13 days ago
CHENNAI: The road to the World Test Championship (WTC) final for India is getting tougher, with every series carrying greater significance. The task has become even more challenging after they failed to win the final Test against Sri Lanka recently.
India's next step takes them to New Zealand for a two-Test series, having not won there in a decade and a half. NZ's premier left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner, who is leading Edinburgh Castle Rockers in the ongoing European T20 Premier League (ETPL), told TOI in an exclusive chat that India's pace attack, led by Jasprit ***** rah, will play a major role in the final outcome of the series. Excerpts...
How crucial will it be for India to adapt to conditions given only a few players from the current set-up have played Tests in NZ?
The first thing is to try and understand the conditions as quickly as possible. A few players have been there before and done well. In Oct-Nov, the pitches can play differently compared to Feb-March. So, early in the season in New Zealand, the ball might move around a little bit. It is about getting your head around that.
What's your take on India's pace attack?
Bumrah leading the attack and being able to nip and swing the ball will hold the key. (Mohammed) Siraj has done it for a long time as well and (Prasidh) Krishna is obviously bowling well. There is a lot of variety, which is what you need.
Did you have a look at Manav Suthar?
He has been very impressive since he made his debut. He gets nice and tight to the stumps and gets good shape on the ball. He does bowl with good overspin when he needs to and that is the key in NZ, trying to get a bit of bounce especially if there is grass. I think there is still a role for a spinner in NZ, especially in Tests alongside the quicks, whether it is first or second innings when the pitch might be holding up. On days four and five, it could spin a bit. Whether it is Jadeja or Suthar, both are very good options.
What do you think about India's struggles in Test cricket recently?
I think it has always been a challenge. They always play the best teams, and then having to adapt to the conditions quickly is the main thing. But they have got all bases covered.
How important is ETPL for the European players, who don't always get to play a lot of top-quality cricket?
It is perfect for Scottish, Irish and players from Holland. It gives them more exposure and opportunity to play against some good players. We have seen how good they are in their own right. To be fair, in the last few years, we have had some great games against Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands. You throw a few overseas players in, and the tournament (ETPL) is really strong.
There is some great cricket on show already, which is good. And we are only halfway through.
#players
India's next step takes them to New Zealand for a two-Test series, having not won there in a decade and a half. NZ's premier left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner, who is leading Edinburgh Castle Rockers in the ongoing European T20 Premier League (ETPL), told TOI in an exclusive chat that India's pace attack, led by Jasprit ***** rah, will play a major role in the final outcome of the series. Excerpts...
How crucial will it be for India to adapt to conditions given only a few players from the current set-up have played Tests in NZ?
The first thing is to try and understand the conditions as quickly as possible. A few players have been there before and done well. In Oct-Nov, the pitches can play differently compared to Feb-March. So, early in the season in New Zealand, the ball might move around a little bit. It is about getting your head around that.
What's your take on India's pace attack?
Bumrah leading the attack and being able to nip and swing the ball will hold the key. (Mohammed) Siraj has done it for a long time as well and (Prasidh) Krishna is obviously bowling well. There is a lot of variety, which is what you need.
Did you have a look at Manav Suthar?
He has been very impressive since he made his debut. He gets nice and tight to the stumps and gets good shape on the ball. He does bowl with good overspin when he needs to and that is the key in NZ, trying to get a bit of bounce especially if there is grass. I think there is still a role for a spinner in NZ, especially in Tests alongside the quicks, whether it is first or second innings when the pitch might be holding up. On days four and five, it could spin a bit. Whether it is Jadeja or Suthar, both are very good options.
What do you think about India's struggles in Test cricket recently?
I think it has always been a challenge. They always play the best teams, and then having to adapt to the conditions quickly is the main thing. But they have got all bases covered.
How important is ETPL for the European players, who don't always get to play a lot of top-quality cricket?
It is perfect for Scottish, Irish and players from Holland. It gives them more exposure and opportunity to play against some good players. We have seen how good they are in their own right. To be fair, in the last few years, we have had some great games against Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands. You throw a few overseas players in, and the tournament (ETPL) is really strong.
There is some great cricket on show already, which is good. And we are only halfway through.
#players
13 days ago
Kelly Osbourne said in a new interview that she realized she was unwell when she saw a photo of herself at a dress fitting.
The reality TV star said her grief over father Ozzy's death left her in "so much pain."
Rocker Ozzy Osbourne died in July 2025.
Kelly Osbourne was alarmed when she saw a photo of herself at a dress fitting ahead of this year's Grammy Awards.
"I looked like the f---ing Crypt Keeper," Osbourne told The Mail on Sunday. "I said, 'This is scary. I didn't know I looked like this.' My spine — you could see every single bone."
#july
The reality TV star said her grief over father Ozzy's death left her in "so much pain."
Rocker Ozzy Osbourne died in July 2025.
Kelly Osbourne was alarmed when she saw a photo of herself at a dress fitting ahead of this year's Grammy Awards.
"I looked like the f---ing Crypt Keeper," Osbourne told The Mail on Sunday. "I said, 'This is scary. I didn't know I looked like this.' My spine — you could see every single bone."
#july
13 days ago
Jack Osbourne's connection with his late dad Ozzy Osbourne remains strong even after the rocker's death
During his appearance on Good Night with Ben Gleib, the Black Sabbath frontman's son, 40, opened up about receiving subtle messages from his dad, who died in July 2025 at 76 years old
Jack shared how his father has shown up for him recently, one year after his death
Jack Osbourne's connection with his late dad Ozzy Osbourne remains strong.
