ALANIS THAMES Sports Writer, Author at The Rapid City Post

Red Panda performs during halftime of an NCAA college basketball game between Miami and Stanford in Coral Gables, Fla., Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

After a terrifying fall, Red Panda retraces what went wrong and the support that carried her back

January 29, 2026

Rong Niu’s pink sequined dress shimmered under the arena lights at a recent Miami men’s basketball game. The popular halftime performer known as “Red Panda” finished her signature seven-minute set. She looked up at a crowd of fans chanting her name and flashed a smile before dismounting. Niu has grown somewhat accustomed to the fanfare over decades performing at NBA, WNBA and college basketball games. Still, even after sports fans rallied around her following a frightening fall during a WNBA game last July, she can hardly put words to what the support means to her.

Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti smiles after their win against Miami in the College Football Playoff national championship game, Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Curt Cignetti finishes his masterpiece, coaching unbeaten Indiana to title in his 2nd season

January 19, 2026

Curt Cignetti came to Indiana to win championships. The old-school, blunt-spoken coach who began his Hoosiers tenure with a promise to bring swift success to the losingest program in college football completed his masterpiece on Monday night. Cignetti guided Indiana to a 27-21 win over the Miami Hurricanes in the College Football Playoff final and the first national championship in school history. The Hoosiers finished off an undefeated campaign in front of 67,227 fans at Hard Rock Stadium, concluding one of the most surprising turnarounds in college football history.

FILE - Jon-Eric Sullivan, Green Bay Packers director of college scouting, talks in Green Bay, Wis., April 26, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike Roemer, File)

Jon-Eric Sullivan finalizing deal to become Miami Dolphins GM, AP source says

January 9, 2026

Jon-Eric Sullivan is finalizing a deal to join the Dolphins their general manager. That’s according to a person with knowledge of the hiring. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the team had not made an announcement. The former Green Bay Packers executive is the first key piece in Miami’s organizational reboot. Sullivan was previously the Packers’ vice president of player personnel. He completed an in-person interview this week with the Dolphins. Miami was expected to move swiftly in hiring a new general manager after parting ways with longtime GM Chris Grier during the season. ESPN first reported the deal.

Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel speaks during a news conference after an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Dolphins fire Mike McDaniel, the quirky, inventive coach who they once viewed as their future

January 8, 2026

The Miami Dolphins have fired coach Mike McDaniel following a 7-10 season in which Miami missed the playoffs for the second straight year. The decision Thursday ends McDaniel’s four-year tenure in Miami, a period defined by soaring expectations that ultimately went unfulfilled. Dolphins owner Stephen Ross said he spoke with McDaniel on Thursday morning to inform him of the decision. The Dolphins went 35-33 under McDaniel, reaching the playoffs in his first two seasons but losing in the first round each time.

Lunar Owls forward Napheesa Collier, right, talks with guard Skylar Diggins as both sit out with injuries at the start of their Unrivaled 3-on-3 basketball game against Rose BC, Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, in Medley, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Unrivaled’s second season provides key gathering place for WNBA players during CBA negotiations

January 6, 2026

Napheesa Collier sat on the bench at Sephora Arena laughing with her Unrivaled teammate Skylar Diggins moments before tipoff between the Lunar Owls and Rose BC. It was a tiny glimpse of what Unrivaled provided star WNBA players in Year 1: high-level competition and camaraderie while offering an arena for players to sharpen their skills ahead of the WNBA season. Unrivaled’s second season began on Monday. Now the league is providing a central gathering place for players to strategize and build solidarity as players negotiate a new collecitve bargaining agreement.

New York Rangers players gather for a team picture during practice for the NHL Winter Classic outdoor hockey game, Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, in Miami. (AP Photo/Michael Laughlin)

Florida Panthers and New York Rangers bring Miami Vice flair to Winter Classic

January 2, 2026

The Florida Panthers arrived in Ferraris, cigars lit, dressed in all-white Miami Vice attire — and, in true South Florida fashion, fashionably late. The New York Rangers followed suit, stepping into loanDepot Park in their own Miami Vice whites. With that, the 2025 Winter Classic was underway. At loanDepot Park, home of Major League Baseball’s Miami Marlins, an expected sold-out crowd had already begun filling the streets hours before the defending Stanley Cup champion Panthers were set to host the Rangers in the first outdoor game to take place in Florida.

