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ESPN’s Dick Vitale has endured three bouts with cancer over the past two years, keeping the legendary college basketball broadcaster off television for much of that stretch. In December, Vitale announced that he is cancer-free and intends to make another comeback.

He continues to rest his vocal cords, which recently required surgery due to affects of the radiation treatments he received for cancer.

“It will take more time before I get the strength back in my voice,” Vitale told USA TODAY via text. “The 35 radiation treatments I had for my vocal cord cancer wiped out the cancer but created some problems to my vocal cords.”

Dick Vitale, ESPN’s legendary voice for college basketball, intends to return to broadcasting next season after undergoing vocal cord surgery.

Jack Gruber/USA TODAY Network

If recovery goes according to plan, Vitale is shooting for a return to the microphone for the 2024–25 season.

“I miss so much the entire college spirit at the games as I always love being able to share time with the players, coaches, fans, media and especially my ESPN colleagues,” he said.

Vitale was previously treated for melanoma and lymphoma, both in ’21. He also has gone through a rash of vocal cord issues, including surgery for dysplasia that same year. He missed time calling games during the 2021–22 season but returned to ESPN the following season before missing 2023–24. 

If the title of his new book, written with sportswriter Scott Gleeson, is any indication, Vitale has no intention of letting health challenges end his broadcasting career before he’s absolutely ready.

The new book is titled Until My Last Breath: Fighting Cancer With My Young Heroes, and it touches on Vitale’s experience in dealing with cancer alongside a group of children that he calls his “All-Courageous Team.”

Amid the steady rise of betting in the NBA, Cleveland Cavaliers coach J.B. Bickerstaff issued a warning about the dark side of sports gambling on Wednesday.

Bickerstaff, who is in his fourth season with the Cavaliers, noted that sports betting brings “added pressure” to the game and makes his job—and that of everyone on the court—more difficult.

“It brings added pressure,” Bickerstaff said in a Wednesday press conference before the Cavaliers—Heat game. “It brings a distraction to the game… A lot of times the people who are gambling, like, this money pays their light bill or pays their rent, and then the emotions that come from that. So I do think we’re walking a very fine line and we have to be extremely careful in protecting everybody who’s involved.”

#Cavs head coach J.B. Bickerstaff makes a startling revelation in explaining why he feels sports gambling has already gone too far even though he understands the business reasons behind it now being embraced by professional leagues. pic.twitter.com/O5QX6snjuE

— Daryl Ruiter (@RuiterWrongFAN) March 20, 2024

Cleveland opened a Caesars Sportsbook in Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse in January 2023, making the Cavaliers one of three NBA teams to have a sportsbook within their home arena.

The Cavs coach revealed that his family was personally impacted by sports gambling last season, when he received threats from gamblers that were so malicious he reported them to the league. The aggressor was caught, but Bickerstaff declined to press charges.

Bickerstaff said, “They got my telephone number and were sending me crazy messages about where I live and my kids and all that stuff. So it is a dangerous game and a fine line that we’re walking for sure.”

Bickerstaff’s comments come on the heels of the league’s recently announced plan to infuse betting into live games on NBA League Pass, allowing users to track live betting odds and make wagers through the league’s betting partners.

From one NBA coach’s perspective, though, sports gambling has already “crossed the line.”

“The amount of times where I’m standing up there and we may have a 10-point lead and the spread is 11 and people are yelling at me to leave the guys in so that we can cover the spread, it’s ridiculous,” continued Bickerstaff. “I understand the business side of it and the nature of the business. But it is something that I believe has gone too far.”

Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto was one of the most prized acquisitions of the offseason across all of Major League Baseball. 

A number of teams lined up for the services of the 25-year-old righty, who logged a 1.82 ERA in seven seasons in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball league. Ultimately, the Dodgers added Yamamoto on a 12-year, $325 million contract to add firepower to the top of the rotation.

But Yamamoto’s first major league start could not have gone much worse Thursday in Seoul, South Korea. He lasted just one inning, allowing five earned runs on four hits, while walking one and striking out two. The Dodgers found themselves in a 5–0 hole against the San Diego Padres at that point, and he was pulled from the game after 43 pitches. 

The avalanche started when Yamamoto gave up a two-run triple to Jake Cronenworth. Then Padres designated hitter Manny Machado drew a walk, and shortstop Ha-Seong Kim subsequently hit a sacrifice fly to make it 3–0 Padres.

Yamamoto struck out Jurickson Profar but then gave up an RBI double to Luis Campusano. Third baseman Tyler Wade then came to the plate and hit an RBI single to score San Diego’s fifth run of the inning. Yamamoto finally stopped the bleeding with a strikeout of rookie outfielder Jackson Merrill.

Baseball fans and pundits across social media reacted to the disastrous MLB debut by Yamamoto. Here are some of the best posts:

The start of Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s major league career …

single
hit by pitch
triple
walk
sac fly
wild pitch
strikeout
double
single
strikeout

In one inning, he was charged with 23% of the earned runs he allowed in 171 innings in Japan last year.

— Alden González (@Alden_Gonzalez) March 21, 2024

"Yamamoto is on his way out, looking toward the heavens. We can only ask -- or wonder -- that he is asking some departed relative for forgiveness for this atrocious performance." - Bob Costas, somewhere. pic.twitter.com/OXKVcarg7l

— Chad Moriyama (@ChadMoriyama) March 21, 2024

Ohtani gives Yamamoto some encouragement after his rough first inning pic.twitter.com/hGFc94qKhg

— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) March 21, 2024

I’ve got Yamamoto at a crisp 45.00 ERA currently thru one inning of work. Something to build on

— Eric Hubbs (@BarstoolHubbs) March 21, 2024

This start obviously does not represent Yamamoto’s talent.

But I won’t make excuses for him. He signed up for the bright lights when he chose the Dodgers.

He needs to settle down and let his true talent shine. I’m very confident he will. Tonight is not his night.

— Yakyu Cosmopolitan (@yakyucosmo) March 21, 2024

Yankee and Mets fans after hearing about yamamoto pic.twitter.com/IqjDqaylTh

— matthew🇦🇷🇩🇴🗽 (@batistanem416) March 21, 2024

Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s MLB debut is over after just 1 inning pic.twitter.com/FEA24nG6f5

— Just Baseball (@JustBB_Media) March 21, 2024

Yoshinobu Yamamoto gets rocked in his very first inning

All other 29 MLB fan bases: pic.twitter.com/1Y9UnLD9Op

— Mike Salvatore (@MikeSalvatore10) March 21, 2024

Yamamoto’s first start:

1 IP
5 H
5 ER
1 BB pic.twitter.com/m4Tq0N6ywN

— NY SPORTS DESERVE BETTER (@TheBigDiesel2) March 21, 2024

We're all going to be laughing at this when Yamamoto pulls it together & has a great season pic.twitter.com/85KQ05wv48

— Ari Tata🌙 (IT'S SHO-TIME) (@Ariichiiyoko) March 21, 2024

Yoshinobu Yamamoto's Pitch Locations today. pic.twitter.com/Yi9Yu7iaI0

— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) March 21, 2024

Blake Snell, the reigning National League Cy Young Award winner, signed a two-year, $62 million deal with the San Francisco Giants on Monday. His odds to repeat as NL Cy Young opened at +2200 before moving to +1800, behind Tyler Glasnow (+1400) and ahead of Aaron Nola (+2200).

