Tom Petrini: Adam Silver on Wemby growing the game: "He's just a huge personality, putting aside his size. I enjoyed getting to know him, and I'd say, you know, having been with the league for a long time now, players come along every once in a while that, in addition to having this incredible skill, love the promotional side of it. Want to play that role for the league. We saw the role he played at All-Star. I think in leading even a lot of the other young players say let's take this seriously, this really matters. And in terms of my expectation for him, again I try not to have an expectation like that... I don't want to put any more pressure on Victor. I will say, obviously, he's the number one pick in the draft. He came in highly touted, he was somebody who, even before he came into the NBA was blowing up the internet in terms of his highlights... I think he's ahead of any timeline that people had him on."x.comThis article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Adam Silver on Victor Wembanyama: 'He's ahead of any timeline that people had him on'

Tom Petrini: Adam Silver: "The country and the world have changed in dramatic ways because of digital media, and it'd be hard for somebody to argue that Victor Wembanyama isn't getting the kind of global attention he deserves because he's playing in small market San Antonio."x.comThis article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "The country and the world have changed in dramatic …

Four Republicans from different ideological factions crossed party lines to vote with Democrats in favor of reining in the president’s power to wage war unilaterally.

The president’s unilateral and retributive style of governing is starting to hit a wall in both chambers of Congress.

Steelers edge rusher T.J. Watt has played mostly on the left side in his career. In fact, he took only 10 snaps on the right side last season, leaving that side to Alex Highsmith.Watt, though, indicated that he will move around in Patrick Graham's defense.”I think in the past, it was a little bit more about me being stubborn,” Watt said, via video from the Post-Gazette Sports. “I think this new system allows [more of that, because] a lot of it is built in, so I really can’t say no. I have to move with it. A lot of us are interchangeable parts. You’re not just learning your position, you kind of have to learn the whole defensive front structure because we all are basically interchangeable. We can do different things, so I think you’re going to see a lot more movement of not just me, but the whole front.” Watt led the NFL in sacks with 19 in 2023. He has only 18.5 over the past two seasons, including seven in 2025 when he missed three games.Graham could be just what Watt needs at this point in his career, and the four-time All-Pro is working overtime to learn his coach's scheme."It's been a lot, not going to lie to you," Watt said. "It's been a lot of studying, lot of learning, lot on the iPad. Also, trying to see the new faces, not only players but coaches, but it's been a lot of really good work. As you guys can see, practices are a little bit different around here, tougher as you get older to get the work in, but it's all been phenomenal."

Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty ImagesNew York Knicks head coach Mike Brown knows Gregg Popovich too well to ask the San Antonio Spurs legend for NBA Finals advice.Brown’s answer carried humor, history, and a clear understanding of the matchup in front of him. The relationship between the two coaches is real, but the Finals leave no room for friendly favors.Brown can respect Popovich, lean on what he learned from him, and still know exactly where the line sits this week. Any useful advice from San Antonio would come with too much competitive baggage attached.Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty ImagesMike Brown knows Gregg Popovich’s advice could hurt New York KnicksSpeaking to SNY Knicks, Brown explained why asking Popovich for Finals guidance before facing the Spurs would make little sense, given how competitive his old mentor remains.“He’s savvy, he’s very competitive, and If I reached out to him and asked him for some advice, he’d give me some BS that worked against us. So, no. I can’t reach out to him,” Brown said.He added, “I said BS because I went to dinner with my mom last night and she reprimanded me for the first 30 minutes because I said a__.”The joke worked because it came from a place of familiarity rather than distance. Brown was not pretending the connection does not exist, but he also made it clear that Popovich’s loyalty would never drift away from the Spurs with a championship on the line.Brown’s answer also showed why the Knicks have reached this stage under him. He can acknowledge the personal side of the series without letting sentiment soften the competitive edge New York will need.Gregg Popovich’s bond cannot outrank Mike Brown’s New York Knicks mission against San Antonio SpursBrown’s Spurs connection gives this Finals matchup more depth than a normal coaching storyline. He worked under Popovich in San Antonio from 2000 to 2003, helping the franchise win the 2003 NBA championship before building his own long coaching career.Still, mentorship has limits when both sides want the same trophy. Popovich may care about Brown, but his identity is tied too deeply to the Spurs for him to put any former assistant above the franchise he shaped.Brown seemed to understand that without needing to make the answer heavy. His humor made the point cleanly: Popovich might give him something, but the Knicks would be foolish to assume it would help them.The Finals have turned a long friendship into a sharper competitive test. Brown can honor where he came from, but his job now is to beat the team that helped build him.Read more:Ben Stiller makes important promise to Mike Brown and his family after Knicks reach NBA FinalsThe ‘money’ reason why Mike Brown wants to play San Antonio Spurs in NBA FinalsTwo NBA legends’ leadership reminds Mike Brown of Knicks star Jalen Brunson

A new basketball league is coming to Europe. NBA commissioner Adam Silver provided a little more clarity on Wednesday.Speaking with reporters ahead of the 2026 NBA Finals, Silver confirmed the NBA is on track for its European subsidiary to launch next year and will soon stop accepting bids from interested teams:“We are very much on schedule. It is our hope and anticipation that that league will launch in the 2027-28 season in Europe. We are on track. Final bids from franchises are due at the end of the month in June. As has been reported, we’ve seen record interest and we’re very excited about the ongoing opportunity and working closely with FIBA, our federation.”Silver later said the league will “presumably” be in position to award franchises in the fall. When asked how the new league would be structured, he laid out a vision that features 16 teams, with some existing teams and some newly created, some permanent and some using a promotion/relegation system. Play 2026 Soccer Pick 'Em with FOX One and make your picks for the world's biggest soccer tournamentThe involvement of EuroLeague, the current top competition in Europe, remains to be seen:“What we’re planning to launch with, essentially, is a 16-team league. 12 permanent franchises and then the ability for, frankly, any club in Europe to play in those remaining slots. A modified open league or a modified closed league, depending on how you want to look at it. That’s the structure that we’re talking to these potential franchises about. Some are existing franchises that play in Europe and then there’s groups who are coming together and want to launch teams in cities that don’t have top-level basketball right now. In terms of EuroLeague, negotiations are ongoing with them. It’s our hope that we can find a way to integrate these operations with. the EuroLeague, but we will move forward either way.It has previously been reported that the NBA is targeting the cities of Rome and Milan in Italy, London and Manchester in England, Paris and Lyon in France, Madrid and Barcelona in Spain, Munich and Berlin in Germany as well as Athens in Greece and Istanbul in Turkey.The NBA is coming to Europe. There are still plenty of unanswered questions.RICCARDO MILANI via Getty ImagesOne major question remaining is how much the NBA’s own players can be involved. Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Dončić bought a stake in Italy’s Vanoli Cremona last month, with the intention to relocate the team to Rome and compete to represent the capital city in NBA Europe.NBA players are forbidden from owning any stake in one of the league’s teams, but it’s a grayer area with NBA Europe teams, which will likely have a different body of players. Silver couldn’t provide an answer on how that will work:“In terms of whether it’s Luka Doncic or other players owning teams, that has not been resolved yet. That’s an issue we have to work through with our players association. I’ll just add I think part of the determination will be what the basketball relationship will be betwen these teams in — call it NBA Europe — and the NBA. “That obviously could complicate things if current NBA players were owners, so those are some of the factors that we’ll be looking at.”The whole enterprise doesn’t sound too different from the infamous European Super League that attempted to break away from the existing soccer structure in 2021. That proposed league featured 15 permanent teams, composed of the largest clubs in Europe, and a rotating cast of five teams fortunate enough to be promoted from the rest of the pack.In this case, the NBA will apparently either join forces with EuroLeague or create a competition that threatens to supplant it, likely with EuroLeague’s top teams or whichever bidder is willing to pony up for a slot.

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA - OCTOBER 18: Brendan Allen prepares to face Reinier de Ridder of The Netherlands in a middleweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at Rogers Arena on October 18, 2025 in Vancouver, British Columbia. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC) No love.Top Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Middleweight contender Brendan Allen makes his first appearance of the year when he takes on unranked knockout artist Edmen Shahbazyan in the co-main event of UFC Vegas 118 this weekend (Sat., June 6, 2026) inside the Meta Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada.Allen being matched up with Shahbazyan came completely out of left field.After all, “All In” is coming off a huge win over Reinier de Ridder, making the former two-division ONE champion quit on the stool, which pushed Allen to No. 5 in the Middleweight rankings. Shahbazyan, meanwhile, spent last year rebuilding himself and is currently unranked.So, the optics of the matchmaking weren’t great.However, it turns out Allen accepted the fight immediately when UFC approached him with it, mainly because he wanted to get paid and because Dricus du Plessisnever accepted his callout.But because he accepted a dangerous fight against an unranked opponent, does Allen feel appreciated by UFC and the fans?Not really.“No, I really haven’t felt anything, to be honest,” Allen told reporters during UFC Vegas 118 media day. “I’ve defended my spot many, many times, probably more than anyone in my division — outside the top 15 or in it. I win one, and then I have to defend two or three times, then go back. If I lose, then it is like four times. There is always a longer road for me, and I don’t know why. Maybe I’m not that much of a likable guy, I guess. It is what it is.”“This is my 19th UFC fight, I’m 14-4 in the promotion, and I’ve fought the best guys I can fight,” Allen added. “I’ve only asked for the best guys that I could get. I hope they appreciate what I do, and I know that they know I’ve stepped up many times — when I shouldn’t have — but I still step up. And when I sign the contract, I’m going to fight.”While a win over Shahbazyan doesn’t do a ton for Allen in terms of rankings, it does keep him active and paid — and it keeps him in the title conversation if he gets through another dangerous opponent.“All In” is hoping that, with another win, UFC finally rewards him with the kind of fight he has been asking for: a No. 1 contender bout.To checkout the latest and greatest UFC Vegas 118: “Muhammad vs. Bonfim” news and notes be sure to hit up our comprehensive event archive right here.

Victor Wembanyama’s arrival for Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Wednesday garnered a lot of attention online. Fans talked about his outfit, as well as his demeanor as he made his way to the San Antonio Spurs’ locker room.The superstar center went with a tailored, sleek, and high-fashion business aesthetic. He layered a crisp, formal dress shirt paired with a knotted tie along with tailored dress slacks that accentuated his 7-foot-4 frame. Wembanyama completed his look with black shoes.MORE: Victor Wembanyama performs hilarious good luck gesture before NBA FinalsThe NBA posted a clip of his tunnel walk on X.Fans shared their reactions and what they expect from him in the series opener in the comments section.“The real MVP of the league at playing basketball & dressing well for the occasion,” one fan wrote.“A masterclass performance from him today no doubt about it,” a reaction read.“Like I said last time, professional male models better watch out. He’s pushing them towards compulsory redundancy,” one user said.“I swear Wemby is such a cool cat! AURA!” posted another.“Looks like a winner,” another fan commented.“time to dunk over the noisy knicks,” a comment read.Mar 14, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) hugs guard Stephon Castle (5) after the game against the Charlotte Hornets at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn ImagesVictor Wembanyama and the Spurs have momentumWembanyama and the Spurs are fresh off a Game 7 victory that dethroned the Oklahoma City Thunder. Their young core proved that they are not afraid of the moment and will be a problem for the competition for years to come.The big victory should fuel their Finals run against the veteran New York Knicks team. The Eastern Conference champions are looking to avenge the franchise’s 1999 NBA Finals loss to San Antonio and bring a championship to The Big Apple. However, Wembanyama and Co. are looking to win it all and potentially start a dynasty.

