The summer has officially begun, which means recruiting has taken centerstage in the college football world. Texas is in the center of it, including being in the middle of a major recruiting weekend. However, today’s headline is around a player not currently on campus. Briceson Thrower, three-star WR from Forney, Texas is committing tonight at 7 p.m. CT on CBS Sports. NEWS: 3 ⭐️ WR Briceson Thrower set to announce his college commitment on the CBS Sports College Football YouTube Channel. 🔥Thrower is down to 5 school, Illinois, Ohio State, Texas, Texas Tech and Texas A&M. 👀 pic.twitter.com/DWkNiOy1NX— 247Sports (@247Sports) June 5, 2026Thrower is deciding between Texas, Illinois, Ohio State, Texas Tech and Texas A&M. Of those, it seems it’s really a Longhorns-Illini battle for the pass catcher. Thrower, despite being a three-star, is highly regarded in the industry and would be the perfect addition beside Easton Royal in this WR class. The good news for Texas is it seems they are in the catbird’s seat to earn his commitment tonight. If Texas earns the commitment, they are getting a lengthy, high potential player. He has run track throughout high school, posting a 23.31 200-yard dash as a sophomore. In his junior season, he reeled in 32 catches for 529 yards and 5 TDs. Thrower shines in 1-on-1 coverage, using his length and hands to consistently win 50/50 balls. As the nuances of the game continue to develop, this could be a special player for Texas. Briceson Thrower said let’s get it started early. The 2027 WR Texas target blew past the defender for a score on the very first play. pic.twitter.com/Y3QCCbjnUT— Charlie Williams (@CoachWilliamsII) March 28, 2026One wrinkle to this process is his upcoming schedule. Despite a commitment coming tonight, he is still scheduled to visit Illinois next weekend and then Austin shortly after. Now, those plans could change and the Illinois visit be canceled, but that’s unknown. I would argue whether they are cancelled or not, this commitment will stick after tonight. No matter what, if Texas gets good news tonight, the WR class adds a high-upside depth piece alongside the star power of Easton Royal.This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Commitment coming for Texas? WR target set to make decision tonight

Rangers sign former Rockies All-Star Game MVP catcher originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Texas Rangers added a catcher with 12 years of Major League Baseball experience on Saturday. According to a report from Daniel Alvarez-Montes of El Extrabase, the AL West club signed the 2023 All-Star Game MVP to a Major League contract. Right-handed hitter Elias Diaz joins the Rangers after recently being waived by the Kansas City Royals. In 10 games with the Royals, the 35-year-old managed to hit .227 with two home runs and a .852 OPS in 23 trips to the plate. For the time being, Texas will carry three backstops on its roster. They already have Danny Jansen and Kyle Higashioka splitting time behind the plate. MORE: Yankees’ Ryan McMahon problem has a $25 million release solution"He has a good arm and has graded as a solid receiving catcher in recent years after struggling with pitch framing early in his career," Anthony Franco of MLB Trade Rumors wrote about Diaz's potential impact with the Rangers.Diaz hit a personal best 18 homers with the Rockies in 2021 and owns an 81 OPS+ and 5.9 bWAR in 840 career games. More MLB news:5 reasons to believe in Jordan Walker's breakout for CardinalsEx-MLB GM projects White Sox to sell at trade deadline despite 2026 successTarik Skubal being traded by Tigers would help him in free agencyCubs’ cost to trade for Tarik Skubal from Tigers revealed by ex-MLB GMPhillies extending Cristopher Sanchez to his $107 million deal was genius

The police took dozens of people into custody this week after N.B.A. finals watch parties in Midtown Manhattan grew unruly.

TimesofIndia.com in Mullanpur: On the eve of the one-off Test against Afghanistan, head coach Gautam Gambhir had said that Sai Sudharsan would get a "longer rope" and that the management had complete faith in him to succeed at No. 3. Sudharsan, who received two reprieves but missed out on what would have been his maiden Test hundred, scored a gritty 81.India's No. 3 credited head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill for their unconditional support."I mean, it gives so much freedom," Sai told reporters when asked about the vote of confidence from the management."It gives so much certainty mentally when the coach, the team and the captain support you, back you and want you to do well for the team and win games. So it is such an honour in the first place. And obviously, it gives a lot of freedom for you to express yourself and do what you can do best rather than thinking about scoring runs or wondering whether you will play the next game. Those kinds of thoughts never arise because you get great freedom from the team," he added.Sai Sudharsan was graceful and edgy in equal measure during an attractive innings. He showcased his strengths, with most of his 13 boundaries coming through the mid-wicket region. Sudharsan also shared a 139-run partnership for the second wicket with KL Rahul.The 24-year-old also spoke about his partnership with the veteran opener."The conversation was more about understanding what was happening, understanding how the wicket was behaving and who was bowling what. We were not thinking about taking a bigger role and batting deep. It was more about understanding the conditions. KL gives so much composure when I bat with him, and he gives a lot of certainty. It really helps as a batter. He reads the game very well and shares a lot of useful insights that we can use during the innings," he said.The left-hander, who struggled against spin during the South Africa series, also opened up about the challenge and the mental and technical adjustments he had to make in preparation for this game, especially after playing IPL cricket for two and a half months."Mentally and tactically, for me, it was more about believing in and trusting my abilities as a batter. Tactically, we had a lot of conversations about what we could do to disturb the bowlers and what options we could take to keep the scoreboard moving, so that the pressure remained on them rather than just soaking it up and batting for time," he said.

Leeds United’s 15-Goal Loan Star Wanted By Newly Promoted PL Club Permanently: What’s The Right Option For Farke?Joe Gelhardt returned to Hull City on a season-long loan last summer, having initially joined on a six-month arrangement in January 2025. The 24-year-old forward from Liverpool produced arguably the finest campaign of his career at the MKM Stadium, finishing with 15 goals and five assists across all competitions in the 2025/26 season. He scored the second goal in Hull’s 2-0 Championship play-off semi-final victory at Millwall before coming off the bench at Wembley as the Tigers beat Middlesbrough to secure top-flight football.Leeds United Transfer Stance Over GelhardtHull City have made their desire to sign the attacker permanently very clear. Hull City sporting director Jarred Dublin told The Yorkshire Post that the club’s owner, himself, and the manager had all been vocal about their wish to keep Gelhardt, regardless of which division the club found themselves in. According to The Athletic’s Beren Cross, however, Leeds are in no hurry to rush the deal through for Hull. Cross indicated that Leeds want to survey the wider market first, see which other clubs register interest, and establish what fee they can realistically command before making any decision.Leeds United‘s asking price is reported to sit between £3 million and £5 million, supported by his strong loan performances, interest from multiple clubs including Rangers, and his contract situation entering its final year. Gelhardt is due back at Elland Road this summer for talks, with one year left on his contract from July onwards.Leeds United Must Think Beyond SentimentHULL, ENGLAND – MAY 02: Joe Gelhardt of Hull City challenges José Córdoba of Norwich City during the Sky Bet Championship match between Hull City and Norwich City at MKM Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Hull, England. (Photo by Ashley Allen/Getty Images)This is where the story gets genuinely interesting. Leeds United would be making a mistake by rushing a deal to Hull simply because both clubs want it done. A forward who scored 15 Championship goals and contributed to a play-off promotion has real market value, and that value only grows with every passing week of Hull’s Premier League preparations drawing attention his way.Leeds initially sought £3 to £4 million for Gelhardt last summer, a figure that could now rise considerably after his prolific season, with any fee above £1 million generating profit on the former Wigan Athletic youngster. Sitting tight, letting interest build from other Premier League and Championship sides, and then negotiating from a position of strength makes complete financial sense. Gelhardt himself has been open about his preference, telling Hull Live it is “pretty clear” what he wants, but a player’s desire alone does not set a transfer fee.Leeds United should sell, and sell well. A fee closer to £5 million protects the club’s financial position while giving a popular player the move he clearly wants. Holding firm and maximising that return is not harsh, it is simply smart business.

Minnesota (9-2) defeated Seattle (3-9), 88-68, on Saturday in the WNBA Commissioner's Cup. The game was contested at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 10,801 were in attendance.Former Lady Vol Jordan Horston started for the Storm and played 18 minutes. She scored seven points and converted 2-of-3 field goal attempts, 1-of-2 three-point attempts and 2-of-2 free throw attempts. The 6-foot-2 forward also recorded three rebounds and two assists.Minnesota forward Natasha Howard led all scorers with 27 points.Horston played at Tennessee from 2019-23. She was a two-time All-SEC First-team selection and a two-time Associated Press and WBCA All-America honorable mention.Horston appeared in 114 games, including 91 starts, for the Lady Vols, recording 1,145 points, 731 rebounds, 455 assists, 109 blocks and 163 steals.She was named to the 2023 WNBA All-Rookie Team and was the No. 9 overall selection in the 2023 WNBA draft. Horston went to Tennessee from Columbus Africentric Early College High School in Columbus, Ohio.More: Former Lady Vols on 2026 WNBA rostersFollow Vols Wire on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).This article originally appeared on Vols Wire: Jordan Horston starts for Storm at Minnesota in WNBA game

Maja Chwalinska has climbed 93 places in the world as a result of her run to the French Open final [Getty Images]Maja Chwalinska's French Open ended exactly three weeks after it started - but her journey to the brink of a first Grand Slam title began long before that.A former Australian Open junior doubles finalist alongside Iga Swiatek, Chwalinska has spoken openly about the depression that led her to take an indefinite break from tennis early in her professional career.In the build-up to Roland Garros, she was playing events on the second tier of the women's tour across Europe.Her French Open campaign began in the first round of qualifying on 18 May. Nine wins later, only teenager Mirra Andreeva stood in the way of Chwalinska becoming just the second qualifier to win a Grand Slam singles title in the Open era.It was not to be for Chwalinska, who fell 6-3 6-2 to Andreeva on Saturday, but finishing runner-up will have a profound effect on her life and career.She will climb from 114th in the world to a new high of 21st on Monday, while her Roland Garros prize money of 1.4m euros (£1.21m) is almost double what she had previously earned in her entire career."It's been 18 years of hard work, patience and perseverance," Chwalinska said."I had to go through so much to be in this position. Life is weird sometimes and you've just got to do your thing and believe it will click someday, and I'm happy that it did."It is definitely an unforgettable three weeks for me. I'll never forget it."Andreeva wins French Open as Chwalinska fairytale endsThe final against Russian eighth seed Andreeva was only Chwalinska's 20th match at WTA Tour-level and the first time she had faced a top-10 player in her career.She began the tournament without a kit sponsor, while a Polish drinks company had to step in and help cover her accommodation costs for an extended stay in the French capital.Now a Grand Slam finalist, the attention on her is sure to grow."It will be different but I think and hope I'll adapt," she said."I'm definitely very grateful for this time but it's in the past now. I just need to continue to stay present and give my all to be a better player every day."Seven-time French Open women's singles champion Chris Evert told TNT Sports that Chwalinska's achievement in reaching the final was "just as impressive as Andreeva winning her first Slam".The American added: "I think she ran out of steam a bit today, but she came out of nowhere."I loved watching her play - she was entertaining, versatile and she created shots we haven't seen since the 1970s."Hewett loses final to Oda for second straight yearGB's Patten beaten in French Open doubles finalChwalinska has climbed to the fringes of the world's top 20 with her Roland Garros run but she is not guaranteed to make the main draw at Wimbledon as she was outside the top 100 at the cut-off time for entries.It means she will again have to go through qualifying - unless she is awarded a main-draw wildcard for the tournament, which begins on 29 June.Wildcards are usually reserved for British players, those who have performed well previously on grass and notable high-profile players.France's Lois Boisson, who was ranked 361st in the world when she reached the French Open semi-finals last year, did not get a wildcard and subsequently lost in the first round of qualifying.Asked about the prospect of a SW19 wildcard, Chwalinska said: "I don't expect it, but I'll see. I will treat it as a challenge."It's a new surface. I don't have much time, but I'll give my all and we'll see."But I'm excited. Grass is always a nice kind of change."Live scores, results and order of playGet tennis news sent straight to your phone

Zadok Yohanna has scored five goals for AIK Stockholm this season [Getty Images]Brighton have agreed to sign winger Zadok Yohanna from AIK Stockholm in a deal worth £21.5m.The 18-year-old Nigerian is set to join the Seagulls on a five-year contract in a move which will be finalised when the summer transfer window opens on Monday, 15 June. "I'm looking forward to working with Zadok," said Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler. "Having seen his games and his attributes, he is a player that can impact games in the final third."He's still young, and will need time to adapt to the club and Premier League, but he's an exciting player to watch and he brings the kind of creativity we know our fans will enjoy."Yohanna joined AIK Stockholm from the Ikon Allah Football Academy in Nigeria and has five goals and four assists in 18 appearances for the Swedish club since he debut in August 2025.Latest Brighton news, analysis and fan viewsAsk about Brighton - what do you want to know?

Model and actress Cara Delevingne said she is “very happy” to call herself a lesbian despite long struggling with the concept of labels. “People love to comment on stuff like that, [and say things like] ‘she’s not gay, she’s pan,’ or ‘she’s had boyfriends,” Delevingne told Variety in a May 29 interview. “I’m like, yes I have, but at this point in my life I’m very happy to say I’m a lesbian.” Related People are delighted by Mel C’s “stunning response” to a question on speculation she’s gay Delevingne’s comments were reportedly in reaction to uproar from fans after she recently told an audience she’s a lesbian, considering she has dated men in the past. She explained that while she has always hated labels, she can’t see herself being with anyone but the her current partner – singer songwriter Minke – she’s for the rest of her life. “And I want to have a family with this woman, so yes, I’m a very proud lesbian.” Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today The interviewer asked if she felt it was empowering to claim the word lesbian as something positive. Delevingne instantly said yes. “There was something about my own internalized homophobia where that word was something I really didn’t want to say or admit.” She praised younger people’s openness and said it inspired her. “It is incredible when you have that kind of representation and community what it can do. We really can learn so much from the youth.” @varietymagazine #CaraDelevingne opens up about identifying as a “very proud lesbian” after people labeled her “pansexual” and pointed to her past relationships with men. Watch the full video at the link in bio. ♬ original sound – Variety Delevingne has spoken out in the past about her struggle to embrace her queer identity. In 2022, as part of her BBC documentary series, Planet Sex, she spoke about the suicidal ideation she experienced as a young person coming to terms with who she was. “I couldn’t talk to anyone about it. I had a lot of internalized homophobia and shame. I thought that I was abnormal,” she said. “I thought about ending my life, like I had multiple times, and I’m so glad I didn’t because if I can help any other kid that means the world to me.” She also called binaries “stupid” and said she refuses to let herself be put into a box. “I’m definitely genderfluid. I love playing with what we’ve been given as those gender constructs. Being super femme, being super masc, mixing it all up in one big cauldron.” Editor’s note: This article mentions suicide. If you need to talk to someone now, call the Trans Lifeline at 1-877-565-8860. It’s staffed by trans people, for trans people. The Trevor Project provides a safe, judgement-free place to talk for LGBTQ youth at 1-866-488-7386. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Subscribe to the LGBTQ Nation newsletter and be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

North Carolina vs. USC baseball box score: Live stats from NCAA Baseball Championship Game originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Friday's Game 1 between the Trojans and Tar Heels was ironically a tale of two halves. Innings 1-4, then innings 5-9. North Carolina jumped out to a 5-1 lead through four innings, only for USC to rack up eight unanswered runs in the latter five innings. An area to keep your eyes on are the 7-8-9 hitters who Coach Travis refers to as the "Snipers". Expected to generate runs from the back end of the order. On Friday Carpentier batting in the bottom of the order hit a grand slam that was the difference in the game. USC is one win away from the 2026 College World Series. First pitch in Chapel Hill will be at 2 p.m. ET on ESPN. 2026 NCAA Baseball Championship 123456789RHENorth Carolina (48-12-1)0100151USC (48-16)0000010North Carolina vs USC baseball box score: Live stats from NCAA Championship Super RegionalNorth Carolina Tar Heels BatterPOSABRHRBIBBSOAVGOBP2Jake SchaffnerSS100000.363.4805Gavin Gallaher2B201000.284.3768Owen HullCF201000.376.4956Macon WinslowDH100011.294.42744Erik Paulsen1B200000.298.42323Colin HynekC211101.274.36312Tyler HoweRF200000.246.3721Cooper Nicholson3B100000.263.43125Rom Kellis VLF200001.322.369Total20592574794662573H: Hynek 1 (9)RBI: Hynek 1 (55)PitcherPOSIPHRERBBSOBFERA29Jason DeCaroP4.010011142.4Total4.01001114DeCaro 50 (30 strikes)USC Trojans BatterPOSABRHRBIBBSOAVGOBP7Abbrie Covarrubias2B200000.273.3775Adrian Lopez1B201000.308.38624Augie LopezDH200001.279.3658Kevin Takeuchi3B200000.314.41820Isaac CadenaC200000.295.42414Jack BasserRF000010.333.43829Andrew LambLF100000.285.3856Dean CarpentierSS100000.250.37716Walter UrbonCF100000.382.411Total21422454444252371PitcherPOSIPHRERBBSOBFERA95Grant GovelP4.031113182.9Total4.03111318Govel 70 (48 strikes)How to watch: North Carolina vs USC 2026 NCAA Baseball Championship GameDate: Saturday, June 6Time: 2 p.m. ETTV: ESPNMore NCAA NewsCal Poly vs. West Virginia baseball box score: Game 1USC vs North Carolina baseball box score: Game 1Little Rock vs. Troy baseball box score: Game 1Texas vs. Texas Tech softball box score: Final Women's College World SeriesDemond Williams bombshell could have resulted in Lane Kiffin fired by LSU

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Natasha Howard had a season-high 27 points on 12-of-16 shooting, Olivia Miles added 19 points, six assists and six rebounds, and the Minnesota Lynx beat the Seattle Storm 88-68 on Saturday for their seventh win in a row — the last six by double figures.Courtney Williams and Kayla McBride scored 11 points apiece for the Lynx (9-2). Howard and Nia Coffey each had three of Minnesota's season-high-tying 13 steals.The Storm (3-9), who have lost five in a row, committed a season-high 21 turnovers and shot just 35% (22 of 63) from the field.Coffey hit a 3-pointer with 3:09 remaining in the second quarter that gave Minnesota the lead for good at 39-38. Howard made two layups while Coffey and Maya Caldwell each hit a 3 in a 10-0 run that made it 55-43 less than three minutes into the third, and it was at least a nine-point game the rest of the way.Natisha Hiedeman and Jade Melbourne led Seattle with 14 points apiece. Flau'jae Johnson added 10 points.Dominique Malonga (concussion protocol) returned from an eight-game absence and finished with seven points in 14 minutes off the bench for the Storm. Up nextStorm: Play Monday at Las Vegas. Lynx: Host Dallas on Tuesday. ___AP WNBA: https://apnews.com/hub/wnba-basketball

