6 hours ago
Stephen A. Smith had Shaquille O'Neal on his show to talk about Dunkman, the alternative league to bring back a spectacle that the All-Star Game has lost touch with. So he took the chance to take aim at LeBron James for causing it. While acknowledging James' legendary status as he enters his 24th NBA season, Smith firmly laid the blame on the superstar forward for single-handedly destroying the prestige of the NBA All-Star Weekend's Slam Dunk Contest.
Smith argued that prior generations of icons set an expectation to entertain the fans on Saturday night, a culture he believes James dismantled by refusing to participate.
"Listen, I gave a lot of respect. And I've said this on many occasions, LeBron, when it's all said and done, we pay tribute to him and his greatness that spans more than 23 years, 24 years coming up, etc., etc.," Smith declared. "But the one thing I've religiously held against him is his unwillingness to compete in All-Star weekend because, to me, all the stars always did it.
"Kobe [Bryant] included, Vince Carter included, everybody. They all did it until he refused to enter the dunk contest. And then after that, every other stars followed and they wouldn't compete. Am I wrong about that?"
He probably expected Shaquille O'Neal, who never participated in the Dunk Contest himself, to agree. But Shaq offered a minor defense for James.
#james #shaquille #lebron
Smith argued that prior generations of icons set an expectation to entertain the fans on Saturday night, a culture he believes James dismantled by refusing to participate.
"Listen, I gave a lot of respect. And I've said this on many occasions, LeBron, when it's all said and done, we pay tribute to him and his greatness that spans more than 23 years, 24 years coming up, etc., etc.," Smith declared. "But the one thing I've religiously held against him is his unwillingness to compete in All-Star weekend because, to me, all the stars always did it.
"Kobe [Bryant] included, Vince Carter included, everybody. They all did it until he refused to enter the dunk contest. And then after that, every other stars followed and they wouldn't compete. Am I wrong about that?"
He probably expected Shaquille O'Neal, who never participated in the Dunk Contest himself, to agree. But Shaq offered a minor defense for James.
#james #shaquille #lebron
4 days ago
The Carolina Panthers have just added another hog molly to their training camp.
As announced this afternoon, the team has claimed offensive tackle Ryan Hayes off waivers from the Tennessee **** ans.
The 6-foot-6, 303-pounder was a two-time second-team All-Big 10 selection at the University of Michigan in 2021 and 2022. He'd enter the pros as a seventh-round pick of the Miami Dolphins in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Hayes would go on to pick up additional stints with the Indianapolis Colts (2023), Dolphins (2023 to 2024), Atlanta Falcons (2025) and **** ans (2026). His lone regular-season appearance came in 2024, during his second stop for Miami.
Earlier this morning, the Panthers waived guard Joshua Gray and added offensive tackle Derrell Bailey—an undrafted rookie out of Georgia State University. The 6-foot-6, 320-pound Bailey was one of six players who worked out for the team on Thursday.
#team #bailey #offensive
As announced this afternoon, the team has claimed offensive tackle Ryan Hayes off waivers from the Tennessee **** ans.
The 6-foot-6, 303-pounder was a two-time second-team All-Big 10 selection at the University of Michigan in 2021 and 2022. He'd enter the pros as a seventh-round pick of the Miami Dolphins in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Hayes would go on to pick up additional stints with the Indianapolis Colts (2023), Dolphins (2023 to 2024), Atlanta Falcons (2025) and **** ans (2026). His lone regular-season appearance came in 2024, during his second stop for Miami.
Earlier this morning, the Panthers waived guard Joshua Gray and added offensive tackle Derrell Bailey—an undrafted rookie out of Georgia State University. The 6-foot-6, 320-pound Bailey was one of six players who worked out for the team on Thursday.
#team #bailey #offensive
4 days ago
As we gear up for the 2026 football season, Aggies Wire is breaking down nearly every player on the Texas A&M roster. Throughout the preseason, each profile will highlight a player’s background, recruiting rankings out of high school, and projected role under head coach Mike Elko.
Texas A&M continues to use the transfer portal to upgrade its roster, landing Colorado safety Tawfiq Byard, an experienced defender with track‑level speed and proven production.
A former high school sprinter, Byard brings range and physicality to the back end. He started eight of 12 games for the Buffaloes last season, leading the team with 85 tackles, adding 8 tackles for loss, 0.5 sacks, four pass breakups, and one interception.
His ability to close ****** e, finish in the open field, and hold up in coverage makes him a strong fit for an Aggie secondary looking for reliability and playmaking.
Hometown: Hyattsville, Maryland
#roster #school
Texas A&M continues to use the transfer portal to upgrade its roster, landing Colorado safety Tawfiq Byard, an experienced defender with track‑level speed and proven production.
A former high school sprinter, Byard brings range and physicality to the back end. He started eight of 12 games for the Buffaloes last season, leading the team with 85 tackles, adding 8 tackles for loss, 0.5 sacks, four pass breakups, and one interception.
His ability to close ****** e, finish in the open field, and hold up in coverage makes him a strong fit for an Aggie secondary looking for reliability and playmaking.
Hometown: Hyattsville, Maryland
#roster #school
4 days ago
LAS VEGAS — For a defense as talented and deep as New Mexico's, one key question remains with fall camp less than two weeks away: After since-departed defensive linemen Keyshawn James-Newby and Brett Karhu terrorized opposing offenses to the tune of 16.5 sacks last season — nearly half of UNM's league-leading 36 — what Lobos can help replace that staggering level of production?
Last week, Brian Booker made one thing clear: He wants to be a big part of the answer.
Speaking at Mountain West Media Days, UNM's fifth-year interior defensive lineman said he's hoping to make more plays than last season while still serving as one of the Lobos' most effective run defenders.
