Isaiah Thomas believes Chris Paul staying could've won the title for the Spurs originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The 2025-26 season had some amazing stories, but one of the best was the San Antonio Spurs' sudden rise to become a championship contender. With Victor Wembanyama at the forefront, the Spurs went from missing the Playoffs the previous year to reaching the NBA Finals.It was a superb season for the Spurs, but they ended up disappointed because they lost in the NBA Finals to the New York Knicks. During that NBA Finals series, it seemed the Spurs lacked veteran leadership, which they had the season before with Chris Paul.Isaiah Thomas argues that Chris Paul could've won the title with the SpursDuring the 2024-25 season, it looked like the Spurs were on the rise. They had a promising first half of the season, but it was all ruined when Wembanyama suffered the blood clots that forced him to sit out the rest of the season.In that first half, it was clear that the Spurs had a bright future with Wembanyama and Stephon Castle leading the way. They also had a tremendous leader in the locker room with Paul.MORE: Carmelo Anthony wants Victor Wembanyama to be more aggressiveWhile Paul never won a championship in his career, he was a valuable leader. In the locker room, everyone would respect Paul because of his success and his natural leadership ability.That is why former NBA All-Star Isaiah Thomas thinks CP3 would have been a great fit for the 2025-26 Spurs. Unfortunately, he went back to the Los Angeles Clippers for one final NBA season, but that also ended abruptly when the Clippers let him go, and he promptly retired."I believe if they had Chris Paul on this roster, they would’ve won the Finals. Not even saying Chris Paul to get out there and play, he doesn't even have to get valuable minutes. His experience and who he is, his Hall of Fame career, would’ve helped De’Aaron Fox, Castle, Harper," Thomas said on the Point Game podcast.Thomas brings up a great point because this team lacked the leaders outside of the youngsters, De'Aaron Fox, and Harrison Barnes. Even Fox needed a leader by his side, which Paul could have done. Unfortunately, Paul went back for one final year with his beloved Clippers. It did not end well for him, especially with how much Paul's leadership could have helped the Spurs get the title over the line.More NBA news:One of the Knicks' guards had something to say about the Spurs walking off in Game 5How De'Aaron Fox's problematic NBA Finals performance could be an issue for the SpursJared McCain has fun with people mistaking him for Dylan HarperJared McCain finds humor in his situation with Victor WembanyamaKlay Thompson is seen as an option for the San Antonio Spurs

Atlanta bolsters wing depth, acquires Aaron Wiggins from Oklahoma City originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Atlanta Hawks continued an aggressive offseason makeover Sunday, finalizing a trade to acquire guard Aaron Wiggins from the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for two future second-round draft picks. Atlanta will send its 2030 second-round pick and the least favorable of the Hawks’ or Lakers’ 2032 second-round selections to Oklahoma City. Wiggins arrives in Atlanta after spending five seasons with the Thunder, where he developed into one of the league’s more reliable role players despite often competing for minutes on one of the NBA’s deepest rosters. The 27-year-old wing provides the Hawks with valuable depth, perimeter defense, and three-point shooting.During the 2025-26 season, Wiggins averaged 10.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists while shooting efficiently from the field and continuing to establish himself as a versatile two-way contributor. Throughout his NBA career, he has shot approximately 38% from three-point range, making him an ideal fit alongside Atlanta’s playmakers and scoring options. Hawks land versatile guardThe move appears to be another step in Atlanta’s effort to strengthen its wing rotation while maintaining financial flexibility. Wiggins signed a five-year, $45 million extension with Oklahoma City before the 2024-25 season, and the contract remains team-friendly, with just over $17 million owed over the next two guaranteed years. For Oklahoma City, the trade is largely about asset management. The reigning Western Conference powerhouse has faced a roster crunch due to its abundance of young talent and draft capital. ESPN recently identified Wiggins as one of the most likely Thunder players to be moved as the organization works to balance playing time and future flexibility. Atlanta, meanwhile, gains a proven rotation player entering his prime. Wiggins has shown the ability to defend multiple positions, knock down open shots, and contribute without needing high usage. With the Hawks looking to return to playoff contention, his skill set fills an important need.The trade may not generate the headlines of a superstar acquisition, but it could prove to be one of the more impactful under-the-radar moves of the offseason for Atlanta.More NBA news:The one reason Bucks are turning down every Giannis Antetokounmpo offerDe’Aaron Fox’s Spurs future revealed after NBA Finals disaster and it’s hardly a surpriseGilbert Arenas wants Jalen Brunson statue after the Knicks’ Spurs triumph — his reason says it allShaquille O'Neal identifies what Victor Wembanyama needs to do after Spurs' Finals collapseSpurs finally find Victor Wembanyama's perfect championship partner

Cincinnati Bengals kicker Evan McPherson (2) celebrates with Cincinnati Bengals punter Kevin Huber (10) after hitting the game winning field goal in overtime of the AFC championship NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 30, 2022, at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. Cincinnati Bengals defeated Kansas City Chiefs 27-24. Cincinnati Bengals At Kansas City Chiefs Jan 30 Afc Championship 105 Indiana won the College Football Playoff National Championship. The New York Knicks won the NBA Finals. In a year where anything can happen, maybe this is the year the Cincinnati Bengals win their first Super Bowl. After all, they’ve been going all in this offseason to put themselves in Super Bowl contention this season.CBS Sports’ Bryan DeArdo recently ranked 16 teams and how likely they are to end their Super Bowl drought this season. DeArdo has the Bengals at No. 2 behind the Buffalo Bills. Both the Bengals and Bills have never won the Super Bowl in their respective franchise histories. There’s a bond between the two fan bases over their respective postseason heartbreaks and Damar Hamlin overcoming cardiac arrest in January of 2023.View this post on InstagramThere are both teams that haven’t won Super Bowls and teams that have won the Super Bowl on this list. The Bengals rank ahead of the Chicago Bears, Washington Commanders, Dallas Cowboys, Las Vegas Raiders, New York Jets, and Miami Dolphins. It’s worth noting that all of the teams on this list that have won Super Bowls only have droughts that go back to 1995. This week saw mandatory minicamp conclude the OTA season for the Bengals before training camp starts July 29th. All seven of the Bengals’ draft picks have been signed, and there is hope that cornerback DJ Turner and the Bengals can come to an agreement on a potentially high-impact contract extension.If anything, the Bengals are singularly focused on winning without distractions that have been prevalent in the last three ramp-ups to the season.Bengals ReactsIn this week’s Bengals Reacts survey, 38% of voters said they believe Amarius Mims is the likeliest player to be a first-time Pro Bowler this season, while 37% went with DJ Turner.This survey was brought to you by FanDuel Sportsbook.

Mohamed Salah scored a goal and assisted another as Egypt defeated New Zealand 3-1 to claim their first-ever World Cup win on Sunday.New Zealand thought they would be the ones celebrating a maiden victory at the tournament as Finn Surman gave them the lead in the 15th minute.But Mustafa Zico levelled for Egypt in the 58th and team star Salah was on target in the 67th to turn the game around.He played a lovely one-two with Zico before powering a finish past goalkeeper Max Crocombe.Substitute Trezeguet sealed the historic victory in the 82nd with a diving header to finish off Salah's corner.Egypt now top the Group G standings with four points. Iran and Belgium played out a goalless draw earlier and are two points bck in second and third respectively. New Zealand are last with one point.

Impatient Marlins welcome back Griffin Conine, DFA disappointing Christopher Morel originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Miami Marlins have been waiting. The impatient franchise marked its time until Griffin Conine healed enough to come off the 60-day injured list. The outfielder injured his hamstring attempting to make a defensive play against the Cincinnati Reds on April 9. Meanwhile, infielder Christopher Morel tested the front office's patience a bit too long. An offseason free-agent acquisition, Morel was expected to provide power to the Marlins' lineup, signing a one-year, $2 million deal.He batted .162 and failed to generate a home run for 22 games.With Conine healthy and ready to be activated, the Marlins designated Morel for assignment before Sunday's 2-1 win over the San Francisco Giants at loanDepot park.Slugger Liam Hicks (back) was also placed on IL.Marlins' Griffin Conine replaces Christopher MorelConine batted second and went 0-for-4 with one strikeout. Kyle Stowers scored both runs, including a second-inning home run off underrated starting pitcher Logan Webb (4-5), who completed an 8-inning outing after yielding two earned runs on five hits.The Marlins quit waiting for Morel to produce. The five-year big leaguer had remained on the bench since June 10, an 0-for-4 performance against the Arizona Diamondbacks.Morel opened the regular season on the IL after sustaining an oblique injury in late March. Activated on April 27, Morel failed to flash the early-career power he displayed with the Chicago Cubs, collecting 60 combined homers from 2022-24."Coming into the season, we had the high hopes that Christopher could turn around the talent ability that he has and kind of refine the '22, '23 version, and it just didn't happen," Marlins manager Clayton McCullough said, as reported by ESPN. "The injury Opening Day set him back and the opportunities he had here became more limited over the last week to 10 days."Hicks, the Marlins' leader in home runs (13) and RBI (53), was a late scratch Sunday.Can Conine fill the voids?More MLB news:'Plunking king:' White Sox's Sam Antonacci taking beating at plateMets' Freddy Peralta delivers triple double as Phillies' Kyle Schwarber sets unique home run recordMarlins' Max Meyer discovers winning breaking-ball formula, remains unbeatenIntense Tarik Skubal jaws at White Sox as Tigers continue pressing health concerns