FILE - Troy Aikman prior to an NFL football game between the Los Angeles Rams and the Miami Dolphins, Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Jayne Kamin-Oncea, File)

Troy Aikman to advise Miami Dolphins in search for new GM

January 2, 2026

Hall of Fame quarterback Troy Aikman will be advising the Miami Dolphins in their search for a new general manager. Aikman, who led the Dallas Cowboys to three Super Bowl wins and is now an ESPN analyst, isn’t expected to remain with the organization beyond their GM search, ESPN reported. Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel welcomed the outside help. The Dolphins fired longtime general manager Chris Grier on Oct. 31 after a 2-7 start to the season. Dolphins senior personnel executive Champ Kelly has been Miami’s interim general manager.

Oregon quarterback Dante Moore (5) is tackled by Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez as he scrambles with the ball during the first half of the Orange Bowl College Football Playoff quarterfinal game, Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Texas Tech’s expensive roster is not enough to overcome Oregon in Orange Bowl

January 1, 2026

Jacob Rodriguez and Texas Tech’s high-priced defense delivered opportunity after opportunity, disrupting the Oregon Ducks’ dominant offense to put the Red Raiders in position to seize control of a College Football Playoff quarterfinal game. But the offense never did. Facing its stiffest test of the season, Texas Tech’s offense couldn’t match the urgency or execution of its defense, and the No. 4 Red Raiders’ impressive 2025 run ended in a 23-0 loss to No. 5 Oregon in the Orange Bowl on Thursday. It was a sobering finish for a program that won 12 games this season en route to its first Big 12 Conference title and CFP berth.

Miami Dolphins quarterback Quinn Ewers (14) looks to pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Dolphins are getting production from their young players, an encouraging sign for the future

December 29, 2025

Mike McDaniel stood in the locker room after the Miami Dolphins’ 20-17 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and began calling out the names of the game’s most impactful players. McDaniel then rattled off several members of the Dolphins’ rookie class who played key roles in the victory. With Miami already eliminated from playoff contention, the final games of the season have provided extended opportunities for young players. On Sunday the Dolphins got meaningful contributions from their rookies, an encouraging sign as the franchise looks toward the future.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, center, runs against Miami Dolphins linebacker Bradley Chubb (2) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Tampa Bay’s playoff chances are growing slimmer, but still alive despite fourth straight loss

December 28, 2025

Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David delivered a speech to his teammates in the locker room following Sunday’s 20-17 loss to the Miami Dolphins. Baker Mayfield wanted to keep the contents of that message in-house, but the quarterback of the reeling Buccaneers indicated that the veteran’s words were clear that the team still has a chance to clinch the division. The Buccaneers would still clinch their fifth consecutive division title and a playoff berth if they beat Carolina (8-8) in next week’s regular-season finale to force a two-way tie.

Miami Dolphins quarterback Quinn Ewers (14) looks to pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Ewers throws 2 TDs as Dolphins beat Bucs 20-17 to force pivotal Week 18 NFC South matchup

December 28, 2025

Rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers threw for 172 yards and two touchdowns, including a 63-yard toss on his first career score — and the Miami Dolphins beat the slumping Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20-17 on Sunday. The Bucs (7-9) entered the day one game behind the Carolina Panthers (8-7) in the NFC South. With the Panthers’ 27-10 loss to Seattle on Sunday, the Buccaneers would still clinch their fifth consecutive division title and sixth straight playoff berth by beating Carolina in next week’s regular-season finale. Baker Mayfield completed 33 of 44 passes for 346 yards with two interceptions.

Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel ponders a question at news conference following a loss to the Cincinnati Bengals in an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Dolphins’ Mike McDaniel declines to discuss his future after another embarrassing loss

December 21, 2025

Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel has declined to address his future with the team after another embarrassing loss. The Dolphins were routed 45-21 by the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. Miami has already been eliminated from the playoffs for the second straight season. And for the second consecutive game, the Dolphins unraveled in the third quarter. NFL Network reported earlier Sunday that owner Stephen Ross is expected to stick with McDaniel in 2026 despite another season of unfulfilled expectations for the Dolphins. McDaniel did not answer when asked if he’s been told he’s coming back.

Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) walks off the field after an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Pittsburgh, Monday, Dec. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Justin Berl)

Dolphins considering a change at QB after Tua Tagovailoa’s continued struggles

December 16, 2025

Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel is considering a quarterback change after Tua Tagovailoa’s continued struggles this season. Those were magnified in Monday night’s loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers that eliminated Miami from playoff contention for the second straight season. Tagovailoa threw for just 65 yards through three quarters, and the areas in which he has appeared to regress were evident again, from questionable decision-making to a lack of mobility that has hampered him throughout the season. McDaniel said he would give “more clarity” on his quarterback decision on Wednesday.

Miami Dolphins linebacker Jordyn Brooks (20) and linebacker Jaelan Phillips (15) defend Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson, center, during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Miami Dolphins trade edge rusher Jaelan Phillips to Philadelphia Eagles, AP source says

November 3, 2025

The Miami Dolphins are trading edge rusher Jaelan Phillips to the Philadelphia Eagles for a third-round pick in next year’s draft. A person with knowledge of the move told The Associated Press on Monday. The trade reunites Phillips with Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, who was with Miami in 2023. Phillips had 6 1/2 sacks and 43 tackles in just eight games that season. This is the first trade by Dolphins interim general manager Champ Kelly. Phillips is expected to boost the Eagles’ pass rush, as Philadelphia has just 16 sacks through eight games this season.

Miami Dolphins general manager Chris Grier listens questions during an NFL football press conference, Friday, April 25, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Jim Rassol, File)

Miami Dolphins and General Manager Chris Grier agree to part ways

October 31, 2025

The Miami Dolphins and Chris Grier have agreed to part ways, ending his 10-year tenure as general manager. The decision comes after Miami fell to 2-7 on the season following Thursday night’s 28-6 rout against the Baltimore Ravens. During Grier’s tenure — he has been with the organization since 2000, and general manager since 2016 — the Dolphins recorded five winning seasons and three playoff appearances but failed to win a postseason game. Miami’s 25-year playoff win drought remains the longest active streak in the NFL. Champ Kelly will be Miami’s interim general manager the rest of the season.

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) throws against the Miami Dolphins during the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Lamar Jackson torches Miami with 4 TD passes in return from injury and Ravens rout Dolphins 28-6

October 30, 2025

Lamar Jackson threw for 204 yards and four touchdowns, showing little rust in his return from a right hamstring strain, and the Baltimore Ravens routed the Miami Dolphins 28-6. Jackson completed 18 of 23 passes in his first start since Week 4 against Kansas City, and the Ravens won their second straight as they hope to make a run in the wide-open AFC North. Tight end Mark Andrews made two touchdown catches. Jackson’s other TD passes went to tight end Charlie Kolar and receiver Rashod Bateman. Derrick Henry rushed 119 yards on 19 carries. The Dolphins were undone by a slew of mistakes in the first half.

Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa speaks at a news conference after the Los Angeles Chargers defeated the Dolphins 29-27 in an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Tua Tagovailoa apologizes for postgame comments calling out teammates

October 15, 2025

Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa apologized for comments he made following Sunday’s loss to the Los Angeles Chargers in which he revealed some teammates were showing up late to player-led meetings. Tagovailoa opened his news conference Wednesday with an apology to his teammates for the comments, which have drawn widespread criticism over the past few days. After the Dolphins fell 29-27 to the Chargers, Tagovailoa was asked how to keep up team morale. He questioned the leadership and said players were showing up late to meetings.

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (17) is tackled by New York Jets safety Andre Cisco (8) in the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Dolphins confident in Jaylen Waddle as No. 1 receiver after Tyreek Hill’s injury

October 2, 2025

Mike McDaniel doesn’t see Jaylen Waddle balking at the chance to be the Miami Dolphins’ No. 1 receiver. Tyreek Hill has been the centerpiece of Miami’s offense the past few years, but the Dolphins will now rely on Waddle with Hill sidelined the rest of the season with a knee injury. McDaniel believes Waddle is up for the challenge. He and the Dolphins will be tasked with figuring out a new-look offense as they hope to build on their first win of the season.

