MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - JUNE 02: Kyle Harrison #52 of the Milwaukee Brewers is doused while being interviewed after a win over against the San Francisco Giants 8-3 at American Family Field on June 02, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) | Getty Images When the San Francisco Giants cut bait on top pitching prospect Kyle Harrison last season in the Rafael Devers trade, they knew there was a chance that the then 23-year-old would come back to haunt them. Just under a year after the trade, that possibility became a reality.Harrison tied a career high by striking out 12 Giants in 5.2 innings, moving to 7-1 on the season with a 1.57 ERA. The only damage came on a sixth-inning solo shot by Willy Adames to give the Giants their lone run off Harrison in what eventually ended up an 8-3 defeat to the Milwaukee Brewers.Willy Adames gets one back for the Giants 🙌 pic.twitter.com/SbiWwTVFnn— SF Giants on NBCS (@NBCSGiants) June 3, 2026The Giants might have been extra regretful of the deal since their prize return from the trade was fitted for a Golden Sombrero after striking out four times in five at-bats. He did deliver a productive strikeout in the first inning, making Harrison throw 10 pitches before he was caught looking at a fastball — which now regularly hits 97 MPH. At least Zach Wheeler had the courtesy to wait a few seasons to become an All-Star after the Giants traded him.Yes, seeing 10 pitches counted as a victory Tuesday against Harrison. It looked like the Giants might shorten his night when Casey Schmitt and Devers got his pitch count up to 16 with back-to-back strikeouts, Luis Arraez tripled, and Adames walked on five pitches. With Harrison sitting at 26 pitches, Matt Chapman swung at the first pitch he saw and popped out.After that, it felt like Harrison wanted to send a message to his old teammates and Buster Posey. Daniel Susac singled in the second, and Harrison struck out five in a row. Adames singled to open the 4th and Harrison struck out the next three hitters. He was one strike away from exiting with six shutout innings before Adames went deep.Kyle Harrison strikes out 12 in a start for the second time this season!(MLB x @Abbvie) pic.twitter.com/H8TNz2kadz— MLB (@MLB) June 3, 2026 The Giants prepared for a tough left-handed pitcher by loading up on righties. Jonah Cox and Victor Bericoto started alongside Schmitt in the outfield, and new Giants Buddy Kennedy was the DH. The trio went 0-for-6 with four Ks off Harrison, and Kennedy also struck out against lefty reliever Aaron Ashby.Cox delivered the game’s most frustrating at-bat in the 7th inning. After Susac and Bericoto singled to lead off the inning, the rookie center fielder squared to bunt and popped it up to the pitcher. Later in the inning, Devers grounded out with runners on second and third — but at least he didn’t end up with the Platinum Sombrero.Trevor McDonald (2-3) probably deserved better, after bouncing back from a three-run first inning. He didn’t give up another run in the next four innings, keeping the Giants within striking range by getting lots of ground balls and a clutch 6-3 double play. McDonald also came within one strike of escaping a jam that started with back-to-back walks, than left a sinker over the plate that tuned into a three-run homer from Jake Bauers, who looks nothing like Kiefer Sutherland.Jake Bauers clubs a 3-run homer! pic.twitter.com/QohCOl8tVv— MLB (@MLB) June 3, 2026The game was full of baffling decisions, excellent Brewers base running, and some very poor Giants defense.Daniel Susac made an error on a pickoff throw to second base because his throw hit the batter in the helmet. Tony Vitello argued for interference, but Sal Frelick didn’t move and was probably extremely surprised.McDonald had Luis Rengfio picked off in the 2nd inning, but threw the ball away. Chapman had trouble dealing with some challenging grounders in the 8th, which were both ruled infield singles, but Prime Chapman would usually turn into outs. New center fielder Drew Gilbert also gave up a double to Jackson Chourio that hit his glove. It would have been a great defensive play, but it wasn’t, and the game went from 6-3 to 8-3 when Chourio scored on a Bryce Turang single two pitches later.Bryce Eldridge sat against a left-handed starter. But to sit in favor of designated hitter Buddy Kennedy, a man whose career slash line against lefties is .194/.286/.301 is baffling. Kennedy’s name also sounds like the video game alias for a player who didn’t sign the licensing agreement. When Eldridge finally got in the game, he delivered an RBI single.Maybe Jung Hoo Lee needed a rest day, but he also delivered an RBI pinch-hit in the 8th. He’s on a five-game hitting streak since coming off the Injured List and has gone 13-for-20. But platoons!Devers struck out twice in at-bats where an ABS Challenge went against him, once reversing a ball call to hand him a K and once when he appealed a borderline strike himself and lost, then became Harrison’s 12th strikeout.The Giants walked seven Brewers. Five of them came around to score.Tristan Beck gave up four runs in the 8th, all with two outs. 1-2-3 hitters Christian Yelich, Chourio, and Turang all knocked in runs, and have scored 11 runs and driven in 12 runs in the series.There were positives. Susac went 3-for-4, though the Giants couldn’t get him home. Adames went 2-for-4 with a walk and turned two big 6-3 double plays. Erik Miller had a nice inning of relief. No one tore their hamstring on a routine ground ball. The crowd looked like they had a great time.The Giants aren’t done facing 24-year-old pitchers in this series. Wednesday, the Brewers are calling up Tyson Hardin to make his major-league debut, after he had 61 strikeouts in 48 innings between AA and AAA this season. He is, however, right-handed, so we may not see another Bericoto-Cox Murdered Row in that game.Then again, anything can happen with this team’s roster and lineup decisions. After all, we never dreamed 2026 would be the start of the Buddy Kennedy Era.

England lost to Spain in the 2023 World Cup final, but beat them on penalties to win Euro 2025 [Getty Images]England will seal a place at next summer's World Cup finals in Brazil if they avoid defeat against Spain on Friday (20:00 - all times BST).The Lionesses are in Mallorca to face the world champions in their penultimate qualifying fixture.After defeating Iceland and Spain in April to make it four wins from as many qualifying matches, Sarina Wiegman's side are three points clear at the top of Group A3.Win or draw on Friday and the European champions would become the first home nation to qualify for the World Cup, with Spain forced to go through the play-offs.Next summer's tournament in Brazil will feature 32 teams and run from 24 June to 25 July.In total, eight different stadiums will host matches, all of which were used when Brazil hosted the men's finals in 2014.England and Republic of Ireland hope to seal finals place[BBC]England and the Republic of Ireland enter these fixtures with a chance of securing direct qualification for the World Cup.The 53 European teams hoping to earn a spot at next summer's finals were split into three leagues at the start of qualifying.Both League A and League B are made up of 16 nations across four groups. The remaining 21 nations compete in League C in groups of three and four.The four group winners in League A - where England and the Republic of Ireland are placed - can qualify directly for the finals.Should England lose in Spain on Friday, then it gets complicated.If defeat is by a bigger margin than the 1-0 win they earned in the reverse fixture at Wembley, the only way they can finish top is to better Spain's result in their final group games on Tuesday (20:00), against Ukraine and in Iceland respectively.If England lose by a single goal against Spain and they finish on the same points, tie-breakers such as goal difference, number of away goals and even disciplinary records could decide the group.The Republic of Ireland have qualified for one World Cup previously - in 2023 [Getty Images]The Republic of Ireland are third in their group, but their fate remains in their own hands as they face the two teams above them - taking on the Netherlands in Cork on Friday (19:30) before travelling to France for their final fixture on Tuesday (20:00).Win both and the Republic of Ireland will seal a place at the World Cup - for only the second time in their history - regardless of results elsewhere.As Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are in League B, however, the picture is slightly different.The best they can achieve is a play-off place by finishing in the top three - a position both have already secured with two games to spare.Scotland are in top spot before back-to-back fixtures with Israel on Friday (17:00) and Tuesday (18:00).Meanwhile, Wales are second in their group on goal difference behind Czech Republic whom they host on Tuesday (18:00), after travelling to Montenegro on Friday (17:00).Finally, Northern Ireland need a point from their final games in Turkey (Friday, 18:00) and at home to Switzerland (Tuesday, 18:00) to secure a play-off berth.Reaching the play-offs extends hope of making the World Cup, but teams will still have to navigate two rounds in the autumn to get to Brazil.Who else will be at the World Cup?Elsewhere, Denmark and Germany are front-runners to win the two remaining League A groups and secure direct passage to next summer's tournament.Denmark are top of Group A1, one point ahead of Sweden and three ahead of Italy heading into the final two matches.If they beat Sweden on Friday [19:15] and Italy fail to take maximum points from their game against Serbia [19:00], then they will seal their spot at a second successive World Cup.However, victory for Sweden would see them leapfrog their Nordic neighbours and take top spot before the final round of matches.In Group A4, Germany can continue their impressive record of featuring in every World Cup by beating Norway in what is essentially a winner-takes-all fixture on Friday [19:35].The two-time champions are one point clear of Norway heading into the last two matches of the campaign.After Friday's game in Cologne, Tuesday sees Germany travel to Slovenia, while Norway host Austria at the same time [18:00].Japan's success in March's Asian Cup ensured Women's Super League stars such as Yui Hasegawa and Ayaka Yamashita will be in Brazil in June 2027 [Getty Images]So far, eight teams have qualified for the World Cup.Brazil were the first team to earn a place at the finals when they were awarded the right to host the tournament in 2024.Since then, the 2007 runners-up have been joined by Australia, China, Japan, North Korea, South Korea and the Phillippines - who all secured qualification through the Women's Asia Cup.New Zealand also sealed a place at the 2027 finals after an extremely dominant Oceania qualifying campaign.

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Eric Lauer in the second inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. PHOENIX — For a team searching for consistency on the mound, Eric Lauer continues to provide exactly what the Dodgers need.The left-hander won't overwhelm hitters with eye-popping velocity or gaudy strikeout totals, but on Tuesday night at Chase Field, Lauer once again gave the Dodgers a chance to win. Behind a strong outing from the veteran and another offensive showcase from Freddie Freeman and Shohei Ohtani, the Dodgers survived a late D-Backs rally to secure a 6-5 victory.The win improved the Dodgers' momentum heading into Wednesday's highly anticipated matchup, when Ohtani is expected to make his next start on the mound while serving as the designated hitter.But before the spotlight shifts to Ohtani's two-way duties, it belonged to Lauer.Lauer continued a recent trend among Dodgers pitchers of finding extra life on their fastball. His only significant mistake came in the third inning when Corbin Carroll launched a solo home run to right field. Arizona added another run in the fifth on Ketel Marte's sacrifice fly, but Lauer largely kept the Diamondbacks off balance throughout his 4 2/3 innings.His final line reflected another valuable contribution:4 2/3 innings, 5 hits, 2 earned runs, 1 walk, 1 strikeout, 70 pitches."So far, everything's been comfortable and it's been a very easy transition for me," Lauer said after the game.That comfort level has become increasingly evident since arriving in Los Angeles."The comfort level and trust that I feel in myself from the team, it's big for me," Lauer said. "I think that's definitely gave me a little more success."Lauer credited adjustments that began before his arrival with the Dodgers but have become easier to implement in his new environment."I think overall it's stuff I've kind of been working on," he said. "When I was DFA'd, I think I was on my way to making these adjustments and I was kind of getting to them. I think here, I've been able to implement them a little bit more."The Dodgers' offense made sure his effort didn't go to waste.Freeman wasted little time getting Los Angeles on the board. After Ohtani opened the game with a double, Freeman jumped on a 94 mph fastball from Michael Soroka and sent it soaring into the right-field seats for a two-run homer.The blast was Freeman's ninth home run of the season and his third in the last six games.Then came Ohtani.Already riding one of his hottest stretches of the season, Ohtani struck again in the second inning. With Dalton Rushing and Alex Freeland aboard, Ohtani ripped a two-run triple into the gap, extending the lead to 4-0.The triple was Ohtani's second of the season and continued a torrid run at the plate. Entering Tuesday, he was hitting .417 with a 1.148 OPS over the previous week."All of May was really good for Freddie, and I think Shohei, too," Dave Roberts said. "It is good that the guys at the top and I think also the guys at the bottom did a nice job."Freeman sees the impact firsthand every night."And that's why we've been winning a lot," Freeman said. "When you have the greatest player of all time playing this game on your team, and he's hot like he is right now, it's fun to watch, fun to be a part of. When he gets on, he's creating havoc on the bases, extra-base hits, and we get to watch him do everything tomorrow."Shohei Ohtani drives in 2 runs with a triple 🔥 pic.twitter.com/lhmpNkbJCx— MLB (@MLB) June 3, 2026The Dodgers appeared in control for much of the evening, but their bullpen once again made things interesting.After Lauer exited in the fifth, Blake Treinen entered to handle a difficult right-on-right matchup. Treinen walked his first hitter but escaped trouble thanks to a spectacular diving catch by Ryan Ward in left field.The biggest scare came in the seventh.Kyle Hurt struggled with his command, issuing three walks while allowing three runs in just two-thirds of an inning. Arizona capitalized when Nolan Arenado lined a two-run double off the wall, cutting the Dodgers' lead to 6-4.The inning nearly got worse.After inheriting a two-on, two-out jam, Will Klein appeared to strike out Geraldo Perdomo on a called third strike. Arizona challenged the call using the ABS system, and the ruling was overturned. Perdomo responded with a single on the next pitch to load the bases.Klein escaped the threat and returned for the eighth, where he again found himself navigating danger after allowing two one-out singles. This time, he induced an inning-ending double play off Arenado's bat to preserve a one-run lead.Despite another nerve-racking performance from the bullpen, Roberts remained measured afterward."I think they were just missing," Roberts said. "They're not gonna be clean every time they get out there. You gotta give those guys credit."The Dodgers added critical insurance earlier in the seventh.Rushing led off the inning with a double off the center-field wall, his first extra-base hit since April 20. The rookie finished 2-for-4, recording his first multi-hit game since May 6. Mookie Betts followed with an RBI single, continuing signs of life at the plate. Betts has collected five hits in his last 15 at-bats and raised his batting average to .198.That extra cushion proved essential.With a one-run lead in the ninth, Roberts turned to Tanner Scott, who was looking to rebound after a blown save over the weekend.Scott responded with one of his sharper outings of the season, allowing only a soft single before closing out the victory for his sixth save."Obviously, there was no margin with a one-run lead," Roberts said. "I just liked the way he was going after those guys. He gave up a soft serve hit the other way, but outside of that, he was really sharp tonight."For one more night, the Dodgers' stars supplied the offense and Lauer supplied the stability.And while the bullpen tested everyone's blood pressure yet again, the Dodgers did just enough to leave Chase Field with another victory.

Gladbach set to sign Isac LidbergBorussia Mönchengladbach have reached an agreement with 2. Bundesliga Darmstadt to sign Isac Lidberg, according to a report from Sky Germany.Die Fohlen will play a reported €3.5m plus add-ons, with the total package worth around €4m. Additionally, Darmstadt have also secured a sell-on clause for Lidberg, who scored 17 goals and provided three assists in 30 second division games for Die Lilien in 2025/26.Lidberg, who will pen a four-year contract until 2030, has been prolific in Germany’s 2. Bundesliga, scoring 31 goals and adding a further nine assists in 58 matches for Darmstadt, who narrowly missed out on promotion.As Gladbach look to improve on their 12th-place finish, Rouven Schröder and his recruitment team have already moved quick to secure the signings of David Herold (Karlsruher SC, €3.5m), Yukhym Konoplya (Shakhtar Donetsk, free), Enzo Leopold (Hannover, free) and Daniel Batz (Mainz, free), while also signing Hugo Bolin €2m on a permanent basis.GGFN | Daniel Pinder

