The New York Mets ended their latest losing streak with a shutout win over a division rival and now it seems they are hoping for a different kind of win over another one.

On Tuesday, the team surprised home fans by gaining some offensive momentum against the Washington Nationals.

“The fourth inning concluded Tuesday with a standing ovation from much of the small crowd at Citi Field, perhaps wondering if what it just witnessed was real,” Mike Puma wrote for the New York Post. “But this wasn’t a mirage. The Mets sent 10 batters to the plate in the inning and scored seven runs. Frustration turned to smiles. The Mets had it all together for a night.”

The team has fallen well short of expectations since Opening Day as new players struggle to adjust and returning ones struggle to stay healthy. Shortly after Juan Soto returned from a stint on the injured list, the team learned that franchise shortstop Francisco Lindor would miss extended time with his own ailment.

MORE FROM FORBESRed Sox Former Manager Alex Cora Breaks Silence On Rejecting PhilliesBy Peter Chawaga

New York Mets Add Former Philadelphia Phillies Draft Pick Jamari Baylor

As the Mets wait for Lindor to recover, news surfaced that the team had acquired infielder Jamari Baylor, once a highly touted prospect in the Philadelphia Phillies’ system, from the independent Atlantic League.

“Southern Maryland Blue Crabs infielder Jamari Baylor had his contract purchased by the New York Mets in a deal that was announced today,” per a news release from the team on Tuesday. “Prior to joining the Blue Crabs, he played four seasons in the Philadelphia Phillies and Colorado Rockies organizations, reaching the High-A level and earning a spot inside the Phillies top prospect list. After starting the 2024 season in the Atlantic League with the York Revolution, he signed with the Toronto Blue Jays and finished the year with High-A Vancouver.”

MORE FROM FORBESRed Sox Former Superstar Breaks 3-Week Silence, Asked About Alex Cora FiringBy Peter Chawaga

New York Mets’ New Infielder Batted .303 With 21 Homers In Atlantic League Last Season

Baylor was a third-round pick by the Phillies in the 2019 draft, joining the organization out of high school and working his way through rookie ball to High-A. He was ranked as a top-25 prospect for the Phillies for several years before joining the Rockies organization.

As his career brought him to the Atlantic League last year, Baylor slashed .303/.421/.552 with a team-high 77 RBI and 21 homers last season. And through the first six games of this season, he batted .353 with a league-leading 10 walks.

His former manager underscored the strength of his last season following the news that he had joined the Mets.

“I was really impressed by his patience at the plate. He's very disciplined for a power guy and he's able to use all fields,” Blue Crabs skipper Brett Jodie said, according to the release. “I really didn't see a weakness or anything he couldn't handle. It's a much deserved opportunity for Jamari, and we're very pumped for him. We'll be following him and hoping he can move up the ladder in the Mets organization.”

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

When Saudi Arabai’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) invested in Newcastle United nearly five years ago, it seemed certain the St James’ Park club was on a route to the top of English and European soccer. It was apparently inevitable that Newcastle would become the next Manchester City or Paris Saint-Germain.

Instead, Eddie Howe’s team is slumped in 14th place in the Premier League table this season, a long way from the upper echelons many predicted they would have reached by now. Howe is under pressure to prove he’s still the right man for the job, but Newcastle has even more to consider than just the future of its manager.

Chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan and a delegation from PIF is visiting the North East this week for meetings that could determine the future direction of Newcastle United. This comes after a withdrawal of funds from LIV Golf and a resetting of several investment focuses that could hit Newcastle hard. PIF isn’t going to be spending as much on sport in the years to come.

Progress has been slow for Newcastle. While the club qualified for the Champions League quicker than anyone expected when PIF arrived in October 2021, making the steps required to challenge for soccer’s biggest prizes haven’t happened. Instead, Newcastle has regressed badly this season, falling down the league table.

The Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) haven’t helped. This limits what clubs like Newcastle United can spend in the transfer market, linking outlay to income. This explains why the club is so focused on either expanding St James’ Park or building a new, larger stadium. Newcastle must find a way to grow revenue as quickly as possible.

Howe has cut a calm and composed figure in recent weeks, even as Newcastle’s league form has plummeted. The 48-year-old is relaxed about PIF’s visit. “It’s something that happens regularly so it's nothing out of the norm for us,” he said. "I always like the chance to talk directly to the owners and to express things from my perspective. It's something we have always done and I look forward to that next week.”

Whatever the outcome of the meetings between Newcastle United’s decision-makers and PIF, the St James’ Park club clearly finds itself at a crossroads. If the Magpies are to become a force to be reckoned with in English and European soccer, this period between now and the start of the summer will be key.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao are apparently still on a collision course for a mega rematch later this year. The two aging boxing icons are in agreement on a fight that was supposed to take place at The Sphere, but it seems that location is set to change along with the date.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39zhhfMGNRk

Where Will Mayweather Vs. Pacquiao II Take Place?

Based on a recent report from BoxingScene, The Sphere is no longer an option. Instead, it appears the fight is headed for another popular Las Vegas venue.

Mayweather and Pacquiao will likely land at either T-Mobile Arena or MGM Grand Garden Arena, with both MGM-affiliated buildings under consideration. "It made no sense to put it at The Sphere — it's not connected to a casino," an official familiar with the talks told BoxingScene, pointing to the high-roller ticket packages and fight-week hospitality that MGM properties build around major boxing cards. The official also warned ticket buyers against secondary-market tickets advertised for The Sphere, calling it “one million percent not happening there.”

When Is Mayweather Vs. Pacquiao II?

Originally, Mayweather-Pacquiao II was headed for September 19, but now it appears the fight could be moved up.

T-Mobile Arena is booked on Sept. 19 with the iHeart Radio festival, but it’s open on Aug. 15 — and that's the date the BoxingScene source cited as the new target. Netflix's global streaming rights remain locked in regardless of when or where it lands.

Is Mayweather Vs. Pacquiao II A Pro Fight Or Exhibition?

Most fans will be happy to know that the fight will count toward both legends' pro records, but this was initially a hang-up for the event.

After Netflix announced the rematch as a sanctioned bout in February, Mayweather flipped at a March 28 meet-and-greet at Caesars Palace and called it an exhibition. Pacquiao Promotions CEO Jas Mathur went public with breach-of-contract claims, citing three signed agreements, advances already paid and potential nine-figure damages if Mayweather walked.

Mayweather has since formally agreed in writing that the rematch is a professional fight, with his 50-0 record officially on the line against Pacquiao’s 62-8-3.

What's Next For The Mayweather Pacquiao Rematch?

The next step is to have the date, location and venue finalized. Then, hopefully we'll see promotional dates for pressers and an undercard take shape.

Mayweather has a June 27 exhibition against Mike Zambidis on the calendar before this rematch, while Pacquiao last fought Mario Barrios to a majority draw for the WBC welterweight title in July 2025. The level of cross-promotional activity has hit a different gear than the Tyson Fury return ahead of his April fight with Arslanbek Makhmudov, which is exactly the kind of build a Mayweather-Pacquiao II needs to deliver on the ticket prices the new venue will demand.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

Formula 1 returns to racing after an extended schedule delay caused by the war in Iran. Now the Miami Grand Prix brings racing back with some changes to the regulations. Here’s when, where, and how to watch race week.

It’s hard to believe that it’s been a month since Formula 1 last raced. When the Grand Prix of Japan ended on March 29, the FIA and Formula 1 opted to cancel the Bahrain Grand Prix and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. With it, the F1 schedule dropped to 22 races, creating a five-week break.

At long last, the Miami Grand Prix returns on Friday. With the break, the FIA and F1 have used the additional time to tweak the regulations following driver complaints about the first three races of the season. The changes should allow for better pure racing over harvesting battery power. The additional time has allowed the technical teams to get a better handle on the changes to the car that were introduced for the 2026 season.

When To Watch The Miami GP

The first taste of F1 after the break will arrive on Friday, May 1 and end with the Grand Prix on Sunday, May 3. Here’s the schedule that includes pre-event coverage, all times Eastern Time:

FRIDAY, MAY 1

• Practice – 12 pm ET
• Sprint Qualifying – 4:30 pm ET

SATURDAY, MAY 3

• Sprint race – 12 pm ET
• Qualifying – 4 pm ET

SUNDAY, MAY 4

• Grand Prix of Miami – 4 pm ET

Where To Watch The Miami Grand Prix

In the U.S., all Formula 1 races are on Apple TV. Fans have the ability to watch the race with the F1 TV feed, the Sky Sports feed, and driver cams for each driver on the grid.

Formula 1 is a truly global sport, and with it, F1 is broadcast in over 70 countries and nearly 100 networks. Find the country and the networks F1 broadcasts to around the globe on the Formula 1 Broadcast Information page.

How To Watch The Miami Grand Prix

In the U.S., watch the Miami Grand Prix via the Apple TV app for smart TVs, the Apple TV app for iPhone and iPad from the App Store, or for Android, the Apple TV app is now available in Google Play.

For those outside the U.S. Sky Sports is the exclusive broadcaster in the U.K. It can be streamed via Sky Go or NOW.

Fans can also stream all races via F1 TV via subscription.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

Brian Kortovich is making quite the impact off of the basketball court as a former player with his brand, ACES.

The former pro basketball player never quite made it professionally to the NBA -- he had preseason camp stints with the New York Knicks and New Jersey Nets -- but he played professionally overseas in countries such as France, Kuwait, Israel and the Dominican Republic.

Kortovich also made his name on the streets of New York City's EBC RuckerPark against well-known players such as Joe Hammond and Kevin Durant, winning the scoring title in the process. However, an Achilles injury eventually spelled the end of his basketball career, leading him into starting ACES as a brand platform.

That passion for basketball that led him to an athletic career eventually paved the way for the 44-year-old Kortovich to make his mark with his brand. While the platform is well-known for its clothing -- think stylish jackets and hats -- it also acts as a content marketing brand.

Kortovich -- through ACES -- has held activations at major events and has had partnerships with the likes of Nike, NBA 2K, New Era. The brand recently held an activation during 2026 NBA All-Star weekend with Chase and DoorDash.

Those stints in the NBA and in NYC led to Kortovich developing friendships with players such as Knicks great Allan Houston and former longtime NBA vet P.J. Tucker.

Houston detailed that he met Kortovich following the conclusion of his own career -- he was hired in 2008 by the Knicks organization as an assistant to the president of basketball operations -- when Kortovich was a player in training camp in 2010. They bonded over a three-point shooting contest that both claim was a tie to this day.

"I've been enjoying and impressed by how Brian has stuck to a vision, using his platform to try to help people, but also something that's very strategic, right branding and is very nuanced," said Houston. "It's intentional, especially when it involves helping other people. I think that's really what I've seen with with him is he's really formulated good relationships, held on to them. With me it's not about -- and this is another thing that's really hard, especially harder today more than ever because everything is so transactional -- is being authentic.

"Obviously you could help me, but I'm here to help you just as much," Houston continued. "My mother would always tell me things have to be reciprocal, and everybody has to win. Most people will come out and say, 'Hey, I need you to do this.' But they're not sure or willing to say what I can do for you. That's another thing that I've appreciated about about BK."

Kortovich said basketball being taken away from him led him to becoming the successful businessman and entrepreneur that he is today.

"Basketball was taken away from me early," said Kortovich. "I got a cup of coffee in the league or whatnot. Never made a team, but got close, and it didn't change who I was. So for Allan to speak truly that to me, meant a lot. There's one more thing he said -- I think he remembers this in 2024 after he spoke to all the All-Americans at the MBPA -- he said something like, 'Brian, thank you. I couldn't put together the top 30 kids in the country. You did and gave me a platform.'

"I'm like, 'Whoa no, thank you," Kortovich continued. "They all wanted to hear him speaking, the impact that he had on their lives by speaking to them. I want to provide value in a platform for him, so for him to recognize that in that moment, that meant a lot to me."

Brian Kortovich, Allan Houston Outline The ‘Authenticity’ Appeal Of ACES

Kortovich hammers home the "authenticity" factor is a big reason why the Knicks great and himself have been such good friends over the years. It's also a big reason why he's been able to grow the ACES platform.

"Why I think we've been able to grow this platform across all the verticals from grassroots to the professional ranks is you can say authenticity," said Kortovich. “But to hear someone of Allan's stature and what he's done, it's who he is as a person, too. That's why Allan has longevity. That's why I think we connected right away, too. It's faith. We share faith, faith in the Lord and God. I wouldn't be here without that as well, and I know he wouldn't be either.”

Houston doubled down and also said one of the reasons Kortovich has made such an impact in the industry among basketball fans is that he's "authentic" and "real."

"I still go back to the same thing -- people want to be a part of something that's authentic, that's real, that you want to be a part of at the end of the day," said Houston of Kortovich. "I think he has created that attraction. We always want to start with what we're doing and what we can get or gain, but we skip the most important part of who are we, and the thing that Brian has held on to is who we authentically are and let that be the root and the tree and then the branches and the fruit come off of that.

"We always want to start with the fruit and then work back," Houston continued. "It really comes back to just being who you are, staying consistent with that, and being that all the time. Those people are going to be the people who are in line with you. But also they're going to be people who are going to be consistently with you. Everything's relationships."

Houston said his favorite ACES item are the nylon jackets and what makes the brand stand out. He said his three-point shooting is what made him stand out during his NBA career, ranking second in Knicks franchise history in the category.

“I would say those nylon kind of jackets are unique,” said Houston. “They have a style to them, a functionality to them. They’re versatile, they can have an athletic, a lifestyle appeal. In fashion, you got to have something that is a staple. You gotta have something that you’re identified with. For me, it was shooting. You have something that people can say, ‘Oh, that’s that.’ I think that’s probably the thing that I would say stands out.”

