Draymond Green made an incredible defensive stand in Wednesday's win over the Los Angeles Clippers, forcing two turnovers during crunch time in what ended as a five-point Warriors victory.

Following the game, NBA insider Shams Charania reported that Green had been playing with an illness throughout the duration of the contest.

"Team sources told me Draymond Green was sick; he was throwing up, puking all over the place in pregame, sideline in the back area by the locker room," said Charania.

Although Green has yet to confirm this, it would mark another iconic "flu game" from another No. 23.

Despite the reported sickness, Green is not listed on Golden State's injury report ahead of Friday's elimination game against Phoenix.

This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: NBA insider: Draymond Green played through sickness vs. Clippers

With the 2026 NFL Draft less than a week away, we have updated our big board, including our Top 75 players. This is not the list of who I believe the first 75 players selected will be. This is just my list of the 75 best prospects. Position value, team needs and perception are how the draft plays out but these are my favorite players.

1 - S Caleb Downs - Ohio State

2 - EDGE Arvell Reese - Ohio State

3 - EDGE David Bailey - Texas Tech

4 - QB Fernando Mendoza - Indiana

5 - LB Sonny Styles - Ohio State

6 - CB Mansoor Delane - LSU

7 - OT Francis Mauigoa - Miami

8 - WR Carnell Tate - Ohio State

9 - OT Spencer Fano - Utah

10 - EDGE Rueben Bain Jr. - Miami

11 - CB Jermod McCoy - Tennessee

12 - RB Jeremiyah Love - Notre Dame

13 - S Dillon Thieneman - Oregon

14 - G Vega Ioane - Penn State

15 - WR Jordyn Tyson - Arizona State

16 - OT Caleb Lomu - Utah

17 - TE Kenyon Sadiq - Oregon

18 - WR Makai Lemon - USC

19 - EDGE Keldric Faulk - Auburn

20 - WR Omar Cooper Jr. - Indiana

21 - WR Denzel Boston - Washington

22 - S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren - Toledo

23 - EDGE Cashius Howell - Texas A&M

24 - CB Colton Hood - Tennessee

25 - DT Kayden McDonald - Ohio State

26 - CB Chris Johnson - San Diego State

27 - OT Monroe Freeling - Georgia

28 - OL Kaydn Proctor - Alabama

29 - DT Caleb Banks - Florida

30 - DT Peter Woods - Clemson

31 - LB Jacob Rodriguez - Texas Tech

32 - OT Max Iheanachor - Arizona State

33 - LB C.J. Allen - Georgia

34 - S AJ Haulcy - LSU

35 - EDGE T.J. Parker - Clemson

36 - WR Chris Bell - Louisville

37 - G Keylan Rutledge - Georgia Tech

38 - WR Kevin Concepcion - Texas A&M

39 - CB Keith Abney - Arizona State

40 - EDGE Akheem Mesidor - Miami

41 - QB Ty Simpson - Alabama

42 - G Emmanuel Pregnon - Oregon

43 - CB D’Angelo Ponds - Indiana

44 - CB Avieon Terrell - Clemson

45 - RB Mike Washington Jr. - Arkansas

46 - WR Germie Bernard - Alabama

47 - LB Jake Golday - Cincinnati

48 - CB Keionte Scott - Miami

49 - EDGE R. Mason Thomas - Oklahoma

50 - DT Lee Hinter - Texas Tech

51 - WR Antonio Williams - Clemson

52 - CB Treydan Stukes - Arizona

53 - QB Cole Payton - North Dakota State

54 - EDGE Zion Young - Missouri

55 - TE Oscar Delp - Georgia

56 - WR Chris Brazzell II - Tennessee

57 - TE Nate Boerkircher - Texas A&M

58 - LB Josiah Trotter - Missouri

59 - WR Skyler Bell - UConn

60 - EDGE Malachi Lawrence - UCF

61 - OT Blake Miller - Clemson

62 - TE Max Klare - Ohio State

63 - CB Brandon Cisse - South Carolina

64 - G Chase Bisontis - Texas A&M

65 - EDGE Gabe Jacas - Illinois

66 - G Gennings Dunker - Iowa

67 - OT Calb Tiernan - Northwestern

68 - EDGE Joshua Josephs - Tennessee

69 - WR Bryce Lance - North Dakota State

70 - EDGE Derrick Moore - Michigan

71 - DT Gracen Halton - Oklahoma

72 - DT Domonique Orange - Iowa State

73 - WR Elijah Sarratt - Indiana

74 - C Sam Hecht - Kansas State

75 - LB Kyle Louis - Pitt

This article originally appeared on Draft Wire: 2026 NFL Draft: Final big board of top 75 prospects

The Cincinnati Bengals have a really small list of obvious draft targets at No. 10 overall this year. 

Those fall on the defensive side of the ball, of course. There’s Caleb Downs and Sonny Styles. Then there’s the cornerback debate between Mansoor Delane and Jermod McCoy. 

But what about Kadyn Proctor? 

For those a little blindsided by this, Proctor out of Alabama is one of the best offensive tackles in the draft class. Not a familiar name to Bengals fans, given the focus on defense. 

But Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated floated the idea in a recent mailbag: “Damon, my guess is that No. 10 is close to being the floor for Downs. I don’t say that unequivocally because I think Bain could be in play for them, as well as the top two corners (again, depending on what they think of McCoy’s knee). I’d also throw Proctor in there as a wild-card name I’ve heard for Cincinnati.”

Maybe this was just said in passing around the NFL as something the Bengals might do as a last-case scenario at No. 10. Styles, Delane and Downs could be gone by the time they get to the podium. If they don’t like the medicals on McCoy and can’t find a trade-down partner, maybe Proctor would really be the top player on their board. 

It would be a controversial pick for the Bengals, to say the least. Proctor is the 27th-ranked player at PFF, for example. Orlando Brown will turn 30 next month, but just signed an extension. Amarius Mims is a former first-rounder who looks like he could be a long-term starter. There’s no guarantee Proctor could kick inside to guard, if needed. 

It’s hard to imagine the Bengals go this route, but they do value the tackle spots highly and take swings often, for better or worse. Unlikely or not, it’s now something to keep in the back of the mind. 

This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: NFL insider floats a ‘wild-card’ rumor about Bengals’ first-round pick

With all of the Pittsburgh Steelers Top 30 visits in the books, we have one final seven-round mock draft update using just those players. We did it with on caveat. By the final pick, there were no more prospects left that did a Top-30 visit and made any sense. So we took a mulligan and added a punter who no one ever brings in for a pre-draft visit.

First round - G Vega Ioane - Penn State

As much as we wanted to make this pick, Spencer Fano, that would have taken a significant trade-up, and this was more about the players than the picks. Vega is an easy choice and a 10-year starter at left guard.

Second round - WR Germie Bernard - Alabama

Bernard is a receiver who runs like a running back and offers an incredible amount of scheme and position versatility as a No. 3 receiver.

Third round - CB Treydan Stukes - Arizona

I've come around on Stukes after not being as high on him at the end of the season. His leadership and maturity are unmatched and once he ran a 4.33-second 40-yard dash at the combine, we were fans. He plays bigger than he is and is so smart and technically sound.

Third round - QB Cole Payton - North Dakota State

If the Steelers front office wants to add athleticism to the quarterback position and break the trend, Cole Payton is as solid a risk as you could want. Since we assume Aaron Rodgers is coming back, there's no rush for him to play, and he'll have plenty of opportunity to polish his passing game.

Third round - LB Harold Perkins Jr. - LSU

Perkins is a tweener, and this might worry some teams, but he's just too much of a playmaker not to bring in and find a role for on defense, whether it is at linebacker or safety.

Fourth round - OT Markel Bell - Miami

Massive tackle prospect who just mauls defenders. A great insurance plan in case Broderick Jones isn't re-signed after the season.

Fourth round - DT Darrell Jackson - Florida State

Massive defensive tackle with elite height and length but needs to play with more burst and better leverage off the edge.

Fifth round - S Jakobe Thomas - Miami

Thomas is more production than athleticism and splash plays but could start on special teams and work into the safety rotation.

Sixth round - TE Will Kacmarek - Ohio State

Kacmarek is the best blocking tight end in the draft bar none and a great fit with Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington.

Seventh round - WR Kendrick Law - Kentucky

Depth pick who will have to fight the make the team but has some value on gadget plays.

Seventh round - CB Ephesians Prysock - Washington

A steal this late just based on his measurables alone. This year's Cory Trice in terms of size and potential but how raw he is.

Seventh round - P Jack Stonehouse - Syracuse

A wildcard pick here to round out the draft. The Steelers need to bring in competition at punter and we love Stonehouse. Well worth a pick.

This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers final mock draft update: Top-30 visit edition

Midfielder Bobby Clark will miss the rest of the Championship season unless Derby reach the play-offs, says head coach John Eustace.

The 21-year-old is on a season-long loan from Austrian side Red Bull Salzburg but picked up a hamstring injury in last week's 2-1 defeat by Southampton which Eustace says will sideline him for the remaining four games of the regular season.

"It's not as bad as we initially thought, which is fantastic news for him, but unfortunately he's going to be missing for three or four weeks so we probably won't see him again this season unless we reach the play-off semi-finals," the Rams boss told BBC Radio Derby.

"That's something we need to keep driving for as we obviously want to see him put on a Derby shirt before the end of the season."

Clark has made 41 league appearances for Derby since joining in August, scoring three goals, and Eustace is keen to try to make his stay permanent.

"He's disappointed not to finish the season with us. He's enjoyed his time here, loved the way he's developed, so I'm pretty confident if the opportunity was here for us to sign him for next season, he'd want to come," he added.

"He's a clever player, a young lad who has come out of his shell throughout the season."

Derby are currently eighth in the Championship table, five points short of the play-off places and host Oxford United on Saturday (12:30 BST).

The reigning NEC Player of the Year will be spending her final collegiate season with the Wisconsin Badgers.

On3's Talia Goodman announced 6-foot-3 forward Kadidia Toure is coming to Madison, as she's set to join her fourth team in five seasons.

The Maryland native's career began at JMU, where she spent one season. After appearing in 21 games, she transferred to Arizona State, where she made 35 appearances in two seasons. From there, she made the jump to Long Island, which helped get her career back on track.

NEWS: LIU transfer Kadidia Toure has committed to Wisconsin, sources told @On3.

The 6-3 junior averaged 19.2 ppg, 10.4 rpg, 2.9 apg, 2 spg and 1.4 bpg this season.

TRACKER: https://t.co/wYv1Ze6704pic.twitter.com/eGEIYANqPn

— Talia Goodman (@TaliaGoodmanWBB) April 15, 2026

Toure went from making 7 starts in 31 games played with the Sun Devils in 2023-24 to appearing in just four games the next season. Last year, she averaged a career high 29.4 minutes per game as she just so happened to average a double-double with the Sharks.

One of the nation’s most productive players is headed to Madison!

Welcome home, Kadidia Toure! pic.twitter.com/WeJYplD7i7

— Wisconsin Women’s Basketball (@BadgerWBB) April 15, 2026

As a junior, Toure put up numbers that were out of this world. Her 19.2 points and 10.4 rebounds per game left the NEC no choice but to name her player of the year.

First-year head coach Robin Pingeton had lost four players in the portal, and that's not even including star guard Destiny Howell, who graduated. Safe to say, she hit a home run with her first transfer as this team begins to get back on track.

Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion.

This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Wisconsin women's basketball adds Long Island's Kadidia Toure

Cambridge United boss Neil Harris said his side have earned a "huge opportunity" to secure automatic promotion with three games left to play.

The U's drew 0-0 with League Two leaders Bromley to remain third in the table, having thumped fourth-placed Notts County 4-0 on Saturday.

They now have back-to-back home games against Grimsby Town and Barrow before ending the season away to Crewe Alexandra.

"Looking at it glass half full, we'll sit back now and see what the next 48 hours brings for the teams around us," Harris told BBC Radio Cambridgeshire.

"We'll go into next Tuesday's game with Grimsby knowing that in the very worst case, a point puts us back into third with two games to go. We've got ourselves into a wonderful position."

Cambridge are looking to bounce back at the first attempt following last season's relegation and have won almost half of their 43 games so far, losing only seven.

"With 10 games to go, we were playing seven of the top eight and it's still tough what's in front of us - Grimsby are fighting to get in the play-offs, Barrow fighting for their lives to stay in the league and Crewe - they might have a chance of the play-offs, they might not," said Harris.

"We've had a tough run of fixtures and come out in a strong position and that's given us a huge opportunity."

Cambridge have the meanest defence in the fourth tier, with just 31 goals conceded, 12 fewer than any other team.

And they again showed their resilience with a clean sheet at Bromley, despite having to bring in Preston keeper Jack Walton, who had not played a senior game since January, on an emergency loan.

Harris said: "The changing room are disappointed not to win but chuffed with themselves for the way we stood strong - and we're really chuffed for Jack Walton because he showed some real character and belief to come into a game live on Sky, first versus third, away from home, and play like that. What a great lad, I can't praise him highly enough."

The one worry for Cambridge was the loss of Northern Ireland striker Shayne Lavery early in the second half.

"We've been in this position lots of times with Shayne," said Harris.

"He felt something in his back and glute and hamstring. We were sensible, he's not pulled up, he's not gone down, and we're hopeful that he's going to be OK quickly but we just don't know [at the moment].

"If he is, great. If not, then it's down to Louis [Appere] and Elliot [Nevitt] to step up and find the goals we need."

He added: "We should have been 3-0 up at half-time. We talked a lot about taking chances when they come. We saw on Saturday how ruthless we were - and we weren't quite as ruthless tonight.

"I'm proud of the group for where we are at the moment, proud of the group for the backs-to-the-wall second half when they are relentless in what they do. They ask serious questions of you and we had to stand strong.

"When we got the ball down and passed the ball in the first and second halves, we looked like a proper football team, a dangerous team, a team better than the level we play at."

There is just one week left until the 2026 NFL Draft, and the entire NFL is abuzz with what each team is going to do. Which player will they select? Will they trade up or down? Mock drafts are released in droves as everyone tries to predict what is ultimately a pretty unpredictable event. So, when someone deviates from the standard mock draft, it's always a nice change of pace.

Recently, Sports Illustrated's Gilberto Manzano created each team's "dream scenario" for the first round of the draft. When it came to the Washington Commanders, he was pretty spot on.

Dream Scenario: Love or Reese falls to No. 7

After writing this story, it seems a quarter of the league would love to draft Reese. If he somehow is available for Washington, GM Adam Peters shouldn’t hesitate to draft him. But there’s a better chance Love is available at No. 7, considering that teams shy away from taking a running back that high.

A duo of Jayden Daniels and Love would be a scary sight for defense. Adding him to Washington’s backfield would get this team back where it was after the surprising 2024 season.

While the Commanders would absolutely jump all over drafting Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese, the likelihood that he is there is slim. Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, though, could potentially be there if the Tennessee Titans and New York Giants both opt for defensive selections.

What may pose a bigger problem for Adam Peters is if both Jeremiyah Love and Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate are available at seven. At that point, it becomes incredibly difficult to decide which player to select. Love probably has more talent, but Tate is still talented, and he helps more at a position of need. Certainly, no one would envy Peters' position should he be faced with such a decision on April 23.

With the No. 7 pick, the Commanders have a ton of options. Trading back is one of them, and it's one they will definitely explore. But if they don't trade back, Peters will have his work cut out for him to make the right selection, knowing there is no second-round pick coming.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: What is 'dream scenario' for 2026 NFL Draft?

A Connecticut native was just six years old when he was gravely injured in a Hartford fire that killed more than 150 people and haunted the city for generations.

Now, a biographical sports documentary chronicling the life of Connecticut native Jerry LeVasseur is in production.

LeVasseur, a survivor of the 1944 Hartford Circus Fire, had a lengthy career as a college running coach and is still competing in track and field as an 88-year-old. His mother died saving him from the fire.

LeVasseur, a Bristol native, was with his mother when the fire burned down the Ringling Bros.
and Barnum & Bailey circus tent in Hartford. One hundred and sixty-eight people died in the fire.

LeVasseur was rescued from the wreckage with severe burns and life-threatening injuries and was treated at Hartford Hospital for six months.

Journalist and filmmaker Andrew McGowan, who is heading the documentary about LeVasseur, said doctors weren’t sure if LeVasseur would survive.

Sports and a family

“LeVasseur not only survived, but thrived, rebounding to become a lifelong athlete,” McGowan said.

LeVasseur went on to play basketball and football at Frederick Gunn School in Washington, Conn. He earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting at Lehigh University, where he competed in skiing, soccer and track and field.

LeVasseur and his wife raised four daughters in Connecticut living along the shoreline in both North Branford and Madison.

For a living, LeVasseur was the CFO of Pratt-Reid Manufacturing. He also took up sled-dog racing and trained dozens of canine teams in New England for about 30 years.

In his mid-40s, LeVasseur began competing in distance running events and eventually expanded his repertoire to sprints, steeplechase, long jump and triple jump. Over the last four decades, LeVasseur has traveled the world as a runner. He has broken records and won national titles in his age groups.

McGowan said LeVasseur has continued to persevere as an athlete after overcoming “cancers and surgeries.”

The documentary, which has not been named yet, will chronicle LeVasseur’s life and his story of perseverance and will capture LeVasseur’s current season training for the National Masters Championships.

McGowan began production in early March while LeVasseur was competing in the 2026 USATF-Maine Association Indoor Championships in Brunswick, Maine on March 8.

McGowan is directing and producing the documentary met LeVasseur while he was on the track and cross-country teams at Bowdoin College. LeVasseur was an assistant coach at the school for nearly 20 years after LeVasseur and his wife retired and moved to Maine in 2004.

“I was lucky enough to have my four years at Bowdoin overlap with his tenure and I got to know him and his story,” McGowan said. “He is such an incredible person and has such an incredible story and it’s so inspiring and so uplifting. I always thought it would make a great documentary film since I graduated in 2019.”

Since his time at Bowdoin, McGowan has been “working in the film world” at festivals and working for different production companies and most recently earned an MFA from UCLA’s school of theater film and television. He most recently took a documentary-producing class about a year ago as a graduate student. The class rekindled this idea of chronicling LeVasseur’s story.

“That got me thinking about this topic in Jerry’s story more strategically, and realized the pieces were there to make it a reality, so reconnected with Jerry and he said that he would be happy to share his story for a film as long as it would help people. Knowing his story, it certainly will help people and inspire people,” McGowan said.

McGowan reconnected with LeVasseur last fall. McGowan, a New Jersey native, was living in Los Angeles at the time and moved back to Maine in January. He hired a director of photography and “hit the ground running and began filming last month.”

In addition to filming LeVasseur at the Maine Indoor State Championship, he also filmed him training and competing in road races and other events.

“I just recently did the first long form sit down interview with them, which is really big for us developing the structure of the film,” McGowan said.

The climax of the story will be LeVasseur competing at the 2026 Outdoor National Master’s Championships in July in Geneva, Ohio. Following the Masters event, McGowan will edit the film together with archival materials. The goal is to have the film completed in early 2027.

McGowan said he’s been in touch with the Hartford Historical Society about getting archived materials from the 1944 fire and materials from the time McGowan was growing up in Connecticut.

McGowan plans to film LeVasseur’s 70th high school reunion at the Frederick Gunn School in June.

Life well-lived despite the fire

McGowan said LeVasseur remembered the 1944 Hartford fire vividly, even as a 6-year-old.

“He remembers it about as well as you can imagine somebody remembering something from when they were six years old. He has pretty vivid memories of taking the bus from Bristol to Hartford with his mother and a couple of his neighbors. He remembers the circus act going on and the animal act taking place. He said just as the trapeze act was happening was when people started noticing a fire going off and then panic breaking out and people rushing to the exits,” McGowan said.

The day the clowns cried: The story of the Hartford circus fire

“He says that he has blocked out the memory of at some point during the attempt to exit in that stampede. He says the next thing he remembers is being transported to the hospital with some first responders. The most traumatic events are a little fuzzier, and he remembers being in the hospital for the next several months, being treated for all of this,” he added.

McGowan said that LeVasseur relayed to him that he couldn’t grasp the severity of the situation at the time and LeVasseur remembered “his wounds being dire.”

“He later connected with other survivors who had trouble going into crowds for the rest of their lives,” McGowan said. “He didn’t have those same issues but always checks for emergency exits wherever he is.”

“He was able to grow up and live a healthy life both physically and mentally despite what he went through. He’s living history and has a relatively vivid account of what went down,” he added.

McGowan said LeVasseur missed a full school year after the fire being treated for his injuries. He had noticeable wounds from his injuries and some classmates picked on him. LeVasseur suffered third-degree burns mainly on his arms and some on his head. LeVasseur’s fingers were fused together, and he had operations on his hands until he was 12 years old. His care required several surgeries as well as physical therapy.

“You notice his hands are still scarred by the fire and he doesn’t have all 10 fingers at full length,” McGowan said. “Nobody knows for sure how the burns affected some parts of his body and not others. The understanding is that there was sort of a pile of people that might have protected part of his body,” McGowan said.

McGowan said LeVasseur built up his confidence when entering Frederick Gunn School in 1952 and being involved in basketball and football.

McGowan said LeVasseur impacted him in their four years together in Maine. McGowan described LeVasseur as proud but humble.

“He’s a very sweet man and very engaging,” McGowan said. “It makes for a great subject in a documentary. He’s very detailed and generous with his stories. He’s generous in spirit, encouraging others and helping people find their best selves.”

“In every interview I’ve done with him he always says he gets more out of supporting other athletes than his own successes,” he added. “He’s the type of person that wants to life everyone around him. He was always a beloved member of the Bowdoin track and cross county communities.”

McGowan, 28, said LeVasseur is the leader for a group of senior athletes that train at Bowdoin.

LeVasseur competes in long jump and triple jump, relays as well as sprinting events like the 60-meter-dash and the 100-meter-dash in the 85-to-89-year-old age group.

“Jerry is eager to share his story because he thinks he can help others,” McGowan said.

LeVasseur is looking to raise funding for the project with a Kickstarter campaign.

Has Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters already determined who he wants at No. 7, next Thursday night?

Peters spoke with the media on Thursday regarding the 2026 NFL Draft and trade philosophy. When Peters was asked about trading back, he replied, "I think with any trade, whether it is at 7 or anywhere, it's who's available? How far back are you going? What are you getting for it? Who do you think will be available wherever you are trading back to?"

Peters reminded the press, "it is always easier to predict the top of the draft than it is the lower you go in the draft. You don't really know who is going to be available. There is a lot more variance at that point."

A nugget was provided, however, by Peters regarding the Commanders' 2025 draft. Some may recall that when selecting Oregon OT Josh Conerly, Peters told the media during the draft that they had determined that, if he was still there, they would take him. Thursday Peters referencing back said, "We got a lot of offers (trade) when we picked Josh. There were a lot of offers, but we said before the draft that if Josh is there, we're going to pick him."

Perhaps the Commanders valued an offensive lineman of his quality and didn't want to miss an opportunity to secure an athletic offensive tackle for many years to come.

Consequently, seeing the Commanders made such a decision in last year's draft, it could likely be the case that they have a name or two for this year's draft, that if still available at No. 7, they are not trading down. Would it be LB Sonny Styles that is a non-negotiable? Perhaps Jeremiyah Love? But he is a running back, are teams really going to trade up to get a running back?

So, does Peters anticipate trading the No. 7 pick next week?

"I would say, more likely than not, that would happen," Peters responded when asked if he anticipated picking at No. 7. "But you never know. You never know, and it'll depend on who's on the board, if a team wants to move up, and then we have to decide if we want to do that. But I would say, more likely than not, we'd stay and pick."

Well, Adam Peters gave us something to think about...

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: GM Adam Peters talks trade possibilities

With three games to go, Newport County still have work to do to secure their Football League status for another season.

The ecstasy that poured out at Rodney Parade on Saturday as the Exiles edged closer to safety with a 2-1 win over relegation rivals Harrogate Town has been quickly tempered.

Barrow's 3-2 victory in their game in hand on Tuesday night has left Newport precariously perched just one point above the drop zone, a familiar and uncomfortable position.

In a constant swing from setbacks to jubilation, manager Christian Fuchs must navigate not only the challenges on the pitch but also the emotional rollercoaster off it, shifting from the highs of Saturday's victory to the lows of being dragged back towards danger just days later.

The highs and the lows of Newport's season so far

Level on points with Crawley Town and Tranmere Rovers, Newport head into Saturday's crucial fixture with momentum but nervously looking over their shoulders.

But Fuchs has urged his side to remain focused on themselves.

"To be fair, I saw a little bit of the game [on Tuesday]," the Austrian admitted.

"Barrow got those three points, I'd be disappointed if they didn't fight for the right to remain, but it doesn't affect us. We're focusing on Cheltenham.

"The situation is still the same. It's something we've dealt with for the whole season already and we only have to focus on ourselves."

Since Fuchs' appointment in November, Newport have taken 26 points from 27 matches, a significant improvement on the 11 points collected during David Hughes' 16-game spell earlier in the campaign.

Had Fuchs been at the helm since the start of the season and that rate been sustained, Newport would be approaching 43 points, and seven points clear of danger.

Instead, they have spent much of the campaign entrenched in a survival fight and their struggles have been well-documented.

Until a vital 3-1 home win over Tranmere Rovers in March, County had occupied the bottom two for 151 consecutive days.

A bleak winter saw Fuchs' side go winless in the league from November 8 to December 29, drawing three and losing five, while also exiting both the FA Cup and EFL Trophy.

On Christmas Day, Newport were five points adrift of safety and rooted to the foot of League Two with many seeing them as a certainty for the drop.

Yet spring has brought renewed belief.

The Exiles now sit 22nd, a point above the relegation zone, with survival, crucially, still in their own hands.

A run of seven points from four games that started with an emphatic 3–1 away win at promotion-chasing Salford in February proved a turning point.

Newport have continued to gather momentum and last weekend's success over Harrogate proved another one of those occasions.

Still, nothing is secure. Newport have conceded more goals than any team in the division, kept the joint-fewest clean sheets and average just one goal per game.

With nine precious points still up for grabs, survival is far from a guarantee.

Barrow's dramatic late surge against Oldham on Tuesday, scoring three goals in the final ten minutes, means they could temporarily overtake Newport if they beat Walsall in Saturday lunchtime's early kick-off.

"That's [other results] something you cannot affect," Fuchs said.

"It's all about us. And when we do the simple things right, when we play the ball into the right areas, and when we focus on ourselves, then we have a very good chance.

"That's a distraction obviously that could affect the game or mentality but I'm really not too worried about that."

'We're looking forward to Saturday'

The immediate focus is Saturday's crucial meeting with Cheltenham Town,

The Robins sit 18th, 12 points clear of trouble and are already assured of their League Two status, which the Exiles continue to seek.

But Fuchs believes that situation makes the game unpredictable rather than straightforward.

"Well, it's one of those that you probably don't know what to expect because they literally don't play for anything anymore at this stage," said Fuchs.

"They are safe. League 2 status guaranteed but I would assume you want to finish the season strong so I'm expecting a competitive game again

"It's the next game for us, that's the most important one, don't worry about what anybody else does."

Despite Barrow's late gasp win and the looming possibility of a final-day showdown against former player Sam Foley, morale in the Newport camp remains high.

"We're just coming off a win at home against Harrogate. Everybody's in good spirits," Fuchs added.

"That's been the theme over the season. Whenever we had setbacks, we put our heads up and kept going. That win definitely elevated the spirits even more and gave us a lot more confidence.

"We're very much looking forward to Saturday already."

Fuchs will be further buoyed by the return of last weekend's matchwinner Joe Thomas, though this game will come too soon for forward Courtney Baker-Richardson, who has only scored two goals since Fuchs' arrival.

But Fuchs is in no doubt that his side have enough to survive and Saturday could yet prove another step forward in achieving this milestone.

"I think you know the answer. The boys have shown, very much so, that they have more than enough to stay up," he said.

"They are all in. And that's also something that you really appreciate as a manager, that you have a team that are really all the way bought in.

"They want to bring the club forward and make sure that we remain in League Two."

