Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty ImagesKarl-Anthony Towns did not just give the Knicks a Game 1 double-double, he gave their NBA Finals opener a deeply personal meaning.New York beat San Antonio 105-95 at Frost Bank Center, with Towns producing 18 points and 12 rebounds in his first NBA Finals game.The numbers mattered, but the emotion after the win mattered more. Towns said the calm he felt all day reminded him of the person who helped shape his whole basketball life.Photo by Ryan Sirius Sun/Getty ImagesKarl-Anthony Towns’ mother tribute defines Knicks Finals debutSpeaking to USA Today, Towns connected his Game 1 poise to Jacqueline Cruz-Towns, his late mother, who died in 2020 from COVID-19 complications.“I don’t know what it was, but I just felt a calm and a peace that had to be coming from the woman above,” Towns said.He described feeling like a kid again before a weekend AAU game, not a veteran big man stepping into the NBA Finals for the first time. That detail is what made the moment land.Towns also said he felt as if he could see her in the stands. For a player who has spoken openly about grief, that was not a throwaway line, it was the emotional center of the night.Knicks needed Towns against Victor WembanyamaThe matchup itself was not easy. Towns had to deal with Victor Wembanyama, who finished with 26 points and 12 rebounds but struggled with efficiency as New York finished stronger.Towns gave the Knicks balance next to Jalen Brunson’s scoring punch. His rebounding, floor spacing and physical presence helped New York recover from a double-digit deficit.The Knicks closed with the kind of composure teams need in June. Towns was not the loudest star, but he was one of the reasons New York looked ready for the stage.The Knicks took Game 1, but Towns left with something larger than a series lead. He left with the feeling that his mother was still part of the biggest night of his career.Read more:Dave Portnoy demands cruel punishment for fan who ran on court during Spurs vs. Knicks NBA Finals matchupKarl-Anthony Towns did in one game what Chet Holmgren failed to do in seven games vs. Victor WembanyamaVictor Wembanyama drops brutal assessment of his Game 1 performance vs. New York Knicks

The Green Bay Packers made a major splash by acquiring Micah Parsons from the Dallas Cowboys ahead of the 2025 season, a move that was expected to strengthen their chances of competing atop the NFC North. Those plans took a significant hit late in the year when Parsons suffered a torn ACL in December, ending his season and preventing him from suiting up in Green Bay’s playoff loss to the Chicago Bears.Despite the injury-shortened campaign, Parsons made a significant impact during his first season in Green Bay. Across 14 appearances, the star pass rusher recorded 41 total tackles, including 19 solo stops, while adding 12.5 sacks and two forced fumbles.Micah Parsons on Lukas Van Ness: “I think by the end of this season, if Luke stays healthy, I think he’ll probably be the (fan) favorite.”Over you?“I’m already a favorite, but I definitely think I’m going to have my hands full with Luke on who’s going to be the best.” pic.twitter.com/asWBOVcN2q— Matt Schneidman (@mattschneidman) June 3, 2026While Parsons is not expected to return until at least mid October as he continues recovering from his ACL injury, the Packers star has already identified who he believes could be next in line for a breakout season. Parsons recently pointed to teammate Lukas Van Ness, suggesting the young pass rusher has flown under the radar and deserves far more attention than he has received.Micah Parsons on Luke Van Ness with the Green Bay PackersDec 14, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive end Micah Parsons (1) warms up before a game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images“Luke is someone people sleep on the most, and I don’t know why,” Parsons remarked via Packers beat reporter Matt Schneidman.“I think by the end of the season, if Luke stays healthy… he’ll probably be the [fan] favorite. That’s how much confidence I have in him.”When asked whether Van Ness could eventually surpass him as a fan favorite among Packers supporters, Parsons did not seem concerned. Instead, he offered a lighthearted response, showing support for his teammate while embracing the friendly nature of the question.Green Bay Packers defensive end Lukas Van Ness (90) Celebrates after sacking Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Flacco (16) on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis.Green Bay defeated Cincinnati 27-18.Wm. Glasheen USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin“I’m already a favorite, but I definitely think I’m going to have my hands full with Luke on who’s going to be the best,” the Packers star edge rusher continued.Since entering the league as the 13th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Van Ness has steadily built a productive résumé with the Packers. Through his first three seasons, he has recorded 84 tackles, 8.5 sacks, 17 tackles for loss, 23 quarterback hits, 34 pressures, and one forced fumble, showing flashes of the disruptive potential that made him a first round selection.

Tennessee redshirt junior defensive lineman Jordan Norman enters his first season at Tennessee in 2026. He transferred to the Vols in January and has two years of eligibility remaining.The 6-foot-4, 270-pound defensive lineman played one season at Tulane in 2025. He appeared in 14 games, recording 28 tackles, eight tackles for a loss and six sacks.Norman transferred to the Green Wave after playing at South Alabama from 2023-24. He appeared in 16 games for the Jaguars and totaled 28 tackles, 5.5 tackles for a loss, four sacks and two pass deflections.During his 30-game career, Norman has recorded 56 tackles, 13.5 tackles for a loss, 10 sacks and two pass deflections. He has also played 861 defensive snaps.Norman is from Hoover High School in Hoover, Alabama.Tennessee will kick off its 2026 football season Sept. 5 versus Furman at Neyland Stadium. The season opener is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. EDT (SEC Network+).More: 2026 Tennessee football preview: Nathan RobinsonFollow Vols Wire on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).This article originally appeared on Vols Wire: Defensive lineman Jordan Norman 2026 Tennessee football preview

Four-star safety Mekhi Williams immediately became the Wisconsin Badgers top-rated recruit in their class of 2027.Luke Fickell has outdone himself as he was able to not only flip Williams from Florida State, but also beat out LSU and Nebraska in a battle for Florida's top safety.After landing Williams, Wisconsin jumped to No. 15 in 247Sports recruiting rankings.This marks a significant milestone for the Badgers, one that didn't seem achievable after how poorly they've been during Fickell's time in Madison.Currently, the team has 17 commitments and has a ton of visits lined up this weekend. Should things go according to plan, Wisconsin could enter the top 10 and establish one of the best recruiting classes in the entire country.Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion.This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Wisconsin re-enters top 15 after flipping FSU's Mekhi Williams

Nature, Published online: 04 June 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-01764-6Antineutrinos made alongside the production of weapons-grade plutonium could be spotted with existing technology.

Nature, Published online: 03 June 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-01799-9Newly-discovered ‘ruptoblasts’ explode to shower nearby cells with toxic chemicals. Plus, how psychology is tackling its reproducibility crisis and when to settle, according to maths.

Nature, Published online: 01 June 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-01762-8Traces from some of the earliest animals reveal when they began to sense light.

Inter willing to include Frattesi in exchange deal for Roma’s ManciniReports in Italy claim that Inter are willing to include midfielder Davide Frattesi in a potential exchange deal with Roma, which would see centre-back Gianluca Mancini moving in the opposite direction.Inter willing to include Frattesi in potential Mancini dealInter are planning to add to their defensive department during the summer transfer window as Francesco Acerbi and Matteo Darmian will leave the club at the end of their contracts while Yann Bisseck could potentially be sold amidst reported interest from Bayern Munich.According to the latest updates, Udinese’s Oumar Solet and Roma’s Mancini are the two leading options for Inter at centre-back as things stand.Mancini will be heading into the final year of his contract at the Stadio Olimpico this summer, and there is hope from the Nerazzurri camp that this means he will be available for a cut-price fee. Roma have been in talks over a possible extension of Mancini’s contract, expiring in 2027, but have not yet reached an agreement.Now, according to updates from Gianluca Di Marcio and Sky Sport Italia, in an attempt to lower the price for Mancini even further, Inter are willing to include midfielder Frattesi in a potential player exchange deal.MADRID, SPAIN – NOVEMBER 26: Davide Frattesi of FC Internazionale Milano in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between Atletico de Madrid and FC Internazionale Milano at Estadio Metropolitano on November 26, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)Frattesi fell massively down the Nerazzurri pecking order under Cristian Chivu this season, starting just three times in Serie A, three times in the Champions League and three times in the early rounds of the Coppa Italia, and seems increasingly likely to leave San Siro this summer.Frattesi was born and raised in the Italian capital and spent time with both Lazio and Roma during his youth career. He had three years with the Giallorossi between 2014 and 2017 before moving to Sassuolo.

LAHORE, Pakistan (AP) — Australia brought in Cooper Connolly for the series decider against Pakistan as captain Josh Inglis won the toss and elected to bat in the third and final one-day international on Thursday.Connolly replaced leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha in the only change the tourists made from the team which won the second game by 41 runs at the same venue on Tuesday to level the series.Pakistan, which won the first match at Rawalpindi last week by five wickets, went in with the same playing XI for the third successive game, hoping the wicket will suit its four-pronged spin attack of Abrar Ahmed, Arafat Minhas, Shadab Khan and Salman Ali Agha.The start of the game was delayed by 15 minutes due to a brief thunderstorm and rain in Lahore.___Lineups:Australia: Matthew Short, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis (captain), Matthew Renshaw, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Cooper Connolly, Oliver Peake, Nathan Ellis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Adam Zampa.Pakistan: Sahibzada Farhan, Maaz Sadaqat, Babar Azam, Ghazi Ghori, Salman Ali Agha, Abdul Samad, Shadab Khan, Arafat Minhas, Shaheen Shah Afridi (captain), Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.____AP cricket: https://apnews.com/hub/cricket

Former USC Trojan and now Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams made the cover of the newest Madden video game for this upcoming NFL season. Caleb Williams becomes the first Bear since 2009, as Roberto Garza made the Spanish version of Madden cover that year.Caleb Williams really took that step forward and lived up to the hype he had coming into the NFL last season. He led the Bears to an NFC North title win and a playoff victory in just his second season. He did that all while making some of the best highlight reel plays happen in the entire NFL last season. There is real hype and buzz surrounding Caleb Williams. Caleb Williams is the most entertaining player in the NFL, and the entire league has fully taken notice. Things are heading towards Caleb Williams being the face of the league very soon. Being on the Madden cover for this season is a direct reflection of that notion. With every star that has been on the Madden cover, there is a curse that is speculated to follow them. Whether it is an injury or a down season, many give credit to the cover being the reason for a player's downfall. Fortunately for Caleb Williams, he has already been there and done that with speculated curses. It seems like the Bears being a franchise where quarterbacks go to die has boded for him very well. This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Bears' Caleb Williams will be on cover of Madden 27 this NFL season

