If all goes according to plan for the Indiana Fever, Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston are going to play together for a very long time. They had one of their best games ever together on Thursday.The Indiana Fever stars became the first teammates in WNBA history to both post 30-point double-doubles in a 114-106 overtime win over the Chicago Sky. Clark had 32 points on 8-of-18 shooting and 10 rebounds, while Boston had 34 points on 13-of-26 shooting and 12 rebounds.It was also the third 30-point, 10-assist game of Clark’s career. There are only four other such games in WNBA history, accomplished by Jia Perkins, Diana Taurasi, Sabrina Ionescu and Skylar Diggins.The latter player was on the court for the Sky, and nearly helped push Chicago to a thrilling comeback win. The Fever jumped out to a 19-point lead in the second quarter, but the Sky took the lead back in the third quarter.The Fever also held a five-point lead with 17.8 seconds left, but the Sky forced overtime with a pair of Elizabeth Williams free throws, a Kelsey Mitchell turnover and a Diggins 3-pointer.The Fever managed to close things out in overtime, despite a 30-point game from Sky rookie Sydney Taylor off the bench.The win improves the Fever’s record to 7-5, and 3-1 in Commissioner’s Cup play.

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Paige Bueckers scored a season-high 31 points, Jessica Shepard had 17 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists, and the Dallas Wings beat the Phoenix Mercury 85-70 on Thursday night.Bueckers scored 24 points in the first half on 11-of-14 shooting, capped by a 3-pointer with 54.2 seconds left to give the Wings a 45-33 lead. Dallas also outscored Phoenix 25-16 in the third quarter. Dallas, which led by as many as 22 points, had its lead cut to 80-70 with 1:28 left after sitting Bueckers with a big lead. But Phoenix was called for an offensive foul on its next possession and Li Yueru completed a three-point play with 42.5 seconds remaining for a 13-point lead to seal it.Bueckers, who also had six rebounds and five assists in 31 minutes, recorded the 17th 30-point game in the WNBA this season. The 30-point performance was the third of her career and first since setting the rookie scoring record last August. Azzi Fudd also scored 17 for Dallas (8-4). Shepard secured her 26th career double-double and seventh of the season. Lexi Held led Phoenix (4-10) with 17 points. Kahleah Copper was 3 of 10 from the field to finish with 13 points. Alyssa Thomas had six points, nine rebounds and 10 assists. Up nextPhoenix: Begins a three-game homestand on Saturday against Los Angeles. Dallas: Plays at Portland on Saturday. ___AP WNBA: https://apnews.com/hub/wnba-basketball

LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY - MAY 02: Cherie DeVaux, trainer of Golden Tempo #19, celebrates after becoming the first female trainer to win the Kentucky Derby during the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs on May 02, 2026 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)Getty ImagesCherie DeVaux is quickly becoming a household name after her training brilliance helped Golden Tempo run to the winner’s circle in two Triple Crown races this year. Winning the Kentucky Derby is a dream come true for any Thoroughbred trainer. Capturing the Belmont Stakes is another bucket list achievement for horse racing conditioners. Winning both in the same year is quite remarkable and her achievements have written her name in the history books.DeVaux Dealing With The Price Of Fame In A Good Way The sport of Thoroughbred racing has many “big” days on a calendar that stretches throughout the year. The Triple Crown races get the most notoriety as they occur during the spring and are the more widely recognized events in the sport by the general public. With the focus of the world affixed to the Kentucky Derby, Devaux became the first female trainer to lead a horse to the winner’s circle in the world’s most famous race. That alone placed her on a pedestal. Coming back five weeks later and again garnering glory in the Belmont Stakes with a horse many thought was not capable has put her name in lights.Dealing with the fame of it all has been a welcomed challenge for this New York native, but it has been a challenge nonetheless.“The last five or six weeks has been a bit overwhelming”, says DeVaux, who took out her trainer’s license in 2018. “It has been a very humbling experience for me and I wouldn’t want it any other way, but it has also been very exhausting. In this sport there are no off days, but when you couple that with all the other commitments that go along with winning these races it quickly becomes very demanding. Making time for everything has been tough, but we have found a way and been able to keep our focus on what got us here which is hard work and maintaining a successful stable of horses.”The DeVaux Perspective On Becoming The First Female Trainer To Win The Kentucky DerbyWhen Cherie Devaux saddled Golden Tempo for the 2026 Kentucky Derby, she became the nineteenth female to send a horse to the starting gates for this Run for the Roses. The previous best finish for a female trainer was 1992 when Shelly Riley sent Casual Lies out to a second-place finish behind Lil E. Tee. Huge history was made when her Tempo was Golden in the Derby, but for Cherie DeVaux, the focus should not simply be on her gender.LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY - MAY 02: Cherie DeVaux trainer of Golden Tempo #19, is the first female trainer to win the Kentucky Derby, celebrates with the trophy in the winner's circle following the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs on May 02, 2026 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)Getty Images “I understand the significance of me being the first female trainer to win, but I think it is way more important that I am batting 1.000 in two Triple Crown races”, smiles DeVaux, who played college softball at Florida Gulf Coast University. “My goal is to be one of the best trainers in the sport, not just the best female trainer. My horses don’t care if I am a girl or a boy and I just want to be an equal with all the other hard-working trainers out there. I am not really sure why women are under represented in the sport, but I hope our achievements can perhaps inspire others to become involved.”Golden Tempo Is The Cherry On Top Of What Has Been A Sweet Early Career The training career for Cherie DeVaux has really taken flight in the last few years. After working as a hotwalker and assistant to Chuck Simon and Chad Brown, the now Kentucky-based DeVaux struck out on her own in 2018. Having now won just over 300 times, she has enjoyed some real highlights with victories in 30 Stakes races including a Breeders Cup Mile score (More Than Looks 2024) and conditioning the 2025 Champion Female Turf Horse in She Feels Pretty. Fortunate to have had many good horses and having shown the ability to get them to the winner’s circle, DeVaux has created significant expectations with her hard work. Being a major player in developing Golden Tempo into the current king of the three-year old division has been one of the most rewarding aspects of her young career. The molding of this piece of clay that is a son of Curlin into a Triple Crown masterpiece he has become is a work of art she can treasure forever.LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY - MAY 02: Golden Tempo #19, ridden by jockey Jose Ortiz, heads into the first turn the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs on May 02, 2026 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)Getty Images“The development of Golden Tempo into a Kentucky Derby and Belmont champion has been one of the greatest experiences of my professional life”, says DeVaux. “If you had told me back in December of last year he was a Kentucky Derby horse I would have has serios doubts. Then he won the LeComte Stakes in January in his first start at three and really began to develop as a race horse. We knew he was headed in the right direction but also understood he had to get a lot better. The goal at that time was to just get enough points to get him into the starting gates on the first Saturday in May.” Third place finishes in both the Risen Star Stakes and Louisiana Derby provided enough points to make the field for the Kentucky Derby and DeVaux was ready to unveil her Picasso. As the Derby unfolded and Golden Tempo executed the gameplan, her dedication delivered a scintillating sculpture. After this history-making moment, the story gets better as her 23 to 1 shot that was “lucky” to win the Kentucky Derby wheels back and looks even better in his Belmont Stakes win as a somewhat dismissed 6 to 1 horse on the tote board. “The Kentucky Derby was a fantastic race for him but more importantly I think it was an ahh-ha moment for Golden Tempo”, says DeVaux, who was a barrel racer as a teenager . “He has been a different horse since that win and I think he figured out some things about himself. He worked extremely well before the Belmont and we all had a lot of confidence going into the race. Fortunately, he ran to expectations and we feel that win offered some vindication for all of us.” A Humble DeVaux Applauds Her Team And Jose Ortiz The rigors of running a top-notch Thoroughbred barn can be quite challenging. As is the case in all sports, it takes a good team to achieve success. DeVaux has built a solid surrounding cast in her relatively brief time in the game. One of the key components in the Golden Tempo success story has been jockey Jose Ortiz. As the only rider that has climbed aboard for his six afternoon visits to the starting gates, Ortiz has been all of 18 carat. “Jose and I met when he and his brother first came to the United States and began riding in New York”, says DeVaux. “We have had a great relationship and he is always my first call for riding assignments. I know we had Golden Tempo ready for both those big races, but without Jose riding I am not sure we win either. He knows the horse so well and never panics. There is going to be a big late run and he has faith in his mount and knows when to call on him.”LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY - MAY 02: Jockey Jose Ortiz of Golden Tempo celebrates with the Garland of Roses after winning the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs on May 02, 2026 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)Getty Images Another valuable part of the Golden Tempo team has been the ownership groups of the Phipps family and St. Elias Stables. Allowing DeVaux to bring this grandson of Bernardini along at the right pace has been a key to his development. “I can’t say enough about the Golden Tempo owners”, says DeVaux. “Having clients that are on-board with our plan is critical. Each horse can be a little different and having people that are patient and cooperative is of the utmost importance. I have certain core values and beliefs with the horse always being top priority.” Golden Tempo has now won four of six lifetime starts with two third place finishes. He has earned $4,633,000 on the track and will likely target the Travers Stakes on August 29 at Saratoga as his next major race.This article was originally published on Forbes.com

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - JUNE 11: Nikolaj Ehlers #27 of the Carolina Hurricanes is congratulated by his teammates after scoring a goal against the Vegas Golden Knights during the second period in Game Five of the 2026 Stanley Cup Final at Lenovo Center on June 11, 2026 in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Carolina Hurricanes dominated the Vegas Golden Knights on Thursday night, 4-2, to take a 3-2 series lead and come within one game of lifting the Stanley Cup. After struggling for the majority of the postseason, both the power play and two of Carolina’s top three regular season scorers — Andrei Svechnikov and Sebastian Aho — carried the Canes to a big win on Thursday night. Svechnikov scored two power play goals while Aho found the back of the net for the first time in the Stanley Cup. Nikolaj Ehlers gave the Knights a power play a little less than seven minutes into the first period on a delay of game penalty. The Knights, after being just 1-for-12 on the power play in the first four games, capitalized courtesy of Pavel Dorofeyev, who found the back of the net on a cross ice pass from Jack Eichel. It didn’t take long for Carolina to respond, though. And who else but Jordan Staal. After getting the penalty, Ehlers redeemed himself with a great shot-pass to the front of the net that was tipped in by Staal for his sixth goal of the Stanley Cup so far. After the first, the score was knotted at 1-1. Uncharacteristically, the Canes were outshot, 8-5, by the Knights. There wasn’t much offensive action for either side in the first 10 minutes of the second period, but two straight Vegas penalties changed that. The Golden Knights killed the first, but it was Svechnikov who went five-hole on the second power play, giving the Canes a 2-1 lead in the second period. In the first four games, Carolina was outscored 9-1 in the second, but it was a different story tonight. That was all that was needed to get the top line for the Canes going it seemed. With a little over two minutes in the second, a great forecheck from Jordan Martinook led to a goal from Aho, who went high over Carter Hart. It marked Aho’s first goal of the series, giving the Hurricanes a 3-1 lead in the second.For the first time in the Stanley Cup, Carolina outplayed Vegas in the second period, entering the third with a 3-1 advantage and just 20 minutes away from their first series lead. Carolina picked up right where they left off in the third period. After Mark Stone was called for a double minor for high sticking Jalen Chatfield, Svechnikov scored his second power play goal of the night on a great pass from Ehlers. Dorofeyev added his second of the game with a little over six minutes left in the game to cut Carolina’s lead to two goals. The Canes were able to hold the Knights off and secure the big win, with Bussi saving 22 of 24 shots. The Stanley Cup will be in the building as the Hurricanes have a chance to lift it for the first time since 2006 on the road Sunday at 8 PM.

