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
Mavs honoring VP of corporate sponsorships Billy Phillips as he retires after 33 years
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
Sponsored Content
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.”
E Street Band Hits U.S. Arenas In The Spring
Bruce Springsteen used to tell a story about a particular post-9/11 encounter when he was in alone in a parking lot and someone yelled, “We need you now!” That, the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer said, was the impetus for his 2002 album The Rising.
Fast-forward a generation, and that phrase has a whole new meaning. And Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band will lead up to America’s Semiquincentennial on the road.
The Boss on Tuesday posted a video on Instagram announcing a two-month, 20-date U.S. jaunt launching March 31 in, of course, Minneapolis. The Land of Hope & Dreams American Tour will stretch through late May and play arenas across the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave — save for a closing-night stadium show at Nationals Park in the nation’s capital.
“We are living through dark, disturbing and dangerous times, but do not despair — the cavalry is coming,” Springsteen says in the clip (watch it below). “We will be rocking your town in celebration and in defense of America — American democracy, American freedom, our American Constitution and our sacred American Dream — all of which are under attack by our wannabe king and his rogue government in Washington, D.C. Everyone, regardless of where you stand or what you believe in, is welcome, so come on out and join the United Free Republic of E Street Nation for an American spring of rock ‘n’ rebellion.”
The tour will hit Los Angeles for two nights at the Kia Forum on April 7 and 9 and play New York City’s Madison Square Garden on May 11 and 16. It also will stop in metro markets including Portland, OR — another city rife with protests against immigration roundups — San Francisco, Chicago, Atlanta and Philadelphia. The full itinerary is below.
The always-political Springsteen made headlines last month when he released “Streets of Minneapolis,” a biting, haunting song dedicated to the memory of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, who were shot to death during separate anti-ICE protests in the Minnesota city in January. Watch the video here:
RELATED: Bruce Springsteen Excoriates ICE’s “Gestapo Tactics,” Dedicates Song To Renee Good During Surprise New Jersey Performance
Springsteen has been beefing with Donald Trump and his administration, again, in recent weeks, months and years. But that’s nothing new. The political firebrand has been vocal about his opposition to government shenanigans for more than half a century. This tour promises much of the same. Tickets go on sale Friday.
Here is the full schedule for the Land of Hope & Dreams American Tour:
Gilbert Arenas blasts NBA, players over Mac McClung Dunk Contest absence
The Slam Dunk Contest has lost its shine over the years, and 2026 didn’t do much to change that narrative. Like recent seasons, this year’s All-Star event was missing the star power that used to make it appointment viewing.
The lineup featured younger talents still working to establish themselves in the league, with names like Jase Richardson, Carter Bryant and Keshad Johnson taking center stage.
Three-time All-Star Gilbert Arenas had a different idea about how to generate interest. He argued that bringing back Mac McClung would have injected some much-needed energy into the competition, though that suggestion didn’t land well with everyone.
Gilbert Arenas claims NBA Stars forced Mac McClung out
During a recent
Bruce Springsteen and E Street Band to launch US tour next month
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Bruce Springsteen is bringing his pointed political commentary back to American stages this spring.
The rock icon and the E Street Band announced Tuesday the launch of their “Land of Hope and Dreams” American tour starting March 31 in Minneapolis, kicking off a 20-date run that blends arena rock with a message centered on democracy, freedom and what Springsteen calls the defense of the American ideal. The tour concludes May 27 with an outdoor performance at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.
“We are living through dark, disturbing and dangerous times, but do not despair — the cavalry is coming!” Springsteen said in a statement. “We will be rocking your town in celebration and in defense of America — American democracy, American freedom, our American Constitution and our sacred American dream.”
Last month, Springsteen dedicated his song “Streets of Minneapolis” to the people of Minneapolis, criticizing President Donald Trump’s ongoing immigration enforcement operations in the city.
“It’s dedicated to the people of Minneapolis, our innocent immigrant neighbors and in memory of Alex Pretti and Renee Good,” he wrote, naming the two people who were fatally shot by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis.
The upcoming shows mark Springsteen and the E Street Band’s first performances in North America since 2024. In 2025, they played to more than 700,000 fans across Europe on the initial leg of the “Land of Hope and Dreams” tour and released a live EP recorded on opening night in Manchester, England.
Springsteen has increasingly leaned into political themes during recent performances. On last year’s European tour, he told audiences that the band was calling upon “the righteous power of art, of music, of rock ’n’ roll, in dangerous times.”
The E Street Band lineup includes Roy Bittan, Nils Lofgren, Patti Scialfa, Garry Tallent, Stevie Van Zandt and Max Weinberg, along with Soozie Tyrell, Jake Clemons and Charlie Giordano. They will be joined by the E Street Horns, the E Street Choir and percussionist Anthony Almonte.
Megan Moroney is on ‘Cloud 9’ after meteoric rise to fame
NASHVILLE – Megan Moroney sits on a leopard chaise in a bubble gum pink house. The sunlight from the window pours onto her shoulders.
Stars Steal the Spotlight in the Crowd at Illinois’ Win Over USC
There were stars in the house at the Galen Center to see the USC Trojans take on the No. 10 Illinois Fighting Illini on Wednesday night. In attendance were former NBA All-Stars Gilbert Arenas and Peja Stojakovic. Both of them had sons’ playing in the game.
Gilbert Arenas, Peja Stojakovic in Attendance
Gilbert Arenas is the dad of USC freshman guard Alijah Arenas. Gilbert was a guard in the NBA from 2001-2012. He was named an all-star three times and was named to three All-NBA teams. His son, Alijah, was a five-star high school recruit and signed with the Trojans as a member of their 2025 recruiting class.
Alijah missed the start of the season due to a torn meniscus but was able to make his long awaited USC debut in late January. In eight games played this season, he has averaged 14.5 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.5 assists.
Peja Stojakovic was a forward in the NBA from 1998-2011. Stojakovic was a three-time all-star, won two there-point contests, and is a 2011 NBA champion. He is the dad of Illinois guard Andrej Stojakovic.
Andrej is in his third collegiate season, all of which have been at different schools. As a freshman in 2023-24, he played for the Stanford Cardinal before transferring that offseason to the rival California Golden Bears. After one season in Berkeley in 2024-25, Stojakovic entered the portal again. He transferred to Illinois.
This season, Andrej is averaging 14.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. The Illini have been one of the top teams in the Big Ten all season long and Stojakovic has been a big reason why.
MORE: USC Fans Will Love Makai Lemon’s Player Comparison Before the NFL Draft
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MORE: The Biggest Question USC Faces at Running Back
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Illinois Dominates USC
On Wednesday night, Illinois showed that there is a massive gap between them and USC. The Fighting Illini went into Los Angeles and blew out USC by a final score of 101-65. Illinois improved their record to 22-5 on the season and 13-3 in Big Ten conference while USC dropped to 18-8 overall and 7-8 in the Big Ten.
Arenas played just 18 minutes and had eight points on 2/7 shooting from the field. Stojakovic had a game high 22 points off the bench on 6/7 shooting from the field and 9/9 shooting from the free throw line.
While Illinois still has an outside chance to win the Big Ten and earn a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament, USC is just trying to make it into the big dance. Prior to the game, the Trojans were right on the tournament bubble.
ESPN bracketogolist Joe Lunardi had the Trojans as the fifth to last team in the field of 68 and the last team in the field with a bye on the No. 11 seed line. The loss very well might have moved them down to the play-in game if not out of the field completely. USC’s next game is on Saturday, Feb. 21 vs. the Oregon Ducks.
NBA Legend Defends Karl-Anthony Towns Against Shaq & Charles Barkley’s Harsh Narrative
Karl-Anthony Towns, the self-proclaimed greatest big man shooter in the NBA, was recently subjected to intense criticism from Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley. Amid his lowest production season since his rookie year, they criticized him for his lack of aggression against the Detroit Pistons. Barkley even went to the extent of ‘carefully’ saying he “don’t know how to play basketball.” However, the New York Knicks star unexpectedly found support from another NBA legend.
“What we think KAT seems soft is when he’s not getting the ball, he don’t demand that shit out loud publicly,” Arenas said. “That’s not his character. See, ’80s, if Shaq ain’t getting the ball, he’s trying to wring your neck in a locker room. Now, if Karl did that, then okay. But that’s not his personality. He’s not going to go at his teammates and stuff like that. So the game is different. The people are different.”
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Arenas has previously trolled the Knicks star, calling him “Sideshow Bob” and even making “girl’s legs” comments. However, the three-time NBA All-Star just clarified that his comments were never about Towns’ game, but about another factor.
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“I make fun of KAT because just the mannerisms, because that’s what I do, because I’m a troll,” the NBA legend added on The Gilbert Arenas Show. “But when it comes to just basketball, power forward or center, he has a claim. For the last 11 years, he has been top two, top three in his position every year. You can give him credit, or you don’t. He gets the wrong end of the stick because of just the mannerisms.”
Before the Knicks faced the Houston Rockets, O’Neal opened the segment by calling Towns out for “playing soft.” Barkley added to the severity of the criticism, saying he was particularly upset with Towns not running at smaller defenders in the post and settling for 3-point shots. However, recent incidents have brought a strange pattern to the fore.
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Gilbert Arenas appears to be biting his own words about Karl-Anthony Towns…
Karl-Anthony Towns has always been confident in his long-range shooting, and, to be fair to him, he is not just a great shooter at the big man’s position but one of the best outside shooters in the NBA. However, sometimes his over-reliance on that one skill takes the aggression out of the game.
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Two years ago, when the Minnesota Timberwolves met the Dallas Mavericks in the Conference Finals, Arenas wasn’t happy with Towns’ shot selection. While Arenas is now defending him against Barkley’s comments, the former Washington Wizards player has also criticized him similarly.
“I get 3-point shooting is good, but not f—— every game, man,” Arenas ranted back in 2024. “That s— ain’t cute… You have little guys on you, and you can’t properly post the f— up, that’s embarrassing.”
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To be fair to Towns, one player that Barkley referenced and heaped praise on was Nikola Jokic. Surprisingly, 39.8% of Towns’ shots are from 0-3 feet from the basket compared to Joker, who takes only 22.8% of them from the same distance. Which proves that the Knicks star shoots more around the rim than the Denver Nuggets big man. Yet there’s a difference in their net 3-point shooting volume this season: Towns averages 4.4 attempts per game, while Jokic averages 6.7.
Yes, Jokic might indeed be a better player than Towns overall, but shaming the Knicks star for not knowing how to hoop seems over the top.
Maine high school basketball: Fans pack arenas to cheer on their team
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Country star announces second Alabama show for 2026
An unorthodox country star is returning to an Alabama venue where he had to contend with lightning during a previous visit.
Jelly Roll announced dates for a “Little Ass Shed Tour” Monday. Among the 11 dates is stop at the Wharf Amphitheater in June. That makes him part of a growing spring-summer lineup at the venue, which has conspicuously big plans for Memorial Day weekend.
Jelly Roll’s “Little Ass Shed Tour” dates span from May 28 to July 22. They’re scattered among other dates, including the “Big Ass Stadium Tour” with Post Malone. As previously reported, that show comes to Birmingham’s Protective Stadium May 26.
The Wharf show takes place June 2. It will feature special guest Kashus Culpepper. General ticket sales begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27, through Ticketmaster.
The artist headlined a show at the Wharf Amphitheater in 2023. On that occasion, stormy weather forced a delay and the evacuation of the 10,000-seat venue. At the time, Jelly Roll said the experience was unprecedented in his career.
Other Wharf Amphitheater shows:
Friday, March 27: Bailey Zimmerman with special guests Hudson Westbrook and Blake Whiten
Saturday, May 23: HARDY with special guests Tucker Wetmore and McCoy Moore
Sunday, May 24: Godsmack with special guest Dorothy
Monday, May 25 (Memorial Day): The Dave Matthews Band
Wednesday, May 27: The Black Crowes and Whiskey Myers with special guests Southall
Saturday, June 6: Gary Allan and Tracy Lawrence with special guests Diamond Rio and Easton Corbin
Sunday, July 12: Train with special guests Barenaked Ladies and Matt Nathanson
Friday, July 17: Parker McCollum with special guests Vincent Mason and Jackson Wendell
Friday, July 24: Creed with special guests Mammoth and Hinder
Saturday, July 25: Luke Bryan with special guests Shane Profitt, Karley Scott Collings, Zach John King, and DJ Rock
Tuesday, Aug. 4: Toto with special guests Christopher Cross and The Romantics
Friday, Aug. 21: Goo Goo Dolls with special guests Neon Trees
Wednesday, Aug. 26: Jack Johnson with special guests Lake Street Dive
Sunday, Oct. 3: “Weird Al” Yankovic with special guest Puddles Pity Party
Gavin Newsom’s Wife Mocks Trump After Women’s Hockey Team Declines Invite
Jennifer Siebel Newsom, wife of California Governor Gavin Newsom, has cheered on the U.S. women’s ice hockey team for declining President Donald Trump’s invitation to the State of the Union address.
“Clearly they prefer arenas where women are actually respected! As they should,” Siebel Newsom wrote on X Monday.
The U.S. women’s ice hockey team brought home a gold medal last Thursday after a stunning 2-1 victory against Canada in the final at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. While the White House shared a message celebrating their victory, the president did not publish a congratulatory post on his personal social media profiles.
He did so, however, for the U.S. men’s ice hockey team, who won the final against Canada on Sunday afternoon and broke an Olympic gold medal dry spell that, for the team, that had lasted 46 years. He also called them on the same day, inviting them to attend the State of the Union address and later visit him at the White House.
“We’ll just have some fun. We have medals for you guys,” Trump said in the phone call, which was mediated by FBI Director Kash Patel.
“And we have to—I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team. You do know that,” he added, laughing. “I do believe I probably would be impeached [if the women’s team wasn’t invited], OK?”
The U.S. women’s ice hockey team declined the invite, citing scheduling commitments. In a statement shared with Newsweek, a USA Hockey spokesperson said: “We are sincerely grateful for the invitation extended to our gold medal–winning U.S. Women’s Hockey Team and deeply appreciate the recognition of their extraordinary achievement.
“Due to the timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments following the Games, the athletes are unable to participate. They were honored to be included and are grateful for the acknowledgment.”
This is a developing story and will be updated.
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.
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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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Kyle Busch Nabs Victory In Wild Finish Of Time
While it doesn’t reset the count on his career-long NASCAR Cup Series winless drought, Kyle Busch was able to grab a confidence-building victory on Saturday afternoon in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Fr8 Racing 208 at EchoPark Speedway.
Driving the No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado, Busch came out on top of a thrilling battle at the front of the pack in the closing laps of the race, which was shortened to 125 laps, 10 laps short of the scheduled distance, due to time constraints following a lengthy weather delay before the start of the race.
With frantic racing at the front of the pack, which saw the running order continue to shuffle throughout the closing laps, many contenders came and went, but there was a constant near the front, Busch, and his Spire Motorsports teammate, Carson Hocevar, who didn’t let anyone come between them.
Busch says early in the event, he had doubts as to whether Hocevar would work with him throughout the race, but as it became crunch time, he was pleased by the teamwork shown by the driver of the No. 77 machine, which secured a top-two finish for Spire Motorsports.
“Every F***ing Week”: NASCAR Drivers Gang Up on Rick Hendrick’s Prodigy After Diabolical Move
Just five laps into the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race at Atlanta, Corey Day triggered a massive wreck, leaving multiple cars damaged. The #17 driver tried to fit his nose into an opening, move up, and ended up triggering the wreck, all while battling for 10th.
The trigger not only took Day out of the race but also jeopardized Ryan Sieg, Kyle Sieg, Harrison Burton, and Blaine Perkins’ day. As a result of the wreck, multiple drivers shared their frustrations on Day.
Sieg, who was also contesting for the place, hit out at Rick Hendrick’s prodigy.
“Every f***ing week he’s an idiot. I don’t know why he’s in that car,” Sieg said. “He definitely needs to learn like you know, I mean a lot of a lot of them do. Just you gotta finish the race before you don’t, I mean you must finish before you can. I mean have a chance to win it. So they gotta learn that and unfortunately, we’re part of a frustrating situation.”
Austin Hill, the winner of the United Rentals 300 at the Daytona International Speedway last week, also shared his thoughts. He told his crew chief on the radio, “I saw that coming from a mile away. The 17 doesn’t know what he’s doing.”
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Corey Day of Hendrick Motorsports started the Bennett Transportation and Logistics 250 race from 9th, three places ahead of RSS Racing’s Ryan Sieg. Haas Factory Team’s Sam Mayer claimed the pole, ahead of Carson Kvapil of JR Motorsports and Taylor Gray of Joe Gibbs Racing.
As of Lap 38 of 163, Jesse Love of Richard Childress Racing was leading the race, ahead of Parker Retzlaff of Viking Motorsports and Taylor Gray of Joe Gibbs Racing. Day, however, returned to the track after nursing initial damage, and was running in 13th place.
Daniel Suarez Concedes to Roger Penske’s Empire as Phoenix Double Duty Puts NASCAR Pride on the Line
Daniel Suarez’s latest admission in NASCAR is surely going to upset a majority of fans, especially given how the Mexican driver conceded to IndyCar. Despite racing most of his career in stock car racing, Suarez put the Roger Penske-owned competition on top over its fiercest American rival, NASCAR.
In a recent interview, Suarez was asked to share his thoughts on the IndyCar-NASCAR races at Phoenix in March. Addressing the event, the Spire Motorsports driver expressed his appreciation and explained that the two motorsport competitions have different fan bases.
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“I think it’s an amazing opportunity,” Suarez said. “And I’m super excited to continue to explore these double duties or whatever you want to call it with IndyCar. Because IndyCar, I think, is an amazing series. I really, really love watching those guys. I have a couple good friends racing that series. And it’s fun.
“And I believe that actually the fan base that they have is quite different from NASCAR. I’m not saying that it’s better or worse. It’s just different.”
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Following this, the #7 driver explained how NASCAR and IndyCar are different sports, even though they have their roots in motorsports. While making the claim, Suarez stated that the speed of the IndyCar challengers will make Next Gen cars “running” like “bicycles.”
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“We are heavier. And we are more horsepower. It’s just different. It’s a different kind of racing, where we’re just more physical kind of racing. I mean, you know that. But IndyCars, they are super fast. They’re super, super fast, especially in ovals. But yeah, they are going to make us look like we are running bicycles. But it’s just completely different things. I mean, all over,” Suarez further added.
Notably, NASCAR and IndyCar are indeed different forms of motorsport. Even though they are based in the United States, as one is open-wheel racing, while the other is four-wheel stock car racing, they are functionally and structurally different.
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As a result of having more aerodynamic features and being open-wheel, the natural speed of IndyCar challengers is higher, often reaching about 230-240 mph. When compared against NASCAR, it is 190-200 mph.
Now, putting the comparisons aside, NASCAR and IndyCar are all set to shake hands in the first week of March at the Phoenix Raceway. This will be the open-wheel racing body’s first venture to the Arizona oval since 2018.
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Besides this, the double header at Indianapolis was also one of the most talked about Motorsports events. It, however, stopped after 2023 as the NASCAR Cup Series moved back to the 2.5-mile layout, something Team Penske driver Ryan Blaney missed dearly.
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Roger Penske’s star driver reminisces Indy days
Until 2023, NASCAR hosted its Cup and Xfinity Series races along with IndyCar’s Sonsio GP and the Indianapolis 500 together at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. During this time, Blaney would often visit Team Penske’s box during the Indianapolis 500 race.
“I loved when we had the doubleheader with them at Indy, just kind of being right there and going over and hanging out and watching practice in their box and stuff like that,” Blaney said. “It was cool, and I think it’s going to be fantastic.”
Notably, Ryan Blaney drives for Roger Penske’s team, Team Penske, an organization that fields teams both in NASCAR and IndyCar. With the Indianapolis 500 no longer in existence, all eyes will be on the Phoenix doubleheader in March this season.
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Penske, who owns IndyCar, Team Penske, also owns the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Worth over $3.8 billion, he is one of the most influential names in the world of motorsports.
HMS Called Out for “Terrible” Driving After Ruining Generational NASCAR Race Finish With Chaotic Red Flag
This was not the day Rick Hendrick hoped for. Just when the race was shaping up for a straight fight to the finish, it unraveled in turn three, and a lot of frustration quickly pointed toward Hendrick Motorsports.
The stack-up began in heavy traffic with just a handful of laps left. As the field compressed entering the corner, contact triggered a multi-car crash and collected several contenders.
And now William Byron finds himself in the middle of a giant storm. Contact impacted stacked cars quickly, leaving little room to escape on lap 241. William Byron and Joey Logano were among those caught in the initial chain reaction as cars checked up ahead of them.
Moreover, Austin Dillon and Austin Cindric were among those swept up as lanes closed and nowhere remained to escape.
The impact brought out the caution and ultimately a red flag for cleanup, wiping out what had been building toward a regulation finish. Instead of a clean run to the checkout, the race was pushed into overtime and fans weren’t shy about calling sequences terrible and blaming HMS for derailing what many felt could have been a generational ending.
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“Some terrible judgement calls on track today, Byron was definitely not clear to get to pit entry,” one fan wrote, pointing to what they felt was the critical miscalculation that triggered the stack up.
Another added, “That was shaping up to be SUCH a good finish, especially for my 23xi boys,” referencing Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick, especially the strong late race run from Wallace and Company before the caution erased that momentum.
Others did not hold back at all. “Hendrick has done their best to ruin everybody’s day,” one post read, while another quipped, “The Hendrick team meeting tomorrow needs to be ‘there are other drivers on the track.’”
Fair or not, the red flag in overtime reset shifted the narrative instantly, from a potential classic finish to a blame game centred squarely on HMS.
Inside the high-pressure plan to race IndyCars on DC’s streets
With just six days until the start of the INDYCAR season, preparations are accelerating for one of the most ambitious races in modern motorsports — a first-ever INDYCAR event on the streets of Washington, D.C.
The Indianapolis 500 has long carried the nickname “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,” but the summer street race set against D.C.’s iconic landmarks could rival that reputation — if organizers can pull it together on a compressed timeline.
RELATED | President Trump announces plans for IndyCar race through streets of DC
A Race Against the Clock
To understand what it takes to convert an urban environment into a professional racing venue, federal planners initially consulted Tony Leno, who has spent more than 22 years helping build the annual INDYCAR street race in St. Petersburg, Florida.
“Our contract here is about 70 days, but we’ve cut that down to a little less than 50,” Leno said. “And that’s after 22 years of doing it in practice. It seems pretty aggressive.”
That timeline, he says, only works because of decades of institutional experience — something D.C. doesn’t yet have.
“I’m hoping there was some behind-the-scenes planning that took place from the conversation last year,” Leno added. “Because it’s a pretty tight time frame to turn a track around.”
What the Public Never Sees
For race fans, the transformation can seem almost magical. For planners, it’s a massive logistical operation involving millions of moving parts.
“You have thousands of pieces, millions of pieces,” Leno explained. “Thousands of concrete barriers that can weigh 10,000 pounds each. On top of those, you have to install the catchment system and fencing.”
Those components don’t just appear overnight.
“They’re trucked in,” he said. “There’s specialized equipment — forklifts, handlers — assembling everything piece by piece. It’s modular, but it’s many, many truckloads of material.”
Safety Comes First
Beyond construction, safety approval is non-negotiable.
“All racing like INDYCAR and Formula 1 is controlled by a sanctioned body,” Leno said. “They have to inspect and approve those catchment systems for the safety of the drivers and the spectators.”
As race week approaches in St. Petersburg, Leno says his biggest variable isn’t construction — it’s weather.
“Rain is our biggest factor here in Florida,” he said. “In hotter seasons, the biggest challenge becomes worker safety. When you’re working in 90- to 97-degree heat, it’s pretty brutal.”
That’s a reality D.C. organizers may face as well, with August heat and humidity adding another layer of complexity.
A Model in Motion: Markham, Ontario
Washington’s race weekend will come just one week after the debut of another brand-new INDYCAR street race — in the city of Markham.
Mayor Frank Scarpitti says excitement in his city has been building for months.
“The Canadian Indy race is a bit of a tradition,” Scarpitti said. “It’s one of the oldest INDYCAR races, followed for generations. Kids have grown up watching this.”
Markham began planning early, even before contracts were finalized.
“We started the conversation back in January (2025),” Scarpitti said. “Once we understood the opportunity, we didn’t let go of it.”
That head start allowed the city to quietly design its 2.1-mile, 12-turn circuit — including a rare double pit lane — and begin construction well ahead of race week.
Streets, Surfaces, and Expectations
Street surface quality is another major concern for any city hosting its first race.
“It depends on the condition of the streets,” Leno said. “City streets have to have drainage, crosswalks, striping — all the things that make them functional every day. Those don’t disappear just because you’re racing.”
In Markham, that has meant removing existing asphalt and replacing it with a higher-grade racing surface, along with modifying curbs and repositioning light standards.
The Most Important Advice for D.C.
When asked what advice he would offer federal and city leaders in Washington, Leno didn’t hesitate.
“Stakeholder engagement. Talk to the community,” he said. “Hotels, restaurants, businesses, condo towers, residents. Explaining what’s happening is the biggest time consumer — and the most important part of my job.”
He emphasized that the disruption is often less than people expect.
“The track is only fully secured for about seven days,” Leno said. “That’s when the real road closures begin.”
As the INDYCAR season gets underway and the countdown continues, the success of D.C.’s race may hinge less on speed — and more on planning, communication, and execution under pressure.
Hendrick Motorsports Driver Owns Costly Late Atlanta Mistake After Racing With Damage
After winning the Cup title last year, Hendrick Motorsports hasn’t had the best start to a season in 2026. The Daytona 500 was the first disappointment with underwhelming results, and yesterday’s Atlanta race was even worse. It was particularly rough for one of their star drivers, who sits in the #24 Chevy, who not only suffered a blow towards the end but took several other contenders out with him.
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Hendrick Motorsports driver reacts to red flag-causing crash
William Byron had a strong race running, but got loose with four laps remaining in the race. He tried avoiding the oncoming traffic, but couldn’t. The red flag was soon out. Many pointed out a potential tire issue, but he recently proved otherwise.
“No, no, I actually had damage from the wreck before. So, the front end was kind of split a little bit and I just didn’t have as much grip. So, I was searching for air and got loose. So it was, it was on me, I just messed up.” Byron had the perfect way to escape the responsibility for the crash. But he revealed to the media that it wasn’t a tire issue that caused the wreck.
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It wouldn’t be wrong to call the race eventful. Denny Hamlin triggered a major wreck on lap 224, taking several cars with him. Byron seemingly escaped unscathed, but there was some damage to his car that affected his performance. This amplified when he attempted to draft later in the race, losing control and hitting the wall.
“I didn’t have any steering,” he added. “The further I got down the track, I just kept turning to the right. I didn’t have any steering. So I was just trying to get slowed down. I was hoping that I would just get back to pit road, but then I got clocked.”
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While he did not expect to win the race with the damage, the Hendrick Motorsports driver did expect to finish within the top five, as he further revealed. But his race ended with just three laps to go on the white flag.
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This has been Byron’s story this year so far. The HMS drivers haven’t had the best season start, and the team, including Byron, is struggling.
William Byron’s struggle
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For the past two seasons, William Byron has been the first driver to qualify for the playoffs. He won two consecutive Daytona 500s, and this was expected to be a three-peat. But he only finished in 12th place.
But the concern seems to be growing for Byron. He was a strong title contender last year, winning multiple races and making it up to the Championship 4. One of his best seasons, losing only one position in the final standings, came in 2024.
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With the Chase format returning this season, Byron was understood to be at an advantage because of how consistent he remained throughout the season last year. But so far, his performance hasn’t been very promising. He dropped to 13th place in the standings with his DNF at Atlanta. Moreover, Byron hasn’t led a single lap so far in the season.
While the season has only started, all the Hendrick Motorsports drivers seem to be facing some trouble.
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With Michael Jordan and Carson Hocevar, 23XI Racing and Spire shake up NASCAR competition structure
The brash 23-year-old hotshot driver likes quoting “Talladega Nights” in race on his team radio and makes few apologies for bowling over the NASCAR establishment to pursue a win.
The six-time NBA champion who also is a Cup car owner has become a weekly presence in victory lane on national TV.
The points standings in NASCAR’s premier series are packed at the top with upstart organizations dominating the early storylines in 2026.
The wreck-filled drafting tracks of Daytona International Speedway and Echo Park Speedway are known for producing results that are less than indicative of a full season.
But through two races, 23XI Racing and Spire Motorsports have owned the narrative over title stalwarts Hendrick Motorsports, Joe Gibbs Racing and Team Penske — a trio accounting for 18 of the past 21 Cup championships.
“We show up to the racetrack every weekend with the effort of breaking up the three big teams,” 23XI Racing star Tyler Reddick said Sunday after his second consecutive victory to open the season. “We want to jump in and be a part of the conversation with those three. We want to take the competition to them.”
NASCAR’s competitive structure is being shook up by a world-famous athlete and a wacky personality.
23XI Racing is co-owned by basketball legend Michael Jordan, whose team has the top two drivers in the points standings with Reddick and Bubba Wallace.
Spire Motorsports has the fourth-ranked driver in Carson Hocevar, who finished fourth Sunday at the 1.54-mile oval south of Atlanta in Hampton, Georgia. His third consecutive top 10 at Atlanta came a week after he led entering the final lap of the Daytona 500 before crashing just past the white flag in NASCAR’s biggest race.
He showed his trademark resilience at Atlanta, rallying from a cut tire that dropped his No. 77 Chevrolet two laps down.
During a late red flag, Hocevar instructed his spotter to relay messages to Wallace and Ross Chastain that he wanted to “shake and bake” on the restart.
Channeling Will Ferrell’s Ricky Bobby character from “Talladega Nights” is on brand for Hocevar, who has angered the opposition since arriving in Cup two years ago.
Going for the lead during the first overtime restart at Atlanta, he plowed into the left rear of Christopher Bell’s No. 20 Toyota and triggered a five-car crash.
“I was taking every run,” Hocevar said. “I’m sure I owe people apologies, but I think we’re all going for spaces and runs.”
Teammate Daniel Suarez took a more measured approach to finish fifth and improve to seventh in the standings for Spire Motorsports, which already was in the headlines after hiring away a key executive from Gibbs. The team since has filed a lawsuit against former competition director Chris Gabehart.
“I couldn’t be prouder of Spire Motorsports,” Suarez said. “These guys continue to fight and get better. Just super happy to be here. We have a great thing going.”
Suarez joined Spire from Trackhouse Racing, which had two top 10s Sunday with Chastain (third) and Shane van Gisbergen (a career-best sixth on an oval). Zane Smith was seventh at Atlanta and is ranked fifth in points for Front Row Motorsports.
Hendrick’s Chase Elliott (third) is the only driver from NASCAR’s traditional “Big Three” in the top 10 of the standings. Penske’s highest-ranked driver is Ryan Blaney in eighth, and Joe Gibbs Racing’s top driver is Chase Briscoe, who is 15th in points after taking second at Atlanta.
It’s all a welcome change for NASCAR, which recently launched a “Hell Yeah” promo campaign aimed at attracting a new audience (which already knows Jordan from his NBA career) while satisfying its longtime fans (who appreciate the rough-hewn style of Hocevar).
Under the new 10-race Chase championship, Reddick could have a chance to become the first champion from outside Hendrick, Penske and Gibbs since Martin Truex Jr. in 2017.
“It’s very early, but it’s not by circumstances,” said Denny Hamlin, who recruited Jordan, a lifelong NASCAR fan, as his partner in 23XI Racing. “Just doing a lot of the right things. We’re making up for lost time.”
But there’s still a long way to go in becoming a powerhouse.
“It’s too early for that,” Hamlin said. “We’re many wins and championships away from that … but we’re working hard.”
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Humbled Kyle Larson Issues Apology as HMS Faces Backlash Over “Embarrassing” Atlanta Antics
Kyle Larson made an uncharacteristic mistake this Sunday. While attempting to move from the top lane to the inside, his left turn was so long that he took out both Shane van Gisbergen and himself. “Was he trying to come all the way down to the racetrack?” said one of the commentators. That mistake from him was very unlike Larson. In the post-race interview, he didn’t mince any words about this and took responsibility for it.
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Kyle Larson makes his intentions clear post-race
Right before his crash, he was about to finish the second stage in the top 5. It would put him in a favorable spot to try to win the race. Nevertheless, one mistimed move by him cost him a good haul of points.
“It’s more so frustrating because it was all me. Typically, I get caught up in—I feel like others’ mistakes—in these types of tracks, but that was completely my fault. So that’s embarrassing and frustrating, and I’m just glad nobody else, I don’t think, got taken out.”
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The Hendrick Motorsports driver confirmed that there were no issues with his car. He had all the pace necessary in order to make it to the front of the pack. If he had been slightly better, Larson might have won.
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“We had a great car, and it felt like up until that point, I was doing a pretty good job. Guys are always just trying to build their notebook up in these places. I know I crashed right there, but still, we’re getting better and better when it comes to these, especially here at Atlanta. So, yeah, that was fun; I just wish I was out there.”
The race results were incredibly demotivating for Kyle Larson. He made contact with SVG during the incident, but the Kiwi was able to recover and make a record finish in P6 later on. Meanwhile, Kyle Larson is stuck defending his 2025 title on a difficult note.
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He is no longer one of the favorites for winning the 2026 titles. Larson’s off-season success, paired with the new format, gave him an advantage for his title defense.
Historically, Kyle Larson has been rather lackluster when it comes to drafting tracks. His average is around P20, which speaks volumes about his struggles. He is still trying to wrap his head around the superspeedways and other drafting tracks like Atlanta. The 2026 Daytona 500 wasn’t kind to him either.
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After getting involved in a multi-car wreck caused by Justin Allgaier, Larson would go on to finish P21 in the race. But he is not the only one facing issues at Hendrick Motorsports. Rick Hendrick‘s entire program has come under scrutiny after Atlanta.
Hendrick Motorsports faces backlash at Atlanta
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To put it into perspective, Hendrick Motorsports runs a four-car program in the NASCAR Cup Series and has a singular O’Reilly Series program with their developmental driver Corey Day. Yesterday’s race went from bad to worse for each one of them, as they are facing much criticism now with their performances.
It all started on Sunday with Corey Day wiping out nearly half of the field. He was able to scramble a P4 finish in the race, but his mistake proved disastrous for others. Day was trying to defend against Ryan Sieg, who had a great run coming around him. He crashed Sieg into the barrier, and the subsequent spinout took out multiple top-10 finishers from Daytona.
On Sunday, both William Byron and Kyle Larson brought chaos to the field. While Larson’s fumble only took him out and slightly pushed SVG to the back foot, Byron’s crash was much more disastrous. William Byron was mitigating damage from an earlier wreck in the final laps of the race.
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His car was handling pretty badly, and his steering had faded by that point. While trying to find clean air and limp back into the pits, he got tagged by Austin Cindric. This set off a chain reaction that took out multiple cars at once.
Byron shouldered the blame for the crash. “I just messed up. I was pushing hard and had to kind of put myself in some weird spots based on the damage. But, yeah, nothing like that, no tire.”
Meanwhile, both Chase Elliott and Alex Bowman could not make it to the top 10. Elliott may have won Atlanta’s second race last season, but he couldn’t bring the same magic to the sprint race this year. He is already struggling in the championship after a near miss at Daytona.
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Bowman’s race was also less than noteworthy. After suffering major damage in a multi-car wreck in an earlier stage, Bowman could only manage P23. For a team like Hendrick Motorsports, these results are concerning, especially considering the importance of consistency in the 2026 season.
Spire Motorsports Dragged Into $8 Million Legal Storm as Joe Gibbs Racing Demands Emergency Order
The flames are spreading from the JGR lawsuit. Less than a week after Joe Gibbs charged Chris Gabehart with “a brazen scheme to steal JGR’s most sensitive information,” he has pulled another entity into his accusative storm. That is none other than Jeff Dickerson’s team that Gabehart is set to join after leaving JGR. Gibbs also updated the lawsuit to elevate pressure on the defendants.
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The JGR lawsuit just rose up a notch
“Joe Gibbs Racing has filed a motion for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction requiring Chris Gabehart cease and desist working or performing any services for Spire similar to those he provided to JGR for the 18 months following February 9, 2026,” journalist Bob Pockrass wrote on X about the updated JGR lawsuit.
The initial JGR lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in the Western District of North Carolina, sought $8 million in damages. This was in response to Chris Gabehart’s alleged removal of proprietary information like payroll details and car setup factors. Gabehart immediately refuted the lawsuit’s claims, and soon after, Spire Motorsports announced Gabehart as Chief Motorsports Officer – but it did not know that JGR would retaliate.
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“JGR also has amended its complaint against Gabehart to include Spire Motorsports as a defendant,” Bob Pockrass tweeted.
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So Joe Gibbs is seeking to retrain both Chris Gabehart’s and Spire’s plans to work together this season. Aside from ceasing and desisting Gabehart, the updated JGR lawsuit also demands that he return any Confidential Information and Trade Secrets. It also asks Gabehart to return any device storing those secrets and allow forensic examination. Another demand is directed at Spire, so that it stops accepting Gabehart’s services “in violation of Gabehart’s noncompete obligations.”
Clearly, the JGR lawsuit took a fresh, wilder turn. Let’s wait and see how this intense development turns out.
Joe Gibbs Racing seeks restraining order to block Chris Gabehart from joining Spire
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Joe Gibbs Racing on Tuesday night asked for a restraining order preventing former competition director Chris Gabehart from working for Spire Motorsports. JGR also added Spire as a defendant in the lawsuit accusing Gabehart of embarking on “a brazen scheme to steal JGR’s most sensitive information.”
The amendment filed in the Western District of North Carolina asks that Gabehart be prevented from working for another NASCAR team in the same capacity he worked for JGR for 18 months.
The suit alleges Gabehart violated his contract and stole confidential team trade secrets when “his demands for additional authority were rebuffed by JGR’s owner.” JGR claims Gabehart has caused more than $8 million in damages to JGR.
JGR’s initial filing last week did not request an injunction preventing Gabehart from working for Spire, or name Spire as a defendant in the suit.
Spire said it would have a response to the amended filing on Wednesday.
JGR was founded by Joe Gibbs 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.
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.
The lawsuit claims Gabehart throughout last season wanted complete responsibility and control over all competition departments and asked Joe Gibbs in a Nov. 6, 2025, meeting for “carte blanche authority over all racing decisions.”
The suit said Gibbs denied the request and Gabehart said he wanted to leave the organization. In the course of negotiating a separation agreement, JGR alleges it learned Gabehart had been meeting with Spire Motorsports, which triggered the organization to do a forensic analysis of Gabehart’s team-issued laptop.
“The results were shocking,” the suit alleges, claiming it found Google searches about Spire in October and November of last year, folders titled “Spire” and “Past Setups” and more than a dozen images of JGR files containing confidential information and trade secrets.
The amended filing says Gabehart has not worked for JGR since Nov. 10, 2025, and turned in his laptop at that time.
JGR alleges it learned on Feb. 11 that Gabehart planned to become the chief motorsports officer at Spire, where he would be responsible for all of Spire’s racing strategy and operations. JGR’s amended filing includes a Feb. 9 termination of employment letter with Gabehart.
Spire co-owner Jeff Dickerson first confirmed he had hired Gabehart last weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
JGR contends Gabehart knew his actions accessing JGR materials was unlawful and he took intentional steps to avoid detection and hide his digital trail. The amendment claims Gabehart had knowledge of the forensic process because of another 2024 incident in which a former JGR employee illegally took information to a rival race team.
While that 2024 incident is widely known throughout the industry, JGR has never before publicly acknowledged it and did not take legal action against that former employee.
Cary Davis, the attorney representing Gabehart, has said he can not comment on the suit. Gabehart on social media last week called the claims “frivolous and retaliatory” and said a third-party expert had examined his laptop, cell phone and Google Drive and “found no evidence to support the baseless allegations in JGR’s lawsuit. We even offered JGR the opportunity to do a similar review of Spire’s systems. JGR refused that offer and filed this spiteful lawsuit instead.”
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North Dakota State Insider Reveals Stadium Status Amid FBS Move
While the nation’s biggest FBS stadiums have drawn well over 100,000 fans on a fall Saturday, recent newcomer North Dakota State has a small fraction of that capacity but the sound to match the blaring noise of the SEC and Big Ten.
North Dakota State’s home stadium, the 19,000-seat Fargodome, has reached 115 decibels for a game before during the Bison’s dominant FCS run of 10 national titles between 2011 and 2024. That puts a full Fargodome easily in the top-25 of noisiest venues based on USA Today’s Aggies Wire’s numbers, but the dome administration isn’t looking to expand seating yet to make the home environment more intimidating.
“The move to FBS doesn’t mean the Fargo Dome Authority is going to revisit another run at a renovation, at least immediately,” Fargo Dome Authoriy president David Suppes told NDSU insider Jeff Kolpack of the Fargo Forum last week.
According to Kolpack, the wide majority of Fargo residents voted down a $140 million proposal in 2024 to renovate the dome because of sales tax funding. However, the dome is also a finalist to have an addition with the new Fargo convention center, and Suppes informed Kolpack that NDSU’s move up could impact things.
“We’re working hard on that and it’s quite a bit of work,” Suppes said. “But this news coming out of NDSU being accepted to the Mountain West certainly adds another dynamic to the conversation.”
Bison HC Tim Polasek: ‘It’s Intimidating’
While the Fargo Dome is the third-smallest venue in the Mountain West, it could offer one of the toughest places to play for visiting teams.
That was the case in the FCS, where the Bison had a 38-2 record at home in the playoffs, and the Bison are 144-24 all-time at home since the dome opened in 1993. NDSU’s first game in the dome as a Division II program, and the matchup with Pittsburg State was on ESPN’s radar, per Bison Illustrated. Two decades later, ESPN’s CollegeGameday came three times during the Bison FCS dynasty.
“For coaches and players on the field, NDSU is a problem,” Bison head coach Tim Polasek told Kolpack. “The crowd noise, the in-game experience with the jumbotrons, as far as dealing with the environment — A-plus, it will be high in the Mountain West.”
Polasek noted that even the Bison tailgating environment gets visiting teams’ attention. He knows it will be the case in the FBS, too, after serving on staff with Iowa from 2017 to 2020 and Wyoming from 2021 to 2023.
“I get this from coaches who come here, if the bus driver takes a wrong turn and they go down by the tailgating, it’s intimidating,” Polasek said.
Expansion Not Needed For Bison
As Kolpack noted, the NCAA did away with the 15,000-fan minimum average for the FBS in 2023, so NDSU will only need to expand seating via renovation or a new stadium if the fan base grows to require it.
That said, NDSU could easily sit in the middle of the Mountain West pack for attendance. Air Force led attendance in 2025 with 39,441 fans per game, and San Jose State had a league low 18,265 fans per contest.
Best Phoenix restaurants near every spring stadium
Spring training season is one of the most exciting times of the year for baseball fans, especially in Arizona, where 15 of the MLB’s 30 teams share 10 spring training stadiums during the Cactus League season, which lasts from Feb. 20 through March 24.
If you’re bored of stadium food and want to end your day at the ballpark on a high note, or if you’re visiting from out of town and looking for a restaurant recommendation near the action, look no further. The Republic recently released its list of 100 essential restaurants for 2026, and many of the beloved restaurants are within a few miles of spring training stadiums.
Here is your guide to essential restaurants that are within a 4-mile radius (or about a 10-minute drive or less) from every spring training stadium in Arizona.
Restaurants near American Family Fields of Phoenix
American Family Fields of Phoenix, located at 3805 N. 53rd Ave. in Phoenix, is the spring training home to the Milwaukee Brewers.
Birriería Obregón
If you’re craving authentic Sonoran flavors, you must visit Birriería Obregón, a place where the specialties include seafood, birria, tacos and bichis (birria broth) along with caguamanta (manta ray stew) and beef head. Don’t miss breakfast, served with handmade flour or corn tortillas. And to finish on a sweet note, try one of their traditional Mexican desserts.
Details: 2500 N. 35th Ave., Phoenix. More locations at birrieriaobregonaz.com.
— Nadia Cantú
Great Wall Cuisine
As one of the first places in the Valley to specialize in dim sum, Great Wall has been like “the Grand Central station of the Asian community,” as the daughter of the couple who have run it since 1992 described it to The Republic. The large restaurant has been the go-to spot for community gatherings, business meetings and celebrations within the metro Phoenix Chinese and Asian American community. On weekdays and weekends, the dining room buzzes with conversation as people of all ages enjoy dim sum. When I visit, I always order the egg noodles, Chinese broccoli with oyster sauce and shrimp shu mai. Then, I get creative and mix it up, perhaps choosing their soft, sweet custard buns or the thick, spiced beef tripe. Just point and pick your own adventure from the array on the rolling carts.
Details: 3446 W. Camelback Road, #155, Phoenix. 602-973-1112, greatwallcuisineaz.com.
— Reia Li
Los Pinos Surf and Turf
Los Pinos serves the best grilled butterfly shrimp in the Valley. They come doused in butter, accompanied by a perfectly spicy salsa. This family-friendly restaurant echoes with cheerful music under the watchful eye of the taxidermy bulls on the wall. As the name implies, it’s the best place for Mexican surf and turf, from a filet mignon served with baked potato and asparagus to a hearty caldo de siete mares (seven seas soup). Wash it down with a michelada or their aguas frescas, which are natural and delicious. Live music on the weekend makes it feel like a party.
Details: 3618 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix. lospinossurfandturfaz.com.
— Nadia Cantú
Restaurants near Camelback Ranch-Glendale
Camelback Ranch-Glendale, located at 10710 W. Camelback Road in Phoenix, is the spring training home of the Chicago White Sox and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Mis Nietos Cocina Mexican Food
Mis Nietos Cocina Mexican Food is a small, cozy and family-friendly restaurant that offers the best homemade Mexican breakfasts in the West Valley. Freshly made tortillas, natural aguas frescas and crafted coffees are diner favorites. Be sure to try the red chilaquiles, served with beans and eggs any style.
Details: 10575 W. Indian School Road, Avondale. mi-cocina-mexican-food.menu-world.com.
— Nadia Cantú
Restaurants near Goodyear Ballpark
Goodyear Ballpark, located at 1933 S. Ballpark Way in Goodyear, is spring training home of the Cleveland Guardians and Cincinnati Reds.
PoNy’s Miches
In just a few short years, Jose “Pony” Flores and his wife, Analiz Gonzalez, grew PoNy’s Miches from a humble food truck to a fan-favorite restaurant that earned the third most votes in The Republic’s Top Taco 2024 for Gonzalez’s Baja-style seafood tacos. PoNy’s is the place to go for ceviche, micheladas and Mexican shrimp cocktails.
Details: 725 S. Estrella Pkwy., Goodyear. PoNy’s Miches on Facebook.
– Eddie Fontanez
Restaurants near Hohokam Stadium
Hohokam Stadium, located at 1235 N. Center St. in Mesa, is the spring training home of The Athletics.
Tacos Chiwas
Tacos Chiwas, Armando Hernández and Nadia Holguín’s debut restaurant, is basically taco heaven. If you’re ever in the mood to try all the imaginable taco variants, this is your ideal destination. From barbacoa, carne asada, lengua and al pastor tacos, to gorditas filled with picadillo and carne deshebrada, plus vegetarian options, Tacos Chiwas offers an incredible array of options and flavors, served with their very own Chihuahuan twist.
Details: 127 W. Main St., Mesa. 480-590-7163. More locations at tacoschiwas.com.
— Paula Soria
Myke’s Pizza
To find the best wood fired pizza in the East Valley, you’ll have to take a trip to the Cider Corps taproom in downtown Mesa. On my first visit, I marveled at the hanging Army helmets repurposed as lamps at the bar, listened to the tune of Chick Corea’s jazzy piano and sent my taste buds into overjoyed overdrive with one bite of the melt in your mouth blend of mozzarella, provolone and gouda cheeses and the savory-sweet sensation of the crushed tomato sauce on my pie. Whether you’re daring enough to try such adventurous creations as the butternut squash or chorizo and olive pizzas, or you stick with a traditional pepperoni pizza, the high-quality and flavorful ingredients will ensure it’s an experience you want to repeat as often as possible.
Details: 31 S. Robson, Suite 103, Mesa. 480-687-8526, mykespizza.com.
— Michael Salerno
Restaurants near Peoria Sports Complex
Peoria Sports Complex, located at 16101 N. 83rd Ave. in Peoria, is the spring training home of the San Diego Padres and Seattle Mariners.
Fabio on Fire Pizzeria Italiana
Cozy is the first word that comes to mind when you first enter Fabio on Fire Pizzeria Italiana. Then the food arrives and that’s all you’ll be able to think about. Housemade bread in no time. You might end up ordering a second basket. Yes, it’s that good. But save room for other starters, like burrata with roasted tomatoes and pesto. Sharp basil gives life to the perfectly creamy burrata and the tomatoes add a warm acidity. Then move on to the main event, the pizza pies, with the likes of the Bianca Parma topped with arugula, parmesan and prosciutto. Every element holds its own and together they are more than the sum of their parts. Not unlike this charming, delicious restaurant.
Details: 8275 W. Lake Pleasant Parkway, Peoria. 623-680-5385, fabioonfire.com.
— Bahar Anooshahr
Restaurants near Salt River Fields at Talking Stick
Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, located at 7555 N. Pima Road in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community near Scottsdale, is the spring training home of the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies.
Andreoli Italian Grocer
When you walk into Andreoli’s it feels like you’re entering someone’s home, not a restaurant. The cozy space has family photos papering the walls, rustic tables and chairs and a cute patio perfect for dining under the stars. But the real star is the food. The menu is filled with Italian classics like cured meats and cheeses; massive sandwiches served on focaccia and pasta options ranging from delicate potato gnocchi to hearty rigatoni. Plus, the dessert case is always filled with delectable fresh cannoli, cakes and pastries.
Details: 8880 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale. 480-614-1980, andreoli-grocer.com.
— Meredith G. White
Il Bosco Pizza
Il Bosco Pizza was named the best pizza in Phoenix by The Republic’s readers in a 2025 pizza poll, and I can’t think of a more deserving choice. Shortly after the pizza poll, I took my partner on a date to Il Bosco’s downtown Phoenix location and we completely devoured a wood-fired mushroom pizza and caprese salad. Even the gluten-free crust, made from a combination of tapioca and rice flour, is the perfect blend of soft, doughy edges and a crusty bottom.
Details: 7120 E. Becker Lane, Scottsdale. 480-335-8680. More locations at ilboscopizza.com.
— Eddie Fontanez
Indibar
Indibar is fun and a little loud and totally unexpected. Think fine dining but not pretentious. The chefs took Indian sauces and curries and paired them with elevated proteins and presentations with much success. I’m not going to recommend specific dishes because the chefs here execute everything well, just follow your bliss and have fun. If you order lunch for delivery, it will come in metal tiffins. Utterly charming. A recently added 10-course tasting menu offers its own unique journey and beverage pairing. Not your usual night out.
Details: 6208 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. 480-219-9774, theindibar.com.
— Bahar Anooshahr
The Stand
The Stand is a tiny, roadside food tent in the Salt River Pima Community near Scottsdale. It may not look like much from outside, but The Stand has been serving some of the best fry bread tacos in metro Phoenix for over 20 years. Just follow the smell of fresh-baked bread and warm chili to owner Mick Washington’s front yard, where familiar neighbors and curious visitors alike line up fry bread topped with red chili, green chili or beans and cheese, even in the heat of the Arizona summer.
Details: 3996 N. Alma School Road, near Scottsdale. 480-519-1108, The Stand on Facebook.
– Eddie Fontanez
Restaurants near Sloan Park
Sloan Park, located at 2330 W. Rio Salado Parkway in Mesa, is the spring training home to the Chicago Cubs.
Mekong Palace
Mekong Palace was one of the original restaurants that opened with Mekong Plaza in 2008. Since then, the plaza has gone from nearly empty to a bustling hub for Asian food, and the dim sum restaurant has played no small part in that. The large, open space is filled with intergenerational families chatting over steaming cups of jasmine tea. Aunties with impeccably neat hairstyles zip between tables touting an array of dim sum on their carts. On a recent visit, one proudly pointed out the shrimp shu mai and the tofu roll stuffed with mushrooms and bamboo that she’d hand-rolled herself. It’s the kind of place you can sit and talk with a friend for hours, savoring bite after bite of creamy egg tarts.
Details: 66 S. Dobson Road, Suite 120, Mesa. 480-962-0493, mekongpalace.com.
— Reia Li
Jin BBQ
If you’re searching for good Korean BBQ, then Jin BBQ is the place for you. Not only do you get plenty of meat options to choose from (everything from bulgogi to marinated short ribs and sliced brisket) but your meal comes with unlimited banchan (small side dishes) like corn with cheese, steamed eggs, kimchi, macaroni salad and more. The staff are super friendly and frequently replace the grill with a clean one. There’s plenty of other things to order off the menu, too, like a seafood pancake the size of your head, kimchi stew or fried rice.
Details: 111 S. Dobson Road, Mesa. 480-687-2124, jinbbq.com.
— Meredith G. White
Shaanxi Garden
We should all be grateful that the Valley has a restaurant like Shaanxi Garden. It specializes in the cuisine of northwestern China, which is known for its noodles and the use of lamb and cumin, thanks to its historic position on the Silk Road. Shaanxi Garden’s handmade thick, chewy noodles are the stuff of dreams. I drool over their cumin biang biang noodles with lamb. They’re also one of the few places in the Valley where you can find malatang, a spicy, creamy Sichuan soup. Our Chinese food scene is all the richer for a gem like Shaanxi Garden.
Details: 67 N. Dobson Road, #109, Mesa. 480-733-8888. @shaanxigarden on Instagram.
— Reia Li
Restaurants near Scottsdale Stadium
Scottsdale Stadium, located at 7408 E. Osborn Road in Scottsdale, is the spring training home of the San Francisco Giants.
DeFalco’s Italian Deli & Grocery
Fulfilling a craving for just about any type of Italian specialty or sandwich leads me to DeFalco’s. The family-owned Scottsdale institution, with a menu based on family recipes passed down for a century, continues to be packed with diners old and young for everything from pizza and pasta to cheesesteaks and homemade sausage sandwiches. Consider getting a sweet treat from the dessert case, like their New York style cheesecake. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
Details: 2334 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. 480-990-8660, defalcosdeli.com.
— Michael Salerno
FnB
FnB is an essential restaurant for multiple reasons. In a state where cattle is one of five major economic drivers, James Beard Award-winning chef and co-owner Charleen Badman champions vegetables in her restaurant, and has been since long before it was common or cool to do so. The inventive, vegetable-forward menu earned her a James Beard award for Best Chef Southwest in 2019. She still procures local products whenever possible, including Arizona wine, such as Los Milics, her business partner Pavle Milic’s winery. Her contributions go beyond the walls of her restaurant. Badman launched The Blue Watermelon Project in 2017, recruiting Valley chefs to improve school lunches and teach children farm-to-table cooking. She’s a true icon of Arizona dining and so’s her restaurant.
Details: FnB, 7125 E. Fifth Ave., Scottsdale. 480-284-4777, fnbrestaurant.com.
– Bahar Anooshahr
Restaurants near Surprise Stadium
Surprise Stadium, located at 15850 N. Bullard Ave. in Surprise, is the spring training home of the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers.
Rito’s Mexican Food
Family-owned Rito’s Mexican Food first opened in 1977 inside the home of Rosemary and Rito Salinas. Now, the business has grown to a Mexican restaurant empire with four locations in the Valley. Rito’s is most famous for its signature green chili burritos, made with diced beef cooked in green sauce with green chili, jalapenos, tomatoes and onions in a flour tortilla. They’re so good, they won the Burrito Bracket in 2023.
Details: 15643 N. Reems Road, Surprise. 907 N. 14th St., Phoenix. 602-262-9842. Other locations at ritosmexicanfood.com.
— Eddie Fontanez
Restaurants near Tempe Diablo Stadium
Tempe Diablo Stadium, located at 2200 W. Alameda Drive in Tempe, is the spring training home of the Los Angeles Angels.
The Chuckbox
A half-pound cheeseburger, fries and a drink for less than $20 seems unthinkable in today’s economy. But Arizonans can find this unbeatable bargain if they order the Great Big One at The Chuckbox, an old-school burger joint near the Arizona State University campus in Tempe, which has been open since 1972. Aside from being reasonably priced, the burgers are phenomenal. Mesquite grilled to perfection, they pair well with the unlimited ketchup, pickles, onions and jalapeños from the condiment bar. The Arizona Republic readers chose well when they crowned The Chuckbox the winner of our best burger poll in 2024. Make sure to bring cash, they don’t take credit cards.
Details: 202 E. University Drive, Tempe. 480-968-4712, thechuckbox.com.
— Michael Salerno
Cafe Lalibela
This family-run establishment was one of Arizona’s first Ethiopian restaurants when it opened in 1996, serving traditional Ethiopian fare made from owner Anibal Abayneh’s mother’s recipes in a welcoming environment that celebrates the culture. If you’re into sharing food with friends, this is a perfect place to do just that while sampling much of what the menu has to offer by ordering a platter and digging in with your injera, the spongy Ethiopian bread that’s used as a utensil. The Lalibela Deluxe, a combination platter whose highlights range from doro wat (spicy chicken stew) to fosolia (a dish made with green beans and carrots) is recommended for parties of two, but it could just as easily serve three or four.
Details: 849 W. University Dr., Tempe. 480-829-1939, cafelalibela.com.
— Ed Masley
Casey Moore’s Oyster House
Casey Moore’s Oyster House has been an iconic hangout spot near ASU for generations. But you don’t need to be in college to enjoy a late-night order of raw oysters or steamed clams. Even if seafood isn’t your thing, Casey Moore’s also offers a large menu of burgers, sandwiches and hot dogs. There are over a dozen beers on tap and even more whiskey. Local legend suggests the bar is haunted, but that has never stopped me from enjoying a game on the TVs. Still, the patio remains my favorite place to spend hours on a cool autumn night, sharing appetizers and conversation with friends.
Details: 850 S. Ash Ave., Tempe. 480-968-9935, caseymoores.com.
— Eddie Fontanez
Reach the reporter at eddie.fontanez@azcentral.com. Follow @ERFontanez on Instagram.
How far do teams travel?
The trucks have been packed, shipped east or west and unloaded. Players have assembled from all over the globe.
And the gates are now open for fans to engage in a timeless ritual: Spring training baseball begins Feb. 20.
With workouts for all 30 teams underway and games soon to begin in Florida’s Grapefruit League and Arizona’s Cactus League, Major League Baseball’s preseason is in full swing. All 15 Arizona teams are squeezed into the Phoenix area, but the other half are fanned out in four distinct nooks of Florida.
They’ll be posted there from now until the third week of March, when games wrap up and teams head north (most of them, anyway) for final exhibition games before the regular season begins March 25-27.
Where do MLB teams play for spring training?
As mentioned, it’s split right down the middle − half in Arizona, half in Florida. All teams in the American League and National League West train in Arizona, save for the Houston Astros, who are headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida. All the American League and National League East and Central teams train in Florida except the Ohio-based Cleveland Guardians and Cincinnati Reds, who share a facility in Goodyear, Arizona.
When do players report?
Teams require pitchers and catchers to arrive a few days early; the rest of the team (position players) have to report by Tuesday, Feb. 17.
How far do MLB teams travel to spring training?
The annual arrival of
Leeds’ Elland Road to Become One of UK’s Biggest Stadiums
Elland Road is one of the most iconic stadiums in English football, and it looks set for a huge upgrade in the coming years. That’s at least the plan for Leeds United’s billionaire owners, with Jed York vowing to put the city
How the White Stadium project’s cost compares to other stadiums
The Globe examined soccer stadium projects in Seattle, Denver, and Kansas City, Mo., all of which are being developed or were completed within the last two years. While none is an exact replica of the split-funding plan in Boston, they each are designed to be homes to women’s professional soccer teams or, in Seattle’s case, specifically for high school student-athletes, just as in Boston.
Seattle is pursuing a $150 million publicly funded redevelopment of a 6,500-seat stadium, with help from private donors. In Denver, the Summit FC team is footing the $200 million bill for a new stadium, with the city paying $70 million for land and other costs. Kansas City’s two-year-old women’s soccer venue cost a reported $140 million.
Meanwhile in Boston, costs have jumped more than 60 percent from an initial projection of $200 million.
Wu has attributed the price spike for the 10,000-seat White Stadium to the impact of tariffs on building supplies; inflation that, in a span of just a few years, has significantly driven up prices; and updates suggested by the surrounding community that she said would “make the project better and therefore more expensive.”
Experts said developing and building a huge project can also simply cost more in Boston than in other major metro areas, given many use unionized labor, and that in general, wages here reflect the region’s high cost of living. The permitting process here can also be expensive.
The revamped White Stadium is expected to open in the summer of 2027.
Emma Pettit, a Wu spokesperson, said in a statement that city officials “caution against drawing comparisons with facilities built for different purposes, in different years, and in different markets.”
“Rebuilding White Stadium will be the largest investment in BPS athletics and Franklin Park since the stadium was constructed in 1949,” Pettit said. “We are excited that construction is now underway.”
Under the city’s agreement with Boston Legacy FC, the team will spend at least $190 million on the renovation, while Boston will put in $135 million — which Wu insists will be the limit of the city’s share. The team will also pay more than $62 million over the coming years in rent to the city, and on maintenance for the stadium, improvements to Franklin Park, and other community benefits.
Wu officials have called it a historic and innovative deal: a private team investing a nine-figure sum to help build a valuable public asset, but will remain owned and controlled by BPS. The new facility will also be open to the public 365 days a year, including the 20 days the professional soccer team can host home games, and will be an “economic driver” in the area, Wu’s office said.
Other comparable stadiums — both those still in the works, and one that is completed — don’t come near the total cost of White Stadium.
The Kansas City Current built the 11,500-seat CPKC Stadium for about $117 million in 2024, though that does not include additional infrastructure improvements, according to a Kansas City official. The cost ultimately rose to a reported $140 million, nearly double the original $70 million estimate.
The team did receive $6 million in state tax credits and up to $8 million in reimbursements for utility work, funded by revenue from a port improvement district sales tax.
Like the Boston Legacy, the Current play in the National Women’s Soccer League.
Another NWSL team, the Denver Summit FC, is planning a 14,500-seat stadium on a large lot that once housed a rubber factory, with the team expected to spend $200 million. The facility is forecast to be open in 2028.
While the stadium itself is privately funded, it was contingent on Denver purchasing the land and making improvements for a total of $70 million.
“It’s a historically contaminated site that . . . has been nothing valuable to [my] community but a big divide and blight,” said City Councilor Flor Alvidrez.
The location of the Denver facility is in contrast to that of White Stadium in Franklin Park, considered the crown jewel of Frederick Law Olmsted’s network of public parks known as the Emerald Necklace. The environmental nonprofit the Emerald Necklace Conservancy and a number of Boston residents have sued the city to stop the project, and further called on the city to renovate it without the involvement of a private soccer team.
Seattle is doing just that, with a $150 million effort to renovate Seattle Public Schools’ Memorial Stadium. At 6,500 seats, it will be smaller than Boston’s new White Stadium, but would be funded largely by the city and the school district, with about $30 million coming from private donors.
The Seattle school district originally budgeted $66.5 million to replace the aging stadium, but decided to upgrade the plans, said Fred Podesta, the district’s chief operations officer. The stadium would primarily be used by students, but officials said it could also host concerts or professional sports games, which could also help defray maintenance costs.
“We arrived at a design and a cost that is going to serve everybody’s needs,” Podesta said.
That the cost of White Stadium is far higher than each of those isn’t surprising to some experts.
Development is extremely expensive in Massachusetts compared to other states for a variety of reasons, from the web of building and environmental regulations that developers must follow to the cost of land, said John Ferrante, chief executive of Associated General Contractors of Massachusetts.
The construction industry is also largely unionized, and labor can be one of the biggest line items in a project budget, he said.
“The cost of living here is quite high, and so obviously we’re trying to compensate people so that they can afford to live in the communities that they’re building in,” Ferrante said.
Renovations such as the White Stadium project can also be more expensive than a new build, he added. There’s more uncertainty over what will be uncovered, such as asbestos or unexpected wiring, and there are additional costs that come with preserving any part of the original structure, Ferrante said.
Tariffs and inflation have also caused the price of materials to skyrocket, making it far more expensive to build now than even just one or two years ago, said Robert Koshgarian, head of the sports and entertainment project development team at the national real estate firm JLL.
“It’s massive,” Koshgarian said. “I’ve had contractors tell me that they’re seeing somewhere near [a] 40 percent increase.”
Wu has argued that Boston could not build a new stadium of the caliber she says students deserve for much less than the $135 million the city is spending.
Other stadium projects also carry hefty price tags. In nearby Everett, the Kraft Group is planning to spend an estimated $500 million to build a new stadium for the New England Revolution that could hold up to 24,000 fans.
Still, some critics aren’t sold on Wu’s plan. Andrew Zimbalist, an economics professor at Smith College, said a stadium that’s designed to cater to both a professional team and high school athletes is “a kind of a hybrid that doesn’t exist.”
“The project is bad for high school sports,” he said, “and it’s not good for Boston women’s soccer to have only half of a professional stadium.”
New UFL owner Mike Repole all in on St. Louis, Battlehawks
Lynn Worthy | Post-Dispatch
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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:
North Dakota State Insider Reveals Stadium Status Amid FBS Move
While the nation’s biggest FBS stadiums have drawn well over 100,000 fans on a fall Saturday, recent newcomer North Dakota State has a small fraction of that capacity but the sound to match the blaring noise of the SEC and Big Ten.
North Dakota State’s home stadium, the 19,000-seat Fargodome, has reached 115 decibels for a game before during the Bison’s dominant FCS run of 10 national titles between 2011 and 2024. That puts a full Fargodome easily in the top-25 of noisiest venues based on USA Today’s Aggies Wire’s numbers, but the dome administration isn’t looking to expand seating yet to make the home environment more intimidating.
“The move to FBS doesn’t mean the Fargo Dome Authority is going to revisit another run at a renovation, at least immediately,” Fargo Dome Authoriy president David Suppes told NDSU insider Jeff Kolpack of the Fargo Forum last week.
According to Kolpack, the wide majority of Fargo residents voted down a $140 million proposal in 2024 to renovate the dome because of sales tax funding. However, the dome is also a finalist to have an addition with the new Fargo convention center, and Suppes informed Kolpack that NDSU’s move up could impact things.
“We’re working hard on that and it’s quite a bit of work,” Suppes said. “But this news coming out of NDSU being accepted to the Mountain West certainly adds another dynamic to the conversation.”
Bison HC Tim Polasek: ‘It’s Intimidating’
While the Fargo Dome is the third-smallest venue in the Mountain West, it could offer one of the toughest places to play for visiting teams.
That was the case in the FCS, where the Bison had a 38-2 record at home in the playoffs, and the Bison are 144-24 all-time at home since the dome opened in 1993. NDSU’s first game in the dome as a Division II program, and the matchup with Pittsburg State was on ESPN’s radar, per Bison Illustrated. Two decades later, ESPN’s CollegeGameday came three times during the Bison FCS dynasty.
“For coaches and players on the field, NDSU is a problem,” Bison head coach Tim Polasek told Kolpack. “The crowd noise, the in-game experience with the jumbotrons, as far as dealing with the environment — A-plus, it will be high in the Mountain West.”
Polasek noted that even the Bison tailgating environment gets visiting teams’ attention. He knows it will be the case in the FBS, too, after serving on staff with Iowa from 2017 to 2020 and Wyoming from 2021 to 2023.
“I get this from coaches who come here, if the bus driver takes a wrong turn and they go down by the tailgating, it’s intimidating,” Polasek said.
Expansion Not Needed For Bison
As Kolpack noted, the NCAA did away with the 15,000-fan minimum average for the FBS in 2023, so NDSU will only need to expand seating via renovation or a new stadium if the fan base grows to require it.
That said, NDSU could easily sit in the middle of the Mountain West pack for attendance. Air Force led attendance in 2025 with 39,441 fans per game, and San Jose State had a league low 18,265 fans per contest.
Best Phoenix restaurants near every spring stadium
Spring training season is one of the most exciting times of the year for baseball fans, especially in Arizona, where 15 of the MLB’s 30 teams share 10 spring training stadiums during the Cactus League season, which lasts from Feb. 20 through March 24.
If you’re bored of stadium food and want to end your day at the ballpark on a high note, or if you’re visiting from out of town and looking for a restaurant recommendation near the action, look no further. The Republic recently released its list of 100 essential restaurants for 2026, and many of the beloved restaurants are within a few miles of spring training stadiums.
Here is your guide to essential restaurants that are within a 4-mile radius (or about a 10-minute drive or less) from every spring training stadium in Arizona.
Restaurants near American Family Fields of Phoenix
American Family Fields of Phoenix, located at 3805 N. 53rd Ave. in Phoenix, is the spring training home to the Milwaukee Brewers.
Birriería Obregón
If you’re craving authentic Sonoran flavors, you must visit Birriería Obregón, a place where the specialties include seafood, birria, tacos and bichis (birria broth) along with caguamanta (manta ray stew) and beef head. Don’t miss breakfast, served with handmade flour or corn tortillas. And to finish on a sweet note, try one of their traditional Mexican desserts.
Details: 2500 N. 35th Ave., Phoenix. More locations at birrieriaobregonaz.com.
— Nadia Cantú
Great Wall Cuisine
As one of the first places in the Valley to specialize in dim sum, Great Wall has been like “the Grand Central station of the Asian community,” as the daughter of the couple who have run it since 1992 described it to The Republic. The large restaurant has been the go-to spot for community gatherings, business meetings and celebrations within the metro Phoenix Chinese and Asian American community. On weekdays and weekends, the dining room buzzes with conversation as people of all ages enjoy dim sum. When I visit, I always order the egg noodles, Chinese broccoli with oyster sauce and shrimp shu mai. Then, I get creative and mix it up, perhaps choosing their soft, sweet custard buns or the thick, spiced beef tripe. Just point and pick your own adventure from the array on the rolling carts.
Details: 3446 W. Camelback Road, #155, Phoenix. 602-973-1112, greatwallcuisineaz.com.
— Reia Li
Los Pinos Surf and Turf
Los Pinos serves the best grilled butterfly shrimp in the Valley. They come doused in butter, accompanied by a perfectly spicy salsa. This family-friendly restaurant echoes with cheerful music under the watchful eye of the taxidermy bulls on the wall. As the name implies, it’s the best place for Mexican surf and turf, from a filet mignon served with baked potato and asparagus to a hearty caldo de siete mares (seven seas soup). Wash it down with a michelada or their aguas frescas, which are natural and delicious. Live music on the weekend makes it feel like a party.
Details: 3618 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix. lospinossurfandturfaz.com.
— Nadia Cantú
Restaurants near Camelback Ranch-Glendale
Camelback Ranch-Glendale, located at 10710 W. Camelback Road in Phoenix, is the spring training home of the Chicago White Sox and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Mis Nietos Cocina Mexican Food
Mis Nietos Cocina Mexican Food is a small, cozy and family-friendly restaurant that offers the best homemade Mexican breakfasts in the West Valley. Freshly made tortillas, natural aguas frescas and crafted coffees are diner favorites. Be sure to try the red chilaquiles, served with beans and eggs any style.