June 18, 2026; Guadalajara, Mexico; South Korea's Paik Seung-ho is shown a yellow card by referee Gustavo Tejera. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Becerril-Reuters via Imagn Images Group play is winding down at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and teams have already booked spots in the Round of 32. Mexico was the first team to clinch a group win, followed by the United States.But with 30 other teams vying for spots in the knockout round, there are a lot of scenarios unfolding at the World Cup.And some involve the “team conduct score.”As the group stage draws to a close, today we are diving into the team conduct score: What it is, how it is calculated, what the current team conduct score standings are, and why those standings might matter at the World Cup.What is the team conduct score?The team conduct score is a calculation of the infractions a team has earned in a given tournament, in this case the World Cup. Specifically, it is a tally of the yellow and red cards each team has been given, for both players and team officials.How is the team conduct score calculated?Here is how the team conduct score is calculated.Yellow cards: -1 pointIndirect red card (resulting from a second yellow card): -3 pointsStraight red card: -4 pointsYellow card plus straight card: -5 pointsAs each team accumulates cards, the running total changes.Why might the team conduct score matter?Why might a team’s team conduct score matter at the World Cup?Because it can be used to break ties at the end of group play, to see how teams finish in a given group and/or advance to the knockout stage. To break ties within a group at the end of the group stage, a three-step process will be followed to determine tiebreakers.In the first step, the greatest number of points in the group matches between the tied teams will be applied. Then, the superior goal difference from the group matches between the tied teams will be applied, and finally, the greatest number of goals scored in all group matches between the tied teams will be applied.If that cannot determine a tiebreaker, then the teams that are still equal will advance to step two. In this stage, the first step is the goal difference in all group matches, then the greatest number of goals in all group matches, and finally the highest team conduct score (relating to yellow and red cards) will be applied.So while the team conduct score is one of the final tiebreakers, it could come into play here soon at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. If the team conduct score does not break the tie, then the teams still equal on points will be ranked according to the most recent FIFA World Rankings.Then there are the teams looking to advance to the knockout round as a third-place team in a group. With the field expanding to 48 teams, the top two teams in each group advance to the Round of 32, and then the eight best third-place teams fill out the final eight spots. When it comes to those standings, here is how FIFA will stack the third-place teams for potential tiebreakers:First, the greatest number of points in all group matchesSecond, the goal difference from all group matchesThird, the number of goals scored in all group matchesFourth, a team’s conduct score.If there are still ties after those four steps are applied, the teams still equal on points will be ranked according to the most recent FIFA World Rankings.What are the current team conduct scores at the World Cup?Here is the current team conduct score for each team at the FIFA World Cup.Note: This table was last updated following Egypt-New Zealand on Sunday, June 21TeamTeam Conduct ScoreGermany0Japan0Uruguay0Norway0France0Senegal0Argentina0Jordan0Algeria0England0Croatia0Czechia-1Morocco-1Tunisia-1Spain-1Iraq-1Austria-1Colombia-1DR Congo-1Uzbekistan-1Ghana-1Iran-2New Zealand-2Switzerland-2Ecuador-2Panama-2Saudi Arabia-3Cabo Verde-3South Korea-3Sweden-3Canada-3Brazil -3Türkiye-3Egypt-3Ivory Coast-3Netherlands-3Portugal-3Scotland-4Haiti-4United States-4Australia-4Curaçao-5Mexico-5Belgium-7Bosnia and Herzegovina-9Qatar-11Paraguay-11South Africa-12

Thousands of soccer fans from Iraq and France filled Philadelphia's streets and landmarks Sunday ahead of their teams' World Cup matchup, transforming Center City and the Philadelphia Museum of Art into a sea of flags, chants and national pride.The celebrations came one day before Iraq and France are set to face off Monday evening at Philadelphia Stadium.For Iraqi supporters, the tournament marks a historic return to the world's biggest soccer stage after a four-decade absence."Iraq hasn't been qualified for the World Cup for the past 40 years so this is a huge thing for them and for us," said Abdullah Ali, who traveled from Houston.Iraqi fans gathered near City Hall before marching through Center City to the Rocky statue and the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps. Along the way, supporters stopped outside the hotel where France's national team, known as Les Bleus, is staying.Yousif Hussein, who traveled from Memphis, Tennessee, said attending the World Cup and supporting his home country was a dream come true."I've been here since 2012, but it's not every day I get to support my home country and be like hey we're actually going to the World Cup!" Hussein said.The crowd carried Iraqi flags, beat drums and chanted as they made their way through the city.French supporters also turned out in large numbers. Many gathered at Lion Sports Bar in Chinatown before making their way to the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps later in the evening."We can win, we will win. We want to go to the final," said Benjamin Vermeyl, a France supporter.French fans expressed confidence heading into Monday's match, with some already predicting a lopsided victory."I think four for France, one for Iraq," said Bertrand Vermeyl.Others cautioned against overconfidence."We gotta be confident but not too arrogant. I think it should be a win," one supporter said.Iraqi fans, meanwhile, embraced their underdog status while remaining optimistic about the outcome."Tomorrow I think it's 2-2," one fan predicted."I think Iraq is gonna win 2-0," said Anthony Hermiz of Michigan.By Sunday night, Iraqi fans added their own touch to Philadelphia sports lore, placing a France jersey on the Rocky statue.

Lexi Thompson has withdrawn from the KPMG Women's PGA Championship, the tournament has announced. The popular American player pulled out of the Meijer LPGA Classic in Michigan with hip pain."It's hard to put into words how disappointed I am to have had to withdraw from this week," wrote Thompson on Instagram after withdrawing from the Meijer.Thompson, 31, tied for 12th at last year's KPMG and took a share of ninth in 2024. The semi-retired Thompson has made six starts this season, with her best finish, a share of 12th, coming at the Chevron Championship. Earlier this month, she missed the U.S. Women's Open for the first time since 2007 ending a streak of 19 straight.She was replaced in the KPMG field by Carolina Chacarra.This article originally appeared on Golfweek: Lexi Thompson withdraws from KPMG Women's PGA due to injury

An estimated 180,000 people filled downtown Raleigh for a parade that left a lasting impression on fans and provided a major boost for local businesses, organizers and vendors said.Cleanup crews worked until 9 p.m. after the celebration and were still clearing confetti Sunday morning, underscoring the scale of the event. For many attendees, it was a moment they will not forget, and for business owners, it was an opportunity to capitalize on the surge of visitors."It was a moment in history," the atmosphere reflected as fans gathered along the parade route. Marcus Jenkins, owner of the Spud Kings food truck, had a front-row seat to the festivities while serving customers. He said the experience stood out even amid the weekend's busy schedule."There was a moment I got off the truck and witnessed what happened and it was surreal," Jenkins said.Jenkins had prepared for the weekend by stocking 600 pounds of potatoes ahead of the parade. Already scheduled to attend the Food Truck Rodeo, which was moved to Sunday, he was able to serve at both events, marking his busiest stretch yet."Yeah, the economy has been hard on a lot of people, and I know it's been tough for a lot of people with the gas prices and everything being high. But we try our best to accommodate the common person. So we think that this weekend was a stimulus and a boost. And I like to see more and more people come to the festivities downtown from week to week," Jenkins said. Brick-and-mortar businesses along Fayetteville Street also saw significant foot traffic.Marika Soewandi of Sono Raleigh described the emotional impact of the event. "It was the greatest moment. I cried," Soewandi said. Sono Raleigh set up a "Sip and Stroll" bar and saw crowds pack the area. "We loved it, were filled up right in front of the street, I couldn't even see the concrete over there," Soewandi said.Shop Local Raleigh, which helped organize the parade, said some small businesses reported up to $20,000 in sales before 2 p.m. that day. With turnout reaching roughly 180,000 people, organizers said they now have a clearer understanding of how to manage large-scale events downtown."Now we have a playbook. Now we know we know exactly how many square feet are from point A to point B, how many pieces of metal it takes to secure everything, to barricade things in just for safety purposes, for crowd control. And, you know, I think now that the playbooks in place, let's do it again," said Jennifer Martin of Shop Local Raleigh.SEE ALSO | Images from the Carolina Hurricanes victory celebrationImages from the Carolina Hurricanes victory celebrationThe success of the event has fueled hopes for more celebrations in the future - and perhaps another championship parade sooner rather than later."Hopefully it will not be the last, Go Canes!" Jenkins said.City officials and organizers also highlighted the extensive logistics behind the scenes, including parking, barricades, sanitation and police presence, all of which contributed to the event's execution. With the Food Truck Rodeo continuing Sunday, vendors anticipated another round of strong business, capping what many described as a standout weekend for downtown Raleigh.

Subscribe to The CooligansApple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTubeChristian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to Mauricio Pochettino's challenge to American fans: "Why not us?" With the USMNT already through to the knockout rounds, the guys debate whether the United States can actually win the World Cup and break down what would need to happen for Pochettino's side to make a truly historic run. Has the mentality around American soccer changed forever, or are expectations getting out of control?Next, The Cooligans celebrate one of the stories of the tournament as Curaçao battle to a stunning draw thanks to Eloy Room's unbelievable 15-save performance—the most ever recorded in a 90-minute World Cup match. With Ivory Coast still left to play, Christian and Alexis ask whether the Caribbean nation can complete one of the greatest Cinderella stories in World Cup history and reach the knockout rounds against all odds.To wrap up the show, the guys react to the Netherlands' emphatic 5-1 dismantling of Sweden and debate whether the Dutch have overtaken the rest of the field as World Cup favorites. They also discuss Spain's comfortable win over Saudi Arabia, Germany's dramatic late winner against Ivory Coast, Miguel Almirón's controversial red card and Uruguay's battle with Cape Verde as the group stage drama continues to intensify.Timestamps:(1:30) — Why not us? Can USA win the World Cup?(20:00) - Curacao grab stunning draw: can they make knockout rounds?(29:30) - Netherlands new World Cup favorites?(36:00) - Reacting to other big weekend matchesMauricio Pochettino, Head Coach of the United States, celebrates after the team's victory in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D match between USA and Paraguay at Los Angeles Stadium on June 12, 2026 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Alex Livesey - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out all episodes of The Cooligans the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

