Sports News
Latest Sports Headlines
1 hour ago
Lamar Jackson rallies Ravens with career-best fourth quarter
BALTIMORE -- The Ravens were in a predicament Thursday night against the Cincinnati Bengals, facing a 14-point deficit in the second half with a struggling defense.
So what gave them any hope of a comeback? Lamar Jackson is playing his best football ever.
Jackson produced the best fourth quarter of his career in leading the Ravens to a 35-34 victory. In recording a perfect 158.3 passer rating in the fourth quarter, he threw for 197 yards and three touchdowns -- both personal highs in the fourth quarter -- to record a season sweep of the Bengals and save the NFL's worst pass defense once again.
It didn't matter that the Ravens defense allowed 470 yards and five touchdowns. There was always a belief that Jackson was going to will Baltimore to victory.
"He's special, but we're like the little bros right now," Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey said of the defense. "He's carrying us."
The reigning NFL Most Valuable Player had to shake off his worst...
1 hour ago
2 hours ago
Burrow, Chase light up Ravens' defense, but Bengals fall to 4-6
BALTIMORE -- It looked like Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase had pulled it off Thursday night against the Baltimore Ravens.
Throughout the prime-time matchup against their AFC North rivals, Cincinnati's star quarterback and wide receiver linked up for plays when the Bengals needed them most, including a late touchdown that put Cincinnati in position for the game winner.
But the Bengals ended up one play short in a 35-34 loss to the Ravens. A failed 2-point conversion with 38 seconds remaining squandered outstanding performances from both players.
Burrow finished with 428 yards and four touchdowns on 34-of-56 passing. Chase turned in one of the best performances of his career -- 11 catches, three touchdowns and a 264 receiving yards. The efforts, however, were not enough to keep the Bengals from losing their second and final regular-season matchup against the Ravens this season.
"They are the best duo in the league right now, and they show it every week,"...
2 hours ago
3 hours ago
Andre Jackson Jr.'s move into starting 5 helps Bucks top Jazz
MILWAUKEE -- Thanks to a change to their starting lineup and another pair of outstanding performances from Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Milwaukee Bucks ended a six-game losing streak with a 123-100 victory Thursday night over the Utah Jazz.
Milwaukee altered its starting group for the first time this season, inserting second-year wing Andre Jackson Jr. to replace Gary Trent Jr. Jackson, who turns 23 next week, had 7 points, 4 assists, 4 steals and 3 rebounds in 28 minutes.
"He brings energy," Antetokounmpo said of Jackson's presence in the starting lineup. "He plays his ass off, guards the best player. We play faster. He was incredible today. We definitely need that. We need that spark. We need to play with that energy."
Jackson's energy aided both Lillard, who finished with a game-high 34 points, and Antetokounmpo, who had 31. It marked the third time in the first eight games of the season both players have scored...
3 hours ago
4 hours ago
Victor Wembanyama says Spurs expect Gregg Popovich back soon
SAN ANTONIO -- Spurs star Victor Wembanyama said he and his teammates expect Gregg Popovich to return soon after a health issue caused the longtime coach to miss three games, including Thursday night's 118-105 win over the Portland Trail Blazers.
"We don't hear a lot from Pop," Wembanyama said after the game. "They keep us informed as much as we're allowed to know. So, I'm not worried about him. I know he's going to come back soon."
Popovich experienced an undisclosed medical episode last Saturday, about 2½ hours before the Spurs' home game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. San Antonio acting head coach Mitch Johnson said then that Popovich was "not feeling well" but would not elaborate on what happened hours earlier.
When asked Thursday night if there was any clarity about Popovich returning this season, Johnson could not provide an answer but said Popovich is "doing good."
"We've been talking," Johnson said. "I've had my hands full with...
4 hours ago
November 07
Bucs donate $10K to family of Mayfield fan killed in accident
TAMPA, Fla. -- The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have donated $10,000 to the family involved in a car accident on their way to the Bucs' Nov. 4 "Monday Night Football" game at the Kansas City Chiefs. The accident killed Connor Barba, 18, of Norman, Oklahoma, and seriously injured his mother, Megan Barnett.
Barnett surprised her son with tickets ahead of his birthday so he could see his favorite player, Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield, who said through a Bucs spokesperson that he and his wife Emily plan to reach out to the family.
"My thoughts and prayers go out to Megan and her family as they deal with this heartbreaking loss," Mayfield said in a statement. "I am honored and humbled knowing that Connor was such a big fan. I would have loved to have met him. As a new parent, this really hits home for me. I realize there are no words that can provide true comfort at a time such as this, but I hope that Megan makes a full recovery and that she draws strength from the...
November 07
November 07
49ers' Christian McCaffrey poised for season debut vs. Bucs
SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- After observing Christian McCaffrey participating in the San Francisco 49ers' most strenuous practice of the week, coach Kyle Shanahan said he has seen enough to believe that the star running back will make his season debut Sunday.
Speaking to KNBR radio in San Francisco on Thursday, Shanahan said McCaffrey has done well enough in practice this week to return against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
"He's been awesome these last two days," Shanahan said. "You never know [about] a setback or anything, but these two days have been great, and I expect to see him out there."
McCaffrey has been on injured reserve since Sept. 14 because of bilateral Achilles tendinitis that followed a calf injury that began to bother him in early August. McCaffrey traveled to Germany to meet with a specialist while the 49ers were in Los Angeles to play the Rams on Sept. 22.
Before last week's bye, Shanahan said McCaffrey would stick around the...
November 07
November 07
Bronny James assigned to Lakers' G League affiliate
The Los Angeles Lakers have assigned rookie Bronny James to their G League affiliate, South Bay, and sources told ESPN that he is expected to debut for the team Saturday against Salt Lake City.