Details: 10575 W. Indian School Road, Avondale. mi-cocina-mexican-food.menu-world.com.
— Nadia Cantú
Restaurants near Goodyear Ballpark
Goodyear Ballpark, located at 1933 S. Ballpark Way in Goodyear, is spring training home of the Cleveland Guardians and Cincinnati Reds.
PoNy’s Miches
In just a few short years, Jose “Pony” Flores and his wife, Analiz Gonzalez, grew PoNy’s Miches from a humble food truck to a fan-favorite restaurant that earned the third most votes in The Republic’s Top Taco 2024 for Gonzalez’s Baja-style seafood tacos. PoNy’s is the place to go for ceviche, micheladas and Mexican shrimp cocktails.
Details: 725 S. Estrella Pkwy., Goodyear. PoNy’s Miches on Facebook.
– Eddie Fontanez
Restaurants near Hohokam Stadium
Hohokam Stadium, located at 1235 N. Center St. in Mesa, is the spring training home of The Athletics.
Tacos Chiwas
Tacos Chiwas, Armando Hernández and Nadia Holguín’s debut restaurant, is basically taco heaven. If you’re ever in the mood to try all the imaginable taco variants, this is your ideal destination. From barbacoa, carne asada, lengua and al pastor tacos, to gorditas filled with picadillo and carne deshebrada, plus vegetarian options, Tacos Chiwas offers an incredible array of options and flavors, served with their very own Chihuahuan twist.
Details: 127 W. Main St., Mesa. 480-590-7163. More locations at tacoschiwas.com.
— Paula Soria
Myke’s Pizza
To find the best wood fired pizza in the East Valley, you’ll have to take a trip to the Cider Corps taproom in downtown Mesa. On my first visit, I marveled at the hanging Army helmets repurposed as lamps at the bar, listened to the tune of Chick Corea’s jazzy piano and sent my taste buds into overjoyed overdrive with one bite of the melt in your mouth blend of mozzarella, provolone and gouda cheeses and the savory-sweet sensation of the crushed tomato sauce on my pie. Whether you’re daring enough to try such adventurous creations as the butternut squash or chorizo and olive pizzas, or you stick with a traditional pepperoni pizza, the high-quality and flavorful ingredients will ensure it’s an experience you want to repeat as often as possible.
Details: 31 S. Robson, Suite 103, Mesa. 480-687-8526, mykespizza.com.
— Michael Salerno
Restaurants near Peoria Sports Complex
Peoria Sports Complex, located at 16101 N. 83rd Ave. in Peoria, is the spring training home of the San Diego Padres and Seattle Mariners.
Fabio on Fire Pizzeria Italiana
Cozy is the first word that comes to mind when you first enter Fabio on Fire Pizzeria Italiana. Then the food arrives and that’s all you’ll be able to think about. Housemade bread in no time. You might end up ordering a second basket. Yes, it’s that good. But save room for other starters, like burrata with roasted tomatoes and pesto. Sharp basil gives life to the perfectly creamy burrata and the tomatoes add a warm acidity. Then move on to the main event, the pizza pies, with the likes of the Bianca Parma topped with arugula, parmesan and prosciutto. Every element holds its own and together they are more than the sum of their parts. Not unlike this charming, delicious restaurant.
Details: 8275 W. Lake Pleasant Parkway, Peoria. 623-680-5385, fabioonfire.com.
— Bahar Anooshahr
Restaurants near Salt River Fields at Talking Stick
Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, located at 7555 N. Pima Road in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community near Scottsdale, is the spring training home of the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies.
Andreoli Italian Grocer
When you walk into Andreoli’s it feels like you’re entering someone’s home, not a restaurant. The cozy space has family photos papering the walls, rustic tables and chairs and a cute patio perfect for dining under the stars. But the real star is the food. The menu is filled with Italian classics like cured meats and cheeses; massive sandwiches served on focaccia and pasta options ranging from delicate potato gnocchi to hearty rigatoni. Plus, the dessert case is always filled with delectable fresh cannoli, cakes and pastries.
Details: 8880 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale. 480-614-1980, andreoli-grocer.com.
— Meredith G. White
Il Bosco Pizza
Il Bosco Pizza was named the best pizza in Phoenix by The Republic’s readers in a 2025 pizza poll, and I can’t think of a more deserving choice. Shortly after the pizza poll, I took my partner on a date to Il Bosco’s downtown Phoenix location and we completely devoured a wood-fired mushroom pizza and caprese salad. Even the gluten-free crust, made from a combination of tapioca and rice flour, is the perfect blend of soft, doughy edges and a crusty bottom.
Details: 7120 E. Becker Lane, Scottsdale. 480-335-8680. More locations at ilboscopizza.com.
— Eddie Fontanez
Indibar
Indibar is fun and a little loud and totally unexpected. Think fine dining but not pretentious. The chefs took Indian sauces and curries and paired them with elevated proteins and presentations with much success. I’m not going to recommend specific dishes because the chefs here execute everything well, just follow your bliss and have fun. If you order lunch for delivery, it will come in metal tiffins. Utterly charming. A recently added 10-course tasting menu offers its own unique journey and beverage pairing. Not your usual night out.
Details: 6208 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. 480-219-9774, theindibar.com.
— Bahar Anooshahr
The Stand
The Stand is a tiny, roadside food tent in the Salt River Pima Community near Scottsdale. It may not look like much from outside, but The Stand has been serving some of the best fry bread tacos in metro Phoenix for over 20 years. Just follow the smell of fresh-baked bread and warm chili to owner Mick Washington’s front yard, where familiar neighbors and curious visitors alike line up fry bread topped with red chili, green chili or beans and cheese, even in the heat of the Arizona summer.
Details: 3996 N. Alma School Road, near Scottsdale. 480-519-1108, The Stand on Facebook.
– Eddie Fontanez
Restaurants near Sloan Park
Sloan Park, located at 2330 W. Rio Salado Parkway in Mesa, is the spring training home to the Chicago Cubs.
Mekong Palace
Mekong Palace was one of the original restaurants that opened with Mekong Plaza in 2008. Since then, the plaza has gone from nearly empty to a bustling hub for Asian food, and the dim sum restaurant has played no small part in that. The large, open space is filled with intergenerational families chatting over steaming cups of jasmine tea. Aunties with impeccably neat hairstyles zip between tables touting an array of dim sum on their carts. On a recent visit, one proudly pointed out the shrimp shu mai and the tofu roll stuffed with mushrooms and bamboo that she’d hand-rolled herself. It’s the kind of place you can sit and talk with a friend for hours, savoring bite after bite of creamy egg tarts.
Details: 66 S. Dobson Road, Suite 120, Mesa. 480-962-0493, mekongpalace.com.
— Reia Li
Jin BBQ
If you’re searching for good Korean BBQ, then Jin BBQ is the place for you. Not only do you get plenty of meat options to choose from (everything from bulgogi to marinated short ribs and sliced brisket) but your meal comes with unlimited banchan (small side dishes) like corn with cheese, steamed eggs, kimchi, macaroni salad and more. The staff are super friendly and frequently replace the grill with a clean one. There’s plenty of other things to order off the menu, too, like a seafood pancake the size of your head, kimchi stew or fried rice.
Details: 111 S. Dobson Road, Mesa. 480-687-2124, jinbbq.com.
— Meredith G. White
Shaanxi Garden
We should all be grateful that the Valley has a restaurant like Shaanxi Garden. It specializes in the cuisine of northwestern China, which is known for its noodles and the use of lamb and cumin, thanks to its historic position on the Silk Road. Shaanxi Garden’s handmade thick, chewy noodles are the stuff of dreams. I drool over their cumin biang biang noodles with lamb. They’re also one of the few places in the Valley where you can find malatang, a spicy, creamy Sichuan soup. Our Chinese food scene is all the richer for a gem like Shaanxi Garden.
Details: 67 N. Dobson Road, #109, Mesa. 480-733-8888. @shaanxigarden on Instagram.
— Reia Li
Restaurants near Scottsdale Stadium
Scottsdale Stadium, located at 7408 E. Osborn Road in Scottsdale, is the spring training home of the San Francisco Giants.
DeFalco’s Italian Deli & Grocery
Fulfilling a craving for just about any type of Italian specialty or sandwich leads me to DeFalco’s. The family-owned Scottsdale institution, with a menu based on family recipes passed down for a century, continues to be packed with diners old and young for everything from pizza and pasta to cheesesteaks and homemade sausage sandwiches. Consider getting a sweet treat from the dessert case, like their New York style cheesecake. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
Details: 2334 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. 480-990-8660, defalcosdeli.com.
— Michael Salerno
FnB
FnB is an essential restaurant for multiple reasons. In a state where cattle is one of five major economic drivers, James Beard Award-winning chef and co-owner Charleen Badman champions vegetables in her restaurant, and has been since long before it was common or cool to do so. The inventive, vegetable-forward menu earned her a James Beard award for Best Chef Southwest in 2019. She still procures local products whenever possible, including Arizona wine, such as Los Milics, her business partner Pavle Milic’s winery. Her contributions go beyond the walls of her restaurant. Badman launched The Blue Watermelon Project in 2017, recruiting Valley chefs to improve school lunches and teach children farm-to-table cooking. She’s a true icon of Arizona dining and so’s her restaurant.
Details: FnB, 7125 E. Fifth Ave., Scottsdale. 480-284-4777, fnbrestaurant.com.
– Bahar Anooshahr
Restaurants near Surprise Stadium
Surprise Stadium, located at 15850 N. Bullard Ave. in Surprise, is the spring training home of the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers.
Rito’s Mexican Food
Family-owned Rito’s Mexican Food first opened in 1977 inside the home of Rosemary and Rito Salinas. Now, the business has grown to a Mexican restaurant empire with four locations in the Valley. Rito’s is most famous for its signature green chili burritos, made with diced beef cooked in green sauce with green chili, jalapenos, tomatoes and onions in a flour tortilla. They’re so good, they won the Burrito Bracket in 2023.
Details: 15643 N. Reems Road, Surprise. 907 N. 14th St., Phoenix. 602-262-9842. Other locations at ritosmexicanfood.com.
— Eddie Fontanez
Restaurants near Tempe Diablo Stadium
Tempe Diablo Stadium, located at 2200 W. Alameda Drive in Tempe, is the spring training home of the Los Angeles Angels.
The Chuckbox
A half-pound cheeseburger, fries and a drink for less than $20 seems unthinkable in today’s economy. But Arizonans can find this unbeatable bargain if they order the Great Big One at The Chuckbox, an old-school burger joint near the Arizona State University campus in Tempe, which has been open since 1972. Aside from being reasonably priced, the burgers are phenomenal. Mesquite grilled to perfection, they pair well with the unlimited ketchup, pickles, onions and jalapeños from the condiment bar. The Arizona Republic readers chose well when they crowned The Chuckbox the winner of our best burger poll in 2024. Make sure to bring cash, they don’t take credit cards.
Details: 202 E. University Drive, Tempe. 480-968-4712, thechuckbox.com.
— Michael Salerno
Cafe Lalibela
This family-run establishment was one of Arizona’s first Ethiopian restaurants when it opened in 1996, serving traditional Ethiopian fare made from owner Anibal Abayneh’s mother’s recipes in a welcoming environment that celebrates the culture. If you’re into sharing food with friends, this is a perfect place to do just that while sampling much of what the menu has to offer by ordering a platter and digging in with your injera, the spongy Ethiopian bread that’s used as a utensil. The Lalibela Deluxe, a combination platter whose highlights range from doro wat (spicy chicken stew) to fosolia (a dish made with green beans and carrots) is recommended for parties of two, but it could just as easily serve three or four.
Details: 849 W. University Dr., Tempe. 480-829-1939, cafelalibela.com.
— Ed Masley
Casey Moore’s Oyster House
Casey Moore’s Oyster House has been an iconic hangout spot near ASU for generations. But you don’t need to be in college to enjoy a late-night order of raw oysters or steamed clams. Even if seafood isn’t your thing, Casey Moore’s also offers a large menu of burgers, sandwiches and hot dogs. There are over a dozen beers on tap and even more whiskey. Local legend suggests the bar is haunted, but that has never stopped me from enjoying a game on the TVs. Still, the patio remains my favorite place to spend hours on a cool autumn night, sharing appetizers and conversation with friends.
Details: 850 S. Ash Ave., Tempe. 480-968-9935, caseymoores.com.
— Eddie Fontanez
Reach the reporter at eddie.fontanez@azcentral.com. Follow @ERFontanez on Instagram.
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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How far do teams travel?
The trucks have been packed, shipped east or west and unloaded. Players have assembled from all over the globe.
And the gates are now open for fans to engage in a timeless ritual: Spring training baseball begins Feb. 20.
With workouts for all 30 teams underway and games soon to begin in Florida’s Grapefruit League and Arizona’s Cactus League, Major League Baseball’s preseason is in full swing. All 15 Arizona teams are squeezed into the Phoenix area, but the other half are fanned out in four distinct nooks of Florida.
They’ll be posted there from now until the third week of March, when games wrap up and teams head north (most of them, anyway) for final exhibition games before the regular season begins March 25-27.
Where do MLB teams play for spring training?
As mentioned, it’s split right down the middle − half in Arizona, half in Florida. All teams in the American League and National League West train in Arizona, save for the Houston Astros, who are headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida. All the American League and National League East and Central teams train in Florida except the Ohio-based Cleveland Guardians and Cincinnati Reds, who share a facility in Goodyear, Arizona.
When do players report?
Teams require pitchers and catchers to arrive a few days early; the rest of the team (position players) have to report by Tuesday, Feb. 17.
How far do MLB teams travel to spring training?
The annual arrival of
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How the White Stadium project’s cost compares to other stadiums
The Globe examined soccer stadium projects in Seattle, Denver, and Kansas City, Mo., all of which are being developed or were completed within the last two years. While none is an exact replica of the split-funding plan in Boston, they each are designed to be homes to women’s professional soccer teams or, in Seattle’s case, specifically for high school student-athletes, just as in Boston.
Seattle is pursuing a $150 million publicly funded redevelopment of a 6,500-seat stadium, with help from private donors. In Denver, the Summit FC team is footing the $200 million bill for a new stadium, with the city paying $70 million for land and other costs. Kansas City’s two-year-old women’s soccer venue cost a reported $140 million.
Meanwhile in Boston, costs have jumped more than 60 percent from an initial projection of $200 million.
Wu has attributed the price spike for the 10,000-seat White Stadium to the impact of tariffs on building supplies; inflation that, in a span of just a few years, has significantly driven up prices; and updates suggested by the surrounding community that she said would “make the project better and therefore more expensive.”
Experts said developing and building a huge project can also simply cost more in Boston than in other major metro areas, given many use unionized labor, and that in general, wages here reflect the region’s high cost of living. The permitting process here can also be expensive.
The revamped White Stadium is expected to open in the summer of 2027.
Emma Pettit, a Wu spokesperson, said in a statement that city officials “caution against drawing comparisons with facilities built for different purposes, in different years, and in different markets.”
“Rebuilding White Stadium will be the largest investment in BPS athletics and Franklin Park since the stadium was constructed in 1949,” Pettit said. “We are excited that construction is now underway.”
Under the city’s agreement with Boston Legacy FC, the team will spend at least $190 million on the renovation, while Boston will put in $135 million — which Wu insists will be the limit of the city’s share. The team will also pay more than $62 million over the coming years in rent to the city, and on maintenance for the stadium, improvements to Franklin Park, and other community benefits.
Wu officials have called it a historic and innovative deal: a private team investing a nine-figure sum to help build a valuable public asset, but will remain owned and controlled by BPS. The new facility will also be open to the public 365 days a year, including the 20 days the professional soccer team can host home games, and will be an “economic driver” in the area, Wu’s office said.
Other comparable stadiums — both those still in the works, and one that is completed — don’t come near the total cost of White Stadium.
The Kansas City Current built the 11,500-seat CPKC Stadium for about $117 million in 2024, though that does not include additional infrastructure improvements, according to a Kansas City official. The cost ultimately rose to a reported $140 million, nearly double the original $70 million estimate.
The team did receive $6 million in state tax credits and up to $8 million in reimbursements for utility work, funded by revenue from a port improvement district sales tax.
Like the Boston Legacy, the Current play in the National Women’s Soccer League.
Another NWSL team, the Denver Summit FC, is planning a 14,500-seat stadium on a large lot that once housed a rubber factory, with the team expected to spend $200 million. The facility is forecast to be open in 2028.
While the stadium itself is privately funded, it was contingent on Denver purchasing the land and making improvements for a total of $70 million.
“It’s a historically contaminated site that . . . has been nothing valuable to [my] community but a big divide and blight,” said City Councilor Flor Alvidrez.
The location of the Denver facility is in contrast to that of White Stadium in Franklin Park, considered the crown jewel of Frederick Law Olmsted’s network of public parks known as the Emerald Necklace. The environmental nonprofit the Emerald Necklace Conservancy and a number of Boston residents have sued the city to stop the project, and further called on the city to renovate it without the involvement of a private soccer team.
Seattle is doing just that, with a $150 million effort to renovate Seattle Public Schools’ Memorial Stadium. At 6,500 seats, it will be smaller than Boston’s new White Stadium, but would be funded largely by the city and the school district, with about $30 million coming from private donors.
The Seattle school district originally budgeted $66.5 million to replace the aging stadium, but decided to upgrade the plans, said Fred Podesta, the district’s chief operations officer. The stadium would primarily be used by students, but officials said it could also host concerts or professional sports games, which could also help defray maintenance costs.
“We arrived at a design and a cost that is going to serve everybody’s needs,” Podesta said.
That the cost of White Stadium is far higher than each of those isn’t surprising to some experts.
Development is extremely expensive in Massachusetts compared to other states for a variety of reasons, from the web of building and environmental regulations that developers must follow to the cost of land, said John Ferrante, chief executive of Associated General Contractors of Massachusetts.
The construction industry is also largely unionized, and labor can be one of the biggest line items in a project budget, he said.
“The cost of living here is quite high, and so obviously we’re trying to compensate people so that they can afford to live in the communities that they’re building in,” Ferrante said.
Renovations such as the White Stadium project can also be more expensive than a new build, he added. There’s more uncertainty over what will be uncovered, such as asbestos or unexpected wiring, and there are additional costs that come with preserving any part of the original structure, Ferrante said.
Tariffs and inflation have also caused the price of materials to skyrocket, making it far more expensive to build now than even just one or two years ago, said Robert Koshgarian, head of the sports and entertainment project development team at the national real estate firm JLL.
“It’s massive,” Koshgarian said. “I’ve had contractors tell me that they’re seeing somewhere near [a] 40 percent increase.”
Wu has argued that Boston could not build a new stadium of the caliber she says students deserve for much less than the $135 million the city is spending.
Other stadium projects also carry hefty price tags. In nearby Everett, the Kraft Group is planning to spend an estimated $500 million to build a new stadium for the New England Revolution that could hold up to 24,000 fans.
Still, some critics aren’t sold on Wu’s plan. Andrew Zimbalist, an economics professor at Smith College, said a stadium that’s designed to cater to both a professional team and high school athletes is “a kind of a hybrid that doesn’t exist.”
“The project is bad for high school sports,” he said, “and it’s not good for Boston women’s soccer to have only half of a professional stadium.”
New UFL owner Mike Repole all in on St. Louis, Battlehawks
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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Michael Petro
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Craig Tiley Will Become the CEO of the US Tennis Association After 13 Years at Tennis Australia
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Craig Tiley will take over as the CEO of the U.S. Tennis Association this year, the group that runs the U.S. Open announced Tuesday.
Tiley is leaving his post as the head of Tennis Australia and the tournament director of its Grand Slam tournament, the Australian Open.
The USTA said in a news release that Tiley will start the new job in the coming months.
He replaces Lew Sherr, who left the USTA last year to join the New York Mets as their president of business operations. Sher had been the USTA’s CEO since 2022.
Tiley, who is from South Africa, was the head coach of men’s tennis team at the University of Illinois from 1994 to 2005, including an NCAA championship and 32-0 record in 2003.
He was the Australian Open’s tournament director since 2006 and oversaw its expansion to a 15-day event, breaking attendance and revenue records. Tiley became the CEO of Tennis Australia in 2013.
“Craig brings a rare combination of global credibility at the highest level of the sport and a proven commitment to growing the game at the grassroots. That balance is exactly what this moment requires,
Craig Tiley is the new CEO of the US Tennis Association
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Craig Tiley will take over as the CEO of the U.S. Tennis Association this year, the group that runs the U.S. Open announced Tuesday.
Tiley is leaving his post as the head of Tennis Australia and the tournament director of its Grand Slam tournament, the Australian Open.
The USTA said in a news release that Tiley will start the new job in the coming months.
He replaces Lew Sherr, who left the USTA last year to join the New York Mets as their president of business operations. Sher had been the USTA’s CEO since 2022.
Tiley, who is from South Africa, was the head coach of men’s tennis team at the University of Illinois from 1994 to 2005, including an NCAA championship and 32-0 record in 2003.
He was the Australian Open’s tournament director since 2006 and oversaw its expansion to a 15-day event, breaking attendance and revenue records. Tiley became the CEO of Tennis Australia in 2013.
“Craig brings a rare combination of global credibility at the highest level of the sport and a proven commitment to growing the game at the grassroots. That balance is exactly what this moment requires,” said Brian Vahaly, the USTA Board chair and the USTA’s interim co-CEO.
___
Craig Tiley will become the CEO of the US Tennis Association after 13 years at Tennis Australia
ORLANDO, Fla. – Craig Tiley will take over as the CEO of the U.S. Tennis Association this year, the group that runs the U.S. Open announced Tuesday.
Tiley is leaving his post as the head of Tennis Australia and the tournament director of its Grand Slam tournament, the Australian Open.
The USTA said in a news release that Tiley will start the new job in the coming months.
He replaces Lew Sherr, who left the USTA last year to join the New York Mets as their president of business operations. Sher had been the USTA’s CEO since 2022.
Tiley, who is from South Africa, was the head coach of men’s tennis team at the University of Illinois from 1994 to 2005, including an NCAA championship and 32-0 record in 2003.
He was the Australian Open’s tournament director since 2006 and oversaw its expansion to a 15-day event, breaking attendance and revenue records. Tiley became the CEO of Tennis Australia in 2013.
“Craig brings a rare combination of global credibility at the highest level of the sport and a proven commitment to growing the game at the grassroots. That balance is exactly what this moment requires,
Craig Tiley leaving Tennis Australia to become CEO of USTA
ORLANDO, Fla. — Craig Tiley will take over as the CEO of the U.S. Tennis Association this year, the group that runs the U.S. Open announced Tuesday.
Tiley is leaving his post as the head of Tennis Australia and the tournament director of its Grand Slam tournament, the Australian Open.
The USTA said in a news release that Tiley will start the new job in the coming months.
He replaces Lew Sherr, who left the USTA last year to join the New York Mets as their president of business operations. Sher had been the USTA’s CEO since 2022.
Tiley, who is from South Africa, was the head coach of men’s tennis team at the University of Illinois from 1994 to 2005, including an NCAA championship and 32-0 record in 2003.
He was the Australian Open’s tournament director since 2006 and oversaw its expansion to a 15-day event, breaking attendance and revenue records. Tiley became the CEO of Tennis Australia in 2013.
Dallas ISD tennis standout shaped by a family legacy he never saw firsthand
Everything for Malcolm Moore comes back to composure, focus, growth and family – from the roots of his lineage to the future he’s building. The 17‑year‑old is a bi‑institutional student in the Dallas Independent School District.
Craig Tiley Will Become the CEO of the US Tennis Association After 13 Years at Tennis Australia
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Craig Tiley will take over as the CEO of the U.S. Tennis Association this year, the group that runs the U.S. Open announced Tuesday.
Tiley is leaving his post as the head of Tennis Australia and the tournament director of its Grand Slam tournament, the Australian Open.
The USTA said in a news release that Tiley will start the new job in the coming months.
He replaces Lew Sherr, who left the USTA last year to join the New York Mets as their president of business operations. Sher had been the USTA’s CEO since 2022.
Tiley, who is from South Africa, was the head coach of men’s tennis team at the University of Illinois from 1994 to 2005, including an NCAA championship and 32-0 record in 2003.
He was the Australian Open’s tournament director since 2006 and oversaw its expansion to a 15-day event, breaking attendance and revenue records. Tiley became the CEO of Tennis Australia in 2013.
“Craig brings a rare combination of global credibility at the highest level of the sport and a proven commitment to growing the game at the grassroots. That balance is exactly what this moment requires,
Craig Tiley is the new CEO of the US Tennis Association
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Craig Tiley will take over as the CEO of the U.S. Tennis Association this year, the group that runs the U.S. Open announced Tuesday.
Tiley is leaving his post as the head of Tennis Australia and the tournament director of its Grand Slam tournament, the Australian Open.
The USTA said in a news release that Tiley will start the new job in the coming months.
He replaces Lew Sherr, who left the USTA last year to join the New York Mets as their president of business operations. Sher had been the USTA’s CEO since 2022.
Tiley, who is from South Africa, was the head coach of men’s tennis team at the University of Illinois from 1994 to 2005, including an NCAA championship and 32-0 record in 2003.
He was the Australian Open’s tournament director since 2006 and oversaw its expansion to a 15-day event, breaking attendance and revenue records. Tiley became the CEO of Tennis Australia in 2013.
“Craig brings a rare combination of global credibility at the highest level of the sport and a proven commitment to growing the game at the grassroots. That balance is exactly what this moment requires,” said Brian Vahaly, the USTA Board chair and the USTA’s interim co-CEO.
___
Craig Tiley will become the CEO of the US Tennis Association after 13 years at Tennis Australia
ORLANDO, Fla. – Craig Tiley will take over as the CEO of the U.S. Tennis Association this year, the group that runs the U.S. Open announced Tuesday.
Tiley is leaving his post as the head of Tennis Australia and the tournament director of its Grand Slam tournament, the Australian Open.
The USTA said in a news release that Tiley will start the new job in the coming months.
He replaces Lew Sherr, who left the USTA last year to join the New York Mets as their president of business operations. Sher had been the USTA’s CEO since 2022.
Tiley, who is from South Africa, was the head coach of men’s tennis team at the University of Illinois from 1994 to 2005, including an NCAA championship and 32-0 record in 2003.
He was the Australian Open’s tournament director since 2006 and oversaw its expansion to a 15-day event, breaking attendance and revenue records. Tiley became the CEO of Tennis Australia in 2013.
“Craig brings a rare combination of global credibility at the highest level of the sport and a proven commitment to growing the game at the grassroots. That balance is exactly what this moment requires,
Craig Tiley leaving Tennis Australia to become CEO of USTA
ORLANDO, Fla. — Craig Tiley will take over as the CEO of the U.S. Tennis Association this year, the group that runs the U.S. Open announced Tuesday.
Tiley is leaving his post as the head of Tennis Australia and the tournament director of its Grand Slam tournament, the Australian Open.
The USTA said in a news release that Tiley will start the new job in the coming months.
He replaces Lew Sherr, who left the USTA last year to join the New York Mets as their president of business operations. Sher had been the USTA’s CEO since 2022.
Tiley, who is from South Africa, was the head coach of men’s tennis team at the University of Illinois from 1994 to 2005, including an NCAA championship and 32-0 record in 2003.
He was the Australian Open’s tournament director since 2006 and oversaw its expansion to a 15-day event, breaking attendance and revenue records. Tiley became the CEO of Tennis Australia in 2013.
Dallas ISD tennis standout shaped by a family legacy he never saw firsthand
Everything for Malcolm Moore comes back to composure, focus, growth and family – from the roots of his lineage to the future he’s building. The 17‑year‑old is a bi‑institutional student in the Dallas Independent School District.
Craig Tiley Will Become the CEO of the US Tennis Association After 13 Years at Tennis Australia
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Craig Tiley will take over as the CEO of the U.S. Tennis Association this year, the group that runs the U.S. Open announced Tuesday.
Tiley is leaving his post as the head of Tennis Australia and the tournament director of its Grand Slam tournament, the Australian Open.
The USTA said in a news release that Tiley will start the new job in the coming months.
He replaces Lew Sherr, who left the USTA last year to join the New York Mets as their president of business operations. Sher had been the USTA’s CEO since 2022.
Tiley, who is from South Africa, was the head coach of men’s tennis team at the University of Illinois from 1994 to 2005, including an NCAA championship and 32-0 record in 2003.
He was the Australian Open’s tournament director since 2006 and oversaw its expansion to a 15-day event, breaking attendance and revenue records. Tiley became the CEO of Tennis Australia in 2013.
“Craig brings a rare combination of global credibility at the highest level of the sport and a proven commitment to growing the game at the grassroots. That balance is exactly what this moment requires,
Craig Tiley is the new CEO of the US Tennis Association
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Craig Tiley will take over as the CEO of the U.S. Tennis Association this year, the group that runs the U.S. Open announced Tuesday.
Tiley is leaving his post as the head of Tennis Australia and the tournament director of its Grand Slam tournament, the Australian Open.
The USTA said in a news release that Tiley will start the new job in the coming months.
He replaces Lew Sherr, who left the USTA last year to join the New York Mets as their president of business operations. Sher had been the USTA’s CEO since 2022.
Tiley, who is from South Africa, was the head coach of men’s tennis team at the University of Illinois from 1994 to 2005, including an NCAA championship and 32-0 record in 2003.
He was the Australian Open’s tournament director since 2006 and oversaw its expansion to a 15-day event, breaking attendance and revenue records. Tiley became the CEO of Tennis Australia in 2013.
“Craig brings a rare combination of global credibility at the highest level of the sport and a proven commitment to growing the game at the grassroots. That balance is exactly what this moment requires,” said Brian Vahaly, the USTA Board chair and the USTA’s interim co-CEO.
___
Craig Tiley will become the CEO of the US Tennis Association after 13 years at Tennis Australia
ORLANDO, Fla. – Craig Tiley will take over as the CEO of the U.S. Tennis Association this year, the group that runs the U.S. Open announced Tuesday.
Tiley is leaving his post as the head of Tennis Australia and the tournament director of its Grand Slam tournament, the Australian Open.
The USTA said in a news release that Tiley will start the new job in the coming months.
He replaces Lew Sherr, who left the USTA last year to join the New York Mets as their president of business operations. Sher had been the USTA’s CEO since 2022.
Tiley, who is from South Africa, was the head coach of men’s tennis team at the University of Illinois from 1994 to 2005, including an NCAA championship and 32-0 record in 2003.
He was the Australian Open’s tournament director since 2006 and oversaw its expansion to a 15-day event, breaking attendance and revenue records. Tiley became the CEO of Tennis Australia in 2013.
“Craig brings a rare combination of global credibility at the highest level of the sport and a proven commitment to growing the game at the grassroots. That balance is exactly what this moment requires,
Craig Tiley leaving Tennis Australia to become CEO of USTA
ORLANDO, Fla. — Craig Tiley will take over as the CEO of the U.S. Tennis Association this year, the group that runs the U.S. Open announced Tuesday.
Tiley is leaving his post as the head of Tennis Australia and the tournament director of its Grand Slam tournament, the Australian Open.
The USTA said in a news release that Tiley will start the new job in the coming months.
He replaces Lew Sherr, who left the USTA last year to join the New York Mets as their president of business operations. Sher had been the USTA’s CEO since 2022.
Tiley, who is from South Africa, was the head coach of men’s tennis team at the University of Illinois from 1994 to 2005, including an NCAA championship and 32-0 record in 2003.
He was the Australian Open’s tournament director since 2006 and oversaw its expansion to a 15-day event, breaking attendance and revenue records. Tiley became the CEO of Tennis Australia in 2013.
Dallas ISD tennis standout shaped by a family legacy he never saw firsthand
Everything for Malcolm Moore comes back to composure, focus, growth and family – from the roots of his lineage to the future he’s building. The 17‑year‑old is a bi‑institutional student in the Dallas Independent School District.
Cognizant Classic prop bet picks and PGA Tour predictions
The Florida Swing kicks off this week with the 2026 Cognizant Classic at PGA National in the Palm Beaches. The first round begins on Thursday morning in West Palm Beach, Florida, as players take on the daunting Bear Trap on the Champion Course. Below, we search for the best value prop bets for the Cognizant Classic from BetMGM Sportsbook’s odds and make our PGA Tour picks and predictions.
It’s a weaker field this week after 2 consecutive signature events, especially after Ben Griffin, Jacob Bridgeman and Adam Scott all withdrew Monday. The top players are resting up following the Genesis Invitational and getting ready for the big, upcoming tournaments on the schedule, like the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players Championship. Ryan Gerard and Shane Lowry are co-favorites here at +1600.
The Champion Course at PGA National is 7,223 yards long and is a par 71, featuring water hazards on 15 of the 18 holes. It’s a stark contrast to Riviera Country Club last week, where there were no water hazards anywhere on the Los Angeles property. Joe Highsmith (+20000) is the defending champion after winning last year at 19-under par, setting a tournament record with a score of 265.
Watch the PGA Tour on Fubo!
Cognizant Classic – Top-5 picks
Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 3 p.m. ET.
Ryan Gerard (+320)
Gerard has gotten off to a great start this season, finishing second twice already in 2026. His best finish in this event was fourth in 2023, and he also came in 25th last year. In a weaker field, he’s a decent bet to finish top 5.
Shane Lowry (+320)
Lowry has 3 top-5 finishes in the last 4 years alone, showing he knows how to take apart PGA National and all of the trouble that lurks. He’s come in eighth and 24th in his 2 starts so far this season, entering the week in good form.
Cognizant Classic – Top-10 picks
Nicolai Hojgaard (+200)
Hojgaard came in 18th last year and has gotten off to a strong start in 2026, ranking seventh in SG: tee-to-green. In his last start at the WM Phoenix Open, he tied for third at 15-under par.
Davis Thompson (+350)
Thompson has been abysmal on the greens this season, ranking 162nd in SG: putting. His ball-striking has been quite good, though, sitting 14th among players in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months.
Will Zalatoris (+350)
Zalatoris is No. 1 in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months, according to Data Golf, showing how well he’s struck the ball compared to everyone else playing this week. Once again, his putter is failing him, but maybe Bermudagrass will be the change he needs.
Cognizant Classic: Best outright winner bets
Cognizant Classic – Top-20 picks
Beau Hossler (+350)
In the last month, Hossler is seventh in strokes gained from tee-to-green in this week’s field. His course history is good, too, finishing between 16th and 32nd in his last 3 starts at the Cognizant.
Nico Echavarria (+230)
Echavarria has missed the cut twice and finished 21st once in 3 starts here, so it’s been an up-and-down showing at PGA National. But he’s a good player in windy conditions, so if the wind picks up, he’s someone to watch.
Cognizant Classic – Matchups
Suggested play is golfer in bold.
Davis Thompson (-105) vs. Max McGreevy (-118)
Thompson shouldn’t be an underdog to McGreevy in this matchup, even with his poor course history. He’s been hitting the ball great and should get the putter going on Bermuda greens.
Cognizant Classic – Top Brit and Irish
Shane Lowry (+188)
It’s not a terribly strong field to begin with, and the group of British and Irish players are particularly weak. Aaron Rai (+450) is a threat to Lowry in this market after his solid showing at the Genesis, but Lowry still has better course history and is off to an impressive start to the PGA Tour season.
Cognizant Classic – First-round leader
Daniel Berger (+4000)
Berger fired an opening-round 63 last year to sit tied for second and also opened with a 65 in 2022, a shot behind Kurt Kitayama as the first-round leader.
For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.
Golfweek:
Genesis Invitational prize money payouts for PGA Tour golfers at Riviera
Winner’s Bag: Jacob Bridgeman, 2026 Genesis Invitational
Cognizant Classic prop bet picks and PGA Tour predictions
The Florida Swing kicks off this week with the 2026 Cognizant Classic at PGA National in the Palm Beaches. The first round begins on Thursday morning in West Palm Beach, Florida, as players take on the daunting Bear Trap on the Champion Course. Below, we search for the best value prop bets for the Cognizant Classic from BetMGM Sportsbook’s odds and make our PGA Tour picks and predictions.
It’s a weaker field this week after 2 consecutive signature events, especially after Ben Griffin, Jacob Bridgeman and Adam Scott all withdrew Monday. The top players are resting up following the Genesis Invitational and getting ready for the big, upcoming tournaments on the schedule, like the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players Championship. Ryan Gerard and Shane Lowry are co-favorites here at +1600.
The Champion Course at PGA National is 7,223 yards long and is a par 71, featuring water hazards on 15 of the 18 holes. It’s a stark contrast to Riviera Country Club last week, where there were no water hazards anywhere on the Los Angeles property. Joe Highsmith (+20000) is the defending champion after winning last year at 19-under par, setting a tournament record with a score of 265.
Watch the PGA Tour on Fubo!
Cognizant Classic – Top-5 picks
Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 3 p.m. ET.
Ryan Gerard (+320)
Gerard has gotten off to a great start this season, finishing second twice already in 2026. His best finish in this event was fourth in 2023, and he also came in 25th last year. In a weaker field, he’s a decent bet to finish top 5.
Shane Lowry (+320)
Lowry has 3 top-5 finishes in the last 4 years alone, showing he knows how to take apart PGA National and all of the trouble that lurks. He’s come in eighth and 24th in his 2 starts so far this season, entering the week in good form.
Cognizant Classic – Top-10 picks
Nicolai Hojgaard (+200)
Hojgaard came in 18th last year and has gotten off to a strong start in 2026, ranking seventh in SG: tee-to-green. In his last start at the WM Phoenix Open, he tied for third at 15-under par.
Davis Thompson (+350)
Thompson has been abysmal on the greens this season, ranking 162nd in SG: putting. His ball-striking has been quite good, though, sitting 14th among players in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months.
Will Zalatoris (+350)
Zalatoris is No. 1 in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months, according to Data Golf, showing how well he’s struck the ball compared to everyone else playing this week. Once again, his putter is failing him, but maybe Bermudagrass will be the change he needs.
Cognizant Classic: Best outright winner bets
Cognizant Classic – Top-20 picks
Beau Hossler (+350)
In the last month, Hossler is seventh in strokes gained from tee-to-green in this week’s field. His course history is good, too, finishing between 16th and 32nd in his last 3 starts at the Cognizant.
Nico Echavarria (+230)
Echavarria has missed the cut twice and finished 21st once in 3 starts here, so it’s been an up-and-down showing at PGA National. But he’s a good player in windy conditions, so if the wind picks up, he’s someone to watch.
Cognizant Classic – Matchups
Suggested play is golfer in bold.
Davis Thompson (-105) vs. Max McGreevy (-118)
Thompson shouldn’t be an underdog to McGreevy in this matchup, even with his poor course history. He’s been hitting the ball great and should get the putter going on Bermuda greens.
Cognizant Classic – Top Brit and Irish
Shane Lowry (+188)
It’s not a terribly strong field to begin with, and the group of British and Irish players are particularly weak. Aaron Rai (+450) is a threat to Lowry in this market after his solid showing at the Genesis, but Lowry still has better course history and is off to an impressive start to the PGA Tour season.
Cognizant Classic – First-round leader
Daniel Berger (+4000)
Berger fired an opening-round 63 last year to sit tied for second and also opened with a 65 in 2022, a shot behind Kurt Kitayama as the first-round leader.
For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.
Golfweek:
Genesis Invitational prize money payouts for PGA Tour golfers at Riviera
Winner’s Bag: Jacob Bridgeman, 2026 Genesis Invitational
Cognizant Classic prop bet picks and PGA Tour predictions
The Florida Swing kicks off this week with the 2026 Cognizant Classic at PGA National in the Palm Beaches. The first round begins on Thursday morning in West Palm Beach, Florida, as players take on the daunting Bear Trap on the Champion Course. Below, we search for the best value prop bets for the Cognizant Classic from BetMGM Sportsbook’s odds and make our PGA Tour picks and predictions.
It’s a weaker field this week after 2 consecutive signature events, especially after Ben Griffin, Jacob Bridgeman and Adam Scott all withdrew Monday. The top players are resting up following the Genesis Invitational and getting ready for the big, upcoming tournaments on the schedule, like the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players Championship. Ryan Gerard and Shane Lowry are co-favorites here at +1600.
The Champion Course at PGA National is 7,223 yards long and is a par 71, featuring water hazards on 15 of the 18 holes. It’s a stark contrast to Riviera Country Club last week, where there were no water hazards anywhere on the Los Angeles property. Joe Highsmith (+20000) is the defending champion after winning last year at 19-under par, setting a tournament record with a score of 265.
Watch the PGA Tour on Fubo!
Cognizant Classic – Top-5 picks
Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 3 p.m. ET.
Ryan Gerard (+320)
Gerard has gotten off to a great start this season, finishing second twice already in 2026. His best finish in this event was fourth in 2023, and he also came in 25th last year. In a weaker field, he’s a decent bet to finish top 5.
Shane Lowry (+320)
Lowry has 3 top-5 finishes in the last 4 years alone, showing he knows how to take apart PGA National and all of the trouble that lurks. He’s come in eighth and 24th in his 2 starts so far this season, entering the week in good form.
Cognizant Classic – Top-10 picks
Nicolai Hojgaard (+200)
Hojgaard came in 18th last year and has gotten off to a strong start in 2026, ranking seventh in SG: tee-to-green. In his last start at the WM Phoenix Open, he tied for third at 15-under par.
Davis Thompson (+350)
Thompson has been abysmal on the greens this season, ranking 162nd in SG: putting. His ball-striking has been quite good, though, sitting 14th among players in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months.
Will Zalatoris (+350)
Zalatoris is No. 1 in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months, according to Data Golf, showing how well he’s struck the ball compared to everyone else playing this week. Once again, his putter is failing him, but maybe Bermudagrass will be the change he needs.
Cognizant Classic: Best outright winner bets
Cognizant Classic – Top-20 picks
Beau Hossler (+350)
In the last month, Hossler is seventh in strokes gained from tee-to-green in this week’s field. His course history is good, too, finishing between 16th and 32nd in his last 3 starts at the Cognizant.
Nico Echavarria (+230)
Echavarria has missed the cut twice and finished 21st once in 3 starts here, so it’s been an up-and-down showing at PGA National. But he’s a good player in windy conditions, so if the wind picks up, he’s someone to watch.
Cognizant Classic – Matchups
Suggested play is golfer in bold.
Davis Thompson (-105) vs. Max McGreevy (-118)
Thompson shouldn’t be an underdog to McGreevy in this matchup, even with his poor course history. He’s been hitting the ball great and should get the putter going on Bermuda greens.
Cognizant Classic – Top Brit and Irish
Shane Lowry (+188)
It’s not a terribly strong field to begin with, and the group of British and Irish players are particularly weak. Aaron Rai (+450) is a threat to Lowry in this market after his solid showing at the Genesis, but Lowry still has better course history and is off to an impressive start to the PGA Tour season.
Cognizant Classic – First-round leader
Daniel Berger (+4000)
Berger fired an opening-round 63 last year to sit tied for second and also opened with a 65 in 2022, a shot behind Kurt Kitayama as the first-round leader.
For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.
Golfweek:
Genesis Invitational prize money payouts for PGA Tour golfers at Riviera
Winner’s Bag: Jacob Bridgeman, 2026 Genesis Invitational
Cognizant Classic prop bet picks and PGA Tour predictions
The Florida Swing kicks off this week with the 2026 Cognizant Classic at PGA National in the Palm Beaches. The first round begins on Thursday morning in West Palm Beach, Florida, as players take on the daunting Bear Trap on the Champion Course. Below, we search for the best value prop bets for the Cognizant Classic from BetMGM Sportsbook’s odds and make our PGA Tour picks and predictions.
It’s a weaker field this week after 2 consecutive signature events, especially after Ben Griffin, Jacob Bridgeman and Adam Scott all withdrew Monday. The top players are resting up following the Genesis Invitational and getting ready for the big, upcoming tournaments on the schedule, like the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players Championship. Ryan Gerard and Shane Lowry are co-favorites here at +1600.
The Champion Course at PGA National is 7,223 yards long and is a par 71, featuring water hazards on 15 of the 18 holes. It’s a stark contrast to Riviera Country Club last week, where there were no water hazards anywhere on the Los Angeles property. Joe Highsmith (+20000) is the defending champion after winning last year at 19-under par, setting a tournament record with a score of 265.
Watch the PGA Tour on Fubo!
Cognizant Classic – Top-5 picks
Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 3 p.m. ET.
Ryan Gerard (+320)
Gerard has gotten off to a great start this season, finishing second twice already in 2026. His best finish in this event was fourth in 2023, and he also came in 25th last year. In a weaker field, he’s a decent bet to finish top 5.
Shane Lowry (+320)
Lowry has 3 top-5 finishes in the last 4 years alone, showing he knows how to take apart PGA National and all of the trouble that lurks. He’s come in eighth and 24th in his 2 starts so far this season, entering the week in good form.
Cognizant Classic – Top-10 picks
Nicolai Hojgaard (+200)
Hojgaard came in 18th last year and has gotten off to a strong start in 2026, ranking seventh in SG: tee-to-green. In his last start at the WM Phoenix Open, he tied for third at 15-under par.
Davis Thompson (+350)
Thompson has been abysmal on the greens this season, ranking 162nd in SG: putting. His ball-striking has been quite good, though, sitting 14th among players in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months.
Will Zalatoris (+350)
Zalatoris is No. 1 in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months, according to Data Golf, showing how well he’s struck the ball compared to everyone else playing this week. Once again, his putter is failing him, but maybe Bermudagrass will be the change he needs.
Cognizant Classic: Best outright winner bets
Cognizant Classic – Top-20 picks
Beau Hossler (+350)
In the last month, Hossler is seventh in strokes gained from tee-to-green in this week’s field. His course history is good, too, finishing between 16th and 32nd in his last 3 starts at the Cognizant.
Nico Echavarria (+230)
Echavarria has missed the cut twice and finished 21st once in 3 starts here, so it’s been an up-and-down showing at PGA National. But he’s a good player in windy conditions, so if the wind picks up, he’s someone to watch.
Cognizant Classic – Matchups
Suggested play is golfer in bold.
Davis Thompson (-105) vs. Max McGreevy (-118)
Thompson shouldn’t be an underdog to McGreevy in this matchup, even with his poor course history. He’s been hitting the ball great and should get the putter going on Bermuda greens.
Cognizant Classic – Top Brit and Irish
Shane Lowry (+188)
It’s not a terribly strong field to begin with, and the group of British and Irish players are particularly weak. Aaron Rai (+450) is a threat to Lowry in this market after his solid showing at the Genesis, but Lowry still has better course history and is off to an impressive start to the PGA Tour season.
Cognizant Classic – First-round leader
Daniel Berger (+4000)
Berger fired an opening-round 63 last year to sit tied for second and also opened with a 65 in 2022, a shot behind Kurt Kitayama as the first-round leader.
For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.
Golfweek:
Genesis Invitational prize money payouts for PGA Tour golfers at Riviera
Winner’s Bag: Jacob Bridgeman, 2026 Genesis Invitational
Cognizant Classic prop bet picks and PGA Tour predictions
The Florida Swing kicks off this week with the 2026 Cognizant Classic at PGA National in the Palm Beaches. The first round begins on Thursday morning in West Palm Beach, Florida, as players take on the daunting Bear Trap on the Champion Course. Below, we search for the best value prop bets for the Cognizant Classic from BetMGM Sportsbook’s odds and make our PGA Tour picks and predictions.
It’s a weaker field this week after 2 consecutive signature events, especially after Ben Griffin, Jacob Bridgeman and Adam Scott all withdrew Monday. The top players are resting up following the Genesis Invitational and getting ready for the big, upcoming tournaments on the schedule, like the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players Championship. Ryan Gerard and Shane Lowry are co-favorites here at +1600.
The Champion Course at PGA National is 7,223 yards long and is a par 71, featuring water hazards on 15 of the 18 holes. It’s a stark contrast to Riviera Country Club last week, where there were no water hazards anywhere on the Los Angeles property. Joe Highsmith (+20000) is the defending champion after winning last year at 19-under par, setting a tournament record with a score of 265.
Watch the PGA Tour on Fubo!
Cognizant Classic – Top-5 picks
Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 3 p.m. ET.
Ryan Gerard (+320)
Gerard has gotten off to a great start this season, finishing second twice already in 2026. His best finish in this event was fourth in 2023, and he also came in 25th last year. In a weaker field, he’s a decent bet to finish top 5.
Cognizant Classic: Best prop bets
Shane Lowry (+320)
Lowry has 3 top-5 finishes in the last 4 years alone, showing he knows how to take apart PGA National and all of the trouble that lurks. He’s come in eighth and 24th in his 2 starts so far this season, entering the week in good form.
Cognizant Classic – Top-10 picks
Nicolai Hojgaard (+200)
Hojgaard came in 18th last year and has gotten off to a strong start in 2026, ranking seventh in SG: tee-to-green. In his last start at the WM Phoenix Open, he tied for third at 15-under par.
Davis Thompson (+350)
Thompson has been abysmal on the greens this season, ranking 162nd in SG: putting. His ball-striking has been quite good, though, sitting 14th among players in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months.
Will Zalatoris (+350)
Zalatoris is No. 1 in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months, according to Data Golf, showing how well he’s struck the ball compared to everyone else playing this week. Once again, his putter is failing him, but maybe Bermudagrass will be the change he needs.
Cognizant Classic – Top-20 picks
Beau Hossler (+350)
In the last month, Hossler is seventh in strokes gained from tee-to-green in this week’s field. His course history is good, too, finishing between 16th and 32nd in his last 3 starts at the Cognizant.
Nico Echavarria (+230)
Echavarria has missed the cut twice and finished 21st once in 3 starts here, so it’s been an up-and-down showing at PGA National. But he’s a good player in windy conditions, so if the wind picks up, he’s someone to watch.
Cognizant Classic – Matchups
Suggested play is golfer in bold.
Davis Thompson (-105) vs. Max McGreevy (-118)
Thompson shouldn’t be an underdog to McGreevy in this matchup, even with his poor course history. He’s been hitting the ball great and should get the putter going on Bermuda greens.
Cognizant Classic – Top Brit and Irish
Shane Lowry (+188)
It’s not a terribly strong field to begin with, and the group of British and Irish players are particularly weak. Aaron Rai (+450) is a threat to Lowry in this market after his solid showing at the Genesis, but Lowry still has better course history and is off to an impressive start to the PGA Tour season.
Cognizant Classic – First-round leader
Daniel Berger (+4000)
Berger fired an opening-round 63 last year to sit tied for second and also opened with a 65 in 2022, a shot behind Kurt Kitayama as the first-round leader.
For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.
Golfweek:
Genesis Invitational prize money payouts for PGA Tour golfers at Riviera
Winner’s Bag: Jacob Bridgeman, 2026 Genesis Invitational
Cognizant Classic prop bet picks and PGA Tour predictions
The Florida Swing kicks off this week with the 2026 Cognizant Classic at PGA National in the Palm Beaches. The first round begins on Thursday morning in West Palm Beach, Florida, as players take on the daunting Bear Trap on the Champion Course. Below, we search for the best value prop bets for the Cognizant Classic from BetMGM Sportsbook’s odds and make our PGA Tour picks and predictions.
It’s a weaker field this week after 2 consecutive signature events, especially after Ben Griffin, Jacob Bridgeman and Adam Scott all withdrew Monday. The top players are resting up following the Genesis Invitational and getting ready for the big, upcoming tournaments on the schedule, like the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players Championship. Ryan Gerard and Shane Lowry are co-favorites here at +1600.
The Champion Course at PGA National is 7,223 yards long and is a par 71, featuring water hazards on 15 of the 18 holes. It’s a stark contrast to Riviera Country Club last week, where there were no water hazards anywhere on the Los Angeles property. Joe Highsmith (+20000) is the defending champion after winning last year at 19-under par, setting a tournament record with a score of 265.
Watch the PGA Tour on Fubo!
Cognizant Classic – Top-5 picks
Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 3 p.m. ET.
Ryan Gerard (+320)
Gerard has gotten off to a great start this season, finishing second twice already in 2026. His best finish in this event was fourth in 2023, and he also came in 25th last year. In a weaker field, he’s a decent bet to finish top 5.
Cognizant Classic: Best prop bets
Shane Lowry (+320)
Lowry has 3 top-5 finishes in the last 4 years alone, showing he knows how to take apart PGA National and all of the trouble that lurks. He’s come in eighth and 24th in his 2 starts so far this season, entering the week in good form.
Cognizant Classic – Top-10 picks
Nicolai Hojgaard (+200)
Hojgaard came in 18th last year and has gotten off to a strong start in 2026, ranking seventh in SG: tee-to-green. In his last start at the WM Phoenix Open, he tied for third at 15-under par.
Davis Thompson (+350)
Thompson has been abysmal on the greens this season, ranking 162nd in SG: putting. His ball-striking has been quite good, though, sitting 14th among players in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months.
Will Zalatoris (+350)
Zalatoris is No. 1 in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months, according to Data Golf, showing how well he’s struck the ball compared to everyone else playing this week. Once again, his putter is failing him, but maybe Bermudagrass will be the change he needs.
Cognizant Classic – Top-20 picks
Beau Hossler (+350)
In the last month, Hossler is seventh in strokes gained from tee-to-green in this week’s field. His course history is good, too, finishing between 16th and 32nd in his last 3 starts at the Cognizant.
Nico Echavarria (+230)
Echavarria has missed the cut twice and finished 21st once in 3 starts here, so it’s been an up-and-down showing at PGA National. But he’s a good player in windy conditions, so if the wind picks up, he’s someone to watch.
Cognizant Classic – Matchups
Suggested play is golfer in bold.
Davis Thompson (-105) vs. Max McGreevy (-118)
Thompson shouldn’t be an underdog to McGreevy in this matchup, even with his poor course history. He’s been hitting the ball great and should get the putter going on Bermuda greens.
Cognizant Classic – Top Brit and Irish
Shane Lowry (+188)
It’s not a terribly strong field to begin with, and the group of British and Irish players are particularly weak. Aaron Rai (+450) is a threat to Lowry in this market after his solid showing at the Genesis, but Lowry still has better course history and is off to an impressive start to the PGA Tour season.
Cognizant Classic – First-round leader
Daniel Berger (+4000)
Berger fired an opening-round 63 last year to sit tied for second and also opened with a 65 in 2022, a shot behind Kurt Kitayama as the first-round leader.
For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.
Golfweek:
Genesis Invitational prize money payouts for PGA Tour golfers at Riviera
Winner’s Bag: Jacob Bridgeman, 2026 Genesis Invitational
Justin Thomas Reveals Decision on PGA Tour Return
It’s been a long, cold winter for Justin Thomas. But after a lengthy layoff, the two-time major winner will make his return to the PGA Tour.
Thomas announced after a TGL match on Monday that he will make his first PGA Tour start of the season at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. It will be Thomas’s first Tour start since he underwent back surgery in November.
“I’ve missed it,” Thomas said on Monday, via Golf Magic. “It’s been a long time, but it’s good to be back here playing and feel the competitiveness and the juices and get back playing again. I’ve watched these guys on TV for what feels like a really long time. It feels good to be playing with them.”
Constant Pain Led Justin Thomas to Surgery
Monday’s TGL match for Atlanta Drive was Justin Thomas’s first competitive start since undergoing microdiscectomy surgery in November. His last PGA Tour start was at the Procore Championship on Sept. 11, followed by the Ryder Cup on Sept. 26.
“It’s pretty close to normal,” Thomas said, via Golf Digest. “The rehab has been good. I’ve been, I guess, kind of fully cleared or back to normal, whatever that is, for around three-and-a-half-ish weeks. So it’s really just been about getting used to playing more.”
The disc issue caused Thomas “nagging hip pain,” according to multiple outlets. Now, his main goal is to play without any ailments.
“I have to do the little things and stay on top of it, and playing injury-free is my main goal and always has been,” he said. “And it was unfortunate, but it is what it is, and I’m just gonna make the best out of it and do the right things.”
Thomas admitted he is still working his way back from the months-long layoff and was rusty in his TGL return on Monday.
“It was not very good on my end,” Thomas said of his TGL performance, via the PGA Tour website. “I think it took me a little bit to get in a rhythm and kind of get comfortable.”
Recap of 2025 for Justin Thomas
Thomas finished his 2025 PGA Tour campaign with eight top-10 finishes, including second-place finishes at The American Express, the Valspar Championship, and the Truist Championship. His lone win on the season was at the RBC Heritage on April 17.
The 16-time PGA Tour winner is still searching for this first win at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. In four appearances at Bay Hill, Thomas has made the cut but has just one top-20 finish (T12 in 2024).
Arnold Palmer Invitational Info
The Arnold Palmer Invitational is the PGA Tour’s third signature event of the season and tees off on Thursday, March 9. Bay Hill Club has hosted the event since 1979 and is considered one of the most difficult courses on the PGA Tour schedule.
Looming water hazards and a multitude of bunkers make Bay Hill a particularly tough course for even PGA pros to navigate. That makes this event an even more intriguing one for Thomas to make his return at.
“At least everybody else will be struggling with me at Bay Hill,” he said. “So that’ll make me feel a little bit better.”
Tiger Woods Faces Growing Pressure to Accept Team USA Job as PGA Issues Deadline – Report
Tiger Woods is on the clock! The Ryder Cup captaincy is on the table for him, and the question is no longer whether he wants this role; it is whether his body and his schedule will allow him to take it on. Whatever it is, he needs to make a decision soon.
The PGA of America has set a soft deadline before the Masters in April for Woods to confirm whether he wants the Ryder Cup captaincy at Adare Manor, Ireland. Sources told the AP that officials are not framing it as an ultimatum, but that the clock is ticking. Woods has not shut the door on the captaincy, but he is weighing everything before making a decision.
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“I’m trying to figure out what we’re trying to do with our tour,” the 15x major winner said. “That’s been driving me hours upon hours every day, trying to figure out if I can do our team—Team USA and our players and everyone involved in the Ryder Cup—if I can do it justice.”
His workload away from the course is not making that decision any easier. Woods serves as chairman of the Future Competition Committee, which is working through one of the most complex schedule overhauls in PGA Tour history. Woods candidly shared that he spent a lot of hours practicing in his prime, but it doesn’t even compare to what he has done in the boardroom.
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Woods’s hesitation makes more sense when you factor in what his body has been through. Woods ruptured his Achilles tendon in March 2025 and followed that with a seventh back surgery in October 2025 to replace a disc in his lower back. He has not competed professionally in over a year. At 50, recovery is slower, though he told CBS some good news at the Genesis Invitational.
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The 82x Tour winner shared that the Achilles is no longer the issue, but the back remains uncertain. This uncertainty is now shaping two conversations at once: whether he lines up at Augusta in April 2026 and whether he commits to leading Team USA in 2027. Neither of the two is impossible as of now.
When a reporter asked Woods if he is ruling out this year’s Augusta showdown, the golfer simply said, “No.”
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Notably, this is not the first time the captaincy has landed at his door. In July 2024, Woods turned down the role for the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, citing his injury and new Tour responsibilities.
“With my new responsibilities to the Tour and time commitments involved, I felt like I would not be able to commit the time to Team USA,” he said at the time. The PGA of America waited longer than any previous cycle before naming Keegan Bradley as captain.
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While Woods’s individual Ryder Cup playing record, 13 wins, 21 losses, and 3 halves in 8 appearances, is surprisingly modest for a player of his stature, the PGA’s persistence likely stems from his proven leadership, most notably when he captained the American squad to a comeback victory at the 2019 Presidents Cup. He became the first playing captain since Hale Irwin in 1994, and the US had a brilliant comeback on Sunday. They were trailing before the final day of singles matches but won six and tied four of the 12 matches.
An answer before Augusta will tell a lot about what Tiger Woods prioritizes heading into 2027. The captaincy question is only half the story. His playing future at Augusta has drawn just as much outside scrutiny.
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PGA Pro takes an unfiltered take on Tiger Woods’s probable Masters return
While Woods kept everyone guessing with a one-word answer at Riviera, former US Open champion Rich Beem was far more direct on the Sky Sports Golf Podcast. His core argument was simple: showing up at Augusta is very different from being ready for it.
Beem pointed out that almost every shot at Augusta National is played from an uneven lie, whether it is a second shot, a pitch, or even a putt. That kind of muscle memory cannot be built on a driving range. It needs competitive rounds with a scorecard in hand, and Woods has not played a tournament in over a year.
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Beem did acknowledge that Tiger Woods looked physically strong at the Genesis Invitational, but he was careful to separate appearance from tournament readiness. Augusta’s walking demands across 72 holes are what will ultimately expose any weakness. His legs, not his ball-striking, are the real question mark heading into April.
Beem was not alone in that assessment.
Golf analysts Trey Wingo and Justin Ray echoed similar concerns, with Wingo pointing to Augusta’s terrain as the core issue. His argument was straightforward: for anyone who has not walked the course, the sheer elevation and gradient of Augusta National are difficult to appreciate from the outside, and that physical reality is what makes a cold return there especially risky for Woods.
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Nobody dismissed Woods entirely. Afterall, he has won at Augusta five times and understands the course better than almost anyone but Beem’s concern is whether the body can hold up across four competitive rounds at one of the most physically demanding walks in major championship golf.
Golf Glance: PGA Tour starts Florida swing; Masters spot at stake in South Africa
The PGA Tour tees off its Florida swing with Brooks Koepka in the field in Palm Beach Gardens, the LPGA Tour continues its Asia swing and a coveted spot in the Masters is on the line in South Africa.
PGA TOUR
THIS WEEK: Cognizant Classic, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Feb. 26-March 1
Course: PGA National, Champion Course (Par 71, 7,223 Yards)
Purse: $9.6M (Winner: $1.728M)
Defending Champion: Joe Highsmith
FedEx Cup Leader: Jacob Bridgeman
HOW TO FOLLOW
TV: Thursday-Friday: 2-6 p.m. ET (Golf Channel); Saturday-Sunday: 1-3 p.m. (GC), 3-6 p.m. (NBC)
Streaming (ESPN+): Thursday-Friday: 6:45 a.m.-6 p.m. ET; Saturday-Sunday: 7:45 a.m.-6 p.m.
X: @the_cognizant
NOTES: The PGA Tour begins is four-tournament Florida swing with a field that includes eight of the top 50 players in the Official World Golf Ranking. … The course has been lengthened by about 100 yards from last year, and water is in play on 15 of 18 holes. Hole Nos. 15-17 are known as the
All Things Arnold Palmer: A Week of Celebrating The King at Bay Hill
Look, no disrespect to this week’s PGA Tour stop at PGA National, which I’ll be covering, but I need to be upfront with you: when it comes to Bay Hill Club & Lodge, Arnold Palmer, and the Arnold Palmer Invitational, I’m in that fanatical top 10% of fans. No question about it.
So consider this your official warning, Athlon Sports golf readers: next week (and, honestly, some of this week too) will be all things Bay Hill Club & Lodge, Arnold Palmer, and the API. We’re talking the course, its rich history, tournament history and stats, past champions, The King himself, his enduring legacy, the foundation’s impact, the hospitals bearing his name, and so much more.
Let this article serve as your notice that all things Arnie are on the horizon.
Orlando’s Signature Event Returns
Since 1979, the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard has been a proving ground for the PGA Tour’s biggest names and a can’t-miss event for golf’s most passionate fans. Each spring under the Bay Hill sun, legacies are forged, champions are crowned, and fans from across the globe come together to celebrate something bigger than just golf.
This year’s tournament runs March 2-8, 2026, and if you’ve never experienced it in person, you’re missing out on one of the tour’s most special weeks. There’s something different about Bay Hill. Maybe it’s the ghost of Arnie walking those fairways. Maybe it’s the way the tournament honors his memory while pushing today’s stars to add their names to history. Whatever it is, it works.
Tournament week at Bay Hill isn’t just about four rounds of competitive golf. It’s a celebration that kicks off Monday, March 2 with Arnie’s Army Legacy Pro-Am presented by Chick-fil-A. The shotgun start goes off at 9:00 a.m., followed by a post-event awards celebration at 2:00 p.m.
Tuesday brings the Executive Women’s Breakfast presented by Mastercard, with registration starting at 8:30 a.m. It’s one of those events that showcases how the tournament extends beyond just the competition itself.
Wednesday features the Official Arnold Palmer Invitational Pro-Am, followed by the Tournament Gala & Pro-Am Awards Celebration at 6:30 p.m. Then Thursday through Sunday, it’s game time, with gates opening at 7:30 a.m. for the first two rounds and 8:30 a.m. for the weekend.
Special Experiences You Can’t Miss
One of the coolest events during tournament week is Throwback Thursday, presented by Corkcicle. From the days of the Citrus Classic to today’s Arnold Palmer Invitational, Bay Hill has been welcoming the PGA Tour for nearly 50 years. At this event, fans can travel back through the tournament’s history while today’s biggest stars write a new chapter just steps away.
You’ll find it at the Landing off the 9th fairway, where you can sip complimentary Anheuser-Busch beer, pose with trophies from years past, and score some retro gear available only at this event. It’s the kind of experience that connects you to the tournament’s rich history in a tangible way.
For families, the VyStar Credit Union Junior Clinic is a must. Kids of all ages are invited to watch, learn, and be inspired as a PGA Tour player shares insights and demonstrates techniques. It’s about fostering a lifelong love for the game, something Arnie would have absolutely loved.
Fan Features and Amenities
If you’re planning to attend, here’s what you need to know. Bleachers are available on a first-come, first-served basis at holes 1, 6, 7, 14, 17, 18, and the driving range. The ULTRA Club features covered grandstands at hole 6, and the Technics Sound Deck at hole 7 lets you hear your favorite players tee off, react to their shots, and banter with fellow players and caddies.
Mastercard cardholders get access to the Mastercard Club, an upgraded venue with a fun atmosphere, full bar, augmented reality photo experience featuring Mastercard golf ambassadors, and spectacular views of the driving range, putting green, and 9th hole.
New this year is Arnie’s Army Fan Village on the 9th fairway, featuring a shady area with a big screen to watch the live telecast. And yes, Chick-fil-A will be serving up their iconic chicken sandwich. For foodies, check out Foodies & Fairways presented by Mastercard and Capital One Business near the main entrance off 18.
Families with young children will appreciate the Orlando Health Family Care Suites, which provide air-conditioned spaces stocked with complimentary diapers, changing tables, private nursing areas, phone charging stations, and comfortable seating. The Orlando Health Kids Zone features a putt-putt area and coloring mural wall.
A Special Podcast Guest
On Thursday, Feb. 26, as I reported yesterday, The Quiet Please Golf Podcast, which I’m a proud co-host of, will welcome Sam Saunders, grandson of Mr. Palmer and former Tour player. It’s going to be a special conversation, and I can’t wait to share it with you all.
The Legacy Lives On
What makes the Arnold Palmer Invitational truly special isn’t just the golf. It’s the way Arnold and Winnie Palmer created a blueprint for serving others. Today, driven by the generosity of “Arnie’s Army,” the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation carries on a pioneering tradition of charity, service, and doing right by others.
As Arnold Palmer once said, “When people ask what’s driven me all these years, I always give the same answer. It’s you.”
That quote captures everything about why this tournament matters. It’s about the fans, the community, the game itself, and the values that Arnie embodied throughout his life.
What’s Coming Next Week
Throughout next week, I’ll be diving deep into everything Bay Hill. Expect articles on the course’s unique challenges, tournament history and statistics, profiles of past champions, and stories about The King’s lasting impact. I’ll also share some cool finds for Arnold Palmer fanatics, from unique items on Etsy to official gear from Fanatics.
Whether you’re planning to attend in person, watching on TV, or streaming on your devices, next week is going to be a celebration of one of golf’s greatest ambassadors and one of the tour’s most beloved events.
Get ready. It’s going to be a week dedicated to The King.
Cognizant Classic prop bet picks and PGA Tour predictions
The Florida Swing kicks off this week with the 2026 Cognizant Classic at PGA National in the Palm Beaches. The first round begins on Thursday morning in West Palm Beach, Florida, as players take on the daunting Bear Trap on the Champion Course. Below, we search for the best value prop bets for the Cognizant Classic from BetMGM Sportsbook’s odds and make our PGA Tour picks and predictions.
It’s a weaker field this week after 2 consecutive signature events, especially after Ben Griffin, Jacob Bridgeman and Adam Scott all withdrew Monday. The top players are resting up following the Genesis Invitational and getting ready for the big, upcoming tournaments on the schedule, like the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players Championship. Ryan Gerard and Shane Lowry are co-favorites here at +1600.
The Champion Course at PGA National is 7,223 yards long and is a par 71, featuring water hazards on 15 of the 18 holes. It’s a stark contrast to Riviera Country Club last week, where there were no water hazards anywhere on the Los Angeles property. Joe Highsmith (+20000) is the defending champion after winning last year at 19-under par, setting a tournament record with a score of 265.
Watch the PGA Tour on Fubo!
Cognizant Classic – Top-5 picks
Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 3 p.m. ET.
Ryan Gerard (+320)
Gerard has gotten off to a great start this season, finishing second twice already in 2026. His best finish in this event was fourth in 2023, and he also came in 25th last year. In a weaker field, he’s a decent bet to finish top 5.
Shane Lowry (+320)
Lowry has 3 top-5 finishes in the last 4 years alone, showing he knows how to take apart PGA National and all of the trouble that lurks. He’s come in eighth and 24th in his 2 starts so far this season, entering the week in good form.
Cognizant Classic – Top-10 picks
Nicolai Hojgaard (+200)
Hojgaard came in 18th last year and has gotten off to a strong start in 2026, ranking seventh in SG: tee-to-green. In his last start at the WM Phoenix Open, he tied for third at 15-under par.
Davis Thompson (+350)
Thompson has been abysmal on the greens this season, ranking 162nd in SG: putting. His ball-striking has been quite good, though, sitting 14th among players in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months.
Will Zalatoris (+350)
Zalatoris is No. 1 in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months, according to Data Golf, showing how well he’s struck the ball compared to everyone else playing this week. Once again, his putter is failing him, but maybe Bermudagrass will be the change he needs.
Cognizant Classic: Best outright winner bets
Cognizant Classic – Top-20 picks
Beau Hossler (+350)
In the last month, Hossler is seventh in strokes gained from tee-to-green in this week’s field. His course history is good, too, finishing between 16th and 32nd in his last 3 starts at the Cognizant.
Nico Echavarria (+230)
Echavarria has missed the cut twice and finished 21st once in 3 starts here, so it’s been an up-and-down showing at PGA National. But he’s a good player in windy conditions, so if the wind picks up, he’s someone to watch.
Cognizant Classic – Matchups
Suggested play is golfer in bold.
Davis Thompson (-105) vs. Max McGreevy (-118)
Thompson shouldn’t be an underdog to McGreevy in this matchup, even with his poor course history. He’s been hitting the ball great and should get the putter going on Bermuda greens.
Cognizant Classic – Top Brit and Irish
Shane Lowry (+188)
It’s not a terribly strong field to begin with, and the group of British and Irish players are particularly weak. Aaron Rai (+450) is a threat to Lowry in this market after his solid showing at the Genesis, but Lowry still has better course history and is off to an impressive start to the PGA Tour season.
