Category: Sports

The NBA has begun organizing voters for its annual postseason awards, with ballots expected to be submitted soon after the regular season concludes, following the pattern of recent years.

While some award categories appear straightforward for voters to decide, others present more challenging choices. The Defensive Player of the Year seems destined for San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama, and the Rookie of the Year contest will likely come down to two Duke alumni – Charlotte’s Kon Knueppel and Dallas’ Cooper Flagg.

However, other competitions remain wide open. The MVP discussion includes compelling arguments for several players: Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Denver’s Nikola Jokic, the Los Angeles Lakers’ Luka Doncic, Wembanyama, Boston’s Jaylen Brown, and several additional contenders.

The Coach of the Year race presents another crowded field of deserving candidates.

Multiple coaches have built strong cases for recognition. J.B. Bickerstaff appears positioned to lead Detroit – a franchise known for lengthy losing streaks just two seasons ago – to the Eastern Conference’s top seed. In San Antonio, Mitch Johnson is completing his first official full season as head coach (despite handling 77 of 82 games last year) and has the Spurs competing for the Western Conference’s first or second position. Additional consideration should go to Quin Snyder in Atlanta, Charles Lee in Charlotte, Jordan Ott in Phoenix, and Darko Rajakovic.

Boston’s Joe Mazzulla presents another compelling candidate. The Celtics navigated most of this campaign without Jayson Tatum, leading some observers to predict a regression following Tatum’s injury and the exits of key players including Al Horford, Kristaps Porzingis, and Jrue Holiday. Instead, the Celtics have reached 50 victories once again under Mazzulla’s guidance.

When reporters questioned Mazzulla before Monday’s game about the Coach of the Year award and his potential candidacy, his response was characteristically blunt.

“I don’t need it,” Mazzulla stated. “I think it’s a stupid award.”

This declaration likely eliminates any possibility of the Celtics organization campaigning for Mazzulla’s candidacy. Some franchises actively promote their candidates – Utah memorably created an album cover featuring then-center Rudy Gobert as a jazz musician when promoting his Defensive Player of the Year bid.

Award campaigning has already begun across the league. Wembanyama made his MVP argument following a recent game in Miami, while Spurs teammates are promoting Keldon Johnson for Sixth Man of the Year honors. Johnson’s primary competition appears to be Miami’s Jaime Jaquez Jr.

The National Basketball Players Association recently addressed the 65-game eligibility requirement for most awards, highlighting concerns about Detroit’s Cade Cunningham, whose collapsed lung this month could prevent him from meeting the minimum games needed for All-NBA team consideration.

“We always knew when there’s a line you draw that somebody’s going to fall on the other side of that line,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver explained last week. “It may feel unfair in that particular instance. Let’s see what happens at the end of this year.”

While teams have every right to advocate for their personnel to receive awards, Mazzulla’s position demonstrates his focus on objectives far beyond individual recognition.

“You shouldn’t have it,” Mazzulla continued regarding the award. “And it’s more about the players and it’s more about the work that the staff puts in. It’s just that simple. I really don’t ever want to be asked or talked about it again. It’s just that dumb. So, the players play, it’s about them. Staff works their (butt) off. I’m grateful to have ’em.”

Team accomplishments appear to be Mazzulla’s sole priority. While this stance won’t prevent voters from selecting him, it represents a perspective worthy of respect.

The National Football League is once again facing the prospect of starting a season with substitute officials after contract talks with the referees’ union have stalled, bringing back memories of the chaotic 2012 season that concluded with one of the most controversial calls in football history.

League officials are moving ahead with plans to recruit and train replacement referees in the coming weeks, according to two sources familiar with the negotiations who spoke anonymously to The Associated Press on Sunday.

The last time the NFL relied on substitute officials during the opening weeks of 2012, the experiment culminated in disaster during a Monday Night Football matchup between Seattle and Green Bay that featured the notorious ‘Fail Mary’ play.

In that game’s final moments, with Seattle trailing 12-7, quarterback Russell Wilson threw a desperation pass to the end zone where receiver Golden Tate pushed cornerback Sam Shields aside before battling Green Bay’s M.D. Jennings for the ball. While Jennings appeared to make the initial catch, the substitute officials delivered conflicting signals – one indicating a touchback, the other a touchdown.

The play was ultimately ruled a simultaneous catch, awarding Seattle the victory in a decision that sparked nationwide outrage.

“It was awful,” Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers commented afterward. “Just look at the replay. And then the fact that it was reviewed, it was awful.”

The NFL later acknowledged that Tate should have been penalized for offensive pass interference, which would have secured Green Bay’s victory, though they maintained insufficient evidence existed to reverse the catch ruling.

Las Vegas bookmakers estimated that controversial decision affected at least $300 million in worldwide betting action – a figure that would be substantially larger today given the expansion of legal sports gambling.

Dallas safety Gerald Sensabaugh captured the frustration felt across the league at the time, saying: “Would you let a Toyota dealership work on your brand new Rolls-Royce? That doesn’t work right, does it. Our brand is so big, it’s so important to a lot of people. There’s no way you can have guys that don’t have experience at that level.”

The controversy extended beyond that single play. The previous evening, another prime-time contest ended in dispute when Baltimore kicker Justin Tucker’s 27-yard field goal was ruled successful despite appearing to miss wide right, giving the Ravens a 31-30 victory over New England. Patriots coach Bill Belichick was subsequently fined $50,000 for grabbing an official’s arm while seeking a review.

Player safety concerns also emerged during the 2012 replacement period. In one incident, Pittsburgh safety Ryan Mundy delivered an uncalled helmet-to-helmet blow to Oakland receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey, who required hospitalization for a concussion and neck injury. Mundy later received a $21,000 fine.

Procedural errors plagued games throughout those three weeks. Seattle received an undeserved timeout during their opener against Arizona when officials incorrectly failed to charge them for one following an injury in the final two minutes. San Francisco was granted two additional challenges in their loss to Minnesota despite coach Jim Harbaugh having no timeouts remaining.

“I granted him the challenge and we went and looked at it,” replacement referee Ken Roan admitted afterward. “That was wrong. I should not have.”

During overtime of a Tennessee-Detroit matchup, officials incorrectly enforced a penalty, giving the Titans an extra 12 yards on a drive that concluded with the game-winning field goal.

“Obviously, there was a miscommunication, or I don’t know what you call it, from an enforcement standpoint,” Lions coach Jim Schwartz observed.

Questions about impartiality also surfaced when side judge Brian Stropolo was removed from a Carolina-New Orleans game just hours before kickoff after the league discovered his Facebook page contained photos of him wearing Saints gear while tailgating.

The NFL previously used replacement officials during the 2001 season’s opening week, though that experience generated fewer memorable controversies. The labor dispute was resolved shortly after September 11th, allowing regular officials to return when games resumed following a one-week suspension.

However, complaints still emerged from that earlier period. Oakland quarterback Rich Gannon noted multiple missed calls following a Raiders victory, while Washington defensive end Bruce Smith wrote a formal complaint to Commissioner Paul Tagliabue about poor officiating.

“The officiating crew that we had today was horrible,” Smith stated after Washington’s loss to San Diego. “There were a number of plays out there, at least six, and we’re going to send into the league and I would hope that the league would take action and fine these guys. They were a mess and they definitely put players’ careers in jeopardy. This is unacceptable.”

Not everyone shared those concerns, with Seattle coach Mike Holmgren saying at the time: “I thought they did a pretty good job. They didn’t throw a lot of flags and they kept the game under control.”

Statistics showed 1.6 fewer penalties called per game during that week with replacement officials compared to the remainder of the 2001 season.

As the league prepares for another potential labor dispute, officials are considering rule modifications that would allow the replay center to correct obvious mistakes, including certain penalties not typically subject to review, if replacement referees are used.

SUNRISE, Fla. — A phone call from Italy several weeks ago changed the career trajectory of Michael White, leading him to become the Florida Panthers’ newest business operations president.

The person on the other end of that international call was Bill Zito, the Panthers’ hockey operations president, who reached out to offer insights about the organization’s operations. That conversation convinced White he belonged with the Stanley Cup champions.

On Tuesday, the Panthers made White’s appointment official, bringing aboard an executive with 25 years of experience in technology and customer experience fields. His responsibilities will include managing business operations for all four team facilities: Amerant Bank Arena, Baptist Health IcePlex, Panthers IceDen, and War Memorial Auditorium.

The opportunity to collaborate with Zito, who built the roster that captured Stanley Cup championships in 2024 and 2025, played a crucial role in White’s decision. Zito contacted him from Italy last month while serving with the U.S. men’s hockey team leadership during their gold medal victory at the Milan Cortina Olympics.

“We clicked automatically. Our first meeting was supposed to be 30 minutes, went an hour and a half and we probably could have talked another two hours,” White explained. “And we just stayed in touch throughout the process. I would say that we’re off to a really great start together and he was one of the primary reasons I came over here. He’s one of one, a legend, but also somebody that you want to partner with.”

White joins the Panthers organization after serving as Chief Product Officer at Zoox, Amazon’s autonomous vehicle division, where he helped develop self-driving robotaxis. While ice resurfacing machines still need human operators, the Panthers cited White’s strategic planning abilities as a distinguishing factor in their selection process.

“After a diligent and comprehensive search, we are confident that Michael is the right fit to lead our organization into continued success,” stated Michael Viola, a member of the Panthers’ ownership group. “He brings to our club a proven record in consumer experience, partnership growth and product development for some of the world’s most successful companies and invaluable capabilities of organizational leadership and visionary innovation.”

White faces an immediate challenge regarding the team’s future development plans. The Panthers must submit proposals to Broward County officials by fall 2028 for developing the area surrounding Amerant Bank Arena, their home venue.

His professional background includes multiple senior positions with The Walt Disney Company, where he contributed to organizing the 2019-20 NBA season restart at Disney’s Orlando-area campus during the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown.

White met with most Panthers staff members on Monday during his introduction to the organization.

“The organization is world-class,” White observed. “My previous job was great. Then I met the Violas and I’m like, ‘Wow, this is fantastic. Unbelievable ownership.’ Obviously, the winning that the team has done, and Bill’s done, the culture … it just permeates through. I just met 300 of the front-office folks and everyone literally introduced themselves and you could just feel the culture. For me, it’s a little bit of a listening journey to start and then we’ll see what we can do next. It’s a fantastic foundation and we’ll look for areas where we can amplify that.”

White takes over from Matthew Caldwell, who departed his role as Florida’s business operations leader in August to become CEO of the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves and WNBA’s Minnesota Lynx.

A controversy over religious expression in European football has emerged after the Union of European Football Federations imposed financial penalties on a Serbian soccer club for their fans’ religious display during a recent match.

The Serbian team received the fine after supporters unveiled a massive banner featuring Orthodox Saint Simeon accompanied by the message “May our faith lead you to victory.” However, Serbian officials are questioning the consistency of the ruling, noting that a German football team faced no disciplinary action when their fans recently showcased a large Satan image with the inscription “Hear us, Lucifer, rise from the abyss and accept our souls.”

The Serbian football club has announced plans to challenge the penalty through an official appeal process.

Arizona outfielder Corbin Carroll put on an offensive showcase, blasting a home run and recording a triple while driving in four runs as the Diamondbacks held off a late Detroit comeback to defeat the Tigers 9-6 in Phoenix on Monday night.

Carroll got Arizona rolling early with an RBI triple in the opening frame, then followed up with a three-run blast in the second inning to stake his team to a commanding 5-0 advantage against Justin Verlander, who was making his Detroit debut after returning to the organization on a one-year deal following his departure in 2017.

The veteran right-hander Verlander (0-1) struggled in his Tigers homecoming, surrendering six hits and five earned runs across 3 2/3 innings of work. The former Cy Young Award winner from 2011 had spent his first 13 major league seasons in a Detroit uniform.

Arizona starter Michael Soroka (1-0) delivered five shutout innings while matching his career-best with 10 strikeouts in his first outing for the Diamondbacks, who bounced back from being swept by Los Angeles in their season-opening series to capture their home opener. Soroka achieved an “immaculate inning” in the fifth frame, retiring three consecutive batters on exactly nine pitches. Paul Sewald closed out the victory with a perfect ninth inning to record his first save.

White Sox 9, Marlins 4

Miguel Vargas launched a grand slam and finished with six RBIs while Austin Hays connected on a three-run homer as Chicago captured its first victory of the season with a road win over Miami.

Japanese star Munetaka Murakami, who became the first player in White Sox history to homer in his initial three games, went 1-for-5 as his home run streak came to an end. Chicago rebounded after dropping three consecutive contests. Davis Martin (1-0) scattered five hits and three runs across five innings for the victory.

Miami suffered its first defeat following a three-game season-opening sweep. The Marlins received offensive contributions from Liam Hicks, who delivered a two-run homer and added an RBI single. Chris Paddack (0-1) made his Miami debut but struggled, yielding eight hits and eight runs in four innings.

Rockies 14, Blue Jays 5

Troy Johnston connected on a two-run homer to spark a seven-run sixth inning explosion as Colorado claimed its first victory in four games this season with a road triumph over Toronto.

Ezequiel Tovar collected three hits and three RBIs while TJ Rumfield contributed three hits and two RBIs for the Rockies. Braxton Fulford added a solo homer and an RBI single. Relief pitcher Chase Dollander (1-0) earned the win despite allowing four runs, five hits and two walks while striking out five over four innings.

Davis Schneider homered twice for Toronto while George Springer, Andres Gimenez and Kazuma Okamoto each added solo shots in the Blue Jays’ first loss in four games this season. Toronto starter Cody Ponce injured his right knee attempting to field Jake McCarthy’s grounder in the third inning and required assistance leaving the field.

Astros 8, Red Sox 1

Jose Altuve connected twice and Lance McCullers Jr. took a shutout into the seventh inning of his season debut as Houston dominated visiting Boston.

Yordan Alvarez and Brice Matthews also homered for the Astros, who captured their third consecutive victory after losing their first two games. Altuve recorded his 15th career multi-homer game and went 4-for-4 with a walk and four runs scored. McCullers (1-0) permitted one run on four hits with nine strikeouts over seven innings.

Houston jumped on Ranger Suarez (0-1) in his Boston debut. The southpaw gave up four runs on seven hits in 4 1/3 innings.

Mariners 2, Yankees 1

Cal Raleigh delivered a walk-off single in the ninth inning to give Seattle a victory over visiting New York.

Seattle reliever Matt Brash (1-0) threw a scoreless inning for the win. Luis Castillo tossed six shutout innings with seven strikeouts as the Mariners improved to 3-2.

Ryan Weathers went 4 1/3 innings and allowed one run on four hits in his Yankees debut. New York suffered its first loss after winning three straight.

Additional Games

In other action around the majors: Cincinnati’s Chase Burns threw five one-hit innings with seven strikeouts in his first major league victory, a 2-0 win over Pittsburgh; Washington routed Philadelphia 13-2 behind Luis Garcia Jr.’s three RBIs; Kansas City defeated Minnesota 3-1 in their home opener; Atlanta shut out Oakland 4-0; Chicago Cubs beat the Angels 7-2; Texas topped Baltimore 5-2; Tampa Bay rallied past Milwaukee 3-2; the Mets edged St. Louis 4-2; San Francisco defeated San Diego 3-2; and Cleveland handed the defending champion Dodgers their first loss of the season, 4-2.

The Vegas Golden Knights broke their three-game skid Monday evening, defeating the Vancouver Canucks 4-2 in John Tortorella’s first game behind the bench in Las Vegas.

Reilly Smith netted the decisive goal in the final minutes of the second period, while goaltender Adin Hill stopped 22 shots to secure the victory for Vegas (33-26-16, 82 points). The win moved the Golden Knights within a single point of Edmonton for second place in the Pacific Division standings.

Tortorella stepped into his role after the organization dismissed Bruce Cassidy on Sunday. The seasoned bench boss, now in his 24th NHL season, recorded his 771st career victory, placing him ninth among all-time coaching wins.

Additional scoring for Vegas came from Rasmus Andersson, Shea Theodore, and Cole Smith. The triumph marked just their second victory in eight contests.

Vancouver (21-45-8, 50 points) extended their losing streak to six games despite goals from Evander Kane and Brock Boeser. Kane reached a milestone, appearing in his 1,000th NHL contest. Goalie Kevin Lankinen recorded 30 stops in the losing effort.

The Canucks struck first when Kane converted on a 2-on-1 opportunity with Jake DeBrusk at 12:19 of the opening frame, burying a backhand attempt.

Vegas answered in the middle period as Andersson converted a Tomas Hertl feed, tapping the puck into an open net for his third tally in four outings.

Boeser restored Vancouver’s advantage on the power play, redirecting Filip Hronek’s point shot over Hill’s right shoulder from the high slot.

The Golden Knights seized control late in the second with two goals in a 77-second span. Theodore broke away and beat Lankinen with a wrist shot from the slot on the blocker side. Smith followed by converting a Brayden McNabb cross-ice pass, one-timing the puck off Lankinen’s glove and into the net.

With Vancouver pressing for the equalizer after pulling Lankinen with 2:15 remaining, Cole Smith iced the victory with an empty-net goal from the right boards with 1:10 left on the clock, marking his first goal as a Golden Knight.

At 41 years and 90 days old, LeBron James etched his name deeper into basketball history Monday night, setting a new age record for triple-doubles while powering the Los Angeles Lakers to a dominant 120-101 victory over the Washington Wizards.

The basketball legend achieved his 125th career triple-double by recording 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists, breaking his own previous age milestone of 41 years and 79 days. This marked James’ third triple-double performance this season.

The Lakers received strong support from Austin Reaves, Jaxson Hayes, and Luke Kennard, who each contributed 19 points to the winning effort. Los Angeles improved to 49-26 on the season and has now captured 15 victories in their last 17 contests. The team played without Luka Doncic, the NBA’s top scorer, who served a one-game suspension for accumulating technical fouls.

Hayes delivered a perfect shooting performance, connecting on all eight field goal attempts, while Kennard was nearly flawless from beyond the arc, hitting 4 of 5 three-point shots. The remaining Lakers struggled from long range, managing just 3 of 19 attempts from three-point territory.

Washington’s scoring was led by Will Riley with 20 points, followed by Justin Champagnie’s 18 points and Tristan Vukcevic’s 14-point contribution. The Wizards fell to 17-58 and have now dropped 19 of their previous 20 games.

Los Angeles opened strong with an 11-4 advantage after James finished an alley-oop pass from Reaves, but Washington fought back to take a 26-25 first-quarter lead on Jamir Watkins’ dunk with just 0.2 seconds left on the clock.

The Wizards extended their lead to 31-27 following a three-pointer by Jaden Hardy, but the Lakers responded with the first of two decisive 11-0 runs during the second quarter that essentially decided the outcome.

Washington struggled offensively in the second period, converting only 7 of 24 field goal attempts and managing just 1 of 10 from three-point range. The Lakers capitalized by attacking the interior effectively, with Hayes leading the charge with nine points and five rebounds during the quarter, helping Los Angeles build a commanding 65-44 halftime advantage.

The Lakers pushed their lead to 72-48 early in the third quarter, threatening another blowout loss for Washington, which had suffered a 35-point defeat at Portland the previous day.

The Wizards showed resilience with a 9-0 scoring run that cut the deficit to 81-71 after a Champagnie basket. They trailed 91-77 entering the final quarter.

Los Angeles put the game away with a devastating 13-1 run spanning just 1 minute and 44 seconds in the fourth quarter, expanding their lead to 114-84 and sealing the comprehensive victory.

SEATTLE — An advertisement featuring Aaron Judge and Cal Raleigh played on the T-Mobile Park videoboard as the Yankees slugger took batting practice before Monday night’s game between New York and Seattle.

Judge, the defending AL MVP, batted second in the Yankees lineup, while Raleigh — who finished second in MVP voting last season after launching 60 home runs, a record for catchers — found himself on the bench for the series opener.

Despite being benched and starting the season with just two hits in 15 at-bats along with 10 strikeouts, Raleigh emerged as the game’s hero. He entered as a pinch-hitter in the seventh inning and delivered a walk-off single down the first-base line in the ninth, securing a 2-1 victory for Seattle.

“I was just looking for something hard over the heart of the plate,” Raleigh explained. “It cut in on my hands a little bit, but I was able to keep it fair.”

Mariners manager Dan Wilson explained his decision to rest Raleigh, who participated in three World Baseball Classic games for Team USA, saying he wanted to manage the catcher’s workload early in the season.

“Coming out of spring training, he had sort of a shorter spring training in a lot of ways,” Wilson noted. “And, didn’t want to spike his workload too much.”

During his outstanding 2025 campaign, Raleigh set career highs with 159 games played and 705 plate appearances while leading the American League with 125 RBIs. Judge, speaking with The Associated Press before arriving in Seattle, praised Raleigh’s dedication after they were teammates during the WBC.

“Greatness leaves a trail,” Judge commented. “Just how he controls himself, how he controls that pitching staff, he’s going to have another great year, that’s for sure.”

Despite his remarkable previous season, the 29-year-old Raleigh experienced a slow start in 2025 as well. His batting average didn’t reach .200 until his 10th game, and he didn’t begin his home run surge until mid-April.

This history helps explain why Raleigh remains calm about his current struggles and those of teammates Josh Naylor (0 for 19) and Julio Rodríguez (1 for 19).

“It’ll be OK. I know a lot of people in that locker room, a lot of guys across the league are fighting the same thing,” Raleigh said. “They’re trying to find timing. And, it’s under a microscope more so now than it is in the middle of a season just because it’s the start of the season, everybody’s excited.”

Cleveland Guardians manager Stephen Vogt, a former major league catcher for a decade, believes Raleigh’s hitting achievements overshadow his complete skill set. Vogt considers him the premier two-way catcher in baseball today, though he cautions against unrealistic expectations following last year’s historic performance.

“For him to hit 60 homers again is unrealistic,” Vogt stated. “I think if anybody’s expectation is 50-plus homers for anyone, it’s just not realistic. But, I think Cal’s still a great offensive player, and I think he’s going to have another great year.”

While matching Babe Ruth’s 1927 record of 60 home runs — which stood for 34 years — may be unlikely, Raleigh has reached at least 30 homers in each of the past three seasons. The Mariners hope their All-Star catcher can maintain that level of production in 2026.

Wilson revealed that Seattle carefully tracked Raleigh’s workload last season, monitoring for any decline in performance. However, his production never wavered, and he didn’t miss his first start at catcher or designated hitter until the team’s 35th game.

This year, Wilson has adopted a more preventative strategy — and saw immediate benefits.

