Celtics Command Cavs With Home Court Triumph 120-95

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May 8, 2024

The Celtics burst onto the court, igniting a blazing 5-0 lead in the opening quarter fueled by Jaylen Brown’s effortless three-pointer and precision at the free-throw line. Despite a late surge from the Cavaliers, Morris Sr.’s buzzer-beating 26-foot three-pointer helped narrow the gap. Brown’s stellar performance amassed an impressive 15 points, propelling the Celtics to an early advantage.

In the second quarter, the Cavaliers struggled to keep pace with the relentless Celtics offense. A sharp three-point shot from Pritchard extended the Celtics’ lead into double digits early on, firmly solidifying their control for the remainder of the half. Despite efforts from Cavaliers stars Garland and Mitchell, who combined for 7 points, the team fell short in their attempt to halt the Celtics’ momentum.

Photo Cred: USA Today

Entering the second half facing a daunting 59-49 deficit, the Cavaliers encountered an uphill battle. Aaron Holiday showcased his shooting prowess with back-to-back three-pointers, swiftly widening the Celtics’ lead. A concerted effort from Brown, White, and Holiday further extended the gap, leaving the Cavaliers trailing by 16 points. Despite Mitchell’s valiant individual efforts, sinking five consecutive two-pointers, the Cavaliers struggled to close the distance.

The fourth quarter witnessed the Celtics asserting their dominance, expanding their lead to a commanding 20 points with a seamless jump shot from Jayson Tatum. Pritchard and Holiday added to the Cavaliers’ woes with five more points, leaving little hope for a late comeback. Though the Cavaliers fought until the final buzzer, with George Niang contributing four points from the free-throw line in the dwindling minutes, they ultimately succumbed to a resounding 25-point defeat, a stark contrast to their previous close encounter.

Nikola Jokić wins third MVP

By

Stephen Patrick

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May 8, 2024

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nikola-jokic-smile-1568x882 — Photo Cred: NBA

Nikola Jokić has once again ascended to the pinnacle of basketball excellence as he clinched his third NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in four seasons, solidifying his indomitable presence among the pantheon of basketball legends. The center triumphed over stiff competition from Oklahoma City Thunder’s agile guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Dallas Mavericks prodigious talent Luka Dončić, both finalists in their own right. This season marked a familiar terrain for Jokić, who, for the fourth consecutive year, found himself vying for the coveted title of MVP, a testament to his unparalleled consistency and dominance on the court.

Despite narrowly missing out to Joel Embiid in 2023, Jokić etched his name in the annals of NBA history by seizing the NBA Finals MVP trophy last season, orchestrating the Nuggets’ historic march to their maiden NBA championship. Jokić embarked on yet another stellar campaign, reaffirming his stature as the quintessential embodiment of basketball brilliance. Across 79 regular-season encounters, Jokić averaged 26.4 points, 12.4 rebounds, and nine assists per game with 1.4 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. His shooting efficiency remained a marvel to behold, boasting a remarkable 58.3% success rate from the field, coupled with a respectable 35.9% accuracy from beyond the arc on 2.9 three-point attempts per game.

Nikola Jokic MVP Puts Him in Elite Company With Third Award

Photo Cred: SI

Such staggering statistics served as a fitting testament to Jokić’s unparalleled skill set and basketball IQ, earning him a well-deserved sixth consecutive All-Star nod. Moreover, Jokić’s has propelled the Nuggets to lofty heights, steering them to an impressive 57-25 record, a mark of excellence that stood shoulder to shoulder with the Oklahoma City Thunder, clinching the coveted No. 2 seed in the playoffs in the fiercely competitive Western Conference. With each game, Jokić’s gravitational pull on the court became more palpable, drawing teammates and opponents alike into his orbit of basketball brilliance.

His masterful orchestration of the Nuggets’ offense, coupled with his tenacious defense, served as the bedrock of their success, instilling a sense of unwavering belief and resilience within the team’s ranks. As Jokić stood atop the NBA’s pinnacle once again, adorned with the mantle of MVP glory, the basketball world marveled at his unparalleled prowess, further solidifying his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats. In the hallowed halls of basketball lore, Nikola Jokić’s name shimmered with an iridescent glow, a beacon of inspiration for generations to come, as he etched his indelible mark on the annals of basketball history.

