Tempers flared over the final 60 seconds, however.
The Bruins had some early chances, but Juuse Saros had the Nashville net sealed.
Pavel Zacha was victimized twice by the Finnish Olympian, first from the slot and later from the left dot.
David Pastrnak set up Marat Khusnutdinov in the slot, but the winger couldn’t get his shot through the quagmire of bodies in front.
Pastrnak caught Steven Stamkos with a high stick, but the Bruins squashed the penalty, allowing just one harmless shot on Joonas Korpisalo.
Not long after their power play expired, however, the Predators took the lead on a shot that Korpisalo would dearly love to have back.
Defenseman Nicolas Hague, trailing the play, took a drop pass from Ozzy Wiesblatt and snapped one through Korpisalo’s pads. The Bruins goalie took the steam out of the shot, but the puck trickled over the line before he could recover.
Nashville had a golden opportunity moments later but Korpisalo — also a Finnish Olympian — snagged a point-blanker from Joakin Kemell, who arrived at the rink just minutes before puck drop from AHL Milwaukee.
Erik Haula caught Pastrnak with a high stick, but the Bruins power play couldn’t connect.
A dustup with 41 seconds left resulted in minors to Boston’s Mark Kastelic (roughing) and Nashville’s Matthew Wood (cross-checking).
Elias Lindholm nearly put the Bruins on the board after Stamkos inadvertently wiped out Saros, but the goalie recovered in time to glove the center’s bid.
Haula tripped Pastrnak in the in the final second, giving the Bruins a power play for the first 1:19 of the second period.
The middle period was disastrous for the Bruins.
But it could have been worse.
Charlie McAvoy took another puck to the face, dropping Boston’s top defenseman to the ice. He required some attention but didn’t miss a shift.
Coach Marco Sturm elected to go with four forwards, and it didn’t work out too well.
Nick Perbix picked off a Pastrnak pass and was off to the races the other way. Wood popped out of the penalty box, joined the rush, and slid a perfect Perbix relay past Korpisalo for a 2-0 lead.
It was the seventh shorthanded goal the Bruins have allowed on the season.
Boston cut the lead in half on its next man advantage when Morgan Geekie one-timed a heat seeker past Saros for his career-high 34th goal and 12th power-play strike of the season.
It was all downhill from there.
The Predators erupted for three straight goals to take a commanding 5-1 lead after 40 minutes.
First it was Haula, who banked one in off his body.
Sean Kuraly ripped one past Saros, but it was immediately called off for interference as Tanner Jeannot clipped the goalie on his way through the slot.
On the ensuing power play, Filip Forsberg ripped one over Korpisalo’s blocker from the right circle.
Wood’s second of the night, on a net-front tip, capped the Predators’ onslaught.
The Bruins challenged the Wood goal for goalie interference but after a lengthy review — and with the crowd signing along to The Beatles’ “Let it Be” — it was deemed a good goal.
Bruins take road to ruin in Nashville, where Predators attack in second period for win
Kopitar gets standing ovation, special shirts for 1,500th NHL game
It was an ovation fit for a King.
Anze Kopitar played his 1,500th NHL game on Thursday when the Los Angeles Kings hosted the New York Islanders and the feat was not lost on fans in attendance.
Kopitar is just the 25th player in NHL history to reach the milestone. He is the first player to play 1,500 games for the Kings.
He’s the franchise leader in assists (856), third in goals (446) and second with 1,302 points, but closing in on the team record of 1,307 held by Hockey Hall of Fame forward Marcel Dionne.
On Thursday’s broadcast, ESPN gave him his own walk of fame to highlight his career accomplishments, which include two Stanley Cup titles.
Blue Jackets trade for coveted forward ahead of NHL deadline
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Shortly after midnight on NHL trade deadline day, the Columbus Blue Jackets have landed one of the more coveted players on the market.
The Blue Jackets are acquiring forward Conor Garland from the Vancouver Canucks. Columbus is sending a second-round pick in 2028 and a third-round pick in 2026 to Vancouver in return.
The 29-year-old Garland will start a six-year contract extension worth $6 million AAV that he signed with the Canucks on July 1, 2025. The deal includes no-movement clauses for the first three seasons and modified no-trade clauses for the final three seasons.
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Garland has been a productive scorer throughout his career with five seasons of at least 17 goals. But he has struggled this season, scoring just seven goals and 26 points in 50 games. His 6.8% shooting percentage is the worst in his career.
He also provides value on special teams with nine power play points and averaged 1:51 of ice time on the penalty kill, both of which the Blue Jackets could use help in.
The Blue Jackets are coming off a 4-2 win vs. the Florida Panthers on Thursday night. They are now one point behind the Boston Bruins for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
LeBron James breaks Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s NBA record for career field goals
DENVER — One Laker has passed another for an NBA career record – again.
LeBron James has surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most field goals in NBA history. James hit a turnaround 12-foot jumper over Zeke Nnaji in front of the Lakers’ bench with 12 seconds left in the first quarter of the Lakers’ game against the Denver Nuggets on Thursday night.
The basket gave James 15,838 career field goals in his unprecedented 23rd NBA season. Abdul-Jabbar had 15,837 baskets when the skyhook-wielding big man ended his 20-year career in 1989 as the NBA’s career scoring leader. Karl Malone is a distant third with 13,528 field goals.
James passed Abdul-Jabbar to become the top scorer in NBA history in February 2023. James was already the top scorer in NBA playoff history, and he surpassed 50,000 career points in the regular season and postseason combined a year ago.
James has already attempted more field goals than any NBA player – 31,274 entering Thursday night, including more than 7,500 3-pointers.
Abdul-Jabbar, the low-post virtuoso who made more than 50% of his shots in 19 straight seasons to start his career, attempted only 28,307 field goals – and just 18 of them were 3-pointers after the shot was introduced to the league midway through his career.
Abdul-Jabbar was a career 55.9% shooter, while James has hit 51.6% of his shots.
James tied Abdul-Jabbar’s record with his second basket of the game, a dunk off a lob pass from Luka Doncic that cut Denver’s early lead to 16-7 with 8:33 left in the first quarter.
When James went to the bench at the end of the first quarter after passing Abdul-Jabbar, the Denver Nuggets’ public address announcer told the crowd about his accomplishment. James was given a standing ovation from the fans at Ball Arena.
Now 41, James regularly sets NBA records for longevity and career achievements – most recently becoming the oldest player to get a triple-double last month.
Before tipoff, Lakers coach J.J. Redick compared his superstar to another iconic American virtuoso: the Boss.
“Yeah, I’m a big Bruce Springsteen fan, and I would probably say his early albums really, really get me going,” Redick said. “There’s a youthfulness to him, you know, in energy. ‘Nebraska’ is actually my favorite album of all time. And that’s very different from what he had done that far in his career. And then you can kind of see the evolution of him as a singer-songwriter. and then he comes out with the greatest hits. And you’re like, ‘Wow, this is pretty good.’
“And then after that he comes out with ‘The Rising,’ which is one of the most important albums of the 2000s. So, you get to the end and you’re like, ‘Holy man, this guy’s greatest hits are like insane.’ And LeBron’s greatest hits, right? He just keeps adding to them. He just plays and plays and plays and the greatest hits, he’s got a hell of a catalog.”
Even more history awaits James later in March, barring injury: The Lakers’ visit to the Nuggets was the 1,606th regular-season game of his career, putting him just five games behind Robert Parish (1,611) for the most in NBA history. James already holds the league’s career record for playoff games with 292.
James says he hasn’t decided whether to return to the Lakers next season, but he believes he could keep playing at a high level indefinitely. He was selected for the All-Star Game for the 22nd time in his career despite missing 18 games due to injury, precluding him from consideration for the postseason All-NBA teams.
More to come on this story.
LeBron James passes Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for most made FG in NBA history
DENVER — LeBron James already had scored the most points in NBA history.
Now the Los Angeles Lakers star has made the most baskets, too.
James hit a baseline turnaround jump shot over Denver Nuggets forward Zeke Nnaji with 12.3 seconds remaining in the first quarter Thursday for his third made field goal of the game and 15,838th of his career, passing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most made field goals in NBA history.
James already replaced Abdul-Jabbar as the league’s all-time leading scorer on Feb. 7, 2023 with a step-back jump shot from the foul line extended, giving him 38,388 career points.
He’s since pushed that point total north of 43,000, putting some distance between him and Abdul-Jabbar at No. 2.
Damian Lillard asks about Miami RedHawks’ NCAA tournament bid chances
Even if the tweet isn’t worded exactly how Miami RedHawks’ fans might want it, the fact that NBA star Damian Lillard is tweeting about the 19th-ranked, undefeated team from Oxford, Ohio, is something.
Is Doc Rivers Retiring From Coaching? Rumors Around the Bucks Coach Explained
Doc Rivers and the Milwaukee Bucks are in the midst of a chaotic, underwhelming season. Despite the return of Greek superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo in recent weeks, the Bucks are the 11th seed in the Eastern Conference table with a 26-35 record. Much of their struggles are down to the lack of cohesion within the locker room. In light of these issues, the rumor mill is hinting yet again that head coach Rivers’ eventful time in Milwaukee is drawing to a swift end. Coincidentally, it was his former media colleague who leaked the news to the world this time.
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Is Doc Rivers retiring after the 2025-26 NBA season?
NBA insider and popular sports analyst, Stephen A. Smith, was speaking about the Bucks’ struggles on his SiriusXM radio show on Wednesday afternoon. A fan phoned in to Mad Dog Sports Radio, asking about a potential Ja Morant trade to Wisconsin to play under the tutelage of Rivers. Smith was quick to shoot that down, not because the veteran didn’t like the Memphis Grizzlies star, but for a different personal reason entirely.
“It’s not gonna be Doc Rivers because Doc Rivers is gonna retire at the end of this season,” Smith responded. “Doc Rivers has been coaching for close to 25 years. This is it for him. He’s gonna step away.”
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This comes after the Antetokounmpo-led team fell to their fourth consecutive loss last night. The Bucks slumped to a 131-113 home loss to the Atlanta Hawks. The 2021 NBA champions are unlikely to make the postseason, which means Rivers’ coaching tenure could be in its last month.
What is Doc Rivers’ current role with the Milwaukee Bucks?
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Doc Rivers arrived in Milwaukee midway through the 2023-24 season to replace Adrian Griffin with the team at 32-14.
Despite having the second-best record in the league, Griffin had lost his star players’ trust during training camp. The front office intended to capitalize on their window with Damian Lillard and Antetokounmpo and handed Rivers a three-and-a-half-year contract worth $40 million, according to Spotrac. From his arrival in January 2024 through the end of the subsequent 2024‑25 season, Rivers led the Bucks with grit and determination.
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In December 2024, Rivers led the team to the NBA Cup Finals, where they beat the Oklahoma City Thunder 97-81. After a slow start to the season, the Bucks ended on a strong note, winning 8 of their last 10 games. With tons of expectations on them in the 2025-26 season, injury problems caused a lack of cohesion in the locker room, resulting in another slow start. Antetokounmpo couldn’t stay fit, and that led to the Bucks spiralling even further.
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What sparked Doc Rivers’ retirement rumors?
Rivers’ retirement rumors stem from Smith’s radio show yesterday. His coaching record in Milwaukee currently stands at 92-89, and the Bucks fans have been vocal about their criticism of the veteran.
Rivers, who famously led the Boston Celtics to the 2008 NBA Championship, has spent 27 years coaching in the league. His career includes stints with the Orlando Magic, the Celtics, the Philadelphia 76ers, the Los Angeles Clippers, and, of course, the Bucks. He was voted Coach of the Year after his first year in Orlando. By the end of 2025, Rivers had surpassed 1,175 career wins, putting him among the top six coaches in NBA history in total victories.
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While Smith’s statement was unequivocal, Rivers himself has not commented, and the ultimate decision may hinge on how this turbulent season concludes, regardless of whether Antetokounmpo exits. Rivers hasn’t been able to guide the team past the first round of the playoffs in his tenure.
One thing remains mostly certain: Rivers will be involved in basketball, whether as an analyst or coach. Prior to taking the Bucks role, he was asked to replace Jeff Van Gundy and Mark Jackson as ESPN’s lead NBA analyst alongside Mike Breen and Doris Burke. It’s something he might return to.
LeBron James passes Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to set another NBA record
Already the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, Los Angeles Lakers legend LeBron James etched his name in the record books one more time.
In the first half the Lakers’ matchup with Denver Nuggets on Thursday night, James bodied up Nuggets big Zeke Nnaji and then turned around to drill a jump shot. But James’ basket in the final seconds of the first quarter wasn’t just any old two points out of his growing total.
LeBron James passed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar once again
James, 41, set a new league record for the most field goals, passing the same Lakers icon who held the total points mark up until last season, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
When James passed Abdul-Jabbar, he had 15,838 field goals, connecting on four of his first five in the game against Denver.
James and Abdul-Jabbar are the only two players to reach and surpass 15,000 field goals. And in fact, they are the only two players to ever even hit 14,000.
In third place, is Karl Malone with 13,528. Wilt Chamberlain (12,681) and Michael Jordan (12,192) round out the top four on the all-time list. No one else has achieved 12,000 in a career.
LeBron James’ career will likely never be duplicated
Amid his NBA-record 23rd season, James continues to create an entirely new standard for longevity. He entered Thursday averaging 21.6 points, 5.7 rebounds and 7.0 assists while shooting 50.2% from the field.
In addition to his lofty all-time totals and records, James is a 22-time All-Star, the most in history, a 13-time All-NBA first-team selection, a four-time league MVP, four-time NBA champion, four-time Finals MVP, a three-time All-Star MVP and even a three-time Olympic gold medalist.
No matter where anyone wants to rank James in terms of his place among the game’s all-time best, there’s no denying he has more than exceeded the hype that surrounded his No. 1 overall selection in the 2002 NBA Draft.
In all likelihood, James’ full body of work will stand the test of time as an unmatched display of unparalleled greatness.
Cooper Flagg’s Performance in Return From Injury Proves Rookie of the Year Remains His to Lose
Rookie phenom Cooper Flagg returned Thursday against the Magic following an eight-game absence due to a left foot sprain.
Early in his return to the court, he scored his 1,000th career point in only his 50th game. At 19 years and 74 days old, he became the second youngest player in NBA history to reach the mark—behind only LeBron James, of course.
James reached 1,000 points at 19 years and 41 days old. Flagg has been sidelined since Feb. 10, so he wouldn’t have broken James’s record as the youngest player to reach the mark if he didn’t get injured. However, Flagg did accomplish something James wasn’t able to.
According the ESPN, Flagg became just the ninth player in NBA history to reach 1,000 points, 300 rebounds and 200 assists over his first 50 games. Since the 1976-77 NBA-ABA merger, only Luka Dončić and Michael Jordan have done that.
While Flagg was on the shelf, his Duke teammate Kon Knueppel continued his incredible rookie season with the Hornets. Knueppel leads the NBA with 216 three-pointers thus far through the year. Heading into Thursday, no other player had hit more than 200. He smashed the rookie record for most threes with plenty of time to spare. With Flagg out since before the All-Star break, his friend and college teammate was able to close the gap in the Rookie of the Year race and maybe even pulled ahead as the favorite.
But, with Flagg’s return Thursday, he proved that his rookie season is historic in its own right. Any time Flagg is on the floor, he’s shown the makings of the NBA’s next true superstar.
Cooper Flagg becomes youngest player to 1,000 points besides LeBron James
As Flagg made his NBA debut at 18 years old, there was a question as to how much of an impact he could make right away for a Mavericks team that had plenty of questions aside from the new face of the franchise. He put any of those questions to bed early, dropping 35 points in just his 20th career game on Nov. 29 against the Clippers. He had an even better month in December, where he celebrated his 19th birthday on Dec. 21, averaging 23.5 points per game over the month.
Dominating the NBA at such a young age puts Flagg in elite company. Here’s a look at the youngest players to reach 1,000 career points.
The Rookie of the Year race between Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel
Flagg and Knueppel each have a strong case to receive Rookie of the Year honors at the end of the season. When Flagg’s on the court, he looks every bit the part of the next face of the NBA, leading rookies in scoring with 20.4 points per game while dominating on the defensive end. Knueppel, on the other hand, is right behidn him with 19.2 points per night. He leads the entire NBA in three-pointers, already owns the rookie record for threes and is a key piece of the Hornets’ recent resurgence. At 21–41, the Mavs’ season is over while the Hornets are playing for the postseason.
Team context aside, Rookie of the Year is an individual award and both players have a great case that makes voter’s jobs extremely difficult. Here’s how the Duke teammates stack up against one another statistically heading toward the end of the regular season.
Next for Flagg is a homecoming as the Mavs travel to TD Garden to play the Celtics. It’s the first and only time the Maine native will play in Boston this season, while the game holds plenty of intrigue for the Celtics as well with Jayson Tatum’s potential return.
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Magic Johnson Makes Feelings Clear After Teammate Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Record Falls to LeBron James
Another record achieved for LeBron James. Once again, the benchmark he broke belonged to Lakers icon Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for decades. The Akron Hammer hit a fadeaway for his 15,838 bucket in his storied NBA career. Now, every other field goal he makes creates a bigger gap for peers to catch up. Likewise, congratulations poured in.
The biggest came from within the Lakers fraternity. Five-time NBA champion Magic Johnson, a former teammate of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, lauded James for storming past the record.
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Johnson wrote, “I want to congratulate Lakers legend and superstar LeBron James on becoming the all-time leader for field goals made in NBA history – passing my Showtime Lakers teammate Kareem Abdul-Jabbar!”
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Magic Johnson understands what it takes for an NBA player to have a long career. The league hasn’t seen anybody like James before, who continues to maintain an elite standard even in Year 23. Furthermore, to Johnson, there’s a personal glory in seeing the four-time MVP break records wearing the Purple and Gold.
Notably, when Magic served as a GM for the Lakers, he personally met with LeBron James to lure him to LA. The Akron Hammer admitted Johnson’s pitch played a role in his decision to come to the City of Angels. Even his abrupt stepping down upset LeBron James. There’s no doubt they share a great relationship, enhanced by their now shared history with the Lakers.
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However, Johnson will hope this doesn’t turn out to be the usual record-breaking night. Why do I say that? Generally speaking, the Lakers haven’t done well when LeBron James makes history.
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Can the Lakers snap the LeBron James curse?
When LeBron James broke the all-time minutes record, the 76ers beat the Lakers. When he took his position as the all-time leading scorer, OKC thwarted the Purple and Gold. It’s become a theme. There’s always a bittersweet lining for Lakers fans when the Akron Hammer breaks a historic record.
They’ve started at the backfoot against the Denver Nuggets, too. Notably, James had an efficient first half, pouring in a few more buckets on top of breaking the record. However, the Lakers have had a hard time containing the Nuggets’ electric shooting.
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Jamal Murray exploded in the first half, scoring 20 points to go with five assists. On top of that, the Nuggets have been shooting the three with unreal efficiency. They’ve made 11 of their 20 attempts halfway through the third quarter. The Lakers have also yet to take a lead in this contest.
We wish it weren’t the case, but unless there’s a miraculous comeback, the Lakers may fall on a night of celebration once again. They have won against the Nuggets after initially trailing once this season. Do you think the Lakers could do it again? Let us know your honest views in the comments below.
6 sneaky-fun teams to watch this season
The great NBA writer and podcaster Zach Lowe puts together an annual list called his NBA League Pass Rankings, based on watchability — which teams, when you stumble across one of their games, you don’t dare click away. I’ve always loved this feature, because, as a sports fan, you understand it implicitly: A team’s quality, in terms of wins and losses, can be entirely independent from how purely enjoyable they are to watch.
Inspired by Lowe, we’re going to apply his general idea to the baseball world, for when you find yourself flipping around on MLB.TV, looking for a game on which to focus. We’re not going to list all 30 teams here — you probably don’t need us to tell you that the Shohei Ohtani-led Dodgers are highly watchable — but instead pick out six squads that we’re going to find ourselves watching all year, no matter where they are in the standings.
Winning always helps, of course, and it’s nice to have postseason stakes involved, especially once we get late in the regular season. But still, there are teams that, even if they aren’t contenders, I know that when I come across them in, say, mid-June, I will watch every pitch. Maybe they’ve got one or two particularly electric players. Maybe they’re plucky enough to make a surprising run. Maybe they’ve just got a fanbase that’s starting to rev itself up, that senses something cool may be happening. But they are teams you can’t look away from.
Frankly, Nick Kurtz himself would probably be enough to get the A’s on this list. There is some question as to whether he’ll be able to put up the sort of absolutely ridiculous numbers over a full sophomore season that he did in his AL Rookie of the Year campaign, when he basically hit like Ohtani and Aaron Judge. He’ll still be pretty great even if he can’t match up to that in 2026 — and heaven help us if he even improves — but he’s not the only party going on in West Sacramento.
This lineup is, rather famously at this point, packed with exciting young position players, from Tyler Soderstrom (24) to Jacob Wilson (23) to Lawrence Butler (25) to the highlight-reel catch machine that is Denzel Clarke (25). (MLB Pipeline’s No. 4 prospect, 19-year-old Leo De Vries, is on the way, too.) Add in “veterans” Brent Rooker and Shea Langeliers, and you’re going to see a lot of offense. Sure, the pitching staff is also likely to provide a lot of offense, but hey: Who doesn’t like to watch a lot of late-night offense!
My colleague Mike Petriello has already made the case that the Marlins should not be so easily dismissed in the NL East race. I find this case a compelling one. It’s not just that they’ve got some exciting young hitters in outfielders Owen Caissie, Kyle Stowers and Jakob Marsee, or a cadre of young pitchers who, if they all click at the same time, could be a downright terrifying rotation to face one after another.
But it’s also, as Petriello points out, that the Marlins — out of necessity, desperation, innovation or a combination of all three — are being downright experimental this year, in a variety of ways. It’s always fun to watch a team try to do something different. And the Marlins, no matter what happens, are definitely going to be doing that.
We still don’t know if MLB Pipeline No. 1 prospect Konnor Griffin — who, absurdly, remains only 19 years old — is going to be on the Opening Day roster for the Pirates. If he is, well, he’ll be a must-watch player every game. But the Pirates are a sneaky interesting team for MLB.TV watchability even if he doesn’t start the year with the big club.
That obviously starts with Paul Skenes, whose every start is a must-watch affair. But even when Skenes isn’t on the mound, the Bucs’ pitching staff will make for compelling viewing, whether it’s Braxton Ashcraft, No. 11 prospect Bubba Chandler (who could be a riveting Robin to Skenes’ Batman) or even Jared Jones, who has a shot to be back in action by June.
The offense should be better this year, too, with help from some offseason additions. And while Oneil Cruz hasn’t become the star everyone hoped he’d be, his enormous raw talent means that he can do things nobody else can do in those moments when it all comes together. Add in those classic jerseys and that beautiful ballpark, and I’m never turning off a Pirates home game.
They’re back at Tropicana Field this year, which is its own feel-good story after a season at the Yankees’ spring home in Tampa. The Trop gets a bad rap sometimes, but it’s not without its charms, and I suspect, the first few times you see it, you’ll realize you kind of missed it.
But what’s most intriguing about the Rays is that, even after trading away Brandon Lowe and Jake Mangum, how many bats they might have. They’re led of course by Junior Caminero — who hit 45 homers in 2025! And he’s still only 22! — but there are actually quite a few guys who will be fun to watch progress this year, from speedster Chandler Simpson to (especially) No. 63 prospect Carson Williams at shortstop to even Gavin Lux, who will get another opportunity to show his stuff for a full season, unimpeded.
There are other sources of intrigue — Shane McClanahan is finally back after two lost seasons — but the Rays have a quirkiness about them this year that, in a tough division, will either surprise some people or flame out spectacularly.
This one isn’t all that complicated. You’ve got a sneaky-awesome pitching staff, full of dudes who throw ridiculously hard, but, mostly, you’ve got Elly De La Cruz. I’m not sure there’s a more fascinating player in baseball this season than Elly. His talent is otherworldly, as anyone who has ever watched him play can tell immediately. (He always looks like he was beamed here from another planet.)
But the process of that transcendent talent translating to production has been a choppy one. De La Cruz is hypnotic to watch, even when he’s flailing. But if he can ever put it all together — and it seems like maybe now’s about the time it would happen, if it’s ever going to? — he could honestly rival Ohtani in watchability. De La Cruz is a player who looks like, at any moment, he might just sprout wings and fly away. Maybe this is the year he does.
The White Sox were better last year than you remember. They weren’t good, let’s not get carried away. They did lose 102 games, after all. But that’s still 19 fewer games than they lost in 2024, and there were little signs of hope here. Shane Smith, a 2024 Rule 5 Draft pick, now looks like a solid starter, one who is still only 25 years old. Shortstop Colson Montgomery had a legitimately breakthrough season and, at 24, may have another one coming. Fellow position player prospects like Kyle Teel, Edgar Quero and Chase Meidroth also debuted and showed some promise.
And now there’s Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami, with whom the White Sox surprised many by being able to sign in free agency. There will be many homers launched on the South Side this year, always a compelling visual on MLB.TV. And heck, you can always know that the Pope may be watching, too.
More history from LeBron James, passes Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for most field goals made in NBA history
Another game, another record for LeBron James.
With a baseline fadeaway in the first quarter, LeBron James made his 15,838th basket, passing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (15,837) for the most field goals made in NBA history.
LeBron, 41 and in his 23rd NBA season, passed Abdul-Jabbar in points scored in February 2023, but because the 3-point shot didn’t exist for some of Abdul-Jabbar’s career, he made more field goals to get his points (Abdul-Jabbar made one in his 20 NBA seasons, on 18 attempts). LeBron is also the leading scorer in NBA playoff history and is the only player in NBA history to have more than 50,000 points in the regular season and postseason combined.
LeBron also has attempted more field goals than any player in NBA history.
Angel Reese’s 3-Word Reaction Goes Viral After Brother Julian Mirrors Her Historic Stat Line
Angel Reese had tears in her eyes as her brother finally made it. Julian Reese, who once competed with Angel on their home basketball court, debuted in the NBA for the Washington Wizards. An emotional Angel sat on the sidelines in his second game and cheered on her brother. After the game, she posted a childhood photo of them together while writing, FOREVER US ♾.” Now, Julian Reese has echoed her sister on the court, just in his third career NBA game.
Going up against the Utah Jazz, Julian went off. Reese ended with 18 points while going 5-7 on the field and 8-8 from the free throw line. More importantly, he added 20 rebounds that included 10 offensive rebounds, 2 assists and 1 steal in 38 minutes. In doing so, he became the youngest NBA player to record 18+ points and 10+ offensive boards in a game this season. Angel Reese was the youngest to record the same in the WNBA last season.
“JUJU MF REESE. @Reese10Julian,” Angel Reese wrote, hyping her brother up on matching her statline. His 20 rebounds are also the most by any Wizards rookie since Tom Giggliotta in 1993. The rebound habit seems to run in the family, as Julian’s performance has got the NBA and the WNBA Community talking.
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Fans Hype Angel Reese’s Brother After Eye-Catching Performance
“18 Points and 20 rebounds. Like brother, like sister,” wrote a fan. Angel Reese is the queen of rebounds. Last season, she averaged a whopping 12.6 rebounds and 14.7 points for the Chicago Sky. Julian was always the rebound master, averaging 9 rebounds in his senior year at Maryland and 6.2 rebounds in the G-League. But now he has shown his quality on the big stage, earning comparisons to the legendary Dennis Rodman.
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“Reese is somehow short for Rodman,” wrote a fan. “Rodman-esque!!!! 🔥🔥,” commented another. Dennis Rodman is the poster boy for defensive ability. In his 14 years in the NBA, Rodman averaged 7.3 points and 13.1 rebounds. At his peak, he was averaging more than 18 rebounds a game, playing a vital part in the Chicago Bulls and Detroit Pistons dynasties.
Of course it’s too early to put Angel or Julian Reese in comparison with Rodman, but both seem to have a similar skillset. But with a modern twist, today, each player needs to score and both Julian and Angel are keeping up with that requirement as well. However, Julian has a lot more hurdles to pass through to establish his place in the NBA.
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Reese went undrafted out of college last year. He joined the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2025 NBA Summer League. Then in October last year, Reese signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Toronto Raptors, getting experience in the NBA’s developmental league. His breakthrough finally came in 2026 in the Wizards’ injury crisis. They needed help and signed Julian on a two-way contract. While the spotlight shined on Angel and her relationship with Julian, some rightly pointed out their mother’s role in their success.
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“Their mama raised some hoopers,” wrote another fan. Even Angel Reese herself credits most of their talent to their mother. “Family business!” Angel Reese posted. “We get it from our momma!” Angel and Julian’s mother, Angel Webb Reese, was also a basketball player in her college days, as she spent four seasons playing for the UMBC before going pro in Luxembourg.
Webb Reese was a 5-foot-11 forward at UMBC from 1988-92 where, just like her children, she was an elite board crasher, averaging 13.2 rebounds per game in her senior season with the Retrievers. Over her career, she averaged 12.8 points per game as well. Even their father was a professional basketball player. Michael played for Boston College, transferring to Loyola University in Maryland. He also played overseas. Both inculcated the basketball habit in their children right from childhood. Today, both have emerged successful and are on the upward track.
German star Marco Reus extends contract with LA Galaxy through 2027
CARSON, Calif. (AP) — German midfielder Marco Reus has extended his contract with the LA Galaxy through December 2027.
The Galaxy announced the extension Saturday for the 36-year-old Reus, who joined the Major League Soccer club in August 2024 after 12 successful years with Borussia Dortmund.
Reus immediately played an important role in the Galaxy’s surge to their league-record sixth MLS Cup championship in late 2024, and he has been largely outstanding when healthy during his stateside tenure. He has 22 goal contributions in 42 matches, including five goals and nine assists last season.
“Marco brings an incredible level of quality, experience and leadership to our group,” Galaxy general manager Will Kuntz said in a statement. “His professionalism and standards elevate everyone around him, both on the pitch and in the locker room. We’re excited that Marco will continue to be a part of the Galaxy family.”
Before he joined the Galaxy, Reus scored 170 goals from 2012 to 2024 for his hometown club and was twice selected as the German Footballer of the Year. Dortmund reached two Champions League finals while Reus became only the third player in Bundesliga history to have 100 goals and 100 assists.
Reus also was a regular for the German national team for more than a decade, but untimely injuries prevented him from playing in three of the four World Cup tournaments during that stretch.
Reus has been the Galaxy’s captain for two matches early this year, and he assisted on their first goal of the season last week.
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5 best MLS candidates besides Lionel Messi to win 2026 FIFA World Cup’s Golden Boot
Son Heung-Min got an early start on soccer’s North America showcase, arriving from Tottenham in a league-record deal worth a reported $26.5 million last year. The South Korean captain immediately redefined the league’s star-chasing ceiling. He posted 12 goals and three assists in 13 games, including the 2025 playoffs. Fans will never forget that stunning free-kick equalizer against Vancouver. LAFC ultimately fell short of the MLS Cup, but Son has plenty left in the tank.
Two assists in two games to start 2026 provide that evidence. Sure, the 33-year-old’s legs are not quite as spry these days, but the LAFC star is a national hero. Still one of the most dangerous wingers in the world, Son is surely going to lead the Opening Match lines versus whoever survives the UEFA World Cup Knockout gauntlet.
Getting up for Mexico in Guadalajara for the second game will test Son’s cardio as much as the mental strength. His heart is undeniable. Son (140 caps, 54 goals) remains a dynamic force capable of dismantling defenses with pace, finishing, and vision. If South Korea advances deep into the tournament, experience in high-pressure environments would likely propel him to Golden Boot contention. Son has that in spades and keeps popping up in the right places for LAFC.
James Rodriguez seeks redemption
Rodriguez is Colombia’s second all-time leading scorer with 31 goals and 41 assists in 122 caps. He won the 2014 Golden Boot in Brazil, leading to a huge transfer to Real Madrid. The former Los Cafeteros captain is on the outside looking in as well, hence the winter window MLS move. Stops at Bayern Munich, Everton, Olympiacos, São Paulo, and Club León had worn the tread down on the tires.
Néstor Lorenzo needs a long look at Rodriguez’s form with Minnesota United. Sure, his lethal set pieces and vision remain well above average. Those traits will come in handy when trying to break down a bunkered defense or chasing a goal. His 34-year-old legs will not last long in Estadio Azteca against Uzbekistan, though, so coming on as a 60-minute super sub in every game is the best bet to bag a goal a game.
Miguel Almirón’s new magic
Almirón returned to Atlanta United in January 2025, completing a reunion with the club that first made him a star. For the last act of their international careers, Tata Martino is back to try to recapture that magic on the international stage. Yup, that’s right. The same coach who steered Atlanta to the 2018 MLS Cup with Almirón (74 caps, 9 goals, 5 assists) and Joseph Martinez is back with a new blueprint built for knockout competition.
Atlanta United’s dynamic winger led the Five Stripes with 12 goal contributions (six goals, six assists) in 31 starts in 2025. The 32-year old’s effect on a game is still profound, providing the spark and leadership Martino needs. Almirón played 15 CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying matches as Paraguay ended a 16-year drought to qualify for the tournament.
Premier pace and ability to cut inside from the right flank make him a nightmare matchup for any defender. The USMNT will find out personally on June 12.
Joseph Paintsil pushing the pace
The Ghanaian winger has been one of the Los Angeles Galaxy’s most reliable performers (24 goals, 16 assists in 58 games) since arriving. Arguably the fastest player on the planet and a growing force for the Black Stars, Joseph Paintsil is one of the league’s most exciting players as well. His ability to unlock defenses off the dribble makes him a consistent threat, and if Ghana can get him into space, he has the finishing quality to make a lasting impression. The problem has been working through the occasional knock.
Paintsil has been involved inconsistently with Ghana’s national team (17 caps, 8 starts) but is starting to come on strong in MLS action. Earning a spot on the 26-man roster seems a foregone conclusion if finally fully healthy. The 28-year-old represents the elder part of a new generation hoping to restore Ghana’s status as a tournament contender.
Petar Musa keeps Croatia cool
The FC Dallas forward is on the bubble, but Petar Musa’s MLS form may force manager Zlatko Dalić’s hand. Croatia needs someone cool in front of goal to clear the group stage. Musa has been prolific in MLS, bagging 37 goals and 10 assists in 58 appearances so far. Clinical finishing and aerial ability are not in doubt, and every country needs those qualities during a World Cup run.
With two goals in two games to start the 2026 MLS season, the 27-year-old could be the focal point of an attack that needs to move on from Luka Modric. Croatia traditionally spreads scoring responsibility across multiple players, but Musa’s penalty-box instincts and physical presence give him a chance to emerge as the team’s starting striker.
Few players enter the tournament with Musa’s combination of form and opportunity. Being in a group with England, Ghana, and Panama is perfect tactically. Musa might have to steal one singlehandedly against the Three Lions, but the other two games should be wide open with plenty of opportunities. If Croatia navigates a favorable knockout path and Musa capitalizes on defensive lapses from opponents, he could rack up 5-7 goals, echoing James Rodríguez’s 2014 breakout or Thomas Müller’s 2010 haul.
You Can Now Subscribe to Apple TV Through the Roku Channel
Roku has teamed up with Apple to offer the Apple TV subscription service on the Roku Channel, giving Roku users easy access to Apple’s streaming service. The Roku Channel is available across all Roku devices, and it provides access to free content as well as premium subscriptions.
With the partnership, Apple could see subscriber growth, while Roku will be able to offer subscribers access to popular content like Formula 1, Major League Soccer, and Major League Baseball. Apple TV via the Roku Channel is still priced at $12.99 per month or $99 per year, with a 7-day free trial.
Roku has partnered with a long list of premium services, including Starz, Paramount+, HBO Max, AMC+, Britbox, Crunchyroll, Shudder, and more, with a full list available on the Roku website. With Roku Channel, premium services are managed through a user’s Roku account. There has been an Apple TV app available on Roku since 2019, but the Roku Channel recommends Apple TV content alongside other content, and makes it easier for customers to subscribe.
Apple TV on the Roku Channel can be watched on a long list of devices, including smart TVs, streaming players from Amazon, Google, and Roku, the web, and on iOS and Android devices.
Apple has a similar feature for third-party services, Apple Channels. With Apple Channels, users can subscribe to premium content through the Apple TV app and manage that content through their Apple Accounts.
MLS, Whitecaps to pay $347K settlement for Lionel Messi absence
March 3 – The Vancouver Whitecaps and Major League Soccer will pay $347,000 to settle a class-action lawsuit filed in Canada after Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi did not appear in a 2024 game as advertised.
The British Columbia Supreme Court approved the settlement, The Athletic reported on Tuesday.
The Whitecaps heavily promoted the appearance of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner ahead of a May 25, 2024 game, anticipating a record-breaking crowd at Vancouver’s BC Place stadium. Ticket prices skyrocketed.
Unfortunately, Messi, who was playing his first full season in MLS that year, ended up not traveling to the game — along with fellow standouts Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets — because then-Miami coach Tata Martino said he wanted to
MLS, Whitecaps to pay $347K settlement for Lionel Messi absence
The Vancouver Whitecaps and Major League Soccer will pay $347,000 to settle a class-action lawsuit filed in Canada after Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi did not appear in a 2024 game as advertised.
The British Columbia Supreme Court approved the settlement, The Athletic reported on Tuesday.
The Whitecaps heavily promoted the appearance of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner ahead of a May 25, 2024 game, anticipating a record-breaking crowd at Vancouver’s BC Place stadium. Ticket prices skyrocketed.
Unfortunately, Messi, who was playing his first full season in MLS that year, ended up not traveling to the game — along with fellow standouts Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets — because then-Miami coach Tata Martino said he wanted to
Fire break ground on new stadium, take lead on city peers and move closer to igniting Chicago soccer
The Fire have spent much of their existence looking for a new home. Now they’re ahead of other Chicago teams in the stadium game.
On Tuesday, the Fire broke ground on their new arena in The 78. The $750 million privately funded facility is expected to open in late summer 2028.
“This isn’t just a stadium, it’s a statement of ambition,” Fire owner and chairman Joe Mansueto said during his speech. “It’s about pride. It’s about believing in the city of Chicago.”
Stadium intrigue has been one of the biggest stories around Chicago sports over the past few years.
Dissatisfied with Rate Field, the White Sox released renderings for a new stadium at The 78. Owner Jerry Reinsdorf even met with Nashville mayor Freddie O’Connell during the 2023 Winter Meetings.
The Bears, currently the Fire’s roommate at Soldier Field, are in the midst of a quixotic quest for a new home that could end up in Arlington Heights or Northwest Indiana. Mayor Brandon Johnson kept Chicago itself in the picture, reiterating Tuesday that the Bears belong within city limits.
Meanwhile, the Fire are two years away from their own field on a desired plot of land. And nothing in the Fire’s history would indicate they’d be in this spot compared to some of their Chicago peers.
In 2006, the Fire thought they had found their long-term home when they moved to suburban Bridgeview. The soccer-specific venue offered intimate sightlines and gave the Fire the first choice of dates for matches.
Though the facility remained a capable host to soccer, by the end of the 2010s it was clear the Fire were looking to exit. The arena had fallen behind newer grounds, and the team’s on-field decline paired with Bridgeview’s location meant attendance plummeted.
In late 2019, Mansueto announced he was moving the Fire back to Soldier Field. Observers predicted it was a temporary solution and not a permanent answer because of inevitable issues with field conditions, choice of dates and creating a soccer atmosphere.
Those problems should be a thing of the past now for the Fire, and the new building could potentially spark a market that’s been underserved by its team. Despite the city’s strong soccer history, whether it’s the old North American Soccer League’s Sting or a flourishing youth and amateur scene, the Fire haven’t been one of MLS’ flagship clubs for over 15 years.
MLS commissioner Don Garber said, around six weeks ago, he drove around the city with Mansueto and visited the team’s new training center. The visit showed Garber again that Chicago is a soccer town.
“The Chicago Fire have had a small but rabid fan base, particularly among their supporters, and they’ve been missing something,” Garber said. “[Mansueto] mentioned it when he talked about his vision. He believes in the city, he believes in this team, believes in the sport, and believes that if he can deliver a best-in-class, world-class soccer stadium, it’ll connect all the dots and give this city what it is that I think they want.
“They want to be a leading city. They’re tired of hearing about other cities that have proven that they can really move the needle in the United States. This city and its fans want to move the needle and I am highly confident that they’ll be able to do that.”
The Fire are in the lead in another category: building a new stadium in the city.
Bradley Carnell says ‘sometimes, the moment gets to’ his Union players, and he wants to fix it
As dispiriting as the Union’s loss to New York City FC on Sunday was, something manager Bradley Carnell said afterward felt just as significant.
“We know we’re not quite where we need to be, and that’s totally understandable, but it’s no excuses either,” he said. “Obviously, the team’s not happy, and a lot of it is self-inflicted over the last two weeks, if you look at that — two red cards in two games. And this is something [where] when one guy’s disconnected, or when one red card happens, then we’ve created a mountain [for] ourselves to climb.”
He then added a believe that “we have a young, hungry, squad, and sometimes the moment gets to us a little bit. And this we have to learn, we have to grow [from], and we have to have these experiences.”
With no midweek game this week, Carnell had time to address that, and he said during his meeting with media members on Thursday that he did so.
“We’ve expected more out of ourselves in terms of being sharp mentally and cognitively,” he said in a news conference ahead of Saturday’s game against the San Jose Earthquakes at Subaru Park (7:30 p.m., Apple TV). “Just thinking about an ‘if’ moment, or a follow-on from a set piece, or a follow-on from an attacking sequence.”
There was some good news, as new left back Philippe Ndinga arrived in Chester. But he isn’t ready to play yet, and Carnell signaled it might be a few more days.
“He’s raring to go, but there’s a bit of paperwork to get through, a bit of medical stuff to get through,” Carnell said. “Push comes to shove, we can get him squad-ready, potentially. But I don’t want to just make a claim like that just yet.”
» READ MORE: Indiana Vassilev has remained the roaring engine driving the Union attack: ‘He’s been really important’
So for now, the Union are going to have to sort things out with what they have. After hosting the Earthquakes on Saturday, Mexican power Club América will come to town Tuesday to start the Concacaf Champions Cup’s round of 16.
One step can come at the attacking end of the field. Carnell said he counted 20 instances in just Sunday’s first half “where we had a positive transition moment, where we turned over the ball and started a sequence in an overload [man advantage], and we don’t come to fruition [with] that.”
The other can come anywhere, but starts in the head.
“Self-inflicted red cards, I would say, this is not the way that it should be done,” Carnell said. “Very cheap ways to let your teammates down and you know I think [Olwethu] Makhanya’s learned a good lesson, I think ‘Eze’ [Alladoh]’s learned his lesson and we can continue to grow as a team.”
» READ MORE: Self-inflicted wounds, new-look lineup have conspired in Union’s shaky start
A reunion with Julián Carranza
When former Union striker Julián Carranza joined Mexican club Necaxa in January, it felt inevitable that his new and old teams would cross paths at some point. Right on cue, it will happen this summer.
Necaxa is one of three teams the Union will face in the group stage of the Leagues Cup, the annual tournament pitting MLS squads against those from Mexico’s Liga MX. The game will take place on Aug. 9, a Sunday, at Subaru Park.
The Union dealt Carranza to Dutch club Feyenoord in July 2024, as he wanted to raise his stock for Argentina’s World Cup team. But it didn’t work out for him, as he scored just five goals in 30 games.
Then he went on loan to English second-division club Leicester City, and that was even worse: zero goals in nine games, and a lot of time on the bench. Necaxa offered around $4 million to bring him to Mexico, and Feyenoord accepted. Carranza has three goals in six games there so far.
The reunion will be the Union’s second contest of the group stage. All three group games will be against Mexican opponents, and all will be at Subaru Park. The opener will be against traditional power Cruz Azul on Thursday, Aug. 6, and the finale will be Thursday, Aug. 13, against Santos Laguna.
» READ MORE: Matt Freese thwarts the Union again, this time with his biggest USMNT games of all on the horizon
Leagues Cup 101
Leagues Cups groups are set based on a combined table of the 18 MLS teams that qualify (the 18 that make the playoffs) and the 18 Mexican teams (the whole of Liga MX) in the field. They are ranked by last year’s regular-season standings, then split in half based on geography.
From there, each mixed pot of 18 teams is ranked again, then split into three groups of six each. Each group has one MLS team and one Mexican team from the top third, one each from the middle third, and one each from the bottom third. Each team then plays three games, all against teams from the other country. (The other MLS teams in the Union’s group are Chicago and New York City.)
Yes, this is complex, but we’re almost done. Tournament results are counted in one big table, similar to Europe’s Champions League. The top four MLS teams and the top four Mexican teams advance to the quarterfinals.
The point of it all is to have as many MLS vs. Liga MX games as possible, since they’re more interesting than matchups of teams within each league.
For all the technicalities, the big prize at the end is clear. The top three finishers qualify for next year’s Concacaf Champions Cup, with the winner earning a bye into the round of 16.
Lionel Messi and Inter Miami feted by President Donald Trump at the White House for MLS Cup title
WASHINGTON (AP) — Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates were honored by President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday for winning last year’s MLS Cup.
Miami beat the Vancouver Whitecaps in December for the Major League Soccer title, and the Argentinian superstar was named the league’s MVP for the second consecutive season.
“Leo, you came in and you won, and that’s something very hard to do, very, very unusual and frankly, there’s a lot more pressure put on you than anyone would know, because you sort of expected to win, but almost nobody wins,” Trump said.
Messi, who entered the ceremony alongside Trump, joined Inter Miami in 2023. He did not speak during the event.
Among the other Inter Miami stars in attendance were Luis Suárez, Tadeo Allende and Rodrigo De Paul. MLS Commissioner Don Garber sat next to Andrew Giuliani, head of the White House’s World Cup task force. Also attending were retired baseball star Alex Rodriguez and members of Trump’s cabinet.
Inter Miami was the first MLS team to be invited to the White House during Trump’s two terms in office.
Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, led Argentina to the World Cup title in 2022. The 38-year-old is expected to play again for Argentina this summer when the tournament is hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Soccer’s global showcase has been clouded by recent events, including the war with Iran and turmoil in Mexico following the death of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera in a military operation.
Iran is part of the World Cup field of 48 teams and is set to play a pair of games at SoFi Stadium in Southern California and another in Seattle during the group stage.
Trump opened the ceremony with comments about the conflict with Iran but did not mention the World Cup.
Following military action by the United States and Israel last week, Iran’s top soccer official, Mehdi Taj, said the country could not look to playing in the World Cup with “hope.”
“I really don’t care” if Iran participates, Trump told Politico this week. “I think Iran is a very badly defeated country. They’re running on fumes.”
It’s not clear what would happen if Iran pulled out of the World Cup. No team that has qualified for the tournament has withdrawn in the past 75 years.
The World Cup kicks off on June 11 when Mexico plays South Africa in Mexico City.
During the ceremony, Trump spoke about how he saw Brazilian great Pele play with the New York Cosmos. He looked to Messi: “You may be better than Pele,” then asked the crowd, “Who’s better?”
Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas said his team has “changed the culture of football in the United States of America forever.”
“We can play with the big boys, we can play with the heavyweights. Our league can be one of the top leagues in the world,” Mas said. “And it is this ability to dream, to persevere, to have no obstacles ahead of us, that we will continue to be successful. And hopefully, Mr. President, this is not our only visit here celebrating an MLS Cup championship.”
It was the first White House visit for Messi. He was invited by the Biden administration to be presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom last year but could not attend because of a scheduling conflict.
Inter Miami will remain in the area to play D.C. United on Saturday.
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Lionel Messi, Inter Miami Feted By President Donald Trump At The White House For MLS Cup Title Win
ARG superstar Lionel Messi & his Inter Miami were feted by US Prez Trump
Miami beat the Vancouver Whitecaps in Dec for the Major League Soccer title
Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, led Argentina to the World Cup title in 2022
Lionel Messi bestowed President Donald Trump with a bejeweled pink soccer ball during a White House ceremony honoring Inter Miami for winning last year’s MLS Cup.
Miami beat the Vancouver Whitecaps in December for the Major League Soccer title, and the Argentinian superstar was named the league’s MVP for the second consecutive season.
“Leo, you came in and you won, and that’s something very hard to do, very, very unusual and frankly, there’s a lot more pressure put on you than anyone would know, because you sort of expected to win, but almost nobody wins,” Trump said.
Messi, who entered the ceremony alongside Trump, joined Inter Miami in mid-2023 to great fanfare. He did not speak during the event, which turned political at times with Trump addressing the war with Iran, the situation in Venezuela, a possible future announcement regarding Cuba and even tariffs.
Addressing Messi — who famously avoids speaking out on politics — the President stuck mostly to sports.
“You could have gone anywhere in the world. You could have chosen any team in the world, and you chose to go to Miami. I don’t blame you. The weather’s extremely good. Do you go to Doral? You go to Doral and play golf?” Trump said, referencing a golf course he owns. “I just want to thank you for bringing us all on this ride, because you are hot and talented and a great person.”
Among the other Inter Miami stars in attendance were Luis Suárez, Tadeo Allende and Rodrigo De Paul. MLS Commissioner Don Garber sat next to Andrew Giuliani, head of the White House’s World Cup task force. Also attending were retired baseball star Alex Rodriguez and members of Trump’s cabinet.
Inter Miami was the first MLS team to be invited to the White House during Trump’s two terms in office.
Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, led Argentina to the World Cup title in 2022. The 38-year-old is expected to play again for Argentina this summer when the tournament is hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Football’s global showcase has been clouded by recent events, including the war with Iran and turmoil in Mexico following the death of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera in a military operation.
Iran is part of the World Cup field of 48 teams and is set to play a pair of games at SoFi Stadium in Southern California and another in Seattle during the group stage.
Trump opened the ceremony with comments about the conflict with Iran but did not mention the World Cup.
Following military action by the United States and Israel last week, Iran’s top football official, Mehdi Taj, said the country could not look to playing in the World Cup with “hope.”
“I really don’t care” if Iran participates, Trump told Politico this week. “I think Iran is a very badly defeated country. They’re running on fumes.”
It’s not clear what would happen if Iran pulled out of the World Cup. No team that has qualified for the tournament has withdrawn in the past 75 years.
The World Cup kicks off on June 11 when Mexico plays South Africa in Mexico City.
During the ceremony, Trump spoke about how he saw Brazilian great Pele play with the New York Cosmos. He looked to Messi: “You may be better than Pele,” then asked the crowd, “Who’s better?”
Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas said his team has “changed the culture of football in the United States of America forever.”
“We can play with the big boys, we can play with the heavyweights. Our league can be one of the top leagues in the world,” Mas said. “And it is this ability to dream, to persevere, to have no obstacles ahead of us, that we will continue to be successful. And hopefully, Mr. President, this is not our only visit here celebrating an MLS Cup championship.”
It was the first White House visit for Messi. He was invited by the Biden administration to be presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in January 2025 but could not attend because of a scheduling conflict.
Inter Miami will remain in the area to play D.C. United on Saturday.
Lionel Messi, Inter Miami Feted By US President Donald Trump At The White House For MLS Cup Title Win
ARG superstar Lionel Messi & his Inter Miami were feted by US Prez Trump
Miami beat the Vancouver Whitecaps in Dec for the Major League Soccer title
Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, led Argentina to the World Cup title in 2022
Lionel Messi bestowed President Donald Trump with a bejeweled pink soccer ball during a White House ceremony honoring Inter Miami for winning last year’s MLS Cup.
Miami beat the Vancouver Whitecaps in December for the Major League Soccer title, and the Argentinian superstar was named the league’s MVP for the second consecutive season.
“Leo, you came in and you won, and that’s something very hard to do, very, very unusual and frankly, there’s a lot more pressure put on you than anyone would know, because you sort of expected to win, but almost nobody wins,” Trump said.
Messi, who entered the ceremony alongside Trump, joined Inter Miami in mid-2023 to great fanfare. He did not speak during the event, which turned political at times with Trump addressing the war with Iran, the situation in Venezuela, a possible future announcement regarding Cuba and even tariffs.
Addressing Messi — who famously avoids speaking out on politics — the President stuck mostly to sports.
“You could have gone anywhere in the world. You could have chosen any team in the world, and you chose to go to Miami. I don’t blame you. The weather’s extremely good. Do you go to Doral? You go to Doral and play golf?” Trump said, referencing a golf course he owns. “I just want to thank you for bringing us all on this ride, because you are hot and talented and a great person.”
Among the other Inter Miami stars in attendance were Luis Suárez, Tadeo Allende and Rodrigo De Paul. MLS Commissioner Don Garber sat next to Andrew Giuliani, head of the White House’s World Cup task force. Also attending were retired baseball star Alex Rodriguez and members of Trump’s cabinet.
Inter Miami was the first MLS team to be invited to the White House during Trump’s two terms in office.
Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, led Argentina to the World Cup title in 2022. The 38-year-old is expected to play again for Argentina this summer when the tournament is hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Football’s global showcase has been clouded by recent events, including the war with Iran and turmoil in Mexico following the death of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera in a military operation.
Iran is part of the World Cup field of 48 teams and is set to play a pair of games at SoFi Stadium in Southern California and another in Seattle during the group stage.
Trump opened the ceremony with comments about the conflict with Iran but did not mention the World Cup.
Following military action by the United States and Israel last week, Iran’s top football official, Mehdi Taj, said the country could not look to playing in the World Cup with “hope.”
“I really don’t care” if Iran participates, Trump told Politico this week. “I think Iran is a very badly defeated country. They’re running on fumes.”
It’s not clear what would happen if Iran pulled out of the World Cup. No team that has qualified for the tournament has withdrawn in the past 75 years.
The World Cup kicks off on June 11 when Mexico plays South Africa in Mexico City.
During the ceremony, Trump spoke about how he saw Brazilian great Pele play with the New York Cosmos. He looked to Messi: “You may be better than Pele,” then asked the crowd, “Who’s better?”
Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas said his team has “changed the culture of football in the United States of America forever.”
“We can play with the big boys, we can play with the heavyweights. Our league can be one of the top leagues in the world,” Mas said. “And it is this ability to dream, to persevere, to have no obstacles ahead of us, that we will continue to be successful. And hopefully, Mr. President, this is not our only visit here celebrating an MLS Cup championship.”
It was the first White House visit for Messi. He was invited by the Biden administration to be presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in January 2025 but could not attend because of a scheduling conflict.
Inter Miami will remain in the area to play D.C. United on Saturday.
Sports Advertisers Want New Ballgame With Aggressive Sponsorships
When is a two-point conversion really a touchdown?
For the brewers of Dos Equis, multiple times per season.
Since last year, Dos Equis has arranged to become part of the action during select college-football games telecast across ESPN, ABC, SEC and ACC Network getting special on-screen graphics and other elements whenever one of the teams tries to “Go for Dos” and score a two-point conversion. This year, the Heineken brand expanded its support and is expected to cover nearly two thirds of the plays broadcast this season, compared with just under half a year ago. To be sure, there are TV commercials, too.
“We’re not about just interrupting sport. We’re about being a part of it,” says Allison Payne, Heineken USA’s CMO, during a recent interview. The concept helps create a feeling of “doing the unexpected to make life a bit more interesting, and, obviously, make the game more interesting.”
Football commercials and beer go together like, well, what did we just say? But more advertisers like Dos Equis are pressing TV networks to carve out new elements from games during which they can hawk their wares. Such stuff is significantly more complicated than just running an ad and arranging for one of the announcers to bark out “this game is brought to you by….” And TV-sports outlets expect to see a significant uptick in requests for special sponsorships, particularly as sports take on new importance during the industry’s streaming wars, with games representing one of the few programming formats left that can still attract a large audience of simultaneous viewers.
Madison Avenue is pouring new dollars into sports-TV. Disney earlier this year said it sold nearly $4 billion in ad time tied to sports during the industry’s recent “upfront” sales market, when TV networks try to sell the bulk of their commercial inventory. NBCUniversal said its sports properties saw an uptick of 20% in new sponsors during the annual haggle. Amazon’s Prime Video suggested sales tied to sports “provided incremental volume growth for us” during the market.
In a different era, advertisers would use their big budgets to procure similar stuff during primetime dramas and comedies. In the streaming era, “there are fewer meaningful opportunities to do this in entertainment” programming, notes Dan Lovinger, a former head of sports and Olympics sales at NBCU who now leads Lov of the Game Advisors, a consultancy. In years past, advertisers bought sports commercials to reach large audiences. They still do, to be sure, but there appears to be some pressure building to engage more significantly with fans. “Dollars follow eyeballs, and so if the eyeballs are moving to sports, the dollars and creativity will also follow,” Lovinger says.
At Main Street Sports Group, which operates a collection of regional sports outlets known as the FanDuel Sports Network, executives have been working on what they call “trigger ads” that surface at specific sports moments, like a home run or a stolen base. “Is there an ad experience that we can do when there are like three seconds left on the shot clock, or any time that there is a three-pointer or a steal or something?” asks Jim Keller, executive vice president of advertising and sponsorship sales for the FanDuel networks, during an interview. Executives are “focused on finding a way for us to create sponsor moments that actually add to the viewers’ enjoyment of the game.”
Advertisers aren’t guaranteed to hit a marketing home run. Indeed, the live, spontaneous nature of a sports telecast means that tying ad messages to specific moments can be fraught with challenge. Rocket Cos. earlier this year ran an ad during Fox’s broadcast of Super Bowl LIX that used a version of John Denver’s “Country Roads, Take Me Home” to talk about Americans striving for home ownership. Marketing executives then tried to get the crowd watching the live game at New Orleans Caesar’s Superdome to sing along — with decidedly mixed results. When Fox came back to live broadcasting following the commercial break that contained an ad from Rocket, many fans appeared to either ignore the music or look puzzled as to why they should take part.
Fox and the NFL initially turned down the live, in-stadium singing session, believing that there would be more control around the concept if crowds were taped singing the song during pre-game coverage when the network was in commercial breaks. The advertiser insisted on trying to create a live spectacle. Once Fox cut to the commercial break that included the Rocket ad, the stadium crowd as invited to participate via use of promotional announcements, a D.J. and the facility’s various screens.
Getting viewers to associate Dos Equis with the two-point conversions requires “high-level coordination,” says Payne. Ther are traditional commercials, and football announcer Chris Fowler has been enlisted to help emphasize the sponsorship. “We have signage. We have college football team sponsorship, We have tailgate activation,” says Payne. “We are very good at bringing brand experiences to life, but it requires quite an in-depth coordination” between Heineken, Disney, ESPN and Dos Equis’ media agency, Dentsu.
Disney has become more open to similar requests, says Mike Denby, senior vice president of sales for the company. “We believe the more that we do integrations, the more that we elevate brands, it drives results,” he says. At the same time, he adds, the company can’t oversaturate the playing field with dozens of similar ideas during a single game.
Creating other bespoke ad concepts may be as hard as winning the games themselves. Sports remains “an unpredictable format,” notes Lovinger, and advertisers will want guarantees that a special appearance close to a goal, touchdown, stolen base, or foul that can’t always be given. What’s more, some leagues can be very careful about how much space they give advertisers as their games are being played. “There are leagues that are less restrictive in terms of how the broadcasters can access inventory and you’ll probably see more of it there, “says Lovinger.
Dos Equis remains undaunted. “My long-term vision is like, can you imagine whenever two-point conversion is in the cards that the whole stadium is chanting ‘Go for Dos?’ asks Payne. “That’s the Nirvana. I feel like we can get there.”
Trump backs ‘powerful caps’ on college athlete pay
WASHINGTON — President Trump wants “very powerful caps” to limit college athlete salaries so that universities won’t “go out of business.”
Trump told ESPN host Pat McAfee that he fears that “lesser” sports also are being scrapped due to the newly allowed practice of directly paying athletes, which has been allowed since July on top of name, image and likeness (NIL) sponsorships by companies and booster clubs permitted since 2021.
“It is a very serious problem because even football, when they give quarterbacks $12 million, $13 million, $14 million — I read a couple of them — and all of a sudden you’re going to see it’s going to be out of control, and even rich colleges are going to go bust,” Trump said in a Tuesday interview.
“They had the old way. They gave scholarships, and they did lots of good things. But there could be some form of payments, but… look, the NFL, and all of you know, all teams, they have caps. You don’t really have that in college sports,” the president said.
“When the guard comes along that weighs 350 pounds and he’s phenomenal, and they say, ‘That’s going to make the difference between having a great team and a lousy team’, and they give him $10 million — that’s going to start happening pretty soon — all of a sudden you’re going to have NFL-type payrolls.”
The reform allowing for direct payment of players by universities came through a court-approved settlement involving the NCAA, with an estimated initial annual cap of $20.5 million per player. Without changes, the salary cap is expected to rise to $33 million over the next decade, CBS Sports reported.
Trump, whose administration this year paused federal grants to prominent universities to force policy changes, added, “colleges don’t make that much money, even the most successful, so they’re not going to be able to do this. Bad things are going to happen unless they figure this out…
“And frankly, the college football, it’s very big. But as big as it is, if they don’t do some very powerful caps, these colleges are all going to go out of business no matter how rich they are.”
Trump floated Nick Saban, the retired longtime football coach at the University of Alabama, as a potential point person to lead a group to devise new salary caps.
“I don’t want to use any particular sport, because it’s, you know, degrading. But they are really terminating a lot of sports… you would call them lesser sports, but big sports, good sports, and sports where they have tremendous interest, they’re getting rid of them,” Trump added.
“A lot of the lesser sports are being totally terminated. You know that? It’s a shame. It was almost like a training ground for the Olympics, and a lot of those training grounds are being lost.”
Mavs honoring VP of corporate sponsorships Billy Phillips as he retires after 33 years
A wave of emotion overcame Billy Phillips as he went through a list of acknowledgements that included his Dallas Mavericks colleagues, corporate sponsorship partners and immediate family.
Phillips, the Mavericks’ longtime vice president of corporate sponsorships, was the final voice to speak on Saturday to commemorate his retirement after 33 years of tenure with the franchise. It was a celebration inside the Executive Lounge at American Airlines Center to honor one of the most respected employees in the team’s 45-year history.
“Many of you know his Dallas Mavericks legacy and what he’s done for this community, but what he’s done for the overall sports business community in North Texas is unparalleled,” said Gina Miller, the Mavericks’ new chief communications officer.
Phillips’ storied sports legacy in the Dallas-Fort Worth area didn’t start in basketball. The Long Island, N.Y., native played soccer as a goalkeeper from 1980 to 1981 for the Dallas Tornado in the North American Soccer League. He played an instrumental role with the Dallas Sidekicks, both as a player from 1984 to 1987 and manager from 1987 to 1996.
Phillips helped establish soccer in North Texas in the 1970s and 1980s, and the momentum led to Dallas being the host city for the 1994 FIFA World Cup. The quadrennial international men’s soccer tournament will return in 2026, with AT&T Stadium hosting nine matches in Arlington, including a semi-final game. FC Dallas president Dan Hunt said Phillips played a role in the Cup’s return.
Phillips joined the Mavericks in 1992 as a senior director of corporate sponsorship. He was promoted to vice president in 2018, the role he serves in currently until his final day on Dec. 23. As an athlete, he can’t help but reflect on the team’s lone championship in 2011 as a standout moment, but the people he worked with is what he’ll cherish the most.
“At the end of the day, it’s relationships,” Phillips said. “I have so many amazing relationships from people who work for the Mavericks and partners that I’ve worked with now…It’s always the people who’s the most important part of my job.”
Several influential people around the Mavericks spoke during Phillips’ retirement ceremony, including minority shareholder Mark Cuban and CEO Rick Welts. Co-interim general manager Michael Finley was also in attendance.
“This man can sell,” Cuban said. “Billy has been a rock, not just for the young salespeople, but for the whole organization. When things were up, when things were down, Billy was steady. Billy has this calming influence that he brings to anybody that he’s met, but he also can sell. What’s the rule, Billy?”
“If you’re talking to someone, you better have a check,” Phillips said.
The celebration didn’t stop during the pregame. Phillips was honored during halftime of Saturday’s game with a tribute video, which included cameos by Dirk Nowitzki and former Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle. Mavericks coach Jason Kidd began his pregame news conference with a congratulatory message for Phillips.
“I want to congratulate Billy Phillips,” Kidd said. “He’s retiring after 33 years with the Mavs. He’s a big influence in sports here in Dallas. Goalkeeper for the Dallas Sidekicks. He did everything and he’s a big reason why soccer is coming to Dallas for the Cup.”
Twitter/X: @MikeACurtis2
TKO Stock Slides despite Receiving a New Street-High Price Target
TKO Group Holdings (TKO) had a standout year in 2025, thanks to major media rights deals and a surge in sponsorships. In fact, the sports and entertainment company signed agreements to broadcast UFC and Zuffa Boxing with Paramount (PSKY) and licensed WWE content through Endeavor Group. These deals were big enough that TKO raised its outlook for the year, and the stock climbed by more than 50%, thereby making it one of the top performers in its sector.
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Importantly, analysts believe there’s more room to grow, even after this big run. For instance, BTIG analyst Tyler DiMatteo noted that 2026 looks promising for both the sports and entertainment industry and TKO specifically. While he does expect some short-term ups and downs due to the stock’s recent surge, he’s comfortable giving TKO a higher valuation. He points to strong consumer interest in live events and what many call the “experience economy” as key reasons why the company should keep performing well.
TKO is also betting on newer trends, such as prediction markets. It signed a multi-year deal with Polymarket that will apply to UFC and Zuffa Boxing in an attempt to increase fan engagement. Interestingly, that market was worth $1.4 billion in 2024 and could grow to $95.5 billion by 2035. As a result, DiMatteo gave TKO a Buy rating and raised his price target to a street high of $250 per share.
Is TKO Stock a Good Buy?
Turning to Wall Street, analysts have a Strong Buy consensus rating on TKO stock based on 14 Buys, one Hold, and zero Sells assigned in the past three months, as indicated by the graphic below. Furthermore, the average TKO price target of $225.73 per share implies 7.9% upside potential.
See more TKO analyst ratings
How shared values drove Ferrari’s first crypto partnership: Interview with BingX
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The multi-year agreement between Formula One racing team Scuderia Ferrari and crypto exchange BingX represents the Italian team’s first partnership with a crypto exchange.
For Vivien Lin, Chief Product Officer at BingX, the connection is built on performance rather than just visibility. She notes that Ferrari’s “engineering excellence and uncompromising standards” mirror the platform’s own approach, stating that the goal is to demonstrate that a crypto exchange can operate with the “same discipline, transparency and ambition” as the iconic automotive brand.
In this interview, Lin sheds light on the strategic vision behind the collaboration, the maturity of the crypto landscape and how shared values with Ferrari are influencing BingX’s global roadmap.
Cointelegraph: How is the convergence of high-performance sports and financial technology reshaping global marketing strategies?
Vivien Lin: High-performance sports attract fans who are deeply committed and loyal, much like the community we’ve built at BingX with our 40 million users. In Formula 1, this engagement is clear. Recent research shows that 94% of fans plan to follow the sport five years from now, and 86% watch at least 16 races each season.
This kind of loyalty gives us a unique chance for us to build lasting relationships, not just short-term awareness. In my experience, it’s rare to find a partnership that fits so well. I also believe that sponsorship shapes how fans experience the sport.
The same research found that about three-quarters of fans think sponsors make Formula 1 better, and one in three are more likely to buy from F1 partners. For Gen Z, that number rises to 40%. For BingX, this trend means our marketing is now more focused on values, performance and long-term relevance, not just visibility.
CT: Why are elite sporting institutions increasingly looking toward the cryptocurrency sector for strategic alliances?
VL: In our experience, elite sports organizations have always focused on progress and winning. To stay ahead, they keep evolving, adopt new technologies and look to the future. The crypto sector and BingX share this forward-thinking approach, so there is a unique purpose behind these partnerships.
Furthermore, 2026 marks a change. As the industry grows, crypto is now about infrastructure, security and global access — not just experimentation. Sports organizations see this obvious shift and want to work with partners who are leading the way. These partnerships show a shared belief that responsible innovation can create lasting value for people around the world.
CT: What does the evolving relationship between Formula 1 and digital assets signal about the maturity of the crypto industry?
VL: The growing relationship between Formula 1 and digital assets is a strong signal that the crypto industry is entering a more mature phase. One that is defined less by speculation and more by credibility, infrastructure and long-term brand building.
Both Formula 1 and crypto are built on resilience. Progress is never linear. There are moments of rapid innovation, periods of pressure and times when patience matters more than speed. After seven years in this industry, I’ve seen crypto evolve through multiple cycles, shaped by both breakthroughs and hard lessons. Formula 1 understands this reality deeply.
From BingX’s perspective, Formula 1 represents the highest standards of performance, precision and trust. It is a global sport governed by rigorous regulation and scrutiny. The fact that teams and stakeholders are increasingly selective about their partners reflects how the crypto industry itself is changing.
Partnerships today are about values, governance and the ability to perform at scale. As the industry matures, we are seeing leading crypto platforms focus on compliance, security and user protection, foundational elements that are essential for long-term adoption.
The presence of digital asset companies in Formula 1 signals that these platforms are now capable of meeting the expectations of world-class institutions and global audiences. It also reflects a move away from short-term hype toward sustainable engagement and education.
CT: How does becoming a cryptocurrency partner for Ferrari differentiate BingX from its competitors?
VL: This partnership is significant not only because of Ferrari’s global brand and history, but also because it marks their first collaboration with a cryptocurrency exchange, which we do not take lightly. For BingX, it reinforces our position as a top-of-mind brand in crypto and reflects how far we’ve come as a platform.
For example, we were the first major exchange to introduce copy trading, which helped us become recognized as a top 5 derivatives platform, and today we are the first all-in-AI crypto exchange, with a $300 million commitment to implementing AI across our platform. It shows that we are seen as a long-term partner capable of meeting the standards of one of motorsport’s most iconic teams.
CT: What specific shared values between BingX and Scuderia Ferrari form the foundation of this multi-year collaboration?
VL: At the heart of this collaboration is a shared mindset of pioneering breakthroughs and redefining what’s possible. Both BingX and Scuderia Ferrari operate in environments where precision, performance and continuous innovation matter deeply.
Ferrari’s culture of constant innovation, race after race and season after season, closely mirrors how BingX approaches product innovation and platform evolution. We also share a long-term view that goes beyond short-term wins. There is a strong mutual respect for data, technology and discipline, as well as a belief that innovation should always be purposeful.
On the product side, this philosophy translates directly into action. Just as Ferrari continuously refines performance to push limits on the track, BingX is committed to helping traders go beyond their current potential through continuous platform upgrades, BingX Academy and AI-driven innovation.
CT: How do you plan to turn this partnership into tangible benefits for the BingX trading community?
VL: For us, partnerships like this are about delivering a more premium experience for our users. We are intentional about who we align with because those relationships reflect how we build our platform and our community.
Our partnerships with globally respected teams like Chelsea Football Club and Ferrari are not coincidences. They represent excellence, discipline and a commitment to performing at the highest level.
For our trading community, this translates into elevated experiences, stronger engagement and a brand they can trust and feel proud to be part of. Whether markets are moving fast or slowing down, our focus remains on quality, reliability and long-term value. These partnerships, along with racing-inspired campaigns, race-week activations and limited-edition experiences, reinforce that we are building BingX to operate at a global, premium standard.
CT: How does aligning with the most iconic team in motorsport reinforce BingX’s commitment to security and technological excellence?
VL: Ferrari’s reputation is built on precision, reliability and performance under pressure. Partnering with a team of that caliber reinforces how we think about building BingX and our own commitment to building secure, resilient and high-performing systems.
For years, we’ve focused on creating a resilient, AI-native platform, with intelligence embedded directly into the trading experience and a long-term $300 million commitment to AI.
In crypto, trust is built through infrastructure, not promises. We treat security as a foundation, supported by proof-based protections such as a $150 million Shield Fund and 100% proof-of-reserves.
This partnership reflects confidence in our technology and governance, and it sends a clear message that innovation and security are not trade-offs. They must work together to create a platform that can perform at a global, world-class standard.
CT: How will this alliance influence BingX’s strategic roadmap and expansion plans over the next few years?
VL: This partnership builds on a foundation we’ve already established. With over 40 million users globally and a position among the top five derivatives trading platforms, BingX has reached a scale where brand trust, consistency and global relevance matter more than ever.
Our multi-year partnership with Chelsea Football Club reflects that same thinking. Whether on the pitch or in the market, we align with teams that operate at the highest level of performance.
Working with Ferrari represents the next stage of that journey. It opens new opportunities for global storytelling, deeper regional engagement and innovation across markets. More importantly, it aligns with our long-term view of crypto as part of global finance and culture, not a niche industry.
CT: What role will this partnership play in BingX’s long-term goal to redefine standards within the cryptocurrency landscape?
Partnerships like this help set a new benchmark for what crypto brands can represent. They show that it’s possible to combine innovation with discipline, and ambition with responsibility.
Our goal is to help move the industry forward by building trust, raising standards and focusing on long-term value. If crypto wants to be part of global culture, it must meet the standards of the world’s most demanding institutions. This partnership is our commitment to that future.
NCAA D1 Cabinet Approves Jersey Patch Sponsorships in College Sports
If you felt that the influx of NIL and other cash influences had already thoroughly corrupted college sports, you may want to brace yourself.
The NCAA Division I Cabinet voted to approve jersey patch sponsorships in college sports. The new ruling will take effect on August 1, allowing patches to be placed on uniforms just in time for the start of the 2026 college football season.
“College sports are in an exciting new era of increased financial benefits for student-athletes, and the Cabinet’s vote today reflects the ongoing commitment of Division I members to drive additional revenues and fully fund those benefits,” said Illinois Athletics Director and D-I Cabinet chair, Josh Whitman, in a statement.
“This also continues the NCAA’s efforts to expand flexibility in areas of NCAA rules, thereby allowing schools and conferences to set standards that reflect their values and serve their unique needs. This important policy change is another step forward in advancing that philosophy and providing members with increased flexibility.”
As On3 reports, “Under the new legislation, schools will be able to place up to two additional commercial logos on uniforms and one additional logo on equipment during both the preseason and postseason. They can also add another logo on uniforms and apparel during conference championships.
“Patches are limited to a maximum of 4 square inches per logo, according to the NCAA. The legislation is in effect for non-NCAA championship competition.”
In anticipation of the rule’s passing, several schools, most notably LSU and UNLV, have already inked sponsorship deals.
The move will undoubtedly accelerate the commercialization of the game-day experience. In the last two years, fans in the stands and those watching at home have seen the emergence of company logos on the field and on the court, resulting from the House v. NCAA settlement approval.
Adding sponsorship patches to jerseys will create yet another revenue stream for college athletics, likely adding tens of millions of dollars annually.
Watch Brands Increasingly Turn to Sports for Spark
Could sports be the tonic that revives the luxury watch market?
Over the past few months, Swiss watch brands have lined up to announce multimillion-dollar deals with elite professional sports leagues and athletes, hoping to leverage their star power and the emotions of sports fandom to fire up a cooling market.
Last week, Breitling became the latest high-end brand to hitch its wagon to Formula 1, signing a deal with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1 Team, adding to a deal it announced in August to be the official timepiece partner of the National Football League (N.F.L.).
In November, Norqain became what it called the Official Luxury Sports Watch of the National Hockey League (N.H.L.), and in January Frederique Constant introduced its first sports sponsorship, connecting with the nascent Pro Padel League, in which athletes compete in padel, a game often described as a cross between squash and tennis.
Brands such as Rolex, Omega and TAG Heuer have built their profiles on ties with sports, but in today’s saturated market, can sports sponsorships really help brands achieve their goals?
Fears of foreign influence spark bipartisan crackdown on college sports funding
Student-athletes are increasingly exploring name, image and likeness contracts to benefit from their emerging stardoms. But lawmakers want to make sure those deals don’t provide loopholes for foreign adversaries to exert their influence in the United States.
Utah Rep. Blake Moore introduced the No Foreign NIL Funds Act on Tuesday that would implement a number of restrictions banning foreign governments and adversarial entities from investing in U.S. college sports. The bill would mostly apply to NIL contracts, but it would also extend to sponsorships, media rights deals, hosting amateur athletic conferences, and other joint ventures.
“College sports are woven into American campus life, local communities, and family traditions. But allowing foreign entities to funnel money and sponsorships into college athletics through NIL deals risks undermining the integrity of the game and exposing universities to unintended foreign influence or national security concerns,” Moore, a former student-athlete himself, said in a statement. “NIL should be used to support college athletes, not as a backdoor for moving foreign money into American institutions.”
Since NIL contracts have been accepted in recent years, lawmakers have struggled to adopt comprehensive laws regulating those deals. As a result, there are no federal restrictions banning foreign governments from funding those contracts so long as the agreements are cleared through a list of requirements settled in the House vs. NCAA lawsuit in 2024.
That settlement now allows each school to pay its athletes up to $20.5 million per year, which works out to about 22% of the average athletic department revenue at Power Four schools.
However, many of the organizations that coordinate NIL contracts operate as limited liability companies, or LLCs, that do not require donor lists to be made public. That has raised national security concerns among some lawmakers who said adversarial countries could quietly pour money into a university’s sports program and try to build political influence or gain leverage.
The bill would go beyond those NIL contracts to also block foreign countries from investing in collegiate athletic streams, and it would prohibit entering into contracts with individual universities, media rights distributors, bowl games or postseason football organizations.
Bill would have exceptions for foreign NIL donations
The legislation would carve out some exceptions to allow members of NATO, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland to still participate in those contracts.
Moore pointed to recent incidents in which college football coaches have engaged in foreign trips for lobbying or fundraising as well as some athletic conferences who are finalizing plans to organize tournaments in foreign countries.
The bill has garnered the support of bipartisan lawmakers, and even has the backing of Utah State University’s athletic director, who said it’s crucial “to create a safe and sustainable future.”
“Utah State Athletics firmly supports our student-athletes and their ability to seek name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities through the appropriate channels,” USU athletic director Cameron Walker said. “However, the origin of these sources is critical for NIL to function effectively and operate in the best interest of our university, state, and student-athletes. We are thankful for Congressman Moore’s work in this area and support his efforts to create a safe and sustainable future.”
Arkansas Razorback athletics announces its jersey sponsor
Recently, the Tyson Foods logo has shown up on the field at Razorback Stadium.
Now, the iconic food brand will be on the Razorback uniforms for all varsity sports beginning in 2026-27. Under the new multi-year agreement, Tyson Foods will also serve as the official protein of the Arkansas Razorbacks.
Expect to see the Tyson Foods brand on things such as backdrops for press conferences, stadium branding with on field/court placements.
“This historic sponsorship is transformative for Razorback Athletics. For decades, Tyson Foods has been more than a corporate partner—they are an integral part of the Arkansas story,
Report: WNBA players’ union sends offer to league with revenue sharing, housing concessions
NEW YORK — The WNBA players’ union sent a counterproposal to the league Friday night for a new collective bargaining agreement that included some concessions on revenue sharing and housing — two key areas on which the sides differ — according to a person familiar with the negotiations.
The person spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the negotiations.
The union’s proposal came a week after it received one from the league. The WNBA told the union Monday during a virtual negotiating session that it needs to get a deal in place by March 10 to start the season on time, another person familiar with the discussions told the AP. That person spoke on condition of anonymity Monday because of the sensitive nature of the negotiations.
In the new proposal, the union is asking for 26% of the gross revenue — revenue before expenses — with the salary cap for teams around $9.5 million in the first year. That number is unchanged from the union’s previous offer. The revenue sharing is down from 27.5% from the union’s proposal from 10 days ago.
The WNBA had offered more than 70% of net revenue in its last proposal. That would be their take of the profits after expenses are paid. Those expenses would include upgraded facilities, charter flights, five-star hotels, medical services, security and arenas.
The union also tweaked its housing offer. The union is still asking teams to provide housing for all players in the first few years of the deal, but in the latter part of the CBA teams wouldn’t have to provide housing for players making at least 75% of the maximum salary.
The league had offered that its teams would pay for all housing this season. Then franchises would pay for housing for players on minimum salary contracts as well as rookies in their first season, the person said.
They’d also pay for the housing of the two developmental players that teams would be allowed to have.
Front Office Sports was the first to report the counterproposal.
If a labor deal is agreed to by March 10, it probably would be signed by the end of the month. Under that timeline, the expansion draft for new franchises in Portland and Toronto would be held sometime between April 1-6, according to a timetable obtained by the AP.
Free agent qualifying offers, including franchise player tags, would be sent out April 7-8. Teams would then have three days to negotiate with the more than 80% of players who are free agents. The signing period would take place from April 12-18.
Training camps would open the next day and the season would be able to start on May 8.
The league and the players have been unable to reach a new collective bargaining agreement since the union opted out of the previous deal, which expired last year.
Hombre desaparecido desde San Valentín es rescatado de arenas movedizas
Andrew Giddens estuvo varios días sumergido hasta los hombros en una zona de extracción de arena en el condado de Putnam; fue trasladado en estado crítico a un hospital de trauma.
ORLANDO, Florida.- Un hombre reportado como desaparecido desde el 14 de febrero fue rescatado esta semana tras ser encontrado atrapado hasta los hombros en una zona de lodo tipo “arenas movedizas” en el noreste del estado, informaron autoridades.
Se trata de Andrew Giddens, de 36 años y residente de Jacksonville, quien había sido visto por última vez el Día de San Valentín. Familiares alertaron a las autoridades después de no tener noticias suyas y expresar preocupación por su estado emocional tras una ruptura reciente.
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De acuerdo con la Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, el vehículo de Giddens fue localizado el 23 de febrero cerca de una propiedad industrial perteneciente a Vulcan Materials Company, en el condado de Putnam. Un agente que lo había contactado en un incidente previo de allanamiento en 2023 reconoció el automóvil y solicitó revisar el área.
Fue durante esa inspección que equipos de emergencia lo encontraron en una zona de extracción de arena, parcialmente oculto entre vegetación y sumergido en lodo inestable.
Notas Relacionadas
Rescate complejo en terreno inestable
Autoridades detallaron que el hombre permaneció varios días atrapado sin acceso a comida ni agua. Además, las bajas temperaturas registradas en la zona durante las noches complicaron aún más su condición física.
El operativo de rescate estuvo a cargo del cuerpo de Rescate de Incendios del Condado Putnam, con apoyo de departamentos de bomberos de jurisdicciones cercanas. Los rescatistas utilizaron escaleras, cuerdas y tablas para distribuir el peso sobre el terreno inestable y evitar que tanto la víctima como el personal de emergencia quedaran completamente sumergidos.
Las labores se extendieron por aproximadamente dos a tres horas debido a la fragilidad del terreno y al riesgo de colapso del lodo. Finalmente, Giddens fue liberado alrededor de las 8:30 p.m., según informaron las autoridades.
Tras ser extraído, fue trasladado en helicóptero a un centro de trauma regional en estado crítico, presentando signos de deshidratación severa y agotamiento extremo por la prolongada exposición a las condiciones ambientales.
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La oficina del sheriff indicó que, dadas las circunstancias y su condición médica, no se contemplan cargos por allanamiento relacionados con su presencia en la propiedad industrial.
Las autoridades no han ofrecido detalles adicionales sobre cómo llegó exactamente al área ni sobre su estado de salud actualizado, pero confirmaron que la investigación del caso continúa.
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On the road with the Sabres this season
Buffalo News reporter Rachel Lenzi heads to the Buffalo Sabres morning skate at TD Garden in Boston on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025.
The Buffall Sabres lost 6-3 Nov. 8 at Carolina. Here’s a look at the pregame scene at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C.
The Montreal Canadiens pay tribute to their legends outside the Bell Centre in Montreal on Monday, Oct. 20, 2025.
Toronto’s fans came to Buffalo in force, on a night when the Maple Leafs played the Sabres and the Blue Jays faced the Los Angeles Dodgers in …
The Toronto Maple Leafs take the ice at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto before a game against the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025
The Buffalo Sabres practiced Nov. 11 at the Utah Mammoth’s new headquarters and training facility in Sandy, Utah.
The Buffalo Sabres played the Utah Mammoth at the Delta Center on Nov. 12 in Salt Lake City.
The Buffalo Sabres continued a four-game road trip Thursday against the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena in Denver.
The pregame scene at Pittsburgh’s PPG Paints Arena
A video projection system gives the backdrop to the warmup sessions for the Sabres and Winnipeg Jets in Canada Life Centre on Dec. 5, 2025.
The Calgary Flames held their
Gilbert Arenas Goes Off on USC Over Chad Baker
There was a time not long ago when USC had designs on playing in the NCAA men’s tournament for the first time since joining the Big Ten.
Now, the Trojans are just hoping to keep the band together for their final two regular season games. On Sunday, to the surprise of the college hoops world, USC guard Chad Baker-Mazara—the Trojans’ leading scorer—departed the program.
Throwing gasoline on a five-alarm fire in Exposition Park, ex-Arizona and NBA star Gilbert Arenas—the father of current USC guard Alijah Arenas—took to social media Sunday night to profanely demand Baker-Mazara and the Trojans reconcile their differences.
“This is what we’re doing? Our best player? Mr. ‘I Get Buckets?’ Every night. He brings it every night. Guaranteed 18, 20 every night,” Gilbert said. “I don’t know who he cussed out. But get over it! He’s right!”
Baker-Mazara, 26, is on his fourth Division I school since beginning his college basketball journey back in 2021. He spent 2021 with Duquesne, 2022 with San Diego State (where he was named the Mountain West’s Sixth Man of the Year), 2023 in the junior college ranks, and 2024 to 2025 with Auburn.
Mirroring the Santo Domingo native’s career, the Trojans have endured a rollercoaster 2026 season. USC started the season 8-0 and cracked the AP Poll twice in December, but lost its fifth consecutive game to No. 12 Nebraska Saturday at an inopportune time. During the Trojans’ game against the Cornhuskers, Baker-Mazara appeared to exit the team’s bench and sit near fans.
“When you the best player on the team, whatever you say, you right,” Gilbert said. “Give him the ball, get the f— out the way. That’s the offense. Damn. We supposed to be playing in the tournament, man. Now we gotta watch this junior varsity-ass team.”
USC has two games left before the Big Ten tournament: a trip to Washington on Wednesday and a home game against rival UCLA on Saturday.
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Gilbert Arenas blasts USC over Chad Baker-Mazara departure
Gilbert Arenas isn’t having it.
The former NBA All-Star and father of USC’s top remaining basketball player was livid over the Trojans’ announcement of the departure of guard Chad Baker-Mazara on Sunday.
“This is what we doing? Mr. I Get Buckets?” Arenas, the father of freshman guard Alijah Arenas, said while wearing a USC jersey in a video posted on X. “Every night, he brings it every night – guaranteed 18, 20 [points] every night.”
Gilbert Arenas later alluded to possible problems that precipitated Baker-Mazara’s departure, depriving the team of its top two scorers after guard Rodney Rice was lost to a shoulder injury in November after only six games.
A dynamic scorer who averaged 18.5 points this season, Baker-Mazara erupted for 25 points and made five 3-pointers during the Trojans’ loss to rival UCLA last week.
“I don’t know who he cussed out,” Gilbert Arenas continued. “But get over it! He’s right! When you the best player on the team, you right! … Give him the ball, get the f— out of the way! That’s the offense! Damn! We’re supposed to be playing in the tournament, man. Now we’ve got to watch this junior varsity-ass team playing by them goddamn selves!”
Baker-Mazara suffered an apparent leg injury a few minutes into the second half on Saturday after chasing down Nebraska’s Pryce Sandfort in transition to block his shot.
After falling hard along the baseline and briefly leaving the court, Baker-Mazara returned to sit near Rice alongside fans in courtside seats on the baseline.
USC coach Eric Musselman downplayed Baker-Mazara’s sitting near fans afterward, saying, “I’m pretty sure he’s been sitting there all year. … I think it’s just lack of number of seats” on the team bench.
Musselman did not provide an update on the nature or severity of Baker-Mazara’s injury. A day later, the Trojans’ top remaining scorer was gone.
The absences of Rice and Baker-Mazara will take their combined averages of 38.8 points, 8.8 assists and 7.5 rebounds off the board for a team trying to fight its way into the NCAA tournament after having lost five straight games. USC will presumably lean heavily on freshman Alijah Arenas and forward Ezra Ausar to provide offense the rest of the season.
The Trojans (18-11 overall, 7-11 Big Ten) face Washington in Seattle on Wednesday before returning home to play UCLA on Saturday at the Galen Center in their final regular-season game.
USC represented Baker-Mazara’s fifth college stop after the 26-year-old previously played at Auburn, Northwest Florida State College, San Diego State and Duquesne. His next stop will presumably come in the pros.
Gilbert Arenas is not happy with USC basketball
Gilbert Arenas is not happy with USC’s basketball program, which could call his son’s future into question.
Arenas was sharply critical of the Trojans over the departure of guard Chad Baker-Mazara over the weekend. In a social media post, he suggested the Trojans should ask Baker-Mazara to come back, and referenced recent rumors of discord between Baker-Mazara and the program as something that people needed to “get over.”
“Right before the tournament, this is what we doing? Our best player? Mr. I Get Buckets? He brings it every night. Guaranteed 18, 20 every night,” Arenas said. “I don’t know who he cussed out, but get over it. He’s right. When you’re the best player on the team, you’re right. If he says them n—as suck, he’s right. We’re watching the game. Give him the ball and get the f— out the way.”
Arenas’ son Alijah is a top recruit and an important part of USC’s team. Since making a belated season debut following an injury, Alijah Arenas is averaging 13.9 points per game, and may even see his role expand with Baker-Mazara dismissed from the team.
Still, it’s fair to question Arenas’ future with the program if his father is this unhappy with the Trojans. Alijah could look to transfer or even try to turn pro, though he himself has not weighed in on any of this yet.
Baker-Mazara had been averaging 18.5 points per game before leaving the program and was the Trojans’ leading scorer.
USC men travel uncertain path minus Chad Baker-Mazara
One more road game, one less offensive piece.
When the USC men’s basketball team takes the court against Washington in its second-to-last game of the Big Ten Conference regular season, it will do so without its leading scorer.
The Trojans announced Sunday afternoon that Chad Baker-Mazara is no longer with the team after an up-and-down season with the 6-foot-7 graduate student from the Dominican Republic.
There was no reason given for his departure, and the press release appeared carefully worded as if not meaning to place blame on either party.
“Chad Baker-Mazara is no longer a member of the USC Men’s Basketball program, the team announced Sunday,” was the only information given.
The Southern California New Group has sent requests for comments to Baker-Mazara and his management, but neither had responded as of Monday.
Baker-Mazara was scoring 18.5 points per game for USC and there were 11 games in which he had scored 20 or more points this season. He burst onto the scene this season with his non-stop energy and sharp shooting, though he missed multiple practices early in the season due to “neck pain.”
Head coach Eric Musselman also told reporters on a Zoom call in late October that Baker-Mazara sometimes took freedom within game plans.
“He has his own defensive scheme in his mind,” Musselman said. “I don’t know if he necessarily always follows the game plan or the game scheme that I’ve put out, but he’s got this knack to create loose balls and steals and fly around and he confuses me and he also confuses the offense on the other team.”
Still, Baker-Mazara’s talent was enough to earn him his second straight Maui Invitational MVP honors in November, and there were some tender moments with the team as well.
Baker-Mazara brought his teammates water in between drills at practice, and USC held a confetti-filled, post-practice ring ceremony in September when he received his Final Four ring from an NCAA Tournament run with Auburn last season.
“This is motivation. We’ve got to get ours now,” Baker-Mazara told his teammates while holding the ring.
@haleymsawyer
The USC men’s basketball team honored Chad Baker-Mazara’s Final Four run with Auburn last season with a ring ceremony at the end of practice on Tuesday. #usc #auburn #collegebasketball #teammates #finalfour
♬ original sound – Haley Sawyer
He seemed to be getting along well with Musselman, and said that the two shared a similar competitive spirit when he spoke with reporters in mid-September.
“I’m enjoying Coach Muss because me and him got that edge, that passionate edge,” he said. “That has brought me closer with him and that, to me – I’m enjoying it a little bit more.”
But by the time the Trojans had gotten into the pressures of February, the optimism was wavering. Baker-Mazara missed three games due to a knee injury and appeared to be dealing with pain against UCLA and Nebraska – USC’s two most recent games.
He played 19 minutes in the loss to the Cornhuskers on Saturday before a hard fall kept him out of the rest of the game. He sat on the bench adjacent to the team bench – where he has sat on many occasions this season – next to injured point guard Rodney Rice and an unknown woman wearing a USC basketball jersey.
Baker-Mazara continued to walk to team huddles with a limp during timeouts but never re-entered the game. Musselman gave short answers when asked about him after the game.
“He said he couldn’t go,” he said.
USC’s reserves stepped up in his absence. Jaden Brownell came off the bench to score 10 points and added five rebounds and three blocked shots – both team-highs. Freshman Alijah Arenas scored 14 points in the first of his 10 games that he wasn’t in the starting rotation.
Arenas, who missed most of this season due to injury, also had zero turnovers after giving up the ball five times against UCLA.
“A player that reclassifies and gets thrown into the middle of Big Ten play – he’s got a lot of stuff on his plate that’s getting thrown at him in the middle of the year towards the tail end of the season.”
Arenas’ dad, former NBA All-Star and podcast host Gilbert Arenas, took to social media to share frustration and disappointment in USC for parting ways with Baker-Mazara.
“When you the best player on the team, whatever you say, you right,” Arenas said in a video posted to X. “Give him the ball, get the (heck) out the way. That’s the offense. Damn. We supposed to be playing in the tournament, man. Now we gotta watch this junior varsity … team.”
USC is on the outside looking in when it comes to the NCAA Tournament, and its chances will drop even more if it loses to a struggling Washington team on Wednesday that has dealt with injuries all year. At least eight Huskies have been injured at some point this season.
“We haven’t played very well at home,” Musselman said. “We’re a better road team, which is unique. We’ve got another road game coming up, so we’ll see how we play, but we haven’t played very good down the stretch here at all.
“We gotta get ready for Washington. I don’t know what else to say.”
USC (18-11 overall, 7-11 Big Ten) at WASHINGTON (14-15, 6-12)
When: Wednesday, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Alaska Airlines Arena, Seattle
Letters: Naming sports arenas not a hospital’s job
I agree with and applaud James L. Smith for his letter that was printed on Feb.25. I can’t imagine that the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady consider sports venue naming rights to be part of their mission to provide for the health care needs of the people they serve. In my opinion, these funds would be better spent on medical services and health care personnel.
I am a fan of OLOL, but I don’t choose to access their services because their name is on a football field. I agree that the OLOL board of trustees should reconsider its decision to compete for the naming rights to sports venues.
Washington hands USC men their 6th straight loss
SEATTLE — The USC men’s basketball team continued its late-season fade with a 19-point loss to Washington on Wednesday night.
Zoom Diallo scored a career-high 26 points, Hannes Steinbach added 22 with a career-best 24 rebounds, and Washington rolled past USC, 91-72, handing the Trojans their sixth consecutive loss and the 11th in their past 17 games.
Washington took the lead for good with 12:31 remaining. A 13-0 run that started with 4:33 to play pushed the Huskies’ lead to 85-65 with about two minutes left. Diallo scored on a dunk and Nikola Dzepina added a 3-pointer to end the surge.
The Huskies (15-15 overall, 7-12 Big Ten) swept the season series against USC, and have won three of their past five games.
Alijah Arenas had 19 points and seven rebounds and Ezra Ausar finished with 17 points and 11 rebounds for USC (18-12, 7-12), which was playing its first game since leading scorer Chad Baker-Mazara was dismissed from the program on Sunday. Jacob Cofie and Jordan Marsh added 14 points apiece.
Diallo shot 11 for 19 overall and grabbed nine rebounds. His previous career high was 24 points against Utah on Dec. 29. Steinbach surpassed his 16-rebound game against Utah on Feb. 24. He shot 9 for 12 from the field against the Trojans.
Quimari Peterson added 13 points, while former Trojan Wesley Yates III scored 11 for the Huskies, who outscored the Trojans by 21 points over the final 13-plus minutes.
Washington shot 48.1% from the field overall but just 7 for 30 from 3-point range. The Huskies held a 46-37 rebounding edge.
“I thought the zone was good from a 3-point percentage to deal with Washington,” USC coach Eric Musselman said. “They went 7 for 30. I thought the zone forced them to take more threes than they usually do.”
The Trojans shot just 37.5% overall and 4 for 19 from behind the arc.
The Huskies led for only 48 seconds in the first half, but a 3-pointer by Peterson and a driving layup by Yates tied the score at 52-all with 13:18 left in the second.
The Trojans went back ahead on a basket by Arenas seven seconds later before Washington began its crushing run.
It began with 10 consecutive points. Diallo scored the next six and Yates drove for a layup. Diallo then hit a jumper to give the Huskies an eight-point lead with 9:35 to play.
USC cut that deficit in half before Steinbach converted a three-point play to give Washington a 67-60 lead with 7:21 left.
A short time later, Peterson buried a corner 3-pointer and Steinbach followed his own miss to push the lead to 11 with 6:07 remaining.
The Trojans were later within seven before Washington’s Courtland Muldrew converted two three-point plays during a 13-0 burst. The Huskies increased their lead to 17 on Diallo’s dunk with 2:54 left and Nikola Dzepina added a 3-pointer 38 seconds later to make it 85-65.
USC will close its regular season on Saturday night with a home game against UCLA before preparing for next week’s Big Ten Tournament.
“We have to put 40 minutes together,” Musselman said. “We can’t play 20 minutes or 24 minutes, and certainly the second half was not anything we needed from a scoring standpoint or defensively.”
NOTES
Arenas scored 13 points in the first half as the Trojans held a 43-40 lead at the break. … Steinbach set a Big Ten freshman record with 19 double-doubles, surpassing the mark set by former Ohio State standout Jared Sullinger (2010-11). Steinbach reached the milestone double-double record with 15 points and 13 rebounds in the first half.
UP NEXT
USC hosts UCLA in a regular-season finale on Saturday at 6 p.m.
Anchorage ice hockey arenas audit finds major contract irregularities and over $500K owed to city
A recent audit uncovered significant contract violations amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars owed to the Municipality of Anchorage.
“This level of noncompliance is unusual and is going to precipitate a meaningful response from us,” said Bill Falsey, chief administrative officer for the municipality, during an interview this week.
At issue are three city-owned facilities and the private company contracted to manage them a few years ago. Beginning in 2022 and 2023, O’Malley Ice and Sports Center took over operations at the Ben Boeke, Dempsey Anderson and George M. Sullivan arenas. All three facilities have ice rinks and are pillars of Anchorage’s ice hockey community. Returning them to normal use was a priority for the Bronson administration after several tumultuous years of pandemic closures, financial precarity and, in the case of the Sullivan, prolonged use as a large homeless shelter.
Beginning in 2025, however, members of Mayor Suzanne LaFrance’s administration became aware of major financial problems with how O’Malley was executing its contract. Falsey told a group of Anchorage Assembly members during a work session last week that those initial concerns culminated in an extensive report from the municipality’s Office of Internal Audit, which was published in February.
The head of O’Malley, Steve Agni, said the company has had to spend huge sums of money handling repairs at the aging facilities while keeping them open and available to user groups. But according to the audit, they did so without following basic financial protocols, overpaying themselves in the process and misusing taxpayer subsidies.
Several Anchorage Assembly members at the Feb. 27 meeting appeared genuinely surprised by the degree to which O’Malley is alleged to have ignored contract terms, amounting to potential mismanagement “in excess of half a million” taxpayer dollars, Falsey told them.
“That is a lot of public money going out the door in a way that it was certainly not intended,” Assembly member Zac Johnson, who represents South Anchorage, said during the meeting.
Johnson asked the administration whether there was any chance of recovering those funds. Falsey said it’s too early to know, given the range of outstanding variables and questions.
In light of the ongoing disagreements with O’Malley and the audit findings, Falsey said the municipality issued a notice of default in February, and this month put out a new request for proposals to firms that may have plans for how to run the arenas.
A contract with ‘strange peculiarities’
The contract between the city and O’Malley was criticized from the start, in part because it broke with several norms in the municipal procurement process that Falsey at one point called “strange peculiarities.”
For one thing, in July 2023 it was signed by Mayor Dave Bronson himself, a formality in officiating public contracts that’s usually handled by the purchasing director.