“We’re trying to assess this as we go and make sure that we don’t put him in a tough spot,” Wilson explained. “I think he’s a hard guy to get out of the lineup because he wants to be in there so badly. But, I think it just felt like today was a good day to get him some rest.”

PHOENIX — In his inaugural appearance with the Arizona Diamondbacks Monday evening, right-handed pitcher Michael Soroka accomplished a rare baseball feat by striking out three consecutive Detroit Tigers batters using exactly nine pitches during the fifth inning.

The 28-year-old hurler efficiently dispatched Javier Baez, Kerry Carpenter and Gleyber Torres, finishing with a 95 mph fastball that sailed past Torres for his tenth strikeout of the night, matching his personal best for a single game.

This marked Soroka’s debut performance for Arizona following his signing of a one-year contract worth $7.5 million this past offseason. The Canadian pitcher, who represented his country in the World Baseball Classic, joined an exclusive group within the organization.

Only three other Diamondbacks hurlers have achieved this nine-pitch, three-strikeout accomplishment: Hall of Famer Randy Johnson in 2001, Byung-Hyun Kim the following year, and Wade Miley in 2012.

Soroka earned All-Star recognition while playing for Atlanta in 2019, but consecutive Achilles tendon injuries derailed his career, forcing him to miss nearly the entire 2020 campaign and sit out completely during 2021 and 2022.

In a hard-fought opening round match at the Charleston Open on Monday, Yulia Putintseva of Kazakhstan overcame New Zealand’s Lulu Sun with a 7-6 (6), 6-2 victory after navigating a challenging first-set tiebreaker.

The opening set featured no service breaks through regulation play, and the tiebreaker remained deadlocked through nine points. Sun managed to secure a mini-break and held two opportunities to claim the set, but Putintseva fought back to erase both chances and won the final two points to take the set. The Kazakhstani player then dominated the closing stages, capturing the match’s last four games. Her prize for advancing will be a Wednesday second-round clash against top-seeded defending champion Jessica Pegula.

While no seeded competitors took the court Monday, the Charleston clay courts featured two matchups between American players. McCartney Kessler came from behind to defeat lucky loser Elvina Kalieva 4-6, 6-3, 6-3, and Alycia Parks mounted a comeback victory over Mary Stoiana 2-6, 6-4, 6-1 in the day’s final contest.

Additional first-round results saw Katie Volynets rally past Germany’s Eva Lys 5-7, 6-2, 6-0, while Ukraine’s Danaya Yastremska defeated Russia’s Anastasia Zakharova 7-5, 6-2. Florida’s 19-year-old Akasha Urhobo advanced when Argentina’s Solana Sierra retired while trailing 7-5, 3-0. Mexico’s Renata Zarazua dominated Sloane Stephens 6-2, 6-0, Bulgaria’s Viktoriya Tomova beat Jen Brady 6-4, 6-3, Hungary’s Anna Bondar edged Czechia’s Darja Vidmanova 7-5, 7-5, and Croatia’s Donna Vekic outlasted Australia’s Ajla Tomljanovic 3-6, 6-1, 6-4.

Meanwhile, at the Copa Colsanitas tournament in Bogota, Colombia, both seeded players competing on opening day advanced but in contrasting styles. Fourth-seeded Tatiana Maria, age 38, cruised past Colombian wild card Valentina Arias 6-2, 6-1, while eighth-seeded Panna Udvardy of Hungary navigated a roller-coaster match against Colombia’s Maria Torres Murcia, winning 6-1, 1-6, 6-0.

In an all-American encounter, 17-year-old Californian wild card Julieta Pareja defeated Elizabeth Mandlik 6-3, 6-3. Other results included Poland’s Katarzyna Kawa routing France’s Carole Monnet 6-1, 6-0, Greece’s Despina Papamichail beating Russia’s Anastasia Tikhonova 6-3, 6-1, and Argentine wild card Julia Riera defeating French qualifier Selena Janicijevic 7-6 (5), 6-1.

Toronto’s hockey organization announced Monday they will be separating from general manager Brad Treliving following almost three years with the franchise.

Treliving assumed his position in May 2023. Despite achieving strong standings in his first two seasons, which included capturing first place in 2024-25, the team has struggled significantly this year and is no longer in playoff consideration.

During the previous campaign, Toronto successfully advanced past the first round of playoffs by defeating the Ottawa Senators. However, this season finds the team sitting 14th among 16 Eastern Conference squads.

Keith Pelley, president and CEO of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, released a statement explaining the decision. “Throughout the course of this season, there has been deep analysis into both the current state of the Maple Leafs organization and the direction needed to achieve the ultimate goal of delivering a Stanley Cup championship to the city,” Pelley stated. “Brad Treliving is a man that we all have deep respect and appreciation for, both as a hockey executive and as a person, but it was determined that the club must chart a new course under different leadership.”

Pelley continued: “The organization is grateful for all that Brad has contributed in his nearly three years with the Maple Leafs and we wish him and his family the very best.”

Under Treliving’s management, the team compiled a 129-82-27 record during regular season play and went 10-10-0 in postseason games throughout his time with the organization.

Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Cody Ponce was transported off the field via cart Monday evening after sustaining what appeared to be a right leg injury during his debut with the team.

The incident occurred in the third inning as Ponce attempted to field a grounder during Toronto’s matchup with the Colorado Rockies. The pitcher collapsed in obvious discomfort while a Colorado runner crossed home plate to score.

Medical staff assisted the 31-year-old right-hander onto the cart before removing him from the game. The injury marked a disappointing end to what was not only Ponce’s first game as a Blue Jay, but also his return to Major League Baseball after a three-year absence.

Following his departure from MLB in 2021, Ponce spent time playing professional baseball in both Japan and South Korea before returning to the major leagues.

During his previous MLB tenure with the Pittsburgh Pirates from 2020-2021, Ponce compiled a 1-7 record with a 5.86 earned run average across 20 total appearances, which included five starts.

Relief pitcher Louis Varland took over pitching duties following Ponce’s departure from the contest.

SAN ANTONIO (AP) — Chicago Bulls management released guard Jaden Ivey on Monday following controversial anti-LGBTQ statements and religious commentary he shared through Instagram videos.

In the social media posts, Ivey criticized the NBA’s support of Pride Month, stating: “They proclaim Pride Month in the NBA. They proclaim it. They show it to the world. They say come join us for Pride, for Pride Month to celebrate unrighteousness. They proclaim it. They proclaim it on the billboards. They proclaim it in the streets. Unrighteousness. So how is it that one can’t speak righteousness? How are they to say that this man is crazy?”

Bulls head coach Billy Donovan addressed the situation before Monday’s matchup against San Antonio, emphasizing that the team employs people from “all different walks of life” and that Ivey’s statements are inconsistent with organizational principles.

“Everybody comes with their own personal experiences, but one is we’ve got to all be professional,” Donovan explained. “I think there’s got to be a high level of respect for one another, and we’ve got to help each other and then be accountable to those standards.”

This season, Ivey has been open about his struggles with mental health issues, including depression. Recently, he began sharing extended religious commentary through Instagram videos.

In another post, Ivey questioned: “How is it when the gospel is preached that people hate it? That people don’t want to hear it? And they think it’s strange when someone preaches the gospel, the true gospel?”

The Bulls obtained Ivey through a multi-team transaction with Detroit on February 3rd. His contract was set to expire at season’s end.

Team officials had already ruled him out for the rest of the campaign last week due to ongoing left knee soreness that has kept him off the court since February 11th. Across 37 games this season, including four appearances with Chicago, he posted 8.5 points per game.

“I don’t want to get into what he put out there, but certainly, I hope for him he’s okay,” Donovan commented. “I’ve had conversations with Jaden and he’s always been about rehabbing his knee and trying to get on the court and wanting to play. But I think organizationally, there are certain standards we want to have as an organization and try to live up to those each and every day.”

The National Basketball Association’s Board of Governors has given the green light to transfer ownership of the Portland Trail Blazers from Paul Allen’s estate to an investment group headed by Tom Dundon, who currently owns the Carolina Hurricanes, the league confirmed Monday.

The deal, worth roughly $4.25 billion, will be completed in two phases. The first portion, representing 80.1% of the franchise, will be finalized this week with a March 31 deadline, while the final 19.9% will change hands no later than September 1, 2028, according to various media reports.

The franchise will continue operating in Portland under the new ownership structure, with Dundon taking on the role of the Trail Blazers’ governor.

The ownership consortium includes several individuals with Oregon ties. Sheel Tyle, who established the Portland-based company Collective Global, is part of the group. Peggy Cherng, whose family operates the Panda Express restaurant chain and who studied at Oregon State University, is also involved.

Additional members of Dundon’s investment team include Marc Zahr, who serves as co-president of Chicago-based investment company Blue Owl, and Stanley Middleman, the founder and chief executive of Freedom Mortgage who also holds a partial ownership stake in the Philadelphia Phillies.

The new ownership faces several significant challenges moving forward.

The Trail Blazers, historically a consistent playoff contender, compiled a disappointing 117-211 record (.357 winning percentage) across four seasons with head coach Chauncey Billups at the helm. Billups was placed on indefinite suspension in October amid charges related to money laundering and wire fraud conspiracy connected to a federal gambling investigation. While technically still employed by the organization, Billups is not anticipated to return to his coaching duties.

With interim head coach Tiago Splitter leading the team this season, Portland sits at 38-38 with six contests left on their schedule and has secured a spot in the play-in tournament. The franchise’s sole NBA title came in 1977 when Bill Walton anchored the team and Jack Ramsay served as head coach.

The team’s home venue, the Moda Center, which first opened its doors in 1995, requires significant upgrades or complete replacement and represents a key component in revitalizing Portland’s Rose Quarter district.

Earlier this month, Oregon’s state Senate gave approval to a $365 million arena renovation plan funded through income tax collections. Furthermore, both Multnomah County and Portland Mayor Keith Wilson have committed financial support for the project, though these proposals still require approval from city council members. No timeline has been established for the council vote.

Allen, who co-founded Microsoft and amassed a fortune worth billions, acquired the Trail Blazers for $70 million in 1988. Following his death in 2018, his estate was instructed through his will to sell the basketball team to generate funds for charitable causes.

The Allen estate also maintains ownership of the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks and holds a 25% interest in Major League Soccer’s Seattle Sounders.

The National Football League announced Monday that American Express will serve as its new official payments partner through a multi-year agreement that begins with the 2026 season.

This partnership will provide American Express customers with exclusive privileges including early ticket access, unique on-site experiences, and special benefits for select NFL events both domestically and internationally, supporting the league’s ongoing global expansion efforts.

Cardholders will receive advantages connected to premier NFL occasions such as the Super Bowl, NFL Draft, and international games operated by the league. These benefits encompass presale ticket opportunities, exclusive promotions, and branded experiences at high-profile events.

Starting Tuesday, American Express customers can access early ticket sales for the September 10, 2026 NFL matchup in Melbourne featuring the Los Angeles Rams versus the San Francisco 49ers.

This collaboration reflects American Express’s growing investment in sports marketing, which the company considers fundamental to its brand approach. The financial services firm reports its sports partnerships now encompass over 50 leagues, teams, venues, and major sporting events worldwide.

The agreement replaces Visa, which concluded its 30-year NFL sponsorship relationship when its contract ended this month. Financial details of the new deal remain undisclosed.

“The NFL partnership was a natural extension” of the company’s current sports portfolio and will enable them to provide cardholders with enhanced exclusive access and football-related benefits, stated American Express Chief Marketing Officer Elizabeth Rutledge.

During this year’s NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, American Express will operate a public fan activation while providing eligible cardholders with priority access to certain league experiences, lounge reservations, and exclusive retail opportunities at the venue.

The company plans to introduce the NFL Extra Points American Express credit card later this year in the United States, issued through Comenity Capital Bank, offering fans rewards connected to NFL purchases and experiences.

American Express currently maintains individual partnerships with multiple NFL teams, including the Atlanta Falcons, New York Giants, New York Jets, and Miami Dolphins.

Several high-scoring college basketball players have announced their intentions to enter the transfer portal when it opens on April 7, according to multiple reports.

Georgia’s leading scorer Jeremiah Wilkinson, who averaged 17.4 points per game this season, will enter the portal according to his representatives who spoke with On3 on Monday.

The 6-foot-1 guard completed his sophomore year at Georgia after transferring from Cal, where he earned ACC Sixth Man of the Year honors for 2024-25 during his freshman campaign. Across 63 career games, Wilkinson has averaged 16.3 points, 2.0 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game.

During his time with the Bulldogs, Wilkinson converted 35.7% of his three-point attempts while contributing 2.0 rebounds and 1.7 assists across 31 games with 21 starts. He made 79 three-pointers and recorded 49 steals this season, concluding with a 30-point performance in Georgia’s first-round NCAA Tournament defeat to Saint Louis, where he went 7-for-15 from beyond the arc.

The transfer portal window runs from April 7-21, though many players are announcing their decisions early.

Butler guard Finley Bizjack, who ranked third in Big East scoring with 17.1 points per game, will also enter the portal while exploring NBA draft possibilities, according to On3.

Bizjack earned All-Big East third-team recognition after shooting 42.6% from the field and 34.9% from three-point range while adding 2.5 assists and 2.2 rebounds per game. Over three seasons with Butler, he compiled averages of 10.4 points and 2.1 rebounds in 98 games with 61 starts, shooting 36.1% from three-point territory.

Butler recently underwent a coaching transition, with former Butler standout Ronald Nored taking over for retiring coach Thad Matta.

Louisville freshman Sananda Fru, a German big man, plans to enter the portal following his first collegiate season, multiple outlets reported.

The 6-11 forward shot an exceptional 75.3% from the field, including 76.5% on two-point attempts, for the Cardinals. Fru contributed 9.0 points, 6.1 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game across 35 appearances with 29 starts, playing 22 minutes per contest.

Colorado forwards Sebastian Rancik and Bangot Dak, the team’s third and fourth-leading scorers respectively, have also decided to transfer, according to reports.

Rancik produced 12.3 points and 5.6 rebounds per game in 29 games with 26 starts, while the 7-foot Dak averaged 11.5 points, 6.5 rebounds and 1.6 blocks across 32 games with 30 starts.

Their departures follow Colorado’s top scorer, freshman guard Isaiah Johnson who averaged 16.9 points per game and was reported Friday to be portal-bound. The exodus leaves Colorado potentially short-handed for this week’s College Basketball Crown.

Ohio State forward Devin Royal announced Sunday he will explore the transfer portal after three years with the program.

Royal started for the Buckeyes for the second consecutive season, averaging 13.7 points per game, matching his previous season’s output. Through 96 career games with 59 starts, he has averaged 10.6 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. This past season, Royal expanded his range, making 31 of 98 three-point attempts across 32 games.

Jackson State guard Daeshun Ruffin, Division I’s fifth-leading scorer and SWAC Player of the Year, confirmed to The Field of 68 his portal intentions.

Ruffin averaged 23.3 points, 5.3 assists, 2.8 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game across 28 starts in his second season with the Tigers. He previously appeared in 25 games over two seasons at Ole Miss from 2021-23. Throughout his career, the scoring guard has averaged 17.0 points, 4.3 assists, 2.5 rebounds and 1.6 steals, though he requires an NCAA waiver for next season’s eligibility.

Montana’s Money Williams, a two-time All-Big Sky selection, has decided to transfer from the program.

Williams led the Big Sky and ranked 22nd nationally with 20.6 points per game this season, also contributing 4.7 assists and 4.3 rebounds per contest. Over 81 games with 60 starts for the Grizzlies, he averaged 16.3 points, 3.9 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game.

Saint Mary’s center Andrew McKeever, who topped the West Coast Conference in rebounding, will enter the portal with two years of eligibility remaining.

The 7-3, 285-pound McKeever averaged 8.2 points and 9.2 rebounds per game in 33 games with 10 starts for the Gaels. KenPom.com ranked him second nationally in offensive rebounding rate. His decision follows longtime Saint Mary’s coach Randy Bennett’s departure to Arizona State.

Missouri’s Anthony Robinson II will enter the portal after spending three years with the program.

Robinson started 31 games in 2024-25 before losing his starting position midway through this season, finishing with 33 games and 19 starts. He averaged 8.9 points, 3.1 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.6 steals this year, bringing his career averages to 7.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.7 steals through 96 games with 50 starts for the Tigers.

Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas announced he will take the ice Monday against the Toronto Maple Leafs, despite dealing with a lower-body injury that kept him out of Saturday’s game.

The matchup carries significant tension after Gudas delivered a knee-on-knee blow that ended Toronto star Auston Matthews’ season on March 12. The NHL handed Gudas a five-game suspension for the illegal contact, though Toronto players didn’t immediately retaliate during that March contest.

“It’s on me for not responding earlier to Gudas,” said Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly, who was on the ice when the incident occurred. “Obviously, it’s a dirty hit. I didn’t understand how bad he got him in the moment, but I take full responsibility for not being the first one in there or not being in there quicker to respond.”

The 35-year-old Gudas sustained his current injury during Thursday’s matchup with Calgary and was spotted wearing a walking boot. He missed Saturday’s contest against Edmonton but refuses to use the ailment as an excuse to avoid what could be a heated encounter with the Leafs.

“I think it’s gonna be an intense game. Yeah, one of the reasons why I wanted to play, you know, address things,” Gudas explained to media during Monday’s practice session. “You never want to watch your team play without you. I’m doing everything to play these games.”

“… Stand behind my own mistakes. I want to address it myself. So, that’s one of the reasons one hundred percent. It’s one of those games where I – where I have to play,” he added.

Matthews suffered a Grade 3 MCL tear and quad contusion from Gudas’ hit, requiring season-ending surgery on March 19. The injury effectively ended Toronto’s playoff hopes.

Currently in his 14th NHL campaign, Gudas has recorded two goals and 11 assists across 54 games this season, accumulating 45 penalty minutes. Throughout his career spanning stints with Tampa Bay (2012-15), Philadelphia (2015-19), Washington (2019-20), Florida (2020-23), and Anaheim, he has compiled 42 goals, 169 assists, and 1,102 penalty minutes over 883 games.

The Ducks enter Monday’s game with a 41-28-4 record and 86 points, maintaining a three-point advantage over Edmonton for the Pacific Division lead with nine contests remaining in the regular season.

Soccer legend Lionel Messi will take the field from the opening whistle when Argentina faces Zambia in a friendly match on Tuesday, according to national team coach Lionel Scaloni.

Speaking to the media on Monday, Scaloni confirmed the star player’s role in the upcoming game. “Yes, I think he’ll start from the beginning tomorrow,” Scaloni stated during his press conference.

This marks a change from Argentina’s previous friendly encounter, where Messi entered the match at halftime during their 2-1 win over Mauritania on Friday.

According to Scaloni, both the Mauritania and Zambia friendlies serve a crucial purpose in finalizing Argentina’s World Cup squad. The coach explained that these games will help determine the final 26-man roster for this summer’s tournament.

“The list of 26 players (for the World Cup), I think we’re above the percentage,” Scaloni explained. “We have to start discarding options now based on performance. There is no other option.”

The defending World Cup champions faced unexpected challenges against Mauritania, a team ranked 115th globally by FIFA and without any World Cup appearances in their history.

Reflecting on that performance, Scaloni noted: “The game the other night could’ve been an alert. It’s things that as a head coach one starts looking at and later, we will decide.”

While Messi’s World Cup participation remains undecided, Scaloni expressed optimism about the global icon’s potential involvement in the tournament.

“The important thing is that he comes and enjoys it,” the coach shared. “That he enjoy being at the World Cup, which in theory would be the last, but I wouldn’t dare to say anything, but that he enjoys it.”

Scaloni emphasized the worldwide appeal of seeing Messi compete: “I think it’s not just Argentines who want to see him, everyone wants to see him. They want to see him train, see him play, and that is what we all wish for.”

As Argentina pursues their fourth World Cup title, they will begin group stage play on June 16 against Algeria in Kansas City as part of Group J. Their tournament schedule continues with Austria on June 22, followed by Jordan on June 27.

United States Men’s National Team head coach Mauricio Pochettino suggested Monday that his tenure with the squad could extend beyond the upcoming 2026 World Cup.

Speaking to media ahead of Tuesday’s international friendly against Portugal at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, the Argentine tactician left the door open for future discussions.

“Who knows what is going to happen,” Pochettino said. “We are open. We don’t have (a) contract for the future but why not if we are happy and the federation is happy?”

“You can never say never. In football, everything can happen. I am very happy. Of course it is tough, it is a massive challenge, it is a bigger challenge than we thought or believed when we came here. But we are a coaching staff that loves a challenge.”

The 54-year-old manager joined the USMNT during summer 2024 under an agreement that concludes following the 2026 World Cup. The expanded 48-nation tournament will kick off June 11 and run through July 19, with games hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Recent speculation has connected Pochettino with vacant positions at Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur and Spanish giants Real Madrid, both of which dismissed their previous managers during the current campaign.

Throughout the past year, Pochettino has occasionally voiced interest in returning to European club management, where he previously guided Southampton, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and notably Tottenham from 2014 to 2019.

Regarding his former London club, Pochettino acknowledged his enduring emotional ties.

“It is impossible to feel nothing wrong about Tottenham, about the club, about the people that work there and about the fans,” he explained. “It was one of the best experiences of my life. Of course it’s my wish … and I think they are going to stay up. With coach or without coach.”

Despite the rumors, Pochettino emphasized Monday that neither Tottenham nor Real Madrid has approached him about potential opportunities following the World Cup, and he would not entertain such conversations until after the tournament concludes.

“Everyone knows that I am committed with the national team here,” Pochettino stated. “It’s not a point to talk about the future. At the moment, no one approached. Who knows what is going to happen.”

Tottenham, which dismissed Thomas Frank in February before parting ways with replacement Igor Tudor after only 44 days, has reportedly extended a lucrative long-term offer to Italian manager Roberto De Zerbi that would rank him among the Premier League’s highest-compensated coaches, according to The Athletic.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s interim manager Alvaro Arbeloa has delivered remarkable results since replacing the terminated Xabi Alonso in mid-January, capturing 17 victories in 21 matches.

PHOENIX — Atlanta Falcons General Manager Ian Cunningham plans to keep advocating for greater diversity in NFL executive roles, following Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier’s challenge to the league’s minority hiring requirements.

Uthmeier recently contacted NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, claiming the league’s two-decade-old Rooney Rule constitutes “blatant race and sex discrimination.”

“Just from my position, especially being a Black man, there’s still work to be done,” Cunningham shared with The Associated Press during Monday’s NFL league meetings. “Now that I’m in this position and have this platform, I’m going to be intentional about what we do from a grassroots effort to a director level.”