A preseason All-Mountain West honoree, the 6-foot-3, 330-pound Booker made 19 total tackles and 1.5 sacks in a starting role last season after transferring to UNM from Texas Southern. But if the Mansfield, Texas native was more than adequate playing the run, Booker entered the offseason feeling he left a "lot of meat on the table."
"I could have had so much (more)," he said last Wednesday at Palms Casino Resort. "… I gave it all I could give, but sometimes it didn't pay off, you know what I'm saying? It's just a more personal thing for me — I left a lot of plays on the table, a lot of sacks, a lot of (tackles for loss), that kind of thing."
#sacks #lobos #west #defensive
Last week, Brian Booker made one thing clear: He wants to be a big part of the answer.
Speaking at Mountain West Media Days, UNM's fifth-year interior defensive lineman said he's hoping to make more plays than last season while still serving as one of the Lobos' most effective run defenders.
A preseason All-Mountain West honoree, the 6-foot-3, 330-pound Booker made 19 total tackles and 1.5 sacks in a starting role last season after transferring to UNM from Texas Southern. But if the Mansfield, Texas native was more than adequate playing the run, Booker entered the offseason feeling he left a "lot of meat on the table."
"I could have had so much (more)," he said last Wednesday at Palms Casino Resort. "… I gave it all I could give, but sometimes it didn't pay off, you know what I'm saying? It's just a more personal thing for me — I left a lot of plays on the table, a lot of sacks, a lot of (tackles for loss), that kind of thing."
#sacks #lobos #west #defensive
5 days ago
TAMPA, Fla. — If the rest of the world could be as normal about Arch Manning as he is, there never would have been Heisman Trophy expectations at the beginning last season or a bandwagon exodus of insane proportions when he looked like a typical first-year starting quarterback for nearly half the season.
Manning didn't ask to be anointed as the biggest star in college football before proving anything on the field, but it defined everything about the reaction to Texas' 2025 season. From the crush of publicity in August, to the doom-and-gloom that followed early losses, to the idea that Texas was wronged by the College Football Playoff committee after finishing with a flourish, every narrative turn felt emotionally overwrought.
Now, as Texas enters another season with a loaded roster and a Manning-led offense, one of two things will happen: Either we will learn that the expectations came one year too early or we are about to make the same mistake twice.
"I think last season he found out a lot about himself," Texas coach Steve Sarkisian said Thursday at SEC media days. "Any time we're faced with adversity and we get on the other side of it, you gain confidence. I think you see a different leader in him. The work ethic hasn't changed, but I think the ability to lead vocally is much different than before and I think he's very comfortable with who he is."
With Manning returning for his second go-round as a starter, arguably the most dangerous (and expensive) wide receiver room in college football and a defense that All-American edge rusher Colin Simmons called "stacked," Texas will enter the season right there with Georgia as favorites to win the SEC and among the small group of teams that could contend for the national ******* le.
#season #manning #Football
Manning didn't ask to be anointed as the biggest star in college football before proving anything on the field, but it defined everything about the reaction to Texas' 2025 season. From the crush of publicity in August, to the doom-and-gloom that followed early losses, to the idea that Texas was wronged by the College Football Playoff committee after finishing with a flourish, every narrative turn felt emotionally overwrought.
Now, as Texas enters another season with a loaded roster and a Manning-led offense, one of two things will happen: Either we will learn that the expectations came one year too early or we are about to make the same mistake twice.
"I think last season he found out a lot about himself," Texas coach Steve Sarkisian said Thursday at SEC media days. "Any time we're faced with adversity and we get on the other side of it, you gain confidence. I think you see a different leader in him. The work ethic hasn't changed, but I think the ability to lead vocally is much different than before and I think he's very comfortable with who he is."
With Manning returning for his second go-round as a starter, arguably the most dangerous (and expensive) wide receiver room in college football and a defense that All-American edge rusher Colin Simmons called "stacked," Texas will enter the season right there with Georgia as favorites to win the SEC and among the small group of teams that could contend for the national ******* le.
#season #manning #Football
5 days ago
One of the biggest things we've been talking about this offseason is Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels. After leading his team to the NFC Championship in 2024 and earning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors, the 2025 season fell flat. Injuries derailed the entire team, including Daniels, who now has a lot to prove.
It's one of the major storylines around the Commanders as a whole: The way Daniels performs in 2026 will dictate the direction of the organization. NFL.com's Grant Gordon recently discussed this as one of the team's top storylines.
There's a lot to accomplish for Jayden Daniels this summer following a disastrous 2025 season. The Commanders sputtered, and the 2024 AP Offensive Rookie of the Year missed 10 games due to injuries, going just 2-5 in the games he played. How Daniels looks and feels after sustaining a sprained knee, strained hamstring and dislocated left elbow is tops on the agenda. He also needs to get acclimated to David Blough's offense, which will see Daniels taking snaps under center far more now that his former ***** istant QB coach is his offensive coordinator after two seasons with Kliff Kingsbury in that role. Daniels is also in the latest season of Netflix's Quarterback series. All eyes and a heap of responsibility will be on Daniels. How he bounces back -- and how well he adapts to a new offense -- could be the story of the Commanders' season.
Last season was the polar opposite of Daniels' 2024 season. His injuries hampered the team's efforts, and it certainly didn't help that there were a slew of injuries along the rest of the roster, too.
With a new offensive coordinator and a new offensive scheme, Daniels should have a better shot at staying healthy this season. Blough likes the passing game and will do everything in his power to keep Daniels in the pocket. Sure, there will be some scrambles and designed runs, but for the most part, the idea is to keep Daniels behind the line of scrimmage.
#year #team
It's one of the major storylines around the Commanders as a whole: The way Daniels performs in 2026 will dictate the direction of the organization. NFL.com's Grant Gordon recently discussed this as one of the team's top storylines.
