Outfielder Lawrence Butler agrees to $65.5 million, 7-year deal with A's, AP source says

A person with direct knowledge of the negotiations says outfielder Lawrence Butler has agreed to a $65.5 million, seven-year contract with the Athletics. The agreement, first reported by ESPN, includes a team option for 2032 and was subject to a successful physical, the person said, speaking to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the contract hasn't been completed. Butler, a 24-year-old who was a sixth-round pick in the 2018 amateur draft, hit .262 average, 22 home runs and 18 stolen bases last year.

Doncic and James propel Lakers to 113-109 overtime victory over Knicks for 8th straight win

Luka Doncic scored 32 points, LeBron James added 31 and the Los Angeles Lakers extended their winning streak to eight games, defeating the New York Knicks 113-109 in overtime. Doncic also had 12 assists and eight rebounds. He had five points in overtime as the Lakers improved to 9-2 since he made his LA debut on Feb. 10. James scored the Lakers' final four points, all at the foul line, and finished with 12 rebounds and eight assists. Los Angeles trailed by double-digits midway through the fourth quarter before rallying. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 39 points and 10 assists before leaving in overtime with a foot injury.

Three of Ireland rugby's greatest make their last home stand in Dublin against France

Ireland rugby greats Conor Murray, Peter O'Mahony and Cian Healy will make their last home appearance in Dublin on Saturday. The Irish host France in a huge title-swaying match between the No. 1 and 2 teams in the Six Nations. The trio announced their international retirements last week to minimize the emotional distraction in their preparations this week. O'Mahony is starting in the back row and scrumhalf Murray and loosehead prop Healy are in the reserves. They have been playing international rugby together for 13 years.

Barrington Hargress scores 32 as UC Riverside cruises past Cal State Northridge 94-79

Barrington Hargress scored 32 points to lead UC Riverside over Cal State Northridge 94-79.

Draymond Green sorry for Towns' loss, says podcast comments about avoiding Butler were what he heard

Draymond Green sent well wishes to Karl-Anthony Towns after the death after a family friend, but says he was just repeating what he heard when he said on his podcast that Towns didn't play for the Knicks against Golden State this week because Jimmy Butler was in the building. Towns was listed out for personal reasons when the Warriors beat the Knicks 114-102 on Tuesday. Green, during his podcast with Baron Davis, said that "some would say he didn't play because Jimmy was in the building." He was referencing tensions between Butler and Towns when they were teammates in Minnesota when Butler was seeking a trade. Towns rejoined the Knicks on Thursday and said he had been with his family.

Cal Poly hands Cal State Fullerton 11th straight loss with 100-61 romp behind Owen Koonce

Owen Koonce had 21 points and Cal Poly handed Cal State Fullerton its 11th straight loss with a 100-61 victory.

Makar and MacKinnon lead scoring spree in 7-3 win as Avalanche beat Sharks for a 12th straight time

Cale Makar had two goals and four assists for the first six-point game by a defenseman in franchise history and Nathan MacKinnon added two goals and three assists to extend his home points streak to 18 games in the Colorado Avalanche's 7-3 romp over the San Jose Sharks on Thursday night. MacKinnon moved three points away from joining Joe Sakic and Peter Stastny as the only skaters in franchise history to reach 1,000 points. Jonathan Drouin, Joel Kiviranta and Martin Necas added goals as the Avalanche improved to 4-0 on their six-game homestand. They have won 12 straight against the Sharks, roughing up former Colorado goaltender Alexandar Georgiev in the rout. Fabian Zetterlund, Macklin Celebrini and William Eklund scored for the Sharks.

Flippin's 18 lead Grambling over Alabama A&M 67-51

Led by James Flippin's 18 points, the Grambling Tigers defeated the Alabama A&M Bulldogs 67-51

St. Thomas-Minnesota cruises past Denver 80-62 in Summit League Championship quarterfinals

Miles Barnstable had 17 points to lead St. Thomas-Minnesota to an 80-62 victory over Denver in the quarterfinals of the Summit League Championship.

Efforts by Georgia lawmakers to legalize sports betting fizzle again

It turns out 2025 isn't the year for legalized sports betting in Georgia. Efforts to send a state constitutional amendment to voters failed Thursday, as neither the amendment nor a bill laying out details ever came to a vote in the state legislature. Voters in Missouri narrowly approved sports betting in a 2024 referendum, making it the 39th state to legalize the practice. But like in Georgia, legalization faces hurdles in the other 10 remaining states that bar sports gambling. The Georgia measures could still be revived in the last month of the session, but it has become much less likely.

McGhie's 20 lead UCSD past Long Beach State 70-63

Led by Tyler McGhie's 20 points, the UCSD Tritons defeated the Long Beach State Beach 70-63

After Curry's highlight heave in a 40-point game, Green says the 'NBA is lucky' to watch the showman

Perhaps only Stephen Curry could describe his basket as the first half was ending as a "rhythm shot." Who else but the most accomplished outside shooter in history could be in rhythm when he's nearly 40 feet away and not even facing the basket? Curry threw in the turnaround heave from 38 feet with 0.3 seconds left in the second quarter while scoring 40 points in Golden State's 121-119 victory over Brooklyn on Thursday night. Longtime teammate Draymond Green said after the game he was thinking to himself that "the NBA is lucky, because this man is going into every arena and putting on a show."

Evan Bouchard scores late in OT to lift the Oilers past the Canadiens, 3-2

Evan Bouchard scored off Connor McDavid's nifty centering pass after McDavid circled the Montreal zone late in overtime to the give the Edmonton Oilers a 3-2 victory over the Canadiens on Thursday night. Leon Draisaitl scored his NHL-leading 46th goal and assisted on Bouchard's goal. Corey Perry also scored and Stuart Skinner made 25 saves. The Oilers had lost six of seven, and the Canadiens had won five in a row. Cole Caufield scored his 31st for Montreal, and Joel Armia also beat Skinner. Sam Montembeault stopped 29 shots. Draisaitl broke a tie with Mark Messier for fourth place on the Oilers' career goals list with 393. Wayne Gretzky tops the list with 583, followed by Jari Kurri with 474 and Glenn Anderson with 417.

Olsen scores 21, Iowa forces 24 turnovers to oust sixth-seed Michigan St., 74-61 in Big 10 tourney

Lucy Olsen scored 21 points and got her ninth assist by finding Kylie Feuerbach open in the corner for a 3-pointer in the final minute that slammed the door on Iowa's 74-61 win over No. 24 Michigan State at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in the second round of the Big Ten Conference Tournament. With former teammate Caitlin Clark cheering them on, the Hawkeyes earned their 11th straight conference tournament victory to advance to the quarterfinal round and a rematch with No. 8-ranked and third-seeded Ohio State. Iowa (22-9) has played in five of the last six Big Ten Tournament championship games.

Bailey Maupin scores 22 to help 14th-seeded Texas Tech women stun Utah 75-64 in Big 12 Tournament

Bailey Maupin scored 22 points to help 14th-seeded Texas Tech stun No. 6 seed Utah 75-64 in the second round of the Big 12 Conference Tournament at T-Mobile Center.The Lady Raiders (17-16) advance to play No. 3 seed Oklahoma State in Friday's quarterfinals. Texas Tech advanced with a 57-53 victory over 11th-seeded Kansas in Wednesday's first round.

Freshman Liv McGill helps Florida women stun No. 19 Alabama 63-61 in 2nd round of SEC Tournament

Freshman Liv McGill scored 11 of her season-high 29 points in the fourth quarter and No. 11 seed Florida hung on to stun 19th-ranked and sixth-seeded Alabama 63-61 in the second round of the Southeastern Conference Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.Florida (16-16) beat a ranked team for the first time since 2022 and moves on to play No. 3 seed LSU in Friday's quarterfinals. The Gators advanced with a 60-50 victory over 14th-seeded Auburn on Wednesday.

Rockets take over after halftime in a 109-97 road victory over Pelicans

and for the rest of the game.

Panthers' Sergei Bobrovsky moves into tie for 10th in wins by NHL goalies

Sergei Bobrovsky of the Florida Panthers is making a strong case for his third Vezina Trophy all while joining elite company among the best goaltenders in NHL history. Bobrovksy made 16 saves Thursday night for his second shutout in four games and his fourth of the season in a 3-0 win over Columbus. This win was the 423rd of his career. That tied the 36-year-old Bobrovsky with Tony Esposito for 10th on the NHL's career list. The 14-year veteran got to that victory total in 144 fewer games than Esposito. Florida defenseman says it seems like it's always another milestone for Bobrovsky.

