Category: Sports

For the third day in a row, the Los Angeles Dodgers have made changes to their pitching roster, bringing up right-handed reliever Wyatt Mills from their Triple-A Oklahoma City team on Sunday. The move comes as the team sent right-hander Paul Gervase back down to the minors.

The 31-year-old Mills is preparing for his first appearance in a Dodgers uniform after joining the organization as a free agent in August following his release from the Boston Red Sox. During his time with Oklahoma City this season, Mills posted a 3-2 record with a 3.26 ERA across 14 relief outings. He struck out 28 batters while walking just seven in 19 1/3 innings of work.

Mills hasn’t appeared in a major league game since the 2022 season and carries a career record of 0-1 with a 6.21 ERA through 38 relief appearances with both the Seattle Mariners and Kansas City Royals. The right-hander was sidelined for two complete seasons after undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2023.

Meanwhile, the 25-year-old Gervase had just made his 2024 season debut with Los Angeles on Saturday, allowing one run across three innings while striking out five batters. Throughout his brief major league career spanning seven appearances over the last two seasons, he maintains a 3.97 ERA.

CHICAGO — After enduring their worst season in franchise history, the Washington Wizards have been rewarded with the top selection in this year’s NBA draft.

The Wizards claimed the first overall pick during Sunday’s draft lottery, earning them their initial opportunity to select first since they chose John Wall with the top spot in 2010. Wall served as the team’s representative during the lottery proceedings.

The franchise entered the lottery with 14% odds of securing the number one selection, sharing the highest probability with Brooklyn and Indiana. Washington faced roughly even chances of either landing a top-four selection or dropping to the fifth position.

However, three consecutive seasons of struggles — representing the franchise’s most difficult stretch across its 65-year existence — ultimately delivered results for the Wizards on Sunday. The team compiled a dismal 17-65 record this past season, including a game where they surrendered 83 points to Miami’s Bam Adebayo, the second-highest individual performance in league history.

Washington made significant moves last season by acquiring Trae Young and Anthony Davis through trades, and now possesses an opportunity to add another franchise-changing talent with their top selection.

The remaining top picks will see Utah selecting second, Memphis third, and Chicago fourth.

The Los Angeles Clippers secured the fifth pick through a previous trade with Indiana, followed by Brooklyn at sixth, Sacramento seventh, Atlanta eighth, Dallas ninth, Milwaukee tenth, Golden State eleventh, Oklahoma City twelfth, Miami thirteenth, and Charlotte fourteenth.

Draft proceedings begin June 23 in New York, while the combine in Chicago commences Monday.

Four prospects are widely viewed as leading candidates for the top selection, all departing college after their freshman campaigns:

— BYU’s AJ Dybantsa, who paced the nation with 25.5 points per game during his single collegiate season.

— Duke’s Cameron Boozer, the Associated Press player of the year who posted averages of 22.5 points and 10.1 rebounds.

— Kansas’ Darryn Peterson, who contributed 20.2 points across 24 appearances for the Jayhawks.

— North Carolina’s Caleb Wilson, who recorded 19.8 points and 9.4 rebounds while shooting 58% from the field.

All four prospects, along with several other projected first-round selections, attended Sunday’s lottery announcement at Chicago’s Navy Pier.

“Standing here is kind of crazy,” Dybantsa said. “One of these teams is going to be home.”

This marked the eighth and potentially final year under the current lottery format, which gives the league’s worst teams a 14% chance at the top pick.

New anti-tanking measures received preliminary approval last month and await final ratification from the league’s Board of Governors in coming weeks, with general managers gathering in Chicago on Tuesday for likely final discussions.

Beginning next season under the proposed changes, the three worst teams would have just 5.4% odds of winning the lottery, while the following seven teams would each have 8.1% chances. The lottery field would expand from 14 to 16 teams if the plan receives expected approval.

New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby will be sidelined for Sunday’s Game 4 matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers due to a right hamstring strain, despite earlier indications suggesting he might be available to play.

“He’s out for tonight but he’s the same thing, he’s day-to-day (moving forward),” Knicks head coach Mike Brown said Sunday.

With New York holding a commanding 3-0 advantage in the Eastern Conference semifinals series, the team can afford to take a conservative approach with Anunoby’s injury management.

This marks the second consecutive game Anunoby will miss, as he was also absent during Game 3 when New York secured a 108-94 win in Philadelphia. Sunday’s fourth game will also take place in Philadelphia.

Throughout eight playoff contests this season, the 28-year-old forward has posted impressive numbers, contributing 21.4 points per game along with 7.5 rebounds, 1.9 steals and 1.1 blocks while maintaining exceptional shooting efficiency at 53.8% from beyond the three-point line and 61.9% from the field overall.

The Los Angeles Sparks have added guard Kate Martin to their development roster on Sunday, just three days following her release from the Golden State Valkyries.

Martin, who was teammates with Caitlin Clark during their time at Iowa, was chosen 18th overall in the second round of the 2024 WNBA Draft by the Las Vegas Aces.

During her first professional season with the Aces, Martin appeared in 34 contests with two starting assignments, contributing 2.6 points per game while connecting on 35.5% of her three-point attempts across 11.5 minutes of action. The Valkyries selected her during their expansion draft, and she improved to 6.2 points per game in 42 appearances with four starts, playing 16.4 minutes per contest last season.

“Kate is a gifted shooter, whose grittiness and winning history mesh well with Sparks basketball,” said Sparks general manager Raegan Pebley. “She’s confident in her shot, plays tenacious defense and is an unselfish, high-energy teammate. We’re eager to watch Kate develop within our system.”

During her collegiate career, Martin achieved a rare milestone by becoming the first women’s basketball player in Iowa history to record at least 900 points, 500 rebounds, 400 assists, 120 steals and 60 blocks.

Development contracts allow WNBA franchises to maintain two additional roster positions that operate as internal training programs while staying outside salary cap restrictions. These players may be activated for as many as 12 regular season games.

Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras was forced to exit Sunday’s matchup against the Tampa Bay Rays after taking a pitch to his right hand during the opening inning. The ball was thrown by Rays pitcher Nick Martinez.

While Contreras managed to complete his trip around the bases, he did not take the field when the second inning began. Team officials initially described the injury as a contusion but announced plans to conduct medical imaging tests to fully evaluate the damage.

This marks the eighth time this season that Contreras has been struck by a pitch, placing him in a three-way tie for most in Major League Baseball alongside St. Louis players J.J. Wetherholt and Ivan Herrera.

The veteran player, who will celebrate his 34th birthday on Wednesday, currently paces Boston’s roster with eight home runs and 23 runs batted in while maintaining a .259 batting average across 39 games this season.

This marks Contreras’s debut campaign with the Red Sox after being selected as an All-Star three times during his career. Over 1,116 major league games spanning stints with the Chicago Cubs from 2016-2022, the St. Louis Cardinals from 2023-2025, and now Boston, he has compiled a .258 career batting average alongside 180 home runs and 571 RBIs.

Andruw Monasterio stepped in to take over first base duties and managed to collect hits during his first two plate appearances of the game.

Vegas Golden Knights team captain Mark Stone has been ruled out for Sunday’s Game 4 matchup against the Anaheim Ducks, head coach John Tortorella confirmed.

The team leader suffered a lower-body injury during the closing moments of the opening period in Friday night’s commanding 6-2 win against Anaheim. The Golden Knights currently hold a 2-1 advantage in the seven-game Western Conference second-round playoff series.

Veteran forward Brandon Saad will step into the lineup to replace Stone, who has contributed seven points through nine playoff contests this season with three goals and four assists.

Stone, who celebrates his 34th birthday this Wednesday, posted career-best numbers during the regular season with 73 points on 28 goals and 45 assists, along with a plus-26 rating across 60 games.

Throughout his NHL career spanning 766 games between Ottawa (2012-19) and Vegas, Stone has accumulated 707 points with 259 goals and 448 assists, maintaining a plus-167 rating.

The San Francisco Giants welcomed back left-handed pitcher Sam Hentges on Sunday after the 29-year-old spent almost two years recovering from multiple injuries.

Hentges hasn’t appeared in a professional game since July 10, 2024, when he was playing for the Cleveland Guardians. A shoulder injury sidelined him initially, and after two months of rehabilitation failed to resolve the issue, doctors performed surgery to fix his labrum and shoulder capsule.

The pitcher’s troubles continued as he missed all of the 2025 season and required additional knee surgery in August. He joined the Giants organization in December, but his rehabilitation process stretched into the current season.

Throughout his major league career with Cleveland starting in 2021, Hentges compiled a 7-8 record with a 4.18 earned run average across 168 games, including 12 as a starting pitcher.

The Giants also brought up right-handed pitcher Dylan Smith from their Triple-A affiliate in Sacramento, while sending Ryan Walker and Gregory Santos down to the minor leagues.

Both Hentges and Smith will be making their first appearances in Giants uniforms. Smith, age 25, has limited big league experience with seven games for Detroit last season. This year at Sacramento, he posted a 2.13 ERA with an 0-1 record in nine relief outings.

Walker, 30, struggled this season with a 6.46 ERA in 16 relief appearances, going 0-1 with three saves in six chances. Santos, 26, appeared in three games out of the bullpen with a 3.60 ERA.

The son of Ohio State head football coach Ryan Day has made his college decision, announcing Sunday via social media that he will play quarterback for Northwestern University beginning in 2027.

R.J. Day, currently a high school senior, selected the Wildcats after considering offers from multiple programs including Purdue, Syracuse, Cincinnati, and South Florida.

The 6-foot-1, 205-pound quarterback has been a three-year starter at St. Francis DeSales High School in Columbus, Ohio, where he has established impressive career statistics with 5,714 passing yards and 54 touchdown passes. During his junior season in fall 2025, Day broke single-season school records by throwing for 2,710 yards and 25 touchdowns.

Northwestern’s current roster under head coach David Braun includes eight quarterbacks for the 2026 season, featuring transfer Aiden Chiles from Michigan State and freshman Johnny O’Brien.

When Day arrives at Northwestern, he will work with offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, who is entering his first year in that role with the Wildcats. Kelly previously served as the offensive coordinator for Ohio State during their 2024 national championship season and also held the same position at New Hampshire when Ryan Day played quarterback there from 1998-2001, setting multiple school records. Kelly has also been a head coach at Oregon, UCLA, and with the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles.

Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper was back in the starting lineup for Sunday’s series finale against the Colorado Rockies after missing most of Saturday’s game due to a migraine.

The veteran first baseman appeared fully recovered from the health issue that forced his early departure during the first inning of Philadelphia’s 9-3 win over Colorado the previous day.

Harper took his usual spot batting third and playing first base as the teams wrapped up their series in Philadelphia, with each club having won one of the first two contests.

The 33-year-old slugger is currently hitting .282 this season with nine home runs and 23 RBIs across 40 games played.

Harper brings an impressive resume to the field, having captured National League MVP honors twice in 2015 and 2021, along with eight All-Star selections. Throughout his major league career spanning time with both Washington (2012-18) and Philadelphia, he has compiled a .280 batting average with 372 home runs and 1,074 RBIs over 1,825 games. The former Nationals star also earned NL Rookie of the Year recognition in 2012.

The Carolina Hurricanes have achieved their goal of reaching the Eastern Conference final after years of playoff disappointments, setting themselves up for another chance to overcome a persistent obstacle.

The Hurricanes — who remain the sole unbeaten squad in this year’s NHL postseason — now face an extended waiting period before beginning their third-round matchup.

Carolina defeated Philadelphia 3-2 in overtime Saturday evening, making history as the first franchise to complete back-to-back sweeps in the opening two playoff rounds since the NHL adopted the best-of-seven format across all rounds in 1987. This achievement marks their fourth conference final appearance in eight playoff campaigns under head coach Rod Brind’Amour, and their third such appearance in the past four years.

The Hurricanes await the victor of the Montreal-Buffalo series, which continues through at least Thursday. As the Eastern Conference’s top-seeded team, Carolina enjoyed nearly a complete week of rest following their first-round sweep of Ottawa.

“I think it’s probably going to be an even longer break this time,” veteran forward Taylor Hall commented following Saturday’s victory in Philadelphia.

“The big positive is we’re on to the third round relatively unscathed and healthy. You don’t want to see injuries per se, but we hope these series go far and these teams have battles. That’s the advantage we’re going to have. … Rod, our strength staff, all of our staff, do a good job of making sure that we’re ready athletically to play. And from there, we get our footing pretty quickly.”

Carolina has executed this approach flawlessly since capturing their opening playoff contest on April 18. The team has already demonstrated their ability to emerge strong following extended breaks, dominating Philadelphia in the first period of their series opener en route to a 3-0 victory.

“We had a plan, and clearly it was OK,” Brind’Amour explained, “so we can follow that and run with it.”

The Hurricanes’ strategy centers on relentless effort and high energy: applying aggressive forechecking pressure to force opponent errors, maintaining offensive zone possession, and generating multiple scoring opportunities while limiting counterattacks.

This explains why the advantages of rested bodies and refreshed minds have outweighed concerns about potential rust.

Take veteran netminder Frederik Andersen as an example. The 36-year-old Danish goaltender had appeared in 32 playoff contests for Carolina over the previous three seasons, raising questions about his workload management alongside 31-game winner Brandon Bussi.

However, Andersen has emerged as the playoffs’ standout goaltender, posting a 1.12 goals-against average alongside a .950 save percentage. He’s recorded two shutouts and faced 25 shots or fewer in five of his eight appearances. The upcoming break will provide additional recovery time.

“You don’t really want to add extra games if you can avoid it,” Andersen noted.

Consider also defenseman Sean Walker’s situation.

Following Thursday’s Game 3 road victory, he received word from his wife Taylor in North Carolina that their first child was arriving. Walker caught an early morning flight home for his daughter’s birth, perfectly timed for Mother’s Day. After eating his pregame meal in the hospital cafeteria, he departed for Philadelphia around 2 p.m. Saturday ahead of the 6:15 p.m. start time.

“I didn’t want to get on the boys and tell them we better win tonight, but I’m really appreciative that everybody dug in,” Walker shared. “The sweep’s huge for everybody. But to take this time to just be with my family is going to be really special.”

Carolina has excelled on the penalty kill, a consistent strength, successfully defending 38 of 40 opportunities (95%) while scoring shorthanded in Game 3 at Philadelphia. Offensively, the second line featuring Hall, Logan Stankoven and Jackson Blake has been exceptional, combining for 14 goals and 31 points across eight games.

This production has compensated for a slow start from the top line of Sebastian Aho, Andrei Svechnikov and Seth Jarvis, plus a power play converting just 5 of 37 attempts (13.5%) after ranking fourth during the regular season at 24.9%.

Despite these challenges, Carolina never fell behind in their initial five postseason contests and has won their last five games when positioned to eliminate opponents.

Now they face a familiar challenge.

Boston swept an inexperienced Carolina squad in the 2019 Eastern final after the Hurricanes ended a nine-year playoff absence in Brind’Amour’s inaugural season. Florida swept Carolina in 2023 with four one-goal victories, then eliminated them in five games last season.

The Hurricanes now have another opportunity.

“The season is so long and there’s that 82-game season we talk about that no one really gives much credit to, and yet this team’s played well for eight months,” Brind’Amour said. “They didn’t just get hot at the end. It’s been night in, night out like this. And that’s the biggest takeaway for me. Probably the thing I’m most proud of about this group is that.

“And now, here we are. We’ve got to find a way to get that next step.”

The Minnesota Twins made a pitching roster adjustment Sunday, bringing left-handed pitcher Kendry Rojas back up from their Triple-A St. Paul affiliate while sending fellow southpaw Kody Funderburk down to the minor league team.

This marks Rojas’ second call-up to the major leagues this year. The young pitcher first appeared in the big leagues on April 22, where he threw two innings without giving up any runs against the New York Mets, though he surrendered two hits and issued three walks in what ended as a no-decision.

The 23-year-old Rojas has compiled a 1-1 record with a 2.20 earned run average across six outings for St. Paul, including two starts.

Meanwhile, the 29-year-old Funderburk heads back to the minors after posting a 1-1 record with one save and a 2.81 ERA through 19 relief outings this season for Minnesota. Since joining the Twins organization in 2023, Funderburk has appeared in 96 games and recorded three saves along with 20 holds.

The New York Yankees have activated left-handed pitcher Carlos Rodon from the 15-day injured list on Sunday, ending his minor league rehabilitation assignment following elbow surgery.

The 33-year-old All-Star is slated to take the mound Sunday against Milwaukee as New York looks to prevent being swept in their three-game series with the Brewers.

To make room on the roster, the Yankees sent right-handed relief pitcher Kervin Castro down to their Triple-A affiliate in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

Rodon underwent surgery on October 15 to remove loose particles from his left elbow and reduce a bone spur, just days after the Yankees’ 2024 season concluded.

The southpaw enjoyed a standout 2025 campaign, making a career-best 33 starts while compiling an 18-9 record and 3.09 ERA. His impressive season earned him All-Star recognition, and he ranked 10th in Major League Baseball with 203 strikeouts and maintained a 1.05 WHIP.

Data from Inside Edge showed opposing hitters managed just a .154 batting average against Rodon at home, the lowest mark in the majors.

However, he faced difficulties during the postseason, surrendering nine runs across 8 1/3 innings in two starts.

During his rehabilitation stint in the minors, Rodon completed three starts without earning a win or loss, posting a 3.38 ERA. His final tuning-up appearance for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Tuesday proved challenging, as he gave up six runs (five earned) on seven hits over 6 1/3 innings while throwing 83 pitches. He issued two walks and recorded four strikeouts.

“This being probably my third time through a lengthy rehab process, I have some experience, although most people don’t want to really say that,” Rodon told the New York Post on Saturday. “Just (leaning) back on those times and working on the craft and trying to get back here and help the team.”

Rodon has found success against Milwaukee throughout his career, holding a 2-1 record with a 2.42 ERA across five starts versus the Brewers. He has defeated Milwaukee in his single start against them in each of the past two seasons, surrendering just two combined runs on six hits over 11 1/3 innings.

The veteran pitcher is beginning his 12th major league season and fourth year with the Yankees organization.

As a three-time All-Star selection, Rodon brings a career record of 93-72 with a 3.73 ERA and 1.22 WHIP to the mound. The Miami, Florida native has accumulated 1,409 strikeouts and 477 walks across 1,282 innings in 231 appearances (226 starts).

Castro made just one appearance for New York, surrendering one earned run over two innings during Friday’s 6-0 defeat to Milwaukee.

The Colorado Avalanche’s flawless playoff journey came to an abrupt halt, and now they face a critical goaltending decision heading into Game 4.

Scott Wedgewood and the top-seeded Western Conference team had dominated their postseason run with six straight victories before encountering a determined Minnesota Wild squad that delivered a decisive 5-1 defeat on home ice during Saturday’s Game 3 of their second-round matchup.

The defeat itself was troubling enough, but equally telling was head coach Jared Bednar’s choice to remove Wedgewood from the net after Minnesota’s Ryan Hartman scored a power-play goal just 4:23 into the middle period, extending the Wild’s advantage to 3-0.

The 33-year-old Wedgewood had been between the pipes for every playoff minute until he was replaced by Mackenzie Blackwood.

Throughout his eight-year NHL career, Wedgewood has primarily served as a backup netminder, but he appeared in a career-best 45 regular season contests for Colorado this year. During their opening playoff round, he was exceptional, surrendering only five goals as the Avalanche swept the Los Angeles Kings in four games.

However, the second round has presented different challenges. Wedgewood gave up six goals in the series opener against Minnesota, though Colorado managed a wild 9-6 victory. He bounced back strongly in Game 2 on Tuesday, making 29 saves in a 5-2 Colorado triumph.

But by Saturday’s Game 3, Bednar had seen enough to make a change.

“I thought that Wedgie was playing hard, and I think maybe he looked a little too aggressive on a couple of those,” Bednar said. “Like the penalty kill, it ends up without a stint of getting aggressive coming across, and then they find the back of the net. The next one, gets a piece of Taser. I think it’s a pass, and it ends up an empty net. He’s out too far, and I just felt like from what I’ve seen out of Blackwood here recently, a rested guy and a guy that we trust, I felt like it was a good opportunity to get him in and see if it sparked our group.”

Before his removal, Wedgewood recorded nine saves while surrendering three goals. Blackwood then entered and made 12 stops, allowing just one goal over his 32:27 of ice time. Minnesota capped off their victory with an empty-net goal from Matt Boldy.

The goaltending tandem, known as “The Lumber Yard,” shared duties almost equally during Colorado’s outstanding regular season that produced 121 points with a 55-16-11 record. Wedgewood compiled a 31-6-1 record with a 2.02 goals-against average and .921 save percentage, while Blackwood achieved a 23-10-2 mark with a 2.51 goals-against average and .902 save percentage.

“We’ll have a decision to make, but there’s a decision to make every night,” Bednar said. “You know, some are easier than others. I thought Blackwood was good. … So, yeah, we’ll talk about it and make a decision.”

Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona announced Sunday that rookie pitcher Rhett Lowder will be sidelined for at least two weeks with a shoulder injury affecting his throwing arm.

The 24-year-old right-hander underwent an MRI examination on Friday, which showed no significant structural damage. However, medical staff administered an injection to the AC joint in his right shoulder to address the issue.

“We’re going to place him on the IL,” Francona explained. “It’s not been done yet, but I think our thought was we’re trying not to put a Band-Aid on something. We want this kid to be able to pitch and pitch for a long time and not get interrupted. So hopefully a couple weeks down will do him a world of good.”