There's a lot to accomplish for Jayden Daniels this summer following a disastrous 2025 season. The Commanders sputtered, and the 2024 AP Offensive Rookie of the Year missed 10 games due to injuries, going just 2-5 in the games he played. How Daniels looks and feels after sustaining a sprained knee, strained hamstring and dislocated left elbow is tops on the agenda. He also needs to get acclimated to David Blough's offense, which will see Daniels taking snaps under center far more now that his former ***** istant QB coach is his offensive coordinator after two seasons with Kliff Kingsbury in that role. Daniels is also in the latest season of Netflix's Quarterback series. All eyes and a heap of responsibility will be on Daniels. How he bounces back -- and how well he adapts to a new offense -- could be the story of the Commanders' season.
Last season was the polar opposite of Daniels' 2024 season. His injuries hampered the team's efforts, and it certainly didn't help that there were a slew of injuries along the rest of the roster, too.
With a new offensive coordinator and a new offensive scheme, Daniels should have a better shot at staying healthy this season. Blough likes the passing game and will do everything in his power to keep Daniels in the pocket. Sure, there will be some scrambles and designed runs, but for the most part, the idea is to keep Daniels behind the line of scrimmage.
#year #team
5 days ago
Former Anniston standout Roq Montgomery has found a fresh start.
After failing to see the field during his third year at Alabama, the 6-foot-3, 330-pound offensive lineman entered the transfer portal this offseason and landed at Western Kentucky, where he'll suit up for head coach Tyson Helton this fall.
Helton offered his first impressions of Montgomery on Tuesday during Conference USA Media Day in Arlington, Texas.
"He's a big man. He's a strong man," Helton said. "I say big men lead the way, and he's the definition of that."
Helton noted he was familiar with Montgomery dating back to his high school days at Anniston. As a senior, Montgomery was named the Alabama Sports Writers ****** ociation's 2022 Class 4A Lineman of the Year after leading the Bulldogs to an 11-1 record.
#helton #year
After failing to see the field during his third year at Alabama, the 6-foot-3, 330-pound offensive lineman entered the transfer portal this offseason and landed at Western Kentucky, where he'll suit up for head coach Tyson Helton this fall.
Helton offered his first impressions of Montgomery on Tuesday during Conference USA Media Day in Arlington, Texas.
"He's a big man. He's a strong man," Helton said. "I say big men lead the way, and he's the definition of that."
Helton noted he was familiar with Montgomery dating back to his high school days at Anniston. As a senior, Montgomery was named the Alabama Sports Writers ****** ociation's 2022 Class 4A Lineman of the Year after leading the Bulldogs to an 11-1 record.
#helton #year
6 days ago
HOLT – Tre Holloman arrived wearing a Michigan State sweatshirt with the same Spartan head logo he famously protected and kissed. The moment that brought him heaps of adoration.
From the same fanbase that, two months later, turned on him in 2025 when the team captain shockingly announced he would be entering the transfer portal after three seasons at MSU.
Admittedly, things did not go as planned when the combo guard left Tom Izzo's program and landed at North Carolina State with coach Will Wade. But on Tuesday, July 21, Holloman returned to mid-Michigan after a stint with the Orlando Magic in the NBA Summer League to get some run with and against his former teammates at the Moneyball Pro-Am.
And to profess his appreciation for Izzo, the Spartans and the community he now lives in as a new father.
"This is home for me," Holloman said before taking the court at Holt High. "I was here for three years. My daughter's from Lansing, and I live in Lansing. So this is home."
#state #admittedly
From the same fanbase that, two months later, turned on him in 2025 when the team captain shockingly announced he would be entering the transfer portal after three seasons at MSU.
Admittedly, things did not go as planned when the combo guard left Tom Izzo's program and landed at North Carolina State with coach Will Wade. But on Tuesday, July 21, Holloman returned to mid-Michigan after a stint with the Orlando Magic in the NBA Summer League to get some run with and against his former teammates at the Moneyball Pro-Am.
And to profess his appreciation for Izzo, the Spartans and the community he now lives in as a new father.
"This is home for me," Holloman said before taking the court at Holt High. "I was here for three years. My daughter's from Lansing, and I live in Lansing. So this is home."
#state #admittedly
6 days ago
Three years, seven months and 21 days.
That is how long it took for Manchester City to win their first Premier League ****** le following the club's takeover by the Abu Dhabi United Group in 2008.
Memories of such a relatively swift transformation were still fresh in the minds of top-flight executives after Newcastle United's Saudi-led buyout in 2021.
"There was quite a lot of fear in the other clubs because they thought it was going to be another Manchester City," a source said.
The reality proved a little different.
#memories
That is how long it took for Manchester City to win their first Premier League ****** le following the club's takeover by the Abu Dhabi United Group in 2008.
Memories of such a relatively swift transformation were still fresh in the minds of top-flight executives after Newcastle United's Saudi-led buyout in 2021.
"There was quite a lot of fear in the other clubs because they thought it was going to be another Manchester City," a source said.
The reality proved a little different.
#memories
7 days ago
NBA Communications: The 2026 NBA All-Summer League First Team: Cameron Boozer, memgrizz, Brayden Burries, Bucks, Yaxel Lendeborg, warriors, Meleek Thomas, cavs, Caleb Wilson, chicagobulls. The team was selected by a vote of all 30 NBA teams based on performance at Summer League in Las Vegas.
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Top-4 picks Cameron Boozer, Caleb Wilson earn 2026 All-Summer League Team honors in Las Vegas
#team #communications
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Top-4 picks Cameron Boozer, Caleb Wilson earn 2026 All-Summer League Team honors in Las Vegas
#team #communications
13 days ago
So, in a state with a history of Spanish conquest, history could be repeating itself for Spain. As in Euro 2024, they beat France in a semi-final. As in 2010, they could follow victory in the European Championships by doing the double, by adding a World Cup. Deep in the heart of Texas, Luis de la Fuente's side took a sizeable step towards greatness.
