By TOI GLOBAL DESK
The Indiana Fever opened training camp in Indianapolis with Caitlin Clark making a welcome return after an injury-hit 2025 season. Clark, who played just 13 games last year, was back on the court for drills at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, signaling her recovery and readiness for the new season. Though her participation was limited, her presence marked an important step forward after months of rehab and setbacks that also kept her out of major events like All-Star weekend.Clark described the mental challenge of being sidelined, saying the experience was isolating but also helped her find new ways to support the team. Now fully fit, she emphasized a smarter approach to managing her body moving forward. The Fever plan to ease her workload early in camp, prioritizing long-term health. With Clark back alongside Aliyah Boston, Indiana enters the season aiming to build momentum and contend strongly.
The Indiana Fever opened training camp in Indianapolis with Caitlin Clark making a welcome return after an injury-hit 2025 season. Clark, who played just 13 games last year, was back on the court for drills at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, signaling her recovery and readiness for the new season. Though her participation was limited, her presence marked an important step forward after months of rehab and setbacks that also kept her out of major events like All-Star weekend.Clark described the mental challenge of being sidelined, saying the experience was isolating but also helped her find new ways to support the team. Now fully fit, she emphasized a smarter approach to managing her body moving forward. The Fever plan to ease her workload early in camp, prioritizing long-term health. With Clark back alongside Aliyah Boston, Indiana enters the season aiming to build momentum and contend strongly.
By TOI GLOBAL DESK
The Indiana Fever signed Aliyah Boston to a four-year, $6.3 million extension under a new WNBA rule rewarding early career excellence. Boston, the No. 1 pick in 2023 and Rookie of the Year, becomes the first player to benefit from this provision after establishing herself as a consistent All-Star. She has been central to Indiana’s rise, helping the team stay competitive despite injuries and emerging as one of the league’s most reliable frontcourt players. The deal signals the franchise’s long-term commitment to building around Boston and Caitlin Clark as cornerstone stars. Boston has already made history within the organization, setting records in rebounds and double-doubles, including 17 in a single season. With improved pay structures and a stronger core, the Fever are positioning themselves as serious contenders, aiming to take the next step toward a championship in the coming seasons.
The Indiana Fever signed Aliyah Boston to a four-year, $6.3 million extension under a new WNBA rule rewarding early career excellence. Boston, the No. 1 pick in 2023 and Rookie of the Year, becomes the first player to benefit from this provision after establishing herself as a consistent All-Star. She has been central to Indiana’s rise, helping the team stay competitive despite injuries and emerging as one of the league’s most reliable frontcourt players. The deal signals the franchise’s long-term commitment to building around Boston and Caitlin Clark as cornerstone stars. Boston has already made history within the organization, setting records in rebounds and double-doubles, including 17 in a single season. With improved pay structures and a stronger core, the Fever are positioning themselves as serious contenders, aiming to take the next step toward a championship in the coming seasons.
By TOI GLOBAL DESK
Former NBA guard Damon Jones is expected to plead guilty in a major gambling case involving more than 30 individuals, including figures tied to organized crime. His court hearing in Brooklyn has been moved up to April 28. Prosecutors allege Jones shared confidential injury information about stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis with bettors before it became public, influencing wagers on games involving the Los Angeles Lakers and others. He is also accused of participating in illegal high-stakes poker games where outcomes were manipulated using hidden cameras and altered equipment. Investigators say Jones was paid for his role and knowingly assisted in the schemes. The case is linked to broader illegal gambling operations in New York. His plea could be a key development as authorities continue pursuing others involved.
Former NBA guard Damon Jones is expected to plead guilty in a major gambling case involving more than 30 individuals, including figures tied to organized crime. His court hearing in Brooklyn has been moved up to April 28. Prosecutors allege Jones shared confidential injury information about stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis with bettors before it became public, influencing wagers on games involving the Los Angeles Lakers and others. He is also accused of participating in illegal high-stakes poker games where outcomes were manipulated using hidden cameras and altered equipment. Investigators say Jones was paid for his role and knowingly assisted in the schemes. The case is linked to broader illegal gambling operations in New York. His plea could be a key development as authorities continue pursuing others involved.
By TOI GLOBAL DESK
The Las Vegas Aces reinforced their dominance by re-signing A’ja Wilson to a record three-year supermax deal reportedly worth $5 million, the richest contract in WNBA history. The four-time MVP remains the cornerstone of a team that has won three championships in the past four seasons. Team president Nikki Fargas emphasized Wilson’s importance, while coach Becky Hammon highlighted her unmatched impact. The Aces have also secured key players like Jackie Young, Chelsea Gray and Jewell Loyd, keeping their championship core intact. Wilson continues to dominate, leading the league in scoring and blocks while earning MVP and sharing Defensive Player of the Year honors last season. With added depth including Chennedy Carter, Las Vegas is focused on sustaining its dynasty and chasing more titles.