Jason Robertson scores twice and gets OT winner as Stars rally past Flames, 3-2

Jason Robertson scored twice, including the winner with 42 seconds remaining in overtime, and the Dallas Stars erased a two-goal deficit in a 3-2 victory over the Calgary Flames. Roope Hintz assisted on both of Robertson's goals to give him 11 in the past four games. Robertson's first goal was a tying tally in the third period. It was Dallas' second victory of the season when trailing after two periods. Joel Farabee scored on a nifty between-the-legs move early in the first period for Calgary. Mikael Backlund had an unassisted goal after a scramble in front of the net early in the second.

US offers $10 million reward for fugitive snowboarder accused of running deadly drug ring

There's a $10 million reward for information leading to the arrest of a former Olympic snowboarder for Canada who is wanted for running a multi-national drug trafficking network and planning multiple murders related to the drug ring. The FBI has added 43-year-old Ryan Wedding to its 10 Most Wanted list, while also announcing the State Department's $10 million offer. Wedding was charged last June with murder and drug crimes. Those charges were augmented in September in an indictment that alleged Wedding and others arranged the shipment of some 60 tons of cocaine a year. Wedding finished 24th in parallel giant slalom at the 2002 Olympics.

Defenseman Dmitry Orlov misses game for first time with Hurricanes

Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Dmitry Orlov missed a game for the first time this season with an unexpected pregame injury. Orlov was a late scratch from the lineup before the Hurricanes' 3-2 win over the Boston Bruins. Orlov, 33, played in all 82 regular-season games in 2023-24 for the Hurricanes, who acquired him in July 2023. Then in the first period, Carolina defenseman Riley Stillman exited when he was bashed in the face by Bruins center John Beecher's skate after logging only 18 seconds. He didn't return.

Coby White scores career-high 44 points in the Bulls' 125-123 victory over the Magic

Coby White scored a career-high 44 points and the Chicago Bulls beat the Orlando Magic 125-123 on Thursday night. White was 7 of 15 from 3-point range. He scored Chicago's last nine points on two layups, a dunk and a 3-pointer. Josh Giddy added 19 points, 13 rebounds and nine assists, and and Tre Jones had 20 points. Paolo Banchero and Cole Anthony scored 20 points each for Orlando. The Magic have lost five straight.

Smith scores 26 as Delaware State knocks off Maryland-Eastern Shore 75-68

Led by Robert Smith's 26 points, the Delaware State Hornets defeated the Maryland-Eastern Shore Hawks 75-68 on Thursday. The Hornets are now 16-13 with the win and the Hawks dropped to 6-24.

Filip Forsberg scores twice to help the Predators beat the Kraken 5-3

Filip Forsberg scored two goals and the Nashville Predators beat the Seattle Kraken 5-3. Brady Skjei scored the first of the Predators' three second-period goals. Forsberg and Michael McCarron also scored in the period, with McCarron's wrap-around goal making it 4-1 with 9 seconds remaining. Luke Evangelista also scored for Nashville. Mikey Eyssimont, Adam Larsson and Jared McCann scored for the Kraken. Forsberg now has 48 career multi-goal games for the fourth most by a Swedish-born player. Nashville won its second straight game for the first time since February.

Beverly scores 16 as Wichita State knocks off Rice 63-59

Harlond Beverly scored 16 points off of the bench to help lead the Wichita State Shockers past the Rice Owls 63-59 on Thursday. The Shockers improved to 18-12 with the victory and the Owls fell to 13-18.

With Messi sitting out again, Suárez and Allende score to lead Inter Miami past Cavalier FC 2-0

Luis Suárez and Tadeo Allende scored second-half goals with a healthy Lionel Messi on the bench, and Inter Miami beat Jamaican club Cavalier FC 2-0 in the first leg of a CONCACAF Champions Cup group of 16 match. Messi sat out his second straight game. He didn't travel with Miami to Houston for a Major League Soccer match against the Dynamo on Sunday night, which Miami won 4-1. The second leg against Cavalier will be on March 13 in Kingston, Jamaica.

Norfolk State takes down Howard 81-69 to clinch a share of the MEAC regular-season championship

Led by Brian Moore Jr.'s 21 points, the Norfolk State Spartans defeated the Howard Bison 81-69 on Thursday. The Spartans are now 21-10 with the victory and the Bison fell to 12-19.

Woods puts up 19 as Robert Morris beats Wright State 83-62 in Horizon League Tournament

Led by Kam Woods' 19 points, the Robert Morris Colonials defeated the Wright State Raiders 83-62 in the Horizon League Tournament quarterfinals on Thursday.

McGhee scores 27 in UAB's 89-80 win over Florida Atlantic

Led by Ja'Borri McGhee's 27 points, the UAB Blazers defeated the Florida Atlantic Owls 89-80 on Thursday. The Blazers improved to 20-10 with the victory and the Owls fell to 16-14.

Trae Young has 22 points and 16 assists in the Hawks' 124-118 victory over the Pacers

Trae Young had 22 points and 16 assists, Onyeka Okongwu added 20 points and 13 rebounds and the Atlanta Hawks beat the Indiana Pacers 124-118 on Thursday night to open a two-game set. Georges Niang scored 12 of his 24 points in the fourth quarter for the Hawks, who had lost five in a row against Indiana since the 2022-23 season. His layup with 1:07 left put Atlanta up 116-109. Pascal Siakam had 35 points for the Pacers, who were playing without two-time All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton for only the second time this season. Haliburton was out with a hip issue.

Guentzel has hat trick, Bjorkstrand scores go-ahead goal and Lightning rally past Sabres 6-5

Jake Guentzel had a hat trick, Oliver Bjorkstrand scored the go-ahead goal early in the third period, and Tampa Bay Lightning rallied for a 6-5 victory over the Buffalo Sabres. Bjorkstrand scored on a wrist shot with 18:20 remaining, assisted by Nikita Kucherov and Yanni Gourde. Guentzel scored all three of his goals in the second period and has 32 this season. Nicholas Paul and Darren Raddysh also scored for the Lightning. Alex Tuch, Tage Thompson, Rasmus Dahlin, Peyton Krebs and John-Jason Peterka scored for the Sabres.

Mukeba scores 21, Oakland beats Milwaukee 72-64 in Horizon League Tournament

Led by Allen David Mukeba Jr.'s 21 points, the Oakland Golden Grizzlies defeated the Milwaukee Panthers 72-64 in the Horizon League Tournament on Thursday.

Curry scores 40 points and the Warriors finish a 4-1 trip with a 121-119 victory over the Nets

Stephen Curry scored 40 points, with a turnaround heave from just inside halfcourt among his seven 3-pointers, and the Golden State Warriors climbed out of a 22-point hole to beat the Brooklyn Nets 121-119. Jimmy Butler added 25 for the Warriors, who finished 4-1 on their road trip but made it hard on themselves while falling behind 27-5. They rallied from at least 20 down to win for the third time this season. Golden State is 10-2 since Butler entered the lineup on Feb. 8 in Chicago. The Warriors erased a 24-point deficit in that game, their biggest comeback of the season.

No. 8 Michigan State takes outright Big Ten regular-season title with 91-84 victory over Iowa

Jace Richardson scored 22 points and No. 8 Michigan State wrapped up the outright Big Ten regular-season championship with an 91-84 victory over Iowa on Thursday night. Michigan State (25-5, 16-3) won its first conference title since 2020. The Spartans secured a share of the championship Wednesday night with Michigan's loss to Maryland. Down 58-48 with 12:13 left, Michigan States reeled off a 19-2 run and never trailed again on the way to its sixth consecutive victory. The Spartans scored 61 second-half points. Josh Dix led Iowa (15-15, 6-13) with 18 points.

Clark puts up 22 in Merrimack's 75-53 victory over Marist

Led by Adam Clark's 22 points, the Merrimack Warriors defeated the Marist Red Foxes 75-53 on Thursday. The Warriors are now 17-14 on the season, while the Red Foxes fell to 20-8.

Filipovity's 19 lead New Mexico State past Louisiana Tech 67-55

Led by Peter Filipovity's 19 points, the New Mexico State Aggies defeated the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs 67-55 on Thursday. The Aggies improved to 17-13 with the victory and the Bulldogs fell to 19-11.

Peter scores 33, Liberty downs Middle Tennessee 86-81

The Liberty Flames defeated the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders 86-81 on Thursday led by Taelon Peter's 33 points. The Flames moved to 24-6 with the victory and the Blue Raiders fell to 20-10.

Louisville pulls out 70-68 overtime win against Clemson in ACC Tournament

Freshman Tajianna Roberts scored seven of her 16 points in overtime and sixth-seeded Louisville edged 11th-seeded Clemson 70-68 on Thursday night in the second round of the ACC Tournament. The Cardinals (21-9) will play third-seeded and No. 11-ranked Duke in a quarterfinal Friday. Louisville won at Duke 70-62 on Feb. 20. Roberts had 10 rebounds while Ja'Leah Williams also scored 16 points and had 12 rebounds for the Cardinals. Louisville's leading scorer and ACC first-teamer Jayda Curry did not play after reportedly injuring a shoulder in the regular-season finale against Notre Dame on Sunday. Hannah Kohn scored 14 points including a 3-pointer that sent the game into overtime for Clemson.

