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A Triple-A baseball manager for the Detroit Tigers organization has been dismissed from his position after acknowledging he sent an inappropriate text message to a female coworker.

Detroit’s front office announced on Tuesday that Gabe Alvarez was terminated due to what officials described as a “violation of club policy,” though they declined to provide specific details about the infraction.

Speaking to ESPN on Wednesday, Alvarez explained that he had sent “a single text message to a colleague that I intended as a lighthearted joke.”

“Shortly after sending it, I recognized that the message was inappropriate and did not reflect the values and judgment I strive to uphold, and I immediately reached out to clarify my intent,” Alvarez stated.

“I never intended to cause discomfort or offense, and I regret that the message created this situation. This was an isolated incident and not reflective of my long-standing record of professionalism, respect for colleagues, and conduct over the course of my career.”

The 52-year-old Alvarez spent portions of three major league seasons playing third base for Detroit and the San Diego Padres before transitioning to coaching at USC. Detroit brought him aboard as a minor league hitting coordinator in 2021, where he managed Double-A Erie starting in 2022 before his recent promotion to oversee Triple-A Toledo in 2025.

This dismissal comes amid broader concerns within the Tigers organization regarding workplace conduct. Last September, The Athletic published findings showing that Detroit had at least eight staff members facing allegations of inappropriate behavior toward women during a two-year period. That investigation spanned from April 2025 and involved interviews with 45 current and former personnel, plus examination of emails, HR files, text communications and legal documents.

According to the report, six of the eight men allegedly involved in harassment and abuse were either fired or not offered contract renewals, while another received a suspension following The Athletic’s inquiry about the accusations.

At the time, the organization released a statement emphasizing its “commitment to a culture of respect, safety, and inclusion.”

With Alvarez’s departure, hitting coach Mike Hessman has stepped into the interim manager role. Speaking to media in Toledo on Tuesday, Hessman indicated the team’s focus remains on baseball despite the recent upheaval.

“There will be questions, we don’t have a lot of answers,” Hessman remarked. “Main message is getting back to baseball. Things happen throughout a season. … One hurdle we’ll jump over.”

NEW YORK — The New York Yankees dominated the Texas Rangers with a 9-2 victory on Thursday, extending their impressive streak to 16 victories in their last 19 contests, though the win came at a cost when outfielder Jasson Domínguez sustained an injury.

Domínguez was carted off the field after colliding with the outfield wall while making a catch on Brandon Nimmo’s fly ball to start the game. Following the contest, team officials announced that Domínguez suffered a minor AC joint sprain in his left shoulder and will be placed on the injured list. Initial concussion evaluations came back negative.

Trent Grisham delivered the decisive blow with a three-run double during a decisive six-run rally in the sixth inning, helping the American League-leading Yankees capture their sixth consecutive series victory while the Rangers dropped their seventh game in their past 10 outings.

The Yankees faced an early challenge when scheduled starter Ryan Weathers was ruled out due to illness. Paul Blackburn took the mound for the opening frame, while 27-year-old right-handed pitcher Brendan Beck made his major league debut, surrendering two runs on two hits and three walks across three-plus innings.

Brent Headrick earned his third victory of the season by throwing 1 1/3 scoreless innings without allowing a hit. Both Grisham and Cody Bellinger collected three hits apiece in the offensive showcase.

Max Schuemann made his season debut at shortstop and recorded his first Yankees hit and RBI with a double in the seventh frame.

Texas right fielder Joc Pederson, making his first outfield appearance since 2023, contributed to the Yankees achieving a rare feat – recording two triples in the opening inning for the first time since Carlos Beltrán and Chase Headley accomplished it on April 22, 2015.

The Rangers struggled with difficult sun conditions throughout the afternoon, mishandling four separate plays. Pederson and center fielder Evan Carter both pursued Paul Goldschmidt’s opening drive off MacKenzie Gore (2-3), allowing the ball to carom into center field for a triple. Pederson later attempted a diving backhand catch on Bellinger’s liner, but the ball bounced to the wall as Goldschmidt crossed home plate.

Additional defensive miscues plagued Texas when Grisham’s fourth-inning popup landed on the infield grass in front of shortstop Corey Seager after third baseman Josh Jung retreated. Later, following Bellinger’s sixth-inning walk, left fielder Alejandro Osuna initially broke backward on Amed Rosario’s routine fly ball and couldn’t adjust as it dropped for a single.

After Ryan McMahon drew a walk, Grisham connected on an opposite-field double that reached the left-center wall, giving the Yankees a 4-2 advantage. J.C. Escarra, Aaron Judge, and Bellinger then delivered consecutive RBI singles against the Rangers’ relief pitching.

Ezequiel Durán provided Texas with two RBIs, highlighted by a third-inning home run. Rangers right-hander Peyton Gray exited the game after taking a line drive from McMahon off his pitching hand in the eighth inning.

Looking ahead, the Rangers will send RHP Kumar Rocker (1-3, 4.71) to the mound Friday night at home against the Chicago Cubs, while the Yankees will start LHP Max Fried (4-1, 2.39) in Friday night’s series opener at Milwaukee against RHP Jacob Misiorowski (2-2, 2.84).