The Las Vegas Aces reinforced their dominance by re-signing A’ja Wilson to a record three-year supermax deal reportedly worth $5 million, the richest contract in WNBA history. The four-time MVP remains the cornerstone of a team that has won three championships in the past four seasons. Team president Nikki Fargas emphasized Wilson’s importance, while coach Becky Hammon highlighted her unmatched impact. The Aces have also secured key players like Jackie Young, Chelsea Gray and Jewell Loyd, keeping their championship core intact. Wilson continues to dominate, leading the league in scoring and blocks while earning MVP and sharing Defensive Player of the Year honors last season. With added depth including Chennedy Carter, Las Vegas is focused on sustaining its dynasty and chasing more titles.
By TOI GLOBAL DESK
Veteran broadcaster Dick Vitale is facing another serious health challenge after doctors confirmed his melanoma has spread to his lung and liver. The 86-year-old ESPN analyst is preparing to begin treatment, adding to a series of cancer battles he has already overcome, including lymphoma and vocal-cord cancer. Despite the diagnosis, Vitale remains optimistic, expressing confidence in defeating cancer once again. He learned of the condition after undergoing extensive testing, including scans and a biopsy. Known as “Dickie V,” he has been a passionate voice in college basketball since joining ESPN in 1979 and returned to broadcasting before March Madness in 2025 after a long absence. Beyond his work, Vitale has raised over $150 million for pediatric cancer research through charity efforts. As he begins treatment, the basketball world has rallied behind him in support.
Veteran broadcaster Dick Vitale is facing another serious health challenge after doctors confirmed his melanoma has spread to his lung and liver. The 86-year-old ESPN analyst is preparing to begin treatment, adding to a series of cancer battles he has already overcome, including lymphoma and vocal-cord cancer. Despite the diagnosis, Vitale remains optimistic, expressing confidence in defeating cancer once again. He learned of the condition after undergoing extensive testing, including scans and a biopsy. Known as “Dickie V,” he has been a passionate voice in college basketball since joining ESPN in 1979 and returned to broadcasting before March Madness in 2025 after a long absence. Beyond his work, Vitale has raised over $150 million for pediatric cancer research through charity efforts. As he begins treatment, the basketball world has rallied behind him in support.
By TOI GLOBAL DESK
The Dallas Wings selected Azzi Fudd as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, marking a major moment under the league’s new pay structure. Fudd will earn a rookie salary of around $500,000, one of the highest ever, and reunite with former UConn Huskies women's basketball teammate Paige Bueckers in Dallas. Olivia Miles went second to Minnesota, while international prospect Awa Fam Thiam was picked third. Lauren Betts and Gabriela Jaquez highlighted a strong showing from UCLA Bruins women's basketball, which had six players drafted. Kiki Rice was selected sixth, becoming the first pick for Toronto’s expansion team. Fudd also made history alongside her mother, Katie Smrcka-Duffy, as a rare drafted mother-daughter duo. The draft reflected the WNBA’s rapid growth, with higher salaries, global talent and stronger college pipelines shaping the league’s future.
The Dallas Wings selected Azzi Fudd as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, marking a major moment under the league’s new pay structure. Fudd will earn a rookie salary of around $500,000, one of the highest ever, and reunite with former UConn Huskies women's basketball teammate Paige Bueckers in Dallas. Olivia Miles went second to Minnesota, while international prospect Awa Fam Thiam was picked third. Lauren Betts and Gabriela Jaquez highlighted a strong showing from UCLA Bruins women's basketball, which had six players drafted. Kiki Rice was selected sixth, becoming the first pick for Toronto’s expansion team. Fudd also made history alongside her mother, Katie Smrcka-Duffy, as a rare drafted mother-daughter duo. The draft reflected the WNBA’s rapid growth, with higher salaries, global talent and stronger college pipelines shaping the league’s future.
By TOI GLOBAL DESK
Iowa Hawkeyes football will forfeit four wins from the 2023 season after an NCAA Division I Committee on Infractions investigation found recruiting violations tied to the transfer portal. Head coach Kirk Ferentz and assistant Jon Budmayr were found to have contacted a player before he officially entered the portal, violating NCAA rules. The player is believed to be Cade McNamara, who later transferred to Iowa. Because of the improper contact, the NCAA ruled the player ineligible for the 2023 season, leading to the vacated wins. The program was also placed on one-year probation. Iowa had already imposed penalties, including suspensions for both coaches and recruiting restrictions, which helped limit further punishment. Ferentz accepted responsibility for the violation, acknowledging the impact on the program. The decision leaves a lasting mark on Iowa’s record and reputation.
