2 hours ago
Where to watch AAU Junior Olympics 2026: Schedule, times, channels, live streams for track and field events originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Marking its landmark 60th year of competition, the AAU Junior Olympics are returning for another edition of the country's largest multi-sport event.
The AAU Junior Olympics are a major starting point for youth athletes every year, championing the next generation of international track stars. Competitors between the ages of 8 to 18 will head to Des Moines for a chance to set records and win medals.
Though track and field is the highlight, more than 20 sports will be represented at Drake University this week, from gymnastics to volleyball and even martial arts. More than 15,000 of the nation's most qualified youth athletes will be competing come Saturday.
Here's everything you need to know about the 2026 AAU Junior Olympics, including TV channel and streaming options for the track and field event.
#year
Marking its landmark 60th year of competition, the AAU Junior Olympics are returning for another edition of the country's largest multi-sport event.
The AAU Junior Olympics are a major starting point for youth athletes every year, championing the next generation of international track stars. Competitors between the ages of 8 to 18 will head to Des Moines for a chance to set records and win medals.
Though track and field is the highlight, more than 20 sports will be represented at Drake University this week, from gymnastics to volleyball and even martial arts. More than 15,000 of the nation's most qualified youth athletes will be competing come Saturday.
Here's everything you need to know about the 2026 AAU Junior Olympics, including TV channel and streaming options for the track and field event.
#year
14 hours ago
Last week, the UIL announced new heat safety protocols for high school athletes. It involves using a measurement called the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature to dictate whether weather conditions are deemed safe for outdoor activities such as football practice or marching band.
The wet bulb globe temperature is another way to quantify the impact of hot days on the body. Compared to the heat index, it gives a more comprehensive look at the heat's impact by factoring in the air temperature, humidity, winds, sky condition, and sun angle to get a final value. That's why the wet bulb globe is a better estimate for real-time heat risk for a given location, and why that value is now the ultimate deciding factor for if it's safe to practice outdoors in the heat or not.
Kingwood High School head football coach Stacy Williams says using the wet bulb globe temperature is a game changer in keeping his athletes safe, and something they're working around.
"If the trainer says we're in the orange right now or in the yellow, we have to come out of our shoulder pads. That's what we have to do," said Williams.
Additionally, practice is also being scheduled earlier in the morning or later at night to accommodate his athletes in the heat.
#athletes #practice #williams
The wet bulb globe temperature is another way to quantify the impact of hot days on the body. Compared to the heat index, it gives a more comprehensive look at the heat's impact by factoring in the air temperature, humidity, winds, sky condition, and sun angle to get a final value. That's why the wet bulb globe is a better estimate for real-time heat risk for a given location, and why that value is now the ultimate deciding factor for if it's safe to practice outdoors in the heat or not.
Kingwood High School head football coach Stacy Williams says using the wet bulb globe temperature is a game changer in keeping his athletes safe, and something they're working around.
"If the trainer says we're in the orange right now or in the yellow, we have to come out of our shoulder pads. That's what we have to do," said Williams.
Additionally, practice is also being scheduled earlier in the morning or later at night to accommodate his athletes in the heat.
#athletes #practice #williams
1 day ago
Iowa women's basketball recently offered 2030 guard Joy Pettigrew.
The 5-foot-10 Illinois native stars for Bolingbrook High School and plays club ball with Mac Irvin Lady Fire P24.
Along with Iowa, Pettigrew has received notable offers from Ole Miss, Baylor, Florida, and Big Ten foes Wisconsin, Illinois and Ohio State.
While Pettigrew's commitment decision will not come for some time, Jan Jensen and the Hawkeyes are among the first to extend an offer to Pettigrew, which could pay dividends in her recruitment.
Contact/Follow us HawkeyesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Iowa news, notes and opinions. Follow Scout on X: SpringgateNews
#pettigrew
The 5-foot-10 Illinois native stars for Bolingbrook High School and plays club ball with Mac Irvin Lady Fire P24.
Along with Iowa, Pettigrew has received notable offers from Ole Miss, Baylor, Florida, and Big Ten foes Wisconsin, Illinois and Ohio State.
While Pettigrew's commitment decision will not come for some time, Jan Jensen and the Hawkeyes are among the first to extend an offer to Pettigrew, which could pay dividends in her recruitment.
Contact/Follow us HawkeyesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Iowa news, notes and opinions. Follow Scout on X: SpringgateNews
#pettigrew
2 days ago
It's The Basketball Tournament Championship game day!
La Familia takes on Davis Steel today at Historic Memorial Coliseum in Lexington with $2 million on the line for the winner.
Davis Steel has previously been known as Eberlein Drive in past years in the TBT, and knocked La Familia out of TBT last summer. Interestingly enough, Davis Steel was a sponsor of La Familia last year during TBT.
It's been an exciting run for La Familia through the tournament with some big wins and memorable moments, but today is the day that La Familia can cap it all off with a big win.
If you're headed out to Historic Memorial Coliseum today, remember that today is a white-out! And if you're planning to watch from home today, we've got all the info you need to know.
#davis
La Familia takes on Davis Steel today at Historic Memorial Coliseum in Lexington with $2 million on the line for the winner.
Davis Steel has previously been known as Eberlein Drive in past years in the TBT, and knocked La Familia out of TBT last summer. Interestingly enough, Davis Steel was a sponsor of La Familia last year during TBT.
It's been an exciting run for La Familia through the tournament with some big wins and memorable moments, but today is the day that La Familia can cap it all off with a big win.
If you're headed out to Historic Memorial Coliseum today, remember that today is a white-out! And if you're planning to watch from home today, we've got all the info you need to know.
#davis
3 days ago
Olivia Moultrie's competitive drive began at a young age. When she was 7, she had a goal to be the best soccer player in the world.