Senior Kyle Harrison fired a four-hitter with 10 strikeouts to power the Delsea Regional High School baseball team into the South Jersey Group 3 final with a 4-1 win over Toms River South on Wednesday.The fourth-seeded Crusaders (19-6) will look for its second sectional crown in three seasons when they host seventh-seeded Mainland in Friday’s sectional final.Harrison has been on a heater since May 12, only allowing one run in his last five appearances. The 10 strikeouts were his third double-digit K game of the season and he’s only allowed two hits and two walks over his last 14 innings.Harrison threw 112 pitches in his gem, silencing South for the final six innings after it pushed a run across in the first.Delsea’s offense was powered by leadoff hitter Milo Gebhard, who knocked in two runs and swiped a pair of bases. Dom Montana and Andrew Weir also drove in runs for the Crusaders.Mainland 7, Toms River East 0: Senior Will Hickman needed 90 pitches to cover seven shutout innings as he blanked East and sent Mainland into the sectional final.The Mustangs will play for their first sectional title since 2023 when they travel to Delsea’s for Friday’s final.Central Jersey Group 3Northern Burlington 7, Lawrence 6: After coughing up a five-run lead in the top of the seventh, the defending state champion earned its way back to the sectional final by pushing across two runs in the bottom of the frame to fight off elimination.The top-seeded Greyhounds (24-3) will host third-seeded Brick Memorial (23-7) in Friday’s sectional championship.Liam Velit and Mark Klusman launched homers and Jake Vasil came off the bench to swat a two-run home run to power Northern Burlington.Velit finished with three hits and Klusman had two RBIs.Cole Marchetti fired five shutout innings with 10 strikeouts for Northern, but left the game after 98 pitches. He gave up two hits and three walks.South Jersey Group 4Eastern 10, Cherry Hill East 1: After splitting the regular-season series with East, the Vikings earned a trip to the sectional final for the fourth consecutive season by knocking off the Cougars.Second-seeded Eastern will go for its third South Jersey crown in the last four years when it travels to top-seeded Kingsway on Friday. Game time is to be determined.Senior Vinny Milillo collected career hit No. 100 for Eastern while junior Matt Gryskiewicz launched a two-run homer for Eastern, which scored the final seven runs of the game.Eastern’s defense was solid, turning three double-plays in the first four frames.Kingsway 4, Rancocas Valley 1:Nate Bott returned to the mound and spun four strong innings en route to the win as the Dragons advanced to the sectional title game for the first time since 2022.Nursing a shoulder injury, Bott had only pitched two innings before Wednesday’s appearance. He was outstanding over his four innings of work, allowing one run on three hits with one walk and five strikeouts.Senior Jake Mangifesta was even better as the southpaw worked three innings of one-hit ball en route to the save.South Jersey Group 2Haddonfield 1, Seneca 0: Will Solak fired a four-hitter and James Rowe drove in the game’s lone run in the sixth inning as the defending champion Haddons checked back into the sectional final.Get ready for Haddonfield-Haddon Heights III after the two teams split the regular-season series.Top-seeded Haddonfield (22-6) will host its Colonial Conference foe and second-seeded Haddon Heights (19-7) on Friday at Russ Spicer Field. Haddonfield won 9-5 on May 5 while Heights earned a 9-8 decision on April 13.Solak needed just 71 pitches to polish of his gem. He held Seneca to four singles and one walk over seven innings, striking out six. In his last 14 frames, which included a no-hitter against Collingswood on May 28, Solak has fanned 22 batters.Rowe had a pair of hits, none bigger than the knock that scored Lino Tete in the fifth.Haddon Heights 8, Cedar Creek 6: Ryan Govito and Jackson Butler each had two hits and two RBIs while Cole Simon contributed two hits and two runs scored to power the Garnets win.Haddon Heights pushed across two runs in the bottom of the sixth en route to the victory. The Garnets will attempt to win their first sectional title since 2022 when they face Haddonfield.Jaxon Motta had three hits, two runs scored and an RBI for Heights, which had 10 knocks, five walks and five stolen bases in the game.JJ Watkins had a two-run homer for Cedar Creek, which finished at 18-10.South Jersey Group 1Maple Shade 6, Schalick 4: The fourth-seeded Wildcats eliminated the top-seeded Cougars, rallying from a three-run deficit to accomplish the feat.Maple Shade (16-9) will look for its third sectional title and its first since 2008 when it travels to second-seeded Woodstown for Friday’s final.Edward Leahy had two hits and two RBIs to spark the Maple Shade offense. Anthony Schafer contributed three hits and Chase Blum scored twice.Braydon Morgano was impressive in relief for Maple Shade, throwing 4 2/3 innings of shutout ball. He gave up two hits and walked on.Woodstown 6, Pennsville 3: Blake Rodriguez went 2-for-2 with a homer, two runs scored and two RBIs and Walker Battavio chipped in a pair of knocks and three RBIs as the Wolverines advanced to the sectional final.Woodstown (20-8) is seeking its first South Jersey Group 1 crown since it won back-to-back titles in 2021 and 2022.Tom McGurk is a regional sports editor for the Courier-Post, The Daily Journal and Burlington County Times, covering South Jersey sports for over 35 years. If you have a sports story that needs to be told, contact him by email at tmcgurk@usatodayco.com. Follow him on Twitter at @McGurkSports. Help support local journalism with a digital subscription.This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: South Jersey baseball semifinal round roundup

PACIFIC PALISADES, Calif. – Nelly Korda is the undisputed favorite this week at Riviera, with BetMGM putting her odds at +400. World No. 1s haven't exactly thrived, however, at the U.S. Women's Open in recent decades.LPGA Hall of Famer Inbee Park is the last No. 1 to win the Women's Open in 2013. Before that, it was Annika Sorenstam in 2006, the year the Rolex Rankings debuted.What's happened in the women's game in recent years at the majors, in fact, stands in stark contrast to the men's side. Of the last 10 men's major, seven winners were ranked in the top 3 of the Official World Golf Rankings at the time of their victory. In LPGA majors, only three of the last 17 major winners were in the top 10 at the time (Korda, 2024 and 2026 Chevron) and Lilia Vu (2023 AIG Women's British Open).Over the past 10 years, the winners of the U.S. Women's Open had an average ranking of 30. Last year's champion, Maja Stark, was 33rd in the world when she won. The highest-ranked player to win in the past decade was No. 4 Minjee Lee in 2022 at Pine Needles.YearWinnerRanking2025Maja Stark332024Yuka Saso302023Allisen Corpuz292022Minjee Lee42021Yuka Saso402020A Lim Kim942019Jeongeun Lee6172018Ariya Jutanugarn52017Sung Hung Park112016Brittany Lang40Stats courtesy Elias Sports BureauThis article originally appeared on Golfweek: No. 1s have struggled at the U.S. Open. Can Nelly Korda buck trend?

BOSTON — In addition to the usual batting practice and fielding drills, the Red Sox spent some additional pre-game time Tuesday on refining their ABS challenges.With interim manager Chad Tracy serving as a makeshift umpire behind the plate, the Red Sox rotated all three of their catchers and another three or so hitters at the plate, in an effort to refine their approach to ball-and-strike challenges.According to Baseball Savant, Sox hitters have been among the least successful teams on a percentage basis, getting just 38 percent of their calls right when it comes to overturning challenges, with only Cleveland and Atlanta ranked below them.On the defensive side, the Red Sox haven’t been much better, ranked 24th among all MLB teams with a success rate — mostly initiated by catchers — at just 51 percent.“We just haven’t been as good at it as we need to be,” said Tracy. “We put some steps into place before we left on the road trip and saw some good results in the couple games in Cleveland, especially the last day. But broadly, sometimes we don’t challenge enough and maybe we hold too many, just waiting for big moments, when there’s a lot of egregious calls prior to that we know...it’s not a strike.“So we got together as a group and asked, ‘What are some things that we can do?’ to help guys convert what looks like confidence and encourages them to (challenge). You can steal three or four strikes before you ‘waste’ one, if you will. If we can grab two or three strikes before we actually lose one, that’s a good thing.”The team has plenty of data to draw upon, and can let individual hitters know where strikes are being called for each — rightly and wrongly.“We have a pretty good idea where each guy on our team gets balls called strikes and for a lot of guys, there are similarities,” said Tracy. “For this guy, it’s seems to be on the outer rail; for this guy, it seems to be below the zone. So making them aware of where you usually get strikes called on you specifically that you’re hesitant to (challenge). And if we can put some confidence around that, maybe we can get some calls overturned.”Timing is essential, as the Cleveland Guardians found out Sunday. When they were out of challenges on a pitch called a ball to Wilyer Abreu that looked like a strike, it opened the door for a big inning which benefited the Red Sox.“If you have one left, maybe you can prevent that,” said Tracy. “It’s finding a balance between (preserving them) and not giving away five strikes earlier in the game just because it’s not bases loaded.”More Red Sox coverageRoman Anthony injury: Red Sox outfielder still not swinging after latest setbackRed Sox promote third player from Caleb Durbin trade; ‘Very good eye at the plate’Red Sox’ Isiah Kiner-Falefa revisits remarks about team’s poor play at Fenway; ‘Something’s just not clicking’Red Sox ‘aggressively looking’ for right-handed bat, MLB insider saysRed Sox lineup: Mickey Gasper starting at C for fifth time in past eight games Read the original article on MassLive. Add MassLive as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Logan Webb of the San Francisco Giants hasn’t allowed a hit through six innings against the Milwaukee Brewers on Wednesday night.The Giants led 1-0 on Victor Bericoto’s first career homer, which led off the fifth inning.Webb has thrown 85 pitches and has struck out four batters while walking one. His highest pitch total of the season was 104, in a 9-3 victory over the San Diego Padres on March 31.Webb didn't allow a baserunner until Sal Frelick led off the sixth by walking on a 3-2 pitch that missed high. Frelick advanced to third on a pair of groundouts before Christian Yelich hit a grounder to first to end the inning.Brice Turang produced the greatest threat to Webb’s no-hit bid when he grounded to third to close the fourth. Matt Chapman went a few steps to his right to backhand the ball before throwing to first.There has been one no-hitter in the majors this season. Tatsuya Imai, Steven Okert and Alimber Santa of the Houston Astros combined to hold the Texas Rangers hitless in a 9-0 victory on May 25.The Giants’ last no-hitter came from Blake Snell in a 3-0 win over Cincinnati on Aug. 2, 2024.___AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB

Jalen Brunson injury updates: Latest news on Knicks guard after leaving Game 1 vs Spurs with knee pain originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.There hasn't been a grander stage for the New York Knicks in decades than Wednesday's matchup against the Spurs.With the 2026 NBA Finals getting under way in San Antonio, the Knicks were looking to extend their playoff win streak to 12 games and steal a road matchup in Game 1. Early on, Jalen Brunson helped set the tone — but then there was concern for New York's superstar guard.Brunson exited the game in the first quarter, grabbing at his knee after taking a hit.Here's the latest on Brunson's status after leaving Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals.NBA PLAYOFFS HQ:Live NBA scores | NBA playoff schedule | NBA playoff bracketJalen Brunson injury updatesAfter scoring the first bucket of the 2026 NBA Finals, Brunson and the Knicks were playing well in the first quarter, attacking Victor Wembanyama and making it clear they would make a difficult opponent for the Spurs, even at home.But on a defensive rebound, Harrison Barnes fell as Landry Shamet pushed him aside — and as Barnes fell, he landed on Brunson's right leg.Brunson immediately grabbed the knee in pain, and he motioned to the bench to come out of the game.Jalen Brunson was seen grabbing at his knee after a collision with Harrison Barnes.pic.twitter.com/BdsbrupknQ— The Sporting News (@sportingnews) June 4, 2026The star guard was then seen heading back to the locker room to be examined, walking with a clear limp.Jalen Brunson headed back to the locker room.Prayers up. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Sf0YnYUd65— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) June 4, 2026This story will be updated.

Fans won’t be able to bring their own water bottles into World Cup games this summer after all. FIFA made a late policy change and will no longer allow fans to bring their own water bottles into World Cup games at venues in North America this summer, according to The Athletic’s Adam Crafton and Matt Slater.Previously, the plan to let fans to bring in “empty, transparent, reusable plastic bottles” up to one liter in capacity into stadiums. But FIFA has since informed ticket holders that the code of conduct has been updated to no longer allow fans to bring them in. The new guidance, according to The Athletic, now reads: “For the avoidance of doubt, reusable water bottles may not be brought into the stadium.”That also means that fans can’t refill empty bottles at water fountains or dispensers at the stadium. Play 2026 Soccer Pick 'Em with FOX One and make your picks for the world's biggest soccer tournamentIt’s not clear how much FIFA is planning to charge fans for water at venues this summer, though that will likely vary slightly by location in the United States, Canada and Mexico. At the Club World Cup last summer, water cost between $4 and $6, though fans were allowed to bring water bottles into venues then. FIFA said the change was done to “prevent risk and injury to players and attendees.”“Outside bottles are already prohibited at several of these venues for safety considerations, and FIFA is applying this consideration across its tournament stadiums,” FIFA said in a statement, via The Athletic.“FIFA works closely with each Host City Committee and local authorities on heat mitigation factors for fans traveling to the stadium, which can include resources such as misting stations, fans, hydration stations, cooling tents, and more around the stadium footprint.“Inside the stadium footprint, pricing for water bottles for the FIFA World Cup 2026 will remain consistent with other events held at each stadium.”While water will still be available for purchase, heat is absolutely expected to be an issue at games throughout the tournament. The World Weather Attribution, an international research group, said last month that 26 of the 104 World Cup games are likely to be played when the host city’s Wet Bulb Global Temperature exceeds 26 degrees. At least five games are likely to be played when WBGT exceeds 28 degrees, which is when there’s an increased risk of serious heat illness for players and fans. WBGT, via The Athletic, is a combination of temperature, humidity, wind and sunlight. The World Cup is set to start on June 11 in Mexico City with a match between Mexico and South Africa. As of Wednesday night, which is more than a week out, it’s expected to feel as warm as 84 degrees Fahrenheit in Mexico City that day, via Accuweather.