Didier Deschamps had ****** ounced them as the favourites to win the World Cup. It turns out that was not just kidology. As the France manager's epic reign came in effect to an end, it was without a second World Cup or a third consecutive final. Kylian Mbappe may yet go on to become the greatest World Cup goalscorer and player; but not yet, not in Dallas, not now.
Instead, he was outscored on the day by Mikel Oyarzabal, the unheralded striker whose goal decided Euro 2024 and who set Spain towards a still greater triumph. The Real Sociedad captain had an unlikely ally. Pedro Porro, fresh from a Premier League relegation battle with Tottenham, scored a goal to take his side into a World Cup final. But Spain need no reminding that defenders can chip in: their previous World Cup semi-final victory, 16 years ago, came courtesy of Carles Puyol. Watching on, he must have remembered; so, surely, did Sergio Ramos and Xavi, alongside him.
De la Fuente's team are less defined by tiki-taka but they nevertheless prospered by exerting control. They are borrowing from the 2010 formula, global domination secured by reigning European champions who were immune to conceding.
An almost impenetrable defence has been breached only by Belgium's Charles de Ketelaere. France, with their previously fabulous front four, were supposed to provide the stiffest test. But they were not the unstoppable force: not when pitted against the immovable object of the Spanish rearguard. After 35 minutes, France had an xG of 0.01. By the interval, it had crept up to 0.04. The numbers showed how negligible their threat was.
Didier Deschamps had ****** ounced them as the favourites to win the World Cup. It turns out that was not just kidology. As the France manager's epic reign came in effect to an end, it was without a second World Cup or a third consecutive final. Kylian Mbappe may yet go on to become the greatest World Cup goalscorer and player; but not yet, not in Dallas, not now.
Instead, he was outscored on the day by Mikel Oyarzabal, the unheralded striker whose goal decided Euro 2024 and who set Spain towards a still greater triumph. The Real Sociedad captain had an unlikely ally. Pedro Porro, fresh from a Premier League relegation battle with Tottenham, scored a goal to take his side into a World Cup final. But Spain need no reminding that defenders can chip in: their previous World Cup semi-final victory, 16 years ago, came courtesy of Carles Puyol. Watching on, he must have remembered; so, surely, did Sergio Ramos and Xavi, alongside him.
De la Fuente's team are less defined by tiki-taka but they nevertheless prospered by exerting control. They are borrowing from the 2010 formula, global domination secured by reigning European champions who were immune to conceding.
An almost impenetrable defence has been breached only by Belgium's Charles de Ketelaere. France, with their previously fabulous front four, were supposed to provide the stiffest test. But they were not the unstoppable force: not when pitted against the immovable object of the Spanish rearguard. After 35 minutes, France had an xG of 0.01. By the interval, it had crept up to 0.04. The numbers showed how negligible their threat was.
14 days ago
Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli is still leading the championship race, but things have gotten tight after two straight races with car troubles and the surge of George Russell.
George Russell has capitalized by cutting down his deficit, gaining a total of 41 points over the last two races.
He is now within 25 points of Antonelli, who will certainly have pressure to deliver a clean weekend at the Belgian Grand Prix.
Reliability and car issues have become a big talking point about the Mercedes engine, given Antonelli’s two pointless races, though Russell has also grown in confidence with the car.
F1 experts Jolyon Palmer and James Hinchcliffe debated if it is the car underneath Antonelli or Russell that is the bigger threat to the Italian’s ****** le contention.
George Russell has capitalized by cutting down his deficit, gaining a total of 41 points over the last two races.
He is now within 25 points of Antonelli, who will certainly have pressure to deliver a clean weekend at the Belgian Grand Prix.
Reliability and car issues have become a big talking point about the Mercedes engine, given Antonelli’s two pointless races, though Russell has also grown in confidence with the car.
F1 experts Jolyon Palmer and James Hinchcliffe debated if it is the car underneath Antonelli or Russell that is the bigger threat to the Italian’s ****** le contention.
15 days ago
Illinois MBB coach Brad Underwood refuses to dwell on Final Four past, turns page to 2026 originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
In the modern landscape of college basketball, roster turnover is the new normal.
For Illinois coach Brad Underwood, however, the challenge of integrating new faces goes far beyond just learning names and **** ignments. As the Fighting Illini navigate the dog days of summer, Underwood is making it clear that his group is focused on forging its own path rather than looking in the rearview mirror at previous achievements.
For a program that has seen significant highs in recent years, there is often a temptation to rest on the memories of past teams. Underwood is actively guarding against that. As the team works through its summer development program, the message remains centered on the unique identity of the 2026-27 roster.
"This team will have its own identity," Underwood told reporters. "They'll have their own mannerisms. They'll have their own characteristics. They'll have their own style."
In the modern landscape of college basketball, roster turnover is the new normal.
For Illinois coach Brad Underwood, however, the challenge of integrating new faces goes far beyond just learning names and **** ignments. As the Fighting Illini navigate the dog days of summer, Underwood is making it clear that his group is focused on forging its own path rather than looking in the rearview mirror at previous achievements.
For a program that has seen significant highs in recent years, there is often a temptation to rest on the memories of past teams. Underwood is actively guarding against that. As the team works through its summer development program, the message remains centered on the unique identity of the 2026-27 roster.
"This team will have its own identity," Underwood told reporters. "They'll have their own mannerisms. They'll have their own characteristics. They'll have their own style."
15 days ago
With Argentina, England, France and Spain just two games from glory, we compare how the four semi-finalists have performed so far to get an idea of who could lift the World Cup this weekend.
While all the teams have played six games, Argentina have played an hour of football more than France and Spain thanks to games going to extra-time (and England half an hour more), so we've taken playing time into account to get the true picture of the statistics.
Although reigning champions Argentina have scored the most goals (17), two-time World Cup winners France have been the best side going forward overall as they've averaged the most goals, joint-most shots and highest Expected Goals per 90 minutes.