Cognizant Classic – First-round leader
Daniel Berger (+4000)
Berger fired an opening-round 63 last year to sit tied for second and also opened with a 65 in 2022, a shot behind Kurt Kitayama as the first-round leader.
For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.
Golfweek:
Genesis Invitational prize money payouts for PGA Tour golfers at Riviera
Winner’s Bag: Jacob Bridgeman, 2026 Genesis Invitational
Cognizant Classic prop bet picks and PGA Tour predictions
The Florida Swing kicks off this week with the 2026 Cognizant Classic at PGA National in the Palm Beaches. The first round begins on Thursday morning in West Palm Beach, Florida, as players take on the daunting Bear Trap on the Champion Course. Below, we search for the best value prop bets for the Cognizant Classic from BetMGM Sportsbook’s odds and make our PGA Tour picks and predictions.
It’s a weaker field this week after 2 consecutive signature events, especially after Ben Griffin, Jacob Bridgeman and Adam Scott all withdrew Monday. The top players are resting up following the Genesis Invitational and getting ready for the big, upcoming tournaments on the schedule, like the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players Championship. Ryan Gerard and Shane Lowry are co-favorites here at +1600.
The Champion Course at PGA National is 7,223 yards long and is a par 71, featuring water hazards on 15 of the 18 holes. It’s a stark contrast to Riviera Country Club last week, where there were no water hazards anywhere on the Los Angeles property. Joe Highsmith (+20000) is the defending champion after winning last year at 19-under par, setting a tournament record with a score of 265.
Watch the PGA Tour on Fubo!
Cognizant Classic – Top-5 picks
Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 3 p.m. ET.
Ryan Gerard (+320)
Gerard has gotten off to a great start this season, finishing second twice already in 2026. His best finish in this event was fourth in 2023, and he also came in 25th last year. In a weaker field, he’s a decent bet to finish top 5.
Shane Lowry (+320)
Lowry has 3 top-5 finishes in the last 4 years alone, showing he knows how to take apart PGA National and all of the trouble that lurks. He’s come in eighth and 24th in his 2 starts so far this season, entering the week in good form.
Cognizant Classic – Top-10 picks
Nicolai Hojgaard (+200)
Hojgaard came in 18th last year and has gotten off to a strong start in 2026, ranking seventh in SG: tee-to-green. In his last start at the WM Phoenix Open, he tied for third at 15-under par.
Davis Thompson (+350)
Thompson has been abysmal on the greens this season, ranking 162nd in SG: putting. His ball-striking has been quite good, though, sitting 14th among players in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months.
Will Zalatoris (+350)
Zalatoris is No. 1 in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months, according to Data Golf, showing how well he’s struck the ball compared to everyone else playing this week. Once again, his putter is failing him, but maybe Bermudagrass will be the change he needs.
Cognizant Classic: Best outright winner bets
Cognizant Classic – Top-20 picks
Beau Hossler (+350)
In the last month, Hossler is seventh in strokes gained from tee-to-green in this week’s field. His course history is good, too, finishing between 16th and 32nd in his last 3 starts at the Cognizant.
Nico Echavarria (+230)
Echavarria has missed the cut twice and finished 21st once in 3 starts here, so it’s been an up-and-down showing at PGA National. But he’s a good player in windy conditions, so if the wind picks up, he’s someone to watch.
Cognizant Classic – Matchups
Suggested play is golfer in bold.
Davis Thompson (-105) vs. Max McGreevy (-118)
Thompson shouldn’t be an underdog to McGreevy in this matchup, even with his poor course history. He’s been hitting the ball great and should get the putter going on Bermuda greens.
Cognizant Classic – Top Brit and Irish
Shane Lowry (+188)
It’s not a terribly strong field to begin with, and the group of British and Irish players are particularly weak. Aaron Rai (+450) is a threat to Lowry in this market after his solid showing at the Genesis, but Lowry still has better course history and is off to an impressive start to the PGA Tour season.
Cognizant Classic – First-round leader
Daniel Berger (+4000)
Berger fired an opening-round 63 last year to sit tied for second and also opened with a 65 in 2022, a shot behind Kurt Kitayama as the first-round leader.
For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.
Golfweek:
Genesis Invitational prize money payouts for PGA Tour golfers at Riviera
Winner’s Bag: Jacob Bridgeman, 2026 Genesis Invitational
Cognizant Classic prop bet picks and PGA Tour predictions
The Florida Swing kicks off this week with the 2026 Cognizant Classic at PGA National in the Palm Beaches. The first round begins on Thursday morning in West Palm Beach, Florida, as players take on the daunting Bear Trap on the Champion Course. Below, we search for the best value prop bets for the Cognizant Classic from BetMGM Sportsbook’s odds and make our PGA Tour picks and predictions.
It’s a weaker field this week after 2 consecutive signature events, especially after Ben Griffin, Jacob Bridgeman and Adam Scott all withdrew Monday. The top players are resting up following the Genesis Invitational and getting ready for the big, upcoming tournaments on the schedule, like the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players Championship. Ryan Gerard and Shane Lowry are co-favorites here at +1600.
The Champion Course at PGA National is 7,223 yards long and is a par 71, featuring water hazards on 15 of the 18 holes. It’s a stark contrast to Riviera Country Club last week, where there were no water hazards anywhere on the Los Angeles property. Joe Highsmith (+20000) is the defending champion after winning last year at 19-under par, setting a tournament record with a score of 265.
Watch the PGA Tour on Fubo!
Cognizant Classic – Top-5 picks
Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 3 p.m. ET.
Ryan Gerard (+320)
Gerard has gotten off to a great start this season, finishing second twice already in 2026. His best finish in this event was fourth in 2023, and he also came in 25th last year. In a weaker field, he’s a decent bet to finish top 5.
Shane Lowry (+320)
Lowry has 3 top-5 finishes in the last 4 years alone, showing he knows how to take apart PGA National and all of the trouble that lurks. He’s come in eighth and 24th in his 2 starts so far this season, entering the week in good form.
Cognizant Classic – Top-10 picks
Nicolai Hojgaard (+200)
Hojgaard came in 18th last year and has gotten off to a strong start in 2026, ranking seventh in SG: tee-to-green. In his last start at the WM Phoenix Open, he tied for third at 15-under par.
Davis Thompson (+350)
Thompson has been abysmal on the greens this season, ranking 162nd in SG: putting. His ball-striking has been quite good, though, sitting 14th among players in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months.
Will Zalatoris (+350)
Zalatoris is No. 1 in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months, according to Data Golf, showing how well he’s struck the ball compared to everyone else playing this week. Once again, his putter is failing him, but maybe Bermudagrass will be the change he needs.
Cognizant Classic: Best outright winner bets
Cognizant Classic – Top-20 picks
Beau Hossler (+350)
In the last month, Hossler is seventh in strokes gained from tee-to-green in this week’s field. His course history is good, too, finishing between 16th and 32nd in his last 3 starts at the Cognizant.
Nico Echavarria (+230)
Echavarria has missed the cut twice and finished 21st once in 3 starts here, so it’s been an up-and-down showing at PGA National. But he’s a good player in windy conditions, so if the wind picks up, he’s someone to watch.
Cognizant Classic – Matchups
Suggested play is golfer in bold.
Davis Thompson (-105) vs. Max McGreevy (-118)
Thompson shouldn’t be an underdog to McGreevy in this matchup, even with his poor course history. He’s been hitting the ball great and should get the putter going on Bermuda greens.
Cognizant Classic – Top Brit and Irish
Shane Lowry (+188)
It’s not a terribly strong field to begin with, and the group of British and Irish players are particularly weak. Aaron Rai (+450) is a threat to Lowry in this market after his solid showing at the Genesis, but Lowry still has better course history and is off to an impressive start to the PGA Tour season.
Cognizant Classic – First-round leader
Daniel Berger (+4000)
Berger fired an opening-round 63 last year to sit tied for second and also opened with a 65 in 2022, a shot behind Kurt Kitayama as the first-round leader.
For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.
Golfweek:
Genesis Invitational prize money payouts for PGA Tour golfers at Riviera
Winner’s Bag: Jacob Bridgeman, 2026 Genesis Invitational
Cognizant Classic prop bet picks and PGA Tour predictions
The Florida Swing kicks off this week with the 2026 Cognizant Classic at PGA National in the Palm Beaches. The first round begins on Thursday morning in West Palm Beach, Florida, as players take on the daunting Bear Trap on the Champion Course. Below, we search for the best value prop bets for the Cognizant Classic from BetMGM Sportsbook’s odds and make our PGA Tour picks and predictions.
It’s a weaker field this week after 2 consecutive signature events, especially after Ben Griffin, Jacob Bridgeman and Adam Scott all withdrew Monday. The top players are resting up following the Genesis Invitational and getting ready for the big, upcoming tournaments on the schedule, like the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players Championship. Ryan Gerard and Shane Lowry are co-favorites here at +1600.
The Champion Course at PGA National is 7,223 yards long and is a par 71, featuring water hazards on 15 of the 18 holes. It’s a stark contrast to Riviera Country Club last week, where there were no water hazards anywhere on the Los Angeles property. Joe Highsmith (+20000) is the defending champion after winning last year at 19-under par, setting a tournament record with a score of 265.
Watch the PGA Tour on Fubo!
Cognizant Classic – Top-5 picks
Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 3 p.m. ET.
Ryan Gerard (+320)
Gerard has gotten off to a great start this season, finishing second twice already in 2026. His best finish in this event was fourth in 2023, and he also came in 25th last year. In a weaker field, he’s a decent bet to finish top 5.
Shane Lowry (+320)
Lowry has 3 top-5 finishes in the last 4 years alone, showing he knows how to take apart PGA National and all of the trouble that lurks. He’s come in eighth and 24th in his 2 starts so far this season, entering the week in good form.
Cognizant Classic – Top-10 picks
Nicolai Hojgaard (+200)
Hojgaard came in 18th last year and has gotten off to a strong start in 2026, ranking seventh in SG: tee-to-green. In his last start at the WM Phoenix Open, he tied for third at 15-under par.
Davis Thompson (+350)
Thompson has been abysmal on the greens this season, ranking 162nd in SG: putting. His ball-striking has been quite good, though, sitting 14th among players in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months.
Will Zalatoris (+350)
Zalatoris is No. 1 in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months, according to Data Golf, showing how well he’s struck the ball compared to everyone else playing this week. Once again, his putter is failing him, but maybe Bermudagrass will be the change he needs.
Cognizant Classic: Best outright winner bets
Cognizant Classic – Top-20 picks
Beau Hossler (+350)
In the last month, Hossler is seventh in strokes gained from tee-to-green in this week’s field. His course history is good, too, finishing between 16th and 32nd in his last 3 starts at the Cognizant.
Nico Echavarria (+230)
Echavarria has missed the cut twice and finished 21st once in 3 starts here, so it’s been an up-and-down showing at PGA National. But he’s a good player in windy conditions, so if the wind picks up, he’s someone to watch.
Cognizant Classic – Matchups
Suggested play is golfer in bold.
Davis Thompson (-105) vs. Max McGreevy (-118)
Thompson shouldn’t be an underdog to McGreevy in this matchup, even with his poor course history. He’s been hitting the ball great and should get the putter going on Bermuda greens.
Cognizant Classic – Top Brit and Irish
Shane Lowry (+188)
It’s not a terribly strong field to begin with, and the group of British and Irish players are particularly weak. Aaron Rai (+450) is a threat to Lowry in this market after his solid showing at the Genesis, but Lowry still has better course history and is off to an impressive start to the PGA Tour season.
Cognizant Classic – First-round leader
Daniel Berger (+4000)
Berger fired an opening-round 63 last year to sit tied for second and also opened with a 65 in 2022, a shot behind Kurt Kitayama as the first-round leader.
For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.
Golfweek:
Genesis Invitational prize money payouts for PGA Tour golfers at Riviera
Winner’s Bag: Jacob Bridgeman, 2026 Genesis Invitational
Cognizant Classic prop bet picks and PGA Tour predictions
The Florida Swing kicks off this week with the 2026 Cognizant Classic at PGA National in the Palm Beaches. The first round begins on Thursday morning in West Palm Beach, Florida, as players take on the daunting Bear Trap on the Champion Course. Below, we search for the best value prop bets for the Cognizant Classic from BetMGM Sportsbook’s odds and make our PGA Tour picks and predictions.
It’s a weaker field this week after 2 consecutive signature events, especially after Ben Griffin, Jacob Bridgeman and Adam Scott all withdrew Monday. The top players are resting up following the Genesis Invitational and getting ready for the big, upcoming tournaments on the schedule, like the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players Championship. Ryan Gerard and Shane Lowry are co-favorites here at +1600.
The Champion Course at PGA National is 7,223 yards long and is a par 71, featuring water hazards on 15 of the 18 holes. It’s a stark contrast to Riviera Country Club last week, where there were no water hazards anywhere on the Los Angeles property. Joe Highsmith (+20000) is the defending champion after winning last year at 19-under par, setting a tournament record with a score of 265.
Watch the PGA Tour on Fubo!
Cognizant Classic – Top-5 picks
Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 3 p.m. ET.
Ryan Gerard (+320)
Gerard has gotten off to a great start this season, finishing second twice already in 2026. His best finish in this event was fourth in 2023, and he also came in 25th last year. In a weaker field, he’s a decent bet to finish top 5.
Cognizant Classic: Best prop bets
Shane Lowry (+320)
Lowry has 3 top-5 finishes in the last 4 years alone, showing he knows how to take apart PGA National and all of the trouble that lurks. He’s come in eighth and 24th in his 2 starts so far this season, entering the week in good form.
Cognizant Classic – Top-10 picks
Nicolai Hojgaard (+200)
Hojgaard came in 18th last year and has gotten off to a strong start in 2026, ranking seventh in SG: tee-to-green. In his last start at the WM Phoenix Open, he tied for third at 15-under par.
Davis Thompson (+350)
Thompson has been abysmal on the greens this season, ranking 162nd in SG: putting. His ball-striking has been quite good, though, sitting 14th among players in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months.
Will Zalatoris (+350)
Zalatoris is No. 1 in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months, according to Data Golf, showing how well he’s struck the ball compared to everyone else playing this week. Once again, his putter is failing him, but maybe Bermudagrass will be the change he needs.
Cognizant Classic – Top-20 picks
Beau Hossler (+350)
In the last month, Hossler is seventh in strokes gained from tee-to-green in this week’s field. His course history is good, too, finishing between 16th and 32nd in his last 3 starts at the Cognizant.
Nico Echavarria (+230)
Echavarria has missed the cut twice and finished 21st once in 3 starts here, so it’s been an up-and-down showing at PGA National. But he’s a good player in windy conditions, so if the wind picks up, he’s someone to watch.
Cognizant Classic – Matchups
Suggested play is golfer in bold.
Davis Thompson (-105) vs. Max McGreevy (-118)
Thompson shouldn’t be an underdog to McGreevy in this matchup, even with his poor course history. He’s been hitting the ball great and should get the putter going on Bermuda greens.
Cognizant Classic – Top Brit and Irish
Shane Lowry (+188)
It’s not a terribly strong field to begin with, and the group of British and Irish players are particularly weak. Aaron Rai (+450) is a threat to Lowry in this market after his solid showing at the Genesis, but Lowry still has better course history and is off to an impressive start to the PGA Tour season.
Cognizant Classic – First-round leader
Daniel Berger (+4000)
Berger fired an opening-round 63 last year to sit tied for second and also opened with a 65 in 2022, a shot behind Kurt Kitayama as the first-round leader.
For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.
Golfweek:
Genesis Invitational prize money payouts for PGA Tour golfers at Riviera
Winner’s Bag: Jacob Bridgeman, 2026 Genesis Invitational
Cognizant Classic prop bet picks and PGA Tour predictions
The Florida Swing kicks off this week with the 2026 Cognizant Classic at PGA National in the Palm Beaches. The first round begins on Thursday morning in West Palm Beach, Florida, as players take on the daunting Bear Trap on the Champion Course. Below, we search for the best value prop bets for the Cognizant Classic from BetMGM Sportsbook’s odds and make our PGA Tour picks and predictions.
It’s a weaker field this week after 2 consecutive signature events, especially after Ben Griffin, Jacob Bridgeman and Adam Scott all withdrew Monday. The top players are resting up following the Genesis Invitational and getting ready for the big, upcoming tournaments on the schedule, like the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players Championship. Ryan Gerard and Shane Lowry are co-favorites here at +1600.
The Champion Course at PGA National is 7,223 yards long and is a par 71, featuring water hazards on 15 of the 18 holes. It’s a stark contrast to Riviera Country Club last week, where there were no water hazards anywhere on the Los Angeles property. Joe Highsmith (+20000) is the defending champion after winning last year at 19-under par, setting a tournament record with a score of 265.
Watch the PGA Tour on Fubo!
Cognizant Classic – Top-5 picks
Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 3 p.m. ET.
Ryan Gerard (+320)
Gerard has gotten off to a great start this season, finishing second twice already in 2026. His best finish in this event was fourth in 2023, and he also came in 25th last year. In a weaker field, he’s a decent bet to finish top 5.
Cognizant Classic: Best prop bets
Shane Lowry (+320)
Lowry has 3 top-5 finishes in the last 4 years alone, showing he knows how to take apart PGA National and all of the trouble that lurks. He’s come in eighth and 24th in his 2 starts so far this season, entering the week in good form.
Cognizant Classic – Top-10 picks
Nicolai Hojgaard (+200)
Hojgaard came in 18th last year and has gotten off to a strong start in 2026, ranking seventh in SG: tee-to-green. In his last start at the WM Phoenix Open, he tied for third at 15-under par.
Davis Thompson (+350)
Thompson has been abysmal on the greens this season, ranking 162nd in SG: putting. His ball-striking has been quite good, though, sitting 14th among players in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months.
Will Zalatoris (+350)
Zalatoris is No. 1 in the field in SG: tee-to-green in the last 3 months, according to Data Golf, showing how well he’s struck the ball compared to everyone else playing this week. Once again, his putter is failing him, but maybe Bermudagrass will be the change he needs.
Cognizant Classic – Top-20 picks
Beau Hossler (+350)
In the last month, Hossler is seventh in strokes gained from tee-to-green in this week’s field. His course history is good, too, finishing between 16th and 32nd in his last 3 starts at the Cognizant.
Nico Echavarria (+230)
Echavarria has missed the cut twice and finished 21st once in 3 starts here, so it’s been an up-and-down showing at PGA National. But he’s a good player in windy conditions, so if the wind picks up, he’s someone to watch.
Cognizant Classic – Matchups
Suggested play is golfer in bold.
Davis Thompson (-105) vs. Max McGreevy (-118)
Thompson shouldn’t be an underdog to McGreevy in this matchup, even with his poor course history. He’s been hitting the ball great and should get the putter going on Bermuda greens.
Cognizant Classic – Top Brit and Irish
Shane Lowry (+188)
It’s not a terribly strong field to begin with, and the group of British and Irish players are particularly weak. Aaron Rai (+450) is a threat to Lowry in this market after his solid showing at the Genesis, but Lowry still has better course history and is off to an impressive start to the PGA Tour season.
Cognizant Classic – First-round leader
Daniel Berger (+4000)
Berger fired an opening-round 63 last year to sit tied for second and also opened with a 65 in 2022, a shot behind Kurt Kitayama as the first-round leader.
For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.
Golfweek:
Genesis Invitational prize money payouts for PGA Tour golfers at Riviera
Winner’s Bag: Jacob Bridgeman, 2026 Genesis Invitational
Justin Thomas Reveals Decision on PGA Tour Return
It’s been a long, cold winter for Justin Thomas. But after a lengthy layoff, the two-time major winner will make his return to the PGA Tour.
Thomas announced after a TGL match on Monday that he will make his first PGA Tour start of the season at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. It will be Thomas’s first Tour start since he underwent back surgery in November.
“I’ve missed it,” Thomas said on Monday, via Golf Magic. “It’s been a long time, but it’s good to be back here playing and feel the competitiveness and the juices and get back playing again. I’ve watched these guys on TV for what feels like a really long time. It feels good to be playing with them.”
Constant Pain Led Justin Thomas to Surgery
Monday’s TGL match for Atlanta Drive was Justin Thomas’s first competitive start since undergoing microdiscectomy surgery in November. His last PGA Tour start was at the Procore Championship on Sept. 11, followed by the Ryder Cup on Sept. 26.
“It’s pretty close to normal,” Thomas said, via Golf Digest. “The rehab has been good. I’ve been, I guess, kind of fully cleared or back to normal, whatever that is, for around three-and-a-half-ish weeks. So it’s really just been about getting used to playing more.”
The disc issue caused Thomas “nagging hip pain,” according to multiple outlets. Now, his main goal is to play without any ailments.
“I have to do the little things and stay on top of it, and playing injury-free is my main goal and always has been,” he said. “And it was unfortunate, but it is what it is, and I’m just gonna make the best out of it and do the right things.”
Thomas admitted he is still working his way back from the months-long layoff and was rusty in his TGL return on Monday.
“It was not very good on my end,” Thomas said of his TGL performance, via the PGA Tour website. “I think it took me a little bit to get in a rhythm and kind of get comfortable.”
Recap of 2025 for Justin Thomas
Thomas finished his 2025 PGA Tour campaign with eight top-10 finishes, including second-place finishes at The American Express, the Valspar Championship, and the Truist Championship. His lone win on the season was at the RBC Heritage on April 17.
The 16-time PGA Tour winner is still searching for this first win at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. In four appearances at Bay Hill, Thomas has made the cut but has just one top-20 finish (T12 in 2024).
Arnold Palmer Invitational Info
The Arnold Palmer Invitational is the PGA Tour’s third signature event of the season and tees off on Thursday, March 9. Bay Hill Club has hosted the event since 1979 and is considered one of the most difficult courses on the PGA Tour schedule.
Looming water hazards and a multitude of bunkers make Bay Hill a particularly tough course for even PGA pros to navigate. That makes this event an even more intriguing one for Thomas to make his return at.
“At least everybody else will be struggling with me at Bay Hill,” he said. “So that’ll make me feel a little bit better.”
Tiger Woods Faces Growing Pressure to Accept Team USA Job as PGA Issues Deadline – Report
Tiger Woods is on the clock! The Ryder Cup captaincy is on the table for him, and the question is no longer whether he wants this role; it is whether his body and his schedule will allow him to take it on. Whatever it is, he needs to make a decision soon.
The PGA of America has set a soft deadline before the Masters in April for Woods to confirm whether he wants the Ryder Cup captaincy at Adare Manor, Ireland. Sources told the AP that officials are not framing it as an ultimatum, but that the clock is ticking. Woods has not shut the door on the captaincy, but he is weighing everything before making a decision.
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“I’m trying to figure out what we’re trying to do with our tour,” the 15x major winner said. “That’s been driving me hours upon hours every day, trying to figure out if I can do our team—Team USA and our players and everyone involved in the Ryder Cup—if I can do it justice.”
His workload away from the course is not making that decision any easier. Woods serves as chairman of the Future Competition Committee, which is working through one of the most complex schedule overhauls in PGA Tour history. Woods candidly shared that he spent a lot of hours practicing in his prime, but it doesn’t even compare to what he has done in the boardroom.
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Woods’s hesitation makes more sense when you factor in what his body has been through. Woods ruptured his Achilles tendon in March 2025 and followed that with a seventh back surgery in October 2025 to replace a disc in his lower back. He has not competed professionally in over a year. At 50, recovery is slower, though he told CBS some good news at the Genesis Invitational.
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The 82x Tour winner shared that the Achilles is no longer the issue, but the back remains uncertain. This uncertainty is now shaping two conversations at once: whether he lines up at Augusta in April 2026 and whether he commits to leading Team USA in 2027. Neither of the two is impossible as of now.
When a reporter asked Woods if he is ruling out this year’s Augusta showdown, the golfer simply said, “No.”
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Notably, this is not the first time the captaincy has landed at his door. In July 2024, Woods turned down the role for the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, citing his injury and new Tour responsibilities.
“With my new responsibilities to the Tour and time commitments involved, I felt like I would not be able to commit the time to Team USA,” he said at the time. The PGA of America waited longer than any previous cycle before naming Keegan Bradley as captain.
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While Woods’s individual Ryder Cup playing record, 13 wins, 21 losses, and 3 halves in 8 appearances, is surprisingly modest for a player of his stature, the PGA’s persistence likely stems from his proven leadership, most notably when he captained the American squad to a comeback victory at the 2019 Presidents Cup. He became the first playing captain since Hale Irwin in 1994, and the US had a brilliant comeback on Sunday. They were trailing before the final day of singles matches but won six and tied four of the 12 matches.
An answer before Augusta will tell a lot about what Tiger Woods prioritizes heading into 2027. The captaincy question is only half the story. His playing future at Augusta has drawn just as much outside scrutiny.
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PGA Pro takes an unfiltered take on Tiger Woods’s probable Masters return
While Woods kept everyone guessing with a one-word answer at Riviera, former US Open champion Rich Beem was far more direct on the Sky Sports Golf Podcast. His core argument was simple: showing up at Augusta is very different from being ready for it.
Beem pointed out that almost every shot at Augusta National is played from an uneven lie, whether it is a second shot, a pitch, or even a putt. That kind of muscle memory cannot be built on a driving range. It needs competitive rounds with a scorecard in hand, and Woods has not played a tournament in over a year.
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Beem did acknowledge that Tiger Woods looked physically strong at the Genesis Invitational, but he was careful to separate appearance from tournament readiness. Augusta’s walking demands across 72 holes are what will ultimately expose any weakness. His legs, not his ball-striking, are the real question mark heading into April.
Beem was not alone in that assessment.
Golf analysts Trey Wingo and Justin Ray echoed similar concerns, with Wingo pointing to Augusta’s terrain as the core issue. His argument was straightforward: for anyone who has not walked the course, the sheer elevation and gradient of Augusta National are difficult to appreciate from the outside, and that physical reality is what makes a cold return there especially risky for Woods.
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Nobody dismissed Woods entirely. Afterall, he has won at Augusta five times and understands the course better than almost anyone but Beem’s concern is whether the body can hold up across four competitive rounds at one of the most physically demanding walks in major championship golf.
Golf Glance: PGA Tour starts Florida swing; Masters spot at stake in South Africa
The PGA Tour tees off its Florida swing with Brooks Koepka in the field in Palm Beach Gardens, the LPGA Tour continues its Asia swing and a coveted spot in the Masters is on the line in South Africa.
PGA TOUR
THIS WEEK: Cognizant Classic, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Feb. 26-March 1
Course: PGA National, Champion Course (Par 71, 7,223 Yards)
Purse: $9.6M (Winner: $1.728M)
Defending Champion: Joe Highsmith
FedEx Cup Leader: Jacob Bridgeman
HOW TO FOLLOW
TV: Thursday-Friday: 2-6 p.m. ET (Golf Channel); Saturday-Sunday: 1-3 p.m. (GC), 3-6 p.m. (NBC)
Streaming (ESPN+): Thursday-Friday: 6:45 a.m.-6 p.m. ET; Saturday-Sunday: 7:45 a.m.-6 p.m.
X: @the_cognizant
NOTES: The PGA Tour begins is four-tournament Florida swing with a field that includes eight of the top 50 players in the Official World Golf Ranking. … The course has been lengthened by about 100 yards from last year, and water is in play on 15 of 18 holes. Hole Nos. 15-17 are known as the
All Things Arnold Palmer: A Week of Celebrating The King at Bay Hill
Look, no disrespect to this week’s PGA Tour stop at PGA National, which I’ll be covering, but I need to be upfront with you: when it comes to Bay Hill Club & Lodge, Arnold Palmer, and the Arnold Palmer Invitational, I’m in that fanatical top 10% of fans. No question about it.
So consider this your official warning, Athlon Sports golf readers: next week (and, honestly, some of this week too) will be all things Bay Hill Club & Lodge, Arnold Palmer, and the API. We’re talking the course, its rich history, tournament history and stats, past champions, The King himself, his enduring legacy, the foundation’s impact, the hospitals bearing his name, and so much more.
Let this article serve as your notice that all things Arnie are on the horizon.
Orlando’s Signature Event Returns
Since 1979, the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard has been a proving ground for the PGA Tour’s biggest names and a can’t-miss event for golf’s most passionate fans. Each spring under the Bay Hill sun, legacies are forged, champions are crowned, and fans from across the globe come together to celebrate something bigger than just golf.
This year’s tournament runs March 2-8, 2026, and if you’ve never experienced it in person, you’re missing out on one of the tour’s most special weeks. There’s something different about Bay Hill. Maybe it’s the ghost of Arnie walking those fairways. Maybe it’s the way the tournament honors his memory while pushing today’s stars to add their names to history. Whatever it is, it works.
Tournament week at Bay Hill isn’t just about four rounds of competitive golf. It’s a celebration that kicks off Monday, March 2 with Arnie’s Army Legacy Pro-Am presented by Chick-fil-A. The shotgun start goes off at 9:00 a.m., followed by a post-event awards celebration at 2:00 p.m.
Tuesday brings the Executive Women’s Breakfast presented by Mastercard, with registration starting at 8:30 a.m. It’s one of those events that showcases how the tournament extends beyond just the competition itself.
Wednesday features the Official Arnold Palmer Invitational Pro-Am, followed by the Tournament Gala & Pro-Am Awards Celebration at 6:30 p.m. Then Thursday through Sunday, it’s game time, with gates opening at 7:30 a.m. for the first two rounds and 8:30 a.m. for the weekend.
Special Experiences You Can’t Miss
One of the coolest events during tournament week is Throwback Thursday, presented by Corkcicle. From the days of the Citrus Classic to today’s Arnold Palmer Invitational, Bay Hill has been welcoming the PGA Tour for nearly 50 years. At this event, fans can travel back through the tournament’s history while today’s biggest stars write a new chapter just steps away.
You’ll find it at the Landing off the 9th fairway, where you can sip complimentary Anheuser-Busch beer, pose with trophies from years past, and score some retro gear available only at this event. It’s the kind of experience that connects you to the tournament’s rich history in a tangible way.
For families, the VyStar Credit Union Junior Clinic is a must. Kids of all ages are invited to watch, learn, and be inspired as a PGA Tour player shares insights and demonstrates techniques. It’s about fostering a lifelong love for the game, something Arnie would have absolutely loved.
Fan Features and Amenities
If you’re planning to attend, here’s what you need to know. Bleachers are available on a first-come, first-served basis at holes 1, 6, 7, 14, 17, 18, and the driving range. The ULTRA Club features covered grandstands at hole 6, and the Technics Sound Deck at hole 7 lets you hear your favorite players tee off, react to their shots, and banter with fellow players and caddies.
Mastercard cardholders get access to the Mastercard Club, an upgraded venue with a fun atmosphere, full bar, augmented reality photo experience featuring Mastercard golf ambassadors, and spectacular views of the driving range, putting green, and 9th hole.
New this year is Arnie’s Army Fan Village on the 9th fairway, featuring a shady area with a big screen to watch the live telecast. And yes, Chick-fil-A will be serving up their iconic chicken sandwich. For foodies, check out Foodies & Fairways presented by Mastercard and Capital One Business near the main entrance off 18.
Families with young children will appreciate the Orlando Health Family Care Suites, which provide air-conditioned spaces stocked with complimentary diapers, changing tables, private nursing areas, phone charging stations, and comfortable seating. The Orlando Health Kids Zone features a putt-putt area and coloring mural wall.
A Special Podcast Guest
On Thursday, Feb. 26, as I reported yesterday, The Quiet Please Golf Podcast, which I’m a proud co-host of, will welcome Sam Saunders, grandson of Mr. Palmer and former Tour player. It’s going to be a special conversation, and I can’t wait to share it with you all.
The Legacy Lives On
What makes the Arnold Palmer Invitational truly special isn’t just the golf. It’s the way Arnold and Winnie Palmer created a blueprint for serving others. Today, driven by the generosity of “Arnie’s Army,” the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation carries on a pioneering tradition of charity, service, and doing right by others.
As Arnold Palmer once said, “When people ask what’s driven me all these years, I always give the same answer. It’s you.”
That quote captures everything about why this tournament matters. It’s about the fans, the community, the game itself, and the values that Arnie embodied throughout his life.
What’s Coming Next Week
Throughout next week, I’ll be diving deep into everything Bay Hill. Expect articles on the course’s unique challenges, tournament history and statistics, profiles of past champions, and stories about The King’s lasting impact. I’ll also share some cool finds for Arnold Palmer fanatics, from unique items on Etsy to official gear from Fanatics.
Whether you’re planning to attend in person, watching on TV, or streaming on your devices, next week is going to be a celebration of one of golf’s greatest ambassadors and one of the tour’s most beloved events.
Get ready. It’s going to be a week dedicated to The King.
Rumor: Michael Jordan to Offer NASCAR Champion a Lifeline as Jimmie Johnson Takes $100M Worth Gamble
Elliott Sadler’s 2010 Pocono crash remains one of the strangest mysteries in NASCAR history. To this day, there’s no actual footage of the impact. There’s only the shocking aftermath of his car, torn apart after slamming into an unprotected inside wall. TV cameras were busy following Kurt Busch’s wreck, leaving Sadler’s terrifying hit completely off-screen. And now? The man at the center of that unanswered moment is stepping back into the spotlight. For the first time since 2019, the former NASCAR star is getting behind the wheel again, sparking excitement, curiosity, and a whole lot of nostalgia across the racing world.
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Elliott Sadler returns to his roots
“Preparing for this race has brought back some fond memories I have from the early days of my racing career. The competition I raced against every weekend at South Boston Speedway was the best in the country, and it prepared me as I moved up the ladder. I am looking forward to carrying my old number and colors at a place that means so much to me.” Elliott Sadler said, reflecting on his long-awaited return.
For the first time in years, former NASCAR star Elliott Sadler, inspired by Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s 2026 late model comeback, is strapping back into a race car. And this time, he is returning to where it all began. Next month, he’ll drive the No. 16VA Pace-O-Matic Modified for Sadler-Stanley Racing, making his SMART Modified Tour debut in the prestigious $20,000-to-win King of the Modifieds at South Boston Speedway on March 20–21. On X (formerly Twitter), Sadler posted, “Look @DaleJr… you made me feel like I can do it !!! So I’m doing it !! Back in the saddle again !! Bigger (literally) and better than ever!!!”
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South Boston isn’t just another track for Sadler. It’s home! He won the 1995 South Boston Speedway Late Model championship, and the track even named a section of its grandstands after him. His dominance there helped launch a NASCAR career that included 17 national series wins and four Most Popular Driver awards. Sadler is also part of an elite club. He is one of only 36 drivers in history to win races in all three of NASCAR’s top national divisions.
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The event will serve as the third race of the 2026 SMART Modified Tour season. Race day kicks off on Saturday, March 21, at 2 p.m., with practice and qualifying scheduled for Friday. Fans can find the full weekend schedule at southbostonspeedway.com as the date approaches.
New playoff format for 2026 season
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The SMART Modified Tour is shaking things up in a major way for 2026, officially introducing a brand-new championship playoff system designed to heighten drama, reward consistency, and keep more teams in the hunt late into the season. The announcement came in early February following extensive off-season discussions with teams and fans, signaling a modernized direction for the historic short-track series.
Under the new structure, the “Highest Five” drivers in regular-season points will automatically advance into a three-race playoff to determine the champion. Points earned in these final events, including standard finish points and bonus points, will settle not only the title fight but the entire top five (or six) in the final standings.
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But there’s an intriguing wrinkle: the possibility of a bonus driver. When the SMART Playoffs begin at the “Rumble at Rougemont” on September 19 at Orange County Speedway, any driver ranked sixth through tenth in points who wins that race will earn a surprise playoff berth. If triggered, the playoffs expand from five to six championship contenders, all competing for the SMARTY Championship Trophy crafted by Jostens.
Before the playoffs begin, the top five drivers will have their points reset and receive placement bonuses:
1st → 35 points
2nd → 30
3rd → 25
4th → 20
5th → 15
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A potential bonus driver, however, enters with no bonus points, adding an underdog element to the format. The 2026 season is set to launch on February 28 with the Zach Brewer Memorial at Florence Motor Speedway, promising the start of a dramatic and re-energized championship campaign.
Tyler Reddick’s WWE Entrance After Daytona 500 Leaves NASCAR Fans Reeling
Michael Jordan is rumored to make a huge deal with Jimmie Johnson as the latter prepares to add a third charter to his Legacy Motor Club lineup for the 2027 NASCAR season. While Johnson is understood to have multiple options for the charter, it would be a major gamble to finalize the deal with Jordan. At the same time, however, it would give a deserving NASCAR driver the chance of a lifetime with 23XI Racing.
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LMC’s third NASCAR charter situation
Legacy Motor Club had been involved in a legal dispute with Rick Ware Racing regarding the purchase of their third charter. That is understood to be settled, and the team is expected to have the third charter next year.
As per recent rumors, there are multiple options that Jimmie Johnson has as he chooses a driver for next year. Signing a deal with Michael Jordan would mean that Riley Herbst, who currently pilots the #35 Toyota for 23XI, will move to Legacy Motor Club. Meanwhile, his place will be filled by Corey Heim, who won the Truck Series championship in 2025 in dominating fashion, but hasn’t earned a full-time Cup seat this year.
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This will be a lifeline move for Heim, who has proven himself to be very competitive behind the wheel. Moreover, 23XI could begin benefiting from its third charter, considering how Herbst has performed so far with the team. But this is exactly the issue that Jimmie Johnson will face.
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It can turn out to be a huge gamble for him to sign Herbst for his third charter. Although he might get a few sponsors, which could benefit LMC, he is not expected to bring strong performance to the table, which the team needs right now, considering their competitiveness.
However, there is another option understood for Jimmie Johnson. But there could be a major issue regarding that.
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Will Jesse Love consider LMC?
Jesse Love is one of the strongest O’Reilly Auto Parts Series drivers right now. Signed with Richard Childress Racing, he won the championship last year and has continued to show strong performance this season as well. Moreover, he will also run a few races for the team’s Cup Series division this year. But that is exactly where the paths divide for Love.
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No matter how strong RCR is in the NOAP Series, they are currently going through a tough phase in the Cup Series. The team is struggling to win, and Kyle Busch hasn’t won a race in the past two seasons. That already sounds like a tough deal for someone as strong as Love, who can be a title contender if he moves with a strong team, which RCR clearly isn’t.
But what if he signs the rumored deal with Jimmie Johnson? Well, the situation would pretty much be the same. Although Erik Jones has managed to pull out a few competitive performances, the team hasn’t been a dominant force on the grid.
Mystery remains in fire that killed NASCAR driver’s father, injured mother
Tyler Reddick’s Daytona 500 celebration wasn’t done at the Daytona International Speedway, as the 23XI Racing driver paired with WWE to make it grander. Around a week after winning the Great American Race, Reddick arrived at Monday Night RAW, leaving fans enthralled.
Tyler Reddick teamed up with CM Punk
In a recent video shared by the WWE on X, Reddick drove his Red Chumba Casino #45 Toyota Camry XSE to the garage of Monday Night RAW, held this week in Atlanta. Interestingly, Reddick was accompanied by the current World Heavyweight Champion, CM Punk, who claimed the title in November last year.
Sharing the video, WWE from its official account wrote,
“The WINNER of the Daytona 500 @tyler_reddick arrives in style with the WrestleMania Title! AND is joined by World Heavyweight Champion @CMPunk! @ChumbaCasino | @23xiracing.”
After stopping his Toyota following a couple of donuts, Reddick came out of the car with CM Punk, as both bro-fisted the WWE belts, hugged, shared a smile, and then went inside the venue.
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Reddick’s Daytona 500 victory was a culmination of miracles and hard work, as the 23XI Racing driver had to maneuver through the wrecks at Daytona, which involved over 30 cars in a 41-car field. From the Big One, to the smallest of wrecks, Reddick survived and went on to take the victory.
Nearing the last lap, the #45 driver passed Chase Elliott and held his nerve to claim the win. With this, he claimed his first-ever Daytona 500 win, which was also his team’s first Great American Race win. Interestingly, Reddick’s appearance on Monday Night RAW came just a day after his Atlanta win.
Last Sunday, Tyler Reddick claimed another victory in the Autotrader 400 at the EchoPark Speedway, as he toppled his teammate, Bubba Wallace. With this, he secured back-to-back Cup Series wins in 2026. As Reddick won two consecutive races and entered Monday Night RAW, elated fans shared their reactions on social media.
Fans share reactions as Tyler Reddick teamed up with CM Punk
A fan wrote, “Best Daytona 500 finish in years. Reddick with the gold and CM Punk in the mix?? We’re officially in the best timeline.” With this, he tried to signify how Reddick won the race he regarded as the best Daytona 500. Seeing him with CM adds more to the “mix.”
Another fan wrote, “What an entrance by CM Punk very cool to have Tyler Reddick on RAW winner of the first two races in this current NASCAR season.”
With this, the fan emphasized how CM Punk and Tyler Reddick grandly entered the arena following their Heavyweight Championship and back-to-back Cup wins.
Another fan wrote, “Does Reddick win three in a row at COTA? I think he’s distracted this week with WWE.” With this, he pointed out that the Monday Night RAW appearance can act as a distraction for Reddick on his way to winning three back-to-back races in the Cup Series.
A fan wrote, “@WWEShop Can we get the title that Tyler Reddick is holding. That looks clean.” With this, the fan asked if he could purchase the belt, which was in Tyler Reddick’s hand.
Another fan wrote, “My two worlds just collided holy s***.” This fan went bananas as he saw Tyler Reddick and CM Punk together at WrestleMania.
What do you think about Tyler Reddick’s entry with CM Punk? Let us know.
Reddick’s sizable early points lead proves winning is important in NASCAR
Mystery continues to surround a fatal house fire that destroyed the home of a NASCAR star’s parents.
The Gaston County Emergency Management & Fire Services in North Carolina has been investigating the Dec. 28 fire that killed Hamlin’s father, Dennis, and injured his mother, Mary Lou.
NBC News reported that investigators have determined the fire originated in a bedroom, but the cause remains “undetermined.” Foul play has been ruled out with the blaze labeled accidental.
Hamlin’s parents were found outside the home in Stanley, which is about 20 miles northwest of Charlotte.
Hamlin has 60 NASCAR Cup Series victories in his career and is widely regarded as the greatest driver in NASCAR history to never have won a championship.
NASCAR’s 2006 Cup Series rookie of the year and three-time Daytona 500 champion, finished second in the 2025 standings, losing to champion Kyle Larson by four points.
He won six races and had 14 top five finishes last season. Only legends like Dale Earnhardt, Mark Martin. Kevin Harvick, Jimmie Johnson, Darrell Waltrip and Jeff Gordon have more Top 5 points finishes.
Hamlin also co-owns the 23XI Racing NASCAR team with NBA legend Michael Jordan and was named one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers in 2023.
Last year, Hamlin told the Associated Press that his father was battling a serious illness.
“I know for a fact this is my last chance for my dad to see it. I don’t want him going and never getting to see the moment,” Hamlin said.
NASCAR ‘deserted’ its core fan base, but is trying to win it back
Two races into the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, Tyler Reddick has already amassed a 40-point lead over Bubba Wallace in the Cup Series standings.
A pair of wins in the Daytona 500 and Autotrader 400 at Atlanta to open the season under NASCAR’s new Chase format has proved that winning might be more important than at any time in NASCAR history regarding the title fight.
Race winners receive 20 more points (55 vs. 35) than the race’s runner-up, excluding stage points. That’s a 15-point increase from a season ago and is the reason why Reddick is already half a race up on the field in points.
Reddick’s 40-point advantage is also the biggest points lead a Cup Series driver has had after two races since Matt Kenseth won the first two races of the 2009 season and led Jeff Gordon by 81 points after two races. Kenseth’s large gap came when NASCAR awarded the winner 15 more points than second place (185 vs. 170) and used a system with more total points up for grabs.
Reddick is the first driver since Kenseth in 2009 to win the first two races of a season. That huge lead is so important for Reddick because it sets the foundation for a run at the No. 1 seed in the Chase. The driver first in the standings after 26 races will be given a 25-point lead over the second-place driver after the regular season finale at Daytona. That advantage is a massive reward going into the 10-race postseason that will feature zero points resets.
Why winning matters more
NASCAR’s elimination-style, win-and-in playoff format (2014-25) was an attempt to place a premium on race wins. Drivers were and always will be inherently driven to win, but with a victory guaranteeing a playoff berth or a spot in the next round of the playoffs, a race win was a de facto golden ticket.
But that system had its flaws. Every race win equaled five
Tyler Reddick Joins Exclusive NASCAR List With 2-0 Start
Tyler Reddick has placed himself in rare company to begin the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season.
With his victory at Atlanta Motor Speedway in the Autotrader 400, Reddick became just the sixth driver in NASCAR Cup Series history to win the first two races of a season.
The Atlanta win came one week after Reddick captured the checkered at the Daytona 500, giving him a 2-0 start to the year and marking the first time since 2009 that a driver has opened a season with back-to-back victories.
The Atlanta triumph was also the 10th Cup Series win of Reddick’s career.
Drivers to Win the First Two NASCAR Cup Series Races of a Season
Only five other drivers have opened a NASCAR Cup Series season with wins in the first two races:
Marvin Panch (1957)
Bob Welborn (1959)
David Pearson (1976)
Jeff Gordon (1997)
Matt Kenseth (2009)
Reddick is now the first driver since Kenseth in 2009 to start a Cup Series season with consecutive victories. The 17-year gap underscores how difficult it is to sweep the sport’s opening two races.
What Happened the Last Time It Occurred?
Matt Kenseth was the last driver to open a Cup Series season 2-0 in 2009, winning the Daytona 500 and the Auto Club 500. Kenseth finished the season with two wins and ranked 14th in the final standings.
In 1997, Jeff Gordon turned his fast start into one of the most dominant championship seasons of the modern era, winning 10 races and capturing the Cup Series title.
Historically, drivers who open a season with back-to-back wins position themselves as immediate championship contenders.
While a 2-0 start does not guarantee a title, it has often correlated with sustained success.
Reddick’s historic start also marks a milestone for 23XI Racing.
The 2-0 start represents a milestone moment for 23XI Racing — co-owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin — which has quickly evolved into a championship-caliber organization.
Through two races in 2026, Reddick leads the NASCAR Cup Series points standings. Teammate Bubba Wallace sits second in points following his eighth-place finish at Atlanta.
No other team has placed two drivers inside the top two in the standings through the season’s opening stretch.
The early surge positions 23XI Racing as one of the strongest organizations in the garage entering the next phase of the schedule.
How Rare Is a 2-0 Start in NASCAR?
The Cup Series has been contested for more than seven decades, yet only six drivers have managed to sweep the first two races of a season.
Between Kenseth’s 2009 start and Reddick’s 2026 breakthrough, multiple champions and Hall of Fame drivers came close but fell short of matching the feat.
That rarity reinforces the significance of Reddick’s accomplishment.
Opening with victories at Daytona and Atlanta — two drafting-style tracks that demand precision in traffic and late-race execution — adds further weight to the achievement.
Tyler Reddick’s 2026 Season Is Off to a Historic Pace
Reddick’s Atlanta win not only secured his place in NASCAR history but also gave him immediate playoff security and momentum in the championship race.
Becoming the first driver since 2009 to start 2-0 places Reddick alongside some of the most recognizable names in the sport’s history.
Through two races, the 2026 season has belonged to Tyler Reddick.
FACT CHECK: Is Bubba Wallace Getting Sued by NASCAR Cup Star? Here’s the Truth Behind Viral Facebook Claim
In the tense aftermath of the Atlanta race, a surprising rumor has spread rapidly online: that 23XI Racing’s Tyler Reddick is taking legal action against his own teammate, Bubba Wallace. The claim being examined alleges that Reddick is suing Wallace over supposed false remarks made after his victory at the Autotrader 400 at Atlanta Motor Speedway, including a comment about wanting to “make him pay.”
Verdict: False. There is no verifiable source indicating that Reddick made any such comments about his teammate after winning the race, nor any information about a lawsuit.
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What was shared online?
A viral Facebook post claims Bubba Wallace made some statements against his teammate after the Autotrader 400 this past Sunday. Reddick, claiming that these alleged statements were fake, threatened to sue his teammate and file a lawsuit: “YOU FILTHY LIAR, I WILL MAKE YOU PAY!”
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The post then led to an article that claims Reddick made those comments after Wallace questioned the legitimacy of his race win at Atlanta. Understandably, Wallace had a strong race going, but one final move dropped him from the lead to a few places back. The article then claims that Reddick lost his temper in a post-race interview and made those strong statements.
This caused quite a bit of confusion on social media. Some users did claim that the post and the statements were fake. However, those who were not familiar with exactly what happened during and after the race believed this actually happened, even though it did not.
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What actually happened, and which sources can be trusted for NASCAR news like this?
Much like the Daytona 500, Bubba Wallace was in control of the field. He had an impressive race pace and led the pack for several laps. However, on the final restart, he moved towards the outside and found no support, losing places. Reddick, meanwhile, got in winning contention alongside Carson Hocevar. He was then pushed by Chase Briscoe, who helped him win his second consecutive race this season.
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Although this was rather disappointing for Wallace, he still has a strong grip on the standings. He is placed in second position, which is more than enough for now, considering the Chase format.
Understandably, these misleading social media posts can cause quite a bit of confusion; hence, it is important to only trust the most reliable sources.
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Any post from the official NASCAR page or the official driver/team accounts can be trusted. Furthermore, few online publications, including NASCAR’s website, can be trusted with sensitive information like this.
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Journalists like Bob Pockrass, Matt Weaver, Taylor Kitchen, and Jeff Gluck are also trusted sources for any on-track, post-race, or pre-race information.
Bottom line
Rumors like these spread quite fast because of their unbelievable nature and high stakes involved. However, it remains important to double-check any such bold claims using reliable sources on the internet.
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Corey Heim’s 2026 Schedule Puts All Eyes On Toyota’s Top Prospect
Fresh off a historic 2025 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series campaign, champion Corey Heim did not have his plans set in stone for 2026. The unknown was shocking for NASCAR insiders, who have agreed that Heim is ready for a full-time Cup Series ride.
However, 23XI Racing developed a plan for Heim that will steadily prepare him for a full-time Cup career sooner rather than later. Prior to the start of the 2026 season, 23XI Racing announced Heim will compete in at least 12 races in a fourth entry, the No. 67 Toyota, with backing from Robinhood and Celsius.
Heim qualified for the 2026 Daytona 500 on speed to start the year. His neon Toyota was strong throughout the weekend, and he led eight laps during the Great American Race. But he finished 28th after being caught up in a 17-car crash.
“I’m really excited,” Heim said before the Daytona 500. “This is technically my third season with 23XI, even though I’ve only made five starts (now six). To be able to get to know most of the people in the shop from the the marketing side to the competition side has been great. We have a lot of good races on the schedule this year with a lot of good opportunities with a great team.”
Corey Heim’s Journey With 23XI Racing
Heim signed a development deal with 23XI Racing three years ago. Ever since, he’s been developing marketing partners to enable him to compete at the Cup level. As his stardom has grown on the track, 23XI Racing has made sure to keep him in house.
The only time Heim has competed in the Cup Series for a different team was when Legacy Motor Club’s Erik Jones was injured in 2024, and Heim took over his No. 43 Toyota for two races.
But 23XI Racing only has three charters, and they are currently fully sponsored. The fourth part-time entry, which Heim competed with in 2025, will enable him to get his feet wet before he goes full-force at NASCAR’s top level. His results last year certainly raised eyebrows, finishing sixth at Bristol Motor Speedway in the Bass Pro Shops Night Races, which took place in the heart of the playoffs.
His growth in the Cup car came as he was chasing records in the Truck Series, which he eventually shattered. Heim won an astonishing 12 of 25 races en route to the 2025 championship, leading 1,625 laps and leading a lap in every event.
Right now, the plan is for Heim to compete part-time in all three NASCAR divisions, a move that will keep him fresh even if he’s not racing in the Cup Series on a given weekend. Last weekend, he competed at EchoPark Speedway with Tricon Garage with Celsius as his primary sponsor.
“This is the most consistent my schedule has been throughout a year,” Heim said. “If you want to look at percentages of Cup versus Truck I’ve done throughout the years, this is the most consistent as far as that goes. Being in the same car week-in and week-out definitely helps, but at the same time, going to the Truck Series and O’Reilly Series will help me as a driver. I’ve never been opposed to mixing it up.”
Finding The Right Partners
For the sake of Heim’s long-term success, it is vital for 23XI Racing to find the perfect marketing partners. Robinhood, which came on board with the team last year, expanded its relationship for 2026, starting with the Daytona 500.
And Celsius, which sponsors several NASCAR drivers, joined 23XI Racing to back Heim in the summer race at Daytona.
“Last year, I was able to have a partnership with Celsius, but this is the first year they’ve had a primary on one of our trucks,” Heim said. “Celsius has been an awesome partner to have, and I feel like they’ve been helping me to be energized for my workouts and my routine. To have them as a key part of not only my daily life, but also as a primary on my racecar, makes sense and it’s a special feeling.”
Heim recognizes how vital it is to grow these partnerships as he attempts to go full-time in the Cup Series.
Respect Pours in for Bubba Wallace as He Offers Financial Lifeline to Struggling NASCAR Driver
Bubba Wallace just showed why he’s one of the most respected drivers in the garage. The 23XI Racing star didn’t just offer words of encouragement to a fellow NASCAR driver fighting to keep his season alive; he backed it up with real money and challenged others to step up, too. In a sport where funding can make or break a career, one driver’s public request for help turned into a powerful moment of support. It’s easy to send a shoutout on social media. It’s a whole different story to open your wallet and lead the charge. Wallace did exactly that.
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Wallace Sparks NASCAR Community Support for Brad Perez
From his official X account, Bubba Wallace quote-tweeted Brad Perez’s post and offered $15,000 in financial support. With this, he also urged his fans to join in, tagging fellow NASCAR big shots, including Team Penske driver Ryan Blaney, former NASCAR champion Kevin Harvick, and NASCAR team owner and former driver Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Perez, in his account, thanked his followers for the upcoming undisclosed ARCA Menards race and said he wanted an open-ride opportunity in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series races at venues such as Martinsville, Darlington, Charlotte, and Kansas.
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“Hey everyone, I wanted to say thank you all so much for the help. The ARCA race is covered. However, the O’Reilly opportunity slipped away. Still trying to lock in some open ride opportunities for Martinsville, Charlotte, Darlington, and Kansas. Thanks again, it means the world,” Perez wrote.
Quote-tweeting this, Wallace wrote,”
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“I like Martinsville. I’m in for 15k. Let’s get some more funds for my dawg here to go race! @Blaney @KevinHarvick @DaleJr.”
Notably, Dale Earnhardt Jr. runs an O’Reilly Auto Parts Series team, JR Motorsports, and if all stars align perfectly, Brad Perez might sit on a JRM car at the NFPA 250 on March 28, 2026, at the Martinsville Speedway.
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Perez, who hails from Hollywood, Florida, has 19 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series races under his belt, and interestingly, his last race was at the same track last year — the 2025 IAA and Ritchie Bros. 250 at Martinsville.
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Additionally, the 29-year-old also drove in the Craftsman Truck Series, with five races to his name. Coming into 2026, he is also involved in ARCA Series races, driving the #10 Ford Mustang for Fast Track Racing. That said, it will be interesting to see if Brad Perez can land the ride at Martinsville.
Fans react to Bubba Wallace’s assistance on Brad Perez
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A fan wrote, “In case anyone needed more proof, Bubba is a great dude.” With this, the fan mentioned how Wallace has built a reputation for backing his words with action. From pushing for NASCAR’s ban on the Confederate flag in 2020 to supporting diversity efforts and mentoring younger drivers, he has consistently used his platform beyond racing.
Echoing that sentiment, another fan wrote, “Bubba Wallace remains goated.” As the only full-time Black driver in NASCAR’s Cup Series and a central figure at 23XI Racing, Wallace’s influence extends beyond the track. In 2020, he took a public stand against racial injustice, calling on NASCAR to ban the Confederate flag, a move the organization implemented shortly after.
The praise did not stop there, another fan wrote, “Perez was looking for sponsors, and a ride, and then Bubba said he’s in for 15k. I love this sport, and no one can convince me otherwise.” With this, the fan highlighted how Wallace stepped up to support a struggling driver, saying that moments like these are exactly why he loves the sport. In NASCAR’s lower series, funding remains a major hurdle, with many drivers relying heavily on sponsorship dollars just to secure a seat.
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A fan wrote, “I wasn’t the biggest fan, but since you became a dad, I can really see a change, you’ve become one of the most likeable & fun person to watch, been a fan of @rajahcaruth_ since day 1 and love what has become of that young man, a good credit of that goes to you as well.” With this, the fan stated that Bubba Wallace changed after becoming a father on September 29, 2024.
Did you like Bubba Wallace’s effort for Brad Perez? Let us know.
Konnor Griffin, MLB’s No. 1 Prospect, Hits 2 Home Runs In Pirates Game
The future was sent over the outfield wall for the Pittsburgh Pirates on Tuesday.
In the top of the second inning of Pittsburgh’s spring training matchup against the Boston Red Sox on Tuesday afternoon, shortstop Konnor Griffin — the No. 1 prospect in Major League Baseball, according to MLB Pipeline — demolished a curveball from star left-hander Ranger Suarez over the left field wall.
Two innings later, faced with an 0-2 count, Griffin launched a home run to left-center field for his second long ball of the game. He finished the day going 2-for-4 with four RBIs.
Pittsburgh selected the now-19-year-old Griffin directly out of high school with the ninth overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft. He played at three levels of minor-league ball for the Pirates in 2025, appearing in 50 games in Low-A, 51 games in High-A and 21 games in Double-A.
In all, Griffin totaled 21 home runs, 94 RBIs and 65 stolen bases across 122 combined games in 2025, while posting a .333/.415/.527 slash line. He made 88 starts at shortstop, 15 in center field and 18 as a designated hitter.
The Pirates are coming off a 71-91 season, their seventh consecutive year with a losing record and 10th consecutive year missing the playoffs.
That said, they were active this offseason, acquiring second baseman and two-time All-Star Brandon Lowe from the Tampa Bay Rays and making a five-player trade with the Red Sox that sent pitchers Johan Oviedo and Tyler Samaniego and catcher Adonys Guzman to Boston for outfielder Jhostynxon Garcia and right-hander Jesus Travieso.
How to Watch Cardinals vs Nationals: Live Stream MLB Spring Training, TV Channel
The St. Louis Cardinals face the Washington Nationals in this MLB Grapefruit League Spring Training matchup on Tuesday in Florida.
How to Watch Cardinals vs Nationals
When: Tuesday, February 24, 2026
Time: 6:05 PM ET
TV Channel: MLB.TV
Live Stream: Fubo (try for free)
Spring Training is a critical period for Major League Baseball teams, serving as both a preseason proving ground and an opportunity to fine-tune rosters and strategies before the regular season begins. In 2026, Spring Training carries added significance as teams not only integrate high-profile signings and assess returning stars, but also prepare players who participated in the World Baseball Classic, managing workloads and evaluating how international competition affects form and readiness.
It’s a key time for managers to test pitching rotations, bullpen depth, and lineup balance, while giving younger prospects a chance to compete for playing time. With expanded media coverage and streaming access in 2026, Spring Training has become not just a preparation phase but a showcase of emerging talent, WBC participants’ performance, and potential storylines that can set the tone for the entire MLB season.
The Washington Nationals finished the 2025 season with a 66–96 record, placing 5th in the National League East. They head into 2026 with CJ Abrams powering the offense and young pitchers Mitchell Parker, MacKenzie Gore, and Josiah Gray leading the pitching staff.
The St. Louis Cardinals finished the 2025 season with a 78–84 record, placing 4th in the National League Central. They head into 2026 with Gold Glove shortstop Masyn Winn anchoring the defense and veteran outfielder Lars Nootbaar expected to be a key run producer.
This is a great Spring Training matchup that you will not want to miss; make sure to tune in and catch all the action.
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Ramon Urias Could Have Bigger Role Than Expected with Cardinals, Insider Says
The St. Louis Cardinals made one last signing over the weekend, bringing veteran utility infielder Ramon Urias on board via a one-year, $2 million contract with a mutual option for 2027. St. Louis had sought a right-handed outfield bat, but when that search failed, they pivoted to infielders and found Urias.
Urias hit .241/.292/.384 with 11 home runs, 44 RBI, a 2.2 WAR and a .675 OPS in 2025 with the Baltimore Orioles and Houston Astros. He is intended to be a backup infielder and a bat off the bench.
However, Daniel Guerrero of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch said in his recent chat that this could possibly change, depending on how other players perform in spring training.
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What role could Urias have in 2026?
Shota Imanaga encouraged by velocity in Spring Training debut
MESA, Ariz. — There was a significantly larger crowd of Japanese media gathered around Cubs starter Shota Imanaga after his spring debut on Tuesday afternoon. With so many of MLB’s Japanese stars en route to Tokyo for the World Baseball Classic, Imanaga found himself in front of reporters who had been covering other camps.
Back in 2023, Imanaga took the ball in the gold-medal game for Samurai Japan’s dramatic win over Team USA in the Classic. This year, the lefty opted to remain behind with the Cubs to focus on his delivery and training ahead of an important comeback season for a Chicago team with World Series aspirations.
“Obviously, Team Japan has fantastic players,” Imanaga said via interpreter Edwin Stanberry. “From the Cubs, we have Seiya [Suzuki] out there. I think the most important thing is everybody stays healthy. And if they can win the whole thing, I’ll be rooting them on.”
For his part in Tuesday’s 6-5 win over the Padres, Imanaga worked two shutout innings, finishing with one strikeout, no walks and three hits. The left-hander logged 33 pitches, generating four whiffs out of the 19 swings from San Diego’s hitters. Imanaga featured his signature fastball-splitter combination, mixing in a sweeper and curve, too.
Most notably, Imanaga’s fastball velocity was 93 mph on average, per Statcast. That was 2.2 mph higher than his 2025 season average of 90.8 mph. And last year’s showing was down from 91.7 mph in his standout rookie campaign in ‘24. While Imanaga relies more on command and deception, the early radar gun readings are a positive sign.
“I want to preface it by saying, for me, velo isn’t everything,” Imanaga said. “But obviously, having velocity is an advantage. So, I feel like today out there, it felt like the velo was up. Overall, my takeaway was that it was a good start.”
One of Imanaga’s primary goals over the offseason and throughout this spring has been to get his lower-half strength back to where it was prior to his hamstring injury in May. That setback played a role in his second-half struggles, as the lefty fought some subtle delivery issues over the final few months.
“Physically, I felt great out there,” he said. “All that work that I put in to build up to that, I feel like that was displayed today. I think overall, it was a good day.”
While Imanaga had a tough ending to last season, Cubs manager Craig Counsell has remained optimistic about the pitcher’s ability to bounce back in a big way this year.
“I thought Shota was in a great place [going into the offseason],”Counsell said. “I was really happy with how he left and very confident that he would put himself in a very good position, and he was ready to do that.”
CONFORTO IN CAMP
While the Cubs have not yet officially announced the signing of outfielder Michael Conforto to a Minor League contract (plus a non-roster invite), he was in team gear and went through a normal workout day at the team’s complex on Tuesday morning.
Counsell noted that Conforto would spend the next few days going through workouts, but could get into a Cactus League game by Saturday or Sunday. With Pete Crow-Armstrong (Team USA) and Suzuki (Japan) headed to the World Baseball Classic, the Cubs will have more at-bats to offer to players in the backup outfield mix: Conforto, along with Kevin Alcántara, Justin Dean, Chas McCormick and Dylan Carlson.
“I wish those guys were here in one sense,” Counsell said about Crow-Armstrong and Suzuki. “But it creates opportunity for other people.”
LONG IMPROVING
First baseman Jonathon Long (Pipeline’s No. 6 Cubs prospect at the end of 2025) added some more light baseball activity to his day on Tuesday, following the left elbow sprain he sustained in Saturday’s game. Long, who is slated to play for Chinese Taipei, has pushed his travel back to Friday for the World Baseball Classic to continue testing his elbow in the coming days.
“He’s doing much better,” Counsell said. “No issue with X-rays or anything like that. The soreness is dissipating. Still a little residual soreness, but it’s the kind that’s improving every day. Took some swings today.”
QUOTABLE
“We sat down with him this morning. I thought Michael laid it out really well, kind of where he’s at. He’s in a good place. You learn from all your experiences and it puts you in a good place. You have uncertainty when you come to camp on a non-roster deal, and I think he’s in a position to use that uncertainty in a really good way.” – Counsell, on Conforto
Yankees’ title hopes will have to go through MLB’s toughest division
DUNEDIN, Fla. — When the U.S. men followed the U.S. women in beating Canada in the gold medal hockey game at the Olympics, Aaron Boone said he sent a meme — Hulk Hogan playing a guitar — to his former ESPN broadcast partner, Toronto native and Blue Jays broadcaster Dan Shulman.
It was a good-natured exchange between friends. It also was what Boone could not do last year for himself — in the regular season or playoffs — against Canada’s lone major league team.
For the Yankees, it continued an issue that has beset them for years, notably during Boone’s tenure.
The Yankees are good every year. Usually very good. Eventually, though, they run up against a team in the playoffs that is no less than their equal and their season ends.
Bold goals for MLB stars in 2026
While it’s rare to hear players be this vocal about specific goals in a season, it’s also the time of year when media members and fans alike make their bold predictions for the upcoming year. And while it might seem far-fetched for Chisholm to reach 50 homers and steals in a season, surely nobody was expecting Ohtani to reach those marks in 2024, or for Cal Raleigh to slug 60 homers last season.
Bold predictions are fun. What about even bolder predictions or goals that, perhaps unlikely, are not completely unreasonable? Here are seven bold(er) predictions we’d like to see come true from top players in the 2026 season.
At this point, it’s hard to put anything past the two-way superstar. We’ve seen Ohtani unanimously win four MVP awards since 2021, go 6-for-6 to create the 50-50 club and have a pair of historic playoff games in last year’s NLCS against the Brewers and the World Series vs. the Blue Jays. Entering the 2026 season fully healthy, what’s stopping Ohtani from even more legendary feats?
Ohtani’s already crushed 50-plus homers in each of the last two seasons, so we know he’s capable of reaching that mark again. The 200-plus strikeouts as a pitcher may be trickier (especially if the Dodgers limit his innings in any way), but he did punch out a career-high 219 batters in 2022 with the Angels. It’s worth reiterating: Ohtani’s done the unthinkable on so many occasions that he could very well pull off something like this.
The Royals moved the fences in at Kauffman Stadium, a significant development for what was the second-most spacious park in the Majors. MLB.com’s Mike Petriello dove deep into the effects this would have for hitters and, you guessed it, it’s going to boost home runs in a big way. That’s good news for someone like Royals superstar Bobby Witt Jr.
Witt has homered 20-plus times in each of his first four seasons, including 30-homer seasons in 2023 and ‘24. After homering 23 times last season, he looks primed to significantly boost that total in 2026. Witt produces elite quality of contact — he’s one of six players with at least 200 barrels since 2023 — so the jump to 40 home runs might’ve already been in reach before the ballpark changes. After going 30-30 in 2023 and ‘24, maybe he gets to the 40-40 club this year.
Tarik Skubal is coming off consecutive AL Cy Young Awards so it’s hard to imagine him leveling up even more. Yet, the dynamic left-hander is entering his final year before free agency, will pitch for Team USA in the upcoming World Baseball Classic and is the focal point for a Tigers club poised for big things this season.
Skubal struck out 241 batters last season after punching out 228 hitters in 2024. The fact that Skubal did so in just under 200 innings in each of those seasons lends some optimism for a potential 300-strikeout season. Considering what’s at stake for Skubal and the Tigers this season, it’s not hard to envision the lefty pushing upwards of 200 innings. If that happens, maybe — just maybe — Skubal will become the first pitcher with 300 strikeouts in a season since Gerrit Cole and Justin Verlander in 2019.
Like Skubal, it’s hard to imagine Paul Skenes being any better. But the Pirates right-hander posted a 1.96 ERA across 320 2/3 innings in his first two seasons, a time in which most players are working through initial struggles in the Majors. Skenes looks like a generational talent and could very well raise his game even more in 2026 and beyond.
Ten-plus WAR seasons (using Baseball Reference’s version) used to be a little more common for pitchers — there are 121 such seasons — but they never exactly been common. Zack Greinke last did it in 2009 with 10.4 WAR for the Royals. Randy Johnson (2001-02) and Pedro Martínez (2000) are the only other pitchers in the 21st century to reach that mark.
Given that starting pitchers are throwing fewer innings than ever, it’s increasingly harder to cross that threshold, but Skenes could do it. He posted 7.7 WAR in 187 2/3 innings last year and 5.9 WAR in 133 innings in ’24. If Skenes raises his game further and pitches more than 200 innings, we might see the Pittsburgh ace reach 10-plus WAR.
Konnor Griffin is MLB Pipeline’s No. 1 prospect and possibly one of the best prospects in recent memory. There’s already buzz about the 19-year-old (he turns 20 in April) being the Pirates’ shortstop on Opening Day but even if that doesn’t happen, Griffin will surely play a major part in Pittsburgh’s plans for the season.
Griffin’s tools are incredibly loud — he hit 21 home runs and stole 65 bases in 122 MiLB games last year — and his overall skillset could translate fairly quickly to the Majors. If Griffin plays in 120-plus games in the Majors, there’s a real chance he flashes the kind of tools and production to make him an instant star. Only 15 players have reached 20 home runs and 50 stolen bases (done on 23 occasions) but Griffin has the power-speed combo to reach this mark.
Mason Miller has the swing-and-miss stuff to join that club. Since becoming a full-time reliever in 2024, Miller has struck out an MLB-best 43.1 percent of opposing hitters. After running a 41.8 percent strikeout rate in 2024, that number jumped to 44.4 percent last season.
Those strikeout numbers were even more staggering following his Deadline trade to the Padres last summer: Miller struck out 45 of the 83 batters he faced, good for a 54.2 percent strikeout rate. Entering his age-27 season as the closer for a competitive Padres club, Miller could be poised for a monstrous season.
Ok, this prediction is a little more open-ended but there are a handful of young sluggers who could realistically hit 50 home runs. And in MLB history, there have only been six players younger than 25 (based on their age on the final day of the season) who have homered 50 times in a season:
That’s a limited and very rewarding group of players. In terms of who could join that club this year, there’s Junior Caminero (45 home runs in 2025), Nick Kurtz (36 home runs) and James Wood (31 home runs). Caminero nearly got there last season, but moving from Steinbrenner Field back to Tropicana Field might shave off some homers. Kurtz will remain in the friendly confines of Sutter Health Park and will be on the roster for a full season, which might make him the best bet to reach that mark.
Pipeline Podcast prospects making debuts on Top 30 lists 2026
Can you feel it? Baseball is in the air! Spring Training games are in full swing, the calendar is about to flip to March and a pair of MLB Pipeline’s Top 100 prospects are already grabbing headlines — Konnor Griffin (No. 1) and Travis Bazzana (No. 20) — for launching monster moonshots early on at big league camp.