Is Hayden Hackney the right midfielder for Everton?(Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)There have been plenty of rumours in recent weeks, with Everton linked to tons of names already — silly season has truly begun.Last week, the most concrete of these links had been speculation of Everton moving for West Ham full-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka, albeit it is understood that move was not as far along as the reports suggested.Yet that all changed on Tuesday morning, as first El Bobble, and then The Athletic’s David Ornstein, wrote that Everton were in pole position to sign Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney.Hackney and his representatives were supposedly impressed by Everton’s presentation, and the 23-year-old — at the time of writing — prefers a move to Hill Dickinson Stadium.Should Everton get a deal over the line for the midfielder, they would be signing a highly promising talent about to head into his prime years, but one who already has plenty of experience under his belt.He has played 186 senior games, making 168 starts. He was the driving force behind Middlesbrough’s promotion push, which ended in heartbreak at Wembley last month, and was named Championship Player of the Season for 2025-26.But, is he the midfielder Everton need?There are doubts over several players in Everton’s squad in the middle of the park, not just in terms of quality, but also their immediate futures.Carlos Alcaraz will likely be able to leave the club should a good enough offer come in, while Tim Iroegbunam attracted interest in January. At 22, Iroegbunam is still a developing talent, but he has only a year left on his deal (albeit, Everton reportedly hold an option to extend it) — however, his value is probably high enough at the moment that the Toffees could make a quick profit on the £10million outlay they initially spent on him in 2024.There are question marks, too, over Idrissa Gueye. He did not make enough starts in 2025-26 to activate the automatic renewal clause in his contract, and talks so far have not yielded a result in terms of a new deal.Everton also need to make their mind up on Harrison Armstrong — whether he stays at the club or goes out on another loan, but the 19-year-old is ambitious and full of confidence. He should be prioritised and given the chance to step up.Regardless, Everton definitely need something else in midfield, but I’m of the opinion that player should be a dominant presence both on and off the ball. They should be capable of sitting but also bursting forward. They should have positional discipline to plug the gaps that were far too apparent at times in the last year.Now, those players do not come cheap, but if there’s one area of the pitch Everton should be looking to spend big on, I feel this is it. As much as they absolutely must buy some full-backs, those players tend to be available at a lower price than top-class central midfielders.However, it appears Hackney is their priority target — at least, at this very early stage of the window. And he definitely has plenty to offer.Let’s start with what Hackney is good at: He is excellent on the ball.Too often, Everton’s moves break down in midfield. Whether that’s a lack of movement when trying to break down a stubborn defence, or a lack of ability to pick the right pass on the counter, we have seen it time and time again. There was far too much reliance on James Garner and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall to provide a creative spark from the centre of the park in 2025-26, especially once Jack Grealish was injured.And Hackney would certainly bring plenty in that department.He contributed to 12 Championship goals last term, scoring 5 and supplying 7 assists. Hackney ranked 10th in the second tier for passes attempted and completed, while he topped the charts for passes in the final third (both attempted and successful).His tally of 85 chances created ranked second, while he was first for chances created from open play (59).An impressive 8.7 expected assists ranked sixth in the division, and his 8.1 expected assists from open play was second.That doesn’t necessarily make Hackney a top-class passer — he is not of the Adam Wharton mould, for example. He is, though, an excellent ball-carrier, and it’s fair to say Everton still lack that profile in midfield.Hackney was second for carry distance in the Championship in 2025-26, with his 8,852.4 metres ranking behind only Middlesbrough team-mate Luke Ayling.He was fourth for the most carries attempted (779), and second for progressive carries (which is a carry of at least 10 metres towards the opponent’s goal).However, off the ball, Hackney can be found wanting.He is certainly tenacious — he ranked 7th for possession won in the Championship this past season, 5th for duels contested and 10th for duels won.Yet he was often caught out of position and there would be concerns if he could match the physicality required to play in a team that are not controlling the ball for large periods.Of course, Hackney’s ability in possession would in theory lead to Everton having more of the ball, but the Premier League is a very different calibre to the Championship.Perhaps, if they get this deal over the line, Everton would plan to use Garner as the deepest midfielder, and that is a role he has had some success in, particularly when Gueye went to the Africa Cup of Nations.Yet Garner, too, can be caught out of position a bit too often. He has shown a brilliant desire, determination and capability to get back and make a last-ditch tackle, but ideally, you don’t want him to be having to do that, and you definitely don’t want two central midfielders having to do it.There are pros and cons to this potential addition, though let’s at least credit Everton for moving swiftly in identifying an opportunity. Should they get it done, Hackney has a lot to offer, but will he present the immediate uplift the midfield needs?If he does sign, he must also be played. Even if not always a starter, he should be clocking up 30+ games, fitness permitting, and 1,500+ minutes. Everton cannot afford to make another big signing that David Moyes simply does not play.

New Rams defensive end Myles Garrett had to pay to continue wearing the No. 95 jersey he wore on the Browns.Rams defensive lineman Poona Ford already wore No. 95, and Garrett was asked at his introductory press conference how he got the number from Ford."Just a conversation," Garrett said. "It didn't take too much."That led Rams coach Sean McVay to ask Garrett, "Conversation and a couple bucks?"Garrett answered, "Maybe more than a couple, but he was open to it."Garrett said he knew as soon as the trade happened that he'd want to contact Ford about buying the number from him."I understood there had been some number trades before me," Garrett said. "He understood, and I'm glad to be sticking with No. 95."Garrett getting No. 95 from Ford created a domino effect on the Rams, with Ford switching to No. 97, defensive lineman Bill Norton switching from No. 97 to No. 93, and defensive lineman Payton Zdroik switching from No. 93 to No. 62.

Arsenal tracking Rogers and Brown as Rashford’s future remains uncertain – transfer round-upThe transfer window continues to gather pace across Europe with Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool and Real Madrid all linked with significant moves ahead of the new season.According to the Telegraph, Arsenal remain admirers of Aston Villa attacking midfielder Morgan Rogers, although Villa have no intention of selling the England international. The 23-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough campaign and is understood to be attracting interest from a number of leading clubs.The Gunners are also monitoring Eintracht Frankfurt full-back Nathaniel Brown. The Athletic reports Arsenal and Bayern Munich are both interested in the highly-rated 22-year-old Germany international after his impressive performances in the Bundesliga.Another player attracting Premier League attention is West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes. Teamtalk claims the Portugal Under-21 international has been cleared to leave the London club following enquiries from Arsenal and Manchester United, while Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain are also said to be monitoring developments.Manchester United continue to be linked with defensive reinforcements. Corriere dello Sport reports the club have scouted Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu, with the Serie A side potentially needing to sell players after missing out on Champions League qualification.United have also reportedly completed a £38million deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, who is expected to sign a four-year contract subject to a medical.Elsewhere, Marcus Rashford‘s future remains one of the biggest stories of the summer. According to The i, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, sporting director Deco and club president Joan Laporta are all keen on securing the England forward on a permanent deal. Bayern Munich, Newcastle United, Tottenham and Aston Villa are also credited with interest in the 28-year-old.Liverpool are facing a pivotal summer after reports emerged claiming the club have reached a verbal agreement with Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola to replace Arne Slot. Meanwhile, Sky Sports Germany reports RB Leipzig remain relaxed about interest in teenage winger Yan Diomande from Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain, believing the 19-year-old will stay in Germany and sign an improved contract.There are also growing doubts over the future of Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate. Sky Sports News understands the France international is increasingly likely to join Real Madrid following the expiration of his Liverpool contract.Real Madrid are also moving closer to strengthening at right-back. The Athletic reports the Spanish giants have held talks with Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries and view the Dutch international as their preferred option. Multiple reports suggest Real are prepared to trigger the 30-year-old’s £17.3million release clause.Chelsea and Manchester City are both being linked with Juventus wing-back Andrea Cambiaso. Gazzetta dello Sport claims the Premier League clubs are interested in the Italy international, while Barcelona are also monitoring the situation.Juventus themselves are busy exploring several options. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Bournemouth forward Justin Kluivert has emerged as an alternative target should a move for Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz fail to materialise.Sky Italia reports the Turin club are also in discussions over bringing Paris Saint-Germain striker Randal Kolo Muani back to Serie A following his loan spell at Tottenham, while Juventus are considering moves for either Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez or Tottenham’s Guglielmo Vicario.Elsewhere, Everton are understood to be relaxed about growing interest in Iliman Ndiaye from Manchester United and other clubs, with the Senegal international contracted until 2029. The Toffees have also revived their long-standing interest in Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney.Brighton are in advanced talks to sign AIK winger Zadok Yohanna, while Sheffield United have approached Manchester City over a potential return for midfielder Kalvin Phillips.Away from player recruitment, managerial movement is also gathering momentum. Kieran McKenna is expected to feature prominently on Fulham’s shortlist should Marco Silva depart, with reports suggesting the Portuguese coach is set to take charge of Benfica on a three-year contract.As always during transfer season, plenty of these stories remain at the rumour stage, but the market is beginning to heat up as clubs across Europe prepare for another busy summer.

Haiti won 4-0 against New Zealand in a World Cup warm up in Miami [AFP via Getty Images]Scotland's World Cup opponents Haiti warmed up for the sides' opener by thumping New Zealand in Florida.Steve Clarke's side will play Haiti on 14 June in Boston in Group C, before facing Morocco and Brazil.Haiti dominated a New Zealand side which contained Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood, Motherwell's Elijah Just, and new Dundee United signing Jesse Randall, but is the lowest ranked nation at this summer's finals, sitting three below their opponents.Ruben Providence struck after 12 minutes at Inter Miami CF Stadium and substitute Lenny Joseph doubled the lead for the Caribbean nation six minutes after the restart.Frantzdy Pierrot grabbed a third with a header after the hour-mark before Markhus Lacroix finished the ​job with a long-range effort late on.Haiti's buildup to the match had been complicated by visa trouble for midfielder Woodensky Pierre, the squad's only player based in the Caribbean nation.Pierre was unable to play against New Zealand because his visa was not approved by US authorities until too late.He landed at Miami airport around half-time with Haitian soccer officials and hoped to catch the last part of the game, a spokesperson told news agency Reuters.World Cup fixtures and group standingsHow to watch the World Cup on the BBCEverything you need to know about the World Cup

InternationalsHaiti 4 - 0 New Zealand FTHaiti won 4-0 against New Zealand in a World Cup warm up in Miami [AFP via Getty Images]Scotland's World Cup opponents Haiti warmed up for the sides' opener by thumping New Zealand in Florida.Steve Clarke's side will play Haiti on 14 June in Boston in Group C, before facing Morocco and Brazil.Haiti dominated a New Zealand side which contained Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood, Motherwell's Elijah Just, and new Dundee United signing Jesse Randall, but is the lowest ranked nation at this summer's finals, sitting three below their opponents.Ruben Providence struck after 12 minutes at Inter Miami CF Stadium and substitute Lenny Joseph doubled the lead for the Caribbean nation six minutes after the restart.Frantzdy Pierrot grabbed a third with a header after the hour-mark before Markhus Lacroix finished the ​job with a long-range effort late on.Haiti's buildup to the match had been complicated by visa trouble for midfielder Woodensky Pierre, the squad's only player based in the Caribbean nation.Pierre was unable to play against New Zealand because his visa was not approved by US authorities until too late.He landed at Miami airport around half-time with Haitian soccer officials and hoped to catch the last part of the game, a spokesperson told news agency Reuters.World Cup fixtures and group standingsHow to watch the World Cup on the BBCEverything you need to know about the World Cup

The Atlanta Falcons have locked up one of their star players through the 2030 season.The Falcons and wide receiver Drake London have agreed to a 4-year contract extension worth $141 million, according to multiple reports. His agent, Andrew Kessler, told ESPN’s Adam Schefter the wide receiver’s contract includes $100 million guaranteed. ESPN reports that London will become the third-highest-paid receiver in the league. pic.twitter.com/cxeiIaUY0r— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) June 2, 2026[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]The Falcons drafted London out of USC with the No. 8 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. Since his debut, London has become a top target for Falcons quarterbacks. In four seasons with Atlanta, London is averaging 12.8 yards per catch with 3,961 total receiving yards and 22 receiving touchdowns. His career-best season happened in 2024 with 100 receptions for 1,271 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

Listening to new Washington Commanders edge rusher Odafe Oweh on Tuesday, you could already hear Dan Quinn's influence.During their second OTA session this summer, Oweh briefly spoke with the media. First, Oweh discussed how new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones' scheme is one he really likes and believes can be successful with this defensive unit. "I think we do a good job of getting a lot of one-on-ones," Oweh said. "You know, attack mentality. That's the style I love to play in, and that I want to continue to play in."Oweh then took it a step further, predicting that this unit would be successful. "I think this defense is really going to allow a lot of people to wreak havoc. Not just me, but D-tackles, D Payne, Charles (Omenihu), KC (K'Lavon Chaisson). So, it will be a lot of havoc, to be honest."The former Ravens' first-round pick (31st overall) in 2021 has had high expectations to be an impactful player. He has had some success in Baltimore and then with the Chargers. He is now being paid much more by the Commanders. How does he handle expectations? "Just focus on the main thing, just getting better every day. I've had expectations since I started playing this sport. Focus on your work, focus on your teammates, the people that are helping you, it's a team game as well. So if you focus on all of that, it is going to take care of itself."Odafe Oweh 12 Games, 7.5 SCK, 28 TKL, 29 Pressures 2025 Season Highlights.Welcome to the Washington Commanders.pic.twitter.com/7yQIsZl2nDhttps://t.co/SnGCEpCM6a— Football Performances (@NFLPerformances) March 9, 2026With the struggles last season here in Washington, what is Oweh looking for to see that this team is headed in the right direction? "The wanting to communicate, the wanting to actually be a team. Obviously, it's a business, and I'm a new guy. It's a whole different team than last year. But this team, everyone is trying to get to know each other, be an actual person. If we do that, then when we go out to war, you will want to fight for your brother. So, I'll say that is number one."Dan Quinn had to be pleased when he heard Oweh had exhibited he is buying into Quinn's vision of a brotherhood, working together for the success of the whole.This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: Odafe Oweh has high expectations in 2026

This NFL offseason has been a whirlwind for Tennessee Titans' starting running back Tony Pollard. He has been a steady workhorse for the team since signing with them during the 2024 offseason, but intrigue around now-Arizona Cardinals running back Jeremiyah Love placed a cloud over his future with the team.Love was a fan favorite to be drafted by the Titans with the fourth overall pick of the draft to take over the RB position and become the go-to playmaker for the offense. However, the Cardinals picked Love ahead of the Titans at number three, leading to wide receiver Carnell Tate being selected at number four.Despite the close call of Pollard facing another challenger for his starting role, he has remained steadfast in doing his best to maintain the production he has provided the franchise over the last two seasons.Consistency is key for PollardRunning back wasn't a position regarded as a high need for the Titans entering this offseason, but the potential of drafting the best available offensive playmaker in Love was enticing. With Pollard and Tyjae Spears under contract for one more year, selecting their RB of the future became part of their decision-making process.The fortunate reality of their situation is that Pollard was productive and is ready to continue providing production for them regardless. He's one of only two RBs in the NFL to rush for 1,000+ yards in four consecutive seasons (former Titan Derrick Henry is the other), and has played in at least 15 games every year since entering the NFL in 2019.He has been the model of consistency throughout his career with both the Dallas Cowboys and the Tennessee Titans. Entering the final year of his three-year, $21.75 million contract, Pollard is approaching his preparation with the same mentality that has made him a success in his NFL career to date.This article originally appeared on Titans Wire: Tennessee Titans: Consistency is key for Tony Pollard

The Bay State certainly has a history of hooping. That includes the South Shore, which has seen a number of elite high school girls basketball players come out of the area.In honor of the United States' 250th birthday, we're taking a deep dive into the local girls basketball scene to showcase the best high school players to ever come out of the area. Upon extensive research, we picked out the South Shore's top 10 high school girls basketball players ever.Each player has a multitude of accolades, but who should be put at the top? Cast a vote for who should be named the best all-time South Shore high school girls basketball player. Voting is unlimited.Print readers can vote at patriotledger.com. Our try at the 10 best candidates is below, listed in alphabetical order.The pollWho’s the greatest South Shore high school girls basketball player player of all time?The candidatesLauren Battista, Oliver AmesOne of the best players to play under high school girls basketball coaching legend Laney Clement-Holbrook, Battista led OA to a Division 2 state championship in 2010. She earned Gatorade Player of the Year honors for Massachusetts that year with 22 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals per game. Battista then won a national championship as a senior at Bentley University, where she graduated with a program record 2,116 points. Battista is now the head coach of Princeton women's basketball.Kim Cummings, BrocktonCummings finished out her career at Brockton High by being selected as the Massachusetts Gatorade Player of the Year in 1992. The year prior, Cummings led the Boxers to a state championship. Another player from the South Shore who played collegiately at Bentley, Cummings became the program's second all-time leading scorer at the time. She finished her career in 1996 with 1,701 points and 777 rebounds. After college, Cummings played overseas professionally in Norway.Asiah Dingle, Archbishop WilliamsDingle possesses a lengthy list of accolades from her time at Archies. Dingle led the Bishops to three Massachusetts high school girls basketball state titles in 2015, 2017, and 2018 and was a McDonald's All-American Game nominee. Dingle was also a two-time All-USA Massachusetts Girls Basketball Team selection by USA Today, and a three-time Catholic Central League MVP. Averaging 19 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 5 steals per game as a senior, she was named to the Boston Herald Dream Team and finished her career with 1,564 points. Dingle went on to play collegiately at Kent State and Stony Brook.Val Driscoll, Archbishop WilliamsThe 6-foot-4 paint protector from Stoughton led the Bishops to consecutive Division 3 state championships in 2007-08. There, she was a four-time Catholic Conference All-Star and lead the league in scoring twice. Driscoll averaged 19.4 points per game as a senior and became the first player in school history to record 1,000 career rebounds. As a junior, she reached 1,000 career points. Driscoll continued her basketball career in the Big Ten, playing for the University of Michigan.Caroline Ducharme, Milton/Noble & Greenough SchoolAnother Massachusetts Gatorade Player of the Year originating from the South Shore, Ducharme became a star at Noble & Greenough in Dedham by way of Milton. As a senior, she averaged a gaudy 31 points and 15 rebounds to go along with 5 assists, 4 steals, and 4 blocks per game, earning her McDonald's All-American status. Ducharme played collegiately for the UConn Huskies. She battled injuries for much of her career but was with the team for the national title run in 2025 and 2026 Final Four appearance.Keri Flynn, RocklandIn 2000, Flynn led the Bulldogs to a Massachusetts high school girls basketball state championship. Finishing her career with a massive total of 2,405 points, Flynn remained the fifth all-time leading scorer in state history for a decade after. In 2014, Flynn became the first athlete at Rockland to have their number retired. She also set the single-game scoring record as a junior, going for 47 points vs. East Bridgewater.Orlagh Gormley, North Quincy/ Dexter SouthfieldGormely was a standout at two different programs during her high school career. Aa a senior at Dexter Southfield, Gormley earned Gatorade Player of the Year honors, averaging 22.1 points and 9.2 rebounds per game during the team's run to the NEPSAC semifinals. Prior to Dexter Southfield, Gormely was a star for her hometown of North Quincy. She earned Patriot League MVP as a sophomore and scored a city-record 56 points against Masconomet in the MIAA state tournament. Gormley now plays at Providence College.Nicole Jorgensen, QuincyJorgensen is one of the best rebounders and shot blockers to come out of the South Shore. As a senior, Jorgensen set the program's single-season points (507) and rebounds (384) record, helping Quincy win the Patriot League Championship. She averaged 22 points, 16.7 rebounds, and 4.0 blocks per game that year. The two-time Patriot League MVP scored 1,274 career points and grabbed a program record 1,159 rebounds in her career. Jorgensen became the first player in the city's history to record 28 rebounds in a single game. She also holds the city record for most blocks in a season, career, and single game. Jorgensen went on to play at the University of Rhode Island and earned Atlantic 10 All-Conference First Team honors.Grace Oliver, Norwell/Noble & GreenoughOliver split her high school career between her hometown of Norwell and Noble & Greenough School. As a junior at Nobles, she earned Gatorade Player of the Year honors. Previously, she was named MVP of the South Shore League Sullivan Division. She scored 1,000 points in two seasons with the Clippers. As a senior at Nobles, Oliver averaged 13 points, 11 rebounds, and 4 blocks during the team's run to the NEPSAC semifinals. Oliver was the 60th ranked recruit nationally in her class. She went on to start her collegiate career at Colorado, transferred to Wake Forest, and is now back home, playing for Boston College.Ashley Russell, BraintreeRussell led Braintree to one of the most dominant runs in girls high school basketball on the South Shore. Russell was a Gatorade Player of the Year twice at Braintree. In four seasons, she led the Wamps to a 95-7 record. That included a perfect 25-0 season to finish her career as a back-to-back MIAA state champion. In 2015, Russell continued her basketball career at Penn, where she earned All-Ivy League second team honors as a senior.This article originally appeared on The Enterprise: Vote for the greatest South Shore girls basketball player of all time

Bayern revive interest in USMNT starAccording to multiple reports, Bayern Munich are closing in on the signing of Ismael Saibari – but it appears he is not the only PSV player the German double winners are looking at.Eindhovens Dagblad reports that Dutch right-back Sergiño Dest is also on Bayern’s shortlist and could be signed in addition to Saibari.The report mentions a fee in the region of €23-25 million for the 25-year-old, who is set to represent the United States at the World Cup.It's not the first time Bayern have been linked with Dest. Many years ago, the Bavarians considered a move for the defender when he was playing for Ajax, but he instead joined FC Barcelona in 2020 before later returning to the Netherlands to play for PSV.

