ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Texas Rangers rookie left-hander Robby Ahlstrom is OK not celebrating his first big league victory a second time. That celebratory beer shower Ahlstrom got in the clubhouse after a road win in Kansas City just came four days before he was officially awarded that win. “I mean, we celebrated like I did (get the win). I mean everybody thought it was going to be that way," Ahlstrom said before the Rangers played Tuesday, two days before his 27th birthday and a day after an appealed scoring change rightfully made him a winner. “A little interesting finding out after the fact,” he said. "I was more thinking of like, I don’t want to go through that beer shower again.”Ahlstrom came on with two outs in the fifth inning and a runner on in the finale of a four-game series against the Royals last Thursday. He retired all four batters he faced while Texas extended its lead to 4-2. Cole Winn then threw a scoreless inning and closer Jacob Latz finished it with two perfect innings. Since Texas starter Kumar Rocker had exited one out shy of qualifying for the win, it was assumed by everyone — except the official scorer that day — that Ahlstrom was the winner in his fourth big league appearance, and Latz had another save. It wasn't until Ahlstrom checked his phone afterward that he saw the official box score listing Latz as the winner instead. “No one wants to get beer poured on them if they don’t even get the win,” Latz said. “So we’re happy that it was actually meaningful.”The Rangers appealed the decision by the scorer. That process included input from Latz, who noted that he had entered the game in a save situation and said Ahlstrom deserved the win. MLB made the change Monday, with manager Skip Schumaker informing Ahlstrom just before pregame stretch and congratulating him again for his first win. His fellow relievers cheered the news. “He got the beer shower already, so I’m glad he didn’t have to do that again,” said Schumaker, adding he was excited for Ahlstrom, who made his big league debut June 3. “You put MLB next to it, it’s kind of cool getting your debut, your first strikeout. But the ultimate goal is to come up here and help the team win ballgames,” Ahlstrom said. “So if you have a 'W' next to your name, you did something right. So I think that’d be the coolest part.”___AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

Iraq 1-4 Norway: Haaland bags brace as Iraq impress in BostonIraq put up a good fight in Boston but ultimately suffered a 1-4 loss against Norway in their Group I opener at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Erling Haaland scored twice in the first half, either side of Aymen Hussein’s effort that gave the Lions of Mesopotamia a glimmer of hope.But while Iraq could have dragged themselves level before the break when a great chance fell for Akram Hashim on the edge of the box, it was a thunderous header from substitute Leo Ostigard and a late own goal by Aymen Hussein that proved to be decisive as Norway doubled their advantage to move above France on goal difference.As it happenedAlmost thirty years on since their last appearance at a FIFA World Cup, Norway found themselves under the cosh early on as Aymen Hussein – who was held by immigration for seven hours after arriving in the United States – managed to steer a header towards goal, though it never looked like troubling Orjan Nyland between the sticks.But the Landslaget, with Erling Haaland leading the line, were always going to cause problems for the Iraqi defence and the Manchester City man danced past Zaid Tahseen inside the opening ten minutes in an early search for the opener, only to see his cross gathered with ease by Jalal Hassan.In a group that also contains Senegal and France, Iraq have been widely tipped to finish bottom but they came close to stunning their Scandinavian opponents in Boston when Ipswich Town’s Ali Al-Hamadi found space to get a shot off inside the box, although it flew well over the target.It was almost inevitable that Haaland would have some kind of meaningful effect on his first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance, and it arrived just before the half-hour mark as David Moller Wolfe darted down the left flank to whip an inch-perfect ball in for the Manchester City forward, who turned home at the far post.Norway’s lead lasted all of ten minutes though. Having sent his early chance skywards, Aymen Hussein ensured his second attempt did not suffer the same fate, nodding a low header from Amir Al Ammari’s cross beyond Nyland to put Iraq level in their first FIFA World Cup appearance in 40 years.But the Lions of Mesopotamia would have their hearts broken just moments later, and – of course – it was Haaland that pounced upon a poor attempt at clearance from captain Hassan to restore Norway’s lead at a crucial moment just before the break.Despite having restored their lead, though, the half-time whistle simply couldn’t come quick enough for Ståle Solbakken’s men, who came worryingly close to conceding an equaliser for the second time in the dying seconds of the half as Al-Hamadi rolled just wide of the target before Akram Hashim’s emphatic volley from the edge of the box brushed the roof of the net as it flew marginally over the crossbar.Iraq did well to keep applying that pressure after play resumed and Aymen Hussein perhaps should have dragged his side level in the 53rd minute when he met Ibrahim Bayesh’s cross from the right, though he turned his header just wide of the target.A cross from the opposite flank 10 minutes later looked to present a good chance for Bayesh, though it was overhit and sailed through to the back post where right-back Hussein Ali was waiting. His attempt settled on the roof of the net, though.Failing to convert their chances proved costly for an Iraqi side that had been so impressive throughout the first hour at the Boston Stadium, as substitute Leo Ostigard turned home a bullet header from a corner just three minutes after being introduced a substitute to double Norway’s advantage.And in what could ultimately be a decisive moment if this group is to be decided by goal difference, Kristian Thorstvedt bundled over the line from close range in the dying seconds to wrap up a well-deserved Norwegian win – though the goal was officially credited as an own goal by Iraq’s Aymen Hussein.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JANUARY 18: Caleb Williams #18 of the Chicago Bears throws a pass against the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Divisional Playoffs at Soldier Field on January 18, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Bears have had a laundry list of legendary linebackers over the course of their franchise’s history. Chief among them is Mike Singletary, the 10-time Pro Bowler who’s not only one of the best linebackers in Chicago’s history, but in the NFL’s history.Singletary recently appeared on Up & Adams with Kay Adams, who asked Samurai Mike the question: if you could conduct a redraft of the entire NFL, which player would you select first overall? Singletary’s choice was Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, though he was quick to add that Bears quarterback Caleb Williams was in that conversation.Patrick Mahomes is unquestionably the best player in the NFL 👀HOF'er Mike Singletary:@MSing50official | @PatrickMahomes | @CALEBcsw | @heykayadamspic.twitter.com/30VA5Bppx2— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) June 16, 2026For what it’s worth, you can actually conduct a full redraft of the entire NFL yourself for free using Pro Football Network’s NFL Ultimate Redraft Simulator, in which Williams is the No. 8-ranked player overall in a hypothetical NFL redraft.Singletary decidedly chose Mahomes as his No. 1 pick, citing his leadership abilities and reliability as a steady force through the Chiefs’ ups and downs.“The kid in Chicago is not far behind,” Singletary added after stating his case. Presumably, this is speaking towards Williams’ leadership style and how the team rallies around him, seeing as though that was Singletary’s main case towards selecting Mahomes.Williams is coming off a step up in production in 2025 compared to his rookie season with the Bears. With head coach Ben Johnson at the helm, the 2024 No. 1 overall pick saw improves in passing yards, passing touchdowns, passer rating, net yards per passing attempt, game-winning drives, fourth-quarter comebacks, and sack avoidance percentage.Though he still has some improving to do — his completion percentage being chief among them — it’s clear the Bears have a talented young quarterback on their hands. It appears that Samurai Mike has identified himself as a believer.

Drake Baldwin seems fine.The Atlanta Braves catcher returned to the lineup Tuesday after nearly a month on the 10-day injured list with an oblique strain and immediately resumed his breakout season with a leadoff homer against the San Francisco Giants. It wasn’t just any homer, though. Facing Giants starter Adrian Houser, Baldwin took a 94.6 mph sinker left in the middle of the zone and deposited at the base of the batter’s eye in center field.The homer was measured by Statcast at 112.8 mph off the bat with a projected distance of 473 feet. That makes it the longest homer hit in MLB this season.The previous longest homer belonged to the Colorado Rockies’ Seth Halvorsen at 471 feet, hit during the power boom seen at the Athletics’ Las Vegas homestand last week. That homer was part of a franchise-record 23 runs scored by the Rockies on Sunday.Before going down with the oblique strain, Baldwin, the 2025 NL Rookie of the Year, was performing like one of the best players in baseball. He entered Tuesday slashing .303/.389/.543 with 13 homers in only 48 games.Despite his time missed, he led NL catchers in All-Star votes during the first release of numbers on Monday with a healthy lead over the second-place Will Smith of the Los Angeles Dodgers. There seems to be little reason to expect his campaign to lose any steam now that he’s back.

ATLANTA, GA - JUNE 16: Ozzie Albies (1) of the Atlanta Braves chases after a fly ball during the Tuesday evening MLB game between the Atlanta Braves and the San Francisco Giants on June 16, 2026 at Truist Park in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images I’m writing this right now as I watch the venerable and capable grounds crew for the Atlanta Braes try to get the field back in playing condition after starting the game on time in the midst of a steady downpour. With that being said, there’s a pretty serious question to ask when it comes to whether or not this game should’ve been pushed back or not. Sure, we got to see Drake Baldwin crush one into Chattahoochee Falls out there in dead center field but at the same time, the Braves ended up losing Michael Harris II due to injury for at least the rest of the game and Grant Holmes had an absolute devil of a time trying to pitch two innings in those conditions. He already has more than his fair share of issues getting through the second time through the order, so having him pitch in these conditions for his first trip through the order was certainly a choice. Now, we’re in the midst of a rain delay that isn’t officially a rain delay as the grounds crew attempts to dry out the infield. The obvious question now is whether or not they should’ve simply put the tarp on and started this game under a rain delay. They’ve done it before — I was at the ballpark as a fan for that series finale against the Nationals where they started the game half an hour late despite the fact that there was no rain coming down. So why didn’t that happen today?My only guess is that they figured that the weather would’ve dried up by 8:00 p.m. ET so they figured it wouldn’t have hurt to get through the light rain. Well, you can’t predict the weather just like you can’t predict baseball, so the rain actually started coming down harder than it had at any point all day right as the game began.So the decision to start the game in the midst of a downpour was a confusing one for sure considering what they’ve done in the past. I can understand why the Braves figured they could pull it off but in this case, a preemptive rain delay may have been the best idea both in hindsight and in practice. Anyways, sit tight while we wait for this game to get back underway.

LAS VEGAS, NV - JUNE 10: Jack Perkins #50 of the Athletics pitches during the game between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Athletics at Las Vegas Ballpark on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Daniel Shirey/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images Last night, the Athletics returned to Sutter Health Park with a bang, bashing three home runs in an 11-2 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates. A’s first baseman Nick Kurtz hit two more long balls as he continued his torrid month at the plate. Meanwhile, J.T. Ginn delivered a dominant outing on the mound.Your daily reminder to vote 🗳️#VoteAthletics | https://t.co/SBezYOtGtGpic.twitter.com/8EBds4qQ27— Athletics (@Athletics) June 16, 2026If the A’s secure their second straight win, they will move above .500 and clinch a third straight series victory over a National League opponent.Right-hander Jack Perkins will make his third start since joining the A’s rotation, but his first in West Sacramento. Through 19 appearances, Perkins is 2-3 with a 6.25 ERA, a 1.36 WHIP and 43 strikeouts over 36 innings pitched. The 26-year-0ld has labored through four innings in each of his first two starts. In his last outing against the Milwaukee Brewers, he received a no-decision after allowing three runs on five hits and three walks. Tonight, in his first career start against the Pirates, the A’s will be looking for more efficiency from Perkins, who is now stretched out and will hopefully work at least five innings if all goes well. The right-hander has the arsenal and ability to succeed as a starter, yet has bounced between the rotation and the bullpen through his first 31 MLB games. A quality outing would go a long way toward Perkins proving he belongs in the rotation. A third consecutive shaky outing, however, could move him back to the bullpen, where he has recorded three saves this season.Now onto the starting lineup. Here’s how manager Mark Kotsay decided to order things up today:let's run it back 🔄 pic.twitter.com/x4cWMLz3fK— Athletics (@Athletics) June 16, 2026The Athletics are sticking with the same starting nine for the middle game of this interleague series. Shortstop Jacob Wilson remains in the cleanup spot, even if it may not be the ideal fit for his skillset. If he collects a hit, third baseman Zack Gelof will extend his MLB-best hitting streak to 20 games. Second baseman Jeff McNeil broke out yesterday with three hits and four RBIs. The A’s will be counting on him to stay productive as they look to build on that 11-run outburst. Will right fielder Lawrence Butler finally get his batting average over .200 this evening? Should Kotsay have switched things up or is it the right call to roll with the same group that had success last night?Those bats will be facing Pirates’ right-hander Mitch Keller, who enters his 15th start with a 5-4 record, a 5.14 ERA, a 1.31 WHIP and 58 strikeouts over 77 innings. The 30-year-old has struggled over his last few starts, allowing 31 runs in his last 36 innings of work, good for a 7.75 ERA. He received the loss in his last outing against the Los Angeles Dodgers after surrendering five runs on seven hits across four innings. Keller enters tonight 0–3 with a 7.04 ERA and 12 strikeouts in three previous career appearances against the A’s. Despite his recent struggles, Keller remains a talented pitcher, and the A’s offense will need to take advantage of any mistakes he makes. Hitters like Kurtz, Butler and left fielder Tyler Soderstrom cannot afford to be passive, especially with the Pirates’ offense likely to generate runs against Perkins and the Athletics’ bullpen.The Pirates’ lineup looks like this:74/162.📺: @SNPittsburgh📻: @937TheFanpic.twitter.com/uGVrnvMweC— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) June 16, 2026Like the A’s, the Pirates are rolling with nearly the same lineup that took the field yesterday. The lone change is Jared Triolo at shortstop, which prompts a couple of his teammates to move to different positions. The A’s did a good job of quieting Pittsburgh’s bats in the series opener game of the series, but the Pirates will be looking to flip the script and score more runs in an effort to force a rubber game tomorrow. Time to wrap the series up and earn another win in Sactown. Let’s go A’s!Follow the Game:Watch:Athletics – NBCSCAListen:Athletics – Talk 650 KSTE, A’s Cast