CANTON – The Watterson baseball team’s approach in the first inning of a Division III state semifinal June 11 looked like brute efficiency, and the player whose big blow propelled the Eagles into their first championship game since 1997 essentially confirmed that with a smile.“See ball, hit ball,” junior catcher Ben Uhlenhake said.Watterson roughed up Cuyahoga Falls Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy starting pitcher Kyle Shaw early at Thurman Munson Memorial Stadium, scoring four times in the first with a mix of patient and aggressive at-bats to roll to a 5-1 victory.Uhlenhake’s three-run home run ultimately was the game-winner, coming after junior outfielder Caden Mangini hit a standing double to left field on the game’s second pitch and scored on an error.Senior third baseman Michael Wozniak singled and senior first baseman Mike Mulligan walked ahead of Uhlenhake’s home run, his fourth of the year, on a slider down the middle of the plate.“I prayed to God. I asked him, ‘Please allow me to have a huge hit for my team,’ ” Uhlenhake said. “We know that [starter] Ben Burleson throws a ton of strikes and he won’t let up a bunch of runs. He hammers the zone, so we knew it we could jump on them early, it would be a safe win.”Five Eagles had one hit apiece, powering Watterson (27-3) into the final against Hamilton Badin (29-3) at 7 p.m. June 12 at 7 17 Credit Union Park in Akron.Badin defeated Parma Padua 5-2 in the first semifinal.Watterson is going for its fourth title. The others came in 1988, 1991 and 1997.The Eagles drove Shaw from the game after a 26-pitch inning and had only two hits thereafter, but the damage already was done.“[Uhlenhake] often gets pitched in reverse,” Watterson coach Jeff Boulware said. “He is such a big kid [6-foot, 215 pounds] and he sees a lot of spinners, so he has done an awesome job in terms of his training to get better hitting the off-speed pitch to the point that he now sits on those.“When he gets into one, it doesn’t come back.”Burleson, a senior, took care of the rest on the mound, scattering six hits and striking out three without a walk on 83 pitches. Burleson induced eight groundouts and nine flyouts in a game that took 1 hour, 46 minutes.“I give all credit to my defense,” Burleson said. “I try to pound the [strike] zone as much as I can and I know they will make plays. That’s my game plan.“My fastball [works well], just pounding the corners, getting strikes and ripping my slider and changeup in and letting them put into plays. I’ve always been that pitcher. Pounding strikes is the name of the game for me.”First-time state qualifier CVCA (23-10) scored in the second on a single from reliever Alex Mammone.Watterson scored its final run in the fourth. Burleson led off with a double and advanced home on sacrifices from senior outfielder Caiden Holcomb and senior shortstop Connor Adkins Davidson.Given injuries to his pitching staff throughout the season, Boulware was not immediately sure who will pitch the final.Boulware was a starting third baseman on the 1997 championship team. His coach, Scott Manahan – now the head coach at Capital University – was in attendance June 11.“The cool part about this is coach Manahan is one of my closest friends,” Boulware said. “I am probably one of the only guys who can say I played for him, I coached against him when I was at [Worthington] Kilbourne and I coached with him. We are so blessed to have somebody with his knowledge helping us out, and we are thrilled to have one more game.”High school sports reporter Dave Purpura can be reached at dpurpura@dispatch.com and at @dp_dispatch on X.This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Watterson baseball to play for OHSAA state championship

Photo by David Ramos/Getty ImagesFOX was accused of botching the World Cup’s first hydration-break test after viewers said commercials ran long during Mexico vs South Africa.The 2026 World Cup opened with Mexico beating South Africa 2-0 at Estadio Azteca, but the American broadcast quickly became its own controversy.That is a brutal start for a network carrying the tournament in the United States. Fans can forgive awkward studio choices, but missing live World Cup action is a different level of frustration.Photo by Carl Recine/Getty ImagesFOX World Cup hydration break mistake angers fansAs Jorge Torres posted, FOX already had viewers annoyed after the network did not show the opening ceremony live when it actually happened.One fan framed that first complaint bluntly: “Maybe try showing the opening ceremony live when it actually happened.”The backlash got worse during the hydration breaks. FIFA introduced mandatory three-minute stoppages in each half for the 2026 tournament, with player welfare the official reason in a summer World Cup across North America.Broadcasters are allowed to use those pauses for commercials, but they still have to be back for live action. That is where FOX appeared to lose viewers.One angry fan wrote: “All it took was literally the second hydration break for FOX to run too many commercials and miss some live action. Absolutely ridiculous conceit.”Another viewer saw it coming: “Had a feeling they were gonna mess that up. First half coming back from commercials dropped right into action.”A solution also came from fans. One asked: “I don’t get why they don’t split screen it.”Another post summed up the accusation: “FIFA (supposedly) has rules for broadcasters during World Cup hydration breaks. Fox broke them during the very first game, and even missed match action showing commercials.”Mexico win over South Africa gets overshadowed by FOX backlashThe frustration was sharper because the match itself had plenty going on. Mexico won 2-0, with Julián Quiñones scoring early and Raúl Jiménez adding the second after halftime.The opener also had three red cards, with South Africa reduced to nine men and Mexico defender César Montes sent off late.Mexico now leads Group A with three points and a plus-two goal difference. South Africa sit at the bottom after one match, with no points and suspension problems already building.Mexico plays Korea Republic next on June 18 in Guadalajara, while South Africa faces Czechia in Atlanta the same day.FOX will have bigger USMNT moments ahead, including the United States opener against Paraguay in Los Angeles. But this was the wrong kind of first impression.Read more:The atmosphere inside Azteca stadium was electric for Mexico vs South AfricaWorld Cup watch party in Downtown Atlanta, Georgia goes wild during Mexico vs South Africa‘Daylight robbery’ – Food prices stun World Cup fans at Mexico vs South Africa

South Korea's national football team entered the 2026 World Cup with one of the most impressive stretches, going unbeaten through the second round of AFC qualifying. They picked up five wins with one draw for 16 points and a +19 goal differential. This was followed by another stellar run in Group B during the third round of qualifying, tallying 22 points with a +17 goal differential, going unbeaten, and securing their spot in the World Cup.Their 2026 World Cup is officially underway on Thursday, June 11, with a match against Czechia, and South Korea is widely viewed as a popular choice to advance from Group A. We'll run down the team's full group and World Cup schedule, including dates and times of their matches.South Korea lands in Group ASouth Korea will face off with each team in Group A once before the top two, and possibly a third team will advance to the next round.Group A:MexicoSouth KoreaCzechiaSouth AfricaSouth Korea's 2026 World Cup schedule: Dates, times and matchupsThursday, June 11: South Korea vs. Czechia at 10 p.m. ETLocation: Estadio Akron, Guadalajara, MexicoThursday, June 18: Mexico vs. South Korea at 9 p.m. ETLocation: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GeorgiaWednesday, June 24: South Africa vs. South Korea at 9 p.m. ETLocation: Estadio BBVA, Guadalupe, MexicoAhead of the World Cup's official kickoff on June 11, South Korea was listed as a small favorite over Czechia in their opener. The highly anticipated second matchup against group favorites Mexico lists their opponent as a -115 favorite, and the Group A action wraps up with South Korea receiving an odds-on advantage at -140 vs. South Africa.This article originally appeared on For The Win: South Korea World Cup 2026 schedule: Dates, times and locations

Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever continued their 2026 WNBA regular season with a 114-10 overtime win against the Chicago Sky on Thursday, June 11.Clark, a former Iowa women's basketball star, and the Fever are 7-5 after the first 12 games of the regular season. Here's a look at how Clark fared in Thursday's game in Indianapolis:Caitlin Clark stats today in Indiana Fever vs Chicago SkyMinutes: 40Points: 32Rebounds: 7Assists: 10Blocks: 0Steals: 0Turnovers: 5Fouls: 4FG shooting: 8-183-point shooting: 1-6Free throws: 15-15Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever upcoming gamesJune 13: at Connecticut Sky, 5 p.m. CT, Peacock and NBC Sports NetworkJune 16: vs Toronto Tempo, 6 p.m., USA NetworkThis article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Caitlin Clark's stats in Indiana Fever vs Chicago Sky game today

🏟️​Sell-outs or empty stadiums, which way will the World Cup go?A day of contrasts in the stadiums was experienced on the first day of the 2026 World Cup.A packed Estadio Ciudad de México stood in contrast to what was seen in the match between Korea and Czechia in Guadalajara. The "Azteca" was a true human cauldron for Mexico’s debut against South Africa, recording an impressive and historic full house of 80,824 fans.However, the euphoria quickly faded in the second Group A clash. During the match between South Korea and Czechia, the television cameras could not hide an uncomfortable reality: multiple rows of empty seats in certain sections of the stadium.What will the trend be at the World Cup? Will fans feel the impact of the high ticket prices?This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Variety may receive an affiliate commission. After a thrilling start of the F1 season in Monaco, Andrea Kimi Antonelli of Team Mercedes won yet another race (his fifth of the season) gaining 156 points after 78 laps. Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton came in second and Red Bull Racing’s Isack Hadjar rounding out the podium. However, the season is seven rounds in, as F1 travels from Montreal to Spain.More from Variety'Slow Horses' Season 6 Sets Fall Release Date, First Glimpse of Lenny Rush Alongside Slough House TeamCush Jumbo Talks 'Criminal Record' Season 2, June and Hegarty's Odd Bond and [SPOILER'S] Shocking DeathAs Impasse With DirecTV Continues, Scripps Directs Viewers to These 3 'Other Streaming and Cable Services' The F1 Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix takes place at Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona, Spain. Practice 1 begins on Friday, June 12 at 7:30 a.m. ET/4:30 a.m. PT, while race day lands on Sunday, June 14 at 9 a.m. ET/6 a.m. PT. Check out a complete F1 2026 season schedule here.watch 2026 F1 Season on Apple TV Barcelona is a star-studded racing event, as the second F1 event of June. In the past years, the grand prix has seen the likes of Terry Crews, Patrick Dempsey and others. Tune-in to F1 MSC Cruises Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix to see the stars at the Formula 1 Paddock Club this year. Want to watch F1 online? The best way for fans to tune into every race for the 2026 season (including Miami Grand Prix, Grand Prix of The Americas, Las Vegas Grand Prix and others) is with Apple TV. Subscribers can enjoy all of the action on the pitch at no additional cost, just the price of the streaming service’s subscription. To watch for free, you can sign up for a 7-day free trial to watch hit Apple TV originals, including “F1: The Movie,” “Pluribus,” “Severance,” “For All Mankind,” “Eternity,” “Ted Lasso,” “Long Way Home,” “Killers of the Flower Moon,” “Your Friends and Neighbors,” “Hijack,” “The Morning Show,” “Presumed Innocent,” “Masters of the Air” and others. Afterwards, you can either cancel, or keep watching for $12.99/month, or $99/year. Meanwhile, Apple TV offers all F1 races, as well as warmups, practice and qualifying coverage, post-race analysis, race highlights, driver profiles, interviews, team info, match replays and other extras, including “Drive to Survive” (in U.S. TV markets only), with no blackouts. All grands prix livestreams are presented in 4K Dolby Vision with immersive 5.1 surround sound and Apple’s Multiview experience with up to four live feeds at once during races. Learn more and sign up to watch the 2026 F1 season on Apple TV, below:watch 2026 F1 Season on Apple TVFriday, June 12Free Practice 1 at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 a.m. PTFree Practice 2 at 11 p.m. ET/8 a.m. PTSaturday, June 13Free Practice 3 at 6:30 a.m. ET/3:30 a.m. PTQualifying at 10 a.m. ET/7 a.m. PTSunday, June 14Race Day at 9 a.m. ET/6 a.m. PTBest of VarietyTony Awards Final Predictions: Who Will Win and Should Win on Broadway's Biggest NightWhat's Coming to Disney+ in June 2026What’s Coming to Netflix in June 2026Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Carolina Panthers and wide receiver Jalen Coker agreed to terms Thursday night on a three-year, $35 million contract extension that will keep him with the team through 2019, according to a person familiar with the situation.Panthers coach Dave Canales declared late last season that Coker, signed as an undrafted free agent out of Holy Cross in 2024, would be the team’s starting wide receiver moving forward. Canales and the Panthers reaffirmed their commitment to him with the deal. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the deal had not been announced.It’s rare when teams extend exclusive rights free agents, but the Panthers were convinced Coker is a valuable part of their future. He had 43 catches for 394 yards and three touchdowns last season after missing the first month of the season with an injury. He came on strong toward the end of the year and eventually replaced Xavier Legette, Carolina's first-round pick in 2024, in the starting lineup alongside Tetairoa McMillan, last year’s AP Offensive Rookie of the Year.Coker had a breakout performance in Carolina’s NFC wild-card playoff loss to the Los Angeles Rams with nine catches for 124 yards and a touchdown.Coker didn't receive much attention from top level Division I college programs coming out of high school and settled on attending Holy Cross. He promised his mother he would not transfer and would stick it out there and get his degree. He played four years at Holy Cross and caught 163 passes for 2,684 yards and a school-record 31 touchdowns.___AP NFL: https://apnews.com/NFL

Victor Wembanyama finds himself at center of ugly postgame scene originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Victor Wembanyama's difficult night did not end when the final buzzer sounded at Madison Square Garden.After the New York Knicks completed a stunning 107-106 comeback victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 4 of the NBA Finals, the Spurs star was met by a hostile crowd outside his Manhattan hotel. Videos shared on social media showed fans gathering near the entrance as Wembanyama arrived with team security.One video appeared to show an egg thrown in Wembanyama's direction. The object missed him and struck a nearby street sign before breaking apart. Wembanyama briefly turned toward the crowd before security escorted him inside. The New York Police Department later said it had no official report related to the incident.View this post on InstagramA post shared by SportsCenter (@sportscenter)The confrontation came hours after one of the most painful losses of the Spurs' season. San Antonio blew a 29-point lead as the Knicks rallied for a one-point victory that pushed the Spurs to the brink of elimination. Wembanyama also missed two late free throws during the collapse.The scenes outside the hotel followed several days of rising tension between the two fan bases. Earlier in the series, videos circulated online showing Spurs supporters being harassed in New York, with some fans having jerseys ripped apart after San Antonio's Game 3 victory. Wembanyama publicly condemned those incidents, saying fans should remember that basketball is only a game and that respect must come first.Celebrations across New York after Game 4 also led to a heavy police response. According to the NYPD, 56 people were taken into custody on charges ranging from assault to disorderly conduct as large crowds filled the streets around Midtown Manhattan. Police described parts of the postgame behavior as reckless and dangerous.Concerns about crowd behavior have already affected Finals-related events. Madison Square Garden canceled a planned public watch party before Game 4, citing safety concerns after earlier disturbances connected to the series.With the Finals returning to San Antonio for Game 5, league officials and both teams will hope the focus shifts back to basketball rather than the growing security concerns surrounding the series.More NBA news:Hall of Famer points to one thing he can't forgive in Spurs' collapseFormer NFL LB wants De'Aaron Fox out of San Antonio Spurs after one playShaquille O'Neal points to one Knicks quality that erased a 29-point deficit11-time NBA All-Star sees a Jaylen Brown answer to Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo questionMitch Johnson’s blunt Victor Wembanyama take proves why Knicks had no answer in Game 3

One of the most uncertain groups of the 2026 World Cup was Group A, with Mexico, South Korea and Czechia all legitimate contenders to reach the knockout rounds. South Korea took a major step toward making that happen in its opener on Thursday.Playing in front of a friendly crowd in Guadalajara, South Korea defeated Czechia 2-1 in a comeback win. Neither team mounted much of an attack in the first half, but Czechia broke through in the 59th minute on a perfect set piece. The 6-foot-3 Ladislav Krejcí connected on a header off a throw-in to open the scoring.As thrilling as that was for Czechia, it also seemed to unlock something in South Korea. They were much more aggressive on the ball once playing from behind and that soon bore fruit with an equalizer by Hwang In-Beom in the 67th minute.Czechia appeared to take back the lead minutes later, but was called for being offside. Then South Korea took the lead for good on a gorgeous goal by Oh Hyeon-Gyu. Korean captain and LAFC star Son Heung-min had his chances to join the fun with a match-high six recorded shots, but was held scoreless.South Korea will get the next big test with Mexico on Thursday, while Czechia will face South Africa. Mexico had little trouble dispatching the underdog earlier Thursday, winning 2-0.After one day of play, Mexico and South Korea have the upper hand to advance, while Czechia faces a must-win against Mexico to close group play assuming it takes care of business against South Africa.