Scottish Cup semi-final: Dunfermline Athletic v Falkirk

Date: Saturday 18 April Venue: Hampden Park Kick-off: 12:30 BST

Coverage: Watch live on BBC One Scotland, BBC Sport website & iPlayer, listen on BBC Radio Scotland & BBC Sounds, text updates on BBC Sport website

Neil Lennon reckons John McGlynn should be "in the conversation" to become the next Celtic manager as the Dunfermline Athletic boss aims to get the better of his Falkirk counterpart in Saturday's Scottish Cup semi-final.

As they prepare to meet at Hampden, Lennon, who had two spells in charge at Celtic, described McGlynn as "one of the best coaches in the game here".

McGlynn, 64, has steered Falkirk to a top-six finish in the Scottish Premiership, having won successive promotions to the top flight.

The former Hearts, Raith Rovers and Livingston manager worked as a first-team scout and opposition analyst at Celtic from January 2015 until September 2018.

Celtic have had three different managers in this campaign, with Martin O'Neill's second interim period running until the end of the season.

"He's got longevity," said Lennon of McGlynn. "I think he should be in the conversation for the next Celtic manager as well.

"Whether that would appeal to John I don't know and I don't want to throw him under the bus. I apologise to the Falkirk people as well, but that's how I rate John.

"I don't think I've ever come up against him in a competitive game. He's in the way on Saturday so we'll just have to go at it as best we can.

"I've got such admiration and respect for what he's achieved, not just at Falkirk but throughout his career.

"He's learned, he's worked hard and he's reaping the rewards of it. Fair play. He's a sponge and I know he's very thorough in his detailed approach."

Lennon, 54, won the Scottish Cup four times as a player with Celtic and did the same as manager.

He is aiming for a third Premiership scalp in this season's competition, with Dunfermline having already eliminated Hibernian and Aberdeen.

Celtic take on St Mirren in the other semi-final.

• Lennon annoyed at 'unfair' Dunfermline fixtures
• Falkirk boss McGlynn eyes pinnacle of cup final

Former Bournemouth midfielder Joe Partington heaped praise on Eli Junior Kroupi after his goal against Arsenal on Saturday and described the 19-year-old as one of "the world's best teenage goalscorers".

Kroupi's opener in the 2-1 win made him the first teenager to score 10 goals in his maiden Premier League season since Robbie Keane for Coventry in 1999-2000.

Speaking on the Cherries Unpicked podcast, Partington said: "He knows where the goal is. He's got an eye for it. He sniffs out chances. He's in the right place at the right time and he has the technique and conviction to take those chances.

"He seems to prop up in these positions where he can score all types of goals. That one [against Arsenal] was a tap-in because of his movement, but you also give him a yard outside the box and he can nestle one in the top corner.

"Bournemouth are lucky to have him. The recruitment team have done a really good job of finding these young players that are ready for Premier League football. Not all 19-year-olds can come into the team and play and certainly contribute as he has done.

"[It's a] real huge benefit for the football club, I know that we've lost players over the last few years and may continue to do so in the future. That's just the nature of the beast, I suppose, but at the moment, in Junior Kroupi, we've got one of Europe's, which by extension is probably the world's, best teenage goalscorers."

Listen to the full episode on BBC Sounds

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Saturday, 18 April

Championship Conference

Barry Town United v The New Saints; 17:15 BST: Barry Town go into the final round of games in third position, which would secure them a home play-off semi-final against the team finishing in seventh spot. Saints go into their final game of the season 20 points clear of second placed Nomads and having already wrapped up their 18th title. Saints won 1-0 at Park Hall when the sides last met in the league in January but Barry were 2-0 winners in the Nathaniel MG Cup final the following month.

Caernarfon Town v Penybont; 17:15 BST: Caernarfon go into the game having secured Europa Conference League qualification last weekend following their JD Welsh Cup final win. Penybont, who will be involved in the play-offs, will be looking to repeat their phase one result when they won 2-1 away to Caernarfon.

Connah's Quay Nomads v Colwyn Bay; 17:15 BST: Nomads have already secured their European place next season with a second place finish while the Bay – currently in fourth spot - are two points behind third place Barry Town. Connah's Quay were 2-1 winners in phase one's corresponding fixtures while the two other league meetings this season have finished all square.

Play-off Conference

Bala Town v Briton Ferry Llansawel; 17:15 BST: Bala's 17-year stint in the top-flight is on the line as they host Briton Ferry Llansawel in their final game. The Lakesiders are two points adrift in 11th spot and need to beat Ferry and hope rivals Flint draw or lose to Cardiff Met. Briton Ferry need to win and hope Haverfordwest lose if they are to have any chance of a play-off spot.

Cardiff Met v Flint Town United; 17:15 BST: Flint will need to dust themselves down for the final game of the season after their disappointing Welsh Cup final defeat. The Silkmen go into the final game two points clear of the relegation zone on the back of two league defeats. Cardiff Met have secured their Cymru Premier status for next season but their hopes of reaching the play-offs are over.

Haverfordwest County v Llanelli Town; 17:15 BST: Haverfordwest are seventh - the final play-off spot - going into the final round of matches, three points ahead of eighth placed Briton Ferry Llansawel. Llanelli, who bring the curtain down on a disappointing season which has seen them relegated, have confirmed Terry Boyle as their permanent manager.

The conclusion of the 2026 winter transfer window was a quiet affair for Premier League clubs.

There were no headline-grabbing, big-money deals and none of the customary deadline-day drama. It was, in fact, rather dull.

That is, apart from one quietly curious deal: James Wilson's loan move from Heart of Midlothian to Tottenham Hotspur.

Eyebrows were raised when the talented striker decided to trade top-flight football in favour of playing for Spurs' under-21 side, becoming the latest young Scottish player to decide his prospects elsewhere were brighter than at home.

The relegation-threatened Premier League club won a tug-of-war with rivals Arsenal for the 19-year-old, and have the option to make the move permanent in the summer.

Wilson has scored four goals in seven Premier League 2 appearances, and has twice been an unused substitute for Spurs in the Premier League.

"I've loved it, it's been really good," Wilson said after scoring in Spurs U21s' 1-0 win against Wolves on Friday.

"I have settled in really quickly. The boys in the changing room have been amazing. The coaches have been really good with me. I've had loads of chats and individual meetings with Wayne Burnett [U21s manager].

"I've settled in well at home, that's been quite easy [because] the club helped with that. All in all I can have no complaints, it's been a really easy transition for me."

Meanwhile, the Hearts team he left behind are one point clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership as they look to win a first top-flight title in 66 years. Did Wilson make the right call to leave?

After progressing through the Hearts academy, Wilson signed his first professional contract in the summer of 2023 and made his first-team debut during 2023-24.

In March 2025 he made his senior Scotland debut at 18 years and 17 days old, becoming the youngest player to do so.

Wilson featured in Hearts' opening three Scottish Premiership matches this season, but managed just seven minutes across the 21 league games that followed.

In total, he scored eight goals in 45 appearances for Hearts.

"I couldn't guarantee him minutes, such is the way it's been," said Hearts boss Derek McInnes.

"I told him and his agent that our preference was to stay, fight for his place, be part of something. But his head was turned with the Tottenham thing."

Arsenal were keen to sign the teenager on what would have effectively been a trial basis, but were usurped by Spurs' loan-to-buy offer.

"I don't think it's the right move for him. Ultimately, it's academy football and I think he's better than that. But it was something James wanted to do," McInnes said.

The move reflected Tottenham's new direction of focusing on young British and Scottish talents.

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Former colleagues. Master and apprentice. Title rivals.

Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta's relationship has cut across a range of strands over the years - and evolved along with their managerial styles.

The pair go head to head at Etihad Stadium on Sunday in a match many have billed as a Premier League title decider. A win for Guardiola and second-placed Manchester City would cut the lead of Arteta's Arsenal side to just three points, with a game in hand.

The Spaniards' relationship started in 1997 when Arteta joined Barcelona's academy - meeting his idol, Barca skipper and fellow midfielder Guardiola. Their time as team-mates was brief, but a friendship was forged.

Communication between the two managers cooled significantly when Arteta gave up his role as Guardiola's assistant in Manchester back in 2019 to take charge of Arsenal.

While the City boss' other former assistants maintained closer contact, Arteta stepped away - and that distance created silence.

Guardiola appreciates those that give and take continuously, but if that is not clearly expressed, relationships can fracture even without a clear conflict. Arteta is someone who moves forward without being dependent on past professional bonds.

Contact was eventually re-established in the last year and tensions eased. Nobody wants to say who made the first call, but they speak again.

They are now competing for the same trophies but, at the same time, recognise the strength of the friendship, and both suffer in that solitary place that is managing a football team at the very top.

• Man City smell blood - why Arsenal should fear title rivals
• 'Bottle word will be used' as Arsenal blow title advantage

How Guardiola created a new way of winning

There was a time when Spanish football on Sunday evenings became a kind of ritual for coaches across Europe when the Guardiola-led Barcelona were in action. For 90 minutes everyone tried to understand what they were watching.

Liverpool-born Andy Mangan, opposition scout for Brazil this summer, remembers it as an education.

"At first I didn't understand what he was doing," said Mangan. "But every week he would identify a space to attack, and every Sunday you watched those players play with joy. We were kids but it was inadvertently a vital learning period of so many coaches' lives."

Guardiola built a successful team, but he also created a new way of winning.

Pep Segura, former director of football at Barcelona and ex-Liverpool academy head, added: "Of the four phases of the game - attack, defence, offensive transition, defensive transition - until Pep arrived, most teams structured themselves defensively and took whatever the game gave them. They were reactive. Guardiola arrived and said, 'no, we will think about how we play from the way we attack'."

Football reorganised around possession, positioning and numerical superiority with the ball as the centre of everything. This triggered a response and was where Arteta's story began.

"Teams started asking themselves how to counter this… with pressing and, above all, quick transitions," said Segura.

The game evolved in response to Guardiola's approach; transitions became sharper, physical demands increased, players had to think about what they were doing or had to do.

Crucially, Arteta grew up as a coach in that world.

'A formidable dance partner'

Those who worked closely within that period describe Arteta's time alongside Guardiola at City not just as an apprenticeship. He was remembered as a "formidable dance partner", immersed in the intensity of the manager's methodology.

Guardiola valued his input highly as he helped raise standards in training, particularly in intensity, aggression and competitive detail.

Having played for both Everton and Arsenal, Arteta opened Guardiola's eyes about the Premier League tempo, refereeing, emotional volatility of fans and physical demands.

But he was never a "fundamentalist" of Guardiola's ideas. While aligned in principles when he was his assistant, he was already developing his own thinking. Guardiola innovated and Arteta imagined how the game would adapt.

Segura added: "Unlike Pep, who had to learn transitions which he started doing in Germany, Arteta was born and grew up with them. He played in England, he knows them."

Guardiola's teams, at their core, have always dominated two phases of the game; attacking organisation and defensive transition. They control matches through possession and react immediately when the ball is lost.

Arteta's early Arsenal teams leaned heavily on control, but eventually moved on.

Former Celta Vigo assistant David Martinez explained: "I think he understood that to be competitive and aspire to win titles - offensively there are teams with more resources and talent than Arsenal. He understood he had to base his improvement on dominating everything."

Robert Moreno, former Spain coach, argued Arteta developed his own voice into producing one of the most effective units in Europe.

Mangan also added: "What's fascinating with Mikel is that he's understood where the game is going very quickly - duels, set-pieces, long throws… all the things that now decide matches."

But that process Arteta has worked on comes at a price.

The more a team relies on rehearsed mechanisms, the more it depends on precision. If execution drops, the system can struggle.

This is a key distinction from Guardiola.

Elite teams managed by him maintain an ideal combination of intelligence within structure, and he has players capable of improvising solutions when patterns break down.

At times, Arsenal are perceived as more rigid. There are moments where, instead of breaking structure to solve problems, players remain locked into roles.

'Winning isn't enough any more'

While Arsenal learned to compete at the highest level, Guardiola continued to evolve.

That tension - between adapting and remaining faithful to an idea - defines the 55-year-old's career.

"He starts incorporating new concepts," said Segura. "Above all defensive transition, that's where he evolves enormously.

"Arteta incorporated more physical profiles than Pep. Pep seeks more technical players… Arteta looks for strength, speed, power."

But there are still plenty of points of convergence.

"Both have looked for pieces to improve the offensive transition," added Segura. "City with [Erling] Haaland… Arteta with [Viktor] Gyokeres."

There is an element where the comparison becomes most revealing. In elite football, what defines coaches is how they respond to difficulty.

Arteta is in that moment now. He has built a team capable of competing with the best. But the final step - winning consistently at the very top - is where he wants to get to.

When results do not follow, the temptation is always the same; change and react to external pressure. Arteta has not abandoned those ideas. He has doubled down. He has asked more of his players, pushed harder but within the same framework.

In elite sport, losing is considered part of the process. The next step is evolving and trying again with the same effort, or more.

Guardiola has lived that cycle repeatedly. After setbacks, after criticism, he has returned to his principles and expanded them.

Former Burnley, Everton and Nottingham Forest boss Sean Dyche has witnessed that resilience up close.

"In difficult times, Pep didn't panic," he said. "He adjusted, but he stayed true to what he believes.

"I think it's brilliant management from Pep, and Arteta… they have tried to win a certain way, but they have also evolved to play in ways that we knew before."

There is another layer to the challenge Arteta faces, one created, in part, by Guardiola himself.

"The biggest shift in football now is that winning isn't enough anymore," added Dyche. "People ask how you win."

Guardiola changed expectations.

So now Arsenal, despite their development, are judged on results of course, but also on perception.

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The upcoming NBA playoff series between the Los Angeles Lakers and Houston Rockets is being billed as a clash between LeBron James and Kevin Durant, two of the league's greatest players over the last 10 to 15 years. But the Rockets are a talented team that people had high hopes for when this season started, and they have several other men who are threats.

They have center Alperen Sengun, who made the All-Star team for the second time this year. Forward Amen Thompson is blossoming into a near-star and is very athletic, and Houston's roster is stocked with other role players and complementary players who can hurt the Lakers.

That was the message LeBron James sent on Thursday when he talked to reporters, per Benjamin Royer of the Orange County Register.

“I think the last time we was in Houston I told you all how great he’s been since he picked up a basketball,” James said of Durant. “So that’s one part of it, obviously we know that’s the head of the snake. But it’s the Houston Rockets and they have some damn good players on their team. It’s not just a KD team. It’s the whole group. Like I said, KD is gonna do what KD does, he’s a Hall of Famer, we know that. So we have to prepare not only for him, but for the whole group.

“... They possess some really damn good players on the floor, and we have to be ready for all of that. From KD, to Sengun, to the Thompson twin, Jabari Smith, [Tari] Eason, [Reed] Sheppard. Everyone who goes on the floor is a threat and we have to be ready for that.”

While the Rockets were next-to-last in pace and 18th in scoring during the regular season, they were eighth in offensive rating. They had six players average double figures in scoring, and while they don't have anything close to a true point guard available to play (Fred VanVleet has been out all season with a torn ACL), they have lots of length and size up and down their roster.

In particular, Thompson is someone who could turn out to be a thorn in L.A.'s side. The 6-foot-7 wing has often been masquerading as a point guard, and he averaged 18.3 points, 7.8 rebounds and 5.3 assists a game during the regular season. Of course, Thompson is also regarded as a stellar defender, and he was named to the All-Defensive first team last year.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: LeBron James: Everyone on the Rockets 'is a threat'

If the San Francisco 49ers want to compete in the NFC West, they'll need to invest in their offense. And that's exactly what the Bleacher Report Scouting Department of Brandon Thorn, Dame Parson, Daniel Harms and Matt Holder did in their three-round mock draft.

The 49ers only have a pick in the first two rounds (currently), but didn't execute any trades in B/R's mock. Instead, San Francisco drafted Washington receiver Denzel Boston at No. 27 and Stanford tight end Sam Roush at No. 58.

Denzel Boston is a strong fit for Kyle Shanahan's offense. He wins on contested catches, back-shoulder fades and working across the middle of the field. He is a near-perfect pick to be Evans' understudy. The opportunity to provide quarterback Brock Purdy with ample weapons should be a priority for the Niners.

Boston was the sixth receiver off the board in this mock, which is a coup for the 49ers. They've been linked to receiver prospects in the draft all offseason and land on one who could be a Evans clone in a year or two.

As for the second round, Roush would be another long-term successor for George Kittle. The 6-foot-6 Stanford product caught 119 receptions for 1,201 yards and four touchdowns, and NFL.com's Lance Zierlein compared him to Dawson Knox.

Both Boston and Roush a safe picks but luxury picks that upgrade the 49ers offense and prepares them for the future as well.

This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 49ers add two pass-catchers in new 3-round mock draft

Ospreys full-back Jack Walsh could leave the region at the end of the season with interest growing from clubs outside Wales, including French side Montauban.

Walsh, who can also operate at fly-half, has been one of Ospreys' most consistent performers over the past two seasons, form which has attracted interest from a number of clubs.

Ospreys head coach Mark Jones confirmed the region is in talks with Walsh but acknowledged the 26-year-old is weighing up his future.

"At the moment he's assessing his options — staying versus going — and we're waiting for clarity on that," said Jones.

"We've been clear with our stance and the contract we've put in front of him shows how much we value him.

"But he's got to make a decision himself and I fully appreciate that he has to explore that in his own time, we'll see what happens over the next days and weeks."

French club Montauban, who will be relegated from the Top 14 this season, are understood to be leading the race should Walsh decide to move on, with the club already making early recruitment moves as they plan for an immediate return to the top flight.

Born in America and raised in Australia, Walsh joined Ospreys in 2022 and has become an important part of the squad, featuring regularly at both full-back and fly-half.

Had Walsh remained in Wales, he would have become eligible for Steve Tandy's national side on residency before the 2027 World Cup, but a move abroad would end those qualification hopes.

• Uncertainty remains for Scarlets and Ospreys

Ospreys playing down Chamberlain links

Ospreys have confirmed Wales wing Tom Rogers will join from Scarlets next season, providing an option at full-back should Walsh depart, along with existing squad member Iestyn Hopkins.

They will also require fly-half cover and have been linked with Newcastle Red Bulls' Boeta Chamberlain as a possible replacement.

Jones said the region are exploring a number of options given the uncertainty around Walsh's future, but moved to play down speculation surrounding South African Chamberlain.

"He's not anybody we're looking at any more deeply than anybody else," said Jones.

"We're looking at lots of 10s because we don't know where the Jack Walsh situation is going to land.

"I'm not sure where the Chamberlain one has come from in terms of the headlines, but he's one of a number of players agents have sent across our desk."

Jones added financial considerations will also shape recruitment decisions: "We're doing our due diligence on all of them and seeing what's the best fit for us and what we can afford."

Ospreys boosted by Hardy re‑signing despite interest from elsewhere

While uncertainty remains over Walsh's future, Ospreys received a boost on Wednesday with scrum-half Kieran Hardy signing a new contract with the region.

The Wales international has impressed since arriving from Scarlets and establishing himself as a key figure in the squad.

Jones said securing Hardy's long-term future was a significant moment for the club.

"He's made a big impact since he's come into the team. I think he's scored 13 or 14 tries for us in a short space of time," said Jones.

"We knew we were signing a very good player when we got him through the door and that's proved to be the case.

"He's added his own style to the team when he's played, he's pushed the other nines as well and he's added to the mix that we've got."

Hardy had attracted interest from a number of clubs, but Jones believes his decision to stay reflects the direction in which the team is heading.

"To keep a player of his quality, who was wanted by a lot of other teams… he's an international at the end of the day… it speaks volumes about the team, his team-mates and the environment we're trying to create here," said Jones.

"Hopefully that's a good indication of the Ospreys and why he wants to stay."

A surprisingly shaky semifinal evening for UCLA gymnastics has the Bruins leaving Fort Worth early after finishing in third place in the NCAA national semifinals.

An early fall from Jordan Chiles followed by some wobbly vaults in the final rotations were too much to overcome as No. 13 seed Minnesota stunned in their final rotation on bars and national favorite Oklahoma was steady throughout. The top two teams advanced to the championship on Saturday.

The No. 4 seed Bruins scored a 197.2750, 0.1875 behind Oklahoma and Minnesota and just ahead of No. 9 seed Arkansas, which was also eliminated. UCLA was the only top-four seed that didn’t advance.

Chiles took the individual floor title with a 9.9750 score, her second NCAA floor championship.

UCLA (18-3) trailed the second spot by 0.1250 after one rotation after Chiles’ miscue cost the Bruins on bars and they had to count Nola Matthews’ 9.7625, the lowest score to count for any team in the first rotation.

Read more:UCLA gymnastics focused on delivering Bruins' next national title

Chiles wrapped up the Bruins’ first rotation with a handstand fall off the tall uneven bar to begin and had to restart her routine, costing her a half-point reduction. She won the bars championships in 2023 and 2025.

It was her first fall in any event since she fell on bars in February 2025.

The 9.3625 was dropped from UCLA’s bars score and took Chiles out of the all-around chase early in the night.

Oklahoma led the first rotation with a stellar run on vault, with no scores counted lower than 9.9375.

The Bruins didn’t bounce back quickly on beam in the second rotation. After a strong performance from freshman Tiana Sumanasekera, she didn’t stick the dismount and finished with 9.8250, the lowest score.

Chiles, though, did rebound with a clean beam and dismount for a 9.9500 score to get the Bruins back in it. Senior Ciena Alipio concluded the rotation at 9.9375, but UCLA remained 0.0750 away from advancing with a near-flawless Minnesota floor set.

Luckily for the Bruins, the next in the rotation was their best event: floor.

Sophomore Mika Webster-Longin landed a 9.8875 to put the Bruins just a hair out of second and Sumanasekera put them narrowly ahead of Minnesota near the end of the rotation.

Ashlee Sullivan’s 9.9375 routine put the Bruins in first place for the first time all day and Chiles closed it out with a 9.9750, the highest floor score of the day and had the Bruins hanging on by 0.2250.

“Everything we talk about right now is it’s not over till it’s over,” Alipio told ESPN after the floor rotation. “We’re embracing that today.”

Katelyn Rosen did not land her vault and got a 9.2125 that the Bruins had to overcome in the final rotation. Webster-Longin also wobbled on her dismount and her 9.5875 had to count.

Riley Jenkins and Sullivan recovered, and Chiles landed a 9.8875, but it was far too late. That ended Chiles’ career at UCLA and the Bruins are still without a national title since 2018.

LSU and Florida advanced earlier in the day and will face off with Oklahoma and Minnesota in the Final Four.

Sign up for UCLA Unlocked for big game takeaways, recruiting buzz and more UCLA sports insights.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

The Texas Tech Red Raiders had a defense to remember in 2025. That side of the ball carried the Red Raiders into the College Football Playoff before an ineffective offense ended any chance at the national championship. While everyone knows about All-Americans David Bailey, Jacob Rodriguez and Lee Hunter, Texas Tech featured other great players, too.

One of those players was defensive tackle Skyler Gill-Howard. Gill-Howard was a 6-foot-1, 280-pound defensive tackle prospect who began his college career at Upper Iowa before transferring to Eastern Illinois and finishing up at Texas Tech. In his only season for the Red Raiders, Gill-Howard started the first six games at defensive tackle, recording 13 tackles, including 2.5 for loss, 0.5 sacks and an interception that he returned for a touchdown.

Gill-Howard hasn't received the same attention from NFL scouts as his more famous teammates, but teams do like him. Tanner Phifer of XPAND Sports recently revealed that the Washington Commanders hosted Gill-Howard on a top-30 visit. This visit hasn't been confirmed by Washington, which held a group top-30 event earlier this week at Topgolf in Ashburn, which featured several top prospects, such as Sonny Styles, Caleb Downs and others.

Washington's interest in Gill-Howard is interesting, considering his size and Relative Athletic Score. GM Adam Peters often targets players with a high RAS score, but Gill-Howard has a 5.61 score. That number is so low due to his size.

Skyler Gill-Howard is a DT prospect in the 2026 draft class. He scored a 5.61 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 997 out of 2270 DT from 1987 to 2026.https://t.co/91eIhVFvOupic.twitter.com/Dq3DoYtDCf

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) April 5, 2026

Why would Washington be looking to draft an undersized defensive tackle if it plans on employing more 3-4 fronts? That's a fair question. But, remember, the Commanders also hosted undersized Navy star defensive tackle Landon Robinson in a private workout — not a top-30 visit.

This is an interesting visit for Washington, especially considering Gill-Howard is more of a Day 3 prospect and the position currently has solid depth.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders hosted Texas Tech defender on pre-draft visit

She is Helen Ward's "favourite footballer in the world" and would be the first player selected in Angharad James' all-time Wales team.

Kath Morgan, meanwhile, describes her as the "little Welsh girl from Barry" who grew up to be world class.

Sophie Ingle is poised to win Wales cap number 150 when Rhian Wilkinson's team take on Albania in a Women's World Cup qualifier in Elbasan on Saturday.

As Ingle reaches another landmark in her storied career, those who have worked and played alongside her are unanimous in their praise for her contribution to the Welsh cause.

"I remember her when she first went up to London [to join Chelsea], committing herself to playing with world-class players," says former Wales captain Morgan.

"But [former Chelsea boss] Emma Hayes will tell you, by the end of her time there, Sophie was that world-class player.

"She's Welsh, she's come from us and she's ours. We couldn't be more proud."

'My favourite footballer in the world'

Ingle has come a long way since beginning her junior career with Vale Wanderers, a boys' team in Barry.

She was forced to give up the sport when aged 12 because Football Association of Wales (FAW) rules meant she could no longer play with the boys.

Thankfully for Welsh football, Ingle returned to the pitch when her Vale Wanderers coach set up a girls' team when she was 14.

She then played for Dinas Powys Ladies and Cardiff City Ladies before joining Chelsea for the first of two spells in 2012.

By that stage, Ingle was an established Wales international, having made her senior debut in a 2-1 World Cup qualifying defeat to Azerbaijan three years earlier, only a matter of weeks after her 18th birthday.

Ward scored Wales' goal in Baku, with Ingle coming off the bench.

"It was a horrible game, horrible pitch, but this kid just made it look like she'd been doing it her whole life," Ward remembers.

"She's just a top player… technique is unbelievable, the way she reads a game, the way she can find a pass.

"She's my favourite footballer in the world."

Adrian Tucker was the manager who gave Ingle her first cap, in an era when the landscape was very different in women's football.

"She was good technically but she was also really good on the physical side, which was a really big thing at that time," he says.

"Did I think she would go on to win 150 caps? In 2009, I didn't think Wales would play 150 games. We were struggling to get five games a season.

"But since then there has been a boom in women's football and Sophie has been on the crest of that wave."

Captaincy brought belief

Ingle was just 23 when, in 2015, then Wales boss Jayne Ludlow made the bold decision to give her the captain's armband ahead of Jess Fishlock.

She would lead Wales for nine years before opting to stand down shortly after Rhian Wilkinson took charge of the national side in 2024.

"As a youngster she was a silent assassin - quiet, calm, nothing bothered her and her football did the talking," says Morgan, who retired before Ingle joined Wales' senior squad but worked with her as a coach.

"Then when Jayne Ludlow made her captain, that brought something different to Sophie. It heightened her confidence and belief in her own ability."

Ward believes Ingle's early elevation to the leadership role says something about her character.

"Who gets the captaincy at 23 other than Sophie?" says Ward, scorer of 44 goals in 105 Wales appearances.

"She's never been a shouter or a screamer but she's a leader in her own way. A top person, top professional and one of the most down-to-earth people you'll ever meet."

'Right at the top' in list of Welsh greats

Ingle's first stint at Chelsea lasted only a year, as she moved on to Bristol Academy and then Liverpool.

In 2018, she made the key decision to return to Chelsea, whose status had changed after Roman Abramovich began investing in the Blues' women's team.

During seven years with the London heavyweights, Ingle won five Women's Super League (WSL) titles, three FA Cups and two League Cups and played in the 2021 Champions League final.

At one stage she held the record for WSL appearances, with her Chelsea success helping Ingle land a place in the Team GB squad at the 2020 Olympics, where she was the sole Welsh player.

With Wales, meanwhile, Ingle continued to rack up caps, though she would have even more but for an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury which meant she did not play throughout the 2024-25 season.

Ingle battled through rehabilitation to make Wilkinson's Euro 2025 squad, though the knee issue meant she managed only one substitute appearance in Switzerland as Wales featured at a major women's tournament for the first time.