The injury comes after a difficult outing against the Chicago Cubs on Thursday, where Lowder struggled through three innings in an 8-3 defeat. He surrendered three runs on a single hit – a home run – while issuing four walks, earning the loss in the process.

This season, Lowder holds a 3-3 record with a 5.40 earned run average across eight starting assignments. Over his brief major league career spanning 14 appearances, all as a starter, he maintains a 5-5 record with a 3.52 ERA for Cincinnati.

Jackson Blake found the back of the net 5 minutes and 31 seconds into overtime Saturday night, lifting the Carolina Hurricanes to a 3-2 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers in Game 4 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series.

The 22-year-old forward received a pass from Taylor Hall and fired a wrist shot that deflected off Flyers netminder Dan Vladar’s left shoulder before crossing the goal line. With the victory, Carolina achieved their second consecutive playoff series sweep and matched a historic feat not accomplished since the 1985 Edmonton Oilers – winning their first eight postseason contests.

“We’re getting some huge performances, but everybody is doing it,” Carolina coach Rod Brind’Amour said. “That’s how we have to get it done and, go down the list, every guy has had his hands in these two series wins.”

Carolina now moves on to the Eastern Conference finals, where they will have an extended rest period while waiting to learn their opponent. The Buffalo Sabres and Montreal Canadiens remain deadlocked at one game apiece in their series, with Game 3 scheduled for Sunday in Montreal.

“There’s positives and negatives to it,” Hall said of the long layoff between rounds. “The big positive is we’re on to the third round relatively unscathed and healthy.”

Blake contributed two points in the opening frame and set up Logan Stankoven’s third-period tally. Hall recorded assists on all three Carolina goals, while Frederik Andersen turned aside 15 shots for the Hurricanes.

“We are playing well and it’s great to get the sweeps, but I think we do have another level to get to,” Stankoven said. “I’m sure if you asked any of the guys, they would agree with me.”

Philadelphia received goals from Tyson Foerster and Alex Bump, with Vladar stopping 37 shots in the losing effort. The Flyers managed just one power-play goal in 19 opportunities throughout the four-game series.

“We squeezed as much juice from this team. I can’t ask for more,” Philadelphia coach Rick Tocchet said. “We hung in there. That’s a good hockey team over there. They roll four lines, they were flying.”

Foerster opened the scoring with his first playoff goal at the 7:50 mark of the initial period, giving Philadelphia an early 1-0 advantage.

Porter Martone sent a pass up ice to Trevor Zegras, who used his speed advantage as both players entered the Carolina zone. Zegras positioned himself along the boards and delivered a pass through the slot to Foerster, who moved to the right hash marks before beating Andersen with a wrist shot.

Blake evened the score at 12:35 of the second period when his shot from above the right faceoff circle struck Flyers defenseman Jamie Drysdale in the midsection as he battled Stankoven near the crease, deflecting the puck into Philadelphia’s own net.

Carolina thought they had taken the lead when Mark Jankowski scored at 13:03 of the second period, but Philadelphia successfully challenged for goaltender interference on William Carrier, who had made contact with Oliver Bonk in the crease area.

Hall set up Stankoven during a 3-on-2 rush in the third period, with Stankoven redirecting the pass home for his postseason-leading seventh goal at 4:13, putting Carolina ahead 2-1.

Philadelphia responded quickly when Travis Konecny created a turnover behind the Carolina net and found Bump in front, who fired a one-timer from the slot area to tie the game at 5:52.

“Bumper, he makes a mistake on the second goal, he gets the tying goal,” Tocchet said. “He gets right back out there. That’s the stuff you want to see. He’s not on the bench sulking. He knew he made the mistake. He goes out there and, bang, it’s in the net. That’s the growth you like to see.”

ST. PAUL, Minn. — For the first time during their playoff run, the Colorado Avalanche switched goaltenders mid-game Saturday night, benching Scott Wedgewood early in the second period after Minnesota scored three times in their second-round NHL playoff matchup.

Minnesota dominated the contest, winning 5-1 and giving Colorado their first defeat of the current postseason.

“I thought Wedgie was playing hard. I think maybe he looked a little like too aggressive on a couple of those,” coach Jared Bednar said. “It just felt like they had all the momentum and the steam early in that game, and we needed to do something to kind of get our guys fired up and going, and I was hoping that would be part of it.”

Wedgewood recorded nine saves before being replaced by Mackenzie Blackwood, who hadn’t seen game action since April 14. During the regular season, both netminders shared duties with Wedgewood earning 43 starts and Blackwood getting 36, leading to their team receiving the William M. Jennings Trophy for best goals against average.

Despite being a career backup, Wedgewood capitalized on Blackwood’s early-season injury and finished the regular season leading all goalies with a .921 save percentage and 2.02 goals against average. He entered Saturday’s game with a perfect 6-0 playoff record, posting a 2.12 goals against average and .923 save percentage.

However, defensive lapses and undisciplined penalties by his teammates created difficult situations for Wedgewood.

Kirill Kaprizov found the net during four-on-four play after Colorado’s Parker Kelly and Minnesota’s Ryan Hartman received matching roughing penalties for fighting.

A hooking penalty against defenseman Devon Toews then gave Minnesota extended four-on-three power play time, which Quinn Hughes capitalized on with a skillful toe-drag goal from the slot area, maneuvering from the left wing into open space in the middle.

Early in the second period, with Minnesota again on the power play following Kelly’s holding penalty against Hughes, Hartman deflected an airborne puck to make the score 3-0, prompting Bednar to make the goaltending change.

Blackwood, who started every game in last year’s first-round series when Colorado fell to Dallas in seven games, stopped 12 shots in relief.

Bednar remained noncommittal about his starting goaltender for Monday’s Game 4 in Minnesota.

“We’ll have a decision to make, but there’s a decision to make every night. Some of them are easier than others,” Bednar said.

Minnesota has also juggled their goaltending situation this postseason. After rookie Jesper Wallstedt led the Wild past Dallas in the opening round, he naturally started this series. Following a wild 9-6 opening game loss, coach John Hynes turned to Filip Gustavsson for Game 2.

Gustavsson, who served as the team’s main goaltender for three seasons and made 49 regular season starts compared to Wallstedt’s 33, struggled in Tuesday’s 5-2 defeat. This led Hynes to return to Wallstedt for Game 3, a decision that paid off as the rookie made 35 saves.

“I had no doubt he was going to be back — just kind of who he is,” Hynes said. “He’s a competitor. He’s got confidence. He’s been very solid, and I just thought he got right back to his game tonight. He’s proven throughout the playoffs that the moments don’t get too big for him.”

LOS ANGELES — Oklahoma City Thunder’s remarkable roster depth has become legendary throughout the NBA, serving as the foundation for their championship ambitions.

The latest player to emerge from that deep bench and capture national attention is Ajay Mitchell, a Belgian guard who has stepped into the spotlight while filling in for injured teammate Jalen Williams during the current playoff run.

Mitchell turned in a spectacular performance Saturday night, recording career-high playoff numbers of 24 points and 10 assists without a single turnover as the Thunder dominated the Los Angeles Lakers 131-108. The rising star has become another key piece in general manager Sam Presti’s championship puzzle, demonstrating he’s prepared to help Oklahoma City’s title pursuit.

His teammates, however, weren’t caught off guard by his excellence.

“Yeah, he’s a gamer,” said MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. “Works super hard. He’s never shaken by the moment. It might be a shock to the world, but it’s no shock to us. We knew who Ajay Mitchell was the day he stepped foot in our building, and he’s just showing it to the world.”

Oklahoma City remains perfect in postseason play, now holding a commanding 3-0 advantage in their second-round matchup and appearing destined for the Western Conference finals.

Mitchell’s contributions have been crucial to that success, as he quickly adapted to an expanded role following Williams’ hamstring injury five games ago. During this series against Los Angeles, Mitchell has also compensated for the Lakers’ focused defensive pressure on Gilgeous-Alexander, who has struggled to maintain his typical dominant form.

“I know what I can do, and when I go out there, I just want to compete and help this team win and play freely,” Mitchell explained. “Every time I step on the court, I want to be a winning player and help my team. That’s really what’s been on my mind every time I play.”

Mitchell’s impact was most evident in Saturday’s second half, where he tallied 18 points and seven assists while taking control at the beginning of both quarters. He spearheaded a decisive 21-6 Thunder surge coming out of halftime that led to another dominant victory.

Against the Lakers, Mitchell is posting impressive averages of 20.7 points per contest while shooting an efficient 53.3% from the field and committing just three turnovers total. He’s also contributed 20 assists while maintaining solid defensive play.

When Williams was sidelined during Game 2 of the opening round against Phoenix, Mitchell earned a starting spot for Game 3 but struggled initially, shooting just 5 for 20. His teammates continued supporting him, and Mitchell has been exceptional ever since that rough debut.

“He’s just finding his footing,” Gilgeous-Alexander noted. “It’s his first run in the playoffs, and it’s obviously a different ballgame. He’s just getting more and more comfortable as the game goes on, as the series goes on. … I was never worried that he wasn’t going to figure it out, and he’s shown that.”

Mitchell, who grew up in Europe, completed three college seasons at UC Santa Barbara, located about an hour from downtown Los Angeles, before being selected in the second round of the 2024 draft.

During his rookie campaign, Mitchell saw limited action, averaging 6.5 points across 36 regular-season games while earning early rotation minutes before a turf toe injury sidelined him for most of the season’s second half.

He played minimal minutes during last year’s playoff run, averaging just 8 minutes per game, but Presti and coach Mark Daigneault witnessed enough potential to offer Mitchell a three-year, $9 million extension — a contract that appeared valuable even before his current playoff breakout.

While Mitchell has demonstrated his ability as both a playmaker and scorer, he gained Daigneault’s confidence through his defensive contributions. Despite recognizing Mitchell’s postseason inexperience, Daigneault hasn’t hesitated to make him central to their game plan.

“He doesn’t have a ton of basketball (playing time) in the NBA,” Daigneault observed. “The growth curve of players young in their career is steep, and he’s a guy that’s hungry, (but) he’s also humble. So he grows from all of his experiences. He’s been great in the postseason so far, but he hasn’t been wholly efficient yet. I think that’s a little bit the intensity of the games, the physicality, the length. … And yet he stays aggressive and he just keeps playing.”

The Texas Rangers delivered a dominant 6-0 shutout victory over the Chicago Cubs on Saturday in Arlington, bringing an end to Chicago’s remarkable 10-game winning streak.

Josh Jung and Justin Foscue provided the power for Texas, each connecting for solo home runs. Jung had an outstanding day at the plate, going 3-for-4 with two runs scored. Alejandro Osuna contributed two hits and drove in two runs, while Joc Pederson added two hits and one RBI for the Rangers.

On the mound, Texas starter Jack Leiter worked through 4 2/3 innings, surrendering three hits while issuing a season-high five walks and recording six strikeouts. Jalen Beeks (2-1) took over and was flawless through the next 1 1/3 innings, allowing no baserunners.

The Cubs entered the game having won 20 of their previous 23 contests before being held scoreless for the fourth time this season. Chicago struggled mightily with runners in scoring position, going 0-for-13 in those situations and stranding 11 runners on base.

Chicago’s starting pitcher Edward Cabrera (3-1) was tagged for five runs on seven hits across five innings, walking one and striking out six batters.

Braves 7, Dodgers 2

Ozzie Albies and Matt Olson each drove in two runs with singles during a big second inning as visiting Atlanta defeated Los Angeles, spoiling Blake Snell’s season debut.

Atlanta right-hander Spencer Strider (1-0) was dominant in his second start of the year, allowing just one hit across six innings while striking out eight and walking two. The victory improved the Braves to 5-3 on their current nine-game road trip. Michael Harris II added an RBI double in the fifth, and Drake Baldwin contributed a run-scoring single in the eighth.

Snell (0-1) struggled in his return from shoulder fatigue, giving up five runs (four earned) on six hits in three innings with five strikeouts and two walks. This marked his first appearance since throwing four outs in Game 7 of the World Series when Los Angeles beat Toronto. Andy Pages connected for a two-run homer in the ninth to prevent Atlanta’s shutout.

Reds 3, Astros 1

Chase Burns delivered six solid innings and Cincinnati capitalized on a crucial fifth-inning fielding mistake to defeat visiting Houston, ending a season-worst eight-game losing streak.

The victory sets up a decisive rubber match on Sunday in this three-game interleague series. Cincinnati broke through with three runs in the fifth against Houston right-hander Spencer Arrighetti (4-1), who suffered his first loss in five starts this season.

Burns (4-1) only retired the side in order once during the third inning and matched his season low with two strikeouts. However, he induced Isaac Paredes to ground into an inning-ending double play in the first and successfully worked around runners in the second, fourth, fifth, and sixth innings.

Blue Jays 14, Angels 1

Brandon Valenzuela capped a seven-run fifth inning with a three-run homer as Toronto crushed visiting Los Angeles.

Valenzuela finished with four hits while Ernie Clement recorded his second career five-hit performance, including a solo homer, as Toronto collected 20 hits to win their second straight in the three-game series.

Jesus Sanchez also went deep with a solo shot as the Blue Jays padded their statistics against infielder Adam Frazier, who was pressed into pitching duty during a four-run eighth inning for the Angels, who have now lost four of five games to Toronto this season.

Royals 5, Tigers 1

Michael Wacha scattered two hits across seven scoreless innings, Bobby Witt Jr. raced around the bases for a two-run inside-the-park homer, and Michael Massey broke the game open with a three-run blast as host Kansas City defeated struggling Detroit.

Wacha (4-2), who will turn 35 in July and carries a 2.63 ERA, allowed only a single to Kerry Carpenter and a double from Spencer Torkelson to help the Royals claim the first two games of this three-game series. Kansas City, which secured its first series victory over Detroit since August 2024, has gone 12-5 since dropping eight consecutive games.

Riley Greene drove in a run with a double in the eighth for the Tigers, who managed just four hits while tying a season high with their fifth straight defeat. Detroit had swept a three-game home series during Kansas City’s extended skid last month but now faces the possibility of that favor being returned this weekend.

Athletics 6, Orioles 2

Brent Rooker launched a three-run homer and the Athletics captured their third consecutive victory by defeating host Baltimore.

Aaron Civale (4-1) continued his strong pitching with his third straight quality start, throwing five scoreless innings despite allowing six hits and three walks while striking out six. Hogan Harris, Scott Barlow, and Joel Kuhnel each contributed one shutout inning, while Mark Leiter Jr. was responsible for Baltimore’s two runs.

Pinch hitter Colton Cowser delivered a two-run single for the Orioles, who dropped their third in a row and eighth in their last 10 games. Baltimore starter Shane Baz (1-4) lasted only 4 2/3 innings, charged with five runs on five hits with three walks and five strikeouts.

Phillies 9, Rockies 3

Alec Bohm smashed two home runs and drove in four runs in his return to the lineup as host Philadelphia evened their weekend series with a victory over Colorado.

Bohm, who had been without a homer since March 26, led off both the third and fourth innings with solo shots before adding a two-run double in the eighth. Kyle Schwarber broke a 1-1 deadlock in the third with a three-run homer, his third in consecutive nights.

Willi Castro homered and Kyle Karros doubled in two runs for the Rockies, whose starter Kyle Freeland (1-4) was hammered for seven runs (six earned) on 10 hits over five innings.

Marlins 8, Nationals 7

Jakob Marsee belted a three-run homer in the eighth inning and host Miami held on to defeat Washington.

With the game knotted at 4-4, Kyle Stowers opened the eighth with a single off Mitchell Parker (2-1) and Connor Norby drew a walk. After both runners moved up on a wild pitch, Marsee delivered his decisive blast. Xavier Edwards also homered, Andrew Nardi (3-2) threw a perfect inning, and John King recorded his first save.

Luis Garcia Jr. collected three hits and two RBIs, James Wood homered and doubled, and CJ Abrams drove in two runs for the Nationals, who had their three-game winning streak snapped.

White Sox 6, Mariners 1

Miguel Vargas homered twice and Colson Montgomery also connected to power Chicago past visiting Seattle.

White Sox starter Anthony Kay (2-1) allowed three hits, all singles, and one run across five innings. Relievers Grant Taylor, Bryan Hudson, and Tyler Schweitzer combined for four shutout innings to complete a four-hitter that ended Chicago’s three-game skid.

Mariners starter Luis Castillo dropped to 0-4 after giving up five hits and four runs in four innings. He surrendered two homers for the second time in three outings. Seattle’s lone run came on a Rob Refsnyder sacrifice fly.

Twins 2, Guardians 1 (11 innings)

Byron Buxton’s RBI double in the 11th inning delivered Minnesota a victory over host Cleveland in a game where each team managed only two hits.

Buxton accounted for both of the Twins’ hits, leading off the game with his 13th homer to snap Minnesota’s three-game losing streak. Cleveland’s only run came on consecutive fourth-inning singles, with Kyle Manzardo providing the RBI.

Cleveland’s Tanner Bibee allowed one run on one hit in six innings. Minnesota’s Joe Ryan surrendered one run and two hits across six innings.

Brewers 4, Yankees 3 (10 innings)

William Contreras delivered a walk-off sacrifice fly with the bases loaded in the 10th inning to give Milwaukee a comeback victory over visiting New York.

The Yankees took a 3-2 lead in the top of the 10th before Fernando Cruz (3-1) entered for the bottom half. Automatic runner Garrett Mitchell reached third on a wild pitch and Luis Rengifo walked. After pinch hitter Gary Sanchez flew out, Jackson Chourio tied the game at 3-3 with an RBI infield single.

Tim Hill came in but threw wildly to third on Brice Turang’s grounder back to the mound, loading the bases. Contreras then lifted a fly ball deep enough to right field to score Rengifo and secure a series victory for the Brewers. Aaron Ashby (7-0) worked the final two innings for his major league-leading seventh win.

Pirates 13, Giants 3

Braxton Ashcraft pitched seven innings of one-run ball, catcher Joey Bart tied his career high with four hits, and Pittsburgh used a 20-hit offensive explosion to rout host San Francisco.

Nick Gonzales also collected four hits and Brandon Lowe drove in four runs for the Pirates, who have won six of their last eight contests. Oneil Cruz scored three times and had three hits, while Lowe and Spencer Horwitz each scored twice. Ashcraft (2-2) held the Giants to six hits, striking out six without issuing a walk.

Bryce Eldridge hit his first career home run to put San Francisco on the scoreboard in the fifth. Heliot Ramos had two singles and scored once for the Giants, who won Friday’s series opener 5-2. San Francisco has dropped nine of its last 11 games.

Padres 4, Cardinals 2

Ty France and Manny Machado went deep, while Fernando Tatis Jr. provided a go-ahead hit during a three-run fifth inning that carried host San Diego over St. Louis.

Starter Randy Vasquez (4-1) gave up six hits across five innings while allowing just one run. The right-hander issued no walks and struck out six before San Diego’s high-leverage relievers finished the job. Mason Miller earned his 12th save in 12 opportunities.

Right-hander Dustin May (3-4) pitched effectively for the Cardinals except for the fifth inning. He allowed three hits and three runs (two earned) over six innings with two walks and seven strikeouts.

Diamondbacks 2, Mets 1

Ildemaro Vargas delivered a two-run single, Merrill Kelly turned in his sharpest start of the season, and Arizona defeated New York to split the three-game series in Phoenix.

Kelly (2-3) surrendered one run on three hits across seven innings in his fifth start since returning from an early-season back injury. Vargas’ bases-loaded single off Clay Holmes (4-3) in the third came after two-out singles by Corbin Carroll and Geraldo Perdomo and a walk to Adrian Del Castillo, providing Kelly with all the run support he needed.

The Mets (15-24) sit just one-half game ahead of the Los Angeles Angels (15-25) for the worst record in the majors. They had won four of five games entering this contest. New York managed three hits, none after Tyrone Taylor’s two-out double in the fifth.

San Francisco Giants ace pitcher Logan Webb has been sidelined with right knee bursitis, ending an impressive streak of not missing a single start in five years.

The Giants placed Webb on the injured list Saturday, with the move backdated to Wednesday. His last outing came Tuesday when he struggled against the San Diego Padres, giving up six earned runs and seven hits over four innings before leaving with knee discomfort in a 10-5 defeat.

To fill the roster spot, San Francisco brought up right-handed pitcher Trevor McDonald from their Triple-A affiliate in Sacramento.

The 29-year-old Webb, who has been selected as an All-Star in each of the past two seasons, had started 157 consecutive games for the Giants dating back to his last injured list stint in July 2021.

“I haven’t missed a start in a long time, so it’s been eating at me a little bit,” Webb told reporters Saturday prior to the Giants’ matchup with the Pittsburgh Pirates. “But I think it’s best for me, best for the team, best for the longevity of my career. That sort of thing. I’ve got a lot of good people in my corner that talked me into it, pretty much. But I’m glad I did.”

According to Webb, the knee problem has been ongoing and worsened during an April 30 contest against the Philadelphia Phillies when he had to cover first base on a play.

Giants skipper Tony Vitello acknowledged that Webb required some persuasion to accept the time off for his knee to recover.

“It’s a little bit more of a, I don’t want to say day-to-day thing, but a little bit more of a, give it a few days and then see where he’s at,” Vitello explained Saturday. “Better to keep the long run in mind.”

Through eight starts this season, Webb holds a 2-4 record with a 5.06 earned run average, having walked 15 batters while striking out 42 across 48 innings of work.

Over his career, Webb has compiled a 72-57 record with a 3.45 ERA, issuing 265 walks and recording 1,036 strikeouts across 1,110 1/3 innings in 188 regular-season appearances (185 as a starter). He earned the Gold Glove award for National League pitchers last year.

