17 days ago
APHoops: Anthony Black responds to an Orlando Magic fan who comments "Don't leave please" on his latest Instagram post: "not my choice twin" Black is currently slated to become a restricted free agent next Summer.
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Anthony Black responds to an Orlando Magic fan who …
#black #anthony #Magic
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Anthony Black responds to an Orlando Magic fan who …
#black #anthony #Magic
18 days ago
The OKC Thunder agreed to a five-year, $139 million rookie-scale contract extension with Cason Wallace on Sunday. ESPN's Shams Charania first reported the news.
Wallace averaged career highs of 8.6 points and 2.6 **** ists last season on 43.2% shooting from the field (35.1% from deep). He also recorded a league-leading 150 steals and earned an All-Defensive second team selection.
More: Lu Dort reflects on OKC Thunder legacy as 'new chapter' with Atlanta Hawks begins
OKC had until Monday to sign Wallace to a new deal and avoid him hitting restricted free agency next summer. It's a sign of confidence in the 22-year-old guard, who'll serve as the Thunder's top point-of-attack defender now that Lu Dort is gone.
It's also a sign of commitment from OKC's ownership group after the team made cost-cutting moves this summer. The Thunder traded Dort, Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe in three separate deals for a combined seven second-round picks and didn't get any players in return. That helped it position itself $6.9 million underneath the second apron with one standard roster spot still open.
#sign #cason
Wallace averaged career highs of 8.6 points and 2.6 **** ists last season on 43.2% shooting from the field (35.1% from deep). He also recorded a league-leading 150 steals and earned an All-Defensive second team selection.
More: Lu Dort reflects on OKC Thunder legacy as 'new chapter' with Atlanta Hawks begins
OKC had until Monday to sign Wallace to a new deal and avoid him hitting restricted free agency next summer. It's a sign of confidence in the 22-year-old guard, who'll serve as the Thunder's top point-of-attack defender now that Lu Dort is gone.
It's also a sign of commitment from OKC's ownership group after the team made cost-cutting moves this summer. The Thunder traded Dort, Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe in three separate deals for a combined seven second-round picks and didn't get any players in return. That helped it position itself $6.9 million underneath the second apron with one standard roster spot still open.
#sign #cason
18 days ago
The OKC Thunder agreed to a five-year, $139 million rookie-scale contract extension with Cason Wallace on Sunday. ESPN's Shams Charania first reported the news.
Wallace averaged career highs of 8.6 points and 2.6 **** ists last season on 43.2% shooting from the field (35.1% from deep). He also recorded a league-leading 150 steals and earned an All-Defensive second team selection.
More: Lu Dort reflects on OKC Thunder legacy as 'new chapter' with Atlanta Hawks begins
OKC had until Monday to sign Wallace to a new deal and avoid him hitting restricted free agency next summer. It's a sign of confidence in the 22-year-old guard, who'll serve as the Thunder's top point-of-attack defender now that Lu Dort is gone.
It's also a sign of commitment from OKC's ownership group after the team made cost-cutting moves this summer. The Thunder traded Dort, Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe in three separate deals for a combined seven second-round picks and didn't get any players in return. That helped it position itself $6.9 million underneath the second apron with one standard roster spot still open.
#year #team
Wallace averaged career highs of 8.6 points and 2.6 **** ists last season on 43.2% shooting from the field (35.1% from deep). He also recorded a league-leading 150 steals and earned an All-Defensive second team selection.
More: Lu Dort reflects on OKC Thunder legacy as 'new chapter' with Atlanta Hawks begins
OKC had until Monday to sign Wallace to a new deal and avoid him hitting restricted free agency next summer. It's a sign of confidence in the 22-year-old guard, who'll serve as the Thunder's top point-of-attack defender now that Lu Dort is gone.
It's also a sign of commitment from OKC's ownership group after the team made cost-cutting moves this summer. The Thunder traded Dort, Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe in three separate deals for a combined seven second-round picks and didn't get any players in return. That helped it position itself $6.9 million underneath the second apron with one standard roster spot still open.
#year #team
18 days ago
Cason Wallace and the Oklahoma City Thunder have agreed to a five-year, $139 million extension to his rookie contract, ESPN's Shams Charania reports.
The two sides beat Monday' deadline for players from the 2023 draft class to sign rookie scale extensions. Had they not reached a deal before the deadline, Wallace would have played the final year of his rookie contract on a team option, then entered the 2026-27 offseason as a restricted free agent.
With the deal, the Thunder secure a defensive anchor of their core as they seek to win a second NBA championship in three seasons.
This story will be updated.
#wallace #deadline
The two sides beat Monday' deadline for players from the 2023 draft class to sign rookie scale extensions. Had they not reached a deal before the deadline, Wallace would have played the final year of his rookie contract on a team option, then entered the 2026-27 offseason as a restricted free agent.
With the deal, the Thunder secure a defensive anchor of their core as they seek to win a second NBA championship in three seasons.
This story will be updated.
#wallace #deadline
1 month ago
Halle Berry is seeking to restore the 50-50 custody agreement of her 13-year-old son Maceo with ex Olivier Martinez.
Martinez accused Berry of abusing Maceo in a suit filed last week, which sought both full custody of Maceo and an emergency restraining order against Berry, which was granted.
Berry claims that Martinez has worked to prejudice their son against her, explaining that Maceo often repeats Martinez's side of their private arguments to her, and returns from his care "angry and combative."
Halle Berry is asking a court to restore the 50-50 custody agreement of her 13-year-old son Maceo with ex Olivier Martinez.
That agreement was established in 2023 as their divorce was finalized, eight contentious years after the couple formally separated. Last week, Martinez accused Berry of abusing Maceo in a stunning lawsuit that sought both full custody and an emergency restraining order against Berry. That order was granted the following day, meaning Berry must stay away from her ex and their son for a temporary period, and a judge also restricted Berry's visitation rights.
#agreement #halle #olivier #last
Martinez accused Berry of abusing Maceo in a suit filed last week, which sought both full custody of Maceo and an emergency restraining order against Berry, which was granted.
Berry claims that Martinez has worked to prejudice their son against her, explaining that Maceo often repeats Martinez's side of their private arguments to her, and returns from his care "angry and combative."
Halle Berry is asking a court to restore the 50-50 custody agreement of her 13-year-old son Maceo with ex Olivier Martinez.
That agreement was established in 2023 as their divorce was finalized, eight contentious years after the couple formally separated. Last week, Martinez accused Berry of abusing Maceo in a stunning lawsuit that sought both full custody and an emergency restraining order against Berry. That order was granted the following day, meaning Berry must stay away from her ex and their son for a temporary period, and a judge also restricted Berry's visitation rights.
#agreement #halle #olivier #last
1 month ago
Olivier Martinez accused Halle Berry of physically abusing their son; she has denied the allegations and called them "entirely meritless and deliberately misleading"
A judge granted Martinez a temporary restraining order and temporarily restricted Berry's time with their 12-year-old son
Three California family law attorneys explain what to expect ahead of an Oct. 16 hearing
Halle Berry is facing new restrictions on her time with her 12-year-old son, Maceo, after ex-husband Olivier Martinez accused her of physically abusing their child.
A Los Angeles County judge granted Martinez, 60, a temporary restraining order against Berry, 60, on Oct. 1, and restricted her parenting time to daytime visits ahead of an Oct. 16 hearing. Berry's visitation with Maceo is currently limited to Mondays and Tuesdays between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
#accused #abusing
A judge granted Martinez a temporary restraining order and temporarily restricted Berry's time with their 12-year-old son
Three California family law attorneys explain what to expect ahead of an Oct. 16 hearing
Halle Berry is facing new restrictions on her time with her 12-year-old son, Maceo, after ex-husband Olivier Martinez accused her of physically abusing their child.
A Los Angeles County judge granted Martinez, 60, a temporary restraining order against Berry, 60, on Oct. 1, and restricted her parenting time to daytime visits ahead of an Oct. 16 hearing. Berry's visitation with Maceo is currently limited to Mondays and Tuesdays between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
#accused #abusing
2 months ago
On August 6, Republic Services (NYSE:RSG) reported earnings of $1.84 per diluted share for the quarter that closed on June 30, up from $1.75 a year earlier, and lifted most of its full-year targets. Here is the odd part. The company moved less volume than it did a year ago and still grew profit. Understanding how that works, and how long it can last, is the whole story.