Some thought Conor McGregor may never compete again after his last fight. Five years later, the Irishman is ready to return against Max Holloway at UFC 329 on July 11.Throughout the layoff, McGregor, 37, recovered from a gruesome broken leg suffered in his last fight — a first-round TKO loss to Dustin Poirier in July 2021 — and experienced several legal troubles, including a high-profile Irish civil trial where he was found liable for the 2018 sexual assault of Nikita Hand. Speaking in-studio Tuesday on "The Ariel Helwani Show," McGregor said he has no regrets about the way his journey has unfolded."God knows my heart and the things that I've gone through. I'm a young man, I came into all this, I forgive myself for what I — I forgive myself for disgracing the position that God put me in, which I've done many times, and I won't do it again," McGregor told Uncrowned. "And that's where I'm at today. I don't have regrets. I'm happy and thankful for the lessons that I learned on the way."McGregor doesn't needto fight again. A former two-division UFC champion, the Irishman remains the biggest mainstream star MMA has ever produced, and also holds a career earnings that far outpaces any other fighter in the sport’s history. Yet all that success also gave way to a life of excess and recklessness, McGregor acknowledged.He described his current situation akin to “being on a tightrope,” one in which McGregor struggles on a day-to-day basis to fight off the demons he once embraced."Money isn't the end-all, be-all. It's not life, get me?” McGregor said."I've done the Forbes [highest-paid athletes] list, I won the Forbes list. You won't see me on it again. I won't register to go on it again. Look what it brought to me. Still, even now, I can feel it somewhere. 'Oh, he's back.' This is coming in, and I just — there's forces. They're trying to get their claws on you in this life. And I don't want to give it energy. I don't want to give it life. I'm happy where I'm at. I'm not mad on discussing finances and things [anymore]. Keep myself modest. That's how I live my life. Conor McGregor's name has been a familiar one in the courts since his last UFC fight.Brian Lawless - PA Images via Getty Images"A lot of self-internal work [has been done]. I've got a lot of people behind the scenes to help me. A lot of discussions. And again, it's ongoing,” McGregor continued. “The rent is due every day. It's like training — you have to train for a fight. You have to train your discipline, you have to train your skill set. It's the same thing. Only it's akin to being on a tightrope, and the tightrope is going across this office, across to the next office, with a very high fall. The stakes are very high. So you better stay balanced, because … sometimes when you're down in a place, you don't feel anything else. You have no emotion. You're just reckless, you're going. You don't pay no attention to nothing. “And then eventually, most people, they must put that work in on themselves and get themselves back into a steady state of living. That is the time where the rope is even thinner, you get me? The balance — you need to be even more balanced, because the fall is even higher then. If you fall when you're in this position, you don't give a f*** — you might even do it just to do it. So I'm in the state now where I'm keeping my balance and making my way to life, and God is helping me with that. That's it."McGregor said he’s leaned heavily on his religion throughout his latest comeback.He also acknowledged that he reached "rock bottom" at a point over the past five years."I am a religious man," McGregor said. "I was raised Catholic by my mother and my family. We're a religious family. It takes a deeper meaning when you hit rock bottom and there's nothing else there but God. And then, just the divine coincidence is everything — I keep seeing it. I keep being shown it, and I'm going all in on it."There were a few dark moments. But I relished the opportunity to show my strength. I was put in a position to showcase my strength. So I stood up and showed it, and that's what I’ve done. A few dark moments, I'm through them, I'm in the light, I'm walking the tightrope and I'm keeping my balance. And please, God, I [pray I] keep it."People don't understand the darkness of being in that situation with that injury. It ain't easy. So I'm very happy that I'm f***ing through it."When McGregor faces Holloway, he'll look to return to the win column for the first time since his 40-second TKO of Donald Cerrone in 2020, and snap a two-fight losing skid. McGregor defeated Holloway in their first fight via unanimous decision when they fought at UFC Boston in August 2013.The former two-division champion told Uncrowned on Tuesday that he already has his next fight after Holloway tentatively booked for April 2027, after which McGregor’s UFC deal will be over and he could potentially enter into the free agency market.

Hall of Fame quarterback and Fox analyst Terry Bradshaw is 77. He has spent 31 years with Fox.He has no plan to call it quits.“Retirement is not something that — I mean, I may not be with Fox,” Bradshaw said in a recent appearance on Sports Business Radio, via Sam Neumann of Awful Announcing. “That would be their call, not mine. But I would still be speaking, but if not doing that, I’ll still work the bourbon trail."Although, as Neumann notes, Bradshaw has mused about retirement in the past, his current mindset is to get busy living.“Billy Graham said that the day that you retire is the day you start dying,” Bradshaw said. “I do believe a lot of people, when they stop using their brain and keep their thought processes moving and advancing, I do think, for whatever reason, I believe you age, and people end up dying. I mean, people die within a year after retirement. So I don’t want to do that. I see myself staying fully active right up to the end, whenever that is."Even if Fox doesn't move on from Bradshaw, the NFL could (in theory) move on from Fox. The current deal between the NFL and Fox can be terminated by the league after the 2029 season. And the relentless political pressure that Fox owner Rupert Murdoch has placed on the NFL could prompt the league to move away from Fox, as soon as 2030.Regardless, Bradshaw has the right attitude. Keep working, for as long as you can work. Because, frankly, covering the NFL doesn't really feel like "work."

Erling Haaland scored his first two World Cup goals, including one off a defensive blunder, and added an assist in his tournament debut Tuesday to propel Norway to a 4-1 victory over Iraq in Group I.It was the 56th and 57th international goals for the Manchester City striker and came in Norway’s first appearance in the tournament since reaching the round of 16 at the 1998 World Cup in France — two years before Haaland was born.Leo Ostigard added the third goal in the 76th minute off a corner kick from Martin Odegaard. Kristian Thorstvedt scored the final goal just before the final whistle off Haaland’s assist.Iraq briefly equalized just nine minutes after Haaland’s first strike on a goal by Aymen Hussein.But Haaland put the Norwegians in front for good just before halftime when he snuck in front of a poor back pass to Iraq goalkeeper Jalal Hassan. Haaland beat him to the ball, preempting his attempted clearance, and then used his shin to put the ball in the back of the net.Haaland’s first goal, which came in the 29th minute, came off a cross into the box from David Moller Wolfe. Haaland slid and used his right heel to finish it off. It ignited waves of cheers from the Norway supporters, who dominated the stands clad in red as they broke out in synchronized Viking row chants.Iraq, playing in the World Cup for just the second time after debuting in 1986, held its own with a sizeable contingent of supporters that was mostly concentrated behind one of the goals.That energy helped Iraq briefly get back into the game.It came in the 38th minute when Amir Alammari corralled a ball on the baseline halfway between the left corner and the goal and fired a cross in front of the net. It eluded Norway’s defenders, allowing Hussein to punch a clean header that bounced under the hand of diving goalkeeper Orjan Nyland to even the score at 1-1.It was Hussein’s 34th international goal for Iraq. That includes his winning goal against Bolivia in Iraq’s final World Cup qualifying match in April that gave the country the final spot in the 48-team tournament field.This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW

An Essay on Before and After John McGuinness at Ballaugh Bridge. Still a top 5 Superbike TT rider after 30 years on the Mountain Course. Photo by Tracey's Pictures IOM. Approaching 20 years of attending the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy (and/or Manx Grand Prix) races, I have a suspicion that the TT's history will someday be divided into two distinct eras.Before the movie. And after the movie.Upon seeing Channing Tatum and Eve Hewson in race suits and producer Brad Pitt surrounded by film crews at work on "The Isle of Man" at the 2026 TT, that thought kept creeping into my head. While spectating from a rickety platform at Rhencullen with my main man from Manchester, Kes Scott. In the parc fermé talking to racers like Shaun Anderson. Bopping through Douglas for another spectacular dinner at Peter Ingrassia's Nuovo Isola. And at my favorite local pub, The Woodbourne. Especially at The Woody. Two film bikes with stunt riders aboard at speed on the TT course, part of the ‘Isle Of Man' film now in production. No, that's not Channing Tatum. Photo by Tracey's Pictures IOM. Things I heard: "The movie will ruin the TT." "It was so much better in the old days." "We're going to lose what makes the TT special." "After 55 years of coming over, I'll not be back."Now, I've heard versions of those conversations for years, but they seemed louder this time around, and the concern is understandable. Unlike MotoGP or Formula 1, the TT has never been a polished entertainment product. For 119 years, it's been an analog, semi-professional, blue-collar, history-drenched, "Is this really allowed?" adventure. A place where, beyond a handful of stars, many competitors and team members are still bricklayers, carpenters, mechanics, and small business owners using holiday time and hard-earned savings to chase a dream around the Mountain Course, sleeping in the van for two weeks. And almost every year, some bad things happen. The passing of Daniel Ingham, a 33-year-old rider from England, after an incident in qualifying, was another chilling reminder of the unique dangers of the TT. All of this is held together though with the unequalled feeling of ownership by the fans and the Manx people, a community that has supported the riders, teams and the entire meet through thick and thin, death and glory. Two film bikes with stunt riders aboard at speed on the TT course, part of the ‘Isle Of Man' film now in production. No, that's not Channing Tatum. Photo by Tracey's Pictures IOM. But newer and younger global audiences who may not have been alive for Joey's exploits have different experiential expectations and new technologies that present sports, and the TT in particular, in ways unimaginable back in the pudding- bowl helmet era. And the TT must evolve in terms of the racing, the experience for attendees and viewers, and the economic models needed for it to survive and thrive in a very different world.Hey, a movie is what did it for many of us far afield of the Isle of Man. When I first discovered the TT, as a dirt bike kid in New Jersey in the ‘70s, I'd wait for motorcycle magazines to arrive a month or two after the event, and pore over grainy photos and race reports and wonder what it would feel like to stand beside Bray Hill or watch motorcycles fly over Ballaugh Bridge. But it was Peter Starr's film Take It To The Limit, with the Mike Hailwood on- board scenes around the Mountain Course, that gave me the first video glimpse I'd ever seen. I immediately knew I was going to the TT someday. But I didn't know a single person who had ever actually been to the TT until I was nearly fifty years old. And that guy was me. Michael Dunlop astride the beautifully turned out replica of the winning Honda VTR1000 SP-1 ridden by Joey in the 2000 Formula One TT race. Photo by IOM TT Press. I became obsessed with a wonderfully obscure and dangerous thing on a misty island. I came over year after year, Marshaling the races, the knowledge passed on to me by stalwarts like Peter Thompson of Llandudno, Wales, 60+ years of TT and Manx Grand Prix trips under his belt, a proud TT Marshal on Bray Hill, with every nook and cranny of Mona's Isle memorized. US attendees were thin on the ground back then. I made friends from around the world, I got hooked, and the TT became the center of my moto and travel life. But it still felt like a secret. I'd mention the TT to non- motorcycle folks, and they'd tilt their head like a dog does when you ask it a question. Riders use all the road, and then some. Especially Dunlop. Photo by IOM TT Press. I suppose the scarcity was part of the mystique. But over the years, I've evangelized the TT and the wonderful Isle of Man here in Motorcycle.com, and to anyone who made the mistake of asking me what my TT T-shirt was about. I spent great energy explaining to my bewildered yet immensely supportive spouse Cynthia why decamping to a damp island to watch motorcycles disappear up a mountain while sitting on hedges where midges bite and cow patties are abundant for two weeks is a perfectly rational annual vacation choice. I eventually brought over scores of people to the IOM on trips of their lifetime. I passed on the knowledge as it had been passed on to me.Well, the secret is out now. The TT reaches the world instantly. Live streaming. Social media. Daily videos. Influencers. And within the next year or so, there will be a documentary and a Hollywood movie introducing millions of people to an event they've only vaguely heard about. Peter Thompson of Wales and the Author, Marshaling at Manx Grand Prix 2008. 60 years of the knowledge being passed on. Photo by Andrew Capone. Formula 1 discovered that to grow, they needed audiences beyond diehard fans, people who crave stories and personalities with their sports. I know people whose automotive passions peaked with leasing a Subaru Outback, who after watching Drive to Survive, now speak confidently about tire degradation, pit windows, and the emotional fragility of Italian team principals. The same people who, not long ago, were buttonholing me at neighborhood parties to explain the strategic nuances of pickleball. Give the TT the same Hollywood treatment and it may be only a matter of time before your accountant has very strong opinions about whether it's best to watch the Supersport Race from Cronk-y-Voddy or Ballacraine. (The answer is Cronk-y-Voddy.) John McGuinness and Dean Harrison at Glen Helen, dicing at 130 in a very technical part of the course. Photo by Tracey's Pictures IOM. The crew for the Isle of Man (that is the film's full title) has been embedded on the island for nearly four years. I met again with Paul Phillips, the IOM Head of Motorsport, and we discussed how the feature and the documentary will impact the TT and the island overall."Reid Carolin, the writer and director, really cares deeply about the nuance of the event and the cast and crew have been fantastic in terms of adjusting on the fly to the realities of capturing something as unique as the TT." He added, "I must say it's still a bit surprising having Channing Tatum stroll by and say ‘hi' to me." Things normal in Brentwood are not necessarily normal in Douglas. Paul Phillips, IOM Head of Motorsport, starts working on the next year's TT the day after the Senior. We discussed the push and pull of the new versus old, the before versus the after. Paul has a firm commitment to keeping the TT healthy and accessible. "Ultimately, my job is about managing growth, ensuring we can thrive in a changing world, and always pondering where will the TT be five years from now? But as a working-class kid myself, I can never see the day where the TT doesn't allow a fan to grab a space on the ferry, use a hotel or Homestay or pitch a tent for accommodations, and watch free racing with an open paddock and have loads of cheap fun. It is always going to have a blue-collar core, even if some people want a more deluxe experience, which we can also deliver."The most intense conversations at TT 2026 weren't about Hollywood, they were about the sidecars. After serious qualifying accidents involving Maria Costello and Shaun Parker and, a day later, race favorites Ryan and Callum Crowe, on the heels of some terrible crashes over the last few years, the unprecedented decision was made to suspend the entire Sidecar program for the remainder of the 2026 TT. Everyone I spoke with was shocked, pensive, worried. The Crowe Brothers during the bedeviled Sidecar Qualifying session. Photo by IOM TT Press. Outfits are part of the TT's DNA and have been astonishing spectators on the Mountain Course for generations, requiring a unique blend of courage, engineering, and a complete disregard for Newtonian physics. Watching a passenger climb around an outfit at triple-digit speeds remains one of the great spectacles in motorsport. The lingering question is what happens next. Maria Costello, the most prominent woman competitor at the TT suffered a terrible incident and is beginning a challenging recovery. Photo by IOM TT Press. TT Clerk of the Course Gary Thompson said that the recent incidents require further investigation before the class returns. He has just launched a TT Sidecar Sustainability Review. "The decision to suspend the Sidecar class during this year's event was not taken lightly. Sidecars have a long and important history at the Isle of Man TT and are valued by competitors, teams, officials, and fans alike. We are committed to ensuring that the process is open, balanced, and evidence led."The sidecars and their avid supporters and fans deserve that effort. They're too much a part of the TT's history, character, and identity to become a museum piece.Touring around the island this year, I found myself thinking that change has always been the story here, often in the same fortnight. Practice Week (Okay, fine qualifying week - there I go resisting change) 2026 arrived under glorious blue skies and 75-degree weather. My trusty Suzuki V-Strom 650 started with the push of a button after a year-long nap at Ian Birdsall's Classique Vehicle Care in Ballasalla, and I took to the seaside at Port Erin. Newly crimson-skinned locals frolicked on the beach. Once the first ice cream of many were downed, it was a sweet run over the Round Table and up through Injebreck, ending up at The Raven Pub in Ballaugh for a qualifying session. Ideal weather during Practice Week allowed for time to poke around the island, visit friends, meander the paddock and talk to teams and riders, and view evening qualifying sessions before the hordes descend. Doing the TT the right way means stolen moments on a motorbike on the backroads and towns all around the beautiful Isle of Man. The author's trusty Suzuki V-Strom 650, off the grid up Druidale way. Photo by Andrew Capone. Then race week arrived, and the weather remembered where we were. The Cloak of Manannan descended. Rain. Wind. Cold. Race Delays. Rescheduled races. Re-rescheduled races. Cancelled races. The Senior TT, completely cancelled due to weather last year, was red flagged after one lap this year, with Dean Harrison getting the trophy. Throughout, pubs were filled with amateur meteorologists. Stories grew taller by the pint. Sod it. Delays at the TT and the time spent chatting with hale fellows well met often become some of the best memories.But we saw John McGuinness, at 52, still on it and nailing 5th place in the Superbike race. Will it be his last TT? Dunlop maintaining his Supersport dominance and now owning a remarkable 36 TT victories. Twenty-year-old Rhys Stephenson was the youngest rider in the 2026 TT and won the Vernon Cooper Newcomers Trophy. The TT is still an aspiration for racers. The author's trusty Suzuki V-Strom 650, off the grid up Druidale way. Photo by Andrew Capone. Carolyn Sells at the front of the massive Legacy Lap, with WRWR and the new Norton Manx. Credit IOM TT Press.One of the key moments this year was the annual Legacy Lap, this time led by Women Riders World Relay. Watching women motorcyclists lead a multi-mile long parade of riders taking a lap of the Mountain Course felt like another glimpse of how the TT, and motorcycling, will broaden their appeal. Leaders of the ride included Carolyn Sells, the first female to win a solo race on the TT Mountain Course at the Manx Grand Prix in 2009. She rode the exquisite new Norton Manx. And there was friend, and former colleague at the Women Riders Now publication, the remarkably accomplished land speed record holder Erin Sills-Kuykendall as well, who summed it up perfectly. That's rightly proud American land speed record holder Erin Sills-Kuykendall with hand in the air. Credit IOM TT Press. "This gathering of hundreds of women from around the globe exemplifies what happens when someone with a simple idea networks with her community - that idea becomes a movement," she said. "I couldn't be prouder to represent women in land-speed racing as I travel the 37.73-mile TT course in front of 3,000 other riders making history." This was Erin's first TT visit. She will be back.Some people come to the TT and decide the Isle of Man is the place for them and plant roots. Chris Beauman did it 44 years ago. The Bronx native is now a cornerstone of the sidecar community, a big supporter and media documentarian of the TT, and proprietor of the brand-new and thriving Motor Isle Bar and Grill in Douglas. "I love it here, and feel strongly about giving back, creating a center of gravity around racing, building a community," said Beauman, surveying his packed bar. From The Bronx to Long Island to The Isle Of Man. Chris Beaumann has had a big impact on the TT community. Photo by Andrew Capone. Some move to the Isle of Man for other reasons, stumble upon the races, and become radiant fans. Catherine Hall found the IOM stunning and peaceful while visiting her son and decided to move over in 2022. Over drinks with a group of friends and family at the Top Bar at the Falcon's Nest Hotel in Port Erin, (grab a sunset seat and a drink here or at nearby favorite Foraging Vintners, and you'll want to move to the IOM too) Catherine said "The TT was not on my list of reasons to move here, but experiencing this tiny island become the vibrant, welcoming epicenter of the global motorsport world every year is an absolute thrill. I love the racing now and I feel enormously proud to live here!" The Author with friends made at the TT, at sunset at Foraging Vintners in Port Erin. Photo by Andrew Capone. So, as I tucked away the Wee-Strom (I still say it's the ideal bike to leave here and faultlessly carry me around each year) it hit that the rest of the world may soon understand what the Isle of Man has been proudly presenting since 1907. I suspect, due to the film and docuseries, that the TT will appear on more bucket lists. Maybe a few ‘get ready with me for the TT' TikToks. Perhaps a Kardashian at The Creg-ny-Baa. It will bring more visitors and viewers who don't own motorcycles but find the spectacle engrossing. It will bring tourism and sponsorship and streaming revenue to the IOM government, the populace, businesses, the racers and teams. It may create some dissonance with long time fans and locals.I do understand the old-timers. Staring back from the mirror myself at 68 years of age, I wonder if some of what we're mourning isn't the old TT, but our own youth. Some of us, I suspect, would rather roll the TT up and take it home with us than accept that the TT will evolve, the next generation will discover it on their own terms, and make it their own passion play. The TT fan base is growing and evolving, and we shall see what the future holds. Photo by IOM TT Press. No doubt there were grizzled veterans in the 1970s convinced that the new crowd of long-haired café racer kids were soiling the event, and that Peter Starr had bloody nerve making a movie that would bring over know-nothing undesirables. But if you weren't born yet in 1978, it doesn't matter whether the TT was "better" then. You only get the TT of your own time. And it is the best time.Many people say the movie will be a farce and destroy the TT. They're wrong. Yes, some newbies will come because of the movie. Or streaming, or YouTube or TikTok clips. The same way my generation came because somebody handed us Cycle magazine and said, "You've got to see this." And some may only come over one time when they realize that it is expensive and hard to get to the Isle of Man, competitors die, it is often wet, there are only two Starbucks, and the burgers kinda suck. (Sorry, most of them do, except for Porters Kitchen… theirs are great.) From a few years back, our friend group comes from far afield, and makes new memories each TT. Photo by Andrew Capone. But many will get hooked and become the new TT veterans over time. They'll Marshal. Sponsor riders. Evangelize the Isle of Man and the TT. Twenty-five years from now, today's newcomers might be the old guys sat in The Woody talking to the TT virgins at the next table about how wonderful the races were the first time they came over back in the 2020s.Hollywood may change how people discover the TT, but I doubt it'll alter what they find when they get there. Only the delivery system changes. The magic doesn't. The impressive Dean Harrison with his impressive Superbike trophy. Photo by IOM TT Press. Become a Motorcycle.com insider. Get the latest motorcycle news first by subscribing to our newsletter here.

The Arizona Cardinals could potentially add another quarterback this offseason. Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby, who applied to enter the NFL supplemental draft, is having a pro day so teams can see him work out in person. According to ESPN's Pete Thamel, that pro day is tentatively scheduled for July 10 at Carroll High School in Southlake, Texas. Sorsby played two seasons for Indiana and the last two seasons for Cincinnati but transferred to Texas Tech this offseason. Since the transfer, he admitted to gambling tens of thousands of dollars on sports, including college football and even his own teams, dating back to his freshman year at Indiana. He went to rehab for treatment and then had his eligibility revoked by the NCAA. He went to court and was granted an injunction that would restore his eligibility throughout the trial process. However, he will withdraw his suit, making him ineligible again, and turns his attention to the NFL. He was draft-eligible this year but opted to go to Texas Tech, playing one more year of college football. If the Cardinals have interest, they can get a look at him next month. They likely will, whether or not they have big interest. It is always good to evaluate players in person when you can. Get more Cardinals and NFL coverage from Cards Wire's Jess Root and others by listening to the latest on the Rise Up, See Red podcast. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube or Apple podcasts.This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: Potential supplemental draft prospect Brendan Sorsby to hold pro day

Jun. 16—GRAND FORKS — A family-owned Grand Forks-based grocery chain will continue as the naming sponsor of the local BMX track for another five years.Hugo's Family Marketplace's commitment means the track will continue to be known as Hugo's Raceway.The announcement came Tuesday from Red River BMX and Oak View Group, which manages the Alerus Center on behalf of the city.As noted in the announcement, Hugo's Raceway has hosted local, regional and national events while providing opportunities for youth of all ages to participate. It is located adjacent to the Alerus Center.A celebration will be held to kick off the 2026 Red River Nationals at 1 p.m. on July 17 at Hugo's Raceway."We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Red River BMX and Hugo's Raceway," Kristi Magnuson Nelson, president and CEO of Hugo's Family Marketplace, said in the announcement. "Over the past five years, we've seen firsthand the positive impact this facility has had on youth and families throughout our community. Supporting opportunities that encourage recreation and community engagement aligns perfectly with our mission, and we're excited to be part of Hugo's Raceway's future."Red River BMX board member Danny Weigel said the organization is grateful for the commitment by Hugo's."Their support has helped us build and sustain a first-class facility that provides opportunities for all skill levels," he said. "This renewed partnership will allow us to continue investing in our programs, hosting high-quality events and creating memorial experiences for kids in our community."

Footage of unidentified media personnel making disparaging comments about South Korea captain Son Heung-min and his military service was leaked, leading to a team media blackout during the 2026 World Cup, according to multiplereports Tuesday.JTBC, South Korea’s official broadcast rights holder for the tournament, reportedly picked up an insulting conversation between a pair of journalists during a training session on June 7, four days before the squad’s 2-1 win over Czechia in Group A competition.Able-bodied men in South Korea are required to complete around 18-21 months of military service. But exemptions are granted, including for medal-winning athletes. Son, now 33, was given one for helping his country win gold at the 2018 Asian Games. Instead, he performed alternative duties, such as a military training course in 2020 during the pandemic. Son famously played for Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League from 2015-25. He left the club to join the MLS’ LAFC last summer. The standout forward remains an integral piece of the South Korea men’s national team, for which he’s made 146 appearances since debuting in 2010.The footage of the conversation, in which Son’s military service was mocked, was broadcast in Korea, according to The Athletic. Backlash followed, as reported by The Associated Press.Son had chances to score in his team’s World Cup opener last Thursday; however, he couldn’t find the back of the net. South Korea got goals from Hwang In-beom and Oh Hyeon-gyu against Czechia in Guadalajara, Mexico.Following the match, Son reportedly declined to speak to members of the media. On Monday, per The Athletic, the Korean Football Association released a statement that condemned the “inappropriate remarks” made by the media. “The Korea Football Association respects the reporting activities and the role of the media,” the statement read, via The Athletic.“However, on-site reporting must also be conducted based on mutual respect and trust, and respect for and protection of the players must take precedence.“In response, the Korea Football Association requests that media outlets and reporters show greater consideration and a responsible attitude toward the national team and players to prevent similar situations from recurring.“I ask the media and members of the football community to unite in support so that the South Korean national football team can showcase its best performance on the World Cup stage. The Korea Football Association will continue to prioritize the protection of the players and strive to create a healthy media environment.”South Korea’s next match is on Thursday. It will face Mexico in Guadalajara.