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

On Monday, The Athletic reported that a committee of MLS owners had engaged in preliminary discussions about potentially relocating the Vancouver Whitecaps to Las Vegas.

The revelation shouldn’t be particularly surprising to those who have followed the Whitecaps’ unprofitable and increasingly disadventageous stadium situation.

League commissioner Don Garber has previously gone on the record with his assertion that the Whitecaps’ status as secondary tenants at BC Place is unworkable. The Whitecaps themselves have been transparent about searching for new ownership that could assist in the search to find a permanent stadium.

And in light of the latest reporting, both MLS and the Whitecaps have re-iterated those sentiments while indicating their desire to remain in the Pacific Northwest.

From MLS to The Athletic:

We remain focused on supporting the club in identifying a sustainable long-term solution, and our preference is to find a path that allows the Whitecaps to continue to grow and succeed in Vancouver. At the same time, we have a responsibility to ensure the long-term health of the league and its clubs, and we will evaluate all options, including interest that has been expressed in the club from other markets and investor groups.

From a Whitecaps public statement:

We are aware of today’s reporting. The club has faced well-documented structural challenges around stadium economics, venue access, and revenue limitations that have made it difficult to attract buyers committed to keeping the team in Vancouver. Over the past 16 months, we have had serious conversations with more than 100 parties, and to date, no viable offer has emerged that would keep the club here. … If there is a local ownership group with the vision and resources to chart a path forward, we urge them to come forward.

There is a considerable segment of the American soccer media that doesn’t trust the league is telling the truth on this matter, and would actually prefer the club relocate to a glitzier location. Perhaps it’s understandable, given how close the Columbus Crew came to moving to Austin in the previous decade.

But timing is everything. And the far more likely reality is that these continuous revelations – on the record and anonymously – are an attempt to leverage the timing of the World Cup to create the urgency required to attract an in-market buyer.

The alternative, relocating an MLS club from a World Cup host city only months after hosting World Cup matches, would be a devastating blow to the perceived stability of the MLS brand.

Leveraging Circumstances Of 2026 World Cup

For starters, it’s telling that the league and club offices have leaned into 2026 as the year to be so forthright about the scheduling difficulties the Whitecaps have encountered during their 15-year residency at the Province-owned venue.

Yes, the Whitecaps’ home schedule in 2026 is extremely front loaded because of a venue schedule crunch, and it will force the club to play at least one Leagues Cup game away from home this summer. But that crunch is unique to 2026, in which BC Place will host six World Cup matches. Those host duties, plus the installation of a temorary grass surface at a facility, will force the Whitecaps to play nine consecutive away matches beginning Saturday and continuing through July 25.

Those constraints would not apply to future seasons at BC Place. And while the venue still isn’t suitable for the club’s long-term financial future because of the relatively unfavorable lease terms the British Columbia government has offered, the need to relocate might not feel as urgent in 2027 and beyond if there was faith that it would happen eventually.

Further, the flip to a late July-to-late May schedule starting in 2027 would conceivably give the Whitecaps more fixture flexibility at BC Place, should they remain there. The CFL’s BC Lions, the other long-term tenant at the venue, play a June-to-November schedule, the first six weeks of which would now come during MLS’ abbreviated summer off-season. The MLS Cup Playoffs would come in the spring when there would be no CFL clash.

Bad Stadium, But Healthy Market

Meanwhile, under the club’s current sporting director Axel Schuster and manager Jesper Sorensen, the Whitecaps have become one of the league’s stronger-perfoming clubs on the field, in the transfer market and at the box office.

The Whitecaps reached the Concacaf Champions Cup and MLS Cup finals in 2025. Aided by a home-heavy schedule to begin 2026, they sit second in the 2026 Supporters’ Shield race for best regular season record, three points behind a San Jose side that has played one more game.

Last summer, the 'Caps made the kind of signing that brings global visibility by acquiring longtime Bayern Munich and German national team star Thomas Muller on a free transfer. And since his MLS debut last Augst, the club have been one of the more consistent draws in MLS at the box office, with crowds above 20,000 for all of their 17 home regular season and playoff matches. They currently sit 10th out of 30 in 2026 average attendance, despite having played a higher volume of home matches so far than any other club.

Don’t get it wrong. The economic problems of remaining in BC Place, where the club’s ability to recoup matchday revenues is constricted because the venue is government-owned, are real.

The club’s $46 million in revenue generated in 2026, per Forbes MLS valuations, is the lowest figure in the league, and its estimated value of $445 million is second lowest. But those figures aren’t completely out of line with other smaller market MLS clubs, and they’re actually kind of impressive when factoring in that the only other clubs that play in stadiums not operated by their ownership groups are in New York and Chicago.

But this is a healthy MLS market, if not a healthy stadium situation. And in the brief history of MLS clubs that have relocated or contracted, there has never been one that did so despite such a relatively healthy market presence and ownership desire to keep the club located locally.

The Tampa Bay Mutiny and Miami fusion were both in the bottom third of MLS attendance when they were contracted following the 2001 season. The move of the San Jose Earthquakes to Houston in 2005 was led by the club’s ownership group amid stadium frustrations, not the league. Chivas USA was by far the league’s least-supported team when it folded following the 2014 season.

2026 World Cup Bump Not As Simple As 1994

The biggest legacy of the 1994 World Cup was the foundation of MLS, a first-division competition to replace the defunct NASL. Fast forward 32 years and Garber has said he expects the tournament to be “rocket fuel” for the league’s continued growth.

But while MLS competes in a far more soccer literate nation than when it launched in 1996, it also does so in a far more crowded soccer market. Through most of the 1990s, it was difficult to near impossible to regularly watch live pro soccer from around the globe. There were no other competing American competitions either, be they men’s lower-level domestic leagues like the USL Championship and Canadian Premier League, or the NWSL that is one of the world’s top women’s league’s and one of North American sports’ hottest commercial commodities.

It’s not enough to simply exist in the aftermath of the World Cup. Rather, MLS must compete for the right to be seen as the right platform for commercial investors to embrace as a vehicle for siezing upon the World Cup bump.

The spectacle of one of its most successful teams on the field and at the box office relocating in the aftermath of the tournament would be a daming blow to that argument. It would suggest a league that prioritizes real estate above all other metrics of sporting health, and one with less authenticity and stability than other entities at home or abroad.

That doesn’t mean it won’t happen. But it means we should continue to believe MLS still desperately wants to avoid.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

The 2026 NFL Draft featured plenty of playmakers that will be key contributors during their rookie seasons. But which of these players will be up for AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year at the end of the season?

When looking at betting odds from FanDuel Sportsbook, it appears there are two frontrunners. Here’s a look at the five players who have the highest odds of winning.

Betting Odds For 2026 AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year

Las Vegas Raiders QB Fernando Mendoza (+320)

Mendoza did it all for the Indiana Hoosiers last season, winning the Heisman Trophy and leading IU to its first national championship in program history. Mendoza threw for 3,535 yards with 41 passing touchdowns and just six interceptions with a 72% completion rate.

While Mendoza is the current betting favorite to win rookie of the year, there’s a chance he isn’t starting for the Raiders to begin the season. Las Vegas signed Kirk Cousinsc, who had a 5-3 starting record with the Atlanta Falcons.

Arizona Cardinals RB Jeremiyah Love (+410)

It’s a new era in Arizona under first-year head coach Mike LaFleur and the 2026 season will be greatly defined by how well Love, the No. 3 overall selection in the draft, performs. Love is considered to be a generational talent at the running back position. The Notre Dame standout is a ferocious back that also has top-tier speed which showed at the combine with a 4.36 40-yard dash. Love rushed for 1,372 yards last season with 18 touchdowns along with 27 receptions for 280 yards and three scores.

Tennessee Titans WR Carnell Tate (+700)

Tate, who was selected No. 4 overall, will have no trouble seeing his fair share of targets as a rookie. While the Titans have Calvin Ridley and signed slot receiver Wan’Dale Robinson, Tate could quickly become quarterback Cam Ward’s top option in the passing game.

Tate didn’t drop a pass last season at Ohio State and excelled at hauling in 50-50 balls. Tate hauled in 12 of 14 contested targets in 2025. Offensive coordinator Brian Daboll will make this a pass-heavy scheme and the 6-foot-2 Tate will be a major beneficiary and receive many deep ball opportunities. Tate ranked No. 2 in the nation last season with nine catches of 40 or more yards.

New Orleans Saints WR Jordyn Tyson (+750)

The Saints did right by quarterback Tyler Shough by selecting Tyson with the No. 8 overall pick. Tyson was a smooth route runner at Arizona State and has enough speed to get open vertically. The 6-foot-2 wideout had 61 receptions for 711 yards and eight touchdowns in 2025, missing the final three games with a hamstring injury. Tyson’s production will hinge on staying healthy, something he was never able to do for a full season in four collegiate seasons.

Seattle Seahawks RB Jadarian Price (+850)

Price was the backup to Jeremiyah Love at Notre Dame but was still selected by the Seahawks in the first round with the No. 32 overall pick. Price will be part of a backfield that includes Zach Charbonnet, who’s currently recovering from a torn ACL. The 5-foot-11 and 203-pound running back had 280 carries in his college career for 1,692 yards with 21 rushing touchdowns.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

Mike Tyson isn’t done boxing.

The 59-year-old who was once known as “the Baddest Man on the Planet” is still boxing as he prepares to enter his 60s. The former undisputed world heavyweight champion fought in a sanctioned fight against Jake Paul in November of 2024, who is more than 30 years younger than Tyson.

The fight became the biggest boxing gate in US history outside of Las Vegas.

Tyson has been in talks to fight Floyd Mayweather Jr. in an exhibition fight for his next bout, which was originally scheduled for the Spring of 2026. The knockout king said he can’t really talk much about the plans for the Mayweather fight, but didn’t rule it out of the equation. He said “there’s not much he can talk on.”

His advisor, Amer Abdallah, recently told Boxing News that the agreement remains intact and that there is a contract in place.

Tyson said the potential bout against Mayweather is “interesting” and said that he’s “thankful” that he’s still able to fight at his current age. He said one of the biggest things that impacts his future in fighting is his family and how they feel about it due to the grueling preparation it takes for each fight.

The legendary boxer jokes that his trainers are there to “brutalize” him but is serious about the amount of preparation that it takes at this stage of his life to prepare for fights.

“My wife doesn’t like it, she doesn’t like the pain,” said Tyson in a one-on-one interview. “She doesn’t like to see me go through the pain. My trainers are there to brutalize me. I don’t think they like me. They really do a number on me. The training is bad. My wife doesn’t like it when I come back screaming and crying in the middle. Every time I breathe, my body’s just collapsing. She doesn't like that stuff, just the ugly part of boxing that people don't see. She doesn't like that part at all."

Tyson’s 2024 bout with Paul was his first professional bout since 2005 when he fought Kevin McBride. However, he has fought a couple of exhibition bouts, most notably against former four-division world champion Roy Jones Jr. back in 2020, which was ruled a draw.

He said that he has to box for at least “three or four months” to prepare for a fight and that he trains every day to prepare for a fight.

“I don’t mind, I’ll do four months, but they don’t like me to go that long,” said Tyson. “But I like four or five months. I like to train for a long period of time. I gotta keep that real about that, because I want to do a lot of boxing, so I gotta prepare myself. I haven’t boxed in two years. I have the box for four months, three months to get right for all this stuff. I’m 60 years old. Gotta keep moving again for 10 rounds.”

Mike Tyson On Reinventing Himself, Becoming a Successful Businessman And Entrepreneur

Tyson has reinvented his public image over the years and become a successful entrepreneur and businessman. After filing for bankruptcy in 2003 and initially retiring after his 2005 bout against McBride, the New York native now hosts a podcast, co-founded Carma HoldCo – which features his cannabis products.

His company generated $200 million in revenue in 2024. That’s obviously not adding in the $20 million he earned from the Paul fight in a loss. His net worth is estimated to be up to $30 million.

Tyson said there’s still “a lot of things” that he wants to do before he passes, saying his mindset is a lot different compared to when he was in his 20s and 30s during the 1980s and 1990s when he was at the pinnacle of his boxing career.

“That I’m going to die very shortly – that’s what I think about,” said Tyson about the difference now compared to back then. "I think about my mortality a lot. I just want to be able to do things in this period of time before I'm not here any longer. It's just a lot of things I want to do.

“I heard an actress. I forgot her name, it could have been Demi Moore. she said that she’s very grateful for everything that she has,” Tyson continued. “There’s no doubt, but I’m just not satisfied. There’s more I want to do. I just have that deep, empty hole in me that wants more, and I don’t know if that’s a bad thing. I heard somebody else admitted to it, so I don’t feel too guilty to admit to it.”

Mike Tyson Details Rainbow Sliders Investment And Why He Wants To Be Involved With Healthy Products

Along with his growing business, Carma HoldCo, Tyson is also investing further in the lifestyle and consumer brands business with Sugar Factor’s Rainbow Sliders. The sliders will be available in Jewel-Osco locations throughout the Midwest in states such as Illinois, Indiana and Iowa with a larger national rollout planned.

There will also be protein sliders released later on during the summer after the initial rollout of the Rainbow Sliders.

The sliders are notable because they have vibrantly colored buns with up to 16 grams of protein per serving. They’re available in five to 10 packs.

“It was a no-brainer,” said Tyson is why he’s getting involved with Rainbow Sliders. “I thought it was an easy win. You look at the fact that (health secretary) Robert Kennedy and the President made me pretty much the ambassador of health the other day when we were doing a commercial for the Super Bowl. I'm very grateful for that.”

Tyson reiterates how healthy the sliders are and expresses his enthusiasm over being involved with healthy products moving forward.

“Absolutely, sky’s the limit,” said Tyson. “We’re gonna explore these all over the planet. It’s healthy to fully cook beef sliders. Eight ounces worth of beef patties, vibrant color buns. Eerything's natural. There's no bad stuff in there.”