"The way she's come back from her ACL, I'm so proud of her," says Seattle Reign midfielder James, Ingle's successor as Wales skipper.

"She's the best team-mate you could have and she's led this group for such a long time. She's just a great person to have around, both on and off the field."

Wales said farewell to the player who is widely regarded as their finest female footballer when Fishlock retired from international duty last October.

James, though, says Ingle should be "right at the top" of any list of Welsh greats.

"I think if you're going to write the first person on your team sheet, Sophie's on there for me," she says.

Versatility is one of Ingle's various assets. She is best known as a midfielder but is equally at home in central defence, while there were also stints operating on the flanks in her younger days.

Given Ingle's humility, it is hard to imagine Ingle complaining wherever she is asked to play.

In the wake of Euro 2025, some wondered whether she might join Fishlock and fellow veteran Kayleigh Barton by calling time on her Wales career.

But having signed for Bristol City on a two-year deal after leaving Chelsea last summer, she is still around and still showing her class at international level.

"She's fantastic… I mean, what a player," says Wales head coach Wilkinson.

"Sophie would have retired if she didn't think she was going to keep getting better. She's that type of person – she wants to push herself.

"Credit to her, she's left one of the top clubs in the world and gone to a good team, but obviously one who play in a league down.

"She just wants the minutes, she wants to be sharp and you [continue to see] probably one of the best ever to play for Wales dominating at whatever age she is."

• Wales' Ingle back to best after injury woe
• Wales must take care of own business - Wilkinson
• Cain scores twice as Wales ease to Albania win

A double-century in sight?

Ingle will turn 35 in September. Inevitably, therefore, questions will be asked about how much longer she can play for Wales.

Morgan says it will be a personal decision which will depend on Ingle's "life commitments outside of football", but reckons she could continue playing at the back for her country for another five years.

As Ingle prepares to become only the second Welsh footballer to pass the 150-mark, Ward believes she will have Fishlock's Wales record of 166 caps in her sights.

"I wouldn't be surprised if she pushes on maybe to 200," Ward says.

"She's the sort of player that - and I don't mean any disrespect by this - doesn't rely on pace, so she hasn't got that to lose from her game.

"She'll always be able to read the game and she'll always be able to pass the ball, so as long as she wants to do it, I think she'll be able to do it."

But how does the woman herself view things?

Ingle is playing regularly at club level and remains a key figure for Wales, for whom the trip to Albania is the next step on the long qualification path they hope will lead to a first Women's World Cup.

"I feel good, I feel fresh. I just try and get on the ball as much as I can and play the effective passes," Ingle said after Tuesday's comfortable home victory over the Albanians.

"If Wales qualified for the World Cup, it would be amazing."

Shaun Harvey says the proudest feedback he regularly hears as a result of Wrexham's success is that clubs wish they were like the Red Dragons.

The former English Football League (EFL) chief executive and current Wrexham director has been pivotal in bridging the gap between Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac and the club's day-to-day staff since becoming involved at Stok Cae Ras.

Wrexham have gained three successive promotions and remain in the hunt to secure a play-off spot in the Championship this season.

And Harvey says the trials and tribulations of his past experiences in the EFL have been vital in ensuring he has been able to play his part in the club's rapid rise from the fifth-tier National League.

"All that experience is what goes into helping Wrexham on its journey and what in parts had an influence on back-to-back-to-back promotions, seeing how the club's operated and run, how it positions itself," he told the BBC's Sacked In The Morning podcast.

"The proudest thing I hear now is, 'I wish our club was like Wrexham'. Wrexham didn't exist in that format until Rob and Ryan took over.

"The Supporters Trust before had done a brilliant job in keeping the club alive, and all that experience has come together to help try and create, alongside Phil [Parkinson], the players, a lot of other people, the story that people are looking on now and saying, 'I wish there was more Wrexhams'."

• Wrexham must not gift top-six spot to rivals - Parkinson
• Listen to Wrexham interviews, news and discussion on BBC Sounds

Reynolds and Mac have been central to Wrexham's enormous growth over the past five years.

The club's revenue has surged from £1.48m during 2020-21 - the season in which Reynolds and Mac completed their takeover - to £33.3m in the latest financial year.

They are also the brains behind the immensely popular Welcome To Wrexham documentary - which has played a significant role in boosting the club's profile and revenue streams.

But Harvey says the duo's biggest attribute has been their willingness and eagerness to delegate responsibility to those more qualified to carry out certain tasks within the club.

"They've never tried to be anything that they're not, and they've always been genuine to what they are, and that is two individuals who see themselves as custodians of the football club, who want the best for the football club and know that the best way of achieving that is by putting the right people in place to allow it to live," Harvey said.

"Rob and Ryan are the club's best cheerleaders. They are the face of the club, which takes pressure off everywhere else.

Harvey says everyone else benefits from the role Reynolds and Mac have chosen to take.

"The biggest beneficiaries of this whole Wrexham experience is the local community," added the 56-year-old executive.

"I've had five wonderful years there, we're still going and we're still successful.

"Phil's into his fifth season as manager as well. We're all loving the experience, but the long-term benefit to the community is actually what will really signify, in the end, how successful this whole quest has been."

Despite the glorious achievements during their tenure as owners to date, Harvey says there was some scepticism around the actors intentions when they first showed an interest in the club.

But the former Leeds United CEO says the pair swiftly nullified his concerns.

"I think the first meetings with Rob and Ryan, you knew it was going to be different, and like a lot of people, I was only concerned that they were in this for the long run," Harvey explained.

"Now, five years in, it's a complete irrelevance. But at that stage, what I never wanted to be party to was getting the hopes and dreams up of a community in north Wales, and all of a sudden them being dropped and moved on.

"That was the only question I ever asked Rob and Ryan. How long are you in this for? And we've got to make sure that whatever happens, we leave the club in a better place than it is today.

"Once we got that principle established, it was easy."

• Does it matter if Wrexham don't get promoted this season?
• Latest Wrexham news, analysis and fan views

Wrexham currently sit four points adrift of sixth-placed Hull City with four matches left to play in the regular season.

And Harvey - who was speaking after his side's 5-1 loss to Southampton on 7 April - says the internal view has always been that the Red Dragons could at the very least compete for a top six place this term.

"We've probably surpassed most peoples' expectations. The players always believed. Generally, commentators from the outside looking in felt survival would be a good outcome this season," he said.

"I think the aim at the start of the season, at the risk of sitting on the fence, was to finish as high as we could.

"We knew we'd invested well, we knew we'd brought players in of good experience and they had the ability to get us up in and around that play-off area."

Former Cardiff City defender Danny Gabbison says there is "much more to come" from "super talented" Bluebirds youngster Dylan Lawlor.

Lawlor has featured 28 times for Cardiff in League One this season in their bid to make an instant return to the Championship.

The 20-year-old also featured regularly for Wales in the later stages of their unsuccessful campaign to reach this summer's World Cup finals.

"He's a talent, the boy," Gabbidon told BBC Sport Wales.

"I think the biggest thing that's impressed me about him, having met him a couple of times, is his attitude and his application and his professionalism.

"I think we've all seen the talent that he has so early in his career.

"He makes the game look really easy at times. And defending, you don't see many young centre-backs that play with his level of maturity, so young.

"Obviously, he's still learning. He's got a long way to go."

A product of the Cardiff City academy, Caerphilly-born Lawlor made his senior debut for the club against Aston Villa in the FA Cup in February 2025.

He made his league debut against Norwich City in the Championship in May 2024, followed by a first senior Wales cap and a man-of-the-match display in a 1-0 win over Kazakhstan in September the same year.

"The way he's stepped onto the international scene has been really impressive," added Gabbidon, who was a Cardiff City player when he was first capped by Wales in 2002.

"It reminds me a little bit of myself.

"I'm not trying to boast or anything, but I had a similar kind of journey where I was playing League One, League Two and stepped into international football and found it difficult at first, but was able to show I could perform on that level. It's been very similar for Dylan.

"He's had a fantastic breakthrough season and he's only just getting started. There's so much more to come from him. He's a super talented player.

"My only worry is Cardiff City keeping hold of him in the summer, because I think there's going to be a lot of big clubs after him."

• Who is Cardiff and Wales' sensation Dylan Lawlor?

Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said medical evaluations have become one of the most challenging parts of the draft process, citing a growing number of injury concerns among prospects and increased difficulty projecting long-term durability.

DeCosta also described the emotional weight of receiving daily medical updates at the NFL Scouting Combine.

"In a perfect world, you wouldn't be drafting players that have injuries. I think, in Emery [Jones Jr.'s] case, we certainly knew he had the injury, [and] we knew he was going to have the surgery. We understood that where we were picking in the third round, he was clearly the best player for us. And [we] loved his game. I had a chance to see him at the Senior Bowl, but generally, if you had the chance [with] all things being equal, you'd just draft guys that were totally healthy. As I said, it's getting tougher and tougher to do that because players are getting older, and more and more guys are having surgery, and more and more guys have medical concerns. And that's a challenge. And there's a lot of those guys in the draft every single year, and it's gotten worse. So, we have to find [information] through talking to our doctors and trainers and other people, we have to have a comfort [level] with certain types of injuries that guys are going to have. You're not going to draft 11 draft picks that don't have any injuries at all or haven't had any injuries. It's just not going to happen. In a physical game, when you're playing football for as many years as these guys have played at very high levels of football, guys are going to have some wear and tear on their bodies. And so, I think when you think about that, then you're looking at personality and you're looking at all these other qualities that might help a guy kind of navigate injuries and pain and different things like that – surgeries and all these other things. So yes, it's a hard part of the business, especially with draft prep, is sorting through [that information]. At the combine, every morning when I wake up, I have an envelope that's been slid under my door, and it's all the medical grades from the past day. And I freaking hate that day. I hate opening up that envelope because I'm going to see players that we really like that have received bad medical grades. And I always want to wait to open up that envelope until after I have my coffee so that I can just be relaxed a little bit more and just not stress out so much. But I see that envelope, and I'm like, 'Here we go again.' And inevitably, there's going to be between five to 10 players that have pretty serious medical injuries or conditions or various things that we have to sort through, and we usually take a few guys off the board. And it's just a part of the business that we're in."

For Baltimore, DeCosta made clear that medical evaluation remains one of the most consequential and stressful parts of the pre-draft process.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Eric DeCosta says draft injuries are harder to avoid each year

ANDERSON, MO. — World Series Champion Christian Colón was announced as McDonald County’s next Head Baseball Coach on April 10. Now, less than a week later, the former big leaguer addressed his new squad for the first time at a ribbon cutting ceremony to unveil the program’s new press box.

“These athletes could benefit from a voice that, yeah, I’ve been through a lot of good memories and also some tough ones,” Colón said.

Colón had an 11-year playing career in Major League Baseball after being drafted No. 4 overall in the 2010 MLB Draft, going on to play with the Kansas City Royals, Miami Marlins, Atlanta Braves, New York Mets, Cincinnati Reds and Toronto Blue Jays.

Following his time as a player, Colón gained coaching experience at the minor league level with the Northwest Arkansas Naturals (AA), Arkansas Travelers (AA) and KC Monarchs (Independent).

“He’s driven by purpose,” Athletic Director Bo Bergen said. “And, you know, I told people it’s nothing that we could really offer him. The only thing we could offer him was a chance to work with our kids, and that was more than enough for him.”

“He’s going to jump in and he’s going to be a part of this,” McDonald County Superintendent Eric Findley said. “He won’t miss a beat. He won’t miss a step at all. The people will love him like I did whenever I first came in here. Like they do anybody that’s a part of the community, he’s going to fit in perfectly.”

Colón has accrued several accolades throughout his playing career, but notably found his way into the hearts of many local Royals fans by delivering a game-winning hit in Game 5 of the 2015 Fall Classic.

“This state and the Royals have meant a lot to me and my family,” Colón said. “And if I can use what they did for me and how they helped me, if I can use it to someone else for other kids, that’s all I want to do is just pass it forward.”

Throughout the hiring process, Bergen said he was immediately drawn to not only the resume Colón boasts, but the character and values he possesses.

Colón echoed that sentiment, saying he and Bergen hit it off immediately throughout their initial conversations and their visions for the baseball program aligned off the bat.

“It’s a big responsibility. One that I don’t take lightly, and I’m looking forward to that,” Colón said.

McDonald County High School Baseball currently sits 5-11 overall at roughly the midway point of the 2026 season, a significant improvement from a 2-23 overall mark in 2025.

Colón will have his chance to return Mustangs Baseball to its winning ways beginning next season, though he spoke with the entire team for the first time at Thursday’s ribbon cutting ceremony.

“That was my message to them, just meet me in the middle,” Colón said. “Let’s get to work. I’ll meet you where you’re at. I’ll help you in every way I can. And I want to be here.”

Colón is expected to begin offseason work with Mustangs Baseball in July.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com.

Former Clemson wide receiver Jerry Butler and one-time USC quarterback Todd Ellis were among the five enshrined in the South Carolina Football Hall Of Fame Class of 2025 Thursday night in Greenville.

Butler made what’s referred to by Clemson fans as “The Catch” in the 1977 Clemson/Carolina game and the Ware Shoals native then went on to play in the NFL for several seasons with the Buffalo Bills.

Ellis was a four-year starter for South Carolina in the late ’80s, throwing for nearly 10,000 yards.

Former longtime NFL wide receiver A.J. Green, a Summerville native who played collegiately at Georgia, his fellow Charleston area native Dexter Coakley, an Appalachian State alum who played for nearly a decade with the Cowboys, and Union native and former Green Bay Packer Bob Jeter were also inducted.

Clemson linebacker Sammy Brown, who had 107 tackles in his sophomore season, was awarded the Blanchard-Rogers Trophy, which the Hall gives to the Palmetto State’s top college player.

Emily Beamer, wife of USC head football coach Shane Beamer, received a humanitarian award from the Hall as well.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS.

TYLER, Texas (KETK) — The UT Tyler Patriots returned home on Thursday to start their final regular season series at Irwin Field, as they hosted Oklahoma Christian.

The Pats’ offense came alive down in the stretch in game one, as they knocked off the Eagles 13-3.

These two will square off again for a doubleheader on Friday, starting at 3:00 p.m., before they finish their series on Saturday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Ben Reifel became the first middle school in Sioux Falls to host a Unified basketball game on Thursday afternoon.

The Bison hosted the Washington Warriors Best Buddies for their inaugural matchup. The goal of the Unified sports program is to give students with disabilities opportunities to participate in sporting events alongside their peers. Ben Reifel teachers and staff say the program has paid dividends both on and off the floor since its launch.

“The best thing is when they see each other now in the hallways, there’s not that divide between students with disabilities and the general population,” special education teacher Desiree Burggraaf said. “They know each others names, they’re giving each other high fives, fist bumps, shouting at each other.”

The Bison came out victorious on the floor too, with a 23-22 win over the Warriors.

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

The First round of the MHSAA Baseball and Softball playoffs are underway and the Pisgah Dragons hosted games on Thursday. Baseball beat Magee 11-1 in 6 innings of play while the Softball team beat Jefferson Davis County 9-1. Baseball highlights below.

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AUGUSTANA) — Augustana split its conference doubleheader Thursday afternoon at Bowden Field, opening with a 6-0 win over Southwest Minnesota State before falling 2-1 in the nightcap.

Augustana 6, Southwest Minnesota State 0
Desi Cuevas led the Vikings with three hits and two RBI while Norah Christiansen added a home run and two RBI to pace the Augustana offense. Claire Wynja collected two hits and an RBI, and Teya Speltz (5-5) was outstanding in the circle, tossing a complete-game shutout while allowing just three hits and striking out one.

After a scoreless opening frame, Augustana broke through in the second inning. Christiansen led off the inning by sending a pitch over the left-field fence for a solo home run to give the Vikings a 1-0 lead.

The Vikings added to their advantage in the third inning with a two-out rally. Andrea Cain tripled down the right-field line before Cuevas followed with a single. Wynja then delivered an RBI single through the right side to score Cuevas, and Sidney Smart capped the inning with an RBI double to push the lead to 3-0.

Augustana continued to apply pressure in the fourth inning. Ella Cooper and Susie Tollefson each singled to start the frame before Cain loaded the bases with a base hit. Cuevas came through again, ripping a double down the left-field line to score two runs and extend the lead to 5-0.

The Vikings added their final run in the fifth inning as Stella Harber worked a walk and later came around to score on an RBI double from Christiansen, making it 6-0.

Speltz took care of the rest, keeping the Mustangs off the scoreboard throughout the game. The right-hander scattered three hits across seven innings and worked around the only walk she allowed, as the Augustana defense backed her throughout.

Augustana finished with 13 hits in the game, with Cuevas, Wynja, Christiansen and Cooper each recording multi-hit performances.

Southwest Minnesota State 2, Augustana 1 
Southwest Minnesota State struck early and held off a late Augustana push to earn a split of the doubleheader with a 2-1 victory.

The Mustangs plated both of their runs in the second inning, using a double, single and a wild pitch to take a 2-0 lead.

Augustana threatened throughout but broke through in the sixth inning. Kierra Lubovich tripled down the right-field line and came home on a sacrifice from Sidney Smart to cut the deficit to 2-1.

The Vikings were unable to complete the comeback in the seventh, as Southwest Minnesota State retired the side to secure the win.

Lubovich, Ella Cooper and Susie Tollefson each recorded a hit for Augustana. Helene Krage (8-7) went the distance in the circle, allowing two runs on six hits while striking out one.

Up Next
Augustana shifts its attention to Sunday afternoon as it heads across town to face Sioux Falls at 4/6 p.m. 

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — No. 3 Harrisburg and O’Gorman both earned big wins on Thursday afternoon.

The Tigers pulled off the upset of No. 1 Jefferson in a 7-3 contest. Kade Wede earned the win for Harrisburg with 13 strikeouts, five hits, and one run across six innings. Bryson Esser dominated at the plate for the Tigers with two home runs and 4 RBI in the win.

The Knights also put up seven runs in their 7-2 win over Roosevelt. Isaac Tobin struck out five and walked four, allowing two hits and no runs over four and two-thirds innings. Bennett Duncan recorded two runs and two RBI in the win.

O’Gorman will host Fargo Davies on Friday at 6pm and Harrisburg travels to Watertown for a two-game series with the Arrows. The Cavaliers and the Rough Riders will face each other on Saturday at noon.

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

Paul DePodesta came prepared with more than remarks.

The Colorado Rockies president of baseball operations offered a grin and then a joke and then a laugh. Why not? He’s eager to see what kind of stamina he has; or how much is still there.

The 53-year-old remembers how long a season can be. The spring training. The games. The travel. The scouting. The deadlines. The hours.

But recollections — after spending the past decade working for the NFL’s Cleveland Browns — and actually experiencing all those things aren’t the same. DePodesta knows that. He’s still excited by all of it.

“It’s been really good to be back,” DePodesta said Thursday. “Not only in the big league stuff, but the minor league stuff and some of the amateur scouting stuff. … Looking forward to getting through the calendar, at least one full time, and I think it’ll slow down for us.”

But right now? Well, there isn’t any time to stop. There’s too much to do and too much to see. Players, coaches, farm system coordinators. There are already plans to log plenty of miles. And not just in terms of altitude.

Along with the Rockies’ base in Denver, there have been — and will be — trips to Albuquerque, where DePodesta was on hand Thursday to see the Isotopes rally for a 9-5 comeback win over Oklahoma City. A day game that saw Vimael Machín drive in three runs, reach base three times and score twice, Blaine Crim hit a game-tying single in the seventh and Adael Amador knock a season-high three hits, including the go-ahead single in the eighth.

Along with Albuquerque, DePodesta is planning visits to Connecticut, Washington state, California, Arizona and even Boca Chica in the Dominican Republic to see the organizations’ other farm system teams.

It’s part of the rebuild DePodesta, the man who rose to prominence during the Oakland Athletics’ Moneyball era, has been put in charge of to align the Rockies with Denver’s other major professional teams.

It’s a large task, and a difficult one.

While the Denver Nuggets and the Colorado Avalanche have each won a championship in the past five years, and the Denver Broncos were on the cusp of a Super Bowl appearance this past season, the Rockies have been stuck in a quagmire. One Colorado seems unable to get out of.

All this comes while playing home games a mile above sea level and in the same division as the free-spending Dodgers — according to the MLB commissioner’s office, the Dodgers spent a record $515 million in its World Series-winning 2025 season — as well as the San Francisco Giants, San Diego Padres and Arizona Diamondbacks, each of whom have had spurts of success.

DePodesta has his work cut out for him as he takes over a franchise that seems to have plenty of drawbacks and certainly detractors. The Rockies, after all, had the worst run differential (-424) and starting pitcher ERA (6.65) in the majors last season.

The Rockies are coming off three straight 100-loss seasons. Last year’s 119 tied the 2003 Detroit Tigers for the third most in the modern era. In its 33 years of existence, the franchise has pulled together three consecutive winning seasons only one time: 1995-97.

“I think we have to be ourselves,” DePodesta said. “If you look at those different situations around our division, they’ve all done it a little differently and yet, they’ve all been pretty successful teams. We have to focus on ourselves ultimately.

“… But there are things that we’re going to have to do that will be unique to Denver, unique to playing in altitude, that will ultimately help us be successful.”

How quickly that uniqueness comes to fruition, or what it will look like will be determined by the “groundwork” DePodesta is trying to set. Really, it’s a philosophy that sees the entirety of the organization moving in a singular direction no matter the level, no matter the players, no matter the coaches.

In other words, everything is intertwined and needs to be treated as such. It certainly couldn’t hurt to try and the Rockies don’t have a lot to lose.

“That’s actually what we want it to be is one organization, from the big leagues down to the Dominican, and even into all of our scouting operations,” said DePodesta, who views a big league roster as 50 to 60 players deep. “We’re really looking for it to be a unified operation. So the way we do things in Denver is going to be the way we do things in Albuquerque and the way we’re going to do in Boca Chica. And that’s something I think is really important for us to try to get right.”

It’s why the trips to the various minor league affiliates — like he did with Albuquerque on Thursday — to check on things and communicate has been and will continue to be important.

The Rockies know something different needs to happen. DePodesta just needs to see it through. It’s just a matter of how quickly all that past stamina comes back.

Oh, and how quickly the tangible results present themselves in Denver.

“That’s what everybody’s after is trying to find good young players,” DePodesta said. “Those are foundational players for the organization. We feel like we have that opportunity here with some of the players we have coming through the system, even with some of the players already in Denver. But we still need to actually make that happen.”

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

LOVB Salt Lake is one win away from its first championship.

LOVB Salt Lake defeated LOVB Austin 22-25, 25-21, 22-25, 27-25, 16-14 in Game 1 of the 2026 LOVB championship series on Thursday in Long Beach, California. LOVB Austin now must win Game 2 on Saturday to force a decisive golden set to keep its back-to-back title hopes alive, otherwise LOVB Salt Lake will hoist its first Tiffany championship trophy.

LOVB Austin and LOVB Salt Lake entered the championship series on equal footing. Both teams finished tied for third place in the regular season with identical 10-10 records. Both clubs split their four meetings during the regular season and each club survived a fifth, golden set in the semifinals to advance to the championships.

Like both semifinal rounds, Game 1 of the championship series also came down to a golden set. The decisive fifth set featured nine ties between both clubs. LOVB Austin had a 13-11 lead, but LOVB Salt Lake closed the match on a 6-1 run to win and deliver a blow to the defending champions.

LOVB Salt Lake outside hitter Alexa Gray said her squad had to get "a little bit of jitters out," but praised the team's resilience in coming back to force a fifth set and ultimately win the game.

"I don't think it was our best volleyball," said Gray, who finished with a game-high 28 points, 24 kills and seven blocks. "But I thought we stuck together as a group and did what we could do even through the weird, but just really proud of how we stayed in it and fought."

LOVB Salt Lake racked up 32 errors in the win, compared to 22 for LOVB Austin. LOVB Austin had an advantage in blocks (19-14) and Aces (7-1), but LOVB Salt Lake was able to piece together a run when it mattered most.

The evening started with a special guest. Zhuri James, the daughter of Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James and Savannah James, delivered the honorary first serve ahead of Game 1 of the LOVB championship on Thursday.

Reach USA TODAY National Women’s Sports Reporter Cydney Henderson at chenderson@gannett.com and follow her on X at @CydHenderson.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: LOVB Salt Lake takes 1-0 lead over LOVB Austin in championship series

College football recruiting experts are calling the class that BYU added last December the best in school history.

It was led, of course, by four-star quarterback Ryder Lyons of Folsom, California, and four-star tight end Brock Harris, from St. George’s Pine View High in southern Utah.

Those highly regarded players are currently on missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Orlando, Florida (Lyons), and Spokane, Washington (Harris), and both have said that they will return in time to join the BYU football program before the 2027 season.

“I loved the way the team worked, and we had some new faces come in … who are going to be great contributors to our team. … Even some true freshmen will play. They are good enough to play.”

BYU coach Kalani Sitake

Other signees from that 2026 class that 247Sports ranked as the 18th best in the country, and second best in the Big 12, are also on church missions or will be serving shortly, most notably Olympus High three-star linebacker Adam Bywater, brother of former BYU standout linebacker Ben Bywater.

However, a large number of those signees have already enrolled at BYU and participated in the recently completed 15 spring football practices. The only player in that group who has yet to join the team is Antonio Johnson, a 6-foot-4, 170-pound cornerback from Fort Worth, Texas.

One of the signs that this truly is an extraordinary signing class for head coach Kalani Sitake is that several of the prospects who signed last December could end up playing right away, Sitake and coordinators Kelly Poppinga and Aaron Roderick said when camp wrapped up on April 2.

“I loved the way the team worked, and we had some new faces come in … who are going to be great contributors to our team,” Sitake said. “… Even some true freshmen will play. They are good enough to play.”

A lot of the newcomers the head coach was talking about come from the transfer portal. Guys such as Oregon receiver Kyler Kasper, USC tight end Walker Lyons, Oregon tight end Roger Saleapaga and Cal linebacker Cade Uluave have been profiled by the Deseret News in recent weeks and surely will make their marks this fall, along with returning stars LJ Martin, Bear Bachmeier, Sione Moa, Faletau Satuala and Keanu Tanuvasa.

Returned missionaries such as linebacker/defensive end Adney Reid, quarterback Enoch Watson and receiver Jett Nelson could also see the field, although generally it takes players a bit of time before they are back to full strength and fitness after missionary service.

Then there are the true freshmen. Up to a half-dozen, maybe more, could log playing time this fall, and not because the roster of returning players is thin. As Sitake said, these new, young guys are good.

Going off what coaches said about them in spring camp, and what was observed by media members, the list of true freshmen who could play right away includes offensive lineman Bott Mulitalo, linebacker Braxton Lindsey, receiver Legend Glasker, running back Devaughn Eka and athletes Kennan Pula and Jaron Pula, twin brothers.

“What’s been different this year is having all the high school kids that are already with us now,” Sitake said. “Every one of them has been enrolled with us early, and got here in January, except for Antonio Johnson. He’s joining us in June. So we got a jump start on it, and that’s huge for them and their development.

“There is a huge upside to them. There is no ceiling, so we got to push it, and see how far we can get these guys to improve physically, mentally, spiritually and in all aspects of their life,” Sitake concluded.

Here’s a closer look at five of the freshmen BYU fans could get to know better this fall:

Receiver Legend Glasker

Hardly a day went by when media members were allowed to watch portions of spring practices when the Lehi High product didn’t make a remarkable play, or wasn’t mentioned by coaches as one of the standouts of camp. The three-star recruit, who is the cousin of BYU linebacker Isaiah Glasker, is pushing to make the six-receiver rotation that receivers coach Fesi Sitake likes to use.

“I know they are freshmen, but there are some ready-made guys who I think, if they stay on their trajectory, can fill in any type of void we have,” Fesi Sitake said, referring to Glasker and returned missionary Jett Nelson, among others.

Said Roderick: “I will probably forget about somebody, but Legend Glasker is somebody who has really stood out this spring. I expect him to contribute this fall.”

Glasker could also get on the field as a kick or punt returner. He caught 37 passes for 676 yards and nine touchdowns at Lehi as a senior and 37 passes for 781 yards and 11 touchdowns as a junior.

