LARRY LAGE Sports Writer, Author at The Rapid City Post

Nebraska guard Jamarques Lawrence (10) drives the baseline against Michigan forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) in the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026. (AP Photo/Lon Horwedel)

McKenney makes go-ahead layup as No. 3 Michigan hands No. 5 Nebraska its first loss, 75-72

January 27, 2026

Trey McKenney made a tiebreaking layup with 1:07 left and No. 3 Michigan rallied past No. 5 Nebraska 75-72 to hand the Cornhuskers their first loss this season. Morez Johnson Jr. had 17 points and 12 rebounds for the Wolverines, who trailed for 36-plus minutes before holding Nebraska scoreless over the final 3:15. Jamarques Lawrence missed a 3-pointer with 4 seconds remaining for the short-handed Cornhuskers, and Sam Hoiberg missed a jumper just before the buzzer. Nebraska had won 24 straight games dating to last season, including four victories in the inaugural College Basketball Crown tournament at Las Vegas last April. That was the longest winning streak in Division I since the 2014-15 Kentucky team went 38-0 before losing to Wisconsin in the Final Four.

Boston Celtics guard Anfernee Simons (4) takes a shot against Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) during the first half of an NBA basketball game Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Duane Burleson)

Harris scores 25, Brown misses potential game-winner and Pistons hold off Celtics for 104-103 win

January 19, 2026

Tobias Harris scored 25 points and Jaylen Brown missed a jumper just before the buzzer, allowing the Detroit Pistons to hold on for a 104-103 win over the Boston Celtics in a matchup of teams with the best records in the Eastern Conference. Jalen Duren scored 18 points and grabbed nine rebounds, Cade Cunningham had 16 points and 14 assists and Duncan Robinson added 15 points for the Central Division-leading Pistons. Brown had 32 points on 11-for-28 shooting for the Atlantic Division-leading Celtics.

Wisconsin guard Braeden Carrington (0) celebrates with his teammates after they beat Michigan after an NCAA college basketball game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, January 10, 2026. (AP Photo/Lon Horwedel)

Wisconsin beats No. 2 Michigan 91-88 to give Wolverines their 1st loss of the season

January 10, 2026

John Blackwell had 26 points, Nick Boyd scored 22 and Aleksas Bieliauskas set a career high with 17 points to lead Wisconsin to a 91-88 win over previously unbeaten, second-ranked Michigan on Saturday. The Badgers beat their highest-ranked regular-season opponent since a win over No. 2 Michigan in 2019. They beat the AP poll’s No. 2 team on the opponent’s court for the second time since winning at Maryland on Feb. 13, 2016. The Wolverines led by as much as 14 in the first half and lost because they gave up 54 points in the second half.

Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel, center, looks on during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Lions have reached out to Mike McDaniel about their offensive coordinator opening, AP source says

January 8, 2026

The Detroit Lions have reached out to Mike McDaniel about their offensive coordinator opening. That’s according to a person familiar with the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Thursday because the team’s interest in the former Miami Dolphins coach has not been publicly disclosed. Detroit fired offensive coordinator John Morton on Tuesday in a move that was expected after the team missed the playoffs and coach Dan Campbell took over play-calling duties midway through the season. The Lions are looking for their third offensive coordinator in three seasons.

FILE - Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham looks at the scoreboard during the first half of an NCAA college football game, against BYU, Oct. 18, 2025, in Provo, Utah. (AP Photo/George Frey, File)

Kyle Whittingham hired as Michigan football coach, replacing the fired and disgraced Sherrone Moore

December 26, 2025

Michigan has hired Kyle Whittingham as its football coach, giving the former Utah coach a five-year contract to replace the fired and disgraced Sherrone Moore. The 66-year-old Whittingham announced two weeks ago that he would step down after 21 seasons as Utah’s coach. Morgan Scalley was promoted from defensive coordinator to replace Whittingham, who has won a school-record 177 games. Scalley will now take over the Utes immediately and coach them in the Las Vegas Bowl on Dec. 31. Michigan fired Moore after the school said it discovered his inappropriate relationship with a staffer. Moore was subsequently charged with three crimes for confronting a woman he’d been having an affair with.