The deal did not go before the Assembly or its typical public process for reviewing and approving multimillion-dollar lease agreements with contractors. Months later, in November 2023, the Assembly passed a measure that changed official procurement rules because members believed the Bronson administration had circumvented those requirements in its contract with O’Malley. According to a memorandum filed with that resolution, the sponsors said part of the reason the code revisions were merited was because of how the Bronson administration had handled the arenas arrangement with O’Malley.
“This already-executed transaction continues to roll forward in effect and without the required Assembly approval or public process,” wrote Assembly Chair Christopher Constant and then-Vice Chair Meg Zaletel in the memorandum.
February’s audit concluded that however fair or unfair the initial contract was, many of its most important terms have not been followed in the intervening years.
“Alterations on financial statements without justification raise questions on the reliability and integrity of the Contractor’s financial reporting, and the actual financial standing of the facility is unclear,” wrote auditor Dalton Benson.
Among the significant findings in the report:
• O’Malley “has not submitted audited financials for Boeke and Dempsey since the start of the original contract in August 2022 and has has not submitted audited financials for Sullivan since it was added in the revised contract in July 2023.”
• The company appears to have overcompensated itself by retaining a share of revenues that were supposed to be sent to the municipality: “Overall, we estimate the Contractor overpaid themselves for Boeke and Dempsey incentives by $164,112. We were not able to accurately determine Sullivan incentives since they had not always collected or separated ticket surcharge revenues.”
• The auditors found differing figures in O’Malley’s internal accounting system than what was reported to the municipality.
• Instead of retaining revenues in a “capital reserve account” to pay for repairs, O’Malley requested of the city “$217,418 in operating fund expenditures that outlined various major and minor repairs, renovations, and purchases for Sullivan completed in 2024.” The majority of that repair work, auditors concluded, should have been paid out of the reserve fund.
• O’Malley retained money from the municipality that was supposed to pay for maintenance, according to the audit findings. According to the audit, “Contractor kept the facility maintenance subsidies as an allowance towards their own repairs of the facilities. As of August 31, 2025, the Contractor currently owes the Municipality $360,000 in unpaid maintenance and repair subsidies for the three contracted years.”
• Under the terms of the contract, O’Malley was supposed to begin paying for utilities at Sullivan Arena in August 2025. But the company “has refused to accept the transfer of the utilities into their name, and as of November 30, 2025 the Municipality has incurred $127,445 in Sullivan utility costs that should have been paid from operating revenue by the Contractor,” according to the audit.
Falsey said the other novelty in the contract was that it was signed without the municipality’s purchasing department ever receiving a performance bond, a chunk of money the city would retain if a contractor failed to deliver on its side of the deal —something it still doesn’t have from O’Malley. Typically, Falsey said, the purchasing department does not sign a contract if it doesn’t have the performance bond in hand.
“I don’t know what that was about,” Falsey said. “And nobody here knows why.”
‘Private-sector approach to problems’
It was never going to be easy to make Sullivan Arena profitable coming out of the COVID era and its tenure as a low-barrier shelter for hundreds of people a night.
“We knew it was not going to be a moneymaker,” said Agni, head of O’Malley Ice and Sports Center and former co-owner of the Alaska Aces, as he answered questions during the Assembly’s work session. “We did not know the extent of the deferred maintenance.”
Agni told members that the company’s main priority was bringing Sullivan Arena back online, and keeping it, as well as the other two ice arenas, available to the community of regular users. But the structure was severely damaged and in need of repairs both big and small.
“We have not missed an operating day in those buildings despite the need to always complete exigent repairs,” Agni said. “I believe that O’Malley performed its fundamental duties.”
He defended the company’s record against some of the audit’s more critical findings, pointing out that the investigation’s scope is confined to analyzing the narrow parameters of the contracts’ terms, without taking the full context of management considerations into account.
“There’s a lot of things that were either missed in the municipal files or, we believe, mischaracterized,” Agni said in an interview this week.
He noted that there were repeated instances where major systems at the aging ice rinks were in trouble, and rather than going through the protracted steps of getting city employees to come fix them, the company quickly stepped in and spent the money to get it done as soon as they could.
“We took a private-sector approach to problems,” Agni said. “We’d hear from municipal Maintenance and Operations that they didn’t have people available or people qualified. So we were confronted with shutting buildings down or not achieving the opening of the Sullivan.”
Agni said he and his company had managed the facilities in good faith and opened their records to auditors, but felt that relatively benign discrepancies were now being wielded as “a cudgel” against the company.
“Nobody’s hiding anything,” he said.
As for refusing to pay for utilities, he said, it just doesn’t pencil out. After more than a year of facilitating events, Agni said, the company realized that passing additional utility costs over to customers like the Anchorage Wolverines or UAA ice hockey team would make things unaffordable for patrons.
“They would have to double and triple their ticket prices,” Agni said.
Both O’Malley and the municipality are asking whether the Sullivan can operate without a generous public subsidy. Included in that request was the option to propose an operating subsidy to ensure financial stability.
Even before the pandemic and mass shelter era, city officials were alarmed by just how big a money pit the arena was becoming. The last profitable year was 2015, right around the time the Alaska Airlines Center began siphoning clients and just before the Alaska Aces hockey franchise left. In 2016, the Sullivan ran a deficit of $588,999, according to the audit.
Agni said O’Malley intends to bid on this new RFP. Both the Boeke and Dempsey Anderson facilities are turning a profit, he said, though Sullivan Arena is a different animal.
Vertigo Sidelines Alex Bowman, Forcing Him Out of Sunday’s Phoenix NASCAR Race
AVONDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Hendrick Motorsports driver Alex Bowman will miss the NASCAR race Sunday at Phoenix Raceway after he was diagnosed with vertigo.
Bowman was too ill to continue racing last Sunday at Circuit of the Americas in Texas and was replaced mid-race by Myatt Snider, who had been working in the pits for Fox Sports at the time of the driver change.
Anthony Alfredo will drive the No. 48 Chevrolet for Bowman this weekend at Phoenix. Alfredo has 210 NASCAR national series starts, including 43 at the Cup level. He is the simulator test driver for Hendrick Motorsports and Chevrolet.
Bowman began experiencing symptoms Sunday in Texas and got out of the car on the 71st lap. The 32-year-old Arizona native underwent two days of medical evaluation this week and drove laps Thursday in a streetcar at the Ten Tenths Motor Club road course in Concord, North Carolina, before he was ruled out of competition.
“Alex has worked very hard over the last several days,” said Jeff Andrews, president of Hendrick Motorsports. “We’re encouraged by the progress he’s making, but we have to prioritize his health above all else. It’s obviously frustrating for him because he’s a competitor and wants to be in the race car, especially at his home track. We’ll continue to support Alex and look forward to his return as soon as he’s medically cleared.”
Bowman is in a contract year with Hendrick, which said it will request a medical waiver so he remains eligible for the NASCAR Cup Series championship.
Bowman has eight career wins in 364 career Cup Series starts. He has been driving for Hendrick full-time since the 2018 season and made the playoffs in all but one season.
He missed five races in 2022 with a concussion and missed three races the next season with a broken back. Bowman finished a career-best sixth in the Cup standings in 2020.
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Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Vertigo sidelines Alex Bowman, forcing him out of Sunday’s Phoenix NASCAR race
AVONDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Hendrick Motorsports driver Alex Bowman will miss the NASCAR race Sunday at Phoenix Raceway after he was diagnosed with vertigo.
Bowman was too ill to continue racing last Sunday at Circuit of the Americas in Texas and was replaced mid-race by Myatt Snider, who had been working in the pits for Fox Sports at the time of the driver change.
Anthony Alfredo will drive the No. 48 Chevrolet for Bowman this weekend at Phoenix. Alfredo has 210 NASCAR national series starts, including 43 at the Cup level. He is the simulator test driver for Hendrick Motorsports and Chevrolet.
Bowman began experiencing symptoms Sunday in Texas and got out of the car on the 71st lap. The 32-year-old Arizona native underwent two days of medical evaluation this week and drove laps Thursday in a streetcar at the Ten Tenths Motor Club road course in Concord, North Carolina, before he was ruled out of competition.
“Alex has worked very hard over the last several days,” said Jeff Andrews, president of Hendrick Motorsports. “We’re encouraged by the progress he’s making, but we have to prioritize his health above all else. It’s obviously frustrating for him because he’s a competitor and wants to be in the race car, especially at his home track. We’ll continue to support Alex and look forward to his return as soon as he’s medically cleared.”
Bowman is in a contract year with Hendrick, which said it will request a medical waiver so he remains eligible for the NASCAR Cup Series championship.
Bowman has eight career wins in 364 career Cup Series starts. He has been driving for Hendrick full-time since the 2018 season and made the playoffs in all but one season.
He missed five races in 2022 with a concussion and missed three races the next season with a broken back. Bowman finished a career-best sixth in the Cup standings in 2020.
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AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing
Copyright © 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.
Vertigo sidelines Alex Bowman, forcing him out of Sunday’s Phoenix NASCAR race
AVONDALE, Ariz. — Hendrick Motorsports driver Alex Bowman will miss the NASCAR race Sunday at Phoenix Raceway after he was diagnosed with vertigo.
Bowman was too ill to continue racing last Sunday at Circuit of the Americas in Texas and was replaced mid-race by Myatt Snider, who had been working in the pits for Fox Sports at the time of the driver change.
Anthony Alfredo will drive the No. 48 Chevrolet for Bowman this weekend at Phoenix. Alfredo has 210 NASCAR national series starts, including 43 at the Cup level. He is the simulator test driver for Hendrick Motorsports and Chevrolet.
Bowman began experiencing symptoms Sunday in Texas and got out of the car on the 71st lap. The 32-year-old Arizona native underwent two days of medical evaluation this week and drove laps Thursday in a streetcar at the Ten Tenths Motor Club road course in Concord, North Carolina, before he was ruled out of competition.
“Alex has worked very hard over the last several days,” said Jeff Andrews, president of Hendrick Motorsports. “We’re encouraged by the progress he’s making, but we have to prioritize his health above all else. It’s obviously frustrating for him because he’s a competitor and wants to be in the race car, especially at his home track. We’ll continue to support Alex and look forward to his return as soon as he’s medically cleared.”
Bowman is in a contract year with Hendrick, which said it will request a medical waiver so he remains eligible for the NASCAR Cup Series championship.
Bowman has eight career wins in 364 career Cup Series starts. He has been driving for Hendrick full-time since the 2018 season and made the playoffs in all but one season.
He missed five races in 2022 with a concussion and missed three races the next season with a broken back. Bowman finished a career-best sixth in the Cup standings in 2020.
Alex Bowman Will Not Race in NASCAR Cup Event at Phoenix
Alex Bowman won’t get the chance to compete at his home track of Phoenix in the NASCAR Cup Series this Sunday. The Tucson, Arizona native was diagnosed with vertigo, forcing him out of the No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet for the 312-lap race.
The news came from Hendrick Motorsports on Thursday. With Bowman’s absence, Anthony Alfredo will be the replacement driver in the No. 48 machine this Sunday.
Alex Bowman out at Phoenix due to vertigo
In a press release from Hendrick Motorsports, Bowman was said to have started experiencing symptoms of vertigo in last Sunday’s Cup race at Circuit of The Americas.
The 32-year-old exited the race on lap 71 of 95 due to his poor condition, while Myatt Snider filled in for the remainder of the race in the No. 48 car.
Jeff Andrews, president of Hendrick Motorsports, said in the release that Bowman has worked hard to be ready for Phoenix on Sunday. Although they were pleased by Bowman’s progress, they want to prioritize their driver’s health.
“It’s obviously frustrating for him because he’s a competitor and wants to be in the race car, especially at his home track. We’ll continue to support Alex and look forward to his return as soon as he’s medically cleared,” Andrews said.
The statement added that HMS will request a medical waiver for Bowman in order to stay eligible for the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series championship.
The absence from Phoenix comes at a bad time for Bowman. After three races in the 2026 campaign, the eight-time Cup Series winner finds himself 36th in the points standings. Bowman failed to finish in the top 20 in all three races so far.
Unfortunately, it’s not the first time Bowman has been sidelined in his time driving the No. 48 car. He missed five races in 2022 after suffering a concussion sustained in a crash at the Texas Motor Speedway in September of that year.
In April 2023, Bowman suffered a fractured vertebra in his back from a sprint car crash. The injury forced him to sit out for three points-paying NASCAR Cup races in 2023.
Anthony Alfredo on replacing Alex Bowman: ‘I hate it for Alex’
Anthony Alfredo will be the fill-in driver for Alex Bowman this Sunday at Phoenix. However, it’s not a position the 26-year-old wants to be in, as he said in a statement.
“First and foremost, I hate it for Alex. No race car driver wants to be in the position where they have to give up their seat for a weekend to someone else. His health is definitely the most important thing, and I hope he gets back to the track soon,” Alfredo said.
Despite the circumstances, Alfredo looks forward to working with crew chief Blake Harris and the No. 48 team. The Connecticut native said they’ll prioritize having a quality race while looking towards the future.
“I’m fortunate to have the opportunity to work with Blake and the No. 48 team for this race. It’s a group I’m already familiar with due to my relationship with Hendrick Motorsports and Chevrolet. The goal is to have a solid weekend at Phoenix and help get the team some good notes for future races,” Alfredo said.
John Terry Named Anfield as the Best Stadium Atmosphere He Ever Played in
John Terry racked up 759 appearances at club level during his career, along with another 78 caps for England. With five Premier League titles and a Champions League triumph to his name, it’s no surprise that the former Chelsea and Three Lions captain experienced his fair share of daunting stadium atmospheres along the way.
Spending 19 years at Chelsea, Terry grew into the most decorated captain in the club’s history. He also became their highest-scoring defender of all time and one of only six players to wear the blue shirt more than 500 times — cementing his status as a true Stamford Bridge icon.
John Terry Named Anfield as The ‘Best Atmosphere’ He Played in
Terry has play at some incredible stadiums, new and old. ‘The Bridge’, is one of those, but more will have seen Terry grace the turf in their time.
He faced some of Europe’s most iconic venues during his career, including Barcelona’s Camp Nou, Bayern Munich’s Olympiastadion and Atletico Madrid’s Vicente Calderón among others. Yet it was on the domestic stage where he found the atmosphere that left the biggest impression, naming Anfield as the most intimidating ground he ever played in — and the one he remembers above all others.
Terry played at Anfield in five straight Champions League seasons between 2004/05 and 2008/09, largely under José Mourinho. Across those trips, Chelsea lost twice, drew twice and won once. His Premier League record there was also respectable, with five wins, two draws and three defeats at Liverpool’s home. Even with that solid return, Terry never hid his admiration for the stadium’s intensity.
John Terry: I have Never Heard Anything Like it
“I have never heard anything like it before and I don’t think I ever will again. It is the best atmosphere I’ve ever played in.
“I walked out into that cauldron and heard that singing and saw that passion. The hairs on my arms were standing up. To see a spectacle like that is inspiring to anyone.
“I just kept looking around, trying to take it all in. I wasn’t daunted by it, but it was amazing. I wish more crowds were like that.
“Apart from the volume, it looked spectacular, too. In the seconds before the referee blew his whistle for the start of the match, the whole stadium let out this great long roar as if they were going to power Liverpool to victory.”
It’s not an outlandish choice by the former Engalnd captain. Anfield really is one of football’s best grounds. Other clubs in the Premier League, including cross-city rivals Everton, Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester City have all moved to new grounds.
But Liverpool have only continued to expand Anfield, and there has never really been any notion that they will move on, especially having only recently expanded their Anfield Road stand. It’s a relic that will continue to build and develop whilst sitting in an incredible atmosphere, whilst also keeping the grandeur of the players and teams that have graced the famous turf in the past – including Terry.
Sin tax hike for stadiums? Most people we heard from say no: The Readers Write
More than 450 readers responded after I asked whether they would vote to quadruple Cuyahoga County’s sin tax on cigarettes and alcohol to help cover maintenance costs at Progressive Field, Rocket Arena and eventually the new football stadium.
The volume of responses was striking. So was the intensity.
Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb has proposed creating a taxing district around the Gateway complex so that those who attend games and spend money nearby would shoulder the burden. The teams would contribute under that plan, though they have declined to sign off. As a fallback, Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne has suggested quadrupling the sin tax — a move that would require voter approval. Without either, maintenance costs would fall to the general fund.
Readers clearly are fed up with being asked to pay for these facilities. They are weary of the debate. They resent that public money subsidizes billionaire team owners. But the responses also show divisions over fairness, public health, regionalism and Cleveland’s future.
Here’s a breakdown of the responses.
“Let the billionaires pay”
The dominant theme was frustration — even outrage — that taxpayers are repeatedly asked to shoulder costs associated with professional sports teams.
“I would not support any increase in taxes to support the billionaires who own these teams. I don’t like the taxing district around the facilities, but that’s better than penalizing everyone in Cuyahoga County.”
Many readers questioned why owners refuse to contribute more.
“I think it is pitiful that the sports teams, whose owners are BILLIONAIRES, won’t pony up money to support the teams that keep them rolling in dough. Pathetic! All taxpayers should NOT have to continue to subsidize these greedy owners. If they won’t pay and support their own team, why should we all be stuck paying their maintenance and upkeep? Typical: keep the poor and middle class in their place and make them pay, even if they don’t have the money, or the inclination, to do so.”
Another reader wrote:
“No!!! The teams and those that attend the games should bear all the costs. I feel strongly that taxpayers should not be supplementing the teams, who make millions. Why should taxpayers give the billionaires that own the teams money? Yes I feel very strongly about this. If they refuse to pay, let them leave. I just do not see the economics on supplementing sports teams and their owners.”
.
User fees over sin taxes
A second major theme: if money must be raised, it should come from those who attend games, not from smokers and drinkers across the county.
“Let those who attend sports events pay for their venues either through sales tax or increasing the price of admission. Are there any other leisure activities we ask everyone to pay for? Those of us who attend concerts pay our share through ticket prices. Rock climbing, gym memberships, same. I’ve never understood why football, baseball, and basketball are somehow communal responsibilities.”
One reader laid out a business-minded approach:
“I can’t help but feel that who should pay for the maintenance of the stadium would come from the lease payments, a tax on the tickets, consider taking something from the vendors and even the parking lots and restaurants in the area. Forget having to pass sin taxes, or the methods that would tax us all. Get the money from the users of the property not the folks that just drive by wishing they could afford to go to events. It just seems like common business sense to me!!!”
A $5 ticket surcharge idea surfaced repeatedly. Others suggested concession taxes, merchandise fees or sports-betting taxes.
Regressive and unfair
Many objected specifically to the sin tax as regressive — a tax that falls hardest on lower-income residents.
“Absolutely not! It is a tax on mostly low income Clevelanders, many of whom cannot afford to attend sports events. It’s wildly inequitable.”
A smoker offered a pointed critique, referring to a cigarette tax that pays for the arts in Cuyahoga County as well as the stadium issue:
“Hell no. I’m a smoker. Every time I see an Arts & Culture credit that claims funding is supported by “the people of Cuyahoga County” I want to scream “No, that’s a lie! It’s ONLY paid for by smokers!” We don’t mind not smoking inside A&C-sponsored events or institutions, but in most cases we can’t even smoke outside them. So you take my money, then ban me from the things I’ve paid for. As I’ve said to Chris Ronayne many many times, the least they could do is be honest and say “Cuyahoga Arts & Culture is funded by the cigarette smokers of Cuyahoga County.”
Others warned that tobacco and alcohol consumption are declining, making the tax unstable long-term.
“It seems foolish to continue pursuing increases in the “sin tax”. As fewer and fewer people indulge in the “sins” taxed, it cannot provide the funds needed.”
Public health and pragmatism
A smaller group supported the increase, arguing that higher taxes could reduce harmful behaviors.
“We’ve known for decades cigarettes kill people. New evidence is proving alcohol does too. Both are nuisance vices that have negative externalities like second hand smoke and drunk driving. And they are also stubbornly hard for people to abandon for reasons of both culture and addiction… I have ZERO sympathy for the people who buy this stuff regularly paying a little more, especially since there’s significant overlap between those people and fans of all these teams. Put the tax on the ballot. I’ll vote yes. My partner says she would too.”
Another reader framed it more simply:
“Yes. Increasing taxes on cigarettes decreases the rate of smoking in teens.”
Some supporters acknowledged their position was easier because they do not smoke or drink.
Go regional
Many readers argued the burden should extend beyond Cuyahoga County, since fans come from across Northeast Ohio.
“I support it and also think it should be expanded to surrounding counties as many of the folks who attend games do not live in Cuyahoga – myself included.”
One reader wrote:
“7 county regional tax is the right solution as all residents in those counties benefit from the 3 teams. All should share the costs. Pretty simple, right?”
Others asked why Lake, Lorain, Geauga and Summit residents — who attend games and identify as Browns, Cavs and Guardians fans — should get to use the facilities without contributing to them.
The Browns complication
The potential new football stadium in Brook Park loomed large in the responses. The covered stadium that the Browns plan to build there would not get sin taxes for repairs for some years, as it would be a new stadium that doesn’t need extra money for maintenance yet. But the move to Brook Park has been controversial. Several people said their vote would depend on whether the Browns get any money.
“Not if it pays for the Brook Park Billionaire Bowl.”
“If the sin tax goes to Browns, NO.”
Weariness with the debate
Perhaps most telling was the fatigue.
“No. I have honestly voted for that several times in the past. But it is getting so old that these teams aren’t agreeing to help pay some of these costs. And we continue to go back to the sin tax over and over again. There needs to be a more sustainable option.”
That sentiment — exhaustion with repeated stadium funding fights — ran through the responses.
Bills fans can’t get enough of Highmark Stadium collectibles
Want to bring home a memento from the current Buffalo Bills stadium before it’s torn down? You’ll soon get your chance, but be prepared to really open your wallet.
The Erie County Sheriff’s Office says police will be on alert at Sunday’s final regular-season game at Highmark Stadium for Buffalo Bills fans trying to snag an illegal souvenir.
Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | SoundStack | All Of Our Podcasts
Sure, Buffalo Bills fans can buy seats, pieces of the turf and goal post sections from the old Highmark Stadium. But the keepsake getting the most attention is the urinal troughs.
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Teenager Samra swaps snowy Canada for Mumbai heat with IPL dream
Bengaluru, Feb 25 (Reuters) – Yuvraj Samra honed his batting skills in indoor stadiums back home in snowy Canada and the gifted teenager is now ready to test himself in the heat of Mumbai as he chases an Indian Premier League deal after an impressive Twenty20 World Cup.
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While his World Cup adventure ended after Canada’s exit, Samra is eager to get used to Indian conditions and has shifted base to Mumbai to train under India international Yashasvi Jaiswal’s childhood coach Jwala Singh.
Konnor Griffin was featured on ‘You Got Mossed’
Konnor Griffin is only 19 years old and already turning heads as MLB’s top prospect, flexing his muscle by launching spring dingers out of stadiums. But the Pirates phenom is no stranger to jaw-dropping feats of athleticism. In fact, he’s been doing so since the ninth grade (that’s only something like five years ago for him, of course).
Griffin is a multi-sport athlete who excelled in football as well, and there’s video proof of perhaps his peak moment on the gridiron. As a middle school wide receiver, he was featured on the popular ESPN segment
Iron Maiden Sets ‘Run For Your Lives’ Tour of Australia
Iron Maiden will bring their brand of heavy metal thunder down under later this year.
The British heavy metal legends today (Feb. 27) announce the Australia dates of their Run For Your Lives World Tour, where they’ll play stadiums for the first time in both Melbourne and Sydney, and arenas in Adelaide and Brisbane.
Megadeth are special guests on the four-date run, which will get underway Nov. 11 at Adelaide Entertainment Centre, before hitting Melbourne’s AAMI Park (Nov. 13), Sydney’s Allianz Stadium (Nov. 15), and wrapping up Nov. 18 at Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
The Australia visit will mark Iron Maiden’s eighth, dating back to November 1982. Australians can’t get enough of them; Iron Maiden was here fewer than two years ago, in September 2024.
“This will be Iron Maiden’s biggest tour of Australia ever,” explains TEG Dainty president Paul Dainty, producer of the forthcoming run. “Headlining stadiums in Melbourne and Sydney for the first time in their 50-year history is a massive moment. And with Megadeth joining the tour, this is going to be an absolute powerhouse night of metal — two giants of the genre, one colossal production, and a show Australian fans won’t know what hit them.”
Iron Maiden has had a solid week. On Wednesday, the band’s name was called out for nomination into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame. And earlier, on Tuesday, Universal Pictures International (UPI) unveiled Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition, a feature film that’s said to trace the rockers’ “remarkable five‑decade journey” with “unprecedented access” to the rockers’ official archives.
Formed in East London in 1975, Iron Maiden are titans of the heavy genre, with 17 studio albums, over 100 million records sold, and more than 2,500 performances across 64 countries. In September 2021, Iron Maiden earned its highest charting album ever on the Billboard 200 as Senjutsu debuted at No. 3.
General public tickets for the Australia shows go on sale Friday, March 6.
Run For Your Lives Australia Dates
Nov. 11 — Adelaide Entertainment Centre
Nov. 13 — AAMI Park, Melbourne
Nov. 15 — Allianz Stadium, Sydney
Nov. 18 — Brisbane Entertainment Centre
The Case for Expanding Great American Ballpark’s Outfield
Since its opening in 2003, Great American Ballpark has been considered one of the most hitter friendly stadiums in the majors.
Although the park’s dimensions are very similar to the Reds’ former home, Riverfront Stadium, it still plays differently in practice. It is a hitter’s paradise, but a pitcher’s nightmare.
Part of what makes Great American so unique is its home run rate. Over the years, the ballpark has consistently ranked near the top of Major League Baseball in home runs allowed, especially down the left- and right-field lines.
In fact, from 2020-2024, it led the league with 1,031 home runs allowed. The next closest was Yankee Stadium at 981.
However, some of the best insight into this quirky ballpark comes from players who spent years in Cincinnati, and few know it better than Joey Votto.
In an interview with Jim Day on the Jim Day Podcast, Votto said that he’d
2026 World Cup schedule: Dates, times, stadiums all confirmed – Full details
The full schedule for the 2026 World Cup has been confirmed, with the kick off times, dates and venues for all 104 games now confirmed.
There are 100 days to go until the World Cup kicks off, and you can watch every single game live on Universo, Telemundo and Peacock en Espanol. Check out the latest on the superstars and how they’re shaping up ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
We now know where you can watch each team play across the USA, Canada and Mexico next summer and you can start making your plans.
MORE — World Cup base camps for every team | 2026 World Cup hub | 2026 World Cup venues
This is what it is all about, as we’ve been waiting years for the schedule for this 48-team tournament to be revealed.
Below are all the details you need.
2026 World Cup schedule, dates, times, stadiums, full details
Group A schedule
June 11: Mexico vs South Africa – Estadio Azteca, Mexico City – 3pm ET
June 11: South Korea vs UEFA playoff D – Estadio Akron, Guadalajara – 10pm
June 18: UEFA playoff D vs South Africa – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 12pm ET
June 18: Mexico vs South Korea – Estadio Akron, Guadalajara – 9pm ET
June 24: UEFA playoff D vs Mexico – Estadio Azteca, Mexico City – 9pm ET
June 24: South Africa vs South Korea – Estadio BBVA, Monterrey – 9pm ET
Group B schedule
June 12: Canada vs UEFA playoff A – BMO Field, Toronto – 3pm ET
June 13: Qatar vs Switzerland – Levi’s Stadium, San Francisco Bay Area – 3pm ET
June 18: Switzerland vs UEFA playoff A – SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – 3pm ET
June 18: Canada vs Qatar – BC Place, Vancouver – 6pm ET
June 24: Switzerland vs Canada – BC Place, Vancouver – 3pm ET
June 24: UEFA playoff A vs Qatar – Lumen Field, Seattle – 3pm ET
Group C schedule
June 13: Brazil vs Morocco – MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey – 6pm ET
June 13: Haiti vs Scotland – Gillette Stadium, Boston – 9pm ET
June 19: Scotland vs Morocco – Gillette Stadium, Boston – 6pm ET
June 19: Brazil vs Haiti – Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia – 9pm ET
June 24: Scotland vs Brazil – Hard Rock Stadium, Miami – 6pm ET
June 24: Morocco vs Haiti – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 6pm ET
Group D schedule
June 12: USA vs Paraguay – SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – 9pm ET
June 13: Australia vs UEFA playoff C – BC Place, Vancouver – Midnight ET
June 19: USA vs Australia – Lumen Field, Seattle – 3pm ET
June 19: UEFA playoff C vs Paraguay – Levi’s Stadium, San Francisco Bay Area – Midnight ET
June 25: UEFA playoff C vs USA – SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – 10pm ET
June 25: Paraguay vs Australia – Levi’s Stadium, San Francisco Bay Area – 10pm ET
Group E schedule
June 14: Germany vs Curacao – NRG Stadium, Houston – 1pm ET
June 14: Ivory Coast vs Ecuador – Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia – 7pm ET
June 20: Germany vs Ivory Coast – BMO Field, Toronto – 4pm ET
June 20: Ecuador vs Curacao – Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City – 8pm ET
June 25: Ecuador vs Germany – MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey – 4pm ET
June 25: Curacao vs Ivory Coast – Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia – 4pm ET
Group F schedule
June 14: Netherlands vs Japan – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 4pm ET
June 14: UEFA playoff B vs Tunisia – Estadio BBVA, Monterrey – 10pm ET
June 20: Netherlands vs UEFA playoff B – NRG Stadium, Houston – 1pm ET
June 20: Tunisia vs Japan – Estadio BBVA, Monterrey – Midnight ET
June 25: Japan vs UEFA playoff B – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 7pm ET
June 25: Tunisia vs Netherlands – Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City – 7pm ET
Group G schedule
June 15: Iran vs New Zealand – SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – 9pm ET
June 15: Belgium vs Egypt – Lumen Field, Seattle – 3pm ET
June 21: Belgium vs Iran – SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – 3pm ET
June 21: New Zealand vs Egypt – BC Place, Vancouver – 9pm ET
June 26: Egypt vs Iran – Lumen Field, Seattle – 11pm ET
June 26: New Zealand vs Belgium – BC Place, Vancouver – 11pm ET
Group H schedule
June 15: Spain vs Cape Verde – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 12pm ET
June 15: Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay – Hard Rock Stadium, Miami – 6pm ET
June 21: Spain vs Saudi Arabia – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 12pm ET
June 21: Uruguay vs Cape Verde – Hard Rock Stadium, Miami – 6pm ET
June 26: Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia – NRG Stadium, Houston – 8pm ET
June 26: Uruguay vs Spain – Estadio Akron, Guadalajara – 8pm ET
Group I schedule
June 16: France vs Senegal – MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey – 3pm ET
June 16: Inter-confederation playoff 2 vs Norway – Gillette Stadium, Boston – 6pm ET
June 22: France vs Inter-confederation playoff 2 – Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia – 5pm ET
June 22: Norway vs Senegal – MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey – 8pm ET
June 26: Norway vs France – Gillette Stadium, Boston – 3pm ET
June 26: Senegal vs Inter-confederation playoff 2 – BMO Field, Toronto – 3pm ET
Group J schedule
June 16: Argentina vs Algeria – Arrowhead Stadium – Kansas City – 9pm ET
June 16: Austria vs Jordan – Levi’s Stadium, San Francisco Bay Area – Midnight ET
June 22: Argentina vs Austria – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 1pm ET
June 22: Jordan vs Algeria – Levi’s Stadium, San Francisco Bay Area – 11pm ET
June 27: Algeria vs Austria – Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City – 10pm ET
June 27: Jordan vs Argentina – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 10pm ET
Group K schedule
June 17: Portugal vs Inter-confederation playoff 1 – NRG Stadium, Houston – 1pm ET
June 17: Uzbekistan vs Colombia – Estadio Azteca, Mexico City – 10pm ET
June 23: Portugal vs Uzbekistan – NRG Stadium, Houston – 1pm ET
June 23: Colombia vs Inter-confederation playoff 1 – Estadio Akron, Guadalajara – 10pm ET
June 27: Colombia vs Portugal – Hard Rock Stadium, Miami – 7:30pm ET
June 27: Inter-confederation playoff 1 vs Uzbekistan – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 7:30pm ET
Group L schedule
June 17: England vs Croatia – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 4pm ET
June 17: Ghana vs Panama – BMO Field, Toronto – 7pm ET
June 23: England vs Ghana – Gillette Stadium, Boston – 4pm ET
June 23: Panama vs Croatia – BMO Field, Toronto – 7pm ET
June 27: Panama vs England – MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey – 5pm ET
June 27: Croatia vs Ghana – Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia – 5pm ET
Round of 32 schedule
June 28: Match 73 – Runner up Group A vs Runner up Group B – SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – 3pm ET
June 29: Match 76 – Winner Group C vs Runner up Group F – NRG Stadium, Houston – 1pm ET
June 29: Match 74 – Winner Group E vs 3rd Group A/B/C/D/F – Gillette Stadium, Boston – 4:30pm ET
June 29: Match 75 – Winner Group F vs Runner up Group C – Estadio BBVA, Monterrey – 9pm ET
June 30: Match 78 – Runner up Group E vs Runner up Group I – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 1pm ET
June 30: Match 77 – Winner Group I vs 3rd Group C/D/F/G/H – MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey – 5pm ET
June 30: Match 79 – Winner Group A vs 3rd Group C/E/F/H/I – Estadio Azteca, Mexico City – 9pm ET
July 1: Match 80 – Winner Group L vs 3rd Group E/H/I/J/K – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 12pm ET
July 1: Match 82 – Winner Group G vs 3rd Group A/E/H/I/J – Lumen Field, Seattle – 4pm ET
July 1: Match 81 – Winner Group D vs 3rd Group B/E/F/I/J – Levi’s Stadium, San Francisco Bay Area – 8pm ET
July 2: Match 84 – Winner Group H vs Runner up Group J – SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – 3pm ET
July 2: Match 83 – Runner up Group K vs Runner up Group L – BMO Field, Toronto – 7pm ET
July 2: Match 85 – Winner Group B vs 3rd Group E/F/G/I/J – BC Place, Vancouver – 11pm ET
July 3: Match 88 – Runner up Group D vs Runner up Group G – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 2pm ET
July 3: Match 86 – Winner Group J vs Runner up Group H – Hard Rock Stadium, Miami – 6pm ET
July 3: Match 87 – Winner Group K vs 3rd Group D/E/I/J/L – Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City – 9:30pm ET
Round of 16 schedule
July 4: Match 90 – Winner Match 73 vs Winner Match 75 – NRG Stadium, Houston – 1pm ET
July 4: Match 89 – Winner Match 74 vs Winner Match 77 – Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia – 5pm ET
July 5: Match 91 – Winner Match 76 vs Winner Match 78 – MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey – 4pm ET
July 5: Match 92 – Winner Match 79 vs Winner Match 80 – Estadio Azteca, Mexico City – 8pm ET
July 6: Match 93 – Winner Match 83 vs Winner Match 84 – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 3pm ET
July 6: Match 94 – Winner Match 81 vs Winner Match 82 – Lumen Field, Seattle – 8pm ET
July 7: Match 95 – Winner Match 86 vs Winner Match 88 – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 12pm ET
July 7: Match 96 – Winner Match 85 vs Winner Match 87 – BC Place, Vancouver – 4pm ET
Quarterfinal schedule
July 9: Match 97 – Winner Match 89 vs Winner Match 90 – Gillette Stadium, Boston – 4pm ET
July 10: Match 98 – Winner Match 93 vs Winner Match 94 – SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – 3pm ET
July 11: Match 99 – Winner Match 91 vs Winner Match 92 – Hard Rock Stadium, Miami – 5pm ET
July 11: Match 100 – Winner Match 95 vs Winner Match 96 – Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City – 9pm ET
Semifinal schedule
July 14: Match 101 – Winner Match 97 vs Winner Match 98 – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 3pm ET
July 15: Match 102 – Winner Match 99 vs Winner Match 100 – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 3pm ET
Third-place game
July 18: Match 103 – Loser Match 101 vs Loser Match 102 – Hard Rock Stadium, Miami – 5pm ET
Final
July 19: Match 104 – Winner Match 101 vs Winner Match 102 – MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey – 3pm ET
Liga MX stadiums to host Leagues Cup phase one matches in 2026
The 2026 edition of Leagues Cup will see Liga MX teams host phase one matches in Mexico for the first time since the intraleague tournament debuted the modern format three years ago.
Phase one of the competition kicks off on Aug. 4, seeing 54 games between the 18 participating Major League Soccer clubs and all Liga MX teams. The current format will mirror the 2025 edition of Leagues Cup, as clubs compete in three matches in an attempt to qualify to the knockout rounds.
Like the previous year, all 54 phase one matches are set to be played between Liga MX and MLS clubs.
Four phase one matches will be played in Mexico: highest ranked Club Toluca hosts two matches, while Tigres UANL and Club América host one match each.
Toluca welcomes the Seattle Sounders and FC Dallas at the Estadio Nemesio Díez for Phase One games, as Club América hosts San Diego FC at the Estadio Banorte and Tigres UANL faces the Vancouver Whitecaps at Estadio Universitario.
The first phase of the tournament will also see Inter Miami CF meet CF Monterrey, seeing new Designated Player Germán Berterame face off against his previous Liga MX club for the first time since departing during the January transfer window.
– Inter Miami invited to White House to mark MLS Cup win – source
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– Atlético Madrid’s Griezmann pauses plans for MLS move – sources
Teams that qualify to the knockout stage will then be paired with counterparts of the opposing league based on each performance from the first round. The upcoming edition of Leagues Cup will maintain the no draws format, meaning any game that concludes regulation time with a tie will go directly to penalties.
According to Leagues Cup rules:
Where is the 2026 World Baseball Classic? Locations for tournament
Where is the 2026 World Baseball Classic?
Pool play for the baseball tournament featuring 20 nations is underway at four different sites.
Here’s what to know about where each nation is playing in pool play and the quarterfinal, semifinal and championship rounds of the 2026 WBC tournament.
The tournament runs through March 17.
Most games can be streamed on FUBO, which offers a free trial. Check the schedule for the complete World Baseball Classic schedule with TV channels and streaming information.
Watch World Baseball Classic games on FUBO (free trial)
World Baseball Classic pool play locations
Pool A of the World Baseball Classic is being played in San Juan, Puerto Rico, with Canada, Colombia, Cuba, Panama and Puerto Rico competing in that pool at Hiram Bithorn Stadium.
Pool B is being held in Houston with Brazil, Great Britain, Italy, Mexico and the United States playing at Daikin Park.
Pool C in Tokyo consists of Australia, Chinese Taipei, Czechia, Japan and Korea facing off at the Tokyo Dome.
The Dominican Republic, Israel, the Netherlands, Nicaragua and Venezuela comprise Pool D at loanDepot park in Miami.
Pool play runs through March 11.
World Baseball Classic quarterfinal locations
Houston and Miami will host the quarterfinal games in the 2026 World Baseball Classic on March 13 and March 14.
World Baseball Classic semifinal locations
Miami will host both World Baseball Classic semifinal matchups on March 15 and March 16.
World Baseball Classic championship location
Miami will also host the WBC championship game on March 17.
Reach Jeremy Cluff at jeremy.cluff@arizonarepublic.com. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter @Jeremy_Cluff.
Novak Djokovic Makes Feelings Clear on Serena Williams’ Silence Over Comeback Talks
Few comeback stories in sport carry the electricity felt when Michael Jordan reappeared in the NBA wearing No. 45. Now similar intrigue swirls around Serena Williams, as whispers grow louder that the tennis icon may lace up again. Even Novak Djokovic, rarely one to reveal much emotion, has found it hard to conceal his excitement over the tantalizing possibility.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, Djokovic was asked about Serena Williams’ possible return to professional tennis. “I think she’s coming back,” Djokovic said.
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“I don’t know. I haven’t spoken to her, but I guess the sentiment is that she’s coming back. Where and how, singles, doubles, we don’t know, and if I’m in her position, I would hide it too.”
Djokovic also revealed that many players on tour are talking about the possibility.
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He admitted that the buzz around the tour is growing stronger every day. “Everybody is excited, and it’s definitely something that’s very highly anticipated,” he said.
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Djokovic even suggested where her comeback could happen. The Serbian pointed to Wimbledon as a fitting stage for Serena’s return.
“I pick that one as well as her comeback,” he said. “I don’t know. I think she might maybe play a doubles tournament or two with Venus. That would be nice to see, just from my point of view and tennis fans’, for sure. She’s one of the greatest athletes, really. It would be great to have her back, too.”
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The latest wave of speculation began months ago. In the fall of 2025, Serena quietly re-entered the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s registered testing pool. That step is required for players who want to compete again professionally.
The process involves random drug testing and daily whereabouts reporting. Players must also complete a six-month compliance period before returning to competition. Williams officially met that requirement on Feb. 22, 2026.
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Earlier, Serena strongly denied the comeback rumors. She posted a blunt message on social media to shut down speculation. “Omg y’all I’m NOT coming back.”
However, the conversation returned after a practice video surfaced online. American Alycia Parks shared a clip of herself hitting with Williams. The video quickly caught the attention of tennis fans everywhere.
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Parks later spoke about the experience in an interview. She described Serena as a valuable mentor who still helps her on the practice court. “I actually practiced with her last Monday. And I messaged her yesterday. She’s definitely a good mentor to me, and she’s helped me a lot, especially in my practices,” commented the American.
She also praised Serena’s current fitness level. Parks believes the 23-time Grand Slam champion still looks ready for the tour. “She is in great shape. So I think she would kill it on tour.”
Meanwhile, Djokovic’s excitement has only added to the growing buzz, especially after he previously challenged the American icon to play a match.
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Novak Djokovic jokes he’s challenging Serena Williams to return
Serena Williams stepped away from tennis after playing at the US Open in 2022. At that time, she explained that she preferred to describe the decision as “evolving” away from the sport rather than officially retiring. Since that tournament, she has not played another official match on the professional tour.
Meanwhile, her older sister Venus Williams has continued to appear on court. She returned to Grand Slam competition by playing at last year’s US Open. It marked her first Grand Slam appearance in two years.
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During the same tournament, Novak Djokovic shared his thoughts about Serena’s absence. He spoke after winning his first-round match and reflected on seeing Serena involved in tennis again.
Djokovic had recently watched Serena help induct longtime rival Maria Sharapova into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. The moment reminded many fans of Serena’s legacy in the sport.
“Of course, seeing Serena in any shape or form around tennis is great. You know, we miss her,” Djokovic said. Then he added with a wry smile: “She still hasn’t officially retired.”
He continued with a playful challenge directed at the American icon. “So I invite her. I challenge her. Because she’s such a great competitor, when somebody challenges her, she never refuses. So I challenge Serena: Come back on the tour next year.”
Even this year, Venus has also addressed the growing speculation. After her run at the ATX Open earlier in 2026, Venus reacted to the idea of playing doubles with her sister.
“Oh man, wouldn’t that be cool?” she said. But she quickly followed it with a playful remark. “I never see her practicing, though.” When reporters mentioned videos of Serena hitting on court, Venus kept the joke going. “But I don’t know where she’s doing it.”
She then offered a more realistic perspective on what a comeback requires. “To come back, you have to get out there,” Venus remarked.
With rumors continuing to grow, fans are wondering if Serena could return to the sport soon. Some even speculate about a possible appearance at Wimbledon Championships this year.
What do you think, though?
All about her 12-carat diamond from Georgios Frangulis
Aryna Sabalenka’s new ring is a grand slam.
The world No. 1 tennis star, 27, is engaged to fiancé Georgios Frangulis. The Brazilian entrepreneur, 37, proposed on Mar. 3 in front of an elaborate display of roses and candles, presenting a custom 12-carat oval diamond ring set in platinum, accented with emeralds — Sabalenka’s favorite stone.
Sabalenka shared the news on Instagram, captioning her post, “You & me, forever ♾️ 3.3.26 💍🤍” and drawing congratulations from famous friends like David Beckham, Novak Djokovic and Coco Gauff.
The ring was designed by Isabela Grutman, founder and CEO of Isa Grutman Jewelry, who worked with Frangulis to perfect the piece.
“We spent months working on the design, selecting the stones, and perfecting every detail of the craftsmanship to make it truly special for Aryna,” Grutman told the Daily Mail. “What made it even more meaningful was Georgios’ idea to incorporate emeralds into the design, as it’s her favorite stone — a personal touch that makes the ring uniquely hers.”
Rustin Yasavolian, CEO at Masina Diamonds, told the publication the ring is worth an estimated $500,000 to $800,000.
That puts it in the company of some serious celebrity sparklers. Kourtney Kardashian’s oval-cut ring from Travis Barker — designed by Lorraine Schwartz and estimated at around 10 to 12 carats — is believed to be worth about $1 million, while Kris Jenner’s heart-cut diamond — which she debuted in 2023 — clocks in at about 10 carats and $1.2 million, experts told Page Six Style.
Sabalenka dropped a very public hint to Frangulis earlier this year, joking at the Brisbane International in January, “Thank you to my boyfriend … hopefully soon I can call you something else.”
The four-time Grand Slam champion nodded to the comment in a second post about the engagement, writing, “I can finally call him something else… FIANCÉ 💍”
The actual moment, however, clearly caught her off guard. In footage of the proposal, she’s wearing baggy jeans and a white T-shirt, along with flip-flops and a loose braid.
In a video posted by the WTA, the Belarusian tennis pro walks into practice carrying her dog and flashing her ring when someone behind the camera asks if she was surprised.
“I mean, obviously,” she said with a laugh. “Did you see my outfit and no-makeup look and flip-flops?”
When asked how she’s doing, she responds with a laugh, “Feeling shiny!”
Grutman also shared a behind-the-scenes Reel documenting her process, from inspecting the stone to reviewing CAD images.
“I’m analyzing this 12-carat oval diamond,” she said. “When I have the future husband pick the perfect ring and stones, I analyze first about the woman. What is she like? Is she more modern? Is she more classic?”
Sabalenka is currently competing at the Indian Wells Open in California with Frangulis cheering her on courtside — and now, a little extra sparkle on her left hand.
Ten top 25 players in Charleston Open preliminary field
Charleston’s Emma Navarro and defending champion Jessica Pegula, the world’s No. 5-ranked player, highlight the preliminary player field for the Credit One Charleston Open.
The Charleston Open, North America’s largest women’s-only professional tennis tournament, is March 28-April 5 on Daniel Island. The preliminary main draw is highlighted by 10 top 25 players, 11 Americans, three Grand Slam singles champions and four former Charleston champions. As the kick-off event of the clay season on the WTA Tour, the tournament was recently named the WTA 500 Tournament of the Year for the fourth consecutive year.
Headlining the field are Pegula; world No. 6, two-time 2025 Grand Slam finalist Amanda Anisimova; world two-time Charleston semifinalist Ekaterina Alexandrova (No. 11); 2020 Olympic Gold Medalist and 2022 Charleston champion Belinda Bencic (No. 12); 2025 Australian Open champion and 2019 Charleston champion Madison Keys (No. 15); 2025 Guadalajara champion and 18-year-old sensation Iva Jovic (No. 18); 2025 Monterrey champion Diana Shnaider (No. 20); and Merida champion Navarro (No. 25).
The 2026 lineup also reflects the strength of American tennis, with 11 U.S. players entered in the main draw, including Pegula, Anisimova, Keys, Sofia Kenin and Navarro, as well as Jovic, Peyton Stearns, Hailey Baptiste, McCartney Kessler, Caty McNally and Ashlyn Krueger.
Former champions Keys, Pegula, Bencic and Daria Kasatkina (2017) return to compete for another Charleston title.
Serena Williams Gets The Barbie Treatment For International Women’s Day
There are women who inspire a generation, and then there is Serena Williams, who has managed to inspire several.
Now she has the doll to prove it. In celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8th, Mattel has unveiled a one-of-a-kind Barbie Role Model doll made in the likeness of the tennis legend and entrepreneur, adding her to Barbie’s inaugural “Dream Team,” a global group of eight women recognized for breaking barriers in their fields.
The custom doll is part of a broader initiative Barbie is launching this month to spotlight the power of female role models. The Dream Team highlights women from around the world who are meant to serve as role models for the next generation. The idea is that when when girls see themselves reflected in success, it can shape what they believe is possible.
“I have always drawn inspiration from the powerful women in my life — from my mom, sisters, and daughters to the dolls in my toy box growing up,” Williams said.
“Now, I’m thrilled to be honored alongside this incredible group of female changemakers as part of the Barbie Dream Team. Just like so many women have empowered me to turn my fear into courage and doubt into confidence, I hope we can do the same by championing girls everywhere to pick up a racquet, become an entrepreneur, or do whatever ignites their passion and brings their dreams to life.”
The girl who grew up playing on public courts in Compton is now a Barbie. It doesn’t get more full-circle than that.
Williams is joined on the U.S. roster by Kellie Gerardi, a spaceflight researcher and science communicator. Together they’re part of a Dream Team that spans eight women across the globe, each honored with their own custom doll made in their likeness.
Mattel is also making a full month of it. Alongside the Dream Team announcement, the brand is rolling out new consumer products, a series of “Dream Days” deals, and the first-ever Barbie Dream Fest, a fan festival dedicated entirely to Barbie and its community.
Serena Williams already has 23 Grand Slam titles, a venture capital firm, and a growing business empire. Now she can add Barbie to the résumé. Safe to say, Serena has never had a slow season.
Where to watch today’s Paribas Open Tennis matches: Day 2 TV schedule, free streams
The 2026 Paribas Open tennis tournament rolls into Day 2 at Indian Wells featuring the next wave of first-round matches and the start of women’s doubles play. Day 2 of the tournament starts with continued first-round action in the men’s singles divisions with TV coverage on Tennis Channel and streaming on-demand.
How to watch Day 2 at the 2026 Paribas Open and top current offers to live stream on Tennis Channel:
When: Thursday, March 5 starting at 2 p.m. ET (11 a.m. PT)
Where: Indian Wells Tennis Garden, Indian Wells, Calif.
TV channels: Tennis Channel
Streaming on: FuboTV (free trial) | DirecTV (free trial) | SlingTV (low intro rate)
FuboTV (free trial): FuboTV offers the most extensive package of live sports with rates competitive with DirecTV. The FuboTV Pro ($48.99 first month), Elite ($53.99) and Deluxe ($73.99) all come with first-month discounts. Monthly rates rise to $73.99, $83.99 and $103.99 after the first-month discount.
DirecTV (free trial): DirecTV offers a 5-day free trial and a total of $30 off over the first three full months for the Choice Package, which includes 125-plus channels and access to ESPN Unlimited, a $29.99 standalone value featuring all ESPN channels and ESPN+.
SlingTV (low intro rate): First full month of streaming runs as low as $29.99 with current offer for 50% off Sling’s Orange & Blue Plan. Day passes are also available for 24 hours ($4.99), as well as three-day ($9.99) and seven-day access ($14.99).
The full schedule for Thursday, March 5 at the 2026 Paribas Open can be found below:
PARIBAS OPEN TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS 2026
TV & STREAMING SCHEDULE: THURSDAY, MARCH 5
Times listed in ET and subject to change
MEN’S SINGLES
FIRST ROUND
2:00 PM: Alexander Shevchenko vs. Sho Shimabukuro – Stadium 5
2:00 PM: Kamil Majchrzak vs. Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard – Stadium 4
2:00 PM: Terence Atmane vs. Grigor Dimitrov – Stadium 1
3:30 PM: Chun-Hsin Tseng vs. Sebastian Baez – Stadium 5
3:30 PM: Jacob Fearnley vs. Damir Dzumhur – Stadium 4
4:00 PM: Hubert Hurkacz vs. Aleksandar Kovacevic – Stadium 2
5:00 PM: Valentin Royer vs. Benjamin Bonzi – Stadium 5
5:00 PM: Fabian Marozsan vs. Roberto Bautista Agut – Stadium 4
5:30 PM: Daniel Merida Aguilar vs. Alex Michelsen – Stadium 2
6:00 PM: Juan Manuel Cerundolo vs. Botic Van De Zandschulp – Stadium 5
6:00 PM: Nuno Borges vs. Emilio Nava – Stadium 3
6:30 PM: Alejandro Tabilo vs. Rafael Jodar – Stadium 6
7:30 PM: Francesco Maestrelli vs. Rinky Hijikata – Stadium 5
7:30 PM: Matteo Arnaldi vs. Mackenzie McDonald – Stadium 3
9:00 PM: Sebastian Korda vs. Francisco Comesana – Stadium 1
10:30 PM: Michael Zheng vs. Vit Kopriva – Stadium 2
WOMEN’S SINGLES
FIRST ROUND
2:00 PM: Lanlana Tararudee vs. Sonay Kartal – Stadium 7
2:00 PM: Marie Bouzkova vs. Taylor Townsend – Stadium 3
2:00 PM: Magda Linette vs. Ashlyn Krueger – Stadium 2
2:00 PM: Laura Siegemund vs. Petra Marcinko – Stadium 9
3:30 PM: Elsa Jacquemot vs. Anna Bondar – Stadium 9
3:30 PM: Francesca Jones vs. Kayla Day – Stadium 7
3:30 PM: Donna Vekic vs. Tereza Valentova – Stadium 3
4:00 PM: Diane Parry vs. Venus Williams – Stadium 1
5:00 PM: Cristina Bucsa vs. Darja Vidmanova – Stadium 7
5:00 PM: Storm Hunter vs. Magdalena Frech – Stadium 9
5:00 PM: Varvara Gracheva vs. Lilli Tagger – Stadium 3
5:30 PM: Katerina Siniakova vs. Sofia Kenin – Stadium 1
6:00 PM: Katie Volynets vs. Rebecca Sramkova – Stadium 4
7:30 PM: Emiliana Arango vs. Hailey Baptiste – Stadium 4
9:00 PM: Antonia Ruzic vs. Jennifer Brady – Stadium 2
10:30 PM: Peyton Stearns vs. Solana Sierra – Stadium 1
WOMEN’S DOUBLES
FIRST ROUND
TBD: Mirra Andreeva / Victoria Mboko vs. Elise Mertens / Zhang Shuai – Round 1
TBD: Ulrikke Eikeri / Jiang Xinyu vs. Gabriela Dabrowski / Luisa Stefani – Round 1
2:00 PM: Guo Hanyu / Kristina Mladenovic vs. Linda Noskova / Diana Shnaider – Stadium 6
3:30 PM: Sara Errani / Jasmine Paolini vs. Jaqueline Cristian / Clara Tauson – Stadium 6
5:00 PM: McCartney Kessler / Jessica Pegula vs. Eri Hozumi / Fang-Hsien Wu – Stadium 6
6:30 PM: Lyudmyla Kichenok / Desirae Krawczyk vs. Tereza Mihalikova / Olivia Nicholls – Stadium 7
6:30 PM: Hao-Ching Chan / Janice Tjen vs. Andreja Klepac / Katarzyna Piter – Stadium 9
‘I Poured My Soul Into It. I’m Hurt’: Juan Carlos Ferrero Is Ready to Talk
Seven years. Six Grand Slams. One of the most celebrated coach-player relationships in tennis history. And then, on December 17th, 2025, seventeen days before Christmas, three weeks before the Australian Open, a social media post ended it all.
Carlos Alcaraz announced the split in warm language: “Thank you for turning childhood dreams into realities. We started this journey when I was barely a kid, and throughout all this time, you’ve accompanied me on an incredible journey, on and off the court.” Juan Carlos Ferrero replied in the language of a man who had not wanted it to end. His final line, buried in an otherwise dignified statement, said everything: “I would have liked to continue.”
That single sentence opened the door. What followed was weeks of leaks, speculation, coded statements, and pointed silences. A very Spanish drama conducted almost entirely in subtext. And now, with Indian Wells underway and Alcaraz marching through the draw on a 12-match winning streak, Ferrero is ready to close that door properly.
He is set to appear on the Spanish television program El Cafelito this Thursday at 3:30 PM to present, in his own words, his full account of what happened. The trailer alone has already reignited discussion. Ferrero told host Josep Pedrerol: “I’m very happy to have been able to tell my story. Often, a phrase or two is enough to spark speculation, and these interviews allow for in-depth discussions.”
So what do we actually know before he speaks?
Ferrero to Speak Out on Alcaraz Split
The Timeline and the Money Question
The bare facts are these: the 2025 season ended, contract renewal talks began, and no agreement was reached. Spanish radio journalist Javier de Diego reported at the time that “the relationship broke down two days ago when no agreement was reached in the negotiations for the new contract.” But anyone waiting for a clear financial explanation was quickly disabused. Ferrero pushed back on the money framing almost immediately. “There’s been talk that I was asking for more, and, indeed, they always showed me consideration by giving me a very high percentage for those early years,” he said in his first interview with Marca. “I tried to make it clear that money wasn’t one of the problems, nor the reason why I was part of this project.”
What, then?
Multiple threads have been pulled. The most consistent theme running through every account points to Alcaraz’s father and the family’s tightening grip on decision-making. A source close to the Alcaraz camp told CLAY and RG Media that “there were significant disagreements between Ferrero and Alcaraz’s father about how to manage the player’s career.” Alcaraz’s first childhood coach, Carlos Santos, was blunter still: “Carlos’s father is the one who’s really in charge. Carlitos has nothing to do with it. I mean, Carlitos would have continued for as long as Juan Carlos wanted.”
Ferrero himself, in his Marca interview, gestured at something deeper and more mundane. “When you spend that much time together, there’s always some wear and tear,” he said, and acknowledged that certain issues were never fully discussed. “Perhaps they could have been resolved if we had sat down to talk, but in the end we didn’t.” The most pointed detail he revealed was that he never directly told Alcaraz he would walk away. He assumed the player knew through his camp. The father-as-intermediary dynamic implied throughout was not lost on anyone reading carefully.
Ferrero described a breakdown in negotiations that shifted “from the court to the boardroom,” involving what he called “non-sporting clauses”. Toni Nadal, characteristically direct, refused to accept the framing of Alcaraz as passive in all this. “I understand that nothing is done without Carlos’ approval, of course,” he said. Former player Pablo Carreno Busta drew the parallel many had been making privately, comparing the split to Rafael Nadal’s eventual separation from his uncle Toni. The suggestion being that some coaching relationships simply reach a natural ceiling regardless of how much they produce.
The After Effects
Alcaraz’s public response has been careful and warm, but not illuminating. At his Melbourne press conference, he called it “a mutual decision” and said, “No decision is made without discussing it together.” Later, after winning the Australian Open, his seventh Grand Slam and his first without Ferrero in the box, he acknowledged having experienced “certain doubts” after reading negative comments following the decision, before insisting: “We saw that we needed a change.”
The result is a picture that is legible even without all its details filled in. A coach who gave everything and wanted to keep going. An inner circle that had grown powerful enough to make that impossible. A player caught somewhere in between who said the right things publicly and then went out and won a Grand Slam.
Some observers have noted a subtle shift in behaviour since the split. Ferrero had insisted on fierce discipline and focus between points. In Doha last week, Alcaraz lashed out at a chair umpire over a time violation, something that would likely have been handled differently with his former coach watching from the box.
None of this diminishes what they built. Six major titles from a partnership that began when Alcaraz was fifteen years old, discovered and developed at Ferrero’s academy in Villena. It is arguably the most successful coaching project in men’s tennis this decade, measured purely by its results. Ferrero conducted that first Marca interview at the academy where it all began, the same facilities where Alcaraz was shaped as a junior. The detail is almost too symbolic to be accidental.
He sits with an open wound and a story not yet fully told. Thursday, he tells it.
Tras ganar el Abierto de Australia, Carlos Alcaraz arranca su participación en BNP Paribas Open
El número uno del mundo, Carlos Alcaraz, debutará este viernes en BNP Paribas Open de Indian Wells Tennis Garden en busca de conquistar un tercer título en el desierto californiano.
El español, reciente campeón del Australian Open 2026, enfrentará al ex número tres del mundo Grigor Dimitrov en la ronda de 64 del torneo.
En el mismo lado del cuadro también aparece el serbio Novak Djokovic, quien podría reencontrarse con Alcaraz antes de la final del torneo, tras haber sido su rival en la final del Abierto de Australia este año.
Alcaraz se enfrentó a Dimitrov la temporada pasada en este mismo torneo. El búlgaro solamente logró arrebatarle dos sets en la cuarta ronda, aunque el español terminó avanzando a semifinales, donde cayó ante el eventual campeón, el británico Jack Draper. Dimitrov acostumbra a tener buenas actuaciones en Indian Wells, con una semifinal en 2021 y cuartos de final en 2022.
“Me encanta el ambiente aquí”, dijo Alcaraz, de 22 años y campeón del torneo en 2023 y 2024 previo al torneo. “Trato de jugar mi mejor tenis cuando realmente importa”.
El miércoles se reunieron cientos de seguidores para rodear su sesión de práctica por la tarde.
Entre los principales favoritos también figura el italiano Jannik Sinner, aunque nunca ha alcanzado las semifinales en Indian Wells. Alcaraz y Sinner se encuentran en lados opuestos del cuadro, lo que abre la posibilidad de un enfrentamiento en la final.
Alcaraz avanzó automáticamente a la segunda ronda por su condición de cabeza de serie y ahora enfrentará a Dimitrov, quien venció al francés Terence Atmane en su debut.
Man convicted in deadly shooting outside East Sacramento tennis club
A Sacramento County jury has convicted a man of first-degree murder in a deadly shooting that happened three and a half years ago in the city’s Fab 40s neighborhood.
DeSean Brasser shot and killed Charles Starzynski, 70, on October 20, 2022, outside the Sutter Lawn Tennis Club. The Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office said the jury also found true that Brasser robbed Starzynski.
That day, Starzynski had gone to an ATM in Midtown Sacramento to make business deposits for a local food chain, prosecutors said. Brasser, who was a passenger in a vehicle nearby driven by another suspect, spotted Starzynski walking back to his vehicle and placing a blue bank bag in his trunk.
Brasser followed Starzynski as he drove away and into the parking area behind the Sutter Lawn Tennis Club. That is when law enforcement officials said Brasser, armed with a gun, approached Starzynski as he was standing at the rear of the vehicle with the trunk open.
Prosecutors said a witness heard Brasser say
Fatigue a factor as early matches begin at Indian Wells
The early rounds of the BNP Paribas Open began Wednesday, with top seeds slated to start play Friday during the 12-day ATP and WTPA Master 1000 tournament.
A busy stretch of the tennis season reaches another gear at Indian Wells Tennis Garden, the second largest outdoor tennis stadium in the world.
While many consider it the “fifth Grand Slam” because of its elite player field, amenities and equal prize money for men and women, professionals acknowledge the tournament is part of a stressful stretch on the tennis calendar.
Indian Wells is followed by the Miami Open, another two-week Master 1000 tournament. The tour stops are known as the “Sunshine Double.”
Some players made the short trip from Indian Wells to Las Vegas this past weekend to participate in the MGM Grand Slam, an exhibition designed to help players ramp up for back-to-back tournaments.
American Reilly Opelka, a 6-foot–11 pro, said managing fatigue after a series of tournaments before hitting Indian Wells has altered his practice and play in exhibition matches, including a loss to 19-year-old Brazilian Joao Fonseca in Las Vegas.
“Normally in any kind of competition, you get excited and play with a pressure point … but you don’t feel this when you are practicing,” Opelka said.
“I was trying to feel like this a few days ago while practicing with … [Tommy Paul,] but instead we got tired and hungry. … Tthat usually doesn’t happen. We just decided to stop and go to eat somewhere.”
Paul said despite the decision to cut practice short, he feels fresh for the upcoming events.
“I started the year pretty well and for Americans, we are excited for the Sunshine Double,” Paul said.
Casper Rudd lost to Opelka during the first round of the Las Vegas exhibition. The Norwegian also lost a week ago during the first round of the Acapulco Open, falling to Chinese qualifier Yibing Wu in straight sets.
Rudd said he felt “extremely tired” after the Australian Open in January.
Rancho Palo Verdes resident Taylor Fritz, ranked No. 7 in the world, said the best way to prepare yourself for grueling tour schedule is “putting [in] the time, work and repetition.”
“… Be there, be focused on the quality that you are doing,” said Fritz, a 28-year-old who won the Indian Wells title in 2022.
While some players are guarding against burnout, others struggled to even reach California. Some players who live in Dubai, including Russians Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev, have to contend with closed airspace triggered by the U.S. and Israel bombing Iran.
The ATP announced Wednesday that, “the vast majority of players who were in Dubai have successfully departed today on selected flights.”
No. 23 Florida falls flat against No. 4 LSU, endsing three
The Gators have posted a dominant showing in their spring season, most recently riding a three-match winning streak.
Florida hoped to capitalize on that confidence and bring home another victory in its matchup against the Tigers but struggled against its first top 5 team of the season.
The No. 23 Florida Gators (7-2, 2-1 SEC) lost to the No. 4 LSU Tigers (8-3, 1-2 SEC) 4-0 Thursday evening at the LSU Tennis Complex.
Doubles play began rough for the Gators, battling a team that has secured the doubles point in seven matches across the season.
Florida’s duo of India Houghton and Lucie Pawlak was first to fall. Despite coming in on a high, with Houghton earning SEC player of the week and Pawlak SEC co-freshman of the week, the pair couldn’t hold out. The match ended in a clean 6-0 loss to LSU’s Alexia Marginean and Addison Lanton in less than half an hour.
The junior-freshman pair of Valery Gynina and Brooke Black suffered an unusual fate in their doubles match. Previously undefeated, the Gators couldn’t clinch the victory this time against LSU’s Cadence Brace and Carolina Kuhl, losing 6-4.
The final doubles match was retired since LSU secured the doubles point. The No. 19 pair of Xinyi Nong and Nikola Daubnerova led No. 9 Kayla Cross and Ella McDonald 5-4.
The Gators tried to take control of the matchup in singles, but again, the Tigers put up too strong a fight.
Pawlak carried much momentum from last week after winning the decisive game for the victory against Oklahoma. However, the Gator suffered a tough 6-0, 6-2 loss, awarding LSU its first singles point.
Houghton’s match proved equally as difficult. The California native fell 6-2, 6-1 to No. 52 Cadence Brace, just days after the Gator had entered the ITA rankings in the No. 103 spot.
Following suit with the rest of her team, No. 26 Gabia Paskauskas lost to LSU’s Ella McDonald 6-2, 6-3, giving the Tigers their match-ending 4-0 lead.
With the rest of the matches retired, Black was the only Gator who seemed to have had a chance. She held the advantage over Kuhl, going 6-4, 4-2. The Gator freshman proved why she carries a five-game winning streak, but didn’t have the opportunity to close it out with the swift LSU victory.
The loss to LSU marks the second SEC defeat for the Gators, taking their conference record to 2-2.
Florida will continue its road stretch against Ole Miss on Saturday at 2 p.m. in Oxford, Mississippi.
Novak Djokovic Makes Feelings Clear on Serena Williams’ Silence Over Comeback Talks
Few comeback stories in sport carry the electricity felt when Michael Jordan reappeared in the NBA wearing No. 45. Now similar intrigue swirls around Serena Williams, as whispers grow louder that the tennis icon may lace up again. Even Novak Djokovic, rarely one to reveal much emotion, has found it hard to conceal his excitement over the tantalizing possibility.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, Djokovic was asked about Serena Williams’ possible return to professional tennis. “I think she’s coming back,” Djokovic said.
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“I don’t know. I haven’t spoken to her, but I guess the sentiment is that she’s coming back. Where and how, singles, doubles, we don’t know, and if I’m in her position, I would hide it too.”
Djokovic also revealed that many players on tour are talking about the possibility.
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He admitted that the buzz around the tour is growing stronger every day. “Everybody is excited, and it’s definitely something that’s very highly anticipated,” he said.
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Djokovic even suggested where her comeback could happen. The Serbian pointed to Wimbledon as a fitting stage for Serena’s return.
“I pick that one as well as her comeback,” he said. “I don’t know. I think she might maybe play a doubles tournament or two with Venus. That would be nice to see, just from my point of view and tennis fans’, for sure. She’s one of the greatest athletes, really. It would be great to have her back, too.”
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The latest wave of speculation began months ago. In the fall of 2025, Serena quietly re-entered the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s registered testing pool. That step is required for players who want to compete again professionally.
The process involves random drug testing and daily whereabouts reporting. Players must also complete a six-month compliance period before returning to competition. Williams officially met that requirement on Feb. 22, 2026.
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Earlier, Serena strongly denied the comeback rumors. She posted a blunt message on social media to shut down speculation. “Omg y’all I’m NOT coming back.”
However, the conversation returned after a practice video surfaced online. American Alycia Parks shared a clip of herself hitting with Williams. The video quickly caught the attention of tennis fans everywhere.
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Parks later spoke about the experience in an interview. She described Serena as a valuable mentor who still helps her on the practice court. “I actually practiced with her last Monday. And I messaged her yesterday. She’s definitely a good mentor to me, and she’s helped me a lot, especially in my practices,” commented the American.
She also praised Serena’s current fitness level. Parks believes the 23-time Grand Slam champion still looks ready for the tour. “She is in great shape. So I think she would kill it on tour.”
Meanwhile, Djokovic’s excitement has only added to the growing buzz, especially after he previously challenged the American icon to play a match.
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Novak Djokovic jokes he’s challenging Serena Williams to return
Serena Williams stepped away from tennis after playing at the US Open in 2022. At that time, she explained that she preferred to describe the decision as “evolving” away from the sport rather than officially retiring. Since that tournament, she has not played another official match on the professional tour.
Meanwhile, her older sister Venus Williams has continued to appear on court. She returned to Grand Slam competition by playing at last year’s US Open. It marked her first Grand Slam appearance in two years.
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During the same tournament, Novak Djokovic shared his thoughts about Serena’s absence. He spoke after winning his first-round match and reflected on seeing Serena involved in tennis again.
Djokovic had recently watched Serena help induct longtime rival Maria Sharapova into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. The moment reminded many fans of Serena’s legacy in the sport.
“Of course, seeing Serena in any shape or form around tennis is great. You know, we miss her,” Djokovic said. Then he added with a wry smile: “She still hasn’t officially retired.”
He continued with a playful challenge directed at the American icon. “So I invite her. I challenge her. Because she’s such a great competitor, when somebody challenges her, she never refuses. So I challenge Serena: Come back on the tour next year.”
Even this year, Venus has also addressed the growing speculation. After her run at the ATX Open earlier in 2026, Venus reacted to the idea of playing doubles with her sister.
“Oh man, wouldn’t that be cool?” she said. But she quickly followed it with a playful remark. “I never see her practicing, though.” When reporters mentioned videos of Serena hitting on court, Venus kept the joke going. “But I don’t know where she’s doing it.”
She then offered a more realistic perspective on what a comeback requires. “To come back, you have to get out there,” Venus remarked.
With rumors continuing to grow, fans are wondering if Serena could return to the sport soon. Some even speculate about a possible appearance at Wimbledon Championships this year.
What do you think, though?
All about her 12-carat diamond from Georgios Frangulis
Aryna Sabalenka’s new ring is a grand slam.
The world No. 1 tennis star, 27, is engaged to fiancé Georgios Frangulis. The Brazilian entrepreneur, 37, proposed on Mar. 3 in front of an elaborate display of roses and candles, presenting a custom 12-carat oval diamond ring set in platinum, accented with emeralds — Sabalenka’s favorite stone.
Sabalenka shared the news on Instagram, captioning her post, “You & me, forever ♾️ 3.3.26 💍🤍” and drawing congratulations from famous friends like David Beckham, Novak Djokovic and Coco Gauff.
The ring was designed by Isabela Grutman, founder and CEO of Isa Grutman Jewelry, who worked with Frangulis to perfect the piece.
“We spent months working on the design, selecting the stones, and perfecting every detail of the craftsmanship to make it truly special for Aryna,” Grutman told the Daily Mail. “What made it even more meaningful was Georgios’ idea to incorporate emeralds into the design, as it’s her favorite stone — a personal touch that makes the ring uniquely hers.”
Rustin Yasavolian, CEO at Masina Diamonds, told the publication the ring is worth an estimated $500,000 to $800,000.
That puts it in the company of some serious celebrity sparklers. Kourtney Kardashian’s oval-cut ring from Travis Barker — designed by Lorraine Schwartz and estimated at around 10 to 12 carats — is believed to be worth about $1 million, while Kris Jenner’s heart-cut diamond — which she debuted in 2023 — clocks in at about 10 carats and $1.2 million, experts told Page Six Style.
Sabalenka dropped a very public hint to Frangulis earlier this year, joking at the Brisbane International in January, “Thank you to my boyfriend … hopefully soon I can call you something else.”
The four-time Grand Slam champion nodded to the comment in a second post about the engagement, writing, “I can finally call him something else… FIANCÉ 💍”
The actual moment, however, clearly caught her off guard. In footage of the proposal, she’s wearing baggy jeans and a white T-shirt, along with flip-flops and a loose braid.
In a video posted by the WTA, the Belarusian tennis pro walks into practice carrying her dog and flashing her ring when someone behind the camera asks if she was surprised.
“I mean, obviously,” she said with a laugh. “Did you see my outfit and no-makeup look and flip-flops?”
When asked how she’s doing, she responds with a laugh, “Feeling shiny!”
Grutman also shared a behind-the-scenes Reel documenting her process, from inspecting the stone to reviewing CAD images.
“I’m analyzing this 12-carat oval diamond,” she said. “When I have the future husband pick the perfect ring and stones, I analyze first about the woman. What is she like? Is she more modern? Is she more classic?”
Sabalenka is currently competing at the Indian Wells Open in California with Frangulis cheering her on courtside — and now, a little extra sparkle on her left hand.
Ten top 25 players in Charleston Open preliminary field
Charleston’s Emma Navarro and defending champion Jessica Pegula, the world’s No. 5-ranked player, highlight the preliminary player field for the Credit One Charleston Open.
The Charleston Open, North America’s largest women’s-only professional tennis tournament, is March 28-April 5 on Daniel Island. The preliminary main draw is highlighted by 10 top 25 players, 11 Americans, three Grand Slam singles champions and four former Charleston champions. As the kick-off event of the clay season on the WTA Tour, the tournament was recently named the WTA 500 Tournament of the Year for the fourth consecutive year.
Headlining the field are Pegula; world No. 6, two-time 2025 Grand Slam finalist Amanda Anisimova; world two-time Charleston semifinalist Ekaterina Alexandrova (No. 11); 2020 Olympic Gold Medalist and 2022 Charleston champion Belinda Bencic (No. 12); 2025 Australian Open champion and 2019 Charleston champion Madison Keys (No. 15); 2025 Guadalajara champion and 18-year-old sensation Iva Jovic (No. 18); 2025 Monterrey champion Diana Shnaider (No. 20); and Merida champion Navarro (No. 25).
The 2026 lineup also reflects the strength of American tennis, with 11 U.S. players entered in the main draw, including Pegula, Anisimova, Keys, Sofia Kenin and Navarro, as well as Jovic, Peyton Stearns, Hailey Baptiste, McCartney Kessler, Caty McNally and Ashlyn Krueger.
Former champions Keys, Pegula, Bencic and Daria Kasatkina (2017) return to compete for another Charleston title.
Serena Williams Gets The Barbie Treatment For International Women’s Day
There are women who inspire a generation, and then there is Serena Williams, who has managed to inspire several.
Now she has the doll to prove it. In celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8th, Mattel has unveiled a one-of-a-kind Barbie Role Model doll made in the likeness of the tennis legend and entrepreneur, adding her to Barbie’s inaugural “Dream Team,” a global group of eight women recognized for breaking barriers in their fields.
The custom doll is part of a broader initiative Barbie is launching this month to spotlight the power of female role models. The Dream Team highlights women from around the world who are meant to serve as role models for the next generation. The idea is that when when girls see themselves reflected in success, it can shape what they believe is possible.
“I have always drawn inspiration from the powerful women in my life — from my mom, sisters, and daughters to the dolls in my toy box growing up,” Williams said.
“Now, I’m thrilled to be honored alongside this incredible group of female changemakers as part of the Barbie Dream Team. Just like so many women have empowered me to turn my fear into courage and doubt into confidence, I hope we can do the same by championing girls everywhere to pick up a racquet, become an entrepreneur, or do whatever ignites their passion and brings their dreams to life.”
The girl who grew up playing on public courts in Compton is now a Barbie. It doesn’t get more full-circle than that.
Williams is joined on the U.S. roster by Kellie Gerardi, a spaceflight researcher and science communicator. Together they’re part of a Dream Team that spans eight women across the globe, each honored with their own custom doll made in their likeness.
Mattel is also making a full month of it. Alongside the Dream Team announcement, the brand is rolling out new consumer products, a series of “Dream Days” deals, and the first-ever Barbie Dream Fest, a fan festival dedicated entirely to Barbie and its community.
Serena Williams already has 23 Grand Slam titles, a venture capital firm, and a growing business empire. Now she can add Barbie to the résumé. Safe to say, Serena has never had a slow season.
Where to watch today’s Paribas Open Tennis matches: Day 2 TV schedule, free streams
The 2026 Paribas Open tennis tournament rolls into Day 2 at Indian Wells featuring the next wave of first-round matches and the start of women’s doubles play. Day 2 of the tournament starts with continued first-round action in the men’s singles divisions with TV coverage on Tennis Channel and streaming on-demand.
How to watch Day 2 at the 2026 Paribas Open and top current offers to live stream on Tennis Channel:
When: Thursday, March 5 starting at 2 p.m. ET (11 a.m. PT)
Where: Indian Wells Tennis Garden, Indian Wells, Calif.
TV channels: Tennis Channel
Streaming on: FuboTV (free trial) | DirecTV (free trial) | SlingTV (low intro rate)
FuboTV (free trial): FuboTV offers the most extensive package of live sports with rates competitive with DirecTV. The FuboTV Pro ($48.99 first month), Elite ($53.99) and Deluxe ($73.99) all come with first-month discounts. Monthly rates rise to $73.99, $83.99 and $103.99 after the first-month discount.
DirecTV (free trial): DirecTV offers a 5-day free trial and a total of $30 off over the first three full months for the Choice Package, which includes 125-plus channels and access to ESPN Unlimited, a $29.99 standalone value featuring all ESPN channels and ESPN+.
SlingTV (low intro rate): First full month of streaming runs as low as $29.99 with current offer for 50% off Sling’s Orange & Blue Plan. Day passes are also available for 24 hours ($4.99), as well as three-day ($9.99) and seven-day access ($14.99).
The full schedule for Thursday, March 5 at the 2026 Paribas Open can be found below:
PARIBAS OPEN TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS 2026
TV & STREAMING SCHEDULE: THURSDAY, MARCH 5
Times listed in ET and subject to change
MEN’S SINGLES
FIRST ROUND
2:00 PM: Alexander Shevchenko vs. Sho Shimabukuro – Stadium 5
2:00 PM: Kamil Majchrzak vs. Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard – Stadium 4
2:00 PM: Terence Atmane vs. Grigor Dimitrov – Stadium 1
3:30 PM: Chun-Hsin Tseng vs. Sebastian Baez – Stadium 5
3:30 PM: Jacob Fearnley vs. Damir Dzumhur – Stadium 4
4:00 PM: Hubert Hurkacz vs. Aleksandar Kovacevic – Stadium 2
5:00 PM: Valentin Royer vs. Benjamin Bonzi – Stadium 5
5:00 PM: Fabian Marozsan vs. Roberto Bautista Agut – Stadium 4
5:30 PM: Daniel Merida Aguilar vs. Alex Michelsen – Stadium 2
6:00 PM: Juan Manuel Cerundolo vs. Botic Van De Zandschulp – Stadium 5
6:00 PM: Nuno Borges vs. Emilio Nava – Stadium 3
6:30 PM: Alejandro Tabilo vs. Rafael Jodar – Stadium 6
7:30 PM: Francesco Maestrelli vs. Rinky Hijikata – Stadium 5
7:30 PM: Matteo Arnaldi vs. Mackenzie McDonald – Stadium 3
9:00 PM: Sebastian Korda vs. Francisco Comesana – Stadium 1
10:30 PM: Michael Zheng vs. Vit Kopriva – Stadium 2
WOMEN’S SINGLES
FIRST ROUND
2:00 PM: Lanlana Tararudee vs. Sonay Kartal – Stadium 7
2:00 PM: Marie Bouzkova vs. Taylor Townsend – Stadium 3
2:00 PM: Magda Linette vs. Ashlyn Krueger – Stadium 2
2:00 PM: Laura Siegemund vs. Petra Marcinko – Stadium 9
3:30 PM: Elsa Jacquemot vs. Anna Bondar – Stadium 9
3:30 PM: Francesca Jones vs. Kayla Day – Stadium 7
3:30 PM: Donna Vekic vs. Tereza Valentova – Stadium 3
4:00 PM: Diane Parry vs. Venus Williams – Stadium 1
5:00 PM: Cristina Bucsa vs. Darja Vidmanova – Stadium 7
5:00 PM: Storm Hunter vs. Magdalena Frech – Stadium 9
5:00 PM: Varvara Gracheva vs. Lilli Tagger – Stadium 3
5:30 PM: Katerina Siniakova vs. Sofia Kenin – Stadium 1
6:00 PM: Katie Volynets vs. Rebecca Sramkova – Stadium 4
7:30 PM: Emiliana Arango vs. Hailey Baptiste – Stadium 4
9:00 PM: Antonia Ruzic vs. Jennifer Brady – Stadium 2
10:30 PM: Peyton Stearns vs. Solana Sierra – Stadium 1
WOMEN’S DOUBLES
FIRST ROUND
TBD: Mirra Andreeva / Victoria Mboko vs. Elise Mertens / Zhang Shuai – Round 1
TBD: Ulrikke Eikeri / Jiang Xinyu vs. Gabriela Dabrowski / Luisa Stefani – Round 1
2:00 PM: Guo Hanyu / Kristina Mladenovic vs. Linda Noskova / Diana Shnaider – Stadium 6
3:30 PM: Sara Errani / Jasmine Paolini vs. Jaqueline Cristian / Clara Tauson – Stadium 6
5:00 PM: McCartney Kessler / Jessica Pegula vs. Eri Hozumi / Fang-Hsien Wu – Stadium 6
6:30 PM: Lyudmyla Kichenok / Desirae Krawczyk vs. Tereza Mihalikova / Olivia Nicholls – Stadium 7
6:30 PM: Hao-Ching Chan / Janice Tjen vs. Andreja Klepac / Katarzyna Piter – Stadium 9
‘I Poured My Soul Into It. I’m Hurt’: Juan Carlos Ferrero Is Ready to Talk
Seven years. Six Grand Slams. One of the most celebrated coach-player relationships in tennis history. And then, on December 17th, 2025, seventeen days before Christmas, three weeks before the Australian Open, a social media post ended it all.
Carlos Alcaraz announced the split in warm language: “Thank you for turning childhood dreams into realities. We started this journey when I was barely a kid, and throughout all this time, you’ve accompanied me on an incredible journey, on and off the court.” Juan Carlos Ferrero replied in the language of a man who had not wanted it to end. His final line, buried in an otherwise dignified statement, said everything: “I would have liked to continue.”
That single sentence opened the door. What followed was weeks of leaks, speculation, coded statements, and pointed silences. A very Spanish drama conducted almost entirely in subtext. And now, with Indian Wells underway and Alcaraz marching through the draw on a 12-match winning streak, Ferrero is ready to close that door properly.
He is set to appear on the Spanish television program El Cafelito this Thursday at 3:30 PM to present, in his own words, his full account of what happened. The trailer alone has already reignited discussion. Ferrero told host Josep Pedrerol: “I’m very happy to have been able to tell my story. Often, a phrase or two is enough to spark speculation, and these interviews allow for in-depth discussions.”
So what do we actually know before he speaks?
Ferrero to Speak Out on Alcaraz Split
The Timeline and the Money Question
The bare facts are these: the 2025 season ended, contract renewal talks began, and no agreement was reached. Spanish radio journalist Javier de Diego reported at the time that “the relationship broke down two days ago when no agreement was reached in the negotiations for the new contract.” But anyone waiting for a clear financial explanation was quickly disabused. Ferrero pushed back on the money framing almost immediately. “There’s been talk that I was asking for more, and, indeed, they always showed me consideration by giving me a very high percentage for those early years,” he said in his first interview with Marca. “I tried to make it clear that money wasn’t one of the problems, nor the reason why I was part of this project.”
What, then?
Multiple threads have been pulled. The most consistent theme running through every account points to Alcaraz’s father and the family’s tightening grip on decision-making. A source close to the Alcaraz camp told CLAY and RG Media that “there were significant disagreements between Ferrero and Alcaraz’s father about how to manage the player’s career.” Alcaraz’s first childhood coach, Carlos Santos, was blunter still: “Carlos’s father is the one who’s really in charge. Carlitos has nothing to do with it. I mean, Carlitos would have continued for as long as Juan Carlos wanted.”
Ferrero himself, in his Marca interview, gestured at something deeper and more mundane. “When you spend that much time together, there’s always some wear and tear,” he said, and acknowledged that certain issues were never fully discussed. “Perhaps they could have been resolved if we had sat down to talk, but in the end we didn’t.” The most pointed detail he revealed was that he never directly told Alcaraz he would walk away. He assumed the player knew through his camp. The father-as-intermediary dynamic implied throughout was not lost on anyone reading carefully.
Ferrero described a breakdown in negotiations that shifted “from the court to the boardroom,” involving what he called “non-sporting clauses”. Toni Nadal, characteristically direct, refused to accept the framing of Alcaraz as passive in all this. “I understand that nothing is done without Carlos’ approval, of course,” he said. Former player Pablo Carreno Busta drew the parallel many had been making privately, comparing the split to Rafael Nadal’s eventual separation from his uncle Toni. The suggestion being that some coaching relationships simply reach a natural ceiling regardless of how much they produce.
The After Effects
Alcaraz’s public response has been careful and warm, but not illuminating. At his Melbourne press conference, he called it “a mutual decision” and said, “No decision is made without discussing it together.” Later, after winning the Australian Open, his seventh Grand Slam and his first without Ferrero in the box, he acknowledged having experienced “certain doubts” after reading negative comments following the decision, before insisting: “We saw that we needed a change.”
The result is a picture that is legible even without all its details filled in. A coach who gave everything and wanted to keep going. An inner circle that had grown powerful enough to make that impossible. A player caught somewhere in between who said the right things publicly and then went out and won a Grand Slam.
Some observers have noted a subtle shift in behaviour since the split. Ferrero had insisted on fierce discipline and focus between points. In Doha last week, Alcaraz lashed out at a chair umpire over a time violation, something that would likely have been handled differently with his former coach watching from the box.
None of this diminishes what they built. Six major titles from a partnership that began when Alcaraz was fifteen years old, discovered and developed at Ferrero’s academy in Villena. It is arguably the most successful coaching project in men’s tennis this decade, measured purely by its results. Ferrero conducted that first Marca interview at the academy where it all began, the same facilities where Alcaraz was shaped as a junior. The detail is almost too symbolic to be accidental.
He sits with an open wound and a story not yet fully told. Thursday, he tells it.
Tras ganar el Abierto de Australia, Carlos Alcaraz arranca su participación en BNP Paribas Open
El número uno del mundo, Carlos Alcaraz, debutará este viernes en BNP Paribas Open de Indian Wells Tennis Garden en busca de conquistar un tercer título en el desierto californiano.
El español, reciente campeón del Australian Open 2026, enfrentará al ex número tres del mundo Grigor Dimitrov en la ronda de 64 del torneo.
En el mismo lado del cuadro también aparece el serbio Novak Djokovic, quien podría reencontrarse con Alcaraz antes de la final del torneo, tras haber sido su rival en la final del Abierto de Australia este año.
Alcaraz se enfrentó a Dimitrov la temporada pasada en este mismo torneo. El búlgaro solamente logró arrebatarle dos sets en la cuarta ronda, aunque el español terminó avanzando a semifinales, donde cayó ante el eventual campeón, el británico Jack Draper. Dimitrov acostumbra a tener buenas actuaciones en Indian Wells, con una semifinal en 2021 y cuartos de final en 2022.
“Me encanta el ambiente aquí”, dijo Alcaraz, de 22 años y campeón del torneo en 2023 y 2024 previo al torneo. “Trato de jugar mi mejor tenis cuando realmente importa”.
El miércoles se reunieron cientos de seguidores para rodear su sesión de práctica por la tarde.
Entre los principales favoritos también figura el italiano Jannik Sinner, aunque nunca ha alcanzado las semifinales en Indian Wells. Alcaraz y Sinner se encuentran en lados opuestos del cuadro, lo que abre la posibilidad de un enfrentamiento en la final.
Alcaraz avanzó automáticamente a la segunda ronda por su condición de cabeza de serie y ahora enfrentará a Dimitrov, quien venció al francés Terence Atmane en su debut.
Man convicted in deadly shooting outside East Sacramento tennis club
A Sacramento County jury has convicted a man of first-degree murder in a deadly shooting that happened three and a half years ago in the city’s Fab 40s neighborhood.
DeSean Brasser shot and killed Charles Starzynski, 70, on October 20, 2022, outside the Sutter Lawn Tennis Club. The Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office said the jury also found true that Brasser robbed Starzynski.
That day, Starzynski had gone to an ATM in Midtown Sacramento to make business deposits for a local food chain, prosecutors said. Brasser, who was a passenger in a vehicle nearby driven by another suspect, spotted Starzynski walking back to his vehicle and placing a blue bank bag in his trunk.
Brasser followed Starzynski as he drove away and into the parking area behind the Sutter Lawn Tennis Club. That is when law enforcement officials said Brasser, armed with a gun, approached Starzynski as he was standing at the rear of the vehicle with the trunk open.
Prosecutors said a witness heard Brasser say
Fatigue a factor as early matches begin at Indian Wells
The early rounds of the BNP Paribas Open began Wednesday, with top seeds slated to start play Friday during the 12-day ATP and WTPA Master 1000 tournament.
A busy stretch of the tennis season reaches another gear at Indian Wells Tennis Garden, the second largest outdoor tennis stadium in the world.
While many consider it the “fifth Grand Slam” because of its elite player field, amenities and equal prize money for men and women, professionals acknowledge the tournament is part of a stressful stretch on the tennis calendar.
Indian Wells is followed by the Miami Open, another two-week Master 1000 tournament. The tour stops are known as the “Sunshine Double.”
Some players made the short trip from Indian Wells to Las Vegas this past weekend to participate in the MGM Grand Slam, an exhibition designed to help players ramp up for back-to-back tournaments.
American Reilly Opelka, a 6-foot–11 pro, said managing fatigue after a series of tournaments before hitting Indian Wells has altered his practice and play in exhibition matches, including a loss to 19-year-old Brazilian Joao Fonseca in Las Vegas.
“Normally in any kind of competition, you get excited and play with a pressure point … but you don’t feel this when you are practicing,” Opelka said.
“I was trying to feel like this a few days ago while practicing with … [Tommy Paul,] but instead we got tired and hungry. … Tthat usually doesn’t happen. We just decided to stop and go to eat somewhere.”
Paul said despite the decision to cut practice short, he feels fresh for the upcoming events.
“I started the year pretty well and for Americans, we are excited for the Sunshine Double,” Paul said.
Casper Rudd lost to Opelka during the first round of the Las Vegas exhibition. The Norwegian also lost a week ago during the first round of the Acapulco Open, falling to Chinese qualifier Yibing Wu in straight sets.
Rudd said he felt “extremely tired” after the Australian Open in January.
Rancho Palo Verdes resident Taylor Fritz, ranked No. 7 in the world, said the best way to prepare yourself for grueling tour schedule is “putting [in] the time, work and repetition.”
“… Be there, be focused on the quality that you are doing,” said Fritz, a 28-year-old who won the Indian Wells title in 2022.
While some players are guarding against burnout, others struggled to even reach California. Some players who live in Dubai, including Russians Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev, have to contend with closed airspace triggered by the U.S. and Israel bombing Iran.
The ATP announced Wednesday that, “the vast majority of players who were in Dubai have successfully departed today on selected flights.”
No. 23 Florida falls flat against No. 4 LSU, endsing three
The Gators have posted a dominant showing in their spring season, most recently riding a three-match winning streak.
Florida hoped to capitalize on that confidence and bring home another victory in its matchup against the Tigers but struggled against its first top 5 team of the season.
The No. 23 Florida Gators (7-2, 2-1 SEC) lost to the No. 4 LSU Tigers (8-3, 1-2 SEC) 4-0 Thursday evening at the LSU Tennis Complex.
Doubles play began rough for the Gators, battling a team that has secured the doubles point in seven matches across the season.
Florida’s duo of India Houghton and Lucie Pawlak was first to fall. Despite coming in on a high, with Houghton earning SEC player of the week and Pawlak SEC co-freshman of the week, the pair couldn’t hold out. The match ended in a clean 6-0 loss to LSU’s Alexia Marginean and Addison Lanton in less than half an hour.
The junior-freshman pair of Valery Gynina and Brooke Black suffered an unusual fate in their doubles match. Previously undefeated, the Gators couldn’t clinch the victory this time against LSU’s Cadence Brace and Carolina Kuhl, losing 6-4.
The final doubles match was retired since LSU secured the doubles point. The No. 19 pair of Xinyi Nong and Nikola Daubnerova led No. 9 Kayla Cross and Ella McDonald 5-4.
The Gators tried to take control of the matchup in singles, but again, the Tigers put up too strong a fight.
Pawlak carried much momentum from last week after winning the decisive game for the victory against Oklahoma. However, the Gator suffered a tough 6-0, 6-2 loss, awarding LSU its first singles point.
Houghton’s match proved equally as difficult. The California native fell 6-2, 6-1 to No. 52 Cadence Brace, just days after the Gator had entered the ITA rankings in the No. 103 spot.
Following suit with the rest of her team, No. 26 Gabia Paskauskas lost to LSU’s Ella McDonald 6-2, 6-3, giving the Tigers their match-ending 4-0 lead.
With the rest of the matches retired, Black was the only Gator who seemed to have had a chance. She held the advantage over Kuhl, going 6-4, 4-2. The Gator freshman proved why she carries a five-game winning streak, but didn’t have the opportunity to close it out with the swift LSU victory.
The loss to LSU marks the second SEC defeat for the Gators, taking their conference record to 2-2.
Florida will continue its road stretch against Ole Miss on Saturday at 2 p.m. in Oxford, Mississippi.
8x PGA Tour Winner Shares Worrying Health Update at Arnold Palmer Invitational That Harm His Career
Billy Horschel has spent six months convincing himself he can beat a timeline his own doctors set at one to two years. Thursday’s resurgence at Bay Hill suggests the game is returning. But his post-round admission revealed he had been holding back the full picture of his injury all along.
“Let’s just say the hip didn’t feel really good this morning. It was tired, it was sore, it hurt a little bit,” he said candidly to the media. “It’s a day-to-day thing. I don’t think I’ve given the full scope of the hip because I don’t want people to think that if I’m not playing well right now, the hip is the issue. But there was a lot of damage.”
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Billy Horschel underwent surgery in May 2025 after withdrawing from the Zurich Classic due to a lower-body injury. Doctors repaired a massive labrum tear, shaved bone to open up the hip capsule, and addressed two microfractures. His full recovery was projected at one to two years, but the golfer was back competing in under six months.
He returned to the DP World Tour’s BMA PGA Championship in September. His own medical team took notice and was shocked to see him return to the competitive greens so quickly. Horschel started 2026 without full signature event status or automatic major championship exemptions, putting focus on his comeback performance, which was clearly evident at Bay Hill.
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Thursday’s 69 at Bay Hill was his best opening round at the Arnold Palmer Invitational since a 67 in 2022, a tournament where he finished runner-up to Scottie Scheffler. He sits T9 at -3, hitting 13 of 18 greens despite finding only 7 of 14 fairways, all while managing a hip that forced him to question whether he could even play during warm-ups.
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The gap to the lead is significant. Daniel Berger dismantled Bay Hill for a 63 under unusually calm conditions, one stroke off the all-time tournament record. But Horschel got into this 72-player field on a sponsor’s exemption. He had missed the cut here in both 2023 and 2025, but now he is already positioned to reach the weekend. For a player who missed three of the four majors in 2025 due to the injury, simply competing at this level this soon is the story.
“The game’s building; it’s getting better,” he said. “I just need more reps, I just need to groove it in a little bit more.”
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With microfractures typically taking one to two years to fully heal and his return coming in under six months, Horschel is still very much in the middle of his recovery. How he manages the next few rounds at Bay Hill will be as telling as anything he puts on the scorecard.
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The hip won’t get worse, but it still needs time
In the same interview, Horschel made clear after his round that competing at Bay Hill carries no risk of further damage. With his medical team giving him the green light, the decision to keep playing was straightforward. What remains is not a question of safety but purely one of how long the healing process takes.
Despite returning in under six months, Horschel was direct about where things stand with his surgeon’s original timeline. He drew a parallel to his 2010 wrist surgery, where he was back playing four months post-op but spent a full year managing swelling and tightness after rounds. The hip, he said, is tracking similarly.
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The structural damage Horschel dealt with was significant. Beyond the labrum tear, he had two microfractures and bone-on-bone impingement that required reshaping. His surgeon shaved down the bone to create more internal rotation, moving him from three degrees to a more functional range, something that actually improves his backswing long term.
What Billy Horschel is managing now is not pain in the traditional sense but inconsistency. Some days the hip loads and responds the way he needs it to, other days it does not. That variability, not the injury itself, is what makes his day-to-day competition a genuine test of both patience and adaptability.
Blanchet leads Puerto Rico as John Daly’s son makes PGA Tour debut with a 70
RIO GRANDE, Puerto Rico (AP) — John Daly II had an easier time, and a far easier golf course, than his father in his PGA Tour debut. The 22-year-old son of John Daly opened with a 2-under 70 in the Puerto Rico Open on Thursday, where the kids were all the rage and Chandler Blanchet wound up with the lead.
Blanchet bogeyed his first hole and that was his only mistake. He followed with nine birdies for an 8-under 64, his lowest round on the PGA Tour for a one-shot lead over Gordon Sargent, the former top college golfer who has struggled the last few years.
“It was good,” Daly said. “Feel like I left a few out there, but I made it up with just a couple good saves and nice chip-in on 16.”
John Daly, the former PGA and British Open champion, made his first PGA Tour-sanctioned start nearly 40 years ago. But that was Shinnecock Hills — not Grand Reserve — and it was the 1986 U.S. Open, not an opposite-field event in Puerto Rico. Daly shot 88 that first round.
His son was not the only player getting attention. Blades Brown, the 18-year-old who played in the final group with Scottie Scheffler when the world’s No. 1 player won The American Express, opened with a 69. It was his 16th score in the 60s in his 34 career rounds on the PGA Tour.
Miles Russell, the 17-year-old from Florida and among the top amateurs in the world had a 71. The other young prospect, Zhou Yanhan of China, shot 72. The 17-year-old Zhou had seven wins on the China Tour last year.
Blanchet earned his PGA Tour card through the Korn Ferry Tour last year, winning twice, including the circuit’s Tour Championship. But it has been a slow start to his first season in the big leagues, missing the cut in all five tournaments he has played.
He hopes there’s plenty of learning that comes with those weekends off, and Blanchet said he looked forward to facing more challenges, such as dealing with short putts he misses. He wants to get mentally stronger to deal with that.
“I missed a 5-footer right on the first hole and I looked at my caddie and he said, ‘This is our test.’ Handled it well,” Blanchet said. “Then made some good birdies over the next few holes. Yeah, really solid day.”
Eugenio Chacarra, who began his pro career on Saudi-backed LIV Golf in 2022 and became the first player from the rival league to a get sponsor exemption on the PGA Tour, opened with a 73.
The winner of the Puerto Rico gets into The Players Championship and the PGA Championship, along with a two-year exemption on tour. But it does not qualify for the Masters.
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Blanchet leads Puerto Rico as John Daly’s son makes PGA Tour debut with a 70
RIO GRANDE, Puerto Rico (AP) — John Daly II had an easier time, and a far easier golf course, than his father in his PGA Tour debut. The 22-year-old son of John Daly opened with a 2-under 70 in the Puerto Rico Open on Thursday, where the kids were all the rage and Chandler Blanchet wound up with the lead.
Blanchet bogeyed his first hole and that was his only mistake. He followed with nine birdies for an 8-under 64, his lowest round on the PGA Tour for a one-shot lead over Gordon Sargent, the former top college golfer who has struggled the last few years.