One of the top defensive edge rushers out of the state of Virginia is leaving the Old Dominion for the Sunshine State. [ $19.99 gets you a FULL year of On3 | Rivals national coverage ]According to a announcement via social media, Class of 2028 EDGE Lincoln Hallidayannounced that he’s leaving defending Virginia Class 6 state champion Chesapeake (Va.)·Oscar Smith for nationally ranked Bradenton (Fla.) IMG Academy. Halliday currently has collegiate offers from schools like Michigan, South Carolina, Syracuse, Rutgers and Virginia Tech, respectively. New Chapter!!! Time to work. @CoachKiddIMG@dzoloty@ChadSimmons_@CraigHaubert@DemetricDWarren@TheUCReport@BrianDohn247@SWiltfong_@adamgorney@TomLoy247@TomLuginbill@Andrew_Ivinspic.twitter.com/vwWZIlOqHJ— Lincoln Halliday (@27LincolnH) June 16, 2026IMG Academy recently received multiple big name transfers from the Northeast, with former Camden (NJ) teammates 2028 four-star offensive lineman Eytan D’Oleo, 2028 three-star EDGE Andre Robinson heading their way. Now with Halliday joining the Ascenders, it continues the stockpiling of top players from other states around the nation. Among the teams the vaunted Ascenders will face this upcoming fall season are against national powerhouses like St. Louis (HI), The St. James Academy (Va.), Cornerstone Christian (TX), New Palestine (IN), NFL Academy (UK), Hun School (N.J.) and rival St. Frances Academy (Md.) on Nov. 13.Coming off an undefeated 9-0 campaign, the Ascenders return one of the most talented high school football rosters in the country, featuring the likes of 2027 five-star EDGE Zyron Forstall (Texas A&M commit), 2027 four-star wide receiver Eric McFarland, 2027 four-star linebacker Amarri Irvin (Notre Dame commit) and 2028 four-star quarterback Jayden Wade (Georgia commit).The Ascenders ended this past season with a 10-0 record and finishing at No. 1 in the final 2025 Florida High School Football Massey Rankings and No. 3 nationally, according to the Rivals National 2025 High School Football Composite Rankings. More about IMG AcademyEstablished in 1978, with a pioneering concept known as the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy, IMG Academy has since grown to become a global phenomenon. Today, IMG Academy is the world’s leading sports education brand, providing access and opportunity for student-athletes with an innovative suite of on-campus and online programming. IMG Academy is the only education brand directly responsible for filling one-quarter of all college roster spots on an annual basis. In 2021 alone, IMG Academy helped place 30,000 kids into college.

On the first day of the Detroit Lions' mandatory minicamp, star tight end Sam LaPorta was a partial participant.That tracks with the rest of this spring, where LaPorta has been limited to light jogging and walk-through work throughout OTAs. LaPorta underwent back surgery last November on a herniated disc that he sustained during the Lions' Week 10 win over the Washington Commanders.Asked if LaPorta would be ready for the start of camp, Lions head coach Dan Campbell shared a promising update.Coach Campbell on Sam LaPorta. pic.twitter.com/GAZ5bKBXco— Detroit Lions (@Lions) June 16, 2026"We like where he's going. He's trending the right way," Campbell said.LaPorta is up for a contract extension this summer. ESPN's Adam Schefter sounded optimistic last month on the Lions' prospects of getting an extension done with both LaPorta and running back Jahmyr Gibbs this offseason.Most importantly for Detroit, they need LaPorta back on the field and healthy as they look to make a run back to the top of the NFC North and into Super Bowl contention.LaPorta burst onto the scene with 889 yards and 10 touchdowns on 86 catches during his rookie campaign in 2023. The 6-foot-3, 245-pound tight end was a Pro Bowler and earned second-team All-Pro status in 2023.LaPorta followed up his rookie campaign with 60 receptions for 726 yards and seven scores in 2024. Then, in just nine games last year, LaPorta hauled in 40 grabs for 489 yards and three touchdowns.For more Lions coverage, follow us on X, @TheLionsWire, and give our Facebook page a like. Follow Josh on X, @JoshOnLionsThis article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Lions TE Sam LaPorta 'trending the right way' for training camp

As the "Protect College Sports Act" makes its way through the Senate, the NFL has chimed in. Along with the NFL Players Association.Both support the legislation."The National Football League applauds Senators Ted Cruz, Maria Cantwell, Eric Schmitt, and Chris Coons for their bipartisan leadership in introducing the Protect College Sports Act of 2026," the NFL said in a statement issued on Tuesday."Healthy, stable, and thriving collegiate athletics is essential to the future of American sports, including Olympic sports, and this legislation is an important step to achieving that for the benefit of all college athletes and institutions alike."By utilizing proven models like the voluntary pooling of media rights under the Sports Broadcasting Act, which supports broad, fan-friendly distribution of NFL games, this legislation will support college athletics and ensure fans will be able to access their favorite games across today’s changing media landscape."The League looks forward to continue working with Congressional leaders as this bill moves through the legislative process."The NFLPA, along with the NBA Players Association, separately communicated their joint support for the bill in a letter to its sponsors.That's fine, but the NCAA and its members still shouldn't need Congress to wave a magic wand. They made this mess, through decades of blatant antitrust violations. They should be expected to clean it up.And the sports that generate significant revenue shouldn't be expected to subsidize the ones that don't.

OKC Thunder superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander announced Tuesday on Instagram that he has made the move from Converse to Nike.Gilgeous-Alexander originally signed with Converse in 2020 and became the creative director of the brand’s basketball department in 2024. He then released his first signature sneaker, the SHAI 001, this past September.Converse is a subsidiary of Nike, which boasts a stacked roster of signature athletes. Gilgeous-Alexander now joins fellow superstars such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo.It’s an exclusive club for someone who has solidified himself as an elite basketball player. Gilgeous-Alexander led OKC to its first championship in franchise history two seasons ago and recently won a second straight Most Valuable Player award.Nike said in statement: "We are thrilled to welcome Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to the Nike Basketball signature family. Coming after back-to-back MVP seasons, we are excited to build on Shai's incredible impact with Converse as one of the most creative leaders in the game."More: OKC Thunder roster faces pivotal 2026 NBA offseason. Where does each player stand?Is reigning NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander shifting his shoe deal from Converse to Nike?? 👀 pic.twitter.com/x1jaD0d4sG— Nick DePaula (@NickDePaula) June 16, 2026Justin Martinez covers the Thunder and NBA for The Oklahoman. Have a story idea for Justin? He can be reached at jmartinez@oklahoman.com or on X/Twitter at @Justintohoops. Sign up for the Thunder Sports Minute newsletter to access more NBA coverage. Support Justin's work and that of other Oklahoman journalists by purchasing a digital subscription today at subscribe.oklahoman.com.This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OKC Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to leave Converse for Nike

The runways at Ronald Reagan National Airport will be closed after noon on July 4, and for several hours on July 3. Other celebrations surrounding the nation’s 250th birthday are also expected to cause disruptions.

As a child, he discovered that his father — and therefore he and his siblings — had been passing for white. For the rest of his life, he identified as Black.

The weather forecast for the Appleton area has resulted in some shuffling with the WIAA state baseball tournament schedule for games on Wednesday, June 17.The Division 1 semifinal game between Kaukauna (22-7) and Nicolet (19-11) will be played at Appleton North High School at 10 a.m.The other Division 1 semifinal game between Madison Memorial (21-7) and Muskego (25-4) will be played at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium at 2:30 p.m.VOTE NOW: Choose from seven nominees for Cellcom Post-Crescent athlete of the weekThe Division 2 semifinal games will be played at Fox Cities Stadium but will start one hour earlier than originally scheduled. Kenosha St. Joseph Catholic (24-6) will play Waupun (24-5) at 8 a.m., followed by Pewaukee (28-2) against Somerset (20-9).Championship games in all four divisions are scheduled for Thursday, June 18, at Fox Cities Stadium.The Division 4 title game is set as Potosi/Cassville (20-7) will play Columbus Catholic (23-6) at 9:05 a.m. This article originally appeared on Appleton Post-Crescent: WIAA high school state baseball tournament schedule altered by weather

The North Carolina Tar Heels are off to a hot start in College World Series play, winning their first two games with a combination of shutdown pitching and clutch hitting.UNC began its Omaha trip with a 6-2 comeback win vs. Ole Miss on Friday, June 12. Two days later, North Carolina pulled away late once again, beating West Virginia 5-2 to move one victory away from the CWS finals.There's just one more opponent standing between the Diamond Heels and that final series. If you guessed West Virginia, you are correct.As a result of the Mountaineers' dominant, 12-0 obliteration of Troy in Tuesday's elimination game, a Wednesday rematch now awaits.UNC will battle West Virginia on Wednesday at 2 p.m. ET. North Carolina needs just one more win, while the Mountaineers are looking to force another game on Thursday.The Diamond Heels started hot Sunday, playing two runs against WVU star Maxx Yehl. UNC first baseman Erik Paulsen drew a bases-loaded walk, scoring Gavin Gallaher, then Cooper Nicholson scored Owen Hull on a bases-loaded groundout.The Mountaineers responded to tie Sunday's original matchup, thanks to an Armani Guzman single and Sean Smith scoring on a double play. North Carolina charged ahead with a 3-run seventh, starting with a Gallaher triple and ending with a Hull single, while Walker McDuffie and Caden Glauber shut WVU hitters down.As you prepare to watch Wednesday afternoon's rematch, keep reading for this can't-miss preview with broadcast information, UNC's key to victory, picks and players to watch from both teams.What channel is UNC-West Virginia's CWS baseball rematch on Wednesday? Time, TV schedule, radioTV Channel: ESPNTime: Wednesday, June 17 at 2 p.m.Radio: SiriusXM (Channel 84)Website: WatchESPNUNC's Key to VictoryFolger Boaz has to cool down the Mountaineers' bats.West Virginia scored 12 runs on Tuesday, racking up 14 hits and eight walks. The Mountaineers played with a sense of desperation, looking like the better team against Troy from opening pitch.Boaz, UNC's typical Sunday starter, is struggling this season with a 7.03 earned run average. Boaz is 3-3 with a 1.85 WHIP, with hitters mashing a red-hot .332 off him.On paper, this combination doesn't bode well for the Diamond Heels. Boaz struck out four ECU batters in the Chapel Hill Regional, though, allowing just one run.If North Carolina wants to win Wednesday's rematch and clinch its CWS finals berth, Boaz has to at least neutralize WVU's bats.UNC vs. West Virginia prediction, picks, oddsUNC enters this rematch well-rested, last playing on Sunday. West Virginia just smacked Troy in Tuesday's elimination game, 12-0.The Mountaineers will be hungry for this rematch. It's tough to score 12 runs in consecutive games, but WVU's bats are hot.The Diamond Heels will start a struggling Boaz on the mound, but Glauber, McDuffie and Jackson Rose will be available in the bullpen. North Carolina's hitters are always a threat, too.West Virginia jumps on Boaz early, while pitching performs against. These teams will play Thursday for a third time this season.Score prediction: West Virginia 7, UNC 3Players to Watch from UNCRF Carter French: 2-for-3, one walk, one run scored during Sunday's 5-2 win vs. WVU3B Cooper Nicholson: 1-for-4, one run batted in during Sunday's 5-2 winSP Folger Boaz: 3-3, 7.03 ERA, 1.85 WHIP, .332 BAA, 81 hits and 44 earned runs allowed, 53 strikeouts, 56 1/3 innings pitchedRP Jackson Rose: 4-0, 2.35 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, .174 BAA, 44 K, 46 IPPlayers to Watch from West VirginiaUTL Armani Guzman: 2-for-4, 2 RBI, 2 BB, 2 runs scored during Tuesday's 12-0 win over Troy2B Gavin Kelly: 3-for-6, 4 RBI (one HR), 2 runs scored during Tuesday's winSP Chansen Cole: 2 2/3 IP, seven hits and four runs allowed, one hit batter, two strikeouts during June 12's 7-5 win vs. TroyRP Ian Korn: 6 IP, 3 BB, 2 H, 1 ER, one wild pitch, four K's during June 12's 7-5 win vs. TroyThis article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: College World Series: UNC-WVU rematch info, prediction