TSU is First HBCU to Introduce Collegiate Ice Hockey

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Stephen Patrick

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May 7, 2024

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Tennessee State University (TSU) President Glenda Glover and Director of Athletics Dr. Mikki Allen have proudly announced the appointment of Duanté Abercrombie as the inaugural head coach of the men’s hockey team, marking a historic milestone as the first head coach of a hockey program at a historically Black college or university (HBCU).

Photo Cred: WPLN

Expressing his enthusiasm for this groundbreaking opportunity, Abercrombie stated, “I am incredibly excited to embark on building this program, supported by God, my family, TSU students, alumni, and all those eagerly awaiting this moment. I firmly believe that one day, TSU will be recognized not only as a powerhouse on the ice but also as a program whose student-athletes leave a profound legacy on the world, enriched by the lessons learned at TSU.”

The journey towards establishing the men’s hockey program at TSU began in June 2023, when the university announced its plans to become the first HBCU to offer men’s hockey. Abercrombie’s appointment serves as a significant step forward in realizing this vision. The decision to compete against schools in the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) and College Hockey Federation (CHF) underscores TSU’s strategic approach to laying the foundation for future success.

Photo Cred: TSU

By engaging in competition with ACHA schools, TSU aims to emulate the path taken by institutions like Arizona State, gradually progressing towards Division I status. Similarly, competing against CHF schools, including familiar names like Auburn, Georgia, and Vanderbilt. This provides TSU with opportunities to showcase its talent to a broader audience, particularly in Nashville.

While TSU’s focus remains on building its men’s hockey program, there are plans to expand opportunities for women in the sport as well. According to Guerriero, TSU intends to eventually introduce a women’s hockey program. However, the addition of a men’s hockey team necessitates compliance with Title IX regulations, which mandate equitable opportunities for male and female athletes. Presently, TSU maintains Title IX compliance, but the addition of a women’s hockey program would require the establishment of another women’s team to maintain compliance.

This commitment underscores TSU’s dedication to fostering gender equity in athletics while pioneering new avenues for student-athletes to excel. In summary, Abercrombie’s appointment as head coach of TSU’s men’s hockey team heralds a new era of athletic excellence and inclusivity at the university. As TSU continues to break barriers and inspire other HBCUs, the establishment of its hockey program serves as a testament to its commitment to innovation, diversity, and the pursuit of excellence both on and off the ice.

The Knicks advance to the Second Round of Playoffs

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Megan Frey

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May 7, 2024

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dm_240502_76ers_knicks_highlight — Photo Cred: ESPN

In a thrilling showdown on May 2nd, the Knicks clashed with the 76ers in a tense battle that culminated in a nail-biting finish, with the scoreboard reading 118-115. The game kicked off with the Knicks asserting their dominance from the get-go, orchestrating a seamless series of plays that propelled them to an early 7-point lead within the first three possessions. Divencenzo’s precision from beyond the arc, paired with Brunson’s impressive free throw execution, swiftly extended their advantage to 13 points.

Photo Cred: NBA

With momentum firmly on their side, the Knicks showcased exceptional teamwork, highlighted by Divencenzo’s recurring three-pointers and shots from Brunson and Anunoby, constructing a spectacular 28-9 lead. Yet, sensing the urgency of the moment, the 76ers mounted a resurgence in the final minutes of the opening quarter, engineering an impressive 11-0 run to narrow the deficit to 36-22 as the buzzer sounded. The second quarter commenced with a rapid exchange of possessions until Philadelphia escalated offensively, embarking on another blistering 11-0 streak, gradually erasing the Knicks’ once commanding lead.