There will also be collectible rubber ducks available in every box (five different colors) with a special ultra-rare limited edition Mike Tyson duck available.

“Only if you’re lucky, you know how that goes,” said Tyson while laughing.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

Since the Premier League was formed, the city of London has always had a stranglehold on the division.

Maybe it’s not surprising that England’s biggest city would produce multiple teams competing in the top flight.

After all, it already has some of the country’s biggest and most famous sides, like Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.

And while trophies have often been won by clubs in the North of England, the Manchester giants or teams from Liverpool, the shifting demographics and underlying problems of wealth distribution in the UK have led to an increase in the concentration of London teams.

As the Premier League grew, it became more cosmopolitan, and players were more likely to arrive from Brazil than Burnley. This new generation of international talent didn’t hold the same reverence for teams in Northern England and would often prioritise living in the bright lights of London.

Investment in the UK tends to focus on the capital, and super wealthy individuals, much like the players, tend to be attracted to the South East.

All of which meant that, in addition to traditional big players like Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea, traditionally smaller teams have sustained some of the longest spells in their history in the top flight.

Crystal Palace, for example, had never managed more than four years in the top division before regaining Premier League status in 2013, but is now on course for its 14th consecutive year in the division.

Likewise, Fulham, who were bankrolled by disgraced financier Mohamed Al-Fayed throughout the 2000s, also managed a 13-season streak between 2001-14.

The inception of the Premier League also brought record stays for Queens Park Rangers, Brentford and Wimbledon.

However, in the past four years, the balance of the division shifted more than ever before. Since 2022, there have been seven London teams in the top flight, a third of the division; before then, this had only occurred once in the 1990s.

The shift of power to the south of England is even more pronounced when you consider that Brighton and Hove Albion and Bournemouth have also been in the division during the period of London club domination.

Yet as far back as 2017, pundit Gary Neville was engaged in concerned discussions about the trend.

“What I will say is well done to Brighton but it is a shift to the south like you would not believe," Neville told Sky Sports Monday Night Football.

"You think about Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Hull potentially going down, that’s three more northern clubs. Then the Yorkshire clubs, the Sheffield clubs, Leeds and you think Newcastle might not come back up. It's a worry for the north of England.

"The investment is into the south and then the Premier League is attracting investment. The players want to live in the south.

"I heard a few weeks ago ridiculous talk of northern teams, north east teams and Yorkshire teams having London training grounds.

"That would be the most incredible thing but you can actually see it. The players would live in London in the week and then travel to games. It can’t happen can it? Suggestions like this are being mooted and that's scary.

“The idea of a departure from your territory to do these things is unbelievable, but if that's what's necessary to attract the players.”

Since Neville made those remarks, the stranglehold on the Premier League from London teams has become even more intense.

This is a historic shift. When the English first division was established in the 1800s, the most southerly team was Birmingham’s Aston Villa, with the majority of sides hailing from the Midlands and the North West.

Cold, blustery northern cities are the bedrock of the UK soccer culture, and it would be a shame if that changed.

Yet there is a real prospect that Millwall could be promoted this season, and if they are, we could end up with a league where nearly half of the teams come from the capital city.

That scenario depends on West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur avoiding relegation.

With the increasing concentration of London teams in the Premier League, perhaps for the good of competitive balance and the traditional regional diversity of the English game, it may be necessary for a London club to be relegated.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

We’re 10 days into the First Round of the NBA Playoffs and already the Oklahoma Thunder have made light work of the Suns with a series sweep. Yes, they are that good. Who can catch them?

Out of the eight matchups, three hang in the balance. In the Western Conference, Denver’s 12-point win over Minnesota last night gets them back to 3-2. The Nuggets are now $1.66 favourites to win the series largely thanks to the twin Wolves injuries to star player Anthony Edwards and key role player Donte DiVincenzo. Lots happening in that series too with post-match brawls, a spectator fight in the stands and someone stole Jokic’s underwear.

In the Eastern Conference the underdog Raptors are tied with Cleveland at 2-2 which would have Cavs fans nervous heading into Game 5 tomorrow. The Raptors – who are listed as $4o1 to win the NBA title – almost blew it on Sunday shooting 13 percent from outside the arc. Thank God for Scottie Barnes and those free throws he nailed at the death. In the other arm wrestle, the fancied Knicks are in a dogfight with Atlanta at 2-2 and while the series has been tight, it looks like they finally figured out the Hawks in Game 4 when they blew it open with a 16-point win.

By next week we’ll be down to the final eight teams. But for now, we’ve still got some cracking games ahead of us. There’s a lot that has happened. Here are eight early observations and takes in the NBA Playoffs on the teams still in the hunt and chasing an NBA title.

1. Oklahoma, The Great

How do you stop a team that bats deep and a team where everyone can do everything on a basketball court on any given night? They used 14 players in Game 1 which was their biggest win of the series by 35 points. That night, bench rotation player Jaylin Williams was a +24 on the court – equal team highest – along with MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Their scoring has such an even spread, so much that Chet Holmgren is their second best scorer across the league in the playoffs ranked 51 for total points. It’s the Thunder – maybe Spurs? – then daylight. How do you stop Oklahoma? You can’t.

2. LeBron’s Aura

At 41, LeBron is the reason the Lakers are leading 3-1 against the youthful and Durant-less Rockets. We didn’t think we’d be saying that, hey? He’s obviously lost a step. So we’re not seeing him go proper Hulk, driving down the lane at speed and ripping buckets at will. It’s been more methodical. A far more patient approach. He’s picking off plays before they happen. In Game 3, in Houston, the overtime game, LeBron played a monster 45 minutes. That steal and three-point bucket he made in the dying seconds to get the Lakers to overtime is what high performance looks like in the playoffs. And he’s doing all of it without Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves which is even more impressive.

3. Ayo Dosunmu Is Elite And You Can’t Tell Me Otherwise

The Game 4 hero for Minnesota popped off for 43 points in 42 minutes shooting five triples and going at 76.5 percent from the field. He helped propel the Wolves to a 62 point second half; Dosunmu accounted for 27 of those points and went into takeover mode. It’s his precision under pressure that has stood out the most. So far in the playoffs he’s ranked no.2 overall in shooting percentage from the field at 64 and ranked fifth for three-ball shooting (52.9 percent). He has also scored the fifth most points in five playoff games with 109 sitting behind Cade Cunningham and Nikola Jokic. The Wolves will need the Ayo Show to continue as they look to clinch the series against the Nuggets.

4. The Phoenix Suns Are A Mess

It’s not a good look when your bluechip player puts the referees on full blast in a post-match presser after losing badly to the reigning champions. That player – Devin Booker in case you missed it – also got fined $35,000 for it. The 4-0 series drubbing exposed a flawed Suns roster that has stagnated. The Suns will head into the Summer with more questions than answers. They have no identity. They are stuck with a high payroll and no depth. Booker’s impact vanished when the pressure went up. And tactically they’re too predictable and lack defensive cohesion. Watch this space.

5. Dylan Harper Is Insanely Good

Without Victor Wembanyama who could have imagined that the likes of Dylan Harper would rise to help fill the void? In Game 3, the Spurs were down six against Portland at the half. Enter Harper who scored 22 second half points as the Spurs outscored Portland 61-43 to win by 12 on the road. Yes, Harper’s shooting was elite – 27 game points going 9-from-12 from the field – but it was his blistering moves that had everyone talking: the stutter step, the drive into the lane, step-back threes, precision passing. So much youthful confidence. And no Wemby to mop up on the floor either. Harper looks noticeably more advanced than some of his rookie class and we very well could be watching one of the best rookie guards in recent years.

6. Colin Murray-Boyles Is A Brute On The Floor

Murray-Boyles is just 20-years-old and is already one of the key storylines of the playoffs so far. In the regular season across 57 games, he was averaging 8.5 points with five rebounds; in the playoffs those numbers have doubled to 17 points per game, 7.3 rebounds on 65.9 percent shooting. The Raptors have found something here. The 6-foot-7 forward can play small. He’s eaten into Poeltl’s minutes. On a limited Raptors team Murray-Boyles’ compete level has elevated his game. Although he’s still raw and can lack composure in certain high-pressure schemes – especially when shooting or protecting the ball – the fight in him has made him the perfect playoff player that the Raptors have needed.

7. Boston Celtics Really Love Shooting Threes

The Celtics set a franchise record 24 threes against the 76ers in Game 4. In four games they have hit 73-from-194, the most out of any team in the playoffs. Their main three-point contributions have come from Tatum (13), Pritchard (13) and Jaylen Brown (11). They’re also the no.1 scoring team so far with 456 total points. All of it is boring, vanilla, basketball. But it’s working. Will it hold up as the pressure becomes greater?

8. Desmond Bane Is The Magic’s MVP Right Now

When Bane catches fire from the wing, the Pistons have had to think twice about doubling Paolo Banchero and or Franz Wagner. Bane has also been able to move and find the right gaps inside the Pistons zones, which has forced them into a man-on-man situation at times. In Game 3, he exploded for seven triples and the Pistons had no answers for him. Once he landed his fourth triple, it forced the Pistons to guard him from deep which opened up Banchero and Wagner. Bane has the equal-most threes in the playoffs with 15 – tied with Maxey – and is hitting them at 44.1 percent. This mid series dominance from Bane has put the Magic on the brink of winning the series.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

It’s been four years since Jimmie Johnson competed in his only Indianapolis 500, but the seven-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion will be supporting an effort at this year’s 110th running of the world’s biggest race.

NASCAR’s Legacy Motor Club, the team Johnson owns, is partnering with Arrow McLaren for the May 24 Indy 500. Brian Campe, Director, Advanced Engineering at Legacy Motor Club, will serve as the race strategist for 2014 Indianapolis 500 winner Ryan Hunter-Reay on the No. 31 Chevrolet.

Campe previously won the Indianapolis 500 in 2015 as Juan Pablo Montoya’s Strategist and Lead Engineer.

Additionally, Olivier Boisson, Head of Damper Engineering at Arrow McLaren, who was part of Arrow McLaren Team Principal Tony Kanaan’s Indy 500-winning team in 2013, will be Hunter-Reay’s Race Engineer. Didier Francesia, Shop Crew Chief at Arrow McLaren, will work as the No. 31 Crew Chief in search of a third career Indy 500 win (2008 and 2021).

Campe previously worked with Johnson at the Indianapolis 500 in 2022, when the seven-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion was named Indy 500 Rookie Of the Year with Chip Ganassi Racing.

He was also two-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion Kyle Larson’s race strategist in the 2024 Indianapolis 500.

Johnson is expected to be at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway often leading up to the 110th Indianapolis 500 on May 24.

Additionally, Olivier Boisson, Head of Damper Engineering at Arrow McLaren, who was part of Arrow McLaren Team Principal Tony Kanaan’s Indy 500-winning team in 2013, will be Hunter-Reay’s Race Engineer. Didier Francesia, Shop Crew Chief at Arrow McLaren, will work as the No. 31 Crew Chief in search of a third career Indy 500 win (2008 and 2021).

Although Johnson has focused his efforts on his Legacy Motor Club NASCAR operation, while running selected races throughout the year, the El Cajon, California native continues to remain involved with the Indy 500 by allowing Campe to be part of Hunter-Reay’s operation.

Arrow McLaren Announces Indy 500 Key Partners

Arrow McLaren also announced GXO Logistics and Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA) as official partners of the team for Hunter-Reay, who also won the 2012 NTT IndyCar Series Championship.

Hunter-Reay was previously announced to drive Arrow McLaren’s fourth entry for this year’s Indianapolis 500, joining the team’s full-season lineup of Pato O’Ward, Nolan Siegel and Christian Lundgaard. The Fort Lauderdale, Florida, native – nicknamed “Captain America” – brings a wealth of experience and a proven championship pedigree to the team with 395 IndyCar Series starts, 18 victories and 47 podiums across 21 seasons. Hunter-Reay was a contender last year at “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,” leading 48 laps and competing at the front of the field before a fuel-related issue sidelined his car with just over 30 laps remaining.

“I’m thrilled to be back on track for this year’s Indy 500 and grateful for the incredible support I’ve received from the team and partners supporting the No. 31 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet,” Hunter-Reay said. “GXO Logistics actually brings in several familiar faces from my career. It’s certainly an honor to work with their organization. I also look forward to getting to know the group at ASYMCA and contributing to the impactful work they do for military families.”

GXO Logistics and ASYMCA branding will also be present on Hunter-Reay’s No. 31 firesuit, and GXO Logistics branding will be present on the No. 5, No. 6 and No. 7 Arrow McLaren Chevrolets later in the season at the Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington D.C.

"We are excited to welcome Armed Services YMCA and GXO Logistics to the team as Official Partners for the Indianapolis 500,” said Kevin Thimjon, President, Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team. “Both are world-class organizations set to join our champion fourth car-entry Ryan Hunter-Reay and the rest of the 31-car team in Indianapolis in May, and we look forward to working with both groups.”

GXO Logistics is a global logistics leader with more than 150,000 team members across more than 1,000 facilities. The organization specializes in helping its clients efficiently solve complex logistics challenges with technologically advanced supply chain and ecommerce solutions at scale.

“Our collaboration with Arrow McLaren reflects a strong alignment in values through precision, discipline, and the ability to execute flawlessly in high-pressure environments,” said Michael Jacobs, President, Americas and Asia Pacific, GXO. “Supporting Ryan Hunter-Reay and the No. 31 team at the Indianapolis 500 underscores how our expertise in complex operations translates seamlessly into elite motorsport, where preparation, teamwork, and execution define success at the highest level.”