On the latest MLB Pipeline Podcast, Jim Callis and Jonathan Mayo — with host Jason Ratliff — provide a glimpse into the upcoming release of the new Top 30 prospects lists for each club, which will begin to roll out on Monday, March 2, with the AL/NL East teams followed by the AL/NL Central teams on Tuesday, March 3, and concluding with the AL/NL West teams on Wednesday, March 4. The week’s excitement won’t end there as Spring Breakout rosters are expected to be announced on Thursday, March 5, and all-new Farm System rankings will cap off the week on Friday, March 6.
Patrick Clohisy, OF, Braves
Mayo:
Rangers’ Corey Seager ranks among MLB’s best on ESPN list of top 10 shortstops in baseball
After the Marcus Semien trade, Corey Seager enters the new season as the Texas Rangers’ longest-tenured position player.
He’s also a long-tenured member of preseason MLB “top shortstop” lists.
As the veteran Seager enters his 12th major league season, ESPN baseball guru Buster Olney places him right in the middle of his list of the top 10 shortstops in baseball: He has Seager at No. 5.
Seager is coming off another stellar year with an .860 OPS and 6.2 WAR in 2025, according to Baseball Reference. It was a season that met his usual standard — when he was actually on the field. Seager played just 102 games last year. He’s missed significant time in each of his last three seasons in Texas.
Perhaps that’s why Olney dropped him a spot from last year’s list, flip-flopping him with Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor at No. 4.
Here’s what Olney had to say about Seager.
“Seager is very different from Lindor in that he tends to miss a lot of games — he was out for 60 last year, and he has reached 135 games on the season only once in the past eight years. But when he plays, he is a difference-maker: He generated 6.2 WAR in 102 games last season and has averaged a 139 OPS+ over the past eight. The Rangers might bear more injury worry than just about any other franchise, with Seager, Nathan Eovaldi and Jacob deGrom some of their core players — so they don’t have a lot of margin for error. They desperately need Seager to stay in the lineup.
Paul Skenes will make multiple starts in 2026 WBC – with a caveat
The Americans are only getting one World Baseball Classic start from one Cy Young Award winner, but could get multiple from another.
Paul Skenes told MLB insider Ken Rosenthal that he expects to make one start for Team USA in pool play and possibly another if the team advances in the international tournament.
“We win, we go as far as we should, I’ll pitch again in the tournament,” Skenes said.
The 2025 National League Cy Young winner’s decision stands in contrast to left-handed Tarik Skubal, who said Monday he will make one outing against Great Britain on March 7 before returning to spring training with the Tigers.
“I’m trying to do both things, trying to pitch for Team USA but I understand the need to be here with these guys and get ready for the season,” Skubal said. “I think it’s kind of the best of both worlds in that aspect, and I’m grateful they took me in that capacity.”
Skubal, the two-time reigning Cy Young winner in the American League, said he would like to return to the team to watch — if the Americans reach the final round.
Giants ace Logan Webb said Tuesday that he plans to stick it out throughout the WBC, and while he will be there for the entirety of the tournament, said he understands why Skubal, an impending free agent, is deciding to pitch just once.
“I’m not in his shoes,” Webb said, according to MLB.com. “I’ve got three years left on my contract. He doesn’t. He has one year and then he’s a free agent. I get the thought of it.”
In Skenes, Team USA will have arguably the best right-hander in baseball, who led MLB in ERA (1.97) and FIP (2.36) with an NL-best 0.948 WHIP last season.
The Americans also will have, on a star-studded roster, retired Dodgers legend Clayton Kershaw, who announced he’ll make an appearance in what will likely be his final chapter as a pitcher.
There will also be a New York contingent on the staff, with Mets starters Clay Holmes and Nolan McLean and Yankees reliever David Bednar all on the roster.
Team USA has exhibitions against the Giants and Rockies next week before kicking off pool play against Brazil on March 6 at Daikin Park in Houston.
Umpire has rough game with five straight calls overturned on ABS
And you think you had a tough day at the office.
One umpire had five calls consecutively overturned by the automated ball-strike challenge system during Tuesday’s Pirates-Red Sox Grapefruit League spring training game in Fort Myers, Fla.
Home plate umpire Mitch Trzeciak must have been red in the face when a number of his calls were challenged and overturned. But he later earned himself a sarcastic cheer when one call was upheld by ABS.
It started in the first inning when Pirates catcher Endy Rodriguez challenged a ball call on a pitch from Carmen Mlodzinski, and the ABS review very clearly showed the ball was a strike and went essentially right down the middle.
NESN play-by-play man Tom Caron couldn’t help but point out the obvious error by saying, “And that one, kind of right down the middle.”
Caron continued to point out the rough day that Trzeciak was having during the broadcast.
“You’ve missed two, and one was right down the middle, and one was two inches outside, and you’re like, ‘Alright, I’m having a bad day, and everybody knows it,’” Caron said later on in the broadcast.
In the end, Trzeciak, a Triple-A umpire getting a chance to call a big league game, had five calls that were overturned by the challenge system before the end of the third.
But the calls weren’t the only bizarre thing to take place during Tuesday’s game.
Red Sox outfielder Wilyer Abreu was left a bit stunned when he broke his bat on a check swing in the bottom of the fourth inning.
Abreu did not make contact with the ball, yet a large section of his bat went flying off, leaving him holding a small piece of it.
The Pirates defeated the Red Sox in the exhibition game 16-7.
NFL World Reacts To Vikings Receiver’s Tragic Passing
On Saturday February 21 the news came out that Minnesota Vikings wide receiver, Rondale Moore was found dead in his garage aged 25.
An investigation is currently being conducted by the New Albany Police Department after Moore was found with what is currently suspected to be a self-inflicted gun wound.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell released a statement in the aftermath of his sudden death, and beyond that voices came from far and wide in the NFL world to pay tribute to Moore.
NFL reporter and television personality, who has spoken at length over the course of his career about mental health and suicide prevention, made a long post talking in detail about the tragic events that transpired with Moore and ways in which other players should seek help from their teammates and others if they are struggling.
Jay Glazer Sends Message to NFL Players Amidst Rondale Moore Tragedy
“The NFL lost another teammate wayyyyy too young yesterday in Rondale Moore. Absolutely gutting. Listen, to every athlete out there… I will keep saying this over and over and over again… when you are in pain LEAN INTO YOUR TEAMMATES!!!! They WANT to be there for you. A locker room is absolutely magical!!! It’s such a unique FAMILY.” Glazer posted on X.
“I get hiding the pain because I did for 50 years!!! Had the biggest personality to hide really really bad pain. That pain absolutely fucking sucks!! I get jt. You feel like you don’t want to be a burden to others or others won’t understand. Turned out I was wrong!!
Life changed when I started opening up. It will for you too and most of all… YOUR TEAMMATES WANT TO BE THERE FOR YOU!!!
So if you’re struggling, open up, it’ll only get you closer together. Take THAT plunge… instead of making that other decision. Pleaseeee lean into your teammates.”
Former Teammates Pay Tribute to Rondale Moore
Wide receiver A.J. Green, who spent two seasons with the Arizona Cardinals and overlapped one season with Moore, in the former second round pick’s rookie season, also had some words for the ex-Cardinal.
“Not my son, not ‘Rondale Green’ man…we talked daily man. FaceTimed weekly…” Green wrote on Instagram, via the Sleeper Bengals page on X. “Really wishing you would’ve taken me up on that offer to come and stay with me and the family. I truly meant it…Love you forever lil bro.”
Another former teammate, future Hall of Fame defensive end J.J. Watt, also shared some heartfelt words in memory of Moore.
“Can’t even begin to fathom or process this.” Watt wrote on X. “There’s just no way.”
“Way too soon.
Way too special.
So much left to give.
Rest in Peace Rondale.”
Jets staring down critical NFL scouting combine week with plenty of roster holes to fix
INDIANAPOLIS — The foundation of the Jets 2026 season will begin to be built here this week.
The NFL Scouting Combine is when the NFL offseason hits overdrive.
You have teams, agents and college prospects all in the same city for a few days and teams’ offseason plans begin to come to fruition.
For the Jets, they are trying to fix a team that went 3-14 in the first year of head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey.
There are holes all over the roster, most notably at quarterback, that will begin to be filled.
The new league year begins March 11, and that is when teams can officially sign free agents.
But deals will be discussed this week, both with the team’s own free agents and targets from other teams.
This is also a key week for draft evaluations as prospects go through drills, interview with teams and have medical exams.
At his end-of-season news conference, Mougey set the expectations for 2026.
“I believe we can be competitive and respectable right away, next year,” Mougey said.
To do that, the Jets are going to have to be much, much better in Year 2 under Glenn than they were in Year 1.
The Jets were noncompetitive in the final month of the season and lost their final five games after opening the season 0-7.
Glenn made changes at both offensive and defensive coordinator and the process was not smooth.
That is something he’ll have to answer when he meets with the media here on Tuesday.
This is a big offseason for Glenn, who enters 2026 on the hot seat.
Glenn is expected to call the defensive plays this season but it will be interesting to see if he alters his approach in other ways.
At the end of the season, he hinted at realizing he made mistakes.
“As a rookie head coach, and same thing as a GM, man, going through the first year and really understanding the landscape of everything, like that’s a huge deal,” Glenn said. “I will tell you that right now. And speaking on myself, man, there’s a number of things that I know I will be better at.”
The first order of business for the Jets is dealing with their own free agents.
Breece Hall is at the top of the list and the team must decide if they are going to use the franchise or transition tag on him by the March 3 deadline.
If they franchise him, it will cost about $14.5 million.
A transition tag is cheaper, about $11.5 million, but they run the risk of losing him to another team with no draft pick compensation.
Hall’s representatives will not only be able to get a feel for the Jets’ plans this week but also what kind of value other teams put on him.
Beyond Hall, the Jets have decisions to make on guards Alijah Vera-Tucker and John Simpson as well as linebacker Quincy Williams and kicker Nick Folk.
The Jets are projected to have about $80 million in salary cap space and Mougey is going to have to spread that around to cover up all the holes on the roster.
That means exploring a lot of free agents and those conversations will heat up this week, as well.
“I think everyone wants to be aggressive, but calculated with how they attack offseasons,” Mougey said in January. “Whether that’s free agency and the draft, and just knowing your team, knowing your division, and what you need. You can say it’s an aggressive approach, but it really needs to be a very calculated approach, knowing your resources, your draft resources, your cap, your future cap and what that might look like. So yeah, we’re always going to look to add and kind of know where we might be deficient and where we might need to really add power to compete in the division.”
Finally, the evaluations of the college players will pick up this week.
Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese is the player being connected to the Jets with the No. 2 pick most frequently and the team will get to see him up close.
They are not expected to draft a quarterback in the first round but they will get a look at the potential Day 2 and Day 3 picks at the position as they try to solve their never-ending quarterback riddle.
Report: YouTube is negotiating with NFL for extra package of four games
The partial merger between the NFL and ESPN has resulted in the league acquiring four games that can be resold to the highest bidder.
Via Austin Karp of Sports Business Journal, YouTube is negotiating with the league regarding the four extra games that are now available.
A number of parties, per the report, remain interested in the package.
It’s the latest example of a current trend. The league finds extra games that can be sold outside the boundaries of the current packages, with streamers like YouTube and Netflix getting a partial seat at the table.
For its first NFL broadcast, YouTube carried the 2025 Week 1 game between the Chiefs and Chargers from Brazil, via free global stream.
The centerpiece of the extra package is the Australia game between the 49ers and the Rams. It’s due to be played on Wednesday, September 9, or Thursday, September 10.
32 NFL Teams Get Concerning Update on 2,282-Yard WR Amid NFL Combine Decision
While the NFL Scouting Combine is officially underway in Indianapolis, Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson is facing a concerning situation. Projected as a potential first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Tyson had drawn significant interest from all 32 NFL teams eager to evaluate his on-field performance this week. Instead, scouts from the NFL teams just received an unexpected update regarding Tyson’s health.
“Sources: Arizona State WR Jordyn Tyson won’t be doing any on-field workouts or testing at the NFL Combine. He continues to work his way back from his in-season hamstring injury,” The Athletic’s Dane Brugler reported via X on February 23.
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As it turns out, rather than participating in workouts on the field, Jordyn Tyson will have to limit his Combine involvement to team interviews, weigh-ins, and medical evaluations due to the hamstring injury. The medical checks could further play a crucial role in shaping Tyson’s draft stock – not only because of his current injury but also due to multiple injuries that interrupted an otherwise productive college career in which he recorded 158 receptions for 2,282 yards and 22 touchdowns.
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Inside the NFL Combine: The Grueling Six-Day Schedule Prospects Must Survive
The NFL will shuffle almost 320 prospects in and out of the city of Indianapolis this week for the 2026 combine. They will be tested mentally as well as physically, medically examined, and put through an exhaustive interview process. To put it in simple terms, this will be the most important job interview of their lives. So what’s the routine like for players invited to the combine? It’s changed a bit over the years.
Unlike All-Star games such as the Shrine Bowl and Senior Bowl, players don’t arrive at the combine in Indianapolis all at once. Rather, they are staggered throughout the week by position group. Yet once in town, the schedule is basically the same for the six days they are in the city.
Interviews with NFL teams are scheduled for three of the six days players are at the combine. The interviews have historically been held at the Crowne Plaza, and now often in stadium suites or combine facilities. Teams are given 15 minutes to interview as many as 60 players from all the position groups, and many of the questions can be off the wall.
Some players are asked personal questions about their lives or the lives of their families. Others are harshly questioned and even yelled at. Offensive lineman Ezra Cleveland of the Jacksonville Jaguars once told me a team from the NFC East got in his face and screamed, “I watched your tape, and it’s dog crap!”, though they used an alternative word for crap.
“I couldn’t stop laughing,” he said when I asked Cleveland what his reaction was. “After the guy was done screaming at me, his lips kept moving even though he wasn’t talking!”
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Some questions come out of nowhere; Arizona Cardinals All-Pro tight end Trey McBride once told me a team asked him, “What color is chocolate?” He answered, “Brown”, not realizing there was also white chocolate. What that has to do with playing tight end is anyone’s guess.
Combine interviews have taken on less importance in recent years for players who attended the Shrine or Senior Bowls, as both of those events allow teams to exhaustively meet with the prospects on hand. Hence, if you hear or read that a player only had five interviews at the combine, check to see if he attended either the Shrine or Senior Bowl before raising the red flag.
Throughout the week, players also face the media for interviews. And while the questions are not as hostile as those often asked by teams, players had best watch their answers.
Edge rusher Jachai Polite was perceived as a potential first-round pick coming out of Florida until his interview with the media at the Combine. Polite recounted how he found the interview process with teams harsh and unfair. He dropped from a potential first-round choice into the third round and was out of the league after two seasons.
Receiver Adonai Mitchell, traded from the Indianapolis Colts to the New York Jets last season, also watched his draft stock plummet due to media interviews. During media interviews in 2024, Mitchell came across as uncommitted to football. Those answers plus character concerns saw him drop from a first-round prospect into the late part of round two.
Not long ago, weigh-ins were completed the day after players arrived. Players would get on a platform in front of scouts, coaches, and general managers to be weighed and measured. That’s since changed, as weigh-ins now take place right before on-field workouts for each position group.
Why the change?
Players, specifically the smaller players, would purposely chug gallons of water the days before weigh-ins with hopes of adding artificial weight to their frames. They would then naturally pass the excessive water out of their bodies over the next few days and be back to their natural, lighter weight by the time they took the field for workouts.
I remember two specific incidents where players ran off the weigh-in stage and straight into the bathroom to relieve themselves so they would not have an accident in front of the large crowd at weigh-ins after chugging too much water. Weighing players immediately before on-field workouts prevents any attempts at artificial weight gain.
Medical exams, which used to be completed in one day, are now broken up over the course of three days.
In years past, players would be awoken close to five in the morning to take a urine test, followed by medical exams. Teams would often order X-rays and/or MRIs during those initial exams, and players would be sent to a local hospital so the tests could be performed. That often turned into an ordeal that lasted almost 24 hours.
Even after team doctors completed their exams, players faced long waits at medical facilities for X-rays and MRIs. I know of several incidents where players who arose at 5 a.m. for their urine tests did not arrive back in their rooms until 3 a.m. the next day after completing all the required medical tests, a 22-hour day!
Now there’s an initial exam the day after players arrive in Indianapolis, tests such as MRIs the following day, and an orthopedic exam on the third day.
The fifth day at the combine is when players participate in on-field workouts, which include all the athletic testing and position drills after weigh-ins, as described above. In the past, workouts started early at 9 a.m. Yet since the league has sought to capitalize on marketing the combine, workouts have been pushed back to the afternoon, which players and their agents detest.
Agents have complained in recent years that starting workouts at 3 p.m. means players end up sitting around most of the day, doing nothing until it’s time to take the field at Lucas Oil Stadium. I’ve been privy to multiple conversations where agents will tell players to skip workouts, or a portion of them, if they do not feel 100% due to all the inactivity earlier in the day.
The final day consists of participating in the bench press early in the morning, then boarding a flight back to their homes in the afternoon. And for some, this is just part one of their combine experience. Players with injuries or those red-flagged with medical issues when first arriving in Indianapolis are asked to return for the combine medical recheck, which usually takes place the first week of April, so team doctors can re-examine them.
NFL Considering Significant Change to Officiating After Controversial Stefon Diggs Incident at Super Bowl LX
After a controversial moment involving New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs in Super Bowl LX, which reignited debate about missed calls and player safety, the NFL is weighing a major officiating shift. The NFL Competition Committee appears to be open to authorizing replay officials to throw flags for certain penalties – something that the league has never permitted before. Recently, NFL Insider Ian Rapoport reported that the committee is having a discussion on expanding the replay’s role, especially concerning player health and safety.
“Just my feeling is that it really feels like the NFL would rather eject a player during the game and say this is your penalty,’ rather than have him play and the next week suspend him,” Ian Rapoport said recently on The Insiders at the NFL Combine. “There is a lot that goes into suspension—there’s the appeal, there’s the public. Ejection is like, ‘You have been penalised; it is over.’ It seems that it’s a direction that the NFL wants to go. Used the word gateway; that really seems to be the way it’s going.”
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“The technology is getting better,” Rapoport added. “The camera angles, the use of AI. I mean, there are all sorts of tools that the NFL could now use to make the game better, say, but also better officiating. Seems like they are sort of wading into that water, going, ‘If you see it at home, we should be able to do something about it.’ And embracing sort of the future could be a pretty big topic.”
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For years, the league has firmly maintained that on-field officials control the game. While replay review and replay assist have expanded, NFL officials on the field still carry the final authority. Coaches can challenge calls, but the replay officials cannot independently throw flags. According to Rapoport, technological advancements are influencing the league’s thinking.
Some members of the NFL Competition Committee are reportedly rallying around a limited entry point: non-football acts that officials miss in real time. On February 23, NFL executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent addressed the topic during a break in committee meetings.
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“You don’t want to just be expanding Pandora’s box,” Vincent said. “But we believe that things like the non-football act, you can really, really restrict what that is. That’s something that we believe—that potentially there’s a little bit of tweaking in the language, and that may be the first step.”
NFL owners have historically resisted giving the league’s replay officials authority to throw flags, fearing it would undermine on-field referees, and Vincent himself acknowledged that concern.
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“That may be the first step in getting to putting flags on the field,” Vincent further added. “I just think in the era of legalized sports betting, just as a former player, I would’ve found it very difficult to be at Lincoln Financial [Field]; a big play occurred, nothing happened real-time in the stadium, and then all of a sudden, 10, 12 or 25 seconds later, before the ball snapped again, I see [a flag] on the field before the next snap. I don’t know.”
The hesitation from the NFL owners reflects a broader concern. Firstly, nearly every NFL play could include a minor infraction. If the NFL’s replay officials start reviewing plays for possible penalties, where does it stop?
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Secondly, NFL players, coaches and fans might not trust decisions that originate from ‘the eye in the sky’ instead of the officials standing just feet away from the action.
So, the NFL could try this officiating change first with one player safety foul. But Vincent also pointed out that with the officiating change, blatant acts of unsportsmanlike conduct, like with the Stefon Diggs incident, might face immediate consequences rather than postgame fines or suspensions.
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What was the incident involving Stefon Diggs that led the NFL to consider an officiating change?
In the fourth quarter of Super Bowl LX, Stefon Diggs ran a route near the right sideline of the field on a play in which he wasn’t even targeted. But after stepping out of bounds, Diggs absorbed a hard shove from Seattle Seahawks cornerback Josh Jobe, who drove him to the ground with force.
Then, Stefon Diggs quickly got up, confronted Jobe, grabbed his facemask, and began shouting. The situation escalated when Jobe appeared to have punched Diggs in the helmet, but Patriots wide receiver Mack Hollins and NFL officials rushed in to separate the players. Surprisingly, the NFL officials threw no penalty flag on the play, but the league later fined Jobe.
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However, the lack of an in-game penalty drew widespread criticism as replay footage clearly showed Jobe’s left-handed punch to Stefon Diggs’ helmet. Meanwhile, the cameras at that time focused more on Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel’s reaction to the non-call. If replay officials had authority to act, they could have assessed a penalty or even ejected Jobe on the spot, and that could have affected the outcome.
A similar officiating controversy unfolded in the first quarter of the Seahawks vs. the Los Angeles Rams Week 16 game when Seahawks linebacker Derick Hall stepped on Rams guard Kevin Dotson’s leg after a play. Dotson even injured his leg due to that incident, but NFL officials on the field missed the act, and the league only suspended Hall later for one game, citing unsportsmanlike conduct and unnecessary roughness.
These examples raise an obvious question: If the NFL ultimately disciplines players after reviewing tape, why not address the behaviour immediately during the game?
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But expanding replay authority carries risks as the NFL fears opening a floodgate that could eventually include hip-drop tackles, roughing the passer, facemask calls, and other penalties. And that would obviously alter how NFL games flow and how the referees operate.
Still, the NFL Competition Committee will continue discussions regarding the officiating change at the NFL Combine this week in Indianapolis. Any formal proposal would then require approval from the 32 teams at the annual meeting next month.
For now, the NFL’s replay assist can only determine whether a flag that was already thrown should stand, not whether a new penalty should be added.
National Reporter Confirms Colts’ Decision on Daniel Jones’ Future Amid Achilles Injury
The Indianapolis Colts signed Daniel Jones to a one-year, $14 million deal ahead of the 2025 campaign. Jones is now seeking a long-term extension. In that case, using the franchise tag could be a more cap-friendly route for Indianapolis. It would also keep Jones from reaching the open market. With all of that considered, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network provided an update Monday on Jones’ current contract situation with the Colts.
According to Pelissero, Daniel Jones and the Colts have begun discussions on a multi-year deal. There’s mutual interest on both sides to get a deal done.
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“It is a big week for the Colts and Daniel Jones, who’ve been in negotiations on a multi-year contract extension to keep him in Indianapolis,” Pelissero explained. “The sides, I would anticipate, meet face-to-face this week. Jones wants to stay here in Indianapolis. The Colts want to keep Jones, who was playing his best football before injuries last year.”
The 28-year-old opened the last season as the Colts’ starting quarterback and led the team for its first 13 games, posting an 8–5 record during that stretch.
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He beat out Anthony Richardson for that role and had Indianapolis firmly in the playoff hunt before his season came to an abrupt end with an injury setback. Apparently, Jones tore his Achilles tendon in Week 14 against the Jacksonville Jaguars, derailing both his season and the Colts’ run.
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Before he got hurt, Jones was having a career year with 3,101 passing yards and 19 touchdowns. His chemistry with Alec Pierce and star running back Jonathan Taylor helped the Colts start the season with a dominant 8-2 record.
This collapse showed just how much the team has relied on Jones, making this contract negotiation the biggest decision of the Colts’ offseason.
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The Colts’ coaching staff would like Daniel Jones to remain in Indianapolis.
Even though Daniel Jones is technically heading into free agency and could sign with any team, his heart seems to be staying right in Indianapolis. Despite his serious leg injury, he has spent his time helping rookie quarterback Riley Leonard and acting as a fully committed leader for the team’s success.
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His dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed by head coach Shane Steichen, who recently highlighted just how much work Jones is putting in behind the scenes:
“He’s in every meeting. He comes to every practice. He’s always around,” Steichen said. “On days he’s in the QB room, studying the tape, preparing, even though he’s not playing. Still going through everything. So, he’s still fully engaged.”
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When people asked why he’s working so hard while he can’t even play, Jones simply said, “It’s not like I’d be doing anything else.”
This attitude makes it clear that he wants to stay with the Colts for the long haul, and the team seems just as eager to keep him around. The only question left is how they will work out a new deal while he continues his long road to recovery.
NFL could be headed for four-game relationship with YouTube
Football fans better be ready to watch more games on YouTube in the future.
The platform is the favorite to land a four-game slate of regular-season contests that the NFL kept as part of an equity deal with ESPN, Sports Business Journal reported.
The report dubbed YouTube the “early leader” for the package, though there are still several parties reportedly interested in it.
The four games in the package were part of the recently greenlit deal between ESPN and the NFL that will see the former take ownership of NFL Network while the league gets a 10 percent stake in ESPN.
It wasn’t immediately clear what games would be part of the package, though one could envision that some of the league’s international games could end up on the digital platform.
“Beyond an international element, other games that could go to YouTube could be for exclusive windows elsewhere on the calendar, such as later in the season when streamers such as Peacock or ESPN+ have picked up games in the past,” Sports Business Journal wrote. “Other sources have told SBJ that the NFL could be interested in expanding its Black Friday slate, which has been a sole Prime Video game thus far.”
The slate of games would signal a growing relationship between the NFL and YouTube as digital platforms and streaming services become more prominent when it comes to the NFL’s media rights deals.
The NFL aired its first game on YouTube this past season when the Chargers and Chiefs played during Week 1 in Brazil.
The game drew an audience of 18.5 million viewers in the United States.
There were an additional 1.1 million fans who tuned in abroad to watch the Chargers defeat the Chiefs.
How To Watch, Key Dates & Players
The NFL turns its full attention toward the offseason this week with the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis kicking into high gear with player workouts from Thursday, February 26, through Sunday, March 1.
The combine, which officially runs from February 23 through March 2, begins its televised portion on Thursday as 319 NFL prospects lift weights, run, jump, throw, catch and throw passes and do interviews with teams ahead of the 2026 NFL draft on April 23-25 in Pittsburgh.
Before the draft, fortunes can be made and lost during the combine.
Here’s a look at everything you need to know to watch and follow the combine all 4 days
When: Thursday, February 26 to Sunday, March 1
Where: Lucas Oil Stadium (Indianapolis, Indiana)
TV: NFL Network
Thursday, February 26 (3 p.m. EST): Punters, Kickers, Defensive Line, Linebackers
Friday, February 27 (3 p.m. EST): Tight Ends, Defensive Backs
Saturday, February 28 ( 1 p.m. EST): Quarterbacks, Wide Receivers, Running Backs
Sunday, March 1 (1 p.m. EST): Offensive Line
What Everybody Wants To See: 40-Yard Dash
While there will be a lot of different things players are physically tested on — broad jump, vertical jump and 225-pound bench press reps to name a few — the star of the show has been and always will be the 40-yard dash.
It’s not totally fair to say the other parts of the testing don’t matter, but we can almost certainly say that regardless of what a player does in any other individual drill, test or interview, if they run a fast 40-yard dash time no one really cares about anything else.
The last 2 years, the top 2 finishers in the 40-yard dash have all been 1st round picks, including Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who set the NFL scouting combine record with a 4.21-second 40-yard dash in 2024
Here’s a look at the fastest 40-yard dash time at the combine over the last decade.
2025: Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky (4.28 seconds)
2024: Xavier Worthy, WR, Texas (4.21 seconds)
2023: DJ Turner, CB, Michigan (4.26 seconds)
2022: Kalon Barnes, CB, Baylor (4.23 seconds)
2021: Eric Stokes, CB, Georgia (4.31 seconds)
2020: Henry Ruggs, WR, Alabama (4.27 seconds)
2019: Zedrick Woods, S, Mississippi (4.29 seconds)
2018: Donte Jackson, CB, LSU (4.32 seconds)
2017: John Ross, WR, Washington (4.22 seconds)
2016: Keith Marshall, RB, Georgia (4.31 seconds)
Key Players To Watch at Scouting Combine
The NFL has put out its list of the 319 players that will attend the scouting combine, which includes Indiana quarterback Fernandon Mendoza, who is projected as the No. 1 overall pick to the Las Vegas Raiders.
While Mendoza won’t throw at the combine — he’s saving that for Indiana’s Pro Day — there are plenty of other storylines concerning the prospects.
Bleacher Report predicts Mississippi State wide receiver Brenen Thompson will clock the fastest 40-yard dash time — the Bulldogs were his 3rd college stop after previously playing for both Texas and Oklahoma.
NFL Analyst Gloats After Packers QBs’ Stellar Free Agent Ranking
The Green Bay Packers are set to have a free agency period that could heavily impact their near draft future.
Players like quarterback Malik Willis and left tackle Rasheed Walker are both projected to sign big free agent contracts in excess of $20 million/per year, per multiple cap aggregator sites like Over the Cap and Spotrac, whilst wide receiver Romeo Doubs and Quay Walker are also set to be free agents that could sign deals upwards of $10 million per year.
This would leave Green Bay with something approaching two third round, a fourth and a fifth rounder in compensatory picks in 2026, giving a huge boon to the Packers’ 2027 draft pick selection, particularly in light of the fact that they will not have a first round pick until April 2028 after trading back-to-back #1s to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for edge rusher Micah Parsons.
Certainly with regard to Willis that number could be far higher than many expected, as NFL.com ranked him as their #1 free agent of the 2026 class.
Orlovsky Claims Vindication After QB Ranked #1 Free Agent
NFL analyst and former quarterback, Dan Orlovsky had some gloating to do in light of this ranking – and took to X to vindicate his former opinion that Willis would receive $40-50 million this coming March.
“Got laughed at when I said 40-50 million months ago…” Orlovsky posted on X, replying to a post screenshotting Willis’ ranking as the #1 free agent.
Gregg Rosenthal compiled the original NFL.com list, and believes that Willis’ improvement as a passer and legitimate dual-threat ability makes him a quarterback with a sky-high ceiling in the NFL.
“I see him as the most dynamic quarterback in football as a runner, and his tape in Green Bay showed incredible growth as a passer over his two years with Matt LaFleur.” Rosenthal wrote on Monday. “Despite his limited sample size, Willis jumped to the top spot of this ranking based on the same logic that applies to the NFL draft: If a potential franchise quarterback is good enough to be ranked in the top five of a list like this, then he should be placed first, by virtue of the position. The ceiling is the roof.”
How Much Will Malik Willis Be Paid This Offseason?
At this point no one quite has an answer to this question, but estimates vary substantially. Orlovsky is clearly sticking to his answer of $40-50 million, which is implied to mean his average annual salary, but could also be the amount of guaranteed money Orlovsky expects him to receive.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport suggested the number may be closer to $30-35 million per year, a valuation that is echoed by Spotrac; and in theory this makes a bit more sense as it aligns more-or-less with Sam Darnold’s three year $100 million deal.
Darnold had more starting experience and had accomplished far more than Willis had prior to his last deal, which has worked out pretty well for all involved, but Willis would appear to have a far higher ceiling if he replicate some of the performances he showed against the Bears and the Ravens this past season in place of the injured Jordan Love.
$40-50 million might be a stretch, but it seems that Willis will not come cheap to any team this offseason.
Blues coaches balancing present, future in final 25 games
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How would the Avalanche have fared at the Winter Olympics?
Six of the Colorado Avalanche players returned home from the 2026 Winter Olympics with a medal, but what if it were 25?
It’s a question that is impossible to answer, but fun to contemplate: How would the Avs, the NHL’s top team at the Olympic break, fare against the top national teams if they had been allowed to enter the tournament?
We asked a handful of the Avs players. Here’s the scenario: the eight Olympians from Colorado play for the Avs, and those countries get to replace them with alternates. Let’s replace France, which wouldn’t have been in the tournament had Russia been allowed to compete, with the Avalanche.
How would they fare?
“I think we’d do pretty good,” said Avs captain Gabe Landeskog, one of the eight Olympians who competed in the tournament. “There’s some pretty good teams over there, no doubt about it. I think what this tournament has shown is that there’s no easy games. All of the teams are super competitive. Everybody is just very proud to go compete for their countries.
“But I think if the Avs showed up, we’d do alright. We’d hold our own.”
Club teams playing against national teams can be a fun debate in soccer, another sport with a global talent pool. The general consensus is that top club teams like Arsenal, Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona would likely defeat most, if not all, of the top national sides. Even a club like Tottenham, currently 16th in the Premier League standings, would likely be able to beat most of the teams at the 2026 World Cup that aren’t among the contenders to win the tournament.
One of the arguments is talent. The top club teams are filled with players who are the stars of their country’s national teams. But a big part of it is the continuity and chemistry that comes from practicing and playing together for nine months a year.
National teams in soccer play a fraction of the games together every year, and only the ones in tournaments actually replicate the speed and intensity of a critical league match. In hockey, the national teams spend even less time together.
Canada, Finland, Sweden and the United States had the 4 Nations tournament last year, but those groups have only practiced a handful of times together over the past two years.
“I think we’d do pretty well, honestly,” Avs goaltender Scott Wedgewood said. “I think we have the advantage of our team system. We have some top guys – eight guys that made the Olympics. There were teams that didn’t have that many NHL players, so that’s in your favor. I think we’d have a chance of medaling, for sure.”
Canada would need to replace Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar and Devon Toews. Finland would need replacements for Artturi Lehkonen and Joel Kiviranta. Sweden would need a replacement for Landeskog, the United States for Brock Nelson and Czechia for Martin Necas.
All five of the top teams would be slightly weaker, though Canada and the U.S. have all-star level options at their disposal. The other three countries do not.
Necas was Czechia’s best player. Lehkonen scored two massive goals for the Finns, which is just what he does.
The Avs would have more NHL star power than the other six teams in the tournament.
“I think it would be kind of what we’ve seen — close games,” Wedgewood said. “I don’t think anyone runs away from us. I think we’d be like Sweden, be like Finland – be battling in a game and hockey is hockey.
“I think the top three teams in the league could probably do the same thing. I think each team might have a chance. I think the Olympic squads have star power throughout their lineups, but then the NHL teams get their go-to checking lines that can wreak havoc.”
Josh Manson pointed out two reasons why the Avs could do well — Valeri Nichushkin and the goaltenders. Russia is currently not allowed to compete in international tournaments because of the country’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, so Manson’s reasoning was that teams with great Russians would have an advantage. Mackenzie Blackwood and Wedgewood were two of the top candidates to be on Canada’s roster in net, and just missed out.
Tampa Bay would have Nikita Kucherov and Andrei Vasilevskiy. Dallas would neuter Finland by taking back Mikko Rantanen, Miro Heiskanen, Roope Hintz and Esa Lindell, plus Jake Oettinger in net.
Wedgewood is right — the Avs are probably right there with Finland and Sweden as the next-best teams behind the two current titans of the sport.
Could the Avalanche defeat Canada or the United States in a seven-game series? Almost certainly not. But, as we saw during an incredible Olympic tournament, a good goaltending performance and some strong defensive work can turn any individual game.
“I feel like we’d do pretty well. It would be hard,” Avs forward Ross Colton said. “When you watch, all of those teams have so much skill but aren’t as structured. Obviously, Canada and the U.S. have the best players in the world, but I guess we’d probably be more structured. I would think they could be good games.
“I have no idea, but we’re not going to get dominated. I think we could compete for sure.”
Olympic boost? Five NHL players who could surge, including golden goal scorer Jack Hughes
Could a strong Olympics provide a boost to players when the NHL season restarts Wednesday?
St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington took off after another international tournament in 2025. After starring at the 4 Nations Face-Off, he returned to NHL action and went 13-3-1 with a .910 save percentage, helping power St. Louis into the playoffs.
Here are five players who could similarly carry momentum from this international tournament back to their NHL clubs:
Forward Jack Hughes, New Jersey Devils
The golden goal scorer himself, Hughes has had an up-and-down season. He missed 18 games with an off-ice injury to his hand. Then he came back and only scored two goals in 19 games as the Devils labored to an 8-10-1 record.
Hughes isn’t an elite goal scorer — he has one 40-plus-goal season in the NHL — but over the past three seasons, he has scored at a rate of 34 goals per 82 games. His real magic trick is his ability to create around him with his speed and vision.
Hughes started on the Americans’ fourth line at the Olympics before earning a promotion. He rewarded the coaching staff’s faith with seven points in six games and the golden goal.
Goaltender Jacob Markstrom, New Jersey Devils
Sticking with the New Jersey Devils, Markstrom had a nice tournament for Sweden. The Swedes’ goal differential resulted in them getting a tough draw against the Americans in the quarterfinal round, where Sweden lost 2-1 in overtime. Markstrom stopped 38 of 40 shots in the elimination loss.
At the Olympics, he went 2-1-0 with a .936 save percentage and a 1.97 goals-against average. The Devils need Hughes and Markstrom to play up to tournament form to have a shot at a playoff spot.
Goaltender Juuse Saros, Nashville Predators
The Finnish netminder got better as the Olympics went along. The Finns didn’t lose another game in regulation after getting blown out by Slovakia in the opening game of group play, and then beat the Slovaks for the bronze medal.
Saros powered that effort with a .940 save percentage and 1.66 goals-against average that rivaled Connor Hellebuyck’s numbers for the U.S. Saros has labored for the Predators much of the season, particularly since the calendar flipped to 2026. In the run-up to the Olympics since Jan. 1, he was a respectable 6-5-2 but with a nasty .881 save percentage.
Forward Dalibor Dvorsky, St. Louis Blues
The No. 2 center for Slovakia is a rising prospect who is trying to establish himself as a full-time NHL center. Dvorsky, however, has just 15 points in 47 games and is underwater on every advanced possession metric.
Dvorsky was rock-solid for rising power Slovakia as its second-line pivot, scoring six points (three goals and three assists) in six games. The Blues have been a mess all season, but getting a strong finish from a critical young player would provide the fan base with hope.
Winger Kaapo Kakko, Seattle Kraken
Kakko was strong in the defensive zone and neutral zone at the Olympics, which isn’t surprising. He contributed to Finland’s run to bronze, scoring five points in six games. Three of those points, however, came against host Italy, which has no NHL players. Kakko’s two-way game has bounced back some after last season, but he’s still only scoring at a rate of 12.3 goals per 82 games.
US women’s gold medal-winning team declines invitation from Trump to attend State of Union address
WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. women’s hockey gold medal-winning team has politely declined an invitation from President Donald Trump to attend his State of the Union address on Tuesday.
“We are sincerely grateful for the invitation extended to our gold medal–winning U.S. Women’s Hockey Team and deeply appreciate the recognition of their extraordinary achievement,” the U.S. women’s team said in a statement released Monday. “Due to the timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments following the Games, the athletes are unable to participate. They were honored to be included and are grateful for the acknowledgment.”
Blackhawks noticing Gavin McKenna’s rapid growth as 2026 NHL Draft creeps closer
Top 2026 NHL draft prospect Gavin McKenna has attracted a lot of attention over the last month, including from the Blackhawks.
First, there was the felony assault charge levied against the Penn State freshman winger — then dropped two days later — stemming from a Jan. 31 fight outside a college bar.
Then came McKenna’s eye-popping eight-point eruption Friday in an 11-4 win over Ohio State, which turned the spotlight back onto his on-ice surge.
The Yukon Territory native, who just turned 18 in December, now ranks second in the NCAA scoring race with 43 points in 28 games this season, including 25 points in 12 games since returning from the World Junior Championships in early January.
It sounds like the Hawks have noticed McKenna improving his all-around game. Although they were skeptical about him earlier this season, that’s no longer the case.
Plus, the felony charge is unlikely to affect his NHL draft stock now that it has been dropped. (He is still facing a misdemeanor charge, but his hearing has been delayed and Penn State has not issued any internal discipline.)
There has never been any doubt about McKenna’s giftedness offensively, which explains why he entered the season as the projected No. 1 overall pick and why his highlight reels tend to woo online fans quickly.
His best attributes are his fantastic hands. He can mold the puck with his stick like a bowl on a potter’s wheel. He controls it effortlessly, making slight movements to keep it away from opponents before getting it to the perfect angle for the next motion.
He combines that with excellent vision, play-reading, elusiveness and creativity. He’s primarily a pass-first guy. Thirty of his 43 points this season are assists, as were 88 of his ridiculous 129 points (in 56 games) in the WHL last season.
However, McKenna disappointed many scouts and lost his status as the projected No. 1 pick this fall due to inconsistent work ethic and effort levels, particularly defensively and on the backcheck.
Like many teenage prospects, he needs to gain weight and strength — he’s listed at 6-0 and 170 pounds — but he was also allowing himself to get pushed around and forced to the perimeter more easily than he should’ve been. The adjustment from junior to college hockey proved more difficult for him than expected.
As time has gone on, he has grown considerably, showcasing a more mature defensive game and learning how to physically match up against older, bigger opponents. It doesn’t hurt that he’s outscoring his weaknesses to an even greater degree now, too.
The Hawks have heavily valued work ethic in draft decisions throughout general manager Kyle Davidson’s tenure, so McKenna’s growth in that regard suddenly makes him a viable fit for him again. And the biggest missing piece from the Hawks’ future core is one more dynamic offensive winger, and he would certainly check that box.
There’s still much left to be determined before the 2026 draft takes place in late June, though, both in terms of McKenna’s progression and the Hawks’ draft pick. If the season ended today, they would have only a 15.2% chance of winning the lottery for a top-two pick and much higher odds of picking sixth or seventh.
Swedish forward Ivar Stenberg, another frontrunner to be the No. 1 pick, continues to play extremely well against pros overseas. He has avoided controversies and has been more well-rounded than McKenna from the start.
Meanwhile, Latvian defenseman Alberts Smits was sublime as a teenager in the Olympics, pushing himself into conversation for top defenseman in the class alongside Keaton Verhoeff and Chase Reid.
The Hawks have also long been interested in Canadian center Tynan Lawrence, and his lack of production since a midseason move to Boston University should be taken with a grain of salt considering BU’s bizarre team-wide struggles.
San Jose Sharks forward stuck in New York as snowstorm hammers northeast
SAN JOSE – Sharks forwards Alex Wennberg and Philipp Kurashev returned to practice on Monday after their respective Olympic experiences, and center Macklin Celebrini will likely soon be back in San Jose after he competed for Team Canada in the gold medal game in Milan.
The return of another Sharks Olympian to San Jose, though, has hit a snag, as coach Ryan Warsofsky said winger Pavol Regenda — as of early Monday afternoon — remained stuck in New York City due to the massive snowstorm that has pounded the northeast.
Regenda and the Slovakian team faced Team Finland in the bronze medal game in Milan on Saturday, losing 6-1. Celebrini and the Canadians lost 2-1 in overtime to the United States on Sunday.
After Regenda went to New York, the Canadian team, like the Americans, flew to Miami to avoid the storm that, as of early Monday afternoon, had dropped nearly 20 inches of snow in Central Park.
It was unclear if or when Celebrini or Regenda would practice before the Sharks’ home game on Thursday against the Calgary Flames. The snowstorm was supposed to begin tapering off in New York City by late Monday.
Considering how big a role Celebrini had with the Canadians, logging heavy minutes on the top line throughout the Olympic tournament, including Sunday, Warsofsky added that the Sharks’ No. 1 center would likely not need to practice.
“I’ll talk to him and see how he’s feeling,” Warsofsky said of Celebrini, the Sharks’ leading scorer with 81 points in 55 games. “But if he doesn’t practice, it’s not the end of the world.”
Wennberg and Kurashev’s teams were both eliminated from the Olympics in the quarterfinals last Wednesday in 3-on-3 overtime. Wennberg and Sweden lost 2-1 to the U.S., and Kurashev’s Switzerland team lost 3-2 to Finland.
“Disappointed result for the Swedes. We were expecting to fight a little longer than we did,” Wennberg said. “Obviously, we played a good team in the U.S., but overall, it was a great experience. What a tournament. The whole experience with the best-on-best. But right now, it’s still a bit bitter.”
OVERTIMES SINK SHARKS
Overall, three of the four quarterfinals and the gold medal game were decided in 3-on-3 overtime, a method used in the NHL to determine a winner during the regular season, but not in the playoffs. In the NHL postseason, teams play 5-on-5 until a goal is scored.
Wennberg, Kurashev, and Celebrini all saw their gold medal dreams end during 3-on-3 overtime. Wennberg and Kurashev would have preferred to play it out NHL-style, but also acknowledged that the rules are the same for every team.
“A 3-on-3, it’s like it’s a 50-50,” Wennberg said. “There are so many skilled players, so obviously, you trade chances a little bit more. I feel like that game is more up for grabs. Maybe if you do 4-on-4, 5-on-5, it’s going to take a little bit longer, more structured, and maybe a different result.”
“I think it would be cooler or better if it were 5-on-5, but we could have won the game the same way they did,” Kurashev said. “So it’s not like it’s an advantage for someone else.”
PROUD AMERICAN
Warsofsky said he and his son got up to watch Sunday’s game, which began at 5 a.m. Pacific time, and felt an enormous amount of pride in the Americans’ thrilling victory.
Warsofsky has a close connection to Mike Sullivan, coach of the U.S. team, knows some of the players on the roster, and coached the Americans to the gold medal at last year’s IIHF World Championship in Sweden.
“It’s just awesome,” Warsofsky said. “It’s great for hockey. It’s great for our country. I’m extremely proud to be an American and watch those guys.”
The last time the Americans won Olympic gold in men’s hockey was in 1980 in Lake Placid, as the Miracle on Ice team upset the Soviet Union and Finland to capture gold.
“What I think is so great about it is we’re going to see another evolution and change of how many people want to play hockey because of that game, just that one game,” Warsofsky said. “There’ll be kids out there that want to grab a hockey stick and skates, and hopefully that’s in San Jose and all around the country.”
DELLANDREA SKATES
Ty Dellandrea skated in a tracksuit briefly before the start of Monday’s practice, but a return to the active roster is not imminent, with coach Ryan Warsofsky saying last week that the centerman remains week to week.
Dellandrea sustained a lower-body injury in the Sharks’ Jan. 6 home game against Columbus, as he crashed legs-first into the post — after he was tripped — as he took the puck to the Blue Jackets’ net.
Dellandrea has 11 points in 42 games for the Sharks this season and has become one of the team’s faceoff leaders and top penalty-killing forwards.
REAVES ACTIVATED
Winger Ryan Reaves was activated off injured reserve on Monday, a day after center Filip Bystedt was returned to the Barracuda. Reaves had an upper-body ailment and was placed on IR before the Sharks played the Colorado Avalanche on Feb. 4.
Reaves skated on the Sharks’ fourth line Monday with center Adam Gaudette and forward Barclay Goodrow. With Celebrini still on his way back to San Jose, Zack Ostapchuk centered the first line with Will Smith and Kiefer Sherwood on the wings.
US women’s hockey team declines Trump’s State of Union invitation
WASHINGTON — The gold-medal-winning U.S. women’s hockey team has politely declined an invitation from President Donald Trump to attend his State of the Union address Tuesday.
“We are sincerely grateful for the invitation extended to our gold-medal-winning U.S. Women’s Hockey Team and deeply appreciate the recognition of their extraordinary achievement,” the team said in a statement released Monday. “Due to the timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments following the Games, the athletes are unable to participate. They were honored to be included and are grateful for the acknowledgment.”
Trump also invited the gold-medal-winning U.S. men’s team.
Scheduling will be a challenge as the NHL regular season resumes with five games Wednesday and the PWHL resumes Thursday.
Logistics played a role in the decision, as many of the women’s players were not scheduled to arrive in North America until Monday evening. The men’s team flew by charter to Miami earlier Monday. The women took a commercial flight and were scheduled to land in Atlanta.
A person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press that the women’s players didn’t learn of the invitation until late Sunday, making it difficult to change their travel plans. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about the team’s travel plans.
The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the status of both teams.
When extending the invitation to the men’s team Sunday night, Trump said, “I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team, you do know that.” Trump joked that if he did not also invite the women’s team, “I do believe I probably would be impeached.”
The Olympic tournament featured two thrilling finals, both ending in overtime, with the American women beating Canada 2-1 in the gold-medal game Thursday and the U.S. men beating Canada 2-1 on Sunday.
“It’s been a whirlwind. It’s been amazing. It’s a dream of ours. It was such an amazing way to unite the country,” Matthew Tkachuk of the U.S. men’s team said after arriving in Miami.
“We felt the support being across the Atlantic, and now being back on home soil we could feel it the second the wheels hit the ground. So excited to be back in the greatest country in the world and so excited to celebrate.”
Tkachuk said it was an honor to hear from Trump after the win, “and so we are definitely honored to represent him and the millions and millions across the country.”
Vice President JD Vance attended two of the U.S. women’s preliminary-round wins with his family during the first week of the Games.
AP’s Stephen Whyno, Charles Odum in Atlanta and Freida Frisaro in Miami contributed.
‘I’ve got goosebumps’: Utah Mammoth’s Americans react to Team USA winning gold
In case you somehow hadn’t heard yet, Team USA pulled off a historic overtime victory over Team Canada to secure the country’s first Olympic gold medal in men’s hockey since 1980.
Later that day, we got the reactions of most of the Utah Mammoth’s American players.
As always, Nate Schmidt was the most animated.
“It was amazing,” he said. “I’ve got goosebumps. It was so amazing. I was blessed, and I made sure to put on Sweet Home Alabama when I walked in this morning.”
He said he had some buddies in town visiting who skipped their flight home to be able to watch the end of the game.
Ian Cole was impressed by the Hughes family, whom he knows both through Michigan connections and from playing with Quinn on the Vancouver Canucks.
“For Quinn to score the OT winner (against Sweden in the quarterfinal) and then Jack to score (the OT winner in the gold medal game) … Couldn’t be happier for them and for the whole team.”
“Play Free Bird, baby,” added Nick DeSimone.
DeSimone recalls the inspiration he took from the 2010 Olympics — even though Team USA lost — as well as TJ Oshie’s shootout performance in 2014. This game is sure to influence plenty of young Americans to follow in those footsteps.
“(It’s) stuff you won’t forget,” he said. “It’s a core hockey memory for me, so for kids watching that today, maybe (it’s) another one for them.”
Schmidt echoed a similar sentiment.
“They said it a lot during the broadcast, talking about how the 1980 team inspired a generation of players, right? Me included. It gives me goosebumps thinking this is going to inspire the next generation of kids to understand that this is what the pinnacle looks like,” he said.
Logan Cooley, who has one medal of each color from the various international tournaments in which he has participated, talked about the closeness that USA Hockey players have with each other.
“Just like all the players were saying after they won, just the brotherhood (stands out). You know, it just seems like they came together so close, the way they battled for each other,” he said. “It was cool to see and unbelievable to cap it off with a gold medal.”
And speaking of young Americans who will be inspired by that game, Cooley is one of them.
“As a competitor, you want to be in those big games,” he said. “You want to be representing your country on a world stage like that. You know, it’s so fun watching, but I couldn’t imagine being able to play in a gold medal game (at) the Olympics. … I’m going to work as hard as I can to eventually make that team.”
Clayton Keller, the lone Mammoth representative on the team, has not yet returned to Utah, but he gave his thoughts postgame in an interview with KSL Sports.
“It’s an unbelievable feeling,” he said. “It’s a dream come true and to share it with this group of guys, it was just so much fun and I’m so lucky and blessed to be a part of this team and to have this experience — something we’ll remember for the rest of our lives.”
Blizzard Keeping NHL Players from Rejoining Teams
Apparently, nobody informed the weather gods that NHL games will resume this week after the Olympic break.
Harsh conditions are pummeling the East Coast this week, with Winter Storm Hernando being categorized as a bomb cyclone by The Weather Channel. Thirty million people are under blizzard warnings, according to CNN. That means travel bans are in place for both land and air as snow and wind impact more than five states.
It’s a heck of a time for the NHL to return from its February hiatus.
The 2025-26 schedule is set to resume on Wednesday on both coasts. But with travel suspended on the Eastern seaboard, will players be able to rejoin their teams in time for opening faceoffs?
Uncertainty for NHL Players on Team USA
TSN’s Darren Dreger posted to the X platform early Monday to say there was concern over when players on Team USA would rejoin their teams following their 2-1 overtime win against Team Canada on Sunday. Dreger’s initial report revolved around players wanting to accept an invitation to the White House on Tuesday, although the weather may be an even bigger issue.
Travel already caused the team’s plane to be rerouted to Florida to avoid the blizzard. That’s not-so-bad news for Team USA captain Auston Matthews, who is expected to rejoin the Toronto Maple Leafs in Tampa on Wednesday to face the Lightning.
NHLers traveling West? It’s a whole other story.
The Las Vegas Review-Journal reported Monday that the Vegas Golden Knights don’t know when Jack Eichel and Noah Hanifin will rejoin the team. The Knights visit the Los Angeles Kings on Wednesday, and nationwide travel delays could still loom large.
Unknowns for Olympians on Other NHL Teams
Speaking of the Golden Knights’ tilt with the Kings, even more NHL players could be delayed returning from the Olympics. Vegas could be the most impacted, with Mitch Marner, Shea Theodore, and Mark Stone all representing Team Canada and potentially delayed by the weather. The Kings expect to have Adrian Kempe back on the ice after his Olympic journey with Team Sweden. However, LAKingsInsider.com reports it’s unclear if veteran defenseman Drew Doughty, who represented Team Canada, will be available.
Speaking of Team Canada: The San Jose Mercury News reported Monday that San Jose Sharks winger Pavol Regenda was stuck in New York due to the blizzard. (Regenda competed for Slovakia at the Winter Games. ) Center and first-time Team Canada representative Macklin Celebrini “will likely soon be back in San Jose,” although there was no diffiinitve time table.
With plenty of other NHLers still trying to make their way home, hockey fans will just have to keep an eye on when the weather will let them reunite with their teams.
NHL Representation at the 2026 Winter Olympics
The NHL returned to the Winter Games in 2026 after sitting out two consecutive Olympics. NHL players were kept off rosters for the 2018 Games in PyeongChang due to disagreements over costs between the NHL and the International Olympic Committee. Players from the NHL didn’t participate in the 2022 Winter Games in Beijing because of a league-wide COVID-19 outbreak.
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There was more than a gold medal on the line following Team USA’s overtime win over Canada in the 2026 Winter Olympics hockey final: new data shows the U.S.’ historic hockey victory also led to a spike in ticket sales for regular season hockey games online.
Team USA defeated Canada by a score of 2-1 after New Jersey Devils forward Jack Hughes slotted the winning goal home just over 90 seconds into sudden-death overtime. The golden goal secured the U.S. men’s first Olympic gold medal since the famous “Miracle on Ice” win over the Soviet Union at the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics.
Now, stats from ticketing site Gametime show ticket purchases for New Jersey Devils NHL games spiked “dramatically” in the hours following the gold medal game.
Gametime says transactions for National Hockey League tickets online were “more than 10x higher” than a typical day. The so-called “get-in price” for upcoming Devils’ games also “more than doubled,” per Gametime, with Wednesday’s game between New Jersey and the Buffalo Sabres showing a 127% price increase. “This kind of demand spike is typically reserved for playoff runs and championship celebrations,” notes Gametime on its blog.
The 2026 Olympics were officially a ratings bonanza, with NBCUniversal touting an average of more than 23 million viewers watching across NBC, Peacock, USA Network and CNBC during the two-week period. Hockey was among the biggest draws, with the U.S. women’s hockey team’s victory over Canada ranking as the most-watched women’s hockey game ever, attracing 5.3 million viewers across USA Network and Peacock. While ratings for the men’s gold medal match — which also saw the U.S. topple Canada — have yet to be released, it’s clear there’s a surge of new interest in the sport.
That’s not even taking into account the “Heated Rivalry” effect: ticketing site SeatGeek released data in January suggesting that the hit HBO Max show may have driven demand for hockey tickets, especially among new fans. According to SeatGeek, the average number of hockey tickets sold on its site increased by 24% during the week of “Heated Rivalry’s” buzzy season one finale in December.
The site also cited a 13% year-over-year increase in the share of solo ticket buyers. As SeatGeek says, “This trend aligns with anecdotal evidence that ‘Heated Rivalry’ may be pulling in new or more casual fans—people curious enough to check out a game on their own.”
You can find NHL tickets online on Ticketmaster, which is the Official Ticket Marketplace of the NHL. Can’t find the seats you want or looking to score a deal online? You can also buy NHL tickets online through third-party sites like SeatGeek, Gametime, StubHub and Vivid Seats.
The 2025-26 NHL season kicked off in October before the league took a mid-season break in February to allow players to complete in the Olympics. The league resumes play Feb. 25 as teams fight for a spot in the Stanley Cup playoffs in April. The Florida Panthers are the current Stanley Cup champions, having defeated the Edmonton Oilers last year.
The Professional Women’s Hockey League or PWHL, meantime, resumes play after the Olympics on Feb. 26. The eight-team women’s league features Boston, Minnesota, Montréal, New York, Ottawa, Toronto, Seattle and Vancouver. The current champions are the Minnesota Frost.
Tempers flare in Spurs-Pistons game in a matchup of 2 of NBA’s top teams
DETROIT (AP) — The San Antonio Spurs refused to let the Detroit Pistons rough them up, responding to physical play with toughness and talent, in a potential preview of the NBA Finals.
Victor Wembanyama had 21 points, 17 rebounds and six blocks, Devin Vassell scored 28 and San Antonio beat Detroit 114-103 on Monday night.
“It’s definitely a night where we confirmed progression and confirmed potential as well,
Grand jury declines to indict Patrick Beverley in assault case
A Fort Bend County (Texas) grand jury returned a no-bill Monday in the case involving former NBA guard Patrick Beverley, who was arrested last fall on a felony assault charge in what police called a
Kawhi Leonard, Clippers Under Scrutiny as Aspiration Controversy Gets Major Update Including Potential NBA Ban
The Clippers have gone through an upheaval with Chris Paul, James Harden, and Ivica Zubac. Their injury list that has Bradley Beal puts them on shaky footing. They hosted a glamorous All-Star Weekend and Kawhi Leonard was the surprise star of it. The team’s basically been on a typical regular season rollercoaster that we forget they’re facing a major shakeup. The blade from the Aspiration scandal still dangles over their heads. With the All-Star festivities officially over, NBA insider Tom Haberstroh suggests that the league is now entering a critical window where Adam Silver may finally “drop the hammer” on the LA Clippers.
The phase after the trade deadline and All-Star weekend is not only a critical stretch for teams to bolster their postseason chances. Right now, the commissioner’s office is on the clock. Months ago, analysts said that investigations into something like Pablo Torre’s expose can take an entire season. In that time, if the Clippers make a deep postseason run or even clinch a title, a major point gets made.
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That is the background that could factor into Silver’s decision on the Clippers, according to Haberstroh. “A forced sale would be quite the dramatic move by Adam Silver. I don’t suspect that is going to happen because Steve Ballmer is the richest owner in sports and he’s one of the richest owners in America,” Haberstroh noted, dismissing rumors that Ballmer could be forced out like his predecessor, Donald Sterling or even how Robert Sarver left the Phoenix Suns ownership.
After Ballmer hosted the All-Star Weekend at the Intuit Dome, Haberstroh claims its unlikely that the NBA will enforce the sale of the Clippers. He also underlined Ballmer’s personal friendship with Silver puts the commissioner in a difficult position. When Silver succeeded David Stern, one of the first things he did was revamp the Clippers organization in the post-Sterling era, and Ballmer was key to that.
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So Silver might have to get creative with the punishment. “Maybe it’s a case where Adam Silver levies some sort of punishments [sic], whether it’s forcing Kawhi Leonard’s contract to be invalidated.”
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And there’s precedent for this. Haberstroh pointed to when Stern invalidated Joe Smith’s Timberwolves contract in 2000. That could be a blueprint for the league to dismantle the Clippers’ current roster structure if the allegations of “no-show” corporate payments are proven.
Could Steve Ballmer be banned from his own arena
While he went viral for screaming on the microphone at the All-Star Game, some fans joked that it might be the last time he’s in the Intuit Dome. Whatever crystal ball told them that might be spot on.
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The investigation, sparked by investigative journalist Pablo Torre, alleges that the Clippers used the defunct startup, Aspiration, to funnel nearly $28 million in off-the-books payments to Kawhi Leonard. While the team remains in the play-in hunt, the threat of contract invalidation looms large. Haberstroh warns that voiding the contract of a six-time All-Star could backfire for the NBA.
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“The interesting thing on that is it provides a conundrum where I think if Kawhi Leonard is now a free agent, you’re going to see a frenzy for his services with the likes of the Lakers, … the Golden State Warriors, or the New York Knicks… That actually, I think, would create more hysteria and chaos around the league than actually forcing the Clippers’ hand.”
Beyond the roster, the “hammer” could strike Steve Ballmer personally. Despite his $145 billion net worth making fines irrelevant, Haberstroh suggests a more psychological penalty. “Banning Steve Ballmer from the arena, I think, would be the most hurtful in terms of punishing Steve Ballmer… If you’re essentially saying you can’t enter your own arena and sit courtside, I think that would be a huge hit to Steve Ballmer’s, ego.”
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The NBA has reportedly brought in a third party to pore over documents from Aspiration’s bankruptcy filings. Among the many things they would have to investigate is if Ballmer knowingly circumvented the cap rules.
As the playoffs inch closer, Adam Silver is under pressure to set an example for other teams. Even if it means benching the league’s most animated governor.
The Tank Race is About to Enter It’s Most Important Lap for the Chicago Bulls
Unlace those sneakers and do not stretch out a single hammy; the tank race is on!
Let me preface what I’m about to say with this: Coaches and players are never going to embrace tank talk, and rightfully so. Their job isn’t to go out there and think about ping pong balls. They are paid to win games, and we can’t fault them for having the mentality.
At the same time, no one off the court should feel bad for boarding the tank train. The fact of the matter is that the NBA currently rewards teams that are among the league’s worst. Until that system is changed (and it sounds like Adam Silver is reviewing different options as we speak), fans and front offices alike are going to view this as a team-building strategy.
Of course, the Bulls have refused to use this strategy for years, despite it likely being in their best interest. But that mentality seemingly changed at this year’s trade deadline. Arturas Karnisovas moved on from seven players in return for a haul of second-round picks and a couple of former Top 8 selections. Yes, they still added a few veterans into the mix, but rarely does a sell-off of that magnitude result in more wins. And we need to look no further than Chicago’s current 10-game losing streak to see just that.
The Bulls have already seen their lottery odds increase quite a bit since their explosive deadline. Previously sitting on the cusp of the Play-In Tournament, they have now been passed up by both the Hornets and Bucks. This has them sitting with the 9th-best odds at a Top 4 pick (20.3%) and the No. 1 overall selection (4.5%).
So, how much higher might their odds climb? Well, we’re going to have our answer soon enough.
Bulls Upcoming Schedule is Huge for Tank Rance
Speaking strictly from a lottery odds perspective, staying out of the Play-In Tournament is obviously essential. The good news is this shouldn’t prove too challenging for the Chicago Bulls, as they currently sit 3.0 games back of the Charlotte Hornets for the No. 10 spot. However, the Hornets do represent their next opponent, so a win for the Bulls would cut into that cushion.
Chicago will also have a potentially meaningful battle with Milwaukee only two games later. The Bucks have just a 1.5-game lead on the Bulls for the 11th seed. Considering how close these two have been in the standings for the last couple of months, there is a chance that a victory here for Chicago could have a big impact on the final standings come April.
Even more notable, however, are the looming matchups over the Memphis Grizzlies. A recent win over the Utah Jazz for the Grizzlies helped the Bulls gain some ground. Only 1.5 games now stand between the two, meaning the two upcoming games between the squads could likely have a substantial impact on the final standings. If Chicago ended up losing both, they could move into 8th and secure a 26.3 percent chance at a Top 4 pick and a 6.0 percent chance at the top spot.
Moving any higher than No. 8 might be out of the cards, as three full games stand between Chicago and Dallas at No. 7. But, hey, we’re also talking about a Bulls roster that has gone nearly a month without a win. The Mavericks at least have Cooper Flagg in the mix, who has only looked better and better as the season has gone on.
It might not end up mattering, but these two will face off in their final game of the regular season. While we may still be talking in hypotheticals, it’s not out of the question that lottery odds come down to that very contest. This sure would feel par for the course after a coin flip victory over the Bulls put Dallas in a position to win the 2025 lottery. *Bulls fans shiver*
Once again, I know talking like this can feel taboo. But the truth is that this is exactly what many people are going to be focusing on over the next handful of weeks. The 2026 NBA Draft is among the deepest in years, and we are only about a month away from having a very good idea of which franchises will be in a position to capitalize.
NBA Tank Tracker: Where Each Draft Lottery Team Stands in Race to the Bottom
Tank season is in full swing.
As the NBA heads into the fourth quarter of its regular season, contenders are jockeying for playoff positioning while the squads at the bottom of the standings play for the opposite: Fewer wins and more ping pong balls in the draft lottery. Tanking is a hot-button issue across the NBA, with commissioner Adam Silver’s recent acknowledgment that the hush-hush practice has reached never-before-seen levels.
The league recently levied six-figure fines to the Jazz and Pacers for “conduct detrimental to the league,” which came in the form of sitting top players and player participation policy violations. Silver plans to take action and enact anti-tanking rules by next season. He recently informed all 30 general managers of potential changes, like a freeze on lottery odds at a specific date, odds based on two-year records and expanding the draft lottery to include all play-in tournament teams.
Representatives from all 30 teams gathered on a Zoom call last week to discuss the tanking crisis. One top team executive told Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix that the call was an “idea gathering” exercise. While Silver appears committed to new anti-tanking rules, any potential changes to the current system are in their infancy. New anti-tanking rules or even a fully revitalized draft system could go in any direction, with plenty of work ahead and buy-in needed to enact change.
Since anti-tanking measures have yet to arrive, this year’s draft, headlined by Darryn Peterson of Kansas, BYU’s AJ Dybantsa and Duke’s Cameron Boozer, will follow the system we all know and love (to hate). And for the remainder of the regular season, teams that have already punted toward next year and beyond will look to put themselves in the best possible position for May’s NBA draft lottery. Just not too obviously.
Here’s where the race to the bottom currently stands as we verge on March:
Current NBA draft lottery standings and odds
Each of the NBA’s bottom-three teams will have a 14% chance at the No. 1 pick and a 52.1% chance of remaining in the top four picks. Although odds are the same at the bottom, there’s still an incentive to finish with the worst record. The team with the worst record can drop to the fifth pick, while the team with the third-worst record can fall as low as seven. Think of the prize for the worst record as an added cushion should the lottery go sideways and teams with lower odds jump ahead.
The worst five teams are within 4.5 games of each other, which means there is room for considerable movement as the regular season reaches its conclusion. The Pelicans controversially traded their unprotected 2026 first-round pick to the Hawks at last year’s draft to acquire standout rookie big man Derik Queen. Although New Orleans is near the bottom of the standings, it has no incentive to keep losing. Atlanta’s front office certainly hopes the deal results in a shiny pick at the top of the draft, however.
Similarly, Indiana made a lottery gamble at the deadline when the Pacers traded for star center Ivica Zubac. Without Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers have the second-worst record in the NBA. If the Pacers’ pick lands somewhere from No. 5 to No. 9, it would go to the Clippers. With Indiana in position to add an impact player at the top of the draft, the ping pong balls still need to bounce their way to ultimately keep the selection.
With plenty at stake over the final 25 or so games of each team’s season, here’s a look at the current lottery picture and pick odds based on where all teams in the mix currently sit. Check back as the season moves along for an up-to-date look at the latest lottery movement.
Records are as of Feb. 23, at the conclusion of all games, and pick odds are via Tankathon.
Remaining strength of schedule for lottery teams
Front offices looking toward the draft would rather have a more difficult schedule to stack losses and subsequently increase lottery odds. Don’t tell that to the players on the court, however. No matter the strange starting fives we might see down the final stretch, as key players on lowly teams are shut down, any group of NBA players plays to win.
Some players you’ll see over the last part of the season are on 10-day contracts, fighting for their jobs with the opportunity given. That said, the majority of teams in position for a top draft pick won’t have the personnel to win most nights.
Here’s a look at the remaining strength of schedule for all lottery teams. All data is according to Tankathon, and strength of schedule rankings include the entire NBA (yes, playoff teams, too). Remember, a higher strength of schedule—more games against strong teams and fewer “tank-offs” against fellow bottom-tier opponents—is good for lottery teams. For example, the last-place Kings have a particularly easy remaining schedule, while the Pacers have a much tougher schedule that’s more favorable for tanking.
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Tempers flare in Spurs-Pistons game in a matchup of 2 of NBA’s top teams
By LARRY LAGE
Associated Press
DETROIT — The San Antonio Spurs refused to let the Detroit Pistons rough them up, responding to physical play with toughness and talent, in a potential preview of the NBA Finals.
Victor Wembanyama had 21 points, 17 rebounds and six blocks, Devin Vassell scored 28 and San Antonio beat Detroit 114-103 on Monday night.
“It’s definitely a night where we confirmed progression and confirmed potential as well,” Wembanyama said. “That was a good test.”
The Spurs passed it — even with their superstar struggling with his shot.
Wembanyama was 6 of 16 and his teammates more than made up for it with Vassell making seven 3-pointers and three other teammates scoring in double figures. The Spurs combined to make 18 of 40 shots beyond the arc.
“We know how talented Wemby is and how impactful he can be, but it’s not a one-man show over there,” Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff said. “They have a bunch of talented perimeter players.”
The Spurs have won a season-high nine games in a row and trail only the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference.
The Eastern Conference-leading Pistons, who had won five straight, host Oklahoma City on Wednesday night in another opportunity to find out how they measure up against the league’s best teams.
“No matter who the opponent is, our guys are looking forward to those challenges,” Bickerstaff said.
Cade Cunningham ended up missing 21 of 26 shots and finishing with 16 points and 10 assists with Stephon Castle guarding him most of the game.
“I don’t know what the playoffs are like, but I know we’re going to need some of that,” said Wembanyama, who is in his third season with a franchise that hasn’t been in the postseason since 2019.
Detroit, meanwhile, is trying to take the next step this season by advancing in the playoffs for the first time since 2008.
The Pistons had one of the most remarkable turnarounds in league history last season and ended a 15-game losing streak in the playoffs in the first round against the New York Knicks, but they were eliminated.
Against the Spurs, tempers flared in the first half.
Cunningham was called for an offensive foul after extending his arms and knocking Castle down on the court. Spurs forward Keldon Johnson responded by pushing Cunningham and Pistons center Jalen Duren, who was recently suspended by the league, pointed his right finger in Johnson’s face.
“That sparked a lot of energy on our team because we’re not going to back down,” Castle said.
After a review, Johnson and Duren were called for technical fouls in the second quarter of the closely contested game.
The NBA suspended center Isaiah Stewart for seven games earlier this month after he left the bench during a fight in Detroit’s game at Charlotte, and he was still serving the suspension during San Antonio’s visit. Duren was forced to sit for two games for initiating the altercation.
Wembanyama said Detroit plays “bully ball,” and added that he was glad to experience its physical style.