Kel'el Ware has become a player that the Los Angeles Lakers are interested in originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Giannis Antetokounmpo sweepstakes continue to rage on with the Miami Heat as the primary suitor. This has led to multi-team trade packages centered on the Heat and the Milwaukee Bucks.One of those packages involves Heat center Kel'el Ware getting traded away from Miami. A potential landing spot for him is the Los Angeles Lakers, which could be a match made in heaven for the young center.Kel'el Ware could be the perfect player for the LakersAcross his two seasons in the NBA playing for the Heat, Ware has shown immense potential. While he and head coach Erik Spoelstra don't see eye to eye often, even Spo would agree that Ware has tremendous potential to become a high-level NBA player.The problem with the Heat is that they also have Bam Adebayo, so playing them together is an option, but it is not the best fit. Spoelstra favors the more proven player, which has led to Ware not being a fixture of the rotation.MORE: The latest trade rumors involve Giannis AntetokounmpoSince Ware does not have an assured future with the Heat, looking elsewhere might be the best option for his future. He has not voiced any desire to leave the Heat, but he has been part of many trade packages to acquire Antetokounmpo.Lakers insider Anthony F. Irwin has reported that there are links between Los Angeles and Ware. Of course, there are still some questions surrounding a potential move, especially with how Ware has looked over the past two years.Sometimes, Ware can have mental lapses, which turned Spoelstra off of him. However, he could thrive with the Lakers, especially with a playmaker like Doncic passing him the ball for open shots or alley-oops.Ware could be the long-term option the Lakers need because he has star potential. Playing alongside Doncic and under head coach JJ Redick could unlock his immense potential more than what Spoelstra and the Heat could do.More NBA news:Kyle Kuzma sends a message to the fans about his contract with the BucksThe reason why the Bucks keep turning down offers for Giannis AntetokounmpoThe Heat are in pole position for getting Giannis AntetokounmpoLuka Doncic is putting pressure on the Lakers' front office to get something doneThe Lakers already have center targets in the free agency market

Lee Selby became Wales' 12th boxing world champion when he beat Evgeny Gradovich for the IBF featherweight title in 2015 [Getty Images]Lee Selby knows the risks, knows the danger.He's already been in the corner for one fight, so knows all too well that bareknuckle boxing is fast becoming as popular as it is brutal.But he also knows his own worth."They offered a great amount of money, which I declined," Selby tells BBC Sport Wales."Then they offered more money, which I declined again, and finally they offered me enough to make me say yes."I'm a prizefighter. I've fought my whole life. The prize is money. If the money's right, I'll fight."It's a similar case for his brother and former British flyweight champion, Andrew Selby, who has himself reached a multi-fight agreement to compete in the sport.How safe is bare-knuckle boxing as it fights for mainstream appeal?Gloves Are Off: The Rise of Bare-Knuckle BoxingSimple maths, in many ways.The sums clearly add up, too, for promoters BKB whose bid to try and take bareknuckle boxing mainstream will have been boosted by securing a four-fight deal for the 39-year-old former IBF featherweight champion, four years after he hung up the gloves.Barry-based Selby is not the first former world title winner to make the same switch. IBF super-middleweight and 2012 Olympic gold medal winner James de Gale has previously fought on a different promotion.In July, former WBC welterweight champ – and former Floyd Mayweather opponent turned Hollywood actor – Victor Oritz will headline a BKB bill in Los Angeles.By then, 39-year-old Selby will know a little bit more about what he has let himself in for with his BKB debut against Italy's Antonio Rizzo scheduled for 26 June in Cardiff.Bareknuckle boxing is on the rise, with a surge in bouts since the first was sanctioned in the US in 2018. Brain injury charity Headway has previously called the sport "irresponsible" and even boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has called the sport "a little bit barbaric for me", but there is an audience for it – and it appears to be growing.And BKB's refusal to take no foran answer from a fighter who defended his IBF title four times before a bloodied defeat by Josh Warrington in 2018, gives a hint to their intention.Indeed, the promotion's chief executive David Tetreault has called Selby's signing "a game-changer" as they look to lean on the credibility of legitimate boxing champions.Something to proveSelby has signed a four-fight deal with BKB, whose bouts take place in a three-sided ring called a Trigon [Getty Images]And yet it still begs the question why Selby would be tempted."It's not all about the money," said the man nicknamed 'Lightning' and who also held British, Commonwealth and European titles. He had combined coaching and punditry since retiring in 2022 on the back of a title-eliminator defeat to Daniel Lemos in Buenos Aires shortly after contentiously losing to would-be champion George Kambosos Jr."There were rumours going around the town (Barry) that I'd spent all my money, but that's not the case – I invested well, I've got properties."I came from nothing – council house family on benefits and food banks – so when I'm offered money to fight, I can't say no. Because fighting's in me."Which gets a little closer to the attraction to look past the controversial status of bareknuckle boxing and accept the challenge.Like many retired boxers, Selby admits to have lost a little "purpose" since stepping out of the ring."I'd be riding the horses, walking the dogs, taking the kids to school – being a normal civilian," he says. "But something was missing."Selby defended his title four times but turned to coaching after stepping out of the ring in 2022 [Rex Features]He dismisses the notion of risks as no greater than normal boxing because of the shorter rounds, taking less punches over a shorter timeframe, and gloves doing more to protect hands than heads.But the smaller ring space is just another factor why there are more fights ended by knockout or technical knockout than standard boxing, not to mention a greater risk of cuts. A concern for some, an appeal to others."It's stripped back, the truest form of fighting," he says. "And I've got something to prove."Put to him that holding a world title suggests he doesn't, he replies: "Yeah, but I had pillows on my hands."He's yet to try and pillow-less punch on an opponent but says pad work suggests his punches are "so much faster, so much cleaner".He's yet, either, to receive a bareknuckle punch and admits his sister worries. His father – who he calls "a boxing purist" – wants nothing to do with the venture. But brother and fellow boxer, 2012 Olympian Andrew Selby, has joined him in making the switch into the three-sided ring known as the Trigon."I've had huge success as an amateur and won the British title in the pros. Now, joining my brother Lee in BKB is a dream," said Andrew."Bare knuckle is the original, no-excuses version of the sport we love. I'm bringing my speed, timing, and heart to the Trigon - and we're both coming for world titles."Lee Selby's only live experience of it to date has been coaching one previous fight but he's been studying and notes that the venue sizes are growing.And just as he knows the risks, Selby is equally clear on his aim."The plan is my debut which I don't want to look past," he says. "But, if I was to look ahead, I'd like another fight and then to fight for the world title, defend it and retire a two-time world champion. "World champion with and without the gloves and the best fighting man from Wales."Olympian Jones using ADHD diagnosis to box clever

Oklahoma City is trying to reduce its massive upcoming tax bill, and Atlanta has become the beneficiary.The Thunder are trading Aaron Wiggins to the Hawks for two second-round picks, a trade first reported by Shams Charania of ESPN. Officially, the trade is Wiggins for the Hawks' 2030 second-round pick and the least favorable of the 2032 Hawks or Lakers pick.For Oklahoma City, this is essentially a salary dump. Wiggins is set to make $9.2 million next season, and that now comes off OKC's books (and creating a roster spot if the Thunder decide to use both first-round picks they control). Most importantly, the trade lowers the team's expected $213 million luxury tax bill down to $152 million. Expect more moves by the Thunder to try to lower that bill even further in the coming weeks.Atlanta picks up a quality wing player, one who averaged 9.4 points a game last season for the Thunder, but his minutes were getting squeezed by the rise of Ajay Mitchell and the arrival of Jared McCain.Wiggins is a testament to the Thunder's player development. They drafted him No. 55 but helped him grow into a quality rotation player, and during the Thunder's championship season, he averaged 12 points per game.This trade will not become official until July 6 (the day the NBA's free agent moratorium is lifted) because of the money involved. The Hawks will absorb Wiggins' salary into an $11 million trade exemption they have, but this will hard-cap them at the first tax apron. Which is not that big a deal because they aren't expected to go near that anyway.

Isaiah Thomas sparked debates online with his big claim on Sunday. The two-time All-Star guard said that the San Antonio Spurs would’ve won the NBA championship if they still had Chris Paul.“The Point God” signed a one-year, $11 million deal with the Spurs in 2024. However, Paul agreed to terms to return to the Los Angeles Clippers the following year for the final season of his career. San Antonio reached the Finals this past season but lost to the New York Knicks in five games.MORE: Victor Wembanyama still holds the future of the NBA in his hands““I believe if they had Chris Paul on this roster, they would’ve won the finals,” Thomas said on the “Point Game Pod.” “His experience and who he is would’ve helped De’Aaron Fox, (Stephon) Castle, (Dylan) Harper.”The 37-year-old received backlash from fans for his take.“Are we sure? Because okc would’ve picked on cp3 on defense,” one fan said.“The thing is if you have Chris Paul on your roster you’re actually guaranteed to not win a ring,” a reaction read.“I don’t think Thomas watched Knicks-Spur games over the years. It didn’t work out; he’s not in a Spurs jersey for a reason,” one user wrote.“The hypotheticals are hilarious,” posted another.“Coulda woulda shoulda. Knicks in 5,” a comment read.“I doubt it. But the crazy we willl never know now will we?” another fan commented.Sep 7, 2017; Cleveland, OH, USA; New Cleveland Cavaliers player Isaiah Thomas talks to the media as general manager Koby Altman listens during a press conference at Cleveland Clinics Courts. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn ImagesIsaiah Thomas and Chris Paul’s NBA careersThomas was relatively unknown when he entered the 2011 NBA Draft. The Sacramento Kings selected him at No. 60, but he defeated the odds and made the final roster. The 5-foot-9 guard earned a spot on the All-Rookie second-team and received two All-Star selections. He has since bounced around the league and last played in the NBA in 2024.Meanwhile, Paul established himself as one of the best floor generals in league history. Fans and analysts praised him throughout his career for his leadership and basketball IQ. He is a 12-time All-Star, 11-time All-NBA selection, and seven-time All-Defensive team member. The league also named Paul to its 75th anniversary team.