A game-changing call happened in Game 4 of the Finals, and it was not OG Anunoby's block originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Game 4 of the NBA Finals had plenty of eventful moments, headlined by OG Anunoby's game-winning tip-in. With all the loud moments in the game, some calls went under the radar for both the San Antonio Spurs and the New York Knicks.One of the pivotal moments that has been a bit forgotten was Stephon Castle getting called for being out of bounds with 1:03 left. In fact, that was the wrong call because Josh Hart actually impeded his path and fouled him.Stephon Castle could have had free throws late in Game 4Castle has been quite clutch in the NBA Finals when it comes to his free-throw shooting. With only a minute left, Castle could have taken the lead for the Spurs earlier. He did have two trips to the line 30 seconds later, but it would have been a cushion for the Spurs.If that happened, the infamous De'Aaron Fox layup attempt would have been prevented. The Spurs could have tied the series at 2-2 and prevented the massive collapse that is now going down in NBA history.MORE: How the Knicks stole Game 4 of the NBA Finals vs the SpursOf course, the Spurs are not the only team that could have benefited from the referees. The Knicks also had a missed call, and that was a defensive three-second violation by Victor Wembanyama in the possession before the Castle out-of-bounds call.Moving forward, the referees will have the spotlight on them yet again. This has been one of the most physical series in recent history, but the referees have mostly called it down the middle.There have been some lapses here and there, which is clear in this Last Two Minute Report from Game 4. This will be even bigger in Game 5, which will give the Knicks a chance to close it out.More NBA news:Tyler Adams and the USMNT had a viral reaction to the Knicks' Game 4 winDraymond Green had to apologize to Jalen Brunson after Game 4The fans threw some eggs at Victor Wembanyama after Game 4Karl-Anthony Towns got away with using the fans to help him in the final play of Game 4Iman Shumpert calls out De'Aaron Fox for his layup attempt

Who are the two World Cup history-makers in South Korea’s clash with Czechia?Ollie Whitmore, Chief football news reporterMiroslav Koubek and Jens Castrop are making history in South Korea’s World Cup clash with Czechia, both reflective of their own unique journeys through football.Hours after South Africa boss Hugo Broos – born on the 10th of April 1951 – set the record as the oldest in the tournament’s history at 74 years old, but at seven months and nine days his senior Czechia boss Koubek has just renewed it in Guadalajara, Mexico.The Czech was born in September 1951 and his managerial began in 1983, 43 years before this year’s finals, when he took over at third tier side SK Kladno one year on from his 11-year playing career coming to an end.He has been in charge of 15 others since then – including the country’s giants Slavia Prague and the Under 19 national team.But his title as the most seasoned veteran among managers to ever lead a country through a World Cup won’t be safe for long, with 78-year-old Dutchman Dick Advocaat set to break the record yet again when debutants Curaçao face Germany on Sunday.Ghana manager Carlos Quieroz and former Leeds boss Marco Bielsa, now in charge of Uruguay, make up the remaining managers aged over 70 at this year’s World Cup, of which there are four.As for Castrop, though the Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder has been sat on the bench as the game approaches its final moments, he became the first foreign-born, mixed-heritage player to ever be called up to a World Cup tournament by South Korea.The 22-year-old, born to a German father and South Korean mother, has spent the entirety of his career in Germany but never managed to break into the national set up, making his Bundesliga debut for Gladbach last August.In an interview with The Korea Times, Castrop revealed that his father was “very shocked” yet proud to learn he had switched allegiances, with his mother previously recounting telling him: “Your roots are Korean, and you must have a Korean identity.”“My son’s heart is in Korea,” she added. “It is Korean, no matter what. He does not spare himself, he has a strong sense of discipline, he restrains himself from doing things.“When he has free time, he walks his dog or goes fishing instead of going to parties. He focuses on football.”Players are normally restricted to representing just one country by FIFA, world football’s governing body, if they make one appearance for their senior national team. Castrop hadn’t ever represented Germany, meaning he was free to make the switch.Dual nationals who wish to do the same but have made senior appearances can still do so via the ‘one-time switch‘, allowing players that have made no more than three senior appearances for their previous nation while under the age of 21.They must also ensure that none of them came at any continental championships, like the FIFA World Cup, three years have passed since their last appearance, and that they were eligible to represent their desired nation while playing under their old flag.

Raiders trade rumor could lead to monumental midseason deal with 49ers originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.With the offseason inching closer to the end with each passing day, several franchises will likely turn their attention toward the in-season trade market. Per Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer, the San Francisco 49ers are a team to monitor closely, as there’s a particular move they could make on the defensive side of the ball to put the NFL on notice. To be specific, Breer has a hunch that the 49ers could partner with the Las Vegas Raiders to complete a trade that would land them a five-time Pro Bowl edge rusher. "I love the idea (of San Francisco acquiring Maxx Crosby), and I think the 49ers are always open to these types of deals,” Breer wrote Wednesday. "But if I were them, I think I'd wait a bit before diving all-in. Let's see how that core looks over the first month or two of the season.”“The last thing you'd want, I think, is to see a bunch of guys get old at once right after you sold off assets you'd need to get younger. But if the Niners are, say, 6-1, and the Raiders are 1-6, and Crosby is balling out, that's where, if I'm (John) Lynch, I'm thinking about picking up the phone.”The fact that the 49ers have been linked to pass rushers such as Joey Bosa, Alex Highsmith, and Jadeveon Clowney recently shows there are legitimate doubts about the organization’s current edge rushing unit. As Breer noted, though, even if the 49ers, who only finished with 20 sacks last season, perform well to start the new season, they could make their presence felt in the midseason Crosby trade sweepstakes. The Eastern Michigan product was nearly traded to the Baltimore Ravens earlier this offseason, but the Ravens didn’t like what they saw from the former fourth-round pick from a health perspective, causing them to back out of the deal.Crosby recorded 73 tackles, 53 total pressures, 31 hurries, 12 hits, 10 sacks, and two forced fumbles with the Raiders in 2025-26, showcasing his ability to be a difference-maker on the edge regardless of his matchups. A potential Crosby-49ers pairing is one to keep tabs on during the upcoming campaign.More NFL: Steelers blockbuster trade rumor could lead to deal with Commanders, Eagles, Bills, or 49ersBears named landing spot for $123 million 115-sack Steelers star LBEagles named top landing spot for former Cowboys $21 million starter

Softball season may still be weeks away, but Sequoyah already knows the road it must navigate.The Lady Eagles recently released a schedule packed with familiar rivals, tournament appearances and a demanding district slate that will challenge them from opening day through Senior Night.Sequoyah will begin preparations with a trio of preseason scrimmages, hosting Mannford on July 28 before traveling to Jay on Aug. 4 and Booker T. Washington on Aug. 6.The regular season officially opens Aug. 10 with a road trip to Salina, followed by the first district contest of the year one day later when Dewey visits Sequoyah.District play arrives early and often.The Lady Eagles will face Dewey twice within the first week of the season, with the return trip scheduled for Aug. 17. A road district game at Adair follows Aug. 18 before Sequoyah returns home to face Lincoln Christian on Aug. 24.Between district contests, Sequoyah will participate in the Nowata Tournament on Aug. 14-15 and host the annual Sequoyah Festival Tournament on Aug. 21-22, one of the marquee events on the local softball calendar.Nondistrict matchups against Rejoice Christian, Inola and Nowata round out a busy August schedule before the Lady Eagles close the month with a district road trip to Kansas on Aug. 31.September begins with another important district contest at Lincoln Christian on Sept. 1.Additional district games include Salina on Sept. 8, Commerce on Sept. 10 and Sept. 22, Adair on Sept. 14 and Kansas on Sept. 15. Those contests figure to play a major role in determining the district race and postseason positioning.Outside of district competition, Sequoyah will face a variety of opponents from across northeastern Oklahoma, including NOAH, Rejoice Christian, Wyandotte, Jay, Mannford, Inola and Beggs.The Lady Eagles will also compete in the Oklahoma Union Tournament on Sept. 17 and Sept. 19, giving them a third tournament opportunity during the regular season.One notable stretch comes in mid-September when Sequoyah plays four district games in an eight-day span against Salina, Commerce, Adair and Kansas.The regular season concludes with a home-heavy finish featuring Jay on Sept. 24, Inola on Sept. 28 and Beggs on Sept. 29. The Beggs matchup will serve as Senior Night.SEQUOYAH 2026 SOFTBALL SCHEDULEJULYJuly 28 — Mannford (scrimmage)AUGUSTAug. 4 — at Jay (scrimmage)Aug. 6 — at Booker T. Washington (scrimmage)Aug. 10 — at SalinaAug. 11 — Dewey*Aug. 14-15 — Nowata TournamentAug. 17 — at Dewey*Aug. 18 — at Adair*Aug. 21-22 — Sequoyah FestivalAug. 24 — Lincoln Christian*Aug. 25 — Rejoice ChristianAug. 27 — at InolaAug. 28 — NowataAug. 31 — at Kansas*SEPTEMBERSept. 1 — at Lincoln Christian*Sept. 3 — NOAHSept. 8 — Salina*Sept. 10 — at Commerce*Sept. 12 — at Rejoice ChristianSept. 14 — Adair*Sept. 15 — Kansas*Sept. 17/19 — Oklahoma Union TournamentSept. 21 — at WyandotteSept. 22 — Commerce*Sept. 24 — JaySept. 26 — at MannfordSept. 28 — InolaSept. 29 — Beggs (Senior Night)* = district games

One by one, valuable works by Russian masters like Pushkin and Gogol were disappearing from libraries across Europe. Now six defendants are being prosecuted.

The second day of the World Cup features the other two host nations after Mexico officially got the tournament underway on Thursday. Here's what you need to know as Group B and Group D get started and the United States officially begins its World Cup campaign.Canada vs. Bosnia-HerzegovinaFriday, June 12 | 3 p.m. ET | Toronto | TV: FoxOdds: Canada (-125), Bosnia-Herzegovina (+340), Tie (+250)The first World Cup game ever in Canada will be played without the country's most famous player. Bayern Munich left back Alphonso Davies is set to miss the game as he's still recovering from a hamstring injury. Davies was limited to just 23 games across all competitions for Bayern Munich this past season and made just eight starts. He's played only 32 league games over the past two seasons because of injury. He tore an ACL in March of 2025.Without Davies on the left flank — he will play in midfield for the national team — Canada isn't as strong going forward on that side. Can Juventus midfielder Jonathan David and forward Cyle Larin help pick up the slack? A win will go a long way for Canada to get first in what looks to be an incredibly even group.Bosnia-Herzegovina made the World Cup after knocking off Italy in a UEFA playoff final on penalties. The Bosnians are in their second World Cup as an independent nation and last made the tournament in 2014.The team is led by 40-year-old striker Eden Dźeko and were absolutely scuffling before manager Sergej Barbarez was appointed in 2024. Since Barbarez has been the coach, Bosnia is a team that doesn't play the prettiest soccer and won't be dominating possession at the World Cup. But it's certainly an effective brand of play.United States vs. ParaguayFriday, June 12 | 9 p.m. ET | Los Angeles | TV: FoxOdds: United States (-110), Paraguay (+320), Tie (+240)Anything less than a win on Friday night can be considered a disappointment for the United States. The U.S. has never made it past the quarterfinals in modern World Cup history and can't settle for simply another one-and-done performance in the knockout rounds. Especially since 32 teams now qualify for the elimination stages.Defender Chris Richards could return to the lineup after missing the two warmup matches because of an ankle injury suffered with his Crystal Palace club team. Richards is the United States' best center back. Yes, 35-year-old Tim Ream is the captain, but Richards' presence is desperately needed if the U.S. is going to make it to the quarterfinals.Under coach Mauricio Pochettino, the U.S. is likely to play a 3-4-2-1 formation with wingbacks Sergiño Dest and Antonee Robinson pushed a little further forward into the midfield to provide width for Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie.Paraguay will likely be without star attacker Julio Enciso after he suffered a knee injury a week ago in the team's last tuneup match. Enciso could return later in the World Cup.Enciso plays behind striker Antonio Sanabria, who will now be the focal point of the Paraguay attack. Sanabria has made 48 appearances for Paraguay since his debut in 2013 but has scored just seven goals.