James will be on the Lakers' roster for Friday's game against the Philadelphia 76ers, then will rejoin South Bay, according to sources.
The organization's current plan is for James to play in only G League home games as he shuttles between the Lakers and South Bay, sources said.
Lakers coach JJ Redick said last month that the "plan for Bronny to move between the Lakers and South Bay has always been the plan since day one."
As James and his representative, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, discussed development throughout his pre-draft process with NBA teams, sources told ESPN that the concept of G League play was welcomed. Those sources said Paul advocated for a standard contract -- not a two-way deal -- before the draft while making it clear he and James were...
November 07
November 07
Chelsea set Conference League record with 8-0 rout of FC Noah
Chelsea set a UEFA Conference League record with an emphatic 8-0 win over Armenian side FC Noah at Stamford Bridge on Thursday.
João Félix and Christopher Nkunku each scored twice for the Premier League club, who were six goals to the good by half-time. Tosin Adarabioyo, Marc Guiu, Axel Disasi and Mykhailo Mudryk scored the other goals as Chelsea recorded the biggest win in the competition's history.
The previous largest margin of victory in the Conference League, which began in 2021, was six goals.
The result also equals the second-biggest win in Chelsea's history. The club's largest victory remains a 13-0 triumph over Luxembourgian side Jeunesse Hautcharage in 1971.
Chelsea sit top of the Conference League standings during the league phase with a maximum nine points from three games.
"The players once again showed how professional and serious they are," Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca told reporters.
"It's easy to sleep...
November 07
November 07
Cowboys: Confidence is still there with QB Cooper Rush
FRISCO, Texas -- Once again, the Dallas Cowboys turn their hopes to Cooper Rush.
In 2022, Dak Prescott suffered a broken right thumb in a dispiriting opening day loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and all Rush did was help keep the Cowboys' season afloat, going 4-1 as the starter.
This time, Prescott is out for an extended period of time because of a partial avulsion of his right hamstring, but now Rush is needed to turn around a season that has been nothing short of a major disappointment with a 3-5 record, beginning Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles at AT&T Stadium.
"I mean we're just trying to beat Philly." Rush said. "That's kind of our approach this week. Got to take them one at a time. It's a cliché but it works. And so that's kind of the goal and you're really just taking it practice by practice, game by game and we'll see what happens."
In six starts, Rush has seven touchdown passes and four interceptions. For his career, he...
November 07
November 07
NCAA makes Canadian Hockey League players eligible for Div. I
The NCAA Division I council voted Thursday to make Canadian Hockey League players eligible for NCAA Division I hockey in 2025, in a decision that could reshape the landscape of both college and major junior hockey.
The council ruled players can compete in the CHL -- comprising the Ontario Hockey League, Western Hockey League and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League -- without jeopardizing their NCAA Division I hockey eligibility, provided they aren't "paid more than actual and necessary expenses as part of that participation."
The effective date of the rule change is Aug. 1, 2025. The new eligibility for CHL players does not apply to NCAA Division III; CHL players are still ineligible for NCAA Division III hockey.
The NCAA had previously deemed anyone who played in the CHL ineligible because there are players who have signed professional contracts with NHL teams playing in those leagues. CHL players are also paid a monthly stipend that's capped at $250.
NCAA Bylaw 12.2.3.2...
November 07
November 07
Bronny James assigned to Lakers' G League affiliate, sources say
The Los Angeles Lakers have assigned rookie Bronny James to their G League affiliate, South Bay, where he is expected to debut Saturday against Salt Lake City, sources told ESPN.
James will be on the Lakers' roster for Friday's game against the Philadelphia 76ers, then will rejoin South Bay, according to sources.
The organization's current plan is for James to play in only G League home games as he shuttles between the Lakers and South Bay, sources said.
Lakers coach JJ Redick said last month that the "plan for Bronny to move between the Lakers and South Bay has always been the plan since day one."
As James and his representative, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, discussed development throughout his pre-draft process with NBA teams, sources told ESPN that the concept of G League play was welcomed. Those sources said Paul advocated for a standard contract -- not a two-way deal -- before the draft while making it clear he and James were fully open to...
November 07
November 07
Cowboys: 'Confidence is still there' with QB Cooper Rush
FRISCO, Texas -- Once again, the Dallas Cowboys turn their hopes to Cooper Rush.
In 2022, Dak Prescott suffered a broken right thumb in a dispiriting opening-day loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and all Cooper did was help keep the Cowboys' season afloat, going 4-1 as the starter.
This time, Prescott is out for an extended period of time because of a partial avulsion of his right hamstring, but now Cooper is needed to turn around a season that has been nothing short of a major disappointment with a 3-5 record, beginning Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles at AT&T Stadium.
"I mean we're just trying to beat Philly." Rush said. "That's kind of our approach this week. Gotta take them one at a time. It's a cliché but it works. And so that's kind of the goal and you're really just taking it practice by practice, game by game and we'll see what happens."
In six starts, Rush has seven touchdown passes and four interceptions. For his career, he...
November 07
November 07
Clayton Kershaw vows to 'crush' rehab after foot, knee surgeries
Surefire Hall of Fame pitcher Clayton Kershaw confirmed he underwent foot and knee surgeries on Thursday and will begin rehabilitation with the intention of returning for an 18th season in 2025.
The surgery to his left foot was performed by Dr. Kenneth Jung, while noted surgeon Dr. Neal ElAttrache repaired the meniscus in his left knee.
"Thank you Dr ElAttrache and Dr Jung for fixing them! Planning to crush some rehab and be good as can be come next year," Kershaw posted to Instagram on Thursday. "Thanks for all the prayers and support! World Series champs!"