College basketball’s biggest tournament is getting bigger. The NCAA revealed that March Madness will feature 76 teams in both men’s and women’s brackets beginning next season, adding eight additional spots to each tournament.

The expanded format will include 12 preliminary games featuring 24 teams during the opening week, with victorious squads advancing to join the traditional 64-team field. Men’s games will begin on Thursday, while women’s competition starts Friday. Officials expect most of the additional berths to benefit major conference programs.

In Philadelphia, Joel Embiid is making a desperate appeal to 76ers supporters not to sell their playoff seats to New York Knicks fans. With the Knicks holding a commanding 2-0 series advantage, Games 3 and 4 will take place in Philadelphia on Friday and Sunday.

The 2023 NBA MVP missed the second game due to injury concerns, leaving his team in a precarious position. Despite Philadelphia’s attempts to restrict ticket sales to area residents using geographic restrictions, secondary market platforms continue to make seats available to visiting fans. The true test of this strategy will be visible in the arena’s crowd composition Friday evening.

New York Yankees outfielder Jasson Domínguez suffered a left shoulder sprain during Thursday’s contest against Texas after colliding with the outfield wall while making a spectacular catch on Brandon Nimmo’s first-inning line drive. The team confirmed Domínguez sustained a minor AC joint sprain and will be placed on the injured list, though concussion evaluations came back clear.

Playing left field for just his second appearance this season, Domínguez sprinted 81 feet to snare Nimmo’s 101 mph blast, making the grab 375 feet from home plate before his shoulder struck the video board. The impact sent him tumbling to the warning track, prompting manager Aaron Boone and trainer Tim Lentych to rush onto the field.

Despite the injury concern, New York dominated the Rangers 9-2, with Trent Grisham delivering a crucial three-run double during a six-run sixth inning rally. The victory marked the Yankees’ 16th win in their last 19 games and extended their winning streak to six consecutive series.

Soccer’s upcoming World Cup faces potential star power shortages as injuries pile up just five weeks before kickoff. French superstar Kylian Mbappe is currently dealing with a hamstring problem, while Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal and Brazilian talent Estevao are both sidelined for the remainder of their club seasons.

While Mbappe is anticipated to return for Real Madrid this month with no indication the injury threatens his World Cup participation, any setback to France’s premier player raises concerns. Yamal, recovering from a leg muscle strain, is also expected to make Spain’s roster for his debut World Cup appearance.

Tennis players are escalating their fight for increased prize money at major tournaments, with world number one Jannik Sinner joining calls for better compensation at the French Open and beyond. Fellow top-ranked player Aryna Sabalenka suggested earlier this week that athletes might consider boycotting tournaments.

“It’s more about respect. Because I think we give much more than what we are getting back,” Sinner explained, though he stopped short of committing to a boycott. “I think in the next couple of weeks we know also the prize money we’re going to have in Wimbledon. We truly hope that it’s going to be better. Then, of course, U.S. Open.”

The WNBA’s groundbreaking collective bargaining agreement is establishing new benchmarks for women’s professional sports, providing a template for emerging leagues including the WPBL, PWHL and WER. The historic deal features revenue sharing arrangements, significant salary cap increases, and enhanced travel and healthcare benefits.

These improvements reflect years of player activism and the league’s growing commercial success. Leaders of newer women’s leagues are closely examining these achievements, particularly how player solidarity drove meaningful change, though they acknowledge that differences in funding and organizational maturity mean similar progress will require time and sustained investment.

Detroit Tigers Triple-A manager Gabe Alvarez revealed he was terminated this week following what he described as sending an “inappropriate” text message to a female coworker. While the Tigers announced Tuesday that Alvarez was dismissed for violating team policy without providing specifics, the 52-year-old told ESPN he sent “a single text message to a colleague that I intended as a lighthearted joke.”

Alvarez, who played three major league seasons with Detroit and San Diego, joined the Tigers organization as a minor league hitting coordinator in 2021 before managing Double-A Erie in 2022 and earning promotion to Triple-A Toledo this season.

New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby has been diagnosed with a strained right hamstring and is listed as questionable for Friday’s Game 3 in Philadelphia, according to a source familiar with the situation. The injury appears minor, with Anunoby considered day-to-day after leaving late in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals.

Chicago Cubs pitcher Matthew Boyd underwent surgery to repair a partial meniscus tear in his left knee that occurred while playing with his children on Wednesday. Manager Craig Counsell expects the 35-year-old left-hander to miss approximately six weeks, adding to an injured list that already includes starters Cade Horton, Justin Steele and Jordan Wicks.

Three decades of former Ohio State football players, including several who went on to NFL careers, have decided to become part of a federal legal action against the university regarding sexual abuse committed by a team physician years ago, according to an attorney involved in the case who spoke Thursday.

Attorney Rocky Ratliff explained during an interview that these men decided to step forward approximately eight years following the initial filing of the lawsuit because they had to work through feelings of shame about disclosing their sexual abuse by another male and concerns about publicly challenging the university.

The former players are “tearful and living with it,” Ratliff explained. “But as this case progresses on, they see how Ohio State’s treating athletes from the university and I think they want people to know it’s OK, even if it is male to male (sexual abuse), to come forward.”

