GREG BEACHAM Sports Writer, Author at The Rapid City Post

Team Austin guard Alijah Martin (55) of the Toronto Raptors, right, shoots as Team Melo frontcourt Donovan Clingan (23) of the Portland Trail Blazers defends during an NBA basketball's Rising Stars event Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Philly special: V.J. Edgecombe leads Team Vince to victory at NBA All-Star weekend’s Rising Stars

February 13, 2026

Philadelphia rookie V.J. Edgecombe led Team Vince to victory at the Rising Stars event at NBA All-Star weekend. He was named the event’s MVP after scoring 17 points in the semifinal and hitting two free throws to end the final. San Antonio guard Dylan Harper ended the first semifinal in memorable fashion by scoring the game-winning bucket over Ron Harper Jr., his older brother. Dylan Harper then scored eight points in the final for Team Melo. Stephon Castle made a putback dunk off Jeremiah Fears’ miss to pull Team Melo within one point, but Edgecombe hit two free throws to end it at 25-24.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James gestures after he scored during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Washington Wizards, Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

LeBron James returns for his record 21st All-Star Game, still in the NBA’s midseason spotlight at 41

February 13, 2026

For two solid decades, LeBron James was a main attraction at every NBA All-Star weekend. He was a 20-year-old starter in his All-Star debut back in 2005, and he became the youngest MVP of the game just one year later. Never begging off due to injury or exhaustion while his less-accomplished teammates enjoyed their breaks from the season’s grind, James dutifully appeared in every midseason showcase until 2025. Now 41, James will be back this weekend for the All-Star Game at Intuit Dome south of central Los Angeles, spending another Sunday in February under the spotlight while extending his records for the most All-Star selections and All-Star appearances.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James smiles as he tries to pass during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Dallas Mavericks, Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

LeBron James becomes the oldest player to have a triple-double in NBA history

February 12, 2026

LeBron James became the oldest player in NBA history to have a triple-double, accomplishing the feat for the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday night against the Dallas Mavericks. James had 28 points and 12 assists when he grabbed his 10th rebound with 2:06 to play in the Lakers’ 124-104 victory. James got a standing ovation when he checked out moments after grabbing his final rebound to complete his 123rd career triple-double, fifth-most in NBA history. At 41 years and 44 days old, James broke the record held by Karl Malone, who recorded a triple-double for the Lakers when he was 40 years and 127 days old.

Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard looks for a foul to be called by officials during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Phoenix Suns Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

No longer losers, the Clippers still host NBA All-Star weekend amid a season of vintage team chaos

February 11, 2026

This NBA All-Star weekend is supposed to be a triumphant milestone in the Los Angeles Clippers’ transformation from the epitome of pro sports loserdom into a consistent winner with a spectacular arena and the sport’s richest owner. Instead, the Clippers have reached this crowning moment in the middle of a chaotic season that’s evoking memories of the bad old days, featuring wildly inconsistent play, confounding trades, an ugly public breakup with a franchise icon and a league investigation into the team and its biggest star, Kawhi Leonard.

San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) descends after making a dunk as Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bufkin (18) looks on during the first half of an NBA basketball game Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

Victor Wembanyama says he was ‘proving a point’ with his 40-point barrage in Spurs’ win over Lakers

February 11, 2026

Victor Wembanyama began his 40-point performance against the Lakers with a 25-point first quarter. That relentless start was a direct message from both the San Antonio Spurs and their young superstar. Wembanyama is tired of the Spurs playing poorly against lesser opponents, and he took it on himself personally to make spectacularly quick work of a Lakers lineup missing nearly all of Los Angeles’ best players, saying he was “proving my team a point.” He went on to a 37-point first half while leading San Antonio to a 30-point lead over the Lakers minus Luka Doncic, LeBron James and Austin Reaves.

San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) is double-teamed by Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) and guard Luke Kennard (10) during the first half of an NBA basketball game Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

Victor Wembanyama scores 37 of 40 in 1st half, leading Spurs to 136-108 win over short-handed Lakers

February 10, 2026

Victor Wembanyama scored 37 of his season high-tying 40 points in the first half and the San Antonio Spurs beat the short-handed Los Angeles Lakers 136-108 for their fifth straight victory. Wembanyama had the highest-scoring first half in the NBA this season while going 12 of 17 from the field with three 3-pointers against a Lakers lineup missing Luka Doncic, LeBron James and Austin Reaves. Wembanyama played only the first eight minutes of the second half with the Spurs far ahead in their 10th win in 13 games. Carter Bryant scored a career-high 16 points for the Spurs.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts after making a dunk during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Oklahoma City Thunder Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

LeBron James will sit for Lakers vs Spurs, taking him out of consideration for 22nd All-NBA honors

February 10, 2026

LeBron James will sit out of the Los Angeles Lakers’ game against the San Antonio Spurs due to left foot arthritis. The decision will prevent him from qualifying for consideration for his 22nd straight appearance on an All-NBA team. James has been one of the three All-NBA postseason teams in each of his last 21 seasons, but this game will be the 18th that he has missed this season. Players must play in at least 65 games to be considered for end-of-season awards under the NBA’s current rules. Los Angeles is also holding out Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.

Philadelphia 76ers forward Dominick Barlow, left, and Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic reach for a rebound during the first half of an NBA basketball game Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Luka Doncic leaves the Lakers’ game against the 76ers with an apparent leg injury

February 5, 2026

NBA scoring leader Luka Doncic left the Los Angeles Lakers’ game against Philadelphia on with an apparent leg injury. Doncic limped to the locker room with 3:03 left in the first half after apparently hurting his left leg on the far end of the court moments earlier. He didn’t return to the court when the second half began. Doncic leads the league with 33.4 points per game in his first full season with the Lakers. The Slovenian superstar is also second with 8.7 assists. He was also selected for his sixth All-Star game, voted in as a starter.

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay reacts as players warm up before the NFC Championship NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Stephen Brashear)

Sean McVay, GM Les Snead agree to multiyear contract extensions with the Rams

February 2, 2026

Coach Sean McVay and general manager Les Snead have agreed to multiyear contract extensions to stay with the Los Angeles Rams. McVay and Snead have led the Rams through one of the longest stretches of success in franchise history. The Rams are 92–57 in the regular season and 10–6 postseason in the playoffs since Snead and owner Stan Kroenke hired a then-30-year-old McVay in 2017, one year after the franchise returned home from St. Louis. The Rams immediately ended a 12-year playoff absence and reached the Super Bowl one year later before winning the franchise’s second Super Bowl title in February 2022.

Vegas Golden Knights right wing Jonas Rondbjerg, right, falls after being hit by Anaheim Ducks defenseman Jacob Trouba during the second period of an NHL hockey game Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Chris Kreider scores 2 goals, Ducks beat slumping Golden Knights 4-3 to sweep season series

February 1, 2026

Chris Kreider scored two goals, Lukas Dostal made 27 saves and the Anaheim Ducks swept their three-game season series against the Vegas Golden Knights with a 4-3 victory. Cutter Gauthier scored for the Duck. Anaheim earned its eighth victory in 10 games overall despite nearly blowing an early 3-0 lead. Mitch Marner and Ivan Barbashev scored goals in their third straight games for the Golden Knights, who have lost five straight and seven of eight. Vegas has two five-game skids since Christmas, with an 8-2-0 surge sandwiched between them.

Seattle Seahawks safety Nick Emmanwori, left, breaks up a pass intended for Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua (12) during the first half of the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Rams are still stunned, saddened after a standout season ended just short of another Super Bowl

January 26, 2026

The Los Angeles Rams could return next season with nearly every important contributor to a team that fell just a few big plays short of another trip to the Super Bowl, and they have the resources to add even more playmakers. That doesn’t make the current players feel any better about their agonizing 31-27 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC title game. These Rams realize they had a team good enough to be something truly special. Yet their future still looks bright, with nearly every important player on the current team able to return if the Rams desire.

Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel speaks in a news conference after an NFL football game against the New England Patriots in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)

Mike McDaniel joins Harbaugh, Herbert as Chargers’ offensive coordinator after Dolphins firing

January 26, 2026

Mike McDaniel has agreed to become the Los Angeles Chargers’ offensive coordinator. He spent the past four seasons as the Miami Dolphins’ head coach. McDaniel was fired less than three weeks ago after going 35-33 and missing the playoffs in the past two years. After interviewing for multiple head coaching jobs this month, McDaniel has agreed to join Jim Harbaugh with the Chargers, who finished their second straight 11-6 season under the veteran head coach with a second playoff exit in the wild-card round.

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay speaks during a news conference at the team's training facility Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, in Los Angeles, ahead of the NFL football NFC Championship game against the Seattle Seahawks. (AP Photo/Caroline Brehman)

Sean McVay turns 40 with a new perspective on football and the same dreams for his Los Angeles Rams

January 23, 2026

Sean McVay will spend his 40th birthday on Saturday in the exact same way he spent the vast majority of his 30s. He’ll be preparing the Los Angeles Rams to play their hearts out. This year, he’ll be working to get the Rams ready for the NFC championship game against Seattle. If they win, he’ll become the youngest head coach to reach three Super Bowls. McVay has been the “youngest” and the “first” to a jaw-dropping number of accomplishments since he took over the Rams as a 30-year-old prodigy. He’s still at the top of his profession, but the father of two young sons has a new perspective on what that means.

