madison 2024 (12 seed, 2nd Round)
Louisiana: 2023 (13 seed, 1st Round)
Georgia State: 2022 (16 seed, 1st Round)
Appalachian State: 2021 (16 seed, 1st Round)
Old Dominion: 2019 (14 seed, 1st Round, C-USA member)
Marshall: 2018 (13 seed, 2nd Round, C-USA member)
Coastal Carolina: 2015 (16 seed, Round of 64, Big South member)
Southern Mississippi: 2012 (9 seed, at-large, Round of 64, C-USA member)
South Alabama: 2008 (10 seed, at-large, 1st Round)
Arkansas State: 1999 (15 seed, 1st Round)
Texas State: 1997 (16 seed, 1st Round, Southland member)
ULM: 1996 (15 seed, 1st Round, Southland member)
Georgia Southern: 1992 (15 seed, 1st Round, TAAC (ASUN) member)
All 14 Sun Belt members have reached the field in the 68/65/64-team era. However, six of them have to go back a bit in their conference membership history to find their last trip.
It's now March, which means the 2026 NFL Draft will take place next month.
The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine just wrapped up in Indianapolis, and we got to learn more about the top prospects in the class. Based off the performances and what interviews teams conducted during the combine, we can get a better idea of draft plans.
The Commanders own the No. 7 pick, and the majority of mock drafts this offseason have had the team selecting a defender. There are plenty of talented edge-rushers, linebackers, and defensive backs, all of which are positions the Commanders use.
Jordan Reid of ESPN recently published a post-Combine mock draft that still has the Commanders going defense first. In Reid's mock, the team selects Ohio State defensive back Caleb Downs.
Regarding the Downs pick, Reid offered the following:
Downs is one of the smartest football players I've ever studied. His football IQ, versatility on the back end and sure tackling ability make him a worthy selection at this spot even though a safety hasn't been drafted in the top 10 since 2017 (Jamal Adams). Washington gave up a lot of explosive passing plays last season, with opponents averaging 8.1 yards per attempt (third worst in the NFL). The Commanders also had a mere eight interceptions in 2025, which was the fourth worst in the league. Downs could help them improve in both areas.
As Reid mentioned, a safety hasn't been drafted in the top 10 since Jamal Adams almost 10 years ago. That just goes to show how highly thought of Downs is, as Reid called him "one of the smartest" players he's studied.
Downs also isn't just a pure safety. The Ohio State product is capable of playing in the slot as well and he's also not afraid to hit like a linebacker. In 2025, Downs played in 14 games for the Buckeyes and collected 68 tackles, five tackles for loss, one sack, and two interceptions.
Downs earned First-team All-American honors for the second season in a row and even received some Heisman votes. Pro Football Focus gave Downs a very solid 83.9 grade for his 2025 performance.
In Washington, Downs would start from day one and could immediately be a true difference maker. The Commanders gave up way too many big plays last season, and adding a player like Downs would help ensure that doesn't happen again.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: 2026 NFL Draft: Commanders land Caleb Downs in ESPN post-Combine mock
For at least a few more days, there’s still one undefeated Division I men’s college basketball team remaining.
In its penultimate regular-season game, Miami (Ohio) got a team-high 19 points, four assists and three steals from Peter Suder to hang on to beat Toledo 74-72 on Tuesday, March 3 to improve its record to 30-0.
With the victory, the RedHawks became just the fifth Division I men’s basketball team to start a season 30-0 since the NCAA tournament expanded to 64 teams during the 1984-85 season.
REQUIRED READING: Miami Ohio AD fires back at Bruce Pearl over March Madness bid: 'Flat out wrong'
A win at Ohio on Friday would cap off an undefeated regular season heading into the MAC tournament.
Their 30th win was one of their closest this season. Leading by two with five seconds remaining, Miami forward Brant Byers missed the front end of a one-and-one. Toledo collected the rebound and had a chance to tie or win the game, but a Leroy Blyden Jr. turnover ended the game.
It’s the RedHawks’ seventh victory this season by three points or fewer, five of which have come in their past 12 games.
Miami never trailed and led by as many as 13 points.
Suder made seven of his 10 shots, including four of his seven 3-pointers. Antwone Woolfolk had 14 points while Byers added 13.
The RedHawks’ latest win came after a contentious few days in which their potential NCAA tournament at-large resume was fiercely debated publicly, most notably by former Auburn coach Bruce Pearl, who said Miami is “not one of the best teams in the country” as an at-large. Pearl’s comments came as his son, Steven, is overseeing an Auburn team that’s on the NCAA tournament bubble, with a 15-14 record heading into the week in his first season since taking over for his father.
On Monday, Miami athletic director David Sayler shot back at Pearl on social media.
"U are flat out wrong about @MiamiOH_BBall when u say we would finish last in the Big East," Sayler said in a post on Twitter. "The disrespect is awful and u should not be near a TV studio covering this sport when u show your true colors! Even slipped in a 'we' when talking about Auburn, nice work!"
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Miami (Ohio) basketball improves to 30-0 with narrow win over Toledo
RJ Godfrey delivered the best scoring performance of his Clemsonbasketball career, but it wasn’t enough to carry the Tigers past No. 17 North Carolina on Tuesday night.
Clemson dropped a tight 67-63 decision inside the Dean Smith Center after a frantic finish that left the Tigers just short.
Godfrey led the way with a career-high 22 points on 10-of-13 shooting while grabbing nine rebounds. Carter Welling added 13 points and knocked down three three-pointers, all coming in the second half.
The Tigers had a final chance to force overtime. Trailing by three with 10 seconds left, Clemson drew up a play out of a timeout, but Dillon Hunter drove the lane instead of looking for a tying shot. His layup attempt didn’t fall, ending Clemson’s comeback hopes.
North Carolina leaned on Luka Bogavac down the stretch. He scored 20 points, including 15 in the second half, and delivered two key three-pointers during a late 6-0 run that gave the Tar Heels control.
Clemson briefly held the edge late when Welling buried a three-pointer to put the Tigers ahead 55-53 with 5:38 remaining. North Carolina answered quickly as Bogavac hit back-to-back threes to swing the momentum and give the Tar Heels a 59-55 lead.
The Tigers kept pushing.
Ace Buckner drained a three-pointer to cut the deficit to three, and after a defensive stop Godfrey split a pair of free throws to make it a two-point game with just over a minute to play. Clemson forced another miss, but North Carolina grabbed its ninth offensive rebound of the night.
After a timeout, Derek Dixon connected from deep to push the Tar Heels ahead 64-59.
Hunter responded with two free throws, then converted a driving layup moments later to trim the lead to 64-63 with 12 seconds remaining. Bogavac calmly knocked down two free throws on the other end to restore a three-point cushion and set up Clemson’s final possession.
Earlier in the second half, Clemson had rallied after falling behind by seven during a 12-0 North Carolina run that created a 44-37 deficit with about 14 minutes left. The Tigers answered with a 7-0 burst, highlighted by a Welling three-pointer, to even the score at 44.
The teams traded baskets for several minutes before the Tar Heels finally pulled away late.
Clemson struggled from long range early, missing its first six attempts from three-point range before Godfrey banked one in and Jestin Porter followed with another to give the Tigers their first lead at 19-17 midway through the first half.
After North Carolina answered with an 8-0 run, Clemson closed the half strong. The Tigers finished on a 7-0 surge capped by back-to-back buckets from Butta Johnson, including a three-pointer just before the buzzer that sent Clemson into the break with a 30-27 lead.
Michael Sharman named D1 Baseball, Golden Spikes player of the week
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Despite outscoring North Carolina 34-18 in the paint, Clemson rarely got to the free-throw line. The Tar Heels attempted 15 free throws compared to just six for the Tigers.