Since 2018, Ohio State has been defending against federal court cases brought by former student athletes regarding the university’s inability to prevent abuse committed by Dr. Richard Strauss. Hundreds of individuals claim they experienced abuse from Strauss, who served at the institution between 1978 and 1998. Strauss passed away in 2005.

According to Ratliff, the men have executed agreement letters to become part of a legal case filed by other student-athletes who identify as Strauss victims.

Among the 30 individuals, just three have consented to public identification, Ratliff noted. These individuals are Al Washington, Ray Ellis and Keith Ferguson. All three were part of the 1980 Rose Bowl squad and were brought to the team by and competed under famous coach Woody Hayes. The Associated Press maintains a policy of not naming individuals who report being sexual abuse victims unless they voluntarily make their identities known.

According to Ratliff, some additional former football players have reached confidential settlement agreements with the institution that maintained their anonymity.

Ohio State issued a statement saying it has “sincerely and persistently tried to reconcile with survivors, including former football student-athletes, through monetary and non-monetary means, including settlements, counseling services and other medical treatment.”

Through April 15, the university has reached settlements with 317 survivors totaling over $61 million, and continues active participation in mediation processes, the institution stated.

During an interview, Washington described the difficulty of discussing his abuse experience and remembered enduring “unlawful” physical examinations from Strauss when he was 18 or 19 years old. He and fellow players attempted to cope by making light of the situation and joking among themselves.

“But it was really uncomfortable,” Washington, who is now 67, stated.

He avoided discussing the matter with others for decades, but viewing the 2025 documentary “Surviving Ohio State” brought the memories back to the forefront.

“As a matter of fact, I couldn’t make it through that movie,” Washington explained. “The pain and anguish that I saw, I just couldn’t take it.”

Strauss served on Ohio State’s faculty and medical team. He stepped down in 1998 with emeritus recognition. University trustees removed that honorary designation three years ago.

The New York Jets selected Washington in the 1981 draft, and he competed for one season with the franchise. Ellis, who played defensive back, enjoyed a seven-year NFL career spanning 1981 to 1987 with the Philadelphia Eagles and Cleveland Browns. Ferguson, a former defensive end, competed in the NFL from 1981 to 1990, including time with the San Diego Chargers and Detroit Lions.

Basketball committees for both men’s and women’s Division I programs gave unanimous backing Thursday to grow the NCAA tournaments from their current 68-team format to 76 teams, according to reports from several media outlets.

The decision came during what sources described as an urgent joint session between the two committees.

Before the changes can take effect, the proposal must still receive approval from basketball oversight committees for both tournaments, the Division I cabinet, and ultimately the NCAA Board of Governors.

According to ESPN’s Wednesday reporting, discussions about tournament growth have been ongoing for more than twelve months, and with media partnership agreements for the men’s competition nearing finalization in late April, the remaining approval steps are anticipated to proceed without major obstacles.

Reports from last month indicate the NCAA’s plan would place 52 teams directly into the main tournament bracket, while the remaining 24 teams would compete in a dozen matchups scheduled for the Tuesday and Wednesday following Selection Sunday. The victorious teams from these contests would then complete the Round of 64 field.

The current “First Four” designation will be retired under the new format, with officials planning to use “opening round” for the preliminary games and “first round” for what is now known as the Round of 64.

The dozen opening round contests are planned for Dayton, Ohio, which currently hosts the First Four, along with an additional location that has not yet been announced.

The women’s tournament currently holds its First Four games as individual contests at college campus venues.

This would represent the tournament’s first growth since 2011, when the field expanded from 65 to 68 teams through the introduction of the First Four format. Prior to that change, the tournament had maintained either 64 or 65 teams since 1985.

Yahoo Sports reported in April that the Big 12 and Atlantic Coast Conference had been the primary advocates pushing for tournament expansion. NCAA president Charlie Baker has also publicly endorsed the idea.

“I said all along that I think there are some very good reasons to expand the tournament,” Baker told ESPN in February. “So, I would like to see it expand.”

Transportation officials in New Jersey announced Thursday they are cutting round-trip ticket prices for World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium from $150 to $105, according to local news outlets, following pushback from FIFA over the original pricing.

Despite the reduction, the new fare remains dramatically higher than the under-$15 cost for the same journey on regular days and surpasses the $80 round-trip price for FIFA’s dedicated shuttle to the 82,500-capacity venue. MetLife Stadium is scheduled to host eight World Cup contests, culminating with the championship match on July 19.

NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri previously defended the elevated pricing last month, pointing to enhanced security requirements and anticipated passenger volume increases resulting from restricted public parking near the stadium.

Reuters reached out to NJ Transit seeking additional details about the fare adjustment.

Heimo Schirgi, Chief Operating Officer for the 2026 World Cup, had criticized the initial $150 cost, stating it would have “a chilling effect” on supporters.

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill had earlier argued that FIFA should cover transportation expenses, noting that NJ Transit faced being “stuck with a $48 million bill” to guarantee fan security.