Start with pricing, because that is the engine. Core price on total revenue added 5.3% to growth, which helped lift total revenue by 4.6%. Inside the related business, price contributed 4.1% in the restricted portion and 7.8% in the open market. Management says price beat cost inflation, and the margin backs that up. Adjusted EBITDA reached $1.42 billion at a 32.1% margin, matching the prior year even after Republic absorbed a 50 basis point drag from event-driven landfill volumes it received in 2025.
Cash generation is just as sturdy. Through the first half of 2026, operations produced $2.38 billion, and adjusted free cash flow came to $1.58 billion. That paid for $860 million of acquisitions and $1.04 billion returned to shareholders, so Republic is buying growth and rewarding owners from the same pool. The board added 4.5 cents to the quarterly dividend, setting it at $0.670 per share with an October 2 record date and payment on October 15. Management also raised full-year revenue, adjusted EBITDA, and free cash flow guidance, and set adjusted earnings at $7.23 to $7.28 per share.
The catch is that volume is moving the wrong way. Average yield added 3.4% to total revenue, while volume took away 1.6%, and the related business gave up 1.9% to volume. That makes this a price-led story, and price can only carry so much weight if volumes keep shrinking. Acquisitions also supplied 1.1% of the 4.6% total growth, so organic growth is smaller than the headline suggests.
Other lines were softer too. The environmental solutions business slipped 0.2%, so it added no lift. Recycled commodities sold for an average of $136 per ton at Republic's recycling centers, which is $13 lower than a year earlier. Margin only matched last year's level, and adjusted earnings per share rose 4.5%, just under revenue growth, so profit grew in step with sales rather than faster.
#year
Start with pricing, because that is the engine. Core price on total revenue added 5.3% to growth, which helped lift total revenue by 4.6%. Inside the related business, price contributed 4.1% in the restricted portion and 7.8% in the open market. Management says price beat cost inflation, and the margin backs that up. Adjusted EBITDA reached $1.42 billion at a 32.1% margin, matching the prior year even after Republic absorbed a 50 basis point drag from event-driven landfill volumes it received in 2025.
Cash generation is just as sturdy. Through the first half of 2026, operations produced $2.38 billion, and adjusted free cash flow came to $1.58 billion. That paid for $860 million of acquisitions and $1.04 billion returned to shareholders, so Republic is buying growth and rewarding owners from the same pool. The board added 4.5 cents to the quarterly dividend, setting it at $0.670 per share with an October 2 record date and payment on October 15. Management also raised full-year revenue, adjusted EBITDA, and free cash flow guidance, and set adjusted earnings at $7.23 to $7.28 per share.
The catch is that volume is moving the wrong way. Average yield added 3.4% to total revenue, while volume took away 1.6%, and the related business gave up 1.9% to volume. That makes this a price-led story, and price can only carry so much weight if volumes keep shrinking. Acquisitions also supplied 1.1% of the 4.6% total growth, so organic growth is smaller than the headline suggests.
Other lines were softer too. The environmental solutions business slipped 0.2%, so it added no lift. Recycled commodities sold for an average of $136 per ton at Republic's recycling centers, which is $13 lower than a year earlier. Margin only matched last year's level, and adjusted earnings per share rose 4.5%, just under revenue growth, so profit grew in step with sales rather than faster.
#year
2 months ago
Circle Internet Group, Inc. (NYSE:CRCL), issuer of the dollar-backed USDC stablecoin, announced on September 8 an agreement to acquire Singapore-based Tazapay, which serves payment providers and financial institutions.
Circle Internet Group, Inc. (NYSE:CRCL) agreed to pay approximately $400 million in Class A common stock, subject to adjustments for debt, cash, and transaction expenses. Separately, the agreement provides for $25 million of post-closing employee restricted stock unit awards.
As of July 31, 2026, Tazapay had more than $25 billion of annualized payment volume, over 60 banking and fintech partners, and payout capabilities across more than 100 markets. Approximately 60% of transaction volume involves stablecoins; USDC's share was not specified. Payment volume represents funds processed, not revenue.
Closing is expected in 2027, subject to customary conditions and regulatory approvals, including approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
Tazapay would strengthen the connections between digital dollars and local bank payments. Within the Circle Payments Network, originating institutions can convert funds into stablecoins for settlement, while receiving institutions convert them into local currency and pay recipients. Merchants can benefit without requiring every customer or supplier to hold tokens.
#tazapay
Circle Internet Group, Inc. (NYSE:CRCL) agreed to pay approximately $400 million in Class A common stock, subject to adjustments for debt, cash, and transaction expenses. Separately, the agreement provides for $25 million of post-closing employee restricted stock unit awards.
As of July 31, 2026, Tazapay had more than $25 billion of annualized payment volume, over 60 banking and fintech partners, and payout capabilities across more than 100 markets. Approximately 60% of transaction volume involves stablecoins; USDC's share was not specified. Payment volume represents funds processed, not revenue.
Closing is expected in 2027, subject to customary conditions and regulatory approvals, including approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
Tazapay would strengthen the connections between digital dollars and local bank payments. Within the Circle Payments Network, originating institutions can convert funds into stablecoins for settlement, while receiving institutions convert them into local currency and pay recipients. Merchants can benefit without requiring every customer or supplier to hold tokens.
#tazapay
2 months ago
NHL rumors: Blue Jackets fans won't love Pierre LeBrun's Adam Fantilli update appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Members of the Columbus Blue Jackets are set to arrive for camp on September 16, with the first on-ice workouts scheduled for the next day. Earlier on Monday, the Blue Jackets added Cam Talbot to the team, bringing in another netminder for camp.
Still, there is one player on the roster who may not be on the ice on September 17. Adam Fantilli is still without a contract from the team, and talks with the restricted free agent are going slowly, according to Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic.
"Adam Fantilli remained unsigned Monday ahead of Blue Jackets camp opening this week. The sides continue to talk, which is good, but there's a sizeable gap to overcome. 'Very slow' was how one source described things," LeBrun wrote. "That negotiation needs a positive uptick. The slowness certainly hasn't been for a lack of effort from either side this summer. There have been offers and counter-offers, but they're just not there yet."
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
#camp #clutchpoints #september #lebrun
Members of the Columbus Blue Jackets are set to arrive for camp on September 16, with the first on-ice workouts scheduled for the next day. Earlier on Monday, the Blue Jackets added Cam Talbot to the team, bringing in another netminder for camp.
Still, there is one player on the roster who may not be on the ice on September 17. Adam Fantilli is still without a contract from the team, and talks with the restricted free agent are going slowly, according to Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic.
"Adam Fantilli remained unsigned Monday ahead of Blue Jackets camp opening this week. The sides continue to talk, which is good, but there's a sizeable gap to overcome. 'Very slow' was how one source described things," LeBrun wrote. "That negotiation needs a positive uptick. The slowness certainly hasn't been for a lack of effort from either side this summer. There have been offers and counter-offers, but they're just not there yet."
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
#camp #clutchpoints #september #lebrun
2 months ago
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR)'s Middle East business showed a meaningful improvement in July, with revenue per available room (RevPAR) declining 12% year over year, a sharp improvement from the 43% decline in the second quarter. The improvement came despite continued regional conflict, suggesting that demand is proving more resilient than initially feared. More importantly, Marriott's global business remains strong: global room revenue increased 7% in July, with the U.S. and Canada up 8%.
However, the Middle East remains a risk to Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR)'s growth strategy. The region represents only about 3% of Marriott's global fees but 6% of its development pipeline, meaning prolonged conflict can have an outsized impact on future hotel openings. Supply-chain disruptions and restricted capital flows have already delayed projects, pushing Marriott toward the lower end of its full-year net unit growth target.
The biggest positive is that the Middle East headwind appears to be easing faster than expected. Moving from a 43% RevPAR decline in the second quarter to just 12% in July suggests travel demand can recover even as geopolitical risks remain elevated. If the conflict stabilizes, Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR) could see a relatively quick rebound in regional occupancy and room rates.
More importantly, the Middle East is not large enough to overwhelm Marriott's broader global performance. The company generated a 7% increase in global room revenue in July, while U.S. and Canadian room revenue rose 8%. RevPAR growth was also broad-based across luxury, premium/select and mid-scale brands, suggesting that Marriott's strength is not dependent solely on wealthy travelers.