Italian Antonio Conte coached Napoli for two seasons (CARLO HERMANN)Italian Serie A runners-up Napoli confirmed on Thursday that coach Antonio Conte will leave the club after two years with former AC Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri tipped to take over."Napoli announces that an agreement has been reached with Antonio Conte and his staff to part ways before the natural expiry of their contracts," the club said in a statement."We would like to thank the coach and his backroom team for their excellent work. We wish them the very best for the future and the next challenges they will face in their careers."Thanks, coach!"Conte, 56, who guided Napoli to the Serie A title in the 2024/25 campaign, has been widely touted as the favourite to take over as Italy coach.The former Italy international previously coached the national side between 2014 and 2016, taking them to the Euro 2016 quarter-finals where they lost on penalties to Germany.Napoli are reported to be in advanced talks with Allegri, 58, who was sacked as AC Milan coach after missing out on next season's Champions League.jr/ea/pi

SAN ANTONIO, TX - JUNE 2: Mason Plumlee #45 of the San Antonio Spurs passes the ball during 2026 NBA Finals Practice and Media Availability on June 2, 2026 at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE(Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images In Game 1 of the NBA Finals, New York basically out-toughed San Antonio late in the game to pull out a 105-95 win. As we’ve seen during the rest of the playoffs, former Blue Devil Mason Plumlee rarely gets off the bench, and Wednesday was no exception, as he got another DNP. In general, you could argue that this game was a great example of the value of experience. The average age of the Knicks starters is about 29. The average age of San Antonio’s are closer to 22. The overall average age of the Knicks is 27.2; for the Spurs, it’s 25.2.The Spurs, and particularly Victor Wembanyama, are the future of the league, but it may not happen this year. Wembanyama, for example, shot just 6-21 Wednesday night, and said bluntly that he had a bad game. Game 2 is on Friday, and is again in San Antonio. If the Spurs lose twice at home, they’ll have a major problem. Victor Wembanyama Makes Blunt Admission After Knicks Take Game 1 on Spurs’ Home FloorSpurs Collapse Late in Fourth Quarter, Drop Game 1 of NBA Finals to KnicksDevin Vassell calls out major issue Spurs must fix in Knicks seriesThese Knicks once again proved they truly are different with Game 1 haymakerSpurs let game 1 slip away as Knicks rally for 105-95 finals winThe Knicks’ Jalen Brunson can already do what the Spurs are still figuring outMike Brown reveals Rick Brunson’s blunt message that calmed Knicks vs. SpursFan runs onto court, briefly stopping Game 1 of NBA FinalsHow Jalen Brunson overcame injury to will Knicks to win vs. Spurs with clutch 4th quarterSelfie-taking fan storms court in surreal NBA Finals Game 1 sceneVictor Wembanyama came up short in disastrous NBA Finals Game 1 fourth quarterJosh Hart’s efforts help Knicks turn around Game 1 of the NBA Finals and beat the SpursGo to the DBR Boards to find Blue Healer Auctions || Drop us a line

Priest’s Ebola Death Stirs Fear an Doubt in Congolese Town

Through the 2024-25 season, the Los Angeles Lakers have had a total of 506 players suit up for them, going back to their days in Minneapolis. Some were forgettable, some were serviceable, some were good and a select few were flat-out legendary.During the Lakers' 80th season of existence (they were founded back in 1946 as the Detroit Gems in the National Basketball League), LeBron Wire is taking a look at each player who has worn their jersey, whether it has been a purple and gold one or the ones they donned back in the Midwest during their early years.While the Lakers won NBA championships in 1980, 1982 and 1985, by the 1986-87 season, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was finally starting to show his age. In addition, they had always lacked a quality backup for him, and the power forward position had been a relative weakness for them throughout the decade.They addressed all those issues with one move when, midway through the 1986-87 campaign, they sent Frank Brickowski, Pétur Guðmundsson and two future draft picks to the San Antonio Spurs for big man Mychal Thompson. Thompson was the No. 1 pick in the 1978 draft, and while he had never been an All-Star, he had put up strong scoring and rebounding numbers from year to year.The 6-foot-10 Bahamian native quickly became a fixture for the Lakers, and having played with Kevin McHale in college, he knew how to contain the Hall of Fame Boston Celtics power forward. Los Angeles zoomed to a 65-17 record and defeated the Celtics in six games in the NBA Finals in 1987, and it then pushed past the Detroit Pistons in the 1988 championship series to become the first team in nearly 20 years to repeat as NBA champions.Thompson stayed with the Lakers until he retired from the NBA in 1991, and he averaged 8.9 points and 5.4 rebounds in 22.8 minutes a game during his time with the Purple and Gold. Overall, he had career league averages of 13.7 points and 7.4 rebounds a game.In modern times, he is known as the Lakers' color commentator for radio broadcasts, and he has also served as a co-host on multiple radio talk shows in the L.A. market.This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Lakers jersey history No. 43 — Mychal Thompson

A Gary Panks-design in Arizona aims to never overseed again. FireRock Country Club in the Phoenix suburb of Fountain Hills, recently completed a major renovation that also makes it the first facility in the state to introduce Stadium Zoysia across tees, fairways and green surrounds.The Stadium Zoysia was developed by Bladerunner Farms and supplied by licensed grower West Coast Turf. It's designed for sustainable, year-round play in desert conditions, which would mean the end of the traditional overseed to winter rye grass, a water-intensive process but one that virtually all golf courses in Arizona go through."Our water supply was once described as the worst in the Southwest," said Tim Geesey, FireRock's general manager. "We were following the same practices as everyone else in town trying to get the grass to grow, and we just couldn't. We were spending all this money and wasting all this water for nothing. Now, we've created a solution that positions us for the future."Ahead of a grand re-opening in 2025, the club made the decision to steer away from overseeding, which required significant infrastructure improvements. Six inches of topsoil was removed and a new drainage system was installed, allowing for the course routing to stay true to Panks' original vision.The private golf course, which opened in 1999, reported immediate dividends and says there were 4,700 rounds played in January, up from 4,000 from the years before. Even bigger is the 40 million gallons of water saved annually while offering year-round play."FireRock Country Club had the vision to take a necessary leap forward," David Doguet, CEO and Founder of Bladerunner Farms, said. "What they've accomplished is more than a renovation. It's a reset of what's possible for golf in desert environments. This project proves that courses no longer have to choose between playability and sustainability. They can achieve both."Todd Kelly is an assistant editor for Golfweek. This article originally appeared on Golfweek: FireRock is first course in Arizona to introduces Stadium Zoysia turf

Left out: see 18 shirts that may not be worn at the World CupAmong the two (or three) shirts of each of the 48 World Cup teams, some were not selected for the first stage.FIFA released the combination for each first-stage match, and 18 shirts are out of the group stage and will only have a chance to appear at the World Cup if the teams wearing them advance to the next round.Check out the survey carried out by Mantos do Futebol, a website specialized in the subject:Among the "excluded" are some social media hits, such as the alternate shirts of South Africa, Curaçao, and Japan.What about you? Which of these shirts would you like to see on the pitch during the World Cup?Leave your comment.This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

Washington has joined the fray for one of the top running back recruits in the class of 2028.The Huskies extended an offer to Pennington (New Jersey) running back Tahmere Brown last week, his 19th reported FBS offer according to 247Sports. Brown also holds offers from Florida, Ohio State, Oregon, Penn State, Texas A&M, UCLA, USC, and Notre Dame, among others.ATTG after an great conversation with @CoachCRAW i am blessed to receive an offer from @UW_Football#gohuskies@MikeWakins@ScottieGraham@ChadSimmons_@TomLoy247pic.twitter.com/tZEMd8U7Bz— Tahmere Brown 5⭐️ (@Tahmerebrown23) May 20, 2026Washington has been active in head coach Jedd Fisch's home state since he arrived on Montlake, signing quarterback Derek Zammit out of DePaul Catholic in this year's class and earning a visit from 2027 edge rusher Chaz Gray from St. Joseph Regional. Brown is currently the highest profile recruit of those three as the No. 169 overall player and No. 12 running back in the 2028 class.As recently as March, Brown was considered the No. 2 running back in the class, however. He received an invitation to The Opening Finals coming up on June 24, where fellow Washington targets, five-star 2028 tight end Tytan McNeal and four-star 2027 wide receiver Osani Gayles, will also be in attendance.Brown took a trip to the West Coast in March, viewing UCLA, USC, and Oregon on three consecutive days. 247Sports recruiting analyst Tom Loy said this about Brown during that stretch of visits: "Brown is an explosive back, one of the most dynamic in the country, regardless of class. He has a tremendous blend of speed, acceleration, vision, and three-down versatility.""He is about as polished as you'll find out of the backfield in any class, including 2026, 2027, 2028, or 2029. He has a good, rock-solid frame and build, packed with burst and juice with the ball in his hands. He can catch the ball out of the backfield, create in space, all while running between the tackles with wiggle and power. His patience, as such a young back, is incredible. He waits for holes to open up and flies through them. There is a reason why he has so many offers under his belt at this point, with so many more to come."Washington signed four-star Brian Bonner Jr. and three-star Ansu Sanoe in the 2026 class and currently has four-star Jeremy Adeyanju of Sandra Day O'Connor (Ariz.) committed in the 2027 class at the position. Sophomore Jordan Washington and redshirt freshman Quaid Carr, who are expected to be in the mix for major playing time this season, assuming health for Washington, would also have remaining eligibility in 2028.This article originally appeared on Huskies Wire: Washington Huskies offer elite New Jersey running back in 2028 class