Photo Cred: ESPN

Hartenstein emerged as a formidable force, single-handedly chipping away at the deficit with four quick points. However, it was Oubre’s clutch 3-pointer in the dying moments of the half that propelled the 76ers into their first lead of the night, concluding a fiercely contested first half with Philadelphia clinging to a slim 54-51 advantage. Returning from halftime with renewed determination, Philadelphia assembled their defensive prowess to stifle the Knicks’ offensive onslaught. Maxey’s acrobatic 27-foot jumper extended the 76ers’ lead into double digits for the first time.

They maintained their ascendancy until Anunoby’s timely three-point salvo restored dominance for the Knicks as the third quarter drew to a close. The final quarter witnessed a grueling battle for supremacy, with both teams exchanging possession in a relentless tug of war. Anunoby’s three-pointer narrowed the gap to a mere two possessions early in the quarter, setting the stage for a thrilling climax.

Brunson, exhibiting nerves of steel, rattled off five crucial points, including a pivotal jump shot and a dagger three-pointer with six minutes remaining. Brunson’s prowess propelled the Knicks into the driver’s seat. Despite Maxey’s heroic efforts to level the score at 111 with a clutch three-pointer, Hart’s three-pointer with just 25 seconds remaining swung the momentum decisively in the Knicks’ favor, securing a 3-point lead. With the 76ers resorting to fouling in a last-ditch attempt to salvage the game, the Knicks, unflappable in the face of pressure, calmly converted their free throws to clinch a thrilling victory.

Dramatic Finish: The 150th Kentucky Derby’s Unforgettable Photo Finish

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Stephen Patrick

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May 7, 2024

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73573537007-2024-derby-day-ms-55 — Photo Cred: LA Times

The 150th Kentucky Derby will be remembered for one of the most dramatic finishes in its storied history. As the horses thundered down the final stretch, Mystik Dan found himself in a desperate battle to maintain his lead, with two determined challengers surging towards him. What followed was a heart-stopping moment frozen in time, as three noses crossed the wire simultaneously. Mystik Dan, an unexpected 18-1 shot, showed incredible tenacity, clinging on by the narrowest of margins.

However, the race wasn’t over at the finish line. A delay of several minutes ensued as officials meticulously examined the closest three-horse photo finish since 1947. In that historic race, Jet Pilot secured victory by a mere head over Phalanx, who in turn was just a head in front of Faultless. Yet, the 150th Derby surpassed even that level of intensity. Mystik Dan managed to eke out a win by a nose, narrowly edging out Sierra Leone, while Forever Young trailed just another nose behind in third. Notably, Sierra Leone, the runner-up, was the most expensive horse in the race, valued at a staggering $2.3 million.

Photo Cred: Church Hill Downs

The early stages of the race had seen long shots Track Phantom and Just Steel take charge, leading the field through the opening strides. Meanwhile, the 3-1 favorite, Fierceness, opted for a strategic position, racing three-wide just off the leaders as the tension mounted. Yet, as the contenders approached the top of the stretch, the dynamics of the race underwent a seismic shift.

The atmosphere crackled with anticipation as the leaders battled for supremacy, each stride bringing them closer to the moment of truth. In the end, it was Mystik Dan who defied the odds, his determination and grit etching his name into Derby lore. The 150th Kentucky Derby will forever be remembered for its unforgettable finish, where three determined competitors fought tooth and nail, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats until the very last stride.

Timberwolves take game 1 on road in second round vs Nuggets

By

Augustus Oswald

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May 6, 2024

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O7CQZGJP7NH6JLEQJMO4ZOQSCQ — Photo Cred: Cleveland.com

After securing a spot in the second round for the first time since 2004 by sweeping the Phoenix Suns, the Timberwolves made a statement by clinching Game One against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado, on Saturday with a score of 106-99. Rising star Anthony Edwards stole the show, leading all scorers with an impressive 43 points, shooting 17-29 overall and 3-7 from beyond the arc, along with grabbing seven rebounds and dishing out three assists. On the opposing side, Nikola Jokic of the Nuggets contributed 32 points, shooting 11-25 overall, while also securing eight rebounds and nine assists.

