1 hr. ago
Browns' Jared Verse calls impressive rookie 'hooper' after beating Ravens appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Cleveland Browns defensive end Jared Verse had nothing but praise for linebacker Carson Schwesinger following Sunday's dramatic 13-10 victory over the Baltimore Ravens. The Browns had been monitoring Schwesinger's injury concerns entering the matchup.
Schwesinger delivered another impressive performance, recording a game-high 13 tackles and forcing a crucial fumble despite being playing through an ankle injury.
Speaking after the game, Verse highlighted his teammate's toughness and reliability. "He has an old-school linebacker mindset," Verse said. "He's a hooper. You can count on him for anything."
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#Browns #jared #Ravens #hooper
Cleveland Browns defensive end Jared Verse had nothing but praise for linebacker Carson Schwesinger following Sunday's dramatic 13-10 victory over the Baltimore Ravens. The Browns had been monitoring Schwesinger's injury concerns entering the matchup.
Schwesinger delivered another impressive performance, recording a game-high 13 tackles and forcing a crucial fumble despite being playing through an ankle injury.
Speaking after the game, Verse highlighted his teammate's toughness and reliability. "He has an old-school linebacker mindset," Verse said. "He's a hooper. You can count on him for anything."
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
#Browns #jared #Ravens #hooper
12 days ago
By Alun John, Harry Robertson and Sara Rossi
LONDON/MILAN, Oct 7 (Reuters) - Traders have turned more discerning following a bond market rout, dumping the debt of European countries they deem the riskiest and rushing to safe-haven Germany.
The moves highlight a new hierarchy in the ever-evolving rankings of European debt.
France, once a beneficiary of a flight to safety, has been hit by selling. Previously shunned Italy and Britain are less exposed but still fragile, while Dutch and Swiss debt have rallied alongside Germany.
"We've seen bond vigilantes come out in force," said Man Group Chief Market Strategist Kristina Hooper.
#germany #bond
LONDON/MILAN, Oct 7 (Reuters) - Traders have turned more discerning following a bond market rout, dumping the debt of European countries they deem the riskiest and rushing to safe-haven Germany.
The moves highlight a new hierarchy in the ever-evolving rankings of European debt.
France, once a beneficiary of a flight to safety, has been hit by selling. Previously shunned Italy and Britain are less exposed but still fragile, while Dutch and Swiss debt have rallied alongside Germany.
"We've seen bond vigilantes come out in force," said Man Group Chief Market Strategist Kristina Hooper.
#germany #bond
1 month ago
Bob Mackie, the nine-time Emmy-winning costume designer known as the "Sultan of Sequins" for the spectacular, over-the-top outfits he created for the likes of Cher, Diana Ross, Mitzi Gaynor and Carol Burnett, died Monday. He was 87.
His death was announced on his Instagram page: "It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Mr. Bob Mackie passed away today. He lived his 87 years to the fullest, fulfilling his dream of being a Fashion and Costume Designer, which is all he ever wanted to do. His genius and extraordinary designs will live on forever, continuing to bring beauty into this world."
More from The Hollywood Reporter
Jeremy Thomas, Producer of Oscar-Winning 'The Last Emperor,' Dies at 77
Bill Kerby, Screenwriter on 'The Rose,' 'The Last American Hero' and 'Hooper,' Dies at 88
#last #dies
His death was announced on his Instagram page: "It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Mr. Bob Mackie passed away today. He lived his 87 years to the fullest, fulfilling his dream of being a Fashion and Costume Designer, which is all he ever wanted to do. His genius and extraordinary designs will live on forever, continuing to bring beauty into this world."
More from The Hollywood Reporter
Jeremy Thomas, Producer of Oscar-Winning 'The Last Emperor,' Dies at 77
Bill Kerby, Screenwriter on 'The Rose,' 'The Last American Hero' and 'Hooper,' Dies at 88
#last #dies
1 month ago
It's the middle of September and Pat Kelsey and company are still active in the transfer portal.
LJ Wells, a 6'8 power forward who played the last four seasons at Northern Kentucky, has committed to play for Louisville in 2026-27. Wells is the namesake plaintiff in the ongoing Wells vs. NCAA case in Jefferson County Circuit Court that earned a fifth-year of eligibility for players like Wells, D'Angelo Hutchinson, Jabari Mack, and Missouri hooper Mark Mitchell.
Wells started all 33 games for the Norse last season, posting career-best averages of 15.0 points and 7.3 rebounds per game. He also earned All-Horizon Tournament Team honors after averaging 22.3 points, 8.7 rebounds and 2.7 ***** ists while helping NKU to the Horizon League semis, where they fell to eventual champion Wright State.
It feels weird to be adding players like this, especially when you can't be 100 percent sure if they're even going to be able to play this winter, but this is a nice depth add at a position where U of L could definitely use some additional depth.
Welcome aboard, LJ.
#last
LJ Wells, a 6'8 power forward who played the last four seasons at Northern Kentucky, has committed to play for Louisville in 2026-27. Wells is the namesake plaintiff in the ongoing Wells vs. NCAA case in Jefferson County Circuit Court that earned a fifth-year of eligibility for players like Wells, D'Angelo Hutchinson, Jabari Mack, and Missouri hooper Mark Mitchell.
Wells started all 33 games for the Norse last season, posting career-best averages of 15.0 points and 7.3 rebounds per game. He also earned All-Horizon Tournament Team honors after averaging 22.3 points, 8.7 rebounds and 2.7 ***** ists while helping NKU to the Horizon League semis, where they fell to eventual champion Wright State.
