Category: Sports

The Boston Red Sox have promoted left-handed pitcher Jake Bennett from Triple-A Worcester for his first major league appearance when they face the Houston Astros on Friday at home.

This roster adjustment follows Boston’s decision to place star pitcher Garrett Crochet on the 15-day injured list due to left shoulder inflammation earlier this week. Bennett fills the roster opening created when utility player Nate Eaton was sent down to the minors on Thursday.

The 25-year-old Bennett had his scheduled Tuesday start for Worcester canceled in preparation for this call-up.

“Big-time strike thrower,” Boston interim manager Chad Tracy said. “The velocity and the fastball has obviously ticked up. He was coming off an arm injury when he was with Washington. But when he’s sitting there 94 (mph) — another guy kind of like (Payton) Tolle, doesn’t throw as hard, but big guy that really gets down the mound with big extension. So he tends to get in on hitters, too, because the fastball plays up.”

Bennett was selected in the second round of the 2022 draft by the Washington Nationals and has compiled impressive numbers this season, posting a 2-1 record with a 0.86 ERA across five Worcester starts. In 21 innings pitched, he has recorded 16 strikeouts while issuing just three walks.

The Red Sox obtained Bennett in a December trade with Washington, sending pitching prospect Luis Perales in exchange. Bennett sat out the entire 2024 campaign while recovering from Tommy John surgery.

“He’s in the zone a lot,” Tracy said. “Does a good job of holding runners. He can go from a slide step, he can use a leg kick, lands all stuff. But he’s really, really good, at least down there has been, getting the ball in the strike zone. And he gets a lot of weak contact.”

Connor McDavid’s quest for his first Stanley Cup championship hit another roadblock this week, and the Edmonton Oilers captain now finds himself fielding questions about whether he’ll remain with the franchise long-term.

The player many consider hockey’s top talent saw his team eliminated in the opening round of the NHL playoffs Thursday when the Anaheim Ducks ended Edmonton’s season. This latest disappointment compounds the frustration from the previous two postseasons, where the Oilers reached the Stanley Cup final only to fall to the Florida Panthers both times.

At 29 years old, McDavid may need to evaluate his options with a playoff-struggling Edmonton organization as he continues chasing hockey’s ultimate prize.

McDavid’s contract extension announced last October begins with the 2026-27 campaign and runs through the 2027-28 season – a relatively brief commitment that some interpret as sending a message to team management.

Hockey Hall of Fame inductee Ray Bourque, a former NHL defenseman who famously requested a trade late in his career to pursue a championship, believes McDavid’s shorter deal carries significance.

“That told the Oilers that ‘I’m giving you three years, more or less’ (to) see if he could be surrounded possibly (by) a touch better (players) and to give him a real opportunity to win,” Bourque said Thursday at a Toronto charity event supporting Alzheimer’s research.

Bourque understands the challenge of capturing a Stanley Cup title. The longtime Boston Bruins captain sought a trade to a championship contender after suffering through two Cup final defeats, ultimately claiming the trophy with Colorado in 2001 at age 40.

“For the longest time, you have a great career and all that, but it seemed like there was something missing,” he reflected on his decision to leave Boston.

Since Edmonton selected him first overall in the 2015 NHL Draft, McDavid has remained with the organization throughout his professional career. His exceptional speed and remarkable talent have built a Hall of Fame-caliber resume.

Beyond numerous individual NHL honors, McDavid became the fourth-fastest player in league history to achieve 1,000 career points. He currently ranks second on Edmonton’s all-time scoring list, trailing only hockey legend Wayne Gretzky.

These accomplishments establish McDavid as the world’s premier player according to many observers, including three-time Stanley Cup champion and Hall of Fame member Chris Chelios. However, Chelios agrees with Bourque regarding a player’s ultimate desire to have their name engraved on what he considers professional sports’ most difficult trophy to earn.

“Amazing skill,” Chelios said of McDavid. “But he’d probably trade all those points right now for a Stanley Cup in a minute.”

Though Bourque thinks the Oilers captain still has reasonable prospects for winning with Edmonton, he wouldn’t be surprised if McDavid begins considering his personal legacy and pursuing his championship dreams with another organization.

“For him, it’s gonna be the only thing left for him to accomplish,” Bourque explained. “He’s done pretty much everything so far, and then when you’re at that point, it’s about winning a Cup and putting yourself in a situation that you have a chance.”

BOSTON — What seemed like a smooth path to the NBA playoffs’ second round for Boston has turned into a potential disaster, as the Philadelphia 76ers have forced a decisive seventh game after the Celtics dominated with a commanding 32-point victory on the road in Game 4.

Philadelphia’s consecutive dominant performances in Games 5 and 6 have pushed Boston — previously viewed as a top contender to represent the Eastern Conference — to the edge of a stunning downfall.

Should the second-seeded Celtics fall in Saturday night’s winner-take-all contest, it would mark their quickest playoff departure since the 2020-21 campaign.

Boston may face this challenge while managing concerns about star player Jayson Tatum, who temporarily exited Game 6 during the third quarter for treatment of what appeared to be a left calf problem. This comes just 22 games after Tatum’s return from the torn right Achilles tendon that sidelined him during last season’s playoffs.

The Celtics organization has minimized concerns about the situation, with Tatum describing his leg as feeling only “a little stiff” following the game. He explained that after a brief evaluation and some time on an exercise bike, he remained on the bench because the contest was already decided and the starting lineup had been removed.

Head coach Joe Mazzulla dismissed injury concerns entirely and reinforced that position during Friday’s conference call.

“He’ll play,” Mazzulla stated.

However, Philadelphia’s track record in elimination games doesn’t favor the 76ers.

The Flyers’ recent NHL playoff appearance highlighted that they remain the sole Philadelphia franchise to capture a Game 7 since defeating Boston in the 2010 Eastern Conference semifinal.

Following that victory, the 76ers suffered Game 7 defeats in 2012, 2019, 2021, and 2023; the Flyers fell short in similar situations in 2014 and 2020; while the Phillies lost Game 7 of the NLCS in 2023.

The Phillies also suffered elimination in a decisive Game 5 during the 2011 playoffs.

Boston has historically dominated this playoff rivalry, capturing the previous six series matchups. Philadelphia’s last playoff series victory over the Celtics came during the 1982 Eastern Conference semifinals.

“I’ve been playing these guys for so long,” 76ers star Joel Embiid commented. “I’m tired of losing to them. We have a chance to accomplish something special.”

Game 7 is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. EDT on NBC and Peacock, with the series deadlocked at 3-3. Boston enters as 7.5-point favorites.

The Celtics hold a 27-10 all-time record in Game 7 situations, while the 76ers stand at 6-12 in such contests and haven’t won one since 2001. This marks the ninth Game 7 between these organizations, with Boston holding a 6-2 advantage in previous decisive games. Philadelphia joins 37 teams in league history to force a Game 7 after falling behind 3-1, though only 13 have completed the comeback. For Boston to prevent Philadelphia from becoming the 14th, their offensive efficiency must return. The 76ers have limited the NBA’s second-ranked regular season offense to under 100 points in consecutive games. Boston shot a combined 30.5% from three-point range across those contests, making 11 attempts in each game despite leading the league with an average of 16 three-pointers per game during the regular season.

Former Dallas Mavericks majority owner Mark Cuban has disclosed his unsuccessful attempt to regain control of the NBA franchise he sold to the Adelson family in 2023.

During an upcoming interview on Front Office Sports’ “Portfolio Players” podcast, Cuban revealed that concerned parties approached him about potentially reclaiming the team from its current ownership.

“What happened was a bunch of people had contacted me; they weren’t happy with the way things were,” Cuban explained to FOS. “And I was like, ‘Look, if you can get them to sell, I would be more than happy to contribute my equity, et cetera, et cetera, and help.’ But I didn’t expect that to materialize. I told them I didn’t think it would happen, that I didn’t think the Adelsons had any interest in selling. And they don’t.”

Currently, Cuban retains a 27% ownership stake after divesting 73% of the franchise in December 2023. The Adelson family holds the option to purchase an additional 20% from Cuban over the next four years, which would reduce his ownership to just 7%.

The new ownership’s decisions have included trading superstar player Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in February 2025, coming less than a year after the team’s NBA Finals run.

Cuban’s dissatisfaction with the sale became apparent in previous interviews. “I don’t regret selling. I regret who I sold to,” he stated on the “Intersections” podcast earlier this year. “I made a lot of mistakes in the process, and I’ll leave it at that.”

Reports from TheSteinLine.com indicated that a group of investors had approached Cuban about partnering to regain control from the current ownership structure.

“If there was any chance of being able to (buy the franchise back) anymore I would, but that’s just not the game anymore,” Cuban acknowledged.

The 67-year-old entrepreneur hasn’t ruled out purchasing another NBA team, though he has specific geographical preferences for any future acquisition.

“I wouldn’t want a cold-weather team, because flying from Dallas to where it’s freezing cold, I just couldn’t handle it,” Cuban noted. “But if it was a warm-weather team I would seriously consider it.”

New York Mets leadership is maintaining confidence in manager Carlos Mendoza even as the team endures one of its most challenging starts in franchise history, according to statements made by baseball operations president David Stearns to MLB.com on Friday.

The organization decided to retain Mendoza for his third campaign following a disappointing previous season that saw the team fail to reach postseason play. As they prepare for their weekend matchups in Anaheim, the Mets carry the majors’ poorest record at 10-21, marking the third-most difficult beginning through 31 games in the team’s entire history.

“We know our record is not what we want, and we know we are capable of more,” Stearns said. “We don’t view this as a manager problem, and we don’t intend to make a change.”

While two other skippers have already lost their positions during the season’s opening weeks – Boston’s Alex Cora and Philadelphia’s Rob Thomson – Mets ownership apparently attributes the team’s struggles more to early-season injuries affecting star players Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor rather than any shortcomings in Mendoza’s leadership approach.

The franchise now faces an unprecedented challenge in baseball history: attempting to recover from a 12-game losing streak and still secure a playoff berth, something no major league team has ever accomplished.

The 46-year-old Mendoza is currently in his third year under the contract he inked before the 2024 campaign began. The organization holds an option to keep him under contract through the 2027 season.

Formula 1’s American expansion strategy should focus primarily on boosting television viewership numbers, according to McLaren team principal Zak Brown, speaking at a motorsports business conference in Miami this week.

While the racing series has experienced tremendous growth in the United States recently – driven by Netflix’s popular ‘Drive to Survive’ documentary series, three domestic race events, and Apple’s upcoming Brad Pitt F1 film – television ratings remain modest compared to established American sports leagues.

Speaking at the Autosport Business Exchange event held at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, Brown addressed what he sees as the sport’s primary growth opportunity going forward.

“I think it’s going to be TV ratings,” Brown explained when discussing potential expansion paths.

The American executive expressed satisfaction with the current three U.S. Grand Prix events, though he acknowledged room for more. “I think we’ve got three fantastic grands prix and while I think we could definitely support four and five, that would come at the cost of other markets that I think we need to get into,” he stated.

“So I’m happy where we are, because I do think there’s some other growth areas in South Africa, Korea, things of that nature,” Brown continued. “I think TV ratings are still relatively small compared to the NFLs of the world. I think that’s the biggest area of growth, getting the TV ratings up.”

This season marks a significant broadcasting shift, with Apple TV replacing ESPN as Formula 1’s exclusive American television partner. The streaming service now provides live coverage of all 24 race weekends and offers expanded mobile and app accessibility.

Recent fan demographic data reveals encouraging trends for the sport’s American future. According to the 2025 Global F1 Fan Survey, nearly half of new U.S. Formula 1 followers – defined as fans following the sport for five years or fewer – fall within the 18-24 age bracket, with more than half being female viewers.

ESPN concluded their final season with record-breaking numbers, averaging 1.3 million viewers across their ESPN, ESPN2, and ABC broadcasts throughout 24 races. This figure surpassed their previous 2022 record of 1.21 million viewers and represents the highest live U.S. television average in Formula 1 history.

However, these numbers pale beside traditional American sports viewership. The NFL averaged 18.7 million viewers per game across television and digital platforms during their 2025 regular season, approaching their all-time record of 19 million set in 1989.

Apple’s Senior Vice-President of Services Eddy Cue reported positive early results from their broadcasting partnership, noting ratings increases over the previous year for their first three race broadcasts.

“Not only did we see more viewers, but we also saw more viewers throughout the weekend,” Cue explained. “I always thought there was a huge opportunity to grow viewership, not just on Sunday but all weekend. And we’ve seen that early on in the results that we have.”

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali emphasized the sport’s long-term American commitment during the conference.

“We will stay there. We know that the biggest sports in the U.S. are still far away but we are racers. And so we are not shy when we’re going to attack. Attack respectfully, of course, the other sports but we’re going to be in the culture of American fans,” Domenicali declared.

Houston Texans officials confirmed Friday they have locked up Pro Bowl linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair with a three-year contract extension.

While the team did not reveal financial details, multiple sources indicate the deal is worth $54 million total.

Al-Shaair becomes the third crucial defensive player Houston has secured with a long-term deal during this offseason. The organization previously extended All-Pro defensive end Will Anderson Jr. with a three-year, $150 million contract and signed five-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Danielle Hunter to a one-year, $40.1 million agreement.

The 28-year-old linebacker, whose previous contract was scheduled to end following the 2026 campaign, will now remain with Houston through the 2029 season.

“This place is special. The people are special,” Al-Shaair told KPRC2. “A sense of family is hard to come by. Who would have thought I would make it to the NFL? I went through homelessness. I went to several schools. I couldn’t see myself putting on a uniform with anybody else.”

During the most recent regular season, Al-Shaair served as team captain and earned his first Pro Bowl recognition in 2025. He compiled 103 tackles, defended nine passes, and intercepted two passes across 16 games, starting every contest.

Throughout his NFL career spanning 100 games with 75 starts, Al-Shaair has accumulated 535 tackles, six sacks, five forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries, and four interceptions. His professional journey included stops with the San Francisco 49ers from 2019-22 and the Tennessee Titans in 2023 before joining Houston. He originally joined the league as an undrafted free agent.

Minnesota appears to be the leading candidate to host the 2028 NFL Draft, while Cincinnati is reportedly the front-runner for 2029, according to Sports Business Journal.

Next week, the NFL’s events committee will convene to deliberate on hosting rights, followed by an anticipated ownership decision during the May 19-20 meetings in Orlando, Florida.

Washington, D.C.’s National Mall will serve as the venue for the 2027 NFL Draft.

Back in March, the Minnesota Vikings partnered with Minnesota Sports and Events to submit their hosting proposal, which would feature U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis as the primary location. Additional activities would span across St. Paul, the Mall of America, and the Viking Lakes development surrounding the team’s headquarters in Eagan, Minnesota, according to the report.

Both the Vikings organization and the NFL chose not to provide comments regarding the Sports Business Journal article published Thursday.

Buffalo has also thrown its hat in the ring as a potential host city for the 2028 draft.

Should the league opt to assign two draft locations simultaneously, Cincinnati appears to hold the advantage for the 2029 event.

During an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show” last week, Commissioner Roger Goodell stated that “we’re going to probably have to start allocating the drafts a little further in advance” given the event’s growing scale. Last month’s draft in Pittsburgh established a new attendance milestone with 805,000 participants, while Washington, D.C. officials have established an ambitious target of attracting 1 million fans to next year’s three-day celebration.

Officials have removed Right to Party from Saturday’s 152nd Kentucky Derby lineup after track veterinarians discovered a leg injury that could put both horse and rider at risk.

Veterinary staff in Louisville identified lameness in the horse’s right front leg Friday, just one day before the prestigious race that kicks off thoroughbred racing’s Triple Crown series. The condition could impact the animal’s running form and create dangerous situations during competition.

The withdrawn horse had been given 30-1 odds by morning line handicappers and was assigned to start from post position No. 5, historically considered an advantageous spot. Robusta, carrying much longer 50-1 odds, will take the vacant slot but must start from the less favorable Gate 23.

This marks the third substitution made ahead of the full 20-horse field. Earlier changes saw Great White replace Silent Tactic, while Ocelli stepped in for Fulleffort following Thursday’s withdrawal.

Ocelli faces extremely long 50-1 odds but could make history as only the fourth horse ever to capture its maiden victory at the Kentucky Derby. The last horse to accomplish this feat was Brokers Tip back in 1933.

Ken McPeek trains Right to Party and celebrated his first Derby victory just last year when Mystik Dan prevailed in a dramatic three-horse photo finish. Christopher Elliott had been scheduled to ride Right to Party in Saturday’s competition.

MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota’s basketball season featured inconsistent stretches during regular play, with the Timberwolves appearing to cruise through games while trying to rediscover the championship-level performance that carried them to back-to-back Western Conference finals in recent seasons.

However, their playoff intensity emerged forcefully in their matchup against Denver, exactly as team members had predicted. That competitive fire reached its peak during Thursday’s decisive Game 6 triumph, where Minnesota overcame the loss of their top three ball handlers to defeat the Nuggets 110-98.

“Still part of our growth,” head coach Chris Finch explained. “We’ve been really good with the high moments. Our consistency sometimes throughout the season isn’t always there, which we don’t really like about ourselves, but we know we have it in ourselves to meet these moments.”

Forward Jaden McDaniels exemplified that championship mindset perfectly.

No player better represents the unpredictable character of this tight-knit yet temperamental Minnesota squad than McDaniels, the sixth-year veteran who established himself as a series standout.

McDaniels relentlessly pursued All-Star point guard Jamal Murray through picks and defensive schemes across the court’s perimeter, holding him to just 4-of-17 field goal attempts in the clinching game while contributing significantly on offense.

Without key scorers Anthony Edwards, Donte DiVincenzo and Ayo Dosunmu available due to injuries, McDaniels stepped up dramatically, connecting on 13-of-25 field goals for 32 points while grabbing 10 rebounds.

“What I was the most proud about him was just his emotional control, being able to stay poised, not overreact to adversity, calls or missed shots, or mistakes,” center Rudy Gobert commented. “He stayed present, and he stepped up big time when we needed him the most, so I’m really, really proud of him.”

McDaniels added fuel to this heated rivalry earlier in the series by calling Denver “bad defenders,” making clear his extra motivation when facing anything labeled with “Denver” or “Nuggets.”

“The only thing I said to him, after he had made his comments, was, ‘Now it’s time to back it up,’” Finch recalled. “And talking doesn’t matter. You’ve got to go do it. I knew he was going to put the effort in, so he was ready for it, and he owned it, and he responded.”

The forward also frustrated Denver superstar Nikola Jokic by scoring an easy basket during garbage time of Minnesota’s dominant Game 4 victory, leading to a brief scuffle between players.

After struggling in Game 5’s road defeat Monday, where Denver fans frequently jeered him, McDaniels bounced back at home with arguably his finest professional performance.

As Minnesota worked to seal the victory, McDaniels provided the crucial basket — nailing his trademark mid-range jumper to extend their advantage to seven points with 1:06 remaining. He then stole an errant Jokic pass to regain possession and help ice the game at the free-throw line.

Following the final buzzer, Jokic embraced McDaniels, showing respect from the three-time league MVP despite the frustration caused throughout the series.

“I’m just happy it’s over, happy we were able to come out on top,” McDaniels stated. “Stuff was said. I’m just happy we were all able to prove our point, get the win and move on to the next round.”

San Antonio, led by Victor Wembanyama, awaits Minnesota in the next round. The Spurs will host the opening game Monday.

“I figured the real winner of this series was going to be San Antonio, because both these teams were going to take a lot of pieces out of each other, and did,” Finch observed. “So I’m not sure what we have left standing there before we go down there.”

Despite potential personnel shortages and difficult odds, Minnesota appears prepared for another challenging battle.

“You have to believe that you can win, no matter what,” Gobert emphasized. “Obviously we’re missing some pretty important players, right? But no matter who’s out there, we believe in our defense. We believe in trusting one another. Anything’s possible.”

MINNEAPOLIS — The championship glory that Nikola Jokic brought to Denver three seasons ago feels like a distant memory after the Nuggets’ disappointing first-round playoff elimination.

The Minnesota Timberwolves knocked out Denver in six games, sending the team into an uncertain offseason filled with questions about whether they can compete for another title in the competitive Western Conference. For the first time since 2020, the Nuggets won’t be playing basketball in May.

“We just lost in the first round, so I think we are far away,” Jokic commented after recording 28 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds in Thursday’s 110-98 series-ending defeat.

Minnesota’s defensive anchor Rudy Gobert, a four-time Defensive Player of the Year, effectively contained Jokic throughout the series using his wingspan, tireless energy and smart positioning to limit the Serbian center’s impact.