Marriott also benefits from an ***** et-light, fee-driven model, meaning stronger hotel demand can translate into attractive cash generation without requiring the company to own most of the underlying properties. Barron's has highlighted the resilience of this model, alongside the strength of Marriott Bonvoy and additional growth opportunities from its credit-card partnerships.
#marriott #middle #room
However, the Middle East remains a risk to Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR)'s growth strategy. The region represents only about 3% of Marriott's global fees but 6% of its development pipeline, meaning prolonged conflict can have an outsized impact on future hotel openings. Supply-chain disruptions and restricted capital flows have already delayed projects, pushing Marriott toward the lower end of its full-year net unit growth target.
The biggest positive is that the Middle East headwind appears to be easing faster than expected. Moving from a 43% RevPAR decline in the second quarter to just 12% in July suggests travel demand can recover even as geopolitical risks remain elevated. If the conflict stabilizes, Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR) could see a relatively quick rebound in regional occupancy and room rates.
More importantly, the Middle East is not large enough to overwhelm Marriott's broader global performance. The company generated a 7% increase in global room revenue in July, while U.S. and Canadian room revenue rose 8%. RevPAR growth was also broad-based across luxury, premium/select and mid-scale brands, suggesting that Marriott's strength is not dependent solely on wealthy travelers.
Marriott also benefits from an ***** et-light, fee-driven model, meaning stronger hotel demand can translate into attractive cash generation without requiring the company to own most of the underlying properties. Barron's has highlighted the resilience of this model, alongside the strength of Marriott Bonvoy and additional growth opportunities from its credit-card partnerships.
#marriott #middle #room
2 months ago
Sydney Sweeney has come under fire for another advertising campaign.
The Euphoria actor has teamed up with Novig, a new platform that combines sports trading with prediction-market features and is restricted to users aged 21 and above.
But the conversation isn't about the platform, which she is the new strategic partner and equity holder for. Instead, the marketing campaign has sparked a debate about how women are represented in sports.
The minute-long ad, ****** led "Just Sports," features the Christy actress posing in nothing but strategically placed footballs, basketball hoops, hockey pads, and a pool cue. The concept is that the platform focuses on sports and nothing else.
Marissa Womack, manager of game day promotions for the Harrisburg Senators, addressed the video and its backlash in a TikTok video: "This isn't about me being jealous or insecure. It's about the fact that this is already a male-dominated field where we constantly have to prove we belong. When the only representation is ****** ualization, you see fewer and fewer young women wanting to pursue this industry."
#sports #platform #nothing
The Euphoria actor has teamed up with Novig, a new platform that combines sports trading with prediction-market features and is restricted to users aged 21 and above.
But the conversation isn't about the platform, which she is the new strategic partner and equity holder for. Instead, the marketing campaign has sparked a debate about how women are represented in sports.
The minute-long ad, ****** led "Just Sports," features the Christy actress posing in nothing but strategically placed footballs, basketball hoops, hockey pads, and a pool cue. The concept is that the platform focuses on sports and nothing else.
Marissa Womack, manager of game day promotions for the Harrisburg Senators, addressed the video and its backlash in a TikTok video: "This isn't about me being jealous or insecure. It's about the fact that this is already a male-dominated field where we constantly have to prove we belong. When the only representation is ****** ualization, you see fewer and fewer young women wanting to pursue this industry."
#sports #platform #nothing
2 months ago
October WTI crude oil (CLV26) on Friday closed down -2.43 (-2.37%), and October RBOB gasoline (RBV26) closed down -0.0860 (-2.53%).
Oct WTI oil prices on Friday fell back after Thursday's +6.7% rally to a 3.5-month high. Oil prices fell back after the International Energy Agency (IEA) on Friday warned that high oil prices and restricted oil supply will cause the biggest drop in global oil demand this year since the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite the projected demand drop, the IEA raised its estimate for this year's global oil deficit to 1.7 million bpd from last month's 1.3 million bpd estimate due to the restricted supply caused by the US-Iran war. The IEA said the return of a global oil surplus will be delayed until 2027, later than its previous estimate of late 2026.
Crude Oil Prices Soar on Fears US-Iran War to Persist
Crude Oil at $100 Gets All the Attention. Watch These 5 Charts to Track the Energy Market Mechanics Behind the Headlines.
Nat-Gas Prices Recover as European Nat-Gas Surges
#prices #estimate #october #closed
Oct WTI oil prices on Friday fell back after Thursday's +6.7% rally to a 3.5-month high. Oil prices fell back after the International Energy Agency (IEA) on Friday warned that high oil prices and restricted oil supply will cause the biggest drop in global oil demand this year since the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite the projected demand drop, the IEA raised its estimate for this year's global oil deficit to 1.7 million bpd from last month's 1.3 million bpd estimate due to the restricted supply caused by the US-Iran war. The IEA said the return of a global oil surplus will be delayed until 2027, later than its previous estimate of late 2026.
Crude Oil Prices Soar on Fears US-Iran War to Persist
Crude Oil at $100 Gets All the Attention. Watch These 5 Charts to Track the Energy Market Mechanics Behind the Headlines.
Nat-Gas Prices Recover as European Nat-Gas Surges
#prices #estimate #october #closed
2 months ago
LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 27: Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan practises with Coach Stefano Vukov ahead of The Championships Wimbledon 2023 at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on June 27, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) Getty
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 09: Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan looks on against Qinwen Zheng of China during their Women's Singles Quarterfinal match on Day Eleven of the 2026 US Open at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on September 09, 2026 in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) Getty
The coach of Kazakhstan's Elena Rybakina, Stefano Vukov, supports her from the players box as she competes against Belarus' Victoria Azarenka during their women's singles semi-final match on day eleven of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne on January 26, 2023. - -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- (Photo by Martin KEEP / AFP) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- (Photo by MARTIN KEEP/AFP via Getty Images) Getty
LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 25: Stefano Vukov watches Elena Rybakina train before The Championships Wimbledon 2026 at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on June 25, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) Getty
Elena Rybakina is a professional tennis player widely regarded as one of the world's best. Her coach, Stefano Vukov, is also rumored to be her boyfriend. Vukov transitioned from playing professionally to coaching Rybakina. The 39-year-old was born on March 27, 1987.
#rybakina #elena #london
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 09: Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan looks on against Qinwen Zheng of China during their Women's Singles Quarterfinal match on Day Eleven of the 2026 US Open at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on September 09, 2026 in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) Getty
The coach of Kazakhstan's Elena Rybakina, Stefano Vukov, supports her from the players box as she competes against Belarus' Victoria Azarenka during their women's singles semi-final match on day eleven of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne on January 26, 2023. - -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- (Photo by Martin KEEP / AFP) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- (Photo by MARTIN KEEP/AFP via Getty Images) Getty
LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 25: Stefano Vukov watches Elena Rybakina train before The Championships Wimbledon 2026 at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on June 25, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) Getty
Elena Rybakina is a professional tennis player widely regarded as one of the world's best. Her coach, Stefano Vukov, is also rumored to be her boyfriend. Vukov transitioned from playing professionally to coaching Rybakina. The 39-year-old was born on March 27, 1987.
#rybakina #elena #london
2 months ago
America's F1 hopeful Colton Herta pulls out of the sprint F2 race in Madrid with illness, but it comes after the FIA penalised him to start from the pitlane.
It is not going well for America's F1 hopeful Herta at all in the FIA Formula 2 (F2) Championship in 2026. Having taken a big step to move away from IndyCar in the hope of securing enough superlicence points to race in Formula 1, potentially with Cadillac, the season hasn't gone his way at all.
Racing for Hitech GP, Herta is 17th with 26 points after 10 rounds, with a best result of fifth. The American is racing at F1's new Madring circuit in Madrid on Spanish GP weekend. He started it well in fourth. He was doing well in qualifying in the Top 10 for the most part.
However, he dropped to 12th in the end after he suffered a crash at Turn 19 to end the session. Following the day's run, just before Restricted Period One kicked in for F2 teams, Hitech GP found a problem with the American's car, which they started to work on.
Since it was a priority, they continued working into Restricted Period One and therefore were in breach of Article 21.6a of the F2 regulations. The technical delegate reported the matter, and the stewards duly penalised him with a pitlane start in Madrid's sprint race on Saturday.