Linebacker/defensive end Braxton Lindsey

Freshmen who play defense seem to get on the field faster at BYU if they are in the secondary, but look for the 6-3, 230-pound Lindsey to push Tausili Akana and Nusi Taumoepeau for playing time at the rush defensive spot. A three-star recruit out of Arkansas, Lindsey had nine sacks his senior year of high school and also scored 14 touchdowns as a two-way player at Rogers High.

“Braxton has had a really solid spring, especially for a freshman coming in,” Poppinga said. “In this day and age of college football, it is really hard for a freshman to play. … But I think for what we’ve done, Braxton’s done a good job of (learning the defense), and I think he has a bright, bright future here. He’s made a ton of plays.”

Running back Devaughn Eka

Roderick has said that BYU will give superstar running back LJ Martin at least 20 carries a game, and probably five or so more touches beyond that. Next up is Sione Moa, who has been outstanding when he hasn’t been injured. Preston Rex is probably RB3 right now, especially after Jovesa Damuni was injured in spring camp.

After that, look for the 5-11, 190-pound Eka to move onto the depth chart and ahead of some guys who have been in the program for two or three years.

“Devaughn Eka has had a good spring, and I think he’s going to play for us this year,” Roderick said. “… With the skill position, it just comes back to proving to us that you deserve to play. Prove to us that you can do something that can help us win, and then it is up to us to find a way to use those guys in whatever personnel groupings we can come up with.”

A three-star recruit out of Lehi, Eka rushed for 3,276 yards and recorded 861 receiving yards in his prep career.

Safety Kennan Pula

BYU has a plethora of experience at the safety positions, led by junior Faletau Satuala and senior Raider Damuni. Sophomores Jarinn Kalama and Tommy Prassas are also in the mix. But don’t be surprised if the 6-2, 195-pound Pula doesn’t make his way onto the depth chart by the time the Cougars host Utah Tech on Sept. 5.

The athlete out of Lone Peak High, who can also play offense, like his twin brother Jaron, might be too good to keep off the field, Poppinga said two weeks ago. Kennan Pula was a four-star recruit who had offers from dozens of Power Four programs before flipping from Utah to BYU.

Kennan Pula made a one-handed interception in the 6A state football playoffs for Lone Peak that was so incredible that it went viral and was featured on ESPN’s Top Plays of the Day that day.

“Kennan Pula is another guy who has come along (quickly) that we’ve been really pleased with,” Poppinga said. In an interview with the Deseret News on April 3, Satuala said Pula was the most impressive newcomer in spring camp.

Offensive lineman Bott Mulitalo

BYU is pretty set at the tackle positions, with senior Andrew Gentry manning the right side and Washington transfer Paki Finau earning the starting spot on the left side. Look for the 6-5, 300-pound Mulitalo to get on the depth chart on one of those two sides before September rolls around.

The former four-star recruit from Lone Peak moved from defense to offense his senior season, so he is still a bit raw as an offensive lineman. But he’s massive, strong and athletic — much like former BYU tackle Kingsley Suamataia of the Kansas City Chiefs.

“Some of these new offensive linemen we got are really, really good,” said defensive tackle Keanu Tanuvasa. “Bott, man, he’s so strong, has great feet. He’s tough. He’s got some things to learn, but he’s already on the right track.”

Mike McCarthy will take over for Mike Tomlin as the Pittsburgh Steelers coach in 2026. The latter was a legend in the NFL and Steel City, continuing a dominant franchise in the AFC North.

Tomlin followed Bill Cowher as Steelers coach in 2007. He led the team to eight division titles and they appeared in the playoffs 13 times under his guidance.

How did the Steelers do in the first round of the NFL draft during the Tomlin era? A look at the picks and how they worked out, grade-wise.

2007

Player: Lawrence Timmons

College: Florida State

Position: LB

Grade: B

2008

Player: Rashard Mendenhall

College: Illinois

Position: RB

Grade: C+

2009

Player: Evander Hood

College: Missouri

Position: DT

Grade: C

2010

Player: Maurkice Pouncey

College: Florida

Position: C

Grade: A+

2011

Player: Cameron Heyward

College: Pitt

Position: DE

Grade: A+

2012

Player: David DeCastro

College: Stanford

Position: Guard

Grade: B+

2013

Player: Jarvis Jones

College: Georgia

Position: OLB

Grade: F

2014

Player: Ryan Shazier

College: Ohio State

Position: LB

Grade: Incomplete

2015

Player: Bud Dupree

College: Kentucky

Position: LB

Grade: B

2016

Player: Artie Burns

College: Miami

Position: CB

Grade: D-

2017

Player: T.J. Watt

College: Wisconsin

Position: LB

Grade: A+

2018

Player: Terrell Edmunds

College: Virginia Tech

Position: S

Grade: B-

2019

Player: Devin Bush

College: Michigan

Position: LB

Grade: C

2020

No pick

2021

Player: Najee Harris

College: Alabama

Position: RB

Grade: A

2022

Player: Kenny Pickett

College: Pitt

Position: QB

Grade: F

2023

Player: Broderick Jones

College: Georgia

Position: DT

Grade: C

2024

Player: Troy Fautanu

College: Washington

Position: OT

Grade: B

2025

Player: Derrick Harmon

College: Oregon

Position: DT

Grade: B-

This article originally appeared on The List Wire: Mike Tomlin's Steelers first-round draft picks reviewed

Starting center Jarrett Allen has been able to practice two straight days without limitation and Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson says there are no restrictions. But Allen admitted Thursday — about 48 hours before Game 1 — that his problematic right knee is still not full strength. “A little pain,” Allen said following practice. “It’s not going to go away immediately. That’s something that’s going to have to linger for a while. It’s enough where I can play at a high level, I believe.”

Cleveland Plain Dealer

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Jarrett Allen was able to practice two straight days with no restrictions

“When the adrenaline starts going, the pain goes away,” Allen said. “You can say that for everybody. When you’re scoring the ball, when the crowd’s yelling, things start to stop hurting, things start to just go from your mind and you’re so focused on the next play.”

Cleveland Plain Dealer

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “You can say that for everybody. When you’re scoring …

MrBuckBuck: Zohran Mamdani, when asked about the high cost of Knicks playoff tickets vs Atlanta: "I would say that I blame Trae Young... and I think it's always important to blame Trae Young"

journal-topics.com

Zohran Mamdani, when asked about the high cost of Knicks playoff tickets vs Atlanta: "I would say that I blame Trae Young... and I think it's always important to blame Trae Young"

Via: https://t.co/E7EN07I2QXpic.twitter.com/4YG37kvdD1

— MrBuckBuck (@MrBuckBuckNBA) April 16, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Zohran Mamdani, when asked about the high cost of …

Trae Young: Remember what happened the last time the Mayor of that City had my name in his mouth during a time like this… . #DontBlameMeWhenItHappensAgain

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Remember what happened the last time the Mayor of that …

Duane Rankin: Suns injury report vs. Warriors: QUESTIONABLE: Mark Williams (left foot soreness) and Grayson Allen (left hamstring strain) #Suns #DubNation

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Mark Williams (left foot soreness) and Grayson Allen …

Kendra Andrews: BREAKING: Napheesa Collier is signing a one-year $1.4 million super max contract with the Minnesota Lynx, sources tell ESPN. She’s the third player in the WNBA to sign a super max deal.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Napheesa Collier is signing a one-year $1.4 million …

Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said this year's draft board aligns well with Baltimore's roster needs, reducing the likelihood of major conflicts between best-player-available decisions and positional fit.

DeCosta pointed to the class's overall depth as a factor that gives the Ravens flexibility at key positions.

"Yes, that's factored in, of course. We've sort of had some of those discussions. In some years, that would be a real problem for us. I don't see that necessarily in this draft because I think that the fertile aspect of this draft kind of adheres to our needs or what we think might be some of our needs. And so, we look at it, and it's deep. It's good. The positions we need, we feel really strong that we can address in the draft."

"The positions we need we feel really strongly we can address in the Draft." pic.twitter.com/SrgLTfywOl

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) April 15, 2026

For Baltimore, DeCosta's comments suggest the team views this year's class as one that naturally aligns with several roster priorities without requiring major adjustments to its draft strategy.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Eric DeCosta says deep 2026 draft matches Ravens' needs

Morant and Catch12, his media and business venture company, have purchased a stake in the Levallois Metropolitans French basketball team, ClutchPoints has been told. Over the last couple of years, the NBA and FIBA have quickly progressed towards a partnership to bring a new basketball league to Europe. Morant and his team have been monitoring those conversations, and the minority ownership signals Morant’s interest building out his business portfolio outside of traditional means.

Clutch Points

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Ja Morant purchases stake in French basketball team

“I’m excited about how this first season with the Metros is going,” Ja Morant told ClutchPoints. “They represent the culture, just like we do. I like what we are building and hopefully we get to take it into NBA Europe.”

Clutch Points

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “I’m excited about how this first season with the …

The Ravens unveiled modern new uniforms on Thursday night, releasing a sparkling new matte black helmet to their colorways for the 2026 season. As part of a fresh start under the moniker 'Next Flight', the Ravens unveiled a crisp, sharp new look in front of a packed audience of fans and media members at a PSL event on Thursday, April 16, at Merriweather Post Pavilion.

The evening event included a performance from cover band Go Go Gadjet and appearances by current players and more than a dozen Ravens Legends, including Terrell Suggs, Todd Heap, Qadry Ismail, Jamal Lewis, Jermaine Lewis, Michael McCrary, Edwin Mulitalo, Ray Rice, Jimmy Smith, and Matt Stover.

The full lineup 🔥 pic.twitter.com/m0fZAkkwEh

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) April 16, 2026

The Next Flight takes off pic.twitter.com/qLggrzB5Fi

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) April 16, 2026

A look the Ravens’ new uniform collection pic.twitter.com/eAMDQs2pd8

— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) April 16, 2026

Baltimore previously added an alternate 'Purple Rising helmet for one game each season, and the new design was met with praise and excitement from fans and players alike. On Thursday, they debuted the 'Next Flight" uniforms, and the new threads will go on sale on Friday, April 17.

Players reacted to the new uniforms, with quarterback Lamar Jackson "wishing he could speed up time" because he badly wants to play in the look jerseys. With the uniforms now unveiled and set to a huge reaction, we're ranking the 12 colorways from best to worst.

1. All Black jersey, black pants, new Black helmet

The new Matte Black helmet is fire, and takes this combination to the top

Ocho pic.twitter.com/aWScv8Xg24

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) April 17, 2026

2. Purple rising jersey/purple rising helmet

𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 royalty pic.twitter.com/ZkRbnf0lDL

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) April 17, 2026

3. New purple helmet, white pants, and white jersey

A new addition, the purple rising helmet with an all-white jersey look, is outstanding.

The Ravens’ new purple helmet and white jersey, which has Baltimore on the front and wings around the collar pic.twitter.com/7sguser9nV

— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) April 17, 2026

4. New purple rising helmet, white jersey, purple pants

5. Black jersey, purple pants

6. All Purple Color rush, with regular helmets

7. White jersey, purple pants

8. Black jersey, white pants

9. white jersey, black pants

10. White jersey, White pants, regular helmet

11. Purple jersey/Black Pants

12. Purple jersey, white pants

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Baltimore Ravens unveil new uniforms: Ranking the 12 combinations

When you pick up commitments from blue-chip players early in the recruiting cycle, it always becomes a challenge to try to hang on to them throughout the season and up to the national signing period in December. However, it's always nice to see those commits shut down their recruitment early and take that worry off of the table.

That's what happened for the Oregon Ducks this week with a pair of their top commits in the 2027 class. Both 4-star DL Zane Rowe and 4-star EDGE Cam Pritchett announced that they would be shutting down their recruitment and focusing solely on the Ducks going forward, which likely means they won't be taking any other visits or entertaining pitches from other prospective teams.

Rowe is one of the top players in Oregon's class so far, standing at 6-foot-5, 265 pounds. He is rated as the No. 93 overall player and No. 9 defensive lineman in the class. He committed to Oregon in early March.

Oregon EDGE commit Zane Rowe is shutting down his recruitment 🦆 🔒 pic.twitter.com/bWLlEH0vSL

— Oregon Updates (@oregon__updates) April 16, 2026

Pritchett is the other Duck who shut down his recruitment. Pritchett is the longest-standing commit in Oregon's 2027 class, coming into the fold in June of last year. He is rated as the No. 136 overall player and No. 16 EDGE in the nation, standing at 6-foot-3, 230 pounds.

Oregon 4-star EDGE commit Cam Pritchett (@Cam_Pritchett_) is shutting down his recruitment 🦆 🔒

Joins 4-star DE Zane Rowe pic.twitter.com/aoZNLZv6el

— Oregon Updates (@oregon__updates) April 16, 2026

Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.  

This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: Oregon Ducks receive major recruiting news for pair of 2027 commits

As the Jacksonville Jaguars' Travis Hunter continues to work his way back from a knee injury sustained last season, he has been documenting his recovery and has shared his journey on YouTube.

Hunter sustained the non-contact knee injury in practice prior to the Jaguars' Week 9 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders. Surgery to repair the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) in Hunter's right knee would follow shortly after.

Now several months removed from the injury and surgery, Hunter is progressing well. GM James Gladstone recently provided an update and timeline for Hunter's return to the practice field.

"He'll be, for all intents and purposes," Gladstone said, "a limited participant throughout the offseason program with eyes on return to play at full tick in training camp."

Both Gladstone and Liam Coen have made it clear that Hunter will continue to play both ways upon his return. However, given the construction of the Jaguars' roster at the moment, there may be more opportunities on defense for him this season compared to last.

As of now, Hunter is likely to step in at the starting cornerback role opposite of Montaric Brown. While on offense, the Jaguars also have Brian Thomas Jr., Jakobi Meyers, and Parker Washington at wideout, so the need for Hunter to take on a heavy workload offensively isn't as high as it seems to be on defense.

Voluntary offseason programs for the Jaguars begin on Apr. 20th.

This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: Behind the scenes look at Travis Hunter's recovery from knee injury

The Chicago White Sox squandered a late lead, suffering a 5-3 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays on Thursday in front of 10,128 at Rate Field.

The Sox entered the ninth ahead by one run. But the Rays scored three times in the inning on the way to sweeping the Sox (6-13).

Junior Caminero hit a tying home run leading off the ninth against Sox closer Seranthony Domínguez. Hunter Feduccia and Taylor Walls drew bases-loaded walks against reliever Lucas Sims.

Here are three takeaways from Rate Field.

1. It was a tough ninth inning for the Sox bullpen.

Domínguez found trouble right away against Caminero, beginning the at-bat with three straight balls. He got a sinker off the plate for a called strike and then went back to the pitch again. Caminero connected for the solo home run that just got over the left-field wall.

Domínguez struck out Cedric Mullins, but the Rays then loaded the bases with a single, a walk and a batter getting hit by a pitch.

“I think it’s one of those where he didn’t have his best stuff,” Sox manager Will Venable said. “He wasn’t able to command the ball.”

Sims entered and struck out Jake Fraley looking on a pitch that initially was called a ball on a 3-2 count but was overturned to a strike on a challenge. But Feduccia walked, giving the Rays a 4-3 lead. And Walls followed with another walk, extending the lead.

Those runs were charged to Domínguez, who suffered his second blown save of the season while falling to 1-2.

“Every time I come in, I just try to do my thing,” Domínguez said, “and unfortunately I didn’t do my job today, but I have to do it next time.”

2. The Sox made the most of their ABS challenges.

The Rays had a chance for a potential big inning earlier in the game, loading the bases with two outs in the third.

Sox pitcher Anthony Kay, who followed opener Jordan Leasure, fell behind in the count 2-0 to Yandy Díaz. The next pitch was initially called a ball. Catcher Edgar Quero challenged, and it was overturned to a strike.

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The following pitch again was called a ball. Quero challenged, and again it was overturned to a strike. With a 2-2 count, Kay got Díaz to pop out to end the inning.

“That was huge, especially with the bases loaded,” Kay said.

Quero said part of his strategy when challenging includes, “recognize the zone, recognize where I am in the box behind the plate. And at the same time, trying to be a little bit lucky with the pitch.”

Quero was also helpful at the plate with an RBI double in the sixth that at the time gave the Sox a 2-1 lead. It was his first extra-base hit and first RBI of the season.

“I finally got my first RBI,” Quero said. “I can help the team a little bit and keep doing my stuff and get better to keep helping the team.”

3. Everson Pereira ‘feeling good at the plate’ while contributing against his former team.

The Sox acquired Pereira as part of an offseason trade with the Rays. The outfielder returned from the injured list (left ankle sprain) Tuesday and hit a three-run home run in the third inning of the 8-5 loss in the series opener.

Pereira connected for a solo home run in the eighth inning Wednesday, putting the Sox briefly ahead 3-2. Pereira went 2-for-3 with a walk in the game.

“I’m feeling good at home plate too,” Pereira said through an interpreter. “I’m just trying to help the team.”

Pereira appeared in 23 games with the Rays last season. He said playing against them for the first time “was the same as any other team. A different team and we’re just trying to beat them.”

The Sox showed some power in the series — they hit two home runs Tuesday (Pereira and Munetaka Murakami) and two Thursday (Miguel Vargas and Pereira) — but big hits as a whole eluded the team.

“We haven’t had a ton to show for it, but we’ve been hitting the ball hard,” Venable said. “Whether it’s too much on the ground or at guys. (The Rays) have really good defenders, too, made a ton of plays.

“Stringing some good things for the offense. Still just missing that big hit to put some of these crooked numbers up there. But just have to keep going.”

Apr. 16—Rodney Heath Jr. hasn't played an organized football game since 2019, but two years removed from a decorated college track career, the Lakota East High School alumnus got the itch to try to make it to the NFL.

The sprinter turned professional in track after wrapping up at Louisiana Tech in 2024 and now will give it a try in football.

Heath, the son of former Bengals cornerback Rodney Heath Sr., has been training with his dad, East football coach Jon Kitna and Kitna's son, former University of Alabama-Birmingham quarterback Jalen Kitna, to get ready for free-agent workouts.

Heath participated in the UAB Pro Day with Jalen Kitna a few weeks ago, then got a call from the Bengals inviting him to their local player pre-draft workout. He was among the 32 players with local ties to Cincinnati who participated in the event Tuesday at Paycor Stadium.

"Just grace of God, the opportunity presented itself, and then I just opened the door, and I just walked through it," Heath said.

Cincinnati Bengals: Xenia grad Gerhardt feels at home during local players workout

Heath, who won the 2020 Indoor State Championship in the 60-meter dash as a senior at East, began his collegiate track career with two years at the University of Kentucky before transferring to Louisiana Tech.

He earned NCAA All-American Honorable Mention honors in 2023, qualified for the NCAA Championships while setting a school record in the 100-meter dash with a 9.99-second time and earned multiple gold, silver and bronze medals at the Conference-USA Championships in 2023 and 2024.

Following his last meet in 2024, Heath turned pro in track and continued racing until this past indoor season.

"I sat out indoor because of the buzz about me coming back to football," Heath said. "I just decided to do it, and then, like I said, the opportunity, when it opened, I just took it."

Aside from not playing college football, Heath is trying to make it at a position he wasn't even well-known for in high school. Playing for an East team that relied on a running game in a traditional triple-option offense, he had just three catches for 22 yards among the Hawks' mere 32 passes completed for 521 yards in 2019.

Heath played more cornerback than wide receiver and finished with two interceptions as a senior, but felt his best chance in the NFL would be on offense.

"When I came on the other side to play receiver, it was kind of like, mentally, it's kind of easier for me because I have a defensive mindset coming up with the offensive side of the ball," Heath said.

Because Heath is now almost two years removed from college, he enters the pool as a free agent and can be signed by any team. His dad knows something about trying to make it to the NFL as an undrafted free agent.

Rodney Heath Sr., a Cincinnati native, came out of the University of Minnesota in 1997 and joined the Bengals in 1999. After three seasons with the Bengals, he went to the Atlanta Falcons for the 2002 campaign before finishing his professional career in the Canadian Football League and eventually getting into coaching. He's been East's track coach since 2018.

Jalen Kitna, son of former Bengals QB, participates in team's pre-draft workout

"Sometimes when he's telling me something or trying to teach me something, then he'll bring it (his NFL career) up, and then he'll let me know," Heath said. "I mean, he told me about guarding Marvin Harrison and things of that nature, and it was fun to hear those stories."

Heath hopes to have his own stories to share someday, but he knows he faces an uphill battle.

Working out in front of the Bengals coaches, scouts and front office on Tuesday gave him a chance to at least turn some heads. He stayed a while after the workout ended to do some extra drills, and at the end, he was asked to run a 40-yard dash.

Heath doesn't know what time he ran but hopes it was 4.3 or lower. The fastest time at the NFL Combine this year was a 4.26-second dash.

"Football is a tough sport, but my dad always taught me mental toughness, so when I came here, it was just mentally locked in," Heath said. "I just came and showed them that I can run, I can catch, and I'm coachable."

Apr. 16—The Dayton Flyers hosted Mississippi sophomore guard Travis Perry for a visit this week and will soon have Quinnipiac sophomore forward Grant Randall on campus, according to a source.

Dayton has not yet received a commitment from a transfer this spring. It has five returning players on the 2026-27 roster and three incoming freshmen. It could add as many as seven more players. There is a 15-player limit on the roster.

Perry, a 6-foot-1 guard from Eddyville, Ky., averaged 5.3 points and 1.1 assists in 16.5 minutes per game for Ole Miss. He appeared in 35 games and made 16 starts. He shot 35.3% (48 of 136) from 3-point range.

Perry played his freshman season with the Kentucky Wildcats, averaging 2.7 points in 9.7 minutes per game.

Perry finished his high school career as the all-time leading scorer in Kentucky with 5,481 points. He won the Kentucky Mr. Basketball award in 2024 when he helped lead Lyon County High School to a state championship. He averaged 32.2 points per game that season.

RELATED: Thomas, Friery will return to Dayton for 2026-27 season

Randall, a 6-9 forward, averaged 11.4 points and 6.6 rebounds in 31.6 minutes per game as a sophomore. He appeared in 32 games and started 31.

Randall is a native of Queens, N.Y., but played high school basketball at the Mount Pisgah Christian School in Georgia. He then played for two programs during a post-graduate year: the Mont Sports Academy in Florida and the Putnam Science Academy in Connecticut.

Randall will visit Dayton on Sunday. He also has visits scheduled with Cincinnati and George Mason, according to recruiting analyst Sam Kayser.

DAYTON — The feeling started long before the first pitch.

By the time Badin senior right-hander Caleb Driessen stepped on the mound Wednesday, he already knew something was different.

“I was just so locked in,” Driessen said. “From school that day, to the bus ride, to warmups — everything just felt right.”

That feeling carried all the way through seven innings — and into history.

Driessen tossed a no-hitter against Chaminade Julienne, overpowering a respected lineup and leading the Rams to a dominant 5-0 road win in a performance that blended precision, emotion and control.

“He was Caleb Driessen tonight,” Badin coach Brion Treadway said. “He was on. What else is there to say about him?”

From the outset, Driessen attacked with confidence. Even an early defensive miscue — a first-inning error — did little to disrupt his rhythm. He responded immediately with a double play and a strikeout to end the threat.

That sequence set the tone.

“I got a little hyped after that,” Driessen said. “I was like, ‘OK, here we go.’”

From there, he settled into a groove, mixing strikeouts with weak contact as the innings passed. By the fourth inning, everything he had felt in warmups was translating to the game.

“What was working in the pen was coming onto the field,” said Driessen, who finished with 10 strikeouts.

Driessen didn’t allow himself to think too far ahead — at least not for long. The thought of a no-hitter briefly crept around the fifth inning, but he quickly shut it down.

“I’ve seen what that does to people,” he said. “So I just told myself to keep executing, keep doing your thing.”

That mindset carried him into the seventh, where the challenge intensified. Facing the top of the Chaminade Julienne order, Driessen turned inward.

“I told myself, ‘Who wants it more?’” he said. “And I decided it was going to be me.”

Pitch by pitch, he dug deeper.

A strikeout. A fly out. And then — with another strikeout — history.

Driessen didn’t rush off the mound. He paused, soaking it in, before unleashing a roar toward the sky.

“I just cherished it,” Driessen said. “Every second of it.”

Despite the magnitude of the moment — his first no-hitter at the high school level — the celebration was relatively subdued. That, Driessen said, speaks to the standard inside the Badin program.

“It’s almost like they’re used to it,” he said chuckling. “Not the no-hitter, but just winning and playing well. We’ve got great coaching, great defense, great offense. Everybody just does their job.”

That defense played a key role behind him, turning balls in play into outs and preserving the gem.

“It was a great night all around,” said Driessen, a Miami University commit. “Our guys were stellar.

“This one was special.”

Rodney Heath Jr. hasn’t played an organized football game since 2019, but two years removed from a decorated college track career, the Lakota East High School alumnus got the itch to try to make it to the NFL.

The sprinter turned professional in track after wrapping up at Louisiana Tech in 2024 and now will give it a try in football.

Heath, the son of former Bengals cornerback Rodney Heath Sr., has been training with his dad, East football coach Jon Kitna and Kitna’s son, former University of Alabama-Birmingham quarterback Jalen Kitna, to get ready for free-agent workouts.

Heath participated in the UAB Pro Day with Jalen Kitna a few weeks ago, then got a call from the Bengals inviting him to their local player pre-draft workout. He was among the 32 players with local ties to Cincinnati who participated in the event Tuesday at Paycor Stadium.

“Just grace of God, the opportunity presented itself, and then I just opened the door, and I just walked through it,” Heath said.

Cincinnati Bengals: Xenia grad Gerhardt feels at home during local players workout

Heath, who won the 2020 Indoor State Championship in the 60-meter dash as a senior at East, began his collegiate track career with two years at the University of Kentucky before transferring to Louisiana Tech.

He earned NCAA All-American Honorable Mention honors in 2023, qualified for the NCAA Championships while setting a school record in the 100-meter dash with a 9.99-second time and earned multiple gold, silver and bronze medals at the Conference-USA Championships in 2023 and 2024.

Following his last meet in 2024, Heath turned pro in track and continued racing until this past indoor season.

“I sat out indoor because of the buzz about me coming back to football,” Heath said. “I just decided to do it, and then, like I said, the opportunity, when it opened, I just took it.”

Aside from not playing college football, Heath is trying to make it at a position he wasn’t even well-known for in high school. Playing for an East team that relied on a running game in a traditional triple-option offense, he had just three catches for 22 yards among the Hawks’ mere 32 passes completed for 521 yards in 2019.

Heath played more cornerback than wide receiver and finished with two interceptions as a senior, but felt his best chance in the NFL would be on offense.

“When I came on the other side to play receiver, it was kind of like, mentally, it's kind of easier for me because I have a defensive mindset coming up with the offensive side of the ball,” Heath said.

Because Heath is now almost two years removed from college, he enters the pool as a free agent and can be signed by any team. His dad knows something about trying to make it to the NFL as an undrafted free agent.

Rodney Heath Sr., a Cincinnati native, came out of the University of Minnesota in 1997 and joined the Bengals in 1999. After three seasons with the Bengals, he went to the Atlanta Falcons for the 2002 campaign before finishing his professional career in the Canadian Football League and eventually getting into coaching. He’s been East’s track coach since 2018.

Jalen Kitna, son of former Bengals QB, participates in team’s pre-draft workout

“Sometimes when he's telling me something or trying to teach me something, then he'll bring it (his NFL career) up, and then he'll let me know,” Heath said. “I mean, he told me about guarding Marvin Harrison and things of that nature, and it was fun to hear those stories.”

Heath hopes to have his own stories to share someday, but he knows he faces an uphill battle.

Working out in front of the Bengals coaches, scouts and front office on Tuesday gave him a chance to at least turn some heads. He stayed a while after the workout ended to do some extra drills, and at the end, he was asked to run a 40-yard dash.

Heath doesn’t know what time he ran but hopes it was 4.3 or lower. The fastest time at the NFL Combine this year was a 4.26-second dash.

“Football is a tough sport, but my dad always taught me mental toughness, so when I came here, it was just mentally locked in,” Heath said. “I just came and showed them that I can run, I can catch, and I'm coachable.”