While Jokic showed improvement in the final two contests, his running mate Jamal Murray struggled significantly. The All-Star guard, who appeared in a career-high 75 regular season games, was consistently stifled by Minnesota defender Jaden McDaniels. Murray managed only 4 of 17 field goal attempts in the finale with a team-worst minus-18 plus-minus rating.

“When I get the looks that I need, they don’t go down,” Murray explained. “So that’s the frustrating part, not showing up when my team needed me the most tonight. I feel like if I would’ve played a little bit better we would’ve had that game.”

Denver’s depth issues became apparent with key forwards Aaron Gordon sidelined for half the series due to a calf problem and Peyton Watson unavailable throughout with a hamstring injury. While Cameron Johnson provided a late scoring burst with 27 points in Game 5, the Nuggets lacked sufficient offensive contributions beyond their two stars against a Timberwolves squad also dealing with backcourt injuries. The trademark pick-and-roll chemistry between Jokic and Murray was notably missing.

“They were missing a bunch of guys tonight, and they still won. So did we need them? Definitely, but if they are not here, we cannot think, ‘If, if, if, if,’” Jokic noted.

Denver led the NBA in offensive efficiency during the regular season and scored under 100 points just twice. Against Minnesota’s aggressive defense, they failed to reach triple digits three times in six games.

“It’s a miss-or-make league. We couldn’t make any shots,” Jokic observed. “I’m confident in my and Jamal’s two-man game.”

The three-time MVP, who will begin his 12th NBA season in 2026-27, becomes eligible for another maximum contract extension this summer. When questioned about his future plans, his response was immediate.

“I still want to be Nuggets forever,” he declared.

Head coach David Adelman lacks similar job security after completing his first full campaign. Could organizational changes be coming to Denver?

“That’s not my decision,” Jokic responded. “Definitely, if we were in Serbia, we would all be fired.”

However, the center known as “The Joker” expressed strong support for his coach.

“It’s not his fault we couldn’t rebound. It’s not his fault we couldn’t catch the ball very well. There is nothing to blame David Adelman. It was all us,” Jokic stated.

The disappointing finish came after Denver closed the regular season with 12 consecutive victories.

“Very disappointing end to the season. I’m the head coach. I take responsibility for things that didn’t go well here,” Adelman said.

MADRID, May 1 – Belgian tennis player Alexander Blockx turned what should have been a qualifying tournament appearance into a career-defining moment at the Madrid Open, advancing to the semifinals after receiving a last-minute spot in the main draw due to player withdrawals.

The 21-year-old athlete defeated several higher-ranked opponents, including Brandon Nakashima, Felix Auger-Aliassime, and Francisco Cerundolo, before stunning defending champion Casper Ruud with a straight-set victory of 6-4, 6-4 on Thursday. His remarkable run earned him a semifinal matchup against Alexander Zverev.

Blockx, who climbed from outside the world’s top 100 just two months ago to his current ranking of 69th, could potentially break into the top 30 with another victory. However, the young player acknowledged his week has already exceeded all expectations.

“I was already happy with getting into the main draw … at the last minute on Friday, just before the deadline. Winning my first match (against Cristian Garin) was already a bonus,” Blockx explained.

“Then all the other matches, I never thought I’d get that far. But once you get confident and you feel your game, a lot can happen.”

After facing challenges maintaining consistency on the professional tour following his appearance in the Next Gen ATP Finals championship match last December, Blockx began showing renewed promise with a third-round performance at the Monte Carlo Masters in recent weeks.

His impressive Madrid performance, highlighted by defeating two-time French Open finalist Ruud, has provided additional confirmation of his abilities on clay courts.

“It’s nice beating the defending champion, whose favourite conditions are here. That shows I can play well on clay too,” Blockx stated.

“The ranking is going up really fast. It’s nice to be able to play bigger tournaments now. I don’t know the ceiling, I’ll just see match by match, and hopefully get as high as I can.”

Blockx’s semifinal against Zverev is scheduled for Friday, while world number one Jannik Sinner faces Arthur Fils in the tournament’s other semifinal match.

South Australia finds itself in a difficult situation regarding a $32 million golf course renovation project following news that Saudi Arabia will discontinue funding for LIV Golf after the 2026 season.

The Saudi Public Investment Fund, which has invested over $5 billion in the breakaway golf tour since it began in 2022, announced Thursday that financial backing will cease at the end of 2026, forcing LIV officials to search for alternative funding sources.

The Australian state has already begun construction on transforming the North Adelaide Golf Course with a design by Greg Norman, intending to host the LIV tournament there starting in 2028.

Environmental activists have organized protests against the development, which requires cutting down nearly 600 trees. Demonstrators held a “vigil” at the golf course this week to oppose the tree removal.

State lawmaker Robert Simms, who opposes the renovation, criticized the government’s commitment to the project. “The government only ever committed to this project on the basis that it was going to be supposedly the jewel in the crown for LIV Golf,” Simms stated.

However, Premier Peter Malinauskas, South Australia’s top elected official, stood by the decision to move forward with the project, which received approval more than a year ago.

“Well look, LIV hasn’t been cancelled so I think … we’d be putting the cart before the horse if we just, sort of, decided to cancel the golf course when LIV very much intend to be here into the future,” Malinauskas said during a Friday interview with ABC Radio Adelaide. “Now, let’s wait and see how that plays out.”

Despite criticism from traditional golf fans who dislike LIV’s team-oriented format and entertainment focus, the Adelaide tournament has achieved remarkable success since its 2023 debut in a nation that typically struggles to attract top golf talent.

The February event at The Grange Golf Club drew more than 115,000 spectators, with Saturday’s attendance of 38,500 setting a new record for the largest single-day crowd in LIV Golf history.

The tournament has earned recognition as the World’s Best Golf Event for three consecutive years from the World Golf Awards, an industry organization focused on golf tourism.

State officials consider the event a cornerstone of the Labor government’s major events strategy, claiming the tournaments from 2023-2025 generated approximately $217 million for South Australia’s economy.

Malinauskas revealed that LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil has provided guarantees that the Adelaide event will proceed as scheduled.

“As far as South Australia’s concerned, particularly given the unqualified success this event has been economically for our state, that’s a good thing,” the Premier explained. “Having said that, I’m not naive to the fact that these reports have been going on for a good, you know, almost a fortnight and it’s something we continue to monitor very closely.”

While major American and European tours have prohibited LIV participants from competing in their events, Australia’s smaller professional tour has welcomed these players and benefited from the attention they generate.

The all-Australian Ripper GC team, led by captain Cameron Smith, claimed the team championship in Adelaide this February, thrilling local fans and golf administrators.

“Not only are they great golfers, they’re great ambassadors for Australia,” said James Sutherland, CEO of Golf Australia. “They not only play here on the local tour but push their mates on the LIV tour to come down as well.”

OG Anunoby dominated the first half with 26 of his 29 total points, propelling the New York Knicks to a crushing 140-89 win over the Atlanta Hawks on Thursday night. The victory sealed the Knicks’ first-round Eastern Conference playoff series triumph at 4-2.

The performance marked several franchise milestones for New York. Their 140 points represented the highest-scoring playoff game in team history, while the 51-point blowout became their largest postseason victory margin ever. The Knicks’ only bigger win came during the regular season this year when they demolished Brooklyn 120-66 on January 21st.

Atlanta suffered through their second-worst playoff loss in franchise history. The most devastating defeat occurred when the St. Louis Hawks fell 133-75 to Minneapolis on March 19, 1956.

New York dominated early with a commanding 63-11 first-half surge and held leads as large as 61 points. They captured three consecutive victories against Atlanta to reach the conference semifinals for the fourth consecutive season. Karl-Anthony Towns achieved his second career playoff triple-double, recording 12 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists and three steals. The starting players were benched by the middle of the third quarter due to the massive lead.

Timberwolves 110, Nuggets 98

Terrence Shannon Jr., thrust into the starting rotation due to multiple injuries, delivered a career playoff-best 24 points to help Minnesota eliminate Denver in Game 6 at home.

The sixth-seeded Timberwolves will now face the second-seeded Spurs in the Western Conference semifinals, beginning Monday night in San Antonio.

Minnesota played without several key contributors including All-NBA guard Anthony Edwards (knee injury), Donte DiVincenzo (Achilles), Game 4 standout Ayo Dosunmu (calf strain) and veteran Kyle Anderson (illness). Shannon, who sat out the series’ first three contests, responded brilliantly by shooting 9-of-20 from the field and delivering a critical three-point play that sparked a decisive 10-1 closing run.

Jaden McDaniels led all scorers with 32 points in the victory. Nikola Jokic kept Denver competitive throughout, posting team-leading totals of 28 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds.

76ers 106, Celtics 93

Tyrese Maxey poured in 30 points as Philadelphia defeated visiting Boston once again, setting up a winner-take-all Game 7 in their opening-round matchup.

The second-seeded Celtics previously controlled the series 3-1 after demolishing Philadelphia by 32 points on Sunday. However, the seventh-seeded Sixers have responded with consecutive double-digit victories in Games 5 and 6. The deciding contest will take place Saturday in Boston, where Philadelphia hopes to complete their first-ever 3-1 series comeback.

Paul George contributed 23 points for the Sixers, while Joel Embiid added 19 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists in just his third appearance since undergoing emergency appendix surgery. Jaylen Brown paced Boston with 18 points but struggled with ball security, committing five of the team’s 13 turnovers.

While Anthony Joshua has already lined up a preparatory bout before his highly anticipated all-British heavyweight showdown with Tyson Fury scheduled for later this year, Fury is also seeking to add an additional fight to his calendar.

Promoter Frank Warren confirmed Thursday that Fury is pushing for his own interim contest before the major bout.

“I think he will probably want to be doing something in between, let’s see,” Warren stated during a press conference. “AJ has got his fight. Tyson, I’m quite sure, will have a fight in between. That’s what he’s asking for and we’ll see where we go from there.”

The two British heavyweights, with Fury at 37 and Joshua at 36, have reached an agreement for their matchup, though specific details regarding the date and location remain undisclosed beyond confirmation that the fight will take place in the latter part of this year.

Joshua, who holds a record of 29-4 with 26 knockouts, is set to face Kristian Prenga (20-1, 20 KOs) on July 25 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Fury, with a record of 35-2-1 and 24 KOs, experienced consecutive defeats in decision losses to Oleksandr Usyk before rebounding with a unanimous decision victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov earlier this month in London.

Joshua’s most recent ring appearance saw him deliver a sixth-round knockout victory over internet personality Jake Paul last December. Prior to that victory, he suffered a knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024 in London.

Fury first captured a portion of the world heavyweight championship in 2015 and held part of the title going into his initial fight with Usyk in May 2024.

Joshua held at least a portion of the heavyweight championship from 2016 until he also experienced back-to-back defeats to Usyk, with the first loss occurring in 2021.

The Philadelphia Phillies delivered an unforgettable performance for their home crowd, capturing both ends of a doubleheader against the San Francisco Giants with thrilling walk-off victories that had fans on their feet.

In the opening contest, Philadelphia found themselves down 2-1 heading into the final frame before mounting a spectacular comeback. Bryson Stott launched a crucial triple that evened the score in the ninth inning, then crossed home plate on Justin Crawford’s infield grounder to secure a 3-2 triumph.

The dramatic finish came after Adolis Garcia opened the ninth with a base hit and came around to score on Stott’s clutch hit to the right field corner. Following Edmundo Sosa’s out, Crawford delivered the game-winner by beating shortstop Willy Adames’ throw to first base on a ground ball to the left side.

Kyle Schwarber reached a significant milestone during the opener, connecting for his 350th career home run. Philadelphia starter Cristopher Sanchez turned in a solid performance, surrendering just two runs while recording seven strikeouts across 6 2/3 innings of work.

Giants starter Logan Webb pitched effectively for seven innings, giving up only one run and fanning six batters. He appeared headed for a victory until Ryan Walker (0-1) surrendered the lead in the ninth inning.

The nightcap proved equally exciting, with Philadelphia claiming a 6-5 victory in extra innings. Alec Bohm’s sacrifice fly in the tenth inning brought home the decisive run, completing the sweep with another walk-off celebration.

Schwarber continued his outstanding day with a perfect 4-for-4 performance in the second game, including a clutch two-out hit in the ninth that forced extra innings. The veteran outfielder and Trea Turner both launched home runs in the opening frame to give Philadelphia an early advantage.

Chase Shugart (2-0) made history by becoming the first Phillies pitcher since 2022 to earn victories in both games of a doubleheader. Drew Gilbert collected three hits for San Francisco, which was swept in the three-game series. Matt Gage (2-1) took the loss despite retiring both batters he faced.

In other MLB action, Detroit snapped a lengthy losing streak against Atlanta with a 5-2 comeback victory. Gleyber Torres contributed three hits and delivered a crucial sacrifice fly during a two-run eighth-inning rally that lifted the Tigers over the Braves.

Matt Vierling had an exceptional game for Detroit with three hits, including a double, while scoring twice and driving in two runs. The Tigers ended a 10-game losing streak against Atlanta. Rookie Kevin McGonigle walked three times to extend his on-base streak to 26 games, though his 13-game hitting streak came to an end.

Baltimore and Houston split their doubleheader, with the Orioles winning the opener 10-3 behind grand slams from Adley Rutschman and Jeremiah Jackson. The Astros responded with an 11-5 victory in the nightcap, led by Cam Smith’s three-run homer during a five-run first inning.

St. Louis completed a four-game sweep of Pittsburgh with a 10-5 victory, while Washington rallied past New York 5-4 on CJ Abrams’ go-ahead two-run homer in the eighth inning. Cincinnati defeated Colorado 6-4 behind TJ Friedl’s go-ahead blast, and Milwaukee hammered Arizona 13-1 with William Contreras collecting four hits and four RBIs.

Japanese tennis star Kei Nishikori announced Friday that he will retire following the 2026 season, concluding a groundbreaking professional career that opened doors for tennis players across Japan.

The 36-year-old athlete made history in 2014 when he became the first Japanese competitor to advance to a Grand Slam singles championship match at the U.S. Open. He also achieved the distinction of being only the second Asian male player, following Thailand’s Paradorn Srichaphan, to break into the world’s top 10 rankings.

Nishikori’s career peaked in 2015 when he climbed to fourth place in global rankings and captured 12 ATP Tour championships throughout his professional journey. However, persistent injuries have taken their toll, dropping his current world ranking to 464th position.

His last appearance in the top 10 rankings occurred in October 2019, and just last month he acknowledged he was “barely hanging on” regarding his physical condition.

In a social media announcement, Nishikori reflected on his accomplishments: “Reaching the ATP Tour, playing at the highest level of competition and maintaining a presence in the top 10 is something I am extremely proud of.”

“Whether in victory or defeat, the special atmosphere I felt in packed arenas is irreplaceable … To be honest, I still wish I could continue my playing career. Even so, looking back on everything up to this point, I can proudly say that I gave it my all,” he continued.

“I am truly happy to have walked this path. I will cherish every moment of the remaining matches and fight to the very end,” Nishikori added.

The tennis veteran last competed in a tour-level tournament at the Cincinnati Open in 2023, although he has participated in five Challenger events during the current year.

Among his notable achievements, Nishikori captured an Olympic bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Games, where he defeated Spain’s Rafael Nadal in a three-set match.

Community activists and hospitality workers gathered Thursday outside the FIFA Congress meeting in Vancouver, voicing concerns that World Cup preparations are harming the city’s most vulnerable populations.

Members of an anti-FIFA coalition accused city officials of already beginning to displace homeless residents through increased street cleanups, tent restrictions, and seizure of personal belongings.

The demonstrators demanded an end to police raids on homeless camps and criticized Vancouver’s February human rights action plan for the tournament as insufficient and lacking concrete commitments.

“There’s a lot of anxiety and fear in the community about what’s going to happen with the FIFA games,” community advocate Fiona York told Reuters.

York explained that many homeless individuals worry about experiencing the same treatment as during the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, when residents recall heightened displacement and increased police presence. She contended that tournament funds could better serve the community by supporting shelters, small housing units, or secure parking areas for people living in vehicles.

“Right now there’s already a crisis and there’s a big fear that it’s going to get even worse,” she said.

Hotel workers from Unite Here Local 40 joined the demonstration outside the Pan Pacific Hotel, where FIFA Congress attendees were reportedly lodged.

Union representative Michelle Travis explained that rising hotel rates have not translated to improved wages for employees, many of whom face lengthy commutes because Vancouver’s cost of living prevents them from residing in the city.

The demonstrators urged FIFA and tournament organizers to prevent the World Cup from exacerbating homelessness, displacement, or worker struggles, proposing a “FIFA dividend” to compensate affected communities.

“Folks love FIFA, they love soccer, but they also want to make sure that these events aren’t pushing people out, whether they work in the hotels, whether they’re on the streets,” she said.

“They want to see FIFA contribute if they’re going to be here.”

Vancouver is scheduled to host its first of seven World Cup matches on June 13.

ATLANTA — NBA playoff history was made Thursday evening as the New York Knicks established a commanding 47-point halftime advantage over the Atlanta Hawks during Game 6 of their Eastern Conference opening round matchup.

At intermission, New York held an 83-36 advantage after their lead had swelled to as much as 51 points during the second quarter.

The massive halftime margin surpassed the previous NBA playoff record of 41 points, which had occurred on two prior occasions: Cleveland’s 72-31 advantage over Boston on May 19, 2017, and Indiana’s 80-39 lead against the Cavaliers on May 11, 2025.

New York’s 47-point advantage matches the second-largest halftime lead in NBA history since the shot-clock era began in 1954, including both playoff and regular season contests. Dallas holds the record with a 50-point halftime lead over the Los Angeles Clippers on December 27, 2020, while Golden State previously held a 47-point advantage against Sacramento on November 2, 1991.

The Knicks also matched the third-highest first-half scoring performance in NBA playoff history with their 83 points. Oklahoma City previously scored 87 against Denver on May 7, 2025, Cleveland tallied 86 versus Golden State on June 9, 2017, and Dallas recorded 83 against Sacramento on May 8, 2003.

Despite Atlanta opening the game with a 9-0 scoring burst to take a 9-5 advantage, New York responded with a devastating 43-6 run that completely changed the game’s momentum.

BROOK PARK, Ohio — Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam and his family celebrated a major project milestone Thursday as they officially commenced construction on their new covered stadium, which is slated to welcome fans for the 2029 football season.

However, several financial hurdles remain unresolved as work begins on the 67,500-seat venue, positioned adjacent to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport approximately 15 miles south of Cleveland’s city center.

A class-action lawsuit has frozen Ohio’s promised $600 million contribution to the project. The legal challenge contests a state budget provision that allocated $1 billion from Ohio’s Unclaimed Funds Account toward sports venue construction, claiming it violates constitutional protections against government seizure of private property.

Governor Mike DeWine expressed uncertainty about whether the legal dispute would resolve before he completes his second term in January.

“This is clearly going to go on for a while and so I’m not happy about that. There’s nothing we can do about that, but we’re going to go ahead,” he said after the ceremony. “I think that we’re going to win this case in court. It’s slow, certainly and we’re waiting, but I think eventually we win. If we do not win, if we ultimately lose, there’s another alternative. My initial proposal was to tax the sports gaming companies. I think that’s still a possibility that we could do.”

Additionally, Brook Park officials have not yet given final approval to their planned $245 million investment. The Haslam Sports Group — established by Dee and Jimmy Haslam along with their daughter and son-in-law — will shoulder the majority of expenses at $1.76 billion and assume responsibility for any budget increases.

According to Haslam, conversations about the stadium began in 2018, initially focusing on updating the Browns’ existing lakefront facility.

The current venue debuted in 1999 as Cleveland Browns Stadium, replacing Cleveland Municipal Stadium that operated from 1931 until demolition in 1996.

Plans shifted toward a new location beginning in 2021 when constructing a fresh facility became more practical than renovation.

The upcoming stadium and accompanying residential and commercial developments will occupy 178 acres where two Ford Motor Company manufacturing plants previously operated.

Cleveland officials initially contested the Browns’ decision to relocate from downtown before both parties reached an agreement. The team will finance demolition of their current home following the 2028 season, clearing space for lakefront redevelopment.

Due to its proximity to airport operations, the structure will extend 80 feet underground and rise 221 feet above ground level. The Ohio Department of Transportation granted an exception to the 150-foot height restriction above airport ground elevation after independent analysis confirmed the stadium would not interfere with aircraft routes. The facility will include Federal Aviation Administration-mandated marking and lighting systems.

“It was a bumpy road to get here, but we’re excited we’re here,” Haslam said. “I think everybody is finally beginning to sense that this is reality.”

