National Sports.

FILE - Reveille X, the live mascot of Texas A&M, watches the Aggies play Alabama during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Oct. 8, 2022, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt, File)

Texas A&M’s collie mascot Reveille X has eye removed after glaucoma diagnosis

Texas A&M’s border collie mascot has had her right eye removed due to glaucoma. The university’s president announced Wednesday that Reveille X underwent surgery after experiencing discomfort and cloudiness in her eye. The veterinary team decided to remove it after finding abnormal tissue. Reveille X is now recovering. She will take a break from her duties but is expected to return to her activities this fall. Reveille X became mascot in 2021, and the tradition dates back to 1931. She is also known as the “First Lady of Aggieland.”

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FILE - Ohio State head coach Ryan Day looks on before the College Football Playoff national championship game against Notre Dame, Jan. 20, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Jacob Kupferman, File)

NIL promises made to recruits, now coaches wait for key decision to learn whether they can keep them

Next week, college football coaches can put the recruiting promises they’ve made to high school seniors on paper. Then, the question becomes whether they can keep them. Uncertainty over interpretations of a key element of the lawsuit settlement that’s reshaping college sports has placed recruiters on a tightrope. They need clarity about whether the third-party collectives that ruled name, image, likeness payments over the first four years of NIL can be treated as a workaround of the $20.5 million cap on what schools can now pay players directly or whether they’ll simply become a small cog in the new system.

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Miami quarterback Carson Beck, who transferred from Georgia, speaks at the Atlantic Coast Conference NCAA college football media days, Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Steve Reed)

Several ACC teams have turned to the transfer portal for high-level QBs in 2025

Eight of the top 25 quarterbacks in the transfer portal have landed in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Carson Beck moved from Georgia to Miami, seeing himself as a fit for the Hurricanes’ offensive scheme. Miller Moss left USC for Louisville to work with coach Jeff Brohm. Tommy Castellanos transferred from Boston College to Florida State, aiming to upend Alabama in the season opener. Each quarterback has unique reasons for transferring, including NIL money and aspirations of NFL success. The ACC also boasts talented returning quarterbacks like Clemson’s Cade Klubnik. The conference is shaping up to be highly competitive this season.

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San Francisco Giants designated hitter Rafael Devers (16) celebrates his three-run home run against the Atlanta Braves in the sixth inning of a baseball game, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Verlander ends historic 16-game winless streak as Devers’ 2 homers power Giants past Braves 9-3

Justin Verlander has ended the longest winless streak for a Giants pitcher in a single season. He led San Francisco to a 9-3 victory Wednesday over the Atlanta Braves. Verlander, who signed a one-year deal in January, allowed just one hit in five scoreless innings. Rafael Devers drove in four runs with three hits, including two home runs. He hit a homer in the fifth inning and added a three-run shot in the sixth. The Giants outscored the Braves 18-3 in the final two games of the series. Matt Chapman added a two-run homer for San Francisco.

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San Francisco Giants pitcher Justin Verlander (35) delivers in the first inning of a baseball game against the Atlanta Braves, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Verlander finds bottle of his favorite wine waiting at his locker after elusive 1st win with Giants

Justin Verlander overcame the Atlanta Braves — and the rain — to end the longest winless streak in a season in Giants history. The 42-year-old Verlander had been winless in his first 16 starts with San Francisco before allowing only one hit in five scoreless innings to beat the Atlanta Braves 9-3 on Wednesday. His teammates helped the three-time Cy Young Award winner celebrate by leaving a bottle of wine at his locker. The win was more than a personal drought-breaker for Verlander. It gave the Giants the series win after Tuesday night’s 9-0 victory ended a six-game losing streak.

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Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts runs a drill during an NFL football training camp, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

Be like Mike? Jalen Hurts gets championship tip from Michael Jordan on how to win another Super Bowl

Jalen Hurts considers Michael Jordan a friend, and he values his advice. Jordan, who won six NBA titles, shared wisdom with Hurts after the Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl win. On Wednesday, during the first day of training camp, Hurts said Jordan used every word but “repeat” when discussing the upcoming season. The Eagles, including coach Nick Sirianni and offensive lineman Jordan Mailata, are focused on resetting for 2025. Hurts, who won Super Bowl MVP, said the season is a blank canvas. He hasn’t been seen wearing his Super Bowl ring, emphasizing his focus on the future.

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New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart (6) throws as quarterback Russell Wilson (3) watches during practice at the team's NFL football training camp in East Rutherford, N.J., Wednesday, July 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Giants open camp with Jaxson Dart in the spotlight but Russell Wilson still starting quarterback

So much of the attention going into New York Giants training camp is on first-round pick and quarterback of the future Jaxson Dart. But coach Brian Daboll made it clear the plan hasn’t changed and that Russell Wilson is the starter. Wilson took all of the first-team snaps in the first practice of camp, with Dart and journeyman Jameis Winston rotating second and third. Daboll won’t say whether the backup job to Wilson is up for grabs this preseason. General manager Joe Schoen deferred to the coaching staff to determine when it might be time to turn to Dart.

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‘Happy Gilmore’ became a cult comedy. 29 years later, Adam Sandler is swinging again

Adam Sandler’s “Happy Gilmore” became one of the most beloved comedies of the ’90s and codified the hockey-style swing as a mainstay on golf courses. “A hop, skip and a hit,” as Sandler says. “Happy Gilmore” made comic heroes of Bob Barker, Christopher McDonald and Carl Weathers, and turned lines like “Are you too good for your home?” plausible things to ask golf balls. Now, nearly three decades later, and after years of batting away pleas for a sequel, Sandler has finally put Happy’s Bruins jersey back on. “Happy Gilmore 2” debuts Friday on Netflix and is arguably the most anticipated streaming release of the summer.

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FILE - The guided-missile destroyer USS Stockdale leaves Naval Base Coronado Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2016, in Coronado, Calif. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull, File)

NASCAR will hold first street race on active military base at Naval Base Coronado in 2026

NASCAR will hold a street race on Naval Base Coronado in Southern California next June as a replacement for its downtown Chicago event that ran the last three years. The move to the San Diego area doesn’t eliminate a return to Chicago, where NASCAR will still maintain an office and effort an eventual return, perhaps as early as 2027. But the shift next year will allow NASCAR to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy by hosting all three of its national series over a three-day weekend on June 19-21.

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Venus Williams celebrates her win over Peyton Stearns during a match at the Citi Open tennis tournament Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

45-year-old Venus Williams becomes the oldest woman since Martina Navratilova to win a singles match

Venus Williams has become the oldest woman to win a tour-level singles match since Martina Navratilova. Williams delivered some of her familiar big serves and groundstrokes at age 45 while beating Peyton Stearns — a player who is 22 years younger — by a 6-3, 6-4 score at the DC Open. Tuesday night’s victory in Washington was the first for Williams in nearly two years. Navratilova was 47 in 2004 when she won for the final time. The former No. 1-ranked Williams had not played singles in an official match since March 2024 in Miami, missing time while having surgery to remove uterine fibroids.

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FILE - Stanford's new coach Frank Reich listens as he's introduced during NCAA college football news conference, Tuesday, April 1, 2025, in Stanford, Calif. (AP Photo/Emily Steinberger, File)

Frank Reich excited about Bryce Young’s resurgence after ‘terrible’ start to QB’s NFL career

Former Panthers coach Frank Reich recently reflected on his time coaching quarterback Bryce Young. Speaking at ACC media days on Tuesday, Reich expressed happiness for Young’s late-season resurgence in 2024. Young, who struggled early in his career, was benched in his second season but made a strong comeback after an injury to veteran Andy Dalton. He ended the season with impressive stats, giving the Panthers hope for the future. Reich, fired after 11 games in 2023, said starting Young as a rookie was the right decision. Young now enters his third season as Carolina’s clear starting quarterback.

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Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Rich Hill throws against the Chicago Cubs during the first inning of a baseball game in Chicago, Tuesday, July 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Rich Hill becomes oldest player in majors at 45 with start against Cubs

Kansas City’s Rich Hill seemed a bit rusty in his return to the majors as baseball’s oldest active player. His Royals teammates didn’t make the 45-year-old left-hander’s start against the Cubs any easier. Hill gave up three runs and six hits over five innings in his first major league appearance since last September with Boston.  He threw 90 pitches (55 strikes), walking two and striking out one. He left with Chicago leading 3-0. Hill’s start at Wrigley Field marked the debut of his 21st season in the majors and his first with Kansas City. The Royals are his 14th major league team, matching Edwin Jackson’s record. Hill became the oldest player to start a major league game since May 27, 2012, when lefty Jamie Moyer tossed his final game with Colorado at age 49.