“This is probably the team that is most capable of playing that ball,” he said.
The Spurs, it turns out, can handle themselves just fine against teams like the Pistons.
“They are going to test your toughness,” Spurs coach Mitch Johnson said. “Detroit just toes the line. I don’t think they cross it.”
___
NBA Rule Change May Seal Cade Cunningham’s MVP Case
The NBA’s 65-game minimum rule was designed to protect the integrity of major awards. Now, it may decide the MVP race. Under league guidelines, players must appear in at least 65 games to qualify for end-of-season honors, including MVP and All-NBA. With roughly a quarter of the season remaining, several frontrunners are walking a tightrope. Meanwhile, Detroit Pistons star point guard Cade Cunningham is not.
Cunningham has played in 49 of Detroit’s 55 games. That gives him an 11-game cushion before eligibility becomes a concern. According to projections from Tom Haberstroh, he is on pace to finish with 73 games. In an award race that now heavily rewards durability, that matters more than ever.
Cunningham’s Numbers Match Detroit’s Rise
Availability alone does not win MVP awards. However, Cunningham’s production fully supports the narrative.
He is averaging 25.7 points, 9.7 assists, and 5.7 rebounds while shooting 46.3 percent from the field. More importantly, he has powered the Detroit Pistons to a 42-13 record, percentage points ahead of the Oklahoma City Thunder for the best mark in the league.
Before the season, Detroit’s over/under sat at 46.5 wins. Now, they are on pace for 62. Certainly, head coach J.B. Bickerstaff deserves credit. Jalen Duren’s growth and Isaiah Stewart’s interior presence have also strengthened the roster. Even so, the Pistons do not resemble a typical 60-win superteam on paper. Therefore, Cunningham deserves the lion’s share of the credit.
He reinforced that case after a 42-point, 13-assist, eight-rebound performance in a 126-111 win over the New York Knicks.
Speaking to ESPN’s Vincent Goodwill after the big performance, Cunningham made his stance clear.
“I think I am [MVP],” Cunningham said. “And if you don’t agree with me, that’s your opinion.”
That statement was not a one-night reaction. Instead, it reflected a season-long résumé. At the forefront of his MVP campaign is his head coach, J.B. Bickerstaff, who has went out of his way to make the case for his young star point guard.
“I don’t think you pick an MVP based off, you know, just one game or one statement,” Bickerstaff told reporters after the win over the Knicks. “He’s been this way for the entire season. He’s dominated both ends of the floor and impacted winning in a major way.”
In other words, this is sustained excellence tied directly to team success.
Pistons DNA and Public Campaign Support
As Detroit continues to separate itself in the standings, respected voices around the league have started to campaign publicly.
In a recent discussion with The Athletic, leader of the “Bad Boys” and Detroit legend Isiah Thomas shared what he sees in this 2026 squad and the historical parallels between this team and his championship winning teams from the early 90s.
“They’re the one team in the NBA right now that is really playing a totally different brand of basketball than everyone else. They have gone back to what I would say the old Pistons DNA has been, defense, rebounding, shot blocking and taking good shots.
“It’s a formula that goes totally against the grain of the NBA, and it’s just like we did it in the 1980s and ’90s. When Cade sees Stewart and Duren open in the post, he actually throws them the ball. They try to score two points rather than always shooting 3s. The way I was taught the game, you want to put at least one point on the board every time down the court, and the Pistons play that way. That’s why the entire city of Detroit appreciates this team.”
Thomas’ endorsement strengthens Cunningham’s narrative. What started as a surprise run has now turned into a sustainable formula built on defense and discipline.
The 65-Game Rule Tightens the Race for Others
While Cunningham holds a cushion, several superstars face far less margin for error.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has played 49 of 60 games. He can miss only six more. However, an abdominal injury has already sidelined him multiple times, and timing now becomes critical.
Similarly, Luka Doncic projects to fall short of the threshold at his current pace. Meanwhile, Victor Wembanyama and Nikola Jokic also operate with razor-thin flexibility.
Therefore, availability is no longer a side note in this race. It is a deciding factor. Cunningham combines elite production, top-tier team success, and strong durability. As a result, his candidacy grows stronger each week the others flirt with ineligibility.
The Stretch Run Could Seal MVP Case
Detroit now enters a brutal stretch featuring the San Antonio Spurs, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Thunder. Over six games in ten days, the Pistons will face legitimate contenders.
If Cunningham sustains this level through that gauntlet, the narrative will shift from “emerging candidate” to clear frontrunner. Ultimately, the 65-game rule was meant to reward players who show up. Right now, Cade Cunningham is not only showing up, he is leading the best team in basketball.
Victor Wembanyama to Prompt Pay Cuts for Spurs Roster In Bold Prediction From NBA Icon
Three years into his career, Victor Wembanyama has continued to astound fans around the league. That combination of size, shooting, and shot-blocking continues to bend opposing game plans every night, and now, one former player believes we’re witnessing something that hasn’t existed in decades, as well as an upcoming uncertainty.
“Wemby is the best cheat code in the NBA since Wilt [Chamberlain], and if people think they can’t win it all,” Eddie A Johnson, 17-year veteran and 1989 Sixth Man of the Year, turned analyst, said. “They don’t get how this man impacts the game. Players will take major pay cuts to play with him soon!”
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The boldest part of Johnson’s statement wasn’t even the Wilt Chamberlain comparison, but the projection that veterans will eventually sacrifice money to play alongside Victor Wembanyama in San Antonio.
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That kind of pull is usually reserved for dynastic teams, like the 2016-2019 Golden State Warriors with amazing supporting casts, or the LeBron James led 2011-2014 Miami Heat. Wembanyama is still in the beginning of his career, which is exactly what makes the prediction so striking.
Most people know that the Spurs are still an extremely young team, with rookie Dylan Harper and sophomore Stephon Castle serving major rotation roles in the backcourt as they continue to grow. That, combined with Wembanyama continuing on his trajectory of elite defense with solid offense, might make Johnson’s take read more like an early warning instead of a hot take.
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The Spurs already look like a Western Conference powerhouse, and there’s still years ahead of them. Johnson’s take might end up coming true soon, and the path to success is already being built
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Is a New Free Agent Destination Emerging in San Antonio With Victor Wembanyama?
The initial comparison isn’t anything to scoff at either. Eddie Johnson is a respected analyst and voice online and in NBA circles, and invoking Chamberlain puts Victor Wembanyama in the highest historical tier possible.
Obviously, we all know that Chamberlain was the image of dominance: strategy-shifting level scoring to facilitate generational offensive prowess while also being an out-of-this-world defensive matchup. That’s where the “cheat code” comparison comes from.
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At 7’4″ with deadeye perimeter shooting, guard level mobility despite his size, and the single best rim protector in the NBA without comparison, Wembanyama causes opposing teams to rethink everything. He spaces the floor like a wing, deters more shots than nearly any defender, and has explosive stat lines almost nightly.
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“We’ve Got Clips”: Draymond Green Warns NBA Champion Over Warriors, Stephen Curry Remarks
Draymond Green and Kendrick Perkins are taking their beef to the next level after the Golden State Warriors veteran retaliated against the analyst. With Stephen Curry still at least three games away from his possible return, Perkins recently suggested that the Dubs should shut down Curry for the rest of the season. Perkins’ next shot was aimed at Green, suggesting that his mind was “definitely not on the game of basketball.” The floor general didn’t take it lying down and threatened to rewind certain videotapes.
“These guys need something to talk about every day, and so they made the biggest deal out of no deal,” Green said on his The Draymond Green Show. “So, going to the All-Star break, everybody is like ‘Oh my god! Draymond turned back the clock. Draymond played great.’ And then one game after the All-Star break, you have a rough game, and this guy goes, ‘I don’t know where his head at, but it ain’t on basketball.’ You are not allowed to have a bad game anymore!”
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The Warriors star further personalized his jab at the retired player who averaged 10+ points or 8+ rebounds just once in his career.
“I think it’s very interesting, needless to say, yeah, Perk, you never had bad games (laughs),” Green said. “Perk, we’ve seen you play big fella… We’ve got clips. We got clips of your screen setters, we got clips of your jump shots, Perk, we got clips of your jump hooks. You’re playing Big Perk. So careful, man! We could start pulling clips now, Big Perk.”
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Perkins has previously spoken about how he saw the darkness towards the end of his professional career. The 2008 champion fell out of the rotation with the New Orleans Pelicans and, despite signing with the Cleveland Cavaliers, retired after the 2018 season. During his second stint in Cleveland, he was assigned to the G League, where he actually did well in 27 games, but called it the “most humbling experience,” which put him “back in real life.”
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“I can promise you, Big Perk, I ain’t worried where you was at the end of yours,” Green said with a smirk.
While Perkins might have gone overboard suggesting that Green’s mind wasn’t in the game, the Warriors star’s struggles can’t be denied, and they’re scattered across his stat sheet.
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The Warriors must face the harsh reality about Draymond Green
In his last game against the Boston Celtics, Green went scoreless in 19 minutes. While those numbers shouldn’t define his season, it’s hard to deny that Green is in the midst of, to say the least, a bad season. He is putting up near career-low numbers on both ends of the floor in a decade. He is ranked 11th among his teammates in the plus/minus. While his 112.4 defensive rating (per 100 possessions) is not bad, it is the worst he has posted in his career.
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Green’s game usually drops in the absence of Stephen Curry, and this season, it has been alarming. In the past six games without Curry (absence due to runner’s knee), including five games leading into the All-Star break, the former DPOY posted a minus-67, the worst among his teammates.
“I’ve got to do a better job of helping Draymond,” head coach Steve Kerr said after the loss to the Celtics. “The game is so different without Steph. Those two guys have built such a rapport for 14 years now they’ve been playing together, and for sure in my 12, the two-man game with those two guys has been our bread and butter.”
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However, to say that Green and Curry’s pairing has remained consistent is also not true. Last season, their pairing generated an average net rating of 7.3 (per 100 possessions). This year, it has dropped significantly to 4.4. On the brighter side, it has remained positive. However, Green is also posting the second-worst turnovers (3.7) per 36 minutes of his career. The last time he averaged worse than this was in the 2021-22 season, when he played just 46 games.
Stephen Curry to Postpone Retirement Plans as 2028 Olympics Wish Surfaces: Report
The 2024 Paris Games were widely viewed as the final Olympic curtain call for the aging superstars LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry and most had accepted that. But for another section of the basketball world, The Chef’s Olympic debut could not be his Last Dance on the international stage. And for the first time, we get a big clue that Curry thinks the same.
NBA insider, Marc J. Spears reported that Stephen Curry is eyeing a second Olympic appearance for the 2028 Los Angeles games. Despite entering the twilight of his career, the Golden State Warriors’ icon appears unwilling to close the door on international competition, potentially pushing his retirement plans further into the future to anchor Team USA on home soil.
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Spears told NBA Today that the 37-year-old guard’s appetite for gold remains unsated. “Steph Curry is still interested to make his 2nd Olympic appearance. He’ll be 40 years old at the time. Look, he’s a shooter. He’s the greatest shooter of all time. Why would you not want to have him on your roster?… He’s not out, let’s just say that.”
If the chips fall where they may, Curry might reunite with Kevin Durant who also expressed strong interest in getting his fifth gold medal. While LeBron James has confirmed he will not participate in 2028, Curry’s lack of a definitive no could send ripples through the league.
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With a potential Curry and KD teamup in LA in less than two years, the ‘farewell’ narrative of the Paris games gets a plot twist.
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Could Stephen Curry fit in with the 2028 Team USA roster?
The path to 2028 will not be without physical hurdles. Curry is currently grappling with the realities of age and his injury prone history that has kept him out of the Team USA roster in the past. He currently remains sidelined through late February 2026 with patellofemoral pain syndrome, better known as runners knee.
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Though a recent MRI revealed no structural damage, Curry’s availability for both the Warriors’ playoff push and future Olympic cycles will depend on his body’s ability to recover from these lingering bone bruises. Right now, the Warriors have been operating with extreme caution regarding their superstar’s health.
The potential 2028 roster marks a significant era of transition for USA Basketball. With Erik Spoelstra officially succeeding Steve Kerr as the national team’s head coach through 2028, the team is expected to lean heavily on the next generation of talent. Players from the 2024 squad like Anthony Edwards, who recently claimed the 2026 All-Star Game MVP, and two-time Olympian Bam Adebayo are already being projected as locks for the squad.
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He could be joined by a core of established young stars including Tyrese Maxey, Cade Cunningham, and Tyrese Haliburton. All names floated around for the next generation of Team USA titans.
Irrespective of a young roster, the value of Curry’s gravity, and even Kevin Durant’s offense, on the floor remains unmatched. As international powerhouses like France, led by a prime Victor Wembanyama, and Serbia continue to close the gap, the presence of the NBA’s leading shooter of all time could be the stabilizing experience Spoelstra needs.
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MLS OPENER – Tiago’s strike not enough as Red Bulls Edge Orlando
In the 2026 Major League Soccer season opener for both teams, New York Red Bulls held on for a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Orlando City SC at Inter&Co Stadium, with Julian Hall’s early strike and resolute defending enough to withstand a late Lions fightback that culminated in Tiago’s dramatic 96th-minute consolation. The result reflected the Red Bulls’ superiority across large stretches of a contest that kept supporters on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
The tone was set inside eight minutes. Hall’s right-footed finish from close range guided to the center of the goal after a slick assist from Emil Forsberg. It was an early statement of intent from the visitors, who had clearly arrived with a plan and the confidence to execute it. Maxime Crépeau, Orlando’s new goalkeeper, had already been tested twice before Hall broke the deadlock — Jorge Ruvalcaba forcing a sharp stop in the 12th minute after being found by Adri Mehmeti, and again in the 27th minute when Ruvalcaba’s right-footed effort from the left side of the box was palmed away, this time with Forsberg providing the service.
Orlando pushed for an equalizer and had their moments. Marco Pasalic tested Ethan Horvath from outside the box in the 31st minute, with Tyrese Spicer providing the assist, but the Red Bulls goalkeeper stood firm. Then came the blow that effectively settled the contest: Julian Hall struck again in the 40th minute, rifling a right-footed shot from close range into the top left corner following a corner routine, with Adri Mehmeti delivering the assist. Two goals to the good at the break, New York had done the hard work and appeared in complete control.
The second half brought renewed pressure from Orlando, and Horvath was called into action repeatedly. Griffin Dorsey tested him in the 70th minute with a left-footed effort from the center of the box, only to be denied. The Lions pressed with increasing urgency as the clock wound down, with Martín Ojeda and Braian Ojeda both forcing blocks in a frantic spell around the 83rd minute. Substitute Tiago came agonizingly close before eventually finding the net — his header blocked in the 90th minute before, in the sixth minute of stoppage time, Tiago finally beat Horvath with a composed left-footed finish to the bottom left corner, assisted by fellow substitute Zakaria Taifi. It was a moment of quality, but it arrived too late to alter the outcome.
The statistics told the story of a match in which New York Red Bulls were the more dangerous side throughout. The Red Bulls outshot Orlando 22 to 17, and more tellingly, registered 13 shots on target compared to just six for the hosts. Possession was closely contested — New York edging it 52.2% to 47.8% — but the clinical edge belonged firmly to the visitors. The most remarkable number of the evening belonged to Crépeau, who made an extraordinary 11 saves. Without his heroics, the scoreline could have been far more damaging for Orlando.
The substitutions shaped the closing stages significantly. New York brought on Eric Choupo-Moting and Omar Valencia in the 75th minute, while Gustav Berggren replaced Mehmeti a minute later. Orlando responded by introducing Tiago for Spicer in the 76th minute and Taifi for Dorsey in the 86th — changes that ultimately produced the consolation goal but could not manufacture an equalizer. The tactical adjustments highlighted both teams’ desperation to control the match’s final chapter, though only the Red Bulls’ defensive organization held firm when it mattered most.
For Orlando, the defeat is a sobering start to their campaign, and the challenge now is recovering quickly. The Lions return to Inter&Co Stadium on March 1 when Inter Miami CF and Messi comes to town — a Florida Derby fixture that will carry extra weight after this result and demand an immediate response from Oscar Pareja’s side.
Son Heung-Min Net Worth 2026 – LAFC Salary, MLS Contract, Career Earnings & Endorsements
Son Heung-min’s Los Angeles FC returns to Major League Soccer this Feb. 21, hosting Lionel Messi ‘s Inter Miami.
Son, 33, will face his first full tournament in MLS after arriving at LAFC last summer and making an immediate impact. In half a season, Son scored 12 goals and provided three assists in 13 matches.
On the eve of the season start, it is a good time to review some key data about the Korean star.
What Is Son Heung-Min’s Salary at LAFC in 2026?
According to ESPN’s Jeff Carlisle, Son has a salary of $11.2 million annually with LAFC, being one of the only players, along with Messi, in MLS to exceed $10 million per year. As a reference, Messi earned $20.4 million in his previous contract with Inter Miami, according to the mentioned journalist.
Son Heung-Min’s Career Earnings & Endorsements
Son Heung-min has accumulated career earnings of around $74.6 million, including his salary at LAFC and the 9 million pounds he earned on average at Tottenham Hotspur from 2015 to 2025, according to Spotrac.
Son also has other endorsements besides his soccer career. The Korean is a global brand ambassador for Burberry (fashion), Tumi (luxury travel), Samsung, and Adidas.
Additionally, he has been a partner with brands like Gillette, Calvin Klein, AIA Singapore, and Gentle Monster. Leveraging his popularity in Asia, he has also had ties with regional brands like SK Telecom and Tiger Beer.
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Son’s net worth in 2026 is $100 million.
Takeaways from FC Cincinnati’s opening win over Atlanta United
FC Cincinnati defeated Atlanta United 2-0 in their Major League Soccer season opener.
Gerardo “Dado” Valenzuela played well after replacing the injured Evander in the 13th minute.
Defender Nick Hagglund scored the team’s second goal nine months after a serious injury against the same opponent.
The defense earned its second consecutive clean sheet in competitive play this season.
FC Cincinnati lost the Major League Soccer Supporters’ Shield by a point to Philadelphia last year.
So starting the new season with three points was welcome for the home fans after a 2-0 win over Atlanta United.
MLS investigating alleged video of Lionel Messi entering officials’ locker room
Major League Soccer is investigating allegations that Lionel Messi gained unauthorized access to the officials’ locker room following the match between Inter Miami and LAFC on Saturday at the LA Memorial Coliseum.
MLS was made aware of the incident after a video began circulating of the Inter Miami captain appearing to enter the referees’ premises momentarily.
Chris Rivett, Professional Referee Organization director of communications, however, confirmed to ESPN that Messi did not enter the officials’ locker room.
Messi cleared by MLS after review of post-match video
Feb 22 (Reuters) – Lionel Messi was cleared after a review by Major League Soccer determined that he did not violate any policy when he followed the match officials through a doorway following Inter Miami’s season-opening 3-0 defeat at LAFC, a league spokesperson said on Sunday.
MLS reviewed the incident, which occurred on Saturday and was captured on video, and determined the area Messi entered was not the referees’ locker room, nor was it a restricted area, and therefore no policy was violated, the spokesperson told Reuters.
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In the video, Inter Miami’s Luis Suarez is seen attempting to restrain Messi by the arm but the Argentine still managed to walk through the doorway in the bowels of the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum before re-emerging moments later.
The spokesperson said restricted areas at the venue would have had clear signage.
Inter Miami did not immediately respond when asked by Reuters for comment.
Defending champions Miami opened the season with a 3-0 loss in a game that drew 75,673 fans and was the highest-attended match in MLS opening weekend history.
MLS OPENER – Tiago’s strike not enough as Red Bulls Edge Orlando
In the 2026 Major League Soccer season opener for both teams, New York Red Bulls held on for a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Orlando City SC at Inter&Co Stadium, with Julian Hall’s early strike and resolute defending enough to withstand a late Lions fightback that culminated in Tiago’s dramatic 96th-minute consolation. The result reflected the Red Bulls’ superiority across large stretches of a contest that kept supporters on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
The tone was set inside eight minutes. Hall’s right-footed finish from close range guided to the center of the goal after a slick assist from Emil Forsberg. It was an early statement of intent from the visitors, who had clearly arrived with a plan and the confidence to execute it. Maxime Crépeau, Orlando’s new goalkeeper, had already been tested twice before Hall broke the deadlock — Jorge Ruvalcaba forcing a sharp stop in the 12th minute after being found by Adri Mehmeti, and again in the 27th minute when Ruvalcaba’s right-footed effort from the left side of the box was palmed away, this time with Forsberg providing the service.
Orlando pushed for an equalizer and had their moments. Marco Pasalic tested Ethan Horvath from outside the box in the 31st minute, with Tyrese Spicer providing the assist, but the Red Bulls goalkeeper stood firm. Then came the blow that effectively settled the contest: Julian Hall struck again in the 40th minute, rifling a right-footed shot from close range into the top left corner following a corner routine, with Adri Mehmeti delivering the assist. Two goals to the good at the break, New York had done the hard work and appeared in complete control.
The second half brought renewed pressure from Orlando, and Horvath was called into action repeatedly. Griffin Dorsey tested him in the 70th minute with a left-footed effort from the center of the box, only to be denied. The Lions pressed with increasing urgency as the clock wound down, with Martín Ojeda and Braian Ojeda both forcing blocks in a frantic spell around the 83rd minute. Substitute Tiago came agonizingly close before eventually finding the net — his header blocked in the 90th minute before, in the sixth minute of stoppage time, Tiago finally beat Horvath with a composed left-footed finish to the bottom left corner, assisted by fellow substitute Zakaria Taifi. It was a moment of quality, but it arrived too late to alter the outcome.
The statistics told the story of a match in which New York Red Bulls were the more dangerous side throughout. The Red Bulls outshot Orlando 22 to 17, and more tellingly, registered 13 shots on target compared to just six for the hosts. Possession was closely contested — New York edging it 52.2% to 47.8% — but the clinical edge belonged firmly to the visitors. The most remarkable number of the evening belonged to Crépeau, who made an extraordinary 11 saves. Without his heroics, the scoreline could have been far more damaging for Orlando.
The substitutions shaped the closing stages significantly. New York brought on Eric Choupo-Moting and Omar Valencia in the 75th minute, while Gustav Berggren replaced Mehmeti a minute later. Orlando responded by introducing Tiago for Spicer in the 76th minute and Taifi for Dorsey in the 86th — changes that ultimately produced the consolation goal but could not manufacture an equalizer. The tactical adjustments highlighted both teams’ desperation to control the match’s final chapter, though only the Red Bulls’ defensive organization held firm when it mattered most.
For Orlando, the defeat is a sobering start to their campaign, and the challenge now is recovering quickly. The Lions return to Inter&Co Stadium on March 1 when Inter Miami CF and Messi comes to town — a Florida Derby fixture that will carry extra weight after this result and demand an immediate response from Oscar Pareja’s side.
MLS will not discipline Lionel Messi for post-match actions
Lionel Messi did not violate Major League Soccer policy and will not face any form of punishment regarding a post-match incident involving referees on Saturday evening, according to an MLS spokesperson.
In a video which was posted by Sintesis Deportes, Inter Miami teammate Luis Suarez appears to attempt to prevent Messi from entering a room in the locker room area of Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Messi escapes Suarez’s grasp before reappearing eight seconds later, joining his teammates walking to their locker room.
The MLS spokesperson, however, told The Athletic that the door in the video was not to the referees’ locker room, and Messi did not enter a restricted area.
FC Cincinnati defender Matt Miazga was investigated and suspended three matches for
Can Africa’s footballers make an impact in MLS the way they have in the NWSL?
As the 2026 Major League Soccer season gets into action, ESPN looks at the new campaign to see what we can expect from the African players in MLS this year.
The offseason saw a number of new African signings from all over the continent, and it will be interesting to see how much of an impact the players make on the league, especially in comparison to the NWSL, where Africa’s women have dominated the past two seasons.
Golden Boot contenders in MLS
Denis Bouanga (LAFC, Gabon)
Twinkle-toed Bouanga may have struggled at the Africa Cup of Nations, where Gabon were eliminated in the first round, but his legacy in Major League Soccer is already secured.
The talented wideman has established himself as one of Africa’s greatest gifts to US football, having become a genuine MLS superstar since swapping Saint-Etienne for Los Angeles FC in 2022.
He’s won a swathe of silverware — including the MLS Cup and Supporters’ Shield in 2022, as well as the US Open Cup two years later — and has been LAFC’s top scorer for each of the last four years.
The 31-year-old has been one of the major protagonists in the building of the current Los Angeles franchise’s identity, and he has unfinished business at the club as well, having starred during the run to the CONCACAF Champions League final in 2023, where LAFC were ultimately defeated by Leon.
He’s currently the top scorer in this year’s edition of the continent’s top competition, and will look to balance success against the region’s finest defences with yet another 20+-goal season in Major League Soccer.
LAFC’s new-look strikeforce, with Bouanga partnering Son Heung-min, could be one of the most devastating the division has ever seen…if incoming head coach Marc Dos Santos can get the best out of the duo.
Denis Bouanga slots in the goal for LAFC
Denis Bouanga slots in the goal for LAFC
Kévin Denkey (FC Cincinnati, Togo)
The then-record MLS signing when he joined FC Cincinnati from Cercle Brugge for $16.2 million in November ’24, Denkey enjoyed an encouraging first season with FCC, scoring 15 goals across 29 appearances.
It was enough to fire his new employers to second in the Eastern Conference as well as the overall MLS standings, before they were ultimately undone by Inter Miami CF in the semis.
For context, Denkey’s full debut campaign surpassed the maiden season for all of Africa’s MLS greats with the sole exception of Bouanga, far eclipsing Kei Kamara, Dominic Oduro, Fanendo Adi, and Obafemi Martins.
And there’s still much more to come from the powerful, instinctive striker who, at 25, represents the new profile of the kinds of players who are being targeted by MLS clubs and attracted by the opportunities the league can present.
There’s a sense that there’s still much more to come from Denkey’s partnership with Evander, and if the pair can click, expect The Garys to be challenging for major honours.
Wilfried Zaha (Charlotte FC, Ivory Coast)
There were flashes of excellence from Zaha during his debut MLS campaign last season, with the 33-year-old averaging just under a goal every three games while still adapting to life in a new country and league.
His loan runs until July, meaning the attacker will still have the opportunity to impose himself during the opening months of the season, before returning to Galatasaray (or elsewhere).
With the World Cup on the horizon, Zaha will be aware that he needs to continue to prove his class after failing to make much of an impact for the Ivory Coast at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Zaha has been unabashedly himself since arriving in North Carolina – winning some admirers in the process – but having to adapt to a new environment, while also arriving at a team in transition, means MLS hasn’t seen the best of the ex-Crystal Palace man yet.
African wonderkids to watch
Manu Duah (San Diego FC, Ghana)
The No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft in December ’24, becoming the first ever draft pick for San Diego FC, 20-year-old Duah promptly began to establish himself as one of the most exciting young centrebacks in the States.
The Ghanaian impressed in college football with UC Santa Barbara, often playing in a midfield role, and adapted quickly to both MLS and the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Comfortable in possession, with attuned reading of the game, and excellent physical credentials, expect another year of growth under Mikey Varas.
Could he make a surprise late run into Ghana’s World Cup squad?
Rayan Elloumi (Vancouver Whitecaps, Tunisia)
Elloumi is another who could be a surprise inclusion at the World Cup if he starts the season strongly, although it remains to be seen whether his international future belongs to Tunisia, having represented the North Africans at U-23 level, or Canada, having featured for their B team earlier this year.
The 18-year-old signed his first professional contract in June, and netted his first MLS goal three months later, playing his part in the 7-0 demolition of Philadelphia Union. Sensational in MLS NEXT Pro, the talented forward could be the division’s breakout star in 2026.
Nimfasha Berchimas (Charlotte FC, Burundi-Tanzania)
Berchimas became the youngest player to score for the United States at the U-17 since wonderkid Freddy Adu 23 years ago when he netted in the 2023 tournament in South Korea, then aged only 15.
Since then, he’s progressed to the States’ U-20 team, while also taking his first steps as a professional in MLS, having cut his teeth with Charlotte’s NEXT Pro team, Crown Legacy.
The bright winger, who is eligible for both Burundi and Tanzania, has the potential to be the next big thing in Major League Soccer, although rumours of interest from Bayern Munich may yet lead to a transfer to Europe before the year is out.
New African signings to watch
Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire FC, South Africa)
South Africa head coach Hugo Broos may not have been impressed by Mbokazi’s decision to sign for Chicago Fire rather than move to Europe, infamously criticising the young defender in late 2025 in a headline-making outburst, although we believe that the 20-year-old can take his game to new heights in the States.
He caught the eye for Orlando Pirates after making his debut for the PSL heavyweights last year, and the Buccaneers are certainly struggling without him, having failed to replace the centreback’s pace, aerial ability and no-nonsense defensive approach in the backline.
Mbokazi has all the qualities to make Broos eat his words, although he must silence any suggestions that a lack of professionalism and focus are destined to hold him back.
Puso Dithejane (Chicago Fire FC, South Africa)
Signed by Fire alongside Mbokazi, although not as high-profile as his new teammate, Dithejane is another figure in the increasing South African presence in US soccer, with Olwethu Makhanya and Bongi Hlongwane among the other Mzansi stars set to feature in MLS this term.
21-year-old Dithejane, who made his South Africa debut in the 2023 COSAFA Cup, should bring explosive pace and direct dribbling to the Fire, while he also demonstrated his eye for goal while on loan at TS Galaxy.
Sekou Bangoura (Columbus Crew, Guinea)
The Crew parted with €1m to sign the Guinea international midfielder from Israel’s Kiryat Shmona in January, with Bangoura arriving as one of several notable signings for Henrik Rydstrom’s side.
The 23-year-old is a gamble — Crew are his sixth club since 2021, and he hasn’t yet settled anywhere to truly prove his credentials, although he now has an ideal opportunity to show what he can do.
A powerful box-to-box operator, can Bangoura replace the energy and dynamism that the Crew lost with the retirement of US international Darlington Nagbe?
Kai Trewin overcomes early bobble to look like natural in NYCFC debut
Kai Trewin, NYCFC’s newest first-team signing, impressed in his Major League Soccer debut. The Australian helped his team claw back from a one-goal deficit to earn a 1-1 draw against the Los Angeles Galaxy on Sunday night.
“The speed and the play here are really high, and it was definitely a step up for me,” Trewin said. “But I felt like I raised the level, and I really enjoyed the game.”
He started alongside Socceroo teammate Aiden O’Neill in front of the back four, and both acted as sweepers for NYC’s high press throughout the match. The pair played against each other whilst Trewin was at Brisbane Roar in the A-League, and shared the pitch for the national team.
“I played with him a few times before, but never next to him in midfield. And I really enjoyed today,” Trewin said. “I felt like we were able to connect quite well and help the team get back into the game after our slow start.”
He was not touch-tight to Marco Reus on the Galaxy’s opening goal, allowing the German to spin and find goalscorer João Klauss with a disguised back-heel pass.
Trewin grew into the game, though, after the first two minutes. He was always level with O’Neill when NYC drove forward. The Boys in Blue had the majority of possession during the match, which allowed both Aussies to sit 10 yards into the Galaxy half, stopping counterattacks before they had a chance to develop.
His one tackle won during the match was in exactly that space, and his heatmap showed he spent most of his time occupying the left-half channel in the midfield.
“When we talked about the game, the intensity was something [Trewin] really, really loved in his first experience in the MLS,” head coach Pascal Jansen said of his new midfielder.
However, it was not all rosy for the former Melbourne City midfielder. Trewin received a yellow card in the 56th minute after a lapse in concentration saw him jump out of the line he and O’Neill held to challenge Lucas Sanabria in the middle of the park.
The Uruguayan’s deft touch took the ball past Trewin, and NYC’s No. 5 went straight through him and into the referee’s books.
“He needs to be aware of the moments that, because playing aggressive and playing with pressure like he likes to do is one thing, but if you also have to be ready on your feet to make sure that you’re ready for players like Gabriel [Pec] or Justin Haak that can get by you with a single move,” Jansen noted after the match.
Yet Taylor Twellman, who was on the broadcast for the Sunday Night Soccer tie, said Trewin looked like a City Football Group player and has fit in seamlessly with the team. Melbourne City FC is just one of 13 men’s football teams they own, but the intense, high-pressing, front-foot style of soccer connects them all.
“There’s not too many things that I’m doing different,” Trewin said, “I feel like the way that we want to play here suits my game. I like being with the ball a lot, and when we don’t have the ball, I like to get a bit of a press on and try and win the ball up the pitch as high as possible.”
Only time will tell if NYCFC’s latest signing can have an impact on the squad as O’Neill did in his first season. But with Keaton Parks back from injury, and 18-year-old Jonny Shore, who Trewin was substituted off for in the closing stages, waiting in the wings, the onus is on Trewin to keep his starting spot.
How to Watch Major League Soccer Matches Online for Free
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The 2026 Major League Soccer season has arrived and kicked things off with a bang.
The first whistle blew on Saturday, Feb. 21, with a whopping 15 matches taking place over the course of opening weekend. Most notably, Lionel Messi and the reigning champs Inter Miami FC traveled across the country to face Los Angeles Football Club. With the away team serving as favorites, LAFC pulled off a major upset, defeating Inter Miami 3-0 in front of 75,673 fans inside Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. It was the second-highest attended MLS match ever.
For soccer fans who don’t want to miss any more on-pitch action this season, every Major League Soccer match will be available to stream with an Apple TV subscription. Unlike in previous seasons, MLS Season Pass will no longer be offered. Instead, the 2026 season will be available as part of your existing streaming plan at no extra cost. There will also be 34 games available on Fox or FS1 as well, which you can stream with DirecTV.
How to Watch 2026 MLS Season, At a Glance:
For the 2026 MLS regular season, all 30 teams in the league will play exactly 34 games, 17 home and 17 away. However, due to the upcoming FIFA World Cup in June and July, the season will be put on pause during those summer months. A couple notable dates to remember though: on July 29, the MLS All-Star Game will be played on Wednesday, July 29 in Charlotte; and on Saturday, November 7, the final day of the regular season, which is also dubbed “Decision Day 2026”, will ultimately decide who makes it into the Audi 2026 MLS Cup Playoffs.
Here’s everything you need to know about watching the 2026 MLS season online for free. Keep scrolling to learn more.
How to Watch the 2026 MLS Season Online for Free
There are three great streaming options for soccer fans to tune into the 2026 MLS season without paying dime. With Apple TV, DirecTV and Hulu + Live TV offering free trials, new subscribers can watch their favorite teams take the pitch without stressing over monthly and yearly payment plans.
Want to watch every 2026 Major League Soccer match? Apple TV has you covered. Along with exclusive programming, all MLS games are included with a subscription to the Apple streamer. You can get a monthly subscription to Apple TV for $12.99/mo or snag an annual plan for $99. If you can’t decide, soccer fans can also use Apple TV’s 7-day free trial to stream your favorite MLS matches for free and without committing to a plan. After the trial period, users can cancel their subscription at anytime.
With Apple TV, users also gain access to hit shows like Pluribus, Severance, and Hijacks, plus the entire MLS season, MLB games and F1 races later this year.
A subscription to DirecTV — which comes with Fox — gets you access to live TV, local and cable channels, starting at $59.99 for the first two months of service ($69.99 per month). The service even offers a five-day free trial to watch for free if you sign up now.
You can watch local networks such as FOX and ABC, while you can watch many of the best sports networks, including ESPN, FOX Sports, NFL Network, NBA TV, NHL Network, Big Ten Network, TNT Sports, The Golf Channel, USA Network and many others.
Get the most content options including the option to watch FOX and FS1 with Hulu + Live TV. Not only will you get more than 95 live TV channels, but access to the entire Hulu library including exclusive content, originals and programming from FX and ABC. A regular subscription price starts at $89.99 per month.
Hulu offers music programming and documentaries, such as Summer of Soul, It’s All Country, Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band and others. It even livestreams of popular music festivals, like Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, iHeartRadio Festival, iHeartCountry Festival and Austin City Limits Music Fest.
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.”
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.”
colored boards replace dark ones in the hockey arenas at the Olympics
MILAN (AP) — The hockey arenas at the Milan Cortina Olympics got a new look as the knockout round of the men’s tournament got underway Tuesday.
The boards encasing the rinks are now light blue and green after the NHL and the NHL Players’ Association made the case to the International Olympic Committee to make a change from the dark color during the preliminary round.
Players talked to the league and union about the boards after each team’s first practice in Milan.
U.S. goaltender Jeremy Swayman lost sight of the puck in the boards and the stands during his one round-robin game in net against Denmark. Swayman joked he was color-blind, so it didn’t matter to him.
“It was a flash screen and it was just the perfect height right between the stands and board level, and I truly lost it,” Swayman said after the 6-3 win. “It’s something all of us always have to face, and we play in different arenas every night in the NHL, so this is just one, another one, and it’s a challenge that we have to embrace.”
___
AP Winter Olympics: https://apnews.com/hub/milan-cortina-2026-winter-olympics
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Bruce Springsteen and E Street Band to launch US tour
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Bruce Springsteen is bringing his pointed political commentary back to American stages this spring.
The rock icon and the E Street Band announced Tuesday the launch of their “Land of Hope and Dreams” American tour starting March 31 in Minneapolis, kicking off a 20-date run that blends arena rock with a message centered on democracy, freedom and what Springsteen calls the defense of the American ideal. The tour concludes May 27 with an outdoor performance at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.
“We are living through dark, disturbing and dangerous times, but do not despair — the cavalry is coming!” Springsteen said in a statement. “We will be rocking your town in celebration and in defense of America — American democracy, American freedom, our American Constitution and our sacred American dream.”
Last month, Springsteen dedicated his song “Streets of Minneapolis” to the people of Minneapolis, criticizing President Donald Trump’s ongoing immigration enforcement operations in the city.
“It’s dedicated to the people of Minneapolis, our innocent immigrant neighbors and in memory of Alex Pretti and Renee Good,” he wrote, naming the two people who were fatally shot by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis.
The upcoming shows mark Springsteen and the E Street Band’s first performances in North America since 2024. In 2025, they played to more than 700,000 fans across Europe on the initial leg of the “Land of Hope and Dreams” tour and released a live EP recorded on opening night in Manchester, England.
Springsteen has increasingly leaned into political themes during recent performances. On last year’s European tour, he told audiences that the band was calling upon “the righteous power of art, of music, of rock ’n’ roll, in dangerous times.”
The E Street Band lineup includes Roy Bittan, Nils Lofgren, Patti Scialfa, Garry Tallent, Stevie Van Zandt and Max Weinberg, along with Soozie Tyrell, Jake Clemons and Charlie Giordano. They will be joined by the E Street Horns, the E Street Choir and percussionist Anthony Almonte.
Bruce Springsteen and E Street Band to launch ‘Land of Hope and Dreams’ US tour next month
LOS ANGELES – Bruce Springsteen is bringing his pointed political commentary back to American stages this spring.
The rock icon and the E Street Band announced Tuesday the launch of their “Land of Hope and Dreams” American tour starting March 31 in Minneapolis, kicking off a 20-date run that blends arena rock with a message centered on democracy, freedom and what Springsteen calls the defense of the American ideal. The tour concludes May 27 with an outdoor performance at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.
“We are living through dark, disturbing and dangerous times, but do not despair — the cavalry is coming!” Springsteen said in a statement. “We will be rocking your town in celebration and in defense of America — American democracy, American freedom, our American Constitution and our sacred American dream.”
Last month, Springsteen dedicated his song “Streets of Minneapolis” to the people of Minneapolis, criticizing President Donald Trump’s ongoing immigration enforcement operations in the city.
“It’s dedicated to the people of Minneapolis, our innocent immigrant neighbors and in memory of Alex Pretti and Renee Good,” he wrote, naming the two people who were fatally shot by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis.
The upcoming shows mark Springsteen and the E Street Band’s first performances in North America since 2024. In 2025, they played to more than 700,000 fans across Europe on the initial leg of the “Land of Hope and Dreams” tour and released a live EP recorded on opening night in Manchester, England.
Springsteen has increasingly leaned into political themes during recent performances. On last year’s European tour, he told audiences that the band was calling upon “the righteous power of art, of music, of rock ’n’ roll, in dangerous times.”
The E Street Band lineup includes Roy Bittan, Nils Lofgren, Patti Scialfa, Garry Tallent, Stevie Van Zandt and Max Weinberg, along with Soozie Tyrell, Jake Clemons and Charlie Giordano. They will be joined by the E Street Horns, the E Street Choir and percussionist Anthony Almonte.
E Street Band Hits U.S. Arenas In The Spring
Bruce Springsteen used to tell a story about a particular post-9/11 encounter when he was in alone in a parking lot and someone yelled, “We need you now!” That, the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer said, was the impetus for his 2002 album The Rising.
Fast-forward a generation, and that phrase has a whole new meaning. And Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band will lead up to America’s Semiquincentennial on the road.
The Boss on Tuesday posted a video on Instagram announcing a two-month, 20-date U.S. jaunt launching March 31 in, of course, Minneapolis. The Land of Hope & Dreams American Tour will stretch through late May and play arenas across the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave — save for a closing-night stadium show at Nationals Park in the nation’s capital.
“We are living through dark, disturbing and dangerous times, but do not despair — the cavalry is coming,” Springsteen says in the clip (watch it below). “We will be rocking your town in celebration and in defense of America — American democracy, American freedom, our American Constitution and our sacred American Dream — all of which are under attack by our wannabe king and his rogue government in Washington, D.C. Everyone, regardless of where you stand or what you believe in, is welcome, so come on out and join the United Free Republic of E Street Nation for an American spring of rock ‘n’ rebellion.”
The tour will hit Los Angeles for two nights at the Kia Forum on April 7 and 9 and play New York City’s Madison Square Garden on May 11 and 16. It also will stop in metro markets including Portland, OR — another city rife with protests against immigration roundups — San Francisco, Chicago, Atlanta and Philadelphia. The full itinerary is below.
The always-political Springsteen made headlines last month when he released “Streets of Minneapolis,” a biting, haunting song dedicated to the memory of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, who were shot to death during separate anti-ICE protests in the Minnesota city in January. Watch the video here:
RELATED: Bruce Springsteen Excoriates ICE’s “Gestapo Tactics,” Dedicates Song To Renee Good During Surprise New Jersey Performance
Springsteen has been beefing with Donald Trump and his administration, again, in recent weeks, months and years. But that’s nothing new. The political firebrand has been vocal about his opposition to government shenanigans for more than half a century. This tour promises much of the same. Tickets go on sale Friday.
Here is the full schedule for the Land of Hope & Dreams American Tour:
Gilbert Arenas blasts NBA, players over Mac McClung Dunk Contest absence
The Slam Dunk Contest has lost its shine over the years, and 2026 didn’t do much to change that narrative. Like recent seasons, this year’s All-Star event was missing the star power that used to make it appointment viewing.
The lineup featured younger talents still working to establish themselves in the league, with names like Jase Richardson, Carter Bryant and Keshad Johnson taking center stage.
Three-time All-Star Gilbert Arenas had a different idea about how to generate interest. He argued that bringing back Mac McClung would have injected some much-needed energy into the competition, though that suggestion didn’t land well with everyone.
Gilbert Arenas claims NBA Stars forced Mac McClung out
During a recent
Bruce Springsteen and E Street Band to launch US tour next month
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Bruce Springsteen is bringing his pointed political commentary back to American stages this spring.
The rock icon and the E Street Band announced Tuesday the launch of their “Land of Hope and Dreams” American tour starting March 31 in Minneapolis, kicking off a 20-date run that blends arena rock with a message centered on democracy, freedom and what Springsteen calls the defense of the American ideal. The tour concludes May 27 with an outdoor performance at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.
“We are living through dark, disturbing and dangerous times, but do not despair — the cavalry is coming!” Springsteen said in a statement. “We will be rocking your town in celebration and in defense of America — American democracy, American freedom, our American Constitution and our sacred American dream.”
Last month, Springsteen dedicated his song “Streets of Minneapolis” to the people of Minneapolis, criticizing President Donald Trump’s ongoing immigration enforcement operations in the city.
“It’s dedicated to the people of Minneapolis, our innocent immigrant neighbors and in memory of Alex Pretti and Renee Good,” he wrote, naming the two people who were fatally shot by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis.
The upcoming shows mark Springsteen and the E Street Band’s first performances in North America since 2024. In 2025, they played to more than 700,000 fans across Europe on the initial leg of the “Land of Hope and Dreams” tour and released a live EP recorded on opening night in Manchester, England.
Springsteen has increasingly leaned into political themes during recent performances. On last year’s European tour, he told audiences that the band was calling upon “the righteous power of art, of music, of rock ’n’ roll, in dangerous times.”
The E Street Band lineup includes Roy Bittan, Nils Lofgren, Patti Scialfa, Garry Tallent, Stevie Van Zandt and Max Weinberg, along with Soozie Tyrell, Jake Clemons and Charlie Giordano. They will be joined by the E Street Horns, the E Street Choir and percussionist Anthony Almonte.
Megan Moroney is on ‘Cloud 9’ after meteoric rise to fame
NASHVILLE – Megan Moroney sits on a leopard chaise in a bubble gum pink house. The sunlight from the window pours onto her shoulders.
Stars Steal the Spotlight in the Crowd at Illinois’ Win Over USC
There were stars in the house at the Galen Center to see the USC Trojans take on the No. 10 Illinois Fighting Illini on Wednesday night. In attendance were former NBA All-Stars Gilbert Arenas and Peja Stojakovic. Both of them had sons’ playing in the game.
Gilbert Arenas, Peja Stojakovic in Attendance
Gilbert Arenas is the dad of USC freshman guard Alijah Arenas. Gilbert was a guard in the NBA from 2001-2012. He was named an all-star three times and was named to three All-NBA teams. His son, Alijah, was a five-star high school recruit and signed with the Trojans as a member of their 2025 recruiting class.
Alijah missed the start of the season due to a torn meniscus but was able to make his long awaited USC debut in late January. In eight games played this season, he has averaged 14.5 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.5 assists.
Peja Stojakovic was a forward in the NBA from 1998-2011. Stojakovic was a three-time all-star, won two there-point contests, and is a 2011 NBA champion. He is the dad of Illinois guard Andrej Stojakovic.
Andrej is in his third collegiate season, all of which have been at different schools. As a freshman in 2023-24, he played for the Stanford Cardinal before transferring that offseason to the rival California Golden Bears. After one season in Berkeley in 2024-25, Stojakovic entered the portal again. He transferred to Illinois.
This season, Andrej is averaging 14.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. The Illini have been one of the top teams in the Big Ten all season long and Stojakovic has been a big reason why.
MORE: USC Fans Will Love Makai Lemon’s Player Comparison Before the NFL Draft
MORE: What Lincoln Riley Said About New USC Defensive Tackles Coach Skyler Jones
MORE: The Biggest Question USC Faces at Running Back
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Illinois Dominates USC
On Wednesday night, Illinois showed that there is a massive gap between them and USC. The Fighting Illini went into Los Angeles and blew out USC by a final score of 101-65. Illinois improved their record to 22-5 on the season and 13-3 in Big Ten conference while USC dropped to 18-8 overall and 7-8 in the Big Ten.
Arenas played just 18 minutes and had eight points on 2/7 shooting from the field. Stojakovic had a game high 22 points off the bench on 6/7 shooting from the field and 9/9 shooting from the free throw line.
While Illinois still has an outside chance to win the Big Ten and earn a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament, USC is just trying to make it into the big dance. Prior to the game, the Trojans were right on the tournament bubble.
ESPN bracketogolist Joe Lunardi had the Trojans as the fifth to last team in the field of 68 and the last team in the field with a bye on the No. 11 seed line. The loss very well might have moved them down to the play-in game if not out of the field completely. USC’s next game is on Saturday, Feb. 21 vs. the Oregon Ducks.
NBA Legend Defends Karl-Anthony Towns Against Shaq & Charles Barkley’s Harsh Narrative
Karl-Anthony Towns, the self-proclaimed greatest big man shooter in the NBA, was recently subjected to intense criticism from Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley. Amid his lowest production season since his rookie year, they criticized him for his lack of aggression against the Detroit Pistons. Barkley even went to the extent of ‘carefully’ saying he “don’t know how to play basketball.” However, the New York Knicks star unexpectedly found support from another NBA legend.
“What we think KAT seems soft is when he’s not getting the ball, he don’t demand that shit out loud publicly,” Arenas said. “That’s not his character. See, ’80s, if Shaq ain’t getting the ball, he’s trying to wring your neck in a locker room. Now, if Karl did that, then okay. But that’s not his personality. He’s not going to go at his teammates and stuff like that. So the game is different. The people are different.”
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Arenas has previously trolled the Knicks star, calling him “Sideshow Bob” and even making “girl’s legs” comments. However, the three-time NBA All-Star just clarified that his comments were never about Towns’ game, but about another factor.
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“I make fun of KAT because just the mannerisms, because that’s what I do, because I’m a troll,” the NBA legend added on The Gilbert Arenas Show. “But when it comes to just basketball, power forward or center, he has a claim. For the last 11 years, he has been top two, top three in his position every year. You can give him credit, or you don’t. He gets the wrong end of the stick because of just the mannerisms.”
Before the Knicks faced the Houston Rockets, O’Neal opened the segment by calling Towns out for “playing soft.” Barkley added to the severity of the criticism, saying he was particularly upset with Towns not running at smaller defenders in the post and settling for 3-point shots. However, recent incidents have brought a strange pattern to the fore.
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Gilbert Arenas appears to be biting his own words about Karl-Anthony Towns…
Karl-Anthony Towns has always been confident in his long-range shooting, and, to be fair to him, he is not just a great shooter at the big man’s position but one of the best outside shooters in the NBA. However, sometimes his over-reliance on that one skill takes the aggression out of the game.
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Two years ago, when the Minnesota Timberwolves met the Dallas Mavericks in the Conference Finals, Arenas wasn’t happy with Towns’ shot selection. While Arenas is now defending him against Barkley’s comments, the former Washington Wizards player has also criticized him similarly.
“I get 3-point shooting is good, but not f—— every game, man,” Arenas ranted back in 2024. “That s— ain’t cute… You have little guys on you, and you can’t properly post the f— up, that’s embarrassing.”
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To be fair to Towns, one player that Barkley referenced and heaped praise on was Nikola Jokic. Surprisingly, 39.8% of Towns’ shots are from 0-3 feet from the basket compared to Joker, who takes only 22.8% of them from the same distance. Which proves that the Knicks star shoots more around the rim than the Denver Nuggets big man. Yet there’s a difference in their net 3-point shooting volume this season: Towns averages 4.4 attempts per game, while Jokic averages 6.7.
Yes, Jokic might indeed be a better player than Towns overall, but shaming the Knicks star for not knowing how to hoop seems over the top.
Country star announces second Alabama show for 2026
An unorthodox country star is returning to an Alabama venue where he had to contend with lightning during a previous visit.
Jelly Roll announced dates for a “Little Ass Shed Tour” Monday. Among the 11 dates is stop at the Wharf Amphitheater in June. That makes him part of a growing spring-summer lineup at the venue, which has conspicuously big plans for Memorial Day weekend.
Jelly Roll’s “Little Ass Shed Tour” dates span from May 28 to July 22. They’re scattered among other dates, including the “Big Ass Stadium Tour” with Post Malone. As previously reported, that show comes to Birmingham’s Protective Stadium May 26.
The Wharf show takes place June 2. It will feature special guest Kashus Culpepper. General ticket sales begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27, through Ticketmaster.
The artist headlined a show at the Wharf Amphitheater in 2023. On that occasion, stormy weather forced a delay and the evacuation of the 10,000-seat venue. At the time, Jelly Roll said the experience was unprecedented in his career.
Other Wharf Amphitheater shows:
Friday, March 27: Bailey Zimmerman with special guests Hudson Westbrook and Blake Whiten
Saturday, May 23: HARDY with special guests Tucker Wetmore and McCoy Moore
Sunday, May 24: Godsmack with special guest Dorothy
Monday, May 25 (Memorial Day): The Dave Matthews Band
Wednesday, May 27: The Black Crowes and Whiskey Myers with special guests Southall
Saturday, June 6: Gary Allan and Tracy Lawrence with special guests Diamond Rio and Easton Corbin
Sunday, July 12: Train with special guests Barenaked Ladies and Matt Nathanson
Friday, July 17: Parker McCollum with special guests Vincent Mason and Jackson Wendell
Friday, July 24: Creed with special guests Mammoth and Hinder
Saturday, July 25: Luke Bryan with special guests Shane Profitt, Karley Scott Collings, Zach John King, and DJ Rock
Tuesday, Aug. 4: Toto with special guests Christopher Cross and The Romantics
Friday, Aug. 21: Goo Goo Dolls with special guests Neon Trees
Wednesday, Aug. 26: Jack Johnson with special guests Lake Street Dive
Sunday, Oct. 3: “Weird Al” Yankovic with special guest Puddles Pity Party
Carson Hocevar Embraces All-Offense Mindset Seeking Atlanta Redemption After Daytona Setback
After an enthralling Daytona Speedweek, all eyes are on Atlanta. As NASCAR fans shift their focus to the second race of the season, Carson Hocevar is a driver to watch. This is especially after he led the white flag and was so close to sealing the win at Daytona. Now, at the EchoPark Speedway, he is planning to shed all safety and go all-offense, something that was close but couldn’t work for him at Daytona.
Hocevar all set for Daytona redemption at Atlanta
In a recent interview with PRN Live on X, the Spire Motorsports driver shared his thoughts on the upcoming Autotrader 400 at the EchoPark Speedway. Prior to the race, the #77 driver said he would resort to aggressive moves to extract results at the track, known for its narrow and tight drafting, despite being a superspeedway.
“You just have to make moves. All offense. All offense,” Hocevar said. “You can’t just pull out by yourself at Daytona or Talladega. Like, you can’t just make a move all by yourself. Atlanta, you can. It reminds me of 2000s, bumpy Daytona, like watching it as a kid. Or not watching it as a kid, I wasn’t born.”
Following this, the Spire star took a trip down memory lane and reflected on how he used to enjoy watching races at Daytona back in the 2000s. Even though he could not race at the time, Hocevar wants to live his childhood dream by racing at Atlanta instead.
“But like, going back and re-watching it all the time, right? I live watching those races and am jealous I never got to race those type of super speedways. So Atlanta, I’m more so just living out a childhood dream of being able to race bumpy Daytona. So I’m just having fun with it and it works well perfectly for me,” Hocevar further added.
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Notably, Carson Hocevar’s outing at the Daytona 500 was an underwhelming one, especially given how he performed throughout the Daytona Speedweek. Having started his race in sixth place, the #77 driver went on to finish the first stage in fourth place.
However, he lost places in Stage 2 but he made a strong comeback to lead the race on the white flag. Unfortunately, he spun in Turn 1 and lost the lead, taking Erik Jones and Michael McDowell along with him.
With Daytona being in the past now, all eyes are on Atlanta, and Hocevar would want to maximize his chances. For this, the 23-year-old driver from Michigan would need to prepare himself for the 28-degree banking turn, but with barely 40 metres wide.
This brings in high-intensity drafting in tight corners, where drivers can only see 3 to 4 car lengths ahead in turns, making visibility difficult. This is something the #77 star needs to take care of at Atlanta, and avoid a situation like Daytona.
Carson Hocevar reflects on his Daytona disaster
Following the conclusion of the Daytona 500 at the Daytona International Speedway last weekend, Carson Hocevar looked back at his crash nearing the end of the race. While leading the race, Hocevar crashed in the last lap trying to defend his lead.
“I was trying to pick which lane to cover,” Hocevar said after the race. It just looked like the top had a huge run, and it was probably offset a little right. I don’t know if I didn’t commit all the way up, or if he just got me off-center, and it just hooked me into the wall, and then obviously I bounced off of it.”
Nearing the last lap, Hocevar and Erik Jones were jockeying for position when Jones hit Hocevar slightly off-center. As a result, the Spire Motorsports star lost control, tagged his teammate, Michael McDowell, and subsequently hit the wall.
As a result, Hocevar’s brilliant outing came to an unfortunate end. In the end, Tyler Reddick won the race ahead of Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Joey Logano.
NASCAR star Chase Elliott returns to Atlanta comfort at home track after Daytona 500 disappointment
After an emotionally draining and physically punishing Daytona 500 finish, Chase Elliott is back in his happy place — for the most part — this weekend at Echo Park Speedway.
NASCAR’s eight-time most popular driver lives about 80 miles from the track south of Atlanta, so the Dawsonville native can sleep in his own bed if he pleases.
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Kyle Busch Nabs Victory In Wild Finish Of Time
While it doesn’t reset the count on his career-long NASCAR Cup Series winless drought, Kyle Busch was able to grab a confidence-building victory on Saturday afternoon in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Fr8 Racing 208 at EchoPark Speedway.
Driving the No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado, Busch came out on top of a thrilling battle at the front of the pack in the closing laps of the race, which was shortened to 125 laps, 10 laps short of the scheduled distance, due to time constraints following a lengthy weather delay before the start of the race.
With frantic racing at the front of the pack, which saw the running order continue to shuffle throughout the closing laps, many contenders came and went, but there was a constant near the front, Busch, and his Spire Motorsports teammate, Carson Hocevar, who didn’t let anyone come between them.
Busch says early in the event, he had doubts as to whether Hocevar would work with him throughout the race, but as it became crunch time, he was pleased by the teamwork shown by the driver of the No. 77 machine, which secured a top-two finish for Spire Motorsports.
“Every F***ing Week”: NASCAR Drivers Gang Up on Rick Hendrick’s Prodigy After Diabolical Move
Just five laps into the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race at Atlanta, Corey Day triggered a massive wreck, leaving multiple cars damaged. The #17 driver tried to fit his nose into an opening, move up, and ended up triggering the wreck, all while battling for 10th.
The trigger not only took Day out of the race but also jeopardized Ryan Sieg, Kyle Sieg, Harrison Burton, and Blaine Perkins’ day. As a result of the wreck, multiple drivers shared their frustrations on Day.
Sieg, who was also contesting for the place, hit out at Rick Hendrick’s prodigy.
“Every f***ing week he’s an idiot. I don’t know why he’s in that car,” Sieg said. “He definitely needs to learn like you know, I mean a lot of a lot of them do. Just you gotta finish the race before you don’t, I mean you must finish before you can. I mean have a chance to win it. So they gotta learn that and unfortunately, we’re part of a frustrating situation.”
Austin Hill, the winner of the United Rentals 300 at the Daytona International Speedway last week, also shared his thoughts. He told his crew chief on the radio, “I saw that coming from a mile away. The 17 doesn’t know what he’s doing.”
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Corey Day of Hendrick Motorsports started the Bennett Transportation and Logistics 250 race from 9th, three places ahead of RSS Racing’s Ryan Sieg. Haas Factory Team’s Sam Mayer claimed the pole, ahead of Carson Kvapil of JR Motorsports and Taylor Gray of Joe Gibbs Racing.
As of Lap 38 of 163, Jesse Love of Richard Childress Racing was leading the race, ahead of Parker Retzlaff of Viking Motorsports and Taylor Gray of Joe Gibbs Racing. Day, however, returned to the track after nursing initial damage, and was running in 13th place.
Daniel Suarez Concedes to Roger Penske’s Empire as Phoenix Double Duty Puts NASCAR Pride on the Line
Daniel Suarez’s latest admission in NASCAR is surely going to upset a majority of fans, especially given how the Mexican driver conceded to IndyCar. Despite racing most of his career in stock car racing, Suarez put the Roger Penske-owned competition on top over its fiercest American rival, NASCAR.
In a recent interview, Suarez was asked to share his thoughts on the IndyCar-NASCAR races at Phoenix in March. Addressing the event, the Spire Motorsports driver expressed his appreciation and explained that the two motorsport competitions have different fan bases.
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“I think it’s an amazing opportunity,” Suarez said. “And I’m super excited to continue to explore these double duties or whatever you want to call it with IndyCar. Because IndyCar, I think, is an amazing series. I really, really love watching those guys. I have a couple good friends racing that series. And it’s fun.
“And I believe that actually the fan base that they have is quite different from NASCAR. I’m not saying that it’s better or worse. It’s just different.”
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Following this, the #7 driver explained how NASCAR and IndyCar are different sports, even though they have their roots in motorsports. While making the claim, Suarez stated that the speed of the IndyCar challengers will make Next Gen cars “running” like “bicycles.”
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“We are heavier. And we are more horsepower. It’s just different. It’s a different kind of racing, where we’re just more physical kind of racing. I mean, you know that. But IndyCars, they are super fast. They’re super, super fast, especially in ovals. But yeah, they are going to make us look like we are running bicycles. But it’s just completely different things. I mean, all over,” Suarez further added.
Notably, NASCAR and IndyCar are indeed different forms of motorsport. Even though they are based in the United States, as one is open-wheel racing, while the other is four-wheel stock car racing, they are functionally and structurally different.
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As a result of having more aerodynamic features and being open-wheel, the natural speed of IndyCar challengers is higher, often reaching about 230-240 mph. When compared against NASCAR, it is 190-200 mph.
Now, putting the comparisons aside, NASCAR and IndyCar are all set to shake hands in the first week of March at the Phoenix Raceway. This will be the open-wheel racing body’s first venture to the Arizona oval since 2018.
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Besides this, the double header at Indianapolis was also one of the most talked about Motorsports events. It, however, stopped after 2023 as the NASCAR Cup Series moved back to the 2.5-mile layout, something Team Penske driver Ryan Blaney missed dearly.
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Roger Penske’s star driver reminisces Indy days
Until 2023, NASCAR hosted its Cup and Xfinity Series races along with IndyCar’s Sonsio GP and the Indianapolis 500 together at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. During this time, Blaney would often visit Team Penske’s box during the Indianapolis 500 race.
“I loved when we had the doubleheader with them at Indy, just kind of being right there and going over and hanging out and watching practice in their box and stuff like that,” Blaney said. “It was cool, and I think it’s going to be fantastic.”
Notably, Ryan Blaney drives for Roger Penske’s team, Team Penske, an organization that fields teams both in NASCAR and IndyCar. With the Indianapolis 500 no longer in existence, all eyes will be on the Phoenix doubleheader in March this season.
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Penske, who owns IndyCar, Team Penske, also owns the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Worth over $3.8 billion, he is one of the most influential names in the world of motorsports.
HMS Called Out for “Terrible” Driving After Ruining Generational NASCAR Race Finish With Chaotic Red Flag
This was not the day Rick Hendrick hoped for. Just when the race was shaping up for a straight fight to the finish, it unraveled in turn three, and a lot of frustration quickly pointed toward Hendrick Motorsports.
The stack-up began in heavy traffic with just a handful of laps left. As the field compressed entering the corner, contact triggered a multi-car crash and collected several contenders.
And now William Byron finds himself in the middle of a giant storm. Contact impacted stacked cars quickly, leaving little room to escape on lap 241. William Byron and Joey Logano were among those caught in the initial chain reaction as cars checked up ahead of them.
Moreover, Austin Dillon and Austin Cindric were among those swept up as lanes closed and nowhere remained to escape.
The impact brought out the caution and ultimately a red flag for cleanup, wiping out what had been building toward a regulation finish. Instead of a clean run to the checkout, the race was pushed into overtime and fans weren’t shy about calling sequences terrible and blaming HMS for derailing what many felt could have been a generational ending.
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“Some terrible judgement calls on track today, Byron was definitely not clear to get to pit entry,” one fan wrote, pointing to what they felt was the critical miscalculation that triggered the stack up.
Another added, “That was shaping up to be SUCH a good finish, especially for my 23xi boys,” referencing Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick, especially the strong late race run from Wallace and Company before the caution erased that momentum.
Others did not hold back at all. “Hendrick has done their best to ruin everybody’s day,” one post read, while another quipped, “The Hendrick team meeting tomorrow needs to be ‘there are other drivers on the track.’”
Fair or not, the red flag in overtime reset shifted the narrative instantly, from a potential classic finish to a blame game centred squarely on HMS.
Inside the high-pressure plan to race IndyCars on DC’s streets
With just six days until the start of the INDYCAR season, preparations are accelerating for one of the most ambitious races in modern motorsports — a first-ever INDYCAR event on the streets of Washington, D.C.
The Indianapolis 500 has long carried the nickname “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,” but the summer street race set against D.C.’s iconic landmarks could rival that reputation — if organizers can pull it together on a compressed timeline.
RELATED | President Trump announces plans for IndyCar race through streets of DC
A Race Against the Clock
To understand what it takes to convert an urban environment into a professional racing venue, federal planners initially consulted Tony Leno, who has spent more than 22 years helping build the annual INDYCAR street race in St. Petersburg, Florida.
“Our contract here is about 70 days, but we’ve cut that down to a little less than 50,” Leno said. “And that’s after 22 years of doing it in practice. It seems pretty aggressive.”
That timeline, he says, only works because of decades of institutional experience — something D.C. doesn’t yet have.
“I’m hoping there was some behind-the-scenes planning that took place from the conversation last year,” Leno added. “Because it’s a pretty tight time frame to turn a track around.”
What the Public Never Sees
For race fans, the transformation can seem almost magical. For planners, it’s a massive logistical operation involving millions of moving parts.
“You have thousands of pieces, millions of pieces,” Leno explained. “Thousands of concrete barriers that can weigh 10,000 pounds each. On top of those, you have to install the catchment system and fencing.”
Those components don’t just appear overnight.
“They’re trucked in,” he said. “There’s specialized equipment — forklifts, handlers — assembling everything piece by piece. It’s modular, but it’s many, many truckloads of material.”
Safety Comes First
Beyond construction, safety approval is non-negotiable.
“All racing like INDYCAR and Formula 1 is controlled by a sanctioned body,” Leno said. “They have to inspect and approve those catchment systems for the safety of the drivers and the spectators.”
As race week approaches in St. Petersburg, Leno says his biggest variable isn’t construction — it’s weather.
“Rain is our biggest factor here in Florida,” he said. “In hotter seasons, the biggest challenge becomes worker safety. When you’re working in 90- to 97-degree heat, it’s pretty brutal.”
That’s a reality D.C. organizers may face as well, with August heat and humidity adding another layer of complexity.
A Model in Motion: Markham, Ontario
Washington’s race weekend will come just one week after the debut of another brand-new INDYCAR street race — in the city of Markham.
Mayor Frank Scarpitti says excitement in his city has been building for months.
“The Canadian Indy race is a bit of a tradition,” Scarpitti said. “It’s one of the oldest INDYCAR races, followed for generations. Kids have grown up watching this.”
Markham began planning early, even before contracts were finalized.
“We started the conversation back in January (2025),” Scarpitti said. “Once we understood the opportunity, we didn’t let go of it.”
That head start allowed the city to quietly design its 2.1-mile, 12-turn circuit — including a rare double pit lane — and begin construction well ahead of race week.
Streets, Surfaces, and Expectations
Street surface quality is another major concern for any city hosting its first race.
“It depends on the condition of the streets,” Leno said. “City streets have to have drainage, crosswalks, striping — all the things that make them functional every day. Those don’t disappear just because you’re racing.”
In Markham, that has meant removing existing asphalt and replacing it with a higher-grade racing surface, along with modifying curbs and repositioning light standards.
The Most Important Advice for D.C.
When asked what advice he would offer federal and city leaders in Washington, Leno didn’t hesitate.
“Stakeholder engagement. Talk to the community,” he said. “Hotels, restaurants, businesses, condo towers, residents. Explaining what’s happening is the biggest time consumer — and the most important part of my job.”
He emphasized that the disruption is often less than people expect.
“The track is only fully secured for about seven days,” Leno said. “That’s when the real road closures begin.”
As the INDYCAR season gets underway and the countdown continues, the success of D.C.’s race may hinge less on speed — and more on planning, communication, and execution under pressure.
Hendrick Motorsports Driver Owns Costly Late Atlanta Mistake After Racing With Damage
After winning the Cup title last year, Hendrick Motorsports hasn’t had the best start to a season in 2026. The Daytona 500 was the first disappointment with underwhelming results, and yesterday’s Atlanta race was even worse. It was particularly rough for one of their star drivers, who sits in the #24 Chevy, who not only suffered a blow towards the end but took several other contenders out with him.
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Hendrick Motorsports driver reacts to red flag-causing crash
William Byron had a strong race running, but got loose with four laps remaining in the race. He tried avoiding the oncoming traffic, but couldn’t. The red flag was soon out. Many pointed out a potential tire issue, but he recently proved otherwise.
“No, no, I actually had damage from the wreck before. So, the front end was kind of split a little bit and I just didn’t have as much grip. So, I was searching for air and got loose. So it was, it was on me, I just messed up.” Byron had the perfect way to escape the responsibility for the crash. But he revealed to the media that it wasn’t a tire issue that caused the wreck.
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It wouldn’t be wrong to call the race eventful. Denny Hamlin triggered a major wreck on lap 224, taking several cars with him. Byron seemingly escaped unscathed, but there was some damage to his car that affected his performance. This amplified when he attempted to draft later in the race, losing control and hitting the wall.
“I didn’t have any steering,” he added. “The further I got down the track, I just kept turning to the right. I didn’t have any steering. So I was just trying to get slowed down. I was hoping that I would just get back to pit road, but then I got clocked.”
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While he did not expect to win the race with the damage, the Hendrick Motorsports driver did expect to finish within the top five, as he further revealed. But his race ended with just three laps to go on the white flag.
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This has been Byron’s story this year so far. The HMS drivers haven’t had the best season start, and the team, including Byron, is struggling.
William Byron’s struggle
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For the past two seasons, William Byron has been the first driver to qualify for the playoffs. He won two consecutive Daytona 500s, and this was expected to be a three-peat. But he only finished in 12th place.
But the concern seems to be growing for Byron. He was a strong title contender last year, winning multiple races and making it up to the Championship 4. One of his best seasons, losing only one position in the final standings, came in 2024.
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With the Chase format returning this season, Byron was understood to be at an advantage because of how consistent he remained throughout the season last year. But so far, his performance hasn’t been very promising. He dropped to 13th place in the standings with his DNF at Atlanta. Moreover, Byron hasn’t led a single lap so far in the season.
While the season has only started, all the Hendrick Motorsports drivers seem to be facing some trouble.
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With Michael Jordan and Carson Hocevar, 23XI Racing and Spire shake up NASCAR competition structure
The brash 23-year-old hotshot driver likes quoting “Talladega Nights” in race on his team radio and makes few apologies for bowling over the NASCAR establishment to pursue a win.
The six-time NBA champion who also is a Cup car owner has become a weekly presence in victory lane on national TV.
The points standings in NASCAR’s premier series are packed at the top with upstart organizations dominating the early storylines in 2026.
The wreck-filled drafting tracks of Daytona International Speedway and Echo Park Speedway are known for producing results that are less than indicative of a full season.
But through two races, 23XI Racing and Spire Motorsports have owned the narrative over title stalwarts Hendrick Motorsports, Joe Gibbs Racing and Team Penske — a trio accounting for 18 of the past 21 Cup championships.
“We show up to the racetrack every weekend with the effort of breaking up the three big teams,” 23XI Racing star Tyler Reddick said Sunday after his second consecutive victory to open the season. “We want to jump in and be a part of the conversation with those three. We want to take the competition to them.”