#herta #madrid
It is not going well for America's F1 hopeful Herta at all in the FIA Formula 2 (F2) Championship in 2026. Having taken a big step to move away from IndyCar in the hope of securing enough superlicence points to race in Formula 1, potentially with Cadillac, the season hasn't gone his way at all.
Racing for Hitech GP, Herta is 17th with 26 points after 10 rounds, with a best result of fifth. The American is racing at F1's new Madring circuit in Madrid on Spanish GP weekend. He started it well in fourth. He was doing well in qualifying in the Top 10 for the most part.
However, he dropped to 12th in the end after he suffered a crash at Turn 19 to end the session. Following the day's run, just before Restricted Period One kicked in for F2 teams, Hitech GP found a problem with the American's car, which they started to work on.
Since it was a priority, they continued working into Restricted Period One and therefore were in breach of Article 21.6a of the F2 regulations. The technical delegate reported the matter, and the stewards duly penalised him with a pitlane start in Madrid's sprint race on Saturday.
#herta #madrid
2 months ago
Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE:CAG) faces a governance test alongside its turnaround. Reuters reported on September 7 that Institutional Shareholder Services, or ISS, recommended opposing executive compensation, citing weak financial performance and inadequately explained incentive targets.
The September 23 non-binding advisory vote covers fiscal 2026 named-executive compensation. It does not separately approve new CEO John Brase's package. Brase succeeded Sean Connolly on June 1, after fiscal 2026 ended, separating his compensation arrangements from the prior year's pay decisions.
The proxy lists Brase's annual base salary at $1.15 million, his annual incentive target at 150% of eligible salary, and annual long-term incentives of $7.3 million, split 60% into performance shares and 40% into restricted stock units. Incentive opportunities are not guaranteed realized pay.
Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE:CAG) needs executives willing to work through changes whose benefits may take several years to appear. Brase's priorities include restoring margins, investing in brands and the supply chain, simplifying operations, and rebalancing capital allocation.
A mix of performance awards and service-based equity can support that effort. Performance shares link rewards to results, while restricted units help retain leaders through disruption. Retention has value if it allows management to complete difficult changes instead of optimizing the next quarterly result.
#performance
The September 23 non-binding advisory vote covers fiscal 2026 named-executive compensation. It does not separately approve new CEO John Brase's package. Brase succeeded Sean Connolly on June 1, after fiscal 2026 ended, separating his compensation arrangements from the prior year's pay decisions.
The proxy lists Brase's annual base salary at $1.15 million, his annual incentive target at 150% of eligible salary, and annual long-term incentives of $7.3 million, split 60% into performance shares and 40% into restricted stock units. Incentive opportunities are not guaranteed realized pay.
Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE:CAG) needs executives willing to work through changes whose benefits may take several years to appear. Brase's priorities include restoring margins, investing in brands and the supply chain, simplifying operations, and rebalancing capital allocation.
A mix of performance awards and service-based equity can support that effort. Performance shares link rewards to results, while restricted units help retain leaders through disruption. Retention has value if it allows management to complete difficult changes instead of optimizing the next quarterly result.
#performance
2 months ago
Jalen Duren appears to be willing to bet on himself, with the Detroit Pistons unable to meet his contract demands before the end of September.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Duren is becoming more and more open to accepting his one-year, $9.6 million qualifying offer that would allow him to play the 2026-27 season and become an unrestricted free agent next offseason.
"The challenge Duren faces hasn't changed much since early July. He seeks a lucrative new five-year deal reflective of his leaps last season to All-Star and All-NBA status — playoff struggles be ******* ed — but there is no team in the marketplace with salary cap ******* e to make a run at Duren that exerts pressure on the Pistons to increase their offers."
"One source briefed on the process says Duren is increasingly prepared to play out the coming season on his $9.6 million qualifying offer — with the intent to become an unrestricted free agent next summer — if no deal with Detroit materializes by the end of September. That would be a risky route to go for a player who achieved what Duren achieved last season, and there will naturally be considerable skepticism that the 22-year-old is truly willing to go the qualifying offer route until it actually happens … but let's see how the rest of the month plays out."
That lack of outside leverage has become the center of this stalemate.
#year #become
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Duren is becoming more and more open to accepting his one-year, $9.6 million qualifying offer that would allow him to play the 2026-27 season and become an unrestricted free agent next offseason.
"The challenge Duren faces hasn't changed much since early July. He seeks a lucrative new five-year deal reflective of his leaps last season to All-Star and All-NBA status — playoff struggles be ******* ed — but there is no team in the marketplace with salary cap ******* e to make a run at Duren that exerts pressure on the Pistons to increase their offers."
"One source briefed on the process says Duren is increasingly prepared to play out the coming season on his $9.6 million qualifying offer — with the intent to become an unrestricted free agent next summer — if no deal with Detroit materializes by the end of September. That would be a risky route to go for a player who achieved what Duren achieved last season, and there will naturally be considerable skepticism that the 22-year-old is truly willing to go the qualifying offer route until it actually happens … but let's see how the rest of the month plays out."
That lack of outside leverage has become the center of this stalemate.
#year #become
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2 months ago
With training camp fast approaching, several Central Division teams still have a few questions to answer. Jalen Duren's contract situation is still unresolved in Detroit; Victor Oladipo has been seen as an option for the Chicago Bulls, and the Pistons are even connected to Michael Porter Jr. as a potential future trade target.
The biggest storyline ongoing is Duren's restricted free agency, but there appears to be a little more optimism about that agreement. The Athletic's Sam Amick reported that the financial difference between Duren and the Pistons isn't as big as it was previously believed.
"I mean, as far as the state of affairs, I don't know which way it's going to go. There is a gap. It's not as big as I thought it was before having a few recent conversations. It seems like there's, you know, there's a window here to get something done and put him back in a Pistons jersey."
"I think what's interesting is, like, the QO (qualifying offer) has become such a nuclear option for players and also for teams that it's fair to wonder, like, 'Man, if they can't completely bridge that gap, how do both sides feel about the QO?'" Amick continued. "Because, even from a human standpoint, we, as you guys know, haven't seen a lot of people successfully take that route."
Duren has been seeking more than $40 million a year, and the Pistons have been around $35 million per season. ESPN's Tim MacMahon recently put the Pistons' offer in the ballpark of $180 million over five years. The alternative is Duren accepting the $9.6 million qualifying offer and becoming an unrestricted free agent next season. This has been described as a nuclear option because of the risk it carries for both sides. The Kings do remain an interested party in a sign-and-trade possibility, or even a potential 2027 destination, because they can create the most max cap ******* e then, but the Pistons have reportedly had no interest in a sign-and-trade as of now.
#pistons #even
The biggest storyline ongoing is Duren's restricted free agency, but there appears to be a little more optimism about that agreement. The Athletic's Sam Amick reported that the financial difference between Duren and the Pistons isn't as big as it was previously believed.
"I mean, as far as the state of affairs, I don't know which way it's going to go. There is a gap. It's not as big as I thought it was before having a few recent conversations. It seems like there's, you know, there's a window here to get something done and put him back in a Pistons jersey."
"I think what's interesting is, like, the QO (qualifying offer) has become such a nuclear option for players and also for teams that it's fair to wonder, like, 'Man, if they can't completely bridge that gap, how do both sides feel about the QO?'" Amick continued. "Because, even from a human standpoint, we, as you guys know, haven't seen a lot of people successfully take that route."
Duren has been seeking more than $40 million a year, and the Pistons have been around $35 million per season. ESPN's Tim MacMahon recently put the Pistons' offer in the ballpark of $180 million over five years. The alternative is Duren accepting the $9.6 million qualifying offer and becoming an unrestricted free agent next season. This has been described as a nuclear option because of the risk it carries for both sides. The Kings do remain an interested party in a sign-and-trade possibility, or even a potential 2027 destination, because they can create the most max cap ******* e then, but the Pistons have reportedly had no interest in a sign-and-trade as of now.
#pistons #even
2 months ago
One of the bigger question marks entering Detroit Red Wings training camp is seemingly answered − for now, at least.
Defenseman Simon Edvinsson, a restricted free agent, intends to report to camp even if he doesn't have a new deal, according to a report from The Athletic hockey insider Pierre LeBrun. LeBrun goes on to say Edvinsson is "patiently waiting for the Red Wings GM situation to iron itself out before resuming negotiations."
Edvinsson had 25 points (nine goals) in 72 games played this past season and finished with a plus-12.