Miami Dolphins tight end Darren Waller (83) catches a touchdown pass as New York Jets' Sauce Gardner, rear, and Brandon Stephens (21) defend in the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier)

Darren Waller has 2 TDs, Dolphins beat Jets 27-21 but lose Tyreek Hill to serious leg injury

September 29, 2025

Darren Waller had a pair of touchdown catches in his first NFL game in nearly two years, and Tua Tagovailoa threw for 177 yards to lead the Miami Dolphins to their first win of the season, 27-21 over the New York Jets. The Dolphins lost star receiver Tyreek Hill to what appeared to be a serious knee injury in the third quarter. Hill was carted off and taken to a hospital. Tagovailoa completed 17 of 25 passes and didn’t have a turnover Monday night as he moved to 7-0 against the Jets as Miami’s starter. The Dolphins are 1-3 while the Jets fell to 0-4.

New York Mets' Pete Alonso, left, stands with Francisco Lindor after flying out with the bases loaded during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Miami Marlins, Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025, in Miami. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Mets can’t overcome poor 2nd half of season, miss playoffs with season-ending loss at Miami

September 28, 2025

The New York Mets entered Sunday’s regular-season finale against the Miami Marlins with a singular goal: win. That was the only thing manager Carlos Mendoza’s fading team could still control in its bid to reach the postseason. But those hopes dissipated in one decisive inning. New York could not overcome a four-run fourth by the Marlins, and the Mets were eliminated from the playoff field with a 4-0 loss. The Mets missed the postseason a year after reaching the National League Championship Series and after holding the best record in the majors on June 12 — a stunning collapse for the star-studded club with a major league-high $322.6 million payroll on opening day. New York’s loss meant Cincinnati earned the final NL wild card despite losing at Milwaukee.

New York Mets' Pete Alonso hits a solo home run during the third inning of a baseball game against the Miami Marlins, Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, in Miami. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Alonso and Holmes lead Mets past Marlins 5-0 to push NL wild-card race to final day of season

September 27, 2025

Pete Alonso homered and drilled an RBI double, Clay Holmes combined with three relievers on a one-hitter, and the New York Mets beat the Miami Marlins 5-0 to push their playoff fate to the final day of the regular season. The Mets pulled a half-game ahead of Cincinnati for the last National League wild card. The Reds were set to play at NL Central champion Milwaukee later Saturday. Because the Reds hold the head-to-head tiebreaker, New York needs Cincinnati to lose at least one of its final two games against the Brewers to have a chance to reach the postseason. Holmes allowed just a single in six innings. Brooks Raley and Tyler Rogers each worked a perfect inning before Edwin Díaz got three outs to end it.

Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel looks for a play during the half of an NFL football game against the New England Patriots Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Dolphins players back coach Mike McDaniel as he faces mounting pressure amid 0-2 start

September 15, 2025

Mike McDaniel knows the weight of Miami’s 0-2 start ultimately rests on his shoulders. The Dolphins coach hasn’t shied away from that reality, nor has he dismissed the frustration building among fans — from boos echoing through Hard Rock Stadium during Sunday’s 33-27 loss to the Patriots, to a banner plane circling overhead calling for his firing. Even as the moment feels like a low point in his four-year tenure, McDaniel insists he isn’t concerned about his job security. The Dolphins have appeared disjointed and confused at times in the first two games of the season, from operational miscues to breakdowns and missed assignments.

FILE - A player jumps to shoot during an Unrivaled 3-on-3 basketball semifinal, March 16, 2025, in Medley, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell, File)

Unrivaled women’s basketball league expands with new clubs and development pool

September 10, 2025

Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart’s 3-on-3 women’s basketball league, Unrivaled, is expanding for its second season. The league is adding two new clubs, Breeze Basketball Club and Hive Basketball Club. The announcement was made Wednesday. Unrivaled also will introduce a development pool with six players and add a fourth night of games. This expansion increases the league to eight teams and 54 players, up from six teams and 36 players in its inaugural season. The second season will start in January. The league is now valued at $340 million after a successful Series B investment round.

