NOAH TRISTER Sports Writer, Author at The Rapid City Post

A sign for the Washington Post is seen at the company's offices, Monday, Jan. 26, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

The Washington Post’s sports section was a gold standard, all the way to the end

February 4, 2026

The Washington Post has eliminated its sports section while laying off a third of its staff. For decades, the Post treated sports as a vital part of life in the District of Columbia, and some of the biggest names in sports writing either got their start at the Post or spent decades there. Before they became TV stars on “Pardon The Interruption” at ESPN, Michael Wilbon and Tony Kornheiser were D.C. institutions at the Post. Christine Brennan and Sally Jenkins received career achievement awards from the Associated Press Sports Editors. And in recent years, reporting by the Post contributed to the downfall of Commanders owner Dan Snyder.

Purdue guard Fletcher Loyer (2) attempts a 3-point basket as Maryland guard Darius Adams, second from left, defends during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game, Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, in College Park, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)

Fletcher Loyer makes 7 3-pointers to end his, and No. 12 Purdue’s, brief slump

February 1, 2026

Fletcher Loyer’s slump ended in emphatic fashion — and so did Purdue’s. Loyer scored 29 points, shooting 7 of 10 from 3-point range, and the 12th-ranked Boilermakers trounced Maryland 93-63 on Sunday to snap a three-game losing streak. Loyer was just 5 for 21 from beyond the arc over his previous five games. Then he made five 3s in the first half alone against the Terrapins. Purdue didn’t let the Maryland crowd hold out any significant hope of an upset. A couple of 3-pointers by Loyer helped the Boilermakers take a 10-2 lead. He made three more during an 11-2 burst that made it 49-24 shortly before halftime.

Purdue guard Fletcher Loyer (2) attempts a shot while falling to the court after slipping during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Indiana, Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, in Bloomington, Ind. (AP Photo/Doug McSchooler)

Loyer scores 29 to help No. 12 Purdue snap a 3-game losing streak with a 93-63 rout of Maryland

February 1, 2026

Fletcher Loyer and Braden Smith gave No. 12 Purdue a commanding lead with an early 3-point barrage, and the Boilermakers snapped a three-game losing streak with a 93-63 victory over Maryland. Loyer scored 21 of his 29 points in the first half, when he Smith went a combined 9 of 12 from beyond the arc. Smith finished with 19 points. Andre Mills scored 18 points for Maryland, which continues to struggle under new coach Buzz Williams. This was the most lopsided defeat for the Terrapins in this arena, where they started playing in 2002.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) dribbles against Washington Wizards guard Jamir Watkins, right, during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Luka Doncic has a triple-double (26 points, 11 assists, 10 rebounds) before halftime

January 30, 2026

Luka Doncic’s latest triple-double came before the first half even ended. Doncic had 26 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds in the first two quarters as the Los Angeles Lakers raced out to a 77-48 halftime lead over the Washington Wizards on Friday night. His 10th rebound came in the waning seconds of the second quarter. Doncic was questionable for the game with ankle soreness after landing awkwardly during Wednesday night’s loss at Cleveland, but he was able to start.

South Carolina coach Dawn Staley calls to her team against Coppin State during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Gail Burton)

South Carolina’s Staley on playing at Coppin State: I think it’s good on all fronts

January 18, 2026

Dawn Staley’s visit to Coppin State was a success for just about everyone. South Carolina won by 42 points, and the Eagles had more than 3,000 fans in their arena. Staley and the Gamecocks beat Coppin State 90-48 on Sunday. The attendance was 3,371 in the 4,100-seat PEC Arena. Coppin State got to host Maryland in 2021 and LSU two years later. This was a chance to bring another big-name program to Baltimore. South Carolina is 28-0 against HBCU teams during Staley’s coaching tenure, and four of those games have been on the road.

Washington Wizards newly acquired point guard Trae Young answers a question at news conference before an NBA basketball game against the New Orleans Pelicans, Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/John McDonnell)

Trae Young has a fresh start in Washington. His first order of business is getting healthy

January 9, 2026

Trae Young was introduced to the home crowd with a video during the first quarter of Washington’s game against New Orleans. Earlier in the day Friday, the trade that sent the high-scoring guard from Atlanta to the Wizards became official. Now Young can look forward to a fresh start after leaving the Hawks. The first big question is when Young will play again. He missed Friday night’s game with knee and quadriceps issues and hasn’t appeared in a game since Dec. 27.

Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh speaks during a news conference after an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Justin Berl)

AP Source: John Harbaugh leaving the Baltimore Ravens after 18 seasons as coach

January 6, 2026

A person with knowledge of his decision says John Harbaugh is leaving the Baltimore Ravens after 18 seasons as their coach. The person spoke on condition of anonymity Tuesday because the Ravens haven’t announced the decision. The move comes after the Ravens were one of the league’s most disappointing teams this season, going 8-9 and missing the playoffs after entering Week 1 as one of the Super Bowl favorites. Baltimore’s season ended Sunday night when Tyler Loop missed a last-second field goal, allowing Pittsburgh to hold on for a 26-24 victory in the game that decided the AFC North title.

Baltimore Ravens linebacker Kyle van Noy, left, and defensive tackle John Jenkins (94) tackle Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren (30) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

In his 13th year, Baltimore NT John Jenkins finally receives an in-season contract extension

January 2, 2026

The Baltimore Ravens have announced a contract extension for veteran nose tackle John Jenkins. The 6-foot-3, 360-pound Jenkins is in his 13th pro season, but receiving an extension before the end of the season is a novelty for him. Jenkins was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 2013 and played with them until he was waived during the 2016 season. He was quickly picked up by Seattle, but for the next nine offseasons, he either signed with a new team or reached a new deal to stay put.

Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh watches during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025, in Green Bay, Wis. (AP Photo/Matt Ludtke)

Harbaugh hopes Jackson can return after Huntley’s big win: ‘If Lamar’s ready to go, he’s playing.’

December 29, 2025

Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh says he’ll have a better sense Wednesday about quarterback Lamar Jackson’s status for Sunday night’s game at Pittsburgh that will decide the AFC North title. Tyler Huntley helped Baltimore keeps its playoff hopes alive, replacing an injured Jackson for last weekend’s win at Green Bay. But Harbaugh said Monday if Jackson is ready, he’ll play Sunday. Jackson has been nursing a back injury from two weekends ago against New England. The Green Bay game was the fourth game he’s missed this season.

East Carolina quarterback Chaston Ditta (17) looks to pass during the first half of the Military Bowl NCAA college football game, Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025, in Annapolis, Md. (AP Photo/Gail Burton)

East Carolina takes advantage of 5 Pittsburgh turnovers, wins 23-17 in the Military Bowl

December 27, 2025

Chaston Ditta threw two second-half touchdown passes, and East Carolina overcame an inadvertent whistle that negated a long touchdown in a 23-17 victory over Pittsburgh in the Military Bowl. Marlon Gunn Jr.’s touchdown was called back because of the whistle, and two plays later, Ditta fumbled on a sack by Pitt’s Rasheem Biles, who recovered the ball and returned it 23 yards to the end zone to give the Panthers a 14-10 lead. The Pirates rebounded quickly when Ditta threw a 72-yard touchdown pass to Anthony Smith, and ECU led the rest of the way.

Long ECU touchdown negated by inadvertent whistle in Military Bowl, then Pitt scores 2 plays later

December 27, 2025

East Carolina’s Marlon Gunn Jr. had a long touchdown run called back because of an inadvertant whistle — and two plays later, Pittsburgh forced a fumble and ran it back for a TD the other way in the Military Bowl. ECU led 10-7 and faced fourth-and-1 from its own 32 in the third quarter when Gunn shed a couple tacklers and went all the way to the end zone. But the play was negated because of the whistle, and Gunn was credited with a 14-yard gain instead. Two plays later, Chaston Ditta fumbled on a sack by Pitt’s Rasheem Biles, who recovered the ball and returned it 23 yards to the end zone.

New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) passes against the Baltimore Ravens during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Drake Maye leads the Patriots to a 28-24 win over the Ravens that clinches a playoff spot

December 21, 2025

Drake Maye guided New England to a pair of fourth-quarter touchdowns, rallying his team from an 11-point deficit to a 28-24 victory over Baltimore that clinched a postseason spot for the Patriots and dealt a devastating blow to the Ravens’ playoff hopes. Down 24-13 in the fourth quarter, Maye answered with a 37-yard scoring strike to Kyle Williams, and a 2-point conversion pass to Rhamondre Stevenson made it a three-point game with 9:01 to play. Then Stevenson scored on a 21-yard run with 2:07 to play. The Ravens lost Lamar Jackson to a back injury in the second quarter.

Navy quarterback Blake Horvath runs with the ball during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Army, Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.)

Horvath to Heidenreich on 4th-and-goal leads No. 22 Navy to a 17-16 win over Army

December 13, 2025

Navy has beaten Army for a second straight season. Blake Horvath threw an 8-yard touchdown pass to Eli Heidenreich with 6:32 remaining — on fourth-and-goal — and the 22nd-ranked Midshipmen rallied for a 17-16 win on Saturday. Horvath turned the ball over twice, and his fumble near the goal line nearly spoiled Navy’s key drive. But Heidenreich fell on the ball, and Horvath found him when Navy gambled and went for it on fourth down. With President Donald Trump in attendance, the Midshipmen won the Commander-In-Chief’s Trophy for a second straight season.