Could there be more trouble brewing in Westwood for Mick Cronin and the UCLA Bruins? Cronin hasn’t been averse to controversy since taking over the UCLA basketball program back in 2019 and there hasn’t been any signs of that stopping.The most recent bit of Cronin drama stems from a pair of former Bruin basketball players, Donovan Dent and Devin Williams. Dent was with UCLA last year while Williams was with the Bruins program from 2023-2025. Williams posted a TikTok slideshow featuring photos from his time in Westwood with the caption “darkest time of ma life” and in the comments Dent added a “!!!” comment.Williams replied to Dent’s comment with another message that doesn’t reflect greatly on Cronin or the program, saying “gotta be in it to understand what mfs went thru.”While it is possible that Williams and Dent’s issues had nothing to do with Cronin or the UCLA basketball program, but how likely is that really? Dent and Williams’ careers at UCLA did not overlap but still seem to be relating to the same experience.Both players have since moved onto other things, Williams has committed to play at Seton Hall next season, while Dent has announced that he’s retiring from his playing career and is moving onto a coaching career.It’s more than just the lone incident though, the RecruitsNews Instagram page posted the news of Dent retiring, and in the comment section Williams left a cryptic message of “we know the truth.” It’d be one thing if the drama was paired with success for the Bruins but UCLA hasn’t reached the Sweet 16 since 2023 and haven’t proven to be able to compete for a conference title since moving to the Big Ten in 2024.This article originally appeared on UCLA Wire: Donovan Dent and Devin Williams don't seem to miss being a UCLA Bruin

Walker Buehler #10 of the San Diego Padres grips his hat against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.PHILADELPHIA --The Philadelphia Phillies defeated the San Diego Padres, 3-2, on June 3, 2026 at Citizens Bank Park. TST Photographer Robert Sloter was on the field to capture the action and following images.Cristopher Sanchez #61 of the Philadelphia Phillies throws a pitch against the San Diego Padres at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Robert Sloter - The Sporting TribuneCristopher Sanchez #61 of the Philadelphia Phillies throws a pitch against the San Diego Padres at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Walker Buehler #10 of the San Diego Padres throws a pitch against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Robert Sloter - The Sporting TribuneWalker Buehler #10 of the San Diego Padres throws a pitch against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Xander Bogaerts #2 of the San Diego Padres throws to first base against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Robert Sloter - The Sporting TribuneXander Bogaerts #2 of the San Diego Padres throws to first base against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Manny Machado #13 of the San Diego Padres throws to first base against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Robert Sloter - The Sporting TribuneManny Machado #13 of the San Diego Padres throws to first base against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Walker Buehler #10 of the San Diego Padres throws a pitch against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Robert Sloter - The Sporting TribuneWalker Buehler #10 of the San Diego Padres throws a pitch against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Walker Buehler #10 of the San Diego Padres grips his hat against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Robert Sloter - The Sporting TribuneWalker Buehler #10 of the San Diego Padres grips his hat against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Ty France #25 of the San Diego Padres celebrates against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Robert Sloter - The Sporting TribuneTy France #25 of the San Diego Padres celebrates against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Jackson Merrill #3 of the San Diego Padres hits an RBI single in the seventh inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Robert Sloter - The Sporting TribuneJackson Merrill #3 of the San Diego Padres hits an RBI single in the seventh inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Ty France #25 of the San Diego Padres rounds the bases to score against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Robert Sloter - The Sporting TribuneTy France #25 of the San Diego Padres rounds the bases to score against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Jason Adam #40 of the San Diego Padres throws a pitch against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Robert Sloter - The Sporting TribuneJason Adam #40 of the San Diego Padres throws a pitch against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Kyle Schwarber #12 of the Philadelphia Phillies hits a home run against the San Diego Padres at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Robert Sloter - The Sporting TribuneKyle Schwarber #12 of the Philadelphia Phillies hits a home run against the San Diego Padres at Citizens Bank Park on June 3, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Few players have earned more praise this spring than Keondre Jackson. Special teams coordinator Anthony Levine Sr. said Jackson has continued to build on the momentum he created last season."Last year, Keondre Jackson had a really good year," Levine said. "He started playing for us, came in making plays and was a key contributor for us."Now the challenge is proving he can do it again."My advice to him is to make sure that he's being consistent because you have to do it day-in and day-out, year after year," Levine said.Levine believes Jackson has already embraced that challenge."He's more vocal. He's standing out. He's doing a great job," Levine said.The special teams coordinator also highlighted the traits that make Jackson valuable."He's a physical player. He's fast. He's smart and plays with great effort," Levine said. "What I want Keondre to do is make plays," he said. "That's what he does."Levine's message is simple.This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Anthony Levine Sr. praises Keondre Jackson growth

The Texas Tech softball team is back in the Women's College World Series championship for the second year in a row, taking on the Texas Longhorns starting Thursday night.It's a much-anticipated rematch between the two programs, who faced off in the best-of-three series last year - with UT winning that series 2-1.The Red Raiders are hoping for a better outcome in the 2026 WCWS championship series, which started Thursday evening at Devon Park in Oklahoma City.And fans were taking to social media to share their excitement, reactions and hot takes.Peanut the dog was decked out in scarlet and blackPeanut is on the way to the WCWS @JackieLis00#wreckempic.twitter.com/zW3gG4w7KX— Becky Lis (@rlis10) June 3, 2026Red Raiders drawing eyes so far in the WCWSTexas Tech's first games in OKC were pulling solid ratings.The 4 highest viewed games at the entire Women’s College World Series are:Texas Tech vs Alabama (2 mil)Texas Tech vs Alabama (2 mil)Texas Tech vs UCLA (2 mil)Texas Tech vs Tennessee (1.9 mil)The two semifinal games between Tennessee vs Texas had 1.0 and 1.5 million viewers pic.twitter.com/SaPU99xGVR— Ohio’s Tate (@OhioTate) June 3, 2026Already giving up on Game 1?They didn't strike first, but the Longhorns jumped to an early 5-1 leading going into the 3rd.Guess we’re going 3 game— Road Raiders (@road_raiders) June 4, 2026Texas Tech WCWS series may wreck some little Red Raiders' bedtimes But it's summer and it's not a school night!sign of the night. Confirmed. #WCWS 🤝 @NCAASoftballpic.twitter.com/oUZeWKKhoA— Big 12 Conference (@Big12Conference) June 3, 2026TTU football's Kenny Perry eyeing Mihyia Davis for the fallCan she have another year of eligibility, NCAA?Posts by CoachKennyPerryThis article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Social media reacts to Texas Tech take on UT in WCWS softball finals

Red Sox's Rival Trades For Veteran Starting Pitcher Amid Slew Of Pitching Injuries originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Boston Red Sox are still looking to get on a roll and start playing better baseball, and like them, their division rivals are not giving up despite a slow start.The Toronto Blue Jays are not playing great right now. They came into the season with lofty expectations. They won the American League last year and spent big in free agency. However, injuries have derailed their season. However, they are still making moves to try to stay afloat while they get healthy.On Wednesday, they traded for Minnesota Twins pitcher Simeon Woods Richardson. Woods Richardson was designated for assignment on Saturday and the Blue Jays acquired him for cash. Woods Richardson has struggled with consistency, but has pitched in 65 big league games in the last five seasons.He has made 61 career starts, and could be an option to start games for the Blue Jays. José Berríos and Cody Ponce are out for the year, Dylan Cease and Max Scherzer are on the injured list but rehabbing, and Shane Bieber is still weeks away from returning.The Blue Jays need arms to eat innings. The Blue Jays are 29-33, but far from out of the race. The American League has been weak, and they are just a couple of games out of a wild card spot. Both the Blue Jays and the Red Sox have time to turn things around. The Blue Jays are making moves to stay afloat while they get healthy, but the Red Sox may need to make moves to upgrade at some spots.The Blue Jays will be a force when healthy. The Red Sox are getting healthy as well, but their issues have more to do with players underperforming.More MLB: Red Sox Slugger Finally Snaps 20-Game Home Run Drought

The Pittsburgh Steelers are getting their roster locked up with extensions. With a new coach in Mike McCarthy, the team is making sure they have some of its young players under contract for an extended period of time. They are looking to make it back into the playoffs after winning the AFC North last season, but not winning a playoff game. Let’s take a closer look at who it was and what it means for the Pittsburgh Steelers going forward.The Pittsburgh Steelers extend tight end Darnell WashingtonDec 15, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Darnell Washington (80) runs with the ball in the second quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn ImagesESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that the Pittsburgh Steelers have agreed to an extension with tight end Darnell Washington on Wednesday night. The extension is a four-year, $42 million deal and has $21 million of it guaranteed. Washington had his season cut short due to a broken arm, but he was able to play in 16 games before the injury. He recorded 31 receptions on 43 targets for 364 yards (11.7 yards per catch) with one receiving touchdown. As the team’s projected starting tight end ahead of Pat Friermuth and fifth-round rookie Riley Nowakowski, this shows some confidence in the 2023 third-round pick from Georgia.This is the second contract extension that the Pittsburgh Steelers dished out in the last two days, after extending linebacker Nick Herbig on Tuesday. The Steelers are hoping to have a significant offensive threat, and the tight end position can be an underrated part of McCarthy’s system. With quarterback Aaron Rodgers having some chemistry with him, he is going to be at best the third option for defenses to target behind wide receivers DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. It will be intriguing to see how the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offense looks with Rodgers back under center and now a tight end locked in for the next handful of seasons.The post Pittsburgh Steelers Extend Another Player Ahead of the 2026 Season appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.

Prior to Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals, the league's commissioner, Adam Silver, delivered a semi-annual State of the Game address, and, man, does it seem strong.After all, the New York Knicks, playing in the hemisphere's biggest media market, will face the San Antonio Spurs, featuring Victor Wembanyama, the new face of the NBA.In addition to touting his new "3-2-1" draft lottery reform, Silver touched on the NBA's likely expansion into Seattle and Las Vegas and its expected expansion into Europe.Play 2026 Soccer Pick 'Em with FOX One and make your picks for the world's biggest soccer tournamentNot even a question about the Aspiration scandal could curb Silver's enthusiasm.Let's run through the highlights.Lottery reformSilver called tanking a decades-long problem and "not a new issue for the league." He was surprised by two things: 1) how rampant the issue became, involving a third of the league this season, and 2) how quickly the board of governors responded.While tanking has existed for practically the entire history of the league, it felt different this season, according to Silver, involving more teams than ever before and occurring earlier in the season than ever before. The commissioner, of course, fined the Utah Jazz $500,00 and the Indiana Pacers $100,000 for tanking in February.Team owners, front offices, coaches and players were "largely" on the same page regarding lottery reform, Silver said. (The Memphis Grizzlies were reportedly the lone dissenting vote against reform, because a first-round pick of theirs was impacted.)"I'm thrilled, frankly, that we got this done this year," said Silver.As team-building looks different in years to come, as planning for the draft becomes more difficult, and as the league's salary restrictions have complicated free agency and trades, scouting is more important than ever, according to the commissioner."There's no incentive to be bad," said Silver, making a declarative statement that may come back to bite him, "and this is something we haven't seen before in this league."NBA EuropeThe NBA is forging ahead with its plan to field a 16-team league in Europe for the 2027-28 season. NBA Europe will reported feature 12 permanent teams — including some existing franchises and some new ones — as well as four open slots for clubs across the continent to play their way into the league. Bids for teams are due at the end of this month, and there is reportedly "record interest" in the available franchises."We are very much on schedule," said Silver.The NBA plans to award franchises in the fall, according to the commissioner.NBA expansion"Discussions are ongoing" with multiple groups in both cities about the league's expected expansion into Seattle and Las Vegas, Silver said. "It's not a foregone conclusion that we will expand," but the NBA will make its decision by year's end.65-game ruleAs a number of stars across the league fell short of 65 games played this year, thus failing to qualify for postseason awards, there was some question about whether the NBA would make a change, loosening a rule aimed at increasing player participation.Do not expect one."I'm frankly not ready to support a change," said Silver. "I think the rule is working."Aspiration scandalAsked about the Aspiration scandal, or alleged salary-cap circumvention by the Los Angeles Clippers, Silver said there is some urgency behind a determination — "it can't take forever" — but "the most important thing is that we have to get it right.""I wouldn't be doing my job if I made a determination based on perception," he said.The investigation is being conducted by an independent law firm. Meanwhile, Pablo Torre won a Pulitzer Prize for his investigation into the scandal, and the Aspiration co-founder was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for pleading guilty to wire fraud.