Lauren Boden, second from right, Stephanie Everett, right, and other players talk in the dugout during the first day of tryouts for the Women's Professional Baseball League, Friday, Aug 22, 2025, at the Washington Nationals Youth Baseball Academy in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Women’s Professional Baseball League launching in 2026 offers new hope for athletes

August 23, 2025

Victoria Ruelas made history at 12 as the first American girl to play in the Little League World Series in 1989. She’s proud of women’s progress in sports but wishes for more opportunities, especially in baseball. The Women’s Professional Baseball League is launching next year, with tryouts in Washington D.C. The tryouts are open to all players, giving women like Ruelas a chance to chase their professional dreams. They hope to inspire the next generation of girls to see baseball as a viable career.

Mo'ne Davis throws during the first day of tryouts for the Women's Professional Baseball League, Friday, Aug 22, 2025, at the Washington Nationals Youth Baseball Academy in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Mo’ne Davis and women from around the world chase pro baseball dreams at WPBL tryouts

August 22, 2025

Open tryouts for the Women’s Professional Baseball League have begun at the Washington Nationals Youth Baseball Academy. On Friday, players from 10 countries, including Japan, Australia, and Mexico, began showcasing their skills. The event includes baserunning drills, bullpen work, and a live game on Monday. Participants range in age from 17 to 57. Notable attendees include Mo’ne Davis, known for her Little League World Series win as a pitcher. Many players, like Allison Dougherty and Heather Strong, are excited about the opportunity to play professional baseball rather than softball.

Miami Marlins' Kyle Stowers watches his ball after hitting a three-run homer in the fourth inning of a baseball game against the New York Yankees, Sunday, Aug. 3, 2025, in Miami. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Stowers homers as Marlins beat Yankees 7-3 to earn first sweep of New York in club history

August 3, 2025

Kyle Stowers hit a three-run homer and the Miami Marlins completed the first sweep of the New York Yankees in franchise history a 7-3 victory on Sunday. The Marlins (55-55) won all three games against the Yankees (60-52) to reach .500 for the first time since April 15. They became the first major league team to go from 16 or more games under .500 to a .500 record since the Rays in 2014. Yankees starter Luis Gil struck out three and surrendered five runs and five hits while issuing four walks in his season debut.

Rodrigo De Paul, Inter Miami's newest signing, addresses the media during an MLS soccer press conference, Friday, Aug. 1, 2025 in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (AP Photo/Jim Rassol)

Rodrigo De Paul excited for opportunity to play alongside Lionel Messi at Inter Miami

August 1, 2025

Rodrigo De Paul has enjoyed years of playing alongside Lionel Messi for Argentina’s national team, but the star midfielder said that for a long time, he’s dreamed of playing on the same club with his good friend. So when Messi joined Inter Miami of Major League Soccer in 2023, De Paul started paying attention. He caught MLS matches when he could and admired what Messi, co-owner David Beckham and Inter Miami were building in South Florida. Then Beckham approached De Paul with the idea of joining Inter Miami, and the 31-year-old made the choice to be a part of a league that intrigued him.

FILE - Inter Miami defender Jordi Alba, left, and forward Lionel Messi chat as they arrive before the start of an MLS soccer match against Toronto FC, Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2023, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee, File)

MLS suspension of Messi and Alba is ‘draconian,’ Inter Miami owner says

July 25, 2025

The owner of Inter Miami called Major League Soccer’s suspension of Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba for skipping the All-Star Game a “draconian” punishment. Owner Jorge Mas said Friday that Messi and Alba don’t understand the one-game suspensions. Messi and Alba did not suit up for the match between the MLS and Liga MX of Mexico despite being voted to the game. Messi did not play to rest amid a packed schedule and Alba was dealing with a previous injury. Mas said the club made the decision for Messi and Alba to sit out of the All-Star Game.

FILE - Atletico Madrid's Rodrigo De Paul controls the ball during the Club World Cup Group B soccer match between Atletico Madrid and Botafogo in Pasadena, Calif., June 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull, File)

Rodrigo De Paul to join Leo Messi at Inter Miami, AP source says

July 18, 2025

Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul has agreed to contract terms with Inter Miami. A person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press about the deal on Wednesday on condition of anonymity because the signing has not been announced. The 31-year-old De Paul will leave Atlético Madrid for Major League Soccer on a short-term contract with Inter Miami that could potentially lead to a multiyear deal. He had one year left on his contract at the Spanish club. De Paul could be in uniform with Inter Miami in time for the start of Leagues Cup play later this month.