The reports this week are that Pat McAfee’s next ESPN deal could be worth somewhere between $60 million and $65 million annually.Sixty-five million dollars. The immediate reaction is obvious. Is any media personality worth that kind of money? Is any host, analyst, insider, or commentator worth what some NFL quarterbacks make?It’s a fair question. It’s also probably the wrong one. The more interesting question is what ESPN’s willingness to pay that kind of money says about ESPN itself. For most of its history, ESPN operated under a very simple philosophy: nobody was bigger than ESPN. Not Chris Berman, Dan Patrick, Keith Olbermann, or Stuart Scott. Not anybody.SportsCenter was the star. The highlights and brand was the star. The four letters mattered more than the person sitting behind the desk. Those personalities became household names, but ESPN always projected the same message. Talent would come and go. SportsCenter would remain. Viewers were loyal to ESPN, not necessarily the individuals appearing on it.That philosophy built one of the most successful media companies in American history.Changing StrategyToday, however, ESPN is a very different place. The network no longer markets SportsCenter the way it once did with its iconic “This Is SportsCenter” commercials. The highlights are no longer the centerpiece of the operation.Instead, ESPN markets personalities. Pat McAfee. Stephen A. Smith. Adam Schefter. The stars often feel larger than the shows they appear on. The center of gravity has shifted. SportsCenter used to be the destination. Now, the destination is whoever has the audience. If the reported mega-deal figures surrounding McAfee are accurate, ESPN is willing to spend accordingly.The company can afford it. ESPN remains one of the most valuable businesses in media. It generates an estimated $16 billion to $18 billion annually through affiliate fees, advertising, streaming, digital operations, and licensing. This isn’t a struggling company desperately throwing money around.Stephen A. Smith reportedly earns about $20 million annually. Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, Kirk Herbstreit, and the network’s elite game analysts reportedly sit somewhere in the $15 million to $20 million range. Adam Schefter remains among the highest-paid insiders in sports media.Now McAfee could reportedly be headed toward $60 million. The money isn’t disappearing. It’s concentrating. Which is why ESPN increasingly resembles an NFL roster more than a television network.The old ESPN looked like a baseball team. Lots of contributors. Lots of depth. Everybody had a role. The organization was the star.The modern ESPN looks like a franchise that just handed its quarterback a record-setting extension. Patrick Mahomes gets paid. Josh Allen gets paid. Joe Burrow gets paid. Then the front office starts looking around the roster and wondering who else it can afford.That’s not necessarily criticism. It’s simply how modern media works.Weighing WorthThe executives making these decisions aren’t grading talent based on whether traditional media members approve. They’re looking at audience engagement, YouTube views, and podcast downloads. Also sponsorship opportunities, social reach, and digital consumption. Younger audiences who don’t consume media the same way previous generations did.Viewed through that lens, McAfee starts making a lot more sense. His audience follows him everywhere. His clips live for days, interviews become news, and show creates conversation. Sometimes he is the conversation. Attention has become the most valuable currency in media. McAfee generates it. Stephen A. generates it. Schefter generates it. That’s why they’re getting paid.But every general manager knows the danger of building around stars. Once you pay one superstar, every other superstar notices.If McAfee ends up making $60 million while Stephen A. Smith sits around $20 million, do we think his agent isn’t paying attention? Do we think comparisons aren’t being made behind closed doors? Quarterbacks reset markets. Now media stars do, too.The moment one contract explodes, every other negotiation changes. Unlike the ESPN of old, today’s personalities aren’t necessarily interchangeable. SportsCenter survived talent departures because the audience belonged to ESPN. Today’s stars operate differently.Each weekday, the sports world pulls up to the ThunderDome Last month, The @PatMcAfeeShow recorded its best May EVER! Fueled by NFL headlines, NBA & NHL Playoffs, MLB action & everything in betweenMore: https://t.co/RVB1LdfTm3pic.twitter.com/KMdIQ4srfa— ESPN PR (@ESPNPR) June 9, 2026Pat McAfee built an audience before ESPN. Stephen A. Smith’s audience extends beyond ESPN. Their clips reach millions of people who may never actually watch ESPN itself. Their personal brands have become businesses. If one leaves, some portion of the audience leaves, too.That’s the tradeoff.The old ESPN owned the audience. The new ESPN rents it. Which raises another fascinating question.If McAfee left tomorrow, could ESPN simply build another Pat McAfee? If Stephen A. walked away, could ESPN manufacture another Stephen A. Smith? History suggests personalities like that don’t get created in conference rooms. ESPN isn’t paying for another host. It’s paying because it knows there probably isn’t another Pat McAfee available.Everyone Is WatchingOver the past decade, ESPN has gone through multiple rounds of layoffs while simultaneously handing out massive contracts to a select few stars. One does not necessarily cause the other. Corporate restructurings are more complicated than that. Rights fees increase. Streaming priorities change. Revenue shifts.Still, it’s impossible not to notice the optics. Every time a superstar signs a record deal, somebody else is wondering whether there’s room left under the cap. Which brings us back to the original question.Is Pat McAfee worth $60 million a year? Maybe he is. The numbers, engagement, and audience growth may very well justify it. But that isn’t the story. The story is that ESPN has completely changed its philosophy. For decades, ESPN sold the network. It sold SportsCenter. It sold highlights.Now it sells personalities. If Pat McAfee signs the richest deal in sports media history, it will be the ultimate confirmation that the company which once believed nobody was bigger than the ESPN brand is now betting that a few people are.Just like every NFL team that builds around a franchise quarterback, ESPN is wagering that its stars are worth the investment.The only question is whether there’s enough cap space left to build the rest of the roster.Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.John LundWith decades of experience behind the mic, John Lund is more than a sports commentator and weekly columnist for Barrett Media—he’s a storyteller, humorist, and true fan. He’s hosted shows in mid sized markets like Pittsburgh and Salt Lake City to larger cities like San Francisco, Detroit and Dallas. John has even hosted nationally on ESPN Radio. Known for his sharp wit and deep sports knowledge, John welcomes your feedback. Reach him on X @JohnLundRadio or by email at John@JohnLundRadio.com.barrettmedia.comThe post Why Pat McAfee’s Reported ESPN Extension Is About Far More Than Just Money appeared first on Barrett Media.

ESPN is owning the stretch run of the NBA and the NHL. From the magic of the New York Knicks’ postseason run to introducing the country to different faces in different markets during the Stanley Cup Final, every step of the way ESPN has become the center of the sports fan’s ecosystem.Meeting the moment is no small task. Talent decisions are made. Licensing deals are cut. Rights agreements are signed. In the end, the goal is the final result that we’ve been witnessing in what could possibly be considered the network’s finest moment. What a way to roll into a season with its first Super Bowl broadcast ahead.The NBA FinalsFrom an NBA standpoint, ESPN has elevated its game. Despite criticism from some (including myself) about Inside the NBA’s impact this season on ESPN, the NBA Finals showcase what made the program the best in the industry for generations: unique insight, no-holds-barred opinion, and light humor to match the moment.It also helps to be in the world’s most famous arena when the lights shine brightest. This is a home-court advantage that ESPN knew it had, and the network has delivered the goods. A balance of objectivity with a lean into celebrity pulls at the heartstrings and interests of different audiences. The social media approach to capturing engagement and embracing moments continues to set a high standard.Then there’s Mike Breen. In an age when complaints run rampant about bias from using hometown voices on national platforms, Breen has met the challenge. He’s navigated the call like a brilliant virtuoso, finding avenues to mix his new broadcast team of Richard Jefferson and Tim Legler into his symphony. You would never know this was the first NBA Finals for the broadcast team, and that’s the magic Breen possesses.Mix in the precise strategy of timing, pace, and choosing the right spots for analysis and insight. ESPN has delivered more than the NBA expected, but exactly what it wanted.The viewership totals can be debated. Of course, the New York Knicks in the NBA Finals are going to draw viewers. However, for two teams with stars, but not true superstars who are bigger than the sport, they’re bringing in an audience not seen since “The Last Dance.”It takes more than just a game to do that.The Stanley Cup FinalFrom an NHL standpoint, this is the more impressive story of the two. Through the first three games of the Stanley Cup Final, the series is seeing its best viewership in more than a decade. Non-traditional markets such as Raleigh, NC, and Las Vegas, NV, many would consider not exactly ideal for the NHL. But following six years of a team from Florida being represented in the Cup Final, viewership is nearly doubling compared to each of the last three Cup Finals.SHEA THEODORE IS THE OT HERO pic.twitter.com/wmSzfuZQBV— Vegas Golden Knights (@GoldenKnights) June 7, 2026So far, we’ve seen an overtime winner, a double-overtime winner, and the fastest natural hat trick in Stanley Cup Final history. Sean McDonough is cementing his voice with every game into the lore that “Doc” Emrick and Gary Thorne own among hockey fans across the country. P.K. Subban is a natural showman, playing Robin to Mark Messier’s Batman. The presentation carries high drama, with games scheduled on opposite nights of the NBA Finals.There’s no doubt that a number of factors likely play into the numbers. First, with the increased viewership of the NBA Finals, there’s likely some crossover from the cross-promotion of the other series on the same network. Additionally, the Big Data + Panel measurement launched last September surely helps. Team USA beating Canada likely reintroduced a number of people to hockey entering its final stretch.However, much like the NBA, ESPN has owned the moment. Every game captures the drama that makes the Stanley Cup the hardest trophy to win in all of sports. Those moments go viral, with ESPN personalities becoming part of the engagement surrounding them.Tip The CapFor years, ESPN has been criticized for what it wasn’t doing. Not enough promotion. Not enough storytelling, or even enough attention paid to certain properties. Fair or unfair, those critiques have followed the network through multiple eras. But right now, those conversations feel very distant.The NBA Finals and Stanley Cup Final have become appointment viewing. Not simply because of who’s playing, but because of how they’re being presented. ESPN has found the right balance between turning the games into events, amplifying the personalities, and allowing the competition itself to remain the star.That’s not easy in an era when every highlight, opinion, and controversy is fighting for attention. The network can’t control who reaches the championship round. It can’t script overtime winners, historic performances, or viral moments. What it can control is how those moments are packaged, promoted, and delivered to fans.Over the past month, ESPN has done that as well as anyone in sports television. With the NBA and NHL both thriving on its airwaves, and a Super Bowl still waiting on the horizon, ESPN isn’t just carrying the sports conversation.It’s driving it.Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.John MamolaJohn Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.linktr.ee/johnmamolaThe post ESPN May Be Having Its Finest Moment When It Matters Most appeared first on Barrett Media.

PREVIEW | Australia vs Turkey: team news, lineups, predictions (World Cup 14/06)Australia and Turkey go head-to-head at BC Place this Sunday in the World Cup. Australia mark their 7th participation in the competition, whilst Turkey go into their 3rd. The match will be broadcast live at 05:00 on ITV 1.In their last fixture, Australia shared the spoils 1-1 with Switzerland (National Team Friendlies 2026). Last time out, Turkey triumphed 1-2 against Venezuela (National Team Friendlies 2026).The last meeting between the two teams ended with Turkey winning 1-0.UnavailableAustráliaTurquiaLast starting XIsAustralia ( vs Switzerland 2026-06-06): Patrick Beach, Aziz Behich, Harry Souttar, Lucas Herrington, Alessandro Circati, Kai Trewin, Aiden O’Neill, Paul Okon, Tete Yengi, Cristian Volpato, Nestory IrankundaTurkey ( vs Venezuela 2026-06-06): Uğurcan Çakır, Abdülkerim Bardakcı, Evren Elmali, Ozan Kabak, Zeki Çelik, Ismail Yuksek, Orkun Kökcu, Arda Güler, Irfan Kahveci, Baris Yılmaz, Deniz Gül

Carolina's Andrei Svechnikov scores in the Hurricanes' 4-2 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights in game five of the NHL Stanley Cup Final (BRUCE BENNETT)Carolina's Andrei Svechnikov scored two power-play goals to help the Hurricanes beat the Vegas Golden Knights 4-2 on Thursday to move within one win of capturing the NHL Stanley Cup.The Hurricanes seized a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven championship series and will try to close it out on the road in Las Vegas on Sunday."It required everything we have," Hurricanes captain Jordan Staal told broadcaster ESPN. "I thought everyone in the group all through the lineup was dialed in tonight."It required everything, and it's going to require everything to finish this off."Staal scored for the fifth straight game, Sebastian Aho added a goal and Carolina goaltender Brandon Bussi made 22 saves in his second straight start -- becoming the first goalie in NHL history to make his first two career playoff starts in the Stanley Cup Final and win both.Pavel Dorofeyev scored twice for Vegas, his power play goal less than even minutes into the opening period putting the Golden Knights up 1-0.Staal struck less than five minutes later, redirecting a Nikolaj Ehlers shot past Golden Knights goalie Carter Hart and into the net.Staal became the fifth player to have a five-game goal streak in the Stanley Cup Final and just the fourth to score in five straight games to start a Cup Final.Svechnikov gave Carolina a 2-1 lead with a power-play goal from the top of the left circle at 11:58 of the second period and Aho pushed the lead to 3-1 at 17:51.Svechnikov's second power-play goal, from in front of the right post at 13:49 of the second made it 4-1.But Dorofeyev clawed one back with his second goal of the night at 13:49 of the third.That raised the tension at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina, where fans were well aware that the series had seen multi-goal deficits erased in each of the first four games.But the Hurricanes held on to move one win away from a second Stanley Cup title to go with the one they won back in 2006.The Golden Knights, who won their only Stanley Cup in 2023, were without William Karlsson for much of the contest after the center exited in the second period with an apparent arm injury.bb/jgc

Oil prices retreated and stocks rallied after President Trump called off plans for another day of strikes on Iran, saying that a peace deal could be within reach.

A court ruled that Yoon Suk Yeol, the impeached former president, had sought to stir up instability to justify his bid for authoritarian rule in 2024.