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San Francisco Giants' Rafael Devers (16) makes the tag on Atlanta Braves' Nick Allen (2) at first base in the fifth inning of a baseball game, Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Rafael Devers debuts at first base for Giants after refusing to play position for Red Sox

Rafael Devers has made his debut at first base for the San Francisco Giants. Tuesday night’s start at Atlanta was the slugger’s first at the position that he refused to play for his previous team, the Boston Red Sox. Boston traded Devers to San Francisco in June after his relationship with management deteriorated less than two years into a 10-year, $313.5 million contract he signed in 2023. After the trade, Devers said he felt he had “earned some respect” because of his production in Boston. But he added that he’d be happy to play first for the Giants.

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New York Liberty's Sabrina Ionescu, left, talks with Indiana Fever's Caitlin Clark during the second half of a WNBA All-Star basketball game against Team Collier, Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

Caitlin Clark’s injury woes continue, misses second straight game against New York

Caitlin Clark missed her second straight game against New York while recovering from an injury to her right groin. The Fever’s star guard also was absent from the team’s game against the Liberty before the All-Star break. She was supposed to compete in the 3-point contest as well as Saturday’s All-Star Game, but missed both events. Clark told reporters on Saturday night that she had been getting treatment during the festivities, which took place in Indianapolis. She was injured in the final minute of last Tuesday’s victory at Connecticut.

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Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters, right, speaks as head coach Dan Quinn, left, looks on during a news conference at the NFL football team's training camp in Ashburn, Va., Tuesday, July 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Luis M. Alvarez)

Commanders GM says non-football topics such as President Trump’s comments don’t reach him

Washington’s NFL franchise used to be in the news all the time for reasons other than football. That seemed to have changed under new team ownership, but President Donald Trump’s remarks about the team name and possibly holding up a stadium deal are making waves just as training camp opens. Still, Commanders general manager Adam Peters made clear Tuesday — at a news conference with coach Dan Quinn a day before the team’s first training camp practice — that he doesn’t expect any of that sort of outside conversation to interfere with their real jobs.

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Dallas Cowboys defensive end Micah Parsons runs off the field after training camp Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Oxnard, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Micah Parsons: ‘Not really much movement’ in contract extension talks with Cowboys

Micah Parsons has not seen progress in negotiations with the Dallas Cowboys but does not intend to hold out of training camp as the two-time All-Pro defensive end seeks a contract extension that would likely make him the highest-paid defender in NFL history. Parsons reported to camp Monday and worked out on a limited basis with the team as it started practicing Tuesday. He then responded to comments made by Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones during a news conference the previous day.

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Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney, with ACC commissioner Atlantic Coast Conference Commissioner Jim Phillips by his sides, looks on after winning the ACC championship NCAA college football game between Clemson and SMU, Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Jacob Kupferman, File)

The ACC has moved past lawsuits and uncertainty. Commissioner Jim Phillips sees stable years ahead

The Atlantic Coast Conference is entering the 2025-26 sports season having moved past uncertainty from its legal fight with member schools Clemson and Florida State. Earlier this year, the league reached a settlement in those cases that reshaped the league’s revenue-sharing model. The league also saw ESPN pick up the option to extend its base-rights media deal with the league. That’s why commissioner Jim Phillips described recent months as “the restabilization of a great league” in an interview with The Associated Press. Phillips spoke at the opening of the league’s preseason football media days.

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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’s Petitti: No support for SEC’s at-large bid preference for College Football Playoff

The Big Ten commissioner is reiterating the league’s preference for multiple automatic qualifiers in the next version of the College Football Playoff, increasing the likelihood of a showdown with the Southeastern Conference when the format for 2026 is decided. Commissioner Tony Petitti says any change that adds at-large bids and increases the discretion and role of a selection committee — a format the SEC and others have shown a preference for — “will have a difficulft time getting support of the Big Ten.”

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Miami coach Mario Cristobal speaks at the Atlantic Coast Conference NCAA college football media days, Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Steve Reed)

Cristobal blames defense for Miami’s late-season collapse as Hurricanes look to ‘finish’ in 2025

The Miami Hurricanes fell short of the ACC championship last season despite a strong start. After a 9-0 run, late-season losses to Georgia Tech and Syracuse derailed their chances. Coach Mario Cristobal blamed defensive struggles and injuries, leading to staff changes. That included hiring Corey Hetherman as defensive coordinator. The ACC has also introduced public game-availability reports for football, basketball, and baseball to address transparency amid legalized sports betting. Additionally, the league announced fines for field-storming, starting at $50,000. Meanwhile, Virginia’s Jahmeer Carter has improved his fitness by focusing on nutrition and Cal is leveraging Ron Rivera’s NFL expertise to rebuild its program.

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SMU coach Rhett Lashlee speaks at the Atlantic Coast Conference NCAA college football media days, Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Steve Reed)

SMU’s successful bid to join ACC leads to playoff berth, record donations — and more interest

SMU made a bold bid to join the Atlantic Coast Conference, and that bet is paying off. The Mustangs gave up nine years of media revenue to leave the American Conference, where they won the 2023 championship. They went undefeated in conference play in the regular season, reaching the championship game and earning a spot in the College Football Playoff. The move has energized the program, boosting donations, ticket sales, and applications. Coach Rhett Lashlee says the success validates the school’s efforts. With strong recruiting in Texas and rising momentum, SMU is aiming even higher this season.

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FILE - New Orleans Saints safety Tyrann Mathieu looks to the scoreboard during the second half of an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Oct. 7, 2024 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann, File)

Saints safety Tyrann ‘Honey Badger’ Mathieu retires after 12 NFL seasons

New Orleans safety Tyrann Mathieu announced on the day the Saints opened training camp that he’s retiring from the NFL after 12 seasons. The three-time All-Pro was known as the “Honey Badger” for the relentless play in college that made him a Heisman Trophy finalist. The 33-year-old Mathieu grew up in New Orleans and went to LSU. In college, his toughness earned comparisons to the honey badger, a carnivorous mammal known to fight off much larger predators like lions and hyena. In 12 NFL seasons with Cardinals, Texans, Chiefs and Saints, Mathieu intercepted 36 passes, running four back for touchdowns, and forced seven fumbles. He was a member of Kansas City’s 2019 championship team.

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Los Angeles Sparks's Kelsey Plum, left, goes to the basket against Seattle Storm's Gabby Williams during the second half of a WNBA All-Star basketball game, Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

WNBA set to quickly tip off second half of season after short All-Star break

The WNBA tips off the second half of its season on Tuesday night with 10 of the 13 teams playing. Players weren’t thrilled having to play so soon after the All-Star break and hope to add more of a break in the next collective bargaining agreement that they are currently negotiating with the league. Atlanta has back-to-back games on Tuesday and Wednesday while New York and many other teams have three games this week.

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Tampa Bay Rays manger Kevin Cash congratulates Tampa Brandon Lowe after Lowe's home run during the third inning of a baseball game against the Athletics Tuesday, July 1, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)

Rays place Brandon Lowe on 10-day injured list and acquire Stuart Fairchild

The Tampa Bay Rays have placed second baseman Brandon Lowe on the 10-day injured list and acquired outfielder Stuart Fairchild from the Braves for cash considerations. Lowe has been dealing with tendinitis in his left ankle. He exited Saturday’s game and was initially diagnosed with plantar fasciitis. The injury was later clarified as tendinitis. His IL placement on Tuesday was retroactive to July 20, indicating he could return before the July 31 trade deadline. Lowe has been mentioned in trade rumors with several contenders needing help at second base, including the Giants and Astros.