UConn Huskies big man Tarris Reed Jr. can be counted among the better centers in the 2026 NBA Draft. While he may not be as popular as other center prospects like Aday Mara and Henri Veesaar, Reed has demonstrated that he has the talent and skill to stick in the league that both Mara and Veesaar possess. Let’s dive into an evaluation of Reed in this 2026 NBA Draft profile.Tarris Reed Jr. 2026 NBA Draft ProfileCollege CareerReed played for two teams in his collegiate career, the Michigan Wolverines and the UConn Huskies. He played his first two seasons with the Wolverines, where he played a limited role off the bench for his freshman year. For his sophomore season, Reed became the full-time starter for Michigan, having seen a general increase in his production.After his second collegiate season, Reed decided to transfer to UConn to play under head coach Dan Hurley, who had just won back-to-back national titles. Reed saw another increase in his production despite playing a bench role behind starting big man Samson Johnson. His contributions helped UConn make the NCAA Tournament, where they made it as far as the second round. His level of play also helped Reed win the 2024-2025 Big East Sixth Man of the Year award.As for this past season, Reed became UConn’s full-time starting center, and he increased his level of production even further. Reed demonstrated his talents as a skilled post scorer and excellent rebounder, utilizing his size and strength to bully opposing players. As one of the most important players on the roster and UConn’s leading scorer, Reed helped lead the Huskies to the NCAA Tournament as a second seed. They got past multiple tough opponents like the Michigan State Spartans and Duke Blue Devils to make it to the National Championship game, eventually losing to his former team, the Michigan Wolverines.Reed averaged 14.7 points, 9.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 2.0 blocks in 27.3 minutes per game this season. He shot 60.7% from the field and 61.7% from the free-throw line. For his efforts on the season, Reed made the All-Big East first team, received an All-Big East Tournament nod, was selected for the NCAA All-Tournament award, and was honored with an NCAA Tournament All-Region selection.StrengthsOffenseReed has demonstrated impressive abilities in several areas on the offensive end. One positive for Reed is his strong interior scoring, using his strength and footwork to break down the opposition in the paint. Reed has shown that he is slightly quicker than opposing bigs, allowing him to burst by them to score. He also uses that strength and size well to be a terrific screener in the pick-and-roll, allowing his teammates to gain significant space to operate with.Another aspect of his offensive game that has shone is his passing upside. Reed has demonstrated extremely positive signs as a passer, such as having a 17.8% assist rate, which is at an amazing 95th percentile among bigs. He also possesses a great 1.2 assist-to-turnover ratio, which is at the 88th percentile. Reed uses his gravity as a post scorer to force defenses to collapse on him, where he can spray the ball out to open teammates. As a passer, Reed is great at finding cutters and has shown the potential to make cross-court passes.Reed’s offensive rebounding is another excellent ability in his skill set. He is great at fighting on the glass and keeping possession alive, having averaged 3.2 offensive rebounds. He has a 14.2% offensive rebounding rate, which is good for the 82nd percentile. His size, length, and physicality serve him well as he can outmuscle opposing players for second-chance opportunities.DefenseWhile Reed isn’t the quickest or most explosive defender at the center position, he does have multiple aspects that make him impactful defensively. Something that is in Reed’s favor as a defender is his sturdy frame and overall strength. He has the physicality to contend with other big men in the post. Reed uses his length well to bother or alter shots. He combines his length with solid positioning and awareness to be an active defender. He has a 2.0% steal rate, which sits at the 78th percentile among centers.One of his best aspects as a defender is his rebounding, utilizing his length and physicality to battle on the boards. He averaged an impressive 9.0 rebounds for UConn this past season, and Reed’s defensive rebounding rate stands at an equally-impressive 24.5%, which is at the 82nd percentile.WeaknessesOffenseSomething that is clear about Reed’s offensive game is that he is strictly limited to scoring in the paint. He hasn’t demonstrated any ability to stretch the floor and is not someone who can create their own shot besides through post-ups. Reed will most likely be limited to rim-running and screen setting in terms of the offensive end. Additionally, Reed isn’t someone who can consistently knock down his free throws, shooting only 61.7% on 4.4 attempts per game. Not only does that make him less reliable in late-game situations, but it is also a negative indicator of potential shooting upside. Also, Reed isn’t the quickest or most explosive player, which may hinder his ability to be a lob threat.DefenseThe 2026 NBA Draft prospect is a strong interior defender, but he does have areas of concern on defense. Specifically, his lack of quickness will make it difficult for him to stay in front of NBA-level guards. He will find it difficult to defend against ball-screens, where he is being switched defensively onto perimeter players.It should also be noted that Reed’s lack of vertical athleticism will be a detriment to his overall rim protection abilities, as he isn’t the best shot-blocker, and the level of athleticism at the NBA level is significantly higher. In fact, Reed’s block rate is only 8.4%, which sits at just the 65th percentile among big men. Reed is also a bit undersized as a center at six-foot-ten, though he does have a seven-foot-four wingspan.NBA ComparisonIn terms of an NBA comparison for Reed, one player that he shares similarities with is current Brooklyn Nets big man Day’Ron Sharpe. They are both undersized centers who possess great length and a sturdy frame. While neither is a standout rim protector, both use their strength and positioning to bother opposing players in the paint. Furthermore, they actively use their length to bother passing lanes. They also utilize that strength on the offense and when rebounding the ball. Reed and Sharpe both have good touch around the rim, and they also have solid vision for big men.2026 NBA Draft ProjectionLate first to early second round pick.Featured Image: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images

BUENOS AIRES (AP) — Argentina has bitter memories of 1994, the last time the United States hosted the World Cup.After the second group stage match, national icon Diego Maradona was expelled from the tournament due to a positive doping test. Maradona would never play another World Cup match, and Argentina was eliminated in the round of 16.Thirty-two years later, the South American powerhouse is hoping for a happier ending for Maradona’s heir, Lionel Messi, who is turning 39 this month and is widely expected to retire from international soccer after the curtain comes down on the 2026 World Cup, which the U.S. is co-hosting with Mexico and Canada.If he and Argentina manage to keep the World Cup trophy they won four years ago in Qatar, they will become the first team to win back-to-back titles since Brazil in 1962. It would also strengthen the claim of those who already call Messi the greatest player of all time.“I love playing football and I’m going to do it until I can’t anymore,” Messi told Argentine broadcast journalist Joaquín “Pollo” Álvarez in a YouTube interview. "I’m competitive, I like to win at everything, I don’t even let my kids win at video games sometimes. It’s just my nature and what led me to achieve everything I have.”After more than 20 years playing for Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami, Messi’s body is showing signs of wear. A week ahead of what will be his record sixth World Cup, he is recovering from a hamstring problem that led to his substitution during Inter Miami’s final match before the tournament on May 24.The Argentina captain worked out on his own at the team's base camp in Kansas City this week.“We all would have liked Messi to arrive without any problems, but that’s not the case. Not only him, most of the players aren’t fully recovered yet,” Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni told DSports, a Latin American TV network.Multiple players in the squad are facing fitness concernsGoalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, hero of two penalty shootouts in 2022, including the final against France, suffered a fracture to the ring finger of his right hand during the Europa League final while playing for Aston Villa.Defender Cristian “Cuti” Romero is recovering from a knee injury he picked up in mid-April while playing for Tottenham. Right backs Nahuel Molina and Gonzalo Montiel are dealing with muscle injuries as is midfielder Leandro Paredes.Argentina, also champion in 1978 and 1986, will play its first group stage match on June 16 against Algeria in Kansas City. Next up in Group J are Austria on June 22 and Jordan on June 27 in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas.Scaloni is relying on 17 of the 26 players who won the World Cup in 2022, even though several are not in peak physical condition.“Why change them if they don’t deserve that? We’ve always been honest with them. The players who are here today have shown us they want to be here. And secondly, their level hasn’t dropped,” Scaloni said.Argentina won the Copa América in 2024 and finished top of the South American World Cup qualifying group.Atletico Madrid forward Julián Álvarez is key to Scaloni’s attack, while Barcelona, Arsenal, and PSG are reportedly vying for his signature for next season. The coach has also brought in three debutants: midfielder Valentín Barco, who recently signed for Chelsea, and forwards Nicolás Paz, a key player for Como in Italy, and Juan Manuel López, the top scorer for Brazilian club Palmeiras.A notable absence compared to four years ago is Ángel Di María, who retired from the national team in 2024. Besides Messi, he was instrumental in Argentina’s success in Qatar.“It’s impossible to fill Di María’s shoes. He and Messi are irreplaceable,” Scaloni said.A future without Messi is hard to imagineAlways soft-spoken, Messi has tried to lower expectations of another World Cup title.“We have to get excited, like Argentines always do, but we also have to know that there are other favorites ahead of us who are in better form,” he said.Messi already holds the record for most World Cup matches (26) and needs four more goals to surpass Germany’s Miroslav Klose’s record of 16 World Cup goals.While he hasn't explicitly said he will retire from the national team after the World Cup, he dropped a big hint last September when he talked about the team's qualifying match against Venezuela in Buenos Aires as his last competitive home game for Argentina.“It was very emotional, knowing this was my last competitive match here,” he said after the game at the Monumental Stadium. “I've been through a lot in this stadium — some great moments and some difficult ones — but it's always special to play in front of our fans.” Scaloni, like most Argentines, also gets emotional when thinking about a national team without Messi.“I like to think he’s going to keep playing because otherwise you get sad, like what happened with Diego (Maradona),” Scaloni said in an interview published on the website of South American soccer confederation CONMEBOL. “They are players who have made history in football and thinking that they won’t play anymore doesn’t leave you at peace. I prefer to think about the present.”___AP World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-world-cup

The offseason is underway for Clemson baseball, and the transfer portal is already having a significant impact on the Tigers’ roster.Following a season that saw Clemson miss the NCAA Tournament, several players have announced plans to continue their careers elsewhere. As roster movement picks up across the country, the Tigers have already seen a number of departures from the 2026 squad.Among the most notable losses is Nate Savoie, who recently earned recognition as the top player currently available in the transfer portal. The standout catcher was one of Clemson’s most productive hitters this season and leaves a major void in the lineup. Replacing that kind of production won’t be easy for Erik Bakich and his staff.In total, nine Clemson players have entered the transfer portal so far: Nate Savoie, Bryce Clavon, Jay Dillard, Peyton Miller, Collin Priest, Jason Fultz Jr., Talan Bell, Hayden Simmerson and Noah Samol.With the portal remaining open throughout June, additional movement is expected both at Clemson and around college baseball. The Tigers will look to address roster needs through the portal while also navigating any future departures as they begin building toward the 2027 season.Former Clemson star Nate Savoie tops national transfer portal rankings📸 Ken Ruinard / USA Today Network South Carolina, Ken Ruinard / USA Today Network South Carolina / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images https://t.co/aT6HP4FgE0pic.twitter.com/yVXcaamtTX— Clemson Wire (@Clemson_Wire) June 4, 2026For those looking for a more detailed breakdown of every player entering or leaving the program, along with the latest portal developments, be sure to check out our Clemson baseball transfer portal tracker.Contact us @Clemson_Wire on X, and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Clemson Tigers news and notes, plus opinions.This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Which Tigers have entered the transfer portal from Clemson baseball?