FILE - Michigan acting head coach Biff Poggi watches as his team plays against Nebraska during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, in Lincoln, Neb. (AP Photo/Rebecca S. Gratz, File)

Michigan interim coach Biff Poggi wants to keep the job beyond bowl game and ‘fix this program’

December 22, 2025

Biff Poggi tapped on a lectern as he closed a news conference and made his case to be Michigan’s football coach beyond its bowl game. The interim coach told reporters on Monday that he wants to fix the program. Clearly, college football’s winningest program is broken. The 18th-ranked Wolverines were shaken nearly two weeks ago when Sherrone Moore was fired as coach. Michigan said Moore had an inappropriate relationship with a staff member and two days later, he was charged with three crimes. Poggi is preparing the team to play No. 14 Texas in the Citrus Bowl on Dec. 31.

Pittsburgh Steelers' Asante Samuel Jr. (22) Joey Porter Jr. (24) and Jalen Ramsey (5) celebrate after Pittsburgh won an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

Steelers outlast Lions 29-24 in wild finish when penalty on St. Brown negates Goff’s winning TD

December 21, 2025

The Pittsburgh Steelers have pushed the Detroit Lions to the brink of elimination from the playoffs thanks to a wild finish. Pittsburgh held on for a 29-24 win when Jared Goff’s touchdown on the final play was negated by an offensive pass-interference penalty on Amon-Ra St. Brown. Goff threw a fourth-down pass to St. Brown just short of the goal line. The receiver pushed off cornerback Jalen Ramsey to get free, and before the Steelers could bring St. Brown to the ground, he threw the quarterback a lateral to set up an apparent score. Officials huddled for some time on the field before announcing the decision.

Poggi tells Michigan signees and parents to expect a new coach by end of month, AP source says

December 15, 2025

Michigan interim football coach Biff Poggi had a Zoom call with the program’s signees and their parents just hours after Sherrone Moore was fired last week. That’s according to a person familiar with the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Monday because they were not authorized to share details from the call. The person said Poggi told the players and their parents that athletic director Warde Manuel hoped to have a new coach hired by the end of the month. Moore’s firing has left the Wolverines scrambling to retain recruits and to give current players reasons to stay out of the transfer portal.

Fired Michigan football coach Sherrone Moore appears via video in court on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025 in Ann Arbor, Mich. (AP Photo/ Ryan Sun, Pool)

Michigan expands investigation after firing Sherrone Moore, AP source says

December 13, 2025

The law firm hired by the University of Michigan to investigate former football coach Sherrone Moore’s relationship with a staffer will continue its probe of the program and is prepared to expand its inquiry throughout the athletic department. That’s according to two people familiar with the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the details. Michigan fired Moore on Wednesday, when the school said an investigation uncovered his inappropriate relationship with a staffer. He is married with three daughters.

Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham encourages his players prior to an NCAA college football game against West Virginia Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, in Tempe, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Michigan search includes Arizona State’s Kenny Dillingham, Missouri’s Eli Drinkwitz, AP source says

December 13, 2025

The firm hired by Michigan to search for a football coach to replace Sherrone Moore has contacted representatives for Arizona State’s Kenny Dillingham and Missouri’s Eli Drinkwitz. That’s according to a person familiar with the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Saturday because they were not authorized to share details of the search. Moore was fired on Wednesday, when the school said an investigation uncovered his inappropriate relationship with a staffer. Two days later, Moore was charged with three crimes.

FILE - Michigan coach Sherrone Moore walks off the field following an NCAA football game on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, in Ann Arbor, Mich. (AP Photo/Al Goldis, File)

Fired Michigan coach Sherrone Moore faces arraignment amid assault investigation

December 12, 2025

Fired Michigan football coach Sherrone Moore is expected to be arraigned Friday after spending two nights in jail. Authorities have not released details on Moore’s arrest, but police are investigating an alleged assault. Moore was fired Wednesday for an inappropriate relationship with a staff member, violating university policy. He signed a five-year contract last year, but the university won’t buy out the remaining years because he was fired for cause. Biff Poggi will serve as interim coach. Michigan is set to play Texas on December 31 in the Citrus Bowl. The school is now seeking a new head coach.

FILE - Michigan acting head coach Sherrone Moore reacts to a video replay during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Ohio State, Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, in Ann Arbor, Mich. (AP Photo/David Dermer, File)

Sherrone Moore was a once-promising coach until a sudden and stunning fall from grace at Michigan

December 11, 2025

Sherrone Moore was once a promising young leader. He was a rare Black head coach at the top of the sport — a rugged lineman at Oklahoma who climbed the ranks to Michigan, the winningest program in college football. His downfall has been even more stunning. The 39-year-old Moore was fired and arrested hours apart on Wednesday, and remained jailed with an arraignment expected Friday as police investigate an alleged assault. His firing was related to what the school called an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. Moore has been through a lot in his career, but scandal abounds.

