Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark didn’t play with DeWanna Bonner for long, but there’s clearly some bad blood between the former teammates. That bad blood came to a head Monday night, when an altercation between the two led to six technicals and an ejection during the Fever’s 86-77 win over the Phoenix Mercury. The incident started with just under eight minutes left to play in the contest. While jockeying for position, Bonner and Clark got tied up. A whistle was blown and Bonner ripped herself away from Clark, who followed Bonner and appeared to exchange words with her former teammate. Multiple players and officials got involved and things eventually reached a point where Clark was hit with a technical foul, her fifth of the season. Clark was not happy about that call after the contest, calling it “ridiculous.”"It's ridiculous, I got a technical for clapping. We should all just go on the calendar now and pick a game I'm going to be suspended for if I'm going to get technicals for clapping."Clark wasn’t the only player punished for the altercation. Sophie Cunningham and Bonner each got technical fouls for confronting each other after the play. Alyssa Thomas and Myisha Hines-Allen were also given technicals after the two were seen yelling at each other face-to-face. Play eventually resumed, but not for long. Hines-Allen was assessed another technical foul for shoving Thomas after the next play. Because it was her second technical of the contest, Hines-Allen was ejected. While it’s unclear exactly what led to the initial altercation, it could have something to do with Bonner’s short stay with the Fever in 2025. Bonner lasted just nine games with the team that season — Clark’s rookie year — due to playing time issues. Bonner started just three games with the Fever and later said “the fit did not work out” regarding her brief time with the team. Bonner was eventually waived and decided to sign with the Mercury.As for Clark, the third-year sharpshooter is now hurtling rapidly toward a mandatory suspension. Under WNBA rules, a player must miss a game if they receive an eighth technical foul in a season. Clark has only played in 16 games this season and already has five technicals.

Tonali in Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur bidding war, Newcastle want €100mItaly international and Newcastle United star Sandro Tonali is at the centre of a bidding war worth €100m between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, claim reports.There had been suggestions last week that the Magpies rejected an opening offer from Spurs for Tonali that was worth £75m (circa €87m) or even as much as €92m, but Sky Sports UK say they are ready to come in with a new and improved proposal.BUDAPEST, HUNGARY – SEPTEMBER 08: Sandro Tonali of Italy looks on during a Italy training session at Bozsik Stadion on September 08, 2024 in Budapest, Hungary. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)The problem for them is that Arsenal are also interested in the Azzurri talent and Mail Sport claim that the Premier League winners would be his preferred choice as well.Newcastle United are reportedly not prepared to budge until the offers reach €100m (£86m).Tonali the most valuable Italy playerBERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 26: Sandro Tonali of Italy celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates Mateo Retegui and Moise Kean during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Italy and Northern Ireland at Stadio di Bergamo on March 26, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)He only recently turned 26 last month and has been at Newcastle United since his massive €60m transfer from Milan in 2023.As part of that agreement, the Rossoneri are also owed a 10 per cent cut of the future sale fee, meaning they could get a significant boost to their coffers if this bidding war goes above €100m.A product of the Brescia youth academy, Tonali’s value has sky-rocketed over the years, as Milan paid €19.3m to get him in 2020.He was a regular for Newcastle United this season, scoring three goals and providing seven assists in 53 competitive games, but now feels the time is right for the next step up in his career.While Roberto De Zerbi would provide an Italian connection at Tottenham, Arsenal are far more ambitious and fresh from a campaign where they won the Premier League and reached the Champions League Final.

Bucks Owner Was 'Driving Force' In Rejecting Celtics' Offer For Giannis Antetokounmpo originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Milwaukee Bucks traded Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Miami Heat on Monday night, and Jimmy Haslam was the main reason the Bucks accepted the Heat's offer over the Boston Celtics'.Haslam has been part of the Mucks' ownership group since 2023, and according to Yahoo Sports' Kevin O'Connor, he was the "driving force" in the Bucks choosing the Heat's offer. There were reportedly concerns about Jaylen Brown's willingness to stay in Milwaukee after a potential trade."Sources say Bucks owner Jimmy Haslem was a driving force in taking the Heat deal for Giannis over Boston’s offer," wrote O'Connor on Tuesday. "Haslem didn’t want to risk Jaylen Brown wanting out of Milwaukee in a year after dealing with Giannis and Myles Garrett trade demands. Haslem wanted certainty, and the Miami deal provided more of that with more total assets in return to Milwaukee."Haslam's involvement with the Cleveland Browns likely ended up playing a role in the entire trade situation. The Browns traded away their franchise superstar in Garrett earlier this month. Understandably, he did not want to have to deal with trading another superstar in Brown.The Heat gave up Tyler Herro, Kel'el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kasparas Jakucionis, three first-round picks, one pick swap and one second-round pick in exchange for Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis. According to NBA insider Shams Charania, the Celtics offered a package featuring Brown and two first-round picks.The Heat's offer had more players and draft capital, but it's unclear if it was actually a better deal. Brown is a finals MVP and was All-NBA Second-Team last season.More NBA: Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Details: Heat Beat Celtics' Offer, Acquire Bucks Superstar

The Georgia Bulldogs have offered a scholarship to four-star wide receiver recruit Jordan Gorham, who is a member of the class of 2028. The rising junior plays high school football for IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida. IMG Academy is a football powerhouse and has provided Georgia with some elite talent over the years including defensive back Daylen Everette, linebacker Nolan Smith and defensive back Ellis Robinson. Georgia offered Gorham after he attended a UGA football camp in June. The four-star recruit is ranked as the No. 223 prospect in the country, per 247Sports. The class of 2028 pass catcher is ranked as the No. 32 player at his position and the No. 31 recruit in Florida. The 6-foot-5, 180-pound receiver is a good athlete that transferred to IMG Academy this year. Gorham runs track and plays basketball in addition to football. The lengthy receiver has good speed and recently ran a 4.56 40-yard dash. "After a great camp, I am blessed to received an offer from the University of Georgia," Gorham said via social media after getting an offer from UGA. The IMG Academy pass catcher has received recent scholarship offers from Memphis, Louisville, Arkansas, UCF and more. Gorham attended Timberland High School in St. Stephens, South Carolina, before transferring to IMG Academy.Georgia football offers Jordan Gorham#AGTG after a great camp I am blessed to received a(n) offer from THE UNIVERSITY of Georgia @CoachColey@KirbySmartUGA@ChadSimmons_@TomLoy247@247Sports@adamgorney@AnnaH247@CoachGWright@CoachAlecCobb@QuinnShanbourpic.twitter.com/bPGAmGkaEd— Jordan Gorham 4⭐️ (@Jordan2Gorham) June 16, 2026Follow UGA Wire on Instagram, Facebook, X, or Threads for more Georgia football coverage!This article originally appeared on UGA Wire: UGA football offers 4-star IMG Academy WR

It’s rare for a 4th round quarterback to become a longtime starter in the NFL. There have been exceptions (Dak Prescott and Kirk Cousins comes to mind) but each has been shadowed by a who’s who of “who’s that” (hello Kyle Lauletta). However, when former a Clemson star Cade Klubnik was selected isn’t the most despairing aspect of his projection, it’s where he was selected. The New York Jets are where Quarterbacks go to rot. Their last iconic signal caller came by the likes of Joe Namath, who was drafted as recently as the signing of the Civil Rights Act (1964). Their second greatest is arguably Ken O’Brien, who led them to exactly one playoff win in nine years. The greatest of this century is likely Chad Pennington, who was able to win two playoff games in his eight seasons. However, if there is any benefit to Cade landing in New York, it’s the lack of competition on that football team. Sitting behind a 35 year old Geno Smith, Klubnik is highly likely to see the field early on in his career. Additionally, the Jets have a multitude of interesting pieces on their roster. Breece Hall and Garrett Wilson are proven stars simply looking for a competent signal caller to distribute them the ball. AD Michell is an exciting young prospect with shades of George Pickens (complimentary and derogatory). Rookie Omar Cooper just won a National Championship with Indiana, and Kenyon Sadiq is a tight end with Julio Jones’ height and 40 time and Anthony Edwards’ vertical leap. The Jets also project a strong offensive line, with no clear holes at any of the five positions. They do set up a young quarterback to succeed, just haven’t been able to find that passer. In a perfect world, Cade plays a Point Guard-esque role for a team full of talented skill players. Think Memphis Grizzlies Tyus Jones or Phoenix Suns Ricky Rubio; a player that isn’t necessarily taking over games and creating big plays out of nothing, but can distribute in a way that gives his teammates the opportunity to do what they do best while limiting turnovers. Where Clemson ranks in EA College Football 27’s toughest places to play📸 Clemson Wire https://t.co/Skgu1CF4cDpic.twitter.com/LDkeMJsD7J— Clemson Wire (@Clemson_Wire) June 22, 2026If Klubnik can look like he did in 2024, he could genuinely help play a part in turning the Jets around. If he looks more like he did in 2025, he may peak as a high-end backup or bridge starter. Whether he’s the next Brock Purdy, or the next Will Grier, remember that Klubnik is exactly two playoff wins from becoming one of the greatest Jets quarterbacks of all time.Contact us @Clemson_Wire on X, and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Clemson Tigers news and notes, plus opinions.This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Evaluating Clemson's Cade Klubnik's potential with New York Jets