“I do think it’s important to give people of all races and sexes a chance to be in a position to further their career,” he added.

The Rooney Rule mandates that teams conduct interviews with a minimum of two minority candidates when filling head coaching, general manager, and coordinator roles. Additionally, teams must interview at least one minority candidate for quarterbacks coach openings.

Cunningham, 40, joined the Falcons organization this past January following a four-year stint as assistant general manager with the Chicago Bears. His NFL front office experience also includes work with the Baltimore Ravens and Philadelphia Eagles.

When asked about Uthmeier’s specific objections, Cunningham declined to comment, stating he lacked complete information about the situation.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles, one of only three Black head coaches currently in the NFL, similarly expressed the need for more details before weighing in on the attorney general’s complaint.

“The political part of it, if he wants it out, and he has reasons why, I got to hear cases and all that,” Bowles explained. “If I were the judge sitting behind a bench, I would probably have more info right now what he thinks, but I don’t.”

Uthmeier has demanded Goodell confirm by May 1 that the NFL will stop enforcing the Rooney Rule in Florida, warning of potential civil rights litigation. The state houses three NFL franchises: the Buccaneers, Miami Dolphins, and Jacksonville Jaguars.

“NFL fans in Florida don’t care what color their coach’s skin is,” Uthmeier wrote. “They care what colors their coach is wearing — and that those colors are winning on the football field. The Rooney Rule and its offshoots are illegal in Florida.”

The upcoming season will feature just three Black head coaches and four Black general managers across the league. Despite 10 head coaching vacancies this season, none were filled by Black candidates.

Robert Saleh, who has Lebanese heritage, was the sole minority hired during the recent coaching cycle when Tennessee brought him aboard.

This marks only the fifth occurrence since the Rooney Rule’s 2003 implementation that no Black head coaches were hired during an offseason. The previous instance with more than five openings occurred in 2013, when eight positions became available.

While Commissioner Goodell won’t address the media until Tuesday at the league’s annual meetings, he stated in February that promoting diversity remains a league priority.

“We need to continue to make progress,” Goodell previously said. “I believe that and I believe diversity is good for us. … I think we have to become a more diverse league across every platform, including coaching. But we still have more work to do.”

DENVER — Professional hockey players who represented their countries at the Milan Cortina Olympics reached their performance peak much sooner than they typically would during a regular season. Olympic gold required nothing less than their absolute best.

Now, with minimal recovery time behind them, these athletes must find that peak performance level once more as the pursuit of hockey’s most coveted prize, the Stanley Cup, approaches.

NHL franchises with Olympic participants are implementing strategic rest protocols as playoff season nears. This approach includes eliminating morning skating sessions, reducing practice participation, decreasing ice time during games, and in some instances, benching players entirely. Teams like the gold medal-winning United States, silver medalist Canada, bronze winner Finland, and fourth-place Slovakia essentially played the equivalent of an entire playoff series during Olympic competition.

“It’s a lot of hockey in a short amount of time,” said New York Islanders center Bo Horvat, who represented Canada in six contests over 10 days.

Some athletes gained valuable insight into recovery methods after participating in last year’s 4 Nations Face-Off tournament.

“Take the rest whenever you can find it, for sure,” commented Avalanche forward Brock Nelson, who contributed to America’s first Olympic men’s hockey gold since 1980. “The (NHL) schedule is just so compact for everybody now. Just trying to ride the energy.”

League play was suspended for 19 days between February 6-24 to accommodate Olympic participation. Combined with the holiday pause, each franchise must complete 82 games across 170 days — averaging one contest every 2.07 days, which is more compressed than the previous season’s 2.15-day average with the 4 Nations tournament. During the 2023-24 campaign, teams played every 2.26 days with breaks only for holidays and All-Star events.

Ottawa Senators player Brady Tkachuk found returning to regular season play challenging after captaining Team USA alongside his brother Matthew.

“It was definitely an adjustment coming back, not going to lie, playing in probably the biggest game that has been played in a while and then the emotions of winning,” Tkachuk explained. “It took a little bit to get readjusted.”

The 26-year-old Senators captain has returned to his typical performance level. Veteran teammate Lars Eller, who competed for Denmark in his inaugural Olympics at age 36, views this situation as preferable to mid-season struggles.

“We’re kind of past that Olympic fatigue now, if there was any,” stated Eller, whose squad is actively pursuing a wild-card playoff position in the Eastern Conference. “Now your energy level is actually increasing here towards the end as you’re fighting for a playoff spot and you’re eyeing the end of the season.”

Tim Stützle of Ottawa celebrated his 24th birthday in January, beginning his preparation to represent Germany at the Olympics and help his team reach the playoffs during last summer’s training.

“I was prepared to go for a long season, and yeah that’s where the foundation kind of builds,” said Stützle, who finished tied for second in Olympic goal scoring with four. “Obviously right after the Olympics, I was pretty exhausted with the time change and everything. But now I feel great.”

Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar emphasized that pushing through the fatigue remains the only viable option.

“You’re limited in your options,” Bednar stated. “It’s very little practice, lots of recovery days, whether they’re at the rink or away from the rink, trying to make sure we’re getting rest on the road and the travel schedule is appropriate. What do you do besides rest them?”

Colorado cannot afford extensive player rest periods. The Avalanche currently lead the Presidents’ Trophy race for the league’s best record, with Dallas trailing closely.

“So we’re not in a position, in my opinion, to be resting guys,” Bednar noted. “So you play through.”

Dallas management reduces strain on their Olympic athletes by decreasing playing time whenever feasible.

“You can’t just, say, give two days off and it’s gone,” explained Stars coach Glen Gulutzan. “You just do (the rest) over a period of time and get their bodies built back up.”

Stars defenseman Thomas Harley, who logged 118 minutes for Canada in Milan, maintains he hasn’t experienced significant fatigue. Dallas goaltender Jake Oettinger joked, “I mean, I didn’t play a single second at the Olympics so I’m fresh as a daisy.”

Oettinger, who served as Connor Hellebuyck’s backup, expects the Olympic experience will prove valuable during playoff competition.

“I learned a lot about what it takes to win,” Oettinger reflected. “I think a lot of those guys in that room had won Stanley Cups, and just the messages the guys were saying and how loose and light they were, even in the biggest pressure game of all time, was really impressive to watch.”

Avalanche forward Martin Necas has already recovered his energy after pacing Czechia with eight points across five Olympic games. The 27-year-old athlete appears refreshed.

“It was great to play on a different stage for a little bit,” Necas said. “Now it’s exciting to come back.”

Colorado sent eight NHL players to Olympic competition, including Cale Makar, Nathan MacKinnon and Devon Toews representing Canada. Minnesota, Tampa Bay, and Vegas also contributed eight players each, with four Minnesotans playing for Sweden. Dallas and Boston each provided seven participants.

Four Finnish Stars players — Miro Heiskanen, Roope Hintz, Esa Lindell and Mikko Rantanen — joined Colorado’s Artturi Lehkonen to capture bronze medals. Two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Florida led all teams with 10 Olympic participants but currently faces playoff elimination after consecutive seasons extending into June.

The most recent occurrence of NHL players winning Olympic gold and the Stanley Cup in the same year was 2014, when Jeff Carter and Drew Doughty helped Canada defeat Sweden in Sochi before Los Angeles conquered the Rangers in the championship series.

“Individually, guys have different things that they do (to get ready),” Nelson concluded. “But down the stretch here and playing these games, the energy is going to be high no matter what.”

Four seasoned NFL quarterbacks find themselves in limbo as the 2026 season approaches, with Aaron Rodgers, Kirk Cousins, Jimmy Garoppolo and Russell Wilson all lacking contracts.

Each veteran signal-caller faces distinct possibilities moving forward.

Rodgers, now 42, has the choice to rejoin Pittsburgh under new head coach Mike McCarthy or hang up his cleats for good. Steelers owner Art Rooney II informed media on Sunday that he anticipates the four-time NFL MVP will make his intentions known prior to next month’s NFL draft.

Despite a powerful finish to the previous campaign where he guided Atlanta to four consecutive victories, Cousins couldn’t prevent the Falcons from missing the postseason, ultimately costing coach Raheem Morris his position. The 37-year-old quarterback compiled 876 passing yards during that winning streak, recording seven touchdown passes against two picks while posting a 93.6 passer rating. He went 5-3 as a starter after beginning the year behind Michael Penix Jr.

Atlanta brought in coach Kevin Stefanski, acquired Tua Tagovailoa and cut ties with Cousins, who now faces the probability of accepting a reserve quarterback position unless an injury creates a starting opportunity elsewhere. Pittsburgh could become his destination if Rodgers chooses retirement and the Steelers seek another experienced quarterback following their progression from Wilson in 2024 to Rodgers in 2025.

Stefanski indicated that Tagovailoa and Penix will battle for Atlanta’s starting position. Penix, selected in the first round during 2024, underwent ACL reconstruction surgery this past November, leaving his availability timeline unclear.

“He has had great success in this league when doing a lot of things that we believe in,” Stefanski said of Tagovailoa. “He’s looking for an opportunity and we can provide that.”

Garoppolo could return to Los Angeles for a third campaign serving as backup to NFL MVP Matthew Stafford. Should that arrangement fall through, the Rams and coach Sean McVay might consider Cousins, given their previous collaboration in Washington when McVay served as offensive coordinator.

Wilson started the season with New York but ended up third on the depth chart behind rookie Jaxson Dart and Jameis Winston. The 10-time Pro Bowl selection appears to have exhausted his starting opportunities and seems to be generating minimal interest as a backup despite being a supportive teammate to Dart last year.

Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni stated that “nothing’s changed” concerning receiver A.J. Brown, who has been the subject of trade rumors.

“A.J. is an Eagle,” Sirianni said.

Philadelphia has entertained trade discussions for the veteran while also adding receivers Marquise “Hollywood” Brown and Elijah Moore, who were college roommates at Mississippi. Miami’s deal sending Jaylen Waddle to Denver for first, third and fourth-round picks has elevated expectations for A.J. Brown’s trade value.

Detroit coach Dan Campbell announced that three-time All-Pro right tackle Penei Sewell is prepared to move to the left side to shield Jared Goff’s blind side.

The Lions must fill the void left by Taylor Decker’s release. Sewell previously played left tackle at Oregon before Detroit drafted him seventh overall in 2021.

Cleveland has pulled back their proposal that would have permitted teams to trade draft selections five years ahead rather than the current three-year limit, according to a source familiar with the matter who requested anonymity since the Browns hadn’t publicly announced their decision.

Team owners will vote on additional proposals from the NFL competition committee and a Steelers proposal regarding player contact during free agency negotiations.

Rule modifications require approval from a minimum of 24 of the 32 franchises.

Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen has ditched the protective boot on his right foot following a bone fracture suffered during Week 16. The 2024 NFL MVP underwent surgery after the Bills fell to Denver in overtime during the AFC divisional round.

“His foot, I don’t want to say it’s 100 percent, but he’s good,” Bills general manager Brandon Beane told reporters Monday. “When he gets back in April, we expect him to be full-go.”

Former New York Yankees pitcher Ken Clay, who contributed to the team’s back-to-back World Series victories in 1977 and 1978, has passed away at 71 years old.

The Yankees received notification on Sunday from Dr. Jim Warner, executive medical director at Lynchburg’s Centra Heart & Vascular Institute in Virginia, that Clay had died Thursday at his Lynchburg residence. Warner reported that heart and kidney complications led to Clay’s death.

Primarily working as a relief pitcher throughout his career, Clay first reached the majors in June 1977 and participated in two World Series games against the Los Angeles Dodgers. During the 1978 World Series rematch with Los Angeles, he allowed a three-run home run to Davey Lopes in his sole Game 1 appearance.

Clay’s finest postseason performance occurred in the opening game of the 1978 American League Championship Series versus Kansas City. Entering the game with New York ahead 4-0, Clay took the mound in the sixth inning with one out and runners on all three bases. He delivered 3 2/3 innings without allowing a run and secured the save in the Yankees’ 7-1 victory.

The 1979 season proved difficult for Clay, who posted a 1-7 record and ended the year playing in the minor leagues. While still in the minors, New York dealt him to the Texas Rangers in exchange for Gaylord Perry. Clay started eight games for Texas in 1980, compiling a 2-3 record, before being dealt to the Seattle Mariners following the season. Seattle released him during 1982 spring training.

Throughout his major league tenure, Clay appeared in 111 games, making 36 starts, and finished with a 10-24 record, three saves, and a 4.68 earned run average.

During Clay’s struggles in 1979, Yankees owner George Steinbrenner publicly criticized his performance, infamously labeling him a “morning glory,” comparing him to racehorses that excel during practice sessions but fail to deliver during actual competition.

Clay encountered several legal troubles after his baseball career concluded. In 1987, he entered a guilty plea in Virginia for theft of more than $16,000 from a ring distribution company where he was employed. Five years later, he received a one-year Virginia jail sentence for stealing $550 from an automotive dealership employer. In 2001, Clay admitted guilt to forgery and additional charges in Florida, agreeing to reimburse creditors over $40,000 for fraudulently using his former girlfriend’s identity to deceive three credit card companies.

Kansas City Royals catcher Salvador Perez has emerged as the top performer in Major League Baseball’s new Automated Ball-Strike System during the season’s opening weekend, posting a flawless 4-0 record when disputing umpire calls.

The Royals and Arizona Diamondbacks stand as the only clubs with perfect challenge records, with Kansas City at 4-0 and Arizona at 3-0. Meanwhile, Houston struggled mightily at 0-6, and St. Louis went 0-3 in their appeals.

Among individual batters, San Francisco’s Heliot Ramos and Cincinnati’s Eugenio Suárez were the sole players to achieve 2-0 records on their challenges, with Suárez successfully overturning calls on back-to-back pitches. Los Angeles Angels superstar Mike Trout posted a 3-1 mark, while Atlanta’s Ronald Acuña Jr. was the only batter to go 0-2.

Teams are being strategic about when to use their challenges, focusing on critical moments in at-bats.

“1-1 counts. Counts that are going to end the at-bat. Those are big challenge times,” said Phillies manager Rob Thomson, whose team went 4-3.

The challenge system showed a 53.7% success rate across 47 games, with 175 total appeals averaging 3.7 per contest. Catchers proved more effective than batters, winning 59 of 92 challenges for a 64% success rate, while batters succeeded on just 33 of 78 attempts for 42%. Pitchers rarely challenged calls, with only five attempts total.

Cincinnati batters dominated with a perfect 6-0 record, while Atlanta hitters failed on all four of their challenges.

Umpire C.B. Bucknor faced the most scrutiny when six of eight challenges against his calls were overturned during Cincinnati’s 6-5, 11-inning victory Saturday. All six reversed decisions involved strikes being changed to balls.

Boston manager Alex Cora was ejected by Bucknor in that same game for arguing a checked swing ruling.

“I feel bad for them because everybody has a bad day,” Thomson said of the umpires. “The last thing you want to see is somebody get embarrassed. I don’t care who it is, player, coach, umpire. I don’t want to ever see anybody get embarrassed playing this game.”

Minnesota manager Derek Shelton made history Sunday as the first skipper ejected for disputing an ABS-related call, getting tossed in the ninth inning against Baltimore after protesting that pitcher Ryan Helsley took too long to request a review.

The new system, implemented this season, allows teams to contest strike zone decisions through technology utilizing 12 Hawk-Eye cameras that determine whether pitches cross the strike zone with precision within approximately one-sixth of an inch.

ATLANTA (AP) — As the World Cup approaches, Team USA defender Chris Richards has developed a humorous perspective on what defines American culture.

“Maybe the TSA lines right now, that’s pretty American,” Richards commented on Monday while preparing for a World Cup exhibition match against Portugal.

The Birmingham, Alabama native spends most of his time in London playing for Crystal Palace in the English Premier League. He returned to the United States last week to participate in two international friendly matches scheduled in Atlanta.

Previously, Richards had focused on American cuisine when describing cultural differences. During friendly matches in Texas and Colorado last October, he introduced teammates Cameron Carter-Vickers and Antonee Robinson, both raised in England, to the American dining experience at Chili’s Grill and Bar. The group also included Tim Weah, Weston McKennie, and Mark McKenzie, according to cbssports.com.

“The Triple Dipper you have to get but then I think it’s the endless chips and salsa, but then also there’s sports on TV and also the chocolate molten lava cake and it’s just like you’re sitting there and you’re looking at the ground, the tile,” Richards explained in his earlier comments. “You’re like, this is beautiful. This is nostalgia. This is really America … I think that’s one of the things that makes us American — places like Chili’s are like a staple and I think they finally could have that stamp on their passport now that they’ve had Chili’s so I was happy for them.”

Even France’s national team coach Didier Deschamps experienced America’s stringent airport security measures before his team’s friendly match against Colombia in Landover, Maryland on Sunday.

During a press conference prior to the Colombia match, Deschamps expressed surprise at the extensive security procedures his team encountered upon entering the country.

“At our arrival, we spent an incredible amount of time at the airport, with checks that I’ve never seen in my life,” Deschamps told reporters. “We are adapting.”

The Buffalo Bills have exercised the fifth-year contract option for tight end Dalton Kincaid, securing his services through the 2027 season.

Brandon Beane, the team’s general manager, announced the decision Monday during league meetings taking place in Phoenix.

The contract extension guarantees Kincaid $8.1 million for the 2027 campaign. The 26-year-old player was selected 25th overall in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

Kincaid earned his inaugural Pro Bowl selection in 2025 following a season where he recorded 39 receptions for 571 receiving yards and five touchdowns across 12 games played.

Throughout his professional career spanning 41 games with 24 as a starter, Kincaid has accumulated 156 catches for 1,692 yards and nine touchdown receptions.

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan acknowledged that wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk will eventually be separated from the team, but emphasized there’s no specific timeline for his departure.

Speaking to reporters Monday during the NFL league meetings in Phoenix, Shanahan addressed questions about when the organization might cut Aiyuk from the roster. “I don’t have a date,” Shanahan stated. “We’re in no rush to do that.”

The 28-year-old receiver signed a lucrative four-year, $120 million deal in August 2024, but his guaranteed money for 2026 was eliminated after he failed to report to the team facility for rehabilitation following knee injuries. Aiyuk suffered torn ACL and MCL injuries to his right knee during Week 7 of the 2024 season.

The situation represents a dramatic downturn for Aiyuk, who posted impressive numbers in 2023 with a team-leading 1,342 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. Throughout his five-year NFL career, the former first-round draft selection has recorded 294 receptions for 4,305 yards and 25 touchdowns.

Shanahan reflected on the unusual nature of the contract situation in November, saying: “I’ve been coaching over 20 years and I’ve never been in a situation where a contract’s been voided. It takes a lot of things to get a contract voided. Never dealt with that.”

General Manager John Lynch previously announced in February that Aiyuk would remain on the roster until at least March 11, when the new league year begins.

Rather than simply releasing the receiver, Shanahan expressed optimism about potentially acquiring compensation through a trade. Aiyuk hasn’t appeared in a game since October 2024.

“Eventually, it will resolve itself,” Shanahan commented. “Hopefully, we get something for it.”

With both Aiyuk’s departure looming and 2025 leading receiver Jauan Jennings expected to leave via free agency, San Francisco has already begun reshaping its receiving corps by signing veteran Mike Evans from Tampa Bay and multi-team player Christian Kirk.

Lynch offered praise for the departing Jennings, a 2020 seventh-round selection who compiled 210 catches for 2,581 yards and 22 touchdowns across 75 games with the franchise.

“He’ll find a good home, and Jauan will go play great football for someone,” Lynch told The Athletic. “I can’t say enough for what that guy did; when that guy stepped between the lines, man, he was a presence, and they had to deal with him, and he won us a lot of games.”

Duncan Powell, a senior forward on Providence University’s basketball team, was taken into custody Sunday in Cranston, Rhode Island, facing charges of domestic disorderly conduct, law enforcement officials confirmed.

According to WJAR’s reporting, the 23-year-old athlete’s former girlfriend informed police that Powell physically struck her and issued threats directed at both her and her friends.

Court records show Powell was set to appear for arraignment Monday morning.

The Providence Journal reported that university officials did not provide a response when asked for comment regarding the arrest.

During the current 2025-26 season, Powell has appeared in 22 contests for the Friars, starting five of those games. His statistics include 4.6 points per game, 3.0 rebounds per game, and 16.7 minutes of playing time per contest.

Earlier this year in February, the Big East Conference handed Powell a three-game suspension following a hard foul he committed against St. John’s player Bryce Hopkins, which led to an on-court altercation resulting in six players being ejected from the game.

The 6-foot-8 player from Dallas has transferred multiple times during his college career, beginning at North Carolina A&T from 2021-23, then moving to Sacramento State for the 2023-24 season, followed by Georgia Tech in 2024-25, before arriving at Providence.

Philadelphia Eagles General Manager Howie Roseman maintained his evasive stance when questioned about persistent speculation regarding potential trades involving star wide receiver A.J. Brown.

Speaking to media members on Sunday during NFL league meetings in Phoenix, Roseman acknowledged the widespread attention surrounding the situation.

“I understand that there’s interest in the A.J. Brown story. I, unfortunately, don’t have a home under a rock,” he told reporters Sunday at the league meetings in Phoenix.

“But my answer to any question on A.J. Brown is A.J. Brown is a member of the Eagles. From my perspective, anything you ask me about A.J. Brown, I’m going to go right back to that answer. But I understand the interest. I put on TV and I see that there’s interest, but my answer is A.J. Brown is a member of the Philadelphia Eagles.”

This response mirrors Roseman’s cautious approach from January when questioned about the team’s future plans regarding Brown, whose dissatisfaction with Philadelphia’s offensive system has become increasingly apparent during recent seasons.

“It is hard to find great players in the NFL, and A.J. is a great player,” Roseman said two months ago. “I think from my perspective, that’s what we’re going out and looking for when we go out here in free agency, in the draft, just trying to find great players who love football, and he’s that guy.”

Philadelphia faces no immediate pressure to move Brown, despite reports connecting him to the New England Patriots during this offseason. Financial considerations play a significant role, as trading him prior to June 1 would result in a dead salary cap penalty exceeding $40 million, while waiting until after that date reduces the hit to approximately $20 million.

The 28-year-old receiver’s production has declined over the past two seasons, recording an average of 72.5 receptions and 1,041 receiving yards, a notable drop from his impressive 97.0 catches and 1,476 yards per season during his initial two campaigns with Philadelphia from 2022-23.