When she was 15, Moultrie won a legal battle to remove the National Women's Soccer League's age barrier. At the age of 18, she made her debut with the U.S. women's national team.
On this episode of "Deseret Voices," the Portland Thorns midfielder chats with Deseret News reporter Krysyan Edler about her soccer exploits and about the role faith plays in her life.
Subscribe to "Deseret Voices" on YouTube, Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
Note: Transcript edited by Steven Watkins.
#deseret #moultrie
When she was 15, Moultrie won a legal battle to remove the National Women's Soccer League's age barrier. At the age of 18, she made her debut with the U.S. women's national team.
On this episode of "Deseret Voices," the Portland Thorns midfielder chats with Deseret News reporter Krysyan Edler about her soccer exploits and about the role faith plays in her life.
Subscribe to "Deseret Voices" on YouTube, Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
Note: Transcript edited by Steven Watkins.
#deseret #moultrie
3 days ago
The Cleveland Browns and perennial Pro Bowl cornerback Denzel Ward agreed to a contract extension, keeping him in his hometown for at least three more seasons. The deal was reported as a two-year deal, worth $62.2 million.
Now, the full details of that contract have been released, thanks to Over the Cap.
According to Over the Cap, Ward's new contract only gives him a slight ***** p in his cap number in 2026, backloading the deal. His base pay, however, is the veteran minimum, giving the Browns a massive ***** p in functional cap ***** e to work with this season or carry over into 2027. The Browns now sit with right around $28 million in cap ***** e after extending Ward and lowering his base salary.
They were able to do this by giving Ward a massive $17.2 million signing bonus, a figure that does not count against the cap, but is rather paid in cash. His base salary is once again right around the anticipated veteran minimum in 2027 as well, allocating another $13.2 million filed as a signing bonus, $3.68 million buried in an option bonus, and up to $775,000 in per-game and workout bonuses. This will give the Browns a huge boost next year as they deal with the Deshaun Watson dead cap.
So, the two years left on his deal from there, in 2028 and 2029, include big base salaries. He is due $27.8 million in base salary, and about another $13 million in terms of bonus money on his cap hit. However, if Ward is still performing at a high level at that point, when he will be 31 years old, the Browns could once again restructure that base pay into bonus money again.
#bonus
Now, the full details of that contract have been released, thanks to Over the Cap.
According to Over the Cap, Ward's new contract only gives him a slight ***** p in his cap number in 2026, backloading the deal. His base pay, however, is the veteran minimum, giving the Browns a massive ***** p in functional cap ***** e to work with this season or carry over into 2027. The Browns now sit with right around $28 million in cap ***** e after extending Ward and lowering his base salary.
They were able to do this by giving Ward a massive $17.2 million signing bonus, a figure that does not count against the cap, but is rather paid in cash. His base salary is once again right around the anticipated veteran minimum in 2027 as well, allocating another $13.2 million filed as a signing bonus, $3.68 million buried in an option bonus, and up to $775,000 in per-game and workout bonuses. This will give the Browns a huge boost next year as they deal with the Deshaun Watson dead cap.
So, the two years left on his deal from there, in 2028 and 2029, include big base salaries. He is due $27.8 million in base salary, and about another $13 million in terms of bonus money on his cap hit. However, if Ward is still performing at a high level at that point, when he will be 31 years old, the Browns could once again restructure that base pay into bonus money again.
#bonus
3 days ago
The Carolina Panthers took the field in front of a stadium full of fans for the first time this season on Friday night.
It was their first open practice of training camp, and fans got a peek at what's in store this year.
Players got in reps while 6-year-old Asher Harvey ran in a walk-off touchdown. Ashe, who is battling through congenital heart disease, signed a one-day contract through Make-A-Wish.
"What a crowd. It was amazing. Came out early, were out there the whole time," Head Coach Dave Canales said about Friday's crowd.
"Pack the bank, that's our motto. Continue to win. Continue to build up this culture," wide receiver Jalen ***** er added.
#first #year
It was their first open practice of training camp, and fans got a peek at what's in store this year.
Players got in reps while 6-year-old Asher Harvey ran in a walk-off touchdown. Ashe, who is battling through congenital heart disease, signed a one-day contract through Make-A-Wish.
"What a crowd. It was amazing. Came out early, were out there the whole time," Head Coach Dave Canales said about Friday's crowd.
"Pack the bank, that's our motto. Continue to win. Continue to build up this culture," wide receiver Jalen ***** er added.
#first #year
4 days ago
Tampa Bay's star nose tackle wants out. Jim Leonhard's front is missing exactly what he brings. Brandon Beane's cap situation is a hurdle.
The Buffalo Bills changed defensive coordinators, changed base fronts and changed the language in the meeting room this offseason. What they didn't change was the personnel in the middle of the defensive line — and that's the one place a 3-4 hybrid needs to work.
Enter Vita Vea. Tampa Bay's nose tackle cut off contract negotiations and requested a trade this week, and NFL.com put Buffalo at the top of his list of landing spots.
"The Bills would have to do some cap gymnastics to make it work, but from a scheme and need fit, he'd be the perfect solution in the middle of the defense," NFL.com wrote. "The Bills struggled up the gut last year, particularly when Ed Oliver was out. Vea would plug that hole. Putting the veteran between Oliver and promising second-year defensive tackle Deone Walker would make Jim Leonhard's defense sing."
Buffalo moved off Sean McDermott's 4-3 base into Leonhard's 3-4 without acquiring the one archetype the front requires: a true nose tackle who eats double teams so the linebackers can run free. Oliver is a penetrator, not an anchor. Walker is a projection, not a certainty.
#bills #changed #tampa #front
The Buffalo Bills changed defensive coordinators, changed base fronts and changed the language in the meeting room this offseason. What they didn't change was the personnel in the middle of the defensive line — and that's the one place a 3-4 hybrid needs to work.