Jeff Hafley and Jon-Eric Sullivan knew what they were getting into when they signed up with the Miami Dolphins. And immediately, they wanted everyone else to understand that it was going to get worse before it got better.When new head coaches and general managers are introduced to the media, there's usually an unrelenting stream of optimism. And there was some of that in late January from Hafley and Sullivan, the new coach and GM of the Dolphins. But they also tried to temper expectations, at least for the 2026 season. You don't find that often in introductory media conferences.Hafley admitted "it's going to take time." Sullivan spoke of a challenging journey ahead, though with a sunny conclusion."It's not going to be an easy road, but I think the journey is well worth going on, and we will do it together, and we will achieve together," he said. "When we get to the end of this thing and we hoist that trophy, we'll realize that we started at the bottom, we fought our way to the top, and it will be one of the more special moments of all of our lives. I have no doubt that we will get there."Starting at the bottom is accurate for this Dolphins team. Miami was in such bad salary-cap shape that after cleaning house, it will be paying more to players not on the roster than the players currently on the team. A staggering $179.2 million is allocated to dead cap hits, according to Spotrac. That is 58% of the adjusted salary cap. And next year, the Dolphins will still be on the books for $56.7 million in dead cap hits from Tua Tagovailoa and Bradley Chubb.Join or create a Yahoo Fantasy Football league for the 2026 NFL seasonMiami traded safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and safety Jaylen Waddle, arguably the two best players who remained on the roster. Among the Dolphins' free agents, 15 signed elsewhere, and expensive players such as Tyreek Hill and James Daniels were still available after the NFL Draft. Every outside free agent the Dolphins added except one was signed to a one-year deal, and the team signed only one outside free agent who will make more than $1.49 million, which is practically nothing in the NFL.The term "Year Zero" has been used by college football writer Bill Connelly, referring to a new coach who takes over a total and complete rebuild and is given the grace to survive a brutal season in which a win or two with some progress shown by the end is the only reasonable expectation. This is Year Zero for Hafley and Sullivan. They understood the assignment. They're in for a rough season, but with hopes of better days down the road.At least there's one reason to watch. The lone free agent the Dolphins splurged on was quarterback Malik Willis. Miami cut Tua Tagovailoa two years into what turned out to be a devastating, four-year, $212.4 million contract extension. Tagovailoa was never the same player after his latest concussion in Week 2 of the 2024 season. The Dolphins are carrying an NFL record dead-cap hit on Tagovailoa of $99.2 million, spread over two years, for him to not be their quarterback anymore. Hafley and Sullivan were familiar with Willis from their time with the Green Bay Packers and signed him to a three-year, $67.5 million deal. It's far from a guarantee that Willis will work out. He has six career starts. But it was a reasonable gamble for the best quarterback on the free-agent market.The problem for Willis is that other than running back De'Von Achane, who was singled out by the Dolphins as someone they refused to trade, there's nothing around him. The receiver room is stunningly thin. The offensive line could be one of the worst in the NFL again. Miami spent a good amount on Willis, but it will be very hard to evaluate him, given the lack of help he'll have.But it's something. There would be no reason to be excited for this Dolphins season otherwise. This is what the bottom looks like. There's a lot of work to be done. Don't say Hafley and Sullivan didn't warn you.Offseason gradeThe Dolphins need to be graded on a curve. New GM Jon-Eric Sullivan wasn't responsible for the mess he inherited. He had to clean everything up, from salary cap and culture standpoints. Trading Jaylen Waddle and Minkah Fitzpatrick and cutting Tyreek Hill and Bradley Chubb couldn't have been fun, but the Dolphins didn't have much choice. Finding enough cap space to sign Willis was impressive. There were surprising reports that Willis would get more than $30 million per season, a narrative likely being pushed by his agent, so to get him for three years and $67.5 million seemed reasonable. It's risky, but that's fine for a team in a complete rebuild. The three highest paid free agents to join Miami other than Willis were kicker Zane Gonzalez, punter Bradley Pinion and safety Lonnie Johnson, each at $1.49 million. The draft was fine, with Miami getting big offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor at No. 12, cornerback Chris Johnson at No. 27 and linebacker Jacob Rodriguez in the second round. Proctor could start his career at guard while Austin Jackson and Patrick Paul man the tackle spots. Miami took shots on receivers Caleb Douglas and Chris Bell (who is coming off a torn ACL) and tight end Will Kacmarek in the third round.It's hard to be too critical of Miami when a new regime practically started $179.2 million in the hole on the salary cap due to dead cap hits.Grade: CQuarterback reportMalik Willis turned six career starts into the fifth-highest contract, in terms of annual value, of any free agent who switched teams this offseason. Miami is betting on potential, and his skills are exciting.Willis was bad to start his career with the Titans, but with the Packers, he played well off the bench when needed. He made a lot of money in Week 17 last season, when he passed for 288 yards and a touchdown and rushed for 60 yards and two touchdowns against the Ravens.Willis could flop as a full-time starter, but it's not like the Dolphins are pinning any 2026 playoff hopes on him. And they should be in position to have a high pick in a quarterback-rich 2027 NFL Draft, whether or not Willis works out."This guy's got all the traits in the world," Dolphins GM Jon-Eric Sullivan said. "He's got an elite arm. He's a very, very good athlete. He's a big, strong, powerful body. He can take the punishment, make plays with his legs, attack all levels of the field. It's just a matter of, I think, taking care of the ball and making good decisions and getting more fluid, playing the position down in and down out, week in and week out."Quarterback Malik Willis joins the Dolphins after two seasons as the Packers' backup. (Amy Beth Bennett/South Florida Sun Sentinel/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)Odds breakdownFrom Yahoo's Ben Fawkes: "The Dolphins are tied with the Arizona Cardinals for the NFL's lowest win total (4.5) and have the second-worst odds (10-to-1) to make the postseason. Miami will have a new starting QB in Malik Willis, but who is his No. 1 wideout? The Dolphins have made the playoffs only twice since 2018; this season seems very unlikely to be the third. In other words, it's a rebuilding year in Miami."Yahoo's fantasy takeFrom Yahoo's Scott Pianowski: "Other than De'Von Achane, the Dolphins are essentially a fantasy wasteland. Achane is the only player likely to command a top-100 pick, and the receiver room is lacking impact players. But let's leave the light on for new QB Malik Willis. Although Willis has just six NFL starts to his name, he averaged a handy 44.8 rushing yards per game in those starts, with six overall rushing touchdowns. In any format in which you need to roster two or three quarterbacks, Willis makes sense as a plausible upside pick in the later rounds, no matter what his passing stats wind up being. Running quarterbacks are a gift from the fantasy gods."Stat to rememberThe Dolphins' defense was a bottom-10 unit in just about every category last season. It was 24th in points allowed, 24th in DVOA, 25th in EPA (expected points added) allowed per play, 29th in success rate allowed per play, tied for 26th in yards allowed per pass, tied for 27th in yards allowed per rush and 29th in passer rating allowed. Now take that defense and remove safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, a three-time All-Pro, and pass rusher Bradley Chubb, who led the team with 8.5 sacks. New head coach Jeff Hafley is a good defensive coach, and that will help, as will highly drafted rookies Chris Johnson and Jacob Rodriguez. But it's hard to figure how Miami won't be a bottom-10 defense again.Burning question: How much can the Dolphins ride De'Von Achane?The Dolphins' current projected starters among pass catchers are Jalen Tolbert, Tutu Atwell, Malik Washington and Greg Dulcich. None of them has more than 610 yards in a season, and the four have fewer than 4,000 career yards combined.It was odd that the Dolphins steadfastly refused to consider trading Achane, but without him, Miami's offense might look like it belongs in the MAC. Also, the Dolphins might've figured out that elite running backs are actually a good value in today's NFL, as they signed Achane to a four-year, $64 million deal that is cheap compared to some recent receiver contracts. There will be the temptation to give Achane as many touches as he can handle, but he's just 191 pounds, and the Dolphins want him to be a building block for years. It might not be wise to give him 350 or 400 touches when the playoffs are nowhere close to a realistic goal, and they want him to still be in his prime when the rest of the team is ready to contend. But how can the Dolphins resist overworking their only dynamic skill-position player?Best-case scenarioLast season, the Saints looked miserable on paper. But first-year head coach Kellen Moore had his team playing hard despite a rough start, and it finished well, providing hope. There could be a similar story in Miami. While most of the players currently on the roster probably won't be around in a few years, if Hafley can have them playing hard all season, that would be a good sign. The Dolphins could find that Willis' small-sample success translates over a full season, and then they'd have an exciting quarterback who is just 27 years old. Nobody is expecting a miraculous playoff push from the Dolphins. But tangible progress would be nice.Nightmare scenarioAs much as NFL team owners can understand that the roster needed to be torn to bits and a 1-16 or 2-15 season is the most likely outcome, it's another thing to live through it. If Willis is bad, the Dolphins turning in one of the worst seasons in NFL history is on the table. It doesn't help that they have the second-toughest schedule in the NFL, based on sportsbooks' win totals (Miami's schedule was tied for third-easiest last season, via DVOA). Would club owner Stephen Ross understand that Hafley and Sullivan aren't responsible for this mess and exercise some patience? It's not like Ross has a great track record as an owner. If the Dolphins end up as one of the worst teams in the NFL, Willis looks overmatched as a full-time starter and Ross gets impulsive, another restart to the rebuild might happen. Try selling that to the fan base.The crystal ball says …The Dolphins were smart to hit reset. What would've been the point in restructuring a bunch of contracts to finish with five or six wins at most? That would have been ridiculous, especially with a strong 2027 NFL Draft coming up. Tanking never takes the form of telling players to not do their best. It looks like this, with a roster straight out of "Major League" and some lineups that will look like the second half of preseason games. The Dolphins will likely have to figure out if they want to take a quarterback with a top-three (possibly first overall) pick in the 2027 draft, trade that pick for a massive haul or use it on a great non-quarterback prospect such as receiver Jeremiah Smith. That decision will depend largely on Willis' performance. But nothing he does this season is going to help the Dolphins all that much. At least they get to face the Jets twice.

CROMWELL, Conn. (AP) — The PGA Tour has approved a major shakeup to its model that effectively creates two tours, expanding the field for the elite tier and cutting in half prize money for the secondary tier.The new model is to start in 2028 with several details still to be finalized, including which of the roughly 15 tournaments will be part of the “Championship Series” and the 20 events that will want to be part of the lesser “Challenger Series.”The PGA Tour boards on Monday afternoon approved the recommendations from the Future Competition Committee, which has been working on a new plan since it was formed last August.Tiger Woods was appointed chairman of the committee. He was arrested on a DUI charge in Florida in late March — painkillers were found in his pocket but no alcohol in his system — and sought treatment outside the country. He returned in time for the board approval.CEO Brian Rolapp was to discuss the changes Tuesday morning at the Travelers Championship.Rolapp preached “scarcity, simplicity and parity” when he took over last summer, and those pillars have become more clear. The season will be shorter — approximately February through August with some scheduled weeks off — without taking away playing opportunities. The $20 million signature events for 72 players now will be part of the Championship Series and expanded to 120 players on average. Players are not required to play them all and those tournaments will not have sponsor invitations or an alternate list. There will be a 36-hole cut.The Challenger Series will be a path for players to earn their way to the top level. Those fields will be about 144 players, and Rolapp said purses would be at least $4 million. This year, all but three regular non-signature events had prize funds of at least $9 million.Except for about seven times during the season, the Championship and Challenger Series tournaments will be held the same week. Rolapp said on the occasion of a week off for the elite circuit, the Challenger Series event would be elevated.Rory McIlroy last week referred to the secondary tier as a “glorified Korn Ferry event,” referring to the tour's developmental circuit. “I just think there's going to be certain events that might lose their status if a sponsor doesn't pony up $30 million,” McIlroy said.Each tour will have a separate points standings and there is no plan for players to move up to the Championship Series during the season unless they were to win twice.The Championship Series eligibility would be determined by the top 90 players from the previous year, the top 20 players from the Challenger Series and other exemption categories for tournament winners, injuries or career milestones.The other big change is the “introduction of match play” in the postseason and a Tour Championship that will move around to prestigious courses instead of returning to East Lake in Atlanta each year, as it has done since 2004. Those details are still being worked out.As for the fall, the PGA Tour is moving toward a separate series of four to six tournaments in which top performers can earn their way back to the Championship Series. The tour said it still has plans for the Korn Ferry Tour, PGA Tour Americas and the PGA Tour University ranking system that creates places for top college players. Finishing in August would give the elite players time to consider playing overseas, such as premier European tour events or the Australian Open. The PGA Tour recently became partners with Golf Australia without co-sanctioning the century-old event.___AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf

Dec 2, 2023; Detroit, MI, USA; Toledo Rockets head coach Jason Candle puts on his head set before the MAC Championship game against the Miami RedHawks at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images Over the weekend, the UConn Huskies added three new 2027 recruits to the roster, bringing the class total to 21 players.De’Shawn Wylie, SafetyWylie announced his commitment flip from Tulane to UConn on Instagram on Sunday. The Georgia native announced his verbal commitment to the Green Wave on March 18, 2026, and took an official visit on June 4. The 6-foot-1, 195-pound safety received 15 offers, including from Navy, Cincinnati, and Wake Forest. As for Connecticut, Wylie took his official visit on May 29.During the 2025 season, Wylie played in the secondary for Calvary Day HS (GA). In 14 matches, the highly-rated defensive back registered 56 tackles (24 solo, 32 assisted), four tackles for loss, and an interception. Wylie is considered a dynamic player who can play at safety, nickel, or corner.Curtis “Curt” Ellis Jr., Wide ReceiverEllis Jr. announced his verbal commitment to UConn on X on Saturday night. The Blountstown, Florida native received 21 offers, including from Georgia Tech, Cincinnati, and Mississippi State.In the wideout’s 2025 season with Blountstown HS (FL), Ellis Jr. played on both sides of the ball. Offensively, the 5-foot-11, 165-pound receiver hauled in 17 receptions for 317 yards and six touchdowns, averaging 18.6 yards per catch in 13 games. In the backfield, Ellis Jr. rushed for 293 yards for five endzone appearances and accumulated 12.7 rushing yards per attempt. Between the team’s 2024 and 2025 campaigns, the dynamic player tallied a total of 83 carries for 892 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns.Defensively, Ellis Jr. racked up a combined total of 27 tackles (17 solo, 10 assisted). As for special teams, the soon-to-be senior saw 7 kickoff returns for 172 yards. Compared to his sophomore year, he ran back 17 kickoff returns for 511 yards. While Ellis Jr. can play many positions, UConn is expected to use him as a wide receiver.Football is not the only sport Ellis Jr. plays, as he participated in five basketball games in the 2025 season, contributing 7.6 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. The Florida native also runs track and recorded a 10.5-second 100-meter, a 21.9-second 200-meter, and a 49.8-second 400-meter in the 2026 stretch.Raymond Liggins III, Wide ReceiverLiggins III announced his verbal commitment to UConn on X on Monday. The Illinois native received 13 offers, including from Kentucky, Miami, Missouri, Tennessee, and Vanderbilt.Before transferring to The Peddie School (NJ) and reclassifying to the 2027 class, the 5-foot-10, 165-pound receiver played for Simeon HS (IL). In the 2025 season, Liggins III lined up as both a receiver and a running back. In 10 games, the senior rushed for 50 yards in 12 attempts and hauled in 20 receptions for 393 yards and six touchdowns. The wideout averaged 19,7 yards per catch. On special teams, the 2027 prospect returned three kickoff returns for 39 yards. While the dynamic player can have an impact in multiple positions, he is expected to play wide receiver for Connecticut, as WR coach Kerry Dixon II recruited him.

Chicago (40-37) has now had two unscheduled days off ahead of the three-game road trip to New York (34-43). Monday's series opener between the two was postponed, so the Cubs and Mets try again at Citi Field on Tuesday.Chicago is 6-3 in the last nine games and starting to turn the corner in June. The Cubs are 8-9 overall this month and ranks middle of the pack in ERA, BA, OBA, and most categories. The one area that the Cubs stand out is their plate discipline. Chicago has the third-most walks (72) and the fifth-fewest strikeouts (136). Chicago swept the Mets earlier this year and outscored the Mets, 18-9.New York is coming off two straight losses to Philadelphia and were outscored 25-11 in the series. The Mets surrendered 21 runs in the last two games and have the fourth-worst ERA (5.79) over the last week. In that same span, New York ranks eighth in batting average (.266), but has the second-fewest extra bases hits (5).Let’s dive into the matchup and find a sweat or two.We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch first pitch, odds, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.Follow Rotoworld Player News for the latest fantasy and betting player news and analysis all season long.Game details & how to watch Cubs at MetsDate: Tuesday, June 23, 2026Time: 7:10 PM ESTSite: Citi Field City: Flushing, NYNetwork/Streaming: MLB TVNever miss a second of the action and stay up-to-date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day MLB schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game with every out.Odds for the Cubs at the MetsThe latest odds as of Tuesday:Moneyline: Chicago Cubs (+100), New York Mets (-120)Spread: Mets +1.5 (-197), Cubs -1.5 (+162)Total: 8.0Probable starting pitchers for Cubs at MetsTuesday's pitching matchup (June 22): Kodai Senga vs. Edward CabreraCubs: Edward Cabrera 2026 stats: 67.1 IP, 4-4, 5.21 ERA, 1.40 WHIP, 61 Ks, 25 BBMets: Kodai Senga2026 Stats: 24.0 IP, 0-5, 9.00 ERA, 1.88 WHIP, 28 Ks, 17 BBWho’s Hot? Who’s NotThe Cubs’ Pete Crow-Armstrong is hitting .286 with 83 hits, 16 home runs and 40 RBI over 290 at-batsThe Cubs’ Dansby Swanson is hitting .183 with 44 hits and 66 strikeouts over 240 at-batsThe Mets’ Juan Soto is hitting .301 with 66 hits, 17 home runs, and 38 RBI over 219 at-batsThe Mets’ Marcus Semien is hitting .219 with 61 hits and 65 strikeouts over 279 at-batsRotoworld still has you covered with all the latest MLB player news for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!Top betting trends & insights to know ahead of Cubs at MetsThe Cubs are an 29-48 ATS, ranking second-worstThe Mets are 32-45 ATS, ranking fifth-worstThe Cubs are 40-36-1 to the OverThe Mets are 35-34-8 to the UnderThe Cubs are 15-22 ATS on the road, ranking fourth-worstThe Mets are 15-21 ATS at home, ranking seventh-worstExpert picks & predictions for tonight’s game between the Cubs and the MetsRotoworld Bet Best BetPlease bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the MLB calendar based on data points like past performance, player matchups, ballpark information and weather forecasts.Once the model is finished running, we put its projection next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.Here are the best bets our model is projecting for Tuesday's game between the Cubs and the Mets:Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Cubs on the Moneyline.Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Cubs at -1.5.Total: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Under on the Game Total of 8.0Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper)Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports)Trysta Krick (@Trysta_Krick)