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FILE - San Antonio Spurs guard Chris Paul (3) shoots over Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Los Angeles, March 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong, file)

Bradley Beal’s unexpected gift to Chris Paul: A number with meaning

Chris Paul is returning to the Los Angeles Clippers and will wear his iconic No. 3 jersey. Bradley Beal, newly acquired by the team, has agreed to give up the number he’s worn his entire NBA career. On Tuesday, Clippers president Lawrence Frank shared that Beal offered the gesture as soon as he heard Paul might join the team. Paul, known as “CP3,” has worn No. 3 since entering the NBA in 2005. Last season, Paul played for San Antonio, where a teammate also gave up the number for him. Beal has not yet chosen a new number for the upcoming season.

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FILE –This Oct. 22, 2015 file photo shows U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, on Capitol Hill. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File)

Republican Jim Jordan deposed in federal suit tied to sex abuse by late Ohio State team doctor

A court filing shows Republican U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan was questioned under oath about the sexual abuse of Ohio State University athletes decades ago by a team doctor. Jordan’s deposition Friday came in a federal lawsuit former student-athletes brought against the university alleging it failed to stop abuse by Dr. Richard Strauss, who died in 2005. Jordan was an assistant wrestling coach from 1986 to 1994, a tenure that overlapped with Strauss’s. Many ex-wrestlers have accused him of knowing about and ignoring the abuse. His office reiterated Jordan was unaware of Strauss’ crimes or “he would have dealt with it.”

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Belgium's Emma Meesseman, center, tries to score against Spain's Andrea Vilaro, during the FIBA Women's EuroBasket 2025 final match between Spain and Belgium at the Peace and Friendship Stadium in Piraeus near Athens, Greece, Sunday, June 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Yorgos Karahalis)

Emma Meesseman will join the Liberty in her return to the WNBA

Emma Meesseman, the 2019 WNBA Finals MVP who last played in the league in 2022, is joining the New York Liberty. The 32-year-old forward last played in the league in 2022 and has been focused on leading the Belgium national team. The timing of Meesseman’s arrival in the U.S. will be determined by how long it takes to get her visa. Kolb said that a contract hasn’t been signed yet, but Meeseeman committed to joining the franchise. New York has a busy second half of the season with 23 games left over the next few months. The two-time All-Star led the Washington Mystics to the 2019 title.

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FILE - Fan fill Arrowhead Stadium during the first half of an NFL football game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann, File)

Chiefs press on with stadium negotiations on both sides of the Kansas-Missouri state line

The Kansas City Chiefs are negotiating stadium deals with lawmakers in Kansas and Missouri, raising questions about their future at Arrowhead Stadium. The team recently received an extension on a Kansas financing package, signaling a possible move from Missouri. Meanwhile, Missouri has offered funding, including bonds and tax credits, to keep the Chiefs. Both states are competing to secure the franchise. Arrowhead’s lease expires in 2031. Chiefs owner Clark Hunt is weighing renovation or building a new enclosed stadium. The Kansas City Royals, sharing the current complex, plan to build a ballpark elsewhere.

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Venus Williams reaches for the ball during a doubles match with Hailey Baptiste against Eugenie Bouchard and Clervie Ngounoue at the Citi Open tennis tournament Monday, July 21, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Venus Williams wins a doubles match at Washington in her first tournament in more than a year

Venus Williams has competed at a tournament for the first time in more than a year — and in doubles for the first time in nearly three — and has come out with a victory. Williams and partner Hailey Baptiste defeated 2014 Wimbledon runner-up Eugenie Bouchard and Clervie Ngounoue 6-3, 6-1 on Monday at the DC Open. The stands were full and the crowd included NBA star Kevin Durant. Williams has won seven Grand Slam singles titles and another 14 major trophies in doubles with her younger sister Serena. Venus is 45 and hadn’t played a match on tour since March 2024.

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FILE - Boston Red Sox pitcher Rich Hill throws against the Detroit Tigers in the seventh inning of a baseball game, Aug. 31, 2024, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya, File)

Royals calling up 45-year-old pitcher Rich Hill from minors for a start against the Cubs

The Kansas City Royals plan to call up 45-year-old pitcher Rich Hill from the minors for a start against the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday, marking the left-hander’s 21st season in the majors. Hill has been at Triple-A Omaha after joining the Royals as part of an offseason trade. He is 4-4 with a 5.36 ERA in nine starts at Omaha. Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro confirmed the club’s plans after Monday night’s 12-4 win over the Cubs at Wrigley Field.

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Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Shohei Ohtani gestures after hitting a two-run home run during the first inning of a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins in Los Angeles, Monday, July 21, 2025. (AP Photo/Jayne Kamin-Oncea)

Shohei Ohtani gives up his first homer of the season, then hits a 2-run shot of his own

Shohei Ohtani gave up his first home run of the season but quickly answered with a two-run shot of his own. On Monday night, Minnesota’s Byron Buxton hit a 410-foot homer on Ohtani’s second pitch. In the bottom of the inning, Ohtani responded with a 441-foot blast, giving the Dodgers a 2-1 lead. Ohtani became the first Dodgers pitcher to homer in the first inning since 1977. He allowed one run and four hits over three innings, striking out three. Ohtani is building back from elbow surgery and has now homered in three straight games for the struggling Dodgers.

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Philadelphia Phillies' Edmundo Sosa, right, hits the glove of Boston Red Sox catcher Carlos Narváez for catcher's interference with the bases loaded in the 10th inning of a baseball game Monday, July 21, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Phillies claim another wild, walk-off win on catcher’s interference with bases loaded in 10th

Edmundo Sosa’s teammates on the Philadelphia Phillies mobbed him beyond first base after a 3-2, walk-off win over the Boston Red Sox on Monday night. In the moment, it didn’t matter to him that he’d gotten there thanks to a call of catcher’s interference. Sosa won the game when, with the bases loaded and no out in the 10th inning, his check swing on a 2-2 pitch struck the glove of catcher Carlos Narvaez. The Phillies dugout called for a review, which showed the contact, allowing Sosa to take first and automatic runner Brandon Marsh to score the winning run.

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Philadelphia Phillies' Edmundo Sosa, right, hits the glove of Boston Red Sox catcher Carlos Narváez for catcher's interference with the bases loaded in the 10th inning of a baseball game Monday, July 21, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Phillies get 3-2, walk-off win over Boston on catcher’s interference call with bases loaded in 10th

Automatic runner Brandon Marsh scored on a call of catcher’s interference with the bases loaded in the bottom of the 10th inning to give the Philadelphia Phillies a 3-2 walk-off win over the Boston Red Sox. With nobody out in the bottom of the 10th, Edmundo Sosa’s made a check swing on a pitch from Jordan Hicks (1-6) that was called a ball and his bat hit the glove of catcher Carlos Narvaez. The Phillies’ asked for a review and the ball call was overturned, allowing Marsh to score the winning run without a Philadelphia hit in the inning. It is the first walk-off win due to catcher’s interference since Aug. 1, 1971, when the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Cincinnati Reds.

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FILE - Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (0) celebrates after a shot against the Orlando Magic during the second half of an NBA basketball game, March 5, 2023, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Kevin Kolczynski, File)

Injured Damian Lillard is grateful to be ‘back home’ with the Trail Blazers

It hit Damian Lillard as he drove home with his kids after signing a contract to return to the Portland Trail Blazers. He was coming home. Lillard’s three children accompanied him to sign his three-year, $42 million deal with the Blazers over the weekend. The contract includes a no-trade clause and he can opt out after two seasons. Lillard spoke at a news conference on Monday evening, saying it’s meaningful to return to the city where he’s spent most of his adult life. The 35-year-old is unlikely to play this season while recovering from a torn Achilles tendon.

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FILE - San Antonio Spurs guard Chris Paul (3) celebrates a basket during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Toronto Raptors, April 13, 2025, in San Antonio. (AP Photo/Darren Abate, File)

Chris Paul returns to Clippers for what’s expected to be his 21st and final NBA season

Chris Paul is rejoining the Los Angeles Clippers for what is expected to be his 21st and final NBA season. The 12-time All-Star was a free agent after playing all 82 games for the San Antonio Spurs last season. He was the first NBA player to achieve this in his 20th season or later. Paul had expressed a desire to play near his family in Los Angeles. He joins a veteran roster featuring stars like Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. Paul previously played six seasons with the Clippers, where he set the franchise record for assists.

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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

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.