Currently celebrating its 165th year, ASYMCA is the oldest military support organization in the United States. The organization works to enhance the lives of military members and their families in spirit, mind, and body through programs relevant to the unique challenges of military life, with a focus on providing needed programs and services for junior enlisted personnel and their families.

“We are thrilled to have Arrow McLaren as a partner of the ASYMCA,” said William French, Vice Admiral, USN, Ret, President and CEO, ASYMCA. “Being part of the 110th Indianapolis 500 offers us an opportunity to bring more awareness to a new audience. It also shows our military families that they are seen and supported.”

The primary partner for the No. 31 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet will be announced soon.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

The New York Mets suffered a brutal sweep at home courtesy of two back-to-back losses to the Colorado Rockies on Sunday.

Now, with the team reeling and searching for answers as it prepares to take on the division rival Washington Nationals, the Mets seem to have hit a new low.

“It is frequently tempting and often unwise to label anything in baseball that happens in April ‘rock bottom,’” Tim Britton wrote for The Athletic. “But Sunday’s doubleheader sweep by the Colorado Rockies at home, in which the New York Mets scored a total of one run, sure better be the worst it feels at Citi Field in 2026.”

With the team searching for answers, though, there seems to be little that the front office can do to turn things around at this point. After the team missed the playoffs last year, president of baseball operations David Stearns has already overhauled the roster and fired many of the team’s coaches.

Virtually the only significant move left available would be a change at manager and calls for Carlos Mendoza’s job are certainly getting louder. In the meantime, though, the team has turned to a recent castoff from the crosstown rival New York Yankees.

MORE FROM FORBESDodgers’ Dave Roberts Sends Shohei Ohtani Message As Concerns MountBy Peter Chawaga

New York Mets Add New York Yankees’ Trade Deadline Acquisition With Season In Crisis

Shortly after Sunday’s double-header, news surfaced that the Mets had signed outfielder Austin Slater, who played for the Yankees last season after they acquired him shortly before last year’s trade deadline from the Chicago White Sox.

As the Yankees pushed toward the playoffs, Slater slashed just .120/.120/.120 with three hits and 16 strikeouts in 25 at-bats with the team. He did not factor into the Yankees’ playoff run and the team cut ties with him in the offseason.

Slater signed a minor-league deal with the Detroit Tigers for this season and was released shortly afterward, then he joined the Miami Marlins just before Opening Day before being released on Sunday.

MORE FROM FORBESPhillies Long-Time Pitcher Joins NL Contender Long After Historic DebutBy Peter Chawaga

New York Mets Replace Veteran With New York Yankees Castoff

Now, as the Mets look for some kind of jolt to save their season, it seems the team is hoping the Yankees’ castoff can be a positive replacement for outfield veteran Tommy Pham, who was designated for assignment in a corresponding move.

“Pham and Slater are both right-handed hitting outfielders, and Slater has more of a reputation as a lefty-masher even though his numbers against southpaws have been average to mediocre over the last three seasons,” Mark Polishuk noted for MLB Trade Rumors. “Slater should slide right into Pham’s role as the complement to the left-handed hitting Carson Benge, who has yet to get going at the plate in his rookie season.”

Still, with the season in crisis, the addition of a new platoon option in the outfield is hardly the kind of change that many Mets fans are calling for.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

Cooper Flagg won the Naismith and Wooden Awards as a college freshman at Duke last season.

Last summer he became the second youngest player behind LeBron James to be selected No. 1 overall in the NBA Draft.

And now the Dallas Mavericks forward has been named NBA Rookie of the Year.

The 6-foot-9 rookie beat out his former Duke teammate Kon Knueppel of the Charlotte Hornets by 26 points. It was the second smallest gap since the current voting format began in 2002-03, behind only a 15-point gap in 2021-22.

With the Mavericks having traded away Luka Doncic in 2025 and then Anthony Davis this year, Flagg has quickly become the face of the franchise.

Here are some of Flagg’s accomplishments this season per the NBA.

• Led all rookies in scoring (21.0 ppg) and ranked fourth in rebounding (6.7 rpg), second in assists (4.5 apg) and steals (1.20 spg), and fifth in blocks (0.91 bpg) in 70 games
• Joined Michael Jordan as the only rookies to lead their team in total points (1,473), rebounds (466), assists (316) and steals (84) since steals were first recorded in 1973-74
• Youngest player in NBA history to score at least 50 points in a game (51 vs. Orlando Magic on April 3)
• First rookie to have four or more games with at least 40 points since Allen Iverson in 1996-97
• Second-youngest Kia NBA Rookie of the Year winner (19 years, 112 days as of April 12, the final day of the regular season), behind only LeBron James (19 years, 106 days in 2003-04)

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

When Liverpool signed Alexander Isak as the Premier League’s most expensive player in August, few would have doubted he’d score against Crystal Palace at Anfield near season’s end.​

What has come as a surprise to almost everyone is that the Swedish striker’s April goal against the South Londoners is his first league goal of the season and, rather than challenging for the title, it serves only to aid the Reds in their bid to confirm fifth place in the table.

This stemmed from a disastrous run of injuries, essentially making Isak’s first campaign at Liverpool a write-off. Limited game time, not individual failings, explains his lack of impact.

After the match, Isak admitted he still had some way to go before returning to top form, even after his first goal.

“I’ve been battling getting back to full fitness and obviously scoring a goal is probably the best way to finding your form again. Obviously, I’m really happy,” he said.

His captain, Virgil Van Dijk, echoed the sentiment, both praising the Swedish forward and demanding more from him.

“It is important for Alex to get goals as a striker and it was a great goal,” the defender added.

“In terms of what I’ve seen of him, everyone knows and sees and experiences as teammates how outstanding he is.

“It is about getting games, confidence but obviously scoring goals as a striker – that’s the main trigger for him. I’m not worried at all about him whatsoever.

“We want more than goals from him and that’s what he can bring and he just has to keep going and keep working, keep staying fit and keep staying important for the football club because I think he will and he already is.”

He, too, acknowledged that this was not quite what Liverpool had in mind when it parted with $170 million in the summer.

“It is quite an understatement to say he’s had a tough year,” he said. “The injuries he had and the timing of it has been bad.

“But now he is fit and we all know what he can bring and he shows it in training and in games as well.”

Fellow new signing Florian Wirtz was also on the scoresheet against Palace, an occurrence that offered some glimpse of what Liverpool envisioned when they signed the two players in the summer.

“That was always the plan,” added Van Dijk

“These two particular players have been brought to the club to make an impact and it’s not been an easy season for anyone, including those two, but you see the quality they have.”

Isak and Wirtz are easy scapegoats for those blaming Liverpool’s disappointing season.

But Liverpool’s underlying problems this season do not rest on Isak’s absence or Wirtz’s impact. The real issues that have derailed the campaign lie elsewhere.

Hugo Ekitike, who led the line instead of the Swedish striker, was among the Reds’ best.

Wirtz has shown flashes of brilliance when Liverpool has played well as a team.

From the start, coach Arne Slot has struggled to find balance in the team.

Defensive vulnerabilities have plagued the Reds all season, leading to costly late collapses.

Some argue the team’s imbalance comes from spending on the wrong areas.

Reasonable questions remain whether Isak was needed after acquiring Ekitike. Perhaps signing someone to provide Luiz Diaz’s dynamism after his sale to Bayern Munich would have made more sense.

One thing is clear: next season, much will be expected of Isak. But this year’s struggles have roots that go far beyond a single player’s fitness.

Though some describe Isak as a disastrous signing, this verdict overlooks the fitness issues behind his limited impact—and mislocates the reasons for Liverpool’s struggles.

Even so, former Reds defender Jamie Carragher issued a warning for Isak when speaking to local paper the Liverpool Echo.

“[The big-spending summer] hasn’t worked,” he said.

“It might work in the future because I don’t think you can judge every signing in the first year.

“But I’ve said this before; my experience as a Liverpool player, every player who came to the club, I can’t remember one who didn’t really do much in his first season, and then was a revelation afterwards.

“Isak hasn’t got going. He obviously got the injury, but he didn’t look great to start with.”

Liverpool fans hope that next year, with a fresh start, will bring change.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

The Minnesota Timberwolves got a double dose of bad news in Game 4 of their first-round series against the Denver Nuggets.

Within the first 90 seconds of the game, starting guard Donte DiVincenzo suffered an Achilles tear when he took off to a chase a rebound after he missed a three-pointer. Late in the first half, star guard Anthony Edwards hyperextended his left knee and suffered a bone bruise that's expected to sideline him for multiple weeks, according to ESPN's Shams Charania.

With those two sidelined, Ayo Dosunmu came off the Wolves' bench to score a career-high 43 points on 13-of-17 shooting, including a perfect 5-of-5 from deep and 12-of-12 from the free-throw line. He helped stake the Wolves to a 3-1 series lead and put the Nuggets on the precipice of elimination.

Dosunmu and Bones Hyland figure to slot into the Wolves' starting lineup for the remainder of this series in place of Edwards and DiVincenzo, respectively. The timing couldn't be better for Dosunmu, who is in the final season of his three-year, $21 million contract and is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.

What Is Dosunmu Worth In Free Agency?

Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels became Public Enemy No. 1 in Denver when he told reporters that his plan was to go after all of the "bad defenders" on the Nuggets in Game 2. He immediately proceeded to name four of their five starters, sparing only Christian Braun from ignominy.

McDaniels backed up his trash talk with a snarling 20-point, 10-rebound masterpiece in Game 3. Dosunmu took the torch from him in Game 4, taking turns waltzing to the rim or bombing away from deep with impunity.

The Nuggets have now had two days to prepare for the DiVincenzo- and Edwards-less Timberwolves, so Dosunmu likely won't find the sledding to be quite as easy in Game 5 and/or the rest of the series. But if Dosunmu proves that his Game 4 eruption wasn't a fluke, teams around the league will undoubtedly take notice.

Dosunmu might not be the next Jalen Brunson in hiding, but could be the this year's version of Nickeil Alexander-Walker? After averaging 8.4 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game off the bench across his two-plus years with the Timberwolves, Alexander-Walker signed a four-year, $60.6 million contract with the Atlanta Hawks this past offseason.

That deal already looks like a screaming value.

Alexander-Walker averaged a career-high 20.8 points, 3.7 assists and 3.4 rebounds in 33.4 minutes per game for the Hawks this season en route to the NBA's Most Improved Player award. He's struggled to maintain that level of production in the playoffs against the New York Knicks, but the Hawks are still getting plenty of bang for their buck.

The Hawks acquired Alexander-Walker via a sign-and-trade, which allowed them to structure his contract uniquely. (His salary dips in 2026-27 before rising again over the ensuing two years.) But the total amount they gave him is equivalent to a four-year deal signed with the non-taxpayer mid-level exception.

Based on the current $165 million projection for the 2026-27 salary cap, the non-taxpayer MLE would start at roughly $15.05 million. If he left the Wolves and signed with another team via the non-taxpayer MLE, he'd top out at a four-year, $64.7 million deal this offseason.

Depending on how he performs throughout the rest of the playoffs, that may now be his contractual floor, not his ceiling.

Can Wolves Afford To Keep Dosunmu?

The Timberwolves acquired Dosunmu from the Chicago Bulls ahead of this year's trade deadline for Rob Dillingham, Leonard Miller and four second-round picks. After seeing what he did in Game 4—and knowing that DiVincenzo figures to miss most if not all of next season in the wake of his Achilles tear—they aren't likely to let him go in free agency this offseason without a fight.

The problem is that they already have more than $190 million in salary on their books for next season. The first apron is currently projected to be $209 million, while the second apron is projected to be $222 million.

If the Wolves sign Dosunmu to a contract worth $19 million or more, that alone would push them over the first apron. Once they round out the rest of their roster, they could be in danger of going into second-apron territory, which would result in a bevy of unpleasant roster-building restrictions.

The Wolves could look to free up some spending power by salary-dumping DiVincenzo, who's about to enter the final year of his contract. But if they have Dosunmu ticketed to replace DiVincenzo in their starting lineup, that might only further drive up his asking price.

Twenty-nine guards are earning at least $30 million this season, while an additional eight are earning between $20 and $30 million. Exactly 50 are earning more than the $14.1 million starting salary of this year's non-taxpayer MLE.

Prior to Dosunmu's Game 4 breakout, the Wolves might have been hoping that he'd fly under the radar in free agency and that they'd be able to re-sign him at a reasonable price. However, the odds of that will decrease exponentially if he musters more playoff heroics in Game 5 and beyond.

Unlike last offseason, when the Brooklyn Nets were the only team with spending power, the Nets, Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers are all projected to enter the summer with at least $45 million in cap space, according to Spotrac's Keith Smith. The Atlanta Hawks and Detroit Pistons could each have at least $25 million in cap space as well, although they'd each have to allow some key players to depart to reach that figure.

If the Lakers get outbid on Austin Reaves, could they pivot toward Dosunmu instead? With tanking reform seemingly coming ahead of the 2026-27 season, would the Nets see Dosunmu as a way to speed up their rebuild? Might the Bulls pursue a reunion with Dosunmu after getting rid of the front office that traded him at the deadline?

Other suitors could emerge as well depending on sign-and-trade machinations and how the larger league landscape plays out this offseason. Either way, the Wolves could now be in a tough spot.

They'll need to rely on Dosunmu to keep them afloat until Edwards returns, but every strong performance could prove increasingly costly for them in free agency.

Unless otherwise noted, all stats via NBA.com, PBPStats, Cleaning the Glass or Basketball Reference. All salary information via Spotrac and salary-cap information via RealGM. All odds via FanDuel Sportsbook.

Follow Bryan on Bluesky.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

AEW’s NFL Lucha Masks | Key Points

• AEW’s new NFL Lucha masks are getting poor reviews after debuting this past Thursday during the NFL Draft.
• Fans online are criticizing the masks for their generic and cheap design despite a steep price tag of $60.
• Pro wrestling consumption is as expensive as ever with the top two national wrestling companies price-gauging fans through high-priced merchandise, increased ticket prices and premium streaming services.