“It was good,” Daly said. “Feel like I left a few out there, but I made it up with just a couple good saves and nice chip-in on 16.”
John Daly, the former PGA and British Open champion, made his first PGA Tour-sanctioned start nearly 40 years ago. But that was Shinnecock Hills — not Grand Reserve — and it was the 1986 U.S. Open, not an opposite-field event in Puerto Rico. Daly shot 88 that first round.
His son was not the only player getting attention. Blades Brown, the 18-year-old who played in the final group with Scottie Scheffler when the world’s No. 1 player won The American Express, opened with a 69. It was his 16th score in the 60s in his 34 career rounds on the PGA Tour.
Miles Russell, the 17-year-old from Florida and among the top amateurs in the world had a 71. The other young prospect, Zhou Yanhan of China, shot 72. The 17-year-old Zhou had seven wins on the China Tour last year.
Blanchet earned his PGA Tour card through the Korn Ferry Tour last year, winning twice, including the circuit’s Tour Championship. But it has been a slow start to his first season in the big leagues, missing the cut in all five tournaments he has played.
He hopes there’s plenty of learning that comes with those weekends off, and Blanchet said he looked forward to facing more challenges, such as dealing with short putts he misses. He wants to get mentally stronger to deal with that.
“I missed a 5-footer right on the first hole and I looked at my caddie and he said, ‘This is our test.’ Handled it well,” Blanchet said. “Then made some good birdies over the next few holes. Yeah, really solid day.”
Eugenio Chacarra, who began his pro career on Saudi-backed LIV Golf in 2022 and became the first player from the rival league to a get sponsor exemption on the PGA Tour, opened with a 73.
The winner of the Puerto Rico gets into The Players Championship and the PGA Championship, along with a two-year exemption on tour. But it does not qualify for the Masters.
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Daly’s son shoots 70 in PGA Tour debut; Blanchet leads Puerto Rico
RIO GRANDE, Puerto Rico — John Daly Jr. had an easier time, and a far easier golf course, than his father in his PGA Tour debut. The 22-year-old son of John Daly opened with a 2-under 70 in the Puerto Rico Open on Thursday, where the kids were all the rage and Chandler Blanchet wound up with the lead.
Blanchet bogeyed his first hole and that was his only mistake. He followed with nine birdies for an 8-under 64, his lowest round on the PGA Tour for a one-shot lead over Gordon Sargent, the former top college golfer who has struggled the last few years.
Justin Thomas Shares True Feelings After Upsetting Start at $20M PGA Tour Event Post Back Surgery: ‘Suck’
Justin Thomas returned to the PGA Tour at the 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational after five months away. He shot a 79, tied for last, and finished seven over par. The event is a $20 million Signature Event with every top-15 player in the world present. There is no margin for error for players still regaining form.
During the post-round presser, Thomas was asked about the weakest part of his game. He named putting first, but also admitted his concentration was lacking.
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“I putted terrible today. I had a hard time gauging the speed. But just a lot of little stuff. I could not keep my concentration for the life of me on the back nine.”
Thomas had to step away from shots, not due to a swing issue, but because his process was not in place. The lack of competitive repetition over five months was clear. He said the 18-hole pro-am the day before was his first time recently spending that long on a course while trying to maintain focus.
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“I would kind of walk into the shot and have no idea what I was even trying to do. It was good to play an 18-hole pro-am yesterday for me to get used to being out here that long and trying to concentrate that long. I haven’t done that in a while.”
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The back nine showed the gap. Thomas made double bogeys on 11 and 15, six bogeys in total, and no birdies on the inward half. He shot 41 to finish. He lost nearly four strokes to the field on the greens. His physical game was solid, ranking fourth in Strokes Gained: Around the Green. In his TGL appearance the previous week, he was driving over 300 yards and finding fairways. The issue was not physical, but a lack of sharpness.
A reporter mentioned Xander Schauffele’s 2025 return to Bay Hill. Thomas did not offer optimism.
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“Yeah, it kind of sucks, to be honest. It is what it is. I said to Rev walking up 18, I know it’s been a while since we played, but these scores are a lot lower than I thought they would be. It got pretty dicey this afternoon.”
Thomas confirmed his API start following his TGL appearance, where Atlanta Drive GC secured a 5-2 win. In his post-match interview, he made it clear he was not setting high expectations, only that he was glad to be back competing. The PGA Tour shared the clip, drawing over 600 likes and a strong response from fans welcoming his return.
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“Yeah, no, it’s great. Obviously I’ve missed it. Been a long time, but good to feel the juices — competitiveness, adrenaline, and just competing.”
Thomas is not the first elite player to find Bay Hill an unforgiving re-entry point, and the 2025 leaderboard offers a reference worth examining.
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Xander Schauffele’s 2025 Arnold Palmer Invitational return offers a familiar blueprint
Schauffele returned to the 2025 Arnold Palmer Invitational after six weeks out with an intercostal strain and a cartilage tear. He had only managed 27 holes of practice, including nine on a par-3 course. His opening round was a 77, and he fell to six over through ten holes before settling. He described his decision to come back at Bay Hill as ‘a bit of a masochist.’
He made the cut at four over, keeping his consecutive cuts streak alive at 58. On Sunday, he shot 69, gaining strokes off the tee and around the greens. He left Orlando without a win but with a clear baseline. The following week, he was in contention at The Players.
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Thomas has a tougher task. Daniel Berger leads the 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational at nine under after a 63. Ludvig Aberg and Collin Morikawa are at six under. The projected cut is around two or three over. Thomas needs a strong round on Friday to make the weekend. Schauffele showed the course can be managed, but the numbers are clear. There is no margin for another poor round.
Justin Thomas laments PGA Tour return at Arnold Palmer: ‘It sucks’
The PGA Tour is at Bay Hill Club & Lounge for the Arnold Palmer Invitational this week. The Signature Event features most of the world’s best golfers, including World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and fan-favorite Justin Thomas.
While Scheffler seems to be in good form, as usual, Thomas was making his 2026 debut on Thursday. To say it did not go well would be an understatement.
The two-time major winner signed for a 7-over 79. His round was littered with six bogeys and two double-bogeys, as he is tied for dead last with Aldrich Potgieter and Pierceson Coody.
Afterwards, Thomas did not mince words when discussing his opening-round play.
“It kinda sucks, to be honest,” Thomas said.
“Obviously not how I expected it to go. But the rust aspect, kind of unfortunately, was a little bit of what I anticipated.
“It is what it is,” he said. “It got pretty dicey this afternoon. The greens had a bit of a Friday afternoon kind of feel to ‘em. But everybody else is out here playing the same place I am; they just played a lot better. So, yeah, go try to figure a couple of things out and just do better tomorrow.”
The Arnold Palmer Invitational is one of the few signature events that retains a 36-hole cut. So, JT will be need to turn things around quickly if he wants to play the weekend. Only the top 50 plus ties will play after Friday.
But the two-time PGA Championship victor likely had higher hopes for this week.
Thomas had been ramping up his game, playing Tiger and Rory’s TGL for the Atlanta Drive in recent weeks. But there is clearly a lot of work to do.
“I putted terrible today. I had a hard time gauging the speed. But just a lot of little stuff. I could not keep my concentration for the life of me on the back nine. I just had a couple times I had to back off because I just would kind of walk into the shot and have no idea what I was even trying to do.”
He’ll go out in the early wave Friday morning at 7:30 am ET for his second round.
Jon Rahm responds to Rory McIlroy’s snipe amid PGA Tour, LIV Golf feud
There has been nothing but bad blood in professional golf ever since the LIV Tour has tried to establish itself as significant competition for the PGA and Europe’s DP World Tour. The nastiness reared its head again this week as superstars Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm have taken turns sniping at each other.
Rahm has gone on record saying he didn’t think that the conditions imposed by the DP World Tour on LIV players who wanted to return and gain eligibility for the Ryder Cup were fair. Those conditions include playing in six DP World Tour tournaments, paying all fines and dropping all appeals.
Rahm said he didn’t think he should be forced to play more than four DP tournaments, and that’s why he did not accept the conditions. “I just don’t like the situation,” Rahm said, per the Associated Press. “I think we should be able to freely play where we want and have the choice to play where we want and not be dictated what we do.”
McIlroy thought Rahm was simply whining and that he was asking for special treatment. He also said that he thought the deal offered by DP was generous, and so did eight LIV players who accepted the deal. “Again, there’s a reason that eight of the nine took it, because they probably think the same thing. And one guy thinks a little differently, and that’s a shame.”
The back-and-forth continued when McIlroy said he didn’t think Rahm wanted to play at LIV Tour stop in South Africa, but he was going because he had to. Rahm countered by saying he did want to play in South Africa because the stop was “lively and rowdy.”
Xander Schauffele’s Honest Reaction to PGA Tour Pro’s Stunning First Round at $20M Event
The Bay Hill Club and Lodge is known for its challenging greens. But Daniel Berger managed to score a nine-under 63 in the opening round of the $20 million Arnold Palmer Invitational. But what did Xander Schauffele think of the performance?
Following his four-under 68 performance, Schauffele admitted to being surprised by Berger’s nine-under score. He was stunned when the media person asked him if he was surprised Berger recovered from whatever kept him away from the pro-am.
“Lucky him,” Schauffele said. “I mean, I had a great time with Doug at 7 p.m. last night, so that was awesome.”
But reflecting on Berger’s 63, the world number 10 claimed it’s a “really good” score. For such a score at the Bay Hill Club and Lodge, nearly everything has to go right.
Schauffele said, “I don’t know what the next best score is, but assuming a lot. He must have hit 16 greens and birdied all the par-5s and did some extracurricular with the putter.”
Even Berger agreed a little bit with Schauffele. But for the golfer on top of the Arnold Palmer Invitational leaderboard, things felt like he was in the U.S. Open.
Daniel Berger agrees with Xander Schauffele about the putts
“It has that U.S. Open kind of feel to it,” Berger told the media following the stunning round. “I think the course is just going to get tougher as the week goes on. The greens are going to get firmer. … So yeah, just hit it in the fairway and try to make as many putts as you can.”
Back in 2018, at the Shinnecock Hills, Berger hit a 66. He went from 11 shots to a tie for the lead. But this time, he made nine birdies, and eight of them were within 10 feet. The bogey-free performance also gave him a three-shot lead.
Following Berger closely, Collin Morikawa and Ludvig Alberg tied for the second spot with a score of six-under 66. But can Daniel Berger maintain the lead in the upcoming rounds?
‘No Excuse to Make That Many Mistakes’: Justin Thomas Reflects on His First Round Since Surgery
Bay Hill Club and Lodge did not exactly give Justin Thomas an enthusiastic welcome on his long-awaited return to the PGA Tour after back surgery, and the former world number one faced perhaps his most challenging moments at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
Thomas’ Opening Round on Thursday was a very harsh awakening. Moreover, with the amount of competitive rust he had, it was never going to be easy for him, and his comeback round really disintegrated very quickly on the card.
Recalling his mental lapses, Thomas stated there is “no excuse to make that many mistakes”. At the end of the first day, he finished with a disappointing score of 7 over par, which put him in a tie for last on the scoreboard with a 79.
The most evident rust in Thomas’s game was on the putting surface. Thomas admitted he had “putted terribly” as he struggled with the pace of the greens, which ultimately crushed any chances he had of salvaging a respectable score.
Six bogeys and two double bogeys cluttered his scorecard, and the only bright spot was a mere three birdies for the entire round. On the back nine, the focus was on strategy, but it was the concentration that became his toughest battle.
A Mentally Taxing Return to Competition
Thomas likened his challenging return to the course to Xander Schauffele’s return last season. He mentioned that picking this “dicey” course to start “kind of sucks”. The course has been getting more and more difficult as time goes on.
Despite the tough course conditions, Thomas did not use them as an excuse. He mentioned that some of the other players handled the conditions a lot better than he did. “Everybody else is out here playing the same place I am”, he mentioned.
His top priority is recovery. He said he does not have the “mental capacity” to hit more balls. Instead, he will rest this evening to recover.
With the cut line approaching, Thomas needs to play well to reach it. He intends to improve his score in his first tournament back on Friday. The tournament’s opening hurdle is in front of him, and he will have to be at his best to clear it.
‘Going to Go to the Beach’: John Daly’s Son Gives Classic Daly Answer at His PGA Tour Debut
It seems like John Daly II has inherited his father’s laid-back attitude after a good round of golf.
After finishing at T21 with a score of two-under 70 at the 2026 Puerto Rico Open (his PGA Tour debut), Daly was asked if there was anything he was going to work on to keep the momentum going for the upcoming rounds. Most young golfers would go to the range, work on the wedges, or study the course. But Daly isn’t like most golfers.
The 22-year-old PGA Tour debutant said, “I would say I’d go hit balls, but I’m a little tired. So I’m just probably going to go to the beach and probably do absolutely nothing for the rest of the day.”
It’s something that John Daly would have said. The two-time major champion has little regard for what other professional golfers are doing and does whatever he thinks. Back in 2015, via USA Today, the 59-year-old acknowledged his shape and said, “All these kids work out. I don’t work out. I put out.”
Despite his relaxed and laid-back personality, John Daly is one of the most loved golfers in the world. But when it comes to golf, he’s one of the strictest judges. And his son seems to have picked up on that as well.
John Daly II Assesses His Debut Round
When asked to assess his first round at the Grand Reserve Golf Club, Daly admitted, “It was good. Got off to a good start, made a nice birdie on 1. Solid up-and-down on 2, made about a 20-footer for par, which is nice, settled me in.”
“And then just hit some good shots. Feel like I left a few out there, but I made it up with just a couple good saves and nice chip-in on 16.”
Like his father, Daly was relaxed, honest, and uninterested in pretending. After completing his first 18 rounds on the PGA Tour with four birdies, he can certainly expect to rise higher in the upcoming rounds.
But can John Daly II pick up on his father’s unconventional swings and make it to the top of the leaderboard?
Roger Penske’s Star Claps Back at Kevin Harvick with 6-Word Jab as Stern Plea Falls Deaf
Roger Penske’s IndyCar driver Pato O’Ward and his aversion to NASCAR seem to know no bounds. Earlier, the Papaya driver was highly skeptical of the double-header weekends. In his eyes, it is something that strips away IndyCar’s spotlight. When SPEED on FOX host Kevin Harvick tried to correct him about the same thing, he wasn’t convinced. Instead, he gave back to him passive-aggressively.
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Pato O’Ward shares unwilling message about NASCAR collaboration
During their latest episode, the duo tried to reason with O’Ward about his intentions with the sport. Buxton went first, as he said:
“IndyCar and NASCAR doubleheaders are a great idea because it shouldn’t be about anyone other than the fans. It has to be about what’s right for them and how the championship can maximize welcoming new fans to a racing product that we all adore.”
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Harvick agreed and tried to reassure Pato O’Ward of his role as an entertainer for the fans of the sport.
“We have, I would say, the most educated race fans in our country that love sprint car racing; they love midgets, they love NASCAR, and they love IndyCar. That’s why this weekend is important to American motorsports.”
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Buxton also recounted that since NASCAR had the better momentum, and that it was naturally more popular than IndyCar. He’s right about that on every count. Michael Jordan’s lawsuit brought NASCAR to a bigger audience, albeit in a negative manner. But the sport has made a successful turnaround since then and is now widely popular among the public.
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Most of all, Jordan is becoming the biggest PR entity for NASCAR. His team 23XI Racing has won three races in a row, and through his interviews, fans are flocking to the tracks to watch NASCAR.
This year, NASCAR and IndyCar are trying to give fans more and more of an American racing spectacle. First, they collaborated on Sunday for the Truck Series race doubleheader at St. Petersburg with the IndyCar season opener.
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Now, the two series are joining hands once again at Phoenix. Pato O’Ward was initially critical of this idea and wanted to put an end to this move. However, his recent post on social media was a passive-aggressive jab:
“I stand corrected; I’m so happy to be here with NASCAR this weekend,” O’Ward commented, replying to Jeff Gluck’s post summarizing NASCAR and IndyCar viewership data.
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On first glance, it seems like O’Ward is simply saying it because Gluck proved that IndyCar did not lose viewership to NASCAR. However, fans were quick to connect it to Kevin Harvick and Will Buxton’s rebuke of his comments about NASCAR.
IndyCar does not have a hero like Jordan yet. For O’Ward to blame NASCAR for that does not sound convincing. After all, he can’t force NASCAR fans to shift to IndyCar and he can’t bring IndyCar fans back to the sport if they do not like the racing action there.
However, Kevin Harvick also raises a very important point for the fans and the community itself during his monologue.
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A chance to end the pointless rivalry
Motorsports, in its essence, is a celebration of high speed and those daring enough to perform at that level. What O’Ward suggests lists a very important issue—rivalry between motorsports series.
Looking at it from the perspective of a fan, there is no reason for any rivalry between the two motorsports. Formula 1, NASCAR, and IndyCar are not different sports. They are not like the NFL and the NHL.
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They are different sheep from the same flock. It’s like the US Open and the French Open. Both tournaments serve the same purpose: to bring together tennis fans.
Buxton beautifully tries to unite the fans with his plea to stop the unnecessary rivalry between these series.
“NASCAR versus IndyCar, Formula 1 versus everyone. And what benefit did it bring to anyone? Zero. We’re race fans, pure and simple. Our appreciation of the daring and skill of race drivers should never have become so fiercely divided.
“With national and international recognition of motorsport and racing drivers on the up now more than at any time in the last few generations, it is a moment to come together to applaud racing and racers of all championships and at all levels.”
His words strike true in the current context. If fans come together to celebrate racing, the sport can accomplish more than what it can currently. By clashing their ideals and appreciation, the fans are diminishing the importance of each sport.
Sure, NASCAR and IndyCar are inherently different. One is more popular than the other, but that doesn’t mean that the drivers have to show any animosity towards each other’s race.
To bring fans together and unite the motorsports community, it is necessary to show them the true spectacle of racing.
NASCAR and IndyCar have taken a positive step to make this spectacle come true with their latest advances.
JGR Star Comes Clean on Crew Chief’s Controversial Radio Conversation After COTA Mishap
The recently concluded race at COTA saw confusion between Joe Gibbs Racing’s Chase Briscoe and his crew chief, James Small, over radio communication. So much so that the confusion ended Briscoe’s day and drew significant attention, following which the JGR driver had to come out in the open and offer an explanation.
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Briscoe spills the beans from the COTA race
In a recent interview with SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Briscoe opened up about the incident in which he and his crew chief, Small, misinterpreted radio communication, triggering controversy. Reflecting on it, Briscoe also revealed how pit road information is relayed to the driver in most cases.
“When they send me all my pit road information, they’ll put it in there,” Briscoe said. “And I’ll be honest, I normally don’t really look at the DBP map area, because it’s not a place I’m necessarily planning to go. But also, normally the spotter can help you out and kind of guide you, they know where it’s at. And it’s normally right in the garage.”
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Following this, the #19 driver shed light on how the Circuit of The Americas track is different from the usual Oval or Superspeedways. Despite this, Briscoe believed he had a chance of winning the race at this point until the issue arose, and he went on the radio, drawing unwanted attention.
“But COTA is very unique in a sense, of its kind of in the parking lot, like it’s not even near where the garage is. So yeah, I was just confused. I pulled back in there, and he was like, go to the front of the hauler. Well, I didn’t know if he meant like the actual front, like up in the parking lot, or just like the front where we’d normally park our car, like by the tailgate. So yeah, I was confused, and obviously we were all wound up, and that was pretty mild from James, really,” Briscoe further added.
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Notably, Chase Briscoe suffered a mechanical failure with his Toyota Camry XSE during the DuraMAX Texas Grand Prix at COTA. Following this, he had a furious radio communication with his crew chief, James Small, which grabbed the attention of fans.
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While coming out of a corner, Briscoe’s Toyota’s transaxle broke, and handed him a DNF. Briscoe, who was running within the top five and was a contender for the win, was immediately furious with the incident.
The JGR star believed his car was capable of winning the race. Despite this, Briscoe had to swallow the bitter pill of DNF and take home a 37th-place finish. While Small had yet to react to Briscoe’s radio communication from the COTA race, he made sure he revealed the latter’s personality trait.
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Chase Briscoe’s crew chief once called him “weird dude”
Following Chase Briscoe‘s victory at Talladega last year and his qualification in the Championship 4, James Small shared his take on his driver. Calling him a “cool head” under pressure, Small said:
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“Nothing fazes him; his personality, he’s cool under pressure, he’s a weird dude. I’ve never met anybody like him. But to be a racecar driver, that’s a great quality to have. I just expect him to treat it [the championship finale] as another race; there’s not really any added pressure, we just gotta go out there and try and win the race.”
Chase Briscoe and James Small started working together after the former joined Joe Gibbs Racing in 2025. Briscoe left the now-defunct Stewart-Haas Racing and replaced Martin Truex Jr.
Together, the JGR pair tested some success as Briscoe qualified in the final four and finished the season in third place with three wins. However, they have yet to see success coming into 2026.
Richard Petty’s Warning Comes True as JGR Star Lashes Out at NASCAR Fans Over ‘Star-Identity’ Crisis
Days after the 2026 Daytona 500, Richard Petty shed light on how NASCAR no longer produces star drivers such as ‘The King’ (Petty) himself, or ‘The Intimidator’ (Dale Earnhardt). This lack of next-generation stardom synced with Joe Gibbs’ star driver’s recent admission, highlighting an identity crisis despite NASCAR’s countrywide popularity.
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Christopher Bell’s unfortunate admission on identity crisis
Joe Gibbs Racing’s Christopher Bell recently sat with The Athletic‘s Jeff Gluck, where he participated in the customary tradition of answering 12 questions about himself and NASCAR. In one of the questions, Gluck asked Bell about the “pettiest” thing that annoyed him.
“I get annoyed whenever race fans come up and ask for an autograph — and then follow it up with, “What’s your name?” or “Who are you?” That annoys me,” Bell said straightaway. “If they’re having you sign your own stuff, I enjoy that. But if it’s just generic checkered flags or something and they’re like, “Hey, sign this, sign this, sign this … what’s your name? Who are you?” It’s like, dude, why do you want my autograph? You don’t even know who I am.”
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For a driver who spent nearly six years in the top tier of stock car racing, has 216 races under his belt, and drives for Joe Gibbs Racing, one of the top teams in the sport, having a bit of fame or identity can be expected. However, going by Bell’s admission, it was not so in most of the cases.
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This brings us to Richard Petty’s recent warning, where he shed light on how no drivers are able to reach the likes of Junior Johnson, Darrell Waltrip, Dale Earnhardt, or Jeff Gordon. Speaking to Forbes, Petty had said:
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“Right now, we’re really hurting, looking for somebody to break out of the crowd. We have no fox for all of the dogs to chase. It’s a multitude of drivers racing against each other with no front-runner, nobody dominant, the first time in all of the transitions to different eras we have had this.”
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Apparently, one cannot ignore Petty’s claim, as the likes of Kyle Larson, Joey Logano, or Ryan Blaney, all champion drivers of this generation, are hardly a match to Earnhardt or Gordon’s popularity. Although Kyle Busch or Denny Hamlin attract a few individual fans, it is still no match for the old generation drivers.
However, according to King Petty, there is one driver who can end this story.
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When King Petty picked the next Intimidator
In a recent conversation with Dale Inman in the Richard Petty Family Racing podcast, Richard ‘the King’ Petty named the driver who he thinks resembles Dale Earnhardt, the Intimidator. Naming Carson Hocevar as the driver in question, Petty said:
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“That boy in that 77, he has him in time. A lot of things he’s getting by with or doing are not really that wrong. If I go back and watch him run and stuff, he reminds me of Dale Earnhardt. Earnhardt learned to get by with that stuff. That boy in the 77, he’s just going to have to learn to get by with the things that he’s doing.”
With this, Petty and Inman discussed how Hocevar’s aggressiveness, old school grit, and risk-taking behavior reflect the young Dale Earnhardt. During his days, Earnhardt raced quite aggressively, something that is seen only in the Spire Motorsports driver lately, Petty reckoned.
However, whether he is the next Dale Earnhardt or not, Hocevar indeed made a name for himself already, as the NASCAR fraternity popularly knows him by “Hurricane Hocevar.”
Ryan Blaney Issues Honest Take on Tyler Reddick After COTA Dominance
Tyler Reddick scripted history last Sunday after he claimed three back-to-back wins at Daytona, Atlanta, and COTA at the start of the season. With this, he became the first-ever NASCAR driver to achieve this historic feat. The big achievement couldn’t even stop Reddick’s 2024 title rival, Ryan Blaney, from stepping forward and praising him.
Ryan Blaney’s honest appreciation for Tyler Reddick
“I mean, incredibly impressive. I mean, you have to give it to Tyler and that whole team,” Blaney said of Reddick and 23XI Racing. “I mean, the guy’s just waxing everyone as a competitor. But like from the same competitor side of it, like you have to appreciate that. Like you appreciate teams that can put weekends like that together, especially the Daytona, Atlanta have similarities, but they’re different types of racing. And then COTA, like putting it all together at these different tracks, is incredibly impressive.”
Following this, the #12 Team Penske driver, who finished the race in eighth place, highlighted how he sat in the best seat (of course, inside his Ford Mustang Dark Horse) and watched Reddick run for the record. Blaney started the race from fourth position and mostly raced behind Reddick, similar to Shane van Gisbergen.
“He’s small, like he’s a little dot in my windshield right now. But, they’ve been putting together a good one, and it’s funny. People ask me, they’re like, ‘Man, you were good on Sunday, but how, how the heck, gosh, that 45 car was so fast.’ Like I said, I know I saw, I followed him like all the race, the whole race. I saw how fast he was. I had the best seat in the house for how much of a butt weapon they put on the field,” Blaney further added.
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Coming from a war-torn situation in 2025, where Reddick and team #45 remained winless, 23XI Racing was battling uncertainty in the NASCAR lawsuit. To make matters worse, Reddick lost his longtime sponsor, Monster Energy.
After that, the season changed, the calendar turned, and Tyler Reddick rose like a phoenix rising from the ashes — winning his and his team’s first-ever Daytona 500 race in February. And the miracle did not end there, as the #45 driver maneuvered through the tricky EchoPark Speedway to snatch back-to-back wins.
Coming to COTA, an entirely different track, Reddick emerged victorious once again. This time, against Blaney, and most importantly, against Shane van Gisbergen, the road course expert.
“We got our Safety Culture Chevy a lot better than yesterday, but following Tyler, his driving was immaculate, and his car was very good too,” said SVG about him.
As a result, praises for Tyler Reddick poured in from everywhere, and Ryan Blaney was no different. While Blaney was busy praising Tyler Reddick and the 23XI Racing driver, Michael Jordan named the man who laid the foundation for his team’s success.
Michael Jordan named the man behind Tyler Reddick’s success
Following Tyler Reddick‘s victory at COTA on Sunday, Michael Jordan highlighted how Denny Hamlin was the man who scouted the #45 driver amid a series of NASCAR talents. Besides this, the Joe Gibbs Racing driver was also the force behind keeping Reddick in the team despite the uncertain future during the lawsuit against NASCAR.
“I’m proud of the team we put together,” Jordan told FOX Sports. “Denny, I’m pretty sure is the same way. He feels the same way as I do. And I think a lot of credit goes to him because he’s the mastermind behind finding Tyler. I think Denny’s done an unbelievable job in terms of helping build this team. And I think this team has done a good job of taking on leadership and just winning. That’s what it’s about. Winning.”
Together with Denny Hamlin, Michael Jordan formed the 23XI Racing team in 2020. Initially, the team fielded only Bubba Wallace, but they roped in Reddick from the Xfinity Series in 2022, and currently have three full-time charters, including one for Riley Herbst.
Controversial Female Driver Teases Cup Series Debut Weeks After Getting Hate From NASCAR Fans
Natalie Decker’s season-opening O’Reilly race at Daytona certainly didn’t go as planned. Racing for Joey Gase Motorsports, not only was she unable to finish the race, but she also found herself involved in a bad crash with Sam Mayer. Since then, multiple incidents on and off the track have led to the fans turning against her. Even though it seems against the odds, right now, Decker is not ready to give up as she reveals her future goals.
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Natalie Decker reveals Daytona return in summer
Despite what happened, Natalie Decker might be planning a Daytona return. This time, however, she suggests that she might make her Cup Series debut. In a recent video released on Instagram, Decker and her husband can be seen conversing about the same.
While the duo was watching Cup qualifying, her husband said that she could be one of those superstars racing at the level of NASCAR. As Natalie Decker goes on to reveal how it is her dream, her husband drops a bombshell message:
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“We’re working on it. Maybe not the 500 this year, obviously. But summer race.”
With that, the duo suggests that Natalie Decker may mark her Cup Series debut at the Coke Zero Sugar 400 this year. However, the duo did not reveal many details about the same.
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As of right now, it is still a suggestion on their part, and there is no confirmation or news about Decker finding herself sponsors or a team that is ready to lend her a ride.
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For now, things do not look good for her. The entire fanbase was against her owing to her comments against Sam Mayer. They also did not like her controversial picture with comedian Bert Kreischer.
Although when she was in hot water, veteran and analyst Kenny Wallace supported her furiously.
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“Shame on all of you. You know that’s a human being, right? And when she was on her radio, she wasn’t talking to you; she was talking to her team. And as far as pulling her fire suit down, I’m sure if she had to take it back, she would.”
Despite all this, Natalie Decker’s future in NASCAR is not going dark anytime soon. She also has positive news for the upcoming season.
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Natalie Decker confirms NOAPS participation in 2026
While her plans for a Cup Series debut are still in progress, she does have a set path for the 2026 season in the NOAPS.
In an interview with Samantha Busch, Decker reveals that her sponsor T.N. Dickinson is already agreeing to help her for two more races. She has confirmed that she will participate in the Bristol and Talladega races.
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Moreover, Decker also revealed that her 2026 schedule is going to be one of her best NOAPS schedules. She might end up participating in up to 5 NOAPS races this season.
It is much better than her previous two seasons in the NOAPS, when she couldn’t turn up to many events.
Decker has yet to post a top-10 in any of her races in the NOAPS so far. Her best finish in the series came at the 2024 Daytona season opener, racing for DGM Motorsports.
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Compared to the NOAPS, Decker was far more successful in the NASCAR Truck Series, where she ran a full-time program for two years. Her best finish came at Daytona in 2020 with Niece Motorsports. She posted a P5 finish, becoming the highest-finishing female racer in the history of NASCAR.
No matter her situation, Decker is ready to leave it all behind in the hope of a better season this year. All eyes will be on her if she does make the cut to the Coke Zero Sugar 400.
Rick Hendrick’s Notorious Star Shrugs Off NASCAR Garage’s Anger in 2-Words
Corey Day is not the ‘star rookie’ in the eyes of NASCAR fans. His aggressive moves and irrational clashes with his teammates are creating a bad reputation for his name. But Day believes that these situations are a given, considering that he is a rookie in the sport. In his latest interview with SiriusXM, he reveals that handling public criticism is something he’s experiencing for the first time.
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Corey Day distances himself from dirty racing allegations
A big gripe that the fans and fellow racers in the garage have with Corey Day is that he is way too aggressive on track. In his interview, Day denies such allegations, citing his experience in the grassroots series.
“I like to think I was a pretty clean guy in dirt. I never really caused too many wrecks or problems for other people. But I have done it for eight years now; I am at the point where I can race at the highest level and be that way right. I am not a new guy like I am here.”
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In his eyes, the opinions of other people are necessary. But it’s not something that he can entirely avoid. He attributes it to the nature of racing and his current standing in the sport.
“I am definitely getting everyone’s opinion on how to handle myself. It’s just stuff that I have never had to deal with, and it’s just growing pains. I am racing at the highest level, and I am a rookie, so it’s stuff that’s going to happen, unfortunately.”
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However, it is much different for him compared to his racing days in the grassroots series. As he recounts, he never really faced such a critique early in his career. Day believes that it is only because the sprint car or dirt community is not that popular on social media.
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In his eyes, the opportunity that NASCAR has brought him has also left him exposed to trolls and multiple varying opinions.
While he does not mind these other opinions, there is something that he does need to keep in mind. His mentor at JR Motorsports, Dale Jr., had some stern advice for him.
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Corey Day might believe that he is racing cleanly. However, as Dale Jr. reminds, he can’t go against his own teammate and leave his team in a difficult spot. He needs to curb his aggression and work for the team, not against it. For now, Day might need to pay some more attention to it.
While he continues to work on his debut O’Reilly season, veterans are already raising questions about his seat.
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Denny Hamlin renders Corey Day a failed experiment
Denny Hamlin did not hold back on Corey Day. While there are comparisons between Corey Day and Carson Hocevar, Hamlin took it a step further.
He relegates Corey Day to someone worse than Hocevar. Because in his eyes, Day only makes contact, and his aggression has no goal or ideals. It is purely a mistake that he keeps making out of ego.
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“How long does the experiment continue to go? I mean you’ve seen good runs out of him. I haven’t seen a lot of great runs out of him. You’ve seen more mistakes than you’ve seen great runs. And like when I say mistakes, I mean big old blatant mistakes. And every weekend there are some guys that are upset.”
Hamlin was referring to the multiple incidents in which Day ended up wrecking other drivers. Not only that, but last weekend, Day left Connor Zilisch furious about their contact at the Circuit of the Americas.
“We were going to finish in the top 5, but it’s the same guy every week that does this. So hopefully, he can figure it out… All I want is an apology, but the guy just stands over there and stares at me. It just makes it worse.”
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For now, it is clear that a big jump from dirt racing to NASCAR is not going well for Corey Day. Even the driver himself admits it in his latest interview. It seems like he might need training in more than one aspect of NASCAR with Hendrick Motorsports and Dale Jr.
Tyler Reddick Aims To Make History With Michael Jordan And 23XI Racing
Since NASCAR’s inception in 1949, no one had won the first three races to start a season. That was until 23XI Racing’s Tyler Reddick made history to start the 2026 Cup Series campaign.
Reddick won the season opening Daytona 500 in dramatic fashion, making a criss-cross move around both Zane Smith and Chase Elliott in the last quarter-lap at Daytona International Speedway. But this was more than just a victory, as he led Michael Jordan to the winner’s circle in the Great American Race, a scene that was seen across the globe.
Reddick, 30, is now off to by far the best star of his young NASCAR career. He left Daytona with plenty of momentum, and he dominated the second race of the year at EchoPark Speedway. When the series arrived at Circuit of the Americas, where he won in 2023, expectations were still high. He held off the pre-race favorite Shane van Gisbergen, who won five road course races in 2025, and did so in dominating fashion by leading 58 of 95 laps en route to his historic victory.
“I expected our year to start better than we ended 2025, but it is really perfect because it truly has been a perfect start,” Reddick said. “Not just off the finishes, but the vibes, the way that we’ve been addressing and pushing things in the right direction, and I’m just extremely pleased with all of it. I never won back-to-back in NASCAR, and I obviously never won three in a row.”
After winning at Daytona, Reddick said his team could’ve laid back a bit and took a deep breath. But instead, the 23XI Racing folks have been determined as ever to get their boss into victory lane.
“Everyone has kept a good mindset,” Reddick said.
Now, former drivers like Kevin Harvick are predicting that Jordan and 23XI Racing co-owner Denny Hamlin have created what is most certainly a “dangerous” team.
Tyler Reddick and Michael Jordan’s Special Bond
Before Reddick signed with 23XI Racing in an unprecedented deal originally inked in 2022 that would have had him start with the team in 2024—he moved to 23XI Racing in 2023 after Kurt Busch’s retirement—he wanted to understand who Jordan was as a man and a team owner.
“He’s someone who’s really locked in,” Reddick said. “Before I got started here, I got to learn how much racing means to Michael. For me, that’s important because it’s important to work with individuals who share the same passions, motivators and the same drive. He’s been able to be there in those moments, and he’s there at the moments when the fans or people who aren’t part of 23XI don’t see.
“He goes above and beyond in many ways to give us resources. There are so many ways that he offers himself up to this team. It really works well.”
Jordan, a NBA legend and champion, has the expectation of turning this team into one that is at the top. The challenge is to defeat the likes of Hendrick Motorsports, Team Penske and Joe Gibbs Racing, the three powerhouses that dominate the sport.
Reddick, the team believes, could be the driver to knock out the Big Three.
“Our number goal is to win races,” Reddick said. “We understand it’s important to finish off the season itself. To have a really good shot at winning the Chase, it’s going to be important to be seeded high when that starts.”
Reddick’s Growth With 23XI Racing
Reddick signed with 23XI Racing after being a Chevrolet driver throughout his first few years in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and Cup Series, mostly with Richard Childress Racing. After a solid first two seasons with RCR in the No. 8 car, he captured his first Cup win at Road America in 2022, just days before announcing his new contract.
A large part of Reddick’s success at 23XI Racing is due to his tight-knit relationship with crew chief Billy Scott, who was a journeyman crew chief of sorts until he was paired with Reddick. Scott only had the same driver in back-to-back seasons once (Danica Patrick in 2016 and 2017). He joined 23XI Racing to work with Busch, who he was quite successful with in 2018, winning at Bristol and finishing seventh in the championship.
“It’s awesome to be able to have these winning moments,” Reddick said. “What we’ve gone through to get to this point is why we’re celebrating these moments now. We’ve been able to get through the tough times and periods of adversity.”
Last year, Reddick went winless, while his 23XI teammate Bubba Wallace claimed a Crown Jewel victory at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Even with the winless campaign, he finished ninth in the standings. Now, with the hot start, Reddick has his eyes on claiming the regular season championship, which he won in 2024.
Despite Reddick’s decline in performance in 2025 and 23XI Racing’s lawsuit against NASCAR, which was settled over the offseason, his partnership value has increased.
“What’s so important is the authenticity of our relationships,” Reddick said. “It’s important that the fit is good. I’d have to imagine it’s been a whirlwind for Chumba Casino because they’ve had interest in motor sports for a while. They won Indy with Bubba and they have an expanded role on my racecar this year, so it’s pretty crazy.
“I’ve worked with Pinnacle for years, the longest-running partner that I’ve had and it’s transcended my time with 23XI, going back to my time with RCR. Last year, it was a huge deal for them to finally reach the point where they had some primaries.”
This year, Reddick and 23XI have not only expanded their relationship with Chumba Casino, but also with Xfinity. Also coming on board to serve as a primary sponsor for Reddick this year are SupplyHouse, Comparion Insurance Agency and Pala Casino, each of which are new NASCAR sponsors, a move that showcases Jordan’s starpower and 23XI’s unique position in the sport.
As the season rolls on, 23XI Racing expects to be in the championship conversation with both Reddick and Wallace.
IROC Drops Historic Comeback Message With 67-YO NASCAR Veteran
After leading a glorious career, a comeback is a thrilling event for fans. Mark Martin’s name resonates across motorsports circles to this day, 13 years after he retired from racing. The 40-time Cup Series race winner remains relevant to NASCAR, being vocal about the issues facing the sport today. However, Martin’s name is legendary not only in NASCAR, but also in IROC – the memory of which we can invoke for an upcoming event.
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Another legendary name in the NASCAR line-up
“IROC’s all-time winningest driver is locked in for Heritage. 🔒,” IROC’s Instagram account posted recently.
And the premier American auto racing competition is referring to none other than Mark Martin. The 67-year-old veteran racer is a five-time champion in the International Race of Champions, having picked up 13 race trophies. Flaunting this glorious resume, Mark Martin will take the wheel at the Heritage Invitational on Friday, April 10, for IROC’s Ten-Tenths Motor Club debut.
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Mark Martin joins a star-studded field. It includes NASCAR greats like four-time Cup Series champion Jeff Gordon, 2003 Cup champion Kurt Busch, and 2000 NASCAR Cup Series champion Bobby Labonte. Other big names include five-time IMSA champion Scott Pruett, 1993 IMSA GTS champion Tommy Kendall, versatile fan favorite Max Papis, Trans Am veteran Tomy Drissi, and longtime IROC racer Ken Schrader.
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The IROC brand lay dormant after its historic run from 1973 to 2006. Then, Ray Evernham and Rob Kauffman acquired the name and began rebuilding the legacy, beginning with a 2024 exhibition event at Lime Rock Park, in which Mark Martin took part. The first time the veteran was invited was back in 1989.
“It was an incredible honor to be invited, to be a part of such an incredible, worldwide group,” Martin recalled in 2024. “I got to race with Martin Brundle and Emerson Fittipaldi and all kinds of guys that I never would have got to race with. It was just a great experience being able to rub elbows with so many people from drag racing and dirt like Steve Kinser.”
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Last week, IROC held a Goodyear tire test at the facility in Concord, North Carolina. Jeff Gordon, Kurt Busch, and Bobby Labonte logged a lot of laps around the track ahead of the Heritage Invitational event. The upcoming three-day event will also include Vintage Indy exhibitions, a celebrity Pro-Am race, and the Heritage Invitational Concours featuring significant cars.
With Mark Martin returning to IROC, the veteran is stirring up a lot of hype. But NASCAR fans will get a treat before the IROC event.
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A ride of pride for the veteran
Before we reminisce about Mark Martin’s IROC glory, we will get to remember his achievements on a certain NASCAR track. That is Darlington Raceway, a South Carolina oval where Martin is tied with Dale Earnhardt for most wins – 12. And Martin will return to the Track Too Tough to Tame on March 22, as the Honorary Pace Car Driver for the Goodyear 400.
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“Darlington has always been one of the most challenging and rewarding tracks I’ve ever raced,” said Mark Martin. “To come back and serve as the Honorary Pace Car Driver for the Goodyear 400 is truly special. The fans here appreciate the history of this sport, and I’m looking forward to seeing so many familiar faces.”
“Mark Martin’s incredible success at Darlington Raceway is a byproduct of the hard work and talent he combined to make him a fan favorite,” said Darlington Raceway President Josh Harris. “He still represents the grit, determination, and excellence that define Darlington Raceway. And we’re honored to have him lead the field to green for the Goodyear 400.”
Mark Martin’s comeback to both NASCAR and IROC tracks feels nostalgic. And it offers us fans a chance to buckle up for two amazing events – let’s see how they unfold!
NASCAR Insiders Clear the Air on Rules Surrounding HMS Star’s Mid-Race Substitution
When the Duramax Texas Grand Prix kicked off, who would have thought it’d be a race of attrition? Now, racing in Texas in March was always going to be tricky because of the heat. Fortunately, NASCAR was prepared with a contingency plan, and that was called a cooling suit. Unfortunately, there was an unexpected development, and Hendrick Motorsports’ Alex Bowman was one of the many victims.
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How did NASCAR deal with the Alex Bowman situation at COTA?
In an episode of Hauler Talk, NASCAR insiders talked about how the events unfolded.
Sometime during the third stage, a suffering Alex Bowman pulled into the pit lane. Since the car was still in decent condition, Hendrick Motorsports roped in Myatt Snider at the last moment to hop in. With that said, what is the protocol for a substitute driver to take over when the original driver cannot continue?
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Apparently, NASCAR has a system to vet drivers and approve them for race tracks. Normally, this happens well before the weekend begins, so it happening during a race was unprecedented.
“Yeah, so he [Snider] had his d–g test for the O’Reilly’s Auto Parts series.” Mike Forde said. “Then he would upgrade his license to the NASCAR Cup Series as part of the approval process. Obviously, he didn’t do any paperwork or pay the fee at that point, but that is something we’ll figure out moving forward. Don’t know where that is, but he had a license to race in NASCAR.”
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The reason why Snider was roped in was that he had an impressive resume. Additionally, he had some relatively recent runs in the O’Reilly’s Auto Parts Series. This was basically the 31-year-old’s NASCAR Cup debut, so did NASCAR take that into account when approving him?
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What’s interesting is that the approval was all track-based. Since they were at the Circuit of the Americas, and road courses are easier to give approval for, the process was quick. The same would also apply to a short track like Martinsville or even Phoenix.
However, he would have been ineligible to race if this were any other track. What helped Snider’s case was that the O’Reilly’s Auto Parts series was hugely competitive, and he had decent results.
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Strangely, there weren’t too many questions about him adapting to the Next Gen car. Normally, in those situations, NASCAR conducts optional rookie tests. Another point in Snider’s favor was that his name was in the NASCAR database, so they didn’t have to look far to find him. The whole process took 10-15 minutes in a situation that would normally take hours.
How bad was the situation at the Circuit of the Americas?
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As mentioned earlier, Alex Bowman‘s cool suit was not the only one that failed. In fact, multiple drivers found themselves severely hampered by cool suit malfunctions. Post-race, AJ Allmendinger actually collapsed when he got out of his car and had to be stretchered away. Fortunately, he has since been released and is now hale and hearty.
Kevin Harvick noted, “Let’s not forget, this was a full day’s work. Whether your cool suit is working or not, it’s just that there aren’t a lot of caution laps. Not a lot of time to take a break. There’s a lot of shifting. The car hits the ground a tremendous amount here, so there’s just that constant pounding of all the bumps and all the rubber blocks hitting the ground. It’s a tough day’s work for the driver because you have so many shifts and so much going on inside the car.
So what went wrong?
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Denny Hamlin’s theory was that a heat soak during the caution periods was the cause of the failures. Over here, reduced airflow traps heat inside the car and overwhelms the cooling systems. He explained that without the airflow that comes when the cars are at full throttle at racing speeds, the suits overheat and shut down.
NASCAR Hall of Famer Mark Martin to Lead Field at Darlington Goodyear 400
The NASCAR Cup Series will return to Darlington Raceway later this month for the Goodyear 400. The race will take place on Sunday, March 22, 2026. Darlington remains one of the most historic tracks in NASCAR. Drivers often call it the “Track Too Tough to Tame” because of its narrow racing groove and difficult layout.
According to the report, former driver Mark Martin will serve as the Honorary Pace Car Driver for the race. The NASCAR Hall of Famer will lead the field before the green flag. The role returns Martin to the track where he built one of the strongest records in NASCAR history.
Martin recorded 12 victories at Darlington across several series. That total ties him with Dale Earnhardt for the most wins at the South Carolina oval. The honor also connects today’s drivers with one of the sport’s most respected veterans.
Mark Martin Built a Hall of Fame NASCAR Career
Martin competed in NASCAR for more than three decades. His career produced success across all three national touring series.
He finished his career with 96 wins across NASCAR’s top divisions. That total includes 40 victories in the Cup Series. Martin also earned 49 wins in what is now the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. He added seven victories in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series.
Many drivers respected Martin for his precision and steady performance. His consistent results made him one of the most reliable drivers of his era.
Although he never won a Cup Series championship, Martin remained a title contender in several seasons. His career still ranks among the most successful in the sport.
Darlington’s Success Shaped Martin’s Legacy
Darlington Raceway played a major role in Martin’s success. He earned 12 wins at the track across different racing series.
His Darlington record includes two Southern 500 victories in the Cup Series. Martin also captured two wins at the track in the International Race of Champions.
He recorded eight victories in what is now the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series at Darlington. That total ranks among the strongest records at the track.
Darlington Raceway president Josh Harris spoke about Martin’s history at the venue.
“Mark Martin’s incredible success at Darlington Raceway is a byproduct of the hard work and talent he combined to make him a fan favorite. He still represents the grit, determination, and excellence that define Darlington Raceway, and we’re honored to have him lead the field to green for the Goodyear 400.”
The Honorary Pace Car Driver role will place Martin in front of the Cup Series field before the start of the race. The moment will connect today’s drivers with one of the sport’s historic figures.
Martin Looks Forward to Returning to Darlington
Martin also shared his thoughts about returning to the track. He reflected on the challenges of racing at Darlington.
“Darlington has always been one of the most challenging and rewarding tracks I’ve ever raced. To come back and serve as the Honorary Pace Car Driver for the Goodyear 400 is truly special. The fans here appreciate the history of this sport, and I’m looking forward to seeing so many familiar faces.”
Fans will have additional chances to see Martin during race weekend. He will join other NASCAR alumni for appearances in the Darlington Raceway Fan Zone.
The race weekend will begin Friday, March 20. The NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series will run the Buckle Up South Carolina 200 that day.
The NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series will compete on Saturday, March 21. That race is the Sport Clips Haircuts VFW Help a Hero 200.
The Goodyear 400 will take place on Sunday, March 22. The NASCAR Cup Series field will compete at Darlington for a chance to join the track’s list of winners. Martin will lead the field before the race begins.
Ex-Red Sox top prospect threw 100 mph in debut and more spring training notes
Thursday’s 6-2 Red Sox loss to the Philadelphia Phillies in Clearwater, Fla. included an early double ABS system whammy. Thanks to catcher JT Realmuto’s successful challenges on two balls that were, in fact, strikes, Phillies starter Jesus Luzardo ended the top of the first with back-to-back strikeouts to strand leadoff man Braiden Ward on third.
While the Phillies went 3 for 3 in challenges, the Red Sox went 0 for 2 to use up their nine-inning allotment. Red Sox catcher Matt Thaiss lost a challenge on a Kyle Keller Ball 4 to Adolis García in the bottom of the fifth, which loaded the bases for the Phillies. Replacement catcher Mickey Gasper unsuccessfully challenged a Ball 2 on Jacob Webb’s four-pitch leadoff walk to Austin Murr in the eighth.
With the majority of their big-league starting lineup competing in the World Baseball Classic, the offense is sputtering big-time. The Red Sox were out-hit 10-5, drew three walks and struck out 14 times. They were 0 for 9 with runners in scoring position and left six men on base. They’ve been outscored 10-2 over their last two games, though Thursday’s road lineup was almost exclusively minor leaguers and non-roster invitees (and, of course, the games don’t count). Of the starters, only Nick Sogard, who batted second and played shortstop, and Connor Wong, who bat cleanup and served as the designated hitter, appeared in games for the 2025 Red Sox.
Starter T.J. Sikkema took the loss after yielding three earned runs on five hits and striking out two in his 2 1/3 innings. Michael Sansone, Ryan Watson, Keller, Wyatt Olds, Webb and P.J. Labriola pitched the rest of the way for Boston.
High heat in DC
Former Red Sox top pitching prospect Luis Perales made his Washington Nationals debut in Thursday’s 7-4 victory over the New York Mets, and showed off his blazing four-seam fastball in his scoreless, hitless inning of work.
The righty threw the eight hardest pitches of the game, all four-seamers at 98.4 mph or faster and four that cleared 100 mph. Perales topped out at 100.5; the hardest pitch by anyone else in the game was Gus Varland’s 97.3 mph four-seamer in the ninth.
Boston dealt Perales to DC, where the front office is now run by former Red Sox assistant general manager Paul Toboni, in December to acquire lefty Jake Bennett. The swap, of two pitching prospects coming off Tommy John surgeries, added command to Boston’s pitching ranks and velocity to Washington’s.
Perales pitched 2 1/3 innings over three games for Red Sox Double-A (once) and Triple-A last season, and allowed two earned runs on zero hits, three walks and four strikeouts.
Bennett, whom the Nationals drafted twice, in the 39th round in 2019 and in the second round three years later, earned two promotions last season to rise from Single-A to Double-A. He pitched to a combined 2.27 ERA over 19 games (18 starts) with 64 strikeouts and 19 walks in 75 1/3 innings.
World Baseball Classic news
While Pools A, B and D of the World Baseball Classic begin their legs of the tournament Friday, Pool C got things started Thursday in Tokyo with a 3-0 Australia win over Chinese Taipei and an 11-4 Korea victory over Czechia.
Japan (and Red Sox DH Masataka Yoshida) play Chinese Taipei Friday, March 5 at 5 a.m. ET. 2025 World Series MVP Yoshinobu Yamamoto gets the ball for the defending WBC champions.
Astros star Jeremy Peña suffered a fracture in the tip of his right ring finger during Team Dominican Republic’s exhibition game against the Detroit Tigers on Wednesday. The shortstop will miss the World Baseball Classic and is questionable for Opening Day. The Red Sox open the regular season with a six-game road trip to Cincinnati and Houston.
Judgement Week
Aaron Judge is among the best at blasting baseballs 400-plus feet out of any given ballpark, but his brief speech to Team USA teammates on Tuesday fell flat in the court of public opinion.
A 20-second clip of the New York Yankees captain’s impromptu remarks went viral on Major League Baseball’s X account (formerly Twitter) for a perceived lack of fire.
“I’m so fired up from that I could write a LinkedIn post,” one X user replied.
“This made me want to lightly jog through the softest wall I can possible find,” someone commented.
Judge also drew criticism for describing the team’s journey and goals as “sacrificing for your country, and you’re sacrificing for the brothers in the trenches with you every single day.”
“Does he know he’s going to play baseball not go into a war?” Asked another.
Public speaking may not be Judge’s forte, but he’s widely respected around the league, including by Team USA teammate Roman Anthony and Red Sox manager Alex Cora.
And Judge certainly knows how to bounce back. The day after his speech, he hit a 453-foot home run in Team USA’s exhibition victory over the Colorado Rockies.
Around the league
Longtime MLB outfielder and DH Andrew McCutchen has a minor league deal with the Texas Rangers. … According to ESPN, which now runs MLB.TV, the Atlanta Braves’ March 2 win over the Tigers was the most-watched spring training game in the last 10 years, and a 54% increase over last year’s top views-getter between Boston and Baltimore. … Speaking of ESPN, the Red Sox have six players in their latest MLB Top 100 rankings, tied with the Seattle Mariners, Atlanta Braves and Chicago Cubs for third-most in the majors (behind the Phillies’ seven and Dodgers’ eight): Garrett Crochet (No. 8), Roman Anthony (No. 33), Jarren Duran (No. 67), Ranger Suárez (No. 85), Ceddanne Rafaela (No. 88) and Aroldis Chapman (No. 93).
Marlins MLB Hopefuls Fill Franchise’s Spring Breakout Game Roster Pool
The Miami Marlins have several potential MLB contributors in their roster pool for the spring breakout game later this month.
MLB announced the player pools for all 30 teams and Miami’s pool is filled with Top 30 prospects per MLB Pipeline. For Miami, 25 of the franchise’s Top 30 prospects are part of the pool, though not all of them will play in the game.
Miami Marlins prospects will face Houston Astros prospects on March 19 at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches in West Palm Beach, Fla. First pitch is scheduled for 12:05 p.m. eastern.
Starting next year, the Spring Breakout is moving to a single-elimination tournament that will crown a Grapefruit League and a Cactus League champion. Those tournaments are expected to take four days during spring training, with the 2027 event set for March 19-22.
Miami Marlins in Spring Breakout
Foremost among the prospects is outfielder Owen Caisse, who is playing for Team Canada in the World Baseball Classic and was acquired by the Marlins in a trade in January with the Chicago Cubs for pitcher Edward Cabrera.
Caissie’s minor league numbers were terrific. In 505 games he slashed .280/.384/.487 with 81 home runs and 301 RBI. He has a career OPS of .871. Before his MLB call-up with the Cubs in August, he slashed .286/.386/.551 with a .937 OPS with 22 home runs and 55 RBI.
Left-handed pitcher Robby Snelling is also part of the player pool. The No. 2 prospect in the organization is in Major League camp and competing for one of the final roster spots. He has pitched in three spring training games and has given up six hits and four earned runs in 5.1 innings. He has struck out eight and walked three.
Another left-hander, Thomas White, is on the roster but is unlikely to pitch after he suffered an oblique strain and was re-assigned to minor league camp. Last season was a breakthrough for him as he went 4-3 with a 2.31 ERA in 21 games, all starts. He allowed just 25 runs (23 earned) in 89.2 innings. He struck out 145 and walked 51 and allowed batters to hit a career-best .174 against him.
Catcher Joe Mack, who is competing for an opening day job, is also in the pool. He slashed .257/.338/.475 with 21 home runs and 58 RBI in the minor leagues. The absences of Agustin Ramirez and Liam Hicks for the WBC is creating more playing time for him.
Farm system rankings 2026 preseason
The Brewers have ascended to the top spot in the MLB Pipeline farm system rankings. The last time the organization sat atop such a list was the 2016 midseason version, when it claimed eight Top 100 prospects. That number now sits at five — including two picked up in an offseason trade — but the impressive depth at multiple positions pushed the perennial NL Central contenders to the mountaintop.
The Dodgers slide back one spot but still hold onto a top-two position, thanks to their great player development track record. Notably, the Brewers haven’t had a top-10 pick since 2017 and the Dodgers since 2006, so this isn’t a case in which either team could just draft its way to the top. The Pirates — the No. 3 system here — have a different story with two recent top-10 picks leading their charge in Konnor Griffin (2024) and Seth Hernandez (2026). But the Bucs certainly deserve credit for making good picks in those spots and especially getting Griffin to the No. 1 overall spot on Top 100s across the industry.
Looking back on last year’s preseason list, the Cardinals have climbed the most, moving up 16 places from 20 to 4. The Blue Jays (+12), Pirates (+11), Giants (+9) and Brewers (+6) round out the highest climbers, while the Cubs (-15), Red Sox (-11) and White Sox (-10) are among the clubs to take the biggest drops.
The Brewers were already trending up with the full-season debuts of Made and Peña and the former’s push into the upper echelon of the game’s best young talents. Then, the organization added two Top 100 prospects in Williams and Sproat as part of this offseason’s Freddy Peralta deal, giving it two upper-level players that could contribute quickly in Milwaukee, and that about sealed the Crew’s place at No. 1. It has elite talent. The pipeline has depth, aided by nice breakouts from Marco Dinges and Josh Adamczewski in 2025. It’s well-balanced with all positions represented in the Top 30. Entering 2026, it’s the top farm system in baseball.
The Dodgers have won three of the last six World Series and made 13 consecutive playoff appearances, including 12 National League West titles. They also excel at acquiring and developing prospects, with industry executives ranking them as doing the best job of developing both hitters and pitchers and rating them second-best at gathering talent via the international market and trades. No system features better outfielders, and while Los Angeles has a fairly hitter-heavy Top 30, River Ryan and Jackson Ferris could contribute to the big league pitching staff this year.
Sure, Konnor Griffin is generating all sorts of buzz, and for good reason, but there’s a lot more here than just the No. 1 prospect in all of baseball. For starters, the Pirates also boast the best pitching prospect duo in Bubba Chandler and Seth Hernandez. Beyond the five in the Top 100 — three of whom could help the Pirates turn things around in the big leagues this year — talent is amassing at every level and at pretty much every position.
The Cardinals have two recent top seven overall Draft picks (Wetherholt, Doyle), two 2025 breakout prospects (Rodriguez, Baez), a former switch-pitcher who could take off now that he’s fully righty (Cijntje) and a Minor League Gold Glove catcher (Bernal). And that’s just the Top 100 group. As part of its rebuild, St. Louis has gone into talent acquisition mode on the farm, bringing in the likes of Cijntje, Brandon Clarke, Yhoiker Fajardo and Tai Peete this offseason to add bulk to an already-exciting system. Turning this into the Cards’ next homegrown contender is the next step.
This is a top-heavy system, sure, and it’s almost exclusively focused on the bats. But have you seen the bats? McGonigle is arguably the best hitting prospect this decade and has the look of a future batting title winner. Clark is a five-tool star in the making. Rainer, the 2024 11th overall pick, looked really promising before a shoulder injury ended his first full season early last June. Briceño is a left-handed masher with an Arizona Fall League Triple Crown on his resume. Max Anderson, Hao-Yu Lee and Thayron Liranzo could all factor into future Motor City lineups, and Cris Rodriguez could crack future Top 100s if his plus-plus raw power translates stateside.
The Guardians have won three of the past four American League Central titles while leaning heavily on their farm system, and they still have more talent coming. Their total of six Top 100 prospects matches the Cardinals and Mariners for the most in the game, and Bazzana, DeLauter, Messick and Ingle all could help in Cleveland this season. All four of them and eight of the Guardians’ 10 best prospects arrived via the top four rounds of the last four Drafts.
The Mets have arguably the best pitching development group in baseball, and they also have the top pitching prospect to show for it. Tong, Jack Wenninger, Jonathan Santucci and Will Watson are also upper-level arms with strong results and the stuff to match, and that depth helped make Brandon Sproat movable this offseason in the Freddy Peralta blockbuster. There’s a nice mix of hitters closing in on the Majors (Carson Benge, Ryan Clifford, Jacob Reimer) and those just getting going (Mitch Voit, Elian Peña, Wandy Asigen) outside the Top 100 group. It’s that layering of talent that could make the Mets’ jump into the top 10 sustainable beyond these last two Farm System Rankings.
Even with the trades that sent Harry Ford to the Nationals and Jurrangelo Cijntje to the Cardinals, the Mariners have six Top 100 guys, tied for the most in baseball. There have been different waves in this organization, with pitching back when Logan Gilbert, George Kirby et al came up, then with hitters like Cole Young and current No. 1 prospect Colt Emerson. And now there are more arms coming behind that, with both Kade Anderson and Ryan Sloan potentially moving up quickly to help in Seattle.
The Twins were in sell mode last Trade Deadline and have restocked the system a bit, with five new members of the Top 30 coming from recent trades. Eduardo Tait is the headliner as the Top 100 guy from that list, but Kendry Rojas and Hendry Mendez are two more from the top half who give this system more depth. If Walker Jenkins and Emmanuel Rodriguez can finally stay healthy for a spell, both should hit their way to the big leagues and help the Twins start to turn things around in the AL Central.
The Rays always pride themselves on having one of the deepest farm systems in baseball, and when it seemed like its prospect talent level was about to take a hit after a down 2025, the organization addressed it by acquiring six Top 30 prospects in offseason trades and adding a pair more at the start of the international signing window. Among them, Jacob Melton could land an Opening Day spot in the Majors, Anderson Brito has some of the sharpest stuff in the system and Michael Forret has one of its deepest arsenals. Tampa Bay has multiple options that could join its current big three in the Top 100 quickly in ‘26.
No team has five higher-ranked players on the Top 100 than the Marlins, whose assemblage is headlined by the best combination of lefty pitching prospects in White and Snelling. Nevertheless, Miami has as many hitters (21) on its Top 30 as any club, an interesting proposition for a franchise that has struggled to develop bats. Of those 21 position players, 13 have been acquired since the start of 2025, including Caissie and No. 7 overall pick Arquette.
The top of this list is packed with hitters, with bats making up seven of the top eight. It’s led by Sal Stewart, who, if he gets big league at-bats, has the chance to be a sneaky good NL Rookie of the Year Award candidate. There’s some fun up-the-middle talent here with Alfredo Duno behind the plate and potential shortstops aplenty in Steele Hall (their first-rounder from last year’s Draft), Tyson Lewis and Edwin Arroyo all in the top 10.
With their ascension to playoff contention status, this system thinned out with graduations — some of those guys are still establishing themselves as part of the young lineup core in Baltimore — and trades. But there are still some fun hitters at the top of the list, with newcomer Nate George ready to take the banner as top bat once Samuel Basallo and Dylan Beavers graduate. In the past, there haven’t been too many pitchers making their way up, but that’s starting to change with two in the top five (Luis De León and Trey Gibson) and a total of 10 arms in the top 20.
The Red Sox experienced the second-biggest drop (11 spots) in our rankings from 12 months ago, the result of graduating three elite prospects (Roman Anthony, Kristian Campbell, Marcelo Mayer) and dealing off several other farmhands. But they still have a decent system and more pitching prospect depth than they’ve enjoyed in years, with Tolle and Early taking big leaps forward in 2025 and finishing the season on the big league playoff roster. Boston also features more international signees (15) on its Top 30 than any other system, highlighted by shortstops Franklin Arias and Dorian Soto, right-hander Juan Valera and outfielder Justin Gonzales.
Having a World Series-tested right-hander leading your Top 30 will certainly give a team some sort of bounce up the Farm System Rankings. That said, Yesavage isn’t doing all the heavy lifting. Up arrows for Johnny King, Gage Stanifer and Juan Sanchez (now a Top 10 third-base prospect before coming stateside) gave the American League pennant winners additional boosts, and the addition of Parker — a potential plus hitter at shortstop with power to come — with the eighth overall pick was another boon. After 2025 was so focused on rejuvenating the pitchers on the farm, the bats could receive a similar emphasis this summer.
After promoting three Top 100 prospects (Colson Montgomery, Kyle Teel, Edgar Quero) to Rate Field in 2025, the White Sox could do so again this year with Braden Montgomery, Schultz and Smith. They have shortstops coming behind them, including Single-A Carolina League MVP Caleb Bonemer and future Gold Glover Billy Carlson — not to mention whomever they select with the No. 1 overall pick in a shortstop-heavy Draft. Many of their best prospects played for their Area Code Games team in high school: Schultz, Bonemer, outfielder Jason Fauske and George Wolkow, left-handers Christian Oppor and Blake Larson.
Talk about a whole new look. Sixteen members of Washington’s Top 30 prospects list have joined the organization since last July as Draft picks or trade acquisitions, including No. 1 overall selection Willits, former Mariners Major Leaguer Ford and all five players from the MacKenzie Gore swap with the Rangers. That aside, the two best arms in Sykora (Tommy John) and Susana (lat) are coming off season-ending surgeries. Overall, there is a lot of raw talent here with upside, and the new Nationals front office will be focused on drawing out that potential and boosting the system’s standing with the players it now has.
Could the A’s have another Nick Kurtz situation on their hands, getting a new draftee to the big leagues in a hurry? There isn’t a hitter that fits, but Jamie Arnold, the left-handed pitcher who was their first-rounder in 2025, should move quickly. It shouldn’t shock anyone if he contributes in some fashion this year. The A’s are excited to have Leo De Vries for an entire season after he hit very well and reached Double-A following his trade from the Padres in the Mason Miller deal. He’s still only 19, but he could also reach the big leagues this year.
The Giants made the fourth-biggest jump from our pre-2025 rankings, moving up nine spots, and they’re poised for another leap this season. They have the game’s best power prospect in Eldridge and the top international amateur from each of the past two classes in Gonzalez and fellow shortstop Luis Hernández. Their group of potential Top 100 shortstops also extends to Jhonny Level and Gavin Kilen, and they have several other candidates to join the list in the near future, including outfielders Dakota Jordan and Bo Davidson and left-hander Jacob Bresnahan.
It’s a good thing when your top three prospects — all Top 100 guys — will have the chance to contribute to the big league roster this year. Two of them, Andrew Painter and Justin Crawford, should make the Opening Day roster. Just beyond the Top 100 prospects, there’s excitement brewing with 2025 first-rounder Gage Wood and 2026 international signee Francisco Renteria, who is already creating buzz in the organization.
Jensen’s ascent to become a bona fide Rookie of the Year Award candidate holds a good amount of weight in Kansas City’s modest climb, and the organization is flush with quality catching prospects in Mitchell and No. 8 Ramon Ramirez also slotting in high on the Top 30. There is plenty of intrigue across the industry surrounding teenage arms Kendry Chourio and David Shields, and both could jump into the Top 100 with repeats of their 2025 performances at higher levels over larger samples. But for now, it’s just the two backstops in that realm.
Organizations with only one Top 100 prospect typically don’t slot very highly in Farm System Rankings, but there’s a lot more depth for Arizona behind Waldschmidt, who has caught plenty of attention as a dark-horse candidate to win an MLB job out of his second Spring Training. The D-backs are deepest on the infield (specifically the second-base position) and have built up their Minor League pitching corps with much-needed additions through trades and the Draft.
After ranking eighth in March 2025, in large part because they tied the Mariners for the most Top 100 Prospects (seven) at that time, the Cubs have fallen further than any other system, down 15 spots. Ballesteros stands out most in a bat-heavy Top 30, with Wiggins the only arm who ranks among the organization’s dozen best prospects. Chicago has high hopes for its 2025 Draft, especially three outfielders: Ethan Conrad could emerge as the system’s top prospect a year from now, Kane Kepley could be its best pure hitter and Josiah Hartshorn could be its best power hitter.
The Braves have three pitchers atop their Top 30, and two of them will have the chance to help the big league club get back to competing in the NL East this year. JR Ritchie had a huge year, starting the Futures Game in Atlanta and reaching Triple-A. No. 3 prospect Didier Fuentes was rushed up last season, and if it hadn’t been for his uneven year, more people would be talking about him as well. It’s a pitching-heavy list with 17 of the 30 making their living on the mound, but they did pick up two potential middle infielders to kick off last year’s Draft in high school product Tate Southisene and college product Alex Lodise.
The Rangers are building their system back up after graduating four top 10 overall Draft picks to Arlington in the past three years, dealing with injuries to several of their best pitching prospects last season and surrendering eight farmhands in deals for Merrill Kelly and MacKenzie Gore. They took another hit when Walcott had internal brace surgery in February, though that shouldn’t affect forecasts of future stardom. On the positive side, they’re well stocked with right-handers after Caden Scarborough and David Davalillo had strong 2025 seasons, A.J. Russell arrived via the second round of the Draft and Jose Corniell, Winston Santos and Izack Tiger returned to full health.
The good news: The Yankees have a strong quartet of Top 100 prospects, with potential 25/25 shortstop Lombard, nearly ready righties Lagrange and Rodríguez and precocious Kilby, a supplemental first-rounder last July. The bad news: Beyond that group, righty Ben Hess and outfielder Spencer Jones, the depth falls off dramatically, the result of New York trading an industry-high players who appeared on Top 30s since the start of 2025. The Yankees also rank first with 21 pitchers on their current Top 30.
If things click with some of the bats in this system, the Rockies will take a big jump forward. Everyone is excited to see what the latest Holliday can do and hopeful that the real Charlie Condon, free of injuries, is the one raking so far in Spring Training. The first six on the top 30 are all hitters with upside and question marks about them getting to that ceiling. The pitching depth can also improve if some of the guys further removed from Tommy John surgery (particularly Gabriel Hughes and Jackson Cox) get back their former selves.
This is a high-risk, high-reward system. The Angels have rolled the dice on several high-ceiling high school pitchers over the past couple of Drafts. If that group performs well, this system will shoot up the rankings faster than their upper-90s heaters. But we all know the inherent risk of the demographic. There are also some interesting hitters from the international market who made some noise last year, even while being rushed up levels. That will further buoy the organization if they keep swinging the bat well.
The Astros haven’t placed higher than 27th in our rankings since we started doing them biannually in 2020, and they’re without a Top 100 prospect for the third time in our last five preseason lists. They do keep winning, even if their eight-year playoff streak ended on a tiebreaker, and they signed three players in 2025 who could crack the Top 100 in the near future: outfielders Kevin Alvarez and Ethan Frey and shortstop Xavier Neyens. Houston continues to excel at finding bargain pitchers, and its three best mound prospects are 16th-rounder Bryce Mayer, sixth-rounder Ethan Pecko and seventh-rounder A.J. Blubaugh.
The Padres have been the most aggressive buyers on the trade market, and that’s cost them significant prospect losses, both in terms of top talent and overall depth. The shining example was De Vries, who went to the A’s at last year’s Deadline for all-world reliever Mason Miller. In reality, that is part of a farm system’s job — to supply the organization with talent it can turn into Major Leaguers, either on their own or packaged together in deals. In that vein, San Diego has helped get breakouts out of prospects like Miguel Mendez (2025) and Bradgley Rodriguez (2024), two arms now on the 40-man roster. The organization could do something similar in ‘26 with currently undervalued talents. As it stands, Schoolcraft is the only Top 100 prospect in the group ahead of his first full season, and catcher Ethan Salas has the best chance to join him, but only if he can stay healthy and productive for the first time since 2023.
Rangers Exhibition Star and Top Pitching Prospect in MLB Spring Breakout Pool
The Texas Rangers are expected to bring their A-list of player prospects for the third-annual MLB Spring Breakout game later this month.
The player pools for the third annual showcase were released on Thursday. Not every prospect will play, but the Rangers’ prospect pool included 27 of their Top 30 prospects, per MLB Pipeline. At least one is certain not to play. Shortstop Sebastian Walcott recently had UCL surgery on his elbow and is not expected to take at-bats until at least August. Walcott is the Rangers’ No. 1 prospect.
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Texas prospects will face Kansas City prospects on March 20 at Billy Parker Stadium in Surprise, Ariz., with first-pitch set for 1:05 p.m. mountain and 3:05 p.m. central. The game is expected to be broadcast on Rangers Sports Network.
Starting next year, the Spring Breakout is moving to a single-elimination tournament that will crown a Grapefruit League and a Cactus League champion. Those tournaments are expected to take four days during spring training, with the 2027 event set for March 19-22.
Rangers Spring Breakout Prospects to Watch
Among those in the player pool is infielder Cameron Cauley, who is the Rangers’ No. 13 overall prospect per Pipeline and his having a terrific Major League spring training.
In nine Major League spring training games he’s slashed .333/.360/.625 with one home run and three RBI. He hit a home run in Texas’ exhibition game win over Team Brazil, but those numbers don’t count toward spring training stats. Even though he hasn’t taken an at-bat above Double-A Frisco, Cauley is wedging himself into the conversation for one of the three remaining bench spots on the team.
Right-handed pitching prospect Caden Scarborough, who is No. 2 in the organization per Pipeline, leads the pitching prospects. He is not in MLB camp, but he played his way onto the organization’s radar last season with a tremendous 2025. With Class-A Hickory and High-A Hub City, his overall record was 2-5 but the numbers that mattered were stellar. He finished with a 2.45 ERA in 22 games (21 starts), with 114 strikeouts and 21 walks in 88 innings. Batters hit just .181 against him. He also had a 0.88 WHIP.
Last year he was Texas’ No. 28 overall prospect. He could start this season at Frisco with an eye on trying to land a promotion at Triple-A Round Rock.
Recent draft picks that Rangers fans haven’t seen much of are also in the player pool, including A.J. Russell (2025 second round), Josh Owens (2025 third round), Malcolm Moore (2024 first round), Dylan Dreiling (2024 second round) and Jack Wheeler (2025 sixth round).
Round Pick Headlines MLB Spring Breakout Player Pool
The Houston Astros have opted for a patient approach with last year’s first round pick, Xavier Neyens. Patience will take a backseat when the Astros play their spring breakout game later this month in Florida.
Major League Baseball announced the player pools for all 30 teams who are preparing their prospects for the third annual showcase of future talent in both the Grapefruit and Cactus leagues.
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Houston Astros prospects will face Miami Marlins prospects on March 19 at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches in West Palm Beach, Fla. First pitch is scheduled for 12:05 p.m. eastern.
Starting next year, the Spring Breakout is moving to a single-elimination tournament that will crown a Grapefruit League and a Cactus League champion. Those tournaments are expected to take four days during spring training, with the 2027 event set for March 19-22.
Houston Astros in Spring Breakout
While not all the players in the pool will play, 28 of Houston’s Top 30 prospects, according to MLB Pipeline, are part of the roster pool. That includes Neyens, along with the franchise’s No. 1 overall prospect, outfielder Kevin Alvarez.
Neyens played his prep baseball at Mount Vernon High School, about an hour away from Seattle. He committed to Oregon State but passed on college after he signed a slot bonus offer of more than $4 million with Houston. The Astros opted to send him to their complex in West Palm Beach instead of dropping him into their minor league system.
The 6-foot-4 left-handed infielder has a 65 grade on his power on the 20-80 scouting scale. Already 210 pounds, he projects as a power hitter in the Majors, which is why many scouts see him moving to third base.
Alvarez, an outfielder, was signed by the Astros during last year’s international signing period for $2 million. The Cuba native worked out in the Dominican Republic in anticipation of signing a deal. He was terrific in his pro debut in the Dominican Summer League, as he slashed .301/.419/.455 with a .874 OPS, including two home runs and 33 RBI. He’s expected to begin 2026 with either the Florida Complex League Astros or Class-A Fayetteville.
Several other notable Astros prospects are part of the player pool, including starter Miguel Ullola, who was in Major League camp until he was optioned back to minor league camp earlier this week. Former first-round pick and catcher Walker Janek is part of the roster, along with another former first-round pick, infielder Brice Matthews, who made his Major League debut last season.
Rockies Superstar Prospects Fill MLB Spring Breakout Game Player Pool
One of the best things about the spring breakout games is it gives fans an opportunity to see every franchise’s future up close and personal. The Colorado Rockies will be no exception. The stars will clearly be out.
When Major League Baseball released the player pools for the spring bracket breakout games on Thursday, the Rockies found 29 of their top 30 prospects, as ranked by MLB Pipeline, on the list. That included recent first-round picks like Ethan Holliday and players that could make the Major League opening day roster like Zac Veen.
Colorado Rockies prospects will face Arizona Diamondbacks prospects on March 21 at their shared facility at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m. mountain.
Starting next year, the Spring Breakout is moving to a single-elimination tournament that will crown a Grapefruit League and a Cactus League champion. Those tournaments are expected to take four days during spring training, with the 2027 event set for March 19-22.
Colorado Rockies in Spring Breakout
The game could be Rockies fans’ first chance to see Holliday up close. The No. 4 overall pick last season is the son of former Rockies star Matt Holliday. Expectations are massive for him after he signed a $9 million bonus. In his pro debut at Fresno, Holliday slashed .239/.357/.380 with two home runs and six RBI.
Colorado’s first-round pick in 2024, Charlie Condon, is also part of the player pool. He has been on fire at Major League spring training, where he’s making a play for an opening day job either at first base or as a back-up outfielder. Last season in the minor leagues he slashed .268/.376/.444 with 14 home runs and 58 RBI. he also shined in the Arizona Fall League, where he slashed .337/.439/.434 with one home run and 13 RBI in 22 games.
Veen became “clean and sober” in the offseason, reshaped his body and the narrative of his career. He made his MLB debut last year but still qualifies to be a prospect. In spring training, he has slashed .286/.412/.714 with two home runs and four RBI. He’s making a play for one of the final outfield spots on the opening day roster.
Also part of the player pool is Rockies minor league player of the year and pitcher Roldy Brito, along with rising star outfielder Robert Calaz and infielder Roc Riggio, who was acquired from the New York Yankees last year in the Ryan McMahon deal. All three are unlikely to play in the Majors this season but are trying to set themselves up for a shot in 2027.
Donald Trump Settles Beef With
During the celebratory evening at the White House honoring Inter Miami for winning last year’s Major League Soccer Cup, MLB unexpectedly grabbed some of the spotlight as Alex Rodriguez showed up as one of the night’s main attractions.
While POTUS Donald Trump is usually only occasionally vocal about what’s happening in MLB, he showed on Thursday that he follows the game more closely than people might think. Reportedly, along with the Inter Miami squad, the former Yankees star and current Timberwolves co-owner Rodriguez was in the East Room for the event, and Trump used the moment to playfully address his long-running beef with A-Rod.
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“Trump shouted out his ‘friend’ Alex Rodriguez, who was in attendance at the event,” USA Sports reported.
While Donald Trump reminiscing about his fanboy moment with Alex Rodriguez might not seem unusual now, it does feel a bit strange if you remember how critical he used to be of A-Rod during his playing days.
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Reportedly, Trump talks about being friendly with Rodriguez, as he even hosted him in the Oval Office on Thursday, but that wasn’t always the case. Before entering politics, Trump regularly blasted the former Yankee star. He once called Rodriguez a “druggie,: argued that the Yankees should cancel his contract, and even claimed that “it was only d—s” that made him such a great player.
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So even though the president posed for photos with A-Rod in the Oval Office ahead of the ceremony and later gave him a shout-out during his remarks in the East Room, saying he was a “big fan,” their relationship clearly hasn’t always been this friendly.
And wait, because Trump’s criticism didn’t stop there. He also aimed at MLB as a whole, suggesting the league isn’t doing things the way it used to. But what exactly is wrong? He didn’t really spell it out. But echoing comments he’s made before, when he criticized the league for being woke, Trump said baseball simply isn’t “as hot: right now as it once was.
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So while A-Rod may have finally earned a clean chit from the president after all these years, it seems MLB still has a few things to fix in Trump’s eyes.
This is a developing story…
Trump criticizes MLB during Inter Miami White House celebration
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The celebration revolved around a soccer team, but President Donald Trump was talking baseball at the White House on Thursday afternoon.
More specifically, his displeasure with the current MLB product.
Trump was hosting Inter Miami CF, the 2025 MLS Cup champions featuring world soccer legend Lionel Messi, when he decided to interject a bit of baseball into the conversation.
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Who is Gregory Soto: Everything you should know about the player ahead of WBC, Wife, Parents, Net worth, contract, and more
Dominican pitcher Gregory Soto has emerged as one of Major League Baseball’s most dynamic left-handed relievers in recent years. Known for his electric fastball and competitive edge, Soto has built a reputation as a high-leverage bullpen arm. From humble beginnings in the Dominican Republic to becoming a two-time MLB All-Star, his journey is one of persistence and determination.
Who is Gregory Soto? Everything to know
Gregory Soto was born on February 11, 1995, and is a Dominican professional baseball pitcher. He grew up in Bajos de Haina, Dominican Republic, before signing as an international free agent at the age of 17. Moving to the United States to pursue his dreams brought challenges, including adapting to a new language and culture.
However, through consistent hard work and perseverance, he has gone on to become a two-time MLB All-Star. Let’s take a closer look at his journey and how he rose to prominence in Major League Baseball.
Who are Gregory Soto’s parents? All you need to know
Gregory Soto’s mother is Georgina Soto, while his father’s name is Gregorio Soto. They have definitely instilled the Dominican passion and pride in their son, which is often seen by fans on the baseball field.
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Gregory Soto also has a brother named Jose Soto Barrea. The baseball star is not really public about his family, but often features his father in his social media posts. In fact, he also shared an adorable picture with his mother back in 2021 on X.
He often posts pictures not only with his parents, but also with his wife and children. There are several posts on social media where he is proudly standing with his whole family, reflecting the strong bond he shares with the people he loves.
Who is his wife? Meet Weather and Traffic Anchor Raengel Solis
Gregory’s wife is Raengel Solis, a well-known TV anchor and presenter. She mainly oversees the Traffic and Weather departments. Throughout her career, she has received four Emmy Awards, a testament to her remarkable work and contributions to the industry.
She currently works at Telemundo 47 in New York City, a position she has held since 2018. Before joining Telemundo 47, she worked for Telemundo 49 in Tampa, Florida. Raengel has consistently demonstrated her expertise and professionalism throughout her career in journalism. Her commitment to delivering accurate and reliable news to viewers is reflected in her experience, which dates back to 2011.
In fact, back in 2009, she also showcased her versatility and talent by finishing as the fifth runner-up in the prestigious Miss Dominican Republic beauty pageant.
The couple has been married since 2020. Two years later, on February 15, 2022, they welcomed a new addition to their family—a baby boy named Grencell Soto.
Understanding Gregory Soto’s MLB contract: salary, net worth, and more
Gregory Soto signed a 1-year, $7.75 million contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates for the 2026 season. As a 31-year-old left-handed reliever and two-time All-Star, he brings high-stakes experience to the roster after splitting the 2025 season between the Baltimore Orioles and the New York Mets.
Soto signed a 1-year, $7,750,000 contract with the Pirates, including $7,750,000 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $7,750,000. In 2026, Soto will earn a base salary of $7,750,000 while carrying a total salary of $7,750,000.
Over the course of his MLB career, Soto has earned several multi-million-dollar contracts through arbitration and free agency. Because of his consistent role as a late-inning reliever and All-Star selections, his estimated net worth is believed to be in the range of $5–10 million, although exact figures are not publicly disclosed.
More on his professional career, stats, records, and more
As of the end of the 2025 MLB season, Gregory Soto has appeared in 391 games over seven seasons, posting a career 4.26 ERA with 56 saves. A two-time All-Star (2021, 2022), he has built a reputation as a power left-handed reliever with a high strikeout ability.
He began his MLB journey with the Detroit Tigers before later playing for the Philadelphia Phillies, Baltimore Orioles, and New York Mets. Known for his triple-digit fastball and aggressive pitching style, Soto has often been trusted in late-inning, high-pressure situations throughout his career.
MLB Career Summary (2019–2025)
What do you think about his career trajectory? Tell us in the comments below.
MLB players union gearing up for CBA fight and lockout
TAMPA — With just under nine months to go until the current Collective Bargaining Agreement is set to expire, both MLB and the Major League Baseball Players Association have been battening down the hatches for what appears to be increasingly likely next winter: a lockout.
While the two sides are set to begin bargaining some time next month, the looming battle is expected to center on the possibility of a salary cap — with owners pushing for it and the union staunchly against it.
“We’ve been preparing for this fight for years,” MLBPA interim executive director Bruce Meyer said Thursday morning at Steinbrenner Field, where the union made a stop on its annual spring tour of all 30 teams.
“We’re coming off a season of incredible momentum and great fan interest, as evidenced by attendance, ratings, anything you want to look at. If the league is saying they’re looking to shut that down, that doesn’t make a lot of sense for a lot of reasons. But we’ll be prepared for that and everything else that may be coming.”
Gerrit Cole, who has previously served on the executive subcommittee, described the meeting with the PA as “very informative, very thorough.”
It came in the wake of Meyer replacing Tony Clark as the head of the union last month, after Clark resigned in the wake of an internal investigation that found he had an inappropriate relationship with his sister-in-law, who was hired by the MLBPA in 2023.
While Cole said he is trying to keep an “optimistic” view in the face of concerns of a lockout, he acknowledged that a salary cap is not the “answer to the questions that we’re trying to answer.”
“The sport is growing, the viewership is younger, the gate is up, the players’ pay is up, club appreciations are up,” Cole said. “Obviously there is a whole list of concerns. … I’m optimistic that through good conversations, through a lot of deliberation and some tense moments, ultimately the best will come out.”
Meyer said that the union has never thought that salary caps were in the best interest of players.
“We see no reason to change that view,” he said.
Meyer also added that salary caps “don’t really guarantee competitive balance,” indicating that baseball has the best competitive balance as opposed to the other major sports, which all have salary caps.
“The problem we have in baseball is not with the teams that are trying to win games and trying to spend money,” Meyer said. “It’s with teams that maybe aren’t trying as hard as they can. That’s the problem with competition in baseball.”
Oswaldo Cabrera will make his spring debut on Friday night, starting at shortstop against the Rays in his first game action since breaking his ankle and suffering ligament damage last May.
“Excited for him,” manager Aaron Boone said. “Obviously it’s been a pretty long road for him. It’s been exciting to see some of the improvement he’s made over the last few weeks.”
Cody Bellinger returned to the lineup Thursday for the first time in a week after dealing with a stiff back.
He played four innings in right field and went 0-for-1 with a walk in a rain-shortened 15-0 loss to the Twins at Steinbrenner Field.
“Felt really good,” said Bellinger, who is scheduled to play left field Friday. “Felt 100 percent.”
The Yankees made a round of cuts Thursday, optioning RHP Chase Hampton to Double-A Somerset and reassigning him, RHP Travis MacGregor and RHP Drake Fellows to minor league camp.
A’s GM Leaves Door Open for Kyler Murray to Return to Baseball
After the Cardinals opted to release quarterback Kyler Murray, he’s set have a number of suitors once he enters free agency. And not just from the NFL.
Though Murray opted to pursue a career in football, the Athletics have left the door open for him to play MLB if he so chooses.
“Kyler is an elite NFL quarterback, and I’m sure there are plenty of opportunities for him to continue his football career,” Athletics general manager David Forst told MLB.com on Wednesday. “That said, he and his baseball representatives know that we’re always open to him exploring a return to baseball with the A’s if that time ever comes.”
Murray played college baseball and football, hitting .296 with 10 home runs and 47 RBIs for the Sooners in 2018. The A’s drafted Murray with the No. 9 pick in the 2018 MLB draft and Murray signed with the team, planning to report to spring training following his 2018 season of football with Oklahoma. However, after winning the Heisman trophy in 2018, Murray opted to forgo a career in baseball and enter the NFL draft. If Murray were to ever change his mind and want to play baseball, the A’s still hold his MLB rights.
For now though, Murray appears ready to continue his NFL career with a new team. After deciding to head to the NFL, Murray went on to become the No. 1 pick in the 2019 NFL draft. He made two Pro Bowls with the Cardinals and led them to the playoffs in 2021, but never found long-term success with the franchise, who released him after seven seasons.
As Murray addressed the news of his release, he said “I believe my best ball is in front of me.”
With few great options available at quarterback this offseason, Murray certainly could have his pick in terms of which team he lands on next. A number of highly-drafted quarterbacks such as Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold have gone on to have stellar third, fourth or even fifth acts, and Murray could follow in those footsteps.
The Vikings are the current betting favorite to land Murray as they look to pair J.J. McCarthy alongside another experienced veteran. After the Vikings’ success working with Darnold and Daniel Jones, Murray could look to join a quarterback guru in Kevin O’Connell, who could help him play his best football. There could be other teams as well, including possibly the Jets, Dolphins or even Falcons. If Murray ever grows tired of the NFL though, he’ll have the A’s to fall back on.
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A’s GM Shares Interesting Status Report on Former First
Kyler Murray is undoubtedly set to be one of the biggest names to watch in the ongoing NFL offseason after the Arizona Cardinals reportedly told the quarterback they plan to release him. But there could be an interesting twist in this upcoming saga, at least if the baseball team that drafted Murray has anything to say about it.
A’s general manager David Forst recently told MLB.com that the team is
Complete coverage: NFL free agency preview
General manager and president of football operations Brandon Beane wants Knox to return to Buffalo for the 2026 season, but his $17.068 million cap hit next season is the third highest among NFL tight ends. Here’s a glance at the tight ends available in free agency.
Life is hard, relatively speaking, for running backs. Their shelf life is shorter than other positions, and the NFL moves on quickly.
The Buffalo Bills are clearly set with Josh Allen at quarterback, but with backup Mitch Trubisky a pending free agent, the Bills have some work to do. Not only that, but they’ll want to keep an eye on the free-agent quarterback market, knowing that free-agency often ebbs and flows based off quarterback movement.
Insider Delivers Big Update on Vikings’ QB Situation
The Minnesota Vikings QB situation continues to unfold as free agency approaches. After missing the playoffs last season, the Vikings are looking to ensure it doesn’t happen in 2026 because of the inconsistent play from their signal-caller.
Minnesota appears to be connected to every QB who is or could be available this offseason, as the team leaves no stone unturned to improve the position. Whether it’s a QB that can challenge J.J. McCarthy or one that replaces him, it appears all options are on the table this offseason.
Amid the speculation surrounding the position, ESPN’s Vikings reporter Kevin Seifert shared an update on the team’s QB situation, especially after news emerged this week that Kyler Murray is expected to be released once the new league year starts.
“Last week at the [NFL Combine], the Vikings officials Rob Brzezinski and Kevin O’Connell said they were going to look at every option to improve their quarterback play,” Seifert said on a March 4 edition of SportsCenter. “If you were to sort of make a list of the quarterbacks who are likely to be available in free agency, Kyler Murray is right at or near the top of the list.
“I think most people around the league would tell you that, and a lot of people in the Vikings organization would tell you that he has the best chance of improving their quarterback play.”
Vikings Are Keeping All Options Open to Upgrade QB Position
Nonetheless, while Murray might be a top target for the Vikings, Seifert stresses that all options are on the table, including Geno Smith, should the Las Vegas Raiders decide to cut ties with him.
“It’s important to note that he is not the only quarterback that they consider in that top tier,” Seifert added. “I think if Geno Smith were to become available, if the Las Vegas Raiders were to release him, then that would also be another quarterback the Vikings would consider strongly. We’ll see who’s available next week when the market opens and how they delineate that.”
If Seifert’s information is accurate, it does appear that the Vikings want a QB who has starting experience and would likely win any competition with McCarthy during training camp and preseason.
It will be interesting to see if Minnesota lands one of the QBs and what happens with McCarthy as he either steps up his game or sees someone else take the starting job.
Would Minnesota Revisit Aaron Rodgers Interest?
Moreover, Seifert shed light on the Aaron Rodgers situation with the Vikings and whether or not Minnesota intends to rekindle that interest from last offseason, or having the veteran QB get another year old stops that.
“There was definitely interest last year. I don’t think they have ruled him out. They certainly had some interest last year. Some people in the organization did. We first have to find out for sure if he’s ready to play and wants to play, and that he, if so, if he’s going to go to Pittsburgh or not. I would not consider that among the top considerations that they have right now, but it does fall in the category of not ruling anybody out.”
SEC Program Hit With Reality Check After $1.6 Million QB Declares for NFL Draft
Following a legend is a difficult task. No matter how much talent a player has, standing in the shoes of an illustrious predecessor can be a humbling task. For every Steve Young lurking behind a Joe Montana, there’s a Mac Jones following after Tom Brady.
In fact, college football writer Stewart Mandel recently pointed out on SEC team that he sees likely taking a step backward in 2026. It’s not because the team’s new QB lacks for talent– no, he’s an elite national recruit. But as a freshman, can he follow a Heisman Trophy runner-up? Can anyone?
Sure, Mandel argues, Vanderbilt pulled off a recruiting coup in keeping five-star QB Jared Curtis at home. Curtis had committed to Georgia early in the recruiting process, but the Commodores were able to flip his commitment late in the season leading up to Early Signing Day and signed their top-ranked prep QB ever. But all is not roses for the Commodores.
True Frosh Struggles for Even Talented QBs?
Mandel writes,
A’s willing to bring former MLB draft pick Kyler Murray after Cardinals exit
Could Kyler Murray change sports?
One MLB club certainly wouldn’t mind.
Murray, who is expected to be released by the Arizona Cardinals ahead of the new NFL year, was selected by the A’s as the No. 9 overall pick in the 2018 MLB Draft.
He eventually went back to Oklahoma, though, winning the Heisman Trophy and getting taken as the top overall pick in the NFL.
That all but ended his baseball-playing career.
But the A’s are keeping the door open as Murray is soon to be without an NFL team.
“Kyler is an elite NFL quarterback and I’m sure there are plenty of opportunities for him to continue his football career,” A’s general manager David Forst told MLB.com. “That said, he and his baseball representatives know that we’re always open to him exploring a return to baseball with the A’s if that time ever comes.”
Murray, an outfielder, signed a $4.6 million contract with the A’s after the 2018 draft, with the deal allowing him to play college football with the Sooners before coming to the baseball team the next year.
However, in February of ’19, Murray posted a statement to Twitter where he said he had changed his mind and he was going to pursue professional football.
“Moving forward, I am firmly and fully committing my life and time to becoming an NFL quarterback,” Murray wrote. “Football has been my love and passion my entire life. I was raised to play QB, and I very much look forward to dedicating 100% of myself to being the best QB possible and winning NFL championships.”
Murray played two seasons on Oklahoma’s baseball team, hitting .261/.381/.466 with 10 home runs and 53 RBIs.
Before the 2019 season, he ranked as the A’s No. 4 prospect on MLB Pipeline, with a 50/80 overall grade.
The A’s, meanwhile, have a young core of major leaguers — particularly in their lineup — that makes them a promising team in the American League West.
They inked All-Star shortstop Jacob Wilson and outfielder Tyler Soderstrom to seven-year extensions this offseason as they look to improve upon a 76-win 2025. Fangraphs projects the team to have a four-win improvement in 2026.
Murray said Tuesday after the news of his Arizona departure that he was “sorry” he “failed” the Cardinals. He finished his Arizona tenure with a 38-48-1 record, 20,460 passing yards and 3,193 rushing yards. He should still have plenty of suitors in the NFL, with the Jets potentially being one of them.
But if he wants to take a different swing path, the A’s are open and willing.
Did NY Giants’ Jaxson Dart Get Fair Ranking Among Last Year’s NFL Starting QBs?
Few rookie quarterbacks actually thrive. Jayden Daniels, CJ Stroud, and Robert Griffin III are anomalies. First-timers tend to look shaky or maybe even unprepared. Jaxson Dart certainly made his share of mistakes, but the New York Giants signal-caller fared well overall, especially given the circumstances.
Many people believe he has the athleticism, arm talent, and confidence to develop into a highly productive quarterback. Dart posted modest numbers in his first NFL campaign; as a result, he is not getting much love in the rankings.
When rating the 62 quarterbacks who started at least one game last season, Nick Shook of NFL.com slotted the former Ole Miss star at No. 23, Dart being ranked below both Bryce Young and fellow rookie Tyler Shough.
Let the debate begin!
Although Dart can plausibly leap above players like Stroud and Bo Nix in the near future, he does not deserve to be placed inside the top-20 quite yet. But one can certainly argue that he should be above both Young and Shough right now.
Jaxson Dart had much to overcome
Dart completed 216-of-339 passes (63.7 percent) for 2,272 yards with 15 touchdowns and five interceptions in 12 starts. He also rushed 86 times for 487 yards and nine scores.
Because the Giants lost Malik Nabers to a torn ACL and had limited options at wide receiver, the 22-year-old was incentivized to run the ball more.
And that is what he did. Dart’s 162.3 passing yards per game were much lower than those of Shough (216.7) and Young (188.2), but he totaled more rushing yards than both of them combined.
The 6-foot-2 native of Kaysville, Utah, found ways to produce and kept the Giants in games more often than not. He should not be penalized for a compromised aerial attack.
Yes, the Giants’ offensive line was far sturdier than what Bryce Young or Tyler Shough had to work with, and yes, Jaxson Dart could have been sharper in the pocket, but he was fighting an uphill battle most of the year.
Veteran WR Darius Slayton and second-year tight end Theo Johnson combined for 13 drops. New York fired head coach Brian Daboll in the middle of the season, and Dart faced a brutal six-game stretch that included the Philadelphia Eagles, Denver Broncos, Eagles again, San Francisco 49ers, Chicago Bears, and New England Patriots (all playoff teams).
Are people sleeping on Dart?
The No. 25 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft helped the Giants upset Philly in Week 6 and put the team in position to beat both the Broncos and Bears. Shough and the New Orleans Saints won four of their last five games, but all of those victories came against squads with a losing record.
Although the Offensive Rookie of the Year runner-up deserves credit for completing 67.6 percent of his passes and posting 7.3 yards gained per pass attempt, one should consider context when juxtaposing his output with that of Dart.
Many seem to think Shough is the superior QB, and perhaps he will be, but it is hard to confidently make such an assertion at this time.
In any case, these rankings should just give Jaxson Dart more bulletin board material. He has plenty to keep him busy this offseason, but a little extra motivation could definitely help. Giants fans expect NFL.com’s list to look very different in 2027.
Former NFL Star Makes Bold Claim About Caitlin Clark’s Influence on Women’s Basketball
LeSean McCoy has never been one to shy away from a hot take, but his latest claim about Caitlin Clark might be his most audacious yet, placing her above every female athlete in history.
On Tuesday’s episode of Speakeasy, what began as a conversation about the “most influential white athlete” quickly shifted into something bigger. Whether you agree or not, McCoy declared the Indiana Fever star as the face of the WNBA.
“She top three, might be two. No, she is one. She’s the most influential women’s athlete of all time,” he said.
“I think Serena Williams was great. But who was watching women’s basketball? You wasn’t… I wasn’t… Then we get this girl like Steph Curry, and everybody watches it to this day. Women’s basketball is looked at like the NBA, like the NFL. They’ve got their own channels now on ESPN. When was the last time you heard people talking about women’s basketball on TV?… Now they’re going to talk about Luka, and they’re going to talk about Caitlin Clark.”
For McCoy, influence isn’t just about accolades; it’s about visibility. He argued that women’s basketball conversation now exists in mainstream sports media in a way it hadn’t before her arrival. But he didn’t just stop there.
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He also pointed out that Clark didn’t build her popularity through a traditional powerhouse program. Instead of choosing a blue-blood school, she stayed home with the Iowa Hawkeyes and transformed the program into a national attraction.
By the time she entered the WNBA as the No. 1 overall pick in 2024, Clark had already rewritten record books and drawn unprecedented television ratings to the women’s college game.
Her impact then carried over immediately to the Indiana Fever and the WNBA.
Behind her, the league enjoyed a surge in its viewership and became one of the most talked-about associations. However, not everyone feels the same way.
Caitlin Clark May Be the Spark, But Is She the Engine?
Her impact on the sport has been one of the most talked-about topics between critics, analysts, athletes, and fans.
Just a few days before McCoy’s declaration, Susie Piotrkowski offered a layered perspective on her impact.
Speaking at a Front Office Sports event, the ESPN executive acknowledged that while Caitlin Clark may be the entry point for many fans, it is the league itself that is making them stay.
“I say this in quite literally the most positive way possible: Caitlin’s a gateway drug for some people to women’s sports,” Piotrkowski said. “If that brought you in, I’m going to keep you here.”
The long-term growth of women’s basketball, in her view, depends on infrastructure, not just individual star power.