Apr. 16—The Dayton Flyers women's basketball team added its first transfer of the spring Wednesday, April 15, announcing the signing of Cori Allen, a 5-foot-10 junior guard.

Allen, who has one season of eligibility remaining, averaged 6.5 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.6 assists in 30.8 minutes per game last season at Memphis. She shot 37.4% from the field.

Allen started her career at Illinois, playing two seasons for former Dayton coach Shauna Green and averaging single-digit minutes both seasons.

A Nashville, Tenn., native who attended Hillsboro High School for two years, Allen played her final two seasons of high school basketball at Montverde Academy near Orlando, Fla.

In other Dayton women's basketball news:

—Brittany Parker joined Tamika Williams-Jeter's staff as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator on Thursday, April 16. She spent the last four seasons at Virginia Commonwealth, which fired head coach Beth O'Boyle in February during her 12th season.

"Brittany is a huge win for Flyer Nation!, Williams-Jeter said in a press release. She brings a high standard of winning, recruiting connections and will ignite dominant post play in the A-10 conference. Brittany has built her name in our business off intentional relationships and hard work."

—Dayton handed out team awards this week at a banquet. Nayo Lear won the MVP award.

Other players honored were: Molly O'Riordan (Most Improved Player); Maliah Johnson (Linda Walz Courage Award); Ajok Madol (Flyer Award); Olivia Leung & Nicole Stephens (Scholar Award)

—Sophomore guard Kamryn Grant announced April 6 that she would enter the transfer portal. She averaged 1.0 point and appeared in 22 games in two seasons at Dayton.

The Golden State Warriors have put together their teams through a variety of ways over the years, yet few approaches have proven as successful as the NBA draft. More than anything else, the most talented players to represent the Warriors have arrived in Golden State either by being selected directly in the annual draft or through trades executed on that same night.

The Golden State Warriors have taken many of their top stars through the draft, but have also landed a number of notable players over the years as well. From tiny colleges to blue blood programs, these alumni have contributed significantly to the team's roster over the years. So, we chose to take a closer look at which Dubs came from which schools over the years.

So without further ado, let's take a look at every player who has been drafted by the Warriors out of Bowling Green.

Johnny Payak - guard

Draft year and position: 11th round (10th pick, 76th overall), 1963 NBA Draft

Seasons at Bowling Green: unknown

Seasons played with Warriors: did not make the team

Nate Thurmond - center

Draft year and position: first round (third pick, third overall), 1963 NBA Draft

Seasons at Bowling Green: three

Seasons played with Warriors: 11 - Hall of Fame

Walt Piatkowski - forward

Draft year and position: eighth round (seventh pick, 99th overall), 1968 NBA Draft

Seasons at Bowling Green: three

Seasons played with Warriors: did not make the team

All stats and data courtesy of Basketball Reference.

This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Every Bowling Green player drafted by the Warriors

The Brooklyn Nets have 52 jersey numbers worn by over 600 different players over the course of their history since the franchise was founded in 1967 as a charter member of the American Basketball Association (ABA), when the team was known as the "New Jersey Americans".

Since then, that league has been absorbed by the NBA, with the team that would later become the New York Nets and New Jersey Nets before settling on the name by which they are known today, bringing their rich player and jersey history with them to the league of today.

To commemorate the players who played for the Nets over the decades wearing those 52 different jersey numbers, Nets Wire is covering the entire history of the franchise's jersey numbers and the players who sported them since the founding of the team.

And for today's article, we will continue with the first of eight people to wear the No. 55 jersey, forward alum Albert King. After ending his college career at Maryland, King was picked up with the 10th overall selection of the 1981 NBA Draft by the (then) New Jersey (now, Brooklyn) Nets.

The Brooklyn, New York native played the first nine seasons of his pro career with New Jersey, coming to an end when he signed with the Philadelphia 76ers in 1987.

During his time suiting up for the Nets, King wore only jersey No. 55 and put up 13.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game.

All stats and data courtesy of Basketball Reference.

This article originally appeared on Nets Wire: Nets jersey history No. 55 - Albert Kings (1981-87)

The Houston Rockets have had players donning a total of 52 different jersey numbers (and have one not part of any numerical series for Houston assistant coach and general manager Carroll Dawson) since their founding at the start of the 1967-68 season, worn by just under 500 players in the course of Rockets history.

To honor all of the players who wore those numbers over the decades, Rockets Wire is covering the entire history of jersey numbers and the players who wore them since the founding of the team all those years ago right up to the present day.

With seven of those jerseys now retired to honor some of the greatest Rockets of all time to wear those jerseys, there is a lot of history to cover.

And for today's article, we will continue with the fourth of 16 who wore the No. 12, guard alum Jaren Jackson Sr. After ending his college career at Georgetown, Jackson went unselected in the 1989 NBA Draft, instead signing with the (then) New Jersey (now, Brooklyn) Nets that same year.

The New Orleans, Louisiana native played the first seasons of his pro career with New Jersey. He also played for the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Clippers, Portland Trail Blazers, and Philadelphia 76ers before he signed with the Houston Rockets in 1996. His stay with the team lasted until he signed with the (then) Washington Bullets (now, Wizards) that same fall.

During his time suiting up for the Rockets, Jackson wore only jersey No. 12 and put up 2.0 points per game.

All stats and data courtesy of Basketball Reference.

This article originally appeared on Rockets Wire: Rockets jersey history No. 13 - Jaren Jackson Sr. (1996)

The New England Patriots have identified the former franchise great who will present one of their draft picks on Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft.

According to ESPN’s Mike Reiss, former Patriots wide receiver Deion Branch will announce one of the Patriots’ selections between rounds 2-3 of the NFL draft as part of the NFL’s Legends initiative.

Branch was selected by the Patriots with the No. 65 overall pick in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft. The Louisville product played for the Patriots from 2002-05, and then from 2010-12.

Branch won two Super Bowls with New England and was named the Super Bowl XXXIX MVP.

The Patriots are in the market for a wide receiver, off-ball linebacker and an offensive lineman on the right side of the ball in the draft. New England owns the No. 63 overall pick in the second round, as well as the No. 95 overall pick in the third round this year.

Follow Patriots Wire on Twitter and Facebook.

This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Patriots two-time Super Bowl champ to announce team's Day 2 draft pick

Rick Bowness agreed to a one-year contract extension to remain as coach of the Blue Jackets, team president and general manager Don Waddell said on Thursday, April 16.

"If you look at the body of work that happened here over the last 37 games, I'm very pleased with Rick's work," Blue Jackets president of hockey operations/general manager Don Waddell said. "I've said all along the strengths of this organization from a coaching standpoint has been the communication he's had with the players and getting the players ready to play on a regular basis."

More Blue Jackets news: Coach Rick Bowness rips team after playoff miss: 'They don't care'

Bowness, 71, took over the bench from Dean Evason on Jan. 12 and guided the Jackets to a 21-11-5 record that nearly took them from last in the Eastern Conference when he accepted the job to a playoff spot. In fact, they climbed as high as second in the Metropolitan Division before a 3-9-1 finish.

"It's always interesting when you do make changes, how players are going to respond, and even through all the exit meetings that have happened so far, every player to a man said they loved playing for Rick, they respect Rick and they were all hoping he'd come back for another year," Waddell said. "So, we're very pleased to announce that signing."

Bowness' first season ended with some turbulence after his meltdown following a 2-1 loss to the Washington Capitals in a season finale that didn't mean anything to either team in the standings. After bashing a wall outside the interview room at Nationwide Arena, presumably with a hockey stick, Bowness boiled over at a news conference that prompted pushback from players the next day.

“All you’ve got to do is look at the stat sheet,” Bowness said after the final game. “Three hits. Twenty-three giveaways. Like, I don’t know if I’m back, but if I’m back, I’m changing this culture. These guys, they don’t care. Losing is not important enough to them. It doesn’t bother them. Like, how can you go out and play like that?”

Those words resonated throughout a fan base that has felt largely the same way over much of the franchise's 25-year history. The Blue Jackets have qualified for the playoffs only six times and have won only one playoff series, a 2019 sweep of the heavily favored Tampa Bay Lightning.

They also upset the Toronto Maple Leafs in a five-game postseason series held inside the league's 2020 Toronto "bubble" during the COVID-19 pandemic, but that was just to qualify for the official playoff field.

Rick Bowness furious following the 2-1 loss to Washington.

The Blue Jackets finish the season losing six straight at home, barely missing the playoffs, more tonight @nbc4i#CBJpic.twitter.com/o7We2CEmTY

— Joe Nugent (@joenuge) April 15, 2026

The Blue Jackets haven't sniffed the playoffs since, extending their drought to six years after replacing former president of hockey operations John Davidson and former general manager Jarmo Kekalainen with Waddell in May 2024, and replacing head coaches Brad Larsen in 2023, Mike Babcock in 2023, Pascal Vincent in 2024 and Evason in January.

The initial goal in promoting Larsen to replace John Tortorella in 2021 was to maintain the winning culture built under Tortorella while doing so with a kinder, gentler approach that some feel is better suited to the NHL's youngest players. Larsen lasted two seasons before Kekalainen replaced him with Babcock, who had left his previous stop with the Maple Leafs under scrutiny for bullying allegations.

Babcock made it 78 days with the Blue Jackets before a forced resignation following allegations that he violated players' privacy by scrolling through their cellphones. That led to Vincent being promoted as an emergency fill-in option on a two-year contract, and Waddell opted not to let him coach a second season after replacing Davidson/Kekalainen.

That led to Evason's hiring, and he lasted only halfway into his second year before Waddell plied Bowness out of retirement to finish the season. Now, Bowness' turn at the rudder.

"Coming in, I knew, 'OK, this is a pretty good team, a lot of good pieces,'" Bowness said. "We had some success early and that made it a lot of fun, but it just scratched the itch a little bit more and I'm very excited ... because I am anxious to come back and finish the job that I came here to do, and that's to get the Columbus Blue Jackets in the playoffs."

As Bowness pointed out, things cruised along nicely during a 19-3-4 start to Bowness' tenure, boosting the Jackets into second place of the Metro, but the bottom soon fell out. Bowness bit his tongue through most of the collapse, slipping just once following a 5-1 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes on April 2 in Raleigh, North Carolina, but all he had pent up came out following the season finale.

“Should’ve done this about a month ago,” Bowness said. “But this is why we are where we are. This is why we’re out of the playoffs, that kind of effort. Losing ... you have to hate losing. I don’t care if it’s a meaningless game. I don’t … care. Show up and compete. Three hits! Twenty-three giveaways! What else you want to know?”

Two days later, Bowness was asked if he regretted anything about the outburst and shook his head.

"No," he said. "Did I push the bar a little bit? Yeah. I know that, but that's me, right? So, I've got to live with myself. I'm not going to walk in here and say, 'Oh, I should've done this and I shouldn't have ..." did I push it? Yeah, I pushed that envelope a little bit, but that's who I am. I'm not going to come in here and B.S. you people, right? I'm going to tell you what I see and what I don't like, and was that a little over the top? Probably. I'll be the first to admit that, but I've got to live with myself, too, man."

Players pushed back while meeting with reporters during their first day of exit interviews April 15, saying they do, indeed, care about losing. Those who were asked about Bowness' future, however, all said they hoped to keep playing for him and that no fences needed mending.

"I'd be ecstatic if 'Bones' is back," defenseman Damon Severson said. "He's the best coach I've personally ever had. I've had a couple really good coaches. I've had some really ... not good coaches. Bones has been the best one so far. I read a little bit of the guys' comments (after the rant), who were around here with the media, and I think that was the biggest thing they said was, 'We're all big fans of Bones.'

"We just let the team down, we let the organization down and the fans down by not being in the playoffs, but Rick Bowness is not the issue at all. He's going to be part of the solution here."

Severson, who missed the final 10 games with a season-ending shoulder injury, met with reporters April 16 via teleconference. Mathieu Olivier did, too, after missing the final eight games with a fractured bone in his hand. His thoughts on Bowness echoed Severson.

"I'd love for him to be back, and I know my teammates feels the same way," Olivier said. "I just love the passion and the energy that he brings every day, and the communication with everyone. It's been really good to have him around. I've been working with him and we've started to build a really good relationship with him and the coaching staff, and everyone here. I'd be really excited for him to be back."

Blue Jackets reporter Brian Hedger can be reached at bhedger@dispatch.com and @BrianHedger.bsky.social

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus Blue Jackets agree to contract extension with Rick Bowness

Michigan State women's basketball has made a splash in the transfer portal, adding a new member to their roster for the upcoming season, landing a local product.

Anna Wypych has made the decision to transfer to Michigan State. A freshman at Butler this past season, she is a 6-foot guard that is a native of Rockford, Michigan. In her first year of college basketball, she averaged 6.5 points on 44-percent shooting from the field, while shooting 38-percent from three.

With three years of eligibility remaining, and major conference experience, she is someone that Robyn Fralick can really build around as she continues building the Spartan program.

Go Green 💚🤍 pic.twitter.com/FGLzjXhIBr

— Anna Wypych (@anna0wypych) April 16, 2026

Contact/Follow us @The SpartansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan State news, notes and opinion. You can also follow Cory Linsner on X @Rex_Linzy

This article originally appeared on Spartans Wire: Michigan State lands commitment from Butler guard, local product

Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Owen Heinecke has been granted an injunction by Judge Thad Balkman in Cleveland County Court that will allow him to play one more season of college football in 2026. After a long fight against the NCAA, it looks like Heinecke will be able to suit up for OU this year, with Judge Balkman's ruling making him immediately eligible to play.

It's a huge decision for the Sooners, as they'll now have their star LB back in the fold for this season. Heinecke went from virtual unknown to breakout star last year, and his return gives a big boost to the OU defense.

The Heinecke eligibility saga has raged on since last season ended, and it was a story that had been closely monitored for months. Now, with the ruling going in Heinecke's favor, many on social media reacted to Oklahoma getting a big piece of their defense back for one more year.

Here are the best social media reactions to the Heinecke ruling.

The Moment

Balkman has granted the injunction.

Owen Heinecke is back.

— George Stoia III (@GeorgeStoia) April 16, 2026

Boss Man Reacts

BOOMER pic.twitter.com/NAtVXQ770o

— Roger Denny (@Oklahoma_AD) April 16, 2026

OU's GM happy with court ruling

Welcome back, #38!!! pic.twitter.com/EkNzNRlXhj

— Jim Nagy (@JimNagyOU) April 16, 2026

Man of the hour happy to be back

Owen Heinecke reacts to the decision from Judge Balkman and shares emotions from throughout the day. pic.twitter.com/1OcOnvr0Qv

— George Stoia III (@GeorgeStoia) April 16, 2026

Returning to wreak havoc

Let’s ride pic.twitter.com/hudJH3LDa2

— Sooners Insider (@SoonersInsider) April 16, 2026

Danny wants reimbursed

@HeineckeOwen congratulations!!!
Big money NIL guy now https://t.co/rpahoFLStdpic.twitter.com/CrIu9nxkjs

— Danny Stutsman (@Danny_Stutsman) April 16, 2026

Owen has been freed

Live look at Owen Heinecke #BOOMERhttps://t.co/0x8zKnBtgEpic.twitter.com/pXEhnd6v1t

— Tattoo Baker 🎥✨ (@QB1Tattoo) April 16, 2026

Former OU standouts react

LFG @HeineckeOwen! pic.twitter.com/GrlT69KeuI

— The Oklahoma Breakdown with Ikard and Lehman (@OK_Breakdown) April 16, 2026

Common sense finally wins

Owen Heinecke situation is a win for common sense

— J.D. PicKell (@jdpickell) April 16, 2026

Lou Groza Award winner chimes in

pic.twitter.com/g355ShGgOp

— Tate Sandell (@TateSandell1) April 16, 2026

LBs will be scary in 2026

Boom!!

Heinecke for another year. 👊#Soonerspic.twitter.com/xZN5kOSFBz

— Connor Pasby (@ConnorPasby) April 16, 2026

Relentless effort

Owen Heinecke in a nutshell. pic.twitter.com/bE4cLWoO7z

— Seth Oliveras  (@SethOliveras) April 16, 2026

One last ride

pic.twitter.com/JNCvzzt2No

— Oklahoma Football (@OU_Football) April 16, 2026

Contact/Follow us @SoonersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oklahoma news, notes and opinions. You can also follow Aaron on X@Aaron_Gelvin.

This article originally appeared on Sooners Wire: Social media reacts to Owen Heinecke being granted injunction request

COLUMBIA, MD — The Baltimore Ravens are going to look a little different in 2026. Literally.

The team introduced new uniforms on April 16, its first significant revamp since 1999, which was only the franchise's fourth season of existence. The reveal was attended by team legends like Peter Boulware and a heavy turnout of "Ravens Flock" fans at Merriweather Post Pavilion.

The Next Flight takes off pic.twitter.com/qLggrzB5Fi

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) April 16, 2026

The rollout of the new unis coincides with the arrival of rookie head coach Jesse Minter, who replaced John Harbaugh − he'd held the post since 2008 and led Baltimore to its second Super Bowl victory following the 2012 season. But Harbaugh was fired on the heels of a disappointing 2025 season, during which the Ravens finished 8-9 despite carrying widespread championship expectations during the campaign.

Since 1999, the club had primarily worn its familiar uniform with a steady flow of variations, including monochrome black and monochrome purple iterations − the latter coming with a new helmet in 2024 that capped its "Purple Rising" motif. There was also the game in 2015 − but just one − when the Ravens sported mustard pants, which were widely mocked right back into mothballs.

All NFL news on and off the field. Sign up for USA TODAY's 4th and Monday newsletter.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: New Ravens uniforms revealed: Check them out

This off-season, the Ravens hired their fourth head coach in franchise history, bringing back Jesse Minter. On Thursday, Baltimore unveiled new uniforms for the first time in 26 years, or five years after the franchise returned to Charm City. The evening event included a performance from cover band Go Go Gadjet and appearances by current players and more than a dozen Ravens Legends, including Terrell Suggs, Todd Heap, Qadry Ismail, Jamal Lewis, Jermaine Lewis, Michael McCrary, Edwin Mulitalo, Ray Rice, Jimmy Smith, and Matt Stover.

Calling it a fresh start, under the moniker 'Next Flight', the Ravens unveiled a crisp, sharp new look in front of a packed audience of fans and media members at a PSL event on Thursday, April 16, at Merriweather Post Pavilion.

The Next Flight takes off pic.twitter.com/qLggrzB5Fi

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) April 16, 2026

"From the outset, our objective was clear: evolve a uniform that has become iconic, and only move forward if we could truly make it better," Senior Vice President of Marketing Brad Downs said. "After more than two years of design, iteration, and collaboration, we believe we've done just that—delivering a look that feels both modern and unmistakably Ravens."

Baltimore previously added an alternate 'Purple Rising helmet for one game each season, and the new design was met with praise and excitement from fans and players alike. On Thursday, they debuted the 'Next Flight" uniforms, and the new threads will go on sale on Friday, April 17.

Players reacted to the new uniforms, with quarterback Lamar Jackson "wishing he could speed up time" because he badly wants to play in the look jerseys.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Baltimore Ravens unveil new uniform combination

Dave McMenamin: “I think a lot of the great players, the best players, what they're addicted to is being the showman. And being on the stage and giving a performance” - JJ Redick with an insightful answer comparing LeBron’s continued production in his 40s to Eric Clapton touring in his 70s

x.com

“I think a lot of the great players, the best players, what they're addicted to is being the showman. And being on the stage and giving a performance” - JJ Redick with an insightful answer comparing LeBron’s continued production in his 40s to Eric Clapton touring in his 70s pic.twitter.com/XEgwfGEUhl

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) April 16, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “I think a lot of the great players, the best players, …

Dave McMenamin: “He’s the head of the snake. But it’s the Houston Rockets and they have some damn good players on that team. So, it’s not just a KD team. … KD is going to do what KD does. … We know that. We have to prepare not only for him, but the whole group” - LeBron on Kevin Durant

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: KD is going to do what KD does. … We know that. We …

Dave McMenamin: “It’s insane. I mean, I’ve literally watched his whole career. Now I’m a part of it. So it’s a great experience. I’m appreciative of it. But I’m part of the job, too. So I have to do my job as well. I got to lock in” - Bronny James on playing meaningful minutes with LeBron

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “It’s insane. I mean, I’ve literally watched his whole …

Dave McMenamin: Luke Kennard went from averaging 9.7 pts in 22.8 mins in the regular season to 15 pts in 33.3 mins per game in the playoffs in his 2nd year in DET because of injuries. “I've just kind of been thinking back to that and how I prepared,” Kennard said of his increased LAL role

x.com

Luke Kennard went from averaging 9.7 pts in 22.8 mins in the regular season to 15 pts in 33.3 mins per game in the playoffs in his 2nd year in DET because of injuries. “I've just kind of been thinking back to that and how I prepared,” Kennard said of his increased LAL role pic.twitter.com/NrckdTCXPx

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) April 16, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “I've just kind of been thinking back to that and how …

Dave McMenamin: “I don't feel much pressure going into this. … We still believe in what we have and who we're going to start the series with... And I think everybody believes in that. … Being maybe somewhat of an underdog with guys out, it kind of gives us this sense of freedom” - Luke Kennard

x.com

“I don't feel much pressure going into this. … We still believe in what we have and who we're going to start the series with... And I think everybody believes in that. … Being maybe somewhat of an underdog with guys out, it kind of gives us this sense of freedom” - Luke Kennard pic.twitter.com/iz3YH1W9bC

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) April 16, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “I don't feel much pressure going into this. … We …

Duane Rankin: Jordan Ott on Stephen Curry's 35-point blast in Warriors win over Clippers. “Looked like the same Steph Curry. You guard him for however many minutes you think you’re guarding him and then all the sudden, the explosion happens." On playing small: "It's always the balance, but I think Deni (Avdija) got in the paint no matter who we had in the game. His ability to drive is pretty unique. Tomorrow is a whole new geometry. It's a different team the way they attack offensively. Similar, they want to shoot a bunch of 3s and how they attack is way different. They run a lot of off-ball screens to free up Curry and then they just react off of his gravity. Tomorrow will be a different challenge and in-game, you always have to be willing to adjust. You have a plan going into it. Got to be willing to adjust. Again, it's all hands on deck." #Suns #DubNation

x.com

Jordan Ott on Stephen Curry's 35-point blast in Warriors win over Clippers. “Looked like the same Steph Curry. You guard him for however many minutes you think you’re guarding him and then all the sudden, the explosion happens."

On playing small: "It's always the balance, but I… pic.twitter.com/UuglL0hxuS

— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) April 16, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Jordan Ott on Stephen Curry's 35-point blast in …

Marc J. Spears: The NBA Mexico City Game 2026 will feature the Denver Nuggets and the Indiana Pacers playing a regular-season game at the Arena CDMX on Saturday, Nov. 7.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: NBA Mexico City Game 2026 will feature the Denver …

NEW YORK — There is an argument for paying and keeping Dexter Lawrence. There is also an argument for trading him being in the Giants’ best interest.

Why? Because John Harbaugh’s interest is now the Giants’ interest, and Harbaugh has arrived with fresh ideas on how to build a winner in New York — something no one has done with this franchise in a very long time.

Harbaugh is preaching the need for his players to be accountable, to love and prioritize football and to practice harder.

He doesn’t just want “relentless persistence;” he expects it. He demands it.

He is seeking full buy-in. And if anyone is not bought in, if anyone is trying to jump out of the boat and swim upstream while the rest of the Giants row forward in unison, it’s probably better off that Harbaugh weeds those issues out now.

Harbaugh also has spoken frequently in his first few months on the job about his program being a long-term and ongoing process, not just an overnight fix — even though he fully intends to try to put a field on the team in 2026 that can win.

Lawrence’s trade request, then, is Harbaugh’s first opportunity to provide an example of how he is going to accomplish the goals of holding this team to a higher standard and building the roster the right way.

The latest on Wednesday was that Lawrence and the Giants had “broken off” talks, per New York Daily News sources. So this is the $20 million a year head coach’s first big test to set the tone he wants in his locker room and throughout his building.

There are arguments to be made on both sides of how Harbaugh might proceed.

Keeping Lawrence and giving him a raise is defensible for several reasons: The defensive tackle is one of the biggest game-wreckers in the NFL when at top form. Harbaugh believes in having the strongest offensive and defensive lines possible. The NFL’s final four teams in its NFC and AFC championship games were the NFL’s top four teams at generating interior pressure on quarterbacks in the 2025 regular season.

Lawrence was one of the Giants’ three best players in 2022, the only time since 2016 that the Giants have gone to the playoffs. And paying Lawrence would set a new tone of taking care of the Giants’ own, homegrown draft picks. That would send a good message to a locker room that has soured on GM Joe Schoen in part due to his inability to do so with players like Saquon Barkley and Julian Love.

Trading Lawrence is defensible for Harbaugh here, too, though.

He has inherited a team that does not have significant draft capital for a losing roster in their current state. More draft picks would mean more young players who could be indoctrinated quickly into Harbaugh’s new program and set of expectations. Their controlled contracts could help steady the Giants’ salary cap.

Trading Lawrence would point the arrow on this team where Harbaugh continues to angle it: toward the future. Frankly, if the Giants are being realistic internally, that is where their most promising days lie: in 2027 and beyond, more than here in 2026.

There is no guarantee how many healthy games the Giants will get out of Malik Nabers and Cam Skattebo this fall, and a poorly managed salary cap has limited just how much work the Giants could do on this roster in the first place.

On top of all of that, Lawrence’s trade request indicates he is not all-in. At least not here. Not at the moment. Not in the way Harbaugh describes it.

The basis of Lawrence’s trade request is money, of course. But this is an elite player who is tired of losing. He is not interested in rebuilding. He has seen a lot of friends escape and win.

Last season’s country club workload for Lawrence from Schoen, Brian Daboll and the Giants’ training staff, on his way back from elbow surgery, also does not bode well for an adjustment to the grueling program Harbaugh is promising.

Honestly, Lawrence is an obvious candidate for a change of scenery and a fresh start doing him some good.

Harbaugh called out corner Paulson Adebo unprovoked for not showing up to the start of the Giants’ spring program, so imagine how he feels about a player like Lawrence saying out loud that he wants to be traded off the team.

One does not have to imagine too long. Harbaugh’s “everybody’s tradeable” comment one day after Lawrence’s trade request, in answer to a question about Kayvon Thibodeaux, was not a coincidence.

He values Lawrence as a player. He knows what he means to a defense and a team. He certainly knows he cannot trade Lawrence for pennies on the dollar.

But he also wants players who want to be here, who are bought in and who are committed to everything Harbaugh is preaching about working, building and showing up.

He now has to decide what tone he wants to set to start his regime with how he resolves this situation with Lawrence.

Playing hardball with Lawrence, dragging this deep into the summer, not adjusting his contract and fining him during training camp would be a worrisome way for Harbaugh and the Giants to proceed.

It would reflect they are prioritizing stubbornness and arrogance over the facts of the situation, something they have been known to do plenty in the past.

Paying or trading Lawrence, however, both make sense in their own right. What Harbaugh chooses will say everything about how he intends to run these new Giants.

This summer's ABC Conference has some notable items on the agenda.

The 2026 ABC Conference takes place Aug. 3-5 at Caribe Royal in Orlando after two days of official training courses. Although much will be discussed over the course of the three days, perhaps nothing more immediately impactful than potential changes to the Unified Rules of MMA.

While specific language and proposals are still being worked on, two changes are being heavily discussed that should go up for vote, California State Athletic Commission executive director Andy Foster said Thursday when asked by MMA Junkie. Foster serves on the ABC's Rules and Regulations committee.

The first potential change is clarifying language surrounding "vomiting." The rule, as written, indicates a fighter should be disqualified if he/she vomits during a round. However, an incident at UFC 326 in March raised several questions about the rule and the way it was written. When Xiao Long drilled former UFC champ Cody Garbrandt in the groin, it resulted in vomiting – but after referee Herb Dean called a timeout. Garbrandt was allowed to continue.

Dean told MMA Junkie on Thursday that he felt, without additional written context, the rule is too vague. More explicit language could outline vomit due to a foul (or between rounds due to overexertion) should be handled differently from vomit mid-round due to a legal blow.

