11 hours ago
There is only 23 days to go until Andoni Iraola starts his Premier League reign at Liverpool with an away fixture against Newcastle.
However, as pre-season ticks along, Reds fans will be curious about how he will adapt his Liverpool side without Mohamed Salah.
Speaking before Liverpool's 4-2 defeat to Leeds United in Chicago, Iraola said: "First our wingers, normally I'm used to trying to encourage them to have the ability to play both sides."
During Iroala's tenure at Bournemouth, he often interchanged wingers to play on both sides, something which proved difficult for opponent's defence.
"I know some of them are more comfortable on one side, but our team is not normally symmetrical. So sometimes one of the wingers have to do more defensive work, sometimes one has to play more higher," added Iraola.
#play #Liverpool #normally
However, as pre-season ticks along, Reds fans will be curious about how he will adapt his Liverpool side without Mohamed Salah.
Speaking before Liverpool's 4-2 defeat to Leeds United in Chicago, Iraola said: "First our wingers, normally I'm used to trying to encourage them to have the ability to play both sides."
During Iroala's tenure at Bournemouth, he often interchanged wingers to play on both sides, something which proved difficult for opponent's defence.
"I know some of them are more comfortable on one side, but our team is not normally symmetrical. So sometimes one of the wingers have to do more defensive work, sometimes one has to play more higher," added Iraola.
#play #Liverpool #normally
2 days ago
Shaquille O'Neal admits he understands why some Lakers fans dislike him and LeBron James originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Over the years, the Los Angeles Lakers have had plenty of superstars come through their doors and stand out. Shaquille O'Neal and LeBron James are among those players, and they helped them become champions. Shaq won three championships and Finals MVPs during his time, while LeBron led them to a ****** le with a Finals MVP as well.
Unfortunately, it seems they are not the biggest fan favorites despite their success with the Lakers. Shaq is not seen as one of the top Lakers legends, which is likely connected to his feud with Kobe Bryant. Now, it seems there is a mixed reaction to LeBron even after he just left the team.
Shaq has probably heard from all kinds of Lakers fans over the years, especially the past two decades. He left the team in some bad circumstances because it came from the peak of his feud with Bryant. O'Neal and Bryant got to reconcile at some point, but it left a bad taste in some Lakers fans' mouths.
When it comes to James, the Lakers fans did embrace him, especially when he led the team to a championship in only his second season with the team. Unfortunately, they could not win the championship again during his stint, which led to a vocal minority resenting him.
#lebron #bryant #team #left
Over the years, the Los Angeles Lakers have had plenty of superstars come through their doors and stand out. Shaquille O'Neal and LeBron James are among those players, and they helped them become champions. Shaq won three championships and Finals MVPs during his time, while LeBron led them to a ****** le with a Finals MVP as well.
Unfortunately, it seems they are not the biggest fan favorites despite their success with the Lakers. Shaq is not seen as one of the top Lakers legends, which is likely connected to his feud with Kobe Bryant. Now, it seems there is a mixed reaction to LeBron even after he just left the team.
Shaq has probably heard from all kinds of Lakers fans over the years, especially the past two decades. He left the team in some bad circumstances because it came from the peak of his feud with Bryant. O'Neal and Bryant got to reconcile at some point, but it left a bad taste in some Lakers fans' mouths.
When it comes to James, the Lakers fans did embrace him, especially when he led the team to a championship in only his second season with the team. Unfortunately, they could not win the championship again during his stint, which led to a vocal minority resenting him.
#lebron #bryant #team #left
3 days ago
A couple weeks after losing draft pick and development player Justine ******* ott to the Las Vegas Aces, the Indiana Fever filled their second development spot.
The Fever announced Friday that they have signed Ugonne "Michelle" Onyiah to their development roster, joining Bree Hall on the Fever's development squad.
Onyiah, a 6-3 forward, played at the University of California-Berkeley from 2020-25. She was a key rotational player for all five of her years at Cal, and shot a conference-leading 60.3% from the field as a full-time starter in her final season in 2024-25. She was not picked in the 2025 WNBA Draft, then spent a year overseas playing in Belgium with Basket Namur Capitale, averaging 11.1 points and 8.4 rebounds per game.
She got her first shot in the WNBA in New York this year, signing a rookie-scale contract with the Liberty ahead of 2026 training camp, but she was not able to make either of the Liberty's preseason games because of overseas commitments and was ultimately waived ahead of the regular season on May 7.
Onyiah then signed with the Upshot League, a new women's basketball league that started in 2026. She played on the Charlotte Crown, averaging 9.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game.
#fever #draft #league #signed
The Fever announced Friday that they have signed Ugonne "Michelle" Onyiah to their development roster, joining Bree Hall on the Fever's development squad.
Onyiah, a 6-3 forward, played at the University of California-Berkeley from 2020-25. She was a key rotational player for all five of her years at Cal, and shot a conference-leading 60.3% from the field as a full-time starter in her final season in 2024-25. She was not picked in the 2025 WNBA Draft, then spent a year overseas playing in Belgium with Basket Namur Capitale, averaging 11.1 points and 8.4 rebounds per game.
She got her first shot in the WNBA in New York this year, signing a rookie-scale contract with the Liberty ahead of 2026 training camp, but she was not able to make either of the Liberty's preseason games because of overseas commitments and was ultimately waived ahead of the regular season on May 7.
Onyiah then signed with the Upshot League, a new women's basketball league that started in 2026. She played on the Charlotte Crown, averaging 9.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game.
#fever #draft #league #signed
4 days ago
Manchester United are preparing an offer for Lewis Hall as the club look to capitalise on the uncertainty at Newcastle United.
Manchester United have a long-standing interest in Hall and are ready to test Newcastle's resolve with a bid.
It's a summer of transition at Newcastle, with Eddie Howe set to step down from his role as manager after five years, and Al-Ahli head coach Matthias Jaissle due to replace him. Newcastle have sold key figures in Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali, while Bruno Guimaraes is expected to leave for **** nal.