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi (10) reacts after scoring a goal during the first half of an MLS soccer match against Nashville SC, Saturday, July 12, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Messi has 5th straight multi-goal game as Miami snaps Nashville’s unbeaten streak with 2-1 win

July 12, 2025

Lionel Messi extended his historic streak to five straight multi-goal games, and Inter Miami snapped Nashville SC’s 15-match unbeaten streak with a 2-1 win. Miami (11-3-5) won its fifth straight match and moved to fifth in the Supporter’s Shield standings as it aims to win the title for the second straight season. Messi entered Saturday’s match as the only player in Major League Soccer history with four straight multi-goal games after scoring two in Miami’s win over the New England Revolution on Wednesday.

Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe, left, and Juventus' Daniele Rugani challenge for the ball during the Club World Cup round of 16 soccer match between Real Madrid and Juventus in Miami Gardens, Fla., Tuesday, July 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Kylian Mbappé makes his Club World Cup debut in Real Madrid’s win over Juventus

July 1, 2025

Kylian Mbappé jogged, clapped his hands together and waved to a crowd of excited fans before checking into the Club World Cup for the first time. From there, the Real Madrid star didn’t need to do much for his club to advance past Juventus into the tournament’s quarterfinals. Gonzalo García, who had started Madrid’s four matches while Mbappé dealt with an illness, scored what turned out to be the winning goal on a header Tuesday before subbing out of the match. Mbappé replaced him in the 68th minute of the 1-0 win in the round of 16,

Real Madrid's Gonzalo Garcia celebrates after scoring during the Club World Cup round of 16 soccer match between Real Madrid and Juventus in Miami Gardens, Fla., Tuesday, July 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Gonzalo García’s header powers Real Madrid past Juventus 1-0 and into Club World Cup quarterfinals

July 1, 2025

Breakout tournament star Gonzalo García scored his third goal of the Club World Cup to power Real Madrid past Juventus 1-0 in the round of 16 on Tuesday afternoon and into the quarterfinals. García has started all four of Real Madrid’s matches because of a gastrointestinal illness to star striker Kylian Mbappé. The 21-year-old broke a second-half tie with a header in the 54th minute, giving him a goal contribution in every match of the tournament. García subbed out in the 68th as Mbappé checked in, making his Club World Cup debut

Bayern Munich's Harry Kane celebrates after scoring his side's second goal against Flamengo during the Club World Cup round of 16 soccer match between CR Flamengo and Bayern Munich in Miami Gardens, Fla., Sunday, June 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Harry Kane scores twice as Bayern Munich beats Flamengo 4-2 to advance in Club World Cup

June 29, 2025

Harry Kane scored twice and Bayern Munich capitalized on a quick start to beat Flamengo 4-2 in the Club World Cup round of 16 on Sunday. Germany’s premier soccer club regrouped quickly from its only loss of the tournament last week against Benfica, jumping out to a 2-0 lead then holding off Flamengo’s comeback attempt to advance to the quarterfinals. Bayern Munich will face Champions League winner Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday in Atlanta. Kane’s first goal was a deflected strike nine minutes in that made it 2-0, and the prolific goal scorer found the back of the net again on a feed from teammate Joshua Kimmich at the edge of the box that he whipped past Agustín Rossi.

Inter Miami's Lionel Messi shoots on goal against Palmeiras' Richard Rios during the Club World Cup Group A soccer match between Inter Miami and Palmeiras in Miami Gardens, Fla., Monday, June 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Messi and Inter Miami stars prepare to face former coach Luis Enrique and PSG in Club World Cup

June 26, 2025

Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and their Inter Miami teammates took the field at their practice facility Thursday for another training session. There wasn’t much different about what they did. Dribbling drills. Some laughs. Interactions with coaches. But this training was more important than most. In a few days, Inter Miami will play one of the biggest matches of its five-year club history when the Herons take on French juggernaut Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup round of 16. It will be the first time Messi faces his former club since his exit from PSG in 2023 after two seasons. He also will be facing his former Barcelona coach Luis Enrique, now the coach of PSG.