The second potential change could prove more commonly impactful. The ABC plans to revisit the use of "intentional" and "accidental" when it comes to referee discretion of fouls. As the rule is written, if the referee thinks a fighter intentionally fouled their opponent, rendering that opponent unable to continue, it's a disqualification. If the foul was accidental, it's a no contest.

However, a shift from these "must" designations could remove some impossible mind-reading, Foster and Dean explained. Rather than use the intentional vs accidental grouping buckets, referees could use their discretion based on the situation, to deem the fight a disqualification, a no contest, or, if past the majority of scorable rounds, bring the fight to a judges' decision with or without a point deduction. This could also combat situations where a fighter may dramatize the effects of a foul to draw a disqualification.

Should changes be made to the language in these two sections of the Unified Rules of MMA, ABC commissions will begin to implement them in the months that follow. Nothing will be final until they are voted in at the annual conference.

Rule changes are one of many things that will be discussed when commission heads and members meet in Orlando. Also on the agenda are guest speakers, medical presentations, committee updates, and more.

The full 2026 ABC Annual Conference agenda can be viewed here (subject to change).

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Two MMA rules could change this summer

NEW YORK -- Brooklyn Nets head coach Jordi Fernandez earned his first head-coaching job two years ago when he signed on to lead a Nets team that is building for the future. Brooklyn chose Fernandez due in part to his background in player development and working with young players, but he explained how the past couple of years have been trying for him as a competitor.

"You don’t know how you’re going to deal with your emotions until you have to go through it. I remember getting the job and some people were like, 'Oh, it's going to be hard. It's not going to be easy'. I always have a positive mindset about it," Fernandez said during his exit interview on Monday when asked about how he's dealt with the losing seasons. The Nets are 46-118 (.280) over the past two seasons amidst the current rebuild.

"I'm like, 'Oh, no. We'll be OK'. It's really hard because you want to go out there and win and a lot of the times you feel like you can beat [the opposing team] and you play well enough," Fernandez continued. "I can give you a million examples, right? Boston [Celtics] overtime game or Orlando [Magic] or the [Los Angeles] Lakers, all these games and you're right there. As a coach, you want to help them take those steps."

Fernandez, 43, began his NBA coaching career in 2016 as an assistant for the Denver Nuggets and the Sacramento Kings before joining the Nets prior to the 2024-25 campaign. After Fernandez joined Brooklyn in April of 2024, the Nets traded Mikal Bridges to the New York Knicks two months later in July, indicating that the franchise was headed into a full rebuild to maximize their chances of bringing franchise-altering talent.

Fernandez had a massive undertaking coming into this season as he and his coaching staff had to coach and develop five rookies at the same time while trying to win as many games as possible. Nets general manager Sean Marks has a plan of building through the Draft and while Brooklyn will be losing more games than desired in the meantime, Fernandez took the chance to explain what he goes through to prepare for the role.

This article originally appeared on Nets Wire: Nets' Jordi Fernandez explains challenge of coaching rebuilding team

The San Francisco 49ers made the postseason in 2025, but after upsetting the Philadelphia Eagles in the wild-card round, they fell to the eventual Super Bowl-champion Seattle Seahawks, ending their run in the divisional round.

So far this offseason, the 49ers have worked deliberately to bring in talented players at positions of need, including Mike Evans, Christian Kirk and Osa Odighizuwa. However, there's still more work to do.

The next stage of the offseason is the 2026 NFL draft, where San Francisco has just six picks to make, and they all come in the first four rounds. With that, they need to make sure they're targeting positions of need, and on Thursday, ESPN's Benjamin Solak had some sound advice for the team.

"Complete the defensive reload with another splashy edge and a starting safety. Don't chase the flashy receiver when the meat-and-potatoes offensive lineman is there," Solak advised.

The 49ers will get Nick Bosa and 2025 first-round pick Mykel Williams back from torn ACLs on the edge, but the surprising loss of Bryce Huff to retirement definitely leaves them needing some help in that room.

At safety, San Francisco seems confident in Malik Mustapha, but if they can upgrade at the other spot from Ji'Ayir Brown and Marques Sigle, they might take that swing.

Meanwhile, that beefy offensive lineman might be their biggest need, as the departures of Ben Bartch and Spencer Burford have left the 49ers with Connor Colby, Robert Jones, Brett Toth and Nick Zakelj competing for the starting left guard job. That's not exactly ideal.

More 49ers: 7 trades 49ers can make to accumulate more draft picks for 2026

This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 2026 NFL draft: ESPN analyst offers sound advice for 49ers

Bright lights, big stage, same LeBron.

Unmoved by postseason pressure, superstar LeBron James said he doesn’t plan to change his preparation ahead of the Lakers’ playoff opener against the Houston Rockets on Saturday. Approaching his record-tying 19th postseason appearance, James has reason to believe in his well-established routine.

“Nothing changes for me from the regular season to the postseason,” James said, “besides just making even more heightened focus.”

The consistent approach that guided him through 23 regular seasons puts James in position to star in another high-stakes game as the Lakers (53-29) chase the franchise’s 18th NBA championship. James will command almost the entire spotlight with guards Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves still sidelined.

The 41-year-old, 22-time All-Star has never had a problem with being a leading man.

“I think a lot of the great players, the best players, what they're addicted to is being the showman,” Lakers coach JJ Redick said, referencing Stephen Curry’s fourth-quarter heroics that pushed the Golden State Warriors over the Clippers in a thrilling play-in game Wednesday night. “And being on the stage and giving a performance. …

Read more:Luka Doncic eligible for NBA's postseason awards after league, NBPA rule in his favor

"One of the reasons they're great and they're able to be the showman so consistently is because they recognize [that] to be the showman, I have to do all the things necessary to then go on stage and perform at my best. And that's the commitment with LeBron that I've talked about so often.”

The stage is set for a star-studded first-round series with James and Houston’s Kevin Durant. The Rockets' superstar rose to fifth on the NBA’s all-time scoring list this season. He and James, the league’s all-time leading scorer, have 76,037 combined regular-season points, more than the rest of the Lakers' roster combined (57,341).

“He’s the head of the snake,” James said of Durant. “But it’s the Houston Rockets and they have some damned good players on that team.”

Durant has the support of two-time NBA All-Star center Alperen Sengun, who is averaging 20.4 points, 8.9 rebounds and 6.2 assists per game. James leads the Lakers alone. They’re without Doncic (hamstring) and Reaves (oblique) indefinitely.

Since Doncic and Reaves were injured, James assumed the primary role in the Lakers' offense and has delivered 25.5 points, 11 assists and 6.8 rebounds per game. Battling the emotional toll of Doncic’s and Reaves’ injuries, James set the tone for the Lakers’ strong finish to the regular season with his vocal leadership and strong play, Redick said. His teammates are falling in line.

“He’s been in the playoffs I don’t know how many times,” Lakers guard Bronny James said. “So he’s won series, won Finals, I think we just need to have our mind open and ears open and listen to whatever he says because he knows the most."

After years of competing against each other in the NBA and with each other on the international stage, Durant said earlier this season that the Miami Heat version of James was the hardest player he's ever had to guard. James said every version of Durant feels like an impossible matchup.

The 37-year-old scores in bunches and does it efficiently, Redick said. Durant hasn’t shot worse than 50% from the field in a season since 2011-12. Now in his 18th season, Durant played the second-most total minutes of any player this season, trailing only 23-year-old teammate Amen Thompson.

“He’s a guard in a big man’s body,” Lakers guard Marcus Smart said. “I’m 6-3 and he’s 7-foot so he has that advantage and that’s what makes it tough, because he’ll shoot right over top of you it seems. But playing him the years that I have played him — and last month — it definitely gives you insight of what to expect.”

Durant averaged 18 points, 5.5 rebounds and three assists in two losses to the Lakers in March. He shot 55.6% from the field but had 11 total turnovers. The Lakers, who often double-teamed Durant to take the ball out of his hands, forced 36 turnovers in the two wins.

The Lakers expect the same defensive pressure from the Rockets, who are ranked sixth defensively. Guards Reed Sheppard and Thompson both rank in the top 10 in the league in total steals with 122 and 119, respectively.

Smart and guard Luke Kennard have taken larger ball-handling responsibilities along with James to offset the loss of Doncic and Reaves. Bronny James is in line for rotation minutes in the Lakers’ shorthanded backcourt. The 21-year-old guard has played in 10 consecutive games, the longest stretch of his young NBA career, averaging 6.6 points, two assists and a steal with seven-for-17 shooting from three-point range in the five games since Doncic and Reaves were injured.

Read more:Deandre Ayton knows the Lakers need him to be his best in the playoffs

Getting to share the court with his son, whether in regular-season games, practice or now the postseason, is “the best thing that’s ever happened to me in my career,” the elder James said.

With his future unknown beyond this season, James pledged all season to stay in the moment. The Lakers hope to make this postseason one last.

“The moment is all we have,” James said. “At the end of the day, that’s all that matters.”

Sign up for our weekly newsletter on all things Lakers.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

They say a week is a long time in football - never mind an entire decade.

It is exactly 10 years since Aston Villa were relegated to English football's second tier for the first time since 1987 after a 1-0 loss at Manchester United.

It was their ninth consecutive league defeat during a 13-game winless run that ended their miserable 2015-16 season, which left the 1982 European Cup winners facing a largely uncertain future under their American owner Randy Lerner.

They then spent three long seasons in the Championship before finally returning to the top flight for the 2019-20 campaign, but were still struggling for identity and direction until the arrival of Unai Emery.

Fast forward to Thursday and you could argue that Villa are now back among Europe's elite.

A commanding 7-1 aggregate win over Bologna sealed their place in the Europa League semi-final with minimum fuss at Villa Park. And it barely registered as a momentous occasion - a marker of progress achieved under Emery, who has transformed the club and raised standards and expectations in recent seasons.

This is Villa's second European semi-final in three seasons under the Spanish manager, following a Conference League run in 2023-24, and comes after a Champions League quarter-final appearance last season.

"If someone told me we'd be fighting for the Champions League and in a semi-final of the Europa League a couple of years ago I'd have bitten their hand off," said Ollie Watkins, who scored three goals over two legs against Bologna.

"So we are just trying to take it all in and enjoy the process," Villa's latest member of the 100-goal club told TNT Sports.

They are also firmly in the Premier League top-five race, sitting in fourth place with six games remaining and targeting a return to the Champions League via the league.

A European semi-final against Nottingham Forest now awaits them, and 10 years on from the despair of relegation, this feels like the new normal for Villa under Emery.

"Villa was perfect tonight, every player played their part and they are deservedly going through to the semi-final," their former midfielder Stiliyan Petrov told TNT Sports.

"They fully deserve to enjoy this moment as they worked really hard. It is about believing and I think these players do now believe that they can make it to that final."

'We have learned something each year'

Emery replaced Steven Gerrard as Villa manager in October 2022 with Villa hovering just above the relegation zone on goal difference.

The former Arsenal and Villarreal boss brought with him his own backroom staff, with many of the old guard departing.

Former Sevilla goalkeeper Monchi also joined as Villa's president of football operations in June 2023 - having previously worked with Emery at Sevilla and winning three Europa League titles together.

Emery immediately made an impact, imposing structure, clarity and belief on a Villa side that was once again flirting with relegation to guide them to a top‑seven finish and European qualification in his first season.

The following campaign proved the progress was no fluke.

Turning Villa Park into a fortress, they established themselves as a top‑four contender during 2023-24 while also reaching the semi-finals of the Conference League, where they were beaten 6-2 on aggregate by Olympiakos.

"The first year we got here in the Conference League, a lot of us hadn't played in Europe so when we got to the latter stages there was a lot of pressure," Watkins said.

"Each year we've learned and taken something from it. And to trust the manager because he's so experienced in this competition. He's won it numerous times so we believe in what he tells us and keep going."

A first taste of top-tier European competition since 1982-83 came last season when they reached the Champions League quarter-finals against Emery's former side Paris St-Germain.

And on their way to the last eight, they posted memorable league-stage wins against Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig while also holding Juventus to a goalless draw.

And this season's run on the continental stage further underlines their upward trajectory under the Spaniard.

"It's an amazing achievement for us to progress to the semi-finals and to go one step further than last year in the Champions League," Watkins said.

"We're really enjoying being in this competition and this is where we want to be, in the semi-finals."

Emery told TNT Sports: "I'm very happy. We were organised and tried to impose our ideas and style, which is not easy against Bologna."

"We are so happy with the way we are performing in this competition. It was fantastic. We are in the semi-finals, but there is still work to do."

• Villa & Forest progress - relive eight iconic all-English European ties
• Champions League in the Championship? Forest's juggling act goes on
• How 10 Premier League teams could still qualify for Europe

'It will be very difficult against Forest'

Villa are under no illusions about the challenge ahead as they head into the semi-final against Forest as tournament favourites.

Forest earned their place in their first European semi-final since1984 with a 1-0 win against 10-man Porto in the second leg.

Despite Forest being involved in a relegation battle domestically, Villa know their opponents' resilience first hand having been held to a 1-1 draw by Vitor Pereira's side last weekend.

"It's a really exciting time for me personally and the team collectively," said Watkins, who scored his 100th goal for the club in all competitions on Thursday.

We've come out the sticky period and we've got it all to play for. But it's going to be difficult.

"We've played [Forest] twice already this season and it's not been easy. But we focus on each game and enjoy the process."

Emery also echoed Watkins' caution when looking ahead to the all-English last-four contest.

"Now we will play in a semi-final and it will be very difficult against Forest," he said.

The first leg of their last-four tie against Forest will be played in Nottingham on 30 April before the return leg in Birmingham on 7 May.

Win that, and a European final in Istanbul awaits against either Portugal's Braga face Bundesliga side Freiburg on 20 May.

And Forest will very much fancy their chances to end a 30-year trophy drought in the Turkish city and add to their 1982 European triumph, under Emery who has already won the competition four times before.

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Former Texas A&M wide receiver KC Concepcion wanted to make two things clear in his article for The Players' Tribune: he's the best wide receiver in the 2026 NFL draft class, and his stutter does not define him.

Concepcion began his piece, titled “A Letter to NFL GMs,” with a bold declaration.

“Dear NFL GMs, 

By now you’ve probably heard that I stutter. Everyone has. And look, I get it. It’s a good story. I’m not mad at it. And I appreciate the love. But every time I’ve sat down for an interview that’s where we start, and that’s where we end. The stutter. The stutter. The stutter.

My stutter is part of who I am, but it’s not all of who I am. So, I figured … since I’ve got the pen this time, let me tell you the more complete story.

Here’s who I also am: I’m the best receiver in this draft. Period.”

He then made his case for being the best receiver in the nation, citing his “crisp routes” and his ability to “catch everything thrown near me.” He also takes pride in his work ethic, saying, “I work my tail off every practice, every drill. I get in and out of my breaks fast. And I will outwork ANYBODY you put in front of me.”

Concepcion has been a star for as long as he can remember, recalling a 350-rushing-yard, 7-touchdown game in the U10 championship against the Bulldogs, who were something of a youth league dynasty, according to KC. What he remembered most, however, was the feeling afterward.

“It felt amazing to have everybody congratulating me and hugging me and giving me high fives. It was teammates, classmates, parents, coaches, players on the other team, referees, just like everyone. It was all love. And I’ll never forget how good that felt.

“But by far the best part was seeing my mom’s face in that moment. How happy she was. She’d been with me from the very beginning — through every hard day, every afternoon I came home beat down, every moment I felt hopeless. She never lost faith. Not once. And her smile on that day meant everything to me. It was like she realized I had done what she told me. I hadn’t given up. I kept going.”

With the relentless support of his mom and years of hard work, KC finally overcame the limits his stutter used to impose on him. He shouted out to his mom, “You helped me get through the rough patches and reach a place where … by the time high school rolled around, nobody was thinking about how I spoke. They were too busy watching what I could do on the field.”

Indeed, we have been busy watching Concepcion on the field. A North Carolina native, he spent his first two seasons at NC State, tallying an absurd 1159 yards from scrimmage and 10 touchdowns on 71 receptions in his freshman season. After a sophomore slump on a Wolfpack team that took a step back as a whole, finishing 6-7 and 3-5 in ACC play, Concepcion took his talents to College Station.

The Aggies had a brand new receiving corps last season, adding Mario Craver through the portal and elevating Ashton Bethel-Roman into a real WR3 role. As the X receiver, Concepcion shone at Texas A&M with 919 yards for an SEC-high 9 receiving touchdowns on 61 receptions. He also rushed for one TD, returned two punts for TDs, finished the season as an All-American, won the Paul Hornung award for most versatile player in college football, and is projected to be drafted in the late first/early second round.

Of course, Concepcion isn’t satisfied. He believes he is the best receiver in the draft, not in the top 5-8, as most analysts rank him. He won’t be the first WR off the board, and there’s a real chance he has to wait a day to hear his name called. But he wants GMs to give their consideration just one more time.

“There are a lot of great receivers in this year’s draft. But I promise you this: Everything I’ve been through didn’t just shape me … it’s still in me. Every rep, every route, every time I refuse to quit … that’s where it comes from. Draft me and you get all of that. I’ll put it up against anybody in this class. Any day. Any field. You’re getting someone who has been through it. Someone who knows how to keep going when things get hard. Because things have always been hard. But I’m still here.

“Before I get out of here, I do want to say, once again, for all to hear, that I’m the best receiver in this draft. But, at the end of the day, I’m so much more than just a football player. And any team that picks me is going to realize that immediately. So if you’re a GM out there reading this, put me on your team, and let’s get to work.”

Read the full article by KC Concepcion at The Players' Tribune

Read part two on Concepcion's character, which is not defined by his stutter

Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Sam on X:@Smallred25

This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: KC Concepcion makes his case as a top pick in Players' Tribune piece

Florida football added its seventh commitment for the 2027 recruiting cycle on Thursday with a verbal pledge from three-star tight end Tommy Douglas.

The 6-foot-4, 235-pound prospect out of Princeton (New Jersey) Hun School chose Florida from a list of 25 total offers, including six other SEC schools — most notably the Vanderbilt Commodores and Alabama Crimson Tide, who had 10.9% and 9.3% chances to land him, respectively, according to Rivals. The Penn State Nittany Lions (18.1%) had led the way while Florida only had a 4.2% chance before the commitment was announced.

Douglas made a multi-day trip to Gainesville at the end of March during spring practice season and had otherwise kept his recruitment low-key until the announcement.

The Garden State product played more on the defensive side of the ball earlier in his prep career, but a breakout during his junior year, in which he hauled in 33 receptions for 640 yards and seven touchdowns, cemented him as an offensive talent.

The young prospect is the son of Joe Douglas, who is currently the senior personnel director for the Philadelphia Eagles. Florida's current General Manager, Dave Caldwell, held that same job for the Eagles from 2022 to 2025 before coming to Gainesville; Tommy's father had served in a senior scouting role during that stretch.

The younger Douglas joins fellow three-star tight end Jackson Ballinger in Florida's 2027 class, among others — the rest of whom are all blue-chip recruits.

Tommy Douglas' recruiting summary

Douglas is ranked No. 426 overall and No. 26 at his position nationally according to the 247Sports composite, while the Rivals industry ranking has him at Nos. 679 and 35, respectively.

Director of scouting for 247Sports, Andrew Ivins, reports that he is a "skilled tight end that can make an impact in both the run game and the pass game" who "moves with smooth tempo as a route runner and can separate with quick feet" and "plucks passes away from body and adjusts for off-target passes with his coordination."

He also notes that Douglas "brings his hard hat as a blocker as he strikes defenders and works to finish" and "could emerge as a true in-line Y, but looks more like a natural H/F that can be positioned around the formation and leak into space when he’s not setting the edge."

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

This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Florida football recruiting gets commitment from TE Tommy Douglas

In the past few weeks of the NFL offseason, the New Orleans Saints have had some moves go in their favor, while others have left them reeling at certain positions. Losing Demario Davis and Alontae Taylor put them in a difficult spot initially, though the signing of Kaden Elliss relieved one of the two setbacks. Now, all eyes are on a potential third major loss for the defense, as Cameron Jordan remains a free agent into the middle of April -- at least for the time being.

Jordan, entering year 16 of an illustrious career with the Saints, is looking for what could be one last major payday in his career, posting a strong 10.5 sacks in 2025 and showcasing that he never lost his touch. For now, though, he is spending his time abroad, in a family vacation to Japan ahead of one of the most major decisions of his long NFL career. It isn't new for them. Jordan and his wife Nikki took their children to Spain for a couple of months back in 2023.

Needless we are in love with Tokyo’s fish markets we visited this am pic.twitter.com/t6Df6zc7uw

— Cam Jordan (@camjordan94) April 14, 2026

But 👀Nobody’s playing rn. Lol. Draft weekend coming up. 👀👀 I love watching and commenting on the draft. Lol imma come back to America to watch it. Hosting a pickleball tourney next weekend. But for now 😁 I’m making sushi pic.twitter.com/yzkLQqT59X

— Cam Jordan (@camjordan94) April 16, 2026

Viiibin in harajuku https://t.co/R5EvdoDTbOpic.twitter.com/RNezIxJb24

— Cam Jordan (@camjordan94) April 13, 2026

Matcha everything over here #japanpic.twitter.com/VDp9Q14rYF

— Cam Jordan (@camjordan94) April 11, 2026

👀 We chop, choppin over here pic.twitter.com/yCepXQ6YIg

— Cam Jordan (@camjordan94) April 9, 2026

It would truly be a shame if Jordan were to leave New Orleans this late into a career that has kept him here for so long, especially when things are finally turning around for the franchise after a few tough years. It will be up to the front office to offer him what he is asking for if they wish to retain him, and with the defensive end position still in need of his services alongside Chase Young and Carl Granderson, he should still be looked at as a must-retain.

Odds are, he will wait until after the NFL Draft at this point to sign his deal, waiting to see how teams shape up prior to the 2026 season, giving him an opportunity to see how everything shakes out. With many mock drafts having the Saints select defensive end or edge, though, it could be a big logjam if that plays out as many anticipate it could.

This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Cameron Jordan: Saints free agency can wait during vacation to Japan

Betfred Super League

Hull FC (12) 14

Tries: Moy, Bourouh Goals: Hardaker 3

St Helens (6) 24

Tries: Davies, Stephens, Feldt, Robertson Goals: Sailor 4

St Helens went top of Super League after a second half comeback saw them topple Hull FC at the MKM Stadium.

Trailing by six points at the break, Saints upped the ante after the break with tries from Noah Stephens, Kyle Feldt and Harry Robertson seeing them home.

Hull came out firing on the back of the upheaval at the club following the shock news that head coach John Cartwright was being let go at the end of the season.

The response from his team was an emotional one but in the end Saints had the class and composure to come through for their sixth league win of the season.

Whether Cartwright will see out the rest of April never mind the rest of the season has to be in serious doubt.

The crowd gave him a warm ovation near the end - in contrast to the boos from home fans unhappy at Cartwright's treatment when Hull FC chief executive Richie Myler was shown on the big screen.

But Cartwright's situation is an uncomfortable one, knowing he is not wanted long term and he was fighting back the tears afterwards.

His players showed their loyalty with an intense start that saw Logan Moy give Hull an 11th minute lead with a try in the left-hand corner from a lovely pass by Zak Hardaker.

Saints struck back through teenager Jake Davies who stepped over from Jackson Hastings' pass for his first Super League try nine minutes later.

But a combination of the courageous Hull defence close to their own line and Saints' indiscipline prevented the visitors pushing on in the first half and hooker Amir Bourouh forced his way over in the 28th minute to restore the home side's lead.

The second half though was a different story. Seven minutes into the second half Saints tied things up through Noah Stephens.

Hastings had a try disallowed for obstruction in the build-up from Alex Walmsley as St Helens began to get into their stride.

But just after the hour mark Kyle Feldt put Saints ahead after a delicate chip from Tristan Sailor.

Then when Hardaker spilled possession, Harry Robertson cashed in to go over with some terrific footwork with six minutes left, to seal victory.

Saints' Deon Cross will miss next week's game against Wakefield Trinity after failing an Head Injury Assessment after an accidental clash with Hull loanee Harry Newman.

Hull will be without Sam Lisone long-term with a torn bicep.

Hull head coach John Cartwright told BBC Radio Humberside:

"I'm really disappointed for the players that they didn't get a result. They gave their everything.

"I'm so proud of the playing group. There were another couple of injuries tonight but whoever we put out there just keeps turning up.

"Everyone we come [up] against it's a battle, we give the opposition a fight, but we are just lacking that little bit of class to get over the line."

On his immediate future:

"I don't know. I've got a couple of meetings early next week and then we'll be a little but clearer where we go from there.

"It's a difficult one. I certainly don't want to let that playing group down but sometimes these things are not in your hands.

I don't want to talk about it too much because it's the unknown. I'll be a little bit clearer next week."

St Helens head coach Paul Rowley told BBC Radio Merseyside:

"It was a gritty performance I would say. We had to find a different way. Credit to Hull, what they did defensively challenged us, but we found our rhythm in the second half. We've done it tough and we deserved that result.

"We knew it would be an emotional night and that would add to the start in particular that Hull would produce and they did just that so no surprises there.

"John [Cartwright] is a good bloke and he works hard. As coaches we all have sympathy and empathy for everyone's situation but we know what the job is about."

Hull FC: Moy; Briscoe, Newman, Litten, Martin; Cust, Sezer; Hill, Bourouh, Sao, Bailey, Hardaker, Bell.

Interchanges: Aydin, Fash, Laidlaw, Lisone.

St Helens: Sailor; Feldt, Cross, Robertson, Dagnall; Whitby, Hastings; Lees, Clark, Klemmer, Whitley, Davies, Shorrocks.

Interchanges: Walmsley, Stephens, Delaney, Humphreys.

Referee: James Vella.

Asterisk Talley happens to be a member at El Caballero Country Club, site of this week's JM Eagle LA Championship. It's the start of a two-week swing on the LPGA for the 17-year-old high school junior, who opened with an eventful 2-under 70 that included five birdies, a bogey and a double-bogey.

Both Talley and Canadian teen Aphrodite Deng, the top two juniors in the AJGA rankings, are playing the event on sponsor invitations.

"I know it like the back of my hand now," said Talley of El Cab, the site of her runner-up finish at the 2024 U.S. Girls' Junior.

After experiencing heartbreak at the Augusta National Women's Amateur, Talley went back to high school and watched the Masters during class, when she was done with her homework, of course.

"I thought the course played a lot different than when we played," said Talley. "Some of the shots they hit they would just bounce and roll off the greens. I was like, that was not the conditions that we had."

After this week, Talley heads to Texas for the LPGA's first major of the season, the Chevron Championship at Memorial Park in Houston. Talley will play the event on a sponsor exemption, as she did last year. She was extended the invitation last Wednesday.

ANWA champion Maria Jose Marin was exempt into the Chevron field based on her win at Augusta but has elected not to compete with the SEC Championship taking place at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida, at the same time.

Japan's Chizzy Iwai started off on the back nine Thursday at El Cab and shot 29 with five straight birdies and an eagle on Nos. 11-16.

"A little bit thinking 58 or 9 score," said Iwai, "But golf is not easy."

Chizzy Iwai is tearing through El Cab 😵‍💫 pic.twitter.com/pOs0CrkRfC

— LPGA (@LPGA) April 16, 2026

She then cooled off on her second nine, carding a 9-under 63 to lead the field. Iwai hit 17 greens and took 27 putts.

Two-time JM Eagle winner Hannah Green opened with a 67. The Aussie won three consecutive events earlier this year, including the HSBC Women's World Championship in Singapore, Australian Open and Australian WPGA.

 "Just feel very comfortable when I'm back here in L.A.," said Green, who won twice at Wilshire Country Club in 2023 and 2024.

This article originally appeared on Golfweek: Asterisk Talley to play Chevron Championship, ANWA champ declines

Only a couple of days remain until the Oklahoma City Thunder start their 2026 NBA playoff journey. If they hope to go back-to-back, the first of four opponents will be against either the Phoenix Suns or the Golden State Warriors.

It's another play-in tournament week where the Thunder wait around to figure out their next opponent. It's the rare downside to getting the first seed. But at this point, OKC should be used to this routine with its third straight year as the West's No. 1 seed.