Jayson Tatum Explains How New Celtics Owners Have 'Different Energy' originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Boston Celtics have endured many changes over the last two years, both on and off the court.On the court, the Celtics have already moved on from much of their 2024 championship core, parting ways with Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday, Al Horford and Luke Kornet.Off the court, the franchise was sold to a new ownership group led by Bill Chisholm, a very wealthy die-hard Celtics fan.Ownership changes can affect the entire organization, and Jayson Tatum has already noticed a difference.Jayson Tatum on new owner Bill Chisholm:“Bill and his wife they’ve brought a different energy… He has the mindset that he wants to push this thing forward. And you know hopefully very soon we get another crack at winning a championship.” pic.twitter.com/WlLq3h895K— jb (@lockedupjb) June 11, 2026"Bill and his wife, they’ve brought a different energy with the way that they interact with fans and the crowd during games. How excited they are, it's really cool to see," Tatum told Front Office Sports this week. "His passion for the game, he truly is a fan."That's been evident during Chisholm's tenure, as his passion has been on full display. He attends most home games and can often be seen sitting courtside, getting fired up when the team is playing well.Passionate ownership is often committed to winning, and that appears to be the case with Chisholm. Hopefully the Celtics can reward him with a championship soon.More NBA: There's Only One Player Celtics Aren't Willing To Trade For Giannis Antetokounmpo

MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 15: Kylian Mbappe of France celebrates after scoring his team's fourth goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Michael Regan - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)FIFA via Getty ImagesA one-of-a-kind collection of jerseys worn by some of the greatest soccer players in history are on display in New York just in time for the FIFA World Cup, allowing fans the chance to get a rare look at the iconic threads. The three-day exhibit, running now through Sunday, features an impressive lineup that includes shirts of legends such as Diego Maradona, Roberto Baggio, Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe. The pop-up was curated by MatchWornShirt, a Dutch-based company that specializes in auctioning game-worn jerseys. The company said the exhibit will get American fans in the World Cup spirit as well as turn some of them into future shirt collectors. The World Cup, which runs through July 19, is co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. The tournament features an expanded field of 48 teams and includes 104 matches. “The next five weeks will really help soccer grow in America. It’s the biggest sporting event in the world, and even though soccer hasn't traditionally been the top priority for every American sports fan, I hope that seeing the European and Asian crowds and how passionately they celebrate the game will encourage more Americans to get on board,” said Bob Zonderwijk, who founded MatchWornShirt with his brother Tijmen. “I think that enthusiasm can be contagious.” The jerseys on display hailed from several places, including players’ closets, museums and collectors scattered around the world. For example, the Maradona jersey, from his 1990 World Cup match against the Soviet Union, is owned by an Italian collector. “We put a lot of effort into [the exhibit],” Zonderwijk said. “There are famous names everyone knows, like Ronaldo and Mbappe. These aren’t just random jerseys. They represent defining moments in World Cup history.” SALVADOR, BRAZIL - JUNE 13: Robin van Persie of the Netherlands scores the equalising goal during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group B match between Spain and Netherlands at Arena Fonte Nova on June 13, 2014 in Salvador, Brazil. (Photo by Ryan Pierse - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)FIFA via Getty ImagesOther notable jerseys include the one worn by Italy midfielder Marco Tardelli when he scored in the 1982 World Cup final against West Germany and Robin van Persie’s incredible leaping header against Spain at the 2014 World Cup. On hand for the June 11 preview was former PSG and Juventus midfielder Blaise Matuidi, who won the World Cup in 2018 with France. Seeing Mbappe’s jersey from that final against Croatia brought back a flood of memories. “I remember when the referee blew the final whistle at the end of the game,” he recalled. “It was a sensation I had never experienced in my life. Something special that we cannot even describe with words.” Matuidi said his jersey from that match is at home. “I remember it started raining and everything got very wet, but it was OK. It was a good rain,” he added. “We had time to slide on the pitch and enjoy that moment together.” Matuidi said the exhibit was a chance for soccer fans to relive memories of World Cups past. “Football is the best sport in the world,” he said. “I know we’re in America, but worldwide football is the best. It brings people together from all around the world to share time together and enjoy watching the best players in the world.” For MatchWornShirt, the exhibit is also a chance to let Americans know that many jerseys from this current World Cup could be theirs. Zonderwijk said the American market for soccer jersey collecting has seen tremendous growth in recent years. “We work with more than 20 of the participating nations, including several contenders for the title,” Zonderwijk said. “We also work with all three host nations — Mexico, Canada, and the United States — and as soon as matches begin, fans can bid on the jerseys the players are wearing in real time.” In May 2025, MatchWornShirt signed an exclusive deal with U.S. Soccer to auction off game-worn men’s and women’s national team shirts. MatchWornShirt currently has agreements with over 300 club and national teams around the world, including back-to-back Champions League winners PSG. While Matuidi said France has a shot at the title, Zonderwijk imagined a scenario that would make collectors salivate. “If Ronaldo were to reach the final and potentially win his first World Cup, that would be a huge moment,” he said. “There are a lot of opportunities ahead.” Clemente Lisi is the author of “The World Cup: A History of the Planet’s Biggest Sporting Event, 2026 Edition.” This article was originally published on Forbes.com

Oh Hyeon-gyu (centre) celebrates after scoring South Korea's winner in their World Cup winner (Ulises RUIZ)South Korea got their World Cup campaign off to a winning start by beating the Czech Republic 2-1 Thursday after finally converting some of the many chances they created.Until the 80th-minute mark it seemed that the Czechs would punish the Koreans' wastefulness, but substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu scored the decisive goal in a Guadalajara stadium that was far from full.Son Heung-min's Koreans had dominated the first half but were unable to find the net.The former Tottenham star blasted one effort over the bar before making a driving run to his left and evading two Czech defenders only to shoot wide.An entertaining second half began with the Czechs scoring against the run of play as Ladislav Krejci rose at the front post to power a header past Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu.Hwang In-beom finally made the Korean pressure pay with a clever equalizer as he faked a shot and then caressed the ball over Czech 'keeper Matek Kovar on 67 minutes.The Czechs had a goal disallowed before Hwang added to his goal with an assist, crossing from the right for Oh to slot home.When the final whistle sounded after a frantic end to the game, Son sank to the turf in joy.South Korea face co-hosts Mexico, who beat South Africa 2-0 in the tournament's opening Group A game earlier Thursday, on June 18.The Czechs play the South Africans in Atlanta on the same day.gj/bb

The World Cup 2026 saw thousands of empty seats in just the second match to further raise the controversy surrounding Fifa’s ticket prices for the spectacle. South Korea defeated Czech Republic 2-1 in a gripping Group A contest in Guadalajara. But amid controversy surrounding the ticket prices at the tournament, with Fifa president Gianni Infantino defending the dynamic pricing policy at his press conference on the eve of the tournament. But during the contest at the Estadio Akron, thousands of empty red seats could be seen throughout the stadium. Despite the match failing to reach a full capacity, the atmosphere remained lively with South Korea and Czech Republic fans heard throughout the contest. Ladislav Krejci had put Czech Republic in front before Hwang In Beom’s equaliser, and Oh Hyeon Gyu’s winner. Empty seats are seen in the stands during the match (REUTERS)Fifa opted to cut prices for its 104 matches in recent weeks, while a reported 180,000 tickets remained listed across Fifa’s official resale portals ahead of the tournament. The pricing policy has seen the cheapest standard ticket to the final reach at reported $5,785, with some tickets reaching five figures. The issue has clouded the build-up to the tournament, with Fifa even claiming to have received over 500 million booking requests.Empty seats are seen in the stands during the match (REUTERS)While Infantino’s defence surrounding the ticket prices centred on his belief that the Fifa World Cup was a bigger event than the NBA Finals, which has seen exorbitant prices for the Knicks v Spurs series. Politicians in New York and New Jersey have launched a formal investigation after allegations fans were left confused by Fifa over the inflated prices of tickets.Complaints centre on a lack of clarity over waiting times in online queues and the eventual prices should fans succeed.Fifa has been contacted for comment

South Korea's Oh Hyeon-gyu (R) scores his side's second goal during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A soccer match between South Korea and Czech Republic at Guadalajara Stadium. -/YNA/dpaSouth Korea fought back for a deserved 2-1 victory in their World Cup opener against the Czech Republic on Thursday.They were the better team throughout the game, forcing Czech keeper Matej Kovar into several big saves, but fell behind in the 59th minute.Against the run of play, a clinical long throw-in found Ladislav Krejčí, who broke the deadlock with a header.South Korea equalized in the 67th as Hwang In Beom chipped the ball over Kovac as they finally managed to beat the keeper.The Czechs thought they had the lead again in the 77th, but Tomas Soucek's effort was ruled out for offside.Just three minutes later, South Korea were on target again with substitute Oh Hyeon Gyu scoring the deserved winner.South Korea are tied on three points at the top of Group A with co-hosts Mexico, who earlier defeated South Africa 2-0.The Czech Republic are returning to the World Cup for the first time since Germany 2006.South Korea's Hwang In-beom celebrates scoring his side's first goal during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A soccer match between South Korea and Czech Republic at Guadalajara Stadium. -/YNA/dpaSouth Korea's Hwang In-beom (R) scores his side's first goal during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A soccer match between South Korea and Czech Republic at Guadalajara Stadium. -/YNA/dpaCzech Republic's Ladislav Krejci (R) celebrates scoring his side's first goal during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A soccer match between South Korea and Czech Republic at Guadalajara Stadium. -/YNA/dpaCzech Republic's Ladislav Krejci (4th R) scores his side's first goal during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A soccer match between South Korea and Czech Republic at Guadalajara Stadium. -/YNA/dpa

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — A’ja Wilson scored 32 points for her second straight game with at least 30, Chelsea Gray had 29 points and tied a WNBA record with a career-high nine 3-pointers and the Las Vegas Aces beat the Portland Fire 105-89 on Thursday night for their fifth straight victory. Gray tied the mark with 2:35 left in the fourth quarter to give Las Vegas a 101-86 lead. She was 9 of 13 from distance, while Portland went 8 for 26 as a team. Wilson, who scored 34 points in a 101-91 victory over Seattle on Monday, was 10 of 20 from the field and 11 of 13 at the free-throw line. She moved into 16th place on the WNBA’s career scoring list and 14th on the rebounding list. Jackie Young had 18 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds, and NaLyssa Smith added 12 points and 10 rebounds for Las Vegas (9-3). Stephanie Talbot grabbed 10 rebounds.Carla Leite led Portland (6-8) with 18 points and Megan Gustafson added 17. Sarah Ashlee Barker scored 14 points and Bridget Carleton added 13. Wilson, Gray, Smith and Young each had double-digit points in the first half to help Las Vegas build a 56-50 lead. The Aces were 17 of 32 from the field (53%), including 8 of 13 from 3-point range, and 14 of 16 at the free throw line. Gray made six 3-pointers for 18 first-half points. Wilson scored 14 of Las Vegas' opening 16 points of the second half to take a 72-60 lead with 4:48 left in the third. The Aces led 85-74 after beginning the fourth on a 7-2 run. Up nextAces: Host Minnesota on Saturday. Fire: Stay home to play Dallas on Saturday. ___AP WNBA: https://apnews.com/hub/wnba-basketball

The Vegas Golden Knights lost more than Game 5 against the Carolina Hurricanes. They lost a key player.Golden Knights forward William Karlsson left the Thursday, June 11 game in the second period after absorbing a check from Hurricanes defenseman Sean Walker along the boards.A trainer looked at Karlsson's arm on the bench and Karlsson skated to the dressing room. He didn't return and ABC reported that Karlsson left Lenovo Center to undergo further examination.Golden Knights coach John Tortorella looked discouraged when the trainer came out to talk to him. He gave a discouraging postgame report on Karlsson's status for the rest of the series.William Karlsson rentre au vestiaire après cette mise en échec reçue... pic.twitter.com/2RoHCW48lZ— TVA Sports (@TVASports) June 12, 2026William Karlsson injury updateTortorella said he had no update on Karlsson but didn't sound positive about the player's status."He's not going to be with us probably," he said. "We've got to find a way to fill that void, not with just one guy but as a team."Karlsson had two goals and two assists in the Final. He was limited to 14 games in the regular season, but his return late in the regular season was one of several factors that helped the Golden Knights clinch a playoff berth."He's an important piece for us," Tortorella said. "Penalty killer. Power play guy. He's a winner."The Hurricanes lead the series 3-2 after the 4-2 victory and can clinch their first Stanley Cup title since 2006 on Sunday, June 14 in Game 6 at Las Vegas.This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: William Karlsson leaves Game 5, 'probably' out for series

