The New York Knicks made history Wednesday night. As did the San Antonio Spurs, in ignominious fashion. With a chance to tie the NBA Finals at 2-2, the Spurs held a 29-point second-half lead in the third quarter and appeared well on their way tying the series up with Game 5 at home on the horizon. But OG Anunoby and Jalen Brunson led New York to a historic rally at Madison Square Garden, completing the largest comeback in NBA Finals history to secure a 107-106 win and a 3-1 series lead. One more win for the Knicks will cement the comeback near the top of the greatest in sports history. But it stands as enough on its own to find its place in the conversation. Let's take a look at some of the greatest comebacks in sports history. For the purposes of this list, stakes matter. A rally in Week 3 of the season doesn't warrant consideration.28-3Those numbers are all that U.S. sports fans need to hear to immediately recall the greatest comeback in Super Bowl history. An Atlanta Falcons franchise known, frankly, for losing, held a 28-3 second-half lead over a New England Patriots team that was at the peak of its powers. Tom Brady had already led the franchise to four Super Bowl wins and secured his place in the NFL GOAT conversation.Play 2026 Soccer Pick 'Em with FOX One and make your picks for the world's biggest soccer tournamentThat reputation was about to be tarnished with a blowout loss to a Falcons team that had never won a Super Bowl. But then the unthinkable happened. The Patriots and Falcons made 28-3 one of the most recognizable scores in sports. Icon Sportswire via Getty ImagesThe Patriots scored their first touchdown of the game with 2:06 remaining in the third quarter. From there, the Falcons went 3-and-out, fumbled and punted twice in their final four possessions. The Patriots scored a field goal and two more touchdowns on their final three possessions of regulation and marched to an opening-drive walk-off touchdown in overtime for a 34-28 win to etch "28-3" into sports history.The ComebackThe 1992 Buffalo Bills entered the playoffs in search of their third straight trip to the Super Bowl. They finished in a four-way tie atop the AFC at 11-5, but were related to the No. 4 seed and the wild-card round due to tiebreakers. When they got there, they played without injured quarterback Jim Kelly, and Warren Moon and the Houston Oilers took a 35-3 third-quarter lead on a pick-6 thrown by backup Frank Reich. Buffalo's hopes of an AFC three-peat looked dashed. But the Bills reeled off a 28-point third quarter after the early miscue, and Reich found Andre Reed for a go-ahead touchdown in the final four minutes of regulation. The Oilers kicked a field goal to force overtime, but the Bills got a stop, then set up Steve Christie for the game-winning field goal in overtime to secure a 41-38 win and one of the greatest comebacks in sports history. Kelly eventually returned to the lineup, and the Bills advanced to the Super Bowl. But that trip ended like all of them for Buffalo — in a loss.Miracle in ManhattanWednesday's Knicks win immediately enters the pantheon.New York was riding high after the Knicks won Games 1 and 2 in San Antonio, inspiring chants of "Knicks in four" across Manhattan. But Game 3 sharply turned the tide. The Knicks squandered a dominant second quarter and halftime lead with a listless second half, and the Spurs were back in the series with a 115-111 win.By the third quarter Wednesday night, "Knicks in four" was starting to feel a lot more like "Spurs in six" as San Antonio, largely considered the better team coming into the series, asserted its dominance with an 81-52 third-quarter lead. The Knicks celebrated the greatest comeback in NBA Finals history Wednesday night.AP Photo/Ross D. FranklinBut a Knicks team that had pulled off previous playoff miracles found arguably the biggest in NBA playoff history. The Knicks limited the Spurs to 30 second-half points, and Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby sent Madison Square Garden and the streets of New York into a frenzy with a 107-106 win for the largest comeback in NBA Finals history.Considering the stakes and New York's 53-year tile drought, they're one win away from placing this win for consideration on the Mount Rushmore of sports comebacks. Miracle of IstanbulAC Milan jumped out to a 3-0 halftime lead over Milan in the 2005 Champions League final and appeared well on its way to its second title in three years. Liverpool had overcome a shaky start to the season and a fifth-place Premier League finish under first-year manager Rafael Benítez. They were relegated to the qualifying round in Champions League competition, but advanced to the semifinals to defeat a Chelsea team that had beaten them three times previously during the season.When they faced AC Milan, though, their sensational run appeared to have run out of steam. But Xabi Alonso, Vladimir Smicer and Steven Gerrard scored three second-half goals in the span of seven minutes, and the match went on to a penalty shootout that Liverpool won, 3-2 to secure the fifth of its six Champions League titles. The game and Liverpool's season were so packed with drama that they're the subject of a Netflix documentary.Lakers stun Celtics to end title droughtBefore Wednesday's Knicks win, this was the greatest comeback in NBA Finals history. And it involved the two most storied franchises in basketball history. Prior to 2008, the Boston Celtics hadn't won an NBA title since the Larry Bird era with his third and final NBA championship in 1986. The proud franchise with 16 championships to its name had wallowed largely in mediocrity since the end of the Bird era, with just a single trip to the Eastern Conference finals since Bird's last trip in 1988.The loathed Los Angeles Lakers had won five NBA titles since Boston's last, including a defeat of Bird's Celtics in the 1987 Finals. And Kobe Bryant’s Lakers had opened up a 45-21 lead in Game 4 of the 2008 Finals, threatening to tie the series after Boston had built a 2-0 lead. But these Celtics with Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen joining Paul Pierce as the core, were built to win a title. And they rallied for a 97-91 win to rally from the 24-point deficit. The Lakers went on to win Game 5, but that only set the Celtics up to secure the championship at home with a Game 6 win in Boston.This list, limited to five, isn’t the definitive list of sports comebacks. Feel free to chime in with who missed the cut and shouldn’t have. But the Knicks have made their case to join the ranks of the greatest comebacks of all tie.

Thomas Tuchel's England have won both of their World Cup warm-up games, against New Zealand and Costa Rica [Getty Images]England's final friendly before the World Cup was delayed by violent storms rattling around Orlando's Inter&Co Stadium – but when it finally got under way it was well worth the wait for head coach Thomas Tuchel.Tuchel was unhappy with England's lack of intensity in their opening friendly against New Zealand in Tampa, the 1-0 win effectively a glorified training session as he fielded two different teams in each half.The 3-0 victory over Costa Rica was a sharp contrast, a fierce physical test with plenty of helpful pointers for Tuchel before England face Croatia in Dallas on 17 June.When asked by BBC Radio 5 Live after the game whether his starting line-up on Wednesday would be the same as for that opening group game, he answered simply: "Maybe."The German then added: "But we will always keep our cards in our hand. We will not give any decisions away because my thoughts at the moment are not for Croatia, they're for here today."It was a very strong line-up but it was a very strong bench as well."So what will Tuchel be considering before he names his starting line-up?England impress to beat Costa Rica in final World Cup warm-upIs England v Costa Rica delay a sign of things to come?Has Bellingham done enough to start?Tuchel has spent recent months deflecting debate about whether Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham or Morgan Rogers of Aston Villa should take England's number 10 role when the stakes are at their highest.The German boss has seemed happy to foster healthy competition between the two boyhood friends, but now decision time is coming.Rogers has been the player in possession, Tuchel keeping faith with the 23-year-old as Bellingham endured a mixed season at the Santiago Bernabeu, interrupted by shoulder and hamstring injuries.Tuchel started with Rogers against New Zealand, although nothing could be read into that as Bellingham came on for the second half and took on the captaincy.There are effectively 14 or 15 "starters" that Tuchel has in mind within England's squad, and both are in that group.But unless Tuchel decides to play Rogers on the left against Croatia, only one of the duo will be in that particular line-up.It will be arguably the biggest decision of Tuchel's reign, and there was no doubt Bellingham resembled a man on a mission against Costa Rica.He produced a superb through ball to Noni Madueke in the first half, which the Arsenal forward wasted by hitting the post after going around Costa Rica keeper Patrick Sequeira.Bellingham showed superb sleight of foot in the build-up to England's second goal. He danced past several Costa Rica defenders in the area before finding Eberechi Eze, whose shot was handled. Anthony Gordon scored the resulting penalty.Rogers also looked lively when he came off the bench – Bellingham briefly being used as a false nine – so the debate will continue to rage.On this evidence, however, Bellingham will take some leaving out.Bellingham has fight to start for England - TuchelWho will play wide left and right?Arsenal's Bukayo Saka will fill the right-sided slot if he is fit enough. A lingering Achilles tendon injury has led Tuchel to manage his minutes carefully, but he is first choice.Saka's Arsenal team-mate Madueke produced a mixed bag of a performance on the right against Costa Rica.The real intrigue centres on who plays on England's left. It looks to be between new Barcelona signing Anthony Gordon and Marcus Rashford – whose future at the Nou Camp is uncertain following his loan from Manchester United.That is another sub-plot to the selection situation, and there is no obvious answer to who will get the nod.Rashford was one of England's brightest sparks against New Zealand, while Gordon looked rusty as a substitute, his cause seemingly not helped by his inaction at Newcastle United in the final weeks of last season, when it became clear he was leaving Tyneside and he was left on the sidelines.Gordon, however, did his chances no harm with a fine performance against Costa Rica, tormenting defender Shawn Johnson with electric changes of pace, making Declan Rice's opener and scoring England's second from the spot.It presents Tuchel with another selection problem, of the sort he will enjoy – with the outside chance that he could always solve the Rogers/Bellingham dilemma by putting the Aston Villa midfielder out wide.In all likelihood, the choice will be between Gordon and Rashford, and both will feel they have pushed their way to the front of Tuchel's thoughts in these two friendlies.England taking care of Saka before World Cup - TuchelDeeper than ever - how does Tuchel utilise Kane?Harry Kane scored his 79th England goal against New Zealand on Saturday - but could not add to that tally against Costa Rica [Getty Images]Kane's status as captain, talisman and main marksman is illustrated very simply by his all-time record of 79 goals in 114 England games.And yet, at 32, he continues to add strings to his bow in a fashion that now makes him the complete player.In Orlando, there was further evidence that Tuchel has effectively given Kane a roving commission to link, create and score – all tasks he performs superbly.In the first half, there was even the sight of Kane picking the ball up in England's own penalty area as they played out from the back, linking comfortably with his defenders.And then, as half-time approached, he produced a stunning pass with the inside of his right foot from a deep position, taking out four Costa Rica defenders to find Anthony Gordon, who thought he had won a penalty only for the decision to be overturned after a video assistant referee review.Tuchel's willingness to allow Kane to roam freely, as he does for Bayern Munich, adds an intriguing layer to the German's strategy.It is clear that Kane possesses the natural game intelligence - described as "uncoachable" by former England striker Chris Sutton – to not only create but also still arrive with perfect timing in attacking positions.Kane's range of passing and vision enables him to find runners like Gordon or Saka, as well as Bellingham and Rogers when they make their trademark surges.It may just give Tuchel and England an X-factor if they drive deep into the World Cup and have to unlock superior opposition.No wonder Tuchel is reluctant to leave Kane out, even for a friendly, so central is he to his plans.Mr Irreplaceable and Ballon d'Or contender - is this Kane's time?Classy Stones presses claim - but who starts at centre-half?When Tuchel decided to leave Manchester United veteran Harry Maguire out of his World Cup squad, it placed his faith in John Stones even further under the microscope.Manchester City's Stones was troubled by injury throughout last season and is now waiting to decide his next club after leaving Etihad Stadium, but his class and pedigree at the highest level has never been in question.This is why Tuchel included him in this squad, and the head coach will have been delighted to see Stones get another 63 minutes under his belt against Costa Rica after playing 45 minutes against New Zealand.If he is fully fit, as seems to be the case, then the temptation will be huge for Tuchel to start his most accomplished and experienced defender against Croatia.Presumably, he would line up alongside Manchester City defender Marc Guehi - although Ezri Konsa's inclusion from the start on Wednesday points to an alternative option.Guehi and Stones did, though, play 45 minutes together against New Zealand and know each other well both internationally and at club level.Identifying the sturdiest pairing is another decision that could prove pivotal as England and Tuchel aim for a strong start to their campaign.[BBC]Here's my starting line-up for England's game against Croatia, with John Stones at centre-half and Jude Bellingham in the number 10 role.Do you agree? Have a go at picking your own XI below...World Cup fixtures and group standingsHow to watch the World Cup on the BBCEverything you need to know about the World Cup

A message on the big screen at Inter&Co Stadium told supporters to seek shelter with lightning strikes in the area [Getty Images]England head coach Thomas Tuchel said the delay to their World Cup warm-up game with Costa Rica gave them a "little taste of what can happen" - but will that prove to be an understatement?The match was due to start at 21:00 BST in Orlando, Florida, but heavy rain and thunderstorms pushed it back an hour to 22:00 BST.Weather delays have been a major talking point in the build-up to this year's World Cup, with several matches in last year's Fifa Club World Cup in the United States impacted by thunderstorms.This was not the first tournament warm-up game to suffer delays caused by storms either - and many fans are concerned it could become a theme throughout the World Cup."We were aware of that before - now we experience it," Tuchel told ITV before the game. "It's no problem. "It should not be an excuse to lose our mood or patience or to lose our hunger to play the game."No problem at all. We realised it when we were still at the hotel so it was easy. We just said half an hour later in the bus and let's go."Fans who had already arrived at Inter&Co Stadium were told to evacuate from the stands and retreat to a safe position on the concourses to avoid lightning strikes.Thunderstorms in the US are not uncommon, but when it comes to them impacting matches, Fifa has no power to make its own rules and must adhere to the advice of local authorities.Recommendations of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are used and they say if any lightning strike is detected within eight miles of a stadium, the game has to be stopped.A mandatory 30-minute countdown begins and each time there is a lightning strike inside the distance, the countdown clock resets to 30 minutes.If a full 30 minutes has elapsed, the supporters can go back to their seats and players will have a short warm-up.'It might not be the worst thing to experience'For fans watching around the world, delays could significantly impact their viewing experience - with an hour or two potentially the difference in watching or missing a match.Scotland, for example, play Haiti on 14 June at 02:00 BST. With fans already facing a dilemma in terms of when to cram in sleep, a delay of even one hour could result in them having to end up missing the game altogether.For England, with kick-off times in the group stage at 21:00 BST and 22:00 BST, the impact would be less major."It might not be the worst thing to experience," former Scotland defender Rachel Corsie told BBC Radio 5 Live. "My experience when I played in America it happened almost every weekend."The bit I hated the most was the fuelling part and the psychology of the fuelling. The routine and what you eat is big psychologically to your preparation."Ex-England captain Steph Houghton added: "I think that was one of the question marks of the World Cup being in America, Canada and Mexico."There was the potential storms could affect the rhythm of the game."What other games have been affected?Large screens in the stadium advise supporters to seek shelter due to inclement weather [Getty Images]England's friendly with Costa Rica was not the first to be hit by extreme weather before the start of the World Cup. The incident in Orlando followed last week's warm-up game between Saudi Arabia and Puerto Rico in Austin, Texas, which was stopped for almost two hours.The match was brought to a halt in the 21st minute as thunderstorms and lightning forced players off ⁠the pitch, with ⁠spectators told to seek shelter.Repeated lightning strikes led to multiple resets of ⁠the mandatory 30-minute delay before play eventually restarted.While the Q2 Stadium will not host any World Cup matches, two stadiums in Texas will be used during the tournament.There will be seven matches at the Houston Stadium, while the Dallas Stadium will host nine games, including England's group game against Croatia - although both venues have retractable roofs which can reduce the impact of the conditions.What did we learn from Club World Cup?The Club World Cup last year was British football fans' first experience of volatile weather in the US. Six matches came to a halt due to electrical storms, with Chelsea's game against Benfica taking four hours and 38 minutes to complete. The fixture in Charlotte, North Carolina, had kicked off at 16:00 local time, but was suspended in the 86th minute when lightning struck in the area.Almost two hours passed before the storm had cleared. Players from both teams were spotted on exercise bikes or kicking balls around in the changing room, trying to keep active before the restart. The game eventually resumed, with the final whistle blown at 20:38 local time - four hours and 38 minutes after the first whistle.Then-Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca voiced his frustrations afterwards as he said: "It's a joke - this is not football."If you suspend seven, eight games, that means that probably is not the right place to do this competition."With the 2026 World Cup taking place at the peak of thunderstorm season in several host cities, we are highly likely to see stoppages again.Play BBC Sport's new World Cup predictor gameWorld Cup fixtures and group standingsHow to watch the World Cup on the BBCEverything you need to know about the World Cup