The Magpies have focused on youthful recruitment, and Manchester United are now seeking to exploit their rebuild with a bid for Hall. The Red Devils view the 21-year-old as a long-term replacement for Luke Shaw and are preparing a proposal for the £60m-rated defender, according to TEAMtalk.
Racing Santander teenager Jorge Salinas has emerged as one of the leading alternatives, if a deal for Hall cannot be done.
#eddie
Manchester United have a long-standing interest in Hall and are ready to test Newcastle's resolve with a bid.
It's a summer of transition at Newcastle, with Eddie Howe set to step down from his role as manager after five years, and Al-Ahli head coach Matthias Jaissle due to replace him. Newcastle have sold key figures in Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali, while Bruno Guimaraes is expected to leave for **** nal.
The Magpies have focused on youthful recruitment, and Manchester United are now seeking to exploit their rebuild with a bid for Hall. The Red Devils view the 21-year-old as a long-term replacement for Luke Shaw and are preparing a proposal for the £60m-rated defender, according to TEAMtalk.
Racing Santander teenager Jorge Salinas has emerged as one of the leading alternatives, if a deal for Hall cannot be done.
#eddie
4 days ago
Shohei Ohtani will not be in the starting lineup for the Los Angeles Dodgers' home game against the Seattle Mariners on Thursday, July 30.
Ohtani has been dealing with an ongoing knee issue that has kept him off the mound since before the All-Star Game.
Andrew Friedman, the Dodgers' president of baseball operations, told reporters on July 29 that Ohtani's knee is the reason he's not pitching right now.
Another injury came to light after Ohtani mentioned during his recent media availability that he's dealing with right biceps discomfort.
#ohtani #july
Ohtani has been dealing with an ongoing knee issue that has kept him off the mound since before the All-Star Game.
Andrew Friedman, the Dodgers' president of baseball operations, told reporters on July 29 that Ohtani's knee is the reason he's not pitching right now.
Another injury came to light after Ohtani mentioned during his recent media availability that he's dealing with right biceps discomfort.
#ohtani #july
5 days ago
Tottenham manager Roberto de Zerbi says he wants to convince England defender Djed Spence to stay at the club amid uncertainty over his future.
The 25-year-old, who signed a long-term deal with the club last year, has been linked with a move to Inter Milan and Everton.
De Zerbi says he sees Spence as an important part of his plans despite increased competition in his role after a summer of significant spending.
Spurs have spent a club record £237m so far this summer as they rebuild their squad after narrowly avoiding relegation on the final day of last season's Premier League.
"I repeat what I said to Djed, and to Lucas [Bergvall]," De Zerbi said, referencing comments he made about the in-demand Sweden midfielder a day earlier.
#year
The 25-year-old, who signed a long-term deal with the club last year, has been linked with a move to Inter Milan and Everton.
De Zerbi says he sees Spence as an important part of his plans despite increased competition in his role after a summer of significant spending.
Spurs have spent a club record £237m so far this summer as they rebuild their squad after narrowly avoiding relegation on the final day of last season's Premier League.
"I repeat what I said to Djed, and to Lucas [Bergvall]," De Zerbi said, referencing comments he made about the in-demand Sweden midfielder a day earlier.
#year
5 days ago
Tarik Skubal has won a pair of Cy Young Awards and dominated in the playoffs. Yet no start might be as anticipated as his outing Wednesday, July 29 at Comerica Park against the Baltimore Orioles.
It is possibly – perhaps likely – Skubal's final start as a Detroit Tiger, as the Aug. 3 MLB trade deadline draws closer and the Tigers remain mired in a thick American League playoff race.
And if Skubal keeps up his recent performance, he'll be all the more attractive to suitors - or tempting for the Tigers to hold onto him.
Skubal, who has 999 career strikeouts, has given up just one earned run in 14 ⅓ innings his past two starts, striking out 21 and walking two. Both games were Tigers wins and both answered any question he's still recovering from May elbow surgery.
The Tigers enter Wednesday's game five games out in the middling AL Central, and 3 ½ out of the AL wild card, though they need to pass five teams to get in playoff position. But they can catch the Orioles with a win in this rubber game, and Baltimore has its own pending free agent lefty, Trevor Rogers, who has dominated of late and could slide on the trade block if his club fades further.
#start #games
It is possibly – perhaps likely – Skubal's final start as a Detroit Tiger, as the Aug. 3 MLB trade deadline draws closer and the Tigers remain mired in a thick American League playoff race.
And if Skubal keeps up his recent performance, he'll be all the more attractive to suitors - or tempting for the Tigers to hold onto him.
Skubal, who has 999 career strikeouts, has given up just one earned run in 14 ⅓ innings his past two starts, striking out 21 and walking two. Both games were Tigers wins and both answered any question he's still recovering from May elbow surgery.
The Tigers enter Wednesday's game five games out in the middling AL Central, and 3 ½ out of the AL wild card, though they need to pass five teams to get in playoff position. But they can catch the Orioles with a win in this rubber game, and Baltimore has its own pending free agent lefty, Trevor Rogers, who has dominated of late and could slide on the trade block if his club fades further.
#start #games
6 days ago
Former Florida baseball pitcher Franco Aleman is just starting his professional career. He is proving himself to be a solid option as a rookie in the Guardians' bullpen so far in the 2026 campaign.
Aleman's rise through the minor leagues has showcased his potential as a reliever, with his ball velocity and strikeout ability making him a valuable **** et for Cleveland. As he continues adjusting to the highest level of baseball, the former Gator is proving why he remains one of Florida's more promising recent pitching products.
This season, Aleman has appeared in 11 games, posting a 1.54 ERA, 3.63 FIP, 1.11 WHIP, and 0.2 fWAR across 11.2 innings. He has recorded 11 strikeouts and five walks, good for a 23.9% strikeout rate and 10.9% walk rate.