Enter Vita Vea. Tampa Bay's nose tackle cut off contract negotiations and requested a trade this week, and NFL.com put Buffalo at the top of his list of landing spots.
"The Bills would have to do some cap gymnastics to make it work, but from a scheme and need fit, he'd be the perfect solution in the middle of the defense," NFL.com wrote. "The Bills struggled up the gut last year, particularly when Ed Oliver was out. Vea would plug that hole. Putting the veteran between Oliver and promising second-year defensive tackle Deone Walker would make Jim Leonhard's defense sing."
Buffalo moved off Sean McDermott's 4-3 base into Leonhard's 3-4 without acquiring the one archetype the front requires: a true nose tackle who eats double teams so the linebackers can run free. Oliver is a penetrator, not an anchor. Walker is a projection, not a certainty.
#bills #changed #tampa #front
5 days ago
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - Bryan Baker of the Tampa Bay Rays pitches against the Cleveland Guardians during the ninth inning at Tropicana Field on July 26, 2026 in St. Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images)
In the aftermath of a 3-0 win over the Rangers on Wednesday evening, Ryan Vilade said he did not want to face Bryan Baker. The Rays' infielder/outfielder shares a clubhouse with the righthanded closer, so stepping into the batter's box against Baker is not a concern. For Rays' opponents, facing Baker has been a nightmare in 2026.
"To see 'Big Bake' running in from the bullpen with the lights (flashing on and off) and (music) playing, it gets everyone fired up," said Vilade, whose exceptional work (9 HR, 35 RBI, .804 OPS) in a part-time role has often aided the Rays in getting to their closer. "I'm glad he's on our team and whenever we get to the ninth with him on the ***** p, we feel pretty good."
For good reason. The 6-foot-6 Baker nailed down his 30th save of the season Thursday afternoon in the series finale with Texas to tie with Cleveland's Cade Smith for the MLB lead. The 31-year-old heads into a weekend series versus the visiting White Sox having converted 19 straight save opportunities, a stretch that began May 17. During that span, which totals 24 appearances, Baker has allowed one run. That was a solo homer to Kansas City's Josh Rojas on June 24, an outing in which Baker shrugged it off to record his 20th save.
"I have been feeding off the catchers and going for what they see and what they've kind of seen the whole game and let the defenders work behind me," said Baker, when asked about the run he is on. "It's been a lot more (pitching to) contact lately, which as long as there's zeros are on board, I'm good."
#rays #ninth #work
In the aftermath of a 3-0 win over the Rangers on Wednesday evening, Ryan Vilade said he did not want to face Bryan Baker. The Rays' infielder/outfielder shares a clubhouse with the righthanded closer, so stepping into the batter's box against Baker is not a concern. For Rays' opponents, facing Baker has been a nightmare in 2026.
"To see 'Big Bake' running in from the bullpen with the lights (flashing on and off) and (music) playing, it gets everyone fired up," said Vilade, whose exceptional work (9 HR, 35 RBI, .804 OPS) in a part-time role has often aided the Rays in getting to their closer. "I'm glad he's on our team and whenever we get to the ninth with him on the ***** p, we feel pretty good."
For good reason. The 6-foot-6 Baker nailed down his 30th save of the season Thursday afternoon in the series finale with Texas to tie with Cleveland's Cade Smith for the MLB lead. The 31-year-old heads into a weekend series versus the visiting White Sox having converted 19 straight save opportunities, a stretch that began May 17. During that span, which totals 24 appearances, Baker has allowed one run. That was a solo homer to Kansas City's Josh Rojas on June 24, an outing in which Baker shrugged it off to record his 20th save.
"I have been feeding off the catchers and going for what they see and what they've kind of seen the whole game and let the defenders work behind me," said Baker, when asked about the run he is on. "It's been a lot more (pitching to) contact lately, which as long as there's zeros are on board, I'm good."
#rays #ninth #work
5 days ago
Napoli are zeroing in on Benoit Badiashile to complete their defense, which won't have Alessandro Buongiorno for a few months because of a knee injury, while Sam Beukema is dealing with a tricky Achilles issue, Corriere dello Sport informs.
The center-back opened the door to the destination. His personal terms won't be an obstacle. On the other hand, the Partenopei aren't close to concurring to a deal with Chelsea, as they are angling for a simple loan.
Napoli would be able to evaluate Badiashile for a season that way, as he has dealt with a number of physical problems in recent years. He made just 16 appearances in 2025/2026, for a total of just over 1000 minutes. The Blues invested €40M for him in 2023. They don't seem too keen on a temporary formula at the moment.
The Azzurri have also expressed interest in Jean-Clair Todibo, but he's not too high on their shortlist. Olympique Marseille are targeting him with more conviction. Federico Gatti remains a viable fallback. Instead, a proper investment would be needed to sign Tiago Gabriel from Lecce. He has a €30M price tag, while the Serie A runner-ups value him a lot less. He'd be useful for the lists, though, given his young age. Juan Jesus' return has also been pondered. He's still without a team after his contract ran out.
If they are concerned about Beukema's availability, they'll need a lot more than another injury-prone center-back to be serene for the entire season. It's time for them to seriously contemplate a splash at the position, without worrying about a potential future logjam.
#napoli #badiashile #won 't #season
The center-back opened the door to the destination. His personal terms won't be an obstacle. On the other hand, the Partenopei aren't close to concurring to a deal with Chelsea, as they are angling for a simple loan.
Napoli would be able to evaluate Badiashile for a season that way, as he has dealt with a number of physical problems in recent years. He made just 16 appearances in 2025/2026, for a total of just over 1000 minutes. The Blues invested €40M for him in 2023. They don't seem too keen on a temporary formula at the moment.