Korey Lee played the hero lining a walk-off RBI double in the ninth inning to cap a wild 9-8 comeback win over the Comets. | (Mark J. Rebilas/Imagn Images) Charlotte Knights 9, Oklahoma City Comets 8The Knights (36-30) yanked a walk-off out of the chaos, toppling the Comets in a game that pinballed from the jump. Rikuu Nishida did his thing in the first — walk, swipe second, score on a Caden Connor double — then Dustin Harris with an RBI knock for a quick lead. Tyler Schweitzer issued three runs over the next two frames, but Connor blasted a solo shot in the fifth to knot things up. The Comets snatched the lead right back in the sixth, only for Harris to answer with a go-ahead bomb in the bottom half after Dru Baker worked a walk, and Mario Camilletti ripped an RBI triple to put Charlotte up 6-4.Unfortunately, the lead evaporated instantly. Charlotte’s defense went full Keystone Kops in the seventh, gifting the Comets an unearned run and letting Peyton Pallette, fresh off the Cleveland Guardians roster, get tagged for three earned. Suddenly it’s 8-6, Comets. But the Knights didn’t roll over. Baker coaxed another walk in the eighth, Camilletti doubled, and pinch-hitter Andy Weber came up huge with a two-run double to tie it at 8-8. Ben Peoples worked two final scoreless frames, allowing only one hit, one walk, and nothing else. In the ninth, Michael Turner laced a one-out double, and Korey Lee smoked a line-drive two-bagger to walk it off. It’s honestly wild to think how good the Knights would be with even league-average pitching. Their offense is an absolute machine, leading the International League in runs, RBIs, OBP, and OPS while ranking second in home runs, batting average, slugging percentage, walks, and hits.Who is the Knights MVP?3Caden Connor: 2-for-5, 2 R, 2 RBI, 2B, HRMichael Turner: 2-for-5, 2B, KKorey Lee: 1-for-5, RBI, 2B, 2 KDustin Harris: 2-for-4, R, 2 RBI, HR, K, ERyan Galanie: 1-for-4, 2B, 2 KDru Baker: 1-for-2, 2 R, 2 BB, EMario Camilletti: 2-for-4, 2 R, RBI, 2B, 3B, KAndy Weber: 1-for-1, 2 RBI, 2BZach Franklin: 1 2/3 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 2 KBen Peoples: 2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, BB, K, W pollcode.com free pollsWho is the Knights Cold Cat? Jason Matthews: 0-for-3, KTyler Schweitzer: 3 1/3 IP, 4 H, 3 R, 1 BB, 3 K, WP, HBPFrankeli Arias: 2/3 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 2 BB, BPeyton Pallette: 1 1/3 IP, 4 H, 4 R (3 ER), 2 K pollcode.com free pollsBirmingham Barons 8, Biloxi Shuckers 0The Barons (23-37) made this one a laugher early. Sprinkle got things rolling in the first with a walk, a swipe of second, and a jog home on Makarewicz’s RBI knock. Then came the fireworks: Jacob Burke detonated a three-run shot, and the fourth was a full-on burial with Anthony DePino’s three-run blast piling up an 8-0 cushion. Six of eight runs courtesy of the long ball. That’ll play.That was all the rope the Barons’ arms needed as Biloxi never really came close to a rally. Birmingham’s staff scattered six hits and fanned nine, with Gabe Davis handling the bulk of the work, tossing four scoreless innings with three hits, three walks, and three punchouts. Aric McAtee grabbed the win with two clean frames. The Shuckers had their chances with six walks and two Barons errors, but went ice-cold with runners on, a brutal 1-for-15 showing.Who was the Barons MVP?Alec Makarewicz: 2-for-3, R, 2 RBIAnthony DePino: 1-for-4, R, 3 RBI, KJacob Burke: 1-for-4, R, 3 RBIJeral Perez: 2-for-4, RGrant Magill: 1-for-3, R, BBWilfred Veras: 1-for-2, R, BB, KGabe Davis: 4 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 3 BB, 3 KCarson Jacobs: 2 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 3 BB, 3 KAric McAtee: 2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, K, WNick Altermatt: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 2 K pollcode.com free pollsWho was the Barons Cold Cat? Colby Shelton: 0-for-4, 2 EJordan Sprinkle: 0-for-3, R, BB, SB, 2 KSamuel Zavala: 0-for-3, R, BB, K pollcode.com free pollsWinston-Salem Dash 9, Greenville Drive 1The Dash (34-26) stomped Greenville, putting on a hitting and pitching clinic. Justin Sinibaldi came out dealing, tossing five shutout innings and scattering three hits, two walks, and five punchouts. The offense finally cracked the code in the fourth with Kaleb Freeman’s fifth bomb of the year, then Caleb Bonemer followed with a solo shot, his 18th of the season, in the sixth. The Dash bats never let up, racking up 11 hits and nine walks, and Ryan Burrowes ran wild with three steals, pushing his season total to 21. Not a bad night to be wearing Winston-Salem colors.The game turned into a rout in the seventh when the Dash erupted for six runs, highlighted by George Wolkow’s three-run blast, his ninth homer of the year. Greenville scratched across its lone run in the eighth, but James Taussig answered immediately with his first home run since joining the Dash yesterday. Winston-Salem’s hurlers combined to hold the Drive to just four hits, ensuring there would be no comeback.Who was the Dash MVP? Justin Sinibaldi: 5 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 5 K, WTrey Cooper: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 3 BB, 1 K, HDrew Conover: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 RKyle Lodise: 2-for-4, R, RBI, 2 BB, SB, ECaleb Bonemer: 1-for-6, R, RBI, HR, KRyan Burrowes: 1-for-3, R, 2 BB, 3 SB, KGeorge Wolkow: 1-for-4, R, 3 RBI, BB, HR, 2 KKaleb Freeman: 1-for-3, 2 R, RBI, 2 BB, HR, 2 K, PBArxy Hernández: 1-for-5, 2 KJames Taussig: 1-for-5, R, RBI, HRAlex Ungar: 2-for-4, R, RBI, BB, SB, KBryce Eblin: 1-for-4, R, BB, SB pollcode.com free pollsWho was the Dash Cold Cat?Jack Young: 2 IP, 1 H, 1 R, BB, KNo one! Everyone did great! pollcode.com free pollsKannapolis Cannon Ballers 6, Fredericksburg Nationals 4Kannapolis (31-29) spotted Fredericksburg a two-run head start off Riley Eikhoff, then got down to business in the third. Abraham Núñez poked a single, Matthew Boughton worked a walk, and Jaden Fauske cashed in Núñez with a base hit to make it 2-1. Then the Ballers took the lead in the fourth when Nathan Archer and Efren Teran ripped back-to-back doubles, Boughton drew another free pass, and a Fredericksburg miscue let Teran stroll home for a 3-2 advantage.Fredericksburg worked to tie it in the sixth, but the Ballers took command in the seventh with four straight walks, a Teran single, and suddenly it was 6-3. The Nats scratched out a run off Marco Barrios in the eighth, but that was all she wrote. Teran was everywhere, Boughton kept grinding out walks, and Kannapolis walked off with the W.Who was the Ballers MVP?Riley Eikhoff: 5 IP, 3 H, 2 R, BB, 6 KDaniel Wright: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, WLanden Payne: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, BB, SAbraham Núñez: 1-for-4, R, SB, KJaden Fauske: 1-for-4, RBI, BB, PO, KAlexander Albertus: 2-for-3, R, BB, SB, K, ENathan Archer: 1-for-3, R, RBI, BB, 2B, KEfren Teran: 2-for-4, R, 3 RBI, 2B pollcode.com free pollsWho was the Ballers Cold Cat?Matthew Boughton: 0-for-3, 2 BB, KStiven Flores: 0-for-5 Adrian Gil: 0-for-2, R, BB, KNick Weyrich: 1 IP, 1 H, 1 R, K, BS pollcode.com free pollsRookie LeaguesDSL Mariners 14, DSL White Sox 13 (10 innings)This was a full-on runfest, the kind of game where the scoreboard operator earns hazard pay. Both sides traded haymakers and, in a rare twist for the DSL’s usual seven-inning fare, they played into extras. Sox (3-5) up 12-11 after seven, but that was just the start. Tied at 13 after nine, so on to bonus baseball. The M’s cashed in their ghost runner with a couple of singles in the 10th and walked it off. The fireworks included bombs from Sebastian Romero (5) and Ronald Cardozo (1), a double from Dionys Medina, and a triple from Hector Hernandez. The pitching has seen better days. The Sox put out seven arms, all mostly battered. David Colmenares was the lone bright spot, getting two outs and surrendering no hits, no runs, one walk, and his ERA is still sparkling at 1.59.ACL Royals 10, ACL White Sox 2 (7 innings)The ACL White Sox (10-20) never stood a chance and faceplanted out of the gate. The carnage started early as Kansas City hung a quick three on the board, and while José M. Mendoza tried to spark something in the second with his sixth bomb of the season (a two-run shot), that flicker of hope was snuffed out fast. The second inning was a full-on disaster, with the Royals teeing off for six more runs. Justin Fuson wore nine earned runs, and Cesar Nunez allowed a solo shot in the fourth. The Sox bats never found an answer, managing just five hits and one walk as the Royals cruised the rest of the way.

Darron Lee's mugshotCredit: Hamilton County Sheriff's OfficeNEED TO KNOWFormer NFL linebacker Darron Lee was accused and charged in connection with the February murder of his girlfriend, Gabriella PerpetuoOn Tuesday, June 9, a grand jury indicted Lee on a first-degree murder charge but dismissed a tampering with evidence chargeHe faces a possible life sentence or death penalty and remains in jail without bond ahead of his June 17 court dateFormer NFL linebacker Darron Lee has been indicted on a first-degree murder charge.The former NFL pro, who played for the New York Jets, Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills, is accused of killing his girlfriend, Gabriella Perpetuo.On Tuesday, June 9, Hamilton County District Attorney Coty Wamp said that a grand jury returned the indictment and dismissed the tampering with evidence charge to focus on the murder charge, ESPN reports.The 29-year-old woman died of multiple blunt force injuries in February, a medical examiner reported, per ABC 9. She was found in her Ooltewah, Tenn., home and had 12 different injuries, including multiple hematomas, bone fractures, and stab wounds.He was arrested on Feb. 6 on a charge of murder. He was then accused of asking ChatGPT how to get medical help without alerting authorities. Allegedly, he used the artificial intelligence to learn if a fall could bruise someone's eyes and "two stabby looking wounds," per the outlet.Darron Lee on November 12, 2017 in Tampa, Florida.Credit: Cliff Welch/Icon Sportswire via GettyHe could face a life sentence in prison or the death penalty, the latter of which will be discussed in court in the coming weeks. He is due to appear in court on June 17. He remains in the Hamilton County Jail without bond.In April 2023, he was arrested on allegations of allegedly assaulting his mother and his then-girlfriend, Lindsey McGlone, and their son, who was 2 years old at the time. He was on probation following the assaults in Franklin County, Ohio. He was also on probation in Alachua County, Fla., for assaulting a man, per The Bleacher Report.PEOPLE reached out to the Hamilton County District Attorney for comment.Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or go to thehotline.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.Read the original article on People

MLB investigators plan to question Los Angeles Dodgers team physician Dr. Neal ElAttrache, according to a report June 11 from the New York Times' Michael S. Schmidt.Schmidt reported that ElAttrache disclosed that he supported professional mixed martial artist Conor McGregor's use of performance-enhancing drugs while recovering from injury.ElAttrache also serves as the Los Angeles' Rams team doctor.Schmidt reported that the NFL didn't return a message seeking comment about ElAttrache.Bengals QB Joe Burrow had knee surgery performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache.ElAttrache operated on Burrow's left knee in December 2025."(Burrow is) on track for full go for start of the season," ElAttrache wrote in a text, per ESPN's Adam Schefter, in May 2021. "He's doing all the work. He's worked his tail off and been an amazingly mature participant in his recovery. He's focused and great to work with."Burrow was a rookie when he suffered a season-ending knee injury in November 2020 on a hit by defensive tackle Jonathan Allen and defensive end Montez Sweat, against Washington.In March, Allen agreed to terms on a two-year deal with the Bengals.This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Dr. Neal ElAttrache, sports surgeon, operated on Joe Burrow in 2020

CBF's US Strategy: How Brazil's League Reform Connects to MLSCBF held an inaugural meeting with representatives of clubs from the Brazilian Serie A and B championships and the State Federations to begin the debate on the creation of a Football League in Brazil, with CBF president Samir Xaud calling it "a historic day for Brazilian football" as clubs came together "to discuss an issue that will define our future: the creation of a single league." The meetings represent the latest phase in CBF's broader internationalization strategy, which includes bringing Brazilian stakeholders to the United States to study league governance models.CBF's Miami Office as Strategic HubThe move marks the first step in a broader global network designed to strengthen the CBF brand, deepen commercial partnerships, engage the Brazilian diaspora, and expand technical collaboration with the United States Soccer Federation and Major League Soccer. Located near key stakeholders such as FIFA and CONCACAF, the Miami office operates as an embassy for Brazilian football, supporting sponsorship deals, institutional relationships, youth scouting initiatives, and women's development.Since opening the Miami office five to six months ago, CBF has already seen tangible results, closing new agreements with major companies such as Uber, Volkswagen, and iFood. These partnerships are the direct result of the relationships and communication being built from Miami within the broader CBF ecosystem.Learning from MLS Governance StructureThe analysis was deepened following an international immersion in Europe in January, when the Brazilian delegation learned about concepts, governance models and strategies used by the leagues and federations of England, Germany and Spain on topics such as financial fair play, technology and the professionalization of refereeing. The US meetings extend this research to North American models, particularly MLS's structure.The national governing organisation said that the league is undervalued and presented a plan to finalise the league's statutes by the end of 2026. If successful, the process could end the competition's division into two rival blocks of clubs – FFU and Libra – which has handicapped the league. At present, the two blocks compete over revenue and commercial rights.The Structural ChallengeCBF presented studies carried out since the first months of the current administration to show the full untapped potential of Brazilian football, whose top national division is nevertheless the sixth most valuable league in the world. The CBF listed a series of problems that needed addressing in Brazilian club football, including the match calendar, kick-off times, stadium infrastructure, financial fair play and marketing."The league needs to belong to the clubs. That is a fundamental, non-negotiable principle. CBF will be present, with an active role as mediator and one of the leaders of the process." This approach mirrors MLS's club-centric governance model, where individual franchises maintain significant autonomy within a centralized structure.Implications for US SoccerToday, there is significant movement between Brazil and MLS. Many Brazilian players are coming to MLS, and there are also transfers from MLS clubs to the Brazilian league, which is organized by CBF. Because of this exchange, it's essential for CBF to stay informed and bring the best insights and information back into our ecosystem.A unified Brazilian league could strengthen the player pipeline between Brazil and MLS, particularly as the 2026 World Cup approaches. International groups such as City Group and Red Bull GmbH have invested in Brazilian clubs, representing an important cultural change for Brazilian football and bringing the model closer, in some ways, to what we see in the United States. In Brazil, investors can now own clubs, but the leagues and competitions are still organized and run by the CBF.CBF's US presence positions Brazilian football to capitalize on North America's growing soccer market while potentially creating more structured pathways for talent exchange and commercial partnerships with MLS ahead of the World Cup.