The South American side have been the most clinical, converting 18% of their chances, while the opposite is true of European champions Spain. Despite taking as many shots as their semi-final opponents France (110), they have scored just 11 goals to their 16 – almost a goal per game fewer.
When taking both the number and quality of shots into account, England have been less creative than the other three sides but have still scored over two goals per game thanks to clinical finishing from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane.
While all the teams have played six games, Argentina have played an hour of football more than France and Spain thanks to games going to extra-time (and England half an hour more), so we've taken playing time into account to get the true picture of the statistics.
Although reigning champions Argentina have scored the most goals (17), two-time World Cup winners France have been the best side going forward overall as they've averaged the most goals, joint-most shots and highest Expected Goals per 90 minutes.
The South American side have been the most clinical, converting 18% of their chances, while the opposite is true of European champions Spain. Despite taking as many shots as their semi-final opponents France (110), they have scored just 11 goals to their 16 – almost a goal per game fewer.
When taking both the number and quality of shots into account, England have been less creative than the other three sides but have still scored over two goals per game thanks to clinical finishing from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane.
16 days ago
Earlier today, it came to light that it was a call from Jose Mourinho that changed the course of Real Madrid's negotiations with Vinicius Jr. over a contract renewal.
The Brazilian star, after all, has been at a standstill with the club in terms of negotiations with both parties refusing to compromise on economic terms.
In recent days, however, there has been a growing sense of optimism that the player will stay at the club, although Los Blancos have been very clear that they will not throw the kitchen sink to ensure he stays.
As reported by Miguel Serrano in his detailed update, Mourinho told Vinicius Jr. in their conversation that it is time for the player to turn the page on the FIFA World Cup chapter.
Mourinho told Vinicius not to feel responsible for Brazil's elimination. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
The Brazilian star, after all, has been at a standstill with the club in terms of negotiations with both parties refusing to compromise on economic terms.
In recent days, however, there has been a growing sense of optimism that the player will stay at the club, although Los Blancos have been very clear that they will not throw the kitchen sink to ensure he stays.
As reported by Miguel Serrano in his detailed update, Mourinho told Vinicius Jr. in their conversation that it is time for the player to turn the page on the FIFA World Cup chapter.
Mourinho told Vinicius not to feel responsible for Brazil's elimination. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
16 days ago
UFC fighter Max Holloway trolled Conor McGregor after the latter's abrupt injury and exit in Saturday night's marquee fight in Las Vegas.
After McGregor threatened to end Holloway in less than 10 seconds ahead of his big return to UFC competition, his knee eventually gave way after one move and handed Holloway the fight before it even started.
For McGregor, it was the Aaron Rodgers-New York Jets thing in real time.
Obviously, since this is UFC and ****** ody is going to be humble after something like this happens, Holloway took his post-fight interview to roast McGregor and say he "had him weak in the knees" by fight's end. Yowza.
NSFW language to follow.
After McGregor threatened to end Holloway in less than 10 seconds ahead of his big return to UFC competition, his knee eventually gave way after one move and handed Holloway the fight before it even started.
For McGregor, it was the Aaron Rodgers-New York Jets thing in real time.
Obviously, since this is UFC and ****** ody is going to be humble after something like this happens, Holloway took his post-fight interview to roast McGregor and say he "had him weak in the knees" by fight's end. Yowza.
NSFW language to follow.
16 days ago
Drew Hill: Ja Morant is welcoming a fresh start. He said he wants to show Portland a "different Ja." But that reality is still sinking in. "I'm definitely grateful for my time in Memphis," he said. "That will always be home for me."
x.com
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "I'm definitely grateful for my time in Memphis," he …
x.com
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "I'm definitely grateful for my time in Memphis," he …
17 days ago
Famalicão head coach Hugo Oliveira will join Strasbourg and succeed Gary O'Neil in the dugout, according to L'Equipe. The Portuguese is expected to land in France on Sunday to sign his contract, before leading his first training session the following Monday. Strasbourg were in the market for a manager following O'Neil's defection to promoted Premier League side Ipswich Town FC.
L'Equipe understands that Strasbourg will pay a €2m compensation fee to Famalicão, who finished fifth last season with Oliveira in the dugout. The 47-year-old was Marco Silva's **** istant at Hull City FC, Watford, Everton and Fulham FC. Oliveira was competing with former Celtic FC head coach Wilfried Nancy for the Strasbourg job. Strasbourg will play Marseille away for the opening Ligue 1 game.
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
L'Equipe understands that Strasbourg will pay a €2m compensation fee to Famalicão, who finished fifth last season with Oliveira in the dugout. The 47-year-old was Marco Silva's **** istant at Hull City FC, Watford, Everton and Fulham FC. Oliveira was competing with former Celtic FC head coach Wilfried Nancy for the Strasbourg job. Strasbourg will play Marseille away for the opening Ligue 1 game.
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
17 days ago
The 144-man field at the PGA Tour's opposite-field ISCO Championship is down to 67 golfers after Friday's cut. Lucas Glover leads by two, the straight week he took a two-lead into the weekend.
Should he hold on to win Sunday, he'll pocket $720,000 (out of a $4 million total prize fund) while collecting his seventh PGA Tour win and first since the 2023 FedEx St. Jude Championship.
But with the cut coming in at 3 under, there's a decent number of notable golfers who are not advancing.
Unfortunately Shipley's Friday 66 wasn't enough to recover from his Thursday 72.
Sargent's rookie season has had some tough sledding. He finished 78th last week but otherwise this will be his third missed cut in four outings.
Should he hold on to win Sunday, he'll pocket $720,000 (out of a $4 million total prize fund) while collecting his seventh PGA Tour win and first since the 2023 FedEx St. Jude Championship.
But with the cut coming in at 3 under, there's a decent number of notable golfers who are not advancing.
Unfortunately Shipley's Friday 66 wasn't enough to recover from his Thursday 72.