The Azzurri have also expressed interest in Jean-Clair Todibo, but he's not too high on their shortlist. Olympique Marseille are targeting him with more conviction. Federico Gatti remains a viable fallback. Instead, a proper investment would be needed to sign Tiago Gabriel from Lecce. He has a €30M price tag, while the Serie A runner-ups value him a lot less. He'd be useful for the lists, though, given his young age. Juan Jesus' return has also been pondered. He's still without a team after his contract ran out.
If they are concerned about Beukema's availability, they'll need a lot more than another injury-prone center-back to be serene for the entire season. It's time for them to seriously contemplate a splash at the position, without worrying about a potential future logjam.
#napoli #badiashile #won 't #season
6 days ago
The Twin Cities injected some excitement into the late season last week, and there was good news for former Bulldogs to boot. First, Tour rookie (I mean like 24 days since turning pro) Jackson Koivun won the 3M Open in his 3rd start as a professional and 7th time playing a Tour event (he played several as an amateur and based on his NCAA Championship). He beat everyone not named Scottie Scheffler by 5 shots, and held off the world #1 in the process. His incredible collegiate career at Auburn was not a fluke, unlike their academic credentials.
For the boys in red & black: Keith Mitchell finished in a tie for 44th, so his position in the FedEx Cup points did not change. Chris Kirk got to 12 under par, and the T31 finish ***** ped him up 3 spots to 143rd in the FedEx. But he'll need a VERY high finish the next two weeks to get into the post-season. David Thompson got a much-needed top 10 (T7) and that moved him up to 93rd position – still outside the top 70 but do now he has an outside chance to advance.
And Brian Harman played the final day alongside Scottie Scheffler and for the most part kept up with him. Harman shot a Sunday 65 and got a T3 – and those points ***** ped him from the dangerous 74th spot to a more comfortable 62nd spot. So let's see what's on tap this week.
Tournament: Rocket Classic, July 30-August 2, 2026.
Course: Detroit Golf Club, par 70, 7,328 yards.
#tour
For the boys in red & black: Keith Mitchell finished in a tie for 44th, so his position in the FedEx Cup points did not change. Chris Kirk got to 12 under par, and the T31 finish ***** ped him up 3 spots to 143rd in the FedEx. But he'll need a VERY high finish the next two weeks to get into the post-season. David Thompson got a much-needed top 10 (T7) and that moved him up to 93rd position – still outside the top 70 but do now he has an outside chance to advance.
And Brian Harman played the final day alongside Scottie Scheffler and for the most part kept up with him. Harman shot a Sunday 65 and got a T3 – and those points ***** ped him from the dangerous 74th spot to a more comfortable 62nd spot. So let's see what's on tap this week.
Tournament: Rocket Classic, July 30-August 2, 2026.
Course: Detroit Golf Club, par 70, 7,328 yards.
#tour
7 days ago
PHILADELPHIA (AP) — The Philadelphia Eagles are set to make two-time Pro Bowl selection Jalen Carter the highest-paid defensive tackle in NFL history, a person with knowledge of the deal told The **** ociated Press on Tuesday.
The Eagles and Carter announced that they agreed to terms on a four-year extension through the 2031 season. The person, speaking to the AP on condition of anonymity because financial terms hadn't been announced, said the contract includes $106 million guaranteed.
The Eagles already had picked up the fifth-year option for the 2027 season for Carter, the ninth selection in the 2023 draft. His extension is one less distraction for the Eagles as they open training camp this week.
Carter was runner-up for the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year award in 2023 to Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson. He has 13 1/2 sacks in 43 career games — he missed three games last season with injuries — and was a key contributor when the Eagles won the Super Bowl for the 2024 season.
The 25-year-old Carter won two national championships in college at Georgia, where he was involved in a crash that killed a teammate and a recruiting staffer. He was given probation and a fine.
#carter #person
The Eagles and Carter announced that they agreed to terms on a four-year extension through the 2031 season. The person, speaking to the AP on condition of anonymity because financial terms hadn't been announced, said the contract includes $106 million guaranteed.
The Eagles already had picked up the fifth-year option for the 2027 season for Carter, the ninth selection in the 2023 draft. His extension is one less distraction for the Eagles as they open training camp this week.
Carter was runner-up for the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year award in 2023 to Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson. He has 13 1/2 sacks in 43 career games — he missed three games last season with injuries — and was a key contributor when the Eagles won the Super Bowl for the 2024 season.
The 25-year-old Carter won two national championships in college at Georgia, where he was involved in a crash that killed a teammate and a recruiting staffer. He was given probation and a fine.
#carter #person
7 days ago
The LeBron James sweepstakes unfolding while Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey" debuted in movie theaters is amusing and worthy of a chuckle.
It took James 25 days to choose the Philadelphia 76ers as his landing spot in NBA free agency, yet, with the fast and furious release of podcasts and the madness of social media, those three-plus weeks felt closer to the 20 years Odysseus spent fighting in the Trojan War and making his way back to Ithaca.
One key difference between James and Odysseus, though, is the heroic graybeard who hails from Akron is not returning home.
So, why did the 41-year-old James decline a third tour with his hometown Cavaliers?
The 76ers, Cavs, Miami Heat and Golden State Warriors were the finalists in the James derby, agent Rich Paul confirmed July 24 on the "Game Over" podcast he co-hosts with Max Kellerman.
#christopher
It took James 25 days to choose the Philadelphia 76ers as his landing spot in NBA free agency, yet, with the fast and furious release of podcasts and the madness of social media, those three-plus weeks felt closer to the 20 years Odysseus spent fighting in the Trojan War and making his way back to Ithaca.
One key difference between James and Odysseus, though, is the heroic graybeard who hails from Akron is not returning home.
So, why did the 41-year-old James decline a third tour with his hometown Cavaliers?
The 76ers, Cavs, Miami Heat and Golden State Warriors were the finalists in the James derby, agent Rich Paul confirmed July 24 on the "Game Over" podcast he co-hosts with Max Kellerman.