NEW YORK — Yankees outfielder Jasson Domínguez was transported by cart to NewYork-Presbyterian hospital Thursday after a dramatic collision with the left field wall during the team’s matchup with Texas.

The incident occurred in the opening inning when Domínguez sprinted 81 feet to snag Brandon Nimmo’s blistering 101 mph line drive. While successfully making the catch 375 feet from home plate, Domínguez’s shoulder slammed forcefully into the video advertising board along the wall.

The impact sent Domínguez tumbling to the warning track, landing chest-first as his sunglasses were knocked off. Center fielder Trent Grisham quickly rushed over while manager Aaron Boone and the Yankees’ medical staff — including head trainer Tim Lentych, assistant trainer Jimmy Downam, and sports medicine director Michael Schuk — hurried onto the field.

After approximately one minute on the ground, Domínguez sat up while holding his head in his glove. He gestured toward his shoulder and moved his neck during the medical examination before walking independently to the cart that transported him off the field.

Medical staff took Domínguez for an MRI of his left shoulder, and he was placed in Major League Baseball’s concussion protocol as a precautionary measure.

The Yankees adjusted their defensive alignment following Domínguez’s departure, shifting Cody Bellinger from right field to left field, moving Amed Rosario from third base to right field, and bringing Ryan McMahon into the game at third base. This marked only Domínguez’s second appearance in the outfield this season for New York.

IndyCar officials have pulled a promotional T-shirt from their online store following customer complaints that the garment’s wording could be viewed as racially insensitive.

The controversial merchandise was created to advertise the upcoming August Freedom 250 race in Washington, featuring an illustration of President Abraham Lincoln donning a racing helmet. The design included the text “ONE NATION” positioned above Lincoln’s image and “ONE RACE” printed below it.

Critics argued the phrasing might carry racist implications, sparking heated discussions across social media platforms during the shirt’s short time for sale.

“A shirt was removed from IndyCar’s online store following feedback from customers,” IndyCar officials said in their response. “We understand that some individuals found its phrasing concerning and therefore have remedied the situation.”

The Washington racing event carries a patriotic focus as part of commemorating America’s upcoming 250th independence anniversary. President Donald Trump has praised the competition as a key component of the White House’s “Freedom 250” festivities.

During the race, IndyCar drivers will navigate a course that passes by significant Washington monuments, including the Lincoln Memorial, which appears to have inspired the T-shirt’s design. Lincoln remains celebrated primarily for his leadership during the Civil War, which ultimately abolished slavery throughout the United States.

The NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Tournament moves forward with second and third round competition scheduled to take place. Teams across the nation are preparing for the next phase of championship play as the field narrows toward the final rounds.

The tournament bracket continues to unfold as collegiate lacrosse programs battle for positioning in the quest for a national title. Second round matchups will determine which teams advance to face additional competition in the third round of play.

Championship action represents the culmination of the college lacrosse season, with participating teams having earned their spots through regular season performance and conference tournament results. The elimination format ensures only the strongest programs continue their pursuit of the national championship.

While Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby battles to maintain his college playing status, multiple NFL franchises are reportedly considering him as a potential pick in the supplemental draft if his collegiate career comes to an end.

The signal-caller joined the Red Raiders from Cincinnati during the off-season and took part in spring workouts, but his regular season participation remains uncertain as the NCAA examines gambling allegations. NCAA regulations strictly forbid student-athletes and staff members from placing bets on any NCAA championship events, including football.

According to reports from ESPN and Cleveland.com, professional teams are conducting evaluations to assess Sorsby’s potential value should he decide to enter the supplemental draft before the June 30 cutoff date.

The investigation centers on Sorsby’s alleged wagering activities involving Major League Baseball and college football contests, including reported bets on Indiana football during his 2022 redshirt season with the Hoosiers.

Despite the controversy, Sorsby demonstrated strong performance on the field. During his redshirt freshman campaign at Indiana in 2023, he recorded 15 touchdown passes. Across his three seasons with both the Hoosiers and Bearcats (2024-25), he accumulated 82 total touchdowns, including 22 rushing scores, while throwing 17 interceptions.

His most recent season at Cincinnati saw him throw 27 touchdown passes against just five interceptions.

The NFL last conducted a supplemental draft in 2019. Established in 1977, this special draft was designed to provide opportunities for players experiencing “sudden eligibility changes” to transition from college to professional football. The league will likely conduct a thorough review of Sorsby’s situation before deciding whether to proceed with a July supplemental draft.

Texas Tech announced that Sorsby would participate in a gambling addiction treatment program and take an indefinite break from team activities. The university has retained Jeffrey Kessler, a prominent sports attorney, to fight for Sorsby’s eligibility restoration. Kessler served as the lead counsel in the House vs. NCAA settlement approved in June 2025, which established revenue sharing in college sports. This agreement allows schools to distribute $20.5 million annually to athletes, with yearly increases built in.

Kessler has previously represented the NFL Players Association in cases involving high-profile players including Tom Brady, Ezekiel Elliott, Adrian Peterson, and Ray Rice.

An On3 report indicates that Sorsby has placed over 10,000 sports bets since 2022, averaging up to 20 daily wagers across various sportsbook applications in multiple states.