Snell led the majors with a 2.25 ERA last season and finished with a 14-9 record.

Orlando Ramirez/USA TODAY Sports

Despite his move to the Giants from the San Diego Padres, Snell still holds the eighth-best odds on the board. Snell's impressive performance last season, with a 2.25 ERA, earned him his second Cy Young award (his first came in 2018 with the Tampa Bay Rays of the American League). This history of success suggests there could be significant value in betting on Snell to go back-to-back.

The favorite for the award is Braves pitcher Spencer Strider. Despite leading the league in strikeouts and wins last season, Strider was not even one of the three finalists for the award in 2023. However, it seems Vegas is looking at Strider much more favorably this year. The Braves righty is already setting more records this season, making five scoreless starts for the Braves in spring training -- tying a record set by Clayton Kershaw and Justin Verlander. Should he throw one more start this spring without ceding a run, he will make more history.

Strider has 29 strikeouts in his 18 ⅔ innings pitched in Grapefruit League play. He’s also added a new curveball this season.

The Braves have the second-best odds to win the World Series (+450), and at a nearly 5-to-1 payout, this bet looks solid.

The next-best odds belong to Phillies righty Zack Wheeler (+800), who just signed a fresh three-year deal with Philadelphia. He finished second in Cy Young voting in 2021 and has yet to take home his first award.

Logan Webb's odds are the third-best at +950. Webb finished second in the 2023 Cy Young voting behind new teammate Snell.

Here are the current NL Cy Young odds leaders:

Spencer Strider +450
Zack Wheeler +800
Logan Webb +950
Yoshinobu Yamamoto +1000
Zac Gallen +1200
Max Fried +1300
Tyler Glasnow +1400
Blake Snell +1800
Justin Steele +2000
Aaron Nola +2200
Dylan Cease +2500
Jesus Luzardo +3000
Freddy Peralta +3000
Bobby Miller +3500
Chris Sale +3500
Mitch Keller +3500

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call the National Council for Problem Gambling 1-800-522-4700. The Arena Media Brands, LLC and its partners may receive compensation for links to products and services on this website.

The Los Angeles Clippers were able to roll over the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday night, but one odd moment from their victory had everyone on social media wondering what the heck James Harden was trying to do. 

In case you missed it, Harden passed the ball to Kawhi Leonard in the corner during the third quarter and then jumped out to contest his teammate’s shot.

For real. 

Leonard got the shot off but missed on his attempt. This all happened while the Clippers were up 21 points and cruising over the Trail Blazers, but it was just wild to see. 

Check it out: 

I’m not kidding when I tell you James Harden contesting HIS OWN TEAMMATES SHOT is funniest thing I’ve ever seen happen on a basketball court 😭 pic.twitter.com/HINDl01Ivi

— Oluwajomiloju (@JomiAdeniran) March 21, 2024

After the game Harden explained what he was thinking on that play: 

James Harden said he was trying to lighten the mood and get the Clippers out of the fog they’ve been in lately when asked about how he closed out on a Kawhi 3-point attempt when they were up by 21. pic.twitter.com/Y9XOBeXRos

— Ohm Youngmisuk (@NotoriousOHM) March 21, 2024

Uh, O.K. Sure. 

Fans had reactions to Harden’s move: 

what on earth james harden https://t.co/k42Jzwlqz3

— Nathan Deal (@NattyD13) March 21, 2024

Aye man whats really going on? I’m literally crying over here😭🤣 https://t.co/uW0fftsJyL

— Jordan Loyd (@mrjloyd) March 21, 2024

One of the funniest things I’ve seen https://t.co/jVRaFzgo1e

— jer (@notanotherjer) March 21, 2024

Harden beatin the no defense allegations one contested shot on a teammate at a time. https://t.co/diWDEAlvce

— v (@beenvics) March 21, 2024

This is up there as the most unserious nba moments 🤣🤣🤣 https://t.co/jYVvbaa4eI

— OkcthunderMuse (@okcthundermuse_) March 21, 2024

Many NFL teams improved after the first wave of free agency and they did it in a variety of ways.

For example, the Chicago Bears traded players and spent money on top free agents. They even traded away one of their best players to make room for an intriguing quarterback from USC. Well, that’s what everyone is assuming, at least. And that player the Bears traded made the Pittsburgh Steelers stronger.

Many teams made moves with the 2024 NFL draft in mind, while others went all in on veterans with the hopes of becoming Super Bowl contenders. The Houston Texans are one of those teams, becoming a trendy pick to possibly upset the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC.

The Titans, Falcons and Raiders were among the teams that improved the most during the first wave of free agency with the additions of Ridley, Cousins and Wilkins.

Steve Roberts/USA TODAY Sports (left); Jamie Sabau/USA TODAY Sports (center); Jasen Vinlove/USA TODAY Sports (right)

Here are the eight teams that improved the most after the first week of NFL free agency. Remember, most improved teams, not the best teams.

8. Pittsburgh Steelers

Notable additions: S DeShon Elliott, QB Justin Fields, CB Donte Jackson, WR Van Jefferson, LB Patrick Queen, QB Russell Wilson

I wanted to rank the Steelers much higher because they got better at the most important position, but there are unknowns with the arrivals of Wilson and Fields. Wilson will reportedly start the offseason workouts and training camp as QB1, which seems like a mistake after two subpar seasons with the Broncos. Fields offers the most upside, but he hasn’t been as consistent a passer as Wilson. If Fields finds consistency and wins the job over Wilson, perhaps this No. 8 ranking will look silly later this year.

There are also unknowns with Queen, the former 2020 first-round pick coming off a breakout season after three quiet seasons to start his career with the Ravens. Queen improved once Roquan Smith and former defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald arrived in Baltimore. Time will tell if Queen can be the top inside linebacker on a team and play up to his three-year, $41 million contract. He could succeed playing behind edge rushers T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith.

Pittsburgh found a starting cornerback opposite Joey Porter Jr. after trading wide receiver Diontae Johnson to the Panthers for Jackson, who has started 76 games in his six-year career.

7. Tennessee Titans Tennessee added a versatile playmaker in Pollard after agreeing to a three-year, $24 million deal.

Tim Heitman/USA TODAY Sports

Notable additions: CB Chidobe Awuzie, C Lloyd Cushenberry, LB Kenneth Murray, RB Tony Pollard, WR Calvin Ridley, QB Mason Rudolph

For starters, I’m not a fan of the lucrative long-term contract the Titans agreed to with Ridley (four years, $92 million), but his arrival made the Titans better in the short term. Ridley will be tough to keep tabs on for opposing defenses if DeAndre Hopkins continues to play at a high level. Ridley also fills a need because 2022 first-round pick Treylon Burks hasn’t found his footing in the NFL. There were other options for adding wide receiver depth, but that’s a different story. Ridley’s arrival should help second-year quarterback Will Levis, too.