Photo Cred: ESPN

This marks the first time the reigning champions, the Denver Nuggets, have found themselves trailing in a series since the 2021-22 postseason. Denver struggled notably with bench scoring, managing only 12 points compared to Minnesota’s 23. Naz Reid, named Sixth Man of the Year, showcased his prowess with 16 points for the Timberwolves, shooting 7-11 overall and 2-4 from three, with 14 of those points coming in the crucial fourth quarter. Karl-Anthony Towns and Mike Conley also made significant contributions, finishing with 20 and 14 points respectively.

Minnesota maintained an impressive 52.4% shooting overall, while Denver settled at 46.7%. Michael Porter Jr. continued his strong postseason performance for Denver, netting 20 points on 6-13 shooting overall, including 4-7 from beyond the arc. Despite a slow start, Jamal Murray, still grappling with a lingering calf injury, managed to tally 17 points, shooting 6-14 overall and 2-4 from three, alongside four assists. Aaron Gordon, after a standout performance against the Lakers, struggled once again, finishing with only 9 points on 4-6 shooting.

Photo Cred: Star Tribune

Minnesota surged ahead with an early 18-4 lead, powered by Edwards’ 13 points. However, the Nuggets swiftly responded with a 13-0 run, closing the gap to 18-17 with 1:56 left in the first quarter. The game remained tight throughout the first half, with Edwards leading the charge for Minnesota with 25 points by halftime. Although the Nuggets held a slim 44-40 lead at halftime, Minnesota’s Reid and Conley combined for 30 points in the second half, after managing just two points in the first.

The third quarter saw both teams trading blows, with the Nuggets entering the final quarter with a narrow 73-71 lead. Murray’s four-point play gave Denver an 81-80 lead early in the fourth quarter, but Edwards quickly responded with a 4-0 run. Christian Braun’s clutch three-pointer tied the game at 84 with 6:24 remaining. However, Minnesota seized control with an 8-0 run, effectively sealing the victory with a commanding 102-91 lead and 1:36 left on the clock.

Assistant coach Micah Nori stepped up as head coach for Minnesota, filling in for the sidelined Chris Finch, who suffered a torn tendon in the previous round and underwent surgery. This marks the second consecutive postseason meeting between Minnesota and Denver, with the Nuggets winning the first-round series 4-1 last season. As the series progresses, the Nuggets aim to bounce back and secure a win in Game Two at home, while the Timberwolves seek to extend their lead to 2-0 against the defending champions before heading to Minnesota for Games Three and Four.

232 High Schools Have Players Selected in 2024 NFL Draft

By

Stephen Patrick

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May 6, 2024

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NEW YORK — May 3, 2024 — With the conclusion of the 2024 NFL Draft, this year’s class of drafted rookies will soon begin life in the NFL. While each drafted rookie enters the NFL from a different background, the one thing they all have in common is an outstanding experience playing high school football. A total of 232 high schools contributed to the 257 players selected in the seven rounds of the April 25-27 Draft.

“Each year, the NFL Draft marks a transition from college football to the NFL,” said NFL Vice President of Football Development ROMAN OBEN. “The Draft represents years of hard work and childhood dreams fulfilled, shared by families and entire communities. Two hundred fifty-seven players were drafted representing 232 different high schools. Many more received phone calls to sign as rookie free agents. As American football continues to gain global appeal, it inspires boys and girls from around the world to dream the NFL dream, catch the passion of playing, and experience the life-transforming development of character, confidence, and resilience unique to football participation.”

BISHOP GORMAN (Las Vegas, Nev.) and IMG ACADEMY (Bradenton, Fla.) led the way with three players selected, while 21 high schools – AVON (Ind.), BLAIR ACADEMY (Blairstown, N.J.), CALABASAS (Calif.), DEERFIELD BEACH (Fla.), DENTON (Texas), GODBY (Tallahassee, Fla.), GONZAGA (Washington, D.C.), GOOD COUNSEL (Olney, Md.), HAMILTON (Chandler, Ariz.), LONE STAR (Frisco, Texas), PINSON VALLEY (Pinson, Ala.), RAVENWOOD (Brentwood, Tenn.), RIVER ROUGE (Mich.), SAINT JOSEPH’S PREP (Philadelphia, Pa.), SAINT THOMAS AQUINAS (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.), SPANISH FORT (Ala.), ST. FRANCES (Baltimore, Md.), TIMBER CREEK (Sicklerville, N.J.), VALOR CHRISTIAN (Highlands Ranch, Colo.), WEDDINGTON (Matthews, N.C.) and WEIKIVA (Apopka, Fla.) – each had two players selected.