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FILE - Washington Commanders jerseys are displayed at an event to unveil the NFL football team's new identity, Feb. 2, 2022, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, file)

White House says Donald Trump is serious about wanting the Commanders to revert to Redskins

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump is serious about wanting the NFL’s Washington Commanders to go back to the name Redskins. Leavitt said Monday that Trump’s threats to hold up a stadium deal for the team were not a joke. Trump posted on social media on Sunday that he wanted to see the Commanders and Major League Baseball’s Cleveland Guardians return to Native American names that each team abandoned years ago. Leavitt called Trump a “nontraditional president” whose opinion she said is supported by many sports fans.

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A video screen displays the Ole Miss team logo before a Gator Bowl NCAA college football game between Mississippi and Duke in Jacksonville, Fla., Jan. 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Gary McCullough)

Relatives, authorities ask for public’s help with investigation of Ole Miss player’s fatal shooting

Authorities are asking for members of the public to provide surveillance footage and details from eyewitnesses as they investigate the fatal shooting of an Ole Miss football player in Memphis after a pool party. Corey Adams was an 18-year-old defensive lineman from New Orleans. Authorities say he was found with a gunshot wound inside a vehicle at an intersection in the Memphis suburb of Cordova on Saturday night. The shooting happened after a pool party attended by about 100 people, including Adams. About 40 rifle and pistol casings were found at the shooting scene.

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FILE - Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis (8) lines up on the sideline before facing the Jacksonville Jaguars, in an NFL football game in Jacksonville, Fla., Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Gary McCullough, file)

Titans QB Will Levis will have season-ending shoulder surgery

Tennessee quarterback Will Levis will have season-ending shoulder surgery, keeping him from competing for playing time in his third season with the Titans. The Titans announced Monday that Levis made his decision after consulting with doctors and his representatives. The Titans report Tuesday for training camp. The Titans said in a statement they support Levis’ decision to focus on his long-term health. Tennessee opens the preseason until Aug. 9 at Tampa Bay with the regular-season opener Sept. 7 at Denver. The Titans used the No. 1 overall pick on quarterback Cam Ward in April after going 3-14 with Levis struggling as a starter.

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Jerry Jones, Dallas Cowboys owner, president, and general manager speaks to reporters during a news conference to open training camp Monday, July 21, 2025, in Oxnard, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Jerry Jones says he’ll remain as Cowboys GM and ‘nothing new’ in Micah Parsons contract talks

Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones did not have any updates on the status of contract negotiations with star defensive end Micah Parsons ahead of the start of training camp. Jones expressed confidence a potential hold-in by the 26-year-old Parsons would not impact the team’s preparations. The contract impasse with Parsons comes after Dallas went 7-10 last season after protracted negotiations of new deals for quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. The 82-year-old Jones also said Monday he has no plans to step down as GM.

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Indiana Fever's Caitlin Clark sits on the bench after an apparent injury during the second half of a WNBA basketball game against the Connecticut Sun, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)

Uncertainty continues for Fever and Caitlin Clark as her healthy teammates carry their playoff hopes

The Indiana Fever thought Caitlin Clark’s return might solve their wild first-half ride. They were getting healthy, beating good teams and starting to meet expectations. Then the two-time All-Star got hurt again in the final minute of last Tuesday’s game at Connecticut. Indiana lost by double digits the next night to defending champion New York. Clark missed last weekend’s All-Star festivities in Indianapolis and is likely to sit out Tuesday night when the Fever again play the Liberty. It’s all creating uncertainty about Clark and Indiana’s championship aspirations.

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Retired NBA player and current coach Stacey Augmon speaks during a Q&A after previewing the "UNLV: Runnin' Rebels" documentary during the Summer League Film Festival, Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Las Vegas (AP Photo/Jonathan Landrum Jr.)

Hollywood meets NBA hardwood: A look inside the rise of the Summer League Film Festival

The NBA Summer League in Las Vegas has become more than just basketball. Alongside the games, the Summer League Film Festival showcased 34 film projects by current and former NBA stars. Hollywood insiders, including Kevin Garnett and Mark Wahlberg, attended the event, which aims to bridge sports and filmmaking. On Sunday, retired player Stacey Augmon previewed a documentary about the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels, receiving a standing ovation. Organizers see the festival as a platform for athletes to share their stories and gain industry support. Sundance and other collaborators are exploring ways to elevate these projects to wider audiences.

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Denny Hamlin celebrates in Victory Lane after winning a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Dover Motor Speedway, Sunday, July 20, 2025, in Dover, Del. (AP Photo/Derik Hamilton)

Denny Hamlin continues climb in NASCAR’s career wins list. With 60 in sight, how far can he go?

Denny Hamlin won his 58th career NASCAR Cup Series race at Dover Motor Speedway. The victory moved him two away from cracking the top 10 in NASCAR’s career wins list. Hamlin has stood his ground through the years that race wins matter more to his legacy than winning his first career championship. Hamlin is the first Cup driver with four wins this season. He won eight times in 2010, six times in 2019 and seven in 2020, all totals that would get him to 60 this year.

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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

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.

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John Oliver and Fuss E. Mammoth, the Moon Mammoth mascot, are driven onto the field before a game between the Chesapeake Oyster Catchers and the Erie Moon Mammoths at UMPC Park in Erie, Pa., on Saturday, July 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Joe Reedy)

John Oliver’s Erie Moon Mammoths debut in front of a record crowd

John Oliver brought his quirky humor to minor league baseball with the debut of the Erie Moon Mammoths. The team, rebranded by Oliver’s “Last Week Tonight,” played its first game on Saturday night in front of a record crowd of 7,070. The idea began in May when Oliver invited teams to pitch why they deserved a rebrand. The Erie SeaWolves won and after weeks of planning, the Moon Mammoths, complete with a space-themed woolly mammoth mascot, were unveiled. Fans have embraced the eccentric team, with record merchandise sales and packed games. Oliver even threw the first pitch and joined the fun as a batboy.

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FILE - Buffalo Bills' Damar Hamlin speaks after being introduced as the winner of the Alan Page Community Award during a news conference ahead of the Super Bowl 57 NFL football game Feb. 8, 2023, in Phoenix. Damar's parents Mario and Nina Hamlin, center, look on with NFLPA President JC Tretter, left. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart, File)

NFL Players Association executive JC Tretter is resigning amid union overhaul

NFLPA chief strategy officer JC Tretter is resigning from his position, three days after Lloyd Howell stepped down as executive director of the players’ union. Tretter told CBS Sports on Sunday that he doesn’t want to be considered for the NFLPA’s interim executive director position and denied he played any role in undermining Howell’s position. The 34-year-old Tretter, who played center for eight seasons with Green Bay and Cleveland through 2021, was the player president from 2020 to 2024. He served in his new role since October 2024.

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Milwaukee Brewers relief pitcher Abner Uribe throws to the plate during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Sunday, July 20, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Brewers edge Dodgers for 10th straight win, completing season sweep

Abner Uribe retired Mookie Betts with the bases loaded for the final out, and the Milwaukee Brewers beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 6-5 for their 10th straight victory. Shohei Ohtani hit a two-run homer for the Dodgers, but Isaac Collins snapped a sixth-inning tie with a two-run single as the Brewers finished 6-0 this season against the defending World Series champions. They extended their longest winning streak since 2021 by sweeping the NL West leaders for the second time in two weeks. Los Angeles has dropped 10 of 12 overall. Collins’ two-out single off reliever Lou Trivino broke a 4-all tie and put Milwaukee ahead for good. Jose Quintana allowed four runs over six innings for the win.

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New York Yankees' Aaron Judge (99) celebrates his solo home run against the Atlanta Braves in the first inning of a baseball game, Sunday, July 20, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Aaron Judge ties A-Rod on Yankees’ all-time home run list at 351 in win over Braves

Aaron Judge hit the first home run of his MLB career the day after Alex Rodriguez retired. Now, the two are tied on the Yankees’ all-time home run list. Judge hit his 351st career homer in a 4-2 win over the Braves on Sunday, moving into a tie with A-Rod for sixth place in Yankees history. Judge trails Yankee greats Babe Ruth (659), Mickey Mantle (536), Lou Gehrig (493), Joe DiMaggio (361) and Yogi Berra (358) in career homers for New York. Judge’s homer on Sunday was his 36th of the season.