Panthers' Sergei Bobrovksy shuts out Blue Jackets 3-0 and moves to 10th on NHL career wins list

Sergei Bobrovsky stopped 16 shots for his second shutout in four games and fourth of the season, and the Florida Panthers won their fifth straight, 3-0 over the Columbus Blue Jackets. The win for Bobrovsky was his 423rd, moving the 36-year-old, 14-year veteran into a tie with Tony Esposito for 10th on the NHL's career list. He did it in 742 games, 144 fewer than Esposito. Aleksander Barkov assisted on Florida's first two goals and scored on an empty-netter. Sam Reinhart also had a goal and two assists for the Panthers, and Mackie Samoskevich scored the other goal. Elvis Merzlikins made 33 saves for the Blue Jackets.

Jarvis' goal with 18.6 seconds left lifts Hurricanes to 3-2 win over Bruins

Seth Jarvis scored with 18.6 seconds remaining and the Carolina Hurricanes won their third consecutive game by defeating the Boston Bruins 3-2. Sebastian Aho and Brent Burns also scored for the Hurricanes, whose last three victories have each come by one goal. Pyotr Kochetkov made 32 saves. Morgan Geekie scored both goals for the Bruins, who have lost three straight. Joonas Korpisalo made 20 saves.

Monroe has 22, Quinnipiac knocks off Mount St. Mary's 79-70

Led by Amarri Monroe's 22 points, the Quinnipiac Bobcats defeated the Mount St. Mary's Mountaineers 79-70 on Thursday. The Bobcats are now 19-11 on the season, while the Mountaineers fell to 18-12.

Tatum scores 35 to carry load for short-handed Celtics in 123-105 win over 76ers

Jayson Tatum had 35 points and the Boston Celtics powered past the Philadelphia 76ers 123-105. It was Tatum's 24th game this season with at least 30 points even though he sat out the entire fourth quarter as Boston posted its ninth win in its last 11 games. Payton Pritchard added 19 points and Derrick White finished with 12 points and six assists after having one of his teeth knocked out in the first half when he took an inadvertent elbow. Kelly Oubre Jr. led the 76ers with 27 points and Lonnie Walker IV added 17.

Spooner scores 1st 2 two goals of the season to help the Sceptres beat the Victoire, 4-1

Natalie Spooner scored her first two goals of the season and the Toronto Sceptres beat the PWHL-leading Montreal Victoire 4-1 on Thursday night. The league MVP a year ago, Spooner has played six games since returning from a knee injury sustained in the playoffs. She scored both goals on power plays. Allie Munroe and Maggie Connors also scored and Kristen Campbell made 25 saves to help Toronto beat Montreal for the first time in five games this season. Marie-Philip Poulin scored for Montreal.

Sutton puts up 28 as Omaha downs Kansas City 70-61 in Summit League Tournament

Led by Marquel Sutton's 28 points, the Omaha Mavericks defeated the Kansas City Roos 70-61 in the Summit League Tournament on Thursday.

Little Rock defeats UT Martin 82-77 in Ohio Valley Conference Tournament

Led by Mwani Wilkinson's 29 points, the Little Rock Trojans defeated the UT Martin Skyhawks 82-77 in the Ohio Valley Conference Tournament on Thursday.

Navy knock offs Boston University 86-78 in Patriot League Tournament quarterfinals

Austin Benigni scored 30 points to lead Navy over Boston University 86-78 in the quarterfinals of the Patriot League Tournament.

Galette's 22 help Youngstown State defeat Purdue Fort Wayne 72-67 in Horizon League Tournament

Led by Nico Galette's 22 points, the Youngstown State Penguins defeated the Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons 72-67 in the Horizon League Tournament on Thursday.

American defeats Lafayette in Patriot League Tournament 71-69

Led by Greg Jones' 17 points, the American Eagles defeated the Lafayette Leopards 71-69 in the Patriot League Tournament on Thursday.

Stenlund ends scoring drought to help Utah down slumping Red Wings, 4-2

Kevin Stenlund scored the go-ahead goal early in the third period and the Utah Hockey Club handed Detroit its fourth straight loss, 4-2. Stenlund scored his first goal in 24 games, while Dylan Guenther, Nick Schmaltz and Lawson Crouse also scored for Utah, which has won four of its last five games. Karel Vejmelka made 38 saves on the same day he signed to a five-year contract extension. Dylan Larkin and Jonatan Berggren scored first-period goals for the Red Wings. Alex Lyon stopped 15 shots. Detroit is 1-4-1 in its last six home games.

Scheifele and Connor help Jets snap their 3-game skid with a 4-1 win over Flyers

Mark Scheifele had a goal and two assists, Kyle Connor added a goal and an assist and the Winnipeg Jets snapped a three-game skid by defeating the Philadelphia Flyers 4-1. Nikolaj Ehlers and Adam Lowry also scored for the Jets, who became the first NHL team to reach 90 points this season. Eric Comrie made 21 saves. Matvei Michkov scored the lone goal for Philadelphia, which lost for the third time in four games.

Siena takes down Fairfield 68-64

Led by Justice Shoats' 23 points, the Siena Saints defeated the Fairfield Stags 68-64 on Thursday. The Saints are now 14-16 on the season, while the Stags fell to 11-19.

Davis scores 21, Niagara defeats Saint Peter's 78-68 in OT

Led by Josiah Davis' 21 points, the Niagara Purple Eagles defeated the Saint Peter's Peacocks 78-68 in overtime

Bucknell holds off Loyola Maryland 76-72 in OT in Patriot League Tournament quarterfinals

Noah Williamson totaled 21 points and 10 rebounds to help Bucknell fend off Loyola Maryland 76-72 in overtime in the quarterfinals of the Patriot League Tournament. Josh Bascoe finished with 20 points, eight rebounds and six assists for the Bison (18-14), who have won six in a row. Elvin Edmonds IV scored 12. He made two free throws with 1:54 left in the extra period to give the Bison the lead for good.

Felton scores 17 in East Carolina's 73-64 victory against Tulane

Led by RJ Felton's 17 points, the East Carolina Pirates defeated the Tulane Green Wave 73-64 on Thursday. The Pirates moved to 18-12 with the victory and the Green Wave dropped to 17-13.

Zion Cruz scores 12 to lead Rider to 78-50 victory over Canisius

Zion Cruz had 12 points to help Rider defeat Canisius 78-50.

Colgate wins 84-55 against Army in Patriot League Tournament

Led by Jalen Cox's 20 points, the Colgate Raiders defeated the Army Black Knights 84-55 in the Patriot League Tournament on Thursday.

Manhattan wins 90-74 against Sacred Heart

Led by Masiah Gilyard's 21 points, the Manhattan Jaspers defeated the Sacred Heart Pioneers 90-74 on Thursday. The Jaspers improved to 16-12 with the win and the Pioneers fell to 14-16.

Tyrese Haliburton misses the Pacers' game against the Hawks because of a hip injury

Indiana guard Tyrese Haliburton missed the Pacers' game against Atlanta because of a hip injury. The two-time All-Star missed only his second game this season. He had been listed as questionable with a left hip flexor strain, and was on the bench in street clothes Thursday night. The Pacers were also without Bennedict Mathurin, who missed his fourth game in a row with a sprained right wrist. In seven games since the All-Star break, Haliburton has averaged 23.9 points and 12.0 assists a game.

Celtics' Derrick White leaves in 1st half vs. 76ers with tooth injury, returns for 2nd half

Celtics guard Derrick White left in the first half of Boston's matchup with Philadelphia on Thursday night with a dental injury that was reminiscent of the one he suffered last year in the NBA Finals. White left at the 7:13 mark of the second quarter after taking an inadvertent elbow to the face while challenging Kelly Oubre Jr.'s layup. Replays showed White getting hit, grasping immediately for his mouth and then picking up his temporary bridge from last year's Finals incident He was escorted to the locker room with a towel over his face, then returned to start the third quarter. During the Celtics' NBA Finals-ending Game 5 victory over Dallas White chipped one of his front teeth after getting landed on.

Addy Brown scores 41 points, third-most in Big 12 Tournament history in Iowa State's 96-88 win

Addy Brown scored 41 points, third-most in Big 12 Tournament history, and Iowa State shook off Arizona State 96-88 on Thursday in the second round. Her total trails just Brittney Griner's 45 for Baylor in the 2012 tournament and Andrea Riley's 43 for Oklahoma State in 2010. She finished a point shy of the program record of 42 set by Tonya Burns in 1984. The seventh-seeded Cyclones will face second-seeded and No. 17-ranked Baylor in a Friday quarterfinal.  Audi Crooks added 20 points for Iowa State. Jalyn Brown made four 3s and scored 26 points to lead ASU. Tyi Skinner added 23 points and had four 3s in setting a program single-season record of 80.