The Houston Rockets have had players donning a total of 52 different jersey numbers (and have one not part of any numerical series for Houston assistant coach and general manager Carroll Dawson) since their founding at the start of the 1967-68 season, worn by just under 500 players in the course of Rockets history.To honor all of the players who wore those numbers over the decades, Rockets Wire is covering the entire history of jersey numbers and the players who wore them since the founding of the team all those years ago right up to the present day.With seven of those jerseys now retired to honor some of the greatest Rockets of all time to wear those jerseys, there is a lot of history to cover.And for today's article, we will continue with the seventh of seven who wore the No. 18, forward alum Thabo Sefolosha. After starting his pro career abroad, Sefolosha was picked up with the 13th overall selection of the 2006 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers.The Vevey, Switzerland native would play parts of the first three seasons of his pro career with the Chicago Bulls, however, after a draft night deal. He also played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Atlanta Hawks, and Utah Jazz before he signed with the Houston Rockets in 2019 for the final season of his career.During his time suiting up for the Rockets, Sefolosha wore only jersey No. 18 and put up 2.2 points and 2.3 rebounds per game.All stats and data courtesy of Basketball Reference.This article originally appeared on Rockets Wire: Rockets jersey history No. 18 - Thabo Sefolosha (2019-20)

The Brooklyn Nets have developed their teams through a number of strategies over the decades, and their front office has put together considerable success through the NBA draft. Many of the franchise's best players have joined the Nets either by being selected directly in the annual draft or through trades made on that day.Moreover, it is not only the star players who have been acquired by the Nets through the draft. Several prominent alumni have been selected by the team each offseason during this annual event, with certain colleges being more prominently represented than others. An analysis of the players from different schools reveals that both prestigious programs and smaller institutions have contributed top talent to the Nets' roster over the years.So without further ado, let's take a look at every player who has been drafted by the Nets out of Princeton.Frank Sowinski - guardDraft year and position: 9th round (1st pick, 171st overall), 1978 NBA DraftSeasons at Princeton: 3Seasons played with Nets: did not make the teamRich Simkus - centerDraft year and position: 10th round (17th pick, 222nd overall), 1983 NBA DraftSeasons at Princeton: 4Seasons played with Nets: did not make the teamBill Ryan - guardDraft year and position: 9th round (16th pick, 200th overall), 1984 NBA DraftSeasons at Princeton: 4Seasons played with Nets: did not make the teamAll stats and data courtesy of Basketball Reference.This article originally appeared on Nets Wire: Every Princeton player drafted by the Nets

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - JUNE 10: Harry Kane #9 of England applauds the fans after victory at the end of the International Friendly match between England and Costa Rica at Inter&Co Stadium on June 10, 2026 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Eddie Keogh - The FA/The FA via Getty Images) | The FA via Getty Images The Kansas City area clearly had their best officers on the case as England got most of its gear back. On Friday, the Three Lions discovered that a team van was broken into and a lot of the teams gear was ripped off by some local scallywags, but England’s World Cup preparations received a welcome boost after authorities recovered the majority of the training equipment that had been stolen during transport to the team’s base in Kansas City. What initially appeared to be a bizarre and potentially disruptive setback has quickly turned into a positive story thanks to a swift police investigation and the recovery of most of the missing items.The theft reportedly involved training gear, boots, footballs, and other team equipment being transported from England’s pre-tournament camp in Florida to Kansas City. The incident sparked concern given the timing, coming just days before England’s World Cup opener against Croatia. However, officials confirmed that most of the stolen property has now been recovered and two suspects have been arrested in connection with the case.Perhaps the most important detail for England supporters is that no game-critical equipment was lost. Personalized boots and essential match preparation materials remained available, ensuring that Thomas Tuchel’s squad could continue its preparations without significant disruption.The incident created headlines around the football world, but it now appears to be little more than an unusual footnote in England’s World Cup journey. With the majority of the gear recovered and training proceeding as planned, the focus can return to football and England’s quest to finally end its long wait for another World Cup title. For the Three Lions, the biggest victory of the week may have been avoiding a logistical nightmare before the tournament had even truly begun.If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast, Spotify, Apple, or any leading podcast distributor… Join the conversation!Sign up for a user account and get:New, improved notifications system!Fewer adsCreate community postsComment on articles, community postsRec comments, community posts

Matt Turner Answers 26 QuestionsTwenty-six players have been named to the U.S. Men’s National Team roster for FIFA World Cup 2026. To get to know them better, we asked every player a set of 26 rapid-fire questions to learn more about their personalities and their journeys that led them to this incredible moment on the sport’s biggest stage.Here are 26 questions with goalkeeper Matt Turner:What is keeping you busy nowadays?What isn’t keeping me busy? Soccer, family, dad life, and preparation for everything. It's keeping me very, very busy.What's a perfect morning look like for you?It's always nice after a win. I'd say a perfect morning is waking up, the kids slept in until at least 7:30 or 8, having a coffee, and a little bit of a family breakfast.Are you an electric or manual toothbrush kind of guy?Obviously always starting the day with brushing my teeth. Manual toothbrush guy. Manual.What's your go-to activity for a day off with the family?I think it's pretty simple. Just spending quality time together. Getting into the city of Boston, going downtown, getting into the public garden, having a nice brunch, and enjoying the sights and sounds that the city has to offer.What's something guaranteed to put a smile on your face?Whenever I arrive back home. I could have been gone for two hours or two weeks, but when I open that door and my kids are here and they say, "Dad, Dad," and run up and give me a big hug, that's the best feeling in the world.When you know you're smiling, are you soft smile or smile with teeth?Always with the teeth. Always.What's one lesson you've learned from being a dad?I've learned a lot, but the biggest thing I've learned is having a bit of perspective. This is the best part of life, being a dad and having a family. Also, the importance of showing up regardless of what's going on in your life. Showing up and being there for the people that you care about, for your kids. It means everything.What's one word you'd use to describe your dad life?Rewarding.What's something your kids are into right now that you're also into?My son is really into dinosaurs. My daughter likes unicorns. Those are their big things. The thing they like right now on TV is "Little Einsteins," so I can kind of vibe along with that.If you weren't a goalie, what position would you play?Of course I'd want to be a number nine.If you're a number nine, do you have a goal celebration in mind?Anybody that is a number nine needs their own marquee celebration. For me, I'd want to do something with the corner flag. Maybe pretend to sing with it or something.What's your favorite part about being a goalie?You're kind of the last line of defense and you've got to problem solve and be there for people. If the ball is getting to the goalkeeper, typically something is going a little bit wrong. That means you're always there to be relied upon by your teammates.What's something people don't know about the challenges that come with being a ‘keeper?It's a mental grind. You're not always involved in the game physically. You can't just run around and make up for not feeling great with effort. You can only do what's presented to you. It's an extremely mentally taxing position.Would you prefer a clean sheet or a highlight-reel save?If it's anything like last night and I could get a little bit of both, that's the most ideal of all.Do you have any pregame rituals?Goalkeepers, we're all a bit funny. Most of us have quite a few. For me, I like to listen to the same music, eat the same foods, and say my prayers the same way.What's a hobby people would be surprised to hear you enjoy?I think people would be surprised to know that I like musicals.What's your favorite musical?"Hamilton."Do you have a go-to karaoke song in the car?I'd say my go-to karaoke song is probably "Bartender" by T-Pain.What's your favorite city you've visited?I've been all over, but I'd say my favorite is London. I've lived there and visited there as a tourist, and it's just an unbelievable city.What's your favorite thing about living in New England?Overall, just the people. It's homey. I have family here. They come in for the games and we get together, which is really nice. Being close to family and the people in general.What are three words your USMNT teammates would use to describe you?Reliable, hardworking and caring.Who is one person who really assisted you on your journey to becoming a professional soccer player?Any professional soccer player has been built up by a village of people. If I had to pinpoint one specific person, I'd probably talk about my goalkeeper coach from college, Javier Decima. Without him, I don't think there was even a chance for me to become a professional to begin with.What does it mean to you to wear the crest?Wearing the crest means everything to me. It's a summation of all the people who have helped lift me up. It's the thing I care about most in soccer. Everything I've done and every decision I've ever made has been to best position myself for the national team.When this tournament is over and you look back, what do you hope people say about the way you played and carried yourself?I hope people look at my story and can relate to it in some ways. My story is a lot of trials and tribulations, overcoming hardships, pursuing excellence at all times, being a good person, and being a good teammate. I hope people can always see that from the outside because that's the person I want to be. I want to represent the country well and always wear my heart on my sleeve.

Buccaneers defensive tackle Vita Vea is attending the team's mandatory minicamp, avoiding a $107,911 fine for missing all three days. He is not, however, participating.Mike Garafolo of NFL Media reports that Vea's absence from drills is "contract-related."Vea, 31, is entering the final year of a $71 million contract extension he signed in January 2022. He is scheduled to make $17 million in base salary in 2026.Vea's $17.75 million annual average ranks 19th among defensive tackles. Todd Bowles was asked about Vea's absence from drills, and the Bucs coach said Vea is healthy.“We don’t need to see him right now,” Bowles said, via joebucsfan.com.

Argentina face Algeria in Group J at World Cup - listen live at top of pageBBC Radio 5 Live commentary also available via 'watch & listen' Algeria have goal ruled out minutes after Messi effort disallowedMatch being played at Kansas City Stadium in United StatesPlay the BBC predictor game before kick-offWorld Cup team guides; New laws explained; Twenty new players to watch Algeria opener disallowed minutes after after Messi has goal ruled out for Argentina

It always seemed like more a matter of when, not if Jailen Hill would announce for Nebraska and the talented defensive back pulled the trigger moments ago on the Rivals YouTube channel. “I feel great about my decision,” Hill said. “I think Nebraska is the perfect fit for me on and off the field. Every time I was there, it felt more comfortable to me and it really does feel like home.”Hill officially visited Nebraska over the weekend and said he made up his mind he would be a Husker while on campus. “That visit sealed the deal for me,” Hill said. “I can’t really describe it but it was such a special visit for me. I met so many great people and everyone took me in and made me feel like I was already part of the team.“I had been to Nebraska before but this visit was different. I learned so much more about the program, the history and the incredible tradition they have there. The fan support is incredible, I mean everywhere you go, there’s Nebraska fans and there isn’t a more loyal fanbase in the country.”Husker DB coach Addison Williams was the lead recruiter with Williams and played a huge role in his decision.“Coach Addi, that’s my guy right there,” Hill said. “I’m so thankful to him for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. He’s a coach and a mentor and friend and I can’t wait to play for him.“Coach (Matt) Rhule is an incredible person as well. He really cares about you as more than just an athlete. He wants you to succeed off the field and develop you as a man and a player and I know I’m in good hands with those guys.”Hill said making the move from Los Angles to Lincoln will be an adjustment but it’s one he’s excited for.“I’m ready for a change,” Hill said. “I think it will be good for me leave home and I like Lincoln a lot. It’s a nice college town where you can really focus on football and school. “If you want to go out, you still can but I’m going to focused on playing football, developing my game and being an impact player. I really want to come in and compete right away and the coaches told me I’ll have that opportunity and that’s what I plan to do.”Hill played his junior season at Bellflower (Calif.) St. John Bosco and had big season. He’s a sticky cover corner with a ton of length and good ball skills. He’s currently rated a four-star and the No. 336 player nationally in the Rivals Industry Ranking, an equally weighted average that utilizes all three major recruiting services.

SEATTLE (AP) — The Baltimore Orioles reinstated closer Ryan Helsley from the 15-day injured list prior to Tuesday night’s opener against the Mariners.Helsley, 31, had been on the IL since April 29 with right elbow inflammation.Right-hander Anthony Nunez was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk to make room for Helsley.“Overall, I feel really good,” Helsley said. “I’m just excited to be back up on the team.”Helsley, who signed a two-year, $28 million free agent deal with Baltimore in December, pitched to a 2.53 ERA and was 7-for-7 in save opportunities before hitting the IL.“Getting Helsley back right now, it trickles everyone down,” Orioles manager Craig Albernaz said. “Even though the bullpen did an outstanding job navigating these two months, it feels good having Helsley back.”___AP MLB: https://apnews.com/MLB

Nature, Published online: 17 June 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-01903-zExisting global efforts to reduce harms caused by smoking have targeted tobacco smoking, but vapes containing nicotine are also harmful.