“Well, she’s been out of college basketball for a long time,” she added. “I’m going to tell you why it is more than that. And that’s okay if you’ve come by way of her; now I’m going to tell you why it’s necessary for you to stay here.”
Clark’s games have dominated ratings charts, often outperforming other matchups by a wide margin. Yet during stretches of the 2025 season when she was sidelined with injury, the league still maintained stability.
Which is what makes McCoy’s proclamation so compelling.
Is Clark the single most influential force in women’s sports history? Or is she the spark that accelerated something already building? Tell us your thoughts!
$1.8B MLB Franchise Offers Kyler Murray NFL Exit After Cardinals Release
Just as his NFL career hits a major roadblock, Kyler Murray has been thrown an unexpected lifeline from the sport he left behind. After the Cardinals made their plans known, a surprising top voice from a $1.8 billion MLB franchise has offered a new opportunity for Murray. Turns out, the signal caller could get a second shot at baseball, the very sport he ditched to play in the NFL.
“Kyler is an elite NFL quarterback, and I’m sure there are plenty of opportunities for him to continue his football career,” Oakland Athletics general manager David Forst said via reporter Ari Meirov’s post on X. “That said, he and his baseball representatives know that we’re always open to him exploring a return to baseball with the A’s if that time ever comes.”
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Forst’s statement comes in the wake of a confirmed divorce between the Cardinals and Kyler Murray. After a series of highs and lows throughout the tenure, the QB’s foot injury and the financial implications of his contract served as the last straw. The franchise that once viewed him as the franchise centerpiece is now ready to move on from him before the new league year begins, unless a trade materializes before then.
As Kyler gears up for free agency, the Oakland Athletics have made their intentions clear. For the record, Murray’s connection with baseball dates back to his time at Oklahoma. After transferring from Texas A&M in 2016, he initially served as a backup QB before developing a deep interest in baseball. He was an outfielder who played mostly in center field.
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His genuine talent for the sport caught the attention of the Athletics, who picked him in the first round of the 2018 MLB Draft. Despite his $4.66 million deal with the franchise, Murray ultimately chose football the following year. He entered the NFL as Arizona’s top pick in 2019. His actions led to serious consequences, as MLB placed him on its restricted list and forfeited the majority of his signing bonus. However, the Athletics retained his baseball rights.
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And now, they are willing to give him another chance after eight years. The Athletics are currently playing in Sacramento and will eventually move to their permanent home in Las Vegas. Adding a name like Murray to a group that includes young talents could be exciting, even if he starts in the minors. Murray’s comeback would be a low-risk, high-interest bet, but the final decision still rests with him. Meanwhile, the player released a statement after the news of his potential release came to light.
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Kyler Murray thanks Arizona fans in an emotional message
After months of speculation swirling around Kyler Murray’s future, Arizona has made up its mind. He won’t be part of the franchise anymore unless there’s a deal before the league year kicks off. On the financial side, his release has benefited the Cardinals immensely. He already has $36.8 million guaranteed for the 2026 season. Keeping him on the roster past March 16 would trigger another large contract guarantee.
Arizona would have to pay him $19.5 million in guarantees for the 2027 season. Releasing him before that deadline helps the Cardinals avoid long-term salary commitments. Also, the 28-year-old reportedly preferred to test the market rather than face uncertain situations with the Cardinals. After the developments, Murray took to X to thank everyone who remained by his side throughout the journey.
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“To everyone that supported me and showed kindness to my family and me during my time in AZ, from the bottom of my heart, thank you,” Murray wrote on Monday. “I wanted nothing more than to be the one to end the 77-year drought for this organization. I am sorry I failed us.”
“I wish this community and my brothers nothing but the best. I am no stranger to adversity; I am prepared for whatever’s next. I trust in God and my work ethic. I truly believe my best ball is in front of me, and I look forward to proving it. Godspeed.”
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During his seven seasons with Arizona, Murray delivered several productive seasons while his team had limited success. They made the postseason only once, in 2021. On a personal level, he earned two Pro Bowl selections. He also became one of just five players in NFL history to post over 20,000 passing yards and over 3,000 rushing yards within their first seven seasons.
However, Murray’s performances were marred by recurring injuries. After playing every game in 2019, 2020, and 2024, he missed time in several seasons. Most recently, he sustained a foot injury, which limited him to just five games last year. Reports suggest he has two primary destinations in mind. If the options don’t work out, the Athletics are holding out hope for his baseball debut.
NFL Free Agency Guide for All 32 Teams: Needs, Fits and Each Club’s Path to Success
NFL free agency is upon us.
Beginning next Monday, March 9 at 12:00 p.m. ET, teams will be permitted to negotiate with representatives of pending free agents during what the NFL dubs its “legal tampering period,” which takes place ahead of the official start of the new league year on March 11 at 4:00 p.m. ET. At that point, all contracts tied to the 2025 season expire—triggering a free-for-all for unrestricted free agents to sign with the teams of their choosing.
Prior to the madness, Sports Illustrated has put together a guide for all 32 teams, outlining their pending free agents, positions of needs, available targets, and what will ultimately make the next several weeks successful for each club.
Free Agency Guide for All 32 NFL Teams
Arizona Cardinals
Atlanta Falcons
Baltimore Ravens
Buffalo Bills
Carolina Panthers
Chicago Bears
Cincinnati Bengals
Cleveland Browns
Dallas Cowboys
Denver Broncos
Detroit Lions
Green Bay Packers
Houston Texans
Indianapolis Colts
Jacksonville Jaguars
Kansas City Chiefs
Las Vegas Raiders
Los Angeles Chargers
Los Angeles Rams
Miami Dolphins
Minnesota Vikings
New England Patriots
New Orleans Saints
New York Giants
New York Jets
Philadelphia Eagles
Pittsburgh Steelers
San Francisco 49ers
Seattle Seahawks
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tennessee Titans
Washington Commanders
Arizona Cardinals
2026 free agents: Kyler Murray, QB; Jonah Williams, RT; Jalen Thompson, S; Justin Jones, DL; Calais Campbell, DL; Kelvin Beachum, RT; Aaron Brewer, LS; Greg Dortch, WR; L.J. Collier, edge; Zay Jones, WR; Blake Gillikin, K; Will Hernandez, RG; Pharaoh Brown, TE; Matt Haack, P; Simi Fehoko, WR; Josiah Deguara, TE; Michael Carter, RB; Channing Tindall, LB; Darren Hall, CB; J.J. Russell, LB; Zonovan Knight, RB; Travis Vokolek, TE; Chad Ryland, K; Joshua Karty, K, P.J. Mustipher, DL; Starling Thomas V, CB; Emari Demercado, RB; Starling Thomas V
Position needs: QB, OL, DL
Best available FA: Malik Willis, QB; Tyler Linderbaum, OL; John Franklin-Myers, DL
Free agency will be a success if the Cardinals … can sign a bridge quarterback following the release of Kyler Murray and add young talent to build a foundation for new head coach Mike LeFleur. —Mike Kadlick
Atlanta Falcons
2026 free agents: David Onyemata, DL; Leonard Floyd, edge; Kaden Elliss, LB; Bradley Pinion, P; Arnold Ebiketie, edge; Dee Alford, CB; Feleipe Franks, TE; Elijah Wilkinson, LG; DeAngelo Malone, edge; Ronnie Harrison, S; Zane Gonzalez, K; Josh Woods, LB; Easton Stick, QB; Kentavius Street, edge; Khalid Kareem, edge; Teagan Quitoriano, TE; Elijah Garcia, DL; Sam Roberts, DL; David Sills, WR; Jovaughn Gwyn, LG; Tyler Allegeier, RB; Lacale London, DL; Tyrone Wheatler Jr., RT; Malik Heath, WR; Natrone Brooks, CB; Emory Jones, QB
Position needs: OL, DL, CB
Best available FA: Braden Smith, OT; John Franklin-Myers, DL; Alonte Taylor, CB
Free agency will be a success if the Falcons… continue to build up their defensive line while adding a protector for Michael Penix Jr. ahead of his first season in new head coach Kevin Stefanski’s offense. —MK
Baltimore Ravens
2026 free agents: Dre’Mont Jones, DL; Alohi Gilman, S; DeAndre Hopkins, WR; Kyle Van Noy, edge; Tyler Linderbaum, C; Ar’Darius Washington, S; Patrick Ricard, FB; Tylan Wallace, WR; Joseph Noteboom, LT; David Ojabo, edge; Brent Urban, DL; Taven Bryan, DL; Chidobe Awuzie, CB; Jake Hummel, LB; Tyler Huntley, QB; Daniel Faalele, RG; Charlie Kolar, TE; Jordan Stout, P; Isaiah Likely, TE; Keaton Mitchell, RB; Carl Jones Jr., edge; Dayton Wade, WR; Corey Bullock, C; Basil Okoye, DL; Carl Jones Jr. ED
Position needs: WR, OL, DL
Best available FA: Alec Pierce, WR; Tyler Linderbaum, OL; John Franklin-Myers, DL
Free agency will be a success if the Ravens … not only add talent around franchise quarterback Lamar Jackson, but also build up a strong defensive unit, playing to new coach Jesse Minter’s strengths as a defensive play-caller. —MK
Buffalo Bills
2026 free agents: Joey Bosa, DE; DaQuan Jones, DL; Larry Ogunjobi, DL; Matt Milano, LB; A.J. Epenesa, ED; David Edwards, LG; Tre’Davious White, CB; Mitchell Trubisky, QB; Sam Franklin, S; Damar Hamlin S; Reggie Gilliam, FB; Cameron Lewis, CB; Jordan Phillips, DL; WR Brandin Cooks; Matt Prater, K; Jordan Poyer, S; Darius Slay, CB; Shaq Thompson, LB; Gabe Davis, WR; Mitch Wishnowsky, P; Darnell Savage, S; Baylon Spector, LB; Ryan Van Demark, RT
Position needs: WR, DL, S
Best available FA: Alec Pierce, WR; Trey Hendrickson, edge; Nick Cross, S
Free agency will be a success if the Bills … are able to sign Pierce or another top downfield threat to improve Josh Allen’s supporting cast. Bonus points if the Bills are able to shore up their run defense and/or pass rush by signing one of the top defensive linemen available. —Eva Geitheim
Carolina Panthers
2026 free agents: D.J. Wonnum, edge; Yosh Nijman, OT; Cade Mays, C; Austin Corbett, RG; Brady Christensen, LG; Rico Dowdle, RB; Christian Rozeboom, LB; Hunter Renfrow, WR; Sam Martin, P; David Moore, WR; Nick Scott, S; Jake Curhan, RT; Isaiah Simmons, LB; Krys Barnes, LB; Robert Rochell, CB; Trevis Gipson, edge; Akayleb Evans, CB; D’Anthony Bell, S; Damarri Mathis, CB; LaBryan Ray, DL; Thomas Incoom, edge; James Mitchell, TE; Claudin Cherelus, LB
Position needs: OL, WR, edge, LB
Best available FA: Braden Smith, OT; Alec Pierce, WR; Trey Hendrickson, edge; Quay Walker, LB
Free agency will be a success if the Panthers … upgrade their front seven. The Panthers finished tied for 28th in sacks last season and could take steps forward as a defense if they address their pass rush and run defense. —EG
Chicago Bears
2026 free agents: Kevin Byard, S; Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, edge; Ryan Bates, RG; Andrew Billings, DL; Chris Williams, DL; Amen Ogbongbemiga, LB; Durham Smythe, TE; Case Keenum, QB; Jonathan Owens, S; Jaquan Brisker, S; Travis Homer, RB; Olamide Zaccheaus, WR; Nick McCloud, CB; Jalen Reeves-Maybin, LB; Devin Duvernay, WR; Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, S; Scott Daly, LS; Nashon Wright, CB; Jordan McFadden, LG; Daniel Hardy, edge; D’Marco Jackson, LB; Braxton Jones, LT; Dominique Robinson, edge, Elijah Hicks CB; Theo Benedet, LT; Jalen Reeves-Maybin, LB
Position needs: C, edge, LB, S
Best available FA: Tyler Linderbaum, C; Trey Hendrickson, edge; Quay Walker, LB; Nick Cross, S
Free agency will be a success if the Bears … bolster their defense. The Bears have room to better their defense at all three levels, and if they can add some quality pieces in free agency, it will help them take even more steps forward in 2026. –EG
Cincinnati Bengals
2026 free agents: Trey Hendrickson, edge; Joseph Ossai, edge; Geno Stone, S; Joe Flacco, QB; Noah Fant, TE; Cordell Volson, LG; Lucas Patrick, RG; Marco Wilson, CB; Cam Taylor-Britt, CB; Dalton Risner, LG; Cameron Sample, edge; Brian Asamoah, LB; Tycen Anderson, S; Jake Browning, QB; Jaxson Kirkland, RG
Position needs: edge, DL, LB
Best available FA: Jaelan Phillips, edge; Quay Walker, LB
Free agency will be a success if the Bengals … add to their defense. The Bengals saw growth from some of their young defensive players toward the end of the 2025 season, but they still could use more help on that side of the ball, particularly at edge with Trey Hendrickson leaving the franchise. –EG
Cleveland Browns
2026 free agents: Joel Bitonio, LG; Wyatt Teller, RG; David Njoku, TE; Cam Robinson, LT; Jack Conklin, RT; Ethan Pocic, C; Devin Bush, LB; Teven Jenkins, RG; Shelby Harris, DL; Corey Bojorquez, P; Jerome Ford, RB; Rayshawn Jenkins, S; DeAndre Carter, WR; Jerome Baker, LB; Martin Emerson, CB; Cameron Thomas, edge; Trayveon Williams, RB; Sam Webb, CB; Tre Avery, CB; Sam Kamara, DL; D’Angelo Ross, CB; Blake Whiteheart, TE; Anthony Kendall, CB; Winston Reid, LB; Malachi Corley, WR; Jamari Thrash, WR; Brenden Bates, TE; Mohamoud Diabate, LB; Ronnie Hickman, S
Position needs: OL, WR, LB
Best available FA: Tyler Linderbaum, OL; Braden Smith, OL; Alec Pierce, WR; Quay Walker, LB
Free agency will be a success if the Browns … rebuild their offensive line and bring in a trusted receiver. The entire Browns’ starting offensive line is hitting free agency, and Cleveland must fix the line to give their offense a shot at improving. —EG
Dallas Cowboys
2026 free agents: Logan Wilson, LB; Kenneth Murray, LB; Donovan Wilson, S; Dante Fowler Jr., edge; Robert Jones, G; Jadeveon Clowney, edge; Payton Turner, edge; Sam Williams, edge; Jack Sanborn, LB; Miles Sanders, RB; Jalen Tolbert, WR; C.J. Goodwin, CB; Corey Ballentine, CB; Hakeem Adeniji, LT; Brock Hoffman, C; Juanyeh Thomas, S; T.J. Bass, G; Brandon Aubrey, K; Josh Butler, S; Reddy Steward, CB
Position needs: DL, LB, CB
Best available FA: Trey Hendrickson, edge; Quay Walker, LB; Jaylen Watson, CB
Free agency will be a success if the Cowboys … re-sign George Pickens and actually are proactive about adding talent on the defensive side of the ball. The Cowboys typically shy away from big free agency signings, but they cannot solely rely on the draft to address that side of the ball. —EG
Denver Broncos
2026 free agents: John Franklin-Myers, DL; Alex Singleton, LB; Adam Trautman, TE; P.J. Locke, S; Justin Strnad, LB; J.K. Dobbins, RB; Michael Burton, FB; Marcedes Lewis, TE; Geron Christian, LT; Adam Prentice, FB; Sam Ehlinger, QB; Lil’Jordan Humphrey, WR; Sam Mustipher, C; Matt Henningsen, DL; Ja’Quan McMillian, CB; Lucas Krull, TE; Dondrea Tillman, edge; Devon Key, S; Jordan Jackson, DL; Alex Pelczewski, LT; Jaleel McLaughlin, RB; Nate Adkins, TE; Tyler Badie, RB; Delarrin Turner-Yell, S
Position needs: RB, WR, LB
Best available FA: Kenneth Walker III, RB; Alec Pierce, WR; Quay Walker, LB
Free agency will be a success if the Broncos … add to their skill-position group. The Broncos have a pretty complete team, but could use some more weapons for Bo Nix, especially if they do not re-sign J.K. Dobbins. —EG
Detroit Lions
2026 free agents: D.J. Reader, DL; Graham Glasnow, C; Alex Anzalone, LB; Amik Robertson, CB; Kalif Raymond, WR; Levi Onwuzurike, DL; Roy Lopez, DL; Marcus Davenport, edge; Grant Stuard, LB; Daniel Thomas, S; Al-Quadin Muhammad, edge; Avonte Maddoz, CB; Kayode Awosike, RT; Kyle Allen, QB; Jalen Mills, CB; Arthur Maulet, CB; Zeke Turner, LB; Zach Cunningham, LB; Trystan Colon-Castillo, C; Anthony Firkser, TE; Rock Ya-Sin, CB; Jamarco Jones, LT; Shane Zylstra, TE; Tom Kennedy, WR; Trevor Nowaske, LB; Tyrus Wheat, edge; Malcolm Rodriguez, LB; Dicaprio Bootle, CB
Position needs: OL, RB, edge
Best available FA: Connor McGovern, C; Cade Mays, C; Tyler Allgeier, RB; Yetur Gross-Matos, edge
Free agency will be a success if the Lions … can lock down a starting-caliber center and replace David Montgomery. The offensive line needs some attention after the team parted ways with Graham Glasgow this offseason, and the running backs room will need to be addressed after Montgomery was traded to Houston. —Karl Rasmussen
Green Bay Packers
2026 free agents: Trevon Diggs, CB; Quay Walker, LB; John FitzPatrick, TE; Malik Willis, QB; Sean Rhyan, C; Zayne Anderson, S; Nick Niemann, LB; Kristian Welch, LB; Darian Kinnard, RT; Clayton Tune, QB; Romeo Doubs, WR; Aaron Mosby, edge; Emmanuel Wilson, RB; Josh Whyle, TE; Lecitus Smith, RG; Bo Melton, WR; Jonathan Ford, DL; Kingsley Enagbare, edge; Christopher Brooks, RB; Rasheed Walker, LT; Brenton Cox Jr., edge; Donovan Jennings, RT; Kamal Hadden, CB
Position needs: OL, CB, DL
Best available FA: Tyler Linderbaum, C; Cade Mays, C; Jamel Dean, CB; Sheldon Rankins, DT
Free agency will be a success if the Packers … can improve their secondary. Green Bay’s defense had only seven interceptions last season, fifth-fewest in the NFL and 10 less than it had in 2024. Upgrading at cornerback will be crucial for the Packers this offseason. —KR
Houston Texans
2026 free agents: Christian Kirk, WR; Denico Autry, edge; Sheldon Rankins, DL; Derek Barnett, edge; E.J. Speed, LB; Folorunso Fatukasi, DL; Tim Settle, DL; Tommy Townsend, P; M.J. Stewart, S; Nick Chubb, RB; Trent Brown, RT; Naquan Jones, DL; Dare Ogunbowale, RB; Kurt Hinish, DL; Braxton Berrios, WR; Ed Ingram, RG; Christian Harris, LB; Harrison Bryant, TE; Myles Bryant, CB; Ja’Marcus Ingram, CB; Damone Clark, LB; Brandon Hill, S
Position needs: OL, RB, DL
Best available FA: Braden Smith, OL; Travis Etienne Jr., RB; John Franklin-Myers, DL
Free agency will be a success if the Texans … are able to boost their offensive line and running game. The Texans ranked just 30th in EPA per rush in 2025 and 32nd in ESPN’s run block win rate metric. Improving the personnel would likely better the running game, and in turn provide more support to C.J. Stroud after a disastrous postseason run. —EG
Indianapolis Colts
2026 free agents: Braden Smith, RT; Samson Ebukam, edge; Tyquan Lewis, edge; Kwity Paye, edge; Mo Alie-Cox, TE; Germaine Pratt, LB; Danny Pinter, RG; Alec Pierce, WR; Neville Gallimore, DL; Nick Cross, S; Ameer Abdullah, RB; George Odum, S; Laquon Treadwell, WR; Chris Wormley, DL; Chris Lammons, CB; Salvon Ahmed, RB; Rodney Thomas, CB; Jacob Phillips, LB; Blake Grupe, K; Tyler Goodson, RB; Cameron Mitchell, CB; Segun Olubi, LB; D.J. Montgomery, WR; Buddy Johnson, LB; Eric Johnson, DL; Luke Tenuta, LT; Andrew Ogletree, TE; Austin Ajiake, LB
Position needs: QB, WR, LB, edge
Best available FA: Daniel Jones, QB; Alec Pierce, WR; Nakobe Dean, LB; K’Lavon Chaisson, edge
Free agency will be a success if the Colts … can keep their offensive nucleus intact while also fortifying the defense. Retaining Daniel Jones and Alec Pierce will be priorities for the team, but Indianapolis also needs to fortify its defense that surrendered the second-most passing yards per game last year. —KR
Jacksonville Jaguars
2026 free agents: Dyami Brown, WR; Emmanuel Ogbah, edge; Devin Lloyd, LB; Travis Etienne Jr., RB; Andrew Wingard, S; Greg Newsome II, CB; Tim Patrick, WR; Dennis Gardeck, edge; Quinton Morris, TE; Montaric Brown, CB; Josh Cephus, WR; Christian Braswell, CB
Position needs: RB, edge, DL, CB
Best available FA: Kenneth Walker III, RB; Trey Hendrickson, edge; John Franklin-Myers, DL; Jaylen Watson, CB
Free agency will be a success if the Jaguars … can continue to add talent to a team that already overachieved last season. Liam Coen’s program is in place. Now they must continue building the roster. —MK
Kansas City Chiefs
2026 free agents: Jawaan Taylor, RT; Travis Kelce, TE; Michael Danna, edge; Marquise Brown, WR; Charles Omenihu, edge; Jack Cochrane, LB; Nazeeh Johnson, S; Jerry Tillery, DL; James Winchester, LS; Kareem Hunt, RB; Bryan Cook, S; Juju Smith-Schuster, WR; Derrick Nnadi, DL; Leo Chenal, LB; Mike Pennel, DL; Robert Tonyan Jr., TE; Deon Bush, S; Gardner Minshew, QB; Mike Edwards, S; Janarius Robinson, edge; Dameon Pierce, RB; Cole Christiansen, LB; Tyquan Thornton, WR; Joshua Williams, CB; Mike Caliendo, LG; QB; Keontay Ingram, RB; Eric Scott, CB; Matt Araiza, P; Jaylen Watson, CB; Isiah Pacheco, RB; Nikko Remigio, WR
Position needs: CB, RB, WR, DL
Best available FA: Jaylen Watson, CB; Breece Hall, RB; Alec Pierce, WR; Trey Hendrickson, edge
Free agency will be a success if the Chiefs … improve their skill-position group to surround Patrick Mahomes with better weapons. A number of Chiefs running backs and receivers will be free agents, so Kansas City is in need of depth as well. –MK
Las Vegas Raiders
2026 free agents: Malcolm Koonce, edge; Daniel Carlson, K; Kenny Pickett, QB; Eric Stokes, CB; Elandon Roberts, LB; Tristin McCollum, CB; Lonnie Johnson Jr., S; Raheem Mostert, RB; Ian Thomas, TE; Dylan Parham, LG; Jacob Bobenmoyer, LS; Terrell Edmunds, S; Tyler Lockett, WR; Jamal Adams, LB; Darnay Holmes, CB; Stone Forsythe, LT; Jon Rhattigan, LB; Devin White, LB; Zamir White, RB; Jordan Meredith, C; Alex Bachman, WR; Kyu Blu Kelly, CB; Thomas Booker, DL; Charles Snowden, edge; Will Putnam, C
Position needs: WR, OL, DL
Best available FA: Alec Pierce, WR; Jauan Jennings, WR; Tyler Linderbaum, OL; Trey Hendrickson, edge
Free agency will be a success if the Raiders … can improve their receiving core around their next quarterback, which is expected to be Fernando Mendoza when they pick No. 1 in the draft. The Raiders could also use some more pass rush and defensive line help, particularly if they do end up trading Maxx Crosby. —EG
Los Angeles Chargers
2026 free agents: Khalil Mack, edge; Mekhi Becton, G; Trey Pipkins, RT; Najee Harris, RB; Zion Johnson, LG; Trevor Penning, LT; Keenan Allen, WR; Tyler Conklin, TE; Odafe Oweh, edge; Denzel Perryman, LB; Benjamin St-Juste, CB; Da’Shawn Hand, edge; Trey Lance, QB; Del’Shawn Phillips, LB; Josh Harris, LB; Tony Jefferson, S; Marcus Maye, S; Bobby Hart, RT; Andre James, C; Hassan Haskins, RB; Tucker Fisk, TE; Jaret Patterson, RB; Otito Ogbonnia, DL; Savion Washington, T; Kendall Williamson, S; Kimani Vidal, RB; Jamaree Salyer, RG; Deane Leonard, CB
Position needs: IOL, WR, edge, DL
Best available FA: Tyler Linderbaum, OL; Alec Pierce, WR; Jaelan Phillips, edge
Free agency will be a success if the Chargers … can significantly improve their interior offensive line, so they are able to protect Justin Herbert next season. If Khalil Mack and/or Odafe Oweh depart, they will also need help along the defensive line. —EG
Los Angeles Rams
2026 free agents: Tutu Atwell, WR; Tyler Higbee, TE; Kamren Curl, S; Jimmy Garoppolo, QB; D.J. Humphries, LT; Roger McCreary, CB; Jake McQuaide, LS; Nick Vannett, TE; Ahkello Witherspoon, CB; Troy Reeder, LB; Ronnie Rivers, RB; Cobie Durant, CB; Keir Thomas, edge; Nick Hampton, edge, Derion Kendrick, CB
Position needs: WR, DB
Best available FA: Wan’Dale Robinson, WR; Nick Cross, S
Free agency will be a success if the Rams … can add depth. The Rams have a pretty complete team—especially after trading for Trent McDuffie, but could use depth in the secondary and at receiver. —EG
Miami Dolphins
2026 free agents: Tyreek Hill, WR; James Daniels, RG; Zach Wilson, QB; Kader Kohou, CB; Ifeatu Melifonwu, CB; Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, WR; Ashtyn Davis, S; Larry Borom, RT; Liam Eichenberg, C; Jake Bailey, P; Benito Jones, DL; Darren Waller, TE; Elijah Campbell, CB; Rasul Douglas, CB; Kendall Lamm, RT; Joe Cardona, LS; Artie Burns, CB; Willie Gay Jr., LB; Alexander Mattison, RB; K.J. Britts, D’Wayne Eskridge, WR; Germain Ifedi, RT; Caleb Johnson, LB; Riley Patterson, K; Daniel Bruskill, RG; Cedrick Wilson Jr., WR; Jack Jones, CB; A.J. Green, CB; Cole Strange, LG; Quinton Bell, edge; Yodny Cajuste, LT; Greg Dulcich, TE; Cameron Goode, edge; Matthew Butler, DL; Julian Hill, TE; Obinna Eze, LT; Kendall Sheffield, CB
Position needs: QB, OL, TE, DB
Best available FA: Malik Willis, QB; Rasheed Walker, OL; Isaiah Likely, TE; Jaylen Watson, CB
Free agency will be a success if the Dolphins … set themselves up for the future. The Dolphins are currently in the process of rebuilding their roster, and aren’t planning to be big spenders in free agency. If they can correctly begin their rebuild, that would be a win for Miami this offseason. —EG
Minnesota Vikings
2026 free agents: Eric Wilson, LB; Jeff Okudah, CB; Tavierre Thomas, CB; Justin Skule, LT; Ryan Wright, P; Carson Wentz, QB; Andrew DePaola, LS; Fabian Moreau, CB; John Wolford, QB; Brett Rypien, QB; Matt Nelson, LT; Ty Chandler, RB; Jalen Nailor, WR; Ivan Pace Jr., LB; Ben Sims, TE; Bo Richter, edge; Zavier Scott, WR
Position needs: QB, OL, S
Best available FA: Malik Willis, QB; Kyler Murray, QB; Tyler Linderbaum, C; Nick Scott, S
Free agency will be a success if the Vikings … are able to figure out what their plan at quarterback is going to be. Will they stick with J.J. McCarthy? Sign a veteran? Trade for one? Whichever path they choose, it’ll be important for them to have a direction under center heading into the NFL draft. —MK
New England Patriots
2026 free agents: Stefon Diggs, WR; K’Lavon Chaisson, LB; Jaylinn Hawkins, S; Austin Hooper, TE; D’Ernest Johnson, RB; Vederian Lowe, OT; Thayer Munford Jr., OT; Khyiris Tonga, DL; Alex Austin, CB; Tommy DeVito, QB; Jack Gibbens, LB; Jaquelin Roy, DL; Isaiah Iton, DL; Deneric Prince, RB; Jack Westover, TE
Position needs: WR, OL, DL, S
Best available FA: Alec Pierce, WR; Tyler Linderbaum, C; Trey Hendrickson, edge; Coby Bryant, S
Free agency will be a success if the Patriots … build on their surprise Super Bowl run by addressing their top positions of need: wide receiver and edge rusher. The obvious slam dunk would be to sign Alec Pierce. Trey Hendrickson, Jaelen Phillips and Odafe Oweh are intriguing options for New England as well. —MK
New Orleans Saints
2026 free agents: Taysom Hill, TE; Demario Davis, LB; Cameron Jordan, edge; Foster Moreau, TE; Landon Young, RT; Dillon Radunz, RT; Alontae Taylor, CB; Luke Fortner, C; Jack Stoll, TE; Jonathan Bullard, DL; Ugochukwu Amadi, CB; Michael Davis, CB; Jonah Williams, DL; Terrell Burgess, S; Dante Pettis, WR; Chris Rumph II, edge; John Ridgeway, DL; Mason Pline, TE
Position needs: WR, OL, DB
Best available FA: Alec Pierce, WR; Tyler Linderbaum, C; Jaylen Watson, CB
Free agency will be a success if the Saints … build up the infrastructure around quarterback Tyler Shough. Pairing Chris Olave with another top-flight wide receiver and adding to their offensive line should be at the top of New Orleans’s list. —MK
New York Giants
2026 free agents: Russell Wilson, QB; Bobby Okereke, LB; Jermaine Eluemunor, RT; Evan Neal, G; Rakeem Nunez-Roches, DL; Greg Van Roten, G; Wan’Dale Robinson, WR; Casey Kreiter, LS; Chris Manhertz, TE; Auston Schlottmann, C; Joshua Ezeudu, G; Aaron Stinnie, G; Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles, LB; Victor Dimukeje, EDGE; Cordale Flott, CB; Neville Hewitt, LB; Gunner Olszewski, WR; Daniel Bellinger, TE; Dane Belton, S; Isaiah Hodgins, WR; Zaire Barnes, EDGE; Caleb Murphy, EDGE; Micah McFadden, LB; D.J. Davison, DL; Nic Jones, CB; Bryce Ford-Wheaton, WR; Ryan Miller, WR; Art Green, CB
Position needs: OL, LB
Best available FA: Rasheed Walker, OT; Devin Lloyd, LB; Kaden Elliss, LB
Free agency will be a success if the Giants … are able to upgrade their offensive line in order to establish better protection for Jaxson Dart. Dart was hit a lot during his rookie season, and keeping him out of harm’s way will be crucial for the franchise. —KR
New York Jets
2026 free agents: Andre Cisco, S; Quincy Williams, LB; Tyrod Taylor, QB; John Simpson, G; Alijah Vera-Tucker, T; Tony Adams, S; Nick Folk, K; Josh Reynolds, WR; Isaiah Oliver, S; Breece Hall, RB; John Metchie III, WR; Kris Boyd, CB; Keke Nwangwu, RB; Stone Smartt, TE; Jelani Woods, TE; Chukwuma Okorafor, T; Andrew Beck, FB; Mykal Walker, LB; Khalen Saunders, DT; Tyler Johnson, WR; Khalil Herbert, RB; Jay Tufele, DL; Max Mitchell, T; Micheal Clemons, EDGE; Xavier Newman-Johnson, G; Hendon Hooker, QB; Ja’Sir Taylor, CB; Cam Jones, LB; Jowon Briggs, DL; Marcelino McCrary-Ball, LB
Position needs: QB, WR, LB, S, CB, edge
Best available FA: Kyler Murray, QB; Romeo Doubs, WR; Devin Lloyd, LB; Jaquan Brisker, S; Jamel Dean, CB
Free agency will be a success if the Jets … can rebuild their depleted defense. New York surrendered 29.6 points per game last season, second-most in the NFL. The Jets parted ways with key pieces like Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams at the trade deadline, as well as Jermaine Johnson in the offseason. —KR
Philadelphia Eagles
2026 free agents: Dallas Goedert, TE; Jahan Dotson, WR; Jaelan Phillips, LB; Azeez Ojulari, edge; Reed Blankenship, S; Brandon Graham, edge; Braden Mann, P; Joshua Uche, edge; Adoree Jackson, CB; Kylen Granson, TE; Matt Pryor, RG; Fred Johnson, RG; A.J. Dillon, RB; Nakobe Dean, LB; Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, edge; Marcus Epps, S; Brett Toth, LT; Ben VanSumeren, LB; Sam Howell, QB; Grant Calcaterra, TE; Luke Felix-Fualalo, LT
Position needs: TE, edge
Best available FA: Isaiah Likely, TE; Jaelan Phillips edge
Free agency will be a success if the Eagles … re-sign Jaelan Phillips. With extensions ahead for the team’s best young players, they do not have room to make a ton of signings, but can prioritize bringing back players they like such as Phillips. —EG
Pittsburgh Steelers
2026 free agents: Aaron Rodgers, QB; Kyle Dugger, S; Jonnu Smith, TE; Isaac Seumalo, LG; Miles Killebrew, S; Daniel Ekuale, DL; Dean Lowry, DL; Cole Holcomb, LB; Kenneth Gainwell, RB; Isaiahh Loudermilk, edge; Andrus Peat, LT; Chuck Clark, S; Scott Miller, WR; Marquez Valdes-Scantling, WR; Tre Flowers, CB; Jabrill Peppers, S; Max Scharping, RG; Donald Parham, TE; Asante Samuel Jr., CB; James Pierre, CB; Jack Driscoll, RT; Skylar Thompson, QB; Corliss Waitman, P; Calvin Austin III, WR; Jeremiah Moon, edge; Esezi Otomewo, edge; Ryan McCollum, C; Connor Heyward, TE; Jacob Slade, DL, Brandon Johnson, WR
Position needs: QB, OL, RB, WR, DB
Best available FA: Aaron Rodgers, QB; Isaac Seumalo, OL; Kenneth Walker III, RB; Alec Pierce, WR; Jaylen Watson, CB
Free agency will be a success if the Steelers … upgrade their offense. The Steelers could boost their offensive line with Seumalo set to hit free agency, as well as their skill-position group. Outside of DK Metcalf, the Steelers don’t have many reliable playmakers, and could use more explosiveness on that side of the ball. —EG
San Francisco 49ers
2026 free agents: Yetur Gross-Matos, edge; Jauan Jennings, WR; Jordan Elliott, DL; Spencer Burford, RG; Jason Pinnock, S; Kevin Givens, DL; Luke Gifford, LB; Kendrick Bourne, WR; Skyy Moore, WR; Ben Bartch, LT; Brian Robinson Jr., RB; Eric Kendricks, LB; Thomas Morstead, P; Curtis Robinson, LB; Trent Taylor, WR; Clelin Ferrell, edge; Eddy Piñiero, K; Patrick Taylor, RB; Matt Hennessy, C; Garrett Wallow, LB; Tarron Jackson, edge; Sam Okuayinonu, edge; Jake Tonges, TE; Chase Lucas, CB; Robert Beal Jr., edge; Kalia Davis, DL
Position needs: OL, WR, DL, K
Best available FA: Braden Smith, OL; Alec Pierce, WR; John Franklin-Myers, DL; Eddy Piñiero, K
Free agency will be a success if the 49ers … can add depth to their team, particularly along the trenches. The 49ers finished last in sacks in 2025, and even with players returning from injury, they desperately need more talent and depth along the line. The 49ers also need to address receiver and special teams, such as their punter, kicker and punt-returner. —EG
Seattle Seahawks
2026 free agents: Josh Jones, RG; Rashid Shaheed, WR; Boye Mafe, edge; Kenneth Walker III, RB; Josh Jobe, CB; Chazz Surratt, LB; Coby Bryant, S; Brady Russell, TE; Brandon Pili, CB; Cody White, WR; Tariq Woolen, CB; Dareke Young, WR; Drake Thomas, LB; Jake Bobo, WR; Chris Stoll, LS; A.J. Finley, S; Shane Lemieux, LG
Position needs: RB, WR, DB
Best available FA: Kenneth Walker III, RB; Alec Pierce, WR; Coby Bryant, S
Free agency will be a success if the Seahawks … Add another receiver and running back or re-sign Shaheed and Walker. The Seahawks are also set to lose a number of defensive backs in free agency, and could use more depth there if they aren’t able to re-sign any of their free agents. —EG
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
2026 free agents: Mike Evans, WR; Haason Reddick, edge; Lavonte David, LB; Jamel Dean, CB; Greg Gaines, DL; Logan Hall, DL; Charlie Heck, RT; Sterling Shepard, WR; Kindle Vildor, CB; Rachaad White, RB; Teddy Bridgewater, QB; J.T. Gray, S; Dan Feeney, LG; Deion Jones, LB; Anthony Walker Jr., LB; Michael Jordan, LG; Cade Otton, TE; Ko Kieft, TE; Christian Izien, S; Sean Tucker, RB; Markees Watts, edge; Evan Deckers, LS; Connor Bazelak, QB; Tyler Mclellan, RT
Position needs: DL, edge, LB
Best available FA: John Franklin-Myers, DL; Trey Hendrickson, edge; Quay Walker, LB
Free agency will be a success if the Buccaneers … improve their defense. The Buccaneers’ defense was among the biggest disappointments in 2025, and Tampa Bay needs to ensure they have a better unit and depth to avoid letting that repeat next season. —EG
Tennessee Titans
2026 free agents: Lloyd Cushenberry III, C; Kevin Zeitler, RG; Arden Key, edge; Sebastian Joseph-Day, DL; Xavier Woods, S; Van Jefferson, WR; Brandon Allen, QB; Johnny Hekker, P; Morgan Cox, LS; Jihad Ward, edge; Blake Hance, RT; Joey Slye, K; Corey Levin, C; Joe Bachie, LB; James Lynch, DL; Olisaemeka Udoh, LT; James Proche, WR; Jalyn Armour-Davis, CB; Darrell Baker Jr., CB; Mike Brown, S; Julius Chestnut, RB; Kemon Hall, CB; Kair Elamn, CB; Chigoziem Okonkwo, TE; Jerrick Reed, S; Bryce Oliver, WR; Anfernee Orji, LB; C.J. Ravenell, edge; Garrett Dellinger, LG
Position needs: IOL, WR, edge, DB
Best available FA: Tyler Linderbaum, OL; Alec Pierce, WR; Trey Hendrickson, edge; Jaylen Watson, CB
Free agency will be a success if the Titans … get Cam Ward some help. Ward showed good growth over the course of his rookie season, and the Titans can support his development even more by surrounding him with a better receiving core. —EG
Washington Commanders
2026 free agents: Marshon Lattimore, CB; Deebo Samuel, WR; Tyler Biadasz, C; Bobby Wagner, LB; Marcus Mariota, QB; Zach Ertz, TE; Von Miller, edge; Jonathan Jones, CB; Austin Ekeler, RB; Andrew Wylie, RT; Noah Brown, WR; Jacob Martin, edge; Noah Igbinoghene, CB; Trenton Scott, RT; Josh Johnson, QB; Jeremy McNichols, RB; Preston Smith, edge; Eddie Goldman, DL; George Fant, LT; Antonio Hamilton, CB; Jeff Driskel, QB; Chris Moore, WR; Sheldon Day, DL; Jalyn Holmes, DL; Chase Edmonds, RB; Lucas Niang, RT; Treylon Burks, WR; Drake Jackson, edge; Tyree Jackson, TE; Chris Rodriguez Jr., RB; Jake Moody, K; Chris Paul, LG
Position needs: C, WR, edge, DL, LB, DB
Best available FA: Tyler Linderbaum, OL; Jauan Jennings, WR; Trey Hendrickson, edge; Quay Walker, LB; Jaylen Watson, CB
Free agency will be a success if the Commanders … bolster their defense and getting younger is the most pressing for the team to be able to rebound in 2026. —EG
NHL Trades: Sabres Get their D-Man in Reported Deal
The Buffalo Sabres could be making one of the biggest NHL trades at this year’s deadline. The club has been on the lookout for a blueline upgrade, one that may be right around the corner.
The Sabres have been in the thick of trade chatter ever since turning things around this season. Now, with a playoff spot all but assured, Buffalo is going all-in.
That situation has led the Sabres to land the defenseman they have been looking for, getting Colton Parayko in a reported deal with the St. Louis Blues.
According to insider Darren Dreger, the deal is in place with the last details finalizing before the deal officially goes through.
Dreger reported, as part of this week’s NHL trades, that the Blues would get towering defenseman Radim Mrtka, the ninth overall pick from the 2025 NHL Draft, and a first-round pick as part of the compensation.
That much seems to be only a part of the package for Parayko. The 32-year-old was a staple for Team Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics, helping the Canadian side earn a silver medal.
At the NHL level, Parayko was a member of the 2019 Blues squad that won the Stanley Cup. He’s played in 781 NHL games, amassing over 300 points.
It seems like it’s only a matter of time before one of the most interesting NHL trades goes through.
More NHL Trades Coming Down the Pipeline for Blues
The rumored deal involving Parayko won’t likely be the last of the NHL trades reportedly in the works for the Blues. According to prevailing chatter, St. Louis could have a deal in place for Robert Thomas.
The team that’s making the rounds in a Thomas deal is the Utah Mammoth. The Mammoth are apparently willing to pony up. As such, the Blues could jettison a couple of veteran pieces, virtually restocking their prospect cupboard and draft capital in one fell swoop.
Avs need to bring Denver hero Nazem Kadri home at NHL trade deadline
No more Mr. Naz Guy. I mean, did you see those Stars late Tuesday night, Chris MacFarland?
No, no, no. Not the ones skating in Calgary. The ones circling around Lian Bichsel’s head after he messed around with Nazem Kadri.
While the Avalanche were taking a chainsaw to Anaheim, Kadri got busy trying to re-arrange Bichsel’s central incisors. It was glorious.
About five minutes into the second stanza at the Scotiabank Saddledome, Bichsel, Dallas’ 6-foot-7 defenseman, pushed Kadri into the boards behind the net. Naz retaliated with his right elbow. As you do.
The two danced into the crease. Bichsel shoved the 6-foot Kadri, against whom he’s got an advantage of 7 inches in height and 46 pounds in weight, twice — until they were past the right post.
Naz had enough. He landed a left jab on the big lug’s jaw. Then a right cross with stick still in hand. The Swiss D-man dropped a quick 1-2 on Kadri’s head before a pack closed in to separate the pair.
Seven inches.
Forty-six pounds.
Ain’t the size of the dog in the fight.
It’s the size of the fight in the dawg.
Go get that dawg, Chris.
The NHL trade deadline expires just after lunch on Friday. As of late Wednesday afternoon, MacFarland, the Avs’ general manager, was still looking for a third-line or second-line center. And Kadri — one of the heroes of Colorado’s 2022 Stanley Cup champions, Denver’s favorite “bad” cop — was looking to join a playoff team again.
“We’ve had internal chats,” Kadri told NHL.com last month when asked about his trade stock.
“Obviously, those we’ll keep private, but, yeah, we’ve had discussions and communicated. I think that’s what makes it great, is having that open line of conversation and just being able to understand where everybody’s at.”
Kadri is 35 and on the fourth season of a seven-year, $49-million deal on a team going nowhere. The Avs (41-10-9) are the best team in the NHL.
They’re also in a heck of a position to get this generational core of MacKinnon-Makar-Landeskog another summer parade. If, of course, they can patch up some holes before the trade window shuts tight.
“Because other teams are doing the same. So if you don’t change, then you may fall behind,” Avs defenseman Josh Manson told me recently. “Obviously, it’s a risk upsetting (locker room) culture or whatever it may be. But I think you always have to be trying to fine-tune.
“And that’s up to management. I think (they’ll make) the best decision for our team moving forward because, at the end of the day, I think it reflects on them the most. Besides how the players and the way they play, how the team and what’s been assembled reflects on them.”
To that end, Kadri the player ticks a whole bunch of boxes. He’s physical. He’s scrappy. He’s clever. He’s persistent. He’s stubborn. He’s not just a pest. He’s a skilled pest.
Yeah, but …
Sure, Kadri’s scoring (41 points in 60 games as of Wednesday morning) is down from last season’s pace. But his face-off win percentage (47.9) is up, and a better clip than Parker Kelly (36.3), Ross Colton (46.2) and Gavin Brindley (38.2) have been producing to date.
Yeah, but …
Naz also hasn’t missed a regular-season game since leaving Denver as a free agent four summers ago.
Yeah, but …
I know, I know.
That contract.
It’s … not … ideal. PuckPedia.com said Wednesday that the Avs had $10.8 million in “trade deadline” cap space to play with. But three more seasons left on the books for Kadri, at $7 million per year? Woof.
Basically, if you’re the Avs, you’d be paying for the back end, and probably the worst end, of a deal the Kroenkes weren’t willing to give Naz three years ago — at the peak of his value. Unless someone else is willing to help offset those costs, that’s a tricky needle to thread for a 35-year-old forward.
Especially because Cale Makar is about to get paid. The best D-man in the world is eligible for an extension on July 1. And the next one should be a doozy, a deal that’s expected to hike his cap number from $9 million this season to $18 million or $19 million going forward. The eye of that needle shrinks by the day.
Still, a team with a 30-year-old Nathan MacKinnon, a 33-year-old Landeskog, a 34-year-old Brock Nelson, a 34-year-old Manson and a 40-year-old Brent Burns has kind of already laid its cards out for everyone to see. Whatever chips you’ve got left, you’re pushing them to the center of the table.
When he’s right, Naz is as chippy as they come. Remember 2022? The March To Lord Stanley is an HBO spin-off series in and off itself. To produce enough episodes to get you to June, you need compelling villains or anti-heroes who relish the smoke and keep the narrative moving.
It takes a village to win a Cup. Every series is a self-contained storyline waiting for someone to grasp the spotlight.
Four springs ago, Naz grabbed it by the thorax. If the ’22 playoffs were a “Game of Thrones” arc, Kadri was The Avs’ Sandor Clegane, Denver’s Hound.
Jordan Binnington. Water bottles. Threats. Sweet revenge. They don’t get over the line without him. Or beat the Lightning in Game 4 of those Finals on that Florida slush pond.
According to longtime NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, Kadri has 13 teams on his no-trade list. Colorado isn’t believed to be one of them.
“I mean, you want to try and be as deep as you possibly can going into this (postseason), right? ” Avs coach Jared Bednar reflected late last month. “We like the guys we have. They’re all doing a great job, no question. If we can get deeper, stronger in certain positions, then I’m sure C-Mac and Joe (Sakic) and their staff will try and do that.”
Kadri has put up 11 points and four goals over his last 10 games vs. the Stars. Let that dawg in. Let him eat. In these playoffs, Naz Guys get the silverware. Nice Guys go home.
NHL Trade Rumors: Oilers Find Take for Mangiapane
One of the biggest NHL trade rumors hit the wire on Wednesday night, with reports surfacing about the Edmonton Oilers finally finding a taker for beleaguered winger Andrew Mangiapane.
Mangiapane has been on the trade block for weeks now. With very limited interest in the 29-year-old, the Oilers had no choice but to waive him last week in order to clear cap space.
Now, a new report has emerged from insider Frank Seravalli. According to the latest NHL trade rumors, the Oilers will be sending Mangiapane to the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for veteran forward Jason Dickinson.
Additionally, pieces will be going to each team. The chatter posits that the Oilers will be sending a conditional pick. Considering the Blackhawks are doing the Oilers a solid, that pick is a 2027 protected first-rounder.
The Blackhawks will also be sending another piece the Oilers’ way to complete the deal. This has to be one of the most fascinating NHL trade rumors, as the Blackhawks don’t really seem like a team that could want someone like Mangiapane.
But the deal makes sense.
The Blackhawks will be retaining 50% on Dickinson’s $4.25 million cap hit. The 30-year-old will be a UFA this summer. As such, the Blackhawks don’t really lose much by making good on these NHL trade rumors.
As for the Oilers, they get out from under Mangiapane’s cap hit. That’s why the club can afford to make this deal happen.
NHL Trade Rumors Finally End for Mangiapane
The Oilers signed Mangiapane this past offseason, hoping to get a solid top-six winger who could potentially play with Connor McDavid. However, the Toronto native struggled out of the gate. That situation forced Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch to try him out at various points throughout the lineup.
Mangiapane’s ineffectiveness fueled initial NHL trade rumors. However, his no-trade clause quickly got in the way. The clause made it even harder for the Oilers to find a willing partner for Mangiapane.
The NHL trade rumors culminated with the Oilers waiving the former 30-goal scorer. But it seems the Mangiapane will finally get a fresh start in Chicago.
Dickinson Replacement for Janmark
Meanwhile, the Oilers were likely looking for a decent depth center following the loss of Mattias Janmark to injury. The Oilers won’t likely have the veteran center picking up the fourth line. As such, Dickinson makes sense for the Oilers.
Some of the NHL trade rumors surrounding the Oilers posited the club was looking for a middle-six forward, preferably a center. However, the cap situation and lack of available forwards made it challenging for the Oilers to find what they wanted.
So, the next-best thing is someone like Dickinson to pick up the slack. Depending on the situation, Dickinson could even move up to the third line, dropping another veteran, Adam Henrique, to the 4C role.
At the very least, the Oilers have options now. The trade with Chicago was expensive, but something that needed to happen before the March 6 trade deadline.
7 players Bruins could target at 2026 NHL trade deadline
Time is ticking for Don Sweeney and the Bruins when it comes to adding — or subtracting — from this Bruins roster before Friday’s NHL trade deadline.
Boston has the assets in place to try and add an impact player or two with Sweeney stressing that the Bruins aren’t expected to peruse the rental market as they try to build a sustainable contender in Boston.
After taking a look at Boston’s trade chips entering Friday’s 3 p.m. deadline, here are a few players the Bruins could target as they try to punch their ticket back into the postseason.
C Robert Thomas, St. Louis Blues
Stats: 12 goals, 23 assists in 43 games
Contract: Signed through 2030-31 season, $8.125 million AAV
The big fish on this trade market, Robert Thomas checks off plenty of boxes for Boston. An ascending roster looking to open a new contention window would receive a lift from Thomas — a 26-year-old, first-line center signed to a reasonable cap hit for six seasons.
A smooth playmaker, Thomas has already surpassed the 80-point threshold twice in his young career and could be a force if stapled to a line with David Pastrnak for the foreseeable future. Thomas could be a franchise fixture in Boston, but the cost to acquire him would be very steep.
St. Louis is looking at a long rebuild, but they don’t need to trade him by Friday, given his current contract. Boston has the means to make a compelling offer. But, it would require multiple first-round picks and blue-chip prospects to get the deal across the finish line.
Here’s a longer look at the pros and cons of a Thomas blockbuster deal for Boston.
F Conor Garland, Vancouver Canucks
Stats: 7 goals, 19 assists in 49 games
Contract: Signed through 2031-32 season, $6 million AAV
If Boston is looking for some additional scoring punch in its middle-six grouping, Conor Garland could be a fit. The 29-year-old forward would be a fan favorite in Boston, beyond the fact that he’s from Scituate.
Despite his smaller frame (5-foot-10, 165 pounds), Garland is a relentless forechecker and spark plug who tilts the ice in his team’s favor when he’s out on the ice.
Garland is a good player, but it seems unwise for a Bruins team still a year or two away from being a legitimate contender to prioritize a winger who might be more of a third-line force than a second-line talent. He’s a player you add to put a strong team over the top — a position that Boston isn’t in at this stage of their retool.
D Rasmus Ristolainen, Philadelphia Flyers
Stats: 1 goal, 5 assists in 23 games
Contract: Signed through 2026-27 season; $5.1 million AAV
Upgrading the right side of Boston’s D corps might be the most pressing need for Sweeney and his staff this season.
A glass-eater like Rasmus Ristolainen would fit in well on a Bruins team whose identity is rooted in tenderizing opposing puck carriers. Once a reckless player prone to costly D-zone miscues and poor discipline, Ristolainen’s game has quieted down as of late — with the 31-year-old skater developing into a physical and sturdy presence on the blue line.
D Justin Faulk, St. Louis Blues
Stats: 11 goals, 21 assists in 60 games
Contract: Signed through 2026-27 season; $6.5 million AAV
If Boston is looking for an immediate upgrade to its D corps for this season, Justin Faulk stands as a key addition. The veteran, right-shot defenseman eats a lot of minutes (22:30 average time on ice per game), can chip in on special teams, and generates a good amount of offense with 11 tallies on the season.
Faulk would shore up a critical area of Boston’s depth chart ahead of a potential playoff run. But, at 33 years old, he’s not exactly a long-term addition to a Bruins team that should still be focused on building up its roster for the next few seasons, rather than giving up a hefty package for a win-now asset.
D Simon Nemec, New Jersey Devils
Stats: 9 goals, 12 assists in 47 games
Contract: Signed through 2025-26 season; soon-to-be restricted free agent
The New Jersey Devils are reportedly taking calls on Simon Nemec, the 22-year-old blueliner who was selected second overall in the 2022 NHL Draft. Rather than target an older right-shot D like Ristolainen or Faulk, Boston could bank on future potential by dealing for a gifted puck mover with a high ceiling in Nemec.
Of course, the cost will be steep to pry Nemec out of New Jersey. He hasn’t been a transformative presence on the Devils’ defense, but the upside and skill are evident with a player who is averaging 19:42 of ice time per game this season.
He has some warts in his game that need to be corrected. But, Nemec could follow a similar career trajectory as Philip Broberg, a former top-10 pick from Edmonton who thrived in an increased role with a new team (St. Louis).
D Zach Whitecloud, Calgary Flames
Stats: 2 goals, 9 assists in 59 games
Contract: Signed through 2027-28 season; $2.75 million AAV
If Boston is looking for a long-term upgrade for a player like Andrew Peeke, Zach Whitecloud has some appeal as a no-frills, physical blueliner. He’d mesh well with the type of team Sturm and his staff are trying to build, but putting him higher than the third pair might be asking too much of him.
The Bruins already have no shortage of third-pairing options between Peeke, Henri Jokiharju, and even Mason Lohrei — who is skating on his weak side with Hampus Lindholm over the last few games.
F Owen Tippett, Philadelphia Flyers
Stats: 19 goals, 17 assists in 60 games
Contract: Signed through 2031-32 season; $6.2 million AAV
If Boston is adamant about adding a top-six fixture to their lineup, Owen Tippett might be a better option over Garland — given both his age (27) and higher upside. Tippett is a speedy forward with good size (6-foot-1, 210 pounds) and a nose for the net (soon-to-be four 20-goal seasons in Philly).
As Boston awaits the addition of top prospects like James Hagens and Dean Letourneau in the coming years, having a legitimate top-six winger in his prime like Tippett secured would be a prudent move for the Bruins. But, that proven production and agreeable long-term contract mean it’ll take at least a first and a few more assets to pry him from Philly.
Oilers acquire Jason Dickinson, Colton Dach from Blackhawks for Mangiapane, conditional 1st round pick
The Edmonton Oilers have struck another deal ahead of the NHL’s trade deadline with the Chicago Blackhawks.
The Oilers have acquired Jason Dickinson and Colton Dach for Andrew Mangiapane and a conditional first-round pick in 2027 that is top-12 protected, according to insider Frank Seravalli. The Blackhawks have retained 50 per cent of Dickinson’s contract, which would make his cap hit $2.125 million on the Oilers’ books.
Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported on Wednesday evening that the two teams were discussing the move, just two days after the Oilers plucked defenceman Connor Murphy from the Hawks.
The Oilers are making the move to fill a perceived hole at third-line centre, as Dickinson is renowned for his ability to play a key shutdown role, as evident by his ability to drive play defensively at a 20 per cent rate above league average, according to Hockey Viz. His overall contributions, meanwhile, equate to those of a high-end first-line centre,
It would also provide depth to the centre position with Curtis Lazar out for a month due to an undisclosed injury.
Colton Dach has three goals and nine points this season in 53 games, his first full-year in the NHL. He split time between the Blackhawks and the Rockford Ice Dogs of the AHL in 2024-25. The Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta product was a second-round pick in the 2021 NHL Draft.
Andrew Mangiapane has been rumoured to be on the trade block for multiple months, as general manager Stan Bowman’s free-agent signing hasn’t performed as hoped. He carried a $3.6 million cap hit.
Just like his former and now-again teammate Connor Murphy, Dickinson had a regular penalty-killing role with Chicago, the league’s best PK at 85.9 per cent. He was fourth in team ice-time amongst forwards on the PK, playing over 100 minutes shorthanded for the Blackhawks, according to Natural Stat Trick.
Dickinson believed he would be traded, as he was quoted in the Chicago Sun-Times saying his game is “well-built for playoffs.”
This season, he’s scored six goals and 13 points in 47 games. He’s currently in the final year of his two-year contract, with a cap hit of $4.25 million.
The contract came after Dickinson produced a career high offensively in 2023-24, scoring 22 goals and 35 points. That’s the only NHL season he’s scored double-digit goals.
“[Dickinson is] a great human, really even-keeled, got a great head on his shoulders, very self-accountable, looks in the mirror every day and wants to better himself,” coach Jeff Blashill said this week. “He’s been a really good piece for us.”
Originally drafted by the Dallas Stars in the first round in 2013, he spent six seasons there before joining Vancouver in 2021-22. After one season in VAN, he was traded to Chicago in October 2022.
Michael Menzies is an Oilersnation columnist and has been the play-by-play voice of the Bonnyville Pontiacs in the AJHL since 2019. With seven years news experience as the Editor-at-Large of Lakeland Connect in Bonnyville, he also collects vinyl, books, and stomach issues.
Mammoth bolster blueline, acquire MacKenzie Weegar from Flames
The Utah Mammoth have acquired Calgary Flames defenseman MacKenzie Weegar, bolstering their blueline as they seek their first playoff berth, an NHL source confirmed to ESPN.
The Mammoth sent defenseman Olli Maatta, prospect Jonathan Castagna and three 2026 second-round draft picks to the Flames for Weegar, a 32-year-old defenseman playing in his 10th NHL season.
Weegar had to waive his no-trade clause to facilitate the deal, which was first reported by Sportsnet. He’s signed through the 2030-31 season with a $6.25 million annual cap hit. His full no-trade clause becomes a 10-team no-trade list after next season.
To help make the money work under the cap, the Mammoth sent Maatta to the Flames. The 31-year-old veteran defenseman is signed through 2027-28 with a $3.5 million cap hit. He’s been the odd-man out of the Utah defense corps this season, playing just 22 games and averaging 12:10 in ice time after playing 70 games and averaging 19:55 last season.
Castagna, 20, is an unsigned 3rd-round draft pick (70th overall) in 2023. He’s a center in his third season with Cornell University and has 32 points in 29 games this season.
The three second-round picks include one belonging to the Mammoth; one from the New York Rangers; and one acquired from the Ottawa Senators in the 2023 Jakob Chychrun trade, back in the franchise’s previous incarnation as the Arizona Coyotes.
Weegar is looking to turn his career around with the Mammoth. His point totals have decreased over the last two seasons, and this campaign with the Flames has been disastrous: Just 3 goals and 18 assists in 60 games, skating to a minus-35, the worst rating in the NHL this season. The Mammoth are counting on Weegar rediscovering his game with a change in scenery and a new defense partner, as Utah could pair him with top defender Mikhail Sergachev.
Weegar goes from the third-worst team in the Western Conference to a Utah team that’s currently in the first wild card spot. The Mammoth are seeking their first playoff action since the franchise restarted in Salt Lake City in 2024.
Weegar traded to Mammoth by Flames for Maatta, Castagna, picks
MacKenzie Weegar was traded to the Utah Mammoth by the Calgary Flames on Wednesday for defenseman Olli Maatta, forward prospect Jonathan Castagna and three second-round picks in the 2026 NHL Draft.
Two of the second-round picks were previously acquired from the New York Rangers and Ottawa Senators.
The 32-year-old defenseman has 21 points (three goals, 18 assists) in 60 games for the Flames this season and is averaging 23:07 of ice time per game.
Weegar is in the third year of an eight-year, $50 million contract he signed with the Flames on Oct. 7, 2022. He was acquired by Calgary along with forward Jonathan Huberdeau in the trade which sent forward Matthew Tkachuk to the Florida Panthers on July 22, 2022.
Selected by Florida in the seventh round (No. 26) of the 2013 NHL Draft, Weegar has 272 points (62 goals, 210 assists) in 610 regular-season games for the Panthers and Flames and five points (one goal, four assists) in 20 Stanley Cup Playoff games.
Maatta has one assist in 22 games for the Mammoth this season. The 31-year-old was a first-round pick (No. 22) by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2012 NHL Draft. He has 196 points (42 goals, 154 assists) in 783 games for the Penguins, Chicago Blackhawks, Los Angeles Kings and Detroit Red Wings.
He won the Stanley Cup with the Penguins in 2015-16 and 2016-17 and has 27 points (five goals, 22 assists) in 85 playoff games. Maatta is in the first season of a three-year, $10.5 million contract ($3.5 million AAV) signed with Utah on March 3, 2025.
Castagna, a third-round pick (No. 70) by the Arizona Coyotes in the 2023 draft, has 32 points (14 goals, 18 assists) in 29 games at Cornell University this season.
The Mammoth (32-25-4) hold the first wild card into the playoffs from the Western Conference.
The Flames (24-29-7) are 14th in the West, 12 points behind the Seattle Kraken for the second wild card.
San Jose Sharks could benefit if Edmonton Oilers miss the NHL playoffs
SAN JOSE – Will the Edmonton Oilers make the playoffs this season?
The San Jose Sharks sure hope not.
Aiming to address a need for a third-line center before the NHL trade deadline, the Oilers on Wednesday traded forward Andrew Mangiapane and their 2027 first-round draft pick to the Chicago Blackhawks for center Jason Dickinson and forward Colton Dach.
With the deal, the conditional first-round selection the Sharks received from the Oilers last March, as part of a trade that sent defenseman Jake Walman to Edmonton, now becomes an unprotected pick.
Had the Oilers kept their 2027 first-round pick past Friday’s deadline, that conditional 2026 first-round pick San Jose received from Edmonton would have remained top-12-protected. That meant if the Oilers’ own first-round pick this year had landed in the top 12, for whatever reason, they had the option of transferring their 2027 first-round selection to San Jose instead.
The Oilers entered Wednesday in third place in the Pacific Division with 68 points. They were four points ahead of the Sharks, who have three games in hand and were, before Wednesday’s games, three points out of a playoff spot.
If the Oilers miss the playoffs this year, the first-rounder they have now traded to the Sharks will be in the NHL Draft Lottery. The first 16 selections of the draft are determined by the lottery, with the teams with the worst records having the best chances to win.
If the Oilers make the playoffs, that first-rounder the Sharks now own will land anywhere from 17th to 32nd overall, partially depending on how far Edmonton advances.
The Sharks also still have their own first-round pick this year and will be in the lottery as well if they miss the playoffs.
There is still a lot to be settled. Before Wednesday’s games, the top six teams in the Pacific Division were separated by just eight points and three teams, including the Sharks, were within five points of the second and final wild card spot now held by the Seattle Kraken, which has 67 points.
NHL Trades: Rangers Waiting for Reply on Wild Offer for Trocheck
The New York Rangers continue to make waves regarding potential NHL trades. The Blueshirts are reportedly waiting for a reply on a formal offer on the table from the Minnesota Wild.
Despite reports stating that Vincent Trocheck has said Western Conference teams are a no-go, the Wild aren’t giving up.
According to insider David Pagnotta, the Wild have made their formal pitch for Trocheck. Meanwhile, the Rangers are evaluating their options. The Wild also have their options open to other NHL trades.
One of the angles to consider here is Trocheck’s willingness to accept a trade to Minnesota. Assuming that Minnesota isn’t too far west for Trocheck’s liking, the deal could have a chance of going through.
Meanwhile, the Rangers are likely looking to see what else might be out there. There has been no shortage of suitors for Trocheck leading up to this year’s NHL trade deadline. So, it will be interesting to see if another team emerges with about a day and a half remaining to make NHL trades.
Rangers Not Likely to Let Trocheck Go for Peanuts
The expectation is that trading Vincent Trocheck won’t go down as one of the most disappointing NHL trades for the New York Rangers.
If anything, the goal will be to fetch a significant return for the 32-year-old. That might be feasible, considering the club won’t have to deal with the headwinds that characterized the Artemi Panarin negotiations.
That said, if the Wild’s offer is good enough for the Rangers, the deal may go through. That, of course, will depend on Trocheck agreeing to the deal. It wouldn’t be a stretch to think that could happen.
The relationship that Trocheck built with other members of the Wild, and, in particular, GM Bill Guerin, could be enough to push this deal across the line.
Yes, there might be other NHL trades out there for the Rangers. But one has to think that the Rangers will want to get this situation behind them. So, the club might push for a deal ahead of Friday’s deadline.
Rangers Must Avoid NHL Trades for the Sake of It
Another crucial issue is to avoid NHL trades for the sake of it. Making a deal just because there is an expectation to make one isn’t necessarily the best business practice. In this case, the Rangers DON’T HAVE to trade Trocheck.
The rationale has been that the Rangers are entering another rebuild and will need to flush out cap space and contracts while recouping as many assets as possible. That’s a fine needle to thread, especially with players holding no-trade clauses.
Still, Rangers fans should be encouraged. The Wild paid a hefty price for depth forward Michael McCarron. So, it’s safe to assume that the offer on the table for Trocheck is not nothing. It will be up to Trocheck and his camp to clear the deal.
A response should be forthcoming on Thursday, one way or another, as both teams look to make additional NHL trades.
NHL EDGE stats: Mammoth dark horse contender after Weegar trade
NHL.com’s fantasy staff continues to cover the latest trends and storylines in the League through the lens of NHL EDGE puck and player tracker stats. Today, we break down MacKenzie Weegar’s outlook after being traded to the Utah Mammoth.
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The Utah Mammoth acquired MacKenzie Weegar from the Calgary Flames on Wednesday, and his well-rounded advanced metrics could make them a dark horse contender in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Over the past three seasons combined (since 2023-24), Weegar was the only NHL player with at least 30 goals (31), 500 hits (547) and 500 blocks (535) prior to the trade. The 32-year-old now joins the Mammoth, who were already one of the stingiest defensive teams in the NHL; prior to the trade, Utah was allowing the fifth-fewest goals per game (2.77) and fifth-fewest shots on goal allowed per game (26.0) this season.
Utah, which was established prior to the start of last season (2024-25), has a chance to reach the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time in its second season. At the time of the Weegar trade, the Mammoth were fourth in the Central Division and occupying the first wild-card spot in the Western Conference.
Weegar joins a defense that already features an elite No. 1 option in Mikhail Sergachev, as well as a deep supporting cast of Sean Durzi, Nate Schmidt, John Marino and Ian Cole. Utah’s offense runs through its young core of forwards, led by Clayton Keller and Logan Cooley, along with three 20-goal scorers this season in Dylan Guenther (28 goals), Nick Schmaltz (23) and JJ Peterka (21). Workhorse goalie Karel Vejmelka quietly leads the NHL in wins (29) and games played (48), providing stability and consistency behind Utah’s well-rounded skater group.
With the exception of Sergachev (acquired from Tampa Bay Lightning in 2024 offseason), and Peterka (acquired from Buffalo Sabres in 2025 offseason), most of the Mammoth’s core players were a part of the Arizona Coyotes prior to Utah’s ownership group purchasing their contracts and establishing Utah’s new franchise on June 13, 2024.
Here are three advanced stats storylines surrounding Weegar that could make the Mammoth an even more formidable opponent in the postseason:
1. Shots by location
Weegar, who was acquired by the Flames from the Florida Panthers as part of the Matthew Tkachuk trade on July 22, 2022, has had plenty of accolades in various goals and shots by location categories in recent seasons. This season, Weegar ranks in the 97th percentile among defensemen in long-range shots on goal (75; tied for seventh in entire NHL). Last season, Weegar ranked sixth in long-range shots on goal (108) and scored four long-range goals (92nd percentile among defensemen); he ranked 13th among defensemen in shots on goal overall (184) last season.
During the 2023-24 season, when Weegar set an NHL career high in goals (20), he led all defensemen in midrange goals (11) and was tied for sixth in long-range goals (seven). That season, he was a shots by location juggernaut, ranking highly among defensemen in long-range shots on goal (127; 99th percentile; third in NHL), midrange shots on goal (39; 95th percentile) and high-danger shots on goal (11; 89th percentile).
2. Skating speed
Last season, when the Flames missed the postseason despite being tied with the St. Louis Blues in the standings (lost regulation wins tiebreaker), Weegar ranked in the 95th percentile in max skating speed (23.25 mph). This season, Weegar ranked in the 92nd percentile of the 18-20 mph speed bursts category (309) prior to the trade.
The Mammoth, meanwhile, ranked fourth in 20-plus mph speed bursts (1,633) and sixth in 22-plus mph speed bursts (87) prior to the Weegar trade. Cooley has the second-fastest max skating speed in the entire NHL this season (24.38) behind Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers (24.61).
Weegar’s speed continues to drive his strong puck-possession metrics and defensive prowess. He has been on the ice for 1,118 shot attempts for at 5-on-5 this season, tied for the 18th most in the entire NHL; he had a plus-49 shot attempts differential at 5-on-5 this season prior to the trade despite the Flames having a minus-32 goal differential (tied for third worst at time of trade). It’s also worth noting Weegar led NHL defensemen in even-strength points during the 2020-21 season (31) with the Panthers. Now, after being traded for the second time of his career, he joins Utah, which ranks fourth in 5-on-5 shot attempts percentage (53.2) this season.
Since joining Calgary prior to the start of the 2022-23 season, Weegar was one of five defensemen with at least 1,500 shot attempts and 150 takeaways prior to him being traded to Utah; the others were Cale Makar, Evan Bouchard, Rasmus Dahlin and Erik Karlsson. Between his defensive prowess and total skating distance (200.81 miles this season; 94th percentile among defensemen), Weegar has a chance to be a difference-maker for the Mammoth down the stretch of the season and into the postseason if they qualify.
3. Shot speed
This season, Weegar ranks in the 94th percentile in 70-80 mph shot attempts (94) and 89th percentile in 80-90 mph attempts (43). While Weegar does not have any 90-plus mph shot attempts this season, he combined for 16 shot attempts of at least 90 mph since the start of the NHL’s puck and player tracking era in 2021-22 prior to the trade, with his hardest shot coming with the Flames on Feb. 9, 2023 (94.53 mph).
Prior to the trade, Mammoth defensemen have combined for 43 shot attempts of at least 90 mph, which ranks ninth in the NHL. Sergachev has a hardest shot of 97.84 mph this season, ranking in the 93rd percentile among defensemen.
It’s also worth noting Weegar set NHL career highs in power-play goals (four) and power-play points (21) last season for the Flames. Although Sergachev is likely to remain on the Mammoth’s first power-play unit, Weegar adds to Utah’s depth and could help improve its power play, which ranked 26th out of 32 teams (16.9 percent) prior to the trade.
Utah remains in the same division as the top three teams in the NHL standings (Colorado Avalanche are first with 91 points; Dallas Stars are second with 85 points; Minnesota Wild are tied for third with 82 points), but the Weegar trade could help the NHL’s newest franchise narrow the gap down the stretch of the season. The Mammoth’s stout defensive style, along with their speed and skill across the lineup, could keep them competitive with anyone in the League over a seven-game playoff series.
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Portland Trail Blazers sign Chris Youngblood to two-way contract
Former Alabama guard Chris Youngblood has signed a two-way contract with the Portland Trail Blazers, the NBA team announced.
A two-way contract allows a player to move between an NBA team and its NBA Gatorade League affiliate without needing to pass through waivers while earning the same pay in both leagues. Each team can carry three two-way players who may appear on the active roster of the NBA team for as many as 50 games.
Youngblood started the season on a two-way contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder. But when he reached his two-way limit of 50 games, Oklahoma City released Youngblood on Feb. 6.
After his release, Youngblood joined the Thunder’s NBA G League team, the Oklahoma City Blue.
In 32 games with the Thunder, Youngblood collected 65 points, 28 rebounds, 11 assists, four steals and three blocked shots in 174 minutes of court time.
In 17 games with the Blue, Youngblood averaged 20.4 points, 6.0 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.2 steals.
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Youngblood played one season at Alabama after three seasons at Kennesaw State and one at South Florida. After winning the American Athletic Conference Player of the Year Award for the 2023-24 season, Youngblood averaged 10.3 points and 2.3 rebounds in 28 games for the Crimson Tide last season, when Alabama advanced to the Elite Eight of the NCAA tournament.
Passed over in the 2025 NBA Draft, Youngblood played for Oklahoma City in the NBA 2K26 Summer League in Las Vegas in July. He averaged 12.4 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.4 steals in five games in Las Vegas after he had averaged 8.7 points, 2.3 rebounds, 1.0 assists and 1.3 steals in three Salt Lake City Summer League games.
In four preseason games, Youngblood averaged 14.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.0 steals for the Thunder, prompting Oklahoma City to sign him to a two-way contract.
Ex-NBA Star Says Lakers Can’t Win Title With Luka Doncic
Luka Doncic is currently in the middle of his second season playing for the Los Angeles Lakers.
While the Lakers have shown vulnerabilities, he is in the middle of another incredible year.
The All-Star forward has averages of 32.4 points, 7.7 rebounds, 8.6 assists and 1.4 steals per contest while shooting 47.3% from the field and 35.9% from three-point range in 49 games.
Brandon Jennings Drops Major Luka Doncic Take
While a lot of people think that Doncic will one day lead the Lakers to a title, former NBA star Brandon Jennings is not one of them.
Jennings (via Gil’s Arena): “I just don’t know if the Lakers can win a championship with him. I just don’t see it working out. Yes, he great offensively, but you don’t be doing nothing on the other end… I just don’t see the Lakers ever winning a championship with Luka.”
Before the shocking trade that sent Doncic to Los Angeles, he had been coming off a season where he led the Mavs to the 2024 NBA Finals.
That said, a lot of his flaws were highlighted on the biggest stage.
Time will tell if the Mavs were right to trade him.
Despite finishing as the third seed in 2024-25, the Lakers lost to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs.
Luka And Lakers This Season
Regardless of anyone’s thoughts, there is no question that Doncic is one of the best seven players in the entire NBA.
He has helped lead the Lakers to a 37-24 record in 61 games, which has them as the sixth seed in the Western Conference.
On Thursday night, they will resume action when they visit the Denver Nuggets.
Brandon Jennings’ NBA Career
While Jennings did not have a long prime, he was a very productive guard for the Milwaukee Bucks.
“Most Blatant Miss”: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Move on Jalen Brunson Has Fans Calling Out NBA Refs
Another Oklahoma City Thunder play and another call in favor of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The protests against OKC and SGA’s whistle have been rampant on social media, and another moment against the New York Knicks only added more fuel to that narrative.
In the first quarter, with 2 minutes left, the Thunder made a tough basket. Jalen Brunson got himself in the right position as he went down absorbing a contact from SGA. Instead of the call being in favor of the Knicks, the whistle blew in OKC’s favor. It looked like Brunson may have picked up a charge, and the Knicks’ bench certainly thought so. And that would have been the third foul on Gilgeous-Alexander.
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JB put himself in a position to draw that offensive foul. But they didn’t get the call. There’s nothing more you can do on the part of the Knicks on that possession. That’s why Mike Brown was furious.
Because Jalen Brunson gave Shai Gilgeous-Alexander so much time to see him, and still was not able to stop. Mike Brown was incensed and instantly started screaming at the officials. Thus earned his technical foul for the game. Unlike other coaches who have been ejected against OKC, the Knicks’ head coach said his piece, received a T, and then did not engage further.
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If Brown had continued, he would have been ejected, and that would have been another catastrophe for the Knicks. Once again, the officials favoring the OKC narrative gained steam on social media.
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Fans roast Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the OKC
SGA’s elite at initiating contact without getting tagged. But getting three fouls in the first quarter would have had him on the ropes. But the fans felt refs avoided this situation by favoring the call to the Thunder. Brunson’s protest or Brown’s frustration are justified, which led to a comment, “Maybe the most blatant miss ever.”
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It has happened before, and at that time the Warriors were on the receiving end. During their matchup in early January, the referee on the opposite side suddenly called a foul on Al Horford for contact against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Crowd, players, and social media were confused. Replays showed Horford jumping to block SGA’s shot without making any contact. After multiple frustrating calls, the fans are incensed.
With heavy scrutiny about the league and gambling issues, one netizen commented, “Who in the league is protecting SGA? Do the officials have money on him for season long props?” Other coaches have received ejections and technical fouls during the game against the OKC. Timberwolves head coach was blunt on his assessment of the Thunder after he thought he was unfairly ejected.
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“It’s so frustrating to play this team because they foul a ton,” Chris Finch said. “They really do. They foul, they foul all the time. And then you can’t really touch Shai. It’s a very frustrating thing, and it takes a lot of mental toughness to play through it.” That’s why Mike Brown’s frustration was also justified. And a fan trolled Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for it. “Ofc the refs gotta protect SGA again 😂😂.”
Earlier in the season, even the Pacers’ coach, Rick Carlisle, was on the receiving end of a tech. He wanted some time to check if a call should be challenged. Still, the officials let the ball be inbounded after less than five seconds. Carlisle was upset and started arguing with the ref, resulting in him being given a technical. Since more teams suffer the same outcome against OKC, it becomes easier for fans to hate them. “Bruh this is why i can’t respect the thunder.”
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Add to it the physicality and the plays that Thunder gets away with. Especially their veteran Lu Dort. The most recent behavior was against the Nuggets. As Dort appeared to deliberately move into the path of Nikola Jokic, tripping the three-time MVP and sending him crashing to the hardwood. Another netizen wrote, “And okc fans, wonder why, nobody likes this team.”
Be it playoffs or the regular season, the constant calls that the Thunder get away with have bothered a lot of fan bases.
“Not Bowing Down”: Rich Paul Makes Case Against Michael Jordan in Modern NBA Debate
Modern era vs the classic era. NBA fans from across generations can argue which era was better. Max Kellerman chose to do so with one of the GOATS. He simulated Michael Jordan in today’s reality. “Michael Jordan in today’s game would average a 40-point triple-double,” said the former ESPN analyst. Klutch Sports’ Rich Paul gave him the hard truth.
Kellerman argued Jordan would have increased usage and most shot attempts to put up a triple-double over the entire season. Paul, who signs the NBA’s incoming talent every season, has learned one thing. This generation of basketball players is primarily focused on building their legacies.
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“You’re basing this as if people still consider the pecking order. These kids today they not bowing down to nobody. They’re not just going to sit around and let you shoot every shot… What I’m telling you is that in today’s NBA, guys are coming in and they are not caring as much as you think about who you are and what you did. Because in their mind, I’m the guy too. So, I disagree with that,” Paul said on the Game Over podcast.
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It’s not down to Michael Jordan’s illuminating talent or killer instinct. It’s the modern era’s demands. The ball moves a lot more, with more pace, and through more people. In Jordan’s era, he could take his time on the ball. Nowadays, defenses and teammates demand the rock to move more quickly.
His usage rate may have still adjusted since he is ‘His Airness’. However, the triple-double phenomenon isn’t for everybody. Three players have done it in the history of the NBA. The points wouldn’t be the problem. But finding the right pass every time needs a player who is willing to live with sporadic shot attempts for themselves. A prime example is the Joker.
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Jordan’s mindset didn’t make way for accommodating everybody. He wanted to win over any personal accolade. The triple-double was never something he chased. And eras wouldn’t change the very fabric of his basketball persona.
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Michael Jordan is helping the modern NBA
The game of basketball answers those who seek greater knowledge. Jordan was obsessed with the game. But the only player he mentored closely was Kobe Bryant. But there could be another student. That is the Minnesota Timberwolves’ Anthony Edwards, one of the most explosive rising stars in the NBA.
There are often comparisons between the two. Edwards carries that vintage hunger and is unafraid to speak his greatness into existence. That fearlessness and thirst to get better saw Jordan offer the young Timberwolves ace some tips.
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“[He helped me with] getting to my spots, pulling up, shooting over the defender… I think the best tip that he gave me is that most people lean on people in the post with their [butt], and he does it with the top part of his back,” Edwards said during a press conference.
The results are starting to speak too. Anthony Edwards is having the best scoring campaign of his career and is being more efficient than ever. Those slight adjustments have made scoring easy. That goes into proving what Michael Jordan could have done as a scorer with more spacing and pace.
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But if you ask me, Anthony Edwards is a reflection of what he could have looked like. Even Ant-Man racks up assists. However, when it’s time to get dirty, he would challenge his coach to take that last shot. It’s a different mindset in comparison to someone wanting to get the best shot.
And with Jordan’s shot-making ability, it wasn’t the wrong move. Just another way to dominate. That wouldn’t have changed even if he played in this era.
“Nobody’s Going at the Knees”: HC David Adelman Makes Bold Nikola Jokic Claim Over Other MVP Candidates
A string of physically grueling matchups has left Denver Nuggets head coach David Adelman furious. In his first season leading the team, he’s had to recalibrate his lineup over and over to grapple with injuries and protect his biggest star. Teams across the league have similarly upped the ante against the MVP contenders. Particularly, against Nikola Jokic. And it’s forced his coach to issue a fiery accusation that the three-time MVP is subjected to a level of physicality unlike any other star in the NBA.
Speaking after a recent practice, Adelman addressed growing concerns regarding Jokic’s mounting frustration with officiating. His statement suggests that the shots taken at The Joker have moved beyond standard basketball play. Adelman argued that while other MVP candidates receive traditional superstar whistles, Jokic is frequently tested by arguably dangerous defensive plays by the opponents.
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“I’m going to keep saying this, I’m not saying this because I’m being biased to my own player, nobody’s being guarded like him in the league. Nobody,” Adelman stated bluntly when asked if the lack of whistles was affecting Jokic’s focus. “Nobody’s going at the knees of other MVPs. No one’s taking shots like he’s taking. But that’s our reality.”
Jokic was on a month-long medical leave to rehab his knee after hyperextending it. He’s since had a few injury scares while maintaining an elite output. Although analysts noticed his shooting efficiency has declined. Most recently, he turned menacing when Lu Dort fouled him, suggesting that the repeated shoving is wearing his patience out and hurting his shooting. Adelman dismissed the idea that Jokic’s game tumbles when he reacts to non-calls.
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He instead said that any human being would react in situations where they’re tripped or their jersey is grabbed. “If that affects his game, I don’t see it,” Adelman added. “Reacting is part of being a human being… if it continues, we’ll react accordingly.”
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The coach emphasized that the burden now falls on the coaching staff to find space for Jokic to operate, as the team prepares for a stretch where this physical gauntlet is expected to intensify.
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The physical toll on Nikola Jokic is becoming obvious
David Adelman’s blunt claim stems from two specific high-tension games against the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Utah Jazz. In the matchup against OKC, Jaylin Williams grabbed Nikola Jokic’s jersey during a play but there was no call.
The lack of whistle left the Denver bench incensed when Lu Dort tripped Jokic next. At that point, a horde of humans were needed to keep the big man from pouncing on Dort. It eventually led to Dort’s ejection and resulted in free throws for Denver. After this game, Jokic said something similar to his coach, claiming he had a “necessary reaction” to Dort’s aggression.
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Similarly, against Utah, Jokic took a significant blow to the midsection that forced him to double over. Jazz got the whistle, but ironically, Utah announcers called out the star treatment and friendly whistle over the debatable contact.
Regardless, these incidents have become a recurring theme, with opponents utilizing a heavy-handed approach to neutralize Jokic’s finesse in the post. Adelman spoke about it throughout the presser highlighting a strategic shift for him.
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Even if Jokic is not affected, Adelman claims that the disparity in officiating has an emotional toll on the rest of the team who feel compelled to contest the no-calls. Adelman tries to divert their energy elsewhere. While Jokic and Jamal Murray draw the defenders, Adelman expects the role players like Aaron Gordon to take the shots.
But his message is not about what he is doing to protect Nikola Jokic. He’s demanding that the league do better at protecting an MVP candidate.
Jordi Fernandez calls out Nets starters following humilating Heat defeat
A ninth straight loss would warrant any coach having a strong word with his or her team.
Yet, after what was an abysmal Nets performance that made for their longest losing streak this season, as well as the worst skid in the NBA, Jordi Fernández had more than a warning for his team.
He issued a challenge.
After watching his best player in Michael Porter Jr. score just nine points, Fernández yanked him off the court with 9:33 remaining in the third.
Porter didn’t return until 9:43 in the final quarter in the eventual 124-98 loss to the Heat on Tuesday night.
“I want Mike and the first group to play as hard as they can,” Fernández said. “I want to challenge them to do it, because I’ve seen them doing it, especially on the defensive end. If that happens, I can live with whatever happens. If that is there, then you’re being selfless, you’re playing for the team, and just good things happen. I’m trying to just challenge every guy in different ways.”
The Nets have their first chance to answer the call against the Heat again Thursday night.
For Fernández, it hopefully cannot be that much worse of a performance — one that Nic Claxton called “an all-around stinker.”
Miami’s physicality on defense held the Nets to only 38.4 percent shooting from the field (33-for-86) and a brutal 18.8 percent (6-for-32) from deep, which is their third-worst mark from beyond the arc in a single game this season. They also committed 18 costly turnovers.
It was easily Porter’s worst game of the season, shooting 3-for-17 and 0-for-9 from beyond the arc.
It was once thought that his first-half tear would have earned the 27-year-old his first All-Star nod as he averaged 25.6 points per game in the first 38 games of the season.
Yet, his production has fallen off since the break, averaging just 19.8 points per game.
However, the stat sheet and Fernández’s challenge don’t just come down to the starters and veteran players.
Twelve of those turnovers came from two rookies alone.
Nolan Traore, who started the game, scored 14 points and logged six turnovers without a single assist.
Ben Saraf, who stood in for Egor Dëmin as the backup point guard, also committed six turnovers against four assists.
It was the most either of them has committed in Brooklyn.
“[Traore and Saraf] need to grow. They need to grow and watch it and learn from it,” Fernández said. “And I know they’re better. It’s not an excuse if they’re young. I’ve watched them play and they’re way better than 12 turnovers. How they organize the team, how vocal they are, all that, it’s important.”
“Regardless how they happened, you can’t have that many [turnovers] for that many points,” forward Noah Clowney added. “I don’t know how many they scored off of [them], but even [if] we missed layups or they blocked shots, they were running the other way and scoring in transition because we don’t get back.”
The Nets (15-46), who sit second in the draft lottery race and 1 ¹/₂ games behind the Kings, are in the middle of a tanking season and trying to find some victories outside of the wins column.
However, it can weigh heavily on players as it has been made clear by the front office what the season mission is.
Still, the Nets will be challenged to reset Thursday and put up a fight in South Beach.
“I don’t know how to answer that. I take s–t day by day,” Clowney said when asked about the locker room environment during the losing streak. “I couldn’t tell you who we played last game. I try to forget about everything. Play, live in the moment. As far as the locker room, we’ll figure it out. We got to.”
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“I Object”: Draymond Green Defends NBA Against Luke Kornet in ‘Magic City Monday’ Controversy
Luke Kornet, on his personal blog, strongly condemned the Magic City Night one-night collaboration, which received support. Former Atlanta Hawks star Al Horford also agreed with him. But another Warriors star, Draymond Green, is not siding with players and raised an important problem statement.
“I object to what Luke Kornet is saying. I think to point out that they have esteem issues because that’s the line of work they chose, I actually think is less protective of women because you’re condemning something – it’s actually an art,” Green said on the Draymond Green Show. “I don’t know if you’ve ever been, but if you see it in action, it’s actually a form of art that some choose to indulge in and some choose not to indulge in.
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“But to say that because a woman decides that’s the art that they want to partake in and that the customer wants to take in, I think, is reflective on society’s thoughts and how they once view things. So, I think that’s actually a negative vantage point on these women that are in this line of work that because they choose this line of work that they have esteem issues.” he concluded.
Draymond Green also clarified that even if he disagreed with what Kornet was saying, he respected that the Spurs center shared his point of view. Kornet had said on Monday, calling out the Hawks to stop the plan to honor the iconic strip club when they host the Orlando Magic on March 16. Contrary to what the strip club is primarily known for, “Magic City Monday” has been branded as a celebration of Atlanta and its culture.
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Kornet felt that this sends a bad message to women. Even Al Horford, who played for the Hawks from 2007 to 2016, opined the same. The NBA champion would retweet the post with three word caption, “Well said Luke.” This further sparked debate over whether it is an appropriate gesture from the league and the Hawks to promote Magic City.
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But the apparent controversy has not stopped the franchise. In fact, as per TMZ, they haven’t had a single conversation about scrapping the plans.
Luke Kornet’s message goes unheard
The Spurs star put the league and commissioner Adam Silver, by extension, on notice with his message. Kornet urged the NBA to try its best to “protect and esteem women.” ‘We should promote an atmosphere that is protective and respectful of the daughters, wives, sisters, mothers, and partners that we know and love,” Kornet wrote.
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But the Hawks’ principal owner, filmmaker and actor Jami Gertz, disagreed about the cancellation of the event. “The iconic Atlanta institution has made such an incredible impact on our city and its unique culture,” Gertz said in an official statement. In fact, the Hawks have already sold hoodies and T-shirts for the promotional night against the Orlando Magic. Reportedly, the tickets were selling out at a faster rate, despite the controversy.
Gertz’s statement also arises because she produced the docuseries “Magic City: An American Fantasy,” alongside GRAMMY Award-winning music mogul and Atlanta native Jermaine Dupri. This series focused on and shared the cultural impact and influence of the landmark and its pivotal role in hip-hop culture. With the promotion of Magic City Monday, the Hawks are trying to send the same message.
Knicks HC Mike Brown Accuses Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of Manipulating NBA Refs After Loss to Thunder
The New York Knicks got unlucky late tonight. In a 103-100 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the hosts gave up a lead in a tightly contested game. However, nearly all the attention was on Thunder superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored in his usual fashion: midrange domination and free throws. After the game, however, Knicks head coach Mike Brown fired subtle shots at him.
“SGA, he’s a tough cover,” Brown told reporters during his postgame conference. “He does a great job of convincing the referees, probably better than anybody in the league, that he’s getting hit.”
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It was evident tonight. Despite Shai logging a more down-to-earth 26 points compared to his season averages tonight, he ended with a game-high seven free throw attempts, something that has been a big part of his game and drawn ire from opponents.
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Tonight, Brown pointed to one particular sequence. With about two minutes on the clock, Jalen Brunson went to take a charge on Gilgeous-Alexander, absorbing contact from the guard. Unfortunately for the Knicks, it was Brunson who was assessed a foul, not SGA.
Brown was furious, immediately calling out the refs on the court, immediately earning a technical foul before stopping from engaging further to prevent an ejection. He explained his thought process after the game.
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“Pointedly leaving the officials alone was something I was trying to do,” Brown told reporters. “Tonight, you guys saw the play. SGA had two fouls. Jalen was there…I don’t understand why that was a no-call. That should’ve been his third, the bucket shouldn’t have counted, and we should’ve gone the other way with the basketball.”
Brown isn’t the only one who has words for the Thunder guard either.
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Mike Brown Becomes the Latest Critic of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Playing Style
Mike Brown isn’t the first person to call out the reigning MVP’s ability to draw foul calls, especially given the guard’s undeniable talent in drawing contact. Gilgeous-Alexander is leading the league in free throws attempted per game for the third season in a row this season, and has an astoundingly high free throw rate of .465, one of the highest marks in the league for a high-volume shooter.
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This playstyle has often led to friction between him and his opponents. SGA has often been accused of being a ‘foul-baiter,’ but has dismissed the narrative, previously telling reporters after a loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves that he “can’t control how the refs blow the whistle ever.”
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After a later game against the Thunder in February, Minnesota head coach Chris Finch said that his players “couldn’t touch Shai” despite the Thunder getting away with fouling “all the time.
“It’s so frustrating to play this team because they foul a ton,” Finch told reporters back then. “It’s a very frustrating thing, and it takes a lot of mental toughness to play through it.”
ESPN commentator Doris Burke also called him out during a nationally televised game between the Wolves and the Denver Nuggets, pointing out that Anthony Edwards got called for an offensive foul which would’ve fallen in Gilgeous-Alexander’s favor had he been in that position instead.
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It’s clear that SGA has his detractors, but until the Thunder are soundly defeated in the playoffs, it doesn’t seem like things are changing.
Thunder aren’t dominating NBA standings … but still are team to beat
NEW YORK — Chet Holmgren knew that, for the Oklahoma City Thunder, it could’ve gone the other way.
Minutes before he tried to fit his 7-foot-1 frame into a padded folding chair here at Madison Square Garden, his team escaped with a 103-100 win Wednesday, March 4 over the Knicks that didn’t come without drama.
New York whittled an eight-point deficit inside the final three minutes, eventually putting up a pair of clean looks inside the final six seconds with the chance to tie the game. The first shot was long — the second one, short.
And so, the Thunder outlasted New York in another reminder that, for Oklahoma City, things won’t come easy.
“We made enough plays down the stretch on both ends to close it out,” Holmgren told reporters. “They made some plays, too — they just didn’t quite convert. If they do, it’s a different-looking game.”
This Thunder team isn’t nearly as dominant as the one that won the championship last season. For one, Oklahoma City already has more losses (15) than it did last year (14), with 18 games still remaining. For another, points are more difficult to come by; this season’s Thunder ranks seventh in offensive rating, scoring 116.9 points per 100 possessions, after it ranked third in the league (119.2) last year.
Ultimately, it may not matter. The Thunder (49-15) remain the best team in the NBA and are a legitimate threat to become the first team to repeat as NBA champions since the Warriors did so in 2018. This is only magnified when you consider that they’ve done all this despite being saddled with injury issues since training camp.
Jalen Williams, an All-Star last season, has played just 26 games and is currently out with a strained right hamstring. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander just returned from a nine-game absence. Center Isaiah Hartenstein has played just 35 games, and he left the Knicks game Wednesday midway through the third quarter with left calf tightness. Alex Caruso (left hip contusion) was also knocked out.
But as they have all season long, role players filled in.
“We’re a pretty deep team,” Gilgeous-Alexander said after the game. “With the injuries we’ve gone through this year, for us to still be in the mix for the top seed in the league and in the West is pretty impressive.”
Against the Knicks, third-year guard Cason Wallace started his 51st game of the season. He was the primary defender on Knicks All-Star Jalen Brunson and swiped 4 steals on the night. Veteran forward Kenrich Williams played just 6:13 in the game — all in the fourth quarter — and hit a big 3 early in the period that quieted a New York run.
“It just speaks to the guys that have had to step up, like Isaiah Joe, Cason — the past few weeks have transformed their game and have shown what they can be as basketball players in big roles,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “Guys like myself come back and kind of diminish their role and it’s a little bit unfair. Hats off to those guys for doing whatever the team asks from them, literally. If the team asks them to do more, they do more. If the team asks them to do less, they do less.
“To win a championship, no matter how good your best players are, you need to have those guys on your team. We know that, and we’re thankful for them, for sure.”
Prior to Wednesday night’s game, Williams went through an extended shootaround session in which he moved with ease and didn’t appear hampered whatsoever. He was loose, he joked with Gilgeous-Alexander, and he laced shot after shot.
If he can stay on the floor, he’ll provide a massive boost for the Thunder on both sides, especially late in games. Williams earned All-Defensive second-team honors last season and his shot creation in the NBA Finals helped the Thunder close the Pacers.
Yet, the final 18 games of the regular season will test this team more than any stretch since winning the title. According to Tankathon.com, the Thunder have the NBA’s third-toughest remaining schedule (.535), and Oklahoma City only has a 3½-game lead on the Spurs for the top seed in the West.
And if the Thunder are to retain the No. 1 seed, it will be because of games like these — games against great teams, on the road in iconic venues — games in which the Thunder are shorthanded, for them to pave the foundation to get there.
“I don’t have pixie dust,” Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said. “It’s those guys. They’re the ones executing. They’ve got the competitive maturity at this point to understand how to win. That doesn’t mean we’ll win every game, but they understand the path you have to walk through.
“Their ability to click in the way they did tonight is a necessary skill. And it’s great for us to get experiences like this — and have success in those experiences. That’s how you build your muscle through the course of the regular season to make yourself as mentally tough as you can be.”
Major League Soccer’s New England Revolution postpone their home opener because field won’t be ready
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Major League Soccer’s New England Revolution postponed their March 7 home opener against Houston because the field won’t be ready at Gillette Stadium.
New England now intends to plays its first home game on March 15 against Cincinnati.
“Due to this week’s historic winter weather in the northeast, the harvesting and delivery of the stadium’s new natural grass field has been delayed,” the team said in a statement Friday. “With field-related stadium infrastructure preparations completed on schedule, the Gillette Stadium field crew is prepared to install the grass when it arrives ahead of the Revolution’s new MLS home opener.”
New England opened with a 4-1 loss at Nashville last weekend and is at the New York Red Bulls on Saturday.
___
Major League Soccer’s New England Revolution postpone their home opener because field won’t be ready
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Major League Soccer’s New England Revolution postponed their March 7 home opener against Houston because the field won’t be ready at Gillette Stadium.
New England now intends to plays its first home game on March 15 against Cincinnati.
“Due to this week’s historic winter weather in the northeast, the harvesting and delivery of the stadium’s new natural grass field has been delayed,” the team said in a statement Friday. “With field-related stadium infrastructure preparations completed on schedule, the Gillette Stadium field crew is prepared to install the grass when it arrives ahead of the Revolution’s new MLS home opener.”
New England opened with a 4-1 loss at Nashville last weekend and is at the New York Red Bulls on Saturday.
___
AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer
Copyright © 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.
New MLS Apple TV Data Is Promising, But Don’t Jump To Conclusions
On Thursday, Major League Soccer announced that 9.7 million viewers had watched opening weekend matches across all platforms, an increase of 59% from the year before.
At face value, those are promising numbers. Taken in more nuanced context, like most of the data from this new streaming era, they still don’t tell us a whole lot.
Apple TV and Oranges
Last weekend’s action was the first since MLS partnered with Apple TV that was available to all Apple TV+ subscribers, rather than only to those who bought a separate MLS Season Pass service.
It also featured arguably the most marketable single regular season match of the entire season in terms of star power, when Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami took on Son Heung-min’s LAFC at the LA Coliseum on Saturday night.
Further, the figure still isn’t comparable to the standard Nielsen TV data we’re used to. That’s because it represents the entire global lineal TV and streaming audience, whereas Nielsen numbers represent only domestic lineal TV. And for TV advertisers, not all viewers are equal, given the different spending power that exists in different national economies.
MORE FOR YOU
Negotiating Leverage?
Lastly, this new viewership disclosure comes against the backdrop of a recently amended and shortened agreement between MLS and Apple TV. Their pact now expires following the 2028-29 season. It was originally set to run through the end of the year 2032.
We don’t know whether the reported 59% jump is primarily the result of removing the MLS Season Pass paywall, or if it also represents an organic jump in interest in the league. We do, however, know that the decision to remove that paywall and shorten the agreement happened in concert. And with the league now set to negotiate a new rights package to begin with the 2029-2030 season, it seems likely MLS pushed for the removal of the Season Pass paywall in order to drive up raw viewership data and its negotiating leverage.
The data released Thursday comes after three years of relatively sparse viewership information. Some of that is understandable, given the industry-wide struggle to present meaningful streaming data without the emergency of a standard measurement similar to Nielsen’s TV ratings. Nonetheless, it means the data that does emerge is more subject to the whims of the rightsholder. In other words, we’re more likely to get the flattering numbers, and less likely to get the troubling ones.