Multiple reports emerged Monday indicating that NC State University is nearing completion of a deal to bring back alumnus Justin Gainey as the program’s new men’s basketball head coach. Gainey currently serves as associate head coach at the University of Tennessee.

The 49-year-old coach will step into the role vacated by Will Wade, who departed the program last week to return to his previous position at LSU. Wade led the Wolfpack to a 20-14 season record and secured an NCAA Tournament berth during his single year leading the program in Raleigh.

For the last five years, Gainey has been part of Rick Barnes’ coaching staff in Knoxville, where he helped guide the Volunteers to three consecutive Elite Eight appearances in the NCAA Tournament over the past three seasons.

This appointment marks Gainey’s first opportunity as a head coach. The former Wolfpack player suited up for NC State between 1996 and 2000, later building his coaching resume with assistant positions at Elon, Appalachian State, Santa Clara, Arizona, and Marquette before moving to Tennessee in 2021.

Barnes offered high praise for his departing assistant coach when speaking to The Athletic on Saturday. “I hope he gets the job,” Barnes stated. “I don’t think there’s anybody in the country that loves NC State more than Justin Gainey. … A terrific basketball coach. I mean, if you come to our walk-throughs, like today or the other day, he scouted the last game. I don’t say a whole lot because those guys have it.”

The Tennessee coach continued his endorsement, saying, “But Justin has an incredible feel for the game, really understands players. He works at it. Terrific recruiter. Understands the NIL era today. If NC State knew what I knew, they would be begging him to be their next head coach. Because he’s ready not just for NC State, he’s ready to be the head coach of the University of Tennessee or any school in the country. He’s that good.”

During his playing career under coach Herb Sendek, Gainey posted averages of 6.9 points, 2.7 assists, 2.5 rebounds and 1.5 steals across 128 games, starting 103 of those contests for the Wolfpack.

The final sprint of the NBA regular season is now underway.

As of Monday, just 111 games remain on the schedule, meaning 91% of the regular season has been completed. The field for postseason play has largely been determined: Milwaukee, Chicago, Washington, Brooklyn and Indiana have been knocked out of Eastern Conference contention, while Memphis, New Orleans, Dallas, Utah and Sacramento won’t be participating from the Western Conference.

This leaves 20 franchises using the remaining two weeks primarily to jockey for better playoff seeding.

Detroit, Boston, Oklahoma City and San Antonio have already locked up playoff berths, with New York, Cleveland, the Los Angeles Lakers and Denver appearing mathematically certain to join them soon. Houston and Minnesota are also close to securing their spots.

Portland and Golden State have guaranteed themselves play-in tournament positions.

Several key matchups highlight Monday’s slate:

Philadelphia visits Miami in a game where the victor claims the season series tiebreaker. The contest may mark Kyle Lowry’s final appearance as a player in Miami, where he previously starred. The Heat are coming off a disappointing defeat in Indiana on Sunday.

Boston travels to Atlanta for a rematch after defeating the Hawks by seven points on Friday. The Celtics have already reached 50 victories, while Atlanta has won 12 consecutive home games and 15 of their last 17 overall.

Phoenix faces Memphis in a crucial game for the Suns, who need victories to avoid the play-in tournament’s uncertainty.

Chicago meets San Antonio, where the Spurs have compiled an impressive 24-2 record since February 1st while pursuing the top overall seed.

Minnesota visits Dallas seeking to complete a 4-0 season sweep, having won the first three encounters by double-digit margins.

Other notable games include Cleveland at Utah, Detroit at Oklahoma City in a potential No. 1 seed showdown, Washington at the Lakers, and several matchups with play-in implications.

NBC Sports Network and Peacock will broadcast Philadelphia-Miami and Detroit-Oklahoma City on Monday, with Chicago-San Antonio also streaming on Peacock. Tuesday’s NBC and Peacock games feature New York-Houston and Portland-LA Clippers.

According to BetMGM Sportsbook, Oklahoma City leads championship odds at +140, followed by San Antonio (+550), Boston (+600), Cleveland (+900), Denver (+1100) and New York (+1500). Detroit, despite heading toward the East’s top seed, sits at +2500.

The remaining schedule includes all 30 teams playing their 81st games on April 10th and season finales on April 12th. The play-in tournament runs April 14, 15 and 17, with playoff series beginning April 18-19.

Conference semifinals start May 2-4, followed by the draft lottery and combine on May 10-17. Eastern Conference finals begin May 17 or 19 on ESPN and ABC, while Western Conference finals start May 18 or 20 on NBC and Peacock. The NBA Finals tip off June 3rd on ABC.

This season has featured exceptional scoring margins, with 81 games decided by 30 or more points after Sunday’s action, breaking last year’s record of 80 such contests.

Toronto’s 139-87 victory over Orlando on Sunday exemplified these blowouts, marking the second-largest win in Raptors history and biggest loss in Magic franchise history. The game included a remarkable 31-0 Toronto run spanning just 7½ minutes, during which Orlando missed all eight shots and committed 11 turnovers.

High-definition replay technology has transformed how major sporting events are officiated, with referees and umpires increasingly relying on video screens to examine disputed calls.

This technological shift has created a distinctive visual communication system throughout professional sports.

Basketball fans recognize the circular finger motion that players make when requesting a replay review during NBA contests. Football features coaches hurling red challenge flags onto the field, a gesture frequently copied by spectators in the stands.

International sports have developed their own symbols: Soccer players worldwide draw imaginary rectangles in the air to request VAR (Video assistant referee) reviews. Cricket athletes form a “T” shape with their hands to activate the DRS (Decision review system), while umpires respond by tracing a box in the air, similar to soccer officials.

Baseball has introduced its newest gesture to this growing vocabulary: gentle taps on the head.

The Automated Ball-Strike Challenge System has become an official component of MLB games, utilizing camera technology to monitor each pitch and determine if it passes through the strike zone over home plate. While human umpires continue making initial calls, both teams can contest two decisions per game.

Players including batters, pitchers, and catchers can tap their heads several times while verbally requesting a challenge when they believe an incorrect ball-strike call was made. Fans have quickly adopted this signal, performing the head-tapping motion when they disagree with umpire decisions.

“Everyone understands what touching the top of their hat signifies,” Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo explained with a chuckle. “It’s caught on incredibly quickly. I believe it’s beneficial — we all want accurate calls.”

However, these hand signals can sometimes be interpreted as disrespectful behavior.

Tampa Bay Rays infielder Taylor Walls received an ejection during a regular season game last year after disputing a call and tapping his helmet while confronting the umpire. The ABS system was tested experimentally during 2025 spring training but wasn’t permitted in regular season contests.

Walls insisted his gesture was harmless. Home plate umpire Nic Lentz viewed it differently and ejected Walls from the game.

Lovullo anticipates fewer miscommunications going forward.

“Players must also give verbal confirmation, which should prevent confusion,” he noted.

Video review expansion across sports has generated new tactical approaches for timing challenges correctly. Quick non-verbal signals often make these systems function effectively.

Numerous NBA franchises assign an assistant coach or staff member to monitor a tablet displaying the television broadcast, enabling rapid play analysis. Players frequently make impulsive choices during intense game moments — spinning their finger in the air when believing their team should challenge a call. (Reality check: Players consistently believe they’re correct.)

However, coaching staffs make the ultimate decisions.

For the New York Knicks, assistant coach Jordan Brink provides guidance to head coach Mike Brown.

“When he signals like this (nodding affirmatively), then you do this (finger twirl). When he signals like this (head shake), then you just think ‘Well…’ and have to apologize to your players,” Brown explained.

Cleveland Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson emphasized that “you must maintain self-control” since replay situations typically involve high emotions. Los Angeles Clippers coach Ty Lue couldn’t explain how the finger twirl became basketball’s standard replay symbol, but in his characteristic dry style, admitted its widespread use can be irritating.

“I’m tired of seeing it. Let’s examine that,” Lue commented, prompting laughter from reporters. “College players are doing it now too, it’s everywhere.”

MLB currently employs two replay signals. Managers request reviews of safe-out calls and other rulings by placing hands over their ears, imitating umpires wearing headsets to communicate with MLB’s replay center. This gesture and the ABS head-tap have emerged as traditional baseball hand signals fade away. For over 100 years, catchers used finger signals to call pitches, sometimes employing complex sequences to prevent opposing teams from deciphering upcoming pitches.

Everything changed after the 2017 Houston Astros cheating scandal was revealed in 2020. A system called PitchCom now transmits pitch calls and defensive positioning instructions without manual signals.

“Previously, dugouts used signals to indicate bunt attempts or delayed steals, but now it’s just pressing a few buttons,” Lovullo said.

Despite technological advances, hand signals remain prevalent in sports. Ironically, sophisticated video replay technology has become a primary reason for their continued importance.

The introduction of reviewable ball and strike calls in Major League Baseball has brought unexpected drama to the opening days of the new season.

Despite teams having limited challenges per game and advanced technology backing the decisions, tensions remain high. This was evident when Minnesota’s manager Derek Shelton was thrown out during the ninth inning of Sunday’s game against Baltimore following a disputed pitch review.

The controversial moment came with Baltimore leading by two runs, one runner on base, and one out. When pitcher Ryan Helsley’s 3-2 delivery to Minnesota’s Josh Bell was ruled a ball, Helsley signaled for a challenge by tapping his cap, then repeated the gesture for emphasis. Video review revealed the pitch caught the outside edge of the strike zone, reversing the call and striking out Bell. Shelton’s heated protest resulted in his ejection, and Baltimore secured an 8-6 victory.

Speaking to media after the game, Shelton claimed Helsley didn’t signal for the challenge fast enough.

Saturday’s matchup between Cincinnati and Boston also drew attention, with the Reds winning 6-5 in a game featuring eight Automated Ball-Strike System challenges with CB Bucknor calling balls and strikes. Six of those challenges resulted in overturned calls. Boston exhausted both their challenges before the third inning concluded, while Cincinnati went five-for-five on successful reviews.

While Detroit sent a two-time Cy Young Award winner to the hill on opening day, rookie Kevin McGonigle stole the spotlight with an outstanding debut performance Thursday.

McGonigle, ranked among baseball’s premier prospects, connected on the very first pitch he faced, delivering a bases-clearing double in the opening frame at San Diego. He continued his hot start with hits in his following two plate appearances. With Tarik Skubal pitching effectively, Detroit cruised to an 8-2 triumph.

St. Louis rookie JJ Wetherholt has also made an immediate impact. In just his second major league contest Saturday against Tampa Bay, he delivered a game-winning two-run single in the tenth inning. This heroic moment followed his home run in Thursday’s debut.

New York Mets newcomer Carson Benge earned a roster spot for the season opener and has already gone deep. Cleveland’s Chase DeLauter connected twice in Thursday’s regular season opener, including on his first swing, though he technically debuted during last year’s postseason.

Toronto established a new benchmark by recording 50 strikeouts through their opening three contests, with both Kevin Gausman and Dylan Cease reaching double-digit strikeout totals. The previous mark belonged to whom?

Seattle’s Emerson Hancock delivered six no-hit innings Sunday during an 8-0 shutout victory over Cleveland, fanning nine while issuing just one free pass.

After posting a 4-5 record with a 4.90 earned run average last year, Hancock earned a rotation spot due to Bryce Miller’s injury and made a compelling argument to retain his role with this impressive opening effort.

Thursday’s game between Tampa Bay and St. Louis featured a remarkable sixth-inning turnaround. The Rays plated six runs in the top half to grab a commanding 7-1 advantage, only to trail when the frame concluded.

St. Louis answered with an eight-run explosion in the bottom of the sixth to take a 9-7 lead, which held up for the final margin.

The Cardinals’ rally featured two-run singles from both Nolan Gorman and Nathan Church, followed by sacrifice flies from Wetherholt and Iván Herrera. Alec Burleson, who opened the inning with a base hit, provided the finishing touch with a two-run blast.

Each team sent 11 hitters to the plate during that wild sixth inning.

The answer: Cincinnati’s 2020 squad previously held the strikeout record with 46 through three games, featuring starts from Sonny Gray, Luis Castillo, and Trevor Bauer against Detroit. Ironically, the Reds dropped two of those three contests.

Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta has struck a deal to purchase the Connecticut Sun for a record-breaking $300 million, with plans to relocate the franchise to Houston in 2027, according to sources familiar with the transaction.

The WNBA Board of Governors must still give their approval for both the sale and the relocation. A source who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of the negotiations confirmed the historic price tag to The Associated Press.

Connecticut will host the franchise for one more season before the team makes its way to Houston, where it will revive the Comets name.

“I would have loved to remain in the region for our fan base and for the fact that I think this region deserves a women’s basketball team,” Connecticut Sun president Jen Rizzotti told the AP. “At the same time, it wasn’t my decision and I’m at a point now where my focus turns to making this the best season we can have and a memorable one for our fans. It’s an opportunity to say thank you to them.”

The sale marks the conclusion of the franchise’s 23-year presence in New England, which began when the team relocated from Orlando in 2003.

Houston had previously shown interest in acquiring the team last year, eventually increasing their offer to $250 million — matching what Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia paid for expansion rights. The final $300 million purchase price sets a new record for WNBA team sales.

A competing bid of $325 million from a group headed by Boston Celtics minority owner Steve Pagliuca would have brought the franchise to Boston, but the WNBA effectively prevented that transaction. League officials stated that “relocation decisions are made by the WNBA Board of Governors and not by individual teams.”

The league further explained that other cities had already begun the expansion process and held priority over Boston.

“This decision has always sat at the ownership level and we worked hard as a front office to make us New England’s WNBA team,” Rizzotti said. “Playing and selling out two games in Boston shows this is a market that can support a team at a significant level.”

During a press conference announcing three new expansion franchises, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert indicated Houston was next in line for a team.

Following Mark Davis’s acquisition of the Las Vegas Aces in 2021, the league has consistently brought in new ownership with NBA connections. The Golden State franchise, which debuted last season, belongs to the Warriors organization. Portland and Toronto are joining the WNBA this season with ownership groups tied to NBA teams.

The upcoming three expansion franchises — Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia — will all operate under NBA ownership groups from their respective cities.

Last week’s new collective bargaining agreement requires teams to maintain premium facilities comparable to NBA standards.

Making the announcement at this time provides clarity for potential free agents who could join the Sun next month.

“Morgan (Tuck) started last off season with the rebuild after our old roster turned over,” Rizzotti said of the Sun general manager. “She will now have clarity and strategic decisions regardless where it is if we remained in Connecticut or moving. With this new CBA in place, she can really evaluate the salary cap situation and build around the young core we established.”

The original Houston Comets were founding members of the WNBA and captured the league’s first four championships from 1997-2000. The franchise ceased operations following the 2008 season.

“My family and I are thrilled for the opportunity to bring the Houston Comets back to this incredible city,” Rockets alternate governor Patrick Fertitta said. “Houston has a proud championship history in the WNBA, with banners from the Comets’ four historic championship seasons still hanging in the rafters of Toyota Center. We believe the time is right to begin the next great era of Comets basketball, and we look forward to working with the WNBA as we move through this process.”

The Las Vegas Aces were the last WNBA franchise to change cities when they moved from San Antonio in 2017.

“What I don’t want people to forget is the Mohegan Tribe stepped up when nobody wanted a WNBA team and there were NBA owners folding franchises left and right,” Rizzotti said. “I hope that regardless of people’s feelings around this, they’ll remember that we had a really supportive ownership group that poured into the franchise for over two decades.

“The decision they made now doesn’t erase the fact they were there for the WNBA in a time of need and kept them going when it wasn’t as popular as it is now to have a franchise.”

The National Football League will begin recruiting and preparing substitute officials in the coming weeks as contract talks with the referees’ union have reached an impasse, according to two sources familiar with the negotiations who spoke to The Associated Press.

The sources requested anonymity Sunday due to the confidential nature of the ongoing discussions.

Contract talks between the NFL and the NFL Referees Association have been ongoing since summer 2024, with the existing collective bargaining agreement set to expire May 31.

While the league has raised its compensation proposal to 6.45% yearly increases over a six-year contract, the referees’ union is demanding 10% annual raises plus an additional $2.5 million for marketing fees, according to the sources.

The NFL wants to link official compensation to job performance, ensuring only top-performing regular season referees receive year-end bonuses from a shared pool.

League officials also seek more authority to place their best referees in playoff games. Under the existing contract, seniority plays a role in determining postseason officiating assignments.

Another NFL priority involves reducing the “dark period” – currently a three-month span from the Super Bowl through May 15 when the league cannot contact game officials. The NFL aims to maintain year-round communication for rules clarification, video analysis, procedural training and relevant committee participation to enhance both game quality and official performance.

While the NFL has offered to employ some referees on a full-time basis, one source indicated the union opposes this change, seeking “full-time pay and part-time hours.”

The NFLRA was not available for immediate comment.

As the league prepares for possible substitute officials, the NFL competition committee has drafted a backup plan allowing the New York replay center to alert field referees about overlooked roughing the passer calls, intentional grounding violations, and actions warranting ejections if penalties had been assessed. Team owners will decide on this proposal during this week’s annual meeting.

The league previously employed replacement referees during the opening three weeks of the 2012 season, leading to numerous errors and controversial decisions, including the infamous “Fail Mary” touchdown ruling.

Scottie Barnes delivered 23 points and a career-best 15 assists for his second straight double-double performance as the Toronto Raptors demolished the Orlando Magic 139-87 on Sunday in a historic blowout.

The crushing 52-point defeat marked the worst loss in Magic franchise history, surpassing their previous low of a 47-point defeat to Chicago in 2017. Toronto seized control early with an incredible 31-0 scoring streak during the first half, then added insult to injury with a 17-0 run spanning the end of the third quarter into the fourth period.

The devastating three-minute burst expanded Toronto’s commanding 38-point advantage to an insurmountable 55-point margin. Orlando briefly showed signs of life in the final quarter with a 15-4 surge that cut the deficit to 45 points with 4:26 left on the clock. However, a Moritz Wagner three-pointer capped that run and represented the Magic’s final points of the game.

RJ Barrett topped all scorers with 24 points while leading eight Toronto players who reached double digits. Jamal Shead contributed 12 points and 10 assists, with Ja’Kobe Walter and Jakob Poetlt each adding 11 points. For Orlando, Desmond Bane paced the scoring with 17 points, Jalen Suggs managed 13 points and five assists, and Tristan da Silva chipped in 12 points. Star player Paolo Banchero, the team’s leading scorer, was held to just nine points.

In other NBA action, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 30 points powered Oklahoma City past New York 110-100 at home. The Thunder extended their hot streak to 14 wins in 15 games, building a 2.5-game cushion over San Antonio atop the Western Conference standings. Jalen Williams contributed 22 points on efficient 7-of-11 shooting in his most extensive action since returning from a hamstring injury. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 32 points, while Josh Hart, Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges each scored 15. Towns also grabbed 18 rebounds in the loss that snapped New York’s seven-game winning streak.

The Los Angeles Clippers defeated Milwaukee 127-113 behind Bennedict Mathurin’s 28 points and John Collins’ 22-point effort. Kawhi Leonard added 20 points and eight rebounds while Darius Garland posted a double-double with 15 points and 11 assists as Los Angeles won its fifth consecutive game. The struggling Bucks dropped their fourth straight contest and 14th in 17 games despite Gary Trent Jr.’s game-high 36 points and Taurean Prince’s 18 points, eight assists and six rebounds. Milwaukee played without key players Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kyle Kuzma, Kevin Porter Jr. and Gary Harris.

Jayson Tatum’s 32 points, five rebounds and eight assists led short-handed Boston to a 114-99 road victory over Charlotte, extending the Celtics’ winning streak to three games. Payton Pritchard added 28 points, six rebounds and six assists with Jaylen Brown and Derrick White sidelined. Neemias Queta contributed 17 points and eight rebounds. The Hornets struggled from long range, connecting on just 12 of 43 three-point attempts (27.9%), with Kon Knueppel particularly cold at 1-for-6 from beyond the arc. LaMelo Ball led Charlotte with 19 points and Miles Bridges scored 14.

Pascal Siakam dominated with 30 points, 11 rebounds and six assists as Indiana topped visiting Miami 135-118. Micah Potter knocked down five three-pointers for 21 points, Kobe Brown added 18 and Andrew Nembhard tallied 15 points and 10 assists for the Pacers, who earned their first home victory since January 31. T.J. McConnell contributed 15 points and nine assists while Obi Toppin finished with 12. Tyler Herro paced Miami with 31 points, followed by Jaime Jaquez Jr.’s 17. Bam Adebayo recorded 15 points and 12 rebounds for the Heat, who lost their seventh game in eight attempts.

Portland crushed visiting Washington 123-88 as Toumani Camara scored 23 points with seven rebounds and Scoot Henderson added 21 points and seven assists. Former Wizards player Deni Avdija contributed 20 points, seven rebounds and five assists as the Trail Blazers never trailed while winning their sixth game in eight contests. Portland now sits just 1.5 games behind the eighth-place Los Angeles Clippers in Western Conference play-in positioning. Will Riley led Washington with 14 points off the bench as the Wizards suffered their 18th loss in 19 games. Bub Carrington scored 11 points before exiting in the final quarter with muscle cramps.

Alperen Sengun posted 36 points and 13 rebounds while adding seven assists, three steals, three blocks and five three-pointers in Houston’s 134-102 victory over host New Orleans. Jabari Smith Jr. and Kevin Durant each scored 20 points as the Rockets extended their lead over Phoenix to four games for the No. 6 Western Conference seed. Clint Capela grabbed 14 rebounds in just 16 minutes off the bench. Dejounte Murray led New Orleans with 19 points as the Pelicans (25-51) dropped their fifth straight game. Saddiq Bey and Zion Williamson each contributed 18 points.

Brooklyn snapped a 10-game losing streak with a 116-99 victory over Sacramento in New York, getting 17 fourth-quarter points from Ochai Agbaji and rookie Drake Powell. The Nets took control early and never relinquished their lead, building a 27-point advantage midway through the second quarter for their first win since March 9. Agbaji finished with 18 points and Powell scored 16, while rookie Nolan Traore added 17 points and six assists. The victory marked just Brooklyn’s third win in 23 games. Sacramento extended their road struggles against Eastern Conference teams to 11 straight losses while playing without DeMar DeRozan (hamstring) and Malik Monk (bruised shoulder). Devin Carter paced the Kings with 20 points, rookie Nique Clifford contributed 17 points and seven rebounds, and Precious Achiuwa chipped in 16 points and eight boards.