The 25-year-old McDonald brings a strong performance from his recent appearance, posting a 1-0 record this season with a 1.29 ERA and eight strikeouts in seven innings during a 3-2 victory over the Padres on Monday. The rookie has appeared in five games (three starts) since 2024 and carries a 2-0 record with three walks and 23 strikeouts over 25 total innings.

Additionally, the Giants promoted catcher Logan Porter from Sacramento after trading Gold Glove-winning backstop Patrick Bailey to the Cleveland Guardians earlier in the day.

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has committed to a two-year extension with the franchise after spending over a decade at the helm, multiple media outlets including ESPN and The Athletic have confirmed.

The 60-year-old coach will continue to hold the distinction of being the NBA’s top-earning coach annually, building on his previous $17.5 million salary from this past season. Kerr’s previous contract had reached its conclusion during the recent offseason.

Over the past two weeks, Kerr engaged in extensive discussions with Warriors owner Joe Lacob and general manager Mike Dunleavy to hash out the terms of his new deal. According to ESPN’s reporting, financial considerations took a backseat to making the optimal basketball decision during these negotiations.

Throughout his tenure that began in the 2014-15 campaign, Kerr has led Golden State to four championship victories in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022. His coaching record includes 604 wins against 353 losses during regular season play (.631 winning percentage) and a 104-48 mark in postseason competition (.684 winning percentage).

Despite this success, the Warriors failed to secure a playoff berth this year after falling to the Phoenix Suns in a play-in tournament matchup. This marks the second time in three years that the franchise has been excluded from the playoff picture.

The team also concluded the season with a 37-45 record, representing just the second time under Kerr’s leadership that Golden State finished with a losing record.

Following the team’s 111-96 defeat to Phoenix on April 17, Kerr acknowledged the possibility that it could have been his final game as the Warriors’ coach.

“I still love coaching, but I get it,” Kerr told reporters. “These jobs all have an expiration date. There is a run that happens, and when the run ends, sometimes it’s time for new blood and new ideas.”

Kerr had previously indicated that if he continued coaching for another season, it would exclusively be alongside superstar point guard Stephen Curry and the Warriors organization.

“That’s part of the equation,” he said. “I don’t want to walk away from Steph. I’m definitely not going and coaching somewhere else next year in the NBA. I would never walk away from Steph. But all this stuff has to be aligned and right. Those are all discussions that will be had.”

Prior to leading the Warriors to their first championship in four decades during 2015, Kerr captured five NBA titles as a player with the Chicago Bulls from 1996-98 and the San Antonio Spurs in 1999 and 2003.

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr will continue leading the franchise after reaching agreement on a two-year contract extension, according to a source familiar with the negotiations.

A person with knowledge of the talks confirmed to The Associated Press that while Kerr has agreed to the deal in principle, he has not yet put pen to paper on the contract. The source requested anonymity since the agreement still needs to be completed.

The contract extension comes after a disappointing season that saw Golden State fail to reach the playoffs for the second time in three years. The Warriors finished with the 10th seed in the Western Conference and were eliminated by Phoenix in the play-in tournament.

During his dozen years at the helm, Kerr has guided the Warriors to four NBA titles and six consecutive Finals appearances alongside stars Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. Following the playoff loss in Phoenix, Kerr embraced both players, acknowledging afterward that he wasn’t certain if they would continue working together.

This past season proved challenging as the Warriors posted a 37-45 record while battling multiple injuries. The team lost Jimmy Butler for the remainder of the season in January due to a right knee injury, while Curry missed 27 games with his own knee problems.

ESPN was first to report news of Kerr’s contract extension.

The 60-year-old coach took over the Warriors in 2014-15 and immediately delivered the franchise’s first championship in four decades. The following season began with Kerr sidelined as assistant coach Luke Walton guided the team to a historic 24-0 start. Kerr missed the first 43 games while recovering from severe complications related to two back surgeries, and the Warriors went on to win a record 73 games. He later took additional time away in 2017, with Mike Brown stepping in while Kerr had a procedure to address a spinal fluid leak.

Green had speculated on his podcast after the season concluded that Kerr might not return to the team.

Beyond basketball, Kerr has consistently used his position to advocate on issues including gun violence and social justice. His father, Malcolm, who served as president of the American University of Beirut, was killed in Beirut when Kerr was an 18-year-old college freshman at the University of Arizona.

In March 2018, Kerr participated in the Oakland March for Our Lives event. That same month, he joined Democratic Representatives Ro Khanna and Mike Thompson — who chaired the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force at the time — along with local students at a Newark Memorial High School town hall focused on school gun violence, praising young activists across the nation.

Kerr has expressed that balancing his roles as both a basketball coach and public advocate comes naturally given current events.

“I think in some ways the balance is presented to us, given what’s happening around the country,” Kerr said. “I know that when I played, players and coaches were never — maybe not never — rarely asked about politics and voting.”

Seattle Mariners pitcher Bryce Miller is set to return from the injured list and take the mound Wednesday when his team faces the Houston Astros, according to manager Dan Wilson’s announcement to media on Saturday.

The right-handed pitcher has been sidelined since the beginning of the season due to an oblique injury he suffered during spring training.

At 27 years old, Miller had an outstanding 2024 season, recording a 2.94 earned run average, a 0.976 WHIP, and striking out 171 batters over 31 games started and 180 1/3 innings pitched.

His performance took a downturn during his injury-plagued 2025 season, though, as he managed only a 5.68 ERA, 1.406 WHIP, and 74 strikeouts across 18 starts covering 90 1/3 innings before being sidelined for more than two months with elbow problems.

Miller’s comeback will strengthen Seattle’s pitching staff, which currently holds the 12th-best team ERA in Major League Baseball at 4.00. Wilson informed reporters that the team plans to operate with six starting pitchers, at least initially, following Miller’s activation.

A former New York Jets linebacker is set to compete for a coveted UFC contract through Dana White’s Contender Series, according to multiple sports media outlets.

Anthony Wint, who transitioned from professional football to mixed martial arts, will step into the octagon seeking his shot at the premier fighting organization. The 30-year-old athlete originally played collegiate football at Florida International University, earning All-Conference USA honors three times during his college career.

Following his college success, Wint joined the Jets as an undrafted free agent in 2018. During his brief NFL stint, he saw action in two games, registering one tackle and forcing a fumble before his football career ended.

The heavyweight fighter made his transition to combat sports in 2023 and has compiled an impressive undefeated record of 6-0. His victories include four knockouts and one submission, demonstrating his versatility in the cage.

Standing 6 feet tall and weighing 224 pounds, Wint is scheduled to face Matt Adams, who holds a 6-2 record, on August 11. The bout will take place at the Meta Apex venue in Las Vegas as part of the Contender Series program.

A UCLA senior made softball history this weekend by shattering a three-decade-old NCAA record with a powerful swing that sent the ball soaring into the record books.

Megan Grant launched her 38th home run of the 2026 season during Saturday’s matchup with Nebraska, surpassing the previous NCAA Division I softball record of 37 home runs that Arizona’s Laura Espinoza established back in 1995.

The remarkable achievement came in the third inning when Grant connected on a deep drive to left-center field. What makes the feat even more impressive is that Grant accomplished this milestone in just 55 games, compared to the 72 games it took Espinoza to set the original mark.

Mike Candrea, who served as Espinoza’s coach at Arizona, offered his congratulations to Grant. “Records are made to be broken,” Candrea shared with The Athletic. “It’s a pretty phenomenal record to be able to break, so tip my hat off.”

Despite Grant’s historic moment, Nebraska claimed victory in Saturday’s contest with a 7-2 win to secure the Big Ten championship.

Grant’s record-breaking performance capped off an incredible weekend for the Bruins’ offense. During Friday’s semifinal victory over Wisconsin in the Big Ten tournament, UCLA’s team reached 181 home runs for the season, breaking the previous team record of 161 that had been set in 2021. Grant’s Saturday blast pushed that total to 182.

The multi-sport star, who also contributed to UCLA’s 2026 NCAA basketball championship, reflected on her achievement with reporters. “When I first came into college, I wanted to put myself in the books as one of the best, and I didn’t really know how to at the time, but throughout my career, just more and more has gone on, and to be able to do that, it’s just, it’s surreal,” Grant explained. “I am just so grateful for the opportunity I was blessed with, and just to follow the people that were before me. It’s just honor.”

Grant’s path to the record included matching UCLA’s previous single-season mark during an April 18 doubleheader against Cal, when she tied Stacey Nuveman’s school record with her 31st homer. She then broke Nuveman’s UCLA record on April 24 in a game against Washington.

Both Grant and Nuveman now stand as the only Bruins players to reach 80 career home runs. While Nuveman, who finished her career in 2002, holds the program’s all-time record with 90, Grant currently sits at 85 career homers.

Grant has also made history alongside senior teammate Jordan Woolery, who has hit 33 home runs this season. The duo became the first teammates in NCAA softball history to each hit 30 or more home runs in the same season.

The Bruins, who finished the regular season with a 47-8 record, will learn their postseason placement during Sunday afternoon’s NCAA Division I Selection Show. UCLA is pursuing its first Women’s College World Series championship since 2019, which would be the program’s 13th NCAA title overall.

Following the college season, Grant plans to continue her softball career alongside teammates Woolery and Taylor Tinsley in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League this summer.

Hall of Fame baseball manager Bobby Cox, who transformed the Atlanta Braves into a dynasty during the 1990s and led them to their 1995 World Series championship, passed away Saturday at age 84 in Marietta, Georgia, the team announced.

Cox had been battling health issues since suffering a stroke in 2019. The legendary skipper guided the Braves through their most successful era, turning around a franchise that had been struggling in last place when he took control in June 1990.

Just one year later, Cox orchestrated one of baseball’s most remarkable turnarounds, leading Atlanta from worst to first and into the 1991 World Series, where they fell to Minnesota in a thrilling seven-game series. That dramatic season launched an unprecedented run of 14 straight division championships.

During his 25-year tenure with the Braves, Cox became synonymous with the franchise’s success before stepping down following the 2010 season. His contributions to the game were recognized in 2014 when he was enshrined in the Baseball Hall of Fame.

In other sports news, the Cleveland Cavaliers kept their playoff hopes alive with a 116-109 victory over Detroit in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series. James Harden delivered when it mattered most, nailing three crucial shots in the final two minutes, while Donovan Mitchell led all scorers with 35 points. The win cuts Detroit’s series advantage to 2-1, with Game 4 scheduled for Monday night in Cleveland.

Harden’s performance was a significant bounce-back after struggling in the previous two games, finishing with 19 points alongside Jarrett Allen’s 18. Mitchell reached a career milestone, becoming the fastest player to score 2,000 postseason points, achieving the feat in just 73 games. Detroit’s Cade Cunningham recorded his second career playoff triple-double with 27 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, though he was hurt by eight turnovers.

The WNBA season kicked off with much fanfare as the highly anticipated matchup between Caitlin Clark’s Indiana Fever and Paige Bueckers’ Dallas Wings drew a sold-out crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. After a 10-month wait to play at home, Clark and the Fever fell just short in a thrilling 107-104 loss to Dallas.

Arike Ogunbowale paced the Wings with 22 points, while Bueckers contributed 20 in the victory. Clark had a chance to force overtime with a deep three-pointer but came up short, finishing with 20 points, seven assists, five rebounds, and five turnovers. Kelsey Mitchell topped Indiana’s scoring with 30 points, and Aliyah Boston added 23.

In Major League Baseball transactions, the San Francisco Giants have shipped struggling catcher Patrick Bailey to the Cleveland Guardians in exchange for minor league pitcher Matt Wilkinson and the 29th selection in the 2026 draft. Despite winning two Gold Glove awards for his defensive prowess, Bailey’s offensive struggles prompted the move, as he was hitting just .146 with one home run and five RBIs.

The New York Giants began their rookie minicamp under new head coach John Harbaugh, who described the weekend sessions as a rehearsal rather than a competition. Top draft selections Arvell Reese and Francis “Sisi” Mauigoa participated in Saturday’s activities, with Harbaugh emphasizing preparation for upcoming workouts when veterans return.

UCLA’s Megan Grant made college softball history by launching her 38th home run of the season, breaking the Division I single-season record during the Big Ten Championship Game against Nebraska. The senior slugger connected on an 0-2 pitch from Jordy Frahm, sending it deep to left-center for a solo shot that gave UCLA a 2-0 lead in the third inning, though Nebraska ultimately won the conference title 7-2.

The Phoenix Mercury delivered a statement victory in their WNBA season opener, crushing the defending champion Las Vegas Aces 99-66 and spoiling their ring ceremony. Alyssa Thomas led the way with 20 points as Phoenix gained revenge for being swept by Las Vegas in last year’s finals. The 33-point margin represented the Mercury’s largest victory since August and marked the Aces’ most lopsided defeat since early last season.

Looking ahead to Sunday’s NBA draft lottery in Chicago, several teams are positioned to benefit from strategic rebuilding efforts. Washington is guaranteed a top-five selection, while Brooklyn and Utah could be rewarded for enduring historically poor seasons. The lottery will be determined by four ping-pong balls drawn in a secure room, with the resulting combination determining which team earns the coveted first overall pick.

Finally, Shane van Gisbergen celebrated his 37th birthday by capturing the pole position for Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Watkins Glen. The New Zealand driver, who has dominated road course racing with five wins in his last six attempts on road and street circuits, will start ahead of Michael McDowell and Austin Cindric when the green flag drops.

The New York Knicks received encouraging news regarding forward OG Anunoby’s availability for Sunday’s pivotal Game 4 matchup with the Philadelphia 76ers, as the team upgraded his status from doubtful to questionable due to his hamstring injury.

The 28-year-old forward has been a cornerstone of New York’s impressive playoff run, contributing 21.4 points per game along with 7.5 rebounds, 1.9 steals and 1.1 blocks while connecting on an outstanding 53.8 percent of his three-point attempts.

Anunoby delivered a strong performance in Game 2 against Philadelphia, recording 24 points and four steals before sustaining a strain to his right hamstring that sidelined him for the following contest.

Despite missing their key contributor in Game 3, the Knicks maintained their momentum with a commanding 108-94 victory over the Sixers, powered by Jalen Brunson’s exceptional 33-point, nine-assist showing.

New York now holds a commanding 3-0 advantage in the series and has the opportunity to complete a sweep when they travel to Philadelphia on Sunday.

Houston has acquired outfielder Rhylan Thomas through waivers after he was released by the Seattle Mariners, the Astros announced.

To make room on the roster, Houston moved right-handed pitcher Hunter Bown from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day IL.

The 26-year-old Thomas began his professional career when the New York Mets selected him in the 11th round of the 2022 MLB Draft. Seattle acquired him in 2024 through a trade that sent veteran right-handed pitcher Ryne Stanek to New York.

Thomas made his major league debut this season with Seattle, playing in three games where he collected one hit in eight at-bats, including a double, and drove in two runs while drawing one walk.

At the Triple-A level this year with Tacoma, Thomas has compiled a .260 batting average with a .313 on-base percentage and .328 slugging percentage over 31 games. During that stint, he has hit two home runs, driven in nine runs, and stolen six bases.

Iran’s football federation announced Saturday that the nation will “definitely” compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while demanding that host countries address Tehran’s concerns about player travel and treatment.

Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran president Mehdi Taj stated that “All players and technical staff, especially those who served their military service in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, should be granted visas without problems,” according to Iranian media reports.

The request comes as Iran maintains a delicate ceasefire with the United States following military conflicts that began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February, and while Iranian citizens face travel restrictions implemented during the Trump presidency.

Speaking to the state-run IRNA news agency on Friday, Taj outlined conditions for Iran’s participation, including visa guarantees, security assurances, and proper treatment of Iranian personnel. He emphasized that the Islamic Republic would compete “without retreating from our beliefs, culture and convictions.”

The visa issue gained prominence after Canadian officials blocked Taj’s entry last month prior to a FIFA Congress, allegedly due to his connections to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, which both the United States and Canada classify as a terrorist organization.

Taj has consistently sought FIFA’s commitment to respectful treatment of Iranian officials, athletes, and national symbols throughout the tournament.

The visa concerns could impact key player Mehdi Taremi, Iran’s team captain and striker, who fulfilled his required military duty with the Guard. Iran’s conscription system randomly assigns service members to various branches including police, army, or the Revolutionary Guard.

Iran has been placed in Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt, with their opening match scheduled against New Zealand in Inglewood, near Los Angeles.

The Iranian national team has secured World Cup berths in four straight tournaments and seven total appearances, though they have never progressed beyond group play. Currently holding the 21st world ranking, Iran suffered only one defeat during Asian qualification rounds.

Toronto FC made history Saturday night, welcoming their biggest crowd ever to BMO Field as nearly 45,000 soccer fans came out to witness Lionel Messi and Inter Miami in action. The match doubled as a crucial preparation exercise for Toronto’s upcoming role as a World Cup host city.

The stadium was packed with supporters wearing Miami’s distinctive pink and black jerseys alongside Argentina’s traditional blue and white colors, all eager to see the legendary eight-time Ballon d’Or champion in person. Messi delivered for the crowd, finding the net in Inter Miami’s 4-2 victory over Toronto FC.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow acknowledged the weekend’s significance on Friday, stating: “This weekend will serve as a real life test run with a number of high attendance sporting events in town.” The mayor was also referencing concurrent Toronto Blue Jays games and the Sporting Life 10K race happening in the city.

The attendance figure of 44,828 provided Toronto officials with valuable insights into crowd management, from stadium entry and exit procedures to public transportation coordination. Security personnel faced their own challenges when multiple fans attempted to storm the field in the final minutes, hoping to get close to the 38-year-old Argentine superstar.

Sharon Bollenbach, who leads the World Cup 2026 Toronto Secretariat, emphasized the event’s importance in a Reuters statement: “This weekend’s match is a valuable opportunity for city divisions, emergency services, transit agencies, venue operators and other partners to work together in a live event setting, to test and refine as required before the matches begin.”

City officials anticipate more than 300,000 visitors will descend on Toronto during the World Cup tournament. Saturday’s game marked Toronto FC’s last home appearance before the June 11-July 19 competition begins.

BMO Field underwent significant renovations worth $158 million, including the installation of 17,000 temporary seats positioned behind both goals to satisfy World Cup capacity requirements. These additional seats made their debut during Saturday’s match.

The towering temporary structures sparked safety concerns on social media back in March, with one user posting on X: “Just saw a photo of BMO’s temporary seating. Respectfully, you couldn’t pay me to climb, stand or sit on that.”

However, fans seemed comfortable with the new seating arrangements on Saturday. Many supporters in the uppermost sections chose to stand with their backs to the railings, taking in panoramic views of Lake Ontario after the final whistle.

Metrolinx, the agency operating the city’s GO train network, announced Wednesday it would treat the match as a “readiness test,” implementing increased service frequency to the station serving BMO Field along with enhanced safety protocols and crowd control measures.

The transportation authority expects roughly 500,000 additional passengers to use their services during the World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico.

Canada’s World Cup journey begins June 12 when they face Bosnia and Herzegovina at BMO Stadium. The Canadian squad will also take on 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar and Switzerland as part of Group B competition.

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh is taking a measured approach as he settles into his new role, with his first meaningful game still more than four months away.

Saturday’s concluding rookie minicamp session intentionally avoided physical contact. Harbaugh emphasized to high draft selections Arvell Reese and Francis “Sisi” Mauigoa, along with other participants, that the weekend served as preparation for upcoming offseason workouts rather than a competitive evaluation.

“This is not a camp where you’re trying to go out there and make plays,” Harbaugh explained. “There really are no plays to be made. It’s a rehearsal type of camp. … We’re going to kind of do the dance, so to speak, of football. We’re not actually competing against one another.”

The real competition will emerge during organized team activities, mandatory minicamp, and training camp, which kicks off in late July at The Greenbrier in West Virginia. Following an 18-year tenure with Baltimore, Harbaugh is implementing a methodical strategy for his fresh opportunity, with genuine evaluations still months ahead.

“The true competition comes in the preseason games,” Harbaugh noted. “That’s when you can say it’s the most competitive. I’d say it’s kind of a ramp up to that.”

Harbaugh’s credentials include a Super Bowl victory and 12 playoff appearances with Baltimore, plus six additional postseason trips as a Philadelphia assistant coach.

During his time with Philadelphia, Harbaugh coached defensive back Rod Hood. Now, the Giants selected Rod’s nephew Colton Hood, a Tennessee cornerback, in the second round. The rookie minicamp marked Colton Hood’s first chance to work under Harbaugh’s guidance.

“My uncle told me what to expect, and it was everything that I expected,” Hood commented after making Saturday’s standout play — an interception where he stripped the ball from tryout running back Miles Davis. “Just hard-nosed coach, old-school, but he loves his players. He wants them to be great, so it’s that tough love kind of thing.”

Given Harbaugh’s special teams expertise, the upcoming months will feature an intriguing kicking battle. The Giants signed Michigan’s Dominic Zvada as an undrafted free agent to challenge returning kicker Ben Sauls and newly acquired veteran Jason Sanders.

“We’ll kick field goals, I think, every other practice,” Harbaugh said. “We may be kicking them every practice because we’ve got three guys to kick, and we’ll just see how it shakes out.”

Zvada connected on 95.5% of his field goal attempts in 2024, leading the nation, but dropped to 68% the following season. Standing 6-foot-3, Zvada is “big for a kicker,” according to Harbaugh, who praised his leg strength.

“More than anything just the consistency,” Harbaugh said. “He does a nice job of getting downfield through the kick, and because of that he tends to kick a straight ball consistently. If you do that, you probably have a chance.”