Paul Revere wouldn't have had a chance against the Tartan Army.The recent Scottish takeover of Boston — they drained the city of its beer — left a significant impression on Patriots owner Robert Kraft.Via Nicole Yang of the Boston Globe, Kraft has informed NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell that the Patriots are interested in playing a regular-season game in Scotland.Scotland had not previously been mentioned as a potential site of an NFL game.It's another example of the overall impact of the ongoing World Cup. America is getting an extended glimpse of the intense passion that fans from other countries have for soccer. That's the feeling into which the NFL is hoping to tap through its ongoing global experiment.And while a certain amount of that vibe can be captured by exporting domestic teams to foreign soil for one-off games, the deeper message is unmistakable. To truly attract the intensity that soccer fans from other countries have brought to the United States, the NFL needs to put franchises in other countries.The pie-in-the-sky outcome would entail dropping eight new teams beyond our borders. A four-team Atlantic division could be put in one conference, and a four-team Pacific division could be added to the other. Forty total teams. Ten four-team divisions.That would be a big swing for Big Shield. It also could be exactly what the NFL needs to give American football the kind of international lift the league craves.And, if/when an NFL team from another country has a big game in the U.S., thousands of fans from that country could do what thousands of fans from other countries are currently doing.

A gay makeup artist has the internet in hysterics after pointing out that a far-right troll used an image of him for a meme trying to celebrate conventional masculinity. “Some of you will remember the idiotic far right stole an image of me to make a meme for them,” Anthony Gordon recently wrote on Threads. “What they don’t know is I’m a far left gay liberal man lol. Bozos!” Related Why do straight guys have sex with men? The meme depicts a photo of Gordon, who has large muscles and appears to be a fitness guru based on his social media. The overlaying text declares, “Remember Boys, They keep calling us ‘Far-Right’ When in reality we have been ‘Right-So-Far.'” Insights for the LGBTQ+ community Subscribe to our briefing for insights into how politics impacts the LGBTQ+ community and more. Subscribe to our Newsletter today | Screenshot Gordon is not only gay, but he has in the past talked to LGBTQ Nation about being in a gay throuple and his Instagram bio describes him as “happily polyamorous.” “I’m so lucky to have two incredible men in my life,” Gordon told LGBTQ Nation last year, “and I’m proud that we realized we didn’t have to force ourselves into heterosexist norms. I feel it’s important that we share our story as a throuple. I think we’ll be seeing a lot more polys in the near future, as baby boomers get older and realize we all need to take care of each other.” Between his artistic side and his love for fitness, Gordon is exactly the type of man conservatives decry, one who can’t be siloed by the traditionally masculine or feminine. His personal social media accounts depict him showing off his “masculine” body and love of fitness. Meanwhile, his professional page displays his work on the faces of celebrities like Leighton Meester and Paris Jackson. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anthony (@surfbearla) Gordon’s followers found the troll’s mistake wildly entertaining, with many pointing out that the far-right often co-opts pieces of queer culture without realizing it, such as the president’s obession with “YMCA,” a song pivotal to queer culture. “At least they revealed they find you the picture of masculinity!” one user responded on Gordon’s post. Another joked that “the far-right is a gaggle of closeted, thirsty, bear hunters.” A third user boiled it down to simply calling them “mind numbingly stupid” while another said, “The irony is delicious.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anthony Gordon (@themakeupmanofficial) The far-right has long been obsessed with perpetuating stereotypical forms of masculinity to the point of absurdity. While campaigning, the president and vice president positioned themselves as “strongman” candidates who will “protect” women by upholding conservative gender roles. The entire right, it seems, has exploded with denigrations of so-called “beta” males and praise for traditional versions of “alpha males.” Fox host Jesse Watters is a consistent perpetrator of this messaging, having once railed against former President Joe Biden for eating ice cream in public because it is not manly. Another time, he ranted about Biden drinking with a straw in public. “Joe Biden used a straw,” Watters said at the time. “I recommend that all men refrain from using straws. It’s unbecoming, the way a man’s lips purse, the size of the straws is too dainty, the way your fingers clasp on it, no, come on.” In April, a group of Fox News contributors defended the president’s tariffs by saying they will force American citizens out of white-collar jobs in research and engineering and into blue-collar factory and agricultural jobs, thereby making American men more masculine since being a factory worker is more masculine than being a scientist. Last year, anti-LGBTQ+ radio host and Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk called Barack Obama a “low testosterone soy boy” after the former president appeared in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to support Democratic presidential nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris. Kirk said Obama’s speech was “the most femboy, effeminate, low testosterone, soy boy approach on how to talk to men.” “You talk to men like you do in a football locker room, direct. You challenge them. You tell them what they ought to do,” Kirk continued. “You talk about duty. You talk about honor. You talk about the pursuit of greatness. He talks to them as if they are in a group therapy session with a bunch of middle-aged drug-addicted women.” Kirk also claimed “no real man” should vote for Harris because “she hates you, her agenda will belittle you, will disempower you.” He also added that Obama is “not exactly a great example of an American strong man.” Subscribe to the LGBTQ Nation newsletter and be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Peter Murrell, the husband of the former Scottish leader Nicola Sturgeon, was sentenced on Tuesday after he admitted to buying a bizarre range of items with the Scottish National Party’s money.

The congressional primaries in New York on Tuesday will answer key questions about the potency of super PACs and the extent of Zohran Mamdani’s influence.

The post World Cup Chant Not Racist Enough To Catch On appeared first on The Onion.

The post Thomas Pynchon Spotted For First Time In Years In Instagram Reels Comment Section appeared first on The Onion.

LOS ANGELES—In a desperate attempt to lower the production budget, director James Cameron confirmed Tuesday that the next Avatar film would be set entirely in a Pandora studio apartment. “Look, you can’t always get a blank check to do all the motion capture and underwater sets that you want, so I decided that the next chapter will focus on the modest but comfortable studio apartment Jake and Neytiri move into near the remains of the Hometree,” said the filmmaker, who explained that fan-favorite Payakan, a massive whale-like creature that made appearances in Avatar: The Way Of Water and Avatar: Fire And Ash, would relocate to the family’s bathtub for the remainder of the franchise. “I’m not getting any younger, and if painting Sam Worthington blue and shooting the whole thing on my iPhone means I can secure funding by tomorrow, so be it. Don’t worry, your favorite villains are still very much on the board, and without spoiling too much, Varang has ventured off from the Mangkwan Clan to become a brutal and unforgiving superintendent constantly botching repairs in the Sully home.” Cameron went on to reveal that he would further be reducing the film’s budget by marketing the whole thing himself with flyers. The post James Cameron To Lower Costs By Setting Next ‘Avatar’ Entirely In Pandora Studio Apartment appeared first on The Onion.

WASHINGTON—Imploring their colleagues across the aisle to be mindful of how the highly charged language might elevate national tensions, congressional Republicans urged Democrats Tuesday to tone down the rhetoric they used to quote President Donald Trump verbatim. “Temperatures are running high, and the last thing we need are hotheaded Democrats spewing hateful, inflammatory statements sourced directly from the president’s speeches,” said Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA), adding that there was already enough political violence in the country without stoking it further by taking words right out of the president’s mouth and repeating them in public. “We’re sitting in the hallowed halls of the Capitol, a place with a requisite decorum, and who knows how many shooters might be inspired to commit heinous acts after hearing Rep. [Alexandria] Ocasio-Cortez read the president’s latest Truth Social post word for word? It’s shocking—and honestly quite shameful—that my colleagues in the Democratic Party would stoop to such lows.” Johnson went on to slam Democrats for their “reckless and divisive” recitations of his own remarks on same-sex marriage. The post GOP Urges Democrats To Tone Down Rhetoric Used To Quote President Verbatim appeared first on The Onion.

It’s been a month of blockbuster trades for Browns and Bucks owner Jimmy Haslam. In the span of just a few weeks, Haslam traded Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams and now Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Miami Heat.Garrett and Antetokounmpo are two of the biggest stars in their respective sports, and Haslam’s teams are now without both players heading into next season.It turns out, Haslam was influenced by his previous dealings with Garrett when deciding whether to take the Heat’s offer for Giannis, or the Celtics’. They were two different packages, with the Heat offering more assets for the future, while the Celtics would’ve given up a proven star in Jaylen Brown.According to Kevin O’Connor of Yahoo Sports, Haslam took the Heat deal because he didn’t want to risk Brown asking for a trade the way Garrett and Antetokounmpo did from their respective teams.Sources say Bucks owner Jimmy Haslam was a driving force in taking the Heat deal for Giannis over Boston’s offer. Haslam didn’t want to risk Jaylen Brown wanting out of Milwaukee in a year after dealing with Giannis and Myles Garrett trade demands. Haslam wanted certainty, and…— Kevin O'Connor (@KevinOConnor) June 23, 2026It's been widely reported that the Browns refused to trade Garrett unless they were getting an established player in return. That player was Jared Verse, who was the centerpiece of the Rams' trade with the Browns. Cleveland demanded Verse (and more) in exchange for Garrett, but the Rams were reluctant to give up their young pass rusher until the very end of the negotiations. One would've thought Haslam would have wanted another established star like Jaylen Brown after acquiring Verse for Cleveland, but he opted to steer clear of another potentially unhappy star on his teams.This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Giannis Antetokounmpo trade: Did Myles Garrett deal sway Bucks owner?

Heat Central: Teams are now preparing to send offers for Jaylen Brown after Celtics strikes out on Giannis, Per @WindhorstESPN “What I expect to happen, is a bidding war for Jaylen Brown. In the most recent days, teams have been preparing for this eventuality… I think it’ll take time to play out, but if there is a draft pick involved, it could happen today” We got Giannis and Blew up Boston all in onex.comThis article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Teams preparing for 'bidding war' for Jaylen Brown after Celtics miss on Giannis

Get Up: “The Celtics and Jaylen Brown will have hard conversations moving forward about the fallout from a trade that didn't happen. ... You've gotta get a deal done if you're the Celtics." — @ShamsCharania on what the Giannis trade to Miami means for Jaylen Brownx.comThis article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “The Celtics and Jaylen Brown will have hard …

The Bucks still have work to do, as league sources say it remains unclear if Tyler Herro will remain with the team. While there is interest in making the Milwaukee native part of the his hometown’s program, sources say the Bucks will also listen to offers for the 26-year-old former All-Star. Herro is believed to have a robust market, with the Detroit Pistons known to be among the many teams interested in him. Since this trade won’t be finalized until July 6, it remains possible for additional teams to take part in its final construction.New York TimesThis article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: The Bucks still have work to do, as league sources say …

Heat Central: Brian Windhorst says Norman Powell will be GONE, unless he takes a massive pay cut: “They’re gonna lose their All Star, Norman Powell. Unless he takes a crazy discount. He’s gonna be gone… Andy Ellisburg their GM, is superior at his job. Erik Spoelstra, their developmental staff, I’m betting on the Heat. Just not in 2026-2027”x.comThis article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Windhorst says Norman Powell will be GONE, unless he …

The Tennessee Christian Preparatory School in Cleveland will have to pay gay teenager Morgan Armstrong $10,000 in a settlement approved on Monday, after the school blocked her from graduating and withheld her diploma after she came out on Facebook. On April 23, 2025, Armstrong posted an image of her and her girlfriend on a beach and told her followers to comment on her post because “I have some ruthless Trump supporting ‘jesus’ mfs on there.” Related 2 cities defy Gov. Ron DeSantis’ anti-rainbow orders by creatively displaying their Pride colors Soon afterward, the school summoned Armstrong and her parents to a meeting where principal Kylie Machacek and head of schools Jared Tilley accused her of making “vulgar and disrespectful” remarks about the school. Machacek and Tilley gave her a copy of the request she made to her social media followers. The school also gave her a letter banning her from campus, all school events, and the school’s commencement ceremony. The school threatened to withhold her diploma and to send copies of her social media posts to colleges and universities if she continued to “slander” the school or its members online. Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Her family then sued the school. “Morgan did not write anything about the school at any time,” said Daniel Horwitz, the Armstrongs’ attorney. “She didn’t post anything about the school, and the private message was not about the school.” While the school initially backtracked on its threat to withhold her diploma, it settled on Monday with Armstrong’s family, WSMV reported. As part of the settlement, the school is prohibited from making disparaging remarks about Armstrong to colleges and universities. “School is a place where every student is entitled to feel welcome, accepted, and supported. It is not a place where any administrator should feel comfortable disciplining or threatening kids for being gay,” Horowitz told WSMV. “We were proud to represent Morgan and her family in this righteous lawsuit, and we are thrilled to have prevailed on their behalf. We hope Morgan’s bravery will inspire others to stand up for themselves the way that she did.” Subscribe to the LGBTQ Nation newsletter and be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Nature, Published online: 23 June 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-01812-1The scientific community awaits a patent for recombinant DNA technology, and experimentation with an anaesthetic from puffballs, in our weekly dip into Nature’s archive.