Notable players who entered the NFL through the supplemental draft include former Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar (1985), Hall of Fame receiver Cris Carter (1987), and wide receiver Rob Moore (1990), who played for the Jets and Cardinals.

The University of Georgia and Florida State University have canceled their planned two-game football series that was set for the 2027 and 2028 seasons.

Both universities cited scheduling conflicts as the reason for scrapping the matchup after the Southeastern Conference and Atlantic Coast Conference each expanded to nine-game conference schedules.

The scheduling change leaves little flexibility for both programs, as the Seminoles and Bulldogs each maintain important non-conference rivalry matchups with in-state opponents – Florida State faces Florida annually while Georgia plays Georgia Tech. These commitments mean both teams already face 10 Power 4 conference opponents each season.

Despite canceling the home-and-home arrangement, the possibility remains for the teams to meet at a neutral venue. Florida State’s athletic director Michael Alford expressed he was “optimistic” about arranging such a matchup, according to ESPN.

Historically, Georgia holds the advantage in the series between these programs with a 7-4-1 record against Florida State. Their last encounter was a decisive 63-3 victory by the Bulldogs in the Orange Bowl on December 30, 2023.

Chicago Cubs left-handed pitcher Matthew Boyd underwent surgical repair on Thursday for a torn meniscus in his left knee, an injury that occurred while he was playing with his children on Wednesday.

Cubs skipper Craig Counsell anticipates the 35-year-old pitcher will be out of action for roughly six weeks following the procedure.

“It’s kind of the minor meniscus surgery so we know he’s going to miss a month, six weeks,” Counsell explained before his team faced the Cincinnati Reds. “Probably closer to six weeks with getting it ramped back up. That’s what we’re hopeful for. Obviously, we’ll see how it all goes and I think the important thing is how much time do we miss throwing. That’s probably the biggest thing right here. The knee is going to recover pretty quickly, but how much throwing down time do we have to take?”

Boyd’s injury adds to Chicago’s growing list of sidelined starting pitchers, joining Cade Horton, Justin Steele, and Jordan Wicks on the disabled list. Horton faces a season-ending elbow injury, while Steele’s elbow problem will keep him out until the second half of the season.

With Boyd (2-1, 6.00 ERA) scheduled to start Friday against the Texas Rangers, Counsell has not yet determined his replacement. Both Javier Assad and Ben Brown are being considered as potential rotation fill-ins.

“We’re just trying to think about the innings puzzle moving forward here,” Counsell noted. “And then you’re also just trying to consider what’s next. You have to play that game, unfortunately. You always have to play that game: What do we do if something else happens? We just have to make sure we’re covered there. … I don’t think we have anybody completely stretched out as a starter right now. So that’s what I’m talking about, the puzzle. We’re just going to have to put that together. We’ll just see what we get there on that day and what that means.”

The Cubs made roster adjustments this week, bringing up reliever Trent Thornton from Triple-A Iowa on Wednesday. On Thursday, they called up Gavin Hollowell while releasing Corbin Martin.

Martin’s departure came after surrendering three runs in Wednesday’s ninth inning, allowing the Reds to erase Chicago’s 4-2 advantage. The Cubs eventually prevailed 7-6 on a walk-off walk in extra innings, marking their third consecutive walk-off victory, 14th straight home win, and eighth victory in a row. Martin posted a 10.80 ERA across seven outings.

Thornton earned the victory in his Cubs debut by throwing a clean 10th inning.

The 28-year-old Hollowell recorded a 2.25 ERA in six games at Iowa before his call-up.

Chicago wraps up their four-game series with Cincinnati on Thursday, with Shota Imanaga (3-2, 2.40) taking the mound against Rhett Lowder (3-2, 5.09).

The National Hockey League announced Thursday that Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar has earned his sixth straight nomination for the league’s top defensive honor.

Makar, who has claimed the prestigious award twice previously in 2021-22 and 2024-25, will compete against Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin and Columbus Blue Jackets standout Zach Werenski for this year’s recognition.

The honor recognizes the league’s top defenseman as determined by votes from the Professional Hockey Writers Association. League officials will reveal the winner at a future date.

The 27-year-old Makar compiled 79 points this season, including 20 goals and 59 assists, while posting a plus-32 rating across 75 games.

Dahlin, 26, achieved personal bests with 74 points on 19 goals and 55 assists, along with a plus-18 rating in 77 games. This marks his first nomination for the award, and a victory would make him the first Sabres player to earn the distinction.

At 28, Werenski has now earned back-to-back nominations for the honor. He accumulated 81 points through 22 goals and 59 assists over 75 games during the 2025-26 campaign.

Two major figures from the Boston Celtics organization have entered the competition to acquire the Seattle Seahawks NFL franchise, according to a Thursday report from Sportico.

Steel industry executive Aditya Mittal, who holds a stake in the Celtics, along with former Celtics primary owner Wyc Grousbeck, have formally submitted their interest to Allen & Company, the investment firm managing the team’s sale on behalf of late owner Paul Allen’s estate.

The Seahawks entered the market officially on February 18, just over a week following their second franchise championship victory at Super Bowl LX.