Sargent's rookie season has had some tough sledding. He finished 78th last week but otherwise this will be his third missed cut in four outings.
18 days ago
Spain-Belgium Prediction Market Apps: Get Top Offers from Kalshi, Polymarket, More originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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19 days ago
Steve Cherundolo has been named the head coach of the U.S. under-23 men's soccer team that will compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Cherundolo, 47, coached Los Angeles FC in Major League Soccer from 2022-25, winning the MLS Cup in 2022.
He played as a defender in the 2006 and 2010 World Cups and was named to the 2002 World Cup team but did not play due to injury.
The U.S. men lost in the 2024 Olympic quarterfinals to Morocco (4-0) in their first time qualifying for the Games since 2008.
The U.S. coach at the Paris Games was Marko Mitrovic, who after the Games became the U20 head coach.
Cherundolo, 47, coached Los Angeles FC in Major League Soccer from 2022-25, winning the MLS Cup in 2022.
He played as a defender in the 2006 and 2010 World Cups and was named to the 2002 World Cup team but did not play due to injury.
The U.S. men lost in the 2024 Olympic quarterfinals to Morocco (4-0) in their first time qualifying for the Games since 2008.
The U.S. coach at the Paris Games was Marko Mitrovic, who after the Games became the U20 head coach.
19 days ago
Coco Gauff bids to reach her first Wimbledon final as she faces Karolina Muchova in Thursday's semi-finals, with the Championships set to crown another first-time winner.
Two-time major champion Gauff first shot to prominence at Wimbledon in 2019, when she reached the fourth round on her tournament debut and at just 15 years old.
The American has required a further six attempts to advance past the last-16 for the first time, defeating fourth seed Jessica Pegula in three sets in the quarter-finals on Tuesday.
The 22-year-old Gauff has won four deciding sets in a row but Muchova, the 10th seed, is a tough test in the semi-finals. The Czech all-round ended Naomi Osaka's run in straight-sets.
Muchova, who is known for her inventive and creative shot-making, will be attempting to reach her first Wimbledon final and second grand slam final after the 2023 French Open.
Two-time major champion Gauff first shot to prominence at Wimbledon in 2019, when she reached the fourth round on her tournament debut and at just 15 years old.
The American has required a further six attempts to advance past the last-16 for the first time, defeating fourth seed Jessica Pegula in three sets in the quarter-finals on Tuesday.
The 22-year-old Gauff has won four deciding sets in a row but Muchova, the 10th seed, is a tough test in the semi-finals. The Czech all-round ended Naomi Osaka's run in straight-sets.
Muchova, who is known for her inventive and creative shot-making, will be attempting to reach her first Wimbledon final and second grand slam final after the 2023 French Open.
20 days ago
Brazil’s World Cup campaign began with a bit of scepticism about how they might perform after a bizarre qualifying campaign and mixed results heading into the tournament. Things like a 3-2 loss to **** an, a 1-1 draw with Tunisia, followed by a defeat to France, meant Brazil came into the tournament with plenty of uncertainty surrounding how they would perform, and the fans were hopeful, although there was far less expectation than in recent years.
Their preparations for the tournament kicked off with a 6-2 victory over Panama, which lifted the mood a bit, but their defensive fragilities were still evident in that match. A 2-1 victory over Egypt followed before they began their World Cup campaign with a game against Morocco, where they drew 1-1. Morocco were probably the better side, and Brazil’s doubts before the tournament appeared to be justified.
Then things began to improve for Brazil as they battered Haiti 3-0 with goals from Matheus Cunha and Vinícius Júnior. A solid defensive display and a ruthless attack gave Brazil hope, especially against Scotland, where they once again weren’t at their brilliant best, but were able to rely on moments of quality to capitalise on mistakes. A brace from Vinícius Júnior and another goal from Cunha saw them enjoy another 3-0 victory and another clean sheet.
However, it wasn’t the most pleasing of performances for Brazil. Despite that, they still produced a very dominant attacking display, registering an xG of 4.34 compared to Scotland’s 1.05. It was the type of performance **** ociated with Carlo Ancelotti, where they could win the game by flicking a switch to turn it on when needed and punish any mistakes made by their opponents, which seemed to be perfect heading into the knockout stages.
There, they first took on **** an, and it looked very nervy for the Brazilians when Kashui Sono opened the scoring. Brazil responded by bombarding Zion Suzuki’s goal, but couldn’t find a way through until the 56th minute. Casemiro levelled things before Gabriel Martinelli scored in stoppage time to give Brazil a place in the quarter-finals.
Their preparations for the tournament kicked off with a 6-2 victory over Panama, which lifted the mood a bit, but their defensive fragilities were still evident in that match. A 2-1 victory over Egypt followed before they began their World Cup campaign with a game against Morocco, where they drew 1-1. Morocco were probably the better side, and Brazil’s doubts before the tournament appeared to be justified.
Then things began to improve for Brazil as they battered Haiti 3-0 with goals from Matheus Cunha and Vinícius Júnior. A solid defensive display and a ruthless attack gave Brazil hope, especially against Scotland, where they once again weren’t at their brilliant best, but were able to rely on moments of quality to capitalise on mistakes. A brace from Vinícius Júnior and another goal from Cunha saw them enjoy another 3-0 victory and another clean sheet.
However, it wasn’t the most pleasing of performances for Brazil. Despite that, they still produced a very dominant attacking display, registering an xG of 4.34 compared to Scotland’s 1.05. It was the type of performance **** ociated with Carlo Ancelotti, where they could win the game by flicking a switch to turn it on when needed and punish any mistakes made by their opponents, which seemed to be perfect heading into the knockout stages.
There, they first took on **** an, and it looked very nervy for the Brazilians when Kashui Sono opened the scoring. Brazil responded by bombarding Zion Suzuki’s goal, but couldn’t find a way through until the 56th minute. Casemiro levelled things before Gabriel Martinelli scored in stoppage time to give Brazil a place in the quarter-finals.