Britt scores 17, Nebraska women rally to top Illini 74-70, face UCLA in Big Ten quarterfinals

Freshman Britt Prince scored 17 points with five assists and 10th-seeded Nebraska rallied for a 74-70 win over seventh-seeded Illinois in the Big Ten Tournament, closing with a 13-5 run. Prince hit consecutive jumpers to tie the game at 65 with 2:23 to play and Jessica Petrie drilled a 3-pointer to give the Cornhuskers the lead, their first of the fourth quarter, at 1:40. After two Illini free throws, Nebraska had a three-shot possession, getting a clutch layup from Petrie on an inbounds pass from Prince. The Cornhuskers outscored the Illini 25-14 in the fourth to pick up their fifth win after trailing by 10-plus points. The Cornhuskers face second-seeded and fourth-ranked UCLA in the quarterfinals on Friday. Genesis Bryant led Illinois with 20 points with Kendall Bostic adding 19.

Red Wings forward and Michigan native Carter Mazur injured in NHL debut

Carter Mazur's NHL debut lasted just two shifts.The 22-year-old Detroit Red Wings forward suffered an upper-body injury in the first period against Utah on Thursday night. Mazur was called up from the American Hockey League's Grand Rapids Griffins earlier in the day. The Jackson, Michigan native was Detroit's third-round selection in the 2021 NHL Draft. He had 15 points in 20 games with the Griffins this season, including 11 in his last 11 AHL games. Mazur was sidelined from Oct. 19 until Jan. 18 with an upper-body injury.

Ole Miss beats Mississippi State 85-73 to advance to SEC Tournament quarters for 5th straight season

Kennedy Todd-Williams and Madison Scott scored 20 points apiece and No. 7 seed Ole Miss beat No. 10 seed Mississippi State 85-73 to advance to the SEC Tournament quarterfinals for the fifth straight season. Ole Miss (20-9), which has won 20-plus in four straight seasons, will play top-ranked and No. 2 seed Texas in the quarterfinals on Friday.  Ole Miss led the entire third quarter and scored the opening four points of the fourth for a 69-56 lead. Mississippi State never got closer than a nine-point deficit after that. Reserves Sira Thienou had 13 points and Christeen Iwuala scored 11 for Ole Miss. The Rebels went 21 of 28 from the free-throw line, with six apiece from Todd-Williams and Scott.

Duckett leads San Diego over Pacific 81-77 in West Coast Conference Tournament

Tony Duckett led the San Diego Toreros with 21 points and sealed the victory with a free throw with three seconds remaining as the Toreros knocked off the Pacific Tigers in the West Coast Conference Tournament 81-77 on Thursday.

Georgia State takes down Georgia Southern 80-71 in Sun Belt Tournament

Led by Toneari Lane's 22 points, the Georgia State Panthers defeated the Georgia Southern Eagles 80-71 in the Sun Belt Conference Tournament on Thursday.

Bears sign special teams contributors Josh Blackwell, Amen Ogbongbemiga to 2-year extensions

The Chicago Bears have signed special teams contributors Josh Blackwell and Amen Ogbongbemiga to two-year contract extensions. Blackwell has 22 special teams tackles over three years in Chicago. He ended last season on a memorable note, becoming the first Bears player since 2021 to return a punt for a touchdown when he ran one back 94 yards on a trick play in the finale at Green Bay. Blackwell entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with Philadelphia in 2022. He played at Duke from 2017 to 2021. Ogbongbemiga had a career-high 11 special teams tackles for Chicago last season after playing his first three years with the Los Angeles Chargers. A linebacker, he has 27 career tackles on defense.

MLB players' union, Bad Bunny agency agree to dismiss lawsuit over discipline

Bad Bunny's sports representation firm and the Major League Baseball Players Association have filed an agreement to dismiss the union's lawsuit over penalties imposed for making improper inducements. The sides submitted a stipulation telling U.S. District Judge Jennifer H. Rearden in Manhattan they had settled the matter. The MLBPA disciplined Rimas Sports, the agency co-owned by Puerto Rican musical artist Bad Bunny, last April over violations of its agent regulations. It revoked the agent certification of Rimas' William Arroyo and denied certifications of executives Noah Assad and Jonathan Miranda. An arbitrator Ruth upheld five-year suspensions of Assad and Miranda and cut Arroyo's suspension to three years.

Ex-internationals condemn Super Rugby travel failures for Fijian Drua

Ex-internationals Lote Tuqiri and Nemani Nadolo have condemned the Super Rugby organizational failures that led to the Fijian Drua squad traveling more than 300 kilometers (about 185 miles) in a luggage truck and having to check out of their hotel early on the day of their second-round match against the Hurricanes. The Drua arrived in Wellington, New Zealand near midnight on the day before the match and discovered the bus they'd booked to take them several hours away to Napier had not arrived. Rather than wait three hours for a replacement bus, the team traveled to their hotel in a truck booked to take their luggage and equipment. News of the travel issues in late February became public this week.

Wyndham Clark handles a stressful test at Bay Hill to lead by 2

Wyndham Clark has the lead at the Arnold Palmer Invitational after a brutal day of cold and wind at Bay Hill. Clark played in the afternoon and got a slight reprieve with calmer wind. But his 67 was still the highest score to lead at Bay Hill in eight years. He leads by two shots over a group that includes Shane Lowry and Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley. Rory McIlroy bogeyed his last hole for a 70. Defending champion Scottie Scheffler battled to a 71. Only 14 players in the 72-man field of this signature event managed to break par.

Onyiah, Suarez with double-doubles in Cal's 75-58 win over Virginia at ACC Tournament

Ugonne Onyiah and Marta Suarez each had 16 points and 10 rebounds, Lulu Twidale made four 3-pointers and also scored 16 points and seventh-seeded California defeated 10th-seeded Virginia 75-58 on Thursday in the second round of the ACC Tournament. The Golden Bears (25-7) will take on second-seeded and No. 6-ranked Notre Dame in a quarterfinal Friday. Kayla Williams added 12 points for Cal, which shot 46% and made 9 of 24 3-point tries and was plus-18 on the boards. Cal has its most wins since it won 32 games in 2012-13. Kymora Johnson had 18 points and rebounds for the Cavaliers (17-15).

Coach Quin Snyder returns to Hawks' bench against Pacers after missing 1 game due to an illness

Atlanta Hawks coach Quin Snyder returned to the bench for Thursday night's game against the Indiana Pacers after missing one game due to an illness. Snyder sat out Tuesday night's 127-121 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks with flu-like symptoms. Assistant Igor Kokoskov served as acting coach. Snyder said Kokoskov's "experience makes you very comfortable in those situations." Kokoskov, a native of Serbia, has coached in the NBA for 19 years.

Kevin Roy shoots 62, leads Puerto Rico Open by 1 over Chris Gotterup

Kevin Roy returned from an hourlong rain delay and holed a bunker shot for his 10th of 11 birdies on Thursday en route to a 10-under 62 and a one-shot lead in the Puerto Rico Open. It was a career-low PGA Tour round for the 34-year-old Roy. Chris Gotterup settled for a 63 after finding water on the 18th hole at Grand Reserve Golf Club. Rasmus Neergard-Petersen and Davis Riley each shot 64 in soft conditions at the event played opposite the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill. The weather delay prevented 18 players from finishing before darkness.

Illinois State defeats Missouri State 70-54 in Missouri Valley Conference Tournament

Led by Johnny Kinziger's 13 points, the Illinois State Redbirds defeated the Missouri State Bears 70-54 in the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament on Thursday.

Jags continue makeover by cutting tight end Evan Engram and returner Devin Duvernay

The Jacksonville Jaguars are releasing two-time Pro Bowl tight end Evan Engram and returner/receiver Devin Duvernay. The moves are part of an offensive makeover under new coach Liam Coen.They also are dumping journeyman cornerback Ronald Darby, who is coming off arguably the worst season in his 10-year professional career. The Jaguars notified all three players of the pending cuts Thursday, according to a person familiar with the process. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the moves won't be official until the new league year begins next week.

Bengals All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson receives permission to seek a trade, AP sources say

Two people with knowledge of the move say All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson received permission from the Cincinnati Bengals to seek a trade. Hendrickson led the NFL in sacks this past season. The people spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to discuss personnel moves. ESPN first reported the move after receiving a statement from Hendrickson. Hendrickson had 17 1/2 sacks last season for the second straight year. His 57 sacks since joining the Bengals in 2021 are third-most in the league over the past four seasons.