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New York Yankees' Aaron Judge (99) hits a solo home run against the Atlanta Braves in the first inning of a baseball game, Sunday, July 20, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Aaron Judge ties A-Rod with 351st homer for Yankees in a 4-2 win over the Braves

Aaron Judge hit his 36th home run of the season and tied Alex Rodriguez for sixth place in Yankees history as New York defeated the Atlanta Braves 4-2. Judge’s solo homer in the first inning was his 351st with the Yankees, matching A-Rod and behind Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, Lou Gehrig, Joe DiMaggio and Yogi Berra. Marcus Strohman gave up one run on five hits over six innings in his fourth start since returning from a knee injury. Paul Goldschmidt was 1 for 3 with an RBI, and Giancarlo Stanton was 3 for 5 with a run scored.

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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

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.

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Venus Williams speaks to the media during a news conference at the Citi Open tennis tournament Sunday, July 20, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Venus Williams is back in tennis and wishes Serena would come out of retirement to join the fun

Venus Williams is back on the tennis scene and ready to compete for the first time in more than a year but she wishes her younger sister Serena were with her at the DC Open. The tournament begins Monday in Washington. This is the first tour event for Venus Williams in more than a year. She turned 45 last month. She owns seven Grand Slam singles titles and another 14 in doubles that she won alongside Serena. Serena hasn’t played since she retired after the 2022 U.S. Open.

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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

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.

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Max Holloway celebrates after winning the lightweight title fight at UFC 318 in New Orleans, La., Saturday, July 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Ella Hall)

Max Holloway retains UFC BMF title, spoils Dustin Poirier’s retirement fight

Max Holloway said he wanted to play spoiler and he did it Saturday night in the main event. Holloway defeated Dustin Poirier in a unanimous decision to retain the UFC BMF Championship in UFC 318. The win for Holloway is the first in three fights against Poirier, who beat him in 2012 and 2019. Holloway (28-8) retained his BMF title after landing 98 more strikes (201-109) and landing 53% of his significant strikes. The loss ends a brilliant career for Poirier, who finishes his career with a 30-10 record. In the co-main event, Paulo Costa (15-4) snapped a three-match losing streak, defeating Roman Kopylov for a middleweight division win by a unanimous decision.

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Manny Pacquiao, left, fights Mario Barrios in a welterweight title boxing match Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)

Pacquiao’s comeback falls short as Barrios retains WBC welterweight title in majority draw

Manny Pacquiao lost by majority draw to Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title. One judge gave Barrios a narrow 115-113 win Saturday. Pacquiao, recently inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame, was attempting to reclaim the title at age 46 after nearly four years out of the ring. The pro-Pacquiao crowd booed the decision. Barrios, now 29-2-2, retained his title despite criticism of his performance. In the co-main event, Sebastian Fundora dominated Tim Tszyu, retaining his WBC super welterweight title after Tszyu didn’t continue past the eighth round.

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Indiana Fever's Aliyah Boston shoots before the WNBA All-Star basketball game, Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

WNBA All-Stars make statement with warmup shirts over CBA

Players wore shirts reading “Pay us what you owe us” during warmups for the All-Star game. The message follows failed negotiations on a collective bargaining agreement with the league. Players are seeking higher salaries, improved benefits and revenue sharing. Some players, including All-Stars Napheesa Collier and Angel Reese, have hinted at a potential walkout if no agreement is reached by October.

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Minnesota Lynx's Napheesa Collier, right, shoots against Las Vegas Aces' A'ja Wilson during the second half of a WNBA All-Star basketball game, Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

Napheesa Collier’s record-breaking performance leads her team to victory in WNBA All-Star Game

Napheesa Collier sets a scoring record in the WNBA All-Star Game, leading her team to victory over Team Clark. The game, filled with 4-point shots and minimal defense, broke the previous scoring record for an All-Star Game. This year’s event also highlighted ongoing collective bargaining agreement negotiations, with players wearing shirts demanding fair pay. Caitlin Clark, sidelined by injury, served as an ambassador for the weekend. The game featured unique rules like a 20-second shot clock and live substitutions. Rookies Paige Bueckers, Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen made history as the largest rookie group since 2011. Celebrities and WNBA legends attended.

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New York Yankees' Trent Grisham (12) hits a grand slam home run against the Atlanta Braves in the ninth inning of a baseball game, Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Grisham’s tiebreaking slam in 9th completes Yankees comeback against Braves

Trent Grisham hit a tiebreaking grand slam with two outs in the ninth inning and the New York Yankees rallied from five runs down to beat the Atlanta Braves 12-9 before a crowd of 42,530, the largest this season at Truist Park. Anthony Volpe homered twice and finished with four RBIs for the Yankees, including a tying shot in the eighth. Cody Bellinger went deep in the seventh to help New York stop a three-game slide. Braves closer Raisel Iglesias, who hadn’t given up a run in 15 appearances, took the loss. Luke Weaver earned the win with 1 2/3 scoreless innings in relief.

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Washington Mystics players Georgia Amoore instructs international campers at the annual Basketball without Borders camp at All-Star weekend on Saturday, July 19, 2025 in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Doug Feinberg)

WNBA All-Star Basketball Without Borders camp is opportunity for international players to be seen

Georgia Amoore went to an international basketball camp at the 2019 Final Four and was seen for one of the first times by Virginia Tech coaches. That led to a scholarship at the school where the Australian guard eventually led the Hokies their first Final Four four years later. Now the Washington Mystics rookie is an instructor at a Basketball Without Borders, which is in its third year, that’s connected to the WNBA All-Star Game this weekend.

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FILE - Denny Hamlin celebrates with the checkered flag after winning a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Dover Motor Speedway, Sunday, April 28, 2024, in Dover, Del. (AP Photo/Derik Hamilton, File)

Denny Hamlin vows 23XI Racing will go on, answers will come in December in court battle with NASCAR

NASCAR race team owner Denny Hamlin remained undeterred in the wake of another setback in court, vowing “all will be exposed” in the scheduled December trial as part of 23XI Racing’s federal suit against the auto racing series. A federal judge has denied a request from 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports to race with charters while battling NASCAR in court. This decision means their six cars will compete as open entries at Dover this weekend and Indianapolis next week. The teams argue this move risks their businesses, as charters guarantee race spots and base payouts.

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Indiana Fever's Kelsey Mitchell (0) drives past New York Liberty's Isabelle Harrison during the second half of a WNBA basketball game Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Playing the All-Star Game at home creates special feeling for Kelsey Mitchell, Indiana Fever players

Indiana Fever guard Kelsey Mitchell spent last week tamping down the All-Star excitement. First, she had to play some crucial games. She finally had a chance Friday to show how she felt about playing Saturday’s game on her home court. Her eyes opened wide, the trademark grin stretched across her face and the words started flying out of her mouth. Not all home All-Star Games are created equal. Just ask some of the players who’ve been there and done that. But for the eight-year veteran who finally made her first playoff appearance last year, this one will be special.

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This combination of photos boarding Air Force One shows President Donald Trump, left, April 29, 2025, at Joint Base Andrews, Md., and President Joe Biden, April 16, 2024, at Wilkes-Barre Scranton International Airport in Scranton, Pa.. (AP Photo)

Trump’s pace of early travel largely mirrors Biden’s, but with more sports events and golf

Moving at the “speed of Trump” is one of the White House’s favorite phrases, but when it comes to presidential travel, Donald Trump’s pace is about the same as that of his Democratic predecessor, Joe Biden. By his six-month mark in office on July 20, Trump will have made 49 trips to 14 states and seven foreign countries. That’s not far off from Biden’s pace. The Democrat made 45 trips to 17 states and three foreign countries early in his presidency during the pandemic. Trump’s second-term travel is also less prolific than his first, at least in terms of visiting different parts of the United States.

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Milwaukee Brewers starting pitcher Quinn Priester throws to the plate during the first inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Friday, July 18, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Quinn Priester dominates Dodgers as Brewers extend winning streak to 8 with 2-0 shutout

Quinn Priester outpitched Tyler Glasnow for six innings, Caleb Durbin homered and drove in both runs, and the Milwaukee Brewers beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 2-0 for their eighth straight victory. The Brewers equaled their longest winning streak of the season from May 25 to June 2. They continued their dominance over the NL West leaders, having outscored them 15-4 during a three-game sweep in Milwaukee last week. Priester allowed three hits and struck out a season-high 10 on 77 pitches. He struck out the side in the first and fifth. All-Star closer Trevor Megill worked the ninth for his 22nd save.