Messi, Son, and Mean vs Median
Lastly, while we know there were 9.7 million viewers, representing a 59% increase from a year ago, we don’t know the distribution of that audience across matches – i.e. whether fans are tuning in to MLS, or just to Messi and Son.
Another data point suggests it’s at least partly the latter.
The 387,271 fans that attended opening weekend games was the largest figure ever for a single match weekend. But there are two caveats:
This is only the second opening weekend in MLS history to feature 15 games, since the league only expanded to 30 teams to start 2025.
Nearly 20% of that attendance figure came from the Messi-Son showdown seen by a historic crowd of 75,673 at the LA Memorial Coliseum.
The median attendance of the weekend came in Vancouver, where 23,546 fans watched the Whitecaps defeat Real Salt Lake 1-0. That’s a very solid number, but hardly out of line with MLS norms, and a bit beneath the mean weekend attendance of 25,818.
If the Messi vs. Son showdown pulled up the overall attendance average by roughly 10%, it’s safe to assume it had a similar, and perhaps even larger, impact on viewership numbers.
Inter Miami invited to White House to mark MLS Cup win – source
Inter Miami has received an invitation to attend the White House to celebrate the team’s 2025 Major League Soccer Cup triumph, a club source confirmed to ESPN.
Though Inter Miami is expected to attend the reception next week during their visit to Washington, D.C. when traveling to face D.C. United, details have not been finalized.
Inter Miami would follow the longstanding tradition in American sport of commemorating a league title with a White House reception.
D.C. United stood as the first MLS team to attend the White House in 1998 following their Cup triumph, while the LA Galaxy visited on multiple occasions by winning in 2011, 2012 and 2014.
Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham visited the White House with the Galaxy in 2012 to celebrate the league trophy.
– Messi knocked to ground as fans invade field in PR
– Lionel Messi ‘deeply regrets’ not learning English
– Sources: Miami target Blackmon inks Caps deal
The Herons lifted the 2025 MLS Cup on December 6, defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale to mark the team’s first ever league trophy.
Though the team previously lifted the Supporters’ Shield and Leagues Cup trophy, the MLS Cup remained an unachieved target until finally clinching the title last season.
German star Marco Reus extends contract with LA Galaxy through 2027
CARSON, Calif. (AP) — German midfielder Marco Reus has extended his contract with the LA Galaxy through December 2027.
The Galaxy announced the extension Saturday for the 36-year-old Reus, who joined the Major League Soccer club in August 2024 after 12 successful years with Borussia Dortmund.
Reus immediately played an important role in the Galaxy’s surge to their league-record sixth MLS Cup championship in late 2024, and he has been largely outstanding when healthy during his stateside tenure. He has 22 goal contributions in 42 matches, including five goals and nine assists last season.
“Marco brings an incredible level of quality, experience and leadership to our group,” Galaxy general manager Will Kuntz said in a statement. “His professionalism and standards elevate everyone around him, both on the pitch and in the locker room. We’re excited that Marco will continue to be a part of the Galaxy family.”
Before he joined the Galaxy, Reus scored 170 goals from 2012 to 2024 for his hometown club and was twice selected as the German Footballer of the Year. Dortmund reached two Champions League finals while Reus became only the third player in Bundesliga history to have 100 goals and 100 assists.
Reus also was a regular for the German national team for more than a decade, but untimely injuries prevented him from playing in three of the four World Cup tournaments during that stretch.
Reus has been the Galaxy’s captain for two matches early this year, and he assisted on their first goal of the season last week.
___
5 best MLS candidates besides Lionel Messi to win 2026 FIFA World Cup’s Golden Boot
Son Heung-Min got an early start on soccer’s North America showcase, arriving from Tottenham in a league-record deal worth a reported $26.5 million last year. The South Korean captain immediately redefined the league’s star-chasing ceiling. He posted 12 goals and three assists in 13 games, including the 2025 playoffs. Fans will never forget that stunning free-kick equalizer against Vancouver. LAFC ultimately fell short of the MLS Cup, but Son has plenty left in the tank.
Two assists in two games to start 2026 provide that evidence. Sure, the 33-year-old’s legs are not quite as spry these days, but the LAFC star is a national hero. Still one of the most dangerous wingers in the world, Son is surely going to lead the Opening Match lines versus whoever survives the UEFA World Cup Knockout gauntlet.
Getting up for Mexico in Guadalajara for the second game will test Son’s cardio as much as the mental strength. His heart is undeniable. Son (140 caps, 54 goals) remains a dynamic force capable of dismantling defenses with pace, finishing, and vision. If South Korea advances deep into the tournament, experience in high-pressure environments would likely propel him to Golden Boot contention. Son has that in spades and keeps popping up in the right places for LAFC.
James Rodriguez seeks redemption
Rodriguez is Colombia’s second all-time leading scorer with 31 goals and 41 assists in 122 caps. He won the 2014 Golden Boot in Brazil, leading to a huge transfer to Real Madrid. The former Los Cafeteros captain is on the outside looking in as well, hence the winter window MLS move. Stops at Bayern Munich, Everton, Olympiacos, São Paulo, and Club León had worn the tread down on the tires.
Néstor Lorenzo needs a long look at Rodriguez’s form with Minnesota United. Sure, his lethal set pieces and vision remain well above average. Those traits will come in handy when trying to break down a bunkered defense or chasing a goal. His 34-year-old legs will not last long in Estadio Azteca against Uzbekistan, though, so coming on as a 60-minute super sub in every game is the best bet to bag a goal a game.
Miguel Almirón’s new magic
Almirón returned to Atlanta United in January 2025, completing a reunion with the club that first made him a star. For the last act of their international careers, Tata Martino is back to try to recapture that magic on the international stage. Yup, that’s right. The same coach who steered Atlanta to the 2018 MLS Cup with Almirón (74 caps, 9 goals, 5 assists) and Joseph Martinez is back with a new blueprint built for knockout competition.
Atlanta United’s dynamic winger led the Five Stripes with 12 goal contributions (six goals, six assists) in 31 starts in 2025. The 32-year old’s effect on a game is still profound, providing the spark and leadership Martino needs. Almirón played 15 CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying matches as Paraguay ended a 16-year drought to qualify for the tournament.
Premier pace and ability to cut inside from the right flank make him a nightmare matchup for any defender. The USMNT will find out personally on June 12.
Joseph Paintsil pushing the pace
The Ghanaian winger has been one of the Los Angeles Galaxy’s most reliable performers (24 goals, 16 assists in 58 games) since arriving. Arguably the fastest player on the planet and a growing force for the Black Stars, Joseph Paintsil is one of the league’s most exciting players as well. His ability to unlock defenses off the dribble makes him a consistent threat, and if Ghana can get him into space, he has the finishing quality to make a lasting impression. The problem has been working through the occasional knock.
Paintsil has been involved inconsistently with Ghana’s national team (17 caps, 8 starts) but is starting to come on strong in MLS action. Earning a spot on the 26-man roster seems a foregone conclusion if finally fully healthy. The 28-year-old represents the elder part of a new generation hoping to restore Ghana’s status as a tournament contender.
Petar Musa keeps Croatia cool
The FC Dallas forward is on the bubble, but Petar Musa’s MLS form may force manager Zlatko Dalić’s hand. Croatia needs someone cool in front of goal to clear the group stage. Musa has been prolific in MLS, bagging 37 goals and 10 assists in 58 appearances so far. Clinical finishing and aerial ability are not in doubt, and every country needs those qualities during a World Cup run.
With two goals in two games to start the 2026 MLS season, the 27-year-old could be the focal point of an attack that needs to move on from Luka Modric. Croatia traditionally spreads scoring responsibility across multiple players, but Musa’s penalty-box instincts and physical presence give him a chance to emerge as the team’s starting striker.
Few players enter the tournament with Musa’s combination of form and opportunity. Being in a group with England, Ghana, and Panama is perfect tactically. Musa might have to steal one singlehandedly against the Three Lions, but the other two games should be wide open with plenty of opportunities. If Croatia navigates a favorable knockout path and Musa capitalizes on defensive lapses from opponents, he could rack up 5-7 goals, echoing James Rodríguez’s 2014 breakout or Thomas Müller’s 2010 haul.
You Can Now Subscribe to Apple TV Through the Roku Channel
Roku has teamed up with Apple to offer the Apple TV subscription service on the Roku Channel, giving Roku users easy access to Apple’s streaming service. The Roku Channel is available across all Roku devices, and it provides access to free content as well as premium subscriptions.
With the partnership, Apple could see subscriber growth, while Roku will be able to offer subscribers access to popular content like Formula 1, Major League Soccer, and Major League Baseball. Apple TV via the Roku Channel is still priced at $12.99 per month or $99 per year, with a 7-day free trial.
Roku has partnered with a long list of premium services, including Starz, Paramount+, HBO Max, AMC+, Britbox, Crunchyroll, Shudder, and more, with a full list available on the Roku website. With Roku Channel, premium services are managed through a user’s Roku account. There has been an Apple TV app available on Roku since 2019, but the Roku Channel recommends Apple TV content alongside other content, and makes it easier for customers to subscribe.
Apple TV on the Roku Channel can be watched on a long list of devices, including smart TVs, streaming players from Amazon, Google, and Roku, the web, and on iOS and Android devices.
Apple has a similar feature for third-party services, Apple Channels. With Apple Channels, users can subscribe to premium content through the Apple TV app and manage that content through their Apple Accounts.
MLS, Whitecaps to pay $347K settlement for Lionel Messi absence
March 3 – The Vancouver Whitecaps and Major League Soccer will pay $347,000 to settle a class-action lawsuit filed in Canada after Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi did not appear in a 2024 game as advertised.
The British Columbia Supreme Court approved the settlement, The Athletic reported on Tuesday.
The Whitecaps heavily promoted the appearance of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner ahead of a May 25, 2024 game, anticipating a record-breaking crowd at Vancouver’s BC Place stadium. Ticket prices skyrocketed.
Unfortunately, Messi, who was playing his first full season in MLS that year, ended up not traveling to the game — along with fellow standouts Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets — because then-Miami coach Tata Martino said he wanted to
MLS, Whitecaps to pay $347K settlement for Lionel Messi absence
The Vancouver Whitecaps and Major League Soccer will pay $347,000 to settle a class-action lawsuit filed in Canada after Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi did not appear in a 2024 game as advertised.
The British Columbia Supreme Court approved the settlement, The Athletic reported on Tuesday.
The Whitecaps heavily promoted the appearance of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner ahead of a May 25, 2024 game, anticipating a record-breaking crowd at Vancouver’s BC Place stadium. Ticket prices skyrocketed.
Unfortunately, Messi, who was playing his first full season in MLS that year, ended up not traveling to the game — along with fellow standouts Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets — because then-Miami coach Tata Martino said he wanted to
Fire break ground on new stadium, take lead on city peers and move closer to igniting Chicago soccer
The Fire have spent much of their existence looking for a new home. Now they’re ahead of other Chicago teams in the stadium game.
On Tuesday, the Fire broke ground on their new arena in The 78. The $750 million privately funded facility is expected to open in late summer 2028.
“This isn’t just a stadium, it’s a statement of ambition,” Fire owner and chairman Joe Mansueto said during his speech. “It’s about pride. It’s about believing in the city of Chicago.”
Stadium intrigue has been one of the biggest stories around Chicago sports over the past few years.
Dissatisfied with Rate Field, the White Sox released renderings for a new stadium at The 78. Owner Jerry Reinsdorf even met with Nashville mayor Freddie O’Connell during the 2023 Winter Meetings.
The Bears, currently the Fire’s roommate at Soldier Field, are in the midst of a quixotic quest for a new home that could end up in Arlington Heights or Northwest Indiana. Mayor Brandon Johnson kept Chicago itself in the picture, reiterating Tuesday that the Bears belong within city limits.
Meanwhile, the Fire are two years away from their own field on a desired plot of land. And nothing in the Fire’s history would indicate they’d be in this spot compared to some of their Chicago peers.
In 2006, the Fire thought they had found their long-term home when they moved to suburban Bridgeview. The soccer-specific venue offered intimate sightlines and gave the Fire the first choice of dates for matches.
Though the facility remained a capable host to soccer, by the end of the 2010s it was clear the Fire were looking to exit. The arena had fallen behind newer grounds, and the team’s on-field decline paired with Bridgeview’s location meant attendance plummeted.
In late 2019, Mansueto announced he was moving the Fire back to Soldier Field. Observers predicted it was a temporary solution and not a permanent answer because of inevitable issues with field conditions, choice of dates and creating a soccer atmosphere.
Those problems should be a thing of the past now for the Fire, and the new building could potentially spark a market that’s been underserved by its team. Despite the city’s strong soccer history, whether it’s the old North American Soccer League’s Sting or a flourishing youth and amateur scene, the Fire haven’t been one of MLS’ flagship clubs for over 15 years.
MLS commissioner Don Garber said, around six weeks ago, he drove around the city with Mansueto and visited the team’s new training center. The visit showed Garber again that Chicago is a soccer town.
“The Chicago Fire have had a small but rabid fan base, particularly among their supporters, and they’ve been missing something,” Garber said. “[Mansueto] mentioned it when he talked about his vision. He believes in the city, he believes in this team, believes in the sport, and believes that if he can deliver a best-in-class, world-class soccer stadium, it’ll connect all the dots and give this city what it is that I think they want.
“They want to be a leading city. They’re tired of hearing about other cities that have proven that they can really move the needle in the United States. This city and its fans want to move the needle and I am highly confident that they’ll be able to do that.”
The Fire are in the lead in another category: building a new stadium in the city.
Major League Soccer’s New England Revolution postpone their home opener because field won’t be ready
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Major League Soccer’s New England Revolution postponed their March 7 home opener against Houston because the field won’t be ready at Gillette Stadium.
New England now intends to plays its first home game on March 15 against Cincinnati.
“Due to this week’s historic winter weather in the northeast, the harvesting and delivery of the stadium’s new natural grass field has been delayed,” the team said in a statement Friday. “With field-related stadium infrastructure preparations completed on schedule, the Gillette Stadium field crew is prepared to install the grass when it arrives ahead of the Revolution’s new MLS home opener.”
New England opened with a 4-1 loss at Nashville last weekend and is at the New York Red Bulls on Saturday.
___
Major League Soccer’s New England Revolution postpone their home opener because field won’t be ready
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Major League Soccer’s New England Revolution postponed their March 7 home opener against Houston because the field won’t be ready at Gillette Stadium.
New England now intends to plays its first home game on March 15 against Cincinnati.
“Due to this week’s historic winter weather in the northeast, the harvesting and delivery of the stadium’s new natural grass field has been delayed,” the team said in a statement Friday. “With field-related stadium infrastructure preparations completed on schedule, the Gillette Stadium field crew is prepared to install the grass when it arrives ahead of the Revolution’s new MLS home opener.”
New England opened with a 4-1 loss at Nashville last weekend and is at the New York Red Bulls on Saturday.
___
AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer
Copyright © 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.
New MLS Apple TV Data Is Promising, But Don’t Jump To Conclusions
On Thursday, Major League Soccer announced that 9.7 million viewers had watched opening weekend matches across all platforms, an increase of 59% from the year before.
At face value, those are promising numbers. Taken in more nuanced context, like most of the data from this new streaming era, they still don’t tell us a whole lot.
Apple TV and Oranges
Last weekend’s action was the first since MLS partnered with Apple TV that was available to all Apple TV+ subscribers, rather than only to those who bought a separate MLS Season Pass service.
It also featured arguably the most marketable single regular season match of the entire season in terms of star power, when Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami took on Son Heung-min’s LAFC at the LA Coliseum on Saturday night.
Further, the figure still isn’t comparable to the standard Nielsen TV data we’re used to. That’s because it represents the entire global lineal TV and streaming audience, whereas Nielsen numbers represent only domestic lineal TV. And for TV advertisers, not all viewers are equal, given the different spending power that exists in different national economies.
MORE FOR YOU
Negotiating Leverage?
Lastly, this new viewership disclosure comes against the backdrop of a recently amended and shortened agreement between MLS and Apple TV. Their pact now expires following the 2028-29 season. It was originally set to run through the end of the year 2032.
We don’t know whether the reported 59% jump is primarily the result of removing the MLS Season Pass paywall, or if it also represents an organic jump in interest in the league. We do, however, know that the decision to remove that paywall and shorten the agreement happened in concert. And with the league now set to negotiate a new rights package to begin with the 2029-2030 season, it seems likely MLS pushed for the removal of the Season Pass paywall in order to drive up raw viewership data and its negotiating leverage.
The data released Thursday comes after three years of relatively sparse viewership information. Some of that is understandable, given the industry-wide struggle to present meaningful streaming data without the emergency of a standard measurement similar to Nielsen’s TV ratings. Nonetheless, it means the data that does emerge is more subject to the whims of the rightsholder. In other words, we’re more likely to get the flattering numbers, and less likely to get the troubling ones.
Messi, Son, and Mean vs Median
Lastly, while we know there were 9.7 million viewers, representing a 59% increase from a year ago, we don’t know the distribution of that audience across matches – i.e. whether fans are tuning in to MLS, or just to Messi and Son.
Another data point suggests it’s at least partly the latter.
The 387,271 fans that attended opening weekend games was the largest figure ever for a single match weekend. But there are two caveats:
This is only the second opening weekend in MLS history to feature 15 games, since the league only expanded to 30 teams to start 2025.
Nearly 20% of that attendance figure came from the Messi-Son showdown seen by a historic crowd of 75,673 at the LA Memorial Coliseum.
The median attendance of the weekend came in Vancouver, where 23,546 fans watched the Whitecaps defeat Real Salt Lake 1-0. That’s a very solid number, but hardly out of line with MLS norms, and a bit beneath the mean weekend attendance of 25,818.
If the Messi vs. Son showdown pulled up the overall attendance average by roughly 10%, it’s safe to assume it had a similar, and perhaps even larger, impact on viewership numbers.
Inter Miami invited to White House to mark MLS Cup win – source
Inter Miami has received an invitation to attend the White House to celebrate the team’s 2025 Major League Soccer Cup triumph, a club source confirmed to ESPN.
Though Inter Miami is expected to attend the reception next week during their visit to Washington, D.C. when traveling to face D.C. United, details have not been finalized.
Inter Miami would follow the longstanding tradition in American sport of commemorating a league title with a White House reception.
D.C. United stood as the first MLS team to attend the White House in 1998 following their Cup triumph, while the LA Galaxy visited on multiple occasions by winning in 2011, 2012 and 2014.
Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham visited the White House with the Galaxy in 2012 to celebrate the league trophy.
– Messi knocked to ground as fans invade field in PR
– Lionel Messi ‘deeply regrets’ not learning English
– Sources: Miami target Blackmon inks Caps deal
The Herons lifted the 2025 MLS Cup on December 6, defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale to mark the team’s first ever league trophy.
Though the team previously lifted the Supporters’ Shield and Leagues Cup trophy, the MLS Cup remained an unachieved target until finally clinching the title last season.
German star Marco Reus extends contract with LA Galaxy through 2027
CARSON, Calif. (AP) — German midfielder Marco Reus has extended his contract with the LA Galaxy through December 2027.
The Galaxy announced the extension Saturday for the 36-year-old Reus, who joined the Major League Soccer club in August 2024 after 12 successful years with Borussia Dortmund.
Reus immediately played an important role in the Galaxy’s surge to their league-record sixth MLS Cup championship in late 2024, and he has been largely outstanding when healthy during his stateside tenure. He has 22 goal contributions in 42 matches, including five goals and nine assists last season.
“Marco brings an incredible level of quality, experience and leadership to our group,” Galaxy general manager Will Kuntz said in a statement. “His professionalism and standards elevate everyone around him, both on the pitch and in the locker room. We’re excited that Marco will continue to be a part of the Galaxy family.”
Before he joined the Galaxy, Reus scored 170 goals from 2012 to 2024 for his hometown club and was twice selected as the German Footballer of the Year. Dortmund reached two Champions League finals while Reus became only the third player in Bundesliga history to have 100 goals and 100 assists.
Reus also was a regular for the German national team for more than a decade, but untimely injuries prevented him from playing in three of the four World Cup tournaments during that stretch.
Reus has been the Galaxy’s captain for two matches early this year, and he assisted on their first goal of the season last week.
___
5 best MLS candidates besides Lionel Messi to win 2026 FIFA World Cup’s Golden Boot
Son Heung-Min got an early start on soccer’s North America showcase, arriving from Tottenham in a league-record deal worth a reported $26.5 million last year. The South Korean captain immediately redefined the league’s star-chasing ceiling. He posted 12 goals and three assists in 13 games, including the 2025 playoffs. Fans will never forget that stunning free-kick equalizer against Vancouver. LAFC ultimately fell short of the MLS Cup, but Son has plenty left in the tank.
Two assists in two games to start 2026 provide that evidence. Sure, the 33-year-old’s legs are not quite as spry these days, but the LAFC star is a national hero. Still one of the most dangerous wingers in the world, Son is surely going to lead the Opening Match lines versus whoever survives the UEFA World Cup Knockout gauntlet.
Getting up for Mexico in Guadalajara for the second game will test Son’s cardio as much as the mental strength. His heart is undeniable. Son (140 caps, 54 goals) remains a dynamic force capable of dismantling defenses with pace, finishing, and vision. If South Korea advances deep into the tournament, experience in high-pressure environments would likely propel him to Golden Boot contention. Son has that in spades and keeps popping up in the right places for LAFC.
James Rodriguez seeks redemption
Rodriguez is Colombia’s second all-time leading scorer with 31 goals and 41 assists in 122 caps. He won the 2014 Golden Boot in Brazil, leading to a huge transfer to Real Madrid. The former Los Cafeteros captain is on the outside looking in as well, hence the winter window MLS move. Stops at Bayern Munich, Everton, Olympiacos, São Paulo, and Club León had worn the tread down on the tires.
Néstor Lorenzo needs a long look at Rodriguez’s form with Minnesota United. Sure, his lethal set pieces and vision remain well above average. Those traits will come in handy when trying to break down a bunkered defense or chasing a goal. His 34-year-old legs will not last long in Estadio Azteca against Uzbekistan, though, so coming on as a 60-minute super sub in every game is the best bet to bag a goal a game.
Miguel Almirón’s new magic
Almirón returned to Atlanta United in January 2025, completing a reunion with the club that first made him a star. For the last act of their international careers, Tata Martino is back to try to recapture that magic on the international stage. Yup, that’s right. The same coach who steered Atlanta to the 2018 MLS Cup with Almirón (74 caps, 9 goals, 5 assists) and Joseph Martinez is back with a new blueprint built for knockout competition.
Atlanta United’s dynamic winger led the Five Stripes with 12 goal contributions (six goals, six assists) in 31 starts in 2025. The 32-year old’s effect on a game is still profound, providing the spark and leadership Martino needs. Almirón played 15 CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying matches as Paraguay ended a 16-year drought to qualify for the tournament.
Premier pace and ability to cut inside from the right flank make him a nightmare matchup for any defender. The USMNT will find out personally on June 12.
Joseph Paintsil pushing the pace
The Ghanaian winger has been one of the Los Angeles Galaxy’s most reliable performers (24 goals, 16 assists in 58 games) since arriving. Arguably the fastest player on the planet and a growing force for the Black Stars, Joseph Paintsil is one of the league’s most exciting players as well. His ability to unlock defenses off the dribble makes him a consistent threat, and if Ghana can get him into space, he has the finishing quality to make a lasting impression. The problem has been working through the occasional knock.
Paintsil has been involved inconsistently with Ghana’s national team (17 caps, 8 starts) but is starting to come on strong in MLS action. Earning a spot on the 26-man roster seems a foregone conclusion if finally fully healthy. The 28-year-old represents the elder part of a new generation hoping to restore Ghana’s status as a tournament contender.
Petar Musa keeps Croatia cool
The FC Dallas forward is on the bubble, but Petar Musa’s MLS form may force manager Zlatko Dalić’s hand. Croatia needs someone cool in front of goal to clear the group stage. Musa has been prolific in MLS, bagging 37 goals and 10 assists in 58 appearances so far. Clinical finishing and aerial ability are not in doubt, and every country needs those qualities during a World Cup run.
With two goals in two games to start the 2026 MLS season, the 27-year-old could be the focal point of an attack that needs to move on from Luka Modric. Croatia traditionally spreads scoring responsibility across multiple players, but Musa’s penalty-box instincts and physical presence give him a chance to emerge as the team’s starting striker.
Few players enter the tournament with Musa’s combination of form and opportunity. Being in a group with England, Ghana, and Panama is perfect tactically. Musa might have to steal one singlehandedly against the Three Lions, but the other two games should be wide open with plenty of opportunities. If Croatia navigates a favorable knockout path and Musa capitalizes on defensive lapses from opponents, he could rack up 5-7 goals, echoing James Rodríguez’s 2014 breakout or Thomas Müller’s 2010 haul.
You Can Now Subscribe to Apple TV Through the Roku Channel
Roku has teamed up with Apple to offer the Apple TV subscription service on the Roku Channel, giving Roku users easy access to Apple’s streaming service. The Roku Channel is available across all Roku devices, and it provides access to free content as well as premium subscriptions.
With the partnership, Apple could see subscriber growth, while Roku will be able to offer subscribers access to popular content like Formula 1, Major League Soccer, and Major League Baseball. Apple TV via the Roku Channel is still priced at $12.99 per month or $99 per year, with a 7-day free trial.
Roku has partnered with a long list of premium services, including Starz, Paramount+, HBO Max, AMC+, Britbox, Crunchyroll, Shudder, and more, with a full list available on the Roku website. With Roku Channel, premium services are managed through a user’s Roku account. There has been an Apple TV app available on Roku since 2019, but the Roku Channel recommends Apple TV content alongside other content, and makes it easier for customers to subscribe.
Apple TV on the Roku Channel can be watched on a long list of devices, including smart TVs, streaming players from Amazon, Google, and Roku, the web, and on iOS and Android devices.
Apple has a similar feature for third-party services, Apple Channels. With Apple Channels, users can subscribe to premium content through the Apple TV app and manage that content through their Apple Accounts.
MLS, Whitecaps to pay $347K settlement for Lionel Messi absence
March 3 – The Vancouver Whitecaps and Major League Soccer will pay $347,000 to settle a class-action lawsuit filed in Canada after Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi did not appear in a 2024 game as advertised.
The British Columbia Supreme Court approved the settlement, The Athletic reported on Tuesday.
The Whitecaps heavily promoted the appearance of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner ahead of a May 25, 2024 game, anticipating a record-breaking crowd at Vancouver’s BC Place stadium. Ticket prices skyrocketed.
Unfortunately, Messi, who was playing his first full season in MLS that year, ended up not traveling to the game — along with fellow standouts Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets — because then-Miami coach Tata Martino said he wanted to
MLS, Whitecaps to pay $347K settlement for Lionel Messi absence
The Vancouver Whitecaps and Major League Soccer will pay $347,000 to settle a class-action lawsuit filed in Canada after Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi did not appear in a 2024 game as advertised.
The British Columbia Supreme Court approved the settlement, The Athletic reported on Tuesday.
The Whitecaps heavily promoted the appearance of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner ahead of a May 25, 2024 game, anticipating a record-breaking crowd at Vancouver’s BC Place stadium. Ticket prices skyrocketed.
Unfortunately, Messi, who was playing his first full season in MLS that year, ended up not traveling to the game — along with fellow standouts Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets — because then-Miami coach Tata Martino said he wanted to
Fire break ground on new stadium, take lead on city peers and move closer to igniting Chicago soccer
The Fire have spent much of their existence looking for a new home. Now they’re ahead of other Chicago teams in the stadium game.
On Tuesday, the Fire broke ground on their new arena in The 78. The $750 million privately funded facility is expected to open in late summer 2028.
“This isn’t just a stadium, it’s a statement of ambition,” Fire owner and chairman Joe Mansueto said during his speech. “It’s about pride. It’s about believing in the city of Chicago.”
Stadium intrigue has been one of the biggest stories around Chicago sports over the past few years.
Dissatisfied with Rate Field, the White Sox released renderings for a new stadium at The 78. Owner Jerry Reinsdorf even met with Nashville mayor Freddie O’Connell during the 2023 Winter Meetings.
The Bears, currently the Fire’s roommate at Soldier Field, are in the midst of a quixotic quest for a new home that could end up in Arlington Heights or Northwest Indiana. Mayor Brandon Johnson kept Chicago itself in the picture, reiterating Tuesday that the Bears belong within city limits.
Meanwhile, the Fire are two years away from their own field on a desired plot of land. And nothing in the Fire’s history would indicate they’d be in this spot compared to some of their Chicago peers.
In 2006, the Fire thought they had found their long-term home when they moved to suburban Bridgeview. The soccer-specific venue offered intimate sightlines and gave the Fire the first choice of dates for matches.
Though the facility remained a capable host to soccer, by the end of the 2010s it was clear the Fire were looking to exit. The arena had fallen behind newer grounds, and the team’s on-field decline paired with Bridgeview’s location meant attendance plummeted.
In late 2019, Mansueto announced he was moving the Fire back to Soldier Field. Observers predicted it was a temporary solution and not a permanent answer because of inevitable issues with field conditions, choice of dates and creating a soccer atmosphere.
Those problems should be a thing of the past now for the Fire, and the new building could potentially spark a market that’s been underserved by its team. Despite the city’s strong soccer history, whether it’s the old North American Soccer League’s Sting or a flourishing youth and amateur scene, the Fire haven’t been one of MLS’ flagship clubs for over 15 years.
MLS commissioner Don Garber said, around six weeks ago, he drove around the city with Mansueto and visited the team’s new training center. The visit showed Garber again that Chicago is a soccer town.
“The Chicago Fire have had a small but rabid fan base, particularly among their supporters, and they’ve been missing something,” Garber said. “[Mansueto] mentioned it when he talked about his vision. He believes in the city, he believes in this team, believes in the sport, and believes that if he can deliver a best-in-class, world-class soccer stadium, it’ll connect all the dots and give this city what it is that I think they want.
“They want to be a leading city. They’re tired of hearing about other cities that have proven that they can really move the needle in the United States. This city and its fans want to move the needle and I am highly confident that they’ll be able to do that.”
The Fire are in the lead in another category: building a new stadium in the city.
Sports Advertisers Want New Ballgame With Aggressive Sponsorships
When is a two-point conversion really a touchdown?
For the brewers of Dos Equis, multiple times per season.
Since last year, Dos Equis has arranged to become part of the action during select college-football games telecast across ESPN, ABC, SEC and ACC Network getting special on-screen graphics and other elements whenever one of the teams tries to “Go for Dos” and score a two-point conversion. This year, the Heineken brand expanded its support and is expected to cover nearly two thirds of the plays broadcast this season, compared with just under half a year ago. To be sure, there are TV commercials, too.
“We’re not about just interrupting sport. We’re about being a part of it,” says Allison Payne, Heineken USA’s CMO, during a recent interview. The concept helps create a feeling of “doing the unexpected to make life a bit more interesting, and, obviously, make the game more interesting.”
Football commercials and beer go together like, well, what did we just say? But more advertisers like Dos Equis are pressing TV networks to carve out new elements from games during which they can hawk their wares. Such stuff is significantly more complicated than just running an ad and arranging for one of the announcers to bark out “this game is brought to you by….” And TV-sports outlets expect to see a significant uptick in requests for special sponsorships, particularly as sports take on new importance during the industry’s streaming wars, with games representing one of the few programming formats left that can still attract a large audience of simultaneous viewers.
Madison Avenue is pouring new dollars into sports-TV. Disney earlier this year said it sold nearly $4 billion in ad time tied to sports during the industry’s recent “upfront” sales market, when TV networks try to sell the bulk of their commercial inventory. NBCUniversal said its sports properties saw an uptick of 20% in new sponsors during the annual haggle. Amazon’s Prime Video suggested sales tied to sports “provided incremental volume growth for us” during the market.
In a different era, advertisers would use their big budgets to procure similar stuff during primetime dramas and comedies. In the streaming era, “there are fewer meaningful opportunities to do this in entertainment” programming, notes Dan Lovinger, a former head of sports and Olympics sales at NBCU who now leads Lov of the Game Advisors, a consultancy. In years past, advertisers bought sports commercials to reach large audiences. They still do, to be sure, but there appears to be some pressure building to engage more significantly with fans. “Dollars follow eyeballs, and so if the eyeballs are moving to sports, the dollars and creativity will also follow,” Lovinger says.
At Main Street Sports Group, which operates a collection of regional sports outlets known as the FanDuel Sports Network, executives have been working on what they call “trigger ads” that surface at specific sports moments, like a home run or a stolen base. “Is there an ad experience that we can do when there are like three seconds left on the shot clock, or any time that there is a three-pointer or a steal or something?” asks Jim Keller, executive vice president of advertising and sponsorship sales for the FanDuel networks, during an interview. Executives are “focused on finding a way for us to create sponsor moments that actually add to the viewers’ enjoyment of the game.”
Advertisers aren’t guaranteed to hit a marketing home run. Indeed, the live, spontaneous nature of a sports telecast means that tying ad messages to specific moments can be fraught with challenge. Rocket Cos. earlier this year ran an ad during Fox’s broadcast of Super Bowl LIX that used a version of John Denver’s “Country Roads, Take Me Home” to talk about Americans striving for home ownership. Marketing executives then tried to get the crowd watching the live game at New Orleans Caesar’s Superdome to sing along — with decidedly mixed results. When Fox came back to live broadcasting following the commercial break that contained an ad from Rocket, many fans appeared to either ignore the music or look puzzled as to why they should take part.
Fox and the NFL initially turned down the live, in-stadium singing session, believing that there would be more control around the concept if crowds were taped singing the song during pre-game coverage when the network was in commercial breaks. The advertiser insisted on trying to create a live spectacle. Once Fox cut to the commercial break that included the Rocket ad, the stadium crowd as invited to participate via use of promotional announcements, a D.J. and the facility’s various screens.
Getting viewers to associate Dos Equis with the two-point conversions requires “high-level coordination,” says Payne. Ther are traditional commercials, and football announcer Chris Fowler has been enlisted to help emphasize the sponsorship. “We have signage. We have college football team sponsorship, We have tailgate activation,” says Payne. “We are very good at bringing brand experiences to life, but it requires quite an in-depth coordination” between Heineken, Disney, ESPN and Dos Equis’ media agency, Dentsu.
Disney has become more open to similar requests, says Mike Denby, senior vice president of sales for the company. “We believe the more that we do integrations, the more that we elevate brands, it drives results,” he says. At the same time, he adds, the company can’t oversaturate the playing field with dozens of similar ideas during a single game.
Creating other bespoke ad concepts may be as hard as winning the games themselves. Sports remains “an unpredictable format,” notes Lovinger, and advertisers will want guarantees that a special appearance close to a goal, touchdown, stolen base, or foul that can’t always be given. What’s more, some leagues can be very careful about how much space they give advertisers as their games are being played. “There are leagues that are less restrictive in terms of how the broadcasters can access inventory and you’ll probably see more of it there, “says Lovinger.
Dos Equis remains undaunted. “My long-term vision is like, can you imagine whenever two-point conversion is in the cards that the whole stadium is chanting ‘Go for Dos?’ asks Payne. “That’s the Nirvana. I feel like we can get there.”
Trump backs ‘powerful caps’ on college athlete pay
WASHINGTON — President Trump wants “very powerful caps” to limit college athlete salaries so that universities won’t “go out of business.”
Trump told ESPN host Pat McAfee that he fears that “lesser” sports also are being scrapped due to the newly allowed practice of directly paying athletes, which has been allowed since July on top of name, image and likeness (NIL) sponsorships by companies and booster clubs permitted since 2021.
“It is a very serious problem because even football, when they give quarterbacks $12 million, $13 million, $14 million — I read a couple of them — and all of a sudden you’re going to see it’s going to be out of control, and even rich colleges are going to go bust,” Trump said in a Tuesday interview.
“They had the old way. They gave scholarships, and they did lots of good things. But there could be some form of payments, but… look, the NFL, and all of you know, all teams, they have caps. You don’t really have that in college sports,” the president said.
“When the guard comes along that weighs 350 pounds and he’s phenomenal, and they say, ‘That’s going to make the difference between having a great team and a lousy team’, and they give him $10 million — that’s going to start happening pretty soon — all of a sudden you’re going to have NFL-type payrolls.”
The reform allowing for direct payment of players by universities came through a court-approved settlement involving the NCAA, with an estimated initial annual cap of $20.5 million per player. Without changes, the salary cap is expected to rise to $33 million over the next decade, CBS Sports reported.
Trump, whose administration this year paused federal grants to prominent universities to force policy changes, added, “colleges don’t make that much money, even the most successful, so they’re not going to be able to do this. Bad things are going to happen unless they figure this out…
“And frankly, the college football, it’s very big. But as big as it is, if they don’t do some very powerful caps, these colleges are all going to go out of business no matter how rich they are.”
Trump floated Nick Saban, the retired longtime football coach at the University of Alabama, as a potential point person to lead a group to devise new salary caps.
“I don’t want to use any particular sport, because it’s, you know, degrading. But they are really terminating a lot of sports… you would call them lesser sports, but big sports, good sports, and sports where they have tremendous interest, they’re getting rid of them,” Trump added.
“A lot of the lesser sports are being totally terminated. You know that? It’s a shame. It was almost like a training ground for the Olympics, and a lot of those training grounds are being lost.”
Mavs honoring VP of corporate sponsorships Billy Phillips as he retires after 33 years
A wave of emotion overcame Billy Phillips as he went through a list of acknowledgements that included his Dallas Mavericks colleagues, corporate sponsorship partners and immediate family.
Phillips, the Mavericks’ longtime vice president of corporate sponsorships, was the final voice to speak on Saturday to commemorate his retirement after 33 years of tenure with the franchise. It was a celebration inside the Executive Lounge at American Airlines Center to honor one of the most respected employees in the team’s 45-year history.
“Many of you know his Dallas Mavericks legacy and what he’s done for this community, but what he’s done for the overall sports business community in North Texas is unparalleled,” said Gina Miller, the Mavericks’ new chief communications officer.
Phillips’ storied sports legacy in the Dallas-Fort Worth area didn’t start in basketball. The Long Island, N.Y., native played soccer as a goalkeeper from 1980 to 1981 for the Dallas Tornado in the North American Soccer League. He played an instrumental role with the Dallas Sidekicks, both as a player from 1984 to 1987 and manager from 1987 to 1996.
Phillips helped establish soccer in North Texas in the 1970s and 1980s, and the momentum led to Dallas being the host city for the 1994 FIFA World Cup. The quadrennial international men’s soccer tournament will return in 2026, with AT&T Stadium hosting nine matches in Arlington, including a semi-final game. FC Dallas president Dan Hunt said Phillips played a role in the Cup’s return.
Phillips joined the Mavericks in 1992 as a senior director of corporate sponsorship. He was promoted to vice president in 2018, the role he serves in currently until his final day on Dec. 23. As an athlete, he can’t help but reflect on the team’s lone championship in 2011 as a standout moment, but the people he worked with is what he’ll cherish the most.
“At the end of the day, it’s relationships,” Phillips said. “I have so many amazing relationships from people who work for the Mavericks and partners that I’ve worked with now…It’s always the people who’s the most important part of my job.”
Several influential people around the Mavericks spoke during Phillips’ retirement ceremony, including minority shareholder Mark Cuban and CEO Rick Welts. Co-interim general manager Michael Finley was also in attendance.
“This man can sell,” Cuban said. “Billy has been a rock, not just for the young salespeople, but for the whole organization. When things were up, when things were down, Billy was steady. Billy has this calming influence that he brings to anybody that he’s met, but he also can sell. What’s the rule, Billy?”
“If you’re talking to someone, you better have a check,” Phillips said.
The celebration didn’t stop during the pregame. Phillips was honored during halftime of Saturday’s game with a tribute video, which included cameos by Dirk Nowitzki and former Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle. Mavericks coach Jason Kidd began his pregame news conference with a congratulatory message for Phillips.
“I want to congratulate Billy Phillips,” Kidd said. “He’s retiring after 33 years with the Mavs. He’s a big influence in sports here in Dallas. Goalkeeper for the Dallas Sidekicks. He did everything and he’s a big reason why soccer is coming to Dallas for the Cup.”
Twitter/X: @MikeACurtis2
TKO Stock Slides despite Receiving a New Street-High Price Target
TKO Group Holdings (TKO) had a standout year in 2025, thanks to major media rights deals and a surge in sponsorships. In fact, the sports and entertainment company signed agreements to broadcast UFC and Zuffa Boxing with Paramount (PSKY) and licensed WWE content through Endeavor Group. These deals were big enough that TKO raised its outlook for the year, and the stock climbed by more than 50%, thereby making it one of the top performers in its sector.
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Importantly, analysts believe there’s more room to grow, even after this big run. For instance, BTIG analyst Tyler DiMatteo noted that 2026 looks promising for both the sports and entertainment industry and TKO specifically. While he does expect some short-term ups and downs due to the stock’s recent surge, he’s comfortable giving TKO a higher valuation. He points to strong consumer interest in live events and what many call the “experience economy” as key reasons why the company should keep performing well.
TKO is also betting on newer trends, such as prediction markets. It signed a multi-year deal with Polymarket that will apply to UFC and Zuffa Boxing in an attempt to increase fan engagement. Interestingly, that market was worth $1.4 billion in 2024 and could grow to $95.5 billion by 2035. As a result, DiMatteo gave TKO a Buy rating and raised his price target to a street high of $250 per share.
Is TKO Stock a Good Buy?
Turning to Wall Street, analysts have a Strong Buy consensus rating on TKO stock based on 14 Buys, one Hold, and zero Sells assigned in the past three months, as indicated by the graphic below. Furthermore, the average TKO price target of $225.73 per share implies 7.9% upside potential.
See more TKO analyst ratings
How shared values drove Ferrari’s first crypto partnership: Interview with BingX
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The multi-year agreement between Formula One racing team Scuderia Ferrari and crypto exchange BingX represents the Italian team’s first partnership with a crypto exchange.
For Vivien Lin, Chief Product Officer at BingX, the connection is built on performance rather than just visibility. She notes that Ferrari’s “engineering excellence and uncompromising standards” mirror the platform’s own approach, stating that the goal is to demonstrate that a crypto exchange can operate with the “same discipline, transparency and ambition” as the iconic automotive brand.
In this interview, Lin sheds light on the strategic vision behind the collaboration, the maturity of the crypto landscape and how shared values with Ferrari are influencing BingX’s global roadmap.
Cointelegraph: How is the convergence of high-performance sports and financial technology reshaping global marketing strategies?
Vivien Lin: High-performance sports attract fans who are deeply committed and loyal, much like the community we’ve built at BingX with our 40 million users. In Formula 1, this engagement is clear. Recent research shows that 94% of fans plan to follow the sport five years from now, and 86% watch at least 16 races each season.
This kind of loyalty gives us a unique chance for us to build lasting relationships, not just short-term awareness. In my experience, it’s rare to find a partnership that fits so well. I also believe that sponsorship shapes how fans experience the sport.
The same research found that about three-quarters of fans think sponsors make Formula 1 better, and one in three are more likely to buy from F1 partners. For Gen Z, that number rises to 40%. For BingX, this trend means our marketing is now more focused on values, performance and long-term relevance, not just visibility.
CT: Why are elite sporting institutions increasingly looking toward the cryptocurrency sector for strategic alliances?
VL: In our experience, elite sports organizations have always focused on progress and winning. To stay ahead, they keep evolving, adopt new technologies and look to the future. The crypto sector and BingX share this forward-thinking approach, so there is a unique purpose behind these partnerships.
Furthermore, 2026 marks a change. As the industry grows, crypto is now about infrastructure, security and global access — not just experimentation. Sports organizations see this obvious shift and want to work with partners who are leading the way. These partnerships show a shared belief that responsible innovation can create lasting value for people around the world.
CT: What does the evolving relationship between Formula 1 and digital assets signal about the maturity of the crypto industry?
VL: The growing relationship between Formula 1 and digital assets is a strong signal that the crypto industry is entering a more mature phase. One that is defined less by speculation and more by credibility, infrastructure and long-term brand building.
Both Formula 1 and crypto are built on resilience. Progress is never linear. There are moments of rapid innovation, periods of pressure and times when patience matters more than speed. After seven years in this industry, I’ve seen crypto evolve through multiple cycles, shaped by both breakthroughs and hard lessons. Formula 1 understands this reality deeply.
From BingX’s perspective, Formula 1 represents the highest standards of performance, precision and trust. It is a global sport governed by rigorous regulation and scrutiny. The fact that teams and stakeholders are increasingly selective about their partners reflects how the crypto industry itself is changing.
Partnerships today are about values, governance and the ability to perform at scale. As the industry matures, we are seeing leading crypto platforms focus on compliance, security and user protection, foundational elements that are essential for long-term adoption.
The presence of digital asset companies in Formula 1 signals that these platforms are now capable of meeting the expectations of world-class institutions and global audiences. It also reflects a move away from short-term hype toward sustainable engagement and education.
CT: How does becoming a cryptocurrency partner for Ferrari differentiate BingX from its competitors?
VL: This partnership is significant not only because of Ferrari’s global brand and history, but also because it marks their first collaboration with a cryptocurrency exchange, which we do not take lightly. For BingX, it reinforces our position as a top-of-mind brand in crypto and reflects how far we’ve come as a platform.
For example, we were the first major exchange to introduce copy trading, which helped us become recognized as a top 5 derivatives platform, and today we are the first all-in-AI crypto exchange, with a $300 million commitment to implementing AI across our platform. It shows that we are seen as a long-term partner capable of meeting the standards of one of motorsport’s most iconic teams.
CT: What specific shared values between BingX and Scuderia Ferrari form the foundation of this multi-year collaboration?
VL: At the heart of this collaboration is a shared mindset of pioneering breakthroughs and redefining what’s possible. Both BingX and Scuderia Ferrari operate in environments where precision, performance and continuous innovation matter deeply.
Ferrari’s culture of constant innovation, race after race and season after season, closely mirrors how BingX approaches product innovation and platform evolution. We also share a long-term view that goes beyond short-term wins. There is a strong mutual respect for data, technology and discipline, as well as a belief that innovation should always be purposeful.
On the product side, this philosophy translates directly into action. Just as Ferrari continuously refines performance to push limits on the track, BingX is committed to helping traders go beyond their current potential through continuous platform upgrades, BingX Academy and AI-driven innovation.
CT: How do you plan to turn this partnership into tangible benefits for the BingX trading community?
VL: For us, partnerships like this are about delivering a more premium experience for our users. We are intentional about who we align with because those relationships reflect how we build our platform and our community.
Our partnerships with globally respected teams like Chelsea Football Club and Ferrari are not coincidences. They represent excellence, discipline and a commitment to performing at the highest level.
For our trading community, this translates into elevated experiences, stronger engagement and a brand they can trust and feel proud to be part of. Whether markets are moving fast or slowing down, our focus remains on quality, reliability and long-term value. These partnerships, along with racing-inspired campaigns, race-week activations and limited-edition experiences, reinforce that we are building BingX to operate at a global, premium standard.
CT: How does aligning with the most iconic team in motorsport reinforce BingX’s commitment to security and technological excellence?
VL: Ferrari’s reputation is built on precision, reliability and performance under pressure. Partnering with a team of that caliber reinforces how we think about building BingX and our own commitment to building secure, resilient and high-performing systems.
For years, we’ve focused on creating a resilient, AI-native platform, with intelligence embedded directly into the trading experience and a long-term $300 million commitment to AI.
In crypto, trust is built through infrastructure, not promises. We treat security as a foundation, supported by proof-based protections such as a $150 million Shield Fund and 100% proof-of-reserves.
This partnership reflects confidence in our technology and governance, and it sends a clear message that innovation and security are not trade-offs. They must work together to create a platform that can perform at a global, world-class standard.
CT: How will this alliance influence BingX’s strategic roadmap and expansion plans over the next few years?
VL: This partnership builds on a foundation we’ve already established. With over 40 million users globally and a position among the top five derivatives trading platforms, BingX has reached a scale where brand trust, consistency and global relevance matter more than ever.
Our multi-year partnership with Chelsea Football Club reflects that same thinking. Whether on the pitch or in the market, we align with teams that operate at the highest level of performance.
Working with Ferrari represents the next stage of that journey. It opens new opportunities for global storytelling, deeper regional engagement and innovation across markets. More importantly, it aligns with our long-term view of crypto as part of global finance and culture, not a niche industry.
CT: What role will this partnership play in BingX’s long-term goal to redefine standards within the cryptocurrency landscape?
Partnerships like this help set a new benchmark for what crypto brands can represent. They show that it’s possible to combine innovation with discipline, and ambition with responsibility.
Our goal is to help move the industry forward by building trust, raising standards and focusing on long-term value. If crypto wants to be part of global culture, it must meet the standards of the world’s most demanding institutions. This partnership is our commitment to that future.
NCAA D1 Cabinet Approves Jersey Patch Sponsorships in College Sports
If you felt that the influx of NIL and other cash influences had already thoroughly corrupted college sports, you may want to brace yourself.
The NCAA Division I Cabinet voted to approve jersey patch sponsorships in college sports. The new ruling will take effect on August 1, allowing patches to be placed on uniforms just in time for the start of the 2026 college football season.
“College sports are in an exciting new era of increased financial benefits for student-athletes, and the Cabinet’s vote today reflects the ongoing commitment of Division I members to drive additional revenues and fully fund those benefits,” said Illinois Athletics Director and D-I Cabinet chair, Josh Whitman, in a statement.
“This also continues the NCAA’s efforts to expand flexibility in areas of NCAA rules, thereby allowing schools and conferences to set standards that reflect their values and serve their unique needs. This important policy change is another step forward in advancing that philosophy and providing members with increased flexibility.”
As On3 reports, “Under the new legislation, schools will be able to place up to two additional commercial logos on uniforms and one additional logo on equipment during both the preseason and postseason. They can also add another logo on uniforms and apparel during conference championships.
“Patches are limited to a maximum of 4 square inches per logo, according to the NCAA. The legislation is in effect for non-NCAA championship competition.”
In anticipation of the rule’s passing, several schools, most notably LSU and UNLV, have already inked sponsorship deals.
The move will undoubtedly accelerate the commercialization of the game-day experience. In the last two years, fans in the stands and those watching at home have seen the emergence of company logos on the field and on the court, resulting from the House v. NCAA settlement approval.
Adding sponsorship patches to jerseys will create yet another revenue stream for college athletics, likely adding tens of millions of dollars annually.
Watch Brands Increasingly Turn to Sports for Spark
Could sports be the tonic that revives the luxury watch market?
Over the past few months, Swiss watch brands have lined up to announce multimillion-dollar deals with elite professional sports leagues and athletes, hoping to leverage their star power and the emotions of sports fandom to fire up a cooling market.
Last week, Breitling became the latest high-end brand to hitch its wagon to Formula 1, signing a deal with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1 Team, adding to a deal it announced in August to be the official timepiece partner of the National Football League (N.F.L.).
In November, Norqain became what it called the Official Luxury Sports Watch of the National Hockey League (N.H.L.), and in January Frederique Constant introduced its first sports sponsorship, connecting with the nascent Pro Padel League, in which athletes compete in padel, a game often described as a cross between squash and tennis.
Brands such as Rolex, Omega and TAG Heuer have built their profiles on ties with sports, but in today’s saturated market, can sports sponsorships really help brands achieve their goals?
Fears of foreign influence spark bipartisan crackdown on college sports funding
Student-athletes are increasingly exploring name, image and likeness contracts to benefit from their emerging stardoms. But lawmakers want to make sure those deals don’t provide loopholes for foreign adversaries to exert their influence in the United States.
Utah Rep. Blake Moore introduced the No Foreign NIL Funds Act on Tuesday that would implement a number of restrictions banning foreign governments and adversarial entities from investing in U.S. college sports. The bill would mostly apply to NIL contracts, but it would also extend to sponsorships, media rights deals, hosting amateur athletic conferences, and other joint ventures.
“College sports are woven into American campus life, local communities, and family traditions. But allowing foreign entities to funnel money and sponsorships into college athletics through NIL deals risks undermining the integrity of the game and exposing universities to unintended foreign influence or national security concerns,” Moore, a former student-athlete himself, said in a statement. “NIL should be used to support college athletes, not as a backdoor for moving foreign money into American institutions.”
Since NIL contracts have been accepted in recent years, lawmakers have struggled to adopt comprehensive laws regulating those deals. As a result, there are no federal restrictions banning foreign governments from funding those contracts so long as the agreements are cleared through a list of requirements settled in the House vs. NCAA lawsuit in 2024.
That settlement now allows each school to pay its athletes up to $20.5 million per year, which works out to about 22% of the average athletic department revenue at Power Four schools.
However, many of the organizations that coordinate NIL contracts operate as limited liability companies, or LLCs, that do not require donor lists to be made public. That has raised national security concerns among some lawmakers who said adversarial countries could quietly pour money into a university’s sports program and try to build political influence or gain leverage.
The bill would go beyond those NIL contracts to also block foreign countries from investing in collegiate athletic streams, and it would prohibit entering into contracts with individual universities, media rights distributors, bowl games or postseason football organizations.
Bill would have exceptions for foreign NIL donations
The legislation would carve out some exceptions to allow members of NATO, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland to still participate in those contracts.
Moore pointed to recent incidents in which college football coaches have engaged in foreign trips for lobbying or fundraising as well as some athletic conferences who are finalizing plans to organize tournaments in foreign countries.
The bill has garnered the support of bipartisan lawmakers, and even has the backing of Utah State University’s athletic director, who said it’s crucial “to create a safe and sustainable future.”
“Utah State Athletics firmly supports our student-athletes and their ability to seek name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities through the appropriate channels,” USU athletic director Cameron Walker said. “However, the origin of these sources is critical for NIL to function effectively and operate in the best interest of our university, state, and student-athletes. We are thankful for Congressman Moore’s work in this area and support his efforts to create a safe and sustainable future.”
Arkansas Razorback athletics announces its jersey sponsor
Recently, the Tyson Foods logo has shown up on the field at Razorback Stadium.
Now, the iconic food brand will be on the Razorback uniforms for all varsity sports beginning in 2026-27. Under the new multi-year agreement, Tyson Foods will also serve as the official protein of the Arkansas Razorbacks.
Expect to see the Tyson Foods brand on things such as backdrops for press conferences, stadium branding with on field/court placements.
“This historic sponsorship is transformative for Razorback Athletics. For decades, Tyson Foods has been more than a corporate partner—they are an integral part of the Arkansas story,
Iron Maiden Sets ‘Run For Your Lives’ Tour of Australia
Iron Maiden will bring their brand of heavy metal thunder down under later this year.
The British heavy metal legends today (Feb. 27) announce the Australia dates of their Run For Your Lives World Tour, where they’ll play stadiums for the first time in both Melbourne and Sydney, and arenas in Adelaide and Brisbane.
Megadeth are special guests on the four-date run, which will get underway Nov. 11 at Adelaide Entertainment Centre, before hitting Melbourne’s AAMI Park (Nov. 13), Sydney’s Allianz Stadium (Nov. 15), and wrapping up Nov. 18 at Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
The Australia visit will mark Iron Maiden’s eighth, dating back to November 1982. Australians can’t get enough of them; Iron Maiden was here fewer than two years ago, in September 2024.
“This will be Iron Maiden’s biggest tour of Australia ever,” explains TEG Dainty president Paul Dainty, producer of the forthcoming run. “Headlining stadiums in Melbourne and Sydney for the first time in their 50-year history is a massive moment. And with Megadeth joining the tour, this is going to be an absolute powerhouse night of metal — two giants of the genre, one colossal production, and a show Australian fans won’t know what hit them.”
Iron Maiden has had a solid week. On Wednesday, the band’s name was called out for nomination into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame. And earlier, on Tuesday, Universal Pictures International (UPI) unveiled Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition, a feature film that’s said to trace the rockers’ “remarkable five‑decade journey” with “unprecedented access” to the rockers’ official archives.
Formed in East London in 1975, Iron Maiden are titans of the heavy genre, with 17 studio albums, over 100 million records sold, and more than 2,500 performances across 64 countries. In September 2021, Iron Maiden earned its highest charting album ever on the Billboard 200 as Senjutsu debuted at No. 3.
General public tickets for the Australia shows go on sale Friday, March 6.
Run For Your Lives Australia Dates
Nov. 11 — Adelaide Entertainment Centre
Nov. 13 — AAMI Park, Melbourne
Nov. 15 — Allianz Stadium, Sydney
Nov. 18 — Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Olympic gold draws crowd to local ice rink
More than a decade ago, a little girl in Española watched TV coverage of the Olympics — dazzled by figure skaters dancing, spinning and leaping across the ice in glittering getups.
That little girl grew up to be 26-year-old Danekah Johnson, who, after years of dreaming, started taking lessons several weeks ago.
“When I go home, I’m a mother and I’m a wife and I was an airman, but when I step on the ice — I’m Danekah,” Johnson said. “I get to wear my pink. I get to be a girl. I get to have these two hours to myself.”
More and more adults like Johnson are pursuing figure skating for the first time after watching Olympic athletes like Alysa Liu take home gold in this year’s winter games in Italy.
The local skating rink, Outpost Ice Arenas, has seen a “massive” increase in interest, said figure skating director Cleo Drobrik. Around 300 people signed up for their latest round of skating lessons, which is typically the number that the rink sees for the entire year, she said.
The uptick began in earnest, Drobrik said, in the past two weeks, while the Winter Olympics aired on TV.
Drobrik also noted that more people have signed up for curling classes post-Olympics, though to a lesser extent.
What draws people to the ice is different for everyone, Drobrik said. For some it’s the shimmering outfits and competition dreams, while for others it’s simply a fun workout with friends and family.
“You’re out there on your own, and it’s your deal — it’s you,” she said. “The amount of work that you put in individually is what you’re gonna get out of it.”
Another draw, Drobrik said, is the longevity of the sport. Figure skating is a “life sport” that can be picked up at any age and enjoyed for a lifetime, she said.
That claim is reflected in Outpost’s demographics.
Unlike other rinks that focus on children and young adults, at Outpost this year’s signups came from hopeful skaters of all ages, with a solid percentage of beginners being middle-aged and older adults, Drobrik said.
“It doesn’t matter how old you are, how young you are — you can be out here,” she said.
And there’s no better example than 85-year-old Madeline Nasby, who rehearsed a program to the theme of “2001: A Space Odyssey,” skimming the ice to the classic sci-fi film’s iconic crescendos Thursday afternoon.
While Nasby is far from a beginner, having skated off and on for 80 years, Drobrik said her dedication is an inspiration for beginners and pros alike.
“I want to be like you when I’m grown up,” Drobrik told Nasby as the two rested after practice.
Though Nasby said she can no longer keep track of the lifetime medals she’s won, her passion runs much deeper than accolades.
“My emotional, physical and mental output — it’s all entwined with this,” Nasby said while unlacing her skates. “It keeps me going and alive. And I wouldn’t be doing this now, I wouldn’t be in this health. It’s been very, very special.”
Report: WNBA players’ union sends offer to league with revenue sharing, housing concessions
NEW YORK — The WNBA players’ union sent a counterproposal to the league Friday night for a new collective bargaining agreement that included some concessions on revenue sharing and housing — two key areas on which the sides differ — according to a person familiar with the negotiations.
The person spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the negotiations.
The union’s proposal came a week after it received one from the league. The WNBA told the union Monday during a virtual negotiating session that it needs to get a deal in place by March 10 to start the season on time, another person familiar with the discussions told the AP. That person spoke on condition of anonymity Monday because of the sensitive nature of the negotiations.
In the new proposal, the union is asking for 26% of the gross revenue — revenue before expenses — with the salary cap for teams around $9.5 million in the first year. That number is unchanged from the union’s previous offer. The revenue sharing is down from 27.5% from the union’s proposal from 10 days ago.
The WNBA had offered more than 70% of net revenue in its last proposal. That would be their take of the profits after expenses are paid. Those expenses would include upgraded facilities, charter flights, five-star hotels, medical services, security and arenas.
The union also tweaked its housing offer. The union is still asking teams to provide housing for all players in the first few years of the deal, but in the latter part of the CBA teams wouldn’t have to provide housing for players making at least 75% of the maximum salary.
The league had offered that its teams would pay for all housing this season. Then franchises would pay for housing for players on minimum salary contracts as well as rookies in their first season, the person said.
They’d also pay for the housing of the two developmental players that teams would be allowed to have.
Front Office Sports was the first to report the counterproposal.
If a labor deal is agreed to by March 10, it probably would be signed by the end of the month. Under that timeline, the expansion draft for new franchises in Portland and Toronto would be held sometime between April 1-6, according to a timetable obtained by the AP.
Free agent qualifying offers, including franchise player tags, would be sent out April 7-8. Teams would then have three days to negotiate with the more than 80% of players who are free agents. The signing period would take place from April 12-18.
Training camps would open the next day and the season would be able to start on May 8.
The league and the players have been unable to reach a new collective bargaining agreement since the union opted out of the previous deal, which expired last year.
Hombre desaparecido desde San Valentín es rescatado de arenas movedizas
Andrew Giddens estuvo varios días sumergido hasta los hombros en una zona de extracción de arena en el condado de Putnam; fue trasladado en estado crítico a un hospital de trauma.
ORLANDO, Florida.- Un hombre reportado como desaparecido desde el 14 de febrero fue rescatado esta semana tras ser encontrado atrapado hasta los hombros en una zona de lodo tipo “arenas movedizas” en el noreste del estado, informaron autoridades.
Se trata de Andrew Giddens, de 36 años y residente de Jacksonville, quien había sido visto por última vez el Día de San Valentín. Familiares alertaron a las autoridades después de no tener noticias suyas y expresar preocupación por su estado emocional tras una ruptura reciente.
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De acuerdo con la Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, el vehículo de Giddens fue localizado el 23 de febrero cerca de una propiedad industrial perteneciente a Vulcan Materials Company, en el condado de Putnam. Un agente que lo había contactado en un incidente previo de allanamiento en 2023 reconoció el automóvil y solicitó revisar el área.
Fue durante esa inspección que equipos de emergencia lo encontraron en una zona de extracción de arena, parcialmente oculto entre vegetación y sumergido en lodo inestable.
Notas Relacionadas
Rescate complejo en terreno inestable
Autoridades detallaron que el hombre permaneció varios días atrapado sin acceso a comida ni agua. Además, las bajas temperaturas registradas en la zona durante las noches complicaron aún más su condición física.
El operativo de rescate estuvo a cargo del cuerpo de Rescate de Incendios del Condado Putnam, con apoyo de departamentos de bomberos de jurisdicciones cercanas. Los rescatistas utilizaron escaleras, cuerdas y tablas para distribuir el peso sobre el terreno inestable y evitar que tanto la víctima como el personal de emergencia quedaran completamente sumergidos.
Las labores se extendieron por aproximadamente dos a tres horas debido a la fragilidad del terreno y al riesgo de colapso del lodo. Finalmente, Giddens fue liberado alrededor de las 8:30 p.m., según informaron las autoridades.
Tras ser extraído, fue trasladado en helicóptero a un centro de trauma regional en estado crítico, presentando signos de deshidratación severa y agotamiento extremo por la prolongada exposición a las condiciones ambientales.
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La oficina del sheriff indicó que, dadas las circunstancias y su condición médica, no se contemplan cargos por allanamiento relacionados con su presencia en la propiedad industrial.
Las autoridades no han ofrecido detalles adicionales sobre cómo llegó exactamente al área ni sobre su estado de salud actualizado, pero confirmaron que la investigación del caso continúa.
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On the road with the Sabres this season
Buffalo News reporter Rachel Lenzi heads to the Buffalo Sabres morning skate at TD Garden in Boston on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025.
The Buffall Sabres lost 6-3 Nov. 8 at Carolina. Here’s a look at the pregame scene at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C.
The Montreal Canadiens pay tribute to their legends outside the Bell Centre in Montreal on Monday, Oct. 20, 2025.
Toronto’s fans came to Buffalo in force, on a night when the Maple Leafs played the Sabres and the Blue Jays faced the Los Angeles Dodgers in …
The Toronto Maple Leafs take the ice at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto before a game against the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025
The Buffalo Sabres practiced Nov. 11 at the Utah Mammoth’s new headquarters and training facility in Sandy, Utah.
The Buffalo Sabres played the Utah Mammoth at the Delta Center on Nov. 12 in Salt Lake City.
The Buffalo Sabres continued a four-game road trip Thursday against the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena in Denver.
The pregame scene at Pittsburgh’s PPG Paints Arena
A video projection system gives the backdrop to the warmup sessions for the Sabres and Winnipeg Jets in Canada Life Centre on Dec. 5, 2025.
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Gilbert Arenas Goes Off on USC Over Chad Baker
There was a time not long ago when USC had designs on playing in the NCAA men’s tournament for the first time since joining the Big Ten.
Now, the Trojans are just hoping to keep the band together for their final two regular season games. On Sunday, to the surprise of the college hoops world, USC guard Chad Baker-Mazara—the Trojans’ leading scorer—departed the program.
Throwing gasoline on a five-alarm fire in Exposition Park, ex-Arizona and NBA star Gilbert Arenas—the father of current USC guard Alijah Arenas—took to social media Sunday night to profanely demand Baker-Mazara and the Trojans reconcile their differences.
“This is what we’re doing? Our best player? Mr. ‘I Get Buckets?’ Every night. He brings it every night. Guaranteed 18, 20 every night,” Gilbert said. “I don’t know who he cussed out. But get over it! He’s right!”
Baker-Mazara, 26, is on his fourth Division I school since beginning his college basketball journey back in 2021. He spent 2021 with Duquesne, 2022 with San Diego State (where he was named the Mountain West’s Sixth Man of the Year), 2023 in the junior college ranks, and 2024 to 2025 with Auburn.
Mirroring the Santo Domingo native’s career, the Trojans have endured a rollercoaster 2026 season. USC started the season 8-0 and cracked the AP Poll twice in December, but lost its fifth consecutive game to No. 12 Nebraska Saturday at an inopportune time. During the Trojans’ game against the Cornhuskers, Baker-Mazara appeared to exit the team’s bench and sit near fans.
“When you the best player on the team, whatever you say, you right,” Gilbert said. “Give him the ball, get the f— out the way. That’s the offense. Damn. We supposed to be playing in the tournament, man. Now we gotta watch this junior varsity-ass team.”
USC has two games left before the Big Ten tournament: a trip to Washington on Wednesday and a home game against rival UCLA on Saturday.
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Gilbert Arenas blasts USC over Chad Baker-Mazara departure
Gilbert Arenas isn’t having it.
The former NBA All-Star and father of USC’s top remaining basketball player was livid over the Trojans’ announcement of the departure of guard Chad Baker-Mazara on Sunday.
“This is what we doing? Mr. I Get Buckets?” Arenas, the father of freshman guard Alijah Arenas, said while wearing a USC jersey in a video posted on X. “Every night, he brings it every night – guaranteed 18, 20 [points] every night.”
Gilbert Arenas later alluded to possible problems that precipitated Baker-Mazara’s departure, depriving the team of its top two scorers after guard Rodney Rice was lost to a shoulder injury in November after only six games.
A dynamic scorer who averaged 18.5 points this season, Baker-Mazara erupted for 25 points and made five 3-pointers during the Trojans’ loss to rival UCLA last week.
“I don’t know who he cussed out,” Gilbert Arenas continued. “But get over it! He’s right! When you the best player on the team, you right! … Give him the ball, get the f— out of the way! That’s the offense! Damn! We’re supposed to be playing in the tournament, man. Now we’ve got to watch this junior varsity-ass team playing by them goddamn selves!”
Baker-Mazara suffered an apparent leg injury a few minutes into the second half on Saturday after chasing down Nebraska’s Pryce Sandfort in transition to block his shot.
After falling hard along the baseline and briefly leaving the court, Baker-Mazara returned to sit near Rice alongside fans in courtside seats on the baseline.
USC coach Eric Musselman downplayed Baker-Mazara’s sitting near fans afterward, saying, “I’m pretty sure he’s been sitting there all year. … I think it’s just lack of number of seats” on the team bench.
Musselman did not provide an update on the nature or severity of Baker-Mazara’s injury. A day later, the Trojans’ top remaining scorer was gone.
The absences of Rice and Baker-Mazara will take their combined averages of 38.8 points, 8.8 assists and 7.5 rebounds off the board for a team trying to fight its way into the NCAA tournament after having lost five straight games. USC will presumably lean heavily on freshman Alijah Arenas and forward Ezra Ausar to provide offense the rest of the season.
The Trojans (18-11 overall, 7-11 Big Ten) face Washington in Seattle on Wednesday before returning home to play UCLA on Saturday at the Galen Center in their final regular-season game.
USC represented Baker-Mazara’s fifth college stop after the 26-year-old previously played at Auburn, Northwest Florida State College, San Diego State and Duquesne. His next stop will presumably come in the pros.
Gilbert Arenas is not happy with USC basketball
Gilbert Arenas is not happy with USC’s basketball program, which could call his son’s future into question.
Arenas was sharply critical of the Trojans over the departure of guard Chad Baker-Mazara over the weekend. In a social media post, he suggested the Trojans should ask Baker-Mazara to come back, and referenced recent rumors of discord between Baker-Mazara and the program as something that people needed to “get over.”
“Right before the tournament, this is what we doing? Our best player? Mr. I Get Buckets? He brings it every night. Guaranteed 18, 20 every night,” Arenas said. “I don’t know who he cussed out, but get over it. He’s right. When you’re the best player on the team, you’re right. If he says them n—as suck, he’s right. We’re watching the game. Give him the ball and get the f— out the way.”
Arenas’ son Alijah is a top recruit and an important part of USC’s team. Since making a belated season debut following an injury, Alijah Arenas is averaging 13.9 points per game, and may even see his role expand with Baker-Mazara dismissed from the team.
Still, it’s fair to question Arenas’ future with the program if his father is this unhappy with the Trojans. Alijah could look to transfer or even try to turn pro, though he himself has not weighed in on any of this yet.
Baker-Mazara had been averaging 18.5 points per game before leaving the program and was the Trojans’ leading scorer.
USC men travel uncertain path minus Chad Baker-Mazara
One more road game, one less offensive piece.
When the USC men’s basketball team takes the court against Washington in its second-to-last game of the Big Ten Conference regular season, it will do so without its leading scorer.
The Trojans announced Sunday afternoon that Chad Baker-Mazara is no longer with the team after an up-and-down season with the 6-foot-7 graduate student from the Dominican Republic.
There was no reason given for his departure, and the press release appeared carefully worded as if not meaning to place blame on either party.
“Chad Baker-Mazara is no longer a member of the USC Men’s Basketball program, the team announced Sunday,” was the only information given.
The Southern California New Group has sent requests for comments to Baker-Mazara and his management, but neither had responded as of Monday.
Baker-Mazara was scoring 18.5 points per game for USC and there were 11 games in which he had scored 20 or more points this season. He burst onto the scene this season with his non-stop energy and sharp shooting, though he missed multiple practices early in the season due to “neck pain.”
Head coach Eric Musselman also told reporters on a Zoom call in late October that Baker-Mazara sometimes took freedom within game plans.
“He has his own defensive scheme in his mind,” Musselman said. “I don’t know if he necessarily always follows the game plan or the game scheme that I’ve put out, but he’s got this knack to create loose balls and steals and fly around and he confuses me and he also confuses the offense on the other team.”
Still, Baker-Mazara’s talent was enough to earn him his second straight Maui Invitational MVP honors in November, and there were some tender moments with the team as well.
Baker-Mazara brought his teammates water in between drills at practice, and USC held a confetti-filled, post-practice ring ceremony in September when he received his Final Four ring from an NCAA Tournament run with Auburn last season.
“This is motivation. We’ve got to get ours now,” Baker-Mazara told his teammates while holding the ring.
@haleymsawyer
The USC men’s basketball team honored Chad Baker-Mazara’s Final Four run with Auburn last season with a ring ceremony at the end of practice on Tuesday. #usc #auburn #collegebasketball #teammates #finalfour
♬ original sound – Haley Sawyer
He seemed to be getting along well with Musselman, and said that the two shared a similar competitive spirit when he spoke with reporters in mid-September.
“I’m enjoying Coach Muss because me and him got that edge, that passionate edge,” he said. “That has brought me closer with him and that, to me – I’m enjoying it a little bit more.”
But by the time the Trojans had gotten into the pressures of February, the optimism was wavering. Baker-Mazara missed three games due to a knee injury and appeared to be dealing with pain against UCLA and Nebraska – USC’s two most recent games.
He played 19 minutes in the loss to the Cornhuskers on Saturday before a hard fall kept him out of the rest of the game. He sat on the bench adjacent to the team bench – where he has sat on many occasions this season – next to injured point guard Rodney Rice and an unknown woman wearing a USC basketball jersey.
Baker-Mazara continued to walk to team huddles with a limp during timeouts but never re-entered the game. Musselman gave short answers when asked about him after the game.
“He said he couldn’t go,” he said.
USC’s reserves stepped up in his absence. Jaden Brownell came off the bench to score 10 points and added five rebounds and three blocked shots – both team-highs. Freshman Alijah Arenas scored 14 points in the first of his 10 games that he wasn’t in the starting rotation.
Arenas, who missed most of this season due to injury, also had zero turnovers after giving up the ball five times against UCLA.
“A player that reclassifies and gets thrown into the middle of Big Ten play – he’s got a lot of stuff on his plate that’s getting thrown at him in the middle of the year towards the tail end of the season.”
Arenas’ dad, former NBA All-Star and podcast host Gilbert Arenas, took to social media to share frustration and disappointment in USC for parting ways with Baker-Mazara.
“When you the best player on the team, whatever you say, you right,” Arenas said in a video posted to X. “Give him the ball, get the (heck) out the way. That’s the offense. Damn. We supposed to be playing in the tournament, man. Now we gotta watch this junior varsity … team.”
USC is on the outside looking in when it comes to the NCAA Tournament, and its chances will drop even more if it loses to a struggling Washington team on Wednesday that has dealt with injuries all year. At least eight Huskies have been injured at some point this season.
“We haven’t played very well at home,” Musselman said. “We’re a better road team, which is unique. We’ve got another road game coming up, so we’ll see how we play, but we haven’t played very good down the stretch here at all.
“We gotta get ready for Washington. I don’t know what else to say.”
USC (18-11 overall, 7-11 Big Ten) at WASHINGTON (14-15, 6-12)
When: Wednesday, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Alaska Airlines Arena, Seattle
Letters: Naming sports arenas not a hospital’s job
I agree with and applaud James L. Smith for his letter that was printed on Feb.25. I can’t imagine that the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady consider sports venue naming rights to be part of their mission to provide for the health care needs of the people they serve. In my opinion, these funds would be better spent on medical services and health care personnel.
I am a fan of OLOL, but I don’t choose to access their services because their name is on a football field. I agree that the OLOL board of trustees should reconsider its decision to compete for the naming rights to sports venues.
A judge lets Chris Gabehart keep working at Spire, but bars his old JGR duties
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — A federal judge ruled Monday that former Joe Gibbs Racing competition director Chris Gabehart can continue to work for Spire Motorsports as long as it is not the same duties he performed with his old NASCAR team.
Gabehart is the chief motorsports officer at Spire, a job that encompasses most of parent company TWG Global’s racing properties. He made his first public appearance as a Spire employee over the weekend at the IndyCar race in St. Petersburg, Florida.
The ruling Monday follows an order from Susan C. Rodriguez, a U.S. District Court Judge for the Western District of North Carolina, for both sides to attempt to come to a resolution following Friday’s hearing on JGR’s motion for a restraining order to prevent Gabehart from working for Spire.
She set a March 16 date for a full hearing on a preliminary hearing.
Rodriguez also ordered Gabehart to return all data and material he had from JGR to the team owned by Joe Gibbs, who founded the NASCAR organization in 1992 after he won three Super Bowls as Washington’s football coach. Gibbs is a member of both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and NASCAR Hall of Fame and now co-owns JGR with his daughter-in-law, Heather. The team fields Cup cars for Christopher Bell, Chase Briscoe, Ty Gibbs and Denny Hamlin.
Gibbs and his daughter-in-law were not in court Monday for the 10-minute proceeding. They did attend last Friday’s hearing.
Gabehart can travel to this weekend’s race at Phoenix Raceway, where both NASCAR and IndyCar are competing. TWG Motorsports also owns Andretti Global of IndyCar.
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Joe Gibbs Faces $100,000 Blow From Federal Court as JGR Lawsuit Fails to Stop Chris Gabehart
“Other duties are fair game,” Judge Rodriguez said as she issued a sharply limited restraining order that stopped far short of what Joe Gibbs Racing hoped to achieve. In a brief 10-minute hearing of the JGR lawsuit, Judge Susan C. Rodriguez ruled that Chris Gabehart is prohibited only from performing tasks at Spire Motorsports that directly overlap with his former responsibilities as JGR’s competition director. Crucially, she refused to bar him from continuing his new job.
For JGR, this is a major setback. The team entered federal court seeking a sweeping Temporary Restraining Order that would effectively sideline Gabehart and freeze his involvement with Spire during litigation. Instead, the judge made it clear that the court did not see grounds to halt his employment as the JGR lawsuit continues. To reinforce that point, she placed a $100,000 bond on JGR, a financial guarantee required when a party obtains a restraining order that could harm the other side.
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From the perspective of Gabehart and Spire, the ruling changes nothing. They have consistently maintained that Gabehart’s role as Chief Motorsports Officer at Spire is fundamentally different from the day-to-day competition director position he held at JGR. The judge’s order aligns with that narrative. It allows Gabehart to continue performing “other duties” at Spire without interruption.
“I’m happy with the decision. We take trade secrets super serious and we’re not hypocrites about it,” Spire co-owner and CEO Jeff Dickerson said after the ruling.
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However, the ruling does require Gabehart to return all JGR data and information, a point the court emphasized as the litigation continues to unfold. Both sides will return to court on March 16, when the judge will address JGR’s request for expedited discovery and a broader preliminary injunction.
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For now, though, JGR walks away with little more than a symbolic restriction and a six-figure financial burden. On the other hand, Spire and Gabehart move forward largely unhindered. The final outcome still looks far away as the JGR lawsuit moves forward.
Motorsport Legend Boasts Historic Win After Smashing Richard Petty’s 45-YO Record
Richard Petty is the undeniable “King” of NASCAR. But, like Michael Schumacher once said, “Records are there to be beaten.” While no one on the current Cup Series field is anywhere close to beating Petty’s seven championships, there is a separate record of his that a driver has beaten by dominating at Daytona earlier. And he did it on only two wheels.
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Eli Tomac boasts his eighth Daytona win
Supercross legend Eli Tomac once again proved himself at Daytona, winning the event for the eighth time. This is the most times a driver has won a race on the track. Even Richard Petty’s record stood tall for four decades with seven wins, making Tomac’s record more iconic.
“Yeah, just count my blessings. To get eight here is it’s hard to believe. So count my blessings on that and this,” Tomac said. “He has seven. Well, it’s nice to beat him,” he said about breaking Petty’s record.
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Winning NASCAR’s Daytona 500 is considered to be a huge deal. Even someone like Petty, with unbelievable Cup records, only managed to win it seven times. But the challenge that stood ahead of Tomac was even more unique. Supercross is difficult. The drivers need perfect accuracy through the bumps on the dirt course, and even the smallest slip-up can end the race for good. Winning it for a whopping eight times sounds impossible, but Eli Tomac managed to achieve the feat.
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Daytona’s challenge isn’t confined to cars. The speedway has long influenced other riders in Supercross as well. Aaron Plessinger is one such name. One of the sport’s most charismatic figures is outspoken about his admiration for NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt. His fandom for the legend reflects NASCAR’s Daytona legacy.
For riders across the sport, it is more than just a track, and any record made or broken there stays for a long time. And even though Richard Petty’s long-standing record is now broken, he still is the King of NASCAR.
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Why Petty remains the King of NASCAR
Petty’s NASCAR legacy is defined by records and longevity that few have ever come close to. He holds the most career race wins with 200 victory lane visits throughout his career. The only driver that comes close is David Pearson, who won 105 Cup races.
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The huge margin just showcases how Petty dominated the sport, not for a short time, but for decades. There seemed to be no other driver who could take the spotlight away from him.
He also has quite a few other remarkable achievements to his name, with the fans calling his 1967 season ‘perfect’ owing to a whopping 27 race wins. In today’s numbers, it would be one race more than the regular season before the Chase begins. Understandably, his extreme dominance earned him the championships because of the whole-season point system that was followed back in the day.
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But even without it, it is argued that Petty would still have been a dominant force on the field if the playoff system existed back in the day. Hence, even though one of his longest-standing records is now shattered, Richard Petty continues to be the King of NASCAR.
Federal judge will allow Chris Gabehart to stay at Spire Motorsports
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A federal judge ruled Monday that former Joe Gibbs Racing competition director Chris Gabehart can continue to work for Spire Motorsports but not the role he performed with his old NASCAR team.
Gabehart is the chief motorsports officer at Spire, a job that encompasses most of parent company TWG Global’s racing properties. He made his first public appearance as a Spire employee over the weekend at the IndyCar event in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Gabehart can travel to this weekend’s race at Phoenix Raceway, where both NASCAR and IndyCar are competing. TWG Motorsports also owns Andretti Global of IndyCar.
The ruling Monday from U.S. District Judge Susan C. Rodriguez in the Western District of North Carolina followed her order that both sides attempt to find a resolution following Friday’s hearing on JGR’s motion for a restraining order to prevent Gabehart from working for Spire.
She set a March 16 date for a full hearing regarding Gabehart’s employment.
Another complaint from JGR that Gabehart stole data from the team to give to Spire has not yet been addressed. JGR has claimed Gabehart caused more than $8 million in damages by copying files and setups from the team, and Spire has been named as a defendant.
Rodriguez on Monday ordered Gabehart to return all data and material he has from JGR to the team owned by Joe Gibbs, who founded the NASCAR organization in 1992 after he won three Super Bowls as Washington’s football coach.
Gibbs is a member of both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and NASCAR Hall of Fame and now co-owns JGR with his daughter-in-law, Heather. The team fields Cup cars for Christopher Bell, Chase Briscoe, Ty Gibbs and Denny Hamlin.
“Spire takes trade secrets very seriously, and we’re a lot of things, but we’re not hypocrites,” Spire co-owner Jeff Dickerson said. “We don’t want anybody else’s stuff, other than Hendrick, obviously. We’re happy. The facts are the facts and I don’t have any ill will toward JGR.
“I think we got thrown in because that’s where it landed. I’m happy with the decision and we take trade secrets super seriously.”
Spire already has an alliance with Hendrick Motorsports, a deal that gives the team access to the Hendrick data. Hendrick is the winningest team in NASCAR history. Spire fields Cup cars for Carson Hocevar, Michael McDowell and Daniel Suarez, as well as a Truck Series team. JGR does not have a Truck Series team.
Gibbs and his daughter-in-law were not in court Monday for the 10-minute proceeding. They did attend last Friday’s hearing.
“We are pleased with today’s ruling by the United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina for a temporary restraining order enforcing the terms of our contract with Chris Gabehart,” JGR said in a statement. “We will continue the legal process to protect our information and fight for what is right for our race team, our employees, and our partners.”
Gabehart joined JGR in 2012 as an engineer, worked his way to crew chief for Hamlin and became competition director ahead of the 2025 season. Gabehart spent six seasons as Hamlin’s crew chief and the duo won 22 Cup races — two of which were the Daytona 500 — and qualified for the championship finale three times.
Hamlin finished fifth or better in six seasons under Gabehart, while Hamlin’s wins and laps-led were second-best in the Cup Series during that period.
Gabehart admitted to the court he did take photographs on his phone of a JGR Excel file and other projects that he had played a role in developing. But Gabehart insisted a forensic audit proved the information was never shared with any other organization.
He says his 13-year tenure at JGR began to unravel when he was pressured last season to crew chief Ty Gibbs, the grandson of the team owner, despite having been promoted to competition director at the end of 2024.
“I notified JGR that the job was not, at all, as advertised. I was promised a COO-type role overseeing all competitive operations with autonomy to lead,” Gabehart told the court. “Instead, I found myself constantly intertwined with Coach Gibbs, senior JGR executives and family members when making even routine competition decisions — a dysfunctional organizational structure that I could not continue in.”
Gabehart said from the IndyCar race on Saturday that the dispute is not about him being pressured to crew chief Ty Gibbs, who Gabehart said was not held to the same standard as the other drivers. He said he feels bad about the publicity his dispute has caused for NASCAR and the Gibbs family, who employed him for 13 seasons.
“Deep down, I believe Ty is a really good person who has been delt a really tough hand the last three years, him and his family,” Gabehart said, “and I feel really bad about that.”
Spire Motorsports putting together impressive start to 2026 NASCAR season
After the first three races of the 2026 NASCAR Series season, only one organization has three cars inside the top-10 in the Cup Series points standings.
That distinction goes to Spire Motorsports, which has Daniel Suarez (seventh), Michael McDowell (ninth) and Carson Hocevar (10th) all inside the provisional Chase field through three weeks.
Given that Spire is yet to put a car into the NASCAR postseason, the great start to 2026 has been a welcome one.
Of course, the early schedule of Daytona, Atlanta and Circuit of the Americas is not completely indicative of how the rest of the regular season will shake out. But there has been plenty of speed under the hood of Spire’s three Chevrolets thus far, and its three drivers have executed well enough to be in the Chase conversation.
Carson Hocevar bringing the excitement to Spire
Hocevar may not be the highest driver in the standings among the Spire trio, but he has been the fastest so far. He nearly won the exhibition Clash at Bowman Gray before a late crash and led the Daytona 500 and Atlanta at the white flag before finishing 18th and fourth, respectively.
A last-lap crash at COTA on Sunday relegated him to a 31st-place finish, but Hocevar will likely have the most speed of his teammates on most traditional ovals this season. Phoenix on March 8 will be the first test of what the No. 77 team is made of.
In his first year with Spire, Suarez has exceeded expectations early on. What makes his fast start more important is the fact that Suarez is operating on a one-year,
Cadillac F1 debuts as American team in Formula 1 with TWG Motorsports
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Andretti family dream to enter an American team in Formula 1 will finally reach the starting grid when the season begins this weekend with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne.
Everything about the team will look different than what Michael Andretti had envisioned. In fact, he’s not even part of the project that after nearly five years has at last come to life.
Instead, Cadillac F1 is now the property of TWG Motorsports — led by Mark Walter and Dan Towriss — and General Motors. Walter’s group is all-in on sports properties; he is the controlling owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, a major stakeholder in the Los Angeles Lakers, and owns the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks, a stake in Chelsea F.C., the Professional Women’s Hockey League and the Billie Jean King Cup.
Towriss has Andretti Global in IndyCar, Spire Motorsports in NASCAR, Wayne Taylor Racing in IMSA, as well as his day job as founder and CEO of financial services company Group 1001.
Along with General Motors, this group has taken a long-winding project to get to the starting grid Sunday in Australia extremely serious.
When F1 initially denied the application, they pressed on and continued working on a car and engine even without approval to join the globetrotting series considered the most popular form of motorsports in the world. “Work continues at pace,” they all said as they worked behind the scenes to gain approval.
It was stamped official exactly one year from Sunday’s season-opening race.
The team has hired Sergio “Checo” Perez of Mexico and Valtteri Bottas as the veteran drivers to build the program. It doesn’t hurt that both are extremely popular — Perez is a national hero in Mexico — and General Motors happens to sell many, many cars in that country.
“We ran into a lot of obstacles, a lot of voices telling us not just ‘no,’ but ‘never,’” said Towriss about the team’s fight to the grid. “Formula 1 is innovation on the biggest stage possible, and the U.S. didn’t really have a seat at that table. To now come in with General Motors and the Cadillac brand, that’s something we’re tremendously proud of.”
What to expect?
As the first new team on the grid in a decade — Haas, also an American team, entered F1 in 2016 — many expect Cadillac to be the worst in the series for now. Its engine isn’t ready and Cadillac will lease from Ferrari for the first two seasons.
Its first car will be called MAC-26, short for Mario Andretti Cadillac, in honor of 1978 champion Mario Andretti. He was the most recent American F1 champion and his son championed the initial bid. But when Michael Andretti couldn’t crack into the F1 club, he turned the project over to Walter and Towriss in order to see it succeed.
It cost them a $200 million anti-dilution fee to compensate existing competitors for the impact on prize money to even join the club.
The team had its initial shakedown at Silverstone in January, then participated in F1’s official preseason testing in Barcelona and Bahrain. The General Motors power unit facility is located near the technical center on Hendrick Motorsports’ campus outside Charlotte, while primary headquarters are in a facility near Silverstone and many operations run from Fishers, Indiana.
And if former IndyCar driver Colton Herta has a successul season racing in F2, he could soon be the first American driver in F1 since Logan Sargeant flamed out in 2023.
Cadillac is already billing itself as America’s team despite the decade-long existence of Haas, which has never tapped into seizing the North American market.
“The historic debut of the Cadillac Formula 1 team in Australia is the realization of a vision that has driven so many of us at General Motors, and a moment of tremendous pride for everyone who has worked tirelessly to make it happen,’’ said General Motors President Mark Reuss. “To bring Cadillac back to the tier one set of global luxury brands, F1 is a vital part of the equation. Helping bring this program to life has been incredibly rewarding for me and for the whole team.”
Cadillac is fierce in its desire to be the American representation — the team debuted its 2026 livery during the Super Bowl — and getting Herta into a seat would complete the claim as the team racing under the red, white and blue banner.
“There’s definitely a national pride element to Cadillac,” said Towriss. “It feels like the right place at the right time, where Formula 1 is globally, where Cadillac is as a brand, and where the U.S. is on the world sporting stage.”
Cadillac is cool
Branding is a massive part of Cadillac’s identity and many of its ideas come from Towriss’ wife, Cassidy. She has clear ideas on how the team should look, from its suites, to its merchandise, livery, marketing and branding.
Her work with the team is real, her input valued, and she’s expected to be a part of the next season of the Netflix docudrama “Drive to Survive.”
“She’s a very studied motorsports fan. We can have marketing people come up with an idea and she’ll say, ‘Don’t do that. Benetton did that and you’ll look like idiots,’” Towriss said. “She’s also the demographic — 31-year-old female. She brings a perspective that is super valuable.”
Asked what the personality of the Cadillac is while seated in a carefully designed and decorated suite, Towriss described the American dream with a touch of edginess.
“It’s gritty and it’s bold. We didn’t come into Formula 1 to look like every other team, to copy what McLaren is doing or what Mercedes is doing,” Towriss said. “It’s a group of people, and this is going to sound cliche, but we started with big dreams, we ran into a lot of obstacles, and it was just a cacophony of no’s.
“Our ambitions are so high and we’re not even focused on other people. It wasn’t just to get there, that wasn’t the desitnation. It’s really just the beginning. We’ve come at this incredibly complex, competitive time, and we’re jumping in from a standing start. We started from nothing. We didn’t buy from an existing team. So it’s a pretty daunting challenge.”
What if Cadillac is intitially terrible?
Most new teams take a decade or more to find success, some never do and others don’t even make it 10 years.
Cadillac, Towriss said, wants to win.
“If I am leading a team, that’s the tone I want to set,” he said. “If you just want to have a job with a race team, go do that someplace else. Come here because you want to build something special. Be part of it because you want to win.”
Towriss is careful not to sound arrogant or delusional but he really does not want anyone within the Cadillac program to settle for being a struggling upstart.
“In private, we’re gonna push. We’ve been very careful to not put things out that set unreasonable expectations,” Towriss said. “There’s risk in everything. You have to be willing to say, ‘This is what I want to do,’ and then go try to achieve it. We’ll be very cautious and careful what we say, but at the same time, it doesn’t mean that there’s not this insane drive, this insane push how to be fast, to go fast, how quickly can we start competing with people? Right now we are ready to go find out.”
___
Joe Gibbs Racing Gets Limited Order in Gabehart Case
Joe Gibbs Racing secured a limited temporary restraining order in its lawsuit against Chris Gabehart and Spire Motorsports. The hearing took place in the Western District of North Carolina before Judge Susan C. Rodriguez. The ruling allows Gabehart to remain Chief Motorsports Officer at Spire Motorsports but limits his responsibilities.
Joe Gibbs Racing alleges Chris Gabehart and Spire Motorsports conspired to take trade secrets after his departure. The team is seeking damages. According to Matt Weaver of Motorsport.com, Judge Rodriguez described parts of the claims as “speculative at best” at this stage. The case remains active and will continue later this month.
Judge Susan C. Rodriguez Bars Overlapping Duties
Judge Susan C. Rodriguez ruled that Chris Gabehart may continue working at Spire Motorsports but cannot perform duties that overlap with his former role at Joe Gibbs Racing.
Gabehart previously served as competition director at Joe Gibbs Racing. In that position, he oversaw race strategy and engineering leadership across the organization. The judge said he cannot engage in similar competitive or engineering functions at Spire Motorsports while the case proceeds.
According to Motorsport.com, the judge stated, “Other duties are fair game.”
The order permits Gabehart to oversee broader business operations at Spire Motorsports. He may also work within TWG Motorsports properties, including its Truck Series, Late Model, and Sprint Car teams. The ruling also allows involvement with the Andretti Autosport IndyCar program.
Judge Rodriguez also ordered Gabehart to return any proprietary Joe Gibbs Racing information. According to Motorsport.com, Gabehart said he already returned all materials. Spire Motorsports has stated it never received confidential information.
Joe Gibbs Racing Seeks Discovery in Trade Secrets Case
After the hearing, Joe Gibbs Racing released a statement.
“We are pleased with today’s ruling by the United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina for a temporary restraining order enforcing the terms of our contract with Chris Gabehart. We will continue the legal process to protect our information and fight for what is right for our race team, our employees, and our partners.”
According to Matt Weaver, Joe Gibbs Racing filed a motion Sunday seeking expedited discovery. The team is requesting communications and documents it believes could show a coordinated effort to obtain trade secrets.
Judge Susan C. Rodriguez declined to issue a full restraining order. Such an order would have required Gabehart to resign from Spire Motorsports. She said the broader allegations currently presented would be “speculative at best,” according to the report.
The court ordered Joe Gibbs Racing to post a $100,000 bond. The bond protects Gabehart if the restraining order is later found to be unwarranted.
March 16 Hearing Set as NASCAR Season Continues
Both parties are scheduled to return to court on March 16. The court will address the discovery motion and hear arguments regarding a preliminary injunction. That ruling could expand or narrow the current restrictions.
According to Motorsport.com, Gabehart joined Spire Motorsports on February 17. Leaving the courthouse, he said he has not performed duties that overlap with his previous role at Joe Gibbs Racing. Spire co-owner Jeff Dickerson echoed that statement.
Neither Joe Gibbs nor members of the Gibbs family attended the hearing.
The case will move forward as the NASCAR season continues, with further legal decisions expected later this month.
A long-shot American dream hits the F1 grid as Cadillac debuts at the Australian GP
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Andretti family dream to enter an American team in Formula 1 will finally reach the starting grid when the season begins this weekend with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne.
Everything about the team will look different than what Michael Andretti had envisioned. In fact, he’s not even part of the project that after nearly five years has at last come to life.
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Former NASCAR driver dead at 42: ‘Fixture in motorsports’
Chase Pistone has died at the age of 42.
Nick Pistone, Pistone’s older brother, shared the news on social media on Monday.
“Well my young brother and best friend is gone,” Nick posted on Facebook. “I’m broken hearted and don’t know if I’ll ever get over this. I miss you Chase already and I hope you are in a better place. I love you and I miss you so much already!!!!!!!”
While the cause of death was not mentioned, but Pistone’s family told Legends Nation to “post the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which is 988 on a phone or text.”
“Chase was not only a wheelman in Legends and Late Models, but his Chase Pistone Inc. Legends team was a force to be reckoned with every time they showed up at a track, and they usually walked away with the winner’s trophy,” Legends Nation posted.
During his career, Chase Pistone, who is the grandson of two-time NASCAR Cup Series race winner Tom “Tiger” Pistone, competed in the ARCA Menards Series, NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, and NASCAR Xfinity (now NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts) Series.
He won the Summer Shootout Championship Legends four times as a driver (two Semi-Pro, two Pro) between 1999 and 2005 and had more than 80 feature event wins in Legends, Late Model and USAR competition.
“They Would’ve Fired Us”- Former RCR VP Reveals ‘Illegal’ Hendrick Motorsports Alliance Owners Never Knew About
“Being able to go up against one of the all-time greats,” Jeff Gordon said in 2019, “changed my life forever.” These comments were about a 60-minute documentary exploring the intense rivalry between Gordon and Dale Earnhardt Sr. Their on-track competition was the stuff of dreams for NASCAR fans in the 1990s. But while the opposing racers from Hendrick Motorsports and Richard Childress Racing locked horns on track, their crew chiefs were up to a different agenda.
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A secret alliance that boosted Hendrick Motorsports
“They would have fired us on the spot,” Andy Petree, former Vice President of RCR, told Sirius XM NASCAR. “But it helped us both. Back then, they didn’t realise the benefit of having that kind of teamwork that we gained from it. The rivalry was still real – we were trying to beat each other on strategy on the track. But when it came to the cars and the setup, we were like an open book with each other.”
This mysterious alliance was between Andy Petree and none other than Ray Evernham, a former legendary crew chief at Hendrick Motorsports. Evernham worked with Jeff Gordon, while Petree worked with Dale Earnhardt Sr. The No. 3 RCR Chevrolet and the No. 24 HMS Chevy were neck-deep in competition for over 8 seasons, finishing in 1-2 positions 7 times. But as Petree said, this rivalry thrived because he shared notes in the background.
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“We were almost like teammates,” Petree continued. “We actually debriefed with each other at every race, in ’93, ’94, ’95. So every race, when I would do the post setup on the car, I would have Ray with me. He would have his stuff, I’d have mine, and we would talk about it, and we were very open.” He added, “We even had our own radio channel that I could flip over to. And we could talk to each other in a separate channel during the race.”
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Ray Evernham had previously revealed this radio channel to Dale Earnhardt Jr. In February 2024, the Hendrick Motorsports icon confessed on a Dale Jr Download episode. Evernham even admitted to building the shocks for the No. 3 car for an October 1994 race in Charlotte.
“I felt like we learned so much from each other that that’s what accelerated both of our careers,” Andy Petree said. “He’s using me because of the experience side of it. He was kind of new to Cup. I’m using him because of all the things he’s bringing, all the innovation, all the new thinking, all the things he was opening up.”
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The results were, as we know, brilliant. RCR secured the championships in 1993 and 1994, while Hendrick Motorsports won the title in 1995. That was the beginning of Rick Hendrick‘s championship streak in the NASCAR Cup Series.
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Rick Hendrick, thankfully, could not punish the secretly aligned crew chiefs. Now, he is addressing a new driver’s antics.
A candid discussion with the youngster
The 1990s were a golden era for Hendrick Motorsports. Standing in 2026, the team boasts big talents now as well. However, Rick Hendrick’s latest recruit brewed a storm over his on-track aggression. Corey Day, wheeling the No. 17 in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, had multiple run-ins with rivals like Ryan Seig, Carson Kvapil, and Connor Zilisch. And as NASCAR drivers questioned the 20-year-old’s antics, a proper discussion followed.
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Dale Earnhardt Jr., team owner of Connor Zilisch, admitted that JR Motorsports and HMS sat down with Corey Day.
“We all got together, and we all sat down. Rick [Hendrick] had a conversation with Corey, and we’re all trying to help him understand, ‘Look, man, we want you here. We believe in you, we believe you’re a winner. We want to see you succeed. But we have to do this without being detrimental to each other,” Dale Jr. said.
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“What Corey’s doing is nothing new. We’ve had teammate issues in the past; we will have them in the future. When you bring all of these young kids into the same building, they’re all on different paths, they are all eager to get that next opportunity.”
Clearly, Rick Hendrick is continuing his pursuit of excellence while straightening out the wrinkles. His former crew chief’s past alliance, however, may have laid the foundation for Hendrick Motorsports.
New UFL owner Mike Repole all in on St. Louis, Battlehawks
Lynn Worthy | Post-Dispatch
Sports columnist
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Lynn Worthy | Post-Dispatch
Sports columnist
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When, Where to Take in Loaded Arkansas Razorbacks Schedule Saturday
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — It’s not often there’s cause for extended excitement on a February afternoon in Northwest Arkansas, but Razorbacks fans have plenty of reason to bump into one another while looking for parking across the various corners of the university campus Saturday.