It feels weird to be adding players like this, especially when you can't be 100 percent sure if they're even going to be able to play this winter, but this is a nice depth add at a position where U of L could definitely use some additional depth.
Welcome aboard, LJ.
#last
2 months ago
Arizona women's basketball's 2027 class will have plenty of size. The Wildcats received a commitment from 6-foot-2 Canadian forward Ashley Vande Ven on Sunday. The four-star player joins 6-foot wing Brieana Brown and 6-foot-4 power forward Celsy Colombo in Becky Burke's next recruiting class.
Vande Ven is ranked No. 82 in the ESPN SC Next 100. She has a scouting grade of 92 from the service.
Vande Ven is also rated as a four-star recruit by Prospects Nation. While she isn't in their top 60 players, she is part of the site's Elite 150. She is not ranked or rated by 247sports or Rivals.
"Our Canadian hoopers from British Columbia have made the trip across the border to compete and train with EIE since the beginning," Prospects Nation managing editor Chris Hansen wrote. "This year the duo of Puneet Deol of Surrey, B.C., and Ashley Vande Ven of Langley, B.C., made arguments they can compete with anyone in the lower 48 and are on their respective PN Watch Lists as well."
Although Vande Ven is from British Columbia in the Western part of Canada, she will come to Tucson from Crestwood Prep, a sports-focused high school across the country in Toronto. Crestwood produced former UConn star and current WNBA player Aaliyah Edwards and current Duke All-American Toby Fournier.
#canadian #crestwood
Vande Ven is ranked No. 82 in the ESPN SC Next 100. She has a scouting grade of 92 from the service.
Vande Ven is also rated as a four-star recruit by Prospects Nation. While she isn't in their top 60 players, she is part of the site's Elite 150. She is not ranked or rated by 247sports or Rivals.
"Our Canadian hoopers from British Columbia have made the trip across the border to compete and train with EIE since the beginning," Prospects Nation managing editor Chris Hansen wrote. "This year the duo of Puneet Deol of Surrey, B.C., and Ashley Vande Ven of Langley, B.C., made arguments they can compete with anyone in the lower 48 and are on their respective PN Watch Lists as well."
Although Vande Ven is from British Columbia in the Western part of Canada, she will come to Tucson from Crestwood Prep, a sports-focused high school across the country in Toronto. Crestwood produced former UConn star and current WNBA player Aaliyah Edwards and current Duke All-American Toby Fournier.
#canadian #crestwood
2 months ago
JUJUY, Argentina (AP) — Australia took its scoring chances and showed steel in defense, leading end to end to beat Argentina 27-21 Saturday in the first of two rugby test matches.
Tries in the first 10 minutes to hooker Brandon Paenga-Amoso and flyhalf Carter Gordon gave Australia an early buffer which it protected against an adventurous but less clinical Argentina.
Australia clung to its final six point margin for the last 27 minutes of the match when tiredness induced by altitude in the mountainous venue saw some sloppiness and imprecision invade its game.
Its inability to retain possession, especially in the last 10 minutes, gave Argentina chances to ******* a win but the Australian defense rose to the occasion.
"Here at altitude the shoulders are sore, the lungs are sore," said backrower Tom Hooper who scored Australia's only second half try. "It was a hard test match and the whole 23 got us across the line."
#Argentina #gave #match
Tries in the first 10 minutes to hooker Brandon Paenga-Amoso and flyhalf Carter Gordon gave Australia an early buffer which it protected against an adventurous but less clinical Argentina.
Australia clung to its final six point margin for the last 27 minutes of the match when tiredness induced by altitude in the mountainous venue saw some sloppiness and imprecision invade its game.
Its inability to retain possession, especially in the last 10 minutes, gave Argentina chances to ******* a win but the Australian defense rose to the occasion.
"Here at altitude the shoulders are sore, the lungs are sore," said backrower Tom Hooper who scored Australia's only second half try. "It was a hard test match and the whole 23 got us across the line."
#Argentina #gave #match
2 months ago
Rafael dos Anjos is back.
Dos Anjos will return from a two-year-long layoff to face Alexander Hernandez at UFC 332 (Paramount+) on Oct. 3 at Delta Center in Salt Lake City. A person with knowledge of the situation confirmed the booking to MMA Junkie but asked to remain anonymous, as the promotion has yet to make an official announcement. ESPN Brasil was first to report the news.
Dos Anjos (32-17 MMA, 21-15 UFC), a former UFC lightweight champion, hasn't competed since injuring his knee in a TKO loss to Geoff Neal in October 2024 – his third setback in a row. The 41-year-old had to undergo three surgeries to repair a torn ACL and meniscus.
Hernandez (18-9 MMA, 10-8 UFC) is coming off a unanimous decision loss to Rafa Garcia at UFC Fight Night 274 in April. Prior to that, the 33-year-old was on a four-fight winning streak – including finishes of Chase Hooper and Diego Ferreira.
Deiveson Figueiredo vs. Payton Talbott
#anjos #hernandez #rafael
Dos Anjos will return from a two-year-long layoff to face Alexander Hernandez at UFC 332 (Paramount+) on Oct. 3 at Delta Center in Salt Lake City. A person with knowledge of the situation confirmed the booking to MMA Junkie but asked to remain anonymous, as the promotion has yet to make an official announcement. ESPN Brasil was first to report the news.