FILE - Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel, left, talks with head coach Sherrone Moore, right, before an NCAA college football spring game in Ann Arbor, Mich., April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya, file)

Sherrone Moore’s firing leaves Michigan and its troubled football program scrambling to find a coach

December 11, 2025

Sherrone Moore spent the night in jail awaiting arraignment while college football’s winningest school suddenly started searching for a new coach to lead the Wolverines. Michigan has quite a mess on its hands. The NCAA put the program on probation less than four months ago, stemming from a sign-stealing scandal, and athletic director Warde Manuel has said penalties will cost the department more than $30 million. And now, the Wolverines are scrambling to find a new leader for the shaken football team. The move leaves Michigan looking for a third coach in four years.

Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore watches from the sideline during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Ohio State, Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025, in Ann Arbor, Mich. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

Michigan fires Sherrone Moore with cause, cites ‘inappropriate relationship’ with staff member

December 10, 2025

Michigan has fired football coach Sherrone Moore. The university announced on Wednesday that an investigation found evidence of an “inappropriate relationship with a staff member.” Officials stated that Moore’s alleged conduct was a “clear violation of university policy.”

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Ryan Flournoy (19) takes a hit from Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch (32) during the second half of an NFL football game Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

Lions standout safety Brian Branch tore his Achilles tendon against the Cowboys, AP source says

December 5, 2025

Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch tore his left Achilles tendon against the Dallas Cowboys, according to a person familiar with the situation. Tests revealed the significant injury on Friday, the person told The Associated Press. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the results were not announced. Branch was hurt late in Detroit’s 44-30 win over Dallas on Thursday night. The injury is a major setback for the Lions, whose secondary is very banged up. Free safety Thomas Harper had a concussion against Dallas while filling in for injured All-Pro Kerby Joseph. Cornerback Terrion Arnold went on injured reserve earlier this week.

Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs (0) runs the ball as Dallas Cowboys linebacker Jr. Kenneth Murray (59) tries to stop him during the first half of an NFL football game Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Jahmyr Gibbs rushes for 3 TDs and Lions get much-needed 44-30 win over Cowboys

December 4, 2025

Jahmyr Gibbs and the Detroit Lions have beaten the Dallas Cowboys to help their playoff chances. Gibbs ran three touchdowns in Thursday night’s 44-30 win. Gibbs’ final score was a 13-yarder with 2:19 left that sealed a much-needed win for the Lions. Detroit avoided losing consecutive games for the first time in more than than three years. The Cowboys had surged into postseason contention with a three-game winning streak. But against the Lions, the NFL’s top-ranked offense had to lean on powerful kicker Brandon Aubrey too much, and Dallas’ revitalized defense was humbled.

Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16) throws against the Green Bay Packers during the first half an NFL football game in Detroit, Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Lions and Cowboys need a win in Thursday night matchup to improve position in NFL playoff picture

December 3, 2025

The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys are the top two teams in the hunt for an NFC wild card and are still holding on to hopes to compete for division championships. Detroit hosts Dallas on Thursday night and the winner will improve its position in the playoff picture, while the loser may not have time to recover from the setback over the last month of the regular season. After starting 5-2, the two-time defending NFC North champions have lost three of five to fall behind division-leading Chicago and second-place Green Bay. Dallas has a winning record for the first time this year.

FILE - Northwestern head coach Pat Fitzgerald looks up on the sideline during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Wisconsin Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, in Madison, Wis. (AP Photo/Andy Manis, File)

Michigan State hires Pat Fitzgerald with 5-year, $30 million contract after he talked with 8 schools

December 2, 2025

Pat Fitzgerald spoke with eight schools about potentially coaching their football teams before choosing to resume his career at Michigan State. The former Northwestern coach and All-America linebacker signed an incentive-laden, five-year, $50 million contract to lead the Spartans back to relevance. The 51-year-old Fitzgerald says Tuesday that the offer was a no-brainer to accept. Fitzgerald will make $5 million guaranteed in his first year and will be paid at least $500,000 more in each of the following four seasons. If he helps Michigan State win seven games in any of his first three seasons, an extra year and $500,000 will be added to his contract.