“It’s great for my high school and great for the Las Vegas Valley as a whole,“ said Chicago Bears wide receiver ROME ODUNZE, a graduate of Bishop Gorman. “We will continue to represent Vegas and if you’re a coach looking for some ballers you know where to find us! Bear Down.”

IMG Academy, with JC Latham (No. 7 overall) and J.J. McCarthy (No. 10), became the first high school to have two players selected in the top-10 of the same NFL Draft since at least 1970. IMG Academy is the only school to have multiple players drafted in each of the past six years and have produced a first-round selection for the fifth-consecutive draft (Latham and McCarthy in 2024, Nolan Smith in 2023, Evan Neal in 2022, Greg Newsome in 2021 and Cesar Ruiz in 2020).

Gonzaga High School, in Washington, D.C. – with No. 1 overall selection Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears) and No. 11 pick Olu Fashanu (New York Jets) – joined IMG Academy as the only high schools to produce multiple first round selections in 2024.

“It’s exciting to have two guys from Gonzaga get drafted this year,” said Chicago Bears quarterback CALEB WILLIAMS, a graduate of Gonzaga. “I think it speaks to the history and tradition of our great program and hopefully we can have more Eagles drafted in the years to come!”

The breakdown of the 23 high schools that had multiple players drafted by NFL clubs:

HIGH SCHOOL	TOTAL	PLAYERS (NFL TEAM/ROUND)
Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas, Nev.)	3	Rome Odunze (Chicago/1); Jaden Hicks (Kansas City/4); Edefuan Ulofoshio (Buffalo/5)
IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.)	3	JC Latham (Tennessee/1); J.J. McCarthy (Minnesota/1); Xavier Thomas (Arizona/5)
Avon (Ind.)	2	Blake Fisher (Houston/2); Isaac Guerendo (San Francisco/4)
Blair Academy (Blairstown, N.J.)	2	Ray Davis (Buffalo/4); Sanoussi Kane (Baltimore/7)
Calabasas (Calif.)	2	Jermaine Burton (Cincinnati/3); Johnny Wilson (Philadelphia/6)
Deerfield Beach (Fla.)	2	Brandon Dorlus (Atlanta/4); Michael Pratt (Green Bay/7)
Denton (Texas)	2	Brandon Coleman (Washington/3); Ja’Tavion Sanders (Carolina/4)
Godby (Tallahassee, Fla.)	2	Javon Solomon (Buffalo/5); Jaylen Key (New York Jets/7)
Gonzaga (Washington, D.C.)	2	Caleb Williams (Chicago/1); Olu Fashanu (New York Jets/1)
Good Counsel (Olney, Md.)	2	Kris Jenkins (Cincinnati/2); Cam Hart (Los Angeles Chargers/5)
Hamilton (Chandler, Ariz.)	2	Jawhar Jordan (Houston/6); Brenden Rice (Los Angeles Chargers/7)
Lone Star (Frisco, Texas)	2	Jaylan Ford (New Orleans/5); Trey Taylor (Las Vegas/7)
Pinson Valley (Pinson, Ala.)	2	Bo Nix (Denver/1); Kool-Aid McKinstry (New Orleans/2)
Ravenwood (Brentwood, Tenn.)	2	Graham Barton (Tampa Bay/1); Junior Colson (Los Angeles Chargers/3)
River Rouge (Mich.)	2	Ruke Orhorhoro (Atlanta/2); Kamal Hadden (Kansas City/6)
Saint Joseph’s Prep (Philadelphia, Pa.)	2	Marvin Harrison Jr. (Arizona/1); Jeremiah Trotter (Philadelphia/5)
Saint Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.)	2	Dallas Turner (Minnesota/1); Jaden Davis (Arizona/7)
Spanish Fort (Ala.)	2	Kris Abrams-Draine (Denver/5); D.J. James (Seattle/6)
St. Frances (Baltimore, Md.)	2	Chris Braswell (Tampa Bay/2); Blake Corum (Los Angeles Rams/3)
Timber Creek (Sicklerville, N.J.)	2	Tarheeb Still (Los Angeles Chargers/5); Devin Leary (Baltimore/6)
Valor Christian (Highlands Ranch, Colo.)	2	Roger Rosengarten (Baltimore/2); Luke McCaffrey (Washington/3)
Weddington (Matthews, N.C.)	2	Malik Mustapha (San Francisco/4); Will Shipley (Philadelphia/4)
Wekiva (Apopka, Fla.)	2	Renardo Green (San Francisco/2); Tyler Davis (Los Angeles Rams/6)