Florida Panthers head coach Paul Maurice kisses the Stanley Cup trophy after defeating the Edmonton Oilers in Game 6 of the NHL hockey Stanley Cup Final Tuesday, June 17, 2025, in Sunrise, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

For back-to-back champ Panthers, the celebrations will continue before an important offseason begins

June 21, 2025

The Florida Panthers’ Stanley Cup championship festivities have included an all-night celebration at a popular beach bar; crowd surfing, pole climbing and impromptu karaoke at a Miami nightclub; a Brad Marchand appearance at Dairy Queen; a few team dinners and a boat ride. That’s just so far. Their chaotic celebratory escapades have been all over social media. The Panthers also partied hard after winning the franchise’s first title a year ago. But some players have described those days as a surreal whirlwind of first-time experiences. This time, the celebrations are different, as the reality of what they accomplished set in.

Florida Panthers goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky poses in front of fans after winning the Stanley Cup in Game 6 of the NHL hockey Stanley Cup Final against the Edmonton Oilers Tuesday, June 17, 2025, in Sunrise, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Sergei Bobrovsky’s brilliance leads Florida Panthers to second straight Stanley Cup title

June 17, 2025

The loudest cheers among Florida Panthers fans at Amerant Bank Arena are always for Sergei Bobrovsky.Prega me warmups. Jumbotron appearances. Each and every save. Florida fans know how important the veteran goaltender is to their team. So do the Panthers. It’s why Florida never appeared rattled during its third straight Stanley Cup Final run. The defending champion Panthers remained even-keeled, never looking too far ahead, and certainly not harping on the past — mirroring the attitude of their unflappable two-time Vezina trophy-winning goaltender.

Singer Taylor Swift and her boyfriend Travis Kelce watch Game 4 of the NHL hockey Stanley Cup Final between the Florida Panthers and the Edmonton Oilers,Thursday, June 12, 2025, in Sunrise, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce attend Game 4 of Stanley Cup Final between Panthers and Oilers

June 13, 2025

Pop superstar Taylor Swift and boyfriend Travis Kelce were among the celebrities that flocked to Amerant Bank Arena to watch Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final between the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers. Kelce, a Super Bowl-winning tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, is a known hockey fan along with his brother Jason Kelce. And ever since Swift and Kelce began their high-profile romance in 2023, the 14-time Grammy Award winning singer has been known to pop in on big sporting events — including the last two Super Bowls — and cause an excited frenzy for fans.

Panthers build and then squander a 3-goal lead against Oilers in Game 4 of Stanley Cup Final

June 13, 2025

The Florida Panthers were up 3-0 in Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Edmonton Oilers. But, they lost. Matthew Tkachuk and the stars of the defending champion Panthers smothered the Oilers in the first period. Edmonton’s veterans responded fiercely — scoring four straight to take a 4-3 lead. After the Panthers forced overtime, Oilers star Leon Draisaitl scored the winner. What initially looked like an easy victory that would put Florida one win away from clinching a second straight Stanley Cup Final turned into a huge collapse that has the series tied 2-2 heading back to Edmonton.

FILE - Plastic toy rats litter the ice after the Florida Panthers scored during the third period of Game 1 of the NHL hockey Stanley Cup Finals against the Edmonton Oilers, Saturday, June 8, 2024, in Sunrise, Fla. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee, File)

Brad Marchand embraces Panthers’ rat-throwing tradition, which goes back 30 years

June 10, 2025

There’s a giant, gold-outlined rat emblazoned on the hat that dangles in Brad Marchand’s locker. The scrappy NHL veteran has been likened to the tiny rodent for much of his career, notoriously known as “The Rat” among hockey fans. So when Marchand was traded from Boston to Florida back in March, it didn’t take long for him to embrace Panthers fans’ tradition of tossing plastic rats onto the ice after wins. After the Panthers routed the Edmonton Oilers 6-1 on Monday in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final, rats rained down in a tradition that has last lasted 30 years.