NASCAR’s competitive structure is being shook up by a world-famous athlete and a wacky personality.
23XI Racing is co-owned by basketball legend Michael Jordan, whose team has the top two drivers in the points standings with Reddick and Bubba Wallace.
Spire Motorsports has the fourth-ranked driver in Carson Hocevar, who finished fourth Sunday at the 1.54-mile oval south of Atlanta in Hampton, Georgia. His third consecutive top 10 at Atlanta came a week after he led entering the final lap of the Daytona 500 before crashing just past the white flag in NASCAR’s biggest race.
He showed his trademark resilience at Atlanta, rallying from a cut tire that dropped his No. 77 Chevrolet two laps down.
During a late red flag, Hocevar instructed his spotter to relay messages to Wallace and Ross Chastain that he wanted to “shake and bake” on the restart.
Channeling Will Ferrell’s Ricky Bobby character from “Talladega Nights” is on brand for Hocevar, who has angered the opposition since arriving in Cup two years ago.
Going for the lead during the first overtime restart at Atlanta, he plowed into the left rear of Christopher Bell’s No. 20 Toyota and triggered a five-car crash.
“I was taking every run,” Hocevar said. “I’m sure I owe people apologies, but I think we’re all going for spaces and runs.”
Teammate Daniel Suarez took a more measured approach to finish fifth and improve to seventh in the standings for Spire Motorsports, which already was in the headlines after hiring away a key executive from Gibbs. The team since has filed a lawsuit against former competition director Chris Gabehart.
“I couldn’t be prouder of Spire Motorsports,” Suarez said. “These guys continue to fight and get better. Just super happy to be here. We have a great thing going.”
Suarez joined Spire from Trackhouse Racing, which had two top 10s Sunday with Chastain (third) and Shane van Gisbergen (a career-best sixth on an oval). Zane Smith was seventh at Atlanta and is ranked fifth in points for Front Row Motorsports.
Hendrick’s Chase Elliott (third) is the only driver from NASCAR’s traditional “Big Three” in the top 10 of the standings. Penske’s highest-ranked driver is Ryan Blaney in eighth, and Joe Gibbs Racing’s top driver is Chase Briscoe, who is 15th in points after taking second at Atlanta.
It’s all a welcome change for NASCAR, which recently launched a “Hell Yeah” promo campaign aimed at attracting a new audience (which already knows Jordan from his NBA career) while satisfying its longtime fans (who appreciate the rough-hewn style of Hocevar).
Under the new 10-race Chase championship, Reddick could have a chance to become the first champion from outside Hendrick, Penske and Gibbs since Martin Truex Jr. in 2017.
“It’s very early, but it’s not by circumstances,” said Denny Hamlin, who recruited Jordan, a lifelong NASCAR fan, as his partner in 23XI Racing. “Just doing a lot of the right things. We’re making up for lost time.”
But there’s still a long way to go in becoming a powerhouse.
“It’s too early for that,” Hamlin said. “We’re many wins and championships away from that … but we’re working hard.”
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Humbled Kyle Larson Issues Apology as HMS Faces Backlash Over “Embarrassing” Atlanta Antics
Kyle Larson made an uncharacteristic mistake this Sunday. While attempting to move from the top lane to the inside, his left turn was so long that he took out both Shane van Gisbergen and himself. “Was he trying to come all the way down to the racetrack?” said one of the commentators. That mistake from him was very unlike Larson. In the post-race interview, he didn’t mince any words about this and took responsibility for it.
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Kyle Larson makes his intentions clear post-race
Right before his crash, he was about to finish the second stage in the top 5. It would put him in a favorable spot to try to win the race. Nevertheless, one mistimed move by him cost him a good haul of points.
“It’s more so frustrating because it was all me. Typically, I get caught up in—I feel like others’ mistakes—in these types of tracks, but that was completely my fault. So that’s embarrassing and frustrating, and I’m just glad nobody else, I don’t think, got taken out.”
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The Hendrick Motorsports driver confirmed that there were no issues with his car. He had all the pace necessary in order to make it to the front of the pack. If he had been slightly better, Larson might have won.
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“We had a great car, and it felt like up until that point, I was doing a pretty good job. Guys are always just trying to build their notebook up in these places. I know I crashed right there, but still, we’re getting better and better when it comes to these, especially here at Atlanta. So, yeah, that was fun; I just wish I was out there.”
The race results were incredibly demotivating for Kyle Larson. He made contact with SVG during the incident, but the Kiwi was able to recover and make a record finish in P6 later on. Meanwhile, Kyle Larson is stuck defending his 2025 title on a difficult note.
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He is no longer one of the favorites for winning the 2026 titles. Larson’s off-season success, paired with the new format, gave him an advantage for his title defense.
Historically, Kyle Larson has been rather lackluster when it comes to drafting tracks. His average is around P20, which speaks volumes about his struggles. He is still trying to wrap his head around the superspeedways and other drafting tracks like Atlanta. The 2026 Daytona 500 wasn’t kind to him either.
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After getting involved in a multi-car wreck caused by Justin Allgaier, Larson would go on to finish P21 in the race. But he is not the only one facing issues at Hendrick Motorsports. Rick Hendrick‘s entire program has come under scrutiny after Atlanta.
Hendrick Motorsports faces backlash at Atlanta
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To put it into perspective, Hendrick Motorsports runs a four-car program in the NASCAR Cup Series and has a singular O’Reilly Series program with their developmental driver Corey Day. Yesterday’s race went from bad to worse for each one of them, as they are facing much criticism now with their performances.
It all started on Sunday with Corey Day wiping out nearly half of the field. He was able to scramble a P4 finish in the race, but his mistake proved disastrous for others. Day was trying to defend against Ryan Sieg, who had a great run coming around him. He crashed Sieg into the barrier, and the subsequent spinout took out multiple top-10 finishers from Daytona.
On Sunday, both William Byron and Kyle Larson brought chaos to the field. While Larson’s fumble only took him out and slightly pushed SVG to the back foot, Byron’s crash was much more disastrous. William Byron was mitigating damage from an earlier wreck in the final laps of the race.
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His car was handling pretty badly, and his steering had faded by that point. While trying to find clean air and limp back into the pits, he got tagged by Austin Cindric. This set off a chain reaction that took out multiple cars at once.
Byron shouldered the blame for the crash. “I just messed up. I was pushing hard and had to kind of put myself in some weird spots based on the damage. But, yeah, nothing like that, no tire.”
Meanwhile, both Chase Elliott and Alex Bowman could not make it to the top 10. Elliott may have won Atlanta’s second race last season, but he couldn’t bring the same magic to the sprint race this year. He is already struggling in the championship after a near miss at Daytona.
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Bowman’s race was also less than noteworthy. After suffering major damage in a multi-car wreck in an earlier stage, Bowman could only manage P23. For a team like Hendrick Motorsports, these results are concerning, especially considering the importance of consistency in the 2026 season.
Defunct MLB stadiums we wish were still around
The original home of the Toronto Blue Jays was part of the massive Exhibition Place grounds and was best used for football. While it provided wide-open views for baseball, the lowest rows of seating were still rather far from the playing field, as was the case with most fields that were initially built for football. An open-air stadium, along Lake Ontario, also made for some harsh cold-weather, windy days and nights early and late in the season. While not an easy place to watch baseball, Exhibition Stadium’s unintended quirkiness takes us back to a simpler time in baseball history where amenities weren’t that big of a deal.
Sometimes the shortcomings of a specific ballpark can be what we miss most. Though regular attendees to Candlestick probably do not miss the harsh winds and chilly temperatures that were staples in the heart of summer for Giants games. Located on Candlestick Point, on the western portion of San Francisco Bay, the park was picked initially because it offered the most open space to building something of that size. For years, catching pop fly balls were an adventure for fielders, and the actual fenced outfield wall was interesting. It wasn’t the most pleasant of places to watch baseball, especially at night, but making it through such contests was a victory in itself for dedicated fans.
Best known as the home of Washington’s professional football team, Robert F. Kennedy, located just east of the United States Capitol, was one of the first
North Dakota State Insider Reveals Stadium Status Amid FBS Move
While the nation’s biggest FBS stadiums have drawn well over 100,000 fans on a fall Saturday, recent newcomer North Dakota State has a small fraction of that capacity but the sound to match the blaring noise of the SEC and Big Ten.
North Dakota State’s home stadium, the 19,000-seat Fargodome, has reached 115 decibels for a game before during the Bison’s dominant FCS run of 10 national titles between 2011 and 2024. That puts a full Fargodome easily in the top-25 of noisiest venues based on USA Today’s Aggies Wire’s numbers, but the dome administration isn’t looking to expand seating yet to make the home environment more intimidating.
“The move to FBS doesn’t mean the Fargo Dome Authority is going to revisit another run at a renovation, at least immediately,” Fargo Dome Authoriy president David Suppes told NDSU insider Jeff Kolpack of the Fargo Forum last week.
According to Kolpack, the wide majority of Fargo residents voted down a $140 million proposal in 2024 to renovate the dome because of sales tax funding. However, the dome is also a finalist to have an addition with the new Fargo convention center, and Suppes informed Kolpack that NDSU’s move up could impact things.
“We’re working hard on that and it’s quite a bit of work,” Suppes said. “But this news coming out of NDSU being accepted to the Mountain West certainly adds another dynamic to the conversation.”
Bison HC Tim Polasek: ‘It’s Intimidating’
While the Fargo Dome is the third-smallest venue in the Mountain West, it could offer one of the toughest places to play for visiting teams.
That was the case in the FCS, where the Bison had a 38-2 record at home in the playoffs, and the Bison are 144-24 all-time at home since the dome opened in 1993. NDSU’s first game in the dome as a Division II program, and the matchup with Pittsburg State was on ESPN’s radar, per Bison Illustrated. Two decades later, ESPN’s CollegeGameday came three times during the Bison FCS dynasty.
“For coaches and players on the field, NDSU is a problem,” Bison head coach Tim Polasek told Kolpack. “The crowd noise, the in-game experience with the jumbotrons, as far as dealing with the environment — A-plus, it will be high in the Mountain West.”
Polasek noted that even the Bison tailgating environment gets visiting teams’ attention. He knows it will be the case in the FBS, too, after serving on staff with Iowa from 2017 to 2020 and Wyoming from 2021 to 2023.
“I get this from coaches who come here, if the bus driver takes a wrong turn and they go down by the tailgating, it’s intimidating,” Polasek said.
Expansion Not Needed For Bison
As Kolpack noted, the NCAA did away with the 15,000-fan minimum average for the FBS in 2023, so NDSU will only need to expand seating via renovation or a new stadium if the fan base grows to require it.
That said, NDSU could easily sit in the middle of the Mountain West pack for attendance. Air Force led attendance in 2025 with 39,441 fans per game, and San Jose State had a league low 18,265 fans per contest.
Best Phoenix restaurants near every spring stadium
Spring training season is one of the most exciting times of the year for baseball fans, especially in Arizona, where 15 of the MLB’s 30 teams share 10 spring training stadiums during the Cactus League season, which lasts from Feb. 20 through March 24.
If you’re bored of stadium food and want to end your day at the ballpark on a high note, or if you’re visiting from out of town and looking for a restaurant recommendation near the action, look no further. The Republic recently released its list of 100 essential restaurants for 2026, and many of the beloved restaurants are within a few miles of spring training stadiums.
Here is your guide to essential restaurants that are within a 4-mile radius (or about a 10-minute drive or less) from every spring training stadium in Arizona.
Restaurants near American Family Fields of Phoenix
American Family Fields of Phoenix, located at 3805 N. 53rd Ave. in Phoenix, is the spring training home to the Milwaukee Brewers.
Birriería Obregón
If you’re craving authentic Sonoran flavors, you must visit Birriería Obregón, a place where the specialties include seafood, birria, tacos and bichis (birria broth) along with caguamanta (manta ray stew) and beef head. Don’t miss breakfast, served with handmade flour or corn tortillas. And to finish on a sweet note, try one of their traditional Mexican desserts.
Details: 2500 N. 35th Ave., Phoenix. More locations at birrieriaobregonaz.com.
— Nadia Cantú
Great Wall Cuisine
As one of the first places in the Valley to specialize in dim sum, Great Wall has been like “the Grand Central station of the Asian community,” as the daughter of the couple who have run it since 1992 described it to The Republic. The large restaurant has been the go-to spot for community gatherings, business meetings and celebrations within the metro Phoenix Chinese and Asian American community. On weekdays and weekends, the dining room buzzes with conversation as people of all ages enjoy dim sum. When I visit, I always order the egg noodles, Chinese broccoli with oyster sauce and shrimp shu mai. Then, I get creative and mix it up, perhaps choosing their soft, sweet custard buns or the thick, spiced beef tripe. Just point and pick your own adventure from the array on the rolling carts.
Details: 3446 W. Camelback Road, #155, Phoenix. 602-973-1112, greatwallcuisineaz.com.
— Reia Li
Los Pinos Surf and Turf
Los Pinos serves the best grilled butterfly shrimp in the Valley. They come doused in butter, accompanied by a perfectly spicy salsa. This family-friendly restaurant echoes with cheerful music under the watchful eye of the taxidermy bulls on the wall. As the name implies, it’s the best place for Mexican surf and turf, from a filet mignon served with baked potato and asparagus to a hearty caldo de siete mares (seven seas soup). Wash it down with a michelada or their aguas frescas, which are natural and delicious. Live music on the weekend makes it feel like a party.
Details: 3618 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix. lospinossurfandturfaz.com.
— Nadia Cantú
Restaurants near Camelback Ranch-Glendale
Camelback Ranch-Glendale, located at 10710 W. Camelback Road in Phoenix, is the spring training home of the Chicago White Sox and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Mis Nietos Cocina Mexican Food
Mis Nietos Cocina Mexican Food is a small, cozy and family-friendly restaurant that offers the best homemade Mexican breakfasts in the West Valley. Freshly made tortillas, natural aguas frescas and crafted coffees are diner favorites. Be sure to try the red chilaquiles, served with beans and eggs any style.
Details: 10575 W. Indian School Road, Avondale. mi-cocina-mexican-food.menu-world.com.
— Nadia Cantú
Restaurants near Goodyear Ballpark
Goodyear Ballpark, located at 1933 S. Ballpark Way in Goodyear, is spring training home of the Cleveland Guardians and Cincinnati Reds.
PoNy’s Miches
In just a few short years, Jose “Pony” Flores and his wife, Analiz Gonzalez, grew PoNy’s Miches from a humble food truck to a fan-favorite restaurant that earned the third most votes in The Republic’s Top Taco 2024 for Gonzalez’s Baja-style seafood tacos. PoNy’s is the place to go for ceviche, micheladas and Mexican shrimp cocktails.
Details: 725 S. Estrella Pkwy., Goodyear. PoNy’s Miches on Facebook.
– Eddie Fontanez
Restaurants near Hohokam Stadium
Hohokam Stadium, located at 1235 N. Center St. in Mesa, is the spring training home of The Athletics.
Tacos Chiwas
Tacos Chiwas, Armando Hernández and Nadia Holguín’s debut restaurant, is basically taco heaven. If you’re ever in the mood to try all the imaginable taco variants, this is your ideal destination. From barbacoa, carne asada, lengua and al pastor tacos, to gorditas filled with picadillo and carne deshebrada, plus vegetarian options, Tacos Chiwas offers an incredible array of options and flavors, served with their very own Chihuahuan twist.
Details: 127 W. Main St., Mesa. 480-590-7163. More locations at tacoschiwas.com.
— Paula Soria
Myke’s Pizza
To find the best wood fired pizza in the East Valley, you’ll have to take a trip to the Cider Corps taproom in downtown Mesa. On my first visit, I marveled at the hanging Army helmets repurposed as lamps at the bar, listened to the tune of Chick Corea’s jazzy piano and sent my taste buds into overjoyed overdrive with one bite of the melt in your mouth blend of mozzarella, provolone and gouda cheeses and the savory-sweet sensation of the crushed tomato sauce on my pie. Whether you’re daring enough to try such adventurous creations as the butternut squash or chorizo and olive pizzas, or you stick with a traditional pepperoni pizza, the high-quality and flavorful ingredients will ensure it’s an experience you want to repeat as often as possible.
Details: 31 S. Robson, Suite 103, Mesa. 480-687-8526, mykespizza.com.
— Michael Salerno
Restaurants near Peoria Sports Complex
Peoria Sports Complex, located at 16101 N. 83rd Ave. in Peoria, is the spring training home of the San Diego Padres and Seattle Mariners.
Fabio on Fire Pizzeria Italiana
Cozy is the first word that comes to mind when you first enter Fabio on Fire Pizzeria Italiana. Then the food arrives and that’s all you’ll be able to think about. Housemade bread in no time. You might end up ordering a second basket. Yes, it’s that good. But save room for other starters, like burrata with roasted tomatoes and pesto. Sharp basil gives life to the perfectly creamy burrata and the tomatoes add a warm acidity. Then move on to the main event, the pizza pies, with the likes of the Bianca Parma topped with arugula, parmesan and prosciutto. Every element holds its own and together they are more than the sum of their parts. Not unlike this charming, delicious restaurant.
Details: 8275 W. Lake Pleasant Parkway, Peoria. 623-680-5385, fabioonfire.com.
— Bahar Anooshahr
Restaurants near Salt River Fields at Talking Stick
Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, located at 7555 N. Pima Road in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community near Scottsdale, is the spring training home of the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies.
Andreoli Italian Grocer
When you walk into Andreoli’s it feels like you’re entering someone’s home, not a restaurant. The cozy space has family photos papering the walls, rustic tables and chairs and a cute patio perfect for dining under the stars. But the real star is the food. The menu is filled with Italian classics like cured meats and cheeses; massive sandwiches served on focaccia and pasta options ranging from delicate potato gnocchi to hearty rigatoni. Plus, the dessert case is always filled with delectable fresh cannoli, cakes and pastries.
Details: 8880 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale. 480-614-1980, andreoli-grocer.com.
— Meredith G. White
Il Bosco Pizza
Il Bosco Pizza was named the best pizza in Phoenix by The Republic’s readers in a 2025 pizza poll, and I can’t think of a more deserving choice. Shortly after the pizza poll, I took my partner on a date to Il Bosco’s downtown Phoenix location and we completely devoured a wood-fired mushroom pizza and caprese salad. Even the gluten-free crust, made from a combination of tapioca and rice flour, is the perfect blend of soft, doughy edges and a crusty bottom.
Details: 7120 E. Becker Lane, Scottsdale. 480-335-8680. More locations at ilboscopizza.com.
— Eddie Fontanez
Indibar
Indibar is fun and a little loud and totally unexpected. Think fine dining but not pretentious. The chefs took Indian sauces and curries and paired them with elevated proteins and presentations with much success. I’m not going to recommend specific dishes because the chefs here execute everything well, just follow your bliss and have fun. If you order lunch for delivery, it will come in metal tiffins. Utterly charming. A recently added 10-course tasting menu offers its own unique journey and beverage pairing. Not your usual night out.
Details: 6208 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. 480-219-9774, theindibar.com.
— Bahar Anooshahr
The Stand
The Stand is a tiny, roadside food tent in the Salt River Pima Community near Scottsdale. It may not look like much from outside, but The Stand has been serving some of the best fry bread tacos in metro Phoenix for over 20 years. Just follow the smell of fresh-baked bread and warm chili to owner Mick Washington’s front yard, where familiar neighbors and curious visitors alike line up fry bread topped with red chili, green chili or beans and cheese, even in the heat of the Arizona summer.
Details: 3996 N. Alma School Road, near Scottsdale. 480-519-1108, The Stand on Facebook.
– Eddie Fontanez
Restaurants near Sloan Park
Sloan Park, located at 2330 W. Rio Salado Parkway in Mesa, is the spring training home to the Chicago Cubs.
Mekong Palace
Mekong Palace was one of the original restaurants that opened with Mekong Plaza in 2008. Since then, the plaza has gone from nearly empty to a bustling hub for Asian food, and the dim sum restaurant has played no small part in that. The large, open space is filled with intergenerational families chatting over steaming cups of jasmine tea. Aunties with impeccably neat hairstyles zip between tables touting an array of dim sum on their carts. On a recent visit, one proudly pointed out the shrimp shu mai and the tofu roll stuffed with mushrooms and bamboo that she’d hand-rolled herself. It’s the kind of place you can sit and talk with a friend for hours, savoring bite after bite of creamy egg tarts.
Details: 66 S. Dobson Road, Suite 120, Mesa. 480-962-0493, mekongpalace.com.
— Reia Li
Jin BBQ
If you’re searching for good Korean BBQ, then Jin BBQ is the place for you. Not only do you get plenty of meat options to choose from (everything from bulgogi to marinated short ribs and sliced brisket) but your meal comes with unlimited banchan (small side dishes) like corn with cheese, steamed eggs, kimchi, macaroni salad and more. The staff are super friendly and frequently replace the grill with a clean one. There’s plenty of other things to order off the menu, too, like a seafood pancake the size of your head, kimchi stew or fried rice.
Details: 111 S. Dobson Road, Mesa. 480-687-2124, jinbbq.com.
— Meredith G. White
Shaanxi Garden
We should all be grateful that the Valley has a restaurant like Shaanxi Garden. It specializes in the cuisine of northwestern China, which is known for its noodles and the use of lamb and cumin, thanks to its historic position on the Silk Road. Shaanxi Garden’s handmade thick, chewy noodles are the stuff of dreams. I drool over their cumin biang biang noodles with lamb. They’re also one of the few places in the Valley where you can find malatang, a spicy, creamy Sichuan soup. Our Chinese food scene is all the richer for a gem like Shaanxi Garden.
Details: 67 N. Dobson Road, #109, Mesa. 480-733-8888. @shaanxigarden on Instagram.
— Reia Li
Restaurants near Scottsdale Stadium
Scottsdale Stadium, located at 7408 E. Osborn Road in Scottsdale, is the spring training home of the San Francisco Giants.
DeFalco’s Italian Deli & Grocery
Fulfilling a craving for just about any type of Italian specialty or sandwich leads me to DeFalco’s. The family-owned Scottsdale institution, with a menu based on family recipes passed down for a century, continues to be packed with diners old and young for everything from pizza and pasta to cheesesteaks and homemade sausage sandwiches. Consider getting a sweet treat from the dessert case, like their New York style cheesecake. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
Details: 2334 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. 480-990-8660, defalcosdeli.com.
— Michael Salerno
FnB
FnB is an essential restaurant for multiple reasons. In a state where cattle is one of five major economic drivers, James Beard Award-winning chef and co-owner Charleen Badman champions vegetables in her restaurant, and has been since long before it was common or cool to do so. The inventive, vegetable-forward menu earned her a James Beard award for Best Chef Southwest in 2019. She still procures local products whenever possible, including Arizona wine, such as Los Milics, her business partner Pavle Milic’s winery. Her contributions go beyond the walls of her restaurant. Badman launched The Blue Watermelon Project in 2017, recruiting Valley chefs to improve school lunches and teach children farm-to-table cooking. She’s a true icon of Arizona dining and so’s her restaurant.
Details: FnB, 7125 E. Fifth Ave., Scottsdale. 480-284-4777, fnbrestaurant.com.
– Bahar Anooshahr
Restaurants near Surprise Stadium
Surprise Stadium, located at 15850 N. Bullard Ave. in Surprise, is the spring training home of the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers.
Rito’s Mexican Food
Family-owned Rito’s Mexican Food first opened in 1977 inside the home of Rosemary and Rito Salinas. Now, the business has grown to a Mexican restaurant empire with four locations in the Valley. Rito’s is most famous for its signature green chili burritos, made with diced beef cooked in green sauce with green chili, jalapenos, tomatoes and onions in a flour tortilla. They’re so good, they won the Burrito Bracket in 2023.
Details: 15643 N. Reems Road, Surprise. 907 N. 14th St., Phoenix. 602-262-9842. Other locations at ritosmexicanfood.com.
— Eddie Fontanez
Restaurants near Tempe Diablo Stadium
Tempe Diablo Stadium, located at 2200 W. Alameda Drive in Tempe, is the spring training home of the Los Angeles Angels.
The Chuckbox
A half-pound cheeseburger, fries and a drink for less than $20 seems unthinkable in today’s economy. But Arizonans can find this unbeatable bargain if they order the Great Big One at The Chuckbox, an old-school burger joint near the Arizona State University campus in Tempe, which has been open since 1972. Aside from being reasonably priced, the burgers are phenomenal. Mesquite grilled to perfection, they pair well with the unlimited ketchup, pickles, onions and jalapeños from the condiment bar. The Arizona Republic readers chose well when they crowned The Chuckbox the winner of our best burger poll in 2024. Make sure to bring cash, they don’t take credit cards.
Details: 202 E. University Drive, Tempe. 480-968-4712, thechuckbox.com.
— Michael Salerno
Cafe Lalibela
This family-run establishment was one of Arizona’s first Ethiopian restaurants when it opened in 1996, serving traditional Ethiopian fare made from owner Anibal Abayneh’s mother’s recipes in a welcoming environment that celebrates the culture. If you’re into sharing food with friends, this is a perfect place to do just that while sampling much of what the menu has to offer by ordering a platter and digging in with your injera, the spongy Ethiopian bread that’s used as a utensil. The Lalibela Deluxe, a combination platter whose highlights range from doro wat (spicy chicken stew) to fosolia (a dish made with green beans and carrots) is recommended for parties of two, but it could just as easily serve three or four.
Details: 849 W. University Dr., Tempe. 480-829-1939, cafelalibela.com.
— Ed Masley
Casey Moore’s Oyster House
Casey Moore’s Oyster House has been an iconic hangout spot near ASU for generations. But you don’t need to be in college to enjoy a late-night order of raw oysters or steamed clams. Even if seafood isn’t your thing, Casey Moore’s also offers a large menu of burgers, sandwiches and hot dogs. There are over a dozen beers on tap and even more whiskey. Local legend suggests the bar is haunted, but that has never stopped me from enjoying a game on the TVs. Still, the patio remains my favorite place to spend hours on a cool autumn night, sharing appetizers and conversation with friends.
Details: 850 S. Ash Ave., Tempe. 480-968-9935, caseymoores.com.
— Eddie Fontanez
Reach the reporter at eddie.fontanez@azcentral.com. Follow @ERFontanez on Instagram.
How far do teams travel?
The trucks have been packed, shipped east or west and unloaded. Players have assembled from all over the globe.
And the gates are now open for fans to engage in a timeless ritual: Spring training baseball begins Feb. 20.
With workouts for all 30 teams underway and games soon to begin in Florida’s Grapefruit League and Arizona’s Cactus League, Major League Baseball’s preseason is in full swing. All 15 Arizona teams are squeezed into the Phoenix area, but the other half are fanned out in four distinct nooks of Florida.
They’ll be posted there from now until the third week of March, when games wrap up and teams head north (most of them, anyway) for final exhibition games before the regular season begins March 25-27.
Where do MLB teams play for spring training?
As mentioned, it’s split right down the middle − half in Arizona, half in Florida. All teams in the American League and National League West train in Arizona, save for the Houston Astros, who are headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida. All the American League and National League East and Central teams train in Florida except the Ohio-based Cleveland Guardians and Cincinnati Reds, who share a facility in Goodyear, Arizona.
When do players report?
Teams require pitchers and catchers to arrive a few days early; the rest of the team (position players) have to report by Tuesday, Feb. 17.
How far do MLB teams travel to spring training?
The annual arrival of
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Elland Road is one of the most iconic stadiums in English football, and it looks set for a huge upgrade in the coming years. That’s at least the plan for Leeds United’s billionaire owners, with Jed York vowing to put the city
How the White Stadium project’s cost compares to other stadiums
The Globe examined soccer stadium projects in Seattle, Denver, and Kansas City, Mo., all of which are being developed or were completed within the last two years. While none is an exact replica of the split-funding plan in Boston, they each are designed to be homes to women’s professional soccer teams or, in Seattle’s case, specifically for high school student-athletes, just as in Boston.
Seattle is pursuing a $150 million publicly funded redevelopment of a 6,500-seat stadium, with help from private donors. In Denver, the Summit FC team is footing the $200 million bill for a new stadium, with the city paying $70 million for land and other costs. Kansas City’s two-year-old women’s soccer venue cost a reported $140 million.
Meanwhile in Boston, costs have jumped more than 60 percent from an initial projection of $200 million.
Wu has attributed the price spike for the 10,000-seat White Stadium to the impact of tariffs on building supplies; inflation that, in a span of just a few years, has significantly driven up prices; and updates suggested by the surrounding community that she said would “make the project better and therefore more expensive.”
Experts said developing and building a huge project can also simply cost more in Boston than in other major metro areas, given many use unionized labor, and that in general, wages here reflect the region’s high cost of living. The permitting process here can also be expensive.
The revamped White Stadium is expected to open in the summer of 2027.
Emma Pettit, a Wu spokesperson, said in a statement that city officials “caution against drawing comparisons with facilities built for different purposes, in different years, and in different markets.”
“Rebuilding White Stadium will be the largest investment in BPS athletics and Franklin Park since the stadium was constructed in 1949,” Pettit said. “We are excited that construction is now underway.”
Under the city’s agreement with Boston Legacy FC, the team will spend at least $190 million on the renovation, while Boston will put in $135 million — which Wu insists will be the limit of the city’s share. The team will also pay more than $62 million over the coming years in rent to the city, and on maintenance for the stadium, improvements to Franklin Park, and other community benefits.
Wu officials have called it a historic and innovative deal: a private team investing a nine-figure sum to help build a valuable public asset, but will remain owned and controlled by BPS. The new facility will also be open to the public 365 days a year, including the 20 days the professional soccer team can host home games, and will be an “economic driver” in the area, Wu’s office said.
Other comparable stadiums — both those still in the works, and one that is completed — don’t come near the total cost of White Stadium.
The Kansas City Current built the 11,500-seat CPKC Stadium for about $117 million in 2024, though that does not include additional infrastructure improvements, according to a Kansas City official. The cost ultimately rose to a reported $140 million, nearly double the original $70 million estimate.
The team did receive $6 million in state tax credits and up to $8 million in reimbursements for utility work, funded by revenue from a port improvement district sales tax.
Like the Boston Legacy, the Current play in the National Women’s Soccer League.
Another NWSL team, the Denver Summit FC, is planning a 14,500-seat stadium on a large lot that once housed a rubber factory, with the team expected to spend $200 million. The facility is forecast to be open in 2028.
While the stadium itself is privately funded, it was contingent on Denver purchasing the land and making improvements for a total of $70 million.
“It’s a historically contaminated site that . . . has been nothing valuable to [my] community but a big divide and blight,” said City Councilor Flor Alvidrez.
The location of the Denver facility is in contrast to that of White Stadium in Franklin Park, considered the crown jewel of Frederick Law Olmsted’s network of public parks known as the Emerald Necklace. The environmental nonprofit the Emerald Necklace Conservancy and a number of Boston residents have sued the city to stop the project, and further called on the city to renovate it without the involvement of a private soccer team.
Seattle is doing just that, with a $150 million effort to renovate Seattle Public Schools’ Memorial Stadium. At 6,500 seats, it will be smaller than Boston’s new White Stadium, but would be funded largely by the city and the school district, with about $30 million coming from private donors.
The Seattle school district originally budgeted $66.5 million to replace the aging stadium, but decided to upgrade the plans, said Fred Podesta, the district’s chief operations officer. The stadium would primarily be used by students, but officials said it could also host concerts or professional sports games, which could also help defray maintenance costs.
“We arrived at a design and a cost that is going to serve everybody’s needs,” Podesta said.
That the cost of White Stadium is far higher than each of those isn’t surprising to some experts.
Development is extremely expensive in Massachusetts compared to other states for a variety of reasons, from the web of building and environmental regulations that developers must follow to the cost of land, said John Ferrante, chief executive of Associated General Contractors of Massachusetts.
The construction industry is also largely unionized, and labor can be one of the biggest line items in a project budget, he said.
“The cost of living here is quite high, and so obviously we’re trying to compensate people so that they can afford to live in the communities that they’re building in,” Ferrante said.
Renovations such as the White Stadium project can also be more expensive than a new build, he added. There’s more uncertainty over what will be uncovered, such as asbestos or unexpected wiring, and there are additional costs that come with preserving any part of the original structure, Ferrante said.
Tariffs and inflation have also caused the price of materials to skyrocket, making it far more expensive to build now than even just one or two years ago, said Robert Koshgarian, head of the sports and entertainment project development team at the national real estate firm JLL.
“It’s massive,” Koshgarian said. “I’ve had contractors tell me that they’re seeing somewhere near [a] 40 percent increase.”
Wu has argued that Boston could not build a new stadium of the caliber she says students deserve for much less than the $135 million the city is spending.
Other stadium projects also carry hefty price tags. In nearby Everett, the Kraft Group is planning to spend an estimated $500 million to build a new stadium for the New England Revolution that could hold up to 24,000 fans.
Still, some critics aren’t sold on Wu’s plan. Andrew Zimbalist, an economics professor at Smith College, said a stadium that’s designed to cater to both a professional team and high school athletes is “a kind of a hybrid that doesn’t exist.”
“The project is bad for high school sports,” he said, “and it’s not good for Boston women’s soccer to have only half of a professional stadium.”
New UFL owner Mike Repole all in on St. Louis, Battlehawks
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.
Andy Roddick joins ESPN’s coverage of Wimbledon, US Open
BRISTOL, Conn. (AP) — Tennis Hall of Famer Andy Roddick is joining ESPN for its coverage of Wimbledon and the U.S. Open under a multi-year deal announced Monday.
Roddick, the 2003 U.S. Open champion, will work as a match commentator and studio analyst, starting just before play begins at the All England Club in late June. His championship in New York was the last time an American man won a Grand Slam singles title.
He retired as a player in 2012 and was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2017.
Roddick was the runner-up at four Grand Slam tournaments — losing to Roger Federer each time, at Wimbledon in 2004, 2005 and 2009, and the U.S. Open in 2006 — and collected 32 singles titles, finished nine consecutive years ranked in the ATP’s top 10 and helped the United States win the 2007 Davis Cup.
___
Andy Roddick is joining ESPN’s coverage of Wimbledon and the US Open
BRISTOL, Conn. (AP) — Tennis Hall of Famer Andy Roddick is joining ESPN for its coverage of Wimbledon and the U.S. Open under a multi-year deal announced Monday.
Roddick, the 2003 U.S. Open champion, will work as a match commentator and studio analyst, starting just before play begins at the All England Club in late June. His championship in New York was the last time an American man won a Grand Slam singles title.
He retired as a player in 2012 and was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2017.
Roddick was the runner-up at four Grand Slam tournaments — losing to Roger Federer each time, at Wimbledon in 2004, 2005 and 2009, and the U.S. Open in 2006 — and collected 32 singles titles, finished nine consecutive years ranked in the ATP’s top 10 and helped the United States win the 2007 Davis Cup.
___
AP tennis: https://apnews.com/hub/tennis
Copyright © 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.
She woke up to ‘We’re at war’ in Ukraine. Now Mariia Vainshtein is a New York City tennis champion
Mariia Vainshtein’s family fled Ukraine shortly after Russia launched its invasion four years ago
Mariia Vainshtein participates in drills during tennis practice at the Cary Leeds Center for Tennis and Learning in the Bronx borough of New York, Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026. (AP Photo/Heather Khalifa)
By BRIAN MAHONEY – AP Sports Writer
Updated 13 minutes ago
NEW YORK (AP) — Mariia Vainshtein never heard the noise and slept straight through that horrible night four years ago.
She didn’t have her phone near bed when she woke the next morning — it probably had been taken by her parents for some teenager’s misbehavior, she suspects now with a laugh – so couldn’t scroll around for the news of the day. Instead, she just asked her mother when she could get a ride to school.
Anzhelika Kotliantseva knew they weren’t going anywhere in Ukraine that day. Not after she had been awake for hours, listening to the nearby explosions that began when Russia launched its invasion.
“My mom was like, ’What do you mean? We’re at war! There’s no school, no nothing!’
Andy Roddick Lands Big New Tennis Gig With ESPN
In 2020, American tennis great Andy Roddick—bored during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic—tweeted to the Tennis Channel asking for a job.
A TV gig with the network—his first in several years—helped lay the foundation for a podcast with SI’s Jon Wertheim, and now it appears that podcast has helped land Roddick a gig with ESPN.
Roddick will join ESPN’s coverage of Wimbledon and the US Open in 2026, the network announced in a Monday morning release.
“I’m always just a massive fan of tennis. I’m very excited to join the ESPN tennis team and look forward to covering the two biggest tournaments in the world,” Roddick said in the release.
The 43-year-old Omaha, Neb., native enjoyed a 13-year professional career from 2000 to `12. He won the U.S. Open in 2003, and remains the most recent American man to win a major. At Wimbledon, he made the finals on three occasions without winning the tournament. At the Australian Open, he made the semifinals on four occasions without reaching the final.
After his playing career ended, Roddick had a multi-year radio and television affiliation with Fox and a brief gig analyzing Wimbledon for the BBC before his fateful tweet.
More on Sports Illustrated
Serena Williams brings athlete discipline to ‘The CEO Club’ series
By JONATHAN LANDRUM Jr., AP Entertainment Writer
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Serena Williams may have traded match points for meetings, but the hustle doesn’t stop — even during interviews.
When Williams logged onto Zoom for an interview with The Associated Press, she was already mid-glam, toggling between touch-ups and business talk. It was a snapshot of the multitasking life she now leads beyond tennis after stepping away from professional competition in four years. The 23-time Grand Slam champion, business investor and producer is among the featured leaders in the new Prime Video docuseries “The CEO Club,” which premieres Monday.
Williams has not competed since the 2022 U.S. Open, when she said she was “evolving” away from tennis. Earlier this month, she became eligible to return to competition after reentering the sport’s drug-testing pool, although it remains unclear whether she plans to play again.
For Williams, the transition from elite athlete to entrepreneur draws on the same competitive principles that defined her tennis career.
“I think the biggest lesson is just never give up, and you have to keep trying,” said Williams, who stars in the series alongside Latin singer Thalia; former model and fashion designer Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger; Market America and Shop.com CEO Loren Ridinger; supermodel Winnie Harlow; wellness entrepreneur Hannah Bronfman; and Isabela Rangel Grutman, founder of ISA Grutman jewelry. The eight episode season follows the prominent executives navigating high-stakes decisions, family responsibilities and personal challenges while building global brands.
“As a CEO, you don’t win everything. You have to make really hard decisions,” Williams continued. “Just like in sport and in tennis, you have to show up every day. You might lose, but you just have to show up again the very next day.”
Beyond appearing in the series, Williams also served as an executive producer through her company Nine Two Six Productions, a role she said felt natural after years in the public eye.
“Being in the public eye for so long, you really want to control the narrative and make sure the truth gets out there,” she said. “Not only for me, but for these amazing women that are in the show as well, it’s super important that the right story is told.”
Ridinger said the series highlights the realities behind leadership that audiences often don’t see.
“Everybody thinks you’re just like an overnight success. They don’t realize it took 34 years to get where you’re at,” she said. “Leadership is not that easy. You have to make tough decisions, tough calls. You’re not always a fan favorite of people who you’re working with.”
Ridinger said building a business while balancing personal responsibilities requires prioritization and discipline, particularly for leaders managing both professional demands and family life. She said maintaining focus often means making intentional decisions about how time and energy are spent each day.
“You cannot become a slave to emergencies,” Ridinger said. “You have to learn how to prioritize. And the way I do that is very simple. I do the hardest things first every day.”
Both women emphasized the importance of surrounding themselves with trusted supports systems. They said that’s a common theme that runs throughout the series.
“The curation of a positive circle is just part of life that we need to have,” Ridinger said. “You’re not going to associate with somebody that doesn’t believe in what you do.”
Williams said the mental resilience required in sports has also prepared her for the pressures of leadership.
“When you’re the best, most people want you to not do so well,” she said. “You just have to lean into making those decisions anyway.”
Serena Williams brings athlete discipline to ‘The CEO Club’ series
By JONATHAN LANDRUM Jr., AP Entertainment Writer
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Serena Williams may have traded match points for meetings, but the hustle doesn’t stop — even during interviews.
When Williams logged onto Zoom for an interview with The Associated Press, she was already mid-glam, toggling between touch-ups and business talk. It was a snapshot of the multitasking life she now leads beyond tennis after stepping away from professional competition in four years. The 23-time Grand Slam champion, business investor and producer is among the featured leaders in the new Prime Video docuseries “The CEO Club,” which premieres Monday.
Williams has not competed since the 2022 U.S. Open, when she said she was “evolving” away from tennis. Earlier this month, she became eligible to return to competition after reentering the sport’s drug-testing pool, although it remains unclear whether she plans to play again.
For Williams, the transition from elite athlete to entrepreneur draws on the same competitive principles that defined her tennis career.
“I think the biggest lesson is just never give up, and you have to keep trying,” said Williams, who stars in the series alongside Latin singer Thalia; former model and fashion designer Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger; Market America and Shop.com CEO Loren Ridinger; supermodel Winnie Harlow; wellness entrepreneur Hannah Bronfman; and Isabela Rangel Grutman, founder of ISA Grutman jewelry. The eight episode season follows the prominent executives navigating high-stakes decisions, family responsibilities and personal challenges while building global brands.
“As a CEO, you don’t win everything. You have to make really hard decisions,” Williams continued. “Just like in sport and in tennis, you have to show up every day. You might lose, but you just have to show up again the very next day.”
Beyond appearing in the series, Williams also served as an executive producer through her company Nine Two Six Productions, a role she said felt natural after years in the public eye.
“Being in the public eye for so long, you really want to control the narrative and make sure the truth gets out there,” she said. “Not only for me, but for these amazing women that are in the show as well, it’s super important that the right story is told.”
Ridinger said the series highlights the realities behind leadership that audiences often don’t see.
“Everybody thinks you’re just like an overnight success. They don’t realize it took 34 years to get where you’re at,” she said. “Leadership is not that easy. You have to make tough decisions, tough calls. You’re not always a fan favorite of people who you’re working with.”
Ridinger said building a business while balancing personal responsibilities requires prioritization and discipline, particularly for leaders managing both professional demands and family life. She said maintaining focus often means making intentional decisions about how time and energy are spent each day.
“You cannot become a slave to emergencies,” Ridinger said. “You have to learn how to prioritize. And the way I do that is very simple. I do the hardest things first every day.”
Both women emphasized the importance of surrounding themselves with trusted supports systems. They said that’s a common theme that runs throughout the series.
“The curation of a positive circle is just part of life that we need to have,” Ridinger said. “You’re not going to associate with somebody that doesn’t believe in what you do.”
Williams said the mental resilience required in sports has also prepared her for the pressures of leadership.
“When you’re the best, most people want you to not do so well,” she said. “You just have to lean into making those decisions anyway.”
Serena Williams brings athlete discipline to ‘The CEO Club’ series
By JONATHAN LANDRUM Jr., AP Entertainment Writer
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Serena Williams may have traded match points for meetings, but the hustle doesn’t stop — even during interviews.
When Williams logged onto Zoom for an interview with The Associated Press, she was already mid-glam, toggling between touch-ups and business talk. It was a snapshot of the multitasking life she now leads beyond tennis after stepping away from professional competition in four years. The 23-time Grand Slam champion, business investor and producer is among the featured leaders in the new Prime Video docuseries “The CEO Club,” which premieres Monday.
Williams has not competed since the 2022 U.S. Open, when she said she was “evolving” away from tennis. Earlier this month, she became eligible to return to competition after reentering the sport’s drug-testing pool, although it remains unclear whether she plans to play again.
For Williams, the transition from elite athlete to entrepreneur draws on the same competitive principles that defined her tennis career.
“I think the biggest lesson is just never give up, and you have to keep trying,” said Williams, who stars in the series alongside Latin singer Thalia; former model and fashion designer Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger; Market America and Shop.com CEO Loren Ridinger; supermodel Winnie Harlow; wellness entrepreneur Hannah Bronfman; and Isabela Rangel Grutman, founder of ISA Grutman jewelry. The eight episode season follows the prominent executives navigating high-stakes decisions, family responsibilities and personal challenges while building global brands.
“As a CEO, you don’t win everything. You have to make really hard decisions,” Williams continued. “Just like in sport and in tennis, you have to show up every day. You might lose, but you just have to show up again the very next day.”
Beyond appearing in the series, Williams also served as an executive producer through her company Nine Two Six Productions, a role she said felt natural after years in the public eye.
“Being in the public eye for so long, you really want to control the narrative and make sure the truth gets out there,” she said. “Not only for me, but for these amazing women that are in the show as well, it’s super important that the right story is told.”
Ridinger said the series highlights the realities behind leadership that audiences often don’t see.
“Everybody thinks you’re just like an overnight success. They don’t realize it took 34 years to get where you’re at,” she said. “Leadership is not that easy. You have to make tough decisions, tough calls. You’re not always a fan favorite of people who you’re working with.”
Ridinger said building a business while balancing personal responsibilities requires prioritization and discipline, particularly for leaders managing both professional demands and family life. She said maintaining focus often means making intentional decisions about how time and energy are spent each day.
“You cannot become a slave to emergencies,” Ridinger said. “You have to learn how to prioritize. And the way I do that is very simple. I do the hardest things first every day.”
Both women emphasized the importance of surrounding themselves with trusted supports systems. They said that’s a common theme that runs throughout the series.
“The curation of a positive circle is just part of life that we need to have,” Ridinger said. “You’re not going to associate with somebody that doesn’t believe in what you do.”
Williams said the mental resilience required in sports has also prepared her for the pressures of leadership.
“When you’re the best, most people want you to not do so well,” she said. “You just have to lean into making those decisions anyway.”
Sloane Stephens divorcing Jozy Altidore after four years of marriage
Tennis champion Sloane Stephens and former soccer pro Jozy Altidore have called it quits after four years of marriage.
Stephens confirmed their breakup in an Instagram Story post on Saturday after Page Six first reported the news.
“Jozy and I have decided to end our marriage,” Stephens, 32, wrote. “With peace, I am navigating this transition with mutual respect and kindly ask for privacy during this time.
“Thank you for your love, understanding and continued support,” she concluded the post.
The 2017 US Open champion and the former U.S. men’s national team player first met as middle schoolers growing up in Florida, and later reconnected in 2016.
They both attended Boca Prep International School when Stephens was in fifth grade and Altidore was in seventh, according to Vogue.
Stephens and Altidore reconnected as adults when they ran into each other at Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif.
“I was doing a media scrum in the hallway during a U.S. men’s national team camp,” Altidore said. “Sloane was there training for Fed Cup in Hawaii.
“Sloane turned the corner while having a loud conversation on FaceTime. We locked eyes and started talking during the scrum. We exchanged contacts and went to dinner after my game versus Iceland. The rest was history.”
Altidore proposed to Stephens in 2019 in Los Angeles, surprising her with an art gallery “filled with her family and friends and instead of paintings, the gallery was decorated with massive canvases of photos from our relationship and all the people who have played a role in Sloane’s life up to this point.”
The pair tied the knot in Miami Beach, Fla. on New Year’s Day in 2022.
Altidore has an 11-year-old son from a previous relationship.
Jessica Pegula Shuts Down Critics Questioning Why She Plays Tennis Despite Being a Billionaire
“People think I have a butler, that I get chauffeured around, that I have a private limo, that I fly private everywhere. I’m definitely not like that,” Jessica Pegula once said.
She’s the daughter of billionaire Terry Pegula, owner of the Buffalo Bills and the Buffalo Sabres, and Kim Pegula. With her family’s wealth estimated at around $7 billion, some assume she doesn’t need to work. But Pegula has made it clear that her tennis career is her own, and no amount of money can make her walk away from the sport she loves.
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That perspective came up again ahead of the Dubai Championships final.
On February 21, the 31-year-old delivered a clinical 6-2, 6-4 win over Elina Svitolina. After capturing her maiden Dubai crown and 10th career title, the world No. 4 was asked about her so-called “high-class life” and whether wealth ever made it easier to walk away from the grind.
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“I don’t know. It’s something I’ve loved to do since I was a kid, since before I had anything about my family or money or the teams or stuff like that,” Jessica Pegula explained. Then she spoke about the dream that’s driven her from the very beginning.
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“I wanted to be No. 1 in the world when I was, like, six years old. It’s been my dream for as long as I can remember to be No. 1, to be able to play on tour, to be able to win Slams.”
For Jessica Pegula, this journey has always been personal.
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As she gets ready to celebrate her 32nd birthday on Tuesday, the American star believes she’s edging closer to her childhood goal – winning a Grand Slam.
“I mean, it’s the next step for me. I’ve come really close. At the same time, I don’t feel like I want it to define my career. I think if I had to stop right now, I had an amazing career. I definitely wouldn’t have any regrets.”
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At the Australian Open just last month, she came painfully close to taking that final step.
Many thought she might face Aryna Sabalenka in the championship match. But on January 29, her run ended in the semifinals after a tough loss to Elena Rybakina.
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Still, even without a Slam title, Jessica Pegula is far from struggling.
According to Celebrity Net Worth, her estimated net worth is around $20 million. While a large portion comes from her prize money on tour, her success off the court plays a major role, too.
She has endorsement deals with major brands like Adidas and Yonex. She also runs her own skincare line, Ready 24, and has partnered with Ready Nutrition since 2022, a brand also endorsed by Giannis Antetokounmpo. Pegula is linked with Stella Artois, adding yet another big name to her growing list of partnerships.
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But beyond the money and endorsements, what truly stands out is her love for the game. And Jessica Pegula isn’t just playing tennis, she’s even planning to push for changes to improve player conditions.
Jessica Pegula takes on WTA after Dubai withdrawal drama
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After playing the Australian Open last month, Jessica Pegula headed straight to the Dubai Tennis Championships in February. Now, she’s set to face Slovakian Rebecca Šramková at the ATX Open. But like many players on tour, Pegula has grown frustrated with the relentless tennis calendar. Now, she’s decided to step in and try to fix it herself.
The 2024 US Open runner-up will now chair a newly formed 13-member panel aimed at reviewing the women’s tennis schedule and key tour rules. The goal is simple: meaningful structural changes that can make the sport more balanced and sustainable for players.
This group will take a close look at scheduling, ranking points, and mandatory tournament participation. The initiative was announced in a letter shared Tuesday by WTA Tour chair Valerie Camillo with players and tournament officials. It marks a serious effort to address concerns that have been building for years.
Interestingly, Jessica Pegula won’t be doing this alone.
Victoria Azarenka, a two-time Australian Open champion, Maria Sakkari, a two-time Grand Slam semifinalist, and Katie Volynets are also part of the council. WTA CEO Portia Archer and other tour officials will provide operational insight, ensuring the conversation isn’t just about ideas, but about what can realistically be implemented.
The panel also includes agent Anja Vreg, tournament organizer Bob Moran, Asia-Pacific representative Laura Ceccarelli, and Octagon Tennis executive Alastair Garland. Their combined experience is meant to bring balance and long-term value to the discussion. The group’s first job is to deliver practical recommendations to the WTA board, with hopes that some changes could be in place by the 2027 season.
Initially, the Women’s Tennis Association will focus on reforms within its own structure, while also pursuing broader changes that require collaboration with the ATP Tour and the Grand Slams.
Serena star of new TV show
LOS ANGELES — Serena Williams has shifted her drive from tennis to business, and a new Amazon Prime Video series shows how she leads.
“The CEO Club” premiered Monday night and follows Williams and several other women as they run brands and handle family life. Williams says the same mindset that won her titles matters in the boardroom. She says leaders lose sometimes, but they show up again the next day.
Williams has not competed since the 2022 U.S. Open, when she said she was “evolving” away from tennis.
Williams also executive produces the show, and she says that helps her control the story. Another leader, Loren Ridinger, stresses discipline, tough calls, and strong support circles.
Dallas star hurt at Olympics
FRISCO, Texas — Mikko Rantanen is expected to miss some time for the Dallas Stars after returning from the Olympics.
He didn’t play in Finland’s win over Slovakia for the bronze medal because of a lower body injury. Stars coach Glen Gulutzan says he wouldn’t expect Rantanen certainly for their first game back Wednesday night, and maybe Saturday.
Rantanen is the Stars’ leading scorer with 69 points. He got hurt in Finland’s loss to Canada in the Olympic semifinals on Friday night, and didn’t play in the bronze medal game against Slovakia Saturday.
The Associated Press
PGA Awards Postpones Children’s & Sports Ceremony In New York Amid Blizzard
Here’s the latest casualty of the bomb cyclone gripping the Northeast this week. The Producers Guild of America has postponed tonight’s PGA Awards ceremony in New York that was to honor the winners in its Children’s and Sports categories.
Instead, those winners will be revealed Thursday along with the recipients of the Short Form and PGA Innovation Awards. The rest of the 2026 Producers Guild Awards will be announced on Saturday, February 28, at the Fairmont Century Plaza.
New York and other cities are being crippled by a historic storm that is dropping record amounts of snow on the region. Movie theaters are closed, Broadway has canceled all evening performances for a second consecutive night, and some morning shows went on without studio audiences today.
Vying for the top film prize — the Darryl F. Zanuck Award for Outstanding Producer of Theatrical Motion Pictures — at Saturday’s PGA Awards this weekend are Bugonia, F1, Frankenstein, Hamnet, Marty Supreme, One Battle After Another, Sentimental Value, Sinners, Train Dreams and Weapons. See the full list of PGA Awards nominees here.
The PGA’s Zanuck Award certainly is an Oscar bellwether category and has aligned with the Best Picture Academy Award winner for 17 of the past 22 years. Last year followed suit as the Producers Guild gave its award to Sean Baker’s Anora.
The PGA will honor a trio of industry heavyweights with career honors this weekend. Blumhouse’s Jason Blum will receive the Milestone Award, Spider-Verse franchise producer and three-time Oscar nominee Amy Pascal is set for the David O. Selznick Achievement Award, and Emmy-nominated The Game and Girlfriends creator-writer Mara Brock Akil will be presented with the Norman Lear Achievement Award.
RELATED: The 60 Movies That Have Made More Than $1 Billion At The Global Box Office
Cognizant Classic Betting Preview: Picks, Predictions, Odds for PGA National
The PGA Tour is coming off back-to-back signature events and will now head to PGA National for a non-signature event, the Cognizant Classic, before heading Bay Hill for its third signature event of the year.
The scheduling of three top-tier tournament in the span of four weeks has left the Cognizant Classic with a barren field, headlined by the 2022 runner-up, Shane Lowry. Even with that being the case, it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t bet this week. In fact, some of these smaller events have presented much more favorable betting opportunities than the bigger ones.
Let’s dive into the odds and my best bet for the opening tournament of the Florida swing.
Cognizant Classic odds
Top 15 odds via FanDuel Sportsbook
Shane Lowry +1400
Ryan Gerard +1600
Nicolai Højgaard +2000
Rasmus Højgaard +2200
Keith Mitchell +2200
Michael Thorbjornsen +2200
Brooks Koepka +3000
Christiaan Bezuidenhout +3000
Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen +3000
Aaron Rai +3300
Daniel Berger +3300
Thorbjørn Olesen +3300
Davis Thompson +3300
Will Zalatoris +3500
Max Homa +3500
Cognizant Classic how to watch
Thursday: 2–6 p.m. ET (Golf Channel)
Friday: 2–6 p.m. ET (Golf Channel)
Saturday: 1–3 p.m. ET (Golf Channel), 3–6 p.m. ET (NBC)
Sunday: 1–3 p.m. ET (Golf Channel), 3-6 p.m. ET (NBC)
Cognizant Classic purse
Date: Thursday, Feb. 26–Sunday, Mar. 1
Purse: $9.6 million ($1.728 million to winner)
2025 champion: Joe Highsmith
Cognizant Classic notable golfers
Shane Lowry: The Irishman has a great history at PGA National, but he’s still seeking his first win here. Over the past four years at this event he has finishes of second, T5, T4, and T11. It makes sense why he decided to squeeze this tournament into his schedule. He’ll have plenty of confidence standing on the first tee on Thursday.
Keith Mitchell: His only win on the PGA Tour came at the 2019 edition of this tournament, beating Rickie Fowler and Brooks Koepka by a single stroke. Mitchell has had flashes of fantastic golf since that win, but he’s been unable to put it all together for four straight rounds. Now, he returns to a course where he has plenty of comfort and confidence. He has posted two top-10 finishes here since his win in 2019, so he’s hoping to be in peak form and give himself a chance at a second win at PGA National.
Cognizant Classic Best Bets
Haotong Li +4500 via BetMGM
Accuracy is the key to success at PGA National, so I’m going to target golfers who have been accurate both off the tee and with their approach play so far this season, and Haotong Li fits the bill. He was a popular bet at the WM Phoenix Open after a T8 finish at the American Express and a T11 finish at the Farmers Insurance Open, but he went on to miss the cut in Phoenix due to an uncharacteristically bad two rounds.
Now is the time to buy low on Li, who played phenomenally from tee to green in his second and third starts this season. He also continuously ranks amongst the most accurate drivers of the gold ball on a weekly basis. In a wide open field, I think he’s worth a look at 40-1 at PGA National.
Johnny Keefer +6000 via BetMGM
Johnny Keefer may not be a name you’re familiar with, but he’s 12th in the field in strokes-gained from tee to green over the past three months, including gaining 2.26 strokes per round with his irons at the American Express and 1.08 strokes per round in that area at the WM Phoenix Open. He’s also posted above-average accuracy off the tee in each of his four starts this year.
Keefer’s short game has let him down so far in 2026, but the 2026 Korn Ferry Tour standout is ready to put it all together. He’s a sneaky name at 55-to-1 to take advantage of a weak field at PGA National this week.
Andrew Putnam +15000 via Caesars
If we’re going to value accuracy this week, let’s bet on one of the most accurate drivers of the golf ball in the field this week. Over the past three months, Andrew Putnam has been the second most accurate driver amongst all golfers in the field this week. He has also already contended in an event, finishing T2 at the American Express. As a cherry on top, he posted a T11 finish at this event last year, proving he has a game built for success at PGA National.
Let’s take a shot on him at 150-to-1 this week.
Odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Winners, losers, questions from PGA Tour’s West Coast Swing
My heart remains at Riviera Country Club, but my body is in a middle seat en route home. What better time to reflect on the PGA Tour’s West Coast Swing — the good, the bad, the rumored, the mysterious.
Here are some winners, losers and questions from the opening stretch of the 2026 PGA Tour season.
WINNER: The 26-year-olds
Chris Gotterup won two of the first four events on this year’s calendar (given unusual circumstances, we’re treating the Sony as a half member of this year’s West Coast Swing), playing his best when things got most chaotic at the WM Phoenix Open and establishing himself as a fan favorite, a proven winner and arguably the best player on Tour 26 years old or below.
His current competition for that extremely unofficial title includes the guy who just won at Riviera; Jacob Bridgeman, like Gotterup, is 26. And while Gotterup took the weekend off (he missed the Genesis cut) Bridgeman beat everyone’s doors off for three days and hung on on Sunday to establish that he, too, has what it takes.
LOSER: Hawaii x PGA Tour
Is the PGA Tour headed back to Hawaii? Next year? Ever? It skipped Kapalua this year under controversial circumstances. Its Sony sponsorship just ran out. As the powers that be continue to reimagine the Tour’s optimal schedule, Hawaii remains a logistical challenge lacking a “big market.” How highly will Rolapp and Co. value continuity, tradition and nostalgia? We’ll see.
QUESTION: Where are the 25-year-olds?
Speaking of age, it’s jarring to browse whichever version of the world rankings you’d prefer and marvel at the lack of young stars. The 26-year-olds may be having a moment, but we’re still waiting for the emergence of the next young wave. There’s no reason to despair: Akshay Bhatia (24), the Hojgaard twins (also 24) and the Michaels (Brennan and Thorbjornsen, each 24) could all be on the brink of a breakthrough. But with Tom Kim in a bit of a rut, it feels like we’re searching for Who’s Next. (Shoutout also to Blades Brown, who stole the show for much of the week in Palm Springs.)
WINNER: The 45-year-olds
OK, I promise this whole list won’t be about age. In fact, lemme start with some hypocrisy: I wish when we talk about Justin Rose and Adam Scott that we’d focus less on their age. But it’s a useful way to pair two particularly impressive West Coast showings; Rose’s blowout win at Torrey Pines is worth extra points, of course, but Scott’s Sunday 63 to finish fourth at Riviera was nothing to scoff at, either. These guys are remarkably similar ages, they’ve had remarkably similar careers and they’re performing at remarkably similar levels at the moment. Let’s get ’em on a remarkable leaderboard at the Masters.
LOSER: The Scandinavians
While athletes from Norway and Sweden were dominating the Winter Olympics, their PGA Tour counterparts were having a slightly tougher time on the West Coast. Viktor Hovland and Ludvig Aberg are among the Tour’s biggest talents and fan favorites — but neither has had his best thus far this year.
Hovland had a strong start at the WM Phoenix Open (T10) but less so at Pebble Beach (T58) and Riviera (T41), where talk turned more to his training aids than his scores.
And Aberg got severely ill for a second consecutive West Coast Swing — though if there’s good news, it’s that he seems to be trending up. Going WD-MC-T37-T20 means I guess he’s headed for a Masters victory?
(In other Scandinavian news, Alex Noren went MC-MC in Palm Springs and San Diego, but his T12 at Riviera was encouraging, too. And representing Denmark, the Hojgaard twins have each showed encouraging signs; Nicolai finished T3 at the WM and was one blowup hole from contending to win.)
QUESTION: Will Tiger Woods play the Masters?
Tiger Woods hinted that he’ll try. Then he hinted that he’ll try a second time. I don’t know if he will, but I think he’s told us the truth — if he can, he’ll do it.
LOSER: Scottie Scheffler’s Thursdays
Scottie Scheffler’s first Thursday of the season was a 63 at the American Express. So it’s particularly jarring that he’s just No. 116 on Tour in Round 1 Scoring Average. And it was strange to see him in last place when play was halted this past Thursday. Still …
WINNER: Scottie Scheffler’s other days
Considering he was in last place on Friday morning and needed to make a seven-foot curler on 18 just to stay inside the cut line, Scheffler’s T12 was another remarkable display of skill and determination. Sure, it snapped his streak of 18 consecutive Tour top-10s. But it only reinforced the idea that if you play enough rounds of golf, eventually Scheffler will rise to the top. Four tournaments in, here’s how his scoring average looks by round:
Round 1: 70.50 (116th)
Round 2: 65.75 (2nd)
Round 3: 67.00 (7th)
Round 4: 64.50 (2nd)
(If you were wondering who could possibly beat that 64.5, Will Zalatoris has played one fourth round this year and shot 64.)
QUESTION: So what the heck is going on with Scheffler on Thursdays?
My best guess is still some version of “nothing, really; this has just been a weird blip on the radar.” He led the Tour in first-round scoring last year, after all, and has had some funky starts in strange conditions. Let’s wait for a bigger sample size before we get panicky here.
WINNER: California kids
I’m thinking of two in particular: Collin Morikawa, who won for the first time in too long at Pebble Beach, and Jake Knapp, who just quietly put together the best stretch of golf of his life. Knapp hasn’t finished worse than T11 in five starts this year. Morikawa’s win was meaningful on several levels — because of how long it had been, because of where it took place, because of everything that went into it, because he and his wife have a baby on the way. It’s good to see West Coast kids eat up the West Coast Swing. And then of course there was another California sensation in the winner’s circle …
LOSER: Anthony Kim’s haters and doubters
I write this tongue in cheek; I think Anthony Kim‘s win showed just how many people have been on his side this entire time, rooting for something special. But he’s used a chip on his shoulder to get this far, and his shot at the haters showed he’ll keep drawing on that. Mostly it’s worth acknowledging that one of golf’s biggest moments this month happened on LIV Golf, with a one-of-a-kind comeback story capped off with an electric finish to a story a dozen years in the making.
QUESTION: What’s next for Jon Rahm, LIV and the DP World Tour?
Big picture, this is one of pro golf’s most compelling questions moving forward; LIV and the DP World Tour still seem in an uneasy coexistence and I’m curious how that will resolve. For now the DPWT has reached a temporary truce with several of its LIV members, allowing them to play both circuits and maintain Ryder Cup eligibility. But why isn’t Jon Rahm one of the players taking that deal, and is there any chance in the world he doesn’t play on next year’s European Ryder Cup team?
WINNER: CBS golf coverage
These courses look awesome in person, they look incredible on television and CBS continues to innovate in order to dial in their coverage.
Also, the little stuff continues to go a long way.
LOSER: Soggy conditions
There’s been plenty of discussion about moving these marquee West Coast stops to later in the PGA Tour schedule. A cold, soggy Pebble Beach followed by a cold, soggy Riviera made that case much more appealing, with fans shivering on the rope lines and golf balls plugging in greens. Two perfect weekend days capped the Genesis off in style, and wet and windy can be entertaining at Pebble, but each was still missing some of the firm, fast character it has at its best.
QUESTION: So are we doing the August West Coast thing?
I leave California more confused than I arrived. On paper it seems smart to have the best courses in the biggest spots on the PGA Tour calendar; what could be cooler than Pebble and Riviera as playoff venues? But there are issues with both sites that time of year. Pebble has a car show and a full tee sheet and it’s not near enough of a population center to draw a playoff-worthy crowd. In L.A., locals suggested that the golf-going crowd would be out of town in August and that its current spot on the calendar is actually optimal for getting people to actually attend.
If I was in charge, my top priority would be to remove the playoff events from the hellish August humidity of Atlanta and Memphis. I don’t need them in California, though — Boston, Chicago and Seattle are calling, as are a dozen other medium-to-large cities with ideal summer days. I’m curious where they’ll land, though.
And what the West Coast Swing will look like next year, and the year after that, and when we’ll be gazing at golf’s glorious coastlines again.
We’ll see you in Florida.
Justin Thomas returning to PGA Tour at Arnold Palmer Invitational
Thomas last played competitively in the Ryder Cup in September before undergoing a microdiscectomy in November.
Thomas has been cleared for full golf activities for about a month and feels his speed is close to normal.
PALM BEACH GARDENS — After playing one TGL match, Justin Thomas is returning to the PGA Tour at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
Thomas’ return at the SoFi center Feb. 23 was uneventful as his Atlanta Drive team defeated Boston Common, 5-2.
Now comes the true test as he returns at Bay Hill March 5.
Masters Champ Hands PGA Tour Another Setback After 3 Pros Exited $9.6M Tournament
The Cognizant Classic starts Thursday with a field that looks noticeably different from the one it had 24 hours ago. Three withdrawals had landed in quick succession, but the final blow came when a 45-year-old Masters winner, Adam Scott, withdrew, giving Chan Kim a chance—Scott’s withdrawal stings, given what he had just produced at Riviera.
Adam Scott had gone through the entire 2025 season without a single top-10, managing just five top-25 finishes across the year. However, at the Genesis Invitational, he fired back-to-back rounds of 63 to claim the solo fourth spot, two of the lowest rounds of the week. This helped him rise 19 places in the OWGR to 52nd. This would have been his first appearance at the PGA National since 2021.
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Ben Griffin, Jacob Bridgeman, and Patrick Rodgers had all withdrawn earlier in the day, with Jackson Suber, Lanto Griffin, and Brandt Snedeker coming in as replacements. Harry Higgs was added via sponsor exemption, and the field was expanded from 121 to 123 players to accommodate Brooks Koepka via the Returning Member Program, with Frankie Capan III and Carson Young entering as the first two alternates.
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Griffin, ranked No. 11 in the world, had represented the US at the Ryder Cup and won three times in a season that established him as one of the Tour’s most consistent performers. Bridgeman’s absence carried some warning. After beating Rory McIlroy down the stretch at Riviera and receiving his first PGA Tour trophy from Tiger Woods, his childhood hero and tournament host, Bridgeman told reporters Sunday night he would “see” about playing the following week.
Pattrick Rodgers, a 35-year-old yet to claim a PGA Tour title across his career, rounded out a set of exits that left the field noticeably lighter than it was at the start of the week. At least Snedeker’s arrival adds something. The 10-time Tour winner and former FedEx Cup champion brings serious competition to a field that needed reinforcing. But the broader picture remains unchanged.
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The Cognizant now heads into its opening round with just one top-30 player, No. 26 Ryan Gerard, and eight of the world’s top 50 in total. While the $9.6 million purse sounds significant, its challenging spot on the calendar—sandwiched between Pebble Beach, Genesis, and the upcoming Players Championship—has clearly impacted its ability to draw top talent.
Although the withdrawals have reshaped the field, what remains still has some substance.
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What the Cognizant Classic field still has to offer
Brooks Koepka‘s presence adds the most intrigue. He missed both Pebble Beach and the Genesis Invitational because the Returning Member Program’s terms blocked him from accepting sponsor exemptions for signature events.
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His results in his first two starts back on Tour did not earn him entry either. The Cognizant Classic is his way back in, and it kicks off a run that also includes the Valspar Championship and the Texas Children’s Houston Open before The Masters.
Shane Lowry arrives in decent form. The 2019 Open champion finished T3 at the Dubai Invitational and T8 at Pebble Beach earlier this season, and Florida offers a genuine opportunity to push further up the standings.
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Will Zalatoris is also in the field. This will be only his third PGA Tour start since returning from back surgery, and every round he plays carries weight in terms of where his game currently stands.
With four withdrawals, a reshaped field, and a calendar that was never doing it any favors, can the Cognizant Classic still deliver a week worth watching?
PGA Tour schedule will determine future of Cognizant Classic
The PGA Tour is considering significant schedule changes that could be implemented as early as 2027.
The Cognizant Classic’s future is uncertain due to its recent unfavorable calendar spot, which has diminished its field quality.
PALM BEACH GARDENS — With significant changes to the PGA Tour schedule expected as early as 2027, almost every tournament is under review.
Among those likely to be impacted: The Cognizant Classic in the Palm Beaches.
Cognizant, formerly known as the Honda Classic, starts on Thursday, Feb. 26, at PGA National. It has been in a spot on the calendar in recent years that led to the quality of the field suffering and a drop in fan interest.
One of three things could happen to the PGA Tour event that is celebrating its 20th year at PGA National and 24th since coming to Palm Beach County:
Remain in its current spot.
Move anywhere from February to April — or even to the fall.
Eventually be eliminated.
Joel Paige, managing director at PGA National when the then-Honda Classic moved there in 2007 after four years at The Country Club at Mirasol, believes Cognizant is in a vulnerable position.
Brooks Koepka’s wife Jena Sims Opens Up About Devastating Loss She’s ‘Still Healing’ from
2025 was a tough year for Brooks Koepka and Jena Sims, and not for the reasons most people were watching. Beyond the noise around his career, the couple faced something far more personal: the loss of their baby at 16 weeks, a grief Sims has been navigating openly ever since.
During a recent Instagram Q&A, a follower asked Sims whether she wanted more kids. Her answer was candid and measured. “Really enjoying the one we have at the moment,” she wrote, alongside a photo of herself hugging her two-year-old son, Crew. “Our loss at 16 weeks is still something I am healing from.”
It was a quiet but significant admission, one that made clear this isn’t a chapter she has moved on from.
Sims first went public with the loss in October 2025, sharing a carousel on Instagram that included sonogram images, flowers, and photos of her growing belly.