Lakers’ LeBron James contract reality could cause Los Angeles to seek other options originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Los Angeles Lakers need to improve on both sides of the basketball, and this offseason will give them a good opportunity to do so. The problem for the Lakers, however, is the fact that they might want to keep LeBron James around, and that could come at a high price. Not that James is a bad player at this stage of his career, but he might not be the perfect option on a championship-caliber team like the Lakers.The one problem for the Lakers is how expensive James could be, and their inability to sign other free agents as a result, according to Brian Windhorst."Every dollar [the Lakers] give to LeBron, they can't give to another free agent," Windhorst said. "But there has to be a number in there that respects LeBron, and that gives the Lakers a chance to still improve their roster. And I believe they'll get there. But it may not happen until June 30. We could have three weeks of posturing between now and then."While I understand what Windhorst is saying here, and he makes sense, let's say the Lakers don't keep him and decide to sign some average-type players like Luke Kennard, Jake LaRavia, and other moves we've seen them make in the past. In that scenario, it really doesn't make sense to move on from James. Now, if the Lakers are trying to go after another superstar and can do so because they don't have James' money on the books, I can get on board with this.More NBA news:Lakers’ LeBron James reveals what will finally cause him to retireLakers’ LeBron James makes feelings clear on next contractSpurs’ De'Aaron Fox gets trade update during NBA FinalsMavericks’ Kyrie Irving update has a major impact on Cooper FlaggWarriors, Kevin Durant update would change Western Conference

Ryan Christie wants to be part of the first Scotland team to progress out of the group stages [Reuters]Ryan Christie was the last Scotland player to touch the ball at Euro 2024.He brought it down, was dispossessed, then referee Facundo Tello blew his whistle before he had the chance to take the throw-in against Hungary. It was familiar agony again for Scotland, their exit confirmed by a 1-0 defeat to a 100th-minute goal.Deflation and disappointment was etched on the players' faces, while the Tartan Army were devastated in the Stuttgart stands.It is hurt the squad are still carrying two years on as they enter their first World Cup in 28 years."A few of us left that thinking 'what could have been'," Christie said on The Wayne Rooney Show."So I think this time we've got a bit of a chip on our shoulder that we are going to do something at this tournament."We are absolutely desperate to be the first team to get out of the group stage, take that extra step and create a bit more history."'I still have nightmares'Three days from Scotland's opening game against Haiti - live on the BBC - and the brazen optimism is in full flow.Two years ago Scotland faced hosts Germany in the tournament opener, a 5-1 defeat that Christie vividly recalls as a "humbling" experience.It's one he points to when discussing the Scots' Group C schedule and rounding it off with the "iconic" game against Brazil."Everybody's at the World Cup on merit, so there are no easy games," the Bournemouth midfielder said. "I don't think we're expecting that."But it gives us the chance to get off to a good start. You probably look at the group and that's the easiest on paper."You'd rather face them than Brazil first. I know that from facing Germany at the opening of the last Euros. That was a humbling experience. "I'm still having nightmares about that. But hopefully we can learn from that experience and start this one a bit better."Scotland's Super Mario and social butterfly who emerged from Man Utd cocoonInside the fairytale journey of Scotland captain RobertsonSet up BBC Sport website and app to show you more Scotland this World Cup'One of the great Scottish managers of all time'Christie isn't the only one to have such hopes. A nation is waiting patiently.It's down to the standards set by Christie, his team-mates and head coach Steve Clarke - who "completely changed the set-up" of the national team."When I first joined international football, I know I was a bit younger and probably a bit quieter, but I was counting down the days until I could go back home," the 31-year-old explained. "It's the polar opposite now. If we're meeting up on a Monday, everyone flies up on the Saturday night to spend an extra day with each other - it's brilliant."Key to that is the trust Clarke has in his players. Most know he's as loyal as they come on the pitch, but off it is as important for Christie."He puts a big amount of trust in us in terms of if we have a day off and play golf or something, there's full trust that we're not going to take advantage," he added. "Boys that are going to the World Cup now have been on a journey of five, six, seven years with the manager. "I think after the Denmark game was one of the rare times I've seen him properly smiling and enjoy himself a little bit, which was cool to see. For us as players, we knew how much it would mean to him to tick that off his list."For me, he's got to go down as one of the great, great Scottish managers of all time."World Cup fixtures and group standingsHow to watch the World Cup on the BBCEverything you need to know about the World Cup

Nature, Published online: 11 June 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-01707-1The free platform, called Journal Trends, could also allow integrity sleuths to spot low-quality publications.

NEW YORK — Before Game 4 of the 2026 NBA Finals, with his New York Knicks leading 2-1 but in danger of losing their grip on the series, head coach Mike Brown pulled aside his brutish forward, OG Anunoby, who to that point had not grabbed any offensive rebounds."As big, as strong, as athletic as you are," Brown told the 6-foot-7, 240-pound Anunoby, weeks from his 29th birthday, "you've got to be a monster on the offensive glass tonight.""Told me I need to get on the glass,” Anunoby explained, “offensive glass, especially, and just use my ability, size, strength, athleticism, to make an impact on the offensive glass. "And it happened at the end."Did it ever. Trailing 106-105 in Game 4 to the youthful San Antonio Spurs in the final seconds of a series-tilting contest, Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson fired a 3-pointer over De'Aaron Fox and the outstretched left arm of 7-foot-4 Victor Wembanyama. Only Captain Clutch's 3 sailed wide. But Anunoby was there to snatch it, tipping home a prayer of a put-back."I inbounded the ball to Jalen," said Anunoby, deadpan as ever (at least between smiles). "He got a pretty good look, and I just went and crashed." He sliced through the entirety of San Antonio's stout defense. "Tried to get a tip-dunk or something," he added. "The ball went over my head, so I couldn't really dunk it. So I tried to tip it in softly, and it went in."The tip-in — one Brown called "the most iconic shot in the history of New York basketball" — gave the Knicks a 107-106 lead with 1.2 seconds remaining. It was bedlam in the Garden. A collective scream came from the crowd, arguably the loudest a building has ever been.And then the world's most famous arena fell silent. There were 1.2 seconds left, after all."The game wasn't over," said Anunoby. "I looked up to see the time. If it would've been 0.0, I would have been more excited, but it was just 1.2 left. So just knowing: Get a stop now, just stay with it, staying present, not getting too happy because the game is not over yet."Following a timeout, on the ensuing inbounds pass, Spurs rookie Dylan Harper threw his lob short to an open Stephon Castle, who fumbled an errant pass, failing to get a shot off. Bedlam again. Insanity. That roar is still ringing in our heads. Knicks win, 107-106, seizing a 3-1 lead in the Finals, pulling within a win of the franchise's first championship in 53 years."It feels cool," said Anunoby, delivering an understatement equal in magnitude to his game-winner, drawing a roomful of laughter. "Everyone's pretty excited. I'm excited, too."Anunoby's miracle carom not only brought the Knicks within a victory of history, it made some of it, too, capping a 29-point comeback, the greatest the playoffs have ever seen."The building's already electric, but during a run like that, to see people like Fat Joe and all the others just enjoying themselves at a basketball game — just being human, jumping up and down, high-fiving, screaming — the vibe is just," said Brown, searching for the words we all have been to explain what we just saw, "it's hard to describe, and the energy in the crowd had a lot to do with our comeback, too. It was fantastic. Unbelievable."Oh, and the tip-in gave Anunoby a playoff career-high 33 points on the evening, too."He gave us a chance to win," said Towns, who added 13 points, 10 rebounds and a pair of assists in the win, "and that's all you can ask for from the best two-way player in the NBA."

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - JUNE 10: Anthony Gordon #18 of England celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the International Friendly match between England and Costa Rica at Inter&Co Stadium on June 10, 2026 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona’s new signing Anthony Gordon shone for England in a 3-0 win over Costa Rica on Wednesday in a final World Cup warm-up for Thomas Tuchel’s side.Handed the nod over Marcus Rashford, Gordon was in from the start and set up the opening goal for Declan Rice after just nine minutes with some good work down the left flank.The winger raced down the left and then cut the ball back to the Arsenal midfielder to sweep home and make it 1-0.Gordon also thought he’d won a penalty just before half-time for his side but it was ruled out after a VAR review. It was a decision that left Tuchel on the sidelines raging.The Barcelona new boy did get on the scoresheet in the second half from the penalty spot. Costa Rica substitute Joseth Peraza was adjudged to have handled the ball and Gordon made no mistake from the spot.Jude Bellingham had appeared set to take the kick, but Tuchel explained after the game why the coaching staff called on Gordon to take it.“We just had a lot of subs and it was not clear the order of the takers. Anthony was the second taker (behind Kane). This is normally on the wall. It was not on the wall here,” he said. “So it was a bit of a miscommunication, but it was our responsibility, so we needed to do it verbally, no problem.”Gordon will now be hoping he’s done enough to play his way into the starting XI for England’s first game of World Cup 2026 against Croatia.

OK, so we didn’t mean to take a break but we’re back now! With a 2025/26 season review feeling redundant, the boys dig into some recent news and give their opinion on One Royal’s pros and cons.Matt Ritchie’s retirement and return rumours regarding Yakou Meite pique Ben and Ross’ interest. And with World Cup fever in the air, the boys finish the pod by opening a pack of stickers and discussing their predictions for the small tournament going on in Ross’ back yard.Thanks one last time to our friends at ZCZ Films for sponsoring the pod all these years!Thank you to The Amazons for providing the theme songThank you to Siren Brewing – Get 10% off your next Siren order. Use code TILEHURST10 at the checkout on a minimum spend of £30. Follow The Tilehurst End on Twitter @thetilehurstend Follow Ross on Bluesky @webberross.bsky.socialFollow Ben on Twitter @mrblthomasThe Tilehurst End Podcast can be enjoyed via PodBean, Spotify, Acast, YouTube or iTunes. A big thanks to all listeners who continue to pledge to our Patreon campaign.Listeners can always get in touch with the podcast via our Twitter and Facebook pages as well as our email, thetilehurstend@gmail.com, with thoughts on the show, opinions on the team, and potential topics to sink our teeth into always welcome.Download the show here

Brandon Aiyuk has spoken again. Yes, after posting two images relating to the Washington Commanders over the weekend, followed by a rant against his current team, the San Francisco 49ers, on Sunday, Aiyuk posted another video on his Instagram account this week. While many will focus on the juicier content, such as Aiyuk calling the 49ers "stupid," he said something even more interesting in his latest rant. First, let's look at the video. View this post on Instagram

🥐☕️FC breakfast: World Cup day, van Dijk's new look, Neymar StreetWorld Cup opener: advantage host nation! 🏅On this opening day of the 2026 World Cup (Mexico – South Africa, 9pm), let’s take a look at the history of opening matches in the competition. To date, Qatar remains the only host nation to have lost its first match.A referee like no other 💎Barred from entering the United States to officiate at the World Cup, Somali referee Omar Artan was welcomed as a hero in his home country. Chills…A few hours later, FIFA president Gianni Infantino broke his silence to address the case of the Somali referee.Van Dijk’s new look ✂️Dutch captain Virgil van Dijk is sporting a new hairstyle for the World Cup.Neymar Street 🎨In Novo Hamburgo (Rio Grande do Sul), Brazilian artists have dedicated a nearly 200-meter mural to Neymar.A masterpiece on asphalt to fire up the Seleção’s all-time top scorer as he prepares to play in his final World Cup.TV schedule 📺9:00pm: Mexico - South Africa (beIN SPORTS 1/M6)4:00am: South Korea - Czech Republic (beIN SPORTS 1)This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.

Why is Mexico called 'El Tri?' Expaining national soccer team's widely-used nickname originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.It's been 40 years since Mexico last advanced past the round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup, a drought that included seven consecutive losses in that first round of the knockout stage.With the World Cup expanded to 48 teams in 2026, getting back to the round of 16 would require one knockout stage win — but Mexico is aiming even higher than that.If Mexico can piece together a deep run, you can expect to hear the nickname "El Tri" mentioned quite often.Here's what you need to know about the Mexican soccer team's popular nickname and how it originated.MORE WORLD CUP NEWS:Who will win the World Cup in 2026?Updated FIFA World RankingsHow World Cup qualifying worksExplaining the expanded World Cup bracketFull list of teams to qualify for 2026 World CupWhy is Mexico called 'El Tri?'"El Tri" is quite simply a nickname based on Mexico's tricolor flag, which features green, white and red stripes. The flag is often referred to as "the tricolor," and "El Tri" is derived from that label, with "the" translating to "el" in Spanish.Mexico's kit and branding feature green, white and red, which is also credited with fueling the nickname. Imagn Images Fans can describe the Mexican national team as "El Tri," but as of 2023, the team itself doesn't own the rights to "El Tri" branding after Alex Lora of Mexican rock band "El Tri" successfully sued the club for the rights to the name. MORE:Meet the referees for 2026 World CupWhen did 'El Tri' become Mexico's nickname?The exact origins of "El Tri" as the Mexican soccer team's nickname are unclear, but the team started heavily incorporating red into its kit at the 1986 World Cup.While Mexico traditionally wore green from head to toe before 1986, the addition of red socks marked the true arrival of a tricolor look on the pitch. "El Tri" has become synonymous with Mexico's soccer team ever since, and the team continues to wear the tricolor look even with uniforms that are constantly changing.The Mexican flag has been tricolor from the beginning, as the First Mexican Empire declared in 1821, "the national flag and flags of the army shall be tricolor." While the flag's design changed numerous times before the current edition was adopted in 1968, the green, white and red stripes did not.Just as the flag emphasizes its tricolor look, Mexico's national soccer team embraces the nickname — even if it can't do so in an official capacity anymore.

The incredible amount Real Madrid earn every season from just three shirt sponsorsReal Madrid’s success is often measured through trophies, Champions League nights and blockbuster signings. But behind every major sporting achievement lies a financial machine that continues to set the standard across world football.The latest example came with the club’s renewed partnership with Adidas until 2034, a deal that Real Madrid have described as the most important commercial agreement in football history. Real Madrid have renewed their contract with Adidas. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)The extension further strengthens a relationship that has existed since the 1980s and shows how the club has evolved into one of the most powerful sporting brands on the planet.Financial detailsAccording to Mundo Deportivo, Real Madrid currently generate around €290 million per season from their three main sponsorship agreements alone. It is a figure that highlights the enormous commercial strength the club has built over decades of global success.At the heart of that revenue stream is Adidas, which reportedly contributes approximately €120 million per year through its long-term partnership with Los Blancos. The German sportswear giant remains one of the club’s most valuable commercial allies and a key pillar of Real Madrid’s business model.Real Madrid have set a benchmark in shirt sponsorships. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)Alongside Adidas, airline sponsor Fly Emirates contributes another €100 million annually, while technology company HP adds around €70 million through its sponsorship agreement, despite its branding appearing only on the sleeve of the shirt.A benchmark in footballWhen supporters discuss Real Madrid’s ability to compete for top players, conversations often focus on transfer fees. However, the foundation of that spending power is built long before negotiations even begin.The €290 million generated through sponsorship agreements provides Real Madrid with a financial platform that very few clubs in Europe can match. Those revenues help support player salaries, squad planning and future investment while also giving the club greater flexibility in the transfer market.