Both teams entered the night tied for fourth place in the ACC standings. A Clemson victory would have secured the No. 4 seed and a double-bye in next week’s ACC Tournament. Instead, the Tigers will head into the final regular season game still fighting for positioning.
Clemson (21-9, 11-6 ACC) entered the game ranked No. 35 in the NET rankings. The loss counts as a Quad 1 result and is unlikely to significantly impact the Tigers’ NCAA Tournament profile.
The Tigers close the regular season Saturday at Littlejohn Coliseum against Georgia Tech. The matchup will serve as Senior Day in Clemson.
Contact us @Clemson_Wire on X, and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Clemson Tigers news and notes, plus opinions.
This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Clemson basketball loses to ACC powerhouse North Carolina on the road
The surprise retirement of Bears center Drew Dalman comes with a potentially significant cost.
Beyond the decision to walk away from $24 million over the next two years of his three-year, Dalman could be required to return to the Bears the balance of his signing bonus payment.
He received $6 million up front on a three-year deal. He has earned $2 million of it. The Bears may seek to recover $4 million.
The logic is simple. A signing bonus isn't free money; it's an advance against future performance. The $6 million covers the three years of the contract, earned at the rate of $2 million per year.
In 2025, his first with the Bears, Dalman started all 17 regular-season games and two playoff games. He took 100 percent of the regular-season snaps in a year that ended with his first Pro Bowl berth.
It's unknown why Dalman walked away from football at age 27, and after only five NFL seasons. It would be foolish to completely rule out the possibility that he wanted the Bears to adjust his deal after a stellar first season in Chicago, and that the Bears declined to do so.
Until Dalman addresses the decision himself, the reason(s) for it won't be known. If, however, the move had anything to do with his contract, it's possible that a sweetener from the Bears could lure him back.
Jiri Prochazka has been plotting for Carlos Ulberg prior to knowing about the fight.
With Alex Pereira vacating his light heavyweight title, Prochazka (32-5-1 MMA, 6-2 UFC) and Ulberg (13-1 MMA, 9-1 UFC) will battle for the vacant belt in the UFC 327 (Paramount+) headliner on April 11 at the Kaseya Center in Miami.
Prochazka was angling for a trilogy bout with Pereira after rebounding with back-to-back knockouts of Jamahal Hill and Khalil Rountree. However, with Pereira leaving the division behind, Prochazka won't get his opportunity to avenge his two losses to "Poatan."
"I'm not surprised," Prochazka said of Pereira vacating his belt on "The Ariel Helwani Show." "I think it's a gentleman thing. When you go up, it's normal to release the title. I hoped (to meet Pereira again). Possible opponents for me, there was Ulberg or Pereira. I wanted just one of these two for a title fight because I think other fighters don't deserve it, and I made enough to take back what's mine. ... I believe sooner or later Alex Pereira will come in my way."
Prochazka opened up as a slight favorite over Ulberg, who's on a nine-fight winning streak. Prochazka sees a kink in Ulberg's armor that he's confident he'll expose.
"I already chose the way I like to hunt Ulberg because he don't like the pressure," Prochazka said. "He don't like to be hunted. This is what I say to myself. I need to be that one who catches this guy. There is no other way to fight with him. He is fast, good kickboxer, he likes to jump a lot, to be light on the legs. He don't like to wrestle. He don't like to be on the ground. So, pressure, pressure. That's it."
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: UFC 327: Jiri Prochazka reveals way to expose Carlos Ulberg
Kobe Bryant entered the NBA in 1996 straight out of high school and built one of the most iconic careers the game has ever seen. He spent all 20 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, winning five championships, an MVP award, multiple All Star nods, and more “holy cow” moments than some entire sports franchises have. It makes sense why broadcasters loved him.
Bryant talked trash, took impossible shots without hesitation, and seemed to take every matchup personally. From his famed 81 point game to his 60 point finale in 2016, there was never a dull moment with the Hall of Famer.
Tonight’s Sixers vs. Spurs NBC broadcast honored the Mamba, particularly through famed sports commentator Jim Gray. The Emmy winning journalist looked back on some of his favorite memories of the Mamba and how Bryant had always been around the game, dating back to the days when his father played for Philly.
“One of the great chapters that was written was with Kobe Bryant on the NBA on NBC. He father, Jelly Bean Joe Bryant played for the 76ers and I can remember at the old Spectrum because I was here working. You would see Kobe Bryant playing in the hallways with Mike Bibby,” recalled Gray.
After highlighting his early success with the 2000 Lakers, Gray brought up Bryant securing the MVP trophy at the 2002 All-Star game, which also took place in Philadelphia. He smiled when he remembered that the City of Brotherly Love heavily booed Bryant at the time because of how badly he verbally torched the city.
“He won the MVP of the 2002 All-Star game and he was booed by the fans here because he had made a comment about ripping their hearts out here in Philadelphia, so they booed him, and that toughened him up.”
“And now, the NBA All-Star game trophy is named after Kobe Bryant. It was a great joy and honor to cover his career,” added Gray.
Covering the Mamba must have been a one of a kind experience. You can hear it in the journalist’s voice. He wishes that Kobe were still around, perhaps even doing coverage next to him. We all miss him.
In many ways, nights like this show how Bryant‘s impact goes far beyond box scores or banner counts. He was a measuring stick for competitiveness, the guy players still reference when they talk about mindset and edge.
The fact that the All Star MVP trophy now carries his name says everything about how the league views his legacy. And honestly, hearing veterans like Jim Gray get a little reflective just reminds you that covering Bryant was not just a job. It was front row access to greatness that does not come around very often.
The post Legendary Announcer Recalls Covering Kobe Bryant’s Iconic Career for NBA on NBC appeared first on The SportsRush.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic – The Detroit Tigers lost, 12-4, to the Dominican Republic's World Baseball Classic squad in an exhibition on Tuesday, March 3, at Estadio Quisqueya Juan Marichal.
Tigers manager A.J. Hinch decided to start Kevin McGonigle, the Tigers prized prospect, at shortstop and bat him leadoff against Team Dominican.
“It's just another step in the right direction of showing him what it's like to play against the best,” Hinch said. “He's more than equipped to handle it, and my guess is, he'll be really pretty anxious to swing at an early pitch.”
And what are the lottery numbers, A.J.?
Because on the first pitch from Luis Severino (a two-time All-Star now with the Athletics), McGonigle demolished a homer to right.
OWNER TALK: Tigers' Christopher Ilitch: I'll back Scott Harris on Tarik Skubal plan
McGonigle sprinted around the bases, obviously jacked up, and went into the dugout, high fiving everyone in sight.
In the second inning, McGonigle came through again. He hit a sharp single, driving in two more runs to give the Tigers a 3-0 lead. Yes, McGonigle drove in all of them.
He added another run in the fourth inning after a walk, getting to third on a throwing error and scoring on a Riley Greene sacrifice fly to make the score: Kevin McGonigal 4, Team Dominican 3.
And then he picked up his third hit, a single, in the seventh, before getting taken out for the night.
Colt Keith, who has changed his spring training routine to ty to start off faster, got a pair of hits.
And a pair of Tigers from the Dominican Republic – outfielder Wenceel Pérez and designated hitter Thayron Liranzo – both picked up a pair of hits in front of plenty of friends and family. Pérez added another in the seventh.
Pérez last took this field in Santo Domingo when he was trying out for MLB clubs. He returned to the Dominican Republic having played in 212 major league games over two seasons (2024-25) with the Tigers, hitting 33 doubles, 10 triples and 22 home runs while driving in 80 runs over that span.