The venue will showcase a folded plate transparent roof design, permitting natural light while protecting spectators from harsh winter conditions that characterize late-season Browns games.

The redesigned Dawg Pound represents the stadium’s most distinctive interior element. Constructed at a 34-degree angle, it will span more than 60 rows extending nearly to one of the massive video displays. The freestanding section will offer foldable seating options for fans who prefer sitting.

This area draws inspiration from European soccer venues, particularly modeling the “Yellow Wall” section at Borussia Dortmund’s stadium in Germany’s Bundesliga.

The Browns and design firm HKS report the closest seats will sit just 16 feet from the playing field, while the furthest will be only 248 feet away — closer than any other NFL facility. Approximately 80% of seating will be located in the lower level.

Officials expect the new stadium to compete for hosting the NCAA Men’s Final Four, major concerts, and other premier sporting competitions.

Regarding Super Bowl possibilities, the timeline appears more distant.

Commissioner Roger Goodell acknowledged after the groundbreaking that while the stadium will meet Super Bowl standards, Northeast Ohio faces additional obstacles, particularly insufficient hotel accommodations required for the championship game.

Goodell estimated Cleveland currently has only half the minimum room capacity needed for Super Bowl hosting. However, he indicated Cleveland remains under consideration for hosting the NFL Draft again, having done so in 2021 under COVID-19 capacity restrictions.

“I think the real challenge is going to be how transformational this is here. The airport is important for us, hotels are important for us. All of the facilities are the biggest challenge for hosting a Super Bowl,” Goodell said. “It’s great for economic impact, but it’s hard for cities to be able to meet some of those requirements on the facilities. So that’s the biggest challenge.”

The Browns join a wave of NFL stadium construction projects. Buffalo’s new facility opens this season, Tennessee’s debuts next year, and Jacksonville’s renovated stadium launches in 2028.

Two American golfers have seized control at the top of the leaderboard following Thursday’s opening round of the Riviera Maya Open in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Brianna Do closed her round with a birdie on the final hole to match fellow American Melanie Green at 6-under-par 66.

Green, competing in her first year on the LPGA Tour, recorded a hole-in-one during an eventful front nine and finished with a birdie followed by a bogey on her final two holes to reach 6-under.

Spanish golfer Carlota Ciganda sits one stroke behind the leaders in third place at 5-under 67, posting seven birdies against two bogeys during her round.

Do got off to a fast start at El Camaleon Golf Course, recording four birdies within her opening five holes. She stumbled with her only bogey to end the front nine but bounced back with back-to-back birdies on holes 11 and 12, contributing to a 3-under performance on the back nine.

Despite challenging windy conditions, Do remained composed thanks to recent experience in similar weather during her U.S. Open qualifier.

“I actually had my U.S. Open qualifier, I don’t know, like two weeks ago or a week ago, and it was very windy, so it kind of helped me prepare myself for this week mentally,” Do said.

“(My strong start) kind of gave me a good start and a good cushion to kind of play aggressive the rest of the round.”

Green began her round on the back nine and reached 6-under through nine holes with an ace, five birdies, and one bogey. After recording birdies on holes 17 and 18, she temporarily reached 7-under with another birdie on the par-3 8th before dropping a shot on the final par-4.

The most memorable moment of Green’s round occurred on the par-3 15th hole, though she missed seeing her ball find the cup and initially doubted her caddie’s announcement.

“I’m like, ‘Shane, that’s not nice. It’s not in the hole. That’s not nice,’” Green recalled. “I walk up there and all I could see was the cross. I was so excited. Yeah, thought I just went way left. But whatever. Good bounce.

“I can’t say that (a hole-in-one) was a goal of mine this year, but always fun to have. It’s more fun when you can see it go in, but that’s OK.”

The 36-year-old Do joined the tour in 2013, while 24-year-old Green is in her debut season. Both players are still seeking their first LPGA Tour victory.

Do’s best career finish came at last year’s inaugural Riviera Maya Open, where she tied for ninth at 3-under.

“Having a good week here last year brought good vibes coming back, so I was excited to be back here and try and better how I played last year,” Do said.

World No. 1 Nelly Korda, who reclaimed the top ranking with her victory at last week’s Chevron Championship, is among six players sharing fourth place at 4-under. The group also includes Japan’s Erika Hara, Mexico’s Gaby Lopez, Japan’s Cocona Sakurai, South Korea’s Soo Bin Joo, and Thailand’s Suvichaya Vinijchaitham.

Defending champion Chizzy Iwai of Japan struggled in her title defense, sitting tied for 85th at 3-over 75 after a double bogey on the par-3 8th hole.

VANCOUVER, British Columbia — After more than a year without any public interest, an investor group has stepped forward with plans to purchase the Vancouver Whitecaps soccer franchise and relocate the Major League Soccer team to Las Vegas.

Grant Gustavson, whose grandfather B. Wayne Hughes established Public Storage, leads the investment consortium. The Whitecaps have been on the market for 16 months, with Thursday marking the first time potential purchasers have publicly announced their intentions.

“In the coming weeks and months, we look forward to the opportunity to share more, however, out of respect for the league’s deliberations and community stakeholders, we are refraining from sharing details of our proposal,” Gustavson said in a statement. “We look forward to continuing to work for a positive outcome for the game, the fans, the league and Las Vegas.”

According to Gustavson, the investor group plans to use private funds for both the acquisition and relocation, emphasizing the proposal is “not connected to any of the recently announced arena ideas in Las Vegas.”

Major League Soccer officials have indicated they will “evaluate all options” regarding the Whitecaps’ future, including potential relocation. The franchise currently uses BC Place as its home venue, which will serve as a host site for seven matches during this summer’s World Cup. However, league leadership has expressed dissatisfaction with the stadium lease arrangement and prefers a soccer-dedicated facility.

“It’s reaching a critical point,” MLS Commissioner Don Garber said Tuesday during a meeting with the Associated Press Sports Editors in New York.

Garber pointed to restrictive scheduling limitations imposed by the government entity managing the facility and the inability to install premium seating options.

British Columbia officials announced Tuesday they are collaborating with the Whitecaps to reduce operational expenses and increase revenue opportunities at BC Place, though they will not purchase the franchise to prevent its departure.

Team supporters attended Thursday’s FIFA Congress meeting in Vancouver, displaying numerous “Save the ‘Caps” signs and distributing similar posters throughout the downtown area.

Ravi Kahlon, B.C.’s minister of jobs and economic growth, revealed the team currently operates at the stadium without rental fees, and similar arrangements from this year could continue for another year.

“Look, I think we should all be concerned,” Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim said following the congress at the Vancouver Convention Center. “And that goes well before Vegas came into the picture. We’ve been concerned. We’ve been working on this for more than a year. We can’t control what other groups that have an interest in our team, what they do. All we can do is control our destiny.”

Sim mentioned the city has located a potential site where new ownership could construct a stadium and entertainment complex using private investment rather than public funds. The following phase would involve negotiating an interim agreement with provincial authorities.

The Whitecaps and the provincial government, which controls BC Place through the Crown corporation PavCo, executed a one-year lease agreement earlier this year that provides the club with approximately $1 million to $1.5 million annually from provincial hosting revenues.

Garber has indicated optimism that the Whitecaps might find a solution to stay in Vancouver while noting that Las Vegas expansion remains another option. Las Vegas is not the sole city under consideration.

In a statement released earlier this week, the Whitecaps reported having “serious conversations with more than 100 parties, and to date, no viable offer has emerged that would keep the club here.”

“The club has faced well-documented structural challenges around stadium economics, venue access, and revenue limitations that have made it difficult to attract buyers committed to keeping the team in Vancouver.”

MLS franchise values have skyrocketed from tens of millions required for entry 15 years ago to hundreds of millions today. San Diego paid a $500 million expansion fee in May 2023 to become the league’s 30th franchise.

Three NHL teams will attempt to punch their tickets to the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs Friday night, as elimination pressure mounts in the first round.

Friday’s triple-header features three Game 6 matchups where Montreal, Buffalo, and Vegas each hold 3-2 series leads and hope to avoid the uncertainty of a winner-take-all seventh game.

The evening begins with Tampa Bay traveling to face the Canadiens, followed by Buffalo’s journey to Boston, and concludes with Vegas visiting the Utah Mammoth.

For Montreal and Buffalo, advancing to the next round would represent a massive achievement for franchises whose devoted supporters are eager to experience deeper playoff runs again.

Buffalo’s fanbase has endured the longest drought, waiting 14 seasons to witness playoff hockey before this year’s squad captured their first Atlantic Division championship.

However, the Sabres now face their biggest challenge yet — finishing off a playoff opponent. Buffalo came agonizingly close in their initial opportunity Tuesday, falling to Boston in overtime during Game 5 on home ice.

The Sabres’ roster lacks postseason experience, with only 10 players having previously participated in a series-clinching opportunity.

“We trusted the process to get to this point,” Buffalo coach Lindy Ruff said. “You’ve got to continue to trust it. It’s a team (that for) a whole year has won together and lost together, but embrace this moment — and somebody for us is going to be a big time player. I can’t tell you who that is, but somebody will.”

Buffalo’s man-advantage unit remains problematic: Rasmus Dahlin’s tally in Game 5 marked the Sabres’ lone power-play goal in 18 attempts this series. The team enters Game 6 having scored on just one of 20 power-play opportunities against Boston after going scoreless in their final 22 chances of the regular season.

Buffalo’s most recent playoff series triumph came against the New York Rangers in the 2007 second round.

When/Where to Watch: Game 6, Friday, 10 p.m. EDT (ESPN).

Series: Golden Knights lead 3-2.

Vegas stands one win from advancing thanks to their special teams performance.

The Golden Knights’ power play has frustrated coach John Tortorella, who has adjusted his top two units searching for solutions from what was one of the league’s most effective regular-season groups.

Special teams proved decisive in Wednesday’s 5-4 double-overtime triumph over Utah. Pavel Dorofeyev’s opening goal came on the power play, and he tied the game with a six-on-five marker with 52.7 seconds remaining in regulation before Brett Howden netted the short-handed game-winner.

Vegas also successfully defended all five of Utah’s power-play attempts. The Mammoth have managed just one goal in 14 power-play chances throughout the series.

“It really came up big for us tonight,” Tortorella said of the penalty kill. “It’s a skilled team, a very dangerous power play, really big in OT as far as the kill. It’s steadied itself. Utah gets a lot of momentum off their power play whether they score or not. I think we’ve done a better job as the series has gone on.”

Vegas must still solve their power-play struggles. Dorofeyev’s first goal broke a 13-opportunity scoring drought, and they’ve converted just 3 of 18 chances in the series.

This makes Vegas’ series lead even more impressive. According to OptaSTATS, 29 teams have been behind in the third period of each of the first five games in a series, including the Golden Knights. The other 28 teams either trailed after five games or faced elimination.

Vegas defied those odds.

This gives Utah significant optimism as they fight elimination. They’ve remained competitive, dropping consecutive overtime contests, or the Mammoth would already be preparing for Anaheim or Edmonton in round two.

“We’re a confident group and we believe in one another and our team,” Mammoth captain Clayton Keller said. “These are the most fun games to be a part of. Down 3-2, we get to go home and play in front of our fans. I’m fired up for that.”

When/Where to Watch: Game 6, Friday, 7:30 p.m. EDT (ESPN).

Series: Sabres lead 3-2.

David Pastrnak’s breakaway strike 9:14 into overtime secured a 2-1 victory over Buffalo on Tuesday, extending Boston’s season.

The Bruins return to TD Garden hoping to repeat that success, though their home venue hasn’t provided much comfort in this series: Boston was outscored 9-2 during home defeats in Games 3 and 4.

Coach Marco Sturm believes Tuesday’s dramatic victory doesn’t mean they’ve solved Buffalo, despite making tactical adjustments that favored Boston.

The Bruins posted a 29-11-1 home record during the regular season.

“(Being home) should elevate your game,” Sturm said. “We’re against the wall, so home or away I see it more like we have to bring our A-game. Otherwise we go home, so we’re going to approach it that way. It’s a one-game mission again.”

Buffalo will be missing a crucial contributor as they pursue their first playoff series victory since defeating the New York Rangers in six games during the 2007 second round.

Rookie forward Noah Ostlund sustained a lower-body injury in Tuesday’s opening period.

Sabres coach Lindy Ruff declined to specify the injury details, stating “it doesn’t look good.” Ostlund had just returned from an upper-body injury in Game 3, where he recorded a goal and assist.

When/Where to Watch: Game 6, Friday, 7 p.m. EDT (ESPN2).

Series: Canadiens lead 3-2.

This matchup has delivered exceptional drama, featuring five straight one-goal decisions, three overtime periods, and numerous clutch performances from both teams. Montreal sits one victory from their first playoff advancement in five seasons, and the Bell Centre crowd will create an electric atmosphere.

The Canadiens received instant production in Game 5 from Brendan Gallagher, who found the net in his series debut after being scratched four times. The veteran’s physical presence and net-front determination embodied coach Martin St. Louis’ desired approach against the experienced Lightning.

Tampa Bay faces their fourth straight first-round elimination, but coach Jon Cooper’s squad can draw confidence from their hard-fought Game 4 road victory when they again confront the hostile Montreal crowd.

NEW YORK — Mets pitcher Luke Weaver believes his team is being crushed by the mental burden of their historically poor start to the season, following New York’s latest heartbreaking defeat.

The right-hander surrendered a crucial two-run home run to Washington’s CJ Abrams during the eighth inning on Thursday, as the Nationals rallied for a 5-4 victory that marked the Mets’ 17th defeat in their last 20 contests.

“At the end of the day, this pursuit of perfection is just an ultimate pressurized failure mindset,” Weaver said softly during a lengthy postgame introspection. “Everybody wants to be the hero because we care and we want to win really, really bad, and I just don’t think success lives in that realm. It just truly doesn’t and I think the freedom of which we play day to day is just kind of being suffocated a little bit.”

The Mets currently hold baseball’s worst record at 10-21. Their .323 winning percentage through April ranks as the franchise’s fourth-worst start, trailing only disastrous beginnings in 1962 (3-13), 1964 (2-10) and 1981 (4-10).

Despite rallying from a three-run deficit to grab a 4-3 advantage on MJ Melendez’s three-run blast in the third inning and Mark Vientos’ RBI double in the sixth, New York squandered another lead for the 10th time this season.

Luis García Jr. connected on Weaver’s first offering in the eighth inning, and Daylen Lile successfully avoided a double play with his speed. Abrams then crushed a poorly located changeup 403 feet to right-center field for the decisive blow.

“I want to do my job. It’s that simple. There’s moments that feel really close, and then there’s just one — mistakes that magnify our situation,” Weaver said. “And, so, of course I sit there and feel the weight of the world, and feel like I let the team down. But at the end of the day, I do feel like I’m in a good spot. It’s just, we sit there and we just tell you guys, ‘It’ll come. This is the game. This is the law of averages’ and all these things, but at the end of the day those words just don’t hold the same weight when you continue to go (lose) day after day.”

High expectations surrounded the Mets following an aggressive offseason restructuring that saw Pete Alonso, Brandon Nimmo and Edwin Díaz leave town, while Bo Bichette, Marcus Semien and Devin Williams joined the organization. So far, those moves have produced disappointing results.

New York entered the campaign with Major League Baseball’s largest payroll at $358.4 million. After posting an outstanding 45-23 record through June 13 last season, the Mets have gone 48-76 since that point.

The team currently ranks 27th among 30 clubs with a .227 batting average, 29th with just 106 runs scored, and dead last with a .631 OPS.

“Typically we don’t see an entire kind of collective group at the same time not playing their best brand of baseball,” Weaver said.

Only two position players in New York’s regular lineup are hitting above .240: $765 million superstar Juan Soto, whose 15-game absence due to a right calf injury coincided with a 12-game losing streak, and MJ Melendez, who began the year in the minor leagues but has recently batted third behind Soto.

Injuries have decimated one-third of the Mets’ opening day starting lineup. Center fielder Luis Robert Jr. (lumbar spine disk herniation) joined shortstop Francisco Lindor (left calf) and first baseman/designated hitter Jorge Polanco (left Achilles, right wrist) on the disabled list Thursday.

Weaver and Williams, acquired from the crosstown Yankees by president of baseball operations David Stearns to strengthen the bullpen’s late innings, have posted a combined 6.86 ERA with three blown saves.

Starting pitchers are lasting barely five innings per appearance on average. Rotation members excluding Clay Holmes and rookie Nolan McLean have compiled a 6.04 ERA.

“It just feels like there’s a little bit of a culture that’s just kind of adapted to it unintentionally,” Weaver said. “It’s just how winning and losing goes. When you win, you feel like you’re on top of the world. When you’re losing, everybody wants to talk about the failures and the outcomes. And the magnification just becomes immense.

“Sleep is lost. The mind wanders and you just kind of get into a fixation that you don’t really need to be in.”

New York trails the National League’s final playoff position by 8½ games and sits 11½ games behind the division-leading Atlanta Braves. Only two franchises in baseball history — the 1914 Boston Braves and the 1981 Kansas City Royals — have reached the postseason after starting 10-21 or worse, with Kansas City achieving that feat by capturing the American League West second-half title during the strike-shortened season.

“It’s hard for all of us,” embattled manager Carlos Mendoza said. “We’re in this together. It’s not easy. But we’ve got to keep going. There’s no other choices here. We have a responsibility and we have to turn this thing around.”

The solution may require returning to baseball’s fundamental joys.

“It’s simplifying the process and maybe doing less,” Weaver said. “Maybe it’s less reps. Maybe it’s more about just enjoying why you do this for a living and trying to just find your inner kid and the joy of why you play the game and not trying to do it for other people.”

Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix underwent a follow-up procedure on his right ankle but remains on track to participate in training camp and the upcoming regular season, according to a source familiar with the situation who spoke to The Associated Press.

The source requested anonymity Thursday as the team has not publicly disclosed specifics about the cleanup surgery performed by Dr. Norman Waldrop III. Waldrop was the same surgeon who treated Nix after the quarterback fractured a bone in his right ankle during Denver’s AFC playoff game on January 18.

Denver will likely take a cautious approach with their starting quarterback following this additional surgery, which team officials had planned to conduct either this spring or after the conclusion of next season.

While Nix has been participating in workouts at the team’s facility in suburban Denver, backup quarterbacks Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger will likely handle most of the repetitions leading up to late July training camp, when Nix is anticipated to resume full activities.

Aside from next week’s rookie minicamp, the Broncos have scheduled their organized team activities and minicamp for June.

Head coach Sean Payton acknowledged Nix’s surgical follow-up after Denver wrapped up the NFL draft on Saturday but declined to provide specifics about the procedure.

“He had a recheck that was scheduled,” Payton said. “He’s doing great. We’re excited about his progress. Nothing to report.”

The injury occurred as Nix was directing the Broncos’ game-winning field goal drive in overtime against Buffalo during the divisional round of the playoffs. Stidham took over starting duties the next week for the AFC championship game, which Denver dropped 10-7 at home to New England in snowy conditions.

During the NFL owners meetings in Arizona, team owner and CEO Greg Penner informed reporters that Nix was “ahead of schedule, no concerns at all for OTAs and games.” Payton had also expressed similar confidence, stating Nix would participate fully in organized team activities.

However, those original plans shifted when Nix and his medical team, working with the organization, decided to proceed with the cleanup procedure now instead of postponing it until the next offseason.

The 25-year-old quarterback has compiled a 25-11 record over his first two NFL seasons since Denver selected him 12th overall in the 2025 draft following his college career at Oregon.

PITTSBURGH — Paul Skenes has built a reputation for meticulous preparation in just his second season, but the Pittsburgh Pirates star pitcher admits he never knows what kind of performance awaits until he takes the mound and faces that first batter.

Sometimes, like his recent outing in Milwaukee, everything clicks perfectly. Other days, like Thursday’s matchup with St. Louis, his typically dominant command appears surprisingly ordinary.

Cardinals rookie JJ Wetherholt connected on Skenes’ third pitch of the game, sending it over the right-field wall at PNC Park. Three hitters later, Jordan Walker launched a sweeper that failed to break properly into the left-field bleachers, propelling St. Louis toward a 10-5 triumph and completing their four-game sweep.

The defeat left Skenes (4-2) winless in five career starts against the Cardinals, though his 2.95 ERA against St. Louis tells a different story. Even after surrendering five runs (four earned) in his most challenging outing since a difficult season opener against the Mets in New York, those numbers reflect the incredibly high expectations surrounding the young star.

“Nobody expects more out of Paul Skenes than Paul does out of himself,” Pirates manager Don Kelly said. “I think when he has a game like today or the opener, we have to find a way to pick him, because he picks us up all the time.”