The professional surfing world championship tour launches its historic 50th season this week, beginning at the legendary Bells Beach in Australia before embarking on a globe-spanning journey that will end at Hawaii’s famous Banzai Pipeline in December.

The World Surf League’s championship circuit will visit 12 locations across nine nations, starting with the opening rounds that will include complete fields of 36 male competitors and 24 female surfers. Competition will intensify as the season progresses, with the field condensing to 24 men and 16 women for the final two regular season events that will decide who advances to compete for world titles.

The 2026 WSL Championship Tour schedule includes:

April 1-11: Bells Beach, Victoria, Australia
April 16-26: Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia
May 1-11: Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
May 15-25: Raglan, New Zealand
June 5-15: Punta Roca, El Salvador
June 19-27: Saquarema, Brazil
August 8-18: Teahupo’o, Tahiti
August 25-September 4: Cloudbreak, Fiji
September 11-20: Lower Trestles, California, USA
October 14-18: Surf Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (marking the end of regular season and beginning of post-season)
October 22-November 1: Peniche, Portugal
December 8-20: Pipe Masters, Hawaii, USA

The season finale at the Pipe Masters will reunite the complete championship tour fields with post-season qualifiers, with points awarded at 1.5 times their normal value for the climactic event.

Three surfing legends are making their highly anticipated return to professional competition this week as the elite world tour launches its 50th season at Australia’s renowned Bells Beach. Veterans Stephanie Gilmore, Carissa Moore, and Gabriel Medina are stepping back into the spotlight to compete against an emerging generation of athletes who have transformed the sport’s competitive landscape.

The returning champions, who each took time away from competition for personal reasons, will encounter heightened competition levels on the 12-event tour, especially during contests featuring massive, challenging waves.

“I am so stoked to be back,” said Moore, a five-time world champion who welcomed her first child last year. “Being away for two years really gave me a renewed sense of appreciation for the sport – getting to do something that pushes me out of my comfort zone every day and challenges me and takes me around the world and meet great people.”

The Hawaiian champion previously captured Olympic gold in Tokyo and sat out the 2024 season to prepare for defending her title at Tahiti’s dangerous Teahupo’o reef break. While competing pregnant with daughter Olena, Moore failed to medal and subsequently dedicated time to motherhood while watching the sport from afar.

“Yeah, it’s been fun to be a fan the last two years, I’ll tell you that,” the 33-year-old athlete commented. “I’ve been super impressed with how everybody’s been competing and raising the level of the sport, especially in waves of consequence.”

Moore and Australia’s Gilmore, age 38, controlled women’s professional surfing for over ten years, accumulating 13 world championships combined. During their hiatus, a group of twenty-something competitors spearheaded by 2025 champion Molly Picklum, Olympic gold winner Caroline Marks, and 2024 top-ranked Caitlin Simmers have delivered exceptional performances in powerful surf conditions at Teahupo’o and Hawaii’s Pipeline.

However, even these accomplished athletes may need to watch for an emerging talent in French teenager Tya Zebrowski, who becomes the youngest competitor ever to join the elite tour at just 15 years old.

In men’s competition, Brazil’s Medina is returning from injury but won’t be able to continue his famous rivalry with Hawaii’s John John Florence, who chose to spend another year sailing globally with his family. This leaves the 32-year-old Brazilian and his compatriots Yago Dora, the current champion, and two-time titleholder Filipe Toledo to compete against California’s Griffin Colapinto and Australians Jack Robinson and Ethan Ewing for the championship.

Competition begins Wednesday at Bells Beach, with the tour traveling through nine nations before concluding at Pipeline in surfing’s traditional home in December. The schedule includes New Zealand’s Raglan as a new venue, offering the high-performance left-hand waves many competitors have desired, while Australia’s Gold Coast and California’s Lower Trestles return to the lineup.

Uncertainty surrounds the wave pool competition planned for Abu Dhabi in October due to ongoing Middle East conflicts. In a significant format change announced previously, the World Surf League eliminated its controversial winner-takes-all finale, returning to a cumulative scoring system for determining champions. The final Pipeline event will carry 1.5 times the points of regular tour stops to acknowledge its special significance.

A recent addition is the maternity wild card program starting in 2027, an initiative that particularly pleased Moore. “I hope that I can inspire other moms to keep doing what they love too,” Moore stated. “I am excited about and motivated to push myself in ways that I haven’t before, and see who I can become and how I can become a better person, a better mom, a better wife, a better sister, friend, daughter, all those things.”

The Boston Bruins pulled off a remarkable comeback Sunday night, erasing a three-goal third-period deficit to defeat the Columbus Blue Jackets 4-3 in a shootout, with Viktor Arvidsson delivering the clinching goal after recording three assists during regulation play.

Pavel Zacha completed the dramatic rally by evening the score at 3-3 with just 11 seconds left on the clock, converting a power-play opportunity during a 6-on-4 advantage following a chaotic scramble in front of the net.

Zacha finished with two goals and one assist, while Charlie McAvoy contributed a goal and an assist for Boston (42-24-8, 92 points). The Bruins have now won five of their last six contests and hold a four-point advantage over Columbus in the race for the Eastern Conference’s first wild card playoff spot. Goaltender Jeremy Swayman turned away 21 shots in the victory.

For the Blue Jackets (38-23-12, 88 points), Mason Marchment recorded a goal and an assist, while Kirill Marchenko added two assists. Goalie Jet Greaves made 35 saves in the losing effort. Columbus has now dropped four of their past five games (1-3-1). Boston’s David Pastrnak saw his 12-game point streak come to an end.

Flyers 2, Stars 1 (OT)

Trevor Zegras found the back of the net with 1:33 remaining in overtime, leading Philadelphia past Dallas at home while matching his career-best mark of 23 goals this season.

Philadelphia goaltender Samuel Ersson stopped 17 shots and also recorded an assist on the game-winning goal for the Flyers, who have compiled an impressive 8-1-1 record over their last 10 outings. Following a scoreless opening frame, Travis Konecny put Philadelphia on the board with a power-play tally midway through the second period. The forward received a pass from Matvei Michkov near the goal line, moved to the front of the crease, and slid the puck past Casey DeSmith for his 26th goal of the campaign.

Dallas has already secured a playoff berth but has managed just one victory in their last six games. DeSmith made 28 saves for the Stars, while Arttu Hyry notched his first NHL goal.

Rangers 3, Panthers 1

Rookie Adam Sykora found the net for the second consecutive game, Igor Shesterkin stopped 26 shots, and New York defeated Florida at home for their second straight victory following a season-worst six-game losing streak.

Conor Sheary scored on a short-handed breakaway with 8:46 remaining in the final period. Adam Fox sealed the Rangers’ victory with a short-handed empty-net goal with 3:54 left in the third.

Mackie Samoskevich scored in the closing minute as Florida dropped to 2-6-0 in their last eight contests. Sergei Bobrovsky made 18 saves in defeat.

Canadiens 3, Hurricanes 1

Nick Suzuki netted two goals and added an assist to power Montreal’s comeback victory in Raleigh, N.C., extending their winning streak to five games against Carolina.

Cole Caufield contributed a goal and an assist while Lane Hutson recorded two assists for the Canadiens. Goaltender Jakub Dobes made 34 saves as Montreal maintained third place in the Atlantic Division standings.

Andrei Svechnikov scored for Carolina and Frederik Andersen stopped 15 shots for the Hurricanes, who have suffered just two defeats in their past six games — both against Montreal. Carolina continues to lead the Metropolitan Division by nine points.

Devils 5, Blackhawks 3

Dougie Hamilton and Jack Hughes scored within 19 seconds of each other late in the third period, sparking New Jersey’s comeback victory over Chicago at home.

Hamilton knotted the score at 3-3 with a wrist shot from the right faceoff circle that found the far corner at 14:32, and Hughes converted a breakaway down the right wing at 14:51 to give New Jersey a 4-3 advantage. Hughes added an empty-net goal with 31 seconds remaining to finish with two goals and two assists.

Connor Brown and Simon Nemec also scored for the Devils, while Jake Allen made 28 saves. New Jersey has won six of eight games. Frank Nazar scored twice for Chicago, Ilya Mikheyev added a goal, and Spencer Knight stopped 35 shots for the Blackhawks, who have lost five of six.

Lightning 3, Predators 2

Corey Perry scored the go-ahead goal off a rebound in the third period as Tampa Bay held on to reclaim the top spot in the Atlantic Division with a victory over Nashville at home.

Perry’s 15th goal of the season and fourth in 13 games since returning to Tampa Bay came at 6:52 of the final period, allowing the Lightning (46-21-6, 98 points) to match Buffalo in points while holding one game in hand over the surging Sabres. Jake Guentzel recorded a goal and two assists, while Brandon Hagel scored once to tie his career-high mark of 35 goals, which he set last season with Tampa Bay.

Filip Forsberg tallied a goal and an assist, Joakim Kemell scored his first NHL goal in his 10th career appearance, and defenseman Justin Barron earned an assist in his 200th game as Nashville (34-31-9, 77 points) suffered their third consecutive loss (0-3-0).

SEATTLE — What a difference a year makes for Seattle Mariners pitcher Emerson Hancock. After managing just two outs in his season opener last year, the right-hander delivered a masterful performance Sunday at T-Mobile Park.

Hancock dominated the Cleveland Guardians for six hitless innings, striking out nine batters while leading Seattle to an 8-0 victory. The stellar outing marked a dramatic turnaround from his struggles in 2025.

“A year ago, right now, we’re having a completely different conversation. Things went completely different,” Hancock said with a laugh. “But, I think that’s just part of this game. And you’re going to struggle, there’s going to be ups, there’s going to be downs.”

The 30,800 fans in attendance certainly weren’t seeing any downs on this afternoon. They gave Hancock a rousing standing ovation after he completed a perfect sixth inning, capping off his dominant performance.

Hancock’s achievement placed him in elite company, becoming only the second Mariners pitcher alongside Félix Hernández to record nine or more strikeouts in a hitless outing lasting at least six innings. Hernández accomplished the feat during his perfect game in 2012.

The nine strikeouts represented a personal best for Hancock, powered largely by his four-seam fastball that fooled Cleveland hitters into nine swing-and-miss attempts. Combined with an improved sweeper he worked on extensively during the winter, his fastball kept the Guardians off balance throughout the evening.

“You’re playing the speed game and the break game,” Hancock explained. “It’s something slower, it’s something that is breaking a lot through the zone. And if you can throw it in the zone, it can help a ton. And then the heater for me, I’m just trying to see it as the mask and just kind of rip it.”

The 26-year-old navigated Cleveland’s batting order with ease. His only baserunners came via a first-inning walk to José Ramírez and when he plunked CJ Kayfus with a fastball in the sixth.

Manager Dan Wilson made the decision to remove Hancock after six innings and 97 pitches, ending any possibility of the seventh no-hitter in franchise history.

“What he did today was really good execution,” Wilson explained. “Really hard to take a guy out after no hits, six innings. But, pitch count was where it was.”

Cleveland rookie Chase DeLauter ended Seattle’s combined no-hit hopes by lining a clean single off reliever Cooper Criswell to start the seventh inning.

Despite cooler temperatures in the low 40s throughout the chilly Pacific Northwest afternoon, Hancock’s velocity was slightly reduced compared to last season. Both he and Wilson attributed this to the early stage of the campaign and the cold conditions.

Third baseman Brendan Donovan was struck by Hancock’s aggressive approach from the beginning, noting how the pitcher attacked the strike zone early and often. Hancock threw first-pitch strikes to 12 of his 19 batters faced and didn’t allow a single ball to leave the infield.

“I feel like he had confidence in everything that was coming out of his hand,” Donovan observed. “Mixing speeds, locations, high levels. Kind of in and out, down, everything seemed to be working for him.”

This performance stood in stark contrast to Hancock’s disastrous 2025 season opener, after which he eventually moved to the bullpen as Seattle’s rotation regained health. Hancock earned his current rotation spot partly due to an injury to Bryce Miller during spring training.

If Hancock can replicate Sunday’s brilliance consistently, Wilson may face more difficult decisions beyond simply managing pitch counts.

“What an incredible performance by Emerson Hancock,” Wilson said. “It was impressive.”

Seattle pitcher Emerson Hancock nearly achieved baseball perfection Sunday, tossing six no-hit innings before being removed from the game as the Mariners crushed the Cleveland Guardians 8-0 to split their four-game series.

Hancock (1-0), filling in for injured starter Bryce Miller who’s sidelined with an oblique injury, dominated Cleveland hitters by striking out nine batters while walking just one and hitting another. Remarkably, no Cleveland batter managed to hit a ball beyond the infield during Hancock’s dominant outing.

The Guardians came closest to breaking through against Hancock during the third frame when bottom-of-the-order hitter Brayan Rocchio grounded a ball that caromed off first base and popped high into the air. Josh Naylor corralled the unusual bounce and easily tagged the base ahead of Rocchio.

Cleveland finally broke up the no-hit attempt when Chase DeLauter lined a single to right field off reliever Cooper Criswell to open the seventh inning. The Guardians managed only one additional hit – a single by Daniel Schneemann with one out in the eighth. Cleveland starter Slade Cecconi (0-1) struggled through 4 1/3 innings, surrendering six runs on six hits while walking three and striking out five.

In other Sunday action, Toronto powered past Oakland 5-2 behind home runs from Jesus Sanchez, George Springer and Kazuma Okamoto. The Blue Jays received strong pitching from Eric Lauer (1-0), who allowed just two runs while fanning nine over 5 1/3 innings.

Kansas City salvaged the finale of their Atlanta series with a 4-1 victory, getting 6 1/3 scoreless innings from Seth Lugo (1-0). Bobby Witt Jr. extended his hitting streak to three games and delivered his first RBI of the season for the Royals.

Cincinnati erased a two-run deficit when Eugenio Suarez launched a three-run homer to lift the Reds over Boston 3-2 in their series rubber match. Rookie Sal Stewart continued his torrid start, collecting two more hits and raising his average to .700 through three games.

Texas claimed their series finale against Philadelphia 8-3, powered by home runs from Andrew McCutchen and Brandon Nimmo. MacKenzie Gore (1-0) impressed in his Rangers debut, allowing two runs over 5 1/3 innings after joining Texas in an offseason trade.

Baltimore rallied with three runs in the seventh inning to defeat Minnesota 8-6, taking two of three games in their season-opening series. Tyler O’Neill’s three-run blast and clutch hits from Pete Alonso, Adley Rutschman and Coby Mayo fueled the comeback.

Miami completed a stunning sweep of Colorado with rookie Owen Caissie’s walk-off two-run homer in the ninth, giving the Marlins a 4-3 victory. The win improved Miami to 3-0 for the first time since 2009.

Houston split their four-game set with Los Angeles after Isaac Paredes delivered a clutch two-out, two-strike double in the eighth inning to break a 6-6 tie and lead the Astros to a 9-7 triumph.

Pittsburgh avoided a season-opening sweep by edging New York 4-3 in 10 innings, with Ryan O’Hearn driving in the winning run with his second RBI single of the contest.

Tampa Bay exploded for 17 hits in an 11-7 victory over St. Louis, led by Yandy Diaz’s outstanding 5-for-6 performance with four RBIs. The Rays avoided being swept in the three-game series.

Washington took their series against Chicago behind home runs from Joey Wiemer and Keibert Ruiz in a 6-3 win. Wiemer’s hot start continued as he reached base safely in his first eight plate appearances as a National.

Milwaukee completed a three-game sweep of Chicago with a dramatic 9-7 comeback victory, overcoming a 7-2 deficit thanks to Christian Yelich’s three-run pinch-hit homer that capped a six-run eighth-inning rally.

South Korean golfer Hyo Joo Kim captured her second consecutive LPGA Tour victory Sunday, successfully defending her Ford Championship title in Chandler, Arizona, while once again defeating world No. 2 Nelly Korda.

Kim carded a final-round 69, three strokes under par, to finish the tournament at 28-under 260 at Whirlwind Golf Club’s Cattail Course. The 30-year-old golfer displayed remarkable consistency throughout the four-day event, recording scores of 61 and 69 in alternating fashion.

Despite stumbling with a double-bogey six on the eighth hole and dropping another shot at the par-4 16th, Kim recovered with six birdies distributed evenly across both halves of her scorecard.

Speaking through an interpreter after her victory, Kim reflected on the challenge of defending a title. “It’s super hard as a player to become a defending champion,” Kim said. “But I took the great energy from last week and the course and all of that into this place here and I want to carry that on to next week.”

Kim’s performance included setting the LPGA’s 54-hole scoring record on Saturday, though she fell three shots short of matching the tour’s 72-hole record of 257, established by Sei Young Kim in 2017.

Korda, who entered the final round trailing, mounted a strong challenge with two eagles during her 67 on Sunday. The American star found the bottom of the cup twice on par-5 holes, at the second and 17th, before adding a birdie at the 18th hole in a late surge.

However, Kim maintained her composure, making par on the final hole to secure a two-shot victory at 26-under par. This marked the second straight week that Kim edged Korda, having defeated her by a single stroke at the previous week’s Fortinet Founders Cup.

The mutual respect between the competitors was evident in their post-round comments. Kim, who has previously stated that Korda is her favorite player, praised her playing partner’s performance.

“Just loved and felt great playing with Nelly,” Kim said. “She has such a beautiful swing and this whole time it was just wire to wire, just so tight. Just watching her getting that eagle and finishing, the birdie at the end, I think she is just a fantastic player.”

Korda returned the compliment, calling Kim’s recent play “inspiring” while reflecting on her consecutive runner-up finishes.

“There’s times when I’m going to get frustrated. I’m a human being, so I’m going to get down and I’m going to get a little frustrated,” said Korda, who won the season-opening Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions. “But I’m trying to get over that as fast as possible.”

The world No. 2 expressed gratitude for her current form, contrasting it with her struggles from the previous year. “I’m just very grateful. If you’d have told me this time last year the finishes that I would have right now, I would be super happy with the game that is trending. Last year I just felt so weird with my game. Nothing was kind of going my way.”

Korda emphasized the positive aspects of competition and improvement. “I’m really happy. I’ve put in a lot of work, and that’s the best thing about golf is that you can always improve and you can have someone like Hyo Joo that’s going to test you and push your buttons but in a really good way to improve.”

Japan’s Minami Katsu claimed third place at 23-under par after shooting a final-round 65. New Zealand’s Lydia Ko, who opened the tournament with a remarkable 60, finished fourth at 20-under following a Sunday 68.

South Korea’s In Gee Chun rounded out the top five at 19-under par after carding a 68 in the final round.

A top Egyptian soccer official is advising Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah to steer clear of Major League Soccer when his time with the English club concludes this season, arguing such a move would damage his international profile.

Ibrahim Hassan, who serves as Egypt’s national team director, expressed concerns that the 33-year-old forward would lose global recognition if he chooses MLS over European competition. Salah is weighing his options after a remarkable nine-season run at Liverpool that included two Premier League championships and a Champions League victory.

While MLS Commissioner Don Garber has publicly expressed interest in bringing Salah to American soccer, Hassan believes Europe remains the better choice for maintaining the player’s worldwide status.

“Personally, I would prefer him to stay in Europe,” Hassan shared during an interview with On Sports. “I have heard about offers from Paris Saint‑Germain, Bayern Munich and clubs in the Italian league.”

Hassan drew a pointed comparison to Lionel Messi’s recent career path to emphasize his concerns about MLS visibility.

“A move to the Major League? He would be far too out of the spotlight. You won’t remember Salah any more than I remember (Lionel) Messi now, I don’t even try to watch him,” Hassan explained.

The Argentina captain Messi transitioned to Inter Miami in 2023 following championship runs with Barcelona and Paris Saint‑Germain, shortly after capturing the World Cup. Despite becoming Miami’s leading scorer in franchise history, Hassan suggests the move has reduced Messi’s global presence.

Should European opportunities fail to materialize, Hassan indicated that Saudi Arabia’s professional league would serve as a viable alternative for Salah.

“If he does not receive offers from Europe, then a move to the Saudi league would be a good option, especially with big names such as Cristiano (Ronaldo),” noted Hassan, whose twin brother Hossam Hassan coaches Egypt’s national squad.

Currently dealing with an injury, Salah will be absent from Egypt’s preparation sessions as the team gears up for World Cup competition in North America. The squad recently defeated Saudi Arabia 4-0 in Jeddah and has a scheduled friendly against Spain in Barcelona this Tuesday.

Egypt, which has claimed seven African championships, will compete in World Cup Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand and Iran when the tournament kicks off June 11 through July 19.

Professional golfer Gary Woodland achieved much more than just another tournament victory on Sunday – he triumphed over personal struggles that have defined his recent years.

The veteran player carded a final-round 67, three strokes under par, to claim the Texas Children’s Houston Open title at Memorial Park Golf Course. This marks Woodland’s first PGA Tour championship in almost seven years, a drought that included brain surgery in 2023 to remove a tumor.

Woodland has publicly discussed his ongoing battle with post-traumatic stress disorder, making Sunday’s victory particularly meaningful and emotional.

“We play an individual sport out here, but I wasn’t alone today,” Woodland said. “I got a lot of people behind me, my team, my family and this golf world. Anybody that’s struggling with something, I hope they see me and don’t give up, just keep fighting.”

The champion completed four rounds at 21-under-par 259, securing a commanding five-shot victory over Denmark’s Nicolai Hojgaard, who finished with a final-round 71. Woodland had tied for runner-up at the same venue the previous year.

This represents Woodland’s fifth career PGA Tour championship, but his first since capturing the 2019 U.S. Open title.

“I’ve got a big fight ahead of me and I’m going to keep going, but I’m proud of myself right now,” Woodland said.

Fellow professionals have expressed admiration for Woodland’s courage in sharing his personal struggles publicly.

“Just really look up to him as a mate who put it out there just a couple weeks ago on television, what he’s dealing with,” Australia’s Adam Scott said. “It is inspirational.”

Woodland established control early, posting four birdies on the front nine, including back-to-back birdies on holes seven through nine, creating a six-shot cushion. His lead expanded to seven strokes when Hojgaard stumbled with a bogey on the 10th hole.

“Nice to stay in the fight on the back nine and thought if I made the eagle on 16, something interesting could happen the last two,” Hojgaard said. “And then when I didn’t make the eagle, I felt like I couldn’t reach him.”

Johnny Keefer fired a impressive 64 in the final round to secure a share of third place at 15-under alongside defending champion Min Woo Lee of Australia, who shot 67. Sam Stevens claimed fifth position at 14-under with a 67. The third-place showing represents rookie Keefer’s first top-10 result on tour at age 25.