Phil Jones: Man United Premier League winner departs current roleManchester United Premier League winner Phil Jones has had another change in his role.United playing careerJones joined Manchester United in 2011 and won a Premier League title in 2013.The England international spent 12 years at the club, but his time was plagued by injuries.In spite of all his years at Old Trafford, he actually only managed to play 229 appearances. This included making just six Premier League appearances in his final four seasons.Post-playing careerJones started a coaching role with Manchester United’s under-14s and under-18s during the 2023–2024 season.In February this year, he rejoined his first club, Blackburn Rovers, as an assistant manager under Michael O’Neill.Jones was part of the staff that helped Rovers avoid relegation to League One and maintain their Championship status for another year.The Star reports that “Phil Jones has said an emotional goodbye to Blackburn Rovers amid talk of a move to join the coaching staff at Sheffield United.”Chris Wilder’s assistant manager, Alan Knill, is leaving the club and there has been speculation that Jones is being lined up to replace him.Jones is also not staying at Blackburn after Michael O’Neill opted not to remain as Rovers boss and signed a new deal with the Northern Ireland national football team.As a result, Jones posted an emotional goodbye to fans on Instagram.His post read, “as my time at Blackburn Rovers comes to an end, I’d just like to say thank you. Returning to Blackburn was something I’d always hoped I’d get the chance to do, so I’m grateful it became a reality.”He added, “I’ve loved being back at the club and have enjoyed every moment. A huge thank you to Michael O’Neill for the opportunity to be part of his coaching staff and bringing me back to where it all started.”Jones signed off by stating, “thank you also to all the players, staff and supporters for making my time here so enjoyable. Wishing everyone at the club nothing but success in the future.”View this post on InstagramA post shared by Phil Jones (@philjones_4)online pollsThe Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Jalen Brunson will probably win the 2026 NBA Finals MVP if the New York Knicks can turn their 3-1 series lead over the San Antonio Spurs into the franchise’s first championship since 1973.But OG Anunoby will endure as the hero. The Knicks trailed the Spurs by 27 points at halftime of Game 4 but called upon the same brand of magic that propelled them to a 13-game winning streak earlier in these NBA playoffs. The Knicks improbably took the lead with less than 90 seconds in the fourth quarter. After two made free throws by Stephon Castle, the Spurs held a 106-105 edge. With around four seconds left, Brunson launched a 3 that clanked off the rim. Anunoby soared virtually untouched to tip the ball in with 1.2 seconds left — an iconic game winner before starved Knicks fans at Madison Square Garden to put the Knicks one game away from glory.OG ANUNOBY WITH THE PUTBACK.KNICKS COMPLETE THE 29-PT COMEBACK FOR THE WIN.LARGEST COMEBACK IN NBA FINALS HISTORY 🤯 pic.twitter.com/ZtWVWY6JsR— NBA (@NBA) June 11, 2026You’d never know the magnitude of Anunoby’s all-time night by the look on his face or the tone of his voice, however.Q: "You just hit the game-winning shot in an NBA Finals game in front of your home crowd. How does that feel?"OG Anunoby: "Uh, it feels cool. I mean, everyone's pretty excited. I'm excited too" pic.twitter.com/WL9PlQDbnc— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) June 11, 2026At his postgame presser, Anunoby was asked how it felt to hit that shot. He maintained a stoic facial expressed and replied matter-of-factly, “Uh, it feels cool. I mean, everybody’s pretty excited. I’m excited, too. We’re all excited. We’re enjoying it right now, but we’re just focused on the next game now.”NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 10: OG Anunoby #8 of the New York Knicks celebrates after scoring the go-ahead basket against the San Antonio Spurs in the final seconds with Karl-Anthony Towns #32 and Jordan Clarkson #00 during the fourth quarter in Game Four of the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden on June 10, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)Overall, Anunoby scored 33 points on 10-for-15 shooting from the floor, including 7-for-9 from 3. Elsewhere at his presser, Anunoby detailed how he remained steady while the the Knicks authored the largest comeback in NBA Finals history.“I’ll just say stuff like, ‘We’re fine. Stay with it, we’re fine,'” Anunoby said. “We know it’s a game of runs. We’re a resilient group, we’ve been through a lot. We’ve came back plenty of times when we’re down. So, staying with it, weathering the storm, not being too down or angry or getting mad or frustrated. Just staying with it, cut it down to 18, cut it down to 12, cut it down to six, just stay with it. Push it through. It’s a 48-minute game, so just play to the end.”The magic number has been cut down to one in New York, as the Knicks have an opportunity to end a 53-year drought if they can win Game 5 in San Antonio on Saturday night.Related ArticlesSpurs' De'Aaron Fox Explains Controversial Late-Game Decision vs KnicksOG Anunoby Just Had the Most Iconic NBA Shot of the DecadeTyler Herro Sparks Heat-Bucks Trade Buzz With Cryptic PostStart your unlimited Newsweek trial

Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Sean Walker (26) checks Vegas Golden Knights right-wing Reilly Smith (19) during a NHL game between the Vegas Golden Knights and the Carolina Hurricanes, Monday October 20, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nev.History unfolded last night as the New York Knicks completed the largest-ever NBA Finals comeback in Game 4 against the San Antonio Spurs, wining 107-106 and going up 3-1 on the series. Starring down a 29-point deficit, OG Anunoby delivered when it mattered most, tipping in the game-sealing bucket with just 1.2 seconds left. Anunoby went on to finish with 33 points and four rebounds on 10-15 shooting, complemented by Jalen Brunson's 36 points, seven assists and three steals. Karl-Anthony Towns contributed as well with 13 points and a team-leading 10 rebounds, despite falling into foul trouble with four fouls on the night.Thursday is set to provide just as much action and betting opportunities with Game 5 of the NHL Stanley Cup Final plus an eight-game MLB slate kicking off later on. To come out a winner, here are tonight’s TST Best Bets brought to you by BetOnline.ag. Click here to join. All new players get a 50% welcome bonus and up to $250 in free bets. First Pick: Hurricanes Under 6.5 GoalsRundown: Riding off a late two-goal run on Tuesday, the Carolina Hurricanes remain at Lenovo Center for Game 5, where they will look to regain the series lead over the Las Vegas Golden Knights.Carolina got off to a blazing start in Game 4 with goals by Logan Stankoven and Jackson Blake putting them up 2-0 early in the opening frame. Even so, the Golden Knights answered right back, tying the game, 3-3, by the end of the second period. Ultimately, team-captain Jordan Staal delivered in the clutch, scoring a backhand goal that reclaimed Carolina's lead. Goalie Brandon Bussi was the difference maker on defense, keeping the star duo of Jack Eichel and Mitch Marner scoreless with 18 saves.As for the Golden Knights, their only first-period offense came from a goal by Mark Stone, who finished the bout with five shots. William Karlsson and Brett Howden each banked in a goal during the second period. However, their efforts were in vain as Hurricane left winger Nikolaj Ehlers scored the game-sealing empty net goal with less than a minute remaining in the final period.With Bussi holding his own against Marner and co., bettors can anticipate another close Hurricane win.Second Pick: Dodgers MoneylineRundown: Despite last night's 9-8 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates (35-33), the Los Angeles Dodgers (43-25) will seek to build on Ryan Ward's electric sixth-inning grand slam going into tonight's rubber matchup.L.A. showed promise in Tuesday's opener as Freddie Freeman earned his 2,500th MLB-career hit, driving in Alex Freeland for the team's 12th run of the game. Andy Pages also had himself a night with a two-run homer in the seventh that out the Dodgers up 6-2. Furthermore, Eric Lauer shoved in 5.2 innings of work on the mound, fanning five batters while only allowing two earned runs. Tonight, Justin Wrobleski is penciled in as the next man up in the rotation with a 2.62 ERA and 44 strikeouts on the season.Meanwhile for the Pirates, they bounced back nicely from Tuesday's 12-3 loss, recording six hits and three earned runs off Shohei Ohtani during his 6.2 innings on the mound. Moreover, Pittsburgh's offense erupted in the seventh with six more runs, including two multi-run homers from Spencer Horwitz and Tyler Callihan. Regardless, the Pirates' bullpen has been a central weakness. Most notably, Carmen Mlodzinksi surrendered four earned runs and issued three walks during last night's matchup. Now, veteran right-hander Mitch Killer will make his 14th start of the season with a 4.81 ERA and 55 punchouts.Given the Dodgers' 6-4 record throughout their last 10 games, expect them to continue their string of series wins.

Mexico and Canada have faced significant recent tension in their relations with the United States. But in their historic World Cup bid, the three countries promoted teamwork.

NEW YORK — It can’t be too easy to try to hype up a crowd that just watched the hometown team get absolutely decimated in the first half of an NBA Finals game. But that’s why you pay professionals like the Wu-Tang Clan, you know?After the final song of their excellent set, as Wu-Tang exited the floor at Madison Square Garden, Method Man said, “Knicks in five, what y’all talking about?”In the moment, that optimism seemed wildly misplaced. The New York Knicks had spent most of the first half on tilt, unmoored, bereft of composure and answers against a San Antonio Spurs team that was running them ragged.After days of talk about free-throw discrepancies and flagrant fouls that weren’t, the Garden came unglued after Karl-Anthony Towns picked up two fouls in the first 62 seconds of Game 4 — the second of which was initially ruled a foul on newly minted Manhattan nemesis Victor Wembanyama, only to be overturned into an offensive foul after a challenge by San Antonio head coach Mitch Johnson. The Knicks were coming apart at the seams, too, combusting in just about every way possible: meandering offensive possessions, unfocused defensive rotations, empty-gesture physicality that seemed to suggest that, yes, Wembanyama and the Spurs had indeed gotten into their heads.After giving up a Finals-record 14 first-half 3-pointers, missing eight free throws and logging as many turnovers as assists (seven), the Knicks went into intermission down by 27 points — the largest halftime deficit of any home team in NBA Finals history (excluding the Finals played in the 2020 COVID bubble).The lead, and the gravity pulling the Knicks down from the soaring heights of taking a 2-0 lead on the road toward a crushing 2-2 tie without home-court advantage, seemed insurmountable. But through Wu-Tang, all things are possible.“Had to give ’em a little Wu-Tang prayer, nahmean?” Ghostface Killah told Yahoo Sports.God must be pretty into Wu-Tang.What we witnessed in New York on Wednesday night was nothing short of the greatest comeback in NBA history.Oh, other teams have come back from larger deficits. The Utah Jazz hold the regular-season record, trailing by 36 before beating the Denver Nuggets in 1996. The L.A. Clippers have the playoff high-water mark, surging back from 31 down to knock off the Golden State Warriors in 2019. But this was Game 4 of the NBA Finals.This was the Knicks, after spending the last severaldays in vibe-shifthell, playing their worst basketball in months, watching their best chance to win a championship in three decades slip away. This was the Spurs, a bad-ass young team led by a once-in-a-lifetime game-changer whose time had evidently come, announcing their primacy and dominance by making its veteran opponent melt down and puke all over its shoes. This was history; when a De’Aaron Fox pull-up jumper pushed the lead to 29 a couple of minutes into the third quarter, it seemed like all that was left to decide was the final margin and just how early Mike Brown would decide to pull his starters.And against most teams, things probably would’ve played out that way. That’s the thing about the Knicks, though: They actually had done this before.Not from 29 down, granted. But finding a way to make the seemingly impossible happen? This team’s pretty familiar with that … and they discussed as much in the locker room at halftime.“I brought up experience,” Towns said. “I said last year, we were in this situation twogames in a row in Boston, and we found a way to get it done.”Did it against Cleveland in the Eastern Conference finals, too, coming back from 22 down — and that was in the fourth quarter.“We knew there was a lot of time,” Knicks head coach Mike Brown said.“When you do it once, you know you can do it again,” Knicks forward OG Anunoby said.The Knicks had their work cut out for them. They needed to do a better job of limiting dribble penetration, keeping both the Spurs’ three-headed monster of guards and their 7-foot-4 MVP candidate center out of the paint. They needed to find answers against San Antonio’s ball pressure, cross-matching and pre-switching by pushing the pace in transition and cranking up their tempo in the half-court, prioritizing snappier ball and player movement. They had to space the floor, trust each other, shoot with confidence and — after going 15-for-37 from the field and 4-for-12 from 3-point range in the first half — actually make some shots.And even if they did all that, given the size of their deficit and the run of play, they’d probably still need a little help.“The reality of it is — not just in basketball, not just in sports, but in life, too; I think you can all attest to this — you have to have a little luck in life,” Brown added. “You've got to have a little luck in sports.“But you can also make your luck, too.”The Knicks got the opening they were searching for when the Spurs’ red-hot shooting finally started to cool off — and, actually, careened all the way to frozen. San Antonio shot just 20% from the floor in the third quarter, with more turnovers (five) than made baskets (four) in the frame:That set the stage for an absolutely disastrous second half for the Spurs, who followed their scorching 76-point first half by scoring just 30 points on 8-for-39 shooting after intermission — one of the most devastating collapses in NBA postseason history.“Probably just our contests were better — just, like, 1% better,” Anunoby said. “Just a little bit better. Getting out faster and making sure every shot is contested, and then finishing possessions with rebounds. And then, running out, moving the ball, taking good shots, shooting open shots — not hesitating.”Neither Anunoby nor Jalen Brunson hesitated much in that third quarter, scoring or assisting on 22 of the Knicks’ 26 points to help shave a dozen points off the halftime deficit:That got New York within 15, 90-75, heading into the fourth quarter. After the 20-point turnarounds in Boston, after the fourth-quarter-and-OT barrage against Cleveland, and after coming back to win when trailing by 14 in Game 1 and 12 in Game 2 in San Antonio, that felt … manageable?“The last thing that we said to them [at halftime] was, ‘Let's cut it to around 15 to 17 going into the fourth, and if we do, we'll give ourselves a chance,’” Brown said.“We know, at the end of the day, the game is not over at halftime, you know?” said Knicks forward Josh Hart. “You just want to continue to chip. You don't look at it when you're down 29 [as], ‘We've got to win this game.’ You look at it when you're down 29 [as], ‘OK, let's get it to 20.’ There's three minutes left in the third quarter, we're down 18, you're thinking, ‘Let's get it to 10.’“And in the fourth quarter, you're like, ‘This is winning time. Anything can happen.’”Like, for example, Jose Alvarado can become a stone-cold friggin’ legend.“I know a lot of you guys can't, because you're in the media, and you've got to be neutral,” Brown said in his postgame press conference. “But I'm going to f*****g clap for Jose. Sorry, Mom.”Seeking an infusion of energy, speed and complementary ball-handling to allow Brunson to get off the ball, Brown turned to Alvarado, pairing his point guards in a look he’d gone to for all of 114 minutes this season. After playing 33 total minutes through the first three games of the Finals, Alvarado played 10 minutes in the fourth quarter of Game 4 alone, rewarding Brown’s faith by doing absolutely everything.“Jose was unbelievable tonight,” Brown said. “He changed the game.”He brought the ball up the floor and sprinted into sacrificial cuts. He swung the ball, set screens to spring Brunson loose and dragged Wembanyama out of the paint to open up the floor for New York to attack. He punched above his weight class on defense, came up with loose balls and knocked down huge shots, including one 3-pointer to get things started with just over nine minutes to go and another from the left slot to get the Knicks within four with just over three minutes remaining.“I'm not going to sugarcoat this: I was about to cry [after the game], not because — obviously, there is one more [win to go], but I'm at Madison Square Garden, end of the fourth quarter, playing with these guys, and we’re playing for something special,” Alvarado said. “I was just — I was just excited. It's really something I couldn't put into words. [...] It's crazy, 2026 Finals behind me. Just to be part of the journey is amazing. I appreciate, you know, Coach and everybody giving me my flowers, but this is what I worked hard for, to be in moments like this and shine with it.“So I'm glad it went our way today, and I’ll definitely remember this for the rest of my life.”Hart nearly had the kind of memories he’d give anything to forget.The Knicks’ ever-present energizer had two opportunities to help finish off the Spurs and came up empty on them both. First, after picking off an errant Fox pass near half-court, he had a runout for a layup or dunk that could’ve given the Knicks the lead … and just lost control, clanging it off the back rim. Then, after Brunson did put New York on top, the Knicks needed another stop to put the game away. They got it, with Fox missing a midrange pull-up. But Hart fell asleep on his box-out, allowing Stephon Castle to slide in along the baseline for an offensive rebound. Hart fouled him, sending him to the line to drain a pair of clutch free throws that put San Antonio back up by one with 30.3 seconds to go.“I missed that block-out at the end, Castle got the two free throws,” Hart said. “And [the shot] went up, and I wasn't in on that last play, so I'm sitting there just hoping my guys make a play [...] I've got a special shout-out for OG, man. Because he saved me — at least for this game — a lifetime of regret.”And, in the process, drew the Knicks within one win of redeeming decades full of regrets. From the fans who’ve lived and died with this team since 1973, who’d never been this close to glory. From the “once a Knick, always a Knick” alumni who flock to these games, home or road, to live vicariously through this miraculous dream. From everyone in that locker room who’d fallen short, time and again; from everyone who’d loved this franchise that has so often seemed like it would never love them back.“OG f*****g Anunoby,” a beatific Ben Stiller said in the postgame media room.“Right hand of God,” Towns beamed.“That has to be the most iconic shot in the history of New York basketball,” Brown said.“It feels cool,” Anunoby said. “I mean, everyone's pretty excited. I'm excited, too.”Yeah, OG. Everyone is pretty excited. The game of your life just delivered the most unexpected win in franchise history and put the New York Knicks — for decades, a laughingstock; for decades, an also-ran; for decades, “not a model of intelligent management” — 48 minutes away from the promised land.When the final buzzer sounded, after Towns appeared to tip the inbounds pass that led to the Spurs not getting up a potential game-winning shot, nobody in the stands at Madison Square Garden started moving toward the exit. They just stood — and leaped, and screamed, and hugged, and high-fived, and cried — utterly enraptured. Of course they didn’t leave. Who the hell would want to leave a moment like this?“You could feel the abundance of joy at one time, from everyone at one time — the collective joy that came out of everybody for that one moment,” Towns said. “To hear the buzzer going off and not to see the ball go in the basket, I think we all felt something — like, that emotion that was special. It's something that … MSG hasn't had that kind of moment in a long time.”And now, the Knicks head to San Antonio, in pursuit of another moment Knicks fans haven’t had in a long time. If they’re looking for something to listen to as they hit the road … maybe pull up “Enter the 36 Chambers.” You know, just for good luck.