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Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. reacts after throwing out a runner at third base in the third inning of a baseball game against the New York Yankees, Friday, July 18, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Colin Hubbard)

Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr. stuns Yankees with incredible throw in Atlanta’s win

Ronald Acuña Jr. caught the New York Yankees off-guard with a spectacular throw to end the third inning on Friday night. The Atlanta Braves’ All-Star right fielder threw out Jorbit Vivas at third base when Vivas was trying to tag up on a deep fly to corner in right. Acuña caught the ball just in front of the warning track with his back to the infield. He spun and fired and the throw reached third base in the air just in time for third baseman Nacho Alvarez to tag a slowing Vivas, who ignored third-base coach Luis Rojas’ signal to slide. Alvarez was casual as the throw approached in an attempt to fool Vivas.

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FILE - Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani congratulates his dog Decoy after Decoy delivered the ceremonial first pitch prior to a baseball game between the Dodgers and the Baltimore Orioles, Aug. 28, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, File)

Shohei Ohtani co-writes children’s book starring his dog Decoy

Shohei Ohtani has co-written a children’s book featuring his dog, Decoy. The Los Angeles Dodgers star shared the news Thursday on Instagram, posting a photo of Decoy, a Dutch Kooikerhondje, with the book. Titled “Decoy Saves Opening Day,” the story follows Decoy as he scrambles to retrieve his lucky baseball before throwing the first pitch on opening day. The book, illustrated by Fanny Liem, will be released on February 3 by HarperCollins. Ohtani hopes Decoy’s fame will raise awareness of the rare Kooikerhondje breed, which he has promoted through events like a first pitch and a victory parade.

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FILE - Indiana Fever's Caitlin Clark watches as players warm up before a WNBA basketball game between the New York Liberty and the Fever Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II, File)

Caitlin Clark is still having an impact on WNBA All-Star Game even though she won’t play

Caitlin Clark bounced a ball, joined a team huddle and gave one of her All-Star teammate’s shots a playful thumbs down before gingerly lobbing her own half-court heave Friday. It may be the most demanding action anyone sees out of Clark this weekend in Indianapolis. Nobody envisioned the Indiana Fever’s biggest star missing the All-Star festivities with another injury. But even as Clark sits this one out, she remains the center of attention. From the 30-story, larger-than-life image covering Indianapolis’ JW Marriott Hotel to the wraps around the city’s maze of skywalks, Clarks seems every bit as in demand — maybe even more — than any other All-Star.

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Arizona Diamondbacks' Ketel Marte watches his two run double in the first at the MLB baseball All-Star game between the American League and National League, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Diamondbacks All-Star second baseman Ketel Marte placed on restricted list following burglary

Arizona Diamondbacks All-Star second baseman Ketel Marte has been placed on the restricted list after his home was burglarized during the All-Star break. Marte was not in the lineup Friday against St. Louis as he deals with what Scottsdale police called a “high-dollar residential burglary” while he and his family were in Atlanta for the All-Star game. The Diamondbacks made a flurry of moves before their first game back from the All-Star break, bringing up catcher Adrian Del Castillo and right-hander Trevor Richards from Triple-A Reno. Arizona also optioned infielder Tristan English to Reno and signed infielder Sergio Alcántara as a major league free agent. Catcher Gabriel Moreno was transferred to the 60-day injured list with a broken finger.

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

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

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

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FILE - Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal (3) dribbles against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, April 9, 2025, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri, File)

Clippers sign three-time All-Star Bradley Beal after Suns buyout

The Los Angeles Clippers have signed Bradley Beal after the Phoenix Suns bought out his contract. Beal, a 32-year-old three-time All-Star, played 53 games for the Suns last season, averaging 17 points, 3.7 assists, and 3.3 rebounds. He shot 50% from the field and 39% from three-point range. Clippers coach Tyronn Lue praised Beal’s versatility, calling him a rare talent who excels in scoring, playmaking, and improving teammates. Beal brings 13 years of NBA experience to the Clippers, adding depth and skill to their roster.

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Drivers race in a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at the Grant Park 165 , Sunday, July 6, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley)

NASCAR says no Chicago Street Race next year, but it could return in 2027

NASCAR is pressing pause on its Chicago Street Race, answering at least one major question about its schedule for next season. NASCAR raced on a street course in downtown Chicago on the first weekend in July each of the last three years. But it had a three-year contract with the city, leaving the future of the event in question. Writing to Mayor Brandon Johnson, race president Julie Giese says the plan is to explore the potential of a new event weekend with his office and other community leaders. NASCAR is replacing its Chicago stop with a street race in San Diego.

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Lawyer says lawsuit is over between ex-NFL star Shannon Sharpe and woman who accused him of rape

A lawyer says NFL Hall of Fame member Shannon Sharpe has resolved a lawsuit that accused him of sexually assaulting a woman during their relationship. No details were released. Attorney Tony Buzbee represents the woman. He says Sharpe and the woman had a consensual but “tumultuous relationship” that began in 2023. Sharpe has denied allegations of rape, calling them “false and disruptive.” There was no immediate comment Friday from Sharpe’s lawyer.

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FILE - Construction continues on a new enclosed stadium for NFL football's Tennessee Titans, March 3, 2025, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey, File)

Construction halted at new Tennessee Titans Stadium after noose found at site

Construction on a new enclosed stadium for the Tennessee Titans in Nashville, Tennessee, has been halted after a noose was found at the construction site. Metro Nashville Police spokesperson Kristin Mumford says in a Friday email that they are aware and investigating. The Tennessee Builders Alliance, a joint venture partnership on the stadium, says it suspended construction at the site after the “racist and hateful” symbol was discovered this week. A statement to news outlets says, “We are requiring additional antibias training for every person on site, and work will resume only after a site-wide stand-down focused on inclusion and respect.”

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FILE - Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow catches a ball during NFL football practice on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File)

NYC pawn shop owner pleads guilty to his role in burglary of NFL star Joe Burrow’s home and others

A Manhattan pawn shop owner has pleaded guilty to serving as a fence for luxury items stolen from wealthy people across the country, including a brazen burglary at the home of Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow. Dimitriy Nezhinskiy admitted Friday that he purchased watches, jewelry and other high-end goods to sell despite knowing they were stolen. The charge he pleaded guilty to in Brooklyn federal court carries a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison. Prosecutors said Nezhinskiy fenced the stolen goods for international burglary crews, some of which targeted homes of prominent professional athletes.

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Dr. David Altchek poses in his office filled with sports memorabilia in New York, Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)

Dr. David Altchek, Mets medical director and Tommy John surgery pioneer, dies at 68

Dr. David Altchek, a renowned orthopedic surgeon and longtime New York Mets medical director, has died at 68. Altchek told associates last year he had been diagnosed with a brain tumor. He performed more than 2,400 Tommy John surgeries during his career and was instrumental in developing the “docking procedure,” a breakthrough technique for the surgery. In addition to serving as the Mets’  medical director, he held prominent roles in sports medicine, including with the ATP Tour and U.S. Davis Cup team.

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FILE - Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (0) celebrates after a shot against the Orlando Magic during the second half of an NBA basketball game, March 5, 2023, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Kevin Kolczynski, File)

Damian Lillard returns to the Trail Blazers on a 3-year deal worth $42 million, AP source says

Damian Lillard is back where he started. Lillard signed a three-year deal worth $42 million to return to the Portland Trail Blazers, a person with knowledge of the deal told The Associated Press on Thursday. The person spoke to the AP on the condition of anonymity because the deal had not been officially announced. Lillard was the sixth pick in the 2012 NBA draft by the Trail Blazers and spent 11 seasons with Portland before he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks just before the 2023-24 season.

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Oakland Ballers' Lou Helmig cannot catch a home run hit by Rocky Mountain Vibes' Gary Lora Gonzalez during the third inning of a Pioneer League baseball game in Oakland, Calif., Thursday, July 10, 2025. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

Ballers outfielder Lou Helmig represents deep baseball history in Germany

Lou Helmig carries a deep family history with every swing, and every catch, with every sprint around the basepaths. He has carried it at every level, in every new place he plays, on whatever continent it happens to be in a given moment. The larger-than-life right fielder for the independent Oakland Ballers is a third-generation German professional player trying to leave his mark, just like his grandfather, great-uncle, and Helmig’s own dad, Martin, before him.