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell celebrates after his go-ahead basket late in the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Washington Wizards, Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/John McDonnell)

With 24 points, Donovan Mitchell produces the highest-scoring 4th quarter of the NBA season so far

December 12, 2025

Down 15 with one quarter to play against one of the NBA’s worst teams, Donovan Mitchell played with a bit of desperation in the final period. Mitchell scored 24 of his 48 points in the fourth quarter, and the Cleveland Cavaliers rallied to beat the Washington Wizards 130-126 on Friday night. Mitchell ended up with the highest-scoring fourth quarter in the NBA this season, surpassing the 22 points by Orlando’s Jett Howard on Nov. 23 against Boston. Mitchell is also averaging a league-best 9.6 points per game in the fourth.

Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. (24) breaks up a pass intended for Baltimore Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely (80) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

Late reversal helps Steelers hold on for 27-22 win over Ravens and sole possession of division lead

December 7, 2025

Aaron Rodgers threw for 284 yards and a touchdown and even ran for TD in perhaps his best game with the Steelers, and Pittsburgh took sole possession of first place in the AFC North, holding on for a 27-22 win over the Ravens when a Baltimore touchdown with 2:43 remaining was overturned by a replay review. Isaiah Likely secured a pass from Lamar Jackson with two hands in the end zone, and both his feet came down, but as he was about to complete another step with his right foot, Joey Porter Jr. of the Steelers knocked the ball free. It was initially called a touchdown but then changed to incomplete. The Ravens eventually turned the ball over on downs.

President Donald Trump speaks with FIFA President Gianni Infantino as they leave after the draw for the 2026 soccer World Cup at the Kennedy Center in Washington, Friday, Dec. 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Music, comedy and a whole lot of Trump. And then finally, an actual World Cup draw

December 5, 2025

Perhaps it’s fitting that after the World Cup draw ceremony began, it took about 90 minutes for the actual drawing of teams to begin in earnest. By then, casual fans who tuned in out of curiosity had learned that FIFA doesn’t really do understatement. Not for an event like this, at least. The president of the United States danced to the Village People, Wayne Gretzky struggled to pronounce the names of underdog soccer nations from Europe and the Caribbean — and the head of FIFA declared his governing body to be humanity’s official provider of happiness. It was all quite a spectacle.

Argentina's Lionel Messi waves before a training session with the national team ahead of an international friendly soccer match against Angola in Elche, Spain, Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Alberto Saiz)

How does the World Cup draw work? The AP explains FIFA’s process for dividing teams into groups

December 3, 2025

The draw for the 2026 World Cup takes place Friday at the Kennedy Center. The purpose is to divide the 48-team field into 12 groups of four. Once the tournament starts, 32 teams will advance from those preliminary groups to the single-elimination knockout rounds. The 12 World Cup groups are designated Group A, Group B … and so on, down to Group L. Balls corresponding with the competing countries will be separated into four pots of 12, and each group will include one team drawn from each pot.

Washington Wizards forward Cam Whitmore (1) goes up to dunk over Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis (9) during the first half of an NBA basketball game Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/John McDonnell)

McCollum and Middleton lead the Wizards to a 129-126 win over Milwaukee despite Porter’s 30 points

December 1, 2025

CJ McCollum scored 28 points, including a 3-pointer with 14.4 seconds remaining that helped the Washington Wizards outlast the Milwaukee Bucks 129-126. The Wizards have won two of three following a 14-game losing streak, and Milwaukee only managed a split in two games against Washington and Brooklyn — two of the NBA’s worst teams. Kevin Porter Jr. scored 30 points for Milwaukee in his second game back from knee surgery. This was only the third game all season for Porter, who dealt with a sprained ankle and then a meniscus tear in his right knee.

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow throws a pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

Bengals win in Burrow’s return, taking advantage of 5 Ravens turnovers in a 32-14 victory

November 27, 2025

Joe Burrow threw two second-half touchdown passes in his return for Cincinnati, and the Bengals snapped Baltimore’s five-game winning streak with a 32-14 victory over the fumble-prone Ravens. Baltimore lost three fumbles in the first half and turned the ball over five times in the game. Although the Bengals didn’t take full advantage of those miscues, Burrow and his receivers began to click in the final two quarters. Tanner Hudson made a terrific one-handed grab in the end zone for a 14-yard touchdown to put Cincinnati up 19-7, and after the Ravens answered with Keaton Mitchell’s 18-yard touchdown run, Burrow threw a 29-yard scoring pass to Andrei Iosivas in the third quarter.

Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry (22) shakes hands with wide receiver Zay Flowers (4) after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the New York Jets, Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

Henry rushes for 2 TDs to help sluggish Ravens to fifth straight win, 23-10 over Jets

November 23, 2025

Derrick Henry scored two third-quarter touchdowns,and the Baltimore Ravens recovered from a sleepy first half to beat the New York Jets 23-10 for their fifth straight victory. Baltimore has gone from 1-5 to 6-5, but this was not a particularly convincing performance. Lamar Jackson went 13 of 23 for 153 yards and did not look as mobile as usual after dealing with knee and ankle issues recently. Henry was held to 64 yards on 21 carries. Tyrod Taylor started in place of the benched Justin Fields and threw for 222 yards with a touchdown and had a late interception for the Jets.

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) rolls out of the pocket in the second half of an NFL football game against the Cleveland Browns in Cleveland, Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Ravens QB Lamar Jackson misses another practice, this time with an ankle issue

November 19, 2025

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson missed practice again. This time it was because of an ankle issue. That marks the second straight week he was missing for Wednesday’s session. Jackson has already missed three games this season because of a hamstring injury. He was listed with a knee issue last week, but he was still able to play in Baltimore’s 23-16 win over Cleveland on Sunday. He threw for 193 yards and was sacked five times while also having two deflected passes intercepted. Jackson ran for only 10 yards on four attempts in that game. The Ravens host the New York Jets this weekend.

UConn guard Kayleigh Heckel (9) shoots as Louisville guard Tajianna Roberts (22) defends during the first half of a NCAA college basketball game, Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025, in Annapolis, Md. (AP Photo/Gail Burton)

No. 1 UConn handles No. 20 Louisville 79-66 in opening game moved due to government shutdown

November 4, 2025

Sarah Strong had 21 points and nine rebounds, and top-ranked UConn opened its title defense with a 79-66 win over No. 20 Louisville. This was the first time the Armed Forces Classic featured women’s basketball teams, and the game was supposed to be played at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, but it was moved to the Naval Academy because of the government shutdown. Azzi Fudd scored 20 points for UConn, which has not lost a season opener since 1995. Laura Ziegler had 16 points and 18 rebounds for Louisville.

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (14) passes the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against Washington Commanders, Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Sam Darnold leads Seahawks to easy 38-14 win over Commanders, who lose Jayden Daniels to arm injury

November 2, 2025

Sam Darnold threw four touchdown passes before his first incompletion, and the Seattle Seahawks played a near-perfect first half offensively on their way to a 38-14 rout of the Washington Commanders. Washington lost Jayden Daniels to an injury. The second-year quarterback left in the fourth quarter after his non-throwing arm bent gruesomely while he was being tackled near the Seattle goal line. Darnold completed his first 17 passes. At halftime, he was 16 for 16 for 282 yards and four TDs against Washington’s beleaguered defense.

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) injures his arm as he is tackled by Seattle Seahawks linebacker Drake Thomas (42) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Jayden Daniels leaves game after Washington QB’s non-throwing arm bends gruesomely

November 2, 2025

Jayden Daniels has left Washington’s game against Seattle with an injury to his left, non-throwing arm. Daniels’ arm bent gruesomely while he was being tackled near the goal line in the fourth quarter. The Commanders were down 38-7 at the time, raising questions about why Daniels was still in the game. It was yet another injury for the second-year quarterback in a season that has quickly spiraled for Washington. Daniels had just come back from a hamstring injury that caused him to miss the previous game at Kansas City. He also missed two games earlier this season with a knee injury.

Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) reacts after running back Roman Hemby scored a touchdown during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Maryland, Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, in College Park, Md. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

Sarratt leaves with hamstring tightness, but No. 2 Indiana rolls anyway to a 55-10 win over Maryland

November 1, 2025

No. 2 Indiana bearly missed a beat without star receiver Elijah Sarratt. He left Saturday’s game early with hamstring tightness, but the Hoosiers still pummelled Maryland 55-10. It was the fifth time this season Indiana has surpassed 50 points and the third time in Big Ten play. The Hoosiers rushed for 367 yards and four touchdowns. Sarratt’s exit did mean that he went without a catch for the first time in his 47-game career. The 46-game run with a reception was the longest active streak in the nation.

Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) runs the ball during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Indiana, Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, in College Park, Md. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

Another Indiana blowout: No. 2 Hoosiers hammer Maryland 55-10 after slow start

November 1, 2025

Fernando Mendoza threw for a touchdown and ran for one, and No. 2 Indiana remained undefeated with a 55-10 rout of Maryland. Mendoza recovered from an early interception, and he also had to play most of the game without his top target. Star receiver Elijah Sarratt left in the first quarter with an apparent injury, ending his nation-leading streak of 46 consecutive games with a catch. Still, this was another one-sided game for the Hoosiers, who since winning at Oregon have added victories over Michigan State, UCLA and Maryland by a combined 120 points.

Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) raises his stick to the crowd after he was recognized for playing in his 1,500th NHL hockey game during a break in the action in the first period against the Ottawa Senators, Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Alex Ovechkin plays his 1,500th game for the Capitals, but goal No. 900 will have to wait

October 25, 2025

Alex Ovechkin had a chance to pull off a double milestone by reaching 900 goals in his 1,500th game. The Ottawa Senators were having none of it. The Capitals and their fans had a chance to celebrate the latter accomplishment, but goal No. 900 will have to wait. Washington was drubbed 7-1 by the Senators on Saturday night. A goal against Columbus on Friday night brought Ovechkin to 899, but he had only one shot Saturday. As a team, the Capitals were outshot 34-13.

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson walks on the sideline during the first half of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Lamar Jackson back on practice field for Ravens after missing 2 games with hamstring injury

October 22, 2025

Lamar Jackson has returned to the practice field for the Baltimore Ravens after missing two games with a hamstring injury. Jackson initially did not take the field with Baltimore’s other two quarterbacks, but with practice still open to reporters, he came out with his helmet on and did some throwing on Wednesday. The Ravens have been holding out hope that Jackson’s return can help save their season after four straight losses. Now all eyes will be on the two-time MVP to see what progress he makes this week. The Chicago Bears are in town Sunday.

Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) celebrates his goal with teammates during the third period of an NHL hockey game against the Minnesota Wild, Friday, Oct. 17, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Alex Ovechkin’s first goal of the season brings him within 2 of the 900 mark for his career

October 17, 2025

Alex Ovechkin scored his first goal of the season, moving to within two of 900 for his career and helping the Washington Capitals to a 5-1 victory over the Minnesota Wild. Ovechkin went without a goal in the season’s first four games — not a crisis but a longer dry spell than he had at any time last season. He scored 44 times in 2024-25 and eventually broke Wayne Gretzky’s NHL record with No. 895. Now that number is up to 898.

Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin looks on during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Minnesota Wild, Friday, Oct. 17, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Ovechkin scores 898th goal as Capitals top Wild 5-1 for their 4th straight victory

October 17, 2025

Alex Ovechkin scored for the first time this season, Dylan Strome added a pair of goals and the Washington Capitals beat the Minnesota Wild 5-1 for their fourth straight victory. Ovechkin’s third-period shot pinged off the left post and in, and the crowd roared its approval when the counter above one corner of the ice was flipped over to 898, his new career total. The NHL career leader in goals also had an assist as part of a dominant showing at home for Washington. Logan Thompson allowed only ex-Capital Marcus Johansson’s tally in the second. That tied the game at 1, but Aliaksei Protas answered 31 seconds later.

Boston Bruins right wing David Pastrnak (88) celebrates his goal during the second period of an NHL hockey game against the Washington Capitals, Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Pastrnak has a 3-point night in the Bruins’ 3-1 victory over Ovechkin and the Capitals

October 8, 2025

David Pastrnak had a goal and two assists and Jeremy Swayman made 34 saves to lift the Boston Bruins to a 3-1 win over Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals. Pastrnak scored in the second period and Elias Lindholm added a goal with 12:19 remaining in the third — just 38 seconds after Tom Wilson had tied the game at 1 for Washington. Morgan Geekie scored into an empty net with 57.1 seconds remaining. The Bruins made Marco Sturm a winner in his first game as coach, killing off all five of Washington’s power plays.

FILE - Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) looks on during a break in the first period of an NHL preseason hockey game against the Boston Bruins, Thursday, October. 2, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass, File)

Alex Ovechkin is ready for his 21st season in Washington and his first after turning 40

October 7, 2025

Alex Ovechkin begins season No. 21 with the Washington Capitals on Wednesday night when they host the Boston Bruins. It’s hard to imagine 2025-26 being more eventful than 2024-25, when he broke Wayne Gretzky’s record and become the league’s career leader in goals. But if last season was filled with anticipation — and ultimately celebration — this one may be more about appreciation. It could be the 40-year-old Ovechkin’s last in the NHL. He’s entering the final season of his contract and hasn’t said whether he intends to retire — or even how soon he expects to make a decision.