Investigators are just beginning to determine what went wrong, but the Air Force has struggled to maintain the planes, which were first introduced in 1955.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Lionel Messi became the second player to score in five World Cups, giving defending champion Argentina an early 1-0 lead over Algeria on Tuesday night.Making his record sixth appearance in the tournament, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner found a crease in the Algerian defense and easily beat goalkeeper Luca Zidane for his 14th World Cup goal, sending a blue-and-white-clad crowd packed inside Arrowhead Stadium into delirium.Moments earlier, Messi had a goal disallowed for offsides.Messi joins Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal as the only players with goals in five World Cups. Ronaldo became the first in 2022 and is set to play in his sixth World Cup on Wednesday.Miroslav Klose of Germany holds the record for World Cup goals with 16, one ahead of Brazil great Ronaldo. Messi’s latest highlight pulled him into a tie for third on the career list with Kylian Mbappé — who scored two goals in France’s 3-1 win over Senegal earlier Tuesday — and Gerd Muller of West Germany.___AP World Cup: https://apnews.com/fifa-world-cup

Michigan State baseball saw its starting shortstop Dayton Murphy enter the NCAA transfer portal, and now, they will see him take his talents to a fellow Big Ten program. Purdue has landed the commitment of Murphy, who will be joining the Boilermakers in 2027.Murphy, a Crystal Lake, Ill. native, spent two years with the MSU program. Taking over the starting shortstop role in 2026, playing in 49 games while starting 45 of them. He hit .267 with a .685 OPS. As a freshman, Murphy played in 42 games, making 31 starts where he hit .186.Michigan State will now be tasked with finding a new starting shortstop for 2027.Boiler Up 🚂 @PurdueBaseball#committedpic.twitter.com/KSfcnCtiFz— Dayton Murphy (@daytonmurph) June 4, 2026Contact/Follow us @The SpartansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan State news, notes and opinion. You can also follow Cory Linsner on X @Rex_LinzyThis article originally appeared on Spartans Wire: Michigan State starting SS commits to Purdue

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Brandon Marsh, Alec Bohm and Kyle Schwarber homered, Jesús Luzardo pitched seven strong innings and the Philadelphia Phillies defeated the Miami Marlins 8-2 on Tuesday night.In a matchup of starting pitchers facing their former teams, Luzardo (6-4) was on point. He didn't allow a hit until the fifth, and yielded only two runs and five hits while striking out nine. The same couldn't be said for Miami's Tyler Phillips, who gave up all three homers to his former teammates and a two-run triple to Bryson Stott. Phillips (1-2) permitted eight runs on six hits and three walks in four innings. Marsh hit his ninth home run of the season, a two-run shot, to expand the Phillies' lead to 5-0 in the second. It was his fourth consecutive game at Citizens Bank Park with a home run. Bohm, who had an RBI single as well, also hit his ninth homer of the season, crushing a 2-0 sinker from Phillips 447 feet into the left-center seats. The last time Phillips faced the Phillies last September, he caught a line drive by Bohm to end an inning, and then showing some emotion as he walked off the field, he fired the ball behind him and it went in the direction of Bohm. Phillips later apologized to the Phillies third baseman, saying it was unintentional.Schwarber reclaimed the major league home run lead when he hit No. 25 off Phillips in the fourth. It's the ninth time in his career Schwarber has reached 25 homers in a season, including all five seasons he's played in Philadelphia.Esteury Ruiz provided the lone runs for the Marlins, hitting a two-run homer off Luzardo in the seventh. It was the first time the Marlins have lost consecutive games in June.Up nextThe Marlins will start RHP Sandy Alcantara (6-4, 4.25 ERA) in the finale of the three-game series against Phillies RHP Andrew Painter (1-7, 6.43) on Wednesday.___AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

The big news in the NFL this week so far has been that Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby has applied to enter the NFL supplemental draft. Sorsby, who was ruled ineligible to play in 2026 because of a gambling scandal but then granted eligibility through the court system via a temporary injunction, will withdraw his suit against the NCAA, becoming again ineligible, so he turns his attention to the NFL. The Arizona Cardinals, in search of a franchise quarterback for the future, could have interest in Sorsby, who is 6-3, 235 pounds, has a big arm and is athletic. They have a history of using the supplemental draft. Three times they have selected players in it. They were the last to do it. Let's look at their supplemental draft history. 2019: S Jalen ThompsonThe last player selected in the supplemental draft was Thompson in 2019. A rules violation made him ineligible at Oregon State. The Cardinals used a fifth-round pick on him, and he played seven seasons for them, starting 87 games for them. He departed in free agency this offseason to the Dallas Cowboys. He has been the Cardinals' best supplemental pick. 1990: OT Willie WilliamsThe Cardinals used a ninth-round pick in the supplemental draft to select Williams, a tackle out of LSU.He did not play in 1990 but did in 1991, appearing in all 16 games. He started three and was used as an eligible receiver. He had a three-yard touchdown catch that year.He did not play for the Cardinals after that but did play 16 games, starting five, for the New Orleans Saints in 1994 before spending time in the CFL.1989: QB Timm RosenbachRosenbach was the first player the Cardinals ever selected in the supplemental draft. They selected him in the first round in 1989. He did not declare in time for the April draft because he intended on returning to Washington State for his senior season. However, his head coach, Dennis Erickson, left to coach Miami, so he chose to go to the NFL instead of play in a new system.He started one game of the 1989 season and was the team's starter in 1990, showing some promise as a franchise quarterback. However, he would miss the entire 1991 season due to injury and start only three games in 1992 before he left the NFL.Get more Cardinals and NFL coverage from Cards Wire's Jess Root and others by listening to the latest on the Rise Up, See Red podcast. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube or Apple podcasts.This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: The Arizona Cardinals' history with the NFL supplemental draft

If Dak Prescott is lost for an extended period of time in 2026, the Dallas Cowboys are what scientists call "hosed." Unlike in 2022, when the Cowboys’ defense was good enough to hold down the fort in his absence, the current Dallas roster isn’t built to survive a long-term loss of their lead signal-caller. A short-term loss, on the other hand, might be survivable.Depending how the backup quarterbacks look this summer, the Cowboys may be able to stay afloat without Prescott for a game or two, and Joe Milton and Sam Howell will be given every opportunity to prove themselves in practices. Milton, entering Year 2 in Dallas, has the inside track. The 6-foot-5, 246-pound product of Tennessee comes with an elite physical skillset. If the Cowboys can pick one guy to hit his potential, Milton’s the guy.Howell, 6-foot-1, 220 pounds, isn’t the physical specimen Milton is, but he comes with 18 career starts under his belt and some ability to read defenses and anticipate throws. Howell’s roughly the same age as Milton but his ceiling isn’t nearly as high, so the onus is likely on him to beat out Milton.In many ways, the Cowboys offense is a backup quarterback's dream. Ceedee Lamb, George Pickens and Ryan Flournoy may be the best trio in the NFL this year, while Javonte Williams and the running game are one of the most reliable rushing attacks.Joe Milton fires one into a small window to KaVontae Turpin while on the move.“I do this! I do this! Look at God.” pic.twitter.com/jT6uJAsEFd— Nick Harris (@NickHarrisFWST) July 24, 2025The only less-than-ideal part of the Cowboys offense is the pass protection on the edges. Whoever wins the QB2 job will have to be working on a clock because the ball may need to come out fast. Oh yeah, there’s also that pesky defensive situation to work around. Under Christian Parker, the Dallas defense is expected to be better in 2026 but coming off a historically poor season, massive improvement is unlikely. Based on that, simply driving the bus at quarterback may not be enough to secure victory.With any luck, the battle for backup quarterback may not matter at all this year. But just in case QB2 does have to hold down the fort for a game or two, it’s battle that’s worth watching this summer.You can follow Reid on X @ReidDHanson and be sure to follow Cowboys Wire on Facebook to join in on the conversation with fellow fans!This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Cowboys backup QB battle of Milton vs Howell an interesting storyline

The Yankees offense exploded in support of Gerrit Cole as New York took their series opener against the White Sox, 12-2, on Tuesday night.It's the team's eighth game this season with 10-plus runs this season. New York posted 15 hits with all nine starters getting at least one knock. Here are the takeaways....-The White Sox entered Tuesday with the fourth most home runs in MLB, and showed that power early. Andrew Benintendi took Cole deep with a two-out homer to give Chicago an early 1-0 lead after one. But Cole would settle down, retiring 13 straight through five innings. He'd pitch into trouble in the sixth, allowing a run on an infield single by Luisangel Acuna, but the former AL Cy Young winner would get out of it and deliver six solid innings for the Yankees.Cole finished tossing 90 pitches (59 strikes), allowing two runs on three hits and two walks while striking out six batters. -Davis Martin had allowed just three home runs all season (13 starts). He went up against the Yankees, who entered Tuesday with the most home runs in MLB (102). Which side will blink? Well, Spencer Jones took Martin deep in the second to knot the game at 1-1 with a screamer into the second deck in right field.Then luck was on the Yankees' side in the third. An excuse-me swing by J.C. Escarra resulted in a leadoff double, then Anthony Volpe hit a hopper to second base, but first baseman Jacob Gonzalez didn't cover first, allowing runners on the corners. Ben Rice walked to load the bases before Cody Bellinger lined a two-run single to give the Yankees the lead. Jones walked with the bases loaded before Jose Caballero drove in the team's fourth run of the inning with a sac fly. Rice added on with a towering two-run shot in the fourth. His 20 homers are now tied for third in the majors. Paul Goldschmidt added a two-run shot to put the Yankees up 9-1 and knocked Martin out of the game. Martin entered the contest with a 2.41 ERA, second-best in the AL, which has been raised to 3.31 ERA.-Ryan McMahon had an RBI single and Jones scored after pitcher Chris Murphy threw a dribbler from Escarra away to account for all runs in a six-run fourth inning. In the eighth with Acuna pitching, Caballero launched his seventh homer of the season. Game MVP: Entire Yankees lineupDifficult to pick one bat in this one. They all did their job to knock around the White Sox's best starter. HighlightsCody Bellinger brings in two! 💪 pic.twitter.com/Q2Cr4ff8F9— SNY Yankees (@snyyankees) June 16, 2026Spencer Jones walks in a run pic.twitter.com/Np0AbjR2RA— SNY Yankees (@snyyankees) June 17, 2026HOME RUN NUMBER 20 FOR BEN RICE! pic.twitter.com/zDGSXNBKRR— SNY Yankees (@snyyankees) June 17, 2026GOLDY BOMB.Paul Goldschmidt makes it 9-1 Yankees! pic.twitter.com/gBQIjWlS6J— SNY Yankees (@snyyankees) June 17, 2026SPENCER JONES' FIRST YANKEE STADIUM HOME RUN! pic.twitter.com/u1cFzX208G— SNY Yankees (@snyyankees) June 16, 2026

“I think it’s only fair,” Jones said of her request to Dell. “Normal folks in the community have routinely asked, be it at public comment or at other forums, ‘Why can’t we ask them (billionaires) to pay more.’ So, I in fact did that.”San Antonio Express-NewsThis article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “Normal folks in the community have routinely asked, …

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 12: Drew Rasmussen #57 of the Tampa Bay Rays looks on before the game against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on June 12, 2026 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images) | Getty Images Go Rays!Join the conversation!Sign up for a user account and get:Fewer adsCreate community postsComment on articles, community postsRec comments, community postsNew, improved notifications system!

Lead Stories says: AI T-ShirtDid a viral image correctly what was printed on the t-shirt worn by Sean Strickland as he was escorted from a United Fighting Championship (UPC) viewing party near the White House? No, that's not true: Other images from the scene don't show him wearing a "TRUMP IS IN THE EPSTEIN FILES" t-shirt. A spokesperson for a law enforcement agency involved in Strickland's removal told Lead Stories that his outfit was different, and three online AI detectors found evidence generative AI was used to create the image.The claim appeared in a post (archived here) on X by @YourAnonNews on June 15, 2026. It opened:This should be an album cover.The attached image purported to show Strickland in a t-shirt that read:Trump is in the Epstein files.Here is what it looked like on X at the time of writing:Image source: post by @YourAnonNews on X.The picture went viral shortly after UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland was removed (archived here) from a fan event on June 14, 2026.Law enforcement statementEmily Williams (archived here), the acting chief at the U.S. Marshals Service Office of Public Affairs, told Lead Stories via email on June 16, 2026:The image is semi-correct, but the shirt is AI. The original has him in different clothing.Comparison to news photosThe real photo of the scene was published, for example, by The Los Angeles Times (archived here). In it, we can see Strickland wearing a black hoodie that mostly covered the words on his black t-shirt. However, the partially visible first line showed the letters 'NSTE. That sequence of letters is not found in "Trump", which was the first word of the t-shirt in the AI image on social media. Furthermore, whatever inscription Strickland wore was followed by what appears to be the bright green Monster Energy logo that was absent from the viral image:Image source: The Los Angeles Times.The same green symbol also appears in the video of the scene published, for instance, by the Independent (archived here).AI glitchesThe picture shared on social media had several inconsistencies pointing toward the use of AI.For example, the first line on two identical bulletproof vests worn by men in identical uniform appears to be the same, "POLICE", but the second line is different. As the fragment of the image below shows, one person's vest read "US MARS..." while another's read "IS" instead of "US":Image source: post by @YourAnonNews on X.In the real photo from actual news reports (on the right in the composite image below), the item that appears before the word "POLICE" on the bearded man's vest is not some strange insignia -- it's a clasp:Image sources: X, The Los Angeles Times.Then, the letter preceding "R" on the dark uniform of a man holding Strickland does not quite look like any letters in the English alphabet:Image source: post by @YourAnonNews on X.AI detection toolsHive Moderation said it was 99.1% likely that the image was generated or modified using AI:Image source: Hive Moderation.Sightengine concluded that the image was 99% likely to contain AI:Image source: Sightengine.ZeroGPT ruled that the picture was "96% FAKE":Image source: ZeroGPT.Lead Stories found no instances of reputable media organizations republishing the image reviewed in this fact check to illustrate reports about real-life events.