There’s also a case to be made that the Titans overpaid for Cushenberry (four years, $50 million), but he was the top center on the market, and it’s never a bad idea to splurge on rugged offensive linemen. Tennessee added a versatile playmaker in Pollard after agreeing to a three-year, $24 million deal, which was more than the two-year, $16 million contract Derrick Henry got from the Baltimore Ravens. But Pollard is four years younger than the 30-year-old Henry and offers more as a pass catcher.

The arrivals of Pollard, Cushenberry and Ridley gives new coach Brian Callahan plenty to work with. He’s set up well to form a dynamic offensive scheme for Levis.

6. Washington Commanders

Notable additions: RB Austin Ekeler, OG Nick Allegretti, Edge Dorance Armstrong, C Tyler Biadasz, S Jeremy Chinn, Edge Clelin Ferrell, LB Frankie Luvu, QB Marcus Mariota, LB Bobby Wagner

The teams that make the most noise in free agency often regret the spring shopping spree come fall. Perhaps the Commanders have found the right formula for spending in free agency after many of their signings went unnoticed.

The additions of Armstrong and Luvu are two of many smart, savvy signings the Commanders had last week. Their presence will help one of the worst defenses in the league, and it didn’t require the team to overspend on the open market. Armstrong, the former underrated Cowboys edge rusher, agreed to a three-year, $45 million contract. Luvu, the former versatile playmaker of the Panthers, agreed to a three-year, $36 million contract.

Washington also added Farrell, Wagner and Chinn on one-year deals. New coach Dan Quinn now has the talent to improve the defense without the team having to make long-term commitments. The incoming rookie quarterback—the Commanders have the No. 2 pick in the draft—could have a decent surrounding with the arrivals of Ekeler, Allegretti and Biadasz.

5. New York Giants New York could have one of the best defensive fronts in the league, with edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux, defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence and Burns.

Morgan Tencza/USA TODAY Sports

Notable additions: Edge Brian Burns, OL Jermaine Eluemunor, QB Drew Lock, WR Isaiah McKenzie, OG Jon Runyan, RB Devin Singletary, OG Aaron Stinnie

Some might not be happy with the Giants being ranked this high because their skill-position group could be the worst in the NFL, which is nothing new for New York in the Daniel Jones era. But this year, the Giants won’t have Saquon Barkley and could regret not paying him before he bolted to the Philadelphia Eagles.

So, yes, the Giants have plenty of unfinished business offensively—they have the No. 6 pick to possibly select a talented wide receiver in next month’s draft. But Jones—if he’s the starter this upcoming season—finally has a quality offensive line after the team added Runyan and Stinnie to possibly take over as the starting guards. Last year, the team neglected the guard position and the results were disastrous. The Giants appear to have learned their lesson the hard way, and even added an insurance plan in case right tackle Evan Neal struggles again. Eluemunor started at right tackle for the Raiders last season and has plenty of experience playing at guard.

The Giants’ biggest acquisition last week was the trade for Burns, who immediately agreed to a five-year, $150 contract. New York could have one of the best defensive fronts in the league, with edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux, defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence and Burns.

Now if the Giants can land either Malik Nabers or Rome Odunze in the draft to go with their revamped offensive line and defensive line, perhaps they could be a sleeper postseason squad.

4. Las Vegas Raiders

Notable additions: RB Alexander Mattison, QB Gardner Minshew, IDL Christian Wilkins

The Las Vegas Raiders don’t have a laundry list of newcomers, which is a testament to how much the team has improved in the past year with coach Antonio Pierce and defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. The Silver & Black wisely provided help for Maxx Crosby with the splash signing of Wilkins, one of the top free agents on the market this year. Don’t be surprised if the Raiders are atop most defensive categories in 2024.

Las Vegas also got better at quarterback, going from Jimmy Garoppolo and Aidan O’Connell last season to Minshew, who was a fourth-down conversion away from guiding the Indianapolis Colts in the postseason in 2023. Minshew isn’t a long-term answer at quarterback, but he could immediately help an offense that features Davante Adams, Michael Mayer, Zamir White and Mattison. The Raiders’ offseason, however, would look much better if they pair Minshew with a rookie quarterback such as Michael Penix Jr. or Bo Nix.

3. Houston Texans Mixon had a bounce-back 2023 season, rushing for more than 1,000 yards for the first time since ’21.

Katie Stratman/USA TODAY Sports

Notable additions: LB Azeez Al-Shaair, DL Denico Autry, DT Folorunso Fatukasi, Edge Danielle Hunter, RB Joe Mixon, CB Jeff Okudah, DL Tim Settle

The Texans revamped their defensive front with experienced playmakers, including Hunter, one of the best edge rushers in the game. Hunter and Will Anderson Jr., the reigning Defensive Rookie of the Year, could form a dominant pass-rushing tandem in 2024. They might see plenty of favorable matchups, with Houston adding Al-Shaair and Autry, taking two top players from its rivals, the Tennessee Titans.

On paper, DeMeco Ryans’s defense improved with these free-agency acquisitions, but they also got older after saying goodbye to Jonathan Greenard, Blake Cashman and Sheldon Rankins. The Texans, however, needed more experienced playmakers because they already have plenty of youth, with Anderson, Jalen Pitre, Derek Stingley Jr. and Christian Harris all 24 or younger. The Texans’ defense could take steps forward this season after adding many players who fit Ryans’s scheme.

The offense also improved after the Texans landed Mixon in a trade with the Cincinnati Bengals. Mixon had a bounce-back 2023 season, recording more than 1,000 rushing yards for the first time since ’21. C.J. Stroud could have a consistent running game, something he didn’t have during his rookie season.

2. Chicago Bears

Notable additions: WR Keenan Allen, OL Ryan Bates, S Kevin Byard, TE Gerald Everett, S Jonathan Owens, OL Coleman Shelton, RB D’Andre Swift

The Bears have a hole at quarterback after trading Fields to the Steelers. But we’ll make an exception here, because it’s obvious Caleb Williams will be landing in Chicago in about a month, and it appears he’ll be walking into an appealing situation based on the moves the Bears made, starting with the trade for Allen.

Williams—again, assuming he’ll be the top pick—will have many reliable targets, with the pass-catching group of Allen, DJ Moore and Cole Kmet. Allen’s presence was instrumental in helping Justin Herbert win Offensive Rookie of the Year with the Chargers in 2020. The Bears also added Swift and Everett, two versatile playmakers who can contribute in the passing game. And they didn’t ignore the trenches, signing Shelton. With how well the defense played last season, the Bears could be on the rise if the new offensive pieces come together quickly.