Facing an opportunity to halt Pittsburgh’s recent struggles, Skenes couldn’t find his usual dominance. He fell behind Wetherholt 2-0 before the Cardinals infielder attacked a 95 mph fastball — slower than Skenes’ typical 98-99 mph velocity — and drove it beyond the Roberto Clemente Wall in right field.

Ivan Herrera reached on an infield hit, setting up Walker’s blast on an 83 mph sweeper that caught too much of the strike zone. The ball cleared left fielder Jake Mangum’s glove, launching the Cardinals toward their first four-game sweep at PNC Park since 2019.

When asked about St. Louis’s relative success against him, the 23-year-old Skenes delivered his characteristic blend of dry humor and honest assessment.

“They score more runs than us,” he said.

Though Skenes found his rhythm later — recording a season-high nine strikeouts — the Cardinals made the most of their contact opportunities. They extended their lead in the third following Alec Burleson’s infield single and rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin’s throwing error, which led to Nolan Gorman’s RBI hit. In the fifth inning, Burleson worked a changeup well outside the zone into left field, plating Wetherholt.

“I think that sometimes teams go up there, try to work his pitch count, try to get that up,” Kelly said. “It doesn’t seem to be the case. They’re going up there swinging and trying to get their swing off. … They put some good swings on the ball today.”

The loss dropped Pittsburgh to 16-16, far from last season’s disastrous start that led to former manager Derek Shelton’s dismissal, but still behind the pace in the competitive NL Central as first-place Cincinnati arrives for the weekend series.

“I mean, every team is going to have skids,” Skenes said. “Just got to get back to who we are and just play our game. Not try to do too much. Just think we’re trying to do too much a little bit, especially today. Just got to be us.”

Pirates second baseman Brandon Lowe highlighted how accustomed the team has become to Skenes’ excellence when the familiar No. 30 takes the hill.

“It’s pretty difficult when you sit there and you’re saying, ‘Oh, he struggled’ and he gave up three (runs),” Lowe said.

Lowe, among several veterans brought in during the offseason to support Pittsburgh’s young core featuring Skenes and 20-year-old Griffin, isn’t worried about the recent rough stretch derailing what began as a promising campaign.

“When you’re in the training room, you’re in the tubs and stuff like that, showers, you just kind of have conversations and talking with these guys for a long time,” said Lowe, who launched his eighth homer of the year in the seventh inning. “They have a pretty good head on their shoulders and the way they look at things. … So it’s just one of those things, you kind of flush the bad ones and focus on the next one.”

DURHAM, N.C. — Amazon’s streaming platform Prime Video has entered the college sports arena through a groundbreaking partnership with Duke University’s renowned men’s basketball program.

The tech giant and the university revealed on Thursday that they’ve finalized a multi-year deal for Prime Video to stream three neutral-site non-conference games each season featuring the Blue Devils. This represents Prime Video’s inaugural venture into college athletics, adding to their existing portfolio that includes professional football and basketball coverage.

The upcoming season’s lineup features three high-profile contests: Duke will take on UConn in Las Vegas on Nov. 25, recreating their dramatic NCAA Elite Eight encounter where the Huskies overcame a 19-point deficit to win on a buzzer-beater. The Blue Devils will then clash with defending national champion Michigan at New York’s Madison Square Garden on Dec. 21, followed by a showdown with Gonzaga in Detroit on Feb. 20.

“Duke basketball games transcend the schedule,” said Charlie Neiman, Prime Video’s head of sports partnerships, “and the creation of this all-new offering gives fans more of what we all want, marquee matchups featuring the most successful programs in the nation.”

According to Duke’s announcement, the Blue Devils have committed to participating in additional ESPN-operated events during the 2027-28 and 2028-29 seasons “in exchange for the flexibility” to accommodate these Prime Video broadcasts. These arrangements complement ESPN’s existing relationship with Duke’s conference, the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Duke athletic director Nina King stated that the agreement “expands the global reach” for the program that has captured five NCAA championships.

Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber claims a cybercriminal gained access to his social media account following the appearance of a childish message directed at British Columbia Premier David Eby.

The controversy began when Eby shared a brief 45-second clip on his social media platform Wednesday, promising supporters he would work to keep the Vancouver Whitecaps from moving elsewhere.

“The Whitecaps are British Columbia, and I want you to know that we are at the table fighting hard to save the Whitecaps,” Eby stated in his message to supporters.

Shortly after, a response from Garber’s verified account targeted Eby’s statement with the phrase “Liar liar pants on fire.”

Approximately sixty minutes following the controversial message, Garber offered his explanation: “My account was compromised earlier this evening. The issue has been resolved. I appreciate Premier Eby for taking the time to meet with me today.”

The league’s executive vice president of communications, Dan Courtemanche, supported Garber’s explanation by confirming on social media that “Commissioner Garber was hacked and did not post this.”

The 68-year-old league chief, who has led MLS since 1999, traveled to Vancouver for Thursday’s FIFA Congress and scheduled meetings with local officials regarding the Whitecaps’ uncertain future.

The soccer club traces its origins to 1974 when it began as part of the North American Soccer League before joining MLS as an expansion team in 2009.

Since December 2024, ownership has actively sought buyers, though “no viable offer has emerged that would keep the club here” despite engaging with over 100 potential purchasers, team officials stated.

According to ESPN’s recent reporting, investment groups from Phoenix and Las Vegas have shown interest in acquiring and relocating the franchise.

Saudi Arabia’s wealthy investors are ending their financial support for LIV Golf, marking another major sports venture the kingdom has abandoned in recent months.

In recent weeks, Saudi officials have canceled a Winter Olympics-style sporting event and sold off one of their premier soccer clubs, signaling a major change in their multibillion-dollar investment approach.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Saudi Public Investment Fund recently released a new strategic plan for 2026-30, emphasizing domestic investments while “maximizing financial returns, strengthening investment efficiency and increasing private sector participation.”

This new direction supports the crown prince’s “Vision 2030” initiative, which aims to transform Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure and develop tourism as a key component of their oil-dependent economy.

This marks a departure from years of massive spending on international sports ventures. Soccer has been central to their efforts — the nation will host the 2034 World Cup, while PIF controls a majority interest in Premier League’s Newcastle and supports the Saudi Pro League. The fund has also invested heavily in professional tennis for both men and women, Formula 1, boxing and other sports.

While LIV Golf may not be their costliest investment, it has generated the most attention; reports indicate the fund invested approximately $5 billion in LIV without seeing any financial returns.

“For the past two years, we’ve seen the beginning of the scaling back of some of the mega projects that were announced in 2021, 2022,” said Kristian Ulrichsen, a Middle East expert at Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy. “That’s exactly when LIV Golf began, as well.”

The PIF confirmed Thursday it would end LIV Golf funding after 2026, concluding weeks of rumors and reports about the Saudis withdrawing support. Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the PIF governor who spearheaded LIV Golf’s creation, no longer appears as chairman of LIV Golf following reports of his resignation.

Players and staff learned two weeks ago that the PIF would only continue supporting LIV Golf through this year’s end. LIV has responded by establishing a new board and developing plans for an investment model aimed at securing long-term partnerships.

The PIF’s substantial funding was crucial for LIV’s ability to attract top players from the PGA Tour. The organization spent $1 billion recruiting stars like Bryson DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka, Phil Mickelson, Cameron Smith and Jon Rahm, who became their final major acquisition in late 2023.

During a recent Wall Street Journal interview, PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp stated: “We’re interested in having the best players who can help our tour. Not every player can do that.”

Five-time major champion Koepka has already returned to the tour from LIV, and Masters winner Patrick Reed plans to rejoin later this year.

Approximately three months ago, Saudi Arabia reduced plans for a futuristic mega-city called The Line, part of the larger “Neom” project that was originally designed to stretch over 100 miles from the Red Sea through desert mountains.

The project included Trojena, a proposed year-round ski resort intended to host the 2029 Asian Winter Games (which were relocated to Kazakhstan). This could have served as preparation for future Olympics or the 2034 World Cup already granted to Saudi Arabia.

Recently, PIF sold 70% of Saudi Pro League team Al-Hilal to a Saudi royal-owned company, creating concerns throughout soccer about the fund’s continued commitment to Newcastle in the English Premier League, where it holds roughly 85% ownership.

“Whether due to the war or reasons related to economic feasibility, we continuously reassess our priorities,” Al-Rumayyan told state-owned Al Arabiya news following the Al-Hilal sale.

Mohammed Soliman, a senior fellow at the Washington-based Middle East Institute, told The Associated Press “Saudi Arabia is constantly reassessing its priorities, and its investment strategy will shift accordingly.”

“The PIF has always been a vehicle of national transformation first, global sports deals were part of that story, but so is pulling capital closer to home when the moment calls for it,” Soliman said.

Experts debate how much the U.S.-Iran conflict influences Saudi decision-making.

Some choices — like reducing the Neom project — occurred earlier this year when oil prices dropped to $60 per barrel, potentially creating budget shortfalls that might require using profits from Aramco, the national oil company.

The conflict has pushed oil prices above $100 but limited Saudi export capabilities as Iran and the U.S. compete for control of the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly 25% of global oil passes.

“Ironically, the fact that the Saudis are still able to export maybe two-thirds of their oil at much higher prices over the last six weeks maybe actually means that their revenues may have gone up,” Ulrichsen said. “But this won’t be forever. The war has definitely heightened the element of uncertainty, and the closer it gets to 2030, the more they’ll want to deliver one or two key things, rather than maybe falling short on six or seven in general.”

Saudi Arabia has established significant presence in sports beyond golf and soccer.

They host a $15 million season-finale tournament for the Women’s Tennis Association, and the PIF holds naming rights for both WTA and men’s ATP tours.

Saudi Arabia has hosted the Dakar Rally and began hosting Formula 1 events in 2021. (This year’s F1 race was canceled due to the war.)

The kingdom has expressed interest in hosting Summer Olympics, potentially as early as 2036.

These investments appear modest compared to their largest sports commitment — hosting the 2034 World Cup. This project requires constructing 10 or 11 new stadiums nationwide, including one in Neom designed to float a quarter-mile above ground.

All these stadium and infrastructure investments make LIV’s $5 billion seem relatively small. However, observers note that LIV’s original vision — creating teams and selling them for profit — never materialized.

“The expense is not on the scale of what they spent on The Line or the (Asian) winter games,” Ulrichsen said. “But it’s significant, and I don’t think there’s an appetite for the prospect of losses continuing for at least another five or 10 years.”

HOUSTON (AP) — Following back-to-back victories that saved their season, the Houston Rockets enter Friday night’s Game 6 against the Los Angeles Lakers with renewed momentum and determination in their first-round playoff battle.

“We put ourselves in a bad position, but we can still make history and come back one game at a time,” Houston big man Alperen Sengun said. “Play at home, come back here, just do the same thing we’re doing.”

Friday’s NBA slate features three crucial Game 6 contests, beginning in the Eastern Conference where the underdog Orlando Magic will attempt once more to eliminate the top-seeded Detroit Pistons. The evening’s second matchup showcases James Harden and the fourth-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers seeking to finish their series against the fifth-seed Toronto Raptors.

The night concludes with Houston’s historic pursuit, as the Rockets aim to join an exclusive group of just four teams in NBA history that have forced a Game 7 after dropping the opening three contests. Notably, all 159 previous teams facing a 3-0 deficit have ultimately lost their series.

Houston will likely continue without superstar Kevin Durant, who has been sidelined for three straight games due to an ankle injury following his absence from the series opener with a knee bruise.

“You cannot take off days anymore,” Houston’s Jabari Smith Jr. said. “If you lose, you go home, and on this team, nobody wants to go home. Everybody is here to fight.”

Despite Austin Reaves returning to action, the Lakers failed to eliminate Houston in Wednesday’s contest. Reaves, the team’s second-leading regular season scorer who had been absent since April 2 with an oblique injury, contributed 22 points on 4-of-16 shooting across 34 bench minutes in the 99-93 defeat.

LeBron James anticipates improved performance from Reaves in Friday’s crucial game after working through initial rust in Game 5.

“A few of his jump shots were short. That makes sense. He hasn’t played in a month,” James said. “He gives us another ball-handler, another attacking threat at the point of attack, so it’s great for us.”

Meanwhile in Toronto, the Raptors maintain optimism following their 125-120 Game 5 setback, though injury concerns loom large.

“I like our odds 100%,” Toronto’s Scottie Barnes said. “We’re going to go home and we’re going to get it done.”

Toronto may face elimination without All-Star Brandon Ingram, who departed Wednesday’s contest during the second quarter with right heel inflammation and never returned after scoring just one point. Barnes also battles injury concerns after taking a knee to the quadriceps while attacking the basket in the second quarter.

“Obviously, we need (Ingram) out on the floor,” Barnes said. “His playmaking ability and his defense and everything he brings.”

Cleveland coach Kenny Atkinson recognizes the mental challenge ahead for his squad following Wednesday’s comeback victory.

“These are high pressure moments,” he said. “You’re down, you can feel the crowd getting nervous. So, I think we took a step (Wednesday). Now the big one is can you go and beat this team on the road? Can we go in there and go take this because we haven’t shown we can yet.”

Detroit staved off elimination behind Cade Cunningham’s franchise playoff-record 45 points in their 116-109 Game 5 triumph.

Orlando now seeks to complete their series victory and capture their first playoff series win since 2010. Success would make them only the second No. 8 seed to advance in the first round after emerging from the play-in tournament, joining Miami’s 2023 accomplishment.

Game Details – Magic at Pistons: 7 p.m. EDT (Prime Video). Series: Magic lead 3-2. Betting line: Pistons by 3 ½. Cunningham, selected first overall in 2021, delivered a franchise-defining performance Wednesday night to extend Detroit’s season. The 24-year-old guard must produce another exceptional showing to force Game 7 as the Pistons chase their first playoff series victory since 2008. After struggling with efficiency in previous contests, Cunningham connected on 13 shots Wednesday following just eight and seven makes in the prior two games. Orlando’s Paolo Banchero, the 2022 top pick, also tallied 45 points in Game 5 but struggled at the free-throw line, missing 7 of 12 attempts. The Magic will depend heavily on his scoring with Franz Wagner’s availability uncertain due to a strained right calf that kept him out of the last game. Wagner contributed 17 points and 5.5 rebounds across the first four contests as Orlando built their 3-1 series advantage.

Game Details – Cavaliers at Raptors: 7:30 p.m. (Prime Video). Series: Cavaliers lead 3-2. Betting line: Cavaliers by 3 ½. Cleveland aims to close the series by accomplishing what no team has managed through five games: winning on the opponent’s home court. This remains the only first-round series where the home team has won every game. Atkinson emphasizes turnover reduction as a key focus after Cleveland overcame a 12-point second-half deficit despite surrendering 28 points off 15 turnovers to Toronto. The Raptors face elimination while dealing with injuries to both Ingram and Barnes.

Game Details – Lakers at Rockets: 9:30 p.m. EDT (Prime Video). Series: Lakers lead 3-2. Betting line: Rockets by 3 ½. Without Durant, Houston has utilized balanced scoring to secure their last two victories, with all five starters reaching double figures in both contests. The Rockets must maintain this approach while continuing their improved three-point shooting, having connected on 26 attempts over the past two games compared to just 18 in the previous two contests. Los Angeles needs cleaner execution to end the series after accumulating 38 turnovers in their two losses. “You give credit where credit is due,” James said. “They played well the last two games, exceptionally well, and we’ve got to answer the call.”

VANCOUVER, British Columbia — FIFA President Gianni Infantino has formally launched his campaign for re-election in 2027, with the voting scheduled to take place in Morocco, marking the second consecutive FIFA presidential election held in Africa where Infantino has cultivated strong political relationships.

Speaking to international soccer officials on Thursday, Infantino confirmed his candidacy for what would be his third term, with the election meeting of FIFA’s 211 member nations scheduled for March 18 in Morocco, a co-host nation for the 2030 World Cup.

“I am honored and humbled at the same time,” Infantino stated to the assembled global soccer leadership while announcing his expected bid for another term.

FIFA’s robust financial position, featuring billions in reserves strengthened by projected high revenues from the 2026 World Cup in North America, enables the organization to distribute a minimum of $8 million to each member federation during Infantino’s current presidential term.

Last year, FIFA compensated Infantino more than $6 million for his role, which has elevated his international standing through regular meetings with high-profile leaders including U.S. President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, whose nation will host the 2034 World Cup.

The location choice for the 2027 FIFA Congress breaks from the expected rotation, as Europe or Oceania appeared likely to host following recent annual gatherings in Canada, Paraguay, Thailand, Rwanda and Qatar.

FIFA selected Rwanda’s capital Kigali for its 2023 election where Infantino won unanimous support. He has formed a strategic partnership with the Confederation of African Football led by South African mining mogul Patrice Motsepe since 2021. That CAF election also took place in Morocco, which has emerged as Africa’s dominant soccer nation.

The 54 African voting members among FIFA’s 211 total have historically played a crucial role in determining FIFA presidential outcomes.

Both CAF and Motsepe announced their backing for Infantino during this week’s Vancouver meetings, even before Thursday’s formal opening of the election period at the FIFA Congress.

Morocco has benefited significantly during Infantino’s tenure and will host the 2027 FIFA Congress in Rabat, where the soccer organization established its African regional headquarters last year.

The North African country will jointly host the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, with aspirations to hold the championship match at a massive 115,000-seat stadium under construction in Casablanca. Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu Stadium represents another potential venue for the final.

Next year’s FIFA gathering of officials, corporate partners and journalists will serve as a promotional platform for Moroccan soccer and its prominent leader Fouzi Lekjaa, who simultaneously serves as a government budget minister under King Mohammed VI’s appointment.

Lekjaa holds the position of Motsepe’s top vice president at CAF and serves on FIFA’s 37-member Council, chaired by Infantino, which sets strategic direction for the global soccer organization.

Under Lekjaa’s dozen years leading Morocco’s soccer federation, the national men’s team achieved World Cup history in 2022 by becoming the first African squad to advance to the semifinals.

That breakthrough performance strengthened Morocco’s bid to join the Spain-Portugal hosting partnership for the World Cup, which had been anticipated to remain in Europe. Morocco had previously failed in multiple hosting attempts since the 1990s, including the 2026 tournament where they were the sole challenger to the successful North American bid from the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Morocco has also secured a five-year agreement with FIFA to host the annual Under-17 Women’s World Cup.

This year, Morocco hosted the men’s African Cup of Nations, which concluded with a disputed and chaotic final. While Senegal claimed victory on the field, Morocco received the title through a CAF appeals committee decision, with the final outcome awaiting Senegal’s pending appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland.

Infantino’s presidency is projected to span 15 years when he reaches his statutory term limits in 2031.

Following Infantino’s initial election victory in Zurich during February 2016, FIFA members simultaneously approved a 12-year presidential term restriction as part of comprehensive governance reforms mandated by U.S. federal corruption investigations that implicated top soccer officials globally.

Infantino’s original three-year term extending through 2019 — which completed Sepp Blatter’s interrupted presidency following his removal amid the investigation fallout — was ultimately ruled not to count against the 12-year limitation. His first re-election victory occurred in Paris.

USC wide receiver Makai Lemon has made history as the first player from the 2026 NFL Draft class to finalize his rookie contract with an NFL team.

According to NFL Network’s Thursday report, Lemon has completed his four-year agreement with the Philadelphia Eagles after being selected 20th overall in this year’s draft.

The former Trojan standout’s contract is valued at more than $20.81 million in guaranteed compensation, featuring an $11.5 million signing bonus. The agreement also contains a fifth-year option that the team can exercise.

During his final collegiate season, the 21-year-old earned the prestigious Biletnikoff Award as college football’s premier wide receiver, marking only the second time a USC player claimed the honor since Marqise Lee accomplished the feat in 2012.

Lemon’s impressive 2025 campaign included 79 receptions for 1,156 receiving yards and 11 touchdown catches while playing for Southern California.

The young receiver is expected to play an immediate role in Philadelphia’s offense, particularly with star wideout A.J. Brown’s potential exit looming. DeVonta Smith appears positioned to lead the Eagles’ receiving corps, which has also added veterans Marquise “Hollywood” Brown and Elijah Moore to the roster.

Duke University has entered into a historic agreement with Amazon that will see three Blue Devils men’s basketball games broadcast on Prime Video during the upcoming season.

This groundbreaking collaboration represents Amazon’s inaugural venture into live college sports broadcasting. The streaming service will feature Duke’s matchup with UConn on November 25 in Las Vegas, their contest against defending national champion Michigan at Madison Square Garden in New York City on December 21, and their game versus Gonzaga on February 20 in Detroit.