Reese’s availability at the fifth overall pick caught some by surprise, and the organization is now working to optimize the Ohio State standout’s potential, as assistant general manager Brandon Brown described.

The team envisions Reese as a weak-side linebacker rather than an edge rusher like other franchises might, and his rookie minicamp debut left a positive impression.

“Picks things up really quick,” Harbaugh observed. “Very serious-minded, very diligent about the assignments. I don’t think he got one assignment wrong throughout the two days, which is great to see.”

Despite receiver Odell Beckham Jr.’s workout with New York last month, no contract has emerged and may not materialize. Harbaugh revealed he spoke with Beckham multiple times recently while the 33-year-old trains in Arizona, though no deal appears close.

“It’s got to be right for both parties,” Harbaugh explained. “I’m pretty sure that he can make a team in the National Football League right now, but can he make a difference? It’s something he wants to do. Is his body going to hold up in the way he wants it to? And all those things are questions that need to get answered for anybody at that age.”

Beckham hasn’t appeared in an NFL contest since December 8, 2024.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — At Tennessee’s storied Iroquois Steeplechase, while jockeys and horse owners vie for substantial prize money, the crowd’s beloved highlight remains the traditional foxhound parade that has charmed audiences for 85 years.

On Saturday, more than 20 foxhounds — specially bred to accompany horses and hunters — paraded across the grass course to launch race day festivities as thousands of fans cheered and captured the moment on camera.

The huntsman and his assistants, known as whippers-in, face the challenging job of guiding the pack along the proper route, particularly when the dogs become distracted by the massive crowd of spectators and their tempting tailgate spreads in the infield area.

Charles Montgomery, who serves as master and huntsman for the Mells Foxhounds — the hunting organization that provides dogs for the steeplechase — recalled one particularly social hound who abandoned her route for fan interaction. “She had the best time. She loved going into the beer tents,” Montgomery explained.

The dog enjoyed the experience so thoroughly that she made a beeline for the beer tent again the following year, resulting in her permanent exclusion from future races, Montgomery noted.

The Iroquois Steeplechase ranks among America’s top steeplechase competitions, offering $730,000 in total prize money on a grass course featuring hurdles. The venue opened in 1941 through a Works Progress Administration initiative, with the Nashville event established by members of the Hillsboro Hounds, a local fox hunting organization.

According to Stephen Heard, an Iroquois Steeplechase trustee and Mells Foxhounds member, steeplechase racing and fox hunting share deep historical connections. This tradition originated in the British Isles, where horses raced between church steeples and learned to clear obstacles like fences during hunting expeditions with dogs.

“Many of the horses that we use fox hunting are ex-steeplechase horses,” Heard noted.

With 25,000 attendees eating and drinking throughout tents and grandstands, the dogs require adjustment time to handle the overwhelming sounds and aromas.

“I took one dog last year and he heard the speakers and he said, ‘This is not for me,’” Charles Montgomery recalled.

“It’s high pressure,” explained Boo Montgomery, one of the whippers-in. She remembered when a child extended a fried chicken leg through the railings, creating irresistible temptation. “You couldn’t fault Brightly for stopping and having a snack,” she said, referring to one of the foxhounds.

Charles Montgomery typically brings experienced hunting dogs to mentor younger hounds along the course. On race morning, the eager dogs leaped from their trailer, ready to explore the grass, chew sticks, and roll in clover.

The hounds sport GPS-enabled collars during both hunting activities and racetrack appearances. This technology proved valuable last year when a frightened dog fled into the surrounding wooded parkland.

Despite the unfamiliar racetrack environment, the hounds appear to relish their role in launching the horse races, Boo Montgomery observed.

“It’s a great exposure for hunting to get to see these hounds and the horses,” Boo Montgomery said. “It’s nice to be able to show off.”

Former Major League Baseball star and Hall of Famer Wade Boggs has received the all-clear from doctors after his battle with prostate cancer.

The 67-year-old baseball legend shared the positive update following his participation in Friday evening’s celebration at Fenway Park, marking 125 years since the Red Sox played their first home game. Boggs joined fellow Red Sox legends David Ortiz, Pedro Martinez, Jim Rice, Carlton Fisk, and Carl Yastrzemski in throwing ceremonial first pitches.

“I’m a cancer survivor now. Prostate cancer is null and void. Thank God,” Boggs stated on Friday, referencing his latest medical examination.

The former third baseman received his prostate cancer diagnosis in September 2024 and completed radiation therapy and hormone treatments in Florida. On November 13, 2024, he posted on social media platform X to announce the completion of his treatment regimen.

“Praise God! Had my last treatment this morning, now it’s in the hands of God 🙏,” Boggs wrote in his November post. “Can’t thank my family, friends and my fans for your continued support throughout this difficult time. Also my wonderful team at Tampa General Hospital Cancer Institute 🙏🙏🙏.”

Boggs emphasized the importance of early detection in his successful treatment and urged men to prioritize regular health screenings.

“It’s a process that you have to go through, and I encourage all young men to get your PSA tests,” Boggs explained Friday. “Please go out there. Because mine, it wasn’t even on the radar. It was a 3.3, and they don’t even start talking about it until it gets to four. But I had the bad one, and we caught it early. … I had my checkup a month ago, and I’m completely cancer-free.”

During his 18-season MLB career, Boggs played for the Boston Red Sox from 1982 to 1992, the New York Yankees from 1993 to 1997, and finished with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays from 1998 to 1999. Both the Red Sox and Rays organizations have retired his jersey number in his honor.

In 2005, Boggs earned first-ballot induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame, receiving recognition on 91.9% of submitted ballots.

His impressive career achievements include five American League batting titles, 12 All-Star Game selections, two Gold Glove Awards, and eight Silver Slugger Awards. He captured a World Series championship with the Yankees in 1996. Boggs concluded his playing days with a .328 batting average and membership in the exclusive 3,000-hit club, tallying 3,010 hits along with 1,513 runs scored, 118 home runs, and 1,014 RBIs.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have acquired left-handed pitcher Charlie Barnes through the waiver claim process from the Chicago Cubs, while simultaneously moving utility player Tommy Edman to the 60-day injured list to create space on their 40-man roster.

The 30-year-old Barnes had been placed on waivers by Chicago earlier this week. His only major league outing this season came on April 13 against Philadelphia, where he allowed four runs (three earned) across three innings. At the Triple-A level with Iowa, Barnes posted a 3-1 record and 3.04 ERA through seven games, including four starts.

Throughout his major league career, Barnes holds a 0-3 record with a 6.15 ERA across 10 appearances, eight of which were starts. His last MLB action came in 2021 with Minnesota, the team that selected him in the fourth round of the 2017 draft.

For the past four seasons, Barnes played professionally in South Korea with the Lotte team, compiling a 35-32 record and 3.58 ERA over 94 starts.

The 31-year-old Edman had right ankle surgery in November, just after helping the Dodgers capture the World Series championship. He is expected to be cleared for return from the injured list before the end of this month.

Over seven major league seasons split between St. Louis and Los Angeles, Edman has maintained a .258 batting average with 72 homers and 291 RBIs across 730 games.

Baseball Hall of Fame manager Bobby Cox, who became synonymous with the Atlanta Braves during their dominant run in the 1990s and 2000s, passed away at 84 years old, the organization confirmed Saturday.

Throughout his managerial career with the Braves and Toronto Blue Jays, Cox amassed 2,504 wins, placing him fourth all-time in major league history. His remarkable achievements include leading teams to 15 division championships, five National League pennants, and the Braves’ 1995 World Series title.

“We are overcome with emotion on the passing of Bobby Cox, our treasured skipper. Bobby was the best manager to ever wear a Braves uniform,” the Braves organization stated. “His Braves managerial legacy will never be matched.”

Cox entered the world on May 21, 1941, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, before relocating to Central California at age three. The Los Angeles Dodgers signed him as an infielder straight from Selma High School in 1959, with scout Red Adams making the discovery.

Following nearly ten years in the minor league systems of the Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, and Braves, Cox’s playing career remained modest. He spent his inaugural major league season in 1968 with the New York Yankees, playing alongside Mickey Mantle during the legend’s final year. Cox recorded nine home runs and posted a .619 OPS across 220 games over two seasons with New York.

Yankees general manager Lee MacPhail subsequently presented Cox with a managerial opportunity at their Class A affiliate in Fort Lauderdale, where he spent six seasons before joining Billy Martin’s major league coaching staff as first-base coach for the 1977 World Series champions.

In the following season, former Braves owner Ted Turner provided Cox his initial big league managing opportunity, though he struggled with a 266-323-1 record during the franchise’s rebuilding phase. Turner dismissed Cox in 1981, later remarking about his replacement: “It would be Bobby Cox — if I hadn’t just fired him. We need someone like him around here.”

Cox continued his managerial journey with the Toronto Blue Jays for four seasons, leading them to their inaugural division championship in 1985.

Despite the earlier dismissal, Turner praised Cox as a “terrific manager and a terrific person,” which explained his decision to bring Cox back to the Braves organization in 1986 as general manager. Despite lacking front-office experience, Cox spent four years developing, acquiring, and selecting future stars including Tom Glavine, John Smoltz, Steve Avery, and Chipper Jones, whom he selected first overall in the 1990 MLB Draft.

Cox returned to managing duties during the 1990 season and took full control the following year as the Braves launched their historic streak of 14 straight division titles. His teams captured five National League pennants during the decade, culminating with Atlanta’s first major professional sports championship in 1995.

After stepping down as manager following the 2010 season when the Braves earned a wild-card berth, Cox remained with Atlanta’s front office as a senior advisor.

Across 29 seasons of managing, Cox finished with a 2,504-2001 record and a .566 winning percentage, earning Manager of the Year recognition four times.

“Bobby was a favorite among all in the baseball community, especially those who played for him. His wealth of knowledge on player development and the intricacies of managing the game were rewarded with the sport’s ultimate prize in 2014 — enshrinement into the Baseball Hall of Fame,” the Braves noted.

While earning widespread respect throughout baseball, Cox also established the record for most ejections in league history with 158 during regular season play and three more in postseason games, many featuring lengthy and animated arguments.

“And while Bobby’s passion for the game was unparalleled, his love of baseball was exceeded only by his love for his family,” the Braves added. “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we send our sincerest condolences to his beloved wife, Pam, and their loving children and grandchildren.”

ATLANTA — Bobby Cox, the legendary Atlanta Braves skipper who transformed a struggling franchise into a National League powerhouse throughout the 1990s and delivered the city’s first major championship, passed away Saturday at age 84.

The Hall of Fame manager died in Marietta, Georgia, the Atlanta Braves confirmed. Cox had been battling health complications since suffering a stroke in 2019, including cardiac problems that hindered his recovery.

“Bobby was the best manager to ever wear a Braves uniform. He led our team to 14 straight division titles, five National League pennants, and the unforgettable World Series title in 1995. His Braves managerial legacy will never be matched,” the team stated.

After inheriting a cellar-dwelling squad in June 1990, Cox orchestrated one of baseball’s most remarkable turnarounds, guiding the Braves from worst to first in 1991. Though they lost that World Series to Minnesota in seven games, it launched an unprecedented streak of 14 straight division championships — a professional sports record.

During his 25-year tenure with Atlanta, Cox delivered the franchise’s first World Series crown in 1995, stepped down following the 2010 campaign, and earned Baseball Hall of Fame induction in 2014.

“Bobby was a favorite among all in the baseball community, especially those who played for him. His wealth of knowledge on player development and the intricacies of managing the game were rewarded with the sport’s ultimate prize in 2014 — enshrinement into the Baseball Hall of Fame,” the organization noted.

Cox’s statistical achievements place him among baseball’s managerial elite: fourth all-time with 2,504 victories, fifth with 4,508 games managed, first with 15 division crowns including that record 14-year run, first with 16 playoff appearances, and fourth with 67 postseason wins.

Only Connie Mack, John McGraw and Tony La Russa accumulated more regular-season victories than Cox. He also holds the record for most managerial ejections with 158.

“He is the Atlanta Braves,” former catcher Brian McCann said in 2019. “He’s the best.”

McCann characterized Cox as an “icon” and “one of the best human beings any of us have ever met.”

The Braves honored Cox by retiring his No. 6 jersey in 2011 and inducting him into the team’s Hall of Fame.

Across 29 major league seasons as a manager, including four years with Toronto, Cox guided 16 teams to the postseason. He brought traditional baseball values to the dugout, always sporting cleats and stirrups while earning fierce player loyalty through his paternal leadership style.

Milwaukee has added outfielder Brandon Lockridge to their 10-day injured list following a leg injury, with the team bringing up Blake Perkins from their Triple-A affiliate in Nashville, according to Saturday reports from the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.

The 29-year-old Lockridge sustained his injury during Friday’s matchup with the New York Yankees when he collided with the wall while pursuing a foul ball in the fourth inning. Medical examinations ruled out fractures, but doctors found a deep cut that reached the bone.

This season, Lockridge has posted a .294 batting average across 28 games, recording four doubles and driving in 12 runs. Throughout his three-year major league career with San Diego and Milwaukee, he maintains a .251 batting average with one home run and 24 RBIs over 107 games.

The returning Perkins, also 29, struggled during his recent stint with Milwaukee, managing just five hits in 46 at-bats for a .109 average before being sent down to Nashville earlier this week. Over his four seasons with the Brewers organization, Perkins has compiled a .224 career average with 13 home runs and 87 RBIs in 261 games.

The Atlanta Braves organization confirmed Saturday that Bobby Cox, the Hall of Fame manager who guided the team through its most successful era, has passed away at 84 years old.

Cox transformed the Braves into a baseball dynasty throughout the 1990s, culminating in the franchise’s sole World Series title in 1995. His managerial career with Atlanta concluded following the 2010 season, capping off decades of excellence on the diamond.

The veteran skipper became synonymous with Braves baseball during an unprecedented run of success that made Atlanta a perennial contender and household name across the sport.

The Houston Astros have sidelined left-handed pitcher Bennett Sousa for at least two weeks due to an elbow injury, the team announced Saturday. The club has brought up right-handed reliever Jayden Murray from their Triple-A Sugar Land affiliate to take his place on the roster.

Sousa is suffering from inflammation in his left elbow, with his placement on the injured list dating back to Wednesday of this week.

The 31-year-old reliever has struggled this season, posting an 8.10 earned run average across five appearances out of the bullpen. Over his four-year major league career spanning three different organizations, Sousa holds an 8-1 record with a 4.54 ERA. He joined the Astros organization in 2023.

Murray, who is 29 years old, appeared in four relief outings earlier this season and recorded a 6.00 ERA during that stint. Since breaking into the majors last year, he has compiled a 3.06 ERA over 13 total games, including one start.

In additional roster moves, Houston acquired outfielder Rhylan Thomas through waivers from the Seattle Mariners and immediately assigned him to Sugar Land. To create space on their 40-man roster, the Astros moved right-handed pitcher Hunter Brown to the 60-day injured list due to a shoulder issue.

Chicago has added veteran wide receiver Scotty Miller to their roster as a free agent, according to confirmation from his agents on Saturday.

Representatives Drew Rosenhaus and Robert Bailey verified the signing to ESPN but did not reveal contract details for the 28-year-old player.

During the previous season with Pittsburgh, Miller recorded nine receptions for 62 yards across 13 appearances, though he did not start any games or score touchdowns.

Throughout his NFL career spanning 93 games with nine starts, Miller has accumulated 99 receptions for 1,216 yards and six touchdowns while playing for Tampa Bay (2019-22), Atlanta (2023), and Pittsburgh (2024-25).

Tampa Bay selected Miller in the 2019 sixth round of the draft, and he contributed to their Super Bowl championship during the following season.

Chicago’s current wide receiver roster features Rome Odunze and 2026 third-round selection Zavion Thomas among others.

Minnesota Twins right-handed pitcher Taj Bradley was added to the 15-day injured list Saturday due to inflammation affecting his right pectoral muscle.

The roster move was made retroactive to Wednesday, which came one day after Bradley delivered a strong performance against Washington, striking out eight hitters across six innings in an 11-3 Twins victory.

The 25-year-old pitcher has posted a 4-1 record with a 2.87 ERA across eight starts this season. In 47 innings of work, he has recorded 52 strikeouts while issuing 17 walks.

Throughout his major league career, Bradley holds a 23-28 record with a 4.64 ERA over 83 games, including 81 starts. He previously played for Tampa Bay from 2023-25 before Minnesota acquired him in a trade deadline deal that sent right-hander Griffin Jax to the Rays.

To fill Bradley’s spot on the 26-man roster, the Twins brought up right-hander Travis Adams from their Triple-A affiliate in St. Paul.

Adams, 26, has appeared in five relief outings this season for St. Paul, compiling a 3-0 record with a 9.00 ERA.

CHICAGO — This Sunday’s NBA draft lottery could deliver top picks to teams that spent the season deliberately losing games, with Washington guaranteed a top-five selection and Brooklyn and Utah positioned for premium picks after enduring some of the worst seasons in franchise history.

The lottery process involves drawing four ping-pong balls from a secured container, witnessed by team representatives and select media members in a private room. These balls create a numerical combination that corresponds to one assigned to participating teams, determining who receives the first overall pick in next month’s draft.

“June 23rd, I’ll know where I’m at,” said AJ Dybantsa, the BYU standout who declared for the draft after leading college basketball in scoring this past season.

Dybantsa will likely learn his destination Sunday, as he joins Kansas’ Darryn Peterson and Duke’s Cameron Boozer among the projected top three selections.

Washington, Brooklyn, and Indiana each hold identical 14% chances of securing the number one pick — though those remain relatively modest odds.

The Wizards compiled a dismal 3-26 record following the All-Star break, including allowing Miami’s Bam Adebayo to score 83 points in a single contest. Washington cannot drop below fifth position and faces essentially even odds of landing exactly there, with a 52.1% probability of a top-four selection versus 47.9% for fifth place.

“This was going to be a season of development and opportunity,” said Wizards coach Brian Keefe during his end-of-season press conference. “And that is something that we really focused on all the way up to Game 82.”

Washington anticipates significant improvement next season after acquiring Trae Young and Anthony Davis through trades, making another basement finish unlikely with a potential top pick added to the roster.

Accusations of tanking — intentionally losing to improve draft position — have surrounded Washington, Brooklyn, and Utah this season.

Brooklyn suffered their worst point differential in franchise history, being outscored by 975 points and losing 43 games by double digits. Utah endured their own historic low, getting outscored by 858 points with 41 double-digit defeats.

Nets owner Joe Tsai acknowledged the rebuilding approach before the season began.

“We hope to get a good pick,” Tsai stated at the All-In Summit last fall. “So, you can predict what kind of strategy we will use for this season.”

The league fined Utah $500,000 during the season for benching top players in fourth quarters, though the Jazz still managed to win one such game in Miami. Their poor finish secured a top-eight pick that otherwise might have transferred to Oklahoma City.

Remaining lottery odds for the top selection include Utah and Sacramento at 11.5%, Atlanta at 9.8%, Memphis at 9%, Dallas at 6.7%, Chicago at 4.5%, Golden State at 2%, Oklahoma City at 1.5%, Miami at 1%, and Charlotte at 0.5%.

Atlanta’s percentage combines two separate scenarios that could deliver them the first pick.

In a potentially controversial outcome, the defending champion Thunder could claim the top pick despite their success. If the position typically belonging to the Clippers wins the lottery, it transfers to Oklahoma City through the trade that brought Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to the Thunder.

The Clippers maintain a 48% chance of moving up if Indiana lands in fifth or sixth position, as those picks would convey to Los Angeles rather than staying with the Pacers.

“Call it a coin-flip chance of getting a high, high lottery pick in a loaded draft,” said Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank.

The NBA expects to implement a revised lottery system next season, with framework established last month to further discourage tanking behavior. The Board of Governors will likely approve these changes in coming weeks, following Tuesday’s general manager meeting in Chicago.

This season featured an unprecedented race to lose, with five teams — Washington, Indiana, Utah, Memphis, and Brooklyn — posting sub-.180 winning percentages after the All-Star break, marking the first time in league history so many franchises performed this poorly in the season’s final stretch.

“The incentives are not necessarily matched here,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in February regarding teams with the worst records receiving the best lottery odds. “I think the tradition in sports where the worst-performing team receives the first pick from their partners, when any economist comes and looks at our system, they always point out you have the incentives backwards there. That doesn’t necessarily make sense.”

SAN FRANCISCO — Cleveland has acquired two-time Gold Glove catcher Patrick Bailey from San Francisco in a Saturday trade that addresses both teams’ catching situations.

San Francisco received minor league southpaw Matt Wilkinson and Cleveland’s 29th selection in the 2026 amateur draft as compensation for Bailey.

To create roster space for Bailey, Cleveland sent Bo Naylor down to Triple-A Columbus. Naylor had served as the Guardians’ primary catcher since the 2023 season.

Since his major league debut in 2023, Bailey has established himself among baseball’s premier defensive backstops, particularly excelling at pitch framing. Over the past two-plus seasons, he leads all major leaguers with 69 catcher framing runs and 42 defensive runs saved.

However, Bailey’s offensive production has been problematic and reached new lows this year. Through 89 plate appearances, he was hitting .146 with just one home run and five RBIs. Among 286 players with at least 75 plate appearances this season, his .396 OPS ranked dead last.

San Francisco could afford to move Bailey with Daniel Susac and Jesus Rodriguez positioned to share catching responsibilities, along with Eric Haase available as depth. These alternatives have delivered significantly better offensive production for the Giants, who entered Saturday averaging just 3.16 runs per game — worst in baseball — and sharing the National League’s poorest record with New York.