Kershaw, 36, was limited to seven games for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2024 following left shoulder surgery in the offseason.
He made his season debut July 25 and pitched 30 innings before reporting damage to his toe, which turned out to be a ruptured plantar plate and arthritis in his left foot.
The three-time NL Cy Young Award winner and 2014 NL MVP didn't pitch in the postseason. He has been a mainstay in...
November 07
November 07
Ravens activate RB Keaton Mitchell, waive OLB Yannick Ngakoue
BALTIMORE -- The Ravens, who boast the NFL's No. 1 offense, are adding an explosive playmaker for Thursday night's game against the Bengals.
Running back Keaton Mitchell was activated off the physically unable to perform list Thursday, the team announced. Mitchell, who was a full participant in practice all week, has not played since he suffered a full tear of the ACL in his left knee in December 2023.
Baltimore opened up a roster spot Thursday when it waived outside linebacker Yannick Ngakoue. In five games this season, Ngakoue has recorded 1.5 sacks and four quarterback hits.
The Ravens had long expected Mitchell to return sometime in November. As an undrafted rookie last season, Mitchell provided a jolt for the Baltimore rushing attack, averaging 8.4 yards on 47 carries. He totaled 396 rushing yards in eight games, scoring touchdown runs of 39 and 40 yards.
On Monday, Ravens coach John Harbaugh said the team would activate Mitchell "when he's...
November 07
November 07
Flyers rookie Matvei Michkov to be healthy scratch vs. Lightning
Philadelphia Flyers star rookie Matvei Michkov will be a healthy scratch for the first time, missing Thursday's game at the Tampa Bay Lightning, coach John Tortorella said.
The 19-year-old Michkov is second on the Flyers with 10 points (4 goals, 6 assists) in 13 games, skating to a minus-8. The seventh overall pick in 2023, He is among the favorites to win the Calder Trophy as NHL rookie of the year after leaving his Russian team earlier this year.
During his 23 years as an NHL coach, Tortorella has been infamous for benching top offensive players as a message-sending tactic. He said that Michkov sitting out was part of the process in growing the rookie winger's game.
"With young guys, they can watch games too as far as development," Tortorella said. "It's trying to help him."
Michkov won NHL rookie of the month for October with 9 points in 11 games, but that was frontloaded as he has just one assist in his last five games and has less than 14 minutes of ice time...
November 07
November 07
Johntay Cook II leaves Texas football program
Texas wide receiver Johntay Cook II, a once highly touted recruit, is no longer with the program.
Texas coach Steve Sarkisian confirmed Cook is moving on during a video conference Thursday, calling it a mutual decision.
"We have nothing but respect for he and his family," Sarkisian said. "We wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors."
Cook was the No. 26 overall player in the ESPN 300 for 2023.
The sophomore from DeSoto, Texas, had eight catches for 137 yards and two touchdowns this season for the Longhorns, who debuted at No. 5 in the initial College Football Playoff rankings.
The 6-foot, 185-pound Cook ranked sixth among Longhorns wide receivers in targets this season while playing behind starters Isaiah Bond, Matthew Golden and DeAndre Moore Jr. and has caught just one pass since Texas entered SEC play.
Underclassmen players cannot enter the NCAA transfer portal until Dec. 9.
November 07
November 07
San Diego makes Byars NWSL's 1st NCAA signing since end of draft
San Diego Wave FC announced Thursday that the club has signed University of Texas forward Trinity Byars, making Byars the first active NCAA athlete to sign with an NWSL team since the league's recent elimination of the draft.
Byars, a senior at the University of Texas, signed with San Diego Wave through the 2026 season with a mutual option for 2027. The transaction was made before the Oct. 10 roster freeze.
The NWSL and NWSL Players Association ratified a new collective bargaining agreement this summer that eliminated all forms of player drafts and granted players full free agency, meaning this offseason marks the first in the league's history that college and youth players are free to sign directly with teams of their choice.
In a shift toward competing with global leagues, the NWSL became the first U.S. league to voluntarily remove the draft mechanism.
"The draft is an antiquated model that treats people as property to be bought and sold," the NWSLPA said in...
November 07
November 07
Sources: Injured 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey expected to miss weeks
Philadelphia 76ers All-Star Tyrese Maxey is expected to miss a couple of weeks because of a right hamstring injury, sources told ESPN on Thursday.
A full evaluation is coming later Thursday, but the team is bracing for Maxey's absence.
Maxey has typically wanted to play through every injury over the course of his career -- particularly now as the team deals with ailments to All-Stars Joel Embiid and Paul George -- but the Sixers will take a cautious approach to his new soft tissue injury.
However, Maxey exited Wednesday's loss against the LA Clippers with the injury. He had 12 points in 32 minutes.
Maxey has been a bright spot for the Sixers, averaging 27.6 points per game. He has been playing a lot -- leading the NBA in minutes per game (39.7) and miles traveled per game (3.1) this season. Only Luka Doncic has hoisted more shots this season.
But after Wednesday night's loss to the Clippers, Philadelphia is only 1-6 and is tied with the...
November 07
November 07
Sources: Ravens' Keaton Mitchell set to return to active roster
BALTIMORE -- The Ravens, who boast the NFL's No. 1 offense, are expected to add an explosive playmaker for Thursday night's game against the Bengals.
Running back Keaton Mitchell is expected to be activated off the physically unable to perform list on Thursday barring any unforeseen developments, sources told ESPN's Jeremy Fowler on Thursday. Mitchell, who was a full participant in practice all week, has not played since he suffered a full tear of the ACL in his left knee in December 2023.