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FILE - Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Mike Williams cannot make a catch in the end zone during the second half of an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders, Nov. 8, 2020, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis, file)

Chargers wide receiver Mike Williams decides to retire from NFL at age 30

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Mike Williams has retired from the NFL at age 30. His agent informed the team Wednesday, just before training camp began Thursday. Williams signed a one-year deal in March but was placed on the physically unable to perform list Monday due to an undisclosed injury. Williams played eight NFL seasons, including stints with the Jets and Steelers, and had 330 career receptions and 32 touchdowns. Known for his leadership, he was a key player for the Chargers. Meanwhile, the Chargers signed tackle Ryan Nelson from the UFL and are addressing wide receiver Tre’ Harris’ holdout.

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FILE - Ohio State quarterback Will Howard (18) runs against Texas during the second half of the Cotton Bowl College Football Playoff semifinal game, Jan. 10, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez, File)

SEC coaches and players defend their dominance amid Big Ten’s recent success

The SEC Media Days this week highlighted the ongoing rivalry between the SEC and the Big Ten in college football. SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey emphasized the conference’s dominance, citing top TV viewership and NFL draft picks. Over the past decade, the SEC has won six national championships, but the last two victories — by Michigan and Ohio State — have fueled competition. Coaches and players, like Missouri’s Eli Drinkwitz, defended the SEC as the strongest conference. The rivalry continues with key matchups early this season.

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Golden State Valkyries center Temi Fagbenle (14) loses the ball against Seattle Storm forward Ezi Magbegor (13) and guard Erica Wheeler, right, during the first half of a WNBA basketball game Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

WNBA players say league’s proposal for new CBA falls short after All-Star bargaining meeting

WNBA players and league officials met Thursday before the start of the All-Star weekend festivities for discussions on a new collective bargaining agreement. All-Stars Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers and Angel Reese were among about 40 players who took part in the first face-to-face meeting featuring players since December. Players opted out of the current CBA last October and are seeking a better revenue sharing model, increased salaries, improved benefits, and a softer salary cap. The sides are far apart in preliminary discussions and agreed to another meeting this weekend.

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FILE - A Rick Ware Racing patch is displayed on the fire suit of driver Cody Ware prior to the NASCAR Cup Series 300 auto race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon, N.H., Sunday, Sept. 24, 2017. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)

Judge denies 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports’ request to race with charters

A federal judge has denied a request from 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports to race with charters while battling NASCAR in court. This decision means their six cars will compete as open entries at Dover this weekend and Indianapolis next week. The teams argue this move risks their businesses, as charters guarantee race spots and base payouts. NASCAR has assured the court it won’t sell the disputed charters before a preliminary injunction ruling. The case, set for trial in December, stems from the teams rejecting NASCAR’s charter extension offer. None of the affected drivers are locked into this year’s playoffs.

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FILE - Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) celebrates his sack during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams, File)

The Pittsburgh Steelers make star linebacker T.J. Watt the NFL’s highest-paid defender

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made star outside linebacker T.J. Watt the NFL’s highest-paid defender. A person with knowledge of the deal tells The Associated Press that Watt has agreed to a three-year pact that will average $41 million annually. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the deal had not yet been made public.  Watt, who was entering the final season of the four-year extension he signed in 2021, skipped organized team activities and mandatory minicamp to put pressure on the Steelers’ front office for a new contract.

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Manny Pacquiao speaks during a news conference Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)

Pacquiao is back, but how back is he? Saturday’s fight against Barrios will reveal all

Manny Pacquiao is stepping back into the ring Saturday night, aiming to take the WBC welterweight title from Mario Barrios. This marks Pacquiao’s first fight in nearly four years since losing to Yordenis Ugás. The 46-year-old boxing legend, with 12 world championships across eight divisions, says he’s in top condition and ready to prove himself. Barrios, a 30-year-old with a 29-2-1 record, is determined to defend his title and spoil Pacquiao’s return. Both fighters have shown mutual respect ahead of the bout but promise an intense showdown. The co-main event features Sebastian Fundora against Tim Tszyu in a rematch.

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Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert stands on the field during training camp for the NFL football team Thursday, July 17, 2025, in El Segundo, Calif. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer)

Justin Herbert surprises teammates with red-tinted contact lenses at Chargers camp

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is testing tinted contact lenses during training camp. He wore them on Thursday under sunny skies after trying them earlier in the week with rookies. Herbert says the lenses, which act like sunglasses, help reduce squinting. He previously tried a tinted visor but disliked constantly cleaning it. The contacts make his blue eyes appear red, surprising teammates in the huddle. Herbert believes he could wear them in games with a medical prescription for his sensitive eyes. He says the lenses improve his vision on the field, which could enhance his performance.

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FILE - Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice carries after a catch during warmups before an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sept. 15, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann, File)

Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice sentenced to 30 days in jail over Dallas high-speed crash

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice has been sentenced to 30 days in jail after authorities said he and another speeding driver caused a chain-reaction crash on a Dallas highway last year. Prosecutors say Rice was driving a Lamborghini Urus SUV at 119 mph when he caused the March 2024 wreck. Multiple people were injured. On Thursday, Rice pleaded guilty to felony charges, including causing serious bodily injury. As part of a plea deal, he also received five years of deferred probation and must pay $115,000 for victims’ medical expenses. In a statement, Rice apologized for the harm caused and pledged to make amends to those affected.

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President Donald Trump speaks during a ceremony to sign the "Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act," in the East Room of the White House, Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Trump will visit Scotland, where his family has golf courses, and will talk trade with Starmer

President Donald Trump plans to visit Scotland next week. The White House says Trump will be in Turnberry and Aberdeen and plans to meet with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss trade. The July 25-29 trip includes stops at Turnberry, home to a historic golf course and resort Trump purchased in 2014, and Aberdeen, where there is one Trump golf course and a second one opens in August. Trump previously said he’d meet with Starmer in Aberdeen. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt also confirmed Thursday the Republican president and first lady Melania Trump will visit the United Kingdom in September for a state visit, meeting King Charles at Windsor Castle.

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Arizona Diamondbacks' Ketel Marte watches his two run double in the first at the MLB baseball All-Star game between the American League and National League, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Diamondbacks star Ketel Marte’s home burglarized during All-Star break

Police are investigating a burglary at a home reportedly owned by Arizona Diamondbacks star Ketel Marte. The incident occurred Tuesday night while Marte was playing in the MLB All-Star game in Atlanta. Authorities describe it as a “high-dollar residential burglary” involving stolen personal items and jewelry. No one was home during the break-in. Records from the Maricopa County Assessor’s Office confirm Marte owns a property on the block. Marte contributed to the National League’s victory with a two-run double in the first inning. The investigation remains active, and no further details have been released.

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FILE - The Colorado Rockies rest on the dugout rail while trailing the Boston Red Sox in the ninth inning of a baseball game at Fenway Park, Tuesday, July 8, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)

Rock bottom? Rockies try to avoid worst mark over 162-game season as they emerge from All-Star break

The Colorado Rockies are enduring a historically dismal season, sitting at 22-74. They’re on pace for 125 losses a year after the Chicago White Sox went 41-121, which is the worst mark since baseball adopted a 162-game schedule in 1961. The slump led to the firing of manager Bud Black in May. Last weekend, the team drafted Ethan Holliday with the fourth overall pick for a glimmer of hope down the road. The Rockies haven’t won back-to-back home games this season and risk setting a record this weekend for losing the most home series in a row. Despite the struggles, attendance remains robust, averaging over 30,000 fans per game.

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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander smiles after winning the Best Athlete Men's Sports award at the ESPY Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, Wednesday, July 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Simone Biles win top honors at ESPYS

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Simone Biles have been named Best Male and Female Athletes at the ESPYS. Gilgeous-Alexander led the Oklahoma City Thunder to an NBA title last month and was also named league MVP. Biles, an 11-time Olympic medalist, won for her standout performance at the Paris Games, earning three golds and a silver. Suni Lee received the Best Comeback award after battling kidney diseases. Basketball legend Oscar Robertson was honored with the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage for his groundbreaking work in NBA labor rights. Comedian Shane Gillis hosted the event, drawing mixed reactions for his controversial monologue.