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Davante Adams (17) is tackled by Carolina Panthers linebacker Christian Rozeboom during the second half of an NFL wild-card playoff football game, Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Rusty Jones)

After 4 NFC title game losses with Packers, Davante Adams resumes chase of ‘mythical thing’ for Rams

January 21, 2026

Davante Adams reached the NFC championship game four times during his eight seasons with Aaron Rodgers and the Packers. Every single time, Green Bay came up just short of the Super Bowl. Adams still feels the pain, and he feels like the Super Bowl has become a “mythical thing” that he just can’t quite reach. After an ensuing three years spent nowhere near a Super Bowl, Adams is back for his fifth shot when his Los Angeles Rams visit the Seattle Seahawks for another NFC title game. Adams clearly means it when he says team success is the only thing that still matters to him.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) shoots over Toronto Raptors guard Ochai Agbaji (30) during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Los Angeles, Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)

Luka, LeBron get the Lakers back into form in a 110-93 victory over the Raptors

January 18, 2026

Luka Doncic had 25 points and seven assists, LeBron James added 24 points and seven assists, and the Los Angeles Lakers returned to form with a 110-93 victory over the Toronto Raptors. Deandre Ayton had 25 points and 13 rebounds in his impressive return from a knee injury for the Lakers, who won for just the second time in seven games while playing their final home game before an eight-game, 15-day road trip. Scottie Barnes had 22 points and nine rebounds for the Raptors, who have lost back-to-back games for the first time in four weeks.

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay congratulates linebacker Jared Verse (8) after he blocked a field goal attempt and returned it for a touchdown in the second half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Caleb Williams presents an elusive challenge for Jared Verse, Rams’ defense in their playoff meeting

January 16, 2026

When Jared Verse begins to elaborate on the methodology of sacking Caleb Williams, it’s obvious the Los Angeles Rams star edge rusher has been thinking about this monumental task quite a bit. Williams’ clutch playmaking has driven the Bears to the NFC North title and homefield advantage in their divisional round visit from the Rams. LA’s success in containing the former Southern California star will be a determining factor in this matchup. Particularly in the fourth quarter, when two quarterbacks known for late comebacks seem likely to be trading big plays in the Chicago cold.

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) walks off the field after a win over the Carolina Panthers in an NFL wild-card playoff football game, Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Erik Verduzco)

Matthew Stafford is healthy, but Rams CB Ahkello Witherspoon is out for season after playoff injury

January 12, 2026

Quarterback Matthew Stafford is expected to play for the Los Angeles Rams this weekend after tests revealed only a sprain of the index finger on his throwing hand. Stafford injured his finger in the first half of the Rams’ 34-31 victory over the Panthers last Saturday when he banged his hand into the arm of a Carolina defender on a follow-through. The MVP candidate was able to play through the injury, and coach Sean McVay says Stafford will be “good to go” when Los Angeles faces Chicago in the divisional round on Sunday.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic, left, and Milwaukee Bucks guard Kevin Porter Jr. go after a loose ball during the first half of an NBA basketball game Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Giannis stops LeBron twice in the final minute as the Bucks rally to beat the Lakers 105-101

January 9, 2026

Giannis Antetokounmpo blocked a shot by LeBron James and stole the ball from him on consecutive possessions in the final minute, and the Milwaukee Bucks blew a fourth-quarter lead before rallying for a 105-101 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. Kevin Porter Jr. scored 22 points, and he hit two free throws to break a tie after Antetokounmpo blocked a driving layup attempt by James with 39 seconds left. Antetokounmpo then knocked the ball out of James’ hands from behind with 2 seconds left, and Porter hit two more free throws to seal Milwaukee’s fifth win in seven games. Luka Doncic had 24 points for the Lakers.

Indiana wide receiver Elijah Sarratt (13) celebrates after a win over Alabama in the Rose Bowl College Football Playoff quarterfinal game Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)

Indiana and Oregon to meet again at the Peach Bowl with a spot in the CFP title game on the line

January 2, 2026

Indiana and Oregon will meet in the Peach Bowl next week for a College Football Playoff semifinal. Neither school has ever won a national championship. The winner in Atlanta will be the favorite to accomplish that feat in the national title game on Jan. 19. The Hoosiers beat the Ducks in Eugene three months ago before going on to the Big Ten title and a blowout victory over Alabama in the Rose Bowl as the CFP’s No. 1 seed. Oregon has won eight consecutive games since that loss to Indiana, capped by a 23-0 pasting of Texas Tech in the Orange Bowl.

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua (12) celebrates his touchdown with quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) in the second half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Rams need a playoff tune-up, so their starters will roll in the finale against freefalling Cardinals

January 2, 2026

The Los Angeles Rams have secured another playoff berth and their regular-season finale can have only a small impact on their seeding. When faced with such a situation in past seasons, Los Angeles coach Sean McVay has rested every starter possible. He would preserve his players’ health for the playoff tests ahead, not caring about the result. So the fact nobody healthy is sitting out when the Rams host the Arizona Cardinals is a clear indicator of McVay’s frustration and disappointment with his team’s two-game swoon.

Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, left, fumbles as he is hit by Indiana defensive back D'Angelo Ponds (5) during the first half of the Rose Bowl College Football Playoff quarterfinal game Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Alabama QB Ty Simpson says a cracked rib sidelined him in 2nd half of blowout Rose Bowl loss

January 1, 2026

Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson says a cracked rib sidelined him in the second half of the Crimson Tide’s 38-3 loss to top-seeded Indiana in the Rose Bowl. Simpson got hurt when an Indiana player’s helmet hit him in the torso and caused a fumble after he made a courageous scramble through the Hoosiers’ defense for a first down late in the first half. He had an X-ray at halftime that revealed the injury, Simpson said after the College Football Playoff quarterfinal ended. Simpson acknowledged that he might have tried to do too much on that play after he came up one yard short of a first down on an earlier run.

Indiana wide receiver Elijah Sarratt (13) makes a touchdown catch past Alabama defensive back Dijon Lee Jr. (5) during the second half of the Rose Bowl College Football Playoff quarterfinal game Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)

Top-seeded Indiana routs Alabama 38-3 for its first Rose Bowl victory, roaring into CFP semifinals

January 1, 2026

Fernando Mendoza threw three touchdown passes, Indiana’s defense thoroughly throttled Alabama, and the top-seeded Hoosiers roared into the College Football Playoff semifinals with a 38-3 victory in the 112th Rose Bowl. Mendoza passed for 192 yards in his first game since winning his school’s first Heisman Trophy, but the hard-nosed Hoosiers won the Rose Bowl for the first time in school history by dominating the Crimson Tide at the line of scrimmage. Indiana scored the game’s first 24 points before pouring it on with fourth-quarter rushing TDs from Kaelon Black and Roman Hemby, wrapping up a jubilant win in the 112th edition of the Granddaddy of Them All.

FILE - Los Angeles Rams safety Quentin Lake (37) jogs back to the locker room before an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong, File)

Versatile safety Quentin Lake agrees to a 3-year contract extension with the Los Angeles Rams

January 1, 2026

The Los Angeles Rams have agreed to a three-year contract extension with Quentin Lake. The do-it-all defensive back has become a key component of their defense over the past four seasons. The son of former Pittsburgh Steelers star Carnell Lake seized a prominent role on the Rams’ defense in 2023, and he currently serves as a team captain and defensive signal-caller. Depending on the situation, Lake can be seen lining up as a slot cornerback, a run defender in the box or a patrolling safety at the back of the defense. He is the first defensive draft pick to get a contract extension from the Rams since Aaron Donald.

Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) looks to pass the ball while being guarded by Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) during the first half of an NBA basketball game Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Caroline Brehman)

LeBron James loses on his 41st birthday as Cunningham leads the Pistons past the Lakers, 128-106

December 30, 2025

LeBron James scored 17 points on his 41st birthday, but Cade Cunningham had 27 points and 11 assists while leading the Detroit Pistons to a 128-106 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. James hit three 3-pointers and added four assists and four rebounds in the 1,577th regular-season game of his unprecedented 23rd season, but he spent the final minutes of his birthday game sitting with his arms folded on the bench. The top scorer in league history is the 12th player to appear in an NBA game at 41 or older. Marcus Sasser scored 19 points and Isaiah Stewart had 15 for the Eastern Conference-leading Pistons.

FILE - Los Angeles Angels' Anthony Rendon sprints to third during a baseball game against the Texas Rangers, Sept. 6, 2024, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez, File)

Angels third baseman Anthony Rendon agrees to restructure final year of his $245 million contract

December 30, 2025

Anthony Rendon has agreed to restructure the final year of his $245 million, seven-year contract with the Los Angeles Angels, a person with knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the Angels hadn’t announced any developments with Rendon, who didn’t play last season following hip surgery. The team and Rendon have amended the deal to restructure the remaining $38 million owed in 2026, presumably spreading the money over time.

Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) answers questions during a press conference ahead of Thursday's Rose Bowl College Football Playoff against Alabama Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

Role reversals: Alabama returns to the Rose Bowl as a CFP underdog to face powerhouse Indiana

December 30, 2025

Nick Saban coached his final game for Alabama just two years ago in the Rose Bowl when his Crimson Tide lost to Michigan. Alabama is returning to that storied turf this week as underdogs against unbeaten Indiana, which has become the sport’s newest powerhouse in the two years since the Saban era ended. Alabama is in the Playoff for the first time under coach Kalen DeBoer, who realizes he’ll never win over his new fan base without a strong national title run. It’s a decade too soon to know whether Curt Cignetti is building the sport’s next titan, but there’s no denying his first two seasons have been more impressive than Saban’s start at Alabama.

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Davante Adams (17) makes a catch over Detroit Lions cornerback D.J. Reed (4) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Katie Chin)

Injured Davante Adams not ruled out by McVay for Rams’ Thursday night showdown with Seahawks

December 16, 2025

Receiver Davante Adams hasn’t been ruled out for the Los Angeles Rams’ showdown at Seattle on Thursday night despite his hamstring injury. Coach Sean McVay said the NFC-leading Rams likely will wait until game time to make a final decision on the availability of the NFL’s touchdown receptions leader. The team remains hopeful Adams can play, although he won’t participate in their walk-throughs and practice Tuesday. Adams got hurt while running a long route in the fourth quarter of the Rams’ 41-34 comeback win over the Detroit Lions.

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) throws a pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Katie Chin)

Matthew Stafford rallies Rams to 41-34 victory over Lions, clinching another playoff berth

December 14, 2025

Matthew Stafford passed for 368 yards and hit Colby Parkinson for two touchdowns, and the NFC-leading Los Angeles Rams clinched a playoff berth with a furious second-half rally for a 41-34 victory over the Detroit Lions. Kyren Williams rushed for two scores and Blake Corum added another TD for the Rams, who came back from a double-digit deficit shortly before halftime with 20 consecutive points before securing their eighth victory in nine games. Amon-Ra St. Brown scorched his hometown team for 163 yards and two touchdowns on 13 receptions for the Lions. Detroit has alternated wins and losses since Week 5.

Washington tight end Quentin Moore (88) celebrates his touchdown during the second half of the LA Bowl NCAA college football game against Boise State Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)

Williams throws 4 TD passes and Washington has 5 INTs in 38-10 rout of Boise State in LA Bowl

December 13, 2025

Demond Williams Jr. threw three of his four touchdown passes in the second quarter, and Washington had five interceptions as the Huskies kicked off bowl season with a 38-10 victory over Boise State in the LA Bowl. Denzel Boston made a 78-yard TD catch for Washington’s first score before Dezmen Roebuck, Raiden Vines-Bright and Quentin Moore caught TD passes for the Huskies in the school’s fourth victory in its last five bowl games. Coach Jedd Fisch’s Huskies had no players opt out of bowl participation from their solid Big Ten roster, and it showed in their overwhelming performance against the Mountain West champion Broncos.

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford is sacked by Carolina Panthers safety Lathan Ransom during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 30, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Jacob Kupferman)

Rams QB Matthew Stafford has already moved past the 3-turnover game that slowed his standout season

December 3, 2025

Matthew Stafford’s 192 career interceptions are the most among active quarterbacks. He has also fumbled 91 times in his 17-year NFL career. So his three crucial turnovers in the Los Angeles Rams’ 31-28 loss to Carolina aren’t going to send Stafford into a funk or a crisis of competence. Stafford knows his two interceptions and a late fumble were the biggest reasons why the Rams lost to the Panthers and fell out of the No. 1 spot in the NFC standings. There’s still nothing he’ll do much differently when he leads Los Angeles to Arizona this weekend.

Phoenix Suns forward Ryan Dunn, top, dunks as Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic, left, forward Jake LaRavia, second from left, and forward Rui Hachimura, second from right, defends as forward Nigel Hayes-Davis watches during the first half of an NBA basketball game Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Suns snap Lakers’ 7-game winning streak with 125-108 victory despite Booker’s early exit

December 1, 2025

Dillon Brooks scored 33 points, Collin Gillespie added 16 of his career-high 28 in the fourth quarter, and the Phoenix Suns emphatically snapped the Los Angeles Lakers’ seven-game winning streak with a 125-108 victory. Devin Booker scored 11 points before leaving with two minutes left in the first quarter with a right groin injury, yet the Suns improbably played a remarkable game in their leading scorer’s absence. Gillespie hit a career-best eight 3-pointers for Phoenix, which had lost three of four. The Suns forced 22 turnovers and streaked to a 21-point lead in the third quarter, blowing out Los Angeles despite Luka Doncic’s 38 points.

Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams scores against the Carolina Panthers during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 30, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Jacob Kupferman)

LA Rams’ surprising loss to Panthers contained no reasons for concern, Sean McVay insists

December 1, 2025

The Los Angeles Rams’ tenure atop the NFC standings ended quickly with their most surprising loss of the season by far. Coach Sean McVay says he saw nothing to change his optimistic outlook for the rest of the season. The main areas in which the Rams struggled in their rain-soaked, 31-28 loss to the Carolina Panthers hadn’t been big areas of concern for McVay’s team before this game, and he doesn’t think the problems will linger. Two areas of struggle stood out: The Los Angeles defense’s inability to stop Carolina’s steady rushing attack, and Matthew Stafford’s three turnovers.

Las Vegas Raiders safety Jeremy Chinn (11) tackles Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 30, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

QB Justin Herbert breaks bone in left hand, but he’s optimistic about playing for Chargers next week

November 30, 2025

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert will have surgery Monday to repair a broken bone in his non-throwing hand. Herbert is optimistic about his chances to play next week for the Chargers, who beat the Raiders 31-14 for their fourth victory in five games. Herbert played the final three quarters against Las Vegas with a hard cast on his left hand while exclusively taking shotgun snaps. Herbert wasn’t sure when his hand was broken, but it appeared to happen late in the Chargers’ opening drive when he was thrown to the ground by Raiders safety Jeremy Chinn.

Injured Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis, center, sits on the bench during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Memphis Grizzlies in Dallas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/LM Otero)

Mavs’ Anthony Davis gets cheers and another loss in his return to LA after a 14-game injury absence

November 29, 2025

Anthony Davis returned to Los Angeles on the same night he came back from a 14-game injury absence, and he received loud pregame cheers from Lakers fans who were thrilled to see a longtime favorite healthy and hooping. The star big man’s first road game against the Lakers since being traded for Luka Doncic 10 months ago still ended with another loss for his struggling Dallas Mavericks. But Davis didn’t seem discouraged after putting up 12 points, five rebounds, five assists and a memorable blocked shot on LeBron James while playing on a minutes restriction.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) shoots as Dallas Mavericks forward Naji Marshall (13) defends during the first half of an NBA Cup basketball game in Los Angeles, Friday, Nov. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)

Reaves scores 38 points, Luka adds 35, Lakers hold off Mavs 129-119 in Anthony Davis’ LA return

November 28, 2025

The Lakers spoiled Anthony Davis’ return to Los Angeles with a 129-119 victory over the Dallas Mavericks. Austin Reaves scored 38 points, and Luka Doncic added 35 points and 11 assists in his third meeting with his former team. Davis had 12 points and five rebounds in his first game in Los Angeles since the Lakers traded him for Doncic 10 months ago. LeBron James scored 13 points after managing just two in the first half of his fourth game of the season, but he hit a decisive 3-pointer with two minutes to play.

Los Angeles Clippers guard Kris Dunn (8) is pushed by Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) after Dunn shoved the ball into Luka Doncic's chest during the second half of an NBA Cup basketball game Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

Doncic criticizes the NBA Cup court, but praises Lakers for support in late-game skirmish with Dunn

November 26, 2025

Luka Doncic was not pleased by the special NBA Cup court at the Los Angeles Lakers’ downtown arena, calling it “slippery” and “dangerous.” The Slovenian superstar was much happier about the Lakers’ togetherness and toughness after Jaxson Hayes stuck up for him in his latest confrontation with nemesis Kris Dunn. He also plans to pay Hayes’ fine for the resulting technical foul. Doncic had 43 points, 13 assists and nine rebounds during a 135-118 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers, but he didn’t feel safe on the new yellow court.

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford passes against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Stafford and Adams connect for 2 more TDs while NFC-leading Rams roll to 34-7 win over Buccaneers

November 23, 2025

The Los Angeles Rams scored 31 points in the first half and moved into sole possession of the NFC lead with a 34-7 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Davante Adams caught two of Matthew Stafford’s three touchdown passes, while Cobie Durant returned an interception 50 yards for a touchdown to kick-start a dominant performance in the Rams’ sixth consecutive victory. Stafford went 25 of 35 for 273 yards in his eighth consecutive interception-free game. Baker Mayfield threw two interceptions before sitting out the second half with a left shoulder injury for the Buccaneers, who have lost three straight.