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Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to prioritise player welfare and ensure centrally contracted cricketers get at least one month of uninterrupted rest every year.His comments come after India completed a 3-0 ODI series sweep over Afghanistan, shortly after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season.Gavaskar acknowledged the role the BCCI has played in supporting developing cricket nations such as Afghanistan, Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka through bilateral series. However, he said the health and fitness of Indian players should remain a priority despite a busy cricket calendar.Writing in his column for Mid-Day, Gavaskar said: "Yes, BCCI is like the elder brother to countries like Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, and Sri Lanka, and have always tried to help them grow on the field and boost their finances by touring these countries. However, our cricketers’ health and fitness are also crucial and there should be a clear month’s rest for our players in the year. India is blessed with talent and so you can rotate the players but that is cheapening the India cap. The cap mustn’t be given because a player replaces the undroppable player who is rested. It has to be earned."The former opener also questioned the growing practice of resting senior players because of workload management. According to Gavaskar, India should field its strongest available side whenever possible.He pointed to India's recent Test against Afghanistan, where Shubman Gill and KL Rahul scored centuries.“In the Test against Afghanistan who have been honest triers but nothing more, Shubman Gill and KL Rahul scored centuries, and Manav Suthar made an impressive debut. Jasprit Bumrah was rested but wouldn’t he have liked to have added a fifer or a tenfer to his career record against this team. When India is playing, then the best team must play, unless there are injuries of course. But this resting because of workload must be avoided as much as possible. Have a look at the calendar and you will see that India is playing every month somewhere or the other."Gavaskar clarified that he supports more opportunities for younger players through India A and Under-19 cricket, but believes senior players should get a proper break from the game.“Yes, by all means have ‘A’ team and U-19 matches so that young players get the opportunity and the experience, but please spare our elite players and ensure they as a team and not just as individuals get at least a month’s break in the year."He added that the current schedule cannot be changed but suggested future planning should include a mandatory break for players and even fans.“This year’s schedule is already done and nothing can be changed but since the thinking is to have the IPL start and finish early next year is there, then please add a month’s rest to not just the players but the fans of Indian cricket."India's next assignment is a two-match T20I series against Ireland in Belfast before the team travels to England for five T20Is and three ODIs beginning on July 1.`

Who is Yaxel Lendeborg's girlfriend? Meet Tacarra Shyann and her relationship timeline with NBA Draft prospect originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.While NBA fans are focused on where Yaxel Lendeborg will hear his name called during the 2026 NBA Draft, many have also become curious about the woman who has been by his side throughout his basketball journey.The former Michigan star has become one of the most fascinating stories in this year's draft class. After a winding path through junior college, UAB and eventually Michigan, Lendeborg transformed himself into a projected first-round pick and one of the biggest risers in college basketball.As his profile has grown, so has interest in his personal life. Recent social media posts featuring Lendeborg and his girlfriend, Tacarra Shyann, have generated plenty of attention from fans ahead of draft night. A post shared by Athlete Vanity showing the couple together quickly made the rounds online, with fans celebrating the pair's relationship as one of the more wholesome stories surrounding this year's draft class.Here's what to know about Tacarra Shyann and her relationship with the future NBA player.Tacarra Shyann has been a familiar presence throughout Lendeborg's riseWhile Lendeborg's basketball journey has taken him across multiple levels of the sport, Tacarra Shyann has frequently appeared alongside him on social media throughout his rise.Potential first round pick, Yaxel Lendeborg and his girlfriend, Tacarra 🥹❤️ pic.twitter.com/fGedzn3jXy— Athlete Vanity (@AthleteVanity) June 23, 2026The couple has shared photos together during major moments in Lendeborg's career, including celebrations, family milestones and basketball achievements. As his popularity grew during Michigan's run to the Final Four and national championship game, fans began noticing Shyann appearing regularly in posts and videos surrounding the Wolverines star.Unlike many high-profile athlete relationships, the pair has largely kept details of their relationship private. However, their social media activity has offered occasional glimpses into their life together.Those moments have only increased public interest as Lendeborg prepares for the biggest night of his basketball career.The couple recently celebrated a major life milestoneOne reason fans have become increasingly interested in the relationship is because Lendeborg and Shyann recently welcomed a child together. Photos shared online earlier this year revealed the couple celebrating the arrival of their son, giving fans a look at a significant personal milestone occurring alongside Lendeborg's breakout basketball season.For many observers, that development adds another layer to Lendeborg's draft story. The 22-year-old isn't simply preparing to become an NBA rookie. He's also entering the next phase of life as a father while pursuing his professional basketball dreams.That balancing act has become part of what makes his journey resonate with so many fans.From overlooked prospect to NBA Draft hopefulLendeborg's path to the NBA has been anything but conventional. After beginning his college career in the junior college ranks, he developed into one of the nation's most productive players at UAB before transferring to Michigan. His lone season in Ann Arbor helped elevate him from a talented transfer into a legitimate NBA prospect.The versatile forward became known for his ability to impact nearly every area of the game, combining scoring, rebounding, playmaking and defensive versatility in a way few players in college basketball could match. That production helped fuel Michigan's remarkable season and pushed Lendeborg firmly into first-round conversations.Now, as NBA executives finalize their draft boards, attention has shifted toward where his professional career will begin.MORE: Why nobody can agree if Heat or Bucks actually won blockbuster Giannis Antetokounmpo tradeDraft night will be another milestone for the coupleThe NBA Draft is often about more than basketball. For players and their families, it represents years of sacrifice, uncertainty and perseverance finally paying off. That's especially true for someone like Lendeborg, whose route to this stage looked very different from many of the top prospects in his class.When his name is eventually called, one of the first people expected to celebrate alongside him will be Tacarra Shyann. After supporting him throughout his climb from under-the-radar prospect to projected NBA draft pick, she'll be there to witness the moment his lifelong dream becomes reality.And judging by the attention their relationship has received online this week, plenty of basketball fans will be watching right along with them.More NBA news:Why nobody can agree if Heat or Bucks actually won blockbuster Giannis Antetokounmpo tradeESPN picks a clear winner in Giannis Antetokounmpo trade between Bucks, HeatBucks' Giannis era ends as Heat make massive championship swingBulls land defensive anchor Nic Claxton in blockbuster three-team trade5 things Mavericks fans need to know about new head coach Dusty May

The end of LeBron James' illustrious NBA career is near. Where he spends it is the question. James, 41, is hitting unrestricted free agency ahead of his 24th season. The Los Angeles Lakers are favored to keep him the four-time MVP in town, but it's no guarantee as the fit with Luka Dončić hasn't always been seamless. So, where could James land if not L.A.? How about the city where he won his first NBA title: Miami.The Miami Heat just acquired Giannis Antetokounmpo in a blockbuster trade with the Milwaukee Bucks, pairing him with Bam Adebayo to form one of the league's most fearsome frontcourts. James' size, ball-handling and play-making would make the Heat significantly more dangerous. Let's get into whether a reunion is realistic.Could the Heat sign LeBron after Giannis trade?The Heat have a $15.5 million midlevel exception if Norman Powell or Andrew Wiggins depart. That could theoretically go toward James, who won two of his four MVPs in South Florida. However, the Miami Herald's Barry Jackson reports James returning to Miami is a "long shot." Here's who Miami could target instead.This article originally appeared on For The Win: Will Heat reunite with LeBron after Giannis trade?

Reds' roster getting healthier, Elly De La Cruz returning Tuesday versus Brewers originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.In the midst of a 10-game stretch against NL Central rivals, the Cincinnati Reds are preparing to welcome back front-line reinforcements.Beginning with shortstop Elly De La Cruz returning Tuesday against the Milwaukee Brewers at Great American Ball Park, the Reds appear to be adding roster depth for an important segment of their schedule. The first-place Brewers (47-29) earned a 2-1 victory over the last-place Reds (37-40) on Monday.Sidelined since June 1 with a strained right hamstring, De La Cruz engaged in a batting session against injured closer Emilio Pagan before Monday's series opener. Pagan (hamstring) also appears close to coming off the injured list.Reds' Elly De La Cruz, others returning to health Following a fifth-inning base hit against the Atlanta Braves on May 31, De La Cruz pulled up lame, forcing him out of the MLB lineup for 19 games. The injury ended his consecutive games played streak at 276, the franchise's sixth-longest since 1961. De La Cruz participated in three weekend International League games, going 2-for-8 with a home run and two RBIs for Triple-A Louisville. After opening with a homer on Friday, he went 0-for-3 with two strikeouts and an error Sunday. A two-time All-Star, De La Cruz compiled a .280 batting average and a 2.1 bWAR before tweaking his hamstring. Along with De La Cruz, who lined to right field during his first at-bat, Pagan, 35, faced two other batters Monday, delivering 25 pitches. "I'm attacking anybody who's in the box, to be honest," Pagan said, as reported by MLB.com. "But obviously, Elly is one of the best players on the planet and facing him is an honor. There's a lot of people that play baseball that would like to have the opportunity I just had. I don't take that lightly."On Monday, the Reds activated reliever Pierce Johnson (elbow) from the IL, optioning Zach Maxwell to Louisville.More MLB news:Nationals nightmare?: SP Foster Griffin facing Phillies streaking slugger Kyle SchwarberMets' Freddy Peralta delivers triple double as Phillies' Kyle Schwarber sets unique home run recordMarlins' Max Meyer discovers winning breaking-ball formula, remains unbeaten'Plunking king:' White Sox's Sam Antonacci taking beating at plate

Thousands of Scottish football fans, the Tartan Army, paraded through Miami on Monday in a distinctive homage to the local Marlins baseball team. Starting in Little Havana, supporters donned kilts, Scotland jerseys, and cone hats, chanting about 'super' John McGinn and Steve Clarke. Their march from the Ball & Chain bar to LoanDepot Park was met with enthusiasm by Miami locals.With the arid Miami weather, some Scots opted for the signature “taps aff” look, with the scent of an abundance of sun cream and lager in the air.Scotland fans outside LoanDepot Park after marching to the stadium for the Miami Marlins Major League Baseball game. (Reuters)The Leitch family were one of hundreds of families from Scotland to take part in the march.The family of four, comprised of Alan, 51, Linn, Alfie, six, and young Alan, 15, appeared delighted to take part.Mr Leitch said: “We wanted to be part of this. We nearly missed it.“This was all very last-minute for us, Linn was going to work and she phoned me to say, ‘we’re going to the States, our flight leaves in three and a half hours.”Mrs Leitch said: “The atmosphere here is absolutely amazing, just electric.A bagpipe band marches in the outfield of LoanDepot Park in Miami. (AP)“I’ve seen so many Scottish people here, and it’s so far away, it’s just incredible.”The Marlins put on their best performance against the Texas Rangers, but were ultimately beaten 4-3.The Scots were well-received by the US nationals at the game, who joined in with the Scotland chants and Scottish songs played throughout the game.Flags from all over the country could be seen, including saltires with various towns and cities emblazoned on them.Scotland fans celebrate before the MLB game between the Texas Rangers and the Miami Marlins. (Getty)Following the march and subsequent game, 26-year-old David Chalmers, of Edinburgh, said: “The march was amazing, but it was really hot!”Fifty-four-year-old Paul Hefferman, who is from Scotland but now lives in Louisiana, added: “The march was awesome, but it was hot. I’m acclimated to it now!”Mr Chalmers joked: “I am definitely not acclimated!”Legions of Scots then left the stadium, with the singing and laughter heard several streets away.