SPRINGFIELD — The Danville Dans lost their third straight game in a row on Thursday, falling 8-4 to the Springfield Lucky Horseshoes.The Dans had a 4-0 lead in the fourth with Chase Bays getting an RBI triple in the first, Carson Brady getting an RBI triple in the third, Mason McReynolds reached on a fielder's choice in the third and Josiah Serms scored on a balk.But the Lucky Horseshoes scored two in the fourth and three in the seventh and eighth innings to get the win with Pedro Rangel dropping to 1-1 on the season.The Dans were coming off a 12-2 loss the Illinois Valley Pistol Shrimp on Wednesday.Down 1-0 after the first, the Dans took the lead with a RBI double by Hudson Roberts and a RBI single by Chase Bays in the top of the second.But in the bottom of the second, Illinois Valley scored six runs, highlighted by a grand slam by Drew Church to go up 7-2.The Pistol Shrimp would add four more runs in the fourth and would get the final run in the seventh.Cooper Pumphrey took the loss for Danville, getting five strikeouts in 1 2/3 innings, Nolan Hataway, Addison Stockham, Caden Keleminic and Declan Bowers each pitched after Pumphrey and each had one strikeout.The Dans are 6-3 and played the Johnstown Mill Rats on Friday and will do so again today. Danville will finish the weekend on Sunday with a 4:30 p.m. game against the Terre Haute Rex.LEGION BASEBALLJunior Speakers split openerTILTON — After a 20-8 loss in the first game, the Post 210 Junior Speakers Gold rebounded with a 9-6 win in the second game of a doubleheader against Champaign Post 24 Junior Legion team.Ryker Dieu and Weston Church each had two RBIs for Post 210 in the second game, while Jordan Winchester had one RBI as the team scored eight runs in the third.In the first game, Terrance Forman, Fletcher Clem, Trey McLaughlin and Braxton Butler each had one RBI.The Junior Speakers are 1-1 and will face Tuscola Post 27 on Monday.PREP BOYS GOLFCovington fifth in sectionalATTICA, Ind. — The Trojans finished the season in fifth place in sectional action at Harrison Hills.Luke Holycross had a 83 to lead Covington, while Andrew Wright and Danny Smith each had a 86 and Cole Witsman added a 93.North Vermillion was 10th with Bryson Sams getting an 88 and Seeger was 11th with Austin Roarks and Waylan Trusty each getting an 97.HOCKEYIron sign another goaltenderDANVILLE — The Danville Iron is starting its run by building a foundation at goalkeeper.The Iron announced signing goalie Travis Baron, who is from the Florida Fury 18UAA team.“Travis has excellent technical skills, good size, and awareness of how the play is developing," Danville goalie coach Steve Sommerfiel said. "He consistently demonstrates the work ethic and dedication we value, getting on the ice before sunrise to train alongside other goaltenders and continuously refine his game. He is a fantastic addition to our goalie group for the Iron.”Baron is the third goalkeepers signed, joining Noah Schultz and Wyatt Czapar, who is the first signing in Iron history.HORSESHOESDanville Horseshoe LeagueJune 4 resultsTeam`W`LShoe Guys`11.5`3.5Motors Gang`8`4Stormy Oaks`7`5Bucking Broncos`6.5`5.5Ken's Service`4`8MiCasa SuCasa`4`11Taxi`3`9High 50-Shoe GamesBob Vandivier`114`106`95Mickie Peterson`96`79`73Glen Laird`88`84Loren Douglass`80`76`65Butch Meeker`80`72`67Mike Schroeder`79`71Oliver Buford`75`60

Mavs can win big in potential Kyrie Irving to Detroit Pistons trade originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Kyrie Irving is the last remaining player from the Mark Cuban era with the Dallas Mavericks, and his time with the franchise may be running out, as he is very much subject to a trade sooner or later.Since the team replaced Jason Kidd with Masai Ujiri in the front office, rival teams have monitored Irving's availability every single day. There is an understanding across the league that a 34-year-old point guard earning $39.5 million does not fit a rebuild centered around 19-year-old Copper Flagg.As more time passes, his name has become very hot on the trade market. ESPN recently included Irving in a list of six offseason trade ideas, suggesting a deal with the Detroit Pistons. In the proposed trade, Dallas would receive Isaiah Stewart, Caris LeVert, Ron Holland and a 2026 first-round draft pick (No. 21 overall).Analyst Bobby Marks called the move a bit risky for Detroit. However, he also noted that trading a late first-round pick and three rotational players is excellent value for a contending team.This package received mixed reviews from Dallas fans and analysts, but a counterproposal by SportDFW's Cem Yolbulan improves the deal. Yolbulan’s framework keeps the core package of Stewart, LeVert, Holland and the 2026 first-round pick, but adds an uncovered 2028 first-round pick. This extra draft asset makes the trade much more valuable for the Mavericks.Under the ESPN proposal, Dallas takes on $38.8 million in salary and adds the 21st pick to their existing 9th and 30th selections in the 2026 draft. Adding a 2028 first-round pick, as Cem Yolbulan suggested, turns a basic salary dump into a strong asset return. Mavericks executive Masai Ujiri has not committed to trading his point guard yet. He noted per NBC Sports that Kevin Durant once told him, "There is only one Kyrie walking around in the world," and said the front office needs to see how Irving fits the system. Still, this phrasing sounds more like standard due diligence than a long-term commitment. Irving has yet to share the floor with Flagg and is returning from an 18-month injury absence. Dallas has plenty of logical reasons to make a move now and a sweetened Pistons package gives them a clear incentive to do it.More NBA news:Victor Wembanyama called out after finals heartbreaker as NBA legend claims he is being brutally ‘kicked’ aroundSpurs left reeling as Charles Barkley hints Knicks run could enter all-time playoff history'Victor Wembanyama in shock' - Spurs star compared to Nick Anderson's 1995 NBA Finals nightmare10 of 13 analysts agree on one thing about the NBA Finals — and Knicks fans won't like itVictor Wembanyama at center of chaos as one professional wrestler fires back over MVP disrespect claim

Cornwall's men's side returned to Twickenham for the first time in four years [Simon Bryant]Cornwall won their eighth County Championship title as they beat Lancashire 39-24 at Twickenham.The Black and Gold lifted the Bill Beaumont Cup for the first time since 2022, ending an impressive campaign with a third victory.It capped off a historic day for Cornwall rugby - their women's side beat Durham to win the Division Two title on their first-ever visit to England's rugby headquarters.The win also ended a historic season for many of the Cornwall squad who had won the National Two West title with Camborne earlier in the season. Cornwall beat three-time reigning champions Kent 129-33 on aggregate to reach the final [Simon Bryant]Cornwall Women secure historic Twickenham victoryCornwall's Shepherd ready for 'magical' TwickenhamCornwall Men return to Twickenham after crushing KentSean Buzza's eighth-minute try cancelled out Chris Johnson's penalty, but Jack Elam went over for Lancashire to put them 10-7 up early on.However, two tries in quick succession from Alex Ducker and Kyle Moyle saw Cornwall lead 21-10 after 20 minutes. Moyle kicked a 33rd-minute penalty but Ashton Kassam-Sharples forced his way over from 15 metres to give Lancashire a lifeline with the half-time score at 24-17.Lancashire drew the score level eight minutes into the second period when Sam Freeman went over, but will be frustrated not to have done better when Cornwall's Josh Matavesi was sin-binned soon after.Lancashire were held up over the line, but it was Cornwall who struck as Moyle kicked a 50th-minute penalty before a returning Matavesi extended the lead to 34-24 10 minutes later.Any lingering doubts that Cornwall could add the Bill Beaumont Cup to their women's Gill Burns Division Two success earlier in the day were ended when Max Bodilly ended a fine flowing move to cross for his side's fifth try with 10 minutes left. "Full credit to Lancashire, I thought they were outstanding, but I think all the plaudits go to our boys and our squad," Cornwall captain Sam Matavesi told BBC Radio Cornwall."I think we handled the game so well when Josh went off. It probably gave us a bit of a spark that we needed, and when he came back on he made a few massive plays that helped in the win."It's tough when you only get a few weeks' prep; not everyone trains, not everyone takes part. So to get that result is massive."You can't get bored of playing finals, especially at Twickenham, and to be in that contest to win is incredible. "I'm proud of all the lads, all the coaches and all of Cornwall." Related internet links Cornwall RFU

England v New Zealand XIs: Bellingham on the bench before World Cup!England and New Zealand face off in a friendly ahead of the 2026 World Cup.Here is how both teams line up for the match...ENGLAND XINEW ZEALAND XIThis article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

MUMBAI: Having worked in close tandem with Shreyas Iyer at Punjab Kings, where the duo formed a successful captain-coach combination over the last two IPL seasons — PBKS reached the IPL final last year and narrowly missed out on the playoffs this time — Australia’s former captain Ricky Ponting was naturally pleased for his franchise skipper and endorsed India’s selectors for appointing him as the T20 captain for the tours of Ireland and England, and also the 2026 Asian Games later this year.“It's great recognition of what he's done over the last three or four years really. I mean, you wind the clock back three years ago of IPL cricket. He obviously captained KKR to a title there. You know, captained us, Punjab, into the final last year and did a terrific job captaining our team again this year, albeit not making it through to the qualifiers. But the thing that stands out most for me about him is how he's conducted himself and how he's handled himself over the last three or four years. Like there's, I'm sure there's probably been times when he's felt that he probably should have been picked in a few more Indian teams that he has, but he's always just got back to work. He's put his head down and he's worked really hard and he's become a much better player now than I think he was four or five years ago,” an elated Ponting told TOI in an exclusive interview on Saturday, minutes after the decision was made official.“I've been the one endorsing him for the role and telling the Indian selectors that if they give him a chance, I don't think they'll be disappointed. As I said, it's a great achievement. It's terrific recognition for the hard work he has put in over a long period of time, and I'm sure he'll do a great job as captain of India,” Ponting added.Ponting felt that Iyer had improved as a captain over the years.“And he's certainly a better captain now, a better leader, and probably a more mature and more well-rounded person now. So yeah, I think it's great recognition. I think he'll do a terrific job.""And when you think of some of the other candidates, I mean, it's full credit to him that he's the captain now because there's a lot of other great players in India. We know that there's a lot of great players in that current Indian team. And that team has had great success as well over the last few years. So for them to name him as captain, I think it's great recognition and great reward,” Ponting said.The former Australia captain revealed that Iyer is a highly motivated individual and that he did not need many motivational chats, even when the batter was being overlooked for India’s T20 side despite performing well in the IPL.“I don't have to have too many motivational chats with him. He's a very self-motivated person. He wants to be the best player and the best leader that he can be. That's if he's playing for Mumbai, if he's playing for Punjab Kings, if he's playing for India. He just wants to be the best version of himself that he can be. So, it's no secret,” Ponting said.Explaining why he chose to “go hard” for Iyer in the IPL auction a couple of years ago, where Punjab Kings splurged Rs 26.75 crore to buy him, Ponting said, “I've said it for the last couple of years. And it's the reason, you know, when I took over as coach of Punjab, the reason that I went so hard for Shreyas Iyer in the auction is because I wanted to work with him again. And I knew he was the best person in the auction that was going to take our franchise forward.""So I've got a long history with him. We've had some great times together. You know, we talk a lot about his batting as well, not just his captaincy, but we talk a lot about his batting and making sure that we're getting his batting right and he's making plenty of runs.”“And he's done that, you know, the last couple of years. We've been back together again at the Punjab Kings. He's done that really well,” he said.Ponting said he would soon have a congratulatory chat with Iyer, in which he would give him an idea of what the coveted job entails.“So, yeah, I'm absolutely thrilled for him. Now that it's official, I'll actually give him a call and have a chat with him and congratulate him and make sure that he makes the most of it and understands the enormity of the role that he's been given,” Ponting said.Asked whether Iyer would be able to replicate the kind of success he achieved as Punjab Kings captain — taking the franchise to the IPL final last year and narrowly missing out on a playoff berth this season — Ponting replied, “Yeah, no doubt. I think he'll have great respect from all of his teammates. And that's a big part of it. And I think he's earned that over the last couple of years. With everything not going exactly the way that he would have wanted to, he's worked his way not only back into the (Indian) team, but back into the team and as the captain.“So I think, look, he's in a terrific place to be captain of India right now because he's on top of his own game. And as I said, he's at that age now as well where he just understands himself and understands what leadership is all about. And his personal form has also been great, I believe. He made 600 (604 runs in 17 matches at 50.33) last year. And this year, again, around 500 runs (498 runs in 14 matches at 55.33). So he's been batting pretty well as well,” Ponting said.“He's someone that likes the big moments, the big games. You even think back to whenever we've (PBKS) been in a run chase, it's generally been him that's been standing tall at the end and soaking up the pressure and getting us across the line,” he said.Ponting felt that Iyer’s ability to deliver in crunch situations convinced the selectors about his ability to lead India in T20Is.“I think that's probably one of the big things that the Indian selectors have looked at, just how he's handled himself under pressure. Because it's, you know, when you're captain of India, it's a high-pressure job. And I think, you know, more often than not, Shreyas has always found a way to play well in those big pressure moments. So I think as a player, he'll be fine,” Ponting said.“No, he was very calm right the way through it. We're all disappointed come the end of the season. Having got off to the start that we did and then not being able to qualify was a disappointing end to the tournament for us. But look, whenever Shreyas speaks, everyone listens. His teammates don't take their eyes off him when he's got something to say around the team. That's why I think he's grown into that. He's grown into that year on year. He's grown into a really good leader. So am I surprised by it? No, I'm actually not. I'm not surprised by it at all,” Ponting said when asked about how did Iyer respond when Punjab Kings lost six games in a row in IPL 2026'We knew it was coming'“At Punjab Kings, We’re all very happy and elated. We knew it was coming. We saw that he had all the traits of a great captain- He is calm, cool, and the way he approaches the game. He’s born to be a captain," said Punjab Kings CEO Satish Menon. Shreyas’ father Santosh Iyer was naturally pleased, particularly as his son had managed to come a long way after suffering a life-threatening spleen injury last year in October while taking a catch during the third ODI in Sydney against Australia. “We’re very happy. We are very happy for the hard work that he has done. After that injury and all, it was a big setback for him. Yes, last year's injury. Yes, he got injured. And he was dropped also. He wasn't selected in the T20. But the competition is so big, you cannot complain also. All the players are good. All of them are good,” Iyer stated to this paper.Santosh said that Shreyas was disheartened when he was snubbed from India’s T20- team last year, but he “doesn’t keep brooding.” “Yes, he was a little disappointed, but he is a good boy. He doesn't keep brooding. He takes everything positively, and he starts working on it again. That's his plus point. He doesn't cry. He doesn't say, I didn't get selected. It's okay, I didn't get tested. I will work harder.’Former India batsman and ex-Delhi Capitals and Mumbai coach Pravin Amre has been coaching Iyer since he was 12, when the Mumbai batter began learning cricket at the Shivaji Park Gymkhana's cricket academy. Over the years, Amre has witnessed many of the batter's ups and downs. "The team management's backing was very important and I'm sure he will also do the job that is expected from Team India. And in this journey of his, especially I was always right behind him as his coach. As a leader, I think he finds his way. The credit goes to him because it's not easy to lead an IPL side. He has shown that what support he gets from teammates is very important. He has got the trust of his teammates, which is important as a leader. Sometimes you have to be fair (as a captain), and I think that he has always done that. Whenever there are important games, he leads from the front, whether it comes to his batting or his fielding. His fielding has also improved in the past few years, which is important. As a leader, I think his game awareness has improved a lot," Amre praised."He has gone through the grind to reach here, and with the support of his team, I think he will come with the flying colors. I'm confident he can do that," Amre added.Amre felt that Iyer's vast experience in the IPL weighed in his favour. international "He has now got the experience of playing in the IPL now for more than 10 years, and that really count in international white-ball cricket. Team India has always backed him, which shows as he's India's ODI vice-captain. So, I think that's really helped him. For any player, it's always an honour to lead the Indian team." he addedAmre said he was expecting Iyer 's elevation to India' T20 captaincy. "He is the vice-captain of Team India (in ODIs). So he was in their scheme, basically."“I met Shreyas for the first time in my life at the pre-season camp of our team in Dharamshala, three weeks before IPL-2025. I chatted with him for about 15 minutes. And within 15 minutes of meeting him, I could tell that he was a natural born leader. Luckily, I am a leader in what I do, so I can make that out! I told him that one day, sooner than later, you will be the Indian captain. He smiled at me. I said, ‘When that day happens, remember what I said!,” Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia told TOI.“I mean, he has been the captain in the IPL for nine years now. 2027 will be his 10th year as an IPL captain! The IPL is the Premier cricket tournament in the world at the highest level. I have a high regard for Surya-he is a wonderful player and captain, but Shreyas will also be a good (India T20) captain” Wadia added.