FILE - Los Angeles Dodgers owner and chairman Mark Walter speaks during a ceremony to honor the Major League Baseball 2024 World Series Champion team in the East Room of the White House, Monday, April 7, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File)

Lakers fire Joey Buss, Jesse Buss from front office positions after ownership change

November 20, 2025

Joey Buss and Jesse Buss are no longer working in the Los Angeles Lakers’ front office after the franchise’s recent ownership change. That’s according to a person with knowledge of the move who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Thursday because the Lakers didn’t publicly announce the firings. The brothers are children of longtime Lakers owner Jerry Buss, who died in 2013. The Lakers are also overhauling the scouting staff that worked with the brothers, who will retain their inherited minority ownership stakes. Jesse Buss was an assistant general manager, while Joey Buss was the Lakers’ alternate governor and vice president of research and development.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts to a three-point basket by guard Gabe Vincent during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Utah Jazz Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

LeBron James begins his record 23rd NBA season with stellar playmaking in Lakers’ win over Jazz

November 19, 2025

LeBron James certainly didn’t look like he had been away from an NBA court for nearly seven months when he began his unprecedented 23rd season, even if his burning lungs told him otherwise. After reaching another landmark in what is now officially the longest career in league history, James was not surprised to return from his lengthy injury absence by fitting in seamlessly with the surging Los Angeles Lakers in yet another victory. James had 11 points, 12 assists and three rebounds while starting and playing 29 minutes in the Lakers’ 140-126 win over the Utah Jazz, kicking off his new season with an impressive playmaking performance.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) watch from the bench during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Portland Trail Blazers, Monday, Oct. 27, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope)

LeBron James returns to practice with Lakers but hasn’t decided whether to make season debut Tuesday

November 17, 2025

LeBron James returned to practice with the Los Angeles Lakers and is waiting to see how he feels before deciding whether to make his season debut Tuesday. When James returns to Los Angeles’ lineup, he will become the first player in NBA history to play in 23 seasons. James hadn’t worked out with the Lakers since he developed sciatica around the start of training camp in late September, missing a season opener for the first time in his basketball career. The top scorer in NBA history rejoined the Lakers on Monday after their return from a five-game road trip.

Southern California quarterback Jayden Maiava gestures to teammates during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Iowa, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

No. 17 Southern California scores final 19 points, keeps CFP hopes alive with 26-21 win over Iowa

November 15, 2025

Makai Lemon made 10 catches for 153 yards and a second-half touchdown, and No. 17 Southern California scored 19 unanswered points to keep its College Football Playoff hopes alive with a 26-21 victory over Iowa. Jayden Maiava passed for 254 yards and Bryan Jackson rushed for two touchdowns for the Trojans, who faced their largest deficit of the season when they trailed 21-7 late in the second quarter at a rain-soaked Coliseum. USC mounted five consecutive scoring drives, capped by Jackson’s go-ahead TD run with 13:36 to play.

FILE - Los Angeles Rams offensive tackle Alaric Jackson (77) gets in position during the first half of an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Oct. 12, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams, File)

Rams LT Alaric Jackson will play Sunday after being sued over sex video

November 14, 2025

Left tackle Alaric Jackson will play for the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday after being sued this week by a woman who alleges he recorded sexual acts with her on his phone without her consent. Rams head coach Sean McVay said the team won’t suspend or remove Jackson from its lineup before Los Angeles hosts the Seattle Seahawks. Jackson was suspended for the first two games of the 2024 season for an undisclosed violation of the NFL’s personal conduct policy, but the reason was not publicly revealed until the woman filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court.

Southern California running back King Miller, left, breaks a tackle by Northwestern linebacker Mac Uihlein during the first half of an NCAA college football game Friday, Nov. 7, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

A walk-on at Tailback U., King Miller has seized a historic job and a starring role at No. 17 USC

November 12, 2025

King Miller is starring as a walk-on tailback at No. 17 Southern California. He has topped 100 yards rushing in three of his four games since becoming Tailback U.’s primary ball-carrier. He has broken five runs longer than 40 yards, and he has been one of the nation’s most effective running backs after contact. Miller has already cracked the top 10 in the Big Ten in rushing with 636 yards and a whopping 7.9 yards per carry despite being 25th in rushing attempts. King Miller has been dreaming of wearing USC’s cardinal and gold as long as he can remember.

Lemon scores through air, on ground in No. 20 USC’s 38-17 win over Northwestern

November 7, 2025

No. 20 Southern California stayed in the College Football Playoff race with a 38-17 victory over Northwestern. Makai Lemon had a touchdown catch and a scoring run while making 11 receptions for a career-high 161 yards. Jayden Maiava passed for 299 yards and hit Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane for TDs as the Trojans remained unbeaten at the Coliseum this season. King Miller also rushed for 127 yards and a touchdown. Preston Stone passed for 150 yards and Caleb Komolafe rushed for 118 yards and a score for the Wildcats, who lost for just the second time in six games.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James, left, and guard Luka Doncic, center, celebrate as forward Jarred Vanderbilt, right, looks on during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Miami Heat, Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jessie Alcheh)

LeBron James ready for contact basketball activity as he works toward season debut for Lakers

November 6, 2025

LeBron James is ready for contact basketball activity, and he will be re-evaluated by the Los Angeles Lakers’ team physician in one to two weeks as he prepares to begin his unprecedented 23rd NBA season. James has yet to play this season or practice with the Lakers after being shut down early in training camp because of sciatica. The next step in his recovery is five-on-five basketball work in practice, but it’s unclear when that could begin because the Lakers are headed out on a five-game road trip. The Lakers have played remarkably well in James’ absence, stoking fans’ excitement about being a possible contender.

Los Angeles Rams tight end Davis Allen (87) is tackled by New Orleans Saints cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry (4) and safety Julian Blackmon (28) in the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Katie Chin)

Rams are looking like a Super Bowl contender behind Stafford’s offense and a surging defense

November 3, 2025

Although Sean McVay has created nearly continual success during his nine seasons in charge of the Los Angeles Rams, his team hasn’t looked this good at midseason since its Super Bowl championship run four years ago. Sure, that’s not a very high bar to clear. The Rams got off to ice-cold starts in the past three seasons before heating up to make two playoff runs. But from Matthew Stafford’s MVP-level play on a balanced offense to the increasingly impressive shutdown efforts from a rebuilding defense, the Rams have a clear identity and a good chance to contend for their third Super Bowl trip during McVay’s remarkable tenure.

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua (12) pulls in a touchdown pass against New Orleans Saints cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry (4) and safety Justin Reid (21) in the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Matthew Stafford hits Davante Adams with 2 of his 4 TD passes while the Rams rout the Saints, 34-10

November 2, 2025

Matthew Stafford threw for 281 yards and hit Davante Adams with two of his four touchdown passes in the Los Angeles Rams’ 34-10 victory over the struggling New Orleans Saints. Puka Nacua had seven catches for 95 yards and a touchdown in his return from an ankle injury. The Rams returned from their bye with 438 yards and another strong defensive effort, allowing only 224 yards in their third consecutive win. Tyler Shough passed for 176 yards in his first NFL start for the Saints (1-8), who are on their second four-game skid of the season. He threw his first career TD pass to Juwan Johnson 7 seconds before halftime.

New Jersey Devils center Nico Hischier (13) and right wing Arseny Gritsyuk (81) celebrate after Hischier scored a goal during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Los Angeles Kings, Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jessie Alcheh)

Halonen scores 1st NHL goal, Markstrom excels in Devils’ 4-1 rebound victory over the LA Kings

November 1, 2025

Brian Halonen scored his first NHL goal and Jacob Markstrom celebrated his two-year contract extension with 42 saves in the New Jersey Devils’ 4-1 victory over the Los Angeles Kings. Dawson Mercer got two short-handed goals and Nico Hischier also scored in a strong bounce-back effort by the Devils, who had lost two straight while allowing 13 goals following an eight-game winning streak. Andrei Kuzmenko scored midway through the third period for the Kings, and Darcy Kuemper stopped 18 shots while the Kings’ seven-game point streak ended.

Mark Walter finalizes his purchase of a majority stake in the Los Angeles Lakers

October 30, 2025

Mark Walter is the majority owner of the Los Angeles Lakers after the NBA Board of Governors approved his purchase of a controlling stake from the Buss family. The Lakers and the league confirmed the next step Thursday in a transaction that is expected to close shortly. The sale of the NBA’s most valuable franchise was initially announced in June. Jeanie Buss will remain the Lakers’ governor under the deal for at least the next five years, and she will oversee day-to-day operations “for the foreseeable future,” the team said.

Toronto Blue Jays' Davis Schneider (36) celebrates with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. after their back-to-back home runs during the first inning in Game 5 of baseball's World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)

Blue Jays hit first leadoff back-to-back homers in World Series history — on 3 pitches

October 29, 2025

The Toronto Blue Jays hit the first back-to-back homers to begin a game in World Series history Wednesday night when Davis Schneider and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. connected on the first and third pitches by the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Blake Snell. Leadoff hitter Schneider delivered his first career playoff homer on Snell’s very first pitch in Game 5, hammering a high fastball to left. Guerrero then blasted an 0-1 fastball to left for his Blue Jays-record eighth homer of the postseason, hitting it 394 feet. The star slugger also homered in Game 4 of the World Series, connecting off Shohei Ohtani.

Toronto Blue Jays' George Springer strikes out during the eighth inning in Game 2 of baseball's World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, in Toronto. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Injured DH George Springer out of Blue Jays’ starting lineup for 2nd straight World Series game

October 29, 2025

George Springer is out of the Toronto Blue Jays’ starting lineup for the second straight game at the World Series due to an injury on his right side. Davis Schneider is the leadoff hitter and Bo Bichette is the designated hitter in place of Springer for Game 5 against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Toronto manager John Schneider said Wednesday that Springer could be available as a pinch hitter. The 36-year-old Springer strained muscles on his right side while taking a swing in the seventh inning of Game 3 on Monday night, immediately leaving the game.