HIGH SCHOOL STATES WITH MOST NFL PLAYERS DRAFTED IN 2024 PER CAPITA

STATE	POPULATION *	NFL PLAYERS	NFL PLAYERS PER CAPITA
District of Columbia	689,545	4	1 NFL player per 172,386 people
Louisiana	4,657,757	11	1 NFL player per 423,432 people
South Dakota	886,667	2	1 NFL player per 443,334 people
Georgia	10,711,908	23	1 NFL player per 465,735 people
Hawaii	1,455,271	3	1 NFL player per 485,090 people

UNITED STATES	331,449,281	251	1 NFL player per 1,320,515 people
* Based on most recent U.S. Census Data (2020)

STATE BREAKDOWN BY HIGH SCHOOL

STATE	PLAYERS DRAFTED	STATE	PLAYERS DRAFTED
Florida	30	Colorado	2
Texas	24	Iowa	2
Georgia	23	Massachusetts	2
California	18	Oklahoma	2
Louisiana	11	Oregon	2
New Jersey	11	South Dakota	2
Alabama	10	Utah	2
Maryland	10	Washington	2
North Carolina	10	Connecticut	1
Ohio	10	Delaware	1
Arizona	8	Idaho	1
Illinois	7	Kansas	1
Michigan	7	Kentucky	1
Indiana	6	Minnesota	1
Pennsylvania	6	Virginia	1
Mississippi	5	West Virginia	1
Nevada	5
New York	5
District of Columbia	4	International	6
Missouri	4
Tennessee	4
Hawaii	3	TOTAL	257
South Carolina	3
Wisconsin	3

Some interesting notes on high schools in the 2024 NFL Draft:

Thirty-nine states and the District of Columbia each had at least one player drafted.

Florida produced 30 drafted players, the most among all states, and is the state to produce the most drafted players in five of the past seven NFL Drafts (2018-19, 2021, 2023-24). Florida led all states with six first-round selections, including top-10 choices JC Latham (IMG Academy, Bradenton), Michael Penix (Tampa Bay Tech, Tampa) and J.J. McCarthy (IMG Academy, Bradenton).
Over the past seven NFL Drafts (2018-24), schools from Florida (216 total), Texas (206) and California (151) have had the most players selected.

For the 18th time in the past 19 seasons, at least one player who attended high school outside of the United States was selected in the NFL Draft. The 2024 players selected: G Isaiah Adams (Ajax, Ontario, Canada), T Travis Clayton (Basingstoke, England), TE Theo Johnson (Windsor, Ontario, Canada), T Giovanni Manu (Pitt Meadows, British Columbia, Canada), TE Tanner McLachlan (Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada) and P Tory Taylor (Melbourne, Australia).
- Clayton – a member of the International Player Pathway (IPP) Program Class of 2024 and a former rugby player from England – is the third-ever IPP athlete to be drafted, joining Jordan Mailata (2018 NFL Draft, from Australia) and Mortiz Böhringer (2016 NFL Draft, from Germany).

For a state-by-state breakdown of all players selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, click here.