Dos Anjos (32-17 MMA, 21-15 UFC), a former UFC lightweight champion, hasn't competed since injuring his knee in a TKO loss to Geoff Neal in October 2024 – his third setback in a row. The 41-year-old had to undergo three surgeries to repair a torn ACL and meniscus.
Hernandez (18-9 MMA, 10-8 UFC) is coming off a unanimous decision loss to Rafa Garcia at UFC Fight Night 274 in April. Prior to that, the 33-year-old was on a four-fight winning streak – including finishes of Chase Hooper and Diego Ferreira.
Deiveson Figueiredo vs. Payton Talbott
#anjos #hernandez #rafael
2 months ago
Police in Australia have apologized after the family of an 18-year-old hiker missing in dense bushland for eight days was mistakenly informed that she had been found alive.
In fact, Lily Hooper's body was found and now an investigation is underway to determine how she went missing and how her family received the wrong news.
Hooper left Oakdale, New South Wales (NSW), on August 12 to go for a solo hike in the Nattai National Park, but was reported missing after she didn't return home that night, according to a statement from NSW Police.
A multi-agency search operation was launched and lasted until early Thursday, when the news was conveyed that she'd been found.
Her family, believing she was still alive, were seen celebrating at the search site. The state premier Chris Minns even announced her survival during a live broadcast of a senate committee hearing.
#missing
In fact, Lily Hooper's body was found and now an investigation is underway to determine how she went missing and how her family received the wrong news.
Hooper left Oakdale, New South Wales (NSW), on August 12 to go for a solo hike in the Nattai National Park, but was reported missing after she didn't return home that night, according to a statement from NSW Police.
A multi-agency search operation was launched and lasted until early Thursday, when the news was conveyed that she'd been found.
Her family, believing she was still alive, were seen celebrating at the search site. The state premier Chris Minns even announced her survival during a live broadcast of a senate committee hearing.
#missing
2 months ago
Megan LaMont has been hired as the SUNY Oneonta softball coach, the school announced Friday, Aug. 14.
"SUNY Oneonta Athletics is excited to announce the addition of Megan LaMont as our Head Softball Coach," Athletic Director Ryan Hooper said in a media release. "Megan has a wealth of experience and success that she brings with her. She has a deep passion for the sport and a commitment to developing student-athletes on and off the field. She also has a strong connection with the SUNYAC, having coached within the conference for several years. We're confident that Coach LaMont will be a tremendous **** et for our programs and an outstanding representative of our athletic department."
LaMont joins Oneonta after serving as an **** istant coach at SUNY Cortland from 2023 to 2026. During her time at Cortland, she **** isted with practice planning, player development, recruiting, scouting, game preparation, fundraising, community engagement and team operations.
"I'm incredibly thankful for the opportunity to become the next head coach at SUNY Oneonta," LaMont said in the release. "This is a special opportunity, and I'm excited to get to know our student-athletes, build a strong team culture, and help them grow both on and off the field. I can't wait to get to campus, get to work, and be part of the Oneonta community."
LaMont earned her bachelor's degree in physical education from SUNY Cortland in December 2023 and is pursuing a master's degree in Recreation Management and Leisure Services, with an anticipated graduation in May.
#lamont #suny #softball
"SUNY Oneonta Athletics is excited to announce the addition of Megan LaMont as our Head Softball Coach," Athletic Director Ryan Hooper said in a media release. "Megan has a wealth of experience and success that she brings with her. She has a deep passion for the sport and a commitment to developing student-athletes on and off the field. She also has a strong connection with the SUNYAC, having coached within the conference for several years. We're confident that Coach LaMont will be a tremendous **** et for our programs and an outstanding representative of our athletic department."
LaMont joins Oneonta after serving as an **** istant coach at SUNY Cortland from 2023 to 2026. During her time at Cortland, she **** isted with practice planning, player development, recruiting, scouting, game preparation, fundraising, community engagement and team operations.
"I'm incredibly thankful for the opportunity to become the next head coach at SUNY Oneonta," LaMont said in the release. "This is a special opportunity, and I'm excited to get to know our student-athletes, build a strong team culture, and help them grow both on and off the field. I can't wait to get to campus, get to work, and be part of the Oneonta community."
LaMont earned her bachelor's degree in physical education from SUNY Cortland in December 2023 and is pursuing a master's degree in Recreation Management and Leisure Services, with an anticipated graduation in May.
#lamont #suny #softball
2 months ago
The young core of the Atlanta Falcons offense is the same this year as the last. WR1 Drake London, RB1 Bijan Robinson and TE1 Kyle Pitts have all re-signed, so they'll be around for at least the next few seasons.
The depth behind those skill positions has been radically changed this offseason, though. Matt Ryan brought back former Falcons receiver Olamide Zaccheaus and also signed Jahan Dotson and drafted Zachariah Branch at wide receiver.
At tight end Ryan re-signed ex-Falcons star Austin Hooper and at running back Brian Robinson Jr. has replaced Tyler Allgeier as the No. 2 behind Bijan Robinson. Free agent addition Tyler Goodson project as the RB3.
With all those new pieces it's difficult to predict how the rest of the pecking order will go in the passing game beyond the top three Musketeers. Pro Football Focus ****** yst Gordon McGuinness believes the fourth option may fall to rookie receiver Zachariah Branch.