The duo joins other high-profile potential buyers, including technology leaders Mark Zuckerberg from Meta and Apple’s Tim Cook, who reportedly showed interest in acquiring the franchise last week according to Front Office Sports.

At age 50, Mittal serves as chief executive of Luxembourg-based steel corporation ArcelorMittal. According to Sportico, he invested approximately $1 billion as part of Bill Chisholm’s investment group that acquired the Celtics from the Grousbeck family in 2025.

Grousbeck, now 64, established the ownership consortium that purchased the Celtics in 2002 and is expected to maintain his role with the basketball team until 2028 to ensure a seamless ownership transition.

According to the Sportico investigation, “since Mittal lives in London, Grousbeck would reside in Seattle part-time and effectively operate the franchise.”

Microsoft co-founder Allen acquired the Seahawks in 1997 for $194 million before his death in 2018.

While Forbes valued the franchise at $6.7 billion in its latest assessment, industry analysts anticipate the final purchase price could range between $8 billion and $11 billion. The current NFL sale record stands at $6.05 billion, set by the Washington Commanders transaction in 2023.

A motorcycle racer lost his life Thursday during qualifying sessions at the North West 200 racing event in Northern Ireland, according to event organizers.

Officials have not released the rider’s identity, honoring the family’s request for privacy. The family has also given their consent for the racing event to proceed as scheduled, organizers stated.

“The session was immediately red flagged and emergency services attended the scene but unfortunately the rider succumbed to his injuries,” organizers said in their official statement.

The North West 200 began in 1929 as a handicap competition, originally covering 200 miles through northwestern Ireland. Today’s racers navigate closed public roadways during the event.

This marks the 21st death in the event’s history. The previous fatality occurred in 2016 when British rider Malachi Mitchell-Thomas was killed during competition.

Chicago Cubs southpaw Matthew Boyd has started his recovery process after undergoing surgery to fix a torn meniscus in his left knee, an injury that happened while he was playing with his children at home.

The Cubs added Boyd to their 15-day injured list Wednesday, and while the team hasn’t provided an exact timeline for his comeback, he’s expected to resume mound work in early June if no complications arise.

Cubs manager Craig Counsell described the injury as harmless but “kind of unexplainable.”

In a related roster move, the Cubs cut ties with Corbin Martin on Thursday following his blown save opportunity against Cincinnati on Wednesday. The team brought up towering right-handed reliever Gavin Hollowell from their Triple-A affiliate in Iowa. The 27-year-old Hollowell, who stands 6-foot-7, appeared in seven games for Chicago last year, giving up five earned runs across 9 1/3 innings while recording 10 strikeouts and seven walks.

The 35-year-old Boyd had already spent time on the injured list this season from April 2-21 due to a strained left biceps. Through five starts this year, he carries a 2-1 record with a 6.00 ERA, walking six batters and striking out 31 across 24 innings of work.

Boyd earned All-Star recognition with Chicago in 2025 and brings a career record of 62-78 with a 4.61 ERA across 218 major league appearances, including 204 starts. His career has taken him through Toronto (2015), Detroit (2015-21, 2023), Seattle (2022), Cleveland (2024), and now Chicago.

With Boyd’s absence expected to last at least a month, the Cubs now have three starting pitchers on the injured list. He joins Justin Steele, who’s dealing with a left elbow issue, and Cade Horton, who has a right elbow problem.

Martin, age 30, struggled in his final three appearances, giving up hits and runs while facing just 11 total batters. During that stretch, he allowed four hits, issued four walks, and surrendered two home runs. His season ERA sits at 10.80 through seven relief outings without recording a decision.

LAUSANNE, Switzerland – The International Olympic Committee announced Thursday that traditional summer sports will not be included in the 2030 Winter Olympics scheduled for the French Alps, though officials left the door open for such additions in future competitions.

Olympic officials have spent the past year examining various aspects of the Games, including the possibility of adding conventional warm-weather sports to the winter competition to enhance viewership and athlete participation levels.

Such additions could also provide medal opportunities for nations without established winter sports programs. Officials had previously discussed incorporating events like cycling and running combined with cross-country skiing or snow-based competitions.

“For 2030 we have taken the decision, no crossover sports, no summer sports,” IOC President Kirsty Coventry announced during a press conference.

Coventry indicated that any modifications would impact competitions beginning in 2034 and beyond. Salt Lake City is scheduled to host the 2034 Winter Games.

“The Olympic programme commission… will look at all avenues, and that would potentially lend itself to 2034,” she explained.

Winter sports organizations have resisted these proposals, arguing that incorporating summer events would weaken the Winter Olympics brand identity.

Adding popular competitions like track and field or cycling to the Winter Games would also require current winter sports federations to divide revenue streams with additional sporting organizations.

The bitter split between professional golfer Bryson DeChambeau and the PGA Tour may still be causing lingering resentment that could prevent any future reconciliation.

The 32-year-old golfer acknowledges that ongoing hostility from tour players, rather than new leadership under CEO Brian Rolapp, represents the biggest obstacle to any possible comeback. However, DeChambeau maintains he remains open to finding common ground through negotiation.