“In addition to our outstanding partnership with ESPN, we are excited to work with Prime Video on this groundbreaking initiative,” Duke athletic director Nina King said. “As Prime Video’s first college sports partner, this collaboration not only expands the global reach of Duke Men’s Basketball, but also creates meaningful opportunities for our student-athletes in a way that reflects innovation and excellence.”

The agreement revealed on Thursday encompasses more than just game broadcasts, including Name, Image and Likeness opportunities for Duke student-athletes and an expanded retail partnership that will be detailed in future announcements.

Prime Video has established itself in sports broadcasting since 2017 with NFL coverage, including “Thursday Night Football.” The platform recently launched an 11-year media agreement with the NBA this season.

Duke stands among college basketball’s most successful programs in NCAA Division I history, reaching 18 Final Four appearances and claiming five national titles. The Blue Devils completed this past season with a 35-3 record before falling to UConn in the Elite Eight round.

PHILADELPHIA — Defenseman Cam York fired home the overtime winner that sparked a Philadelphia celebration more than a decade in the making, then broke free from his celebrating teammates to hurl his stick high into the crowd.

York threw his stick skyward, watching it sail like a home run ball, though nobody knew exactly where it would land in the moment.

“I hope everyone’s OK,” York said with a laugh. “Definitely don’t want a lawsuit. Just honestly blacked out. I didn’t know what to do. I was so excited.”

How does a team mark their first playoff series victory in over a decade?

York wound up like he was throwing a boomerang. Philadelphia fans sounded horns and whistles throughout the arena while repeatedly chanting the opening notes of the White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army.” Forward Christian Dvorak’s celebration got a bit too intense — he suffered a cut above his right eye during the on-ice festivities, leaving blood running down his face.

It looked like he’d been in a boxing match.

More accurately, it was six demanding games against Sidney Crosby and a Pittsburgh squad that has claimed Stanley Cup championships and dominated their Pennsylvania rivals so frequently over the past 15 years that their meetings often seemed less like an intense rivalry and more like the Flyers serving as a minor obstacle during the regular season.

This year was different. This was in Philadelphia.

Not even when the rejuvenated Penguins threatened to make playoff history by rallying from a 3-0 series deficit and crushing the hopes of a Flyers squad that became the NHL’s first team to reach the postseason after sitting 10 points outside playoff position with 22 games or fewer left.

York and netminder Dan Vladar, who stopped 42 shots, had different ideas.

The Flyers’ 1-0 Game 6 overtime triumph over Pittsburgh on Wednesday evening provided early proof that general manager Danny Briere made smart moves in executing a long-overdue reconstruction, resulting in their first playoff series victory in a complete NHL campaign since 2012. Philadelphia exceeded their postseason expectations — largely thanks to the mid-season emergence of teenage star Porter Martone — and are essentially playing with bonus time as they prepare for a second-round matchup against top-seeded Carolina.

“We played a great series,” Flyers forward Travis Konecny said. “Now we get a chance to play again.”

Flyers coach Rick Tocchet and his players unanimously agreed when they held a 3-0 series advantage that Crosby and the experienced Penguins were too skilled and playoff-seasoned to surrender easily. Crosby dominated Pittsburgh’s 3-2 Game 5 victory and had the Penguins convinced they could join just the fifth NHL team ever to win a series after falling behind 3-0.

Vladar, a well-traveled goaltender turned Olympian who earned team MVP honors this season, stopped everything Pittsburgh sent his way throughout most of the series. He recorded his first shutout of the year with 27 saves in Game 2, overcame an undisclosed arm injury in Game 3, and carried the Flyers in Game 6 — outdueling the excellent Arturs Silovs — to stabilize a position that had been problematic for the organization since their Stanley Cup championship era with Bernie Parent.

Vladar managed to blank the NHL’s third-highest scoring offense from the regular season.

“There was never a doubt,” Vladar said. “Good things happen to good people, and we are good people here.”

Vladar also acknowledged the long odds Philadelphia faced just to reach this stage and noted teammates wearing their lucky clothing.

The Flyers celebrated in T-shirts featuring Parent’s 1970s mask design with “3.8 percent” printed on the sleeves, referencing their minimal playoff chances from two months earlier.

Vladar — the fifth goaltender in franchise history to record a series-clinching shutout — also made the fourth-most saves in a series-ending shutout victory over the last 70 years. Only Patrick Roy (63 saves in Game 4 of the 1996 Stanley Cup Final), Andrei Vasilevskiy, and Carey Price have made more.

“danvladar you are a BAADDDDD man!!” former Phillies World Series champion Jimmy Rollins posted on social media.

The Flyers remained euphoric long after the final buzzer.

Regarding York’s stick? It found its target and was enthusiastically caught by a fan in a white Flyers sweatshirt.

He celebrated with high-fives from surrounding fans and secured quite the playoff memento.

Philadelphia can only hope May brings much more excitement ahead.

The controversial LIV Golf league is working rapidly to secure its future after learning that its massive Saudi Arabian financial support will disappear following the 2026 season, officials announced Thursday.

Industry insiders revealed to Reuters Wednesday that Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which has provided over $1 billion annually since the league’s 2022 launch, plans to withdraw its backing when the current agreement expires.

In response to the funding crisis, LIV Golf announced Thursday it was moving away from its startup phase toward what it called a “diversified, multi-partner investment model.” The organization also revealed the formation of a new independent governing board headed by business veterans Gene Davis and Jon Zinman.

“LIV Golf has built something truly differentiated – a global league with passionate fans, world-class talent, and demonstrated commercial momentum,” stated Davis, who will serve as board chairman.

“The executive leadership team, along with Jon and I, see a clear opportunity to help the league formalize its structure, attract and secure long-term capital, and position the business for growth.”

The upstart golf organization shocked the professional golf community in late 2021 when it used Saudi billions to lure away top talent from the established PGA Tour circuit.

Notable champions including Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm, Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka and Patrick Reed all signed lucrative deals to participate in the team-based format that offers substantial prize pools for events worldwide.

The organization now faces the challenge of convincing these high-profile athletes, who signed expensive multi-year agreements, that LIV Golf remains financially stable without Saudi funding backing it.

Several prominent players have already chosen to return to the traditional PGA Tour structure.

Koepka, a five-time major champion, has already rejoined through a special Returning Member Program this season, while former Masters winner Reed has announced plans to restore his PGA Tour membership beginning in 2027.

League officials claim they’ve achieved a 100% revenue increase compared to last year and believe their team-oriented approach will appeal to potential investors.

“We are now leveraging this momentum to engage in constructive, forward-looking discussions with prospective global investors and partners who share our vision for an inclusive and modernized game,” the organization stated.

“For our fans, players and partners, our commitment to world-class golf remains unchanged as this process unfolds.”

CLEVELAND — While James Harden received most of the spotlight when Cleveland made moves before the NBA trade deadline, it was Dennis Schroder who saved the Cavaliers from potential disaster Wednesday night.

The veteran guard delivered 11 crucial fourth-quarter points as Cleveland mounted a comeback to defeat Toronto 125-120 in their playoff matchup, putting the Cavaliers in prime position to advance.

“This guy’s played in huge games in the NBA and then on the international scene, so this type of game fits him,” Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson said. “I think it started with him getting to the rim and then that loosened up the jumper for him. And then I thought his defense on (RJ) Barrett really got under him, harassed him. He really was Dennis the Menace tonight.”

The guard, who came to Cleveland from Sacramento on February 1st alongside Keon Ellis, put up 19 points while shooting 7-of-11 from the field, connecting on three shots from beyond the arc in just 21 minutes of action. This marked Schroder’s 17th career playoff game with at least 19 points, matching his 20-point performance for Detroit against New York in last year’s postseason.

The scoring output represented Schroder’s third-highest total since joining the Cavaliers roster.

“I love big games, I love the playoffs. You’ve just got to embrace it,” Schroder said. “I’ve been through a lot of big games of my career, and I’ve seen it. I think experience matters, but at the end of the day, the urgency and the energy, you’ve got to have it.”

Perhaps Schroder’s most significant impact occurred during halftime, with Cleveland facing a 74-67 deficit. The 13-year NBA veteran delivered an extensive two-to-three minute analysis in the locker room, outlining exactly what the team needed to mount a successful comeback.

“I just wanted to see Cavs basketball, how we played when we first got here. We did a great job even throughout this season when we first got here, but I think we got a little bit away from that,” Schroder said. “We need the big guys. Jarrett (Allen) and Evan Mobley are the key to our team. We’ve got two superstars with Don (Donovan Mitchell) and with Uno (James Harden), but those two big guys, we’ve got to use them.”

Mobley responded by contributing six of his 23 total points in the final quarter, both coming from three-point range. His long-range shot with 10:21 left on the clock, set up by a Schroder pass, put Cleveland ahead 106-103 for good.

Schroder followed with a layup that pushed the Cavaliers’ advantage to five points.

“I was just trying to be aggressive. I just wanted to come out and bring the energy, try to help as much as I can to get the W,” Schroder said.

The guard remained on the court for the final 16 minutes of action. When coach Atkinson attempted to reinsert Mitchell and Mobley during the fourth quarter, Mitchell opted to let the successful lineup continue playing.

“Sometimes the best offense is just going to stand over there. There’s a trust level that I have, and we all have with this group,” said Mitchell, who finished with 19 points. “And like I said, it’s the playoffs, man. It doesn’t matter if it’s me, whoever it is, as long as we’re getting quality looks and figuring it out. And that’s what we saw throughout tonight.”

Schroder admitted he was unaware of Mitchell’s decision to remain on the bench until someone informed him after the game concluded.

“I’m the same way, though. When somebody is balling and even when the coach tells me to get in, I’m letting the guy cook. Whoever cooks, and I appreciate that from Don,” Schroder said. “That means a lot. He is a superstar. Not a lot of superstars do that who I’ve been around.”

The Cavaliers will attempt to wrap up the series when they travel to Toronto for Friday night’s game.

PITTSBURGH — A rookie outfielder is quickly building a reputation for spectacular defensive plays that change games.

Nathan Church, the 25-year-old left fielder for the St. Louis Cardinals, delivered another jaw-dropping moment Wednesday night when he leaped at the wall to snatch away what appeared to be a certain walk-off home run from Pittsburgh’s Nick Gonzales, securing a 5-4 Cardinals victory over the Pirates.

This marks Church’s third dramatic home run robbery this season. Just four days prior, he denied Seattle’s Mitch Garver a potential game-tying blast in the sixth inning during an 11-9 loss to the Mariners, a game where Church also achieved his first career two-home run performance.

His defensive heroics began on opening day when he made a spectacular grab at the wall’s peak against Tampa Bay’s Ryan Vilade, preventing what would have been a game-tying shot.

Wednesday’s catch was particularly impressive given the circumstances. Gonzales’ blast cleared the 6-foot wall by 373 feet from home plate and, according to MLB Statcast data, would have resulted in a home run at 27 of the 30 major league stadiums, with only PNC Park, Camden Yards in Baltimore, and Globe Life Field in Texas being exceptions.

Cardinals closer Riley O’Brien, who earned his eighth save thanks to Church’s heroics, stood on the mound with his arms raised and a look of disbelief as the young outfielder casually trotted away from the wall, ball securely in his glove.

Church, who was selected by the Cardinals in the 11th round of the 2022 draft, earned recognition for his exceptional defensive abilities throughout his minor league career. Currently experiencing his most productive offensive stretch, he’s batting .281 with four home runs over his last eight contests.

VANCOUVER, April 30 – Record-breaking ticket costs and travel expenses for this year’s World Cup are creating dangerous opportunities for cybercriminals to target soccer enthusiasts, according to a fraud prevention specialist.

The unprecedented high prices make fans vulnerable to fake ticket schemes as they search desperately for affordable options, warned Nuno Sebastiao, CEO and co-founder of Feedzai, a company that partners with global banks to combat financial crimes.

“Large gatherings like a World Cup are a scammer’s dream,” Sebastiao explained to Reuters. His firm specializes in identifying and stopping fraudulent activities for financial institutions worldwide.

“The cost of these events, it’s fairly high. And people are always trying to get a good deal somehow. And that’s what these criminals prey on,” he continued.

“A football fan is not a high-income person like you’d see in other sports. So there’s more propensity to be the victim of a scam because you really want to go, you really want to see the game, but you just don’t have the money.”

While fraudulent activities surround all major international sporting competitions, Sebastiao emphasized that this World Cup presents heightened risks due to its record-setting expense levels.

FIFA has not yet provided a response regarding protective measures for tournament attendees or safety recommendations for fans.

Research published this month by The Knoble, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting financial crimes, predicts the World Cup will generate over 28,500 questionable financial transactions worldwide.

Sebastiao identified ticketing fraud, travel scams, and online schemes as the primary threat categories. He noted that many operations are orchestrated by sophisticated criminal organizations, some with government backing.

“We’re talking about global network sponsored by … Iran, North Korea, where our system of justice cannot reach,” he stated.

“But we also see operations in Latin America, some African countries, some Eastern European countries that have familiarity with some of the languages spoken at these events.”

According to Sebastiao, cyber fraud surrounding major sporting events also contributes to serious human rights violations.

“There’s slave labour involved in these gigantic call centres,” he revealed.

“They take their passports and force them to work slave hours to commit phishing and scamming attacks.”

Criminal networks also exploit vulnerable individuals at event locations, particularly in commercial sex trafficking.

“When we see people being arrested some of them are themselves victims,” Sebastiao explained.

“They’re victims of human trafficking. They’re forced to do that because they’re illegal immigrants.

“Whenever there’s these large gatherings there are people that are trafficked for the purpose of sexual exploitation.”

During the Super Bowl held in northern California earlier this year, Santa Clara County’s Human Trafficking Task Force arrested 29 traffickers and rescued 73 victims of sex trafficking, including 10 children.

Law enforcement plans to implement similar anti-trafficking operations when the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium hosts six World Cup matches in June and July.

A group of Iranian soccer federation officials were denied entry into Canada this week at Toronto’s airport, preventing them from attending an important FIFA meeting in Vancouver ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

The delegation included Iran’s football federation president Mehdi Taj, secretary general Hedayat Mombeni, and deputy secretary general Hamed Momeni. According to Iran’s Tasnim News Agency, the officials possessed valid visas but chose to return to Turkey after what they described as inappropriate treatment by Canadian border authorities.

The Iranian soccer federation released a statement explaining their decision to leave: “While Mehdi Taj, president, Hedayat Mombeni, secretary general, and Hamed Momeni, deputy secretary general of the federation, had travelled to Toronto with official visas to attend the FIFA Congress, they returned to Turkey on the first available flight due to the unacceptable behaviour of immigration officials at the airport and the insult to one of the most honourable organs of the Iranian nation’s armed forces.”

The controversy centers around Taj’s previous role as a member of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which Canada classified as a terrorist organization in June 2024.

Canadian officials defended their immigration policies in response to the incident. “While we cannot comment on individual cases due to privacy laws, the government has been clear and consistent: IRGC officials are inadmissible to Canada and have no place in our country,” the Canadian government stated. “We have taken strong action to hold the IRGC to account and will continue to do so, while protecting the safety of Canadians and upholding the integrity of our immigration system.”

Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree reinforced that Revolutionary Guard members were not welcome in Canada, though he could not discuss specific cases due to privacy laws.

The Raoul Wallenberg Centre for Human Rights criticized Canada’s initial decision to grant Taj special permission to enter the country. “This case should have been straightforward. The decision to grant him entry at all was profoundly troubling. It undermines Canada’s designation of the IRGC as a terrorist entity and contradicts our country’s commitment to combatting impunity for serious human rights abuses in Iran,” the organization stated.

This Tuesday incident highlights growing concerns about Iran’s ability to participate fully in the upcoming World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The tournament represents the most politically sensitive issue FIFA faces, particularly given ongoing tensions involving Iran.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated last week that while Iranian players would be permitted to compete in the World Cup, individuals with Revolutionary Guard connections would not be allowed to accompany them.

The Iranian delegation was traveling to attend Thursday’s FIFA Congress in Vancouver, an annual gathering that brings together representatives from all 211 member associations. This year’s meeting carries additional significance with the expanded 48-team World Cup scheduled to begin in less than two months.

FIFA has since reached out to the Iranian delegation to express disappointment over the situation and indicated that President Gianni Infantino would arrange a meeting at FIFA headquarters, according to Tasnim’s reporting. A FIFA Congress source told Reuters that the organization sent a representative to Toronto to help resolve the situation, but those efforts were unsuccessful.

The incident also prevented Iranian officials from participating in Tuesday’s Asian Football Confederation Congress, which took place in Vancouver.

One AFC Congress delegate, speaking anonymously due to the sensitive nature of the topic, expressed concerns about future travel: “If it’s like this in Canada where it’s supposed to be easy, how is it going to be for the World Cup in the U.S.?”

Palestinian Football Association President Jibril Rajoub told Reuters that visa complications have overshadowed the FIFA Congress. “No one knows whether they will issue visas for this or that,” he said. “Building a wall between politics and this world (of sport) is a benefit for everybody, including the three countries who are hosting the World Cup. Let us at least present something united to the world.”

Iranian officials in Tehran have been seeking assurances for their national team’s participation in the World Cup and have explored the possibility of moving their matches scheduled for the United States to alternative locations due to security and travel concerns.

FIFA has maintained its position against any schedule changes, emphasizing that all participating teams must follow the established match calendar.

The controversy raises broader questions about how geopolitical tensions will affect the tournament, particularly regarding the free movement of players, officials, and supporters across the three host nations during the competition.

TAMPA, Fla. — The Tampa Bay Lightning find themselves facing potential playoff elimination following yet another disappointing home defeat in the postseason.

Star goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy surrendered an unusual goal on the same day he earned a Vezina Trophy nomination, while Tampa Bay struggled in the faceoff circle and couldn’t capitalize on scoring chances in a 3-2 defeat to the Montreal Canadiens on Wednesday evening. The loss puts the Lightning down 3-2 in the playoff series.

Friday night’s Game 6 takes place in Montreal, where Tampa Bay must win to stay alive. The Lightning are working to prevent their fourth consecutive first-round playoff exit since coming up short in their Stanley Cup three-peat attempt in 2022.

“We got to drag them back here,” forward Corey Perry said. “You know it’s going to be a hostile environment. It’s loud but block it out and just go play. We found a way last game there. We got to do it again.”

While Tampa Bay managed to win Game 4 on Montreal’s home ice, they’ve now dropped 10 of their past 12 playoff contests at home.

Alexandre Texier netted the decisive goal just 1:06 into the final period with a slap shot from the left circle that deflected off Vasilevskiy’s glove and slipped past one of hockey’s elite goaltenders.

Lightning head coach Jon Cooper pointed to defensive breakdowns as the root cause of the goal-against.

“It stems way before that. It doesn’t stem from when Texier gets down the ice. It stems from the change and how we went about it and the mistakes we made on the way there,” Cooper said. “Forever, all Vasy does is bail us out of those. The rare time sometimes he doesn’t. He should’ve never got that deep into our zone and he got a lot on it. It wasn’t like Vasy got beat. He had it and it took a Montreal bounce, unfortunately for us.”

Montreal controlled the faceoff battle decisively, capturing 66% of draws. In this tightly contested series where all five games have been decided by a single goal and the opening three required overtime, every possession carries weight.

“Possession is huge,” forward Brayden Point said. “There’s not a lot of room out there. Starting with the puck is massive.”

Tampa Bay fired 40 shots at rookie netminder Jakub Dobes but managed to solve him only twice, with goals from Dominic James and Jake Guentzel.

The Lightning saw shots clang off the goalpost and crossbar, while Nikita Kucherov watched the puck hop over his stick with an empty net beckoning.

“We need other guys to score and haven’t been able to do it,” Point said. “It is frustrating. Just got to keep doing the right things and keep working hard.”

Tampa Bay has now dropped their previous two elimination contests. Should they manage another victory in Montreal, they would return home for Game 7 on Sunday.

“I understand the next game is a potential elimination game but the last game we played there, we lose that one and we’re down 3-1 (and) you’re really chasing the series,” Cooper said. “They’ve been in that building twice now and have a pretty good feeling of what to expect. How it’s going to go? I can’t say for sure but I’ll bet we play better than we did tonight.”

DETROIT — When elimination loomed large, Cade Cunningham delivered the performance of his career. The Detroit guard exploded for a franchise playoff-record 45 points Wednesday night, leading the top-seeded Pistons to a crucial 116-109 victory over the eighth-seeded Orlando Magic in Game 5 of their first-round playoff series.

The victory keeps Detroit’s season alive, though they still face an uphill battle. Orlando maintains a 3-2 series lead and will have another opportunity to close out the series at home Friday night. Should the Pistons capture their first road victory of the series, a winner-take-all Game 7 would return to Detroit on Sunday.