Basketball, baseball and softball are all taking place at roughly the same time with baseball getting things started against Xavier at 1 p.m., followed by softball against Northwestern at 1:30 p.m. and then capped off by John Calipari’s basketball team trying to bounce back from a dramatic loss suffered in double-overtime against Alabama in Tuscaloosa earlier this week at 3 p.m.
Arkansas vs. Missouri, Bud Walton Arena
ESPN, 3 p.m.
At least part of the crowd may arrive late for the tip-off as at least a few hundred Hogs fans wander their way up the hill from a relatively warm softball game. That’s because a slight wind probably isn’t going to be enough to keep the Arkansas faithful from checking in on a No. 8 softball team that has outscored its last five opponents 44-1 behind big bats and elite national level pitching.
However, once they do, considering they will have been able to warm up both their voices and their legs, the Arkansas crowd should be ready to go early against semi-rival Missouri with an important game that has almost always delivered in terms of intensity.
Calipari’s team will certainly need a hot crowd behind it to account for how short-handed the Razorbacks will be once again. Word came down earlier this week that forward Karter Knox is out indefinitely as the result of a knee surgery to repair a meniscus.
To make matters worse, back-up forward Isaiah Sealy is projected as doubtful for Saturday’s game, making him one of at least two in-state products who will miss the game. Little Rock’s Annor Boateng will also watch from the bench as part of a pair of Missouri Tigers who will miss.
The real question is whether freshman star Darius Acuff truly is up to full speed. He spent a few days in a walking boot before playing all 50 minutes that required every drop of effort and physical health he had available.
Even if he hasn’t aggravated his leg injury, there’s still concern whether Acuff and Trevon Brazile, who also logged just shy of 50 minutes, will battle fatigue after just having a couple of days to recover. Missouri is clinging onto hope that it can improve its bubble status in the final few weeks of the season with a major Quad 1 win over the Razorbacks.
As for Arkansas, the Hogs are desperate to stay in the hunt for the SEC regular season championship, although hopes are fading quickly. The main concern is simply giving good reason for there to continue to be a full house at Bud Walton while not allowing the Crimson Tide to theoretically beat the Razorbacks for a second time in a single week.
Arkansas vs. Xavier, Baum-Walker Stadium
SEC Network+, 1 p.m.
It’s the first Saturday for families to head across MLK to the baseball stadium to try to get a feel for what kind of team Arkansas head coach Dave Van Horn has put together this season.
So far, the best way to describe the Hogs is scrappy regardless of how good the opponent is expected to be. Whether it be a 5-4 loss to No. 7 TCU, a 6-5 win over Texas Tech in 11 innings, 3-1 over tiny Tarleton State or holding off winter weather birds Xavier 5-2 Friday night, there’s just not been a lot of breathing room for the Razorbacks this year.
Right at 10,400 fans showed up for the opener, setting a school record despite a cold front that moved in and the game starting in the middle of the work day.
Gabe Gaeckle and Cole Gibler combined to pitch a complete game while Camden Kozeal and Josh Stonehouse continued to pound the ball by each hitting their third home runs of the season.
Hunter Dietz is expected to take the mound Saturday afternoon. He looks to shake off a tough outing against TCU in which he gave up four earned run in just two innings of work.
Arkansas vs. Northwestern, Bogle Park
No Television, 1:30 p.m.
Arkansas is currently 10-1 and looking to begin bagging up a sweep of the Razorbacks Invitational. A win Saturday afternoon would give Courtney Deifel’s team a series lock against Northwestern with a third game still to be played against the Wildcats Sunday afternoon.
It would also set up an afternoon showdown with Southeast Missouri State at 4 p.m. If the Razorbacks can hold on, that would set the stage for a series sweep over both Sunday afternoon.
While neither game is being televised Saturday, both will air on SEC Network+ Sunday morning and afternoon beginning at 10 a.m.
Hogs Feed:
John Terry Named Anfield as the Best Stadium Atmosphere He Ever Played in
John Terry racked up 759 appearances at club level during his career, along with another 78 caps for England. With five Premier League titles and a Champions League triumph to his name, it’s no surprise that the former Chelsea and Three Lions captain experienced his fair share of daunting stadium atmospheres along the way.
Spending 19 years at Chelsea, Terry grew into the most decorated captain in the club’s history. He also became their highest-scoring defender of all time and one of only six players to wear the blue shirt more than 500 times — cementing his status as a true Stamford Bridge icon.
John Terry Named Anfield as The ‘Best Atmosphere’ He Played in
Terry has play at some incredible stadiums, new and old. ‘The Bridge’, is one of those, but more will have seen Terry grace the turf in their time.
He faced some of Europe’s most iconic venues during his career, including Barcelona’s Camp Nou, Bayern Munich’s Olympiastadion and Atletico Madrid’s Vicente Calderón among others. Yet it was on the domestic stage where he found the atmosphere that left the biggest impression, naming Anfield as the most intimidating ground he ever played in — and the one he remembers above all others.
Terry played at Anfield in five straight Champions League seasons between 2004/05 and 2008/09, largely under José Mourinho. Across those trips, Chelsea lost twice, drew twice and won once. His Premier League record there was also respectable, with five wins, two draws and three defeats at Liverpool’s home. Even with that solid return, Terry never hid his admiration for the stadium’s intensity.
John Terry: I have Never Heard Anything Like it
“I have never heard anything like it before and I don’t think I ever will again. It is the best atmosphere I’ve ever played in.
“I walked out into that cauldron and heard that singing and saw that passion. The hairs on my arms were standing up. To see a spectacle like that is inspiring to anyone.
“I just kept looking around, trying to take it all in. I wasn’t daunted by it, but it was amazing. I wish more crowds were like that.
“Apart from the volume, it looked spectacular, too. In the seconds before the referee blew his whistle for the start of the match, the whole stadium let out this great long roar as if they were going to power Liverpool to victory.”
It’s not an outlandish choice by the former Engalnd captain. Anfield really is one of football’s best grounds. Other clubs in the Premier League, including cross-city rivals Everton, Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester City have all moved to new grounds.
But Liverpool have only continued to expand Anfield, and there has never really been any notion that they will move on, especially having only recently expanded their Anfield Road stand. It’s a relic that will continue to build and develop whilst sitting in an incredible atmosphere, whilst also keeping the grandeur of the players and teams that have graced the famous turf in the past – including Terry.
Sin tax hike for stadiums? Most people we heard from say no: The Readers Write
More than 450 readers responded after I asked whether they would vote to quadruple Cuyahoga County’s sin tax on cigarettes and alcohol to help cover maintenance costs at Progressive Field, Rocket Arena and eventually the new football stadium.
The volume of responses was striking. So was the intensity.
Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb has proposed creating a taxing district around the Gateway complex so that those who attend games and spend money nearby would shoulder the burden. The teams would contribute under that plan, though they have declined to sign off. As a fallback, Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne has suggested quadrupling the sin tax — a move that would require voter approval. Without either, maintenance costs would fall to the general fund.
Readers clearly are fed up with being asked to pay for these facilities. They are weary of the debate. They resent that public money subsidizes billionaire team owners. But the responses also show divisions over fairness, public health, regionalism and Cleveland’s future.
Here’s a breakdown of the responses.
“Let the billionaires pay”
The dominant theme was frustration — even outrage — that taxpayers are repeatedly asked to shoulder costs associated with professional sports teams.
“I would not support any increase in taxes to support the billionaires who own these teams. I don’t like the taxing district around the facilities, but that’s better than penalizing everyone in Cuyahoga County.”
Many readers questioned why owners refuse to contribute more.
“I think it is pitiful that the sports teams, whose owners are BILLIONAIRES, won’t pony up money to support the teams that keep them rolling in dough. Pathetic! All taxpayers should NOT have to continue to subsidize these greedy owners. If they won’t pay and support their own team, why should we all be stuck paying their maintenance and upkeep? Typical: keep the poor and middle class in their place and make them pay, even if they don’t have the money, or the inclination, to do so.”
Another reader wrote:
“No!!! The teams and those that attend the games should bear all the costs. I feel strongly that taxpayers should not be supplementing the teams, who make millions. Why should taxpayers give the billionaires that own the teams money? Yes I feel very strongly about this. If they refuse to pay, let them leave. I just do not see the economics on supplementing sports teams and their owners.”
.
User fees over sin taxes
A second major theme: if money must be raised, it should come from those who attend games, not from smokers and drinkers across the county.
“Let those who attend sports events pay for their venues either through sales tax or increasing the price of admission. Are there any other leisure activities we ask everyone to pay for? Those of us who attend concerts pay our share through ticket prices. Rock climbing, gym memberships, same. I’ve never understood why football, baseball, and basketball are somehow communal responsibilities.”
One reader laid out a business-minded approach:
“I can’t help but feel that who should pay for the maintenance of the stadium would come from the lease payments, a tax on the tickets, consider taking something from the vendors and even the parking lots and restaurants in the area. Forget having to pass sin taxes, or the methods that would tax us all. Get the money from the users of the property not the folks that just drive by wishing they could afford to go to events. It just seems like common business sense to me!!!”
A $5 ticket surcharge idea surfaced repeatedly. Others suggested concession taxes, merchandise fees or sports-betting taxes.
Regressive and unfair
Many objected specifically to the sin tax as regressive — a tax that falls hardest on lower-income residents.
“Absolutely not! It is a tax on mostly low income Clevelanders, many of whom cannot afford to attend sports events. It’s wildly inequitable.”
A smoker offered a pointed critique, referring to a cigarette tax that pays for the arts in Cuyahoga County as well as the stadium issue:
“Hell no. I’m a smoker. Every time I see an Arts & Culture credit that claims funding is supported by “the people of Cuyahoga County” I want to scream “No, that’s a lie! It’s ONLY paid for by smokers!” We don’t mind not smoking inside A&C-sponsored events or institutions, but in most cases we can’t even smoke outside them. So you take my money, then ban me from the things I’ve paid for. As I’ve said to Chris Ronayne many many times, the least they could do is be honest and say “Cuyahoga Arts & Culture is funded by the cigarette smokers of Cuyahoga County.”
Others warned that tobacco and alcohol consumption are declining, making the tax unstable long-term.
“It seems foolish to continue pursuing increases in the “sin tax”. As fewer and fewer people indulge in the “sins” taxed, it cannot provide the funds needed.”
Public health and pragmatism
A smaller group supported the increase, arguing that higher taxes could reduce harmful behaviors.
“We’ve known for decades cigarettes kill people. New evidence is proving alcohol does too. Both are nuisance vices that have negative externalities like second hand smoke and drunk driving. And they are also stubbornly hard for people to abandon for reasons of both culture and addiction… I have ZERO sympathy for the people who buy this stuff regularly paying a little more, especially since there’s significant overlap between those people and fans of all these teams. Put the tax on the ballot. I’ll vote yes. My partner says she would too.”
Another reader framed it more simply:
“Yes. Increasing taxes on cigarettes decreases the rate of smoking in teens.”
Some supporters acknowledged their position was easier because they do not smoke or drink.
Go regional
Many readers argued the burden should extend beyond Cuyahoga County, since fans come from across Northeast Ohio.
“I support it and also think it should be expanded to surrounding counties as many of the folks who attend games do not live in Cuyahoga – myself included.”
One reader wrote:
“7 county regional tax is the right solution as all residents in those counties benefit from the 3 teams. All should share the costs. Pretty simple, right?”
Others asked why Lake, Lorain, Geauga and Summit residents — who attend games and identify as Browns, Cavs and Guardians fans — should get to use the facilities without contributing to them.
The Browns complication
The potential new football stadium in Brook Park loomed large in the responses. The covered stadium that the Browns plan to build there would not get sin taxes for repairs for some years, as it would be a new stadium that doesn’t need extra money for maintenance yet. But the move to Brook Park has been controversial. Several people said their vote would depend on whether the Browns get any money.
“Not if it pays for the Brook Park Billionaire Bowl.”
“If the sin tax goes to Browns, NO.”
Weariness with the debate
Perhaps most telling was the fatigue.
“No. I have honestly voted for that several times in the past. But it is getting so old that these teams aren’t agreeing to help pay some of these costs. And we continue to go back to the sin tax over and over again. There needs to be a more sustainable option.”
That sentiment — exhaustion with repeated stadium funding fights — ran through the responses.
Bills fans can’t get enough of Highmark Stadium collectibles
Want to bring home a memento from the current Buffalo Bills stadium before it’s torn down? You’ll soon get your chance, but be prepared to really open your wallet.
The Erie County Sheriff’s Office says police will be on alert at Sunday’s final regular-season game at Highmark Stadium for Buffalo Bills fans trying to snag an illegal souvenir.
Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | SoundStack | All Of Our Podcasts
Sure, Buffalo Bills fans can buy seats, pieces of the turf and goal post sections from the old Highmark Stadium. But the keepsake getting the most attention is the urinal troughs.
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Teenager Samra swaps snowy Canada for Mumbai heat with IPL dream
Bengaluru, Feb 25 (Reuters) – Yuvraj Samra honed his batting skills in indoor stadiums back home in snowy Canada and the gifted teenager is now ready to test himself in the heat of Mumbai as he chases an Indian Premier League deal after an impressive Twenty20 World Cup.
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While his World Cup adventure ended after Canada’s exit, Samra is eager to get used to Indian conditions and has shifted base to Mumbai to train under India international Yashasvi Jaiswal’s childhood coach Jwala Singh.
Konnor Griffin was featured on ‘You Got Mossed’
Konnor Griffin is only 19 years old and already turning heads as MLB’s top prospect, flexing his muscle by launching spring dingers out of stadiums. But the Pirates phenom is no stranger to jaw-dropping feats of athleticism. In fact, he’s been doing so since the ninth grade (that’s only something like five years ago for him, of course).
Griffin is a multi-sport athlete who excelled in football as well, and there’s video proof of perhaps his peak moment on the gridiron. As a middle school wide receiver, he was featured on the popular ESPN segment
Iron Maiden Sets ‘Run For Your Lives’ Tour of Australia
Iron Maiden will bring their brand of heavy metal thunder down under later this year.
The British heavy metal legends today (Feb. 27) announce the Australia dates of their Run For Your Lives World Tour, where they’ll play stadiums for the first time in both Melbourne and Sydney, and arenas in Adelaide and Brisbane.
Megadeth are special guests on the four-date run, which will get underway Nov. 11 at Adelaide Entertainment Centre, before hitting Melbourne’s AAMI Park (Nov. 13), Sydney’s Allianz Stadium (Nov. 15), and wrapping up Nov. 18 at Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
The Australia visit will mark Iron Maiden’s eighth, dating back to November 1982. Australians can’t get enough of them; Iron Maiden was here fewer than two years ago, in September 2024.
“This will be Iron Maiden’s biggest tour of Australia ever,” explains TEG Dainty president Paul Dainty, producer of the forthcoming run. “Headlining stadiums in Melbourne and Sydney for the first time in their 50-year history is a massive moment. And with Megadeth joining the tour, this is going to be an absolute powerhouse night of metal — two giants of the genre, one colossal production, and a show Australian fans won’t know what hit them.”
Iron Maiden has had a solid week. On Wednesday, the band’s name was called out for nomination into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame. And earlier, on Tuesday, Universal Pictures International (UPI) unveiled Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition, a feature film that’s said to trace the rockers’ “remarkable five‑decade journey” with “unprecedented access” to the rockers’ official archives.
Formed in East London in 1975, Iron Maiden are titans of the heavy genre, with 17 studio albums, over 100 million records sold, and more than 2,500 performances across 64 countries. In September 2021, Iron Maiden earned its highest charting album ever on the Billboard 200 as Senjutsu debuted at No. 3.
General public tickets for the Australia shows go on sale Friday, March 6.
Run For Your Lives Australia Dates
Nov. 11 — Adelaide Entertainment Centre
Nov. 13 — AAMI Park, Melbourne
Nov. 15 — Allianz Stadium, Sydney
Nov. 18 — Brisbane Entertainment Centre
The Case for Expanding Great American Ballpark’s Outfield
Since its opening in 2003, Great American Ballpark has been considered one of the most hitter friendly stadiums in the majors.
Although the park’s dimensions are very similar to the Reds’ former home, Riverfront Stadium, it still plays differently in practice. It is a hitter’s paradise, but a pitcher’s nightmare.
Part of what makes Great American so unique is its home run rate. Over the years, the ballpark has consistently ranked near the top of Major League Baseball in home runs allowed, especially down the left- and right-field lines.
In fact, from 2020-2024, it led the league with 1,031 home runs allowed. The next closest was Yankee Stadium at 981.
However, some of the best insight into this quirky ballpark comes from players who spent years in Cincinnati, and few know it better than Joey Votto.
In an interview with Jim Day on the Jim Day Podcast, Votto said that he’d
2026 World Cup schedule: Dates, times, stadiums all confirmed – Full details
The full schedule for the 2026 World Cup has been confirmed, with the kick off times, dates and venues for all 104 games now confirmed.
There are 100 days to go until the World Cup kicks off, and you can watch every single game live on Universo, Telemundo and Peacock en Espanol. Check out the latest on the superstars and how they’re shaping up ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
We now know where you can watch each team play across the USA, Canada and Mexico next summer and you can start making your plans.
MORE — World Cup base camps for every team | 2026 World Cup hub | 2026 World Cup venues
This is what it is all about, as we’ve been waiting years for the schedule for this 48-team tournament to be revealed.
Below are all the details you need.
2026 World Cup schedule, dates, times, stadiums, full details
Group A schedule
June 11: Mexico vs South Africa – Estadio Azteca, Mexico City – 3pm ET
June 11: South Korea vs UEFA playoff D – Estadio Akron, Guadalajara – 10pm
June 18: UEFA playoff D vs South Africa – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 12pm ET
June 18: Mexico vs South Korea – Estadio Akron, Guadalajara – 9pm ET
June 24: UEFA playoff D vs Mexico – Estadio Azteca, Mexico City – 9pm ET
June 24: South Africa vs South Korea – Estadio BBVA, Monterrey – 9pm ET
Group B schedule
June 12: Canada vs UEFA playoff A – BMO Field, Toronto – 3pm ET
June 13: Qatar vs Switzerland – Levi’s Stadium, San Francisco Bay Area – 3pm ET
June 18: Switzerland vs UEFA playoff A – SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – 3pm ET
June 18: Canada vs Qatar – BC Place, Vancouver – 6pm ET
June 24: Switzerland vs Canada – BC Place, Vancouver – 3pm ET
June 24: UEFA playoff A vs Qatar – Lumen Field, Seattle – 3pm ET
Group C schedule
June 13: Brazil vs Morocco – MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey – 6pm ET
June 13: Haiti vs Scotland – Gillette Stadium, Boston – 9pm ET
June 19: Scotland vs Morocco – Gillette Stadium, Boston – 6pm ET
June 19: Brazil vs Haiti – Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia – 9pm ET
June 24: Scotland vs Brazil – Hard Rock Stadium, Miami – 6pm ET
June 24: Morocco vs Haiti – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 6pm ET
Group D schedule
June 12: USA vs Paraguay – SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – 9pm ET
June 13: Australia vs UEFA playoff C – BC Place, Vancouver – Midnight ET
June 19: USA vs Australia – Lumen Field, Seattle – 3pm ET
June 19: UEFA playoff C vs Paraguay – Levi’s Stadium, San Francisco Bay Area – Midnight ET
June 25: UEFA playoff C vs USA – SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – 10pm ET
June 25: Paraguay vs Australia – Levi’s Stadium, San Francisco Bay Area – 10pm ET
Group E schedule
June 14: Germany vs Curacao – NRG Stadium, Houston – 1pm ET
June 14: Ivory Coast vs Ecuador – Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia – 7pm ET
June 20: Germany vs Ivory Coast – BMO Field, Toronto – 4pm ET
June 20: Ecuador vs Curacao – Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City – 8pm ET
June 25: Ecuador vs Germany – MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey – 4pm ET
June 25: Curacao vs Ivory Coast – Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia – 4pm ET
Group F schedule
June 14: Netherlands vs Japan – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 4pm ET
June 14: UEFA playoff B vs Tunisia – Estadio BBVA, Monterrey – 10pm ET
June 20: Netherlands vs UEFA playoff B – NRG Stadium, Houston – 1pm ET
June 20: Tunisia vs Japan – Estadio BBVA, Monterrey – Midnight ET
June 25: Japan vs UEFA playoff B – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 7pm ET
June 25: Tunisia vs Netherlands – Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City – 7pm ET
Group G schedule
June 15: Iran vs New Zealand – SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – 9pm ET
June 15: Belgium vs Egypt – Lumen Field, Seattle – 3pm ET
June 21: Belgium vs Iran – SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – 3pm ET
June 21: New Zealand vs Egypt – BC Place, Vancouver – 9pm ET
June 26: Egypt vs Iran – Lumen Field, Seattle – 11pm ET
June 26: New Zealand vs Belgium – BC Place, Vancouver – 11pm ET
Group H schedule
June 15: Spain vs Cape Verde – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 12pm ET
June 15: Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay – Hard Rock Stadium, Miami – 6pm ET
June 21: Spain vs Saudi Arabia – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 12pm ET
June 21: Uruguay vs Cape Verde – Hard Rock Stadium, Miami – 6pm ET
June 26: Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia – NRG Stadium, Houston – 8pm ET
June 26: Uruguay vs Spain – Estadio Akron, Guadalajara – 8pm ET
Group I schedule
June 16: France vs Senegal – MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey – 3pm ET
June 16: Inter-confederation playoff 2 vs Norway – Gillette Stadium, Boston – 6pm ET
June 22: France vs Inter-confederation playoff 2 – Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia – 5pm ET
June 22: Norway vs Senegal – MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey – 8pm ET
June 26: Norway vs France – Gillette Stadium, Boston – 3pm ET
June 26: Senegal vs Inter-confederation playoff 2 – BMO Field, Toronto – 3pm ET
Group J schedule
June 16: Argentina vs Algeria – Arrowhead Stadium – Kansas City – 9pm ET
June 16: Austria vs Jordan – Levi’s Stadium, San Francisco Bay Area – Midnight ET
June 22: Argentina vs Austria – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 1pm ET
June 22: Jordan vs Algeria – Levi’s Stadium, San Francisco Bay Area – 11pm ET
June 27: Algeria vs Austria – Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City – 10pm ET
June 27: Jordan vs Argentina – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 10pm ET
Group K schedule
June 17: Portugal vs Inter-confederation playoff 1 – NRG Stadium, Houston – 1pm ET
June 17: Uzbekistan vs Colombia – Estadio Azteca, Mexico City – 10pm ET
June 23: Portugal vs Uzbekistan – NRG Stadium, Houston – 1pm ET
June 23: Colombia vs Inter-confederation playoff 1 – Estadio Akron, Guadalajara – 10pm ET
June 27: Colombia vs Portugal – Hard Rock Stadium, Miami – 7:30pm ET
June 27: Inter-confederation playoff 1 vs Uzbekistan – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 7:30pm ET
Group L schedule
June 17: England vs Croatia – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 4pm ET
June 17: Ghana vs Panama – BMO Field, Toronto – 7pm ET
June 23: England vs Ghana – Gillette Stadium, Boston – 4pm ET
June 23: Panama vs Croatia – BMO Field, Toronto – 7pm ET
June 27: Panama vs England – MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey – 5pm ET
June 27: Croatia vs Ghana – Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia – 5pm ET
Round of 32 schedule
June 28: Match 73 – Runner up Group A vs Runner up Group B – SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – 3pm ET
June 29: Match 76 – Winner Group C vs Runner up Group F – NRG Stadium, Houston – 1pm ET
June 29: Match 74 – Winner Group E vs 3rd Group A/B/C/D/F – Gillette Stadium, Boston – 4:30pm ET
June 29: Match 75 – Winner Group F vs Runner up Group C – Estadio BBVA, Monterrey – 9pm ET
June 30: Match 78 – Runner up Group E vs Runner up Group I – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 1pm ET
June 30: Match 77 – Winner Group I vs 3rd Group C/D/F/G/H – MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey – 5pm ET
June 30: Match 79 – Winner Group A vs 3rd Group C/E/F/H/I – Estadio Azteca, Mexico City – 9pm ET
July 1: Match 80 – Winner Group L vs 3rd Group E/H/I/J/K – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 12pm ET
July 1: Match 82 – Winner Group G vs 3rd Group A/E/H/I/J – Lumen Field, Seattle – 4pm ET
July 1: Match 81 – Winner Group D vs 3rd Group B/E/F/I/J – Levi’s Stadium, San Francisco Bay Area – 8pm ET
July 2: Match 84 – Winner Group H vs Runner up Group J – SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – 3pm ET
July 2: Match 83 – Runner up Group K vs Runner up Group L – BMO Field, Toronto – 7pm ET
July 2: Match 85 – Winner Group B vs 3rd Group E/F/G/I/J – BC Place, Vancouver – 11pm ET
July 3: Match 88 – Runner up Group D vs Runner up Group G – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 2pm ET
July 3: Match 86 – Winner Group J vs Runner up Group H – Hard Rock Stadium, Miami – 6pm ET
July 3: Match 87 – Winner Group K vs 3rd Group D/E/I/J/L – Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City – 9:30pm ET
Round of 16 schedule
July 4: Match 90 – Winner Match 73 vs Winner Match 75 – NRG Stadium, Houston – 1pm ET
July 4: Match 89 – Winner Match 74 vs Winner Match 77 – Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia – 5pm ET
July 5: Match 91 – Winner Match 76 vs Winner Match 78 – MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey – 4pm ET
July 5: Match 92 – Winner Match 79 vs Winner Match 80 – Estadio Azteca, Mexico City – 8pm ET
July 6: Match 93 – Winner Match 83 vs Winner Match 84 – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 3pm ET
July 6: Match 94 – Winner Match 81 vs Winner Match 82 – Lumen Field, Seattle – 8pm ET
July 7: Match 95 – Winner Match 86 vs Winner Match 88 – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 12pm ET
July 7: Match 96 – Winner Match 85 vs Winner Match 87 – BC Place, Vancouver – 4pm ET
Quarterfinal schedule
July 9: Match 97 – Winner Match 89 vs Winner Match 90 – Gillette Stadium, Boston – 4pm ET
July 10: Match 98 – Winner Match 93 vs Winner Match 94 – SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – 3pm ET
July 11: Match 99 – Winner Match 91 vs Winner Match 92 – Hard Rock Stadium, Miami – 5pm ET
July 11: Match 100 – Winner Match 95 vs Winner Match 96 – Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City – 9pm ET
Semifinal schedule
July 14: Match 101 – Winner Match 97 vs Winner Match 98 – AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 3pm ET
July 15: Match 102 – Winner Match 99 vs Winner Match 100 – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 3pm ET
Third-place game
July 18: Match 103 – Loser Match 101 vs Loser Match 102 – Hard Rock Stadium, Miami – 5pm ET
Final
July 19: Match 104 – Winner Match 101 vs Winner Match 102 – MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey – 3pm ET
World No. 1 Tennis Star Aryna Sabalenka Engaged, Flashes Huge Diamond
Aryna Sabalenka is heading into Indian Wells with a brand-new title — fiancée.
The WTA world No. 1 player announced that her boyfriend, Brazilian businessman Georgios Frangulis, popped the question on Tuesday … sharing a video of the moment on Instagram with the caption “You & me, forever” alongside a ring and heart emoji.
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The footage shows Frangulis getting down on one knee and presenting the 27-year-old Belarusian with a sparkling diamond — and judging by the video, the tennis star didn’t see it coming.
Sabalenka was dressed casually in jeans and a T-shirt for the moment … a surprise proposal for the Gucci ambassador, who’s usually seen in far more glam looks.
The engagement news quickly spread through the tennis world — with stars like Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, Ben Shelton and Amanda Anisimova flooding the comments with congratulatory messages.
The happy milestone comes after a difficult stretch in Sabalenka’s personal life. Her former boyfriend, ex-NHL player Konstantin Koltsov, died by suicide in March 2024 — a tragedy that rocked the tennis star during the early part of that season.
Now, Sabalenka appears to be entering a brighter chapter as she arrives at the Indian Wells Open, her first tournament since reaching the final of the Australian Open earlier this year.
It’s been a busy stretch for the world No. 1 … she introduced fans on Monday to her new puppy, Ash — and now she’s gained a fiancé as well.
On the tennis side, Sabalenka has a first-round bye and will face the winner of Alycia Parks vs. Himeno Sakatsume later this week.
Top-ranked tennis player Aryna Sabalenka announces engagement
Top-ranked tennis player Aryna Sabalenka has announced her engagement to Brazilian businessman Georgios Frangulis.
Sabalenka posted a video of the proposal on Instagram, accompanied with the words “You & me, forever” along with a ring and heart emoji.
The news quickly drew congratulations from fellow tennis players, including Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic and Amanda Anisimova, a possible opponent for Sabalenka in the quarterfinals at the forthcoming Indian Wells tournament in the Southern California desert.
The tournament that opens on Wednesday will be Sabalenka’s first since she reached the final at the Australian Open, where she lost to Elena Rybakina 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 on Jan. 31.
Tennis legend’s son Cruz Hewitt caught in UAE air strike chaos
Scary footage captured the moment players and officials were forced to flee the court during a tournament in the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday.
The ATP Challenger Tour event in Fujairah has been canceled as a result of the ongoing retaliatory air strikes from Iranian forces.
Aussies Cruz Hewitt, James McCabe and Jason Kubler are among the players caught up in the chaos, with tennis officials still seeking a solution to evacuate players ahead of the Indian Wells tennis tournament in California.
Hewitt, the son of Australian legend Lleyton Hewitt, and Kubler were due to play doubles on Tuesday.
However, the tournament has been called off as a result of the ongoing conflict, which has seen UAE locations come under fire from missiles and drones.
Next week’s tournament in Fujairah has also been canceled.
The scary situation for players at the Fujairah Open was captured on camera when players rushed off the court in the middle of a match because of a nearby explosion.
One match between Daniil Ostapenkov and Matsuoka Hayato was abruptly ended following a nearby incident.
An alarm was triggered at the Tennis Country Club Fujairah when a drone was intercepted near the port city.
Falling debris resulted in a fire in the oil industry area, The Sun reports.
In response to the shock incident, the Fujairah Media Office stated: “Relevant authorities in the Emirate of Fujairah responded to a fire that broke out this morning in the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone (FOIZ), resulting from falling debris following the successful interception of a drone by air defence systems.
“No injuries were reported, the fire was brought under control, and normal operations in the area have resumed.”
It follows the conclusion of the Dubai Tennis Championships on Saturday.
While that tournament was not directly disrupted by the strikes, multiple players now find themselves stranded in the area.
Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev are among the stars who have been forced to stay in Dubai following the grounding of outbound flights.
Earlier, a clip shared by Aussie McCabe captured the moment a loud explosion could be heard while he was resting in a hotel pool.
A Tennis Australia spokesperson on Tuesday said all the Australian players are safe.
“Tennis Australia is in close communication with the Australian players and their support teams currently in the United Arab Emirates,” a statement said.
“We have provided guidance based on information from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and the ATP which is working with local authorities on the ground.
“Most importantly, all Australian players and team members are safe and well.
“They are following the advice of local authorities, the Australian Government, and the ATP.”
Where to watch today’s Paribas Open Tennis matches: Day 1 TV schedule, free streams
The 2026 Paribas Open will bring some of the biggest stars in tennis to Indian Wells Tennis Garden to compete for titles won by Jack Draper and and Mirra Andreeva last season.
Opening day of the tournament features early action in the men’s singles divisions with TV coverage on Tennis Channel and streaming on-demand.
How to watch Day 1 at the 2026 Paribas Open and top current offers to live stream on Tennis Channel:
When: Wednesday, March 4 starting at 2 p.m. ET (11 a.m. PT)
Where: Indian Wells Tennis Garden, Indian Wells, Calif.
TV channel: Tennis Channel
Streaming on: FuboTV (free trial) | DirecTV (free trial) | SlingTV (low intro rate)
FuboTV (free trial): FuboTV offers the most extensive package of live sports with rates competitive with DirecTV. The FuboTV Pro ($48.99 first month), Elite ($53.99) and Deluxe ($73.99) all come with first-month discounts. Monthly rates rise to $73.99, $83.99 and $103.99 after the first-month discount.
DirecTV (free trial): DirecTV offers a 5-day free trial and a total of $30 off over the first three full months for the Choice Package, which includes 125-plus channels and access to ESPN Unlimited, a $29.99 standalone value featuring all ESPN channels and ESPN+.
SlingTV (low intro rate): First full month of streaming runs as low as $29.99 with current offer for 50% off Sling’s Orange & Blue Plan. Day passes are also available for 24 hours ($4.99), as well as three-day ($9.99) and seven-day access ($14.99).
The full schedule for Wednesday, March 4 at the 2026 Paribas Open can be found below:
PARIBAS OPEN TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS 2026
TV & STREAMING SCHEDULE
Times listed in ET and subject to change
MEN’S SINGLES
FIRST ROUND
2:00 PM: Camilo Ugo Carabelli vs. Martin Damm – Stadium 2
2:00 PM: Quentin Halys vs. Adam Walton – Stadium 5
2:00 PM: Mariano Navone vs. Marcos Giron – Stadium 4
3:00 PM: Daniel Altmaier vs. Miomir Kecmanovic – Stadium 7
3:30 PM: Zizou Bergs vs. Jan-Lennard Struff – Stadium 5
3:30 PM: Mattia Bellucci vs. Gabriel Diallo – Stadium 4
4:00 PM: Reilly Opelka vs. Ethan Quinn – Stadium 1
5:00 PM: Jenson Brooksby vs. Alexei Popyrin – Stadium 4
5:00 PM: Dalibor Svrcina vs. James Duckworth – Stadium 7
5:00 PM: Marton Fucsovics vs. Christopher O’Connell – Stadium 5
5:30 PM: Matteo Berrettini vs. Adrian Mannarino – Stadium 1
6:30 PM: Dino Prizmic vs. Tristan Schoolkate – Stadium 7
6:30 PM: Gael Monfils vs. Alexis Galarneau – Stadium 3
8:00 PM: Joao Fonseca vs. Raphael Collignon – Stadium 3
9:00 PM: Zachary Svajda vs. Marin Cilic – Stadium 2
10:30 PM: Stefanos Tsitsipas vs. Denis Shapovalov – Stadium 1
WOMEN’S SINGLES
FIRST ROUND
2:00 PM: Kimberly Birrell vs. Oksana Selekhmeteva – Stadium 6
2:00 PM: Sorana Cirstea vs. Tatjana Maria – Stadium 3
2:00 PM: Yulia Putintseva vs. Paula Badosa – Stadium 1
3:00 PM: Anastasia Potapova vs. Marina Stakusic – Stadium 9
3:30 PM: Zeynep Sonmez vs. McCartney Kessler – Stadium 2
3:30 PM: Talia Gibson vs. Ann Li – Stadium 3
3:30 PM: Ajla Tomljanovic vs. Elena-Gabriela Ruse – Stadium 6
4:30 PM: Ella Seidel vs. Anastasia Zakharova – Stadium 9
5:00 PM: Himeno Sakatsume vs. Alycia Parks – Stadium 3
5:00 PM: Victoria Jimenez Kasintseva vs. Catherine McNally – Stadium 2
5:00 PM: Jessica Bouzas Maneiro vs. Beatriz Haddad Maia – Stadium 6
6:00 PM: Dalma Galfi vs. Anna Blinkova – Stadium 9
6:30 PM: Jaqueline Cristian vs. Janice Tjen – Stadium 4
8:00 PM: Dayana Yastremska vs. Zhang Shuai – Stadium 4
9:00 PM: Bianca Andreescu vs. Kamilla Rakhimova – Stadium 1
10:30 PM: Sloane Stephens vs. Camila Osorio – Stadium 2
Tennis Star Aryna Sabalenka Didn’t Expect Surprise Proposal
Aryna Sabalenka and her boyfriend, Georgios Frangulis, revealed their engagement to the world on Wednesday, March 4, and the tennis star admitted she wasn’t prepared for the surprise proposal.
Sabalenka, 27, shared a video of herself showing off the ring via her Instagram Story, adding some lighthearted commentary.
“Well, I obviously had no idea this was happening tonight,” she wrote over the Story.
“All good guys, everything happened,” she said in the video. “But just look how I look.”
She then turned the camera on herself as she wore a white T-shirt and jeans.
“Pretty as f***,” Frangulis interjected.
The pair also shared joint posts to their feeds of the ring and the proposal itself, which showed Frangulis down on one knee with flowers behind him and candles surrounding them both.
“I can finally call him something else… FIANCÉ 💍,” Sabalenka captioned her Instagram carousel.
“You & me, forever ♾️ 3.3.26 💍🤍,” the couple captioned a video of the proposal.
The posts quickly drew congratulations in the comments from tennis royalty, including Carlos Alcaraz, Ben Shelton and Coco Gauff.
“Goosebumps, couldn’t be happier for you both 💜💜💜💜,” wrote Formula 1 driver Jack Doohan.
Injured Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn added a “congratulations” as well.
Sabalenka and Frangulis first met in January 2024 after she was named an ambassador for his Oakberry company.
“We signed the contract, then we got to know each other,” she told The Guardian in an August 2024 profile. “Somehow, we ended up being together.”
They went Instagram official that summer, and since then have not hesitated to share their lives together on social media.
In a June 2025 interview, she told Us Weekly exclusively that having Fragaulis on the road to support her while she plays has helped comfort her.
“His support means so much to me,” she told Us. “Being on the road and having him support me, to make me laugh and to be able to workout together, makes life on the road feel more like home.”
Frangulis was even on hand in September 2025 when Sabalenka captured the U.S. Open singles title. She greeted him in the stands and the two celebrated with a kiss. Sabalenka also joked at the U.S. Open about a potential proposal after a fan proposed to his girlfriend in the stands.
“I looked at my boyfriend,” she told reporters at the time. “No pressure.”
She joked about it again at the 2026 Brisbane International tournament, when she celebrated her win by thanking her “boyfriend.”
“Hopefully soon I’ll call you somehow else, right?” she added. “I just put on extra pressure, right?”
Buena rolls to big win in Channel League baseball opener
March 4, 2026, 2:31 p.m. PT
Highlights from Tuesday, March 3, and Monday, March 2, in high school spring sports:
BASEBALL
Tuesday
Brody Kaylor went 3 for 3 with two home runs and three RBIs, Cameron Ontriveros was 2 for 3 with a grand slam and five RBIs, Brody Burnett was 3 for 4 with a double and an RBI, Gabe Alonzo was 2 for 3 with a double and an RBI, and Isaac Speer went 2 for 4 with an RBI to lead Buena (1-5, 1-0) to a 13-3 win over San Marcos in a Channel League opener.
Rob Rodriguez allowed two hits and no earned runs while striking out five in six inning and was 2 for 4 with triple and two RBIs at the plate, Andrew Garcia went 2 for 3 with a solo home run, and Eric Barron finished 3 for 4 to lead Rio Mesa (2-5, 0-1) to a 6-1 victory over Oxnard in a Channel League opener. AJ Camarena went 2 for 3 for the Yellowjackets (1-3, 0-1).
Byron Cibrian was 1 for 3 with an RBI and Dario Navarro allowed just one earned run on three hits in 5.2 innings for Pacifica (2-4, 0-1) in its 2-1 loss to Santa Barbara in a Channel League opener.
Liam Spahr went 1 for 3 with two RBIs, Matt Licea went 2 for 4 with two runs scored, and Trevor Woodworth, Luis Jungo and Finn Schulze each had a hit and an RBI for Ventura (1-5, 0-1) in its 6-5 loss to Dos Pueblos in a Channel League opener.
Joseph Martinez went 2 for 3 with a double and four RBIs, Wyatt Richardson was 3 for 4 with three RBIs, Cristian Dominguez had a hit and three RBIs, and Collin Barker was 2 for 3 with two RBIs to lead St. Bonaventure (4-1) to a 26-0 win over Santa Clara in a nonleague game.
Aaron Berro was 2 for 3 with a double and an RBI and Max Mosanko had an RBI to lead Oak Park (3-1) to a 3-1 win over Nordhoff in a nonleague game. Weston Haley allowed two earned runs while striking out seven in six innings and went 2 for 2 at the plate for the Rangers (2-2).
Donovan Anthony allowed five hits while striking out four in five shutout innings, Braden Oliver went 2 for 4 with a homer and two RBIs, Christian Maher was 2 for 4 with a double and two RBIs, Kaden Graves was 2 for 4 with a triple and an RBI, and Colton Mellinger finished 3 for 3 with a double and three RBIs, to lead Agoura (4-2) to an 11-0 win over Culver City in a nonleague game.
Trevor Chang was 2 for 3 with a double and an RBI, Evan Barak went 2 for 2 with an RBI, Jayden Singer had a hit and two RBIs, Josh Odman allowed one earned run in four innings, and Conner Kingston struck out two in one inning to earn the save as Calabasas (5-1) defeated Palisades 3-1 in a nonleague game.
Peyton Visage went 2 for 3 and Dustin Dunwoody allowed one hit while striking out seven in five scoreless innings for Royal (4-1) in its 3-0 loss to Palos Verdes in a nonleague game.
Jacory Smith went 4 for 5 with an RBI, Cooper Casey was 3 for 4 with two RBIs, Andy Campa had a hit and three RBIs, and Cain Ebrahim was 2 for 4 for Foothill Tech (2-1) in its 11-10 loss to Castaic in a nonleague game.
Monday
Freshman Makai Saki went 3 for 3 with four RBIs, freshman Kade Monica threw four shutout innings, Dylan Ferguson was 2 for 3 with three runs scored, and Gavin Willis and Chase Borgstrom scored two runs apiece to lead Grace to an 11-0 win over Windward.
SOFTBALL
Tuesday
Analia Lopez allowed four hits and no earned runs while striking out nine in a complete-game effort in the circle and went 2 for 4 with two RBIs at the plate, Jazlynn Gonzalez was 2 for 3 with a double and an RBI, and Sophia Roman had a hit and two RBIs to lead Rio Mesa (3-1-1, 1-0) to a 5-1 win over Oxnard in a Channel League opener. Kayla Lorona was 1 for 3 with a double for the Yellowjackets (2-3, 0-1).
Addison Coe went 2 for 3 with a double, triple and two RBIs and Camila Magallon and Angelina Delgado each went 1 for 2 with an RBI for Buena (0-3, 0-1) in its 16-6 loss to San Marcos in a Channel League opener.
Sophia Pimentel was 1 for 2 for Ventura (2-3, 0-1) in its 10-0 loss to Dos Pueblos in a Channel League opener.
Shelby Kaiser went 2 for 3 with a home run and four RBIs, Kaylynn Dawson had a hit and two RBIs, and Charlene Bonilla went 3 for 5 to lead Thousand Oaks (2-1) to a 15-1 win over Royal (0-5) in a nonleague game.
Leea Martinez went 3 for 4 with two doubles and an RBI, Hudson Ortiz was 2 for 3 with a home run and three RBIs, Maci Schotten had a hit and two RBIs, Janessa Brown had a hit and an RBI, and Jessika Soliz allowed four hits and one earned run while striking out five in seven innings to lead St. Bonaventure (6-1) to a 7-3 win over Viewpoint in a nonleague game.
Veronica Wasserman allowed one earned run while striking out 12 in six innings, Mykala Paradis went 4 for 4 with a double and an RBI, Maya Garza was 1 for 1 with three RBIs, Grace Martinez had a double and two RBIs, and Brooklyn Ramirez went 2 for 4 to lead Newbury Park (5-0) to a 6-3 win over Grace in a nonleague game. Rosy Salazar went 2 for 4 with a home run and Grace Maguire was 2 for 4 for the Lancers (1-2).
Elle Samuels struck out 13 in a five-hit shutout, Maya Iles and Julia Katz each had a hit and two RBIs, and Shaila Esparza had a double and an RBI to lead Oak Park (2-3) to a 5-0 win over Louisville in a nonleague game.
Terrianna Kelley went 2 for 3 with a home run and three RBIs, Giabella Otani was 2 for 4 with a homer and two RBIs, Julia Horton had a homer and four RBIs, and Sophia Debs allowed one run on six hits while striking out 10 in a complete-game effort to lead Oaks Christian (7-0) to a 10-1 win over Saugus in a nonleague game.
Jo Buckley went 2 for 3 and Brooke Toledo had a hit and RBI for Moorpark (2-1) in its 7-1 loss to Chaminade in a nonleague game.
Monday
Janelle Sanchez went 4 for 5 with a double, triple, four RBIs and four runs scored, Kadyn Sanchez finished 3 for 3 with two doubles, a triple, four RBIs and and four runs scored, and Sophia Romero was 2 for 4 with a a double and two runs scored to lead Santa Clara to a 26-3 win over Nordhoff.
Isabella Jauregui went 3 for 4 with a home run, six RBIs and two runs scored and junior Shaila Esparza was 3 for 4 with a double for Oak Park in its 14-8 loss to Valencia.
BOYS GOLF
Tuesday
Jon Barclay shot a 3-under 68 and Copper Greenwood had an even-par 71 as Agoura finished with a team score of 372 to take first place at the fourth annual MAC Classic.
Ventura defeated Fillmore 397-516 in a nonleague match at Buenaventura Golf Course.
Monday
Broxton Borck shot a 75 to lead Oaks Christian to an eighth-place finish at the Glendora Invitational at Glendora Country Club.
BOYS TENNIS
Tuesday
Dylan Lin, Tristan Girodet and Noah Perttula each swept their singles sets and the doubles team of Gavin Guo and Connor Cleary won two sets to lead Oaks Christian (2-2, 1-0) to a 13-5 win over Newbury Park in a Marmonte League match. Clark Liang and Aaron Kim swept their sets for the Panthers.
BOYS VOLLEYBALL
Tuesday
Ventura defeated Fillmore 25-8, 25-10, 19-25, 25-5 in a nonleague match.
Moorpark earned a 25-22, 25-19, 25-20 sweep of Oxnard in a nonleague match. For the Yellowjackets (6-6), Levi Martinez finished with 21 assists, eight digs and two kills, Caiden Aguilar had eight kills, and Gavin Liston had six kills.
Camarillo swept Agoura 26-24, 25-22, 25-20 in a nonleague match. For the Chargers (4-1), Josh Supa and Jack Smolarski each had 10 kills, Liam Harary had seven kills, Wyatt Arnold had six kills, and Dash Cowley finished with 26 assists.
Rhys Freeman had nine kills and Curran Pendergraft had eight kills to lead Oaks Christian (3-0) to a 25-14, 25-16, 25-19 sweep of Foothill Tech in a nonleague match.
GIRLS BEACH VOLLEYBALL
Tuesday
St. Bonaventure defeated Providence 5-0 to improve to 3-2 overall and 1-0 in the Tri-Valley League.
Monday
Jane Mowrey and Jacky Piña won their match for Santa Clara in its 4-1 loss to Bishop Diego.
BOYS LACROSSE
Tuesday
Jaadin Weyandt scored four goals, Jake Williams had two goals, and Landon LaSecla, TJ Moore and goalie Mikey Lerch played well to lead Grace to a 7-5 win over Hart in a nonleague game.
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Valencia boys’ tennis secures win over Saugus at home
Valencia boys’ tennis picked up their second win of the year on Tuesday against the visiting Saugus Centurions, 13-5, with the Vikings’ doubles play ending the day with a 9-0 score across all three rounds.
In the third round of doubles play, the Vikings (2-1, 2-0) swept the Centurions (4-2, 2-1) each by a score of 6-0, 6-0, 6-0. And the Valencia pairing of Jason Lee and Noah Yu was the strongest showing for the Vikings as they scored 6-1, 6-0, 6-0, across all three rounds.
For Saugus, the Centurions relied on their singles play to get them each of their five points.
In the first round, the Centurions scored two of the three available points with Joaquin Veizaga winning in his matchup against Valencia’s Nikil Yada, 7-5.
Samuel Payne took the second point in a matchup against Valencia’s John Hinkle.
In the second round, the Centurions again scored two of the three points with Veizaga defeating Hinkle and Grant Schlotfelt winning against Yada.
In the third round, the Vikings bounced back and secured two of the three points with Stephen Hernadez and Yada winning in their respective matchups.
The Vikings play again on the road Thursday against the Coyotes at Castaic High School with the first set scheduled to begin at 3 p.m.
The Centurions will look to bounce back on the road Thursday at West Ranch against the Wildcats with the first set to begin at 3 p.m.
After Tuesday’s matches, here are scores from around the Foothill League:
Golden Valley 17, Castaic 1: The Grizzlies (3-2, 1-1) had a strong showing in Tuesday’s league win over the Castaic Coyotes (0-5, 0-3).
In the singles side, the Grizzlies swept the Coyotes 9-0 with Darin Zareno winning two of his matches, 6-0, 6-0.
In the doubles side, the Grizzlies defeated the Coyotes 8-1 with the lone point coming in the third round.
Damian Grazziani and Avery Porch won their matchup against Golden Valley’s Nolan Sokup and Christhoper Camarero, 6-3.
The Grizzlies play again on Thursday on the road against the Hart Hawks with the first set scheduled to begin at 3 p.m.
The Coyotes will look to bounce back in their next league match Thursday at home against the visiting Valencia Vikings with the first set scheduled to begin at 3 p.m.
West Ranch 18, Canyon 0: The Wildcats (3-1, 3-0) secured the 18-0 win over the Cowboys (1-3, 0-2) at Canyon High School on Tuesday.
With the win, the Wildcats began league play with a 2-0 record with a win over Castaic earlier in the season.
The Wildcats play again on Thursday at home against the visiting Saugus Centurions while the Cowboys will look to bounce back on Tuesday, March 10, at Golden Valley High School against the Grizzlies.
Both games are set to begin at 3 p.m.
PennLive’s Spring Sports Media Days recap: boys tennis
The boys tennis programs around the Mid-Penn joined us at PennLive H.Q. in Mechanicsburg.
The teams enjoyed photos, videos and interviews with the High School Sports reporters.
Check out all of the action from Tuesday and Wednesday.
As always, special thanks you to OSS Health for sponsoring another PennLive Media Days.
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Red Land boys tennis’ Matt Vansickle and Aiden French are poised to improve following the 2025 season.
The Lower Dauphin boys tennis team dropped by to chat during PennLive Media Days.
Susquehanna Township boys tennis is hungry to succeed in 2026.
Trinity boys tennis’ Marcus Luisi and head coach Eddy Geadah talk 2026 goals and the zombie apocalypse.
Middletown boys tennis stopped by in the thick of things during PennLive’s Spring Sports Media Days.
Carlisle boys tennis had some interesting answers about the zombie apocalypse.
Cedar Cliff boys tennis pulled up to PennLive HQ in their new threads.
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Follow Rymir Vaughn on X —@RymirVaughn
Djokovic says he will keep playing as long as he has ‘fire and flare’
INDIAN WELLS, California, March 4 (Reuters) – Novak Djokovic said he sees no reason to retire from tennis given that he is still motivated to compete and capable of beating the best players in the world.
The 38-year-old Serb defeated defending champion Jannik Sinner in a thrilling semi-final at the Australian Open in January before falling to world number one Carlos Alcaraz in the final, proving he is still a force on the sport’s biggest stages.
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Coco Gauff, Carlos Alcaraz and Others Speak Out as Middle East Crisis Sparks Anxiety Across Tennis World
The tennis world arrived at Indian Wells with heavy hearts. Rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have created uncertainty across the sport, leaving several players stranded after the Middle Eastern swing. Ahead of the BNP Paribas Open, stars like Coco Gauff, Carlos Alcaraz, and others addressed the situation, sending prayers and hoping for the safety of those affected.
The tensions between Iran, Israel, and neighboring regions escalated shortly after the Middle Eastern hard-court swing concluded. Multiple explosions were reported by locals in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, forcing the UAE’s Aviation Authority to close the country’s airspace temporarily. As a result, several players – including the 2026 Dubai Tennis Championships winner Daniil Medvedev and World No. 17 Andrey Rublev – found themselves unable to leave the region immediately after the tournament. Speaking ahead of Indian Wells, Coco Gauff shared heartfelt thoughts about the crisis and the uncertainty it has created.
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The American star admitted the news has been deeply concerning, especially with people close to her currently stuck in the region. “Yeah, I mean, first off, what’s happening is unfortunate, and my thoughts and prayers are out there for everyone affected, innocent lives being taken. I think it’s a lot of unnecessary violence going on,” Gauff said.
Despite the troubling developments, Coco Gauff also emphasized that she has never personally felt unsafe while competing in the Middle East. “As for the Middle East, I have never personally felt unsafe there, playing tournaments or anything like that. I have never felt unsafe.”
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While Gauff expressed relief at having left the region before the situation escalated, she also acknowledged that uncertainty is something players must deal with when competing globally. Carlos Alcaraz echoed similar sentiments. The Spaniard admitted the sudden escalation caught many players by surprise, especially since several of them had just competed in the region days earlier.
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“It was surprising, because a couple days or one week before we were all playing there, and all of a sudden everything happened,” Alcaraz said. “Seeing a few players stuck there, couldn’t travel at all, it’s been a little bit worrying, at least for me.” However, Alcaraz maintained that while the situation is concerning, he is trying to keep his focus on the tournament. “For me, it’s not a distraction at all. I just maintain my focus and be ready and practicing at my best, but we are all concerned about what’s going on, and the situation involving the players stuck there,” he added.
World number 2 Jannik Sinner also addressed the crisis, highlighting how global events sometimes remind players that there are bigger things than tennis. “There are certain things we cannot control really, and this is definitely one of them,” Sinner said. “I obviously hope that everyone is safe and they can come here to play or also to go home.” The Italian star added that while players try to stay focused on their preparation, situations like these put life into perspective.
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Other than Coco Gauff, another American star, Ben Shelton, also admitted that such global events often become a major topic of conversation among players in the locker room. “It’s tough, for sure. This last tour I had friends playing in Mexico with a lot of conflict, friends in the Middle East still there, people that are stuck over there,” Shelton said.
“We talk about it all the time, obviously praying for all the people, families affected, and people who are stuck in tough situations right now.” Interestingly, tennis officials have dealt with similar logistical challenges before. A few weeks ago, organizers had to manage travel disruptions for players competing in Mexico after violence erupted in the region following the death of a notorious drug lord.
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Meanwhile, there was some relief as Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev eventually managed to leave the United Arab Emirates. The duo traveled through Oman before reaching Istanbul, from where they boarded a flight to Los Angeles.
However, the travel complications forced both players to withdraw from the Eisenhower Cup exhibition event. Medvedev was originally scheduled to partner with Mirra Andreeva, while Rublev was set to team up with Amanda Anisimova. Their replacements ended up delivering an exciting spectacle. American youngster Learner Tien stepped in for Rublev to form an all-American pairing with Anisimova, while Alexander Bublik teamed up with Andreeva.
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Both teams impressed early on. Tien and Anisimova defeated the 2024 champions Emma Navarro and Ben Shelton, while Bublik and Andreeva overcame Jessica Pegula and Tommy Paul.
Yet beyond the exhibition drama, the bigger conversation around Indian Wells has centered on safety and global uncertainty. As Coco Gauff and other stars made clear, while tennis continues to travel across continents, moments like these remind players and fans alike… that some things matter far more than the sport.
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Coco Gauff’s coach is currently stranded in Dubai
Coco Gauff has arrived at Indian Wells, preparing for the prestigious BNP Paribas Open, but the American star is missing a key member of her team. Gauff revealed that her coach, Gavin MacMillan, is currently stranded in Dubai amid the escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Just two weeks ago, Gauff competed at the WTA 1000 event in Dubai, where her run ended in the semifinals on February 20 following a defeat to Elina Svitolina. After the loss, the World No. 4 quickly returned home to prepare for the Sunshine Double, while the situation in the region continued to develop.
During her pre-tournament press conference at Indian Wells, when Coco Gauff was asked about the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the two-time Grand Slam champion revealed that MacMillan is still in Dubai and is uncertain when he will be able to leave. “My coach, Gavin, is actually there right now; he’s currently stuck, and I don’t know if he’s going to make it. I just want him to be safe. I don’t know when he can leave and things like that. We are just taking it day by day with him.”
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While Gauff did not provide details about why MacMillan remained in the United Arab Emirates after the Dubai event, his absence means the American will have to rely on another familiar face during the tournament. Despite the setback, Coco Gauff will still have experienced guidance in her corner. French coach Jean-Christophe Faurel is set to lead her team at Indian Wells. Faurel has played an important role in Gauff’s career for years, first working with her when she was just 14.
The two initially began their partnership in August 2019, a period that coincided with Coco Gauff’s breakthrough on the global stage. Under Faurel’s guidance, the young American enjoyed memorable runs at Wimbledon and the US Open in 2019. Although the pair briefly split in 2020 due to visa issues, they reunited in April 2024 and have continued working together since.
Even with the coaching reshuffle, Coco Gauff faces a challenging path if she hopes to lift the trophy at Indian Wells this year. Like several top seeds, Gauff has received a first-round bye. Her campaign could begin with a tricky second-round clash against wildcard Bianca Andreescu, the 2019 US Open champion. Should Gauff progress, she could meet rising Filipino star Alexandra Eala in the third round – just weeks after comfortably defeating the youngster during the Dubai tournament.
The challenges don’t end there. Czech talent Linda Noskova looms as a potential fourth-round opponent, while Italy’s Jasmine Paolini could await in the quarterfinals. If Gauff manages to navigate that section of the draw, the final stages could become even more daunting. The American may need to overcome World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in the semifinals before potentially facing defending champion Iga Swiatek in the final. Do you think Gauff really has a chance to win the Indian Wells title this year?
Dahmen Loses a Full PGA Tour Card and Works His Way Into a $20M Event at Bay Hill
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Joel Dahmen was down to his last chance to keep his full PGA Tour card at the final tournament of the year. He missed the cut, headed home to Arizona to be with his newborn son and had a month to ponder a future that didn’t look terribly bright.
To be sure, teeing it up in a $20 million signature event at Bay Hill was not in his plans.
The new year of fewer cards — top 100 instead of 125 — and shorter fields left Dahmen uncertain about where he could play and how much. But he was reminded that good golf still pays off, and it earned him the final spot in the 72-man field at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
“It’s nice to hang out with the big kids this week,” Dahmen said Wednesday. “Incredible event. Really hard golf course. It’s definitely elevated, signature event. You can feel it, and I’m just super excited to be here.”
How did this happen?
It wasn’t the gift of sponsor exemptions. Dahmen has asked for one every week, but he has received only one — at the WM Phoenix Open and that was the only cut he missed this year. Instead, he barely got into the field at Torrey Pines and tied for seventh, and he was among the last to get in the Cognizant Classic last week and tied for ninth by going bogey-free his last 27 holes.
It was enough — by five FedEx Cup points — to get the last spot over Jordan Spieth, who already had a sponsor exemption to Bay Hill.
“No, I could not see myself here,” the 38-year-old Dahmen said.
Dahmen makes it into $20M field at Bay Hill despite losing PGA Tour card
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Joel Dahmen was down to his last chance to keep his full PGA Tour card at the final tournament of the year. He missed the cut, headed home to Arizona to be with his newborn son and had a month to ponder a future that didn’t look terribly bright.
To be sure, teeing it up in a $20 million signature event at Bay Hill was not in his plans.
The new year of fewer cards — top 100 instead of 125 — and shorter fields left Dahmen uncertain about where he could play and how much. But he was reminded that good golf still pays off, and it earned him the final spot in the 72-man field at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
“It’s nice to hang out with the big kids this week,” Dahmen said Wednesday. “Incredible event. Really hard golf course. It’s definitely elevated, signature event. You can feel it, and I’m just super excited to be here.”
How did this happen?
It wasn’t the gift of sponsor exemptions. Dahmen has asked for one every week, but he has received only one — at the WM Phoenix Open and that was the only cut he missed this year. Instead, he barely got into the field at Torrey Pines and tied for seventh, and he was among the last to get in the Cognizant Classic last week and tied for ninth by going bogey-free his last 27 holes.
It was enough — by five FedEx Cup points — to get the last spot over Jordan Spieth, who already had a sponsor exemption to Bay Hill.
“No, I could not see myself here,” the 38-year-old Dahmen said. “It was the first time in a long time that there was a lot of unknowns in my career. … I think most players didn’t really know the schedule, we didn’t know what we were going to get into. So I think for me the biggest thing was that every single start is a big start.
“It was just taking advantage of the opportunities, and so far I’ve done that.”
These next two weeks — Bay Hill and The Players Championship — are huge for a guy in Dahmen’s position. He is not eligible for the three events after The Players, and only his good play kept him from having off five straight weeks.
But it’s a strong field. Scottie Scheffler, the No. 1 player in the world, has won twice at Bay Hill in the last four years. The field features 19 of the top 20 in the world, and that includes Justin Thomas, who is competing for the first time since the Ryder Cup after back surgery.
“I’ve got to be realistic. I haven’t played a tournament in six months,” Thomas said. “I feel like I can do anything I want with the golf ball at any given time. It’s just going to be the concentrating for four-and-a-half, five hours on a very difficult test.”
Austin Smotherman, who graduated from the Korn Ferry Tour last year, also played his way into the field with a runner-up finish last week.
“That’s part of why people love seeing maybe slightly bigger fields, seeing the underdog story, is that on a given week there’s a lot of guys in the world that can play golf,” Collin Morikawa said. “But at the same time opportunities aren’t just handed out to everyone. You have to go and earn it.
“Joe was given an opportunity. He’s taken that opportunity and turned it into something great.”
It didn’t start out that way.
There was joy being around his newborn. There was Thanksgiving dinner to host. And then there was time on the couch. The golf clubs were put away. It was Dec. 27 when his wife casually asked him if he thought about his immediate future and Dahmen realized he should probably practice.
“Yeah, the path to the tour is rougher. The path to stay on tour is tougher than it’s ever been,” Dahmen said. “There’s a lot of talk about being more of a closed shop. … But on the other side I’m proof that in four events you can play well enough and earn your way into these events. And if you play well in one of these next two, you keep going on the upward trend.”
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Dahmen loses a full PGA Tour card and works his way into a $20M event at Bay Hill
ORLANDO, Fla. – Joel Dahmen was down to his last chance to keep his full PGA Tour card at the final tournament of the year. He missed the cut, headed home to Arizona to be with his newborn son and had a month to ponder a future that didn’t look terribly bright.
To be sure, teeing it up in a $20 million signature event at Bay Hill was not in his plans.
The new year of fewer cards — top 100 instead of 125 — and shorter fields left Dahmen uncertain about where he could play and how much. But he was reminded that good golf still pays off, and it earned him the final spot in the 72-man field at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
“It’s nice to hang out with the big kids this week,” Dahmen said Wednesday. “Incredible event. Really hard golf course. It’s definitely elevated, signature event. You can feel it, and I’m just super excited to be here.”
How did this happen?
It wasn’t the gift of sponsor exemptions. Dahmen has asked for one every week, but he has received only one — at the WM Phoenix Open and that was the only cut he missed this year. Instead, he barely got into the field at Torrey Pines and tied for seventh, and he was among the last to get in the Cognizant Classic last week and tied for ninth by going bogey-free his last 27 holes.
It was enough — by five FedEx Cup points — to get the last spot over Jordan Spieth, who already had a sponsor exemption to Bay Hill.
“No, I could not see myself here,” the 38-year-old Dahmen said.
Dahmen loses a full PGA Tour card and works his way into a $20M event at Bay Hill
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Joel Dahmen was down to his last chance to keep his full PGA Tour card at the final tournament of the year. He missed the cut, headed home to Arizona to be with his newborn son and had a month to ponder a future that didn’t look terribly bright.
To be sure, teeing it up in a $20 million signature event at Bay Hill was not in his plans.
The new year of fewer cards — top 100 instead of 125 — and shorter fields left Dahmen uncertain about where he could play and how much. But he was reminded that good golf still pays off, and it earned him the final spot in the 72-man field at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
“It’s nice to hang out with the big kids this week,” Dahmen said Wednesday. “Incredible event. Really hard golf course. It’s definitely elevated, signature event. You can feel it, and I’m just super excited to be here.”
How did this happen?
It wasn’t the gift of sponsor exemptions. Dahmen has asked for one every week, but he has received only one — at the WM Phoenix Open and that was the only cut he missed this year. Instead, he barely got into the field at Torrey Pines and tied for seventh, and he was among the last to get in the Cognizant Classic last week and tied for ninth by going bogey-free his last 27 holes.
It was enough — by five FedEx Cup points — to get the last spot over Jordan Spieth, who already had a sponsor exemption to Bay Hill.
“No, I could not see myself here,” the 38-year-old Dahmen said. “It was the first time in a long time that there was a lot of unknowns in my career. … I think most players didn’t really know the schedule, we didn’t know what we were going to get into. So I think for me the biggest thing was that every single start is a big start.
“It was just taking advantage of the opportunities, and so far I’ve done that.”
These next two weeks — Bay Hill and The Players Championship — are huge for a guy in Dahmen’s position. He is not eligible for the three events after The Players, and only his good play kept him from having off five straight weeks.
But it’s a strong field. Scottie Scheffler, the No. 1 player in the world, has won twice at Bay Hill in the last four years. The field features 19 of the top 20 in the world, and that includes Justin Thomas, who is competing for the first time since the Ryder Cup after back surgery.
“I’ve got to be realistic. I haven’t played a tournament in six months,” Thomas said. “I feel like I can do anything I want with the golf ball at any given time. It’s just going to be the concentrating for four-and-a-half, five hours on a very difficult test.”
Austin Smotherman, who graduated from the Korn Ferry Tour last year, also played his way into the field with a runner-up finish last week.
“That’s part of why people love seeing maybe slightly bigger fields, seeing the underdog story, is that on a given week there’s a lot of guys in the world that can play golf,” Collin Morikawa said. “But at the same time opportunities aren’t just handed out to everyone. You have to go and earn it.
“Joe was given an opportunity. He’s taken that opportunity and turned it into something great.”
It didn’t start out that way.
There was joy being around his newborn. There was Thanksgiving dinner to host. And then there was time on the couch. The golf clubs were put away. It was Dec. 27 when his wife casually asked him if he thought about his immediate future and Dahmen realized he should probably practice.
“Yeah, the path to the tour is rougher. The path to stay on tour is tougher than it’s ever been,” Dahmen said. “There’s a lot of talk about being more of a closed shop. … But on the other side I’m proof that in four events you can play well enough and earn your way into these events. And if you play well in one of these next two, you keep going on the upward trend.”
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Copyright © 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.
2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational odds, picks: Surprising predictions from model that’s called 16 majors
The PGA Florida Swing continues with the 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational at Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club and Lodge. The Signature Event status for this tournament brings virtually all of the PGA’s top players back after most sat out last week’s Cognizant Classic. The top-10 players in the Official World Golf Ranking are all in the field, and it’s Scottie Scheffler who is atop the 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational odds board at FanDuel Sportsbook as the first tee times come at 7:40 a.m. ET on Thursday.
He’s the +310 favorite (risk $100 to win $310), followed by Rory McIlroy at +1000. Tommy Fleetwood (+2000), Matt Fitzpatrick (+2200), Collin Morikawa (+2500) and Xander Schauffele (+2500) are among the other 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational favorites. Before locking in any 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational picks, entering any Arnold Palmer Invitational one and done contests, or making any PGA DFS picks on sites like FanDuel or DraftKings, be sure to see the golf predictions and projected leaderboard from the proven computer model at SportsLine.
SportsLine’s proprietary model, built by DFS pro Mike McClure, simulated every PGA Tour event 10,000 times and reveals golf betting picks that have a history of being extremely profitable.
This same model has also nailed a whopping 16 majors entering the weekend, including the 2025 Masters — its fourth Masters in a row — as well as last year’s PGA Championship and Open Championship. Anyone who has followed its sports betting picks could have seen massive returns on betting sites.
New users can also target the DraftKings promo code, which offers $200 in bonus bets if your first $5+ bet wins:
Now that the 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational field is locked in, the model simulated the tournament 10,000 times, and the results were surprising. Head to SportsLine now to see the projected leaderboard, which you can use for PGA picks, one and done contests or golf DFS lineups.
2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational predictions
One major surprise the model is calling for at the API 2026: Schauffele, one of the favorites and a two-time major winner, barely cracks the top 10 of the projected leaderboard. He’s a golfer to fade this week. The 32-year-old finished T7 at the Genesis Invitational last time out, but otherwise has finished T19 or worse in every other tournament this year. He’s never finished in the top 20 of this tournament and was T40 after barely making the cut at this event last year. See who else to fade here.
Another surprise: The model says Si Woo Kim makes a strong run at the title, even though he has slightly longer odds at +2700. Kim has cooled a bit in his past two events, but he opened the season with four straight finishes of T11 or better, including a T2 at the Farmers Insurance Open and a T3 at the WM Phoenix Open. See who else to pick here.
New users can also check out the latest FanDuel promo code and get $100 in bonus bets at FanDuel if your first $5+ bet wins:
How to make 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational picks
The model is also targeting a huge +4000 longshot outright bet. You can only see the model’s picks here.
Who will win the 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational, and which massive longshots will stun the golfing world? Check out the 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational odds below and then visit SportsLine to see the projected leaderboard, all from the model that’s nailed 16 golf majors, including three in 2025.
2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational odds, favorites
Get full 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational picks, best bets and predictions here.
(odds via FanDuel and subject to change)
Justin Thomas, Charles Barkley trade football barbs
Former Alabama All-American Justin Thomas will play in a PGA Tour tournament for the first time since September on Thursday, and he spent about 20 minutes talking with reporters about his return on Wednesday afternoon.
But after detailing his journey back to competition, Thomas faced one more question – from former Auburn great and Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame member Charles Barkley, who started his interaction by chastising Thomas.
“First of all, he lied,” Barkley told the press-conference crowd “You don’t know how to read. You went to Alabama. But my question is: When Alabama was getting rolled by Indiana, where exactly were you at?”
The Crimson Tide lost to Indiana 38-3 in the Rose Bowl during the College Football Playoff on Jan. 1.
“I was at home,” Thomas said. “Yeah, I was at home probably just looking at my phone waiting for some kind of sarcastic text from you or, all of a sudden, all of these huge Indiana football fans that were friends of mine that I had no idea about.
“So, yeah, I should have reached out to you how you deal with big losses like that. I mean, you’ve gone through that more than I have, so I should have just asked you.”
To Thomas’ answer, Barkley replied: “That was well-played.”
Barkley brought up Thomas’ reading ability because the golfer had been asked to name the best book he read while he was away from the golf course.
“Matthew McConaughey’s book ‘Greenlights’ is pretty good,” Thomas said. “I really like that one. Although every single person I told about reading it responded with, ‘You should have listened to it on audio.’ And I’m just proud of myself that I actually read the book.”
Thomas is scheduled to tee off at 12:20 p.m. CST Thursday with Hideki Matsuyama in the first round of the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill Club and Lodge in Orlando, Florida.
After playing in the Ryder Cup on Sept. 28, Thomas announced on Nov. 14 he had undergone a microdiscectomy to relieve a disc problem that had caused nagging hip pain. He warmed up for his return by playing for the Atlanta Drive Golf Club in a TGL match on Feb. 23.
“Feeling good,” Thomas said. “I’m obviously excited to start the season. Been watching a lot of golf, so I’m excited to be playing it in competition for myself this week. I mean, there’s not much else to say other than that. I’m excited to be back out.”
Scottie Scheffler Makes Feelings Clear on PGA Tour CEO for Making Controversial Decisions Despite Backlash
Brian Rolapp’s tenure so far as PGA Tour CEO has been controversial. His decisions to make the Tour better have garnered both praise and criticism. But now he’s found a powerful ally in the world’s No. 1, Scottie Scheffler. The golfer’s comments at the 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational prove it.
“As far as [I know] Mr. Rolapp, I think he’s a guy that just kind of gets things done. Like that was my first impression of him. I met him last year at one of the playoff events. We sat down, and it was just like getting right into it. He started asking questions, and we started talking. It was like no nonsense, like, ‘We got an hour; let’s make the most of this hour.’ I loved it. I loved his demeanor. So he seems like just kind of like a no-BS guy, just get in there, and let’s get to work and figure this thing out,” Scheffler told the media.
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“You look at a situation like Brooks. That was something that Brooks had a desire to come back to the Tour, and Rolapp was like, ‘Okay, he wants to come back; let’s figure out how to do this,’ and then got it done in a pretty quick fashion,” Scheffler added.
What made Rolapp actually different was that he never promoted himself over time. This is where things started changing. The most visible demonstration of Rolapp’s efficiency was the return of five-time major champion Brooks Koepka to the PGA Tour after he left LIV, stating his need to prioritize family more. The timeline of Koepka’s departure from LIV Golf and return to the PGA Tour was remarkably swift.
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Just 19 minutes after news of Koepka’s LIV exit, the PGA Tour released a pointed statement. Within weeks, the CEO implemented the ‘Returning Member Program,’ a tactical olive branch designed to bring back not just Koepka but other elites, too. Rolapp is doing much more than just bringing back golfers.
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He has established a Future Competition Committee (FCC), chaired by Tiger Woods, to rethink the Tour’s holistic model. They are working on a “scarcity model” to make every single tournament special with fewer players but more competitiveness. He wants to finish the season by Labor Day to avoid the NFL clash, as it will elevate the fan experience, with them not having to choose between two sports.
Nobody knows how the changes will affect the Tour and the fans, but at least #1 is excited about them. Scottie Scheffler isn’t the only one who noticed Rolapp’s work ethic. Several others have, too.
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A unanimous insider told Golf.com, “He’s [Rolapp] bringing so much credibility. He’s the number two guy at, by far, the most successful sports league in this country. Obviously, his challenges will be bigger than what he’s done in the past. But he’s smart, he’s a good listener, and he’s really well-liked and personable.”
Rolapp, 52, enters the PGA Tour after years as the most important deputy in pro sports, the right-hand man to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and the media whiz responsible for media deals worth over $110 billion. He was also instrumental in moving major products like ‘NFL Sunday Ticket’ to YouTube. He arrived at the NFL as an executive at NFL Media in 2003 and climbed the ladder steadily and was promoted six times in his tenure over the 22 years.
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While Scheffler is praising Rolapp, not everyone seems to admire his ideas and ways.
Not everyone feels as strongly about Brian Rolapp as Scottie Scheffler
“If you had told me that I could have gone for a year and a half, made a boatload of money, and then been able to come back and play on the Tour, I think almost everyone would have done that,” said Wyndham Clark on Koepka’s return.
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It’s not just Wyndham Clark who called out Rolapp’s decision to bring Koepka back. Several others showed their frustrations. An anonymous pro discussed that the ninety-million-dollar penalty for Brooks is a big lie.
Even Brandel Chamblee was among the most vocal ones who argued that the ‘frictionless’ return for Koepka undermines the meritocratic foundation of the Tour. After all, Koepka was a marquee legitimizer of LIV Golf.
The same goes for Rolapp’s decision on the schedule change.
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“It’s just a shame that more people won’t speak out. I know many people don’t like it. I know a lot of people who have benefited from it—myself included—who don’t like it. But there’s just so much money being given away that nobody’s going to say anything,” said Lucas Glover of the probable changes in the schedule.
Glover didn’t hesitate to call out the shallow and financial outlook of the PGA Tour and accused the leadership of hiding real motives. Several others, like Brian Harman, a member of the Player Advisory Council, also pointed out the delusions.
At the end, what everyone knows for sure is that Rolapp is applying a cold and hard business logic to a game built on tradition.
Former NASCAR champion Kyle Busch settles $8.5M lawsuit against life insurance company
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Two-time NASCAR champion Kyle Busch and a life insurance company have settled an $8.5 million lawsuit in which the driver said he was misled into purchasing policies marketed as safe retirement plans.
Kyle and Samantha Busch reached an out-of-court settlement with Pacific Life Insurance Company, according to a Feb. 26 court filing. Terms were confidential.
“Both sides worked constructively to achieve a confidential result that is mutually acceptable and avoids further legal proceedings,” Pacific Life said in a statement.
The Busches sued Pacific Life last October, claiming they lost more than $8.5 million after being misled into purchasing life insurance policies. They claim they paid over $10.4 million in premiums based on misleading illustrations and false promises of guaranteed returns.
The lawsuit accused Pacific Life and one of its agents of marketing indexed universal life policies as “tax-free retirement plans” using speculative projections that failed to disclose true risks and costs. The complaint claimed the company prioritized commissions over policyholder interests and violated North Carolina’s Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act.
Pacific Life filed for dismissal in January, contending the Busches failed to fully fund their policies and signed documents agreeing to the terms. The company also argued the lawsuit exceeds the three-year statute of limitations, noting it was filed seven years after the policies were initiated.
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Copyright © 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.
Cleetus McFarland Announces Next Step in NASCAR Career
Garrett Mitchell, better known by his professional name “Cleetus McFarland,” ventured into NASCAR racing last year. The Florida native made four starts in the ARCA Menards Series in 2025, scoring a pair of top-1o finishes.
This year, McFarland made his CRAFTSMAN Truck Series debut. Unfortunately for the 30-year-old, it was a short-lived first start after crashing out of the race on the sixth lap.
Despite that, the internet personality is taking his NASCAR career to the next level. It was announced on Wednesday, March 4, that McFarland is moving up to the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series for Richard Childress Racing.
Piloting the No. 33 car, McFarland will make his debut at Rockingham Speedway on Satruday, April 4.
Cleetus McFarland on joining Richard Childress Racing: ‘Dream come true’
In an RCR press release, McFarland expressed his excitement to be making his O’Reilly Auto Parts Series debut with the organization. The YouTube star looks forward to learning under the leadership of Childress and everyone involved at RCR.
“To have the opportunity to make my NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series debut with a legendary race team like Richard Childress Racing is a dream come true,” McFarland said.
Tommy’s Express is coming onboard as McFarland’s sponsor for the race. Headquartered in Holland, Michigan, Tommy’s Express is a car wash franchise with over 240 locations across North America.
“They’re a fast-forward brand that understands speed, performance, and connecting with people, which lines up perfectly with everything we are trying to accomplish,” McFarland said.
Alex Lemmen, Chief Executive Officer of Tommy’s Express, is thrilled about the opportunity to partner with RCR and McFarland. Lemmen believes many of their qualities align with the organization.
Those traits include being “family-owned, multi-generational, vertically integrated, and on the cutting edge of speed, technology, and execution.”
“We could not be more excited about hitting the track with Richard Childress Racing and Cleetus McFarland. We are humbled to partner with an iconic brand, company, and story such as RCR – our organizations share many of the same mission and purpose,” Lemmen said.
McFarland told retired NASCAR champion Kevin Harvick on “SPEED with Harvick & Buxton” that he signed a two-year deal with RCR. The partnership begins in the North Carolina Education Lottery 250 at Rockingham Speedway on April 4.
Cleetus McFarland made Truck debut at Daytona in February
Last month, McFarland made his CRAFTSMAN Truck Series debut at Daytona. Wheeling the No. 4 truck for Niece Motorsports, McFarland started the Fresh from Florida 250 from the 12th position.
Yet, McFarland didn’t last long in the 100-lap event. On lap six, McFarland was occupying the inside line coming off of turn four when his truck got sideways. McFarland slid down the frontstretch and collided with the inside wall.
The damage was too severe to continue as McFarland posted a dead-last finish of 37th.
McFarland is best known for being a YouTube personality. With over 1,500 videos posted, McFarland has amassed over 4.65 million subscribers.
Mark Martin Questions NASCAR’s ‘Hushed’ Purse Policy Amidst Fan Transparency Push
The winning purse for the upcoming race at Phoenix Raceway is currently being prepared, but there is a massive difference in the reported purse between the Cup and NOAP Series. Reason? NASCAR has been quite secretive about its purse ever since the Charter System was introduced. While the sport has its reasons, veteran Mark Martin is not satisfied with scratching the surface and wants the deeper answers.
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Mark Martin questions NASCAR’s discrepancy
Martin comes from the early era of racing, when NASCAR was more transparent with the teams and especially the fans. However, ever since the purse was stopped from being revealed to the public, there have been some growing concerns. The Charter system in itself has been criticized multiple times, with 23XI Racing even filing a lawsuit regarding the same.
But there seems to be more beneath the sport, not revealing the exact purse, like Martin wrote on X:
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“We the fans would love to know how these purse $ are distributed like we used to. But I guess NASCAR and the teams would rather keep that concealed,” he wrote.
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What he said seems justifiable. As per insider Bob Pockrass, the Cup purse is set at $11,233,037. Meanwhile, the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series drops to $1,653,590. This seems like a massive drop, and no clear reason is specified. Moreover, the exact prize that the race winner will take is also not revealed. These massive figures only reveal a lump sum that includes charter payouts, contingencies, and year-end fund contributions.
These calculations were also questioned when Daytona 500 winner, Tyler Reddick, only got a very small percentage of the winner’s purse. As per sources, this year’s Great American Race had a whopping purse of $31,045,575. However, after all the taxes he had to pay, Reddick was reported to only carry home around $936,950, roughly 58% of the actual purse.
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This sounds like a joke; however, NASCAR has been operating this way for a decade now. The rules were changed back in 2016, and the fans have not known the exact winner’s purse since then. At the end of the day, however, it feels only right that a veteran like Mark Martin is questioning the authorities, albeit with no hopes of an actual, straightforward reply. The fans also seem to support him, but it’s NASCAR’s decision.
How NASCAR defended its secrecy regarding the race purse
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There were quite a few changes going on in NASCAR a decade ago. Apart from the change in the championship format (introduction of the elimination-style playoffs), there was also the introduction of the Charter System. As per this, the chartered teams were guaranteed to run every single race, with a total of 36 charters. The remaining cars had to qualify for every single race.
With the introduction of these, NASCAR seemed to be going more secretive about its business dealings, including the purse.
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“It’s a new foundation and a new era,” Brent Dewar, the COO at the time, said. “We’ve changed a lot of things from that old model to this model. That’s one of the things that was from a different time and place.”
Ten years later, the decision still does not sit well with the fans. And neither with the veteran drivers, as Mark Martin’s statement clearly proves. As of now, one of the major issues the teams had has been resolved. The Charters are made evergreen as a result of the lawsuit’s settlement. Still, there are quite a few changes yet to come to make the sport more transparent.
37-Car Entry List for 2026 Phoenix Raceway Race
The NASCAR Cup Series heads to Arizona this weekend for the Straight Talk Wireless 500. The race takes place at Phoenix Raceway on Sunday, March 8, 2026. This event marks an early turning point in the season schedule. It is the first race that is not a superspeedway or road course. Teams now face the one-mile oval at Phoenix.
The track sits in Avondale, Arizona. Its flat corners and dogleg front stretch test drivers and teams. Pit calls and tire wear often decide the outcome. The race also gives teams a clearer look at their speed. Several lineup changes and a new rules adjustment add more focus to this weekend’s race.
NASCAR Cup Series Entry List Includes 37 Cars
NASCAR released a 37-car entry list for the race. The field includes 36 chartered teams and one open entry. The open car is the No. 33 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet. Austin Hill will drive the car this weekend.
Austin Hill already has one win this year in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season. That victory came at Daytona.
The entry list includes many regular Cup drivers. Ross Chastain returns in the No. 1 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet. Austin Cindric drives the No. 2 Ford for Team Penske. Austin Dillon returns in the No. 3 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet.
Noah Gragson will drive the No. 4 Ford for Front Row Motorsports. Kyle Larson returns in the No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet. Brad Keselowski drives the No. 6 Ford for RFK Racing.
Kyle Busch competes in the No. 8 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet. Chase Elliott drives the No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet. Denny Hamlin returns in the No. 11 Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing.
Ryan Blaney drives the No. 12 Ford for Team Penske. Christopher Bell returns in the No. 20 Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing. William Byron drives the No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet.
The list also includes Tyler Reddick in the No. 45 Toyota for 23XI Racing. Rookie Connor Zilisch appears in the No. 88 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet. Shane van Gisbergen drives the No. 97 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet.
Driver Moves Highlight The 2026 Season
The 2026 season includes several driver and team changes. Connor Zilisch begins his first full Cup season this year. He drives the No. 88 Chevrolet for Trackhouse Racing. The Phoenix race marks his first Cup start at this track.
Daniel Suárez also changed teams before the season began. He now drives the No. 7 Chevrolet for Spire Motorsports. Suárez replaced Justin Haley in that seat.
Some teams also switched manufacturers. The Haas Factory Team moved to Chevrolet for the 2026 season. Cole Custer drives the team’s No. 41 car. Rick Ware Racing also changed to Chevrolet this year. Cody Ware drives the No. 51 car for that team.
These changes increase Chevrolet’s presence in the Cup Series field this season.
Phoenix Raceway Adds New Technical Rule
The Phoenix race also introduces a major technical update. NASCAR introduced a new horsepower rule for short tracks starting with the 2026 season. For the 2026 season, NASCAR raised the horsepower level used on short tracks. NASCAR raised the engine output to 750 horsepower for races on tracks shorter than 1.5 miles.
The previous limit was 670 horsepower. Phoenix Raceway falls within the new rule. Teams will see the higher power level here for the first time.
The track often produces aggressive restarts. Drivers use the dogleg section of the front stretch to gain position. The added horsepower could make those restarts even more intense.
Cleetus McFarland Handed Richard Childress’ All-Star Seat Amid Growing Backlash From NASCAR Community
Generally, the NASCAR community rewards and appreciates drivers when they get promoted and climb up the ladder of the sport. But that’s not the case for Cleetus McFarland. This happened after the famous YouTuber turned stock car driver recently scored his biggest hit yet. But the fans felt it wasn’t exactly earned.
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Cleetus McFarland gets a big ticket against fan sentiment
On Wednesday, Richard Childress Racing announced that Cleetus McFarland has signed a deal with the legendary team. McFarland signed a two-year deal with RCR to race in at least three O’Reilly Auto Parts Series races each season.
While this is a big win for Cleetus McFarland, it also comes in the aftermath of his first foray into NASCAR. Ahead of this season, McFarland was announced to be running in the Truck Series for Niece Motorsports at Daytona.
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However, McFarland’s first NASCAR race came to a disappointing end very quickly. The 30-year-old started the race in the season opener in 12th position. But the big hype around his entry ended quickly within the first six laps, as he crashed off Turn 4 before hitting the inside wall and ending up with a DNF finish.
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His result in Daytona and now his deal with RCR have left a sour taste in a section of the NASCAR community. The general sentiment was that McFarland’s deal wasn’t earned, and his lack of experience should’ve been a factor. Many fans believed that McFarland not having run even a full ARCA season clearly suggests he isn’t ready for this jump.
Many also accused the sport of being biased towards Cleetus for the huge fanbase that he brings with him, which is beneficial for the sport.
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McFarland will make his debut under the new deal at Rockingham. His deal also includes races at Daytona and Talladega. In a statement issued by the YouTuber, he expressed his thoughts on the deal.
“To have the opportunity to make my NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series debut with a legendary race team like Richard Childress Racing is a dream come true,” McFarland said, as per Motorsport.
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He remarked on the “huge honor” and expressed his gratitude for Richard Childress.
Having said that, it hasn’t all bad for McFarland behind the wheel of a racecar. In his six starts in the ARCA Series, he has two top 10s and three top 20 finishes to his name. In fact, one of his top 10s came at Talladega, a racetrack he’s speculated to race under RCR with the new deal.
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Dale Jr. showed faith in McFarland despite Daytona heartbreak
One of the biggest names who has shown faith in Cleetus McFarland is none other than Dale Earnhardt Jr. The NASCAR Hall of Famer, who has also featured on McFarland’s YouTube channel with nearly 5 million subscribers, shared his thoughts after his unfortunate Daytona outing.
Earnhardt Jr. claimed that McFarland is currently not ready to race in the Truck Series. However, he not only has potential, but Junior urged NASCAR to be “doing everything” to get him better.
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“He just needs to be racing more than he’s doing, and he needs to get more experience and get better. What happened to him at Daytona could happen to anyone, happened to me, could happen to anyone,” the 2x Daytona 500 winner said on his podcast.
Earnhardt’s comments suggest that he sees a promising racecar driver in Cleetus McFarland. Now, the 30-year-old also has the backing of a top team with a top program in RCR. The question is, will he deliver the results?
NASCAR Odds: Ryan Blaney, Denny Hamlin Favored at Phoenix
The NASCAR Cup Series circuit heads to Phoenix Raceway in Phoenix, Arizona on Sunday, March 8. The Straight Talk Wireless 500 is set for 312 laps and 312 miles around the 1.0-mile Arizona track.
Heading into the race weekend, Team Penske star Ryan Blaney and Joe Gibbs Racing veteran Denny Hamlin enter as the favorites to win by the odds makers.
Meanwhile, there’s a few longshots, such as RFK Racing driver Brad Keselowski, to watch for this Sunday.
Ryan Blaney, Denny Hamlin open as Phoenix favorites
In the opening odds provided by DraftKings Sportsbooks, Ryan Blaney and Denny Hamlin are the ones to watch. Both drivers have the best odds to win at +550 each.
Blaney has a phenomenal record at Phoenix in recent memory. The driver of the No. 12 took the checkered flag in last year’s season-finale race at Phoenix over Brad Keselowski.
On top of that, Blaney has posted eight top-five finishes in the last nine Phoenix races. Based on those statistics, it’s evident why the 2023 Cup Series champion is favored this weekend.
That same race Blaney won last year is the one Hamlin led a race-high 208 laps in his bid for his first championship. Unfortunately for the driver of the No. 11, his chances at the title were thwarted as Larson left with the crown.
Still, the 60-time Cup winner had the dominant car at Phoenix the last time around. In the last five races at Phoenix, the Virginia native has finished no worse than 11th.
Close behind Blaney and Hamlin in the odds is Kyle Larson and Christopher Bell, both at +650 to win. Larson has finished no worse than fourth in five of the last six Phoenix races. Yet, the driver of the No. 5 hasn’t won at Phoenix since November 2021.
Bell, meanwhile, won the last two spring races. While he doesn’t have as great of odds as Blaney and Hamlin, Bell is one to contend with this Sunday.
Brad Keselowski among key longshots for Phoenix
While this week’s favorites at Phoenix all make a great case, there’s a few underdogs to keep an eye on. One of those is Brad Keselowski, who enters at +2800 to win on Sunday.
In the last eight Phoenix races, Keselowski has only mustered two top-10 finishes. However, the driver of the No. 6 narrowly missed out on winning last year’s fall Phoenix event before placing runner-up to Ryan Blaney.
Another driver to watch on Sunday is Kyle Busch at +3000 to win. The driver of the No. 8 is on a nearly three-year winless drought. However, the Richard Childress Racing driver has two top-10 finishes in the last two Phoenix races.
Although Alex Bowman is a major longshot to win at +6500, the driver of the No. 48 has a respectable history at Phoenix. Bowman has posted two top-10 finishes in the last six Phoenix races and finished no worse than 20th in the rest of them.
Entering Sunday 36th in the points standings, Bowman will be seeking a bounce back weekend at Phoenix.
The Straight Talk Wireless 500 is scheduled to start at 3:30 p.m. Eastern time. The race can be watched on FS1 or listened to on the Motor Racing Network.
Ty Gibbs’ $79.61B NASCAR Partner Raises Eyebrows With Bold Carson Hocevar Buzz
“I just want the style of whatever it takes to succeed,” Carson Hocevar said in Atlanta. The Spire Motorsports driver has turned heads for his rowdy moves already in 2026. But in between his aggressive actions lies a burning desire to catch his first NASCAR Cup Series victory. As that glorious moment looks imminent with each passing weekend, a prominent sponsor affiliated with Ty Gibbs is looking to be a part of that moment.
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Carson Hocevar is wooing an energy drink brand
“@MonsterEnergy is in talks to sign an endorsement deal with Spire Motorsport driver @CarsonHocevar, per people familiar, a move that would align the company with one of the sport’s most talked about athletes. ➡️ Hocevar is represented by @MotorsportsMgmt,” journalist Adam Stern wrote on X.
Indeed, Monster Energy is negotiating with Carson Hocevar to start endorsing the energy drink brand as soon as this season. Although the exact financial terms could not be extracted, it could be huge with the $79.61 billion brand. Monster is primarily seen on paint schemes of the No. 54 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota, driven by Ty Gibbs, with whom the brand has partnered since 2019. Also, the No. 35 23XI Racing Toyota, wheeled by Riley Herbst, carries the brand’s logo.
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Now, Carson Hocevar is making big waves in the sport, causing Monster Energy to throw glances. The 23-year-old’s signature aggression can be a big bone of contention for his rivals. But it is also why he almost won the Daytona 500 last month before crashing out in an incident on the last lap. Hocevar is currently 10th in Cup Series points.
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The Monster deal could likely start out small before reaching larger dimensions. Carson Hocevar may sport the iconic green claw logo as patches on his helmet or the sleeves of his firesuit, before taking it to his No. 77 Chevrolet paint scheme. His current sponsors include Heat Wave Visual sunglasses, simulator rig maker Racing Cockpits, Pit Stop Diecast, and Williamsburg Contracting.
As Carson Hocevar attracts more eyes, he continues to pursue his first win. And a NASCAR veteran is certain that this is just the start.
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A major attraction for the sport
Some rivals may throw the meanest comments at Carson Hocevar. But those roll off the latter’s back like it was made of armor. Such is the undisrupted drive in the Spire Motorsports star, who is not afraid to make questionable moves to get what he wants. This is why people have referred to him as a modern-day Dale Earnhardt Sr. In his path to emulate the 76-time Cup race winning, 7-time champion, Hocevar may do a lot for NASCAR as well.
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That is what the Intimidator’s son, Dale Earnhardt Jr., believes. Given NASCAR’s record-low ratings in 2025, Carson Hocevar’s unique antics are like a breath of fresh air.
“I don’t want Hocevar to change, I don’t,” Dale Jr. said. “I want to win every race we enter, I do. I want JRM to win every damn race they enter. And I want all our guys to finish first, second, third, fourth, and fifth. But, above all that, I want this sport to be bigger than any other sport. And I want it to be watched by tens of millions of people every week.”
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“That’s where we need Hocevar. We need people like Hocevar, we need people like Connor Zilisch, we need people like Ross Chastain, we need people like Denny Hamlin — we need all these very great, awesome, different personalities. And we need to be celebrating that.”
This stamp of approval from the sport’s finest is another badge of honor for the young speedster. With a bright and happening future ahead, let’s see where Carson Hocevar takes us.
“They Would’ve Fired Us”- Former RCR VP Reveals ‘Illegal’ Hendrick Motorsports Alliance Owners Never Knew About
“Being able to go up against one of the all-time greats,” Jeff Gordon said in 2019, “changed my life forever.” These comments were about a 60-minute documentary exploring the intense rivalry between Gordon and Dale Earnhardt Sr. Their on-track competition was the stuff of dreams for NASCAR fans in the 1990s. But while the opposing racers from Hendrick Motorsports and Richard Childress Racing locked horns on track, their crew chiefs were up to a different agenda.
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A secret alliance that boosted Hendrick Motorsports
“They would have fired us on the spot,” Andy Petree, former Vice President of RCR, told Sirius XM NASCAR. “But it helped us both. Back then, they didn’t realise the benefit of having that kind of teamwork that we gained from it. The rivalry was still real – we were trying to beat each other on strategy on the track. But when it came to the cars and the setup, we were like an open book with each other.”
This mysterious alliance was between Andy Petree and none other than Ray Evernham, a former legendary crew chief at Hendrick Motorsports. Evernham worked with Jeff Gordon, while Petree worked with Dale Earnhardt Sr. The No. 3 RCR Chevrolet and the No. 24 HMS Chevy were neck-deep in competition for over 8 seasons, finishing in 1-2 positions 7 times. But as Petree said, this rivalry thrived because he shared notes in the background.
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“We were almost like teammates,” Petree continued. “We actually debriefed with each other at every race, in ’93, ’94, ’95. So every race, when I would do the post setup on the car, I would have Ray with me. He would have his stuff, I’d have mine, and we would talk about it, and we were very open.” He added, “We even had our own radio channel that I could flip over to. And we could talk to each other in a separate channel during the race.”
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Ray Evernham had previously revealed this radio channel to Dale Earnhardt Jr. In February 2024, the Hendrick Motorsports icon confessed on a Dale Jr Download episode. Evernham even admitted to building the shocks for the No. 3 car for an October 1994 race in Charlotte.
“I felt like we learned so much from each other that that’s what accelerated both of our careers,” Andy Petree said. “He’s using me because of the experience side of it. He was kind of new to Cup. I’m using him because of all the things he’s bringing, all the innovation, all the new thinking, all the things he was opening up.”
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The results were, as we know, brilliant. RCR secured the championships in 1993 and 1994, while Hendrick Motorsports won the title in 1995. That was the beginning of Rick Hendrick‘s championship streak in the NASCAR Cup Series.
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Rick Hendrick, thankfully, could not punish the secretly aligned crew chiefs. Now, he is addressing a new driver’s antics.
A candid discussion with the youngster
The 1990s were a golden era for Hendrick Motorsports. Standing in 2026, the team boasts big talents now as well. However, Rick Hendrick’s latest recruit brewed a storm over his on-track aggression. Corey Day, wheeling the No. 17 in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, had multiple run-ins with rivals like Ryan Seig, Carson Kvapil, and Connor Zilisch. And as NASCAR drivers questioned the 20-year-old’s antics, a proper discussion followed.
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Dale Earnhardt Jr., team owner of Connor Zilisch, admitted that JR Motorsports and HMS sat down with Corey Day.
“We all got together, and we all sat down. Rick [Hendrick] had a conversation with Corey, and we’re all trying to help him understand, ‘Look, man, we want you here. We believe in you, we believe you’re a winner. We want to see you succeed. But we have to do this without being detrimental to each other,” Dale Jr. said.
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“What Corey’s doing is nothing new. We’ve had teammate issues in the past; we will have them in the future. When you bring all of these young kids into the same building, they’re all on different paths, they are all eager to get that next opportunity.”
Clearly, Rick Hendrick is continuing his pursuit of excellence while straightening out the wrinkles. His former crew chief’s past alliance, however, may have laid the foundation for Hendrick Motorsports.
Monster Energy Eyeing Partnership With Rising NASCAR Star
Monster Energy could have its likeness on another NASCAR Cup Series car in the near future. The energy drink brand is already a primary sponsor of Cup Series drivers Ty Gibbs and Riley Herbst.
Yet, Monster Energy might be adding one more driver to that list. In a story released by Sports Business Journal on Wednesday, the drink brand is seeking a potential partnership with one of NASCAR’s rising stars.
Spire Motorsports driver could land Monster Energy sponsorship soon
Spire Motorsports driver Carson Hocevar could be looking at a potential deal with Monster Energy in the future. In an article by Adam Stern via Sports Business Journal, Monster Energy is “in talks” with the 23-year-old driver about a future partnership.
The deal for Hocevar and Monster Energy could begin sometime this season “according to four people familiar with the matter,” Stern wrote.
The motorsports insider added that the deal would start slow, but could eventually evolve into a larger partnership.
“The deal would likely start on the driver side with Hocevar, meaning it could include patches on his helmet or the sleeve of his fire suit but wouldn’t have a paint scheme or logo on Spire’s No. 77 Chevrolet that Hocevar drives,” Stern wrote.
Monster Energy, the official energy drink of NASCAR, has had various connections with the sport throughout the years. The drink brand formerly sponsored Kurt and Kyle Busch in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, a partnership that spanned from 2012-2015.
In 2017, the drink brand became the title sponsor of the Cup Series as the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series. The deal lasted until 2019 before the sport transitioned to no title sponsor, the NASCAR Cup Series, in 2020.
Today, Monster Energy is one of the primary sponsors for Joe Gibbs Racing driver Ty Gibbs and 23XI Racing driver Riley Herbst.
Hocevar is amid his third full-time season in the NASCAR Cup Series. The driver of the No. 77 has accumulated 16 top-10 finishes and four top fives in 84 career starts.
After three races in 2026, Hocevar currently sits 10th in the Cup Series points standings. He has a best finish of fourth at EchoPark Speedway and narrowly missed out won the Daytona 500, but spun out while leading on the final lap.