In her caption, she wrote, “At 16 weeks, we learned that our baby’s heart had stopped beating. This is a grief no parent is ever prepared for. We are devastated but remain hopeful to give Crew a sibling one day.”
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She also took a moment to address the medical professionals who deliver such news.
Sims wrote, “I want to recognize the doctors and nurses who must deliver this kind of heartbreaking news every day. It has to be the hardest part of their job.”
What makes Sims’ openness meaningful is that most people process this kind of grief privately, without ever speaking publicly about it. She has spoken before about how these struggles too often happen in silence, and her willingness to keep talking, even months later, is what gives her platform its weight.
Sims and Koepka welcomed their first child, Crew Sims Koepka, in July 2023, six weeks ahead of schedule via emergency C-section. Now two years old and by all accounts keeping his parents on their toes, Crew is clearly a bright spot in what has been a heavy season for the family.
When asked how she was doing in the same Q&A, she replied, “I’m really excited for the tournament this week! Work is good, the relationship is great, and the Crew is a veryyy fun age. Lots to be thankful for.”
Grief and gratitude, it turns out, can coexist. “There is no timeline or rulebook for healing,” Sims has said in the past while she broke her abortion. “If I can make one woman feel less lonely by sharing, then I’ve done my job.” By most measures, she already has.
Well, that’s not the only thing she talked about in that session. Jena Sims gave a glimpse into her personal life.
Sims shares candid snapshots of home life with Brooks Koepka and Crew
Jena Sims’ answers to the Q&A went beyond her grief and offered a glimpse into her daily life with her son, Crew, and husband, Brooks Koepka. She said that her work is steady, her relationship is strong, and Crew is happy, which shows that she is making emotional progress while balancing her responsibilities as a mother, a career, and life on the PGA Tour.
She also talked about fun times with her kids, like when she taught Crew to say “Dawgs,” which she called “adorable.” Her response, along with an honest note about not having the energy to scroll through clips, showed how unfiltered she is as a mother. She is always tired and funny, even though she has a busy public schedule.
Another fan interaction showed how Koepka is at home. Sims said, “He’s the best.” “Choose your husbands wisely,” which is a common theme in her posts, shows that she is a hands-on parent. The comment put their relationship in a positive light while she was still dealing with the loss of her pregnancy and the public’s attention.
That help has become public. When Sims was trolled online for a bikini photo, Brooks Koepka stood up for her, pushing back against the mean comments and saying he respected her choices. Their relationship shows clear support for each other through both good and bad times.
PGA Tour Split in Two as Golfer Takes a Blunt Shot at New CEO Over Insulting Brooks Koepka Return
Brooks Koepka is back on the PGA Tour, but not everyone is rolling out the welcome mat, sparking a firestorm that has the Tour’s new CEO in the crosshairs. The recent one comes in the column, “The Undercover Pro: How a lot of us feel about Brooks coming back,” written by an anonymous PGA Tour Pro in Golf Digest, the waters have only become muddier.
“Another thing that I do find annoying is the inflated ‘money lost’ aspect of Brooks’ penalty. We’ve been told Brooks is surrendering upward of $90 million by coming back. Some of that is real cash with known values for FedEx Cup bonuses and charity donations, but a lot of it is theoretical in player equity. Sorry to roll my eyes, but remember the nine figures he already pocketed for playing three years at LIV? That $90 million number is an insult to our intelligence,” the column noted.
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Under the Returning Member Program, Koepka faces a $5 million charitable donation and a five-year forfeiture of potential equity grants. He also cannot get sponsor exemptions for signature events. While the Tour projects these losses between $50-$90 million, these are future earnings and not certain to happen. Contrarily, Koepka pocketed a signing bonus exceeding $100 million in 2022 from LIV. Additionally, he made approximately $60-70M during his time there.
For a golfer whose future was already uncertain with the ongoing changes of the PGA Tour’s scarcity model and only more affected by this sudden homecoming, a penalty comprised of unearned, theoretical future equity only looks good on paper but doesn’t equate to the actual liquid capital Koepka had already secured from LIV. And here all credit goes to the Tour Commissioner Brian Rolapp.
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“However, I give Brian Rolapp [PGA Tour CEO] credit here. Why? If reunification ever materializes, the biggest challenge will be managing how LIV guys return. Many won’t have status, so how do you bring them back without inherently punishing those who stayed loyal? We don’t really need anyone from LIV Golf except for a handful of players. Rolapp’s advantage is that he’s new and can remake things as he sees fit.”
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The PGA Tour-LIV Golf merger has been long pending, with no real updates for a substantial time. The chances for it to ever get real are low, honestly, but if it does, now the Tour has a pathway (subject to change, probably after the merger) for LIV golfers like Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm to return.
Now, if the same decision had been taken under the leadership of the former commissioner Jay Monahan, according to the pro, who was often seen as reactive and intent on trying to appease every faction during the LIV uprising, Brooks would still be in limbo, but Rolapp wanted Brooks, so he got Brooks.
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But not everyone shares Rolapp’s enthusiasm for a frictionless return or still feels the same about Koepka’s smooth return. Wyndham Clark expressed his thoughts strongly.
“If you would have 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.”
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Analyst Brandel Chamblee was also vocal. Chamblee previously argued that allowing a ‘frictionless’ return for Koepka undermines the meritocratic foundation of the Tour. He also added that Koepka was a marquee legitimizer of LIV. And allowing him to return without severe consequences sends a message that goes against the Tour. So he initially argued for a suspension or a requirement for Koepka to re-qualify through the Korn Ferry Tour or Monday Q’s.
Many pros have publicly accepted or even welcomed Koepka’s return, too.
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Not everyone has a problem with Brooks Koepka’s return
For instance, Billy Horschel stated he had no problem with it. Other veterans, such as Fred Couples and Max Homa, took to social media with simple welcoming messages like “Welcome home” and “Welcome back, Brooks!”
A large number of fans have also been remarkably positive. At the Farmers Insurance Open, Koepka was greeted with significant enthusiasm rather than heckling. His wife, Jena Sims, also responded recently about the positive welcome back of the five-time major champion.
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“Extremely positive. People have been 100% welcoming, from a wife’s standpoint, and also people in the gallery,” Sims said.
Even the most influential voice in the game, Tiger Woods, has recently weighed in on the situation. During recent discussions at the Genesis Invitational regarding the Tour’s upcoming scarcity model and competitive structure, Woods described Koepka’s return as a win for everyone. He emphasized that fans demanded the best players compete together. And here they have that with a world-class talent like Koepka back in the field alongside Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy.
In the end, the identity of the ‘Undercover Pro’ remains a mystery. But with some more days passing, we are likely to see more direct comments from golfers, perhaps with names attached. For now, 5x major winner is set to play at the Cognizant Classic in the Palm Beaches.
Justin Thomas Opens Up About His Biggest Challenge Ahead of PGA Tour Comeback After Injury
It’s been more than 150 days since Justin Thomas played competitively on a golf course. His herniated disc surgery is all healed, and he is set to return at the 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational, but it won’t be without challenges.
“A course, really, like any, is the adjustment. But I would say it’ll just be a lot of little stuff,” Thomas told the media. “I’ve been able to practice pretty normally for at least a month, I feel like, or maybe not quite that much, so I’m trying to play a lot more. But I’ll still run into situations I haven’t been in in a while. It was my first time playing, hitting it in a fairway bunker, and I haven’t hit a fairway bunker shot in like four months or something. Just trying to play and get out there as often as I can.”
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Throughout the 2025 season, Thomas battled what he initially thought to be a nagging issue with his right hip. He first noticed the discomfort in the weeks leading up to the Masters, but he broke a three-year winless drought at the RBC Heritage in April 2025. His victory and eight top-10 finishes allowed him to take a break and not compete in the fall. But the physical toll was mounting.
After the 2025 Ryder Cup in September, the symptoms worsened, which led to an MRI that revealed a herniated disc in his lower spine. After a surgery in November 2025, Thomas was placed under strict “BLT” restrictions (no bending, lifting, or twisting). So, he had to miss the start of the 2026 season to heal.
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Thomas shared updates during this period, emphasizing the patience and advice he got from Jim Furyk.
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“No one has ever come back from an injury too late,” Furyk told him.
By January 2026, he began building back strength in the gym and hitting short irons, eventually receiving official clearance for all golf activity in February. Now, as Thomas prepares for his return, he understands that nearly five months have passed since he last felt the pressure of competitive golf. And he is not entering Bay Hill with the immediate expectation of a victory. Instead, he views next week as a vital step to regain his form.
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This measured approach also comes from his mixed results at Bay Hill. Thomas finished T36 with a 3-over-par total last season here, and his best recent result at the event was a T12 finish in 2024. The only comfort Thomas finds in his return is that Bay Hill Club & Lodge is designed to test the entire field, not just those coming off surgery.
“But at least everybody else will be struggling with me at Bay Hill, so that’ll make me feel a little bit better, hopefully,” Thomas noted.
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Bay Hill is one of the toughest stops on the PGA Tour. In 2025, Russell Henley won the event with just a score of 11-under par, narrowly beating Collin Morikawa. And several others, like Viktor Hovland, Max Homa, Sahith Theegala, and Min Woo Lee, missed the cuts. The 2026 field remains equally deep.
But it is not just Thomas’s return to the API field in 2026 that’s catching all the attention. Jordan Spieth is also back in the field after a tumultuous year involving eligibility fights.
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Will Justin Thomas’s return be outshined by Jordan Spieth’s exemption drama?
In 2025, Jordan Spieth and Rickie Fowler finished beyond the top 50 in the FedEx Cup standings and needed help to enter the tournament. They both wrote formal letters to the API committee asking for a chance to play, but they were famously denied sponsor exemptions into the API field.
The reactions to that snub were starkly different from Fowler and Spieth. Rickie Fowler took a humble stance, simply saying, “Play better… play well, and that’ll take care of it.” Spieth, however, offered a frosty response.
“I’m bummed not to be there next week. It’s been a great, great place for me, and I really wish I was getting that start, but I needed to play better injured golf last year, I guess,” Spieth said.
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Fast forward to 2026, and the situation has shifted. Rickie Fowler earned his way back on merit. He finished the 2025 season ranked 48th in the FedExCup after a T6 finish at the FedEx St. Jude Championship, securing his spot in all 2026 Signature Events. Jordan Spieth, however, remains in the same precarious position. After finishing 61st in the 2025 FedEx Cup standings, he once again missed the eligibility criteria.
Tiger Woods’ Unseen Moment With GF Vanessa Trump Caught on Camera at $20M PGA Tour Event
Tiger Woods confirmed his relationship with Vanessa Trump in March 2025. And he did it on his terms: one post, two photos, and one request for privacy. For nearly a year, that held. Then the 2026 Genesis Invitational happened, and for only the second time since going public, Woods, Vanessa, and Kai were all in the same frame.
Journalist John Zeigler shared a clip on X where we could see Woods, Vanessa, and Kai clicking pictures at the $20 million event. It was initially the couple in love in the frame, smiling ear to ear, with Vanessa leaning in. Kai joined them seconds later. John even quipped that Woods could get a Grand Old Party ticket for 2036, given his relationship with the Trumps, both Vanessa and POTUS.
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This was not the first time the three had been spotted together at this specific tournament. Back in February 2025, at the Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines, Tiger Woods arrived with Kai Trump at his side, and Vanessa was seen nearby. It was one of the earliest confirmed signs that what had been a rumored connection around Thanksgiving 2024 had quietly grown into something real, as reported by People magazine at the time.
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That sighting set the tone for what followed. In January 2026, both Vanessa and Kai attended Woods’s 50th birthday charity event in Palm Beach, Florida. Kai shared photos on Instagram from the night, dressed for the occasion and visibly part of the inner circle. The event supported the golfer’s charitable work through the TGR Foundation and was not a casual appearance.
The support has not been limited to in-person appearances. In February 2026, when Woods posted about the 20th anniversary of the TGR Learning Lab in Anaheim, which has served over 217,000 students, Vanessa did not comment. She simply liked the post shared by the official TGR Learning Labs handle, showing quiet support, consistent with how she has operated throughout this relationship.
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When Woods celebrated Jacob Bridgeman’s win as the Genesis Invitational’s 100th champion on Instagram, Vanessa was among the first to respond. She liked the post and reshared it, a small but deliberate act that did not go unnoticed by those following the couple closely.
Vanessa’s deflection and Tiger Woods’ own words together paint a couple that is serious but deliberately keeping its boundaries intact.
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Tiger Woods, Vanessa, and the moments nobody scheduled
In a Valentine’s Day YouTube video posted February 15, 2026, Kai invited Vanessa to decorate cookies while slipping in fan questions about the relationship. Vanessa dodged it cheekily, telling Kai that she wasn’t born yesterday.
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That same video had another moment worth noting. Kai revealed that Vanessa has beaten her at putting more than once. Vanessa, who describes herself as a tennis player rather than a golfer, admitted she spends a lot of time practicing her putting.
That connection between Woods and Kai has gone beyond casual family interaction. Before her LPGA debut at The ANNIKA in November 2025, Woods told her to just go with the flow and not overthink it.
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All these moments, and the moment at Riviera, were not planned. It was simply the latest sign of something that has been building steadily for over a year.
How to buy 2026 NASCAR Cup Series tickets
David Hoffman
USA TODAY
Feb. 23, 2026, 3:29 p.m. CT
The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season includes 36 points-paying races.
This guide explains how to buy tickets for every NASCAR Cup Series event in 2026, along with crucial information about each race.
The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season draws plenty of intrigue as stock car’s finest aim for glory and the chance at a Cup Series Championship.
From the staples of Darlington (S.C.) Raceway and Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway to the twists and turns of Watkins Glen (N.Y.) Int’l and Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway, the series presents a wide variety of tracks that ensures the champion truly conquered all.
New this season includes the reintroduction of
How to buy 2026 NASCAR Cup Series tickets
David Hoffman
USA TODAY
Feb. 23, 2026, 4:29 p.m. ET
The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season includes 36 points-paying races.
This guide explains how to buy tickets for every NASCAR Cup Series event in 2026, along with crucial information about each race.
The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season draws plenty of intrigue as stock car’s finest aim for glory and the chance at a Cup Series Championship.
From the staples of Darlington (S.C.) Raceway and Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway to the twists and turns of Watkins Glen (N.Y.) Int’l and Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway, the series presents a wide variety of tracks that ensures the champion truly conquered all.
New this season includes the reintroduction of
Dale Jr.’s NASCAR Prospect Drops Blunt Reality Check on American Driving Awareness After Bizarre Highway Moment
Rajah Caruth has seen some brutal crashes up front on the track. His driving in Atlanta saved him from a lot of them. However, even Mark Martin’s favorite couldn’t fathom how American drivers end up creating wrecks on the road. While talking about his driving experience on regular roads, Caruth, as a racer, ended up giving a brutal but important reality check about safety and awareness.
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Rajah Caruth rebukes drivers for a lack of common sense
As a motorsports driver, Caruth has a lot of skill and amazing reaction time. But as a regular person on the road, Caruth doesn’t need his superhuman level of reaction time. Over there, he simply applies common sense, something that he expects from his fellow drivers as well.
During one of the episodes of The Morning Hustle show, Rajah Caruth laments the present condition of drivers. He was asked if the general public and roads frustrate him as a racing driver. And his answer was completely unexpected.
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“The frustrating part isn’t the speed, but the general IQ of the people is very low. I am not trying to call people stupid, but what I think is common sense for driving is not universal. So, I have to remind myself to be patient because not everybody—very few people—races or drives. And really, the level of awareness is not always there.”
Caruth goes on to solidify his claim with a very common example.
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“Literally, I was driving down 75, and I took the domestic airport exit, and I saw a fender bender right in front of me. In the opposite lane, somebody tried to merge and didn’t see that they were stopped. With multiple cars in front of them, they were slowing down and trying to merge and gain an open spot.
“And then they stopped and hit the back of the other person. And I was like, ‘Why did that just happen?’ I literally saw that happening. It literally was in slow motion.”
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This is something that many of us witness in our daily lives. As Caruth mentions, it is easily avoidable. If people were a little more considerate towards their own and others’ safety, they would not get careless on the road. On that topic, Caruth also gave the audience an important lesson on safe driving.
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As a NASCAR driver, Rajah Caruth is accustomed to speed. But what happens when he has to drive on regular roads under the speed limit? The podcast host asked him the same question. His response explains how closely he follows the general rules of driving.
“Honestly, the speed limit doesn’t drive me crazy because you aren’t, like, looking at the speed when you are driving in the race car. We don’t know how fast we are going. There’s not a speedometer; there’s just the RPM.”
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Not only is Rajah Caruth an example for drivers on public roads, but also for his fellow competitors.
Bubba Wallace hails Rajah Caruth as personal inspiration
Bubba Wallace is trying to make a name for himself in the NASCAR Cup Series with 23XI Racing. His 2026 season is already off to a great start. He might not have won the two races, but his driving has put him in P2 in the drivers’ standings.
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With the 2026 season focusing heavily on consistency, Wallace is gearing up for a very good start to his current season. And if we ask him about his inspiration this year, then the answer is going to be very simple. For Bubba Wallace, his young protégé Rajah Caruth is setting an example.
“You know who I learned a lot from? It was Rajah yesterday. He had a fast, bad car, and he finished second at the first stage and won the second stage just like me. And I was like, this car is so fast. Don’t do anything to jeopardize a good finish. And I hate that we didn’t get the win, but all in all, I appreciate Xfinity.”
Wallace’s words add to the spotlight that is coming Caruth’s way after his racing impressed multiple veterans on Saturday. Caruth may not have won Atlanta, but he was on fire yesterday with his racecraft.
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Jesse Love Joins Cup Series Field for COTA; Full Entry List
NASCAR has officially released the preliminary entry list for Sunday’s DuraMax Texas Grand Prix Powered by RelaDyne at Circuit of The Americas (COTA), the third event of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series campaign and the first of four scheduled road course events.
Among those on the entry list for Sunday’s event in Austin, Texas, are the 36 drivers who are piloting Chartered Entries full-time at NASCAR’s top-level this season. These cars are guaranteed a spot in the field for every event in 2026, and would be even if there were more entries than spots available in the field.
Here are the 36 Chartered Entries that are locked into the field for the 2026 DuraMax Texas Grand Prix Powered by RelaDyne, but they will still have to qualify for their starting spots in a group qualifying session taking place on Saturday, February 28.
All 36 of the entries listed below have announced full-time drivers for the season, so this list will not change on a week-to-week basis, barring some kind of extenuating circumstance.
Open Entries
There are 37 drivers on the preliminary entry list for the DuraMax Texas Grand Prix Powered by RelaDyne, which means that alongside the 36 Chartered Entries that take the green flag each week, there is one brave soul who will join them.
Defending NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series champion Jesse Love is entered in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series event at Circuit of The Americas (COTA), driving the No. 33 C4 Ultimate Energy Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for Richard Childress Racing.
RELATED: Defending O’Reilly Champ Love to Make First Cup Start of 2026 at COTA
Love made his debut in the NASCAR Cup Series last Spring at Bristol Motor Speedway with Richard Childress Racing. Throughout the course of the year, the Menlo Park, California-native made five starts between RCR and Beard Motorsports, where he recorded a best finish of 24th-place in the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Circuit of The Americas is the first of
NASCAR Community Heaps Praise on Kyle Busch for Heartwarming Atlanta Gesture
We all love our respective racing icons, but nothing beats the feeling of meeting them in person. That is exactly what some 5th-graders of Atlanta got to witness. Kyle Busch ended up visiting a high school classroom in a surprise appearance on his way to EchoPark Speedway. Before his racing weekend started, Busch brought forth immeasurable excitement to the kids with the help of his sponsor, Cheddar’s Kitchen.
In a video shared by theracingteacher_ga (Ms. Smallwood), the teacher mentions a special guest who is about to visit the children. Moments later, Kyle Busch enters the classroom, greeting the children with a big smile. The children were already excited to meet him in person after hearing his accolades from their classmate.
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Busch’s actions have left the fans in awe of his humility and down-to-earth nature. They are more than happy to witness Richard Childress Racing inspire other children. The post also reveals that not only did Busch visit the children, but he also showed interest in their activities.
“We got to play some fun games with Kyle and even show off some race cars we made! We are so grateful to Cheddar’s and Kyle Busch for investing in our students and taking time out of their day to be with us! It is a memory they truly will never forget!”
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With Cheddar’s Kitchen backing him up on his visit, Busch also had some gifts prepared for the children.
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“Cheddar’s brought us a delicious snack with their signature croissants and Cheddar’s race day gear! The biggest surprise was that they gifted each student a $50 gift card!”
It is a heartfelt gesture that got sweeter because of his genuine interest in the miniature cars that the children made. His visit to the classroom is attracting a lot of attention from fans. They can’t help but appreciate him for his efforts with the children.
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NASCAR community can’t help but love Kyle Busch
Even though his recent seasons in NASCAR aren’t going well, Kyle Busch did not forget to put on his best smile for the anticipating children. His demeanor was complimented by one of the fans, who reminded the community of his victory becoming better.
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“And he won! Heck yeah! Love seeing this!” The others joined him, congratulating him on his victory and correlating it directly to his karma from the good he did with the children. “Awesome, and you witnessed him win the truck race as well! Awesome!”
Many fans were of the opinion that Kyle Busch and Richard Childress Racing were doing an amazing job with their fan outreach. “This is so cool!”
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As one user said, “That is so incredible for those kids. Major props to Richard Childress Racing and Kyle Busch.”
One of the other fans even wished to join the kids in their classroom adventure. “I love this. I would’ve loved to be in a class like this.” Busch’s actions go on to prove how close he is with children.
Both Kyle and Samantha Busch have put in efforts tirelessly for the betterment of families and couples. Busch may not have attained much success on the track lately, but he is getting successful at earning a spot in the community’s hearts.
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With a lot of innocent hopes riding on his shoulders and with immense fan support, Busch will look forward to reversing his NASCAR downfall at COTA.
Bubba Wallace Missed Out on NASCAR Win in Atlanta
Bubba Wallace was in prime position to win his fourth career NASCAR Cup Series race on Sunday in Atlanta. The driver of the No. 23 was in command as the field took the green flag for an overtime restart.
Sitting behind Wallace on the inside line was his 23XI Racing teammate Tyler Reddick. Occupying the outside was Carson Hocevar in the No. 77 with Ross Chastain’s No. 1 in toe.
As the field raced off of turn two, Wallace jumped to the high line in attempt to block the run of Hocevar, to which the latter pulled to the inside and made it a three-wide battle with Reddick as the first car occupying the inside line.
The move left Wallace with no drafting help and shuffled him out of the race for the lead. Reddick would go on to win the race, while Wallace had to settle for an eighth-place finish.
Once again, Wallace was in position to win on a drafting track, but left EchoPark Speedway without a trophy.
Bubba Wallace after finishing eighth at EchoPark Speedway: “What could’ve been”
Wallace was in contention to win all day Sunday. The Alabama native led 46 laps, finished runner-up in stage one, and picked up the stage two victory. However, his late-race move proved to have cost him in the end.
As he reflected on the finish with FOX motorsports reporter Josh Sims, Wallace looked at the positives of the race, such as his teammate winning. Yet, he couldn’t overlook what could’ve been.
“I’m just pumped that Toyota still got to victory lane. I need to go back and see. I didn’t think I moved up that much to put myself up top of three. So, unfortunate, but man, what a race car we had today,” Wallace said.
Wallace went on to say he learned a lot from watching Rajah Caruth in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race the day before. Like Wallace, Caruth finished second in stage one and won stage two in the Saturday race.
With such a fast car, Wallace said he didn’t want to risk giving up a solid finish in an attempt to win. Despite that, he couldn’t shake the fact of how close he came to victory.
“I’m like, ‘This car is so fast. Don’t do anything to jeopardize a good finish.’ I hate that we didn’t get the win, but all in all, I appreciate Xfinity. Man, what could’ve been,” Wallace said.
Bubba Wallace enters CoTA second in the Cup Series standings
Despite falling short of a win at EchoPark Speedway, Bubba Wallace is off to a great start in 2026. With a pair of top-1o finishes coupled with two stage wins, Wallace finds himself second in the Cup Series standings behind points leader Reddick.
With his performance on Sunday in Atlanta, Wallace jumped six positions in the standings to be runner-up heading into this weekend’s race at Circuit of the Americas (CoTA). Wallace has five starts at the track with a best finish of 15th in 2024.
Wallace has shown improvement on road courses overall. In the last two road-course races, Wallace posted a 15th-place finish at the Charlotte Roval and an eighth-place effort at Watkins Glen.
Deadly House Fire Involving Denny Hamlin’s Parents Ruled Accidental
Officials have released new details surrounding the North Carolina house fire that killed NASCAR Driver Denny Hamlin‘s father and injured his mother.
Gaston County spokesperson Adam Gaub revealed the blaze was ruled accidental in a newly released email reported on by NBC News on Friday, February 20.
A report released by Gaston County Emergency Management & Fire Services determined the “cause of ignition” is “undetermined,” although it was clarified the blaze started in a bedroom.
Hamlin’s parents, Dennis and Mary Lou Hamlin, suffered catastrophic injuries and were found outside the two-story, four-bedroom home that went up in flames on December 28, 2025. Dennis, 75, tragically died, while his wife, who was in critical condition, miraculously survived.
The fire took nearly two hours to extinguish due to a lack of water in the area, WCNC reported.
Denny recently broke his silence about losing his father so suddenly during an interview with Fox News ahead of the Daytona 500 on February 15, revealing he remembered the moment he found out about the blaze.
“I got a call from my sister that said the parents’ house is on fire, the whole house is gone,” he shared with the outlet. “My mom took him from the bedroom to outside in the front yard. I was just driving so fast to try to get there and they said they had already been taken to the hospital.”
“What made it real was seeing my dad. I saw him laying there after he had passed, I just knew that it was real in that moment. Obviously I saw how burned he was and, you know, at that time I felt for my mom,” he added. “She saw it all first-hand.”
Dennis had been facing health struggles prior to the fire after being diagnosed with late-stage Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, according to the famous race car driver.
Denny said that he was “confident” that his dad was looking down from heaven in pride with his best friend, George, claiming they were “going to watch me race on Sunday for another Daytona 500.” Mary Lou was able to see her son race amid her road to recovery.
Back in September 2025, Denny gushed about how supportive his father was as he chased his dreams. “He was just so happy and he always tells me I’m the best, no matter if I win or not, he always says I’m the best,” Denny told reporters after his 60th career victory, according to the Associated Press.
“He’s the one that got me into racing and took me to a racetrack when I was five,” Denny fondly recalled. “Then made all the sacrifices financially to keep me going, sold everything we had, we almost lost our house a couple times to just try to keep it going.”
Plus, Dennis also made sure to celebrate each and every one of his accomplishments.
“He’s a big hype guy and I sat in his garage and talked with him, he’s got all my old memorabilia and it’s just good to reminisce,” Denny shared. “He’s a reminiscent guy and right now I am just cherishing those hours that I have with them each week.”
‘Dale Earnhardt Could Never’: Denny Hamlin Risks NASCAR Fury While Praising His 23XI Driver’s Atlanta Glory
Yesterday, waves of shock and admiration rocked NASCAR. The Autotrader 400 at EchoPark Speedway featured a number of wrecks and pile-ups en route to its conclusion. Most of the NASCAR Cup Series field was caught up in this mess, including Denny Hamlin’s 23XI Racing driver. However, that did not stop the latter from going back-to-back with two wins. And the way he did it compelled his team owner to be bold – elevate him above Dale Earnhardt.
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Dale Earnhardt gets a challenge
“Dale Earnhardt could never,” Denny Hamlin said on ‘Actions Detrimental’. He added, “Just kidding. Um, but remember Dale’s big thing was 18th to 3rd. I think Tyler’s happened in a much shorter amount of time. I love it. The people are just going to get so triggered.”
Tyler Reddick won the race at EchoPark Speedway, just a week after bagging the Daytona 500. After starting from pole position, the No. 45 Toyota driver led a race-best 53 of the 271 laps. But during the final laps of the race, Reddick was buried mid-field.
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Multiple crashes ensued then, sparked by Denny Hamlin, William Byron, Carson Hocevar, and others. A multi-car wreck in the final stage also collected Reddick, which damaged his car. His team had to put heavy tape on the front end without fully repairing it. But by the end of it all, Reddick was leading to the victory.
According to Denny Hamlin, this win deserves a comparison with none other than Dale Earnhardt Sr. The Intimidator owns nine victories at Atlanta’s track. But his 2000 victory in Talladega most closely resembles Reddick’s win. With five laps left, he was outside the top 15, with the right side of his Chevrolet battered. Yet Dale Sr. cut a path forward, taking the lead at the white flag and driving off with the race win.
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Denny Hamlin continued about Tyler Reddick, “It was amazing to watch. Uh, he got to the front really, really quickly. And yeah, as long as you can keep your bumper, like the fender is not that important. As long as you can keep your front bumper intact, the fender over the tire usually doesn’t mean a ton because it hits the front bumper and then it goes over the car.” He added, “But it looked like it just kind of broke in a really advantageous area where uh it didn’t affect his handling too much.”
Tyler Reddick may be treading the Intimidator’s path. However, Denny Hamlin feels that there is a long way to go for both of his drivers.
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Cautiously applauding the progress
Tyler Reddick’s double whammy was the foremost proof of 23XI Racing’s success. However, Bubba Wallace also showed how competitive Michael Jordan’s team can be. During the Daytona 500, the No. 23 Toyota led for 40 laps despite ending up 10th by the end. In Atlanta, Wallace bagged points with a P2 in Stage 1 and followed it up by winning Stage 2. And he could have won the race if not for a Carson Hocevar mishap.
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Both Reddick’s and Wallace’s winning moves elicited praise from the public. Some fans even questioned if 23XI Racing is finally on par with the top-tier Cup Series teams like Hendrick Motorsports. But Denny Hamlin was cautious.
When asked if 23XI is in the ‘big three’, Denny Hamlin said, “It’s too early for that.” He continued, “I mean, we’re many wins and championships away from that. There’s no question that we’re building fast cars and cars that are capable of winning week in, week out. We don’t always hit the setup or things like that, but we’re working hard.”
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“This team being nonexistent six years ago is just amazing that we’re able to do what we did with building this thing from scratch and now having the results week in, week out that is contending with the big guys.”
Clearly, Denny Hamlin sees a long road ahead for his drivers. But the good work is encouraging nonetheless – let’s see if Dale Earnhardt gets a true match.
Shane Van Gisbergen’s Meteoric Rise Gets Hollywood Treatment as NASCAR Announces New Documentary
Not since 1963 has a driver won their Cup Series debut, but Shane Van Gisbergen didn’t just win, he rewrote the script. Other than breaking road course records and finally finding his footing on oval speedways, SVG has proved that international talent can belong in NASCAR. And now, the Kiwi will get the recognition he deserves.
Now, his rise to NASCAR stardom will be available worldwide, thanks to a new documentary produced in partnership with SafetyCulture, SVG’s rise to NASCAR will be available worldwide. The partnership with the organization now reaches a new level with Runaway Kiwi, a documentary produced in partnership with NASCAR that puts the 36-year-old’s meteoric rise in the spotlight.
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Debuting February 27 during the COTA event on both the NASCAR channel and NASCAR’s YouTube, the film promises a behind-the-scenes look at how a three-time Supercars champ from Auckland became one of NASCAR’s most buzzed-about drivers. It is a fitting tribute to the unique journey. SVG has carved one that has turned heads, not just for his results but for the story behind them.
Moreover, SVG’s partnership with SafetyCulture has been more than just a logo on a car; it’s become part of his cross-continental racing journey. The New Zealand-born star first teamed up with the organization in 2024 when he made the bold leap from dominating supercars to chasing NASCAR glory, and the relationship has grown ever since.
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The tech firm backed his early NASCAR starts across Xfinity and Cup events, even carrying his colors on his Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet at races like Bristol, Talladega, and the Daytona Cup event, while also supporting teammate Ross Chastain in select outings.
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For SVG, having a familiar brand from his Aussie and Kiwi racing roots ride shotgun in NASCAR has been a welcome bit of continuity as he adjusted to the rough and tumble of American stock car competition.
And the documentary is no small deal. The SVG buzz in NASCAR didn’t come by accident; it exploded the moment he hit American soil. After making headlines with a stunning Cup Series win in his NASCAR debut at the Grant Park 220 in Chicago in 2023, a feat that made him one of the sport’s most talked-about newcomers.
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Along the way, he not only became the first New Zealander to win in the Cup Series but also the winningest non-American in its history, combining his Supercars pedigree with a fearless approach that had fans and teams alike doing double takes.
By the end of his 2025 full-time rookie season, the accolades kept piling up: five wins, a playoff berth, and Sunoco Rookie of the Year honors, largely fuelled by near-total dominance on road courses and steady improvement on ovals.
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This blend of immediate impact, tireless development, and compelling personality is exactly why runaway Kiwi feels like the perfect way to capture this chapter of his career and why the noise around SVG is only growing louder.
Despite the new documentary, SVG remains focused on the track, particularly the upcoming road course race at COTA.
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SVG is ready to pull a double-duty at COTA
SVG’s double-duty weekend at COTA is shaping up to be a historic test of skill and stamina. He will race both the Cup Series and the Xfinity Series with JR Motorsports on the same weekend at Circuit of the Americas, splitting focus between two competitive fields on the 3.41-mile road course.
That means back-to-back days behind the wheel—Xfinity qualifying and racing on Saturday, followed by Cup Series qualifying on the main event Sunday, demanding not just pace but physical and mental endurance from a driver already known for his relentless work ethic and laser focus.
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Moreover, his No. 97 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet Camaro will be impossible to miss in the paddock with the striking purple paint, a visual signature of the continued backing from SafetyCulture that has helped fuel his transition to NASCAR.
“Last season was unforgettable, and we wouldn’t have achieved so much success without SafetyCulture,” he said. “They helped keep our team prepared and focused, so we could show up every weekend and compete for wins. SafetyCulture was a big part of my racing career in New Zealand and Australia, and to have their continued support on my NASCAR journey is special.”
However, at COTA specifically, SVG has already shown he belongs near the front of the pack. In the 2025 Cup race, he was one of the strongest cars on the track, topping practice sessions and earning a sixth-place finish while leading laps and running near the front for much of the day.
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COTA’s high speeds and tight corners demand perfect rhythm from any driver. By taking on double-duty and generating Hollywood-level buzz with a new documentary, SVG is giving fans a clear taste of why he’s one of the most exciting talents on the NASCAR calendar.
NASCAR Insider Doubts Joe Gibbs’ Allegations Against Denny Hamlin’s Ex-Crew Chief Amidst Lawsuit
The seas have parted within Joe Gibbs Racing. The top-tier NASCAR Cup Series team found itself at a crossroads with its former employee. Denny Hamlin’s ex-crew chief, Chris Gabehart, led the team to many victories and successful seasons. But as his winning drive has shifted to another team, a JGR lawsuit has been launched against an alleged theft of information. Yet the allegations did not convince a NASCAR insider.
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Too smart for the JGR lawsuit
“If he was going to take anything, use anything, Chris Gabehart’s plenty smart enough and educated enough to know how to do things on his own, right? No, especially being around there and seeing all the processes that go into building the car. I mean, you don’t have to have that on a computer of someone as smart as Chris to put that in your memory bank and bring it over to wherever else you’re going,” Tommy Baldwin Jr. said on ‘Door, Bumper, Clear.’
Last Thursday, Joe Gibbs filed a lawsuit in the Western District of North Carolina. He accused his team’s former competition director and Denny Hamlin’s ex-crew chief, Chris Gabehart, of sharing confidential information with Spire Motorsports. The JGR lawsuit alleges that trade secrets could include racecar setups, simulation models, pit crew metrics, fuel strategies, performance analytics, and internal processes.
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But according to Tommy Baldwin Jr., competition director at Rick Ware Racing, these allegations have loopholes. According to the $8 million JGR lawsuit, an investigation found that Gabehart set up a folder on his computer, named ‘Spire’. It was in his personal cloud storage, which also carried the team details. However, Baldwin claims that for a talented person like Gabehart, who guided Denny Hamlin to 22 victories, storing such information was hardly necessary.
“He doesn’t have to write it down to remember the setup. It’s not like it’s not rocket science,” Baldwin said. “The whole win is the car getting put together. It’s not like it’s the product getting put together. The setup’s the setup, but how the car goes together is the win, right? How it’s prepared. So, he still knows all that. He’s been over there for years. He understands all the processes.”
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Yet Tommy Baldwin understood the JGR lawsuit’s argument as well. “Toyota does a lot of confidential information and contracts, and stuff. They try to protect their stuff. They’re a little bit different than pretty much the other manufacturers.” He continued, “I mean, they put millions and millions and millions of dollars into the sport, and they don’t want that type of information going to another manufacturer.”
Nevertheless, Chris Gabehart is gearing up for a solid legal response.
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The lawsuit battle is underway
Chris Gabehart left Joe Gibbs‘ fold in December 2025 and is now headed to Spire. However, Gabehart is ready to settle his scores before starting his new journey. On Friday, he publicly denied the team’s allegations and accused his former employer of filing a “spiteful” and “retaliatory” lawsuit.
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Gabehart disputed the claims by stating that a third-party forensic specialist’s investigation into his phone, laptop, and personal Google drive found no evidence corroborating the JGR lawsuit’s allegations.
According to insider reports, three attorneys have already filed notices to appear in court as Chris Gabehart’s legal representation. They include Cary B. Davis, Anna Claire Tucker, and Spencer T. Wiles. All three possess “A class” resumes with expertise in cases involving NASCAR, arbitrations in professional sports and entertainment, and internal probes.
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“We even offered JGR the opportunity to do a similar review of Spire’s systems,” Chris Gabehart said. “JGR refused that offer and filed this spiteful lawsuit instead. Stay tuned. We will have much more to say in the legal response we will be filing in the coming days.”
Well, this seems like the beginning of another feisty, blood-letting legal battle. We can only wait and see how the JGR lawsuit unfolds.
Shop the official 2026 New Era MLB clubhouse collection at Fanatics
The 2026 MLB clubhouse headwear collection has been released on Fanatics.
This official New Era headwear is designed to keep players cool and comfortable.
The collection launch coincides with the start of spring training and the upcoming MLB season.
Spring training games are underway, the World Baseball Classic is coming up and the MLB season is just around the corner. So even if you’re in a part of the U.S. expecting yet another freeze this week, you can gear up for the ballpark days this summer with the 2026 MLB clubhouse headwear collection launch at Fanatics.
The official New Era 2026 clubhouse headwear is designed to keep players cool and comfortable before they head onto the field. It’s an iconic design that works at the ballpark or on the street for fans. My favorite feature is the silicone logo on top of the bill. And, really, do you need another excuse to buy a new hat this season?
Here is a look at the 2026 MLB Cluhouse headwear collection at Fanatics:
Shop the MLB clubhouse headwear launch at Fanatics
New York Yankees 2026 Clubhouse hat
Los Angeles Dodgers 2026 Clubhouse hat
Boston Red Sox 2026 Clubhouse hat
Detroit Tigers 2026 clubhouse hat
Chicago Cubs 2026 clubhouse hat
MLB spring training hats are here, check out all 30 and get yours now
When does the 2026 MLB season start?
Spring training 2026 is underway now, with pitchers and catchers reporting in mid-February and games officially kicking off on Friday, Feb. 20. The World Baseball Classic will take place this March as well, with games taking place starting on Thursday, March 5 and running until the final on Tuesday, March 17.
Former Mets Gold Glove winner retires from MLB after 10 seasons
Former New York Mets Gold Glove award-winning center fielder Juan Lagares has retired from MLB after 10 seasons.
Lagares, 36, announced his retirement in a series of posts to his Instagram. He last played in MLB for the Los Angeles Angels in 2022.
A native of Constanza, Dominican Republic, Lagares spent the past four seasons playing for the Dominican Winter League’s Águilas Cibaeñas, where he served as team captain.
“THANK YOU, JUAN LAGARES! THE CAPTAIN,” the Cibaeñas wrote in an Instagram post. “Your legacy is not measured in numbers, but in respect, effort, and greatness. This will always be your home!”
Lagares signed with the Mets as an international free agent at age 17 in May 2006. He made his MLB debut in 2013 and played his first eight MLB seasons with the Mets from 2013-20. He won the National League Gold Glove Award for center field in 2014, and that season recorded single-season career-highs on offense with 117 hits, 24 doubles, 47 RBI and 13 steals.
After eight seasons in New York, Lagares played his final two seasons with the Angels from 2021-22.
In 10 MLB seasons, Lagares hit .250 with 31 home runs, 217 RBI and a .651 OPS in 850 games played.
The Mets issued a statement wishing Lagares well in retirement.
Red Sox newcomer given honorable mention on MLB insider’s Top 10 third basemen list
The newest Red Sox infielder received an honorable mention from an MLB insider.
Buster Olney released his top 10 third basemen ahead of the 2026 season. Cleveland Guardians’ José Ramirez topped the list, while former Red Sox infielder Alex Bregman came in at No. 3.
Caleb Durbin received an honorable mention.
“Durbin will fit right in with the Red Sox’s push to build a pitching-and-defense team, and like many others in the Boston lineup, he’s good at getting on base (.334 OBP in his rookie season) and putting the ball in play,” Olney wrote.
Durbin came to Boston via trade with the Milwaukee Brewers earlier this month. He’s worked out at third and second base this spring. In 2025, his rookie season, with the Brewers, Durbin hit .256 with 11 home runs, 25 doubles, 53 RBI and 18 stolen bases.
While it’s unclear where Durbin will play come Opening Day, he did start at third in Sunday’s Grapefruit League game against the Toronto Blue Jays.
“I think at this point we’re just excited about getting a really good player into the organization and we’ll figure out where he fits best,” Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow said. “Just doesn’t feel like it makes sense to commit to anything right now. He’s got experience at third base in the big leagues, some experience at second coming up. He’s played a little bit of shortstop. And I think that versatility is something that helps us out, but we’ll figure that out as we get into camp and get underway.”
After Bregman left Boston in free agency for the Chicago Cubs, the Red Sox didn’t have a lot of third base options. Durbin can help fill that void, while also providing experience at second base and shortstop should Trevor Story need a game off.
MLB news: Arte Moreno says winning ‘not in top five’ priorities for Angels fans
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
Los Angeles Angels owner Arte Moreno’s recent comments have the Major League Baseball Players’ Association ticked off.
Moreno was speaking with reporters on Friday when he mentioned that the
“Delusional” Jazz Chisholm Jr. Blasted by Ex-MLB President After Deleted Quote Taking Aim at Dodgers Resurfaces
Jazz Chisholm Jr has never been the one to back off and will always say what comes to his mind. We all remember the time he accused Migule Rojas of wanting Jazz Chisholm Jr. out of the team. That had become a big case where David Samson was involved. But now David Samson is involved in another case.
In his recent video, David Samson talked about Jazz Chisholm Jr’s comment on his contract expectations and the Dodgers.
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Samson said, “What Jazz Chisholm is not confident. It’s not even cocky. It’s not even cocksure. Jazz Chisholm is simply delusional.”
Jazz Chisholm Jr. told NJ.com he wants $35 million per year over 8–10 years when he hits free agency next fall.
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That asking price comes after he hit 31 home runs and stole 31 bases in 2025, giving him a rare 30‑30 season. Fans heard him say he would turn down $25 million a year because he knows he can get more elsewhere.
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In the same interview, he even explained he wants to shoot for a historic 50–50 season in 2026. His confidence in money and goals has stirred loud reactions across baseball circles lately.
Former Miami Marlins president David Samson publicly slammed Chisholm for those big contract demands this week.
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Samson called Chisholm’s thinking “delusional” and questioned whether he had done anything yet to earn that level. Yankees already pay veterans like Aaron Judge and Cody Bellinger big salaries, yet Samson said Jazz must prove it too. Bellinger makes about $32.5 million AAV, while Judge earns even more as a franchise cornerstone.
Samson used those contract examples to stress that money should match sustained production, not just talk.
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Samson also referenced times when Jazz Chisholm Jr. and former Marlins teammate Miguel Rojas did not see eye to eye.
Their tension became public during the 2024 World Series between the Yankees and the Dodgers, making fans remember old wounds. That history gave Samson a moment to slam Chisholm again after the contract talk surfaced.
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Critics said Chisholm needs to show he is worth millions before demanding them loudly. Some fans felt Samson’s comments were a hard reminder of how volatile public words can be.
Chisholm widened the storm by saying he would rather join the Angels than the Dodgers, even if they offered more.
That quote was later deleted from the original article, likely because it sparked heavy backlash. The Los Angeles Dodgers are widely seen as one of the richest, most competitive franchises in baseball.
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Ruling them out publicly could cost leverage in free agency negotiations. Many feel that dismissing a top spender hurts his own market value rather than helping it.
With 2026 set as his audition year, Jazz Chisholm Jr. must back his big words with big performances. He already has one historic season under his belt, but this year could determine his destiny.
If he plays like a true $35 million‑a‑year player, teams will take him seriously next winter. But if his numbers fall short, critics say he may not get close to what he is asking. Fans will watch every swing, steal, and playoff push as it matters for his next contract.
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Jazz Chisholm Jr. wants to earn big bucks, but is he ready to take up more responsibility
Jazz Chisholm Jr. wants a $350 million contract, but for that to happen, he will need to take up a lot more responsibility than he has taken until now. And that might start with him taking the leadoff spot in the lineup.
The New York Yankees must make a key choice about who leads off in 2026 because a strong leadoff hitter sets the tone by getting on base early and making runs feel possible from the first pitch.
Jazz Chisholm Jr. had 31 home runs and 31 stolen bases in 2025, becoming one of the few Yankees ever with a 30‑30 season and showing he can both hit and run at a high level.
Slotting someone like him first isn’t just about speed; it’s about forcing pitchers to deal with a real threat before big bats like Aaron Judge’s even see a strike.
Chisholm’s mix of speed and power means he already impacts games in ways many leadoff hitters can’t, evidenced by his .332 on‑base percentage and ability to disrupt pitchers with 31 steals in 130 games.
Batting ahead of Judge, who hit 53 homers with a .457 on‑base percentage and led the league, could make each Yankees inning feel bigger and more alive for fans. That simple sequence of getting on, creating chaos, and putting pressure on defenses wouldn’t just be a strategy; it would feel like momentum from the opening pitch.
Putting Chisholm first slopes the lineup toward balance by mixing his dynamic play with Judge’s consistent power, rather than stacking slow starts that take time to climb into scoring position. His 31 steals show he doesn’t just run, he changes at‑bats into chances that matter immediately.
That blend of skills could make the Yankees’ offense feel sharper day in and day out, keeping fans on edge from the first batter all the way through the late innings.
Can Emmanuel Rodriguez Hit His Way Onto Twins’ Opening Day Roster?
As things stand right now, Emmanuel Rodriguez is probably on the outside of the Twins’ projected Opening Day roster. The left-handed outfield prospect is dripping with talent, but his odds are hurt by the presence of fellow lefty outfielders Matt Wallner, Trevor Larnach, James Outman, and Alan Roden.
With that said, the four names above aren’t exactly established MLB stars. And if Rodriguez continues to hit the way he has to open spring training, he might just force his way onto the 26-man roster when the regular season rolls around.
Rodriguez hit his first home run of the spring on Sunday. Then he hit another one on Monday. Including the exhibition opener against the Gophers, he’s 4 for 6 with two bombs, two singles, a walk, and a stolen base in his first three games this year in Florida.
The first spring homer for Rodriguez came on a 2-0 pitch from Braves minor-league righty Anderson Pilar. It went 349 feet out to right field.
More impressive is Rodriguez’s homer on Monday, which opened the scoring in the fifth inning of the Twins’ 3-0 win over the Tigers. That one came off of Detroit lefty Brant Hurter, who has a career 2.49 ERA in 108.1 MLB innings. In 190 big-league plate appearances, left-handed hitters have a .559 OPS and one home run off of Hurter. Rodriguez’s blast — which unfortunately wasn’t televised — left his bat at 106.6 miles per hour and traveled 420 feet out to right.
Rodriguez, who turns 23 in less than a week, has always been highly talented. The Dominican Republic native is entering his fourth year as a top-100 prospect in baseball. Since debuting for the Twins in rookie ball in 2021, he’s slashed .254/.424/.488 (.912 OPS) with 50 homers and 59 stolen bases in 295 games.
The biggest issue for Rodriguez is simply staying healthy. He’s only played more than 65 games in a season once, when he played 99 in 2023. First and foremost, Rodriguez has to remain on the field in order to deliver on his talent and prospect hype. He also probably needs to cut down his 30 percent strikeout rate at least slightly.
If Rodriguez stays healthy and puts together a huge spring, there will be a strong argument for him to be on the Twins’ Opening Day roster — and maybe even in a starting role. Wallner isn’t going anywhere, but Larnach is a replacement-level MLB corner outfielder who could still potentially be traded. Roden and Outman have both thrived in the minors and mostly struggled in the majors.
Trevor Larnach: 442 games, .726 OPS, 101 OPS+, 3.2 bWAR
James Outman: 267 games, .710 OPS, 94 OPS+, 2.4 bWAR
Alan Roden: 55 games, .556 OPS, 53 OPS+, -0.6 bWAR
Even though Larnach has been in the big leagues for a while and Outman and Roden were acquired at last year’s trade deadline, none of the three should necessarily block Rodriguez from reaching the big leagues if he’s healthy and earns a spot with his bat over the next month. He’s off to a strong start.
Best MLB international signing classes 2026
It’s been over a month since the 2026 international signing period opened, giving the proverbial ink on contracts time to dry. It’s also given MLB Pipeline a chance to take stock of which organizations have pulled in the best overall hauls.
For the players who have officially joined big league franchises, it’s a dream come true, one years in the making. We’ve seen those from traditional strongholds of talent — Venezuela and the Dominican Republic — as well as far-flung locales like China, Brazil and even Russia. Stir it up, calibrate it and check out the results — here are the five best signing classes thus far, from top to bottom.
Orioles
It figures to be a banner year for Orioles international scouting director Koby Perez, with a club-record five members of MLB Pipeline’s Top 50 International Prospects list. Shortstop Jose Luis Acevedo (No. 14) and outfielder Ariel Roque (No. 18) slot in as their highest-ranked signings in the past decade-plus, with Acevedo commanding the largest signing bonus ($2.3 million) the club has handed out on the international market.
Baltimore prioritized hitters who could impact the ball with extra-base thump, landing both outfielder Pedro Gomez (No. 35) and outfielder/first baseman Gabriel Rosario (No. 41), a pair of slug-first options who display a feel for loft well beyond their years.
Factor in that they also landed the top-ranked pitcher on the 2026 market — left-hander Andri Hidalgo (No. 25) — and a perpetually potent Baltimore farm system looks like it will continue to churn out talent, particularly at the lower levels.
Phillies
Prospects like Francisco Renteria (No. 3) don’t come around too often. A bona fide five-tool talent, Renteria has earned comps to MLB’s No. 1 prospect Konnor Griffin for his ability to preternaturally excel in every facet of the game against his peers. As a 15-year-old, Renteria collected hits off a pair of former big leaguers during a stint in the Venezuelan Major League, and the outfielder couples excellent bat speed with plus-plus raw power.
While Philadelphia ponied up $4 million to land Renteria, it also handed out mid-six figures to Venezuelan shortstop Juan Parra (No. 39), who has blown away evaluators with his work ethic. Parra trained with former Phillies great Bobby Abreu (a member of MLB’s Trainer Partnership Program) in his native Venezuela and has the type of looseness and fluidity in his game that makes scouts think he could stick at shortstop in the long term.
The club landed a handful of intriguing low-dollar upside signees as well. Among them was right-hander Justin Burgos, a 6-foot-5 righty from the Dominican Republic who has dialed his fastball up to 92-93 mph consistently. There are the makings of a four-pitch mix there, as is the case with righty Alexandre Moreti, who made history as Philadelphia’s first amateur signing from Japan.
Athletics
Few players had as much helium leading up to international signing day in January as Johenssy Colome (No. 5). The A’s have tried to temper their excitement around the 17-year-old, but his combination of plus-plus power and silky smooth defensive actions gives the shortstop an incredibly high ceiling as he gets his pro career underway.
Also a shortstop, Ricky Duran (No. 33) has taken enormous steps forward defensively over the past few years, which when combined with his propensity for line drives, gives him an exciting all-around profile to dream on. How the A’s divvy up reps on the infield at given levels between Colome and Duran should be fun to watch in the years to come.
Helping fortify the group is Jose Perdomo (No. 45), one of the premier catching prospects in the 2026 class. Known as an above-average receiver and a joy for pitchers to work with, Perdomo currently fits the strong-armed/power-hitting backstop type. Add in infielder Edward Suazo, a contact-oriented dynamo, and the offensive upside of this group is immense.
Mets
Sure, the Mets spent over 90 percent of their bonus pool on two players. But those two players — shortstop Wandy Asigen (No. 2) and outfielder Cleiner Ramirez (No. 23) — display traits that could make 2026 a memorable one for New York on the international front.
While other clubs deployed the approach of spreading around their funds to cast a wide net for finding talent, the Mets leaned on the pedigree of Asigen, a left-handed-hitting shortstop who ranks as the best player from the Dominican Republic in his class. He’ll be just 16 years old for almost the entire Dominican Summer League season, giving him added runway to capitalize on a top-of-the-charts offensive profile.
Ramirez has drawn some comps to former Met Luisangel Acuña for his dynamic playing style and loud impact at the dish despite a shorter stature. He tore up the Caracas Prospect League with a .419 average, walking almost twice as much as he struck out while also going a perfect 3-for-3 on stolen-base attempts and throwing out a pair of runners from the outfield.
Pirates
For the second time in the past five years, Pittsburgh has landed a pair of top 20 overall prospects on the international market. Outfielder Jeancer Custodio (No. 7) checks in as the highest-ranked player the organization has ever brought aboard, a veritable hit machine who is one of the premier bats in his class. Similarly, shortstop Wilton Guerrero Jr. (No. 17) is one of 2026’s fastest runners. The son of a former big leaguer and the nephew of Hall of Famer Vladimir Guerrero, Wilton displays terrific in-game IQ and plays with a gritty, hard-nosed style.
In addition to that dynamic duo, the club also landed infielder Alexander Pio, who had a brief spell on the Top 50 International Prospects list. He trained with Custodio in the D.R. and has already popped exit velocities north of 105 mph as a 16-year-old. Pittsburgh once again scoured the globe to ink a pair of the most intriguing signings in this year’s class — Brazilian right-handed pitcher Pietro Rienzo and Chinese right-hander Mingxuan Zhang.
Team USA Hockey Triumph Has MLB Star Itching to Play in Olympics
Sunday’s gold medal men’s hockey game between Team USA and Team Canada was a seminal moment for a much larger population than just hockey fans.
In winning its first men’s gold medal since 1980, Team USA not only inspired American sports fans from all walks of life but also American athletes in other sports. Gunnar Henderson, the excellent shortstop for the Baltimore Orioles, proved to be a prime example.
Henderson, who is preparing to represent Team USA at next month’s World Baseball Classic, said Monday that he would very much like to be among the first group of Major League Baseball players to participate in the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028.
MLB rebound candidates projected in 2026
What happened in 2025: After missing all of 2024 while recovering from Tommy John surgery, Alcantara was ineffective for much of ’25, though the fact that he managed to make 31 starts and throw 174 2/3 innings in his return from such a major injury was an achievement in its own right. He also showed glimpses of his Cy Young form in the second half, posting a 3.13 ERA over his final 12 outings to drop his ERA on the year to 5.36.
Outlook for 2026: FanGraphs forecasts Alcantara for a much more respectable 4.08 ERA with 2.7 WAR over 188 innings, the ninth-highest projected total in MLB. Miami will look to the 2022 NL Cy Young winner to provide stability for its inexperienced rotation, though he may also find himself in trade rumors if the club isn’t in contention come July. He has just one year of team control left after this season, via a $21 million club option for 2027.
What happened in 2025: Betts had the worst offensive showing of his career, recording career lows in OPS (.732) and wRC+ (104). That said, the season wasn’t a total loss. Aided by a strong defensive showing in his first year as a full-time shortstop, not to mention a solid finish at the plate, the veteran superstar still managed to produce 3.4 WAR for the Dodgers. He also earned his fourth World Series ring, further burnishing his Hall of Fame credentials.
Outlook for 2026: Will we see vintage Betts in 2026? The projections say yes, hinting at a full-blown return to form for the eight-time All-Star, who is projected for a 130 wRC+ and 4.9 WAR. Only 10 position players have a higher WAR projection.
What happened in 2025: Although he didn’t stray from his reputation as a durable strikeout artist, Cease’s performance in the run-prevention department left a lot to be desired. The right-hander allowed four or more runs 10 times — two more than the number of quality starts he threw — as his ERA+ (94) dipped below league average for the second time in three years. The Blue Jays nonetheless signed him to a seven-year, $210 million deal in free agency, putting more stock in his frontline potential than the uneven results he produced in 2025.
Outlook for 2026: FanGraphs’ projections for Cease largely align with the Blue Jays’ evaluation of the 30-year-old. He’s projected for a 3.57 ERA, which would be nearly a full run lower than his 2025 mark (4.55), along with the fourth-most K’s (214) and 10th-most innings (183) of any pitcher.
What happened in 2025: As his Statcast profile indicates, Cruz remained a man of extremes last season. The physical gifts that make him so tantalizing — an explosive swing, prodigious raw power, incredible arm strength and excellent foot speed — were all on display. But so, too, were the swing-and-miss tendencies that have long held him back. Cruz finished with 20 homers and 38 steals over 135 games, but he also struck out 32% of the time and slashed .200/.298/.378 with an 86 wRC+.
Outlook for 2026: Pittsburgh added multiple bats this offseason and will have Konnor Griffin (MLB Pipeline’s No. 1 overall prospect) at shortstop sooner rather than later. But given Cruz’s ceiling, he continues to loom as a major X-factor for the club. FanGraphs stops short of projecting the 27-year-old for All-Star-caliber numbers, but a 108 wRC+ would still mark a significant step up from 2025.
What happened in 2025: Harris once looked like a budding star, but his undisciplined approach has become a major impediment. In 2025, he recorded the second-highest chase rate (43.1%) and lowest walk rate (2.5%) among hitters with at least 500 plate appearances. Despite putting together a strong second half, Harris finished the season with an 83 wRC+, declining in that department for the third straight year after posting a 137 wRC+ during his ’22 NL Rookie of the Year campaign.
Outlook for 2026: The forecast for Harris is fairly optimistic. He’s projected for 3.5 WAR — more than he produced in the past two years combined (3.4) — a .275/.309/.460 slash and a 110 wRC+. Ronald Acuña Jr. and Austin Riley are the only Braves position players with a higher projected WAR total than Harris.
What happened in 2025: Nola was one of the most dependable starters in the game from 2018-24, ranking first in innings (1,264 2/3) and second in strikeouts (1,406) while recording a 3.64 ERA and a 116 ERA+ in that span. But last season was a clear departure from that standard, when he made just 17 starts due to injury and pitched to a 6.01 ERA with 0.9 WAR over 94 1/3 innings.
Outlook for 2026: With Ranger Suárez gone and Zack Wheeler (thoracic outlet surgery) slated to miss Opening Day, the Phillies will be counting on Nola to get back on track. FanGraphs expects a significant rebound, forecasting the veteran righty for 3.1 WAR and a 4.11 ERA over 180 innings.
What happened in 2025: Texas targeted Pederson in free agency to shore up its DH spot, which had been among the least productive in the game the previous season (66 wRC+). However, the signing didn’t move the needle much for the Rangers. Pederson missed time with a fractured right hand and hit .181 with a 76 WRC+ — a far cry from the 136 wRC+ he produced across 2022-24.
Outlook for 2026: By and large, FanGraphs expects Pederson to return to his typical level of production. His projected 118 wRC+ is identical to his career figure and would certainly provide a big boost to Texas’ playoff chances if he can make it happen. Only Corey Seager and Wyatt Langford have a higher projected wRC+ than Pederson among Rangers hitters.
What happened in 2025: Rutschman’s performance over his first two seasons suggested the 2019 No. 1 overall Draft pick was on his way toward becoming a perennial MVP candidate and franchise cornerstone for the Orioles, but his progress has curiously stalled. The backstop has posted a 78 wRC+ in his past 161 games going back to 2024, including a career-low 91 wRC+ during a ’25 campaign that was plagued by multiple oblique strains.
Outlook for 2026: Rutschman is projected to be a top-five catcher in terms of WAR (4.0), with 19 homers and a 116 wRC+ to boot. For all of the new faces Baltimore added during the offseason, the club’s playoff hopes may depend just as much on internal improvement from its homegrown stars, so it would obviously be a welcome sight for the Orioles if that forecast were to become reality.
What happened in 2025: Strider made 23 starts in his return from the UCL injury that caused him to miss most of 2024, but his stuff didn’t have the same bite to it as it did in ’22-23, when he recorded a 3.36 ERA with a 13.7 K/9 over 318 1/3 innings. He finished last season with a 4.45 ERA and a 9.4 K/9 in 125 1/3 innings.
Outlook for 2026: With Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep already hurt and Chris Sale, Reynaldo López and Grant Holmes all coming off injury-plagued seasons of their own, the Braves will be depending on Strider to deliver a strong rebound year in 2026. FanGraphs’ projections for Strider are a bit conservative but still put him much closer to the pitcher he was before his injury than the one we saw in 2025. He’s projected for a 3.85 ERA, 187 strikeouts and 2.8 WAR over 159 innings.
What happened in 2025: Traded from the Brewers to the Yankees after the 2024 campaign, Williams endured a tumultuous year in the Bronx. The righty lost his grip on the closer role and ended up with a 4.79 ERA — well north of the sparkling 1.83 figure he had over six years with Milwaukee. However, Williams’ underlying metrics — including a 37.7% whiff rate, a 34.7% strikeout rate and a 2.68 FIP — paint his season in a much more optimistic light and help explain why the Mets were comfortable signing him to a three-year, $51 million deal to be their new closer.
Outlook for 2026: Williams hasn’t moved far geographically, going from the Bronx to Queens, but he’s projected to make a quantum leap on the mound. He ranks 11th or better among relievers in projected ERA (3.12, tied for 11th), K/9 (11.93, ninth), WAR (1.3, tied for 10th) and saves (32, tied for third).
Kyle Tucker Makes Feelings Clear on Signing With Dodgers
After a high-profile free agency saga, outfielder Kyler Tucker chose to sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers despite links to the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Mets. Tucker chose to sign a four-year contract worth $240 million, with opt-outs after the second and third seasons, per ESPN.
Nonetheless, joining a team coming off back-to-back World Series titles rubbed people the wrong way, as Los Angeles continues to be a top destination for free agents looking to win.
As Tucker heads into Year 1 with the Dodgers, the outfielder spoke with MLB Network on Feb. 23 and shared the reasons he chose Los Angeles.
“This is just an organization that I thought was first class from the top down,” Tucker said. “Really good players and a really great fan base. Everyone, from the front office and the coaching staff to the guys that we see in the locker room every day, is committed to winning. So, just taking all that into account, this is just a place that I want to be a part of.”
Moreover, Tucker spoke about the free agency process and didn’t necessarily have the Dodgers pinpointed as the destination. He added that his focus was more on staying in shape to prepare for the 2026 season as he let the market unfold.
“I treated it like any other offseason, not necessarily worrying about where I’m going to go play, just making sure that wherever I am, I’m going to be ready when the season comes,” Tucker added. “So I just treated it like a normal offseason, did a couple of family vacations, worked out, and just tried to train, and was just hoping that the rest of it took care of itself. So that’s how I approached it and tried not to stress out too much about it.”
Dodgers’ Will Smith Doesn’t Hold Back on Kyle Tucker
Tucker made his Cactus League debut in the 5-1 win over the San Diego Padres on Feb. 22 at Peoria Sports Complex, where he had one plate appearance. Nonetheless, the outfielder’s new teammates are getting a sense of what it’s like to have Tucker around.
Dodgers catcher Will Smith spoke on Feb. 22 about what it’s like to have Tucker on their side after playing against him for several seasons.
“I’ve seen him for six, seven years now,” Smith told SportsNet LA. “[Tucker is] a good player. I’m glad he’s with us. He’s a really good hitter, a tough out. [He] has a really good feel for the strike zone. He’s got power [and] he’s a good outfielder as well. Steals bases. Just a really, really good player, and he’s gonna help us win a championship this year.”
LA Front Office Pushes Back Against Kyle Tucker Claim
Over the offseason, there was speculation questioning his passion for baseball. Nonetheless, Andrew Friedman, the president of baseball operations for the Dodgers, noted that the team did their work on whether there was any truth to this claim surrounding Tucker.
“With Tuck, you know, obviously, there was some stuff that was written and questions about, you know, how much he likes the game, etc., that, as we dug into it, we found to be pretty unfair,” Friedman said on the Feb. 20 edition of “Foul Territory.” “He’s just a lower-motor guy.
“As we dug on that and got into it, for me, makeup is so much about what you do to prepare yourself to go win a game and how you compete. And I will bet on Tuck with what he does. People say, ‘Oh, he doesn’t take enough swings before the game.‘ I think most guys take way too many.”
Competition Committee talks about keeping short pants out of NFL
Who wears short shorts?
Not NFL players. And the league hopes to keep it that way.
Via Judy Battista of NFL Media, the Competition Committee talked about uniforms on Sunday. Specifically, they discussed the fact that the college football cutoffs won’t be coming to the NFL.
It’s sort of strange to think there was even a chance for it. Current rules surely don’t allow players to take scissors to their game pants.
Then again, the league has come a long way from the days when all knees were covered with actual padding. Most knee pads nowadays look like Pop Tarts, if that.
The NFL generally used to exhibit much more OCD regarding uniforms. Mouthpieces weren’t whatever color the players wanted, and they were never crammed into a random hole in the player’s helmet. Some players now have two dangling from their facemasks, with neither in their mouths. And shoe/glove color often seems to be all over the place. (Yellow shoes are a problem; it often looks like a flag is on the field.)
But, hey, at least we know guys like Dion Dawkins won’t be wearing Daisy Dukes. The fact that it was even regarded as a possibility is surprising.
Giants Hire Ties $80M Cut Candidate to NY in NFL Free Agency
New York Giants offensive coordinator hire Matt Nagy creates a pipeline for any former Kansas City Chiefs who become available in NFL free agency, and the latest news on the KC front hints that right tackle Jawaan Taylor could be released.
FOX Sports national reporter Greg Auman highlighted Taylor as a top-10 NFL cut candidate in the coming weeks, and he explained why any potential departure might lead to the former $80 million man signing in New York.
“Taylor, 28, played every snap in two Super Bowls for the Chiefs, winning one, but he’s due to make $20 million in 2026, and the Chiefs are way over the cap, so he makes sense as one of their cuts,” Auman wrote.
“[Taylor has] led them in penalties in each of his three years in Kansas City — 41 accepted penalties in all — and the Chiefs have invested draft picks in their line to get ahead of this,” the blurb continued. “Could he follow offensive coordinator Matt Nagy to the Giants? Pro Football Focus ranked him 76th out of 80 tackles this past season.”
Obviously, Taylor isn’t coming off his best season. Having said that, the veteran blocker has always been known as a top-tier pass protector, and the Giants will be looking to keep rising franchise quarterback Jaxson Dart safe at all costs.
It should be noted that the Chiefs recently freed up nearly $44 million in cap space by restructuring the contract of quarterback Patrick Mahomes. However, Kansas City still finds itself in the negative despite that, and Taylor’s cut would help get the Chiefs cap-compliant before the start of the new league year.
Giants’ Right Tackle Decision Could Come Down to Jermaine Eluemunor vs. Jawaan Taylor in NFL Free Agency
There are likely several Giants fans reading this who would prefer Big Blue re-sign Jermaine Eluemunor.
Eluemunor has become a fast fan favorite in New York, living up to his two-year, $14 million contract. After joining the Giants in 2024, the right tackle has displayed passion and pride. He’s also made it clear that he wants to be here.
Having said that, Eluemunor is due for a new contract, and he might require a mild raise. On the flip side, it’s unclear how much Taylor would cost coming off a down season.
Entering his age-29 season, Taylor already had his major payday with the Chiefs. Kansas City agreed to pay him $20 million per year in 2023, and the offensive lineman did help them win a Super Bowl.
Still, Taylor’s days of commanding $20 million per year are certainly over.
If Taylor is released, it’ll be interesting to see what his free agent market is like. Especially with the fanbase leaning toward an Eluemunor extension.
This could be a huge decision for Giants head coach John Harbaugh and his new OC, Nagy.
Giants’ Matt Nagy News Opens Up Chiefs Pipeline
The Baltimore Ravens are obviously the No. 1 team to watch when it comes to potential Giants targets. Harbaugh has ties to several Ravens players, and it would be surprising if at least one or two don’t follow him to New York.
Outside of the Ravens, the Giants could also become a sneaky landing spot for ex-Chiefs.
Nagy has had mixed reviews as a coach throughout his career, but he’s generally well-liked by his players. And Kansas City’s cap-strapped financials create a situation where Chiefs free agents could look to move on.
Needless to say, Nagy’s ties offer a familiar landing spot with the Giants. And Taylor would fill a need if things don’t work out with Eluemunor.
Tush push may not be going away despite criticism
There is no single play in the NFL that has become more polarizing than the tush push. You also better get used to it and all of the complaints and criticisms that come with it, because there does not appear to be any sort of push to ban it this offseason.
Nobody has offered rule change proposal to ban tush push
Rich McKay, co-chairman of the NFL’s competition committee, said on Sunday that he has not seen a team put forward any sort of rule proposal change that would ban the tush push or make it illegal.
Banning the play actually made it to a vote last year, but it did not get enough support from NFL owners to ban it.
It has been a polarizing play ever since it became a key part of the Philadelphia Eagles short-yardage success. The arguments against it ranged from it being too difficult to stop to how ugly a play it can be to watch, to potential player safety issues.
This past season, the argument shifted to how difficult it is for the referees to officiate, given how many missed calls and quick whistles impacted the play.
But if nobody feels the need to propose a rule change, the play is going to be here to stay.
So why the change this offseason?
It could be a couple of factors.
The fact that it did not have enough support a year ago might make teams feel it is a waste of time to argue against it this offseason.
The more likely answer, however, is that more teams not only found ways to stop it — including against the Eagles — but are also willing to run it themselves. It is almost something of an
Retired NFL quarterback dies at 58
Former college football star Michael Proctor, who went on to spend time with the New England Patriots and Cleveland Browns organizations, has died. He was 58.
Proctor played college football at Murray State and is one of the best Racers players in program history.
“We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Murray State Athletics Hall of Famer and Stable of Honor inductee, Michael Proctor,” the school posted on X. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Proctor Family and all of his teammates during this incredibly difficult time.”
Proctor was the starting quarterback all four of his seasons with the Racers from 1986 to 1989.
He was named the OVC Offensive Player of the Year in 1989 when he threw for 2,812 yards as a senior. He finished his career with 8,942 passing yards.
Proctor ranks third all-time in passing yards at Murray State, as well as third in passing touchdowns with 52.
Fans took to X to remember Proctor following the announcement of his death.