"The concern is that Atlanta doesn't have much else to get excited about at the position. Free-agent additions Jahan Dotson and Olamide Zaccheaus both earned PFF receiving grades below 60.0 and averaged fewer than 1.00 yards per route run in 2025. They do have Kyle Pitts at tight end and Bijan Robinson at running back, who combined for 213 targets last year, but don't be shocked to see rookie third-round draft pick Zachariah Brand finish fourth on this team in targets."
#falcons #bijan #zachariah #back
The depth behind those skill positions has been radically changed this offseason, though. Matt Ryan brought back former Falcons receiver Olamide Zaccheaus and also signed Jahan Dotson and drafted Zachariah Branch at wide receiver.
At tight end Ryan re-signed ex-Falcons star Austin Hooper and at running back Brian Robinson Jr. has replaced Tyler Allgeier as the No. 2 behind Bijan Robinson. Free agent addition Tyler Goodson project as the RB3.
With all those new pieces it's difficult to predict how the rest of the pecking order will go in the passing game beyond the top three Musketeers. Pro Football Focus ****** yst Gordon McGuinness believes the fourth option may fall to rookie receiver Zachariah Branch.
"The concern is that Atlanta doesn't have much else to get excited about at the position. Free-agent additions Jahan Dotson and Olamide Zaccheaus both earned PFF receiving grades below 60.0 and averaged fewer than 1.00 yards per route run in 2025. They do have Kyle Pitts at tight end and Bijan Robinson at running back, who combined for 213 targets last year, but don't be shocked to see rookie third-round draft pick Zachariah Brand finish fourth on this team in targets."
#falcons #bijan #zachariah #back
2 months ago
New York Knicks forward and championship hero OG Anunoby returned to his birthplace in London, for a ****** le cause.
Anunoby, with ****** istance from the NBPA, has teamed up with London Mayor Sadiq Khan to help improve public basketball infrastructure in his birthplace.
Anunoby was born in Harlesden, London, and lived there until he was four years old before his family moved to Missouri, where he pursued his basketball career.
Mayor Khan revealed that his government will team up with Anunoby to refurbish and create public basketball courts for Londoners to use, helping aspiring English hoopers.
"Could this court produce the next NBA player? Every great player starts somewhere. ****** ody starts in the NBA; they start somewhere like this."
#anunoby #Basketball #mayor #somewhere
Anunoby, with ****** istance from the NBPA, has teamed up with London Mayor Sadiq Khan to help improve public basketball infrastructure in his birthplace.
Anunoby was born in Harlesden, London, and lived there until he was four years old before his family moved to Missouri, where he pursued his basketball career.
Mayor Khan revealed that his government will team up with Anunoby to refurbish and create public basketball courts for Londoners to use, helping aspiring English hoopers.
"Could this court produce the next NBA player? Every great player starts somewhere. ****** ody starts in the NBA; they start somewhere like this."
#anunoby #Basketball #mayor #somewhere
3 months ago
Former NBA player MarJon Beauchamp was briefly detained -- then quickly released by police -- after trying to break up a fight between friends ... but, before they let him go, all those around him were in for a treat as he flashed his abs. See for yourself -- the former Philadelphia 76ers hooper had his body on full display just before 3 AM in Seattle, Washington, while police spoke to him about the incident.
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Former NBA player MarJon Beauchamp was briefly …
#beauchamp
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Former NBA player MarJon Beauchamp was briefly …
#beauchamp
3 months ago
If the Hulbert volleyball team is anything, head coach Eva Hooper wants them to be tough.
Coming into the season, the Lady Riders are ready to keep rolling with the punches, with a first-year head coach, some losses of senior players and eventual in-season injuries.
Hooper thinks the Lady Riders are going to be fine on the court, but with the season looming, she wants to makes sure her team can take adversity and grow from it.
"I want our team to progress the most in our mental toughness," Hooper said. "We've gone through some changes due to injuries, losing key players from last year and even getting a new head coach. Getting used to big changes and a different type of play can be challenging. I just want the girls to trust in themselves and each other enough to push through anything."
Building a strong mentality will play into the hands of the Lady Riders, who are expecting to have a high-powered offense this season. HHS returns Abbigal ******* , one of their leading hitters from last year, and reining Offensive Player of the Year to lead the offense's high-powered kill game.
#hooper #season #anything
Coming into the season, the Lady Riders are ready to keep rolling with the punches, with a first-year head coach, some losses of senior players and eventual in-season injuries.
Hooper thinks the Lady Riders are going to be fine on the court, but with the season looming, she wants to makes sure her team can take adversity and grow from it.
"I want our team to progress the most in our mental toughness," Hooper said. "We've gone through some changes due to injuries, losing key players from last year and even getting a new head coach. Getting used to big changes and a different type of play can be challenging. I just want the girls to trust in themselves and each other enough to push through anything."
Building a strong mentality will play into the hands of the Lady Riders, who are expecting to have a high-powered offense this season. HHS returns Abbigal ******* , one of their leading hitters from last year, and reining Offensive Player of the Year to lead the offense's high-powered kill game.
#hooper #season #anything
3 months ago
The talent in the NBA is just different compared to an average hooper. The players in the league are just at another level and that's why they are where they're at.
Philadelphia 76ers star Jaylen Brown had to teach that lesson to a fan while on his travels overseas. Brown received some playful banter from a fan who said she could guard the 2024 finals MVP and Brown called her out on to the makeshift basketball court to teach her a lesson.
One has to give the fan credit. She gave everything she had out there as she was able to knock the ball away a few times and gave a good contest, but Brown still knocked down the shot and gave his respects afterward.