Troy vs Little Rock baseball box score: Full stats from NCAA Baseball Championship Game originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Troy is playing in their first Super Regional in program history. Hosting this round of the tournament is also a first. After a convincing 12-2 win on Friday, Troy is in an advantageous position. Win today and Troy punches their ticket for the College World Series. Little Rock faces an uphill battle. On Friday they could only muster two runs and both came in the first three innings. In those same first three innings, Troy put up six runs including a Grand Slam. If Little Rock can prevent big scoring early, perhaps this becomes a different series. 2026 NCAA Baseball Championship 123456789RHETroy (37-30)2220Little Rock (39-27)0010Troy vs Little Rock baseball box score: Live stats from NCAA Championship Super RegionalTroyBatterPOSABRHRBIBBSOAVGOBP2Aaron PiaseckiSS111000.348.45732Josh Pyne3B010010.288.37034Blake Cavill1B100001.278.4385Jimmy JanickiC100001.342.4151Steven MeierCF000000.317.46022Drew NelsonLF101200.311.39337Sean Darnell2B100001.252.3768Jabe BoroffDH000000.270.38923Houston MarkhamRF000000.315.353Total226140562344726632B: Nelson 1 (17)RBI: Nelson 2 (49)PitcherPOSIPHRERBBSOBFERA15Tommy EganP1.01000135.6Total1.0100013Egan 11 (8 strikes)Little RockBatterPOSABRHRBIBBSOAVGOBP1Jerdy LopezSS101000.286.35616Kade SmithCF100001.335.40312Nolan Freund3B100000.322.3595Blake SimpsonLF000000.351.39217Nico BaumbachDH000000.329.38726Angel Cano1B000000.294.33525Ty RhoadesRF000000.272.3229Trey HillC000000.243.3098Cooper Chaplain2B000000.220.274Total23023685563653001PitcherPOSIPHRERBBSOBFERA45Nic BronziniP1.02221374.913Tag AndrewsP0.0000000-Total1.0222137Bronzini 34 (17 strikes)How to watch: Troy vs Little Rock 2026 NCAA Baseball Championship GameDate: Saturday, June 6Time: 3 p.m. ETTV: ESPN2More NCAA NewsSaint Mary's vs. UCLA baseball box score: Final stats from NCAA Baseball Championship Game 1Milwaukee vs. Auburn baseball box score: Final stats from NCAA Baseball Championship Game 1Arkansas vs. Georgia box score: Final stats from 2026 SEC Baseball ChampionshipBill Belichick, Jordon Hudson at Kentucky Derby leaves everyone saying the same thingDemond Williams bombshell could have resulted in Lane Kiffin fired by LSU

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani walked confidently across the City Hall lawn on Thursday, sat down, and admitted that he had not had time to do much research into who he thought was going to win this summer’s World Cup.On the face of it, this should come as no surprise. Mamdani oversees the municipal government of the United States’ largest city – one facing record-high rents and continued fears over ICE, and which faced a budget crunch among myriad other issues upon his election to office.However, Mamdani is also an avid soccer fan – a rarity in American politics, made especially so by his strong, repeated engagement with the sport as both a matter of public policy and cultural force. He attended Eid al-Adha prayers in the Bronx wearing an Arsenal-branded kurta. He has campaigned against Fifa’s dynamic pricing policy, while also hosting a watch party at a municipal court for the Africa Cup of Nations final.Related: Morocco World Cup 2026 team guideMamdani’s connection to African football will get even stronger now. Playing the Guardian’s World Cup Bracketology game, Mamdani offered his prediction of how he sees the tournament playing out: he sees Morocco beating France in the final.Just before making his selections, I asked Mamdani if he would be making picks with his heart (what he wants to see in the tournament) or his head (what he thinks is likely). The result ended up being a bit of both. Some selections were easy. Several others drew pained deliberations from Mamdani, including the final, where he finally settled on Morocco as the winner. An extremely unlikely result according to most, but “the heart wants what it wants,” he said.Should it play out that way, it would be a first-ever World Cup win – and first appearance in the final – for any African country. It culminates a World Cup prediction that has no shortage of surprises, including Haiti advancing to the round of 32, Brazil falling to Japan at that same stage, and the US making a quarter-final run before falling to England.Four years ago in Qatar, Morocco became the first African team to reach the World Cup semi-finals. Mamdani, then a New York state assemblyman representing a district in Queens, joined his constituents in Astoria after Morocco beat Portugal in the quarter-finals. He posted videos from celebrations on Steinway Street, a hub for the city’s north African communities.The Atlas Lions enter this summer’s tournament seventh in Fifa’s rankings with ambitions high to better their Qatar result and the squad to do it.Mamdani could very well attend Morocco’s opener: they begin Group C play against Brazil on 13 June at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Last month, he announced plans to make $50 tickets available for city residents to attend seven of the eight matches at the stadium. Those tickets – in blocks of about 150 per game for a total of 1,000 – are being distributed by random draw.Related: Haaland’s Norway to Ronaldo’s swansong: Who are the most likely first-time World Cup winners?The mayor announced that ticket program at an event in May alongside USMNT players Tim Weah and Mark McKenzie, both of whom are native New Yorkers. Mamdani is bullish on the Americans’ World Cup chances: he selected them to finish first in Group D and defeat Canada and Belgium in the knockouts before a quarter-final against England.At a press conference in March about the city’s transportation plans ahead of the World Cup, the mayor had demurred on his pick to win it all, but was quick to point out which team it wouldn’t be. “It’s not going to be Portugal,” he told reporters with a laugh. In his Guardian bracket, Mamdani has Portugal losing to England in the Round of 32.Mamdani, who was born in Uganda, has spoken about how a trip to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa influenced his soccer fandom. He was at Soccer City in Johannesburg supporting Ghana when they played Uruguay in the quarter-finals and said he cried in the stadium after Luis Suárez’s infamous handball swung the result.This year, he believes Ghana will advance to the knockouts as the third-place team in Group I and fall to Colombia in the Round of 32.

EAGAN, MINNESOTA - MAY 27: Christian Darrisaw #71 of the Minnesota Vikings looks on during an OTA workout at Twin Cities Orthopedics Performance Center on May 27, 2026 in Eagan, Minnesota. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images) | Getty Images Well, we have ourselves another QB debate! The sides are lining up and slinging arrows already (yours truly included). Gotta love it no? I do not know what is going to happen but we have now reached the stage of bloggers, media types, and doofuses (of doofi – also raises hand) are speculating on trading JJ. Things move fast eh?I am going to guess that the team laughs about it internally. You cant stop the speculators from speculating. If the team, not any of us fans, decided to trade him they would eliminate any lingering summer quarterback controversy and eliminate media distractions. If Kyler starts and play most or all of the season then JJ is going to be sitting on the bench and his value will be less next year.You can see from the links below that some “writers” are already going way too far with some of the stuff liek JJ stretching away from the other QBs. Maybe Kyler is a gassy dude? Maybe JJ had gas? Who knows? I watched Edelman talking about Moss who always stretched with the defensive linemen. It’s much ado about nothing but that is the kind of stuff that will get written all summer. Every facial expression will be analyzed.I think the Jets who have three first round picks next year should jump at the chance to get JJ. They might do badly and have a top pick next year but if not, then they have to hoep to be able to trade up. The Vikings were unable to trade up for Maye (I’m told). Then, what do they do? Sign Baker Mayfield is he hits the market? IDK. I think the Jets have the draft capital to make a deal.The Jets send a 2027 2nd and a 2028 conditional 5th for JJ.Josh Rosen was traded for a 2nd and a 5th and McCarthy’s tape over his first 10 starts is vastly superior to Rosen. Darnold was traded for a 6th, 2nd, and 4th round pick. The Justin Fields trade is a bad analogy because he was traded after 38 starts.If the team was going to trade JJ then I think this makes a lot of sense on both sides.My guess? I do not know now. I think they will hang onto him longer but if they really do feel that Jyler is the one then they would be doing “right” by JJ to let him go to another team before training camp so that he can get into the offense.In the meantime, we shall “debate” away!A little note about links. I do not write these and they are what pops up when I google “Vikings news”. I usually post most of the links and unfortunately there are a lot of stories about the QB situation.Minnesota Vikings News and LinksViking Rumor Watch: The Top Trade Piece, J.J. McCarthy “Controversy,” Week 1 Perkhttps://sports.yahoo.com/articles/viking-rumor-watch-top-trade-050500846.htmlRumor: Kevin O’Connell was unfazed by J.J. McCarthy’s comments last week about his role in the QB1 roster battle.McCarthy’s comments about his role in the QB1 battle turned heads last week, and reporters were quick to ask O’Connell about his take on Thursday.He replied, “The interpretation of those comments will be what they are. I would just say, in the room, day to day, the dialogue between those guys, the interactions, have been very professional. And more than that, it’s been a positive room. I think Carson has a lot to do with that, as the veteran in the room.”“And I would never discount Josh McCown’s extensive career as a player in those quarterback rooms and how he manages the room and everybody in there. So I didn’t make a lot out of it. I know there was some reaction to it. That’s probably not the first time there’s gonna be a reaction to those guys answering questions about the situation.”The skipper also said that he expects fierce competition and does not require his players to smile during camp battles.He continued, “That’s what the competition is all about. There’s no hiding anything. It’s going to be displayed on the field, and their teammates and coaching staff and the guys in this building have to feel a conviction about the direction we go, and you do that by your daily habits, and just improving.”O’Connell added about McCarthy, “I think he’s handling it really well. He’s been great in the meeting rooms. As a captain and a guy that helps lead our team, he’s been phenomenal.”Why Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy’s comments about Kyler Murray don’t concern Kevin O’Connellhttps://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7333859/2026/06/04/jj-mccarthy-kyler-murray-qb-vikings-kevin-oconnell/“Those things are always tough for me because I’m in it,” O’Connell said. “I’m around it every day. So, another’s interpretation of those comments is going to be what they are. I would just say that, in the room, in the actual day-to-day, the dialogue between those guys, the interactions, have been very professional. It’s been a positive room.”Did he, at least, like McCarthy’s attitude?“What actually matters is what I care about,” O’Connell said. “Did we take the right footwork on a play? Did we have our eyes in the right spot? Did we make a protection call against one of (defensive coordinator Brian Flores’) blitz looks? Did we do our jobs to manufacture the starting point and potential path to success for the offense? There’s enough that goes into that where I don’t have a ton of space left over for who says what and how they say it.”“It doesn’t mean that everybody has to be smiling every day,” O’Connell said. “When they speak to (the media), I want them to be open and honest. Because I think it’s all part of having a transparent quarterback competition that allows them to truly demonstrate that they can consistently be the same guy every day.”JJ McCarthy Pouting at Vikings Practices?https://www.minnesotasportsfan.com/minnesota-vikings/jj-mccarthy-pouting-distant-other-qbs-practice/While KOC is trying to maintain the idea publicly that JJ McCarthy and Kyler Murray are are competing in an open quarterback competition, and that it’s being conducted in a professional manner by all parties, the evidence is piling up to indicate otherwise.…Unfortunately for KOC, others paying attention very much care about whether or not quarterbacks at TCO Performance Center are playing nice. Thus, it’s worth noting that media members taking in some of these practices are seeing things much differently than the head coach.According to most reports, Murray has convincingly pulled ahead of McCarthy. Another thing becoming more apparent by the day — Minnesota’s 23-year-old former No. 10 overall draft pick is not handling it well.And that brings us to Vikings beat writer Alec Lewis‘, and his most recent piece at The Athletic, which you cannot read without questioning how the Minnesota Vikings plan to navigate the next handful of months with a young quarterback as pouty and disengaged as JJ McCarthy seems to be.Per Lewis, JJ could be found doing his pre-practice stretches away from the team’s other quarterbacks Thursday. Same thing after practice, McCarthy could be seen jogging off the practice fields by himself, while the other three QBs hung back together.O’Connell’s [office perch at TCO Performance Center] provides him with the details behind these snaps — behind everything. He knows the degree of difficulty of throws in his scheme, and he knows whether or not it matters that McCarthy stretches away from the other three quarterbacks before practices like Thursday’s, or that he jogged off the field Thursday before the other three, who stayed behind together.NFL insider comments on Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy pours fuel on the fire of his futurehttps://atozsports.com/nfl/minnesota-vikings-news/nfl-insider-comments-jj-mccarthy-trade-kyler-murray-vikings-qb-competition/Let’s be real here. The competition may be “real” but expectations are that Murray wins the job. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero echoed that sentiment on The Power Trip Morning Show.“I don’t believe that Kevin [O’Connell] needs to take this all the way through the third preseason game to determine his starting quarterback. You’re going to probably have a pretty good idea by the end of spring what direction this is going to go.“J.J. has made strides. I think everybody who’s watched him throw, you can see mechanically he looks a little bit different than he has in the past, Kyler comes in as just, he’s a baller man. So Kyler, who’s always been able to make the spectacular [play], but has not always consistently made the simple play. That’s the thing that they have to figure out exactly how well he’s going to adapt. They’re getting a feel of it through the OTAs.”“Again, I would imagine you’re going to start to see the reps perhaps change a little bit here over these next couple of weeks as they hone in on what their plan is going to be going into training camp. And I’m not saying this, I don’t know what direction they’re going to go as you get closer to the season, but let’s say Kyler wins the job, which I would lean toward Kyler is the starting quarterback. Do you have J.J. as the backup? Do you potentially look to trade him while there’s still some intrigue within the league? You might be able to get more for him with two years left on his rookie contract than with one year left. Those are all things that I would think you’re going to talk through.”NFL Network’s Tom PelisseroMinnesota Vikings QB competition nearing its end?https://www.skornorth.com/minnesota-vikings-qb-competition-nearing-its-end/Latest controversy with Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy says everything and nothing at the same timehttps://atozsports.com/nfl/minnesota-vikings-news/latest-jj-mccarthy-vikings-controversy-says-everything-and-nothing/Would Nolan Teasley Put A Vikings QB On the Trade Block?https://zonecoverage.com/2026/minnesota-vikings-news/would-nolan-teasley-put-a-vikings-qb-on-the-trade-block/4 Hypothetical Trade Offers For J.J. McCarthy: Minnesota Vikings could move on after latest insider commentshttps://sports.yahoo.com/articles/4-hypothetical-trade-offers-j-150000043.htmlNew York Jets get 2027 NFL Draft insuranceJets receive: J.J. McCarthyVikings receive: 2027 5th-round pick (conditional pick that rises to a 3rd with 70% snaps played)Note: Garbage trade value!5 J.J. McCarthy Trade Landing Spots Once Kyler Murray Wins Vikings Starting Jobhttps://sports.yahoo.com/articles/5-j-j-mccarthy-trade-215043893.html“Don’t see a path to recovery”: Analyst claims 70% chance J.J. McCarthy gets traded before Week 1 as Vikings lament “mistake” of drafting QBhttps://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-don-t-see-path-recovery-analyst-claims-70-chance-j-j-mccarthy-gets-traded-week-1-vikings-lament-mistake-drafting-qbJ.J. McCarthy deserves a chance to exist without a hot takehttps://thevikingage.com/jj-mccarthy-deserves-chance-exist-without-hot-take-minnesota-vikingsBrian Flores Won an Award Out of Nowherehttps://sports.yahoo.com/articles/brian-flores-won-award-nowhere-130200611.htmlThe unforeseen honor is official. ProFootballWriters.org announced Thursday, “Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores was selected as the 2026 George Halas Award winner in voting conducted by the Professional Football Writers of America (PFWA). Flores, the 58th Halas Award winner, is the first member of the Vikings franchise to receive the honor from the PFWA.”“Other 2026 finalists for the Halas Award were Detroit Lions edge Aidan Hutchinson and San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey. The Halas Award is given to an NFL player, coach or staff member who overcomes the most adversity to succeed.”Flores doesn’t get a whole lot of love for his accomplishments, so this award is a nice change of pace.PFWA President Nicki Jhabvala said about Flores: “Brian Flores took action on his beliefs, at risk to his career. He has thrived as one of the league’s top defensive minds since returning to the NFL as a coordinator while the courts consider his case.”Vikings’ Dallas Turner Sends Strong Message on Role After Jonathan Greenard Tradehttps://heavy.com/sports/nfl/minnesota-vikings/dallas-turner-jonathan-greenard-trade-leader/“I’m really just trying to be a leader,” Turner revealed when speaking to reporters. “We’ve got kind of a younger room. I’m still young in the NFL, but I still have some type of experience. I can be some type of beacon or outlet to some of the guys that are new on the team.”Nolan Teasley starts Vikings tenure by signing recently waived Seahawkshttps://www.fieldgulls.com/seattle-seahawks-news/169291/nolan-teasley-starts-vikings-tenure-signing-recently-waived-seahawks-nfl-newsWell, it turns out that pipeline already exists. In Teasley’s first moves as general manager of the Vikings, he has signed two former Seahawks; wide receivers Michael Briscoe and Trayvon Rudolph. Although Briscoe and Rudolph were only undrafted free agent signings who didn’t last with Seattle even into June, it is still telling that both players were quickly signed by Teasley in Minnesota.3 Vikings Contract Extension Candidates Before the 2026 Season Beginshttps://www.si.com/nfl/vikings/onsi/3-vikings-contract-extension-candidates-before-2026-season-beginsLB Blake CashmanCashman is heading into the final season of the three-year, $22.5 million deal he signed with the Vikings as a free agent in 2024. The Eden Prairie native and former Gophers linebacker has been everything the Vikings were hoping for when they signed him, even if he’s missed a few games due to injury in both of his seasons in Minnesota.OLB Andrew Van GinkelAnother critical part of Brian Flores’ defense, Van Ginkel is probably the Vikings’ best player on that side of the ball now that Jonathan Greenard is no longer around. He was rewarded for his unbelievable 2024 campaign with a one-year, $23 million extension last offseason, but now he once again has no long-term security beyond this year. The Vikings should be looking to change that.RT Brian O’NeillNeither Cashman nor O’Neill have been participating at recent Vikings OTA practices. Maybe they’re dealing with some physically, or maybe they’re protecting themselves in the hopes of landing a new contract soon. O’Neill is heading into the final year of a five-year, $92.5 million deal. His $23.1 million cap hit this year is the highest on the roster, and an extension could bring that down by pushing more money into the future.Vikings OTA Observations: Big Man Finesse; Offensive Rhythm & Timinghttps://www.vikings.com/news/jalen-redmond-will-reichard-ota-practice-2026O’Connell is pleased so far with the way players have gone about their business throughout the spring.“Our guys have totally attacked [practices] with the intentionality of what we’re trying to get done — schematical emphasis, fundamentals and technique emphasis, and then obviously the early stages of what’s going to be a very competitive football team across the board,” he said. “It was good to have Nolan out for his first practice today, first of many, and awesome to have seen him introduced in such a positive way yesterday. Really excited about having him aboard and everything that there is to come.”Vikings Receiver Depth; ‘Great Spring’ for Christian Darrisawhttps://www.vikings.com/news/kevin-oconnell-ota-wide-receivers-christian-darrisawNo 2. McCarthy & Murray learning togetherDuring his media session, O’Connell was asked about how J.J. McCarthy has “handled” Minnesota’s signing of veteran QB Kyler Murray this offseason. The two passers are currently competing for the starting role.O’Connell said McCarthy has “handled it really well” and has been great in the meeting rooms.“[He’s] spending a little bit more time with those guys (other quarterbacks), and just the dialogue between the group, obviously the great questions you get from those guys as we’re going through the installation process,” O’Connell said. “We have guys that are all at different stages of not only their career but their understanding and application of our offense.“So there’s many times where Kyler may have a question that mirrors a question that J.J. had during his [time] on the grass last year and playing,” O’Connell added. “And there’s dialogue that comes — there’s been tweaks to the offense that we’ve made off some of these conversations and dialogue, and he’s (McCarthy) been great in the meeting room. He’s been great on the grass and, as always, as a former, as a captain and a guy that helps lead our team, he’s been phenomenal there as well.”O’Connell has the team vote on season-long captains each season after roster cutdowns. McCarthy was one of eight chosen by teammates aheadNo 4. No timetable on Hitman decisionNo official updates are available for the potential return — or equally potential retirement — of Harrison Smith.And that’s just fine by O’Connell, who’s reiterated respect for and patience with “The Hitman” as he makes the best decision for him and his family.“The only update I can give is he was in town and saw some folks. I didn’t get to see him. I was incredibly hurt by that,” O’Connell quipped. “And then in an attempt to play some golf with him, I was turned down. That’s the only update that, kind of in embarrassing fashion, I’m willing to give today because that’s really what it is right now.”Asked if he believes Smith still wants to play football, O’Connell explained he doesn’t think it’s that simple.“You know what? I think Harrison Smith is going to want to play football until he’s old and gray — which, the last time I checked, has not happened yet,” he said.Highlights from 2026 OTA Practice | June 4Vikings Thursday OTA Recap: QB Takeaways, Intriguing Young Playershttps://www.si.com/nfl/vikings/onsi/vikings-thursday-ota-recap-qb-takeaways-intriguing-young-playersVikings newest defender graded among the best players late in gameshttps://sports.yahoo.com/articles/vikings-newest-defender-graded-among-023819291.htmlWhen discussing Pierre, Carragher wrote:Across 79 fourth-quarter coverage snaps, Pierre allowed just two receptions for 19 yards. He also recorded six of his nine pass breakups during fourth quarters. His fourth-quarter PFF coverage grade of 91.3 ranked first in the NFL and likely would have been even higher had he managed to keep both feet in bounds on a near interception against his current team, the Minnesota Vikings, in Week 4.Among the receivers targeted while covered by Pierre in the fourth quarter were Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, Michael Pittman Jr. and Jerry Jeudy. None managed to record a catch against him.Vikings fans can breathe a sigh of relief when it comes to the offensive linehttps://atozsports.com/nfl/minnesota-vikings-news/vikings-fans-can-breathe-a-sigh-of-relief-christian-darrisaw-health/The good news for the offensive line is that they are getting healthy. The key piece to the line is left tackle Christian Darrisaw, who has been seen at OTAs without a knee brace. He appears to be back to his normal self.“Best it’s felt in two years,” Darrisaw told the Minnesota Star Tribune on Thursday. “I’m trending in the right direction. Full motion, everything feels great.”‘I think that’s where you win’ — Vikings GM Nolan Teasley endears himself to the entire fanbase during his first day on the jobhttps://atozsports.com/nfl/minnesota-vikings-news/vikings-gm-nolan-teasley-build-super-bowl-champion-trenches/Nolan Teasley’s team building strategy is exactly what Vikings fans wantThe trenches have been a spot that hasn’t gotten the attention that many have asked for the Vikings to have. They did make it a priority this past April by using three of their first four picks in the NFL Draft in the trenches, and all four if you include Jake Golday as an edge rusher.New general manager Nolan Teasley knows how important the trenches are, as the Seattle Seahawks team he helped build just won the Super Bowl. He did an interview with the Vikings Entertainment Network, and made it clear how he values the trenches.“Investment in the offensive on the offensive line, defensive line as well, because I think that’s where you win in the trenches.”Note: Music to our ears no?Minnesota Vikings All-PFF Team: The best players of the past 20 yearshttps://www.pff.com/news/nfl-minnesota-vikings-all-pff-team-the-best-players-of-the-past-20-yearsOffenseQB: Kirk Cousins (2018-2023)HB: Adrian Peterson (2007-2016)WR: Justin Jefferson (2020-2025)WR: Stefon Diggs (2015-2019)Slot WR: Adam Thielen (2014-2022, 2025)TE: T.J. Hockenson (2022-2025)TE: Kyle Rudolph (2011-2020)LT: Bryant McKinnie (2006-2010)LG: Steve Hutchinson (2006-2011)C: John Sullivan (2009-2013)RG: Joe Berger (2011-2017)RT: Brian O’Neill (2018-2025)DefenseDI: Kevin Williams (2006-2013)DI: Linval Joseph (2014-2019)ED: Danielle Hunter (2015-2023)ED: Jared Allen (2008-2013)LB: Eric Kendricks (2015-2022)LB: E.J. Henderson (2006-2011)SLB: Anthony Barr (2014-2023)CB: Cedric Griffin (2006-2011)CB: Xavier Rhodes (2013-2019)Slot CB: Antoine Winfield (2006-2012)S: Harrison Smith (2012-2025)S: Anthony Harris (2015-2020)Bills-Vikings massive trade pitch sees Buffalo break bank to acquire generational $140 million WRhttps://sports.yahoo.com/articles/bills-vikings-massive-trade-pitch-225131883.htmlKay’s full trade proposal would send 2027 first, second, and fourth-round picks, and 2028 third and fifth-round picks to the Vikings for Jefferson.Amon-Ra St. Brown just gave Justin Jefferson fans fresh materialhttps://thevikingage.com/lions-amon-ra-st-brown-minnesota-vikings-justin-jefferson-fans-fresh-materialVikings named among teams with a strong chance to return to playoffshttps://sports.yahoo.com/articles/vikings-named-among-teams-strong-023940346.htmlIf the Vikings can get bounce-back performances out of Murray and Darrisaw, they could return to the postseason in 2026, says Greg Auman of FOX Sports.If the Minnesota Vikings had found ways to put up more points last season, they would’ve made the postseason for a second straight year. They had a top-10 defense with coordinator Brian Flores, going 7-2 in games where they scored 20 points or more. That suggests if the offense can get back to 2024 levels, they could be a surprise team in the NFC North. However, big questions loom. Will Kyler Murray prove to be a bargain on a league minimum prove-it deal? Can rookie defensive tackle Caleb Banks show he wasn’t a first-round reach and offset the loss of edge rusher Jonathan Greenard? Can wide receiver Jauan Jennings find himself again as a as a potent 1-2-3 with Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison?NFC North win totals: The Vikings are being overlooked, while the Packers are being overratedhttps://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfc-north-win-totals-2026-bears-lions-packers-vikings-picks/Minnesota Vikings: Over/Under 8.5 (-110)I’ve found that the Vikings are one of the more polarizing teams entering this season. They brought in Kyler Murray to battle J.J. McCarthy for the starting job, but I think most would be surprised if the former No. 1 overall pick isn’t under center in Week 1. So how much will Murray improve this team, if at all?Murray played just five games for the Arizona Cardinals last season because of a foot injury, but it also felt like a soft benching. He’s missed 30 of a possible 68 games over the past five seasons and hasn’t looked great since 2021.Still, we all know Murray at his best is an electric playmaker, and he should feel rejuvenated by the change of scenery.Murray will have some fantastic weapons to work with, including Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson and Jauan Jennings. I believe Jennings is one of the most underrated signings of the entire offseason, so don’t get me started on him. He ranked second on the 49ers in receptions and receiving yards over the past two seasons and led the team in red-zone targets (34), fourth-quarter targets (50) and third-down targets (69) during that span. He’s also an elite run blocker and doesn’t drop the football.Thanks for entertaining my rant.Murray now also has the backing of a Brian Flores-led defense, which he didn’t have in Arizona. The Vikings did lose Javon Hargrave, Jonathan Allen and Jonathan Greenard on the defensive front, but I like some of the additions they made in the draft, including linebacker Jake Golday, defensive tackle Domonique Orange and safety Jakobe Thomas.The Vikings hit the over on this line last year thanks to a five-game winning streak to end the season. Do we really see Minnesota getting worse?Verdict: Over 8.5Falcons, Drake London reach 4-year, $141M extension, agent sayshttps://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48951347/falcons-drake-london-reach-4-year-141m-extension-agent-saysThe Falcons and London came to terms on a four-year, $141 million contract extension, including $100 million guaranteed, his agent Andrew Kessler of Athletes First told ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Tuesday.London can earn up to $150 million if he reaches incentives in the deal, which will put him under contract with the Falcons through the 2030 season.Highest AAV, current WR contractsDrake London’s four-year, $141 million extension makes him the NFL’s third-highest paid wide receiver by average annual value.The $35.25 million average annual value of London’s new deal makes him the NFL’s third-highest-paid receiver behind the Seattle Seahawks’ Jaxon Smith-Njigba ($42.15 million) and the Cincinnati Bengals’ Ja’Marr Chase ($40.25 million).Player : AAVJaxon Smith-Njigba : $42.15MJa’Marr Chase : $40.25MDrake London : $35.25MJustin Jefferson : $35MCeeDee Lamb : $34M…I wonder about Addison’s extension. Here are some comps …Comparative Snapshot: First 3 NFL SeasonsPlayer : Receptions : Receiving Yards : Receiving TDs : Role ProfileJordan Addison : 175 : 2,396 : 22 : Deep Threat / Co-Star WR2DeVonta Smith : 240 : 3,178 : 19 : Elite Route Runner / WR1BChristian Watson : 112 : 1,691 : 19 : Pure Volatility / TD DependentTee Higgins : 215 : 3,028 : 19 : Boundary Weapon / WR1BContract Market SummaryReceiver : Calendar Year Signed : Extension Value : Avg. Annual Value (APY) : Cap % At SigningDeVonta Smith : 2024 : 3 Years / $75M : $25.0M : 9.79%Tee Higgins : 2025 : 4 Years / $115M : $28.75M : 10.30%Christian Watson : 2026 : 4 Years / $110.5M : $27.63M : 9.17%What is a possible contract extension for Addison next year?Applying a 9% to 10% cap share target against the projected 2027 salary cap of $323 million establishes the baseline market framework for a multi-year deal:9.0% Cap Share Value: $29.07 million per year9.5% Cap Share Value: $30.68 million per year10.0% Cap Share Value: $32.30 million per yearPrediction?Total Baseline: 3 years / $90 millionAverage Annual Value (AAV): $30.0 million per yearCap Percentage at Signing: 9.28% of the $323M capGuaranteed Money: $34 million to $40 million fully guaranteed.I expect the team to ride it out this year and then look at it next year based on his performance.Again, we all know the rules, but in case someone is new:While navigating the open thread, just assume it’s sarcasmNo discussion of politics or religionNo feeding of the trollsLeave the gender hatred at the doorKeep the bad language to a minimum (using the spoiler tags, if you must)Speaking of which, if discussing a newer show or movie, please use spoiler tagsNo pictures that could get someone fired or in serious trouble with their employerIf you can’t disagree in a civil manner, feel free to go away