Edvinsson should see a huge payday. Bowen Byram, the No. 4 overall pick from 2019, just received an extension from the Blackhawks with a hefty $12.5 million cap hit. The Wings can ill afford Edvinsson (No. 6 pick in 2021) to be on the sidelines awaiting a new contract when their season begins, as he is one of their top workhorses.
But who will hammer out that deal? That still remains to be seen, as the Red Wings are about a week away from the start camp (Sept. 17) and they still do not have a general manager. Steve Yzerman parted ways from the position on July 15, moving into a senior advisor role.
#edvinsson #lebrun #still
Defenseman Simon Edvinsson, a restricted free agent, intends to report to camp even if he doesn't have a new deal, according to a report from The Athletic hockey insider Pierre LeBrun. LeBrun goes on to say Edvinsson is "patiently waiting for the Red Wings GM situation to iron itself out before resuming negotiations."
Edvinsson had 25 points (nine goals) in 72 games played this past season and finished with a plus-12.
Edvinsson should see a huge payday. Bowen Byram, the No. 4 overall pick from 2019, just received an extension from the Blackhawks with a hefty $12.5 million cap hit. The Wings can ill afford Edvinsson (No. 6 pick in 2021) to be on the sidelines awaiting a new contract when their season begins, as he is one of their top workhorses.
But who will hammer out that deal? That still remains to be seen, as the Red Wings are about a week away from the start camp (Sept. 17) and they still do not have a general manager. Steve Yzerman parted ways from the position on July 15, moving into a senior advisor role.
#edvinsson #lebrun #still
2 months ago
On August 6, Xponential Fitness (NYSE:XPOF) reported results for the second quarter ended June 30, and the numbers came in well short of where the boutique-fitness franchisor wanted to be. Revenue fell 13% year over year to $66 million, and the company swung to a net loss of $4.8 million after posting net income in the same period last year. CEO Mike Nuzzo said the quarter came in "below expectations." The bigger story sits in the outlook section, where the company trimmed nearly every full-year target it had set.
Despite the weak headline numbers, Xponential kept adding to its network. The company opened 67 gross new studios and sold 53 franchise licenses during the quarter, a sign that franchisee demand for its brands hasn't disappeared. North America system-wide sales held essentially flat at $437.3 million, which means new locations are offsetting some of the softness at existing studios rather than the whole system contracting. Even after cutting its 2026 targets, the company still expects to open roughly 150 net new studios for the year and generate North America system-wide sales of $1.7 billion to $1.75 billion. Full-year adjusted EBITDA guidance, while lowered, still points to $91 million to $97 million, meaning the business is still projected to be solidly profitable on that measure.
The details underneath the topline number are worse than the revenue decline alone suggests. North America same-store sales fell 6.8%, a sharp reversal from 2.4% growth in the same period a year earlier, and the quarterly run-rate average unit volume dropped to $659,000 from $686,000. Franchise revenue slipped 3% to $44 million on that same-store weakness plus brand divestitures completed in 2025, while equipment revenue dropped 26% to $7.1 million as fewer studio openings and license sales meant fewer installations. Merchandise revenue nearly vanished, falling 90% to $0.5 million as the company shifted from an in-house wholesale model to an outsourced retail arrangement, a transition it admitted came with its own challenges.
Costs moved the wrong direction too, with selling, general and administrative expenses up 33% to $32 million on higher legal expenses, and marketing fund expenses up 29% to $11.4 million. Adjusted EBITDA fell 22% to $21.9 million, and adjusted net income collapsed to $0.8 million from $14.5 million a year earlier. The balance sheet adds another concern, with just $25 million in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash against $522.4 million in total long-term debt, and $25.7 million in cash used in operating activities during the quarter. Management responded by cutting full-year revenue guidance to $250 million to $260 million, a 19% decline at the midpoint from 2025 and down from a prior forecast of $260 million to $270 million.
#million #quarter #north #sales
Despite the weak headline numbers, Xponential kept adding to its network. The company opened 67 gross new studios and sold 53 franchise licenses during the quarter, a sign that franchisee demand for its brands hasn't disappeared. North America system-wide sales held essentially flat at $437.3 million, which means new locations are offsetting some of the softness at existing studios rather than the whole system contracting. Even after cutting its 2026 targets, the company still expects to open roughly 150 net new studios for the year and generate North America system-wide sales of $1.7 billion to $1.75 billion. Full-year adjusted EBITDA guidance, while lowered, still points to $91 million to $97 million, meaning the business is still projected to be solidly profitable on that measure.
The details underneath the topline number are worse than the revenue decline alone suggests. North America same-store sales fell 6.8%, a sharp reversal from 2.4% growth in the same period a year earlier, and the quarterly run-rate average unit volume dropped to $659,000 from $686,000. Franchise revenue slipped 3% to $44 million on that same-store weakness plus brand divestitures completed in 2025, while equipment revenue dropped 26% to $7.1 million as fewer studio openings and license sales meant fewer installations. Merchandise revenue nearly vanished, falling 90% to $0.5 million as the company shifted from an in-house wholesale model to an outsourced retail arrangement, a transition it admitted came with its own challenges.
Costs moved the wrong direction too, with selling, general and administrative expenses up 33% to $32 million on higher legal expenses, and marketing fund expenses up 29% to $11.4 million. Adjusted EBITDA fell 22% to $21.9 million, and adjusted net income collapsed to $0.8 million from $14.5 million a year earlier. The balance sheet adds another concern, with just $25 million in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash against $522.4 million in total long-term debt, and $25.7 million in cash used in operating activities during the quarter. Management responded by cutting full-year revenue guidance to $250 million to $260 million, a 19% decline at the midpoint from 2025 and down from a prior forecast of $260 million to $270 million.
#million #quarter #north #sales
2 months ago
(Fixes typo in byline)
By Yasmine Ghania and Hatem Maher
DUBAI, Sept 7 (Reuters) - Iran said it will announce a new restricted zone in the Gulf in the coming days, along with maps of a new shipping corridor through the Strait of Hormuz, as a weekend exchange of strikes on shipping sent oil prices higher on Monday.
The new restricted zone will begin from where the U.S. blockade of Iran begins and extend into areas of the Gulf, Mohsen Rezaei, the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, said on Sunday in an interview with state TV.
Few details were provided on the plan, but Rezaei said any ship entering the new zone would be added to a sanctions list.
#gulf #hatem
By Yasmine Ghania and Hatem Maher
DUBAI, Sept 7 (Reuters) - Iran said it will announce a new restricted zone in the Gulf in the coming days, along with maps of a new shipping corridor through the Strait of Hormuz, as a weekend exchange of strikes on shipping sent oil prices higher on Monday.
The new restricted zone will begin from where the U.S. blockade of Iran begins and extend into areas of the Gulf, Mohsen Rezaei, the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, said on Sunday in an interview with state TV.
Few details were provided on the plan, but Rezaei said any ship entering the new zone would be added to a sanctions list.
#gulf #hatem
2 months ago
Pakistan's troubled England tour has taken another unexpected turn, with the Pakistan Cricket Board reportedly taking mobile phones belonging to members of the national team into its custody ahead of the third and final Test at Edgbaston.
According to Pakistani 365 News, the players' devices have been handed over to the PCB and will remain with the board until the conclusion of the final Test. The report did not reveal the identities of the players whose phones were taken, while the PCB has not publicly stated why the devices were placed in its custody.
The development has raised questions about the extent of the authorities' powers over players' personal devices, particularly regarding when phones can be seized, retained or accessed and what safeguards apply to private communications.
Mobile phones are already subject to strict restrictions in international cricket, particularly inside areas designated as restricted during matches.
Under the ICC's Player and Match Officials Area regulations, players and support staff are not permitted to possess or use mobile phones or other communication devices inside restricted areas, including dressing rooms, during an international match.
Players are expected to place their devices in secure storage before entering such areas. The primary purpose of these regulations is to protect the integrity of international matches and prevent unauthorised communication.
However, those match-day restrictions are separate from a situation in which a player's personal phone is retained for an extended period.
The ICC Anti-Corruption Code gives authorised anti-corruption officials considerably broader powers when a formal integrity investigation is underway.
Under the code, an authorised anti-corruption official can make a written demand requiring a participant to surrender a mobile device or allow investigators to copy or download information from it when there are reasonable grounds to believe the material could be relevant to an investigation.