New Jersey has quietly become one of the best places in America to watch soccer. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup setting up MetLife Stadium as a host for eight matches, the state’s sports bars, pubs, and neighborhood restaurants statewide are preparing for massive crowds, nonstop match viewings, and the kind of amped up atmosphere usually enjoyed by Europe or South America football fans. From the Ironbound in Newark to the waterfront bars of Hoboken and the Irish pubs sprinkled along the Jersey Shore, soccer culture in New Jersey runs deep. As the World Cup approaches, we’ve rounded up New Jersey’s top soccer bars where fans can experience all of the festive enthusiasm for these exciting matches without the hassle or price tag of visiting the stadium.READ MORE: 2026 FIFA World Cup schedule: Every date, kickoff time & how to watch all 104 matchesBlarney Station, East RutherfordBlarney Station has been serving East Rutherford for over 20 years and during World Cup matches, will be offering daily food, drink and happy hour specials available. As in former World Cup years, Blarney Station will have a solid selection of team-specific beers on tap, ranging from German Pilsners, Warsteiner, Carlsberg and more.Darby Road Public House, Scotch PlainsThe dream child of two locals, Joseph Mortarulo, an ex-pro soccer player and restaurateur, John “Skip” Brandi, Darby Road Public House is Scotch Plain’s “Irish Soccer Pub that redefines the New Jersey pub experience.” Their World Cup HQ outdoor experience returns,featuring a 25′ jumbotron, food trucks, beer tents, full bars, mini soccer fields, picnic tables and more.D’Arcy’s Tavern, Bradley Beach“The Shore’s Home to Soccer,” D’Arcy’s Tavern in Bradley Beach is a go-to. This place draws a serious crowd, so if that kind of energy gets you going, D’Arcy’s is your soccer viewing spot, shore local or not. They will be streaming all World Cup games live, and if history repeats itself, will throw another parking lot party for the Final.Ed & Mary’s, Jersey CityThe vibe in Hoboken’s neighboring town of Jersey City may be a little more mellow, but they still know how to turn it up for major sporting events. Pop in to unassuming, family-owned Hamilton Park local, Ed & Mary’s for any of the soccer matches, and mark your calendar for their World Cup Finale watch party on July 19th from 11am-7pm.Firkin Tavern, EwingTouted as “Mercer County’s premier soccer bar” and legitimately the first craft beer bar featuring 37 drafts and over 20 bottles and cans, this English/American/Irish gastropub will be showing the World Cup matches starting at 11am on June 11th. Cozy up with your brew of choice in front of one of their 17 TVs or their 100-inch big screen projector. Those less interested in soccer can hang in Firkin’s game room (21 and older), complete with darts, two pool tables, shuffle board, air hockey, giant Jenga, “Golden Tee” and more.Galpao New Jersey, NewarkKnown for its passionate Brazilian soccer fan base, Galpao is a go-to viewing outpost in the Ironbound, especially during South American games, major tournaments and big international matches. With its striking green facade, interior decor and swag, the community pride is palpable, feeling more like a place you’d hang out with family and friends than your typical sports bar. Grasshopper Off The Green, MorristownDuring the World Cup, Morristown’s tri-floor Grasshopper Off The Green has historically followed their soccer fan patron’s lead when it comes to opening times during the World Cup. If the demand is there, they will open for the early games, offering multiple beer specials to accommodate the varied start times for most matches.Hailey's Harp & Pub dining room in Metuchen, NJ, on Wednesday, March 6, 2024.Ed Murray| For NJ Advance MediaHailey’s Harp & Pub, Metuchen“When you’re at Hailey’s, you’ll always be among friends,” their website states … unless they’re on the other team. An official watch site for the American Outlaws, a nationwide organization that supports the U.S. Men’s and Women’s Soccer Teams, Hailey’s will be showing all World Cup matches, offering drink and food specials, giveaways and other festive surprises.Mickey’s Bar & Grill, LyndhurstBig groups rejoice! Mickey’s Bar & Grill is a great choice if you’re rolling deep during the World Cup. Home to the $39 Party Special, a four hour-long, 2-course meal (pasta and salad) and and two hours of $1 off drinks for 40 people in their semi-private Party Room, Mickey’s also has 50 televisions, so if you can’t score the party room, there’s plenty of opportunities to watch the World Cup otherwise.Patrons react during a World Cup Final watch party at Mulligan’s Pub in Hoboken on Sunday, December 18, 2022John Jones | For NJ Advance MediaMulligan’s Pub, HobokenWith a motto like “Every game, every minute, every play,” the high bar that Mulligan’s Pub in Hoboken sets is delivered upon, especially during the World Cup when they will open early for each match, and have the option to stay open late, thanks to Governor Mikie Sherill’s recent proclamation. If the soccer shrine interior doesn’t have you convinced, just stumble outside where you’ll find a World Cup trophy carved into a stump of a fallen tree.Redd’s Restaurant & Biergarten, CarlstadtHeading to MetLife Stadium or just want to be close to the action? Redd’s Restaurant & Biergarten in Carlstadt is a great World Cup destination thanks to its 50 HD TVs, energetic sports-bar atmosphere, large communal seating, extensive food and drink options, and longstanding reputation as a gathering spot for soccer fans. They even offer a park and ride option for fans heading to the stadium.Scots American Club, KearnyKearny is a historical hub for soccer, more specifically, the Scottish-American community. Formed in 1931, the Scots American Club’s goal of making immigrant Scots feel at home in New Jersey was a consequence of being home to some of the earliest soccer games played in the United States. Fast forward to today, when you can head over to the bar at the Scots Club to experience a slice of that history while enjoying the soccer matches on their flat screens and a rotating selection of Scottish and local craft beers. Bonus points: the club has a professional-grade shuffleboard table, darts a pool table, and private rooms that can be reserved.The Cottage Bar, TeaneckFans of English Premier League’s Liverpool FC know The Cottage Bar well, but diehard soccer fans revel in the energy of this high-energy Irish pub. A variety go lunch and dinner specials will run during the World Cup, but it’s the melting pot of fans and high-octane viewing experience that draws soccer enthusiasts in time and time again.The Dublin House, Red BankThe Dublin House in Red Bank is no stranger to soccer, touting a schedule of English Premier League games during non-World Cup times. To enhance their already soccer-centric programming, they will be showing all World Cup matches, including drink specials, giveaways and more.World Cup contest at Tommy Fox's Public House in BergenfieldTommy Fox'sTommy Fox’s Public House, BergenfieldA self-proclaimed “World Cup Headquarters”, Tommy Fox’s is building off of their quality 2022 World Cup programming, showing all matches on their big screen. They’ll be running specials throughout the tournament, with a focus on the US games, when they will have DJ Sir William performing before the game, during halftime, and after the final whistle. They’ll also have a contest where guests can win a prize if they correctly predict the final score and the man of the match.Read the original article on NJ.com. Add NJ.com as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Arsenal confirm 15 released players & 3 in contract talksArsenal have confirmed their list of players to depart the club at the end of their contracts this summer, along with a few still in negotiations to stay.Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty ImagesArsenal officially confirmed their list of released players on Thursday, made up of u21s, u18s, and players from the women’s team. None of the Arsenal men’s team are on the list, though some (like Josh Nichols) have made first-team appearances.The full list of players confirmed to be leaving the club is as follows:Sam ChapmanLaia CodinaHarrison DudziakSeb FerdinandCam’ron IsmailWill Lannin-SweetKatie McCabeBeth MeadJosh NicholsSamuel OnyekachukwuVictoria PelovaAlexei Rojas-FedorushchenkoBarbora VotikovaNaomi WilliamsManuela ZinsbergerPhoto via Premier League on InstagramArsenal add that a few more players are coming to the end of their contracts on June 30th, but remain in negotiations with the club over a possible extension.Caitlin Foord of the Arsenal Women and Alex Marciniak and Josh Ogunnaike of the Arsenal academy are the three players whose situations remain up in the air.Recent reports have suggested that Foord is expected to sign new terms, but the deal evidently isn’t done yet.Both Marciniak and Ogunnaike will have aged out of u18 football by next season, so if they stick around, they’ll be full-time u21 players.Photo via Arsenal.comIt’s a credit to the people in charge of the Arsenal’s men’s first-team that there are no senior men on the list of released players, nor on the list of players in contract negotiations.Mikel Arteta and the Arsenal contract team haven’t let any members of his squad run their contracts down to their final months, which should hopefully mean that everyone who leaves this summer does so for a fee.

Official: Conte is no longer head coach of NapoliNapoli have released a formal statement confirming that Antonio Conte is no longer head coach of the club having left his position by mutual consent one year ahead of schedule.Official: Napoli part company with Conte after two yearsIt had been widely reported that Conte was expected to leave Napoli after two seasons in charge. The coach himself bid his farewells to supporters on social media on Wednesday, thanking them for the role they played during the last ‘two winning years’.Napoli have now officially confirmed that Conte is no longer head coach, having left his position by mutual consent. The five-time Scudetto winner had been under contract for another season, until the end of the 2026-27 campaign, but as is typically the case with Conte, he has decided to call it a day after two years.“SSC Napoli announces that it has terminated the professional relationship with coach Antonio Conte and his staff by mutual consent, in advance of the natural contract deadline,” read a statement on Thursday.“At the helm of the Azzurri for two seasons, Conte led Napoli to the fourth Scudetto on May 23, 2026, and to the Supercoppa Italiana victory on December 22.RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – DECEMBER 22: Antonio Cnote, Head Coach of SSC Napoli, poses for a photo with the Supercoppa Italiana trophy after the team’s victory in the Supercoppa Italiana Final between SSC Napoli and Bologna FC 1909 at King Saud University Stadium on December 22, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)“Our thanks go to the coach and his staff for the excellent work they have done, as well as our best wishes for the future and for the next professional challenges they decide to take on. Grazie, Mister.”Conte won the Serie A title during his first season in charge of Napoli, which means that he is the only coach to have won the Italian top flight title with three different clubs, having also claimed the Scudetto with Juventus and Inter.Despite a poor run in the Champions League and a slightly underwhelming defence of their Serie A title in 2025-26, but between his stints with Napoli, Inter and Juventus, Conte has never finished lower than second place.

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Krunal Pandya is not your conventional left-arm orthodox spinner, he is a bowler that continuously adds new dimensions to his bowling in the evolving format of T20 cricket. He has focused on discovering new ways to stay relevant in a format that constantly pushes the bowlers to limits.Fresh off a sensational back-to-back IPL titles with Royal Challengers Bengaluru(RCB) and his overall 5th IPL trophy, the senior all-rounder discussed his successful season with Times Of India in an exclusive interview. In an impressive season with all-round performances, in 16 matches, he scored 226 runs at an average of 37.67 with a strike rate of 145.81, and claimed 14 wickets at an economy of 8.42.In an era of evolving batting and scores of 200-plus routinely, an economy of 8.42 is quite a remarkable achievement. A massive reason behind his sustained success has been his continuous tactical evolution. This season, Krunal introduced unorthodox variations, most notably a quick spinner's bouncer and a low side-arm slinger delivery. Both weapons helped him to challenge traditional match-ups and break the long-standing norm that left-arm finger spinners cannot effectively bowl to left-handed batter.When asked exactly how late in his delivery stride he decides to unleash these surprise variations, Krunal revealed that the execution relies entirely on his instincts rather than pre-match planning."It’s very instinctive. I don’t plan. When I’m at the top of my run-up, I’ve realised that it is important to narrow down my focus. Because accuracy is an important part of this sport. And then, it’s all very instinctive. Nothing is pre-planned," Krunal told TOI.Krunal who has been bowling deliveries that clocks in between 105kph to 120kph, the left-arm spinner has bowled more bouncers than any other bowler since the start of 2025 IPL season. He has bowled more bouncers than elite pacers like Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj while also claiming the man of the match award in the 2025 final with RCB claiming their first IPL trophy of their two consecutive crowns."It wasn't about being unique or funny," Krunal explained regarding his reinvented bowling style. "It was about breaking the norm. You have to evolve to have longevity."With five IPL trophies in his cabinet and a desire to bowl his surprise bouncers with a speed of 125 kmph next year, the 35-year-old remains hopeful of an Indian national team recall.