Five Drury baseball standouts have been selected for 2026 Academic All-District honors by the College Sports Communicators (CSC), the organization announced Tuesday, June 2. The 2026 Academic All-District Baseball Teams, selected by the CSC membership, recognize the nation's top student-athletes for their combined performances on the field and in the classroom.Headlining Drury's contingent, senior outfielder Connor Bain earned his third straight CSC Academic All-District honor, while sophomore infielder Jackson Crider was honored by the CSC for the second year in a row. Additionally, junior infielder Colin McClure, junior outfielder Greydon Miller and senior pitcher Nick Panagos earned the first CSC Academic All-District honors of their Drury careers.Nominees for CSC Academic All-District honors must maintain a 3.5 cumulative grade-point average and compete in 90% of the institution's games played or must start in at least 66% of the institution's games. For pitchers, a student-athlete must have made at least 17 appearances or pitched 35 innings. Student-athletes selected as CSC Academic All-America finalists will advance to the national ballot to be voted on by CSC members.Bain was a First-Team D2CCA All-Midwest Region selection as an outfielder this spring after hitting a team-best .406 with 10 home runs and a Drury single-season record 68 runs batted-in. The Troy, Illinois product batted .444 in Great Lakes Valley Conference play and totaled 25 multi-hit and 17 multi-RBI performances overall for the Panthers. He earned All-GLVC honors for a third consecutive season after the league's coaches tabbed him for first-team recognition.Crider earned his second consecutive CSC Academic All-District nod and was a repeat All-Midwest Region choice of the ABCA and D2CCA after earning first-team honors in 2025. The redshirt sophomore batted .395 with nine home runs and 54 RBIs in 53 games this season. The San Antonio, Texas product led the conference in hit by pitches (28) and ranked sixth among all GLVC hitters in on-base percentage (.506) and runs scored (64).McClure earned a spot on the CSC's Academic All-District team following a strong debut season with the Panthers in which he hit .329 with five home runs and 33 RBIs. McClure started 48 of Drury's 53 games, primarily helping anchor the infield as the Panthers' second baseman. The Mt. Vernon, Illinois native was nearly flawless in the field, turning in a .989 fielding percentage with just two errors in 179 total defensive chances.Miller recorded a memorable 2026 campaign at the plate after being sidelined due to an injury last spring. The Ozark native batted .371 with three homers and 54 RBIs — all career highs for the junior — while starting 47 games for the Panthers. Miller totaled 23 multi-hit games and logged an 11-game hit streak earlier in the spring.Panagos earned his first CSC Academic All-District citation after helping anchor the Panthers' starting pitching rotation with a 4-1 mound mark and 34 strikeouts over 41.1 innings spanning 15 total appearances. The St. Charles product went 2-1 in GLVC play and established career highs for wins, appearances, innings pitched and strikeouts.Drury concluded the 2026 season with a 32-21 overall record, as well as a 22-10 GLVC mark to tie for third place in the conference's regular-season standings.This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Five Drury baseball players earn academic honors

On to the regional round.High school baseball sectional champions are crowned and now the attention turns to Saturday’s regional games. The winners on Saturday will advance to the four-team semistate groups on June 13. The state finals are set for June 19-20 at Victory Field.Follow Insider @THEAkeemGlaspie for updates throughout the tournament.Class 4ANORTHAt LaPorteNo. 7 Penn (23-6) vs. No. 5 Valparaiso (23-7), 4 p.m.At Fort Wayne CarrollFort Wayne Snider (14-10) vs. Huntington North (21-4), 3 p.m.At South Bend Adams (Four Winds Field)Goshen (22-6) vs. Lake Central (24-8), 2 p.m.At Kokomo (Kokomo Municipal Stadium)Zionsville (16-14) vs. Harrison (West Lafayette) (19-10), 7 p.m.SOUTHAt Center GroveNo. 1 Center Grove (25-1) vs. Richmond (13-14), 11 a.m.At Jennings CountyColumbus North (19-11) vs. No. 10 Bloomington South (20-6), 3 p.m.At Evansville Reitz (Bosse Field)Jeffersonville (15-10) vs. No. 3 Evansville North (26-4), 3 p.m.At PlainfieldNorth Central (20-6) vs. Avon (17-15-1), 3 p.m.Class 3ANORTHAt NorthWoodNorthWood (17-10-1) vs. Highland (13-16), 5 p.m.At South Bend Adams (Four Winds Field)No. 10 New Prairie (22-6) vs. No. 1 Andrean (27-3), 11 a.m.At Oak HillNorwell (18-8) vs. Delta (15-10), 3 p.m.At LogansportNo. 3 Western (26-2) vs. No. 5 DeKalb (20-4), 3 p.m.SOUTHAt Center GroveNo. 8 Cathedral (20-9-1) vs. No. 9 Shelbyville (20-4), 3 p.m.At MooresvilleNo. 2 Guerin Catholic (24-3-1) vs. Northview (17-8), 3 p.m.At Evansville Reitz (Bosse Field)No. 4 Gibson Southern (25-6) vs. Evansville Memorial (17-8), 11 a.m.At Floyd CentralProvidence (24-5) vs. Batesville (17-10), 3 p.m.Class 2ANORTHAt NorthWoodBremen (20-7) vs. Bluffton (16-10), 1 p.m.At LogansportHebron (17-10-1) vs. Lakeland (23-8), 11 a.m.At Kokomo (Kokomo Municipal Stadium)No. 2 Eastbrook (25-4) vs. Eastern (Greentown) (21-11), 3 p.m.At Lafayette Jeff (Loeb Stadium)Lapel (16-7) vs. Lafayette Central Catholic (24-6), 3 p.m.SOUTHAt MooresvilleGreencastle (24-4) vs. No. 9 University (20-10), 11 a.m.At JasperSullivan (22-3) vs. No. 3 Brownstown Central (25-4), 11 a.m.At MitchellSalem (16-10) vs. No. 1 Evansville Mater Dei (26-3), 3 p.m.At PlainfieldHeritage Christian (16-9-1) vs. No. 8 Hagerstown (21-6), 11 a.m.Class ANORTHAt LaPorteNo. 1 Kouts (28-1) vs. South Central (Union Mills) (13-9), noonAt Fort Wayne CarrollFort Wayne Blackhawk Christian (8-14) vs. No. 5 Caston (21-5), 11 a.m.At Oak HillNorth Miami (18-12) vs. Monroe Central (11-15), 11 a.m.At Lafayette Jeff (Loeb Stadium)Riverton Parke (17-12) vs. No. 10 Rossville (18-11), 11 a.m.SOUTHAt Jennings CountyHauser (18-4) vs. North Decatur (15-8), 11 a.m.At Jasper (Ruxer Field)No. 4 Northeast Dubois (20-5) vs. No. 9 Shakamak (19-5), 3 p.m.At Floyd CentralNorth Daviess (14-14) vs. West Washington (19-7), 11 a.m.At MitchellLiberty Christian (6-9) vs. Greenwood Christian (16-7), noonCall Star reporter Kyle Neddenriep at (317) 444-6649.Get IndyStar's high school coverage sent directly to your inbox with the High School Sports newsletter. And be sure to subscribe to our new IndyStarTV: Preps YouTube channel.This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: IHSAA baseball regionals: Statewide pairings, schedule, scores

Florentino Perez confirms Real Madrid will announce first summer signing this weekReal Madrid supporters may not have to wait much longer for the club’s first major move of the summer transfer window.With the presidential elections entering their decisive stage, Florentino Perez has provided one of the strongest indications yet regarding Real Madrid’s plans for next season, revealing that the club’s first signing will be officially announced this week.Speaking in an interview with El Español, the long-serving president touched on several key topics, including the transfer market, the managerial situation, the election campaign and the promises he is making to members ahead of Sunday’s vote.Most notably, Perez suggested that a significant addition to the squad is already lined up and ready to be unveiled.“Everyone knows that if I remain president of Real Madrid, the best players in the world will play here.”When asked directly about summer reinforcements, Perez left little room for doubt regarding his intentions.Perez will announce a new signing this week. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)“Of course. This Thursday I will announce Real Madrid’s first major signing for next season. Everyone knows what my sporting project is: to have the best players and keep winning.”Perez hints at major week for Real MadridThe revelation immediately raises expectations around the Santiago Bernabeu, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding several areas of the squad.While Perez did not reveal the identity of the player in question, his comments strongly suggest that negotiations have already been completed and that only the official presentation remains.“We’ll have names announced before Sunday, don’t worry. People do not doubt it; people know me. I’ve always generated excitement throughout my 23 years as president.“Those who know me know that the best players will be at Real Madrid and that we’ll win another Champions League title.”The president also indicated that supporters will not have to wait much longer for clarity regarding the managerial position.Perez has talked about Jose Mourinho. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)When questioned about the possibility of Jose Mourinho returning to the club, Perez chose not to address the Portuguese coach directly but confirmed that an announcement is approaching.“I will announce who the new Real Madrid manager will be shortly.”On Enrique RiquelmeThe comments arrive amid growing tension between Perez and presidential challenger Enrique Riquelme, who has recently questioned several aspects of the current administration.Responding to Riquelme’s proposal to appoint Raul Gonzalez as sporting director, Perez said,“I think it’s fine, though I don’t know if he’s spoken to him. Agents are calling me, saying that (Riquelme) is talking to players and telling them: ‘Don’t say no’. “I don’t believe a word he says. One of the signings he mentioned was Rodri, but obviously he hasn’t sealed the deal.”Perez’s initiativeBeyond transfers and managerial decisions, Perez is also attempting to strengthen the bond between the club and its members.One of the flagship proposals of his campaign is the creation of an exclusive annual shirt that will only be available to official members, reinforcing his message that Real Madrid will remain a member-owned institution.“An exclusive official shirt featuring a unique badge reserved for the club’s true owners.“It will be a shirt that cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. “We want to foster a sense of belonging to Real Madrid in this way because no one in the world, except for members, will be able to get hold of it,” he concluded.

Anthony Weaver isn't concerned about Roquan Smith's ability to return to elite form. Asked whether Smith can reach the level he displayed during the Ravens' dominant 2023 season, Weaver gave a simple answer."Yes," Weaver said.The defensive coordinator said Smith continues to serve as the heartbeat of Baltimore's defense."Roquan communicates, he captains our defense, gets guys aligned and is playing at an elite level [and] speed," Weaver said.According to Weaver, Smith's command of the defense is obvious during practices."There's some guys, when they operate, it almost looks like the game is in slow motion," Weaver said. "When he's out there right now, I feel that way."The veteran linebacker has heard criticism following last season, but Weaver believes he'll respond the same way he always has."I look forward to him shutting up some doubters," Weaver said.If Smith performs at the level Weaver expects, the Ravens defense could once again rank among the league's best.This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Anthony Weaver backs Roquan Smith for dominant 2026 season

England Women produced a stunning batting display to defeat India Women by six wickets in the third and final T20I at Taunton, sealing the three-match series 2-1 ahead of the upcoming Women's T20 World Cup.After winning the toss and opting to bowl, England faced a daunting target of 181 runs. India posted a competitive 180/5 in their 20 overs, thanks to a captain's knock from Harmanpreet Kaur, who remained unbeaten on 56. Valuable contributions from Jemimah Rodrigues and Deepti Sharma helped India finish strongly and put the hosts under pressure.England's chase got off to a shaky start as they slumped to 38/3 inside the powerplay. However, what followed was a match-winning partnership that completely changed the contest. Alice Capsey played one of the finest innings of her international career, smashing 82 runs off just 43 deliveries. She found an ideal partner in former captain Heather Knight, who remained unbeaten on 70 and registered her fastest T20I half-century.The duo added a remarkable 137 runs for the fourth wicket, guiding England to 184/4 with nine balls to spare. The chase became England's highest successful T20I run chase in eight years and one of their best batting performances in recent times.Capsey's aggressive strokeplay earned her the Player of the Match award, while the victory handed England a crucial confidence boost ahead of the Women's T20 World Cup. England head coach Charlotte Edwards praised the team's composure under pressure and highlighted Capsey's continued development as a key player in the squad.Despite the defeat, India showed plenty of positives, particularly through Harmanpreet's unbeaten half-century and a strong overall batting effort. However, England's record-breaking partnership ultimately proved the difference in a high-scoring series decider. 131477447Result: England Women 184/4 (18.3 overs) beat India Women 180/5 (20 overs) by 6 wickets. England won the series 2-1.Brief scores: India Women 180/5 in 20 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 56*, Yastika Bhatia 32; Lauren Bell 2-36) lost to England Women 184/4 in 18.3 overs (Alice Capsey 82, Heather Knight 70*; Arundhati Reddy 2-31) by 6 wickets

Vegas Golden Knights (39-26-17, in the Pacific Division) vs. Carolina Hurricanes (53-22-7, in the Metropolitan Division)Raleigh, North Carolina; Thursday, 8 p.m. EDTLINE: Hurricanes -162, Golden Knights +135; over/under is 6STANLEY CUP FINAL: Golden Knights lead series 1-0BOTTOM LINE: The Vegas Golden Knights visit the Carolina Hurricanes in the Stanley Cup Final with a 1-0 lead in the series. The teams meet Tuesday for the fourth time this season. The Golden Knights won 5-4 in the previous matchup.Carolina is 35-12-2 at home and 53-22-7 overall. The Hurricanes have a 28-9-2 record when scoring a power-play goal.Vegas is 39-26-17 overall and 26-16-8 on the road. The Golden Knights have a 49-7-11 record when scoring three or more goals.TOP PERFORMERS: Seth Jarvis has 32 goals and 34 assists for the Hurricanes. Nikolaj Ehlers has six goals and four assists over the past 10 games.Mitchell Marner has 24 goals and 56 assists for the Golden Knights. Jack Eichel has one goal and nine assists over the past 10 games.LAST 10 GAMES: Hurricanes: 8-2-0, averaging 3.5 goals, 6.2 assists, 5.1 penalties and 13.4 penalty minutes while giving up two goals per game.Golden Knights: 8-2-0, averaging 3.7 goals, 6.4 assists, 3.2 penalties and 7.7 penalty minutes while giving up 2.2 goals per game.INJURIES: Hurricanes: None listed.Golden Knights: None listed.___The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