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson sits on the bench as his leg is worked on during the second half of an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Ravens have shut down the Texans recently. But now Baltimore’s defense is depleted

October 2, 2025

Baltimore and Houston are both 1-3, which adds plenty of urgency to their matchup Sunday. The Ravens had to face Buffalo, Detroit and Kansas City already, so their record wouldn’t be worth panicking over — if they were still at full strength. But they are far from it. The Ravens are decimated by injuries and have had few answers for the offensive stars they’ve gone up against already this season. Baltimore has allowed 133 points in four games. The situations has reached a point where Lamar Jackson’s possible absence is far from the Ravens’ only concern as they prepare to host Houston.

Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery (5) celebrates his touchdown run with teammates wide receiver Jameson Williams (1), tight end Brock Wright (89), guard Christian Mahogany (73) and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown (14) during the second half of an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

Lions run over the Ravens, sack Lamar Jackson 7 times in a 38-30 win over Baltimore

September 22, 2025

Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery ran for two touchdowns apiece, and the Detroit Lions bullied their way to a 38-30 win over the Baltimore Ravens. The Lions sacked Lamar Jackson seven times and outrushed the Ravens 224 yards to 85. Detroit scored on drives of 98 and 96 yards against a Baltimore front that was without defensive lineman Nnamdi Madubuike and showed little ability to handle the Lions physically up front. Up 31-24 at the two-minute warning, Detroit converted on fourth-and-2 from their own 49 when Jared Goff completed a 21-yard pass to Amon-Ra St. Brown. Then Montgomery raced for a 31-yard touchdown with 1:42 to play, capping a 151-yard night for the running back.

FILE - Washington Capitals' Alex Ovechkin (8) watches the puck against the Carolina Hurricanes during the first period of Game 3 of an NHL hockey Semi-final round playoff series in Raleigh, N.C., May 10, 2025. (AP Photo/Karl DeBlaker, File)

Alex Ovechkin just turned 40. The Washington star’s future past this season remains uncertain

September 18, 2025

Alex Ovechkin remains reticent about his future. He spoke with reporters at the Washington Capitals’ media day on Thursday. A day after his 40th birthday, the NHL’s career goal-scoring leader said he hasn’t been thinking much about what happens after this, his 21st season. That wait-and-see approach seems fine with the Capitals as Ovechkin enters the last season of his contract. The Russian star scored 44 goals last season despite a broken leg that limited him to 65 games. His pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s mark of 894 goals was a highlight of the NHL season, and Ovechkin enters the 2025-26 campaign three shy of 900.

RFK Stadium, the onetime home of the Washington Commanders football team, the Washington Senators and Washington Nationals baseball teams, and the D.C. United soccer team is being torn down, Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

DC Council gives final approval to the Washington Commanders’ return to the RFK Stadium site

September 17, 2025

The Washington Commanders’ plan to return to the site of their former home at RFK Stadium has cleared its final hurdle with the local legislature. The District of Columbia Council approved the legislation on Wednesday. The bill passed by an 11-2 vote and can now be sent to Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser. She negotiated the original plan with Commanders owner Josh Harris in April. The Commanders currently play at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, but aim to open a new venue in 2030.

Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry (22) fumble the ball as he is hit by Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Ed Oliver (91) during the second half of an NFL football game in Orchard Park, N.Y., Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Jeffrey T. Barnes)

Ravens’ late-game collapse against Bills raises more questions about their ability to finish

September 8, 2025

The Baltimore Ravens have built a reputation for excellence that they sabotage just enough to result in defeat. That was the story of Sunday night’s 41-40 loss at Buffalo. The Ravens moved the ball at will at times on offense but couldn’t hold onto the ball in the fourth quarter, giving the Bills a chance to rally. Coach John Harbaugh says “in hindsight,” the play-calling was an issue. The Ravens’ reputation for folding in big moments will likely hang over them all season — and nothing short of a Super Bowl run may be enough to change it.

Robert MacIntyre, of Scotland, chips onto the second green during the final round of the BMW Championship golf tournament Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025, in Owings Mills, Md. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

MacIntyre’s frustration: Scheffler’s long chip the latest epic shot to go against the Scot

August 17, 2025

Robert MacIntyre has faced two of golf’s most memorable shots this year. On Sunday, Scottie Scheffler’s 82-foot chip at the BMW Championship helped seal a two-stroke win over MacIntyre. That’s after J.J. Spaun’s long putt at the U.S. Open sealed a victory there over MacIntyre. MacIntyre started strong with a first-round 62 this week at Caves Valley, but he faltered with a final round of 73. His four-shot lead vanished within five holes due to three bogeys.