A 10x Pro Bowl NFL quarterback has officially decided to hang up his cleats for good. The official announcement was released on Wednesday night and has had fans reminiscing ever since. From the moment he entered the league he was a human highlight reel, constantly showing up in big moments and eventually becoming a Super Bowl champion.Here in the announcement.Also Read: “What Happened To His Eye??” Eagles’ Cooper DeJean Draws Concern During InterviewFeb 8, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell looks on before Super Bowl LX between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesLegendary NFL Quarterback Retires From The LeagueRussell Wilson, a ten-time Pro Bowl quarterback, announced Wednesday on social media that he is retiring from the NFL to take a job with CBS Sports.This announcement comes two days after news broke that Wilson would be joining CBS’ Sunday NFL pregame show as an analyst.“As I enter this next chapter with CBS Sports and ‘The NFL Today,’ I’m so blessed to continue doing what I love most — being around the greatest game in the world,” he said in the video.Following his selection by Seattle in the third round of the 2012 NFL draft, Wilson played 14 seasons. As he spent the first ten seasons of his career with the Seahawks, he led them to their first Super Bowl victory in 2013. Following the 2021 season, he was traded to the Denver Broncos and spent two up and down years with the team before playing one season in Pittsburgh and another in the New York Giants‘ system.In all, Wilson threw for 46,966 yards and 353 touchdowns, as well as 114 interceptions.According to ESPN:Per ESPN Sources:He joins Peyton Manning and Dan Marino as the only quarterbacks to throw at least 20 touchdown passes in each of their first three seasons and is one of seven signal-callers to be selected to 10 Pro Bowls.Wilson is the only player in NFL history with at least 30 touchdown passes and fewer than 15 interceptions in four straight seasons. He also had three seasons with at least 30 TD passes and 500 yards rushing, which is the most in NFL history.Here is his retirement video: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ian Rapoport (@rapsheet)Related Reading:Eagles’ 2026 First Round Draft Pick Makai Lemon Goes Down With Brutal Injury (Breaking News)“Old Videos Surfaced” NFL Star Dating High Schooler Goes Viral (Watch)“I Count 7 Squad Cars” Gaints’ Malik Nabers Pulled Over By Police, Incident Goes Viral (Watch)Breaking News: Cowboys Sign 24-Year-Old Wide Receiver In Shocking Twist (Report)“He’s Wanted Right Now” Superstar Has Arrest Warrant Issued (Breaking News)“It’s Official” Former NFL Veteran Quarterback Converts To Sports Agent (Breaking News)The post Breaking: 10x Pro Bowl NFL Quarterback Retires From The League appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.

NEW YORK (AP) — Jonquel Jones had 22 points and 17 rebounds to help the New York Liberty beat the Toronto Tempo 97-82 on Wednesday night.Breanna Stewart added 19 points, including 17 in the second half, for the Liberty (6-4), who have won three straight games. New York was still missing guard Sabrina Ionescu, who is sidelined with a back issue. Coach Chris DeMarco said at morning shootaround that his All-Star guard was getting better. She’s only played in one game this season.The game marked the return of former Liberty coach Sandy Brondello, who led the franchise to its first WNBA championship in 2024. The Liberty let her go after last season. The franchise’s winningest coach received a warm ovation from the crowd when she was introduced before the game.She’s now in charge of the expansion Tempo and has guided them to a strong start. The loss dropped the Tempo (5-5) to .500 and ended a two-game winning streak.New York trailed 22-17 early in the second quarter before going on a 15-2 run capped by two 3-pointers by Satou Sabally. The first came in transition over her sister Nyara, who was taken by the Tempo from the Liberty in the expansion draft this offseason.The Liberty led 40-34 at the half as Jones finished the opening 20 minutes with 17 points and 12 rebounds.They put the game away in the third quarter as Stewart scored nine points after only having two in the first half. New York extended its lead to 70-58 and never looked back.Toronto had a scary moment with 1:33 left in the game. Rookie Kiki Rice had her shot blocked and her right leg bent backwards as she was landing. The No. 6 pick in the draft was down for a little bit before getting up and limping back to the locker room.Marina Mabrey and Brittney Sykes each scored 17 points to lead the Tempo.Up nextTempo: host Chicago Sky on Sunday.Liberty: host Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever on Saturday night.

The ask of the Cincinnati Reds' bullpen was to once again hold late in a tie game. Similarly, the task for the Reds' was bats to deliver again in the late innings. Both asks proved to be too much.A night after a rousing comeback win in 10 innings against the Kansas City Royals, the Reds on June 3 managed to pull even from an early 2-0 deficit but lost 5-2 at Great American Ball Park. Reliever Tony Santillan allowed three runs in the top of the ninth inning, with Michael Massey singling in the go-ahead run for a 3-2 lead.Nick Loftin then gave the Royal some cushion with a two-run homer.In the bottom of the ninth, Spencer Steer started things with a double down the left-field line but Will Benson and Edwin Arroyo both struck out. The freshly promoted Noelvi Marte then walked to reach base in his first at-bat since being recalled from Triple-A Louisville.That brought the tying run to the plate in Blake Dunn, the prior night's walk-off hero in the 10th inning. Dunn had also hit the game-tying, two-run homer in the fifth inning, but flew out to end the series finale.Reds starter Chase Burns (7-1, no decision) allowed first inning two-run homer to Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino. Those runs on the Dunn home run was all Cincinnati (31-30) could muster in the finale as they also lost the series to the Royals, who entered play tied for the worst record in baseball at 23-38.Burns, coming off an illness and being scratched from starting the June 1 series opener, went six innings and allowed four hits and one walk. He struck out nine as he ERA drifted up slightly from 1.96 to 2.05. The Enquirer will update this game report. Recapping a busy Reds homestand Being a Reds fan the last few days required some mettle. The club had to grit out its now-concluded homestand, on and off the field.Just look at this overview of the news cycle from the Reds' most recent homestand:Day 1: May 29 − Reds lose to Atlanta Braves 8-3; Graham Ashcraft goes on the 60-day IL (UCL sprain, right elbow). Selected reliever Yunior Marte from Triple-A.Day 2: May 30 − Reds lose to the Braves 5-2; Pierce Johnson goes on the 15-day IL (right elbow inflammation). Reliever Kyle Nicolas designated for assignment. Day 3: May 31 − Reds beat Braves 6-4; Elly De La Cruz hurt (hamstring tightness), removed from game. Day 4: June 1 − Reds lose to Kansas City Royals 9-2; Elly De La Cruz placed on 10-day IL (hamstring strain), prospect Edwin Arroyo selected from Triple-A and collects first MLB hit. Reds select Ben Leibrandt from Triple-A. Chase Burns scratched from start (illness). Yunior Marte designated for assignment.Day 5: June 2 − Reds beat the Royals 4-3 in 10 innings; Lyon Richardson, Ben Leibrandt designated for assignment. Reliever Luis Mey recalled from Triple-A. Day 6: June 3 − Reds lose to Royal 5-2; Veteran outfielder TJ Friedl optioned to Triple-A, Noelvi Marte called up from Triple-A.There have been other newsy notes and happenings along the way, including some encouraging movement regarding the starting staff. After three solid starts and amassing 15 innings, Chris Paddack moved to the Reds bullpen and was available there June 3. Also, Rhett Lowder will remain with Triple-A Louisville to workout following his June 2 rehab start and rejoin the Reds when they arrive in St. Louis for three games June 5-7. Lowder will also pitch in the series. After landing on the IL May 10, Lowder on June 2 allowed three runs and six hits across five innings against the Memphis Redbirds, throwing 50 of 70 pitches for strikes in his first competitive outing since exiting his May 7 start against the Chicago Cubs with an injury. Lowder struck out eight batters and didn’t issue a walk in Louisville's game against the Memphis Redbirds. Next up for the Reds | On the road at St. Louis, San DiegoThe Reds have a chance on their upcoming roadtrip to put a dent in the National League Central race, as well as in the NL Wild Card race.First up, Cincinnati will have a chance to improve on its 2-10 record against NL Central opposition when it travels to play the St. Louis Cardinals June 5-7 at Busch Stadium. The Reds, who split a May 23 doubleheader in their only two games against the Cardinals so far in 2026, will begin the series with Brady Singer (2-5, 6.18 ERA) facing Kyle Leahy (5-3, 4.25 ERA) on June 5 for a scheduled 8:15 p.m. EDT first pitch. In the June 6 middle game, Nick Lodolo (2-1, 5.20 ERA) will go up against Matthew Liberatore (3-3, 4.35 ERA). The June 7 finale will see Lowder make his first start since May 7 at Wrigley Field. He's scheduled to be opposed by Michael McGreevy (3-5, 2.98 ERA). The second and third games of the Reds-Cardinals series are scheduled for 2:15 p.m. EDT starts. St. Louis will enter the series following a series defeat against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field. Cincinnati will then head west to Petco Park to face a Padres team (32-28) that was swept in three games by the Philadelphia Phillies and had lost four in a row at the end of play on June 3. Prior to hosting Cincinnati, the Padres host the New York Mets, the last-place team in the NL East. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Reds lose game, series to Kansas City Royals

The ask of the Cincinnati Reds' bullpen was to once again hold late in a tie game. Similarly, the task for the Reds' was bats to deliver again in the late innings. Both asks proved to be too much.A night after a rousing comeback win in 10 innings against the Kansas City Royals, the Reds on June 3 managed to pull even from an early 2-0 deficit but lost 5-2 at Great American Ball Park. Reliever Tony Santillan allowed three runs in the top of the ninth inning, with Michael Massey singling in the go-ahead run for a 3-2 lead.Nick Loftin then gave the Royal some cushion with a two-run homer.In the bottom of the ninth, Spencer Steer started things with a double down the left-field line but Will Benson and Edwin Arroyo both struck out. The freshly promoted Noelvi Marte then walked to reach base in his first at-bat since being recalled from Triple-A Louisville.That brought the tying run to the plate in Blake Dunn, the prior night's walk-off hero in the 10th inning. Dunn had also hit the game-tying, two-run homer in the fifth inning, but flew out to end the series finale.Reds starter Chase Burns (7-1, no decision) allowed first inning two-run homer to Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino. Those runs on the Dunn home run was all Cincinnati (31-30) could muster in the finale as they also lost the series to the Royals, who entered play tied for the worst record in baseball at 23-38.Burns, coming off an illness and being scratched from starting the June 1 series opener, went six innings and allowed four hits and one walk. He struck out nine as he ERA drifted up slightly from 1.96 to 2.05. The Enquirer will update this game report. Recapping a busy Reds homestand Being a Reds fan the last few days required some mettle. The club had to grit out its now-concluded homestand, on and off the field.Just look at this overview of the news cycle from the Reds' most recent homestand:Day 1: May 29 − Reds lose to Atlanta Braves 8-3; Graham Ashcraft goes on the 60-day IL (UCL sprain, right elbow). Selected reliever Yunior Marte from Triple-A.Day 2: May 30 − Reds lose to the Braves 5-2; Pierce Johnson goes on the 15-day IL (right elbow inflammation). Reliever Kyle Nicolas designated for assignment. Day 3: May 31 − Reds beat Braves 6-4; Elly De La Cruz hurt (hamstring tightness), removed from game. Day 4: June 1 − Reds lose to Kansas City Royals 9-2; Elly De La Cruz placed on 10-day IL (hamstring strain), prospect Edwin Arroyo selected from Triple-A and collects first MLB hit. Reds select Ben Leibrandt from Triple-A. Chase Burns scratched from start (illness). Yunior Marte designated for assignment.Day 5: June 2 − Reds beat the Royals 4-3 in 10 innings; Lyon Richardson, Ben Leibrandt designated for assignment. Reliever Luis Mey recalled from Triple-A. Day 6: June 3 − Reds lose to Royal 5-2; Veteran outfielder TJ Friedl optioned to Triple-A, Noelvi Marte called up from Triple-A.There have been other newsy notes and happenings along the way, including some encouraging movement regarding the starting staff. After three solid starts and amassing 15 innings, Chris Paddack moved to the Reds bullpen and was available there June 3. Also, Rhett Lowder will remain with Triple-A Louisville to workout following his June 2 rehab start and rejoin the Reds when they arrive in St. Louis for three games June 5-7. Lowder will also pitch in the series. After landing on the IL May 10, Lowder on June 2 allowed three runs and six hits across five innings against the Memphis Redbirds, throwing 50 of 70 pitches for strikes in his first competitive outing since exiting his May 7 start against the Chicago Cubs with an injury. Lowder struck out eight batters and didn’t issue a walk in Louisville's game against the Memphis Redbirds. Next up for the Reds | On the road at St. Louis, San DiegoThe Reds have a chance on their upcoming roadtrip to put a dent in the National League Central race, as well as in the NL Wild Card race.First up, Cincinnati will have a chance to improve on its 2-10 record against NL Central opposition when it travels to play the St. Louis Cardinals June 5-7 at Busch Stadium. The Reds, who split a May 23 doubleheader in their only two games against the Cardinals so far in 2026, will begin the series with Brady Singer (2-5, 6.18 ERA) facing Kyle Leahy (5-3, 4.25 ERA) on June 5 for a scheduled 8:15 p.m. EDT first pitch. In the June 6 middle game, Nick Lodolo (2-1, 5.20 ERA) will go up against Matthew Liberatore (3-3, 4.35 ERA). The June 7 finale will see Lowder make his first start since May 7 at Wrigley Field. He's scheduled to be opposed by Michael McGreevy (3-5, 2.98 ERA). The second and third games of the Reds-Cardinals series are scheduled for 2:15 p.m. EDT starts. St. Louis will enter the series following a series defeat against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field. Cincinnati will then head west to Petco Park to face a Padres team (32-28) that was swept in three games by the Philadelphia Phillies and had lost four in a row at the end of play on June 3. Prior to hosting Cincinnati, the Padres host the New York Mets, the last-place team in the NL East. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Reds lose game, series to Kansas City Royals