Ohio State Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day celebrates after the team's win against Michigan in an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025, in Ann Arbor, Mich. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

No. 1 Ohio State tops No. 15 Michigan 27-9, will play No. 2 Indiana for B10 title

November 29, 2025

Julian Sayin threw three touchdown passes, including a 35-yarder to Jeremiah Smith on a fourth down in the second quarter, and No. 1 Ohio State beat No. 15 Michigan 27-9 in a dominant performance. The defending national champion Buckeyes likely earned a first-round bye in the College Football Playoff. They can keep their top seed with a win against No. 2 Indiana in the conference championship game Saturday night in Indianapolis. Ohio State coach Ryan Day should sleep well, a year after losing The Game when his team was favored by about three touchdowns.

FILE - Michigan defensive lineman Cam Goode waves a Michigan flag after their win over Ohio State in an NCAA college football game ,Nov. 26, 2022, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete, File)

No. 1 Ohio State hoping No. 15 Michigan does not add to long list of upsets in The Game on Saturday

November 28, 2025

The Game has had many upsets, including last year when Michigan stunned Ohio State as nearly 20-point underdogs. The top-ranked Buckeyes don’t want the 15th-ranked Wolverines to add to the list on Saturday in Ann Arbor, Michigan. In terms of point spreads, last year’s upset was the largest since at least 1995. Michigan’s win in 1969 in coach Bo Schembechler’s debut season against mentor Woody Hayes was perhaps the most significant in the series. The 1973 game was memorable because the top-ranked Buckeyes settled for a famous 10-10 with the Wolverines and it inspired a documentary.

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson (9) celebrates a touchdown with wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks (13) and quarterback Jordan Love (10) against the Detroit Lions during the second half an NFL football game in Detroit, Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

Love matches career high with 4 TD passes, lifting Packers to 31-24 win over Lions

November 27, 2025

Jordan Love converted a pair of fourth downs with touchdown passes in the first half and finished with a career-high-matching four touchdown throws, leading the Green Bay Packers to a 31-24 win over the Detroit Lions on Thursday. The Packers swept the season series to earn a potential tiebreaker in the NFC North. The two-time defending division champion Lions entered the game out of the playoff picture, then fell further back in the hunt with a third loss in five games.

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day shouts to his team against Rutgers during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)

No. 1 Ohio State and Ryan Day desperately seeking victory against 15th-ranked Michigan in The Game

November 26, 2025

Ryan Day needs to win The Game, perhaps more than anyone on the Big House turf. Defending champion and top-ranked Ohio State would not get knocked out of the College Football Playoff if they lose a fifth straight game to rival and 15th-ranked Michigan on Saturday. But another loss would would haunt Day for at least another year. Day is 1-4 against the Wolverines and his mark in one of the greatest rivalries in sports has been a blemish on what has been a remarkable career that includes winning about 90% of games over the last seven-plus seasons.

Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs (0) runs past New York Giants safety Dane Belton (24) for a touchdown in overtime of an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Rey Del Rio)

Jahmyr Gibbs rescues Lions with long TD run in OT for 34-27 win over Giants

November 23, 2025

The Detroit Lions have avoided losing consecutive games for the first time in more than three years. Jahmyr Gibbs ran for a 69-yard touchdown on the first snap of overtime after Jake Bates kicked a career-long 59-yard field goal in the final minute of regulation, lifting the Lions to a 34-27 win over the New York Giants on Sunday. New York had a chance to extend the game, but turned it over on downs at the Detroit 31 when Aidan Hutchinson sacked Jameis Winston. The Lions entered the game out of the playoff picture and trailed by double digits multiple times. Gibbs had a career-high 264 yards from scrimmage and three scores.

FILE - In this Aug. 26, 2018, file photo, Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh leads his players and fans in singing "Hail to the Victors" after a practice session by the NCAA college football team at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, Mich..(AP Photo/Tony Ding, File)

Fight songs still ring true as college football tradition in face of ever-changing changes in sport

November 21, 2025

College football fight songs have stood the test of time, remaining a nostalgic part of the game. From “Rocky Top” at Tennessee to “Fight On” at USC, these tunes unite fans and spark debates about which ones are best. Georgia Southern’s Chris Hanna highlights Michigan’s “The Victors” and Notre Dame’s “Victory March” as top contenders. Michigan’s song dates back to 1898, while Notre Dame’s became even more famous after the 1993 film “Rudy.” Despite the rise of pop songs in stadiums, fight songs continue to evoke strong emotions and traditions, connecting generations of fans.

FILE - Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti speaks during an NCAA college football news conference at Lucas Oil Stadium, July 23, 2024, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings, File)

Michigan board publicly declares opposition to proposed $2.4 billion outside investment in Big Ten

November 20, 2025

The University of Michigan governing board publicly declared its opposition on Thursday to the possibility of giving up a stake of the Big Ten in exchange for $2.4 billion in private investment. The Big Ten Conference pushed back earlier in the week when the chair of University of Michigan Board of Regents claimed that Commissioner Tony Petitti threatened to penalize the school if it refuses to support the proposal. The Big Ten disputed the allegation that any school is being forced to back the plan.