1. Atlanta Falcons Cousins will have more pieces to work with after the Falcons signed Mooney.

Mike Dinovo/USA TODAY Sports

Notable additions: QB Kirk Cousins, WR Ray-Ray McCloud III, WR Darnell Mooney, WR Rondale Moore, TE Charlie Woerner

The Falcons are the most improved team after the first wave of free agency because they added the best available quarterback to an already impressive roster. Cousins could quickly turn the Falcons into a high scoring offense because of his strong skill-position group featuring Bijan Robinson, Drake London and Kyle Pitts. Cousins might not have a Justin Jefferson in Atlanta, but he could spread the ball around, with the depth the team added after he committed to a four-year, $180 million contract.

New offensive coordinator Zac Robinson will have many pieces to work with after the Falcons added Mooney, Moore and McCloud. Last season, the Falcons had one of the worst receiving corps behind London and it didn’t help that former coach Arthur Smith failed to get Pitts involved. Now Atlanta has the quarterback, weapons and new coaching staff to match what the Falcons’ defense did last season, a unit that could do better with the arrival of coach Raheem Morris. The new-look Falcons are the favorites to win the NFC South this season. 

March Madness is finally upon us and on paper, the NCAA women’s tournament is primed for quite a bit of drama. 

South Carolina leads the Albany 1 region as the No. 1 seed, with the Iowa Hawkeyes taking the top spot in the Albany 2 region. But it won’t be an easy road for Caitlin Clark & Co., who could come up against the defending champion LSU Tigers, and a pair of battle-tested Pac-12 teams in the Colorado Buffaloes and UCLA Bruins if the Hawkeyes want to return to the Final Four.

In the Portland regions, the USC Trojans and the Texas Longhorns are the No. 1 seeds and both are poised to make deep runs, but the No. 2 seeds Stanford Cardinal and Ohio State Buckeyes won’t make that simple. And don’t forget the three-seed UConn Huskies. This squad has been hit with quite the injury bug this season, including a season-ending ACL tear for Azzi Fudd. Despite a depleted lineup, seniors Paige Bueckers and Aaliyah Edwards have shined with the added pressure and both have plenty of experience with deep runs in the tournament (Final Four in 2021 and title game in ’22). 

[ March Madness: Latest News & Analysis | How to Watch ]

So who will come away victorious? While much of the national spotlight has shone on the Hawkeyes and Clark as she broke record after record this season, our writers and editors are all eyeing a different—though familiar—team to win it all. 

Emma Baccellieri Click here to see full-size image of bracket.

Baccellieri’s 2024 champion: South Carolina. I spent quite a bit of time mulling it over: Is there any way to justify picking against South Carolina? And I don’t believe there is. This squad is simply too deep, too talented, too good to take anyone else, in my book.

Clare Brennan Click here to see full-size image of bracket. 

Brennan’s 2024 champion: South Carolina. The Gamecocks are undefeated for a reason. They are stacked with talent (headlined by Kamilla Cardoso), they’re deep and they have a seasoned coach in Dawn Staley. On top of all that, this year’s squad is not as easy to game plan against as last year’s team revealed itself to be. Expect Staley & Co. to be cutting down the nets when all is said and done.

Elizabeth Swinton Click here to see full-size image of bracket.

Swinton’s 2024 champion: South Carolina. The Gamecocks have some tough competition waiting on the other side of the bracket if they reach the title game, including LSU, which they recently defeated amid tension in the SEC title game, and Iowa, which knocked them out of the tournament last year behind Clark’s 41 points. South Carolina will have to be disciplined to get to that point, but it has the power on both ends to become the first NCAA women’s basketball team to go undefeated since the 2015–16 UConn squad and grab a second championship in three years. 

Claire Kuwana Click here to see full-size image of bracket.

Kuwana’s 2024 champion: South Carolina. It only feels right that this season of college basketball will end with Clark in the Final Four. For her sake, it would be awesome to see Iowa win it all … but South Carolina’s consistency and development—even after losing five starters from last year’s championship team—is too hard to count out. Staley is the ultimate game engineer, and her team’s ability to learn from and improve upon wins, not losses, will make all the difference in this year’s tournament. 

The first wave of NFL free agency is over. The money has been spent.

Yet how many positions saw a legitimate market-setting offseason? Fewer than you might think. In fact, none were reset through free agency, and only one offensive position saw a new name emerge.

For clarity, we’re judging the contracts based on annual, and not total value. This is a look at which players are getting the most money on a yearly basis, with most locked into long-term deals.

So who owns their respective markets? Let’s take a look.

Quarterback | Joe Burrow

Mark J. Rebilas/USA TODAY Sports

• Team: Cincinnati Bengals
• Salary: $55 million per year

Having signed his extension last season, Burrow ranks atop the quarterback market, beating out Lamar Jackson, Justin Herbert, Jalen Hurts and others.

In Cincinnati, the main concern is getting Burrow healthy for a full year after he missed large chunks of two seasons in his first four campaigns. However, he’s one of the league’s best and considering his impact on the Bengals, he’s still a good value despite the massive price tag.

Running back | Christian McCaffrey

Stephen R. Sylvanie/USA TODAY Sports

• Team: San Francisco 49ers
• Salary: $16 million

McCaffrey watched as Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs and Derrick Henry signed new deals this offseason, but none got close to his annual or total value.

Of course, McCaffrey is deserving of the top spot, having helped lead the 49ers to the Super Bowl. The do-it-all back totaled a league-high 2,023 scrimmage yards and 21 touchdowns on the way to Offensive Player of the Year honors.

Wide receiver | Tyreek Hill

Kirby Lee/USA TODAY Sports

• Team: Miami Dolphins
• Salary: $30 million

Hill was dealt by the Kansas City Chiefs after the 2021 season, and he’s only gotten better.

Despite playing without Patrick Mahomes, Hill has been the league’s best receiver over the past two years, totaling 3,509 receiving yards and 20 touchdowns. Entering the third year of his four-year deal, Hill could have another massive payday in the near future.

Tight end | Darren Waller

Vincent Carchietta/USA TODAY Sports

• Team: New York Giants
• Salary: $17 million

This is the first regrettable contract on the list. While Waller was once a top-tier tight end, he’s fallen off considerably due to injuries.

The deal was signed with the Las Vegas Raiders but shipped off to the New York Giants after only one year. Now, with Waller consistently struggling to stay on the field—he’s played only 21 games over the past two seasons—his career is in question as free agency looms in 2025.

Tackle | Laremy Tunsil

Troy Taormina / USA TODAY Sports

• Team: Houston Texans
• Salary: $25 million

Tunsil has one of the most important jobs in football, protecting the blindside of C.J. Stroud. Luckily for Houston, he’s arguably the best left tackle in football.

The Texans gave Tunsil a three-year, $75 million deal last offseason, and he’s been worth the money. The only question has been durability; he has failed to play more than 15 games in all but one of his eight NFL seasons.

Guard | Landon Dickerson

Mark J. Rebilas/USA TODAY Sports

• Team: Philadelphia Eagles
• Salary: $21 million

Dickerson got a mammoth extension in March, making him the highest-paid guard in NFL history by average annual value standards.

At 25 years old, Dickerson figures to be a long-term piece, working alongside youngster Cam Jurgens and star left tackle Jordan Mailata. With the guard market going crazy this offseason, Dickerson got the best deal of them all.