Akshay Bhatia hits from the seventh tee during the first round of the BMW Championship golf tournament Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025, in Owings Mills, Md. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

The scramble to make the FedEx Cup top 30 leads to plenty of drama at Caves Valley

August 16, 2025

Akshay Bhatia has made a splash at the BMW Championship with an eagle and a hole-in-one. Rickie Fowler sank a 57-foot birdie putt, while Taylor Pendrith struggled with an errant tee shot. These shots are crucial as players aim for the top 30 in the FedEx Cup standings to qualify for the Tour Championship. Bhatia, who started ranked 29th, is now projected at 28th. Fowler, currently 32nd, hopes to move up. Michael Kim and Sungjae Im are also in the mix.

Baltimore Ravens cornerback Marquise Robinson (28) reacts after making a hit on Indianapolis Colts running back Ulysses Bentley IV, not visible, during the second half of an NFL preseason football game Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Anthony Richardson injured as Colts fall to Ravens 24-16 in their preseason opener

August 7, 2025

Anthony Richardson’s preseason opener was cut short early, and the Indianapolis Colts went on to lose 24-16 to the Baltimore Ravens. Rookie LaJohntay Wester scored on an 87-yard punt return for the Ravens, and Keaton Mitchell ran for 68 yards and a touchdown. Baltimore won despite just 16 yards passing in the first half. Lamar Jackson did not play. The Indianapolis quarterback situation was always the more compelling aspect of this game. But after leading the Colts to a field goal on their opening offensive drive, Richardson left with an injured finger in the middle of their second possession after being sacked by David Ojabo.

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr. (5) is sacked by Baltimore Ravens linebacker David Ojabo (90) during the firs half of an NFL preseason football game Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Colts QB Richardson leaves preseason game with a pinky injury; CB Walley has a torn ACL

August 7, 2025

Indianapolis quarterback Anthony Richardson left the Colts’ preseason game against Baltimore after taking a sack from David Ojabo. Richardson is competing with Daniel Jones for the starting quarterback position. After the sack, Richardson jogged to the sideline and was replaced by Jones. He’d dislocated the pinky on his throwing hand. Coach Shane Steichen also said rookie cornerback Justin Walley had a torn ACL. He didn’t play in the game. The Ravens ended up beating the Colts 24-16.

FILE - People make their way to RFK Stadium in Washington before the start of an MLS soccer match between D.C. United and Toronto FC, Saturday, Aug. 5, 2017. D.C. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais, File)

Washington Commanders’ return to DC clears another hurdle with preliminary council approval

August 1, 2025

The Washington Commanders’ plan to return to the site of their former home at RFK Stadium has cleared another significant hurdle. The District of Columbia Council approved legislation on Friday, but it still needs a second approval before reaching Mayor Muriel Bowser. The Commanders, currently playing in Maryland, aim to open a new venue by 2030. The ownership group has been exploring locations in Washington, Maryland and Virginia since buying the team in 2022. Congress transferred the RFK Stadium land to the city in January, paving the way for redevelopment.

United States midfielder Claire Hutton (15) celebrates her goal with teammates during the first half of an international friendly soccer match against Canada, Wednesday, July 2, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Claire Hutton scores first international goal to help the United States beat Canada 3-0

July 2, 2025

Claire Hutton scored her first international goal as the U.S. beat Canada 3-0 in a friendly. Sam Coffey and Yazmeen Ryan also found the net. The Americans have five straight wins by a combined score of 18-0 since losing to Brazil in April. Hutton’s goal came in the 36th minute off a corner kick by Rose Lavelle, who also helped set up Coffey’s earlier goal. This was the third game in seven days for the U.S., following two 4-0 wins over Ireland. The Americans face South Korea and Japan in September.

Rory McIlroy, of Northern Ireland, stands on the 11th green after putting in during the final round of the U.S. Open golf tournament at Oakmont Country Club Sunday, June 15, 2025, in Oakmont, Pa. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Rory McIlroy ends his US Open on a high note with a 67. The next major is in his home country

June 15, 2025

Rory McIlroy shot a 3-under 67 to finish the U.S. Open at 7 over. That’s a performance he can build off as he works toward the year’s final major. Next month’s British Open at Royal Portrush is in his home country of Northern Ireland. First, McIlroy has the Travelers Championship in Connecticut next week. At times this week, he seemed eager to leave Oakmont behind. But he ended up feeling pretty good about his round Sunday — and the state of his driver.

Robert MacIntyre, of Scotland, and Cameron Young, left, shake hands after finishing the final round of the U.S. Open golf tournament at Oakmont Country Club Sunday, June 15, 2025, in Oakmont, Pa. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

MacIntyre made Spaun earn the U.S. Open title, nearly pulling off a record-tying comeback

June 15, 2025

Robert MacIntyre shot a 2-under 68 in the final round to finish the U.S. Open at 1 over — two strokes behind winner J.J. Spaun. MacIntyre was seven strokes back of leader Sam Burns at the beginning of the day. He actually made up 10 shots on Burns but couldn’t outlast Spaun. Arnold Palmer is still the only U.S. Open winner to come from seven strokes behind in the final round. He did it in 1960 at Cherry Hills. MacIntyre settled for sole possession of second place.