Going back-to-back would put Shai Gilgeous-Alexander into some all-time conversations. Already one of the NBA's faces of the 2020s, he could pencil his name next to guys like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant with another repeat of last year's achievement — if he's not there already.

Despite what's at stake, Gilgeous-Alexander is playing it cool about the appeal of another championship ring. He knows we're still a ways away from now and reaching that point. The next couple of months will take years off most folks' lives just from the pure stress.

"It's not much. It’s a cool opportunity. I think going through last year and realizing that’s so far down the line. So many things have to happen before we get to the Finals-clinching game," Gilgeous-Alexander said. "It's cool. It's an opportunity. To have the opportunity to repeat means we've won before, so it's cool. So many things have to go our way."

Probably the right mindset to have. Looking that far ahead is exactly how you get bounced early in the NBA playoffs. Granted, the Thunder's path looks considerably easier this year compared to last — at least on paper. They'll be heavily favored against whoever emerges as the eighth seed. And then what awaits them is a depleted Los Angeles Lakers or inconsistent Houston Rockets.

By the time the Western Conference Finals roll around, the Thunder should face either a beaten-up San Antonio Spurs or Denver Nuggets. Of course, let's see how things actually play out. There's a reason basketball is played on the court and not on paper. But it's easy to say that the playoff bracket has broken right for OKC.

This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander plays it cool about OKC's back-to-back hopes

Florida State hosted 2028 blue-chip athlete Za'Kari Johnson for an unofficial visit back in September when they played the East Texas A&M Lions. The very next day, the Seminoles extended him an offer.

The 6-foot-1, 190-pounder was back on campus in January for a Junior Day event. As things stand currently, Johnson has three schools that are setting the pace in his recruitment.

"Miami, Florida State and Syracuse," Johnson told Noles247.

As a sophomore, Johnson made an impact on both sides of the ball at Plantation High School. He finished with 551 passing yards with seven touchdowns to three interceptions while racking up 777 rushing yards and nine scores on the ground offensively. On defense, Johnson registered 10 tackles, one interception (ran back for a score), four pass breakups, and one fumble recovery.

In terms of his recruitment at FSU, safeties coach Evan Cooper is at the forefront and the main reason why they have the top spot.

"Florida State, coach Coop [safeties coach Evan Cooper] talks to me almost every day," said Johnson. "I've been talking to the offensive coordinator [Tim Harris Jr.]. I talk to almost all of the coaches there."

247Sports doesn't have a ranking for Johnson. Rivals' industry rankings have him listed as the nation's No. 280 prospect, the No. 13 athlete, and the No. 34 player in the state of Florida.

Contact/Follow us @FSUWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida State news, notes and opinions. You can also follow Matthew on X @StarConscience

This article originally appeared on FSU Wire: FSU Football: Za'Kari Johnson names Florida State his top school

In the NFL, there is simply no such thing as too much pass rush depth. The Seattle Seahawks were an absolute force of nature up front, with Leonard Williams, DeMarcus Lawrence, Uchenna Nwosu and Byron Murphy II terrorizing opposing linemen on an every-down basis. The addition of Lawrence, who turned back the clock for a resurgent season, helped push this unit over the top. Perhaps the Seahawks could be adding another former Cowboys defensive end.

On Thursday, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the Seahawks hosted Dante Fowler for a free agent visit. Fowler, who will be entering his 11th season in the NFL should he suit up this fall, just finished playing on a one-year deal with the Cowboys.

Fowler was originally the No. 3 overall pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2015 NFL draft, and he has bounced around the league over the past decade. He was eventually traded to the Los Angeles Rams in 2018 where he participated in their Super Bowl LIII loss to the New England Patriots. After a season and a half in LA, Fowler spent two years with the Atlanta Falcons, two years with the Dallas Cowboys, one year with the Washington Commanders, and back to the Cowboys in 2025.

He recorded 15 total tackles and three sacks in all 17 games played for Dallas last year, but is also one year removed from a 10.5 sack campaign with the Commanders. From my estimation, there is still plenty of gas left in the tank for Fowler, especially in a rotational role. Seattle lost Boye Mafe to the Cincinnati Bengals in free agency, and Fowler would be one of the better options to replace him with.

Additionally, Fowler played for two years under Seahawks defensive coordinator Aden Durde, who was Dallas' defensive line coach. And of course, he is familiar with former teammate DeMarcus Lawrence.

This article originally appeared on Seahawks Wire: NFL free agency: Seahawks met with former Cowboys DE Dante Fowler

Welcome to fatherhood, Jiri Prochazka.

On Thursday, the former UFC light heavyweight champion shared the first photos of his newborn daughter, Eleonora, and some emotional words on the life-changing event, which came less than a week after he suffered a knockout loss to Carlos Ulberg in their vacant title fight last Saturday at UFC 327.

Prochazka wrote on X:

GOD BLESS 🙏

PURE, PURE POWER of love to the New born Eleonora, the firstborn daughter and her mother who today showed immense strength that I never knew she had. 🙏

Second:Till the End of this week I’ll do some comment for the bullshit I see here in social about my last fight, other hyenas around, and next step.

Main point in fight and also in LifeStay true to what you believe in, and be ready to FIGHT FOR IT and SACRIFICE WHATEVER YOU HAVE TO.

THIS FOR SURE WAS MY TITLE FIGHT OF LIFE AND I FEEL LIKE IAMTHECHAMPION 🙏⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️

GOD BLESS 🙏

PURE, PURE POWER of love to the New born Eleonora, the firstborn daughter and her mother who today showed immense strength that I never knew she had. 🙏

Second:
Till the End of this week I’ll do some comment for the bullshit I see here in social about my last… pic.twitter.com/aGrFW9BeCI

— Jiri BJP Prochazka (@jiri_bjp) April 16, 2026

More: Mick Maynard's Shoes: What's next for Jiri Prochazka after UFC 327 loss?

In the buildup to UFC 327, Prochazka was candid about the motivation he felt as he and his girlfriend expected their first child.

"A lot. A lot," Prochazka said in a pre-fight interview with MMA Junkie. "Maybe I'm not realizing it yet, but I feel the power. Really feel something that's in the beyond, behind the feelings, behind the emotions. There is something that is stronger than I ever, ever, ever met before. I can tell, and it's not the reason. It's really something that was here, and every time we have a call with my girlfriend every day, we are doing, like, special breathing stuff together to keep ourselves in connection, so every time I see her belly, like, I can't explain. I can't explain right now, but yeah."

Even though Prochazka failed to reclaim the light heavyweight title in his third attempt at UFC 327, he clearly has perspective on what's important right now in his life –and that's being a father.

Congrats, champ.

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Jiri Prochazka announces birth of newborn daughter days after UFC 327

The Baltimore Ravens are entering a new era, and it's now official with the soon-to-be-unveiled 'Next Flight' uniform collection. For the first time in more than 26 years, the franchise is introducing a fresh look, signaling both a visual and cultural shift as Baltimore prepares for the 2026 season. Baltimore has added an alternate 'Purple Rising helmet for one game each season, and the new design was met with praise and excitement from fans and players alike. On Thursday, they'll debut the 'Next Flight" uniforms, and the new threads will go on sale on Friday, April 17.

On Thursday morning, the team released a video teaser for the uniform drops, but the player's reaction provides some insight into what Nike has in store for fans. Ravens players like Lamar Jackson, Zay Flowers, and Head Coach Jesse Minter reacted to 'The Next Flight' new uniform collection dropping Thursday night.

"From the outset, our objective was clear: evolve a uniform that has become iconic, and only move forward if we could truly make it better," Senior Vice President of Marketing Brad Downs said. "After more than two years of design, iteration, and collaboration, we believe we've done just that—delivering a look that feels both modern and unmistakably Ravens."

The Ravens have 12 uniform combinations, and it's unknown whether this new reveal has been in the works for years or is part of Nike's Rivalries uniforms, which will celebrate storied local traditions and unite fan communities with designs unique to select cities and teams.

From design details and player reactions to fan response, we'll have everything covered as Baltimore officially takes flight into its next chapter. This is a live tracker for the reveal, bringing you real-time updates, reactions, and photos as the Ravens showcase their new uniforms.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens to debut new uniforms for the first time in 26-years

The Los Angeles Rams have the opportunity to use their No. 13 overall pick on an immediate impact player without even having to worry about who they’ll draft.

In a new mock draft from The Ringer’s Danny Heifetz, the Rams make another bold trade by moving their first-round pick and a 2027 first-round pick for Las Vegas Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby.

The Rams were reportedly “keeping tabs” on Crosby before he was traded and then not traded to the Baltimore Ravens, so it’s certainly within the realm of possibility that L.A. pulls this off. Two first-round picks is a lot, but in this scenario they don’t give up any of their other young players and maintain a fully-loaded defense for another Super Bowl run.

And at the end of the day, that’s really all general manager Les Snead and head coach Sean McVay should be aiming for in 2026. The No. 13 pick (and likely late-first-round 2027 pick) likely won’t serve the team as much as the addition of Crosby, who had 10 sacks in 2025 and 69.5 in his career.

The alternatives for the Rams at No. 13 are a third receiver, a backup offensive lineman or quarterback Ty Simpson. Crosby is much more valuable than those options.

The drawbacks are minimal but not nothing. Crosby would join a loaded defensive line group between Braden Fiske, Jared Verse, Byron Young and Josaiah Stewart. He will also cost the Rams $30.7 million in 2026 and $29.7 million guaranteed in 2027, per Spotrac, with additional $27 million-plus nonguaranteed cap hits in 2028 and 2029.

Losing a 2027 first also doesn’t leave much flexibility for the Rams in finding their eventual replacement for Matthew Stafford — either in the draft or via another veteran trade.

Trading for Crosby would be bold, but not out of the ordinary for the Snead-McVay contingent.

This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Rams trade for star Maxx Crosby in new 2026 mock draft

The first round of each NFL Draft, Commissioner Roger Goodell takes the podium to announce each team's pick. This prompts a lot of boos when he comes out, but then cheers once the pick is announced along with, often times, hugs, handshakes, and photos with the player who is selected. But day two is different.

Not only are players not typically in the building for day two, but Goodell gives way for teams to have whoever they like come out and announce the pick.

For the Raiders, this year it will be four-time Super Bowl winning linebacker Matt Millen.

Millen was a Round two pick himself for the Raiders back in 1980. He spent the first nine years of his career in Silver & Black, winning two Super Bowls. He spent the final three seasons of his career in San Francisco and Washington where he would get two more rings before retiring following the 1991 season.

The Raiders currently have two picks on Day two of the draft -- Pick 36 near the top of the second round and pick 67 in the third round.

This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: Legendary linebacker to announce Raiders NFL Draft Day 2 picks

We haven't seen Jimmy Butler since the January 19 games against the Milwaukee Bucks. The veteran forward is recovering from a torn ACL and isn't expected to be back on the court until some point in the 2026-27 season. Nonetheless, the Golden State Warriors forward has remained focused on his long-term goals and appears to be locked in on his recovery.

During a recent conversation with GQ Korea, Butler was asked about his goals for the 2026-27 season. The veteran forward wasted no time in sounding out a potential championship run with the Warriors, admitting that contending for the Larry O'Brien trophy is his primary goal once he's back on the court.

“A championship," Butler said. "I want to be remembered as a player who never backed down from any challenge. Someone who showed up, competed, and gave everything. That’s the kind of player I want to be remembered as.”

Butler was putting together a strong season before going down with an injury. In 38 games, the veteran forward was averaging 20 points, 5.6 rebounds and 4.9 assists per game, shooting 51.9% from the field and 37.6% from deep. His rim-pressure, defense and playmaking out of drives have all been missed, especially down the stretch in close games.

Before Butler can return, he must navigate a grueling rehab and recovery program. It won't be easy for him to get back on the court, and even then, the ramp-up phase will be a difficult task. However, if he's driven by the opportunity to win a championship, we could see a highly impactful version of Butler this time next year. If that's the case, the rest of the league may need to watch out.

This post originally appeared on Warriors Wire! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Warriors' Jimmy Butler has one goal in mind

In his final mock draft, ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr. projects a two-round haul for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers that addresses both sides of the ball, starting with Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq at No. 15 overall.

The offensive fit is tied directly to where this unit needs the most offensive help, tight end. With Mike Evans gone and a new system under Zac Robinson, there’s a real chance Tampa Bay leans more into two-tight-end looks. Sadiq brings a different element to that approach, combining size with rare explosiveness after running a 4.39 at 241 pounds. His 560 receiving yards last season only tell part of the story, as much of his production came after the catch, adding another layer to this offense alongside Cade Otton. Now, Sadiq isn't exactly a "blocking" tight end, so he would be utilized more as a weapon for Baker Mayfield.

On Day 2, Kiper has Tampa Bay continuing the transition on defense by selecting Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez in the second round at No. 46 overall. With Lavonte David now out of the picture, the need for a high-volume tackler becomes more urgent, even after adding Alex Anzalone in free agency. The future of the position group is up in the air, and Rodriguez is a player who could hold down the green dot/mike backer position for years to come.

Rodriguez totaled 252 tackles over the past two seasons and is excellent at attacking ball carriers to create turnovers, showing the type of production and consistency that can stabilize a linebacker room looking ahead.

This is what a balanced draft looks like. Tampa Bay adds an explosive offensive weapon while reinforcing the middle of its defense, signaling a team that is evolving without losing its foundation.

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: NFL Mock Draft: Mel Kiper Jr. projects the Bucs to select Kenyon Sadiq

Deion Sanders and Colorado football made a huge recruiting splash earlier this week with four-star Andre Adams committing to the Buffaloes. It was CU's highest-rated commit since Julian Lewis a couple of cycles ago, and now the program has a player to build their 2027 class around.

Adams was quick to join the recruiting fight, taking to social media on Wednesday, hoping to sway four-star offensive lineman Jackson Roper, the top prospect in Colorado, to join him as a Buff. The two potential future teammates met at an airport, and that was a sign to Adams that Roper should stay home.

"I appreciate the love shown from all Colorado supporters!" Adams wrote on X. "We didn't meet in that airport for no reason stay home brodie [Jackson Roper]. Let's do it!"

I appreciate the love shown from all Colorado supporters! We didn't meet in that airport for no reason stay home brodie @JacksonRoper_CO let's do it! @CUBuffsFootball

— 4⭐️ Andre Adams 2027 QB (@Andre_Adams10) April 15, 2026

An Adams and Roper pairing would be enormous for Colorado, which is desperate to make inroads with Colorado recruits. The Buffs have increased their pursuit of Roper in recent weeks, and he is scheduled to be in Boulder next month. However, Sanders and Colorado face stiff competition, with 34 offers, most coming from top-tier Power Four programs.

Having a blue-chip quarterback locked in certainly helps attract elite offensive linemen like Roper and perhaps pushes Colorado closer to the forefront of Roper's recruitment.

Follow Charlie Strella on X, Threads and Instagram.

Contact/Follow us @BuffaloesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Colorado news, notes and opinions.

This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Andre Adams recruiting Jackson Roper to Colorado football

The Los Angeles Rams released the first look at Trent McDuffie's new jersey on Thursday and the reveal has some important news.

McDuffie, who was traded from the Kansas City Chiefs to the Rams this offseason, traditionally wears the number 22. He did so with the Chiefs and during his time at the University of Washington. However, Blake Corum currently occupies the number. Here's the latest changes.

McDuffie keeps his number

During the Rams' release of their new apparel, the team posted McDuffie's new jersey on social media, with his number confirmed as 22.

According to The Athletic’s Nate Atkins, Corum will have the number 24 jersey for next season. McDuffie wears the number 22 in honor of his late brother Tyler, who passed away in 2015. That number was the one Tyler used to wear, and by chance, he was given it at Washington, choosing to keep it for the majority of his career. The only year he didn't have 22 was in 2022, his rookie season, as it was being used by Juan Thornhill at the time.

Hot off the press. 😮‍💨@trent_mcduffie 🤝 #RamsHousepic.twitter.com/dREeIhKvDk

— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) April 16, 2026

Corum wore the number 2 in college but Jaylen McCollough currently occupies the number as that was his number at the University of Tennessee.

McDuffie's jersey is now available for fans as he and Jaylen Watson are set to make their impact as the team's top two signings this offseason.

This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: LA Rams reveal Trent McDuffie’s jersey number for 2026 season

NEW YORK — Former Cleveland Cavaliers player and coach Damon Jones is expected to enter a guilty plea in his sports betting case, according to a court filing Thursday.

Jones was arrested in a blockbuster pair of indictments in Brooklyn Federal Court in October that also netted an NBA player, an NBA coach and 31 other suspects. He’s accused of leaking inside information to bettors before NBA games, and taking part in a Mafia-connected conspiracy to lure high rollers into a rigged poker game.

The other NBA stars indicted include Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups.

On Thursday, a docket entry in the bet-rigging case revealed Jones is ready to take a deal: “Defendant Jones’s change of plea is respectfully REFERRED to Magistrate Judge Joseph A. Marutollo,” the docket entry reads. It’s unclear if Jones is making a similar change of plea in the poker case.

Jones’ lawyer, Kenneth Montgomery, and a spokesman for U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella both declined comment Thursday.

Jones and Rozier have been linked to bet rigging in seven pro games in 2023 and 2024.

Jones, an unofficial assistant coach for the Lakers in 2022 and 2023, used his position to leak info about a Feb. 9, 2023, game against the Milwaukee Bucks, texting a conspirator, “Get a big bet on Milwaukee tonight before the information is out! [Player 3] is out tonight. Bet enough so Djones can eat to [sic] now!!!”, according to the feds.

He and Billups are also accused of acting as the “face cards” to lure starstruck big-money gamblers into high-stakes poker games in Manhattan, Las Vegas, the Hamptons and Miami.

The underground game’s organizers used a variety of high-tech methods to cheat, including an altered automatic card shuffler, an X-ray table and a poker chip tray with hidden cameras, according to the feds.

Jones sent off text messages about his role in the criminal conspiracy, asking one accomplice to front him $10,000 before one East Hampton game and telling him: “God really blessed me that u have action for me because I needed it today bad.”

When another accomplice gave him advice on how to play the rigged game correctly, Jones boasted, “Lol man y’all call Djones in cause y’all know I know what I’m doing!! Let me hibachi like Gilbert Arenas.”

Arenas, another ex-NBA player, was arrested and charged in July with running an illegal, high-stakes poker game out of his Los Angeles home.

Jones told a judge back in December he was in plea negotiations. He’s expected to plead guilty at his next scheduled court date on April 28.

Anytime a program signs a five-star recruit, the expectations can be astronomical. The Oregon Ducks held Dakorien Moore in high regard last season, coming to Eugene as the top wideout in the 2026 recruiting class from Texas. Still, there were highs and lows in his freshman season.

After a strong start, scoring two touchdowns and flying high against Oklahoma State, Moore suffered an injury in practice that sidelined him for November, and his impact during the College Football Playoff was less than what Ducks fans had come to expect.

It's been an offseason of reflection for Moore, who returns as one of the Ducks' top receivers for next season, catching passes from Dante Moore under center. Moore's talent as a receiver has never been in question. From his top-end speed to the highlight reel catches, he's everything Oregon has wanted when they signed him.

For Moore, however, the reflection period of the offseason showed how he could be better off the field.

“I’d say I've improved a lot, mainly in my maturity," Moore said in a press conference on Thursday. "Coming in last year, it was a lot of me thinking I'm kind of being picked on a lot. Coming from Texas, I've been in a lot of situations, but it was a lot of situations I've never been put in that I was put in when I got here. So I’m kind of more prepared for them. And being around JMac, EStew, you know, like some of the older guys who was here last year. Just having a good connection, like pushing me through.”

Moore finished his freshman season with 34 catches for 497 yards and scored four total touchdowns, one of which came on the ground. If he was frustrated, it rarely showed on the field, but Moore believes he has only become more confident and grounded in himself this offseason. With a plethora of weapons for the Ducks to use, Moore is seen as a leader, despite still being one of the youngest in the room.

The Ducks are used to having five-star quality talent on their roster. Evan Stewart was a former five-star going to Texas A&M, and again, when he entered the portal and came to Oregon. Dante Moore was a former five-star as well. The list goes on, but the commonality between them is that none of them were handed a role right away as they came to Oregon.

Dante Moore sat behind Dillon Gabriel and learned. Stewart had to prove his worth after missing time with injuries, and is doing so again this spring. Dakorien Moore quickly learned that how the Ducks approach the recruiting trail and how they approach the product on the field are two very different things.

“You come in, you hear a lot of guys say that five-star stuff doesn't matter," Moore said. "You know, you ain't nothing that you did in high school, you’ve got to reestablish yourself. So that was kind of proven to me a lot. This is Oregon; we have talent everywhere. Big guys are working hard everywhere. So it was kind of like feeding that into me.”

Moore is healthy moving into the spring and focused on what's next. He's healthy enough, in fact, that he will be participating in the long jump event with the Oregon Track and Field team on Friday.

Now, as a leader who is expected to take another big step forward this season, Moore is using his lessons in maturity and leadership to help the next Ducks in line stay ready for their moment.

“On the field, mostly just knowing that we got young guys (and) being that self-talk to them," Moore said. "Being that voice in their ear to tell them the plays, the routes, making sure that they know what they're doing and that they have the confidence to do it. Because I was in the same shoes last year. So just making sure that they go out there and are able to use their abilities that they were recruited to be here.”

Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.

This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: Dakorien Moore focusing on maturity, leadership as sophomore at Oregon

Compared to last year's NFL Draft, the 2026 version will be relatively quiet from a Longhorns fan perspective. But there will still be several Texas football players hearing their names called in Pittsburgh at the 2026 NFL Draft. Who will get picked and where will they land? USA TODAY Sports has the answers in a seven round Mock Draft.

Last year, a record 12 Texas Longhorns were selected in the 2025 NFL Draft. There were 14 Longhorns invited to last season's NFL Combine. This year, that number is cut in half. Seven Texas football players were invited to take part in this year's event in Indianapolis.

Linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. and cornerback Malik Muhammad had the best combines. Both helped their stock. All seven were solid. Still, the USA TODAY Sports mock draft says only five of the seven will get drafted. Offensive lineman DJ Campbell and defensive back Jaylon Guilbeau will miss out on being draft picks, but both will assuredly sign an undrafted free agent contract after the draft is over.

Here are the projections for the five former Longhorns expected to get drafted according to Ayrton Ostly of USA TODAY Sports:

57. Chicago Bears: LB Anthony Hill Jr., Texas

Chicago signed Devin Bush in free agency but he can’t be the long-term answer for the defense at linebacker opposite T.J. Edwards. Hill brings good size (6-foot-2, 238 pounds) and excels best against the run, something the Bears will have to contend with in-division facing the Lions and Packers. He has the athleticism and length to develop in coverage but may have to remain in zone schemes to begin his career. At 21 years old, there’s plenty of runway for improvement.

88. Atlanta Falcons (via Jaguars): CB Malik Muhammad, Texas

Atlanta spent in free agency to bolster the front seven and could use more help at outside cornerback. Muhammad relies on technique and anticipation to stay in position and excel in zone coverage. Atlanta gets a solid prospect after moving down nine spots.

103. New York Jets: TE Jack Endries, Texas

111. Denver Broncos (via Dolphins): S Michael Taaffe, Texas 

174. Carolina Panthers (via Ravens): Edge Trey Moore, Texas

This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Seven Round Mock Draft projects where each former Longhorn get picked

The year was 2009, and Gina Carano's mainstream appeal was rapidly rising thanks to her successful mixed martial arts career and girl-next-door looks. She'd been out of action for several months to film a reboot of the competition series "American Gladiators," appear as a character in the videogame "Red Alert," and pose for a pictorial spread in Maxim.

Then, with a potential highly anticipated showdown against Cris Cyborg looming, Carano attended Strikeforce: Shamrock vs. Diaz on April 11, 2009 to watch Cyborg's fight with Hitomi Akano. Naturally, Carano's presence drew constant attention from a cameraman working cageside at HP Pavillion in San Jose, Calif.

Of all the close-up shots of Carano that night, there's one that stands out among the male-dominated MMA audience – and that years later would become a viral meme: the Gina Carano lip bite.

Gina Carano's explanation of the viral lip bite

Why did she stare into the camera and bite her lip like that with a big smile on her face? Seventeen years later, Carano explained during an appearance on "The Ariel Helwani Show" – and her answer might surprise you.

"I don't smoke weed, but I had smoked weed (that night), and I was just living in my head," Carano said, with a laugh. "The cameraman just kept on putting (the camera on me) – and I thought it was in my head because I was a little bit stoned. … I was just in my head. I was like, 'Is this guy putting the camera on me a lot, or am I just being super paranoid?' It turns out he was putting the camera on me a lot. So what was going through my head: Just like, 'Act normal, act normal.' And that happened. It was a total stoner moment."

And there you have it: the story behind the viral Gina Carano lip bite.

Carano, 44, is returning to the cage for the first time since her August 2009 loss to Cyborg, when she takes on UFC Hall of Famer Ronda Rousey in a highly anticipated showdown of women's MMA pioneers. The fight will headline Netflix's first live-streamed MMA event, which takes place May 16 at Intuit Dome in Inglewood, Calif.

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: The story behind Gina Carano's viral lip bite meme as told by her

As is the annual NFL tradition, Day 2 selections at the NFL draft in 2026 will have their names announced by a former player of the team that has taken them.

The league announced who will represent all 32 teams at this year's event.

For the New York Jets, it will be running back Curtis Martin announcing the team's picks:

The NFL players who will announce the selections at the 2026 NFL Draft: pic.twitter.com/ETxHro3RNy

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 16, 2026

The NFL combines each team with the location of the draft each year if they can. Martin is the Jets' announcer after his storied career in New York from 1998 to 2005.

Prior to entering the NFL, the former first-team All-Pro rusher with the Jets and Pro Football Hall of Famer played his college football at the University of Pittsburgh, the exact location of this year's event.

Jets Wire will continue to provide updates throughout the 2026 offseason.

This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Which former player will announce Jets picks at 2026 NFL Draft?

Kansas City Chiefs general manager Brett Veach held a pre-draft press conference via Zoom on Thursday. He addressed several questions heading into next week, including the potential of multiple trades.

"Our goal is to make that selection and add a player here that is going to be an impact player on our team - I know it's cliché-ish - but really add the best player available." said Veach, "You hear that all the time. I don't want to overthink that, and I don't want to take a lesser player. Someone who is going to come in here, be an impact player (and) help us from day one, I think that's extremely important to us."

Veach spoke strongly about top players who may still be available later in the draft. He does believe there will be plenty for fans to look forward to next week.

"I think that the fans will be in for a treat next Thursday because I think some of the grades are going to be close for some of these tackles, D-ends, and other receivers. That a lot of these guys that are mocked high may go a little low, and a lot of these guys that are getting mocked lower may go a little higher because they're so close this year. It's not this huge gap and big fall off." said Veach, "Even with the offensive linemen, there's traits that you like and there's some things all these guys need to clean up and work on, but I think that the grades are so close that it'll come down to the scheme fit, the coach's analysis, the vision (and) the fit for these guys."

Veach enters next week with two first-round picks at No. 9 and No. 29 overall, and nine selections overall. Two in the first round, one in the second, one in the third, one in the fourth, three in the fifth, and one in the sixth round.

"I think it should be an entertaining night and there will probably be a lot of trades" said Veach, "and that's what I think with a draft like this when you don't have two or three franchise quarterbacks and a (Texans DE) Will Anderson or a (Browns DE) Myles Garrett, it does lend itself to open up to a lot of fun and a lot of excitement. From a fan's perspective, they should have a lot of fun next Thursday."

The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in Pittsburgh this year, with many potential trades still possible on April 23rd.

This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Chiefs GM Brett Veach hints at more first-round trades in the draft

LIV Golf finally enjoyed a moment of newsworthiness on Wednesday, albeit a near-death experience that must have distressed the bot farmers, bootlickers, broadcasters and bookies who’ve cheered the four years of Saudi profligacy now drawing to a close.

For the crypto bros drawn to LIV, it was their first experience of a run on the bank. On Tuesday evening, rumors were rampant that the struggling league would be shuttered. By the next morning, it was known that LIV’s players hadn’t been paid their guarantees for the first quarter — a multi-million dollar sum for many — and were threatening to down tools before Thursday’s first round in Mexico City. (Even Bernie Sanders would balk at supporting that stoppage since wealthy golfers aren’t exactly a downtrodden demographic).