Skip Holtz seeks three-peat for the first time in history

By

Iliyan Lakhani

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May 6, 2024

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skip-holtz-usfl-championship — Photo Cred: SI

An undefeated halfway through the regular season is quite the feat, but Skip Holtz and the Birmingham Stallions have effortlessly dominated their opponents time and time again. The offense operates with precision, while the defense holds strong both on the ground and in the air. These are the qualities of champions, and under Holtz’s guidance, the franchise is poised to achieve unprecedented success in the UFL.

Photo Cred: UFL

Holtz’s strategic prowess strikes fear into the hearts of opposing teams. The coaching staff’s meticulous analysis of game footage shines through as the Stallions execute plays with impeccable timing. A notable instance was their game against the D.C. Defenders, where Holtz cleverly leveraged weather conditions to secure victory with a flawless game-winning drive. While the players executed on the field, it was Holtz’s composed and sharp thinking that laid the foundation for success.

Under Holtz’s leadership, the defense blazes with determination, a testament to his ability to inspire. Every player, whether starting or playing limited snaps, is driven to make an impact in any situation. This was evident in their dominant performance against the Memphis Showboats, where the Stallions’ relentless mentality resulted in a decisive victory, leaving Memphis struggling to gain traction.

Photo Cred: UFL

Winning drives deep into the Stallions’ DNA, and Holtz has consistently emphasized this mentality, particularly in moments of adversity. Yet, it’s Holtz’s adaptability and versatility as a coach that truly distinguish him. He has demonstrated his skill by seamlessly switching quarterbacks, adjusting offensive focus, and exploiting opponents’ weaknesses. He epitomizes an elite head coach and is undoubtedly deserving of the Coach of the Year title.

With only five games remaining, the Stallions appear unstoppable, having overcome every challenge thus far. No team seems capable of besting Birmingham, especially with Holtz and his coaching staff at the helm. While players receive well-deserved praise, it’s Holtz who has played the most pivotal role in their undefeated run. His week-by-week approach to each opponent has proven effective, and the payoff is undeniable.

Colorado Rockies off to historically bad start in 2024 season

By

Augustus Oswald

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May 6, 2024

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After enduring a dismal 59-103 record in 2023, the Rockies couldn’t have started the 2024 season much worse. Predicted to go 60-102 by oddsmakers, their 7-24 start comes as no shock, yet it marks historic ineptitude for Colorado. The Rockies now hold the record for the most consecutive games trailed to start a season, falling behind in their first 31 games. Surpassing the St. Louis Browns’ 28-game mark set in 1910.

Photo Cred: MLB

Holding a 5-0 lead entering the ninth against the lowly Miami Marlins, pitcher Ryan Feltner appeared primed for his first complete-game shutout with just 79 pitches. However, the Marlins rallied, and reliever Justin Lawrence’s collapse led to a heartbreaking 7-6 loss in 10 innings, with Miami not leading until their walk-off single. The Rockies have often been competitive but plagued by close losses.

Of their 24 losses, 11 have come within two runs. Yet, they’ve also endured blowouts, notably a 16-1 Opening Day thrashing by the Arizona Diamondbacks, who scored 14 runs in the third inning, the most in a single inning on Opening Day since 1900. Following a dramatic 10-9 comeback win against the San Diego Padres, they were swept by the struggling Houston Astros in Mexico City. Offensively, the Rockies have faltered, ranking 14th in batting average (.241), 25th in runs scored (113), and 27th in home runs (23), despite playing at hitter-friendly Coors Field.

Their home struggles extend to just 14 homers in 14 games, resulting in a 5-10 home record and a dismal 2-14 on the road. Adding to their woes, they’ve been consistently outscored 37-17 in the first inning. Pitching has been a debacle beyond the first inning, with the Rockies ranking last in team ERA (6.00), WHIP (1.62), and batting average against (.294).

Photo Cred: MLB

Closer Justin Lawrence sports a 6.00 ERA with one blown save, while opponents hit .317 against him. The starting rotation boasts a collective 1-15 record. Though the season is young, the Rockies face significant challenges with their pitching and offense, likely heading towards another 100-plus loss season unless a dramatic turnaround occurs. Nonetheless, fans hope for the continued growth of the team’s young talent and farm system as Colorado rebuilds.