#christopher
11 days ago
The Pittsburgh Pirates (53-50) return home on Friday night with a new bullpen arm as they open a three-game series with the Chicago Cubs (57-45) at PNC Park in Pittsburgh.
Jul 20, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates catcher Henry Davis (32) singles during the fourth inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Date: Friday, July 24, 2026
Time: 6:30 PM ET
Channel: Marquee Sports Network, SportsNet Pittsburgh
#Chicago #bronx #davis
Jul 20, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates catcher Henry Davis (32) singles during the fourth inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Date: Friday, July 24, 2026
Time: 6:30 PM ET
Channel: Marquee Sports Network, SportsNet Pittsburgh
#Chicago #bronx #davis
11 days ago
As Jurgen Klopp commences his first press conference as new coach of the German national team, speculation has already emerged about what he plans to change. One major topic in the last World Cup was the role of Joshua Kimmich and whether he should play as right-back or in midfield. Klopp, it seems, is determined to find a solution to that issue.
According to a report by Florian Plettenberg of Sky (via iMiaSanMia), the former Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool FC manager no longer wants Kimmich to be the starting right-back. To that end, he is going to monitor youth national teams in search of the right player who fits the profile of a replacement. Anyone who is familiar with Klopp teams will know how much emphasis he places on the fullback positions.
This would mean that, for the first time since his tournament debut in Euro 2016, Joshua Kimmich is going to be released from the shackles of right-back and allowed to play more centrally. This could be a major boon to the German national team, provided that:
The prospective right-back replacement is actually any good.
Joshua Kimmich is retained as a midfielder in the new setup.
#national
According to a report by Florian Plettenberg of Sky (via iMiaSanMia), the former Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool FC manager no longer wants Kimmich to be the starting right-back. To that end, he is going to monitor youth national teams in search of the right player who fits the profile of a replacement. Anyone who is familiar with Klopp teams will know how much emphasis he places on the fullback positions.
This would mean that, for the first time since his tournament debut in Euro 2016, Joshua Kimmich is going to be released from the shackles of right-back and allowed to play more centrally. This could be a major boon to the German national team, provided that:
The prospective right-back replacement is actually any good.
Joshua Kimmich is retained as a midfielder in the new setup.
#national
12 days ago
The Florida men's basketball team will welcome the Jacksonville Dolphins to the O'Dome on Nov. 5 for their home opener for the 2026-27 season.
The Gators last hosted Jacksonville on Nov. 7, 2024, earning an 81-60 victory over the Dolphins. Florida leads the all-time series 33-5 against Jacksonville.
UF's non-conference schedule is beginning to take shape, with the matchup against Jacksonville becoming the newest addition to the Gators' schedule. Florida is highly favored to enter the season as the No. 1 team in the country in preseason polls after returning key contributors from last season.
Florida will tip off its season in a neutral-site game on Nov. 2 against the Miami Hurricanes at Benchmark International Arena — the same venue where the Gators were upset in the second round of the NCAA Tournament by No. 9 seed Iowa.
More non-conference matchups are expected to be announced in the coming weeks as the season approaches.
#jacksonville #season #gators #conference
The Gators last hosted Jacksonville on Nov. 7, 2024, earning an 81-60 victory over the Dolphins. Florida leads the all-time series 33-5 against Jacksonville.
UF's non-conference schedule is beginning to take shape, with the matchup against Jacksonville becoming the newest addition to the Gators' schedule. Florida is highly favored to enter the season as the No. 1 team in the country in preseason polls after returning key contributors from last season.
Florida will tip off its season in a neutral-site game on Nov. 2 against the Miami Hurricanes at Benchmark International Arena — the same venue where the Gators were upset in the second round of the NCAA Tournament by No. 9 seed Iowa.
More non-conference matchups are expected to be announced in the coming weeks as the season approaches.
#jacksonville #season #gators #conference
12 days ago
Winger Karim Adeyemi has officially left Borussia Dortmund and joined Spanish champions Barcelona, with the 24-year-old signing a contract until 2031.
"Adeyemi brings an exciting and versatile attacking profile to the Barça squad," the Catalans said in a club statement on Thursday.
"Throughout his career, he has shown his ability to play on either wing as well as through the middle as a centre-forward, combining blistering pace with a powerful left foot."
Dortmund had allowed him to hold talks rather than start pre-season with the Bundesliga side.
According to reports, Dortmund and Barcelona have agreed a fee of €22 million ($25 million) plus €7 million in bonuses. Dortmund had tried in vain for weeks to extend his contract.
#winger
"Adeyemi brings an exciting and versatile attacking profile to the Barça squad," the Catalans said in a club statement on Thursday.
"Throughout his career, he has shown his ability to play on either wing as well as through the middle as a centre-forward, combining blistering pace with a powerful left foot."
Dortmund had allowed him to hold talks rather than start pre-season with the Bundesliga side.
According to reports, Dortmund and Barcelona have agreed a fee of €22 million ($25 million) plus €7 million in bonuses. Dortmund had tried in vain for weeks to extend his contract.
#winger
13 days ago
Recently, future Pro Football Hall of Fame pass-rusher Von Miller mentioned signing with the Las Vegas Raiders as a potential reality while discussing potential fits for him on a podcast that included his friend, Raiders' pass-rush star Maxx Crosby.
Miller mentioned multiple teams and the sense of his tone was that he is open to playing for several franchises. Yet, he made it clear he would be interested in signing with las Vegas and Crosby was on board.
Would you be interested in Miller signing with the Raiders?
Miller is 37 and likely doesn't have much time remaining in his career. Miller, entering his 16th NFL season, did have nine sacks last season for the Washington Commanders, his highest sack total since 2021.