The Carolina Hurricanes are chasing the cup in the Stanley Cup Final. The series started Tuesday night at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh.After game 3 ended in a nail-biter overtime win for the Canes, the team is now in Vegas for games 3 and 4 at the T-Mobile Arena.No worries about cheering them on, there are a couple of watch parties while they're on the road and at home.Where to gather with other CaniacsThe Lenovo Center is showing away games on the videoboard inside the arena for games 3 and 4.Unfortunately, the Game 3 watch party at Lenovo is SOLD OUT!Tailgating is permitted in the Lenovo Center parking lots and is limited to the area directly in front of or behind your vehicleEvent tickets to watch inside are available for a $10 donation to the Carolina Hurricanes Foundation, with a 6-ticket limit for each purchase. Tickets are not available for resale and doing so could result in the cancellation of all Canes tickets, according to the Lenovo Center's website.Select discounted concession items will be available for purchase during the game. Fans will also get rally towels, which will be given away for Games 3 and 4. Parking is FREE for road game watch parties at Lenovo.Tailgating is permitted in the Lenovo Center parking lots and is limited to the area directly in front of or behind your vehicle.Smoky Hollow (Downtown Raleigh)Smokey Hollow has held a watch party through all the Stanley Cup Final games so far.Location: 500 N. West Street in Downtown Raleigh. According to its website, parking is limited, and they encourage using Rideshare for drop off and pick up.If you decide to host a watch party with family and friends, you can watch all games on ABC11 and get real-time updates in our live blog.The puck drops at 8:00 p.m. on game nights and you can watch live on ABC11.Download the ABC11 App for game updates and score

05 June 2026, USA, Chicago: Soccer: World Cup 2026, Germany national team, before the World Cup test match against the USA, preparation Chicago, Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala (r) in training. Photo: Federico Gambarini/dpa (Photo by Federico Gambarini/picture alliance via Getty Images) 48’: Bauman makes several impressive saves to deny the hosts the goal that would’ve put them in front.46’: We’re back for the second half, no changes from either side.Halftime ObservationsGermany has looked uninspiring even with the early goal.The USMNT looked even more threatening than Germany.Musiala and Sané have been disappointing. The whole team has been disappointing.45+4’: Half time.45+3’: The home side is pushing for a leading goal.45’: Three minutes added on.44’: Jonathan Tah deflects Christian Pulisic’s shot behind for a corner, which results in nothing for the home side.41’: Havertz is slipped in but his shot goes across the face of the goal.37’:Goal. Antonee Robinson volleys it from the corner and it goes past Oliver Baumann. Great goal.34’: Aleksandar Pavlović volleys it but takes a deflection off Musiala and it nearly goes in.32’: Sergiño Dest forces a corner for the home side. Germany then go on the break but Leroy Sané stumbles on the counter and the attack has been killed off.26’: Jamal Musiala is bodied and a foul is given in Germany’s favor.25’: The hydration break has ended.23’: Both teams pause playing for the hydration break.22’: Germany passing the ball around, still no breakthrough since the early goal.2’:GOOOAAALLL! Germany up 1-0. Joshua Kimmich chips in a perfect ball for an unmarked Kai Havertz to drive in the header.1’: LET’S GOOOOOOOOOO!!!German national team head coach Julian Nagelsmann is changing it up a bit for this match vs. the USMNT: Mit dieser Elf starten wir gegen die USA! 🔥#fifaworldcup#dfbteam 📸 GES, DFB/Thomas Böcker pic.twitter.com/QG7K76BAwT— DFB-Team (@DFB_Team) June 6, 2026USA XI against Germany 🇺🇸🇩🇪 pic.twitter.com/N4JMydO4uX— Bayern & Germany (@iMiaSanMia) June 6, 2026Germany conquered Finland 4-0 in their most recent friendly. That match was held in Germany, and now the team is in America to play against the co-hosts who beat Senegal 3-2 last time out.Die Mannschaft is gearing up to launch a bid to win the World Cup for the first time since 2014, and now they have the chance to show what they’ve got against formidable opposition.Match InfoLocation: Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois, USADate: Saturday, 6 June 2026Time: 1:30 PM Local time | 2:30 PM EDT | 11:30 AM PDTTV/streaming: TNT, Telemundo, Find Your CountryPredictionGermany wins 3-1 with goals from Nick Woltemade, Lennart Karl, and Deniz Undav. Folarin Balogun scores the goal for the USMNT.It’s Germany time.Match factsWhile waiting, may I interest you in some facts and stats about the two teams who’ll play today?(Taken from the match preview article)Three things to know about Germany:Germany is undefeated in their last eight matches, stretching back to the 3-1 win over Northern Ireland in the World Cup qualifiers.In the last meeting between the two nations, Germany won 3-1 in East Hartford thanks to goals from İlkay Gündoğan, Niclas Füllkrug, and Jamal Musiala.The last time that Germany failed to win the final friendly match before the World Cup proper was way back on 19 April 1978 when they were known as West Germany. That match ended in a 3-1 win for Sweden in Solna.Three things to know about the USA:The United States will host the World Cup for the first time since 1994, when they were the outright hosts.The Stars and Stripes have participated in every World Cup from 1990 to 2014 but missed out in 2018; they returned in 2022.The last time that the United States failed to win their final friendly match before the actual World Cup was back on 27 September 2022, a 0-0 draw against Saudi Arabia. If we’re talking about a defeat, it’s on 19 May 2002 which was a 2-0 defeat to the Netherlands in Foxborough, Massachusetts.While waiting for the match, do consider listening to the latest episode of Bavarian Podcast Works (more on that below) or you may read the selected reads below:Tips for commenting:If you’re a new member, feel free to introduce yourself! We’re mostly very friendly! Also, we’re from all parts of the world so don’t feel shy if you’re from a country that doesn’t seem represented on the blog.Use the on-screen “Refresh comments” button to periodically load new comments.Keep the sorting to “newest” to easily follow the conversation. It puts the newest comments at the top.While swearing is allowed within reason, please be polite to your fellow posters and avoid gratuitous obscenities. Racist, homophobic, and misogynistic language is not allowed whatsoever.If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast, Spotify, Apple, or any leading podcast distributor… Join the conversation!Sign up for a user account and get:New, improved notifications system!Fewer adsCreate community postsComment on articles, community postsRec comments, community posts

NBA fans are having a range of reactions to an eager fan running out onto the court during Game 1, just to take a picture with Victor Wembanyama. The game was halted as a result of the incident, with guards eventually taking the fan out of the court.Wemby himself seemed quite taken aback by the entire scene, looking at the fan’s phone and smiling. While many fans seemed pretty humored by the whole thing, others felt that the fan crossed a line, especially considering that this was the finals.“Bro ran on the court for a pic with Wemby (crying emoji x4)” X user ShowCaseShabazz tweeted, sharing a clip of the Wemby fan.Bro ran on the court for a pic with Wemby (crying emoji x4) pic.twitter.com/2BHUjJHnA1— Shabazz (@ShowCaseShabazz) June 4, 2026“He has no idea he’s risking lifetime ban and jail time.” one fan pointed out.“Bro saw Wemby and said ‘lifetime ban? Worth it’ Mitchell Robinson’s face is me trying to process 2026 reality,” another fan added.“90 days in jail or 100k in fines. MINIMUM. There are businesses, people, and billions of dollars tied to this game and every one like it. Can’t disrupt all of that for some random dumba**’s views.” One more fan called out.Jun 3, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) shoots the ball over New York Knicks forward Og Anunoby (8) in the second half during game one of the 2026 NBA Finals at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images. NBA FansThe fan’s actual identity has not been revealed so far, nor is it known if he finally managed to get a picture with Wemby in the first place. Still, the incident has left many condemning the fan’s actions, especially since the entire game had to be halted for quite a few minutes before it could be resumed again.NBA Fans Mock Mitchell Robinson For His ReactionMeanwhile, NBA fans were quick to note Mitchell Robinson’s surprised reaction to the fan storming Game 1 for a picture with Wemby. Robinson looked thoroughly puzzled at the fan’s actions, and instantly became meme material.Jun 3, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama speaks to the media after game one of the 2026 NBA Finals at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images. NBA Fans“Mitchell Robinson cannot comprehend the concept of it (laughing with tears emoji)” one fan said.“Mitchell Robinson’s reaction is so me, like what do you mean a fan ran onto the court (laughing with tears emoji x2)” another fan joked.“Mitchell Robinson’s face is sending me Bro looked like he just saw a glitch in the matrix,” one more fan said.The fan’s actions did not stop the Knicks from completely crushing the San Antonio Spurs with a 105-95 final score. Wemby managed a mere twenty-six on the board to lead the Spurs, while NY’s Jalen Brunson chalked up a thirty for the Knicks.Jun 3, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) shoots the ball against New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson (23) in the second half during game one of the 2026 NBA Finals at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images. NBA FansOf course, the entire ordeal was a major letdown for the Spurs, who will be hoping for a quick turnaround in the upcoming matchup. However, it looks like the gods of basketball have been teetering toward the Knicks throughout this tournament.