“We dug ourselves a hole and now it’s time to climb our way out,” Cunningham said. “It’s possible.”

In a remarkable display of offensive firepower, Orlando’s Paolo Banchero matched Cunningham’s 45-point output, establishing a new playoff career high. However, Banchero’s struggles at the charity stripe proved costly, as he converted just 5 of 12 free throw attempts. His scoring effort fell just one point shy of the franchise playoff record held by Tracy McGrady and Dwight Howard.

The Magic’s poor execution in key areas ultimately cost them the game. Orlando was dominated on the boards by 16 rebounds and managed only 16 successful free throws on 30 attempts.

“We got to be better on the glass and obviously, better on the free-throw line,” said Banchero, drafted No. 1 overall by Orlando in 2022. “If we make our free throws, we got a real chance of winning the game. We lost by seven, and missed 14 free throws. That’s the game.”

Cunningham’s explosive performance shattered a Detroit playoff scoring record that had endured since Dave Bing’s 44-point game in 1968. The previous closest approach came from Isiah Thomas, who scored 43 points in 1988.

The dual 45-point performances created NBA playoff history, marking only the second time two players reached that scoring threshold in the same postseason game. The only previous occurrence featured Utah’s Donovan Mitchell (51 points) and Denver’s Jamal Murray (50 points) in 2020.

Cunningham’s efficiency was remarkable throughout the contest. The 2021 first overall pick connected on 13 of 23 field goal attempts, drained a playoff career-best five three-pointers, and maintained perfect accuracy from the free-throw line at 14-for-14.

“We’re going to see this a long time,” Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff said. “He’s going to do a lot of special things.”

The 24-year-old guard had previously struggled in crucial late-game moments during this series and last year’s first-round matchup with the New York Knicks. However, he demonstrated remarkable composure when his team needed it most to extend their playoff run.

Detroit controlled the game from start to finish, never surrendering the lead. The Pistons built advantages of 17 points during the first half and 15 points early in the fourth quarter.

Orlando mounted a late charge, pulling within three points on Banchero’s sixth three-pointer with 1:09 remaining on the clock.

Following an offensive rebound scramble by Ausar Thompson, Cunningham delivered the decisive blow with a step-back 16-foot jumper that effectively sealed the victory.

“Not everybody is blessed with those opportunities to have pressure and have things on the line like that,” Cunningham said. “I’m just thankful for it and trying to make the most out of it.

“We’ve had a great season so far and none of us want it to end.”

Detroit hopes to replicate their historic comeback against Orlando from over two decades ago. The Pistons’ 2003 rally from a 3-1 deficit against the eighth-seeded Magic marked the first of seven such comebacks in NBA playoff history this century. Denver accomplished the feat most recently six years ago in the same series featuring Mitchell and Murray’s 50-plus point performances, becoming the first franchise to complete two such comebacks in a single postseason.

“You don’t want to put yourself in this situation, but this is what we expected,” Bickerstaff said. “When our backs are against the wall, we come out swinging. We come out kicking. We come out scratching, biting, clawing.”

McLaren Formula One team brought their racing legacy directly to Miami’s streets Wednesday, featuring championship-winning vehicles and both current and former racing champions in a spectacular public demonstration.

Current champion Lando Norris and his teammate Oscar Piastri were joined by two-time champions Mika Hakkinen and Emerson Fittipaldi for the fan event, which was originally planned to commemorate what should have been the team’s 1,000th grand prix celebration. However, due to ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the April races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were canceled, postponing this historic milestone.

The 1,000th race achievement, previously reached only by Ferrari, will now be officially recognized in Monaco this June – the same location where Bruce McLaren’s team from New Zealand made their debut in 1966.

“We were meant, obviously, to celebrate it here,” Norris explained to Reuters before driving his 2025 vehicle – complete with dramatic spins – at Regatta Harbour in Miami’s historic Coconut Grove district. “It’s nice that I’ve played a small part in that but today is also a day where you get to see all the cars, the history, the drivers that have driven for McLaren. It’s a big milestone and I’m very proud of it.”

The 79-year-old Fittipaldi, who became McLaren’s inaugural champion in 1974, operated a V8-powered McLaren M23 that resembled the car which carried the late James Hunt to victory in 1976.

“I was the first one, I made a small part of McLaren history but then McLaren has a huge history and I’m very proud to be here,” said Fittipaldi, whose initial championship came with Lotus in 1972.

Hakkinen, champion in both 1998 and 1999, created thunderous sounds with his V10-equipped MP4-14, while Bruno Senna, nephew of Brazil’s legendary three-time champion Ayrton, operated his uncle’s MP4/6 featuring its powerful V12 engine. Additionally, Brazilian driver Tony Kanaan, who won the 2013 Indianapolis 500, demonstrated an Arrow McLaren IndyCar.

“To just be alongside them, even just to be able to talk to them is really cool,” Piastri commented about the experience.

Both Norris and Piastri, with Piastri driving Lewis Hamilton’s 2008 championship car, performed together on the track, acknowledging the enthusiastic crowd before participating in stage interviews.

“It was nice to see so many people and it was just good to have a bit of fun,” Norris shared. “Normally we have to be all serious and drive properly… we don’t get to just go out and do (tyre) burnouts and stuff. I won the championship last year and wasn’t allowed to do any burnouts. So it was nice to just let loose and have a nice day out.”

McLaren has claimed victory in the previous two Miami Grand Prix events – Piastri in the most recent race and Norris in 2024 – and Sunday’s competition could result in three consecutive wins, though Mercedes has shown dominance since the beginning of the current engine and regulations period.

Piastri remained cautious about making predictions for the upcoming weekend, which may include thunderstorms and will serve as the initial test following recent rule modifications.

“I think last year, and even 2024, we had a really big advantage around a place like this and this year we don’t have that so we’ll have to wait and see,” Piastri explained. “I think it’s going to be a weekend full of changes and trying to get on top of things better than everybody else. And if we can do that then there’s still going to be opportunities to finish higher than maybe where you should.”

TAMPA, Fla. — Alexandre Texier netted the decisive goal just 1:06 into the final period as Montreal defeated Tampa Bay 3-2 on Wednesday evening, giving the Canadiens a 3-2 advantage in their first-round playoff matchup.

First-year goaltender Jakub Dobes made 38 saves to push Montreal one win away from their first playoff series victory since falling to Tampa Bay in the 2021 Stanley Cup Finals.

Brendan Gallagher found the net in his series debut while Kirby Dach contributed another goal for Montreal.

The series returns to Montreal for Game 6 on Friday night, where the clubs previously split their two contests. Each of the five games has been settled by a single goal, with the opening three requiring overtime.

Dominic James notched his inaugural playoff goal and Jake Guentzel added a score for the Lightning, who face elimination in the opening round for the fourth consecutive year with another loss.

The Lightning have dropped 10 of their past 12 postseason home contests despite selling out 460 straight games.

Texier received a lengthy pass from Lane Hutson, moved into the left circle and fired a shot that deflected off Andrei Vasilevskiy’s glove before crossing the goal line for the 3-2 advantage early in the third period.

Montreal struck first three minutes into the contest when Gallagher converted a rebound after Vasilevskiy deflected Alex Newhook’s backhand attempt. The 14-year veteran had been a healthy scratch for the first four games and spent his time mentoring younger teammates.

Moments after James fired a slap shot past Dobes on a 2-on-1 rush, Montreal answered back. Dach carried the puck down the left wing, maneuvered around a defender, lost possession, then kicked the puck from his skate to his stick before scoring in front of the net.

Following online harassment over a defensive mistake that led to Tampa Bay’s overtime winner in Game 2, Dach deactivated his Instagram account. He responded with a goal and assist in Montreal’s 3-2 overtime victory the following game.

Guentzel unleashed a slap shot through Dobes’ legs on another 2-on-1 opportunity to level the score at 2 late in the second period. Among American-born players, Guentzel holds the NHL’s best playoff scoring rate with 43 goals across 79 postseason games.

Tampa Bay successfully killed a four-minute penalty after Ryan McDonagh received a double minor for high-sticking in the opening period. Montreal managed only one shot during the extended power play.

The Canadiens created superior scoring opportunities during two Tampa Bay power plays in the second period, with Vasilevskiy denying Jake Evans on a short-handed breakaway.

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Lakers will welcome back guard Austin Reaves on Wednesday evening as they look to close out their first-round playoff matchup against the Houston Rockets in Game 5.

Reaves has been sidelined for nine consecutive games due to a strained oblique muscle, an injury he sustained on April 2. His absence included the Lakers’ final five regular season contests and all four games of their current playoff series. The guard had resumed practicing with the team last week and participated in pregame warmups during the previous two road games in Houston before being declared unavailable.

The injury occurred during the same contest where NBA scoring leader Luka Doncic suffered a right hamstring strain. Doncic remains sidelined with no clear timeline for his return.

Despite missing their leading scorer, the Lakers managed to win the opening three games of the series before Houston responded with a victory in Game 4, forcing the series to return to Los Angeles.

This season, Reaves posted impressive numbers with 23.3 points per game along with 5.5 assists and 4.7 rebounds. However, injuries limited him to just 51 games during the regular season. In addition to his current oblique issue, a left calf strain kept him out of action for 19 consecutive games spanning from Christmas through February.

Milwaukee Brewers left-handed pitcher Angel Zerpa has been sidelined with left forearm tightness, prompting the team to add him to the 15-day injured list on Wednesday.

The roster move was made effective Tuesday. To fill the roster spot, Milwaukee promoted southpaw Brian Fitzpatrick from their Triple-A affiliate in Nashville.

Zerpa, who joined Milwaukee through a winter trade with Kansas City, has struggled this season with a 0-2 record and two saves. The reliever posted a 6.39 ERA across 12 appearances, recording eight strikeouts and six walks in 12 2/3 innings of work.

Brewers skipper Pat Murphy expressed concern about the severity of the injury before Wednesday’s matchup with Arizona. “This looks like it could be serious. He’s not going to be back any time soon,” Murphy stated. “Big blow, but we’re kind of used to that.”

The 26-year-old Venezuelan pitcher’s most recent outing came Monday against Pittsburgh, where he surrendered three runs on one hit and a walk while striking out one batter in just 2/3 of an inning during Milwaukee’s 6-3 extra-inning defeat to the Pirates.

Throughout his professional career, Zerpa holds a 12-9 record with two saves and a 4.13 ERA. He has accumulated 158 strikeouts and 59 walks across 189 2/3 innings in 160 regular-season games (including eight starts) between Kansas City (2021-25) and Milwaukee. During Kansas City’s 2024 playoff run, he contributed with a 2-0 record and 2.25 ERA in five postseason appearances.

Fitzpatrick brings impressive Triple-A numbers to Milwaukee, posting a 1-1 record with a perfect 0.00 ERA in 10 relief outings for Nashville. The 6-foot-7 pitcher allowed just two unearned runs while striking out 11 batters and walking two in 10 1/3 innings. The 25-year-old has yet to make his major league debut.

In additional roster news, the Brewers announced that outfielder Luis Matos passed through waivers unclaimed and was assigned to Triple-A Nashville. The 24-year-old Matos batted .200 with four hits in 20 at-bats over nine games during his first Milwaukee campaign, following previous stints with San Francisco from 2023-25.

Television audiences for this year’s NFL Draft fell by 12% compared to 2025, with an average of 6.6 million people tuning in across the three-day event, Front Office Sports reported.

The decline from last year’s average of 7.5 million viewers still left the 2026 draft as the third most-watched since the NFL moved to its current three-day structure in 2010. Coverage aired on ABC, ESPN, and NFL Network, plus various streaming platforms.

The all-time viewership record remains with the 2020 draft, which drew 8.4 million viewers when it was conducted virtually due to the coronavirus pandemic.

First-round coverage on Thursday saw a smaller decline of 3%, attracting 13.2 million viewers compared to 13.6 million who watched in 2025.

Though television numbers dropped, the event broke attendance records with 805,000 people gathering in Pittsburgh over the three days. This surpassed the previous in-person record of 775,000 attendees set in Detroit during 2024.

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr sat down with team owner Joe Lacob and general manager Mike Dunleavy for a lengthy two-hour discussion on Monday regarding his future role with the organization, sources revealed Wednesday.

The conversation was described as constructive despite numerous unresolved issues remaining on the table. The trio plans to reconvene for another meeting in the coming week.

Kerr currently has no contract in place for the upcoming season. The 60-year-old coach has spent 12 seasons leading Golden State and delivered four NBA championships to the franchise in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022. His regular-season coaching record stands at 604-353, a .631 winning percentage.

Despite his successful track record, the Warriors failed to reach the playoffs this year after falling to the Phoenix Suns in a play-in tournament game. This marks the second playoff absence in three seasons for the team.

The Warriors also struggled to a 37-45 record, finishing with a losing record for only the second time during Kerr’s coaching tenure.

Following Golden State’s elimination earlier this month, Kerr acknowledged the possibility that it could have been his final game leading the team.

“I still love coaching, but I get it,” Kerr said to 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.”

Complicating matters further are veteran stars Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, who may be reluctant to enter a rebuilding phase under different leadership.

Another potential factor involves Kerr’s tendency to voice opinions on controversial political topics, often while positioned in front of the team’s official branding.

According to a SF Gate report from last week, senior organization officials have grown frustrated with Kerr’s ongoing commentary, including his criticisms of President Donald Trump. The report indicated these continued public statements have created “internal frustration” within the organization.

The Detroit Tigers suffered a double blow Wednesday when they moved pitcher Casey Mize and shortstop Javier Baez to the injured list following injuries sustained in Tuesday’s defeat against the Atlanta Braves.

Mize, age 27, was assigned to the 15-day injured list due to a right groin muscle strain. The 2025 All-Star showed signs of discomfort following a strikeout in the second inning and left the game in the third after making a throw to first base. His placement marks the eighth Tigers pitcher to land on the injured list and represents the second member of Detroit’s opening day starting rotation to be sidelined, alongside Justin Verlander who has been out since April 4 with left hip inflammation. Verlander participated in a bullpen workout on Wednesday.

“Probably the most optimistic news we can get on Casey, that it’s a Grade 1,” Detroit manager A.J. Hinch told reporters before Wednesday’s game in Atlanta.

The three-time All-Star Baez was moved to the 10-day injured list after his right shoe got caught in the ground while sliding headfirst into first base during the fifth inning following a weak grounder. The 33-year-old veteran showed clear signs of pain and was removed from the contest.

“Javy’s (injury) is a pretty significant ankle sprain, so I don’t know what that means in terms of timeline, other than it’s a minimum of 15 days and if he’s back by then, that’s great. If it takes longer, it’s because of swelling and soreness,” Hinch said.

Through six outings in 2026, Mize holds a 2-2 record with a 2.90 ERA, recording 35 strikeouts against 11 walks with a 1.194 WHIP across 31 innings pitched. During his six-year tenure with Detroit, who chose him first overall in the 2018 amateur draft, Mize has compiled a 25-27 record with a 4.11 ERA across 95 appearances (93 as a starter). In 471 career innings, he has registered 400 strikeouts, 132 walks and maintains a 1.282 WHIP.

This season, Baez is batting .256 with two home runs and six runs batted in through 24 contests. Selected ninth overall by Chicago in the 2011 draft, he maintains a career .252 batting average with 195 home runs, 691 RBIs and 116 stolen bases spanning 13 seasons. Beyond his time with the Cubs (2014-21) and current stint with Detroit (2022-present), Baez also spent time with New York’s Mets in 2021.

With Baez unavailable, rookie Kevin McGonigle stands as the only healthy shortstop on Detroit’s active roster while Zach McKinstry recovers from left hip and abdominal inflammation. Prospect Hao-Yu Lee, ranked sixth in the organization by MLB Pipeline, represents another potential short-term solution during the absences of both Baez and McKinstry.

To fill the roster spots, Detroit promoted left-handed pitcher Enmanuel De Jesus and third baseman Jace Jung from Triple-A Toledo.

Jung, 25, entered Wednesday’s starting lineup against Atlanta as the designated hitter for his first appearance of the season, while McGonigle received the starting assignment at shortstop. A first-round selection (12th overall) by Detroit in 2022, Jung made his major league debut in 2024. Entering Tuesday’s action, Jung had posted a .190 batting average with six RBIs across 55 games over two seasons.

De Jesus, 29, earned a spot on the opening day roster as a relief pitcher, compiling a 1-0 record with a 10.13 ERA through six outings covering eight innings. He reached the majors for the first time in 2023 with Miami, recording an 11.37 ERA in two relief appearances with the Marlins.

Wide receiver George Pickens has put pen to paper on his franchise tag agreement with the Dallas Cowboys, securing a guaranteed $27.3 million payday for the 2026 season, the team announced Wednesday.

The 25-year-old pass-catcher is fresh off a breakout Pro Bowl campaign in 2025, his debut season in Dallas. Pickens hauled in 93 receptions from 137 targets, accumulating 1,429 receiving yards and nine touchdowns across 17 games with 15 starts — marking personal records in every statistical category.

Cowboys management has made clear they have no plans to pursue a long-term contract with Pickens currently, and trading him is not under consideration. The receiver, who would have entered free agency without the tag, still has until the league’s July 15 deadline to negotiate an extended deal with Dallas if the organization reconsiders its position.

“We have no intention of moving George,” Cowboys chief operating officer and co-owner Stephen Jones stated during a press conference after the NFL draft’s opening day last week. “We’re fired up about him signing his (tag), because it means he’s ready to come in here and get to work. … We have zero intention of moving (him).”

The Cowboys applied the franchise designation to Pickens on February 27, marking the first time the organization had utilized the tag since 2022 when they tagged tight end Dalton Schultz.

Originally drafted by Pittsburgh in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft from the University of Georgia, Pickens spent his initial three professional seasons with the Steelers. Throughout his four-year career, he has accumulated 267 catches for 4,270 yards and 21 touchdowns across 65 games with 55 starts.

The Steelers dealt Pickens to Dallas on May 7, 2025, in a trade that also included a 2027 sixth-round selection in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick (which became the 76th overall selection used on quarterback Drew Allar) and a 2027 fifth-round choice.

FRISCO, Texas — Wide receiver George Pickens has officially put pen to paper on his $27.3 million franchise tag deal with the Dallas Cowboys, virtually guaranteeing the Pro Bowl player will attend required offseason activities as team leadership continues to insist they won’t consider trading CeeDee Lamb’s teammate.

The receiver notified Dallas of his intention to accept the one-year agreement just hours before the NFL draft began last week, which fueled rumors about a potential trade since executive vice president Stephen Jones had stated just one day prior that the organization wouldn’t pursue long-term contract negotiations with Pickens during this offseason.

The 25-year-old wideout, who came to Dallas through a trade with Pittsburgh last season, posted personal bests with 93 receptions, 1,429 receiving yards, and nine touchdowns as part of one of the NFL’s most productive offensive units. However, Dallas struggled defensively, ranking among the league’s worst units and finishing with a 7-9-1 record that left them out of playoff contention for consecutive seasons.

Pickens flourished playing opposite Lamb, who is entering his second season under a massive $136 million, four-year deal that places him third among NFL receivers with a $34 million annual average.

The franchise tag represented a significant financial motivation for Pickens, offering guaranteed compensation that dwarfs his previous earnings of $6.8 million over his entire rookie contract as a second-round selection from Georgia in 2022.

With the contract now signed, Pickens becomes eligible to join the voluntary offseason program that commenced this week.

Team owner and general manager Jerry Jones has consistently expressed throughout the offseason that the organization views Pickens as part of their long-term strategy. Jones indicated he wouldn’t have extended such a substantial offer under the franchise tag without confidence that Pickens will remain with Dallas beyond 2026.

The Cowboys have previously used the franchise tag with quarterback Dak Prescott and defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence over the past eight years, with both players eventually securing long-term agreements. Conversely, tight end Dalton Schultz and running back Tony Pollard each played under the tag before departing via free agency the following season.

Stephen Jones cited the “newness” of Pickens’ time with the Cowboys as a contributing factor in their choice to pursue a one-year arrangement rather than an extended contract at this time.

While Pickens demonstrated his abilities during three seasons in Pittsburgh, he also displayed concerning episodes of immature or disengaged conduct that prompted former coach Mike Tomlin to publicly question his development.

First-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer, following 25 years as an NFL assistant, has avoided publicly criticizing Pickens. However, both Pickens and Lamb faced discipline when they were benched for the opening series against Las Vegas after violating team curfew during a casino visit the previous evening.

New York Yankees outfielder Jasson Dominguez was forced to leave Wednesday’s matchup with the Texas Rangers after taking a pitch to his left elbow that left him visibly injured.