Bailey, who celebrates his 27th birthday later this month, captured Gold Glove honors in both 2024 and 2025. Throughout his career, he maintains a .224 batting average with a .611 OPS.

Naylor posted a .237 average during his 2023 rookie campaign but has battled offensive struggles over the subsequent two-plus seasons. His .143 batting average this year ranks last among the 29 catchers with at least 90 plate appearances.

Since 2024, his .192 batting average places him second-worst among catchers who have played in at least 200 games.

Cleveland entered Saturday with a 21-19 record atop the AL Central standings. Bailey was scheduled to join the club before Saturday night’s game against Minnesota. Austin Hedges has also received consistent playing time at catcher.

The 23-year-old Wilkinson represented Canada in this year’s World Baseball Classic. This season at Double-A Akron, he has compiled a 1-2 record with a 1.59 ERA across six starts, striking out 36 batters in 28 1/3 innings.

Robert Griffin III has stepped away from Team USA’s flag football program as the sport gears up for its first-ever Olympic appearance at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

The former NFL signal-caller, now 36, made the announcement Friday through social media, revealing he was pulling out of USA Football’s 2026 selection process because of a timing issue.

“A commitment honoring our military veterans is preventing me from attending training camp and that’s not fair to the other 23 guys competing for a spot this year,” Griffin posted. “Looking forward to seeing the squad go to Germany and win Gold and still excited for LA28.”

Griffin had been selected in March as one of four quarterbacks for the 24-player training camp roster. The upcoming camp is set for May 21-24 in Chula Vista, California.

From that group, coaches will trim the roster to 12 players who will compete for the United States at the 16-nation International Federation of American Flag Football World Championships. Those games will take place August 27-30 in Dusseldorf, Germany.

Griffin hasn’t suited up in the NFL since the 2020 campaign and currently serves as a football commentator for ESPN and Fox Sports.

Washington selected Griffin as the second overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft following his standout career at Baylor. He captured NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year recognition and earned a Pro Bowl selection in his debut season. Throughout his professional career spanning 56 games with 42 starts, Griffin accumulated 9,271 passing yards along with 43 touchdown passes and 30 interceptions while playing for Washington (2012-14), Cleveland Browns (2016), and Baltimore Ravens (2018-20). He also contributed 1,809 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns.

Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Addison Barger made his return to the active roster Saturday after spending time on the 10-day injured list, while the team sent rookie Yohendrick Pinango down to their Triple-A Buffalo affiliate.

The 26-year-old Barger had been sidelined since April 5 due to ankle sprains affecting both feet. His season got off to a rough start with just one hit in 19 at-bats across eight games, a stark contrast to his strong 2023 campaign where he connected for 21 home runs and drove in 74 runs over 135 games. He followed that regular season performance with an impressive postseason showing, posting a .367 batting average along with three homers and nine RBIs in 17 playoff contests.

For Saturday’s matchup against the Los Angeles Angels at home, Barger was slotted into the starting lineup in right field, hitting in the second spot in the batting order.

Looking at his overall major league statistics since breaking into the big leagues in 2024, Barger carries a .224 career batting average with 28 home runs and 104 RBIs across 212 games in a Blue Jays uniform.

The corresponding roster move involved sending down Pinango, the 24-year-old who earned his first major league call-up on April 26. During his brief stint with Toronto, he posted impressive numbers with a .423 batting average, one double, and four RBIs over 10 games.

Tennessee has completed contract negotiations with their top 2026 draft selection, wide receiver Carnell Tate, securing him on a four-year rookie deal.

The Ohio State product, selected fourth overall in this year’s draft, will earn $51.1 million in guaranteed compensation, which features a $33.6 million signing bonus. Friday’s announcement revealed the agreement also contains a fifth-year team option for the young receiver.

With Tate’s contract finalized, Tennessee can now focus on completing deals with their remaining unsigned rookies: edge rusher Keldric Faulk from Auburn (selected 31st overall) and linebacker Anthony Hill from Texas (second-round selection).

During his final collegiate season, the 21-year-old Tate recorded 51 receptions for 875 receiving yards and nine touchdowns across 11 games for the Buckeyes. Throughout his three-year career at Ohio State, he accumulated 121 catches for 1,872 yards and 14 touchdowns over 39 total games.

The Cleveland Guardians made a major roster move Saturday, trading with the San Francisco Giants to acquire defensive specialist Patrick Bailey, a catcher who has earned Gold Glove recognition in consecutive seasons.

Cleveland sent their 29th overall selection in this year’s draft along with left-handed pitching prospect Matt Wilkinson to San Francisco in return for the 26-year-old Bailey. The move strengthens Cleveland’s catching corps, which already includes Austin Hedges and Bo Naylor, though the team immediately sent Naylor down to their Triple-A affiliate in Columbus.

While Bailey’s offensive numbers have struggled this season – posting a .146 batting average with just one home run and five RBIs across 30 games – his defensive prowess has been consistently elite. Over his entire major league career spanning 383 games with San Francisco, he has compiled a .224 batting average while contributing 22 home runs and 154 RBIs.

The Giants expressed their appreciation for Bailey’s contributions in a social media post, stating: “From unbelievable defense to unforgettable walk-off home runs, we thank you, Patrick, and wish you good luck.”

In return, San Francisco receives Wilkinson, a 23-year-old southpaw who was Cleveland’s 10th-round selection in the 2023 MLB Draft. This season at Double-A Akron, Wilkinson has posted impressive numbers with a 1-2 record and 1.59 ERA through six starts.

Milwaukee’s Jacob Misiorowski delivered a masterful performance on the mound Friday night, recording 11 strikeouts during six shutout innings to lead the Brewers past the New York Yankees 6-0 in the opening game of their three-game series.

The powerful right-hander Misiorowski (3-2) dominated throughout his 95-pitch appearance, surrendering only two singles while issuing two walks. His velocity was particularly impressive early, as all 10 of his first-inning pitches exceeded 102 mph. The 24-year-old’s previous outing saw him throw 5 1/3 no-hit innings before leaving due to a hamstring cramp.

Rookie reliever Shane Drohan completed the shutout for Milwaukee, giving up just one hit during the final three frames to earn his first major league save. Brandon Lockridge contributed offensively with two hits and two RBIs before suffering an injury that required him to be carted off the field in the fourth inning due to a severe cut on his right knee.

The Yankees managed only three hits total, with Jose Caballero accounting for two of them. New York entered the contest having won six of their last seven games. Milwaukee broke the game open with a four-run second inning, during which their first five batters all reached base against Yankees starter Max Fried (4-2).

In other Friday action around Major League Baseball, the Chicago Cubs extended their winning streak to 10 games with a 7-1 victory over Texas. Seiya Suzuki launched a two-run homer while Michael Busch drove in three with a double. Ian Happ’s RBI single extended his on-base streak to 29 games.

The Los Angeles Dodgers rallied past Atlanta 3-1, with Shohei Ohtani delivering the go-ahead single in the fifth inning and Freddie Freeman homering against his former team in the sixth. Freeman’s blast ended a 26-game homerless drought.

Houston blanked Cincinnati 10-0, handing the Reds their eighth consecutive defeat. Zach Cole capped the scoring with a three-run homer during a five-run ninth inning, while Mike Burrows threw seven strong innings for the Astros.

Toronto ended their four-game skid by shutting out the Los Angeles Angels 2-0, as Dylan Cease struck out 10 batters over seven innings. Seattle powered past Chicago 12-8 behind Luke Raley’s grand slam and three-run homer, giving him seven RBIs on the night.

St. Louis pitchers combined for a one-hitter in a 6-0 victory over San Diego, while Colorado defeated Philadelphia 9-7 in 11 innings on Troy Johnston’s pinch-hit RBI double. The New York Mets edged Arizona 3-1 in 10 innings, and Oakland beat Baltimore 4-3 on Nick Kurtz’s two-run triple.

Boston’s pitching staff recorded their major league-leading sixth shutout in a 2-0 win over Tampa Bay, snapping the Rays’ seven-game winning streak. Cleveland topped Minnesota 6-4 behind rookie Travis Bazzana’s first major league homer, while Kansas City walked off against Detroit 4-3 on Kyle Isbel’s ninth-inning single.

Washington defeated Miami 3-2, San Francisco beat Pittsburgh 5-2, and several other games completed Friday’s full slate of action across the majors.

MINNEAPOLIS — Despite his smooth movements and natural grace on the basketball court, Victor Wembanyama’s battle-scarred arms told the real story of his dominant performance for the San Antonio Spurs on Friday night.

The fresh marks and bruises covering his lengthy limbs revealed the physical toll of battling in the paint all evening against the Minnesota Timberwolves, as the 7-foot-4 star compiled an impressive 39 points, 15 rebounds and five blocks in San Antonio’s 115-108 Game 3 triumph that put the Spurs ahead 2-1 in their second-round playoff matchup.

“It’s going to happen,” Wembanyama said. “They’re Wolves, after all.”

San Antonio maintained their perfect road record in this year’s postseason while capturing their first victory in a tight contest, following four first-round wins against Portland that were decided by margins ranging from 12 to 21 points.

“They just continue showing growth,” coach Mitch Johnson said.

Leading that development is Wembanyama himself. The 22-year-old French sensation, competing in his inaugural NBA playoffs, has appeared in just seven postseason contests but is already establishing an impressive historical mark.

Throughout NBA playoff history, only Hall of Fame centers Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Hakeem Olajuwon, and Shaquille O’Neal had previously achieved the combination of 35 points, 15 rebounds, and five blocks in a single playoff contest. Wembanyama became the first to accomplish this feat while shooting above 70 percent from the field, connecting on 13 of 18 attempts and making 10 of 12 free throws.

“It’s good to be along with the big fellas,” said Wembanyama, who gave credit to Olajuwon for teaching him a spin fadeaway move that he successfully executed over his former mentor Rudy Gobert during a crucial 16-point fourth quarter.

Wembanyama achieved this performance despite receiving his fifth foul with 6:18 remaining, spending only about one minute on the bench during crunch time as he helped San Antonio pull away whenever Minnesota closed within striking distance.

“Just staying calm, getting my senses back,” Wembanyama said. “Our coaches tell us what to do. They give us the recipe, so as long as we stay steady and we trust our process we’re going to be all right.”

After establishing an NBA playoff record with 12 blocked shots in the series opener, Wembanyama expressed disappointment with his offensive contribution following Monday’s 104-102 defeat to Minnesota. He responded emphatically in Game 2 by immediately establishing control on both sides of the court, leading San Antonio to a commanding 133-95 victory on Wednesday, and maintained that momentum despite traveling to Minnesota.

Beginning with two spectacular dunks off alley-oop passes, including a reverse finish, Wembanyama tallied San Antonio’s first seven points as they jumped to an early 18-3 advantage. His defensive presence proved even more impactful, as he patrolled the lane and consistently forced Minnesota players to modify their close-range shots to avoid potential blocks.

“He’s a world-class defender. You’re always aware of him,” Wolves guard Ayo Dosunmu said. “Yeah, he’s a gift at that end of the court.”

Mitch Marner delivered a career-defining performance Friday night, recording his first playoff hat trick in a dominant four-point showing that powered the Vegas Golden Knights to a commanding 6-2 victory over the Anaheim Ducks in Game 3 of their Western Conference semifinal matchup.

The win puts Vegas ahead 2-1 in the best-of-seven series as they look to advance deeper into the postseason.

“There’s a lot of work to still go,” Marner said. “It’s always nice to contribute, but we just want to do what we can to try and win hockey games.”

Supporting Marner’s explosive offensive display, Shea Theodore and Brett Howden each contributed a goal and assist, while Brayden McNabb also found the back of the net for the Golden Knights. Goaltender Carter Hart was stellar between the pipes, turning away 31 shots to secure the victory.

Vegas coach John Tortorella was pleased with his team’s performance after two challenging games to start the series.

“I thought we entered the series tonight,” Tortorella said.

The Golden Knights will attempt to seize control of the series when they face off against Anaheim in Game 4 on Sunday.

For the Ducks, Beckett Sennecke and Chris Kreider managed to light the lamp in the losing effort. Anaheim’s goaltending struggled early, as starter Lukas Dostal was pulled after allowing three goals on just eight shots in the opening period. Relief goalie Ville Husso performed better, making 17 saves on 19 attempts.

Anaheim coach Joel Quenneville acknowledged his team needs to elevate their play moving forward.

“I think there’s a lesson to take out of today’s game,” Quenneville said. “It’s only gonna get harder every single game, not gonna get any easier. So let’s get ready to go to war.

“They played like an experienced bunch and they know what’s necessary as you progress in a series. They got our attention.”

Vegas wasted no time establishing control after offensive struggles in the series opener. Theodore struck first, joining a rush and converting from the slot just 66 seconds into the contest.

McNabb extended the lead to 2-0 with a short-handed marker at the 12:13 mark, beating Dostal from the left faceoff circle after collecting a drop pass from Marner. The goal marked Vegas’s third short-handed tally of the playoffs.

Marner capped off a dominant first period with a power-play goal, cleaning up a loose puck beside the net with just 4.6 seconds left on the clock to make it 3-0.

The second period belonged to Marner as well. He netted his second goal near the midway point when Theodore found him with a perfect pass as he drove to the net, allowing him to tuck the puck inside the post.

Marner’s hat trick was completed when his sharp-angle attempt found its way past Husso with 2:04 remaining in the middle frame.

Anaheim finally broke through in the third period when Sennecke pushed a loose puck across the goal line at 6:30. Kreider added another Ducks goal with 4:41 left, firing quickly from the low slot to cut the deficit to 5-2.

Howden sealed the victory with an empty-net goal in the final two minutes of play.

The triumph came with a concerning development for Vegas, as captain Mark Stone exited the game after the first period with an apparent injury suffered while backchecking. Stone did not return for the remainder of the contest.

Tortorella offered no details about Stone’s condition following the game.

Victor Wembanyama delivered a dominant performance with 39 points, 15 rebounds and five blocked shots, leading the San Antonio Spurs to a 115-108 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 3 of their Western Conference semifinal matchup Friday night in Minneapolis.

The towering star shot an impressive 13-of-18 from the field and connected on three of five three-point attempts, propelling San Antonio to a 2-1 advantage in the best-of-seven playoff series.

“I’ve really been waiting since I’ve been in the league to live those moments, those high-stakes games,” Wembanyama said postgame on Prime Video. “That’s what I love. … I’m built for this. I love this more than anything else.”

Supporting Wembanyama’s stellar effort, De’Aaron Fox contributed 17 points while Stephon Castle recorded 13 points and distributed 12 assists for the Spurs.

When asked about what fans are witnessing from Wembanyama during his inaugural postseason run, Fox didn’t mince words.

“Greatness,” Fox said. “We all know that. We see him every day. We see the work and the time that he puts into his game and his body, knowing that teams are going to come out here and try to be physical with him.”

“He fights through that. He doesn’t complain. He knows what he’s going to endure, and he comes out here and he produces.”

For Minnesota, Anthony Edwards paced the scoring with 32 points while collecting 14 rebounds. Naz Reid provided a spark off the bench with 18 points and nine boards, while Jaden McDaniels chipped in 17 points.

Timberwolves guard Ayo Dosunmu acknowledged his team allowed San Antonio too much offensive freedom throughout the contest.

“I don’t think our point-of-attack (defense) was where it needed to be,” Dosunmu said. “There were too many times that we made a shot and then they came right back and got a good look. So we’ve got to do a better job of matching up and do a better job of controlling the point of attack and not letting them just live off attacking us.”

The series continues with Game 4 scheduled for Sunday evening in Minneapolis.

Minnesota, which fell behind by 15 points during the opening quarter, managed to close the gap to 106-103 with 3:27 left on the clock when Reid sank a three-pointer.

Wembanyama answered immediately on San Antonio’s following possession, draining his third long-range shot of the night. Late free throws from both Wembanyama and Dylan Harper in the final minute helped secure the win for the Spurs.

The Spurs held an 86-79 lead entering the fourth quarter.

Tensions flared during the third period when Harper became entangled with McDaniels and struck his head while falling to the floor. As Harper remained down, Castle approached McDaniels, sparking a brief confrontation before officials intervened to restore order.

Both Castle and McDaniels were assessed technical fouls, while Harper was able to continue playing.

The teams entered halftime deadlocked at 51-51.

San Antonio opened the game with an explosive 18-3 run, fueled largely by Wembanyama’s early dominance as he tallied nine of the Spurs’ initial 11 points. Minnesota struggled mightily out of the gate, missing their opening 13 field goal attempts.

Edwards eventually found his rhythm as the Timberwolves closed the first quarter with a 19-5 surge, trimming their deficit to just one point. Minnesota’s early rally reached its peak when Edwards connected on a spectacular 31-foot buzzer-beater, bringing the score to 23-22 at the end of the first period.

The Chicago Cubs have accomplished something that hasn’t been seen in nearly 90 years, securing their second 10-game winning streak of the season following a commanding 7-1 victory against the Texas Rangers in Arlington on Friday evening.

Michael Busch delivered a crucial three-run double while Ian Happ continued his impressive on-base streak, now at 29 consecutive games, as Chicago reached this historic milestone. Not since 1935 has the franchise recorded two separate 10-game winning streaks within a single season.

“That means you’re doing something that’s pretty rare, and I think we realize that,” said manager Craig Counsell.

The achievement places the Cubs in exclusive company. According to Sportradar, the last major league team to accomplish two 10-game winning streaks within their first 39 games was the 1955 Brooklyn Dodgers, who did so in just 24 games. The Cubs’ only better performance came in 1906 when they managed four such streaks.

Second baseman Nico Hoerner reflected on the rarity of the accomplishment: “Baseball is a game of a ridiculous amount of stats and things to look up, so anytime you have to go that far back, it is obviously a good sign, especially on a positive like that. We’re just going to keep it rolling.”

The speed at which Chicago achieved this feat is particularly noteworthy, completing both 10-game streaks by May 8. “That’s a crazy sentence,” Hoerner remarked.

Currently sitting at 27-12, the Cubs have captured 20 victories in their past 23 contests, with only three consecutive defeats separating their two extended winning runs. Last season, Milwaukee accomplished a similar feat with two 10-game streaks en route to claiming the NL Central division title, finishing five games ahead of Chicago.

“If you break it to small things, it’s just come and play a good game today, and we played a really good game today, a really well-rounded, well-pitched for sure, with some pressure a lot in a bunch of innings,” Counsell explained. “It’s been the recipe for a lot of wins.”

The last time the Cubs achieved multiple 10-game winning streaks was during their remarkable 1935 campaign, when Hall of Fame catcher Gabby Hartnett earned NL MVP honors under manager Charlie Grimm as the team won 100 games. The franchise has reached that 100-win mark only once since then, during their historic 2016 World Series championship season with 103 regular season victories.

Pitcher Ben Brown, who tossed four hitless innings in his first start of the season after 12 relief appearances, expressed amazement at the team’s achievement. “Two double-digit winning streaks in a season, that sounds pretty wild to me,” he said.

“That’s kudos to all the guys in the clubhouse, all the coaches, all the trainers, the sports staff,” Brown continued. “That is some goosebumps to think about how talented this team is. It’s special to be a part of, it’s special to witness, it’s special to watch.”

Jalen Brunson delivered a dominant 33-point performance, propelling the New York Knicks to a commanding 108-94 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference semifinal matchup. The triumph puts New York on the brink of advancing to the conference finals, holding a decisive 3-0 series advantage heading into Sunday’s Game 4 in Philadelphia.

Brunson sealed the victory with crucial baskets in the closing minutes, energizing the traveling Knicks supporters who made their presence felt at the Wells Fargo Center. Supporting Brunson’s stellar effort, Josh Hart contributed a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds, while Mikal Bridges chipped in 23 points. The victory moves first-year head coach Mike Brown’s squad within one win of reaching their second consecutive conference championship series.

For Philadelphia, Joel Embiid returned to action after sitting out Game 2 due to injuries, managing 18 points in the losing effort. Despite his presence, the 76ers couldn’t generate enough offense to keep pace with the surging Knicks.

In other sports news, the NFL and its referees’ union reached agreement on a new seven-year collective bargaining deal, preventing a potential work stoppage that could have lasted through the 2032 season. League officials had begun preparing replacement referees last month as negotiations stalled, but the new agreement makes those contingency plans unnecessary. The resolution avoids a repeat of the 2012 situation when a 110-day lockout forced the league to use substitute officials.

The New York Jets secured their star running back for the long term, agreeing to a three-year, $45.75 million contract extension with Breece Hall, according to a source familiar with the negotiations. The deal, finalized Friday, makes Hall the NFL’s third-highest paid running back at $15.25 million annually. Hall had been playing under the franchise tag before the new agreement was reached. Last season, he rushed for a career-best 1,065 yards despite missing the final game with a knee injury.

Golf star Rory McIlroy has softened his stance on LIV Golf players potentially rejoining the PGA Tour, though he questions whether those players actually want to return. McIlroy believes the answer may depend on LIV’s financial stability after Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund recently ended future funding for the breakaway circuit. The tour had attracted top players like Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau with guaranteed contracts, but their long-term commitment now appears uncertain. McIlroy called welcoming back quality players “good business practice” for strengthening the PGA Tour.

Celebrity fans Spike Lee and Timothée Chalamet were among the Knicks supporters who made the trip to Philadelphia for Game 3, despite the 76ers’ attempts to limit visiting fans through restricted ticket sales. Some creative fans like Brooklyn resident Lenny Rakhmanov found ways around the restrictions, while Philadelphia countered by donating tickets to local community organizations to maintain home-court atmosphere.