The location for Georgia-Florida rivalry football game is changing this year, but the usual kickoff time won’t.The World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party game on Oct. 31 will kick off once again at 3:30 p.m. and air live on Channel 2. This year’s game will be played in Atlanta with the Jacksonville Jaguars stadium undergoing a massive renovation project. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]Georgia also learned the kickoff windows for eight other games. Most notably, the Oct. 10 road game against Alabama will be in primetime slot.2026 GEORGIA FOOTBALL SCHEDULE9/5: Tennessee State, 3 p.m. 9/12: Western Kentucky, 12:45 p.m. 9/19: @ Arkansas, 12 p.m. (ABC)9/26: Oklahoma, Flex (3:30-4:30 p.m. or 6-8 p.m. kickoff window)10/3: Vanderbilt, Early10/10: @ Alabama, Night (6-8 p.m. kickoff window)10/17: Auburn, Afternoon10/24: BYE WEEK10/31: Florida, 3:30 p.m. (ABC)11/7: @ Ole Miss, Flex (3:30-4:30 p.m. or 6-8 p.m. kickoff window)11/14: Missouri, Flex (3:30-4:30 p.m. or 6-8 p.m. kickoff window)11/21: @ South Carolina, Flex (3:30-4:30 p.m. or 6-8 p.m. kickoff window)11/28: Georgia Tech, Flex (3:30-4:30 p.m. or 6-8 p.m. kickoff window)[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

[BBC]Celtic have opened talks with the agent of Elias Filet and are seen as favourites to win a keenly contested race to sign the striker from Swiss second-tier club FC Aarau. (TeamTalk)Celtic have yet to reach an agreement with key members of Martin O'Neill's backroom team despite the interim boss agreeing to become the permanent manager on a one-year deal. (The Herald)Bryan Reynolds is one of the right-backs Rangers are interested in, but no bid has been tabled for the USA international, who plays for Westerlo in Belgium. (Daily Record - subscription required)Dundee United and St Mirren are interested in 25-year-old St Johnstone goalkeeper Ross Sinclair, who has been offered a new deal at at McDiarmid Park. (Daily Record - subscription required)Kilmarnock and St Mirren are keen on a loan deal for Rangers midfielder Calum Adamson after the 18-year-old impressed at Alloa Athletic last season. (Daily Record)Aberdeen have lined up a deal for Toyosi Olusanya but are waiting to discover if Houston Dynamo will trigger the option to extend the striker's deal by another year. (Aberdeen Live)Wednesday's Scottish gossipThursday's English and European gossipBlau-Weiss Linz's sporting director Christoph Schosswender says his club spent the entire season trying to convince new Aberdeen midfielder Alexander Briedl to sign a new contract. (Press & Journal)Former Ibrox defender Richard Foster reckons Lawrence Shankland is the perfect start when it comes to building more of a Scottish identity at Rangers - with Dundee's Luke Graham next in line to join. (Daily Record)Manchester United legend Roy Keane has described Scotland hero John McGinn as looking like a "pub player" when he has poor games. (Scottish Sun) Ayr United chairman David Smith and vice-chairman Fraser MacIntyre are flying themselves to the World Cup to watch Scotland on a tiny one-propeller private plane. (Scottish Sun)The back page of Thursday's Courier [BBC]

Specialists don’t run the triple option despite the triple option being special.5-STAR KICKER IS IRISHNotre Dame addressed last season’s kicking issues with the transfer portal, but they are still out here recruiting the hell out of the high school ranks. Micah Drescher just arrived on campus as a freshman, but now the Irish just got a commitment from 5-Star Kicker, Owen Davies.Davies gets his 5-Star ranking from the prestigious Kohls Kicking organization, and is the first commitment for Notre Dame’s 2028 class.✅ Committed // @NDFootballThe No. 2 ranked kicker in America for the #KohlsKicking Class of 2028, Owen Davies, has committed to Notre Dame.➡️ Prospect Eval & Video: https://t.co/zXDblcnagu#GoIrishpic.twitter.com/v6Nj51X5Pw— Kohl's Kicking Camps (@KohlsKicking) June 11, 2026BRIAN KELLY TO THE RESCUEFormer Notre Dame head coach, Brian Kelly, has some time on his hands after being fired by the LSU Tigers. So… he’s unofficially going to go help out the Memphis Tigers — officially.🚨 STAFF CHANGE 🚨Former Notre Dame & LSU head coach Brian Kelly will serve as an unofficial consultant for Memphis head coach Charles Huff! Kelly brings decades of head coaching experience to the program. 👀 pic.twitter.com/PhwbXP751Q— Tri-Star Network (@TriStarNetwork) June 11, 2026MICHIGAN SUCKS FOREVERYes, Midchigan is going to be a thing here at OFD. Can’t debunk the chart. https://t.co/x4I930ygx1pic.twitter.com/7sSIrgjmDO— Justin Spiro (@DarkoStateNews) June 9, 2026NOTRE DAME FANS (AND OTHER PEOPLE)The Notre Dame football fanbase is large and well spread out all over the country (and the world). But what’s their presence on X like? Well… the Irish are up there (I guess). The most followed College Football team pages on X/Twitter 📈 pic.twitter.com/696yJSV4ir— College Football Report (@CFBReport) June 11, 2026

As the 48 teams gradually arrived in North America, every image further setting a grand stage, a thought struck managers like Thomas Tuchel and Carlo Ancelotti.They were right to make the sheer scale of this World Cup more of a priority in planning. “United 2026” – as it is officially known – is enormous in every sense, from size to serious issues. That only deepens the distinctive challenge a World Cup poses, and only elevates the meaning of victory.A team can be brilliant and do everything possible to gear up for a four-year cycle over the long term, but the lifting of that great trophy really comes down to having everything – form, spirit, mood, fitness, tactics – just right for five weeks in one summer.It’s really about a moment in time, and one that makes you immortal, although this time in a far greater space.If the classic line is that people measure their lives in World Cups, this one is so immense it’s almost impossible to quantify.That could lead to a few other predictable lines about an American World Cup: that it was always going to be super-sized, that size will matter, that more may be less.The most immediate numbers, at least, do illustrate this. This World Cup involves: the most ever teams, at 48; the most ever hosts, at three; the most ever venues, at 16; and the greatest ever distance between venues, at 4,780km, with all of this adding up to unprecedented astronomical cost for fans and even federations.The avaricious ticket pricinghad been the dominant controversy in a largely shambolic build-up for Fifa, but has since been overtaken by the conflict with Iran and connected visa scandals.So much for this World Cup being a return to the familiar after the highly politicised police-state sportswashing spectacles of Russia and Qatar.It has instead thrown up more unprecedented issues than ever before – another one for the scales; another illustration of bloated indulgence. Such issues have only been added to by another more familiar element, which is the promise of record revenue at $14bn.And yet one of the great uncertainties about this World Cup, which is causing nervousness at the top of Fifa, is whether all this will mean there is nothing like the record attendances of USA ‘94.The avaricious ticket pricing has been the main controversy in the build-up to the World Cup (AFP/Getty)That competition will constantly offer a mirror to this one, especially when the memories remain so vivid due to its bright lights – in football and look.There are instead so many shades to 2026, and a real darkness. For all Gianni Infantino’s vapid claims about the World Cup uniting the world, we here have a host at war with a participating nation for the first time.The Fifa president’s own relationship with Donald Trump, meanwhile, weighs over the entire competition, especially with how just one decision from the US president has the potential to cause chaos.Trump’s putative lack of decisions have already created enough chaos, since Fifa has received almost no help on anything it actually needs. So we have the farce of a long-vetted referee denied entry, and Iran forced into constrained travel around their games.That darkness has also served to obscure otherwise uplifting elements of this World Cup, like the return to perhaps the competition’s most historic stadium: the Azteca in Mexico City.This tournament represents a host (USA) at war with a participating nation (Iran, pictured) for the first time (AFP/Getty)It was the arena where Pele and Diego Maradona created their most lasting images. Now, 40 years after the “Hand of God” and the goal of the century, it isn’t considered worthy to host games after the last 16.Canada has, meanwhile, been the forgotten host, and even the last games staged there and in Mexico will be overshadowed by the 250th anniversary of US independence – all amid a stilted embrace with the global game.We will at least have a sense of the atmosphere by then, and whether this World Cup’s many issues can really allow that sense of international festival around the stadiums.And all of this is why size is so much more than a defining detail.The expansion affects what the World Cup is – and how it will go.That is true of the most elemental experience of a tournament: a child’s.THE SIZE OF THE 2026 WORLD CUPMost ever teams: 48 Most ever hosts: 3Most ever venues: 16 Greatest-ever distance between venues: 4,780km Record revenue estimation: $14bnPerhaps appropriately for a competition held in the commercial capital of the world, it is possible to paraphrase one of its culture’s most famous depictions of marketing. The World Cup isn’t just a football competition, as Mad Men’s Don Draper might have said; it’s a fountain of nostalgia. “It takes us to a place where we ache to go again” – to childhood memories.The joy of that is memorising the groups, knowing exactly what teams are where and what games are when. It is actually no trivial thing that this World Cup is far too big to even do that, long before you get to Group L.Similarly, there are almost too many games, and that’s in one day, as much as in the tournament’s total of 104. It’s impossible to take it all in, to consume every storyline. United 2026 instead has just a wall of football, where more very much means less.The World Cup experience is directly diluted.That isn’t to discount the exhilaration that debutants like Curacao, Jordan and Uzbekistan will feel, or the release Haiti, Democratic Republic of Congo or Iraq will enjoy, but there is a serious point amid that romance.This World Cup articulates the disconcerting sense of a sport becoming so big you can’t get a feel for it, of a game being taken away from its community, of an elitist event where parts continue to be sold off without anyone who actually cares able to do anything about it.Welcome to the “Trumpification” of Fifa.The expansion may also dictate this World Cup as much as dilute it. A number like 48 just isn’t right for the tournament, because it doesn’t evenly split into an eventual two. That needlessly brings back distorting third-place group qualifiers, a convolution that Infantino was forced into after he somehow realised four-team groups were exciting as late as Qatar 2022. United 2026 was initially supposed to have groups of three.Donald Trump holds the World Cup trophy in the Oval Office last summer (AFP/Getty)And yet it speaks to so many of these wider themes that Infantino realised it was more exciting, but evidently didn’t understand this was because of the competitive intensity that came from two going through out of four, as well as a 32-team tournament just creating the right balance between quality and novelty.The man overseeing all of this didn’t truly get the game he was overseeing.It could yet create results that go against World Cup logic, too.As an example, Argentina have been talked up as potentially winning again due to the 2022 World Cup victory coming in a run of three successive trophies. They are the only team to do that outside Spain 2008-12, but that also gives them the jaded feel of Spain 2014. Most of the team is still the same, and they won’t have the same lightning-in-a-bottle energy of 2022.These are ingredients that leave champions ripe for a classic first-round exit… except the stage is so forgiving. Argentina may go into their last group game badly needing a win, but that comes against Jordan. The debutants are one of five sides considered forgiving opposition, and the presence of any one in a group gives the other three in it a huge advantage in this system.One win and you’re likely through.To go with that expanded schedule, since it takes eight games to win it rather than seven, this is the first major tournament happening after two seasons of expanded European football. More, more, more.Lionel Messi will lead title contenders Argentina at this summer's World Cup (Reuters)Players, especially the quantity in the major teams, are exhausted.That could restore some romance by favouring the “dark horses” like Japan, Ecuador, Morocco, Norway, Austria and Senegal.Except, just like with Iran’s constraints, Senegal has already faced the disadvantage of being subjected to a humiliating tarmac security search.It is just one of many ways the non-football elements shape the football.The favourites, Spain, almost illustrate the difficulty of getting your head around this as well as the bodies.The European champions have the best team at the tournament, but have also had the most fitness issues and major injuries.The biggest of those is Lamine Yamal. He may be the mere 18-year-old anticipated to crown his rise to the best player in the world by seizing this tournament, but he’s also hoping to recover from a hamstring injury for the first game.Lamine Yamal is hoping to recover from a hamstring injury for Spain’s first game (Reuters)That can nevertheless work both ways, especially in a World Cup this long. Spain and Yamal might be stiff at the start, but then evolve into the best possible condition for the most important stages.That is exactly what happened with Andres Iniesta in 2010. Their possession game may also prove decisive in a tournament that is going to be dictated by punishingly hot conditions. In the same way that United 2026 has more unprecedented controversies, it also has more variables.Tuchel is one of many coaches who have been deeply considering how to work around all this.France, who have faced a lot of concerns about the Didier Deschamps era going stale, may now find his stultifying medium block suits the conditions.They do have the best array of attacking stars just waiting to be released, with Kylian Mbappe badly needing a big World Cup.France captain Kylian Mbappe needs a big World Cup (Reuters)England are up there, especially with the differential of a goalscorer like Harry Kane. They may not have a perfect squad, but no one does.That points to how this World Cup is nowhere near as strong a field as in 1998, where at least eight teams looked truly elite. The offset is that this “second tier” of outsiders is stronger than ever, offering the potential for something else a World Cup has never had: a winner like a Denmark 1992 or Greece 2004.That's where the competition comes down to more elemental qualities, the glorious intangibles, the very emotion the trophy inspires.For all that everything about a World Cup changes, the meaning doesn’t.It will still offer countries some of the greatest days in their national histories, with the very awareness of this global importance affording it a cultural significance beyond anything else in the planet’s history.Harry Kane leads England at his third World Cup (PA)This is the emotional pinnacle, the peak of sport because the massif is so wide. It can be seen in the expressions of players, and even the great trophy itself. Those two arms “stretching out to receive the world... at the stirring moment of victory” – in the words of designer Silvio Gazzinaga – are representative of what everyone in football is reaching for.Hence Infantino’s desperation for this to start amid so much controversy. The football still perseveres. The spirit perseveres. The competition is still, at its core, a global cultural good, no matter how it’s used.As Maradona once said, “the ball never stains”. The World Cup retains a purity.Duly, even a 48-team competition will evolve – as the writer Duncan Hamilton put it – “like a theatrical play”. While the numbers are gradually winnowed to two and then one, the drama, emotion and suspense only become more intense. Such feelings enrich the moments that really create World Cup legacies, but they are ultimately fostered by narrative, by stories.This tournament has so many, even if it does not have many great teams.Can Brazil somehow rise to that level under Ancelotti, and end a 24-year wait in the way they did for the last World Cup in the USA? Can a new band of successful club coaches show their acumen by showing everyone else what’s what, or will the different contours of international football embarrass them?Can Carlo Ancelotti and Vinicius Jr guide Brazil to a first World Cup in 24 years? (Getty)Will a surprisingly deep elder generation led by Leo Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo finally cede ground to a new era of Yamal, Jamal Musiala and Erling Haaland, or will a slower tournament allow for those who can still produce individual moments?Can any of the hosts make an impression? Can Mauricio Pochettino avoid a furious social media post from Trump? Can Canada do “a Korea 2002”, in the way they are privately talking about? Can Mexico finally get past a quarter-final?Can Germany finally get past a group stage again, to prove maybe the darkest horse of all? Can the fancied Netherlands at last win it after three lost finals?Can there be a new name on the trophy?Can England finally lift this trophy amid all of the symbolism connected to 1966, given that was the old Jules Rimet? Amid all of the challenges, Tuchel and his players should perhaps be mindful of something that Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said at the draw back in December.“Every day you are a world champion you feel younger.”The sentiment, and the aspiration, may never be more important amid a World Cup so exhausting in so many senses. It’s an achievement of scale beyond anything else.