2 men plead not guilty in drug overdose deaths of 3 Kansas City Chiefs fans after game

Two men have pleaded not guilty in the drug overdose deaths of three Kansas City Chiefs fans whose bodies were found in a backyard two days after they got together to watch a game in 2024. Jordan Willis and Ivory Carson appeared separately via video from jail Thursday. They were charged a day earlier with three counts of involuntary manslaughter and two counts of delivery of a controlled substance in a case that gained widespread attention on social media. Their bond is set at $100,000 cash only. The judge set the next hearing date for Tuesday.

Titans wrap up coaching staff changes by hiring Mike McCoy as an offensive assistant

Tennessee Titans coach Brian Callahan has finished making changes to his coaching staff by hiring former Chargers head coach Mike McCoy as a senior offensive assistant. The Titans also announced Thursday that Callahan has hired Dylan Autenrieth as a defensive assistant and promoted Scott Cohen to director of football strategy. McCoy coached the then-San Diego Chargers between 2013 and 2016 and has been an NFL offensive coordinator for six seasons. He spent the past three years as Jacksonville's quarterbacks coach. He should be a good resource for Callahan, who's coming off his first season as a head coach.

No. 25 South Dakota State women top Omaha 87-67 in Summit League opener

Brooklyn Meyer scored 16 points and No. 25 South Dakota State cruised to an 87-67 win over Omaha in the Summit League Tournament, giving the Jackrabbits 57-straight wins over conference opponents. South Dakota State plays in Saturday's semifinal against the winner of Friday's quarterfinal between No. 4 seed St. Thomas and No. 5 North Dakota. The Jackrabbits have gone through three regular seasons unbeaten in league games and have won the past two tournaments. SDSU is the No. 1 seed for the fifth-straight season and has won 16 straight games. Grace Cave scored 20 points for the eighth-seeded Mavericks. The Jackrabbits led 21-16 after one quarter and used a 10-0 run in the middle of the second to build a 39-24 halftime lead. The lead stayed in double figures the rest of the way.

Former MLB outfielder Tyler Naquin attempting comeback as pitcher with Guardians

Tyler Naquin agreed to a minor league contract with the Cleveland Guardians, who intend for him to switch positions from the outfield to the pitcher's mound. The Guardians said Naquin had reported to spring training camp and will be working out as a right-handed pitcher. Naquin, who turns 34 on April 24, played in the major leagues from 2016-23 and was in the outfield for every one of his 511 regular-season games with Cleveland, Cincinnati, the New York Mets and the Chicago White Sox. He has a career batting average of .263 with a .316 on-base percentage, 61 homers and 237 RBIs.

Jaguars agree to trade receiver Christian Kirk to the Texans for a 2026 pick, AP source says

for receiver Christian Kirk before officially releasing him. A person familiar with the move says the Jaguars agreed to trade Kirk to AFC South opponent Houston for a seventh-round draft pick in 2026. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because neither side confirmed the deal, which won't be official until the new league year begins Wednesday. The Texans were looking for a slot receiver after Tank Dell underwent a second knee surgery earlier this week.

Freshmen help rally Colorado over Arizona women 61-58 in second round of Big 12 Tournament

Freshmen Tabitha Benson and Kennedy Sanders combined for 30 points and ninth-seeded Colorado defeated eighth-seeded Arizona 61-58 on Thursday in the second round of the Big 12 Tournament. The Buffaloes (20-11) advance to play top seed and No. 8-ranked TCU in a quarterfinal Friday. Betson finished with 16 points and Sanders 14. Skylar Jones scored 17 points, Jada Williams, playing in her hometown added 13 and Isis Beh had 10 rebounds to go with nine points for Arizona (19-13). Arizona led by eight entering the fourth quarter but Sanders scored seven points and Lior Garzon all nine of hers in rallying the Buffaloes.

Thursday's Scores

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Thursday's Scores

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Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova says she is taking time off because of her shoulder

2023 Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova will take a few months off the tennis tour because of continuing problems with her surgically repaired left shoulder. Vondrousova announced that she will take a break via a social media post on Thursday. The 25-year-old left-hander from the Czech Republic has played only eight matches so far in 2025. Her record is 4-4. That includes a second-round loss to eventual champion Mirra Andreeva at Dubai last month. She hasn't entered a Grand Slam tournament since a first-round loss at Wimbledon in July. Vondrousova had shoulder surgery in August.

A's hire former Raiders President Marc Badain for the same position

Former Las Vegas Raiders President Marc Badain has been hired for the same position with the Athletics. Badain succeeds Dave Kaval, who announced his resignation on Dec. 27. Sandy Dean, who has been spearheading approval and construction of a new stadium in Las Vegas approved, had been the acting president. After leaving Oakland at the end of the 2024 season. the A's will play at least three seasons at a Triple-A ballpark in West Sacramento, California. They hope their Las Vegas stadium will open for the 2028 season.

Freshmen Olivia Olson, Syla Swords combine for 36 as Michigan ends Washington's 5-game win streak

Olivia Olson scored 21 points, fellow freshman Syla Swords added 15 and No. 5 seed Michigan beat No. 12 seed Washington 66-58 in the second round of the Big Ten Tournament to end the Huskies' five-game win streak. Michigan (21-9) advances to play No. 4 seed and 15th-ranked Maryland on Friday in the quarterfinals. Michigan reached the semifinals last year, marking the first time it had done so since back-to-back appearances in 2019 and 2020. Olson opened and closed a 13-0 third-quarter run to give Michigan a 49-39 lead with 3:01 remaining in the frame. She scored nine points during the run, while Washington missed nine straight shots. Michigan scored 24 points off 17 turnovers.

No. 10 Oklahoma rolls past Georgia 70-52 for 8th straight win, setting up rematch with Kentucky

Raegan Beers had 22 points, eight rebounds and three blocks, and No. 10 Oklahoma extended its winning streak to eight games with a 70-52 victory over Georgia on Thursday in the second round of the Southeastern Conference Tournament. Oklahoma's win sets up a rematch Friday with No. 12 Kentucky, which handed the Sooners their most recent loss. That victory proved to be a key tiebreaker, allowing the Wildcats to earn the last remaining double bye in the tournament over the Sooners after the teams finished tied for fourth in conference play. Liz Scott added 11 points and eight rebounds for the Sooners. Trinity Turner led Georgia with 12 points.

Auburn fires Johnnie Harris after early SEC Tournament exit caps 12-18 season

Auburn has fired women's basketball coach Johnnie Harris one day after the Tigers lost to Florida 60-50 in the first round of the Southeastern Conference Tournament. Harris had gone 58-63 in four seasons. Auburn earned its first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2019 last season before slipping to 12-18 overall and 3-13 in SEC competition this year. Auburn's SEC Tournament defeat marked its seventh consecutive loss. The Tigers finished the regular season in a four-way tie for last place in the SEC with Missouri, Texas A&M and Arkansas.

Morgan scores 19, Georgia Tech women use 17-0 run in 4th to top Virginia Tech in ACC tourney

Tonie Morgan scored 19 points, Kara Dunn added 16 and ninth-seeded Georgia Tech used a big run in the fourth quarter to beat eighth-seeded Virginia Tech 72-57 in the second round of the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament. The Yellow Jackets, who avenged a 105-94 double-overtime loss to the Hokies, advance to face top-seeded and seventh-ranked N.C. State in the quarterfinals on Friday. Georgia Tech was up two when Morgan hit a jumper with eight minutes to go, kickstarting a game-breaking 17-0 run. Dunn contributed a pair of 3-pointers before her layup made it 67-48 with 2:47 to play. Virginia Tech missed seven shots. The Yellow Jackets opened the season 15-0 before losing to the Hokies. Rose Micheaux scored 19 points and surpassed 1,000 for her career to lead Virginia Tech .

Olympic refugee boxer Ngamba 'disappointed' to not make pro debut as promoter cites medical issue

Olympic boxing bronze medalist Cindy Ngamba says she is "very disappointed" that she won't make her professional debut Friday after her promoter announced her withdrawal because of a medical issue. The celebrated refugee Olympian was set to face Kirstie Bavington in a super welterweight bout as part of an all-female card headlined by the Natasha Jonas vs. Lauren Price welterweight world title unification fight at Royal Albert Hall. The promotion company Boxxer says Ngamba was pulled "after a pre-fight medical examination revealed an issue requiring further investigation."

Buffalo Bills cut punter Sam Martin in salary cap-saving move, with more expected

The Buffalo Bills released punter Sam Martin in their first offseason move to free up salary cap space before the NFL's new business year opens next week. The 35-year-old Martin had one year left on his contract, and his release saves Buffalo approximately $2 million in salary cap space. The Bills are still projected to be about $8.5 million over the cap, meaning they still have a few more moves to make by either cutting or restructuring contracts to get under the limit.