Brown averaged 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 ***** ists in the 2025-26 season for the Boston Celtics. He will now bring that type of production to Philadelphia and give the Sixers a legitimate crunch time scorer next to Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and LeBron James.
This article originally appeared on Sixers Wire: Sixers' Jaylen Brown goes 1-on-1 with fan who said she could guard him
#gave #jaylen
Philadelphia 76ers star Jaylen Brown had to teach that lesson to a fan while on his travels overseas. Brown received some playful banter from a fan who said she could guard the 2024 finals MVP and Brown called her out on to the makeshift basketball court to teach her a lesson.
One has to give the fan credit. She gave everything she had out there as she was able to knock the ball away a few times and gave a good contest, but Brown still knocked down the shot and gave his respects afterward.
Brown averaged 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 ***** ists in the 2025-26 season for the Boston Celtics. He will now bring that type of production to Philadelphia and give the Sixers a legitimate crunch time scorer next to Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and LeBron James.
This article originally appeared on Sixers Wire: Sixers' Jaylen Brown goes 1-on-1 with fan who said she could guard him
#gave #jaylen
3 months ago
New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel is confident that tight end Eli Raridon will be able to play with NFL-level speed next season.
Speaking at a press conference, Vrabel spoke highly of Raridon and the vision that he has for him for next season. The Patriots are clearly expecting a lot from the rookie third-round draft pick after losing veteran Julian Hill to a season-ending injury.
Austin Hooper also left for the Atlanta Falcons in free agency.
"New offense," Vrabel said. "New scheme. New NFL. Capable, willing learner. We'll see when pads come on. Things change. But I think he's tried to play with the speed that we felt like he had, and may not always have shown."
Raridon is in line to be the Patriots' backup tight end behind Hunter Henry next season. He went for 482 receiving yards in his final collegiate year at Notre Dame and was highly-touted for his skills as a receiver and a blocker.
#raridon #highly
Speaking at a press conference, Vrabel spoke highly of Raridon and the vision that he has for him for next season. The Patriots are clearly expecting a lot from the rookie third-round draft pick after losing veteran Julian Hill to a season-ending injury.
Austin Hooper also left for the Atlanta Falcons in free agency.
"New offense," Vrabel said. "New scheme. New NFL. Capable, willing learner. We'll see when pads come on. Things change. But I think he's tried to play with the speed that we felt like he had, and may not always have shown."
Raridon is in line to be the Patriots' backup tight end behind Hunter Henry next season. He went for 482 receiving yards in his final collegiate year at Notre Dame and was highly-touted for his skills as a receiver and a blocker.
#raridon #highly
3 months ago
Based on the New England Patriots' 2026 offseason moves, the organization made improving quarterback Drake Maye's offensive weapons a priority. In the process, the Patriots added to a previously aging tight end room.
Following an Austin Hooper exit to the Atlanta Falcons in free agency, New England signed hybrid tight end Julian Hill. It also selected Notre Dame's Eli Raridon in the third round of the NFL Draft. However, a season-ending injury to Hill during a spring practice left a void in the group that remains unresolved.
In the final edition of our Patriots training camp preview series, we'll take a look at New England's tight end corps in its entirety and discuss the biggest takeaways heading into the summer practices.
*Denotes player on the Pats Pulpit 53-man roster projection
Starters: Hunter Henry (31)*, Eli Raridon (22/R)* | Backups: Tanner Arkin (22/R)*, Jack Westover (27), C.J. Dippre (24), Mitch Van Vooren (25), Jeremiah Franklin (22) | IR: Julian Hill (25)
#hill #tight #drake
Following an Austin Hooper exit to the Atlanta Falcons in free agency, New England signed hybrid tight end Julian Hill. It also selected Notre Dame's Eli Raridon in the third round of the NFL Draft. However, a season-ending injury to Hill during a spring practice left a void in the group that remains unresolved.
In the final edition of our Patriots training camp preview series, we'll take a look at New England's tight end corps in its entirety and discuss the biggest takeaways heading into the summer practices.
*Denotes player on the Pats Pulpit 53-man roster projection
Starters: Hunter Henry (31)*, Eli Raridon (22/R)* | Backups: Tanner Arkin (22/R)*, Jack Westover (27), C.J. Dippre (24), Mitch Van Vooren (25), Jeremiah Franklin (22) | IR: Julian Hill (25)
#hill #tight #drake
3 months ago
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 09: Carter Bryant #11 of the San Antonio Spurs drives against Zuby Ejiofor #20 of the Atlanta Hawks in the first half of a 2026 NBA Summer League game at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 09, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
Only 16 days separate players from NBA Draft Night to the Summer League. Hoopers end up travelling from the cityscapes and bridges of Brooklyn to the desert heat of 43 degrees Celsius and pumping air conditioning units of Las Vegas. Today, the first slew of 76 games kicked off spanning 11 days that will feature the 2026 NBA rookie class and undrafted talent that will be vying for final spots on an NBA roster.
Summer League is a breeding ground of hope. It’s where players are proving their worth one last time before final rosters are locked. It's where, with any luck, questions get answered – or perhaps not. Will an x-factor be unearthed? Which team will show the most promise? Which teams can find an extra edge?
Most of the intrigue will be centred around: who’s going to deliver this year in Las Vegas? For the basketball fan, there's usually something in it for everyone.