Manchester United set to miss out on Nathaniel Brown as Bayern Munich close in on a dealManchester United are on the verge of missing out on Nathaniel Brown, with Bayern Munich close to reaching an agreement for the Frankfurt defender. The 22-year-old German international had been linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer, as United look to strengthen their options at left-back for Michael Carrick. United are seeking cover for Luke Shaw, and Brown emerged as a target after a standout breakthrough season, recording four goals and four assists in the Bundesliga to be named Frankfurt’s Player of the Season. As a result, Frankfurt placed a €65 million price tag on Brown, making a move by United unlikely and leaving Bayern Munich with a clear path. The Bundesliga champions have now made a major breakthrough in negotiations with Frankfurt sporting director Markus Krosche.Bayern have acted quickly to finalise the deal before the upcoming World Cup in North America, where Brown is expected to play a key role for Julian Nagelsmann’s side. The defender has already agreed personal terms on a long-term contract at the Allianz Arena, motivated by a desire to develop under Vincent Kompany. Brown’s imminent arrival in Munich will raise questions about the future of Alphonso Davies, who has struggled with injuries over the past 18 months. Meanwhile, Manchester United must now turn to alternative targets on their left-back shortlist. While missing out on Brown’s talent is a disappointment for the INEOS hierarchy, United remain committed to strict fiscal discipline and will look elsewhere for defensive cover. Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall remains a target, and United are also believed to have an interest in Marc Cucurella

CHOFU, JAPAN - DECEMBER 15: Xavi of Barcelona looks on during the Andres Iniesta Testimonial 'El Clasico' In Tokyo at Ajinomoto Stadium on December 15, 2024 in Chofu, Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Masashi Hara/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona reportedly told Xavi Hernandez he was “not welcome” at the club’s most recent ‘Legends’ game following an explosive interview he gave during the club’s presidential election campaign.Xavi has featured in Barca Legends games since hanging up his boots but was conspicuous by his absence in the recent match in Seoul.Reports from Diario AS and Catalunya Radio claim that Xavi was left out on purpose and and was informed he was not welcome.Barca have become unhappy after Xavi gave an explosive interview to La Vanguardia during the recent election campaign and was critical of Alejandro Echevarría.“After leaving, I decided not to make any statements out of respect for Barça. People know how much I love the club, my whole family are Barça fans…,” he said. “I feel the need to explain myself; it’s inside me, and I need to clarify it.”That’s how this Barça works, it’s practically run by Alejandro Echevarría. He was someone with whom I had a close, friendly relationship, and that’s why his departure from Barça is perhaps the biggest disappointment. He completely let me down.”Echevarría plays a key role in squad selection for the Legends games and has reportedly vetoed Xavi’s involvement for the time being. The ban is not expected to be permanent but Barca want some time to pass before the situation is resolved.

OG Anunoby of the New York Knicks blocks De'Aaron Fox of the San Antonio Spurs in the closing seconds of Wednesday night’s Game 4 of the NBA finals.Photograph: Michael Gonzales/NBAE/Getty ImagesFor nearly 47 minutes, the San Antonio Spurs looked poised to leave Madison Square Garden with the NBA finals level at two games apiece.They’d led by 81-52 in the third quarter, brought a feral Madison Square Garden crowd to heel and put themselves on the verge of reclaiming home-court advantage after having dropped the first two games at home. Even as the Knicks mounted a furious second-half fightback, the Spurs still appeared to have one final lifeline.Related: Knicks beat Spurs with largest NBA finals comeback to move to brink of first title since 1973Then came a decision that could haunt San Antonio for years if the Knicks go on to end their 53-year championship drought.The Spurs led 106-105 with less than 15 seconds remaining Wednesday night when Jalen Brunson’s floating bank shot ricocheted into the backcourt. The loose ball bounced toward De’Aaron Fox, who sprinted after it and found himself racing toward the basket with only a trailing OG Anunoby between him and what looked like a game-clinching score.Instead of pulling the ball out and forcing New York to foul, Fox attacked the rim. But Anunoby chased him down and blocked the lay-up attempt.Seconds later, the Knicks had the ball back. Brunson missed a 31-footer off the front of the rim, but Anunoby soared in from the top of the key and tipped home the winner with 1.2 seconds remaining, completing an improbable 107-106 victory and the largest comeback in NBA finals history.Fox did not shy away from explaining his thought process afterward.“Haven’t scored. Try to get a lay-up, get up three. Force them to need a three,” Fox said. “OG made a good block.”Asked why he went for the basket rather than dribbling out the clock and forcing a foul, the ninth-year point guard was to the point.“I just thought I’d be able to outrun them. That’s it.”The explanation did little to quell the criticism.On TNT’s post-game show, Charles Barkley delivered a verdict that quickly spread across social media and sports television.“That was a dumbass play,” Barkley said. “He did not have to shoot that ball.”The blunt assessment reflected the reaction around the basketball world. With the Spurs clinging to a one-point lead, Fox had safer options available. He could have retreated from pressure and waited to be fouled, shaving precious seconds off the clock. He could have used San Antonio’s final timeout. Instead, he chose the most aggressive path – a gamble Anunoby made him pay dearly for.Of course, reducing the collapse to a single possession would let the Spurs off too easily. The final mistake merely capped a spectacular unraveling that had begun long before Fox found himself alone in the open floor. San Antonio scored 76 points in the first half but just 30 after half-time. The crisp ball movement and long-distance sharpshooting that had carved apart New York’s defense evaporated as the Knicks chipped away at the deficit.“Obviously let that get away, being up [29 points],” Fox said. “Got away from doing the things that got us up and put ourselves in that position.”“I think we played a little slower,” he added. “The ball wasn’t moving the same way that it did in the second half like it did in the first half. We didn’t get a flow on the offensive end in the second half.”Spurs coach Mitch Johnson saw the same thing.“We got away from what got us the 76 points in the first half,” Johnson said. “Then you saw at times the aggressiveness and just conviction that we played with early on dissipate a little bit. They made some shots. That’s where you felt the momentum a little bit. We just needed few more tough-minded plays to finish the job.”He added: “To put as much good work into that first half as we did, get the lead that we had and not finish the job, is disappointing to say the least.”Wembanyama said he was unable to see Fox’s fateful layup attempt after tumblind to the floor during the play, but he offered a curt appraisal of the Spurs’ second-half performance.“We clearly weren’t the most hungry in the second half,” Wembanyama said. “Stopped moving the ball. Stopped executing.”That reality may ultimately be what stings most for San Antonio. Fox’s layup attempt did not create the collapse. The Spurs had already let a 29-point lead fritter away by then. What the play did was quash their last chance to survive it.“Going down 3-1 is obviously very different,” Fox said. “But we feel like we have a team to be able to come back from this.”Two minutes earlier, the Spurs were staring at a tied series with momentum to burn and a restored clear path to a championship. One miscue later, they were left to reckon with a reality that had seemed impossible minutes earlier.

The New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs are facing off for the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy. It’s a rematch of the 1999 NBA Finals. The Knicks are searching for their first NBA title since 1973. They knocked out the Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers and Cleveland Cavaliers to win the Eastern Conference.The Spurs last won NBA title in 2014. San Antonio battled Portland Trailblazers, Minnesota Timberwolves and Oklahoma City Thunder to win the Western Conference. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]Once again, there are Georgia connections to the NBA Finals. Newton High School alum Stephon Castle and Peachtree Ridge High School alum Devin Vassell play for the Spurs. Former Georgia Tech standout Jose Alvarado plays for the Knicks. Channel 2 will be your home for EVERY GAME of the 2026 NBA Finals. Here is the complete schedule of games.NBA FINALS TV SCHEDULEGame 1: Knicks win, 105-95Game 2: Knicks win, 105-104Game 3: Spurs win, 115-111Game 4: Knicks win, 107-106Game 5: Knicks at Spurs, Saturday, June 13 at 8:30 p.m., ABCGame 6*: Spurs at Knicks, Tuesday, June 16 at 8:30 p.m., ABCGame 7*: Knicks at Spurs, Friday, June 19 at 8:30 p.m., ABC*If necessary[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

Mahomes has won the Super Bowl three times with the Kansas City Chiefs [Getty Images]Patrick Mahomes is set to become the first NFL player to have a contract worth more than $500m after agreeing a new deal with the Kansas City Chiefs.The 30-year-old quarterback, who has guided the Chiefs to five Super Bowls, winning three, has agreed to a two-year extension, which will take his guaranteed earnings to $504.75m and tie him to the franchise until 2033.His previous 10-year deal was reportedly worth $450m, with an additional $50m available in incentives.According to reports, Mahomes' contract will have an average annual value of $64m a year from 2027. It eclipses the $60m (£46m) a year deal agreed in 2024 between the Dallas Cowboys and quarterback Dak Prescott, which made him the highest-paid player in NFL history."I'm just so excited to be here for life and to be a part of Chiefs kingdom for even longer," said Mahomes. "We have so much more to do. Let's go out and do it. Let's go win some more."Mahomes tore the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee in December last year as the Chiefs missed out on the NFL play-offs for the first time since the 2014 season.He led the Chiefs to the Super Bowl titles in 2020, 2023, and 2024 and they were stopped from becoming the first team to win three in a row by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2025."Over the past decade Patrick has become one of the most iconic, beloved sports figures of all-time," said Chiefs chief executive Clark Hunt. "He has helped lead our franchise to five Super Bowl appearances and three championships, he has been instrumental in shaping the Chiefs brand and putting Kansas City on the world stage, and on top of it all he has been an outstanding role model in the community. "Patrick is a generational talent and an elite human being, and I'm so excited he will continue to lead our team into the future."NFL fixtures and resultsGet American Football news sent straight to your phone

BEDMINSTER – Greg Schiano was hired back in December of 2019 to coach the Rutgers football team and restore pride in the program.But because of a lack of support that existed within the athletic department, there’s one major responsibility that Schiano couldn’t place his full focus on.Coaching the team.Those days are over.Once new Rutgers president William Tate and athletics director Keli Zinn came onboard, they assumed much of the fundraising responsibility that had fallen squarely on the shoulders of Schiano and his top lieutenants, especially during the offseason.And in the NIL era, fundraising requires countless hours of outreach and relationship building – hours that precluded Schiano from placing his full attention on issues surrounding his team.“When I took the job, there was no such thing as NIL,” Schiano said Monday at his annual charity golf outing at Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club. “And then, all of a sudden, that became a very big thing. For whatever reason, we weren't set up to do it the way other schools were.“So we did it ourselves. (Chief of Staff Kevin MacConnell) and myself, we kind of just did our own fundraising. And that's hard to do. It takes so much time. And it takes time away from the thing that I'm actually hired to do, and that's recruit and develop young men to win football games.”Zinn and her new administration have made it the top priority to fundraise and develop corporate sponsorships, infusing the entire department, including Rutgers football, with resources it had never had before – certainly not to the level of most of its Big Ten peers.Schiano’s ability to retain star wide receiver KJ Duff provided all the evidence needed to show things are different.But previously Schiano was forced to lead those efforts.“When President Tate and Keli came in, they very quickly analyzed what was going on and they said, ‘Look, you don't need to do that anymore. You coach the team, and we'll handle that stuff,’” Schiano said. “And that's a heaven sent. Now, this has been the first offseason that I actually didn't have to do that stuff. And it's been really beneficial.”To be clear, Schiano isn’t completely free of fundraising responsibilities – or other issues that the modern era of college football has brought.But he’s already seeing the impact of having an administration that’s willingly taken so much of that off his plate – actually coaching the team can now be his top focus.“There's always stuff to do,” Schiano said. “But I've been really able to focus on those things that I think are going to help us not only have a better football team, but have a better football program.”This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Rutgers football: Greg Schiano seeing results of new administration

The Major Arena Soccer League is coming to Ocean City, Maryland this fall, as the indoor soccer league recently announced that they were adding a new Ocean City-based team.Beachtown FC will be the new team in the MASL2, and Ocean City's new squad will embark on its first campaign during the 2026-27 season. Beachtown FC will be the second team on Maryland's Eastern Shore added to the MASL2 in recent years, as the Salisbury Steaks were also recently added to the league in 2023. Beachtown FC will be owned by the Dawson family, which also owns MASL's FC Baltimore 1729 team.“After an amazing first year in Baltimore with our FC Baltimore 1729 club, it was really a no-brainer to expand with an additional professional franchise in the Ocean City and Delaware beaches region. My family and I have been so fortunate to have received so much support in this region with our other businesses that we own in Rehoboth Beach and Ocean City, and we are proud of our new endeavor," Ron Dawson, owner of Beachtown FC, said in a statement. “We are extremely excited to be bringing the first professional franchise to the Maryland/Delaware beaches region,” he added. “There are so many tremendous fans from the lower Delaware and Maryland beaches, including Rehoboth Beach through Ocean City. Now they will have a local team at the beach to support.”MASL 2 commissioner Chris Economides lauded Dawson and his family for the passion and commitment shown when they launched their first club, FC Baltimore 1729.“It was in many ways a very challenging year for him, but he handled it all with class andprofessionalism and a dedication to the sport and his players that was a testament to his philosophy and his commitment to be as good an owner as he can possibly be,” Economides said in a statement.“Beachtown FC will be in very good hands, and now Ron and his family will do everything the right way and help that community embrace the Major Arena Soccer League family.”The league will be celebrating its 10th anniversary this fall, as Beachtown FC joins the Eastern Division that will include United Elite Krajisnik, FC Baltimore 1729, Spice City FC and the Harrisburg Heat. More: Vote for the EZ Cash of Delaware, Inc. Bayside South Team's of the 2025-26 seasonMore: Greatest women's basketball players from the state of Maryland? You decide.This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Major Arena League Soccer adds Ocean City, Maryland team Beachtown FC

Longtime Georgia baseball fans know about Omaha.The Bulldogs have played there in the College World Series six times previously, but this is the first time since 2008. So this will be the first trip there since a well-known off the field competition began.It’s the “Rocco’s Jello Shot Challenge,” which began in 2019 at Rocco’s Pizza and Cantina, located at 1302 Mike Fahey Street. The fanbases of the eight CWS teams compete to see who can consume the most Jello Shots during the tournament.A whiteboard keeps tab of how many shots fans of each time buy.WHO'S THAT COMING DOWN THE TRACK! Finally @BaseballUGA is back in Omaha! Where do they fall in the hierarchy of SEC baseball fans? What will their shot total end up at? #roadtoroccospic.twitter.com/FD8tfknQxp— CWS Jello Shot Challenge (@CWSShotBoard) June 7, 2026It looks like there’s no chance of a “Sour Power,” Georgia themed shot for the Bulldogs’ favorite candy from Buc-ees.“This year, to celebrate America's 250th birthday and America's Pastime, Rocco's Jello Shots will be Red, White, and Blue,” the Jello Shot Challenge’s X account, with nearly 59,000 followers, posted on Tuesday. “While the teams may be wearing different colors on the field, we should always remember we are all on the same team. Cheers to Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Jello!”LSU fans bought 68,888 shots in 2023 when Georgia coach Wes Johnson was the Tigers’ pitching coach. LSU won again last year with 52,390.Hurrdat Sports, a media, marketing, and entertainment group from Omaha, posted “unofficial odds,” for this year’s Jello Shot Challenge on X.It has Georgia as the fourth best odds to win behind West Virginia, Ole Miss and Alabama. Texas had the fifth best odds followed by Oklahoma, North Carolina and Troy.This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Georgia baseball fans will learn firsthand about Jello Shot Challenge

Next up for spring all-area series voting is girls soccer.Below are the 2026 Athens high school all-area girls soccer players, which were hand selected by the coaches. Cast a vote for who you think deserves the ultimate title of "Girls Soccer Player of the Year."The poll will be open until Thursday, June 18, at 5 p.m.Spring all-area series | Top 2026 Athens-area high school girls soccer playersAthens all-area high school girls soccer player of the year pollThis article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Vote for Athens all-area high school girls soccer player of the year