Jake Knapp delivered the round of the day with a flawless 62, matching the course record while playing well ahead of the final groups. His spectacular 43-foot eagle putt on the par-5 16th hole highlighted an outstanding performance.

“I still didn’t drive it necessarily amazing, but was able to control distances and hit it pretty well into the greens to give myself a bunch of looks,” Knapp said.

Knapp joined Chris Gotterup (65), Australia’s Jason Day (68), and Canada’s Sudarshan Yellamaraju (67) in a four-way tie for sixth place at 13-under-par.

Michael Thorbjornsen experienced disappointment after entering the final round with hopes of cracking the world’s top 50 to earn Masters Tournament qualification. Currently ranked 56th globally, Thorbjornsen needed a top-five finish but struggled with a double-bogey on the eighth hole and three bogeys over four holes on the back nine, settling for 72 and a tie for 14th at 10-under.

Scott provided one of the tournament’s memorable moments with a hole-in-one on the 11th hole using an 8-iron. The ace marked his third on the PGA Tour but first in 14 years.

“It was actually hard to see the flag mixed in with the people and the crowd, but we heard it go in,” said Scott, who finished the tournament at 8-under with a final-round 71.

St. John’s University announced Sunday that head basketball coach Rick Pitino has received a contract extension and salary boost following the team’s impressive recent performance. The university confirmed the veteran coach’s deal has been extended through the 2029-30 season.

According to ESPN’s reporting, Pitino’s original six-year agreement from 2023 now includes an extra year along with increased compensation that positions him as the Big East’s second-highest paid coach, trailing only Dan Hurley at UConn.

The 73-year-old coach has compiled an 81-25 record during his tenure with the Red Storm, leading the program to two NCAA Tournament berths. This includes their current March Madness run that ended Friday with a narrow 80-75 loss to Duke in the Sweet 16. The appearance marked just their second time reaching the tournament’s regional semifinals since 1999.

Athletic director Ed Kull expressed enthusiasm about securing Pitino’s future with the program. “We’re thrilled that Coach Pitino has signed a new agreement to remain at St. John’s, a deal that will keep him in Queens through the end of the decade,” Kull stated. “This extension reflects our strong confidence in his leadership, vision and commitment to our student-athletes.”

Kull continued his praise, adding: “Coach Pitino has changed the culture of our community, and we want his presence to be felt on this campus for years to come. We look forward to more Big East championships and NCAA tournament runs with Coach Pitino at the helm.”

Under Pitino’s guidance, St. John’s completed the season with a 30-7 record and earned rankings as high as fifth nationally. The Red Storm achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Big East school to capture both regular-season and conference tournament championships in back-to-back years. Their NCAA Tournament victories came against Northern Iowa and Kansas before falling to Duke.

When asked about his future plans during Thursday’s pre-game media session, Pitino expressed his desire to continue coaching. “I’d like to stay in as long as I can,” he said. “As long as God willing is giving me good health, I’d like to stay in it as long as I can.”

Pitino brings extensive experience to St. John’s, with a career coaching record of 915-318 (.742 winning percentage). His coaching journey has included positions at Hawaii (1975-76), Boston University (1978-83), Providence (1985-87), Kentucky (1989-97), Louisville (2001-17), Iona (2020-22), and now St. John’s.

Throughout his career, Pitino has secured 12 regular-season conference championships and 16 conference tournament titles. His most notable achievements include leading Kentucky to the 1996 NCAA championship and Louisville to the 2013 national title.

Pitino also spent time in professional basketball, coaching the New York Knicks (1987-89) and Boston Celtics (1997-2001), where he posted a combined 192-220 record (.466 winning percentage).

March Madness delivered another unforgettable moment as the University of Connecticut punched their ticket to the Final Four with a heart-stopping victory over Duke in the Elite Eight round.

The Huskies’ dramatic win came courtesy of guard Braylon Mullins, who nailed a three-point shot from the logo with just 0.4 seconds remaining on the clock Sunday evening in Washington. The Indianapolis-area native’s clutch performance sent UConn to college basketball’s biggest stage.

Connecticut now joins Illinois, Arizona, and Michigan in the Final Four, setting up what promises to be an exciting conclusion to the 2026 NCAA tournament. The Huskies’ stunning upset of the highly-favored Blue Devils caps off another thrilling weekend of March Madness basketball.

Italian tennis sensation Jannik Sinner claimed the Miami Open championship on Sunday, defeating Czech opponent Jiri Lehecka 6-4, 6-4 in a weather-disrupted final that made tennis history.

The world’s second-ranked player achieved something no man had accomplished before – completing the prestigious ‘Sunshine Double’ while remaining undefeated in sets throughout both tournaments. His dominant serving performance saw him win 92% of first-serve points while successfully defending against all three break point attempts.

“We did a lot of work to be in this position, so I’m really, really happy, and I’m also happy to go back home now,” Sinner expressed following his championship victory.

“Making here the Sunshine Double here for the first time, it’s incredible. It’s something I would have never thought, because it’s also difficult to achieve, and yeah, we made it somehow, so I’m very happy.”

Weather proved challenging throughout the day, with approximately 90 minutes of rain delays before the match began. Sinner stayed relaxed during the interruption by juggling a soccer ball with his coaching staff.

The Italian established early control by securing a break for a 3-1 advantage, then relied on strong serving to claim the opening set without losing a point in his final service game.

More precipitation arrived during the second set’s first game, sending both players to the locker room for another 90-minute delay. Once again, Sinner maintained his composure by playing with a soccer ball alongside his team members.

Lehecka, ranked 22nd globally and competing in his inaugural Masters 1000 championship match, showed resilience by surviving five break opportunities across two service games in the second set. He even took a 4-3 lead with a love hold before Sinner seized control.

The Italian converted his sixth break chance of the set to move ahead 5-4, then sealed the title with a forehand volley to an open court on his first championship opportunity.

This accomplishment makes Sinner the first male player since Roger Federer in 2017 to capture both Indian Wells and Miami titles consecutively – an achievement dubbed the ‘Sunshine Double’ due to the tournaments’ California and Florida locations.

Sinner now joins an exclusive group of champions that includes Federer, Novak Djokovic, Andre Agassi, Marcelo Rios, Pete Sampras, Michael Chang, and Jim Courier. His victory also extended his remarkable Masters 1000 streak to 17 consecutive matches without dropping a set.

In a stunning upset that will be remembered for years, Braylon Mullins nailed a clutch three-pointer with just 0.4 seconds remaining to propel UConn past top-seeded Duke 73-72, securing the Huskies a place in the Final Four after overcoming a massive 19-point first-half deficit.

Duke appeared to have control of the game, holding a three-point advantage before UConn’s Silas Demary Jr. converted one of two free throws with 10 seconds on the clock. As the Blue Devils attempted to run out the clock and avoid fouling situations, Cayden Boozer’s pass near center court was knocked away. UConn recovered the loose ball, setting up Demary’s long-range shot from well beyond the arc. This marks consecutive seasons ending in devastating fashion for Duke, who entered as the tournament’s overall top seed.

The championship semifinals are now confirmed with UConn’s dramatic victory over Duke completing the Final Four bracket alongside Illinois, Arizona and Michigan. Illinois will meet UConn while Michigan squares off against Arizona this Saturday, with victors advancing to Monday’s championship game. The Arizona-Michigan contest features two top seeds, while UConn enters as a second seed facing third-seeded Illinois. According to BetMGM Sportsbook, Arizona leads as the early championship favorite followed by Michigan. The game-winning shot came from Mullins, who was raised near Indianapolis where the title game will be played.

Gary Woodland captured his first PGA Tour victory since undergoing brain surgery, claiming the Houston Open title just 30 months after his medical procedure. Woodland dominated the field, building leads as large as seven strokes and closing with a 67 to win by four shots. The golfer underwent surgery in September 2023 to remove a brain lesion that had caused irrational fears about dying. Two weeks prior to his Houston triumph, Woodland publicly shared his battle with post-traumatic stress disorder during an emotional Golf Channel interview. The victory earns him entry into the Masters tournament.

The Vegas Golden Knights dismissed head coach Bruce Cassidy on Sunday, immediately naming John Tortorella as his replacement. General Manager Kelly McCrimmon made the announcement following the team’s struggles, having dropped three consecutive games and six of their last seven contests. Tortorella brings 24 seasons of NHL head coaching experience to Vegas, though he was not coaching this season and served as a U.S. assistant coach at the Milan Cortina Olympics where the team captured gold. He previously guided Tampa Bay to the Stanley Cup championship in 2004. Cassidy had led the Golden Knights to their 2023 Stanley Cup title but was terminated less than three years into his tenure.

Yaxel Lendeborg powered Michigan’s dominant 95-62 victory over Tennessee with 27 points, propelling the Wolverines into the Final Four alongside Elliot Cadeau’s 10 assists in the NCAA Tournament rout. Morez Johnson Jr. contributed 12 points as top-seeded Michigan recorded their 11th win this season by 30 or more points. Aday Mara added 11 points and two blocked shots in the Midwest Region championship game. Utilizing their size and athletic advantages on both ends of the floor, Michigan earned their first Final Four berth since 2018 and ninth in program history. The Wolverines will face Arizona in Saturday’s national semifinal.

Defending champion UConn and coach Geno Auriemma advanced to their 25th women’s Final Four with a 70-52 victory over Notre Dame in the Fort Worth Regional final. All-America forward Sarah Strong led the undefeated Huskies with 21 points while Blanca Quiñonez contributed 20 in the win. UConn improved to 38-0 and extended their winning streak to 54 games as they pursue their 13th national championship. Fellow first-team AP All-America selection Azzi Fudd scored 13 points for the Huskies. Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo recorded 22 points and 11 rebounds in the Fighting Irish’s season-ending loss.

Lauren Betts dominated with 23 points, 10 rebounds and five blocks as UCLA overcame a halftime deficit to defeat Duke 70-58, earning the Bruins their second consecutive women’s Final Four appearance. Top-seeded UCLA will face either Texas or Michigan in Phoenix on Friday’s national semifinal round. The Bruins now sit just two victories away from capturing the program’s first NCAA championship. Third-seeded Duke challenged UCLA more than most opponents this season, with Taina Mair leading the Blue Devils with 21 points in their second straight regional final defeat.

Chase Elliott outmaneuvered Denny Hamlin at Martinsville Speedway to capture his first NASCAR Cup Series victory of the season. Elliott benefited from a strategic decision by crew chief Alan Gustafson to pit the No. 9 Chevrolet ahead of other contenders on Sunday. When a caution flag waved on lap 312, Elliott held the lead and joined other lead-lap drivers in pitting, except for Ross Chastain. Elliott passed Chastain following the restart and controlled the final 69 laps, winning by 0.565 seconds over Hamlin’s No. 11 Toyota. Joey Logano claimed third place, with Ty Gibbs and William Byron rounding out the top five.

Irish rugby player Neff Giwa has committed to South Carolina’s football program despite never playing American football. The 6-foot-7½, 295-pound athlete from Tipperary chose the Gamecocks over scholarship offers from Miami, North Carolina, SMU, Tennessee and Texas to play offensive line. The 20-year-old, who also holds Nigerian citizenship, only became interested in football several months ago and connected with American recruiter Brandon Collier in Germany. Collier arranged a recent tour of U.S. colleges for Giwa, whose workout video attracted attention from multiple universities.

Chicago White Sox rookie Munetaka Murakami and Cleveland Guardians’ Chase DeLauter have joined an exclusive group by homering in each of their first three major league games, an achievement accomplished by only two previous players. According to Sportradar, Trevor Story of the Colorado Rockies in 2016 and Kyle Lewis of the Seattle Mariners in 2019 were the only other players to homer in at least their first three MLB contests. Story holds the major league record with home runs in his first four career games.

LAS VEGAS — The Vegas Golden Knights dismissed head coach Bruce Cassidy on Sunday, making a surprising late-season coaching switch by bringing in John Tortorella to take his place.

The decision was revealed by General Manager Kelly McCrimmon following the team’s recent struggles, having dropped three consecutive games and losing six of their last seven contests. Despite this rough patch, Vegas remains in third place within the Pacific Division and appears headed for playoff contention.

Tortorella arrives for what will be his 24th season as an NHL head coach. The veteran coach sat out this season but served as an assistant with the U.S. Olympic team that captured gold at the Milan Cortina Olympics. His coaching resume includes leading Tampa Bay to a Stanley Cup victory in 2004.

The dismissal comes less than three years after Cassidy guided the Golden Knights to their first Stanley Cup championship in 2023.

“Under Bruce’s leadership, we reached our ultimate goal in 2023 by bringing a Stanley Cup to Vegas,” McCrimmon stated. “Bruce will forever be remembered with the utmost regard by our organization for what was accomplished here. With the stretch run of the 2025-26 regular season upon us, we believe that a change is necessary for us to return to the level of play that is expected of our club.”

“With John Tortorella, we bring in a Stanley Cup Champion as well as one of the most experienced and respected coaches in the NHL. His guidance will be a great asset to our team at the pivotal point in the season we currently face,” McCrimmon added.

The coaching change comes as little shock considering Vegas’s performance following the Olympic break, posting a 5-10-2 record while being outscored 3.2 to 2.4 goals per game on average. This marks the first time the franchise will conclude a season with more losses than wins.

However, the timing caught some off guard, with only eight games left in the regular season and the Golden Knights maintaining a four-point cushion over Los Angeles for the Pacific Division’s third playoff position.

The organization has never been known for patience, consistently pursuing elite NHL talent through trades and free agency while demanding excellence from its coaching staff. Although Cassidy holds the record as the franchise’s longest-serving coach with a 178-99-43 record across four seasons, Vegas now moves forward with its fourth different coach as the organization completes its ninth campaign.

High expectations surrounded this squad entering the season after acquiring forward Mitch Marner through a sign-and-trade arrangement with Toronto. The team also controversially signed goaltender Carter Hart and acquired defenseman Rasmus Andersson via trade, among other significant roster moves.

Prior to the Olympic break, Vegas sat atop the division standings. However, their play since returning has fallen short of championship caliber, and the tactical adjustments that brought Cassidy success during the 2023 Cup run failed to produce similar results this time around. The Golden Knights have surrendered valuable points, suffering 16 losses in overtime or shootout situations.

Whether Cassidy’s dismissal represents desperation, necessity, or something in between, attention now turns to Tortorella’s capacity to maximize what management views as a championship-capable roster. With five players having competed in the Olympic gold medal game, that belief may have merit.

Since 2000, five teams have captured the Stanley Cup after making mid-season coaching changes, most recently St. Louis in 2019 when they replaced Mike Yeo with Craig Berube and defeated Cassidy’s Boston Bruins. Golden Knights forward Ivan Barbashev was part of that Blues championship team, playing alongside current Vegas teammate Alex Pietrangelo.

Tortorella is expected to bring a different atmosphere to the Golden Knights. While Cassidy challenged his players and enjoyed discussing hockey’s strategic aspects, Tortorella enters the veteran locker room with a reputation as an intense coach who embraces confrontation, typically achieving early success before eventually wearing out his welcome.

His coaching career spans 770-648-37 across five different organizations. Beyond his Stanley Cup triumph with Tampa Bay, he also coached Columbus when the Blue Jackets shocked the Presidents’ Trophy-winning Lightning with a first-round sweep in the 2019 playoffs.

The coach nicknamed “Torts” has limited time to work his magic in Vegas, starting with Monday night’s home matchup against Vancouver.

PHILADELPHIA — Andrew McCutchen channeled his inner Michael Jordan with a shoulder shrug and playfully apologized to a Phillies supporter after crossing home plate following his debut home run as a Texas Ranger.

Brandon Nimmo also connected for his inaugural long ball with Texas — a blast that only intensified the hostile reception from Philadelphia fans who relentlessly jeered the former New York Mets standout throughout the entire three-game series.

MacKenzie Gore continued his dominance over Philadelphia from his previous appearance. During his debut with Washington last season, he recorded 13 strikeouts against the Phillies. Gore maintained that excellence in his Rangers debut, carrying a no-hit bid into the sixth inning before working out of a bases-loaded situation by striking out two-time National League MVP Bryce Harper in Sunday’s 8-3 victory.

Inaugural home runs and Gore’s stellar first outing helped Texas capture two games out of three against the defending NL East champions.

For Rangers supporters tracking milestones, here’s another notable first — the inaugural series victory under new Texas skipper Skip Schumaker.

“It’s just confirmation of what we think our offense is,” Schumaker said.

Nimmo ignited the Texas attack by taking Philadelphia starter Jesús Luzardo (0-1) deep for a two-run blast in the second inning.

Nimmo has launched 11 home runs at Citizens Bank Park, more than any other road venue. He owns 16 career homers against Philadelphia, and their supporters haven’t forgotten his crucial go-ahead hit in Game 1 of the 2024 National League Division Series that propelled the Mets to victory and eventual series triumph.

Philadelphia fans unleashed a chorus of boos when Nimmo was announced on opening day, maintaining their hostility throughout all three contests.

“I hear the boos when I go up there,” Nimmo said with a smile. “It’s part of baseball. Part of baseball in the Northeast. It’s good to know they still remember me. Even though they don’t like me, I appreciate their passion for their team and the game. It’s been a great atmosphere to play here.”

Philadelphia supporters couldn’t generate the same level of animosity toward McCutchen, widely regarded as one of baseball’s most respected players who joined the Rangers during spring training after a potential Pittsburgh reunion fell through.

McCutchen, who played one season in Philadelphia and maintains a friendship with the heckling fan, delivered a three-run homer in the fourth inning for a 5-0 advantage. McCutchen also contributed an RBI single in the 10th inning during Saturday’s 5-3 Rangers victory.

McCutchen revealed he spent time with his Philadelphia sports fan friend who pleaded with him, “Stop hurting us.”

“I was like, no, dude, I can’t do that, I’m sorry,” McCutchen said with a laugh. “When I hit the homer, he was looking right at me. I was like, dude, I’m not sorry. It’s a good exchange between me and him, but he’s one of my guys.”

Gore is anticipated to be a cornerstone of Texas’ rotation following his acquisition for five prospects.

He provides the 2023 World Series champions with a starter capable of strengthening their rotation alongside Jacob deGrom — a two-time NL Cy Young Award winner who earned American League Comeback Player of the Year honors in 2025 — and Nathan Eovaldi, who battled a rotator cuff strain and underwent sports hernia surgery after posting a 1.73 ERA across 22 starts last season.

Gore recorded seven strikeouts and completed five hitless frames before his bid for Texas’ first no-hitter since Kenny Rogers’ perfect game in 1994 ended with a leadoff infield single by Justin Crawford in the sixth.

The southpaw struck out Harper with runners on all three bases in the sixth and departed after hitting Alec Bohm with a pitch to make the score 6-1.

“That’s a situation where we got ahead and we kind of wanted to put him away,” Gore said.

The 27-year-old Gore carries a 26-41 record with a 4.19 ERA across four major league campaigns, spending the last three with Washington. He earned NL All-Star recognition last season but struggled in the second half, finishing 5-15 with a 4.17 ERA and a career-high 185 strikeouts in 30 appearances, all starts.

Gore has compiled a 3.06 ERA (16 earned runs across 47 innings) with 57 strikeouts over his last eight starts against Philadelphia since early 2024.

“I don’t necessarily know if anybody is a great matchup against that lineup,” he said. “I think I just really understand what they’re capable of doing. I know I kind of have to be at my best to have success against them.”

Harper drew boos following his strikeout and managed just a .091 average with one RBI, one run and two walks during the opening series.

“Not the start we wanted to have (this) weekend,” Harper said, “but we’ll get there.”

Nobody in the home dugout wants to hear jeers just three games into the season. But those sounds represented a successful series for the Rangers.

“It’s totally OK they don’t like me,” Nimmo said.

The Vegas Golden Knights made a shocking coaching change Sunday, dismissing Bruce Cassidy and immediately naming John Tortorella as his replacement with just eight regular season games remaining.

The decision comes as the franchise struggles through what could be its worst season performance-wise, despite still having a chance to secure a playoff spot. Vegas currently holds a .541 points percentage, the lowest in the team’s nine-year NHL history.

Cassidy, 60, led the Golden Knights to their first Stanley Cup championship in 2023 during his inaugural season after spending six years with the Boston Bruins. However, the team has stumbled recently, dropping six of their past seven contests with a 1-4-2 record and sitting third in the Pacific Division standings.

Vegas General Manager Kelly McCrimmon acknowledged Cassidy’s contributions in an official statement: “We thank Bruce Cassidy for his dedication to our hockey club and community over the past four seasons. Under Bruce’s leadership, we reached our ultimate goal in 2023 by bringing a Stanley Cup to Vegas. Bruce will forever be remembered with the utmost regard by our organization for what was accomplished here.”

McCrimmon explained the timing of the change: “With the stretch run of the 2025-26 regular season upon us, we believe that a change is necessary for us to return to the level of play that is expected of our club. With John Tortorella, we bring in a Stanley Cup Champion as well as one of the most experienced and respected coaches in the NHL. His guidance will be a great asset to our team at the pivotal point in the season we currently face. We look forward to welcoming John to Vegas.”

Tortorella, 67, becomes available after Philadelphia released him during his third campaign with the Flyers in the 2024-25 season. He spent this year away from coaching duties.

The veteran coach previously guided Tampa Bay to the 2004 Stanley Cup title and has managed the New York Rangers, Vancouver Canucks, and Columbus Blue Jackets during his career. His last playoff appearance came in 2020 while leading Columbus.

Tortorella brings extensive experience with a career record of 770-648-37-165 across 1,620 games spanning parts of 23 seasons. Cassidy concludes his tenure with a 470-254-9-96 mark over 829 games, including stops with Washington (2002-04), Boston (2016-22), and Vegas (2022-26).

The new coach could make his Golden Knights debut Monday evening when Vegas welcomes Vancouver to town.

Marco Bezzecchi maintained his flawless racing streak Sunday, claiming victory at the United States Grand Prix held at Austin’s Circuit of the Americas. The Aprilia rider dominated the 20-lap race from start to finish, marking his third straight triumph this season and extending his winning streak to five races dating back to the previous year.

The Italian motorcycle racer controlled the entire race, finishing with a commanding 2.036-second advantage over his Aprilia teammate Jorge Martin. Pedro Acosta managed to secure third place on the podium despite starting from eighth position due to a penalty received during Saturday’s sprint competition.

Sunday’s victory propelled Bezzecchi to the top of the championship standings with 81 points, establishing a four-point lead over Martin, who had claimed Saturday’s sprint race victory.