The countdown to the Masters at Augusta has officially begun, and you have an opportunity to get a ticket for 2027.The 2027 Masters Tournament returns to the iconic Augusta National Golf Club from April 8–11, 2027. Entry into the tournament is granted only through the club’s official ticket lottery, a completely random selection process.The application window is now open.If you are planning to attend this historic 91st championship edition, here are some key details you should know.When is the 2027 Masters ticket lottery?Golf fans across South Carolina and beyond can submit their names, hoping for the chance to walk the grounds of Augusta National in 2027.To apply, visit the Official Masters Tickets Portal between June 1 and June 20 to enter the random ticket lottery.Ticket limits for the 2027 MastersThe Augusta Masters ticket lottery is tight.Fans can request up to four tickets per day for the Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday practice rounds. However, once tournament play begins, the limit drops to two tickets per day for Thursday through Sunday of the tournament.No matter how many days you apply for, each person is eligible to win the chance to buy a one-day pass for the 2027 Masters.How much are tickets for the 2027 Masters?Ticket prices for the Masters golf tournament include flat rates across all rounds.Monday and Tuesday practice rounds — $125Wednesday Par‑3 contest — $150Thursday-Sunday tournament rounds — $160Augusta National Inc. is the only authorized source for Masters tickets, and reselling them is strictly prohibited. Tickets obtained through third parties, by any method, risk being rejected at the gate and may not be accepted for tournament entry.How the lottery for Masters tickets worksAccording to tournament officials, the selection for practice‑round and tournament tickets will begin once the June 20 application deadline passes.Successful applicants will see confirmation and payment instructions posted directly to their online accounts at that time. Tournament tickets are awarded first, and anyone not selected but who also applies for practice‑round access will automatically roll into the practice‑round lottery.Every applicant, selected or not, will receive an email in late July once the club finalizes the “random selection process.”For more information on tickets, call the Masters Tournament Ticket Office at 706-667-6700.Travis Jacque Rose is the trending news reporter for the Greenville News, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at trose@gannett.com.This article originally appeared on Greenville News: How to get tickets for the 2027 Masters. How to apply for the lottery

NEW DELHI: The mere presence of Virat Kohli in the dressing room is enough to lift standards. His intensity, work ethic and never-say-die attitude to win have long made him the heartbeat of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and IPL 2026 was no different. Kohli played a pivotal role in RCB's second consecutive IPL title triumph, finishing as the franchise's highest run-scorer and the fourth-highest overall in the tournament. The batting superstar scored 675 runs in 16 matches at an average of 56.25 and a strike rate of 165.85, including a match-winning 75 in the final against Gujarat Titans.RCB all-rounder Krunal Pandya, who was part of the franchise's back-to-back title-winning campaigns in 2025 and 2026, spoke at length about Kohli's influence on the team and his own career during an interaction as Guest Sports Editor at The Times of India.Asked about Kohli's impact on the group, particularly when it comes to fitness and motivation, Krunal said the former India captain inspires everyone simply by the way he conducts himself."He leads by example. The hunger he still has to perform and win is inspiring. Sometimes people get satisfied after one or two successes, but then you see someone who has made excellence a habit. You can still see his love for the game. If that love and hunger remain constant, the sky is the limit."Krunal pointed to Kohli's response to adversity during IPL 2026 as an example of the champion mindset that has defined his career."After 11 games this season, he had two ducks and people asked me whether we were worried. I told them I was excited. He had two back-to-back zeros and then went out and scored a match-winning hundred. He inspires people in the dressing room and outside it through his actions," he said.For Krunal, Kohli's competitive spirit and obsession with winning have also served as a source of personal inspiration.When asked whether Kohli had influenced him personally, the all-rounder replied: "One hundred per cent. I am also someone who plays aggressive cricket and loves winning. That doesn’t mean I am a graceful loser, but I love winning.""We have similarities in the way we approach the game. Over the years, I have spent a lot of time with him. Sharing a dressing room with him has been special. He is a leader in every sense of the word. There is no doubt about that," he said.

The Ravens didn't just bring back Calais Campbell for what he can do on the field. They brought him back for everything that comes with him. Defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver smiled when discussing the veteran defensive lineman's return before explaining why Campbell remains such an important piece of Baltimore's culture."Calais Campbell is a force multiplier," Weaver said.Weaver believes Campbell's impact reaches far beyond the defensive line room and affects every part of the organization."He's one of those guys that doesn't just make our defensive line better; he makes our defense better," Weaver said.Campbell's leadership, professionalism, and presence have long been praised throughout the league, and Weaver said those qualities continue to show up every day."He makes our team better," Weaver said.The Ravens have added plenty of talent this offseason, but Weaver noted that leadership remains one of the most valuable traits a team can have."Anytime you can inject that type of energy and leadership into a locker room, that's a win," Weaver said.Campbell has spent years establishing himself as one of the NFL's most respected veterans, and Weaver believes his influence will continue to be felt throughout the Ravens' locker room in 2026."I love the guy to death," Weaver said.This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Why Anthony Weaver values Calais Campbell for Ravens

Credit: DaveBFTBChicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson seems like an intense guy. And it doesn’t just apply to his players, it applies to reporters at press conferences.We saw Johnson’s intensity and focus on multiple occasions last season, whether it was celebrating shirtless with his players in the locker room or some pugnacious halftime interviews. He even called out Troy Aikman when it came to defending star quarterback Caleb Williams.June should be one of the more relaxing times on the NFL calendar with teams slowly beginning the journey to get ready for the next season. With OTAs starting around the NFL, Ben Johnson met with the assembled press in Chicago for a brief media session. And because it’s the early season and people are still getting back into business mode, a phone started to ring that was presumably recording Johnson’s quotes at the podium.But the Bears head coach did not do what some coaches might and have a laugh or even pick it up to answer it. Not even the middle of the offseason was the right time for a light-hearted moment. Instead, JohnsonBen Johnson was pissed off during his press conference after a reporter’s phone repeatedly went off at the podium pic.twitter.com/I5E5X9pjyC— Dave (@davebftv) June 3, 2026The first time the phone went off, Johnson responded with a startled, “Oh, my.” He then followed with a more biting remark when it happened a second time, saying, “Does somebody want to take their phone so I’m not interrupted again.”It’s bad enough to have your phone go off in the middle of a press conference and get called out for it in front of the person you cover and your peers. It’s even worse when it’s a generic ringtone. That just adds insult to injury.The post Do not have your phone go off in a Ben Johnson press conference appeared first on Awful Announcing.

Donald Trump ranted about trans women in sports, executions in Iran, nuclear weapons, and other topics to kids who were at the Oval Office yesterday. “He’s the LeBron James of being weird around kids,” one commenter noted on X. Related Medical professor sounds alarm on Trump’s “deterioration almost week over week” A group of children visited the Oval Office yesterday – along with several professional athletes – as he signed a presidential memorandum bringing back the Presidential Fitness Test, a series of physical testing in public schools that ran from the 1950s until 2013, as former President Barack Obama’s administration chose to focus on individual progress instead of giving awards for “exceptional performance.” At the ceremony, though, Trump seemed unaware at times that kids were in the room. Insights for the LGBTQ+ community Subscribe to our briefing for insights into how politics impacts the LGBTQ+ community and more. Subscribe to our Newsletter today “In all fairness to the Democrats, when you have men in women’s sports, when you have open borders, when you have transgender mutilization – don’t listen to this, kids – of your children, of your children, transgender mutilization of your children, for everyone,” Trump said at one point. “When you have policies like that, you have to cheat. It’s the only way they can win. We shouldn’t allow them to cheat.” “Mutilization” is not a word, gender-affirming care is not mutilation, and Democrats are not trying to impose transitioning on “everyone” but instead keep gender-affirming care available to people who need and want access to it. Trump, surrounded by kids: "When you have transgender mutilization — don't listen to this, kids — of your children. For everyone. When you have policies like that, you have to cheat. We shouldn't allow them to cheat."— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar.com) 2026-05-05T15:51:02.040Z One of the children later told Trump that he wanted to get into powerlifting, which inspired Trump to fulminate about trans women in sports. “You’ll never compete against women in powerlifting,” Trump said. “Did you see they had a man powerlifter and he decided to go the opposite direction? Took a record, stood for 18 years, he beat it by 119 pounds, OK?” Trump then started doing his impression of a cis woman trying and failing to lift weights, which became a mainstay of his rallies over the past few years. “He was a failed powerlifter, and he went on the other side, and he decided he wanted to go into women’s sports, and he broke the record by 118 pounds,” he continued. “You think that’s fair?” It’s not clear what powerlifter he’s referring to. Trump often makes up stories to illustrate his points. “Are you a strong person?” Trump asked the child. “Do you think you can take me in a fight?” Trump to a kid who says he wants to be a weightlifter: "You'll never compete against women in powerlifting. Did you see they had a man powerlifter and he decided to go the opposite direction? Do you think you can take me in a fight?"— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar.com) 2026-05-05T15:59:00.358Z Then Trump said that absolutely no one supports “let[ting] men play in women’s sports.” “I’ve never had one person say it’s important we allow women to be challenged by men in women’s sports,” he continued. It is true that no one in the American political landscape supports allowing men into women’s sports, but he was referring to trans women in women’s sports – and misgendering them – and plenty of people do support them. It’s not clear how Trump has been in politics for as long as he has without learning that sometimes people disagree with him on policy issues. Trump to kids: "I've never had one person say it's important we allow women to be challenged by men in women's sports"— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar.com) 2026-05-05T15:13:53.078Z “I thought the whole ~*thing*~ the right was mad about for years was kids being made aware that some people transition,” Media Matters’ Ari Drennen wrote on X about the interactions. “Get the children away from him,” wrote independent journalist Juliet Jeske. But it wasn’t just his ranting about trans people that made people think that his comments were inappropriate for the event. He also discussed the executions of protestors in Iran. “You could have 200,000 people protesting and have five or six sick people with guns, and when they start shooting them right between the eyes, and you see a guy fall, and another one fall,” he said. “Don’t forget, they killed 42,000 people last month. 42,000 unarmed protestors who had no guns!” “A woman dropped dead with a bullet right there,” he said, pointing to his forehead. “Always right there. And then another woman dropped, and then the word started to spread, and then there was panic.” The Iran massacres of 2026 were real, but estimates of the number of dead range from 6000 to around 30,000. Trump, surrounded by kids: "You can have 200,000 people protesting and have five or six people with guns, and when they start shooting them right between the eyes … a woman dropped dead with a bullet right there."— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar.com) 2026-05-05T15:46:28.429Z He also discussed nuclear weapons. “These poor children, subjected to a lunatic’s ravings about nuclear war,” wrote former Chicago Tribune editor Mark Jacob. These poor children, subjected to a lunatic's ravings about nuclear war.— Mark Jacob (@markjacob.bsky.social) 2026-05-05T15:19:52.219Z Trump also discussed his belief that genetics determines more than science says they determine, including golf ability. Trump: "He's been a great golfer from the day he was born, if you believe in genetics. I do."— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar.com) 2026-05-05T15:06:37.621Z During the press event, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. spoke about the physical fitness test, and Trump seemed to struggle to stay awake. Online, some people said that they could see Education Secretary Linda McMahon kick Trump’s chair in a possible attempt to wake him up (in the last few seconds of the video below). Trump, surrounded by kids, is struggling to stay awake as RFK Jr drones on and on— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar.com) 2026-05-05T15:25:17.941Z “Some people disapprove but I think this is good practice for the kids to learn patience and empathy when their grandparents get dementia,” one Bluesky user wrote sarcastically as Trump expressed his contempt for former President Barack Obama to the kids. Some people disapprove but I think this is good practice for the kids to learn patience and empathy when their grandparents get dementia— The Popehat Fits Fine (@kenwhite.bsky.social) 2026-05-05T15:16:23.245Z — Missing The Point (@missingthept.bsky.social) 2026-05-05T16:06:33.714Z Have to question the judgment of parents who allow their children near that man.— Peace, Truth, Science (@mrchompchomp.bsky.social) 2026-05-05T15:10:22.471Z Late-night comedian Jimmy Kimmel joked about Trump‘s behavior at the event. “This man is insane, OK?” he said while discussing Trump’s “transgender mutilization” comments. “He made up a word, ‘mutilization,’ and he’s telling children about it. Next thing you know, he’ll be telling them his favorite story, the tale of the lady weightlifter.” “Very, very normal,” he continued. “Just a totally lucid, very rational, clear-minded, level-headed person sharing his thoughts on gender reassignment with a group of young kids. That’s our guy.” Subscribe to the LGBTQ Nation newsletter and be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