Who was the top baseball player in Franklin and Fulton counties this season? It's up to you.We created our list of the top 12 players. Now it's your turn. Vote in our online poll through noon on Thursday, June 18.The poll is below the list of nominees. Can't see the poll? Refresh your browser.State title bound | Greencastle-Antrim baseball seals semifinals comeback in PIAA matchup'Horrendous feeling' | District 5 rules to forfeit Southern Fulton's seasonFranklin/Fulton 2026 baseball Player of the Year nomineesAvery Horst, Greencastle-Antrim: Horst’s .407 average, nine doubles and 33 RBIs earned him first-team All-Mid Penn Colonial Division honors, his biggest contribution this season may have been his RBI single that started the Blue Devils’ three-run, seventh-inning rally that beat Pittston Area in the state quarterfinals.Ryan Jenkins, Waynesboro: The Indians’ leading hitter was one of three players from the team picked first team All-Mid-Penn Colonial Division. He hit .476 (30-for-63) with four home runs, five doubles, 33 RBIs and 28 runs scored. John Kahl, Waynesboro: Kahl had a dominant senior season on the mound for the Indians, going 9-1 with a 2.48 ERA. He struck out 68 batters in 62 innings and only walked 12. Ryder Linn, Greencastle-Antrim: The Blue Devils couldn’t have made the 5A state championship game without Linn’s arm. The junior went 8-1 this season with a 1.74 ERA. He struck out 49 in 48 ⅓ innings.Brady Maciejewski, Shippensburg: The senior was the bright spot for the Greyhounds this season, hitting .421 (24-for-57) with a home run, 16 RBIs and 12 runs scored. Kaden Marpoe, McConnellsburg: The junior led the Spartans to 14 wins with his .339 average (20-59). He homered twice, had eight doubles and drove in 17 runs. On the mound, he went 4-2 with a 2.12 ERA, striking out 48 in 49 innings. Ryne Mills, Chambersburg: At the plate and on the mound, Mills was a key piece to the Trojans putting together their best season in years. He hit .277 (23-for-83) with two home runs, five doubles and 10 RBIs. Pitching, he was 10-0 with a 1.24 ERA, striking out 65 in 73 innings.Rylan Nichols, Waynesboro: The junior was another big bat for the Indians a big part of their 17-win season. He hit.426 (29-for-68) five home runs, six doubles and 30 RBIs. Cam Rakaczewski, Greencastle-Antrim: In his sophomore season, he hit .462 (36-for-78) with a home run, 11 doubles, two triples, 34 RBIs, 38 runs scored and 17 stolen bases. In the Blue Devils’ state semifinal win over West Chester Rustin, he went 4-for-5 with a home run and two RBIs, and was the winning pitcher, throwing 4 ⅔ shutout innings of relief with seven strikeouts.Keaton Shands, Shalom Christian: The senior was an offensive leader for the Flames hitting .396 (19-for-48). He showed some pop in his bat, hitting three home runs and a pair of doubles, driving in 11 runs. Brady Truett, Chambersburg: The junior was the leading hitter for an 18-win Trojans team that came within an eyelash of making the 6A state semifinals. He hit .379 (25-for-66) with a pair of home runs, four doubles and 16 RBIs. On the mound he was 4-2 with a 1.19 ERA. Drake Wenger, Shalom Christian: Wenger mixed power and speed to become a dynamic offensive weapon in his senior year. He hit .361 (22-for-61) with a pair of home runs, eight doubles and 10 RBIs. He also scored 19 runs and stole 14 bases.

Wolves have sacked head coach Rob Edwards after just seven months in charge in which the club were relegated to the Championship. Edwards was brought in following the sacking of Vitor Pereira with the knowledge that the Molineux outfit were likely to be relegated and would need to rebuild in the second tier. He won just five of his 30 games in charge of the side since replacing Pereira in November as Wolves finished bottom of the league.He left promotion-chasing Middlesbrough, who were top of the Championship at the time, with Wolves paying them £4m for the 43-year-old.Edwards played a key role in the signings of free agent Kieran Trippier from Newcastle and Raul Jimenez from Fulham, with the intention of rebuilding this season, but will now not oversee that project. Former Gil Vicente head coach Cesar Peixoto, who has only managed in Portugal, has been linked with the job. More follows

Barcelona block Xavi from playing in Legends matches after election falloutFormer manager Xavi Hernandez’s relationship with Barcelona appears to have taken another uncomfortable turn following a series of strained incidents.According to journalist Javier Miguel on AS, the Catalan club has blocked their midfield icon from playing for Barca Legends.Xavi had reportedly asked to take part in the final two matches with the Legends team, but that request has been denied.The decision is said to be linked to Xavi’s stance during the recent Barcelona elections, when he criticised Laporta’s board and called out Alejandro Echevarria.Xavi has been told that he is not welcome for now, but it is said that Barcelona see this as a temporary situation and an issue that can be resolved over time.Does not show Barcelona in a good lightXavi wanted to play in the Legends match. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)From a Barcelona perspective, this decision does not exactly make them smell like roses.Xavi is not just any other former player. He is arguably the greatest midfielder to have ever worn Blaugrana, alongside Andres Iniesta.He is a symbol of Barca’s most glorious period and also returned as a coach during one of the club’s toughest periods, helping them stay relevant.Even if there are internal disagreements, blocking him from a Legends match feels unwarranted and leaves a bad taste.Xavi deserves better treatmentBarcelona have blocked Xavi’s request. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)It is understandable that Xavi’s comments around the club’s leadership created tension. He spoke strongly and placed responsibility on people inside the institution.He also gave his support to the man who was running against Laporta in the presidential elections. Barcelona, though, should learn to differentiate criticism from legacy.In a democratically run club, as Barcelona claim they are, everyone should be given the right to voice their opinion without it being held against them in the future.Xavi gave Barcelona some of their finest football memories. Whatever the internal politics, he should never be made to feel like a stranger at the club he helped define.

Fulham eye permanent move for Bayern youngsterDespite making just 10 appearances for Fulham's senior side during his 2025/26 loan spell from Bayern Munich, the Premier League club reportedly want to sign 18-year-old Jonah Kusi-Asare on a permanent basis.According to Sky Germany, Fulham are preparing an offer for the Swedish striker.However, Fulham are not willing to activate the €12 million purchase option included in the loan deal and are instead looking to negotiate a lower fee.Fulham reportedly paid a €4 million loan fee to bring the young forward to England last summer.Kusi-Asare, who joined Bayern from AIK for a reported €3.5 million in February 2024, remains under contract with the German champions until 2027.

After Diomande: Fabrizio Romano reveals major overnight Liverpool transfer developmentInterested clubs are now starting to ‘look at the situation’ with Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister, reports Fabrizio Romano.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL EMPIRE OF THE KOP APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYThe Argentine star suffered a disappointing 2025/26 campaign with Arne Slot’s men, and there are growing suspicions that an exit could be on the cards.This has no doubt been partly fuelled by rumours linking the 27-year-old with La Liga giants Real Madrid.Alexis Mac Allister could leave Liverpool this summerWe want to emphasise that at no point did Romano suggest that an exit was absolutely guaranteed for Mac Allister this summer. Only that some movement remains a possibility for the No.10.“There are some clubs starting to look at the situation of Alexis Mac Allister at Liverpool,” the Italian reporter said on his eponymous YouTube channel.“His situation could be interesting this summer in case of good proposals for Liverpool. For the player, I wouldn’t exclude changes in midfield for him.“This doesn’t mean Mac Allister is 100% leaving, it doesn’t mean he’s out of Liverpool’s project. I’m not saying this. I’m saying that in case of a good proposal on the club and player side, the situation of Mac Allister could eventually develop during the summer transfer window.“This could be a topic. It’s not guaranteed, close or advanced. Just a topic.”Want more Empire of the Kop coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustOf course, from Liverpool’s perspective, we know the club will be looking to recoup some funds from player sales.And if we’re being realistic about names the club would be potentially comfortable parting ways with – who could also net us a significant sum – then Alexis Mac Allister’s name is probably high up on the list.Can Mac Allister have a future under Andoni Iraola?To argue in favour of a midfielder who has previously shone in the Premier League, first with Brighton & Hove Albion, and then with Liverpool, there’s an argument to be made that he wasn’t well utilised under prior management.Arne Slot’s decision to push Ryan Gravenberch higher up the pitch, abandoning the holding six role that provided us with so much security in 2024/25, had serious consequences for the midfield.Mac Allister, for one, has since been accused of being no longer suitable for English top-flight football. But has the World Cup-winner been left with far too much to do, and far too much ground to cover, in the middle of the park?Does it suit a footballer who’s known for dictating a game rather than physically bossing it?These are questions Andoni Iraola will have to get to the bottom of quickly, but in the meantime, we can’t escape the likely reality that player sales will be a key part of our summer.Especially if we’re considering £100m+ deals for the likes of Yan Diomande.READ MORE: Fabrizio Romano confirms massive Yan Diomande to Liverpool update on Tuesday afternoonMore Stories / Latest NewsAfter Diomande: Fabrizio Romano reveals major overnight Liverpool transfer development June 11, 2026 9:12Liverpool submit first bid for Yan Diomande as big summer officially kicks off – report June 11, 2026 8:25Forget what you’ve heard: Liverpool can still bring Kennet Eichhorn to Anfield June 10, 2026 17:29

Arsenal keen to sign Spanish winger Nico WilliamsArsenal remain firmly in the hunt for Nico Williams, with hopes growing that a deal can finally be struck.According to TEAMtalk, the Athletic Bilbao winger is still viewed as one of the club’s standout attacking targets. The interest, sources say, has never gone away.The Gunners have tracked the Spain international since the summer of 2024. Back then, Barcelona pushed hard to sign him but failed to get a deal over the line.Williams instead committed to his boyhood club on a remarkable 10-year contract. That agreement looked to have ended the speculation. Yet a difficult campaign in the Basque Country appears to have shifted his thinking.Bilbao endured a frustrating season, and those close to the player insist he would welcome a Premier League move if the right project emerged.Arsenal retain hope of blockbuster Nico Williams transferHis contract does carry a way out. Williams has a release clause understood to be around €100m (£87m), a steep figure but not an outright barrier for Europe’s elite.Such clauses, in practice, often mark the start of negotiations rather than the end. His wages, though, would make him one of the highest earners at the Emirates.For now, his focus lies elsewhere. The 23-year-old has been named in Spain’s World Cup squad and sees the tournament as a stage to rediscover his best form. A strong showing would only sharpen the interest around him.Behind the scenes, Arsenal continue to monitor the situation closely. They are actively hunting reinforcements on the left of their attack, and Williams sits high on the internal wishlist.Sporting director Andrea Berta believes only a handful of wide forwards could genuinely improve Mikel Arteta’s squad.Williams is firmly in that bracket. Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers has also emerged as a major target, though Arsenal are weighing several options given the competition for him.They will not have a free run, either. Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United are all being kept abreast of Williams’ situation as his representatives assess the market.Read more – England player ratings vs Costa Rica: Three Lions impress in final World Cup warm-upSee Also- Fulham aim to cut fee in Chukwueze permanent dealFollow the Football Faithful on Social Media:Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok

A screen shows foreign exchange rates at a dealing room of Hana Bank in Seoul, South Korea, Thursday, June 11, 2026. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)2026-06-11T01:56:35Z Asian shares were mixed on Thursday following another sell-off of artificial-intelligence stocks that dragged the U.S. market sharply lower. U.S. futures advanced. Oil prices fell after rising earlier as the U.S. launched a second round of airstrikes against Iran.Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 edged up less than 0.1% to 64,217.27 after falling earlier in the day, while the Kospi in South Korea gained 0.4% to 7,763.95.Hong Kong’s Hang Seng fell 0.9% to 24,180.03, while the Shanghai Composite index was down 0.2% to 3,987.01.In Australia, the S&P/ASX 200 likewise shed 0.2% to 8,633.20.Taiwan’s Taiex slipped 0.2%, and India’s Sensex rose 0.4%.On Wednesday, Wall Street’s former superstars continue to face heavy scrutiny.The S&P 500 dropped 1.6% for its first back-to-back drop in three weeks. Closing at 7,266.99, it’s back to where it was in early May. The Dow Jones Industrial Average tumbled 953 points, or 1.9%, to 49,918.78. The Nasdaq composite led the market lower with a 2% slide, to 25,169.50.Wall Street has been shaky since last week, when AI stocks went from roaring to records to suddenly turn lower. Among the worries is that their prices may have shot too high, too fast because of AI mania. The question now is whether the break lower has cleared out excessive optimism that may have built into their stock prices, or if it’s the start of a longer downturn. Super Micro Computer, which sells AI servers, tumbled 28% after saying late Tuesday that it plans to raise $7 billion in cash by selling shares of stock and convertible preferred stock. Such moves raise the most money for companies when their stock prices are high, and they can dilute the ownership stakes of existing shareholders. Read More Micron Technology swung from an early loss of nearly 4% to a modest gain and back to a loss of 4.7%. It’s coming off a wild stretch where it sank 7.7% last Thursday, then plunged another 13.3% Friday and rallied 9.9% Monday. Nvidia, the chip company that’s grown into a nearly $4.9 trillion behemoth because of the AI boom, was the heaviest weight on the S&P 500 after falling 3.7%. The second heaviest was another AI winner, Broadcom, which fell 5.1%. Sign up for Morning Wire: Our flagship newsletter breaks down the biggest headlines of the day. Email address Sign up By checking this box, you agree to AP's Terms of Use and acknowledge that AP may collect and use your data pursuant to our Privacy Policy. Some of the pressure on AI stocks could also be coming from investors pulling cash out to prepare for high-profile debuts on the U.S. stock market for several AI giants. SpaceX’s initial public offering could come later this week, for example.Early Thursday, Brent crude oil, the international standard, fell 0.3% to $92.81 per barrel. It was at around $70 a barrel before the start of the war in late February.U.S. benchmark crude oil was down 0.4% to $89.70 a barrel.Oil prices climbed on Wednesday after President Donald Trump warned Iran would “pay the price” for stalled negotiations between the two sides. The war in the Middle East has been keeping the Strait of Hormuz effectively shut to oil tankers, which has prevented the delivery of crude from the Persian Gulf to customers worldwide.High oil prices have sent inflation higher, and a report on Wednesday showed that prices for U.S. consumers jumped in May at the highest speed in three years. Traders are betting the Federal Reserve will have to hike its main interest rate at least once this year, given price pressures and the strength of the U.S. job market.High yields can slow entire economies and undercut prices for all kinds of investments, including stocks and cryptocurrencies. They hit investments seen as the most expensive in particular, and some critics are calling AI a bubble where investment inflated too far.In other dealings early Thursday, the dollar slipped to 160.52 Japanese yen from 160.56 yen. The euro rose to $1.1547 from $1.1537. ___AP Business Writers Chan Ho-him and Stan Choe contributed to this report. ELAINE KURTENBACH Based in Bangkok, Kurtenbach is the AP’s business editor for Asia, helping to improve and expand our coverage of regional economies, climate change and the transition toward carbon-free energy. She has been covering economic, social, environmental and political trends in China, Japan and Southeast Asia throughout her career. twitter mailto

MOHALI: As the evening sun went down here on Wednesday, Nitish Kumar Reddy was the first one to mark his run up at the centre square. Rohit Sharma, cleared by the BCCI medical team, took stance in one of the four nets. Reddy has become the centre of discussion once it emerged on Wednesday morning that Hardik Pandya developed a low grade quadricep strain a day before joining the India’s ODI team ahead of the series against Afghanistan starting in Dharamshala on Saturday.Two days ago, India’s assistant batting coach Sitanshu Kotak conveyed to the media that both Hardik and Rohit are reportedly fine to play in the series. TOI has learnt that Hardik had dispelled doubts about his ability to bowl 10 overs at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru by June 6. His data was shared with BCCI and team management before he felt discomfort in his quadriceps on Tuesday morning. The CoE staff accompanied him to the BCCI-recommended diagnostic centre on Tuesday night where the injury was confirmed.The selectors and the team management have been fretting about his bowling fitness as they chart their plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa. He was also rested from the upcoming T20I assignments in Ireland and England to preserve him for the ODI format.The recent development could force the selectors and team management to give an extended run to Reddy. He may get a lot more matches through rotation even when Hardik is declared fit to play ODIs. Reddy has been working with UK-based bowling coach Stefan Jones to increase his pace and endurance as a seam-bowling allrounder.India have about 25-30 ODIs before the World Cup in Oct-Nov next year. Sources told TOI that the team management is getting edgy with Hardik’s availability on consistent basis. “The team doesn’t want to get caught in a situation where they don’t have a seam-bowling allrounder ready close to the World Cup. There have been discussions where they wanted to prepare for life without Hardik,” a BCCI source told TOI.The desperation is creeping into the team management is evidenced by the fact that Harshit Rana has been picked for the T20I teams before the CoE has cleared him after a layoff post a knee surgery. TOI understands that Rana is yet to undergo the match simulation tests. The simulation test is likely to be scheduled around June 19 while the team travels to Ireland on June 22.Rana is earmarked to make up for seam-bowling allrounder options. Both Rana and Harshit played in the XI when Hardik was not available for the home ODI series against New Zealand in Jan. “Rana is an integral part of the team management’s plans. He showed he can contribute with useful runs batting at No. 8. The team management is willing to get him ready on the road. He too needs enough game time. They will gradually increase his workload,” the source said. 131650929The selectors had named Shivam Dube as backup in one of the home ODI series last series. It is understood that head coach Gautam Gambhir insisted Dube stayed in the mix. But there’s little conviction about his bowling abilities. It will be interesting to see who replaces Hardik for this series.