During his appearance on Good Night with Ben Gleib, the Black Sabbath frontman's son, 40, opened up about receiving subtle messages from his dad, who died in July 2025 at 76 years old. Jack shared how his father has shown up for him recently a year after his death.
#gleib #sabbath
During his appearance on Good Night with Ben Gleib, the Black Sabbath frontman's son, 40, opened up about receiving subtle messages from his dad, who died in July 2025 at 76 years old
Jack shared how his father has shown up for him recently, one year after his death
Jack Osbourne's connection with his late dad Ozzy Osbourne remains strong.
During his appearance on Good Night with Ben Gleib, the Black Sabbath frontman's son, 40, opened up about receiving subtle messages from his dad, who died in July 2025 at 76 years old. Jack shared how his father has shown up for him recently a year after his death.
#gleib #sabbath
17 days ago
Paddy Donovan insists he is not "underestimating" Tyrone McKenna before they meet at Croke Park on Saturday with a second crack at world honours on the horizon.
Donovan bounced back from his first ******* le defeat by Lewis Crocker with an impressive victory over Karen Chukhadzhian in May to return to the mandatory slot for the IBF welterweight ******* le held by Australia's Liam Paro.
The Limerick man is aware of the risks in taking a fight in the interim, but felt this was too good an opportunity to turn down and plans to put on a show to elevate his status.
He and McKenna have sparred countless rounds over the years and the 27-year-old, whose record is 15 wins with two defeats, feels he is a level above his fellow southpaw.
"It's risky to take the fight being number one with the IBF but I couldn't turn down the opportunity to fight in front of 80,000 Irish fans," Donovan said at Thursday's news conference.
#title #Opportunity #tyrone
Donovan bounced back from his first ******* le defeat by Lewis Crocker with an impressive victory over Karen Chukhadzhian in May to return to the mandatory slot for the IBF welterweight ******* le held by Australia's Liam Paro.
The Limerick man is aware of the risks in taking a fight in the interim, but felt this was too good an opportunity to turn down and plans to put on a show to elevate his status.
He and McKenna have sparred countless rounds over the years and the 27-year-old, whose record is 15 wins with two defeats, feels he is a level above his fellow southpaw.
"It's risky to take the fight being number one with the IBF but I couldn't turn down the opportunity to fight in front of 80,000 Irish fans," Donovan said at Thursday's news conference.
#title #Opportunity #tyrone
18 days ago
Kelly Osbourne has shared an update on her mental and physical health following the death of her father and intense public scrutiny over her appearance.
Osbourne has admitted that she was struggling following the death of her father, rocker Ozzy Osbourne, in July 2025.
"I didn't navigate it – I wasn't well," Osbourne told ******* o!. "How can you navigate something so cruel when you're so sick? I'm getting a lot better. I've got all the help I need and I'm grateful for the support I have in my life."
The 41-year-old said she's doing better now, over a year later, but added that healing isn't linear and her physical and mental health are "not going to be fixed in a day."
"It's one foot in front of the other," she told the publication. "You've got to fix the head before you can fix the body. It's a slow process. It's going to take me a minute. I'm not going to be fixed in a day. I'm not going to be fixed on one therapy session. This is a lifetime of work I've got to do and continue to do for the rest of my life.
#Health #father
Osbourne has admitted that she was struggling following the death of her father, rocker Ozzy Osbourne, in July 2025.
"I didn't navigate it – I wasn't well," Osbourne told ******* o!. "How can you navigate something so cruel when you're so sick? I'm getting a lot better. I've got all the help I need and I'm grateful for the support I have in my life."
The 41-year-old said she's doing better now, over a year later, but added that healing isn't linear and her physical and mental health are "not going to be fixed in a day."
"It's one foot in front of the other," she told the publication. "You've got to fix the head before you can fix the body. It's a slow process. It's going to take me a minute. I'm not going to be fixed in a day. I'm not going to be fixed on one therapy session. This is a lifetime of work I've got to do and continue to do for the rest of my life.
#Health #father
18 days ago
Kelly Osbourne said it's "great to be home" after moving from Los Angeles back to the U.K.
An ache for home and the rising rates of gun violence in the United States both pushed her to make the change
Kelly's comments come just over a year after her father, late Black Sabbath lead singer Ozzy Osbourne, died at age 76
Kelly Osbourne is happy to be back home after making the move from Los Angeles to the United Kingdom.
The singer and daughter of the late rocker Ozzy Osbourne traded the American West Coast for the English countryside, and in an interview with ******* o! magazine, she opened up about her transatlantic journey back home.
#osbourne #back #angeles #states
An ache for home and the rising rates of gun violence in the United States both pushed her to make the change
Kelly's comments come just over a year after her father, late Black Sabbath lead singer Ozzy Osbourne, died at age 76
Kelly Osbourne is happy to be back home after making the move from Los Angeles to the United Kingdom.
The singer and daughter of the late rocker Ozzy Osbourne traded the American West Coast for the English countryside, and in an interview with ******* o! magazine, she opened up about her transatlantic journey back home.
#osbourne #back #angeles #states
18 days ago
Sean Ono Lennon has his own "little darling" now.
The Grammy-winning musician, son of Beatles rocker John Lennon and singer-songwriter Yoko Ono, revealed he welcomed his first child with partner Charlotte Kemp Muhl in a social media post Tuesday, Sept. 1.
Sean Lennon, 50, shared a photo of the couple cradling their newborn son, who was dressed in a striped, black-and-white onesie. The birth also marks the first grandchild for the late John Lennon, who was fatally shot in 1980. Ono has two grandchildren from her daughter, Kyoko Chan ******* , whom she had with film producer Anthony ******* .