Speaking on Thursday’s Beyond the Clubhouse podcast, DeChambeau explained his position: “I think that there’s a way to solve any problem. It’s really about if the membership wants me back. If they want me back, that’s really what it’s about. It’s not anybody, I don’t think it’s even Brian Rolapp or anybody at the top that’s an executive. It’s about the players — if they want me back — and, if not, I understand that.”

Financial uncertainty now looms for DeChambeau and other golfers who switched to LIV Golf for lucrative contracts. Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund will cease funding the league and its tournaments after the 2026 season concludes. When asked about receiving remaining contract payments beyond this season, DeChambeau admitted this week that “your guess is as good as mine.”

This financial question mark has prompted DeChambeau to explore alternative options should LIV Golf cease operations.

Beyond player acceptance issues, DeChambeau expressed concern about possible disciplinary measures from the PGA Tour for his departure, calling such penalties “quite unfortunate in my opinion, considering what I could do for them.”

“The egos need to get dropped,” DeChambeau stated. “Everybody needs to come in with a level-headed playing field, with an opportunistic mindset to grow the game of golf. That’s why I came over here. That’s why I do what I do on YouTube.”

Australian golfer Cameron Smith, formerly ranked second in the world, says league officials have provided him with complete confidence that LIV Golf will operate beyond 2026, even as the organization seeks new financial backing.

Last month, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund revealed it would end its financial backing of the golf league after the current season concludes. Smith joined the alternative tour in 2022 under a deal valued at approximately $140 million according to reports.

The golfer also leads Ripper GC, the league’s Australian squad. Speaking with Australia’s 10 News, Smith expressed that organizers are committed to bringing LIV Golf’s Adelaide tournament back in 2027, calling it one of the circuit’s most well-attended events.

Earlier this year, Smith declined an opportunity to rejoin the PGA Tour alongside other LIV players Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm. In January, he declared: “I am here to stay, I’m here to support LIV.”

LIV Golf’s chief executive Scott O’Neil has expressed optimism that the league will continue operating under a structure involving multiple financial partners. The specifics of such arrangements and their potential effects on the league’s structure remain unclear.

“Since joining LIV, I’ve learned to live with, you know, speculation,” Smith remarked, chuckling when asked about potential retirement if the league disbanded. “I’m 32, so I’ve got a while yet.”

Smith’s performance has declined since joining LIV Golf. He failed to make the cut at last month’s Masters Tournament, marking his sixth straight missed cut at major championships. Though LIV players began receiving world ranking points for the first time in 2026, Smith has dropped to 235th place globally, managing just two top-10 results in the season’s opening six tournaments.

Nevertheless, Smith maintains his competitive drive as he prepares for LIV Golf Virginia before next week’s PGA Championship.

“I want to win tournaments, I want to win majors,” Smith stated. “It’s been a while since I’ve been, you know, truly competitive at the top of the leaderboard. So, the fire is really burning at the moment.

“It feels like I’m getting a lot of confidence back out in the golf once again, which I’ve struggled with.”

PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid has made an urgent appeal to home fans after witnessing New York Knicks supporters dominate their arena during recent matchups.

“Don’t sell your tickets,” Embiid urged. “This is bigger than you. We need you guys.”

However, what the 76ers need most urgently is their injured superstar back on the court.

The 2023 NBA Most Valuable Player sat out Wednesday’s Game 2 against New York due to a sprained right ankle and sore right hip. Philadelphia showed significant improvement compared to their devastating 137-98 defeat in the series opener, but still fell short with a 108-102 loss. The Knicks now command a 2-0 advantage in the Eastern Conference semifinals as the action moves to Philadelphia for Friday’s Game 3 and Sunday’s Game 4.

Historical patterns suggest New York fans will feel comfortable when they arrive in Philadelphia.

Thanks to convenient train access, more affordable ticket prices than Madison Square Garden, and passionate support for players like Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, Knicks supporters have consistently invaded Philadelphia and created a road advantage for what many consider a legitimate championship contender.

Philadelphia’s defensive strategy involved implementing geographic restrictions through Ticketmaster to limit ticket purchases.

This approach, known as geo-fencing in the ticketing industry, involved specific limitations.

A weekend message on their website stated: “Xfinity Mobile Arena is located in Philadelphia, PA. Sales to this event will be restricted to residents of Greater Philadelphia area. Residency will be based on credit card billing address. Orders by residents outside Greater Philadelphia area will be canceled without notice and refunds given.”

The 76ers — along with other professional sports organizations that implement similar regional restrictions — essentially secure their primary entrance while leaving numerous alternative access points available. Multiple resale platforms offer countless workarounds that require no Philadelphia residency verification, making the strategy appear minimally effective.

What generated attention for one news cycle could become a harsh reality check come Friday evening — wealthy Knicks supporters can still purchase from Philadelphia season ticket holders willing to sell.

“I think they’re soft,” commented Knicks supporter Bryan Reinah from Queens during Game 2. “They’re afraid of the Knicks takeover. I think last time we played them it was 47% Knicks fans. Everybody hops on the trains and goes right down. Tickets are cheaper and the Knicks fans travel well. They’re afraid of it.”

The 76ers’ strategy generated widespread media coverage despite being neither innovative nor unusual in professional sports.