Los Angeles Dodgers' Mookie Betts reacts after striking out against the Toronto Blue Jays to end Game 1 of baseball's World Series, Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, in Toronto. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Dodgers shuffle their slumping lineup for World Series Game 5, moving Betts down and benching Pages

October 29, 2025

The Los Angeles Dodgers have shuffled their slumping lineup for Game 5 of the World Series. Manager Dave Roberts notably moved Mookie Betts down in the order for the first time in four years and benched Andy Pages. Will Smith moves up to second behind Shohei Ohtani, while Betts moves to third and Freddie Freeman to fourth. Alex Call is in the lineup in place of Pages, who is 1 for 15 in the World Series and 4 for 50 with one RBI in the entire postseason. Call will play left field while Kiké Hernández moves to center.

Toronto Blue Jays' Vladimir Guerrero Jr. flips his bat after hitting a two run against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the third inning in Game 4 of baseball's World Series, Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)

Guerrero homers off Ohtani, Blue Jays even World Series with 6-2 win over Dodgers in Game 4

October 28, 2025

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit a two-run homer off Shohei Ohtani, Shane Bieber pitched four-hit ball into the sixth inning, and the Toronto Blue Jays shook off their epic 18-inning loss to even the World Series with a 6-2 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 4. Ohtani redefined the concept of short rest by taking the World Series mound just over 17 hours after he reached base nine times in Game 3, but he gave up four runs on six hits while pitching into the seventh inning. The Blue Jays reclaimed homefield advantage and guaranteed the World Series trophy will be won at Rogers Centre in Toronto.

Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani celebrates hit RBI-Double against the Toronto Blue Jays during the fifth inning in Game 3 of baseball's World Series, Monday, Oct. 27, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Another big Sho: Ohtani hits 2 homers, ties record with 4 extra-base hits in World Series Game 3

October 28, 2025

Shohei Ohtani homered twice and tied a 119-year-old major league record with four extra-base hits in Game 3 of the World Series. After his four-hit barrage in the first seven innings, Ohtani drew five consecutive walks in an epic 18-inning World Series game. He’s the first major leaguer in 83 years to reach base nine times in any game, let alone the postseason. The Dodgers finally won 6-5 on Freddie Freeman’s walk-off homer leading off the 18th.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic reacts against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jessie Alcheh)

The 40-40 club: Luka Doncic begins the Lakers’ new season with a pair of prolific performances

October 25, 2025

Luka Doncic has begun his first full season with the Lakers on a serious heater. The Slovenian superstar is off to one of the greatest starts to a season in NBA history, following up his 43-point effort on opening night against Golden State with a 49-point spree in Los Angeles’ victory over Minnesota on Friday. He’s the fourth player in NBA history to begin a season with back-to-back 40-point performances. He barely missed a triple-double twice, too. His 92 points are the most to start a season in the history of a team that has employed many of the greatest players ever to pick up a basketball.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) shoots against the Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert (27) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jessie Alcheh)

Luka Doncic scores 49 to extend his sizzling season start in Lakers’ 128-110 win over Timberwolves

October 24, 2025

Luka Doncic scored 49 points and became the fourth player in NBA history to begin a season with back-to-back 40-point performances, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a 128-110 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Doncic followed his 43-point performance in an opening-night loss to Golden State with his highest-scoring effort yet in a Lakers jersey, going 14 for 23 with five 3-pointers while adding 11 rebounds and eight assists. Anthony Edwards scored 31 points and Julius Randle had 26 for Minnesota, which couldn’t slow the Lakers’ offense in a rematch of last season’s first-round playoff series won in five games by the Wolves.

Golden State Warriors guard Jonathan Kuminga, left, works for a round against Los Angeles Lakers' Luka Dončić (77) during the first half of an NBA basketball game Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope)

Luka Doncic’s 43 points, near triple-double aren’t enough to carry Lakers to a win without LeBron

October 22, 2025

Luka Doncic scored 43 points in his first season opener with the Los Angeles Lakers, and it wasn’t enough to propel his team past the Golden State Warriors. The Lakers are still figuring out how to play without LeBron James, who will be sidelined by sciatica for at least the next few weeks. This loss was a preview of the pitfalls and the possibilities for the Lakers without the top scorer in NBA history. Doncic was aggressive and outstanding when he got into the paint against the smallish Warriors, going 15 of 17 inside the 3-point line.

FILE - Los Angeles Angels catcher Kurt Suzuki gestures as he leaves a baseball game against the Oakland Athletics during the first inning in Oakland, Calif., Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2022. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez, File)

Angels have decided to hire former catcher Kurt Suzuki as their next manager, AP source says

October 21, 2025

The Los Angeles Angels have decided to hire former major league catcher Kurt Suzuki as their next manager, a person with knowledge of the negotiations tells The Associated Press. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the Angels had not finalized or announced the deal with Suzuki, who has spent the past three seasons as a special assistant to Angels general manager Perry Minasian. Suzuki played 16 seasons in the major leagues for five teams, including the final two with the Angels. Los Angeles pivoted quickly to Suzuki after talks with former slugger Albert Pujols broke down in recent days.

Los Angeles Lakers' Luka Dončić stands on the court during a timeout in the first half of an NBA basketball preseason game against the Golden State Warriors, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)

Fitter and hungrier, Luka Doncic embraces his new life before his first season opener with Lakers

October 20, 2025

Luka Doncic is fully settled in Los Angeles after a year of upheaval, and he is eager to begin his first full season with the Los Angeles Lakers when they host the Golden State Warriors this week. Doncic is coming off a summer of well-documented fitness gains and international hoops success. Everyone could see Doncic was slimmer and faster in his two preseason appearances this month for the Lakers, who brought him back to full game fitness cautiously after his busy summer at EuroBasket. Doncic says he made his physical changes largely with conditioning exercises, not massive diet changes.

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki and catcher Will Smith celebrates their win against the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 4 of baseball's National League Championship Series, Friday, Oct. 17, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Shohei Ohtani hits 3 homers, dominates on mound in Dodgers’ clinching 5-1 NLCS win over Brewers

October 17, 2025

Shohei Ohtani has propelled the Los Angeles Dodgers back to the World Series with a two-way performance for the ages. Ohtani hit three mammoth home runs and pitched scoreless, two-hit ball into the seventh inning, and the Dodgers swept the Milwaukee Brewers out of the NL Championship Series with a 5-1 victory in Game 4. The Dodgers will have a chance to be baseball’s first repeat World Series champions in a quarter-century after this mind-blowing night for the three-time MVP Ohtani.

Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani wait for the start of Game 3 of baseball's National League Championship Series between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Los Angeles Dodgers, Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)

Slumping at the plate, Ohtani takes mound with chance to ‘make his mark’ on NLCS, Roberts says

October 17, 2025

Shohei Ohtani hasn’t contributed much to the Los Angeles Dodgers with his bat during their otherwise impressive playoff run to the brink of the World Series. Unlike any other star slugger in nearly a century, Ohtani also can help his team on the mound. Manager Dave Roberts believes Ohtani will do just that when he pitches in Game 4 of the NL Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers. Roberts says Ohtani has “no limitations” on his second career postseason start, although the manager went on to describe what he called soft parameters of seven innings and 100 pitches.

FILE - Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Albert Pujols waves to players in the Colorado Rockies dugout in the second inning of a baseball game, Sept. 12, 2020, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski, File)

Albert Pujols has met with the Angels about their managerial opening, AP source says

October 10, 2025

Albert Pujols has met with the Los Angeles Angels about returning to their dugout as their next manager, a person with knowledge of the meeting told The Associated Press. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the Angels aren’t publicly discussing their search for a successor to Ron Washington, who wasn’t brought back after two seasons. Pujols met with general manager Perry Minasian in St. Louis, and the iconic slugger appears to be the current front-runner to take over the Angels in what would be his first in-season major league coaching job of any kind.

Los Angeles Lakers' Lebron James stands on the court before an NBA basketball preseason game against the Golden State Warriors, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)

LeBron James will miss opening night of his record 23rd NBA season due to sciatica

October 9, 2025

LeBron James will miss opening night of his record 23rd NBA season due to sciatica that will be re-evaluated in three to four weeks. The Los Angeles Lakers announced James’ condition on Thursday. The 40-year-old superstar will be sidelined at least until the end of October. Sciatica is pain originating in the nerves running from the buttocks and down the legs. James has the issue on his right side. James has yet to participate in a full practice since the Lakers opened training camp. An hour later, the Lakers announced James is likely to miss at least their first five or six games, and possibly several more.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James, right, tries to pass while under pressure from Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks during the second half of an NBA preseason basketball game Friday, Oct. 3, 2025, in Palm Desert, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Bronny James has a rough shooting night, but makes progress in his quest to earn a role with Lakers

October 4, 2025

Three days shy of a year after Bronny James made his preseason debut in this desert arena, the NBA’s most famous son resumed his quest to earn a regular role with the Los Angeles Lakers. While his 1-for-12 shooting performance in their preseason opener wasn’t ideal, James felt his effort Friday night was another step forward in a process that’s already showing results to JJ Redick and the Lakers’ coaching staff. Bronny James scored eight points while LeBron James and Luka Doncic sat out of the Lakers’ 103-81 loss to the Phoenix Suns.

Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker, left, tries to get by Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James during the first half of an NBA preseason basketball game Friday, Oct. 3, 2025, in Palm Desert, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Lakers lose their preseason opener 103-81 to Suns with LeBron James, Luka Doncic sitting out

October 3, 2025

Austin Reaves scored 20 points and Bronny James added eight while the Los Angeles Lakers lost their preseason opener 103-81 to the Phoenix Suns with LeBron James and Luka Doncic sitting out. James is progressing deliberately in his return from a minor nerve injury to begin his record 23rd NBA season, while Doncic is also ramping up with caution after his busy summer playing for Slovenia at EuroBasket. Both superstars watched from courtside while the rest of the Lakers lost to the new-look Suns, who jumped to a 27-point lead in the third quarter. Bronny James went 1 for 7 on 3-point attempts.

Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams, middle, runs against San Francisco 49ers cornerback Deommodore Lenoir, left, and middle linebacker Fred Warner (54) during the second half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Jessie Alcheh)

Sean McVay ‘disgusted’ after Rams let win slip away due to ball security, special teams woes

October 3, 2025

Sean McVay was still quite clearly furious with himself on the morning after his Los Angeles Rams blew an eminently winnable game on a short week against short-handed San Francisco. McVay says he’s “disgusted” by the loss on Thursday night. He’ll be simmering through his long weekend because he knows the Rams let a remarkable start to their season slip away with razor-thin losses to the Eagles and the 49ers over the past three weeks. San Francisco beat Los Angeles 26-23 in overtime despite playing without most of its star players, and the game ended with Kyren Williams getting stuffed on fourth-and-1 at the 49ers 11.

San Francisco 49ers players celebrate after defeating the Los Angeles Rams in overtime of an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

Short-handed 49ers stop Rams on downs in overtime, preserving a 26-23 victory

October 2, 2025

Eddy Piñeiro hit a 41-yard field goal in overtime before San Francisco stopped Kyren Williams on fourth down with 3:36 to play, and the short-handed 49ers hung on for a thrilling 26-23 victory over the Los Angeles Rams. Mac Jones passed for 342 yards and two touchdowns for the 49ers, who won it in OT after a frantic fourth quarter featuring Piñeiro’s tiebreaking 59-yard field goal with 2:52 left, Williams’ subsequent goal-line fumble and Joshua Karty’s tying 48-yard field goal for the Rams with 2 seconds to play. Matthew Stafford passed for 389 yards and three touchdowns for the Rams.

Los Angeles Angels manager Ron Washington looks on before the team's baseball game against the Houston Astros Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

Ron Washington won’t return as Angels manager after 2 seasons cut short by health issues

September 30, 2025

Ron Washington will not return for a third season as the manager of the Los Angeles Angels. The team announced the move on Tuesday. Washington missed roughly half of the current season after undergoing quadruple bypass heart surgery. The Angels said they will hire a new manager for 2026, which means interim manager Ray Montgomery also won’t get the job. The 73-year-old Washington was the oldest manager in the majors during his two seasons with the Angels, who hired him in November 2023. Los Angeles had the worst season in franchise history in 2024, going 63-99 after the free-agency departure of two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani.

San Diego Padres' Fernando Tatis Jr. watches his grand slam during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Arizona Diamondbacks Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, in San Diego. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Fernando Tatís Jr. returns from bout with COVID-19 to hit a grand slam in the Padres’ playoff push

September 27, 2025

Fernando Tatís Jr. says he fell ill with the COVID-19 virus several days ago, which meant he had to watch the party from his couch when the San Diego Padres clinched a playoff spot Monday. He returned to the Padres’ lineup on Friday after missing three games, and Tatís made sure the baseball world knows he’s healthy and ready for October. Tatís blasted a grand slam in the fourth inning of the Padres’ 7-4 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday night, swinging the momentum in a win that kept San Diego in contention for a home playoff series.

San Diego Padres' Fernando Tatis Jr. celebrates after hitting a grand slam during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Arizona Diamondbacks Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, in San Diego. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Fernando Tatís Jr.’s grand slam sends Padres past Diamondbacks 7-4, eliminating Arizona

September 26, 2025

Fernando Tatís Jr. hit a grand slam in the fourth inning, and the San Diego Padres eliminated the Arizona Diamondbacks from playoff contention with a 7-4 victory. Luis Arraez extended his hitting streak to 14 games with his 22nd career four-hit game for the postseason-bound Padres, who also prevented the Chicago Cubs from clinching homefield advantage in the clubs’ opening-round playoff series. Ketel Marte and Jake McCarthy hit early homers for the Diamondbacks, who lost their third straight and fell two games behind the Mets and Reds for the final NL wild card berth with two games to play.

Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw (22) delivers during the first inning of a baseball game against the San Francisco Giants in Los Angeles, Friday, Sept. 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)

Dodgers become the 10th team in baseball history to draw 4 million fans in a season

September 21, 2025

The Los Angeles Dodgers say they’ve drawn 4 million fans this season for the first time in franchise history. Los Angeles is the first MLB team to draw 4 million fans in a season since the New York Mets in 2008. The 2025 Dodgers are only the 10th team in MLB history to hit the mark. The defending World Series champion Dodgers hit the mark Sunday in their regular-season home finale against the San Francisco Giants. They hadn’t yet determined their final attendance number. The Dodgers are wildly popular in Southern California, and they list the capacity of Dodger Stadium at an MLB-high 56,000.

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw speaks to the media after announcing his retirement at the end of the season prior to a baseball game against the San Francisco Giants Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Hollywood endings: LA icons Clayton Kershaw, Anze Kopitar announce impending retirements on same day

September 19, 2025

When Clayton Kershaw and Anze Kopitar announced their impending retirements two hours apart Thursday, the Los Angeles sports world was forever changed in an afternoon. The timing was pure coincidence for the Dodgers’ enduring ace and the Kings’ longtime captain, and their decisions were relatively unsurprising. These two 21st-century LA icons still created an epochal sports day in their adopted town. Kopitar said the timing was “kind of funny,” but he was also grateful for Kershaw to take some of the spotlight away from him.

By the numbers: An in-depth look at Clayton Kershaw’s remarkable career with the Dodgers

September 18, 2025

Clayton Kershaw joined the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2008 as a gawky left-hander with an obvious potential for greatness. He will leave this fall with a stuffed trophy case, a massive list of accomplishments and a future appointment in Cooperstown. During the 17 years in between, Kershaw became one of Los Angeles’ most beloved athletes of the 21st century and one of the greatest pitchers of his generation. He won three Cy Young Awards, an NL MVP trophy and two World Series rings during an epic career.

FILE - Los Angeles Kings center Anze Kopitar, of Slovenia, carries the Stanley Cup after beating the New York Rangers in double in Game 5 of the NHL Stanley Cup Final series, June 13, 2014, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File)

LA Kings captain Anze Kopitar says he will retire after his upcoming 20th season

September 18, 2025

Los Angeles Kings captain Anze Kopitar says he will retire from his 20-year NHL career after the upcoming season. The 38-year-old Kopitar made the announcement Thursday following the first practice of training camp with the Kings. The Slovenian center has spent his entire adult life with the Kings since making his NHL debut in October 2006. He is a five-time NHL All-Star, a two-time winner of the Selke Trophy as the NHL’s best defensive forward, and a three-time winner of the Lady Byng Trophy for sportsmanlike play.

Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani hits a solo home run against the San Diego Padres in the ninth inning of a baseball game Sunday, Aug. 24, 2025, in San Diego. (AP Photo/Derrick Tuskan)

Shohei Ohtani high-fives a heckler after his homer to cap Dodgers’ comeback rivalry win over Padres

August 24, 2025

A heckler next to the Los Angeles Dodgers’ dugout spent his entire Sunday giving an earful to the visitors, including a nonstop barrage of digs and chirps at Shohei Ohtani for his hitless performance in a portentous weekend series against the San Diego Padres. When Ohtani crushed his 45th homer in the ninth inning of the Dodgers’ 8-2 victory, he stopped on his way back to the dugout to slap hands and get the last word with the chagrined Padres fan. The Dodgers loved to see it, along with just everything else that transpired in the final four innings.

San Diego Padres starting pitcher Nestor Cortes works against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the second inning of a baseball game Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, in San Diego. (AP Photo/Derrick Tuskan)

Nestor Cortes silences his Dodgers demons with 6 brilliant innings, pitching Padres into 1st place

August 23, 2025

Nestor Cortes had one of the lowest moments of his baseball life last October when he gave up the first walk-off grand slam in World Series history to Freddie Freeman. In a new uniform and a new pennant race Saturday night, Cortes faced his Dodgers demons head-on and came out smiling. The veteran left-hander produced six brilliant innings of one-hit ball while the San Diego Padres surged past Los Angeles into sole possession of first place in the NL West with a 5-1 victory. Cortes took a perfect game into the sixth inning, but he didn’t see his stellar performance as redemption.