Carson Hocevar recently signed a long-term deal with Spire Motorsports
Prior to talks of a partnership with Monster Energy, Hocevar sealed a deal on his future in NASCAR. Last month, it was announced that the Michigan native signed a long-term deal with Spire Motorsports to keep him in the No. 77 machine into the next decade.
In the wake of the announcement on February 5, 2026, Hocevar expressed his enthusiasm in continuing his NASCAR Cup Series career with Spire Motorsports in a team statement.
“Everyone in the building, has really become a family to me. Spire is such a different team now compared to how it was my rookie season, and especially when I made my debut in 2023. It’s fun to know I’m going to be around the Cup garage for a long time, and really a dream come true,” Hocevar said.
In addition to the Cup deal, Hocevar will continue running select races in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series races for Spire Motorsports.
IndyCar Star Doubles Down on Controversial NASCAR Rant Despite Fans’ Disagreement
Crossover events are rarely devoid of drama. And the upcoming ‘Desert Double’ as promoted by FOX Sports has already stirred up debate. Phoenix Raceway will witness both the IndyCar Series and NASCAR this weekend, with IndyCar and the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series schedule on a single day. This amalgamation was not favorable for a particular IndyCar star – and he stuck to his comments despite protests from fans.
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No love lost for joint event with NASCAR
“NASCAR got an average viewership of 3.9 million for the Cup race at COTA (4.1 million last year). O’Reilly race got 1.07 million (1.1 million last year). Truck race at St. Pete got 1 million viewers — biggest number on the Fox network (not FS1) since 2018. IndyCar got 1.4 million at St. Pete (1.42 million last year),” journalist Jeff Gluck reported on X.
But Pato O’Ward simply shrugged at these stats and replied with a sarcastic comment. “I stand corrected, i’m so happy to be here with NASCAR this weekend🤝😆,” the IndyCar star wrote.
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The context for the Arrow McLaren driver’s ‘correction’ lies in his comments last week. Ahead of another NASCAR-IndyCar doubleheader that unfolded in St. Petersburg, Pato O’Ward said he is “already tired of IndyCar being like the support race.” He added that every time IndyCar pairs up with NASCAR, “we are always the side show. It’s great for the fans, but not for us.”
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In St. Petersburg, IndyCar dominated the weekend. Saturday’s Craftsman Truck Series race, the first street race in series history, saw multiple former IndyCar drivers take part and reign in storylines. The Indy NXT race was also not run until Sunday morning. But for Phoenix, while the Cup Series gets its own raceday, the IndyCar Series is sharing Saturday with the OAP Series.
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And floating a bunch of statistics, which reveal IndyCar’s lower ratings as compared to NASCAR, is not enough to convince Pato O’Ward. This weekend is not the first time the two series have shared a race day, doing so at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course in 2020. But, even back then, the IndyCar Series, at their home track, raced before the then Xfinity Series.
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Hence, Pato O’Ward’s concerns are somewhat valid. Nevertheless, the 26-year-old is coming off a career-best 2025 season, finishing second in the standings with six podiums. And he is looking forward to Phoenix for reasons beyond IndyCar.
A quick trip to a baseball match
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Before commencing race duties in Phoenix, Arrow McLaren made a pit stop in Scottsdale. Pato O’Ward and Daniel Suárez attended Wednesday’s exhibition matchup between Team Mexico and the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Mexican speedsters watched their national team take on the back-to-back World Series champions and also promoted the IndyCar-NASCAR race weekend in Avondale.
“Well, yeah, we have a race this weekend in Phoenix,” Pato O’Ward said in a video posted to the team’s X account. “And we’re here promoting it, so let’s go!”
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By stepping into the MLB spotlight, Arrow McLaren expanded its visibility to fans. The outreach to an audience beyond the traditional motorsports base upheld multi-sport crossovers. The appearance also highlighted the growing appeal of athletes like O’Ward and Suárez, who carry strong followings on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border.
Despite Pato O’Ward’s protests, the IndyCar-NASCAR crossover may be a thrilling event for fans. Let’s wait and see how it all unfolds in Phoenix.
Dodgers Superstar Shohei Ohtani Lands Stunning 2026 Prediction
The 2026 MLB season is right around the corner and for the Los Angeles Dodgers and superstar Shohei Ohtani, a chance to pursue a three-peat.
After winning each of the last two MLB championships, the Dodgers can become the first team to three-peat since the New York Yankees did it back in 1998, 1999, and 2000. On paper, they appear to have a good chance of accomplishing that goal.
Led by Ohtani, Los Angeles has the superstar power. The Dodgers were able to land outfielder Kyle Tucker this offseason in MLB free agency.
Along with Ohtani and Tucker, the Dodgers have Freddie Freeman, Mookie Betts, and an excellent supporting cast offensively. They are also stacked on the pitching side of the roster.
With that being said, Ohtani has landed a stunning prediction ahead of the 2026 season.
Dodgers Superstar Shohei Ohtani Receives Massive 2026 Prediction
Ohtani has already started trending towards the conversation of being the best in baseball history. He has also been one of the most interesting players in baseball history, becoming a superstar both at the plate and on the mound.
Ahead of the 2026 season, Ohtani has been given a head-turning prediction.
Alden Gonzalez of ESPN has predicted that Ohtani will finish the season as a top-five contender for both the NL Cy Young and MVP awards.
“At the plate, .980 OPS, 45 home runs, 20 stolen bases. On the mound: 2.65 ERA, 160 innings, 213 strikeouts,” Gonzalez wrote. “The result: a third-place finish in Cy Young and a fifth MVP.”
While Gonzalez does not have Ohtani winning either award, being a top-five contender for both would be an impressive accomplishment. Assuming he can stay healthy, there is no reason the 31-year-old superstar can’t reach these goals.
What to Expect from Shohei Ohtani This Season
During the 2025 season with the Dodgers, Ohtani played in 158 games. He hit 55 home runs to go along with 102 RBI, 20 stolen bases, and a slash line of .282/.392/.622.
On the mound, he made 14 starts after recovering from injury and compiled a 1-1 record to go along with a 2.87 ERA, a 1.04 WHIP, a 6.9 K/BB ratio, and 47 innings pitched.
It will be interesting to see what the 2026 has in store for Ohtani.
RotoWire has taken a shot at projecting his upcoming season. They have predicted Ohtani to hit 50 home runs, drive in 105 RBI, and steal 31 bases, while batting .296. They also predicted that he would go 9-4 on the mound with a 3.28 ERA, a 1.02 WHIP, and 161 strikeouts.
Only time will tell whether or not Ohtani can live up to the hype surrounding him. He has consistently been one of the best players in baseball throughout his career and no one should expect to see that change in 2026.
Rangers Ace Allows Home Run to MLB Legend’s Son in WBC Exhibition
Jacob deGrom said earlier in spring training that one thing that drove him nuts last season was giving up too many home runs.
He allowed 26 home runs last season, the most he gave up in any season since he allowed 28 home runs in 2017. So, when he took the mound on Wednesday in Surprise, Ariz., for his first spring training start of 2026 with the Texas Rangers, the last thing he wanted to give up was a home run.
But, the second batter he faced went yard. Team Brazil’s Lucas Ramirez hit a fastball out of the yard in the first inning to give them a 1-0 lead. The Rangers eventually won, 13-2, in a game that ended after seven innings.
Ramriez, oddly enough, is the son of former Major League slugger Manny Ramirez, who hit 555 home runs in a 19-year career that went from 1993-2011. So, deGrom never faced the slugger in his career.
Jacob deGrom on His Start
deGrom knows it is early in spring training, but the pitch that Ramirez hit fell into the mistake category.
“It is what it is,” he said to Rangers beat writers after the game. “I threw a fastball and it was just middle middle. So yeah, I feel like if I hit my spot there … the shape of everything was good. So, it’s just that I threw it right down the middle.”
Otherwise, he was happy with his outing. He allowed three hits in two innings, as he struck out three and walked none. He threw 39 pitches, with 27 strikes. Rangers manager Skip Schumaker said the goal was to get deGrom two innings, but he didn’t set a pitch count. He hasn’t committed to where deGrom will fit into the starting rotation or an opening day starter.
The Rangers gave the 37-year-old time to build up on the back fields at Surprise, a strategy they used last year. He said that earlier in his career he might have thrown one live batting practice or bullpen before throwing in his first spring game. Now, Texas gave him consistent bullpens, live batting practices and time in their pitching lab to build up properly and work on pitching shapes before his first game. It’s part of the reason he was able to throw nearly 40 pitches.
He hopes to get to four starts in Surprise and to be able to throw five innings or 85 pitches in his first regular season game.
“I’ve been feeling really good,” he said. “I felt like I could have kept going today. I think my last live I did 30-something pitches. So, you know I think the next jump will be, what? Probably 50 something or so, and then 60 something, 70 you know? So we’ll get to the number we want to get to.”
(Mostly) retired Kershaw relishing chance to don Stars and Stripes
On Wednesday at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick in Scottsdale, Ariz., Kershaw pitched in Team USA’s 14-4 exhibition win over the Rockies. And the Rockies aren’t shedding too many tears now that they’re no longer going to have to face him during the regular season.
After Kershaw threw two-thirds of an inning, Rockies TV broadcaster and former outfielder Ryan Spilborghs said what many Rockies players and fans were already thinking as he wrapped up his in-game interview with the likely future Hall of Famer.
And you can see why. Spilborghs faced no pitcher more often than Kershaw during his career with the Rockies from 2005-11, and he hit .167 (6-for-36) with 13 strikeouts in 42 plate appearances against him.
The Rockies as a team vs. Kershaw? A .231/.286/.351 slash line and 25% strikeout rate over 1,279 plate appearances. Oh, and he threw the only no-hitter of his career against them, back in 2014.
To be fair, there are a lot of players and teams around baseball who are glad they don’t have to face Kershaw again — those who aren’t playing in the WBC, anyway; players participating in the tournament might still have to contend with the legendary lefty.
Everything to know about top prospect Konnor Griffin
Konnor Griffin has taken the baseball world by storm.
MLB Pipeline’s No. 1 overall prospect, Griffin is a burgeoning star for the Pirates and has flashed the tools and production this spring that have put him on the cusp of the Majors.
Griffin already had a strong shot of making Pittsburgh’s Opening Day roster and his hot spring might make that a reality. According to MLB’s Sarah Langs, Griffin’s three home runs are the most by a teenager in a single MLB Spring Training in at least the last 20 years.
So, who is Konnor Griffin and how did the 19-year-old find himself in this position as MLB’s next superstar? Here’s everything you need to know about Griffin.
What is Griffin’s background?
Griffin was born in Jackson, Mississippi, and attended Jackson Preparatory School in Flowood, a suburb of Jackson. It’s there where Griffin became one of the most dynamic baseball players in the country, with his senior year culminating in the Gatorade Player of the Year award.
In his final high school season, Griffin was an electric two-way star, hitting .559 with nine home runs and 87 stolen bases as a hitter, while going 10-0 with a 0.72 ERA and 107 strikeouts in 67 2/3 innings as a pitcher. Griffin helped lead his school to a 39-4 record and their seventh consecutive MAIS Class 6A state title.
In addition to his high school heroics, Griffin was also part of USA’s 18-and-under national team for the 2023 World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) U-18 Baseball World Cup. He helped the United States to a fourth-place finish out of 12 teams. Griffin was also on USA’s 15-and-under club for the 2021 trials.
Griffin signed a letter of intent to play collegiately at Louisiana State University, a baseball powerhouse that has produced elite MLB talents like Paul Skenes and Alex Bregman in recent years, but his status as an elite Draft prospect meant he’d assuredly go directly into professional baseball.
How has Griffin’s prospect stock risen?
Heading into the 2024 Draft, Griffin was ranked as MLB Pipeline’s No. 9 prospect and the top prep player in the entire class. Pipeline gave Griffin a 60 grade on the 20-80 scouting scale and said he had “a big league frame at 6-foot-4 and 205 pounds and he possesses five-tool potential.” Griffin had the best raw tools in the Draft class, but concerns about his hit tool put him a tier below the top-end talents.
Griffin was ultimately selected ninth overall by the Pirates, this coming the year after Pittsburgh selected Paul Skenes first overall in the 2023 Draft. The Pirates shut down Griffin after being drafted, meaning we wouldn’t see him in his first pro action until 2025.
Entering the 2025 season, Griffin was ranked as Pipeline’s No. 43 prospect, but he quickly began his ascent up the ranks. Across three levels (he ended with Double-A Altoona), Griffin posted a .333/.415/.527 slash line in 122 games with 21 home runs and 65 stolen bases. Notably, Griffin was even better as he climbed the ladder, posting a .961 OPS in 21 Double-A games.
By season’s end, Griffin was Pipeline’s top prospect and he’s only reinforced that status with his dominant Spring Training in 2026.
What makes Griffin such an exciting prospect?
There is so much to like about Griffin, who is one of the best prospects in recent memory.
Heading into 2026, Pipeline gave him a 70 overall grade (out of 80), with a 60-or-better on all five of his tools. That includes a 70 on his speed and throwing arm, a 65 on his power and a 60 on his hit tool and defense.
When Griffin was drafted, there were questions about both his hit tool and where he’d play defensively. He has since answered those doubts with enormous improvements in both areas.
“The holes in his swing were closed thanks to some mechanical adjustments like his hand placement, allowing him to use his plus bat speed, strength and leverage to get to his plus-plus raw power fairly consistently,” Pipeline says about Griffin’s improved hit tool.
Griffin’s improvement defensively, too, has made him a surefire shortstop rather than someone who might move off the position.
“The original plan was for him to split time between shortstop and center field, but while many thought the outfield would be best long-term, his defense on the dirt was another area where he was even better than anticipated, with a hose of an arm,” says Pipeline.
Can Griffin make the Pirates’ Opening Day roster?
All evidence points to Griffin being ready for MLB action. Whether he makes the Opening Day roster or not should become more clear in the coming weeks.
For the Pirates, Griffin represents a dynamic superstar position player who can complement Skenes as faces of the franchise. Pirates hitters finished last in the Majors in runs, home runs and OPS last season, making Griffin’s arrival perfect timing. Even though the Pirates brought Ryan O’Hearn and Brandon Lowe aboard over the offseason, this is an offense that needs more thump and production, something that Griffin seems ready to provide.
Furthermore, the Pirates haven’t made the playoffs since 2015, the second-longest postseason drought in the Majors. The Pirates have made clear signs to push for a more competitive team this season. Keeping Griffin in the Majors for the duration of the season could help Pittsburgh end that playoff drought.
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What sort of history can Griffin make?
Courtesy of our own Sarah Langs, there are plenty of fun facts about the type of history Griffin could make if he cracks the Opening Day roster.
If Griffin starts Opening Day, he would be the:
First teenaged position player in an MLB game since 2018 Juan Soto
Youngest (19y 336d) to play on Opening Day since 1989 Ken Griffey Jr. (19y 133d)
First teenager to make MLB debut on Opening Day since 1989 Griffey
Griffin would be the 10th teen in at least the last 125 years to make his MLB debut starting on Opening Day, joining:
1989 Ken Griffey Jr.
1974 Robin Yount
1964 Tony Conigliaro
1963 Rusty Staub
1958 Vada Pinson
1951 Mickey Mantle
1944 Gene Mauch
1937 Bobby Doerr
1909 Stuffy McInnis
Additionally, if Griffin plays on Opening Day, he would be the youngest player to appear in a game for the Pirates since Aramis Ramirez, who debuted at 19 years and 335 days on May 26, 1998.
What else is there to know about Griffin?
It’s been a busy couple of years for Griffin, both on and off the baseball field.
In January, Griffin married his high school sweetheart and fiancée Dendy Hogan. Getting married and making your (likely) MLB debut in the same year is cool enough itself, not to mention the fact that Griffin could do much more than simply debut this season.
Beyond his skills on the baseball field and his recent marriage, Griffin also has the privilege of saying that he was featured on the popular ESPN segment
A’s willing to bring former MLB draft pick Kyler Murray after Cardinals exit
Could Kyler Murray change sports?
One MLB club certainly wouldn’t mind.
Murray, who is expected to be released by the Arizona Cardinals ahead of the new NFL year, was selected by the A’s as the No. 9 overall pick in the 2018 MLB Draft.
He eventually went back to Oklahoma, though, winning the Heisman Trophy and getting taken as the top overall pick in the NFL.
That all but ended his baseball-playing career.
But the A’s are keeping the door open as Murray is soon to be without an NFL team.
“Kyler is an elite NFL quarterback and I’m sure there are plenty of opportunities for him to continue his football career,” A’s general manager David Forst told MLB.com. “That said, he and his baseball representatives know that we’re always open to him exploring a return to baseball with the A’s if that time ever comes.”
Murray, an outfielder, signed a $4.6 million contract with the A’s after the 2018 draft, with the deal allowing him to play college football with the Sooners before coming to the baseball team the next year.
However, in February of ’19, Murray posted a statement to Twitter where he said he had changed his mind and he was going to pursue professional football.
“Moving forward, I am firmly and fully committing my life and time to becoming an NFL quarterback,” Murray wrote. “Football has been my love and passion my entire life. I was raised to play QB, and I very much look forward to dedicating 100% of myself to being the best QB possible and winning NFL championships.”
Murray played two seasons on Oklahoma’s baseball team, hitting .261/.381/.466 with 10 home runs and 53 RBIs.
Before the 2019 season, he ranked as the A’s No. 4 prospect on MLB Pipeline, with a 50/80 overall grade.
The A’s, meanwhile, have a young core of major leaguers — particularly in their lineup — that makes them a promising team in the American League West.
They inked All-Star shortstop Jacob Wilson and outfielder Tyler Soderstrom to seven-year extensions this offseason as they look to improve upon a 76-win 2025. Fangraphs projects the team to have a four-win improvement in 2026.
Murray said Tuesday after the news of his Arizona departure that he was “sorry” he “failed” the Cardinals. He finished his Arizona tenure with a 38-48-1 record, 20,460 passing yards and 3,193 rushing yards. He should still have plenty of suitors in the NFL, with the Jets potentially being one of them.
But if he wants to take a different swing path, the A’s are open and willing.
NBC names Jason Benetti as play-by-play announcer for MLB games
The new “Sunday Night Baseball” has its voice.
NBC Sports announced Wednesday that Jason Benetti will be the play-by-play announcer for the network’s new “Sunday Night Baseball” package on NBC and Peacock, something that had been widely expected for some time now.
His first game on-air for NBC this season will be on March 26, when the Dodgers host the Diamondbacks in an Opening Day battle.
Benetti will remain as the TV voice of the Tigers’ local broadcasts, and while on the air for “Sunday Night Baseball,” he will be paired with analysts who have connections to the teams playing in that day’s game.
“I am thrilled to be rejoining the NBC Sports family,” Benetti said in a statement. “Rick Cordella, Sam Flood and the whole team at NBC all have a deep appreciation for live sports. It’s a true honor to be part of the dawn of Sunday Night Baseball at NBC Sports. Each week is going to be a new, unique experience with analysts who all have different viewpoints on the game of baseball.”
This will be Benetti’s second go-around at NBC, having done play-by-play duty on NBC’s “MLB Sunday Leadoff” in 2022 on Peacock.
He also called baseball games during the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.
“After Jason finished the 2022 baseball season with us, we told him that if we ever got MLB back, he’d be our first call,” NBC Sports Executive Producer Sam Flood said in a statement. “Jason is one of the best play-by-play announcers in the business and we’re thrilled to have him back on a full-time basis with NBC Sports, beginning with Sunday Night Baseball.”
Front Office Sports reported Wednesday that Benetti had been released from his contract with Fox early in order to take the NBC gig.
NBC Sports has put together an all-star lineup, adding former MLB stars Joey Votto, Clayton Kershaw and Anthony Rizzo for its studio show.
Bob Costas will also contribute in an emeritus role as he winds down his broadcasting career.
Athletics GM Makes Feelings Clear on Kyler Murray MLB Return
The Arizona Cardinals have reportedly decided they will release quarterback Kyler Murray once the new NFL league year begins on March 11. With that decision looming, questions have started to swirl about whether the 28-year-old could consider a return to Major League Baseball.
Coming out of the University of Oklahoma, Murray was drafted by the Cardinals in the NFL, but he was also selected by the then-Oakland Athletics in the MLB Draft.
Murray went No. 1 overall to Arizona in April 2019, but he had already been taken No. 9 overall by the Athletics the year before.
However, Murray ultimately decided to forgo his MLB career, opting to sign a four-year, $35 million rookie deal with the Cardinals. In doing so, he forfeited the majority of the $4.66 million signing bonus he had received from the Athletics. He later signed a five-year, $230.5 million extension with the Cardinals in 2022.
With his release now approaching, though, Murray’s opportunities could be wide open — including a possible return to baseball with the Athletics, who still retain his MLB rights.
Athletics general manager David Forst says the door would remain open if Murray ever wanted to explore that path.
Athletics GM Leaves Door Open for Kyler Murray MLB Return
Forst didn’t necessarily mince words when asked about the possibility of Murray returning to baseball.
“Kyler is an elite NFL quarterback and I’m sure there are plenty of opportunities for him to continue his football career,” Forst said, per MLB.com’s Martín Gallegos. “That said, he and his baseball representatives know that we’re always open to him exploring a return to baseball with the A’s if that time ever comes.”
Murray’s baseball talent was never really in question.
In his final season playing outfield for the Sooners, he hit .296 with 10 home runs and 47 RBIs in 51 games. His athleticism and speed made him one of the most intriguing two-sport prospects in years.
Still, football always appeared to be the preferred path.
At Oklahoma, Murray won the Heisman Trophy, awarded annually to the best player in college football. He followed that up by winning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year during his first season with the Cardinals and eventually earned two Pro Bowl selections.
Given that résumé, it’s easy to understand why Murray chose football over baseball when the decision had to be made.
NFL Opportunities Likely Await Kyler Murray
Even with his release looming, Murray is expected to have interest from teams around the NFL.
Part of that appeal comes from his talent. The other factor is his contract situation.
The five-year, $230.5 million extension he signed with Arizona still has time remaining, and the Cardinals will be responsible for a large portion of that money. Murray is owed $38.8 million guaranteed for the 2026 season, which could allow another team to sign him to a more team-friendly deal.
Because of that dynamic, Murray could quickly emerge as one of the more intriguing quarterbacks on the market.
The Athletic recently listed five potential landing spots for the former Cardinals quarterback: the Atlanta Falcons, New York Jets, Minnesota Vikings, Miami Dolphins and Cleveland Browns.
If Murray ultimately lands with one of those teams — or another quarterback-needy franchise — it would likely signal that his football career still has plenty of chapters left.
And if that ends up being the case, the idea of Murray returning to baseball with the Athletics may remain more of a fascinating “what if” than a realistic possibility.
Christian Scott, A.J. Minter impress in first Mets spring outings
PORT ST. LUCIE — Christian Scott was the organization’s top pitching prospect when he made his MLB debut for the Mets in May 2024.
Less than three months later, he underwent Tommy John surgery.
And A.J. Minter was supposed to be a key piece of the Mets bullpen last season after signing a two-year, $22 million deal, but he made just 13 appearances before a lat injury led to season-ending surgery.
Both were back on the mound Wednesday, Scott in a 5-2 win over Team Israel at Clover Park and Minter in a minor league game on a back field.
And the results were encouraging, as Scott hit 96 mph in his 2 ²/₃ scoreless innings, walked none and struck out five in a performance the right-hander had envisioned “for a long time,” he said.
“Probably 18 months,” Scott said. “As soon as I got the surgery, I knew this was on the horizon. It was just about being consistent, keeping up day-to-day. I was thinking of this day for a long time.”
Regardless of how Scott does this spring, it seems likely he’ll open the season with Triple-A Syracuse, since the Mets don’t have any room in the rotation.
Still, Carlos Mendoza called the 48-pitch outing “pretty impressive.”
“It’s been a long road for him and it hasn’t been easy,’’ the manager said. “To go through the rehab process after he had a taste of [the majors] in 2024, when he was really good for us.”
Scott’s command stood out, in particular.
“He attacked,’’ Mendoza said. “One thing from him, he’s not gonna back down.”
Neither is Minter, whom the Mets believe can be an integral part of their new-look relief corps.
“The first one is always the hardest,’’ the lefty said of his return to the mound. “It was good to get back out there and I was happy with the results.”
Mendoza said before Minter’s outing that he could be back in late April or sometime in May.
“This is a guy that’s used to pitching high-leverage,’’ the manager said. “We saw it last year before he went down. With teams nowadays playing the matchups, you want a left-handed pitcher that can get righties and lefties [out].”
As for the rest of the bullpen, Mendoza said with Minter out, it’s not essential that the team carry two lefty relievers, thanks to the presence of newcomers Luke Weaver and Devin Williams.
“We’ve got guys that are platoon-neutral,’’ Mendoza said. “We’re gonna take what we feel is our best guys north with us.”
$1.8B MLB Franchise Offers Kyler Murray NFL Exit After Cardinals Release
Just as his NFL career hits a major roadblock, Kyler Murray has been thrown an unexpected lifeline from the sport he left behind. After the Cardinals made their plans known, a surprising top voice from a $1.8 billion MLB franchise has offered a new opportunity for Murray. Turns out, the signal caller could get a second shot at baseball, the very sport he ditched to play in the NFL.
“Kyler is an elite NFL quarterback, and I’m sure there are plenty of opportunities for him to continue his football career,” Oakland Athletics general manager David Forst said via reporter Ari Meirov’s post on X. “That said, he and his baseball representatives know that we’re always open to him exploring a return to baseball with the A’s if that time ever comes.”
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Forst’s statement comes in the wake of a confirmed divorce between the Cardinals and Kyler Murray. After a series of highs and lows throughout the tenure, the QB’s foot injury and the financial implications of his contract served as the last straw. The franchise that once viewed him as the franchise centerpiece is now ready to move on from him before the new league year begins, unless a trade materializes before then.
As Kyler gears up for free agency, the Oakland Athletics have made their intentions clear. For the record, Murray’s connection with baseball dates back to his time at Oklahoma. After transferring from Texas A&M in 2016, he initially served as a backup QB before developing a deep interest in baseball. He was an outfielder who played mostly in center field.
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His genuine talent for the sport caught the attention of the Athletics, who picked him in the first round of the 2018 MLB Draft. Despite his $4.66 million deal with the franchise, Murray ultimately chose football the following year. He entered the NFL as Arizona’s top pick in 2019. His actions led to serious consequences, as MLB placed him on its restricted list and forfeited the majority of his signing bonus. However, the Athletics retained his baseball rights.
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And now, they are willing to give him another chance after eight years. The Athletics are currently playing in Sacramento and will eventually move to their permanent home in Las Vegas. Adding a name like Murray to a group that includes young talents could be exciting, even if he starts in the minors. Murray’s comeback would be a low-risk, high-interest bet, but the final decision still rests with him. Meanwhile, the player released a statement after the news of his potential release came to light.
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Kyler Murray thanks Arizona fans in an emotional message
After months of speculation swirling around Kyler Murray’s future, Arizona has made up its mind. He won’t be part of the franchise anymore unless there’s a deal before the league year kicks off. On the financial side, his release has benefited the Cardinals immensely. He already has $36.8 million guaranteed for the 2026 season. Keeping him on the roster past March 16 would trigger another large contract guarantee.
Arizona would have to pay him $19.5 million in guarantees for the 2027 season. Releasing him before that deadline helps the Cardinals avoid long-term salary commitments. Also, the 28-year-old reportedly preferred to test the market rather than face uncertain situations with the Cardinals. After the developments, Murray took to X to thank everyone who remained by his side throughout the journey.
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“To everyone that supported me and showed kindness to my family and me during my time in AZ, from the bottom of my heart, thank you,” Murray wrote on Monday. “I wanted nothing more than to be the one to end the 77-year drought for this organization. I am sorry I failed us.”
“I wish this community and my brothers nothing but the best. I am no stranger to adversity; I am prepared for whatever’s next. I trust in God and my work ethic. I truly believe my best ball is in front of me, and I look forward to proving it. Godspeed.”
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During his seven seasons with Arizona, Murray delivered several productive seasons while his team had limited success. They made the postseason only once, in 2021. On a personal level, he earned two Pro Bowl selections. He also became one of just five players in NFL history to post over 20,000 passing yards and over 3,000 rushing yards within their first seven seasons.
However, Murray’s performances were marred by recurring injuries. After playing every game in 2019, 2020, and 2024, he missed time in several seasons. Most recently, he sustained a foot injury, which limited him to just five games last year. Reports suggest he has two primary destinations in mind. If the options don’t work out, the Athletics are holding out hope for his baseball debut.
MLB takes over Reds broadcasts from FanDuel Sports
Major League Baseball is taking over Cincinnati Reds broadcasts for the upcoming season.
The change comes as the Reds’ current broadcaster, FanDuel Sports, faces potential collapse.
The instability could also affect broadcasts for the NBA’s Cavaliers and the NHL’s Blue Jackets.
Major League Baseball is stepping in to take over production and distribution of all Cincinnati Reds broadcasts after the team announced FanDuel Sports, its current broadcaster, may be nearing collapse.
The move follows reports that FanDuel’s parent company has failed to pay multiple professional teams and could shut down, prompting MLB to assume full control of Reds game broadcasts beginning this season.
Doug Johnson, MLB’s senior vice president and executive producer for local media, did not immediately return and email seeking comment. And Michael Anderson, Reds public relations manager, did not immediately return a text seeking comment.
What we know
• MLB is taking over all Cincinnati Reds broadcasts beginning with the upcoming season.
• The Reds announced the change on Feb. 2, 2026, saying MLB will replace FanDuel Sports as the producer and distributor of games.
• FanDuel Sports’ parent company has reportedly failed to pay multiple pro teams and may be close to shutting down. Main Street Sports Group, which owns the FanDuel Sports Network, announced last month that it would lay off a half-dozen employees at its office at Great American Ballpark in connection with the closing of its facility. The layoffs are scheduled to begin April 14.
• Altafiber has begun negotiations with MLB to carry the new broadcasts for local viewers. Altafiber expects to share more details in the coming weeks as MLB transitions into the broadcast role.
• FanDuel instability could disrupt broadcasts for the Cavaliers (NBA) and Blue Jackets (NHL).
• NBA and NHL teams could lose local TV coverage entirely if FanDuel collapses.
What we don’t know
• Whether Altafiber and MLB will reach a final agreement, and the timeline for that agreement.
• How MLB plans to distribute Reds games locally − via cable, streaming, a new channel, or a combination.
• Whether Reds broadcasts will remain free or require a subscription under MLB control.
• If there will be any gaps or delays in Reds broadcast availability during the transition.
• What will happen to Cavaliers and Blue Jackets broadcasts if FanDuel collapses midseason.
• How long FanDuel Sports can remain operational before an official shutdown.
• Whether production quality, channel placement, or on‑air talent will change under MLB.
• How other providers may respond, since they face the same uncertainties.
Travis Kelce’s Next Career Move Could Come With Major Payday
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce is still mulling over his career options as the Pro Bowl pass-catcher decides between retiring or playing a 14th season.
Kelce has clearly lost a step on the field, but he’s still a solid option for the Chiefs in the passing game. The 36-year-old led the team with 76 catches, 851 yards, and five touchdowns, but he’s not the 1,000-yard threat he used to be.
If Kelce does return, he’ll be making significantly less than $17.125 million salary he had last season. Spotrac projects Kelce’s market value around $10.8 million per year.
While Kelce’s decision likely won’t come down to money, The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand recently reported he could make significantly more money in his post-football career as an NFL analyst, if he chooses.
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“Travis Kelce appears as if he will try to play another season before potentially trying broadcasting, where he would like to call games, but probably could pick up at least $15 million per year as a studio presence,” Marchand wrote.
Marchand also mentioned former Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin and college football analyst Kirk Herbstreit as other options who could compete with Kelce for top analyst roles.
There are two premier jobs that are coming open or about to come open — one at CBS on “NFL Today” (the network will be replacing Matt Ryan, who accepted the president of football position with the Atlanta Falcons), and one at NBC on “Football Night in America” (Tony Dungy was let go after 17 years).
Odell Beckham Jr. Speaks Out on Unfairness at Combine After Requesting Giants Return
The NFL Combine has commenced, with young players trying to make a name for themselves. While this year’s prospects chase their NFL dreams, one of the league’s biggest stars is questioning the legitimacy of the process itself. A decade after his own Combine performance, Odell Beckham Jr. believes the official stopwatches didn’t tell the whole story.
Beckham Jr. himself took part in the Combine in 2014, but somehow, he did not expect the results he got. According to him, the Combine is unfair when handing out the best metrics.
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“I still feel played 4.40 make corrections 4.31 = 4.43??” wrote Odell Beckham Jr. on Instagram stories. “Interesting. Shoutout to all the youngs doin they thing this week!”
The wide receiver posted on Instagram a clip from his Combine trial and a few of his amazing touchdowns. Later, he shared the post to his stories and added the caption on top of it.
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All the official documents have his 40-yard dash time recorded as 4.43 seconds. He finished seventh in the 40-yard dash that year, which earned him an overall 12th pick during the 2014 NFL Draft. Even the wide receiver was satisfied with his result at that time.
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“It was about where I wanted,” said Odell Beckham Jr. “I was hoping for 4.39, but I definitely won’t complain about it. Overall I felt it was really good. Everything went smooth, especially after getting that time in the 40. It gave me a good feeling going into the rest of the day. I did pretty good on everything else.”
However, some time later, he started to complain that he recorded a better time twice, but the Combine refrained from adding them. He still voices the same complaint, particularly after his latest post. Unfortunately, various sources claim that the 4.31 and the 4.40 seconds dashes were unofficial dashes. Therefore, the official record books could not include it.
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Despite the Super Bowl winner speaking about the unfairness of the Combine, he has also wished the young players the best of luck on his post. Surprisingly, these players may end up facing him in the upcoming season, considering the latest petitions.
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Odell Beckham Jr. could be heading towards a reunion with the New York Giants
Although Beckham Jr. is uninterested in his “4.43” score, it made the New York Giants draft him in the first round. He spent five seasons in New York, scoring touchdowns with athletic, reflexive receptions and lightning-speed dashes. In 2019, he was traded to the Cleveland Browns, but his love for the Giants is still pretty active today. Recently, he expressed his desire to play for the franchise once again. Following his admission, New York-based sports content creator Jojo Scarlotta has started a petition for the Giants to sign back the wide receiver.
Beckham Jr. is currently a free agent. Signing him will be beneficial in a lot of ways. He can act as a mentor to the young players, and he won’t cost much either. Moreover, he is familiar with the franchise and how they work. So, it won’t be a problem for him to settle. Scarlotta explained all these factors in a promotional video for his 500,000+ followers. The petition has already racked up 4,600 signatures, showcasing that fans are in favor of Beckham Jr. coming to the Giants. The wide receiver is also in favor of the post.
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“Y’all put the petition up to get me back to the Giants,” wrote Odell Beckham Jr.
In 59 games for the Giants, he made 390 receptions for 5,476 receiving yards and 44 touchdowns. He won the NFL Rookie of the Year award in 2014, while also making the PFWA All-Rookie Team. Besides that, he also had two All-Pro selections and Pro Bowl nods. Surprisingly, all that happened when he was a Giants player. Since his departure, the Giants have only had one postseason nod in seven years.
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On the other hand, Beckham Jr. hasn’t played a full season in six years, bouncing between four teams during that time due to injuries, a failed PED test, and a lack of consistency. Although 33 years old, the Pro Bowler still has the ability to change the outcome of a game with his electrifying play. It remains to be seen whether the “Bring Odell Home” movement manages to change the minds of the Giants’ executives, or if getting traction is the most it will achieve.
Steelers Draft Target ‘Bombed’ Combine Interviews: Report
It’s still a guessing game as to what the Pittsburgh Steelers will do once the 2026 NFL Draft arrives on April 23. But most in Steel City are hoping it leans toward the offense.
In just about every mock draft you look at, the Steelers are projected to take an offensive player. Some lean toward Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, whether Aaron Rodgers returns or not.
Others point to another glaring need on offense: wide receiver.
That’s where Pittsburgh has been tied to multiple names — Washington’s Denzel Boston, Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson or USC’s Makai Lemon. It seems to change with every mock draft.
One of the favorites among Steelers fans has been Lemon, who is coming off an impressive season with the Trojans, tallying 1,156 yards and 13 touchdowns. However, after hearing rumblings about how his interviews with teams went at the NFL Scouting Combine over the weekend, there may need to be a pause on the wideout.
Makai Lemon’s Combine Interviews Raise Questions
Lemon first started making headlines at the combine during his meeting with the media. The former USC receiver’s demeanor came off odd, with his intense staring at cameras quickly going viral.
That apparently was just the beginning.
Things were said to get much worse when Lemon met with teams for interviews.
“I talked to a scout just now who said he didn’t know what Makai Lemon’s motive was behind his combine interviews but whoever advised the kid needs to be fired. ‘Absolutely bombed it’ word for word,” Breiden Fehoko said.
Chris Nimbley echoed that report, saying, “Nothing concrete as to what exactly the issues were, but all who spoke with Chris agreed that Lemon did not come across well.”
NFL Draft insider Robinson L. Whittmore added that four teams have reportedly taken Lemon off their draft boards, though those teams were not disclosed.
Would the Steelers Still Consider Drafting USC’s Makai Lemon?
If these rumors prove true and teams are turned off by Lemon, his draft stock will almost certainly drop. The question is how far?
NFL analyst Jack Sperry believes it could work in Pittsburgh’s favor.
“If true, this could increase the chances of Pittsburgh having the opportunity to land Lemon in Round 1,” Sperry said. “However, if he’s representing himself that poorly in interviews, he may have a high chance of being the next ‘diva’ personality in their WR room.”
The Steelers know all too well about wide receiver drama. Antonio Brown, Diontae Johnson, Martavis Bryant and, more recently, George Pickens — who was traded to the Dallas Cowboys last year — are not forgotten in Pittsburgh.
That said, those situations unfolded under the previous regime led by Mike Tomlin for 19 seasons. It’s Mike McCarthy’s show now.
For what it’s worth, despite the criticism coming out of the combine, Lemon reportedly performed well in the workouts he participated in. And according to CBS Sports’ JP Acosta, “He’s still a Round 1 lock and could go higher than people think.”
So while the interview buzz may have raised eyebrows, Lemon’s on-field evaluation hasn’t completely shifted — at least not yet.
2026 NFL Combine Day 4 Winners & Losers: Iowa’s Logan Jones Rises, Alabama’s Kadyn Proctor Slides
Day four of the 2026 NFL Combine wrapped up with the big guys getting their chance to prove themselves to scouts for all 32 NFL teams. The offensive guards, centers, and tackles were the positions to work out on Sunday.
The best place to build an NFL roster is through the trenches. Offensive linemen have the most important job in football, and are often overlooked. They are also some of the most athletic guys on the field despite their size.
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Day four of the combine displayed the future of the offensive line in the NFL. Who performed the best?
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Winner: C Logan Jones, Iowa
Iowa center Logan Jones logged the fastest time of all offensive linemen on Sunday, running a 4.90 official. That wasn’t it for the former Iowa Hawkeye. He recorded the second-best times in both the three-cone drill (7.46) and the 20-yard shuttle (4.59).
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Jones measured at 6-foot-3, 302 lbs. While not the biggest guy at the combine, his impressive size and speed make him a notable draft target. Jones could have an immediate impact as a run blocker.
Jones was a projected late day two, early day three pick, but his impressive showing at the combine may have solidified his spot within the first three rounds.
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40-Yard Dash: 4.90 seconds
10-Yard Split: 1.75 seconds
Vertical Jump: 32.0″
Broad Jump: 9’2″
3-Cone Drill: 7.46 seconds
20-yard Shuttle: 4.59 seconds
Loser: C Sam Hecht, Kansas State
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While one center was able to boost his stock on Sunday, Kansas State center Sam Hecht didn’t get that luxury.
Hecht is projected to be one of the first centers off the board, but he struggled at the combine. Hecht had a solid showing in the 40-yard dash, running the fifth fastest time with a 4.71, but fell short in his other testing.
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Hecht’s explosiveness was put to the test with his poor testing in his jumps. He had the second-worst broad jump (8’5″) of all offensive linemen, and the sixth-worst vertical jump (28.0″).
Hecht will still be one of the first centers off the board and even put together strong performances in other drills, but his lack of explosiveness will raise some eyebrows.
40-Yard Dash: 5.10 seconds
10-Yard Split: 1.73 seconds
Vertical Jump: 28.0″
Broad Jump: 8’5″
3-Cone Drill: 7.75 seconds
20-yard Shuttle: 4.71 seconds
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Winner: OG Chase Bisontis, Texas A&M
Texas A&M guard Chase Bisontis is a projected day two pick, but recent hype and a strong combine performance may see him slide into early second-round and possible first-round consideration.
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Bisontis wasn’t the best at any of the drills, but finished with the fourth-best three-cone time. Despite not ranking at the top of many of the drills, the Texas A&M guard was consistently towards the top or middle among all offensive linemen in testing.
A strong and consistent day by Bisontis guaranteed his name to be called on day two of the NFL Draft, and possibly a chance at the top-50.
40-Yard Dash: 5.02 seconds
10-Yard Split: 1.76 seconds
Vertical Jump: 32.0″
Broad Jump: 8’9″
3-Cone Drill: 7.53 seconds
20-yard Shuttle: 4.78 seconds
Loser: OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
Alabama tackle Kadyn Proctor is projected to be a first-round pick in April, but he struggled at the combine on Sunday.
Proctor finished with the seventh-worst 40-yard dash, the sixth-worst 10-yard split, and didn’t test for the three-cone drill or the 20-yard shuttle. However, he is one of the bigger offensive linemen at the combine, measuring at 6-foot-7 and 352 lbs, but he likely would’ve liked to test better.
Proctor measured well at the combine, with 33 3/8 inch arms, but his poor testing isn’t what he aimed for. The Alabama tackle will still get drafted high, likely in the first round, but could’ve looked better on Sunday.
40-Yard Dash: 5.21 seconds
10-Yard Split: 1.84 seconds
Vertical Jump: 32.5″
Broad Jump: 9’1″
3-Cone Drill: N/A
20-yard Shuttle: N/A
Winner: OT Max Iheanachor, Arizona State
Max Iheanachor has been rising draft boards with teams infatuated with his athletic ability. With Iheanachor being a mostly raw talent, the combine was going to be big for him.
And he delivered. Iheanachor had the third-best 40-yard dash, the fourth-best 10-yard split, and the third-best broad jump. The Arizona State tackle practically placed at the top of every drill, with his only lackluster performance being in the vertical jump. He didn’t test in the 3-cone drill or the 20-yard shuttle, but that won’t hurt his stock.
Iheanachor was already climbing up draft boards. Teams are aware he’s a developmental player, but his promising combine performance makes him an intriguing target on day two, and a potential sneaky first-round selection.
Lions Trade Pitch Flips Amon-Ra St. Brown, Pick for Myles Garrett
The Detroit Lions want a pass-rusher to pair alongside Aidan Hutchinson, as adding such a player could immediately vault them back into Super Bowl contention in 2026, but any such acquisition is going to cost — big.
The MLFootball X account on Sunday, March 1 floated a trade proposal swapping star wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and a third-round pick for Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns.
“WHO SAYS NO…?” the caption said. “The #Lions trade Amon-Ra St. Brown and a pick for #Browns superstar pass rusher Myles Garrett. Detroit pairs Garrett with Aidan Hutchison, giving them the best pass duo in the last 25 years. Cleveland finally receives the WR1 they have been searching for.”
As great as St. Brown has been over his five years in the NFL (four consecutive Pro Bowls and three straight All-Pro selections), Garrett is the absolute best edge-rusher in the league, which is an even more premium position than wide receiver — probably second only to quarterback.
Because of that, the Browns most likely would not entertain such an offer. However, if the Lions were to include the No. 17 pick in April’s draft alongside Brown, who will play next season at just 27 years old, the conversation might become real.
Lions’ Offense Could Still Be Elite Without Amon-Ra St. Brown
From Detroit’s perspective, they have a good enough offense to potentially remain in the top 10 even without St. Brown.
The Lions finished fifth in the league in total offense in 2025 at 373.2 yards per contest, while quarterback Jared Goff ended the campaign as the 12th-ranked quarterback in the league, per Pro Football Focus.
Jahmyr Gibbs is arguably the best running back in football, and certainly among the top five at his position, heading into just his fourth season. Tight end Sam LaPorta, like Gibbs, is extension-eligible this offseason and poised for a return to the All-Pro status he achieved as a rookie if he can return fully healthy from a back injury in 2026.
If the Lions were to trade St. Brown, the offense would still have Jameson Williams and Isaac Teslaa as the top two option in the wide receivers room. The 2026 draft class is also loaded with receiver talent, and while four WRs are projected to go in the first round, there should still be talent available at No. 50 in Round 2 if Detroit was so inclined.
Lions Reportedly Interested in Trade for Raiders DE Maxx Crosby
The Lions were reportedly interested in an aggressive trade pursuit of Las Vegas Raiders edge-rusher Maxx Crosby as recently as during the NFL Combine.
“According to many in league circles, Detroit general manager Brad Holmes was more than willing to be aggressive to meet the trade demands of the Las Vegas Raiders, which included parting ways with two-first round draft picks,” John Maakaron of ON SI wrote. “Detroit’s entire coaching staff and front office were in agreement that adding Crosby would have been a move that would instantly put the team in serious contention to win the Super Bowl.”
Detroit’s interest in Crosby was significant, even despite the asking price of two first-round picks. But assuming the Lions were willing to part with two firsts for Crosby, dealing St. Brown and one first for a considerably better and more accomplished player in Garrett tracks.
Four trade candidates to watch out for before NFL free agency
While all eyes in the football world were on the field at the NFL Scouting Combine, behind closed doors, team officials were having more than just interviews with potential draftees. They were chatting with potential trade partners as general managers across the league prepare to negotiate millions of dollars when free agency begins on March 11th.
With some of the trade chatter bubbling to the surface, and even one player-for-player trade made between the Tennessee Titans and New York Jets, here are four players that could be on the move.
New York Giants OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux
The fifth overall pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, the Giants’ edge-rusher has been good, but not great. In four years in the league, Thibodeaux has had just one double-digit sack season — 11.5 sacks in 2023. And while general manager Joe Schoen has said he wants to keep the 25-year-old in New York, he hasn’t ruled out taking calls from other general managers about his trade status.
According to ESPN reporter Jordan Raanan, Thibodeaux would be worth a late Day 2 or early Day 3 draft pick, or could be part of a player-for-player swap. It’s clear there’s interest in a trade, but how intrigued the Giants are depends on how redundant they feel Thibodeaux is between edge rushers Brian Burns and Abdul Carter.
Philadelphia Eagles WR A.J. Brown
The 28-year-old has just one year of guaranteed money left on his three-year, $96M deal, but the reason Brown’s name is popping up in the rumor mill has to do with his very public frustrations with his role in the Eagles offense.
While it may be a case of both sides needing a fresh start, Brown still recorded 1,000 receiving yards last season, and General Manager Howie Roseman would rather work something out with the talented receiver. With a reported asking price of a first- and second-round pick, Roseman may scare off most teams looking to trade.
Arizona Cardinals QB Kyler Murray
The 28-year-old has not lived up to the billing of a franchise quarterback for the Cardinals since being drafted first overall in 2019. Now, Murray is a likely cut candidate, so the team can try to salvage his five-year, $230.5M deal.
However, a team in desperate need of a quarterback might do something desperate to secure Murray ahead of free agency. The dual-threat quarterback could still be capable, despite several season-damaging injuries throughout his career, or at least a team will convince themselves that they could make Murray the next quarterback reclamation project who wins the Super Bowl.
Miami Dolphins WR Jaylen Waddle
Last season, Waddle was in the mix of trade rumors as the Dolphins struggled to stay in playoff contention. But the 27-year-old has shown himself to be a reliable receiver, and with Miami cutting Tyreek Hill, they may not want to part with Waddle.
Kylie Kelce Shares Rare Insight Into Raising Children With Jason Kelce
Kylie Kelce offered rare insight into her family life with husband, Jason Kelce, as the pair raise four daughters together.
During an appearance in Jennifer Garner’s Instagram video series “Naptime Cook Club,” shared by the actress on Sunday, March 1, Kylie, 33, was quizzed by Garner, 53, about how she copes day-to-day with “so many” children.
“Yeah, they just keep multiplying,” joked Kylie, who was dressed casually in denim jeans and a gray T-shirt. Garner, whose lighthearted social media series offers simple meal ideas for parents to prepare at home while their “kid is down for a nap,” then asked whether Kylie had any children of her own who still took a daily nap.
“We still have one napper,” Kylie said, pinpointing her youngest child, Finnley, 11 months. Kylie and Jason, 38, also share Bennett, 2, Elliotte, 4, and Wyatt, 5.
A surprised Garner then confirmed with Kylie, “Your two-year-old doesn’t nap?” to which the “Not Gonna Lie” podcast host replied, “No, she’s busy. She’s got things to do.”
Kylie also joked about her kitchen skills, revealing that she isn’t entirely polished with a knife in hand. “I watch so many cooking shows, including yours [Garner’s], that I am afraid that someone will see me with a knife,” Kylie said.
As the cooking tutorial continued, Garner noted that parents may like to get up in the morning and marinade meat for extended periods of time if they have their “act together,” which drew another humorous response from Kylie.
“I’ve never felt that in my whole life [but] go on, hypothetically,” she quipped before discussing the challenges she’s faced due to Wyatt’s fussy eating habits.
“I have one child who will, actually that’s a lie, two because one can’t talk, two children who will voluntarily eat something that is green,” Kylie began. “Our toughest eater was our oldest. Once Upon a Farm pouches were great because they are not a green color. They’re beautiful colors. I tried to explain to her, like, ‘You ate veggies. You used to’ and she’s like, ‘No I didn’t.’ I’m like, ‘No, I watched it, I actually bought it.’
While Kylie had previously kept her personal and family life out of the spotlight for the most part, her “Not Gonna Lie” interviews are allowing more frequent peeks into non-professional elements of her day-to-day activities and headspace.
During the February 12 episode, she even shared that she hoped to undergo breast augmentation surgery one day. “Really, my plan is, we’re gonna end up doing this,” Kylie said to a former college roommate during the show. “To be clear, there is a rough plan that eventually I will put my boobs back where they belong. Because four kids. That’s all I have to say about that.”
Kylie, who gave birth to Finnley in March 2025, continued at the time, “I’m gonna wait until they settle because if I did [a reveal] fresh out of surgery, [my friend] would be like, ‘I don’t know why they’re at your neck.’”
Bills QB Josh Allen Gets Encouraging News During NFL Offseason
Josh Allen is the heart and soul of the Buffalo Bills, and he’s helped shape the franchise since the Bills drafted him in the first round of the 2018 NFL draft as the seventh overall pick.
Since then, Allen has won MVP, but he hasn’t taken the Bills to a Super Bowl. Hopefully that will change for the 2026-27 season, but either way, Allen is going to need more depth in the quarterback position in case he gets injured.
Quarterback depth is often underrated, but it can make or break a team, especially if their franchise quarterback is out for an extended period of time. Now, the Buffalo Bills are being projected to take a rising quarterback in the 2026 NFL draft to provide insurance behind Allen.
Buffalo Bills News: Team Could Land Josh Allen Assurance in the 2026 NFL Draft
In a Saturday, February 28, feature for USA Today, Jacob Camenker names his top 2026 NFL draft picks for specifically the quarterback position. As for the Buffalo Bills, he points to Luke Altmyer out of Illinois, projecting that the team will snag him as the No. 220 overall pick in the seventh round of the draft.
“Josh Allen’s backup, Mitch Trubisky, is set to be a free agent in 2026,” he notes in the feature. “If he doesn’t return, the Bills could add another quarterback to their depth chart to jockey with Shane Buechele for position behind Allen.”
Camenker adds, “Altmyer was a three-year starter at Illinois who lacks elite traits but was steady in Bret Bielema’s pro-style offense. The 6-1, 210-pound quarterback completed 67.4% of his passes for 3,007 yards, 22 touchdowns and five interceptions in his final college season.”
In the NFL’s profile of the player states that he has leadership skills, since he was a three-year starter and the team captain.
“Three-year starter with solid passing production relative to the lack of protection he saw in 2025,” the NFL states in their official profile of him. “Altmyer has experience in pro passing concepts and shows decent eye discipline/patience to give the play a chance. He throws with adequate anticipation into zone windows but a slower operation time and lack of arm talent hurt his chances of beating tight man coverage.”
They add, however, that “edge pressure sneaks up on him” and that “he hasn’t learned to avoid sacks often enough.” Plus, “Altmyer could have a tough time beating out pro backups for a roster spot.” So, it’s a mixed bag with him, but Camenker sees this as a good fit.
Rising Quarterback is a ‘Great Touch Passer,’ According to NFL Expert
Trevor Sikkema of the PFF says of him that he’s “a great touch passer, especially versus press-man coverage on vertical routes to the outside. Though he had a higher sack rate due to a lack of twitch and athleticism, he is not afraid to stand in the pocket and scan the field if the situation presents itself and won’t bail after a few seconds out of panic.”
Sikkema adds that he’s “comfortable throwing inside and outside the numbers and is a good rhythm and timing passer on in-breaking routes.” On a negative note, “he lacks the arm to consistently push the ball into tight coverage toward the sideline versus zone.”
Steelers Expecting to Lose Key Playmaker in 2026 Offseason: Report
General manager Omar Khan of the Pittsburgh Steelers told reporters at the NFL combine the team wants to re-sign free agent running back Kenneth Gainwell. But with a week to go until the league’s legal tampering period begins, that doesn’t appear likely to happen.
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s Gerry Dulac reported over the weekend the Steelers are preparing for Gainwell to depart in free agency. The team also doesn’t see retaining free agent guard Isaac Seumalo as highly likely either.
“The Steelers are expecting running back Kenneth Gainwell, who led the team in receptions and was voted team MVP, and possibly veteran guard Isaac Seumalo to explore the possibility of signing elsewhere during the free-agent period,” wrote Dulac.
“Like Justin Fields did a year ago, they intend to test the market to see what offers might be out there. It doesn’t mean the Steelers don’t want them back. It just comes down to price.”
Gainwell is also coming off the best season of his career and will turn 27 in March. This offseason is the time for him to land a big deal.
In 2025, Gainwell ran for a career-high 537 yards while averaging a career-best 4.7 yards per attempt. As Dulac indicated, he led the Steelers with 73 receptions as well.
Gainwell’s 1,023 yards from scrimmage were almost double what he’s posted in any other season in his career.
Kenneth Gainwell Expected to Test Free Agent Market
It’s not at all surprising Gainwell wants to test the market. He’s made $5.6 million in his NFL career, which is obviously a great sum for the average person. But it isn’t for an NFL player.
However, that’s a bad sign for the Steelers re-signing Gainwell. Typically, free agents that test the market don’t come back to their former teams.
That doesn’t always happen. But it often does.
Clearly, the Steelers prefer to bring back Gainwell. It’s a smart move given that he had more catches than every single Pittsburgh receiver last year.
But it sounds like the Steelers have a limit in what they want to pay him.
Last season, Gainwell made $1.17 million on a 1-year contract with Pittsburgh. Spotrac projected the running back’s free agent value to be $5.9 million on a 2-year deal.
The Athletic’s Daniel Popper had a slightly higher projection — a 2-year, $10 million contract for Gainwell this offseason.
Steelers to Lose Isaac Seumalo in 2026 NFL Free Agency?
Given Gainwell’s significant role in the Steelers offense last season, he probably has a better chance of returning to Pittsburgh than Seumalo. If the Steelers don’t make Gainwell a priority, they are probably going to lose the left guard as well.
Seumalo joined the Steelers as a free agent three years ago. In three seasons, he started 44 games for Pittsburgh. During 2024, he made his first Pro Bowl.
Seumalo is the most experienced starter on the Steelers young offensive line. But that line has gained valuable experience over the past two years. The other four starters are all still on rookie deals and growing together.
That makes Seumalo expendable. The Steelers could draft another potential starting interior line to add to their developing offensive front. Or, they could sign a cheaper veteran to complement the unit’s young pieces.
Seahawks Predicted to Lose Edge Rusher Boye Mafe to NFC Foe
The Seattle Seahawks have quite a bit of cap space for a defending Super Bowl champion. That should help the Seahawks re-sign a lot of their key free agents this offseason. But edge rusher Boye Mafe might be one unrestricted free agent who gets away.
That’s what ESPN’s Aaron Schatz predicted over the weekend. Tasked with naming one free agent who will sign with each team, Schatz argued Mafe will sign with the Philadelphia Eagles.
“The Eagles could use more help on the edge to rotate with Nolan Smith Jr. and Jalyx Hunt, and Mafe had an outstanding season for the Super Bowl champions in 2025,” wrote Schatz.
“Although Mafe had only two sacks, he added 33 pressures. His 18.7% pass rush win rate was eighth among edge rushers and his 11.4% pressure rate was 17th. Mafe is quick and still in his prime, turning 28 in late November.”
In 17 games during the 2025 regular season, Mafe posted 31 combined tackles, including four tackle for loss. He also had five pass defenses, four quarterback hits, two sacks and one forced fumble.
Spotrac projected Mafe’s market value to be about $36.7 million on a 3-year contract this offseason.
Why Seahawks Might Not Make Boye Mafe a Free Agency Priority
As Schatz indicated, Mafe posted strong analytics. But the writing was on the wall during the season that his future probably wouldn’t be in Seattle.
Two years ago, Mafe started every contest he played for the Seahawks. Last season, his starts dropped to 11 in 15 contests. Then this past season, he started just four games.
In 2025, Mafe didn’t start again after Week 5.
As expected, his playing time dropped too. Mafe played just 50% of Seattle’s defensive snaps in 2025, which was his lowest percentage since 2022. He played more snaps during 2024 than 2025 despite playing in two fewer games.
Seattle’s strength at edge rusher was in its numbers, not with one star leading the way. Losing Mafe will hurt because he was a key member of the defense’s pass rush rotation.
But with fellow outside linebackers DeMarcus Lawrence, Uchenna Nwosu and Derick Hall under contract for next season, the Seahawks can afford to lose Mafe. Defensive end Leonard Williams is set to be back in 2026 for Seattle as well.
Over four seasons, Mafe registered 164 combined tackles, including 24 tackles for loss for Seattle. He also had 20 sacks and 14 pass defenses in 65 games.
Teravainen scores twice, Soderblom makes 22 saves in Blackhawks’ 4
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Teuvo Teravainen scored twice, Arvid Soderblom made 22 saves for his first NHL shutout and the Chicago Blackhawks beat the Utah Mammoth 4-0 on Sunday to end a three-game losing streak.
Nick Foligo, and Landon Slaggert also scored to help the Blackhawks win for just their second win in 10 games. Chicago had allowed at least three goals in eight straight games.
Karel Vejmelka stopped 24 shots for Utah. The Mammoth were shut out for the first time at home this season and the fifth time overall.
Teravainen opened the scoring on a power play with 55 seconds left in the first period. He controlled the puck off a blocked shot and snapped it around Vejmelka’s side.
Foligo had an unassisted goal with 8:22 remaining in the second. He caught Vejmelka out of position and put a backhander between the goalie and a defender.
Landon Slaggert snapped the puck in from 40 feet away with 6:53 left in the second, and Teravainen had a short-handed goal 1:25 into the third.
Up next
Blackhawks: At Winnipeg on Tuesday night.
Mammoth: At Washington on Tuesday night.
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Soderblom makes 22 saves for 1st NHL shutout, Blackhawks defeat Mammoth
Soderblom was playing for the first time since Jan. 29, a 6-2 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins. The shutout came in his 104th NHL game.
Teuvo Teravainen, who helped Team Finland win the bronze medal at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, scored a power-play goal and a short-handed goal for the Blackhawks (23-28-9), who ended a three-game losing streak. Nick Foligno and Landon Slaggert also scored.
Karel Vejmelka made 24 saves for the Mammoth (31-25-4), who have lost two of their three games since returning from the Olympic break.
Teravainen gave the Blackhawks a 1-0 lead with a power-play goal at 19:06 of the first period, collecting a rebound and beating Vejmelka on the blocker side.
Foligno scored his 250th NHL goal at 11:38 of the second period, picking up a loose puck in front of the net and beating Vejmelka with a backhand deke to extend the lead to 2-0.
Slaggert scored just 1:29 later at 13:07, firing a wrist shot from the slot that went off the glove of Vejmelka and into the net to make it 3-0.
Teravainen scored short-handed at 1:25 of the third period, sending a wrist shot past Vejmelka for the 4-0 final.
On the road with the Sabres this season
Buffalo News reporter Rachel Lenzi heads to the Buffalo Sabres morning skate at TD Garden in Boston on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025.
The Buffall Sabres lost 6-3 Nov. 8 at Carolina. Here’s a look at the pregame scene at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C.
The Montreal Canadiens pay tribute to their legends outside the Bell Centre in Montreal on Monday, Oct. 20, 2025.
Toronto’s fans came to Buffalo in force, on a night when the Maple Leafs played the Sabres and the Blue Jays faced the Los Angeles Dodgers in …
The Toronto Maple Leafs take the ice at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto before a game against the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025
The Buffalo Sabres practiced Nov. 11 at the Utah Mammoth’s new headquarters and training facility in Sandy, Utah.
The Buffalo Sabres played the Utah Mammoth at the Delta Center on Nov. 12 in Salt Lake City.
The Buffalo Sabres continued a four-game road trip Thursday against the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena in Denver.
The pregame scene at Pittsburgh’s PPG Paints Arena
A video projection system gives the backdrop to the warmup sessions for the Sabres and Winnipeg Jets in Canada Life Centre on Dec. 5, 2025.
The Calgary Flames held their
Even Erik Karlsson is poking fun at the struggling Toronto Maple Leafs
The rest of the hockey world tends to have fun with the Toronto Maple Leafs’ struggles, so the 2025-26 season — particularly the last three games — has provided plenty of fodder, and on Sunday, it was a fellow NHL player who took a playful shot at them.
After Paul Bissonnette — a noted Maple Leafs fan — and the rest of the NHL on TNT crew said pregame that Pittsburgh could be in trouble in its afternoon affair against Vegas, the Penguins turned the tables, stomping the Golden Knights 5-0.
Their postgame interview guest was Erik Karlsson, who let Bissonnette know he heard what he said before taking a jab at the free-falling Maple Leafs and urging him to jump on the Penguins train.
Karlsson said:
Oilers Officially Give Up on Mangiapane
The Edmonton Oilers made a critical administrative move that shows the team has officially given up on Andrew Mangiapane.
The team on Sunday placed the 29-year-old on waivers. The purpose of this move is, more than anything, clearing a roster spot and finding some cap relief.
Mangiapane has been the subject of Oilers rumors for the better part of this season. His disappointing seven goals and 14 points in 52 games have made this offseason signing a major bust for Edmonton.
The club has been trying actively to trade Mangiapane, even with the Toronto native willing to waive his no-trade clause to make a deal work. However, it seems that no takers have emerged.
Some reports suggested that the Oilers had a 1-for-1 deal with the Maple Leafs involving Mangiapane and Matias Maccelli. Unfortunately for Edmonton, the Leafs balked at the trade.
Now, it seems the only recourse is to waive the former sixth-round pick of the 2015 NHL Draft. If he clears, and there’s every belief that he will, the Oilers will get about $1.1 million in cap relief and a roster spot open for further additions.
It’s highly unlikely anyone claims him. Nevertheless, there might be a team out there willing to do the Oilers a solid and take Mangapiane off their hands.
What’s Next for Mangiapane?
Assuming he clears, Mangiapane will likely report to the Oilers’ AHL affiliate. Unless the two sides have an agreement in which Mangiapane doesn’t have to report, the Edmonton winger will need to at least show up in Bakersfield.
At that point, it will be up to the Bakersfield Condors if Mangiapane plays or not.
It’s also worth pointing out that this move could be an administrative issue. As such, Mangiapane could be sent down, but remain with the main club awaiting a trade. It’s likely that the Oilers didn’t healthy scratch him, as has happened with other players on other teams, because Edmonton wants the cap space and the roster spot.
Could Another Help the Oilers Out?
That’s something the Oilers would love. If another club went ahead and claimed Mangiapane off waivers, GM Stan Bowman would send that team a gift basket every Christmas.
While no other clubs may want to claim Mangiapane outright, there might be a team, like the LA Kings, who have dealt with several injuries at this point in the season. The move may be out of desperation, but it could help the Oilers find a home for Mangiapane without having go through the rigors of a trade.
It’s also worth pointing out that there may be a contract termination component to this move. Thus far, there has been no indication that’s the case. But Oilers and Mangiapane may work out a deal in which his contract ends. Doing so would allow him to sign with another club before the March 6 NHL trade deadline.
Such a move would cut it close, but it could work. Mangiapane’s camp has had a few weeks to test the market. A few weeks ago, the Oilers granted permission for his agent to speak to other teams. So, who knows, there might be a deal out there after all.
Blues Rumors: Unthinkable Deal with Division Rival Could Happen
The latest wave of St. Louis Blues rumors has the NHL buzzing, and not in a quiet, under-the-breath kind of way. During the February 28 edition of Saturday Headlines on Sportsnet, insider Elliotte Friedman dropped a bombshell: there is a “decent chance” the Blues could move forward Robert Thomas ahead of the March 6, 2026 NHL trade deadline.
But it’s unthinkable when the potential destination could be a division rival.
Thomas isn’t just another name on the roster. He’s been one of the faces of the franchise, a homegrown talent who helped usher in the post-2019 era. Trading him would signal more than a tweak. It would scream philosophical shift. Yet Blues rumors are taking off, with front offices across the league watching closely and fans in St. Louis refreshing their feeds like it’s a playoff overtime.
According to Friedman, one potential landing spot stands out: the Utah Mammoth. And yes, that’s a division rival. If the Blues pull the trigger, they wouldn’t just be shaking up their own future, they’d be altering the balance of power in the Central Division.
Blues Rumors and the Utah Fit
When peeling back the layers of these Blues rumors, the Utah angle starts to make sense, at least on paper.
The Mammoth are surging. What began as a promising campaign has morphed into something more serious. They’ve got young assets, draft capital, and, crucially, cap space. In the modern NHL, flexibility is currency, and Utah has plenty in its wallet.
From the Blues’ perspective, that’s enticing. St. Louis has been straddling the line between retool and rebuild. Moving Thomas could net a haul that accelerates a youth movement or shores up multiple roster holes. It’s the classic quantity-versus-quality dilemma, and general manager Doug Armstrong has never been shy about bold swings.
Then there’s another layer to these Blues rumors. Thomas has a no-trade clause, a detail that complicates everything. But Utah’s upward trajectory could make the idea more palatable. If the Mammoth look like a legitimate contender, not just this season but for years to come, Thomas might decide that a fresh start in a rising market beats grinding through uncertainty in St. Louis.
That’s a big “if,” of course. Players don’t waive clauses lightly. But when a team is knocking on the door and the future looks bright, decisions can get pragmatic fast.
Chatter Surrounding Blues Point to a Pivotal Deadline
Even if Thomas doesn’t end up in Utah, the smoke around these Blues rumors suggests real fire. League executives are reportedly operating under the assumption that he’s available. That alone changes the trade market dynamic.
When a top-line center hits the board, or even might hit the board, contenders start doing math. Who can clear cap space? Who can part with a blue-chip prospect? Who’s willing to gamble big for a potential difference-maker down the stretch?
For the Blues, the next few days could define the next few years. Standing pat would signal belief in the current core. Trading Thomas would indicate a pivot, maybe even an admission that the current timeline isn’t aligning. That’s the current state of Blues rumors.
Fans are understandably torn. Thomas has been a fan favorite, a player who grew into his role and delivered in big moments. Seeing him in another sweater, especially that of a division rival, would sting. There’s no sugarcoating that.
But that’s the NHL at deadline time. Sentiment takes a back seat to strategy. As March 6 approaches, one thing is certain: the Blues aren’t just window shopping. Whether Robert Thomas stays or goes, this deadline feels like a crossroads, and the rest of the league knows it.
Meredith Gaudreau thanks U.S. men’s hockey, reflects on Olympics
Meredith Gaudreau — the widow of NHL player Johnny Gaudreau — continues to feel the love for her late husband and his brother, Matthew, after returning from a visit to the 2026 Olympic Games in Milan.
Gaudreau went overseas with her and Johnny’s three children and her in-laws, Jane and Guy Gaudreau. The family was in attendance to see Team USA capture gold in men’s and women’s ice hockey.
The men’s team honored Johnny — who was killed along with Matthew when they were struck by an alleged drunk driver while riding bicycles in their home state of New Jersey in August 2024 — by placing his sweater in their dressing room and parading it out onto the ice following their victory.
Johnny was 31 when he died and played 10 years in the NHL with the Calgary Flames and Columbus Blue Jackets. He would have been a candidate to represent his home country at the Games. Matthew, who died at 29 years old, could have been in the stands cheering him on.
Instead, it was Meredith and the Gaudreau family bringing them along in spirit to see what the USA would accomplish.
Why Matthew Schaefer is runaway favorite for NHL’s Calder Trophy
Even though there is more than a month remaining in the 2025-26 NHL regular season, there is one individual award race that you can probably wrap up and stop discussing. It is the Calder Trophy (Rookie of the Year) race, and it should belong to New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer.
It is his. Take it to the bank. Set it in stone. Write it in ink. Any other cliche you want to use here, apply it. He is going to win it. As he should.
The only question that should remain is whether or not anybody else in this rookie class can even wrestle a first-place vote away from him. It is hard to make an argument for why anybody should.
Matthew Schaefer is running away with Calder Trophy race
It is not that this is a bad rookie class. Because it quite simply is not.
Between Ben Kindel (Pittsburgh Penguins), Beckett Sennecke (Anaheim Ducks), Ivan Demidov (Montreal Canadiens), Ryan Leonard (Washington Capitals), Oliver Kapanen (Montreal Canadiens) and Fraser Minten (Boston Bruins), there are a lot of really good, really impactful first-year players who have helped their teams. It is, objectively speaking, a really strong group of rookies.
As good as that group has been, though, nobody really comes close to matching the impact that Schaefer has made for the Islanders.
With two more goals on Sunday night in a 5-4 win against the Florida Panthers, Schaefer is now up to 18 goals for the season and closing in on the record for most goals ever scored by a rookie defenseman. That mark currently sits at 23 goals and belongs to former New York Rangers defenseman Brian Leetch.
Schaefer still has 21 games remaining this season to top it, and given his current pace, he not only seems on track to do so, but he seems on track to run circles around it.
He is already one of just four rookie defensemen to ever score 20 goals, joining a list that includes only Leetch, Barry Beck and Dion Phaneuf.
What stands out about that list is the ages of the players involved. All three of Leetch, Beck and Phaneuf were 20 years old in their rookie seasons.
Schaefer, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, is only 18 years old and has gone right from junior hockey into the NHL. That sort of development path is almost unheard of for a defenseman, especially when it comes with this sort of immediate impact.
It is not just the goal-scoring numbers that make him an immediate star. It is also the fact he is playing the role of a No. 1 defenseman on a potential playoff team, and also playing it exceptionally well.
Going into Sunday’s game, the Islanders were outscoring opponents by a 48-36 margin with Schaefer on the ice during 5-on-5 play. When he is off the ice, they were being outscored by a 63-70 margin. Most rookie defensemen, especially at this age, get put into highly sheltered roles where they are almost hidden from any tough minutes. The Islanders have done the opposite and simply allowed Schaefer to play like a grizzled veteran. He is not only holding his own for an 18-year-old; he is quite simply dominating.
Schaeffer has completely transformed their short-term expectations and long-term ceiling. All of that together with the individual production makes him the runaway favorite for the Rookie of the Year.
Ducks honor Quenneville for 1,000 career wins
The Anaheim Ducks honored Joel Quenneville on Sunday with a pregame ceremony at Honda Center celebrating his 1,000 career wins.
Quenneville – in his first season coaching for the Ducks – reached the milestone with the team’s victory over the Edmonton Oilers on Wednesday.
He joins Scotty Bowman as the only two head coaches in NHL history to reach the 1,000-win mark.
“Hi Joel, congratulations on this wonderful milestone,” Bowman said in a video message to Quenneville. “1,000 wins, and you’ve been a winner all your career.”
During the ceremony, Quenneville made his way to center ice and was joined by his wife Elizabeth, his kids Dylan, Lily and Anna, and his mother, Gloria.
Ducks owners Henry and Susan Samueli came out wearing replicas of Quenneville’s iconic white mustache, much to his amusement. General manager Pat Verbeek also joined the crew on the ice.
The Samuelis presented Quenneville with a special Tiffany crystal.
Hockey Hall of Famer Lanny McDonald – who recently finished his term as chairman of the Hall – surprised Quenneville and presented him with a custom canvas.
Quenneville also received a trip to the Wimbledon tennis tournament from the team, and custom humidor with cigars and a magnum of Cabernet from his coaching staff. The magnum bottle is engraved with the teams that he’s coached and the wins per team, with the name of each coach he’s worked with throughout his career.
Quenneville spent the bulk of his career with the Chicago Blackhawks, where he won three Stanley Cups, and also coached with the St. Louis Blues, Colorado Avalanche, Florida Panthers, and now the Ducks.
He earned the Jack Adams Award in the 1999-2000 season as the NHL’s Coach of the Year while with the Blues.
NHL Unites Pride Cup promotes diversity, equality, inclusion in hockey
VANCOUVER — Cody Rigsby grew up around the Carolina Hurricanes and “had a lot of fun” watching recent New York Rangers and New York Islanders games, but his cross-country trip to the 2026 NHL Unites Pride Cup this weekend was personal.
Rigsby, a 38-year-old Peloton instructor who competed on
Cunningham, Harris help NBA-leading Pistons beat Magic for 6th straight road victory
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Cade Cunningham had 29 points and 11 assists, Tobias Harris scored 23 points and the NBA-leading Detroit Pistons beat the Orlando Magic 106-92 on Sunday night for their sixth straight road victory.
The Pistons improved to 45-14, winning for the eighth time in nine games. They have won 10 of 11 on the road and are 21-7 overall away from home.
Jalen Duren added 16 points and 10 rebounds for Detroit.
Paolo Banchero led Orlando with 24 points and 11 rebounds, but also had nine turnovers. Tristan da Silva added 19 points and Desmond Bane had 17, but the Magic shot 30.7% in the second half and experienced a third-quarter collapse for the second time in three nights. They squandered a 19-point lead in less than four minutes in a loss to Houston on Friday night.
After missing their first 15 3-point attempts, the Pistons were down 57-50 at halftime. They moved ahead for the first time on a 3-pointer by Harris midway through the third quarter, and took command with an 11-0 run.
Detroit forward Isaiah Stewart served the final game of a seven-game suspension for an altercation at Charlotte on Feb. 9. Magic guard Anthony Black missed a game for the first time this season, sitting out with a strained right quad.
Up next
Pistons: At Cleveland on Tuesday night.
Magic: Host Washington on Tuesday night.
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Lakers rookie Adou Thiero continuing to adjust to life between NBA, G League
LOS ANGELES — Jarred Vanderbilt played in just 19 games across his first two NBA seasons. It was just the nature of his role on the Denver Nuggets, a second-round draft pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, attempting to carve his way into a role-player position on a squad that achieved back-to-back second-place finishes in the Western Conference.
Since the Nuggets didn’t have their own G-League team at the time, Vanderbilt learned what life on the road was like. He suited up for the Delaware Blue Coats, Rio Grande Valley Vipers and Windy City Bulls as an assignment player, parachuting into locker rooms in hopes of continuing his development cycle en route to a consistent NBA playing time.
“It’s definitely tough,” said Vanderbilt, now 26 years old and in his fourth season on the Lakers. “Sometimes it’s hard to see the bigger picture right then and there – I did the G-League for three years, up and down, been traded as well. It’s all a part of the process. Sometimes you got to go through that – especially not being a high first-round pick or lottery pick – being able to grind from the bottom and really put in the work and make it up here.”
Vanderbilt eventually did make the jump to a consistent role when Denver flipped him to the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2020, the first of three trades that ended with the versatile 6-foot-8 forward landing with the Lakers in 2023.
Adou Thiero, the Lakers’ second-round selection in the 2025 NBA draft, is currently learning how to navigate the up-and-down nature of playing for both the Lakers and the South Bay Lakers in the G-League. Assigned alongside guard Bronny James, Thiero has recorded two double-digit scoring games across three games since Feb. 20 for South Bay.
Against the Texas Legends on Feb. 20, the Arkansas alumnus tallied 19 points on 7-of-8 shooting to go with seven rebounds. A handful of days later, Thiero recorded 14 points on 6-of-9 shooting, matching his rebound total with seven.
Vanderbilt’s noticed the strides the 21-year-old rookie, who has played in 17 NBA games this season, showcasing his, at times, high-flying nature on the floor, has taken to better his game.
“I think he’s done a good job staying with it, the process him going up and down,” Vanderbilt said of Thiero. “He’s been embracing the process, learning from it, and being able to showcase his strengths, while also being willing to develop his stuff he’s not so good at right now, so, yeah, he’s made great progress over the year.”
Thiero, recalled alongside James from South Bay on Sunday afternoon, said that while he’s expected to make plays in transition with the Lakers and in the G-League, the defensive focus remains on both ends. Thiero added that with South Bay, he’s been able to score a little bit more.
“I’m just going out there, keep getting comfortable with the game, the pace, just trying to work on things that I need to develop and be better at,” Thiero said.
“Just trying to get 1% better every day, just keeping that mindset and just knowing that, … there’s a bigger picture. So just making sure I’m ready for that day, when that day comes.”
Notes:
Forward Rui Hachimura is set to play after missing the previous two games with an illness. Lakers Coach JJ Redick said that Hachimura will not be on a minutes restriction.
Despite being listed as questionable with left-foot arthritis on Sunday afternoon, the Lakers upgraded LeBron James to available against the Sacramento Kings. James, for the sixth consecutive game, will start alongside Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton.
NBA-leading Detroit Pistons beat Orlando Magic 106-92 for 6th straight road victory
Cade Cunningham had 29 points and 11 assists, Tobias Harris scored 23 points and the NBA-leading Detroit Pistons beat the Orlando Magic 106-92 on Sunday night for their sixth straight road victory.
The Pistons improved to 45-14, winning for the eighth time in nine games. They have won 10 of 11 on the road and are 21-7 overall away from home.
Jalen Duren added 16 points and 10 rebounds for Detroit.
Paolo Banchero led Orlando with 24 points and 11 rebounds, but also had nine turnovers. Tristan da Silva added 19 points and Desmond Bane had 17, but the Magic shot 30.7% in the second half and experienced a third-quarter collapse for the second time in three nights. They squandered a 19-point lead in less than four minutes in a loss to Houston on Friday night.
After missing their first 15 3-point attempts, the Pistons were down 57-50 at halftime. They moved ahead for the first time on a 3-pointer by Harris midway through the third quarter, and took command with an 11-0 run.
Detroit forward Isaiah Stewart served the final game of a seven-game suspension for an altercation at Charlotte on Feb. 9. Magic guard Anthony Black missed a game for the first time this season, sitting out with a strained right quad.
Up next
The Pistons visit the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday night.
The Magic host the Washington Wizards on Tuesday night.
Luka Doncic and LeBron James power Lakers to dominant win over Kings
The search for sustained consistency remained a focus for the Lakers on Sunday against a Sacramento Kings team with the NBA’s worst record.
And it helped that the Lakers were completely healthy against the Kings, something that has eluded them nearly all season.
Behind strong efforts from Luka Doncic and LeBron James, the Lakers defeated the struggling Kings 128-104 at Crypto.com Arena in their second straight blowout win.
Doncic, one of five Lakers to score in double figures, scored 28 points on 10-for-16 shooting. He made four three-pointers and had nine assists and five rebounds.
James, who played after initially being listed as questionable because of arthritis in his left foot, scored 24 points in 27 minutes on eight-for-15 shooting. He made a trio of threes and had five assists.
Rui Hachimura played 22 minutes off the bench and had eight points and two rebounds after missing the previous two games because of illness.
Nique Clifford led the Kings (14-48) with 26 points and had seven rebounds.
Just as in Saturday’s win at Golden State, the Lakers (36-24) benefited from strong shooting. They shot 50% from the field and 46% from three-point range.
One of the most exciting plays happened in the first quarter when Marcus Smart dived for a loose ball and, while prone on his back, passed to James. The Lakers star then passed to a hustling Austin Reaves, who took a few dribbles to get a Kings defender to commit before making an alley-oop pass to James for a two-handed, rim-hanging dunk.
The crowd was whipped into a frenzy. The Kings called a timeout, allowing the Lakers and their fans to soak in the moment.
There was another play in the third quarter in which Doncic slipped and almost fell down, losing control of the ball. But Doncic regained his balance and the ball before shooting an off-balance three-pointer that gave the Lakers a 24-point lead.
It was that kind of night for the Lakers, a game full of highlights and fun that allowed coach JJ Redick to empty his bench in the fourth quarter.
The Lakers are 3-3 since the All-Star break with 28- and 24-point wins after three straight losses.
Before the game, Redick remarked how his team has stayed “positive” and stuck to the process.
“The world has fallen 19 different times and we’ve responded,” Redick said. “And again, we’re looking for that level of consistency. It’s not always — like I said last night — going to show up in wins and losses. But we’re confident we’re going to find it.”
Neemias Queta Powers Celtics Past Sixers: Three Reasons They Won, and Player Grades
Game Flow
Neemias Queta was a beast
The Celtics out-worked Philadelphia
Jaylen Brown was in total control
Player Grades
BOSTON — The Celtics struggled shooting early on, but they crushed the offensive boards until shots started to fall. Neemias Queta had a career night, and he finally finished the Sixers off in a 114-98 win.
Box Score
Game Flow
The game was played a pretty high pace early on, which is typical of the non-Joel Embiid Sixers. Boston hung around at the first TV timeout, only down two, despite shooting 4-13 and 1-9 from three. Neemias Queta was a big reason for that, as were Boston’s offensive rebounds. The Sixers went on an 11-3 run but the Celtics answered to go into the second quarter only down two. The Celtics had 13 second chance points to Philly’s eight, and seven made free throws to their three.
The Celtics rode Queta to a five-point lead as he notched a 16-point, 10-rebound double-double in 14 minutes of play. The Celtics went on a 9-1 run and pushed the lead to nine. The Celtics ultimately got it to 12 by halftime, courtesy of a Baylor Scheierman buzzer-beater. Derrick White had 10 points in the second quarter, Queta had nine, and Jaylen Brown had seven points and four assists.
The hustle plays continued into the third quarter, holding the Sixers off until a couple of three-pointers got the Celtics a 15-point lead. The Sixers quickly responded and cut it back to eight, and after some back-and-forth, went on a 12-3 run to cut it to six heading into the fourth. Tyrese Maxey scored 13 in the third to keep the Sixers close.
Maxey kept it up in the fourth, preventing the Celtics from getting any separation and keeping the game at six with three minutes to go. But then Queta had a strong finish through contact, and later, two free throws, to get it up to nine. Then he finished a dunk after the ball was tipped around to make it 11, which he followed up with an offensive rebound and lay up to make it 13. Scheierman’s three-pointer was the dagger as the C’s closed out a 16-point win.
Here are three reasons why they won.
Neemias Queta was a beast
He was a monster on the offensive boards, which the Celtics desperately needed early in the game.
“I think just got lucky a couple times,” he joked in the locker room. “Crashing. Just getting in there. Just getting a body in the paint and a lot of those came in just only where I could get to.”
The Celtics found him over and over, trusting him to make plays. He only had two assists, but if the Celtics were hitting their shots, he might have had an outside chance at a triple-double. Then again, the misses were what fueled his 10 offensive rebounds.
Either way, Queta played the best game of his life.
The Celtics out-worked Philadelphia
At one point, the Celtics were grabbing literally half of their misses, which is an outrageous number. But they also kept countless possessions alive with their tenacity. It wasn’t just Queta, either. It felt like Scheierman, Hugo Gonzalez, Derrick White, and, basically, anyone else on the floor was making a strong effort to keep possessions alive.
“[There were] multiple plays where we got loose balls,” Joe Mazzulla said. “When you play against a team like this, and you lose two games in the margins and the difference is four points in three games, that’s what that stuff comes down to. So we handled the end of quarters relatively well outside of the second one, and then the margins were big for us.”
Jaylen Brown was in total control
He didn’t dominate the game, but he was a steady presence and consistently good throughout. He was drawing two and kicking, which opened up some clean looks for his teammates. He never seemed to be trying to do too much.
Player Grades
Neemias Queta: A+
Actually, I want to give him the Lisa Simpson record-breaking A++++
He finished with 27 points and 17 rebounds, shooting 10-17 from the field and 7-10 from the line. Some of his finishes were a little … out of character …
Jaylen Brown: A
He was great pretty much from start to finish in this game, though he did have five turnovers, so that strips him of the plus grade. I will say that two of them were live-ball turnovers, a third was technically one but it was more of a missed shot to me, and two were dead ball.
Either way, it didn’t matter much. He was consistently great in this game.
Derrick White: A
He shot well from three (5-11) but not from two (1-5). But his 21 points, eight rebounds, two steals and two blocks were huge. Some tough turnovers and the misses knock him down a peg, but this was still one of those DWhite games that make people say he’s an All-Star caliber player.
Baylor Scheierman: A-
He struggled with his shot early in the game, but he hit the big three-pointers at the end of each half, which was important. More than that, he played through the fractured thumb and wasn’t afraid to do the dirty work.
“Baylor’s been balling on both ends,” Brown said. “His offensive rebounding has been great, and he’s been shooting the ball at a pretty decent clip, too. So Baylor’s just an all-around good basketball player. He’s smart, and I like how he’s developing, as well, so we just keep progressing that on. He’s always asking me questions on defense and stuff like that, and we’re always talking back and forth. But Baylor’s been playing well, too.”
Nikola Vucevic: B+
He got into foul trouble early, but once he got into the flow of the game, he did well. He was 3-6 from three, and he also had a double-double (11 points, 12 rebounds).
The good thing is that two different centers with two different styles are showing success. So however Boston decides to go, they can feel comfortable in their decision.
Sam Hauser: B
A solid night for Hauser, who got good looks despite hitting just 2-9 from deep. He was still a net-positive, but I’d still like to see him hit more consistently.
Hugo Gonzalez: B
He gets a good grade just for this play:
He was one of the guys hustling to keep plays alive.
Jordan Walsh: B
Solid in 14 minutes. Would like to see the early season shooting come back, though.
Payton Pritchard: C
The five assists and +7 saved him from a D. He only took four shots and missed them all. Forgettable night.
Three-peat for Michael Jordan as Tyler Reddick makes NASCAR history for NBA legend
AUSTIN, Texas — Tyler Reddick’s latest win drove him straight into the NASCAR record books.
Reddick held off hard-charging Shane van Gisbergen over the final 20 laps at the Circuit of the Americas on Sunday to become the first Cup Series driver to win the first three races of the season.
Driving a Toyota co-owned by Michael Jordan, Reddick won the season-opening Daytona 500 and a week later at Atlanta, then won from the pole in the first road course race of the year.
Jordan, the basketball Hall of Famer and six-time NBA champion, was with Reddick’s 23XI pit crew exchanging high fives as Reddick crossed the finish line.
“It’s one race, but it was so important,” Reddick said. “It’s so fitting to get three in a row and make history.”
History made for a team and ownership group that has been making a lot of it. They took on NASCAR with a federal antitrust lawsuit. The settlement in December and was considered a major legal victory that secured a permanent franchise-style model and ensured the team would remain in business for the long-term.
They’ve been unbeatable on the race track ever since.
“I’m proud of the team we put together,” Jordan said. He credited co-owner Denny Hamlin, who also is a driver for Joe Gibbs Racing, with being the “mastermind” behind it’s racing success.
“I just put up the money,” Jordan said. “Denny’s done an incredible job building this team.”
Jordan also said he’ll be at the next race in Phoenix to see if Reddick can extend the winning streak that has built a commanding 70-point lead in the drivers’ championship.
Van Gisbergen, who won five of six road course races in 2025, lost his bid for a record-tying sixth consecutive road win. The only road course race the Trackhouse driver didn’t win last season was in Austin.
“Tyler was just amazing,” van Gisbergen said. “You’re always disappointed with second when the expectations are so high.”
Reddick was just too good all weekend in pursuit of history. His 11th career victory was also his second at COTA, a track built for Formula 1, and the first time he’s had multiple victories at a track. He won at COTA in 2023.
It was far from easy, even if Reddick looked like he was in complete control. Van Gisbergen was on his bumper for several laps in the final stage, but never found the pace to pass before falling farther and farther behind over the final six laps.
“I was just trying to minimize mistakes, Shane is so good,” Reddick said.
Jordan, so clutch in his playing days, noted Reddick was cool in the driver’s seat while under immense pressure.
“You see SVG coming back, you get a little nervous, but I think he had him covered the whole day,” Jordan said.
“I’d Flagrant His A**”: Shaquille O’Neal Reacts to Donte DiVincenzo Disrespect as Rudy Gobert Catches Stray
It isn’t news that Shaquille O’Neal doesn’t like Rudy Gobert. Both of them have taken their shots at one another. The Big Diesel’s even called Gobert the worst player of all time. But who knew the bad blood ran so deep that Shaq hit the French center with an uppercut without any instigation. Or to clarify, the Lakers great would rather do so to the Timberwolves center than Donte DiVincenzo.
That’s the Inside the NBA experience. The crew reacted to a clip of DiVincenzo claiming he’s shot his free throw like Shaq. The Big Aristotle didn’t take to it so kindly. “I wish I was playing, too. I’d flagrant his a– to the next game… I’m going to see you, DiVincenzo. Get some spaghetti in your face,” said the four-time NBA champion.
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Just for clarity, Donte DiVincenzo had an amazing game against the Nuggets. He scored 17 in the playoff rematch and made two of his three free throws. But his one miss was so bad that the sharpshooter compared himself to Shaquille O’Neal’s only weakness during his playing career.
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Shaq wished he could settle things on the court. But then he remembered he actually likes DiVincenzo. So he chose to instead slander Gobert once again. “Actually, no, I like DiVincenzo. I’m going to take it out on soft a– Rudy Gobert,” the Lakers icon said on Inside the NBA.
This isn’t going to stop until the end of time. Shaquille O’Neal feels Rudy Gobert doesn’t play like a true big. The four-time DPOY isn’t well-reputed for his dominance on the offensive end. There are a few more things Shaq probably doesn’t like about the Timberwolves center. However, tonight was a night of celebration for Gobert.
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The Timberwolves notched up their third consecutive win. And Gobert’s challenge to guard Nikola Jokic was deemed a success.
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Rudy Gobert explains his mindset when guarding Nikola Jokic
Rudy Gobert and the Timberwolves were elated with their effort tonight. The team shot a staggering 54.1% from the field while making 14 threes on the night. But to Gobert, his job doesn’t pertain to being an offensive engine. The towering center grabbed 15 rebounds against the Joker, who leads the league in the category.
Nikola Jokic still performed up to his standard. It was another near triple-double performance, which included 35 points and 13 rebounds. Gobert doesn’t mind those numbers. He views such matchups in a broader spectrum.
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“It’s hard for people to understand like oh, sometimes he might score 40, but if he scores 40 and they don’t score 100 points as a team, that’s a win for us you know. So it’s really trying to limit him as much as I can, but trying to limit them as a team as much as I can. You know, sometimes I might not be guarding him directly, but even when I’m not guarding directly, I’m guarding him, you know, he’s watching me, and he’s waiting to see what I’m doing,” Rudy Gobert said about the matchup with Jokic.
Although the Joker generated nine assists, Gobert disturbed his rhythm. The defensive stalwart played a major role in three of Jokic’s five turnovers. Gobert embraced the physicality of the contest and did a splendid job in pushing the pace. The Wolves star recorded four assists, enhancing the Timberwolves’ offense without any roughness inside the paint.
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Rudy Gobert has played a critical role in the Timberwolves being one of the best defenses in the NBA this season. The 33-year-old is holding opponents to just 53.6% when shooting inside six feet. It’s an elite mark among centers, ranking even higher than Victor Wembanyama this season.
So, despite the criticism from Shaq, Rudy Gobert remains clear with his role on the Timberwolves. And he’s a pivotal reason behind their success this season.
NBA roundup: Knicks halt Spurs’ 11-game winning streak
Mikal Bridges scored 25 points and Jalen Brunson added 24, helping the host New York Knicks halt the San Antonio Spurs’ 11-game winning streak with a 114-89 victory on Sunday afternoon.
Bridges made 10 of 17 shots from the floor and 5 of 9 from 3-point range. He also contributed five rebounds and five steals. Karl-Anthony Towns collected 12 points and 14 rebounds
Brunson had seven assists and connected four times from beyond the arc to send the Knicks to their 14th win in 18 games and avenge a 134-132 setback to the Spurs on New Year’s Eve.
San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama recorded 25 points and 13 rebounds. Devin Vassell scored 18 points and Stephon Castle added 13 for the Spurs, who lost for the first time since dropping a 111-106 decision to the Charlotte Hornets on Jan. 31. They also were held to a season-low point total.
Cavaliers 106, Nets 102
James Harden collected 22 points, nine rebounds and eight assists after missing two games with a fractured right thumb as Cleveland hung on in the final seconds for a victory over Brooklyn in New York.
Former Net Jarrett Allen added 20 and Evan Mobley contributed 17 as the Cavs survived their third straight game without Donovan Mitchell (strained groin). Sam Merrill contributed 15 and Dennis Schroder chipped in 12 as Cleveland shot 48.6% and hit 25 free throws, nine in the fourth quarter.
Michael Porter Jr. led all scorers with 26 and helped Brooklyn nearly erase a nine-point deficit in the final minutes. Rookie Danny Wolf added a career-best 23 and nine rebounds while first-year guard Nolan Traore contributed 17.
Celtics 114, 76ers 98
Neemias Queta had a career-high 27 points along with 17 rebounds and Jaylen Brown finished with 27 points, eight rebounds and eight assists to lead Boston to a victory over visiting Philadelphia.
Derrick White added 21 points, six rebounds and eight assists for Boston, which received 11 points and 12 rebounds from Nikola Vucevic. The Celtics made 18 of 21 free-throw attempts and had a 59-37 edge in rebounding.
Tyrese Maxey led Philadelphia with 33 points. Maxey made 4 of 11 3-point attempts. VJ Edgecombe finished with 23 for the 76ers, who forced 15 Celtics turnovers.
Lakers 128, Kings 104
Luka Doncic scored 28 points with nine assists and LeBron James added 24 points as Los Angeles completed a successful back-to-back with a victory over visiting Sacramento.
Austin Reaves and Deandre Ayton each scored 12 points as the Lakers returned home for the victory one day after earning an easy win at Golden State to end a three-game losing streak.
Nique Clifford poured in 26 points and Maxime Raynaud added 16 points with 13 rebounds for the Kings, who dropped to 2-2 since ending a franchise-record 16-game losing streak. Russell Westbrook scored 14 points against his former team as Sacramento went 2-3 on a just-completed five-game road trip.
Bulls 120, Bucks 97
Josh Giddey notched a triple-double of 20 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists and Collin Sexton scored a game-high 22 points as Chicago defeated visiting Milwaukee to stop an 11-game losing streak.
Chicago used a 27-0 run bridging the third and fourth quarters to secure its first victory since Jan. 31. Sexton scored 14 of his points after halftime to spark seven Bulls in double figures. Buzelis scored 20 points while Leonard Miller added a career-best 15.
Bobby Portis led Milwaukee with 18 points. Cam Thomas (15), AJ Green (13) and Ryan Rollins (11) were next. Kyle Kuzma and Kevin Porter Jr. chipped in 10 points apiece. Chicago salvaged the finale of the four-game season series.
Timberwolves 117, Nuggets 108
Anthony Edwards scored 21 points and Jaden McDaniels finished with 20 points as visiting Minnesota beat Denver to move a game ahead of the Nuggets in the Western Conference standings.
Bones Hyland had 18 points off the bench, Donte DiVincenzo contributed 17, Julius Randle had 14 points and Rudy Gobert grabbed 15 rebounds for the Timberwolves, who moved into fourth place. Minnesota swept its three-game road trip and salvaged the final matchup of the season against Denver.
Nikola Jokic had a near triple-double, finishing with 35 points, 13 rebounds and nine assists. Jamal Murray had 25 points, Tim Hardaway Jr. scored 17 off the bench and Christian Braun added 15 points for Denver. The Nuggets have lost four of their first six out of the All-Star break.
Grizzlies 125, Pacers 106
Taylor Hendricks made a career-high five 3-pointers and scored 19 points, Jaylen Wells added 18 points and Olivier-Maxence Prosper chipped in with 17 to lead Memphis to a victory over Indiana in Indianapolis.
The Grizzlies won their second straight game following a three-game slide. Memphis also got 16 points from Scotty Pippen Jr., 16 points and six rebounds from Rayan Rupert and 14 assists from Walter Clayton Jr., a franchise-record total for a Grizzlies rookie.
The Pacers lost their sixth straight game and their 10th in the last 12 outings. Jarace Walker led Indiana with 21 points, including four 3-pointers. Micah Potter added 18 points and nine rebounds and Jay Huff contributed 14 points.
Hawks 135, Trailblazers 101
Onyeka Okongwu scored 25 points, setting the pace with 20 in the first half, to help Atlanta to a win over visiting Portland and extend its winning streak to four games.
Okongwu was 9-for-15 from the field, 7-for-12 on 3-pointers and added 10 rebounds and six assists, picking up his 15th double-double. Jonathan Kuminga had 20 points and seven rebounds and CJ McCollum scored 19. Nickeil Alexander-Walker returned from a sprained ankle and scored 15. Jalen Johnson returned from a hip flexor and battled foul trouble to finish with eight.
Portland was led by Jrue Holiday with 23 points and Donovan Clingan, who had 15 points and 15 rebounds, his 24th double-double and 16th game with at least 15 rebounds.
Pistons 106, Magic 92
Cade Cunningham paired 29 points with 11 assists as visiting Detroit defeated Orlando.
Cunningham also had six rebounds for league-leading Detroit, which overcame some early shooting woes to crush the Magic 31-18 and 25-17 across the last two quarters. Tobias Harris scored 23 points for Detroit, while Jalen Duren posted 16 points and 10 rebounds, and Ausur Thompson compiled nine points, 11 boards and three blocks.
Paolo Banchero had 24 points and 11 assists for Orlando, Tristan da Silva added 19 and Desmond Bane chipped in with 17 points and seven assists.
Thunder 100, Mavericks 87
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander poured in 30 points — his 123rd consecutive game to score 20 or more points — to lead Oklahoma City past host Dallas.
Gilgeous-Alexander moved within three games of tying Wilt Chamberlain’s NBA record. He did break Chamberlain’s mark for consecutive 20-plus point games on the road with 59.
The Thunder’s Chet Holmgren contributed 19 points and nine rebounds in the win while Isaiah Joe added 14 points off the bench. Caleb Martin led the Mavericks with 18 points while Brandon Williams and Max Christie added 14.
Clippers 137, Pelicans 117
Kawhi Leonard scored 23 points, four teammates scored in double figures and host Los Angeles snapped a three-game losing streak by beating New Orleans.
Jordan Miller added 19 points, Derrick Jones Jr. scored 17, Brook Lopez had 16 and John Collins (head injury) returned from a two-game absence to score 15 for the Clippers.
Rookie Jeremiah Fears came off the bench to score a season-high 28, rookie Derik Queen added 19 off the bench, Dejounte Murray scored 17, Trey Murphy III returned from a five-game absence due to a right shoulder contusion to add 16 and Saddiq Bey had 14 to lead the Pelicans.
NBA Fans React To Warriors Steph Curry Announcement
On Monday night, the Golden State Warriors will play the LA Clippers on their home floor in San Francisco.
The Warriors have been without their best player since the end of January, as two-time MVP Steph Curry continues to deal with an injury.
Golden State Warriors Make Steph Curry Announcement
On Sunday, the Warriors announced an update on Curry.
Yahoo Sports wrote: “Steph Curry will be sidelined at least more 10 days after being re-evaluated for lingering knee issues, the Warriors announced. Curry last played on Jan. 30 and has missed the last 10 games with patella-femoral syndrome/bone bruising in his right knee.”