Vasco near deal for new main sponsor, the full picture 💡With the players on vacation during this early stage of the break in Brazilian football for the 2026 World Cup, Vasco’s board continues working.And the current focus is the deal with betting company SportingBet to become the new main sponsor.According to the Expresso 1923 channel, the contract will run until the end of 2027, with an option to renew for one more year.In April, negotiations had cooled because the Cruz-Maltino board considered the amount too low, and lower than what the club was receiving from Betfair through 2025, but talks have heated up again.Vasco has been without a main sponsor since the end of 2025, and this delay in signing with a new company was already causing discomfort behind the scenes at São Januário.This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 18: Loyola Marymount Lions guard Jan Vide (7) dribbles up the court during a college basketball exhibition game between the USC Trojans and the Loyola Marymount Lions on October 18, 2025, at Gersten Pavilion in Los Angeles, California (Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images Virginia’s 2026-27 roster continues to take shape as Ryan Odom looks out west once again for talent. Loyola Marymount transfer Jan Vide announced his commitment to the ‘Hoos earlier this week, becoming the 11th scholarship player in the program.Vide, a native of Slovenia, averaged 12.1 points, 4.0 assists, and 3.0 rebounds for a Lions team that finished 15-17 overall and ninth in the West Coast Conference at 6-12. He shot 45.3% from the field and 32.3% from beyond the arc. After one year at UCLA, and two at Loyola Marymount, the 6-foot-6, 210-pound combo guard likely arrives in Charlottesville with two remaining years of eligibility, given the pending “five in five” NCAA policy.While the raw numbers do not look overly impressive, Vide could be an asset in a specified role off the bench. In regards to the 2025-26 team, Vide profiles most similarly to Dallin Hall — a large, physical on-ball guard that can provide steady production on both ends without any standout tools. Vide is a capable scorer in a variety of ways around the rim and in the mid-range, with a three-point shot that is only utilized to keep defenses honest.Last season, Hall was asked to anchor the offense before freshman Chance Mallory was ready to take the keys. Now that the team fully belongs to Mallory, Vide is likely to settle into a much smaller role, serving primarily as a true backup point guard, providing relief minutes when needed. Vide’s volume stats are likely to take a hit, but as a distributor-first that can be more selective in shooting, he should become a more efficient player in a more suitable situation.Vide will be mixed into a UVA backcourt that already includes Mallory, Sam Lewis, Jurian Dixon, Christian Harmon, and Elijah Gertrude. As a whole, the pure shooting upside is slightly lower without someone like Jacari White, but in turn, the positional versatility is significantly greater. Gertrude, for example, can now realistically earn minutes at the one, two, or three spots, without any pressure to slot into a specified role. Meanwhile, Mallory will have opportunities to spot up off-ball, knowing that he will be surrounded by quality passers and creators. Odom’s second roster at Virginia appears to be predominately full, pending another add or two from the international ranks.

First-time homeowners transformed their 1800s Italianate home and color-drenched the dining room after extensive research to find a historically accurate color. They used a bold Roman Clay shade that they later found out was original to the house’s dining room, too — making it meant to be. READ MORE...

The college football world has closely followed the ongoing Brendan Sorsby court case against the NCAA. While a federal judge weighs a decision, Texas Tech recently appealed to the NCAA in an effort to secure Sorsby’s eligibility. As expected, the NCAA denied the request, leaving Sorsby’s fate in the hands of a Texas federal court judge.In many ways, the move was embarrassing for Texas Tech. Supporting a player and helping him navigate a difficult situation is one thing—that’s what programs should do. Doing the player’s public advocacy for him is another. For a program that aspires to compete with the likes of the Texas Longhorns, it comes across as a desperate and weak position.MORE: Brendan Sorsby’s Supplemental NFL Draft outlook is grimTexas Tech should have moved on from Sorsby the moment he admitted to gambling on his own team while at Indiana. That’s an inexcusable action with potentially serious consequences for the integrity of the sport. Sorsby’s attorneys can talk about student well-being all they want, but the reality is simple: a player who gambles on his own team should never play college football again.Cincinnati Bearcats quarterback Brendan Sorsby (2) warms up before the game against the TCU Horned Frogs at Amon G. Carter Stadium. Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn ImagesThe Red Raiders knew the details once they became public. This is not a case of a program standing by a player after being misled or deceived. Instead, Texas Tech appears to be acting in bad faith in hopes of retaining its starting quarterback. Sorsby’s actions are not the program’s fault. Refusing to move on from them, however, is.A school can support a student-athlete while also acknowledging harsh realities. Actions have consequences, especially when they undermine the integrity of competition. When one player acts selfishly, the fallout extends beyond himself and affects everyone around him. Those consequences are now Texas Tech’s to bear.MORE: Texas HC Steve Sarkisian warns about obvious growing issue in college footballThe Red Raiders may simply be delaying the inevitable. The odds appear stacked against Sorsby receiving eligibility. Even if a judge ultimately rules in his favor, Texas Tech should seriously reconsider whether he belongs in its football program. How can the coaching staff and administration fully trust him again—not only to lead the team, but to make sound decisions moving forward?Nov 1, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Cincinnati Bearcats quarterback Brendan Sorsby (2) passes the ball against the Utah Utes during the third quarter at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn ImagesIn almost any other era, and likely with almost any other player, Texas Tech would have dismissed him immediately. The difference here is that Sorsby plays quarterback, and a talented quarterback at that. Talent, however, should not excuse behavior that threatens the credibility of the sport.Regardless of how the judge rules, Texas Tech should move forward without Sorsby. Anything less would add insult to injury for a sport already fighting to preserve its integrity.

Olympic gymnast Simone Biles revealed on her Instagram on Saturday that she was hospitalized earlier in the week. Biles did not go into further detail, but did share, “Almost dying wasn’t on my bingo card.” The Olympic gymnast added that it was one of the scariest experiences of her life. She added that part of that was due to her husband, Jonathan Owens, being in Indianapolis for practices. Owens is an NFL safety and signed a one-year deal with the Indianapolis Colts this offseason. Play 2026 Soccer Pick 'Em with FOX One and make your picks for the world's biggest soccer tournamentBiles continued in her post that she has been resting in bed this week, but did add that she will explain the circumstances “sooner or later.” The gymnast has not indicated anything about what caused her experience. Biles earned four medals at the Paris Olympics in 2024. She is 29 years old but has not ruled out competing in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. While that is in the future, Biles will focus now on continuing to recover. The Olympian posted a story on Saturday from her bed at home with the caption, “I’ll be here,” and with one of her dogs on either side of her.

"A childhood dream has come true" – Ouédraogo reacts to late Germany World Cup call-upAfter heading to Spain for a holiday at the start of the week, Assan Ouédraogo saw his plans change suddenly on Friday when he was called up to replace the injured Bayern Munich star Lennart Karl in Germany’s World Cup squad.In an interview with his club, RB Leipzig, the 20-year-old central midfielder reveals he needed some time to process the fact that a childhood dream had come true.“I got the call from the national team coach on Friday evening while on holiday. When [Germany coach] Julian Nagelsmann told me I was now part of the squad, I needed a moment to take it in and realise what had happened before going and packing my things straight away. It is a huge honour and makes me very proud to represent Germany at the World Cup,” Ouedraogo said in the interview.“A childhood dream of mine has come true – one I have worked hard for, especially over the past few months and years. I’m looking forward to my role in the team and want to help the lads as much as I can, both on and off the pitch."Ouédraogo also wished Lennart Karl all the best after the 18-year-old’s World Cup dream ended with a muscle tear in training on Friday."I would like to wish Lenny a speedy and full recovery. I feel very sorry for him that he got injured so close to the tournament and can’t be involved. Alongside the joy I feel, I also sympathise with his situation greatly. I wish him all the best from the bottom of my heart and hope he is back out on the pitch soon."Ouédraogo scored in his first – and so far only – game for Germany's senior national team in November. Shortly afterwards, he suffered a knee injury that kept him out for several months before he gradually returned towards the end of the 2025/26 campaign.

PROVIDENCE – The Mt. Hope Huskies are champions once again.Behind a complete team performance and a dominant finish, the Huskies swept Exeter-West Greenwich on Saturday, June 6, to secure their second boys volleyball championship in program history and their second consecutive Division III state title."I felt nothing but happiness and pride for my team," Huskies senior captain Matthew Moran said about the win. "With the way we were playing coming in, being back-to-back champions was something we strived for all season."That last point, I was so happy. I just looked up at the scoreboard, saw the margin, and knew my boys were going to get it done."What do these back-to-back titles mean for such a young program?"It means so much. There's a very small chance that back-to-back state titles can happen with a program like this, considering it's such a new program. No [Mt. Hope] team had made it past the semis until last year. It's a huge accomplishment, and I'm so proud of everyone involved."Heading into the match, the Huskies and Scarlet Knights were both on a hot streak. Mt. Hope came in after back-to-back sweeps of Mount Pleasant and Hope, while EWG earned a sweep of St. Raphael in the semifinals. With the two squads combining for just six losses throughout the season and both playing impressive volleyball down the stretch, the matchup had all the makings of a championship-caliber battle.Despite being a young program, with its inaugural season coming in 2014, Mt. Hope has quickly risen to prominence as one of the state's top programs. EWG was making its first championship appearance since 2022, with the Scarlet Knights looking to capture their first title since 2006 (the program's lone championship).The two teams had faced off earlier in the season, with Mt. Hope winning a tight match in five sets. The Huskies entered Saturday's rematch as the favorite, and the stage was set for a great matchup.The first set began with a point for Mt. Hope, and the battle was on. Back-and-forth volleyball ensued, with each side trading two- and three-point runs. EWG fought hard and kept it close, led by another impressive performance from junior Zoltan Libertini. After a long, hard-fought first set, the Huskies took a 1-0 lead, winning the tightly contested frame 25-21.Things started to look different in the second and third sets, however. The Huskies began to flex their size and skill as senior Dylan DeOliveira and junior Jackson Gould started to take over the match. Before the Scarlet Knights knew what hit them, Mt. Hope had claimed the second set in dominant fashion, highlighted by thunderous spikes from the Huskies' big hitters.EWG gave it their all, but Mt. Hope was a different animal in the third. Smelling blood in the water, the Huskies raced out to a 5-0 lead and never looked back. The final set was never in doubt. As senior Logan Toste subbed in and stepped to the service line with the Huskies holding match point, Mt. Hope closed out the match 25-9, completing an impressive performance and securing its second consecutive state championship.The Huskies have a team spirit and sense of camaraderie that is evident to anyone who watches them play. "We have all been playing together since freshman year," senior libero Arion Ferris said. "I remember my brother got us all into it. We got Matt into it, Dylan into it, the other guys into it, and this chemistry has just built up over time. Just being able to be here with these boys for four years, and now winning two years, you get along when you do great."For the Scarlet Knights, this season is nothing to hang their heads over. The squad put together an impressive run for a smaller school and was led all season by standout performers such as Libertini and sophomore Casey Kretchman, both of whom will be back for next year's campaign. Despite a significant size disadvantage, EWG played with plenty of heart and left everything out on the court Saturday.Looking forward, don’t be surprised if these two teams are back at it in the future. The Huskies will be losing their talented senior class but also retaining several key players, and they'll look to three-peat. EWG will also retain many key athletes from this squad that have proven they can play with anyone.This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Score from the 2026 RIIL Division III Boys Volleyball Championship

Antonee Robinson scores scorching volley from outside 18-yard-box for USMNT in World Cup tune-up vs. Germany originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Known for his swash-buckling antics on the left flank, Antonee Robinson has emerged as one of world football's better left backs in recent years.On Saturday, the United States Men's National Team defender showed why. Facing off against the mighty Germans in the U.S.'s final tune-up match before the World Cup, Robinson dazzled, slaloming beyond the likes of Joshua Kimmich and Leroy Sane to power the Americans' upset efforts.In the latter stages of the first half, Robinson got his just rewards for a fine performance, bursting the net with a fiery volley from well outside the box.Here's what you need to know about Robinson's eye-catching goal against Germany.MORE: Live USMNT player ratings vs. GermanyAntonee Robinson goalThe Americans leveled things up at one with a stunning strike from Robinson in the 37th minute. The left back caught a hold of a bouncing ball, whipping the lofted effort above Oliver Baumann's outstretched arm.RIP IT AND FLIP IT! A WORLDY FROM JEDI!#USMNT x @VWpic.twitter.com/3rXxlvHSLz— U.S. Soccer Men's National Team (@USMNT) June 6, 2026It was Robinson's second goal in as many international matches. He found the target in the USMNT's 3-2 win over Senegal on May 31. The fullback's teammate couldn't help but show their delight with his finish, greeting Robinson with hands on their temples and mouths agape.Antonee Robinson goal celebrationRobinson rounded off his fifth international score in style, completing a backflip that was eerily reminiscent to efforts from the likes of Mary Lou Retton and Dominique Dawes. Suffice to say, his celebration had the soccer world talking.Flipping for his FIFTH international goal!!JEDI!!!! pic.twitter.com/BP4YJJyShf— U.S. Soccer Men's National Team (@USMNT) June 6, 2026Who does Antonee Robinson play club for?Robinson plies his trade for Fulham at the club level. A Milton Keynes, England native, Robinson settled in White Plains, NY and later became a citizen. He has emerged as one of the English Premier League's finest fullbacks since joining the London-based club from Wigan Athletic in 2020. He was named Fulham's Player of the Season in 2023-24 and U.S. Soccer Player of the Year in 2025.Across 158 Premier League appearances, Robinson has one goal and 17 assists.United States World Cup scheduleThe U.S. will kick off its World Cup run with a matchup against Paraguay on June 12 at 9 p.m. ET. The match will take place at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., the home of the NFL's Rams and Chargers.If the United States advances out of Group D, its Round of 32 contest will take place between the days of June 29 and July 3.DateCompetitionMatchLocationTime (ET)TVStreamingFri, Jun. 12FIFA World Cup Group DUSA vs. ParaguaySoFi Stadium (Inglewood, CA)9 p.m.FOXFuboFri, Jun. 19FIFA World Cup Group DUSA vs. AustraliaLumen Field (Seattle, WA)3 p.m.FOXFuboThu, Jun. 25FIFA World Cup Group DUSA vs. TurkeySoFi Stadium (Inglewood, CA)10 p.m.FOXFuboJun. 29-Jul. 3FIFA World Cup Round of 32*USA vs. TBDTBDTBDFOXFuboJul. 4-7FIFA World Cup Round of 16*USA vs. TBDTBDTBDFOXFuboJul. 9-11FIFA World Cup Quarterfinals*USA vs. TBDTBDTBDFOXFuboJul. 14-15FIFA World Cup Semifinals*USA vs. TBDTBDTBDFOXFuboSun, Jul. 19FIFA World Cup Final*USA vs. TBDMetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, NJ)TBDFOXFubo

AO Manchester Thunder are the first team to book a place in the Netball Super League Grand Final after beating London Pulse on Saturday.The four-time champions held on for a 60-56 win in the major semi-final to ensure they will return to the NSL showpiece after missing out last year.Reigning champions London have another chance to reach the title decider in Manchester, though, as they will now face Loughborough Lightning in the preliminary final.Loughborough beat Nottingham Forest 77-57 in the minor semi-final earlier on Saturday, so they and London will battle it out next week for the right to take on Manchester at Co-op Live on 20 June.Thunder claimed a last-gasp win over Loughborough in last week's regular-season finale to snatch top spot and condemn Lightning to a third-placed finish.It also secured home advantage for this week's clash with runners-up London, and Thunder burst into a 15-8 lead at the end of the first quarter at Manchester Velodrome.Pulse trailed 30-24 at half-time and then 43-39 at the end of the third quarter, but Thunder opened up a nine-point buffer midway through the final quarter and held their nerve during the closing stages.Eleanor Cardwell, who played in each of Thunder's previous Grand Final wins, rejoined the team this season as she continued her recovery from a serious knee injury.The England shooter, 31, has struggled to get back to her best but was named player of the match having led from the front with 23 goals."She was really dominant in that attack end so I'm really proud of her," said Thunder coach Karen Greig."What a game. Pulse really brought it to us. There were ebbs and flows, a few wobbly moments, but ultimately the girls kept their heads."After Loughborough led 35-28 at half-time in the earlier game, they outscored Nottingham by 11 in the third quarter to take charge and go into the final quarter with a 56-38 advantage.It was billed as a battle between this season's two leading shooters, and Loughborough's Trinidad and Tobago international Samantha Wallace-Joseph claimed 38 goals while Nottingham's Rolene Streutker had 19.Jo Noel, who came out of retirement for Lightning earlier this year, was named player of the match for stifling South Africa's Streutker."Our defence did a great job of limiting what they could put up there," said Lightning head coach Vic Burgess."We've said that it's three finals to lift that trophy so we can't take our foot off the gas. We'll be getting straight on to it next week."'Pavlova' back on England course as Forest eye glory

Arsenal Are Eyeing A Move For This Bournemouth Winger: What Will He Add To Arteta’s Side?In a recent report, Fichajes revealed that Arsenal are eyeing a move for Bournemouth winger Rayan this off-season. It has been stated that the Gunners are keeping a keen eye on the Brazilian wide player ahead of a potential move for him this summer.Rayan’s Impressive Rise At Bournemouth Last SeasonRayan managed to shine with his performances on the right side of Bournemouth’s attack in the previous campaign. The 19-year-old found the back of the net seven times and earned a couple of assists in 16 matches for the Cherries last season on all fronts.The Brazilian talent is currently among the most talented young wingers in the Premier League. Hence, it is no surprise that the Gunners are eager to snap him up this summer.His current contract at the Vitality Stadium will run out in the summer of 2031, which could make it tough for Arsenal to sign him on the cheap later this year.RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – MAY 31: Rayan of Brazil celebrates after scoring the team’s third goal during the international friendly match between Brazil and Panama at Maracana Stadium on May 31, 2026 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)What Will Rayan Add To Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta’s Side?Rayan has got the pace to cause a lot of problems for his marker out in the wide areas. He is a decent dribbler with the ball at his feet and has got the eye to play some killer passes in and around the opponent’s penalty area.The Brazilian youngster can shoot the ball with power from long range and can chip in by scoring and creating a few important goals for his team. Rayan is primarily a right-winger but can also fill in as a left-sided wide player or play in the number ten position if needed. He has already got some experience in the Premier League and won’t take much time to adjust to life at Arsenal.Rayan would add more pace and goals to Mikel Arteta’s attack in the long run. He has what it takes to fight for a regular first-team place at the Emirates Stadium next season.At 19, the future looks quite promising for Rayan as long as he continues to improve with each year. He has the potential to be a world-class wide player someday. Therefore, Arsenal would do well to get a deal over the line for him in this summer transfer window.