San Diego Padres' Nestor Cortes follows through on a pitch against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the first inning of a baseball game Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, in San Diego. (AP Photo/Derrick Tuskan)

Nestor Cortes dominates the Dodgers, and the Padres surge into first place with a 5-1 victory

August 23, 2025

The San Diego Padres have reclaimed the NL West lead with a 5-1 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers. Nestor Cortes took a perfect game into the sixth inning and combined with three relievers on a two-hitter. Ramón Laureano had a two-run single in the fourth and Xander Bogaerts added a two-run double in the eighth for the Padres, who have surged ahead of the Dodgers during the archrivals’ final series of the regular season by allowing just five hits and two runs in back-to-back wins. Alex Freeland hit his second career homer for the Dodgers.

San Diego Padres second baseman Jake Cronenworth, center, throws to first base after forcing out Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani (17) at second base to complete a double play during the sixth inning of a baseball game Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, in San Diego. (AP Photo/Orlando Ramirez)

Yu Darvish, bullpen dazzle in 3-hitter, and Padres beat Dodgers 2-1 to even NL West race

August 22, 2025

Yu Darvish combined with three relievers on a three-hitter, and the San Diego Padres pulled even with the Los Angeles Dodgers atop the NL West once again with a 2-1 victory. Manny Machado had an RBI single and scored in the fourth inning for the Padres, who rebounded sharply after getting swept over three games last weekend in Chavez Ravine. The archrivals are even at 73-56 with 33 games left in the regular season. Alex Freeland hit his first major league homer for the defending champion Dodgers, who have lost three of five since last Sunday’s sweep.

FILE - Algeria's Imane Khelif, right, fights China's Yang Liu in their women's 66 kg final boxing match at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, in Paris, France. (AP Photo/Ariana Cubillos, File)

World Boxing will require sex testing for fighters before world championships in September

August 20, 2025

The governing body for Olympic-style boxing will require sex testing for all fighters wishing to compete in the women’s division at its world championships next month. World Boxing already had announced its plan to require competitors to undergo a polymerase chain reaction test or an equivalent genetic screening test to determine their sex at birth. It announced Wednesday that the rules will be implemented ahead of the World Boxing Championships in Liverpool, England, in early September. The tests identify the presence or absence of Y chromosome genetic material as the indicator of biological sex.

Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Shohei Ohtani throws to the plate during the third inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Shohei Ohtani fans Trout with 101 mph fastball while pitching into the 5th in return to Big A mound

August 13, 2025

Shohei Ohtani returned to the Angel Stadium mound with 4 1/3 innings of five-hit, four-run ball for the Los Angeles Dodgers in his first pitching appearance in Anaheim since he left the Los Angeles Angels nearly two years ago. Ohtani also staked himself to an early lead by tripling and scoring as the Dodgers’ leadoff hitter before he even took the mound, entertaining Angels fans with the same inimitable feats he accomplished regularly during his first six major league seasons with their club. Ohtani’s mound start was his longest since he returned to pitching two months ago, but he didn’t finish strong.

Los Angeles Dodgers' Dalton Rushing, left, is tagged out by Los Angeles Angels first baseman Nolan Schanuel for the last out of a triple play during the sixth inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Angels turn triple play when Shohei Ohtani lines out to Zach Neto and 2 Dodgers are caught off base

August 13, 2025

The Los Angeles Angels turned the eighth triple play in team history Tuesday night, capitalizing on a line drive to second by Dodgers slugger Shohei Ohtani. Miguel Rojas was on second and Dalton Rushing was on first for the Dodgers when Ohtani hit a drive right up the middle past reliever Brock Burke. Angels shortstop Zach Neto caught Ohtani’s drive and stepped on second in stride to get Rojas. Neto quickly threw to first, where Nolan Schanuel tagged out Rushing as the Dodgers rookie attempted to sneak back.

Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) strikes out swinging as Los Angeles Angels catcher Travis d'Arnaud, left, prepares to throw the ball during the third inning of a baseball game, Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Jessie Alcheh)

Shohei Ohtani homers in 3rd straight game, but Dodgers’ malaise continues in another loss

August 11, 2025

Shohei Ohtani has homered in his third straight game. The Dodgers star hit his 42nd of the season in the eighth inning of their game against the Los Angeles Angels. The Dodgers trailed 7-0 when Ohtani connected off Shaun Anderson, driving his fourth homer in five games into the right field bleachers to tie Philadelphia’s Kyle Schwarber for the NL lead. Seattle’s Cal Raleigh leads the majors with 45 homers. Ohtani has a 10-game hitting streak in August, and he has four homers among his nine hits in the Dodgers’ last five games.

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, center, stands on the sidelines during the first half of an NFL preseason football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

CeeDee Lamb takes big hit from sprinting official while WR is in street clothes on the sideline

August 9, 2025

CeeDee Lamb took a big hit and committed a penalty in the Dallas Cowboys’ preseason opener even though the star receiver wasn’t in uniform. A sprinting official ran straight into Lamb’s back on the sideline during the second quarter of the Cowboys’ game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on Saturday night, resulting in a 15-yard penalty to Dallas for making contact with an official. Dressed in street clothes, Lamb was watching Joe Milton’s deep pass to Jonathan Mingo when he wandered too far into the white paint on the sideline. The official didn’t see him and knocked him down.

FILE - South Korea's Son Heung-min, left, and his teammates celebrate their advance to the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals after the Asian qualifier group B match for 2026 World Cup between South Korea and Kuwait at Seoul World Cup Stadium in Seoul, South Korea, June 10, 2025. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon, File)

Son Heung-min signs with MLS’ Los Angeles FC after a decade at Tottenham

August 5, 2025

Son Heung-min agreed to a contract with Los Angeles FC on Tuesday, finalizing his move to Major League Soccer after a decade at Tottenham Hotspur. The 33-year-old South Korean superstar will join LAFC as a designated player after the club paid a reported fee of more than $20 million, which could end up being the most ever for an MLS transfer. Son formally announced his decision to leave Tottenham last week. The Spurs captain was a beloved fixture at the North London club, scoring 173 goals in 454 competitive appearances while rising to global prominence with his combination of speed, playmaking skill and finishing acumen.

Los Angeles Dodgers' Tommy Edman (25) celebrates a two-run homer with Esteury Ruiz (27) during the second inning of a baseball game against the Cincinnati Reds, Tuesday, July 29, 2025, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Dodgers activate Max Muncy from injured list, but also put Tommy Edman on the shelf

August 4, 2025

The Los Angeles Dodgers activated Max Muncy from the injured list and put fellow infielder Tommy Edman on the list Monday. Muncy has been out since July 2, missing nearly five weeks with a bone bruise in his knee after a collision on a tag play during a game against the Chicago White Sox. The veteran slugger had been on a monthlong roll at the time of his injury, boosting his OPS to .832 with 13 homers and 55 RBIs. But just when Muncy is healthy enough to return, the NL West-leading Dodgers are losing Edman after he aggravated his injured right ankle.

The Los Angeles Lakers, from left, Coach JJ Redick, Maxi Kleber, Marcus Smart, Gabe Vincent, Luka Doncic, Deandre Ayton, Adou Thiero, Rui Hachimura, Jaxson Hayes and general manager Rob Pelinka. congratulate Doncic on his three-year, $165 contract extension at the Lakers' training complex in El Segundo, Calif., on Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Greg Beacham)

Luka Doncic agrees to a contract extension through 2028 with the Lakers, committing to his new team

August 2, 2025

Luka Doncic has agreed to a three-year, $165 million maximum contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers. The Slovenian superstar is bypassing a chance at free agency next summer to build a long-term future with his new team. The deal keeps Doncic with Los Angeles through 2028. The Slovenian superstar had a player option for the 2026-27 season under his previous contract. The Lakers acquired Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks last February in a seismic trade for Anthony Davis. Doncic wrote on social media “Excited to keep working to bring championships to LA and make Laker Nation proud.”

Seattle Mariners' Cal Raleigh is greeted by teammates after hitting a home run during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels, Saturday, July 26, 2025, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/William Liang)

Cal Raleigh is first to 40 homers this season with tiebreaking shot in Mariners’ 7-2 win over Angels

July 26, 2025

Cal Raleigh became the first player to hit 40 homers this season with a tiebreaking solo shot in the sixth inning of the Seattle Mariners’ 7-2 victory over the Los Angeles Angels. Raleigh hammered a 97 mph fastball from José Fermin 416 feet into the right-field bleachers for his second homer in eight games since winning the Home Run Derby. Julio Rodríguez hit his fourth solo homer in three games at Angel Stadium, and George Kirby struck out nine over six difficult innings. Taylor Ward hit his 24th homer for the Angels, who have lost five of six.

FILE - Washington Wizards guard Marcus Smart (36) looks on during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Miami Heat in Washington, March 31, 2025. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams, file)

Marcus Smart will sign with the Lakers after getting a buyout from Wizards, AP source says

July 20, 2025

Veteran guard Marcus Smart will sign with the Los Angeles Lakers after receiving a contract buyout from the Washington Wizards, according to a person with knowledge of the deal. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the Wizards had yet to announce their buyout of Smart, who excelled for the rival Boston Celtics for nine seasons before spending the past two years with Memphis and Washington. Smart will get a two-year, $11 million deal with the Lakers to join their supporting cast around Luka Doncic and LeBron James.