Baltimore opened up a roster spot Thursday when it waived defensive end Yannick Ngakoue, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter. In five games this season, Ngakoue has recorded 1.5 sacks and four quarterback hits.
The Ravens had long expected Mitchell to return sometime in November. As an undrafted rookie last season, Mitchell provided a jolt to the Baltimore rushing attack, averaging 8.4 yards on 47 carries. He totaled 396 rushing yards in eight games, scoring...
November 07
November 07
Sources: Injured 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey might miss weeks
Philadelphia 76ers All-Star Tyrese Maxey is expected to miss a couple of weeks because of a right hamstring injury, sources told ESPN on Thursday.
A full evaluation is coming later Thursday, but the team is bracing for Maxey's absence.
Maxey has typically wanted to play through every injury over the course of his career -- particularly now as the team deals with ailments to All-Stars Joel Embiid and Paul George -- but the Sixers will take a cautious approach to his new soft tissue injury.
However, Maxey exited Wednesday's loss against the LA Clippers with the injury. He had 12 points in 32 minutes.
Maxey has been a bright spot for the Sixers, averaging 27.6 points per game. He has been playing a lot -- leading the NBA in minutes per game (39.7) and miles traveled per game (3.1) this season. Only Luka Doncic has hoisted more shots this season.
But after Wednesday night's loss to the Clippers, Philadelphia is only 1-6 and is tied with the...
November 07
November 07
Sources: Injured 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey may miss weeks
Philadelphia 76ers All-Star Tyrese Maxey is expected to miss a couple of weeks because of a right hamstring injury, sources told ESPN on Thursday.
A full evaluation coming later Thursday but the team is bracing for Maxey's absence. The Sixers will take a careful approach to the injury.
Maxey has been battling soreness in his hamstring for a period of time, wanting to play through the injury and keep the team afloat while All-Stars Joel Embiid and Paul George were sidelined, sources said.
But Maxey exited Wednesday's loss against the LA Clippers due to the injury. He had 12 points in 32 minutes.
Maxey has been a bright spot for the Sixers, averaging 27.6 points per game. He has been a workhorse -- leading the NBA in minutes per game this season (39.7) and miles traveled per game (3.1). Only Luka Doncic has hoisted more shots this season.
But after Wednesday night's loss to the Clippers, Philadelphia is only 1-6 and tied with the Bucks for the worst...
November 07
November 07
Billy Napier to continue coaching Florida football, AD says
Billy Napier will continue to coach Florida, according to athletic director Scott Stricklin, who put to rest rampant speculation about the embattled coach's future with the Gators.
In a letter Thursday, Stricklin stressed the need for a "disciplined, stable approach" and asked Florida fans to "continue standing behind Billy and his dedicated team while we work together to build a championship program."
Napier, in his third season at Florida, is 15-18 with the Gators. After a 41-17 season-opening loss to Miami, he faced increased scrutiny over his job performance -- scrutiny that mounted after a 33-20 loss to Texas A&M two weeks later.
Stricklin, however, has been unwavering in his support of Napier, who has repeatedly said he needs time to get the Gator program headed in the right direction.
Back-to-back wins over Mississippi State and UCF helped quell fan discontent, but performances in close losses to No. 7 Tennessee and No. 3 ...
November 07
November 07
Johntay Cook II leaves Texas football program, sources confirm
Texas wide receiver Johntay Cook II is no longer with the program, sources confirmed to ESPN's Pete Thamel.
Cook, a highly touted recruit from DeSoto, Texas, was the No. 26 overall player in the ESPN 300 for 2023.
The sophomore had eight catches for 137 yards and two touchdowns this season for the Longhorns, who debuted at No. 5 in the initial College Football Playoff rankings.
The 6-foot, 185-pound Cook ranked sixth among Longhorns wide receivers in targets this season while playing behind starters Isaiah Bond, Matthew Golden and DeAndre Moore Jr. and has caught just one pass since Texas entered SEC play.
Underclassmen players cannot enter the NCAA transfer portal until Dec. 9.
Cook's departure was first reported by Inside Texas.
November 07
November 07
Panthers sign RB Chuba Hubbard to four-year extension
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Carolina Panthers on Thursday rewarded running back Chuba Hubbard with a four-year contract extension that will run through 2028.
The deal, according to a league source, is worth $33 million with a maximum value of $37.2 million and $15 million in new fully guaranteed dollars.
Hubbard said this moment is what he's been working for his entire life.
"Definitely lifts a burden off me a little bit,'' Hubbard said. ''I've always wanted to take care of my family for life. ... At the end of the day, I want to be great. I want to be a Panther for life.''
The move is part of general manager Dan Morgan's plan to keep core players as he rebuilds a roster that has seen the organization go through six straight losing seasons.
The deal was announced less than 24 hours after the Panthers activated second-round pick Jonathon Brooks to the 53-man roster.
There was speculation after the draft that the former Texas running back would replace Hubbard...
November 07
November 07
UConn, Louisville to meet in 1st women's basketball edition of Armed Forces Classic
UConn and Louisville will tip off the 2025-26 season at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, appearing in the first-ever women's college basketball matchup of the Armed Forces Classic.
The game, which was announced Thursday, will take place Nov. 4, 2025, and air on ESPN.
"We want to do as much as we possibly can, both personally and team-wise, to support our armed forces," UConn coach Geno Auriemma said in a statement. "I'm glad we're getting the opportunity to go overseas and have many of our military members see us play in person. I know it'll be an experience of a lifetime for everyone in our program."
"We are extremely thankful to be selected for the 2025 Armed Forces Classic," Louisville coach Jeff Walz said in a statement. "It will be an incredible experience for our players and staff to play in front of some of our nation's heroes overseas. We look forward to the opportunity to showcase women's basketball on an international stage."