MORE SEIDEL: Kevin McGonigle has changed my mind after watching him in camp
Ty Madden got the start for the Tigers against a Dominican Republic batting order with superstar after superstar.
The roster Madden faced combined for 340 MLB home runs last season. Sixteen players have 39 total All-Star selections, including eight from last year’s game.
Madden handled it like somebody tiptoeing through a minefield.
First up: Fernando Tatis Jr. – single to right.
Ketel Marte? Ground out.
Juan Soto, with a runner on second? Fly out to right.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. – struck out swinging.
But in the second inning, it all fell apart. There was no more tiptoeing. Madden gave up three hits and walked two, leading to three earned runs and ending his outing.
The wheels came off against left-hander Brant Hurter in the fourth inning, as Soto, Manny Machado and Junior Caminero – each of whom received MVP votes last season – all hit homers to turn it into a rout.
MAD MADDEN: The forgotten man has suddenly appeared again for the Detroit Tigers
1. McGonigle, 2. Pérez, 3. Keith.
Wednesday (2:05 p.m., MLB Network) vs. Team Dominican Republic in Santo Domingo. (Also, the rest of the Tigers will face Team Panama in Lakeland, Florida, at 1:05 p.m., with no TV.)
Contact Jeff Seidel: jseidel@freepress.com. Follow him on X @seideljeff
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Kevin McGonigle unstoppable for Detroit Tigers in Dominican Republic
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic – The Detroit Tigers lost, 12-4, to the Dominican Republic's World Baseball Classic squad in an exhibition on Tuesday, March 3, at Estadio Quisqueya Juan Marichal.
Tigers manager A.J. Hinch decided to start Kevin McGonigle, the Tigers prized prospect, at shortstop and bat him leadoff against Team Dominican.
“It's just another step in the right direction of showing him what it's like to play against the best,” Hinch said. “He's more than equipped to handle it, and my guess is, he'll be really pretty anxious to swing at an early pitch.”
And what are the lottery numbers, A.J.?
Because on the first pitch from Luis Severino (a two-time All-Star now with the Athletics), McGonigle demolished a homer to right.
OWNER TALK: Tigers' Christopher Ilitch: I'll back Scott Harris on Tarik Skubal plan
McGonigle sprinted around the bases, obviously jacked up, and went into the dugout, high fiving everyone in sight.
In the second inning, McGonigle came through again. He hit a sharp single, driving in two more runs to give the Tigers a 3-0 lead. Yes, McGonigle drove in all of them.
He added another run in the fourth inning after a walk, getting to third on a throwing error and scoring on a Riley Greene sacrifice fly to make the score: Kevin McGonigal 4, Team Dominican 3.
And then he picked up his third hit, a single, in the seventh, before getting taken out for the night.
Colt Keith, who has changed his spring training routine to ty to start off faster, got a pair of hits.
And a pair of Tigers from the Dominican Republic – outfielder Wenceel Pérez and designated hitter Thayron Liranzo – both picked up a pair of hits in front of plenty of friends and family. Pérez added another in the seventh.
Pérez last took this field in Santo Domingo when he was trying out for MLB clubs. He returned to the Dominican Republic having played in 212 major league games over two seasons (2024-25) with the Tigers, hitting 33 doubles, 10 triples and 22 home runs while driving in 80 runs over that span.
MORE SEIDEL: Kevin McGonigle has changed my mind after watching him in camp
Ty Madden got the start for the Tigers against a Dominican Republic batting order with superstar after superstar.
The roster Madden faced combined for 340 MLB home runs last season. Sixteen players have 39 total All-Star selections, including eight from last year’s game.
Madden handled it like somebody tiptoeing through a minefield.
First up: Fernando Tatis Jr. – single to right.
Ketel Marte? Ground out.
Juan Soto, with a runner on second? Fly out to right.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. – struck out swinging.
But in the second inning, it all fell apart. There was no more tiptoeing. Madden gave up three hits and walked two, leading to three earned runs and ending his outing.
The wheels came off against left-hander Brant Hurter in the fourth inning, as Soto, Manny Machado and Junior Caminero – each of whom received MVP votes last season – all hit homers to turn it into a rout.
MAD MADDEN: The forgotten man has suddenly appeared again for the Detroit Tigers
1. McGonigle, 2. Pérez, 3. Keith.
Wednesday (2:05 p.m., MLB Network) vs. Team Dominican Republic in Santo Domingo. (Also, the rest of the Tigers will face Team Panama in Lakeland, Florida, at 1:05 p.m., with no TV.)
Contact Jeff Seidel: jseidel@freepress.com. Follow him on X @seideljeff
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Kevin McGonigle unstoppable for Detroit Tigers in Dominican Republic
CLEVELAND — Cavaliers starting center Jarrett Allen is dealing with a right knee injury.
On March 3, Allen checked out of the Cavs' 113-109 win over the Detroit Pistons with 7:32 left in the third quarter and disappeared into the tunnel near Cleveland's locker room at Rocket Arena.
Later, the Cavs announced Allen was considered doubtful to return to the game. He never came back.
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More Cavaliers coverage: Cavs score vs. Pistons. Injury report, live game updates, highlights and stats
Allen had eight points, three rebounds and a steal in 21 minutes when he left the game.
Allen has been on a roll for the Cavs, who improved to 39-24 by defeating the Pistons (45-15).
In Allen's previous 12 games, he averaged 22.1 points on 72.7% shooting from the field, 11.1 rebounds, 1.2 blocked shots and 29.6 minutes, helping the Cavs go 9-3 during the span.
Allen was among the nominees for Eastern Conference Player of the Month for games played in February, but the award went to Pistons guard Cade Cunningham.
Nate Ulrich is the sports columnist of the Akron Beacon Journal and a sports features writer. Nate can be reached at nulrich@thebeaconjournal.com. On Twitter: @ByNateUlrich.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Cavs injury news. Jarrett Allen hurts knee in Cavaliers vs. Pistons
Cincinnati Bengals star defensive end Trey Hendrickson is officially hitting the open market.
The franchise deadline came and went on Tuesday, and Hendrickson did not receive a tag, despite being in the final year of his contract. That means the former First-Team All-Pro defender will be a free agent next week. The New England Patriots should be one of many teams interested in signing the star defensive player.
Hendrickson only appeared in seven games for the Bengals last year. His season was cut short due to a hip injury, which required him to undergo surgery. All told, he tallied 16 total tackles and four sacks in addition to a pass deflection last season.
Before last year, Hendrickson was coming off consecutive 17.5-sack seasons. The four-time Pro Bowler posted a thank you message after the franchise deadline to say goodbye to the city of Cincinnati.
Hendrickson built a reputation as one of the most feared pass-rushers in the NFL with 81 sacks and 239 combined tackles in 117 games.
The Patriots could use a No. 1 edge rusher, and Hendrickson could fill that need at an elite level, depending on how much gas he still has in the tank at 31 years old. His addition to Mike Vrabel's defense could make an already elite unit even scarier.
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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Path clear for Patriots to attempt to sign First-Team All-Pro defender
Bobby Okereke's first season with the New York Giants rivaled some of the best free agent campaigns in franchise history, setting the bar considerably high for one of the most important players on the team.
The next two seasons for Okereke failed to come anywhere close to that, though, so his departure this offseason was viewed as only a matter of time.
That time is now.
The Giants have informed Okereke that he is being released, a source confirmed to NorthJersey.com and The Record on Tuesday night. That creates $9 million in salary cap space for the Giants while leaving $5.4 million behind in dead money due to guarantees already paid out.
Okereke, 28, was the team's Walter Payton Man of the Year this past season.