Rory McIlroy, of Northern Ireland, after sinking a putt on the eighth hole during the third round of the U.S. Open golf tournament at Oakmont Country Club Saturday, June 14, 2025, in Oakmont, Pa. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

McIlroy breaks his US Open silence after shooting a 74 in the third round at Oakmont

June 14, 2025

Rory McIlroy held his first post-round media session of the U.S. Open after shooting a 4-over 74 in the third round at Oakmont. He’d skipped talking to reporters after playing Thursday and Friday. McIlroy said that was out of frustration with reporters. Although he then said he wasn’t necessarily annoyed with reporters — but “just the whole thing.” It was only a couple months ago that McIlroy won the Masters to complete the career Grand Slam. Following that up has been difficult. McIlroy’s driver was deemed nonconforming before the PGA Championship. He was annoyed that that news leaked out and didn’t speak to the media after any of the four rounds at Quail Hollow.

Scottie Scheffler plays out of the Church Pews bunker on the third hole during the second round of the U.S. Open golf tournament at Oakmont Country Club Friday, June 13, 2025, in Oakmont, Pa. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Scheffler: ‘Definitely not out of the tournament’ after another US Open round over par

June 13, 2025

Scottie Scheffler battled his way to a 1-over 71 at the U.S. Open. That was a slight improvement on his first-round 73 but still not the type of performance that’s made him the game’s dominant player the past three years. He has 36 more holes to try to unleash the form that produced wins in three of his last four tournaments. Scheffler hit into Oakmont’s famous Church Pew bunker for the third time in two days. He also bogeyed a hole despite nearly driving the green.

J.J. Spaun walks across a bridge over the Pennsylvania Turnpike, which runs through Oakmont Country Club, during the first round of the U.S. Open golf tournament Thursday, June 12, 2025, in Oakmont, Pa. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

A golf course with a 6-lane highway? Welcome to the US Open at Oakmont, where I-76 somehow blends in

June 13, 2025

From an overhead view, the sight is somewhat jarring. The Pennsylvania Turnpike essentially cuts Oakmont’s golf course in half. At ground level, though, the highway is surprisingly unintrusive at this week’s U.S. Open. In fact, it can’t be seen from much of Oakmont’s layout. The biggest reason the roadway blends in when you’re on the course is because there’s an elevation change down to the highway. So the Turnpike presents largely as a gap in the middle of the course. That’s if it’s perceptible at all.

After 2 straight missed cuts in majors, Brooks Koepka is in early contention at Oakmont

June 12, 2025

Another round like this, and Brooks Koepka should be back for the weekend in a major. After missing the cut at the Masters and PGA Championship, Koepka shot a 2-under 68 in the first round of the U.S. Open at Oakmont. That left him in a tie for third, two strokes behind leader J.J. Spaun. Koepka made a 42-foot putt for eagle on the par-5 fourth. After falling back to even par, he finished with birdies on Nos. 17 and 18.

Rory McIlroy, of Northern Ireland, prepares to hit from the tall grass on the fourth hole during the first round of the U.S. Open golf tournament at Oakmont Country Club Thursday, June 12, 2025, in Oakmont, Pa. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

Slumping Rory McIlroy fails to take advantage of a bright start at Oakmont, shoots 74 in first round

June 12, 2025

A poor second nine left Rory McIlroy with a 4-over 74 in the first round of the U.S. Open at Oakmont. He played his final six holes in 5 over. This U.S. Open course was expected to be tough, but this wasn’t exactly a huge step forward after McIlroy shot a 78 in the second round at the Canadian Open last week and missed the cut there. McIlroy started his round on No. 10 and birdied two of his first three holes. He later bogeyed Nos. 1, 4, 6 and 7 before a double bogey on 8.

Harbaugh says cutting ties with Justin Tucker was a ‘complex’ decision for the Ravens

May 28, 2025

Ravens coach John Harbaugh was available to local reporters for the first time since they announced May 5 they were releasing kicker Justin Tucker. The five-time All-Pro had been accused by over a dozen massage therapists of inappropriate sexual behavior, according to reporting by the Baltimore Banner. The NFL said it would investigate, but it’s not clear when that process will conclude. Harbaugh says it was a complex decision-making process on what to do with Tucker. But ultimately the team needed to have a kicker ready to go for Week 1.

NOAH TRISTER Sports Writer.