Here’s what we'll be watching:
Only 16 days separate players from NBA Draft Night to the Summer League. Hoopers end up travelling from the cityscapes and bridges of Brooklyn to the desert heat of 43 degrees Celsius and pumping air conditioning units of Las Vegas. Today, the first slew of 76 games kicked off spanning 11 days that will feature the 2026 NBA rookie class and undrafted talent that will be vying for final spots on an NBA roster.
Summer League is a breeding ground of hope. It’s where players are proving their worth one last time before final rosters are locked. It's where, with any luck, questions get answered – or perhaps not. Will an x-factor be unearthed? Which team will show the most promise? Which teams can find an extra edge?
Most of the intrigue will be centred around: who’s going to deliver this year in Las Vegas? For the basketball fan, there's usually something in it for everyone.
Here’s what we'll be watching:
3 months ago
Last week, the Los Angeles Lakers seemingly struck gold when they agreed to send two future first-round draft picks and two pick swaps to the Utah Jazz for 24-year-old, 7-foot-2 Walker Kessler, one of the best defensive centers in the NBA. They had been linked to Kessler for a couple of years, and he is now officially a member of their roster, which fulfills the biggest item on their offseason wish list.
But with backup center Jaxson Hayes' departure and the trade that sent Deandre Ayton, their starting center this past season, to the Washington Wizards, the Lakers needed a serviceable backup center. To that end, they got Kevon Looney to agree to a veteran minimum deal with them.
According to Dave McMenamin of ESPN, Looney chose the Lakers because the 30-year-old feels some of the offensive sets they plan to run resemble the ones the Golden State Warriors ran to spring Klay Thompson and Stephen Curry loose.
"They needed a backup center, right?" McMenamin said. "He had some opportunities around the league. I spoke to someone close to him today who said that he saw it as a clear opportunity. He saw a parallel between some of the half-court sets that they're going to run, the way he can free up Luka [Doncic] and AR (Austin Reaves) the same way he freed up Klay and Steph with screens -- multi-time champion.
"And then let's talk off the court. He's a UCLA guy. He spends the offseasons in L.A. He's getting married this weekend to his bride, who is also a hooper at Cal State. So it's a happy time for the Looney family, and I've spent some time around Kevon — he's a good guy to have among this group as a veteran leader as well."
But with backup center Jaxson Hayes' departure and the trade that sent Deandre Ayton, their starting center this past season, to the Washington Wizards, the Lakers needed a serviceable backup center. To that end, they got Kevon Looney to agree to a veteran minimum deal with them.
According to Dave McMenamin of ESPN, Looney chose the Lakers because the 30-year-old feels some of the offensive sets they plan to run resemble the ones the Golden State Warriors ran to spring Klay Thompson and Stephen Curry loose.
"They needed a backup center, right?" McMenamin said. "He had some opportunities around the league. I spoke to someone close to him today who said that he saw it as a clear opportunity. He saw a parallel between some of the half-court sets that they're going to run, the way he can free up Luka [Doncic] and AR (Austin Reaves) the same way he freed up Klay and Steph with screens -- multi-time champion.
"And then let's talk off the court. He's a UCLA guy. He spends the offseasons in L.A. He's getting married this weekend to his bride, who is also a hooper at Cal State. So it's a happy time for the Looney family, and I've spent some time around Kevon — he's a good guy to have among this group as a veteran leader as well."
3 months ago
Tom Hooper hopes he can win a Prem ***** le with Exeter before he returns to Australia.
The 25-year-old flanker has extended his contract at the Chiefs until the summer of 2028 before agreeing a deal with Rugby Australia to return to his homeland.
He will join the Queensland Reds ahead of the 2029 Super Rugby Pacific season.
Hooper impressed in his first season at Sandy Park, helping an Exeter side that finished second-from-bottom in 2025 reach last month's Prem final at Twickenham.
Exeter were beaten 26-17 by Northampton in the final, but Hooper feels the squad has what it takes to win a third ***** le for the Devon club.
The 25-year-old flanker has extended his contract at the Chiefs until the summer of 2028 before agreeing a deal with Rugby Australia to return to his homeland.
He will join the Queensland Reds ahead of the 2029 Super Rugby Pacific season.
Hooper impressed in his first season at Sandy Park, helping an Exeter side that finished second-from-bottom in 2025 reach last month's Prem final at Twickenham.
Exeter were beaten 26-17 by Northampton in the final, but Hooper feels the squad has what it takes to win a third ***** le for the Devon club.
3 months ago
The story of basketball in America can’t be told without mentioning North Carolina.
Affectionately known as the “Hoop State” for its love of the sport created by Dr. James Naismith in 1891, North Carolina has produced some all-time hoopers.
As the United States celebrates the year of its 250th birthday, The Fayetteville Observer/USA TODAY Network takes a look at 25 of the best basketball players from North Carolina. Six of those players were represented on the NBA’s 75th anniversary team in 2021, and 11 of them are in the Naismith Hall of Fame, as of 2026.
The list includes a starting five, second team, third team, fourth team and fifth team (a small-ball lineup) from hoopers who spent significant time growing up and playing high school basketball in North Carolina.
'SKYWALKER': NC State basketball’s David Thompson honored with statue, lauded by legends
Affectionately known as the “Hoop State” for its love of the sport created by Dr. James Naismith in 1891, North Carolina has produced some all-time hoopers.