"[Charlotte] and I have created a human bean!" Sean Lennon captioned the post. "His name is Aurelius! Thank you!"
Sean Lennon met Muhl, a musician and model, in 2005 while attending the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. The couple started dating in 2007, according to People magazine. The pair have collaborated on several musical projects over the years, including the psychedelic pop band The Ghost of a Saber Tooth Tiger.
#john
The Grammy-winning musician, son of Beatles rocker John Lennon and singer-songwriter Yoko Ono, revealed he welcomed his first child with partner Charlotte Kemp Muhl in a social media post Tuesday, Sept. 1.
Sean Lennon, 50, shared a photo of the couple cradling their newborn son, who was dressed in a striped, black-and-white onesie. The birth also marks the first grandchild for the late John Lennon, who was fatally shot in 1980. Ono has two grandchildren from her daughter, Kyoko Chan ******* , whom she had with film producer Anthony ******* .
"[Charlotte] and I have created a human bean!" Sean Lennon captioned the post. "His name is Aurelius! Thank you!"
Sean Lennon met Muhl, a musician and model, in 2005 while attending the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. The couple started dating in 2007, according to People magazine. The pair have collaborated on several musical projects over the years, including the psychedelic pop band The Ghost of a Saber Tooth Tiger.
#john
20 days ago
Kelly Osbourne is embracing country life and focusing on being a mom to her son Sidney
Jack Osbourne shared that Kelly is in a happier place and has established a good routine
A source confirmed Kelly and Sid Wilson split after months of challenges and differing priorities
Kelly Osbourne is putting herself first.
Weeks after PEOPLE confirmed that Kelly and Slipknot rocker Sid Wilson called off their engagement, Jack Osbourne has shared an update on Kelly's current state.
#osbourne #shared #people
Jack Osbourne shared that Kelly is in a happier place and has established a good routine
A source confirmed Kelly and Sid Wilson split after months of challenges and differing priorities
Kelly Osbourne is putting herself first.
Weeks after PEOPLE confirmed that Kelly and Slipknot rocker Sid Wilson called off their engagement, Jack Osbourne has shared an update on Kelly's current state.
#osbourne #shared #people
1 month ago
College football's opening kickoff lies just beyond the horizon as teams across the country prepare for the 2026 edition of the gridiron grind.
Ahead of the first matchup of the fall on Sunday, Aug. 29, between UNC and TCU in Dublin, Ireland, CBS Sports writer Blake Brockermeyer put together his ranking of the top 150 players in the sport — a list that included three Florida Gators.
"My goal for the last few years has been simple: Identify the 150 best players in college football entering the 2026 season and the value they bring to their teams," he stated.
So who cracked the list for the Orange and Blue? Checking in at No. 41 is junior running back Jadan Baugh, who is one of the best backs in the SEC, if not the country. Also included at No. 78 is senior wide receiver Eric Singleton Jr., who arrived in Gainesville via the transfer portal during the offseason and adds a speedy dynamic to the receiver corps.
The third Gator to land among the top 150 players in the nation at No. 126 is junior linebacker Myles Graham, who was named to the **** Butkus Award Preseason Watch List as well as the Wuerffel Trophy Watch List this summer.
#receiver
Ahead of the first matchup of the fall on Sunday, Aug. 29, between UNC and TCU in Dublin, Ireland, CBS Sports writer Blake Brockermeyer put together his ranking of the top 150 players in the sport — a list that included three Florida Gators.
"My goal for the last few years has been simple: Identify the 150 best players in college football entering the 2026 season and the value they bring to their teams," he stated.
So who cracked the list for the Orange and Blue? Checking in at No. 41 is junior running back Jadan Baugh, who is one of the best backs in the SEC, if not the country. Also included at No. 78 is senior wide receiver Eric Singleton Jr., who arrived in Gainesville via the transfer portal during the offseason and adds a speedy dynamic to the receiver corps.
The third Gator to land among the top 150 players in the nation at No. 126 is junior linebacker Myles Graham, who was named to the **** Butkus Award Preseason Watch List as well as the Wuerffel Trophy Watch List this summer.
#receiver
1 month ago
Texas Rangers lineup for August 14, 2026 against the A's: starting pitchers are ****** ar Rocker for the Rangers and Gage Jump for the A's.
Texas will try to get the Angels funk off of them and break their three game losing streak. There's a lefty going so the Rangers have the righty-heavy lineup out. ****** ar Rocker will hopefully cover first base tonight if the occasion demands it.
The lineup:
Langford — LF
Nimmo — RF
#texas #kumar #rocker #langford
Texas will try to get the Angels funk off of them and break their three game losing streak. There's a lefty going so the Rangers have the righty-heavy lineup out. ****** ar Rocker will hopefully cover first base tonight if the occasion demands it.
The lineup:
Langford — LF
Nimmo — RF
#texas #kumar #rocker #langford
1 month ago
Picking a name for a new professional sports team is tricky. You want to do something creative, but also tie into the fabric of the city. Cleveland's new WNBA team tried to do that when they unveiled their name as the Sirens. And according to those we surveyed, they were successful.
Earlier this week, we asked people to grade the name of the Sirens. Almost two-thirds of those surveyed gave the new team name either an "A" or "B" grade, with 39% giving it an "A."
It's worth pointing out that 21% gave the Sirens name a "D" or an "F" grade.
Doing something new and creative is a risk. Resurrecting a name like the Rockers or one that ties closely into the Cleveland Cavaliers would've been safer. It shouldn't come as a surprise that there were a number of people who didn't like the bold choice.
Overall, it's hard to criticize the Cleveland WNBA team for their brand rollout. They've done an excellent job of messaging their position and explaining why they went in this direction. They've made it clear that they want to be their own team, separate from the Cavs. And they've done that in an interesting and creative way.