“We lost a great Racer. Love you Mike. God bless the Proctor family,” one fan said.
Another added: “Prayers out to his family, his teammates and his Racer Family. Proc was a better person than he was a player and he is the best to ever play at Murray State.”
Following his college career, Proctor went undrafted in the NFL Draft. He did spend time with the New England Patriots and Cleveland Browns organizations, although he did not appear in a game.
Competition Committee has not discussed onside kick alternative
The NFL’s Competition Committee did not discuss the alternative to the onside kick during their meeting on Sunday at the Scouting Combine, Mark Maske reports.
The dynamic kickoff has essentially made the onside kick irrelevant, with a minuscule success rate, as teams now have to declare an onside kick before the kickoff. (The success rate of the onside kick began falling after the NFL banned running starts on kickoffs in 2018.)
PFT reported earlier this month that the NFL would consider replacing the onside kick with a fourth-and-13 play. (Or a fourth-and-15 or a fourth-and-20 instead of an onside kick.)
“It didn’t get talked about yet,” Rich McKay, the co-chairman of the Competition Committee, said, via Maske. “We’ll see. I do think that the onside kick recovery issue . . . is a real one that you’ve seen the statistics. You’ve seen where the numbers went. And at some point, it would be nice to see those move back to a more historical place. That’s just one person’s view. And you know what one person’s view doesn’t get you? Twenty-four votes.”
McKay was referring to the 24 votes from NFL owners that is needed for a rule change.
Who Are Ronyell Whitaker’s Parents? All About Ex-NFL Star’s Family, Wife, Kids, and More
Former NFL cornerback Ronyell Whitaker passed away on Sunday at age 46. After making his NFL debut with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2003 as an undrafted free agent, he played for two more teams before walking away in 2008. While the cause of his death remains unknown, his personal life has become a talking point among his admirers. Learn about Ronyell Whitaker’s parents, partner, kids, and other significant relationships.
Ronyell Whitaker was born to former welterweight boxer Pernell ‘Sweet Pea’ Whitaker on March 19, 1979. A native of Norfolk, Pernell won a gold medal in the 1984 Olympics and became one of the world’s greatest boxers. After years of substance abuse and legal troubles, Pernell has struggled to make ends meet. Meanwhile, information on Ronyell’s mother remains unavailable.
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Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah Sends Cryptic Message Amid Report Browns LB May Be Forced to Retire
While Cleveland Browns linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah hasn’t played a snap since 2024, questions about his NFL future continue to grow louder. He has remained out of Cleveland’s lineup since October 2024, when he suffered a devastating neck injury in a game due to a collision with Baltimore Ravens’ running back Derrick Henry. Now, after recent reports suggested the injury could end his career, Owusu-Koramoah put out a statement that did not offer any clarity on his situation.
“Someone catch me up on the news?” Owusu-Koramoah wrote in the caption of his recent Instagram Story.
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While Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah wrote that message, along with a photo of himself casually sitting in a car, it could simply be a lighthearted response to heavy speculation surrounding his NFL career. Owusu-Koramoah had last played in the 2024 season and recorded three sacks and one interception through eight games in that season, while anchoring the Browns’ defense. Then came the frightening injury that changed JOK’s career trajectory.
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In the Week 8 game against the Ravens in 2024, what looked like a routine tackle attempt on Derrick Henry quickly turned alarming for Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah. At the point of contact, Owusu-Koramoah’s neck compressed visibly, and his body stiffened almost immediately as he fell to the turf with limited movement.
Medical staff then immobilized Owusu-Koramoah on a board, carted him off the field, and transported him to the hospital for overnight observation. Thankfully, Owusu-Koramoah retained feeling in all of his extremities during the ambulance ride. At the time, many believed that he might still return to play for the Browns, but that optimism has faded ever since.
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Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah missed the entire 2025 season while recovering from the injury. When the Browns announced in May last year that he would sit out the 2025 season, JOK addressed fans directly with a heartfelt message and suggested that he didn’t know if he’d ever come back to play football.
“To the Cleveland Browns fanbase and my supporters worldwide—thank you for your patience in my silence,” Owusu-Koramoah wrote in the statement last year. “From day one, you embraced me as more than a player, but also as a brother and young man with purpose. I’m grateful to the Browns organization for their full support, and to the world-class doctors guiding me through recovery. While I won’t suit up this season, I’m focused on what I can control — my healing, my mindset, and my faith.”
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“The body may rest, but the calling never sleeps. I’ve given my heart to this game. I don’t know what’s next, but I’ll continue trusting my medical team, serving the community, and backing my brothers on the field. Love always, JOK.”
The Browns selected Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah as 52nd overall in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, and he made an immediate impact on the team’s defense. JOK started 20 of his first 25 NFL games and recorded 76 and 70 tackles, respectively, in his first two seasons. Then, in 2023, he elevated his game to another level as he racked up 101 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and two interceptions across 16 games.
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While 2023 was his breakout year, it earned Owusu-Koramoah Pro Bowl alternate honors and helped him secure a contract extension designed to make him a cornerstone of Cleveland’s defense. It makes the current uncertainty regarding Owusu-Koramoah’s NFL career even more difficult to process.
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Is Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah’s career in the NFL really over?
While the Browns placed Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah on the physically unable to perform list before the 2025 season, there was still hope that he could make a late-season return or perhaps a comeback in 2026. However, Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com just painted a far more concerning picture regarding Owusu-Koramoah’s NFL career.
“Owusu-Koramoah, who suffered a serious neck injury in a violent collision with Ravens running back Derrick Henry on Oct. 27, 2024, is doubtful at best to ever make it back to the playing field, a league source tells cleveland.com,” Cabot reported in a recent article.
Cabot also revealed that once doctors placed him on a backboard and carted Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah off following the injury in 2024, it was immediately feared that the injury could alter his NFL career permanently. Those fears resurfaced when Browns’ linebacker Jordan Hicks spoke about JOK’s situation shortly after it happened.
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“We understand the risks that come with it (football), but at the end of the day, you see something like that, and it’s real life. It puts things into perspective. We hope, and we pray he [JOK] makes a miraculous recovery,” Hicks said in an interview back in November 2024.
While neck and spine injuries carry a different level of concern, even after sixteen months, multiple surgeries, and intensive rehab, Owusu-Koramoah’s outlook reportedly hasn’t improved enough to suggest a safe return to football.
In August 2024, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah signed a three-year extension deal with the Browns worth $12.5 million annually, including $20 million fully guaranteed. So, JOK remains under contract with the Browns through 2027. Financially, the Browns secured him, but physically, nothing feels certain about JOK. For now, the Browns stay guarded with information regarding JOK’s injury, while fans wait, hoping for clarity – and above all, for his full recovery.
What Is Ronyell Whitaker’s Net Worth? All About His Contract, Salary, Endorsements, and More
The NFL world is mourning the tragic passing of Ronyell Whitaker, a former cornerback, who died on February 22, 2026, at the age of 46. As we pay tribute to his life and legacy, taking a look at his net worth provides us with a glimpse into the dedication and hard work that characterized his life both on and off the field.
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What is Ronyell Whitaker’s net worth in 2026? All to know
There’s no publicly available, reliable estimate of Ronyell Whitaker’s net worth. A few online sources claim his net worth was “345 thousand million dollars,” but these figures should be treated with caution unless they’re backed by an authoritative financial publication or verified records.
Net worth figures are often subjective and depend heavily on how they’re calculated.
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What we do know is where his income likely came from. He earned money during his NFL career, later worked as a defensive backs coach at Chanhassen High School, and went on to become the CEO and owner of Whitaker Group LLC.
He founded the privately held real estate company in 2011, and it likely became a key part of his financial portfolio.
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Understanding Ronyell Whitaker’s contract: salary, net worth, and more
Ronyell Whitaker entered the league the tough way as an undrafted free agent with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2003.
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He later spent time with the Minnesota Vikings and the Detroit Lions as well.
There aren’t reliable reports that break down exactly how much he earned from each contract, especially in his role on the roster. Still, his income came from NFL contracts, football coaching opportunities beyond the league, and eventually his move into business after retiring.
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After football, Whitaker transitioned into entrepreneurship and became the CEO and owner of Whitaker Group LLC. Unlike players and coaches, there aren’t public details about how much he earns from his company.
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Ronyell Whitaker’s career, stats, records, and more
Ronyell Whitaker was born on March 19, 1979. He was a cornerback from Norfolk, Virginia, who built his football career step by step.
He played high school football at Lake Taylor High School before heading to Virginia Tech. At Virginia Tech, he made a name for himself and earned Third-team All-American honors in 2001.
As mentioned before, Whitaker entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2002 and went on to play for the Buccaneers from 2003 to 2004. He later took his game overseas, playing for Rhein Fire in 2006, where he was named All-NFL Europe that same year.
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After that, he spent two seasons with the Vikings from 2006 to 2007. Later, he had a brief stint with the Lions in 2008 and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 2009. Over the course of his NFL career, Whitaker recorded 43 total tackles, one fumble recovery, and three pass deflections, a solid run for a player who entered the league without being drafted.
NFL Rumors: Malik Willis Gets 8-Figure Contract Update as Dolphins Face Setback in QB Pursuit
For a quarterback who spent most of the season as a backup, Malik Willis is about to command a starter’s salary. With a thin QB draft class looming, the question isn’t if he’ll get paid, but which team will be willing to write an eight-figure check. While he mostly served as Jordan Love’s backup at Green Bay, his standout performance in the starting role has undoubtedly widened his prospects. So, what kind of contract could that performance command?
“Packers QB Malik Willis could get a deal worth $20M-$30M per year in free agency, per @TomPelissero,” reporter Dov Kleiman wrote on X. “Willis is going to be in extremely high demand 📈”
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Malik Willis is set to become an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career. The Tennessee Titans locked him in with a four-year rookie contract worth $5.16 million in 2022, including $932,800 in guarantees. Should his next deal land in the projected range, it would mark a massive jump from his rookie earnings. Moreover, there’s another situation that could work in the young QB’s favor.
Many experts have found the 2026 quarterback draft class to be thin, with the only saving grace being Fernando Mendoza. While they have projected him as the No. 1 pick, teams may seek other young and reliable options. Willis, who turns 27 in May, fits that bill. In fact, several franchises are reportedly monitoring his situation, including the Browns, Dolphins, and Steelers.
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According to EssentiallySports’ Tony Pauline, the Arizona Cardinals may go after him, making the Cardinals a potential landing spot for the free-agent quarterback. Murray was placed on injured reserve with a foot injury and ultimately missed the remainder of the year, casting his future with the team into doubt. While no decision has been made and Murray remains under contract, the uncertainty could lead Arizona to explore additional quarterback options this offseason.
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If Arizona were to explore alternatives at quarterback, adding a reliable option this offseason could become a priority. Willis could fit that profile. After being traded to the Green Bay Packers in August 2024, he settled into a backup role behind Jordan Love but made the most of his opportunities, delivering efficient performances in limited action.
In his three starts for Green Bay, Willis proved to be a highly efficient dual-threat, posting a 2-1 record while completing 70 of 89 passes for 972 yards and six touchdowns without an interception. He added another dimension on the ground, rushing for 261 yards and three scores, showcasing the kind of playmaking ability that has teams lining up for his services.
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Salary cap reality complicates Dolphins’ plans involving Malik Willis
After releasing wide receiver Tyreek Hill, among others, to create cap flexibility, Miami’s biggest financial concern persists. Tua Tagovailoa’s contract situation and underwhelming play make him a top trade option. Pauline believes that the team may release him ahead of the 2026 season under new leadership. He noted that head coach Jeff Hafley wants to reunite with Malik Willis.
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They worked together at Green Bay over the past two seasons, when Hafley served as the team’s defensive coordinator. But he isn’t the only familiar face who moved to Miami. Jon-Eric Sullivan, who spent years in the Packers’ front office in a senior personnel role, also left to become the Dolphins’ general manager. While this familiarity will likely support Willis, the duo may still not be able to pursue him aggressively.
The Dolphins owe Tagovailoa a guaranteed $54 million in 2026, and cutting him before June 1 would trigger a massive $99.2 million dead cap hit. Waiting until then could lower the damage to $67.4 million, while a trade would leave $45.2 million on the books. Currently, the team has only $3.18 million in cap space. Competing for Willis at the projected rate wouldn’t be possible for them.
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If Miami cannot afford the Green Bay signal-caller, they may turn to a more affordable veteran option such as Jimmy Garoppolo. Still, his arrival would not automatically make him the starter. The Dolphins could also give Ewers a legitimate shot at the starting job. He threw for 622 yards and three touchdowns in four games with Tagovailoa sidelined. Some evaluators viewed him as a mid-round talent who ultimately slipped to Day 3 of the draft.
If Malik Willis ends up elsewhere, Miami could give Ewers an extended opportunity to start while supporting him with a veteran presence. Ultimately, financial troubles are shaping the future of the team’s quarterback room. It remains to be seen how Miami will navigate its financial constraints to build a competitive quarterback room.
Trenches, secondary among Eagles’ targets at NFL Combine
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Even with Lane Johnson returning for another season at age 36, which he confirmed last week, right tackle will be among the Eagles’ positions of interest at the NFL Scouting Combine, starting today and running through next Monday at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
The six-time Pro-Bowl selection, still elite when healthy, missed the final eight games (including playoffs) last season with a Lisfranc foot injury. He has mulled retirement for a couple years.
Johnson reportedly has met with new offensive coordinator Sean Mannion and new O-line coach Chris Kuper. He will eventually share his thoughts about the sudden departure of Jeff Stoutland, with whom he is close, but for now he’s looking forward to playing in the Mannion/Kuper West Coast-oriented system.
Over his 13-year career, the Eagles are 110-57-1 when Johnson is on the field and 18-27 when he isn’t. Last year, they were 8-2 with him and 3-5 without him.
Johnson was the fourth overall pick in 2013 out of Oklahoma. But left tackle Jordan Mailata, who credits Stoutland with his own development, was a seventh-rounder in 2018. It’s just a reminder that high-quality linemen can be found all over the draft.
Line depth in 2025 was a concern beyond Johnson’s health. Three-time Pro Bowl left guard Landon Dickerson had meniscus surgery shortly before the season, and he battled neck, shoulder and ankle injuries throughout. And center Cam Jurgens, a two-time Pro Bowl selection, struggled recovering from back surgery, missed three games with a knee injury and suffered a concussion.
With a faltering line, among other problems, the Eagles’ offense regressed. So general manager Howie Roseman will have several line reinforcements in mind at the combine.
The Birds will select 23rd in the first round of April’s draft and currently have eight picks overall, including projected compensatory selections — a first- and second-rounder, and two apiece in the third, fourth and fifth rounds.
In addition to tackle, at least three other needs stand out as Roseman and Co. descend on Indianapolis:
Tight end
Dallas Goedert, 31, who has dealt with injuries much of his career, played in 15 games last season and scored 11 touchdowns, a franchise record at the position. He became Jalen Hurts’ go-to guy in the red zone. But it was the final year of his restructured deal, and he’s likely out the door. That’s a big hole to fill.
Oregon’s Kenyon Sadiq is clearly the top tight end prospect, but the class isn’t considered particularly deep. Vanderbilt’s Eli Stowers and Ohio State’s Max Klare are in the next tier, followed by Mitchell Evans (Notre Dame), Oscar Delp (Georgia) and Jack Endries (Cal).
The Eagles may have to get creative to find an answer.
CB2
Two years ago, Roseman hit a home run with outside cornerback Quinyon Mitchell in the first round, and then hit on slot corner Cooper DeJean in Round 2. But unless the Eagles want to re-sign Adoree’ Jackson, 31, at the second boundary corner spot, he’ll walk away in March.
They want an upgrade at the position, and a relatively deep cornerback class could offer one on a rookie contract.
Michigan’s Will Johnson and Ohio State’s Denzel Burke lead the pack, according to most analysts, with Tacario Davis (Arizona), Denver Harris (UNLV), Toriano Pride Jr. (Missouri) and Avieon Terrell (Clemson) also grading well.
Even the third round could provide high-upside talent. But the league has a dearth of premium corners, so names may come off the board quickly.
Strong safety
Reed Blankenship, whom Philadelphia signed as an undrafted rookie out of Middle Tennessee State in 2022, may have played his final game with the Eagles.
“You think about it … and it’s tough,” Blankenship said when the season ended. “I was emotional coming in here, just knowing the guys I came in with, it’s not going to be the same. Who knows where we all end up? That’s just part of the business side of it. They can’t keep us all. I wish they could.”
Blankenship, an unrestricted free agent who turns 27 next week, has become a reliable leader of the defense, a “set it and forget it” presence on the back end. He may not command a top-echelon salary, but he’ll draw significant offers that could be challenging for the Birds to match.
Ohio State’s Caleb Downs is not only elite among safeties, but he is also considered one of the best prospects in the draft and is projected to go in the top 10 to 15. Toledo’s Emmanuel McNeil-Warren slots below him, followed by a string of midlevel prospects that includes Dillon Thieneman (Oregon), Kamari Ramsey (USC), Zakee Wheatley (Penn State), A.J. Haulcy (LSU), Bud Clark (TCU), Michael Taaffe (Texas) and Jakobe Thomas (Miami).
The Jaelan Phillips question
Whether to re-sign edge rusher Jaelan Phillips, 27, whom the Eagles acquired from the Dolphins for a third-round pick before last year’s trade deadline, is a burning question. It will depend on his salary demands.
Phillips finished with five sacks, 14 QB hits, 53 combined tackles, four pass deflections, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery in 17 games between Miami and Philadelphia. Despite a subpar performance against San Francisco in the playoffs — the case for several Eagles — he stabilized the Birds’ defensive front when he arrived in November.
It’s a deep draft class for edge rushers, with Miami’s Rueben Bain Jr. leading the way as a potential top-five pick. He is closely followed by David Bailey of Texas Tech, Auburn’s Keldric Faulk and Texas A&M’s Cashius Howell.
Other names to keep in mind include T.J. Parker (Clemson), Mason Thomas (Oklahoma), Romello Height (Texas Tech) and Gabe Jacas (Illinois).
Key offseason dates
• Feb. 23-March 2: NFL Scouting Combine.
• March 3: Deadline of 4 p.m. ET to tag players with Franchise or Transition designations (open since Feb. 17).
• March 9-11: Legal “tampering” period for players who will become unrestricted free agents. Players and their agents may negotiate with teams but cannot sign until 4 p.m. March 11.
• March 11: 2026 league year and free agency signing period begin at 4 p.m. New salary cap takes effect. Roster bonuses kick in for relevant contracts. Teams must be in financial compliance by 11:59:59 p.m. March 12.
• March 29-April 1: Annual league meeting, Phoenix.
• April 15: Deadline for teams to time, test, visit, interview or conduct physical examinations with draft-eligible players at the club facility.
• April 17: Deadline for restricted free agents to sign offer sheets.
• April 20: Teams with returning head coaches may begin offseason workout programs.
• April 22: Deadline for prior club to exercise right of first refusal to restricted free agents who signed offer sheets. Deadline for teams to time, test, visit, interview (including video and phone calls) or conduct physical examinations with a draft-eligible players at any non-club location.
• April 23-25: 2026 NFL Draft, Pittsburgh.
• May 1: Deadline for clubs to exercise fifth-year option for players selected in the first round of the 2023 draft.
• May 1-4 or May 8-11: Teams may hold their three-day post-draft rookie minicamp.
• May 11: Rookie development programs begin.
• May 19-20: Spring league meeting, Orlando, Fla.
• June 1: Teams incur a lesser cap hit when cutting or trading players because bonuses/guaranteed money can be deferred.
• July 15: Deadline of 4 p.m. for teams to sign any players designated with the Franchise tag.
• Mid-July: Clubs may open preseason training camp for rookies.
• Late July: Full training camps open.
Dates for team OTAs and minicamps have yet to be announced by individual clubs.
Notes
• Jurgens, 26, recently spent time at BioXcellerator in Medellin, Colombia, for stem cell therapy. He called it a “health reset week” on his Instagram page.
BioXcellerator describes itself as a “global leader in stem cell therapy for orthopedic and sports injuries, spine and disc conditions, autoimmune and degenerative diseases, and other disorders.” Its corporate office is in Scottsdale, Ariz., but it performs regenerative treatments in Medellin because of restrictions in the United States.
Jurgens, who was rumored to be contemplating retirement after an injury-riddled 2025, received intradiscal stem cell infusions in his back and also underwent ozone therapy, cryotherapy and traditional physical therapy during his visits.
“I’m excited to get healthy and get ready for this next season,” Jurgens said in his Instagram post. “That’s why I’m down here. … Go Birds!”
• Running back Saquon Barkley said he’s “super excited” to play in Mannion’s offense.
“I’ve had a lot of different coaches and head coaches and been a part of a lot of systems. I don’t think I really came across a system like this,” Barkley told NFL Network. “For me, it’s refreshing. You get something new. You get to learn something new.”
• The Eagles will listen to trade offers for wide receiver A.J. Brown, but won’t pull the trigger unless they’re bowled over by a proposal.
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Follow Christiaan DeFranco on X at @the_defranc.
NHL teams congratulate Team USA, Canada after epic gold medal game
An incredible gold medal game at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 between the United States and Canada, won by Team USA 2-1 in overtime, lit up social media — and featured more than its fair share of mixed emotions.
Jack Hughes scored the Golden Goal for the U.S. and no one was more pumped than the New Jersey Devils.
Things were less clear-cut for the Winnipeg Jets, which play in Manitoba but had to watch their star goalie, Connor Hellebuyck, stand on his head for the United States, especially in the third period with the game deadlocked 1-1.
When it was all over, the United States had it’s first men’s hockey gold medal since the 1980 ‘Miracle on Ice’ team, handshake lines were formed and fans were treated to one of the most incredible hockey games in Olympic history.
Team USA Honored Johnny Gaudreau’s Memory by Making Him an Olympic Champion
MILAN — Guy Gaudreau dried his eyes in time for the medal ceremony. He put his right hand over his heart in the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena stands Sunday afternoon as the United States flag was raised and the “The Star-Spangled Banner” was played. Guy and his wife, Jane, wore No. 13 USA hockey sweaters—Guy in blue, Jane in white—with the family name on the back.
They were part of this epic moment, immense pride mingling with deep pain.
“He grew up with all these guys,” Guy says after the anthem, gesturing to the American players on the ice, gold medals around their necks. “He’s probably here with them right now in spirit, right?”
If not for a horrific tragedy, Johnny Gaudreau—“Johnny Hockey,” as he was known—would have been part of the U.S. team that scored one of its all-time greatest victories in the Olympic hockey final, defeating nemesis Canada, 2-1, in overtime. The seven-time NHL all-star was the all-time leading U.S. scorer in international play. With the NHL players not participating in the previous two Olympics, this would have been his chance.
But Johnny and his brother, Matthew, were killed by an alleged drunk driver while riding their bikes on a rural road in New Jersey on Aug. 29, 2024, on the eve of their sister’s wedding. It was a tragedy that shocked and devastated so many people throughout the hockey world.
The ripples from that tragedy have continued to be felt. So has the respect the hockey community has for Gaudreau—respect that reached all the way to Milan. USA Hockey invited the family to attend the Games, and they waffled initially before deciding to come.
Here, his old teammates, peers and friends made sure to honor Johnny Hockey in this moment of triumph. At a time of peak personal athletic achievement, dreams coming true, the American team thought of who wasn’t there with them.
Within minutes after ending a riveting, intense game on an OT goal by Jack Hughes, American players Matthew Tkachuk, Auston Matthews and Zach Werenski paraded Johnny Hockey’s jersey around the ice. The Gaudreau family—including Johnny’s widow, Meredith, and their two oldest children—looked on, deeply moved by this show of respect and affection.
They accepted the emotional weight of being here, knowing that with the joy of this U.S. undefeated run through this tournament came the recurring pangs of who is missing.
“He wanted to play on this team in the worst way,” Guy says. “He wanted to win a gold medal in the worst way. So it was a lot of emotions. We’re very proud of them, proud of the team, proud of the boys, and very proud they honor them.
“Still, it makes it very difficult for us. Two sons, one night. Pretty hard.”
When it came time for the team picture after the medal ceremony, Tkachuk and Werenski skated over to the boards, went through one penalty box and up to the stands. They grabbed Noa Guadreau, age 3, and 2-year old Johnny Jr.—whose birthday was Sunday—and took them to center ice for the team picture, along with Johnny’s sweater. Lumps welled up in throats.
“We wanted to play for him and make him proud and I feel like we did that ,” says Werenski, who played with Gaudreau for the Columbus Blue Jackets. “To see his family here supporting us, they would’ve been here with John. To see the kids here, having his jersey on the ice, it means everything. Super special moment.”
Added Brady Tkachuk: “It’s just what he means to our whole entire team, what he means to USA hockey. I mean, we miss him and Maddie dearly, and he would’ve been on this team. He’s touched everybody on that ice and we just wanted to, I guess, show the Gaudreau family our support. He was so near and dear to a lot of us. We did it for them.”
Guy Gaudreau was a two-sport star, hockey and soccer, and became a hockey coach. He still watches the game with a coach’s critical eye, as his appraisal of this gold medal classic shows.
“I wasn’t too thrilled,” he says. “At the end of the second period, they played like they were going to play not to lose, but they picked it up after that. They killed that five-on-three [power play]. That’s the best power play in the world, five best players in the world, and they kill that. Then they came back in the third period and they played well.
“When it’s overtime, it’s anybody’s game, right? Anybody’s game, turn over, it goes the other way. Z [Werenski] made a big play right up to Jack Hughes, and in the back of the net [for a goal]. So it was a great game, one that will help to grow the game of hockey.”
This was a generational triumph, one that is second in U.S. annals only to the “Miracle On Ice” of 1980. On the 46th anniversary of that team’s upset of the Russians, younger Americans finally have a touchstone Olympic hockey moment of their own.
“The young kids are going to read about it, they’re going to see the pictures,” Guy says. “They’re going to be so excited to get into the game. It’s a great game. Now I’ve got grandchildren to coach.”
When Werenski and Matthew Tkachuk returned the grandkids to the family in the stands, Guy grabbed Noa and put her on his shoulders. It’s unspeakably sad that Johnny wasn’t there to be part of the moment, and to have his own celebration with his kids. But family is filling in as best it can—the immediate family, yes, but the USA Hockey family, too.
“All the boys, they love John,” Guy says. “They really honored him today.”
More Winter Olympics on Sports Illustrated
NHL EDGE stats behind Jack Hughes’ prowess at 2026 Olympics
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 identify the advanced metrics behind Jack Hughes’ strong performance at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 for the United States, which won the gold medal.
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Jack Hughes scored the golden goal for the United States at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, and the New Jersey Devils forward translated his strong underlying metrics from the NHL to the biggest games of his career.
Hughes scored the golden goal in overtime on a wrist shot after a cross-ice pass from defenseman Zach Werenski to help the U.S. defeat Canada for its first gold medal at the Olympics since 1980; his country had a 6-0-0 record in the tournament. Hughes had seven points (four goals, three assists) and 15 shots on goal in six games at the 2026 Olympics; the only U.S. player with more points at the Olympics was his brother and teammate, defenseman Quinn Hughes (eight in six games), and the only player with more goals in the entire tournament was Canada forward Macklin Celebrini (five).
The No. 1 pick in the 2019 NHL Draft by the Devils, Jack Hughes became the second player to score an overtime goal in a gold medal game during an Olympics with NHL players, joining Sidney Crosby (for Canada in 2010). Hughes, who has 36 points (12 goals, 24 assists) in 36 games for the Devils this season, has missed significant time because of injuries in each of the past three seasons but was at the top of his game in the Olympics. Hughes had a bounce-back international tournament after only having one point (no goals, one assist) despite 11 shots on goal in four games at the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off.
The 24-year-old had primary assists on both of Brock Nelson’s goals in the tournament opener for the U.S. against Latvia and also thrived on a line with Tage Thompson and Dylan Larkin in the games that followed. Since 2021-22, Hughes ranks 12th in the entire NHL in points per game (1.17; 335 in 287 games) and made a big statement to the sports world that he has one of the highest offensive ceilings of any player in the NHL with his prime years still ahead of him.
1. Midrange prowess
Hughes scored his golden goal from one of the middle regions of the ice and has excelled from midrange areas with the Devils this season and earlier in his NHL career. Hughes, despite being limited to 36 of New Jersey’s 57 games this season, still ranks highly among forwards in midrange shots on goal (50; 91st percentile) and midrange goals (five; 82nd percentile).
Eight of Hughes’ 12 goals in the NHL this season have come from middle regions of the ice (high-danger goals plus midrange goals). Since 2021-22, Hughes is tied for 14th in the NHL in wrist shot goals per game (0.25).
Last season, Hughes also had elite shot metrics by location, ranking in the 94th percentile among forwards in both midrange goals (11) and midrange shots on goal (79) and also in the 90th percentile in high-danger goals (15).
2. Offensive zone time percentage
Hughes, despite the Devils being outside of the Stanley Cup Playoff picture in the Eastern Conference, has remained a driver of possession when healthy for the Devils and also sees prime offensive usage. He ranks in the 89th percentile among forwards in offensive zone time percentage (45.3) this season.
In terms of offensive zone start percentage at 5-on-5, Hughes ranks fourth in the entire NHL this season (49.7; minimum 15 games). Hughes also ranked highly in offensive zone start percentage in 2022-23 (45.6; tied for ninth; minimum 40 games), when he set an NHL career high in goals (43) with the Devils.
3. Skating distance
Hughes, when healthy, is a workhorse for the Devils in terms of skating distance. He ranks 10th in the entire NHL in most miles skated in a single game (4.60) this season and is second in the League in average skating distance per 60 minutes (10.76 miles; second behind Buffalo Sabres forward Ryan McLeod’s 11.02). Hughes’ skating ability continues to translate to the 3-on-3 overtime format; since 2021-22, he is tied for 12th in the NHL in overtime goals (eight).
Although Hughes doesn’t rank as high as usual in max skating speed (22.49 mph; 66th percentile among forwards) this NHL season, his speed was on full display again in the Olympics playing on a star-studded roster, especially in 3-on-3 overtime in the gold medal game. Last season, Hughes ranked in the 95th percentile among forwards in max skating speed (23.33 mph), and he also ranked highly in that category during his best offensive season in 2022-23 (23.20; 93rd percentile).
Considering the Devils rank 10th in the NHL in 5-on-5 shot attempts percentage (51.1) this season, they have bounce-back potential down the stretch of the regular season. And, after Hughes’ historic moment for the U.S. at the Olympics, the achievement could prove to be a momentum boost for one of hockey’s most talented individual players.
NHL players tune in to cheer on teammates at ‘incredible’ Olympics
The men’s hockey tournament at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 concluded with Team USA forward Jack Hughes scoring 1:41 into overtime for a 2-1 win against Team Canada to win its first gold medal since the
Canucks’ trade buzz explodes as Olympic freeze set to lift
The Vancouver Canucks are expected to be busy once the NHL’s Olympic trade freeze lifts Sunday night, even if nothing is imminent.
According to Thomas Drance of The Athletic, Vancouver does not currently have a deal lined up to be announced when the freeze ends at 8:59 p.m. PT. That said, the club is described as a “motivated seller,” with trade discussions expected to intensify throughout the afternoon and into the evening.
With the March 6 trade deadline fast approaching, there is talk that a number of teams have trades in the hopper, ready to be announced once the NHL allows clubs to conduct business again.
Several Canucks have resurfaced in league chatter — most notably Elias Pettersson and Evander Kane.
Kane has nine goals and 25 points this season, and while his underlying numbers suggest he can still drive offense, contenders may be hesitant to pay for inconsistent production. There’s also speculation that, if no trade materializes, more creative solutions — including contract termination — could be explored, though nothing concrete has been reported.
What’s the latest on Elias Pettersson?
Pettersson, meanwhile, is still being discussed in trade chatter. Over the Olympic break, there was talk that Los Angeles could view him as a potential replacement for injured winger Kevin Fiala. Kevin Baxter of the Los Angeles Times and Ben Kuzma of The Province both noted increased Kings interest.
However, Pettersson’s limited usage in Sweden’s 2–1 overtime loss to the United States, just nine minutes, with no shifts after the second period, likely posed questions for NHL teams that might have been looking at him. If he’s dealing with an injury of some kind, teams will be hesitant. But, if he’s healthy and he just wasn’t being played, how will he step up in the playoffs if he doesn’t step up on the biggest international stage there is?
If Vancouver were to seriously entertain moving him, Pettersson would need to waive his no-move clause.
Beyond the headline names, pending unrestricted free agents Teddy Blueger and David Kämpf could represent the Canucks’ most realistic trade chips. Both have played significant roles for their national teams at the Olympics and profile as defensive depth centres attractive to contenders.
With the freeze ending Sunday and the deadline looming, Vancouver’s direction should come into sharper focus quickly.
Avalanche players marvel at Olympic tournament: ‘It was unreal’
Hockey fans had to wait 12 years to see NHL players in the Winter Olympics again, and the tournament exceeded even the highest of expectations.
The United States defeated Canada for the gold medal in an instant classic Sunday morning. Four of the seven elimination games went to overtime, and Avs star Nathan MacKinnon won a fifth with a goal in the final minute of regulation.
Many of the Avs players who weren’t in Milan had split allegiances throughout the tournament, but especially Sunday with Brock Nelson and the Americans playing MacKinnon, Cale Makar and Devon Toews and the Canadians.
Mackenzie Blackwood was the first alternate for Canada had any of the three goaltenders been unable to play, but he also spent four seasons in New Jersey with Jack Hughes, who scored the golden goal for the Americans in overtime.
Renck: This was no miracle — only prideful Americans who ‘are best in the world’
USA players silence critics
When Team USA general manager Bill Guerin named the U.S. Olympic men’s ice hockey team on Jan. 2, the second guessing began.
It was mostly the 4 Nations Face-Off team, which was impressive but lost to Canada in the final. There were a few others, such as Quinn Hughes, who had been named to last year’s team but couldn’t go because of an injury.
Tage Thompson was a welcome addition, as was Clayton Keller. But why were big-time scorers Cole Caufield, Jason Robertson and Lane Hutson left off while J.T. Miller and Vincent Trocheck of the struggling New York Rangers were brought back?
Guerin said he was building a hockey team, not an All-Star team.
Well, he was right. The United States won its first gold medal since 1980, beating Canada 2-1 in overtime, completing an impressive year for USA Hockey’s top national teams. There was a women’s hockey gold, also against Canada, a men’s and women’s world championship and a sweep of the women’s Rivalry Series.
Here are the winners and losers of the men’s hockey tournament at the 2026 Winter Olympics:
WINNERS
Jack Hughes, USA
The Devils star had to overcome so much to play in the Olympics. He rehabbed from last year’s season-ending shoulder surgery, had a freak accident at a team dinner that required finger surgery and also missed games leading into the Olympics. He joined brother Quinn in Milan, made sweet passes in the Latvia win, scored twice against Slovakia and had the golden goal against Canada. Naturally, he did it after an injury, getting high sticked and losing a tooth in the third period.
Auston Matthews, USA
The inability of the Toronto Maple Leafs to get far in the playoffs has led the city’s tough hockey media to question the team’s stars, including captain Matthews. Well, Matthews was named the USA’s captain, just as in the 4 Nations, and he now can respond that he can lead a team to victory.
Connor Hellebuyck, USA
Last year, he won the Vezina Trophy and got a rare goalie Hart Trophy win. But he was pulled in three games on the road against the St. Louis Blues in the playoffs. Can’t win a big game? Well, the USA doesn’t win on Sunday without Hellebuyck, who made 41 saves.
Sending NHL players to the Olympics
The hockey was great, especially in the quarterfinals, when three games went to overtime. But the best was the gold medal game. Canada pressed and looked like it was going to rally and win for the third game in a row. But the USA eventually prevailed against a heated rival. Best on best is the best way to do the Olympics.
WINNER AND LOSER
Connor McDavid, Canada
The 4 Nations overtime goal scorer had an impressive tournament and was named MVP after scoring 13 points, a record by an NHL player at the Olympics. But the award was bittersweet because Canada won silver, not gold. It’s the second time he was given an individual prize when his team came in second. He was voted the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 2024 after the Edmonton Oilers lost Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final to the Florida Panthers.
LOSERS
Sidney Crosby missing the final
When the Canada-USA game went to overtime, it brought back memories of Sidney Crosby’s golden goal in 2010. No chance of that, though. The Canadian captain was injured in the quarterfinals, when he was hit hard twice. He missed the semifinals and couldn’t make the final and try to win his third gold medal. And now the Pittsburgh Penguins will have to figure out if he’ll miss part of the stretch run.
Los Angeles Kings
They made the big trade for Artemi Panarin and were looking for him to boost their offense enough to get back in the playoff hunt. But now they suffered a setback because Kevin Fiala broke his leg in a loss to Canada, had surgery and will miss the rest of the regular season. NHL owners are concerned about players getting hurt at the Olympics and it happened in varying degrees to Fiala, Crosby, Josh Morrissey and Mikko Rantanen.
Pierre Crinon, France
He delivered a questionable hit on Nathan MacKinnon, leading to a scrap with Tom Wilson. The International Ice Hockey Federation prohibits fighting and could have suspended him, but it didn’t. The French team did, though, saying:
US men’s hockey team honors the late Johnny Gaudreau after winning Olympic gold
MILAN (AP) – Johnny Gaudreau’s No. 13 jersey was hanging in the U.S. locker room throughout the Olympics, and Dylan Larkin and Matthew Tkachuk carried it around the ice after the U.S. beat Canada in overtime to win the country’s first gold medal at the Games since 1980.
Then, the tribute to the late player known as “Johnny Hockey” went even further.
The oldest two of Johnny and Meredith Gaudreau’s three children were in attendance, along with their grandparents, Guy and Jane, and they got to be part of the celebration. Larkin and Werenski brought 3-year-old Noa and 2-year-old Johnny Jr. on the ice for the team photo, which also had Gaudreau’s jersey in it. To a man, players said he should have been with them.
“It meant everything,” said Werenski, who assisted on Jack Hughes’ golden goal in overtime. “This is something John would have been at. And to see his family here supporting us and seeing his kids, bringing them on the ice, we talked about playing for him, making him proud and I think we did that. Super special to see them and to have kids on the ice, he was a huge part of USA Hockey.”
Johnny and his brother, Matthew, died in August 2024 when they were struck by an SUV while riding bicycles near their hometown in New Jersey on the eve of their sister Katie’s wedding.
“He’s with us here in spirit for the whole tournament,” captain Auston Matthews said. “To have his jersey out there in the team photo and have his kids come out and be with us, we’re obviously thinking of him.”
An elite player a decade into his NHL career and the all-time U.S. leading scorer in international play, Johnny Gaudreau was on track to be in Milan. Guy Gaudreau said USA Hockey told the family that their oldest son was on the projected roster.
“He obviously would have been on this team — and been a huge part of it,” forward J.T. Miller said. “A guy I grew up with and against and knew pretty well. It’s more than hockey, at that point. … He deserved better, and he had a big part in how things went down today.”
Larkin, who was also close to Gaudreau, dedicated what is just the third U.S. men’s hockey gold in history to Gaudreau and former USA Hockey executive Jim Johannson, who died unexpectedly just before the 2018 Olympics.
“This is for the guys who wore this jersey before us,” Larkin said. “All those people should be here. Johnny especially, Matty his brother. To get it done today, it’s just an unbelievable feeling.’’
___
AP Winter Olympics: apnews.com/hub/milan-cortina-2026-winter-olympics
US men’s hockey team honors the late Johnny Gaudreau after winning Olympic gold
MILAN (AP) – Johnny Gaudreau’s No. 13 jersey was hanging in the U.S. locker room throughout the Olympics, and Dylan Larkin and Matthew Tkachuk carried it around the ice after the U.S. beat Canada in overtime to win the country’s first gold medal at the Games since 1980.
Then, the tribute to the late player known as “Johnny Hockey” went even further.
The oldest two of Johnny and Meredith Gaudreau’s three children were in attendance, along with their grandparents, Guy and Jane, and they got to be part of the celebration. Larkin and Werenski brought 3-year-old Noa and 2-year-old Johnny Jr. on the ice for the team photo, which also had Gaudreau’s jersey in it. To a man, players said he should have been with them.
“It meant everything,” said Werenski, who assisted on Jack Hughes’ golden goal in overtime. “This is something John would have been at. And to see his family here supporting us and seeing his kids, bringing them on the ice, we talked about playing for him, making him proud and I think we did that. Super special to see them and to have kids on the ice, he was a huge part of USA Hockey.”
Johnny and his brother, Matthew, died in August 2024 when they were struck by an SUV while riding bicycles near their hometown in New Jersey on the eve of their sister Katie’s wedding.
“He’s with us here in spirit for the whole tournament,” captain Auston Matthews said. “To have his jersey out there in the team photo and have his kids come out and be with us, we’re obviously thinking of him.”
An elite player a decade into his NHL career and the all-time U.S. leading scorer in international play, Johnny Gaudreau was on track to be in Milan. Guy Gaudreau said USA Hockey told the family that their oldest son was on the projected roster.
“He obviously would have been on this team — and been a huge part of it,” forward J.T. Miller said. “A guy I grew up with and against and knew pretty well. It’s more than hockey, at that point. … He deserved better, and he had a big part in how things went down today.”
Larkin, who was also close to Gaudreau, dedicated what is just the third U.S. men’s hockey gold in history to Gaudreau and former USA Hockey executive Jim Johannson, who died unexpectedly just before the 2018 Olympics.
“This is for the guys who wore this jersey before us,” Larkin said. “All those people should be here. Johnny especially, Matty his brother. To get it done today, it’s just an unbelievable feeling.’’
___
AP Winter Olympics: apnews.com/hub/milan-cortina-2026-winter-olympics
US men’s hockey team honors the late Johnny Gaudreau after winning Olympic gold
MILAN (AP) – Johnny Gaudreau’s No. 13 jersey was hanging in the U.S. locker room throughout the Olympics, and Dylan Larkin and Matthew Tkachuk carried it around the ice after the U.S. beat Canada in overtime to win the country’s first gold medal at the Games since 1980.
Then, the tribute to the late player known as “Johnny Hockey” went even further.
The oldest two of Johnny and Meredith Gaudreau’s three children were in attendance, along with their grandparents, Guy and Jane, and they got to be part of the celebration. Larkin and Werenski brought 3-year-old Noa and 2-year-old Johnny Jr. on the ice for the team photo, which also had Gaudreau’s jersey in it. To a man, players said he should have been with them.
“It meant everything,” said Werenski, who assisted on Jack Hughes’ golden goal in overtime. “This is something John would have been at. And to see his family here supporting us and seeing his kids, bringing them on the ice, we talked about playing for him, making him proud and I think we did that. Super special to see them and to have kids on the ice, he was a huge part of USA Hockey.”
Johnny and his brother, Matthew, died in August 2024 when they were struck by an SUV while riding bicycles near their hometown in New Jersey on the eve of their sister Katie’s wedding.
“He’s with us here in spirit for the whole tournament,” captain Auston Matthews said. “To have his jersey out there in the team photo and have his kids come out and be with us, we’re obviously thinking of him.”
An elite player a decade into his NHL career and the all-time U.S. leading scorer in international play, Johnny Gaudreau was on track to be in Milan. Guy Gaudreau said USA Hockey told the family that their oldest son was on the projected roster.
“He obviously would have been on this team — and been a huge part of it,” forward J.T. Miller said. “A guy I grew up with and against and knew pretty well. It’s more than hockey, at that point. … He deserved better, and he had a big part in how things went down today.”
Larkin, who was also close to Gaudreau, dedicated what is just the third U.S. men’s hockey gold in history to Gaudreau and former USA Hockey executive Jim Johannson, who died unexpectedly just before the 2018 Olympics.
“This is for the guys who wore this jersey before us,” Larkin said. “All those people should be here. Johnny especially, Matty his brother. To get it done today, it’s just an unbelievable feeling.’’
___
AP Winter Olympics: apnews.com/hub/milan-cortina-2026-winter-olympics
Son Heung-Min Plays Down Lionel Messi Hype Before LAFC vs. Inter Miami
Son Heung-Min’s LAFC returns to Major League Soccer this Feb. 21, hosting Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami at the LA Memorial Coliseum.
Son, 33, will face his first full tournament in MLS after arriving last summer at Los Angeles FC and generating an immediate impact. In half a season, Son scored 12 goals and provided three assists in 13 matches.
LAFC started its 2026 season on the right foot by defeating Real Espana 6-1 on Tuesday in the first leg of the round of 32 of the Concacaf Champions Cup.
Inter Miami, meanwhile, had a busy preseason but has not played any official matches. Messi’s team faced Alianza Lima, Atletico Nacional, and Barcelona SC. In this last match, the Argentine star was left injured.
Ahead of the match, Son refused to talk about Messi.
Son Heung-Min Refuses To Comment On Lionel Messi Before LAFC vs. Inter Miami
Landon Donovan Leaves Inter Miami, Lionel Messi Out of 2026 MLS Season Predictions
Major League Soccer is finally back. Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami visits Son Heung-min’s Los Angeles FC at the LA Memorial Coliseum this Saturday, Feb. 21, in the 2026 MLS season opener. Landon Donovan made a bold prediction that might not convince everyone.
LAFC started its 2026 season on the right foot by defeating Real Espana 6-1 on Tuesday in the first leg of the round of 32 of the Concacaf Champions Cup.
Inter Miami, meanwhile, had a busy preseason but has not played any official matches. Messi’s team faced Alianza Lima, Atletico Nacional, and Barcelona SC. In this last match, the Argentine star was left injured.
Ahead of the start of this new season, Donovan joined the predictions for 2026, and surprisingly left out Inter Miami and Messi, the reigning champions.
Not Inter Miami, Landon Donovan Names Surprise Contender In 2026 MLS Title Predictions
In a segment on Unfiltered Soccer, Donovan predicted that LAFC and Philadelphia Union would compete for the MLS Cup this season.
Regarding the champion, he sided with Son’s Los Angeles FC, whom he also picked as the winners of the 2026 MLS Supporters’ Shield.
Not only did he leave out Inter Miami, but he also left out Messi. Donovan predicted that San Diego FC’s Anders Dreyer will be the season MVP.
That said, the USMNT legend gave Miami some credit, predicting they will be champions of the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup.
MLS OPENER – Tiago’s strike not enough as Red Bulls Edge Orlando
In the 2026 Major League Soccer season opener for both teams, New York Red Bulls held on for a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Orlando City SC at Inter&Co Stadium, with Julian Hall’s early strike and resolute defending enough to withstand a late Lions fightback that culminated in Tiago’s dramatic 96th-minute consolation. The result reflected the Red Bulls’ superiority across large stretches of a contest that kept supporters on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
The tone was set inside eight minutes. Hall’s right-footed finish from close range guided to the center of the goal after a slick assist from Emil Forsberg. It was an early statement of intent from the visitors, who had clearly arrived with a plan and the confidence to execute it. Maxime Crépeau, Orlando’s new goalkeeper, had already been tested twice before Hall broke the deadlock — Jorge Ruvalcaba forcing a sharp stop in the 12th minute after being found by Adri Mehmeti, and again in the 27th minute when Ruvalcaba’s right-footed effort from the left side of the box was palmed away, this time with Forsberg providing the service.
Orlando pushed for an equalizer and had their moments. Marco Pasalic tested Ethan Horvath from outside the box in the 31st minute, with Tyrese Spicer providing the assist, but the Red Bulls goalkeeper stood firm. Then came the blow that effectively settled the contest: Julian Hall struck again in the 40th minute, rifling a right-footed shot from close range into the top left corner following a corner routine, with Adri Mehmeti delivering the assist. Two goals to the good at the break, New York had done the hard work and appeared in complete control.
The second half brought renewed pressure from Orlando, and Horvath was called into action repeatedly. Griffin Dorsey tested him in the 70th minute with a left-footed effort from the center of the box, only to be denied. The Lions pressed with increasing urgency as the clock wound down, with Martín Ojeda and Braian Ojeda both forcing blocks in a frantic spell around the 83rd minute. Substitute Tiago came agonizingly close before eventually finding the net — his header blocked in the 90th minute before, in the sixth minute of stoppage time, Tiago finally beat Horvath with a composed left-footed finish to the bottom left corner, assisted by fellow substitute Zakaria Taifi. It was a moment of quality, but it arrived too late to alter the outcome.
The statistics told the story of a match in which New York Red Bulls were the more dangerous side throughout. The Red Bulls outshot Orlando 22 to 17, and more tellingly, registered 13 shots on target compared to just six for the hosts. Possession was closely contested — New York edging it 52.2% to 47.8% — but the clinical edge belonged firmly to the visitors. The most remarkable number of the evening belonged to Crépeau, who made an extraordinary 11 saves. Without his heroics, the scoreline could have been far more damaging for Orlando.
The substitutions shaped the closing stages significantly. New York brought on Eric Choupo-Moting and Omar Valencia in the 75th minute, while Gustav Berggren replaced Mehmeti a minute later. Orlando responded by introducing Tiago for Spicer in the 76th minute and Taifi for Dorsey in the 86th — changes that ultimately produced the consolation goal but could not manufacture an equalizer. The tactical adjustments highlighted both teams’ desperation to control the match’s final chapter, though only the Red Bulls’ defensive organization held firm when it mattered most.
For Orlando, the defeat is a sobering start to their campaign, and the challenge now is recovering quickly. The Lions return to Inter&Co Stadium on March 1 when Inter Miami CF and Messi comes to town — a Florida Derby fixture that will carry extra weight after this result and demand an immediate response from Oscar Pareja’s side.
MLS OPENER – Tiago’s strike not enough as Red Bulls Edge Orlando
In the 2026 Major League Soccer season opener for both teams, New York Red Bulls held on for a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Orlando City SC at Inter&Co Stadium, with Julian Hall’s early strike and resolute defending enough to withstand a late Lions fightback that culminated in Tiago’s dramatic 96th-minute consolation. The result reflected the Red Bulls’ superiority across large stretches of a contest that kept supporters on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
The tone was set inside eight minutes. Hall’s right-footed finish from close range guided to the center of the goal after a slick assist from Emil Forsberg. It was an early statement of intent from the visitors, who had clearly arrived with a plan and the confidence to execute it. Maxime Crépeau, Orlando’s new goalkeeper, had already been tested twice before Hall broke the deadlock — Jorge Ruvalcaba forcing a sharp stop in the 12th minute after being found by Adri Mehmeti, and again in the 27th minute when Ruvalcaba’s right-footed effort from the left side of the box was palmed away, this time with Forsberg providing the service.
Orlando pushed for an equalizer and had their moments. Marco Pasalic tested Ethan Horvath from outside the box in the 31st minute, with Tyrese Spicer providing the assist, but the Red Bulls goalkeeper stood firm. Then came the blow that effectively settled the contest: Julian Hall struck again in the 40th minute, rifling a right-footed shot from close range into the top left corner following a corner routine, with Adri Mehmeti delivering the assist. Two goals to the good at the break, New York had done the hard work and appeared in complete control.
The second half brought renewed pressure from Orlando, and Horvath was called into action repeatedly. Griffin Dorsey tested him in the 70th minute with a left-footed effort from the center of the box, only to be denied. The Lions pressed with increasing urgency as the clock wound down, with Martín Ojeda and Braian Ojeda both forcing blocks in a frantic spell around the 83rd minute. Substitute Tiago came agonizingly close before eventually finding the net — his header blocked in the 90th minute before, in the sixth minute of stoppage time, Tiago finally beat Horvath with a composed left-footed finish to the bottom left corner, assisted by fellow substitute Zakaria Taifi. It was a moment of quality, but it arrived too late to alter the outcome.
The statistics told the story of a match in which New York Red Bulls were the more dangerous side throughout. The Red Bulls outshot Orlando 22 to 17, and more tellingly, registered 13 shots on target compared to just six for the hosts. Possession was closely contested — New York edging it 52.2% to 47.8% — but the clinical edge belonged firmly to the visitors. The most remarkable number of the evening belonged to Crépeau, who made an extraordinary 11 saves. Without his heroics, the scoreline could have been far more damaging for Orlando.
The substitutions shaped the closing stages significantly. New York brought on Eric Choupo-Moting and Omar Valencia in the 75th minute, while Gustav Berggren replaced Mehmeti a minute later. Orlando responded by introducing Tiago for Spicer in the 76th minute and Taifi for Dorsey in the 86th — changes that ultimately produced the consolation goal but could not manufacture an equalizer. The tactical adjustments highlighted both teams’ desperation to control the match’s final chapter, though only the Red Bulls’ defensive organization held firm when it mattered most.
For Orlando, the defeat is a sobering start to their campaign, and the challenge now is recovering quickly. The Lions return to Inter&Co Stadium on March 1 when Inter Miami CF and Messi comes to town — a Florida Derby fixture that will carry extra weight after this result and demand an immediate response from Oscar Pareja’s side.
Son Heung-Min Net Worth 2026 – LAFC Salary, MLS Contract, Career Earnings & Endorsements
Son Heung-min’s Los Angeles FC returns to Major League Soccer this Feb. 21, hosting Lionel Messi ‘s Inter Miami.
Son, 33, will face his first full tournament in MLS after arriving at LAFC last summer and making an immediate impact. In half a season, Son scored 12 goals and provided three assists in 13 matches.
On the eve of the season start, it is a good time to review some key data about the Korean star.
What Is Son Heung-Min’s Salary at LAFC in 2026?
According to ESPN’s Jeff Carlisle, Son has a salary of $11.2 million annually with LAFC, being one of the only players, along with Messi, in MLS to exceed $10 million per year. As a reference, Messi earned $20.4 million in his previous contract with Inter Miami, according to the mentioned journalist.
Son Heung-Min’s Career Earnings & Endorsements
Son Heung-min has accumulated career earnings of around $74.6 million, including his salary at LAFC and the 9 million pounds he earned on average at Tottenham Hotspur from 2015 to 2025, according to Spotrac.
Son also has other endorsements besides his soccer career. The Korean is a global brand ambassador for Burberry (fashion), Tumi (luxury travel), Samsung, and Adidas.
Additionally, he has been a partner with brands like Gillette, Calvin Klein, AIA Singapore, and Gentle Monster. Leveraging his popularity in Asia, he has also had ties with regional brands like SK Telecom and Tiger Beer.
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Son’s net worth in 2026 is $100 million.
Takeaways from FC Cincinnati’s opening win over Atlanta United
FC Cincinnati defeated Atlanta United 2-0 in their Major League Soccer season opener.
Gerardo “Dado” Valenzuela played well after replacing the injured Evander in the 13th minute.
Defender Nick Hagglund scored the team’s second goal nine months after a serious injury against the same opponent.
The defense earned its second consecutive clean sheet in competitive play this season.
FC Cincinnati lost the Major League Soccer Supporters’ Shield by a point to Philadelphia last year.
So starting the new season with three points was welcome for the home fans after a 2-0 win over Atlanta United.
Vancouver Whitecaps shut out Real Salt Lake in season opener
The host Vancouver Whitecaps beat Real Salt Lake 1-0 on Saturday in a Major League Soccer opener.
Vancouver newcomer Aziel Jackson, known as AZ, scored off a deflected pass in the 57th minute to lift the Whitecaps to the win. Tate Johnson’s cross from the left side deflected off defender DeAndre Yedlin to Jackson for a volley from the center of the area.
The Whitecaps acquired Jackson in the offseason on loan from Polish club Jagiellonia Białystok.
Vancouver goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka had two saves to earn the shutout. RSL’s Rafael Cabral had four saves.
German veteran Thomas Müller, who joined Vancouver last season, hit the right post with a shot from outside the area in the 16th minute.
Real Salt Lake’s Ariath Piol put the ball in the net in the 38th minute but RSL was ruled offsides.
Vancouver had a big advantage in possession in the game (58.2 minutes to 41.8) and a 13-10 edge on shots.
The Whitecaps lost in last season’s MLS Cup to Inter Miami.
Real Salt Lake’s home opener is next Saturday against the Seattle Sounders (5:30 p.m., Apple TV).
MLS investigating alleged video of Lionel Messi entering officials’ locker room
Major League Soccer is investigating allegations that Lionel Messi gained unauthorized access to the officials’ locker room following the match between Inter Miami and LAFC on Saturday at the LA Memorial Coliseum.
MLS was made aware of the incident after a video began circulating of the Inter Miami captain appearing to enter the referees’ premises momentarily.
Chris Rivett, Professional Referee Organization director of communications, however, confirmed to ESPN that Messi did not enter the officials’ locker room.
Messi cleared by MLS after review of post-match video
Feb 22 (Reuters) – Lionel Messi was cleared after a review by Major League Soccer determined that he did not violate any policy when he followed the match officials through a doorway following Inter Miami’s season-opening 3-0 defeat at LAFC, a league spokesperson said on Sunday.
MLS reviewed the incident, which occurred on Saturday and was captured on video, and determined the area Messi entered was not the referees’ locker room, nor was it a restricted area, and therefore no policy was violated, the spokesperson told Reuters.
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In the video, Inter Miami’s Luis Suarez is seen attempting to restrain Messi by the arm but the Argentine still managed to walk through the doorway in the bowels of the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum before re-emerging moments later.
The spokesperson said restricted areas at the venue would have had clear signage.
Inter Miami did not immediately respond when asked by Reuters for comment.
Defending champions Miami opened the season with a 3-0 loss in a game that drew 75,673 fans and was the highest-attended match in MLS opening weekend history.
MLS will not discipline Lionel Messi for post-match actions
Lionel Messi did not violate Major League Soccer policy and will not face any form of punishment regarding a post-match incident involving referees on Saturday evening, according to an MLS spokesperson.
In a video which was posted by Sintesis Deportes, Inter Miami teammate Luis Suarez appears to attempt to prevent Messi from entering a room in the locker room area of Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Messi escapes Suarez’s grasp before reappearing eight seconds later, joining his teammates walking to their locker room.
The MLS spokesperson, however, told The Athletic that the door in the video was not to the referees’ locker room, and Messi did not enter a restricted area.
FC Cincinnati defender Matt Miazga was investigated and suspended three matches for
Landon Donovan Leaves Inter Miami, Lionel Messi Out of 2026 MLS Season Predictions
Major League Soccer is finally back. Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami visits Son Heung-min’s Los Angeles FC at the LA Memorial Coliseum this Saturday, Feb. 21, in the 2026 MLS season opener. Landon Donovan made a bold prediction that might not convince everyone.
LAFC started its 2026 season on the right foot by defeating Real Espana 6-1 on Tuesday in the first leg of the round of 32 of the Concacaf Champions Cup.
Inter Miami, meanwhile, had a busy preseason but has not played any official matches. Messi’s team faced Alianza Lima, Atletico Nacional, and Barcelona SC. In this last match, the Argentine star was left injured.
Ahead of the start of this new season, Donovan joined the predictions for 2026, and surprisingly left out Inter Miami and Messi, the reigning champions.
Not Inter Miami, Landon Donovan Names Surprise Contender In 2026 MLS Title Predictions
In a segment on Unfiltered Soccer, Donovan predicted that LAFC and Philadelphia Union would compete for the MLS Cup this season.
Regarding the champion, he sided with Son’s Los Angeles FC, whom he also picked as the winners of the 2026 MLS Supporters’ Shield.
Not only did he leave out Inter Miami, but he also left out Messi. Donovan predicted that San Diego FC’s Anders Dreyer will be the season MVP.
That said, the USMNT legend gave Miami some credit, predicting they will be champions of the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup.
MLS OPENER – Tiago’s strike not enough as Red Bulls Edge Orlando
In the 2026 Major League Soccer season opener for both teams, New York Red Bulls held on for a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Orlando City SC at Inter&Co Stadium, with Julian Hall’s early strike and resolute defending enough to withstand a late Lions fightback that culminated in Tiago’s dramatic 96th-minute consolation. The result reflected the Red Bulls’ superiority across large stretches of a contest that kept supporters on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
The tone was set inside eight minutes. Hall’s right-footed finish from close range guided to the center of the goal after a slick assist from Emil Forsberg. It was an early statement of intent from the visitors, who had clearly arrived with a plan and the confidence to execute it. Maxime Crépeau, Orlando’s new goalkeeper, had already been tested twice before Hall broke the deadlock — Jorge Ruvalcaba forcing a sharp stop in the 12th minute after being found by Adri Mehmeti, and again in the 27th minute when Ruvalcaba’s right-footed effort from the left side of the box was palmed away, this time with Forsberg providing the service.
Orlando pushed for an equalizer and had their moments. Marco Pasalic tested Ethan Horvath from outside the box in the 31st minute, with Tyrese Spicer providing the assist, but the Red Bulls goalkeeper stood firm. Then came the blow that effectively settled the contest: Julian Hall struck again in the 40th minute, rifling a right-footed shot from close range into the top left corner following a corner routine, with Adri Mehmeti delivering the assist. Two goals to the good at the break, New York had done the hard work and appeared in complete control.
The second half brought renewed pressure from Orlando, and Horvath was called into action repeatedly. Griffin Dorsey tested him in the 70th minute with a left-footed effort from the center of the box, only to be denied. The Lions pressed with increasing urgency as the clock wound down, with Martín Ojeda and Braian Ojeda both forcing blocks in a frantic spell around the 83rd minute. Substitute Tiago came agonizingly close before eventually finding the net — his header blocked in the 90th minute before, in the sixth minute of stoppage time, Tiago finally beat Horvath with a composed left-footed finish to the bottom left corner, assisted by fellow substitute Zakaria Taifi. It was a moment of quality, but it arrived too late to alter the outcome.
The statistics told the story of a match in which New York Red Bulls were the more dangerous side throughout. The Red Bulls outshot Orlando 22 to 17, and more tellingly, registered 13 shots on target compared to just six for the hosts. Possession was closely contested — New York edging it 52.2% to 47.8% — but the clinical edge belonged firmly to the visitors. The most remarkable number of the evening belonged to Crépeau, who made an extraordinary 11 saves. Without his heroics, the scoreline could have been far more damaging for Orlando.
The substitutions shaped the closing stages significantly. New York brought on Eric Choupo-Moting and Omar Valencia in the 75th minute, while Gustav Berggren replaced Mehmeti a minute later. Orlando responded by introducing Tiago for Spicer in the 76th minute and Taifi for Dorsey in the 86th — changes that ultimately produced the consolation goal but could not manufacture an equalizer. The tactical adjustments highlighted both teams’ desperation to control the match’s final chapter, though only the Red Bulls’ defensive organization held firm when it mattered most.
For Orlando, the defeat is a sobering start to their campaign, and the challenge now is recovering quickly. The Lions return to Inter&Co Stadium on March 1 when Inter Miami CF and Messi comes to town — a Florida Derby fixture that will carry extra weight after this result and demand an immediate response from Oscar Pareja’s side.
MLS OPENER – Tiago’s strike not enough as Red Bulls Edge Orlando
In the 2026 Major League Soccer season opener for both teams, New York Red Bulls held on for a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Orlando City SC at Inter&Co Stadium, with Julian Hall’s early strike and resolute defending enough to withstand a late Lions fightback that culminated in Tiago’s dramatic 96th-minute consolation. The result reflected the Red Bulls’ superiority across large stretches of a contest that kept supporters on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
The tone was set inside eight minutes. Hall’s right-footed finish from close range guided to the center of the goal after a slick assist from Emil Forsberg. It was an early statement of intent from the visitors, who had clearly arrived with a plan and the confidence to execute it. Maxime Crépeau, Orlando’s new goalkeeper, had already been tested twice before Hall broke the deadlock — Jorge Ruvalcaba forcing a sharp stop in the 12th minute after being found by Adri Mehmeti, and again in the 27th minute when Ruvalcaba’s right-footed effort from the left side of the box was palmed away, this time with Forsberg providing the service.
Orlando pushed for an equalizer and had their moments. Marco Pasalic tested Ethan Horvath from outside the box in the 31st minute, with Tyrese Spicer providing the assist, but the Red Bulls goalkeeper stood firm. Then came the blow that effectively settled the contest: Julian Hall struck again in the 40th minute, rifling a right-footed shot from close range into the top left corner following a corner routine, with Adri Mehmeti delivering the assist. Two goals to the good at the break, New York had done the hard work and appeared in complete control.
The second half brought renewed pressure from Orlando, and Horvath was called into action repeatedly. Griffin Dorsey tested him in the 70th minute with a left-footed effort from the center of the box, only to be denied. The Lions pressed with increasing urgency as the clock wound down, with Martín Ojeda and Braian Ojeda both forcing blocks in a frantic spell around the 83rd minute. Substitute Tiago came agonizingly close before eventually finding the net — his header blocked in the 90th minute before, in the sixth minute of stoppage time, Tiago finally beat Horvath with a composed left-footed finish to the bottom left corner, assisted by fellow substitute Zakaria Taifi. It was a moment of quality, but it arrived too late to alter the outcome.
The statistics told the story of a match in which New York Red Bulls were the more dangerous side throughout. The Red Bulls outshot Orlando 22 to 17, and more tellingly, registered 13 shots on target compared to just six for the hosts. Possession was closely contested — New York edging it 52.2% to 47.8% — but the clinical edge belonged firmly to the visitors. The most remarkable number of the evening belonged to Crépeau, who made an extraordinary 11 saves. Without his heroics, the scoreline could have been far more damaging for Orlando.
The substitutions shaped the closing stages significantly. New York brought on Eric Choupo-Moting and Omar Valencia in the 75th minute, while Gustav Berggren replaced Mehmeti a minute later. Orlando responded by introducing Tiago for Spicer in the 76th minute and Taifi for Dorsey in the 86th — changes that ultimately produced the consolation goal but could not manufacture an equalizer. The tactical adjustments highlighted both teams’ desperation to control the match’s final chapter, though only the Red Bulls’ defensive organization held firm when it mattered most.
For Orlando, the defeat is a sobering start to their campaign, and the challenge now is recovering quickly. The Lions return to Inter&Co Stadium on March 1 when Inter Miami CF and Messi comes to town — a Florida Derby fixture that will carry extra weight after this result and demand an immediate response from Oscar Pareja’s side.
Son Heung-Min Net Worth 2026 – LAFC Salary, MLS Contract, Career Earnings & Endorsements
Son Heung-min’s Los Angeles FC returns to Major League Soccer this Feb. 21, hosting Lionel Messi ‘s Inter Miami.
Son, 33, will face his first full tournament in MLS after arriving at LAFC last summer and making an immediate impact. In half a season, Son scored 12 goals and provided three assists in 13 matches.
On the eve of the season start, it is a good time to review some key data about the Korean star.
What Is Son Heung-Min’s Salary at LAFC in 2026?
According to ESPN’s Jeff Carlisle, Son has a salary of $11.2 million annually with LAFC, being one of the only players, along with Messi, in MLS to exceed $10 million per year. As a reference, Messi earned $20.4 million in his previous contract with Inter Miami, according to the mentioned journalist.
Son Heung-Min’s Career Earnings & Endorsements
Son Heung-min has accumulated career earnings of around $74.6 million, including his salary at LAFC and the 9 million pounds he earned on average at Tottenham Hotspur from 2015 to 2025, according to Spotrac.
Son also has other endorsements besides his soccer career. The Korean is a global brand ambassador for Burberry (fashion), Tumi (luxury travel), Samsung, and Adidas.
Additionally, he has been a partner with brands like Gillette, Calvin Klein, AIA Singapore, and Gentle Monster. Leveraging his popularity in Asia, he has also had ties with regional brands like SK Telecom and Tiger Beer.
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Son’s net worth in 2026 is $100 million.
Takeaways from FC Cincinnati’s opening win over Atlanta United
FC Cincinnati defeated Atlanta United 2-0 in their Major League Soccer season opener.
Gerardo “Dado” Valenzuela played well after replacing the injured Evander in the 13th minute.
Defender Nick Hagglund scored the team’s second goal nine months after a serious injury against the same opponent.
The defense earned its second consecutive clean sheet in competitive play this season.
FC Cincinnati lost the Major League Soccer Supporters’ Shield by a point to Philadelphia last year.
So starting the new season with three points was welcome for the home fans after a 2-0 win over Atlanta United.
Vancouver Whitecaps shut out Real Salt Lake in season opener
The host Vancouver Whitecaps beat Real Salt Lake 1-0 on Saturday in a Major League Soccer opener.
Vancouver newcomer Aziel Jackson, known as AZ, scored off a deflected pass in the 57th minute to lift the Whitecaps to the win. Tate Johnson’s cross from the left side deflected off defender DeAndre Yedlin to Jackson for a volley from the center of the area.
The Whitecaps acquired Jackson in the offseason on loan from Polish club Jagiellonia Białystok.
Vancouver goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka had two saves to earn the shutout. RSL’s Rafael Cabral had four saves.
German veteran Thomas Müller, who joined Vancouver last season, hit the right post with a shot from outside the area in the 16th minute.
Real Salt Lake’s Ariath Piol put the ball in the net in the 38th minute but RSL was ruled offsides.
Vancouver had a big advantage in possession in the game (58.2 minutes to 41.8) and a 13-10 edge on shots.
The Whitecaps lost in last season’s MLS Cup to Inter Miami.
Real Salt Lake’s home opener is next Saturday against the Seattle Sounders (5:30 p.m., Apple TV).
MLS investigating alleged video of Lionel Messi entering officials’ locker room
Major League Soccer is investigating allegations that Lionel Messi gained unauthorized access to the officials’ locker room following the match between Inter Miami and LAFC on Saturday at the LA Memorial Coliseum.
MLS was made aware of the incident after a video began circulating of the Inter Miami captain appearing to enter the referees’ premises momentarily.
Chris Rivett, Professional Referee Organization director of communications, however, confirmed to ESPN that Messi did not enter the officials’ locker room.
Messi cleared by MLS after review of post-match video
Feb 22 (Reuters) – Lionel Messi was cleared after a review by Major League Soccer determined that he did not violate any policy when he followed the match officials through a doorway following Inter Miami’s season-opening 3-0 defeat at LAFC, a league spokesperson said on Sunday.
MLS reviewed the incident, which occurred on Saturday and was captured on video, and determined the area Messi entered was not the referees’ locker room, nor was it a restricted area, and therefore no policy was violated, the spokesperson told Reuters.
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In the video, Inter Miami’s Luis Suarez is seen attempting to restrain Messi by the arm but the Argentine still managed to walk through the doorway in the bowels of the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum before re-emerging moments later.
The spokesperson said restricted areas at the venue would have had clear signage.
Inter Miami did not immediately respond when asked by Reuters for comment.
Defending champions Miami opened the season with a 3-0 loss in a game that drew 75,673 fans and was the highest-attended match in MLS opening weekend history.
MLS will not discipline Lionel Messi for post-match actions
Lionel Messi did not violate Major League Soccer policy and will not face any form of punishment regarding a post-match incident involving referees on Saturday evening, according to an MLS spokesperson.
In a video which was posted by Sintesis Deportes, Inter Miami teammate Luis Suarez appears to attempt to prevent Messi from entering a room in the locker room area of Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Messi escapes Suarez’s grasp before reappearing eight seconds later, joining his teammates walking to their locker room.
The MLS spokesperson, however, told The Athletic that the door in the video was not to the referees’ locker room, and Messi did not enter a restricted area.
FC Cincinnati defender Matt Miazga was investigated and suspended three matches for
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.”
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.