St. Louis Blues defenseman Colton Parayko is out for 6 weeks after injuring his left knee

St. Louis Blues No. 1 defenseman Colton Parayko is expected to miss the rest of the regular season after injuring his left knee in the team's shootout victory at the Los Angeles Kings. President of hockey operations and general manager Doug Armstrong said Thursday that Parayko will undergo a scope on the injured knee and be evaluated in six weeks. The Blues play their final regular-season game two days short of the six-week mark. The 31-year-old's absence is a blow to St. Louis' hopes of making the playoffs. Parayko plays more ice time than anyone else on the Blues, averaging nearly 24 minutes over 62 games and recording 35 points.

Vikings re-sign safety Theo Jackson to three-year contract, with larger role likely soon coming

The Minnesota Vikings have re-signed safety Theo Jackson to a three-year contract portending a larger role for next season. Jackson's agency, Equity Sports, announced that the deal running through 2027 is worth $12.615 million, with the first two years fully guaranteed at signing. Jackson was eligible to become a restricted free agent next week. He developed into a special teams ace and trusted backup over the last three seasons behind starters Harrison Smith and Cam Bynum. Both of those spots are in flux. Smith at age 36 must decide if he will continue playing. Bynum will be a free agent.

Bears sign special teams contributor Josh Blackwell to 2-year contract extension

The Chicago Bears have signed special teams contributor and cornerback Josh Blackwell to a two-year contract extension. Blackwell has 22 special teams tackles over three years in Chicago. He ended last season on a memorable note, becoming the first Bears player since 2021 to return a punt for a touchdown when he ran one back 94 yards on a trick play in the finale at Green Bay. Blackwell entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with Philadelphia in 2022. He played at Duke from 2017 to 2021.

Man United draws 1-1 at Real Sociedad in Europa League and Tottenham loses to AZ Alkmaar

Manchester United settled for a 1-1 draw with Real Sociedad in the first leg of the Europa League round of 16. United led on Joshua Zirkzee's goal in the 58th minute but the hosts equalized 12 minutes later after Bruno Fernandes' hand ball. Mikel Oyarzabal sent Andre Onana the wrong way from the penalty spot. A spot in the Europa League quarterfinals will be on the line at Old Trafford in the second leg next Thursday. Tottenham, also struggling in the Premier League, lost 1-0 at AZ Alkmaar.

Nebraska makes end of spring game official, announces it will be replaced with skills competitions

Nebraska's spring game will be replaced with skills competitions and 7-on-7 games at Memorial Stadium on April 26. Coach Matt Rhule had said five weeks ago he highly doubted a spring game would be played because of his concerns about other teams scouting players in the scrimmage and possibly poaching them through the transfer portal. The Nebraska spring game dates to the 1920s and has been played annually since 1950.

Garzon scores 18, Ciezki has 17 to lead Indiana women to a 78-62 win over Oregon in Big Ten

Yarden Garzon scored 18 points and Shay Ciezki had 17 as ninth-seeded Indiana topped eighth-seeded Oregon 78-62 in the second round of the Big Ten Tournament. The Hoosiers advance to Friday's quarterfinals against second-ranked and top-seeded USC. Indiana went 11 of 25 from 3-point range, improving to 9-0 when hitting at least eight. Garzon had four and Ciezki three. Peyton Scott had 16 points to lead the Ducks. Oregon had 18 turnovers that were converted into 20 points. Ciezki hit three 3-pointers and scored 11 points in the first quarter as Indiana hit five 3s and led 23-11. The lead stayed in double figures for all but a minute in the second quarter and the Hoosiers led 40-30 at the break.

Serena Sundell scores 19 of her 21 points in the second half and No. 20 Kansas State women beat UCF

Serena Sundell scored 19 of her 21 points in the second half to help No. 20 Kansas State beat UCF 80-65 in the Big 12 Tournament. Kansas State (26-6) equaled its win total from last season, with the 52 wins tied for the third-most over a two-season span in program history. The Wildcats have advanced at least one round in 21 of the previous 28 Big 12 championships. Kansas State will play No. 4 seed and 16th-ranked West Virginia in the quarterfinals. The Wildcats lost 70-57 to the then-No. 17 Mountaineers on Feb. 17. Sundell scored eight straight Kansas State points in the fourth quarter to help the Wildcats hold a double-digit lead for the final 6:54 of the game. Sundell was 5 of 6 from the field in the fourth.

Where Russell Wilson ends up cooking is uncertain

Russell Wilson still has plenty of cooking left to do in the NFL. Where he ends up is a mystery heading into free agency next week. Wilson seemingly had found a home in Pittsburgh until a five-game losing streak to end the season left his future in doubt. He was 6-1 in his first seven starts and finished with 16 touchdowns, five interceptions and a 95.6 passer rating. The Steelers are considering retaining Wilson or Justin Fields, who went 4-2 for them and also will be a free agent. Aaron Rodgers and Sam Darnold also are available veterans for the six teams that don't have a starter.

Linebacker Bobby Wagner is returning to the Commanders on a 1-year contract, AP source says

A person with knowledge of the move tells The Associated Press that six-time All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner is returning to the Washington Commanders. Wagner has agreed on a contract for the 2025 NFL season. He led the Commanders with 132 tackles last regular season and made 25 more during the playoffs on their run to the NFC championship game. Financial terms were not immediately available. Washington re-signed Wagner hours after bringing back kicker Zane Gonzalez on Thursday on a one-year contract for the league minimum $1.17 million.

Realignment has the ACC, Big Ten spanning 4 US time zones. League play meant long trips -- and Ls

The travel miles and losses have piled up for teams in the Atlantic Coast Conference and Big Ten when it comes to cross-country travel created by realignment. Those two leagues span the four contiguous U.S. time zones and have footprints touching the Atlantic and Pacific coastlines with the arrival of former Pac-12 programs. USC, UCLA, Oregon and Washington are in the Big Ten. Stanford and California are in the ACC. Overall, men's and women's teams traveling between the Eastern and Pacific time zones in the ACC and Big Ten had won 30.6% of their games as of Thursday.

Browns restructure Watson's contract to get under the salary cap, AP source says

Deshaun Watson's contract has been reworked again by the Cleveland Browns as the team looks to clear salary cap space with the new league year less than one week away. A person with knowledge of the move tells The Associated Press the latest restructuring of the quarterback's contract will clear nearly $36 million in cap space for the Browns. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the team has not announced the move, which was first reported by ESPN. The Browns were nearly $22 million over the cap before restructuring Watson's deal. It is the second time in three months that Watson's contract was reworked.

Florida QB DJ Lagway 'limited in throwing activities' during spring practice

Florida quarterback DJ Lagway will be "limited in throwing activities" during spring practice. Coach Billy Napier says Lagway also is dealing with a lower-body injury, but he provided few details other than saying the quarterback didn't have any offseason surgery. Napier says "our intentions here are to be very smart." Lagway missed a game last November while recovering from a strained left hamstring he suffered against Georgia. But he started every game after, including Florida's bowl victory against Tulane in December. Lagway completed 60% of his passes for 1,915 yards, with 12 touchdowns and nine interceptions as a freshman last season.

Iyana Moore, Mikayla Blakes combine for 47 points as Vanderbilt beats No. 18 Tennessee women in SEC

Freshman Mikayla Blakes scored 24 points, Iyana Moore had 23 points and four 3-pointers, and Vanderbilt beat No. 18 Tennessee 84-76 in the second round of the SEC Tournament. Vanderbilt beat Tennessee twice in a single season for the first time in series history, including a 71-70 victory on Jan. 19 when Blakes made a putback with 0.8 seconds left. Vanderbilt (22-9) will play No. 1 seed and fifth-ranked South Carolina on Friday in the quarterfinals. Vanderbilt made its first four shots of the fourth quarter, with two apiece from Pierre and Blakes, for a 20-point lead at 71-51. The Commodores struggled down the stretch with seven turnovers and two missed field goals but made 7 of 8 free throws to keep the lead above six points.

Donarski scores 20 and No. 14 North Carolina women reach ACC quarterfinals for 3rd time in 4 years

Lexi Donarski scored 20 points and 14th-ranked North Carolina beat Boston College 78-71 to advance to the ACC Tournament quarterfinals for the third time in four years. North Carolina (26-6), the No. 5 seed, will play No. 4 seed and 22nd-ranked Florida State on Friday. The Seminoles won the first meeting 86-84 on Jan. 26 when Ta'niya Latson scored at the buzzer. North Carolina started the game on an 11-0 run and held the lead until Kennedi Jackson scored with 1:58 left in the third quarter to give Boston College a 51-50 lead. Alyssa Ustby started a 19-3 run that Donarski capped by making a 3-pointer with 1:44 left to give North Carolina a 73-66 lead as Boston College went 1 for 7 from the field.