Center | Frank Ragnow

Eric Hartline/USA TODAY Sports

• Team: Detroit Lions
• Salary: $13.5 million

Ragnow was first-team All-Pro in 2023, living up to the expectations that come with being the highest-paid player at a position.

The Lions have invested heavily in their offensive line, drafting Ragnow, Taylor Decker and Penei Sewell in the first round. They also spent in free agency to bring Kevin Zeitler into the fold on a one-year deal. The result? The best offensive line in football.

Defensive end | Nick Bosa

Kyle Terada/USA TODAY Sports

• Team: San Francisco 49ers
• Salary: $34 million

Nobody else is even close to Bosa in terms of annual value. In fact, the gap from Bosa to Myles Garrett is $9 million per year, and represents the biggest in the NFL at any position.

Bosa, who signed his deal days before Week 1 of the 2023 season, is locked up through 2028. For the 49ers, it’s a contract that should carry him through the prime of his potentially Hall-of-Fame career.

Defensive tackle | Chris Jones

Stephen R. Sylvanie/USA TODAY Sports

• Team: Kansas City Chiefs
• Salary: $31.7 million

Jones signed days before being slated for free agency, returning to the Chiefs on a five-year, $160 million contract.

With Aaron Donald’s retirement, Jones is clearly the best defensive tackle in football. Through eight seasons with Kansas City, Jones has helped spearhead three title runs while amassing 75.5 career sacks. He’s ticketed for Canton.

Outside linebacker | Brian Burns

Jim Dedmon/USA TODAY Sports

• Team: New York Giants
• Salary: $28.2 million

Incredibly, Burns wasn’t able to get his money from the Carolina Panthers, but finally got paid when he was traded to the Giants for second- and fifth-round draft picks.

Burns was dominant at times in Carolina, totaling 46 sacks across his rookie deal. However, the Panthers, who reportedly turned down an offer of two first-round picks for Burns in 2022, dealt him to New York, where he signed a five-year, $141 million pact.

Inside linebacker | Roquan Smith

Tommy Gilligan/USA TODAY Sports

• Team: Baltimore Ravens
• Salary: $20 million

Here’s another case of a player getting traded and then getting paid, with Smith signing a five-year, $100 million deal after he was dealt to Baltimore from the Chicago Bears in 2022.

Last season, Smith had his first full campaign in Charm City and played splendidly, totaling 158 tackles and eight passes defensed on the way to first-team All-Pro honors. With Smith playing inside, Baltimore allowed Patrick Queen to walk in free agency.

Cornerback | Jaire Alexander

Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

• Team: Green Bay Packers
• Salary: $21 million

Despite only a few years passing since Alexander signed his four-year, $84 million market-setting deal with the Packers, nobody has been able to eclipse it.

However, Green Bay might have buyer’s remorse. While Alexander is still an elite talent, he’s struggled to stay healthy. Last season, he played only seven games, while appearing in only 27 across the past three years.

Safety | Derwin James

Photo by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire

• Team: Los Angeles Chargers
• Salary: $19.1 million

After injuries essentially robbed James of his 2019 and ’20 seasons, the All-Pro has been able to stay relatively healthy, earning every bit of his record-setting extension.

The Chargers signed James to a four-year, $76.5 million deal in 2022 and he’s lived up to expectations, earning Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro honors since. Crucially, he’s missed just six games over the past three years.

Kicker | Justin Tucker

Ken Blaze/USA TODAY Sports

• Team: Baltimore Ravens
• Salary: $6 million

Tucker has an argument as the greatest kicker in NFL history, and he’s rightfully being paid like it in Baltimore.

Through 12 years with the Ravens, Tucker has been named first-team All-Pro five times and is the only kicker on the 2010s All-Decade Team. He also has a Super Bowl ring and, perhaps most incredibly, has missed only three field goals inside 40 yards.

Punter | Michael Dickson

Darren Yamashita/USA TODAY Sports

• Team: Seattle Seahawks
• Salary: $3.6 million

Dickson is one of the premier punters in football, even if he’s missed out on first-team All-Pro honors each of the past five years.

However, he’s still a weapon and showed that in 2023, notching an absurd 50 yards per punt with a net of 44.1 yards. 

Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant sat eight points behind Shaquille O’Neal on the NBA’s all-time scoring list heading into Wednesday’s game against the Philadelphia 76ers. Fortunately, the fans in attendance didn’t have to sweat it out for too long.

Durant cleared the mark with ease, finishing with 22 points on 10-of-18 shooting, and led his team to a 115–102 victory. He now has 28,610 points all-time, jumping Shaq (28,596) for the No. 8 spot on the list.

After being surpassed by Durant, the former Los Angeles Lakers star was all class, sending a message to Durant and also issuing a challenge as well.

“First of all, I want to say congratulations for passing me to become eighth on the NBA’s all-time scoring list, well deserved. But you know it doesn’t stop here. I probably see you at—let’s see if you can get to No. 1,” O’Neal said on the set of TNT’s Inside the NBA.

“Congratulations, brother, job well done. I knew it was gonna get done, if anybody was going to pass me, it was definitely going to be you.”

"You know it doesn't stop here... let's see if you can get to [1st all-time]"

Shaq congratulates KD on passing him for 8th on the all-time scoring list 🤝 pic.twitter.com/tuQEUHOgLx

— NBA (@NBA) March 21, 2024

While it’s a big challenge from Shaq, Durant has shown that he has plenty left in the tank. However, with LeBron James holding the No. 1 spot on the all-time scoring list with 40,179 points, it’ll be a big climb to catch the fellow future Hall-of-Famer.

Next up on the list for Durant is Wilt Chamberlain, who is No. 7 overall with 31,419 points.

Jameis Winston hasn’t played a single snap for the Cleveland Browns yet, but he’s already well on his way to becoming a fan favorite. While many fans loved the team’s decision to add Winston on a one-year deal, that excitement escalated on Wednesday when a clip of the signal-caller went viral.

The Browns introduced Winston on Wednesday, and he wasted no time getting to work. The former New Orleans Saints quarterback was filmed taking snaps under center with a player that appeared to be 2023 draft pick Luke Wypler.

Best of all? Winston was doing so while wearing the same suit from his introductory press conference.

ABSOLUTELY NOTHING IN THIS WORLD TOPS BEING AROUND PEOPLE WHO "LOVEEEEEEE" THE GAME! I PRAY DAILY THAT GOD SENDS ME PEOPLE LIKE JAMEIS WHO REALLY ARE GRATEFUL WITH THEIR ACTIONS, AND NOT WITH THIER MOUTH!!! HE IS TRULY ABOUT THIS LIFE....WOW!!!#MDFNATION@antonorwins @Browns pic.twitter.com/m4QFM5bCqx

— MODERNDAY FITNESS (@MDFNATION) March 20, 2024

Winston’s never lacked a strong work ethic, which appears to still stand true after signing with Cleveland. The 30-year-old former No. 1 overall pick will join his third NFL team after spending the first five seasons of his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the previous four in New Orleans.

Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green and Memphis Grizzlies guard Desmond Bane received technical fouls in the second quarter of Wednesday night’s game following a sideline argument that became a scuffle.

It began when Santi Aldama and Green exchanged shoves on the court, resulting in Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins speaking with the referee on the sideline. Bane didn’t seem to like how close Green was to Jenkins and the referee, so as Bane tried to move Green, more pushing followed.

The benches cleared as more players and coaches got involved, trying to separate Green and Bane from each other.

In that process, Green was pushed into Jenkins, resulting in the coach falling to the ground. This only made the Grizzlies players more heated during the situation, even though the push seemed accidental in the video clip as chaos was ensuing. 

BENCHES CLEAR AFTER DRAYMOND AND SANTI ALDAMA GET INTO IT 👀 pic.twitter.com/FRS2atUiIJ

— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) March 21, 2024

Fortunately, the two players appeared to sort things out, exchanging a quick fist bump after things had cooled off.

Green served a 16-game suspension earlier in the season after striking Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkic in the face. If Green or Bane were to receive any discipline from the NBA for this scuffle, fans would find out later in the week.

Will this year’s NCAA tournament be deja vu for No. 1 Purdue on Friday when they face No. 16 Grambling State?

As a reminder, Purdue, a No. 1 seed in last year’s NCAA tournament, lost to No. 16 seed Fairleigh Dickinson in the first round.

Grambling State beat Montana State 88–81 in overtime in a First Four matchup Wednesday night. The Tigers erased a 14-point deficit in the second half to take the lead over the Bobcats before the game eventually went into overtime.

This marks Grambling State’s first NCAA tournament appearance in program history, also making Wednesday night the team’s first program win in the tournament.

• March Madness 2024: News & Analysis | Schedule | Bracket

Since the Tigers are preparing for Friday’s game with no shortage of momentum after the victory over Montana State, some college basketball fans are already loving the idea of Purdue potentially suffering back-to-back upsets. 

As much of a longshot as it may be, the No. 16 seed Tigers appear to have plenty of support and belief that they can deliver the same fate to Purdue as Fairleigh Dickinson did last year.

Take a look at some of the social media memes regarding this prediction.

Purdue fans after watching Grambling State advance pic.twitter.com/ij8HPCda3u

— The Field of 68 (@TheFieldOf68) March 21, 2024

Watched exactly zero seconds of college basketball this year. Just watched that postgame show. Grambling State is beating Purdue.

— feitelberg (@FeitsBarstool) March 21, 2024

Purdue watching this 16 seed game @BoilerBall pic.twitter.com/lT3Z2qS4Mr

— alphaBrett (@brettwhitely) March 20, 2024

Purdue facing a feisty 16 seed?

HAMMER the Grambling State ML pic.twitter.com/msgE8YaLwO

— Patrick Clay (@patrickclay_) March 21, 2024

*watches one minute of Montana State/Grambling* “It’s over for Purdue”

— Patrick Daugherty (@RotoPat) March 21, 2024

The postgame studio crew putting Purdue on upset watch 👀

“This is a tough style of play for Purdue.”
— Adam Lefkoe

“To me, tonight, Grambling State almost looks like a better version of FDU.”
— Seth Davis

Candace Parker praises the Tigers impressive depth. https://t.co/qy3cR5n7EL

— Jerit Roser (@JeritRoser) March 21, 2024

Grambling state thinks they are beating Purdue. Wild. This is March

— RCJH (@Kansashoopschat) March 21, 2024

PREDICTION: The No. 16 Grambling State Tigers will upset the No. 1 Purdue Boilermakers on Friday.

— Kalan Hooks (@KalanHookstv) March 21, 2024

Anyone out there not scared enough to pick the Grambling State upset of Purdue?

— Ellie French (@elliefrenchTV) March 21, 2024

The New York Yankees still are one week away from Opening Day, but slugger Giancarlo Stanton appears ready for the regular season. 

In a spring training game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday at George M. Steinbrenner Field, Stanton smashed three home runs in his first three at bats. That included one homer that sent the ball over the batter’s eye in center field and another that resulted in a grand slam. 

However, Stanton’s feat was also a career first. Despite being such a notorious home run hitter, Stanton had never hit three home runs in one game before—not in spring training, not in the regular season, and not in the playoffs.

Stanton. Slam. @Giancarlo818 🤯 pic.twitter.com/mLzX4ZPU5G

— New York Yankees (@Yankees) March 20, 2024

After the game, Stanton was asked about the three-homer effort, but the veteran gave a sarcastic answer to doing it in a preseason game.

“It is cool and it will be erased in about a week,” Stanton said, via The Athletic’s Brendan Kuty. “Awesome.” 

Stanton enters the 2024 season as MLB’s active leader in home runs with 402, which sits at No. 58 on the all-time list. Therefore, it is a little surprising that such a prolific home run hitter has never had three in one game.

While Aaron Judge and Juan Soto headline the Yankees’ lineup, Stanton reminded everyone of his power during this spring training game.

The Duquesne men’s basketball team is set to embark on its first NCAA tournament run in 47 years, and it received an awesome gift from one of its most renowned supporters ahead of the first-round battle.

During a team meeting on Wednesday, the Dukes received a special delivery as a trolley of gifts were rolled into the room. It turns out, LeBron James had sent the entire squad some new sneakers ahead of their clash against the No. 6 BYU Cougars.

In a video posted by Duquesne Basketball’s official X account, the team could be seen reacting to the arrival of the shoes, clearly elated by the generous offering from the 20-time NBA All-Star.

Appreciate it King 🙏@DuqMBB x @KingJames pic.twitter.com/yTiQFMBno0

— Duquesne Basketball (@DuqMBB) March 20, 2024

James has some ties to the program. The Dukes are coached by Keith Dambrot, who was James’s coach back at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Ohio. 

[ March Madness 2024: News & Analysis | Schedule | Bracket ]

Duquesne enjoyed a 24–11 campaign in 2023-24 and won the Atlantic 10, thus clinching a bid to the Big Dance. 

The Los Angeles Lakers star congratulated the team on social media after winning the conference championship, and he followed that up in a big way with his shipment of shoes on Wednesday.

The Dukes haven’t been to the NCAA tournament since 1977 and haven’t advance past the first round of play since 1969. They’ll look to snap that drought with an upset win over BYU on Thursday, with tip-off scheduled for 12:40 p.m. EST. 

Kentucky Wildcats coach John Calipari would like to see the NCAA tournament remain as it is.

The tournament featured a 64-team field from 1989 to 2010 and expanded to 68 teams with the initial First Four round in 2011. But recent reports have indicated there is ongoing speculation the NCAA could further expand the tournament to showcase no more than 80 teams.

Calipari, who has taken Kentucky to the Big Dance in 12 of his 15 seasons at the helm, is not a fan of that idea.

[ March Madness 2024: News & Analysis | Schedule | Bracket ]

"I hope it stays where it is," Calipari said Wednesday, via ESPN. "You know, I know people get mad. They get mad at the committee. You won't believe this—I've been mad at that committee a few times. But you may be mad because of your seed or where they've shipped you to. ... But it doesn't matter who the committee is. We're all going to be upset."