The latest prospectus by Elon Musk’s company underscores its confidence in its planned market debut. But skeptics see reasons for concern.

Before the war, the global market for liquefied natural gas was increasingly commanded by just two countries, one of which has now been hobbled.

Rehab updates are one of the biggest injury interests throughout the Detroit Lions' offseason. Social media has allowed for a glimpse into what players are up to. In recent days, there has been information about Alim McNeill, Kerby Joseph, and Brian Branch.Here is the excerpt on Alim McNeill from my Detroit Lions mailbag and June 2026 rehab updates:Alim McNeill on his ACL recoveryMcNeill met with the media on May 29 to discuss his ACL recovery. The full interview can be seen here at DetroitLions.com. Here are some key quotes from McNeill:"It takes time for stuff to come back. Some stuff was just not there yet. It’s here now.""It’s a night and day difference from last year and now.""Overall, strength and being able to connect the mind and body. My brain being able to know this leg is good and I can step and plant here. It’s more mental and neurological."ACL recoveries are very reliable, but usually players are not back to full ability in their first year back. There are mental and physical reasons for this.As McNeill mentioned, there is a mental hurdle that needs to be overcome. From a physical standpoint, MRI’s have shown that ACL healing can still be happening up to two years after surgical reconstruction.All signs point to McNeill having a big bounce back year in 2026.For more Lions coverage, follow us on X, @TheLionsWire, and give our Facebook page a like. Follow Jimmy on X, @JimmyLiaoMDThis article originally appeared on Lions Wire: 'Night and day difference': Lions' Alim McNeill updates ACL recovery

Bulinews Player of the Season Awards: Eintracht Frankfurt's Player of the SeasonEintracht Frankfurt finished eighth in the Bundesliga table, three points out of European competition with an 11-12-12 record and 44 points with a -4 goal differential.Among the leaders of their campaign in 2025/26 was 20-year-old attacking midfielder Can Uzun, in his second season with the club after arriving from 1. FC Nürnberg. The Turkish international, who will represent his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, was second in goal-assist contributions in the 2025/26 season, with eight goals and four assists through 21 appearances – only behind German forward Jonathan Burkardt, who registered thirteen goals and an assist in 22 matches. For Uzun himself, this was a major improvement from the four goals and an assist in 20 matches in the 2024/25 season.Uzun was tied for first in shot attempts with 41, level with Burkardt and Japanese winger Ritsu Dōan, but ranked second behind Burkardt in shots on target with 19 compared to 21. As he scored eight goals in the campaign, this gives him just over a 19.5 % shot-to-goal conversion rate. In addition, Uzun was instrumental in creating decent set pieces for Frankfurt, drawing 26 fouls - third in the squad in this category, with only Dōan (35) and German left-back Nathaniel Brown (33) ahead.STANDOUT PERFORMANCE:There was no better match for Uzun than a thriller at Borussia-Park against Borussia Mönchengladbach on September 27, in which Die Adler picked up a 6-4 victory. There were five different goalscorers for Frankfurt in the first 47 minutes on their six consecutive goals, and Uzun was one of them – connecting with Farès Chaïbi on a series of short passes on the left side of the box before tapping the ball past Moritz Nicolas and into the bottom-right corner.Uzun picked up an assist that day as well, threading a through ball from the edge of the box to the right side of the Gladbach penalty area - Burkardt got on the receiving end of the pass and while being pressured by Nico Elvedi and a charging Nicolas, knocked the ball into the bottom-left corner while on his way to the ground in the process.In that match, Uzun finished with four shots, drew four fouls, made 56 passes, and won the ball back on five occasions - the latter showcasing his defensive ability at the same time. Despite not being named Man of the Match - as Robin Koch won the award - Uzun was brilliant in his 90-minute performance, one of the best players in then-coach Dino Toppmöller’s 4-5-1.HONOURABLE MENTIONS:German left-back Nathaniel Brown was the only other player in the Frankfurt squad that got votes from the Bulinews team, with four. When Frankfurt played attacking football, the back line moved upfield, and Brown was among the main players to supply long-ball deliveries/crosses into the box - third in the team in this regard, with 45, only behind Dōan (111) and Chaïbi (91).Brown was also the best defender in terms of goal-assist contributions within the Frankfurt squad, and fifth in scoring overall – with four goals and four assists through 33 appearances as a very regular starter. The 22-year-old from Amberg, Bayern, will be representing Germany at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup tournament.

Milan join Roma in race for Crysencio SummervilleGian Piero Gasperini has made it clear on several occasions: he wants to strengthen the attack with at least a couple of ready and experienced wingers capable of permanently changing the Giallorossi’s attacking line. Among the players being monitored is West Ham’s Crysencio Summerville, recently relegated to the Championship after a difficult season. Competition for the Dutch winger, however, is fierce: according to TeamTalk.com, in England, Aston Villa and Tottenham are reportedly ready to meet West Ham’s demands, while in Italy, in addition to Roma, AC Milan are also reportedly interested.The Rossoneri, who will bid farewell to Rafael Leao in the upcoming transfer window, will be looking for a replacement of equal caliber, and Summerville could represent an interesting opportunity. The Hammers’ asking price is around €40 million, and reports from England indicate that the Rossoneri, despite not yet having officially announced a coach, sporting director, or CEO, are already making moves to sign the player.

The Kentucky Wildcats are having a first-time NBA Champion regardless of who wins the Finals. Keldon Johnson and De'Aaron Fox compete on the Spurs, while Karl-Anthony Towns is one of the premier talents on the New York Knicks. With homecourt advantage and the second-best regular-season record, the Spurs were expected to win the series coming into Game 1, but things might be turning around for the underdog Knicks. New York took Game 1 in San Antonio, and after being down double-digits in the second half, its fourth-quarter push was exactly what the doctor ordered. Towns played a key role in the victory. He contributed 18 points offensively, and those were some timely buckets. More importantly, he guarded Victor Wembanyama often and played terrific defense for the bulk of the game. Towns has taken some heat throughout his career for his lack of defensive effort, but he was terrific in the first game of the series. He was 7-for-15 shooting and added 12 rebounds as well, playing a total of 34 minutes. The Knicks won 105-95 and were a critical +17 in the second half. That said, Towns played so well that the Kentucky Men's Basketball X account (formerly known as Twitter) showed some love.KAT takes game one in San Antonio. pic.twitter.com/bwVVVUB7Cf— Kentucky Men’s Basketball (@KentuckyMBB) June 4, 2026Having been with the Minnesota Timberwolves for almost a decade, this isn't KAT's first trip to the playoffs, nor is he unfamiliar with the Spurs. He will be playing a key role throughout the remainder of the series, though. He averaged 20.1 points per game, the lowest amount since he was a rookie, but he still shot over 50% from the field and hauled in 11.8 rebounds per game. He's the best option to guard the Spurs' best player. He had a terrific first game, but the Spurs should punch back in Game 2, which tips off Friday in San Antonio. This article originally appeared on UK Wildcats Wire: Karl-Anthony Towns plays critical role in Game 1 NBA Finals win

Imagine you’re drafting tomorrow in a 12-team PPR league. Who would be the top three bust candidates to fade in the second round? The following is based on current average draft positions (ADPs).Can De’Von Achane keep crushing it? His overall-13 ADP suggests “yes,” as does his impressive 20.2 points per game last season. But his 2026 outlook is more cloudy. The Dolphins’ passing attack could be an absolute mess. They’ve put a lot of their faith in a mostly untested quarterback, several rookie wideouts, and a bunch of receiver reclamation projects. This team is going nowhere this year, and they have no incentive to run Achane into the ground after signing him to a new four-year deal.Saquon Barkley (overall-14 ADP) also brings yellow flags. Last summer, I repeatedly warned readers and podcast listeners about why he was a clear bust of a candidate. Although he’s moderately safer heading into this season, it’s all relative. He’ll turn 30 during the playoffs and racked up 346 touches last year. It’s a concerning combination.Finally, why does Nico Collins have an overall-23 ADP? No doubt, he’s a reliable fantasy option as Houston’s #1 wideout. But at 27 years old, he’s probably no longer ascending. 2025 second-rounder Jayden Higgins is. So is 2025 third-rounder Jaylin Noel. Anything they get from Tank Dell will be gravy. Collins simply doesn’t have the mammoth ceiling that managers deserve at that price point.This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Top three bust candidates in the second round of fantasy drafts