Doc Rivers gets real on why James Harden's play style does not lead to postseason success originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.James Harden has been in the NBA since 2009, and he has been awesome. Initially starting off as a sixth man for the Oklahoma City Thunder, he truly rose to stardom with the Houston Rockets.He has mainly played as a shooting guard throughout his career, but he has become more of a point guard in recent years. Championship-winning head coach Doc Rivers believes that leaning into the second play style leads to the best version of Harden.Doc Rivers gets candid about James Harden's optimal play styleHarden is now playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he is the point guard alongside Donovan Mitchell. However, it seems that he still did not play winning basketball because the Cavs lost in a sweep in the Eastern Conference Finals.In that ECF against the New York Knicks, it was clear that Harden was struggling. He was not impactful, especially as a scorer, something that Rivers wants to minimize from Harden's game.MORE: Doc Rivers appreciates what James Harden did for the CavaliersRivers and Harden worked together across two seasons on the Philadelphia 76ers. The Beard was superb as a point guard under Rivers, but they still could not win, even with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey as the stars.It seems that Rivers is just not a fan of how Harden calls his number many times throughout the game. He wants him to play more within the flow of the game and serve up amazing passes to his teammates."James is a phenomenal player. I still think the best part of his game which he does not like as much as I do. I think he has as good a vision as anybody I've seen next to Rondo and Chris," Rivers said about Harden on Bill Simmons' podcast."James doesn't give everybody else enough room to be great. He's the only one who can be great. I don't think it's a jealousy thing; I just think it's just how he plays. As he said, he's the system, but I don't think that's the system to win."Rivers brings up valid points about Harden. He can be one of the best playmakers, but it still feels like the system needs to be built around him. If he can be a secondary player, that could open up the game for the team. Unfortunately for Harden, Rivers might be correct with his point.More NBA news:Kevin Garnett wants LeBron James to come back to ClevelandWhy Kyrie Irving chose not to celebrate the 10-year championship anniversary with the CavsHow James Harden got into legal trouble in TexasA James Harden prediction that Cavs fans might not likeDarius Garland was reportedly unhappy with the Cavaliers before the trade

ONE Championship returns to Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, on Friday, June 26, with another exclusive card for members of The Inner Circle, streaming live at live.onefc.com.The Inner Circle 20 features two undefeated fighters who meet for the first time to crown a new ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion in the main event, while a legendary Thai rivalry reignites in a third and deciding chapter in the co-main event.View this post on InstagramIn the headliner, Asadula Imangazaliev and Aslamjon Ortikov meet for the vacant ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Title in a bout that marks the first time in ONE Championship history that two undefeated ONE Friday Fights contract winners will compete for 26 pounds of gold. Both men earned their contracts with knockout performances at Lumpinee Stadium, and neither has ever tasted defeat.Imangazaliev is 12-0 with nine stoppages and has been one of the most destructive forces on the weekly series since his arrival. The 22-year-old Dagestani, training out of Team Mehdi Zatout and Team Chingiz Allazov, has knocked out both Nong-O Hama and Kongthoranee Sor Sommai — the two men fighting directly below him on this very card — and carries the kind of raw finishing ability that makes every exchange feel dangerous.Ortikov is 24-0 with 13 finishes and has drawn comparisons to the Lomachenko of Muay Thai for his fluid, switching, unpredictable style that makes opponents look foolish just when they think they have him figured out. The Uzbek grew up in Samarkand, which he describes as “little Thailand” for its fighting culture. He came to Bangkok alone to chase his dream, and became an eight-time Uzbekistan National Champion and two-time Asian Champion before his ONE career began. His most recent outing was a second-round TKO of Jordan Estupinan at ONE Fight Night 43. He is ranked as one of the most technically gifted fighters on the roster and arrives here with the kind of hunger that only comes from a fighter who has spent years building something from nothing, far from home.View this post on InstagramIn the co-main event, Nong-O and Kongthoranee settle their rivalry in a third and perhaps final flyweight Muay Thai bout. Their series has been a study in contrasts and adjustments. In the first fight at ONE Fight Night 28, Kongthoranee used his youth, speed, and relentless work rate to edge a split decision over the legendary veteran. The result suggested the old guard might be slipping. Nong-O answered emphatically in the rematch at ONE Fight Night 31, coming forward more, dictating the pace, and earning a unanimous decision and a performance bonus that proved he still had every answer. The third fight is the one that settles it.Nong-O is one of the greatest technical fighters Muay Thai has ever produced. He’s a former eight-time ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion and four-division Lumpinee Stadium World Champion who came out of retirement after three years to dominate the sport all over again.Kongthoranee, meanwhile, is a three-time Rajadamnern Stadium World Champion and a fighter who has built his life around the sport after losing his father young and growing up with his grandparents. View this post on InstagramThe supporting card adds three more compelling bouts. In one, Thailand’s Stamp Fairtex — the promotion’s first and only three-sport World Champion — returns to atomweight Muay Thai action against Mexico’s Cynthia Flores, who is looking to finally kick off her ONE campaign against one of the sport’s biggest stars.The Inner Circle 20 June 26 Full CardAsadula Imangazaliev vs. Aslamjon Ortikov (ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Championship)Nong-O vs. Kongthoranee Sor Sommai (Muay Thai – flyweight)PTT vs. Julio Lobo (Muay Thai – bantamweight)Stamp Fairtex vs. Cynthia Flores (Muay Thai – atomweight)Muangthai PK Saenchai vs. Panrit Lukjaomaesaiwaree (Muay Thai – bantamweight)Source

Elis James thinks he has a friend in common with just about everyone else in Wales. Don’t believe him? Give him 60 seconds to prove it.

In a game with potential implications for Team USA, Egypt stormed late past New Zealand Sunday night for a 3-1 to win seize control of Group G in the World Cup.The win for Egypt is the nation’s first ever in World Cup play and breaks a deadlock in Group G, in which each of the three previous games ended in a draw. Egypt’s win combined with a draw against against Belgium in Round 1 gives it four points in the Group G standings with one round of group play to go. It’s now the favorite to win the group.Belgium and Iran, who have played to draws in each of their first two games, have two points each in the standings. New Zealand, which had a 1-0 halftime lead against Egypt and a chance to take the top of the Group G standings, falls to the bottom instead with a single point. And its dreams of crashing the knockout round as the lowest-ranked team in the World Cup field took a significant hit. Egypt a potential knockout round opponent for USAThe win for Egypt sets up a potential Round of 16 matchup against USA, which has already won Group D. The Group D winner would play the Group G winner in the Round of 16 if both teams advanced past the Round of 32.So there’s a lot to happen between now and then, but a Round of 16 matchup between Egypt and USA is a distinct possibility. Egypt piles on late to squash New Zealand’s upset bidDespite repeated first-half chances for Egypt, New Zealand was in control at halftime thanks to a 15th-minute Finn Surman header off a corner kick that found the back of the net.But Iran’s chances started turning into goals after halftime.Mostafa Zico put Egypt on the board with a 58th-minute header to tie the game at 1-1. Team captain Mohamed Salah then put Egypt on top with a transition goal off his left foot in the 67th minute. Trézéguet added insurance for Egypt with a header off a corner kick for a 3-1 lead, and New Zealand didn’t score again.Egypt will close group play on Friday against Iran and can clinch Group G with a win. Belgium, the initial favorite to win Group G, will seek its first win at this year’s World Cup in the corresponding Group G finale against New Zealand.

It has been a while, but it is the conclusion of another NFL offseason weekend. It is time to take a look around the NFC West to see what is going on with the Arizona Cardinals' division rivals. What is new with the San Francisco 49ers?Below are a few stories from the last week about the 49ers for Cardinals fans to know about. New WR already impressingThe 49ers added former Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Mike Evans this offseason. Through the offseason program, he is already impressing people. Bad defensive metric for the Niners in 2025Despite their successful season last year, the 49ers were not a dominant defensive unit. They didn't have a great disruptive defense. They had the second-worst mark in what is called defensive havoc rate. 4 rookies who flashedThe offseason program is over for every team. But fans want to know what rookies have done well in practices. The 49ers had four rookies stand out, including their top draft pick. 5 UDFAs to watchEvery year, undrafted rookie free agents make NFL rosters. These are five for the 49ers who have a shot at making the 53-man roster. 49ers' top breakout candidateEvery year, we look for the players expected to improve. Cardinals fans hope receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. finally breaks out. As for the 49ers, that could be receiver Ricky Pearsall. 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: 49ers news: Mike Evans impressing, rookies who impressed

Iran fans hold Iranian flags outside the Marriott Hotel in Tijuana, Mexico, on June 21, 2026. —Guillermo Arias—AFP/Getty ImagesWhile Iran and Belgium played to a fairly calm 0-0 draw in their World Cup group stage matchup in Los Angeles on Sunday—a contest marked by Iran keeper Alireza Beiranvand’s spectacular left-handed save in the 59th minute—tensions between Iran and the nation hosting their World Cup games continue to escalate.After the U.S. and Iran signed an initial agreement to end the war last week, and as the two sides met in Switzerland to hash out longer-term peace on Sunday, President Donald Trump threatened further strikes against Iran, which said it was again closing the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile Markwayne Mullen, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, told Fox News on Sunday that the president of Iran’s soccer federation, who has been denied a visa to enter the U.S. during the World Cup, on Saturday attempted to board the team’s plane from Tijuana, Mexico, where Iran is based during the tournament, to Los Angeles. Mullen accused the Iranian sports official—he did not directly name him, but the president of Iran’s soccer body is Mehdi Taj—of having “direct ties” to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the Iranian military body that the U.S. government has deemed a terrorist organization.Iran’s soccer federation hit back hard with a statement, calling Mullen’s remarks “FAKE” and an “outright and undeniable lie.” The statement said Mullen’s comments “represent a clear attempt to cover up discriminatory behavior and unreasonable restrictions imposed on the Iranian national team delegation.” (Eleven members of the team’s traveling party were denied U.S. visas for the World Cup). The federation called the U.S. a “law-breaking country.”“All I can tell you is that Secretary Mullen is accurate,” Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House Task Force on the FIFA 2026 World Cup, tells TIME in a telephone interview on Sunday. “Every single day he is focused on the safety of the homeland, and Americans should sleep sound at night knowing that he is your Secretary of Homeland Security.”The salvos come on the heels of complaints, made by the Iranian coaches and players, about the restrictions on their World Cup travel. During its first two games of the tournament, a 2-2 tie against New Zealand, also in Los Angeles, on June 15, and Sunday’s draw, Iran had to fly into Southern California from Mexico on the day before the game, and leave right after the final whistle. While it’s common for teams to return to their base camps following a game, the U.S. team, for example, flew from Irvine, Calif., to Seattle two days before its match against Australia on June 19, and Belgium was in L.A. two days before the Iran game.After last week’s Iran-New Zealand tie, Iranian striker Mehdi Taremi called the arrangements “a disaster for us.” Taremi said it took the team hours to get through immigration upon landing for that World Cup opener. On Saturday, according to an Iranian soccer press officer, the team departed Tijuana at 12:20 p.m., less than 24 hours before kickoff. After a quick flight, immigration, and a stop at the team hotel, Iran’s practice began at 4:30 p.m., which is unusually late the day before a noon start. So Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei said the team did not conduct its usual full practice session.At a press conference Ghalenoei, through an interpreter, said that the U.S. policies “undermine the ethics and spirit of football” and are “not suitable” for a World Cup. “It shows we are an oppressed country,” Ghalenoei said.According to Giuliani, Iran agreed to these terms—arrive in the U.S. the day before the match, leave right after—weeks ago. “The complaint of not being able to stay the extra day, I’m kind of mind-boggled by it,” says Giuliani, citing the short flight time, about a half-hour, from Los Angeles to Tijuana. Giuliani notes that NFL teams typically fly back to their home cities right after road games, and that the U.S. soccer team, after beating Australia 2-0 on Friday, took a three-hour flight to return to its Orange County, Calif., home base.“I wouldn’t look at this as overly burdensome in any kind of way,” says Giuliani. “I think the U.S. government has taken extraordinary steps to allow an even playing field.” Iran plays Egypt in its last group stage game this Friday, June 26. Restrictions could be eased for this game. “We're going to reassess," Giuliani says.Despite all the upheaval, Iran still has an opportunity to win Group G and advance to the knockout round for the first time in the nation’s seven World Cup appearances. Belgium, ranked No. 10 in the world, had possession of the ball for 70% of the game on Sunday and outshot Iran 23-7. Team Melli was fortunate to escape with a point. “We are very, very happy,” says Iran midfielder Alireza Jahanbakhsh.And if Iran does win the group, and their game in the round of 32, there’s a chance Team Melli could face the U.S. in the round of 16.“We put our hearts on the pitch,” says Jahanbakhsh, “for our people.”