Aleman has leaned heavily on his four-seam fastball (66% usage), which averages 96.5 mph, landing him in the 81st percentile among major league pitchers. He also mixes in a slider (25%) that averages 86.2 mph along with a changeup (9%) that clocks in at 88.4 mph — both providing a strong separation in velocities from the fastball — to keep hitters off balance.
The Cleveland Guardians are currently in the wild card hunt with a record of 54-53.
#fastball
Aleman's rise through the minor leagues has showcased his potential as a reliever, with his ball velocity and strikeout ability making him a valuable **** et for Cleveland. As he continues adjusting to the highest level of baseball, the former Gator is proving why he remains one of Florida's more promising recent pitching products.
This season, Aleman has appeared in 11 games, posting a 1.54 ERA, 3.63 FIP, 1.11 WHIP, and 0.2 fWAR across 11.2 innings. He has recorded 11 strikeouts and five walks, good for a 23.9% strikeout rate and 10.9% walk rate.
Aleman has leaned heavily on his four-seam fastball (66% usage), which averages 96.5 mph, landing him in the 81st percentile among major league pitchers. He also mixes in a slider (25%) that averages 86.2 mph along with a changeup (9%) that clocks in at 88.4 mph — both providing a strong separation in velocities from the fastball — to keep hitters off balance.
The Cleveland Guardians are currently in the wild card hunt with a record of 54-53.
#fastball
7 days ago
When it comes to measuring a college football fan's dedication, ranging from attending every home and most away games, spending substantial amounts of money on merchandise, or, in today's NIL-driven landscape, donating money to a program's collective to help fund recruiting efforts and land top transfer portal additions, has become the effective form of support.
On Monday, Message Board Geniuses released its top-10 "Most loyal college football fanbases" with Nebraska coming in at No. 1, followed by Texas A&M at No. 2, which makes perfect sense given both programs' struggle to match their success in the 1990's, especially the Cornhuskers, who dominated with three national championships in 1994, 1995, and 1997 under legendary head coach Tom Osborne.
Texas A&M came close to competing for a national **** le multiple times under former coach R. C. Slocum, who finished his A&M coaching career 123-47-2, including three Southwest Conference **** les and one Big 12 Championship during the 1998 season. Since then, Texas A&M has undergone five coaching changes, and Mike Elko will enter his third season at the helm after leading the Aggies to the College Football Playoff last season.
Texas A&M alums gleefully greet one another with "Gig 'em" or "Howdy!" and will stand throughout every home game in Kyle Field, no matter the team's record. The best example of steadfast support for the Maroon & White came during the 2022 season, when the Aggies finished 5-7 and, despite home losses to Ole Miss and Florida, wins against UMass and LSU, at least 90,000 fans made their way to Kyle Field.
Last season, over 100,000-plus Aggies attended every home game, including 108,582 during Texas A&M's epic comeback win vs. South Carolina.
#college #Football #every #field
On Monday, Message Board Geniuses released its top-10 "Most loyal college football fanbases" with Nebraska coming in at No. 1, followed by Texas A&M at No. 2, which makes perfect sense given both programs' struggle to match their success in the 1990's, especially the Cornhuskers, who dominated with three national championships in 1994, 1995, and 1997 under legendary head coach Tom Osborne.
Texas A&M came close to competing for a national **** le multiple times under former coach R. C. Slocum, who finished his A&M coaching career 123-47-2, including three Southwest Conference **** les and one Big 12 Championship during the 1998 season. Since then, Texas A&M has undergone five coaching changes, and Mike Elko will enter his third season at the helm after leading the Aggies to the College Football Playoff last season.
Texas A&M alums gleefully greet one another with "Gig 'em" or "Howdy!" and will stand throughout every home game in Kyle Field, no matter the team's record. The best example of steadfast support for the Maroon & White came during the 2022 season, when the Aggies finished 5-7 and, despite home losses to Ole Miss and Florida, wins against UMass and LSU, at least 90,000 fans made their way to Kyle Field.
Last season, over 100,000-plus Aggies attended every home game, including 108,582 during Texas A&M's epic comeback win vs. South Carolina.
#college #Football #every #field
7 days ago
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Curtis Mead has left his first game with the Boston Red Sox after being hit on the left wrist by a pitch against the Athletics.
Mead struck out looking in the first at-bat of his Boston debut Monday night and was struck on the wrist by A's starter Jack Perkins in the fourth. Mead tried to shake off the pain, but left the game after being checked by the Red Sox's trainer.
The Red Sox acquired Mead on Saturday in a trade that sent left-hander Connelly Early to Washington.
Mead is hitting .253 with 17 home runs and 48 RBIs this season.
___
#mead #first #sacramento
Mead struck out looking in the first at-bat of his Boston debut Monday night and was struck on the wrist by A's starter Jack Perkins in the fourth. Mead tried to shake off the pain, but left the game after being checked by the Red Sox's trainer.
The Red Sox acquired Mead on Saturday in a trade that sent left-hander Connelly Early to Washington.
Mead is hitting .253 with 17 home runs and 48 RBIs this season.
___
#mead #first #sacramento
10 days ago
Jeff Monken heads into Army football preseason camp feeling pretty good.
"I like our team,'' he said during a Friday press conference at the American Conference football media days in St. Petersburg, Florida. "We've got some positions where certainly we have more experience than others. We've got a relatively inexperienced defense, but that's college football, and at Army we can't sign them to a new contract … we do have graduation. We lost some good players to graduation but really excited about the guys we have coming back.''
Though the American did not produce a preseason poll, nor a preseason all-star team, the Black Knights have been well-represented on the preseason lists produced by national college football magazines, garnering nine selections from Athlon Magazine and 10 from Phil Steele Magazine. As for polls, Steele has Army finishing fifth, Athlon and Lindy's Magazine has Army in fourth and The Sporting News has Army seventh.