College basketball received a financial boost with March Madness expansion bringing $300 million in additional revenue through new alcohol sponsorships, providing temporary relief from ongoing challenges facing collegiate athletics. However, concerns persist as programs like Arkansas tennis face elimination, while conferences like the Big 12 and schools like Duke scramble for new revenue sources. The industry’s regulatory body, the College Sports Commission, continues dealing with structural issues. The expanded 76-team tournament format debuts next year.

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Blake Snell will make his season debut Saturday against Atlanta after teammate Tyler Glasnow was placed on the 15-day injured list with lower back spasms. The two-time Cy Young Award winner returns earlier than expected from left shoulder fatigue that had sidelined him since late March. Originally scheduled for another minor league rehabilitation appearance, Snell instead gets the call to face the Braves at Dodger Stadium. The team recalled right-hander Paul Gervase from Triple-A Oklahoma City to fill the roster spot.

Miami Marlins prospect Robby Snelling made his major league debut Friday in a 3-2 loss to Washington, with young fans already seeking his autograph before the game. The left-handed pitcher, who was the organization’s second-ranked prospect, earned his call-up from Triple-A Jacksonville this week. Originally drafted 39th overall by San Diego in 2022, Snelling came to Miami in a 2024 trade that sent Tanner Scott and Bryan Hoeing to the Padres.

Baltimore Orioles fans lined up early at Camden Yards for a unique Tupac Shakur bobblehead giveaway, with the rap legend’s sister throwing out the ceremonial first pitch. The promotion honored Shakur’s connection to Baltimore, where he was raised before relocating to California’s Bay Area in the late 1980s. Friday’s matchup against Oakland made for fitting timing, with “California Love” playing during the Athletics’ lineup introductions. The visiting A’s, who departed Oakland before last season, defeated Baltimore 4-3.

Rory McIlroy surged into contention at the Truist Championship in Charlotte, firing a 4-under 67 in his second round to move within four shots of leader Sungjae Im. The world’s second-ranked player, competing for the first time since his Masters victory on April 12, struggled early but caught fire on the back nine with a 32. After sitting eight shots back at the turn, McIlroy’s strong finish positioned him for a potential fifth victory at Quail Hollow.

Golf superstar Rory McIlroy has modified his position regarding LIV Golf players potentially returning to the PGA Tour, stating Friday that welcoming back these golfers could benefit the traditional circuit.

McIlroy’s comments came amid uncertainty surrounding LIV Golf’s future, as Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund has announced plans to withdraw financial support following the current season. When questioned about how this development might affect the PGA Tour, the Northern Irish golfer offered a more welcoming perspective than he has previously expressed.

“It’s a question if (players) do want to come back,” McIlroy stated following his second round at the Truist Championship in Charlotte, where he finished tied for eighth. “Obviously we have seen the quotes over the last few days. And, you know, it seems like … it all depends on what happens to LIV.”

The four-time major champion continued: “But if it is a scenario where they have the option to come back and play on the traditional tours, you know, I think (PGA Tour CEO) Brian Rolapp has said anything that makes this Tour stronger, anything that makes the DP World Tour stronger, I think everyone should be open to that. That’s just good business practice.”

McIlroy also reflected on his previous criticism of the Saudi-backed league, acknowledging his earlier harsh stance. “I think everyone sort of knows my views on LIV and where it stands in the game of golf. I don’t think I need to rehash any of that. It’s never been for me and, look, it doesn’t mean that LIV is going to go away. They’re going to go and try and find alternative investment, whatever that may look like.”

He added a pointed observation about the financial implications: “But when one of the wealthiest sovereign wealth funds in the world thinks that you’re too expensive for them, that sort of says something.”

The PGA Tour has already established precedent for player returns through its Returning Member Program. Five-time major winner Brooks Koepka successfully rejoined the tour earlier this year after meeting specific requirements that included “heavy and appropriate limitations to both tournament access and potential earning that we believe properly holds returning members accountable for substantial compensation earned elsewhere.”

This program targets golfers who captured major championships including the Players Championship, Masters Tournament, PGA Championship, U.S. Open or Open Championship between 2022-25. Other eligible players under these guidelines include Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm and Cameron Smith.

Reflecting on his evolution regarding LIV players, McIlroy admitted Friday: “I was probably too judgmental with the guys that went because I was seeing it from my point of view and maybe not seeing it from other points of view. But again, I’m not going to judge anyone for not wanting to play on the PGA Tour.”

He suggested alternative pathways for returning players: “Does that mean that they go play DP World Tour maybe. If that’s a pathway, that would make the DP World Tour stronger, and I would be delighted with that, because that’s my home Tour, at the end of the day.”

Despite his more accommodating tone, McIlroy maintained his belief in the PGA Tour’s superiority: “But … if you want to be the most competitive golfer you can be, (the PGA Tour) is the place to be. And if you don’t want to play here, I think that says something about you.”

The Women’s National Basketball Association made history Friday evening as the Toronto Tempo launched their debut season, marking the league’s first expansion beyond American borders.

A capacity crowd of 8,210 enthusiastic supporters packed Coca-Cola Coliseum to witness the Tempo face off against the Washington Mystics in their historic home opener. Spectators of all ages donned the team’s signature bordeaux and borealis blue colors, creating an atmosphere of excitement throughout the venue.

The evening began with tremendous energy as fans erupted in celebration following the Toronto Children’s Choir’s performance of “O Canada.” During game breaks, young girls wearing Tempo merchandise were featured on the arena’s large screen, entertaining the crowd with their spirited dance moves.

While Canadian player Kia Nurse received warm applause during team introductions, soccer legend Christine Sinclair generated some of the evening’s most enthusiastic and sustained ovations when she appeared on the video board.

This milestone represents a significant development for both the WNBA and Canada, as the country previously had no opportunity for women to compete in elite professional basketball within their homeland.

For 30-year-old Nurse, who was raised in the Toronto suburbs, this moment fulfills a long-held dream.

“It’s really special and it’s kind of a full-circle moment,” Nurse commented earlier this week, expressing that she’s “grateful for the opportunity to be on this stage and to be given this platform for growing women’s basketball in Canada.”

The city demonstrated its enthusiasm for professional women’s basketball in 2023 when an exhibition matchup between the Minnesota Lynx and Chicago Sky attracted nearly 20,000 fans to Scotiabank Arena, the home venue of the NBA’s Toronto Raptors.

Team members noticed the mounting anticipation even before taking the court, as devoted local supporters expressed their commitment in the days preceding the season opener.

According to Tempo center Temi Fágbénlé, who experienced a similar launch with the Golden State Valkyries last season, such enthusiasm typically accompanies being “the new thing in town.”

“But it’s more than just a new thing,” Fágbénlé explained. “It’s supporting women’s sports. So many young girls [and] older women as well haven’t seen this in Canada.”

Nurse anticipates this increased exposure will strengthen the national team program, predicting that eventually “you’ll be able to field an entire (Canadian) Olympic roster from WNBA players because these will be Tempo-influenced players.”

The veteran guard has also stressed to her fellow players that they carry the support of an entire nation.

Embracing their identity as “Canada’s team,” the Tempo will host two regular-season contests each in Montreal and Vancouver this year. Nurse believes these appearances will foster connection among fans and aspiring players nationwide.

“(Sports is) a place where you belong,” Nurse stated. “It’s a place where you can look out on the court and see somebody that looks like you and resonate with them, resonate with their story.”

“To be able to do that across Canada is truly special.”

Head coach Sandy Brondello, like her players, views the franchise as evidence of women’s basketball’s continued expansion.

With 27 years of WNBA experience and two championship titles, Brondello has witnessed the league’s transformation through franchise additions, corporate partnerships, and growing fan interest in women’s professional basketball.

She believes the Tempo’s arrival will sustain this positive trajectory, particularly throughout Canada.

“We are creating history,” Brondello declared. “But we want to make history, too.”

A heavyweight fighter’s disruptive behavior stole the spotlight from the UFC’s historic White House event during Friday’s press conference for UFC Freedom 250.

The promotional event took place in Newark, New Jersey, where UFC 328 was scheduled for Saturday. However, attention centered on the groundbreaking Washington fight card, with all 14 scheduled competitors present for traditional staredowns.

Undefeated heavyweight Josh Hokit, set to battle Derrick Lewis, transformed the gathering into his own theatrical performance.

Wearing a black robe, sunglasses, American flag gloves and bandana, Hokit delivered wrestling-style rants targeting not only Lewis but also Alex Pereira and Ilia Topuria before UFC security escorted him out. His profanity-filled speeches attempted to rhyme and consistently concluded with “Am I right, New Jersey?”

Hokit referred to Lewis as “the Black Pillsbury Doughboy” and hurled multiple offensive slurs at other competitors. Most fighters avoided responding until Topuria rose to protect Pereira, who lacks English fluency and seemed confused by Hokit’s verbal attacks.

Topuria hurled a small object at Hokit before security removed the 28-year-old Californian from the venue.

The former college football player and wrestler maintained his perfect 9-0 mixed martial arts record after defeating Curtis Blaydes by unanimous decision at UFC 327 last month.

Separately, UFC CEO Dana White intervened during Mauricio Ruffy’s staredown with Michael Chandler when Ruffy extended his arms and touched Chandler’s chin with his fist. Other confrontations proceeded without problems.

White explained Friday why the UFC would distribute 85,000 free tickets for public viewing at Ellipse Park across from the White House, where fans will watch on large screens rather than attending the South Lawn directly.

“It’s on federal land,” White explained. “We’re (paying) the bill for this whole fight. And I can’t sell a hot dog, a T-shirt or a ticket. Nothing can be sold on federal land.”

White revealed approximately 4,000 people will attend the South Lawn where the octagon will be constructed. President Donald Trump will receive 1,000 tickets, while White and TKO Group CEO Ari Emanuel will each get 200, with remaining seats distributed among military branches.

Although Trump didn’t attend Friday’s press conference, he welcomed several UFC fighters at the White House on Wednesday and unveiled octagon renderings featuring the presidential residence as backdrop.

Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Brandon Lockridge sustained a leg injury Friday evening and required a cart to leave the field during his team’s home matchup against the New York Yankees.

The incident occurred in the fourth inning when Lockridge dove unsuccessfully for Cody Bellinger’s foul pop-up, colliding with the outfield barrier. The player appeared to make contact with the concrete beneath the wall padding at a corner where the barrier extends outward.

Prior to his exit, Lockridge was having an outstanding offensive performance, going 2-for-2 with one run scored. He contributed significantly to Milwaukee’s early lead with an RBI hit during a four-run rally in the second inning against pitcher Max Fried, then drove in another run with a single in the third frame that extended the Brewers’ advantage to 5-0.

The outfielder entered the contest with a .277 batting average, zero home runs, and 10 runs batted in for the season. Milwaukee officials have not yet provided an update regarding Lockridge’s condition or the extent of his injury.

Two NHL powerhouses are rewriting the playoff record books with their dominant performances this postseason.

Both the Carolina Hurricanes and Colorado Avalanche have maintained perfect records through their current playoff runs, showcasing the championship-caliber play that made them the league’s top regular season teams. These squads, whose weather-themed names match their destructive play on ice, have yet to taste defeat in this year’s postseason.

Carolina’s 4-1 victory over Philadelphia on Thursday night pushed their series lead to 3-0 and marked their seventh consecutive playoff triumph. This achievement places the Hurricanes among just 13 teams in NHL history to open a postseason with seven straight victories. Notably, eight of the previous 12 teams to accomplish this feat went on to capture the Stanley Cup.

The Hurricanes will rely on red-hot netminder Frederik Andersen in Saturday’s Game 4 as they attempt to eliminate the Flyers. A victory would make Carolina only the fourth team since 1985 to begin the playoffs with an 8-0 record.

“I would anticipate we’re going to give it our best, because we’re going to need to,” Carolina coach Rod Brind’Amour said. “We’re not going to win if we don’t put our best foot forward.”

While only three NHL teams have ever rallied from a 3-0 series deficit to win, many clubs have managed to extend their series to at least five games.

“The fourth one is the hardest one to win. No one wants to go home,” Hurricanes captain Jordan Staal said. “It’s going to be a brand-new challenge.”

In the Western Conference, Colorado sits just one victory away from matching Carolina’s historic start. The Avalanche have already lit up Minnesota for 14 goals in their semifinal matchup and could join the Hurricanes at 7-0 with a Game 3 victory Saturday night. The NHL scheduled a three-day break between games to align all four ongoing series.

“For our team, the energy and pace that we want to play with on a nightly basis that helps us have success, it doesn’t hurt,” Colorado coach Jared Bednar said. “It doesn’t hurt to be rested and recovered and still get a little practice time in to go out and feel good about your puck touches and your systems and everything. Meetings don’t have to get crammed in. You can take your time and get feedback from the guys.”

Under Brind’Amour’s leadership, Carolina has reached the playoffs in all eight seasons. Last year’s Eastern Conference finals loss to eventual champion Florida serves as motivation for this year’s run. Should the Hurricanes defeat Philadelphia on Saturday, they would tie for the 10th-longest winning streak in a single NHL postseason. Historical data shows that 18 of the 23 teams to win eight or more consecutive playoff games in one year claimed the Stanley Cup.

The 1992 Chicago Blackhawks stand as a cautionary tale, however. They matched the all-time record with 11 straight playoff wins but fell short of the championship. That same spring, the Pittsburgh Penguins also reached 11 consecutive victories while completing their Stanley Cup Final sweep.

Colorado hopes to mirror Carolina’s ability to silence hostile crowds, as the Hurricanes demonstrated in their Game 3 road victory in Philadelphia. Minnesota hasn’t hosted a playoff game this deep into the postseason since 2015.

“It will be a rockin’ environment,” Avalanche goalie Scott Wedgewood said. “That’s what makes playoff so fun, right?”

Philadelphia faces elimination Saturday at 6 p.m. EDT, with coverage on TNT, truTV, and HBO Max. The Flyers have managed only three goals across three games against Carolina’s suffocating defensive system. Their regular season struggles on the power play continue, converting just once in 12 opportunities this series and three times in 29 chances over nine playoff contests.

The Colorado-Minnesota series resumes Saturday at 9 p.m. EDT on the same networks, with the Avalanche holding a 2-0 advantage. Minnesota has used the extended break to address penalty kill issues, particularly challenging given injuries to center Joel Eriksson Ek and defenseman Jonas Brodin. After controlling play at even strength against Dallas in round one, the Wild have struggled to contain Colorado’s explosive forwards in 5-on-5 situations. Minnesota may turn back to rookie goaltender Jesper Wallstedt after Filip Gustavsson’s 5-2 loss in Game 2.

LOS ANGELES — Two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell will take the mound Saturday for his first appearance of the season when the Los Angeles Dodgers host the Atlanta Braves in a showdown between National League division leaders.

The veteran left-hander’s return to the rotation comes earlier than expected following Tyler Glasnow’s departure from Wednesday’s game due to back issues. Los Angeles placed Glasnow on the 15-day injured list Friday with low back spasms and brought up right-hander Paul Gervase from Triple-A Oklahoma City.

A shoulder injury sidelined Snell for most of the 2025 regular season, limiting him to just 11 starts despite signing a five-year, $182 million deal in November 2024. However, the southpaw delivered when it mattered most, posting a 3-2 record across six postseason appearances as the Dodgers captured their second straight World Series championship.

Since late March, Snell has been dealing with left shoulder fatigue that landed him on the injured list. While originally scheduled for another minor league rehabilitation outing with Class A Ontario on Saturday, he’ll instead face Atlanta at Dodger Stadium.

Glasnow departed Wednesday’s contest against Houston after just one inning. Following an MRI examination, manager Dave Roberts told reporters Friday before the series opener against Atlanta that the results showed “nothing really significant.”

The 32-year-old Glasnow has compiled a 3-0 record with a 2.72 ERA through seven starts this season.

The towering 6-foot-10 Gervase, age 25, brings a 2-0 record and 3.65 ERA from nine appearances with Oklahoma City this year. His major league experience includes one outing with Los Angeles last season, where he recorded two strikeouts over two innings, plus five games with Tampa Bay that resulted in a 4.26 ERA.

Baseball fans arrived early at Camden Yards on Friday evening, eager to receive commemorative Tupac Shakur bobbleheads before the Baltimore Orioles game began.

“I grabbed three of them,” said Baltimore Orioles manager Craig Albernaz.

The legendary rapper spent his childhood years in New York and Baltimore before relocating to California’s San Francisco Bay Area during the late 1980s. His time living in Oakland in the early 1990s made Friday’s game between the Orioles and the Athletics a fitting occasion to celebrate the music icon, who died in 1996. During the A’s lineup announcement, the recognizable opening of “California Love” echoed through the stadium as a tribute to the team that departed Oakland after the previous season.

When discussing his preferred Tupac track, Albernaz referenced “Pain.”

“This is back on — I’m dating myself — Napster or LimeWire, trying to download that,” Albernaz explained.

The manager also noted that “All Eyez On Me” perfectly represents the current Baltimore squad.

Since every player on the Orioles’ current roster was born in 1989 or after, it remained uncertain whether the team members knew Shakur’s musical catalog.

“I hope so,” Albernaz commented. “I probably should ask around about that.”

Sekyiwa “Set” Shakur, the rapper’s sister, delivered the ceremonial opening pitch for the evening.

Thailand’s Jeeno Thitikul, ranked second in the world, has established a commanding three-stroke advantage after Friday’s second round as she seeks to defend her title at the Mizuho Americas Open in West Caldwell, New Jersey.

The 23-year-old champion from last year’s tournament at Liberty National Golf Club fired a 3-under-par 69 on Friday, bringing her total to 8-under 136 at the relocated Mountain Ridge Country Club. Jennifer Kupcho sits in second place at 5-under after matching Thitikul’s 69, while Brooke Matthews holds third place alone at 4-under following a 72.

Thitikul’s second round featured plenty of action after beginning play on the back nine. From holes 17 through 4, she recorded four birdies alongside two bogeys, then closed out her round with strong birdies on the par-5 sixth and eighth holes to reach 8-under.

“I didn’t (play) well when the wind really picking up in the beginning,” Thitikul explained. “I mean, luckily we don’t have much wind on the back nine after the rain came and then the wind just like shut down. Then we just lucky. If we got the breeze the front nine, I don’t think my number is going to be that low for sure.”

The defending champion, who captured her eighth LPGA victory in February on home soil in Thailand, said her coach advised maintaining her normal approach.

“Just prepare things the same routine,” she noted. “I mean, just let golf be golf and let me be me. … So I think it’s just maybe stick to that process that just another day at the office and then whatever it’s turn out to be that turn out to be, and then you figure it out.”

Kupcho, who has not recorded a top-10 result this season, positioned herself well with Friday’s performance. She came close to matching Thitikul’s pace after recording four birdies on her opening nine holes and adding another at the 13th to reach 7-under, but dropped shots at holes 14 and 17 during her closing stretch.

“Like 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, all of those hole pin placements were on the sides of a hill,” Kupcho observed after completing her morning round. “For the wind and the speed we’re playing the greens, I don’t know that they’re going to be playable this afternoon, to be quite honest. It’s a really hard golf course.”

The day’s lowest score was 4-under 68, achieved by just two competitors: France’s Celine Boutier, who advanced to fourth place alone at 3-under, and Thailand’s Arpichaya Yubol, who joined a seven-player group tied for fifth at 2-under.

Former major winner Boutier echoed the widespread view that the course presented significant challenges, with wind conditions adding complexity.

“I feel like because I was first off this morning, I was able to take advantage of the first few holes that were less windy and then it started picking up in the middle of my front nine,” Boutier said.

“Yeah, I’m definitely glad to be done right now because it’s picked up even more. And I feel like it’s a course where you have to be really strong from the tee to green, so I think you have to be a very complete game to be able to score well.”

First-round leader Andrea Lee, who opened with a 66, struggled significantly in round two with a 79 that dropped her to 1-over for the tournament.

Several prominent players face elimination with the cut line set at 3-over par, including South Korea’s Sei Young Kim (5-over), Lexi Thompson (5-over), Canada’s Brooke M. Henderson (5-over), Japan’s Nasa Hataoka (5-over after an 80), Thailand’s Ariya Jutanugarn (6-over following an 80), England’s Lottie Woad (13-over) and Michelle Wie West (18-over).

Wie West posted rounds of 82-80 in her first LPGA competition in three years as she prepares for next month’s U.S. Women’s Open.

FIFA revealed Friday its plans to conduct individual opening ceremonies in each of the three nations hosting the upcoming World Cup, marking an unprecedented approach for the international soccer tournament spanning Mexico, Canada, and the United States.

The historic tournament begins June 11 in Mexico City, featuring Grammy-winning Mexican pop group Mana alongside performers Alejandro Fernandez and Belinda, according to FIFA’s announcement on social media platform X.

Sources indicate that Toronto will host its ceremony on June 12 before Canada faces Bosnia and Herzegovina in group stage play, with Canadian artists Alanis Morissette, Michael Buble, and Alessia Cara taking the stage, joined by Los Angeles-based DJ Sanjoy, who is of Bangladeshi American heritage.

That same day in Los Angeles, pop superstar Katy Perry will anchor the U.S. opening ceremony before the American squad takes on Paraguay, with Atlanta rapper Future (Nayvadius Wilburn) also slated to perform, according to sources.

The 2026 tournament represents only the second instance of multiple nations jointly hosting the World Cup. The previous co-hosted event occurred in 2002 when South Korea and Japan shared hosting duties, though South Korea handled the sole opening ceremony at that time.

The Philadelphia 76ers welcomed back their All-Star center Joel Embiid for Friday night’s Game 3 matchup against the New York Knicks, after the big man was forced to sit out the second game of their Eastern Conference semifinal series due to injuries to his right hip and ankle.