The information potentially covered by such a request is wide-ranging. It can include telephone and internet records, text messages, WhatsApp conversations, photographs, videos, audio files and other electronically stored documents.
Participants can also be required to provide passwords or access codes needed by investigators to obtain the relevant material.
A failure to comply with a legitimate demand during an anti-corruption investigation can itself result in disciplinary action.
Despite the ICC's provisions, the reported decision by the PCB to take possession of the players' phones does not, by itself, establish that an anti-corruption investigation is taking place.
There has been no confirmation that the PCB's action in England is connected to an integrity investigation involving corruption, betting or match-fixing. No player has been publicly accused of an integrity offence either.
There is also a distinction between the ICC's jurisdic
According to Pakistani 365 News, the players' devices have been handed over to the PCB and will remain with the board until the conclusion of the final Test. The report did not reveal the identities of the players whose phones were taken, while the PCB has not publicly stated why the devices were placed in its custody.
The development has raised questions about the extent of the authorities' powers over players' personal devices, particularly regarding when phones can be seized, retained or accessed and what safeguards apply to private communications.
Mobile phones are already subject to strict restrictions in international cricket, particularly inside areas designated as restricted during matches.
Under the ICC's Player and Match Officials Area regulations, players and support staff are not permitted to possess or use mobile phones or other communication devices inside restricted areas, including dressing rooms, during an international match.
Players are expected to place their devices in secure storage before entering such areas. The primary purpose of these regulations is to protect the integrity of international matches and prevent unauthorised communication.
However, those match-day restrictions are separate from a situation in which a player's personal phone is retained for an extended period.
The ICC Anti-Corruption Code gives authorised anti-corruption officials considerably broader powers when a formal integrity investigation is underway.
Under the code, an authorised anti-corruption official can make a written demand requiring a participant to surrender a mobile device or allow investigators to copy or download information from it when there are reasonable grounds to believe the material could be relevant to an investigation.
The information potentially covered by such a request is wide-ranging. It can include telephone and internet records, text messages, WhatsApp conversations, photographs, videos, audio files and other electronically stored documents.
Participants can also be required to provide passwords or access codes needed by investigators to obtain the relevant material.
A failure to comply with a legitimate demand during an anti-corruption investigation can itself result in disciplinary action.
Despite the ICC's provisions, the reported decision by the PCB to take possession of the players' phones does not, by itself, establish that an anti-corruption investigation is taking place.
There has been no confirmation that the PCB's action in England is connected to an integrity investigation involving corruption, betting or match-fixing. No player has been publicly accused of an integrity offence either.
There is also a distinction between the ICC's jurisdic
2 months ago
On August 25, EPAM Systems (NYSE:EPAM) announced a partnership with Wiz, the cloud and AI security platform now owned by Google Cloud, joining the Wiz Partner Alliance to help large organizations turn cloud risk data into actual engineering fixes. The timing is notable. Just weeks earlier, on August 6, EPAM reported second-quarter revenue growth of only 4.5% and pointed to a much slower pace ahead. A cybersecurity push gives the company a fresh growth story just as its core business decelerates.
The Wiz deal pairs Wiz's AI Application Protection Platform with EPAM's AI-native engineering and cloud modernization work, aiming to move clients from simply spotting cloud risks to actually remediating them across Google Cloud, AWS, Azure, and other environments. White Hat, an EPAM company, adds an offensive security layer of defensive, offensive, and incident response specialists to test whether flaws found by Wiz are actually exploitable, rather than just theoretical. EPAM says this formalizes work already underway, having delivered Wiz implementation programs across six industries: media and entertainment, transportation and logistics, life sciences and healthcare, financial services, automotive, and retail and consumer goods. That existing footprint gives the partnership a running start rather than a cold launch.
The financial backdrop supports the case that EPAM has room to invest here. Second quarter GAAP income from operations rose to 10.8% of revenue from 9.3% a year earlier, while non-GAAP operating margin climbed to 16.4% from 15%. GAAP diluted EPS reached $1.97, up 26.3% year over year, and non-GAAP diluted EPS hit $3.38, up 22%. The company also returned $409 million to shareholders through buybacks in the first half of 2026, including $85 million in the second quarter alone.
The numbers behind the Wiz announcement tell a more cautious story. EPAM's full-year revenue growth guidance now sits at 3.2% to 4.2%, with organic constant currency growth pegged at just 2.0% to 3.0%. The third quarter outlook is softer still: revenue of $1.410 billion to $1.425 billion implies year-over-year growth of roughly 1.7% at the midpoint, a sharp step down from the 4.5% posted in the second quarter.
Cash flow moved in the wrong direction too. EPAM used $38.8 million in operating activities during the first half of 2026, compared with $77.4 million generated over the same period in 2025. Total cash, equivalents and restricted cash fell 39% to $794.3 million as of June 30, from $1.301 billion at the end of 2025, a decline driven in part by continued share repurchases. Headcount growth was modest as well, with delivery professionals up just 0.3% from the prior quarter, suggesting a company being deliberate rather than aggressive about scaling capacity even as it adds new service lines like Wiz implementation.
#epam #cloud #year #company
The Wiz deal pairs Wiz's AI Application Protection Platform with EPAM's AI-native engineering and cloud modernization work, aiming to move clients from simply spotting cloud risks to actually remediating them across Google Cloud, AWS, Azure, and other environments. White Hat, an EPAM company, adds an offensive security layer of defensive, offensive, and incident response specialists to test whether flaws found by Wiz are actually exploitable, rather than just theoretical. EPAM says this formalizes work already underway, having delivered Wiz implementation programs across six industries: media and entertainment, transportation and logistics, life sciences and healthcare, financial services, automotive, and retail and consumer goods. That existing footprint gives the partnership a running start rather than a cold launch.
The financial backdrop supports the case that EPAM has room to invest here. Second quarter GAAP income from operations rose to 10.8% of revenue from 9.3% a year earlier, while non-GAAP operating margin climbed to 16.4% from 15%. GAAP diluted EPS reached $1.97, up 26.3% year over year, and non-GAAP diluted EPS hit $3.38, up 22%. The company also returned $409 million to shareholders through buybacks in the first half of 2026, including $85 million in the second quarter alone.
The numbers behind the Wiz announcement tell a more cautious story. EPAM's full-year revenue growth guidance now sits at 3.2% to 4.2%, with organic constant currency growth pegged at just 2.0% to 3.0%. The third quarter outlook is softer still: revenue of $1.410 billion to $1.425 billion implies year-over-year growth of roughly 1.7% at the midpoint, a sharp step down from the 4.5% posted in the second quarter.
Cash flow moved in the wrong direction too. EPAM used $38.8 million in operating activities during the first half of 2026, compared with $77.4 million generated over the same period in 2025. Total cash, equivalents and restricted cash fell 39% to $794.3 million as of June 30, from $1.301 billion at the end of 2025, a decline driven in part by continued share repurchases. Headcount growth was modest as well, with delivery professionals up just 0.3% from the prior quarter, suggesting a company being deliberate rather than aggressive about scaling capacity even as it adds new service lines like Wiz implementation.
#epam #cloud #year #company
2 months ago
The Sacramento Kings' interest in Jalen Duren isn't going away, even if the Pistons have basically shut the door on a sign-and-trade for now. On the latest episode of ESPN's The Hoop Collective, Anthony Slater said GM Scott Perry has Duren's name "with highlighter pen" as a possible target, while also noting that Sacramento could create max cap ***** e next summer if Duren takes his $9.6 million qualifying offer and becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2027. The Kings already met with Duren earlier in free agency, so this isn't just random trade-machine talk.
The problem is Detroit. The Kings would like to sign-and-trade for Duren with Domantas Sabonis going the other way, per Tim MacMahon, but "that's not happening," because the Pistons have made it clear they aren't interested in moving their 22-year-old All-NBA center. Detroit reportedly wants Duren closer to $35.0 million per season, while his camp is looking for more than $40.0 million, and the Pistons still "absolutely, positively, 100%" intend to keep him despite that gap in "nasty" negotiations.
So if the Kings really want Duren now instead of waiting another year, Sabonis alone clearly isn't getting it done. They would need to make the return much bigger, probably bring in more teams to solve the salary issues, and give Detroit enough immediate talent and draft capital to at least reconsider its current position. This four-team framework with the Bucks and Raptors does exactly that, while landing Sacramento the young center they clearly want to build around.