Army opens preseason practice on Aug. 5, four weeks ahead of the Sept. 5 opener with visiting Bryant. Monken heads into his 13th season at West Point, coming off a 7-6 campaign, a 4-4 mark in the American and a Fenway Bowl win over Connecticut.
More: College football TV, radio, web schedules for 2026
#preseason #american #we 've #athlon
"I like our team,'' he said during a Friday press conference at the American Conference football media days in St. Petersburg, Florida. "We've got some positions where certainly we have more experience than others. We've got a relatively inexperienced defense, but that's college football, and at Army we can't sign them to a new contract … we do have graduation. We lost some good players to graduation but really excited about the guys we have coming back.''
Though the American did not produce a preseason poll, nor a preseason all-star team, the Black Knights have been well-represented on the preseason lists produced by national college football magazines, garnering nine selections from Athlon Magazine and 10 from Phil Steele Magazine. As for polls, Steele has Army finishing fifth, Athlon and Lindy's Magazine has Army in fourth and The Sporting News has Army seventh.
Army opens preseason practice on Aug. 5, four weeks ahead of the Sept. 5 opener with visiting Bryant. Monken heads into his 13th season at West Point, coming off a 7-6 campaign, a 4-4 mark in the American and a Fenway Bowl win over Connecticut.
More: College football TV, radio, web schedules for 2026
#preseason #american #we 've #athlon
11 days ago
Rylan Hurley won the voting for the Akron Area Boys Athlete of the Year for the 2025-26 school year.
Hurley, a three-sport standout at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, received 44.35% of the votes cast. A total of 8,147 votes were cast overall.
Look for more on Hurley below. Akron Area Best of the School Year voting continues on beaconjournal.com next Tuesday.
Watch Ohio High School Sports Live on the NFHS Network all season
A three-sport athlete who starred in football, wrestling and baseball for the Irish.
#hurley #voting
Hurley, a three-sport standout at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, received 44.35% of the votes cast. A total of 8,147 votes were cast overall.
Look for more on Hurley below. Akron Area Best of the School Year voting continues on beaconjournal.com next Tuesday.
Watch Ohio High School Sports Live on the NFHS Network all season
A three-sport athlete who starred in football, wrestling and baseball for the Irish.
#hurley #voting
11 days ago
The Jaffna Kings will continue their Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026 campaign despite their franchise rights being terminated by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and tournament organiser Innovative Production Group (IPG) over financial and contractual breaches. The decision, announced on Thursday, sees all franchise rights revert to IPG, which, alongside SLC, has ******* umed complete operational control of the four-time champions to ensure the tournament proceeds without disruption.
According to SLC and IPG, the franchise owners failed to fulfil their financial obligations under the franchise agreement. The termination comes in the middle of the tournament following a series of controversies surrounding the ownership group, Sports Commune.
Co-owner Manjot Kalra was arrested over corruption-related allegations, while another owner, Mayank Goel, has become unreachable. The ownership group also allegedly failed to pay player and staff salaries and mismanaged sponsor funds, leading to the cancellation of the franchise agreement.
As a result, IPG and SLC have taken direct control of the team's operations. Despite the ownership shake-up, the Jaffna Kings will continue under the same name with their existing squad, coaching staff and support personnel.
IPG CEO Anil Mohan stressed that safeguarding the tournament's integrity remained the organisers' top priority.
"While this was a difficult decision, our priority has always been to protect the integrity of the Lanka Premier League and ensure complete stability for our players, coaches, partners and fans. Together with Sri Lanka Cricket, we have acted swiftly to ensure the Jaffna Kings continue to participate in the tournament without disruption. We want to ******* ure everyone that all operational matters, including player contracts, staff commitments and team logistics, are being managed seamlessly. The sixth edition of the LPL will proceed as planned, and we remain fully committed to delivering another successful and world-class tournament," Anil Mohan said.
On the field, the Bhanuka Rajapaksa-led Jaffna Kings have made a positive start to their campaign, winning two of their first three matches. The sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League began on July 17 and is scheduled to conclude on August 8.
#lanka #jaffna #kings #league
According to SLC and IPG, the franchise owners failed to fulfil their financial obligations under the franchise agreement. The termination comes in the middle of the tournament following a series of controversies surrounding the ownership group, Sports Commune.
Co-owner Manjot Kalra was arrested over corruption-related allegations, while another owner, Mayank Goel, has become unreachable. The ownership group also allegedly failed to pay player and staff salaries and mismanaged sponsor funds, leading to the cancellation of the franchise agreement.
As a result, IPG and SLC have taken direct control of the team's operations. Despite the ownership shake-up, the Jaffna Kings will continue under the same name with their existing squad, coaching staff and support personnel.
IPG CEO Anil Mohan stressed that safeguarding the tournament's integrity remained the organisers' top priority.
"While this was a difficult decision, our priority has always been to protect the integrity of the Lanka Premier League and ensure complete stability for our players, coaches, partners and fans. Together with Sri Lanka Cricket, we have acted swiftly to ensure the Jaffna Kings continue to participate in the tournament without disruption. We want to ******* ure everyone that all operational matters, including player contracts, staff commitments and team logistics, are being managed seamlessly. The sixth edition of the LPL will proceed as planned, and we remain fully committed to delivering another successful and world-class tournament," Anil Mohan said.
On the field, the Bhanuka Rajapaksa-led Jaffna Kings have made a positive start to their campaign, winning two of their first three matches. The sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League began on July 17 and is scheduled to conclude on August 8.
#lanka #jaffna #kings #league
11 days ago
It has been nearly two weeks since Jose Mourinho returned to train the available players at Real Madrid. The Merengues began their preseason on 13th July, and over the last few days, have also been joined by two players who participated in the World Cup, i.e., Arda Guler and Federico Valverde. The rest of the World Cup players are expected to return to the club in the coming few days.