AEW’s new NFL masks are expensive in price, but early reviews suggest they’re cheap in presentation.

AEW recently announced a licensing agreement with the NFL, resulting in 32 officially licensed Lucha masks. The masks debuted this past Thursday to coincide with the 2026 NFL Draft. AEW president and CEO Tony Khan is also the chief football strategy officer with the Jacksonville Jaguars, owned by his father Shad Khan.

“I’ve always wanted the NFL and AEW to work together,” said Tony during a recent interview with Compas on the Beat. “These will be available for all 32 NFL teams. Starting the first night of the NFL draft, we will have these masks available on ShopAEW.com for all 32 teams.”

Despite the $60 price tag, many fans are already criticizing AEW for the plain, generic and—ironically—cheap mask design.

Top AEW sicko account—and possible Tony Khan burner—Drainmaker posted an announcement of the new masks directing fans to “BUY NOW ON SHOPAEW [sic.]”

“Damn I was excited but those look cheap as hell,” read the top comment. Similar backlash can be found across Twitter both in and out of comment sections from pro-AEW accounts.

“The bodega down the street from me got the same ones for 10$,” read the top comment in response to another pro-AEW account promoting the masks. Other comments included “Who is the market for these?" and “These look hella cheap.” Things didn’t get much better on AEW’s official X account, which became a lolcow communion for fans critical of AEW’s underwhelming new masks.

The top comment under AEW’s Lucha mask promotional video came from AEW star Anthony Bowens, who was apparently featured in the commercial under a 49ers mask. “The guy in the Niners mask is jacked AF, who is he?” Bowens joked. The next comment with the most likes read “That has to be the most laziest and ugliest masks I ever seen [sic.]” Ensuing comments referred to the masks as “goofy” and “generic.”

“AEW can sell the cheapest looking NFL masks, yet they couldn’t sell Penta and Rex Fenix masks...business man of the year,” read one viral comment.

Criticism of AEW’s masks is warranted due to its poor design and a very high price point, especially considering AEW’s attempts to position itself as a cheaper, more family friendly alternative to WWE. In reality, AEW is currently selling low-effort masks which are inferior to similar items available at a street vendor who sells them for less than half AEW’s price. AEW’s new masks look like they were designed by somebody outside of Lucha Libre culture only for Tony Khan to approve the first draft.

Fans React To AEW NFL Lucha Masks (NSFW Language)

The memeable masks debuted at or near the price of a full tank of gas in 2026. This during a time period where wrestling fans are being priced out more than ever by corporate wrestling. The polarizing WWE-TKO era gets the most flack for corporatizing the wrestling business—partly due to WWE’s own stars pushing this narrative on their own TV. But AEW is far from innocent in the time-honored tradition of promoters shaking down their superfans.

AEW recently announced a new service called MyAEW. The premium subscription service offers access to classic content and pay-per-views costs upwards of $119.99 annually. When packaged with its new overpriced street masks, AEW (which is owned by billionaires) is nothing more than a synonym for TKO.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

The 2026 NFL Draft is complete. There were winners and losers. Heisman finalist Diego Pavia became the first finalist since 2014 who was not drafted. Quarterback Ty Simpson vaulted his consensus status and was drafted 13th by the Los Angeles Rams.

Some teams drafted with a win-now mentality, while other teams were building a foundation for 2027 and beyond. But how did the teams within their respective divisions fare? Let’s begin by looking at the runner-ups AFC.

AFC East

Home of the runner-up to the Super Bowl Champions, the AFC East has two teams in rebuild and two teams that are Super Bowl or bust for the upcoming season.

New York Jets: Pre-Draft Needs: QB, WR, EDGE, CB, LB

The Jets finished the draft with eight total picks, three of which were first-round picks. And while the landing spots did not do much for fantasy football. The picks will provide an upgrade to a team that was 31st in sacks (26), 32nd in interceptions (0), 29th in total points scored per game (17.6), and whose tight ends had the second-fewest receiving yards (593) and tied for the fewest touchdown catches (2).

R1 P2, Edge, David Bailey, Texas Tech

R1 P16, TE, Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon (pick acquired from Sauce Gardner trade with Indianapolis)

R1 P30, WR, Omar Cooper, Jr, IU

R2 P50, CB, D’Angelo Ponds, IU

R4 P103, DT, Darrell Jackson Jr., FSU

R4 P110, QB, Cade Klubnik, Clemson

R6 P188, G, Anez Cooper, UMiami

R7 P228, S, VJ Payne, Kansas State

GRADE A

New England Patriots: Pre-Draft Needs: EDGE, OL, LB, WR, TE, Safety

The Patriots finish the draft with nine total picks. The Super Bowl runner-ups needed help on the offensive line, a replacement for Stefon Diggs, and help to correct their 31.1% pressure rate, which was 21st in the league last season.

R1 P28, OT, Caleb Lomu, Utah

R2 P55, Edge, Gabe Jacas, Illinois

R3 P95, TE, Eli Raridon, Notre Dame

R5 P171, DB, Karon Prunty, Wake Forest

R6 P196, OT, Dametrious Crownover, Texas A& M

R6 P212, LB, Namdi Oloiazor, TCU

R7 P234, QB, Behren Morton, Texas Tech

R7 P245, RB, Jam Miller, Alabama

R7 P247, LB, Quintayvious Hutchins, Boston College

GRADE B

Buffalo Bills: Pre-Draft Needs: LB, WR, EDGE, CB

The Bills, after trading back three times, finished the draft with 10 picks, although none in the first round. The Bills are in a Super Bowl or Bust season. Their free agent acquisition of wide receiver D.J. Moore from the Chicago Bears was a start, but they still entered the receiver-heavy draft needing a bit more help for 30-year-old quarterback Josh Allen.

R2 P35, Edge, T.J. Parker, Clemson

R2 P62, CB, Davison Igbinosun, OSU

R4 P102, OT, Jude Bowry, Boston College

R4 P125, WR, Skylar Bell, UConn

R5 P167, S, Jason Kilgore, South Carolina

R5 P181, DT, Zane Durant, PSU

R7 P220, CB, Toriano Pride Jr., Missouri

R7 P239, P, Tommy Doman, Florida

R7 P241, G, Ar’Maj Reed-Adams, Texas A&M

GRADE B-

Miami Dolphins: Pre-Draft Needs: WR, EDGE, CB, RT, Safety (EVERYTHING)

The Dolphins entered the draft with 13 picks, including two in the first round. After releasing receiver Tyreek Hill and trading receiver Jaylen Waddle, they needed receiver help for newly signed quarterback Malik Willis. Their defense finished last season 27th in rushing yards allowed per game (132.4), 16th in sacks (39), and 23rd in interceptions (9), making secondary and defensive line help also a need.

R1 P12, OT, Kadyn Proctor, Alabama

R1 P27, CB, Chris Johnson, San Diego State

R2 P43, LB, Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech

R3 P75, WR, Caleb Doublas, Texas Tech

R3 P87, TE, Will Kacmarek, OSU

R4 P130, Edge, Trey Moore, Texas

R4 P138, S, Kyle Louis, Pitt

R5 P158, S, Michael Toaffe, Texas

R5 P177, WR, Kevin Coleman Jr., Missouri

R5 P180, TE, Seydou Traore, Mississippi State

R6 P200, G, D.J. Campbell, Texas

R7 P233, Edge, Max Llewellyn, Iowa

GRADE C

AFC EAST

The Jets may have propelled themselves ahead of Miami, and the Patriots look to maintain the status quo. The draft in the AFC East was about two teams rebuilding, looking towards the future,e one team trying to maintain 2025 momentum, and one team desperately trying to get over the playoff hump. Look for the Jets to be the surprise in the East, which could just mean surpassing expectations.

AFC West

The AFC West looks to be the fight of the 2026 season. The Kansas City Chiefs are looking to regain dominance, the Denver Broncos are looking to retain the title, and the Las Vegas Raiders are looking to shock the world. Will the Los Angeles Chargers be the team outside looking in?

Las Vegas Raiders: Pre-Draft Needs: QB, DT, OL, WR, CB

The Raiders were abysmal in every way last season. From their 5.0 yards per dropback (28th), to their last place in the NFL in points per game (14.2), yards per game (247), and plays per game (55.8). Their defense allowed 25.8 points per game (25th) while collecting only eight interceptions (27th) and 37 sacks (19th). So, the Raiders entered the draft with 10 total picks and the first pick of the draft.

Bold prediction: Maxx Crosby will be Defensive Player of the Year 2026.

R1 P1, QB, Fernando Mendoza, IU

R2 P38, S, Treydon Stukes, Arizona

R3 P67, Edge, Keyron Crawford, Auburn

R3 P91, C Trey Zuhn, Texas A&M

R4 P101, CB, Jermod McCoy, Tennessee

R4 P122, RB, Mike Washington, Arkansas

R5 P150, S, Dalton Johnson, Arizona

R5 P175, CB, Hezekiah Masses, California

R6 P195, WR, Malik Benson, Oregon

R7 P229, DT Brandon Cleveland, NC State

GRADE A-

Los Angeles Chargers: Pre-Draft Needs: Guard, Edge, Safety, LB, DT

The main goal for the Chargers is to keep quarterback Justin Herbert safe. Last season, he was sacked 54 times. The offensive line (which was without its two premier offensive linemen for most of the season) had a league low 53.9% pass block win rate. Depth at the offensive line position would be nice. The Chargers went into the draft with eight picks.

R1 P22, Edge, Akheem Mesidor, University of Miami

R2 P63, C, Jake Slaughter, Florida

R4 P105, WR, Brenen Thompson, Mississippi State

R4 P131, S, Genesis Smith, Arizona

R5 P145, DT, Nick Barrett, South Carolina

R6 P202, G, Logan Taylor, Boston College

R6 P206, G, Alex Harkey, Oregon

GRADE B-

Denver Broncos: Pre-Draft Needs: OL, LB, CB

The Jaylen Waddle trade with the Miami Dolphins was essentially the Broncos ' first-round selection. After that, replacing defensive end John Franklin-Myers and finding a reliable running back to add to the loaded running back room were necessities. With seven picks and the first one coming in the third round, it was quality over name recognition.

R3 P66 DT, Tyler Onyedim, Texas A&M

R4 P108 RB, Jonah Coleman, Washington

R4 P111, OT, Kage Casey, Boise State

R5 P153, TE, Justin Joly, NC State

R7 P246, S, Miles Scott, Illinois

R7 P256, TE, Dallen Bentley, Utah

R7 P257, LB, Red Murdock, Buffalo

GRADE C

Kansas City Chiefs: Pre-Draft Needs: Edge, CB, WR, DT, TE, OL

The Chiefs found themselves in unfamiliar territory, picking in the top-10 with two picks in the first round, with their quarterback rehabbing from a knee injury, offensive weaponry questions, and their secondary depleted by free agency losses. They finished with seven picks in the draft.

R1 P6, CB, Mansoor Delane, LSU

R1 P29, DT, Peter Woods, Clemson

R2 P40, Edge, R Mason Thomas, Oklahoma

R4 P109, S, Jadon Canady, Oregon

R5 P161, RB, Emmett Johnson, Nebraska

R5 P176, WR, Cyrus Allen, Cincinnati

R7 P249, QB, Garrett Nussmeier, LSU

GRADE C-

AFC SOUTH

The AFC South is littered with teams that were “full of potential” and then lost momentum at the end of the season or got spanked in the playoffs. And oh, there is Tennessee with new head coach Robert Saleh, definitely making a statement to be included in the conversation.

Tennessee Titans: Pre-Draft Needs: WR, Edge, G, C, LB

Last season, rookie quarterback Cam Ward’s receiving weapons were: team-leading receiver, tight end Chig Okonkwo with 560 yards, who is no longer there; veteran receiver Calvin Ridley, who played in only seven games and had 17 receptions; and Day 3 rookie receivers Elic Ayomanor (515 yards) and Chimere Dike (423 yards).

R1 P4, WR, Carnell Tate, OSU

R1 P31, Edge, Keldric Faulk, Auburn

R2 P60, LB, Anthony Hill Jr., Texas

R5 P142, G, Fernando Carmona, Arkansas

R5 P165, RB, Nicholas Singleton, PSU

R6 P184, DT, Jakie Marshall, Baylor

R6 P194, C, Pat Coogan, IU

R7 P225, TE, Jaren Kanek, Oklahoma

GRADE B

Indianapolis Colts: Pre-Draft Needs: Edge, WR, LB, Safety, OL

The Colts will enter the 2026 with questions: a quarterback depth chart that shows the first two quarterbacks injured, who will replace Michael Pittman, and how they will fix an offensive line that was 30th in pass rush win rate at 29.1%. They had no pick in the first round due to the Sauce Gardner trade with the Jets, leaving them with eight picks, the majority coming in Day 3.

R2 P53, LB, CJ Allen, Georgia

R3 P78, S, A.J. Haulay, LSU

R4 P113, G, Jalen Farmer, UK

R4 P135, LB, Bryce Boettcher, Oregon

R5 P156, Edge, George Gumbs Jr., Florida

R6 P214, Edge, Caden Curry, OSU

R7 P237, RB, Seth McGowan, UK

R7 P254, WR, Deion Burks, Oklahoma

GRADE B-

Houston Texans: Pre-Draft Needs: OL, DT, LB

While the offensive line was revamped in free agency, and the Texans acquired running back David Montgomery, adding depth with their eight picks could have been a priority.