Milwaukee Bucks Receive: Jakob Poeltl, Duncan Robinson, Ron Holland, 2027 second-round pick via Pistons, 2029 first-round pick via Raptors
Sacramento Kings Receive: Jalen Duren
#sacramento #pistons
The problem is Detroit. The Kings would like to sign-and-trade for Duren with Domantas Sabonis going the other way, per Tim MacMahon, but "that's not happening," because the Pistons have made it clear they aren't interested in moving their 22-year-old All-NBA center. Detroit reportedly wants Duren closer to $35.0 million per season, while his camp is looking for more than $40.0 million, and the Pistons still "absolutely, positively, 100%" intend to keep him despite that gap in "nasty" negotiations.
So if the Kings really want Duren now instead of waiting another year, Sabonis alone clearly isn't getting it done. They would need to make the return much bigger, probably bring in more teams to solve the salary issues, and give Detroit enough immediate talent and draft capital to at least reconsider its current position. This four-team framework with the Bucks and Raptors does exactly that, while landing Sacramento the young center they clearly want to build around.
Milwaukee Bucks Receive: Jakob Poeltl, Duncan Robinson, Ron Holland, 2027 second-round pick via Pistons, 2029 first-round pick via Raptors
Sacramento Kings Receive: Jalen Duren
#sacramento #pistons
2 months ago
While the Detroit Lions are preparing for the 2026 season, the latest NFL rumors project that the team could lose one player. According to Dan Graziano of ESPN, the Lions have committed more than $1 billion to star players, including running back Jahmyr Gibbs, which leaves veterans Brian Branch and Sam LaPorta fighting for new contracts this upcoming season. Graziano does not expect a new contract to materialize before Week 1, but Lions general manager Brad Holmes expresses his desire to keep all star players from the 2023 draft class, including LB Jack Campbell, for a "long time."
"We still want to keep those guys around; those plans haven't changed," Holmes said Wednesday, via Richard Silva of The Detroit News. "There's a couple factors that we've still got to sort through. But in terms of us wanting those guys around? Absolutely. Hopefully, we can get that done."
"Hopefully" is a strong word for the Lions. Detroit is walking into the season without triggering new deals for Branch or LaPorta, who are both coming off season-ending injuries. Both are also set to become unrestricted free agents next offseason.
Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta (87) makes a catch against Washington Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu (4) during the first half at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Md. on Sunday, November 9, 2025.
Unfortunately, it will probably come down to who can stay healthier and make an immediate impact this upcoming campaign. After all, Branch and LaPorta have proven to be top-5 athletes when healthy. However, the former second-round pick and 2024 Pro Bowl safety may have an edge here. The Lions were forced to release cornerback Terrion Arnold this offseason due to the latest investigation, and if they give up another elite secondary threat, it could become detrimental to the team's defense.
#lions #detroit #season #latest
"We still want to keep those guys around; those plans haven't changed," Holmes said Wednesday, via Richard Silva of The Detroit News. "There's a couple factors that we've still got to sort through. But in terms of us wanting those guys around? Absolutely. Hopefully, we can get that done."
"Hopefully" is a strong word for the Lions. Detroit is walking into the season without triggering new deals for Branch or LaPorta, who are both coming off season-ending injuries. Both are also set to become unrestricted free agents next offseason.
Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta (87) makes a catch against Washington Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu (4) during the first half at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Md. on Sunday, November 9, 2025.
Unfortunately, it will probably come down to who can stay healthier and make an immediate impact this upcoming campaign. After all, Branch and LaPorta have proven to be top-5 athletes when healthy. However, the former second-round pick and 2024 Pro Bowl safety may have an edge here. The Lions were forced to release cornerback Terrion Arnold this offseason due to the latest investigation, and if they give up another elite secondary threat, it could become detrimental to the team's defense.
#lions #detroit #season #latest
2 months ago
How George Pickens could have a 'massive opportunity' that would hurt the Cowboys originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Dallas Cowboys elected not to sign George Pickens to a long-term contract extension this offseason, instead franchise tagging him at a $27.3 million mark.
But looking at next offseason, the Cowboys will either have to sign him to a long-term deal or franchise tag him for a massive $32 million-plus one-year contract.
ESPN's Bill Barnwell doesn't believe the Cowboys will have interest in such a lofty one-year deal. If so, Pickens has a massive opportunity in 2026 to have another big season and hit free agency to land a massive new deal.
"The Cowboys spent heavily to fix their defense this offseason, and they might not be interested in a second franchise tag for Pickens in 2027, which would cost more than $32 million," Barnwell writes. "Hitting unrestricted free agency as a 26-year-old wide receiver could be a massive opportunity for Pickens, who would potentially be the best player available."
#cowboys #massive #Opportunity #offseason
The Dallas Cowboys elected not to sign George Pickens to a long-term contract extension this offseason, instead franchise tagging him at a $27.3 million mark.
But looking at next offseason, the Cowboys will either have to sign him to a long-term deal or franchise tag him for a massive $32 million-plus one-year contract.
ESPN's Bill Barnwell doesn't believe the Cowboys will have interest in such a lofty one-year deal. If so, Pickens has a massive opportunity in 2026 to have another big season and hit free agency to land a massive new deal.
"The Cowboys spent heavily to fix their defense this offseason, and they might not be interested in a second franchise tag for Pickens in 2027, which would cost more than $32 million," Barnwell writes. "Hitting unrestricted free agency as a 26-year-old wide receiver could be a massive opportunity for Pickens, who would potentially be the best player available."
#cowboys #massive #Opportunity #offseason
2 months ago
The Dallas Mavericks are expected to have Kyrie Irving back after he missed the entire 2025-26 campaign because of a torn ACL, and Dirk Nowitzki is among those excited to see the 34-year-old guard again soon.
In a recent interview with WFAA's Joe Trahan, Nowitzki strongly believes Irving's return will address the Dallas Mavericks' Achilles heel last season – the point guard position. The one-time NBA champion is also interested in how Irving will play alongside franchise cornerstone Cooper Flagg.
Nov 22, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg (32) looks back at guard Kyrie Irving (left) during the second half against the Memphis Grizzlies at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
"The most exciting thing is, on the court, what struggled last year for the Mavs were the point guard position. And now you have one of the all-time greats coming back with Kyrie. He had a year off. He should be ready. He should be excited. He watched Cooper for a year, so I'm sure in his head, he has a plan on how they're going to play off each other," Nowitzki stated.
Irving is entering his contract year with the Dallas Mavericks, where he'll earn around $39.5 million, and the 34-year-old guard can exercise his $42.4 million player option in the summer of 2027 (or become an unrestricted free agent).
#irving #back
In a recent interview with WFAA's Joe Trahan, Nowitzki strongly believes Irving's return will address the Dallas Mavericks' Achilles heel last season – the point guard position. The one-time NBA champion is also interested in how Irving will play alongside franchise cornerstone Cooper Flagg.
Nov 22, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg (32) looks back at guard Kyrie Irving (left) during the second half against the Memphis Grizzlies at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
"The most exciting thing is, on the court, what struggled last year for the Mavs were the point guard position. And now you have one of the all-time greats coming back with Kyrie. He had a year off. He should be ready. He should be excited. He watched Cooper for a year, so I'm sure in his head, he has a plan on how they're going to play off each other," Nowitzki stated.
Irving is entering his contract year with the Dallas Mavericks, where he'll earn around $39.5 million, and the 34-year-old guard can exercise his $42.4 million player option in the summer of 2027 (or become an unrestricted free agent).
#irving #back
2 months ago
The husband of a renowned ballroom dancer who needs 24/7 care after suffering a stroke said her first trip to the hairdressers since she fell ill had been a welcome "distraction".
Jane Bullock, who coached professionals for the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, collapsed at her Wolverhampton home on 10 August 2025, after she finished teaching a class.
As a result, the once fit and healthy dancer lost half her sight and all the movement on the left side of her body, meaning she is often restricted to her bed.
Her husband Warren said her life had "completely changed" and it had been a difficult time for both of them.
"As time goes on, you start to have a realisation and accept some things, but other things she can't accept," he said.
#things #jane #come
Jane Bullock, who coached professionals for the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, collapsed at her Wolverhampton home on 10 August 2025, after she finished teaching a class.