[Getty Images]The potential appointment of Andoni Iraola brings with it a point of heightened risk at Liverpool.Iraola, 43, will undertake the biggest job of his career, with fans and experts in some quarters pointing to a lack of major silverware or an absence of immense external expectation in his eight or so years as a manager.Others question him stepping up to such a role. Data shared by BBC Radio 5 Live's Monday Night Club has outlined only Mauricio Pochettino (293 matches) and Brendan Rodgers (166) have broken the 100-game barrier when managers have moved to a big-six club within the Premier League over recent decades. The likes of David Moyes, Nuno Espirito Santo, Graham Potter, Enzo Maresca, Frank Lampard and Thomas Frank have all not reached a century of games after big moves.Adding to Iraola's challenge will be recent anger in the Liverpool fanbase at a perceived drop in standards at Anfield. Supporters have questioned the application of some players, while the intensity and frequency of training has been queried. Others grew frustrated at poor results being positively spun by the departing Arne Slot as an example of how mediocrity was being explained away.One wonders, in a bid to set standards, if Iraola could turn to the now-retired James Milner as part of his backroom staff.From a public relations standpoint, Milner - a Premier League and Champions League winner at Anfield - would connect Liverpool's future with its past, a trait many Kopites - young and old - tend to appreciate. Furthermore, he would command instant respect in the changing room while any new head coach earned his own, offering the chance to demand of players and set standards from the off.As thing stand, Liverpool are yet to approach Bournemouth over bringing his former assistants Tommy Elphick - a lifelong Liverpool fan - and Shaun Cooper to Anfield.But could Milner add further quality to the team?Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live's Monday Night Club on Monday, Brighton chief executive Paul Barber outlined the ongoing demands Milner made of those around him before leaving the club to retire."He was determined to set new standards," explained Barber. "He was absolutely not satisfied with anything we did. Everything had to be better. Everything had to be even better than he'd experienced at other clubs, much bigger clubs than ours and with bigger resources than ours. But he didn't see that as a barrier or as an obstacle to improving. That's James Milner. That's what you get. And that's why he's been at the top for such a long time."We were very happy to work with James for another year at least - because his appetite was still there, because his fitness levels were still there, his determination, his professionalism. And I think what people won't necessarily see as easily from the outside looking in is just his influence off the pitch as well as on it, and his support for the younger players, his encouragement for the staff, his determination to make wherever he is better."I mean, there are times when he could be pain as well for me. I remember that last summer we were all enjoying a holiday, the phone rings, I look at it and it's James and I'm thinking 'oh no'. It's a list of things that he wants to see improved at the training ground during the close season so that when he came back in for pre-season things were better than they were when he left them. It's not a five-minute conversation, it's a 45-minute to an hour conversation where he's going into detail as to why he wants these things done and what improvements he thinks they'll bring to the squad. So that's James Milner, as I say, as influential off the pitch as he is on it."As a season of frustration and pointed-fingers makes way for change and new risks, could Milner offer calm and continuity?Tell us what you think[BBC]

Has Nathan Ellis figured out Babar Azam? Aussie reacts after dismissing PAK star again in Lahore originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.KEY TAKEAWAYS: Nathan Ellis took 4/33 and was named Player of the Match in Lahore against Pakistan.Ellis has now dismissed Babar Azam three times in ODI cricket alone.Australia won by 41 runs to level the series before the decider. Nathan Ellis haunts Babar Azam again with a four-wicket haul in Lahore ODINathan Ellis is fast becoming a nightmare for Pakistan, and for Babar Azam in particular, as the Australian right-arm pacer delivered another match-winning performance in the second ODI in Lahore.He finished with figures of 4/33 from nine overs as Pakistan were dismissed for 190 in pursuit of a target of 232, as Australia won by 41 runs to level the series. Babar came to the crease with Pakistan in trouble at 6/2 after early damage, but Ellis trapped him in front for 16 off 16 balls. It was a dismissal that effectively buried Pakistan's chase, as they were reduced to 33/3 in just 4.4 overs. MORE: ‘Something has to give’: Australia star Pat Cummins drops bombshell on IPL 2027 future with SRHIn ODI cricket, Ellis has now removed Babar three times in 61 deliveries, conceding only 68 runs. That gives Babar an average of just 22.7 against him in the 50-over format. The pattern stretches into T20 Internationals as well, where Babar has managed just 21 runs from 13 balls and has been dismissed once by the Australian. 😱 Ellis strikes! Babar Azam departs for 15 runs pic.twitter.com/76rm9Tlzjm— Rehan 56 (@imrehan456) June 2, 2026Despite the numbers stacking up in his favour, Ellis was careful not to undermine Babar. "I haven't got Babar worked out, that's for sure. He's obviously a great," said Ellis bluntly."A bit of assistance from the wicket tonight, and those were the balls that were working. So managed to get one to sneak through, and I think he's well-known to be sort of the linchpin of the batting lineup for Pakistan, so... yeah, to see the back of Babar's...a good sight for us."MORE: 'Only for a job extension': Shoaib Maqsood slams Hesson over 'dusty' Lahore trackEllis also spoke at length about bowling on a surface that differed noticeably from what is typically seen in modern one-day cricket. He tries not to get too caught up in thinking about individual wickets and instead focuses on reading conditions and adjusting as the situation demands. "I try not to think about the wickets too much. Like, it is what it is, you know. It's one of those things, and I just want to adapt on the fly," he said. "I mean, clearly tonight, we saw the fast bowlers going to change up pretty early. We saw reverse swing, and we saw some spin. So it looks a little bit different to the traditional one-day cricket we're seeing around the world at the moment. But, yeah, I do think there's a place for it too."MORE: Have Australia ever won an away ODI series vs Pakistan?Has Nathan Ellis got Babar Azam figured out? #PAKvAUSpic.twitter.com/ILXeJg2HLa— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) June 3, 2026The Cricket News Opinion: Ellis another lethal weapon in Aussie armour before 2027 WCEllis deserves real credit, and not just for the wickets, as he has shown composure on surfaces that demanded something different from his usual game plan. He took the Lahore pitch for what it was, dusty, dry, unpredictable, and used it rather than fighting against it.In South Africa, his skill will be a lethal weapon for the Aussies as he provides variety and depth to an already stacked bowling attack. Whereas, as far as his duel with Babar is concerned, the Pakistan star is too good a batter for one bowler to have permanently solved him, and being modest about it is the smart approach. The moment Ellis starts thinking he has Babar worked out is probably the moment Babar puts him to the boundary. For now, the numbers tell a good story, and so does the scoreboard.To keep up to date with all the latest cricket news and share your opinion on the biggest topics visit our Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter) pages.

About an hour after watching his son run the 110-meter hurdles faster than any high school athlete, Rylan Hainje stood at the chain link fence at Greenfield-Central High School and shook his head.It is hard fathom. Hainje called his son’s rise in the track and field world “magic.” Not that it did not come with work. His son, also named Rylan Hainje, has put in plenty. But to see this rise, from never playing sports to potential Olympian, does feel, well, a little magical.“I’m just so happy for him,” the elder Hainje said of his son, a senior at Franklin Central. “It’s great for him that he found something that he loves to do instead trying to follow in someone’s footsteps. He’s built his own legacy while being a humble, bright kid.”Who knows what he will do next? Last week in the regional meet at Greenfield-Central, Hainje ran the 110-meter hurdles in 13.05 seconds in the preliminaries, a mark that would have been recognized as the best in history for a high school athlete, breaking the mark of 13.08 set by Wayne Davis of Raleigh, N.C., in 2009. However, there was not a wind reading at the meet, meaning it will not be recognized.Which is a shame, because there was little wind. If any, it was not behind him – even it felt that way as he rocketed to the finish line.“I think it was a headwind,” the younger Hainje said.There is one more high school event for Hainje, who will compete at the state track meet on Saturday at North Central. He is the state leader in the 110 hurdles (13.24 seconds in the regional final), sixth in the 300 hurdles (38.06 seconds) and part of two relay teams. The 4x400-meter relay team closed the regional meet with a 3:13.54 mark that broke a 46-year-old state record of 3:13.66 set by Gary West Side. The 4x100 relay team has the fourth-best mark coming into state.If the regional meet is any indication, Hainje is peaking at the right time. Before he gets to the track, he can add another honor to his name: Marion County Male Athlete of the Year.Hainje was voted for the award by the Marion County Athletic Association, an honor that dates to 1950. Other finalists were Pike football and basketball player Muna Newman-Nwodika, Decatur Central football and basketball player Alec Surber and Lawrence North state champion wrestler Michael White.Hainje is an anomaly in more ways than one. He only started running competitively two years ago. So, when his dad responds “never” when asked if he thought all this was possible for his son, he is speaking from a place of honesty.“It probably kicked in for me a little bit more last year, especially during the indoor season,” he said. “Seeing his times drop from the year before to 7.66 (second in the 60-meter indoor hurdles) showed me what he could do. That’s when I was kind of looking like, ‘Let’s see what everybody else in the nation is doing,’ and it was just like, ‘Wow.’”Hainje broke both state meet records in the hurdles’ events in completing the state title sweep last year, posting a time of 13.28 in the 110 hurdles and 35.82 in the 300 hurdles.This season has been even more impressive. Before his 13.05 at the regional meet, Hainje posted a wind-aided 13.09 at the Marion County meet in mid-May. Wind or not, that is flying.“I’ve worked really hard,” Hainje said. “I didn’t have as much time as some of these other kids, but I’ve always the passion to push myself further. I walk into the meets thinking, ‘Oh yeah, I got this,’ or ‘What do I have to lose?’ At the end of the day, I just want to be here for me and do what I can do to make myself better each and every day.”Hainje did not follow in his dad’s footsteps. The elder Hainje was a star basketball player in high school at Cathedral and then in college at Butler, earning a spot in the Butler Athletic Hall of Fame by scoring 1,388 points during his four-year career from 1998-2002.“He’s definitely one of the most humble kids I know,” Hainje said of his son. “He’s probably the complete opposite of me. I almost had an arrogance … I’d call it confidence in myself to go out there and do what I do. He has that confidence on the inside. He doesn’t really bring it out and express himself like that. He’ll go out there and let his game talk for itself. He’ll go out there and kick your butt and then come back and shake your hand. He’s just a great dude. I couldn’t be more proud of him.”Hainje will be off to run next year at Marian University, an NAIA power coming off men’s and women’s indoor national titles. He could have gone Division I. But Hainje is used to taking the path less traveled.“Coach Katie (Wise-Butler) is one of the greatest people I’ve ever talked to,” Hainje said. “I’m close with a lot of people there and just want to push myself even more.”Call Star reporter Kyle Neddenriep at (317) 444-6649.Get IndyStar's high school coverage sent directly to your inbox with the High School Sports newsletter. And be sure to subscribe to our new IndyStarTV: Preps YouTube channel.This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Franklin Central's Rylan Hainje Marion County Male Athlete of Year

What channel is Texas vs. Texas Tech softball on tonight? Time, TV schedule, streaming for Game 1 of WCWS finals originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.After weeks of heated competition, fans might be having deja vu. That's because Texas and Texas Tech are back in the Women's College World Series finals for the second year in a row.After being relegated to the loser's bracket early on in the WCWS, the defending champion Longhorns battled their way back into contention. Despite taking the initial loss to Tennessee to open their campaign in Oklahoma City, Texas defeated the Lady Vols in two straight games Monday to punch their ticket back to the championship.Texas Tech has fought through this season towards redemption, and now has the perfect opportunity to avenge last year's loss in the championship series. NiJaree Canady and the Red Raiders completed a masterful upset of No. 1-seeded Alabama in order to get themselves back into the final for a second straight year.Can Texas go back-to-back, or will Texas Tech be able to flip the script?Here's everything you need to know about Texas vs. Texas Tech softball, including TV channel and streaming options for the WCWS game.What channel is Texas vs. Texas Tech softball on tonight?TV channel: ESPNLive streams:fubo, ESPN appAll three Women's College World Series finals games will be broadcast on ESPN, with Beth Mowins, Michele Smith and Jessica Mendoza on the call.Fans can stream every game via the ESPN app or fubo, which offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)Texas vs. Texas Tech softball start timeDate: Wednesday, June 3Time: 8 p.m. ET | 7 p.m. CTThe best-of-three series will get started at 8 p.m. ET on Wednesday, June 3. The game will be played at OGE Energy Field at Devon Park in Oklahoma City.Women's College World Series finals schedule, scoresDateGameTime (ET)TVWed., June 3Game 1: Texas vs. Texas Tech8 p.m.ESPN, ESPN app, fuboThu., June 4Game 2: Texas Tech vs. Texas8 p.m.ESPN, ESPN app, fuboFri., June 5Game 3: Texas vs. Texas Tech*8 p.m.ESPN, ESPN app, fubo* If necessaryWomen's College World Series champions listHere are the last 10 WCWS winners and runners-up. There was no tournament in 2020 due to COVID-19. YearChampionRunner-up2025TexasTexas Tech2024OklahomaTexas2023OklahomaFlorida State2022OklahomaTexas2021OklahomaFlorida State2019UCLAOklahoma2018Florida StateWashington2017OklahomaFlorida2016OklahomaAuburn2015FloridaMichigan

Roma locked in head-to-head race with Napoli for DodoNapoli and Roma are searching for a full-back who can meet Allegri and Gasperini’s demands. Napoli has swooped in on Khalili, with whom they have an agreement, but the significant gap with Union Saint-Gilloise has put a damper on the deal. This is why Manna has turned to Fiorentina’s Dodo. The Brazilian full-back’s contract expires on June 30, 2027, and he’s also a transfer opportunity for Roma, given that Fiorentina can’t raise their demands too much.Dodo is on the verge of leaving Fiorentina. The Brazilian full-back isn’t expected to renew his contract, which expires in a year, so Fiorentina is listening to offers to avoid losing him on a free transfer.As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, an offer between €12 and €15 million could be enough to convince the Tuscan club to sell the 1998-born player. Dodo is eager to play in the Champions League, a competition both Napoli and Roma will compete in. The Giallorossi have been working on the player for some time and could count on his long-standing friendship with Wesley. The Neapolitans, however, are confident they have what it takes to convince Dodo to embrace the project with Massimiliano Allegri.

Without a dominant candidate in the governor’s race, Democratic voters ultimately wanted to ensure that their party wasn’t shut out of the general election.

FC Barcelona have made an offer to Manchester United for Marcus Rashford that is below the buy option cited in his loan deal according to the Daily Mail and SPORT, which cited anonymous sources.Getty ImagesFC Barcelona have told Manchester United they want to pay a sum for Marcus Rashford that is just half of the buy option fee cited in his loan deal according to the Daily Mail and SPORT, which cited anonymous sources.The English newspaper explains that Barca want to make a bid of $17.4 million (€15 million) for Rashford, which will ultimately be rejeced by the Red Devils.When the La Liga champions agreed to take on Rashford last summer for the 2025/2026 season, a $35 million (€30 million) buy option was inserted into his terms.That expires on June 15, and the Daily Mail suggests that the Blaugrana could wait until after that date to make a low-ball offer, or another proposal to take him on an additional 12 month temporary assignment.Rashford wants to stay at the Spotify Camp Nou where he’s settled, but United can do business with whomever they wish. If the England international has a good World Cup with the Three Lions, European rivals can come in for the 28-year-old and offer United its asking price or even more considering his stock will have risen.If neither Barca nor another outfit take Rashford, he’s set to start a preseason camp in Manchester after England’s World Cup campaign has concluded.FORBES | By Tom SandersonMarcus Rashford: What’s The Feeling Inside Camp Following Anthony Gordon’s Barcelona Move?Is there space for both Marcus Rashford and Anthony Gordon at FC Barcelona?When Barca signed Anthony Gordon for $93 million (€80 million), questions were immediately raised as to whether the two left wingers can co-exist in Hansi Flick’s squad considering there’s also Raphinha to think about.Rashford’s camp aren’t worried about Gordon because they knew Deco and Co. would go after the former Newcastle United man. Yet while they primarily operate on the same flank for club and country, Rashford offers other qualities elsewhere.We saw him on the right towards the back end of the recently concluded season, where he won the league for the first time in his career. Rashford provided a wonderful assist for Robert Lewandowski with a cross the Pole headed home against Alaves, and can be an alternative to Lamine Yamal there.At a time when Barcelona is battling to land Julian Alvarez, Rashford can be a central front man too. The club has reportedly agreed terms with the Argentine, but getting Atletico Madrid to accept an offer of $116 million (€100 million) for him is a different matter entirely.This article was originally published on Forbes.com