A Somali soccer referee, celebrated as Africa’s finest and a national hero, has been denied entry to the United States, effectively preventing him from becoming the first from his nation to officiate at the World Cup. Omar Artan, 34, had earned a coveted spot on FIFA’s final list for the prestigious tournament, a testament to his years of experience and dedicated hard work on football’s biggest stage.His anticipated presence at the global event had ignited widespread hope across Somalia, a country of approximately 19 million people that is steadily recovering from decades of profound instability and civil war. The refusal to grant entry to Artan, who was scheduled to join fellow World Cup referees at their essential training base in Miami, represents an unprecedented decision in modern football history by a host nation. The United States is set to co-host the upcoming tournament alongside Mexico and Canada.Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan returns to a heroes welcome in Mogadishu. (Reuters)After being dropped from FIFA's list of World Cup referees, Artan returned to a hero's welcome in Somalia's capital Mogadishu on Wednesday and urged young people to remain proud of their country.Here is what to know about Artan:Enlisted as a FIFA refereeArtan was enlisted as a FIFA referee in 2018. He later became the first Somali to officiate at the African Cup of Nations when he officiated the group fixture between Tunisia and Namibia in January 2024.In May, he was the referee for the decisive leg of the African Champions League final in Morocco, the continent’s biggest club soccer game.He is one of Africa’s top referees and was named the continent’s best male referee in 2025.How Artan was chosen to officiate the World CupFIFA selects World Cup referees through a lengthy evaluation process overseen by the organization's refereeing officials. The candidates are typically monitored for several years in international, continental and top domestic competitions.Omar Artan became the first Somali to officiate at the African Cup of Nations. (AP)Referees first must be proposed by their national soccer associations to get on the FIFA international list and begin officiating continental tournaments such as the African Cup of Nations. They are then picked for FIFA-organized games like World Cup qualifying matches, a youth World Cup or Olympics. Artan worked at the men’s Under-20 World Cup last year in Chile.Those judged to be the best referees were invited to World Cup preparation camps in 2025 and earlier this year. The final list of referees was announced in April.Why he was denied entry to the USU.S. Customs and Border Protection said Artan “was determined to be inadmissible due to vetting concerns and was denied entry.”A U.S. official later said the referee was refused admission due to “association with suspected members of terror organizations.” The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss a matter covered by visa privacy laws.Somalia is one of nearly 40 countries whose citizens are banned from entry under the Trump administration’s crackdown on immigration and Somali officials say they believe Artan might have been denied due to those restrictions.Fans welcome Somali referee Artan. (Reuters)U.S. President Donald Trump has made statements targeting Somali immigrants in the U.S. and asked them to leave. Blocking Artan angers fansFIFA said it was not involved in the immigration processes and that, in line with previous FIFA events, a host government “ultimately determines who receives a visa and who is admitted into their country.” Still, the decision by a World Cup host country to block the entry of a FIFA-appointed match official is unprecedented.On social media, fans expressed anger over the Artan decision and similar rulings by immigration officials that have affected preparations by visiting teams. Online comments have questioned the ability of the U.S. to host the global competition.Soccer has grown in Somalia despite challengesSomalia’s soccer culture has endured through more than three decades of civil war and political instability. Soccer remains one of Somalia’s most popular sports and has made notable progress in recent years despite limited resources. The national team has increased its participation in regional and international competitions. Local leagues have operated during some of the country’s most difficult periods, often serving as a source of unity and hope for young people.The Somali Football Federation says it organizes 22 competitions annually, from youth and regional leagues to the Somali Premier League, which is the top domestic tier featuring 12 clubs. Domestic competitions continued in various forms even as stadiums suffered damages while being occupied by armed groups or used as military bases. The restoration of Mogadishu Stadium, which holds about 65,000 spectators, and the return of large crowds to league matches have become symbols of gradual recovery and the unifying role soccer continues to play in Somali society.

There was a time, before Reagan Turk’s senior year of high school, when her mother sat her down and told her she supported her if she wanted to give up something.That something, in her Erin Turk’s mind, was basketball.“If you think this is too much, or you are doing it because you think we want you to play, we understand if you need a break,” Erin told her.Reagan’s response: “I’m playing.” Not because she felt she had to because of any obligation to her family. But after her junior year of basketball, the Royals came within one game of a state finals appearance. “After that game, they all made a commitment to each other that they were going to do what it takes to get to Gainbridge the next year,” Erin said.Reagan honored that commitment – and came through on helping her teammates reach their goal. The three-sport athlete, a West Virginia volleyball recruit, averaged 6.5 points and 3.5 rebounds per game for a Roncalli team that finished 27-4 and played for a Class 3A state title, losing to Bellmont in the championship game.And if she had it to do all over again, the Marion County Female Athlete of the Year would do the same thing.“I love being busy,” Reagan said with a smile. “Basketball, volleyball, track … I loved it. I loved the schedule. Some people are like, ‘You’re crazy.’ I can’t sit still. I need to do something.”Reagan, the youngest of three daughters to Tony and Erin Turk, knows she could not do it alone. Playing three sports takes sacrifice. Not only from her, but from her high school and club coaches. Volleyball took priority. But when her Roncalli basketball season ran into late February, there had to be an understanding that she was not going to make all of her Team Indiana travel volleyball games.“I missed a ton of volleyball tournaments this year because of how far we went in basketball,” Reagan said. “I was just like, ‘I have to go to basketball. This team has done so much for me. I have to give back and be there for sectional, regional, semistate and state.’ It was hard to miss volleyball, but my coaches understood that was the main thing at the time.”It was around middle school when Reagan started to feel like volleyball would be her main thing most of the time. Her oldest sister, Lauren, a 2022 Roncalli graduate, ran cross country and track and field. Middle sister Taylor, a 2024 Roncalli graduate, followed in her mom’s footsteps on the basketball court (Erin Duncan was a standout at Roncalli before going to be a three-year letterwinner at UIndy) and still plays at Franklin College.For her first two years at Roncalli, Reagan teamed up with Taylor on the basketball court.“That was so fun for me,” Reagan said. “She is an amazing leader. Both of (my sisters) are inspiring to me. They are amazing people, amazing athletes. They work hard in everything they do. I just wanted to do what they did when I was growing up.”Tony Turk joked that Reagan really did not have a choice. She was sort of along for the ride to follow her sisters as the youngest of three. But Reagan quickly developed a natural leadership that allows her to lead vocally and by example.Maybe she was born with it. Or maybe it is a neighborhood requirement. Close friends Emma Halter, a two-time national champion at Texas, and LSU’s Aly Kirkhoff were Roncalli’s liberos prior to Reagan. They are also neighbors in a southside subdivision.“She definitely was not afraid to let people know what needed to be done,” Roncalli volleyball coach Christina Erazmus said. “She was the one who would make sure everyone is being a team player and keeping the negative comments out. She would always keep the vibe very positive. There was one occasion this season where she came to me and said we need to talk about something before it got out of hand. She’s very mature in that sense. And she leads by example. She’s always the last one putting away the nets at the end of practice.”Reagan is a winner, too. She was part of two state championships for the Roncalli volleyball team in Class 3A as a junior and senior when she moved into the libero spot after Kirkhoff’s graduation. She had 311 digs and 37 aces as a junior and before posting 522 digs and committing just 21 errors on 362 receptions as a senior. She also notched 60 aces.Reagan was named first-team all-state both seasons.“She’s such a gem,” Erazmus said. “Just really a good heart. She’s the kind of kid who is going to stop and give you a hug or make sure she says hi. It doesn’t matter what kind of day she’s having. She is probably the kid who will be most missed and one I will always stay in contact with.”Reagan will take that positive spirit to West Virginia later this month to get started on her preparation for her freshman season. For the first time, she will be completely locked in on one sport. But those experiences on the basketball court and running track will go with her to Morgantown.“I honestly have to give total kudos to my coaches,” she said. “(Basketball coach Jason) Sims is one of the most supportive coaches I’ve ever had. He always said, ‘I know your ticket to college is volleyball. You need to do whatever you need to do with volleyball and we’ll support you all the way.”No regrets. And she leaves Roncalli ready to take on anything coming her way.“This building is filled with amazing people from the teachers, administration, coaches and kids,” Reagan said. “It’s a huge family. These hallways are the place where I get most of my social life and get to talk with most of my friends. Roncalli sets you up so well for life. Even when I’m scared about college, I think about how well I’ve been set up for my future.”Call Star reporter Kyle Neddenriep at (317) 444-6649.Get IndyStar's high school coverage sent directly to your inbox with the High School Sports newsletter. And be sure to subscribe to our new IndyStarTV: Preps YouTube channel.This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Roncalli senior Reagan Turk is Marion County Female Athlete of the Year

[Getty Images]Former Ipswich Town striker Alex Mathie told BBC Radio Suffolk he is "a bit surprised" by Kieran McKenna's resignation and reasoning. "I must admit, I did say at the end of last season he may go to a bigger club. I am a bit surprised at the step down - I thought when he was at his peak he would keep going," he said."You don't know what toll the past five years have taken on him. I don't think he took the decision lightly. He has a young family."I'm sure he will be back within the next year or so. He will want to keep improving."Ex-midfielder Alan Judge is not surprised though by McKenna's decision to have a break from football management. "Funnily enough, I came across Kieran a few weeks ago in town and I spoke to him a little and he just said how much the season had taken out of him," Judge said speaking to BBC Radio Suffolk."Maybe he's looking at other managers that have coached for eight, nine, 10 years in a row and [thought] 'if I have a break now, that will give me a bit more longevity coaching-wise'. We know Kieran was 24/7, wasn't he?"Judge, who played 91 times for the Blues between 2019 and 2021, added McKenna "elevated the club from the lowest to the best"."I was there before he came in. We could all probably say Paul Cook made a little bit of a mess of what was going on and the turnover, and Kieran came in and he turned it right around."Not only are people saying he's a good coach but his man-management is top notch. He has done so much for the club."Listen back to the Blue Hour Special on BBC Sounds or hit play below

Injury, Heartbreak and Snubs: A World-Class XI Missing the 2026 World CupThe World Cup will feature many of the planet's best talents, but there is a whole host of world-class names who will be watching from the sidelines.We've put together a best XI of players missing from the 2026 World Cup, from non-qualifiers to non-selections, and those cruelly ruled out through injury.World Cup 2026’s Missing Stars: Donnarumma, Foden, Kvaratskhelia and a Dream XI left at homeGoalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma - ItalyIt was agony for Italy again as the Azzurri lost to Bosnia in the play-offs. Having gone 60 years without missing a World Cup before 2018, the Italians have not missed three consecutive tournaments.Gianluigi Donnarumma is arguably the sole world-class talent in their current ranks, and is yet to play at a World Cup finals.Right-back: Trent Alexander-Arnold - EnglandTrent Alexander-Arnold's international career has never truly taken off, with both Gareth Southgate and Thomas Tuchel failing to trust the Real Madrid right-back. Alexander-Arnold is a unique talent but one at risk of being wasted by the Three Lions.Centre-back: Eder Militao - BrazilEder Militao has been beset by injuries in recent seasons, including ACL issues in both knees. The Brazilian was ruled out of the World Cup afterundergoing surgery on biceps femoris muscle injury in April. His rotten luck continues.Centre-back: Alessandro Bastoni - ItalyThe second of four Italians to feature in this side.Alessandro Bastoni has been named Serie A's Best Defender twice in the last three seasons and was part of Inter Milan's 2025/26 title-winning team.Left-back: Riccardo Calafiori - ItalyAnother title winner across Europe's top-five leagues this season, Riccardo Calafiori helpedArsenal end their 22-year wait for the Premier League title. However, his fortunes were less impressive with Italy, who failed to make the World Cup once more.Midfield: Sandro Tonali - ItalyThere has been tentative talk about Sandro Tonali costing interested clubs £100m this summer. The Newcastle dynamo certainly belongs on the big stage, but won't get that chance this summer. Italian football is badly in need of a reset.Midfield: Dominik Szobozlai - HungaryPartnering Tonali in our lung-busting midfield partnership isDominik Szoboszlai. The Hungarian was head-and-shoulders above his Liverpool teammates for much of the 2025/26 campaign, but was unable to captain the national side to World Cup qualification.Right-wing: Phil Foden - EnglandIf you'd said two seasons ago thatPhil Foden would miss out on England's World Cup squad, people would have said you were made.Foden was the Premier League's finest talent in 2023/24 and the PFA Player of the Year, but he's unable to reach those highs since. Thomas Tuchel has admitted he does not know Foden's best position, a repeated problem for England managers.Left-wing: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia - GeorgiaPerhaps the biggest omission from this summer's showcase. The gifted Georgian is a genuine Ballon d'Or contender after starring duringParis Saint-Germain's Champions League triumph.However, Kvaratskhelia might just be at a disadvantage for individual acclaim, with World Cups often having a decisive swing in Ballon d'Or voting.Forward: Robert Lewandowski - PolandIt looks likely that we've seenRobert Lewandowski play at a World Cup for the final time. Poland missed out to Sweden in the play-offs and Lewandowski will be 42 by the time the next tournament rolls around.He'll spend the summer assessing his next club, having departedBarcelona after 120 goals across four seasons.Forward: Victor Osimhen - NigeriaVictor Osimhen leads the line alongside Lewandowski in our side. Nigeria's penalty heartbreak against DR Congo cost the Super Eagles a World Cup berth.Osimhen will not have the opportunity to add to his 35 goals in just 51 games for Nigeria this summer.