#cleveland
Earlier this week, we asked people to grade the name of the Sirens. Almost two-thirds of those surveyed gave the new team name either an "A" or "B" grade, with 39% giving it an "A."
It's worth pointing out that 21% gave the Sirens name a "D" or an "F" grade.
Doing something new and creative is a risk. Resurrecting a name like the Rockers or one that ties closely into the Cleveland Cavaliers would've been safer. It shouldn't come as a surprise that there were a number of people who didn't like the bold choice.
Overall, it's hard to criticize the Cleveland WNBA team for their brand rollout. They've done an excellent job of messaging their position and explaining why they went in this direction. They've made it clear that they want to be their own team, separate from the Cavs. And they've done that in an interesting and creative way.
#cleveland
1 month ago
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Cavaliers fans and fans across the country.
We're still just under two years out from tip-off, but we do finally have a name for Cleveland's WNBA expansion franchise. The Cleveland Sirens will be the newest professional sports team coming to Cleveland.
The new WNBA team decided to forge its own path with this branding. Instead of using the name of Cleveland's previous teams, the Rockers, or tying their identity closely to the NBA team, as we've seen with the Minnesota Lynx, Washington Mystics, etc., the Sirens are going ahead with something completely new and original. Their all blue logo and word marks are distinct in a city with a storied professional sports history.
Distinct and unique doesn't always mean great. While I personally like the direction that the team is heading, I would understand if you thought otherwise. Casting aside tradition — even one that wasn't necessarily great — is always a risky move. It would've been easier to just resurrect the Rockers' name and just update the logo and uniform.
It also would've been just as easy to tie the team to the Cavs — similar to what we saw with the G League team, the Cleveland Charge. There is some value in tying all these related professional basketball teams together. Especially one that will be playing in the same arena as the Cavs.
#cleveland
We're still just under two years out from tip-off, but we do finally have a name for Cleveland's WNBA expansion franchise. The Cleveland Sirens will be the newest professional sports team coming to Cleveland.
The new WNBA team decided to forge its own path with this branding. Instead of using the name of Cleveland's previous teams, the Rockers, or tying their identity closely to the NBA team, as we've seen with the Minnesota Lynx, Washington Mystics, etc., the Sirens are going ahead with something completely new and original. Their all blue logo and word marks are distinct in a city with a storied professional sports history.
Distinct and unique doesn't always mean great. While I personally like the direction that the team is heading, I would understand if you thought otherwise. Casting aside tradition — even one that wasn't necessarily great — is always a risky move. It would've been easier to just resurrect the Rockers' name and just update the logo and uniform.
It also would've been just as easy to tie the team to the Cavs — similar to what we saw with the G League team, the Cleveland Charge. There is some value in tying all these related professional basketball teams together. Especially one that will be playing in the same arena as the Cavs.
#cleveland
1 month ago
Rod Stewart has become a grandfather for the sixth time.
The British rocker's daughter Ruby has welcomed a second son with her fiancé, Jake Kalick.
Ruby took to Instagram to share the happy news alongside a series of images of her newborn boy.
"We welcomed our little (big) Levi Rhodes Kalick at 6:58 pm on 4 August 2026 at 9lbs," she captioned the announcement.
"His name Levi means My Heart, and his arrival has grown our hearts to 10 times the size. Seeing Otis and Levi meet for the first time might have been the greatest experience of my life so far. We are already so in love with this sweet boy!"
Ruby and her creative director partner became engaged in January 2023, just weeks after announcing she was expecting their first baby, Otis.
#otis #jake
The British rocker's daughter Ruby has welcomed a second son with her fiancé, Jake Kalick.
Ruby took to Instagram to share the happy news alongside a series of images of her newborn boy.
"We welcomed our little (big) Levi Rhodes Kalick at 6:58 pm on 4 August 2026 at 9lbs," she captioned the announcement.
"His name Levi means My Heart, and his arrival has grown our hearts to 10 times the size. Seeing Otis and Levi meet for the first time might have been the greatest experience of my life so far. We are already so in love with this sweet boy!"
Ruby and her creative director partner became engaged in January 2023, just weeks after announcing she was expecting their first baby, Otis.
#otis #jake
1 month ago
Texas Rangers lineup for August 9, 2026 against the Baltimore Orioles: starting pitchers are **** ar Rocker for the Rangers and Cade Povich for the Orioles.
Texas tries to make it five in a row this afternoon as they go up against the Orioles of Baltimore. Baltimore is rolling out a lefty, so the Rangers have a right-heavy lineup that includes the newly added Jonah Bride.
The lineup:
Langford — LF
Seager — DH
#lineup
Texas tries to make it five in a row this afternoon as they go up against the Orioles of Baltimore. Baltimore is rolling out a lefty, so the Rangers have a right-heavy lineup that includes the newly added Jonah Bride.
The lineup:
Langford — LF
Seager — DH
#lineup
2 months ago
It was announced that in 2028, a new WNBA franchise will reside in Cleveland, Ohio. In a live-stream unveiling on August 4th, a presentation group include Cleveland Cavaliers president of basketball operations Koby Altman, it was revealed what the newest chapter of Cleveland's part in the WNBA.
The name decided upon is the Cleveland Sirens. The name was chosen "for Lake Erie's power and pull".
The last time there was a WNBA franchise in Cleveland, it was under the Cleveland Rockers, who eventually were dissolved as Cavaliers owner Gordon Gund no longer wanted to house the franchise.
For those hoping the Rockers would return in the unveiling, they were at least mentioned in the press release.