Previous iterations of the Armed...
November 07
November 07
UConn unveils title banner then opens with rout of Sacred Heart
Alex Karaban had 20 points, 7 assists, 7 blocks and 6 rebounds as No. 3 UConn opened its season with a 92-56 win over Sacred Heart on Wednesday night.
Liam McNeeley added 18 points and 10 rebounds for the Huskies, who are seeking their third consecutive NCAA championship. Solo Ball scored 16.
Tarris Reed Jr. finished with 15 points and 11 rebounds off the bench as Connecticut outrebounded Sacred Heart 47-25.
Huskies coach Dan Hurley raved about Karaban's performance after the game.
"That's what great players, high-level players, guys that are ready for the season to start [do]," he said. "Alex played like an All-American. He played like a Big East player of the year type. ... He kept us organized. In games like this, that's what you're supposed to do."
Amiri Stewart had 13 points and Bryce Johnson scored 10 for the Pioneers (0-2).
Tanner Thomas, who scored 22 points in Sacred Heart's season-opening loss to Temple, had only six against UConn...
November 07
November 07
Sixers' George booed in L.A. return, calls reaction 'stupid'
INGLEWOOD, Calif. -- In his first game against the LA Clippers at Intuit Dome, Paul George received a video tribute but also heard plenty of boos all night from The Wall at the new arena.
Before an announced crowd of 15,627, George made 7 of 9 shots and had 18 points, 7 rebounds and 3 steals, but his old team routed the Philadelphia 76ers 110-98.
George said he appreciated the video tribute and called the Clippers franchise "first class." He said his return drew a fair and split reaction, but he did not understand or care for the boos after helping the Clippers reach their only Western Conference finals appearance in 2021.
"It is stupid," George said when asked if he was surprised to hear jeers after playing five seasons in L.A. "I mean, I was a free agent, you know what I mean? It wasn't something that I demanded a trade or went against the team here. I was a free agent. The team presented something that was team friendly, and I did what was best for me in...
November 07
November 07
Ja Morant after Grizzlies take out Lakers: 'I don't like them'
Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant had a little extra motivation for Wednesday night's game against the Los Angeles Lakers, and he made it clear why.
"I don't like them," Morant said after scoring 20 points in a 131-114 win at the FedExForum. "They knocked me out of the playoffs. And then last year we had a game, and they came here and popped it on our home floor when I was in street clothes. I wasn't tonight."
Morant played just 24 minutes, leaving in the third quarter because of a right hamstring injury. The Grizzlies did not have an update after the game.
Wednesday's meeting was the first between the two teams since the penultimate game of the 2023-24 regular season, when James punctuated a 37-point performance with a breakaway dunk in the closing seconds of a 123-120 win in Memphis. Morant missed that game after suffering a season-ending shoulder injury in January. The previous year, the Lakers upset the Grizzlies in the first round of the playoffs, knocking them...
November 07
November 07
Warriors fray Celtics to reach 7-1 ahead of Cavs showdown
BOSTON -- At Golden State media day in September, superstar guard Stephen Curry gave a mild declaration of intent for this season when he said his Warriors are "in a position where we can be a relevant team early and give ourselves a chance to compete.
"Then assess where we are."
Just weeks after Curry uttered those remarks, he and the Warriors improved to 7-1 on the season, moving into a three-way tie with the Oklahoma City Thunder and Phoenix Suns for the best record in the Western Conference thanks to a thrilling 118-112 victory over the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on Wednesday night.
Despite a victory over the defending champions -- one that saw the Warriors end the night with the NBA's third-best offense, second-best defense and best net rating (plus-15.5 points per 100 possessions) -- Curry said he wasn't ready to give Golden State too much credit.
"We haven't done anything yet," Curry, who finished with 27 points, 7 rebounds,...
November 07
November 07
Ryan Kalkbrenner wows with 49 in opening win for Creighton
Big East preseason player of the year Ryan Kalkbrenner scored a career-high 49 points, and 15th-ranked Creighton needed just about every one of them in a season-opening 99-86 win over UT-Rio Grande Valley on Wednesday night.
The 7-foot-1 Kalkbrenner, a fifth-year center, was 20-of-22 from the field, including 2-for-2 on 3-pointers, and he made 7 of 8 free throws. He also grabbed 11 rebounds and blocked three shots.
"We kind of went into the game with a plan to establish me in the post and we went with that," he said. "I kept working and wasn't really thinking about what happened the previous play. I was just trying to make the next one."
The eye-opening stat line put him at or toward the top of a number of records, including:
• The fifth-most points in a game in Big East history
• The second-most points in Creighton history behind Bob Portman's 51 against UW-Milwaukee in 1967
• The second-most points by a player in a season opener in the past 25 years...
November 07
November 07
Redick praises LeBron, rips others' lack of effort in Lakers' loss
MEMPHIS -- After the Grizzlies' 131-114 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday, Memphis' Desmond Bane crashed teammate Scotty Pippen Jr.'s on-court interview to praise him for stealing the ball from LeBron James, as Pippen closed the game out at point after Ja Morant exited with a right hamstring injury.
"See the way he snatched that ball from that old man over there?" Bane said while grabbing Pippen by the shoulders.
Over in losing locker room, Lakers coach JJ Redick used that "old man" as an example of how the rest of L.A.'s roster should play.
"I think LeBron was fantastic tonight," Redick said after James scored a season-high 39 points on 15-for-24 shooting with the Lakers missing two starters in Anthony Davis (left heel contusion) and Rui Hachimura (illness). "Biggest thing that stood out. ... He played hard. Almost 40 years old and played the hardest on our team. It says a lot about him."
And...