MUNICH, GERMANY - MAY 16: Michael Olise of FC Bayern Munich celebrates with the Bundesliga Player of the Season award after the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern München and 1. FC Köln at Allianz Arena on May 16, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images) | Getty Images Bayern to offer Olise €25 million per season? (Sport Bild’s Christian Falk)Bayern Munich is seeing (and probably hearing) the news about Michael Olise and how both Real Madrid and Manchester City could come calling for the attacker. The Bavarians are going to try and get out in front of this by offering the Frenchman an annual salary of €25 million per season. For perspective, only Jamal Musiala, Harry Kane (also due for a big raise), Joshua Kimmich, and Manuel Neuer made that much this past season: Bayern want to nearly double Michael Olise’s wages in Munich as part of a deal to keep him at the club until 2031. You’ve heard the saying, if in trouble, make it double. The trouble is from Real Madrid – they really want him, and they’re fully aware of just how good he was in the Bundesliga this season. He was the player of the year in Germany and has enjoyed a remarkable transformation since his €50m move from Crystal Palace. It wasn’t a €100m deal like Harry Kane’s, which is why his salary isn’t up to par with the likes of the Englishman or Jamal Musiala. He’s right in the middle of the squad’s earners, so about €15m. Now, of course, he’s one of the most important players in the first XI, so he deserves more money. That’s why FC Bayern are prepared to give Michael Olise more money, and their argument is that if they’re prepared to offer more money, perhaps the France international can give them a few more years on the contract. In Germany, you can make a deal up to five years long, so the idea would be a contract until 2031. With that in mind, he can get closer to the top earners at Bayern Munich at around €25m a year.This is getting ludicrous — another Olise, Real rumor (Madrid Universal)Speaking of Olise, there was another — more creative — rumor linking him to Real Madrid. This one might not have landed on our radar if not for it being a pseudo-swap deal (and come on, you know we love a good swap deal rumor):Real Madrid could be preparing one of the most ambitious transfer operations of the summer as club president Florentino Perez explores a deal for Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise that could involve both a huge cash offer and the departure of a key first-team midfielder.It must be remembered that Olise has emerged as the preferred attacking target for Real Madrid, with the club viewing the French international as an ideal addition to Jose Mourinho’s squad. However, convincing Bayern Munich to part ways with one of their most valuable players will not be straightforward.As a result, Los Blancos are considering a creative proposal that could see either Aurelien Tchouameni or Eduardo Camavinga included in negotiations to reduce the overall transfer cost.In fact, according to Defensa Central, Real Madrid are willing to commit a substantial financial package to complete the transfer.Depending on the structure of the deal, the club could offer between €100 million and €130 million in addition to one of their midfielders.The proposal would not be a direct player swap but rather two separate operations designed to benefit both clubs financially.LFC to launch nine-figure bid for Diomande (ESPN)Liverpool seems like it really is going to pursue RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande: Liverpool are willing to make an offer approaching €100m for RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, according to The Athletic. Leipzig want to extend the Ivory Coast international’s contract, who is also of interest to Paris Saint-Germain, so it would take a big offer to convince them to allow the transfer. It could take as much as €130m to see Diomande, 19, make a move this summer.Host of teams want De Cat (ESPN)Well, if Bayern Munich is truly interested in Anderlecht midfielder Nathan De Cat, it will have to outduel a host of teams: Anderlecht defensive midfielder Nathan De Cat is being looked at by Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen, RB Leipzig, Stuttgart, Manchester City, Chelsea, Aston Villa, Everton, Arsenal, Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion.Bayern might not be “hot” on Bouaddi (Sport Bild’s Christian Falk)Bayern Munich might not pursuing Ayyoub Bouaddi after all:✅ It is TRUE: Bayern are looking at players of a similar profile to Ayyoub Bouaddi. That’s Christoph Freund’s job. I heard it’s not so hot with Bouaddi, in particular, as the position in midfield is full. You have Noël Aséko, who’s coming back from his loan spell with Hannover. Vincent Kompany had a phone call with the 20-year-old and told him that he wants to see the midfielder in pre-season. Then, there will be a decision made at the end of August as to whether the midfielder is suitable for this squad. There’s also Joshua Kimmich, Aleksandar Pavlović, and Laimer, who can play there. If Bouaddi is cheap, then perhaps it’s an option. But I don’t think he’s going to be so cheap that Bayern will make a deal without selling players first.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:Comment on articles, community postsRec comments, community postsNew, improved notifications system!Fewer adsCreate community posts

INGLEWOOD, California — Mexico's hospitality for Iran's World Cup team has not gone unnoticed. Or unappreciated.Midfielder Alireza Jahanbakhsh made a point of thanking the people of Mexico, which welcomed Iran after they were forced to relocate their training camp from Tucson, Arizona. Iran is based in Tijuana, Mexico, and flies to the United States for its games."We love Mexican people. I think everyone has the same feeling," Jahanbakhsh said after Iran held Belgium to a 0-0 draw on Sunday, June 21, keeping its hopes of making the knockout rounds alive. "It's just unbelievable how welcome we are there and the hospitality there is amazing, and I think there is a really heartful feeling between the players and the team to Mexican people now. "I would like to say, `muchas gracias,'" Jahanbakhsh said, smiling. More: Iran team is giving masterclass in composure at World Cup | OpinionSome Tijuanans are even roadtripping to Los Angeles to support their new friends. At the Belgium game, there were fans wearing caps and jerseys from Club Tijuana, where Iran is training, and many Mexico fans seem to have adopted Iran as their No. 2 team. "It feels kind of home when we are there in Tijuana and them coming all the way here to support us, it means a lot to us," Jahanbakhsh said. "At least we are another four or five days there. Hopefully it's a bit longer. "We really appreciate them, and hopefully we can have more good and fun times with them together."Iran plays Egypt in the group-stage finale on Friday, June 26 in Seattle.This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Iran says `muchas gracias' to Mexican people for support at World Cup

Elis James thinks he has a friend in common with just about everyone else in Wales. Don’t believe him? Give him 60 seconds to prove it.

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is at it again. On Father's Day, Aiyuk continued his flirtation with the Washington Commanders, posting another video on his personal Instagram page. What did Aiyuk say this time?"Go Commanders. Go Commanders. Go Commanders. Raise Hail. Take Command."It's the latest Instagram video from Aiyuk, where he clearly makes it known that his preferred place to play is Washington, where he'd reunite with quarterback Jayden Daniels. Aiyuk and Daniels were teammates at Arizona State in 2019 and remain close friends. In addition to Sunday's video, Aiyuk previously posted photos of himself in a Washington hat and another with a Commanders' football. He's also posted images, where he's tagged the location as Virginia or Washington, D.C. The Commanders' team headquarters is in Ashburn, Virginia. View this post on Instagram

It has been a while, but it is the conclusion of another NFL offseason weekend. It is time to take a look around the NFC West to see what is going on with the Arizona Cardinals' division rivals.What is new with the Seattle Seahawks?Below are a few stories from the last week about the Seahawks for Cardinals fans to know about.RB under most pressure in 2026Every year, teams have players under pressure. Some are under more pressure than others for different reasons. This Seahawks running back is considered to be under the most pressure.Seahawks DB is a unicornSecond-year safety Nick Emmanwori is an athletic freak. Here is why he is a unicorn.'NFL Top 100' lock?Receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba had about as good a season as a receiver could have last season. Is he a lock to be in the Top 100?2 potential breakout stars?JSN had a monster breakout year last season. Could the Seahawks have potentially a breakout star in 2026 on both sides of the ball?More fullback?Looking ahead to the 2026 season, the Seahawks might have a bigger role on offense for their fullback. 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: Seahawks news: Breakout candidates, top 100 lock, more fullback

The Cincinnati Reds are promoting right-handed pitcher Julian Garcia from Triple-A Louisville ahead of their three-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers at Great American Ball Park, according to a report late June 21 from The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal.Garcia has impressed this season for the Bats, posting a 3.03 ERA with 12 walks, 54 strikeouts and four home runs allowed over 35 2/3 innings.Garcia has made 19 of his 21 appearances in relief for Louisville. In the longest of his two starts, he pitched three innings.Garcia posted a 3.38 ERA in four Spring Training appearances for the Reds.What to know about Garcia, who turned 31 years old in May:The Reds signed Garcia as a free agent to a minor-league contract in 2025.Garcia made 41 appearances, including 31 starts, over two seasons for the independent Kansas City Monarchs of the American Association in 2024 and 2025.He also posted a 2.35 ERA in nine appearances in the Puerto Rican Winter League.The Reds signed Garcia in 2025 and assigned him to Double-A Chattanooga after he struck out 163 and walked just 32 over 111 2/3 innings for the Monarchs last season while posting a 3.39 ERA.Garcia set a Monarchs record with the 163 strikeouts in 2025. He was four strikeouts shy of an American Association record, set in 2017 by current Texas Rangers pitcher Tyler Alexander.Garcia posted a 1.13 ERA with 21 strikeouts and four walks in 16 innings for the Lookouts in 2025.Garcia was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 10th round of the 2016 draft.Garcia pitched two seasons at Metropolitan State University of Denver.Garcia pitched in the minors for the Phillies from 2016 to 2022.The Boston Red Sox selected former Red Santiago Espinal 11 picks after the Phillies took Garcia.None of the players in the Reds' 2016 draft class are on Cincinnati's current 40-man roster. The Reds' first-round pick in 2016, Nick Senzel, is playing for the Lexington Legends.Garcia's first appearance for the Reds would be his MLB debut.Garcia has pitched twice at the Triple-A level: in 2021 for the Phillies' affiliate in Lehigh Valley, and this season for Louisville.He struggled with his command at Lehigh Valley, and the Phillies released him less than one year later.He missed the 2023 season before joining the Monarchs' bullpen in 2024. By the start of the 2025 season, he was the Monarchs' ace.This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Julian Garcia, Louisville right-handed pitcher, joining Reds