If there is a constant to the John Harbaugh defenses, it's the man in the middle. So the expectation has been that his Giants will pursue multiple players at inside linebacker, and that quest began at last week's Scouting Combine in Indianapolis where team brass came away extremely impressed with Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles, who wowed in formal interviews and during stellar on-field workouts.
Styles has emerged as a popular selection in mock drafts for the Giants at No. 5 overall.
The history in Baltimore at the position during Harbaugh's 18-year tenure speaks for itself. He had All-Pros in Ray Lewis and C.J. Mosley in the middle of talented defenses. The Ravens also had Patrick Queen, a first-round pick, and when that did not pan out to the level the Ravens hoped, they went and traded for another All-Pro in Roquan Smith.
"At the end of the day, you just got to get as many good football players that play the way you want to play on the field," Harbaugh said. "You’ve got to put as many good football players as you can out there, so you don't want to sacrifice a really good player because it's not a need or a value position. They're all important. You know? The inside linebacker isn't always considered a value position, but you can't stop the run without an inside linebacker making tackles in the middle. Right? You can't do it. So, you know, that becomes pretty important."
The Giants have another decision to make on their other inside linebacker, Micah McFadden, who is a free agent after playing in just one game last season due to a foot injury. McFadden will likely be seeking a one-year deal in order to reset his market, and he could return to the Giants.
It's possible the Giants completely revamp the position under Harbaugh, new defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson and inside linebackers coach Frank Bush. They could add a veteran such as Tremaine Edmunds, who was granted permission to seek a trade by the Chicago Bears and could ultimately be released. An underrated free agent who could fit is the Chiefs' Leo Chenal.
This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: What NY Giants release of Bobby Okereke means at inside linebacker
Tennessee basketball coach Rick Barnes believes star freshman Nate Ament will be fine after missing his first game of the season.
The 6-foot-10 forward sat out with a right leg injury as the No. 25 Vols (21-9, 11-6 SEC) thumped South Carolina (12-18, 3-14), 78-59 at Colonial Life Arena on March 3.
"He looked good today, but we obviously knew we weren't going to play him," Barnes said. "If it were up to Nate, he would've played today. He's one of the toughest kids I've ever been around. The fact he played in the Missouri game after that high ankle turn, and he wanted to play the other night (against Alabama). The doctors didn't think that was the wisest thing to do. The right decision was to was not to play him."
Tennessee initially classified Ament's injury as a right leg issue. He twisted his ankle on a rebound attempt against Missouri on Feb. 24, and hurt his knee while battling for a loose ball against Alabama on Feb. 28.
Barnes confirmed "it's more of a high ankle sprain," but did not provide a timetable for his retrurn.
He was confident, though, that Ament could have played if necessary.
"Oh yeah, absolutely," Barnes said on if Ament would return this season. "I'm telling you, he would've played today if they would've agreed to let him play. That's just who he is, he just wants to play."
Ament's presence or points weren't needed, though.
The Vols bullied the Gamecocks in the interior for 56 points in the paint. J.P. Estrella and Felix Okpara combined for 42 points, and Ja'Kobi Gillespie delivered a career-high 12 assists.
Ament is averaging 17.4 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game.
Tennessee finishes its regular season on March 7 when it hosts No. 22 Vanderbilt at Food City Center (2 p.m. ET, ESPN). Ament's availability is still in question, but Barnes is sure he'll appreciate the rest.
"He's had a long year," Barnes said. "I don't think anyone's gotten beat up more in college basketball than Nate Ament this year. I don't But he's never complained about it one time. I'm the one who complained about it because I think it's real. I like to think that it could be a blessing in disguise. Nate's a tough kid.
"I guarantee you if it was our last game of the year, Nate Ament would've played."
Wynton Jackson covers high school sports for Knox News. Email: wynton.jackson@knoxnews.com
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This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Nate Ament injury update is positive from Tennessee coach Rick Barnes
Underneath the sloppy turnovers and chaotic pace, the Houston Rockets stacked a box score full of milestones on Monday night in Washington D.C.
Houston escaped the capital with a 123-118 win over the Wizards, and while the game itself might not make any highlight reels, the stat sheet was riddled with history.
Three Rockets recorded double-doubles, several career marks fell, Kevin Durant casually added another 30-point performance to an already scorching stretch.
The Rockets were far from clean. Houston committed 20 turnovers, which the Wizards converted into 39 points. The Rockets’ stars led the court in miscues. Alperen Sengun turned the ball over eight times, while Durant added six.
Yet Washington never fully capitalized.
That’s because the Rockets dominated the glass in overwhelming fashion, outrebounding the Wizards 59-27, repeatedly generating second chances while limiting Washington’s interior opportunities.
And when Houston needed offense, Sengun delivered.
The Rockets’ center finished with 32 points and 13 rebounds, punishing Washington’s defense for largely refusing to send double teams. Once Sengun found his rhythm, the Wizards had no real answer inside.
Durant, meanwhile, continued his quiet scoring rampage. His 30-point night marked the fifth time in the last seven games he’s crossed that threshold, further stabilizing Houston’s offense during stretches when the team’s energy dipped.
But Monday’s game may ultimately be remembered for the emergence of Houston’s young core.
Amen Thompson posted 22 points and 12 rebounds, his third double-double in the last five games and another sign that the 23-year-old is rapidly expanding his offensive presence. Thompson has now scored 20 or more points in three of Houston’s last four contests, pairing his elite athleticism with increasingly confident decision-making.
Then there was Reed Sheppard, whose fingerprints were everywhere.
The young guard finished with 19 points, 10 assists, and seven rebounds, recording his first career double-double while also tying his career high with two blocks. Sheppard added six steals, a new career high, showcasing the defensive instincts that have recently made him a disruptive presence in Houston’s backcourt.
Washington stayed competitive largely thanks to its perimeter shooting. The Wizards drilled 19 three-pointers, including five from Bilal Coulibaly, whose hot hand helped keep the game within reach.
But even that couldn’t overcome Houston’s physical dominance and rebounding advantage.
Monday night’s game may not be remembered for its excitement, but between the double-doubles, career highs, and another 30-point night from Durant, it was quietly one of the more statistically loaded wins of Houston’s season.
Michael Misa is starting to make an impact at the NHL level.
The San Jose Sharks rookie had a rollercoaster start to the season, being in and out of the lineup due to roster management issues, injuries, and, of course, the World Junior Championship. Now that things are starting to find a sense of normalcy for the 19-year-old forward, he’s starting to put up some points.
“He's been great,” Will Smith added. “I think you definitely see [that] he's playing with more confidence now. He's got a lot of chances, and he started to bear down on those and put [them] in the back of the net. It's fun to see.”
“It took me a couple of games to get used to the pace and how the game was played,” Misa said. “I'm getting faster and keeping up with the play, but also trying to try to slow the play down, [which] is something I usually do in the offensive zone.”
Since returning from the Olympic break, Misa has four points in three games, including two goals.
Against the Winnipeg Jets last Sunday, Misa scored his first career game-winning goal when he scored in overtime to hand the Sharks a 2-1 victory. “He's 19, and he just dangled through three guys and put it in against one of the best goalies in the league,” defenseman Vincent Desharnais said of the goal.”It was pretty awesome to see, and everyone was really happy for him, too.”
“It was pretty crazy,” Smith added. “We saw him getting that speed there, and he's a great skater, so we knew something was going to happen.”
Misa isn’t letting his recent success get to his head, though. When asked to rank his confidence, he replied, “Just neutral, whatever that is. [You] don't want to get too high, don't want to get too low. You’re going to have good games. You're going to have bad games. I think it's important to just focus on the next one and not get too high.”