November 07
November 06
UConn unveils title banner, then opens with rout of Sacred Heart
STORRS, Conn. -- Alex Karaban had 20 points, 7 assists, 7 blocks and 6 rebounds as No. 3 UConn opened its season with a 92-56 win over Sacred Heart on Wednesday night.
Liam McNeeley added 18 points and 10 rebounds for the Huskies, who are seeking their third consecutive NCAA championship. Solo Ball scored 16.
Tarris Reed Jr. finished with 15 points and 11 rebounds off the bench as Connecticut outrebounded Sacred Heart 47-25.
Huskies coach Dan Hurley raved about Karaban's performance after the game.
"That's what great players, high-level players, guys that are ready for the season to start [do]," he said. "Alex played like an All-American. He played like a Big East player of the year type. ... He kept us organized. In games like this, that's what you're supposed to do."
Amiri Stewart had 13 points and Bryce Johnson scored 10 for the Pioneers (0-2).
Tanner Thomas, who scored 22 points in Sacred Heart's season-opening loss to Temple, had...
November 06
November 06
Dodgers' Betts likely to play second base or shortstop in '25
SAN ANTONIO -- Eight-time All-Star Mookie Betts is likely to move back to the infield, manning second base or shortstop for the World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers in 2025, general manager Brandon Gomes said Wednesday.
"It could be second, it could be short. We don't really know yet," Gomes said from the annual GM meetings. "We need to continue to have those conversations. But I think it's much more like, 'Hey, Mookie's looking to get back in the infield' than anything else.
"I know the toll on the body is less in the infield for him. So you can make arguments on both sides of it. But the beauty of Mookie is it's the most selfless superstar we've ever been around. And that permeates through the team."
Betts, 32, spent the first 72 games of the 2024 season as the Dodgers' shortstop after splitting time between second base and right field the previous season. With an acute need for outfield production this season, Los Angeles moved Betts back to right when he...
November 06
November 06
Woman wants charges against Georgia's Colbie Young dismissed
The woman involved in an altercation that led to the arrest and suspension of Georgia wide receiver Colbie Young last month has retracted her statement to police and requested that all criminal charges against him be dropped, according to an affidavit provided to ESPN on Wednesday by Young's attorney.
Young was arrested on Oct. 8 on misdemeanor charges of battery and assault of an unborn child, according to Athens-Clarke County Jail records.
According to an Athens-Clarke County Police incident report obtained by ESPN, a 20-year-old woman, who described herself as Young's ex-girlfriend, told police that she went to his apartment to discuss their relationship.
When the conversation became heated after she discovered he was on the phone with another woman, the complainant said Young "grabbed her left arm near her biceps and triceps and physically pulled her out of his room." The woman said Young was "using derogatory terms and being demeaning of her." She said...
November 06
November 06
Bruce Arena eyes new challenge with hiring as San Jose coach, GM
The San Jose Earthquakes signed Bruce Arena to be the team's sporting director and manager, the former LA Galaxy and United States coach told ESPN on Wednesday.
Arena's dual role is similar to his previous stops with the Galaxy and New England Revolution, with general manager Chris Leitch retaining his position but now reporting to Arena, a club source said. It's still to be determined what staff members will be retained.
An official announcement was expected Thursday morning.
"I think it's an interesting job. It's certainly going to be challenging," Arena told ESPN. He added that he was impressed by the proposed level of commitment from owner John Fisher, as well as the rest of the club's front office staff.
"They were very impressive and they're committed to making this club better," Arena said. "I think there's potential there to develop the club into a team that can certainly be better than they've demonstrated over the last couple of...
November 06
November 06
Sources: Cowboys' Prescott likely out longer than 4 weeks
FRISCO, Texas -- Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott is dealing with a partial avulsion of his right hamstring, which means part of the tendon has pulled away from the bone, a source confirmed Wednesday.
Prescott has not yet been put on injured reserve. If he is put on IR, he would sit out a minimum of four games, which would keep him out until at least Dec. 9 against the visiting Cincinnati Bengals should such a move be made this week. But two sources said Prescott probably would need a longer recovery period than four weeks.
NFL Network first reported the nature of Prescott's injury.
Prescott was hurt after a 5-yard scramble late in the third quarter of Sunday's loss at the Atlanta Falcons. On the next play, cameras caught him grimacing as he threw a wobbling 10-yard pass to Jalen Brooks. After the game, he said he had not had that feeling before.
"I felt it when I was getting up from the run. I can't even say that I felt it...
November 06
November 06
Sixers' Paul George has no hard feelings toward Clippers' brass
LOS ANGELES -- As Paul George faces his old team in Los Angeles for the first time on Wednesday night, the Philadelphia 76ers star said he has no hard feelings and reflected on how good his relationship was with Steve Ballmer and Clippers management.
But that is also why, George said, it was so surprising that he wasn't able to remain in a Clippers uniform when contract negotiations with the team didn't go as planned, resulting in the nine-time All-Star signing a four-year, $212 million contract in free agency with the Sixers.
"I think it got kind of misconstrued or [the] narrative kind of wasn't written correctly with the relationship with Lawrence [Frank], the relationship with Steve Ballmer," George said before the Sixers had their morning shootaround at UCLA. "I mean, they were awesome the whole time I was here.
"Kind of the reason why it was such a shocking decision how it played out at the end. But they were awesome. My time here, I think that was...
November 06
November 06
Lakers' Anthony Davis, Rui Hachimura miss game vs. Grizzlies
MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- Los Angeles Lakers star big man Anthony Davis was ruled out of Wednesday night's game against the Memphis Grizzlies because of a left heel contusion.
Davis tested out the injury during a pregame workout and determined he was unable to play.