"Cleveland gave the world rock and roll, then brought that sound to the WNBA stage. Now, we're back. With a different song. A louder one."
#august
The name decided upon is the Cleveland Sirens. The name was chosen "for Lake Erie's power and pull".
The last time there was a WNBA franchise in Cleveland, it was under the Cleveland Rockers, who eventually were dissolved as Cavaliers owner Gordon Gund no longer wanted to house the franchise.
For those hoping the Rockers would return in the unveiling, they were at least mentioned in the press release.
"Cleveland gave the world rock and roll, then brought that sound to the WNBA stage. Now, we're back. With a different song. A louder one."
#august
2 months ago
A mythological creature is finding a home off the shores of Lake Erie, in Cleveland.
The Cleveland Sirens is the name for the WNBA expansion team that will debut in 2028. Rock Entertainment Group, which owns the team, announced the name August 4 at Rocket Arena.
Northeast Ohio basketball fans have been speculating about the expansion team's name since the city was awarded a franchise last year. Cleveland's former WNBA team was the Rockers until it went defunct in 2003.
But long before the name debut, there were signs.
It started off at Edgewater Beach when a mysterious sandcastle appeared July 31 with the logo 'Hear The Call' in blue coloring.
#expansion #debut #erie
The Cleveland Sirens is the name for the WNBA expansion team that will debut in 2028. Rock Entertainment Group, which owns the team, announced the name August 4 at Rocket Arena.
Northeast Ohio basketball fans have been speculating about the expansion team's name since the city was awarded a franchise last year. Cleveland's former WNBA team was the Rockers until it went defunct in 2003.
But long before the name debut, there were signs.
It started off at Edgewater Beach when a mysterious sandcastle appeared July 31 with the logo 'Hear The Call' in blue coloring.
#expansion #debut #erie
2 months ago
Aug. 2—Zvonimir Ivisic is considered the more defensive minded of Illinois' twin centers. For a reason. The 7-foot-2 Croatian averaged a team-high 1.9 blocks last season, and his block percentage ranked fourth nationally, per Bart Torvik, behind only Virginia's Ugonna Onyenso, Seton Hall's Najai Hines and Charleston's Chol Machot.
That's not to say Tomislav Ivisic didn't contribute defensively. The 7-1 center was certainly more of an offensive threat and his defensive rating went down from his first season in Champaign, but he still came out on the positive side of plus/minus at the defensive end of the court for the season.
Ratcheting up his defensive versatility has been an offseason goal for Tomislav Ivisic. It's arguably his primary goal.
"I want to be a better defender," he said. "To be able to hope (defensive coordinator Camryn Crocker) have more variety on the defensive end. If he thinks maybe for one game it would be best to switch, and if I'm not ready to switch, then we can't play switch. I'm trying to be a better defender on that end.
"That all starts with small details like having hip mobility, hamstring and quad stretch, a little bit of balance. Small stuff that we do every day and that we've been working on since the season was over. I definitely feel improvement there. I also gained some weight. Which should slow me down, but that's why we work on extra stuff to not slow me down and improve my mobility and agility."
#ivisic #down #defender
That's not to say Tomislav Ivisic didn't contribute defensively. The 7-1 center was certainly more of an offensive threat and his defensive rating went down from his first season in Champaign, but he still came out on the positive side of plus/minus at the defensive end of the court for the season.
Ratcheting up his defensive versatility has been an offseason goal for Tomislav Ivisic. It's arguably his primary goal.
"I want to be a better defender," he said. "To be able to hope (defensive coordinator Camryn Crocker) have more variety on the defensive end. If he thinks maybe for one game it would be best to switch, and if I'm not ready to switch, then we can't play switch. I'm trying to be a better defender on that end.
"That all starts with small details like having hip mobility, hamstring and quad stretch, a little bit of balance. Small stuff that we do every day and that we've been working on since the season was over. I definitely feel improvement there. I also gained some weight. Which should slow me down, but that's why we work on extra stuff to not slow me down and improve my mobility and agility."
#ivisic #down #defender
2 months ago
Defense wins championships, and often that is because of a strong foundation along the line of scrimmage. The front seven is key to stopping the run and putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks. If a defense can win against the run without devoting extra numbers to pass coverage, that can throw offenses through a loop.
The Oregon Ducks have proven they can stop the run and get after the passer, and this season should be more of the same. A veteran group, led by Matayo Uiagalelei and Teitum Tuioti, will guide the Ducks along the line of scrimmage, turning runs inside to Bear Alexander and A'Mauri Washington while making quarterbacks uncomfortable on dropbacks.
CBS Sports' Blake Brockermeyer tabbed Oregon's front seven as the third-best in the country, trailing only Oklahoma and Miami. Not only do the Ducks have experienced talent up front, but they have plenty of depth as well, including Nasir Wyatt on the edge and North Carolina transfer D'Antre Robinson on the interior.
"The Ducks return the best defensive line in the country, led by returning interior starters Bear Alexander and A'Mauri Washington," Brockermeyer wrote. "Both rank among the nation's best run defenders and have steadily improved as pass rushers. They possess the power and knock-back ability to physically dominate opponents."
While Oregon is loaded with talent along the defensive line, the linebacker room still has some questions. Jerry Mixon takes over as the leader after a breakout season in 2025 behind leading tackler Bryce Boettcher. Now that Boettcher is off to the NFL, Mixon will lead the room.
#alexander
The Oregon Ducks have proven they can stop the run and get after the passer, and this season should be more of the same. A veteran group, led by Matayo Uiagalelei and Teitum Tuioti, will guide the Ducks along the line of scrimmage, turning runs inside to Bear Alexander and A'Mauri Washington while making quarterbacks uncomfortable on dropbacks.