The Danville softball team scored seven runs in the third and fourth innings, freshman shortstop Dalayna Parker went 3 for 4 and senior first baseman Ruby Bartok homered to send the Blue Devils to an 11-4 win over Dalton in a Division VI state semifinal June 3 at Firestone Stadium in Akron.Senior pitcher Addy Bocock struck out 12 and scattered nine hits without a walk for Danville (24-5), which will face West Jefferson in an all-Central District final at 5:30 p.m. June 4.The Blue Devils trailed 2-0 after half an inning, but freshman third baseman Kaylee Martin led off with a single and Bartok drew a one-out walk before Parker singled in Martin to make it 2-1.Bartok’s one-out home run started the third-inning rally.Singles from Parker and sophomore designated player Liz John preceded a go-ahead single from Taylor Meade. Sophomore outfielder Riley Johnston followed with an infield single to score John.Parker drove in two more runs on another single in the fourth to increase the lead to 7-4, and an error brought in another run.John singled home freshman outfielder Hailey King in the sixth to make it 9-4, and two more runs scored on an error and a sacrifice.Freshman catcher Morgan Hinkens, John and Johnston each added two hits for Danville, which has made the final in each of its three trips to state. The Blue Devils won the Division IV title in 2008 and finished as runner-up in 2017.Danville’s win made central Ohio 4-0 in state semifinals June 3.Hilliard Bradley and Lancaster will meet in the Division I final at 3 p.m. June 4, and in the first Division VI semifinal West Jefferson shut out Van Wert Lincolnview 8-0.Danville and West Jefferson’s most recent meeting was in a district final last year. West Jefferson won 3-0.High school sports reporter Dave Purpura can be reached at dpurpura@dispatch.com and at @dp_dispatch on X.This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Danville to meet West Jefferson for OHSAA Division VI softball title

NEW YORK (AP) — José Ramírez launched one of Cleveland's three home runs off Gerrit Cole and finished with three hits for the second consecutive game as the Guardians beat the New York Yankees 5-4 on Wednesday night.New York slugger Aaron Judge missed his second game in a row because of a bone bruise in his upper right rib that's been causing pain in his right shoulder. Judge was scheduled to see a specialist Wednesday and the Yankees were still awaiting more information, manager Aaron Boone said before the game.Kyle Manzardo homered for the second straight night in the Bronx and doubled twice. Rhys Hoskins also went deep and drove in three runs for the Guardians, who improved to a major league-best 10-1 on the road since May 6.Cleveland, which has won 15 of 20 overall, will go for a three-game sweep Thursday afternoon in this matchup of American League contenders. Gavin Williams (9-3) allowed three runs and struck out six over 5 1/3 innings to win his fourth consecutive start for the Guardians, who won a series at Yankee Stadium for the first time since September 2021.Williams had lasted at least six innings in a career-high eight straight starts.Cade Smith allowed a run in the ninth before converting his big league-leading 21st save and 18th in a row.Including the postseason, New York had won nine of its past 10 completed series against Cleveland since 2022.Jazz Chisholm Jr. and José Caballero homered for the Yankees. Cody Bellinger had a pair of sacrifice flies.Cole (1-1) gave up four runs and six hits with only two strikeouts in 5 1/3 innings. The 2023 AL Cy Young Award winner had pitched 12 2/3 scoreless innings with 12 strikeouts in two starts this season since returning from reconstructive elbow surgery.Yankees designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton (right calf strain) and outfielder Jasson Domínguez (left shoulder strain) took live batting practice against teammate Angel Chivilli (right shoulder discomfort).Stanton is scheduled for a similar session Saturday. Domínguez will begin a minor league rehab assignment Friday.Guardians shortstop Gabriel Arias, on the 60-day injured list with a strained left hamstring, will start a rehab assignment Thursday at Triple-A Columbus.Up nextGuardians RHP Slade Cecconi (3-5, 5.25 ERA) was scheduled to face LHP Carlos Rodón (1-2, 3.32) in the series finale Thursday. ___AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB

You won't believe Julian Champagnie's salary and contract with Spurs originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The San Antonio Spurs have gotten off to an impressive early start against the New York Knicks in the first half of Game 1 during the 2026 NBA Finals. Holding a 55-48 lead, the Spurs have gotten contributions from multiple players, with Julian Champagnie at the top of that list. Champagnie, 24 years old, played college basketball at St. John's and is from New York. Now, he's dominating his hometown Knicks with 15 points, going 5-6 from 3-point range in the first half. He leads all scorers and is the only player with more than two threes so far.MORE: This is how much Chipotle is eaten by Mikal BridgesOn a court full of stars, no one would think he'd be the guy making the difference. Just wait until you hear about his contract.Julian Champagnie's salary and contractChampagnie was waived by the Philadelphia 76ers in February of 2023 before being picked up by the Spurs. He wasn't drafted out of St. John's either. However, the youngster has proven he belongs in the NBA, and the Spurs rewarded him with a contract during the 2023-24 season. Champagnie makes just $3 million per year, good for 1$12 million on a four-year deal. Even crazier, he only takes up 1.94% of the Spurs' cap percentage.San Antonio has been playing well due to its team effort throughout the entire year. Champagnie has been a major part of that.The New York native will look to continue playing the villain as he seeks his first ring in the NBA and, hopefully, a pay raise soon.More NBA news:We know how Mitchell Robinson likely got injuredJalen Brunson was there the last time the New York Knicks were in the NBA FinalsNYC mayor Zohran Mamdani gets rid of bedtime so everyone can watch Knicks in NBA Finals

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - JANUARY 8: Mario Cristobal of the Miami Hurricanes celebrates against the Ole Miss Rebels during the second half of CFP Semifinal Vrbo Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium on January 8, 2026 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by CFP/Getty Images) | Getty Images Man, what a month for Mario Cristobal and the Miami Hurricanes. And what a job they’ve done at pulling some of the top players in the country from some of the biggest marquee programs. It continued on Wednesday night for the Canes. Five-star Irmo, SC defensive lineman Jaiden Bryant flipped his commitment from LSU to Miami. He also says that he’s shutting down his recruitment as well. HOW ABOUT THEM CANES 🙌🏾Recruiting shut down‼️@coach_Cristobal@dtrain2901@kwincyhall0@canesfootball@coachfield@lewis_damione@jasontaylorpic.twitter.com/SgN9YyI97Z— Jaiden “Boog” Bryant 🦍 (@jboog24_) June 3, 2026It doesn’t take a rock scientist to discuss the impact of this pickup. Bryant is a game wrecker, and he’s one of the top defenders in the class for a reason. He’s No. 29 overall, No. 4 defensive lineman, and No. 1 player in South Carolina for the 2027 cycle in Rivals/On3 Sports’ industry rankings. Bryant was a part of the enormous visit list who came to Coral Gables last weekend, and the fruits of that labor are beginning to blossom for Miami’s staff. Bryant becomes the third big name recruit to flip in the last month from a marquee program. Five-star Long Beach, CA DB Donte Wright flipped from Georgia last month, and Ai’King Hall flipped from Oregon about a week later. He also becomes the third five-star recruit to join Miami’s 2027 class, joining Wright and five-star Miami Carol City WR Nick Lennear. Only Miami and Texas A&M (five) have more than two five-star commits thus far, so the Hurricanes’ third-place team ranking should come as no surprise. Welcome to the U, Jaiden!

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MAY 24: Alexis Mac Allister of Liverpool in action during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Brentford at Anfield on May 24, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Jack Thomas/Getty Images) | Getty Images Rumors surfaced linking Alexis Mac Allister with a move to Real Madrid in Argentinian newspaper Olé, but the player’s father has moved to dismiss the speculation.Speaking to Erem News, Carlos Mac Allister denied reports suggesting there has been contact between Real Madrid and the Liverpool midfielder’s camp.“What has been circulating about Alexis is false,” he said. “No one from Real Madrid has spoken to us so far. There is no new information about Alexis’s current situation at Liverpool.”Mac Allister was loosely mentioned as a potential target for Real Madrid in the wake of the club evaluating midfield options for the future. However, according to his father’s comments, there have been no developments regarding a possible move.

The gamesmanship for the NBA Finals between the San Antonio Spurs and New York Knicks started before tip-off of Game 1. During the visiting team’s player introductions, cartoon music echoed inside Frost Bank Center.However, the Knicks didn’t look affected by it and still had their game faces on. They went through their usual routines, with the bench unit hyping them with high-fives.MORE: 3 deciding factors in Knicks-Spurs NBA FinalsOvertime posted the clip on X, and viewers have since watched it close to 20,000 times.San Antonio secured homecourt advantage in the Finals by finishing with a better regular season record than New York. The Western Conference champions will host Games 1, 2, 5 and 7.May 25, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) and guard Jose Alvarado (5) help the team lift the trophy after defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers in game four of the eastern conference finals for the 2026 NBA playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn ImagesPassionate Knicks fans await for NBA Finals games in New YorkNew York fans are known for being one of the most passionate and loud fanbases in the world. They never shy away from showing support for their teams, and they are all-in again this season on the Knicks. Excitement has reached fever pitch in the city, and fans can’t wait to host Finals games at Madison Square Garden. The New York faithful are also likely looking forward to returning the favor of mocking the Spurs, especially with the player introductions on Wednesday. They are expected to flock the arena and areas surrounding it when the series shifts to The Big Apple. The Knicks are playing in their first championship series since 1999.Game 3 is set for Monday, while Game 4 is scheduled for June 10 at 8:30 p.m. ET. Game 6, if necessary, will also be played at MSG with the same starting time.