The incident occurred during the fourth inning when Rangers pitcher Nathan Eovaldi’s cutter, traveling at 89.1 mph, struck Dominguez in the elbow. The impact left the player doubled over in discomfort, though he initially remained in the game following treatment from New York’s medical staff.

Medical personnel conducted X-rays on Dominguez, and team officials plan additional examinations once the Yankees conclude their Texas series and return home to New York.

Max Schuemann took over Dominguez’s position when the Yankees returned to the field. The young outfielder had just been promoted from the team’s Triple-A affiliate in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre earlier this week and had appeared in two games as designated hitter before taking his first start in the outfield Wednesday.

The switch-hitting player made an impressive debut in September 2023, launching four home runs across eight contests before requiring Tommy John surgery on his elbow. During the previous season, Dominguez posted a .257 batting average while contributing 10 home runs and 47 RBIs over 123 games, though his appearances became less frequent following the All-Star break.

Thursday night brings pivotal moments for three NBA playoff series, as the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics each seek to eliminate their opponents with away-game victories, while the defending champion Denver Nuggets battle to extend their season against an injury-riddled Minnesota Timberwolves squad.

The Atlanta Hawks find themselves in a difficult position after dropping two straight games, prompting coaching staff to explore different defensive strategies and player rotations to counter New York’s potent offensive attack. While Karl-Anthony Towns delivered a triple-double performance in Saturday’s contest as Atlanta successfully contained Jalen Brunson, Tuesday’s game told a different story with Brunson breaking free for 39 points.

“Everyone’s going to make adjustments,” Towns said. “So just being prepared for whatever the defense throws at us and being able to react accordingly.”

New York’s defensive adjustments have effectively neutralized CJ McCollum, who had previously dominated Games 2 and 3 with crucial scoring performances. Atlanta’s leading scorers, Jalen Johnson and Nickeil Alexander-Walker, have been unable to match their regular-season production levels.

“Their defense never really let us establish consistently how we need to play to beat them,” Hawks coach Quin Snyder said after Tuesday’s 126-97 loss. “We need to execute on who we are and what we’ve done to be a good team, and like I said, that’s hard against a team of their caliber.”

In the Eastern Conference’s other series, Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid demonstrated his value to the team in just his second appearance following appendix surgery. The former MVP led all scorers with 33 points, powering Philadelphia to a convincing 113-97 victory on Boston’s home court.

“He (Embiid) was dominant, especially in the second half,” Tyrese Maxey said after the game. “He did a really good job of just inserting himself, and you know, I was proud of him tonight, man.”

Philadelphia enters Game 6 with renewed energy, hoping to level the series on their home floor, while Boston aims to secure their spot in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

“It’ll take everything we’ve got,” Maxey said Tuesday. “It’ll take even more of an effort than it did tonight.”

Minnesota may have maintained their competitive spirit despite injuries to star player Anthony Edwards and key contributor Donte DiVincenzo, but their execution and concentration clearly suffered during Game 5’s loss in Denver. The Timberwolves trailed by as much as 27 points in the final quarter, with their 25 turnovers representing their most significant weakness.

While Edwards and DiVincenzo serve as the team’s premier three-point threats and offensive playmakers, Minnesota’s path to victory lies in rediscovering the suffocating defensive intensity that sparked their Game 2 comeback and dominant performances in Games 3 and 4.

“There’s no doubt that we miss Donte and Ant and all the things they do offensively and defensively, but we played a large part of Game 4 without those guys, so we still have really good defenders elsewhere,” coach Chris Finch said. “I didn’t like our attack mindset the other day. I thought we kind of waited on our heels a little bit too much. We’ve just got to be better getting back to what we know will work for us better.”

Game 6 between New York and Atlanta tips off at 7 p.m. EDT on ESPN, with the Knicks favored by 2.5 points while holding a 3-2 series advantage. New York ranks second among all playoff teams in scoring at 113.2 points per game, shooting 48.1% from the field and 38.4% from three-point territory. Atlanta lags behind in each statistical category, averaging 102.6 points on 44.8% field goal shooting and 32.2% from beyond the arc.

Brunson’s 39-point explosion marked his finest offensive showing of the series, extending his franchise record to 22 career playoff games with 30 or more points. Towns has emerged as an improved facilitator, recording 16 assists across the last two contests and averaging 2.2 more assists per game compared to the regular season. Hawks guard Alexander-Walker has seen his scoring dip to 14.2 points per game in the postseason, down 6.8 points from his regular-season average.

Boston and Philadelphia square off at 8 p.m. EDT on Peacock, with the Celtics holding a 3-2 series lead and favored by 6.5 points. The Celtics lead all playoff teams with 84 made three-pointers and 47.6 rebounds per game. Jaylen Brown paces Boston’s scoring at 25.8 points per contest, while Jayson Tatum contributes across multiple categories with averages of 10.6 rebounds, 7.6 assists, and 1.4 steals per game.

Payton Pritchard established a postseason career-high with 32 points against Philadelphia on Sunday. Through two playoff meetings with Boston, Embiid has averaged 29.5 points primarily through field goals and free throws, connecting on just 1 of 11 three-point attempts while shooting 21 of 44 from the field overall. Maxey has logged over 40 minutes per game in the playoffs, contributing 25.6 points, 6.8 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per contest.

The final game of the evening features Denver hosting Minnesota at 9:30 p.m. EDT on ESPN, with the Nuggets favored by 5.5 points despite trailing 3-2 in the series. Ayo Dosunmu and Mike Conley Jr. received their first starting assignments of the series for Minnesota due to the Edwards and DiVincenzo injuries. Dosunmu leads the team in postseason scoring at 21.8 points per game, seven points higher than his regular-season average.

For Denver, both Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray are averaging more than 25 points per game, with Jokic adding team-leading totals of 14 rebounds and 9.4 assists per contest. The reigning Finals MVP has recorded two triple-doubles during the series.

Texas Rangers outfielder Brandon Nimmo was forced to leave Wednesday’s matchup with the New York Yankees after experiencing tightness in his right hamstring.

The injury occurred during the fifth inning when Nimmo was advancing from second base to third on a ground ball hit by teammate Joc Pederson. Nimmo had reached base moments earlier with a single that deflected off Yankees first baseman Ben Rice’s glove. Sam Haggerty came in as a pinch runner to replace Nimmo and took over left field duties, while Alejandro Osuna shifted from left field to right field.

The injury happened just after Josh Jung delivered a two-run single that put Texas ahead 2-0.

The Rangers obtained Nimmo from the New York Mets in a November trade that sent Marcus Semien to New York. Through his first 30 games in a Rangers uniform, Nimmo has posted a .287 batting average along with four home runs and 12 RBIs.

While Nimmo dealt with frequent injuries during his early years with the Mets, he has been more durable recently, missing just 40 games total across the previous four seasons. During his last campaign with New York, Nimmo achieved personal bests with 25 home runs and 92 RBIs while appearing in a career-high 155 games.

The NHL Department of Player Safety issued its maximum allowable financial penalty to Dallas Stars captain Jamie Benn on Wednesday following an illegal cross-checking incident against Minnesota Wild player Ryan Hartman.

The league imposed a $2,604.17 fine on Benn, representing the highest monetary punishment permitted under the current collective bargaining agreement for this type of infraction.

The 36-year-old team captain committed the violation during the closing moments of Tuesday night’s fifth game in their Western Conference opening round playoff matchup, striking Hartman twice with his stick – first targeting the ribs, then making contact with the head area.

Officials assessed Benn a two-minute cross-checking penalty during the game, while Hartman received an unsportsmanlike conduct citation for his role in the incident.

Minnesota claimed a 4-2 victory in Tuesday’s contest, giving the Wild a 3-2 advantage in the seven-game playoff series. The teams will meet for Game 6 on Thursday night in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Five-time major champion Brooks Koepka is demonstrating his dedication to maintaining competitive sharpness by entering lower-tier tournaments as he prepares for the remaining three major championships of 2026.

Following his recent departure from LIV Golf and swift re-entry to the PGA Tour via the newly-established Returning Player Program, Koepka faces restrictions that prevent him from receiving sponsor invitations to signature events in 2026. With two premier tournaments scheduled before the PGA Championship next month, Koepka has decided to participate in the upcoming Myrtle Beach Classic, an alternate-field competition.

The three-time PGA Championship winner will use Myrtle Beach and its $4 million prize pool as his final preparation while most elite players compete for $20 million at Charlotte’s Truist Championship at Quail Hollow.

Victory at Myrtle Beach would offer Koepka an additional benefit: automatic qualification for the season’s final two signature tournaments, the Memorial and Travelers championships.

Koepka’s recent performance includes a missed cut alongside teammate Shane Lowry at the Zurich Classic, though he posted a respectable tie for 12th at the Masters. He has recorded four top-20 results in his last five individual stroke-play tournaments and currently ranks 59th in FedEx Cup points.

Two weeks ago at the RBC Heritage, Koepka served as first alternate, waiting through opening-round tee times hoping for a withdrawal that would allow him entry. His participation will bring star power to the three-year-old Myrtle Beach event.

“Having Brooks Koepka commit to the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic is a tremendous moment for our tournament and our community,” tournament director Darren Nelson said, per the Post and Courier. “He’s one of the most accomplished players of his generation, and his presence speaks to the continued momentum of this event on the PGA TOUR calendar.”

The PGA Championship begins May 14 at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania.

Former NFL defensive back Justin Simmons has called time on his professional football career after nine seasons in the league, with the Denver Broncos making the announcement Wednesday.

The timing of the retirement news holds special significance, coming exactly a decade after Denver selected the Boston College product in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft.

While Simmons completed his career by starting all 16 games for Atlanta in 2024 and recording two picks, his most memorable achievements came during his eight-year tenure in Denver. The safety earned both of his Pro Bowl selections while wearing orange and blue, along with four second-team All-Pro honors.

“Being a Denver Bronco was more than just a team,” Simmons expressed in Denver’s social media statement. “It was my heart, my home and my story.”

Simmons continued: “I’m always going to be a Bronco, and I’m always going to be a Broncos fan. They took a chance on me, extended me. This is my home.”

Throughout his career, Simmons proved remarkably consistent in creating turnovers, recording no fewer than two interceptions in every season he played. His career total of 32 picks includes a league-best six during the 2022 campaign. The veteran defender appeared in 134 games over nine seasons, earning starting assignments in 124 of those contests.

Atlanta also shared congratulatory messages for their former player on social media platforms.

The NBA announced Wednesday that New Orleans Pelicans center DeAndre Jordan has earned the Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year award for this season.

The honor, which has been given out each year since the 2012-13 season, celebrates the player who best demonstrates unselfish play, serves as a leader both during games and in the locker room, acts as a mentor and positive influence for fellow NBA players, and shows unwavering dedication to their team.

A group of league executives narrowed the field to 12 finalists, and active NBA players cast ballots to select the final winner.

The 37-year-old Jordan edged out Portland Trail Blazers guard Jrue Holiday, who had previously claimed the award three times. Jordan secured the victory with 66 first-place votes and accumulated 1,445 total points, just eight more than Holiday’s 1,437 points. Houston’s Jeff Green claimed third place with 1,420 points, while Toronto’s Garrett Temple finished fourth with 1,223 points, creating significant separation from the remaining candidates.

Throughout his distinguished career, Jordan has earned recognition as a three-time All-NBA selection, made two All-Defensive Teams, participated in the 2016-17 All-Star Game, and captured an NBA championship with the Denver Nuggets during the 2022-23 season. This past season with New Orleans, he participated in 12 contests, starting seven of them, while contributing 4.4 points and 6.3 rebounds per game.

During his 18-year professional career spanning eight different franchises, Jordan has compiled statistics of 8.5 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game across 1,123 total games, including 798 starts.

The National Hockey League announced Wednesday that three goaltenders have been chosen as finalists for this year’s Vezina Trophy, the prestigious award given to the league’s outstanding netminder.

Tampa Bay Lightning’s Andrei Vasilevskiy earned his nomination alongside New York Islanders goalkeeper Ilya Sorokin and Boston Bruins’ Jeremy Swayman. The annual honor, determined by votes from NHL general managers, recognizes excellence in goaltending during the regular season, with the winner to be revealed at a future date.

The 31-year-old Vasilevskiy topped all goalies this season with 39 victories while recording a 2.31 goals-against average that ranked second league-wide. This marks his second time as a Vezina finalist, having claimed the trophy in 2019 with a 39-10-4 record, 2.40 GAA, and .925 save percentage.

Sorokin, age 30, compiled a 29-24-2 record this season while leading the NHL with seven shutouts, alongside a 2.68 GAA and .906 save percentage. Should he win, Sorokin would become the first Islanders goalie to capture the award since Hall of Fame member Billy Smith achieved the honor in the 1981-82 campaign.

The 27-year-old Swayman, earning his first Vezina nomination, finished with a 31-18-4 record, 2.71 GAA, and .908 save percentage. His standout statistic was leading all NHL goalies with 38 games started while maintaining at least a .900 save percentage.

Last season’s Vezina Trophy recipient was Winnipeg Jets netminder Connor Hellebuyck, who also captured the Hart Trophy as the league’s Most Valuable Player.

The LIV Golf league announced it will delay its Louisiana tournament originally set for June, claiming the organization maintains “strong momentum” despite growing uncertainty about its financial future past 2026.

League officials told Field Level Media on Wednesday they plan to “explore” hosting a fall tournament in Louisiana instead, pointing to excessive summer temperatures, scheduling conflicts with other sporting events, and golf course conditions as reasons for the delay.

“In coordination with the Governor of Louisiana and Louisiana Economic Development, we have made the strategic decision to explore moving LIV Golf Louisiana to a new window later this fall,” the statement read. “This shift allows us to avoid the peak summer heat and the crowded global sports calendar while ensuring the course is in the championship condition our fans and players expect.”

The statement continued: “We are grateful for the continued partnership and flexibility of the state of Louisiana as we work together to deliver a world-class debut this fall. Our team is focused on maintaining the strong momentum of the 2026 season and we look forward to sharing finalized dates in the near future.”

The postponement follows recent reports suggesting Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund may withdraw financial support for the golf league. LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil had previously assured staff in an email that the current season would proceed “exactly as planned, uninterrupted and at full throttle.”

The cancellation of the June 25-28 New Orleans tournament creates a scheduling gap between LIV Golf Andalucia in Spain (June 4-7) and LIV Golf United Kingdom (July 23-26). The league plans to resume competition with LIV Golf Virginia this coming weekend.

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry revealed Tuesday that the state has already disbursed $3.2 million from a $7 million contract. LIV Golf “is expected to return all state incentive funds” worth $1.2 million, while the remaining $2 million funded upgrades to Bayou Oaks at City Park golf course.

“We appreciate LIV’s good-faith efforts and look forward to maintaining our partnership as we continue conversations around an event later this year,” Landry said. “We are grateful for the work of our local partners and the collaboration that supported this effort.”

NOLA.com reported earlier this week that LIV officials were considering a scaled-down “exposition-style” event in New Orleans during the fall months. The league’s team championship in late August remains the final confirmed event on the schedule, with the Louisiana tournament now appearing without a date at the bottom of their website’s calendar.

Detroit Lions management chose different paths for their two 2023 first-round draft picks, according to reports that surfaced Tuesday evening. The team exercised the fifth-year contract option for running back Jahmyr Gibbs while choosing not to pick up linebacker Jack Campbell’s option.

Fox 2 Detroit first reported the news Tuesday night, with ESPN sources later confirming the information.

The decision means Gibbs will receive a guaranteed $14.29 million salary for the 2027 season. Had the Lions picked up Campbell’s option, the All-Pro linebacker would have earned approximately $21.925 million, which ESPN notes exceeds the current highest salary for any off-ball linebacker in the NFL.

According to ESPN’s reporting, Detroit’s front office plans to pursue long-term contract extensions with both Campbell and Gibbs. The organization also faces upcoming extension decisions for tight end Sam LaPorta and defensive back Brian Branch, though neither requires immediate action since they weren’t selected in the first round.

The choice regarding Gibbs appeared straightforward given his exceptional performance. The 24-year-old has accumulated 5,029 yards from scrimmage and scored 49 touchdowns across 49 games with 24 starts during his initial three NFL seasons. His consistent excellence earned him three consecutive Pro Bowl selections.

Campbell, age 25, delivered an outstanding 2023 campaign that included first-team All-Pro recognition and Pro Bowl honors. He achieved personal bests with 176 tackles, five sacks, and three forced fumbles while starting all 17 games. Throughout his 51-game career spanning 46 starts, Campbell has recorded 402 tackles and 8.5 sacks.

Detroit selected both players during the 2023 NFL Draft, taking Gibbs with the 12th overall selection and Campbell at 18th overall.

The Minnesota Wild find themselves in a position they haven’t experienced in nearly a decade — one win away from advancing in the Stanley Cup playoffs.

Minnesota returns to their home ice Thursday evening holding a 3-2 series advantage over the Dallas Stars, seeking to eliminate their opponents and reach the second round for the first time since 2015.

“I think it’s important just to stay calm. You know, don’t overthink it,” said Mats Zuccarello, the veteran forward who has spent seven seasons with Minnesota during his 16-year NHL career. “Don’t read whatever you guys (media) say about we haven’t gotten out of the first round in a couple of years. Just calm and collected.”

The 38-year-old Zuccarello made his presence felt immediately upon returning from a three-game injury absence, netting the opening goal less than four minutes into Tuesday’s contest in Dallas. Minnesota capitalized on that early momentum to secure a 4-2 victory, marking their 12th playoff appearance across 14 seasons.

This represents only the second time in franchise history that Minnesota has held a 3-2 series advantage, with their previous occurrence coming during that successful 2015 campaign when they defeated St. Louis in six games. Since then, the Wild have endured nine straight playoff series defeats, including losses to these same Stars in both 2016 and 2023.

Forward Marcus Foligno, now in his ninth season, believes this team possesses different qualities than previous versions. “We’ve got to just look to control our emotions in Game 6 and in front of our home crowd, a place where we had a good feeling leaving last time,” Foligno explained. “I think it’s a little bit different. I think we have a lot of leadership and guys that are experienced. … It’s a close group but a really hard working group and a confident one right now.”

Among current roster members, only team captain Jared Spurgeon and defenseman Jonas Brodin participated in Minnesota’s last playoff series triumph. Spurgeon, then 25 years old and in his fifth season, has now spent all 16 of his NHL campaigns with the same organization. However, Brodin’s availability for Thursday’s potential series-clinching game remains questionable after he sustained a lower-body injury during Game 5.

Should Minnesota fail to close out the series on home ice — where they previously captured Game 4 in overtime — the teams would meet for a decisive seventh game Saturday back in Dallas.

The eventual series victor will face the top-seeded Colorado Avalanche in the Central Division, a well-rested opponent that completed a four-game sweep of the Los Angeles Kings last Sunday.

Star forward Kirill Kaprizov contributed two assists during Tuesday’s victory, just two days following his 29th birthday celebration, before adding an empty-net goal in the final two minutes. That second goal of the series marked his 17th career playoff score, establishing a new franchise record by surpassing Zach Parise’s previous mark. Kaprizov also broke Parise’s record for most multi-point playoff performances with his ninth such game.

Rising star Matt Boldy, the 25-year-old forward, delivered the game-winning power-play goal in the second period’s closing minute, after officials had previously disallowed an earlier score due to goaltender interference.

Rookie netminder Jesper Wallstedt, the 23-year-old who has earned the starting role over Filip Gustavsson throughout this series, made 20 saves in Game 5. The young goaltender has been particularly effective in even-strength situations, allowing Dallas just three goals during five-on-five play across the entire series.

“We’re very confident of where we’re at. … Now we get to bring the series home,” Wallstedt said. “I’ve never played in a game of that type of magnitude. I’m very excited. I’m looking forward to it so much.”

For the first time since 2015, the Big Ten conference knocked the SEC off its throne in the opening round of the NFL draft, though the Southeastern Conference still managed to break records for overall player selections.

The Big Ten claimed 10 first-round selections, powered by recent national championship teams Indiana and Ohio State, ending the SEC’s streak of leading round one. The SEC managed just seven first-round picks — a dramatic drop from last year’s record 15 selections and their smallest first-round showing since 2015.

LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane became the first SEC player selected when Kansas City chose him sixth overall, marking the latest an SEC player has been picked to start a draft since 2018, when Roquan Smith went eighth to Chicago.

Where the SEC truly flexed its muscle was in the later rounds, demonstrating remarkable depth across the conference. The league dominated days two and three with 29 selections in rounds two and three, plus 51 additional picks in the final four rounds. Their total of 87 drafted players shattered previous records and easily surpassed the Big Ten’s 67 selections.