The Cincinnati Reds are promoting right-handed pitcher Julian Garcia from Triple-A Louisville ahead of their three-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers at Great American Ball Park, according to a report late June 21 from The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal.Garcia has impressed this season for the Bats, posting a 3.03 ERA with 12 walks, 54 strikeouts and four home runs allowed over 35 2/3 innings.Garcia has made 19 of his 21 appearances in relief for Louisville. In the longest of his two starts, he pitched three innings.Garcia posted a 3.38 ERA in four Spring Training appearances for the Reds.What to know about Garcia, who turned 31 years old in May:The Reds signed Garcia as a free agent to a minor-league contract in 2025.Garcia made 41 appearances, including 31 starts, over two seasons for the independent Kansas City Monarchs of the American Association in 2024 and 2025.He also posted a 2.35 ERA in nine appearances in the Puerto Rican Winter League.The Reds signed Garcia in 2025 and assigned him to Double-A Chattanooga after he struck out 163 and walked just 32 over 111 2/3 innings for the Monarchs last season while posting a 3.39 ERA.Garcia set a Monarchs record with the 163 strikeouts in 2025. He was four strikeouts shy of an American Association record, set in 2017 by current Texas Rangers pitcher Tyler Alexander.Garcia posted a 1.13 ERA with 21 strikeouts and four walks in 16 innings for the Lookouts in 2025.Garcia was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 10th round of the 2016 draft.Garcia pitched two seasons at Metropolitan State University of Denver.Garcia pitched in the minors for the Phillies from 2016 to 2022.The Boston Red Sox selected former Red Santiago Espinal 11 picks after the Phillies took Garcia.None of the players in the Reds' 2016 draft class are on Cincinnati's current 40-man roster. The Reds' first-round pick in 2016, Nick Senzel, is playing for the Lexington Legends.Garcia's first appearance for the Reds would be his MLB debut.Garcia has pitched twice at the Triple-A level: in 2021 for the Phillies' affiliate in Lehigh Valley, and this season for Louisville.He struggled with his command at Lehigh Valley, and the Phillies released him less than one year later.He missed the 2023 season before joining the Monarchs' bullpen in 2024. By the start of the 2025 season, he was the Monarchs' ace.This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Julian Garcia, Louisville right-handed pitcher, joining Reds

Broadcast sports radio is still a megaphone that sports podcasts wish they had. It remains one of the most valuable assets sports radio provides: a built-in audience that is highly engaged and rarely listens passively. That’s why so many broadcast companies use the medium as a promotional tool for their podcast platforms.You’ve heard the ads. Check out this random podcast on the (insert company name) podcast network. Streaming on the (insert company name) app. These spots are often programmed from afar and inserted based on broad audience demographics. The problem is they frequently have little to do with what local listeners actually want from their local sports radio station.They’re a headache for programmers and talent alike. Instead of getting back to the content and personalities audiences tune in for, stations extend commercial breaks to accommodate company priorities. Quantity takes precedence over quality. Plus, local brands are often forced to promote content that may have little relevance to their listeners.Just the other day, I tuned into my local sports radio station here in Tampa Bay and heard a 30-second commercial for a soccer podcast hosted by names I didn’t recognize. Yes, the World Cup is here and people are watching. However, you just can’t say soccer and expect me to check it out because. “Hey, soccer is here.”It reminded me of my time programming the station. We were the home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, yet it seemed like we ran promotional spots every hour for Off The Edge with Cam Jordan. When I questioned management why we were promoting a star player from a rival team, I was told the ads had to run at the allotted frequency.I didn’t understand it then, and I still don’t understand it now. Why are local sports radio stations serving as megaphones for content that doesn’t resonate with the audience they serve? More importantly, is there data proving these ads drive enough podcast discovery to justify forcing them onto local brands?A Messaging Issue… Last week, Sounds Profitable and JAR Podcast Solutions released joint research examining how listeners discover, engage with, and recommend podcasts. If you’re sitting in a programming chair like I once was, the findings should grab your attention.Among nearly 3,800 podcast listeners surveyed, only 9% said they discovered their favorite podcast through a radio commercial. That ranked next to last among all discovery methods measured. The numbers were even lower among key advertising demographics. Just 4% of adults ages 18-34 and 8% of adults ages 35-54 said radio or television helped them discover their favorite podcast.Those numbers matter because the entire purpose of these promotional messages is discoverability. Companies use local inventory to build awareness for podcast networks, attract high-profile talent, and drive listening. Every major audio company follows some version of this strategy.I remember discussing the approach with iHeartPodcast President Will Pearson.“We find the best way to get somebody to listen to a new podcast is by reaching them in another form of audio, either through podcast or through broadcast radio. It’s a massive part of our success story,” said Pearson last March.That perspective makes sense on the surface. Radio still delivers reach at a scale most podcasts can only dream about. Yet the new research raises an important question: Are these messages actually working with the audiences hearing them?There are countless ways for consumers to discover podcasts today. YouTube and social media continue to lead the way. Platforms such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify also excel at surfacing new content through recommendations and algorithms tailored to listener behavior. However, if traditional radio listeners aren’t discovering podcasts through radio commercials, then it’s fair to question whether these promotional campaigns are producing the desired return.The beauty of asking that question is that it opens the door to potential better solutions.Refresh The ApproachOne option is simple: give some of that inventory back to your talent. We’ve seen plenty of research showing that long commercial breaks contribute to audience tune-out. Reducing those breaks and allowing hosts more time to create compelling content benefits both the station and the listener. Even thirty seconds can mean more than you imagine.Another option is to rethink what gets promoted. Instead of using local inventory almost exclusively for national podcasts, why not dedicate more of it to local podcast content created by local talent? Stations could use those promotional opportunities to build deeper relationships with their audience while creating new sponsorship opportunities around products they directly control.There’s also a talent benefit. Local podcasting can provide additional content opportunities and potentially create new revenue streams for personalities. More importantly, listeners already know the voices behind those shows. Promoting familiar talent gives audiences a stronger reason to engage than asking them to sample a random podcast they’ve never heard of.The larger issue is understanding that audio audiences are not all the same. Your broadcast sports radio audience is different from your YouTube audience. Your YouTube audience is different from your podcast audience. Yet many companies continue treating all audio consumers as though they behave identically.If broadcast radio companies want to continue using their sports radio stations as promotional engines for podcast growth, the strategy must evolve. It can’t be plug-and-play. It can’t rely on blanket assumptions that every listener will respond the same way simply because they consume audio.A Wake Up Call?The latest research should serve as a wake-up call. For years, broadcasters have operated under the assumption that reach automatically translates into discovery. The data suggests otherwise.That doesn’t mean podcast promotion should disappear from radio. It means the approach needs refinement. Promote content that aligns with local interests. Give stations flexibility to spotlight their own talent and products. Create messaging that feels relevant rather than mandatory. Most importantly, build promotional strategies around audience behavior instead of corporate convenience.Broadcast radio remains one of the most powerful promotional tools in media. But power without precision is wasteful. If companies want better results, they need a cross-promotional model that reflects how audiences actually discover content today.The research is there. The audience has spoken. Now it’s time for the strategy to catch up.Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.John MamolaJohn Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.linktr.ee/johnmamolaThe post Broadcast Companies Must Rethink Podcast Cross Promotion on Sports Radio Stations appeared first on Barrett Media.

Presidential candidate Abelardo de la Espriella of the opposition Defenders of the Motherland movement arrives to vote with his family during the runoff election in Barranquilla, Colombia, Sunday, June 21, 2026. (AP Photo/Ivan Valencia)2026-06-22T04:01:41Z BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) — A polarized Colombia gave conservative political outsider Abelardo de la Espriella a razor-thin lead in a runoff election that will be challenged in the coming days by the ruling party’s progressive candidate.De la Espriella, a business owner and lawyer who earned U.S. President Donald Trump’s endorsement despite never having run for office, led progressive lawmaker Iván Cepeda taking 49.7% of the votes, with 99.9% of results released by electoral authorities. Cepeda, Petro’s ally, earned 48.7% support. Election officials have not formally announced a winner.A victory by de la Espriella is expected to usher in policies that will reverse the agenda of outgoing President Gustavo Petro, including a controversial plan to hold parallel peace negotiations with illegal armed groups. Petro’s protégé, lawmaker Ivan Cepeda, had pledged to push forward that strategy and other social reforms if he won Sunday’s vote. The election was colored by people’s fears of a renewed internal conflict.“I will govern for all Colombians,” de la Espriella, nicknamed “The Tiger,” told thousands of supporters as he stood behind bulletproof glass in the northern city of Barranquilla on Sunday night. But his conciliatory tone changed as he spoke. “Pack your bags and prepare to exercise the opposition,” he added. “Make no mistake, Mr. Cepeda. You already know how fiercely the tiger roars.” Read More Speaking from Bogota after the vote count was tallied, Cepeda told supporters that his campaign considers the count “unofficial and non-binding” and that his team will challenge results from more than 30,000 voting stations. No recount has flipped the results of a presidential election in Colombian history. “We will not allow ... the rollback of the social gains we have achieved,” Cepeda said. “We will not allow democracy to be violated.”Petro also vowed to challenge the outcome. Sunday’s winner will begin a four-year term Aug. 7. The two candidates pitched voters widely different strategies to prevent the South American country from experiencing the nonstop violence, such as car bombs, kidnappings, disappearances and forced displacements, that Colombians lived with in previous decades. Sign up for Morning Wire: Our flagship newsletter breaks down the biggest headlines of the day. Email address Sign up By checking this box, you agree to AP's Terms of Use and acknowledge that AP may collect and use your data pursuant to our Privacy Policy. De la Espriella, 47, promised a heavy-handed approach to crime-fighting, including drug trafficking. He also said he plans to end Petro’s attempts to establish dialogues with multiple armed groups — an effort that has largely failed — and build mega-prisons, emulating Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele’s aggressive policies. Those tactics have lowered homicide rates in the Central American country but have fueled accusations of human rights abuses.De la Espriella holds dual Colombian and U.S. citizenship. He’s a Trump supporter and a member of the Republican Party.“He Won, BIG!” Trump said on his social media platform. ‘It’s always the same violence’Yolanda Hernández, who recycles trash for a living, voted for Petro in 2022, but cast her ballot for de la Espriella this time. While she acknowledged that Petro was unable to deliver on promises meant to help the poor because of congressional gridlock, she said Colombia cannot afford another four years under his vision for the country.“We want change in Colombia because it’s always the same violence, always the same thing,” Hernández, 49, said. “(Petro) said he was going to lower the cost of services, that he was going to lower the price of food, and everything is more expensive.”Will Freeman, a fellow for Latin American Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, said Sunday’s result shows the country “has not shifted overwhelmingly or decisively” against Petro’s project or for de la Espriella’s outsider “iron fist showmanship.” Freeman added that the result also underscored Colombia’s regional divisions.“It’s regional not just ideological polarization; or rather, the two overlapping,” he said. “Ironically, de la Espriella’s iron-fist message performed best in the core of the country, not the periphery, which bears the brunt of Colombia’s violence.”Colombia’s illegal groups have more than 27,000 members. Last year, authorities recorded 14,780 homicides, the most since at least 2015, driven by clashes among illegal armed groups. Among those killed was conservative presidential hopeful Miguel Uribe.

Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer walks, as he visits a housing development in north London, Friday, June 19, 2026. (Peter Macdiarmid/Pool Photo via AP)2026-06-22T04:04:44Z LONDON (AP) — Expectation is building that U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer will set out a timetable for his resignation as soon as Monday, conceding to pressure from his Labour Party to hand over the reins of power.If he does, Starmer will be the sixth prime minister in a decade to stand outside 10 Downing Street and announce a premature departure.Starmer spent the weekend pondering his future following the victory of intraparty rival Andy Burnham in a special election for a seat in Parliament. Burnham, until last week the Labour mayor of Greater Manchester, ran with the aim of challenging Starmer for leadership of the party and the country.Burnham is due to be sworn in as a member of Parliament on Monday.Starmer’s office declined to comment on resignation reports, but Business Secretary Peter Kyle said Sunday that Starmer is “making time to reflect on the political realities, challenges and opportunities that he finds himself in.” It’s unclear whether Burnham would face a coronation or a challenge, if Starmer steps aside. Wes Streeting, who resigned as health secretary last month to protest Starmer’s leadership, has said that he will run in a contest if there is one. Discontent with the prime minister has been building for months, with Labour lawmakers desperate to reverse the government’s decline in popularity since Starmer led the center-left party to a landslide election victory in July 2024. Read More He has struggled to deliver promised economic growth, repair tattered public services and ease the cost of living, and has been hamstrung by repeated missteps, including his decision to appoint Peter Mandelson, a scandal-tarnished friend of Jeffrey Epstein, as the U.K. ambassador to the United States.Labour is losing liberal voters to the growing Green Party and facing a rising Reform UK, the Nigel Farage -led anti-immigration party that consistently leads in nationwide opinion polls. U.S. President Donald Trump weighed in even before an announcement, linking Starmer’s potential exit to two of his recurring bugbears: immigration and renewable energy. Sign up for Morning Wire: Our flagship newsletter breaks down the biggest headlines of the day. Email address Sign up By checking this box, you agree to AP's Terms of Use and acknowledge that AP may collect and use your data pursuant to our Privacy Policy. “Keir Starmer will resign as Prime Minister of The United Kingdom. He failed badly on two very important subjects- IMMIGRATION AND ENERGY (OPEN NORTH SEA OIL!). I wish him well! President DJT,” Trump posted on his social media platform.It was unclear whether Trump was responding to media reports about Starmer’s plans. The two leaders didn’t speak over the weekend.Starmer’s initially warm relationship with the president has soured in recent months over issues including the Iran war, which the U.K. didn’t join.In contrast to missteps on the domestic front, Starmer has won praise for his international role, notably in rallying European support for Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s invasion, and working to mitigate the economic and political turmoil unleashed by the Iran conflict.While many Labour lawmakers have rallied behind Burnham, some have said that Starmer had been treated unfairly. London legislator Neil Coyle railed on X against “the prospect of an utter stitch-up & the media circus being rewarded.“When the next leader cannot change Trump, Iran, Ukraine, Putin, Musk, broadcast editorial & algorithm bias overnight they’ll bay for his blood too. Better keep that guillotine sharp,” he wrote. JILL LAWLESS Lawless is based in London, covering British politics, diplomacy and culture and top stories from the UK and beyond. She has reported for the AP from two dozen countries on four continents. twitter mailto

Mohamed Salah's - and Egypt's - World Cup nightmares are finally over.The Egyptian King's match-winning second-half display helped the Pharaohs to their first ever World Cup win - at their ninth attempt - and leaves them on the brink of qualifying for the last 32.Salah's 67th-minute goal gave Egypt the lead - as they recovered from a shock early New Zealand opener - before his corner was headed home by Trezeguet to confirm the historic win.He had made a slow start to the tournament, with an ineffectual display in their opening draw with Belgium followed up by a quiet opening half against the Kiwis.But, just when it looked like Salah's own World Cup nightmares were about to continue, he became the latest superstar to make his mark on the tournament, following in the footsteps of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Harry Kane.After a forgettable World Cup campaign in 2018 and failure to qualify four years later in Qatar, Egypt's greatest ever player has finally had his moment on the biggest stage.And he will know a point against Iran will see his country through to the next round - and they may not even need that.Salah said: "It's a great achievement for all the players. It's a great win. It's a great vibe. The next game is very important."Salah helps Egypt beat New Zealand to end 92-year wait for World Cup winBust-ups, injuries and defeatsSalah's club future remains uncertain after a forgettable final campaign at Liverpool, which saw him fall out with then manager Arne Slot before announcing he was leaving this summer.He has been linked with various clubs across the world but he was determined to focus on his country's World Cup campaign first in a bid to put right the wrongs of the past.In 2018, Salah faced a race against time to make the World Cup due to injury and, despite making the squad, had to settle for a place on the bench in their opening defeat to Uruguay.His converted penalty was then merely consolation in a 3-1 loss to host nation Russia before he missed a sitter as Egypt suffered a humiliating loss to Saudi Arabia.The fallout to that World Cup failure was huge, with Salah accusing Egypt's FA of disrupting preparations and reports he was close to quitting international football.Things didn't get better as four years later they failed to qualify for Qatar and - after 45 minutes on Sunday - it looked like Salah's World Cup misery was set to continue.Egypt manager Hossam Hassan even had to speak out before the match to deny any fall out with Salah - after substituting him during the draw with Belgium.But, just when it looked like the Iran match could be last-chance saloon, Salah took matters into his hands to spark wild celebrations among Egypt fans across the world.'Salah stood up for his country'Salah may have been a superstar at Liverpool. He is on an even higher plane in Egypt.With every touch comes loud cheers from his country's fans with huge pressure on his shoulders on every appearance.Sunday's goal was his 68th for his country in 118 appearances, leaving him just one shy of manager Hassan's all-time goal scoring record, and some will say it's his most important yet as Egypt finally ended a 92-year wait for a World Cup win.Former Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou, told ITV: "If there was any doubt about Mo's impact on this team, you can still see it."It will give them enormous belief. They had to deal with adversity and their big player stood up and that will give them big confidence. You need your big players to perform to progress."Former Jamaica winger Jobi McAnuff added: "Just when he was needed, Mo Salah stood up for his country."Salah has played for the senior national team for 14 years and his importance to Egypt is such that high-ranking government officials have been known to get involved when he has been injured."I even had calls from Egypt's Minister of Health," recalls Dr Mohamed Aboud, the national team's medic, about the time Salah sustained a serious shoulder injury in Liverpool's defeat by Real Madrid in the 2018 Champions League final, leading to speculation he could miss the World Cup in Russia a few weeks later.But, despite helping Liverpool to the Premier League title in 2019-20 and 2024-25, the player has yet to lift a trophy for his country.The generation before Salah won three Africa Cup of Nations titles in a row between 2006 and 2010. Since then, there have been two defeats in finals, against Cameroon in 2017 and Senegal in the 2021 edition, which took place in early 2022.This World Cup win at least banishes one of Egypt's ghosts.World Cup fixtures and group standingsHow to watch the World Cup on the BBCEverything you need to know about the World Cup