Iowa Hawkeyes football will forfeit four wins from the 2023 season after an NCAA Division I Committee on Infractions investigation found recruiting violations tied to the transfer portal. Head coach Kirk Ferentz and assistant Jon Budmayr were found to have contacted a player before he officially entered the portal, violating NCAA rules. The player is believed to be Cade McNamara, who later transferred to Iowa. Because of the improper contact, the NCAA ruled the player ineligible for the 2023 season, leading to the vacated wins. The program was also placed on one-year probation. Iowa had already imposed penalties, including suspensions for both coaches and recruiting restrictions, which helped limit further punishment. Ferentz accepted responsibility for the violation, acknowledging the impact on the program. The decision leaves a lasting mark on Iowa’s record and reputation.
By TOI GLOBAL DESK
The Dallas Wings enter the 2026 season holding the No. 1 draft pick, now more valuable than ever under the WNBA’s new collective bargaining agreement. The top selection is expected to earn around $500,000, a major increase compared to previous years and significantly higher than what Paige Bueckers received as last year’s top pick. Leading candidates include Azzi Fudd from UConn Huskies women's basketball, who could reunite with Bueckers, international prospect Awa Fam Thiam and Lauren Betts from UCLA Bruins women's basketball. With a strong core already in place, Dallas is focused on adding the right fit rather than rebuilding. Meanwhile, UCLA could challenge UConn Huskies women's basketball for the record of most first-round picks by a single program. The draft highlights growing financial recognition for incoming players.
The Dallas Wings enter the 2026 season holding the No. 1 draft pick, now more valuable than ever under the WNBA’s new collective bargaining agreement. The top selection is expected to earn around $500,000, a major increase compared to previous years and significantly higher than what Paige Bueckers received as last year’s top pick. Leading candidates include Azzi Fudd from UConn Huskies women's basketball, who could reunite with Bueckers, international prospect Awa Fam Thiam and Lauren Betts from UCLA Bruins women's basketball. With a strong core already in place, Dallas is focused on adding the right fit rather than rebuilding. Meanwhile, UCLA could challenge UConn Huskies women's basketball for the record of most first-round picks by a single program. The draft highlights growing financial recognition for incoming players.
By TOI GLOBAL DESK
The National Football League is facing increased scrutiny from the United States Department of Justice and the Federal Communications Commission as more games shift to streaming platforms. Authorities are reviewing whether the league’s media deals are fair to consumers and competitors, while also gathering public feedback on the move away from traditional television. Major games, including Thursday Night Football, have already moved to platforms like Amazon Prime Video, requiring paid subscriptions instead of free access on networks such as CBS and Fox. The NFL earns roughly $11 billion annually from media rights, with streaming deals playing a major role. Ongoing debates also involve the Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961 and past legal challenges over packages like Sunday Ticket. As streaming expands, concerns are growing over accessibility, pricing and fairness.
The National Football League is facing increased scrutiny from the United States Department of Justice and the Federal Communications Commission as more games shift to streaming platforms. Authorities are reviewing whether the league’s media deals are fair to consumers and competitors, while also gathering public feedback on the move away from traditional television. Major games, including Thursday Night Football, have already moved to platforms like Amazon Prime Video, requiring paid subscriptions instead of free access on networks such as CBS and Fox. The NFL earns roughly $11 billion annually from media rights, with streaming deals playing a major role. Ongoing debates also involve the Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961 and past legal challenges over packages like Sunday Ticket. As streaming expands, concerns are growing over accessibility, pricing and fairness.
By TOI GLOBAL DESK
The 2026 WNBA Draft is set for April 13 at The Shed in New York City, with top college stars ready to begin their professional careers. Leading the class are Azzi Fudd from UConn Huskies women's basketball, Lauren Betts from UCLA Bruins women's basketball and Olivia Miles from TCU Horned Frogs women's basketball, all expected to be top picks. The league has invited 15 prospects, including Flau'jae Johnson, Kiki Rice and Gabriela Jaquez, highlighting the depth of this year’s class. The group features talent from powerhouse programs like UCLA, USC and LSU, along with international players. Notably, eight invitees come from UCLA, reflecting the program’s recent dominance. While many of these players are expected to be first-round selections, uncertainty remains over team fits. The draft promises to shape the league’s future with a diverse and highly skilled group of prospects.
The 2026 WNBA Draft is set for April 13 at The Shed in New York City, with top college stars ready to begin their professional careers. Leading the class are Azzi Fudd from UConn Huskies women's basketball, Lauren Betts from UCLA Bruins women's basketball and Olivia Miles from TCU Horned Frogs women's basketball, all expected to be top picks. The league has invited 15 prospects, including Flau'jae Johnson, Kiki Rice and Gabriela Jaquez, highlighting the depth of this year’s class. The group features talent from powerhouse programs like UCLA, USC and LSU, along with international players. Notably, eight invitees come from UCLA, reflecting the program’s recent dominance. While many of these players are expected to be first-round selections, uncertainty remains over team fits. The draft promises to shape the league’s future with a diverse and highly skilled group of prospects.