As the United States celebrates the year of its 250th birthday, The Fayetteville Observer/USA TODAY Network takes a look at 25 of the best basketball players from North Carolina. Six of those players were represented on the NBA’s 75th anniversary team in 2021, and 11 of them are in the Naismith Hall of Fame, as of 2026.
The list includes a starting five, second team, third team, fourth team and fifth team (a small-ball lineup) from hoopers who spent significant time growing up and playing high school basketball in North Carolina.
'SKYWALKER': NC State basketball’s David Thompson honored with statue, lauded by legends
3 months ago
Some fights end at the sound of the final bell, but true legacies never leave the ring. Long before Rodriguez Boxing Club became a boxing institution, Alfonso “Al” Rodriguez, the gym’s founder and a leader in the Valley’s boxing community, was training his children in an improvised gym at his home.
Rodriguez died July 6, 2026, at 79, leaving behind a legacy built over more than six decades of service, discipline and commitment to his community. Now, his family is working to keep the mission he started alive.
What started as a family ******* e eventually grew into a refuge for generations of young people and a highly respected boxing gym in Phoenix.
Today, Rodriguez Boxing Club stands as a historic, family-run nonprofit gym in the heart of the Valley. Founded in 1961, the gym provides accessible training and personalized mentorship for everyone from beginners to professional boxers.
Al and his wife, Carmen Rodriguez, both natives of Texas, settled in Arizona and had five children: Al Rodriguez Jr., better known as “Al Baby Rodriguez,” who died during the COVID-19 pandemic; Carolina Olmos; Ofelia Hooper; Fernando Rodriguez; and Seferino “Sefe” Rodriguez.
Rodriguez died July 6, 2026, at 79, leaving behind a legacy built over more than six decades of service, discipline and commitment to his community. Now, his family is working to keep the mission he started alive.
What started as a family ******* e eventually grew into a refuge for generations of young people and a highly respected boxing gym in Phoenix.
Today, Rodriguez Boxing Club stands as a historic, family-run nonprofit gym in the heart of the Valley. Founded in 1961, the gym provides accessible training and personalized mentorship for everyone from beginners to professional boxers.
Al and his wife, Carmen Rodriguez, both natives of Texas, settled in Arizona and had five children: Al Rodriguez Jr., better known as “Al Baby Rodriguez,” who died during the COVID-19 pandemic; Carolina Olmos; Ofelia Hooper; Fernando Rodriguez; and Seferino “Sefe” Rodriguez.
4 months ago
The New England Patriots are a deep team.
They added several marquee players to their roster this offseason. New England maintained the strength of their front four and their secondary by replacing the departing K'Lavon Chaisson and Jaylinn Hawkins with Dre'Mont Jones and Kevin Byard. They also made many improvements to their offensive line, but their offensive weapons around quarterback Drake Maye are the best they've been since he entered the league.
According to ESPN's Bill Barnwell in his ranking of the NFL's wide receiver, tight end and running back groups of playmakers for next season, the Patriots' unit ranks No. 10 in the league.
"The top 10 starts with the Patriots, who added an elite receiver to the mix after trading for A.J. Brown this summer," Barnwell said. "Brown left Philadelphia after a frustrating 2025 season, but there's still plenty of evidence that Brown is one of the top wideouts in all of football. … While there's a drop-off from Brown to the rest of the lineup, the Patriots are much deeper than they've been in years."
Brown and Doubs are one of the best wide receiver duos in the league, with upside that might potentially be getting overlooked for next season. Henderson and Stevenson are two running backs who have the capability to rush for 1,000 yards, and the addition of rookie tight end Eli Raridon gives New England a good replacement for Austin Hooper behind Hunter Henry for next season.
They added several marquee players to their roster this offseason. New England maintained the strength of their front four and their secondary by replacing the departing K'Lavon Chaisson and Jaylinn Hawkins with Dre'Mont Jones and Kevin Byard. They also made many improvements to their offensive line, but their offensive weapons around quarterback Drake Maye are the best they've been since he entered the league.
According to ESPN's Bill Barnwell in his ranking of the NFL's wide receiver, tight end and running back groups of playmakers for next season, the Patriots' unit ranks No. 10 in the league.
"The top 10 starts with the Patriots, who added an elite receiver to the mix after trading for A.J. Brown this summer," Barnwell said. "Brown left Philadelphia after a frustrating 2025 season, but there's still plenty of evidence that Brown is one of the top wideouts in all of football. … While there's a drop-off from Brown to the rest of the lineup, the Patriots are much deeper than they've been in years."
Brown and Doubs are one of the best wide receiver duos in the league, with upside that might potentially be getting overlooked for next season. Henderson and Stevenson are two running backs who have the capability to rush for 1,000 yards, and the addition of rookie tight end Eli Raridon gives New England a good replacement for Austin Hooper behind Hunter Henry for next season.
4 months ago
Jayden Quaintance is now officially a professional hooper after being selected by the San Antonio Spurs with the 20th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. While it wasn't quite the lottery projections Quaintance was getting for much of his college career, it's still a tremendous situation to be drafted into, arguably the best landing spot he could have hoped for.
Quaintance was a top-five player out of high school, even though he was just 17. John Calipari coveted him, but once he left Kentucky, Mark Pope couldn't close the deal with him, and he headed to Arizona State. There, he tore his knee up in February of 2026 before transferring in to Kentucky at last.
Before last season started, Quaintance was widely projected as a lottery pick. ESPN had him going sixth overall, while CBS Sports and Bleacher Report both mocked him seventh. Instead, concerns about the long-term health of his right knee sent him tumbling down draft boards and ultimately into the lap of the NBA Finals runner-up Spurs.