CBS Sports' Blake Brockermeyer tabbed Oregon's front seven as the third-best in the country, trailing only Oklahoma and Miami. Not only do the Ducks have experienced talent up front, but they have plenty of depth as well, including Nasir Wyatt on the edge and North Carolina transfer D'Antre Robinson on the interior.
"The Ducks return the best defensive line in the country, led by returning interior starters Bear Alexander and A'Mauri Washington," Brockermeyer wrote. "Both rank among the nation's best run defenders and have steadily improved as pass rushers. They possess the power and knock-back ability to physically dominate opponents."
While Oregon is loaded with talent along the defensive line, the linebacker room still has some questions. Jerry Mixon takes over as the leader after a breakout season in 2025 behind leading tackler Bryce Boettcher. Now that Boettcher is off to the NFL, Mixon will lead the room.
#alexander
2 months ago
Parker McCollum and Hallie Ray Light McCollum have welcomed their second child.
The country singer and his wife announced in a joint Instagram post that they had had another baby boy.
"Rocker Tommy Light McCollum! Born on 30 July, 8 pounds 7 oz," the proud parents captioned the post.
They added, "Thank you Jesus for another healthy baby boy! We are so in love with our little fam! Mom and Dad x 2 here we go!"
The couple, who tied the knot in March 2022, shared the news alongside a series of photos of their family of four taken at the hospital, with older son Major seen getting in close to look at his new brother.
The happy news comes after the ACM 2026 Album of the Year winner announced on social media on Wednesday last week that he would need to postpone a few shows so he could be at home for the birth.
#baby
The country singer and his wife announced in a joint Instagram post that they had had another baby boy.
"Rocker Tommy Light McCollum! Born on 30 July, 8 pounds 7 oz," the proud parents captioned the post.
They added, "Thank you Jesus for another healthy baby boy! We are so in love with our little fam! Mom and Dad x 2 here we go!"
The couple, who tied the knot in March 2022, shared the news alongside a series of photos of their family of four taken at the hospital, with older son Major seen getting in close to look at his new brother.
The happy news comes after the ACM 2026 Album of the Year winner announced on social media on Wednesday last week that he would need to postpone a few shows so he could be at home for the birth.
#baby
2 months ago
Rangers 7, Mariners 3
That was a very nice way to end the series, and the homestand.
Having good ****** ar Rocker on the mound certainly helped quite a bit.
I didn't think we were going to have good ****** ar Rocker in the early going. After a quick first, Randy Arozarena took Rocker deep to start the second inning, negating Joc Pederson's leadoff home run in the bottom of the first.
Then, staked to a 4-1 lead when he took the mound to start the third inning, thanks to Pederson's second homer of the day, Rocker gave up a flared single, a rocket single, and a line drive from Julio Rodriguez that resulted in a sacrifice fly, making it 4-2.
#rocker #good #going #took
That was a very nice way to end the series, and the homestand.
Having good ****** ar Rocker on the mound certainly helped quite a bit.
I didn't think we were going to have good ****** ar Rocker in the early going. After a quick first, Randy Arozarena took Rocker deep to start the second inning, negating Joc Pederson's leadoff home run in the bottom of the first.
Then, staked to a 4-1 lead when he took the mound to start the third inning, thanks to Pederson's second homer of the day, Rocker gave up a flared single, a rocket single, and a line drive from Julio Rodriguez that resulted in a sacrifice fly, making it 4-2.
#rocker #good #going #took
2 months ago
Astros 9, Rangers 3
That was unfun.
Kumar Rocker? Well, I guess he pitched okay, if you ignore the home runs.
The home runs? They kind of put a damper on things.
Allowing Yordan Alvarez to launch one to the moon? Okay, that happens. Pretty much every time Alvarez plays the Rangers, really.
That was unfun.
Kumar Rocker? Well, I guess he pitched okay, if you ignore the home runs.
The home runs? They kind of put a damper on things.
Allowing Yordan Alvarez to launch one to the moon? Okay, that happens. Pretty much every time Alvarez plays the Rangers, really.
2 months ago
Quarterback consistency is a big factor in a team maintaining success, which is extremely hard to do in the current college football landscape. However, the Oregon Ducks have been a great example of getting it right at quarterback year after year.
In a recent article, Blake Brockermeyer lists the Ducks' quarterback room as the best in college football. Here is what he had to say about the Ducks' signal callers:
"Dante Moore is my top-ranked QB entering the season season and it is still baffling that he turned down life-changing money to return to Oregon. More power to him.
The Ducks have also done a strong job over the last few seasons of adding capable backup quarterbacks with starting experience as insurance. Dylan Raiola is now the next man up after starting the last few seasons for Nebraska, giving Oregon one of the rare quarterback rooms with both high-end talent and real experience behind the starter. Moore resurrected his career by transferring to Oregon and learning behind Dillon Gabriel for a year, and Raiola is going to replicate that come 2027.
Oregon's quarterbacks enter the season with 42 combined starts on a loaded roster that looks like my favorite to win the national ***** le. In today's college football, that kind of quarterback depth is almost impossible to find."
In a recent article, Blake Brockermeyer lists the Ducks' quarterback room as the best in college football. Here is what he had to say about the Ducks' signal callers:
"Dante Moore is my top-ranked QB entering the season season and it is still baffling that he turned down life-changing money to return to Oregon. More power to him.
The Ducks have also done a strong job over the last few seasons of adding capable backup quarterbacks with starting experience as insurance. Dylan Raiola is now the next man up after starting the last few seasons for Nebraska, giving Oregon one of the rare quarterback rooms with both high-end talent and real experience behind the starter. Moore resurrected his career by transferring to Oregon and learning behind Dillon Gabriel for a year, and Raiola is going to replicate that come 2027.