INDIANAPOLIS — Kira Smith is allergic to chicken.She’s different than most. It’s May 13. Smith is upstairs inside the Warren Central gym doing stretches. She’s alone. The rest of her track and field teammates are doing their exercises on the gym's main floor. Today is a recovery practice. The usual regimen after a meet. It’s optional, but Smith doesn’t miss these. A day earlier at the Marion County Championships, Smith posted a 6-foot-1 leap in high jump. It’s the second-best jump in the world among high school athletes. “I would’ve let her go for 6-2 if I didn't have to sleep next to the track coach,” joked Steve Smith, Kira’s father and Warren Central’s jump coach, as he stood upstairs. Kira won the 300 hurdles with a personal best time of 44.58 at county. Steve’s wife, Le’gretta, is the head coach of the Warriors’ track and field team and trains Kira in hurdles. Kira will participate in the 300 hurdles and high jump at state Friday. Kira completes her stretches and approaches “coach” Smith. “Mom” and “Dad” rarely come out of Kira’s mouth at practice. Steve gives Kira the green light to go downstairs and get ready.Kira has a softball game in roughly three hours. And the struggling Warriors desperately need their best player. And Kira needs softball. There’s freedom in the dugout. Absent is the pressure that comes with being the coach’s daughter. But before she changes out of her t-shirt and sweatpants into her softball attire, Kira has a stop to make. “I’m going to go hang out with my friends,” she says, referencing her track teammates, as she makes her way downstairs. An intense food allergy gave her the willpower needed to reach the top of high jump and softball. Once Kira got there, intentionality in being “just one of the girls” and a “regular” high schooler became a priority. The pursuit of normalcy fuels the 16-year-old on her path to prestige.Kira Smith balances softball and track with allergy struggles Track practices are structured around high jump. Le’gretta understands it takes precedence over hurdles. Hurdle techniques and high jump drills occur on the same day. If Kira needs to run, high jump happens later in the week. It’s a “delicate balance,” Smith said, that requires the “right hand to know what the left is doing.”Track meets usually took place on Tuesday, Thursday and some Saturdays during the season. Softball games were held on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Kira goes to track practice at 2:30, 30 minutes earlier than the normal start time, and finishes by 4:15 on softball game days. She doesn’t attend softball practice or games on the day of track meets. Kira arrives home on meet and softball game days at about 9:30 p.m. Some nights, Gatorade is dinner. Each spring day consists of rounding bases or leaping over crossbars. Communication with coaches and time management are the biggest challenges for Kira during this time. “Sometimes carrying some of the pressure, it's a lot,” Kira said. “But I just have to stay grounded and remind myself that I am good, I've been working hard and I've been working for these moments, and try to talk to my teammates to make sure we're all on the same page, and just to help take some of that pressure off.”There’s little time to watch her favorite TV show, Money Heist, crochet or relish in her library of books. Spring comes with minimal room for leisure. Homework gets done when Kira doesn’t have a softball game, in between practice or during dedicated work time in class. Steve may encourage Kira to sleep in or take a day off from school during the spring. But grades are too important for the 4.042 GPA student. And she can’t afford to miss culinary class. Kira is allergic to eat peanuts, raw eggs, raw flour, raw wheat, chicken and all fish except squid. Kira carries an EpiPen at all times. Culinary class provides her space to explore meals that fit her diet, such as Mediterranean salads, various soups or empanadas. Steaks are Kira’s go-to, which will make Kira an “expensive date,” her doctor says. “I'm very indecisive, so when it comes to making decisions, it can get a little tricky, like even when it just comes to what I want to eat for dinner,” Kira said. “Picking stuff is hard, so I have to make sure that I'm doing what's best for me and my future, and that I know my goals and what I'm working towards.”Added Le'gretta: “She loved some Chick-fil-A and Raising Cane's, but she’s OK with (her allergies). She doesn’t ask ‘Why me?’ and it translates to sport because it helps her pay more attention to detail, knowing that you can't just go anywhere and just eat anything. You have to ask questions.”‘I sometimes downplay what I’ve done to be a high schooler’It’s May 4. Kira is outside doing sprints with track and softball teammate Gabi Hilliard, withstanding the rain and heavy winds, while the rest of the team are under the bleachers. Practice moves inside, where Kira is among the first to grab the wickets and high jump landing mat out the equipment room. In eight days, Kira will record the second highest jump in the world. But for Kira, status and stardom don’t excuse her from service. Kira lines up about 50 feet from the crossbar, exhales and begins her curved run to the mat. Bar cleared. Kira, with an impassive face, looks at “coach” for feedback. “Dad” says a few words, all to which Kira nods her head in agreement. She’s “coachable,” Le’gretta boasts. Kira does the same thing four more times. Exhale. Run. Clear. “It can get boring,” Steve admits. But Kira finds a way to fall more and more in love with it. As she elevates a fifth time, Kira relaxes her hands — a tendency that causes trouble in softball. When Kira does a curl hop, the outfielder will sometime let go of the ball as she’s about to throw it. It’s her body's natural reaction after three years of doing high jump. But in the moment, her mind is fully focused on softball. Steve likened Kira to Deion Sanders, who played in the Super Bowl and World Series. “Once one sport is done, she’s totally immersed in the other,” he said. But once both are done, she’s back to being a kid. “I don’t know if I’d say I feel lonely at the top because I like to perform and then let myself be a high schooler,” Kira said. “I sometimes downplay what I’ve done as a high schooler. I'm very proud of myself, but when I'm with my teammates, I let them congratulate me. I like to congratulate them and make sure we're all just getting the recognition that we deserve, because at the end of the day, we're all high schoolers and we're all out here to compete and have fun.” Though softball is “less stressful” for Kira, she will focus on high jump in college and doesn’t plan to play softball. “I’ll miss it,” she said of softball, before admitting it’s harder to make friends in track since it’s an individual sport.But Kira praised both her softball and track teammates for keeping her motivated to compete at a high level in each sport. She does the same for her teammates, including Hilliard.Hilliard and Kira first met during Hilliard’s freshman year in 2024. Hilliard, who is reserved, said it took a season for Kira to break her shell. Hilliard praised Kira for being welcoming and “very nice,” one who “can understand people and not judge.” “I used to get nervous before I ran, but now I know that I can do it. She is a role model, not just with sports, but she makes me want to be more outgoing, too,” Hilliard said. “She builds my confidence. Sometimes, I talk negatively about myself, but she makes me talk positively.”Kira’s track teammates often ask one another, “What do you think Kira is thinking?” One minute, she’s dominating in an event. The next, she’s walking around with a blank expression. Dad believes it’s her “being happy with who she is.” Mom says it’s how she calms herself down. Both are right.“It’s me trying to focus on my breathing, because my heart will get fast. I get really anxious when I have something else to run. It pulls my focus away from high jump, so I have to remind myself that I have time, and that whatever happens is going to be OK,” Kira revealed. Kira follows family tradition in track, carves own path in softballKira was a long jumper until seventh grade, when she asked her dad to teach her high jump. Kira’s height made Steve hesitant to let her compete. A growth spurt heading into eighth grade opened the door for Kira to learn the new event. Steve and assistant coach Jacob Aldrich expected Kira to jump around 5-4 her freshman season. She posted 5-7 by the middle of the year.The Smith name in track and field was set to reign for another four years. Le’gretta led the Warriors to three team state track championships. Steve won silver in the high jump at the 1994 Pan American Games. Laila, Kira’s older sister, won the 300 hurdles state championship in 2024. Samaya, the second oldest, helped Warren Central capture the 2024 team state title alongside her sisters. Samaya became the first Black tennis state champion from Indianapolis in 2025. Steve believes Samaya’s decision to pursue tennis in high school influenced Kira to be the first in the family to play high school softball. Samaya says her and Laila’s influence started long before. Samaya and Laila weren’t always receptive when Kira asked to play tennis with them. In turn, Kira had time to hone the skills she’d need to lead the Warriors with a .528 batting average during the 2026 season. Warren Central went 7-14, earning its most wins in a season since 2019.Kira first took interest in softball around 7, when she saw her dad watching the women’s college World Series. Steve taught each of his daughters how to catch at a young age. Kira had the skillset to succeed. And the sisterhood to thrive. “Her progression and everything has been quick to keep up with her sisters and I think that allows her not to show much fear,” Steve said. Samaya, who previously struggled with mental health, admires and respects her sister’s “carefree” approach to sport.Le’gretta, the mom, feels the same. Le’gretta, the coach, not so much. “I want to see more of a lion come out,” she said. “If someone on the relay team says they can’t run, she says, ‘Oh, it’s OK.’ I need her to say, ‘We need you.’“She’s a pleaser and she definitely leads by example, but I want her to add that vocal leadership.”Time to be a teenager is coming. First, Kira aims to win state Kira fell over a hurdle at regional on May 26. She still managed to finish third in the 300 hurdles and qualify for state. Afterward, she didn’t beat herself up. Rather, she and Hilliard planned breakfast for the track team on Wednesday.Kira, determined on her quest for greatness in high jump, longs to capture her first individual state medal and lead her team to another state title. But Kira’s desperation is different. The idea of greatness does not consume her. Life for this young teenager is more than the 6-1 leap she can do over a crossbar. It’s sharing a laugh with her friends during track practice that fuels Kira. It’s singing chants in the dugout. Playing card games and Just Dance with her teammates to the point where friendly competition turns serious. It’s coming home, and in stride with her people-pleasing personality, showering her mom with hugs. “She’s not like most teenagers who go to their room and do TikTok,” Le’gretta said. She’s different than most. Kira is learning Japanese now, as if being fluent in Spanish and English at her age isn’t already impressive. Kira wants to join the choir. Kira will compete in the USA Track and Field Nationals from June 17 to June 22 in Oregon and in the National Softball Championships from July 12 to July 18 in Florida. Then she begins a three- to four-months recovery period. Or as Stephen called it, “her time off to be a teenager,” in which Kira can sing all she wants.The Smiths may have an Olympian in the making with Kira. But they don’t foresee a Whitney Houston in their daughter. “I probably won’t encourage a solo, but she can harmonize in the background,” Le’gretta joked. “I ain’t never hear her sing nothing,” Steve added. “This is new to me. She’s always up to something. Maybe somebody heard her sing and said, ‘You can't sing,’ and then she’s now gonna say, ‘OK, watch this.’” Kira embraces a challenge. Chemistry is her favorite subject. She wants to jump 6-4 by the end of high school. It could happen Friday at state. She’s a risk-taker, eager to try new things. A food allergy helped forge a lane to do so.Now Kira runs in it, stopping at will wherever her inquisitive mind is drawn. Joshua Heron is an enterprise and Fever reporter. Follow him on Twitter at @HeronReports.This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Warren Central’s Kira Smith ranks among world’s best high jumpers

INDIANAPOLIS — Kira Smith is allergic to chicken.She’s different than most. It’s May 13. Smith is upstairs inside the Warren Central gym doing stretches. She’s alone. The rest of her track and field teammates are doing their exercises on the gym's main floor. Today is a recovery practice. The usual regimen after a meet. It’s optional, but Smith doesn’t miss these. A day earlier at the Marion County Championships, Smith posted a 6-foot-1 leap in high jump. It’s the second-best jump in the world among high school athletes. “I would’ve let her go for 6-2 if I didn't have to sleep next to the track coach,” joked Steve Smith, Kira’s father and Warren Central’s jump coach, as he stood upstairs. Kira won the 300 hurdles with a personal best time of 44.58 at county. Steve’s wife, Le’gretta, is the head coach of the Warriors’ track and field team and trains Kira in hurdles. Kira will participate in the 300 hurdles and high jump at state Friday. Kira completes her stretches and approaches “coach” Smith. “Mom” and “Dad” rarely come out of Kira’s mouth at practice. Steve gives Kira the green light to go downstairs and get ready.Kira has a softball game in roughly three hours. And the struggling Warriors desperately need their best player. And Kira needs softball. There’s freedom in the dugout. Absent is the pressure that comes with being the coach’s daughter. But before she changes out of her t-shirt and sweatpants into her softball attire, Kira has a stop to make. “I’m going to go hang out with my friends,” she says, referencing her track teammates, as she makes her way downstairs. An intense food allergy gave her the willpower needed to reach the top of high jump and softball. Once Kira got there, intentionality in being “just one of the girls” and a “regular” high schooler became a priority. The pursuit of normalcy fuels the 16-year-old on her path to prestige.Kira Smith balances softball and track with allergy struggles Track practices are structured around high jump. Le’gretta understands it takes precedence over hurdles. Hurdle techniques and high jump drills occur on the same day. If Kira needs to run, high jump happens later in the week. It’s a “delicate balance,” Smith said, that requires the “right hand to know what the left is doing.”Track meets usually took place on Tuesday, Thursday and some Saturdays during the season. Softball games were held on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Kira goes to track practice at 2:30, 30 minutes earlier than the normal start time, and finishes by 4:15 on softball game days. She doesn’t attend softball practice or games on the day of track meets. Kira arrives home on meet and softball game days at about 9:30 p.m. Some nights, Gatorade is dinner. Each spring day consists of rounding bases or leaping over crossbars. Communication with coaches and time management are the biggest challenges for Kira during this time. “Sometimes carrying some of the pressure, it's a lot,” Kira said. “But I just have to stay grounded and remind myself that I am good, I've been working hard and I've been working for these moments, and try to talk to my teammates to make sure we're all on the same page, and just to help take some of that pressure off.”There’s little time to watch her favorite TV show, Money Heist, crochet or relish in her library of books. Spring comes with minimal room for leisure. Homework gets done when Kira doesn’t have a softball game, in between practice or during dedicated work time in class. Steve may encourage Kira to sleep in or take a day off from school during the spring. But grades are too important for the 4.042 GPA student. And she can’t afford to miss culinary class. Kira is allergic to eat peanuts, raw eggs, raw flour, raw wheat, chicken and all fish except squid. Kira carries an EpiPen at all times. Culinary class provides her space to explore meals that fit her diet, such as Mediterranean salads, various soups or empanadas. Steaks are Kira’s go-to, which will make Kira an “expensive date,” her doctor says. “I'm very indecisive, so when it comes to making decisions, it can get a little tricky, like even when it just comes to what I want to eat for dinner,” Kira said. “Picking stuff is hard, so I have to make sure that I'm doing what's best for me and my future, and that I know my goals and what I'm working towards.”Added Le'gretta: “She loved some Chick-fil-A and Raising Cane's, but she’s OK with (her allergies). She doesn’t ask ‘Why me?’ and it translates to sport because it helps her pay more attention to detail, knowing that you can't just go anywhere and just eat anything. You have to ask questions.”‘I sometimes downplay what I’ve done to be a high schooler’It’s May 4. Kira is outside doing sprints with track and softball teammate Gabi Hilliard, withstanding the rain and heavy winds, while the rest of the team are under the bleachers. Practice moves inside, where Kira is among the first to grab the wickets and high jump landing mat out the equipment room. In eight days, Kira will record the second highest jump in the world. But for Kira, status and stardom don’t excuse her from service. Kira lines up about 50 feet from the crossbar, exhales and begins her curved run to the mat. Bar cleared. Kira, with an impassive face, looks at “coach” for feedback. “Dad” says a few words, all to which Kira nods her head in agreement. She’s “coachable,” Le’gretta boasts. Kira does the same thing four more times. Exhale. Run. Clear. “It can get boring,” Steve admits. But Kira finds a way to fall more and more in love with it. As she elevates a fifth time, Kira relaxes her hands — a tendency that causes trouble in softball. When Kira does a curl hop, the outfielder will sometime let go of the ball as she’s about to throw it. It’s her body's natural reaction after three years of doing high jump. But in the moment, her mind is fully focused on softball. Steve likened Kira to Deion Sanders, who played in the Super Bowl and World Series. “Once one sport is done, she’s totally immersed in the other,” he said. But once both are done, she’s back to being a kid. “I don’t know if I’d say I feel lonely at the top because I like to perform and then let myself be a high schooler,” Kira said. “I sometimes downplay what I’ve done as a high schooler. I'm very proud of myself, but when I'm with my teammates, I let them congratulate me. I like to congratulate them and make sure we're all just getting the recognition that we deserve, because at the end of the day, we're all high schoolers and we're all out here to compete and have fun.” Though softball is “less stressful” for Kira, she will focus on high jump in college and doesn’t plan to play softball. “I’ll miss it,” she said of softball, before admitting it’s harder to make friends in track since it’s an individual sport.But Kira praised both her softball and track teammates for keeping her motivated to compete at a high level in each sport. She does the same for her teammates, including Hilliard.Hilliard and Kira first met during Hilliard’s freshman year in 2024. Hilliard, who is reserved, said it took a season for Kira to break her shell. Hilliard praised Kira for being welcoming and “very nice,” one who “can understand people and not judge.” “I used to get nervous before I ran, but now I know that I can do it. She is a role model, not just with sports, but she makes me want to be more outgoing, too,” Hilliard said. “She builds my confidence. Sometimes, I talk negatively about myself, but she makes me talk positively.”Kira’s track teammates often ask one another, “What do you think Kira is thinking?” One minute, she’s dominating in an event. The next, she’s walking around with a blank expression. Dad believes it’s her “being happy with who she is.” Mom says it’s how she calms herself down. Both are right.“It’s me trying to focus on my breathing, because my heart will get fast. I get really anxious when I have something else to run. It pulls my focus away from high jump, so I have to remind myself that I have time, and that whatever happens is going to be OK,” Kira revealed. Kira follows family tradition in track, carves own path in softballKira was a long jumper until seventh grade, when she asked her dad to teach her high jump. Kira’s height made Steve hesitant to let her compete. A growth spurt heading into eighth grade opened the door for Kira to learn the new event. Steve and assistant coach Jacob Aldrich expected Kira to jump around 5-4 her freshman season. She posted 5-7 by the middle of the year.The Smith name in track and field was set to reign for another four years. Le’gretta led the Warriors to three team state track championships. Steve won silver in the high jump at the 1994 Pan American Games. Laila, Kira’s older sister, won the 300 hurdles state championship in 2024. Samaya, the second oldest, helped Warren Central capture the 2024 team state title alongside her sisters. Samaya became the first Black tennis state champion from Indianapolis in 2025. Steve believes Samaya’s decision to pursue tennis in high school influenced Kira to be the first in the family to play high school softball. Samaya says her and Laila’s influence started long before. Samaya and Laila weren’t always receptive when Kira asked to play tennis with them. In turn, Kira had time to hone the skills she’d need to lead the Warriors with a .528 batting average during the 2026 season. Warren Central went 7-14, earning its most wins in a season since 2019.Kira first took interest in softball around 7, when she saw her dad watching the women’s college World Series. Steve taught each of his daughters how to catch at a young age. Kira had the skillset to succeed. And the sisterhood to thrive. “Her progression and everything has been quick to keep up with her sisters and I think that allows her not to show much fear,” Steve said. Samaya, who previously struggled with mental health, admires and respects her sister’s “carefree” approach to sport.Le’gretta, the mom, feels the same. Le’gretta, the coach, not so much. “I want to see more of a lion come out,” she said. “If someone on the relay team says they can’t run, she says, ‘Oh, it’s OK.’ I need her to say, ‘We need you.’“She’s a pleaser and she definitely leads by example, but I want her to add that vocal leadership.”Time to be a teenager is coming. First, Kira aims to win state Kira fell over a hurdle at regional on May 26. She still managed to finish third in the 300 hurdles and qualify for state. Afterward, she didn’t beat herself up. Rather, she and Hilliard planned breakfast for the track team on Wednesday.Kira, determined on her quest for greatness in high jump, longs to capture her first individual state medal and lead her team to another state title. But Kira’s desperation is different. The idea of greatness does not consume her. Life for this young teenager is more than the 6-1 leap she can do over a crossbar. It’s sharing a laugh with her friends during track practice that fuels Kira. It’s singing chants in the dugout. Playing card games and Just Dance with her teammates to the point where friendly competition turns serious. It’s coming home, and in stride with her people-pleasing personality, showering her mom with hugs. “She’s not like most teenagers who go to their room and do TikTok,” Le’gretta said. She’s different than most. Kira is learning Japanese now, as if being fluent in Spanish and English at her age isn’t already impressive. Kira wants to join the choir. Kira will compete in the USA Track and Field Nationals from June 17 to June 22 in Oregon and in the National Softball Championships from July 12 to July 18 in Florida. Then she begins a three- to four-months recovery period. Or as Stephen called it, “her time off to be a teenager,” in which Kira can sing all she wants.The Smiths may have an Olympian in the making with Kira. But they don’t foresee a Whitney Houston in their daughter. “I probably won’t encourage a solo, but she can harmonize in the background,” Le’gretta joked. “I ain’t never hear her sing nothing,” Steve added. “This is new to me. She’s always up to something. Maybe somebody heard her sing and said, ‘You can't sing,’ and then she’s now gonna say, ‘OK, watch this.’” Kira embraces a challenge. Chemistry is her favorite subject. She wants to jump 6-4 by the end of high school. It could happen Friday at state. She’s a risk-taker, eager to try new things. A food allergy helped forge a lane to do so.Now Kira runs in it, stopping at will wherever her inquisitive mind is drawn. Joshua Heron is an enterprise and Fever reporter. Follow him on Twitter at @HeronReports.This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Warren Central’s Kira Smith ranks among world’s best high jumpers

Man Utd to focus on Fernandes after Éderson agreementManchester United have begun talks with West Ham United over Mateus Fernandes after coming to terms over the signing of Éderson.The Red Devils are set to sign the Brazilian from Atalanta for an initial £35 million with a further £3.8 million to be paid in potential add-ons with only a medical and other formalities left before the deal is made official.Éderson's arrival is the beginning of a midfield revamp for Michael Carrick's side which is now set to turn its attention to Fernandes.The Hammers are hoping to get as much as possible for the 21-year-old, who scored four and made four assists in 38 games for the relegated side last season.According to Rob Dawson of ESPN, the Manchester side have already made contact with West Ham over the player.