Paralympics president is 'excited' by support for the Games with a year to go

The president of the International Paralympic Committee says he's encouraged by the level of support for the Paralympics with a year to go until the Winter Games in Italy. IPC President Andrew Parsons is hopeful of building on a trend of increased support for the Winter Paralympics over recent editions. After a transport strike last month disrupted plans to invite local schoolchildren to an Olympic test event in Milan concerns have been raised over the potential impact on the Games themselves. Parsons says he's confident that strikes won't affect the Paralympics.

FIFA to study South American idea for 64-team men's World Cup in 2030 centenary edition

FIFA is looking at a surprise proposal from South American soccer to expand the men's 2030 World Cup to 64 teams. That would double the size of the 2022 edition in Qatar. FIFA says the idea was "spontaneously raised" at an online meeting of its 37-member ruling council on Wednesday. It was suggested by the delegate from Uruguay which was the original World Cup host in 1930. Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay will host one game each at the centenary tournament being mostly co-hosted by Spain, Portugal and Morocco. The first 48-team tournament will be played next year in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Britain's Weston builds huge lead halfway through men's skeleton world championship in Lake Placid

In football, this would be a five-touchdown lead. In basketball, the subs would be in. In boxing, someone might consider throwing a towel. Matt Weston of Britain has a lead of 0.89 seconds at the halfway point of the world skeleton championships, after he cruised through his first two runs on Thursday. He will try to finish off the title with two more runs at Mount Van Hoevenberg on Friday. That lead might not sound like much. But in a sliding sport, where races are often decided by hundredths of a second, it's an eternity. Meanwhile, Kimberley Bos of the Netherlands is the leader at the midpoint of the women's skeleton race.

Red Sox prospects Anthony, Campbell and Mayer headline Spring Breakout rosters

Boston's Roman Anthony, Kristian Campbell and Marcelo Mayer headline the prospects participating in the Spring Breakout from March 13-16. The 30 big league organizations released their rosters for the second year of the Breakout. There will be 16 games at spring training camps in Florida and Arizona. Selected players must have rookie status: no mote than 130 at-bats, 50 innings pitched or 45 days on an active big league roster. Anthony, 20, had an .894 OPS with 18 homers, 65 RBIs and 21 steals in 119 games at Double-A and Triple-A last year.

Devils get Dumoulin, Panthers add Sturm and Golden Knights reacquire Smith as NHL trades pile up

The banged-up New Jersey Devils wasted no time filling an area of need ahead of the NHL trade deadline, the defending champion Florida Panthers made an under-the-radar move that could pave the way for another deep playoff run and the Vegas Golden Knights brought back a member of their recent Stanley Cup-winning team. With roughly 24 hours to go before the deadline, New Jersey traded for veteran defenseman Brian Dumoulin from Anaheim, Florida got depth center Nico Sturm from San Jose and Vegas reacquired winger Reilly Smith from the New York Rangers.

Aaron Rodgers may have to wait until after the NFL draft to find a new team

Aaron Rodgers is a four-time NFL MVP, Super Bowl champion and future first-ballot Hall of Famer. He still may have to wait to until after the draft to find a new team for 2025. The New York Jets already have announced they're releasing the 41-year-old quarterback after two disappointing seasons. Rodgers hasn't said he definitely plans to keep playing, though he recently said he'd like to go to a team that wants him. Several teams still need a starter. Rodgers, Russell Wilson, Sam Darnold and Justin Fields will be the top free agents at the position. Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders are expected to be the top two quarterbacks selected in the draft.

Gil sidelined for at least 3 months, Stanton gets more elbow injections, LeMahieu out a few weeks

Yankees pitcher Luis Gil will be sidelined for at least three months because of his lat strain and designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton would have surgery on his elbows only as a last resort, according to general manager Brian Cashman. Infielder DJ LeMahieu told reporters he has a grade 1 or 2 left calf strain and will be sidelined for several weeks in his fifth straight injury-hampered season. Gil, the reigning AL Rookie of the Year, cut short a bullpen session last Friday because of tightness in his pitching shoulder and the 26-year-old right-hander went to New York for a MRI that revealed a high-grade lat strain.

At the bobsled and skeleton world championships, some moms might make their way to the podium

The latest addition to the list of amenities available to athletes at the bobsled and skeleton world championships is a room inside a lodge just down the hill from the finish line. There are some stuffed animals, tons of toys, Mickey Mouse coloring books and big boxes of crayons. This is the family space. These days, it's a needed part of the sliding circuit. There are five mothers who qualified to compete in the world championships that got underway Thursday in Lake Placid. They are U.S. skeleton athlete Kelly Curtis, Swiss bobsledder Nadja Pasternack and U.S. bobsledders Elana Meyers Taylor, Kaillie Humphries and Jasmine Jones.

AP mock NFL draft: Giants trade up to take Cam Ward No. 1 and Raiders move up for Shedeur Sanders

Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders will be the first two quarterbacks selected in next month's NFL draft. Where they go is still uncertain. The Titans, Browns and Giants each need a quarterback and they have the first three picks. But Ward and Sanders aren't certain to go 1-2 like Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels in 2024. Edge rusher Abdul Carter and two-way star Travis Hunter are higher-rated prospects and there's no consensus on the No. 1 overall pick. The first edition of the AP's 2025 mock draft says Ward and Sanders will go 1-2 after two teams make blockbuster moves to trade up.

Los Angeles Rams will keep receiver Tutu Atwell on a 1-year, $10 million deal, AP source says

Receiver Tutu Atwell has agreed to return to the Los Angeles Rams on a one-year deal for $10 million, according to a person with knowledge of the deal. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the Rams were still completing the deal to keep Atwell under contract for a somewhat surprising fifth season. Atwell has 99 receptions for 1,343 yards and four touchdowns in his four years with the Rams, who drafted him out of Louisville. He had career highs of 42 catches for 562 yards last season despite playing just 39% of Los Angeles' offensive snaps.

Paige Bueckers wins Big East Player of the Year for third time as UConn sweeps major awards

Paige Bueckers won Big East Player of the Year for the third time, leading a sweep of the conference's major awards Thursday. The third-ranked Huskies went 18-0 in the Big East and Bueckers averaged 18.6 points, 5.0 assists and 4.5 rebounds to lead the way. Bueckers is the third player in conference history to win the award three times, also claiming the honor as a freshman and last season. She joined Villanova's Shelley Pennefather and UConn's Maya Moore as the only players to do it three times. Sarah Strong earned the conference's freshman of the year award after averaging 16.1 points and 7.9 rebounds for the Huskies.

Jaguars center Mitch Morse announces his retirement after 10 seasons and nearly 100 wins

Jacksonville Jaguars center Mitch Morse is retiring after 10 seasons and nearly a hundred wins. Most of those came with Kansas City and Buffalo. The 32-year-old Morse had one year remaining on a $10.5 million contract he signed a year ago in free agency. He would have counted $5.4 million against Jacksonville's salary cap in 2025. The Chiefs drafted Morse in the second round in 2015. He spent four seasons in Kansas City and five in Buffalo before landing in Jacksonville. He said wanting to play again for one of his former coaches, Doug Pederson, was a main reason he signed with the Jaguars.

Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano bring trilogy women's boxing bout to MSG, site of the original

Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano will fight for a third time, returning to Madison Square Garden after staging the first women's boxing match to headline the arena in the opener of their trilogy. The bout for Taylor's undisputed super lightweight championship will take place July 11 and stream on Netflix, Most Valuable Promotions announced Thursday. Taylor (24-1, 6 KOs) has edged Serrano (47-3-1, 31 KOs) in both of their fights, starting with her victory by split decision on April 30, 2022, in New York. She won a unanimous decision last November on the undercard of Jake Paul's victory over Mike Tyson.

Sports on TV for Friday, March 7

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Neymar recalled by Brazil for World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina

Former captain Neymar has been recalled by Brazil after an absence of almost 1 1/2 years. The 33-year-old striker has been included in the national squad by coach Dorival Junior on Thursday for World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina this month. Neymar recently returned to action with Santos after an ACL injury in October 2023. He left Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal in January and signed a six-month contract with his boyhood club. Brazil is fifth in South American qualifying.

Coverage of the future of amateurism in college sports wins AP story of the year honors

Associated Press Sports Writer Eddie Pells won Story of the Year honors in the annual contest for AP staffers judged by the Associated Press Editors for his look at the state of amateurism in college sports. Pells also won the award for Deadline Writing. AP staffers John Leicester and Hanna Arhirova, working with several AP staffers, captured the Package of the Year award for their work on the Ukraine Olympics project. AP photographer Francisco Seco won Best Portfolio for his collection of work, including Paris Olympics gymnastics action.