20 days ago
As Morocco prepares to take on France in a World Cup quarterfinal at Boston Stadium (Gillette Stadium) on Thursday, July 9, in a rematch of a 2022 semi-final, what should be a competitive and hard-fought fixture between two of the world's top teams carries an unfortunate distinction.
For the second time in seven World Cup matches in Foxboro, a player will go up against a national team from a country where he is currently facing rape charges.
Atlas Lions captain and defender Achraf Hakimi, who plays for Ligue 1 giants and back-to-back Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain, is set to stand trial in France on a charge of rape stemming from an alleged **** ault in 2023. For his case, the 27-year-old strongly denies the allegations and says he looks forward to his day in court.
Ahead of kickoff, in what will be Hakimi and Morocco's second match at Boston Stadium this summer, here's what you need to know about the Moroccan captain and his legal case.
Hakimi is a 27-year-old right back who plays for PSG and captains the Morocco Men's National Team. Born in Madrid and raised in its suburb Getafe to Moroccan parents, Hakimi's talents became apparent at a young age. At 8, he signed as a youth player for Club Deportivo Colonia Ofigevi, then moved over to the famed Real Madrid academy a year later. Initially a winger, he was moved to being a more offensive-minded right wing back during his time in Los Blancos' youth setup.
For the second time in seven World Cup matches in Foxboro, a player will go up against a national team from a country where he is currently facing rape charges.
Atlas Lions captain and defender Achraf Hakimi, who plays for Ligue 1 giants and back-to-back Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain, is set to stand trial in France on a charge of rape stemming from an alleged **** ault in 2023. For his case, the 27-year-old strongly denies the allegations and says he looks forward to his day in court.
Ahead of kickoff, in what will be Hakimi and Morocco's second match at Boston Stadium this summer, here's what you need to know about the Moroccan captain and his legal case.
Hakimi is a 27-year-old right back who plays for PSG and captains the Morocco Men's National Team. Born in Madrid and raised in its suburb Getafe to Moroccan parents, Hakimi's talents became apparent at a young age. At 8, he signed as a youth player for Club Deportivo Colonia Ofigevi, then moved over to the famed Real Madrid academy a year later. Initially a winger, he was moved to being a more offensive-minded right wing back during his time in Los Blancos' youth setup.
20 days ago
SEATTLE - The loneliest position on any soccer field is in goal, and never more so than after a heartbreaking loss. In the moments after the U.S. men’s national team’s World Cup dreams were dashed Monday night, Matt Freese wandered alone at one end of the field, surrounded by grass, noise and disappointment.
“This hurts,” he said later. “This moment stings more than probably any other moment in my life.”
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Freese had entered this tournament as perhaps the biggest question in the American starting lineup. He exited it as the biggest post-tournament question, too.
For most of this World Cup, the 27-year-old goalkeeper had done enough to quiet the doubts. But against Belgium, he gave them new life. In the Americans’ 4-1 loss in Monday’s round of 16 matchup, Freese conceded four goals and committed the blunder that will be hard for U.S. fans - and maybe Freese, too - to forget.
“This hurts,” he said later. “This moment stings more than probably any other moment in my life.”
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Freese had entered this tournament as perhaps the biggest question in the American starting lineup. He exited it as the biggest post-tournament question, too.
For most of this World Cup, the 27-year-old goalkeeper had done enough to quiet the doubts. But against Belgium, he gave them new life. In the Americans’ 4-1 loss in Monday’s round of 16 matchup, Freese conceded four goals and committed the blunder that will be hard for U.S. fans - and maybe Freese, too - to forget.
21 days ago
Los Angeles Angels interim general manager John Mozeliak hasn’t shied away since taking the helm a couple of weeks ago, and insists he will do everything in his power to move this franchise in the right direction.
The Angels approach the All-Star break in a less-than-favorable position, currently sporting the worst record in MLB while some of their best players get looks from contending teams across the league. As the Aug. 3 deadline closes in, Mozeliak told the LA Times’ Bill Shaikin no player was untouchable.
So what about Mike Trout?
“That’s not happening,” Mozeliak said.
Trout has become the cornerstone of the Angels’ franchise throughout his 16-year MLB career. Trade rumors are ever-present around him—especially in a good year such as this one—yet the Angels remain uninterested.
The Angels approach the All-Star break in a less-than-favorable position, currently sporting the worst record in MLB while some of their best players get looks from contending teams across the league. As the Aug. 3 deadline closes in, Mozeliak told the LA Times’ Bill Shaikin no player was untouchable.
So what about Mike Trout?
“That’s not happening,” Mozeliak said.
Trout has become the cornerstone of the Angels’ franchise throughout his 16-year MLB career. Trade rumors are ever-present around him—especially in a good year such as this one—yet the Angels remain uninterested.
22 days ago
MUMBAI: Anvay Dravid, the younger son of former India captain and coach Rahul Dravid, top-scored with a whirlwind 87 (67b, 9x4, 1x6), while Arjun Rajput made 76 (81b, 9x4, 1x6) to help the India Under-19 team put up a formidable total of 285 in 47.2 overs against Sri Lanka A in the second Youth ODI in Hambantota on Monday.
After electing to bat first, the India Under-19 team had slipped to 81 for four in the 19th over, before Anvay, a 17-year-old talented 'keeper-batter, rescued the visitors with a mammoth 145-run partnership in just 126 **** for the fifth wicket with Rajput. India Under 19s lost both their openers- skipper Yashbardhan Chauhan (6) and Sagar Virk (4) - with the score reading 11 in the fourth over, following which Kushagra Ojha (38, 45b, 6x4) and VK Vineeth (24 off 45 **** ) added 67 for the third wicket to put the innings back on track.
Batting at No 5, Anvay, walking in with India U-19s at 78 for three in the 17th over, gave India Under-19's some much needed impetus, batting at a strike rate of 129.85, and reaching his half-century off 47 **** .