Meanwhile, the new coach has also had time enough to ***** s the players that have been training under him so far, and he has already made his decisions about the futures of some of these players. For instance, he has given the green light for the departure of the young forward Franco Mastantuono on loan.
Another player about whom he has made his decision is the center-back Raul Asencio. According to SPORT, the Spaniard is not a part of the Portuguese coach’s plans, and the manager has already communicated this to the player.
The Merengues are ready to part ways with Asencio either or loan or through a permanent sale. The defender’s market value has decreased from €40 million to €20 million over the last year, and clubs like Galatasaray and Lazio have been linked with him recently.
However, a significant barrier to his departure could be his high wages. Last summer, they significantly increased his wages, which went up to €8 million including his salary and bonuses.
#merengues #coach #already
Meanwhile, the new coach has also had time enough to ***** s the players that have been training under him so far, and he has already made his decisions about the futures of some of these players. For instance, he has given the green light for the departure of the young forward Franco Mastantuono on loan.
Another player about whom he has made his decision is the center-back Raul Asencio. According to SPORT, the Spaniard is not a part of the Portuguese coach’s plans, and the manager has already communicated this to the player.
The Merengues are ready to part ways with Asencio either or loan or through a permanent sale. The defender’s market value has decreased from €40 million to €20 million over the last year, and clubs like Galatasaray and Lazio have been linked with him recently.
However, a significant barrier to his departure could be his high wages. Last summer, they significantly increased his wages, which went up to €8 million including his salary and bonuses.
#merengues #coach #already
12 days ago
U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley criticized the WNBA Wednesday, saying it had been "unfair" to former University of Iowa basketball star Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever. Shown here, Clark reacts against the Atlanta Dream on Aug. 26, 2024 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)
U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley criticized the WNBA Wednesday, saying former University of Iowa women’s basketball star Caitlin Clark has been treated “unfairly” since joining the league in 2024.
The statement comes as part of a news release Wednesday following an incident that occurred during a WNBA game between the Phoenix Mercury and Indiana Fever on June 24, where Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas made contact with Clark’s throat while the two were diving for a loose ball. Thomas also stepped over Clark after the play.
The WNBA announced the following day that the league had suspended Thomas for one game due to a “non-basketball play” and “recklessly making contact with her fist to the throat area.” Although the WNBA suspended Thomas, the incident garnered controversy from fans, as no foul was called during the game immediately following the physical contact.
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#clark #contact #chuck
U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley criticized the WNBA Wednesday, saying former University of Iowa women’s basketball star Caitlin Clark has been treated “unfairly” since joining the league in 2024.
The statement comes as part of a news release Wednesday following an incident that occurred during a WNBA game between the Phoenix Mercury and Indiana Fever on June 24, where Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas made contact with Clark’s throat while the two were diving for a loose ball. Thomas also stepped over Clark after the play.
The WNBA announced the following day that the league had suspended Thomas for one game due to a “non-basketball play” and “recklessly making contact with her fist to the throat area.” Although the WNBA suspended Thomas, the incident garnered controversy from fans, as no foul was called during the game immediately following the physical contact.
SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX.
#clark #contact #chuck
12 days ago
When Iowa State announced the impending retirement of longtime athletics director Jamie Pollard, the Cyclones gave themselves a year-long runway to make the handover.
It won't, however, apparently take nearly that long.
"As soon as they hire the new AD, I will exit stage left," Pollard said in an interview with 365 Sports on July 21. "I just believe that's the way it should be. They don't need somebody hanging around looking over their shoulder or getting in the way.
"I would envision that actually they'll get that person on board probably late fall, and maybe that will coincide with me lasting through the football season, but I won't be here during the basketball season."
When announcing the retirement on July 10, Iowa State said Pollard would retire by June 30, 2027, "or when a new athletics director is in place." Pollard's comments, though, suggest that the Cyclones will have a new boss by the end of the calendar year.
#iowa #state #director #year
It won't, however, apparently take nearly that long.
"As soon as they hire the new AD, I will exit stage left," Pollard said in an interview with 365 Sports on July 21. "I just believe that's the way it should be. They don't need somebody hanging around looking over their shoulder or getting in the way.
"I would envision that actually they'll get that person on board probably late fall, and maybe that will coincide with me lasting through the football season, but I won't be here during the basketball season."
When announcing the retirement on July 10, Iowa State said Pollard would retire by June 30, 2027, "or when a new athletics director is in place." Pollard's comments, though, suggest that the Cyclones will have a new boss by the end of the calendar year.
#iowa #state #director #year
13 days ago
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has held talks about joining the Amit Bhatia-fronted consortium that has expressed interest in buying a minority stake in Liverpool, according to reports on Wednesday.
Bezos, one of the world's richest men, could become part of the group led by British-Indian businessman Bhatia, the son-in-law of billionaire steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal.
Sky News reported Bezos' interest but said he is not certain to proceed with the potential plan.
The 62-year-old American is estimated by Forbes to be worth around £192 billion ($257 billion).
Liverpool's owners Fenway Sports Group confirmed on Tuesday Bhatia's consortium had approached them to discuss buying a minority stake in the 20-time English champions.
#interest #billion
Bezos, one of the world's richest men, could become part of the group led by British-Indian businessman Bhatia, the son-in-law of billionaire steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal.
Sky News reported Bezos' interest but said he is not certain to proceed with the potential plan.
The 62-year-old American is estimated by Forbes to be worth around £192 billion ($257 billion).
Liverpool's owners Fenway Sports Group confirmed on Tuesday Bhatia's consortium had approached them to discuss buying a minority stake in the 20-time English champions.
#interest #billion
20 days ago
Christos Tzolis's proposed move to ***** nal is reportedly 'set to accelerate'.
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Ben Jacobs notes on X (formerly Twitter) that the deal – potentially costing around £30m-35m – will have no impact on the Gunners' push to bring Morgan Rogers to north London.