Brighton Land £21.5m Winger Nigerian WingerBrighton Secure £21.5m Deal for Yohanna ZadokSeagulls Move Early for Attacking SparkBrighton have once again moved with the confidence of a club that knows exactly what it wants. Their agreement to sign Yohanna Zadok from AIK Stockholm for £21.5m feels very much in keeping with a recruitment model that has become one of the most admired in European football.The 18-year-old Nigerian winger is expected to join on a five-year contract, with the move set to be finalised when the summer transfer window opens on Monday, 15 June. For Brighton, this is another statement of intent. Not necessarily in the loud, chest-beating sense, more in the clever, calculated fashion that has defined their rise.Yohanna arrives with a growing reputation, five goals and four assists in 18 appearances for AIK Stockholm since making his debut in August 2025. Those numbers matter, of course, especially for a teenager operating in senior football. What matters more is the profile. Brighton have identified a player with pace, flair and final-third imagination, qualities that can shift games when structure alone is not enough.Hurzeler Excited by Yohanna ZadokFabian Hurzeler’s comments give a clear sense of why Brighton have acted now.“I’m looking forward to working with Zadok,” said Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler. “Having seen his games and his attributes, he is a player that can impact games in the final third.Photo IMAGO“He’s still young, and will need time to adapt to the club and Premier League, but he’s an exciting player to watch and he brings the kind of creativity we know our fans will enjoy.”That line about adaptation is important. Brighton are not buying the finished product. They are buying possibility, and perhaps more crucially, they are buying time. A five-year deal gives both club and player the space to develop properly.Nigerian Roots, Swedish RiseYohanna’s journey from Ikon Allah Football Academy in Nigeria to AIK Stockholm is the kind of pathway Brighton have tracked so well in recent years. They have rarely been afraid of looking beyond the obvious market, trusting data, scouting and player development to do the work others often ignore.There is a particular intrigue here because the Premier League can be unforgiving for young attackers. The pace is sharper, the defenders stronger, the tactical demands heavier. Yohanna will need patience, coaching and carefully managed minutes.Brighton’s Transfer Model Keeps EvolvingBrighton’s move for Yohanna Zadok reinforces a familiar theme. They are prepared to invest serious money in youth when the ceiling is high enough. £21.5m is not a gamble in the old romantic sense. It is a calculated bet on talent, resale value and tactical fit.For supporters, the appeal is obvious. Yohanna brings directness, creativity and a sense of unpredictability. For Hurzeler, he offers another tool in wide areas, another player capable of breaking defensive patterns.Brighton have built their reputation by seeing what others miss. In Yohanna Zadok, they clearly believe they have found another young player ready to grow into something far bigger.

Subscribe to The Kevin O'Connor ShowApple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTubeKevin O'Connor deep dives into the Knicks 105-104 win against the Spurs in Game 2 of the NBA Finals. Can San Antonio do what has never been done and overcome an 0-2 Finals deficit at home? Or is New York truly just two wins away from becoming NBA champions?Up next, KOC is joined by NBA insider Chris Haynes from the NBA Finals to discuss the biggest NBA offseason rumors. The pair talk Giannis trade destinations, the NBA Draft and more.Then, DeAndre Jordan of the New Orleans Pelicans joins the show for a breakdown of the evolution of the big man and why international players have recently been so dominant in the NBA.Later, NBA Draft prospects Bennett Stirtz & Aaron Nkrumah join to discuss their unique play styles and what they hope to achieve at the next level in the NBA.(0:59) Knicks take 2-0 lead vs. Spurs in Finals(20:43) Chris Haynes talks NBA offseason rumors(30:01) DeAndre Jordan on NBA big men(39:02) Bennett Stirtz talks his NBA aspirations(57:55) Aaron Nkrumah on his journey to the NBA DraftNew York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) yells during the second half of Game 1 of the NBA Finals basketball series against the San Antonio Spurs, Wednesday, June 3, 2026, in San Antonio. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)(AP Photo/Eric Gay)🖥️ Watch this full episode on the Yahoo Sports NBA YouTube channelCheck out all episodes of The Kevin O'Connor Show and the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

[Reuters]Iran has accused the US of denying visas to "integral" members of its national football team's backroom staff, hours after Washington confirmed Iranian players had been given permission to travel to the upcoming World Cup.US officials said visas had been issued to all players and "necessary support staff" on Friday, 10 days before Iran's opening fixture in Los Angeles on 15 June.They also said Iran would not be allowed to "abuse this system to sneak terrorists into the United States under false pretences".Iran's embassy in Turkey accused the US of "politically biased interference in sport" by denying visas to a "large portion of the managerial and executive staff" and "technical advisers".Iranian state-linked media said the head of the football federation and his deputy were among those were denied entry to the US.The team set off from their training base in Turkey on Saturday en route to Mexico, where they will be based for the tournament, and are expected to land in the early hours of Sunday after a 20-hour flight.A statement described the US announcement as a "whitewash", adding: "You have now escalated the deliberate and discriminatory treatment against Iran's national football team to its highest level."Iranian embassy officials called on Fifa, football's world governing body, to intervene. The 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico, begins on 11 June, with Iran securing their place by finishing top of their qualification group in March 2025, almost a year before war broke out.It will be the first iteration of the competition to see a host nation receive the team of a country it is at war with. In late May, Iran moved its training base to Mexico from Tucson, Arizona.Earlier this week, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told lawmakers Iran's football delegation would not be allowed to include individuals linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guards - a powerful branch of the Iranian armed forces.Several players in the Iranian squad have completed mandatory military service with the group. Iran are also due to play Belgium in California and Egypt in Seattle in their other two group games. Additional reporting from Bernd Debusmann Jr. Fifa World Cup 2026: What you need to know about Iran

Some Texans fear “the nightmares and the horrors” of a potential screwworm outbreak. Elsewhere, not enough grass to feed cattle sends them to market earlier.

The late Charlie Kirk (October 14, 1993 – September 10, 2025) was an American political activist, entrepreneur, and media personality. In 2012, he cofounded the conservative student group Turning Point USA (TPUSA) and served as its executive director until he was assassinated in 2025. The story of his death sent shockwaves throughout the nation.Now a photo of him with a two-time Super Bowl champion quarterback has been leaked and garnered a massive amount of media attention.Also Read: Breaking: Chicago Bears Announce Name Change Decision Amid Move To Indiana (Report)Turning Point CEO Charlie Kirk speaks during the Turning Point USA’s Young Latino Leadership Summit at the Arizona Biltmore Resort in Phoenix on April 18, 2021.Two Time Super Bowl Champion Quarterback Photographed With Charlie KirkCharlie Kirk was a football player before he became a right-wing political commentator. In high school, Kirk practiced alongside former NFL quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo. The two men grew up in Illinois and attended high schools nearly 20 minutes apart.As a student at Wheeling High School, Kirk participated in both football and basketball. At Rolling Meadows, Garoppolo was a three-sport athlete, playing football, baseball, and basketball. Here is the photo:Charlie Kirk and Jimmy Garoppolo in high school. pic.twitter.com/3EliXYcMhA— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) June 6, 2026After high school, Garoppolo played college football at Eastern Illinois before being drafted by the Patriots in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft.Garoppolo was traded to the 49ers in 2017.During the 2019 season, he threw for 3,978 yards and 27 touchdowns to lead the 49ers to the Super Bowl.In the end, San Francisco lost to the Chiefs, which ignited the ongoing dynasty in Kansas City led by Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes.Unlike his former training partner, Kirk did not go on to play college football, but videos have recently surfaced showing Kirk’s arm strength, showing that he was capable of slinging the football 50 yards or more. Fans immediately reacted to this photo:Bro hittin the Randy Orton poseGood form Nice base I know buddy was throwing hot onesI was a year older than them. I was at Elk Grove high school. All played in the same conference the MSL East. Had the privilege to compete against them on the field with respectWait… Charlie Kirk and Jimmy Garoppolo throwing routes together in high school? This is wild. Two Illinois kids on the same field one ends up slinging politics, the other slinging touchdowns in the NFL. Life really comes at you different. Cool throwback pic!Related Reading:“No Way…” Super Bowl 61 Halftime Performer Favored To Be 32-Year-Old Millionaire“Smirked Then Did It Again” NFL Star Sees Arrest Video Released, Laughs In Cop’s Face (Watch)“Lifted Me By My Neck” NFL Star Sees Disturbing Details Of Arrest Leaked To Public Look: Dan Marino Pledges His Allegiance To Donald Trump (Photo)“Denied” Elite College Football Quarterback Banned From 2026 Season (Report)Breaking: NFL Sees Elite College Football QB Enter League Months After 2026 Draft (Details) “This Is So Bad” Mike Vrabel Sees Patriots Star Player Admit To “Leaking Secrets” (Video)The post “Look At His Pose” Charlie Kirk Photo With 2-Time Super Bowl Champion Quarterback Leaks To Public appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.

Tampa Bay shifts Steven Matz to relief role following struggles in rotation originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Tampa Bay Rays are making a change to their pitching staff, moving veteran left-hander Steven Matz from the starting rotation to the bullpen after a pair of disappointing outings that saw his season ERA rise to 5.48.The move was announced Saturday after Matz struggled in consecutive starts, including a difficult performance against the Detroit Tigers on Tuesday. The 35-year-old allowed five runs on six hits, including two home runs, in just 1 2/3 innings during Tampa Bay’s 8-0 loss. Matz threw 53 pitches before manager Kevin Cash elected to remove him from the game. Cash was particularly concerned with a drop in the velocity of Matz’s fastball, which averaged 92 mph compared to his season average of 93.3 mph. Matz, who is 4-3 on the season, has struggled to find consistency in recent weeks. Opposing hitters have posted significantly stronger numbers against him during his last several appearances, while his strikeout rate has declined and hard-contact rates have increased.The Rays had hoped Matz could provide stability in the middle of the rotation after joining the club, but his recent struggles have forced the organization to reconsider his role. Cash indicated that the bullpen move will allow Matz to focus on shorter outings while the team evaluates its starting-pitching options moving forward.Matz’s rotation run ends Last game highlighted how Detroit’s offense jumped on Matz early Tuesday, collecting six extra-base hits in the first two innings and putting the Rays in a hole they never escaped. Despite the setback, Matz has experience pitching in relief. He worked out of the bullpen at times during previous stops with the St. Louis Cardinals and has shown the ability to be effective in shorter stints.The Rays hope the transition will help Matz regain his form and provide valuable depth as the club pushes through the middle portion of the season.More MLB news:5 reasons to believe in Jordan Walker's breakout for CardinalsRoman Anthony might’ve been overhyped for Red SoxChase Burns becomes first Reds pitcher with elite stat line since 1922Yankees’ Aaron Judge on track to become first player in MLB history with five 50+ homer seasonsPhillies’ Aidan Miller finally beginning baseball activities amid back injury

Portugal beat Chile 2-1 in Lisbon on Saturday in the first of two World Cup warm-up matches, only prevailing after Cristiano Ronaldo's substitution.Gonçalo Guedes, who came on for Ronaldo at half-time, scored in the 58th minute and Bruno Fernandes added the second in the 75th. Lucas Cepeda pulled one back in stoppage time for Chile, who have not reached the World Cup.The match was somewhat overshadowed by two red cards shortly before half-time for Portugal's Rafael Leão and Chile's Ivan Roman. The two had clashed in a scuffle.Portugal play their final World Cup warm-up match on Wednesday against Nigeria and open their campaign against the Democratic Republic of the Congo on June 17 in Houston.

Which teams are the New Orleans Saints' greatest rivals? Which matchups get fans to circle dates on their calendars and make travel plans to pack the visitors' stands? Some picks are more obvious than others, but we've carefully considered the criteria to highlight which teams Saints fans hate the most:Frequency. It isn't a rivalry if you only play each other every five years. The Saints are celebrating their 60th anniversary in 2026, so we're trimming the list down to teams which played against New Orleans at least 30 times.Competition. Again, it isn't a rivalry if just one team is running the show. You want to see both teams giving as good as they get. Parity matters. The closer to .500, the better.Significance. What about playoff games? Who has had more opportunities end each other's season? When all else is equal, this can be a deciding factor.We're admittedly stretching the definition of a rivalry when looking at almost a third of the NFL's teams, but it's worth pointing out when the Saints have more shared history with some franchises than others.Honorable mention: Arizona CardinalsThe record: 16-17 (1-0 in the playoffs)Win percentage: .485 in 33 games (including playoffs)Scoring differential: +10Last meeting: 20-13 Cardinals, in New Orleans (Week 1 in 2025)Next game: Sunday, Dec. 27 at the Caesars SuperdomeThe Saints and Cardinals have met up 32 times in the regular season, with Arizona outscoring the black and gold 742-721 and winning 17 times. But all it took was one playoff game in a historic season to tip the scales. The Saints won in dominant fashion on their way to Super Bowl XLIV, powered by three Drew Brees touchdown passes to three different players (Jeremy Shockey, Devery Henderson, and Marques Colston) and two huge scores from Reggie Bush. The former second overall pick ripped off a 46-yard touchdown run before returning a punt 83 yards to help close out the game. 10. New York GiantsThe record: 17-17 (no playoff games)Win percentage: .500 in 32 gamesScoring differential: +15Last meeting: 26-14 Saints, at New York (Week 5 in 2025)Next game: Sunday, Oct. 18 at MetLife StadiumYou may not think of the Giants right away when listing the Saints' rivals, but it's been as close a series as they've had against any other team. The lack of playoff action keeps them beneath other contenders, too, but one of those "what if" scenarios we'll always have to wonder about is whether the Saints could have kept New York from winning a Super Bowl back in 2011. The Giants blew out the Atlanta Falcons 24-2 in the Wild Card Round, then stunned the No. 1-seed Green Bay Packers on their home turf before outlasting the San Francisco 49ers in the conference title game. If the Saints had scored last a week earlier in San Francisco, they would have gotten to host the Giants themselves. And with a dominant 49-24 win on Monday Night Football over that same Giants team earlier that season, you'd have to like their chances.9. Philadelphia EaglesThe record: 16-20 (3-1 in the playoffs)Win percentage: .444 in 36 games (including playoffs)Scoring differential: -71Last meeting: 15-12 Eagles, in New Orleans (Week 3 in 2024)Next game: TBD in 2027 at Lincoln Financial FieldHere's another competitive series. The Eagles won six in a row from 1992 to 2003, but each side has traded blows in the decades since, and just one team has played the Saints more often in the postseason than Philadelphia (who we'll get to shortly). Whether it was Deuce McAllister pushing the pile without his helmet, Reggie Bush taking a huge hit (and staying in the game to win it) on a screen pass, or Nick Foles throwing a last-minute interception to Marshon Lattimore, this one has had plenty of big playoff moments. We didn't even mention the Saints winning their first road playoff game in Philly.8. Tampa Bay BuccaneersThe record: 41-28 (0-1 in the playoffs)Win percentage: .594 in 69 games (including playoffs)Scoring differential: +201Last meeting: 24-20 Saints, at Tampa Bay (Week 14 in 2025)Next game: Sunday, Dec. 20 at Raymond James StadiumYeah, the least-competitive series the Saints have had with their NFC South neighbors doesn't make the top-five. To their credit, the Bucs have fought hard to make this feel like a rivalry by winning six of the last eight matchups and sending Drew Brees into retirement with a playoff loss. Dirty play from guys like Mike Evans and Ryan Jensen has given these games a real edge (and so has Baker Mayfield's bad attitude). But the Buccaneers still have a lot of work to do to make it feel like these teams are competing on equal footing.7. San Francisco 49ersThe record: 27-51-2 (0-1 in the playoffs)Win percentage: .350 in 80 games (including playoffs)Scoring differential: -429Last meeting: 26-21 49ers, in New Orleans (Week 2 in 2025)Next game: TBD 2027 or 2028 at Levi's StadiumIt's the opposite problem for San Francisco -- while the Buccaneers have been outscored by a wider margin than any other Saints opponent, the 49ers have run up the score more badly than anyone else. New Orleans was just stuck on the wrong end of too many Jerry Rice touchdown passes from Steve Young and Joe Montana over the years. That pivotal 2011 Divisional Round loss (sparked by a dirty hit against Pierre Thomas on the opening drive) arguably cost the Saints a Super Bowl. There's generations of bad blood here. Depending on how each team performs in 2026, the Saints could visit San Francisco in 2027, meaning back-to-back West Coast trips with an away game already scheduled for 2028.6. Chicago BearsThe record: 19-16 (1-2 in the playoffs)Win percentage: .543 in 35 games (including playoffs)Scoring differential: -15Last meeting: 26-14 Bears, at Chicago (Week 7 in 2025)Next game: Sunday, Nov. 22 at Soldier FieldIs it a hot take to put the Bears over the 49ers? We made that call based on the more-competitive win percentage and more extensive playoff history between the two teams. Those irresponsible Bears fans who chose to bring signs saying they would "finish the job after Katrina" into the 2006 NFC Championship Game permanently shifted the energy in this series. Saints fans are eager for wins now that Chicago has brought in the Saints' much-maligned former head coach Dennis Allen.5. Dallas CowboysThe record: 14-18 (no playoffs games)Win percentage: .438 in 32 gamesScoring differential: -27Last meeting: 44-19 Saints, at Dallas (Week 2 in 2024)Next game: TBD in 2027 at the Caesars SuperdomeHere's a fun one. Proximity has made this series a fun rivalry with some families split between Saints fans and Cowboys fans; markets are split, too, with Shreveport in northwest Louisiana often getting the Dallas broadcast when there's a game on in New Orleans at the same time. Shared coaching connections add some juice to it, too, with Sean Payton and Kellen Moore both coming up on the Cowboys staff before taking over the black and gold. That it's been such a competitive series on top of that just makes these games more exciting.4. Minnesota VikingsThe record: 12-21 (1-4 in the playoffs)Win percentage: .342 in 38 games (including playoffs)Scoring differential: -243Last meeting: 27-19 Vikings, in Minnesota (Week 10 in 2025)Next game: Sunday, Oct. 11 at the Caesars SuperdomeNow we're getting to the bigger names. No team has squared off with the Saints more often in the playoffs than Minnesota, and the Vikings have beaten the Saints more often than anyone else, too. Ten years and six losses passed between the Saints' first and second wins against the Vikings, and New Orleans only beat them twice in both the 1980s and 1990s. Drew Brees has been the Saints' quarterback in half of their all-time wins against Minnesota. Despite that lopsidedness, you can't ignore how big a moment it was for Brett Favre to throw the 2009 NFC title game away, and it's fitting that the Saints finally got past the Vikings to win their first Super Bowl.3. Carolina PanthersThe record: 34-29 (1-0 in the playoffs), Win percentage: .540 in 63 games (including playoffs)Scoring differential: +104Last meeting: 20-17 Saints, in New Orleans (Week 15 in 2025)Next game: Sunday, Nov. 15 at the Caesars SuperdomeThe Saints have had the kind of rivalry game with Carolina that Tampa Bay wishes they had. It's been competitive almost year in, year out with a contentious decade centered around Cam Newton's Panthers team. New Orleans has won five of the last six matchups but the one loss got Dennis Allen fired. It's so fitting that Panthers star Luke Kuechly is going into the Pro Football Hall of Fame alongside Drew Brees, and that these two teams share the legacy of legendary linebacker Sam Mills.2. Los Angeles RamsThe record: 35-46 (1-1 in the playoffs)Win percentage: .432 in 81 games (including playoffs)Scoring differential: -183Last meeting: 34-10 Rams, at Los Angeles (Week 9 in 2025)Next game: TBD in 2027, or 2028 at the Caesars SuperdomeA more-competitive history with the Rams lifts the Saints' old NFC West rival above the 49ers, and the role L.A. played in benefiting from the 2018 NFC No-Call boosts them past other teams on this list. Los Angeles has won five of the last six matchups between these two teams but it was as back-and-forth as it gets from the 2000 season onwards (in which the Saints' ended the Rams' season with their very first playoff win). And like the 49ers, the Rams are another potential 2027 opponent on the road if they and the Saints end up with the same divisional standings in 2026. Either way, they'll meet again for a home game in New Orleans during the 2028 season.1. Atlanta FalconsThe record: 56-58 (0-1 in the playoffs)Win percentage: .491 in 114 games (including playoffs)Scoring differential: -78Last meeting: 19-17 Falcons, at Atlanta (Week 18 in 2025)Next game: Monday, Oct. 5 at the Caesars SuperdomeCome on -- you knew who would be here. The Saints and the dirty birds may not have the NFL's oldest rivalry (like the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers), or its most publicized (like the Pittsburgh Steelers versus Baltimore Ravens), but it's the most heartfelt and underrated. It's the closest thing the NFL has to a college football-style grudge match. New Orleans and Atlanta flat-out dislike each other, and the product on the field reflects that. Hopefully the Saints can pull off a season sweep to tie it up again in the all-time standings.This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Ranking Saints top 10 rivals from Falcons and Rams to Vikings, Cowboys