Oregon's quarterbacks enter the season with 42 combined starts on a loaded roster that looks like my favorite to win the national ***** le. In today's college football, that kind of quarterback depth is almost impossible to find."
3 months ago
Tigers 6, Rangers 3
The Rangers are now on a losing streak.
And are back to .500.
Why do the Rangers want to vex us so?
Kumar Rocker seemed to be going well to start the game. He faced one over the minimum through three innings, allowing a pair of singles, but erasing one of them with a double play ball.
The Rangers are now on a losing streak.
And are back to .500.
Why do the Rangers want to vex us so?
Kumar Rocker seemed to be going well to start the game. He faced one over the minimum through three innings, allowing a pair of singles, but erasing one of them with a double play ball.
3 months ago
Time/Place: 3:30 p.m., Globe Life Field
SB Nation Site: Lone Star Ball
Media: Peacock, Tigers Radio Network
Pitching Matchup: RHP Casey Mize (3-5, 2.63 ERA) vs. RHP ***** ar Rocker (2-6, 3.83 ERA)
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SB Nation Site: Lone Star Ball
Media: Peacock, Tigers Radio Network
Pitching Matchup: RHP Casey Mize (3-5, 2.63 ERA) vs. RHP ***** ar Rocker (2-6, 3.83 ERA)
Sign up for a user account and get:
Fewer ads
Create community posts
Comment on articles, community posts
3 months ago
Concerned about an AI bubble? Sign up for The Daily Upside for smart and actionable market news, built for investors.
One part of people's budgets is untouchable no matter how thin their wallets get, and that's Fido's portion. The only segment of General Mills' sales in North America that rose in the fourth quarter was its pet business, which includes brands like Blue Buffalo and Tiki Cat. The rest of its earnings, reported yesterday, weren't as rosy.
The company, which owns brands including Cheerios and Betty Crocker, posted a $2 billion loss last quarter, mainly because of non-cash items. Revenue rose 1% as shoppers skimped, opting for smaller package sizes and sale items.
General Mills said yesterday it'll try to scrape together $3 billion in cost savings over the next four years, all while innovating in its products. Investors seemed to like the sound of the cereal company's lean and protein-packed plan, pushing its stock up about 9% yesterday.
Sign up for The Daily Upside at no cost for premium **** ysis on all your favorite stocks.
One part of people's budgets is untouchable no matter how thin their wallets get, and that's Fido's portion. The only segment of General Mills' sales in North America that rose in the fourth quarter was its pet business, which includes brands like Blue Buffalo and Tiki Cat. The rest of its earnings, reported yesterday, weren't as rosy.
The company, which owns brands including Cheerios and Betty Crocker, posted a $2 billion loss last quarter, mainly because of non-cash items. Revenue rose 1% as shoppers skimped, opting for smaller package sizes and sale items.
General Mills said yesterday it'll try to scrape together $3 billion in cost savings over the next four years, all while innovating in its products. Investors seemed to like the sound of the cereal company's lean and protein-packed plan, pushing its stock up about 9% yesterday.
Sign up for The Daily Upside at no cost for premium **** ysis on all your favorite stocks.
3 months ago
Kid Rock just revealed one of his favorite parts of being friends with President Donald Trump.
Calling their relationship "******* awesome" during an interview with Sky News Australia for his forthcoming travelogue "Trump's America: 250 Years in the Making," the rap-rocker-turned-country-crooner born Bob Ritchie said drunk dialing the president has become one of his go-to "late night drinking tricks."
Buzz: Angelina Jolie Explains Why She's Been Preparing Her Kids For Her Death
"You know, sitting around having some beers, it's like 11 p.m., 12 a.m. on Friday or Saturday. I know he's up. He sleeps like me. He sleeps like five hours," Kid Rock said of Trump.
"I know when to get him, and he's so gracious," he went on. "He always picks up, or he'll call and check in just to shoot the **** most of the time."
Calling their relationship "******* awesome" during an interview with Sky News Australia for his forthcoming travelogue "Trump's America: 250 Years in the Making," the rap-rocker-turned-country-crooner born Bob Ritchie said drunk dialing the president has become one of his go-to "late night drinking tricks."
Buzz: Angelina Jolie Explains Why She's Been Preparing Her Kids For Her Death
"You know, sitting around having some beers, it's like 11 p.m., 12 a.m. on Friday or Saturday. I know he's up. He sleeps like me. He sleeps like five hours," Kid Rock said of Trump.
"I know when to get him, and he's so gracious," he went on. "He always picks up, or he'll call and check in just to shoot the **** most of the time."
3 months ago
Courteney ****** is doing her best to stay positive and power through the pain of her break-up from longtime partner Johnny McDaid, a source tells In Touch.
"The plain truth is that he just got bored of the arrangement over time and decided to throw in the towel late last year," the source says of their 10-plus year romance. "The spark had gone and he wanted to draw a line so they could both move on."
It's not the first time the couple has called it quits.
Back in 2015, the Snow Patrol rocker, 49, broke off their engagement in a couples therapy session, the Friends alum, 62, revealed during a 2024 appearance on Minnie Questions with Minnie Driver.
Despite reconciling a year later, ****** and McDaid never did make it down the aisle.
"The plain truth is that he just got bored of the arrangement over time and decided to throw in the towel late last year," the source says of their 10-plus year romance. "The spark had gone and he wanted to draw a line so they could both move on."
It's not the first time the couple has called it quits.