How MLS Plans to Leverage 2026 World Cup for Long-Term GrowthMajor League Soccer commissioner Don Garber says the league is treating the 2026 FIFA World Cup not as a six-week showcase, but as the launchpad for a new era, aiming to convert global attention on North American soccer into lasting growth in fans, relevance and stature. This strategic approach represents a fundamental shift from viewing the World Cup as a temporary boost to positioning it as a catalyst for structural transformation.Strategic Planning Since 2018Garber said MLS began planning for the tournament after hosting rights were awarded in 2018, using the event as fuel to expand, improve infrastructure and strengthen the league's global profile. "We sat back and said, this will be that North Star," Garber told Reuters in an interview.Since then, MLS has added seven teams and nine soccer-specific stadiums, changed roster rules to encourage investment in young players, increased attendance by 35 percent and launched a global media partnership with Apple. These changes reflect a coordinated effort to build capacity and quality ahead of the tournament rather than simply hoping for organic growth afterward.Measuring Success Beyond AttendanceGarber said MLS did not want the World Cup to be a short-lived spectacle that faded once the tournament ended. "We don't want the tournament to be like a Taylor Swift concert where there's enormous energy and then it's a period of time until she comes back on tour," he said. "We want this to be more like the front porch to a new house."But he added the league would measure success more broadly through popularity, relevance, awareness, player recognition and fan engagement. "What we're really going to measure is, through research, are we more popular? Are we more relevant? Do more people know about MLS?" Garber said.Structural Changes for Global AlignmentHe also defended the league's planned calendar shift, saying MLS needed to better align with the global game, including transfer windows and a postseason outside the crowded U.S. sports calendar. This calendar restructuring addresses one of the fundamental barriers to MLS integration with global soccer markets.He said combined viewership across Apple TV, linear broadcast partners and other platforms was up 62 percent year on year. The media strategy reflects an understanding that sustainable growth requires both premium content access and broad distribution.Long-Term Implications for American SoccerHe said MLS expected a post-World Cup boost in attendance, as domestic leagues in host countries have historically benefited from the event. However, the league's approach suggests recognition that temporary spikes without structural foundation typically fade quickly.Garber rejected lingering criticism that MLS remains a destination for players at the end of their careers, pointing to the league's average age of 26 and the competitiveness described by players who have joined. This demographic shift represents a fundamental change in the league's player profile and competitive positioning.The strategy positions MLS to capitalize on what could be the most-watched World Cup in history, with matches across major American markets. Success will depend on whether the structural changes implemented since 2018 can sustain momentum beyond the tournament's conclusion.

Slavko Vincic to Referee Brazil vs Morocco After 2020 Police DetentionFIFA appointed Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic to officiate Brazil's World Cup opener against Morocco on Saturday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The 46-year-old brings elite experience but also controversy from a 2020 police detention in Bosnia.Vincic, part of FIFA and UEFA's elite referee group, has officiated major Champions League and Europa League matches. His appointment for the Group C clash reinforces FIFA's confidence in his abilities for high-profile games involving traditional powerhouses.2020 Bosnia Police OperationIn May 2020, Vincic was detained during a police raid on a rural property in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Authorities investigated suspected prostitution, drug trafficking, and illegal weapons possession at the location where 35 people were present.Police seized 10 pistols, cash amounts, medications, cocaine, and approximately €10,000 during the operation. The incident drew immediate European media attention due to Vincic's prominence in international football.Referee Cleared of All ChargesVincic denied involvement and explained he attended a business lunch invitation without knowing the meeting's context. "I ended up at this ranch by chance. I have my own company, and I was in Bosnia and Herzegovina for a business meeting. I accepted a lunch invitation, which turned out to be my biggest mistake," he told Slovenian media.Investigations found no evidence against the referee. The case was closed without charges, and Vincic continued officiating elite matches for UEFA and FIFA.World Cup Assignment DetailsFIFA also announced the complete officiating crew for Brazil vs Morocco. Assistant referees Tomaz Klancnik and Andraz Kovacic, both Slovenian, will support Vincic. Swiss officials Sandro Schaerer (fourth referee) and Stephane de Almeida (reserve referee) complete the team.The match represents one of the opening round's marquee fixtures, with Brazil seeking another World Cup title while Morocco aims to build on recent international success. Group C also includes Haiti and Scotland.

Mexico made an immediate impression in a drama-filled opening match of the 2026 World Cup, winning 2-0 against South Africa in a game that produced three red cards.The Mexicans rebounded from the massive disappointment of being eliminated after the group stage four years ago in Qatar. That followed seven straight trips to the round of 16 — an achievement that became more of a curse for failing to reach the quarterfinals.But there is hope this year. Mexico has reached the quarterfinals twice in its history, and both times it was the host country — in 1970 and 1986. Aguirre was on that team in 1986.In front of a crowd of more than 80,000 spectators, Mexico took the lead in the ninth minute when Julián Quiñones scored the opening goal of the tournament. 35-year-old striker Raúl Jiménez headed in Mexico's second goal at the Estadio Azteca, which became the first stadium in the world to host games at three World Cups. Mexico's Raul Jimenez celebrates after scoring his side's second goal during the World Cup Group A soccer match against South Africa in Mexico City, Thursday, June 11, 2026. - AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko “I made an effort to explain to them what a World Cup and an opening match on home soil meant, but they are young and had to experience it for themselves," said Mexico coach Javier Aguirre, who played for his team the last time Mexico hosted the tournament in 1986. "I can no longer talk about having played in a home World Cup, because they already know what it’s like.”South Africa had Sphephelo Sithole dismissed for denying a goalscoring opportunity before Themba Zwane was shown a red card for a slap. Mexico's Cesar Montes was also sent off, for a late foul. Referee Wilton Sampaio, of Brazil, shows red card to South Africa's Themba Zwane during the World Cup Group A soccer match between Mexico and South Africa in Mexico City. - AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo It was the first time there were three red cards given in the opening match of a World Cup tournament. And it’s the most in a World Cup game since four were handed out when Portugal played the Netherlands at the 2006 tournament in Germany.“This level is much higher than whatever level we played before. We played a good team, and we played a good game. I saw a desperate Mexico,” South Africa coach Hugo Broos said. “We must improve in the next days. We’ll get over the disappointment.”South Korea comes from behind to beat Czech RepublicIn the second match of the day in Guadalajara, South Korea came from behind to beat the Czech Republic, after Oh Hyeon-gyu brought the score to 2-1 on the 80-minute mark.After a lackluster first half in which both teams were jeered as they left the field, the Czech Republic took the lead in the 59th minute on a header by captain Ladislav Krejci after a long throw-in into the penalty area.South Korea equalised in the 67th, when Hwang scored after faking a shot with a nifty move to clear two Czech players. He then made the cross from the right flank for Oh Hyeon-gyu's decisive strike in the 80th in a match played in front of hundreds of empty seats at Guadalajara Stadium. South Korea goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu celebrates with Oh Hyeon-gyu after the World Cup Group A soccer match between South Korea and Czechia, Thursday, June 11, 2026. - AP Photo/Moises Castillo Mexico now has three points in Group A and will next play South Korea next Thursday in Guadalajara. South Africa will play the Czech Republic on the same day in Atlanta.“It would be important (to win the group), but right now the only thing we’re thinking about is the match against Korea — being better than them and trying to win,” Aguirre said. “We’re going to take it step by step and see what the future holds.”

⚽ Mexico top of Group A! How it stands after World Cup day oneAfter an exciting opening matchday of the 2026 World Cup, Mexico has taken the lead in the group.Thanks to their emphatic opening win over South Africa, Javier Aguirre’s side sits top with 3 points and a goal difference of +2. Korea also picked up 3 points, moving into second place in the standings with a goal difference of +1.The head-to-head clash between Mexico and South Korea (next matchday) will put a mathematical spot in the next round and the definitive top spot in the group on the line. Meanwhile, Czechia and South Africa will face off in an early final where the loser can start packing their bags to head back home.This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

Former Wales coach Wayne Pivac is preparing to come out of "semi-retirement" and begin a new chapter when he travels to Italy next week to take charge of Benetton.Pivac, 63, was announced as the new boss of the United Rugby Championship (URC) side in March and will arrive in northern Italy from New Zealand to start pre-season preparations.It could have been very different for Pivac had his time as Wales coach worked out, but he paid the price for losing at home to Georgia in November 2022.A stint in Japan followed before he returned home to New Zealand where he admits his coaching career might have been over.But the Benetton opportunity arose and the well-travelled Kiwi has found himself back in the northern hemisphere.In the latest Scrum V podcast, Pivac has explained his decision to prolong his career, recounted how his Wales career finished and outlined why Welsh rugby could have looked a lot different if the Ospreys and Scarlets had merged in 2019.Welsh rugby's ins, outs and re-signings for 2026-27United Rugby Championship unveil 2026-27 fixturesPivac and Patchell prepare for life in ItalyWayne Pivac became the fourth New Zealander to coach Wales after Graham Henry, Steve Hansen and Warren Gatland [Huw Evans Picture Agency]Pivac has signed a contract as first-team head coach with the Italian club until June 2028, with the option of two further seasons."After Japan, we had come back to New Zealand with a view of just sort of semi-retiring," said Pivac."I've been helping the local club with coaching coaches and doing recruiting out of the schools, identifying the young talents, which I've enjoyed doing. "I said to my agent it'd have to be something special and a few clubs popped up which weren't of interest."Then the phone call came through that Benetton were interested in having a conversation. "We did that quickly, one Zoom led to another, and before you know it, we decided to accept an offer, so that's where we're heading."Pivac has brought in former Scarlets and Wales fly-half Rhys Patchell as his attack coach."I know Rhys pretty well and he has got a fantastic work ethic," said Pivac."We signed him from Cardiff and he was a big part of us winning the championship with the Scarlets in 2017 and that was a special time in Welsh regional rugby."He understood the way we wanted to play and was able to execute what we wanted on the field and in training."Pivac believes the duo will improve each other despite a 30-year age gap."He's going to make a very good coach," said Pivac. "I know the Benetton people are excited about the one and only signing I've done to date, which is Rhys. "I am looking forward to helping him kickstart his coaching career."For a young coach to be in with an older experienced coach, it's a win-win. "He'll keep me young and hopefully I'll help him in the trying moments to relax and enjoy it for what it is."Wistful Pivac to watch World Cup from afarPivac disappointed not to realise World Cup dreamWhat might have been for Wayne Pivac?Georgia players celebrate after a first win against Wales in November 2022 [Huw Evans Picture Agency]After leading Scarlets to Pro12 success in 2017, Pivac replaced Warren Gatland after the 2019 World Cup.Pivac won the 2021 Six Nations during a three-year spell as Wales boss and became the first Welsh men's coach to achieve a victory against the Springboks in South Africa in 2022 with victory in Bloemfontein.Pivac was replaced by Gatland in 2022 having won 13 of 34 games with the 13-12 home defeat against Georgia in November 2022 proving the defining moment.Georgia have since been embroiled in a doping scandal which saw former captain Merab Sharikadze banned for 11 years for his part in a secret scheme which helped national team players cheat anti-doping tests.Sharikadze, who led Georgia to that famous win over Wales in Cardiff, admitted providing 'clean' urine to three team-mates.Hooker Giorgi Chkoidze was banned for six years, with Lasha Khmaladze, Otar Lashkhi and Miriani Modebadze receiving three-year suspensions, and Lasha Lomidze being banned for nine months.World Rugby, who flagged anomalies in samples from the team in the run-up to the 2023 World Cup, says Georgia were the subject of "the most extensive anti-doping investigation ever undertaken in rugby", but that performance-enhancing drugs were not the motivation for the deception.Pivac says defeat against Georgia was the final straw in his Wales coaching career, although there was to be one more defeat in his tenure following a loss against Australia."It's a long time ago and you do move on," said Pivac."At the time it was disappointing to walk away from the role and then probably equally disappointing to hear that news [of Georgia's doping bans] in recent times."I've no regrets. I enjoyed nine years in Wales and loved every minute of it. "I'm looking forward to going back again with Benetton [in October] when we play Scarlets because I've got so many friends there with great memories."Summer recess for Welsh trio as testing season ends

Edward Pearson, from Guildford, will race in the 24 Hours of Le Mans event [Nielsen Racing]A teenager has said he feels "ready" to make his debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a race he has wanted to enter since the age of five.Edward Pearson, 19, from Guildford in Surrey, will be driving in the famous endurance race for the first time in a team alongside former Formula 1 driver Jack Doohan.Pearson, who passed his road driving test in November and had not driven in an endurance race a year ago, said he was excited to be part of the event.He told BBC Radio Surrey: "Since I was five I've wanted to do this race. I feel ready."The 24 Hours of Le Mans is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious events in motorsport.It involves three classes of cars going at much different speeds racing at the same time for 24 hours straight.The winner is the car that covers the longest distance.Pearson racing in the Nielsen car [Nielsen Racing]Each car has three drivers, with Pearson and his teammates each driving in 40 minute stints.Pearson will drive in the LMP2 class race for the Nielsen Racing car, alongside former Alpine F1 driver Doohan and David Heinemeier Hansson.Taking part in the race means using "all of your brain power" on driving, he said. His needs to overtake much slower cars in the lower class race, while also being overtaken by the much faster hypercars in the upper class race.He said the sport was gaining popularity, adding: "It's great to be in a sport that is growing."The race is due to begin on Saturday, 13 June and finish on Sunday, 14 June.Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram and listen to BBC Radio Surrey on Sounds. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250. More on this story What connects Verstappen, Rossi and Le Mans 24 Hours?Iconic Le Mans winning car 'was a Slough product' Related internet links 24 Hours of Le Mans