An Israeli flag hangs on a destroyed building in southern Lebanon as seen from northern Israel, Thursday June 4, 2026. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)2026-06-04T12:27:56Z BEIRUT (AP) — Hezbollah on Thursday rejected the latest ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and the Lebanese government, demanding a complete Israeli withdrawal. The announcement came as Israeli strikes killed at least four people, according to local authorities, and a U.N. peacekeeper was killed in the crossfire.Hezbollah leader Naim Kassem, in a written statement read on TV, said the agreement’s demand that Hezbollah fighters leave southern Lebanon under fire would mean “surrender, defeat and achieving the enemy’s goals.”“What we are concerned about is an end to the aggression, ceasefire and Israel’s withdrawal,” he said. “We did not make any commitment to any party to stop resisting as long as there is occupation,” he added.The ongoing fighting in Lebanon, where Israeli forces have seized large swaths of the south, threatens efforts to end the Iran war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key transit point for oil and gas whose closure has jolted the world economy. Iran has demanded that any lasting truce extend to Lebanon. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who faces elections later this year, wants to press ahead with Israel’s offensive until Hezbollah no longer poses a threat. Israeli troops have seized around a fifth of Lebanon since Hezbollah began launching rocket and drone attacks in solidarity with Iran days into the wider war.U.S. President Donald Trump, who faced a rare rebuke from Congress on Wednesday, has sought to downplay the diplomatic deadlock and the failure of declared ceasefires to end the fighting, telling reporters that in the Middle East, “a ceasefire is when you’re shooting in a more moderate manner.” Peacekeeper killed in crossfireA Serbian peacekeeper was killed, and two other peacekeepers were wounded, when a mortar struck their location near Marjayoun, a Christian-majority town that has seen intense fighting, according to the U.N. mission, known as UNIFIL, and Serbia’s Defense Ministry.Neither said whether the mortar fire came from Israel or Hezbollah.Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency said a drone strike killed a motorcyclist and wounded four people in the village of Maaroub. It said airstrikes on the village of Sohmor in the Bekaa Valley, in eastern Lebanon, killed three people and wounded others. It also reported airstrikes in other areas of the south.There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military, which has warned people not to go into parts of southern Lebanon where it says it is striking Hezbollah facilities. Read More Fighting has raged despite declared ceasefiresHezbollah resumed its rocket fire days after Israel and the United States launched their surprise attack on Iran on Feb. 28. Before then, Israel had regularly carried out strikes in Lebanon against what it said were militant targets, often killing civilians, despite an earlier truce reached in 2024. In the southern city of Sidon, many residents reacted to the ceasefire announcement with skepticism, saying previous agreements had failed to stop the violence.“Every few days a ceasefire is announced, but people keep getting killed,” said Mayada Hijazi.“It’s all talk and no action,” said Salah Nassab. “We keep going back to our homes and then we get displaced again, back and forth. We’re very tired.” In the latest fighting, Israeli troops have pushed further into southern Lebanon than at any time since the end of Israel’s 1982-2000 occupation. It now occupies arouns a fifth of the country. More than 3,500 people have been killed in Lebanon and over 1.2 million have been displaced. The fighting has killed 27 Israeli soldiers and three civilians.The ceasefire came from ongoing Israeli-Lebanese talksThe latest declared ceasefire came about through U.S. brokered talks held between Israel and Lebanon’s government, which accuses Hezbollah of dragging the country into war and had made efforts to disarm it before the latest hostilities.The ceasefire does not officially include Hezbollah and calls for Lebanon’s armed forces to take control of security zones in Lebanon from which the militants would be banned. Hezbollah has previously said it will only adhere to a ceasefire if Israel halts its attacks and begins withdrawing from the country. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Thursday called the new agreement “the last chance to enter a final and comprehensive ceasefire.” He said Lebanon was ready to implement Wednesday’s deal once he receives responses from relevant factions in Lebanon, including Hezbollah. The United States — and Trump himself — would determine how and when the deal is implemented, he told journalists on Thursday.The agreement states that Hezbollah “is not just an enemy of Israel and an enemy of America, but that it is an enemy of Lebanon” and calls for dismantling it. The government has promised to do so in the past but does not have the capabilities to disarm Hezbollah by force.The latest agreement did not say when Israel would withdraw from southern Lebanon but said the U.S. would support the Lebanese army as it works to assert control in areas where Hezbollah has long wielded power. Iran has demanded a durable Lebanon ceasefireA top Iranian general on Thursday reiterated Tehran’s demand for a full ceasefire in Lebanon and called for Israel to pull troops back to where they were when the wider war began. At that time, Israel held five strategic points along the border.“Supporting the resistance in Lebanon is the duty of all of us, and eliminating Israel from the region is an achievable goal for Muslims,” Esmail Qaani, the head of the Revolutionary Guard’s elite Quds Force, was quoted as saying by the semiofficial Fars and Tasnim news agencies.As diplomatic efforts have repeatedly faltered, Iran and the U.S. have traded fire in and around the Strait of Hormuz, which remains effectively closed. Before the war, around a fifth of the world’s oil and gas, as well as large shipments of fertilizer and other goods, passed through the narrow waterway.The U.S. has targeted what it says are Iranian threats to commercial shipping and its own forces, while Iran has launched missile and drone attacks on Gulf states hosting U.S. troops. A strike Wednesday on a commercial airport in Kuwait that is also used by American forces for logistics and refueling killed an Indian national and wounded more than 60 people, including passengers and workers. Iran denied carrying out the strike. ___ Gambrell reported from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Metz from Ramallah, West Bank. Associated Press reporter Malak Harb in Beirut contributed. JON GAMBRELL Gambrell is the news director for the Gulf and Iran for The Associated Press. He has reported from each of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, Iran and other locations across the world since joining the AP in 2006. twitter instagram mailto SAM METZ Metz covers Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and points beyond for The Associated Press. mailto

Her popular graphic novel series, published in the early 2000s, followed an Iranian girl through the Islamic Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War.

WASHINGTON—Saying it had been forced to take action against networks that refused to change their conduct, the Federal Communications Commission announced Monday it would investigate broadcasters of TV shows where the mom has a job. “It has come to our attention that the public airwaves have been used to transmit indecent images of female characters who have both children and jobs—and in some cases are even a family’s breadwinner,” said FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr, claiming such programs were not in compliance with new guidelines that require fictional mothers to be breastfeeding off-screen for at least two-thirds of an episode’s duration. “It is a violation of broadcast codes for these women to be shown outside the home at all, unless it is at a grocery store or a church. Moving forward, every mother who appears on camera must be holding a child in every single frame or we will revoke the licenses of the offending stations.” Carr added that the FCC would also levy fines against any show portraying young girls attending school. The post FCC To Investigate TV Shows Where The Mom Has Job appeared first on The Onion.

EAST LANSING, MI—Calling the 21-year-old’s replies to his emails and text messages “rote” and “overly formal,” local professor Lowell Sterbenz told reporters Friday he was “pretty sure” student Evelyn Atwater was using AI to refuse his sexual advances. “It really is a shame with these undergrads these days,” said the 63-year-old Sterbenz, an art history professor at Michigan State University, noting that Atwater’s written responses to his invitations were remarkably similar to those of other young women who had rejected him this semester, including two who were in her class. “The previous generations never would have turned down a cozy dinner or one-on-one weekend getaway to my Traverse City lake house like this. ‘While I do enjoy drinking wine, I unfortunately have other obligations that night’ is just so plainly robotic. It’s got to be ChatGPT. Who talks like that? A human would say, ‘That sounds amazing, Lowell. I can’t wait to see that Delvaux you have hanging in the bedroom. You’re the best mentor ever.’ Do these young people really have no shame?” Sterbenz added that his suspicions regrettably left him with no choice but to report Atwater to the Office of Academic Integrity. The post College Professor Pretty Sure Student Using AI To Refuse Advances appeared first on The Onion.

Wedding vows were exchanged Sunday under the eyes of God, despite the fact that He wasn’t invited. The post Alisa Schonfeld and Michael Coopersmith appeared first on The Onion.

The post Kash Patel’s Eyes Fall Out appeared first on The Onion.

LONDON—Bolting upright in bed in a cold sweat, actor Tom Holland reportedly woke up from a terrible nightmare Thursday in which the Jenners almost got him. “Oh my God, it was awful—they were bearing down on me, and I screamed and screamed, but no sound came out,” said Holland, who was still trembling as he recalled the “petrifying” dream about reality stars Kylie, Kendall, and Kris Jenner to his partner Zendaya in vivid, ghastly detail. “I was on a red carpet and you were there, but it wasn’t you. You had their heads. And then I looked down and I was wearing a chartreuse pleather suit, and then you were also wearing a chartreuse pleather suit. And then Jacob Elordi appeared, and he said, ‘You go ahead. I’ll hold them off.’” At press time, sources reported that Zendaya was attempting to comfort Tom Holland by assuring him there was no such thing as Los Angeles. The post Tom Holland Wakes Up From Terrible Nightmare Where Jenners Almost Got Him appeared first on The Onion.

It looks like it was ripped out of a pricey beach resort. READ MORE...

It’s ridiculously smart. READ MORE...

Veteran quarterback Tyrod Taylor joined the Green Bay Packers ahead of the 2025 NFL season, bringing with him a steady presence and valuable postseason experience. His résumé includes a Super Bowl XLVII victory with the Baltimore Ravens over the San Francisco 49ers, giving Green Bay an additional veteran voice with championship pedigree in the locker room.For Taylor, reaching the pinnacle of an NFL career came early, during just his second season in the league. As the years have passed, however, he has gained a deeper understanding of how challenging it is to climb back to that level, developing a greater appreciation for the grind required to return to the sport’s highest stage.Tyrod Taylor on the Green Bay Packers Super Bowl dreamsJan 4, 2026; Orchard Park, New York, USA; New York Jets quarterback Tyrod Taylor (2) warms up before the game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn ImagesAddressing the media on Wednesday, Taylor spoke about what it takes to reach Super Bowl contention, stressing the level of commitment required throughout a long season. He also voiced his belief that the Packers have the right mix of talent and mentality in the locker room to realistically chase a championship.“You definitely try to look for teams that have the best talent, but that doesn’t always win championships,” Taylor remarked via Packer Reports Zach Jacobson.Oct 29, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants quarterback Tyrod Taylor (2) runs off the field after an injury during the first half against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports“It’s about the nucleus, the chemistry, and obviously staying healthy. Every team at this time of year feels they have the pieces to do so. It’s about putting in the work, day in and day out, keeping the right mindset. And I think the guys in this locker room have the right mindset to be able to achieve what we all want to achieve.”Across his NFL journey, Taylor has suited up for several teams, including the Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, Cleveland Browns, Los Angeles Chargers, Houston Texans, New York Giants, and New York Jets. Over the course of his career, he has thrown for 13,033 yards, totaling 73 touchdowns against 34 interceptions, while completing 61.8 percent of his passes.