The Pittsburgh Steelers' countdown to kickoff ahead of the 2026 NFL regular season continues to roll on, with fans needing to wait only 94 more days until the Steel City brand of football hosts the Atlanta Falcons on September 13.In the spirit of the countdown, we at Steelers Wire will take a look at the history of the No. 94 jersey and analyze which players wore it best.Steelers current No. 94 wearer: DL Yahya BlackYahya Black, a behemoth second-year defensive lineman, is the current No. 94 wearer on the Steelers' roster and looks to make a big impact in 2026.Last five Steelers to wear No. 94Yahya Black, 2025-presentDean Lowry, 2024-2025Armon Watts, 2023Tyson Alualu, 2017-2022Lawrence Timmons, 2007-2016Best No. 94 in Steelers history: LB Lawrence TimmonsWhen looking at the greatest Steelers to wear No. 94, there aren't a lot of names to dethrone Pro Bowl linebacker Lawrence Timmons.Timmons, selected by the Steelers in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft, went on to play 10 years in Pittsburgh and one final year with the Miami Dolphins, where he appeared in 172 career games and made 140 starts. Recording 1,067 combined tackles, 71 tackles for loss, 86 quarterback hits, 13 forced fumbles, and 12 interceptions in his 11-year NFL stint, Timmons also earned Pro Bowl and Second-Team All-Pro recognition in 2014.A one-time Super Bowl champion and a staple of the late-2000s to early-2010s Steelers defense, Timmons is the best to ever don No. 94.For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any offseason moves, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers 2026 countdown to kickoff: Best and current wearer of No. 94

CLEVELAND – This was a Judge-less three-game sweep of the AL Central-leading Guardians at Progressive Field, and that was an encouraging sign for these Yankees.“We miss our captain. We miss the best player in the league,’’ said Jazz Chisholm Jr., but ultimately “we have…a lot of super talented players.’’Aaron Judge’s absence presents a challenge, and that first road hurdle was met, concluding with Wednesday afternoon’s 8-4 victory.On the Life Without Judge scoreboard, the Yanks are 5-3, but winners of four straight as they head to Toronto for a weekend series against the bruised (but dangerous) defending AL champs.When Judge, the two-time defending AL MVP, is in their lineup, “we were trying to help him more than anything,’’ said Chisholm.Now, with Judge sidelined for at least two months due to a right rib stress fracture, “we’ve just got to try to do our own part and make up for what we’re missing with him.’’Yankees' all-hands-on deck approachAfter the Guards won two of three at the Stadium last week, the Yanks took the season series with a lot of all-hands-on-deck stuff.They survived an extra-inning win on Monday, as Cody Bellinger came through in the 10th.Trent Grisham stayed hot, veteran first baseman Paul Goldschmidt played some outstanding defense and went 5-for-12 with a homer vs. Cleveland and Yanks’ pitching held Cleveland to a .107 average (3-for-28) with runners in scoring position.The bullpen held it together again in Tuesday’s one-run win, when Gerrit Cole lasted just four innings and Chisholm – fueled by some audible, derisive chants – launched a go-ahead, eighth-inning homer."I think everybody talks about it on the outside,'' Grisham said of the Yankees' look without Judge. "On the inside, it’s business as usual. We’re competing, regardless.''Wednesday was a bit of a struggle for starter Carlos Rodon, and manager Aaron Boone was prepared to buy an inning or two from Ryan Weathers – Friday’s scheduled starter at Toronto – until Rodon produced a 1-2-3 fifth inning, and a 1-2-3 sixth.Due to a rainout last Saturday and Thursday’s team off day, Weathers “was in play today; he was ready to go if we needed him,’’ said Boone, ultimately glad to keep his rotation intact for Toronto.But Weathers “could’ve factored…in a big way’’ on Wednesday, which is part of the “Win Today. Finish’’ narrative.Those words were sketched on an eraser board Wednesday, leading from the clubhouse to the field.Now, the Yankees move on to Toronto, and maybe they’ll have Jasson Dominguez this weekend – as a right field option.Jasson Dominguez in Toronto?Dominguez (shoulder strain) started Tuesday and Wednesday at Class AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre in right field, “and he was really comfortable doing it,’’ Boone said of the reports from Tuesday.In that game, Dominguez also went 3-for-3 with a homer and a walk.Once he’s ready for activation, will the Yankees promote him immediately?“We’ll see,’’ said Boone, who has also seen better at-bats lately from Spencer Jones, who destroyed his first career homer on Tuesday night – a 443-foot shot.There weren’t any Yankee home runs on Wednesday, but “I thought the guys did a little bit of everything today offensively,’’ said Boone, including a key double steal.“You take the best player in the world out, that’s going to have an impact,’’ said Boone. “We have capable people stepping in“Seems like the entire roster is really contributing in meaningful ways in winning scenarios.’’This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Yankees' all-in approach leads to sweep at Cleveland

The Eagles have a new offensive coordinator in Sean Mannion and a new quarterbacks coach in Parks Frazier, and starting quarterback Jalen Hurts says the offseason program is all about learning a new way of doing things.Asked if he's comfortable in the offense, Hurts said that's what Organized Team Activities are for."Yeah, the comfort comes with the repetition," Hurts said. "The comfort comes with the teaching and the time on task to what you're doing. And so you just want to continue to build in those areas. I think it's been the same for me every year when it comes to coaching points, intention, vision, what are we really trying to drive what we're doing. And so just really having a listening ear, asking questions, getting answers, going out there and repping it, feeling it, seeing different looks, seeing different coverages, knowing what to adjust to with the field. So obviously a different voice, different perspective of the game, and every OC has added their own flavor on it. I think another component is quarterback coach, too, because that's something that's changed along with the play caller. So, just being able to adjust to all those things, filter it out, figure it out as time goes."Hurts said doing one-on-one work with Frazier has helped him develop as a quarterback."Parks has been great. I'm excited to see what the summer brings and training camp brings so we continue to grow," Hurts said.After a disappointing 2025 season for the Eagles' offense, Hurts believes things are going to be better in 2026.

Has Crystal Palace’s Maxence Lacroix overtaken Ibrahima Konaté in France’s pecking order?There is a clear first-choice centre-back pairing for France heading into the FIFA World Cup. William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano are the first-choice options.However, there are fitness concerns regarding the former, who is managing back pain. The Arsenal defender, L’Équipe understands, may undergo surgery on the issue upon the conclusion of the tournament. That is a decision for then but Didier Deschamps has choices to make in the now. The election of the third-choice option, given Saliba’s issue, is an important one.It has been Ibrahima Konaté who has been in that role. The defender, who will leave Liverpool to join Real Madrid this summer, has had a tough season, and his poor form at club level has seeped into Les Bleus’ World Cup preparation matches. As a result, L’Équipe understands that he may have been demoted from this role as first back-up. Crystal Palace’s Maxence Lacroix, it would seem, has taken his place. It was Lacroix who came on at half-time in France’s 3-1 win over Northern Ireland on Monday, replacing Saliba, rather than Konaté. GFFN | Luke Entwistle

Taylor Swift risks run in with Scooter Braun at Knicks game (Getty/ Instagram)Taylor Swift risked a run-in with her nemesis, music manager Scooter Braun, while at a star-studded sports game on Wednesday. The Cruel Summer singer sat courtside with her friends Alana and Este Haim and Law and Order star Mariska Hargitay for the New York Knicks game against the San Antonio Spurs. Taylor was one of a slew of A-listers who turned out for the historic finals game, following the Knicks' loss to the Spurs on Monday, with Scooter and his actress girlfriend Sydney Sweeney also in attendance. In a video posted by the New York Post, Scooter and Sydney were spotted sitting a few rows back from the singer and her famous friends in the stands. Scooter later celebrated the Knicks' win with a collection of photos and video footage on Instagram."No words. Thank you. I love these Knicks!!!! Real ones knows what this means to us. One more!" Scooter wrote, while his girlfriend Sydney branded it as the "greatest game ever!" Taylor and Scooter had an infamous feud following the controversial sale of the singer's masters to the music manager in 2019. Other Knicks superfans Timothée Chalamet, Spike Lee and Adam Sandler arrived in their blue-and-orange best, while stars like Michael J. Fox came to show their support. Join HELLO! as we take a look at the star-studded event. 1/10© Getty ImagesTaylor SwiftTaylor was glowing in a blue T-shirt that read "Stevie Knicks", in a tongue-in-cheek reference to the Fleetwood Mac superstar. She paired the look with cutout jeans, high-heeled sandals and a gold chain necklace, as well as her signature red lip. 2/10© Getty ImagesHaimAlana and Este Haim, two-thirds of the rock band, joined their friend Taylor courtside in matching "Stevie Knicks" shirts. You may also likeMeet the WAGs of the New York Knicks, including Kylie Jenner's ex-best friend3/10© Getty ImagesMariska HargitayThe Law & Order: SVU star sat beside Taylor, her longtime friend, dressed in the same "Stevie Knicks" shirt, black jeans and bright blue sneakers.4/10© NBATimothée Chalamet and Kylie JennerThe lovebirds arrived in coordinated looks for Game 4, with the actor in a pair of Chrome Hearts denim jeans with orange crosses and a matching denim jacket. Kylie wore matching jeans and a white tank top paired with strappy heels. 5/10© Getty ImagesMichael J. Fox and Tracy PollanJust days after celebrating his 65th birthday, Michael and Tracy looked so loved-up as they joined the crowds at MSG to cheer on the Knicks. 6/10© Getty ImagesAdam SandlerKnicks fan Adam Sandler arrived in an orange hoodie emblazoned with the team's logo, paired with beige pants and running shoes. 7/10© InstagramHailey BieberThe model took a leaf out of Timothée's book and went for an all-denim look over a blue Knicks tee, and accessorized with black strappy heels. 8/10© InstagramNina DobrevThe Vampire Diaries alum looked stunning in a Knicks singlet top and blue jeans as she prepared to head to the stadium, with Kylie Minogue's "Can't Get You Out Of My Head" playing in the background. 9/10© Getty ImagesBen Stiller and Christine TaylorThe longtime couple made another appearance to cheer on the Knicks, just days after sitting courtside for Game 3. 10/10© Getty ImagesSpike LeeKnicks superfan and acclaimed director Spike Lee also returned to watch the team play at MSG, dressed in a blue and orange Knicks shirt and a bucket hat.

Rep. Norma Torres holds a printout of ProPublica’s reporting on the special treatment given to Juan Orlando Hernández, the former Honduran president who was pardoned of a drug conviction. Screenshot via House Appropriations Committee/YouTube A federal lawmaker is pushing for a provision that would bar the Federal Bureau of Prisons from offering taxpayer-funded VIP perks to pardoned drug lords and child traffickers. Rep. Norma Torres, a California Democrat, introduced the measure last month as an amendment to a House appropriations bill, telling her colleagues that there “should never be preferential treatment for narco leaders.” The move comes in response to ProPublica reporting on the special treatment extended to one high-profile pardon recipient — former Honduran president Juan Orlando Hernández, who was released from a federal penitentiary late last year. Less than 18 months earlier, Hernández had been sentenced to 45 years in prison for taking bribes and allowing drug traffickers to export more than 400 tons of cocaine to the U.S. while he was in office. But after President Donald Trump pardoned him in December, the Central American strongman — who has long maintained his innocence — got what Torres and others have described as the “red carpet” treatment. On the day of his release, ProPublica found, Hernández had in place what’s known as an immigration detainer, a formal request for law enforcement agencies to hold noncitizens for pickup by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Yet instead of holding him, the Federal Bureau of Prisons scrambled to get the detainer removed so he could walk free. Then, instead of giving him a bus ticket or airfare to get home on his own, prison officials paid a four-man tactical team overtime to drive him six hours from a West Virginia high-security facility to the Waldorf Astoria in Manhattan, New York, according to records and three people familiar with the situation. Read More Amid Mass ICE Arrests, Trump Pardon Recipient Juan Orlando Hernández Given Special Treatment Torres sought to stop that sort of treatment with a narrowly tailored amendment barring the bureau and several other agencies from using taxpayer dollars to give convicted drug traffickers and child traffickers — even those who have been pardoned or received a sentence commutation — special accommodations or transportation, as well as from lifting “any detainers not provided to other inmates.” Last month, the amendment hit an early stumbling block when the House Appropriations Committee voted along party lines against including it in its proposed 2027 spending bill. “Taxpayer dollars should not be used to give convicted criminals special accommodations, lifted legal holds, or government-funded transportation,” Torres said in a press release afterward. “We should be enforcing the law, not handing out favors. I’m shocked that my Republican colleagues didn’t agree with that common sense idea.” But that doesn’t necessarily mean the proposal is dead. Last week in a statement to ProPublica, Torres — a Guatemalan immigrant who last year criticized the decision to pardon Hernández — said she planned to raise the issue before the Rules Committee, which can decide whether previously rejected amendments still get a vote on the House floor. “I am not giving up,” she said, adding: “The American people deserve a government that enforces the law fairly and holds powerful criminals accountable, regardless of who pardons them.” A Bureau of Prisons spokesperson declined to comment on the measure out of respect for members of Congress. Previously, a spokesperson said that the bureau does not discuss conditions of confinement or security procedures and that employee standards of conduct prohibit staff from giving any prisoners preferential treatment. ICE had previously referred questions to the White House, which this week did not respond to a request for comment. Long before his arrest and controversial release, Hernández had been a polarizing figure, plagued by allegations of corruption in his country. Still, he was seen as a key U.S. ally under the Obama and first Trump administrations, in part because of his apparent interest in tackling drug trafficking and migration issues. But in 2018, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration arrested his younger brother, former Honduran congressman Tony Hernández, for weapons and drug trafficking charges. The following year, a jury found Tony Hernández guilty in a Manhattan federal trial. And weeks after the elder Hernández left office in 2022, he was arrested in Honduras and extradited to the U.S. to face drug trafficking and weapons charges. Prosecutors said Juan Orlando Hernández funded his political career with money he got from “violent drug-trafficking organizations” in exchange for allowing them to “move mountains of cocaine” out of the country. At one point, they said during trial, he bragged that he would “stuff the drugs right up the noses of the gringos.” After a federal jury voted to convict him in early 2024, Hernández was sent to a notorious high-security penitentiary in West Virginia to serve his time. Last year, he appealed to Trump’s sympathies, penning a four-page letter framing his case as a “political persecution” by the Biden administration. In November — two days before the Honduran presidential election that swept Hernández’s right-wing National Party back into power — Trump announced his intent to pardon his former Central American counterpart. Experts said the timing sent an obvious message on the eve of a tight race; as one former high-ranking U.S. diplomat previously told ProPublica, the pardon was a show of support that served as a “clear green light for the National Party to manipulate the vote.” (The narrow victory for Nasry “Tito” Asfura, who had been trailing in multiple polls, came amid reports of voter intimidation and fraud allegations. After the election, Asfura promised to “work tirelessly for Honduras.”) On Dec. 1, Trump formally granted Hernández the full pardon, and by the end of the day he was on his way to the swank, five-star hotel in New York City, ProPublica reported. Days later, Renato Stabile, Hernández’s court-appointed lawyer, filed a motion to vacate the judgment and dismiss the indictment in light of the presidential pardon. When prosecutors didn’t file a response opposing it, a federal court agreed to Stabile’s request. Previously, Stabile told ProPublica his client’s treatment during the release process was appropriate, as Hernández could have been arrested or killed had he been deported to his home country. He also declined to comment on where Hernández stayed but said the government did not pay the bill. Hernández had declined to comment through his attorney. At the time, Joe Rojas, a retired prison worker and former union leader, said that BOP staff were “disgusted” after the agency “rolled out the red carpet” for Hernández. Last month, when the amendment came up for debate in front of the 63-member House Appropriations Committee, Torres held up a printed copy of ProPublica’s investigation as she told her colleagues about the special treatment Hernández received and about how the prisons agency had used “our hard-earned taxpayer dollars” to pay for his transport to New York. “These actions can never be allowed to happen ever again,” she said. Two other lawmakers spoke in support of the measure. One, Rep. Hal Rogers, a Kentucky Republican, opposed it, calling the amendment “performative and unnecessary.” He did not explain his reasoning to the committee, and his office did not respond to an emailed request for comment. Ultimately, 31 Republicans opposed the amendment and 27 Democrats supported it. None of the Republican members who voted against the amendment responded to requests for comment from ProPublica. Though Torres plans to raise the issue again this summer in front of the Rules Committee, the 9-4 Republican majority there makes it unlikely the measure will garner enough support to move forward right now. But if the House fails to agree on spending bills before the end of this Congress, the November elections could change the balance of power and give the Democrats more say in what amendments make it to the floor next year. The post Lawmaker Pushes for Ban on Special Treatment for Convicted Drug Traffickers After ProPublica Report appeared first on ProPublica.

Texas A&M's 2026 season ended at the hands of USC in the College Station Regional less than two weeks ago, and while second-year coach Michael Earely deserves credit for leading the Aggies back to the NCAA Tournament after missing the postseason during his first year at the helm, but after firing pitching coach Jason Kelley, it's clear that the Aggies are in need of better coaching and talent on the mound.Despite his struggles, junior LHP Shane Sdao could easily depart for the 2026 MLB Draft, while elite closer Clayton Freshcorn will also have a tough decision to make regarding his future, knowing that his stock has steadily risen after ending the season with an impressive 2.82 ERA with 56 strikeouts. Another name to watch is incoming senior Weston Moss, who also struggled early in the year but settled in late, capping his season off with a record performance against Texas State. Pairing with sophomore ace Aiden Sims, the right pitching coach hire should help Moss, Sdao, and several other pitchers, including Gavin Lyons, improve significantly next season.This week, it was revealed that the Aggies are in the mix for Texas State pitcher Wade Cooper, as On3 insider Pete Nakos confirmed that Texas A&M is now the leading favorite to land the standout freshman, who recorded five saves and 73 strikeouts last season."Cooper just finished his freshman season at Texas State with a 4.72 ERA, five saves in 66.2 innings pitched and 73 strikeouts. Sources tell On3 that Texas A&M is trending to land Cooper, and barring something unforeseen, he’s expected to land in College Station."Adding Wade Cooper would be the first step towards filling out the 2027 pitching rotation, but given the likely departure of Texas A&M's top three hitters, Michael Earley and his staff have plenty of work ahead of them to rebuild the roster. Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M is 'expected to land' Texas State transfer P Wade Cooper