Lakers coach JJ Redick said Davis has not undergone imaging on the foot after aggravating it late in the team's loss to the Detroit Pistons on Monday.
"From my understanding, it is something that off and on has bothered him a little bit throughout the summer and so far this season," Redick said. "We'll obviously miss him a lot."
L.A., 1-3 on its current road trip, returns home to host the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday. Redick said Davis could be available for that game.
"I think for all of us, we want to take a long-term view on all of our players' health for an 82-game season," Redick said. "I just spoke with him before coming and talking to you guys. He was very positive about how it...
November 06
November 06
Aussie breakdancer 'Raygun' to stop competing after backlash
MELBOURNE, Australia -- Breakdancer Rachael "Raygun" Gunn's signature kangaroo bounce will not be seen on a competitive stage again after the Australian declared she could not bring herself to battle following the backlash over her Paris Olympic performance.
Gunn, a university lecturer, became an overnight sensation after losing all three of her round-robin battles by a combined score of 54-0 when breaking made its Olympic debut at the Place de la Concorde.
The 37-year-old was mocked online and in the mainstream media for everything from her moves to her green official team uniform.
Gunn told Sydney radio she was still breaking but not competing.
"I'm not going to compete anymore, no," Gunn told 2DayFM. "I was going to keep competing, for sure, but that seems really difficult for me to do now to approach a battle. Yeah, I mean I still dance, and I still break. But, you know, that's like in my living room with my partner. It's been really upsetting. I just didn't have any control...
November 06
November 06
SMU gains commitment from Cole Leinart, son of Matt
California high school quarterback prospect Cole Leinart, the son of former USC star and Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinart, committed to SMU on Wednesday.
Leinart, a 6-foot-3 right-hander, is a junior at California's Redondo Union High School. Not currently rated by ESPN, he held several Power 4 offers and picked the Mustangs over Colorado, Arizona and Utah to become the second member of coach Rhett Lashlee's 2026 class.
"The culture they're building at SMU -- I just want to be a part of it," Leinart told ESPN. "I love the coaching staff. They're literally like family now. I just want to be part of what they have there."
Leinart's commitment landed Wednesday, nearly 19 years since his father closed a legendary playing career at USC.
Matt Leinart was a three-time All-American with the Trojans from 2001 to 2005, carrying a record of 37-2 across three seasons as a starter during which USC won back-to-back national titles (2003 and 2004). Leinart set...
November 06
November 06
Lions' Brian Branch apologizes for flipping off Green Bay crowd
ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- As Brian Branch prepared to address reporters inside the Detroit Lions' locker room after Wednesday's walk-through practice, one of his teammates shouted, "throw them up, BB," while passing by.
But Branch, the second-year Lions defensive back, didn't see his recent actions as a laughing matter.
He was ejected during Detroit's 24-14 win Sunday versus Green Bay after delivering a late hit on Packers receiver Bo Melton at 6:18 in the second quarter with the Lions leading 7-3 at Lambeau Field. Then before exiting the field, Branch flipped off the crowd in apparent frustration and was flagged for another unsportsmanlike conduct penalty.
Branch apologized for flipping double birds to the Green Bay crowd and said he agreed with the referee's call.
"That's not something I wanted to show or want people to notice me as that," Branch said. "That was just the heat of the moment for me, and I apologize to everyone who seen that and that won't...
November 06
November 06
Panthers' Bryce Young to start at QB against Giants in Germany
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Carolina Panthers will start quarterback Bryce Young in Sunday's game against the New York Giants in Munich.
Coach Dave Canales announced Wednesday that Young will get his third straight start in the 9:30 a.m. ET game at Allianz Arena.
"This is about the progress from one week to the next," Canales said of Young, who engineered his first NFL game-winning touchdown drive late in Sunday's 23-22 win against the New Orleans Saints. "I talk about finishing all the time. That's everything. Finish plays, practice, quarters, halves. Finish games.
"He did a fantastic job of finishing that game the right way, finding a way to win and really battling that way."
General manager Dan Morgan liked what he saw from Young on Sunday, too. He "never opened the door" on discussions to move the top pick of the 2023 draft before Tuesday's trade deadline, despite getting calls, because "I didn't want to trade Bryce."
But Morgan stopped...
November 06
November 06
Juan Soto will take his time in free agency, Scott Boras says
SAN ANTONIO -- Juan Soto will take his time surveying the free agent market before signing with a team, according to his agent Scott Boras.
Speaking at the general manager's meetings Wednesday, Boras indicated that Soto desires a "thorough" vetting before making a decision.
"Due to the volume of interest and Juan's desire to hear [from teams], I can't put a timeframe on it, but it's going to be a very thorough process for him," Boras said. "He wants to meet people personally. He wants to talk with them. He wants to hear from them."
That includes ownership, even for the New York Yankees, for whom he played in 2024 and hit 41 home runs with a league-leading 128 runs scored. Soto helped New York to a World Series appearance, but that doesn't necessarily give the Yankees a leg up on the competition to sign him.
"He wants ownership that's going to support that they are going win annually," Boras said. "Owners want to meet with Juan and sit down and talk with him about...
November 06
November 06
Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes not limited, eager to test sore ankle
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Patrick Mahomes said he was eager to test his injured ankle as the Kansas City Chiefs began preparations on Wednesday for Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos at Arrowhead Stadium.
"When you have a little bit of a roll, it's a little bit sore,'' Mahomes said. "But I'm able to move around and look forward to getting out to practice and seeing how I can push it as the week goes on.''
Coach Andy Reid said the Chiefs wouldn't put limitations on Mahomes at practice.