FILE - Big Ten Conference commissioner Tony Petitti speaks during a news conference after meetings with the Southeastern Conference, Oct. 10, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV, File)

Big Ten denies Michigan regent’s claim of coercion over $2.4 billion investment plan

November 18, 2025

The Big Ten Conference has denied claims by a University of Michigan regent that Commissioner Tony Petitti threatened the school over a $2.4 billion investment plan. Mark Bernstein, Michigan’s board chairman, accused Petitti of trying to “strong-arm” the university. The Big Ten stated that no school is being forced to support the plan, which aims to bring private investment into the league. Discussions began last year, and the plan involves UC Investments providing funds in exchange for a share of media rights. Some schools, including Michigan and Southern California, oppose the deal. Concerns include governance and the impact on tax-exempt status.

Michigan State coach Tom Izzo watches the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Arkansas, Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, in East Lansing, Mich. (AP Photo/Al Goldis)

No. 22 Michigan State tops No. 14 Arkansas 69-66 in matchup of Tom Izzo, John Calipari

November 8, 2025

Freshman Cam Ward had 18 points and 10 rebounds, Coen Carr scored 15 points and soared for seven rebounds and No. 22 Michigan State beat No. 14 Arkansas 69-66 in a matchup of Hall of Fame coaches. The Spartans grabbed 19 offensive rebounds and converted them into 18 points, a staple of Tom Izzo’s program for 31 seasons. John Calipari has highly touted freshmen Darius Acuff and Meleek Thomas in his second season with the Razorbacks. Acuff had 16 points on 5 of 16 shooting points. Thomas scored 16 on 5 of 15 shooting.

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) passes during the first half of an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

J.J. McCarthy throws for 2 TDs and runs for a score in his return as Vikings beat Lions 27-24

November 2, 2025

J.J. McCarthy threw two touchdown passes and ran for a score in his return from an ankle injury, leading the Minnesota Vikings to a 27-24 win over the Detroit Lions. McCarthy sealed the victory by throwing a 16-yard pass to Jalen Nailor on third-and-5 from the Minnesota 28, a play that allowed Minnesota to run out the clock. He threw both of his scoring passes in the first quarter and his 9-yard run midway through the third gave the Vikings a 24-14 lead. Jared Goff threw a touchdown pass to Jameson Williams as the Lions tried to rally, but they kicked off and didn’t get the ball back.

Michigan running back Jordan Marshall (23) is tackled by Purdue defensive back Tahj Ra-El (21) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, in Ann Arbor, Mich. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

Jordan Marshall runs for 185 yards and 3 TDs to help No. 21 Michigan hold off Purdue for 21-16 win

November 1, 2025

Jordan Marshall had career highs with 185 yards rushing and three touchdowns, helping No. 21 Michigan hold off Purdue for a 21-16 win. The Wolverines were in a closely contested game against a team without a conference win because Bryce Underwood struggled and the Boilermakers were able to move and possess the ball. Purdue pulled within four points early in the third quarter on Spencer Porath’s career-best 50-yard field goal and cut its deficit to five points with six minutes left on Ryan Browne’s 5-yard pass to Malachi Thomas.

Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore gives a news interview after the team's win in an NCAA college football game against Wisconsin, Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025, in Ann Arbor, Mich. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

Michigan and coach Moore drop appeal of NCAA penalties from sign-stealing saga

October 28, 2025

Michigan and football coach Sherrone Moore have dropped their appeal of NCAA penalties stemming from a sign-stealing operation. Michigan was fined tens of millions of dollars and Moore was suspended for a third game by the NCAA as punishment for a sprawling scandal that has loomed over the Wolverines for two years, including during their run to the national championship in the 2023 season. The 21st-ranked Wolverines host Purdue on Saturday. Moore withdrew his appeal on Sept. 29 after serving a two-game suspensions. He will also miss the 2026 season-opening game. The school withdrew its appeal on Oct. 6.