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Indiana Fever's Caitlin Clark watches during the first half of a WNBA basketball game against the New York Liberty Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Caitlin Clark sidelined again with another injury heading into All-Star weekend

The Indiana Fever might be without star guard Caitlin Clark again for a bit after she injured her groin Tuesday night late in a win over the Connecticut Sun. It will be a busy week for the league’s young star if she can play at all. She sat out the team’s 98-77 loss against New York and her status for WNBA All-Star weekend, which Indiana is hosting, is up in the air. Clark is supposed to compete in a loaded 3-point contest Friday night and is captain of one of the All-Star teams.

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Indiana Fever's Caitlin Clark (22) reacts with a possible injury beside Aliyah Boston (7) during the second half of a WNBA basketball game against the Connecticut Sun, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)

Caitlin Clark, Sabrina Ionescu and Allisha Gray headline WNBA All-Star 3-point contest

Caitlin Clark will hopefully be in a 3-point contest for the first time in her pro career as the Indiana Fever guard is set to compete Friday night in the WNBA All-Star competition. Clark injured her groin on Tuesday night in the last minute of the Fever’s game against Connecticut and it’s unknown if she’ll be able to participate this weekend in either the contest or the All-Star Game. She’ll be joined by contest record holder Sabrina Ionescu, who is back in the 3-point contest after a one-year hiatus. Ionescu last entered the contest in 2023 and set a record hitting 25 of her 27 shots in the final round, scoring 37 points. It was the most shots made in a 3-point contest in either the WNBA or NBA.

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Tennessee embraces QB battle as Florida, Mississippi State seek new heights

The Southeastern Conference’s evolving quarterback situations continued to be a focal point of SEC media days. Florida quarterback DJ Lagway went 6-1 after taking over as the starter midway through 2024, creating some buzz around the Gators heading into year four of the Billy Napier era. Mississippi State quarterback Blake Shapen is back after a shoulder injury ended his 2024 season in September, and the Bulldogs are looking to respond from a winless league campaign in year two under Jeff Lebby. Meanwhile, Tennessee has an ongoing quarterback battle with three participants, headlined by Appalachian State transfer Joey Aguilar.

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FILE - Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal (3) dribbles against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, April 9, 2025, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri, File)

Bradley Beal, 3-time All-Star, agrees to buyout with the Phoenix Suns, AP source says

Bradley Beal and the Phoenix Suns have agreed to a buyout on the final two years of his contract. That’s according to a person with knowledge of the deal who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Wednesday because the deal hasn’t been officially announced. ESPN reports that the buyout paves the way for Beal to sign a two-year, $11 million deal with the Los Angeles Clippers. Beal is expected to give back $13.9 million of the $110 million he’s owed from the Suns, which allows Phoenix more flexibility as it tries to rebuild its roster.

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FILE - Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer watches during Alabama's A-Day NCAA college football practice and autograph session, Saturday, April 12, 2025, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt, File)

Kalen DeBoer is looking to escape Nick Saban’s shadow and lead Tide back to playoffs in 2nd season

Kalen DeBoer is looking to restore Alabama as one of the nation’s top college football teams. At the same time, he’s looking to escape the shadow of Nick Saban. DeBoer is entering his second season as Alabama coach after a 9-4 finish in his 2024 debut. DeBoer said at SEC media days that his team “fell short” last season because it failed to qualify for the playoffs. He says the Crimson Tide have learned from their shortcomings and are in position to enjoy greater success in 2025. DeBoer says Alabama must “be better in the big moments” this season.

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Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese reacts after a foul call during the second half of a WNBA basketball game against the Los Angeles Sparks, Sunday, June 29, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jessie Alcheh)

Angel Reese misses Sky’s final game before All-Star break with leg injury

Angel Reese didn’t play in the Chicago Sky’s final game before the All-Star break because of a leg injury. The All-Star forward sat on the bench Wednesday as the Sky hosted the Atlanta Dream. She is set to make her second All-Star Game appearance this weekend in Indianapolis. Fellow second-year All-Star Caitlin Clark’s availability for the game in her home arena could also be in jeopardy after she sustained a groin injury Tuesday night in a victory over the Connecticut Sun in Boston. Reese had 22 points and 10 rebounds Monday for her ninth straight double-double in Chicago’s 91-78 loss to Minnesota. She leads the WNBA with 12.6 rebounds per game.

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FILE - Washington Capitals' Alex Ovechkin (8) looks on during a faceoff against the Carolina Hurricanes during the first period of an NHL hockey game in Raleigh, N.C., Wednesday, April 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Karl DeBlaker, File)

NHL releases the 2025-26 schedule, the last 82-game season before new CBA increases it to 84

The NHL has released the full 2025-26 schedule. It is the final 82-game season before the new collective bargaining agreement kicks in and increases to 84. Alex Ovechkin begins his 21st season on Oct. 8 when he and the Washington Capitals host Boston. Ovechkin is at 897 career goals after breaking Wayne Gretzky’s record and can now surpass 900. After raising their second consecutive Stanley Cup banner on opening night Oct. 7 against Chicago, the back-to-back defending champion Florida Panthers host Philadelphia two days later. The league’s 32 teams will combine to play 1,312 games between Oct. 7 and April 16 with the playoffs to run from then through much of June.

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FILE - New York Islanders' Mike Bossy, left, watches the puck about to be deflected by New York Rangers goalie Wayne Thomas during an NHL hockey game at New York's Madison Square Garden, Nov. 12, 1978. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine, File)

Wayne Thomas, ex-NHL goalie, assistant and executive dies at 77

Former NHL goaltender Wayne Thomas, who went on to have a lengthy career in hockey as a coach and an executive, has died from cancer. He was 77. A spokesperson for the San Jose Sharks confirmed the team learned of Thomas’ death Wednesday from his family. Thomas tended goal for Montreal, Toronto and the New York Rangers from 1973-80. He immediately went into coaching and spent time as an assistant with New York, Chicago, St. Louis and San Jose. He then spent nearly two decades in the Sharks’ front office from the mid-1990s through 2015.

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Pittsburgh Pirates' Adam Frazier walks back to the dugout after striking out during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins, Friday, July 11, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

Royals reacquire Adam Frazier in an All-Star break trade with the Pirates

The Kansas City Royals have reacquired veteran utility player Adam Frazier in an All-Star break trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Kansas City sent minor league infielder Cam Devanney to Pittsburgh. Frazier has played in 78 games this season split between second base, left field and right field, hitting .255 with 21 RBIs. He spent last season with KC after bouncing around the majors following his start with the Pirates. The 33-year-old has played every position except catcher and pitcher during his career since debuting in 2016. Frazier joins the Royals as they are 4 1/2 games out of the final AL wild-card spot.

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Oakmont bans former US Open champion Wyndham Clark for damaging locker

Oakmont is banning former U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark from returning to the club until he pays for damaging his locker. Golf Digest has obtained a letter that club president John Lynch has sent to Oakmont members. Clark damaged the locker during last month’s U.S. Open and a photo was leaked that went viral. Lynch says Clark won’t be allowed on the property until he pays for the damage, makes a charity donation to the club’s choice and seeks counseling. Oakmont has hosted the most U.S. Opens. The next one is in 2033. That’s when Clark’s 10-year exemption from winning runs out.

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Miami's Kyle Stowers challenge is being reviewed during eighth inning at the MLB baseball All-Star game between the American League and National League, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Cal Raleigh successful as 4 of 5 challenges reverse calls in first All-Star use of robot umpire

Seattle catcher Cal Raleigh successfully used the robot umpire to gain a strikeout for pitcher Tarik Skubal in the first inning of the All-Star Game. He changed an 0-2 pitch to a strike on San Diego’s Manny Machado. Four of five challenges of plate umpire Dan Iassogna’s calls were successful in the first All-Star use of the ABS system, which could make its regular-season debut next year. The players’ association is unsure whether the Automated Ball-Strike System is accurate enough. A decision for 2026 use likely will be considered by sport’s 11-man competition committee.

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