Before the injury, the four-time NBA Champion had been averaging 27.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.1 steals per contest while shooting 46.8% from the field and 39.1% from three-point range in 39 games.
Here’s what people were saying about the news:
@DrNiravPandya: “This is not surprising given the tricky nature of patellofemoral syndrome (with bone bruising as reported by the team). Unlike other conditions, the recovery is not linear. As it largely stems from overuse, pushing too quickly can lead to a flare up and more time missed.”
@Gene_February: “Speedy recovery to the Greatest player of our Generation”
@WarriorsAdamo: “They know he isn’t coming back, just shut him down for the season. They can afford the ticket sales dropping”
@diptimahapatra: “Steph go on a long vacation with Ayesha. This team is beyond saving and I would hate to see Steph get a catastrophic injury trying to salvage this season.”
The Warriors have had an up-and-down season that currently has them as the eighth seed in the Western Conference with a 31-29 record in 60 games.
NBA Fans React To Bronny James’ Performance In Kings-Lakers Game
On Sunday evening, the Los Angeles Lakers hosted the Sacramento Kings at Crypto.com Arena.
The Lakers crushed the Kings, winning by a score of 128-104.
After an extended G League stint, Bronny made his return to the NBA on Sunday.
The former USC guard put up three points and two assists while shooting 1/3 from the field in six minutes of playing time.
NBA Fans React To Bronny James’ Performance
Here’s what people were saying about Bronny’s performance:
@Lakers_310: “Lakers fans give Bronny more love than Bron. 😂”
@BronnyMuse06: “Bronny James is shooting 40.4% on NBA threes since February 4, 2025 21/52 3FG 🎯”
@Notaboutm3: “Bronny to Bufkin!! Man you see the chemistry these South Bay guys have I swear the Lakers should envy that.”
@roadto80pct: “bronny a legit 3p shooter. around 40% in the g league on high volume and 40% in the nba this year. around 40% even extending back to last february. this is a 3/d dude who’s also a dimer. and continues to grow as a slasher”
@makingtronics: “you’re never going to convince me that bronny james is not an NBA player”
@MavsRefugee: “I would really like to see what Bronny, Theiro even Bufkin look off Luka, Reaves, Lebron in competitive minutes. I just don’t see what’s wrong with these dudes as role players”
Bronny is in his second year as a pro after being 55th in 2024.
He is currently averaging 2.2 points and 1.2 assists per contest while shooting 39.7% from the field and 41.4% from three-point range in 30 games.
With their victory over Sacramento, the Lakers are now 36-24 record in 60 games, which has them as the sixth seed in the Western Conference.
They have won two in a row.
After the Kings, the Lakers will host Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday.
At home, they are 17-12 in 29 games.
Will the World Cup inject ‘rocket fuel’ into FC Dallas and Major League Soccer?
FRISCO — By the time DJ “G” cued up Lionel Richie’s “All Night Long” last Friday night, the 24-hour party next to Toyota Stadium was already in full throttle: Dozens of fans feasted on 100 pizzas that FC Dallas supplied; two brave souls planned their evening near tents where they would, presumably, finally sleep.
This was the 21st year FC Dallas fans staged an around-the-clock tailgate. It had all the trappings of peak fandom: kids kicking soccer balls under moonlight, adults banging drums and painting a 30-by-30-foot tifo banner — a soccer fever dream lit by fire pit and streetlights. But this year, revelers primed for a season unlike any other, as soccer stakeholders expect the coming World Cup to super-charge the franchise and Major League Soccer.
Standing beside his eight-person tent, Charlie Ostrovich, an 11-year FC Dallas season-ticket holder who met his wife, Gina, through the team’s supporters’ club, the Dallas Beer Guardians, called the atmosphere “amazing.” The 1994 World Cup “kick-started soccer in the U.S.,” he said, “and once they finish renovating [Toyota Stadium], it will be poppin’ here.”
Thirty-two years after the last men’s World Cup on U.S. soil gave birth to MLS, FC Dallas and the league are heavily invested in using the largest World Cup in history — 48 teams — as a springboard to spread the type of passion that crescendoed in this nondescript Frisco parking lot. While the NFL has lapped all U.S sports in popularity, MLS believes it can close the gap on long-established leagues such as the NBA, NHL and MLB.
The challenge: How does a league fully capitalize on what it views as the greatest growth opportunity in its three-decade history?
Dan Hunt, President of FC Dallas, arrived at the tailgate a few hours before the team’s match against Toronto FC, making the rounds like the Pied Piper. He politely declined a fan’s offer of a potent shot before making this declaration to The Dallas Morning News: One day, MLS will rival Major League Baseball in popularity, and by 2029 it will be a top-five soccer league globally.
“The potential is limitless,” said Hunt, whose planning to take advantage of a World Cup bounce started when the bid was made in 2017. “This excitement and euphoria around the World Cup is like nothing we’ve ever seen before … This is the year of soccer.”
MLS told The News it made an “eight-figure” investment in World Cup-related campaigns. It believes it has wind at its back: team valuations, two-year attendance numbers and sponsorship dollars are up; viewership is expected to grow with the elimination of Apple TV’s additional paywall; and next year’s change to the season’s calendar is expected to attract more European talent. Seth Bacon, MLS’s Executive Vice President of Media, said the league is poised for “exponential growth” from this “generational” moment.
“We are looking at this as a huge injection of rocket fuel into this league,” Bacon told The News. “It’s going to be a transformational moment for the sport and the league, and we’re looking at how we create that next generation of what the league is going to look like, who our fans are going to be, how people interact with the sport.”
On the heels of the World Cup, he added, “the narrative isn’t going to be, ‘Hey, it’s the same old MLS.’”
Alan Rothenberg was chairman of the 1994 World Cup Organizing Committee and also launched MLS. He echoed Hunt’s sentiment that MLS will ultimately rival MLB in popularity in large part because of the soccer league’s young, diverse fan base.
“The question really is: How fast can MLS catch up?,” Rothenberg told The News. “I can’t give you a date, but I think it’s inevitable.”
West Virginia-based Kyle Sheldon is the founder and CEO of Name & Number, a soccer-specific marketing and creative agency whose client roster includes MLS, U.S. Soccer, Chelsea FC, Seattle Sounders FC and New York City FC. He said the “growth potential for soccer, and by extension MLS, may be the highest of any sport in America.”
“There will be a bump,” Sheldon, who has worked for D.C. United, Chicago Fire and the Seattle Sounders FC, told The News. “It’s a question of whether that bump is sustainable … MLS clubs, and the sport as a whole, are still kind of scratching the surface of what’s possible in the U.S., and the World Cup will be a massive accelerator for that.”
All 13 World Cup host cities in the U.S. and Canada are home to MLS clubs, and Arlington’s AT&T Stadium is hosting more matches (nine) than any other location. MLS stakeholders call this year a perfect soccer storm.
“The table is set,” John Kristick, who was the Executive Director of the United Bid Committee — leading the efforts to bring the World Cup to North America — told The News. “They’ve spent the last 35 years trying to get everything ready. It’s served up. They’ve got great ownership. They’ve got great soccer-specific stadiums. They’ve got brand awareness. They’ve got strong leaders across the clubs. Let’s eat.”
World Cup will create ‘the spark’
Michael Peticolas remembers walking into the Cotton Bowl on June 21, 1994, to watch the Bulgaria-Nigeria World Cup match, sitting with Nigerian fans and hearing their chants. What stayed with him wasn’t the final score, but rather what the game “felt” like — his first realization that soccer is the world’s game.
Last weekend, Peticolas stood beside the tailgating tent bearing the name of his brewery, Peticolas Brewing Company, one of the 24-hour tailgate’s sponsors. He’s attended FC Dallas matches since its first season at the Cotton Bowl and is such a big fan he once pitched the franchise on a FC Dallas beer.
“The World Cup is going to create the spark,” said Peticolas, who has purchased tickets for every World Cup since 2006. “But FC Dallas has to provide the firewood so, after it is over, they convert a once-in-a-lifetime event into a lasting relationship.”
The United States’ appetite for the World Cup is much different than what existed in 1994, Hunt said, when the game was “a novelty” and fans were still grasping the sport.
In order to secure the World Cup rights in 1994, FIFA mandated that the U.S. start a professional league. It was a big ask: Since Hunt’s late father, sports visionary Lamar Hunt, formed the American Football League in 1959, no new sports league had been successfully sustained. The AFL’s success and subsequent merger with the NFL created the modern NFL.
Rothenberg, whose recent book, “The Big Bounce,” details the growth of soccer in the U.S. from the ’94 World Cup, called Lamar Hunt an “essential keystone,” saying they couldn’t have created the league without him. And there were hurdles: In December 1993, when they announced the name of the league, MLB wrote Rothenberg demanding they “cease and desist” because MLS infringed on their name. Rothenberg told MLB: “Sue me. I’d love the headline ‘Major League Baseball Fears Major League Soccer.’”
These days, Rothenberg said, initial investors who put up $5 million each now have an asset package valued in excess of $1 billion. MLS said more than half of the 30 MLS teams are profitable.
To that point, five MLS teams now have valuations exceeding $1 billion, with Lionel Messi-led Inter Miami topping all teams at $1.45 billion, according to Sportico. The 30 teams, which have a combined valuation of $23 billion, have an average valuation of $767 million, an increase of 39% since Sportico’s first MLS valuation report in 2021. FC Dallas ranks 27th at $555 million.
Tel Aviv-based David Lasday, a strategic advisor who connects clubs, athletes and capital to emerging sports innovation, said the World Cup will lift the entire MLS ecosystem, but the valuation impact won’t be evenly distributed. Clubs in global gateway markets such as Los Angeles, Miami and New York will likely see the most immediate growth. Those markets, he said, attract international capital, sponsors and media attention that tends to compound around massive events.
“The bigger long-term story is structural,” Lasday told The News. “If the World Cup drives sustained media rights growth, deeper local sponsorship markets and stronger academy pipelines, mid-market clubs could see meaningful multiple expansion as well.”
Hunt said last season marked franchise highs in sponsorship and ticketing revenue. He said they’re on pace to surpass those figures this year, even though stadium capacity has been reduced because of a $200-million renovation project. In 2025, he said, the franchise saw a 10% increase in sponsorship dollars year over year.
Hunt declined to say whether the franchise is profitable, but said, “My brother [Clark] and I have never taken a single dollar out of FC Dallas. We have reinvested 100% of every revenue dollar back into players, facilities or staff.”
“We’re still very much in that growth-mode life cycle,” said Hunt, who is also the co-chair of the North Texas World Cup Organizing Committee. “We could not have picked a better time to really try to make a big leap in our revenue and coming on the heels of World Cup 2026 and also we’ll be developing the real estate around the stadium so we hope that that will also be a huge economic boost.”
Sheldon has told several clubs if they are not budgeting a minimum of $1 million specific to World Cup activations, “you’re missing the mark.”
“It’s not a question of should they be doing anything; it’s they should be doing everything,” Sheldon said. “It should be touching every single area of their business. Pull every lever they have.”
Sarah Kate Noftsinger, Atlanta United’s senior vice president and chief business officer, told The News the World Cup will be a “springboard” for the 10-year trajectory of the sport, and “how you put that in a jar and contain it is the million-dollar question for all of us.”
In January, MLS hired creative agency Ogilvy to lead its World Cup marketing strategy. The project is led by Ogilvy executive creative director Wes Phelan, whose previous career projects include the 2024 Super Bowl commercials for BMW and Mountain Dew.
The goal: accentuate how soccer “feels.” The initial campaign for the season is centered around the “MLS Is Back” creative, anchored by the spot “The Call,” featuring Magic Johnson, Son Heung-min, and MLS stars.
Efforts include coordinated club and league campaigns. The second phase of the campaign will focus on the MLS restart in July and a “Return to MLS” moment leading up to the World Cup final. MLS and premium experience company On Location are also working jointly to promote and sell World Cup hospitality packages.
“Without the Dan Hunts of the world — and go down the list of sports business leaders who are heavily invested in NFL [Robert Kraft, Arthur Blank, etc.] who also have an interest in soccer — this World Cup would likely not be here [otherwise] because they’ve all given the keys to the stadiums, and they found ways to work within FIFA’s guidelines so the stadiums can showcase the games,” said Kristick, now co-head of Consulting for Playfly Sports.
“That was major commitment from them and also it really gives this World Cup the chance to further accelerate the sport.”
MLS is in ‘pole position’
Tasked with the all-important duty of handling beverages during the 24-hour tailgate was Bailey Brown, the former president of the Dallas Beer Guardians, who is the current president of the Independent Supporters Council of North America, which advocates for 155 fan groups.
During a 2012 trip to Germany, she went to soccer watch parties and fell in love with the sport, which ultimately led her to FC Dallas games. Looking at the impact of this year’s World Cup, her focus will be on how the 30 MLS clubs work toward taking advantage of this moment.
As one barometer, teams are already benefiting from an increased appetite from brands to step into the MLS orbit. Team-specific sponsorship revenue reached $716 million last year, up 8% year over year.
Bob Lynch is the founder and CEO of SponsorUnited, which provides data on sponsorship and media partnerships. The company, which enables brands and rights holders to evaluate deals through data on more than 403,000 brands and 2.2 million deals, shared a trove of figures with The News to paint a picture of the sponsorship market in DFW and, more broadly, MLS.
From a sponsorship perspective, Lynch said, FC Dallas is toward the lower quartile among MLS teams. But from a growth perspective, the team has a “huge upside … If you look at their revenue generated on a per attendee basis, they generate more than $100 in sponsorship dollars per attendee.”
For the 2024 season, the most recent data SponsorUnited has on record, the average sponsorship deal for FC Dallas ranged from $180,000 to $240,000. That included 62 brand partners, which ranked 14th in MLS. [Hunt said sponsorship revenue increased 10% in 2025.]
For a snapshot of the DFW sports market, it has a mid-tier average deal size of $484,000. Brands such as AT&T, Blockchain.com and Globe Life are each committing more than 50% of their total sponsorship allocations to Dallas sports teams.
Nationally, there are new brands in the soccer market: Walmart’s first significant investment in soccer is a partnership with MLS. They’ve launched a campaign called Walmart Saturday Showdown. Financial technology company Chime last week announced a multi-year partnership with MLS.
“You’re going to have a whole new group of companies who are going to wake up to the sport this summer,” Sheldon said. “MLS is in pole position to capitalize on those sponsorship dollars because of their footprint in local markets, and obviously a growing national footprint.”
Andy Loughnane, President of Austin FC, which is entering its sixth season, told The News “corporate migration happening to Dallas, Houston and Austin should expand sponsorship opportunities for all the teams in Texas.”
Toyota has at least 14 partnerships with MLS teams, Lynch said. The automaker has been with half of those for more than seven years. Last fall, FC Dallas’ extension of its naming rights deal with Toyota Stadium was significant. David Christ, group vice president and general manager of the Toyota Division, said it’s a step for the franchise into a “new era.”
“We have so many new sponsors that are coming this way and either committed or showing interest,” Hunt said, “and especially with the new inventory that we have going into the building.”
FC Dallas ‘spared no expense’
Standing near pizza boxes stacked like a Jenga tower, Trent Meier took inventory of the growth of FC Dallas. A diehard supporter for two decades, he remembers FC Dallas playing in a stadium that was a third full, how Main Street in Frisco barely resembled the restaurant-laden terrain seen today.
Three new MLS stadiums — NYC FC, Chicago Fire and Inter Miami — will open over the next three years. Hunt expects FC Dallas’ $200 million renovation to reshape the fan experience at 21-year-old Toyota Stadium in 2028.
Hunt is intent on making it the nicest small soccer-specific stadium — with 22,500 seats — in MLS and potentially in the world. The project will include the installation of a 6,000-square-foot video board, the largest for a soccer-specific stadium in MLS. There will be three new stadium clubs, luxury suites, a new press box, a 59% increase in concession points-of-sale, a projected 26% increase in restroom facilities, and an upgraded field drainage system.
MLS’ Bacon said, “It’s clear, they spared no expense.”
MLS said more than 24 million fans attended matches the last two seasons, the two best seasons the league has ever had in attendance. And this past opening weekend saw 387,271 fans attend MLS matches, the highest all-time attendance for any MLS match weekend as it begins its 31st season.
The 75,673 fans who watched Miami FC-LAFC at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum marked the second-largest standalone crowd in MLS history. In Frisco, FC Dallas achieved its 35th consecutive sell-out in Saturday’s match, as 11,004 fans watched a victory over Toronto in a stadium that remains at reduced capacity during renovations.
The longest active streak of MLS sellouts belongs to Austin FC, which has sold out all 88 regular-season and playoff games in its five-year history at 20,500-seat Q2 Stadium heading into this season. Langhnane, the team president, said the appetite for soccer in Austin is strong, prompting the team to have a two-pronged approach to capitalize on World Cup enthusiasm.
Austin FC plans to host a large World Cup watch party so thousands can attend. The club will also have a 40-day event at a local bar.
“The ability to generate and elevate fan affinity around a World Cup, it’s not just an exercise in wishful thinking; there’s a lot of historical data to suggest that new fans are, in fact, going to be introduced to our sport because it’s a World Cup year,” Langhnane said.
“Austin’s already a soccer city, and the World Cup can help us scale that growth funnel. It’s all of our jobs. Whether you’re in Dallas, you’re in Houston or you’re in Austin, our job is to grow the awareness and the excitement into, let’s call it, MLS curiosity.”
‘That’s my team, that’s my sport’
An FC Dallas scarf draped around his neck, 19-year-old Sean Colley stood in front of a large television at the 24-hour tailgate, recounting how he fell in love with the team. Three years ago, he stumbled upon FC Dallas on the league’s new media partner, Apple TV.
“Watching Dallas score a goal,” he said, “it clicked in my brain: ‘That’s my team; this is my sport; that is who I am.’”
The Apple TV deal is key to MLS’s growth strategy. In 2022, the league signed a 10-year, $2.5 billion deal with the streaming giant. Viewership numbers have been opaque. But league commissioner Don Garber last year said MLS Season Pass averaged 120,000 unique viewers per match.
An additional paywall existed with MLS Season Pass, which no longer exists. All matches are now available to Apple TV subscribers.
“They don’t ever disclose how many subscribers they have,” Hunt said of Apple TV. “But I know it’s gigantic. So it’s easily accessible to people. I think our viewership numbers will be crazy.”
In November, it was reported that the parties are ending the deal after the 2028-2029 season, three and a half years earlier than originally planned.
Asked directly why MLS and Apple TV decided to end the deal early, MLS’s Bacon danced around the question like Messi eluding a defender, telling The News: “From a timing standpoint, having clarity and having the ability to manage the market from a media perspective is something that’s important to us. We played the long game from the start in our media process and our media strategy.
“We’re first mover in the digital space, and so having that clarity is beneficial to us, and it’s something that we did strategically, in partnership with Apple, but it’s something that’s going to benefit the league long term.”
Soccer executives said it’s advantageous financially for MLS — which also has a rights deal with FOX — to take its games to the open market on the heels of the World Cup, as well as the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, which figures to provide another soccer bounce.
Rothenberg said MLS will be well-positioned to significantly increase the rights fees they’ve been receiving, which he believes will enable the league to have more money to keep some of the young American players from going to Europe and bring in some established players from Europe.
More than ‘Messi, Messi, Messi’
Dennis McGowan, vice president of the Dallas Beer Guardians, was in his element at the 24-hour tailgate, which he helped organize.
Taking a wide-lens assessment of FC Dallas, he said the team has traditionally been a developmental club, seasoning players such as Ricardo Pepi, Bryan Reynolds and Tanner Tessman and then selling them. “It was built from inception to be a developmental franchise that buys and sells players, and the league is evolving beyond that,” McGowan said, “so they have to find ways to be able to balance that with winning.”
FC Dallas has made several playoff appearances in recent years. Its accomplishments include winning the so-called domestic double in 2016 with the Supporters’ Shield for the league’s best regular-season record and the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. And in 2010, it was the MLS Cup runner-up.
League-wise, Messi has sucked up a lot of the oxygen nationwide, attracting casual fans because of his global following. He has 18 brand endorsements and 629 million social media followers, according to SponsorUnited.
But there are other luminaries: Vancouver Whitecaps FC’s Thomas Müller (14 endorsements, 43 million followers), LAFC’s Son Heung-min (13 endorsements, 20 million followers). Minnesota United FC signing James Rodriguez was a coup. FC Dallas forwards Petar Musa (Croatia) and Louicius Don Deedson (Haiti) could both compete in the World Cup.
In MLS’s efforts to ride the Messi wave, McGowan said, they need to strike a balance.
“Everything around this league is Messi, Messi, Messi, Messi, Messi,” McGowan said. “Come see Messi on Apple TV. Come see Messi and friends. We’ve got Son, come see Son versus Messi. We’re going to rent out a big stadium where we have 90,000 people to come in and see Messi. What happens when Messi goes away? What happens when the World Cup ends?”
The move next year to the traditional European calendar — July to May with a winter break — will benefit the league. Hunt said it may take two years, but to expect 60 to 100 new players that MLS teams take on loan or buy. It couldn’t happen before because the seasons didn’t line up.
Whether MLS can be a top-five soccer league globally by 2029 is a complex question, said Bob Heere, a University of North Texas professor of sports management and director of UNT Sports Innovation Space. A complicating factor: MLS is the only soccer league in the world that has implemented competitive balance measures, he said. This means their bottom-ranked teams are often stronger than bottom-ranked teams in other leagues, but their top teams are weaker than top teams in competitions that might overall not be as strong. For instance, top teams in MLS are still significantly weaker than top teams in the Portuguese, Netherlands and Turkish competitions, he added.
“Yes, MLS has the potential to be a top-five league in the world by 2029, but in all likelihood, it would be a distant fifth, far behind the top-four leagues in England, Germany, Spain and Italy,” Heere said. “To put this in an American context: Because of the World Cup, MLS has the opportunity to become the Mountain West Conference within the collegiate landscape.”
Another barrier MLS looks to crack is entry into the mainstream sports conversation. Whereas a generation ago that meant leading ESPN’s SportsCenter, now it’s through social media platforms, said Drew Epperley of BigDSoccer.com. He said it’s critical MLS becomes the talk of podcasts and fodder for media personalities like ESPN’s Pat McAfee.
“You want those bigger entities that a lot of younger audiences skew to talking about it,” Epperley told The News. “You want them leading with it more in the next few years, and if they are not leading with it, then this World Cup was a total bust.”
Atlanta United’s Noftsinger also said it’s about capturing youth, but in another respect — playing the game. Then, she said, you need to develop talent to create a more exciting professional product, which then puts more money back into the youth game.
“I really think that this is like a full circle opportunity here,” she said.
The combination of homegrown talent and global stars, she said, could potentially propel MLS into a top-three U.S. sports league and top-five global soccer league.
Hunt echoed those sentiments, noting the team’s long success with its academy. He also recalled what his dad, Lamar Hunt, said before he died in 2006: “I put you in the right place with the stadium.”
When the younger Hunt looks in all directions, he said he sees potential for growth. To the north, population growth extending to the Oklahoma border; to the east he sees Fort Worth and Dallas essentially merging; to the south he sees new $87 million Mansfield Stadium.
If MLS fully capitalizes on its World Cup bounce, Hunt said, that vision looks like sold-out stadiums, heightened viewership and more kids playing the game.
“For this league to continue to be successful,” he said, “we got to develop domestic stars.”
‘Table is set’ for MLS
When a Chevrolet Brightspot 400 electric van pulled up to the 24-hour tailgate last Friday night, a bearded man stuck his head out of the driver’s side window and said, “Is this the drunk-fest?”
Overall, this was a family-friendly affair. And an hour before the match started came chants and smoke and flag waving. A 3-year-old girl banged a drum as the traditional procession for several dozen fans began under the darkening sky toward the stadium.
Inside Toyota Stadium, the large soccer tifo banner appeared, rolled out and held up by fans after the national anthem, a nod of encouragement for the team’s coach, Eric Quill.
As Kristick, who led the efforts to bring the World Cup to North America, said, the “table is set” for MLS. Valuations and sponsorship revenues are up, viewership is poised to grow, and more eyes are on soccer with the World Cup taking hold. The onus is on FC Dallas and MLS to capitalize.
What Diego Simeone thinks of Antoine Griezmann potentially joining Orlando City
Diego Simeone has responded to growing speculation linking Antoine Griezmann with a move to Orlando City.
The Atletico Madrid forward has once again found himself at the centre of transfer speculation, with reports suggesting Major League Soccer could soon become his next destination.
The noise around a potential departure has intensified as Orlando City’s interest continues to gather momentum.
Diego Simeone comments on Antoine Griezmann Orlando City rumours
Against that backdrop, Simeone’s stance offers clarity on how the club views Griezmann’s situation and the autonomy he holds over his own future.
In remarks shared by Fabrizio Romano, Diego Simeone addressed the Orlando City links directly: “I won’t speak for him. I care about him a lot.
“I already told him what I think: that he should always choose what’s best for himself. He’s in a place where he deserves to decide what he wants to do.”
The Atletico Madrid manager’s response reflects the long-standing relationship between the two men. Rather than shutting down the rumours, Simeone acknowledged that Griezmann has earned the right to determine the direction of his career.
Antoine Griezmann linked with Orlando City MLS switch
Reports in recent weeks have suggested that Orlando City are positioning themselves to secure Antoine Griezmann should he decide to leave La Liga.
The MLS side are understood to hold a strong interest in bringing the French forward to Florida as part of their long-term project.
Griezmann, now 34, has previously spoken about the appeal of playing in the United States before retirement, which adds credibility to the current speculation.
However, he remains under contract at Atletico Madrid, and any move would require careful negotiation given his continued importance to the squad.
For now, the message from Diego Simeone is measured and consistent. The decision belongs to Antoine Griezmann, and that reality shapes everything that follows.
Josh Sargent leaves Norwich City for Major League Soccer’s Toronto in messy departure
Josh Sargent has joined Toronto from Norwich City in England’s second-tier League Championship on, ending a messy situation in which the striker was exiled to the under-21 squad after he refused to play in an FA Cup match last month
February 27, 2026 at 3:35 p.m. EST1 minute ago
Josh Sargent joined Toronto from Norwich City in England’s second-tier League Championship on Friday, ending a difficult situation in which the striker was exiled to the under-21 squad after he refused to play in an FA Cup match last month.
Josh Sargent leaves Norwich City for Major League Soccer’s Toronto in messy departure
Josh Sargent joined Toronto from Norwich City in England’s second-tier League Championship on Friday, ending a difficult situation in which the striker was exiled to the under-21 squad after he refused to play in an FA Cup match last month.
Sargent, 26, was signed as a designated player through the 2030-31 Major League Soccer season. He had eight goals this season and 56 goals in 157 appearances with the Canaries overall.
“Regardless of the manner of his departure, Josh has been a significant part of the club’s recent story, contributing greatly and captaining the team on many occasions,” Norwich sporting director Ben Knapper said in a statement. “He now moves on and we wish him well for his next step, and for his future beyond.”
Sargent is a Missouri native who signed with Germany’s Werder Bremen in 2018 and joined Norwich three years later. A member of the 2022 U.S. World Cup team, he appears to be behind Folarin Balogun, Haji Wright, Ricardo Pepi and Patrick Agyemang in the competition for forward spots on the 2026 World Cup roster.
“He brings high-level experience in some of the strongest leagues in the world and international pedigree at just 26 years old. He is a proven goal scorer, with a winning mentality and the intelligence that will lead our attack for years to come,” Toronto general manager Jason Hernandez said. “Josh will just begin to enter the prime of his career while representing our club and our city.”
Sargent has five goals in 29 international appearances, scoring in his U.S. debut against Bolivia on May 28, 2018. He played in all three group stage matches at the 2022 World Cup.
But he hasn’t scored an international goal since November 2019 and was not on the U.S. roster for last summer’s CONCACAF Gold Cup. His last international appearance was when he started in a September friendly against South Korea.
Toronto acquired St. Louis’ right of first refusal for Sargent in exchange for $500,000 in General Allocation Money over the next two years and additional funds if performance metrics are met.
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Copyright © 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.
Major League Soccer’s New England Revolution postpone their home opener because field won’t be ready
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Major League Soccer’s New England Revolution postponed their March 7 home opener against Houston because the field won’t be ready at Gillette Stadium.
New England now intends to plays its first home game on March 15 against Cincinnati.
“Due to this week’s historic winter weather in the northeast, the harvesting and delivery of the stadium’s new natural grass field has been delayed,” the team said in a statement Friday. “With field-related stadium infrastructure preparations completed on schedule, the Gillette Stadium field crew is prepared to install the grass when it arrives ahead of the Revolution’s new MLS home opener.”
New England opened with a 4-1 loss at Nashville last weekend and is at the New York Red Bulls on Saturday.
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Major League Soccer’s New England Revolution postpone their home opener because field won’t be ready
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Major League Soccer’s New England Revolution postponed their March 7 home opener against Houston because the field won’t be ready at Gillette Stadium.
New England now intends to plays its first home game on March 15 against Cincinnati.
“Due to this week’s historic winter weather in the northeast, the harvesting and delivery of the stadium’s new natural grass field has been delayed,” the team said in a statement Friday. “With field-related stadium infrastructure preparations completed on schedule, the Gillette Stadium field crew is prepared to install the grass when it arrives ahead of the Revolution’s new MLS home opener.”
New England opened with a 4-1 loss at Nashville last weekend and is at the New York Red Bulls on Saturday.
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AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer
Copyright © 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.
New MLS Apple TV Data Is Promising, But Don’t Jump To Conclusions
On Thursday, Major League Soccer announced that 9.7 million viewers had watched opening weekend matches across all platforms, an increase of 59% from the year before.
At face value, those are promising numbers. Taken in more nuanced context, like most of the data from this new streaming era, they still don’t tell us a whole lot.
Apple TV and Oranges
Last weekend’s action was the first since MLS partnered with Apple TV that was available to all Apple TV+ subscribers, rather than only to those who bought a separate MLS Season Pass service.
It also featured arguably the most marketable single regular season match of the entire season in terms of star power, when Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami took on Son Heung-min’s LAFC at the LA Coliseum on Saturday night.
Further, the figure still isn’t comparable to the standard Nielsen TV data we’re used to. That’s because it represents the entire global lineal TV and streaming audience, whereas Nielsen numbers represent only domestic lineal TV. And for TV advertisers, not all viewers are equal, given the different spending power that exists in different national economies.
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Negotiating Leverage?
Lastly, this new viewership disclosure comes against the backdrop of a recently amended and shortened agreement between MLS and Apple TV. Their pact now expires following the 2028-29 season. It was originally set to run through the end of the year 2032.
We don’t know whether the reported 59% jump is primarily the result of removing the MLS Season Pass paywall, or if it also represents an organic jump in interest in the league. We do, however, know that the decision to remove that paywall and shorten the agreement happened in concert. And with the league now set to negotiate a new rights package to begin with the 2029-2030 season, it seems likely MLS pushed for the removal of the Season Pass paywall in order to drive up raw viewership data and its negotiating leverage.
The data released Thursday comes after three years of relatively sparse viewership information. Some of that is understandable, given the industry-wide struggle to present meaningful streaming data without the emergency of a standard measurement similar to Nielsen’s TV ratings. Nonetheless, it means the data that does emerge is more subject to the whims of the rightsholder. In other words, we’re more likely to get the flattering numbers, and less likely to get the troubling ones.
Messi, Son, and Mean vs Median
Lastly, while we know there were 9.7 million viewers, representing a 59% increase from a year ago, we don’t know the distribution of that audience across matches – i.e. whether fans are tuning in to MLS, or just to Messi and Son.
Another data point suggests it’s at least partly the latter.
The 387,271 fans that attended opening weekend games was the largest figure ever for a single match weekend. But there are two caveats:
This is only the second opening weekend in MLS history to feature 15 games, since the league only expanded to 30 teams to start 2025.
Nearly 20% of that attendance figure came from the Messi-Son showdown seen by a historic crowd of 75,673 at the LA Memorial Coliseum.
The median attendance of the weekend came in Vancouver, where 23,546 fans watched the Whitecaps defeat Real Salt Lake 1-0. That’s a very solid number, but hardly out of line with MLS norms, and a bit beneath the mean weekend attendance of 25,818.
If the Messi vs. Son showdown pulled up the overall attendance average by roughly 10%, it’s safe to assume it had a similar, and perhaps even larger, impact on viewership numbers.
Inter Miami invited to White House to mark MLS Cup win – source
Inter Miami has received an invitation to attend the White House to celebrate the team’s 2025 Major League Soccer Cup triumph, a club source confirmed to ESPN.
Though Inter Miami is expected to attend the reception next week during their visit to Washington, D.C. when traveling to face D.C. United, details have not been finalized.
Inter Miami would follow the longstanding tradition in American sport of commemorating a league title with a White House reception.
D.C. United stood as the first MLS team to attend the White House in 1998 following their Cup triumph, while the LA Galaxy visited on multiple occasions by winning in 2011, 2012 and 2014.
Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham visited the White House with the Galaxy in 2012 to celebrate the league trophy.
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The Herons lifted the 2025 MLS Cup on December 6, defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale to mark the team’s first ever league trophy.
Though the team previously lifted the Supporters’ Shield and Leagues Cup trophy, the MLS Cup remained an unachieved target until finally clinching the title last season.
German star Marco Reus extends contract with LA Galaxy through 2027
CARSON, Calif. (AP) — German midfielder Marco Reus has extended his contract with the LA Galaxy through December 2027.
The Galaxy announced the extension Saturday for the 36-year-old Reus, who joined the Major League Soccer club in August 2024 after 12 successful years with Borussia Dortmund.
Reus immediately played an important role in the Galaxy’s surge to their league-record sixth MLS Cup championship in late 2024, and he has been largely outstanding when healthy during his stateside tenure. He has 22 goal contributions in 42 matches, including five goals and nine assists last season.
“Marco brings an incredible level of quality, experience and leadership to our group,” Galaxy general manager Will Kuntz said in a statement. “His professionalism and standards elevate everyone around him, both on the pitch and in the locker room. We’re excited that Marco will continue to be a part of the Galaxy family.”
Before he joined the Galaxy, Reus scored 170 goals from 2012 to 2024 for his hometown club and was twice selected as the German Footballer of the Year. Dortmund reached two Champions League finals while Reus became only the third player in Bundesliga history to have 100 goals and 100 assists.
Reus also was a regular for the German national team for more than a decade, but untimely injuries prevented him from playing in three of the four World Cup tournaments during that stretch.
Reus has been the Galaxy’s captain for two matches early this year, and he assisted on their first goal of the season last week.
___
5 best MLS candidates besides Lionel Messi to win 2026 FIFA World Cup’s Golden Boot
Son Heung-Min got an early start on soccer’s North America showcase, arriving from Tottenham in a league-record deal worth a reported $26.5 million last year. The South Korean captain immediately redefined the league’s star-chasing ceiling. He posted 12 goals and three assists in 13 games, including the 2025 playoffs. Fans will never forget that stunning free-kick equalizer against Vancouver. LAFC ultimately fell short of the MLS Cup, but Son has plenty left in the tank.
Two assists in two games to start 2026 provide that evidence. Sure, the 33-year-old’s legs are not quite as spry these days, but the LAFC star is a national hero. Still one of the most dangerous wingers in the world, Son is surely going to lead the Opening Match lines versus whoever survives the UEFA World Cup Knockout gauntlet.
Getting up for Mexico in Guadalajara for the second game will test Son’s cardio as much as the mental strength. His heart is undeniable. Son (140 caps, 54 goals) remains a dynamic force capable of dismantling defenses with pace, finishing, and vision. If South Korea advances deep into the tournament, experience in high-pressure environments would likely propel him to Golden Boot contention. Son has that in spades and keeps popping up in the right places for LAFC.
James Rodriguez seeks redemption
Rodriguez is Colombia’s second all-time leading scorer with 31 goals and 41 assists in 122 caps. He won the 2014 Golden Boot in Brazil, leading to a huge transfer to Real Madrid. The former Los Cafeteros captain is on the outside looking in as well, hence the winter window MLS move. Stops at Bayern Munich, Everton, Olympiacos, São Paulo, and Club León had worn the tread down on the tires.
Néstor Lorenzo needs a long look at Rodriguez’s form with Minnesota United. Sure, his lethal set pieces and vision remain well above average. Those traits will come in handy when trying to break down a bunkered defense or chasing a goal. His 34-year-old legs will not last long in Estadio Azteca against Uzbekistan, though, so coming on as a 60-minute super sub in every game is the best bet to bag a goal a game.
Miguel Almirón’s new magic
Almirón returned to Atlanta United in January 2025, completing a reunion with the club that first made him a star. For the last act of their international careers, Tata Martino is back to try to recapture that magic on the international stage. Yup, that’s right. The same coach who steered Atlanta to the 2018 MLS Cup with Almirón (74 caps, 9 goals, 5 assists) and Joseph Martinez is back with a new blueprint built for knockout competition.
Atlanta United’s dynamic winger led the Five Stripes with 12 goal contributions (six goals, six assists) in 31 starts in 2025. The 32-year old’s effect on a game is still profound, providing the spark and leadership Martino needs. Almirón played 15 CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying matches as Paraguay ended a 16-year drought to qualify for the tournament.
Premier pace and ability to cut inside from the right flank make him a nightmare matchup for any defender. The USMNT will find out personally on June 12.
Joseph Paintsil pushing the pace
The Ghanaian winger has been one of the Los Angeles Galaxy’s most reliable performers (24 goals, 16 assists in 58 games) since arriving. Arguably the fastest player on the planet and a growing force for the Black Stars, Joseph Paintsil is one of the league’s most exciting players as well. His ability to unlock defenses off the dribble makes him a consistent threat, and if Ghana can get him into space, he has the finishing quality to make a lasting impression. The problem has been working through the occasional knock.
Paintsil has been involved inconsistently with Ghana’s national team (17 caps, 8 starts) but is starting to come on strong in MLS action. Earning a spot on the 26-man roster seems a foregone conclusion if finally fully healthy. The 28-year-old represents the elder part of a new generation hoping to restore Ghana’s status as a tournament contender.
Petar Musa keeps Croatia cool
The FC Dallas forward is on the bubble, but Petar Musa’s MLS form may force manager Zlatko Dalić’s hand. Croatia needs someone cool in front of goal to clear the group stage. Musa has been prolific in MLS, bagging 37 goals and 10 assists in 58 appearances so far. Clinical finishing and aerial ability are not in doubt, and every country needs those qualities during a World Cup run.
With two goals in two games to start the 2026 MLS season, the 27-year-old could be the focal point of an attack that needs to move on from Luka Modric. Croatia traditionally spreads scoring responsibility across multiple players, but Musa’s penalty-box instincts and physical presence give him a chance to emerge as the team’s starting striker.
Few players enter the tournament with Musa’s combination of form and opportunity. Being in a group with England, Ghana, and Panama is perfect tactically. Musa might have to steal one singlehandedly against the Three Lions, but the other two games should be wide open with plenty of opportunities. If Croatia navigates a favorable knockout path and Musa capitalizes on defensive lapses from opponents, he could rack up 5-7 goals, echoing James Rodríguez’s 2014 breakout or Thomas Müller’s 2010 haul.
Sports Advertisers Want New Ballgame With Aggressive Sponsorships
When is a two-point conversion really a touchdown?
For the brewers of Dos Equis, multiple times per season.
Since last year, Dos Equis has arranged to become part of the action during select college-football games telecast across ESPN, ABC, SEC and ACC Network getting special on-screen graphics and other elements whenever one of the teams tries to “Go for Dos” and score a two-point conversion. This year, the Heineken brand expanded its support and is expected to cover nearly two thirds of the plays broadcast this season, compared with just under half a year ago. To be sure, there are TV commercials, too.
“We’re not about just interrupting sport. We’re about being a part of it,” says Allison Payne, Heineken USA’s CMO, during a recent interview. The concept helps create a feeling of “doing the unexpected to make life a bit more interesting, and, obviously, make the game more interesting.”
Football commercials and beer go together like, well, what did we just say? But more advertisers like Dos Equis are pressing TV networks to carve out new elements from games during which they can hawk their wares. Such stuff is significantly more complicated than just running an ad and arranging for one of the announcers to bark out “this game is brought to you by….” And TV-sports outlets expect to see a significant uptick in requests for special sponsorships, particularly as sports take on new importance during the industry’s streaming wars, with games representing one of the few programming formats left that can still attract a large audience of simultaneous viewers.
Madison Avenue is pouring new dollars into sports-TV. Disney earlier this year said it sold nearly $4 billion in ad time tied to sports during the industry’s recent “upfront” sales market, when TV networks try to sell the bulk of their commercial inventory. NBCUniversal said its sports properties saw an uptick of 20% in new sponsors during the annual haggle. Amazon’s Prime Video suggested sales tied to sports “provided incremental volume growth for us” during the market.
In a different era, advertisers would use their big budgets to procure similar stuff during primetime dramas and comedies. In the streaming era, “there are fewer meaningful opportunities to do this in entertainment” programming, notes Dan Lovinger, a former head of sports and Olympics sales at NBCU who now leads Lov of the Game Advisors, a consultancy. In years past, advertisers bought sports commercials to reach large audiences. They still do, to be sure, but there appears to be some pressure building to engage more significantly with fans. “Dollars follow eyeballs, and so if the eyeballs are moving to sports, the dollars and creativity will also follow,” Lovinger says.
At Main Street Sports Group, which operates a collection of regional sports outlets known as the FanDuel Sports Network, executives have been working on what they call “trigger ads” that surface at specific sports moments, like a home run or a stolen base. “Is there an ad experience that we can do when there are like three seconds left on the shot clock, or any time that there is a three-pointer or a steal or something?” asks Jim Keller, executive vice president of advertising and sponsorship sales for the FanDuel networks, during an interview. Executives are “focused on finding a way for us to create sponsor moments that actually add to the viewers’ enjoyment of the game.”
Advertisers aren’t guaranteed to hit a marketing home run. Indeed, the live, spontaneous nature of a sports telecast means that tying ad messages to specific moments can be fraught with challenge. Rocket Cos. earlier this year ran an ad during Fox’s broadcast of Super Bowl LIX that used a version of John Denver’s “Country Roads, Take Me Home” to talk about Americans striving for home ownership. Marketing executives then tried to get the crowd watching the live game at New Orleans Caesar’s Superdome to sing along — with decidedly mixed results. When Fox came back to live broadcasting following the commercial break that contained an ad from Rocket, many fans appeared to either ignore the music or look puzzled as to why they should take part.
Fox and the NFL initially turned down the live, in-stadium singing session, believing that there would be more control around the concept if crowds were taped singing the song during pre-game coverage when the network was in commercial breaks. The advertiser insisted on trying to create a live spectacle. Once Fox cut to the commercial break that included the Rocket ad, the stadium crowd as invited to participate via use of promotional announcements, a D.J. and the facility’s various screens.
Getting viewers to associate Dos Equis with the two-point conversions requires “high-level coordination,” says Payne. Ther are traditional commercials, and football announcer Chris Fowler has been enlisted to help emphasize the sponsorship. “We have signage. We have college football team sponsorship, We have tailgate activation,” says Payne. “We are very good at bringing brand experiences to life, but it requires quite an in-depth coordination” between Heineken, Disney, ESPN and Dos Equis’ media agency, Dentsu.
Disney has become more open to similar requests, says Mike Denby, senior vice president of sales for the company. “We believe the more that we do integrations, the more that we elevate brands, it drives results,” he says. At the same time, he adds, the company can’t oversaturate the playing field with dozens of similar ideas during a single game.
Creating other bespoke ad concepts may be as hard as winning the games themselves. Sports remains “an unpredictable format,” notes Lovinger, and advertisers will want guarantees that a special appearance close to a goal, touchdown, stolen base, or foul that can’t always be given. What’s more, some leagues can be very careful about how much space they give advertisers as their games are being played. “There are leagues that are less restrictive in terms of how the broadcasters can access inventory and you’ll probably see more of it there, “says Lovinger.
Dos Equis remains undaunted. “My long-term vision is like, can you imagine whenever two-point conversion is in the cards that the whole stadium is chanting ‘Go for Dos?’ asks Payne. “That’s the Nirvana. I feel like we can get there.”
Trump backs ‘powerful caps’ on college athlete pay
WASHINGTON — President Trump wants “very powerful caps” to limit college athlete salaries so that universities won’t “go out of business.”
Trump told ESPN host Pat McAfee that he fears that “lesser” sports also are being scrapped due to the newly allowed practice of directly paying athletes, which has been allowed since July on top of name, image and likeness (NIL) sponsorships by companies and booster clubs permitted since 2021.
“It is a very serious problem because even football, when they give quarterbacks $12 million, $13 million, $14 million — I read a couple of them — and all of a sudden you’re going to see it’s going to be out of control, and even rich colleges are going to go bust,” Trump said in a Tuesday interview.
“They had the old way. They gave scholarships, and they did lots of good things. But there could be some form of payments, but… look, the NFL, and all of you know, all teams, they have caps. You don’t really have that in college sports,” the president said.
“When the guard comes along that weighs 350 pounds and he’s phenomenal, and they say, ‘That’s going to make the difference between having a great team and a lousy team’, and they give him $10 million — that’s going to start happening pretty soon — all of a sudden you’re going to have NFL-type payrolls.”
The reform allowing for direct payment of players by universities came through a court-approved settlement involving the NCAA, with an estimated initial annual cap of $20.5 million per player. Without changes, the salary cap is expected to rise to $33 million over the next decade, CBS Sports reported.
Trump, whose administration this year paused federal grants to prominent universities to force policy changes, added, “colleges don’t make that much money, even the most successful, so they’re not going to be able to do this. Bad things are going to happen unless they figure this out…
“And frankly, the college football, it’s very big. But as big as it is, if they don’t do some very powerful caps, these colleges are all going to go out of business no matter how rich they are.”
Trump floated Nick Saban, the retired longtime football coach at the University of Alabama, as a potential point person to lead a group to devise new salary caps.
“I don’t want to use any particular sport, because it’s, you know, degrading. But they are really terminating a lot of sports… you would call them lesser sports, but big sports, good sports, and sports where they have tremendous interest, they’re getting rid of them,” Trump added.
“A lot of the lesser sports are being totally terminated. You know that? It’s a shame. It was almost like a training ground for the Olympics, and a lot of those training grounds are being lost.”
Mavs honoring VP of corporate sponsorships Billy Phillips as he retires after 33 years
A wave of emotion overcame Billy Phillips as he went through a list of acknowledgements that included his Dallas Mavericks colleagues, corporate sponsorship partners and immediate family.
Phillips, the Mavericks’ longtime vice president of corporate sponsorships, was the final voice to speak on Saturday to commemorate his retirement after 33 years of tenure with the franchise. It was a celebration inside the Executive Lounge at American Airlines Center to honor one of the most respected employees in the team’s 45-year history.
“Many of you know his Dallas Mavericks legacy and what he’s done for this community, but what he’s done for the overall sports business community in North Texas is unparalleled,” said Gina Miller, the Mavericks’ new chief communications officer.
Phillips’ storied sports legacy in the Dallas-Fort Worth area didn’t start in basketball. The Long Island, N.Y., native played soccer as a goalkeeper from 1980 to 1981 for the Dallas Tornado in the North American Soccer League. He played an instrumental role with the Dallas Sidekicks, both as a player from 1984 to 1987 and manager from 1987 to 1996.
Phillips helped establish soccer in North Texas in the 1970s and 1980s, and the momentum led to Dallas being the host city for the 1994 FIFA World Cup. The quadrennial international men’s soccer tournament will return in 2026, with AT&T Stadium hosting nine matches in Arlington, including a semi-final game. FC Dallas president Dan Hunt said Phillips played a role in the Cup’s return.
Phillips joined the Mavericks in 1992 as a senior director of corporate sponsorship. He was promoted to vice president in 2018, the role he serves in currently until his final day on Dec. 23. As an athlete, he can’t help but reflect on the team’s lone championship in 2011 as a standout moment, but the people he worked with is what he’ll cherish the most.
“At the end of the day, it’s relationships,” Phillips said. “I have so many amazing relationships from people who work for the Mavericks and partners that I’ve worked with now…It’s always the people who’s the most important part of my job.”
Several influential people around the Mavericks spoke during Phillips’ retirement ceremony, including minority shareholder Mark Cuban and CEO Rick Welts. Co-interim general manager Michael Finley was also in attendance.
“This man can sell,” Cuban said. “Billy has been a rock, not just for the young salespeople, but for the whole organization. When things were up, when things were down, Billy was steady. Billy has this calming influence that he brings to anybody that he’s met, but he also can sell. What’s the rule, Billy?”
“If you’re talking to someone, you better have a check,” Phillips said.
The celebration didn’t stop during the pregame. Phillips was honored during halftime of Saturday’s game with a tribute video, which included cameos by Dirk Nowitzki and former Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle. Mavericks coach Jason Kidd began his pregame news conference with a congratulatory message for Phillips.
“I want to congratulate Billy Phillips,” Kidd said. “He’s retiring after 33 years with the Mavs. He’s a big influence in sports here in Dallas. Goalkeeper for the Dallas Sidekicks. He did everything and he’s a big reason why soccer is coming to Dallas for the Cup.”
Twitter/X: @MikeACurtis2
TKO Stock Slides despite Receiving a New Street-High Price Target
TKO Group Holdings (TKO) had a standout year in 2025, thanks to major media rights deals and a surge in sponsorships. In fact, the sports and entertainment company signed agreements to broadcast UFC and Zuffa Boxing with Paramount (PSKY) and licensed WWE content through Endeavor Group. These deals were big enough that TKO raised its outlook for the year, and the stock climbed by more than 50%, thereby making it one of the top performers in its sector.
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Importantly, analysts believe there’s more room to grow, even after this big run. For instance, BTIG analyst Tyler DiMatteo noted that 2026 looks promising for both the sports and entertainment industry and TKO specifically. While he does expect some short-term ups and downs due to the stock’s recent surge, he’s comfortable giving TKO a higher valuation. He points to strong consumer interest in live events and what many call the “experience economy” as key reasons why the company should keep performing well.
TKO is also betting on newer trends, such as prediction markets. It signed a multi-year deal with Polymarket that will apply to UFC and Zuffa Boxing in an attempt to increase fan engagement. Interestingly, that market was worth $1.4 billion in 2024 and could grow to $95.5 billion by 2035. As a result, DiMatteo gave TKO a Buy rating and raised his price target to a street high of $250 per share.
Is TKO Stock a Good Buy?
Turning to Wall Street, analysts have a Strong Buy consensus rating on TKO stock based on 14 Buys, one Hold, and zero Sells assigned in the past three months, as indicated by the graphic below. Furthermore, the average TKO price target of $225.73 per share implies 7.9% upside potential.
See more TKO analyst ratings
How shared values drove Ferrari’s first crypto partnership: Interview with BingX
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The multi-year agreement between Formula One racing team Scuderia Ferrari and crypto exchange BingX represents the Italian team’s first partnership with a crypto exchange.
For Vivien Lin, Chief Product Officer at BingX, the connection is built on performance rather than just visibility. She notes that Ferrari’s “engineering excellence and uncompromising standards” mirror the platform’s own approach, stating that the goal is to demonstrate that a crypto exchange can operate with the “same discipline, transparency and ambition” as the iconic automotive brand.
In this interview, Lin sheds light on the strategic vision behind the collaboration, the maturity of the crypto landscape and how shared values with Ferrari are influencing BingX’s global roadmap.
Cointelegraph: How is the convergence of high-performance sports and financial technology reshaping global marketing strategies?
Vivien Lin: High-performance sports attract fans who are deeply committed and loyal, much like the community we’ve built at BingX with our 40 million users. In Formula 1, this engagement is clear. Recent research shows that 94% of fans plan to follow the sport five years from now, and 86% watch at least 16 races each season.
This kind of loyalty gives us a unique chance for us to build lasting relationships, not just short-term awareness. In my experience, it’s rare to find a partnership that fits so well. I also believe that sponsorship shapes how fans experience the sport.
The same research found that about three-quarters of fans think sponsors make Formula 1 better, and one in three are more likely to buy from F1 partners. For Gen Z, that number rises to 40%. For BingX, this trend means our marketing is now more focused on values, performance and long-term relevance, not just visibility.
CT: Why are elite sporting institutions increasingly looking toward the cryptocurrency sector for strategic alliances?
VL: In our experience, elite sports organizations have always focused on progress and winning. To stay ahead, they keep evolving, adopt new technologies and look to the future. The crypto sector and BingX share this forward-thinking approach, so there is a unique purpose behind these partnerships.
Furthermore, 2026 marks a change. As the industry grows, crypto is now about infrastructure, security and global access — not just experimentation. Sports organizations see this obvious shift and want to work with partners who are leading the way. These partnerships show a shared belief that responsible innovation can create lasting value for people around the world.
CT: What does the evolving relationship between Formula 1 and digital assets signal about the maturity of the crypto industry?
VL: The growing relationship between Formula 1 and digital assets is a strong signal that the crypto industry is entering a more mature phase. One that is defined less by speculation and more by credibility, infrastructure and long-term brand building.
Both Formula 1 and crypto are built on resilience. Progress is never linear. There are moments of rapid innovation, periods of pressure and times when patience matters more than speed. After seven years in this industry, I’ve seen crypto evolve through multiple cycles, shaped by both breakthroughs and hard lessons. Formula 1 understands this reality deeply.
From BingX’s perspective, Formula 1 represents the highest standards of performance, precision and trust. It is a global sport governed by rigorous regulation and scrutiny. The fact that teams and stakeholders are increasingly selective about their partners reflects how the crypto industry itself is changing.
Partnerships today are about values, governance and the ability to perform at scale. As the industry matures, we are seeing leading crypto platforms focus on compliance, security and user protection, foundational elements that are essential for long-term adoption.
The presence of digital asset companies in Formula 1 signals that these platforms are now capable of meeting the expectations of world-class institutions and global audiences. It also reflects a move away from short-term hype toward sustainable engagement and education.
CT: How does becoming a cryptocurrency partner for Ferrari differentiate BingX from its competitors?
VL: This partnership is significant not only because of Ferrari’s global brand and history, but also because it marks their first collaboration with a cryptocurrency exchange, which we do not take lightly. For BingX, it reinforces our position as a top-of-mind brand in crypto and reflects how far we’ve come as a platform.
For example, we were the first major exchange to introduce copy trading, which helped us become recognized as a top 5 derivatives platform, and today we are the first all-in-AI crypto exchange, with a $300 million commitment to implementing AI across our platform. It shows that we are seen as a long-term partner capable of meeting the standards of one of motorsport’s most iconic teams.
CT: What specific shared values between BingX and Scuderia Ferrari form the foundation of this multi-year collaboration?
VL: At the heart of this collaboration is a shared mindset of pioneering breakthroughs and redefining what’s possible. Both BingX and Scuderia Ferrari operate in environments where precision, performance and continuous innovation matter deeply.
Ferrari’s culture of constant innovation, race after race and season after season, closely mirrors how BingX approaches product innovation and platform evolution. We also share a long-term view that goes beyond short-term wins. There is a strong mutual respect for data, technology and discipline, as well as a belief that innovation should always be purposeful.
On the product side, this philosophy translates directly into action. Just as Ferrari continuously refines performance to push limits on the track, BingX is committed to helping traders go beyond their current potential through continuous platform upgrades, BingX Academy and AI-driven innovation.
CT: How do you plan to turn this partnership into tangible benefits for the BingX trading community?
VL: For us, partnerships like this are about delivering a more premium experience for our users. We are intentional about who we align with because those relationships reflect how we build our platform and our community.
Our partnerships with globally respected teams like Chelsea Football Club and Ferrari are not coincidences. They represent excellence, discipline and a commitment to performing at the highest level.
For our trading community, this translates into elevated experiences, stronger engagement and a brand they can trust and feel proud to be part of. Whether markets are moving fast or slowing down, our focus remains on quality, reliability and long-term value. These partnerships, along with racing-inspired campaigns, race-week activations and limited-edition experiences, reinforce that we are building BingX to operate at a global, premium standard.
CT: How does aligning with the most iconic team in motorsport reinforce BingX’s commitment to security and technological excellence?
VL: Ferrari’s reputation is built on precision, reliability and performance under pressure. Partnering with a team of that caliber reinforces how we think about building BingX and our own commitment to building secure, resilient and high-performing systems.
For years, we’ve focused on creating a resilient, AI-native platform, with intelligence embedded directly into the trading experience and a long-term $300 million commitment to AI.
In crypto, trust is built through infrastructure, not promises. We treat security as a foundation, supported by proof-based protections such as a $150 million Shield Fund and 100% proof-of-reserves.
This partnership reflects confidence in our technology and governance, and it sends a clear message that innovation and security are not trade-offs. They must work together to create a platform that can perform at a global, world-class standard.
CT: How will this alliance influence BingX’s strategic roadmap and expansion plans over the next few years?
VL: This partnership builds on a foundation we’ve already established. With over 40 million users globally and a position among the top five derivatives trading platforms, BingX has reached a scale where brand trust, consistency and global relevance matter more than ever.
Our multi-year partnership with Chelsea Football Club reflects that same thinking. Whether on the pitch or in the market, we align with teams that operate at the highest level of performance.
Working with Ferrari represents the next stage of that journey. It opens new opportunities for global storytelling, deeper regional engagement and innovation across markets. More importantly, it aligns with our long-term view of crypto as part of global finance and culture, not a niche industry.
CT: What role will this partnership play in BingX’s long-term goal to redefine standards within the cryptocurrency landscape?
Partnerships like this help set a new benchmark for what crypto brands can represent. They show that it’s possible to combine innovation with discipline, and ambition with responsibility.
Our goal is to help move the industry forward by building trust, raising standards and focusing on long-term value. If crypto wants to be part of global culture, it must meet the standards of the world’s most demanding institutions. This partnership is our commitment to that future.
NCAA D1 Cabinet Approves Jersey Patch Sponsorships in College Sports
If you felt that the influx of NIL and other cash influences had already thoroughly corrupted college sports, you may want to brace yourself.
The NCAA Division I Cabinet voted to approve jersey patch sponsorships in college sports. The new ruling will take effect on August 1, allowing patches to be placed on uniforms just in time for the start of the 2026 college football season.
“College sports are in an exciting new era of increased financial benefits for student-athletes, and the Cabinet’s vote today reflects the ongoing commitment of Division I members to drive additional revenues and fully fund those benefits,” said Illinois Athletics Director and D-I Cabinet chair, Josh Whitman, in a statement.
“This also continues the NCAA’s efforts to expand flexibility in areas of NCAA rules, thereby allowing schools and conferences to set standards that reflect their values and serve their unique needs. This important policy change is another step forward in advancing that philosophy and providing members with increased flexibility.”
As On3 reports, “Under the new legislation, schools will be able to place up to two additional commercial logos on uniforms and one additional logo on equipment during both the preseason and postseason. They can also add another logo on uniforms and apparel during conference championships.
“Patches are limited to a maximum of 4 square inches per logo, according to the NCAA. The legislation is in effect for non-NCAA championship competition.”
In anticipation of the rule’s passing, several schools, most notably LSU and UNLV, have already inked sponsorship deals.
The move will undoubtedly accelerate the commercialization of the game-day experience. In the last two years, fans in the stands and those watching at home have seen the emergence of company logos on the field and on the court, resulting from the House v. NCAA settlement approval.
Adding sponsorship patches to jerseys will create yet another revenue stream for college athletics, likely adding tens of millions of dollars annually.
Watch Brands Increasingly Turn to Sports for Spark
Could sports be the tonic that revives the luxury watch market?
Over the past few months, Swiss watch brands have lined up to announce multimillion-dollar deals with elite professional sports leagues and athletes, hoping to leverage their star power and the emotions of sports fandom to fire up a cooling market.
Last week, Breitling became the latest high-end brand to hitch its wagon to Formula 1, signing a deal with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1 Team, adding to a deal it announced in August to be the official timepiece partner of the National Football League (N.F.L.).
In November, Norqain became what it called the Official Luxury Sports Watch of the National Hockey League (N.H.L.), and in January Frederique Constant introduced its first sports sponsorship, connecting with the nascent Pro Padel League, in which athletes compete in padel, a game often described as a cross between squash and tennis.
Brands such as Rolex, Omega and TAG Heuer have built their profiles on ties with sports, but in today’s saturated market, can sports sponsorships really help brands achieve their goals?
Fears of foreign influence spark bipartisan crackdown on college sports funding
Student-athletes are increasingly exploring name, image and likeness contracts to benefit from their emerging stardoms. But lawmakers want to make sure those deals don’t provide loopholes for foreign adversaries to exert their influence in the United States.
Utah Rep. Blake Moore introduced the No Foreign NIL Funds Act on Tuesday that would implement a number of restrictions banning foreign governments and adversarial entities from investing in U.S. college sports. The bill would mostly apply to NIL contracts, but it would also extend to sponsorships, media rights deals, hosting amateur athletic conferences, and other joint ventures.
“College sports are woven into American campus life, local communities, and family traditions. But allowing foreign entities to funnel money and sponsorships into college athletics through NIL deals risks undermining the integrity of the game and exposing universities to unintended foreign influence or national security concerns,” Moore, a former student-athlete himself, said in a statement. “NIL should be used to support college athletes, not as a backdoor for moving foreign money into American institutions.”
Since NIL contracts have been accepted in recent years, lawmakers have struggled to adopt comprehensive laws regulating those deals. As a result, there are no federal restrictions banning foreign governments from funding those contracts so long as the agreements are cleared through a list of requirements settled in the House vs. NCAA lawsuit in 2024.
That settlement now allows each school to pay its athletes up to $20.5 million per year, which works out to about 22% of the average athletic department revenue at Power Four schools.
However, many of the organizations that coordinate NIL contracts operate as limited liability companies, or LLCs, that do not require donor lists to be made public. That has raised national security concerns among some lawmakers who said adversarial countries could quietly pour money into a university’s sports program and try to build political influence or gain leverage.
The bill would go beyond those NIL contracts to also block foreign countries from investing in collegiate athletic streams, and it would prohibit entering into contracts with individual universities, media rights distributors, bowl games or postseason football organizations.
Bill would have exceptions for foreign NIL donations
The legislation would carve out some exceptions to allow members of NATO, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland to still participate in those contracts.
Moore pointed to recent incidents in which college football coaches have engaged in foreign trips for lobbying or fundraising as well as some athletic conferences who are finalizing plans to organize tournaments in foreign countries.
The bill has garnered the support of bipartisan lawmakers, and even has the backing of Utah State University’s athletic director, who said it’s crucial “to create a safe and sustainable future.”
“Utah State Athletics firmly supports our student-athletes and their ability to seek name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities through the appropriate channels,” USU athletic director Cameron Walker said. “However, the origin of these sources is critical for NIL to function effectively and operate in the best interest of our university, state, and student-athletes. We are thankful for Congressman Moore’s work in this area and support his efforts to create a safe and sustainable future.”
Sports Advertisers Want New Ballgame With Aggressive Sponsorships
When is a two-point conversion really a touchdown?
For the brewers of Dos Equis, multiple times per season.
Since last year, Dos Equis has arranged to become part of the action during select college-football games telecast across ESPN, ABC, SEC and ACC Network getting special on-screen graphics and other elements whenever one of the teams tries to “Go for Dos” and score a two-point conversion. This year, the Heineken brand expanded its support and is expected to cover nearly two thirds of the plays broadcast this season, compared with just under half a year ago. To be sure, there are TV commercials, too.
“We’re not about just interrupting sport. We’re about being a part of it,” says Allison Payne, Heineken USA’s CMO, during a recent interview. The concept helps create a feeling of “doing the unexpected to make life a bit more interesting, and, obviously, make the game more interesting.”
Football commercials and beer go together like, well, what did we just say? But more advertisers like Dos Equis are pressing TV networks to carve out new elements from games during which they can hawk their wares. Such stuff is significantly more complicated than just running an ad and arranging for one of the announcers to bark out “this game is brought to you by….” And TV-sports outlets expect to see a significant uptick in requests for special sponsorships, particularly as sports take on new importance during the industry’s streaming wars, with games representing one of the few programming formats left that can still attract a large audience of simultaneous viewers.
Madison Avenue is pouring new dollars into sports-TV. Disney earlier this year said it sold nearly $4 billion in ad time tied to sports during the industry’s recent “upfront” sales market, when TV networks try to sell the bulk of their commercial inventory. NBCUniversal said its sports properties saw an uptick of 20% in new sponsors during the annual haggle. Amazon’s Prime Video suggested sales tied to sports “provided incremental volume growth for us” during the market.
In a different era, advertisers would use their big budgets to procure similar stuff during primetime dramas and comedies. In the streaming era, “there are fewer meaningful opportunities to do this in entertainment” programming, notes Dan Lovinger, a former head of sports and Olympics sales at NBCU who now leads Lov of the Game Advisors, a consultancy. In years past, advertisers bought sports commercials to reach large audiences. They still do, to be sure, but there appears to be some pressure building to engage more significantly with fans. “Dollars follow eyeballs, and so if the eyeballs are moving to sports, the dollars and creativity will also follow,” Lovinger says.
At Main Street Sports Group, which operates a collection of regional sports outlets known as the FanDuel Sports Network, executives have been working on what they call “trigger ads” that surface at specific sports moments, like a home run or a stolen base. “Is there an ad experience that we can do when there are like three seconds left on the shot clock, or any time that there is a three-pointer or a steal or something?” asks Jim Keller, executive vice president of advertising and sponsorship sales for the FanDuel networks, during an interview. Executives are “focused on finding a way for us to create sponsor moments that actually add to the viewers’ enjoyment of the game.”
Advertisers aren’t guaranteed to hit a marketing home run. Indeed, the live, spontaneous nature of a sports telecast means that tying ad messages to specific moments can be fraught with challenge. Rocket Cos. earlier this year ran an ad during Fox’s broadcast of Super Bowl LIX that used a version of John Denver’s “Country Roads, Take Me Home” to talk about Americans striving for home ownership. Marketing executives then tried to get the crowd watching the live game at New Orleans Caesar’s Superdome to sing along — with decidedly mixed results. When Fox came back to live broadcasting following the commercial break that contained an ad from Rocket, many fans appeared to either ignore the music or look puzzled as to why they should take part.
Fox and the NFL initially turned down the live, in-stadium singing session, believing that there would be more control around the concept if crowds were taped singing the song during pre-game coverage when the network was in commercial breaks. The advertiser insisted on trying to create a live spectacle. Once Fox cut to the commercial break that included the Rocket ad, the stadium crowd as invited to participate via use of promotional announcements, a D.J. and the facility’s various screens.
Getting viewers to associate Dos Equis with the two-point conversions requires “high-level coordination,” says Payne. Ther are traditional commercials, and football announcer Chris Fowler has been enlisted to help emphasize the sponsorship. “We have signage. We have college football team sponsorship, We have tailgate activation,” says Payne. “We are very good at bringing brand experiences to life, but it requires quite an in-depth coordination” between Heineken, Disney, ESPN and Dos Equis’ media agency, Dentsu.
Disney has become more open to similar requests, says Mike Denby, senior vice president of sales for the company. “We believe the more that we do integrations, the more that we elevate brands, it drives results,” he says. At the same time, he adds, the company can’t oversaturate the playing field with dozens of similar ideas during a single game.
Creating other bespoke ad concepts may be as hard as winning the games themselves. Sports remains “an unpredictable format,” notes Lovinger, and advertisers will want guarantees that a special appearance close to a goal, touchdown, stolen base, or foul that can’t always be given. What’s more, some leagues can be very careful about how much space they give advertisers as their games are being played. “There are leagues that are less restrictive in terms of how the broadcasters can access inventory and you’ll probably see more of it there, “says Lovinger.
Dos Equis remains undaunted. “My long-term vision is like, can you imagine whenever two-point conversion is in the cards that the whole stadium is chanting ‘Go for Dos?’ asks Payne. “That’s the Nirvana. I feel like we can get there.”
Trump backs ‘powerful caps’ on college athlete pay
WASHINGTON — President Trump wants “very powerful caps” to limit college athlete salaries so that universities won’t “go out of business.”
Trump told ESPN host Pat McAfee that he fears that “lesser” sports also are being scrapped due to the newly allowed practice of directly paying athletes, which has been allowed since July on top of name, image and likeness (NIL) sponsorships by companies and booster clubs permitted since 2021.
“It is a very serious problem because even football, when they give quarterbacks $12 million, $13 million, $14 million — I read a couple of them — and all of a sudden you’re going to see it’s going to be out of control, and even rich colleges are going to go bust,” Trump said in a Tuesday interview.
“They had the old way. They gave scholarships, and they did lots of good things. But there could be some form of payments, but… look, the NFL, and all of you know, all teams, they have caps. You don’t really have that in college sports,” the president said.
“When the guard comes along that weighs 350 pounds and he’s phenomenal, and they say, ‘That’s going to make the difference between having a great team and a lousy team’, and they give him $10 million — that’s going to start happening pretty soon — all of a sudden you’re going to have NFL-type payrolls.”
The reform allowing for direct payment of players by universities came through a court-approved settlement involving the NCAA, with an estimated initial annual cap of $20.5 million per player. Without changes, the salary cap is expected to rise to $33 million over the next decade, CBS Sports reported.
Trump, whose administration this year paused federal grants to prominent universities to force policy changes, added, “colleges don’t make that much money, even the most successful, so they’re not going to be able to do this. Bad things are going to happen unless they figure this out…
“And frankly, the college football, it’s very big. But as big as it is, if they don’t do some very powerful caps, these colleges are all going to go out of business no matter how rich they are.”
Trump floated Nick Saban, the retired longtime football coach at the University of Alabama, as a potential point person to lead a group to devise new salary caps.
“I don’t want to use any particular sport, because it’s, you know, degrading. But they are really terminating a lot of sports… you would call them lesser sports, but big sports, good sports, and sports where they have tremendous interest, they’re getting rid of them,” Trump added.
“A lot of the lesser sports are being totally terminated. You know that? It’s a shame. It was almost like a training ground for the Olympics, and a lot of those training grounds are being lost.”
Mavs honoring VP of corporate sponsorships Billy Phillips as he retires after 33 years
A wave of emotion overcame Billy Phillips as he went through a list of acknowledgements that included his Dallas Mavericks colleagues, corporate sponsorship partners and immediate family.
Phillips, the Mavericks’ longtime vice president of corporate sponsorships, was the final voice to speak on Saturday to commemorate his retirement after 33 years of tenure with the franchise. It was a celebration inside the Executive Lounge at American Airlines Center to honor one of the most respected employees in the team’s 45-year history.
“Many of you know his Dallas Mavericks legacy and what he’s done for this community, but what he’s done for the overall sports business community in North Texas is unparalleled,” said Gina Miller, the Mavericks’ new chief communications officer.
Phillips’ storied sports legacy in the Dallas-Fort Worth area didn’t start in basketball. The Long Island, N.Y., native played soccer as a goalkeeper from 1980 to 1981 for the Dallas Tornado in the North American Soccer League. He played an instrumental role with the Dallas Sidekicks, both as a player from 1984 to 1987 and manager from 1987 to 1996.
Phillips helped establish soccer in North Texas in the 1970s and 1980s, and the momentum led to Dallas being the host city for the 1994 FIFA World Cup. The quadrennial international men’s soccer tournament will return in 2026, with AT&T Stadium hosting nine matches in Arlington, including a semi-final game. FC Dallas president Dan Hunt said Phillips played a role in the Cup’s return.
Phillips joined the Mavericks in 1992 as a senior director of corporate sponsorship. He was promoted to vice president in 2018, the role he serves in currently until his final day on Dec. 23. As an athlete, he can’t help but reflect on the team’s lone championship in 2011 as a standout moment, but the people he worked with is what he’ll cherish the most.
“At the end of the day, it’s relationships,” Phillips said. “I have so many amazing relationships from people who work for the Mavericks and partners that I’ve worked with now…It’s always the people who’s the most important part of my job.”
Several influential people around the Mavericks spoke during Phillips’ retirement ceremony, including minority shareholder Mark Cuban and CEO Rick Welts. Co-interim general manager Michael Finley was also in attendance.
“This man can sell,” Cuban said. “Billy has been a rock, not just for the young salespeople, but for the whole organization. When things were up, when things were down, Billy was steady. Billy has this calming influence that he brings to anybody that he’s met, but he also can sell. What’s the rule, Billy?”
“If you’re talking to someone, you better have a check,” Phillips said.
The celebration didn’t stop during the pregame. Phillips was honored during halftime of Saturday’s game with a tribute video, which included cameos by Dirk Nowitzki and former Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle. Mavericks coach Jason Kidd began his pregame news conference with a congratulatory message for Phillips.
“I want to congratulate Billy Phillips,” Kidd said. “He’s retiring after 33 years with the Mavs. He’s a big influence in sports here in Dallas. Goalkeeper for the Dallas Sidekicks. He did everything and he’s a big reason why soccer is coming to Dallas for the Cup.”
Twitter/X: @MikeACurtis2
TKO Stock Slides despite Receiving a New Street-High Price Target
TKO Group Holdings (TKO) had a standout year in 2025, thanks to major media rights deals and a surge in sponsorships. In fact, the sports and entertainment company signed agreements to broadcast UFC and Zuffa Boxing with Paramount (PSKY) and licensed WWE content through Endeavor Group. These deals were big enough that TKO raised its outlook for the year, and the stock climbed by more than 50%, thereby making it one of the top performers in its sector.
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Importantly, analysts believe there’s more room to grow, even after this big run. For instance, BTIG analyst Tyler DiMatteo noted that 2026 looks promising for both the sports and entertainment industry and TKO specifically. While he does expect some short-term ups and downs due to the stock’s recent surge, he’s comfortable giving TKO a higher valuation. He points to strong consumer interest in live events and what many call the “experience economy” as key reasons why the company should keep performing well.
TKO is also betting on newer trends, such as prediction markets. It signed a multi-year deal with Polymarket that will apply to UFC and Zuffa Boxing in an attempt to increase fan engagement. Interestingly, that market was worth $1.4 billion in 2024 and could grow to $95.5 billion by 2035. As a result, DiMatteo gave TKO a Buy rating and raised his price target to a street high of $250 per share.
Is TKO Stock a Good Buy?
Turning to Wall Street, analysts have a Strong Buy consensus rating on TKO stock based on 14 Buys, one Hold, and zero Sells assigned in the past three months, as indicated by the graphic below. Furthermore, the average TKO price target of $225.73 per share implies 7.9% upside potential.
See more TKO analyst ratings
How shared values drove Ferrari’s first crypto partnership: Interview with BingX
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Disclaimer. This content is part of a paid partnership. The text below is a sponsored article that is not part of Cointelegraph.com editorial content. The material is written by our advertorial team and has undergone editorial review to ensure clarity and relevance, it may not reflect the views and opinions of Cointelegraph.com. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research before taking any actions related to the company. Disclosure.
The multi-year agreement between Formula One racing team Scuderia Ferrari and crypto exchange BingX represents the Italian team’s first partnership with a crypto exchange.
For Vivien Lin, Chief Product Officer at BingX, the connection is built on performance rather than just visibility. She notes that Ferrari’s “engineering excellence and uncompromising standards” mirror the platform’s own approach, stating that the goal is to demonstrate that a crypto exchange can operate with the “same discipline, transparency and ambition” as the iconic automotive brand.
In this interview, Lin sheds light on the strategic vision behind the collaboration, the maturity of the crypto landscape and how shared values with Ferrari are influencing BingX’s global roadmap.
Cointelegraph: How is the convergence of high-performance sports and financial technology reshaping global marketing strategies?
Vivien Lin: High-performance sports attract fans who are deeply committed and loyal, much like the community we’ve built at BingX with our 40 million users. In Formula 1, this engagement is clear. Recent research shows that 94% of fans plan to follow the sport five years from now, and 86% watch at least 16 races each season.
This kind of loyalty gives us a unique chance for us to build lasting relationships, not just short-term awareness. In my experience, it’s rare to find a partnership that fits so well. I also believe that sponsorship shapes how fans experience the sport.
The same research found that about three-quarters of fans think sponsors make Formula 1 better, and one in three are more likely to buy from F1 partners. For Gen Z, that number rises to 40%. For BingX, this trend means our marketing is now more focused on values, performance and long-term relevance, not just visibility.
CT: Why are elite sporting institutions increasingly looking toward the cryptocurrency sector for strategic alliances?
VL: In our experience, elite sports organizations have always focused on progress and winning. To stay ahead, they keep evolving, adopt new technologies and look to the future. The crypto sector and BingX share this forward-thinking approach, so there is a unique purpose behind these partnerships.
Furthermore, 2026 marks a change. As the industry grows, crypto is now about infrastructure, security and global access — not just experimentation. Sports organizations see this obvious shift and want to work with partners who are leading the way. These partnerships show a shared belief that responsible innovation can create lasting value for people around the world.
CT: What does the evolving relationship between Formula 1 and digital assets signal about the maturity of the crypto industry?
VL: The growing relationship between Formula 1 and digital assets is a strong signal that the crypto industry is entering a more mature phase. One that is defined less by speculation and more by credibility, infrastructure and long-term brand building.
Both Formula 1 and crypto are built on resilience. Progress is never linear. There are moments of rapid innovation, periods of pressure and times when patience matters more than speed. After seven years in this industry, I’ve seen crypto evolve through multiple cycles, shaped by both breakthroughs and hard lessons. Formula 1 understands this reality deeply.
From BingX’s perspective, Formula 1 represents the highest standards of performance, precision and trust. It is a global sport governed by rigorous regulation and scrutiny. The fact that teams and stakeholders are increasingly selective about their partners reflects how the crypto industry itself is changing.
Partnerships today are about values, governance and the ability to perform at scale. As the industry matures, we are seeing leading crypto platforms focus on compliance, security and user protection, foundational elements that are essential for long-term adoption.
The presence of digital asset companies in Formula 1 signals that these platforms are now capable of meeting the expectations of world-class institutions and global audiences. It also reflects a move away from short-term hype toward sustainable engagement and education.
CT: How does becoming a cryptocurrency partner for Ferrari differentiate BingX from its competitors?
VL: This partnership is significant not only because of Ferrari’s global brand and history, but also because it marks their first collaboration with a cryptocurrency exchange, which we do not take lightly. For BingX, it reinforces our position as a top-of-mind brand in crypto and reflects how far we’ve come as a platform.
For example, we were the first major exchange to introduce copy trading, which helped us become recognized as a top 5 derivatives platform, and today we are the first all-in-AI crypto exchange, with a $300 million commitment to implementing AI across our platform. It shows that we are seen as a long-term partner capable of meeting the standards of one of motorsport’s most iconic teams.
CT: What specific shared values between BingX and Scuderia Ferrari form the foundation of this multi-year collaboration?
VL: At the heart of this collaboration is a shared mindset of pioneering breakthroughs and redefining what’s possible. Both BingX and Scuderia Ferrari operate in environments where precision, performance and continuous innovation matter deeply.
Ferrari’s culture of constant innovation, race after race and season after season, closely mirrors how BingX approaches product innovation and platform evolution. We also share a long-term view that goes beyond short-term wins. There is a strong mutual respect for data, technology and discipline, as well as a belief that innovation should always be purposeful.
On the product side, this philosophy translates directly into action. Just as Ferrari continuously refines performance to push limits on the track, BingX is committed to helping traders go beyond their current potential through continuous platform upgrades, BingX Academy and AI-driven innovation.
CT: How do you plan to turn this partnership into tangible benefits for the BingX trading community?
VL: For us, partnerships like this are about delivering a more premium experience for our users. We are intentional about who we align with because those relationships reflect how we build our platform and our community.
Our partnerships with globally respected teams like Chelsea Football Club and Ferrari are not coincidences. They represent excellence, discipline and a commitment to performing at the highest level.
For our trading community, this translates into elevated experiences, stronger engagement and a brand they can trust and feel proud to be part of. Whether markets are moving fast or slowing down, our focus remains on quality, reliability and long-term value. These partnerships, along with racing-inspired campaigns, race-week activations and limited-edition experiences, reinforce that we are building BingX to operate at a global, premium standard.
CT: How does aligning with the most iconic team in motorsport reinforce BingX’s commitment to security and technological excellence?
VL: Ferrari’s reputation is built on precision, reliability and performance under pressure. Partnering with a team of that caliber reinforces how we think about building BingX and our own commitment to building secure, resilient and high-performing systems.
For years, we’ve focused on creating a resilient, AI-native platform, with intelligence embedded directly into the trading experience and a long-term $300 million commitment to AI.
In crypto, trust is built through infrastructure, not promises. We treat security as a foundation, supported by proof-based protections such as a $150 million Shield Fund and 100% proof-of-reserves.
This partnership reflects confidence in our technology and governance, and it sends a clear message that innovation and security are not trade-offs. They must work together to create a platform that can perform at a global, world-class standard.
CT: How will this alliance influence BingX’s strategic roadmap and expansion plans over the next few years?
VL: This partnership builds on a foundation we’ve already established. With over 40 million users globally and a position among the top five derivatives trading platforms, BingX has reached a scale where brand trust, consistency and global relevance matter more than ever.
Our multi-year partnership with Chelsea Football Club reflects that same thinking. Whether on the pitch or in the market, we align with teams that operate at the highest level of performance.
Working with Ferrari represents the next stage of that journey. It opens new opportunities for global storytelling, deeper regional engagement and innovation across markets. More importantly, it aligns with our long-term view of crypto as part of global finance and culture, not a niche industry.
CT: What role will this partnership play in BingX’s long-term goal to redefine standards within the cryptocurrency landscape?
Partnerships like this help set a new benchmark for what crypto brands can represent. They show that it’s possible to combine innovation with discipline, and ambition with responsibility.
Our goal is to help move the industry forward by building trust, raising standards and focusing on long-term value. If crypto wants to be part of global culture, it must meet the standards of the world’s most demanding institutions. This partnership is our commitment to that future.
NCAA D1 Cabinet Approves Jersey Patch Sponsorships in College Sports
If you felt that the influx of NIL and other cash influences had already thoroughly corrupted college sports, you may want to brace yourself.
The NCAA Division I Cabinet voted to approve jersey patch sponsorships in college sports. The new ruling will take effect on August 1, allowing patches to be placed on uniforms just in time for the start of the 2026 college football season.
“College sports are in an exciting new era of increased financial benefits for student-athletes, and the Cabinet’s vote today reflects the ongoing commitment of Division I members to drive additional revenues and fully fund those benefits,” said Illinois Athletics Director and D-I Cabinet chair, Josh Whitman, in a statement.
“This also continues the NCAA’s efforts to expand flexibility in areas of NCAA rules, thereby allowing schools and conferences to set standards that reflect their values and serve their unique needs. This important policy change is another step forward in advancing that philosophy and providing members with increased flexibility.”
As On3 reports, “Under the new legislation, schools will be able to place up to two additional commercial logos on uniforms and one additional logo on equipment during both the preseason and postseason. They can also add another logo on uniforms and apparel during conference championships.
“Patches are limited to a maximum of 4 square inches per logo, according to the NCAA. The legislation is in effect for non-NCAA championship competition.”
In anticipation of the rule’s passing, several schools, most notably LSU and UNLV, have already inked sponsorship deals.
The move will undoubtedly accelerate the commercialization of the game-day experience. In the last two years, fans in the stands and those watching at home have seen the emergence of company logos on the field and on the court, resulting from the House v. NCAA settlement approval.
Adding sponsorship patches to jerseys will create yet another revenue stream for college athletics, likely adding tens of millions of dollars annually.
Watch Brands Increasingly Turn to Sports for Spark
Could sports be the tonic that revives the luxury watch market?
Over the past few months, Swiss watch brands have lined up to announce multimillion-dollar deals with elite professional sports leagues and athletes, hoping to leverage their star power and the emotions of sports fandom to fire up a cooling market.
Last week, Breitling became the latest high-end brand to hitch its wagon to Formula 1, signing a deal with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1 Team, adding to a deal it announced in August to be the official timepiece partner of the National Football League (N.F.L.).
In November, Norqain became what it called the Official Luxury Sports Watch of the National Hockey League (N.H.L.), and in January Frederique Constant introduced its first sports sponsorship, connecting with the nascent Pro Padel League, in which athletes compete in padel, a game often described as a cross between squash and tennis.
Brands such as Rolex, Omega and TAG Heuer have built their profiles on ties with sports, but in today’s saturated market, can sports sponsorships really help brands achieve their goals?
Fears of foreign influence spark bipartisan crackdown on college sports funding
Student-athletes are increasingly exploring name, image and likeness contracts to benefit from their emerging stardoms. But lawmakers want to make sure those deals don’t provide loopholes for foreign adversaries to exert their influence in the United States.
Utah Rep. Blake Moore introduced the No Foreign NIL Funds Act on Tuesday that would implement a number of restrictions banning foreign governments and adversarial entities from investing in U.S. college sports. The bill would mostly apply to NIL contracts, but it would also extend to sponsorships, media rights deals, hosting amateur athletic conferences, and other joint ventures.
“College sports are woven into American campus life, local communities, and family traditions. But allowing foreign entities to funnel money and sponsorships into college athletics through NIL deals risks undermining the integrity of the game and exposing universities to unintended foreign influence or national security concerns,” Moore, a former student-athlete himself, said in a statement. “NIL should be used to support college athletes, not as a backdoor for moving foreign money into American institutions.”
Since NIL contracts have been accepted in recent years, lawmakers have struggled to adopt comprehensive laws regulating those deals. As a result, there are no federal restrictions banning foreign governments from funding those contracts so long as the agreements are cleared through a list of requirements settled in the House vs. NCAA lawsuit in 2024.
That settlement now allows each school to pay its athletes up to $20.5 million per year, which works out to about 22% of the average athletic department revenue at Power Four schools.
However, many of the organizations that coordinate NIL contracts operate as limited liability companies, or LLCs, that do not require donor lists to be made public. That has raised national security concerns among some lawmakers who said adversarial countries could quietly pour money into a university’s sports program and try to build political influence or gain leverage.
The bill would go beyond those NIL contracts to also block foreign countries from investing in collegiate athletic streams, and it would prohibit entering into contracts with individual universities, media rights distributors, bowl games or postseason football organizations.
Bill would have exceptions for foreign NIL donations
The legislation would carve out some exceptions to allow members of NATO, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland to still participate in those contracts.
Moore pointed to recent incidents in which college football coaches have engaged in foreign trips for lobbying or fundraising as well as some athletic conferences who are finalizing plans to organize tournaments in foreign countries.
The bill has garnered the support of bipartisan lawmakers, and even has the backing of Utah State University’s athletic director, who said it’s crucial “to create a safe and sustainable future.”
“Utah State Athletics firmly supports our student-athletes and their ability to seek name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities through the appropriate channels,” USU athletic director Cameron Walker said. “However, the origin of these sources is critical for NIL to function effectively and operate in the best interest of our university, state, and student-athletes. We are thankful for Congressman Moore’s work in this area and support his efforts to create a safe and sustainable future.”
Bills fans can’t get enough of Highmark Stadium collectibles
Want to bring home a memento from the current Buffalo Bills stadium before it’s torn down? You’ll soon get your chance, but be prepared to really open your wallet.
The Erie County Sheriff’s Office says police will be on alert at Sunday’s final regular-season game at Highmark Stadium for Buffalo Bills fans trying to snag an illegal souvenir.
Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | SoundStack | All Of Our Podcasts
Sure, Buffalo Bills fans can buy seats, pieces of the turf and goal post sections from the old Highmark Stadium. But the keepsake getting the most attention is the urinal troughs.
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Where To Watch Alysa Liu, Ilia Malinin, and More USA Stars After Milan Olympics?
USA’s biggest skating stars were on display at the Winter Olympics 2026 in Milan. The skating team garnered eight medals in total, four of which were gold. After the hardcore competitive segment, it’s time to move on to the entertainment side of sports. That’s where Stars on Ice takes the center stage.
Stars on Ice is a premier skating tour featuring Olympic, World, and National champions. Alysa Liu, Ilia Malinin, Madison Chock & Evan Bates, Amber Glenn, Isabeau Levito, Jason Brown, and many more will be a part of this elite cast. Here’s all there is to know about it:
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Where to find Stars on Ice this spring
The tour was founded by Olympic gold medalist Scott Hamilton in 1986. Since then, the tour has won three Emmy Awards and an ACE cable award for best sports spectacle. Stars on the Ice is a marquee event on the calendar, touring across the USA, Canada, and Japan.
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The U.S. Spring tour starts on April 16 and will go till May 31. The Canada tour will be directed and choreographed by four-time world champion Kurt Browning and will even feature Canadian legends like Elvis Stojko.
Tickets are available on their website. They cover almost 41 cities across three countries, including 26 in the USA, 13 in Canada, and 2 in Japan. This includes major cities such as New York, Chicago, Boston, Toronto, Vancouver, Winnipeg, Osaka, and Tokyo.
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Fans can also buy special passes to meet their favorite stars. These passes are called “Stargazer” passes, which give them access to a meet & greet post-show and pre-show warm-ups and Q&A sessions. People who cannot reach the arenas can tune in on their TVs and stream it on NBC, USA Network, and Peacock.
The tour, apart from being a spectacle for the fans and creative liberty for the athletes, serves as a revenue-generating machine for the skaters in the off-season. Unlike other team sports, there are no leagues or other events that give the athletes big contracts. Therefore, money from this tour gives them enough resources to prepare for big competitions like the World Championships and Olympics.
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Let’s explore what other ventures the skating stars Ilia Malinin, Alysa Leu, and Madison Chock & Evan Bates would be up to after the Olympic triumph, apart from the Stars on Ice.
Where does Ilia Malinin begin his Redemption Arc?
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The 21-year-old skating sensation delivered gold for Team USA in the figure skating team event. He did five quadruple jumps and executed a historic backflip on the ice. Malinin was expected to replicate his heroics in the free skating event as well, but faltered twice and finished 8th overall with 264.49 points.
After a disappointing performance in the free skating event, Malinin will be looking at his redemption arc at the World Championships in Prague (March 23-29). He would be defending his world title and aiming to claim his third consecutive gold at that event. Before that, he will be participating in the Art on Ice event in Zurich (February 26-28).
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The individual loss has been very heavy for the American, which was clearly visible in his performance at the Exhibition Gala on February 21. Dressed in casual attire, he performed the song “Fear,” portraying mental health issues and fighting the “invisible battles.”
This setback gives him a clear pathway to come back strong with extra motivation at the 2030 Winter Olympics.
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Alysa Liu’s double gold celebration and road ahead
The youngest US women’s National champion made her mark at the Winter Olympics. Alysa Liu won both the women’s singles and the team event. Her individual gold was recorded as the first American woman’s Olympic singles title since 2002.
The 20-year-old delivered the season’s best free skate and secured a total of 226.79 points. After a historic campaign in Milan, Liu has no aim to relax. She will be competing at the World Championships in Prague, aiming to become the first American woman since Michelle Kwan in 2001 to win back-to-back world titles.
Alysa is even a student at UCLA, studying psychology. Therefore, she would even devote a significant amount of time to completing her academics.
Madison Chock & Evan Bates aiming for 2034 Home Olympics
The ice dance veterans Madison Chock and Evan Bates secured a team gold and individual silver at Milano Cortina 2026. They scored 224.39, missing gold by barely 1.4 points in a final that sparked judging controversy.
Many thought that this would be their last Olympics. When the duo was asked about the same, they replied that they are aiming for the 2034 Olympics.
Their participation in the World Championship remains uncertain, even though they are listed in the competition. They would definitely be staring at the Stars on Ice beginning April 16 in Estero, Florida.
Chock and Bates, aged 33 and 37, respectively. In 2034, it would be difficult for them to score a gold at their home turf. But if you wanna back someone to achieve that feat, it’s none other than three-time Olympic champions.
Beyond competition, both skaters have shown their interest in coaching and choreography. Married in June 2024, they have also hinted at giving importance to personal life after skating for almost a decade together.
The Stars on Ice might be a regular thing for the duo. While for others, it’s the start of redemption arcs and a celebration of the art form. Milan might be over, but the show continues starring Team USA’s biggest skating stars at the iconic event.
Damson Idris Is Formula 1’s New Global Brand Ambassador
Damson Idris is on a generational run right now.
The British actor has spent the last few years collecting career highs like infinity stones, and his latest is one nobody (or maybe, everybody) saw coming: he is now an official Global Brand Ambassador for Formula 1.
“I’ve always been drawn to spaces where culture, performance, and precision meet, and Formula 1 sits right at the centre of that,” Idris said in a statement.
The announcement follows the blockbuster success of F1: The Movie, the Brad Pitt film Idris co-starred in that became the highest-grossing sports movie ever made, clearing $630 million at the box office. But what separated this project from a typical Hollywood cash grab was how seriously everyone involved took the real thing. The film was shot at real Grand Prix weekends, so they got to see the world inside of actual paddocks, alongside the teams and drivers who do this for a living. Idris trained for the role of Joshua Pearce, a young driver fighting for his shot, and kept showing up long after the cameras stopped rolling. And luckily for him, Formula 1 noticed.
“I had an enormous amount of respect for it before making the film, but getting closer to it gave me a real understanding of the innovation, the heart, and the intensity behind everything, and the elite level the drivers operate at,” he continued. “I’m genuinely excited to step into this role as a Global Ambassador. Being part of this world now means a lot to me, and I’m proud to represent something that inspires and connects people all over the world.”
As Global Brand Ambassador, Idris will attend Grands Prix, collaborate on content, and help bring new audiences into a sport actively working to expand its reach. More than 827 million people follow F1 globally, with nearly half under 35 and 42 percent women. Idris, whose appeal cuts across generation and culture, fits exactly into what F1 is chasing right now.
“In Formula 1, we are all about authenticity and Damson is passionate about the sport and shares our vision to grow it, so it’s fantastic that we’ll continue to work with him,” said Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1. “With his incredible platform and position in the entertainment and lifestyle space, together we will push the boundaries of how we reach fans.”
While it’s a step in the right direction, let’s be honest about what sport we’re talking about. Formula 1 has had one Black driver in its entire history (shoutout to our forever fave, Lewis Hamilton). Seeing Damson Idris become a global face of the sport is not a solution to that, but it is not nothing either. It says something about where F1 is trying to go, and more importantly, who it’s only now starting to see.
West Michigan ice arenas sold: What’s changing at Holland, Hudsonville rinks
OTTAWA COUNTY, MI – Two popular ice arenas in West Michigan are now under new ownership.
Griff’s IceHouse West in Holland and Griff’s Georgetown Ice Arena were acquired by Black Bear Sports Group, which owns and operates over 40 ice rinks across the country.
It’s unclear how much the arenas were sold for. Messages left with Black Bear representatives seeking additional information were not immediately returned on Wednesday, Feb. 25.
Both facilities will undergo significant repairs and improvements. One immediate change was renaming the rinks Holland Ice Arena and Hudsonville Ice Arena.
The ownership change is not expected to interrupt any programs this season.
The company said upgrades across both locations are expected to cost millions.
“We’re proud to support that tradition and do the essential work that keeps these rinks reliable and the experience consistent for years to come,” said Murry N. Gunty, founder and CEO of Black Bear Sports Group.
In a letter to Holland and Hudsonville league members, the company outlined other expected changes. For Holland Ice Arena, a top priority is repairing and replacing the rink’s dehumidification system.
Georgetown Township built and initially operated the Hudsonville arena in 2004. The arena was sold to DP Fox Ventures in 2018 for $1 million. DP Fox is the owner of the Grand Rapids Griffins hockey team.
Every NHL Arena Now Has Four 10.5K Cameras to Improve Broadcasts and Instant Replays
The National Hockey League (NHL) and Cosm announced that Cosm has installed its 10.5K-resolution C360 camera systems in all 32 NHL arenas to capture frame-by-frame, ultra-high-resolution footage of every play in NHL games.
Cosm installed its C360 10.5K cameras at the glass level across all NHL arenas across the United States and Canada. There are cameras located behind each net and one at each blue line on the ice, ensuring that the NHL has exclusive multi-angle live coverage and on-demand access to key areas of the ice, including plays around the net, potential goals, and potential offside plays at each blue line.
The ultra-high resolution footage captured by Cosm Media’s cameras also integrates with the NHL’s Puck and Player tracking data (NHL Edge), which enables the NHL to “isolate, enhance, and utilize” footage to help the NHL with its instant replay review process, various player safety initiatives, stat tracking, live broadcasts, and social media content creation. The NHL will also have access to every live camera and on-demand content through Cosm’s CX Video hub.
“Every play, every player, and every moment is captured and synced across multiple cameras, covering every inch of the ice, so no action is ever missed,” Cosm says.
“Integrating Cosm’s C360 camera technology into our arenas helps us continue to deliver our game in the best way possible and brings fans even closer to the speed and thrill of NHL action,” says Stephen McArdle, Chief Operating Officer at NHL. “The immersive perspectives captured by Cosm’s system provides premium content across our entire ecosystem — for our fans, coaches, officials, broadcast partners, and more.”
“The NHL is meticulous with its vetting and testing process when it brings new technologies to the ice,” adds Evan Wimer, Head of C360, a division of Cosm Media. “Over the last several years, the League has challenged us to ideate and evolve our technology while refining many aspects of our systems. As we’ve launched our C360 capture systems and cloud-based CX Video Hub in all 32 NHL arenas, the league and its partners have started to unlock valuable immersive capabilities uniquely provided by Cosm. The ability to automate camera functions that visually track every player and the puck all independently through time and space provides enormous utility to the league and the entire NHL ecosystem.”
As Sportsnet explains, it didn’t take long for Cosm’s cameras to be put to work as the NHL returned from its Winter Olympics break on February 25. In last night’s game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Tampa Bay Lightning, Toronto successfully challenged two Tampa Bay goals for missed offside calls. In both cases, officials used Cosm’s high-resolution cameras along the blue line to determine that Tampa Bay players had, in fact, committed an offside infraction missed by the on-ice officials. NHL action happens very fast, and offside calls often come down to a fraction of an inch, so every pixel matters.
Many professional sports leagues are seeking ways to integrate improved imaging technology into their broadcasts and replays. For example, last season marked the first in the NFL that officials used Sony Hawk-Eye camera technology to measure all NFL first downs. Sony camera technology is an integral part of the NFL’s broadcasts for the fans at home, as well. In Formula 1, new tiny cameras placed inside every driver’s helmet have transformed the spectating experience for fans at home.
Iron Maiden Sets ‘Run For Your Lives’ Tour of Australia
Iron Maiden will bring their brand of heavy metal thunder down under later this year.
The British heavy metal legends today (Feb. 27) announce the Australia dates of their Run For Your Lives World Tour, where they’ll play stadiums for the first time in both Melbourne and Sydney, and arenas in Adelaide and Brisbane.
Megadeth are special guests on the four-date run, which will get underway Nov. 11 at Adelaide Entertainment Centre, before hitting Melbourne’s AAMI Park (Nov. 13), Sydney’s Allianz Stadium (Nov. 15), and wrapping up Nov. 18 at Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
The Australia visit will mark Iron Maiden’s eighth, dating back to November 1982. Australians can’t get enough of them; Iron Maiden was here fewer than two years ago, in September 2024.
“This will be Iron Maiden’s biggest tour of Australia ever,” explains TEG Dainty president Paul Dainty, producer of the forthcoming run. “Headlining stadiums in Melbourne and Sydney for the first time in their 50-year history is a massive moment. And with Megadeth joining the tour, this is going to be an absolute powerhouse night of metal — two giants of the genre, one colossal production, and a show Australian fans won’t know what hit them.”
Iron Maiden has had a solid week. On Wednesday, the band’s name was called out for nomination into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame. And earlier, on Tuesday, Universal Pictures International (UPI) unveiled Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition, a feature film that’s said to trace the rockers’ “remarkable five‑decade journey” with “unprecedented access” to the rockers’ official archives.
Formed in East London in 1975, Iron Maiden are titans of the heavy genre, with 17 studio albums, over 100 million records sold, and more than 2,500 performances across 64 countries. In September 2021, Iron Maiden earned its highest charting album ever on the Billboard 200 as Senjutsu debuted at No. 3.
General public tickets for the Australia shows go on sale Friday, March 6.
Run For Your Lives Australia Dates
Nov. 11 — Adelaide Entertainment Centre
Nov. 13 — AAMI Park, Melbourne
Nov. 15 — Allianz Stadium, Sydney
Nov. 18 — Brisbane Entertainment Centre