There was plenty of criticism directed toward the NCAA tournament selection committee Tuesday night when the No. 10 seed Virginia Cavaliers struggled mightily in their First Four matchup. They mustered just 14 points in the first half and lost 67–42 to fellow No. 10 seed Colorado State.

The tournament expanding to around 80 programs would simply welcome more underperforming teams into the bracket.

"This is a business trip for me," Calipari said. "And I'll say everybody that's in this thing, I would say they'd say the same thing—keep it where it is. Don't mess with something that's great."

As the No. 3 seed in the South Region, Kentucky will battle 14th-seeded Oakland at 7:10 p.m. ET Thursday at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh.

Caleb Williams used his words carefully, saying it’s possible he could be playing for the Chicago Bears in the fall. He also said it’s exciting knowing that Keenan Allen could “possibly” be his wide receiver at the pro level.

He even took it as far as saying it’s possible that he’ll be picked during next month’s draft. That one made the horde of reporters chuckle, including the Chicago beat reporters who made the trip to sunny Southern California for USC’s pro day Wednesday morning.

“I wanted to come out here and put on a show,” Williams said. “I’ve been training for this next step. It’s only about 30 days out until [I’m] possibly picked.”

Williams, the presumptive No. 1 pick, brought out a crowd of scouts, head coaches, general managers and possible future teammates for his highly anticipated pro day workout. Perhaps Williams didn’t want to assume that the Bears will be taking him with the No. 1 pick on April 25 because, according to Williams, all 32 NFL teams had at least one representative in attendance to watch USC’s prospects work out on the field named after Allyson Felix, the track and field legend.

Williams did not throw at last month’s NFL scouting combine, opting instead to workout for scouts, coaches and front offices at USC’s pro day on Wednesday.

Zach Bolinger/Imago

Williams saying “possibly” gives the 31 other teams some hope of drafting the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner and signal-caller who has received comparisons to Aaron Rodgers. Besides the Bears, maybe the Washington Commanders have a realistic chance of selecting Williams because they own the No. 2 pick and they reside in the quarterback’s hometown.

So just in case there’s a chance, the Commanders had coach Dan Quinn, offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and general manager Adam Peters on the field an hour before Williams emerged from the stadium entrance near the track and field starting line. With cleats in hand, the bulky 6’1”, 217-pound Williams walked behind the Commanders’ cool group—cool because Kingsbury and Quinn were each sporting a backwards cap. Nearby was the contingent of Bears general manager Ryan Poles, head coach Matt Eberflus and Allen, whom the Bears acquired in a trade with the Los Angeles Chargers last week. Williams made sure to embrace both groups before joining his college teammates.

Caleb Williams has arrived. He walked by the Bears’ group, which includes Keenan Allen 🏈 #Bears pic.twitter.com/mSUzAP91YX

— Gilberto Manzano (@GManzano24) March 20, 2024

“I’ve known him for a year,” Williams said about Allen attending his pro day. “It’s exciting. He came off one of his best years, so that’s really exciting to possibly be able to have him as a wide receiver. Him coming off his best year, all the knowledge you can get from somebody like that would be great.”

If the Commanders are the cool group, then Bears brass could be referred to as the white attire crew. Poles, in his white hoodie, and Eberflus, in his white long sleeve, stood behind Williams when his throwing session commenced. It wasn’t an intense workout, and the Bears likely already knew what they would be getting in Williams, but Poles and Eberflus attentively watched every throw.

“It was great,” Williams said about hanging with Bears brass a day earlier. “I don’t think I really need to learn much, just building a relationship. They’re trying to see if I’m the right fit to be the first pick as a QB and go possibly as the face of the franchise. They’re trying to figure out if it’s the guy they should invest all the time, energy, effort and money into, which is obviously important in this situation. It was great building relationships.”

Coincidentally, the clouds shifted and the sun beamed on the field as Williams began his throwing session in front of the league’s shot callers. On one sideline stood Giants general manager Joe Schoen, Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz, former head coach Norv Turner, Minnesota Vikings quarterbacks coach Josh McCown, a group of offensive assistant coaches from the Bears and a variety of scouts and coaches from the New England Patriots, New York Jets, Las Vegas Raiders and Atlanta Falcons. Former USC quarterbacks Matt Leinart and Mark Sanchez watched from the far right end of the sideline.

Schoen was on the far left end of the sideline to watch the deep connections between Williams and his receivers. The New York Giants, who might have reservations about Daniel Jones, probably don’t have a chance at nabbing Williams unless they trade up from the No. 6 pick, but it doesn’t hurt to scout the Trojans’ wideouts, including Brenden Rice, the son of San Francisco 49ers legend Jerry Rice.

Caleb Williams reviews his Pro Day workout at USC pic.twitter.com/A2YmECl2xb

— Gilberto Manzano (@GManzano24) March 20, 2024

“I missed a few passes deep,” Williams said of his throwing session. “Threw it a little bit over their heads. I didn't give them enough room for error with the ball flight.”

Williams was being hard on himself for a workout he didn’t need to do because he’s probably, not possibly, going to be the No. 1 pick next month. But it bodes well that he was willing to throw to showcase his USC teammates.

 Another reason why the Bears will possibly select Williams with the first pick. 

Los Angeles Rams star Aaron Donald announced his retirement earlier this month after 10 dominant NFL seasons, putting an end to one of the most legendary careers in recent memory.

On Wednesday, Donald teased an upcoming video in which he plans to detail the reasons behind his retirement, offering an explanation to Rams fans for his departure.

“Went to two Super Bowls. Won one, lost one. I’m complete. I’m full,” Donald said. “I think the passion to play the game is no longer there for me. I will always love football, but to think about going through another camp and another 17 [game] season, I just don’t got the urge to want to push myself to do that no more.”

coming soon 🎬 #rams #ad99 #ready #retirement #ddg pic.twitter.com/ozh8QDs0j7

— AD_99 (@AaronDonald97) March 20, 2024

“I’m burnt out. ... I’m full, I’m complete, I’m satisfied with what I was able to do in 10 years and I think it’s time for me, at 32 years old, to retire from football and jump into the next step of my career and my life, and now it’s time to move on.”

Despite appearing in 16 games last season, the thought of preparing for and participating in the gauntlet that is another full campaign in the NFL proved too daunting for Donald. Instead, he’ll close the curtain on that chapter of his life, with a Hall of Fame resume to boast.

In Donald’s 10 seasons, the defensive tackle made 10 Pro Bowls and earned eight First Team All-Pro selections. He’s a one-time Super Bowl champ and three-time Defensive Player of the Year. Donald recorded 111 sacks and 176 tackles for loss in 154 career games, dominating in the trenches as a former first-round pick out of Pittsburgh in 2014. 

Editor’s note: If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or is in emotional distress, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK(8255) or at suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

Women’s Tennis Association star Aryna Sabalenka broke her silence about the death of her former boyfriend, ex-NHL player Konstantin Koltsov, one day after the news was announced.