This comes despite the Greek forward publicly suggesting he'd sign off on a transfer to a 'crazy team' like Liverpool.
Another day, another rival closing in on a move for a quality footballer – and this one potentially coming at an astonishingly low price in the current market.
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Ben Jacobs notes on X (formerly Twitter) that the deal – potentially costing around £30m-35m – will have no impact on the Gunners' push to bring Morgan Rogers to north London.
This comes despite the Greek forward publicly suggesting he'd sign off on a transfer to a 'crazy team' like Liverpool.
Another day, another rival closing in on a move for a quality footballer – and this one potentially coming at an astonishingly low price in the current market.
20 days ago
England and Argentina are set to face off for the first time in more than 20 years in Atlanta on Wednesday, and they will do so with a place in the 2026 World Cup final on the line.
WATCH — England vs Argentina
At this tournament alone, Messi will have realized a pair of career firsts: a World Cup hat trick, and his first-ever game against England. The last England and Argentina played was a friendly in 2005. Messi missed the game due to suspension, after he was sent off 47 seconds into his international debut.
Both sides needed extra time to dispatch their quarterfinal foes — England 2-1 over Norway; Argentina 3-1 over Switzerland.
Kick off time: 3 pm ET Wednesday, July 15
Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium — Atlanta
TV Channel: Telemundo
Streaming: Stream live on Peacock, en Espanol
WATCH — England vs Argentina
At this tournament alone, Messi will have realized a pair of career firsts: a World Cup hat trick, and his first-ever game against England. The last England and Argentina played was a friendly in 2005. Messi missed the game due to suspension, after he was sent off 47 seconds into his international debut.
Both sides needed extra time to dispatch their quarterfinal foes — England 2-1 over Norway; Argentina 3-1 over Switzerland.
Kick off time: 3 pm ET Wednesday, July 15
Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium — Atlanta
TV Channel: Telemundo
Streaming: Stream live on Peacock, en Espanol
20 days ago
The largest Barcelona contingent in World Cup 2026 will play for the biggest ******* le in sports as Spain clinched a spot in Sunday’s Final thanks to a comprehensive 2-0 win over France in Tuesday’s semi-final in Dallas. La Roja saved their best for last and played a spectacular team game against the tournament favorites, thoroughly dominating Les Bleus from start to finish in a true footballing lesson.
Spain established their superiority from the very beginning, dominating the ball, controlling midfield thanks to exceptional performances from Rodri and Fabián Ruiz, and creating danger in the final third with Dani Olmo playing at a very high level.
France offered zero actual threat and their entire frontline played well below their usual standards, and Spain took a deserved lead when Lamine Yamal was kicked by Lucas Digne inside the box and Mikel Oyarzabal scored a great penalty.
La Roja’s superiority continued into the second half as Rodri and Fabián increased their dominance and France’s threat was totally nullified. Spain deserved a second goal and got it thanks to a wonderful ******* ist by Olmo and a perfect finish from Pedro Porro, and the win was all but secured.
Yamal was a terror on the right wing all game and scored a brilliant goal that was ruled out for a minor offside, but Spain remained in control and were able to sustain the late French pressure that resulted in some good moments but never came close to threatening Unai Simón in the Spanish goal.
Spain established their superiority from the very beginning, dominating the ball, controlling midfield thanks to exceptional performances from Rodri and Fabián Ruiz, and creating danger in the final third with Dani Olmo playing at a very high level.
France offered zero actual threat and their entire frontline played well below their usual standards, and Spain took a deserved lead when Lamine Yamal was kicked by Lucas Digne inside the box and Mikel Oyarzabal scored a great penalty.
La Roja’s superiority continued into the second half as Rodri and Fabián increased their dominance and France’s threat was totally nullified. Spain deserved a second goal and got it thanks to a wonderful ******* ist by Olmo and a perfect finish from Pedro Porro, and the win was all but secured.
Yamal was a terror on the right wing all game and scored a brilliant goal that was ruled out for a minor offside, but Spain remained in control and were able to sustain the late French pressure that resulted in some good moments but never came close to threatening Unai Simón in the Spanish goal.
20 days ago
Green Bay Packers defensive lineman Warren Brinson saw the field plenty as a rookie, especially for a sixth-round pick, playing nearly 300 defensive snaps in his first season as a pro.
That was despite not making his NFL debut until Week 6. He did himself justice and was no liability for the Packers defense despite his humble draft status, giving credence to the idea that he could have been drafted earlier, having performed well for Georgia during his college years.
Brinson’s percentile ranks among defensive tackles across the league show the impact he was able to have as a rookie.
What stands out the most in a positive sense is Brinson’s performance as a pass rusher.
He put up 14 pressures in just 173 pass rush snaps, showing a good level of disruption. Brinson ranked 18th among 121 eligible defensive tackles in pass rush win rate and led all rookies who played enough snaps to qualify. When facing true pass sets, he ranked 21st in pass rush win rate.
That was despite not making his NFL debut until Week 6. He did himself justice and was no liability for the Packers defense despite his humble draft status, giving credence to the idea that he could have been drafted earlier, having performed well for Georgia during his college years.
Brinson’s percentile ranks among defensive tackles across the league show the impact he was able to have as a rookie.
What stands out the most in a positive sense is Brinson’s performance as a pass rusher.
He put up 14 pressures in just 173 pass rush snaps, showing a good level of disruption. Brinson ranked 18th among 121 eligible defensive tackles in pass rush win rate and led all rookies who played enough snaps to qualify. When facing true pass sets, he ranked 21st in pass rush win rate.