A Cincinnati Bengals player will fly with the Blue Angels before next week’s CenterPoint Energy Dayton Air Show.[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]Bengals safety Julian Battle will fly with the flight demonstration squadron next week, according to a Dayton Air Show spokesperson.TRENDING STORIES:Firefighters free person trapped in rollover crash in Miami Co.Officer stops vehicle going over 130 mph, more than double the speed limit in OhioNew sushi restaurant ‘coming soon’ to Montgomery CountyHe is the first athlete in years to be chosen by the Blue Angels to fly with them.“We love to see the well-rounded person who’s giving back to the community,” said Shelia Wallace, Media Relations with CenterPoint Energy Dayton Airshow. “That’s what the Blue Angels look for as well.”She added that Battle is committed to mentoring children and is involved with community programs focused on leadership, education, and athletic development.Jordan Battle led the Bengals with 125 combined tackles and four interceptions in 2025. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

A plumes of black smoke is seen over the port of St. Petersburg, Russia, Wednesday, June 3, 2026, after a Ukrainian drone attack. (AP Photo)2026-06-03T08:26:56Z Ukrainian long-range drones struck an oil terminal in St. Petersburg and set it ablaze, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Wednesday, as the Russian city hosted an annual international economic forum promoted by President Vladimir Putin. The drones flew more than 1,000 kilometers (600 miles) to hit the terminal, Zelenskyy said on social media. Clouds of black smoke rose over the city’s port after the attack.Russian authorities said only that the Ukrainian drone strike targeted the city’s infrastructure, without providing further details. The airport of St. Petersburg briefly suspended flights overnight because of the attack. Authorities also cut off mobile internet services.Putin is set to speak Friday at the economic forum in St. Petersburg that the Kremlin views as a prestige event, although major Western investors and officials have stayed away since Russia invaded Ukraine more than four years ago. Saudi Arabia is a special guest country this year and is due to send a large business delegation. The strikes are an embarrassment for Putin, weeks after he had to prune back an annual Victory Day parade in Moscow due to fears of Ukrainian drone attacks. The strikes came a day after Russian forces launched a massive drone and missile attack on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, killing at least 22 civilians and wounding 138, as Moscow followed through with its threat of escalating its regular barrages. Read More With the front line changing little as swarms of drones hinder battlefield movement, both sides have sought an edge by increasingly launching long-range strikes. The war that followed Russia’s invasion of its neighbor has now stretched into its fifth year, with no end in sight.Ukraine’s attacks are aimed at diminishing Russia’s oil production, which is a key source of funding for Moscow, and disrupting weapon production. Ukraine has repeatedly targeted oil facilities at the port of St. Petersburg and nearby ports.Ukrainian drone attacks overnight also hit the Kronstadt naval base, an old base for Russia’s Baltic Fleet, and a manufacturing plant involved in weapon production in Russia’s Tambov region, 600 kilometers (370 miles) from Ukraine, Zelenskyy said.Russia’s Defense Ministry said that air defenses downed 354 Ukrainian drones overnight.In the Russia-controlled part of Ukraine’s Donetsk region, a Ukrainian strike hit a bus that was traveling from Moscow to Crimea, killing seven and injuring 11, according to the Kremlin-appointed head of Donetsk, Denis Pushilin.In the Smolensk region, two firefighters were killed by a Ukrainian drone attack, according to the regional governor, Vasily Anokhin. He said two other firefighters and a local resident were injured.Meanwhile, Russia fired 198 long-range drones at Ukraine last night, according to Ukraine’s air force, with air defenses neutralizing 189. Authorities in Ukraine’s northern Sumy region said that over the previous 24 hours one civilian was killed and 15 more were injured, including three children, by Russian strikes.In the southern Kherson, Russian overnight shelling and drone strikes killed an 86-year-old woman and wounded five other people, according to regional authorities.___Follow the AP’s coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine

An LGBTQ+ pride flag flies beneath a U.S. flag at the Stonewall National Monument in New York, on Oct. 11, 2017. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan, File)2026-06-03T08:01:12Z Acceptance of same-sex marriage and relationships in the U.S. has flattened after more than two decades of steadily increasing support, with an ongoing decline among Republicans, according to a new Gallup poll.About 65% of U.S. adults believe same-sex marriage should be legal, down slightly from 71% in 2022 and 2023. Most of the change is due to dropping acceptance among Republicans. In the new survey, which was conducted in May, only 37% of Republicans say same-sex marriage should be legally valid, while 35% say gay and lesbian relations are “morally acceptable.” The views of Democrats and independents are largely stable in the findings released Wednesday, with most in both groups saying same-sex marriage should be legal and that gay or lesbian relations are moral.The widening partisan divide is also reflected in policy around LGBTQ+ issues across the U.S., particularly regarding transgender people, and a rising push in some states to ban same-sex marriage. Recent shifts have been subtle and partisanThe downtick in support for same-sex marriage, while slight, is still striking because of how dramatically American views on the issue have shifted over the past few decades.According to Gallup’s trend data, only 27% of U.S. adults supported legal same-sex marriage in 1996. Since then, support for same-sex marriage rose steadily until a few years ago, when it peaked with around 7 in 10 U.S. adults saying same-sex marriage should be legal.Opinion about the morality of same-sex relationships followed the same pattern. About 4 in 10 U.S. adults said same-sex relations were morally acceptable in 2001. That increased nearly 30 percentage points over the next two decades.Over the past few years, Gallup’s data has shown signs of a shift in the other direction. In addition to the slight decline on same-sex marriage, the new poll also found that 62% of U.S. adults view gay and lesbian relations as morally acceptable, down from 71% in 2022. Read More Same-sex marriage remains recognized nationwideSame-sex marriage has been recognized nationally since a 2015 Supreme Court ruling. That case capped a 12-year run in which court rulings and state laws recognized it in most states.By last year, there were more than 800,000 married same-sex couples, according to data compiled by the Williams Institute at the University of California Los Angeles School of Law.The pushback has never stopped, though. A call to overturn the 2015 reached the Supreme Court last year, invoking the words of Justice Clarence Thomas, who has called for undoing it. The court turned away the appeal without comment. Last year, the Southern Baptist Convention overwhelmingly called for reversing the ruling that led to nationwide marriage recognition and imposing a ban.Lawmakers in at least 11 states introduced legislation for their current or most recent sessions calling on a ban on same-sex marriage, according to an Associated Press analysis of bills compiled by the legislation tracking service Plural. Most didn’t pick up momentum. But the Tennessee House passed a measure to allow private citizens and organizations not to recognize the unions; Idaho’s House passed a resolution calling on the Supreme Court to undo the 2015 decision. A similar number of states have had measures aimed at protecting same-sex marriage introduced recently. A protester dressed as the Statue of Liberty waves a transgender pride flag outside the Supreme Court in Washington, on Jan. 13, 2026, as it hears arguments over state laws barring transgender girls and women from playing on school athletic teams. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, File) A protester dressed as the Statue of Liberty waves a transgender pride flag outside the Supreme Court in Washington, on Jan. 13, 2026, as it hears arguments over state laws barring transgender girls and women from playing on school athletic teams. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, File) Add AP News on Google Add AP News as your preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Acceptance of transgender people is also downIn a sign that views of LGBTQ+ issues may be shifting more broadly, the new Gallup poll found that about 4 in 10 Americans view changing one’s gender as morally acceptable, down from nearly half in 2021.The rights of transgender people have been a hot-button political issue this decade.Most Republican-controlled states have adopted laws in the last five years to bar gender-affirming medical treatments for transgender minors, restrict which school bathrooms transgender people may use and bar transgender girls and women from some sports competitions.Trump has signed executive orders seeking some of the same policies on a federal level.This week, one of those policies suffered a blow when a court ruled that the military illegally banned transgender troops. ___The Gallup poll, conducted May 1-17, was based on telephone interviews with a random sample of 1,001 U.S. adults. The margin of sampling error for adults overall is plus or minus 4.0 percentage points. GEOFF MULVIHILL Mulvihill covers topics on the agendas of state governments across the country. He has focused on abortion, gender issues and opioid litigation. twitter mailto AMELIA THOMSON-DEVEAUX Thomson-DeVeaux is the AP’s editor for polling and surveys.

The Knicks are New York’s soul, and they are bringing us together again in the championship series against San Antonio.

A case for mourning the American dream.

Addie Dobson wasn’t sure what to do with her downtime. She ultimately settled on the U.S. Women’s Open qualifier at Meadowbrook Country Club in St. Louis rather than the cumbersome four hours of practice on Tuesday, April 28. Coverage from Golfweek: Meet the amateur who took up golf at 15 and is in the U.S. OpenOver 4 years ago: How this Jacksonville Routt golfer became a HS champion in 36 monthsWhat a stupendous decision that turned out to be. The Jacksonville Routt High School graduate rustled up a spot in this week’s U.S. Women’s Open at the Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles, California. Dobson will tee off the first round as one of 28 amateurs on Thursday, June 4 at 4:31 p.m. CT. “It was one of the calmest days I’ve ever been,” Dobson said, “because I almost didn’t even sign up for the qualifier because I was like, ‘What are the odds that I make this? Is this what I want to do?’ It was Tuesday, one of my free off days.“I didn’t think I’d have a chance and I just didn’t really care, and that’s kind of when I play my best is when I don’t have any expectations and it worked.” Arduous qualifier Dobson waded through 36 holes in one day to qualify. Her putter was dialed in and she reeled off eight birdies through the first round. Dobson tried her best to stay in the moment. “I knew I was going low that first round, but I’m not someone who looks at the leaderboard, so I didn’t know where I was sitting,” Dobson said. “My assistant coach (Francesco Guarneri) right after we finished the first round, he was like, ‘Now people might come up to you and say good round or something. Let's stay in the present.’ Then immediately some guy was like, ‘Oh my God, that’s so impressive!'"Dobson and Zoe Cusack each finished 5-under-par 139 to mop up the two qualifying spots for the upcoming major. “I didn’t know I was qualifying until I made that last putt on (No.) 18,” Dobson said. “I three-putted the hole before and got a little lazy. I kind of wish I should have asked, but it worked out.” California dream Everything has almost been a blur since then. Dobson helped vault the University of Missouri women’s golf team to its second ever NCAA Championship appearance, where it recorded its best finish in 12th place. Dobson placed 46th individually at the Omni La Costa Resort and Spa near San Diego, California. She made her first trip to California just the week prior in the NCAA Stanford Regional. Suddenly the count is three. Dobson anticipates plenty of family to tag along this time. “I don’t even know how to describe it, it’s been so fast,” Dobson said. “The other seniors with me (at Omni La Costa) were shedding a lot of tears and I just teared up a little bit on that last hole, but I knew I had the next week, so I couldn’t get too sad because I’ve got so much going on. “I can’t even think. The last month has been just like a dream going to regionals, nationals and now the U.S. Open ... it’s been crazy. It’s been almost magical.” Meteoric rise over eight years It’s certainly been a long but exhilarating journey ever since Dobson received her first set of clubs as a Christmas present in eighth grade. Her first full competitive round of golf didn’t come until high school regionals freshman year. She developed discipline and course management, and just three years later she became The State Journal-Register's Small School Girls Golfer of the Year before attending Missouri. “I always tell people I had stopped getting taller and then golf kind of slid in the picture and I was like, ‘OK, this is kind of working,’” Dobson said. Dobson has lately honed her driver. She has always heralded long distance, but control was problematic. She took a brief pause over the summer to focus on an internship in Kansas City, and the reset helped forge a better swing. She flourished over the fall with two top-10 finishes, while Guarneri helped address those gnawing mental obstacles inherent with the game.“He’s played a huge part in my growth and he was with me a lot on the course this year from fall to spring, just keeping me in the moment,” Dobson said. “He’s someone who’s like, ‘I literally couldn’t care less if you go rope this out of bounds, like who cares? It’s fine.’ That really helped me to just (understand), it’s not that deep. Golf’s not that deep.” This perspective is a major asset to have for something as big as the U.S. Women’s Open. “Taking even just the tee shot on (No.) 1, I was like, ‘Oh God,’” Dobson said of her first practice round on Sunday. “It’s a little intimidating on (No.) 1 and then I kind of got in a rhythm and today (Monday) was a lot better. I got to see Nelly Korda this morning, so a little starstruck there but I settled in quick and got in the rhythm.”This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Jacksonville's Addie Dobson goes from Mizzou to U.S. Women's Open

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School recently launched its first eSports program, offering students a new way to compete and collaborate.The program, which began this spring, features eight students competing in "Super Smash Bros." and "Mario Kart," according to a community announcement. The school plans to expand the game offerings in the future.The initial focus has been on establishing a strong foundation through regular practices, coaching support and collaboration with the district’s IT team to manage the technical aspects of the program.“We are thrilled to have piloted our new eSports program this spring and are excited to see it continue to grow heading into the fall season,” said Matt McKinnon, director of athletics and activities at the high school. “This program highlights how Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School truly has something to offer every student. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or in the arena, we are proud to provide opportunities that allow all of our students to find their place and pursue their passions.”The team has already experienced some exciting moments, including a 6-5 victory over Nipmuc Regional High School in "Super Smash Bros."Coaches Jolie Streeter and Christian Tavares said the program has created a positive team environment where students support and encourage one another while developing their individual gameplay and teamwork skills.“The goal of our eSports program is to provide students with a welcoming, team-based environment where they can build collaboration skills, professionalism, and social confidence through competitive gaming,” Streeter and Tavares said according to the announcement. “It’s been exciting to see students who might not otherwise join a traditional sports team become enthusiastic about showing up to practice each week and competing together.”Although the team will not advance to the playoffs this season, coaches said the program has made significant progress and is already looking ahead to continued growth in the coming seasons."We are extremely excited to offer competitive eSports and have been so proud of the progress our students and moderators made this year,” Principal Dustin Demers said according to the announcement. “This is yet another example of how there is something for everyone at Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School.”School officials hope the program will continue to grow, giving more students an opportunity to participate while building teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills in a competitive and supportive environment.This story was created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.This article originally appeared on The Taunton Daily Gazette: eSports program launched at D-R high school

It's one of the most important parts of any international camp.No, not day one, rest day or even match day. It's golf day.After arriving in Florida on Sunday, the Scotland squad had a light session on Monday in the blistering heat and humidity to loosen up the muscles and recover following their flight from Glasgow.While that was key, it wasn't anywhere near as important as heading to one of the best courses around - the PGA National - for a round.Highly anticipated, highly competitive and an ultimately highly disappointing end made for an interesting afternoon. Play was well under way, and going fairly well for most - not Findlay Curtis and partner George Hirst, the less said on that the better it appears - before the fluctuating Florida weather wreaked havoc.The players were on, off, on and off again for good as an almighty thunderstorm - which actually diverted our flight into Miami on Monday - brought proceedings to an abrupt end.For some, it was a get out of free jail card - looking at you, Findlay and George - while seasoned campaigner and assistant coach Steven Naismith was not so pleased, apparently. Jack Hendry was partnered with Andrew Smith, one of the team's masseurs, and the defender admitted he would "have a sore back from carrying me"."I didn't turn up and as I was just getting warm the thunderstorm struck so that was a bit of a shame," the 31-year said."He'll have a sore back from carrying me! We did well and I think when we got cut short we were one up so it was a good performance... from him."These things are very important for the group, the camaraderie, to come out here and enjoy ourselves, to relax a little bit, not get caught too much up in what's around the corner and create that really good team environment which has always been there. "The manager's been great with us, letting us do these kind of things."