Of course, for a young centerman, offense isn’t everything. Misa feels that he’s also taken a step forward defensively. “It was definitely a work in progress as a center, coming in as a young guy to be responsible defensively as well,” he said. “I think I've been doing a good job recently, just playing harder on guys, giving them extra cross checks and stuff like that. It can [also] lead to offense.”
Importantly, Misa has also fit in well with the Sharks’ group of players. “He's been great in the locker room,” Smith said. “All of the boys love him. He's been great this whole time.”
Misa’s turbulent playing this season has been fairly similar to what Smith encountered in his rookie campaign last season. Smith was often held out of the lineup to help him adapt to life at the NHL level. As a result, Smith has shared some advice with his young teammate, but doesn’t go overboard with it either. “I think he knows what he's doing,” Smith said. “He got here for a reason, but whenever he asks something, or maybe I see something, we'll talk, but I think he's starting to figure it out.”
Misa has played just 21 games at the NHL level, but it seems like he’s starting to figure out what it takes to be a difference maker at this level.
In the toughest test to date, #13 NC State took down #16 Coastal Carolina by a final score of 6-4 in Raleigh.
The Wolfpack certainly didn’t play the cleanest game, but after administering a slew of beatdowns to overmatched teams, the grit showed by State to overcome a deficit and then respond to a late Chanticleers comeback was a welcomed sign. The Pack improve to 11-1 on the year with the win while Coastal falls to 7-5.
For Coastal, it was their third loss in four games in the midst of a brutal finishing kick to their non-conference schedule. Playing in a tournament in Houston this past weekend, the Chanticleers lost to #3 Texas and #25 UTSA before beating Ole Miss. Following today’s game they’ll head home for a three-game series with East Carolina and then host #15 Wake Forest next Tuesday before beginning Sun Belt play.
For NC State, this was all about overcoming adversity and surviving a late gut-punch. It also helps to have Chris McHugh blast a pair of long balls.
The Chanticleers struck first with a Blagen Pado solo home run with two outs in the first, clearing the visitor bullpen. The homer came on an 0-2 pitch from Heath Andrews that was simply too good for the count. Thankfully, McHugh was quick to respond in the bottom half of the inning, winning on a 1-2 up-in-the-zone challenge fastball.
Wasting no time! pic.twitter.com/FPG0An3jwE
— NC State Baseball (@NCStateBaseball) March 3, 2026
Coastal went down in order in the 2nd while State failed to make the most of a Brayden Fraasman leadoff infield single. Fraasman advanced to third base in the inning, but couldn’t cross the plate.
A pair of one-out singles appeared to have Coastal in business in the 3rd inning, but a nice cutoff by Mikey Ryan on a solid throw from Fraasman in right field towards third base gunned down Dean Mihos who tried to take second base on the throw. A flyout ended the frame for Coastal.
Rett Johnson laid down a beautiful bunt single to start the bottom of the 3rd, but after a Ty Head sacrifice bunt, State was again unable to score the man in scoring position and left the inning without plating a run.
A two-out HBP was all that was doing for the top of the 4th while State again squandered opportunities in their half of the frame. Fraasman singled with one out and Ryan did the same with two outs, but a foul out behind home plate again left the game tied at one run each.
A pair of two-out walks led to Coastal taking the lead on a single in the 5th inning. Thankfully, Andrews was able to strike out Pado to end the inning, stranding two runners. That would mark the end of the day for Andrews (5.0 IP, 4 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 2 BB, 4 K, 1 HBP), who pitched well but was only hurt by the early too-good offering on an advantaged count and then the two walks in his final inning. Aside from the home run and a deep fly out, Coastal failed to square him up much in the game. While not his best, it was another solid outing for the junior righty.
State went down in order in the bottom of the 5th while Anderson Nance came on to pitch for State in the 6th and did the same to the Chanticleers. That was helped by a great defensive play from Luke Nixon.
Luke is showing off his range! pic.twitter.com/zIkK3JqDzy
— NC State Baseball (@NCStateBaseball) March 3, 2026
The Pack squandered another excellent scoring opportunity in the bottom of the 6th thanks to some poor baserunning. Nixon singled to start the inning and advanced to second when Sherman Johnson was hit by a pitch. Fraasman then lofted a soft liner towards the second base bag that hung up long enough to be a clear out, but it seemed to confuse both base runners and Johnson ended up being doubled off of first base. Andrew Wiggins and Ryan followed with a pair of walks that would have pushed a run across, but ended up doing nothing as a infield pop out ended the inning.
Nance set down the Coastal side in order in the 7th including two via strikeout. Meanwhile, State finally broke through in the bottom of the 7th. Head hit a ground-rule double with one out that bounced over the wall running down the left field line. McHugh followed with a walk; however, Head was caught stealing on the pitch. He beat the throw but just barely ended up oversliding the bag (thanks to a tag from the Coastal third baseman that pushed his hand off the bag, but the call was upheld on replay).
Nixon thankfully doubled down into the right field corner on a 1-1 pitch in the following at bat and McHugh hustled around as the tag went between his hand and his head, allowing him to score on the play and tie the game up and 2-2.
Luke Nixon connects, and Chris McHugh turns on the jets to tie this game up! pic.twitter.com/Tb26ADmGKe
— NC State Baseball (@NCStateBaseball) March 3, 2026
Sherman Johnson walked and stole second base, setting up a huge Fraasman double to right center field to plate two runs and give the Pack their first lead of the game at 4-2.
C.L.U.T.C H@fraasman19pic.twitter.com/JINr5OGGMx
— NC State Baseball (@NCStateBaseball) March 3, 2026
For whatever reason, Nance (2.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K) wasn’t sent back out for the 8th inning. Redshirt-freshman Truitt Manuel came on the first pitch he threw was sent over the visitor bullpen to cut the Pack lead to one. Manuel is highly talented and is going to be great, but in his first taste of a pressure at the collegiate level, it got the best of him as he followed with a full count walk to Blake Barthol.
Collins Black replaced Manuel and retired Pado on a poor bunt attempt that resulted in a pop out, capped by a nice sliding catch by McHugh. Unfortunately, Black allowed an early steal to Barthol, who advanced to third on a groundout and then scored on a Walker Mitchell single up the middle. Barthol likely would have scored either way as Rex Watson followed Mitchell with another single, but it would have at least set up a play at the plate. Either way, the game went to the bottom of the 8th all tied.
Drew Lanphere led off the inning with a four-pitch walk. Rett Johnson attempted to bunt him over but failed and ended up striking out. Head flied out and things looked a little bleak, but thankfully McHugh was there to answer the call with a 110.7 mph piss missile over the visitor bullpen.
There is power, then there is CHRIS MCHUGH POWER! pic.twitter.com/h0PBzd7szh
— NC State Baseball (@NCStateBaseball) March 3, 2026
Nixon and Sherman Johnson followed with singles, but no more runs crossed the plate for the Pack. The 6-4 lead was plenty, though, as Black (2.0 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 2 K) set down the Chanticleers in order in the 9th to wrap up the victory and notch the win.
McHugh (2-for-4, 2 HR, 3 R, 3 RBI) was the big bat in the game for State, while Fraasman (3-for-5, 2B, 2 RBI) and Nixon (3-for-5, 2B, R, RBI) also came through huge with multi-hit games. Sherman Johnson (1-for-3, R, BB, HBP) and Ryan (1-for-3, BB) also both reached base safely multiple times.
NC State has five games remaining until ACC play starts March 13th at home against Boston College. First, they’ll face off with Queens, Lafayette, and Elon. Speaking of…
Game Time 3:00pm (ACCNX | Stats)
In their 8th year of D1 baseball play and already on their 3rd coach, this was expected to be a rough year for the Royals. Here’s what was said in the preseason preview about Queens:
The returning production from last year is lackluster – of the six returning hitters with 50+ PA last year, only one hit over .216 – and the team will try to rebuild with a mix of JUCO and lower-division transfers. That’s going to provide more upside than last year’s group, but not without obvious risk. The pitching staff returns just six arms from a year ago and adds five transfer arms to try and shore things up. This is likely going to be another rough season, especially in a top-heavy Atlantic Sun Conference.