The Raiders don't have a pressing need at pass-rusher and Miller would be a rotational player. Do you think it's worth it (on what should be a reasonable one-year contract) or would you rather give snaps to younger players on a rebuilding team?
#crosby #rusher #mentioned #Potential
Miller mentioned multiple teams and the sense of his tone was that he is open to playing for several franchises. Yet, he made it clear he would be interested in signing with las Vegas and Crosby was on board.
Would you be interested in Miller signing with the Raiders?
Miller is 37 and likely doesn't have much time remaining in his career. Miller, entering his 16th NFL season, did have nine sacks last season for the Washington Commanders, his highest sack total since 2021.
The Raiders don't have a pressing need at pass-rusher and Miller would be a rotational player. Do you think it's worth it (on what should be a reasonable one-year contract) or would you rather give snaps to younger players on a rebuilding team?
#crosby #rusher #mentioned #Potential
20 days ago
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached its final week, and Spain have now become the first team to book their place in the final.
La Roja beat France 2-0 in Arlington, producing one of the most controlled performances of the knockout stages.
Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute before Pedro Porro added the second in the 58th minute after a clever Dani Olmo pass.
France had enough attacking firepower to make the game interesting, but not enough precision to truly hurt Spain.
From a Real Madrid perspective, it was a night of mixed emotions.
La Roja beat France 2-0 in Arlington, producing one of the most controlled performances of the knockout stages.
Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute before Pedro Porro added the second in the 58th minute after a clever Dani Olmo pass.
France had enough attacking firepower to make the game interesting, but not enough precision to truly hurt Spain.
From a Real Madrid perspective, it was a night of mixed emotions.
21 days ago
Cross-over time!
Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Featherweight-turned Bantamweight contender Bryce Mitchell is putting down the gloves for the time being and stepping into the UFC BJJ bowl.
“Thug Nasty” will collide with UFC BJJ Bantamweight champion Mikey Musumeci at UFC BJJ 11, which goes down Thurs., Sept. 24, 2026, inside Meta Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The grappling match will take place at Featherweight, meaning Musumeci’s Bantamweight ***** le will not be on the line.
In the co-main event, UFC BJJ Light Heavyweight champion Mason Fowler will defend his ***** le against Nick Rodriguez.
Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Featherweight-turned Bantamweight contender Bryce Mitchell is putting down the gloves for the time being and stepping into the UFC BJJ bowl.
“Thug Nasty” will collide with UFC BJJ Bantamweight champion Mikey Musumeci at UFC BJJ 11, which goes down Thurs., Sept. 24, 2026, inside Meta Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The grappling match will take place at Featherweight, meaning Musumeci’s Bantamweight ***** le will not be on the line.
In the co-main event, UFC BJJ Light Heavyweight champion Mason Fowler will defend his ***** le against Nick Rodriguez.
21 days ago
Manchester United have signed goalkeeper Karl Darlow on a two-year contract, with the option to extend by a further season.
The move is likely to lead to the Old Trafford exit of Turkey international Altay Bayindir, who came close to joining Besiktas in January.
Darlow's contract at Leeds expired this summer and although he was offered a new deal, he has opted to make the switch across the Pennines. Leeds did not reference rivals Manchester United in their own statement.
"Leeds United can confirm Karl Darlow has left the club upon the expiration of his contract to pursue an opportunity elsewhere," Leeds said in a statement.
"Despite the offer of a new deal to remain in West Yorkshire, the goalkeeper wished to explore a different challenge and leaves the Whites with the best wishes of everyone at Elland Road."
The move is likely to lead to the Old Trafford exit of Turkey international Altay Bayindir, who came close to joining Besiktas in January.
Darlow's contract at Leeds expired this summer and although he was offered a new deal, he has opted to make the switch across the Pennines. Leeds did not reference rivals Manchester United in their own statement.
"Leeds United can confirm Karl Darlow has left the club upon the expiration of his contract to pursue an opportunity elsewhere," Leeds said in a statement.
"Despite the offer of a new deal to remain in West Yorkshire, the goalkeeper wished to explore a different challenge and leaves the Whites with the best wishes of everyone at Elland Road."
22 days ago
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Pirates fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
This week's Pittsburgh Pirates question was who was the biggest All star game snub between Brandon Lowe and Bryan Reynolds. Paul Skenes was originally the only Pirate to make the all star game then Braxton Ashcraft got named as a replacement to participate in the mid summer classic. Here is who you said is the biggest All star game snub.
64% of Pirates fans believe Brandon Lowe is the bigger All star game snub over Bryan Reynolds. Lowe leads the team in home runs with 21, he also leads all second basemen with homers as well. The 32 year old also has 64 RBIs which is tied for 10th in the league. Those stats show that Lowe is a big snub for the game and it also shows he has been on elf the best second basemen this season.
Thank you for voting and check out https://sportsbook.fanduel... for new updated betting odds on the Pittsburgh Pirates.
This week's Pittsburgh Pirates question was who was the biggest All star game snub between Brandon Lowe and Bryan Reynolds. Paul Skenes was originally the only Pirate to make the all star game then Braxton Ashcraft got named as a replacement to participate in the mid summer classic. Here is who you said is the biggest All star game snub.
64% of Pirates fans believe Brandon Lowe is the bigger All star game snub over Bryan Reynolds. Lowe leads the team in home runs with 21, he also leads all second basemen with homers as well. The 32 year old also has 64 RBIs which is tied for 10th in the league. Those stats show that Lowe is a big snub for the game and it also shows he has been on elf the best second basemen this season.
Thank you for voting and check out https://sportsbook.fanduel... for new updated betting odds on the Pittsburgh Pirates.
22 days ago
Former FIFA governance committee chairman Mark Pieth has called on member ***** ociations, particularly those in Europe, to stand up to the president of the ruling body, Gianni Infantino.