FILE - Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2024 inductee Chauncey Billups speaks at a hall of fame news conference at Mohegan Sun, Oct. 12, 2024, in Uncasville, Conn. (AP Photo/Jessica Hill, file)

Gambling probe tests the resilience that helped Chauncey Billups soar to the Basketball Hall of Fame

October 27, 2025

Chauncey Billups earned a spot in the Basketball Hall of Fame a year ago, recognizing his resilience and clutch play in a championship-winning NBA career. His ability to bounce back and make all the right moves is being put to a different test by a gambling scandal. Billups was one of more than 30 people arrested last week for what federal law enforcement officials described as their involvement in various illicit gambling activities. The coach was alleged to have participated in a conspiracy to fix high-stakes poker games with ties to three Mafia families. His attorney denied the allegations.

Detroit Lions running back Jammer Gibbs (0) runs for a touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 20, 2025, in Detroit. AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

Gibbs has career-high 218 yards of offense and 2 TDs, helping Lions bounce back and beat Bucs 24-9

October 20, 2025

Jahmyr Gibbs scored on a 78-yard sprint in the second quarter, a 5-yard spinning plunge in the third and accounted for a career-high 218 yards from scrimmage to lead the Detroit Lions in a 24-9 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday night. The Lions bounced back from a loss as they have done flawlessly for nearly three years. Tampa Bay was outgained by more than 200 yards in the first half, but trailed 14-3 because Detroit had an interception, fumble, turned it over on downs and missed a field goal.

Seattle Mariners starting pitcher Logan Gilbert reacts after striking out Detroit Tigers' Parker Meadows to end the second inning in Game 3 of baseball's American League Division Series Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Raleigh, Suarez, Crawford homer and Mariners top Tigers 8-4 for a 2-1 lead in the AL Division Series

October 7, 2025

Cal Raleigh hit a two-run homer, Eugenio Suarez and J.P. Crawford had solo shots and the Seattle Mariners beat the Detroit Tigers 8-4 on Tuesday night to take a 2-1 lead in the AL Division Series. The Mariners are within a win of their first AL Championship Series since 2001. Their first chance to advance is on Wednesday afternoon in Game 4 at Comerica Park and if necessary, another opportunity awaits on Friday back in Seattle for a decisive Game 5. Seattle’s Logan Gilbert gave up one run on four hits while striking out seven and walking none over six innings.

Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal throws against the Cleveland Guardians during the first inning of a baseball game Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Tarik Skubal returns from injury scare for Tigers, giving up 1 run in 6 innings against Guardians

September 18, 2025

Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal returned from an injury scare and gave up one run over six innings against the Cleveland Guardians on Thursday. Skubal had tightness on his left side during his previous start. He allowed seven hits, struck out nine and walked two a 102-pitch outing against the Guardians. Cleveland made the most of Skubal’s mistake in the fourth, taking advantage of an 0-2 changeup he threw over the plate with Jhonkensy Noel’s game-tying solo homer. In the same inning, the 28-year-old Skubal struck out Brayan Rocchio to set a single-season career high with 229 strikeouts.

FILE - Michigan State quarterback Aidan Chiles, left, prepares to throw as Michigan linebacker Jaishawn Barham chases him in the second half of an NCAA college football game, Oct. 26, 2024, in Ann Arbor, Mich. (AP Photo/Jose Juarez, File)

Michigan’s targeting call appeal is denied, linebacker Jaishawn Barham to miss 1st half at Oklahoma

September 1, 2025

Michigan linebacker Jaishawn Barham will miss the first half of the Oklahoma game this week, following his ejection for targeting against New Mexico. Wolverines coach Sherrone Moore said Monday that the appeal to overturn the ruling was denied. Barham sacked Lobos quarterback Jack Layne and was called for targeting in the third quarter of the Wolverines’ 34-17 win. Michigan will play the Sooners on the road Saturday night, bringing Moore back to his alma mater.

FILE - Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood throws during an NCAA college football spring game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

No. 14 Michigan names freshman Bryce Underwood its starting quarterback in opener against New Mexico

August 25, 2025

Bryce Underwood has been named the starting quarterback for No. 14 Michigan. Coach Sherrone Moore made the announcement Monday at his weekly news conference. Underwood was the nation’s top-ranked recruit last year and his father told The Wall Street Journal that the freshman is expected to make more than $15 million over the next three seasons. The 6-foot-4, 230-pound Underwood says he expects to shock the world this season, adding nobody has seen a freshman like him. Michigan opens Saturday night against New Mexico.

FILE - Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore watches during an NCAA college football spring game in Ann Arbor, Mich., April 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya, file)

NCAA informs Michigan ruling on sign-stealing investigation will be released Friday, AP source says

August 14, 2025

The NCAA has informed Michigan that the organization will announce the results of its sign-stealing investigation on Friday, a person familiar with the situation tells The Associated Press. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to share the details. The NCAA alleged last year in a notice that current coach Sherrone Moore violated rules as an assistant under former coach Jim Harbaugh, who served a three-game suspension in exchange for the Big Ten dropping its own investigation into the allegations after the two ended up in court.