EAST LANSING — Abby Russell has experienced plenty of success during her career in the Haslett-Williamson girls lacrosse programBut when it comes to fun, nothing compared to this season for the senior and Pittsburgh signee.Russell felt there was a strong sisterhood within the Haslett-Williamston program. And she credits the strong connection within the team for helping the program make another deep state tournament run.And while the journey ended a win short of a state championship game appearance for Haslett-Williamston after a 20-6 state semifinal loss to East Grand Rapids on Wednesday, June 3,, Russell said her final high school sports experience was memorable."It was an incredible last ride," Russell said. "Obviously we wanted a better outcome this game tonight but I wouldn't have wanted to do it with anyone else. This is my family forever and I'm just so grateful for the opportunities that I got here."Russell was one of the big pieces for Haslett-Williamston as it made a fourth straight state semifinals appearance while finishing 18-2. The 18 victories were one of the top win totals for the program and one shy of the 19 wins the program had in each the 2023 and 2024 seasons. This year's 90% win rate was the best of the program."(It was) our sisterhood and the way we were able to connect with each other on and off the field this season." Russell said of the success. "Not only did it allow us to win a lot, it allowed us to have the most fun season I've had my entire career here so that was really special."Haslett-Williamston coach Kalli Miller said the group was very selfless while putting together another strong season where they were once again the top program in Greater Lansing"I think (our success) just shows how much determination and work we're putting in here and how much these girls just really play for one another and how hey just want to get it done at the end of the day," Miller said.In their bid to break through and reach the state championship game for the first time, Haslett-Williamston started strong. Haslett-Williamston scored the first two goals of the game within the opening three minutes. The game was tied at 5 in the early stages of the second quarter before East Grand Rapids closed the first half with eight straight goals to take control."I think we really came out hot and were competing really well against them," Miller said. "I think just trying to get over that mental block when they started to score a couple of goals was just our biggest threat in this game and I think it's what really deterred us at the end of the day. I'm proud of them for trying in the second half and continuing to fight through it."Contact Brian Calloway at bcalloway@lsj.com. Follow him on X @brian_calloway and Bluesky @briancalloway.This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Haslett-Williamston girls lacrosse has run halted in state semis

Russell Wilson and Ciara attend the 2022 ESPYsCredit: Momodu Mansaray/WireImageNEED TO KNOWCiara shared a message of support for her husband, Russell Wilson, amid his NFL retirementThe Super Bowl champion announced his retirement from football in an Instagram post on Wednesday, June 3He also confirmed he would be joining CBS Sports as an analyst post-retirementCiara is cheering on her husband Russell Wilson, amid his official announcement of his retirement from the NFL after a 14-year career.Wilson, 37, officially announced his retirement with a video shared on Instagram on Wednesday, June 3. In the touching video montage, featuring clips from his football career and photos and videos of his family, Wilson recounted his journey with the sport, and expressed gratitude for his time in the NFL.The video was shared as a joint Instagram post with Ciara, 40, the Seattle Seahawks, the NFL, and NFL on CBS, confirming that he will be joining CBS Sports as an analyst."The best in the world!" Ciara wrote in the comments. "There's only one, 3! Always so proud of you! It's a true blessing to go on this journey with you! My greatest inspiration! I love you so much! 🐐🫶🏽"The Super Bowl winner's football career began with "waking up before sunrise" with his father and brother, he says at the start of the video."But somewhere along the way, that love for football turned into more than just passion," Wilson continued in the narration of the video. "It was an obsession. You've been my joy, and peace, a safe place. You taught me discipline, faith, and resilience. How to keep believing no matter the circumstances."Ciara comments on Russell Wilson's retirementCredit: instagramWilson continued to reflect on the opportunities he has had in the NFL, and "the opportunity to inspire others and create change" for the "next generation of ballers." He specifically thanked former Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll for taking a chance on him in 2012."To Coach Carroll, thanks for taking a chance on a young 5'11 Black kid from Richmond, Virginia, that was told he was too small to ever make it in the NFL," Wilson said in the video.Wilson went on to thank his teammates for "the brotherhood" and "the memories" they shared over the years, as well as the fans who have supported him, before reflecting on his experience in Seattle while playing for the Seahawks."Seattle, you raised me," Wilson said. "Not just all the wins and crazy loud games, but also, the forever memories after we won the Super Bowl. But even more important, the kids at Seattle Children's Hospital, you gave me hope and belief in a better tomorrow. And hopefully, I did the same for you."Wilson also thanked Ciara, saying that he hopes he is "able to give" the "dream for greatness" his father gave him to the couple's four children."And I thank you C. Thank you Ciara for being my greatest blessing," Wilson said of his wife. "My best friend and my partner through it all. None of this journey called life would have been the same without you."View this post on Instagram"There will be moments in life where people tell you you're too small, too different, or just simply not enough," Wilson said in his message directed at his children. "Don't let others cast their fears of greatness upon you. Keep your faith strong, keep your heart strong. Wake up every day believing you can do great things."He concluded the video by also thanking his mother for her "unconditional love" and his siblings Harry and Anna for their "unwavering support," before confirming the CBS deal."As I enter this next chapter with CBS Sports and The NFL Today, I'm so blessed to continue doing what I love most, being around the greatest game in the world," Wilson said.Follow your favorite athletes on and off the field with PEOPLE's free sports newsletter — sign up now!Wilson and Ciara, his wife of nearly 10 years, have three kids together: daughter Sienna Princess, 9, son Win Harrison, 5, and daughter Amora Princess, 2. Ciara also shares son Future Zahir, 11, with her ex, rapper Future."I think how my kids inspire me, it's just their passion and love every day,” Wilson told PEOPLE in September 2025. “I get to do what I love to do — that's play football and do my day job, and try to do it really, really well."The Seahawks drafted Wilson in 2012 in the third round and he found instant success. Just two years later, he led the franchise to its first-ever Super Bowl win in February 2014. Wilson remained with the Seahawks until 2021, and had stints with the Denver Broncos, Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants before retiring.Read the original article on People

The New World screwworm was found in a calf in South Texas, the Agriculture Department said, the first case in the country since the 1960s.

At the Seattle Seahawks’ 5th of 6 OTA Offseason Workouts today, Rasheed Shaheed stole the show with multiple explosive plays and was the highlight of the practice.Brian Nemhauser also known as @hawkblogger went live on X and described a 40-yard touchdown he caught from Sam Darnold in detail and shared why he believes their connection will strengthen in 2026.Shaheed burned down the sideline, and Jake Bobo apparently said “bye bye” as the play developed and it became clear he would be wide open. He was guarded by Nehemiah Pritchett, who already faces enough pressure with the bevy of cornerback additions the Seahawks made through the draft and free agency. Shaheed also caught a crossing route that Nemhauser described as being just as dangerous a threat to score as his fade routes. Nemhauser spoke excitedly of Shaheed’s opportunity to have a full offseason with the team and build rapport with Sam Darnold from the ground up, rather than forming it on the fly after being acquired midseason.Shaheed is only 27 and has had an impressive 14.7 yards per route run to this point in his NFL career. He has four years of experience and a Super Bowl ring now, and might be able to reach a higher ceiling than most analyzing his future with the Seahawks’ originally thought. He’s a great route runner without a clear weakness other than measurable testing, which he’s put behind him with moments and film on the biggest stages. He was paid like a number two receiver ought to be and will be expected to take the load off Jaxon Smith-Njigba as a respected opposite threat.This article originally appeared on Seahawks Wire: Seahawks OTAs: WR Rashid Shaheed shines on Day 5

What time is the Women's College World Series tonight? TV schedule, channel to watch Texas vs. Texas Tech softball originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.For the second year in a row, Texas and Texas Tech will face off in the Women's College World Series finals.The Longhorns took the best-of-three series last year to win their first national title in their eighth WCWS appearance. Now they're looking for the repeat as they play at the final stage for the fourth time in five years. Everything about the Oklahoma City experience was new for Texas Tech a year ago as the Red Raiders made their first trip to the WCWS. They know the drill this time, and ace pitcher NiJaree Canady will try to carry her team one step further. Can the Longhorns do it again or will the Red Raiders win their first NCAA softball trophy? Here's when to tune in and watch the finals. LIVE:Follow Texas vs. Texas Tech updates from WCWS Game 1What time is the Women's College World Series tonight? Date: Wednesday, June 3Time: 8 p.m. ET | 7 p.m. CTThe best-of-three series between the Longhorns and Red Raiders will get started at 8 p.m. ET on Wednesday. The game will be played at OGE Energy Field at Devon Park in Oklahoma City.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.)Women's College World Series finals schedule, scores 2026DateGameTime (ET)WatchWed., June 3Game 1: Texas 7, Texas Tech 3——Thu., 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

Landin Bonnell woke up Wednesday, June 3, and questioned whether he should make his scheduled start for Novi Detroit Catholic Central against Northville in the Division 1 regional semifinal.During practice the day before, he'd been rifling through his bag in the bullpen when a wild pitch struck him in the head. The 6-foot, 190-pound senior pitcher – a Kalamazoo College commit – cracked a tooth and had to immediately undergo an emergency dental procedure.“I was questioning what would be the best thing for me to do for the team,” said Bonnell, sporting a bruise above his right eye. “I just knew that today, this was my start and I had been planning on it since Saturday. I just told my coach that I’d be good to go and ready to make the start.”That he was: Bonnell struck out six over 93 pitches, lasting 5⅓ innings before Dominic Recchione relieved him, as the Shamrocks won, 5-3.CREAM OF THE CROP: Garden City's Ethan Armstrong named Michigan Gatorade Player of YearBonnell allowed six hits, walked one and surrendered just one earned run, a solo homer by Northville's Nate Van Dis, as the Shamrocks (25-12) advanced to their first regional final since 2021. They'll face Mason on Saturday (10 a.m.) at Northville High School with a trophy and spot in the state quarterfinal on the line later that day.“How about Landin Bonnell taking a ball to the head yesterday, getting emergency root canal surgery and coming in this morning to say he wanted the ball?” CC coach Ryan Rogowski said. “What a performance by that young man and for our team to finish. We talk a lot about our fifth, sixth and seventh innings being our championship innings, just like the third period in wrestling. We just want them to be mentally tough and ready to go, and they responded through adversity today, and we love it.”Bonnell's performance less than 24 hours after emergency surgery wasn't the only adversity CC had to overcome.Simply put, the Mustangs (12-18) wouldn't go away, even after the Shamrocks built a 5-0 lead through four innings.After Van Dis' homer, Northville added two runs in the sixth. Justin Klepp drove in Tommy Maxwell on a fly ball to right field, and Liam Frist singled home Klepp one batter later.Northville's rally continued in the seventh despite two outs. Mack Hart reached first on a dropped third strike, and Vito Miksitz followed with a single.With the tying run at the plate, right fielder Gavin Swinea made a tough catch while staring into the sun to end the game.“We had a chance to put them away, but Northville kept grinding away, kept playing baseball,” Rogowski said. “But I’m proud of my guys for not giving up. A few years ago, we give this game away. But with 16 seniors, this wound up as something special.”Two of those seniors came through after Bonnell headed to the dugout.Recchione forced a lineout to second baseman Kyle Davis, who had already turned a double play earlier in the game, and then struck out Van Dis to escape a jam in the sixth.Micky Laser closed out the seventh, striking out one batter while forcing a flyout and groundout.While things got tricky during Northville's rally, the Shamrocks relied on veteran catcher (and Saginaw Valley State signee) Cam Swearingen to guide them through each at-bat.“The biggest thing for me is keeping them confident in themselves because, as you can tell from today, funny things can happen,” Swearingen said. “The sun is a factor and errors can happen just like that. I just have to keep my guys motivated and confident because we believe we’re the best team in the state. Our keyword there was to just finish.”Swearingen doubled home Bennett Thompson for CC's final run in the fourth. He also scored one of the Shamrocks' three runs in the first.Nick Garnick doubled in Dylan Fairchild. Luke Fairchild later singled, and an error allowed Garnick and Swearingen to score.Thompson singled home Davis for what proved to be the winning run in the second.Northville's Liam Friest did most of the heavy lifting after relieving Max Samhat. He pitched six innings, struck out two, allowed five hits and surrendered just one earned run. He also doubled, while Tyler Baranick went 2-for-4 with a double.Now CC's attention turns to this weekend. The winner of its quarterfinal the past three seasons has gone on to win the state championship. It was Novi in 2023, followed by Northville in 2024 and Hartland last spring.CC ended the KLAA West's hold on championship trophies. But Rogowski had nothing but respect for his crosstown rivals.“This wasn’t revenge or anything,” Rogowski said. “I talked with [coach] Ric Green, who I have a ton of respect for at Novi, and with Northville, which I have a ton of respect for. Those two teams have made us who we are by knocking us out the last couple of years, taking our dreams away. But they made us tougher and made us realize what we have to do to get where we want to go.”Even if it means bouncing back a day after emergency surgery. The Shamrocks are ready to fight through adversity and finish what they started this postseason.Brandon Folsom covers high school sports in metro Detroit for Hometown Life and the Detroit Free Press. Follow him on his new X.com account at @folsomwrites.This article originally appeared on Hometownlife.com: MHSAA baseball: Novi Detroit Catholic Central takes regional title

Payne's follower count on Instagram ballooned from 4,000 last week to nearly 4.9 million (Megan Briggs)New Zealand footballer Tim Payne met the influencer behind his stunning viral fame on Wednesday, presenting him with a team shirt after gaining almost five million Instagram followers in a week.Argentine social media giant Valen Scarsini, known as "El Scarso", last week asked his fans to boost unheralded Payne's following, calling him the "least known" player at the World Cup.It kicked off an online explosion of interest with Payne going from 4,000 followers to 4.9 million in a few days.The two met for the first time at New Zealand's training camp in Florida, with Payne thanking Scarsini for his support."It's obviously good for myself and New Zealand football too," Payne said."It puts a light on us which is a positive thing but at the same time, for me, I don't change."I'm still the person I am, so I just keep trying to do what I do, which is play football and focus on trying to perform for my country."Scarsini was asked, "Why me man?" by the defender who plays for Wellington Phoenix."Fly to Argentina!" Scarsini told him.Payne's Instagram account now has more followers than the rugby-obsessed country's All Blacks team, who have a mere 2.8 million.Scarsini travelled to Florida to watch Payne and New Zealand in a pre-World Cup friendly at Inter Miami's stadium on Tuesday, where they were beaten 4-0 by fellow World Cup qualifiers Haiti.New Zealand play England on Saturday in their final friendly before the World Cup begins.They will face Iran, Egypt and Belgium in World Cup Group G.bes/oho/dh