In an interview with German paper Tagesspiegel on Monday, Swiss criminal law expert Pieth outlined ways to oust Infantino, who has faced criticism especially in Europe.
"FIFA is an institutional ***** ociation; every member ***** ociation can vote, remove someone from office, or even take someone to court. Every FIFA member has that option," Pieth said.
The 73-year-old said that the lack of such efforts by pointing to what he called the Infantino system.
He said that the Ethics Committee, for example, exists only formally, and that "there is no independence within FIFA — and accordingly, no oversight," Pieth said.
In an interview with German paper Tagesspiegel on Monday, Swiss criminal law expert Pieth outlined ways to oust Infantino, who has faced criticism especially in Europe.
"FIFA is an institutional ***** ociation; every member ***** ociation can vote, remove someone from office, or even take someone to court. Every FIFA member has that option," Pieth said.
The 73-year-old said that the lack of such efforts by pointing to what he called the Infantino system.
He said that the Ethics Committee, for example, exists only formally, and that "there is no independence within FIFA — and accordingly, no oversight," Pieth said.
22 days ago
Life came fast for the Las Vegas Aces after recording the biggest victory in franchise history on Saturday, and hit twice as hard.
On Sunday, the Aces could not build off of the momentum from their previous win, coming back down to Earth with a thud by way of a 109-75 stomping at the hands of the Indiana Fever.
"I thought we were lousy from the jump," admitted Aces head coach Becky Hammon. "A lot of it is effort, and maybe we just didn't have the juice today. The juice necessary to defend a team like that because, out of the gate, it was pretty ugly."
Triple whammy
After a game against Phoenix where the Aces looked like they could not miss from deep, they returned to find the well had run dry.
On Sunday, the Aces could not build off of the momentum from their previous win, coming back down to Earth with a thud by way of a 109-75 stomping at the hands of the Indiana Fever.
"I thought we were lousy from the jump," admitted Aces head coach Becky Hammon. "A lot of it is effort, and maybe we just didn't have the juice today. The juice necessary to defend a team like that because, out of the gate, it was pretty ugly."
Triple whammy
After a game against Phoenix where the Aces looked like they could not miss from deep, they returned to find the well had run dry.
23 days ago
Clemson junior right-handed pitcher Ariston Veasey was selected by the Chicago Cubs in the 11th round of the 2026 MLB Draft, going 337th overall. Clemson baseball announced the pick Sunday, congratulating Veasey as one of multiple Tigers selected in this year's draft.
He missed the beginning of the season due to an off-field incident but after that suspension was done and dusted he was off to the races with the Tigers.
Veasey's lone season at Clemson gave the Tigers one of their best bullpen arms. In 2026, he posted a 3.29 ERA across 20 relief appearances, striking out 37 batters in 25.1 innings while holding opponents to a .143 batting average. He led Clemson in appearances, relief appearances, and opponent batting average, while allowing only three extra-base hits all season.
He was especially sharp in ACC play, finishing with a 2.00 ERA and 19 strikeouts over 18 innings in conference games. His best work often came in tight spots, including a wild moment at Charlotte when he entered with the bases loaded and no outs in the eighth inning and struck out all three batters he faced. He will be a very intriguing arm for the Chicago Cubs to develop in the MLB.
Contact us Clemson_Wire on X, and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Clemson Tigers news and notes, plus opinions.
He missed the beginning of the season due to an off-field incident but after that suspension was done and dusted he was off to the races with the Tigers.
Veasey's lone season at Clemson gave the Tigers one of their best bullpen arms. In 2026, he posted a 3.29 ERA across 20 relief appearances, striking out 37 batters in 25.1 innings while holding opponents to a .143 batting average. He led Clemson in appearances, relief appearances, and opponent batting average, while allowing only three extra-base hits all season.
He was especially sharp in ACC play, finishing with a 2.00 ERA and 19 strikeouts over 18 innings in conference games. His best work often came in tight spots, including a wild moment at Charlotte when he entered with the bases loaded and no outs in the eighth inning and struck out all three batters he faced. He will be a very intriguing arm for the Chicago Cubs to develop in the MLB.
Contact us Clemson_Wire on X, and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Clemson Tigers news and notes, plus opinions.
23 days ago
Venezia are on the verge of securing Sevilla striker Akor Adams in a deal worth €16m plus add-ons, as director Filippo Antonelli confirms 'talks are at a very advanced stage.'
The Nigeria international is 26 years old and made the move from Montpellier to Sevilla for €5.5m in January 2025.
In the last season, he scored 10 goals with three ****** ists in 32 LaLiga appearances for Sevilla.
LEIRIA, PORTUGAL – JUNE 10: Akor Adams of Nigeria during the International Friendly match between Portugal and Nigeria at Estadio Dr Magalhaes Pessoa on June 10, 2026 in Leiria, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)
According to multiple sources including Sky Sport Italia, Sportitalia and Tuttomercatoweb, the agreement is very close to completion.
The Nigeria international is 26 years old and made the move from Montpellier to Sevilla for €5.5m in January 2025.
In the last season, he scored 10 goals with three ****** ists in 32 LaLiga appearances for Sevilla.
LEIRIA, PORTUGAL – JUNE 10: Akor Adams of Nigeria during the International Friendly match between Portugal and Nigeria at Estadio Dr Magalhaes Pessoa on June 10, 2026 in Leiria, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)
According to multiple sources including Sky Sport Italia, Sportitalia and Tuttomercatoweb, the agreement is very close to completion.
24 days ago
The Milwaukee Bucks are reportedly signing veteran guard Gary Trent Jr. to a four-year, $64 million deal, per ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Trent Jr. had a player option on his previous two-year deal with the Bucks, but opted to decline it, becoming a free agent. He now returns to Milwaukee, where he has spent the last two seasons.