The Williams FW25 car was driven by Ralf Schumacher and Juan Pablo Montoya at the 2003 French Grand Prix where they would finish first and second. [Getty Images]A Williams Formula One car driven throughout the 2003 season has been restored and is set to return to the track after more than two decades in storage.Drivers Ralf Schumacher and Juan Pablo Montoya both used the vehicle as a test car throughout the season - which ended with Williams finishing second in that year's Constructors' Championship.Now, 23-years-on, the FW25 has been restored by the Grove-based F1 team's heritage division and the engineers who originally worked on it during that 2003 season.On Friday, the renovated racing car - powered by a 3.0-litre V10 engine - will return to the track competitively at Germany's legendary motorsport Mecca, the Nurburgring.Jonathan Kennard, the F1 team's heritage director, led the project and told the BBC team behind it had "absolutely loved" being involved in the car again."It's probably one of our favourite cars that we ever made in our history, and there's a lot of love and passion for the FW25 amongst all the team."Work to restore the car was carried out by engineers who originally worked on it 23 years ago [Williams F1]Kennard said having the knowledge of the mechanics who had originally worked on the car in 2003 during the year-long restoration project had been "absolutely wonderful"."When this [car] was made, I think Williams F1 team probably had around 450 people all with this the sole aim of designing the fastest racing car to go and win the World Championship.""We've got 31 people in Heritage, but I think we're pretty well set up to deliver a car that is as good if not better than it was back in 2003."He explained the vehicle had been in storage since "back in the day" when it had last been used, and "hadn't turned a wheel since 2003".Jonathan Kennard said he was "proud to be a part" of the restoration project [Williams F1]Restoring the car was "not cheap" Kennard said, before adding that the its original V10 engine was "officially back"."We're running the engine exactly as it would have been run in 2003 - so 19,000 rpm, 3.0 litre V10.""The one thing that many Formula One fans if they've been watching for a while miss is that ear-splitting noise that the old Formula One cars have."Kennard said the restored FW25 had a noise that was "absolutely terrific"."When we fired it up for the first time, I don't think there was anybody in the room that wasn't a little bit emotional about it. It was a really special thing to see.""We're quite proud to be a part of that."The FW25 was the last Williams car to achieve a 1-2 finish in F1, at the 2003 French Grand Prix [Getty Images]The car will be competing across four rounds of the 2026 BOSS GP series - with Magny-Cours, Red Bull Ring and Mugello all hosting races after the Nurburgring.Talking about the restored car's speed, Kennard said: "If you actually compare the Formula 1 cars of today versus the 2003 FW25 in terms of lap time, they're almost the same."Taking the wheel for the races will be the car's owner Phil Stratford, who said owning and racing the car was a "lifelong ambition"."To be able to do it with the full support of Williams Heritage, the engineers and technicians who know this car better than anyone, and to bring it back to competition... is extraordinary.""I cannot wait." More on this story 'We put Lewis Hamilton's racing car back together''Drive to Survive got me into F1 - now I work at Williams' Related internet links Williams F1

Sandro Tonali: Another City hijack on the cards Manchester United have already admitted defeat in their pursuit of dream midfield target, Elliot Anderson.The Nottingham Forest star was identified as the ideal successor to Casemiro, but INEOS are in no position to pay as much as Manchester City.Even though Forest have rejected both of City bids, the feeling is that the Englishman prefers a switch to the Etihad and the Red Devils do not want to get into a bidding war.This is why they moved on to Sandro Tonali. However, Newcastle’s valuation, the Italian’s wage demands, and his preference to return to his homeland have proved to be major obstacles.City eyeing Sandro TonaliInterestingly, Fabrizio Romano has now revealed that City, should they miss out on Anderson, could move for the Magpies ace.“I want to discuss the Man City situation, because on one side there is still the situation of Elliot Anderson,” Romano said on his YouTube channel.“Manchester City yesterday offered £121m add-ons included, for Elliot Anderson – £106m plus £15m as add-ons. The bid has been rejected by Nottingham Forest.“Now let’s see what Manchester City decide to do because it was already a big proposal. Don’t forget what I told you last week, another player really appreciated, really, really appreciated by Manchester City is also Sandro Tonali.”United cool their interest in Sandro TonaliThe journalist had earlier claimed that owing to the former AC Milan star’s demands, the 20-time English league champions have cooled their interest.“In the case of Tonali, the appreciation remains, but at this stage the deal is not considered advanced or particularly concrete. The overall cost of the operation, including both salary and transfer fee, is currently viewed as too high.“As things stand today, Man Utd are relatively cold on the possibility of signing Tonali.”INEOS could rue both decisionsINEOS are set to let go of two midfield targets. Whether this decision comes back to haunt them, only time will tell.Currently, United seem to be fully focussed on landing Mateus Fernandes from West Ham to add to their capture of Brazilian midfield ace Ederson.Feature image Carl Recine via Getty Imagesonline 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

Jack Aitken is taking part in his first 24 Hours of Le Mans for Cadillac Hertz Team Jota [Jack Valpy/BBC]A Kent motorsport team is preparing for what it hopes will be a landmark moment as it takes on one of the world's toughest endurance races.Cadillac Hertz Team Jota, based in Tunbridge Wells, will line up at the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans this weekend, aiming to secure its first overall victory in the French classic race since the team's formation in 2000.Le Mans is widely regarded as one of motorsport's greatest challenges, with drivers racing continuously for 24 hours round the 8.5-mile (7.8km) Circuit de la Sarthe track.Driver Jack Aitken told BBC South East: "Le Mans is the Everest of motor racing, and because it's such a prestigious race, you have to take on the great and the good if you want to win it."View this post on InstagramFor Team Jota, the event represents the culmination of more than two decades of growth from a private British team into one of the leading names in world endurance racing.Team Jota's founder, Sam Hignett, said: "It all started with myself as a not very good racing driver."I took a back seat and managed the team, and we've grown from me and a mechanic to about 75 staff members for the Silverstone testing."For Team Jota, the event represents the culmination of more than two decades of growth [Jack Valpy/BBC]The partnership with Cadillac has given the team a chance to take on the best in the business, with the likes of Ferrari, Porsche and Alpine in the top class of the race.Programme manager for Cadillac Racing, Keely Bosn, said she was hopeful the team would take the top step on the podium this year.She said: "Le Mans is gruelling. It's the pinnacle of racing and it all comes together for one long 24-hour race, and we're there to win it."The team said that winning Le Mans remained the ultimate goal.Last year, the team attracted global attention when former Formula 1 world champion Jenson Button joined its driver lineup.The 93rd running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans gets under way on Saturday, with the chequered flag falling 24 hours later.Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, X, and on Instagram and listen to BBC Radio Kent on Sounds. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250. More on this story What connects Verstappen, Rossi and Le Mans 24 Hours?Iconic Le Mans winning car 'was a Slough product' Related internet links Team Jota

4 Oct 1997: Defensive back Allen Rossum of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish looks on during a game against the Stanford Cardinal at Stanford Stadium in Palo Alto, California. Stanford won the game, 33-15. Mandatory Credit: Otto Greule Jr. /Allsport | Getty Images Notre Dame has the best cornerback in the country this season with Leonard Moore. This Friday’s photo tribute is to the cornerback position at Notre Dame, and five former starters at the position. Have a great Friday!

The Super Bowl champions now have their bling.Big-time bling.The Seahawks players, coaches and football staffers received their Super Bowl 60 championship rings Thursday night in a fancy ceremony at a restaurant in suburban Seattle.Team chair Jody Allen, heir and chair of her late brother’s Paul G. Allen’s Estate that owns the franchise, approved and paid far above the $7,000 or so the NFL allots each year to its champion for rings.Well above that $7,000. The Seahawks announced are offering through ring designer Jason of Beverly Hills on the jeweler’s website a replica of the Super Bowl ring. Only 76 are available, to honor the Seahawks’ first NFL season of 1976.Each replica ring’s cost: $15,995.So, yes, the Seahawks’ real rings are WAY above $7,000 each.Tight end AJ Barner approves.The Barn Show called it. pic.twitter.com/TW74du4Aea— Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) June 12, 2026The team says the rings is “inspired by the architecture of Lumen Field, (as) the stadium’s famous arches take center stage adorned with diamonds.“The middle of the ring features Seahawks blue sapphires, the hawk head logo, and two Lombardi Trophies in the background, representing the franchise’s two championships. Fifty brilliant round white diamonds are set around the center logo to honor the team’s 50th season.”“The Super Bowl LX championship ring will forever represent our historic 50th season and the dedication and determination of our entire franchise,” Seahawks president Chuck Arnold said in a statement the team released after the ring event late Thursday night. “We are deeply grateful to Jason of Beverly Hills for bringing our vision to life. The stories told in the ring’s design perfectly capture the significance of an unforgettable season and the unwavering support of our fans.”One side of the ring features each player’s last name, his jersey number and the team’s mantra, “M.O.B.” It stands for the Seahawks’ NSFW “Mission Over Bull(stuff).”The Seahawks released an example of Pro Bowl cornerback Devon Witherspoon’s ring.The other side of the ring includes the team’s vision in the words of coach Mike Macdonald, “12 AS ONE,” plus the Seattle skyline, year and Super Bowl 60 logo in the league-custom Roman numeral, XL.The bottom of the ring features 12 feathers, a tribute to Seahawks’ fan base nicknamed “the 12s,” for 12th Man.The inside of the ring contains an authentic piece of a football used during the 2025 championship season, with the number 50 in the middle. That is to signify the team’s 50th season in which they won the Super Bowl again.The inside of the ring reads “17 WINS.” That’s how many the team had in its Super Bowl-winning regular season and postseason combined.The top of the ring can be fully removed from the base, allowing it to convert to a pendant that can be worn on a chain.The team describes that a “12 Flag” on the side of the ring “acts as a special button. When pressed, the Lumen Field arches on the top of the ring pop outwards, revealing the words ‘WORLD CHAMPIONS.’”Of that last feature, the team says: “The 12 Flag button design is one of the most technically-advanced engineering features ever incorporated into a Super Bowl championship ring, requiring a complex internal mechanism utilizing multiple levers and spring systems. The ring engineering process required months of development to ensure the mechanism operated seamlessly while maintaining integrity, durability, and luxury craftsmanship. From initial concept to final completion, each ring underwent an extensive three-month production process involving concept development, CAD engineering, stone sourcing, casting, hand setting, polishing, and multiple rounds of quality control.”A closer look at the Super Bowl LX ring Learn more » https://t.co/mS9R5VrQiQpic.twitter.com/zxSXKEgdMT— Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) June 12, 2026

🤯 Card chaos in World Cup opener: red-card flood rewrites historyThe World Cup opener between Mexico and South Africa may not have produced the highest-quality football, but it was definitely very entertaining. In the end, the hosts won 2-0.What will be remembered even more than the result, however, is the wave of sendings-off handed out by referee Wilton Pereira Sampaio in the second half. The Brazilian sent off two South Africans, Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane, as well as Mexico’s Cesar Montes.Unsurprisingly, three straight red cards in an opening match means a new World Cup record. What’s more, across the last two tournaments in 2018 and 2022, there were only four sendings-off in total. That mark is now under threat after just one match!However, the all-time record for red cards in a World Cup match was not broken at the Azteca Stadium. That still belongs to the "Battle of Nuremberg." In 2006, an incredible four players were sent off in the round-of-16 match between Portugal and the Netherlands!This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.

☕️🥐 FC Breakfast: Cheki the paparazzo 🤣, fans go wild 😭Cherki exposes Les Bleus 🤣While Les Bleus arrived in the United States nearly 48 hours ago, they were invited to play paparazzi on the plane taking them to Uncle Sam’s country.The prize unquestionably goes to Rayan Cherki and his snapshots, even if Marcus Thuram and Kylian Mbappé probably won’t agree with us.Wild supporters 😭This South Korean supporter will no doubt remember this day for the rest of his life. Having traveled to Mexico to watch his national team’s matches, he was carried in triumph by an army of Mexican fans before everyone started singing together.The brotherly World Cup spirit we love!Everyone’s a Shakira fan ⭐️At the Azteca Stadium ahead of the World Cup opening ceremony, this reporter simply interrupted his live broadcast to go ask Shakira, who was passing by, for a selfie. Would you have done the same?Yesterday’s must-sees 🍿- World Cup: Three red cards in the opening match, an unprecedented scenario!- Who is Julián Quiñones, the first goalscorer of the World Cup?- Official: Real Madrid confirm José Mourinho’s return!TV schedule 📺21:00: Canada vs Bosnia (M6/beIN Sports 1)03:00: United States vs Paraguay (beIN Sports 1)This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.

World Cup: Otto Rehhagel's record broken twice in opening daySouth Africa's Belgian coach Hugo Broos and Czechia’s Miroslav Koubek broke Otto Rehhagel's record of oldest World Cup coach in space of a few hours. The latter is now the record holder until Dick Advocaat's Curaçao face Germany on Sunday.The German Rehhagel previously held the record when he coached Greece at the age of 71 in the 2010 World Cup. Broos, 74, overtook that as he was in the dugout in the opening fixture of the 2026 World Cup against co-hosts Mexico. Hours later, Koubek broke the record once again by 221 days in the duel with South Korea.Both coaches lost their opening fixtures before facing each other on the second matchday next week. Before then, the record is expected to be broken for the third time as Dick Advocaat set to coach Curaçao at the age of 78 against Germany. After guiding them to their first-ever World Cup, the Dutch stepped down from the position before reversing his decision last month. Argentine manager Juan José Tramutola still holds the record for the youngest coach as he led them to reach the inaugural final in 1930 at the age of 27.