The Belarusian tennis star posted a message to her Instagram story on Wednesday to express her sorrow during this time.

“Konstantin’s death is an unthinkable tragedy, and while we were no longer together, my heart is broken,” Sabalenka wrote. “Please respect my privacy and his family’s privacy during this difficult time.”

It was thought that Sabalenka and Koltsov were still in a relationship at the time of his death until she released this statement.

Aryna Sabalenka speaks out for the first time since the tragic events pic.twitter.com/7Rx6WQbwDT

— Bastien Fachan (@BastienFachan) March 20, 2024

Koltsov’s death was first reported to be due to a “detached blood clot,” according to Belarusian media outlet Telegraf, but the Miami-Dade Police Department later announced on Tuesday that they are investigating his death as an apparent suicide.

Sabalenka is planning to play in this week’s WTA Miami Open, but she is not expected to meet with media during the tournament. Her first match is on Friday, March 22 vs. Paula Badosa.

The translator and close friend of Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani, Ippei Mizuhara, has been fired by the team after a Los Angeles Times report said Mizuhara was accused by Ohtani’s lawyers of the theft of “millions of dollars” from Ohtani.

According to the report, Ohtani’s legal team accused Mizuhara of using Ohtani’s funds to place bets with an illegal bookmaker, Mathew Bowyer, who is under federal investigation.

In a statement to the Los Angeles Times, the Hollywood law firm, Berk Brettler LLP, said, “In the course of responding to recent media inquiries, we discovered that Shohei has been the victim of a massive theft and we are turning the matter over to the authorities.”

A spokesperson for MLB said the league first learned of Mizuhara’s betting when contacted by media outlets and has not heard from federal investigators. Mizuhara was with Ohtani as recently as Wednesday for the first game of the Dodgers’ season-opening two-game series against the San Diego Padres in Seoul, Korea.

According to a report from ESPN, Mizuhara, 39, admitted to running up gambling debts on sports other than baseball with the bookmaker, claiming he did not know the activity was illegal. ESPN reported that Mizuhara first told ESPN on Tuesday that Ohtani wired payments to cover his debts, which ESPN reported surpassed $4.5 million. But on Wednesday, Mizuhara told ESPN that Ohtani had no knowledge of his gambling debuts and had not transferred money.

Mizuhara, right, was fired by the Dodgers on Wednesday.

Kirby Lee/USA TODAY Sports

According to MLB Rule 21 (d) (3), “any player, umpire, or Club or League official or employee who places bets with illegal book makers, or agents for illegal book makers, shall be subject to such penalty as the Commissioner deems appropriate in light of the facts and circumstances of the conduct.”

The rule goes on to define an illegal bookmaker as “an individual who accepts, places or handles wagers on sporting events from members of the public as part of a gaming operation that is unlawful in the jurisdiction in which the bets are accepted.” California is one of 12 states in which sports betting remains illegal.

Though Mizuhara worked exclusively with Ohtani, he also was an employee of the Dodgers. MLB requires that all translators be club employees, given their full access to team facilities. Now that Mizuhara has been fired by the Dodgers and law enforcement authorities are involved in the case, MLB has no urgency to act.

More than a translator, Mizuhara has been an important part of Ohtani’s success since before Ohtani joined MLB in 2017. He is also a close confidant and training partner. As Dodgers pitcher Walker Buehler told SI in an Ohtani cover story in the magazine this week, “His interpreter is his secret sauce. He does a great job recording data and remembering. I’m sure Shohei does as well, but Ippei monitors and follows. They’re both pros.”

Mizuhara, left, knew Ohtani before the superstar signed with the Los Angeles Angels in 2017.

Kirby Lee/USA TODAY Sports

The more severe penalties associated with Rule 21 involve betting on baseball. Those who bet on baseball games not involving their team are declared ineligible for one year. Those who place bets on “any baseball game in connection with which the bettor has a duty to perform shall be declared permanently ineligible.” Pete Rose, for instance, was found to be in violation of that section of Rule 21, known as (d) (2).

Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred has sole discretion on discipline for violations of Rule 21 (d) (3).

The last time MLB levied discipline related to Rule 21 (d) (3) came in 2015, just three months into Manfred’s term as commissioner. His office launched an investigation in March of that year after Marlins pitcher Jarred Cosart tweeted about betting “large.” Cosart cooperated with the investigation, which found Cosart did not bet on baseball but did violate the rule. Manfred fined Cosart an undisclosed sum on April 3, 2015.

Travis Kelce has hopped on the Love Is Blind train after the sixth season of the popular Netflix dating show premiered.

The Kansas City Chiefs tight end tried to convince his brother Jason Kelce, the recently retired Philadelphia Eagles center, to watch the show while speaking on this week’s episode of their New Heights podcast.

The elder Kelce wasn’t having it. He quickly shut down any arguments to get him to watch the show.

The Super Bowl LVIII champion went a step further, though, and showed off an impression of one of the show’s contestants, Chelsea Blackwell.

One of this season’s biggest clips was of Blackwell arguing with her fiancé, Jimmy Presnell. At one point, Blackwell questions if she’s “clingy.” Kelce delivered a perfect impression of this moment. Watch it below.

Help Travis convince Jason to watch Love is Blind 🙏😭 pic.twitter.com/d4zJ8VdodL

— New Heights (@newheightshow) March 20, 2024

Blackwell noticed Kelce’s impression of her on social media and had fun with the moment.

The marketing Love is Blind is about to have 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/KxLBAmT3MN

— Brenda (Tortured Poet) (@silentswiftie89) March 20, 2024

Fans of both the NFL and Love Is Blind loved watching Kelce’s impression of Blackwell. Check out some of the reactions.

Not the Chelsea impression 💀💀💀 https://t.co/OhkY4VLKVq

— Mina Kimes (@minakimes) March 20, 2024

travis kelce's impression of chelsea is something i didn't know i needed but am SO thankful to now have https://t.co/NYc1Zgymw7

— april cali’s day 🤡 (@caliiinoel) March 20, 2024

travis kelce doing an impression of chelsea from love is blind whining is so iconic. american pop culture at its finest

— cass 💫 (@sabsreality) March 20, 2024

The Chelsea impression is spot on 😂😂😂 https://t.co/ijIqN3ufgZ

— Marissa Marie (@marissmarie_) March 20, 2024

Chelsea!!!
😂😂😂😂😂#LoveIsBlindS6 https://t.co/OvarROlvE4 pic.twitter.com/F4m95AKuNg

— FumzE (@Merbabe71) March 20, 2024

Just imagining Travis and Taylor hanging around watching Love Is Blind like I do with my wife, making fun of Chelsea. Stars, they’re just like us!! https://t.co/GeSw5BH3hj

— Josh Kail (@THATJoshKail) March 20, 2024

he nails that impression lmao im dying https://t.co/fUTej1rhyg

— c🤍 (@midnightselegy) March 20, 2024

Taylor currently writing a new song titled “Clingy” https://t.co/P1jAzPhKHG

— Nicole Michalik (@NicoleisNik) March 20, 2024