As a result, the once fit and healthy dancer lost half her sight and all the movement on the left side of her body, meaning she is often restricted to her bed.
Her husband Warren said her life had "completely changed" and it had been a difficult time for both of them.
"As time goes on, you start to have a realisation and accept some things, but other things she can't accept," he said.
#things #jane #come
2 months ago
Shaq Thompson is back with the Buffalo Bills.
Not that he ever really went anywhere.
The Bills signed the veteran linebacker to their practice squad Monday after Thompson spent the entire offseason as an unrestricted free agent.
"I wanted to be a Bill. I wanted to play football. I wanted to be around these guys," Thompson said on Tuesday. "When you come to work everyday and everybody has the same mindset... They make work fun. They make the building fun. Atmosphere is fun.
"Just brothers. It's more than just football players coming together. It's a true family here."
#work
Not that he ever really went anywhere.
The Bills signed the veteran linebacker to their practice squad Monday after Thompson spent the entire offseason as an unrestricted free agent.
"I wanted to be a Bill. I wanted to play football. I wanted to be around these guys," Thompson said on Tuesday. "When you come to work everyday and everybody has the same mindset... They make work fun. They make the building fun. Atmosphere is fun.
"Just brothers. It's more than just football players coming together. It's a true family here."
#work
2 months ago
The Detroit Pistons keep having trouble with the Jalen Duren contract situation, which has dragged on much longer than I initially expected once no other team could throw him a deal in restricted free agency.
ESPN's Tim MacMahon reported that the gap is still pretty clear: Detroit has been offering Duren a five-year contract around $35.0 million per season, while Duren wants an average salary above $40.0 million. Training camp opens later this month, and Duren can still take his $9.6 million qualifying offer and become an unrestricted free agent next summer, so this isn't something Detroit can simply wait and see what happens.
I still think Duren stays with the Pistons; there is too much sense for both sides to keep the partnership going, especially after he averaged 19.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.0 ******* ists on 65.0% from the field, became an All-Star and made All-NBA Third Team for a 60-22 team. But Detroit also traded Isaiah Stewart to the Grizzlies this summer, and that left them without the type of proven backup center they had last season.
That is why I would call the Dallas Mavericks about Daniel Gafford. Of course, he wouldn't replace Duren immediately, because that shouldn't be Detroit's plan, but he could give the Pistons one of the best backup centers in basketball right now, and if this Duren situation somehow becomes a sign-and-trade later, Detroit wouldn't suddenly enter the season without a starting center.
More importantly, his game fits Cade Cunningham in probably the easiest way possible: screen, roll, catch the lob, finish, protect the rim, repeat.
#season #situation
ESPN's Tim MacMahon reported that the gap is still pretty clear: Detroit has been offering Duren a five-year contract around $35.0 million per season, while Duren wants an average salary above $40.0 million. Training camp opens later this month, and Duren can still take his $9.6 million qualifying offer and become an unrestricted free agent next summer, so this isn't something Detroit can simply wait and see what happens.
I still think Duren stays with the Pistons; there is too much sense for both sides to keep the partnership going, especially after he averaged 19.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.0 ******* ists on 65.0% from the field, became an All-Star and made All-NBA Third Team for a 60-22 team. But Detroit also traded Isaiah Stewart to the Grizzlies this summer, and that left them without the type of proven backup center they had last season.
That is why I would call the Dallas Mavericks about Daniel Gafford. Of course, he wouldn't replace Duren immediately, because that shouldn't be Detroit's plan, but he could give the Pistons one of the best backup centers in basketball right now, and if this Duren situation somehow becomes a sign-and-trade later, Detroit wouldn't suddenly enter the season without a starting center.
More importantly, his game fits Cade Cunningham in probably the easiest way possible: screen, roll, catch the lob, finish, protect the rim, repeat.
#season #situation
2 months ago
The Diamondbacks won the series against the Phillies on the East coast, but all three games there were decided by one run. Tonight's game at Chase Field was just as close, neither side exactly taking advantage of their scoring opportunities. Arizona and Philadelphia combined to go 1-for-15 with runners in scoring position. But it was the "1" which proved the difference maker, Bryce Harper's RBI double off the outfield wall turning out to be enough. It gave D-backs' pitcher Brandon Pfaadt his first loss since April 11th, ending his streak of unbeaten starts at ten, though it was definitely a tough loss.
Of course, the major storyline tonight was the return of Ketel Marte to the Diamondbacks' line-up. It came after ten days on the Injured List for a knee issue, and a few more on the Restricted List after he failed to show up at Fenway Park for a game. How would he be greeted by the fans at Chase? Listening at home, it seemed a genuinely mixed greeting, but reporting from the ballpark, Jack said, "Many more booing than cheering, booers were louder, and booed again as he grounded out." However, the reception for his subsequent at-bats seemed to be kinder. Maybe it's like family: you can't stay angry at them forever. You still have to live with them, after all.
In the end, Marte went 1-for-3 with a walk (we'll cycle back to that later). Hopefully, this entire situation is something the team can now put behind them for now, and just concentrate on the battle for a wild-card spot. Regardless of what does (or does not) happen in the off-season, the month of September is something which deserves absolute focus and commitment from everyone on the roster the rest of the way. Hopefully, it shouldn't be too hard for everyone to pull in the same direction over the remaining games. Except in the absence of a relapse, I'm inclined to draw a line under everything for the balance of this season. So, moving on…
After a pair of 1-2-3 innings in the first, the Phillies took the lead with one out in the second. It came on an absolute monster shot by Bryson Stott off Pfaadt, estimated at 464 feet. That's the second-longest hit at Chase Field this year, trailing only a ringworm-powered one which went one foot longer. It was also the third-longest allowed by Pfaadt at Chase, the record belonging to a 472 footer by Oneil Cruz. In case you're wondering, in the Statcast era, the record is a Franchy Cordero blast in 2018 off Matt Koch, tracked at 489 feet. Of course, like the blast tonight, it still only counted as one, the Stott shot giving Philadelphia a 1-0 lead.
They were then able to double their tally in the third, though things could have been a lot worse. A single and a walk started the inning, then Harper's double with one out put two in scoring position. Luis Arraez did Luis Arraez things, putting the ball in play. However, it was firmly hit to Ildemaro Vargas, who came home for Gabriel Moreno to apply the tag at home for the second out. Pfaadt was able to esca
Of course, the major storyline tonight was the return of Ketel Marte to the Diamondbacks' line-up. It came after ten days on the Injured List for a knee issue, and a few more on the Restricted List after he failed to show up at Fenway Park for a game. How would he be greeted by the fans at Chase? Listening at home, it seemed a genuinely mixed greeting, but reporting from the ballpark, Jack said, "Many more booing than cheering, booers were louder, and booed again as he grounded out." However, the reception for his subsequent at-bats seemed to be kinder. Maybe it's like family: you can't stay angry at them forever. You still have to live with them, after all.
In the end, Marte went 1-for-3 with a walk (we'll cycle back to that later). Hopefully, this entire situation is something the team can now put behind them for now, and just concentrate on the battle for a wild-card spot. Regardless of what does (or does not) happen in the off-season, the month of September is something which deserves absolute focus and commitment from everyone on the roster the rest of the way. Hopefully, it shouldn't be too hard for everyone to pull in the same direction over the remaining games. Except in the absence of a relapse, I'm inclined to draw a line under everything for the balance of this season. So, moving on…
After a pair of 1-2-3 innings in the first, the Phillies took the lead with one out in the second. It came on an absolute monster shot by Bryson Stott off Pfaadt, estimated at 464 feet. That's the second-longest hit at Chase Field this year, trailing only a ringworm-powered one which went one foot longer. It was also the third-longest allowed by Pfaadt at Chase, the record belonging to a 472 footer by Oneil Cruz. In case you're wondering, in the Statcast era, the record is a Franchy Cordero blast in 2018 off Matt Koch, tracked at 489 feet. Of course, like the blast tonight, it still only counted as one, the Stott shot giving Philadelphia a 1-0 lead.
They were then able to double their tally in the third, though things could have been a lot worse. A single and a walk started the inning, then Harper's double with one out put two in scoring position. Luis Arraez did Luis Arraez things, putting the ball in play. However, it was firmly hit to Ildemaro Vargas, who came home for Gabriel Moreno to apply the tag at home for the second out. Pfaadt was able to esca