Florida Panthers center Sam Bennett (9) scores a goal against Edmonton Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner (74) during the second period of Game 3 of the NHL Stanley Cup final Monday, June 9, 2025, in Sunrise, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

From a massive hit to a breakaway goal: Sam Bennett’s unforgettable moment in the Stanley Cup Final

June 9, 2025

In a single shift, Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett showed why he’s been one of the most unstoppable players in the Stanley Cup playoffs. In Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final, Bennett knocked Vasily Podkolzin off his feet with a huge hit in the defensive zone, then buried a breakaway goal on the other end moments later. After the goal, which put the Florida Panthers up 4-1 in the second period against the Edmonton Oilers on Monday night, Bennett pumped his fist and hugged teammate Matthew Tkachuk, whose mouth was wide open, as if neither could believe what had just happened.

Miami Marlins manager Clayton McCullough wears a Florida Panthers cap before a baseball game against the San Francisco Giants, Friday, May 30, 2025, in Miami. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

South Florida pro sports teams are inspired by the success of the Florida Panthers

June 8, 2025

The Panthers are in the Stanley Cup Final for the third straight year. They’re three wins away from defending their 2024 title. The Panthers went from winning just 25 playoff games in their first 28 seasons combined to winning more than 40 — and counting — in the past three seasons. And their general manager, Bill Zito, has been in conversations for GM of the Year for several seasons after building title-contending rosters year after year. They’re the pinnacle of success in South Florida, and other pro sports teams in the region have taken notice.

After 2 overtime games, Panthers and Oilers relish days off as Stanley Cup Final shifts to Florida

June 7, 2025

The first two games of the Stanley Cup Final have gone to overtime, only the sixth time in NHL history that’s happened and first since 2014. Game 1 went on until Leon Draisaitl’s power play goal 19:29 into the extra period. Marchand put Game 2 to an end with a breakaway goal 8:07 into the second overtime. With the series tied 1-1, both teams will embark on a cross-continent trip from Canada to Florida, enjoying an extra day’s rest between games to recover after a intense start to their championship series. Game 3 is Monday night in Sunrise, Florida.

Giants’ pitching is winning games despite the team’s offensive woes

June 1, 2025

Runs have been hard to come by lately for the San Francisco Giants. The good news is their pitching staff has made it just as difficult for opponents to score them. San Francisco ended may with a Major League-best 2.64 ERA, while going 14 straight games without scoring more than four runs. That theme continued in their series against the Miami Marlins, where they took two of three in South Florida. The Giants (33-26) reached the four-run threshold just once, in Sunday’s 4-2 win, while limiting the Marlins to just three runs over the three-game series.

Luis Matos’ 3-run homer powers Giants to 4-2 win over Marlins

June 1, 2025

Luis Matos hit a three-run home run and the San Francisco Giants beat the Miami Marlins 4-2. After Wilmer Flores knocked in a run with a groundout in the second inning, Matos connected on a 2-0 changeup from Ryan Weathers (1-1) in the third that traveled 390 feet to left-center and gave the Giants a 4-0 lead. San Francisco did not score after that, marking the 14th straight games the Giants have failed to score more than four runs. Hayden Birdsong struck out five and allowed five hits and one run in his second start in San Francisco’s rotation.

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi (10) reacts after scoring a goal during the first half of an MLS soccer match against CF Montreal, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Messi scores twice, assists in Miami’s 4-2 win over Montreal

May 28, 2025

Lionel Messi scored twice and had an assist, and Inter Miami broke out of its slump with a 4-2 rout of Montreal. Messi scored in the 27th and 87th minutes and set up Luis Suárez’s goal with some nice dribbling in the 68th minute on Wednesday. Suárez added another in the 71st. The win gave Messi’s slumping Inter Miami team just its second victory in its past eight contests. Miami last won a match on May 3, going 0-2-2 since then and dropping to sixth in the Eastern Conference. Dante Sealy and Victor Loturi scored for Montreal.

Tyreek Hill: ‘I’ve got to prove myself’ to Dolphins after last season’s frustrations

May 28, 2025

Tyreek Hill said he has to prove to the Miami Dolphins that they can depend on him as a committed leader after his comments at the end of last season indicating that he wants to play somewhere else. Hill has spent the offseason rehabbing two wrist procedures and said he’s focused on putting last season’s frustrations behind him while achieving his goal of surpassing 2,000 yards receiving. Additionally, the Dolphins are still pursuing trade options for cornerback Jalen Ramsey. Coach Mike McDaniel declined to give details on why the relationship deteriorated.

ALANIS THAMES Sports Writer.