R1 P26, G, Keylon Rutledge, Georgia Tech

R2 P36, DT, Kayden McDonald, OSU

R2 P59, TE, Marlin Klein, Michigan

R4 P106, G Febechi Nwaiwu, Oklahoma

R4 P123, LB, Wade Woodaz, Clemson

R5 P141, S, Kamari Ramsey, USC

R6 P204, WR, Lewis Bond, Boston College

R7 P243, LB, Alden Fisher, IU

GRADE C

Jacksonville Jaguars: Pre-Draft Needs: LB, DT, RB, Safety

The Jaguars did not have a pick in the first round due to moving up to acquire Travis Hunter in the 2025 NFL Draft. They did have 11 picks to replace linebacker Devin Lloyd and running back Travis Etienne Jr.

R2 P56, TE, Nate Boekircher, Texas A&M

R3 P81, DT, Albert Regis, Texas A&M

R3 P88, G, Emmanuel Pregnon, Oregon

R3 P100, CB, Jalen Huskey, Maryland

R4 P119, Edge, Wesley Williams, Duke

R5 P164, TE, Tanner Koziol, Houston

R6 P191, WR, Josh Cameron, Baylor

R6 P203, WR, OJ Williams, Stanford

R7 P233, Edge, Zach Durfee, Washington

R7 P240, LB, Parker Hughes, Middle Tennessee

AFC North

The AFC North has three new head coaches. Two perennial playoff teams stuck in a playoff loop, quarterbacks Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson, one abysmally poor defense, two defenses that are meh, and the Cleveland Browns.

Cleveland Browns: Pre-Draft Needs: LT, WR, DT, Safety, G, CB

The Browns played the third-most offensive line positions last season. They had 14 different offensive line combinations in at least 10 snaps. They also rotated two rookie quarterbacks, and their best receiver was rookie tight end Harold Fanin Jr. Their receivers were the worst in the NFL in receptions (117), yards (1467) and touchdowns (4).

They had 10 picks including two in the first round.

R1 P9, OT, Spencer Fano, Utah

R1 P24, WR, KC Concepcion, Texas A&M

R2 P39, WR, Denzel Boston, Washington

R3 P86, OT, Austin Barber, Florida

R5 P146, C, Parker Brailsford, Alabama

R5 P149, LB, Justin Jefferson, Alabama

R5 P170, TE, Joe Royer, Cincinnati

R6 P182, QB, Taylen Green, Arkansas

R7 P248, TE, Carsen Ryan, BYU

GRADE A

Baltimore Ravens: Pre-Draft Needs: G,C, TE,WR, Edge, CB, DT

The Ravens’ defense finished 28th in pass rush win rate (29.9%) and in sacks (30). Their star quarterback was sacked 36 times in 13 games and they lost star center Tyler Linderbaum in free agency. They finished the draft with 11 picks.

R1 P14, G, Olaivavega Ioane, PSU

R2 P45, Edge, Zion Young, Missouri

R3 P80, WR, Ja’Kobi Lane, USC

R4 P115, WR, Elijah Sarratt, IU

R4 P133, TE, Matthew Hibner, SMU

R5 P162, CB, Chandler Rivers, Duke

R5 P173, TE, Josh Cuevas, Alabama

R5 P174, RB, Adam Randall, Clemson

R6 P211, P, Ryan Eckley, Michigan State

R7 P250, DT, Rayshaun Benny, Michigan

R7 P253, G, Evan Bernsten, Northwestern

GRADE A-

Cincinnati Bengals: Pre-Draft Needs: DB, Slot Receiver, OL

The Bengals’ defense gave up a league high 6.2 yards per play and were 30th in points allowed per game (28.9). They did not have a first round pick due to the trade for Dexter Lawrence, which gave them seven total picks in the draft.

R2 P41, Edge, Cashius Howell, Texas A&M

R3 P72, CB, Tacario Davis, Washington

R4 P128, C, Connor Lew, Auburn

R4 P140, WR, Colbie Young, Georgia

R6 P189, C, Brian Parker, Duke

R7 P221, TE, Jack Endries, Texas

R7 P226, DT, Landon Robinson, Navy

GRADE B

Pittsburgh Steelers: Pre-Draft Needs: QB, G, Slot Receiver, CB, Safety

Another year another season the Steelers are held captive without a franchise quarterback waiting for the decision of 42-year old Aaron Rodgers. They have 10 picks in the draft.

R1 P21, OT, Max Iheanachor, ASU

R2 P47, WR, Germie Bernard, Alabama

R3 P76, QB, Drew Allar, PSU

R3 P85, CB, Daylen Everette, Georgia

R4 P121, WR, Kaden Wetjen, Iowa

R5 P169, TE, Riley Nowakowski, IU

R6 P210, DT, Gabriel Rubio, Notre Dame

R7 P224, S, Robert Spears-Jennings Oklahoma

R7 P230, RB, Eli Heidenreich, Navy

GRADE B-

AFC Draft Grades

Once again the difference between fantasy and reality rears its pretty lil head. We are trepeditious regarding the weapons the Browns acquired for fantasy football purposes. However, there is little doubt that they should help the team be respectable in the AFC North. While the Jets made a swing for the fences in the AFC East, the consensus is it may have them jump the Dolphins but the Patriots and Bills still reign supreme. The AFC West promises to be a shoot-out with the Raiders coming out of the draft and free agency a-blazing. And the AFC South is anybodies guess as the Jaguars draft was quizzical and the Texans’ best pick up was a defensive tackle.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

At 6:13 Sunday night, Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid walked on the Xfinity Mobile Arena court, stopped by the scorer’s table to put rosin blend powder on his hands, performed the sign of the cross and raised both pointer fingers to the sky. Embiid, who hadn’t played since undergoing an emergency appendectomy on April 9, then went through an 11-minute workout. Five minutes later, the 76ers upgraded Embiid from questionable to available.

Despite Embiid’s return, the 76ers were no match for the Boston Celtics, losing 128-96 on their home floor to fall behind three games to one in the Eastern Conference first round series. It was the second-worst home loss in 76ers’ playoff history, only trailing a 36-point defeat against the Milwaukee Bucks in 1970.

Embiid led the 76ers with 26 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists in just over 34 minutes, but he struggled on defense, as did his teammates. The Celtics shot 24 of 53 on 3-pointers, setting a franchise-record for most 3’s in a playoff game and falling one shy of the NBA record held by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016 and Milwaukee Bucks in 2023. Ten Boston players had at least one 3 on Sunday.

Boston scored 72 points in the second half on 22 of 40 field goals, including 13 of 25 on 3’s, and 15 of 17 free throws. The Celtics also held a 51-30 rebounding advantage, while the 76ers only made 41.2 % of their shots, including 9 of 30 on 3’s.

The blowout was reminiscent of Game 1 when the Celtics won, 123-91, in Boston and made 50% of their field goals, including 16 of 44 3’s. And it was a surprising and confounding effort after the 76ers played well in a 111-97 victory in Game 2 and a 108-100 loss in Game 3 during which Philadelphia was in it until the final minute.

After Sunday’s game, 76ers coach Nick Nurse interrupted a reporter who asked about the team’s defense, calling it “very, very bad” before trying to explain what went wrong.

“I’m not so sure why,” Nurse said. “It just didn’t seem like any matchup could guard anybody one on one tonight…We had them pushed out and bottled up and physical and really off kind of rhythm (in Games 2 and 3), and there was none of that tonight.”

He added: “I don’t know why we couldn't block out better or rebound better or move better on defense or whatever. We just seemed a half-step behind energy-wise. Whatever it was, we were a half-step behind on everything. Even the shots, none of them were going in.”

Embiid, who had wrapping around his midsection, scored Philadelphia’s first eight points, but he was inconsistent at times, an understandable situation considering he was coming off surgery and just started workouts a few days ago. During a more than 17-minute stretch from the start of the second quarter through almost midway through the third quarter, Embiid went 0 of 7 from the field. He then scored 10 points in the final 6:51 of the third quarter, but the 76ers still trailed, 95-74, as the Celtics scored 39 points in the third. Embiid made 9 of his 21 shots but missed five of his six 3-pointers.

“I thought he certainly played a lot better offensively in the second half,” Nurse said. “I’ve got to look at the tape a little bit more to see the other end, but the other end wasn’t very good tonight, which is really disappointing. Not just him, I’m just talking about everybody. I thought he had a lot of good looks. A lot of them went in and out, and that certainly wasn't helping our offense.”

Payton Pritchard led the Celtics with 32 points off the bench, including 18 in the first half when he made 7 of 12 field goals, including 4 of 6 on 3’s. It was Pritchard’s career playoff-high, topping the 23 points he scored against the New York Knicks in Game 3 of their second round series last May. And it was two points shy of Boston’s record for most points scored by a reserve in a playoff game, set by Kevin McHale in May 1991 in an overtime loss to the Detroit Pistons that ended the Celtics’ season.

Jayson Tatum added 30 points for the Celtics, including 25 in the second half, while Jaylen Brown had 20, all in the final three quarters. Meanwhile, the 76ers couldn’t get much going on offense with Embiid back in the lineup. Rookie VJ Edgecombe continued his struggles and had just 6 points on 2 of 9 shooting, while fellow starter Kelly Oubre Jr. had two points and missed all six of his shots. Edgecombe had 30 points in the Game 2 victory, but he has made just 13 of his 42 field goals in the other three games, including going 0 for 16 on 3’s.

Tyrese Maxey, who led the 76ers and ranked fifth in the league in scoring in the regular season with 28.3 points per game, had 22 points, but he only had three field goals in the first half. At halftime, teammate Paul George (16 points) told Maxey to get more involved in the offense, which he did in the second half, but it was too late as the Celtics were already well on their way to victory.

“That can’t happen,” Maxey said of shooting three times in the first half. “That’s on me. That absolutely can’t happen. That’s unacceptable by me. I was playing within the flow of the game. It kind of happened that way. It wasn’t Nick (Nurse)…We can’t win basketball games with that happening.”

With Game 5 Tuesday night in Boston, the 76ers now face a difficult task. Of the 298 teams that have trailed three games to one in an NBA best-of-seven playoff series, only 13 (4.4%) have won the series. The 2020 Denver Nuggets were the last team to achieve that feat, coming back from deficits in the Western Conference first round and semifinals. The 76ers have never won a series after losing three of the first four games in a series.

Several times in the final minutes Sunday night as thousands of Philadelphia fans left early, the Celtics fans stayed around and chanted “We Want Boston!,” mocking the 76ers supporters who screamed the same mantra after Philadelphia defeated the Orlando Magic in the play-in game earlier this month. It was another lowlight for a 76ers franchise that hasn’t defeated the Celtics in the playoffs since 1982 and hasn’t made the Eastern Conference finals in 25 years. Still, Nurse insisted all hope was not lost.

“Listen, our kind of MO all year is to have a lot of things thrown at us and pick ourselves up and fight back,” Nurse said. “We just have to do it again.”

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

WWE LFG Season 3 | Key Points

• WWE LFG Season 3 premieres Sunday, April 26, 2026 with returning head coaches Booker T and Bubba Ray alongside newcomers Nattie and Kevin Owens.
• WWE LFG is a competitive wrestling reality show that crowns aspiring male and female talent with a WWE contract. Season 3 premieres on A&E at 10:00 pm EST/7:00 pm PST.

Bubba Ray Dudley doesn’t mess around. He told me so using more TV-MA language, but it’s always been clear that the WWE Hall of Famer has the hard-nosed, no-nonsense bona fides required to develop and foster the eclectic group of wrestling stars of tomorrow.

Bubba Ray returns to television for his third season as a coach on WWE LFG Season 3. Bubba Ray joins fellow veteran coach Booker T as well as new coaches—and current WWE Superstars—Nattie and Kevin Owens. This will be the first season of WWE LFG to feature active WWE Superstars as head coaches, and for Bubba Ray, it’s a welcomed change.

“Kevin has a lot of patience,” said Bubba Ray in an exclusive interview. “Kevin does his best to explain as well as he can. [He explains] His vision, or the lesson he’s trying to get across for the day. I believe that the future greats have enjoyed working with Kevin. Whenever you can get a different perspective, it helps younger talent.”

“For two seasons, they were around The Undertaker or Mickie James or Michelle McCool. Great wrestling minds, but Kevin is actually doing it right now. He’s in the midst of his career—a very successful career I might add—so he can probably lend some information or teach the future greats some things from the ‘now’ point-of-view. 'This is what works now in WWE.’"

Much has been made about the advanced age of WWE’s current roster—mostly in bad faith—but not only was WWE’s future on full display last weekend at WrestleMania 42, WWE has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to its developmental system. From WWE LFG, to NXT, even in AAA and TNA, WWE has its fingers on the pulse of the entire business. And Bubba Ray has the all-important task of helping to shape its future.

“I’ve never looked at the job as easy or hard," said Bubba Ray. “I go in there with one thing in mind and that’s to instill the best knowledge I possibly can into the future greats. As someone who has owned his own professional wrestling school for years—the Team 3D Academy—I take the very same approach. ‘Here’s what it takes; here’s ow to get over; here’s what to do.’”

"I very much enjoyed Season 3 because it’s more of a hard-nose, direct approach. I can compare it to the HBO show Hard Knocks whereeverybody has come together for the common goal of putting the best team on the field and getting each future great ready for getting a phone call in a day that says ‘you’re moving up and moving on,’ or getting a phone call saying ‘you’re going home.’"

Bully Ray On Celebrities In WWE

WrestleMania 42 came and went with a cavalcade of celebrities on display—a staple of WrestleMania. But in the context of WWE’s relationship with TKO, celebrity involvement and corporate advertising has been criticized by longtime wrestling fans, including Ariel Helwani and Andrew Yang.

WWE’s top stars like Cody Rhodes and CM Punk have made in-character comments about TKO’s apparent meddling. But the celebrities involved seem to have simply caught strays amid the corporatization of WWE, which is a story as old as time in the wrestling business. Jelly Roll, Pat McAfee, Logan Paul and IShowSpeed all have a real-life affinity for pro wrestling. The same goes for Lil Yachty, who recently announced he’s here to stay before getting his flowers from Paul Heyman.