Detroit Lions players stand on the field after safety Morice Norris was injured during the second half of an NFL preseason football game against the Atlanta Falcons Friday, Aug. 8, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Lions’ Morice Norris shares good news after he was taken off field in ambulance

August 9, 2025

Detroit Lions safety Morice Norris says in a social media post he’s OK after being taken off the field in an ambulance late in a preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons. Norris thanked people for their support in the post on Saturday. He was in stable condition late Friday night after he was attended to for about 20 minutes and taken to an Atlanta hospital. The 24-year-old Norris was hurt with 14:50 left in the preseason game after hitting Falcons running back Nathan Carter. Detroit coach Dan Campbell and Atlanta coach Raheem Morris made a decision to not finish the game.

Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh holds a press conference during training camp for the NFL football team Thursday, July 17, 2025, in El Segundo, Calif. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer)

Big Ten suggests to NCAA that Michigan has been punished enough for sign-stealing, AP sources say

July 21, 2025

Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti sent a letter to the NCAA Committee on Infractions suggesting that Michigan’s football program should not face more sanctions stemming from a sign-stealing scheme, according to two people familiar with the situation. They spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Monday because no one is authorized to comment on an ongoing NCAA investigation. Big Ten Deputy Commissioner Diane Dietz says Petitti’s letter was shared during last month’s hearing because he was unable to attend while recovering from hip surgery. ESPN was first to report some details of Petitti’s letter.

FILE - Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson runs a drill during an NFL football practice in Allen Park, Mich., May 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya, file)

Call it a comeback! Hutchinson, McCaffrey, Prescott, McCarthy aiming to bounce back from injuries

July 21, 2025

Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson appeared to practice without any limitiations on Sunday morning, when Detroit kicked off training camp with its first practice. The only difference was a black sleeve that covered and supported much of his surgically repaired left leg. Hutchinson says he doesn’t think anybody in the game of football will ever be as grateful when I come back in that first game. San Francisco running back Christian McCaffrey, Dallas quarterback Dak Prescott and Minnesota quarterback J.J. McCarthy may beg to differ.

FILE - Detroit Lions defensive end Levi Onwuzurike waits for the snap of the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears in Detroit, Nov. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/David Dermer, file)

Lions DL Levi Onwuzurike out for season after ACL surgery, setback for team with ailing Alim McNeill

July 20, 2025

Detroit Lions defensive lineman Levi Onwuzurike is out for the season after having knee surgery, a setback for a franchise that was counting on him to fill in for Alim McNeill. Lions coach Dan Campbell made the announcement on Sunday morning, just before his team had the NFL’s first training camp practice of the year. Onwuzurike started 11 games last season, including Detroit’s loss to Washington in the divisional round. His playing time increased when McNeill had a season-ending knee injury in December. McNeill is out indefinitely. Rookie defensive tackle Tyleik Williams has a chance to play a significant role.

Aldrich Potgieter, of South Africa, celebrates after his winning putt in a playoff during the final round of the Rocket Classic golf tournament at Detroit Golf Club, Sunday, June 29, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Aldrich Potgieter wins Rocket Classic on 5th playoff hole, outlasting Max Greyserman and Chris Kirk

June 29, 2025

Aldrich Potgieter made an 18-foot putt for birdie on the fifth playoff hole, outlasting Max Greyserman to win the Rocket Classic on Sunday. It was the longest playoff of the season on the PGA Tour. The 20-year-old from South Africa is the youngest player on the tour and its biggest hitter. He became the ninth player to win for the first time this season. Chris Kirk was eliminated from contention after failing to make a 4-foot putt on the second hole after pushing a 9-foot putt past the cup on the first extra hole with a chance to win the tournament. Potgieter, two strokes ahead entering the round, closed with a 3-under 69, and Greyserman and Kirk each shot 67.