Carlos Santana, left, and producer Clive Davis pose with their Grammys at the 42nd Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, on Feb. 23, 2000. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon, File)2026-06-23T04:02:47Z The legendary music executive Clive Davis, who has died at age 94, was known for deep, trusting relationships with the artists he represented. It was a mutual respect that allowed him to shape their careers — and them to shape his.Here’s a look at how Davis worked with some of the varied acts — from the Grateful Dead to Alicia Keys — he shepherded during a six-decade career in the music industry.Janis JoplinDavis played an important role in shaping Janis Joplin’s career, but she arguably played an even bigger role in shaping his.After Davis became president of Columbia Records at age 35, he attended the Monterey Pop festival in California looking for new acts. He saw Big Brother & The Holding Company, featuring Joplin, and faced what he recalled in a 2022 speech as his first major decision as head of the label: “Should I personally sign an artist just based on my gut?” he said. “I did make that decision, and my life would never be the same,” Davis said.He persuaded Joplin to release an abbreviated edit of the single “Piece of my Heart,” ensuring it got radio play. Davis also pushed her to leave Big Brother and go solo.After Joplin’s death in 1970, Davis found her recording of “Me and Bobby McGee” amid the sessions for her album “Pearl,” released posthumously to great acclaim. Carlos SantanaDavis first signed Santana to Columbia Records in 1968, and the guitarist and singer became known for hits including “Black Magic Woman” and “Oye Como Va” — not to mention a legendary performance at Woodstock in 1969. Decades later, Davis reconnected with Santana, who was looking again for musical relevance.Davis suggested an album that would feature some of Santana’s original material as well as collaborations with contemporary artists. The result — 1999’s “Supernatural” — included the song “Do You Like the Way” with Lauryn Hill as well as hits “Maria Maria” with Wyclef Jean and “Smooth” with Rob Thomas. The record won eight Grammys, tying a record set by Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.”In a social media post, Santana said Davis “believed in Santana from the beginning, and years later he believed in us again.” Read More Bruce SpringsteenDavis signed a 22-year-old Springsteen to Columbia Records in 1972. Davis recalled believing that Springsteen was far more than a Bob Dylan copycat, but that he could be a “poet warrior” and one of the best performers ever.After Springsteen turned in his debut album, Davis told him to try again: It didn’t have any singles. Springsteen took the advice to heart and wrote two new tracks: “Blinded by the Light,” which was later turned into a hit by Manfred Mann, and “Spirit in the Night.” In an appearance on the “Late Show” with David Letterman, Davis recalled giving the Boss early advice on his live performance, telling him that when he has a large stage to play on, he should use it rather than just stand still.“He changed my life when he signed me to Columbia Records,” Springsteen wrote in a social media post. Whitney HoustonThere is no artist Davis was more closely associated with than Whitney Houston. He met her at a New York club called Sweetwater’s, where the 19-year-old was performing with her mother Cissy Houston, a celebrated gospel and soul singer. She sang “The Greatest Love of All,” a song Davis had previously commissioned for the Muhammad Ali movie “The Greatest.”“As soon as she started singing that song, I was stunned,” Davis recalled in a CNN interview in 2022.He signed her to Arista in 1983, and the label took a deliberate two years to find the right songs and producers for her debut album, one of the biggest ever. She went on to become the label’s best-selling artist — and one of the most influential singers in history. Houston’s relationship with Davis was so close that her team insisted on a “key man” clause, giving her the right to leave her contract if Davis ever left Arista. Davis played a key role in shaping the soundtrack to Houston’s 1992 film “The Bodyguard,” insisting on keeping a minimalistic arrangement and her iconic a capella intro to her transcendant Dolly Parton cover “I Will Always Love You.” The Grateful DeadDavis played the long game with the Grateful Dead. He had wanted to sign the band — or at least singer and lead guitarist Jerry Garcia — on Columbia Records since the late 1960s, but the Dead were under contract with rival Warner Bros. Instead, Davis signed the New Riders of the Purple Sage, a psychedelic country band that featured Garcia. When the Dead were looking for a new major label in the late 1970s, Davis landed them on his recently founded Arista Records.Late Dead guitarist Bob Weir observed that Davis was “the one suit we weren’t distrustful of.” In concert, he sometimes changed the lyrics to the Dead standard “Jack Straw” from “We used to play for silver, now we play for life” to “We used to play for acid, now we play for Clive.”Davis took a patient approach to the band’s studio work, telling them they should record only when they were ready to record, author Blair Jackson wrote in his biography of Garcia. The Dead, famously ambivalent about commercial success, eventually repaid him with their biggest hit, 1987’s “Touch of Grey.” Alicia KeysKeys was 15 when she signed with Columbia Records in 1996. Creative differences soon emerged, with the label insisting on hiring teams of professionals to work with her. Keys would later recall feeling disrespected.Davis, who was splitting with Arista, helped get her out of her Columbia contract and eventually signed her to his new label — J Records — in 2000. She played him some of her songs at his office, and he sensed her star power and knew she should have creative control over her songs.Her debut album — “Songs in A Minor” — was a masterpiece and won five Grammys in 2002. But Davis noted that her music could not be easily categorized, and as a result it was at risk of not getting the airplay it deserved. In a 2002 interview, he recalled calling up Oprah Winfrey and asking her to do a show featuring Keys. Winfrey agreed — and the single “Fallin” took off.In a social media post, Keys called Davis “the visionary who transformed dreams into reality, leaving an indelible mark on music and lives worldwide.”Kenny GThere wasn’t much of a market for instrumental music in the early 1980s, but Davis saw the soft jazz saxophonist Kenny G in a club and knew he had something. He signed Kenny G to Arista in 1982, and he went on to become the best-selling instrumental artist of all time.In an interview with CNN on Monday, Kenny G — as he often has — credited Davis with his success. Davis, he said, knew when to let the artist steer the ship and when to step in with direction. With Kenny G, that meant not telling him how a sax solo should go, but participating by finding singers, such as Michael Bolton, to pair with him.“I wouldn’t be standing here if it wasn’t for him taking chances on me,” he said.

Madison Square Garden compiled a list of activists who have publicly criticized the venue’s use of facial recognition technology, putting their tweets and comments into a document that was then accessible to other people inside the company, 404 Media has found.The news shows that MSG, operated by Jim Dolan who has garnered a reputation for being pernicious against his perceived enemies, is not only deploying controversial facial recognition technology but keeping track of specific people who take issue with it. The document was included in a 45GB cache of data hackers stole from MSG and posted online this month, which 404 Media then downloaded and reviewed.“The wake of a data breach would be a good time for Madison Square Garden to stop subjecting its patrons to biometric surveillance,” Adam Schwartz, privacy litigation director at the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), and one of the people included in the document, told 404 Media.The document, titled “Facial Recognition Activists.docx” and included in a folder named “Activists,” lists three people who have criticized MSG’s use of facial recognition: Evan Greer, director of digital rights group Fight for the Future; Albert Fox Cahn, founder and executive director of the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project (STOP); and the EFF’s Schwartz. All three of the activists have been quoted in major media articles discussing MSG’s facial recognition technology, including in NPR and The New York Times.In each section, the document includes background information on the activist, their contact information if available, their social media handles and follower count, then quotes each have previously said about MSG’s facial recognition program. The document also includes screenshots of several of Greer’s relevant tweets. One says, “Hey New Yorkers, who are the coolest people on the NYC city council who might wanna introduce a facial recognition ban like the one in Portland, OR that would stop Madison Square Garden from using biometric surveillance?” 💡Do you know anything else about facial recognition? I would love to hear from you. Using a non-work device, you can message me securely on Signal at joseph.404 or send me an email at joseph@404media.co.At the time of the screenshot, Greer had posted the tweet 16 hours prior. The document is dated as December 23, 2022, 1pm. It was available inside an MSG SharePoint instance, suggesting it was available to people other than the author.“The fact that MSG is creating dossiers on activists who say things they don't like shows exactly why private companies should not be allowed to use dangerous surveillance technologies like facial recognition,” Greer told 404 Media in an email. “Large companies can and will use surveillance tech to punish critics, exploit workers, and consolidate power, with no regard for the basic rights they trample in the process.”In the document, MSG misgenders Greer. “Given their recent treatment of a trans woman trying to use the bathroom in their venue, I'm also not surprised they misgendered me,” Greer added, pointing to a case reported in a recent in-depth report from WIRED on MSG’s surveillance practices.It is not clear who wrote the document. MSG did not respond to a request for comment. MSG has deployed facial recognition technology since 2018 to identify people entering the venue. MSG’s facial recognition systems have been used to block entry to the stadium for all sorts of people. The list includes lawyers who work at law firms in litigation with MSG, even if they are not part of the litigation themselves; and potentially a man who once made a shirt that criticized Dolan.In the recent WIRED investigation, the outlet reported security chief John Eversole visited the websites of more than 90 firms and fed photos of 1,200 lawyers into MSG’s facial recognition software.As Schwartz said in earlier media coverage about the technology: “It raises the question of what’s going to come next. Will companies use facial recognition to keep out all the people who have picketed the business or criticized them online with a negative Yelp review?”

We're in the dead of summer and the NFL offseason has slowed down significantly since free agency opened back in March. OTAs are in full swing and the rumor mill and hearsay machines are both churning. Basically, it's easy for player opinions to swing one way or the other right now. Yahoo analysts Scott Pianowski, Justin Boone and Joel Smyth go around the table revealing the players they've changed opinions on the most thus far this offseason.Join or create a Yahoo Fantasy Football league for the 2026 NFL seasonGive this Chargers' star a mulliganLadd McConkey's sophomore season was no fun, I get it. But it's largely an excused absence in my mind. The offensive line fell apart quickly, the target tree was congested, the play calling got stale. Everything appears fixed now — healthy line, trimmer target tree and a fresh OC in respected Mike McDaniel. McConkey showed difference-maker traits in the second half of 2024, and he can get back there. I'm prepared to draft him proactively. — PianowskiNew digs, new outlook for veteran QBKyler Murray struggled through the first five games in Arizona last year before suffering a Lisfranc foot sprain that sidelined him for the rest of the season. Even when he was on the field, Murray failed to finish inside the top 15 fantasy quarterbacks in any of his outings and watched as backup Jacoby Brissett helped Trey McBride and Michael Wilson reach career highs. Fortunately, Murray found an ideal landing spot with the Vikings.In Minnesota, he'll benefit from an upgraded environment in terms of coaching and his supporting cast. When you pair Murray's rushing ability with Kevin O'Connell's past success with veteran passers, it will give the 28-year-old (turns 29 in August) an excellent chance to become a fantasy starter once again. Don't forget, Murray was a top-12 fantasy QB on a per game basis in each of his six seasons before the disappointing 2025 campaign. Fantasy managers should expect a bounce-back year from Murray, who is firmly among the late-round QBs worth targeting. — BooneYear 4 might be the perfect time for this WR to take the next stepI've been growing scarily confident in Zay Flowers and his WR17 ADP. The Baltimore WR didn't live up to his full potential in 2025 and has yet to come close to a fantasy WR1 finish in his career, making it hard to buy in once again in Year 4. However, I believe his success as a player in 2025 ultimately went under the radar; he finished as the WR17 after his WR30 season the year prior. If you included his best game of the season in Week 18, that would jump up to WR13. Only games with Lamar Jackson? WR12. And it's only gotten better since the 2025 season wrapped.Ben Johnson's disciple Declan Doyle is taking over the Baltimore offense, giving Flowers an exciting opportunity to shine in a new offense that emphasizes play-action passing and pre-snap motion. In early reports, Rashod Bateman looks to still be the clear No. 2 WR over the rookies, meaning Flowers is by far and away the No. 1 option again with a declining Mark Andrews. Even in what was seen as a poor year from his QB last season, Flowers ranked third in yards per route with Jackson on the field, showing his WR1 potential is very reachable in 2026 with a new scheme. — Smyth

[BBC]Ghana had a troubled build-up to the World Cup after coach Otto Addo was dismissed following a string of poor results just 72 days before the start of the tournament. The experienced Carlos Queiroz was drafted in to take charge for his fifth successive World Cup following stints with Portugal and Iran. He will have been delighted with his team's start, a last-gasp victory over Panama raising hopes of a first appearance in the knockout stage since their famous run to the quarter-finals in 2010.BBC Sport takes a look at five key players England need to watch out for.Antoine Semenyo Antoine Semenyo has yet to replicate his goalscoring form at club level with Ghana [Getty Images]Club: Manchester City Age: 26 Position: Winger Caps: 35 Goals: 3When talking about this Ghana squad it would be remiss not to start with their star man, Manchester City winger Antoine Semenyo.He arrived at the World Cup fresh from finishing third in the Premier League's Golden Boot standings for 2025-26 after scoring 17 goals across spells at Bournemouth and Manchester City.He fitted in seamlessly at Etihad Stadium after his £65m January move and helped the club win two trophies, scoring the winning goal in the FA Cup final.Genuinely two footed, over the past two Premier League campaigns he has had 103 shots with his left foot and 95 with his right, and played equal minutes across both wings.It's therefore a real anomaly that he has only scored three goals in 35 internationals for Ghana, and just one in his past 28 caps.From non-league to the World Cup - the Semenyo storyCaleb YirenkyiMidfielder Caleb Yirenkyi was a national robot-building champion in his early teens [BBC]Club: Nordsjaelland Age: 20 Position: Midfielder Caps: 12 Goals: 2One of Europe's sought-after young midfielders, Yirenkyi added to his valuation when he scored a 94th-minute winner in Ghana's opening match against Panama.Former Black Stars coach Addo used the box-to-box midfielder out of position at right-back, but new boss Queiroz has restored the 20-year-old to the position in which he has excelled at club level. Among midfielders in the Danish top flight in 2025-26, Yirenkyi led the way for possession won in the opposition's final third (26) and ball recoveries (205), while he ranked third across all players for successful passes in the opposition half (881). A keen student as a child, he won Ghana's 2019 National RiSE Robotics Championship aged 13.Jordan Ayew Jordan Ayew (centre) has played for Aston Villa, Swansea City, Crystal Palace and Leicester City [Getty Images]Club: Unattached Age: 34 Position: Forward/Attacking midfielder Caps: 121 Goals: 34Ayew became Ghana's record cap holder in their opening match against Panama, overtaking the previous mark of 120 set by his brother Andre.When Jordan was made captain in 2025 he said it was "written in the stars," as he joined both his legendary father Abedi Pele and his brother in having led the Black Stars. Chasing his first World Cup goal at his third tournament, Ayew, 34, has scored 14 times in his past 22 caps - including a hat-trick in qualifying against Central African Republic.He actually scored more goals in qualifying for this World Cup (seven in 10) than he did for Leicester City in 2025-26 (six in 45). The Foxes released him after being relegated for the second successive season.Fifa World Cup 2026: What you need to know about GhanaWhen will an African side win the World Cup?Brandon Thomas-Asante Brandon Thomas-Asante (number 10) showed off his dance moves after Ghana's win over Panama [BBC]Club: Coventry City Age: 27 Position: Forward Caps: 9 Goals: 1The versatile forward, who can play anywhere along the frontline, forced his way into Ghana's World Cup squad after an impressive season at Coventry.He scored 13 goals in their Championship title-winning campaign, behind only Haji Wright among his team-mates.Born in Milton Keynes, Thomas-Asante came through their academy and played for the likes of Ebbsfleet, Oxford City and Salford City before moving to the Championship with West Brom and then the Sky Blues.He made an immediate impact in Ghana's opening game against Panama, coming off the bench to set up Caleb Yirenkyi's winner.He is renowned for his dance moves and used to perform in a street dance group. His initiation dance in front of the Ghana squad went viral.Kamaldeen SulemanaKamaldeen Sulemana scored his first goals for Southampton in a 4-4 draw against Liverpool [Getty Images]Club: Atalanta Age: 24 Position: Winger Caps 29 Goals: 1Sulemana was officially the fastest player at the Qatar World Cup after being clocked at 22.2mph. His former Southampton team-mate and renowned speed merchant Theo Walcott described him as the quickest player he ever played with.The left winger, who can also play as a centre-forward or playmaker, is known for his dribbling skills. But question marks have been raised about his end product. He last scored for club side Atalanta in February, and has only netted once in 29 caps for Ghana.He swapped the Championship for the Champions League when he left Southampton last summer to move to Italy.This article is the latest from BBC Sport's Ask Me Anything team.More questions answered...Who England and Scotland face in last 32 as it standsWhat are World Cup's red card suspension rules?BBC or ITV? Inside how World Cup broadcast picks are made