Bully Ray Dudley is also in the camp of welcoming celebrities in this business. He’s even willing to train them as long as they’re here for the right reasons.

“If you have respect for our industry, and you truly want to get involved and do this for all the right reasons, I would have no problem training somebody or working with somebody who wanted to invest real time in pro wrestling," said Bubba Ray.

“I’ve never had a problem with celebrities being involved in WrestleMania or wrestling in general. WrestleMania I was one of the biggest celebrity spectacles of all time, Lawrence Taylor and Bam Bam Bigelow. I’m sure I’ve done things with celebrities that I’ve forgotten about and this year it’s no different.”

"I understand why IShowSpeed is a part of this, I understand why Logan Paul is a apart of this, between both of them it’s about 50 million Instagram followers. It’s about eyes. It’s going beyond the wrestling scope of things and taking people who might not have ever been exposed to the world of WWE an bringing them in."

WWE LFG Season 3 airs Sunday, April 26, 2026 at 10:00 pm EST.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

The Minnesota Timberwolves won Game 4 of their series with the Denver Nuggets, 112-96 Saturday night, but suffered some critical injuries during the win.

Star guard Anthony Edwards exited the game with a left knee injury, while shooting guard Donte DiVincenzo’s season is over after suffering a torn right Achilles, per ESPN.

Edwards was helped to the locker room after an apparent left knee injury with 2:43 left in the second quarter. He was injured landing after a contested layup, had to be helped to the locker room, and was immediately ruled out for the remainder of the game.

“Losing those two guys is really tough, tough emotionally for our guys,” head coach Chris Finch told reporters, per The Associated Press.

Dr. Evan Jeffries, who identifies himself as a Doctor of Physical Therapy and NBA & NFL Injury Insider, wrote of the injury on X/Twitter that the “worst case scenario” for Edwards is an ACL tear, while the “best case scenario” is a “bone bruise/joint capsule injury.”

Donte DiVincenzo also suffered a torn Achilles during the win that was fueled by Ayo Dosunmu’s 43 points, including a perfect 5-of-5 from beyond the arc.

“I feel completely devastated for Donte,” Finch said after his team took a 3-1 series lead.

DiVincenzo appeared to injure his lower right leg in the game’s opening minutes when he slipped to the court as he raced to chase a ball. He immediately waved to the bench for help and put little to no weight on his right foot as he was helped to the locker room, and he eventually left the arena in a wheelchair.

Edwards came into Saturday averaging 23 points and eight rebounds in the series, as the sixth-seeded Timberwolves look to upset the third-seeded Nuggets. DiVincenzo averaged 14.3 points and made 11 of 22 three-pointers in the first three games.

“I was heartbroken,” Dosunmu said in the televised on-court postgame interview when asked about the injuries to DiVincenzo and Edwards. “This is for them. Ant, Donte, they mean so much to the organization. I’m sending them prayers. I hope for a speedy recovery. I hope they’re fine, but this game, personally, was for them.”

Said forward Julius Randle: “We you lose two guys that are big pieces to our team, but we talk about it all year. We need depth in the playoffs and we have that obviously. So we knew that we had more than enough to win.”

(The AP contributed reporting)

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

With NBA All-Star credentials and a max contract, De’Aaron Fox could have exerted his status more forcefully in his new environment.

Instead, Fox eagerly joined the San Antonio Spurs in a mid-season trade last season partly because he wanted to experience something that eluded him through eight years with the Sacramento Kings.

He craved front office stability. He valued roster depth and continuity. He hungered for a realistic shot at winning an NBA championship.

Fox may receive his wish. The Spurs earned the No. 2 seed largely because Victor Wembanyama has established himself as a two-way star in just his third season. The Spurs have a 2-1 first-round series lead over the Portland Trail Blazers because their young backcourt (Stephon Castle, Dylan Harper) elevated their play while Wembanyama remains sidelined the past two games with a concussion-related symptoms. Even with Fox no longer operating as the franchise player as he did with the Kings, the Spurs view the 29-year-old Fox as critical in bridging the team’s present potential into future excellence.

“He is the most unsung reason why this has all worked just in terms of his participation and enthusiasm to make it all work,” Spurs coach Mitch Johnson said of Fox. “We have a lot of guys that, whether they’ve been here or young guys with very high expectations for themselves. And it takes a lot of togetherness, collaboration and desire for the greater good of the group for this many young players to continue to put that at the forefront. He probably is the catalyst for that.”

That’s because Fox has mostly found a sweet spot with how to handle a potentially dueling role. He has produced enough to warrant his second All-Star appearance as a scorer (18.6 points on 48.6%) and playmaker (6.2 assists). He has still empowered the Spurs’ reigning Rookie of the Year guard (Castle) and this year’s No. 2 draft pick (Harper), even at the expense of his own play.

“I still try to affect the game, obviously. But I don’t have the ball as much as I was used to before that,” Fox said. “I think that helps continue to grow your game and also helps them grow their game. They’re going to have the ball a lot in their career. So I think us learning to play off of each other does nothing but help everybody.”

That’s because Fox, Harper and Castle have all learned how to play off and on the ball. They have figured out when to look for their shot and when to involve others. They have adjusted based off of opposing team defenses and player availability. They have varied when to play at a fast or slow pace.

Three years after winning the NBA’s Clutch Player of the Year award with a league-leading 194 points scored in the final five minutes, Fox ranked outside of the top 50 with 81.2 clutch points. In the playoffs, Fox has assumed a greater playmaking role (a team-leading 6.0 assists per game) partly out of deference to Castle (a team-leading 22.7 points per game). Fox carries a greater role as a starter than Harper, but he produced a team-leading 27 points on 9-for-12 shooting in a Game 3 win.

“He’s kind of the head of the snake and the one that controls the game, but he allows me and Steph to be us,” Harper said of Fox. “He’s done a great job with that. He also knows how to get one of us involved. I think his leadership, how he passes the ball and how he controls and slows the game has been really beneficial for us.”

Perhaps Spurs fans expected Fox to have a bigger role both throughout the regular season and during Wembanyama’s recent absence. After all, the Spurs signed Fox last summer to a four-year, $229 million contract extension through the 2029-30 season. In the playoffs, Fox has averaged a respectable 17.6 points and 6.0 assists per game. But he has shot only a combined 42.6% from the field and 28.6% from deep.

Yet, Fox has avoided pulling rank during Wembanyama’s absence and through most of the regular season.

“We have so many guys in this room that can put the ball in the basket,” Fox said. “For us, it’s about what shot we take. It’s not about the shot that I take or the shot that Steph takes or what Vic takes, or whatever it may be. We’re trying to get the best shot for us.”

No wonder the 20-year-old Harper has affectionally referred to the 28-year-old Fox as “Unc.” Fox didn’t greet Castle and Harper with unsolicited advice and references to his résumé. Instead, Fox greeted them with encouragement.

“He told me from day one to be myself and be aggressive and if I see an opportunity, to go get it,” Harper said. “If you’re going to mess up, make sure that you do it confidently.”

Both Castle and Harper learned how to do that on their own while Fox missed the first eight NBA games with a strained right hamstring. With exception to two other games to heal his adductor and lower back, Fox otherwise remained valuable. He cracked double figures in 65 out of 72 games. During that stretch, Fox scored at least 30 points in three games and at least 20 in 31 others. That did not compromise Fox’s playmaking role, though. He led the Spurs in assists (6.2) and recorded at least 10 assists in eight games.

“They’re both so talented,” Fox said of Castle and Harper. “A lot of what they do is just off instincts. So for me, it’s about giving them the keys to the test.”

Fox said those keys have just entailed offering “tidbits here or there.” Before the playoffs started, Fox stressed the importance in prioritizing every possession. He forewarned that the game will become more physical and that referees won’t call as many fouls. He outlined the need to rely on leg strength and balance to enable strong shooting performances through fatigue. Most importantly, Fox hasn’t shied away from elevating his game so long as it doesn’t disrupt theirs.

“I can’t say enough,” Johnson said of Fox. “Maybe he’s done it all.”

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

The Los Angeles Dodgers have hit a bit of a rough patch recently, dropping two consecutive series to division rivals in the Colorado Rockies and San Francisco Giants.

Now, as they look to build up some momentum with a win against the Chicago Cubs, the team has also found itself in the crosshairs of an evolving debate about preferential treatment for two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani.

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Los Angeles Dodgers At Center Of ‘Shohei Ohtani Rule’ Debate

“Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell isn’t the only person in baseball bothered by the rule that allows the Los Angeles Dodgers to carry an extra pitcher because of Shohei Ohtani’s designation as a two-way player,” The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal wrote, following some outspoken complaints about the so-called “Shohei Ohtani rule” from Counsell. “Many in the game are fine with the accommodations made for Ohtani, the best and most unique player in the sport. Some, though, are frustrated that the rule allowing Ohtani’s team to carry a 14th pitcher extends his already outsized impact. Still, others view his ability to remain in the lineup as a DH once he is done pitching as an inequity all its own.”

The Dodgers have captured consecutive World Series championships since signing Ohtani, who has been everything the team could have hoped for in the batter’s box, on the mound and as a draw for lucrative advertising deals. But as the team pursues a third-straight title, critics of the special treatment he is afforded by the rule book are growing louder.

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Former Los Angeles Dodgers All-Star Proposes Change To Shohei Ohtani Advantage

Most recently, two-time Dodgers All-Star Justin Turner called for a change to the special rule.

“The solution is to get rid of the 13 x 13 rule for everyone,” Turner posted on X, formerly Twitter, in response to a question about the rule posed by Dodgers Talk’s David Vassegh. “Let the teams structure their roster however they see best for them. It’s not about what the Dodgers get to do. It’s what the other 29 teams don’t get to do.”

Turner was referring to the standing MLB rule that allows teams to have a maximum of 13 pitchers in addition to 13 position players on their 26-man big-league rosters. Because Ohtani pitches and serves as the designated hitter, the Dodgers can, in a sense, carry a fourteenth pitcher on their roster because Ohtani is counted as one of the 13 position players that they are allowed.

If MLB were to eliminate the 13-pitcher maximum for all teams, that advantage would be lessened, which might satisfy the special rule’s critics. But it would also reduce the value Ohtani is bringing to the Dodgers, the team where Turner spent nine seasons.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

Fernando Mendoza going 1st overall was expected, but it’s now official. Now that Mendoza is with the Las Vegas Raiders, we’ll be breaking down his 2026 fantasy football outlook.

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The Raiders have been searching for a franchise quarterback, and they may have just found one. Mendoza helped lead Indiana to a national championship, threw for 3,535 yards, and won the Heisman Trophy last year.

Despite all of these impressive accomplishments, it doesn’t necessarily mean that Mendoza is going to be a star in 2026 fantasy football.

Fernando Mendoza Landing Spot: Las Vegas Raiders

As you would expect, the Raiders aren’t a great landing spot, since there's a reason they had the first overall pick. That said, they went out and made some big moves in NFL free agency.

One notable signing that the Raiders made was Tyler Linderbaum. Being able to work with Linderbaum, who has made the Pro Bowl in three of his first four NFL seasons, should be great for Mendoza.

The Raiders also signed Jalen Nailor, who could be a solid depth option. Nailor has never been dominant, but he’s had over 400 yards in each of the last two seasons. Keep in mind that Nailor never received a ton of volume, failing to cross 55 targets in either season.

As for players who were on the team last year, Ashton Jeanty is a good option to have out of the backfield, and he’ll take some pressure off Mendoza. As for the receivers, Brock Bowers is the top weapon for this team. Outside of Bowers, though, there’s not another elite receiver.

That said, there’s one more factor to take into account. Mendoza may not even start in 2026. The Raiders brought in Kirk Cousins, who’s set to make $20 million dollars in guaranteed money this season.

While this doesn’t have a long-term impact on Mendoza, this is a massive deal for his 2026 outlook.

Fernando Mendoza 2026 Fantasy Football Projection

With Mendoza being the number one overall pick, my expectation is that he’s going to start at some point in the 2026 season. Cousins hasn’t been great, throwing for 1,721 yards, 10 touchdowns, and five interceptions in 2025.

At the same time, it would also shock me if Mendoza didn’t play close to half of the season. I’m just not sure the Raiders would invest that kind of money into Cousins if the goal wasn’t for him to allow Mendoza to sit for a significant amount of time.

With that being said, this doesn’t sound great for Mendoza, at least for fantasy football. Fantasy managers would most likely drafting a quarterback who will be sitting on your bench for a significant part of the year, preventing you from making certain waiver wire moves.

Not only that, but fantasy football heavily relies on the rushing upside of a quarterback. Mendoza can move, but he doesn’t offer elite rushing upside.

In 2025, Mendoza had 276 rushing yards and seven rushing touchdowns. It also needs to be noted that sacks count as negative rushing yards in college.

While it’s not bad, it doesn’t make up for the less than ideal situation he’ll be stepping into next year.

With that in mind, Mendoza is not a quarterback I’m going to be targeting in 2026 fantasy football.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

One of USA Gymnastics’ 'Golden Girls’ is returning to the elite gymnastics stage. Jade Carey announced her intent to return to competition in a social media post, shared Saturday evening.

Carey is a three-time Olympic medalist, most recently helping Team USA to Olympic gold in Paris, where she also won an individual bronze medal on the vault. At the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, Carey won a surprise gold medal on the floor exercise.

“Gymnastics has always been at the center of my life, and I’ve been doing a lot of reflecting," the 25-year-old said, reading aloud to her fans.

“Gymnastics has taught me so many lessons about growth, resilience and passion. The journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been unforgettable. I wouldn’t be able to do this without the love and support from you all. So thank you," she continued.