FILE - Portland Trail Blazers center Deandre Ayton (2) and Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) vie for the ball in the second half of an NBA basketball game, Feb. 10, 2025, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski, File)

Deandre Ayton will join LeBron, Luka and the Lakers after Portland buyout, AP sources say

July 2, 2025

Deandre Ayton has agreed to join the Los Angeles Lakers as a free agent, sources tell the Associated Press. The Portland Trail Blazers bought out Ayton’s contract last weekend, and he will now team up with LeBron James and Luka Doncic for the upcoming season. Ayton, a 7-footer and former No. 1 overall pick, averaged 16.4 points and 10.5 rebounds over seven NBA seasons. His addition addresses the Lakers’ need for size in the paint after trading Anthony Davis. Ayton, who turns 27 this month, brings experience but has yet to make an All-Star appearance in his career.

FILE - Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James, left, and forward LeBron James warm up before an NBA basketball game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Oct. 22, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer, File)

Bronny James says he doesn’t follow rumors around LeBron while preparing for 2nd season with Lakers

July 2, 2025

Bronny James sounds prepared to spend a long, hot summer ducking rumors, pleading ignorance on innuendo and concentrating on the work necessary to become a contributor during his second NBA season with the Lakers. LeBron James has decided to pick up his $52.6 million player option with the Lakers. His longtime agent, Rich Paul, announced the news with ambiguous comments in which he declared LeBron’s desire to compete for a championship this season, even while the Lakers are building for the future. While many NBA observers are interpreting the comments as a prelude to a possible trade if the Lakers aren’t an elite team in the fall, Bronny James isn’t thinking or looking that far ahead.

Jake Paul celebrates after his cruiserweight boxing match against Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. on Saturday, June 28, 2025, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Etienne Laurent)

Jake Paul enters WBA’s cruiserweight rankings, making him eligible for title shot

July 1, 2025

Jake Paul has entered the World Boxing Association’s cruiserweight rankings. That means the YouTuber-turned-boxer is eligible to fight for a world title. The WBA slotted Paul at No. 14 in the latest edition of its rankings. Two days earlier, Paul beat 39-year-old Julio César Chávez Jr. by unanimous decision in Anaheim, California. The WBA’s decision to rank Paul likely means the sanctioning body would allow him to fight WBA cruiserweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez. The WBA’s decision reflects Paul’s incredible financial potential more than his fighting resume, which still largely consists of fellow YouTubers and mixed martial artists as his opponents.

Jake Paul, right, punches Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. during their cruiserweight boxing match on Saturday, June 28, 2025, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Etienne Laurent)

Jake Paul beats former middleweight champ Julio César Chávez Jr. by unanimous decision

June 29, 2025

Jake Paul has beaten former middleweight champion Julio César Chávez Jr. by unanimous decision. The YouTuber-turned-boxer dominated the early rounds Saturday night before holding on against Chávez’s late-round rally. Paul appeared to be taking the biggest risk of his unique boxing career by facing his most accomplished opponent in the 39-year-old Chávez, and doing it in front of an ardently pro-Chávez crowd. Chávez stepped into the ring at Honda Center and looked lifeless, barely throwing a punch until late in the fourth round. He got going late, but Paul hung on and cruised to victory.

Simon Wang speaks to the media after the San Jose Sharks selected the defenseman with the 33rd overall pick in the NHL draft in Los Angeles on Saturday, June 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Greg Beacham)

Simon Wang becomes highest-drafted player born in China, going 33rd to Sharks in NHL draft

June 28, 2025

Simon Wang became the highest-drafted player born in China when the San Jose Sharks selected him with the first pick of the second round of the NHL draft. Wang’s family moved from Beijing to Toronto when he was 12. The 6-foot-5 defenseman surged forward in his development over the past year, showing more than enough potential to entice the Sharks with the 33rd overall selection. Wang is only the third Chinese-born player ever drafted by the NHL. Wang walked the red carpet with his mother, and he got to see his brother for the first time in nearly two years.

Matthew Schaefer, drafted first by the New York Islanders, middle, stands between Michael Misa, drafted second by the San Jose Sharks, left, and Anton Frondell, drafted third by the Chicago Blackhawks, during the NHL hockey draft Friday, June 27, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes)

Islanders’ No. 1 pick Matthew Schaefer pays tribute to late mother with a kiss and a promise

June 27, 2025

The New York Islanders selected defenseman Matthew Schaefer with the No. 1 pick in the NHL draft. The Islanders surprised nobody by using their first No. 1 selection since 2009 on the 17-year-old Schaefer, a 6-foot-2 blueliner from Hamilton, Ontario, who spent the past two seasons with the Ontario Hockey League’s Erie Otters. He played only 17 games last season before breaking his collarbone in December, but Schaefer’s acumen on both ends of the ice still propelled him to the top of nearly all draft boards. Schaefer is just the fifth defenseman drafted No. 1 overall in the NHL draft since 2000.

FILE - Anaheim Ducks center Trevor Zegras (11) plays during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Nashville Predators, Thursday, March 20, 2025, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV, file)

Anaheim Ducks trade Trevor Zegras to Philadelphia Flyers for Ryan Poehling and draft picks

June 23, 2025

The Anaheim Ducks are trading forward Trevor Zegras to the Philadelphia Flyers for forward Ryan Poehling and two draft picks. Zegras was the Ducks’ first-round pick in 2019. The Ducks also will get the 45th overall pick in the upcoming draft that initially belonged to Columbus, along with a fourth-round pick next season. Zegras had two 60-point seasons early in his NHL career but struggled with injuries for the past two seasons. The 26-year-old Poehling had 12 goals and 19 assists for Philadelphia last season.

Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Shohei Ohtani throws to a Washington Nationals batter during the first inning of a baseball game in Los Angeles, Sunday, June 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Jessie Alcheh)

Shohei Ohtani pitches sharp first inning for Dodgers before driving in 5 runs at the plate

June 22, 2025

Shohei Ohtani pitched one hitless inning Sunday in his second mound start for the Los Angeles Dodgers, striking out two and allowing just one baserunner on an error. The three-time MVP then drove in five runs at the plate, hitting a three-run triple down the right field line in the seventh before adding a two-run homer in the eighth. Ohtani threw 18 pitches against the Washington Nationals at Chavez Ravine, recording 12 strikes with one wild pitch. After leadoff hitter CJ Abrams grounded out, Mookie Betts dropped James Wood’s popup in the sun, but Ohtani struck out Luis García Jr. and Nathaniel Lowe to end it.

Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani, center is hit by a pitch thrown by San Diego Padres relief pitcher Robert Suarez, left as catcher Martin Maldonado watches during the ninth inning of a baseball game Thursday, June 19, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Padres closer Suarez suspended 3 games, fined for hitting Ohtani with pitch; managers banned 1 game

June 20, 2025

San Diego Padres closer Robert Suarez was suspended for three games and fined an undisclosed amount Friday for intentionally hitting Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers with a pitch in the ninth inning Thursday night. Suarez appealed the suspension that was scheduled to begin Friday night when the Padres faced Kansas City at home. Padres manager Mike Shildt and Dodgers manager Dave Roberts also received one-game suspensions and undisclosed fines. Ohtani took a pitch to the back of his right (pitching) shoulder from Suarez in the Padres’ 5-3 victory Thursday in Los Angeles. With Dodgers players starting to move over the dugout railing, Ohtani waved back his teammates.

Dodgers announce $1 million donation to aid families of immigrants affected by federal raids

June 20, 2025

The Los Angeles Dodgers have donated $1 million to assist families impacted by two weeks of immigration raids in Southern California. The defending World Series champion Dodgers also said Friday that they intend to form partnerships with the California Community Foundation, the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor and other organization to aid immigrant families. The Dodgers announced the steps in a five-paragraph news release that appeared to be delicately worded. The team said only that the financial aid would be provided “for families of immigrants impacted by recent events in the region.”

Botafogo's Igor Jesus celebrates towards fans after scoring his team's first goal during the Club World Cup group B soccer match between PSG and Botafogo in Pasadena, Calif., Thursday, June 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Botafogo stuns Champions League winner Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in Club World Cup on Igor Jesus’ goal

June 19, 2025

Botafogo has stunned Champions League winner Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in each club’s second match of the Club World Cup. Igor Jesus scored late in the first half, and the South American champions made it stand up through a tense second half while improving to 2-0-0 in Club World Cup group play. PSG hadn’t lost in any competition since May 3, but the European champions looked understandably weary at times. Jesus’ stunning score in the 36th minute was the first goal allowed since May 17 by PSG. The French powerhouse had outscored its last three opponents by a combined 12-0, winning the French Cup and the Champions League final.

FILE - Los Angeles Lakers President Jeanie Buss dances in her seat to music as she attends the NBA basketball game between the Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers in Los Angeles, Oct. 29, 2013. (AP Photo/Danny Moloshok, File)

After a whopping sale, the Los Angeles Lakers will no longer be the Buss family business

June 19, 2025

The Buss family’s decision to sell a controlling stake in the Los Angeles Lakers at a franchise valuation of $10 billion marks the end of nearly a half-century when one of the most valuable properties in the entire sports world was run by an eccentric father and his sometimes squabbling children. With high-living playboy Jerry Buss and current team governor Jeanie Buss in charge, the glamorous Lakers essentially have been the professional sports equivalent of a quirky family business for two generations. The Lakers and the Buss clan have been inextricable since 1979, but Mark Walter’s stunning purchase effectively ends this improbable era.

GREG BEACHAM Sports Writer.