Lionel Messi World Cup goal history: Argentina legend scores 14th on exact anniversary of first originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Lionel Messi is one of the greatest soccer players of all time. Despite a legendary club career in Europe, he had to wait until 2022 to capture the one major trophy that had eluded him: the FIFA World Cup with Argentina.After lifting the trophy in Qatar with a dramatic victory over France, Messi began Argentina's 2026 World Cup campaign in Kansas City. Shortly after becoming the first player to start matches at six consecutive World Cups, he scored his 14th career World Cup goal—exactly 20 years to the day after netting his first in 2006.Although he failed to score at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, Messi has now found the back of the net in five different World Cups since making his tournament debut.Here's a look back at Messi's World Cup goals, from No. 1 through No. 14.2026 WORLD CUP HQ:Latest World Cup news | Full World Cup schedule | Buy World Cup ticketsLionel Messi World Cup goal historyYearOpponent2026Algeria (group stage)2022France (Final)2022France (Final)2022Croatia (Semifinals)2022Netherlands (Quarterfinals)2022Australia (Round of 16)2022Mexico (Group stage)2022Saudi Arabia (Group stage)2018Nigeria (Group stage) 2014Nigeria (Group stage)2014Nigeria (Group stage)2014Iran (Group stage)2014Bosnia and Herzegovina (Group stage)2006Serbia and Montenegro (Group stage)MORE WORLD CUP NEWS:Ranking World Cup groups from hardest to easiest10 World Cup teams with best chance to winRanking 7 best matches of the World Cup

Jun 16, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Toronto Blue Jays left fielder Davis Schneider (36) celebrates with his teammates after hitting a solo home run against the Boston Red Sox during the fifth inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images | Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images Blue Jays 6 Red Sox 1I’ve said my favourite thing is a Jays win and a Yankees loss. But a Red Sox loss is up there on the list of Tom’s favourtie things. No, I’m not going to start singing. It It really was the Davis Schneider/Andrés Giménez show. Schneider homered—419 feet, over the Monster—and doubled. He didn’t walk. He drove in two of our four runs. Giménez also homered right after Davis—413 feet, dead center—and doubled. Well, Springer had a day too.We also scored in the third. Andrés doubled. He was called out on the field, but it was overturned on a close challenge. Myles Straw had an incredible at-bat—14 pitches—before hitting a fly ball deep enough for Giménez to move to third. Giménez then scored on George Springer’s sacrifice fly. Dan Schulman suggested Straw might bunt, which inspired a stream of swearing from me.The scoring continued in the sixth. Kazuma Okamoto drew a one-out walk. He moved to third on Nathan Lukes’ single. Okamoto then scored on Schneider’s double.Later, in the ninth, two more runs came in: Straw walked, then Springer hit one over the monster (438 feet). It was the 300th home run of his career and his 126th with the Jays.Overall, we had just 7 hits. Three were home runs. We also drew 6 walks. Springer, Schneider, and Giménez had six of the hits. Luke had the other hit.Switching to pitching, this game will not be used by Dylan Cease if he ends up in arbitration at some point. He was not sharp. But he had 5 scoreless innings, with 4 hits, 4 walks and 7 strikeouts. He wasn’t helped by a plate umpire who had a very interesting view of the strike zone. In the first inning, with two on, Cease got Jarren Duran to hit a soft popup just beyond the mound, but Dylan tripped when he was running over the mound to get the ball, and, well, didn’t make the catch. But he got out of the inning on the next batter. As for the bullpen, most did the job. Jeff Hoffman had a great sixth inning with no baserunners and one strikeout. Tyler Rogers gave up one hit in his inning but allowed no runs. Tommy Nance made us nervous: he gave up a home run, another hit, and a walk while recording only two outs.Finally, Louis Varland earned a four-out save, his 13th of the season. He gave up a hit and a walk in the ninth, but had three strikeouts.In addition to his day at the plate, Myles Straw made two very good plays in center field. Lukes also had a nice catch in right field on a ball he almost overran. Jays of the Day: Cease (0.29 WPA), Schneider (0.15), and Giménez (0.12). Let’s give an honourable mention to Straw and Varland.No one had the ‘Other Award’.And they had a lot of Scottish soccer fans in the wooden seats of Fenway:Tomorrow we have Max Scherzer (1-4, 10.23) starting for the Jays. Jake Bennett (1-2, 5.28). If you are going to the game, and sitting at the top of the Green Monster or in any of the outfield seats, bring a glove.

In a lot of sports, the best players can impose their will on the game and, well, will their team to victory. But that’s not the case in baseball. Today was a clear example that baseball stars can only do so much, as Bobby Witt Jr. had three hits, a walk, and a stolen base—but his Kansas City Royals still lost 6-4 to the Washington Nationals.One such hit happened in the fifth inning, a rare (for Kansas City) two-out base hit on a really nice opposite field line drive single to score Tyler Tolbert. Cutting the lead in half, it was a needed bit of offense, as old friend Foster Griffin had held the Royals scoreless for most of the game. An opposite-field RBI single from Bobby Witt Jr. cuts the deficit in half. pic.twitter.com/Q89VUUrh8Y— Royals.TV (@kcroyalstv) June 17, 2026The Royals scored again two innings later to tie the game at three with Isaac Collins swatting another crucial two-out single to left field. It was a nice job coming back, tied together with a nice start by the ever-reliable Michael Wacha. While Wacha did give up seven hits in his six innings, he only walked one and avoided giving up any home runs.Ah, but then the Royals bullpen entered the game, and that home run came. Against Daniel Lynch IV, Curtis Mead smacked his 11th home run of the year on a really terrible middle-middle slider. With two men on base, it was a three-run blast that put the Nationals firmly ahead.To be fair to the Royals, they almost had something going in the ninth inning. Lane Thomas led off with a solo home run, and Witt worked his walk. But Jac Caglianone capped off a 0-4 day with a ground ball double play ball. Collins then struck out swinging, and that was that.Both teams left a decent chunk of batters on base (the Nationals eight, the Royals nine), and both teams had 10 hits and four walks. However, the Nationals had four extra base hits—including a pair of triples and a home run—while the Royals only had two. That’s really becoming the story of the last bit of the season: Kansas City now ranks 26th in total home runs hit, and this despite bringing in the fences at home. The Royals have won 29 of their 74 games, and are on pace for 99 losses. Things would be dire except they apparently are not and everyone’s doing a great job. So it goes.

When Tyler Bindon came in off the bench for New Zealand in its World Cup opener against Iran, he made a bit of history with his mom.Jenny Bindon and Tyler are the first mother and son to play in the World Cup.Jenny, a goalkeeper for New Zealand from 2004-14, played in the Women's World Cup in 2007 and 2011, as well as the Olympic Games in 2008 and 2012.Tyler, 21, is a center back who plays in the Premier League for Nottingham Forest. He was a late substitute on Monday night when New Zealand played to a 2-2 draw with Iran. His parents cheered him from the stands in Inglewood, California.Both of Tyler's parents are athletes. His father, Grant, was a captain of New Zealand's volleyball team. When Tyler was 12, the Bindon family moved to California because Jenny was named an assistant coach of UCLA's women's team. Tyler was a product of the Los Angeles FC academy system. “I find watching him play even more challenging that playing myself,” Jenny Bindon posted on social media last year. “I get more nervous, but he is an absolute joy — an amazing human being.”The All Whites face Egypt on Sunday in Vancouver, British Columbia. Egypt played to a 1-1 draw with Belgium in its opener on Monday. There have been more than two dozen fathers and sons who have played in the World Cup. Among them are Claudio Reyna and his son, Gio, who scored for the United States in its win over Paraguay on Friday. Norway's Erling Haaland is the son of Alf-Inge Haaland, who played in the 1994 World Cup.___AP World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/fifa-world-cup

Jun. 16—The important pieces of Gonzaga's nonconference schedule are still coming together five months before the start of the 2026-27 season.The Zags will travel to play Creighton at CHI Health Center in Omaha on Dec. 12, according to a report on Tuesday from CBS Sports' Jon Rothstein.It's the second game of a two-year, home-and-home series between the programs who played last season at McCarthey Athletic Center, where Gonzaga took control in the second half to beat the Bluejays in dominating fashion, 90-63.Graham Ike led all scorers in last year's meeting with 20 points, making all four of his shots from the 3-point line while finishing 8 of 10 from the field and hauling down 10 rebounds.Gonzaga's next two leading scorers from that game, Braden Huff (14 points) and Mario Saint-Supery (13), will also be involved in December's matchup at the 19,000 -seat venue located roughly 1 mile from Creighton's campus in downtown Omaha.Huff and Creighton forward Jackson McAndrew are the only starters from last year's game back at their respective schools this season. Saint-Supery and freshman Davis Fogle both came off the bench for Gonzaga and three returning Creighton players — Jasen Green Austin Swartz and Isaac Traudt — all saw time for the Bluejays.Creighton made a number of offseason changes, but none bigger than the head coaching position, where top assistant Alan Huss replaces Greg McDermott, who stepped down after 16 seasons and 10 NCAA Tournament appearances with the Bluejays.A former Creighton center who played from 1997-2001, Huss was an assistant at the school from 2017-23 before leaving to take the head coaching job at High Point, where he made the 2025 NCAA Tournament. Huss returned to Creighton's coaching staff last season — a move that many speculated was tied to McDermott's impending retirement.The Bluejays added four key transfers that could be part of the team's starting lineup or main rotation in Huss' first season, including San Diego State's BJ Davis (10.8 points per game), South Florida's Wes Enis (16.4 ppg) and Providence's Oswin Erhunmwunse (6.9 ppg, 8.3 rpg).Creighton hasn't appeared in way-too-early preseason top 25 polls but did check in at No. 40 in Rothstein's offseason top 45 rankings.Gonzaga is 5-5 all-time against Creighton, but Mark Few's teams have won each of the last four meetings, pulling away for double-digit victories in each of those games.