NFL Offseason Workout Program Dates Announced

By

Stephen Patrick

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May 6, 2024

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NEW YORK — May 1, 2024 — Voluntary offseason workout programs are intended to provide training, teaching, and physical conditioning for players. The calendar for 2024 is below. As per Article 21 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, each club’s official, voluntary nine-week offseason program is conducted in three phases: Phase One consists of the first two weeks of the program with activities limited to meetings, strength and conditioning, and physical rehabilitation only.

Phase Two consists of the next three weeks of the program. On-field workouts may include individual or group instruction and drills, as well as “perfect play drills,” and drills and plays with offensive players lining up across from offensive players and defensive players lining up across from defensive players, conducted at a walk-through pace. No live contact or team offense vs. team defense drills are permitted.

Phase Three consists of the next four weeks of the program. Teams may conduct a total of 10 days of organized team practice activity, or “OTAs”. No live contact is permitted, but 7-on-7, 9-on-7, and 11-on-11 drills are permitted.

Article 22 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement stipulates that clubs may hold one mandatory minicamp for veteran players. This minicamp, noted below, must occur during either week three or week four of Phase Three of the offseason program. Each club may hold a rookie football development program for a period of seven consecutive weeks, which in 2024 may begin on May 13. During this period, no activities may be held on weekends, with the exception of one three-day post-Draft rookie minicamp, which may be conducted on either the first or second weekend following the draft.

For specific information and detailed offseason program rules, please see Articles 21 and 22 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, available on nflcommunications.com.

The NFL Offseason Workout Program calendar (dates are subject to change at the discretion of individual clubs):

ARIZONA	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-22, May 28-30, June 3-6
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-12

ATLANTA	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 13-14, May 16, May 20-21, May 23, June 3-4, June 6
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 10-12
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-12

BALTIMORE	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20, May 22-23, May 28, May 30-31, June 3-4, June 6-7
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 3-5

BUFFALO	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-21, May 23, May 28-30, June 3-4, June 6
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-11

CAROLINA	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 3-4, June 6
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-12

CHICAGO	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 4-6
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-11

CINCINNATI	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 28-30, June 3-6
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10

CLEVELAND	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 21-23, May 28-30, June 3-6
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-12

DALLAS	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 21-23, May 29-31
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 4-6
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-11

DENVER	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 21-23, May 28-30, June 3-6
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-12

DETROIT	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 21-23, May 29-31, June 10-12
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 4-6
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-12

GREEN BAY	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 3-4, June 6
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 3-4

HOUSTON	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-21, May 23, May 29-31
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 4-6
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-11

INDIANAPOLIS	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 21-23, May 29-31
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 4-6
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-12

JACKSONVILLE	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 3-6
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 10-12
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-11

KANSAS CITY	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-22, May 28-30, June 4-7
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 4-6

LAS VEGAS	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 3-6
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-11

L.A. CHARGERS	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-21, May 23, May 29-31, June 4-7
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-12

L.A. RAMS	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 3-6
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 10-12
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-11

MIAMI	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 4-6
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-12

MINNESOTA	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 10-13
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 4-6
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-12

NEW ENGLAND	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-21, May 23, May 29-31, June 3-6
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-12

NEW ORLEANS	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 21-23, May 28-30, June 3-6
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-12

N.Y. GIANTS	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 3-4, June 6-7
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 9-11

N.Y. JETS	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 3-4, June 6-7
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 3-5

PHILADELPHIA	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20, May 22-23, May 28, May 30-31
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 4-6
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 3-4

PITTSBURGH	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 21-23, May 28-30, June 3-6
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-12

SAN FRANCISCO	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 4-6
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-11

SEATTLE	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20, May 22-23, May 28, May 30-31, June 3-4, June 6-7
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 3-5

TAMPA BAY	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 21-23, May 28-30, June 4-6
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-12

TENNESSEE	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 10-13
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 4-6
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-12

WASHINGTON	OTA Offseason Workouts:	May 14-15, May 17, May 21-22, May 24, June 4-5. June 7
	Mandatory Minicamp:	June 11-13
	Rookie Minicamp:	May 10-12

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