Back in 2015, the Snow Patrol rocker, 49, broke off their engagement in a couples therapy session, the Friends alum, 62, revealed during a 2024 appearance on Minnie Questions with Minnie Driver.
Despite reconciling a year later, ****** and McDaid never did make it down the aisle.
3 months ago
A lot has changed for Khloé Kardashian since the early days of "Keeping Up With the Kardashians," especially her style. Decades and countless seasons since the show first aired on E!, the Kardashian family has built an empire that includes fashion, popcorn, jeans, makeup, shapewear, vitamins, tequila, and beyond. Fans remember the Khloé from those early days fondly, mostly cherishing her sense of humor and her individuality, which can be challenging in a large family like hers.
Through her style, the Good American founder has carved her own lane and built her own identity without allowing her sisters and their endeavors to change her unique personality and flair. Since the beginning, she has had an eye for flashy footwear that perfectly coordinated with her outfits but has since pivoted toward more minimalist styles. Her sisters Kim and Kourtney have developed their own shoe styles as well, with the former leaning more into towering designer high heels and the latter going for a more rocker-chic aesthetic. Her younger sister Kylie usually stays ahead of the trends, while Kendall goes for minimalist, model off-duty shoes.
More from WWD
Rachel Brosnahan Mirrors Corset Lacing With René Caovilla Platforms at the 'Supergirl' Premiere
Olivia Cooke Shows Off Loafer-inspired High Heels at Thom Browne's Spring 2027 Show
Through her style, the Good American founder has carved her own lane and built her own identity without allowing her sisters and their endeavors to change her unique personality and flair. Since the beginning, she has had an eye for flashy footwear that perfectly coordinated with her outfits but has since pivoted toward more minimalist styles. Her sisters Kim and Kourtney have developed their own shoe styles as well, with the former leaning more into towering designer high heels and the latter going for a more rocker-chic aesthetic. Her younger sister Kylie usually stays ahead of the trends, while Kendall goes for minimalist, model off-duty shoes.
More from WWD
Rachel Brosnahan Mirrors Corset Lacing With René Caovilla Platforms at the 'Supergirl' Premiere
Olivia Cooke Shows Off Loafer-inspired High Heels at Thom Browne's Spring 2027 Show
3 months ago
Rangers 4, Marlins 3
That was a productive way to start a lengthy road trip.
After ****** ar Rocker had the best outing of his career roughly a monthly ago in Colorado, throwing 7.2 shutout innings while striking out seven after coming in behind an opener, I confidently predicted that the Rangers would do that again his next time out.
The Rangers did not, in fact, do that again his next time out. Rocker was generally fine his next four starts, then got knocked around last week against the Twins, allowing seven runs, including two in the first.
With a 9.69 ERA in the first inning of games coming into his start against Miami, compared to a 2.89 ERA in every other inning, Skip Schumaker went back to the opener well, having Tyler Alexander pitch the first inning, with Rocker following him.
That was a productive way to start a lengthy road trip.
After ****** ar Rocker had the best outing of his career roughly a monthly ago in Colorado, throwing 7.2 shutout innings while striking out seven after coming in behind an opener, I confidently predicted that the Rangers would do that again his next time out.
The Rangers did not, in fact, do that again his next time out. Rocker was generally fine his next four starts, then got knocked around last week against the Twins, allowing seven runs, including two in the first.
With a 9.69 ERA in the first inning of games coming into his start against Miami, compared to a 2.89 ERA in every other inning, Skip Schumaker went back to the opener well, having Tyler Alexander pitch the first inning, with Rocker following him.
3 months ago
As Lewis Crocker realised a lifetime dream by winning the IBF welterweight ***** le at Windsor Park in his native Belfast last September, predictably, the questions as to what is next quickly followed.
Marquee names such as Conor Benn and Devin Haney were rumoured for a lucrative first defence, while a domestic rematch with Conah Walker was also touted, but instead of home comforts, the 29-year-old finds himself in Brisbane, Australia to face mandatory contender and local favourite Liam Paro on Wednesday.
With Paddy Donovan - whom Crocker had edged in their rematch to claim the ***** le last year to improve to 22 wins from as many contests - withdrawing from a final eliminator against Paro [27-1] in January, the former IBF light-welterweight champion was elevated to mandatory challenger.
Australian promoter No Limit would win the purse bid, edging out Crocker's promoter Matchroom by $27,000 (£20,000), handing Paro the opportunity to win a world ***** le in his native Queensland.
Roles are somewhat reversed this time, as Paro won his first world ***** le in the 10st division by upsetting the odds in June 2024 against Puerto Rico's Subriel Matias in enemy territory, before returning to the island to be out-pointed by USA's Richardson Hitchens six months later.
Marquee names such as Conor Benn and Devin Haney were rumoured for a lucrative first defence, while a domestic rematch with Conah Walker was also touted, but instead of home comforts, the 29-year-old finds himself in Brisbane, Australia to face mandatory contender and local favourite Liam Paro on Wednesday.
With Paddy Donovan - whom Crocker had edged in their rematch to claim the ***** le last year to improve to 22 wins from as many contests - withdrawing from a final eliminator against Paro [27-1] in January, the former IBF light-welterweight champion was elevated to mandatory challenger.
Australian promoter No Limit would win the purse bid, edging out Crocker's promoter Matchroom by $27,000 (£20,000), handing Paro the opportunity to win a world ***** le in his native Queensland.
Roles are somewhat reversed this time, as Paro won his first world ***** le in the 10st division by upsetting the odds in June 2024 against Puerto Rico's Subriel Matias in enemy territory, before returning to the island to be out-pointed by USA's Richardson Hitchens six months later.