For most prospects, slipping in the draft is disappointing. For Quaintance, it could mean a lot more.
And it all traces back to the injury that derailed his lone season at Kentucky.
Quaintance was a top-five player out of high school, even though he was just 17. John Calipari coveted him, but once he left Kentucky, Mark Pope couldn't close the deal with him, and he headed to Arizona State. There, he tore his knee up in February of 2026 before transferring in to Kentucky at last.
Before last season started, Quaintance was widely projected as a lottery pick. ESPN had him going sixth overall, while CBS Sports and Bleacher Report both mocked him seventh. Instead, concerns about the long-term health of his right knee sent him tumbling down draft boards and ultimately into the lap of the NBA Finals runner-up Spurs.
For most prospects, slipping in the draft is disappointing. For Quaintance, it could mean a lot more.
And it all traces back to the injury that derailed his lone season at Kentucky.
4 months ago
Four-time Olympian Catherine Raney Norman is leaving the organizing committee for Utah’s 2034 Winter Games.
The departure was described in a news release Wednesday as her decision “to conclude her tenure” with the Organizing Committee for the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
Raney Norman, the organizing committee’s vice president of development and athlete relations, had served as chair of the bid committee and was the key force behind the Podium34 program that has raised more than $250 million for Utah’s next Winter Games.
Also announced was the hiring of Abby Osborne, who just stepped down as chief of staff to House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, as vice president of impact, engagement and enterprise operations. Osborne is giving up her organizing committee board membership.
Julie Letai, a two-time Olympic speedskater, has been named athlete experience coordinator. Other changes at the organizing committee include another vice president, Darren Hughes, moving from being over operations and planning to Games delivery.
The departure was described in a news release Wednesday as her decision “to conclude her tenure” with the Organizing Committee for the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
Raney Norman, the organizing committee’s vice president of development and athlete relations, had served as chair of the bid committee and was the key force behind the Podium34 program that has raised more than $250 million for Utah’s next Winter Games.
Also announced was the hiring of Abby Osborne, who just stepped down as chief of staff to House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, as vice president of impact, engagement and enterprise operations. Osborne is giving up her organizing committee board membership.
Julie Letai, a two-time Olympic speedskater, has been named athlete experience coordinator. Other changes at the organizing committee include another vice president, Darren Hughes, moving from being over operations and planning to Games delivery.
4 months ago
Four-time Olympian Catherine Raney Norman is leaving the organizing committee for Utah’s 2034 Winter Games.
The departure was described in a news release Wednesday as her decision “to conclude her tenure” with the Organizing Committee for the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games."
Raney Norman, the organizing committee’s vice president of development and athlete relations, had served as chair of the bid committee and was the key force behind the Podium34 program that has raised more than $250 million for Utah’s next Winter Games.
Also announced was the hiring of Abby Osborne, who just stepped down as chief of staff to House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, as vice president of impact, engagement and enterprise operations. Osborne is giving up her organizing committee board membership.
Julie Letai, a two-time Olympic speedskater, has been named athlete experience coordinator. Other changes at the organzing committee include another vice president, Darren Hughes, moving from being over operations and planning to Games delivery.
The departure was described in a news release Wednesday as her decision “to conclude her tenure” with the Organizing Committee for the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games."
Raney Norman, the organizing committee’s vice president of development and athlete relations, had served as chair of the bid committee and was the key force behind the Podium34 program that has raised more than $250 million for Utah’s next Winter Games.
Also announced was the hiring of Abby Osborne, who just stepped down as chief of staff to House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, as vice president of impact, engagement and enterprise operations. Osborne is giving up her organizing committee board membership.
Julie Letai, a two-time Olympic speedskater, has been named athlete experience coordinator. Other changes at the organzing committee include another vice president, Darren Hughes, moving from being over operations and planning to Games delivery.
5 months ago
“The Wizard” is planning a comeback.
It has been four years and five months since Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) submission ace Ryan Hall — a.k.a. the “master of the 50/50” — has competed inside the Octagon, and for the most part, he has been M.I.A.
Hall has been mentioned by UFC fighters Cory Sandhagen and Chase Hooper, who have gone to train with him over the last couple of years, but other than that, there has been basically nothing.
However, during a rare podcast appearance with Matt Serra, the unique grappler gave an update on where he has been and revealed that he is planning a comeback.
“It’s been a while, man,” Hall said. “I hadn’t really trained in almost three years. I’m still good, but not sharp, if that makes sense. I’m working to get back to it. I had 23 surgeries in three years — that wasn’t great, and some of them were pretty major. And some of them the doctors goofed up, which they had to do again.”
It has been four years and five months since Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) submission ace Ryan Hall — a.k.a. the “master of the 50/50” — has competed inside the Octagon, and for the most part, he has been M.I.A.
Hall has been mentioned by UFC fighters Cory Sandhagen and Chase Hooper, who have gone to train with him over the last couple of years, but other than that, there has been basically nothing.
However, during a rare podcast appearance with Matt Serra, the unique grappler gave an update on where he has been and revealed that he is planning a comeback.
“It’s been a while, man,” Hall said. “I hadn’t really trained in almost three years. I’m still good, but not sharp, if that makes sense. I’m working to get back to it. I had 23 surgeries in three years — that wasn’t great, and some of them were pretty major. And some of them the doctors goofed up, which they had to do again.”