Jun. 16—Two decades after coaching the best stretch of big school boys basketball in state history, Don Van Lierop had an apt way to summarize the experience."I knew that was the nicest car I was ever going to drive," the former Ferris coach said.Van Lierop's 2006-07 and 2007-08 teams finished with 29-0 records and 4A state championships. The teams are being inducted in the Hooptown Hall of Fame 2026 class during a ceremony June 24.Shadle Park gave Ferris arguably its stiffest tests during that two-year stretch. In fact, the Highlanders put the Saxons' 2007-08 streak in jeopardy in the Eastern Regional championship (now known as District 6) when they had a nine-point lead — only to watch Ferris rally and win in overtime.The Saxons went on to state to handle their final four opponents by a 20-point average margin."I could see that standing for generations to come," retired Shadle Park coach Tim Gaebe said. "(To go undefeated in back-to-back seasons), that's an amazing feat."Shawn Stockton (point guard), Jared Karstetter (forward), DeAngelo Casto (post), Erick Cheadle (guard) and Jeff Minnerly (guard) started as juniors and did the same as seniors.Beau Brett was the Saxons' sixth man on both teams. Other key contributors off the bench were Tyler Lynn, Andre Jennings, Evan Ewing, Russ Hart and Jason Bates.Nine players and three coaches are planning to attend the June 24 Hooptown ceremony.The Saxons' starting lineup was ridiculously gifted. They had unmatched horsepower with turn-on-a-dime agility.Casto, a 6-foot-8 post, went on to Washington State where he played for three years before leaving after his junior season to play professionally. The 6-5 Karstetter also headed to Pullman and was a four-year starter at wide receiver. Stockton, nephew of NBA Hall of Famer John Stockton, took the Stockton point guard DNA to Montana. Cheadle, the Greater Spokane League Most Valuable Player at linebacker, headed to Western Washington where the school dropped football shortly after his arrival. And Minnerly, a two-year starter at quarterback for Ferris, stayed close to home at Eastern Washington and made an impact at safety.Brett headed off to Southern Cal to play baseball. He spent two seasons in the minor leagues after being drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers.Van Lierop recalled a 2006-07 preseason meeting at Brett's home. He talked about goals. The players wrote them on a basketball and handed it to Van Lierop.At the time, the goals seemed outlandish: They wanted to go undefeated and win a state title."I told them that as soon as you lose a game, one of your goals is gone," Van Lierop said. "I told them that if that's what they want I'm going to hold them to it."Van Lierop kept the basketball nearby during the season — a frequent reminder of what the Saxons were chasing.The first serious brush with possible defeat came after a record-setting 100-79 win over defending state champ Franklin in the state semifinals. Ferris met Kentridge in the finale. The Saxons prevailed in double overtime, 68-61."That was tense," Van Lierop said.During both seasons, the Saxons were a balanced offensive team. That was evident in their mindset — they were unselfish and solely focused on winning."Getting to win state championships with people you consider your best friends and you're still friends today is pretty cool," Stockton said.Ferris had one player among the GSL's top five in scoring in 2006-07 with Karstetter at 15 points per game. Casto was next at 14.8.Karstetter led again the following season, ranked seventh at 14.3. Casto and Minnerly ranked 17th and 18th, respectively, at 11.5 and 11.2.All the starters took their turns leading in scoring from game to game.When a deep run in football ended in the state semifinals in 2007, Van Lierop knew that four of his football-playing starters would be worn out to start the season shortly thereafter.Minnerly put that concern to rest quickly when he went off for 29 points in a season-opening win.That was one of several highlights Van Lierop pointed out from the special run. He recalls when Federal Way decided to double team Casto inside in the 2007-08 state title game. Cheadle made 5 of 5 from 3-point range, including a shot from halfcourt going into halftime. The Saxons won going away 68-44.Casto set a state tournament record that season, and it still stands. He blocked 25 shots in four games.Van Lierop enjoyed watching opposing teams try to defend the Saxons."We didn't have to have one guy carry the freight," Van Lierop said. "I wondered many times going into games whose night it was going to be. They were all capable."The Saxons' defensive strategy both seasons was to use a matchup zone and pressure guards outside. If opponents got loose inside the perimeter, they were met by Casto, who Van Lierop called the team's goalie.Stockton and Karstetter were both three-year starters. Casto, who transferred from Freeman as a sophomore, would have been a three-year starter but had to play on the junior varsity initially because of state transfer rules.Karstetter said Stockton was Van Lierop's favorite. They often teased Stockton, calling him Van Lierop's fourth son or the "Golden Child."Stockton may not have made a more critical basket than he did in the overtime win over Shadle Park, preserving the Saxons' first undefeated season. He drove coast to coast, making a layup as time expired.Many of the Saxons stay in touch today. Most have lost contact with Casto, who spent a decade playing professionally overseas before settling in Vietnam where he puts on camps. Stockton spent 30 minutes recently messaging back and forth with him.Casto overcame several life challenges growing up."He told me he's about to open his own gym and rec center there," Stockton said. "It sounds like he's doing pretty good."Karstetter, Stockton, Cheadle and Brett all live in Spokane and Minnerly lives in Madison, Wisconsin.Stockton and Karstetter have known each other the longest, having gone to preschool together. They were in each other's weddings and married best friends who played volleyball at Montana.Cheadle and Stockton play Hoopfest every year."The core group has stayed fairly intact," Stockton said.The starters ranged in height from 6-1 to 6-8. The Saxons looked like college athletes."I give a lot of credit to a weight coach who came in and had college and professional experience," Stockton said. "He helped us. It gave us some size and girth and that helped during our run."Teammates spoke about an intrinsic bond that united them."The things that I took from everything we did was the camaraderie and the teamwork that it took to do it," Stockton said. "And the competitiveness never leaves you. Some of our practices were even more competitive than some of the games."Stockton said he and his teammates didn't understand the significance of what they were accomplishing in the middle of it."You're obviously high school kids and don't really see the big picture at that point," he said. "Being dumb teenagers, we really didn't feel the pressure. The parents felt more pressure than the kids. I'm sure sitting in the stands was worse than playing in the games."After going undefeated the first season, the Saxons wanted to prove it wasn't a fluke. So duplicating the outcome was the only statement needed.Stockton and Karstetter have high praise for Van Lierop."There was not a more prepared person," Stockton said. "We had binders full of out-of-bounds plays, sideline plays. He was as prepared as you could be for a high school coach."Said Karstetter: "I can think back to a couple times where we had to make in-game adjustments. We were lucky to have somebody that was as dedicated as he was as a high school coach."Karstetter remembers less about the games and more about off-court interactions."I think the things you remember the most as you get a little bit older are kind of the between game moments," Karstetter said. "You remember some stuff from games, but the bus rides after you win state or the practices that were kind of brutal. It was such a unique time. They're still my closest buddies."High school is some of the best sports memories. It's not really a job yet as it gets to be as you get further down the track."Van Lierop, 62, retired from coaching in 2016 and just completed his final year teaching.He praised his players' athletic abilities. But he appreciates much more."They had great senses of humor, very witty. They were smart. They were willing to sacrifice," he said. "I looked forward to seeing them every single day. We knew everybody expected us to win ... We weren't tight. They had an inner confidence. They were great guys and they had great families. It was a privilege to coach them."A credit to the Saxons' depth is some of the reserves could have started for other teams.Van Lierop is looking forward to reuniting with his former players and assistants during the ceremony."Think of all the people (in the Hall of Fame). Mark Few, John Stockton, Dan Fitzgerald, others," Van Lierop said. "Just to be recognized with them ... it's quite an honor."Karstetter agrees."It's fun to have other people recognize our accomplishment," Karstetter said. "It'll be fun to reconnect — getting back together and telling stories."

The scoreline told one story, but Aymen Hussein has another to tell.He was on the losing side as Iraq suffered a 4-1 defeat by Norway in their World Cup opener, yet the prolific striker made his mark on football's biggest stage. Hussein's superb header in the 39th minute cancelled out Erling Haaland's opener and gave the Iraq supporters a moment to cherish on the country's return to the tournament after 40 years. Though it ultimately proved only a consolation - and was later offset by his own goal - it was still just Iraq's second-ever World Cup finals goal."He's that type of player who is very difficult to control in the box and I'm very happy and proud of him," said Iraq head coach Graham Arnold. And yet Hussein's journey to the World Cup is one that could easily have taken a different turn. 'This is what the World Cup brings'Aymen Hussein made his international debut for Iraq in 2015 [Reuters]Hussein grew up in an Iraq where football offered moments of unity amid turmoil.The national team's 2007 Asian Cup triumph against the odds sparked celebrations across the country.The Iraqi players were semi-professionals who were forced to prepare for the tournament in Jordan because of a security crisis at home that was claiming tens of thousands of lives every year. Their shock semi-final victory over South Korea was marred by a suicide-bomb attack on celebrating supporters in Baghdad which killed dozens.The young Hussein also endured personal tragedy. He was 12 years old, in 2008, when his father - a soldier in the Iraqi army - was shot dead by al-Qaeda while out buying materials for the construction of their home.Further tragedy struck a few years later when his older brother was kidnapped during a period of unrest and has not been seen since."I decided to quit playing football to take care of my family, but my mother refused," Hussein said in an interview.Instead, she urged Hussein to pursue his dream - one that has seen him guide Iraq to their first World Cup since 1986. Though the path to it has been anything but smooth for the 30-year-old.Hussein's build-up to the World Cup was disrupted when he was detained and questioned for about seven hours at Chicago's O'Hare airport upon arriving in the United States earlier this month. He was eventually allowed in - unlike Iraq's team photographer Talal Salah.When Hussein rose to head past Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland, it was a proud moment.Hussein keeps goals flowing for IraqHussein's impact against Norway will not have come as a surprise for those who have followed his rise closely. Since 2023, he has been a consistent performer for the Lions of Mesopotamia with his aerial dominance and sharp shooting inside the box.He was Iraq's standout performer during their historic World Cup qualification campaign, scoring 12 goals - more than double that of any team-mate - as they reached the tournament via the inter-confederation play-offs. It was Hussein who delivered when it mattered most in the qualifiers, striking the winner in a 2-1 victory over Bolivia in Guadalupe in March which sealed their World Cup berth. However, there were questions over his form heading into the World Cup after a season where he struggled for minutes at his club Al-Karma. He has answered the doubters with a resilient display against one of the most exciting teams in the tournament, taking his chance in the midst of adversity. "He has had quite a few injuries during the season and for him to get through 90 minutes with that energy and scoring a goal was fantastic," Arnold said. If Hussein can maintain that level, Iraq may yet believe they can progress from a challenging Group I that also includes 2022 runners-up France and Senegal.World Cup fixtures and group standingsHow to watch the World Cup on the BBCEverything you need to know about the World Cup

HOUSTON (AP) — The Detroit Tigers scratched Colt Keith from the lineup with a sore right wrist Tuesday night against the Houston Astros.The 24-year-old Keith hit three home runs in a 9-3 win over the Astros on Monday night. The only player younger than Keith to launch three home runs in a game for the franchise was Hall of Fame outfielder Al Kaline, who was 20 when he did it on April 17, 1955.Keith entered that game with only one homer. He is hitting .267 with four homers and 16 RBIs this season.___AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

Why does Luca Zidane play for Algeria? Son of French great Zinedine Zidane is starting goalie for African side originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.While many remember Zinedine Zidane as one of France's most notable players, his son, Luca, is the goalkeeper for Algeria at the 2026 World Cup.Many viewers were quick to pick up on the Zidane name on the back of the goalkeeper's kit, and the broadcast has brought up the former Real Madrid manager's fatherhood to the Algerian goalie. How come Luca is able to play for Algeria despite his father playing for France's national team for his whole career?Here's why Zinedine Zidane's son is guarding the net for Algeria at the 2026 World Cup.2026 WORLD CUP HQ:Latest World Cup news | Full World Cup schedule | Buy World Cup ticketsWhy does Luca Zidane play for Algeria?Zidane plays for Algeria due to his father's parents being born in Algeria. The goalkeeper was born in France and lived in Spain for the majority of his life, due to his father's career at Real Madrid beginning in 2001 and his position as Real Madrid's manager during the 2010s.“We’ve lived in an Algerian culture since we were small,” Zidane said, according to The Athletic. “It’s an honor to play for Algeria. The final decision was mine, but I spoke with my family, my parents, my brothers, my grandfather. My father was happy, he knew it was something I wanted to do. To be able to play in a World Cup is a dream for any kid.”Zidane, who is 28 years old, made his international debut for Algeria in October. A few months later, he suited up for the Africa Cup of Nations, where Algeria lost in the quarter-finals against Nigeria on January 10.MORE WORLD CUP NEWS:Ranking World Cup groups from hardest to easiest10 World Cup teams with best chance to winRanking 7 best matches of the World CupWhy does Luca Zidane wear a face maskZidane wears a face mask after picking up an injury while playing for Granada in late April. While playing for Spanish club Granada back in late April, he collided with Thalys, a player on Almeria.Zidane came away from the encounter with a fractured jaw, chin, and a severe concussion that put him in jeopardy of missing the 2026 World Cup. However, he has since recovered and made Algeria's starting lineup for their opening match against Argentina.Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of French legend Zinedine, has made his World Cup debut 🇩🇿A fractured jaw in April necessitated the mask he's wearing on the pitch, but failed to keep him out of the tournament 👏 pic.twitter.com/Y6jpBnUuXM— Men in Blazers (@MenInBlazers) June 17, 2026While he did represent France on their U17 team, Zidane ultimately chose to represent Algeria in 2025.Who is Zinedine Zidane?Luca's father, Zinedine, was a very well-known soccer player who was on the "Galacticos" Real Madrid squad, a team of players built by president Florentino Perez who all had expensive price tags and were generally renowned for their attacking prowess.In 2001, Zidane was sold to Real Madrid for €73.5 million ($85,361,430 today), which was the most expensive transfer in soccer history at the time. Zidane's impact in Madrid was immediate, and he even scored the winning goal, a stunning volley goal just inside the box, at the 2001-02 Champions League Final.Here is a video of that goal:While Zidane was a phenomenal player, his career is often highlighted by a career low point. During the 2006 World Cup Final against Italy, his last soccer game as a professional player, Zidane made worldwide headlines for headbutting Italy defender Marco Materazzi. He earned a red card for the notorious deed, and his career was ended with a famous walk past the golden World Cup trophy that would go untouched by French players that year.Here is a look at the play that sealed his career:Which club does Luca Zidane play for?Regarding soccer on the club side of the sport, Zidane plays for Granada in La Liga. He joined the Spanish side in July 2024, according to FotMob, and has bounced around various clubs in Spain.In July 2016, he began his La Liga career in Real Madrid's youth system and Real Madrid Castilla, also known as Real Madrid B. He then went on loan to Racing Santander in July 2019 before moving to Rayo Vallecano in October 2020, where he played for two years.He was briefly a free agent for a couple of months before signing with Eibar in September 2022 on a free transfer. Two years later, he made his way to Granada, where he plays today.How old is Luca ZidaneZidane turned 28 years old roughly a month before stepping onto the pitch for the first time at the 2026 World Cup. He was born on May 13, 1998, in Aix-en-Provence, France.He made his debut with Real Madrid at the end of the 2017-18 season.

Just days from now, the basketball world could find out which NBA team LeBron James will play for next season, or if he will call it a career after 23 seasons. Right now, the most likely outcome seems to be a new contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, but one can never be sure until an official announcement is made, and a return to the Cleveland Cavaliers cannot be ruled out.But Brian Windhorst, a reporter who has been covering James since he was in high school, said on ESPN Cleveland that he believes that the superstar is currently negotiating a new deal with the Lakers.“I think LeBron’s intention is to play and I think the focus right now is making a deal with the Lakers,” Windhorst said. “Right now, he’s allowed to negotiate with the Lakers and I believe they are negotiating, I believe they’re going back and forth. Free agency begins in 14 days and in the next 14 days, I think he’s gonna try to make a deal with the Lakers. The amount of the deal may depend on what else the Lakers are able to do in free agency and if in 14 days he is at an impasse with the Lakers and there is no deal there then I think other teams like the Cavs should stand to attention. But the league, I think, generally believes that the two sides are gonna come together.”NBA teams can negotiate new contracts with players currently on their roster who are about to become free agents. James made $52.6 million on his contract this season, and he will almost certainly have to take some sort of a pay cut for next season.Despite turning 41 years of age in December, he averaged 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists a game during the regular season. In the playoffs, with Luka Doncic unable to play due to a hamstring strain, he put up 23.2 points, 6.7 boards and 7.3 assists a game. Still, L.A. was swept in the second round by the Oklahoma City Thunder.For L.A. to take the next step and become a championship contender, it needs more depth, athleticism, defense and 3-point shooting. Adding those attributes to its roster will be next to impossible unless James' next contract is for a substantially lower amount of money than his current one.This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Brian Windhorst believes LeBron James, Lakers are negotiating contract