The dominant center had previously sparked Philadelphia’s remarkable turnaround against Boston in the opening round, despite missing the series’ first three contests following appendix surgery on April 9. With Embiid back in the lineup, the 76ers captured all three remaining games against the Celtics, culminating in a Game 7 performance where he tallied 34 points, 12 rebounds and six assists.

In the current series opener, Embiid contributed 14 points during Philadelphia’s lopsided 137-98 defeat at Madison Square Garden, then was absent from the sidelines as his team suffered a closer 108-102 setback in the second contest, allowing New York to grab a commanding 2-0 series advantage.

The Knicks, however, will be without forward OG Anunoby, who injured his right hamstring during Game 2 after posting 24 points across 37 minutes of play. New York head coach Mike Brown confirmed Anunoby’s absence during his pre-game media session on Friday.

Throughout this playoff run, Anunoby has been a key contributor for the Knicks, posting impressive numbers of 21.4 points and 7.5 rebounds per game while connecting on an outstanding 61.9% of his field goal attempts.

English golfer Aaron Rai shot a 4-under-par 67 during Friday’s second round to capture a one-shot advantage heading into the weekend at the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic in South Carolina.

Rai stands among the few players in this alternate tournament – running opposite to this week’s Truist Championship – who has already secured a spot in next week’s PGA Championship. The tournament victor will receive automatic qualification for the major championship if they haven’t already earned their way in.

Beginning his round at the 10th tee, the English player managed just 1-under on his opening nine holes before catching fire on the front side. He recorded four birdies across his first seven holes on the front nine before closing with consecutive pars to reach 10-under 132 for the tournament.

Despite holding the highest world ranking among competitors at No. 42, Rai emphasized the importance of not taking anything for granted at Dunes Golf and Beach Club.

“Everyone starts at the same playing field on Thursday, and everyone who is in this field is good enough to win. No one has any rights to walk in and play well and compete,” Rai said. “Just try to approach it as I would any tournament. Prepare as well as I can and, yeah, just run through as many good routines as I can during the week.”

Trailing by a single shot at 9-under are Brandt Snedeker, who posted a bogey-free 66, and Mark Hubbard, who carded a 67. Snedeker’s round featured five birdies without a blemish, while Hubbard battled through an uneven front nine with three bogeys and three birdies before surging with four birdies on the back nine, including back-to-back birdies on holes 9-12.

“Overall just found something in my putting,” Hubbard said. “I wasn’t really feeling that great early with it. Then just kind of found a little setup cue that turned things around and gained some confidence from there.”

Kevin Roy (66) and South African Christiaan Bezuidenhout (67) complete the top five at 8-under par.

Scotland’s Martin Laird, who held the first-round lead, struggled to a 4-over 75 on Friday and dropped into a tie for 30th place at 3-under.

Four-time major champion Brooks Koepka, who played alongside Rai during both opening rounds, managed a 1-under second round and enters the weekend tied for 22nd at 4-under par.

Australian golfer Lucas Herbert delivered an outstanding second-round performance at LIV Golf Virginia on Friday, shooting a flawless 9-under 63 to build a commanding six-stroke lead at Trump National DC in Potomac Falls, Virginia.

Herbert’s exceptional round improved on his already impressive opening day by one stroke, putting him at 17-under par for the tournament. Spain’s Sergio Garcia sits in second place at 11-under after shooting a 67, while England’s Richard Bland claimed third position at 7-under following the day’s second-best round of 66.

The 30-year-old Australian carded nine birdies without a single mistake during his round. His most impressive stretch came between holes 6-12, where he recorded six birdies in seven holes, before closing out his day with back-to-back birdies on the final two holes.

“It was kind of one of those days — probably 36 holes, two of those days — of things that probably just come easy in some respects,” Herbert explained after his round. “To be honest, I probably tried to enjoy it a little bit out there because I was able to in the moment see that that was happening and kind of just be able to sit back and appreciate it a little bit and understand this is pretty not normal. You don’t know how many times as a golfer you’re going to get to experience that kind of feeling.”

Herbert, who has claimed victories on the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and Asian Tour, is still chasing his maiden LIV title in his third season with the breakaway league.

The tournament leader revealed he spent Thursday evening with his wife and her family, deliberately avoiding thoughts about his first-round advantage.

“It was kind of good to get away from the fact that I was sitting on a two-shot lead there and think about something else for a while,” Herbert noted. “I think we might be doing something pretty similar the way it worked out overnight.”

Herbert’s outstanding play has also propelled his all-Australian team, Ripper GC, to a six-shot lead in the team standings at 21-under par. The squad, which includes Marc Leishman, Elvis Smylie, and captain Cameron Smith, holds a comfortable margin over both Crushers GC and Cleeks Golf Club.

Garcia mounted a strong finish to his round, collecting birdies on holes 14, 16, 17, and 18. His late surge included impressive putts of 19 feet and 14 feet on the par-3 14th and 16th holes respectively.

“I felt like, if I could shoot 3 under, it would be a really nice round and stuff. I managed to shoot 5, and I’m still far away from the lead,” Garcia commented. “Yeah, it was a good day. Obviously tricky with the wind and everything and the greens getting firmer, but very, very happy with the way I handled it.”

Bland, at 53 years old, is also pursuing his first LIV championship. He started strong with three birdies in his opening five holes, then added three more on his back nine while avoiding any bogeys.

The veteran English golfer discussed his approaching retirement plans, indicating his competitive days are numbered.

“I kind of earmarked next year would probably be my last year of playing full-time, as I do right now. Then going forward, really kind of scattered, but play where I want to play… So, yeah, semi-retirement, it’s getting a lot nearer — and that’s fine. I’m OK with that. I’ve had one helluva ride out here and the best decision I ever made.”

Notable players Bryson DeChambeau and Spain’s Jon Rahm both struggled with 70s on Friday, leaving them tied for seventh at 5-under par as they prepare for next week’s PGA Championship.

PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia 76ers star center Joel Embiid was back on the court Friday night for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, returning after sitting out the second matchup due to a sprained right ankle and hip soreness.

The All-Star big man had a difficult outing in the series opener, where New York dominated with a 137-98 victory. Embiid managed only 14 points while shooting poorly at 3-of-11 from the field before coaches pulled the starting lineup as the contest became a rout.

Despite being marked as probable for that first game, the Knicks exploited Embiid’s limited movement throughout the night, consistently finding open scoring opportunities.

While many anticipated his participation in the second game, team officials made the decision to hold him out just hours before tipoff.

The veteran center underwent an appendectomy during the final stretch of the regular season. He made his comeback in the fourth game of Philadelphia’s opening playoff round against Boston, playing a crucial role as the 76ers mounted a historic comeback from a 3-1 series deficit to knock out the Celtics.

Ben Crane carded eight birdies during Friday’s opening round to grab the lead at the Insperity Invitational at The Woodlands Country Club in Texas.

The veteran golfer’s 7-under-par 65 put him one stroke ahead of a group including Shane Bertsch, Boo Weekley, Richard Green of Australia, and Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee.

Sitting two shots behind Crane at 5-under 67 were New Zealand’s Steven Alker, South Africa’s Ernie Els, Slovakia’s Rory Sabbatini, and South Korean players Charlie Wi and Y.E. Yang.

The five-time PGA Tour winner celebrated his 50th birthday in March and continues his quest for a maiden Champions Tour victory. Crane came close with a second-place finish at last month’s Senior PGA Championship.

Crane’s hot start included six birdies over his opening 10 holes before his round slowed down. Following his only dropped shot at the par-3 14th hole, where his tee shot missed the green, Crane bounced back with birdies on the following two holes, capping it off with a long putt at the par-3 16th.

Bertsch, 56, captured his lone Champions Tour title in 2020 and hopes to return to victory lane. The golfer entered this week’s tournament as the second alternate.

“I’ve been in this position this year, unfortunately, just because of, you know, I’m not the greatest player last year, so I’ve been hanging around as first alternate a couple weeks,” Bertsch said. “… You could have a chance to get in and be out all of a sudden if you’re not around (at the course). So it’s kind of nerve-wracking. But it was nice to get in.”

Starting on the back nine, Bertsch posted four birdies against one bogey before reaching the green in two shots on the par-5 first hole for an eagle that boosted his position. He closed with another birdie at the par-5 sixth hole.

Defending champion Stewart Cink, who has won the season’s first two major championships, posted an opening-round 4-under 68.

South Korean golfer Sungjae Im captured the halfway lead at the Truist Championship on Friday, carding three back-nine birdies during his round at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte.

Im’s consistent 69 brought him to 9-under 133 for the tournament, giving him a narrow one-stroke advantage over England’s Tommy Fleetwood, who recorded his second consecutive 67. Justin Thomas and England’s Alex Fitzpatrick share third place at 7-under after both shot 68s on Friday.

The South Korean professional is chasing what would be the most significant triumph of his career. While Im has captured two PGA Tour victories, his last came in October 2021, though he did claim a win on the Korean Tour earlier this year.

Thursday’s opening round of the $20 million signature event faced weather delays, forcing 20 players to finish their first rounds Friday morning. Im had just recorded an eagle to reach 7-under when play was suspended, completing his opening round with two pars on Friday.

Starting his second round, Im recorded nine consecutive pars before making birdie on the 10th hole and dropping a shot at the 12th. He drew even with then-leader Matt McCarty at 8-under by birdieing the short par-4 14th hole, then moved to 9-under with a skillfully executed birdie on the par-5 15th.

McCarty, who established the first-round lead with a 63, struggled in his second round and was 2-over with one hole remaining late Friday.

Alex Fitzpatrick holds a nine-shot advantage over his older brother Matt Fitzpatrick, who ranks third in the world but shot 70 on Friday to sit at 2-over for the tournament. The younger Fitzpatrick earned his PGA Tour credentials and entry into remaining signature events after he and his brother captured the Zurich Classic of New Orleans team competition last month.

PHILADELPHIA — New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby will miss Friday night’s Game 3 matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers due to a right hamstring strain, though the injury doesn’t appear to be severe and he’s being evaluated daily for the Eastern Conference semifinals.

The injury occurred during the final moments of Game 2, where Anunoby had contributed 24 points to his team’s effort.

New York currently leads the best-of-seven playoff series 2-0.

During Wednesday’s contest, Anunoby was performing well before he appeared to experience leg discomfort and signaled to exit the game. He departed for the locker room and didn’t rejoin his teammates on the sideline before New York secured their 108-102 win.

Throughout this postseason, Anunoby has been averaging 21.4 points per contest while maintaining impressive shooting percentages of 61.9% from the floor and 53.8% beyond the three-point arc.

The 6-foot-7 player, regarded as New York’s premier defensive specialist, previously dealt with a hamstring issue two seasons ago during the second round when the Knicks held a 2-0 advantage over Indiana. That injury forced him to sit out four consecutive games, and he managed only limited minutes in Game 7 as Indiana mounted a comeback to claim the series.

DALLAS — The Dallas Mavericks announced Friday they have selected Mike Schmitz as their new general manager, bringing the Portland Trail Blazers’ assistant GM into the role just three days following the appointment of Masai Ujiri as team president and alternate governor.

Schmitz now assumes the position previously occupied by Nico Harrison, who was dismissed in November. Harrison’s firing came nine months after he orchestrated the trade sending Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers, a decision that proved disastrous for the franchise.

According to the team’s announcement, Schmitz will be responsible for supervising daily operations and ensuring strategic coordination within the basketball operations department.

The hiring leaves questions unanswered regarding the future of Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi, who were appointed as co-interim general managers following Harrison’s departure. The duo successfully completed the trade sending Anthony Davis, who was the primary asset obtained in the Doncic transaction, to Washington.

Both Schmitz and Ujiri, who was born in Nigeria, share connections to African basketball development. Schmitz has contributed to youth basketball programs in Ujiri’s native country and has worked as an assistant coach for Uganda’s national team.

Before joining Portland in 2022, Schmitz worked for five years analyzing draft prospects at ESPN.

“I have tremendous respect for Masai, this ownership group and the vision they have for the future of the franchise,” Schmitz said. “I’m excited to get to work alongside the talented people already in place and help build a championship-caliber organization.”

The National Football League and its officials union have successfully negotiated a seven-year labor agreement, preventing any disruption to game officiating through the 2032 season. The NFL Referees Association deal eliminates the need for replacement officials that the league had begun preparing last month when talks stalled. This agreement helps avoid a repeat of the 2012 situation when a 110-day lockout forced the use of substitute referees.

In New York, the Jets have secured running back Breece Hall with a three-year extension valued at $45.75 million, according to a source familiar with the negotiations. The Friday agreement makes Hall the NFL’s third-highest compensated running back at $15.25 million annually. The Jets had previously placed the franchise tag on Hall before finalizing this new deal. Hall achieved a career-best 1,065 rushing yards last season, though he missed the final game due to a knee injury. The source requested anonymity since the Jets have not officially announced the extension.

The Philadelphia 76ers are giving away 500 tickets for each remaining home playoff game in the second round to community organizations. This strategy aims to maintain a strong home crowd presence and counter the influx of New York Knicks supporters. The team had earlier attempted to restrict ticket sales through Ticketmaster to Philadelphia-area residents only. Friday’s Game 3 featured 250 healthcare workers and 250 local teachers as guests, while Sunday’s Game 4 will host 500 mothers and children from various community groups. With the Knicks holding a 2-0 series advantage, Joel Embiid has appealed to 76ers fans to keep their tickets rather than selling to opposing supporters.

This year’s Major League Baseball newcomers are demonstrating exceptional performance in the season’s opening weeks. Standout rookie hitters including Konnor Griffin, Kevin McGonigle, and JJ Wetherholt have excelled during the first six weeks of play. Young pitchers Nolan McLean and Parker Messick have also shown promise among the primarily offensive-minded rookie standouts. Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo noted that today’s young players arrive better equipped for major league competition than previous generations.

Miami’s second-ranked pitching prospect Robby Snelling is preparing for his major league debut against the Washington Nationals. The left-handed pitcher was already signing autographs for young Marlins supporters a day before his scheduled first start. Snelling was promoted this week from Triple-A Jacksonville after being acquired from San Diego in 2024 as part of a trade package that sent Tanner Scott and Bryan Hoeing to the Padres. The Padres originally selected Snelling 39th overall in the 2022 amateur draft.

Tennis veteran Novak Djokovic suffered an upset loss to Croatian qualifier Dino Prizmic at the Italian Open in Rome. The 20-year-old Prizmic defeated the 24-time Grand Slam winner 2-6, 6-2, 6-4, clinching victory with an ace on match point. This marked Djokovic’s return after a two-month absence due to a right shoulder injury, his first competition since falling to Jack Draper in Indian Wells during March. The 38-year-old Serbian player wore visible shoulder taping that became apparent when he changed shirts between sets.

Kansas City Chiefs assistant coach Dave Merritt has seen his misdemeanor domestic battery charges dismissed without prejudice. The dismissal comes less than three weeks after the 54-year-old Merritt pleaded not guilty and was released from Johnson County, Kansas jail. Merritt has served with the Chiefs since 2019 and contributed to five Super Bowl victories, including his previous tenure with the Giants. He took part in the Chiefs’ rookie minicamp last weekend. Head coach Andy Reid stated Saturday that Merritt has been transparent about the situation and stressed allowing law enforcement to handle the matter.

Formula 1 officials have approved engine modifications for the 2027 season that will boost internal combustion power output. The sport began this year with significant changes including equal power distribution between traditional engines and onboard battery systems. However, drivers immediately voiced concerns about the new configuration. The governing FIA conducted an online meeting Friday with teams and F1 representatives, reaching agreement in principle on the upcoming changes.

Lionel Messi’s remarkable journey toward a potential sixth World Cup appearance traces back to the Grandoli youth club in Rosario, Argentina. The 38-year-old star’s career began in 1992 when his grandmother brought 5-year-old Lionel to watch his older brother compete for the Grandoli team in Argentina’s third-largest city. The story of how young Messi ended up playing that day has become legendary at the club, whose members will be watching their former player on soccer’s grandest stage.

Palestinian runner Mohamad Al-Assi marked a personal milestone by finishing second in a West Bank marathon, just six months after resuming training following his release from Israeli detention. The 27-year-old from Dheisheh refugee camp was among thousands who participated in Friday’s race through the Bethlehem area, including sections along the barrier separating Israel from the occupied West Bank. Al-Assi had spent 32 months in Israeli custody before returning to competitive running. Race organizers emphasized how the marathon showcases the challenges facing the territory, where military checkpoints disrupt daily travel and expanding Israeli settlements continue claiming land.

Saturday’s WNBA season opener brings together the defending champion Las Vegas Aces and the Phoenix Mercury in a highly anticipated rematch of last year’s championship series.

The Aces enter the 2026 season having captured their third title in four years, powered by superstar A’ja Wilson, who just completed her record-breaking fourth MVP season.

Wilson made history by overtaking WNBA legends Lisa Leslie, Sheryl Swoopes and Lauren Jackson for most MVP awards in league history. This season, she has the opportunity to become the first player to earn the honor three years in a row.

As the WNBA welcomes an influx of emerging talent, Wilson begins her ninth professional season determined to maintain her position as the league’s premier player, according to her comments to the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

“I like proving people wrong,” Wilson said. “I like to let people just burn because me and my team are doing great, or they never could have imagined it could have been me in this situation or my team in this situation.”

Wilson’s 2025 campaign featured averages of 23.4 points and 10.2 rebounds per game, along with a career-high 3.1 assists. She earned Finals MVP honors after a dominant postseason where she scored 26.8 points per game — the highest mark across her seven playoff appearances — while adding 10 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2.5 blocks and 2.1 steals.

The Aces completed a four-game championship series sweep over Phoenix, with Wilson delivering back-to-back performances of 34 and 31 points in the final two contests, ultimately ending the Mercury’s unexpected playoff journey.

Phoenix surprised many by reaching the Finals as the fourth seed, defeating top-seeded Minnesota 3-1 in the semifinals. Ten-year veteran Kahleah Copper contributed 17.8 points per game throughout the postseason.

Veteran leadership proved crucial for the Mercury, as 18-year league veteran DeWanna Bonner recorded two double-doubles in the Finals, while 12-year veteran Alyssa Thomas notched three Finals double-doubles and a triple-double in the series finale.

Though the experienced trio helped Phoenix reach the championship round, Thomas acknowledged during Wednesday’s media day that the playoff experience served as valuable education for the team’s younger players.

“We had a lot of people on our team who were … first time going through playoffs,” Thomas said. “I don’t think you can prepare people enough for how hard playoffs is.”

The Mercury’s young core includes Monique Akoa Makani, who started throughout her rookie campaign last season.

Makani and Phoenix’s backcourt will face the challenge of containing Las Vegas’ talented perimeter group featuring Jackie Young, Chelsea Gray, Jewell Loyd and new addition Chennedy Carter.

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — The New York Jets have locked up their offensive centerpiece after reaching a lucrative contract extension with star running back Breece Hall on Friday.

Hall and the organization finalized a three-year deal valued at $45.75 million, a source with knowledge of the negotiations confirmed to The Associated Press. The franchise had previously placed the franchise tag on Hall, and his new agreement averaging $15.25 million annually positions him as the NFL’s third-highest compensated running back.

The source requested anonymity since the Jets have not yet made an official announcement regarding the extension.

“Cried for the first time since I tore my ACL,” Hall shared on X, referencing his devastating rookie season injury in 2022. “This day really hit different for me man.”

Hall’s yearly earnings trail only Philadelphia’s Saquon Barkley at $20.6 million and San Francisco’s Christian McCaffrey at $19 million in terms of average annual value. His compensation edges out Baltimore’s Derrick Henry, who earns $15 million per season.

The 24-year-old back achieved a personal milestone last season, accumulating 1,065 rushing yards despite sitting out the final contest due to a knee issue. This performance marked the first time a Jets player had surpassed 1,000 rushing yards in a single campaign since Chris Ivory accomplished the feat in 2015. Hall has now recorded three consecutive seasons with at least 1,000 yards from scrimmage, joining just five other players in franchise history to reach this benchmark.

Selected in the second round of the 2022 draft from Iowa State, Hall will celebrate his 25th birthday on May 31. Unlike first-round teammates Sauce Gardner and Garrett Wilson, who received extensions last offseason, Hall’s future with the team remained uncertain. Trade speculation surrounded the dynamic back leading up to last year’s deadline.

However, head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey consistently expressed their desire to retain Hall’s services.

“He’s a playmaker and we want to keep playmakers around on both sides of the ball,” Mougey stated during February’s NFL combine. “He’s a proven playmaker and a good player, a good person, so want to find a way to keep Breece around.”

The Jets initially envisioned a three-back rotation featuring Hall alongside Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis last season. However, Allen’s knee injury that placed him on injured reserve left Davis as Hall’s primary backup.

With offensive coordinator Frank Reich and quarterback Geno Smith bringing new leadership to the unit, New York opted to franchise tag Hall, providing additional time for contract negotiations during the offseason.

The deadline for reaching an agreement was July 15, after which Hall would have been required to play under the one-year franchise tag worth $14.3 million.

Following the draft two weeks prior, Mougey suggested contract discussions would intensify. The organization completed the deal several weeks before voluntary organized team activities commence and well ahead of their mandatory minicamp.

New York’s restructured offense anticipates improved production this season after struggling with Smith at quarterback. The unit should benefit from Wilson’s return to full health following a knee injury that limited him to seven games, plus the addition of rookie tight end Kenyon Sadiq and wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr., both first-round selections.

Hall’s versatility as both a runner and receiver made securing his services beyond this season a top organizational priority for the Jets.