The reasoning behind such efforts: why not attempt every possible solution?

Similar examples include the Detroit Pistons implementing identical restrictions during last year’s playoffs, limiting Ticketmaster sales to Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and Ontario, Canada residents. The Carolina Hurricanes employed the same approach against New York Rangers fans during both the 2024 and 2022 NHL playoffs.

Perhaps these cities simply harbor negative feelings toward New Yorkers!

Actually, enforcement of such policies has extended far beyond the five boroughs throughout the years.

Consider 2001, when Washington Capitals owner Ted Leonsis, formerly a senior America Online executive, developed software that prevented Pittsburgh residents from purchasing tickets through the Capitals’ website.

“Pretty cool, isn’t it?” Leonsis remarked in 2001. “I got a lot of emails from Pittsburgh saying I was mean-spirited and unfair. I don’t care. I’m going to keep doing it.”

The 76ers explained this season’s initiative aimed to guarantee tickets remained with local supporters who have backed the team throughout the campaign.

Neither Philadelphia nor Ticketmaster revealed how many face-value tickets became available Sunday.

Ticketmaster released a statement explaining their geo-fencing approach through an upbeat social media video.

“Who gets to buy tickets to sports games? Let us break it down,” the video explained. “Sometimes, sports teams put limits on who can buy tickets for big, in-demand matchups. This is a way to give local fans the best shot at attending the event and to limit scalpers who are located hundreds of miles away, who are trying to flip to the tickets just for a profit.”

Ticketmaster confirmed these policies originate directly from individual teams.

During the Knicks’ 2024 first-round Game 6 appearance in Philadelphia, 76ers ownership including Josh Harris, David Blitzer, David Adelman and former minority owner Michael Rubin collaborated to purchase over 2,000 tickets for distribution to Philadelphia community members.

Thursday’s StubHub pricing for Game 3 showed upper-level seats beginning around $220 each, with lower-bowl options exceeding $1,000.

Whether supporting Philadelphia or New York, those represent substantial financial commitments.

Friday night’s crowd composition — specifically the volume of blue-and-orange attire and Brunson jerseys — will ultimately determine whether 76ers fans heeded Embiid’s request to retain tickets locally.

The University of Kansas basketball program received a major boost Thursday when Dennis Parker Jr., a prolific scoring guard from Radford University, committed to transfer to the Jayhawks.

The 6-foot-6 player revealed his choice to join head coach Bill Self’s program in an announcement to The Field of 68.

During his time with the Highlanders this past season, Parker put up impressive numbers with an 18.3 points per game average. His most memorable performance came in a December 14 matchup against Coppin State, where he exploded for 53 points. In that dominant 107-77 victory, Parker connected on 19 of his 24 field goal attempts and was nearly unstoppable from beyond the arc, sinking 10 of 14 three-point shots.

The Virginia native from Richmond originally started his college basketball journey at North Carolina State. Throughout his collegiate career spanning 88 games with 44 starts between the Wolfpack from 2023-25 and Radford, Parker has compiled career statistics of 9.1 points and 3.9 rebounds per contest.

LAUSANNE, Switzerland – Olympic officials announced Thursday they will eliminate all competition restrictions on athletes from Belarus, marking a major policy change in international sports sanctions.

The International Olympic Committee’s decision represents a significant shift from the blanket bans imposed on both Russian and Belarusian competitors since 2022, when Russia launched its military assault on Ukraine using Belarus as a launching point.

The sanctions began on February 24, 2022, when Russian forces invaded Ukraine with Belarus serving as a military staging area. Four days later, the IOC’s executive board urged sports organizations worldwide to prohibit Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials from competitions.

Olympic leaders stated they acted “in order to protect the integrity of global sports competitions and for the safety of all the participants” while acknowledging the decision came with a “heavy heart.”

Major sports governing bodies including FIFA and UEFA quickly implemented similar suspensions, removing Russia’s national and club teams from all events indefinitely.

The IOC also revoked Olympic Orders from Russian government officials, including President Vladimir Putin, who had received the movement’s highest honor in 2001.

In October 2023, Olympic officials suspended Russia’s Olympic Committee after it recognized regional councils in Ukrainian territories occupied by Russian forces – Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. The IOC determined this action violated Olympic principles and Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty.

Russia’s challenge to this suspension failed at the Court of Arbitration for Sport in February 2024.

During the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, only a small group of screened Russian and Belarusian athletes competed as neutral participants without national symbols or team events.

The International Paralympic Committee restored Russia and Belarus to full membership in September 2025, allowing their participation in the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Paralympics.

In December 2025, Olympic officials encouraged sports federations to readmit Russian and Belarusian youth athletes under 23 to international competitions, establishing protocols for the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympic Games.

Limited numbers of Russian and Belarusian athletes again competed as neutrals at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, though team events remained off-limits.

At the Winter Paralympics that March, some Russian para-athletes successfully appealed to compete under their national flag after challenging a ski federation ban. Several countries, including Ukraine, boycotted the opening ceremony in protest of Russia’s full participation.

Thursday’s announcement removes all restrictions for Belarusian competitors, including team sports participation, while Russian athletes continue facing limitations.