Charlie Woods will enter an active summer with a significant change to his junior golf ranking.Woods, a rising senior at the Benjamin School and son of legendary golfer Tiger Woods, is ranked No. 149 in the latest American Junior Golf Association rankings.He dropped 136 places after the conclusion of his most recent event: a tied for 28th place finish at the Team TaylorMade Invitational.With the turn of the calendar, Woods' breakthrough win at the 2025 Team TaylorMade Invitational, his first at an AJGA event, dropped off the list of events contributing to his ranking. His top result is now a tied for ninth finish at the Boys Junior PGA Championship in July 2025. There should be plenty of opportunities for the Florida State commit to improve his ranking over the coming months. He recently qualified for the U.S. Junior Amateur from July 20-25 in Pennsylvania and, based on his previous Top 20 AJGA ranking, should automatically qualify for the Junior PGA Championship from July 28-31 in Texas.Eric J. Wallace is deputy sports editor for The Palm Beach Post. He can be reached at ejwallace@usatodayco.com. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Charlie Woods drops in latest junior golf rankings

Charlie Woods will enter an active summer with a significant change to his junior golf ranking.Woods, a rising senior at the Benjamin School and son of legendary golfer Tiger Woods, is ranked No. 149 in the latest American Junior Golf Association rankings.He dropped 136 places after the conclusion of his most recent event: a tied for 28th place finish at the Team TaylorMade Invitational.With the turn of the calendar, Woods' breakthrough win at the 2025 Team TaylorMade Invitational, his first at an AJGA event, dropped off the list of events contributing to his ranking. His top result is now a tied for ninth finish at the Boys Junior PGA Championship in July 2025. There should be plenty of opportunities for the Florida State commit to improve his ranking over the coming months. He recently qualified for the U.S. Junior Amateur from July 20-25 in Pennsylvania and, based on his previous Top 20 AJGA ranking, should automatically qualify for the Junior PGA Championship from July 28-31 in Texas.Eric J. Wallace is deputy sports editor for The Palm Beach Post. He can be reached at ejwallace@usatodayco.com. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Charlie Woods drops in latest junior golf rankings

In January 2025, former UFC women’s bantamweight champion Holly Holm requested to be released from the fight promotion to return to boxing. The UFC granted her request and she defeated Yolanda Vega in her return to the ring five moths later.Following the win over Vega “The Preacher’s Daughter” was lined up to face WBA lightweight champion Stephanie Han. The bout was stopped in the seventh round due to a cut from an accidental clash of heads.The two ran it back last Saturday in El Paso, Texas in the featured fight of the Most Valuable Promotion’s MVPW-03: Han vs. Holm II fight card at El Paso County Coliseum. Han retained her belt via majority decision but Holm insisted the judges got it wrong. Had her hand been raised, a fight between Holm and boxing legend Katie Taylor could have been set into motion. Despite her majority decision loss to Han in their rematch, Holm is still eyeing a fight with Taylor. "Here's what's frustrating about it is that you, a lot of these judges haven't fought before. And you leave a piece of yourself in there every time. And then it's just up to them to take it away from you if they want. That's what's frustrating because every fight, however you perform in this fight dictates what doors open for you. So, that's the frustrating part about it. You put your heart and soul into it, and then what's next? What are my options," Holm said during the event's post-fight press conference. "When you have a win, more options. When you have a loss, not as many. And that's what's frustrating." "I still want to call out the best because I feel I won the fight. So, I want to fight the Katie Taylor. I still want the big fight. Hopefully I can still make that happen."Holm pushed for a fight with Taylor on her social media accounts on Tuesday. "Is this the fight everyone wants to see? Katie Taylor is pure class and a true, dominant champion. I’d love to have this fight and be honored to share the ring with her," Holm wrote on Instagram with a poster featuring Taylor and herself. View this post on Instagram"I feel like there's just always been this like maybe I'll fight with Katie Taylor. Even when I was boxing before, she was like starting pro, and I was like almost going to start to go to MMA. And I would love to fight her, and with a win (over Han) that could have been something we could set up," said Holm. "And I feel I won the fight, so I want to try and put it together. As much as other people might not agree with that, but if I performed better, then I should be the fighter to be able to get that fight, if she would want it. But, I feel like Katie Taylor would like that too."

Former Milwaukee Bucks head coach Mike Budenholzer caught a stray recently from NBA big man Jusuf Nurkic.While talking about his time with the Phoenix Suns, current Utah Jazz center Nurkic opened up about the Suns’ failure under Budenholzer, whom he also called an “alcohol addict.”“The situation we were in, the environment, we were in. And then you find out, well, I don’t know if I should say this. But the guy was an alcohol addict,” he said during the X&O Chat Podcast (h/t BasketNews). “He was really having a problem with it.”Budenholzer coached the Suns for just a season (2024-25 campaign), and as an NBA champion head coach handling a star-studded lineup that featured the triumvirate of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, many expected the two-time NBA Coach of the Year Award winner to take that iteration of Phoenix to win an NBA championship. Nurkic shares wild comment on former Bucks head coach BudenholzerAs it turned out, the Suns did not even make the NBA Playoffs that season, finishing with a 36-46 record.Added Nurkic: “He was literally explaining to Kevin Durant how to score a basket. If he had been telling to me, or Gordon, or Royce O’Neal or Grayson Allen, whatever, but explaining to Kevin Durant how to score? That’s like explaining to a pilot how to fly a plane.”What Nurkic perhaps overlooked before making that statement was that Budenholzer had lost his brother in 2023, when the head coach was still with Milwaukee. Either way, it was something that the “Bosnian Beast” probably shouldn’t have shared.Jul 8, 2021; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Milwaukee forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) and center Bobby Portis (9) with head coach Budenholzer against the Phoenix Suns in game two of the 2021 NBA Finals at Phoenix Suns Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY SportsFor More Great Wisconsin Sports ContentFollow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19 and follow us @WiSportsHeroics for more great content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in Wisconsin sports, click here!

Jersey and Guernsey first played each other 126 years ago [BBC]Guernsey director of rugby Jordan Reynolds says playing Jersey in league games will match the intensity of the Siam Cup.Following Jersey's Regional One South Central title win in April they have been promoted to National Three East - the same league as Guernsey.It will be the first time since the 1994-95 season the two islands have played in the same division, when Jersey won what was then the Hampshire One title."To have this opportunity I think it's just going to create more of a buzz around the league, especially on those league games that we get against Jersey," Reynolds told BBC Radio Jersey."You can imagine the support that's going to come from Guernsey over to Jersey and vice versa."The size of the event could be something similar to Siam Cups. Obviously it won't take away from the Siam Cup, but I think it's great."It gives us both an opportunity to have that kind of rivalry throughout a league season - we don't get that in the normal league season, we've got to go and play teams in England and those derby weeks that they have, we don't get, so we get that opportunity now."Guernsey celebrated beating Jersey in last month's Siam Cup [BBC]Siam Cup success for Guernsey men and Jersey womenJersey celebrate despite missing out on perfect seasonJersey seal clean sweep over Guernsey in Siam CupJersey's promotion represents a rapid rise for the island side that was initially set up as a separate amateur team for local players to play in the English leagues because of the success of professional side Jersey Reds.But when the then Championship champions went bust in 2022 Jersey RFC became the main focus of rugby in the island.They have gone on to win three promotions in four years and join Guernsey in the fourth tier of English club rugby. "We love a good trip to Jersey and I think vice versa," added Reynolds, whose side have played in the fourth tier for all but one season since 2018. "Guernsey's got so much to offer and if it's an opportunity to jump over and watch your club play against one of the biggest rivals that they've got, why not stay the weekend and enjoy themselves and you know vice versa hopefully we can do the same."Guernsey beat Jersey 35-27 in their annual Siam Cup grudge match at Footes Lane last month.Reynolds says the addition of two more fixtures between the sides will not detract from the game which as been played since 1920."The Siam's too big to fail," he said."There were games back there during Covid where it finished and the two clubs got together and we ended up playing three Siam Cups in one season and the crowds were still very big."You've got to remember these will be league games, completely separated from the Siam Cup, and although you would hope the ferocity of both sides fighting out a league game would be there, I don't think it's going to match the intensity of what a Siam Cup does."So that's always going to be a significant difference, and the difference with the Siam Cup as well is silverware."You're playing for one of the oldest trophies in world rugby, so I don't think at any stage will that have a big effect on what the league season is doing."Listen to the latest Rugby Union Weekly podcast

ST. PETERSBURG, FL – The Detroit Tigers beat the Tampa Bay Rays, 8-0, on Tuesday, June 2, in the second of three games in the series at Tropicana Field.The two-game winning streak features 18 runs, including a leadoff home run from Gleyber Torres in his return from the injured list Tuesday against left-hander Steven Matz.The Tigers are 24-38 – they entered Wednesday fourth in the American League Central, 11 games back of division-leading Cleveland and 6½ games out of a wild-card spot.TUESDAY'S ACTION: Early runs launch Tigers past Rays for second win in a rowWhy Jackson Jobe arrived at Tropicana FieldIf the Tigers return to AL contender status this season, the Aug. 3 trade deadline will be a chance to add talent from outside in search of a deep playoff run.One potential boost is already in the organization.Right-hander Jackson Jobe – recovering from Tommy John surgery to repair the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow – joined the Tigers at Tropicana Field before Tuesday's game to throw a bullpen session in front of coaches and the medical staff."We wanted to see Jackson – and also give Jackson a little boost of energy," manager A.J. Hinch said.Jobe underwent the surgery June 16, 2025 – nearly 12 months ago.The Tigers expect Jobe will be available in August.The 23-year-old remains on track for the expected recovery timeline now that he has completed double-digit bullpen sessions in his throwing program.Jobe is gearing up to face hitters in live batting practice sessions on the TigerTown backfields. At Tropicana Field, pitching coach Chris Fetter and assistant pitching coaches Robin Lund and Juan Nieves watched Jobe's bullpen closely."He's starting to build plans to see hitters in a few weeks," Hinch said. "That will lead to more and more baseball activity."The Tigers aren't far away from TigerTown, as the Lakeland, Florida, complex is just a bit under 60 miles from the Trop."It can get redundant in Lakeland on rehab all year," Hinch said.Jackson Jobe, 100mph Fastball...and 3,187 RPM Sweeper (19 inches of horizontal break). pic.twitter.com/OpsgPCq6NA— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) October 11, 2024Jobe – whom the Tigers selected with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2021 draft – hasn't pitched in a game since May 28, 2025, the final of 10 starts in which he compiled a 4.22 ERA with 27 walks and 39 strikeouts across 49 innings. He made his MLB debut in September 2024."I think Jackson coming and throwing a bullpen is a great boost for us as a staff, knowing he's somewhere down the road of recovery," Hinch said, "and for him, knowing that he's still a part of this despite being away from our team for the entire season."Timing on fastballs defines offenseIn May, the Tigers were overmatched at the plate.Fastballs beat them.Breaking balls and offspeed pitches fooled them.Runs were at a premium.Through 28 games in May, the Tigers averaged fewer than three runs per game en route to a 6-22 record. But in the first two games of June? They've scored 18 runs, for a 2-0 record.What is the difference?It's timing."We're on time," Hinch said. "We're on time to hit pitches, and we're getting good pitches to hit. This is a good offensive team when we get locked in on a game plan and go out and execute – and then when you piece at-bats together."WELCOME BACK GT 💣 pic.twitter.com/1IbMGrWaUd— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) June 2, 2026The Tigers are relying on a team-wide approach.Hit the fastball.Two games don't wipe away what happened in the past, but after scoring 18 runs in two days, the Tigers finally have a reminder of what they're capable of accomplishing – as long as they're on time for fastballs."I feel like we were getting beat on fastballs," first baseman Spencer Torkelson said. "When you're late on fastballs, you're not only going to be late on fastballs, but you're going to be late on the offspeed pitches and chase more. I think we're getting our swing off, and we're having a really solid team approach of attacking the fastball."Justin Verlander makes rehab startRight-hander Justin Verlander completed his first (and possibly only) rehab start Tuesday with Triple-A Toledo, throwing five scoreless innings in a 64-pitch performance.The 43-year-old faced the Iowa Cubs, the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, in Des Moines – his first appearance for the Mud Hens since 2015.He is recovering from left hip inflammation.Verlander hasn't pitched for the Tigers since March 30 against the Arizona Diamondbacks in Phoenix. But as long as he doesn't experience symptoms of injury in the coming days, he should return to the Tigers for his next start.Justin Verlander, pitching for the Toledo Mud Hens for the first time in 11 years, ends the first inning of his rehab start with a high fastball for a strikeout. pic.twitter.com/Uuue30yTGR— Jason Beck (@beckjason) June 2, 2026In Tuesday's game, Verlander averaged 93.5 mph with his fastball – topping out at 95.1 mph.Verlander gave up four hits, but he didn't allow any walks while striking out three batters in his five scoreless innings. He also filled up the strike zone, with 48 of his 64 pitches for strikes.Contact Evan Petzold at epetzold@freepress.com or follow him @EvanPetzold.This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit Tigers takeaways: Jackson Jobe arrives at Tropicana Field

ST. PETERSBURG, FL – The Detroit Tigers beat the Tampa Bay Rays, 8-0, on Tuesday, June 2, in the second of three games in the series at Tropicana Field.The two-game winning streak features 18 runs, including a leadoff home run from Gleyber Torres in his return from the injured list Tuesday against left-hander Steven Matz.The Tigers are 24-38 – they entered Wednesday fourth in the American League Central, 11 games back of division-leading Cleveland and 6½ games out of a wild-card spot.TUESDAY'S ACTION: Early runs launch Tigers past Rays for second win in a rowWhy Jackson Jobe arrived at Tropicana FieldIf the Tigers return to AL contender status this season, the Aug. 3 trade deadline will be a chance to add talent from outside in search of a deep playoff run.One potential boost is already in the organization.Right-hander Jackson Jobe – recovering from Tommy John surgery to repair the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow – joined the Tigers at Tropicana Field before Tuesday's game to throw a bullpen session in front of coaches and the medical staff."We wanted to see Jackson – and also give Jackson a little boost of energy," manager A.J. Hinch said.Jobe underwent the surgery June 16, 2025 – nearly 12 months ago.The Tigers expect Jobe will be available in August.The 23-year-old remains on track for the expected recovery timeline now that he has completed double-digit bullpen sessions in his throwing program.Jobe is gearing up to face hitters in live batting practice sessions on the TigerTown backfields. At Tropicana Field, pitching coach Chris Fetter and assistant pitching coaches Robin Lund and Juan Nieves watched Jobe's bullpen closely."He's starting to build plans to see hitters in a few weeks," Hinch said. "That will lead to more and more baseball activity."The Tigers aren't far away from TigerTown, as the Lakeland, Florida, complex is just a bit under 60 miles from the Trop."It can get redundant in Lakeland on rehab all year," Hinch said.Jackson Jobe, 100mph Fastball...and 3,187 RPM Sweeper (19 inches of horizontal break). pic.twitter.com/OpsgPCq6NA— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) October 11, 2024Jobe – whom the Tigers selected with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2021 draft – hasn't pitched in a game since May 28, 2025, the final of 10 starts in which he compiled a 4.22 ERA with 27 walks and 39 strikeouts across 49 innings. He made his MLB debut in September 2024."I think Jackson coming and throwing a bullpen is a great boost for us as a staff, knowing he's somewhere down the road of recovery," Hinch said, "and for him, knowing that he's still a part of this despite being away from our team for the entire season."Timing on fastballs defines offenseIn May, the Tigers were overmatched at the plate.Fastballs beat them.Breaking balls and offspeed pitches fooled them.Runs were at a premium.Through 28 games in May, the Tigers averaged fewer than three runs per game en route to a 6-22 record. But in the first two games of June? They've scored 18 runs, for a 2-0 record.What is the difference?It's timing."We're on time," Hinch said. "We're on time to hit pitches, and we're getting good pitches to hit. This is a good offensive team when we get locked in on a game plan and go out and execute – and then when you piece at-bats together."WELCOME BACK GT 💣 pic.twitter.com/1IbMGrWaUd— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) June 2, 2026The Tigers are relying on a team-wide approach.Hit the fastball.Two games don't wipe away what happened in the past, but after scoring 18 runs in two days, the Tigers finally have a reminder of what they're capable of accomplishing – as long as they're on time for fastballs."I feel like we were getting beat on fastballs," first baseman Spencer Torkelson said. "When you're late on fastballs, you're not only going to be late on fastballs, but you're going to be late on the offspeed pitches and chase more. I think we're getting our swing off, and we're having a really solid team approach of attacking the fastball."Justin Verlander makes rehab startRight-hander Justin Verlander completed his first (and possibly only) rehab start Tuesday with Triple-A Toledo, throwing five scoreless innings in a 64-pitch performance.The 43-year-old faced the Iowa Cubs, the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, in Des Moines – his first appearance for the Mud Hens since 2015.He is recovering from left hip inflammation.Verlander hasn't pitched for the Tigers since March 30 against the Arizona Diamondbacks in Phoenix. But as long as he doesn't experience symptoms of injury in the coming days, he should return to the Tigers for his next start.Justin Verlander, pitching for the Toledo Mud Hens for the first time in 11 years, ends the first inning of his rehab start with a high fastball for a strikeout. pic.twitter.com/Uuue30yTGR— Jason Beck (@beckjason) June 2, 2026In Tuesday's game, Verlander averaged 93.5 mph with his fastball – topping out at 95.1 mph.Verlander gave up four hits, but he didn't allow any walks while striking out three batters in his five scoreless innings. He also filled up the strike zone, with 48 of his 64 pitches for strikes.Contact Evan Petzold at epetzold@freepress.com or follow him @EvanPetzold.This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit Tigers takeaways: Jackson Jobe arrives at Tropicana Field

Nature, Published online: 03 June 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-01727-xLabs are teaming up to run a host of huge projects that aim to bring rigour to cognitive science.