21 days ago
Home Run Derby live updates, results, highlights from 2026 MLB HR contest on Netflix originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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MLB Home Run Derby results
MLB Home Run Derby updates
How to watch MLB Home Run Derby
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MLB Home Run Derby results
MLB Home Run Derby updates
How to watch MLB Home Run Derby
21 days ago
Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain are exploring a summer move to re-sign Aston Villa left-back Lucas Digne, with the French club actively considering triggering a release clause in his contract. Unai Emery is at Villa Park. This move would mark a full-circle moment for the 32-year-old defender, who previously played at Parc des Princes from 2013 to 2016. Digne’s profile has risen considerably in recent years, highlighted by his prominent role for France during their successful 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in North America. He played the full 90 minutes in Les Bleus’ 2-0 quarter-final win over Morocco, helping secure a semi-final berth against Spain.
PSG have identified Digne as an ideal solution to strengthen their defensive depth, and the release clause in his current Villa contract allows PSG to bypass direct club-to-club negotiations.
For Aston Villa manager Unai Emery, PSG’s interest in Digne adds to an already complex summer window. The Midlands club are currently battling to keep key first-team players, fending off ***** nal’s pursuit of Morgan Rogers so far and rejecting lowball offers from Italy for goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez. Additionally, a long-term ACL injury to midfielder Amadou Onana has forced Villa into the market for Johan Manzambi as they prepare to bid farewell to Youri Tielemans, who is set to join Manchester United.
Losing a dependable and experienced full-back like Digne due to a sudden activation of a release clause would further complicate Villa’s squad planning. However, with the defender currently focused on international duty, no definitive decision will be made until France’s World Cup campaign concludes.
PSG have identified Digne as an ideal solution to strengthen their defensive depth, and the release clause in his current Villa contract allows PSG to bypass direct club-to-club negotiations.
For Aston Villa manager Unai Emery, PSG’s interest in Digne adds to an already complex summer window. The Midlands club are currently battling to keep key first-team players, fending off ***** nal’s pursuit of Morgan Rogers so far and rejecting lowball offers from Italy for goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez. Additionally, a long-term ACL injury to midfielder Amadou Onana has forced Villa into the market for Johan Manzambi as they prepare to bid farewell to Youri Tielemans, who is set to join Manchester United.
Losing a dependable and experienced full-back like Digne due to a sudden activation of a release clause would further complicate Villa’s squad planning. However, with the defender currently focused on international duty, no definitive decision will be made until France’s World Cup campaign concludes.
22 days ago
This week, Philadelphia will host its first All-Star Game in thirty years, and a local artist got to cement himself as part of its history.
Andre Chaney created the All-Star themed Liberty Bell, which can now be seen at the ballpark.
In collaboration with "Bells Across PA," it is one of many fiberglass statues placed in the region to celebrate America's 250th anniversary.
The project was in partnership with Mural Arts Philadelphia and is ******* led "America's Summer Tradition."
Five Phillies legends were painted onto the piece, all who participated in previous All-Star games: "Dick Allen, Mike Schmidt, Ryan Howard, Jimmy Rollins, and Bryce Harper."
Andre Chaney created the All-Star themed Liberty Bell, which can now be seen at the ballpark.
In collaboration with "Bells Across PA," it is one of many fiberglass statues placed in the region to celebrate America's 250th anniversary.
The project was in partnership with Mural Arts Philadelphia and is ******* led "America's Summer Tradition."
Five Phillies legends were painted onto the piece, all who participated in previous All-Star games: "Dick Allen, Mike Schmidt, Ryan Howard, Jimmy Rollins, and Bryce Harper."
22 days ago
How Yankees could have 'no choice' but to make bold Aaron Boone decision after 2026 season originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New York Yankees are having a bit of a rough stretch right now, as they've faltered a little bit in the AL East, and the loss of Aaron Judge has been impacting the team in a big way recently.
Currently at 53-42 ahead of their last game before the MLB All-Star break, the Yankees are 4.0 games back on the AL East ***** le, and 6.5 games up on the AL Wild Card field. While things aren't ideal, they're still a likely postseason team.
But, as USA Today's Bob Nightengale highlighted, if the Yankees' playoff bid isn't successful, or things go south again this postseason, Aaron Boone's job might not be safe, as Brian Cashman might have "no choice" but to change things after this year.
"Yet, if the Yankees don't win the AL East this year, if the Yankees don't play deep into October, or if somehow the Yankees miss the playoffs altogether, Cashman might have no choice but to make a change for only the fourth time in 30 years," Nightengale writes.
The New York Yankees are having a bit of a rough stretch right now, as they've faltered a little bit in the AL East, and the loss of Aaron Judge has been impacting the team in a big way recently.
Currently at 53-42 ahead of their last game before the MLB All-Star break, the Yankees are 4.0 games back on the AL East ***** le, and 6.5 games up on the AL Wild Card field. While things aren't ideal, they're still a likely postseason team.
But, as USA Today's Bob Nightengale highlighted, if the Yankees' playoff bid isn't successful, or things go south again this postseason, Aaron Boone's job might not be safe, as Brian Cashman might have "no choice" but to change things after this year.
"Yet, if the Yankees don't win the AL East this year, if the Yankees don't play deep into October, or if somehow the Yankees miss the playoffs altogether, Cashman might have no choice but to make a change for only the fourth time in 30 years," Nightengale writes.
23 days ago
Aiden Robbins is a member of the New York Mets organization.
Robbins, a Holy Ghost Prep graduate who starred at Texas this spring, was the 92nd pick midway through the third round in Saturday's MLB Draft.
The Robbins family hosted a draft party for friends and family in Lower Makefield, so he got to experience the moment with those close to him.
Robbins, a right-handed outfielder, was projected to go as early as No. 16, with most mock drafts having him anywhere from the 20s to the 50s. MLB.com had him ranked 29th in this year's draft class.
The 6-foot-2, 200-pound Robbins led College World Series qualifier Texas in home runs (24), RBIs (64), hits (79), slugging percentage (.696) while batting .333 with 10 doubles after playing his first two college seasons for Seton Hall. He was named a Baseball America first-team All-American outfielder this season.
Robbins, a Holy Ghost Prep graduate who starred at Texas this spring, was the 92nd pick midway through the third round in Saturday's MLB Draft.