That hasn’t been entirely untrue as Queens currently sits at 4-7 heading into Wednesday’s game in Raleigh, but that’s not the complete picture. Eight of their 11 games have been decided by three runs or fewer and the Royals are 4-4 in those games, so this has been a competitive team. Plus, one of those four wins is a 9-8 victory at South Carolina.
That’s despite an offense that’s hitting a collective .211/.308/.347, 17 2B, 8 HR, 9.1 BB%, 27.7 K%, 17-23 SB. Redshirt-freshman CF Bradley Brown (.303/.368/.576, 4 2B, 1 HR, 10.3 BB%, 20.5 K%, 4-5 SB) has been the real star of the lineup thus far while JR 1B Grayson Childers (.250/.516/.500, 2 2B, 1 HR, 26.5 BB%, 23.5 K%, 3-4 SB), a JUCO transfer from Broken Arrow, OK, has put together an intriguing season so far.
The pitching staff has struggled with control (13.0 BB%, 22 HBP) while not missing a ton of bats (15.0 K%), but they’re getting solid starting pitching from rJR LHP Joey Ruller (0-2, 4.34 ERA, 18.2 IP, 9.5 BB%, 20.3 K%) and SO RHP Matthew Eagen (1-1, 3.18 ERA, 17.0 IP, 6.9 BB%, 13.9 K%) which has lessened the reliance on a shaky bullpen. That’s been the key to success when the team has found it, including in the win over the Gamecocks when Adrian Quezada (1-1, 7.36 ERA, 11.0 IP, 9.3 BB%, 16.7 K%) provided 6.0 innings of 3-run ball despite some iffy peripherals (8 H, 2 BB, 2 HBP). Staying out of the bullpen is what the Royals need to do to win.
In my game threads post I suggested that a fifteen run route of Team Brazil was one I very much desired. Fourteen runs later, the A’s walk away with a win, one run short of my predicted run total but just as offensively sweet.
Let’s get into it…
Aaron Civale took the bump today, for the first as a member of The Athletics. Last season was a bit of a let down for the righty. Sixty-seven innings with the White Sox left him haggard, his ERA bumping up against six (5.37). He’d be claimed off of waivers by the cross town Cubs where, in the small sample size of five games and thirteen innings – – he kind’ve got dirty with it. Most probably remember his four plus innings of no run baseball against the Milwaukee Brewers in the NLDS. Clearly David Forst and the A’s took notice because they threw him a one year contract of major league proportions (I’m assuming his other offers capped out at an invite to camp).
Things didn’t go great for Civale. Yes, it was his first outing but he was playing against a bunch of scrubs. Team Brazil got going early in the first. A pair of singles out of the gate, including one by Lucas Ramirez (son of 2012 A’s Spring Training legend Manny Ramirez), allowed for a Leonardo Reginatto sac fly to put the WBC club up early.
That lead, thankfully, would be short lived. In the bottom half of the first, Jeff McNeil turned on an off-speed pitch, pulling it down the right field line for a two-run home run and scoring shortstop Jacob Wilson in the process. The runs didn’t stop there. A batter later, Austin Wynns connected for a home run of his own. According to Statcast, Wynn’s solo pimp job traveled 433 ft!
Austin Wynns – Sacramento Athletics (1)* pic.twitter.com/HA0Bt2tIbk
— MLB HR Videos (@MLBHRVideos) March 4, 2026
A Brett Harris double made it 4-1. Tommy White’s ground out paired with a Ryan Lasko fielders choice brought in two more runs, making it 6-1 A’s, followed by another appearance by Jacob Wilson in the bottom of the first, in which he knocked in Clark Elliott on a sacrifice fly piece.
Wilson collected another RBI in the third inning, scoring outfielder Ryan Lasko who had just knocked in three via a triple.
The last gasp of life for Team Brazil took place in the fifth inning, when a Jack Perkins throwing error put runners in scoring position (second and third) with less than two outs. Lucas Rojo’s sacrifice fly made it 11-2 A’s. Perkins would walk Victor Mascal with two outs, setting up pinch hitter Gabriel Gomes for a bases clearing triple.
That would be it on the scoring end for Team Brazil and I have to say – – they got to Jack Perkins. This surprised me a little bit as the righty was coming off a pretty solid showing against the Rangers. Maybe the five day break in between appearances left him a little rusty? If so, I think that’s a great example of why he should be coming out of the pen. Let’s keep the kid hot and constantly in the loop.
Speaking of the pen, everyone after Perkins did a great job of holding down the fort. The newly acquired duo of Scott Barlow and Mark Leiter Jr. provided an inning and a third of shutout ball. No hits. One strikeout for Leiter Jr. Gambling icon Michael Kelly collected a pair of strikes of his own, including the two fastest pitches of the game (97.6 and 97.0).
The last three runs for the A’s all involved Bryan Lavastida as he’d get things going in the bottom of the fifth with a two-run single and score on Joshua Kuroda-Grauer’s base hit.
After seven innings of blow out baseball, we’d have ourselves a travel ball-style mercy rule.
“That’s ball game!”
“good game” “good game” “good game”
SCathletics pointed out in response to Banana Shoes’ comment regarding Joshua Kuroda-Grauer that he is currently five for eleven with zero strikeouts so far this spring. Yes, we’d have to go in and investigate who those hits were against and what the circumstances were but still – – at the very least it’ll breed confidence in the young prospect as he makes his way through the minors. Him and fellow 2024 draft pick Tommy White have been putting on a solid show. Something tells me we’ll look back fondly on that 2024 draft class and marvel at all the talent it brought us.
Weird to think that the last Oakland A’s draft class might’ve been the big one that set them up for success in Las Vegas.
No rest for the wicked! The A’s will be back at it against the Arizona Diamondbacks tomorrow afternoon. Same time. Same place. Let me know what other players you’re geeking on in the comments and if you’ve got any TV show recommendations. Because most of these games aren’t available to watch, I’ve been listening to them on A’s Cast whilst watching TV like a sicko. Today’s visual entree was that ridiculous Brent Shield’s romdram Cupid and Cate starring Mary Louise Parker (babe) and Peter Gallagher (zaddy). Maybe it’s because I was also listening to a full on A’s game but the whole movie felt like it was missing two innings. There’s that big fight between Mary Louise Parker’s dad and her and her sisters and then it just…ends? Aren’t we missing a few beats with the whole Gallagher storyline? I feel like we are! Whatever :/ Jokes on me for expecting more from a Hallmark Movie.
I, like Team Brazil, should be thankful they called it early.
Nico Echvarria made an under-the-radar but crucial gear change before his third PGA Tour victory at the Cognizant Classic.
During his post-tournament press conference, Echavarria revealed he just switched to Srixon’s Z-Star Diamond golf ball from the firmer Z-Star XV.
“I changed to a different model because the greens were firm, so I think that helped a lot with the control of coming into the green,” he said. “I went from the XV to the diamond, which is a little softer and spinnier.”
As it turns out, this was a change Echavarria has been mulling for a little while now. He signed with Srixon last offseason and originally tested both of the company’s primary Tour balls, the Z-Star XV and the Z-Star Diamond. Before joining the Srixon team, Echavarria played the firmer, but spinnier Pro V1x.
That decision was driven by his goals with his swing last year, Srixon Director of Tour Operations Michael Jolly told GOLF.