Illustration by Shoshana Gordon/ProPublica. Source images via IRS and Flickr. On any given night, thousands of people sleep on the streets in Portland, Oregon. They seek shelter in tents, bushes and overpasses in a city that has struggled with one of the worst housing crises in the country. Portland, like many cities, has raced to increase its supply of affordable housing by turning to a federal program that’s existed since the 1980s: the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit. It provides up to $15 billion worth of tax credits a year nationally to help developers build apartments. Portland supplemented the federal construction money with local dollars, creating incentives that were hard to turn down. But to meet the affordability requirements, all the developers needed to do in most cases was put rents within reach of someone earning 60% of median income, an earnings threshold that equates to about $75,000 annually for a family of four. It turns out that this amount of rent is now close to what the typical Portland landlord charges without any subsidy. The result of the federal tax credit has been a glut of apartments costing renters on the order of about $1,400 a month for a one-bedroom. That’s a manageable outlay for a family making $75,000 but nearly half the monthly income of someone who earns $35,000 at the local minimum wage. Nearly 2,000 of Portland’s subsidized units sat vacant and unused at last count, as The Oregonian and Willamette Week have reported. The same situation has repeated from Seattle to the San Francisco Bay Area to Denver. Economists and other academic researchers have been warning for decades that this was precisely the sort of problem that the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit was likely to create. Studies have concluded that the program, which currently supports nine out of every 10 subsidized units built in America, is an expensive and ineffective way to house people who can’t afford it. Researchers have said it doesn’t subsidize housing deeply enough to reach truly low-income renters, so it produces housing in markets and at income levels that already have a surplus instead of filling a shortage. Independent researchers have found little evidence it’s expanded the overall housing supply beyond what the market would have produced without it. Its complexity has birthed an industry of affordable-housing-focused developers, investors, lawyers and accounting specialists who profit off the tax credit. Between 1991 and 2024, a dozen studies concluded that many more people could benefit if the money were spent on rental vouchers, which let consumers, rather than the government, decide which landlords get tax subsidies. Estimates went as high as twice the impact for the dollar. “The evidence is telling us this program is lacking its reason to exist,” said Kirk McClure, an emeritus professor of urban planning at the University of Kansas and a leading critic of the tax credit. “We should reform the program to make it work better.” McClure and others have brought their concerns to Congress. He recommended diverting the money into rental vouchers for tenants, or else changing the tax credit’s rules to reward only developers who build units in genuinely short supply: those affordable to people at the very bottom of the income ladder. The ideas never went anywhere. Instead, money for the tax credit has grown at a much faster rate than rental assistance vouchers since 2000, data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Treasury shows. Rock-solid support from industries that benefit from the tax credit and both parties in Congress has made it the linchpin of U.S. housing policy. “The program leverages housing market forces, entrepreneurial innovation and private accountability to increase housing supply,” former HUD Secretary Ben Carson told the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform in 2025. Among the tax credit’s other prominent backers are two Northwest Democrats on the Senate Committee on Finance, Ron Wyden of Oregon and Maria Cantwell of Washington. Cantwell has introduced bills to increase funding for the existing tax credit, and Wyden has proposed expanding the target of the credits to benefit not just low-income families, but also middle-income households — the opposite of what McClure says needs to happen. Both Wyden and Cantwell say Congress should hold more hearings to ensure the program is run efficiently, but they also defended it in written statements to Oregon Public Broadcasting and ProPublica. “There isn’t any silver bullet to the housing crisis in Oregon and around the country,” Wyden’s statement said, “but the low-income housing tax credit has been the most successful federal housing construction program on the books for decades and is the only housing program Republicans haven’t tried to gut.” Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden has proposed expanding the target of the credits to benefit not just low-income families, but also middle-income households — the opposite of experts’ advice. Francis Chung/Politico via AP Images Indeed, President Donald Trump has sought to cut housing programs such as rent assistance. But as part of his spending package last year, Congress approved the biggest expansion of the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit in decades. “That’s a mistake,” McClure said. It won’t alleviate homelessness or the housing shortage for people at the lowest incomes, he said. It will just create more buildings that compete with the market and with one another for the same pool of renters. McClure recounted seeing a brand-new affordable housing complex near his home in Kansas not long ago with a sign enticing tenants of another government-backed complex down the street, promoting newer units at the same price. “So the taxpayers of the United States subsidized the creation of this new property to help bankrupt another federally subsidized property,” he said. “That is stupidity 101. We have got to be better stewards of the American taxpayer’s dollar.” Subsidized Vacancies Oregon’s affordable housing production has skyrocketed in recent years. So have rents and homelessness. Over the past decade, Oregon lawmakers doubled funding for the state’s affordable housing tax credit and started offering low-interest and deferred loans for construction. Voters in the Portland area, meanwhile, passed housing bonds totaling more than $900 million. Developers can use that money to secure federal housing tax credits. The state went from building about 1,800 affordable units a year pre-pandemic to nearly 5,000 last year. Industries that benefit from the tax credit say it’s the engine that makes that kind of building boom possible. The Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition, representing lenders, developers and others in the industry, has called the program “the most effective tool we have to meet the affordable housing needs in rural, suburban, and urban areas.” Jennifer Schwartz, director of tax and housing advocacy for the National Council of State Housing Agencies, which advocates for the tax credit and other housing programs administered by states, said the housing market by itself won’t produce a big enough supply of housing within reach for low-income renters. That goes for even those who receive federal rent vouchers, she said. “It costs too much to build housing to turn around and rent it to households who are low-income households,” Schwartz said, “unless you have some sort of incentive like the housing credit.” But in Portland, all that new construction hasn’t made a dent in the city’s affordability crisis. A report from the Portland Housing Bureau in 2025 found that rent and home sale prices were growing faster than incomes, even as the city’s vacancy rate was also rising. The vacancy rate was roughly 7.6% as of May, according to Aaron Kirk Douglas, director of market intelligence at the Portland-based brokerage HFO Investment Real Estate. Vacancies are even higher for ostensibly affordable units: 11%, leaving nearly 2,000 units unused. Housing industry experts consider 5% vacancy to be a baseline for ordinary turnover. The time it takes to verify that a tenant’s income meets the tax credit’s requirements and prep units for move-in played a role in the struggle to fill vacant units built with the federal subsidy. But housing advocates say the biggest barrier is price. The gap between market-rate rents and affordable housing rents has shrunk, and not just in Portland. By one industry estimate, in more than a dozen U.S. cities at least 40% of affordable housing was competing with market-rate buildings rates in 2025. In the Portland suburb of Gresham, federal rules cap a two-bedroom apartment built with the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit at $1,675 a month. Zillow puts the equivalent market-rate apartment at $1,525. Operators of a new $53.8 million development in northeast Portland, built with the tax credit and the local housing bond, had trouble filling studio and one-bedroom apartments whose affordable rents were near market rate. They began offering a month of free rent for new tenants, according to a March report from the committee that oversees the region’s housing bond. Affordable housing providers, which in Portland are predominantly nonprofit organizations, are also increasing their marketing budgets to attract renters away from market-rate buildings. “The idea that we’re competing with the market would have been unfathomable a few years ago,” said Margaret Salazar, CEO of Reach Community Development Corporation, one of Portland’s largest affordable housing providers. Salazar, who led Oregon’s state housing agency during the COVID-19 pandemic and later worked as a regional director for HUD, is a longtime proponent of the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit. But she said the people who can afford to rent apartments the tax credit has produced would rather move into a market-rate apartment for similar money and with fewer rules and restrictions. “It’s becoming a slimmer and slimmer slice of residents” that Reach can serve, she said. “Suddenly we’re competing for this little slice of people.” Meanwhile, a substantial group of Portland-area residents remain priced out. HUD data shows more than 90,000 households in Multnomah County earn less than the 60% of median income that a family would typically need to afford a federally subsidized unit. (The precise number of families who can’t afford “affordable” units is unclear because it depends on variations in household size, actual rent levels and other subsidies that might reduce rents further.) Salazar said that right now Reach can rent to people at lower income levels only if it can find additional subsidies such as housing vouchers — and funding for vouchers is so limited that only 1 in 4 people who qualify are able to get them. Despite the convergence of rent levels in market-rate and subsidized housing, supporters of the tax credit say it remains valuable because the units it subsidizes are constrained from raising rents faster than incomes — and there’s no guarantee market-rate rents will remain at this level in the future. But Steve Rudman, who ran the local housing authority in the Portland area for more than a decade, said the fact that the tax credit is now delivering market-rate housing rather than housing for the poorest households raises an existential question for the federal program. “What is this thing really doing?” Rudman said. “What is the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit?” A Stopgap Takes Off Criticism of the federal construction credit has been a near constant since it began. In the Reagan era, housing experts began to worry rents would become unaffordable amid deep cuts to housing programs and the drafting of the Tax Reform Act, which eliminated several tax shelters for real estate. McClure, an economist for the city of Boston at the time, worked with others to design a tax credit that would reward affordable housing production. “It was meant to be a three-year stopgap until we came up with something better,” he said. The idea was to incorporate low-income housing into market-rate housing construction that was already taking place. Developers could receive a tax credit if they capped rents for a certain portion of the apartments in their building, and they could continue to rent the rest at any amount they chose. McClure crafted letters for Boston’s mayor to send Congress in support of the idea. His analysis helped decide the subsidy amount. Developers could offset 70% of the cost of new builds or 30% of the cost of a rehab. Congress signed off in 1986. Almost immediately, the program diverged from the outcomes McClure had envisioned. Kirk McClure, one of the drafters of the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit. For decades, he’s been calling for reforms to the policy. Arin Yoon for ProPublica He and other drafters of the tax credit had thought developers would use it to offer deep discounts on a small number of units, allowing them to charge market rate on the rest. But developers found it more profitable to subsidize 100% of their units at the smallest allowable discount, a rent affordable to households at 60% of median income. In 1992, as lawmakers considered making the 6-year-old Low-Income Housing Tax Credit permanent, an analysis by the Congressional Budget Office declared the program “unlikely to substantially increase the supply of affordable housing” and “more suited to the needs of investors than poor renters.” For one, the tax credits cost a lot to administer, congressional economists said. They also pointed to evidence that subsidized housing production dampened market-rate construction. Congress was preparing to give developers $3 billion through the tax credit as of 1992. Putting that money into housing vouchers instead, the CBO concluded, would help 550,000 households, more than twice as many as would benefit from the construction tax credit. The numbers echoed findings from an earlier HUD evaluation of tax credits vs. vouchers. Congress made the tax credit permanent a year later. As time wore on, McClure’s emerging doubts about a program he originally expected to be temporary only deepened. When the Fannie Mae Foundation hired him in 1997 to analyze how the tax credit was doing, he concluded it was a “very inefficient subsidy delivery mechanism” that didn’t produce as much housing as it should have. Other studies came to similar conclusions as McClure, HUD and the Congressional Budget Office. At least five found the tax credit does little to increase the overall housing supply. The Government Accountability Office noted problems with the program in 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018, finding it lacked basic oversight to show the federal funds worked as intended. A 2017 investigation by NPR and Frontline documented numerous examples of waste and fraud, including one developer pocketing tax credits without building the required housing. “Given the available evidence on program performance, we should certainly not expand the tax credit program,” Edgar Olsen, professor emeritus of economics at the University of Virginia, wrote in a 2017 article for the American Enterprise Institute. “The existing evidence argues for terminating it.” There are some critics within Congress. Rep. Glenn Grothman, a Republican from Wisconsin, introduced a bill to kill the program last year, calling it a “cash grab for developers and banks.” But the bill went nowhere. Olsen, like McClure, remains adamant today about what he considers the tax program’s uselessness. In a recent interview, he told OPB and ProPublica that he’s urged policymakers, in academic articles and in testimony, to re-examine whether the program has any value at all. “How often do they talk to people like me or like Kirk McClure? The answer is almost never,” Olsen said. “What they hear from are people who represent the financial interest of the industry, and so they want more money to be spent on this.” The post A Low-Income Housing Program Is Pouring Billions Into Housing Many People Can’t Afford appeared first on ProPublica.

Arsenal’s long-term target now wants summer move to the Premier LeagueArsenal are one of the clubs that have been monitoring Karim Adeyemi, and the Gunners are keen to bring him to the Emirates this summer.Adeyemi has been in fine form at Borussia Dortmund, consistently delivering impressive performances whenever he plays. The German international has attracted interest from several clubs over the years, although most of those approaches have come from teams outside the Premier League.The attacker has long been eager to test himself in England, which is one of the reasons he has turned down previous opportunities to leave Dortmund. However, he now appears ready to take the next step in his career, with a potential move to the Premier League increasingly viewed as realistic.Dortmund stance and Arsenal interestBorussia Dortmund are also reportedly prepared to sanction his departure for the right price, and The Athletic claims that Adeyemi is keen on a move to the Premier League.The forward has been in excellent form for some time, with his pace, dribbling ability and attacking versatility making him one of the most exciting players to watch in European football.Arsenal view him as a player who could add directness and depth to their attacking options, particularly given the demands of competing across multiple competitions.Transfer race expected to intensifyThis latest development could encourage Arsenal to renew their interest and step up their pursuit of the Dortmund star.However, they are unlikely to be alone in the race, with several clubs expected to compete for his signature during the transfer window. Dortmund’s willingness to sell, combined with Adeyemi’s openness to a move, could set the stage for a competitive battle for one of Europe’s most dynamic attacking talents as the summer window progresses._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…More Stories / Latest NewsArsenal’s long-term target now wants summer move to the Premier League 3 June 2026, 10:30Arsenal could add a key player in their offer for Rogers 3 June 2026, 9:00Has Arsenal’s Success Made Online Football Banter Toxic? 2 June 2026, 23:00

Right now, no athletic program on Texas A&M’s campus is operating at a higher level than women’s tennis. Under head coach Mark Weaver, the Aggies have built a machine. One that wins, develops elite talent, and now recruits at a national‑best level.Weaver’s story is part of what makes the rise so remarkable. He joined the program in 1999 as a volunteer assistant, worked his way through the staff ranks, and took over as head coach in 2015. Since then, the trajectory has been nothing but upward. The Aggies have reached the Sweet Sixteen every season since 2019, and over the last three years alone, they’ve captured two national championships and finished as national runner‑up in the third.Despite not having a facility that matches their on‑court dominance, a conversation for another day, the program has become one of the premier destinations in college tennis.A&M’s success isn’t just team‑based; it’s individual excellence, too. The Aggies have produced the No. 1 collegiate player in the country in multiple seasons, first with Mary Stoiana and now with Lucciana Perez, reinforcing the program’s reputation for developing top‑tier talent. That development pipeline, paired with A&M’s growing national profile, has also made the Aggies a legitimate landing spot for some of the best junior players in the world.With several key departures after last season, A&M needed a strong recruiting class to maintain its championship standard. They delivered, landing the No. 1 signing class in the nation, according to Tennis Recruiting Network.The dynasty isn’t slowing down. If anything, it’s reloading.ONLY GETTING BETTER 👍🔗 https://t.co/BhsKkoNtqLpic.twitter.com/4yxg8J0olN— Texas A&M Women's Tennis (@AggieWTEN) June 2, 2026Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Jarrett Johnson on X: @whosnextsports1.This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M Women’s tennis lands No. 1 recruiting class for 2026

The New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs are set to face off in the 2026 NBA Finals this week, with Game 1 tipping off at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio.This championship series marks a highly anticipated matchup between the two franchises, serving as a rematch of the 1999 NBA Finals between the Knicks and Spurs, where the Spurs came out victorious, according to USA TODAY. More than two decades later, both teams have a chance to add to their longstanding history.The Knicks are making their first Finals appearance since 1999 and seeking their first NBA championship since 1973 with two title wins so far.Meanwhile, the Spurs are back in the Finals for the first time since 2014, where they won their fifth NBA title.How far away is San Antonio from Lubbock?For fans traveling to watch the games, San Antonio is approximately 385 miles from Lubbock, a six-hour drive between the two Texas cities.2026 NBA Finals scheduleThe NBA Finals will be broadcast exclusively on ABC with all games starting at 7:30 p.m. CT. All games can also be streamed on Fubo. *- if necessaryGame 1: Wednesday, June 3 | New York Knicks at San Antonio Spurs | 7:30 p.m. CT | ABCGame 2: Friday, June 5 | New York Knicks at San Antonio Spurs | 7:30 p.m. CT | ABCGame 3: Monday, June 8 | San Antonio Spurs at New York Knicks | 7:30 p.m. CT | ABCGame 4: Wednesday, June 10 | San Antonio Spurs at New York Knicks | 7:30 p.m. CT | ABC*Game 5: Saturday, June 13 | New York Knicks at San Antonio Spurs | 7:30 p.m. CT | ABC*Game 6: Tuesday, June 16 | San Antonio Spurs at New York Knicks | 7:30 p.m. CT | ABC*Game 7: Friday, June 19 | New York Knicks at San Antonio Spurs | 7:30 p.m. CT | ABCThis article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: How far is San Antonio from Lubbock for Spurs, Knicks in NBA Finals?