Charania reported that Trent Jr. had interest from several teams, and his camp was working through potential sign-and-trade deals with other teams before he opted to return to the Bucks.
The ESPN **** yst also pointed out that Milwaukee owned his bird rights because he had signed back-to-back deals with the team. Trent Jr. signed a league-minimum deal with Milwaukee in the summer of 2024, then signed a two-year, $7.5 million deal ahead of last season that included a player option for next year.
The veteran guard played in 65 games for Milwaukee last season, starting 21 of them. He averaged 8.1 points, 1.0 rebounds, 1.2 **** ists and 21.2 minutes per game. Trent Jr. shot 41% last season, including 39% from beyond the arc.
Trent Jr. had a player option on his previous two-year deal with the Bucks, but opted to decline it, becoming a free agent. He now returns to Milwaukee, where he has spent the last two seasons.
Charania reported that Trent Jr. had interest from several teams, and his camp was working through potential sign-and-trade deals with other teams before he opted to return to the Bucks.
The ESPN **** yst also pointed out that Milwaukee owned his bird rights because he had signed back-to-back deals with the team. Trent Jr. signed a league-minimum deal with Milwaukee in the summer of 2024, then signed a two-year, $7.5 million deal ahead of last season that included a player option for next year.
The veteran guard played in 65 games for Milwaukee last season, starting 21 of them. He averaged 8.1 points, 1.0 rebounds, 1.2 **** ists and 21.2 minutes per game. Trent Jr. shot 41% last season, including 39% from beyond the arc.
24 days ago
On the eve of the 2026 MLB Draft, Jay Johnson and company got a massive surprise when Aledo, Texas outfielder/left-handed pitcher Lucas Nawrocki announced Friday night on his Instagram that he would be withdrawing from the draft and enrolling at LSU.
Nawrocki really made a name for himself at the MLB Draft Combine and Over the Slot's Joe Doyle projected Nawrocki as a prospect who could command $2 million from an MLB team. Nawrocki can legitimately play both ways, with a fastball that comfortably sits 95 MPH from the left side, a slider that some scouts say is the best among high schoolers, and he showed off some pretty impressive pop in his bat.
The knock on Nawrocki is his physicality. Listed at 5'11", scouts feel like he'll never project to a starter at the Major League level, though he could certainly develop into a high-leverage lefty reliever, and that likely factored into getting Nawrocki to campus.
Nawrocki will get the chance to play both ways at LSU, but his immediate future is in the bullpen. LSU's lineup is more or less set, but the Tigers desperately need some more left-handed pitching coming out of the bullpen. The only lefty relievers LSU has returning are Danny Lachenmayer, Cooper Williams, and Ethan Plogg, and that is Nawrocki's ticket to some immediate playing time in 2027.
Nawrocki is the third marquee recruit from Jay Johnson's class to bypass the draft and stick with their LSU commitment, joining outfielder Nathaneal Davis and Braxton Beaty, another lefty pitcher.
Nawrocki really made a name for himself at the MLB Draft Combine and Over the Slot's Joe Doyle projected Nawrocki as a prospect who could command $2 million from an MLB team. Nawrocki can legitimately play both ways, with a fastball that comfortably sits 95 MPH from the left side, a slider that some scouts say is the best among high schoolers, and he showed off some pretty impressive pop in his bat.
The knock on Nawrocki is his physicality. Listed at 5'11", scouts feel like he'll never project to a starter at the Major League level, though he could certainly develop into a high-leverage lefty reliever, and that likely factored into getting Nawrocki to campus.
Nawrocki will get the chance to play both ways at LSU, but his immediate future is in the bullpen. LSU's lineup is more or less set, but the Tigers desperately need some more left-handed pitching coming out of the bullpen. The only lefty relievers LSU has returning are Danny Lachenmayer, Cooper Williams, and Ethan Plogg, and that is Nawrocki's ticket to some immediate playing time in 2027.
Nawrocki is the third marquee recruit from Jay Johnson's class to bypass the draft and stick with their LSU commitment, joining outfielder Nathaneal Davis and Braxton Beaty, another lefty pitcher.
24 days ago
The second quarter-final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup took place last night, with Spain facing Belgium.
Both teams knew that a win would secure their place in the semi-finals, where France await, and La Roja came into this game as favourites.
Spain dominated most of the game in terms of possession, passes and chances created, but they were not always able to get the final shot away, at least effectively.
Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring for La Roja in the first half after Dani Olmo's shot was deflected into his path.
Belgium equalised through Charles de Ketelaere just before half-time, and Spain had to wait until after the 85th minute, once Mikel Merino came on, to get the winner.
Both teams knew that a win would secure their place in the semi-finals, where France await, and La Roja came into this game as favourites.
Spain dominated most of the game in terms of possession, passes and chances created, but they were not always able to get the final shot away, at least effectively.
Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring for La Roja in the first half after Dani Olmo's shot was deflected into his path.
Belgium equalised through Charles de Ketelaere just before half-time, and Spain had to wait until after the 85th minute, once Mikel Merino came on, to get the winner.
25 days ago
Arsenal's potentially modest summer transfer plans and Ethan Nwaneri's future has been the subject of several questions sent in via our 'Ask about ******* nal' form'.
Nwaneri is in an interesting position at ******* nal.
It is still easy to forget just how young he is as it feels like he has been around for a while now.
But he is still only 19 and has had one successful breakout season with ******* nal and also a senior loan to Marseille now.
However, he was sent on loan during the season that ******* nal won the ******* le and was not part of the group that got over the line.
Nwaneri is in an interesting position at ******* nal.
It is still easy to forget just how young he is as it feels like he has been around for a while now.
But he is still only 19 and has had one successful breakout season with ******* nal and also a senior loan to Marseille now.
However, he was sent on loan during the season that ******* nal won the ******* le and was not part of the group that got over the line.