“At times last season, he was much steeper and generating a lot of spin,” Jolly said. “With both balls, he’s seeing less curve and more stability in the wind, which ultimately were the key factors in his decision to make the switch to Srixon overall.”
With the extra spin he was generating, that made the XV the more optimal fit at the time.
He tested at different points last season, but never seriously considered making the move to the Diamond until this offseason, when he started testing with Srixon’s team again.
To start the season, he still leaned on the XV for every start except the WM Phoenix Open, where in the dry and firm conditions, he decided to give the Diamond a first trial run. Playing the Diamond in Phoenix was also crucial because the ball doesn’t spin as much there. So having a spinnier ball can be ideal.
But that’s also why testing golf balls for the early part of the season can be challenging, Jolly said.
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ALSO AVAILABLE AT:PGA TOUR Superstore, Srixon
“We know spin numbers at Phoenix are typically low, San Diego can be a bit unpredictable, and the different grasses from week to week often produce varying launch and spin profiles,” he said. “All that makes it challenging for a player to not only switch golf balls, but to fully trust the data they’re seeing.
“That’s why Cognizant felt like such a great test. It gave him a chance to put the ball in play during competition, in weather and course conditions where he trusted what he was seeing and validate the decision under real pressure.”
Between the two balls, Echavarria’s numbers off the tee don’t change very much, but where the two separate is with the irons, and he sees about 300 RPMs of additional spin.
“The biggest difference has really been with his irons throughout the bag, added stopping power combined with the ability to hit more shots in different windows,” Jolly said. “As he told us today, ‘I’ve just realized I can really play when I have more spin.'”
He said he also preferred the slightly softer feel around the greens.
After his win, where he finished fourth in the field in SG: Approach, Echavarria told the Srixon team he will be sticking with the Diamond for good.
A lot of times, it’s actually more surprising for a player to win in their first week with a new ball than it is with new clubs. Remarkably, it’s the second time it’s happened this year already with Collin Morikawa switching to TaylorMade’s new TP5x before his win at Pebble Beach.
What probably gave Echavarria some confidence was having played the ball last month in Phoenix. He didn’t play well at the WM — he missed the cut — but it was a first test of what the ball can do.
Once he and the Srixon team got to more normal conditions in Florida last week, then they could finally pull the trigger and make the switch. It was a long awaited move, but one that clearly worked out in the end.
Want to find the best golf ball for your game in 2026? Find a club-fitting location near you at True Spec Golf.
The post The key gear switch that led to Nico Echavarria’s Cognizant victory appeared first on Golf.
INDIANAPOLIS -- Ivica Zubac will not be suiting up in the Pacers' first game against the Clippers since the trade that sent him to Indiana, but point guard Andrew Nembhard and forwards Pascal Siakam and Aaron Nesmith are listed as questionable for Wednesday's game in Los Angeles according to the NBA's official injury report and could all return to the lineup after all three sat out Sunday's game against the Grizzlies.
Zubac has yet to play a game for the Pacers since he was acquired on Feb. 5. The listed reason is the left ankle he sprained in late December. Siakam has missed the last three games with a left wrist sprain. Nesmith has missed the last five with a right ankle sprain. Nembhard missed Sunday's game with lower back and neck soreness. Siakam (23.9 points per game), Nembhard (17.4 ppg) and Nesmith (13.2 ppg) are the Pacers top three scorers this season -- outside of Bennedict Mathurin, who was traded to the Clippers in the deal for Zubac -- and were all starters during the Pacers' NBA Finals run last season.
All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton (Achilles tendon tear) and forward Johnny Furphy (ACL tear) are out for the season with their injuries. Clippers guard Brad Beal (hip fracture) and forward John Collins (neck strain) have been ruled out.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Ivica Zubac injury update: Pacers C out vs. Clippers, 3 starters upgraded
INDIANAPOLIS -- Ivica Zubac will not be suiting up in the Pacers' first game against the Clippers since the trade that sent him to Indiana, but point guard Andrew Nembhard and forwards Pascal Siakam and Aaron Nesmith are listed as questionable for Wednesday's game in Los Angeles according to the NBA's official injury report and could all return to the lineup after all three sat out Sunday's game against the Grizzlies.
Zubac has yet to play a game for the Pacers since he was acquired on Feb. 5. The listed reason is the left ankle he sprained in late December. Siakam has missed the last three games with a left wrist sprain. Nesmith has missed the last five with a right ankle sprain. Nembhard missed Sunday's game with lower back and neck soreness. Siakam (23.9 points per game), Nembhard (17.4 ppg) and Nesmith (13.2 ppg) are the Pacers top three scorers this season -- outside of Bennedict Mathurin, who was traded to the Clippers in the deal for Zubac -- and were all starters during the Pacers' NBA Finals run last season.
All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton (Achilles tendon tear) and forward Johnny Furphy (ACL tear) are out for the season with their injuries. Clippers guard Brad Beal (hip fracture) and forward John Collins (neck strain) have been ruled out.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Ivica Zubac injury update: Pacers C out vs. Clippers, 3 starters upgraded
The Husker women (18-11; 7-11) open the Big Ten Tournament against the Indiana Hoosiers – a team Nebraska has had trouble with in recent years. The Hoosiers (17-13; 6-12) have dominated Nebraska winning nine of the past 11 meetings. The most recent meeting was a 78-73 Husker victory on January 6 in Pinnacle Bank Arena.
Earlier today, Britt Prince was named to the All-Big Ten first team by the media and second team by the coaches. The 5-11 point guard from Omaha is averaging a team-best 17.3 points per game while hitting 54.3 percent (188-346) of her shots from the field, including 36-of-79 threes (.456).
Nebraska Cornhuskers vs. Indiana Hoosiers
Allstate Big Ten Tournament First Round
Wednesday, March 4, 2026, 2:30 p.m. (CT)
Indianapolis, Indiana (Gainbridge Fieldhouse)
Live Video: Peacock (subscription only)
Live Radio: Huskers Radio Network (2 p.m.) Matt Coatney (PBP), Jeff Griesch (Analyst) Lincoln (107.3 FM), Omaha (1490 AM/97.3 FM/97.7 HD3), Huskers.com, Huskers App
Live Stats: Huskers.com (statbroadcast – public)
Indiana (17-13, 6-12 Big Ten) has built impressive momentum heading into the Big Ten Tournament by winning six of its last eight games. The Hoosiers opened league play 0-10, including a 78-73 loss at Nebraska (Jan. 8). After a 95-67 home loss to Michigan (Jan. 29), Indiana got three straight wins to open February against Northwestern, at Wisconsin and against Purdue (Feb. 8). Following back-to-back losses to USC and UCLA, the Hoosiers reeled off consecutive wins against Oregon, at Rutgers and Penn State to close the season.