The Financial Times, Wall Street Journal and New York Times all cited sources saying the league’s owner, Saudi Arabia’s sovereign Public Investment Fund, was on the verge of pulling the plug. LIV Golf’s CEO, Scott O’Neil, didn’t immediately and forcefully deny the reports. Nor did he reassure employees, stakeholders and vendors about the future. He didn’t because he couldn’t, and he couldn’t because he didn’t know. And that’s the most damaging conclusion to be drawn from the entire fiasco: LIV’s boss is not familiar with the thinking of its backers at the PIF, and his business is not aligned with PIF’s future plans.

That became official the same day when Yasir Al-Rumayyan — the PIF governor and LIV’s sole supporter — laid out a new five-year plan to strengthen the Fund’s investments in six core areas. Leisure and Sports, part of the previous strategic agenda, was not mentioned. Al-Rumayyan did note that international investments, the bucket in which LIV sits, would be reduced from 30% of its portfolio to 20%, making it unlikely that funding a busload of washed-up professional golfers is going to be a priority.

Not until late Wednesday did O’Neil address the crisis engulfing his business, claiming financing had been secured. It was reported that he told players the league is funded “for the foreseeable future.” That’s unlikely to provide much comfort since O’Neil’s foresight didn’t seem to extend from Wednesday morning to Wednesday evening.

“We have faced headwinds since the jump, and we've answered every time with resilience and grace,” he wrote in a memorandum to staff, with commendable bravado. “Now, we answer by doing what we do best: putting on the most compelling show in sports.”

Leaving aside the Kool-Aid conclusion, O’Neil’s challenges are enormous. Depending on who you ask, LIV’s losses range from $5 billion to north of $8 billion, if you include future commitments. That explains why his most daunting headwinds are now internal, from those financing the farce.

“Our season continues exactly as planned, uninterrupted and at full throttle,” O’Neil emphasized. Which is short of saying LIV is funded through the end of the schedule four months from now, and farther yet from previous claims that the league was solid through 2032. The emergency infusion obtained Wednesday seems less an investment than severance by another name, but it was sufficient to get players to work on Thursday. Meanwhile, LIV’s announcers opened the broadcast by blaming everything on media mischief — the kind of guff usually delivered while wearing a pink hanbok like Ri Chun-hee, the North Korean newsreader who has spawned many a mocking meme.

So what becomes of LIV? O’Neil can seek new financiers, but who would deem it a good investment to pay millions of dollars to guys like Talor Gooch or Caleb Surratt, or to sustain a burn rate reported at $100 million a month? And if the Saudis are no longer interested in spending in sport, and on his LIV enterprise in particular, what leverage does he have to secure a soft landing deal with the PGA Tour or its European counterpart? He has nothing to offer but a toxic product.

Through four years of LIV’s existence, some things have been constant: bullishness that is often exposed as bullshit; metrics that never signal an upward trajectory; a victim mentality that blames its failures on a conspiracy against the league rather than on its own well-documented missteps; and a drool-speckled army on social media insisting that the Saudis have enough cash to cover LIV forever.

Thing is, though, no one likes setting money on fire, no matter how much of it they have. Which is why “forever” seems to have arrived.

Eamon Lynch is a columnist for Golfweek and a frequent contributor to Golf Channel.

This article originally appeared on Golfweek: LIV Golf proves even the Saudis have a spending limit: Eamon Lynch

Florida State's first time hosting 2027 blue-chip edge Desmond Malpress back in January went well enough for the Seminoles to get another visit with him. That took place on Wednesday when Malpress witnessed their final spring practice.

Despite not coming to see FSU that many times, Malpress has been won over by what the program has to offer. In fact, the feeling in Tallahassee has set itself apart from other schools.

"I just wanted to see, come back and experience the feeling of being at home," Malpress told Noles247. "This feels like home to me and just wanted to be back. It's definitely a great time being here."

The ties that bind Malpress to Florida State come directly through edge coach Nick Williams. This relationship goes back to when Williams was coaching at Syracuse, and he extended a scholarship offer to Malpress in March of 2025.

"Nick still doing the same things he did at Syracuse, same position, teaching the same things, and I can see it is working right now. The bend they've got," Malpress said. "I feel like they're going to be monsters this year."

Malpress watched Fadil Diggs get drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the seventh round in 2025 after being coached by Williams. Players like Travon Walker, Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, and Devonte Wyatt develop during their days at Georgia while being guided by Williams, giving him an incredible resume in a short amount of time.

He only got to play in six games as a junior. However, Malpress produced 15 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, one pass breakup, and two forced fumbles.

The 6-foot-3, 205-pounder is the No. 123 overall player and the No. 14 edge in the 247Sports composite rankings. In the state of Florida, Malpress is the No. 14 prospect.

Contact/Follow us @FSUWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida State news, notes and opinions. You can also follow Matthew on X @StarConscience

This article originally appeared on FSU Wire: FSU Football: Desmond Malpress raves about Florida State after visit

Sun Sentinel Miami Dolphins columnist Chris Perkins and reporter David Furones discuss who the best player available might be for the team’s No. 11 draft pick.

The Florida Gators are at home this weekend for a three-game series against the Auburn Tigers, starting on Thursday.

Kevin O'Sullivan has to be pleased with Aidan King and Liam Peterson after both went seven innings without allowing more than two runs last week. Russell Sandefer wasn't as good, but Florida's bats came to life in the series finale against Georgia. A midweek loss to Bethune-Cookman humbled the Gators a bit, but Florida has played to its level of competition this year, often to a fault.

As the second half of SEC play begins, Florida needs to find some consistency. It starts this weekend against the Tigers. The Gators are mostly healthy, missing outfielder Cash Strayer and reliever Jackson Barberi. Infielder Colton Schwarz is questionable once again.

Projected Starting Lineup: Florida Gators

Probable Starters: Game 1 - Thursday (7 p.m. ET)

NOTES: Aidan King was lights out in his first Friday night start, carrying a perfect game into the seventh before allowing a leadoff base hit. He walked a pair that ended up scoring on a triple made possible by some defensive confusion. Two runs over 7 2/3 innings isn't bad by any measure, but King was still somehow better than his numbers suggested last week.

Andreas Alvarez broke out last year during the playoffs, and he's established himself as the ace of Auburn's pitching staff this season. His 6-1 record and 1.24 ERA speak for themselves. Avarez has held opposing hitters to a .197 batting average and has struck out 60 while walking just 15 for a 4-to-1 ratio. His fastball will sit in the mid-to-high 90s fastball that has run up to 97.0 this season. He'll mix in two different breaking balls and a low-80s changeup that draws a ton of swing-and-miss.

Probable Starters: Game 2 - Friday (5:30 p.m. ET)

NOTES: Liam Peterson took the rotation shakeup in stride, too. He went a career-best seven innings, allowing one earned run on eight hits and no walks. Working around those baserunners is a big positive for Peterson, and pitching to contact allowed him to get deeper in a game. His strikeouts were down to four, but Georgia is a good-hitting team. It's worth the strikeout dip if Peterson can get the quality start.

Virginia Tech transfer Jake Marciano is the No. 2 on Auburn's staff, and he's settled in nicely after a rough second half of 2025 led to a 6.08 ERA. This is a guy who does not walk batters. He's given up seven this season for a 3.4% walk rate, but he has hit nine batters. Opposing hitters have a .179 average against him, and Marciano's 71 strikeouts match his season total from a year ago.

Marciano is a sinker-slurve guy that doesn't rely on velocity. His sinking fastball will only touch the low 90s, and his cutter is in the low-to-mid-80s. He's got a slower 75-78 mph slider and a 78-79 mph changeup. Still, he misses bats and has full command of his arsenal.

Probable Starters: Game 3 - Saturday (12 p.m. ET)

NOTES: Russell Sandefer really struggled on Sunday, but Florida's offense had his back. The goal for Sandefer is to get back on track this week. He didn't make it through the second and gave up five runs a week after going seven shutout innings. That's two ends of the spectrum in as many weeks, so no judgments should be made either way yet.

Alex Petrovic has been a nice surprise this year for Auburn. He made five starts last year before missing most of the season with an injury. Like the other Tigers starters, Petrovic has a low batting average against (.201) and good strikeout-to-walk numbers (53 K, 9 BB).

Other Players to Watch

The three bats Florida has to worry about the most are catcher Chase Fralick (1,033 OPS), third baseman Eric Guevara (.959 OPS) and center fielder Bristol Carter (.927). Fralick leads the program with six home runs and 26 runs batted in. He walks (20) almost as much as he strikes out (24), and he's nearing the 40-hit mark.

Guevara is second on the team with five home runs and is tied with two other players — second baseman Christopher Rembert and right fielder Mason McCraine — with 23 RBIs. Carter is a speedster with 22 stolen bases on the year, and McCraine has more walks (20) than strikeouts (19).

Out of the bullpen, Jett Johnston (4.19 ERA) and Garrett Brewer (5.56 ERA) each have 10 appearances and figure to be the top righty and lefty options, respectively. Johnston is tied for the team lead in strikeouts among non-starters with freshman LJ Cormier, both of whom have 23 on the season.

Series History

Notes: The series between Florida and Auburn dates back to 1913 in Gainesville. The Gators have won 31 of the last 45 meetings.

Follow the Action

THURSDAY (7 p.m. ET)

• Watch: SEC Network
• Listen: ESPN 98.1FM/850AM WRUF
• Live Stream: Fubo (with free trial)

FRIDAY (5:30 p.m. ET)

• Watch: SEC Network
• Listen: ESPN 98.1FM/850AM WRUF
• Live Stream: Fubo (with free trial)

SATURDAY (12 p.m. ET)

• Watch: ESPN2
• Listen: ESPN 98.1FM/850AM WRUF
• Live Stream: Fubo (with free trial)

* Watch links go directly to game feed

Predictions

GAME 1: Florida, 7-1

GAME 2: Florida, 9-4

GAME 3: Florida, 8-7

PREDICTION: King and Peterson are coming off an elite weekend on the road, so there's no reason to doubt them at home. Sandefer is up in the air, but he should be good enough to get the win, especially if the other starters save the bullpen. Florida's offense should be ready to go after falling to Bethune-Cookman during the week. I expect a good number of runs.

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

This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Florida baseball vs. Auburn Tigers series preview

Texas A&M's annual Maroon & White Game will serve as the Aggies' 15th spring practice, and for third-year head coach Mike Elko, progress has been made on both sides of the ball, but the real work begins during fall camp in early August.

Despite achieving career highs as a passer during his first full starting season, redshirt junior quarterback Marcel Reed will once again be the primary talking point concerning the Aggies' chances of making it back to the College Football Playoff for the second straight season.

Still, there's plenty the Tennessee native can improve on, starting with his footwork in the pocket, ball placement, and decision making, which starts with new quarterbacks coach Joey Lynch, while transfer wide receiver Isaiah Horton and freshman wideout Aaron Gregory bring size, speed, and athleticism to an already established receiver room.

After connecting with now junior wide receiver Mario Craver for 917 yards and four touchdowns last season, Marcel Reed's arm strength and ability to make plays outside the pocket aren't an issue, but consistently doing so, especially late in the season, is another story.

While he threw for a career-high 3,169 yards and 25 touchdowns, Reed's 12 interceptions, including four against Texas and Miami in the first round of the CFP, ended the Aggies' historic season prematurely. Nationally, Reed is considered a Top 25-ranked quarterback in the country, and according to CBS Sports writer Brad Crawford, Texas A&M's starting signal caller enters the 2026 season as the 16th-ranked quarterback among the Power Conferences, and 7th-ranked QB in the SEC.

"A surprise early-season Heisman candidate last fall after a comeback win at Notre Dame, Reed battled the turnover-bug during SEC play despite 11 straight wins prior to the finale at Texas. In the CFP, Reed and the Aggies failed to find a rhythm offensively, mustering three points to put a black mark on an otherwise notable campaign. After throwing for 3,169 yards and rushing for another 493 as a sophomore, Reed has a point to prove next season."

Reed's legs should be emphasized this offseason, possessing Lamar Jackson-like running ability that wasn't as present compared to the 2024 season, and would take the Aggie offense under new OC Holmon Wiggins to the next level, especially if Reed struggles to throw the ball efficiently late in the season.

Regarding the ranked SEC quarterbacks, Texas star Arch Manning (No. 3), Ole Miss's Trinidad Chambliss (No. 4), Georgia's Gunner Stockton (No. 7), LSU transfer QB Sam Leavitt (No. 8), Auburn transfer QB Byrum Brown (No. 12), and South Carolina veteran QB LaNorris Sellers (No. 15) are the only players positioned above Marcel Reed among 68 quarterbacks listed.

.@BCrawford247 ranked every projected Power Conference QB starter entering the 2026 season 👀

Full 1-68 ranking 🔗 https://t.co/MoEQBTcIGhpic.twitter.com/SpZnEjViQk

— CBS Sports College Football 🏈 (@CBSSportsCFB) April 15, 2026

Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.

This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M's Marcel Reed ranked No. 16 in CBS Sports' 2026 QB rankings

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers may not be in the market for a quarterback in this year’s draft, based on recent comments from general manager Jason Licht in the team’s latest quote sheet.

Licht made it clear the team has done its homework on the class, which is standard, but the tone around the position points more toward stability than urgency. Tampa Bay recently added Jake Browning and continues to show confidence in Connor Bazelak, giving the current quarterback room more depth behind Baker Mayfield.

That context says that the Bucs are good at quarterback. This isn’t a team searching for answers at the position right now; it’s a group that feels comfortable with what it has and is more focused on evaluating how those pieces fit under the new coaching staff. Bazelak, in particular, will get an extended look as the offseason progresses.

Licht didn’t completely shut the door on drafting a quarterback, but the conditions are specific. It would have to be the right player at the right spot, not a forced move just to add depth.

At this point, the message is clear. The Buccaneers aren’t prioritizing quarterback in this draft, and unless the board falls in a very specific way, they’re likely to build around the room they already trust. Perhaps Baker Mayfield gets an extension at some point this year, but at this point, there are no signs pointing to a new quarterback being added to Tampa's roster by way of the draft.

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Bucs GM Jason Licht is comfortable with the team's QB room

A belated call for time, a pair of hit-by-pitches and a game-ending strikeout stretched across two days to produce a tepid postgame incident between the San Francisco Giants and Cincinnati Reds.

Giants closer Erik Miller struck out Reds rookie Sal Stewart to finish the team's 3-0 victory Thursday, April 16 at Great American Ball Park. The 6-5 lefty exulted and walked toward his own dugout. Stewart, though, apparently took issue with some unreported verbosity, turned and headed toward Miller.

Giants catcher Patrick Bailey interceded and Miller used the international symbol for "go back to your dugout" as the benches ambled out and bullpens jogged in out of curiosity.

The kerfuffle's roots sprang from a night earlier, when Giants reliever JT Brubaker got perturbed by a late timeout call from Reds slugger Spencer Steer as Brubaker prepared to deliver a pitch in the bottom of the seventh.

Benches clear at conclusion of Giants-Reds game in Cincinnati. pic.twitter.com/zB5dBKgGlr

— MLB (@MLB) April 16, 2026

Brubaker responded, in a sense, by waiting until the final second on the pitch clock to deliver his next pitch. That prompted Steer, captured by video cameras, to shout, "Throw the (expletive) ball." The Reds went on to win 8-3.

A day later, Giants starter Landen Roupp, who took a no-hitter into the sixth, drilled Steer in the ribs in Steer's first at-bat of the game in the second inning. It was the only four-seam fastball Roupp threw all day. He later told reporters the pitch slipped.

In the eighth, Reds reliever Connor Phillips responded by drilling the Giants' Willy Adames in the leg with a pitch. Adames looked out at the pitcher; benches stirred, but weren't shaken. Phillips was ejected, to the mild objections of Reds manager Terry Francona.

And then, the game-ending drama, which resulted in Miller confined to the visiting dugout for postgame handshakes. Sadly, the relievers had to retreat to their bullpens, as they did not secure their belongings before jogging in for the postgame extracurriculars.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Giants-Reds MLB brawl: Watch benches clear in Cincinnati

The Los Angeles Lakers aren’t ruling out Luka Doncic (hamstring strain) or Austin Reaves (oblique strain) for their first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets.

However, a potential return reportedly isn’t the expectation.

Via ESPN’s Dave McMenamin:

As they prepare for it, sources told ESPN they have no expectation of having either Doncic or Reaves back at any point in the first round. But they also have not completely ruled out the possibility of one or both of them becoming available the longer the series lasts.

Both Doncic and Reaves, who led the Lakers (53-29, No. 4 in the eight-team Western Conference playoffs bracket) in scoring, suffered Grade 2 strains in an April 2 loss at Oklahoma City. Those typically have a recovery timeline of four-to-six weeks before returning to play in an NBA game.

Game 6 and Game 7 of the best-of-seven series versus the Rockets are on May 1 and May 3, respectively. So, if Doncic and/or Reaves were able to recover on the short end of that timeline — or, if perhaps the timeline was slightly expedited due to the added playoff stakes — it’s at least plausible that one or both could return in the first round.

New story: For 33 days, the Lakers were one of the hottest teams in basketball. Then everything changed. How the Lakers soared, stumbled and are now attempting to pick themselves back up for the playoffs https://t.co/5E23LCxgbZ

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) April 16, 2026

But from a Los Angeles perspective, that scenario appears far from a foregone conclusion. And for the Rockets (52-30, No. 5 in West), it could make winning games early in the series even more important, so that the series doesn’t drag out long enough to allow for such a return.

“You have to mentally understand that it’s still the NBA,” said Rockets head coach Ime Udoka, who pointed to Luke Kennard and Rui Hachimura as players capable of stepping up for the Lakers. Los Angeles still has a perennial All-Star in LeBron James to lead the way, as well.

“Other guys are going to step up and be more aggressive in their opportunities,” Udoka told reporters after Thursday’s practice in Houston. “For us, obviously it’s the playoffs, so it’s not time to think about anything other than coming out and being consistent, doing what we do, and not looking at who’s missing for them. They’re still a very capable team with really good players.”

Game 1 is Saturday night in Los Angeles. The game tips off at 7:30 p.m. Central and will be televised and streamed to a national audience via ABC.

“There’s no time for complacency,” Rockets guard Amen Thompson said. “It’s the playoffs, we’re trying to win a championship.”

Los Angeles went 2-1 against the Rockets in the regular season, but Doncic averaged 38.0 points (50.0% FG, 37.9% on 3-pointers), 7.5 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game in the two wins.

More: NBA releases complete first-round schedule for Rockets-Lakers playoffs

Amen Thompson on how the #Rockets can avoid complacency versus the short-handed Lakers:

“It’s the playoffs, we’re trying to win a championship. There’s no time for complacency.” pic.twitter.com/6KFdesiF7U

— The Rockets Wire (@TheRocketsWire) April 16, 2026

This article originally appeared on Rockets Wire: Report: Lakers not expecting injured stars to return versus Rockets

NEW YORK — Gerrit Cole is ready for real games.

The Yankees’ right-hander will begin a rehab assignment with the Double-A Somerset Patriots on Friday. It will be his most significant step yet in his recovery from Tommy John surgery.

On Thursday, Yankees manager Aaron Boone said the plan is for Cole’s pitch count to be in the mid-40s. The manager added that Cole will build up to a “higher threshold” during his rehab assignment. Once he’s back in the majors, the Yankees will “probably be conservative with him,” Boone said.

Cole is 13 months removed from a procedure that knocked him out for the entire 2025 season. His rehab process, which has included a lengthy buildup, a de-load period and another buildup, has gone according to plan thus far.

The 35-year-old most recently threw 42 pitches over three innings during a simulated game in Hudson Valley on Sunday, as well as a bullpen session at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday.

Cole will need several rehab starts, though his status on the 15-day injured list — opposed to the 60-day — means he could return before the end of May. He and the Yankees have always considered a late-May or early-June return to be the best-case scenario.

The start of Cole’s rehab assignment coincides with Luis Gil looking like a rather weak link in the Yankees’ rotation. The righty struggled again on Wednesday night, allowing four earned runs and three homers over five innings before the Yankees were able to walk off the Angels.

If all others stay healthy in the Yankees’ rotation, Gil will be an easy choice for the odd man out once Cole or Carlos Rodón come off the IL.

Rodón, recovering from an offseason elbow cleanup procedure and set back by some hamstring tightness, is scheduled to throw live batting practice at Somerset on Saturday. Boone said if that goes well, the lefty will likely graduate to a rehab assignment.

The skipper said Rodón will make “at least” three rehab starts.

Jorge Masvidal wants to fight Leon Edwards, but he also wants the UFC to pay up for the grudge match.

Masvidal, the original BMF champion, has been angling to make a return to the octagon for quite some time, and he'd like it to be against Edwards, who he once struck backstage at a UFC event in 2016 in one of MMA's most viral moments. "Gamebred" revealed on "Deep Waters" that there have been ongoing talks with the UFC, but the money hasn't been right.

"It's low-hanging fruit for the UFC," Masvidal said. "Just give me what I'm asking for, and we're good to go, man."

Masvidal says talks have been going on for a while, but it's been difficult dealing with the UFC.

"We've been talking for a minute, it's just that we haven't landed on that thing," Masvidal explained. "You guys know better how the UFC works. I love them to death, but man, they make you work for every single thing. It's always not quite what you wanted it to be a lot of the time, but we'll get something done."

Dustin Poirier, retired UFC fighter, was also sitting on the "Deep Waters" show and suggested the Masvidal-Edwards fight go down at this year's UFC International Fight Week in July, which Masvidal appeared to like.

"If they give me the Leon fight, I would get down to 170 by tomorrow," Masvidal said. "I would like that fight. He doesn't have anything scheduled."

There's nothing official yet, but Edwards was recently linked to a fight at UFC 329 on July 11 in Las Vegas. Veteran welterweight Daniel Rodriguez claimed that he was given a contract to fight Edwards and that he's accepted and is waiting on the Englishman.

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Jorge Masvidal urges UFC to pay up for Leon Edwards grudge match

Manny Diaz led Duke football to its first outright ACC title since 1962 this past season, defeating Virginia in the conference title game in overtime.

Now, he’s getting rewarded.

Duke athletic director Nina King announced on Thursday that the university and Diaz have agreed to a contract extension through 2032.

"Manny Diaz is exactly the right leader at exactly the right time for Duke University," King said. "His clear vision for Duke football, deep understanding of our student-athletes and strong alignment with campus and athletics leadership have positioned us for sustained success in the years ahead. We are incredibly proud to have him leading the Blue Devils, and with his passion, integrity and expertise, Duke football will continue to pursue excellence on and off the field well into the future."

In his two seasons in Durham, the 52-year-old Diaz has helped rebuild the program into an ACC contender, winning nine games in both seasons, including this past season in which the Blue Devils went 6-2 in conference play, working their way into the title game and winning a bowl game for the third time in four years. 

The Blue Devils also claimed their second straight “state title,” with wins over NC State, Wake Forest and UNC. 

This article originally appeared on Duke Wire: Duke, Manny Diaz agree on contract extension

As of Thursday night, the Houston Texans own the 28th overall pick, but given general manager Nick Caserio, conversations about moving back into Round 2 have already begun.

For the third straight year, the Texans will pick in the back half of the 20s. Now the only question is, will they stay there for the first time since the winning started with C.J. Stroud? Houston traded away the pick initially in 2024 to land Will Anderson Jr. at pick No. 3 in 2023. Then last season, the Texans shifted out of Day 1 to allow the New York Giants to move up and select on Day 2.

Throughout the past two decades, teams haven't had the most amount of success with pick No. 28. Most players have either underperformed or been transformed into nothing more than depth pieces on different teams.

Here's every player drafted 28th overall since 2006

2020-2025

• 2020 - Baltimore Ravens: LB Patrick Queen
• 2021 - New Orelans Saints: DE Payton Turner
• 2022 - Green Bay Packers: DE Devonte Wyatt
• 2023 - Cincinnati Bengals: DE Myles Murphy
• 2024 - Kansas City Chiefs: WR Xaiver Worthy
• 2025 - Detroit Lions: DL Tyleik Williams

Outside of Queen, no one has become a staple of their franchise. Turner is a backup on the Lions, while Worthy, Wyatt and Murphy have been role players for their respective franchises. Williams had a promising rookie season, but he's only one year into the deal and still isn't a full-time starter.

Queen might have taken a step back last season, but he's a two-time Pro Bowler and an All-Pro. He might not become the next Ray Lewis, but the pick was warranted in 2020 by the Ravens for a consensus top 20 linebacker who had two elite seasons.

2010-2019

• 2010: Miami Dolphins: DL Jared Odrick 
• 2011: New Orleans Saints: RB Mark Ingram
• 2012: Green Bay Packers: LB Nick Perry
• 2013: Denver Broncos: DL Sylvester Williams
• 2014: Carolina Panthers: WR Kelvin Benjamin
• 2015: Detroit Lions: OG Laken Tomlinson
• 2016: San Francisco 49ers: OG Josh Garnett
• 2017: Dallas Cowboys: DE Taco Charlton
• 2018: Pittsburgh Steelers: DB Terrell Edmunds
• 2019: Los Angeles Chargers: DT Jerry Tillery

Two players ended up suiting up for Houston before their careers ended. In 2021, Ingram, who earned Pro Bowl honors with the Saints, played for the Texans before eventually being traded back to New Orleans to close out his career. Tomlinson, who bounced around from San Francisco to New York and Baltimore, started seven games for the Texans before being waived in early November.

Outside of those two, Edmunds had a decent career with the Steelers as a strong safety, but for the most part is better served as a backup.

2006-2009

• 2006: Jacksonville Jaguars: TE Mercedes Lewis
• 2007: San Francisco 49ers: OT Joe Staley
• 2008: Seattle Sehawks - DE Lawrence Jackson
• 2009: Buffalo Bills - OL Eric Wood

They really don't make them like they used to, do they? Wood and Staley ended up playing for over a decade, helping their franchises return to some form of stability in rebuilds. Staley ended up becoming a six-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro on the 49ers' offensive line for 13 years. Wood, a former All-American at Louisville, earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2015 before calling it quits in 2017. Meanwhile, Lewis, a standout for UCLA, just finished his 20th season with the Denver Broncos, proving that age is simply nothing more than a number.

This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans NFL Draft: Every player selected 28th overall since 2006

The Oklahoma City Thunder held practice on Thursday. They continue to await who they will face in Round 1 of the 2026 NBA playoffs. It's down to two possibilities — the Phoenix Suns or the Golden State Warriors.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren and Cason Wallace talked to the local media after practice.

Gilgeous-Alexander talked about OKC's odds of going back-to-back; Holmgren discussed entering the NBA playoffs with health; Wallace talked about recently attending the 2026 WNBA draft to support girlfriend Kiki Rice.

Here's what else happened at OKC's Thursday, Apr. 16 practice:

Another Thunder practice today. Will either face the Suns or Warriors in the playoffs pic.twitter.com/pVlrdtEADN

— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) April 16, 2026

Thomas Sorber working on the court nearest where the media parks at the facility pic.twitter.com/nYlq0W2XU8

— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) April 16, 2026

Jalen Williams rocking a new look at practice today pic.twitter.com/rJPLQF9Zb9

— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) April 16, 2026

Ponytail Dub pic.twitter.com/CKBzyGZ72k

— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) April 16, 2026

SGA on going back-to-back: “It’s a cool opportunity. I think going through last year and realizing that’s so far down the line. So many things have to happen before we get to the Finals-clinching game.” pic.twitter.com/3F4mg8FnuA

— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) April 16, 2026

SGA on this week off during the play-in: “Has a training camp flow. Get into shape. Get into rhythm.” pic.twitter.com/0TulYuq5SW

— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) April 16, 2026

SGA on physically preparing for the playoffs: “You just gotta win and chip away at it. Hopefully you build enough muscles… That’s what the regular season and summer is for me. Making sure my body is right.” pic.twitter.com/TRjzJnJkPC

— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) April 16, 2026

Chet Holmgren on his upcoming playoff run: “I’m extremely excited. Last year was very challenging. I don’t think I felt the best physically. I feel really good right now.” pic.twitter.com/kulWpu3O11

— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) April 16, 2026