"With that being said, I still have more to give, and I'm not done yet.”

Carey concluded her storied NCAA gymnastics career with the Oregon State Beavers in 2025 and has since served as the Student Assistant Coach for the program. While tending to her coaching duties, the Olympian regularly posted gym training videos, sparking significant speculation from fans.

Saturday’s announcement validated months of online speculation.

Jade Carey’s Impact

Carey’s impact on the U.S. National team could be significant. The American team struggled at the most recent world championships, producing the lowest medal count since 2001.

Carey owns seven world championship medals, including three gold.

With the 2026 World Championships six months away in Rotterdam, Carey’s abilities and veteran experience could be integral to the American medal hopes in the all-important team final. She could also vie for more individual accolades.

Though Carey will turn 26 in May, age is no longer more than a number in women’s gymnastics. Simone Biles was 27 when she won four medals in the Paris Olympics, and Brazilian gymnastics star Rebeca Andrade was 25.

In Paris, Biles became the oldest American to win an Olympic medal in gymnastics in 76 years. If Carey could do the same in Los Angeles, she would eclipse the record set by her longtime teammate and close friend.

The Los Angeles Olympics are over two years away, but Carey looks up to the task. Could her two-time Olympic teammate, Jordan Chiles, join her in the journey to Los Angeles? Time will tell.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

FC Barcelona did something on Saturday that the men’s first team hadn’t managed since September 2019.

That was beating Getafe 2-0 in the Coliseum, i.e. one of Barca’s least preferred venues known for tight 1-1 draws and even defeats.

It’d been an age since the Blaugrana had even scored more than one goal in the southern reaches of Madrid’s vast urban sprawl.

So when Fermin Lopez latched onto a ridiculous Pedri through ball after Pau Cubarsi won it in the centre of the park on the typically high defensive line, and put Barca 1-0 ahead, Culers could be forgiven for cliched Catalan pessimism creeping in and suspecting doom might be around the corner.

That almost came had it not been for a Cubarsi goal line clearance. Around a quarter of an hour from the finish line, however, a Marcus Rashford that has fallen down the pecking order and lost the left wing berth to midfielder Fermin struck in another one-on-one.

At full time, a landmark victory brought with it confirmation of an 11 point lead in La Liga as Barca close in on a second consecutive Spanish top flight title in the Hansi Flick era.

Mission accomplished without FC Barcelona’s two best forwards

But what’s even more impressive is that this was done without Lamine - out for the rest of the season with a hamstring knock - and a Raphinha who’s set to return to the fold against Osasuna next weekend thanks to his own problems in that part of his leg.

Though continental glory continues to elude it, there can be no doubt that FC Barcelona is the king of Spain that has sealed a domestic treble last term and what looks set to be a double this one - which also contains a second straight Super Cup won at Real Madrid’s expense.

This team is young but it has character. And although the summer transfer window could do with being raided for reinforcements, Flick has exactly the right blend of La Masia youth and gritty experience to dominate for the rest of the decade.

Whether he’ll be here beyond a reported 2028 extension remains to be seen. But he’s already said that he wants to stay until delivery of the Champions League, which remains an 11-year elusive Holy Grail for Culers and FC Barcelona.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

​The sight of Eddie Howe squinting at the interviewer after another lifeless Newcastle United performance was just sad.

This is the man who, just over a year ago, was lauded as a club legend for delivering the first silverware in the living memory of a vast chunk of the fanbase.

He appears worn down by the exhausting task of guiding a talented team to elite expectations, which has taken a visible toll.

Howe’s achievements have raised expectations to unsustainable heights, trapping him in a cycle where success leads only to even harsher scrutiny.

The other reason his work is not recognised is that Newcastle United, under Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund’s ownership, is, on paper, the richest in the world.

Premier League investment rules and a lack of urgency in building a supporting structure have prevented both the assembly of a squad for sustained success and the creation of an executive framework to achieve it.

Much, therefore, has fallen on the English coach’s shoulders, and after nearly five years in charge, he’s starting to look jaded.

It was something Newcastle United club legend Alan Shearer picked up on, too.

"I look at his interview after the game, and I am not sure the fight is there,” said the ex-striker after the Magpies’ defeat to Bournemouth on the Rest is Football podcast.

“It is a very different club now to the one that he would want to go forward. He doesn’t look in a good position.

"As tough as it is for Eddie, I don’t know what is going to happen with him. I listened to his interview afterwards and I watched him on the touchline and I just think is he going to want to go again? Is he going to get the chance to go again?

"There are so many moving parts with it for him. If all things are equal, then yes, I would like him to [stay]. But does he feel as if he is going to have the chance? Does he want to do it again? Are Newcastle going to have to sell?

"If he has money to spend and he doesn’t have to sell, then, yeah. But I looked at the players yesterday, and if that was what they call fighting for their manager, because he is under huge pressure, whether you like it or not, they were terrible. They chucked him under the bus, the players. The performance was c**p from every single one of them.

"It is a tough situation, a tough summer for Newcastle coming up. They have got some big decisions to make. As I am sat here, I don’t see Eddie in charge of Newcastle next season, unfortunately.”

Once a manager’s motivation has seeped away—a point which is difficult to confirm—it’s tough to recover. This challenge is relevant now as the club faces mounting struggles.

Recent results for Newcastle have been dire, but it might not be because the coach has lost the love.

Nevertheless, even the loyal North East fanbase is starting to wonder what life might be without Howe, according to Sky Sports News reporter Keith Downie.

"The situation has not changed since the Bournemouth game but it feels like it’s about 50-50 within the fanbase as to whether they want Eddie Howe to remain in charge,” he claimed.

"Is that uncertainty feeding into the poor performances and the general negative mood? Potentially yes. This isn’t the Newcastle we've seen under the last couple of years, the swashbuckling style.

"It feels like some players have checked out, to an extent. Four defeats in a row, eight defeats from 11, and at St James’ Park which has previously been a fortress, five out of the last six matches have ended in defeat.

"I don’t think PIF [the club's owners] will make any knee-jerk reactions. They'll look at the situation at the end of the season, but so will Howe himself and question whether he is ready to go again.

"There is a question over whether he will stay at the club in the longer term, but we won’t get an answer to that question until the end of the season.

"The last one did not go well after spending £250m in the summer, and three out of the five big-money arrivals have not worked.

"Howe has to wear that, he didn’t get his first-choice signings but they were all players still on his list. He was asked a direct question about that a few weeks ago and confirmed that.

"But looking at the big-name stars, Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon, who have both been at the centre of speculation about their futures, they’re guys who are going to look to move elsewhere if their ambitions don't feel matched by Newcastle.”

Though these issues are beyond Howe’s control, he must navigate them because there is no alternative leadership.

From the lack of progress in developing the stadium and training ground to the unedifying transfer saga involving Alexander Isak in the summer, Howe is the man who faces the questions.

Now the counterargument would be that this is what any manager at an elite club should expect.

But the brutal reality is that Newcastle United is not there yet, and therefore it is totally unfair to cast such a judgment.

As summer nears, the two parties must decide: commit to one final effort together, or choose to replace leadership and inject new energy into the dugout?

Newcastle’s task will remain steep, and Howe must now confront whether he still has the resolve for a challenge defined by outsized expectations and unstable foundations.​

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

With only 48 days until the kickoff of the FIFA World Cup on June 11, there is lagging enthusiasm for the U.S. men's national team in their three group-stage matches on the west coast.

In most countries in the world, any World Cup game for the home team likely would be an instant sellout.

Tickets, however, have been a slow sell as the U.S. Men’s National Team has been slow fill SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., just outside of Los Angeles, for its June 12 opener against Paraguay. That match had the third highest priced tickets when FIFA introduced ticket sales in October.

The team also has similar numbers to for its second game against Australia in Seattle on June 19 and against Turkey on June 25, according to The Athletic. That is not a good look for the World Cup or for FIFA.

Compare that to the June 15 match at SoFi Stadium, as 50,661 tickets have been sold for the Iran-New Zealand encounter.

The slow sales come from several factors, including extremely high-ticket prices, which has created controversy coast-to-coast, that the U.S. has traditionally experienced problems attracting pro-American crowds on its own soil, particularly in southern California, and that the squad hasn't impressed in its recent performances.

World Cup ticket prices have gone through the roof

The Athletic reported that when tickets originally went on sale in October, the U.S.’s June 12 opener was the third most expensive ticket of the entire tournament, trailing only one semifinal and the final. It also said that Category 1 and 2 tickets, which cost $2,730 and $1,940, respectively, are still for sale.

Exorbitant ticket prices have turned off many long-time soccer supporters, who don’t want to attend any matches in many markets because they are unaffordable. Many fans have told this writer that if they were going to attend a World Cup game, they would rather watch another team than the USMNT. This isn't a scientific survey by any means, but it is a damning assessment.

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Los Angeles Area Hasn’t Been Receptive To The USMNT

The USMNT traditionally has been a hard sell when playing on its own soil, especially in the Los Angeles vicinity. In fact, the U.S. has avoided playing internationals - friendly or competition in the area because of a sizable Latino population that would root for their team.

The last time the Americans performed in LA was more than three years ago, a scoreless draw with Colombia in Carson, Calif. on Jan. 28, 2023.

When the USMNT needs to play Mexico in World Cup qualifying, it has chosen Columbus or Cincinnati, Ohio since 2001. The Americans have posted a 5-1-0 record in those games, with all five victories as the famous dos a cero result.

There are, however, other areas of the country while the U.S. struggles.

Take, for example, the U.S.'s 2-0 loss to the Korea Republic in an international friendly at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, N.J. on Sept. 7. A huge amount of the 25,600-capacity crowd cheered for the visiting side.

“It was like a home match,” South Korea head coach Hong Myung-bo said through an interpreter after the match, according to The Athletic.

USMNT Struggles Against The World’s Best, Outside Of Concacaf

While it has done well in Concacaf competitions, recent USMNT squads have not acquitted themselves well in competitions that really count - such as the World Cup and Copa America. Despite being the hosts, U.S. was eliminated in the group stage of Copa America in 2024, which resulted in the firing of head coach Gregg Berhalter.

The Americans have captured seven Concacaf Gold Cups, last emerging with a 1-0 triumph over archrival Mexico, in 2021.

They also won the first three Concacaf Nations League crowns in 2021, 2023 and 2024. In the most recent competition, however, in 2025, the team failed miserably, losing to Panama in the semifinals and Canada in the third-place match.

In its two most recent international matches, the U.S. was drubbed by Belgium, 5-2, on March 28, and then was blanked by Portugal three days later on March 31.

Further reading on Forbes:

World Cup Uncertainty Grows—Here’s Why The Promised Tourism Boon Is Under Threat (Forbes)

Lack Of World Cup Success Hasn’t Helped The USA

The team has enjoyed middling success in the World Cup, the ultimate barometer for every national team.

Since breaking a 40-year drought in 1990, the U.S. has advanced out of the group stage five out of eight appearances (1994, 2002, 2010, 2014, 2022). It has reached the quarterfinals in the 2002 World Cup in Korea/Japan. Interestingly, the team has failed to reach the knockout in four European appearances (1934, 1990, 1998 and 2006).

The only time the Americans went very deep in the tournament was in the inaugural World Cup, almost a century ago, when they reached the semifinals in what was a 13-team tournament and by invitation.

It should be noted the U.S. has qualified for the knockout round in its most recent World Cup appearances (2010, 2014, 2022) but was eliminated in the Round of 16 each time.

As we get closer to the cup's kickoff, it will be interesting to see if interest in the three U.S. group stage matches pick up or if ticket prices drop on FIFA's dynamic pricing scale.

If the USMNT can’t fill SoFi Stadium for its World Cup opener, it will be embarrassing for FIFA and the home side.

Michael Lewis, the sixth recipient of the Clay Berling Media Career of Excellence Award in 2025, can be followed on X (formerly Twitter) and Bluesky at @Soccerwriter. His 10th soccer book, Around the World Cup in 40 Years: An American sportswriter's perspective, will be published this spring.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

Carlos Alcaraz won’t be defending his Roland Garros title this spring.

The world No. 2 has withdrawn from the clay court Grand Slam due to a wrist injury. He also won’t play in Rome and is missing Barcelona. He reportedly has a “full splint around his right wrist.”

The French Open runs May 24-June 7.

“After the results of the tests carried out today, we have decided that the most prudent thing is to be cautious and not participate in Rome and Roland Garros, while we wait to assess the evolution to decide when we will return to the court,” he announced on social media. “It's a complicated moment for me, but I'm sure we'll come out stronger from here”

Alcaraz has won seven Grand Slam singles titles, including the last two French Open titles in 2024 and '25. He and world No. 1 Jannik Sinner have won the last nine straight major titles.

Last year, Alcaraz roared back from two sets down to defeat Sinner in five sets.

Sinner was up 5-3, 0-40 on Alcaraz’s serve in the fourth set and the Spaniard saved three championship points.

Spanish TV show El Partido de COPE reported Alcaraz has an inflamed tendon sheath in his wrist.

“In the sheath of the tendon, which is inflamed,” Angel Ga Muñiz said. “His wrist has been immobilised for four days, since last Friday. And that test, that decisive test, that key test that Carlos Alcaraz talks about is a follow-up ultrasound.

“The first one was done right after the injury in Barcelona. At that very moment, the decision was already made that Madrid was impossible and it was already suspected that Rome would also be very difficult, and they were dreaming about Roland Garros. Now that dream seems a bit further away.

“Everything depends on what comes out in that follow-up ultrasound, on whether the inflammation has gone down, on whether that sheath that protects the tendon is better. But obviously Rome now seems absolutely impossible, and Roland Garros looks bad."

After Roland Garros, Wimbledon follows shortly between June 29-July 12.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com