Credit: Detroit SportsNetMonday night’s game between the Detroit Tigers and the New York Yankees encountered an unusual delay in the bottom of the fourth inning, and Tigers announcers Jason Benetti and Andy Dirks made the most of it.The Yankees, led by second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr., noticed a dirt cam sticking up out of the ground in the infield.As Chisholm and company stepped on and kicked the dirt cam, the always entertaining Benetti and Dirks offered commentary from the perspective of the helpless dirt cam on the Detroit SportsNet broadcast.dirt cams have feelings too pic.twitter.com/JboNtqRCMR— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) June 22, 2026Benetti: “Hey! Guys! Guys! I’m just trying to do my job! No! Hey! What are we doing?! I’m just trying to work here!”Dirks: “Get away from me! Hey! Quit stepping on me! No! No! Ow! Ow!”Benetti: “Hey guys! How you doing?”Dirks: “Why you trying to cover me up? No! Help! Help!”Benetti: “No, I can’t see! Hey! I’m just trying to watch the game! This is an obstructed view seat now! It doesn’t say that on the ticket! What do I look like, a campfire?”This turned into a dirt-cam delay of more than six minutes.6 minute and 20 second delay because a camera was sticking up out of the ground pic.twitter.com/SZ9T4qKlqL— Talkin’ Yanks (@TalkinYanks) June 22, 2026The Tigers came through in honor of the beaten-up dirt cam — and in honor of the impassioned efforts of Benetti and Dirks — with a 5-3 win over the Yankees.Benetti — who’s also the voice of Sunday Night Baseball for NBC — and Dirks form a Tigers booth that has continued to rise in the annual Awful Announcing MLB local broadcaster rankings (as voted by readers). They blend sharp commentary with great personality and humor to create an enjoyable viewing experience for Tigers fans, even in a disappointing season like this one (Detroit improved to 34-44 with the win).The post Jason Benetti, Andy Dirks brilliantly play role of dirt cam vs. Yankees appeared first on Awful Announcing.

Diego Lopes has a knack for special moments.From UFC 300 to Noche UFC at the Sphere to UFC Freedom 250 at the White House, it's been a wild ride for a man who didn't reach the UFC until his 27th pro fight. But now it's time to create such memories, and perhaps greater ones, in a new landscape.Even though he's coming off a big win, Lopes (28-8 MMA, 7-3 UFC) is eying a move to lightweight – and says the promotion likes the idea, too."I want to move for 155 to make a couple of fights," Lopes told MMA Junkie on Monday. "I really like the idea more because I'm so honest. I just lost two times to Volkanovski. He's still here in the division. I don't think I have a shot for the title soon. So I don't care if I fight with a guy low in the rankings. I fight this two times, when I lost, for the belt. But I really like the idea for moving to 155. This week, I talked with the UFC about this. The UFC liked the idea, too. I just need to figure out what the best option is. I think in the top-five, all fights are a good one for me."The decision to move up has been considered for a bit. Lopes says the decision is multi-fold. He's a bigger featherweight, so not having to cut the calories or the weight is attractive to him. There also might be a more realistic route to the title, considering he's lost twice to current featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski. But also, the matchups at lightweight? Those could be a hell of a lot of fun for the fans, says Lopes."I think the most exciting guys," Lopes said. "If you see the top-five to the champion, the whole guys are exciting. I think they're the perfect matches for my style. I think everyone is so, so exciting. It makes me more hungry to move to 155 and make a great fight, because always when the people see I have one fight, the people expect a great, great fight. I think at 155 I have the guys with styles that make for a great show for everyone.""... I think I have the (body) type for 155. I'm tall. I'm 5-foot-11. I have a lot (of room) to put more weight on my body, too. I fight in 145. I need to cut out a lot of things. I can't lift a lot of weights. I can't drink a lot of supplements. I need to control a lot in my diet, to not gain weight. At 155, I can change a couple of things and work it different, too. I'm the same size for all the guys in the top-five. All the guys have the same size, like me. Maybe these guys are a little bit heavier but I don't care about that."This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Diego Lopes considers shifting weight classes with UFC's blessing

Women's T20 World Cup, Group 2, BristolScotland 131-7 (20 overs): Carter 72* (52); Kerr 3-17New Zealand 132-4 (18.2 overs): Sharp 62 (43), Halliday 41* (38)New Zealand won by six wicketsScorecard, TableDefending champions New Zealand eliminated Scotland and kept their hopes of a T20 Women's World Cup semi-final place alive with an impressive display in Bristol.The White Ferns appeared in control at the halfway point as Scotland struggled to just 131-7.Scotland were once again indebted to 21-year-old Darcey Carter, who has been one of the breakout stars of this tournament, for holding their innings together.The opening batter, who also hit a half-century against West Indies, struck an unbeaten 72 off 52 balls that included eight fours and one six. Sarah Bryce was the only other Scotland batter to offer any real support with 25 off 22 balls.Both New Zealand openers fell to catches at mid-on off the bowling of Kathryn Bryce and when Sophie Devine was bowled by Rachel Slater, they slipped to 26-3.However, with Scotland sensing an upset, Izzy Sharp and Brooke Halliday combined to steady New Zealand nerves and slowly wrestle back control.Sharp accelerated after reaching her half-century - lofting Slater for a straight six - before being bowled with her side one maximum from victory.Maddy Green reverse-swept a four off the first ball she faced and a leg-bye secured a six-wicket win with 10 balls to spare.New Zealand's final group game is against hosts England on 27 June (18:30 BST). They must win and hope other results go their way in order to progress to the semi-finals.Who needs what to qualify for Women's T20 World Cup semi-finals?How is UK heatwave impacting sport for players and fans?Brilliant Kapp leads South Africa past India

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"We probably ran out of almost every beer at some point, but it was a lot of fun."In the shadow of Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, Brandon Finnan, manager of the Cask 'n Flagon pub, is reflecting on the past fortnight.With the city hosting both of Scotland's first two World Cup matches since 1998, the Tartan Army descended in their tens of thousands.And venues like Brandon's enjoyed one of their busiest-ever spells."I think a lot of us took it for granted in a way," he said. "We didn't know what to expect really. We heard the Scottish were coming. And when they showed up, they showed up very deep!"Speaking for the city of Boston, we feel blessed. They've been amazing to us. They came in here. They've treated all the staff with nothing but respect. "They took time to understand how our tipping works, they cleaned up. And I think they brought a lot of happiness to the city when we needed it. So it was very nice to see."The city really needed this positive atmosphere right now, and I think it's brought a lot more than we expected, so we're all for it and we wish it would last longer."Such sentiments are widely held here, after the city's people seemed to take the Scots to their hearts.Such was the bond that was forged, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu signed a letter of intent to establish Boston and Glasgow as 'sister cities'.Meanwhile, the Boston Globe newspaper took out a full-page advert in honour of the Tartan Army."You came for the World Cup, but gave us something more," it read. "For a week, you turned train stations into singalongs, Fenway into a football ground, and an ordinary June into something we'll be talking about for years."Boston Red Sox President Sam Kennedy wrote to the Scottish FA thanking it for "something none of us will forget", after hundreds of fans visited Fenway Park for a regular-season baseball match on 14 June, lending the stadium a unique atmosphere."Kilts and Scottish flags filled our ballpark with a spirit that has no equivalent in American sport," he wrote. "The Tartan Army treated our home like their own, and we are better for it."How the Tartan Army captured the heart of BostonMiami romance, Billy Gilmour and a mince and tattie hot dogThe Dubliner was a popular haunt for Scotland fans in Boston [Getty Images]Most of the Scottish fans who remain in the US have now moved on to Miami for their final group match against Brazil on Wednesday (23:00 BST), replaced by between 10,000 and 15,000 England supporters before their game against Ghana on Tuesday (21:00 BST).So will the special relationship with British football supporters continue?"I think England plays more of a favourite's role, whereas Scotland is more of an underdog, so I think it'll be a little bit different," added Brandon, who has now replenished his stocks of beer."I think it'll be a little less wild. We've taken Scotland under our wings. We're in love with Scotland now, so we're on their side. "I think there's a lot of other teams that people here would vote for besides England. But I think Scotland definitely jumped the list coming here."The feeling is similar at The Dubliner pub in the city centre, which became a hub for Scotland fans during their stay."The Scots kind of really took us over," said manager Brian McDonnell."It's been nothing short of crazy, you know. They're an awesome crowd. "Very understanding that we were slammed, that we were all working long hours. So they're a great gang to have and it's sad to see them go, but I'm sure there'll be other people rocking up to take their place."When asked if England's fans will be afforded the same welcome, he added: "We won't maybe be hanging up an English flag outside as much as the Scottish flag, but they're still welcome and will still have a good time."On Monday night, footage appeared to show Marcus Mumford - lead singer of folk band Mumford & Sons - being booed during a gig at Fenway Park after jokingly blaming the rainy weather on Scotland.Indeed, chants of No Scotland, No Party could also be heard at one point. A sign perhaps, of the challenge England fans face to win over the city in the way that their Scottish counterparts managed.Some however, are confident that it can be done."We knew from the off Boston would be one of the great cities to visit at this World Cup," said Thomas Concannon, England Fans' Embassy lead at the Football Supporters' Association.Up to 15,000 England fans head to Dallas for World Cup openerThree police officers to accompany 10,000 England fans at World CupEngland & Scotland World Cup tickets on resale at inflated pricesEngland fans enjoy the party in Boston on Monday night [PA Media]"The culture fits perfectly for football fans, particularly those from England and Scotland."We were pleased to see how well received the Scotland fans were here and how good a time they had. We are sure that England fans will match the Scottish party atmosphere and be equally brilliant guests, minus the bagpipes."England have arrived in our thousands looking for a good time with our hosts and so far, that is exactly what we have seen, despite the weather, which currently feels typically British. "Boston and its locals have been incredibly welcoming and we're sure that will continue for the short time we are here."Back at Fenway Park, Frank Fishman, who runs the ticket office for the Red Sox, has a similar view."England and Scotland may be apples and oranges in terms of their football culture, but I don't believe the same can be said about the people culture", he said."I have interacted with British folks and I have nothing but high expectations of kindness and chivalry. "England may be more disappointed in a draw or a loss. For Scotland, what we have gathered is that they are happy to be here, the English want to bring it home. And that's OK."The beauty of this tournament is that pre-conceived notions are being broken down about people from inside and outside America alike. "People are getting a better perspective of Americans and we are getting a better perspective of people abroad."England v Ghana will be the fourth World Cup match staged at Boston Stadium [PA Media]The Group L tie at the Boston Stadium will be only the second meeting in history between England and Ghana [PA Media]World Cup fixtures and group standingsHow to watch the World Cup on the BBCEverything you need to know about the World Cup

The 2026 MLB All-Star Game is a little more than three weeks away. Players are making pushes to represent their respective leagues in Philadelphia. Certain players have pushed through early-season slumps while others are continuing to perform at elite levels. Entering Week 14, here are the top 10 relief pitchers in the league. MORE: MLB third base power rankings entering week 141. Mason Miller, San Diego PadresOct 1, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; San Diego Padres pitcher Mason Miller (22) delivers during the seventh inning against the Chicago Cubs during game two of the Wildcard round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn ImagesMiller is the undisputed top MLB relief pitcher. He ranks first in WHIP and ERA among MLB closers. He is second in saves among MLB relief pitchers.2. Cade Smith, Cleveland GuardiansThe electric closer leads MLB in saves. He is one of three MLB relief pitchers with at least 18 saves and no more than eight walks surrendered. He is headed to end the season with the most saves.3. Louis Varland, Toronto Blue JaysVarland has been one of the best stories of any MLB relief pitcher. Since taking over the closer role, Varland has been perfect in save chances and is one of three closers with an ERA and WHIP under 0.90. He is in contention for his first All-Star selection.4. Jhoan Duran, Philadelphia PhilliesDuran has been one of MLB’s top closers. Entering the week, he is in the top five in saves. His K/9 is one of the best among closers.5. Aroldis Chapman, Boston Red SoxBoston Red Sox pitcher Aroldis Chapman (44) reacts after a pitch is called a ball in the ninth inning of the MLB Opening Day game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Boston Red Sox at Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati on Thursday, March 26, 2026. The Reds lost the season opener, 3-0.Chapman is perfect in save chances and has an ERA and WHIP below 1.00. At 38 years old, he is still one of MLB’s best in the ninth inning of games. Aroldis Chapman will be one of the top relief pitchers available at the trade deadline.6. Jacob Latz, Texas RangersLatz is having a fantastic season as Texas’s closer. He ranks first in WHIP among MLB closers. He has the second-lowest batting average against among all MLB pitchers who have pitched at least 20 innings.7. Bryan Baker, Tampa Bay RaysBaker has solidified Tampa Bay’s ninth-inning role throughout the season. Entering the week, he ranks third in saves. He is one of three MLB relief pitchers with at least 18 saves and an ERA under 1.90.8. Dylan Lee, Atlanta BravesLee has been outstanding as one of Atlanta’s setup men. He is tied for third in holds. He has the lowest combined ERA and WHIP among MLB leaders in holds.9. Paul Sewald, Arizona DiamondbacksSewald has been a stalwart at the back end of Arizona’s bullpen. He is one of three closers with a WHIP below 0.75. Entering the week, he is tied for fourth in saves among MLB relief pitchers.10. Robert Suarez, Atlanta BravesSuarez is part of Atlanta’s bullpen that ranks first in MLB. He has been outstanding in his first season with the Braves. Entering the week, he is the only MLB relief pitcher with at least 10 holds and an ERA and WHIP below 0.90.— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —

CROMWELL, Conn. – Match play is coming to the PGA Tour Playoffs.The PGA Tour’s board of directors approved a series of sweeping changes on Monday that will go into effect for the 2028 season, including another facelift to its playoffs. For the first time, match play will be used to settle the winner of the Tour Championship beginning in 2028.That topic seemed dead in the water just last year when the Tour removed starting strokes but opted to stop short of a more radical move on the grounds that it didn’t make sense to play stroke play throughout the entire FedEx Cup season and then shift to match play for the finale.MORE: PGA Tour’s bold overhaul live updates: 2 tracks, fewer cards, radical finale shiftBut when Tour CEO Brian Rolapp came on board a year ago, he said he wanted to start with a blank sheet and make the playoff system easier to understand and more compelling.On Tuesday, the Tour announced that the Boards signed off on the introduction of match play into the postseason. “A new-look Tour Championship will be contested across a rotation of prestigious courses, many of which the PGA Tour would play for the first time,” the Tour said in a release.Shaking up the playoffs, which may include shrinking to two events, will include some venue shifts – from Memphis for the FedEx St. Jude Championship, rotating venues and cities for the BMW Championship and Atlanta for the Tour Championship – with hopes of adding a big west coast finale for bigger TV ratings. Here's the note from the PGA Tour this morning on the massive changes coming. @Golfweek will have more coverage throughout the day. pic.twitter.com/jLPkfJ7BOd— Golfweek (@golfweek) June 23, 2026According to a source, the players on the FCC drove the bus on the playoff structure, particularly Adam Scott — who previously told Golfweek that making the Tour Championship a more prestigious event was the motivating factor in his interest to be a player director on the board — and Keith Mitchell, who finished T-4 at the U.S. Open on Sunday. One thing they made abundantly clear to Rolapp and the independent directors: venue matters. The players want to take the playoff events to iconic venues. While this may be a reach, the Tour was investigating the possibility of Cypress Point in Pebble Beach, Calif., which did allow limited spectators to the private club for last year’s Walker Cup, and Pine Valley, another acclaimed private club on the New Jersey-Pennsylvania border, that has a future Walker Cup on the books. If either of these scenarios were to happen, it would be a scaled-down version of a Tour event and what a source described as more of a TV show in the vein of some of the Silly Season events.“Think big, think TV,” a source said. The nine-member FCC committee is made up of six player representatives — Patrick Cantlay, Maverick McNealy, Keith Mitchell, Adam Scott, Camilo Villegas and Tiger Woods (Chairman) — and three strategic business advisors, Joe Gorder, John Henry and Theo Epstein.Details on the format and expected location(s) of the season-ending events beginning in 2028 will be provided at a later date, the Tour said, but consider us intrigued.Adam Schupak is a senior writer for Golfweek covering the PGA Tour. This article originally appeared on Golfweek: PGA Tour adds match play to 2028 playoffs

The new labor deal between the NFL and the NFL Referees Association puts a premium on competition — and accountability.Low-performing officials could be assigned to work in the UFL, as explained in a recent ESPN item that reviews the new elements of the latest Collective Bargaining Agreement for officials.The UFL-NFL connection piqued our curiosity. We asked the NFL for more information as to how this would work, given that the UFL would have to make room for any of the relegated NFL officials. (And given that the UFL may not be particularly interested in officials deemed to be deficient by the NFL.)Per an NFL spokesperson: "The details are still to be worked out. From a CBA perspective, we now have the ability to work more closely with underperforming officials, and one way we have is for them to get additional reps in a league like the UFL."A UFL source tells PFT that three or four NFL officials have worked in the UFL over the past two seasons. So the pipeline already exists, in general terms. The new CBA between the NFL and the NFLRA seems to contemplate something more formal and organized.That could eventually be the case. For now, the specifics remain under construction.With the NFL having no developmental league of its own, any connection between the NFL and the UFL could lead to more efforts by the NFL to tap into the opportunities created by the UFL. Already, the league is relying on the UFL as a de facto device to help players develop. It could spread to other aspects of the overall NFL training experience, with players and officials potentially joined by coaches and executives to get valuable football experience beyond working for the 32 franchises of the NFL.

Head coach Brendon McCullum said he remains "good friends" with England captain Ben Stokes and the pair have "no idea" why rumours of a rift have emerged.The pair reunited on Tuesday for England's crucial deciding Test against New Zealand after Stokes missed the second following an incident in a London nightclub.Both McCullum and Stokes had previously denied their relationship was strained during the 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia, and McCullum has faced questions about their partnership during Stokes' absence.At Trent Bridge, two days before the third Test against New Zealand, McCullum revealed the pair spoke face-to-face on Tuesday morning."I said: 'Do you know where this has come from, the conversations around our relationship over the last six months?'" explained McCullum."He said: 'No, I have no idea.' I said to him: 'As far I'm concerned, I consider you a good friend.'"Stokes and pace bowler Gus Atkinson were made unavailable for England's heavy defeat in the second Test during an investigation into a breach of the team's midnight curfew following victory in the first Test at Lord's.They were present when a member of England security staff was struck by a Saracens rugby player.Both have been cleared to rejoin the England squad for the third Test, with Stokes returning as captain.Two days before the second Test at The Oval, McCullum gave a sombre media conference, when he repeatedly spoke of his "worry" and "concern" for Stokes.However, Durham's county head coach Ryan Campbell later said Stokes was in "good spirits" and the county's chief executive Tim Bostock said he was "bemused" by McCullum's comments.Brendon McCullum is contracted to England until after the 2027 World Cup in October and November [Getty Images]On Tuesday, McCullum said: "My assessment was that I was slightly concerned, worried, now my assessment is that he looks great and is ready to go."He looks fantastic, he looks ready to go, he's enthusiastic about the week and obviously from our point of view it's nice to have the band back together."It's been a real privilege for me over the past four years to work in intimate detail and as a partnership alongside Ben. I look back on that fondly about how tight we were as a group and how tight we were as a pair. Anything outside of that, it's not really up to us. Ben and I are tight."England trained in Nottingham on Tuesday afternoon, a session that began with Stokes and McCullum embracing. They were engaged in discussions with selector Marcus North, with England due to name their team later in the day.In his absence from the England team, Stokes played two days of Durham's County Championship match against Northamptonshire.The 35-year-old's score of 95 at Chester-le-Street was his highest in any cricket since last July."I thought he batted brilliantly," said McCullum. "He actually texted me saying 'have you seen the highlights?'"I said I had, and he said: 'I'm back.'"Following the events surrounding the defeat at The Oval, England once again find themselves under pressure for their results on the pitch and conduct off it.Stokes, McCullum and director of cricket Rob Key were all backed following the hammering in Australia.However, sitting level with New Zealand at 1-1 after two matches, England are at risk of losing another series – they have won only two of their past nine Tests.A series defeat against the Kiwis would be only their second at home since 2014 – also a loss to New Zealand, in 2021. England have not lost a home series of at least three Tests since they were beaten by South Africa 14 years ago."Anyone can lead when it's easy," said McCullum. "The true account of a leader or leadership group is to be able to lead when times are difficult."I remember talking to Eoin Morgan after 2015 World Cup, and you know how close I am with him. He came to me and asked me: 'What do you think I should do?'"I said: 'Tough times don't last, but tough blokes do.' And I think it's no different - you've got to be prepared to go through some tough times knowing that if you're able to navigate through that, and hold the fort and hold your nerve, then there's some good stuff to come."McCullum again addressed the terms of England's midnight curfew, after admitting to some "ambiguity" in the aftermath of the defeat at The Oval.The curfew was introduced following several off-field controversies during the Ashes.Though the incident involving Stokes and Atkinson took place after the first Test had ended, England said the curfew was still in place.However, Key revealed Atkinson claimed to not know it was in operation."It's very well documented now the point around not just the curfew but our standards around protocols and all those sorts of things," said McCullum."Time and place is important to be able to enjoy yourself and we'll always try to encourage that."But excess is not what we're after and when mistakes are made you need to make sure you iron them out and then we move forward as a team. That's where we're at at the moment."The questions facing England after awful fortnightStokes & Atkinson 'blameless for violent conduct'McCullum welcomes Stokes return as captain for third Test

“I’m gonna hit another one.”A perfectly common phrase in golf. Probably one you’ve said many times before yourself. The question is, what’s your reason for teeing up another or throwing an extra one down? What preceded it?It took me awhile to find it, but my good Twitter friend Brian Kirschner’s spicy reply to a rather innocent meme from a few weeks back sparked this conversation. The meme was a joke about Scottie Scheffler’s mini-meltdown at Memorial over he and caddie Ted Scott getting the wind wrong on the par-3 16th. It went a little something like this:Funny. Relatable. Something we’ve all encountered. BK took it a step further:Jeez. Hardo take. Or.... He’s right? As is the case with many of these stupid golf problems, this one is entirely circumstantial. If you clearly just pumped one out of bounds or to an area you might not find the ball, you quite literally have to hit a provisional under the Rules of Golf. If you’re trying to keep it moving and the group doesn’t care about the official rules, you can simply play it lateral, too. However, if you just hit a really poor shot and want to “hit another” just because, I think other people in your group, guys like Brian, have every right to roll their eyes and quietly think you’re selfish. What, we all came out to watch you play a practice round? Are we playing golf here or what? This is doubly true if you’re playing a match for any amount of money. You don’t get to take full swing practice shots. You don’t get to “find” your swing when we’re in the middle of a $10 Nassau. Now, oddly enough, Brian’s reply was focused more on and around the greens, which was a topic last week during the fog delay on Thursday at the U.S. Open. Apparently, in USGA events, you are well within your right to hit practice putts or chips on the green you’ve just completed. This was news to former U.S. Open champ Jim Furyk, as well as news to us. Of course, there is almost always a local rule against this at PGA Tour events. But in USGA events, it’s 100 percent allowed, so long as you are not unreasonably holding up play behind you. As BK put it, though, he doesn’t care if you’re not holding up play. Keep it moving. Fair enough. But I’m very guilty of raking a miss and hitting an extra putt, so I can’t talk on that front. That said, it’s almost always frustrating when I do so, because you always make the second. So perhaps I’ll start heeding Brian’s advice. With all that said, if you’re out there playing for no money, by yourself or with a buddy or two, and you or your buddy is just going through it, can’t get the ball airborne, chopping it up, etc. Take as many practice balls as you’d like, as long as you’re not holding up anyone behind you. Working through it is perfectly acceptable when you’re out for an evening 9 or simply wanting to see how Player B stacks up. But in a foursome, in a game, in any kind of more official setting, I’m with Brian. We’re playing a legitimate round here, lads, go to your next shot. Unless, of course, it’s a USGA event. Do you have a "stupid" golf problem? A question you're too ashamed to ask your close friends? A conundrum that needs to be talked out in a public forum? We're here to help. If you have etiquette-related inquiries or just want to know how to handle some of the unique on- or off-course situations we all find ourselves in, please let us know. You can email me (chris.powers@wbd.com) or send me a DM on Twitter/X (@Cpowers14) or on Instagram (@cpthreeve).

The Brooklyn Nets didn't exactly trade for Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo last night, but they still made a big deal when they acquired forward Julius Randle from the Minnesota Timberwolves via trade. Brooklyn had to trade center Nic Claxton to the Chicago Bulls in order to get Randle and the No. 28 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft and it seems like the Nets could get an interesting player with the pick."With a new hole at center, Jayden Quaintance could be an option for a team that suddenly has win-now players and a collection of youngsters," Jonathan Wasserman wrote on Kentucky center Jayden Quaintance. Wasserman projected the Nets to take Quaintance with the pick especially given the fact that Brooklyn now as a hole at center behind veteran Day'Ron Sharpe."Quaintance wasn't one of the first 24 players invited to the green room, and teams believe too many front offices are scared of the 2025 ACL injury that's prevented him from showing anything in over a year," Wasserman continued. "Between the lack of production and medical concerns, Quaintance has suddenly become an intriguing buy-low option late in the first round."Quaintance, 18, is one of the more polarizing prospects in the 2026 class given his past injuries combined with his outstanding physical profile that leads some to believe that he could be an impactful player someday. Over his two-year career that was interrupted by a knee injury, Quaintance averaged 8.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game while shooting 52.9% from the field and 45.2% from the free-throw line.Quaintance has not had a formal workout with the Nets over the course of the pre-draft process, but that doesn't mean that he wouldn't be under consideration for Brooklyn now that they have the chance to take someone towards the end of the draft. The Nets have less than 24 hours to decide who they will be taking in the draft, but if Quaintance is on the board, Brooklyn could do worse than taking a young player with his potential.This article originally appeared on Nets Wire: Nets projected to take Jayden Quaintance 28th in 2026 NBA Draft