The 2027 NFL Draft is being heralded as one of the best of this generation. You are going to see plus players be taken late on day two and early into day three. Nearly every position is littered with top talent, but EDGE is rich in depth after a star-studded top two prospects. One of the more intriguing prospects here is Kansas State transfer Wendell Gregory. Gregory is primed for a bigger role in 2026 and could elevate this revamped defense.Height: 6'3"Weight: 255 lbsRecruiting rank: Four-star recruit, no. 17 EDGE nationally in 2024Hometown: Marietta, GeorgiaGames watched: Arizona, Cincinnati, OregonWendell Gregory was a shining star on an Oklahoma State defense last year that was among the worst in the country. Gregory has speed for days and uses a near-elite first step to get off the line with blazing acceleration. He has good knee bend, with room to grow, and dips his hips to really sink into his blocker for leverage. Motor runs hot without a doubt, as you often see him full speed to a play on the other side of the field. Pursuit and tackling ability are certainly not in question. His pass-rush move set does need some growth. I believe a player like Gregory would greatly benefit from developing a spin move after the first engagement. He has the fluidity to add this easily and become a major disruptor. I would also be very intrigued to see him drop into coverage a tick more and see how he plays in zone coverage. He has the IQ and athleticism to roam, but we did not see this much last season.This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: 2027 NFL Draft Summer Report on Oklahoma State's Wendell Gregory

Columbus Clippers 9, Omaha Storm Chasers 8Clippers improve to 32-25The Columbus Clipper blasted off for nine runs on 11 hits and 10 walks Tuesday.Leading the charge offensively was Juan Brito, who went 3-for-4 with a walk and three runs scored.Bo Naylor also had a huge game, going 1-for-2 with a three-run home run, three walks and a stolen base. Angel Genao went 2-for-5 and slugged his fourth home run as well.Angel Genao goes OPPO 🌮 pic.twitter.com/xUz5bKxiDq— GuardsInsider (@GuardsInsider) June 3, 2026Cooper Ingle doubled and walked while Nolan Jones went 2-for-5 with a double, George Valera went 1-for-4 with a walk and a stolen base and C.J. Kayfus walked three times.Daniel Espino served as the opener in this game and he was tagged for two runs on one hit and one walk with two strikeouts in 1.0 innings. Unfortunately, that one hit was a two-run home run. Rorik Maltrud followed with four runs allowed on eight hits in 4.0 innings while striking out seven and walking two.Tommy Mace and Jack Leftwich both finished off the game with 2.0 innings apiece while both allowing one run.Akron RubberDucks 12, Bowie Baysox 15RubberDucks fall to 28-24Akron’s offense did its damndest, scoring 12 runs on 14 hits, but poor pitching and defense betrayed it. Jaison Chourio had one of the best games of his career, going 3-for-5 with two home runs and five runs batted in.And that's a multi-homer game for Jaison Chourio!Moments after slugging his first Double-A homer, he goes yard again for the @AkronRubberDuck 🦆Chourio is now 2-for-4 with 2 homers and 5 RBI in tonight's game. pic.twitter.com/hIzkQ2cs2Q— GuardsInsider (@GuardsInsider) June 3, 2026Nick Mitchell reached base safely three times, going 2-for-4 with a walk while Jacob Cozart went 2-for-4 with a home run and Wuilfredo Antunez also homered. In his Double-A debut, Luke Hill went 2-for-5 with a run scored, although he committed two errors at second base. Alex Mooney also went 2-for-5. Starting pitcher Khal Stephen had a rough day, allowing eight runs (five earned) on 10 hits in 4.2 innings pitched. He struck out just one batter and didn’t walk any. Carter Rustad followed by allowing six more runs, although none of them were earned in 2.0 innings. Lake County Captains 5, Fort Wayne TinCaps 6Captains fall to 5-6Nolan Schubart had a strong performance, going 2-for-4 with his 10th home run of the season.Tommy Hawke had the other multi-hit game, going 2-for-4 with a stolen base.Bennet Thompson homered as well, while Dean Curley went 1-for-3 with a walk. No one else reached base safely twice or had an extra base hit.Starting pitcher Franklin Gomez allowed four runs (three earned) on six hits with six strikeouts and two walks in 5.0 innings. Logan McGuire allowed another run in 1.1 innings while Cam Schuelke allowed one run with the game tied in the bottom of the ninth inning to take the loss, although he had pitched 2.1 innings before that. Hill City Howlers 2, Fredericksburg Nationals 3Howlers fall to 25-27Juneiker Caceres and Ty Howard both went 2-for-4 with a double while Johan Rodriguez went 1-for-3 with a home run and a walk. This team needs to get some of its young injured talent back in action. Gabriel Rodriguez should hopefully be back soon.Starting pitcher Ryan DeSanto, a 12th round pick out of Penn State, had a strong performance. He allowed one run on one hit with seven strikeouts in 4.0 innings, although he did walk five.Miguel Flores added 3.2 scoreless frames with four strikeouts and Luke Fernandez unfortunately couldn’t hold the lead, allowing two runs in the bottom of the ninth inning to let the Nationals walk off.ACL Guardians 13, ACL Cubs 6Guardians improve to 15-9Alejandro Blasco is making one heck of a first impression. In his 2026 debut, the 19-year-old Venezuelan prospect went 2-for-2 with two doubles and a walk on May 30. On Tuesday, he went 2-for-2 with a home run, a double and a walk. His OPS through two games is a ridiculous 3.500. Not bad for someone who spent two season in the DSL already.A rehabbing Gabriel Rodriguez went 1-for-3 with two walks. A rehabbing Welbyn Francisca went 1-for-4 with two walks and a stolen base.Gustavo Baptista went 2-for-4 with a double and two stolen bases, Angel Abreu went 3-for-5 with a double, Randy Martinez went 1-for-2 with two walks and a stolen base and Estivel Morillo went 2-for-5 with a double. A rehabbing Yorman Gomez tossed 2.0 shutout innings. He struck out four, walked one and allowed two hits. Evan Chrest added a perfect inning with two strikeouts.

NEW YORK (AP) — Toronto Tempo rookie guard Kiki Rice left Wednesday night’s loss to the New York Liberty after getting injured in the final two minutes of the game.With 1:33 left, Rice fell to the court when her shot was blocked and was holding her left ankle before she got up and hopped to the locker room.Toronto coach Sandy Brondello said after the game that there was no immediate update on Rice's condition. Rice had nine points and five rebounds before she got hurt. Coming into the game, the No. 6 pick in the draft was averaging 13.1 points and 4.7 rebounds on the season.“She’s a tough kid, but, yeah, it’s unfortunate,” Brondello said.Rice helped UCLA win its first NCAA national championship two months ago before coming to Toronto in the WNBA draft.___AP WNBA: https://apnews.com/hub/wnba-basketball

Chicago Bears‘ head coach Ben Johnson had an extremely successful first season with the Chicago Bears as their head coach. For the first time since 2018 the Bears took home the NFC North crown and even won a playoff game against their hated rivals in the Green Bay Packers. While their season would come to an end in the divisional round, the future certainly seems bright in Chicago.However, none of that mattered when Johnson was up at the podium during an interview and he felt the need to call out one reporter.Also Read: Shedeur Sanders’ Dad Deion To Meet With Browns HC About Starting Job (Breaking News)May 8, 2026; Lake Forest, IL, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson addresses the media at Halas Hall before Rookie Minicamp. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn ImagesChicago Bears’ HC Ben Johnson Snaps At ReporterIn Wednesday’s press conference, the coach became fatigued when the phone of a reporter repeatedly rang. It was clear that he was upset about the situation and made a direct comment about it.Wild: Ben Johnson went OFF on a reporter during his press conference after a reporter’s phone repeatedly interrupted him at the podium.“Does somebody want to take the phone away so I’m not interrupted again.”Ben is all business this season 😤 pic.twitter.com/djhTtkHWpP— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) June 3, 2026Fans went off on Johnson after this video surfaced:He seems pleasant. Give it a few weeks and he will be yelling at reporters for slouching.Way too early for this guy to be so arrogant. He hasn’t accomplished anything. MSM loves arrogant dickheads. He qualifies as that at Least.This guy is such a tool. Clearly someone forgot there phone, and the person who forgot it was calling it to try and hear it. Total loser. You are not that guy, Ben. Not even 5”10 you can’t command a room with that build.Such a prick. This guy hasn’t earned the right to act like thatCoaches vs phone interruptions is the most realistic “boss fight” in sports media today.During the 2026 NFL season, the Chicago Bears will begin their campaign on the road against the Carolina Panthers on September 13. In the first month of the season, the Bears play three of their first four games at Soldier Field, including a primetime matchup against the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football in Week 3.It will be important for Chicago to get off to a hot start in 2026 if they want to defend their NFC North title. From the sounds of it, Ben Johnson has let up on his intensity whatsoever.Related Reading:Breaking News: Cowboys Sign 24-Year-Old Wide Receiver In Shocking Twist (Report)“He’s Wanted Right Now” Superstar Has Arrest Warrant Issued (Breaking News)“It’s Official” Former NFL Veteran Quarterback Converts To Sports Agent (Breaking News)“What Happened To His Eye??” Eagles’ Cooper DeJean Draws Concern During Interview Breaking: 10x Pro Bowl NFL Quarterback Retires From The League“Why?” Bears’ QB Caleb Williams Shows Nail Polish On Madden 27 Cover (Look)The post “Such A Prick” Bears’ HC Ben Johnson Blows At Reporter During Interview (Video) appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Teagan Kavan pitched a complete-game three-hitter, Katie Stewart hit her fourth home run in as many games, and Texas opened the Women's College World Series championship round with a 7-3 victory over Texas Tech on Wednesday night.The No. 2 seed Longhorns (52-12) can wrap up their second consecutive national championship with a victory in Game 2 on Thursday night.Eleventh-seeded Texas Tech (61-9) took a 1-0 lead on a one-out solo home run by Mihyia Davis in the first inning.The lead didn't last long as Texas scored five runs in the bottom of the first. Stewart’s two-run homer that cleared the bleachers in center field gave Texas a 2-1 lead. It was her seventh career home run in the World Series, including one in each of the past four games. The Longhorns tacked on three runs on a run-scoring infield single by Kaiah Altmeyer and a two-run triple by Ashton Maloney.Kavan cruised into the fifth, not allowing another hit until Mia Williams went deep to straightaway center field for her 27th home run of the season, a two-run blast that made it 6-3.Kavan (29-6), the WCWS most outstanding player in the Longhorns' run to the 2025 championship, finished with six strikeouts, two walks and a hit batter.Kaitlyn Terry (24-3) allowed four runs in 1 1/3 innings.Texas Tech coach Gerry Glasco took NiJaree Canady, the two-time national pitcher of the year, out of the game after she faced six batters in relief in the first and second innings. She is the Red Raiders' presumptive starter in Game 2.Texas defeated Texas Tech in three games in the 2025 championship round. This is the first championship rematch since UCLA defeated California in 2003 and '04, the last two title games before the championship series was implemented. ___AP college sports: https://apnews.com/hub/college-sports

Titans-Colts trade pitch sees Tennessee fleece AFC South rival for $42 million award-winning RB originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.As many know, intra-division trades are extremely rare, especially those involving high-profile talent. However, several have occurred in NFL history, including Donovan McNabb’s trade from the Philadelphia Eagles to the Washington Commanders in 2010 (NFC East) and Drew Bledsoe’s trade from the New England Patriots to the Buffalo Bills in 2002 (AFC East). Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay floated the fascinating idea of the Tennessee Titans and Indianapolis Colts pulling off an intra-division trade of their own this summer. Specifically, Kay crafted a trade proposal that would see Tennessee fleece their AFC South rival by landing their award-winning running back while surrendering only one second-round pick and zero first-round picks (2027 second- and third-round picks and a 2028 third-round pick).“The Indianapolis Colts employ one of the NFL's top talents in Jonathan Taylor, but the superstar running back could provide more value to the organization as a trade chip than on the field at this juncture of his career,” Kay wrote Wednesday.“With Taylor set to be a free agent next offseason, the Colts could get ahead of a potential departure by dealing him for draft capital. There are plenty of hopeful contenders with a hole in the backfield that would love to add a star like Taylor into the mix, a list of suitors that could be headlined by the Tennessee Titans.”“Tennessee is hoping to emerge from a lengthy rebuilding period in Year 2 of the Cam Ward era. With new regime at the reins, acquiring a piece like Taylor could push this offense over the top and into the playoffs. Tennessee innately understands just how good Taylor is, having given up more rushing touchdowns (nine) to him than any other team.”Taylor is one of the premier RBs in the NFL, and his track record proves that. 7.598 yards, 69 touchdowns, three Pro Bowl nods, one first-team All-Pro selection, two NFL rushing titles, and a 2021 Bert Bell award victory aren’t achievements to scoff at. Once the former second-round pick identifies open holes and reaches the second level of defenses, it’s challenging for defenders to match his top-end speed and prevent him from getting deep into their territory. Why would the Colts ever consider trading their prized running back to a franchise they match up with twice a year in the AFC South? The short answer is they wouldn’t, making Kay’s trade idea merely a fun exercise rather than a reasonable offseason concept.More NFL: Bills-Vikings massive trade pitch sees Buffalo break bank to acquire generational $140 million WRBears named landing spot for $123 million 115-sack Steelers star LBEagles named top landing spot for former Cowboys $21 million starter

A challenging art market is forcing even an established player to contract.