This marks two decades of SEC draft supremacy, with the conference leading total selections in every draft since the ACC topped the list in 2006. That period coincided with Florida’s national championship the following year, launching an era where SEC schools captured 13 of 17 national titles.

That championship dominance shifted when Michigan claimed the 2023 title, followed by Ohio State and Indiana winning their own championships recently.

The remaining power conferences trailed significantly, with both the Big 12 and ACC placing six players in round one and 38 total selections each.

Recent conference realignment, combined with relaxed transfer rules and NIL compensation, has increasingly concentrated top talent at major programs within the power conferences.

San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson stood as the lone exception among first-round picks, going 27th to Miami as the only player who didn’t complete his college career in a power conference or at Notre Dame.

Group of Six representation remained minimal, with Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren selected 58th by Cleveland as the next non-power conference player chosen. Georgia State receiver Ted Hurst went 84th to Tampa Bay as the only other Group of Six player picked in the first two days.

Overall, just 14 Group of Six players heard their names called, with the American and MAC conferences leading with four selections each. ESPN reported that 39 additional draftees had transferred from Group of Six schools to power conferences.

FBS independents contributed seven players, including six from Notre Dame and one from UConn. Four players came from FCS programs, while Philadelphia selected Nigerian native Uar Bernard in the seventh round through the NFL’s International Pathway Program despite him never playing college football.

Running backs experienced a historic night in round one, with Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love becoming the first back selected in the top five in eight years when Arizona took him third overall. His teammate Jadarian Price closed out the round as Seattle’s final pick.

This marked just the sixth instance since 1967 of two running backs from the same school going in the first round of one draft, last occurring in 2008 with Arkansas teammates Darren McFadden and Felix Jones.

The position became an afterthought afterward, with Indiana’s Kaelon Black becoming the next running back selected near the end of round three at 90th overall to San Francisco. This created the smallest group of running backs ever chosen in the first three rounds of the modern draft era.

Only 10 additional running backs were selected on the final day, bringing the total to 13 — the fewest in draft history.

Tight ends enjoyed a resurgence with 22 selections, matching 2015 for the most since that year, reflecting the NFL’s increased use of multiple tight end formations.

Traditional position priorities remained evident with teams selecting 51 defensive linemen and 50 offensive linemen. Defensive backs (46), wide receivers (36), linebackers (26), quarterbacks (10), and specialists (3) rounded out the selections.

Ohio State achieved historic draft success, becoming the third school ever to place four players in the top 11 selections. Carnell Tate, Arvell Reece, Sonny Styles, and Caleb Downs all went within those first 11 picks.

Only Michigan State in 1967 (four in the top eight) and Notre Dame in 1946 (four in the top 10) had accomplished similar early-draft dominance.

The Buckeyes continued their strong showing with seven additional selections, leading all schools with 11 total picks. Alabama and Texas A&M each had 10 players chosen, while Clemson, Miami, and Texas Tech contributed nine apiece.

Michigan and USC extended their remarkable consistency, each having at least one player selected for the 88th consecutive draft — the longest active streaks. Notre Dame has missed just one regular draft since 1938 (1977, though Al Hunter was picked in that year’s supplemental draft).

Wisconsin saw its streak of annual selections since 1979 come to an end.

The NFL streamlined the first round by reducing selection time from 10 to eight minutes, completing the opening round in 2 hours and 53 minutes Thursday night — 36 minutes faster than last year and 40 minutes quicker than the five-year average.

This efficiency represents a dramatic change from Commissioner Roger Goodell’s first draft in 2007, when 15-minute selection windows created a marathon 6-hour, 8-minute first round. The current format cuts that duration in half.

PHILADELPHIA — Don Mattingly had called it quits on his managerial career and was essentially finished with baseball after departing his bench coaching position with Toronto following the World Series.

Encouraged by his son, Mattingly chose to return to baseball one more time, accepting a bench coach position with Philadelphia during the winter to work alongside his longtime friend from their New York Yankees days, manager Rob Thomson.

But return to managing when the Yankees legend known as Donnie Baseball was approaching his 65th birthday?

“I don’t think I have the energy for that anymore,” Mattingly stated in January.

Mattingly appeared honest about his plans at the time since all indications suggested he was joining a powerhouse World Series contender in Philadelphia. Why even consider the possibility of managing again, particularly with an expensive, playoff-experienced roster loaded with stars like Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, Kyle Schwarber and Zack Wheeler?

Four months later, the Phillies’ season has reached this point: Mattingly’s final opportunity to capture his first World Series championship after more than four decades in baseball begins with leading one of the National League’s poorest performing teams.

Mattingly has taken over as manager for the remainder of the season, accepting the interim position Tuesday just hours after the Phillies dismissed Thomson — and openly considered replacing him with former Red Sox skipper Alex Cora — with the firm conviction that a championship-caliber team exists within this disappointing roster.

The position comes with either an advantage or potential awkwardness, as Mattingly is also the father of his new supervisor, Phillies general manager Preston Mattingly.

“I know how competitive he is,” Mattingly commented. “Him and I are a little different. He looks at things, he’s a little outside the box at times, which I appreciate. It’s helped me grow.”

Credit 11-year-old son Louis Mattingly with largely influencing his father’s decision to return during the offseason.

Mattingly — who sported a white pinstriped uniform in the 1980s Hit Man poster that decorated countless New York kids’ bedrooms — has started successfully in Philadelphia.

Thomson, who guided the Phillies to four consecutive postseason appearances, including the 2022 World Series, would likely still be employed if Philadelphia had consistently performed like they did in a 7-0 victory over San Francisco in Mattingly’s first game.

“I’m going to watch our game,” Thomson commented in a video conference with reporters before the contest. “I really am.”

Thomson undoubtedly appreciated the outcome — though it likely came with some irritation that the Phillies couldn’t deliver more steady performances throughout April.

Turner recorded the first four-hit performance by any Phillie this season. Jesús Luzardo, just two outings after the left-hander surrendered nine runs and 12 hits against the Cubs, delivered two-hit baseball, fanned eight batters and issued no walks across seven scoreless frames. He combined with two relievers for Philadelphia’s first shutout of the year.

The Phillies dropped 10 consecutive contests and 11 of 12 during Thomson’s final stretch of an otherwise productive tenure. Mattingly retained the existing coaching staff — including embattled hitting coach Kevin Long, who absorbed most criticism for the Phillies’ struggles — while third base coach Dusty Wathan received a promotion to bench coach.

“I don’t know if I’m a whole lot different from Rob, honestly,” Mattingly explained. “I trust players, I believe in players, I like players. But I want us to play better baseball.”

Mattingly, who led the Dodgers from 2011-15 and the Marlins from 2016-22, also appeared unbothered that he wasn’t Philadelphia’s primary managerial target.

Dave Dombrowski, the Phillies’ president of baseball operations, acknowledged Tuesday that Cora was his preferred candidate to replace Thomson. Dombrowski oversaw the front office in Boston when Cora led the Red Sox to a World Series title in 2018. A Philadelphia reunion seemed logical, though Cora eventually declined.

“I came to the conclusion that if he took it, I would make a change. I thought he would take it,” Dombrowski explained. “Until Monday morning it was apparent from his perspective he wanted to take time with his family. He wanted to be a father first and foremost and so that’s what he had decided.”

The Phillies’ problems extend far beyond the manager position.

From former All-Star third baseman Alec Bohm to second baseman Bryson Stott, the Phillies have underdelivered for a franchise with a $284.7 million payroll. The Phillies are getting older and the starting rotation has been terrible — leading to the choice to release Taijuan Walker — all contributing to a team that used Tuesday’s victory to reach 10-19.

The Phillies have experienced this situation previously, particularly in 2022 when Dombrowski dismissed Joe Girardi following a 22-29 beginning and they finished 65-46 under Thomson. The upcoming schedule favors Mattingly’s chances to replicate that turnaround with nine of the next 13 contests at home, with only the Athletics (among three other opponents) possessing a winning record.

Mattingly believed he was finished. He’s now completely back in the game — and the Phillies’ World Series aspirations rest entirely on a manager who has never captured one.

“This is not about how I’m going to do,” Mattingly said. “It’s really about club.”

The Philadelphia Phillies delivered a dominant 7-0 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday night, capping off a dramatic day that began with the firing of manager Rob Thomson.

Philadelphia made the coaching change after struggling to a 9-19 record that matched the worst in Major League Baseball entering Tuesday’s game. Thomson, who had led the team for nearly four years, was replaced by bench coach Don Mattingly on an interim basis.

Mattingly’s first game as skipper proved successful thanks to an outstanding performance from pitcher Jesus Luzardo, who surrendered only two hits across seven innings of work. The left-hander struck out eight batters without issuing a single walk to improve his record to 2-3.

Philadelphia’s offense came alive in the sixth inning, scoring four runs to break the game open. Trea Turner led the offensive charge with a 4-for-5 performance that included two runs scored, while Adolis Garcia contributed two RBIs to the effort.

The victory marked just the second win for Philadelphia in their last 13 contests, providing some relief for a team that has struggled mightily this season.

Giants starter Tyler Mahle took the loss, falling to 1-4 after allowing five runs on six hits over five innings of work. San Francisco, which had won seven of their previous 10 games, struck out 12 times with Matt Chapman accounting for four of those strikeouts.

In other MLB action around the league:

The Miami Marlins edged the Los Angeles Dodgers 2-1 behind six shutout innings from Janson Junk (2-2). Otto Lopez collected three hits for Miami, while Owen Caissie and Kyle Stowers each drove in runs. Shohei Ohtani (2-1) took the loss for Los Angeles despite allowing just two runs over six innings.

Toronto defeated Boston 3-0 as Trey Yesavage made a successful season debut, pitching 5 1/3 innings and allowing four hits to earn his first win. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had two hits and an RBI, while Kazuma Okamoto delivered a two-run single for the Blue Jays.

Tampa Bay squeezed past Cleveland 1-0 on Jonathan Aranda’s fifth-inning RBI single. Nick Martinez (2-1) worked seven-plus innings for the Rays, who improved to 18-11. The 2024 first overall draft pick Travis Bazzana made his major league debut for Cleveland, going 0-for-2 with two walks.

The New York Yankees beat Texas 3-2 as Cam Schlittler threw six shutout innings and Aaron Judge homered for the third consecutive game. The Yankees have now won 10 of their last 11 games.

Cincinnati routed Colorado 7-2 behind Elly De La Cruz’s 3-for-4 performance that included four RBIs. Spencer Steer added a two-run homer for the Reds, who have won eight of their last 10 games.

Kansas City extended their winning streak to four games with a 4-1 extra-inning victory over Oakland. Bobby Witt Jr. broke a tie with a three-run homer in the 10th inning.

Baltimore defeated Houston 5-3 as Shane Baz earned his first victory with the Orioles and Pete Alonso hit a two-run homer. The struggling Astros have now lost eight of their last 11 games.

Other winners included Atlanta over Detroit 5-2, St. Louis over Pittsburgh 11-7, Milwaukee over Arizona 13-2, the New York Mets over Washington 8-0, Chicago White Sox over the Angels 5-2, Seattle over Minnesota 7-1, and the Cubs over San Diego 8-3.

An Italian professional golfer is maintaining an optimistic outlook as he recovers from devastating injuries suffered in a shocking elevator accident in South Africa earlier this year.

Andrea Pavan, who has claimed victory twice on Europe’s DP World Tour, plummeted three floors down an empty elevator shaft in February while staying near Stellenbosch Golf Club. The 37-year-old athlete had summoned the elevator at his lodging when the doors opened to reveal nothing but an empty shaft.

The terrifying fall left Pavan with multiple broken bones in his spine and a severe shoulder injury that necessitated surgical intervention.

Speaking with the BBC about his recovery timeline, Pavan explained the medical milestones ahead. “Around three months we’ll see how well the bone has healed. Around six months it’s about where complete bone healing happens and we’ll see how the joint is moving by then,” he said.

“It depends on if there are other tissues that were damaged if I need a second surgery. And there’s the possibility of necrosis when the blood flow is not sufficient for the bones. There is that risk, but so far it seem like things are positive enough,” Pavan continued.

The golfer acknowledged the complexity of his shoulder rehabilitation, noting the joint’s demanding nature in his sport. “The shoulder is a very demanding joint. Hopefully it’s a little less than a year that I can play with a full swing but it’s just so new and such a big injury there just a lot of unknowns,” he shared.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his recovery, Pavan remains determined as he heals at his residence in Texas. “But I’m hopeful and the only thing I can do is to try and improve and take it day by day,” he added.

World Boxing announced Tuesday that fighters from Russia and Belarus will be permitted to participate in competitions as neutral competitors, following the International Olympic Committee’s position established after Russia’s comprehensive military assault on Ukraine in 2022.

According to the new guidelines, competitors from both nations will participate under the designation of Individual Neutral Athletes (AIN), prohibited from displaying their country’s flags, national anthems, official emblems, or team uniforms, while undergoing mandatory screening procedures.

This decision comes after World Boxing’s executive board voted in March to accept membership requests from boxing organizations in Russia and Belarus, opening the door for their fighters to participate in sanctioned competitions.

The neutral athlete protocol will be enforced throughout all age divisions in competitions organized by World Boxing, European Boxing, and international tournaments hosted by national boxing organizations, extending to trainers, support personnel, and team management.

According to World Boxing officials, the new protocol became effective immediately, with the organization’s secretary general officially informing both the Russian and Belarusian boxing federations about implementation procedures for the new measures.

Miami Marlins pitcher Janson Junk delivered a stellar performance on the mound Tuesday night, throwing six shutout innings to help his team secure a 2-1 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers and tie their three-game series.

The visiting Marlins got offensive support from Otto Lopez, who collected three hits, while Owen Caissie and Kyle Stowers each contributed RBI performances. The victory improved Miami’s record to 2-3 during their current six-game road swing through the West Coast.

Junk earned his second win of the season against two losses, surrendering just three hits while walking one batter and striking out four. The right-hander has now thrown back-to-back scoreless outings after struggling in his two previous starts, where he allowed nine runs with seven earned.

Tyler Phillips stepped up in relief to secure his second save of the season, throwing a clean ninth inning. Phillips got the save opportunity after regular closer Pete Fairbanks was placed on the injured list earlier Tuesday due to nerve irritation.

On the opposing side, Shohei Ohtani took the loss to fall to 2-1 on the season. The Japanese superstar allowed two runs, though only one was earned, on five hits across six innings of work. He issued three walks and recorded nine strikeouts while pitching on five days’ rest for the first time this season. Despite the loss, Ohtani maintains an impressive 0.60 ERA.

The Dodgers’ offense struggled without Ohtani in the lineup, marking just the second time in five starts that the two-way star didn’t bat when he pitched. Will Smith led Los Angeles with three of the team’s seven hits, as the Dodgers were limited to one run or fewer for the fourth time this season.

Miami struck first in the second inning through a combination of hustle and Los Angeles mistakes. Agustin Ramirez took a pitch to his left wrist, then stole second base and moved to third on an errant throw by Ohtani. Caissie brought him home with a sacrifice fly to give the Marlins a 1-0 advantage.

The visitors doubled their lead in the fifth inning when Christopher Morel drew a leadoff walk and advanced to second on Jakob Marsee’s one-out bunt. Stowers then delivered a clutch single to right field, scoring Morel for a 2-0 Miami lead.

Morel was making his first appearance in a Marlins uniform after signing as a free agent during the offseason. He had been sidelined with an oblique strain suffered during batting practice before the season opener.

Los Angeles managed to cut the deficit in half during the eighth inning. Freddie Freeman’s one-out single put runners on first and third base, setting up Smith’s RBI single to right field off reliever Michael Petersen that made it 2-1.

Joel Embiid delivered 33 points and distributed eight assists as Philadelphia defeated Boston 113-97 in Tuesday’s Game 5, keeping the 76ers’ playoff hopes alive in their Eastern Conference first-round matchup.

The star center, who sat out the series’ opening three games due to appendix surgery, briefly left the contest with what appeared to be a knee problem at the 4:35 mark of the third quarter, but made his way back onto the court with two minutes remaining in that period.

“Obviously he was very, very good,” 76ers coach Nick Nurse said. “Give him credit. He worked really hard to get back through the procedure that he had. Played a lot of minutes. I was super-impressed with him on the defensive end tonight.”

Tyrese Maxey contributed 25 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for Philadelphia, the series’ seventh seed, which trailed by one point heading into the final quarter before dominating Boston 28-11 in those closing 12 minutes. Paul George recorded 16 points, nine rebounds and seven assists as the 76ers narrowed the best-of-seven series gap to 3-2.

Boston’s second-seeded squad got 24 points and 16 rebounds from Jayson Tatum, while Jaylen Brown contributed 22 points. Neemias Queta posted eight points and 14 rebounds. The Celtics managed just 36 successful shots on 89 attempts from the floor.

“I mean it’s disappointing,” Boston’s Payton Pritchard said. “Every game you lose in the playoffs is disappointing. But the playoffs is life of its own. You never know when you’re gonna get it done, so you gotta move on and get ready for (Game 6 on) Thursday. … We don’t have time to dwell on it. We’ve got to go to Philly tomorrow and get ready for Thursday.”

Boston claimed its first lead when Brown scored a layup making it 16-15 with 2:59 left in the opening quarter. The Celtics held a 23-21 advantage after one period.

The home team expanded their margin to 42-31 following a Tatum three-pointer, but Philadelphia rallied to within two points at 50-48 after Maxey connected from beyond the arc with 2:10 left before halftime. Boston responded with seven consecutive points and took a 57-50 lead into the break.

Early in the third quarter, the Celtics pushed their advantage to 13 points at 63-50, but a VJ Edgecombe three-pointer brought Philadelphia within striking distance at 66-65 with 6:37 remaining in the period. Boston maintained an 86-85 edge entering the fourth quarter.

The 76ers seized control with an 88-86 lead on George’s three-pointer early in the final period, eventually building their biggest advantage when Edgecombe hit another three-pointer for a 109-94 margin with 2:25 left on the clock.

Boston struggled mightily in the fourth quarter, converting only three of 22 field goal attempts.

“Just missed some shots,” Boston coach Joe Mazzulla said. “I thought we got some good looks. Weren’t able to capitalize on them.”

“We were able to execute what we wanted to do defensively — weren’t blowing assignments and guarded hard,” Nurse said of his team’s fourth-quarter performance. “Everybody did a good job of guarding their man. … We knew we needed to do a better job on the defensive end.”

David Pastrnak netted a crucial breakaway goal 9 minutes and 14 seconds into overtime, giving the Boston Bruins a vital 2-1 victory over the Buffalo Sabres in Game 5 of their Eastern Conference first-round playoff matchup on Tuesday evening.

The dramatic winner came less than two minutes after Boston netminder Jeremy Swayman made a critical save against Alex Tuch. Pastrnak took a lengthy pass from Hampus Lindholm as he crossed the blue line, breaking away to beat Buffalo goalie Alex Lyon with a shot that went past the keeper’s skate.

Elias Lindholm contributed the other goal for Boston, while Swayman delivered 24 saves overall, including four crucial stops during the overtime period to extend the Bruins’ playoff run. The victory sends the best-of-seven series back to Boston for Game 6 this Friday.

Boston has now captured two of three contests played in Buffalo. Rasmus Dahlin tallied the only goal for the Sabres, and Lyon made 27 saves for Buffalo, which is attempting to claim its first playoff series victory since 2007.

Oilers 4, Ducks 1

Leon Draisaitl found the net twice as Edmonton extended its playoff life with a victory over visiting Anaheim in Game 5 of their Western Conference first-round matchup.

Anaheim maintains a 3-2 series advantage heading into Thursday’s Game 6 in Anaheim. Vasily Podkolzin and Zach Hyman also tallied for Edmonton, which knocked Anaheim netminder Lukas Dostal from the game after scoring three times in the opening 10:13. Evan Bouchard recorded three assists, while Connor McDavid and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins each contributed two helpers.

Connor Ingram turned away 29 shots for the two-time defending Western Conference champions after serving as backup to Tristan Jarry during Edmonton’s 4-3 overtime defeat at Anaheim in Sunday’s Game 4. Alex Killorn scored for the Ducks, who remain one win away from capturing their first playoff series triumph in nine years.

Wild 4, Stars 2

Kirill Kaprizov recorded one goal and two assists as Minnesota defeated host Dallas to grab a 3-2 series advantage in their Western Conference first-round playoff battle.

Matt Boldy contributed a goal and an assist, while Mats Zuccarello and Michael McCarron also found the back of the net for Minnesota. Jesper Wallstedt made 20 saves for the Wild.

Jason Robertson and Miro Heiskanen each recorded a goal and an assist for Dallas. Jake Oettinger stopped 24 shots for the Stars.