NET 25 Nebraska Cornhuskers (18-11, 7-11 Big Ten)
4 – Petra Bozan – 6-3 – So. – F – 7.0 ppg, 3.4 rpg
33 – Amiah Hargrove – 6-2 – So. – F – 12.7 ppg, 5.5 rpg
2 – Logan Nissley – 6-0 – Jr. – G – 8.8 ppg, 2.3 rpg
14 – Callin Hake – 5-8 – Sr. – G – 7.2 ppg, 2.4 rpg
23 – Britt Prince – 5-11 – So. – G – 17.3 ppg, 4.2 rpg
Off the Bench
12 – Jessica Petrie – 6-2 – Jr. – F – 11.6 ppg, 4.7 rpg
21 – Eliza Maupin – 6-3 – Sr. – F – 7.9 ppg, 4.4 rpg
5 – Claire Johnson – 5-9 – So. – G – 3.5 ppg, 0.9 rpg
1 – Hailey Weaver – 6-0 – Gr. – G – 2.7 ppg, 2.0 rpg
15 – Kennadi Williams – 5-4 – RFr. – G – 2.6 ppg, 0.8 rpg
34 – Emily Fisher – 6-0 – Jr. – G/F – 1.8 ppg, 1.5 rpg
00 – Alanna Neale – 5-10 – Fr. – G – 1.3 ppg, 0.3 rpg
22 – Natalie Potts [Out] – 6-2 – RSo. – F – Redshirt
3 – Allison Weidner [Out] – 5-10 – Gr. – G – Redshirt
Head Coach: Amy Williams (Nebraska, 1998) 10th Season at Nebraska (176-134); 19th Season Overall (369-243)
NET 54 Indiana Hoosiers (17-13, 6-12 Big Ten)
3 – Maya Makalusky – 6-3 – Fr. – F – 9.3 ppg, 3.1 rpg
8 – Edessa Noyan – 6-3 – Jr. – F – 5.5 ppg, 5.5 rpg
2 – Nevaeh Caffey – 5-10 – Fr. – G – 8.3 ppg, 3.5 rpg
5 – Lenee Beaumont – 6-0 – RSo. – G – 13.6 ppg, 4.8 rpg
10 – Shay Ciezki – 5-7 – Sr. – G – 23.2 ppg, 3.8 rpg
Off the Bench
23 – Zania Socka-Nguemen – 6-3 – So. – F – 11.8 ppg, 8.7 rpg
7 – Jerni Kiaku – 5-7 – Sr. – G – 3.4 ppg, 2.1 rpg
1 – Phoenix Stotijn – 5-9 – So. – G – 2.1 ppg, 0.7 rpg
45 – Jade Ondineme – 6-3 – Jr. – F – 1.4 ppg, 2.3 rpg
22 – Chloe Spreen – 5-10 – So. – G – 0.8 ppg, 0.5 rpg
31 – Faith Wiseman – 6-4 – So. – F – 0.4 ppg, 1.1 rpg
Head Coach: Teri Moren (Purdue, 1992) 12th Season at Indiana (263-125); 23rd Season Overall (462-255)
Thoughts and prediction
Indiana has suffered a couple of significant losses since the start of the year. UCLA transfer Zania Socka-Nguemen scored 19 points on 9-of-12 shooting, while adding 11 rebounds against the Huskers in Lincoln in one of the five Big Ten games she played before being forced out by injury. She has not played since January 22. Indiana has also been affected by the departure of Valentyna Kadlecova, who returned home to her native Czech Republic at the conclusion of the first semester. Kadlecova made 10 starts in the first 11 games.
The Husker women have gotten some confidence back after two straight wins, including an absolute demolition of Rutgers on Senior Day. The Huskers need to hit the glass and turn over the Hoosiers to take control of the game. Indiana has a negative rebounding and turnover margin on the season. They do have explosive scorers, especially Shay Ciezki but they are also a young team whose inexperience sometimes gets the best of them.
Prediction: Nebraska 76 Indiana 71
ATHENS, Ga. (AP) — Kanon Catchings scored a career-high 32 points and Georgia ended No. 16 Alabama's eight-game winning streak with a 98-88 victory Tuesday night.
Catchings ignited the Bulldogs (21-9, 9-8 Southeastern Conference) with 20 points before halftime, leading their fourth win in five games. He was 7 of 13 from 3-point range and delivered a signature highlight with a behind-the-back pass to Somto Cyril for a thunderous slam.
Heading into its final home game of the season, Georgia had likely done enough to clinch its second straight trip to the NCAA Tournament. But tacking a sixth Quad 1 win onto the resume surely sealed a berth in the 68-team field.
The Bulldogs also reached the most regular-season victories since the 2001-02 team went 21-8 under Jim Harrick.
The Crimson Tide (22-8, 12-5) wasted a chance to bolster its seeding for the tournament, despite a spirited back-and-forth down the stretch as the teams traded 3 after 3. Labaron Philon Jr. led Alabama with 26 points.
Catchings, a transfer from BYU in his first season at Georgia, easily eclipsed is previous college best of 23 points.
Thee Bulldogs never trailed after a 12-0 run in the first half, sparked by their defense and Catchings at the offensive end.
Blue Cain turned a steal into a layup, Catchings dunked one off another steal, and a third steal by Jeremiah Wilkinson led to Catchings knocking down a 3-pointer. The sophomore forward scored eight straight points in the spurt, hitting another trey that was set up by an offensive rebound.
Georgia led 50-43 at halftime after Catchings swished his fourth trey on the period just ahead of the buzzer. The frustration of Alabama coach Nate Oats boiled over when he was assessed a technical as his team was heading up court after a Georgia miss.
Down the stretch, the thrilling game was marred by several delays because of a malfunctioning scoreboard.
Alabama: Returns home Saturday to close out the regular season against rival Auburn.
Georgia: Finishes up the regular season at Mississippi State on Saturday.
___
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Shayna Baszler returned to "WWE NXT" for a guest appearance training Kelani Jordan ahead of Vengeance Day this weekend.
Jordan will be taking on Lola Vice in an Underground match on Saturday, looking to settle their feud in the MMA-based gimmick match. Baszler is one of the three during 2024 to fall to Vice under Underground rules, and was shown during Tuesday's "NXT" as the training partner to Jordan.
The segment saw Baszler tell Jordan that Vice was tough and in her element in the Underground match, practicing grappling and striking. Jordan told Baszler that she wanted to bring gymnastics into things, flipping out of a hold before getting dropped by Baszler and told that gymnastics wouldn't work. The segment ended with Jordan delivering a side kick to Baszler's face and walking off.
Baszler left the company at the end of her contract in July, but has since continued to work with the company both as a guest producer and coach at the Performance Center. She also featured during the "Homecoming" episode in September, appearing to tell Sol Ruca and Zaria to get on the same page.
Prior to her departure, Baszler had spent eight years with the company having came through "NXT" as a two-time Women's Champion. She became Women's Tag Team Champion three times after her main roster call-up in 2020.
Read more: Every WWE Star Departure In 2025 So Far
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The Lombardi trophy remains in the NFC after the Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots behind an incredible effort from their defense and run game.
The season before, Philadelphia had a similar roster construction, and it worked out well for them. They also boasted a stellar defense and an outstanding running game, based around Saquon Barkley and Jalen Hurts.
Although last season for the Eagles fell far short of what they were hoping to accomplish, the organization will be ready to compete not only for a third straight NFC East title but also for a Super Bowl.
On the Rich Eisen Show, Rich was asked the question of who would win their second Super Bowl first, between Jalen Hurts and reigning Super Bowl QB Sam Darnold. His answer was less based on statistics and more based on pattern recognition.
If the pattern holds, we could be looking at a minimum of an Eagles Super Bowl appearance.
On his show, Rich Eisen was posed the question of who he thinks would win their second Super Bowl first. His options were between reigning Super Bowl Champion Sam Darnold and the previous season's champion QB Jalen Hurts.
The topic has been raised recently about who the better QB is between the two of them, given Darnold's recent success, which has vaulted him statistically into Jalen Hurts' realm.
Rather than dissecting statistics or going into advanced analytics, Eisen simply chose to believe in history and patterns.
Eisen pointed out that since Super Bowl 57, when the Eagles lost to the Kansas City Chiefs, they've alternated seasons making the Super Bowl. If that trend continues, they're bound for the big game this season.
It will take a lot more than history repeating itself for this to happen. The Eagles have a massive offseason ahead of them, as they still have to make a decision on AJ Brown as well as the TE position.
If they hope to make it back to the Super Bowl at Sofi Stadium, they have some work to do.
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