A fan is on the court!In the fourth quarter of Game 1 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs, a young man ran onto the court and pulled his phone out to take a selfie. Security quickly swooped in and escorted the fan off the court in San Antonio.Victor Wembanyama, who the fan was seemingly trying to get in the selfie, was standing next to Mitchell Robinson. The Spurs center laughed while the Knicks big man looked confused.A fan runs on the floor during a live game to take a selfie with Victor Wembanyama (with a replay).The refs call a jump ball. pic.twitter.com/Lw9clKrbVm— MrBuckBuck (@MrBuckBuckNBA) June 4, 2026The Knicks were up 92-86 with 6:34 on the clock at the time of the incident. Play eventually continued with a jump ball.The Knicks are playing in their first Finals since 1999. The series, which marks Wembanyama's debut in the Finals, is a rematch of that championship.This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Fan on floor stops play in Knicks-Spurs NBA Finals Game 1

SAN ANTONIO (AP) — A fan ran onto the court midway through the fourth quarter of Game 1 of the NBA Finals, appearing to try to take a selfie next to San Antonio star Victor Wembanyama.The fan came from the sideline opposite the team benches, starting from behind the play and running into San Antonio's offensive end. The person was quickly pulled from the court by two security guards and it did not appear the person made any contact with Wembanyama or any New York players.Play was stopped for about a minute before the game resumed with a jump ball. The fan was taken out of the court area through a baseline tunnel.___AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba

After posting sectional semifinal victories on Wednesday, June 3, seven Peoria-area baseball teams have moved onto the Sweet Sixteen of the Illinois High School Association postseason.In Class 1A, Tremont, Monmouth United and Putnam County will play in the Sweet Sixteen. Brimfield/Elmwood meets Illini West in Class 2A. Mid-Illini Conference foes East Peoria and Dunlap will square off for a Class 3A Elite Eight berth.IHSA baseball: 10 Peoria-area teams headed to sectionals in IHSA baseball state tournamentHere is what's facing that group of seven teams as they head into sectional title games on Saturday, June 6:CLASS 1ATremontHow they won: Tremont used 12 hits in a 7-1 win over Athens at the Bloomington Sectional semifinal. The Turks, who are winners of 21 in a row dating back to April 13, now have a chance to win a sectional championship for the first time since 2012. Valparaiso signee Andrew Dawson twirled a gem. The senior posted 12 strikeouts, one walk and three hits on 101 pitches in a complete game. Four runs in the bottom of the first was all Tremont needed. Griffin Meeker (3-for-3) led the game with a triple, then scored when Justin Musselman ripped a three-bagger of his own. Dawson's RBI-sacrifice fly and a two-run home run by Hunter Smith (2-for-3) made it 4-0. Meeker's second triple scored two more in fourth.What's next: Tremont (35-2) vs. Lexington (23-11), 11 a.m. Saturday, June 6 in the Bloomington Sectional final.Monmouth UnitedHow they won: The Red Storm has a chance to win the program's first-ever sectional title following a 5-1 win over Mt. Sterling Brown County (20-7-2) in the Camp Point Central Sectional semifinals. United struck for a pair of runs in the third, breaking a 1-1 tie. An RBI groundout from Nolan Jenks along with Collin Leary's two-out, run-scoring single put the Red Storm ahead for good. Leary added his second RBI off a fielder's choice in the fifth followed by Chance Stewart (3-for-4, double) setting the final score with his sixth-inning RBI single. Ian Leffler and Egan Marshall each added two hits for the Red Storm, who recorded nine in the game. Aiden Martin went the distance in the win, striking out seven, walking two and giving up four hits in 7.0 innings.What's next: Monmouth United (30-5-2) vs. Jacksonville Routt (22-12), 11 a.m. Saturday, June 6 in the Camp Point Central Sectional final.Putnam CountyHow they won: Putnam County used a potent offense to reach the Sweet Sixteen, looking to match the success from a 2013 Class 1A state runner-up finish. The host Panthers run-ruled Newark 11-1 in five innings at the Granville Sectional semifinal. Back-to-back four-run innings in the third and fourth lifted PC to a nine-run advantage. Johnathon Stunkel's two-run homer mixed with a two-run scoring triple by Wyatt Zellers put Putnam County ahead 6-0 in the third. A wild pitch, a two-run single from Peyton Barto (3-for-3, three RBIs) and an error accounted for the four-run fourth. Stunkel and Rudy Villagomez combined on a four-hitter, getting seven total strikeouts and no walks on just 71 pitches. PC has outscored its playoffs opponents, 24-4.What's next: Putnam County (23-11) vs. Fulton (19-8), 11 a.m. Saturday, June 6 in the Granville Sectional final.CLASS 2ABrimfield/ElmwoodHow they won: Brimfield/Elmwood heads to the Sweet Sixteen following a 7-6, eight-inning win over Taylor Ridge Rockridge in the Chillicothe Sectional semifinal. In the bottom of the eight, the Indians picked up the walk-off victory thanks to Dan Fagerburg (2-for-4). His single to center scored Griffin Hougham (2-for-4), who kept the game alive with a two-out single. B/E had jumped ahead 6-0 through four innings, getting five runs in the bottom of the third. Illinois State signee Kaeden Schatsiek got the scoring started with an RBI groundout followed by run-scoring hits from Noah Malone and Hougham along with Connor Doe (2-for-4) scoring on a wild pitch. But Rockridge (29-8) scored five runs in the sixth, then tied the game in the seventh.What's next: Brimfield/Elmwood (31-5) vs. Illini West (28-7), 1 p.m. Saturday, June 6 in the Chillicothe Sectional final.Illini WestHow they won: Illini West finds itself one win away from the program's second-ever sectional title and first since 2015. The Chargers got an all-around effort from Wesley Robertson in a 5-1 win over Monmouth-Roseville at the Chillicothe Sectional semifinal. Robertson tossed a four-hit gem, striking out 10 and walking two off 96 pitches for the complete-game victory. His bat helped supply some much-needed offense. In the bottom of the first, his sacrifice fly to center scored Eli Bisby for a 1-0 lead. An inning later, Robertson stepped to the plate with the bases loaded and two outs. He roped a double to left field to send home three for a four-run advantage. From there, he allowed just four baserunners.What's next: Illini West (28-7) vs. Brimfield/Elmwood (31-5), 1 p.m. Saturday, June 6 in the Chillicothe Sectional final.CLASS 3AEast PeoriaHow they won: East Peoria beat Mid-Illini Conference foe Metamora 1-0 in the Washington Sectional semifinal. The Raiders survived a bases-loaded seventh inning for a shot to win the program's first sectional title since 1974. EP starter Dalton Oakman induced a game-ending double play to get out of the jam. The lefty tossed the complete-game shutout with three strikeouts and two walks on 97 pitches. His run support came in the form of an RBI single by Eli Martin, scoring Jackson Ahrens, who led off the bottom of the first with a double. Metamora (26-9) left 11 runners on base. Mason Sauder went 2-for-4 for the Redbirds. Stephen Petri took the loss with eight strikeouts and two walks.What's next: East Peoria (25-13) vs. Dunlap (30-7), 11 a.m. Saturday, June 6 in the Washington Sectional final.DunlapHow they won: The Eagles led early before scoring five runs over the last two innings for a Sweet Sixteen appearance. Dunlap used 16 hits to beat Joliet Catholic Academy 11-7 in the Washington Sectional semifinal. In the first three innings, Dunlap had jumped ahead 5-0, then 6-5 before JCA tied the game in the bottom of the fifth. However, the Eagles brought the bats in the sixth with four hits, highlighted by a two-run single from Bradley commit Eli Michanicou as well as a run-scoring base hit by Isaac Babbs. The seventh inning was nearly the same as Dunlap again pounded out four hits for two runs. JCA made it interesting in the bottom of the seventh, but Dunlap shut the door when Brett Alkire (four RBIs) induced a line out to leave the bases loaded.What's next: Dunlap (30-7) vs. East Peoria (25-13), 11 a.m. Saturday, June 6 in the Washington Sectional final.Adam Duvall is a Journal Star sports reporter. Email him at aduvall@pjstar.com. Follow him on Twitter @AdamDuvall.This article originally appeared on Journal Star: IHSA baseball: 2026 sectionals scores for Peoria-area schools

Knicks vs Spurs box score: Full stats from NBA Finals Game 1 originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The wait is finally over. The NBA Finals begin tonight. This is the first NBA Finals appearance for the San Antonio Spurs since 2014. The Spurs have been in four NBA Finals since 1999 (2003, 2005, 2007, 2014). This marks the first NBA Finals appearance since 1999. In the lockout shortened 1998-99 season the Spurs defeated the Knicks in five games for the Spurs first NBA title. The journey for the Knicks and their fans has been a different story. In the time that's passed since 1999, the Spurs have enjoyed five titles while the Knicks have been much less effective. Following the 1999 season, the Knicks have only made two conference finals. The 2000 season and this year. There will be several storylines within these NBA Finals. Starting with Game 1, the biggest question will be is this a return to glory for the Knicks or the coronation of Victor Wembanyama as the face of the league? More: Knicks vs. Spurs live score, updates, highlights from 2026 NBA Finals Game 1Knicks vs Spurs NBA Finals Game 1 Box ScoreNew York KnicksStartersMinPtsFG3PTFTRebAstStlBlkM. BridgesSF25:5673-60-01-22220J. BrunsonPG32:592510-271-84-43200O. AnunobyPF27:03135-103-50-02011J. HartSG22:4331-50-31-111631K. TownsC30:47187-150-24-412401BenchMinPtsFG3PTFTRebAstStlBlkL. ShametSG30:59135-83-50-01000M. McBridePG19:2862-72-60-01401M. RobinsonC13:0921-20-00-16000J. AlvaradoPG10:5773-61-30-04110J. ClarksonSG5:3900-10-10-01000J. SochanPF000-00-00-00000P. DadietSG000-00-00-00000T. KolekPG000-00-00-00000A. HukportiC000-00-00-00000M. DiawaraSF000-00-00-00000Team Totals9437-8710-3310-12431974San Antonio SpursStartersMinPtsFG3PTFTRebAstStlBlkD. FoxPG33:5173-120-41-24510S. CastlePG30:22177-161-52-28300D. VassellSG31:5794-101-50-08300J. ChampagnieSF27:09155-105-90-09101V. WembanyamaC33:44215-182-89-1010213BenchMinPtsFG3PTFTRebAstStlBlkD. HarperSG27:31166-101-43-38110H. BarnesPF12:0800-20-20-12100L. KornetC10:1200-00-00-01010K. JohnsonSF8:2031-41-20-00000C. BryantPF4:2610-10-11-20000B. BiyomboC000-00-00-00000K. OlynykC000-00-00-00000M. PlumleeC000-00-00-00000J. McLaughlinPG000-00-00-00000L. Waters IIISG000-00-00-00000Team Totals8931-8311-4016-20501644WATCH:Stream Spurs vs Knicks Game 1 with PeacockMore NBA Playoff news:San Antonio has best NBA Playoff win since 198310,170 days: Spurs vs. Thunder Western Conference Finals is a generational NBA Playoff seriesSpurs vs. Thunder: 2026 NBA Western Conference Finals schedule announcedFull stats from NBA Playoffs Western Conference Finals Game 1Spurs vs. Thunder final score, results: Victor Wembanyama goes off with 41 points, 24 rebounds in 2OT thriller