VR46 Racing’s Fabio Di Giannantonio, who started from pole position, ended the race in fourth place. Meanwhile, Francesco Bagnaia of the Ducati Lenovo Team, who won last year’s Austin race, could only manage a disappointing 10th-place finish.

LANDOVER, Maryland – France demonstrated impressive offensive strength and roster versatility in defeating Colombia 3-1 during a friendly match on Sunday, marking their last game before coach Didier Deschamps announces his World Cup team selection.

Desire Doue netted two goals as France dominated the match, with the team using a completely different starting eleven than the squad that defeated Brazil 2-1 just days earlier on Thursday. Despite the roster changes, Les Bleus controlled the game, with Doue’s pair of goals and an additional score from Marcus Thuram securing a convincing win.

Colombia managed to score once through Jaminton Campaz, but the team struggled to keep pace after showing promise early in the match.

France has faced criticism in the past for prioritizing tactical discipline over creative play, but across their two recent preparation matches, they successfully blended entertaining football with tactical effectiveness as they approach the June 11-July 19 World Cup – Deschamps’ final tournament as head coach.

“What we’ve produced over these two games is really interesting. We can’t wait to be in June,” said Rayan Cherki, who appeared well-suited to France’s 4-2-3-1 tactical setup.

Deschamps shared an optimistic view of his team’s performance.

“A very positive sporting assessment against two very strong South American teams,” he said. “We gave a lot of players opportunities… the quality is there.”

Following an energetic opening period, France broke through via Doue, who sent a low shot into the corner of the net in the 29th minute for his debut international goal.

Thuram extended France’s lead five minutes before halftime, directing a powerful header off the crossbar after connecting with a perfectly curved cross delivered by Maghnes Akliouche.

The outcome was essentially decided before the 60-minute mark.

France launched a swift counterattack from midfield, initiated by Akliouche before Cherki set up Thuram on the right flank. Thuram then passed across the goal area for Doue to finish with precision.

Moments before Kylian Mbappe entered as a late substitution, Campaz narrowed Colombia’s deficit with an accurate angled strike.

Both Mbappe and fellow substitute Hugo Ekitike nearly added a fourth goal during an exciting final period.

France will continue their World Cup preparation with a match against Ivory Coast in Nantes on June 4, followed by another contest against a yet-to-be-announced opponent on June 8.

Deschamps plans to reveal his World Cup roster on May 14.

Two rookie players have etched their names into baseball history this past week by achieving a feat accomplished by only two others before them.

Chicago White Sox player Munetaka Murakami and Cleveland Guardians outfielder Chase DeLauter have both launched home runs in each of their initial three major league contests. Sports data company Sportradar reports that just Trevor Story of the Colorado Rockies in 2016 and Kyle Lewis of the Seattle Mariners in 2019 had previously managed this accomplishment.

Story holds the major league record for consecutive games with home runs to start a career, going deep in his first four contests. DeLauter will have the opportunity to tie that mark when Cleveland faces Seattle on Sunday evening.

The 26-year-old Murakami secured his spot in this exclusive group on Sunday by driving a 3-2 offering from Milwaukee’s Brandon Sproat beyond the right-center field wall and into the White Sox bullpen during the second inning. The Japanese power hitter had previously connected off Jake Woodford in the ninth inning of his Thursday debut and launched another against Chad Patrick in Saturday’s fourth inning.

This marks Murakami’s inaugural major league series following his December signing of a two-year, $34 million deal with Chicago. During his eight seasons with Japan’s Central League Yakult Swallows, Murakami blasted 246 home runs, including an impressive 56-homer campaign in 2022.

The 24-year-old DeLauter has collected four home runs across his first three major league appearances.

The outfielder connected twice during his Thursday debut, becoming just the fifth player in the Guardians’ 126-year franchise history to homer in his inaugural regular-season plate appearance. He followed with a solo blast off Seattle’s George Kirby on Friday, then delivered a two-run shot against Andrés Muñoz during Saturday’s 10th inning.

Texas Rangers star pitcher Jacob deGrom is planning to take the mound for his first appearance of the season either Tuesday or Wednesday, following a brief setback from neck stiffness that caused him to miss his planned Saturday outing.

The veteran right-hander was unable to start Saturday’s game due to physical limitations, prompting the Rangers to substitute left-handed pitcher Jacob Latz against Philadelphia. Despite the last-minute change, Texas managed to secure a 5-4 win in extra innings.

DeGrom participated in throwing exercises Sunday, working at distances up to 120 feet as part of his recovery process. The Rangers begin a three-game road series against Baltimore on Monday, with manager Skip Schumaker indicating deGrom will likely start during the series’ final games.

“We’ll see how it goes (Monday),” deGrom said to media members. “It’s definitely a big improvement from yesterday.”

The 37-year-old veteran is coming off a remarkable comeback season in which he made 30 starts for the first time since 2019, earning American League Comeback Player of the Year honors for his performance.

Following Tommy John surgery that kept him sidelined for most of 2023 and 2024, the former Cy Young Award winner returned to action with three limited appearances for Texas in September 2024. Last season, he compiled a 12-8 record with a 2.97 earned run average while receiving his fifth All-Star Game selection.

The Wildcats of Arizona have secured their spot in the Final Four for the first time since 1999, defeating Purdue 79-64 in the West Region championship game in San Jose, California. Freshman standout Koa Peat led the top-seeded Wildcats with 20 points as head coach Tommy Lloyd finally broke through after previous March disappointments. Arizona demonstrated their versatility throughout the tournament, using an explosive offensive display to eliminate Arkansas in the Sweet 16 before stifling Purdue’s high-powered attack in the regional final.

In Houston, Illinois punched their ticket to the Final Four for the first time since 2005, overwhelming Iowa 71-59 in the South Region final. First-year player Keaton Wagler poured in 25 points and earned regional MVP honors as the Fighting Illini dominated the paint against the undersized Hawkeyes. Illinois controlled the boards 38-21, with David Mirkovic pulling down 12 rebounds. This marks the sixth Final Four appearance for Illinois, a program still seeking its first national championship. The Fighting Illini will meet either Duke or UConn next weekend in Indianapolis. Iowa’s surprising tournament run came to an end despite 24 points from Bennett Stirtz, as first-year head coach Ben McCollum’s squad couldn’t overcome Illinois’ size advantage.

In Formula 1 action from Suzuka, Japan, teenage sensation Kimi Antonelli of Mercedes claimed his second consecutive Grand Prix victory, winning the Japanese GP on a beautiful spring afternoon. The 19-year-old Italian driver finished ahead of McLaren’s Oscar Piastri, with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc rounding out the podium in third place. George Russell of Mercedes placed fourth, followed by McLaren’s Lando Norris in fifth and Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton in sixth. Antonelli, who captured his maiden F1 victory just two weeks earlier in China, has become the second-youngest race winner in the sport’s history, trailing only Max Verstappen who won at age 18 in 2016.

Speaking of Verstappen, the four-time world champion continues to express uncertainty about his racing future following an disappointing eighth-place finish at Suzuka. The 28-year-old Red Bull driver openly voiced his frustration with this season’s significant regulation changes and confirmed he hasn’t ruled out retirement when the current campaign concludes. When pressed by BBC reporters about whether this could be his final season, Verstappen responded, “That’s what I’m saying,” indicating he’s working “very hard” to find enjoyment in racing under the new rules.

NFL executives, owners, and coaching staffs are gathering in Arizona this week for their annual spring meetings, where several key issues will be addressed. The agenda includes discussions about replacement officials, potential rule modifications, artificial intelligence applications, player health and safety protocols, international expansion efforts, and the integration of flag football. Notably absent from this year’s talks is the controversial “tush push” play, which survived a close vote to ban it in 2025 and faces no new elimination proposals. NFC coaches will address the media Monday, AFC coaches Tuesday, with Commissioner Roger Goodell providing closing remarks.

Atlanta Braves designated hitter Dominic Smith made baseball history Saturday night, becoming the first player ever to hit a walk-off grand slam in his debut with a new organization. Smith’s dramatic blast capped a six-run ninth-inning rally that lifted the Braves to a 6-2 victory over the Kansas City Royals. The achievement carries extra emotional weight, as Smith lost his mother less than two weeks ago. Smith credited his new teammates with providing crucial support during spring training and throughout his recent personal tragedy, saying the organization lifted him up when he needed it most.

Two-time Olympic champion Caster Semenya voiced strong criticism of IOC President Kirsty Coventry following the International Olympic Committee’s recent decision to prohibit transgender women from competing in female categories at Olympic events. Speaking at a press conference in Cape Town after participating in a women’s race celebrating female empowerment and community solidarity, Semenya expressed particular disappointment given Coventry’s status as both a woman leader and fellow African from Zimbabwe. Her remarks came three days after the IOC announced the ban, which extends to all IOC-sanctioned competitions.

UConn women’s basketball coach Geno Auriemma launched a scathing attack on the NCAA’s double-regional format currently being used in the women’s March Madness tournament. The 12-time national champion coach argued the format hurts both competing teams and efforts to expand the sport’s popularity. Before fielding questions from reporters in Fort Worth, Texas, Auriemma criticized poor attendance figures, declining shooting percentages, and the burden placed on teams who must arrive early and stay late on the same day. The controversial format, now in its fourth year, is scheduled to continue for at least five more seasons.

Golf superstar Tiger Woods faces mounting legal troubles following his Friday arrest in Florida on suspicion of driving under the influence after a vehicle accident. Law enforcement officials determined Woods was impaired by medication, and he was taken into custody after declining to provide a urine sample. The timing proves particularly problematic for Woods, who plays a central role in restructuring the PGA Tour and was close to announcing his decision about serving as Ryder Cup captain. Additionally, Woods is scheduled to appear alongside Masters chairman Fred Ridley on April 5 for the unveiling of a new golf course development project.

National Football League team owners, executives and coaching staff will convene in Arizona this week for their yearly conference, where they’ll address numerous significant matters including backup referee plans, rule modifications, technology advances, player safety concerns, global expansion efforts and flag football initiatives.

Notably absent from this year’s agenda is the controversial “tush push” play that sparked heated debate twelve months ago, as no formal proposal exists to ban the strategy despite it nearly being eliminated in a narrow 2025 vote.

The meeting schedule includes NFC coaching staff addressing media on Monday, followed by AFC coaches on Tuesday, with Commissioner Roger Goodell providing closing remarks.

The most substantial proposal from the NFL competition committee involves backup plans should the league need substitute officials during a potential work dispute, similar to what occurred at the beginning of the 2012 campaign. The existing labor contract between the NFL and NFL Referees Association concludes on May 31.

Under this proposal, the replay headquarters in New York would gain authority to guide field officials regarding overlooked roughing the passer violations, intentional grounding infractions, and any actions warranting ejection if penalties had been assessed.

The NFL’s deployment of substitute officials during 2012’s opening three weeks led to numerous errors and incorrect decisions, most notably the controversial touchdown reception dubbed the “Fail Mary.”

“The negotiations with the officials have not gone as quickly as we would have wanted,” stated NFL executive Jeff Miller. “We’ve made a number of proposals. We’re looking to improve the accountability and performance of the officials, and we just haven’t gotten to where we need to go. So, we’re going to play football this fall, and we’re going to need officials to do it. So, this is part of the preparation, and we felt compelled to make these sorts of decisions in anticipation of playing football in a different environment.”

Multiple minor adjustments are being considered for the dynamic kickoff regulation now entering its third year of implementation.

“In 2024, we had 920 returns, and we had 25,000 return yards. In 2025, we had 2,076 returns, and we had 53,869 yards,” explained Rich McKay, Atlanta Falcons CEO and Competition Committee Chair. “So that’s just a crazy change in the game, one that we’ve worked on for a long time. It’s a credit to the special teams coaches who’ve gotten together and really helped influence where we are on that play. It’s a credit to our head coaches for being able to be flexible enough to adopt and adapt, I should say, to the play. So, it’s a really good story.”

“But we won’t just leave it alone. This year, we’re going to propose that we allow the 5-4-2 alignment. … That really was the original alignment the special teams coaches wanted, but we were just taking our time and kind of being a little conservative, if you will, in how we allowed the alignment change. So, that’s kind of our process and how we got to where we are,” McKay continued.

The organization has welcomed technological innovations and artificial intelligence developments, incorporating microchips into footballs and utilizing virtual measurement systems for first-down determinations.

“The ability to use any modern technologies in media to advance the game on the field or with our fans, especially internationally, is coming at a really important time for the league’s growth,” Miller noted.

The NFL plans nine international contests this season, featuring inaugural regular-season games in France and Australia. League officials aim to eventually conduct 16 overseas games annually.

“It’s an incredibly important area of our business and growth and takes up a good amount of time during these meetings,” Miller commented.

Kickoff-related concussions increased to 35 in 2025 from eight in 2024, primarily due to moving the touchback position to the 35-yard line, which generated 1,157 additional returns. The return percentage surged to 74% from 33% the previous season, marking the highest return rate in fifteen years. However, the overall injury rate remains lower than previous kickoff formats, when coverage teams had running starts versus the current standing start requirement.

“The goal was to have a fewer, lower injury rate on that play, and to make it seem more like a play from scrimmage, which has been accomplished by and large,” Miller stated. “But we always knew that we were going to revisit this play as soon as we had more data on it, and with an almost 75% return rate this year, we have a whole lot of plays that we’ve been working through and a lot of people and we’ve been working really diligently on this because we think the results are heading into a really good direction. But we do need to address the injuries that we saw to the returner and to the tackler this year.”

ATLANTA – Television viewers and players alike had trouble distinguishing between teams during Saturday’s international soccer friendly between the United States and Belgium, as uniform color similarities created widespread confusion throughout the Americans’ 5-2 loss.

The match served as a showcase for both nations’ new World Cup uniforms ahead of the tournament running from June 11 through July 19. The competition will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Team USA debuted jerseys featuring red and white stripes inspired by the American flag, while Belgium introduced their alternate uniforms in light blue with pink details.

Belgian winger Jeremy Doku expressed frustration with the situation during post-game interviews with his country’s television network. “Sometimes you had to look twice, especially if you wanted to play quickly,” Doku explained. “I would have preferred clearer colours.”

USA team captain Christian Pulisic echoed those concerns when speaking with media representatives. “A lot of times you get the ball and you look up, you can’t really lock in on something. You only can base it off the colour of the shirt. That’s how it works,” Pulisic stated. “And when it’s very similar, it’s difficult.”

Belgian broadcasters issued an on-air apology to their audience following the conclusion of the match. Former Belgian national team player and current television analyst Marc Degryse directed sharp criticism toward event organizers.

“Football is a product that needs to be sold. Everything always has to be better and better, yet they still managed to make the match annoying with the jerseys,” Degryse commented. “This goes completely against the whole commercial aspect. This is really unacceptable.”

Officials from US Soccer defended their decision, stating that photographs of both team’s jerseys had been provided to match officials beforehand, and referees never expressed concerns about potential color conflicts.

Reports from Belgian news outlets on Sunday placed responsibility on the host American team, claiming they refused to compromise on wearing their new red and white design despite knowing it would create visibility issues with Belgium’s traditional red jerseys and their backup kit.

According to these reports, both nations wanted to unveil their new uniforms for the first time during this high-profile matchup. Belgium reportedly offered to switch to their standard red jerseys once the problem became apparent, but this solution proved ineffective since the American design also incorporated significant red elements. While the United States could have opted for their navy blue alternate uniforms, sources indicated this change would have conflicted with their marketing strategy.

Atlanta Braves newcomer Dominic Smith made baseball history Saturday night, launching a walk-off grand slam that capped a remarkable six-run ninth inning comeback to defeat the Kansas City Royals 6-2.

Smith’s dramatic 386-foot blast to right-center field came with one out against Kansas City closer Carlos Estevez (0-1), who couldn’t preserve a 2-0 lead. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, Smith became the first player in Major League Baseball history to hit a walk-off grand slam in his debut with a new team.

The thrilling ninth-inning rally began when Drake Baldwin drew a leadoff walk, advanced to third on Matt Olson’s single, and came home on Mike Yastrzemski’s one-out single. Following Ozzie Albies’ walk, Jorge Mateo — running for Olson — crossed the plate with the tying run when Michael Harris II lined a single. Osvaldo Bido (1-0) earned the victory after striking out all three batters he faced in the ninth.

Kansas City had broken a scoreless deadlock in the seventh when Salvador Perez connected on a solo home run off Reynaldo Lopez’s first pitch, snapping the Royals’ 15-inning scoreless streak to begin the season. The blast marked Perez’s 304th career homer, putting him just 13 away from matching Hall of Famer George Brett’s franchise record.

Cardinals 6, Rays 5 (10 innings)

Rookie JJ Wetherholt delivered a clutch two-run single with one out in the 10th inning, propelling St. Louis to victory over visiting Tampa Bay. Jordan Walker opened the frame by drawing a four-pitch walk, placing runners on first and second. Victor Scott II executed a perfect sacrifice bunt to advance both runners before Wetherholt grounded the first pitch into right field for his first career walk-off hit. Griffin Jax (0-1) suffered the loss after failing to preserve the save in the 10th.

Cardinals closer Ryne Stanek (1-0) earned the victory despite surrendering the save in the ninth and allowing the go-ahead run in the 10th. Yandy Diaz had given Tampa a 5-4 advantage by singling home automatic runner Ben Williamson on the first pitch of the 10th inning.

Guardians 6, Mariners 5 (10 innings)

Chase DeLauter continued his hot streak with a two-run homer in the 10th inning, his third consecutive game with a long ball, as Cleveland defeated host Seattle. The Guardians broke a 3-3 deadlock when Brendon Donovan’s throwing error on Steven Kwan’s bunt allowed Brayan Rocchio to score from second base. DeLauter then crushed a 2-2 fastball from Andres Munoz (0-1) just over the left field wall for his fourth homer of the season.

Seattle’s Luke Raley answered with a two-run shot to center with one out in the bottom of the 10th, his third homer in three games, but right-hander Connor Brogdon struck out Leo Rivas and Cole Young to secure the save.

Reds 6, Red Sox 5 (11 innings)

Dane Myers drove home automatic runner TJ Friedl from second base with the decisive hit, leading host Cincinnati to a wild 11-inning victory over Boston. Sal Stewart homered and collected two RBIs, Elly De La Cruz belted his first homer of 2026, and Matt McLain contributed three hits as the Reds captured their first win of the season. Connor Phillips (1-0) struck out three and retired all five batters he faced in the 10th and 11th innings for the victory.

Trevor Story, who had homered earlier, lined into a double play to end the top of the 11th. Right-hander Justin Slaten (0-1) allowed the game-winning hit. Boston nearly avoided defeat when Wilyer Abreu homered in the ninth to tie the game at 5-all with the Red Sox down to their final out.

Rangers 5, Phillies 4 (10 innings)

Texas scored on a wild pitch and Andrew McCutchen’s RBI single in the 10th inning, then held on to defeat host Philadelphia. Corey Seager and Jake Burger launched early home runs for the Rangers, who squandered a 3-0 lead but recovered to give Skip Schumaker his first victory as their manager.

Philadelphia’s Brandon Marsh delivered the game-tying hit in the ninth for a 3-3 deadlock. Trailing 5-3 with two outs in the bottom of the 10th, Bryce Harper singled in one run, but reliever Tyler Alexander got Alec Bohm to pop out to end the game.

Mets 4, Pirates 2 (11 innings)

Luis Robert Jr. crushed a walk-off three-run homer in the 11th inning for New York, which rallied from multiple deficits in extra innings to beat visiting Pittsburgh. Bryan Reynolds had given the Pirates the lead with an RBI infield single in the top of the 11th before the Mets responded against Hunter Barco (0-1). Jorge Polanco worked a five-pitch walk, setting up Robert’s 1-0 pitch that sailed beyond the left-center-field wall for his first homer with New York and second career walk-off shot.

Richard Lovelady (1-0) allowed an unearned run in the top of the 11th before earning his first major league victory since 2024. Luis Torrens had tied the game with an RBI single in the 10th for the Mets. Pittsburgh’s Nick Gonzales contributed an RBI single in the top of the 10th, while Gonzales, Reynolds, and Jake Mangum each collected two hits.

Blue Jays 8, Athletics 7 (11 innings)

Ernie Clement stroked an RBI single in the 11th inning as host Toronto rallied to defeat Oakland. Clement’s hit off Luis Medina (0-1) gave the Blue Jays their second consecutive walk-off victory to start the season. Spencer Miles (1-0) made his major league debut in the 11th inning and worked around a walk to earn the win.

Shea Langeliers connected on his third career grand slam in the seventh inning to give Oakland a 6-2 advantage. Toronto’s Alejandro Kirk tied the game at six with a one-out solo homer in the ninth. Oakland’s Brent Rooker delivered an RBI single in the 10th, but the Blue Jays answered with Addison Barger’s sacrifice fly in the home 10th.

Dodgers 3, Diamondbacks 2

Will Smith launched a go-ahead two-run homer in the eighth inning as the two-time defending champion Los Angeles completed a three-game, season-opening sweep with a victory over visiting Arizona. Freddie Freeman collected three hits, including an RBI double, starter Tyler Glasnow delivered six strong innings, and new Dodgers closer Edwin Diaz recorded his second save in two nights.

Corbin Carroll contributed a hit, an RBI, and a run scored, while Venezuela’s World Baseball Classic hero Eduardo Rodriguez allowed an unearned run over five-plus innings in a no-decision for Arizona.

Cubs 10, Nationals 2

Miguel Amaya and Ian Happ homered while right-hander Cade Horton pitched effectively into the seventh inning in a dominant season debut as host Chicago routed Washington. The Cubs out-hit the Nationals 9-4, with Amaya collecting two hits and two RBIs while Pete Crow-Armstrong added two hits. Horton (1-0) cruised with the offensive support, allowing two runs and four hits over 6 1/3 innings with one walk and four strikeouts.

Horton was perfect through three innings before James Wood connected on a solo home run for Washington’s only extra-base hit. Chicago pounded right-hander Miles Mikolas in his Nationals debut, tagging the veteran for six runs (four earned) and six hits in five innings. Mikolas (0-1) walked three and struck out four.

Twins 4, Orioles 1

Royce Lewis launched a two-run home run as Minnesota earned its first victory under first-year manager Derek Shelton by defeating host Baltimore. Six Minnesota pitchers combined on a five-hitter while striking out 16 batters and walking six. Anthony Banda (1-0) earned the victory with two-thirds of an inning of relief, while Cole Sands worked the ninth and was credited with a save.