Aldrich Potgieter, of South Africa, putts on the eighth hole during the first round of the Rocket Classic golf tournament at the Detroit Golf Club, Thursday, June 26, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Aldrich Potgieter, PGA Tour’s youngest player and biggest hitter, leads Rocket Classic by 2 strokes

June 28, 2025

Aldrich Potgieter had five straight birdies to surge into the third-round lead and finished with a 7-under 65 on Saturday for a two-shot edge. The 20-year-old rookie started the week averaging 326.6 yards off the tee, several yards longer than Rory McIlroy. The PGA Tour’s youngest player will be shooting for his first win on the tour Sunday. Max Greyserman, Jake Knapp, Mark Hubbard, Andrew Putnam and Chris Kirk were two shots back. Fifth-ranked Collin Morikawa shot a 68 to start the final round four shots back, hoping to rally for his first win since 2023.

Andrew Putnam hits from the ninth tee during the first round of the Rocket Classic golf tournament at the Detroit Golf Club, Thursday, June 26, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Knapp makes PGA Tour history at Rocket Classic, trails 2nd-round leaders Kirk, Knowles and Putnam

June 27, 2025

Jake Knapp has pulled off a feat no one else has in PGA Tour history. Knapp shot an 11-under 61 on Friday to break a Rocket Classic record that stood for less than a day, becoming the first on the tour to break 60 and shoot a 61 or lower in the same season. That still wasn’t enough to put him in the top six, entering the weekend at Detroit Golf Club. Chris Kirk, Philip Knowles and Andrew Putnam share the second-round lead at 14 under after consecutive rounds in the mid-60s.

Aldrich Potgieter, of South Africa, hits from the ninth tee during the first round of the Rocket Classic golf tournament at the Detroit Golf Club, Thursday, June 26, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Kevin Roy and Aldrich Potgieter shoot Rocket Classic-record 62s to share 1st-round lead

June 26, 2025

Kevin Roy and Aldrich Potgieter each shot 10-under 62 on Thursday to break the Rocket Classic record and share the first-round lead. Detroit Golf Club has been one of the easiest courses since the PGA Tour made it an annual stop in 2019. A pair of Korn Ferry graduates took full advantage. Potgieter, the 20-year-old South African who grew up in Australia, started at No. 10 and set a tournament record with a 7-under 29 on the back nine. He added three birdies on his back nine and caught the left edge on a 12-foot putt on his final hole. Potgieter and Roy each had an eagle and eight birdies in bogey-free rounds. Min Woo Lee, Max Greyserman and Mark Hubbard were a stroke back.

Detroit Prowl's Toya Shinaul, from left to right, Kelly Bernadyn, Sydney Hebel, Jasmine Hamilton and Allie Gorcyca walk out for the coin toss at the start of an AWFL women's football game against the Lansing Legacy, in Allen Park, Mich., Saturday, May 10, 2025. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Women’s tackle football gives female athletes opportunities in a game dominated by men

June 20, 2025

Women have been playing tackle football for decades, mostly under the radar. Two leagues have raised their profile enough to have women competing for championships on ESPN2 in high-end venues. The Women’s National Football Conference will have its title game on the network for the first time. The game will be broadcast live on Saturday from the Dallas Cowboys’ Ford Center, a roughly 12,000-seat venue in Frisco, Texas. The Women’s Football Alliance will be back on the network for its championship game on July 26 at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio, where MVP jerseys from previous title games are on display.

Denny Hamlin wins at Michigan for his 3rd NASCAR Cup Series victory of the season

June 8, 2025

Denny Hamlin outlasted the competition at Michigan, winning his third NASCAR Cup Series race this season and the 57th of his career. Hamlin went low to pass William Byron on the 197th of 200 laps and pulled away from the pack in the No. 11 Toyota. The 44-year-old was prepared to leave to join his fiancée, Jordan Fish, who is due to give birth to their third child, a boy. Hamlin said he would skip next week’s race in Mexico City if necessary to witness the birth. Chris Buescher finished second, followed by Ty Gibbs, Bubba Wallace and Kyle Larson.

Denny Hamlin waits to be introduced before a NASCAR Cup Series auto race Sunday, June 1, 2025, in Lebanon, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

Hamlin undeterred by ruling siding with NASCAR in lawsuit filed by Jordan-owned 23XI and Front Row

June 7, 2025

Denny Hamlin says he is unfazed that a three-judge federal appellate panel vacated an injunction that required NASCAR to recognize 23XI, which he owns with Michael Jordan, and Front Row as chartered teams as part of an antitrust lawsuit. NASCAR’s FireKeepers 400 is Sunday at Michigan International Speedway. Hamlin says Jordan feels the same way. NASCAR has not commented on the latest ruling. 23XI and Front Row sued NASCAR late last year after refusing to sign new agreements on charter renewals. They asked for a temporary injunction that would recognize them as chartered teams for this season.

LARRY LAGE Sports Writer.