New York Jets running back Breece Hall has secured his financial future with a substantial three-year contract extension valued at $45.75 million, multiple sources confirmed Friday.

The lucrative agreement pays Hall an average of $15.25 million per year, positioning him as the NFL’s third-highest compensated running back. Only Philadelphia’s Saquon Barkley ($20.6 million annually) and San Francisco’s Christian McCaffrey ($19 million per year) earn more at the position.

Hall, who will celebrate his 25th birthday on May 31, confirmed the news on social media platform X by sharing the announcement and adding: “Shoutout everyone in my corner. Lot of work left to do. God Bless.”

The contract resolution comes after the Jets placed a non-exclusive franchise tag on Hall in early March, though team officials expressed their preference for negotiating a long-term deal.

Under the franchise tag terms, Hall would have earned a guaranteed $14.293 million for 2026 while retaining the ability to negotiate with other franchises. A transition tag would have provided $11.323 million for one season but potentially made him more appealing to competing teams.

“Ideally, we’d find a way to get a deal done and keep Breece around,” Jets General Manager Darren Mougey stated during the NFL Scouting Combine in late February. “I think I’ve said that for the last year since I’ve got here. Breece is a good player. We want to find a way to keep him around.”

Since New York selected him in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft from Iowa State, Hall has accumulated 3,398 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns across four seasons.

The 2025 campaign marked a career milestone when Hall reached 1,065 rushing yards, making him the first Jets player to eclipse 1,000 rushing yards since Chris Ivory accomplished the feat in 2015.

Hall’s versatility extends beyond rushing, as he has contributed 188 catches for 1,642 receiving yards and nine touchdowns through 56 NFL appearances, including 50 starts.

PHOENIX (AP) — Twenty-year-old Pittsburgh Pirates sensation Konnor Griffin approached home plate Tuesday evening facing the Arizona Diamondbacks and launched a scorching 110.1 mph line drive that ricocheted off Chase Field’s center field wall, allowing him to coast into second base with a double.

Arizona manager Torey Lovullo watched in amazement from the dugout.

“Twenty years old and driving the ball off the center field wall,” Lovullo remarked. “Let’s go back to being 20 years old. I was just getting hair under my armpits, and this guy’s in a big-league baseball game. It’s impressive.”

Griffin — who celebrated his 20th birthday just weeks ago — represents a Major League Baseball freshman class that has delivered immediate results as spring transitions into May. His current statistics include a .256 batting average, two home runs, 16 runs batted in, and a perfect 8-for-8 stolen base record, all while excelling defensively at shortstop for Pittsburgh’s 21-17 squad.

The Pirates’ confidence in Griffin became evident when they offered him a nine-year, $140 million contract in April.

Lovullo, who has managed Arizona for a decade, observes a significant improvement in young players’ preparedness upon reaching the majors.

Statistical analysis supports this observation. According to Wins Above Replacement measurements, three of the top five most effective rookie batting classes since 1950 have emerged within the last four seasons: 2023 (67.5 WAR), 2022 (53.7), and 2024 (49). Current projections suggest this year’s group is tracking toward 47 WAR, which would place them fifth historically.

The 2025 rookie class, while less deep overall, still produced players capable of rapid major league success. Nick Kurtz accumulated only 210 minor league at-bats before joining Oakland, then posted a .290 average with 36 home runs and 86 RBIs across 117 games to capture American League Rookie of the Year honors.

“Everything is fast-forwarded now, everything’s on speed dial, everything happens really quick,” Lovullo explained. “These kids are developing. It’s the same message I send to our group about player development. We aren’t going to be the L.A. Dodgers or the Padres. Spots won’t be filled by Player ‘X’ coming off of free agency. Spots will be filled by someone in this clubhouse.”

Additional standout rookies have emerged throughout the season’s opening six weeks:

This 21-year-old secured his roster spot through excellent spring training performance and continues delivering results with a .299 batting average, two homers, 16 RBIs and an .845 OPS while alternating between shortstop and third base. He has arguably been Detroit’s top performer on an otherwise disappointing team, prompting the organization to secure him with an eight-year, $150 million deal in April.

Selected seventh overall in the 2024 draft from West Virginia, this highly-touted prospect has connected for seven home runs with a surprisingly competitive Cardinals squad in the National League Central. His performance suggests long-term stability in St. Louis.

DeLauter achieved the rare distinction of making his major league debut during last season’s playoffs, becoming one of few players in baseball history to receive their first call-up during postseason play. This spring has validated Cleveland’s decision to promote him for those high-pressure situations, as he maintains a .306 average with six homers and 23 RBIs.

The experienced Japanese power hitter has translated his success immediately to American baseball, smashing 14 home runs in just 37 contests. While strikeouts remain an issue and consistent batting averages may prove elusive, his power potential is undeniable at age 26.

At 29, this player is the oldest among featured rookies and initially struggled adapting from Japanese baseball. Recent weeks have shown improvement, bringing his numbers to .246 with 10 homers and 23 RBIs.

After making a positive impression during limited action last season, this 22-year-old has maintained his hitting success in expanded opportunities this spring. Operating primarily at first base, he shows a .245 average with 10 home runs and 30 RBIs.

While New York has disappointed overall, McLean provides a rare bright spot. Following an impressive eight-start introduction last season, the 24-year-old has continued his strong pitching in 2026 with a 2.97 ERA and 51 strikeouts across 39 1/3 innings through seven starts.

The former Florida State standout ranks among the American League’s top pitchers this season, posting a 3-1 record with a 2.40 ERA through seven outings. This left-handed pitcher has been instrumental in Cleveland’s current position atop the AL Central standings.

The National Football League has successfully avoided potential chaos for the upcoming 2026 season after finalizing a seven-year collective bargaining agreement with the NFL Referees Association on Friday. The new contract extends through the 2032 season.

Union members and the NFLRA board of directors approved the new collective bargaining agreement during a Thursday vote. The previous contract was scheduled to end on May 31.

Specific terms of the agreement have not been disclosed, though the NFL stated the new deal addresses “economics, performance and accountability.”

“This agreement is a testament to the joint commitment of the league and union to invest in and improve officiating,” stated Troy Vincent, NFL executive vice president of football operations. “It also speaks to the game officials’ relentless pursuit of improvement and officiating excellence. We look forward to working together for the betterment of the game.”

The successful negotiations eliminate the possibility of using substitute referees when the 2026 season kicks off September 9, with the Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks hosting the season opener.

The league previously experienced significant controversy with replacement officials during a 2012 matchup between Green Bay and Seattle. In that game, substitute referees awarded Seattle a victory on a final-play touchdown despite what appeared to be simultaneous possession by both teams. The NFL subsequently acknowledged missing a pass interference call against Seattle that should have resulted in a Green Bay win.

Following two weeks of replacement officials in 2012, the league resolved its referee lockout just two days after the controversial Packers-Seahawks contest.

“We see this new CBA as a partnership with the league that benefits our membership but also seeks to make our game better,” commented NFLRA president Carl Cheffers on Friday. “It is good to get these negotiations behind us so we can focus on preparing for the 2026 season.”

The path to this agreement involved extended discussions between both parties.

After two years of negotiations resulted in a deadlock last winter, the NFL had begun preparing for the possibility of using replacement referees for the 2026 season. Reports indicated the league started identifying potential substitutes from lower-level college officiating ranks and planned to begin their training this month.

Both the NFL Players Association and the referees union expressed safety concerns regarding the use of replacement officials.

Just one month ago, league insiders informed ESPN that team owners were “alarmed” by the status of negotiations with the NFLRA. One source suggested it would require “an act of God” to resolve the financial disagreements between the parties before the contract expired.

The league had previously proposed a six-year contract featuring an average annual salary increase of 6.45%, according to ESPN. The typical NFL official earned $385,000 during the 2025 season.

The National Football League and its referees union reached a labor agreement on Friday that prevents a potential work stoppage and eliminates the need for substitute officials through the 2032 season.

The seven-year contract received approval from the NFL Referees Association’s executive board and was confirmed through a membership vote.

“We see this new CBA as a partnership with the league that benefits our membership but also seeks to make our game better. It is good to get these negotiations behind us so we can focus on preparing for the 2026 season,” union President Carl Cheffers said.

Contract talks between the league and referees union started during summer 2024, with the previous agreement scheduled to end on May 31.

Last month, the NFL started recruiting substitute officials as contract discussions stalled, but those backup plans are no longer needed.

Both organizations released a joint statement explaining the contract addresses multiple areas including financial terms, job performance standards, and accountability measures.

“This agreement is a testament to the joint commitment of the league and union to invest in and improve officiating,” said Troy Vincent, NFL executive vice president of football operations. “It also speaks to the game officials’ relentless pursuit of improvement and officiating excellence. We look forward to working together for the betterment of the game.”

Specific contract details remain confidential.

However, sources familiar with negotiations told The Associated Press in March that the NFL had proposed a 6.45% yearly increase in referee pay over a six-year contract.

Back in 2012, contract negotiations broke down, leading to a 110-day lockout that forced the league to use substitute referees.

The replacement officials made numerous high-profile blunders, most notably the infamous “Fail Mary” incident when Russell Wilson threw a last-second touchdown pass to Golden Tate, giving Seattle a Monday night victory over Green Bay. Tate committed offensive pass interference that went uncalled and appeared to steal the ball from a Packers defender, yet officials still awarded him the touchdown catch despite conflicting calls on the field.

The league also deployed replacement officials during one preseason week and the 2001 season opener before resolving that labor dispute shortly after September 11th, allowing regular officials to return when play resumed after a one-week hiatus. That situation produced fewer notable officiating errors.

MIAMI — Before even throwing his first major league pitch, Robby Snelling found himself signing autographs for eager Miami Marlins fans a full day ahead of his anticipated debut.

The organization is hoping this scene becomes commonplace for their second-ranked pitching prospect, who earned a promotion from Triple-A Jacksonville this week to start Friday’s game against the Washington Nationals.

“It’s pretty surreal,” Snelling shared from Miami’s clubhouse Thursday, moments before heading to the dugout where supporters called out for his autograph. “Still trying to just kind of soak it in and get acclimated with all the guys again that I was around in spring and really take it all in and not let the moment get too big.”

The southpaw pitcher, who was chosen 39th overall by San Diego in the 2022 amateur draft, came to Miami as part of a 2024 trade that sent relievers Tanner Scott and Bryan Hoeing to the Padres.

Despite showing promise during spring training, Snelling failed to secure a spot on the Marlins’ opening day 40-man roster. He described the setback as both disappointing and inspiring.

“I was upset and not necessarily at anybody in general,” Snelling explained. “Just being told that you’re not going to get to do what you really had wanted to do as early as you wanted to do is a tough pill to swallow.

“But then you kind of come back down to earth and realize, ‘Alright, what do I need to do to get to that point where I want to be?’”

His response involved focusing on reducing his walk totals, particularly by throwing more first-pitch strikes. Through six outings with Triple-A Jacksonville this year, Snelling compiled a 3-1 record alongside the second-lowest ERA (1.86) among qualified hurlers. He issued more than three walks in just two of those six appearances.

“It’s exciting because Robby’s a great competitor,” commented Marlins skipper Clayton McCullough. “He’s worked really hard. He’s performing in a manner that he’s very deserving of this opportunity.”

Snelling’s opportunity arose when the team designated struggling starter Chris Paddack for assignment on Tuesday.

The veteran Paddack, 30, had signed a one-year, $4 million contract with Miami during the offseason with expectations of filling a back-end rotation role. However, Paddack faltered through seven starts, recording an 0-5 mark with a 7.63 ERA while lasting six innings just once.

While Miami had other veteran alternatives available, including southpaw Braxton Garrett, Snelling’s impressive recent work convinced the organization he had earned the chance.

“Coming into it we were certainly very high on Robby,” McCullough noted. “He performed incredibly well last year. This spring, he came into it in competition potentially for a spot in our rotation. Robby’s done well down there and continued to perform.”

Following the Jumbo Shrimp’s walk-off victory Wednesday, Snelling received word of his call-up. Triple-A manager David Carpenter summoned him to his office afterward, commending his concentration throughout the week despite uncertainty about whether his big league opportunity would materialize.

“I was like, ‘Man, it’s really hard to keep my sanity knowing that potentially it was an option for me to go up,’” Snelling remembered telling Carpenter, who responded with a casual inquiry.

“He’s like, ‘Yeah, you’re still good to go on Friday right?’” Carpenter said, referring to Snelling’s scheduled Triple-A start. “I was like, ‘Yeah.’ And he goes, ‘Well, you’re going to be throwing in Miami.’”

Snelling characterized the recent days as a reunion with teammates he bonded with during spring training, including catcher Joe Mack, another top prospect who also received a promotion this week. Mack crossed home plate with the game-winning run on a throwing mistake during Thursday’s ninth-inning victory over Baltimore.

The experience has also given Snelling appreciation for his path to the majors.

“It was always fun competing with those guys (in the minors),” he reflected. “It didn’t really matter where I was in my mind. Obviously this is the goal — being up here and staying up here is the goal.”

NEW YORK — New York Yankees pitcher Carlos Rodón reflected on the severity of his elbow problems from the previous season.

“I couldn’t really bend my arm. I couldn’t button a shirt,” the left-handed pitcher explained. “I couldn’t scratch my face. I couldn’t take a drink of water. … I could definitely never comb my hair.”

After seven months of recovery following elbow surgery, the 33-year-old athlete is scheduled to take the mound this Sunday when the Yankees face the Milwaukee Brewers. Though he’s feeling significantly better, Rodón acknowledges his arm isn’t what it was when he first entered the majors with Chicago a decade ago.

“That’s almost a virgin arm then,” he joked.

Throughout his 11 seasons in Major League Baseball, Rodón has compiled a 93-72 record with a 3.73 ERA. Since joining the Yankees on a six-year, $162 million deal in December 2023, he’s posted a 37-26 record.

Despite his arm troubles, Rodón managed an 18-9 record with a 3.09 ERA during last season. His four-seam fastball speed, which averaged 95.3 mph during his initial Yankees campaign, decreased to 94.4 mph in the first half of last year before falling further to 93.8 mph in the season’s latter half.

“He was great last year. So, just had to do it a different way. He didn’t have the range of motion,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone commented. “But I think if you talk to major league pitchers, especially ones that have done it for a while, you’re kind of always dealing with different stuff. So credit to him for being able to navigate it last year and with excellence.”

During his Division Series appearance against Toronto, Rodón’s fastball velocity fell to 93.4 mph as he surrendered six runs in just 2 1/3 innings.

“They were mending to him every day to get him to post,” pitching coach Matt Blake noted.

According to Rodón, his elbow problems developed gradually over three to four years. Despite the discomfort, he chose to push through last season rather than step away.

“Did it hurt? Sometimes sure, pitching, but I’d rather go out there and compete,” he stated. “I was throwing well, so I couldn’t just say, ‘Oh, I can’t pitch,’ but it was manageable.”

On October 15, Rodón underwent surgery to extract loose debris from his left elbow and smooth down a bone spur. His recovery hit a snag in late March when he experienced hamstring tightness while training at the Yankees’ Florida facility.

His rehabilitation process included two platelet-rich plasma treatments.

“The first one was early. I really remember it because it was vivid because my arm felt like it got ran over by a bus,” he recalled.

When spring training began, Rodón weighed in the mid-to-upper 250s, roughly 10 pounds over his ideal weight, though he expected to shed the extra pounds as he prepared for his comeback.

“I guess a happy offseason,” he said with a laugh. “I enjoy food.”

Starting April 24, Rodón completed three minor league rehabilitation starts, posting a 3.38 ERA with 16 strikeouts against three walks and three home runs across 16 innings.

His final rehab outing saw him throw 83 pitches, and he’ll face a similar limit when he takes on the Brewers.

“Not as daunting as Tommy John’s surgery,” said Rodón, who had UCL repair surgery in 2019. “You never want to go under the knife, for sure, but it’s good to be at the end of the road.”

Blake has observed improvements in Rodón’s pitching mechanics following the surgery.

“You can see there’s just a little more freedom of motion in the arm action,” he explained. “It looks a little easier. It’s not as much body creating the power.”

However, with his improved range of motion, Rodón must work to regain his pitching precision.

“I’m happy with the recovery,” he said. “So just keep going.”

Cleveland Browns linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah faces another full season away from football after the team officially placed him on the reserve/physically unable to perform list on Friday, marking his second consecutive year on the sidelines.

The 26-year-old defender has been recovering from a severe neck injury sustained on October 27, 2024, during a devastating collision with Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry. The impact occurred when Henry’s right shoulder struck Owusu-Koramoah’s head and neck region during a 10-yard rushing play, forcing medical personnel to cart the linebacker off the field.

Following the frightening incident, Owusu-Koramoah spent one night in the hospital before doctors cleared him for release the following day, confirming he retained full movement in all extremities.

Prior to suffering the injury, Owusu-Koramoah had been a cornerstone of Cleveland’s defense, starting every game through the first eight weeks of the 2024 season. His impressive performance included leading the team with 61 tackles while recording three sacks and 10 tackles for loss. The Browns demonstrated their confidence in the linebacker by signing him to a three-year contract extension valued at up to $39 million in August 2024.

Cleveland originally selected Owusu-Koramoah during the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft following his collegiate career at Notre Dame. His exceptional play earned him Pro Bowl recognition in 2023.

Throughout his professional career spanning 49 games with 41 starts, Owusu-Koramoah has compiled 308 total tackles, 40 tackles for loss, 14 quarterback hits, eight sacks, six forced fumbles, and three interceptions.

PHILADELPHIA — In an effort to maintain home-court advantage and prevent visiting fans from taking over their arena, the Philadelphia 76ers announced they will provide 500 free tickets to local community organizations for each of their remaining second-round playoff home games.

This latest move comes after the team’s earlier attempt to limit ticket sales through Ticketmaster by restricting purchases to buyers in the Philadelphia metropolitan region, aimed at keeping New York Knicks supporters away.

For Friday night’s Game 3, the organization will welcome 250 healthcare workers from the front lines at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Penn Medicine, along with 250 educators chosen through Learn Fresh, Breakthrough of Greater Philadelphia, and school districts in both Philadelphia and Camden, New Jersey.

Sunday’s Game 4 will see 500 mothers and children attending as guests, selected by organizations including the Uplift Center for Grieving Children, Boys and Girls Club of Philadelphia, and La Liga del Barrio.

Currently, the Knicks hold a 2-0 advantage in the best-of-seven playoff series.

During their first-round matchup two seasons ago, visiting New York fans flooded the Philadelphia venue, prompting Sixers star center Joel Embiid to make an urgent appeal to home supporters before this current series began.

“Last time we played the Knicks it felt like this was Madison Square Garden East. So we’re going to need the support,” Embiid said. “Don’t sell your tickets. This is bigger than you. We need you guys. The atmosphere we’ve had the last couple games in Philly, especially the last one pushing it to Game 7, I mean, we need all of it.”

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Following a disappointing 125-107 defeat to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday evening, the Los Angeles Lakers coaching staff and players expressed strong displeasure with the game’s officiating.

Head coach JJ Redick took issue with how referees handle calls involving LeBron James, while guard Austin Reaves felt he was treated inappropriately by the officiating crew. Multiple Lakers players approached the referees at center court following the contest, with Reaves directly addressing crew chief John Goble about an incident during a jump ball situation.

“At the end of the day, we’re grown men and I just didn’t feel like he needed to yell in my face like that,” Reaves said. “I told him that. I wasn’t disrespectful. I told him if I did that to him first, I would’ve gotten a tech. I feel like the only reason I didn’t get a tech was because he knew he was in the wrong. I felt disrespected.”

The foul trouble was evident for Los Angeles, with Reaves, Marcus Smart and Jaxson Hayes each accumulating five personal fouls. Oklahoma City attempted 26 free throws compared to 21 for the Lakers. The defeat puts Los Angeles in a challenging 2-0 series hole as they return home for Saturday’s Game 3.

Redick expressed frustration that a top-seeded team led by reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander appears to receive favorable treatment from officials.

“They’re hard enough to play,” Redick said. “They’re hard to play, and you’ve got to be able to just call them. They foul. They do foul.”

Despite his continued ability to drive to the basket at 41 years old, James has only attempted five free throws through the first two games of the series.

“LeBron has the worst whistle of any star player I’ve ever seen. The smaller guys, because they can be theatric, they typically draw more fouls, and the bigger players that are built like LeBron, it’s hard for them,” Redick said. “They get clobbered, and he got clobbered again tonight a bunch.”

Throughout the game, Lakers players showed visible frustration with both calls and non-calls from the officiating crew. Meanwhile, Thunder players maintained their composure, which Redick believes may work in their favor.

“I think some of the reason that they’re officiated the way they are is because they don’t show emotion,” Redick said. “And that’s a credit to them. I mean, they really take the emotion out of the game. They’re super tight-knit. They don’t complain to the officials, and maybe they’re the beneficiaries of that, I don’t know.”

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Prosecutors in Johnson County, Kansas have dropped domestic battery charges against Kansas City Chiefs assistant coach Dave Merritt without prejudice, just under three weeks after the veteran NFL coach pleaded not guilty and was freed from custody.

Merritt, 54, previously played linebacker in the National Football League before establishing himself as one of the top defensive backs coaches in professional football. Since joining Kansas City in 2019, and during his earlier tenure with the New York Giants, he has been part of coaching staffs that captured five Super Bowl championships.

The coach participated in Kansas City’s rookie minicamp this past weekend.

“Dave’s been very up-front with everything,” Chiefs head coach Andy Reid commented on Saturday. “We’re still going through that whole procedure. In this case, you always let the law enforcement part take care of itself and work its way out.”