For the Sri Lanka Under-19s, left-arm seamer Gimhan Mendis took five for 41 in 8.2 overs.
Anvay was out for a 19-ball 14 in the first Youth ODI at the same venue, as the India Under-19s chased down 321 against the hosts to register a four-wicket win.
Incidentally, on Sunday, Anvay's elder brother Samit Dravid did well with bat and ball in a Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 match on Sunday. Samit took two for 23 & scored 40 not out off 28 **** to fashion Bengaluru Blasters' eight-wicket win over Mysore Warriors.
Anvay recently led Karnataka's Under-19 side to the quarter-finals of the Vinoo Mankad Trophy. He scored 220 runs in the tournament - the second-most for his side - averaging 55.00 across six innings. The India Under-19s tour of Sri Lanka includes three one-day matches and two four-day games.
Brief Scores:
India Under-19 285 in 47.2 overs (Anvay Dravid 87, Arjun Rajput 76, Kushagra Ojha 38; Gimhan Mendis 5-41) vs Sri Lanka A.
After electing to bat first, the India Under-19 team had slipped to 81 for four in the 19th over, before Anvay, a 17-year-old talented 'keeper-batter, rescued the visitors with a mammoth 145-run partnership in just 126 **** for the fifth wicket with Rajput. India Under 19s lost both their openers- skipper Yashbardhan Chauhan (6) and Sagar Virk (4) - with the score reading 11 in the fourth over, following which Kushagra Ojha (38, 45b, 6x4) and VK Vineeth (24 off 45 **** ) added 67 for the third wicket to put the innings back on track.
Batting at No 5, Anvay, walking in with India U-19s at 78 for three in the 17th over, gave India Under-19's some much needed impetus, batting at a strike rate of 129.85, and reaching his half-century off 47 **** .
For the Sri Lanka Under-19s, left-arm seamer Gimhan Mendis took five for 41 in 8.2 overs.
Anvay was out for a 19-ball 14 in the first Youth ODI at the same venue, as the India Under-19s chased down 321 against the hosts to register a four-wicket win.
Incidentally, on Sunday, Anvay's elder brother Samit Dravid did well with bat and ball in a Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 match on Sunday. Samit took two for 23 & scored 40 not out off 28 **** to fashion Bengaluru Blasters' eight-wicket win over Mysore Warriors.
Anvay recently led Karnataka's Under-19 side to the quarter-finals of the Vinoo Mankad Trophy. He scored 220 runs in the tournament - the second-most for his side - averaging 55.00 across six innings. The India Under-19s tour of Sri Lanka includes three one-day matches and two four-day games.
Brief Scores:
India Under-19 285 in 47.2 overs (Anvay Dravid 87, Arjun Rajput 76, Kushagra Ojha 38; Gimhan Mendis 5-41) vs Sri Lanka A.
22 days ago
Mexico's World Cup dream has come to an end
England outlasted Mexico 3-2 in a chaotic World Cup round of 16 match on Sunday, July 5 at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
The Three Lions took a 2-1 lead into halftime after Jude Bellingham's first-half brace, which was followed by a Julián Quiñones goal just before the break.
England's task was made much tougher when defender Jarell Quansah was shown a straight red card early in the second half.
But Harry Kane would strike back with a penalty kick to make it 3-1 for 10-man England after Raúl Rangel fouled Anthony Gordon in the box.
England outlasted Mexico 3-2 in a chaotic World Cup round of 16 match on Sunday, July 5 at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
The Three Lions took a 2-1 lead into halftime after Jude Bellingham's first-half brace, which was followed by a Julián Quiñones goal just before the break.
England's task was made much tougher when defender Jarell Quansah was shown a straight red card early in the second half.
But Harry Kane would strike back with a penalty kick to make it 3-1 for 10-man England after Raúl Rangel fouled Anthony Gordon in the box.
22 days ago
United States men’s national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino had his first opportunity to respond to FIFA lifting Folarin Balogun’s one-game red card ban during a press conference on Sunday, and he’s ready to celebrate the decision, even if many others aren’t.
The controversial red card occurred during the United States’ round-of-32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Per FIFA World Cup rules, any player given a red card is automatically suspended for the next match. Initial reports suggested that FIFA did not have a mechanism to appeal the red card. To allow Balogun to play, FIFA suspended the red card.
“You know, I think we celebrate all the decision,” Pochettino said during Sunday’s press conference. “We were punished enough against Bosnia and Herzegovina to play with 10 men (for) 30 minutes, in a decision that was [completely] unfair. But it’s not only because I am the head coach of the U.S. men’s national team…. 99.9 percent [of people] agree that was an unfair red card.”
The decision has resulted in a range of reactions from across the soccer world. It has caused outrage in Belgium, with the Royal Belgian Football **** ociation (RBFA) saying they were “astonished by FIFA’s decision.” They further added they would investigate all possible options “in order to safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and to protect the fundamental principles of fair play in our sport.”
The controversial red card occurred during the United States’ round-of-32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Per FIFA World Cup rules, any player given a red card is automatically suspended for the next match. Initial reports suggested that FIFA did not have a mechanism to appeal the red card. To allow Balogun to play, FIFA suspended the red card.
“You know, I think we celebrate all the decision,” Pochettino said during Sunday’s press conference. “We were punished enough against Bosnia and Herzegovina to play with 10 men (for) 30 minutes, in a decision that was [completely] unfair. But it’s not only because I am the head coach of the U.S. men’s national team…. 99.9 percent [of people] agree that was an unfair red card.”
The decision has resulted in a range of reactions from across the soccer world. It has caused outrage in Belgium, with the Royal Belgian Football **** ociation (RBFA) saying they were “astonished by FIFA’s decision.” They further added they would investigate all possible options “in order to safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and to protect the fundamental principles of fair play in our sport.”