The Robbins family hosted a draft party for friends and family in Lower Makefield, so he got to experience the moment with those close to him.
Robbins, a right-handed outfielder, was projected to go as early as No. 16, with most mock drafts having him anywhere from the 20s to the 50s. MLB.com had him ranked 29th in this year's draft class.
The 6-foot-2, 200-pound Robbins led College World Series qualifier Texas in home runs (24), RBIs (64), hits (79), slugging percentage (.696) while batting .333 with 10 doubles after playing his first two college seasons for Seton Hall. He was named a Baseball America first-team All-American outfielder this season.
23 days ago
LIVERPOOL, England (AP) — England mollified its critics for a week after smothering a dismal Fiji by a record 73-8 in Nations Championship rugby on Saturday.
Relevant questions about England's lineup, tactics and attitude after the hammering from world champion South Africa in Johannesburg last weekend were pacified somewhat by coming home and posting an equally unsurprising 11-try win against outclassed Fiji.
Fiji struggled for possession and could not handle England's scrum, maul and defense. Under pressure, Fiji conceded 12 penalties — nine by halftime — and a red card to scrumhalf Simione Kuruvoli for lashing out with his boot into the stomach of Ellis Genge.
That meant Fiji played the entire second half down a man and England could play wider and be ruthless. Up 35-3 at halftime, England added six more tries, including a hat trick for replacement flanker Henry Pollock. Fin Smith converted nine.
England tallied a record score against Fiji and its biggest win since beating Chile 71-0 in Lille at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Relevant questions about England's lineup, tactics and attitude after the hammering from world champion South Africa in Johannesburg last weekend were pacified somewhat by coming home and posting an equally unsurprising 11-try win against outclassed Fiji.
Fiji struggled for possession and could not handle England's scrum, maul and defense. Under pressure, Fiji conceded 12 penalties — nine by halftime — and a red card to scrumhalf Simione Kuruvoli for lashing out with his boot into the stomach of Ellis Genge.
That meant Fiji played the entire second half down a man and England could play wider and be ruthless. Up 35-3 at halftime, England added six more tries, including a hat trick for replacement flanker Henry Pollock. Fin Smith converted nine.
England tallied a record score against Fiji and its biggest win since beating Chile 71-0 in Lille at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
24 days ago
The thousands of Norwegians rowing are THE standout fan highlight of this World Cup.
Whether in Times Square, Boston, or stadiums all across North America, the Scandinavian supporters are basically setting sail everywhere.
And where better to do that than on the beaches of Miami?
Ahead of Saturday evening's quarter-final against England (11 p.m.), the Norwegians also descended on the Sunshine State and made a very clear statement there.
We're looking forward to more rowing displays at Miami Stadium in just a few hours...
Whether in Times Square, Boston, or stadiums all across North America, the Scandinavian supporters are basically setting sail everywhere.
And where better to do that than on the beaches of Miami?
Ahead of Saturday evening's quarter-final against England (11 p.m.), the Norwegians also descended on the Sunshine State and made a very clear statement there.
We're looking forward to more rowing displays at Miami Stadium in just a few hours...
24 days ago
ST. LOUIS (AP) — St. Louis Cardinals catcher Iván Herrera was named Friday to the National League All-Star team as an injury replacement for Los Angeles Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani.
Tampa Bay pitcher Nick Martinez, Boston outfielder Ceddanne Rafaela and Chicago White Sox rookie first baseman Munetaka Murakami were named injury replacements in the American League.
All four players are first-time selections. The All-Star Game is Tuesday night in at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.
"It's a dream," the 26-year-old Herrera said. "Everybody thinks about going to an All-Star Game. You just can't describe the feelings. I'm just excited for it and trying to take it all in right now."
The Panama native entered Friday batting .249 with 11 homers, 40 RBIs and a .780 OPS. He has been hit by pitches a league-leading 24 times this season.
Tampa Bay pitcher Nick Martinez, Boston outfielder Ceddanne Rafaela and Chicago White Sox rookie first baseman Munetaka Murakami were named injury replacements in the American League.
All four players are first-time selections. The All-Star Game is Tuesday night in at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.
"It's a dream," the 26-year-old Herrera said. "Everybody thinks about going to an All-Star Game. You just can't describe the feelings. I'm just excited for it and trying to take it all in right now."
The Panama native entered Friday batting .249 with 11 homers, 40 RBIs and a .780 OPS. He has been hit by pitches a league-leading 24 times this season.
24 days ago
Tim Merlier sprinted to victory on stage seven of the Tour de France in Bordeaux on Friday as Tadej Pogačar stayed safe in the yellow jersey.
Soudal-QuickStep's Merlier was several places back on the final approach but picked his moment to charge past Jasper Philipsen and take his fourth career Tour stage win in a scrappy finish.
As riders ****** ped shoulders Alpecin-Premier Tech's Philipsen, the winner the last time the Tour visited Bordeaux in 2023, opened up early after being dropped off by lead-out man Mathieu van der Poel more than 250 metres from the line, running out of steam as he finished fifth.
Søren Wærenskjold was second just ahead of Biniam Girmay.
"It was a mess to be in position," Merlier said of the fight for ****** e on the road. "I made it thanks to the team, great work from all of them…
Soudal-QuickStep's Merlier was several places back on the final approach but picked his moment to charge past Jasper Philipsen and take his fourth career Tour stage win in a scrappy finish.
As riders ****** ped shoulders Alpecin-Premier Tech's Philipsen, the winner the last time the Tour visited Bordeaux in 2023, opened up early after being dropped off by lead-out man Mathieu van der Poel more than 250 metres from the line, running out of steam as he finished fifth.
Søren Wærenskjold was second just ahead of Biniam Girmay.
"It was a mess to be in position," Merlier said of the fight for ****** e on the road. "I made it thanks to the team, great work from all of them…