One-of-a-kind card featuring jersey patch of Pirates star Paul Skenes is heading to auction

A one-of-a-kind baseball card featuring Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes is heading to auction. The card is autographed by the National League Rookie of the Year and features a patch of the jersey he wore during his big league debut in May 2024. An 11-year-old in the Los Angeles area found the card in a pack he received as a Christmas present. He turned down an offer from the Pirates that included season tickets behind home plate for 30 years. Fanatics Collect is holding the auction, which runs through March 20. CEO Nick Bell declined to offer an estimate on what the card might fetch but said he expects "a very significant sale."

New trial sought for convicted ex-Spanish soccer boss Rubiales over World Cup kiss

Prosecutors are asking for the retrial of former Spanish soccer president Luis Rubiales, saying the judge incorrectly kept some evidence from the court. Rubiales was found guilty of sexual assault and fined more than 10,000 euros for the unconsented kiss on player Jenni Hermoso after the 2023 Women's World Cup final. He and three other defendants were cleared of the coercion charges they faced for allegedly trying to convince Hermoso to downplay the kiss that sparked outrage in Spain and marred the celebrations of its first Women's World Cup trophy.

4 news organizations win 'Grand Slam' awards in Associated Press Sports Editors contest

The Boston Globe, The Minnesota Star Tribune, The Washington Post and the Lincoln Journal-Star of Nebraska earned "Grand Slam" honors in the annual Associated Press Sports Editors Contest. The categories for Grand Slam recognition reflected the best print and digital work: a print portfolio combining weekday and Sunday sections; event coverage over a 48-hour span; project reporting; and digital content/presentation. The APSE contest – voted on by sports editors, writers and other journalists during judging in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, in late February and remotely from across the nation – honored the best sports journalism of 2024. In all, 178 organizations from across the United States entered the contest.

Rangers fan dies in Istanbul ahead of Europa League match against Fenerbahce

A Rangers fan has died in Istanbul ahead of the Scottish club's Europa League match against Fenerbahce. Rangers announced the death Thursday saying the unnamed fan died in a road traffic accident overnight. The club says it's "in constant contact with both the Turkish and British authorities over this tragic incident." Rangers plays Fenerbahce in the first leg of its round of 16 tie at Sukru Saracoglu Stadium. Fenerbahce called the news "heartbreaking" and offered its condolences.

Performance coach touted by NFL star AJ Brown has a book deal

The performance coach whose self-published "Inner Excellence" received a public boost from NFL wide receiver A.J. Brown has a book deal. Grand Central Publishing Group says it will re-release Jim Murphy's surprise bestseller and has acquired his self-published "The Best Possible Life." The new edition of "Inner Excellence" will come out this spring, and "The Best Possible Life" is scheduled for Sept. 30. Grand Central also plans an "Inner Excellence" workbook. Brown, a star receiver for the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles, was seen flipping through "Inner Excellence" while on the sidelines during a playoff game in January.

Ayaka Furue, A Lim Kim and Auston Kim atop leaderboard at China LPGA event

Ayaka Furue, A Lim Kim and Auston Kim are atop the leaderboard at the LPGA's Blue Bay tournament in China with opening round scores of 4-under 68. World No. 2 Jeeno Thitikul is a shot back in a group with seven other players on China's southern island of Hainan on Thursday. No. 4-ranked Ruoning Yin has carded a par 72 in front of home fans.

Ntamack and Penaud return to France team to face Ireland in Six Nations blockbuster

Romain Ntamack returns at flyhalf and Damian Penaud is restored on the right wing for the Six Nations match against Ireland on Saturday. Ntamack was red-carded in the opening 43-0 win against Wales after he shoulder-charged the head of opposite Ben Thomas. He missed the agonizing defeat against England and the 11-try dismantling of Italy. Penaud was axed from France's team to play Italy after a rare poor performance against England. The round-four showdown in Dublin will likely decide the fate of the Six Nations title. Ireland has won its three games so far and is looking for an unprecedented third straight outright title.

Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer suffers calf tear while celebrating goal

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is set for a spell watching from the sidelines after he was injured while celebrating a goal during Wednesday's Champions League win over Bayer Leverkusen. Bayern says the 38-year-old Neuer tore a muscle fiber in his right calf and "will be out for the time being." Neuer had to go off in the 58th minute of Bayern's 3-0 win in the first leg of the Champions League last 16 tie. He had just tried celebrating Jamal Musiala's goal when he pulled up in discomfort. Teammate Joshua Kimmich joked, "He'd already said he was getting old."

This wild ancient version of soccer has rules like 'no murder' and is still being played today

It's described as one of the earliest forms of soccer with one ancient rule telling players not to murder each other. Every year thousands of people descend on a small town in the English countryside to watch a two-day game of mass street football that, to the casual observer, could be mistaken for a riot. This is Royal Shrovetide, a centuries-old ball game played in Ashbourne, Derbyshire. It looks nothing like the world's most popular sport. Played between two teams of hundreds of players, the aim is to "goal" at either end of a three-mile sector that could take the match through rivers, hedgerows, high streets and just about anything except churchyards, cemeteries and places of worship.

Lyon coach Paulo Fonseca banned 9 months from French games for confronting referee

Lyon coach Paulo Fonseca has been banned from the touchline at games for nine months for aggressively confronting the referee at a French league game. The French league disciplinary ruling also bans Fonseca from the locker room and access to players at games until Sept. 15. The ban applies just to domestic games. Fonseca can work on Thursday in the UEFA-organized Europa League. Lyon plays a first-leg game of the round of 16 in Romania against FCSB. Fonseca angrily confronted referee Benoît Millot on Sunday about a potential penalty for Brest deep in stoppage time as Lyon led 2-1.

Boise State plays Colorado State, seeks 8th straight home win

Boise State heads into a matchup against Colorado State after winning seven straight home games. Friday's game is the second meeting of the season between the two teams. The Rams won the last matchup 75-72. Boise State is 14-5 against the MWC, and Colorado State is 15-4 against conference opponents.

Seattle U plays Southern Utah, aims to stop home skid

Seattle U enters a matchup with Southern Utah as losers of eight straight home games. The teams play Thursday for the first time this season. Seattle U is 0-14 against the WAC, and Southern Utah is 6-9 against conference opponents.

Grand Canyon takes on Utah Tech after San Antonio's 21-point game

Grand Canyon faces the Utah Tech Trailblazers after Trinity San Antonio scored 21 points in the Antelopes' 82-52 win against the Seattle U Redhawks. Thursday's meeting is the first this season between the two squads. Utah Tech is 1-13 against the WAC, and Grand Canyon is 14-0 against conference opponents.

Utah Tech faces Grand Canyon on 12-game slide

Utah Tech aims to break its 12-game skid with a win against Grand Canyon. Thursday's game will be the second meeting this season between the two teams. The Antelopes won the previous matchup 79-66. Grand Canyon is 12-2 against the WAC, and Utah Tech is 2-12 against conference opponents.

Seattle U plays Southern Utah on 6-game road skid

Seattle U aims to stop its six-game road skid with a win over Southern Utah. Thursday's meeting will be the second of the season between the two teams. Southern Utah is 4-11 against the WAC, and Seattle U is 6-8 against conference opponents.

Abilene Christian takes on Utah Valley following Earle's 22-point game

Abilene Christian takes on the Utah Valley Wolverines after Bella Earle scored 22 points in the Wildcats' 81-74 win over the UT Arlington Mavericks. Thursday's meeting is the first of the season for the squads. Utah Valley is 8-6 against the WAC, and Abilene Christian is 8-6 against conference opponents.

Utah Utes and Texas Tech Red Raiders square off in Big 12 Tournament

The Utah Utes and Texas Tech Red Raiders play in the Big 12 Tournament. Thursday's meeting is the first of the season between the two squads. Utah is 13-5 against the Big 12, and Texas Tech is 5-14 against the Big 12.

Harden has 24th 50-point game, 1 shy of Kobe Bryant for 3rd all-time, as Obama watches

carried Los Angeles to a 123-115 victory over the Detroit Pistons. Wilt Chamberlain has the NBA record with 118 games of 50 or more points, followed by Michael Jordan with 31 and Bryant with 25.

Soucy's 2nd-period goal stands up as the winner in Canucks 3-2 win over Ducks

Carson Soucy scored the winner as the Vancouver Canucks downed the Anaheim Ducks 3-2. Jake DeBrusk put away his team-leading 22nd goal of the season for the Canucks on a second-period power play. Teddy Blueger followed with a goal and Filip Hronek contributed a pair of assists. Kevin Lankinen stopped 14 shots for Vancouver. The Ducks lost starting netminder John Gibson midway through the second period after he suffered an apparent injury in a collision with Canucks winger Drew O'Connor. Gibson stopped 19 of the 21 shots he faced before leaving and Lukas Dostal made 14 saves in relief.

Utah visits Toronto on 10-game road skid

Utah comes into a matchup with Toronto after losing 10 straight road games. Friday's matchup is the first this season for the teams. Toronto is 13-19 at home, and Utah is 7-23 on the road.