Mahomes initially injured the ankle in a Week 8 victory against the Las Vegas Raiders. He aggravated the injury in Monday night's win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers when he abruptly pulled up from what started as a scramble to throw a touchdown pass to running back Samaje Perine.
Mahomes was helped from the ground after the play and examined briefly on the sideline before returning to the game on the Chiefs' next possession without missing a...
November 06
November 06
Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes not limited, eager to test 'sore' ankle
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Patrick Mahomes said he was eager to test his injured ankle as the Kansas City Chiefs began preparations on Wednesday for Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos at Arrowhead Stadium.
"When you have a little bit of a roll, it's a little bit sore,'' Mahomes said. "But I'm able to move around and look forward to getting out to practice and seeing how I can push it as the week goes on.''
Coach Andy Reid said the Chiefs wouldn't put limitations on Mahomes at practice.
Mahomes initially injured the ankle in a Week 8 victory against the Las Vegas Raiders. He aggravated the injury in Monday night's win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers when he abruptly pulled up from what started as a scramble to throw a touchdown pass to running back Samaje Perine.
Mahomes was helped from the ground after the play and examined briefly on the sideline before returning to the game on the Chiefs' next possession without missing a...
November 06
November 06
Oilers star Connor McDavid set for return from ankle injury
Edmonton Oilers superstar Connor McDavid is ready to return to the lineup Wednesday against the visiting Vegas Golden Knights.
McDavid initially was expected to miss two to three weeks after injuring his ankle during his first shift against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Oct. 28. The three-time Hart Trophy recipient, however, sat out his team's next three games before participating in Wednesday's morning skate on a line with Zach Hyman and Jeff Skinner.
"I feel good," McDavid said after the morning session. "Looking forward to going and getting back in there."
McDavid, 27, is tied with a team-high seven assists to go along with three goals in 10 games this season.
Last season, he posted 132 points and guided the Oilers to Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final before falling to the Florida Panthers. McDavid was named the Conn Smythe Trophy recipient as the playoff MVP.
A five-time Art Ross Trophy winner as the league's point leader, McDavid...
November 06
November 06
Sources: Angels agree with ex-Cubs RHP Kyle Hendricks
SAN ANTONIO -- Free agent pitcher Kyle Hendricks has agreed to a one year, $2.5 million contract with the Los Angeles Angels, sources familiar with the situation told ESPN.
Hendricks, 34, posted a 5.92 ERA for the Chicago Cubs last season but was better in the second half after a stint in the bullpen. His ERA was 4.41 from mid-July to the end of the regular season. He threw 7⅓ shutout innings in his last start as a Cub in late September after spending the first 11 years of his career with Chicago.
The Angels are hoping Hendricks finds more consistency in 2025, similar to what he displayed at times late in 2024. They also have a young pitching staff that needs mentoring. Hendricks can help in that department as well.
Hendricks won the ERA title in 2016, helping the Cubs to a World Series title. He was the last member of that team still playing for the Cubs until he became a free agent after the 2024 season. Overall, he's 97-81 with a 3.68 ERA.
Hendricks is...
November 06
November 06
Padres give manager Mike Shildt two-year extension
One year into his tenure with the Padres, Mike Shildt has been rewarded with a two-year contract extension that ties the manager to San Diego through 2027.
The Padres announced the agreement Wednesday with the 56-year-old manager after they went 93-69, finishing five games behind the eventual World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League West and claiming the top NL wild card.
"I am honored to continue leading this team toward Peter Seidler's vision of bringing a World Series championship to San Diego," Shildt said in a statement. "In collaboration with our players and coaching staff, we are committed to building on our success, serving our community and the City of San Diego, and delivering a winning team to our incredible and deserving fan base."
San Diego swept a two-game wild-card series against the Atlanta Braves, then took a 2-1 lead on the Dodgers in the best-of-five NL Division Series. Los Angeles bounced back to win the final...
November 06
November 06
Browns GM noncommittal on Deshaun Watson as starting QB in 2025
BEREA, Ohio -- Cleveland Browns general manager Andrew Berry was noncommittal when asked Wednesday about Deshaun Watson's standing with the franchise, as the quarterback's struggles in Cleveland continued before he sustained a season-ending right Achilles tendon tear in Week 7.
"Really our focus with Deshaun, I would say for any player with a season-ending injury and a major injury, is first and foremost and to make sure that he gets healthy from the Achilles injury," Berry said during a news conference with reporters during the team's bye week. "Everything else, we'll deal with at a later moment."
Before the injury, Watson posted the lowest Total QBR of any qualified passer in the NFL. The Browns were 1-5 in Watson's six starts before the Achilles injury and didn't reach 20 points in any of those games.
Berry, though, said the offense's issues were not limited to Watson.
"We haven't played well as a team and we haven't played well as a unit on offense," Berry...
November 06
November 06
Source: Rangers give Bruce Bochy latitude to manage beyond 2025
The hiring of Skip Schumaker as a senior advisor may mean that the Texas Rangers have their future manager under contract.
But if current manager Bruce Bochy, who is likely to be inducted into the Hall of Fame once his career is over, wants to continue beyond 2025, the Rangers will enthusiastically welcome that.
According to one source, Bochy will have the latitude to continue if that's what he wants.
"If [Bochy] wants to manage beyond 2025, [the Rangers] are good with that," a highly ranked source told ESPN.
Bochy, who turns 70 in April, just completed his 27th season managing in the big leagues -- for the San Diego Padres and San Francisco Giants before he became the Rangers' skipper in 2023 -- and ranks eighth all time in managerial wins with 2,171, the most for any current manager.
Next season, he will likely pass Dusty Baker and Sparky Anderson on the list. Bochy's teams have won four championships -- the Giants in 2010, 2012 and 2014, and the...
November 06