Mirra Andreeva's catchphrase was written on the front and back of her black jacket [Getty Images]"I want to thank myself."That was the phrase emblazoned on Mirra Andreeva's jacket as she lifted her first Grand Slam trophy at the French Open.After a dominant 6-3 6-2 victory over Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska that made the 19-year-old the youngest woman to win the Roland Garros singles title since Monica Seles in 1992, Andreeva rattled off a lengthy list of thank yous.She started by showing her gratitude to Chwalinska, before moving onto tournament organisers and her team - including her coach, former French Open finalist Conchita Martinez.But Andreeva reserved the final - and most important - thanks for herself."I also want to thank myself for believing in myself," she said."For giving 100% even when it's been tough, trying every day to be better as a person and a player, believing I can do this, fighting so many demons inside of me."Only I know how tough it was for me and how nervous I was these past two weeks, so thanks to me for working so hard and giving my best."Andreeva has thanked herself after many of her title triumphs - a twist on a quote she "stole" from rapper Snoop Dogg."In the beginning I just said it so everyone would laugh at how funny I am," Andreeva joked."Then after I realised: why not thank yourself? Because you are the one that works, you are the one doing the job, you're the one that's feeling all the nerves."Andreeva wins French Open as Chwalinska fairytale ends'18 years of patience and perseverance' pay off for ChwalinskaHow 'a big stop sign' helped overcome outburstsA world number one in juniors, Andreeva has long been tipped for Grand Slam success.However, she was sometimes hindered by emotional outbursts on court that took her focus away from the match in front of her.Last year, Andreeva combusted in her Roland Garros quarter-final defeat by home hope Lois Boisson in front of a partisan crowd, while she smashed a racquet and swore at the crowd at Indian Wells just a few months ago.That kind of behaviour has not been on show at this year's Roland Garros.Even in the final, when Chwalinska's unpredictability coupled with the blustery conditions posed problems, Andreeva kept her composure to deliver a remarkably mature performance.Another one of the teenager's thank-yous went to her psychologist, Alexis Castorri, who previously worked with Andy Murray. She said he had told her to "imagine a big stop sign" when her emotions threatened to come to the fore."My psychologist says you can always choose how you're going to be on the court, how you're going to play and who you're going to be as a person as well. I decided to choose to be a fighter," she said."I watched a lot of Roger [Federer's] matches here. No-one is going to have the same aura but I really want to try to impersonate the way he behaves on the court."Maybe that helped me because I wanted to look good on the court, not be frustrated or not happy with how I play."'Very special' to share win with coach ConchitaMirra Andreeva and Conchita Martinez started working together in 2024 [Getty Images]The first person Andreeva turned to hug when she clambered up to the players' box after her victory on Court Philippe Chatrier was Martinez.A Wimbledon winner in 1994, Martinez has overseen all five of her title triumphs on the WTA Tour since she joined her team in 2024.So loyal is the teenager to Martinez that she jokingly aimed a dig at Mary Pierce - who beat the Spaniard in the 2000 Paris final - as she presented Andreeva with the trophy.The pair have a real bond. Away from the practice courts and gym, there are pranks and endless games of Uno, while Andreeva cheered Martinez on during an invitational match at Wimbledon last year - equipped with a tennis-themed straw hat and a homemade 'Let's go Senorita' sign."We've been through so many good moments and some bad moments, especially at the end of last year," said Andreeva, who struggled for form after reaching the quarter-finals at SW19 last season."She told me she's very proud of me. To hear those words from her is very, very special to me."French Open Daily: Andreeva cruises to French Open glory'Excited but not satisfied' - what next for Andreeva?The future looks bright for Andreeva, who is the first player born after 2005 to lift a Grand Slam trophy. She has found her comfort zone on the clay this season, winning 22 of her 25 matches - more than any other player on the WTA Tour - on the surface.Maria Sharapova, the last Russian woman to win a major singles title, said Andreeva is showing the "signs of a champion.""Proud of you Mirra Andreeva. The celebration says it all. Excited, but not satisfied," Sharapova posted on Instagram.Andreeva echoed Sharapova in her post-match news conference."I'm already thinking of how I'm going to prepare for the grass season and how I'm going to play," she added."I feel like this thing is a little bit addicting. I really want to do my best to experience all of this for the second time."Live scores, results and order of playGet tennis news sent straight to your phone

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Craig Bellamy has overseen 20 matches since taking charge of Wales in the summer of 2024 [Getty Images]Craig Bellamy says his Wales side have to be better after they were beaten 2-1 by Romania in Bucharest.Florinel Coman and Adrian Rus netted either side of David Brooks' 63rd-minute goal at Stadionul Steaua to earn Gheorghe Hagi his first victory since being appointed as Romania boss in April.Bellamy could not hide his disappointment after Wales' record of failing to win an away friendly since 2008 continued."Disappointing," Bellamy said in his post-match press conference."There were some good bits, but there were some negatives as well. We need to be better."He added: "I felt we didn't create the opportunity enough to get into the final third and create consistent chances."We had one or two exceptional chances of course, but we were in too much build-up deep, and that's not what we look for."We want to break lines and be attacking the defence on a regular basis."I just thought we were slow moving the ball at times which didn't help us, so I'm disappointed."Romania 2-1 Wales: Reaction after Rus heads hosts to victoryWales had 57% of possession in Bucharest and managed nine shots on target.But the likes of Ethan Ampadu, Brennan Johnson and substitute Lewis Koumas were guilty of spurning chances.Defeat means Wales are without a win in four matches in 2026, with their stunning 7-1 triumph over North Macedonia in November the last time Bellamy's men tasted success.His side return to action in Nations League A - where they face Portugal, Denmark and Norway - later this year.Wales goalscorer Brooks says the team need to be "miles better" in that campaign."We were not good enough, not at all," Brooks told BBC Match of the Day Wales."We need to watch it back and try and take some positives out of it."We kept the ball quite nicely, but we lacked penetrating passes."We played in the wrong areas. We need to be miles better in the Nations League and in the next camp."Like father like son - international goals run in the family

Manchester United Are Preparing To Launch A Move For This West Ham United Ace: Decent Fit For Carrick?In a recent post on X, Italian journalist Gianluigi Longari stated that Manchester United are preparing to launch a move for West Ham United ace Mateus Fernandes. It is believed that the Red Devils are planning to move in for the Portuguese midfielder in this summer transfer period.Fernandes’ Up-And-Down Season In English FootballFernandes managed to prove his worth at times for the Hammers in the middle of the park, but failed to help them avoid relegation from the Premier League. The 21-year-old registered three goals and secured four assists in 36 league matches for West Ham last season in all competitions.The Portuguese whizkid is currently one of the most talented young central midfielders in English football. Thus, the Red Devils would do well to get a deal done for him this summer.Fernandes’ current contract at the London Stadium will expire in the summer of 2030, which could make it tough for Man United to sign him on the cheap later this year.LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 24: Mateus Fernandes of West Ham United applauds the fans after the Premier League match between West Ham United and Leeds United at the London Stadium on May 24, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)Will Fernandes Be A Good Fit For Manchester United Boss Michael Carrick?Fernandes is a solid tackler of the ball and can sense the danger well to secure possession back for his team at the centre of the park. He usually clears the danger when needed and is a good passer of the ball.The Portuguese sensation generates some power with his shot attempts and is full of energy and running in the middle of the park. Fernandes is primarily a box-to-box midfielder but can also act as a defensive midfielder or operate in the number ten position if asked to do so. He has already gotten a taste of Premier League football and won’t take much time to adjust to life at Man United.Fernandes would bring more quality and depth to Michael Carrick’s midfield. He has what it takes to challenge for a regular first-team spot at the Theatre of Dreams next season. Furthermore, the Portuguese talent would serve as a good replacement for Casemiro at the Mancunian club.At 21, the future looks quite bright for Fernandes, so Man United should consider going all out to sign him this summer. He will also help the Red Devils compete across all competitions in the coming years. Hence, Fernandes would be a great fit for Carrick’s needs in the long run.

NASCAR team owner Richard Childress had pointed to this weekend at Michigan International Speedway to announce that two-time series champion Kyle Busch would be back with Richard Childress Racing (RCR) next season.Busch died unexpectedly May 21 from complications related to severe pneumonia, devasting the NASCAR community. Childress spoke Saturday at MIS in his first public comments since Busch's death and shared how emotional the situation has been. Childress and his team also experienced the loss of seven-time Cup champion Dale Earnhardt, who died in a crash at the Daytona 500 in 2001.The NASCAR Cup series is competing at the two-mile MIS oval on Sunday in the FireKeepers Casino 400, the third points race since he died. Austin Hill is driving the RCR car, which has been renumbered to 33 from Busch’s No. 8, at MIS.“It's challenging,” Childress told reporters. “You lose two of the greatest drivers that's ever driven a car in NASCAR, and now having to go through it again. I just feel so bad for the family and the RCR employees.“I haven't slept very well. I'll leave it at that.”With General Motors located in Detroit, Childress said MIS was the perfect location for his plan to announce Busch would be driving a Chevrolet for his team next year.“I talked to Kyle Tuesday night, before everything went down Wednesday night and Thursday, and we had a great conversation,” Childress said during the news conference. “He said, ‘You give me cars like you gave me the last three weeks and I will make the Chase this year.’ We were that confident. Both of us had a lot of confidence in this team. We haven't had the year that any of us expected or wanted. We started out like gangbusters, and it just didn't go as we expected. We've had a lot of opportunities, and we just didn't finish them off.”Busch had 234 victories across NASCAR’s three national series, with 63 in the Cup series, 102 wins and a championship in the Auto Parts Series and 69 Craftsman Truck series wins. He won Cup series titles in 2015 and 2019. Busch won two Cup races at MIS.The track plans to honor Busch before the race with a moment of remembrance, a No. 8 logo in the infield grass and a tribute on Lap 8.“Kyle Busch was a totally different person when he was away from the track,” Childress said. “He wanted to win. He was driven by winning, hard work and doing everything that he could do to help the team.“We had other plans. The sad part for me looking back, knowing what Dale Earnhardt had in mind and the plans he had for his future, and then sitting and talking to Kyle at different times, knowing his plans and what he had in the future for him, (his son) Brexton and his family and the many things that we all could have done together, that was probably the toughest part of this whole thing.”Kurt Busch, Kyle’s older brother, was a first-ballot inductee into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, class of 2026. He had 34 Cup victories and won the 2004 series title. Kurt Busch is a member of the NASCAR Hall of Fame, having been inducted as part of the Class of 2026. He was enshrined as a first-ballot Hall of Famer in his first year of eligibility, honored for an illustrious 23-year Cup Series career that includes the 2004 NASCAR Cup Series Championship and 34 Cup Series victories.Kyle Busch, undoubtedly, will join his brother among the sport’s elites.“Kyle Busch will go down in history as one of the greatest drivers there’s ever been,” Childress said. “He'll be in the Hall of Fame. I'd love to see them put him in it right away. He helped RCR when we needed him. He came right in, and we won three races the first part of the year. We had a lot of opportunities to win other races, but we just didn't finish and capitalize on them.“He was a man that a lot of people thought he was tough to deal with and that we wouldn't last long, but he was a man that loved this sport. He loved it so much that he wanted to see his family carry it on. To watch what he had going on with Brexton — I would go to Millbridge and watch them race together and just see the enjoyment in Kyle's eyes watching his son race was just unbelievable. His legacy will be in history. He'll go down as one of the greatest drivers of all times. He's won over 200 races. All of us are going to miss him. You all are going to miss having him in here after a win.”angelique.chengelis@detroitnews.com@chengelisThis article originally appeared on The Detroit News: NASCAR team owner shares his heartbreak after Kyle Busch's death

The Seattle Storm initially looked as if they might score an upset win on Saturday over the Minnesota Lynx, who currently hold the WNBA’s top record. But the Lynx rode a third-quarter surge on their way to their seventh straight win with an 88-68 victory.Seattle began by taking a 12-4 lead with Stefanie Dolson hitting three 3-pointers. After a Dominique Malanga midrange jumper, the Storm were ahead 21-9 and ended the first quarter with a 24-16 lead. From there, the Lynx took control of the game. From the closing minute of the first quarter to midway through the second, Minnesota went on an 18-6 run to go ahead 30-27. Seattle tied the score on a 3-pointer by Awa Fam and the two teams traded leads four times before the Lynx took a lead into halftime on two straight baskets from Olivia Miles. Play 2026 Soccer Pick 'Em with FOX One and make your picks for the world's biggest soccer tournamentOut of halftime, the Lynx went on a 10-0 run to take a 12-point lead and didn’t give up the advantage from there, outscoring Seattle 26-10 in the third quarter. The Storm never got closer than within 15 points through the fourth quarter. Natasha Howard scored a season-high 27 points to lead Minnesota, adding five rebounds, three steals and two blocks. Olivia Miles added 19 points with six rebounds and six assists, following up on her record-setting performance on Thursday night.For the Storm, Natisha Heideman and Jade Melbourne each scored 14 points. Rookie Flau’jae Johnson followed with 10 points and six rebounds. But Saturday’s defeat dropped Seattle to 3-9, the WNBA’s second-worst mark. The Lynx improved their record to 9-2, 1.5 games ahead of the Dallas Wings for the best record in the WNBA. Minnesota is accustomed to fast starts, holding four of the nine best starts to a season in league history. With two losses already, the 2026 Lynx won’t match the 13-0 start of the 2016 team. But with another four consecutive wins, they could match the 2016 squad’s 13-2 start. The 2017 Lynx started 9-0 before improving to 20-2 on their way to winning the WNBA championship. With seven straight wins, this year’s Minnesota team still trails the 2016 squad for the longest winning streak in franchise history with 13 straight. (The Lynx also won 13 consecutive games going from the 2011 to 2012 seasons.) The WNBA record for longest winning streak is held by the 2001 Los Angeles Sparks, who won 18 games in a row. Minnesota will try to keep its streak going on Tuesday, hosting the Wings for an 8 p.m. ET tip-off at the Target Center.