The 2026 Women's T20 World Cup is in full swing across England and Wales, with 12 teams battling for the biggest prize in the shortest format. With 33 matches spread across seven iconic venues and the final set for July 5 at Lord's, the tournament has already delivered thrilling contests, surprise results and plenty of drama.Australia have once again emerged as the team to beat. The pre-tournament favourites made an early statement with a dominant nine-wicket win over Bangladesh at Headingley, underlining their intent to reclaim the trophy after New Zealand's triumph in 2024.India also began brightly. Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma starred in a convincing victory over the Netherlands, but their momentum was halted at Old Trafford by South Africa. Despite skipper Harmanpreet Kaur becoming the first cricketer, male or female, to make 200 T20I appearances, India fell to their first defeat of the tournament.South Africa, runners-up in 2024, are proving they remain serious contenders. After edging past Pakistan, the Proteas produced a clinical performance against India, with Marizanne Kapp smashing an unbeaten 81 off 45 balls to guide her side to a comfortable chase and throw Group 1 wide open.Hosts England have looked equally impressive. They posted their highest-ever T20I total against Sri Lanka in the tournament opener before backing it up with a four-wicket win over Ireland to move to the top of Group 2.Defending champions New Zealand, however, are facing an uphill battle. Consecutive defeats to West Indies and Sri Lanka have left their semi-final hopes hanging by a thread.Meanwhile, West Indies are enjoying a dream run. Hayley Matthews has led from the front as the Caribbean side secured a third straight win by defeating Sri Lanka, strengthening their grip on a semi-final spot.As the group stage reaches its crucial phase, the race for the final four is heating up. Australia remain favourites in Group 1, but India and South Africa are close behind, while England and West Indies currently lead the way in Group 2.Who Will Win The Women's T20 World Cup?We are backing Australia to win the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup. While the Australian women's team remains one of the most powerful powers in international sport, their relative silence over the last 18 months has been deafening, at least by their own lofty standards.However, underestimating them is a mistake. The team had a big yet very smooth change. While famous individuals such as Meg Lanning and Alyssa Healy have left, the current roster still has an unrivalled depth of quality and tournament experience.Why Australia Represents The Best Betting ValueTournament Record: Six T20 World Cup titles. More than any other nation. Australia do not just win this tournament, they define it. They have set the standard by which all other teams are measured.The Vengeance Factor: Losses in the semi-finals of both the 2024 T20 World Cup to South Africa and the 2025 ODI World Cup to India will be stinging them. That is not a statistic Australian cricket forgets. T20 World Cups are where this team has always excelled, and they arrive in England with something to prove. Squad Depth: Sophie Molineux has assembled a terrific squad. Phoebe Litchfield and Georgia Voll have the technical skill and aggression to take down any bowling attack. The middle order features players who have played 100 international matches. And the bowling lineup of Megan Schutt, Ashleigh Gardner and Georgia Wareham is among the most potent in world cricket. Think Australia can capture the crown, or fancy an English masterclass? Lock in the best tournament outrights today with Dafabet!Bet Now: Get 200% deposit match up to INR 20,000 when you sign up with Dafabet!When is the Women's T20 World Cup? Key Dates And ScheduleThe 2026 ICC Women's T20 World Cup runs from June 12 to July 5, with 12 teams competing across seven venues in England and Wales. This is the first edition to expand to 12 teams, creating more group stage matches and more opportunities for the unexpected to happen.Here are the key fixtures critical for your betting strategy:DateFixtureVenueWhy It MattersJune 24England vs West IndiesLord's, LondonCritical Group B progression matchJune 21India vs BangladeshOld Trafford, ManchesterCritical Group A progression matchEarly JulySemi-Finals 1 & 2TBAIn-play markets peak during knockoutsJuly 5ICC Women's T20 World Cup FinalTBAOutright market settlementGroup A contains Australia, India, Pakistan, South Africa, Bangladesh and the Netherlands.Group B features England, New Zealand, West Indies, Ireland, Scotland and Sri Lanka.The top two teams from each group advance to the knockout stage. MORE: Cricket matches today | List of best live fixtures, latest betting odds & predictionsWomen's T20 World Cup Odds: Who is the Favourite?Australia head the Dafabet market at 1.72, with England their closest pursuers at 3.75. India at 6.00 carry genuine each-way appeal, and South Africa at 15.00 are the final name in the frame for anyone hunting a longer-priced flutter. TeamOddsAustralia1.83England3.75South Africa11.00India15.00West Indies21.00Bangladesh251.00New Zealand301.00Sri Lanka301.00Scotland751.00Note: Odds are correct at the time of publishing and subject to change.How to bet on cricket: Complete guide for types of bets, odds, best online sitesHow To Bet On The Women's T20 World Cup 2026Betting on the ICC Women's T20 World Cup offers multiple markets and opportunities for profit. Here is how to approach the tournament:Tournament Outright Winner: A simple bet on which country lifts the trophy on 5 July. Great for locking in early value on teams like Australia, England or India. Match Betting (Moneyline): Wager on individual fixtures. The Australia vs South Africa clash and India vs Pakistan encounter are likely to attract the heaviest betting volume and most competitive odds. Prop Bets (Player Markets): High-yield options include Top Tournament Batter (watch Georgia Voll, Smriti Mandhana, Nat Sciver-Brunt), Top Bowler (Megan Schutt, Alana King), or Player of the Match markets across individual fixtures. In-Play / Live Betting: T20 cricket's volatility makes live betting particularly rewarding. Bet on the next wicket to fall, individual over runs, or match outcomes as they shift throughout the innings.Ready to place your tournament bet? Don't just watch the action, experience it. Access competitive cricket odds, secure deposits and exclusive promotions through Dafabet today.BEST WOMEN'S T20 WORLD CUP ODDS AND OFFERSCLICK TO BET

It has been a while, but it is the conclusion of another NFL offseason weekend. It is time to take a look around the NFC West to see what is going on with the Arizona Cardinals' division rivals.What is new with the Los Angeles Rams?Below are a few stories from the last week about the Rams for Cardinals fans to know about.Could backup RB break out?Last year, the Cardinals hoped that Trey Benson would have a productive season. This year, the Rams potentially could get what the Cardinals wanted from Benson out of running back Blake Corum. Why players love Sean McVayMcVay canceled mandatory minicamp. He was pleased with their offseason work. This is one reason why players love playing for him. No felony for Alaric JacksonLeft tackle Alaric Jackson was arrested this offseason for a domestic issue. He will not face felony charges, but he could face misdemeanor charges. Rams' X-factorThe Rams have made some big moves in the offseason, trading for pass rusher Myles Garrett and cornerback Trent McDuffie. But their X-factor might be this other player they added this offseason — cornerback Jaylen Watson. Potential problem on offenseThe Rams have a scary offense. However, if Davante Adams deals with injuries again, one analyst believes the red-zone offense might struggle a bit. 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: NFC West roundup: 5 Rams stories for Cardinals fans to know

Anaheim (Calif.) Western athlete Ayden Payne flipped his commitment from San Diego State to Oregon State earlier today and broke down why he chose the Beavers. Payne originally committed to the Aztecs back in May following his first official visit. It was a bit of a surprise, only because he had four other trips set and we didn’t think he was going to pull the trigger so early in the process. Payne decided to take one last visit after all, and checked out the Beavers this past weekend. The talented two-way standout decided to flip his commitment and will now play his college ball in Corvallis. “The biggest reason why I chose Oregon State is because they have the number one Forestry class in the country,” Payne said. “That’s what I plan to major in and and will set me up later in life to become a firefighter. “Going in to the visit, I was pretty open minded but wouldn’t say I was leaning to Oregon State. I really didn’t know what to expect but I already I liked them a lot and had a good unofficial visit back in March. Once I was there, it just felt right and I decided I wanted to be a Beaver.”DB Noble Thomas was Payne’s player host on the trip.“Noble was a lot of fun to be around,” Payne said. “We connected really well and all the players on the team treated me great.”Payne is a two-way player who had a solid junior season on both sides of the ball. He had 34 receptions for 793 yards and six touchdowns to go with 23 tackles and three interceptions.“I’m coming in as a defensive back,” Payne said. “Coach Mac (Mike MacIntyre) said the plan is to play me all over the secondary. He likes that I can play safety but also move down and play nickel and corner.“I really like the overall fit in their scheme and it’s similar to how I already play for my high school team.”

Jun 28, 2022; London, United Kingdom; Serena Williams (USA) during her first round match against Harmony Tan (FRA) on day two at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. © Susan Mullane-USA TODAY SportsVenus and Serena Williams recently took the tennis world by storm by accepting a doubles wildcard for the 2026 Wimbledon Championships, reviving their iconic partnership that includes 14 Grand Slam doubles titles and three Olympic gold medals.However, the excitement has reached an entirely new level now that Serena has also received a singles wildcard for the grass-court Major, where she has won seven of her 23 Grand Slam singles titles.How the Tennis World Reacted to Serena Williams’ Wimbledon Singles WildcardSerena Williams, who initially retired from professional tennis at the 2022 US Open, generated major buzz when she returned to the tour during the grass-court season. However, the American played only doubles at the Queen’s Club Championships and the Berlin Tennis Open, and her doubles partnership with Venus Williams at Wimbledon only fueled speculation that a singles return was not on the horizon.The 23-time Grand Slam champion has now put those beliefs to rest and created a frenzy by entering the singles draw at the grass-court Major. Her husband, Alexis Ohanian, was among the first to enthusiastically celebrate the news.“She’s back,” he posted.Boris Becker and Eugenie Bouchard also expressed their delight over the announcement.“Wonderful news from Serena & Wimbledon!” Becker posted.“Screaming crying throwing up,” Bouchard commented.Eugenie Bouchard’s Comment on Serena Williams and Wimbledon’s Instagram Post.Tennis journalists José Morón, Jon Wertheim, and Scott Barclay all welcomed the “surreal” development of the former world No. 1’s return to the singles court.“It’s not that it’s the news of the month, not even of the year… it might be the news of the DECADE 🤯 Serena Williams IS BACK, and she does so at 44 years old after several years retired. I don’t know what level we’ll see from her, but what is certain is that she’ll hook us all to the television in her return,” Morón said.“And Serena gets the @wimbledon wild card…this will be fun,” Wertheim wrote.“Serena Williams playing at Wimbledon in the women’s singles this year is genuinely surreal stuff. Legend of the game that we all thought was done for good… An absolutely insane timeline to be living in,” Barclay posted.Barclay also pushed back against the fans who were complaining about Williams’ wildcard and deeming it a slight to Dan Evans. Evans was not awarded a singles wildcard despite announcing that this year’s Wimbledon would be the final tournament of his career.“I think Dan Evans probably deserved a wildcard for his last Wimbledon as much as the next person but I’ve just seen a tweet complaining that they gave one to SERENA WILLIAMS so why not Evans and I just think we all need to take a step back and try to be serious for a minute. 😂,” Barclay commented.Meanwhile, tennis analyst Christian’s Court suggested that Williams would’ve been included among the top eight contenders in the pre-tournament odds if the news of her wildcard had broken earlier.“Feel like they’d put Serena in the top-eight if her singles WC was announced before the broadcast 😭,” the post read.MORE:Serena Williams’ Daughters Reunite With Father Alexis Ohanian As Wimbledon NearsSerena Williams has already arrived at Wimbledon and begun training on the grounds where she enjoyed some of the greatest moments of her career. The 23-time Grand Slam champion has been making memories with her daughters, Olympia and Adira, at SW19, while her husband, Alexis Ohanian, also flew in to join the family.