After the 2022 World Cup had 32 teams, the 2026 World Cup has 48. However, there were still some World Cup stalwarts that missed out despite the tournament’s expansion.Here’s a look at the best teams you won’t see playing in this summer’s World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. And that list is topped by a perennial power that is going through an unprecedented period of malaise.ItalyIt’s almost unfathomable that the 2026 World Cup is the third straight tournament without the Italians.A nation that has four World Cups to its name and one just 20 years ago has not made the World Cup since 2014. The perennial contenders have absolutely cratered. It wasn’t that long ago that Italy entered every World Cup with a plausible path to the title. Instead, the Italians’ unsolvable equation has simply become about how to qualify.Italy missed out on this World Cup thanks to a dreadful performance in Bosnia and Herzegovina during one of the UEFA finals to make the tournament. After finishing a distant second to Norway in Group I of World Cup qualifying, Italy was sent to the playoffs, where it had to win two games to make the newly expanded World Cup.Play 2026 Soccer Pick 'Em with FOX One and make your picks for the world's biggest soccer tournamentThe Italians were drawn into a four-team bracket with Wales, Northern Ireland and Bosnia and Herzegovina, who won the right to host the final with a win over Wales. The Bosnians beat the Welsh in penalty kicks, while Italy eased past Northern Ireland 2-0.Everything fell apart in the playoff final, however. Moise Kean put Italy up 1-0 in the 15th minute, but Alessandro Bastoni was given a straight red card in the 41st minute for a desperate tackle. With Italy down to 10 men for the rest of the match, a Bosnian equalizer was inevitable. It finally happened in the 79th minute before the game went to penalties. There, the Italians scored just once, before Bosnia closed it out in the fourth round of kicks.Gianluigi Donnarumma of Italy reacts after the Italians were eliminated from the 2026 World Cup qualifications in penalty kicks vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina.Image Photo Agency via Getty ImagesPolandThe 2026 World Cup could have been star striker Robert Lewandowski’s final moment on the world stage. Instead, like Italy, Poland went out in the UEFA playoffs.Poland had qualified for each of the past two World Cups and made the Round of 16 in 2022 after finishing second in Group C to Argentina. But the Polish finished three points behind the Netherlands in Group G of UEFA’s qualifying.That sent Poland into a four-team bracket with Ukraine, Sweden and Albania. After beating Albania 2-1, Poland played Sweden for the chance to make the World Cup. But Sweden, which had just two ties in eight World Cup qualifying games and made the playoffs thanks to its Nations League performance, won the final 3-2 to make the World Cup.Lewandowski, 37, made it seem like his future with the Polish team was over after the loss to Sweden. He hasn’t officially said he’s done, but it’s hard to see how he will be around for the 2030 World Cup if Poland qualifies.The greatest player in Poland history, Lewandowski has 89 goals in 166 appearances for his country. And the next chapter of his professional career could come in the United States. Lewandowski joined Barcelona from Bayern Munich after the 2021-22 season and is not returning to the La Liga champions. Chicago Fire coach Gregg Berhalter has said he wants Lewandowski on his team. Will that happen after the World Cup?Costa RicaOne of CONCACAF’s World Cup stalwarts will be conspicuously absent this summer. Costa Rica has qualified for six World Cups in the past 36 years but failed to qualify for 2026. The 2022 World Cup was the fifth time Costa Rica had qualified over the last six World Cup cycles.Twelve years ago, Costa Rica shocked the world by winning the Group of Death in Brazil, which also included Uruguay, Italy and England. The Costa Ricans beat both Uruguay and Italy and tied with England to top the group with seven points.After making both the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, Costa Rica’s hopes of a fourth-straight appearance disappeared during qualifying. Grouped with Haiti, Honduras and Nicaragua, Costa Rica got seven points across six games. A 1-0 loss to the Haitians was the team’s undoing, as the opposite result would have won the group for Costa Rica and prevented Haiti from making the World Cup.DenmarkYet another UEFA team that went out in the playoffs made this list. The Danes made their first World Cup appearance in 1986 and appeared in five since missing the 1990 and 1994 tournaments.In 2020, Denmark finished third in the Euros after finishing second in Group B to Belgium and making the knockout rounds on goal differential over Finland and Russia. Two years later, Denmark was eliminated from the World Cup in the group stage before being eliminated in the Round of 16 in Euro 2024.Penalty kicks kept the Danes out of the 2026 World Cup. Denmark was the favorite in Path D of UEFA’s playoffs and had an easy 4-0 win over North Macedonia in the semifinals. However. Denmark tied Czechia 2-2 in the final and lost 3-1 on penalties to miss out on the World Cup.NigeriaOne of the modern African World Cup stalwarts will be conspicuously absent in the United States.Nigeria had made each of the past three World Cups and six of the last seven tournaments before failing to qualify in 2026. Nigeria was drawn into Pot C in the CAF qualifiers but also had South Africa and Benin in its group. South Africa scored 18 points over 10 games, while both Nigeria and Benin had 17.Nigeria made it to the second round of qualifying thanks to a plus-7 goal differential. After a 4-1 win in extra time over Gabon, Nigeria met DR Congo for the chance to advance to the inter-confederation playoffs for the World Cup.Like so many others on this list, penalty kicks were the Nigerians’ demise. The teams tied 1-1 after 120 minutes and DR Congo won 4-3 on penalty kicks.CameroonThe African nation with the most World Cup appearances won’t be in the 2026 World Cup.Cameroon has made eight World Cups and first qualified in 1982 as an independent nation. But the Indomitable Lions are missing just their third World Cup since 1986.Cameroon finished second in Group D of CAF’s qualifying to Cape Verde. It wasn’t all that close, either. Cape Verde won the group by four points despite Cameroon’s better goal differential. That forced Cameroon to the African playoffs, where the DR Congo took out the Cameroonians. An added-time goal by center back Chancel Mbemba gave DR Congo a 1-0 win and eliminated Cameroon from World Cup contention.

The New York Islanders may lose their captain to free agency, and the New Jersey Devils play a major role in the situation.Anders Lee’s seven year contract is up on July 1st and he’s set to become an unrestricted free agent. The Islanders and Lee have been here before. However, at the 11th hour back in 2019, Lee and the Islanders agreed to terms on an extension to keep the captain on Long Island.Yet, this isn’t Lou Lamoriello’s Islanders anymore. It’s Mathieu Darche in the GM chair these days. And now Lee and the Islanders are back at it in this game of chicken.According to NHL insider Pierre LeBrun, Lee and his agent are preparing to hit free agency on July 1st.“Looking like Anders Lee is preparing to hit free agency,” LeBrun posted on X. “His agent Neil Sheehy met with Isles GM Mathieu Darche today. Both sides far apart. The Isles intend to keep trying, they want their captain back. But Lee appears most likely headed to market at the moment. Obviously things could change between now and July 1.”Thus, if all else fails, Lee will walk to unrestricted free agency in a few weeks, and the Devils are partially to blame.USA TODAY Sports via Reuters ConnectOne of Tom Fitzgerald‘s parting gifts to New Jersey was the miracle he pulled off when unloading Ondrej Palat‘s contract in a Devils trade in January.Palat was convinced to waive his trade protection to move to Long Island—with a 2026 third-round draft pick and a 2027 sixth-round draft pick attached—and the Devils received Maxim Tsyplakov in return.Now, the Islanders are on the hook for one more year of Palat at $6 million against the salary cap, as opposed to Tsyplakov’s $2.25 million.Darche didn’t only dance with the Devils, however.He later traded for Brayden Schenn at the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline, buying the St. Louis Blues captain who has two years remaining on his contract with a $6.5 million cap hit in exchange for Jonathan Drouin, goalie prospect Marcus Gidlof, and two 2026 draft picks (a first-round pick via Colorado and a third-round pick).On July 1st, the Islanders have $10,684,584 in cap space. Lee is their most significant free agent, although Darche apparently has other plans.Yet, the Islanders wouldn’t be in this predicament had they prioritized Lee over Palat and Schenn—two players you can say with certainty Lee is more valuable than.Instead of a combined $6.25 million cap hit between Tsyplakov and Drouin, the Islanders are paying Palat and Schenn a whopping $12.5 million next season.The $6.25 million difference is quite ironic given AFP Analytics projects Lee’s next contract to be worth $6,607,466 million amid a three-year deal.One can assume Lee would be willing to sign a hometown discount to bring that number down a bit, but you get the idea.Lee—the Islanders captain since 2018-19—is a consistent 20-plus goal scorer as a career-long Islander. The 35-year old is actually a good fit for the Devils if they can land him as a UFA at the right price, although that seems unlikely if he’s seemingly priced himself out on Long Island where they have similar cap space to New Jersey.Heading into a summer with a weak crop of free agents, Lee is bound to get paid. This will be an interesting situation to watch develop, especially because the Devils’ fingerprints are all over it.Related HeadlinesDevils Daily: Latest Trade Chatter; Trocheck Interest; Clear LessonsWhat Devils Can Learn from Stanley Cup FinalistsDevils Legend Named GM of Czech National Team

One of the New York Knicks’ biggest supporters won’t be in the stands when the team returns home. Former Knicks forward Charles Oakley remains banned from Madison Square Garden despite pleas from both Michael Jordan and Adam Silver, according to NBA reporter Rachel Nichols. Prior to Game 1 of the Finals, which the Knicks won 105-95, Silver revealed he and Jordan appealed to team owner James Dolan to let Oakley back into The Garden. The Knicks owner reportedly was not convinced, per Nichols. "Adam Silver says both he and Michael Jordan tried their best to broker peace between Charles Oakley and James Dolan, but neither was successful. Oakley has been at Knicks road games during this playoff run but remains banned from The Garden."For years, Oakley was one of the Knicks’ most fervent supporters. But that changed in 2017, when he reportedly went after Dolan during a game. Play was momentarily stopped after Oakley shoved a team security guard. He was later arrested and charged with assault and trespassing. A few days later, Oakley was reportedly banned from Madison Square Garden. Dolan did a rare public interview at the time, insisting Oakley’s ban was “not necessarily a lifetime ban.” Despite that, the former forward hasn’t appeared at The Garden since, and has only attended Knicks road games during the playoffs. Oakley’s feud with Dolan started years before his ban from MSG. In 2015, Oakley revealed he was frustrated with Dolan after the owner refused to meet with Oakley. Oakley spent 10 of his 19 NBA seasons with the Knicks. He excelled as a defensive enforcer, and made one All-Star team during his 10 years in New York. The Knicks made the playoffs every single season during Oakley’s run. Following Wednesday’s win, the Knicks are three games away from winning the championship. With the team set to return home Monday for Game 3, there’s no better time for Dolan to bury the hatchet and get Oakley back in the seats.Despite urging from Jordan and Silver, the Knicks’ owner doesn’t see it that way.