Team USA is making an improbable run through the 2026 FIFA men's World Cup tournament.Might the U.S. Women’s Team make a similar run during the women’s World Cup next year, if it gets there?USWNT, led by rising stars like defender Naomi Girma, fullback Emily Fox and captain Trinity Rodman, still have a ways to go to qualify for the 32-team women's tournament. Here’s the women’s side’s path to World Cup 2027.Where the USWNT stands on 2027 World Cup qualificationThe U.S. Women's National Team has not yet qualified for the '27 World Cup. According to Just Women's Sports, the USWNT goes into qualifying as FIFA’s No. 1‑ranked women’s team and the top seed in Concacaf — the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football.The 2026 Concacaf W Championship runs from November 27 through December 5 in Texas. That eight‑team knockout tournament includes Canada, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Haiti, Jamaica, Mexico and Panama.Team USA will open in the quarterfinals against El Salvador, the lowest‑ranked team in the field.Concacaf has four direct World Cup spots, and those go to the four semifinalists, meaning if the USWNT wins its quarterfinal vs. El Salvador, it qualifies automatically for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.What Happens if the USWNT Stumbles at Concacaf?If the women's team somehow loses that quarterfinal, it isn’t out of the World Cup — but the team would need to survive a Concacaf playoff and then an intercontinental tournament, turning a one‑game clinch into a much tougher, multi‑step climb.In previous World Cup cycles, teams from other regions have recovered from knockout‑round losses to qualify via confederation playoffs and intercontinental tournaments, and Concacaf now has a similar back‑door route built into its format.Where Is the 2027 Women’s World Cup, and who’s already in?The FIFA Women's World Cup Brazil 2027 begins June 24 and runs through July 25.These teams have already qualified for the women's World Cup:ArgentinaAustraliaBrazil (host)China PRColombiaDenmarkFranceGermanyJapanKorea DPRKorea RepublicNew ZealandPhilippinesSpainSimilar to the 2026 men’s World Cup, the 2027 women’s World Cup will be staged across multiple South American cities in Brazil: Belo Horizonte (Estádio Mineirão), Brasília (Estádio Nacional), Fortaleza (Arena Castelão), Porto Alegre (Estádio Beira‑Rio), Recife (Arena de Pernambuco), Rio de Janeiro (Estádio do Maracanã), Salvador (Arena Fonte Nova) and São Paulo (Arena Itaquera).The women’s tournament will feature 32 teams; the men’s expands to 48 in 2026.Damon C. Williams is a Philadelphia-based journalist reporting on trending, breaking and service-related topics across the Mid-Atlantic region for the USA Today Network. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: How USWNT can punch Its ticket to the 2027 World Cup

NEW DELHI: BCCI has named Suryansh Shedge as the replacement for Nitish Kumar Reddy in the squads for the upcoming T20I series against Ireland and England after the all-rounder was sidelined by a quadriceps injury.Nitish reported discomfort in his left quadriceps after the third ODI against Afghanistan on June 20. Following a medical assessment, the BCCI Medical Team recommended a period of rehabilitation, effectively ruling him out of both assignments.The injury setback comes after the 23-year-old had already missed the second ODI against Afghanistan in Lucknow. Although he featured in the series, the problem flared up again, forcing him out of the upcoming white-ball engagements. The exact timeline for his return remains unclear.India will play two T20Is against Ireland in Belfast on June 26 and 28 before travelling to England for a five-match series scheduled on July 1, 4, 7, 9 and 11.Strong India A performances earn Shedge national call-upShedge's elevation comes on the back of an impressive run with India A in the recently concluded tri-series in Sri Lanka. The 23-year-old middle-order batter scored 147 runs in five matches and also contributed with the ball, sending down 23 overs during the tournament.He had already emerged as one of the standout performers for Mumbai during their victorious Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign in 2024-25. Batting in the lower middle order, Shedge amassed 131 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 251.92, showcasing the finishing ability that has brought him into the selectors' radar.Even before the official announcement, reports had indicated that Shedge was the frontrunner to replace Nitish because of his recent exploits in Sri Lanka.India begin preparations for overseas assignmentsThe Indian squad has already started departing for the Ireland series in batches. One group, comprising Sanju Samson, Axar Patel, teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, bowling coach Morne Morkel and fielding coach T Dilip, left from Chennai, while several players are set to depart from Mumbai.Nitish, who has represented India in 10 Tests, six ODIs and four T20Is, will now focus on rehabilitation with hopes of making a swift return.For Shedge, meanwhile, the call-up represents a major breakthrough and an opportunity to cement his place as India embark on an important white-ball tour of Ireland and England.

During fantasy baseball draft season, we had our impressions of how each position would play out in 2026. But with the midpoint of the season just a few days away, we can now see that some positions are not what they expected them to be. Here is a full recap of each offensive position, including players who deserve a recalibration of their roster rate.Catcher: ExcitingThis is one of the best years we have seen from the catcher position, as eight backstops have been top 100 overall assets. But there is a massive drop-off after that point, as catcher No. 9 (Carter Jensen) is ranked 217th and No. 10 (Adley Rutschman) is ranked 319th. In every league, we have a few managers who are trying to cover the position until a better option, such as Rutschman or Ryan Jeffers returns from the IL.Most surprising player: Liam Hicks is the No. 5-ranked catcher after starting the season on waivers in virtually every league. His premium contact skills have helped with a .278 average, and he has shown more power than expected (13 HR). He will hopefully soon return from an IL stint that was caused by a back injury.Most disappointing player: Coming off a historic season, Cal Raleigh was drafted higher than any catcher in recent memory. Injuries have impacted this counting stat totals, but he has also been awful when healthy (.560 OPS).Over-rostered player: Salvador Pérez (80%) is 36 years old and has logged a sub-.650 OPS in every month this season. Managers can put him on the waiver wire until he proves that he isn’t washed up.Under-rostered player: Dillon Dingler (87%) should be rostered in every league. Not only has he been the third most valuable catcher, but his expected stats are much better than his actual marks.First base: EndlessThis has become the deepest fantasy position, with 10 members who rank as top 50 assets and a total of 24 who crack the top 150. There are 13 first basemen who are on pace for at least 30 homers and 12 who are headed toward 100 RBI.Most surprising player: Managers had given up on Miguel Vargas, who had produced a .651 OPS from 2022-25. He has found his groove with a patient, fly-ball heavy approach and could finish with 30 homers and 100 runs. Vargas is also one of three first basemen with a double-digit steals total.Most disappointing player: Sure, he has logged a healthy .283 average, but Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has completely disappeared as a power hitter. His homer total (4) is one of the most surprising stats of 2026.Over-rostered player: Since joining the Giants a little over a year ago, Rafael Devers (94%) has hit .237 with 31 homers in 167 games. In shallow leagues, it’s time to move on.Under-rostered player: Ryan O’Hearn (58%) is the type of quiet, consistent player who championship fantasy teams have at the back end of their roster. He has logged a helpful .275 average and has collected 74 R+RBI in 63 games.Second base: UninspiringThere are just four second basemen among the top 50 assets, and only a total of nine in the top 100. The situation isn’t dire, as there are enough members in the top 150 (14) for managers to find a respectable option. But the lack of impactful players makes this a boring group.Most surprising player: A career .260 hitter when he stepped to the plate on Opening Day, Otto Lopez leads the majors with a .336 average. The extra trips to first base have unlocked his 75th percentile sprint speed, as Lopez is on a 30-steal pace.Most disappointing player: Sure, he has contributed 18 steals and a .284 average, but Fernando Tatís Jr. is doing his best Vladimir Guerrero Jr. impression by going deep just twice. Both players need to address their groundball tendencies before they can return to being sluggers.Over-rostered player: Nico Hoerner (92%) is on an epic cold streak, batting .194 with zero homers, nine RBI and 12 runs since May 1. He needs to be replaced in 12-team formats.Under-rostered player: Zack Gelof (69%) has cut his strikeout rate, which has given him additional opportunities to let his power and speed skills flourish. He also benefits from being part of a quality Athletics lineup that should thrive at their hitter-friendly home park this summer.Third base: RespectableExpected to be the weakest fantasy position, third base currently includes just enough top 120 assets (12) to go around in a standard league. There is a definite lack of headliners at the position, as no third baseman ranks among the top 40 and there are just six among the top 95.Most surprising player: Casey Schmitt has been the Giants’ best hitter (.855 OPS). Hitting .296 with 16 homers and seven steals, he offers the balanced profile that fantasy managers covet. And with four eligible positions (1B/2B/3B/OF), Schmitt is among the easiest players to fit into a lineup.Most disappointing player: Manny Machado is off to a miserable start (.625 OPS). His strikeout rate is up, and his quality of contact is down. Machado’s .179 average is really hurting those in categories formats.Over-rostered player: For years, Alex Bregman (92%) found fantasy success as a high-volume accumulator rather than someone who dominated categories. He hasn’t adjusted well to being a member of the Cubs and likely lacks the upside to burn those who move on from him in shallow leagues.Under-rostered player: Curtis Mead (18%) has become the starting third baseman in an offense that ranks first in runs scored. The 25-year-old is an underrated power source (12 HR in 194 AB) who makes enough contact to have a respectable average (.227 xBA).Outfield: ConcerningFantasy managers are wondering where all the outfielders have gone. Typically one of the deepest positions, outfield is barely satisfying those in three-outfielder leagues and failing to meet the needs of managers in five-outfielder formats. There are just 29 outfielders who have been top 150 assets, and several of them are being used at weak infield positions such as second or third base. In a 12-team, five-outfielder leagues, some managers need to reach outside the top 300 assets to fill their final lineup spot.Most surprising player: The poster child for a post-hype sleeper, Jordan Walker was a former top prospect who went undrafted in virtually every league. He has been the eighth overall asset and is the only player in baseball with an average over .285 and at least 15 homers and 10 steals.Most disappointing player: A first-round pick in many leagues, Ronald Acuña Jr. has been limited to 53 games by injuries and didn’t play his best (.793 OPS) when he was healthy. Acuna has been injured and inconsistent in recent seasons, as he has logged a sub-.800 OPS in three of the past five years but marks of 1.012 and .935 in the other two campaigns. At this point, the 28-year-old may be more of a good hitter than a great one.Over-rostered player: Maikel García (90%) benefits from having multi-position eligibility (2B/3B/SS/OF) but the appeal ends there. The speedster has been unable to reproduce his 2025 breakout season and has thus far tallied just three homers and five steals in 68 games. His roster rate should drop by 15-20%.Under-rostered player: Brandon Marsh (64%) has been consistently effective en route to being the 57th overall asset. He is dominating the batting average category (.311) and contributing in every area. Marsh appears to have an unsustainable .391 BABIP, but his career mark is similar (.374), which offers hope that he can finish 2026 with a .300 average.

Donald Trump’s lesbian niece, Mary Trump, eviscerated her uncle in a Monday blog post for blaming so-called “vandals” on the mess that he has made of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool renovation. The president was convinced he could solve the algae issue in the Washington, DC Reflecting Pool, which has been plaguing the National Mall since the pool was built in the 1920s. Over $14 million dollars later (after projecting the initial cost at less than $2 million), Donald Trump’s renovated pool is having the same problem. Additionally, the blue paint the administration used on the bottom has begun to peel, with chunks floating to the surface. Related “That’s it? That’s the joke?”: Dem schools GOP group that tried to insult her with anti-trans barb “The entire fiasco is a complete and utter disaster,” wrote Mary Trump, “and one that could have been avoided. Congress could have done its job and refused to allow a no-bid contract to be awarded to one of Donald’s donors and cronies. A qualified firm with actual expertise could have been hired. Instead, taxpayers were left funding yet another lesson in what happens when loyalty is valued more highly than competence.” She then zeroed in on the myriad of explanations the administration has given “for why the Reflecting Pool renovation had become such an embarrassment.” Insights for the LGBTQ+ community Subscribe to our briefing for insights into how politics impacts the LGBTQ+ community and more. Subscribe to our Newsletter today “We were told not to believe our own eyes,” she said. “We were told it was not really that serious. We were assured the problem would be fixed. Most importantly, we were told it was not Donald’s fault.” “Regime officials,” as Mary Trump called them, didn’t blame their own incompetence or lack of planning. Instead, they blamed vandals. “According to the Trump regime, people were intentionally damaging the Reflecting Pool in an effort to undermine Donald. How anybody can say this with a straight face is beyond my comprehension,” she wrote. The president threatened 10 years in jail for anyone who “vandalizes” the pool, which, to him, appears to mean merely touching the water or the paint chips that have floated up. “Apparently, ‘renovating’ now means ruining something, and ‘vandalism’ means pointing it out,” Mary Trump said. “It is a familiar pattern in the Trump era. When something falls apart because of corruption, incompetence, or poor planning, the people responsible rarely face scrutiny. Instead, attention shifts to whoever notices the failure first.” She said the pool has become a metaphor for what her uncle has done to the country: “A public institution that was functioning perfectly well before somebody decided to remake it for personal vanity. Millions spent unnecessarily. Experts ignored. Cronies rewarded. Public resources wasted. Reality denied. And when everything inevitably falls apart, blame shifted onto everyone except the people responsible.” She also decried the fact that her uncle has been “responsible not only for the vandalism of the Reflecting Pool, but increasingly for the vandalism of Washington” and blasted the fact that he feels he has the right to demolish the East Wing and the Rose Garden or build a giant arch or a new ballroom. And it’s all getting worse, she said, “because Donald is getting worse.” “On some level, Donald knows he is losing control. He is losing control of the narrative that he is competent. He is losing control of the narrative that he is strong. He is losing control of the narrative that he is in charge. None of those things has ever been true, but maintaining the illusion is becoming increasingly difficult,” she said. The more clear his incompetence becomes, she said, the more he will desperately try to distract the public through “bigger spectacles, more expensive vanity projects, and increasingly absurd displays of self promotion.” “Every new distraction is designed to accomplish the same thing: convince people that he is not the corrupt, incompetent, pathetic loser he has always been.” Subscribe to the LGBTQ Nation newsletter and be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Nature, Published online: 23 June 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-01842-9Stretching protein samples in all directions pulls molecules farther apart, allowing them to be visualized using only light microscopy.