Baltimore stranded 11 runners, with Jeremiah Jackson collecting two hits for the Orioles. Minnesota starter Taj Bradley struck out nine in 4 1/3 innings, allowing one run on three hits before finishing after 92 pitches. Orioles starter Kyle Bradish (0-1) lasted 4 2/3 innings, surrendering three runs (two earned) on two hits.

Brewers 6, White Sox 1

Chad Patrick pitched effectively into the fifth inning and Brice Turang doubled twice to lead Milwaukee past visiting Chicago for its second straight victory. Aaron Ashby (1-0) earned the win with 1 2/3 innings of scoreless relief. Patrick allowed one run on five hits in 4 1/3 innings, striking out four and walking one. Garrett Mitchell delivered a two-run single in a three-run first inning, and Christian Yelich went 3-for-5 with an RBI hit.

Munetaka Murakami homered for the second consecutive game, a 409-foot leadoff shot in the fourth inning off Patrick to pull Chicago within 4-1. Starter Sean Burke (0-1) allowed four runs (three earned) on seven hits over four innings.

Astros 11, Angels 9

Yainer Diaz and Jake Meyers each drove in two runs during an eight-run sixth inning for Houston, which rallied from a six-run deficit to beat visiting Los Angeles. The Astros scored all eight runs with two outs. Isaac Paredes and Carlos Correa also contributed two RBIs apiece for Houston. Meyers, Correa, Yordan Alvarez, and Christian Walker each had two hits. Astros starter Cristian Javier lasted 4 2/3 innings, allowing six runs and four hits with one strikeout and four walks. Kai-Wei Teng (1-0) threw 2 1/3 scoreless innings of relief to earn the victory.

Oswald Peraza homered and singled twice, Jorge Soler and Nolan Schanuel also homered, and Mike Trout singled, walked twice, and scored two runs for the Angels, who were attempting to start 3-0 for the first time since winning their first five games in 2006.

Yankees 3, Giants 1

Aaron Judge homered in his second straight game and Ben Rice doubled in two runs as visiting New York beat San Francisco to complete a three-game series sweep. San Francisco put its first two batters on base in the ninth against David Bednar before Harrison Bader struck out and Patrick Bailey grounded into a double play. The Giants scored their first run of the season in the third when Jung Hoo Lee hit a leadoff double off Will Warren and scored on Matt Chapman’s single up the middle.

Bednar recorded his second save in as many games for the Yankees, who outscored the Giants 13-1 in the series and turned four inning-ending double plays in the finale. Jake Bird (1-0), one of four New York relievers, earned the victory with 1 2/3 scoreless innings.

Padres 3, Tigers 0

Randy Vasquez fired six shutout innings as host San Diego beat Detroit and avoided a season-opening, three-game sweep. Vasquez allowed just two hits, both to third baseman Cole Keith, while walking three and striking out eight, one shy of his career high. Kyle Hart followed with two perfect innings and Mason Miller worked the ninth to earn the save. It was the first win for Craig Stammen, the Padres’ first-year manager.

Jack Flaherty absorbed the loss for Detroit, allowing four hits and three runs (two earned) over 4 1/3 innings. Flaherty walked four and struck out two.

Marlins 4, Rockies 3

Rookie Owen Caissie drove in the go-ahead run in the eighth inning, and Liam Hicks posted three RBIs as Miami rallied to defeat visiting Colorado. Pete Fairbanks, acquired as an offseason free agent, earned his second save in two games for the Marlins. Caissie, acquired in January from the Cubs as part of the package for Edward Cabrera, went 3-for-4 with a double, a steal, and one RBI. Hicks had a two-run homer and a sacrifice fly.

Colorado connected on two home runs: a two-run shot by Ezequiel Tovar and TJ Rumfield’s solo blast. Rumfield’s homer was the first of his major-league career in just his second game. Calvin Faucher (1-0) earned the win with one inning of scoreless relief, while Jaden Hill (0-1) took the loss, allowing one run and two hits in 1 2/3 innings.

The Washington Capitals mounted a dramatic comeback Saturday night in Las Vegas, with Dylan Strome breaking out of a lengthy scoring slump to deliver both the equalizing goal and the shootout winner in a thrilling 5-4 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights.

Strome, who had been held without a goal for 17 consecutive games, found redemption after hitting the goalpost on his opening shot of the contest. The forward knotted the score at 4-4 during the middle portion of the final period, converting a power-play opportunity by firing a one-timer from the right circle’s center. He then sealed the victory in the shootout’s opening round, lifting a backhand shot over goaltender Adin Hill.

Washington received offensive contributions from Justin Sourdif, who recorded one goal and one assist, while Cole Hutson contributed two helpers. Hendrix Lapierre and Anthony Beauvillier also found the back of the net for the Capitals, who trail the Eastern Conference’s second wild card position by four points. Netminder Logan Thompson turned aside 25 shots and was perfect on all three shootout attempts he faced.

Vegas was led by Jack Eichel’s three-point performance, including one goal and two assists. Rasmus Andersson added a goal and assist, while Nic Dowd and Mitch Marner also scored for the Golden Knights, who suffered their third consecutive defeat and sixth loss in seven outings. Hill recorded 17 saves for Vegas, which now sits three points behind Pacific Division runner-up Edmonton.

In other NHL action, the New York Islanders exploded for five second-period goals to overcome Florida 5-2 in Elmont. Rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer tied a franchise record with his 56th point of the season, matching Stefan Persson’s mark from 1977-78. The victory moved New York one point ahead of Pittsburgh for the Metropolitan Division’s second playoff position.

Tampa Bay extended their point streak to seven games with a 4-2 triumph over Ottawa. Emil Lilleberg provided the go-ahead goal at 8:51 of the third period and finished with a career-high three points. Andrei Vasilevskiy earned his NHL-leading 35th victory with 26 saves.

Connor McDavid continued his pursuit of another scoring title, recording three points in Edmonton’s 4-2 victory over Anaheim. The league’s points leader now has 124 points on 42 goals and 82 assists, extending his point streak to four games.

Boston received two goals each from Pavel Zacha and Elias Lindholm in a 6-3 win over Minnesota, while Carolina kept pace atop the Eastern Conference with a 5-2 victory over New Jersey behind Nikolaj Ehlers’ goal and assist.

In late-game drama, Igor Chernyshov scored with 1:25 remaining to lift San Jose past Columbus 3-2, snapping the Sharks’ six-game losing streak. Cole Perfetti’s late third-period goal helped Winnipeg defeat Colorado 4-2, moving the Jets within three points of a Western Conference wild card spot.

Dallas ended a four-game slide with a 6-3 victory over Pittsburgh, getting Miko Rantanen back in the lineup after nearly two months. Montreal began a crucial five-game road trip with a 4-1 win in Nashville, while Buffalo rallied for a 3-2 shootout victory over Seattle.

St. Louis continued their dominant March with a 5-1 rout of Toronto, improving to 10-1-2 this month. Philadelphia matched a franchise record with their eighth consecutive road victory, defeating Detroit 5-3 behind Owen Tippett’s hat trick.

Utah strengthened their wild card position with a 6-2 victory over Los Angeles, while Calgary rode a four-goal second period to a 7-3 win over struggling Vancouver, extending their remarkable streak to 55 consecutive victories when scoring four or more goals.

The Philadelphia 76ers mounted an impressive comeback Saturday night, overcoming a 15-point deficit to defeat the Charlotte Hornets 118-114 in North Carolina. Joel Embiid led the charge with 29 points and delivered a crucial defensive block in the game’s final moments.

The victory brought Charlotte’s impressive five-game winning streak to an end and secured Philadelphia a 2-1 season series win, which could prove valuable for Eastern Conference playoff positioning.

Philadelphia received significant contributions from returning players. Paul George, playing just his second game after completing a 25-game suspension related to the league’s anti-drug policy violations, contributed 26 points. Tyrese Maxey matched that total with 26 points in his comeback performance after sitting out 10 games due to a finger injury.

Charlotte was paced by Brandon Miller’s 29-point effort, while LaMelo Ball chipped in 20 points and Coby White added 16. Despite the loss, the Hornets secured their first playoff tournament berth since 2022 after Milwaukee fell to San Antonio earlier Saturday.

Spurs 127, Bucks 95

Stephon Castle recorded his fourth triple-double this season as San Antonio dominated Milwaukee on the road, extending their winning streak to eight consecutive games.

The victory marked San Antonio’s 13th win in their last 14 contests, keeping them within striking distance of Oklahoma City for the Western Conference’s top position. The Spurs trail the defending champion Thunder by just two games with eight regular season matchups remaining.

Castle posted 22 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, while Victor Wembanyama paced all scorers with 23 points and grabbed 15 rebounds. Milwaukee, playing without Giannis Antetokounmpo for the sixth consecutive game due to a left knee issue, was led by Gary Trent Jr.’s 18 points.

Pistons 109, Timberwolves 87

Tobias Harris delivered an efficient 18-point performance on 7-of-10 shooting as Detroit dominated Minnesota in Minneapolis for a convincing road victory.

Ronald Holland II and Daniss Jenkins each contributed 13 points for the Pistons, who captured their sixth victory in seven outings. Paul Reed provided 12 points from the bench, while Jalen Duren achieved a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds.

Minnesota’s Donte DiVincenzo topped all scorers with 22 points, connecting on five three-point attempts. Rudy Gobert recorded 14 points and 12 rebounds, while Julius Randle managed just 11 points on a difficult 2-of-13 shooting night. Detroit’s 60-43 second-half scoring advantage proved decisive.

Hawks 123, Kings 113

Nickeil Alexander-Walker’s 27-point performance and Jalen Johnson’s 26 points and 10 assists helped Atlanta defeat Sacramento, delivering coach Quin Snyder his 500th career victory and making him the sixth active NBA coach to reach that milestone.

CJ McCollum added 22 points while Jock Landale recorded 19 points and 13 rebounds for Atlanta, which has now won 15 of their last 17 games. Zaccharie Risacher scored 13 points and Mohamed Gueye contributed 10 for the Hawks, who maintain a half-game advantage over Philadelphia for the Eastern Conference’s sixth seed.

Sacramento received 22 points from DeMar DeRozan and 18 points with 10 rebounds from Maxime Raynaud. Precious Achiuwa scored 16, DaQuan Jeffries added 15, and Daeqwon Plowden contributed 14 for the Kings, who suffered their third straight defeat. Malik Monk and Killian Hayes each scored 10 points.

Suns 134, Jazz 109

Jalen Green exploded for 31 points with five three-pointers while Devin Booker added 26 points as Phoenix matched their season scoring high in a dominant performance against Utah.

Grayson Allen scored 19 points and Oso Ighodaro contributed 13 points and eight rebounds for the Suns, who snapped a rough stretch that saw them lose six of seven games. Green shot an impressive 13-of-22 from the field and 5-of-11 from beyond the arc, adding six rebounds and three assists in just 22 minutes. Booker distributed eight assists.

Utah received 26 points from Kyle Filipowski, who also grabbed nine rebounds, while Brice Sensabaugh matched that scoring total. Svi Mykhailiuk scored all 14 of his points after halftime for the Jazz, who have now dropped five straight games and 17 of their last 20.

Grizzlies 125, Bulls 124

Cedric Coward’s 24-point effort, including two clutch free throws with 6.5 seconds remaining, lifted Memphis over Chicago and ended a five-game losing skid.

Tyler Burton contributed 18 points for the Grizzlies while Jahmai Mashack added 17. Rayan Rupert and DeJon Jarreau each finished with 14 points.

Chicago was led by Matas Buzelis, who recorded 29 points and 10 rebounds, followed by Collin Sexton’s 26-point output. Josh Giddey notched his 13th triple-double this season with 18 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists, while Tre Jones added 19 points, nine rebounds, and six assists. The Bulls extended their losing streak to three games and have now fallen in five of their last six contests.

Former boxing champion Floyd Mayweather clarified Saturday that his upcoming rematch against Manny Pacquiao will be staged as an exhibition match, with the location still undetermined.

The 49-year-old Mayweather and 47-year-old Pacquiao had previously revealed plans last month to face off at Las Vegas’ Sphere venue in September, with Netflix set to stream the event worldwide.

Speaking to Vegas Sports Today, Mayweather explained the uncertainty surrounding the venue: “As of right now, we don’t know exactly where the fight is going to be at.”

“The Sphere is one of the places that they talked about. So, we don’t know if it’s 100% going to be there,” he continued.

“And this is not actually a fight, it’s an exhibition…”

“It’s an exhibition, so we’re both winners. I mean, we just want to go out there and entertain the people and put on a good show,” Mayweather stated.

Netflix has not yet provided a response when contacted for comment.

Mayweather had previously declared his intention to come out of retirement last month. His most recent professional match took place in 2017 when he faced mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor.

The undefeated American boxer maintains a flawless 50-0 professional record with 27 knockouts and previously beat Pacquiao, a former eight-division world champion, back in 2015.

Chicago and Washington finalized a player exchange on Saturday that brings catcher Boston Smith to the White Sox organization while sending infielder Curtis Mead to the Nationals.

The 23-year-old Smith was selected by Washington in the sixth round of the 2025 First-Year Player Draft but has yet to begin his professional career in the minors. During his final college season at Wright State, Smith earned consensus second-team All-American honors after posting a .330 batting average along with 26 home runs, 70 RBIs and 70 runs scored across 59 games in 2025. His home run total tied him for first place among all Division I players, while his .770 slugging percentage ranked seventh nationally.

The 25-year-old Mead had been placed on waivers by Chicago earlier this week on Wednesday. During his time with the White Sox last season, the Australian player managed a .240 batting average without any home runs while driving in 11 runs over 41 games. The White Sox originally obtained Mead from Tampa Bay on July 31 in a four-player transaction that sent right-handed pitcher Adrian Houser to the Rays.

ATLANTA — In an emotional and historic moment Saturday night, Atlanta Braves designated hitter Dominic Smith accomplished something never before seen in Major League Baseball history, all while grieving the recent loss of his mother.

Smith became the first MLB player ever to hit a walk-off grand slam during his debut with a new team, according to the Elias Sports Bureau. His dramatic home run capped off a remarkable six-run ninth inning comeback that gave the Braves a 6-2 victory over the Kansas City Royals.

The achievement carries extra significance as Smith’s mother died from cancer less than two weeks ago. Throughout his personal struggle, Smith says his new teammates have provided unwavering support.

“It’s just amazing,” Smith commented after the game. “Played against the Braves for a long time, and being on the other side a lot of these endings kind of hurt, so to be on the right side of it this time was so fun.”

Smith, who barely made the Braves’ opening day roster, shared with reporters how the organization supported him during spring training while his mother battled illness. After receiving her cancer diagnosis in September, she nearly died when training camp began. Smith departed the team for more than a week during a health “scare,” but returned to compete for his roster spot. He was not present in California when she passed away.

“This team is just so awesome,” Smith expressed. “I’m so blessed because of the love they showed me, the support every day. They’re asking about her, asking about her well-being, my well-being, and that’s all they really cared about. They didn’t care about baseball.”

Smith’s moment of gratitude came in the ninth inning against Royals closer Carlos Estévez, who led the majors with 42 saves last season. The Braves had overcome a 2-0 deficit with RBI singles from Mike Yastrzemski and Michael Harris II, loading the bases with one out. After taking a timeout to compose himself on a full count, Smith launched a fly ball into the right field stands, sending the sold-out crowd into celebration.

Smith described feeling his mother’s presence during the celebration and looks forward to the team’s upcoming road trip to Anaheim, where he can visit family and “say his goodbyes.”

“I got choked up a bunch of times, and it’s, you know, I’m trying to hold back tears now,” he said. “I feel her every day. I miss her dearly. It’s not a moment I don’t think about her. And like I said, I’m just so thankful because this team knows what I’m going through. So they really, you know, picked me up the last few weeks.”

Troy University has named Adam Howard, an assistant coach from North Carolina State, as their new men’s basketball head coach, the university revealed on Saturday evening.

Howard steps into the role previously held by Scott Cross, who departed following the NCAA Tournament to take the head coaching position at Georgia Tech. Cross concluded his seven-year run with the program after achieving five consecutive seasons with at least 20 victories.

The Trojans compiled a 22-12 record during the most recent season and secured their second consecutive NCAA Tournament berth. However, their tournament run ended quickly as the 13th-seeded team suffered a decisive 76-47 defeat against Nebraska in the opening round.

The new coach brings familiarity with the program, having served as an assistant at Troy from 2016 to 2018. During his previous tenure, the Trojans earned a spot in the 2017 NCAA Tournament.

Howard completed his first and only season at NC State, where the Wolfpack posted a 20-14 record and made the NCAA Tournament before falling to Texas in the First Four. Following the season, NC State head coach Will Wade moved on to LSU.

Throughout his coaching career, Howard has worked as an assistant at multiple programs, including Southern Miss from 2012 to 2014, Tennessee in 2014, South Alabama from 2018 to 2022, and Nebraska from 2022 to 2025.

Howard’s tenure at Tennessee ended abruptly in November 2014 when he stepped down for personal reasons. His departure occurred while both he and then-head coach Donnie Tyndall faced NCAA investigation regarding recruiting violations that allegedly took place at Southern Miss, where Tyndall had previously served as head coach.

Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic will sit out Monday’s matchup against the Washington Wizards after the NBA handed down a one-game suspension without pay following his 16th technical foul of the season.

The league’s top scorer received the technical during Friday night’s 116-99 home victory over Brooklyn, when he and Nets forward Ziaire Williams got into a scuffle with 5:12 left in the third quarter.

The incident began when officials called Doncic for an offensive foul. Video replay revealed Doncic shoving Williams, prompting the Brooklyn player to swipe back at Doncic’s face area.

Under NBA regulations, a player’s 16th technical foul automatically triggers a suspension. The penalty will cost Doncic roughly $264,000, which represents 1/174th of his yearly contract according to ESPN. Moving forward, league policy mandates additional one-game suspensions for every two more technical fouls he accumulates.

The Lakers had previously won an appeal regarding Doncic’s latest technical, which occurred during a heated exchange with Orlando Magic center Goga Bitadze on March 21. Officials ultimately reversed those technical fouls.

The 27-year-old guard leads the NBA in scoring with 33.7 points per game while contributing 8.2 assists and 7.8 rebounds for the Lakers, who hold a 48-26 record and sit third in the Western Conference standings with eight regular season contests remaining.

Doncic brings an impressive resume that includes six All-Star selections, five All-NBA first team honors, and the 2018-19 Rookie of the Year award.

MEXICO CITY – A tragic accident claimed the life of a spectator at the newly refurbished Azteca Stadium in Mexico City during Saturday’s reopening festivities, according to security personnel.

The fatal incident took place as the historic venue, officially called Estadio Banorte following renovations, was hosting an international friendly match between Mexico and Portugal. The game was designed as a trial run for the facility following intensive around-the-clock construction work to complete renovations by Saturday’s target date.

Security officials report that the victim had been drinking alcohol before attempting a dangerous maneuver. The man tried to leap from second-floor luxury seating to the lower level by scaling the building’s exterior structure, but instead plummeted to the stadium’s ground level.

The venue holds special significance in soccer history, as it is set to become the first stadium ever to host World Cup matches across three separate tournaments. The facility is also slated to hold the opening ceremony on June 11.

NASCAR veteran Denny Hamlin secured his 49th career pole position Saturday at Martinsville Speedway, earning the front-row starting spot for Sunday’s Cook Out 400 race scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET on FS1.

The Joe Gibbs Racing driver piloted his No. 11 Toyota around the half-mile track at 98.241 mph during qualifying, besting Hendrick Motorsports’ William Byron in the No. 24 Chevrolet by a narrow margin of .056 seconds. The two drivers will lead the field when racing begins Sunday, with Hamlin seeking his second win this season while Byron aims to deliver Chevrolet’s first victory of 2026.

“I knew it was possible simply from where my car was in practice,” Hamlin commented after securing his fifth pole award at the Virginia short track. “Any time you’ve got fast lap speed in practice here that’s in the top 12, you’re close enough there that qualifying trim doesn’t change your car that much.”

“You’ve got enough speed to where you nail it and do a good enough job as a driver you’ve got a chance at the pole, so I knew it was very possible but truthfully, I approached the lap to get in the top eight. I think I’d go faster if I went and did it again right now, but I think I’ll go on and stand on my time,” he continued with a grin.

This latest pole achievement places Hamlin in a tie with Bobby Isaac for 10th place on the all-time Cup Series pole winners list, a milestone that appeared to catch the driver off guard. When informed of the accomplishment, Hamlin immediately responded competitively, asking “Who has the next most on the list?” Ryan Newman holds the next spot with 51 pole awards.

“I never really go into any weekend thinking about qualifying on pole, it’s really kind of a sidebar to how my Saturday goes,” Hamlin explained. “It’s pretty awesome, and really, with age, the hardest part is actually still having a fast time. It’s one thing to be able to manage races and use your experience to your advantage. But usually, the first thing to go is your raw speed and we’re still knocking off poles, which is really good.”

Wood Brothers Racing’s Josh Berry claimed the third starting position in his No. 21 Ford, while Hamlin’s teammate Ty Gibbs qualified fourth in the No. 54 Toyota to complete the second row.

Trackhouse Racing driver Shane van Gisbergen delivered a strong oval qualifying performance, earning fifth place in the No. 97 Chevrolet.

The remainder of the top ten starting lineup features Austin Cindric, Carson Hocevar, championship points leader Tyler Reddick, Joey Logano, and Chase Elliott.

SAN FRANCISCO — The San Francisco Giants tied a team record Saturday when they went 20 consecutive innings without putting a run on the board to open the season, before breaking through with their first score in the third inning during their matchup with the New York Yankees.

The Giants had been blanked by New York in consecutive games, losing 7-0 and 3-0 while managing just four hits across both contests — marking the first occurrence in Major League Baseball history of a team starting a season with such offensive struggles.

Jung Hoo Lee kicked off the third inning Saturday by smacking a double to right field off pitcher Will Warren, followed by Matt Chapman delivering an RBI single that sent the home crowd into a frenzy as supporters leaped from their seats in clear relief.

First-year skipper Tony Vitello, who was elevated from his position at the University of Tennessee despite lacking any professional playing or coaching background, joined an exclusive group as the ninth manager in baseball history to see his team shut out in both of his initial two games, and the seventh to experience this during his first two games overall, based on Sportradar data.

The streak of 20 innings without a run equaled the franchise record established in 1909, when the Giants failed to score for 13 innings in their season opener and the opening seven innings of their second game.

The San Diego Padres remain the only franchise to suffer three consecutive shutouts to begin a campaign, which occurred in 2016 when Los Angeles swept them en route to a disappointing 68-94 record.