The United States played Germany on a hot and occasionally rainy afternoon in Chicago. Photograph: John Dorton/USSF/Getty ImagesReady or not, here comes the group stage.The US men concluded their pre-World Cup preparations with a 2-1 loss against Germany on Saturday at Soldier Field, in front of a lively sellout crowd of 63,636. The fans made their way to the historic venue on a Chicago summer afternoon which alternated palpable heat with occasional drizzling rain.Antonee Robinson scored the United States’ only goal on a thunderbolt volley, with German goals coming on either side.Much of this cycle has been messy for the US, but Saturday’s showing validated this group’s readiness less than a week from Group D kicking off.There are still questions about how to adequately get service to the nimble Balogun, who managed to make just 20 touches in 72 minutes as he was marked closely by the burly Jonathan Tah. Christian Pulisic and Sergiño Dest struggled to make much of an impact from the wing, a testament to Germany’s structure and eagerness to close the US down before they could gain a head of steam.Even after conceding, the US seldom appeared to switch off and make compounding mistakes, which in itself showed progress from March’s friendlies against Belgium and Portugal.Germany wasted no time in setting a dominant tone. After Tyler Adams committed a foul near the box, Joshua Kimmich sent in a curling indirect free kick. Some clever screening separated Kai Havertz from his mark (Tim Ream) while Miles Robinson lingered a step behind the Arsenal midfielder. Havertz comfortably prodded an unobstructed header from inside eight yards beyond Matt Freese, doubling a damping effect on the home faithful that coincided with a brief passage of rain.Clouds parted around the 12th minute, opening the US’s first strong passage of play after Havertz’s’ opener. Pochettino’s side operated with a free-flowing structure; Dest made another proactive interpretation of his wing-back role, with Alex Freeman often operating more as a right-back than part of a center-back trio. The US competently retained possession for extended sequences and showed determination to make quick regains whenever Germany forced a loose ball. However, a long shot from Dest flew over the bar, while subsequent attempts were blocked and hopeful crosses were cleared away before finding their target.The 23rd minute cooling break halted momentum. The game struggled to regain its verve, with some ambitious passes going unconverted and both teams exchanging chippy fouls.At last, Antonee Robinson sent the host’s fans into rapture. Robinson lingered just outside the box as a corner kick looped his way after an initial header. The Fulham defender struck the ball before it hit the ground, sending a powerful volley beyond Oliver Baumann for his fifth international goal.The Germans continued to play with considerable physicality. Tim Ream was brought down near his neck at one stage, while Pulisic was briefly on the ground clutching his back after a tackle from behind by Leroy Sané. Chilean official Piero Mazo – who is not among the referees for the World Cup – let both teams get a shoulder or foot in without many blows of his whistle, frustrating the home fans at time as Germany entered half-time without a yellow card. Overall, there was plenty of encouragement to be found from how the US responded to an early deficit.Both sides kept all eleven starters on the field to open the second half, with Germany’s defensive structure making it tricky for the US to further threaten Baumann.The job was made harder after Germany took the lead. A quick through-ball from Jamal Musiala found Sané in the channel, a half-step ahead of a trailing Tyler Adams. Sané placed his shot to the far post beyond a diving Freese before Miles Robinson could converge, restoring Germany’s one-goal advantage in the 57th minute.The substitutions kicked off at the hour mark, weakening the US’s high-pressing cohesion and leading to some muddled off-ball movement in possession. Freese was the only starter to play the full 90 minutes, seeming to quell questions about who will start in goal for the World Cup after Pochettino split duties between Matt Turner and Chris Brady in the previous warm-up match against Senegal.As teams continued to change personnel, the game settled into a slower back-and-forth cadence. Both goalkeepers were tested in the final quarter-hour without conceding, while Sebastian Berhalter impressed with his movement across the field, tidiness in possession, and occasional flashes of his technical prowess around the box. Even in the final half-hour of a 2-1 defeat, the Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder made a strong case to start against Paraguay.The US bench largely cleared in Weah’s defense after the Marseille winger a sliding challenge on David Raum, which Nico Schlotterbeck and Tah took umbrage with as they tried to confront Weah. The crowd certainly appreciated the tackle, which Weah won, loudly cheering and chanting “U-S-A” as Mazo attempted to resume play.In a sense, that eagerness to defend Weah was just as encouraging a revelation as anything short of Robinson’s goal. For all the tumult that has typified this cycle, the US nears the World Cup at its most cohesive, bought into Pochettino’s approach with just one player (Richards) in medical limbo.Few could accuse the tournament co-hosts of embarrassing themselves against a pair of teams that hope to reach the quarter-final or further. All that’s left now is the grand occasion.

Chattanooga Baylor School (Tenn.)’s facilities earned numerous praises on social media today, serving as the basecamp for the Spain 2026 World Cup squad. Four elite private schools are currently being used as base camps for teams in the buildup to the tournament.[ $19.99 gets you a FULL year of On3 | Rivals national coverage ]Spain, one of the tournament’s favorites, is hosting an open training session at the ground today. Currently ranked second in the world by FIFA, the defending European champions kick off their World Cup campaign a week from Monday against Cape Verde.“Doesn’t get much nicer than the Spain national team’s training ground for the FIFA World Cup Team will be on the Baylor School campus at 5 and out on the field at 6 ET for training. They were already on campus this morning at 11 to check out all the facilities.” Times Free Press writer Patrick MacCoon shared on social media.The Times writer has also shared the entire process throughout the week, including the national team’s arrival in Chattanooga, with World Cup stars like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams being spotted in Tennessee.Chattanooga is also not the only high school being used as a basecamp for World Cup squads. Alexandria Episcopal (Va.), San Diego Jewish Academy (Calif.), and Martinsville The Pingry School (N.J.) are all hosting Croatia, Switzerland, and Morocco, respectively.“A lot of countries came in and looked, and there was a lot of interest. But when Spain wanted to be here, that narrowed it down quickly.” Baylor’s head of school, Chris Angel, revealed in an interview with Front Office Sports.The hosts of the European champions, the Red Raiders, had a wildly successful season in 2025. Finishing the season as the TSSAA’s Division II-AAA state champions after a 28-24 victory over Brentwood Academy (Tenn.). They also finished the season ranked No. 1 in the final 2025 Tennessee High School Football Massey Rankings.Additionally, their roster boasts some of the best prospects in the country. With four-star class of 2027 quarterback talent Keegan Croucher, who has committed to Ole Miss, as well as a four-star class of 2028 wide receiver Antwaun Adams, who also has an offer from the Rebels.Following their wildly successful 2025 season, Rivals has already predicted the Red Raiders to go 10-0 next season and defend their TSSAA Division II-AAA state crown.Before their preseason scrimmage against one of the top-ranked sides in the nation, Buford (Ga.), on August 7, their facilities will continue to be utilized by the Spanish national team for the duration of the 2026 World Cup.

Simone Biles; social media post from Simone BilesCredit: Jose Oliva/Europa Press via Getty;Simone Biles/InstagramNEED TO KNOWSimone Biles revealed that she recently experienced a terrifying health scare“This was one of, if not the scariest experience of my life,” she wrote on her Instagram Stories alongside a photo of her arm covered in patient wristbands from the hospitalThe gymnast said she's since been “in bed resting” while leaning on support from her close friends and familySimone Biles revealed that she recently faced a terrifying health scare. On Saturday, June 6, the gymnastics star, 29, shared a photo of her arm covered in patient wristbands from the hospital while explaining that she has been “in bed resting this week” after experiencing one of the worst health scares of her life. “I'm not one to normally share things like this because I value privacy in today's age,” Biles wrote on her Instagram Stories. “But almost dying wasn't on my bingo card earlier this week.”“This was one of, if not the scariest experience of my life. Especially since Jonathan [Owens] was in Indy for practices," she continued.Simone Biles on her Instagram StoriesCredit: Simone Biles/InstagramOwens, who married Biles in April 2023, signed a one-year deal with the Indianapolis Colts in March 2026. At the time, Biles said she was “excited to call Indy home” during the upcoming football season. “I've been in bed resting this week, I'll explain sooner or later but s/o to my close circle who reached out, checked in, visited & or sent flowers,” Biles continued on her Instagram Stories. “Loooovveeee y'all.”In the following posts, the Olympic athlete shared two photos of flower bouquets sitting on a counter in glass vases as she continues to recover from her near-death experience. Another snap showed Biles lying in bed with her two dogs alongside a screenshot of her resting heart rate and the caption, “I'll be here.”Follow your favorite athletes on and off the field with PEOPLE's free sports newsletter — sign up now!Simone Biles on her Instagram StoriesCredit: Simone Biles/InstagramBiles' post about her health scare comes just two days after she gave her 11 million followers a look into her bedroom and outdoor kitchen at her custom-built Texas mansion while hinting that she was following the doctor's orders by enjoying some rest and relaxation."Breakfast in bed. Just what the doctor ordered," she wrote over a photo of herself holding a plate of eggs, toast and sausage in bed. One day before that, she put her gymnastics on full display by sharing a rare video of herself performing stunts in a red bikini amid her break from the sport. Alongside a video of herself performing a series of flips on her massive in-ground trampoline with fellow gymnast Zoe Miller, Biles wrote, "Summer nights playing stick it ❤️🌹💃🏾🍓."Read the original article on People

SAN ANTONIO — The New York Knicks entered the 2026 NBA Finals with basketball's hottest, most overwhelming offense, averaging a scorching 126.7 points per 100 non-garbage-time possessions — a rate of offensive efficiency that would've led the NBA in every season of the league's existence.Through two games against the San Antonio Spurs, though, the Knicks are averaging 108.8 points-per-100 — a rate that would've ranked just below league-average during the regular season.This is what it is to play the Spurs: a smothering, suffocating phalanx of positional size and applied physicality. Long arms, quick feet and active communication everywhere you look, all geared toward rudely dispossessing you of the basketball — or, failing that, sending you hurtling into the 7-foot-4 event horizon stationed in front of the rim.Victor Wembanyama, to put it mildly, is a massive defensive issue for the Knicks to address, both literally and figuratively, in this series. But one of the defining characteristics of Mike Brown's team has been its ability to find creative solutions.Led by Jalen Brunson (left) and Karl-Anthony Towns, the New York Knicks' offense has an awful lot of ways to solve the problems that defenses cause. (Wu Xiaoling/Xinhua via Getty Images)Xinhua News Agency via Getty Images"We've got a group that, we just — you know, whatever circumstances are looking at us, facing us, we just try to make it work," Knicks swingman Landry Shamet said. "Try to solve problems."That's exactly what they did late in the second quarter of Friday's thrilling 105-104 Game 2 win, on a possession that highlighted just how much effort and energy it takes to generate good looks against this Wembanyama-led Spurs defense. It also represented something close to the ideal operation of this Knicks offensive approach — one that, as Brown has described, is predicated less on proscribed play calls and more on adherence to certain offensive principles and concepts."Everybody grows in their journey, and being an assistant in Golden State helped out a lot — almost everything they do is conceptual," Brown said during a Zoom conference call with reporters between Games 3 and 4 of the Eastern Conference finals. "When you get to the playoffs, everybody, first of all, knows exactly what play is coming. So, if I were sitting here going, 'Two up! Two up! Two up!' every single one of our opponent's assistants would be like, 'Pick-and-roll coming. This guy's doing it. This [defender], shrink! Tuck in!' They know ahead of time exactly what's coming, and the game is physical, so they're gonna really bump you to mess with your front-court pace, and it's gonna disjoint you offensively."If you can understand, 'OK, hey, let's get the flow. Let's play in flow, and it's read-and-react based off where the ball goes and where bodies go,' now it's a lot harder for their staff to help them ahead of time. Now, they have to have an elite defense in order to know that, 'I need to play it this way, because he may come off of the pindown, but I need to play it that way, because he may come off the flare.' And you're on an island by yourself. All five guys are. And they have to stay connected on their own, without any help."If this offensive philosophy sounds familiar to you, it might be because last season you watched the Indiana Pacers boat-race the Knicks and the rest of the Eastern Conference with it, and get within one win of an NBA championship on the strength of it."I think obviously, us trying to figure out how we can be the best team we can be, we needed to be able to adapt," Knicks superstar Jalen Brunson said during the conference finals. "Even though Indiana was really good at it, I don't think that I was necessarily thinking about that — just more focused on, how can we win games? And I think earlier in the playoffs, to be able to adapt, that was needed. Then we have that, and we can go back and forth with what style of offense we want to play. I think we have the personnel and the character to do it."Elite defenses like San Antonio's can stay connected amid all that fluidity, variety and versatility. But it's really, really hard to do it over and over and over again; eventually, the wall of water's just too heavy to hold, and the dam's going to spring a leak.The play begins with swingman Landry Shamet sprinting out of the left corner. Shamet's in the game because Josh Hart had picked up his third foul about a minute earlier — a flagrant-1 for reaching out to grab Devin Vassell's ankle as he went for a loose ball after a Hart turnover — and because, well, Shamet's been absolute nails for the Knicks ever since re-entering the rotation in Game 3 against Philadelphia, averaging 11.5 points in 22.4 minutes per game, making 23 of his 34 3-point attempts (67.6%).This torrid run has validated the trust Brown's had in Shamet — who didn't re-sign with the Knicks until mid-September, and who had to scrap it out in training camp just to earn a roster spot — as a shot-maker, ball-mover and hard-nosed defender, all year long."I talked about him to [Knicks team president] Leon [Rose] specifically during my interview process," Brown said before Game 2. "Trying to get him signed and locked up on this team as soon as possible is something that was really important to me."Shamet curls around Towns and cuts across the foul line before backpedaling to the dunker spot on the opposite side, with Spurs forward Keldon Johnson giving chase. Shamet's cut clears out the left corner, giving Brunson and Towns an empty side of the floor to go to work in the two-man game.That's dangerous for the Spurs, who've seen Towns dominate his minutes in this series thanks partly to how the threat of his 3-point shot — which he's knocked down at a 48.1% clip in this postseason — both demands attention on the perimeter and opens his driving game, even when it's Wembanyama who's the one stepping out to check him up top."Yeah, obviously having somebody like KAT is a difficult cover," Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox said. "That's what everybody tries to do, is pull Vic away from the basket. Obviously him being in the paint, greatest player to ever be — when he's standing there, you feel the gravity. You feel teams kind of see him there and decide to do something else."Wembanyama guarding Towns is an automatic signal to the Knicks to do something else — namely, bring him into the action. Towns sets a high ball screen for Brunson, and the Spurs attack it. Dylan Harper ducks under Towns' screen, while Wembanyama leaps out on the right-hand side to keep Brunson from getting a clear driving lane to the baseline.While Harper gets back in front of Brunson and Wembanyama rotates back toward the paint, Julian Champagnie — who'd started the play guarding OG Anunoby, before switching assignments with Devin Vassell and taking Mikal Bridges when he and OG flipped spots on the weak side — slides over to pick up Towns, taking away a clean look at a pick-and-pop 3-point shot.The Spurs have taken away Karl-Anthony Towns' pick-and-pop 3. (Screenshot via NBA)OK: That's one job done for the San Antonio defense. The bad news: There's still 11 on the shot clock.Brunson drives hard to his strong left hand, gaining a step on Harper while Wembanyama drops back. As Brunson approaches the elbow, Bridges begins to flash to the middle — a read that the Knicks have been making to try to give Brunson pressure-release valves when the Spurs (and, before them, the 76ers and Cavaliers) put two defenders on the ball against New York's All-NBA point guard. Vassell slides in to stay connected to him; when both Brunson and Bridges break the paint, the middle of the floor is completely wadded up, with four defenders in the lane to actively prevent Brunson from getting a shot off.The Spurs have totally packed the paint against Jalen Brunson's drive. (Screenshot via NBA)OK: That's two stops.Still nine on the shot clock, though.The Knicks' shooters have relocated on the weak side, with Anunoby lifting from the corner to take Bridges' place in the slot and Shamet dropping from the dunker to the corner. An airborne Brunson kicks to Shamet, who's been absolutely lethal from the corners — 12-for-17 in the playoffs, 70.6% — and, as a result, draws an "oh, crap" hard closeout from Johnson. Shamet quickly reads that and drives hard to the middle, blowing past the onrushing Johnson and generating another paint touch.By the time Shamet gets into the lane, the Knicks have completely decongested that wadded-up spacing. Brunson has flowed from the paint to the right corner; Anunoby and Towns have repositioned themselves above the break; Bridges has taken his cut all the way from the right slot to the left corner, where he's now Wembanyama's responsibility.The Knicks quickly re-spaced the floor as Landry Shamet drove. (Screenshot via NBA)"We have to try to keep touching the paint, trying to spray it if Wemby comes," Brown said. "If you're open, let it fly."And if you're not? Then keep it moving — quickly.As Shamet kicks it to that left corner, Bridges is running into the catch, understanding that he's got to move fast to get an angle on the rotating Wembanyama. He beats the Defensive Player of the Year to the lane, drawing the help of Johnson as the low man on the weak side. As soon as Bridges sees Johnson, he knows he's got an open man, Brunson, in the corner. The Spurs are ready for that one, too — Vassell rotates from Anunoby up top down to Brunson, able to contest a shot if one goes up.Fantastic: another job well done.After the Knicks reverse the ball, Devin Vassell closes out on Jalen Brunson, who is already starting to pass. (Screenshot via NBA)Alas: Still a little more than three ticks left.Before Vassell's even fully in front of him, Brunson has already swung the ball to Anunoby, who drives past Champagnie's closeout to generate a fourth paint touch in a 7.5-second span. Anunoby goes right at Wembanyama, who has stepped up to contest a layup; that, unfortunately, means that there's nobody tracking Bridges, who has relocated yet again. That's him in the corner; that's him in the spotlight.After four separate drives, paint touches and sprays out to a shooter, Mikal Bridges winds up with a wide-open corner 3. (Screenshot via NBA)The pass hits Bridges' hands with 0.8 seconds left on the shot clock. He hops into the catch; his feet are set at 0.6. The ball's off his fingertips at 0.2; it splashes through as the shot-clock buzzer sounds.It's the kind of offensive possession this Knicks team was designed to generate. And it took a lot of work to get here — both on the court, and in the locker room."It's my job as a coach to fit whatever scheme we have on both sides of the floor to all of our players, and if you're a great player, I've got to make a little bit more adjustments or I've got to give a little bit more than you do," Brown said Friday. "And we finally got to a point where [Towns] was comfortable, I was comfortable, Jalen was comfortable, OG was comfortable, Mikal was comfortable. And to me that's what the regular season is about. The regular season is about finding your way so you can prepare for this time of the year, and there's going to be a lot of ups and downs."And I hope there's adversity. I hope like hell there's adversity. Because we have to see if we're strong enough, when it comes to being connected, to see if we can get through it during the regular season. So when we get here, anything we run into, we've already conquered during the regular season and we'll know how to handle it."Handling the strain and stress that scoring against Wembanyama and Co. place on you is an awfully big challenge; the Knicks won't be able to do it every time down the floor. But they can do it, and when they do it like this — forcing the Spurs to cover all that ground, make all those closeouts, expend all that energy expended, all just to give up three points …… you'd understand if that feels pretty demoralizing."They made some really tough shots, shots at the end of the shot clock," Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson said after the game. "I thought that affected our approach at times, and took away from just trying to play our brand of basketball.""They're a great team. I think they got here for a reason," Harper said. "The brand of basketball they play, I think, second to none.""Obviously, this team, and the way they shoot the ball, the way they move the ball … we have to figure out a way," Fox said.The Knicks expect San Antonio to come up with new answers, and a renewed spirit, before the ball's tipped back up on Monday."Knowing them, there's going to be another level," Brunson said. "We have to be prepared and be ready to match it and play for 48 minutes. No matter what goes on in the game, we have to have each other's back, what's going on, who is on a run, what's not, who is up, who is down, making sure we are playing together for 48 minutes is really important."If the Spurs can find some answers in time for Game 3, though, it's a pretty decent bet that the Knicks will have counters waiting. In Brown's first season on New York's bench, "figuring out a way" has kind of become the Knicks' thing."Drive, kick, make the right reads, share the ball. That's our team," Shamet said. "If there's a guy open, we're gonna make that pass. Make that play. Trust each other. We do that. We did that a number of times — search for the best shot, the best look for each other. And Mikal knocked a big shot down in the corner."Simple as that. Right, Jalen?"I mean, we were just reading and reacting," Brunson said. "We were playing off each other."And then: a little shrug and the trace of a smile."We saw the same thing you did."