Xavier Weaver, Former Colorado Buffaloes Wide Receiver, Shows NFL Potential Despite Challenges

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April 1, 2024

Xavier Weaver, a standout wide receiver hailing from Orlando, Florida, made quite the impact in his senior year at the University of Colorado Boulder. Weaver, donning the #10 jersey for the Buffaloes, transferred from the University of South Florida Bulls before the 2023 season and wasted no time in proving his worth. Weaver’s connection with quarterback Shedeur Sanders was evident from the get-go, making waves in CU’s season opener against the #17 TCU Horned Frogs.

Photo Cred: SI

In a thrilling 45-42 road victory, Weaver showcased his skills with 6 receptions for 118 yards, including an impressive 44-yard play, averaging 19.7 yards per reception. This stellar performance was just the beginning for Weaver. The following week, in a home game against Nebraska, he delivered a jaw-dropping 10 receptions for 170 yards, including a 41-yard touchdown, in a convincing 36-14 win. His momentum continued against the rival Colorado State Rams, where he snagged 9 receptions for 98 yards, securing a critical touchdown in a 43-35 double-overtime victory.

As PAC-12 conference play commenced, Weaver remained a force to be reckoned with. Despite facing tough opponents like #10 Oregon and #8 USC, he managed a combined 16 receptions for 104 yards in two closely contested losses. By the end of the season, Weaver tallied an impressive 68 receptions for 908 receiving yards and four touchdowns, boasting an average of 13.4 yards per reception. This marked another standout year for Weaver, following a solid 2022 season with USF, where he accumulated 53 receptions for 718 yards and six touchdowns.

Photo Cred: CU

However, Weaver’s achievements came amidst adversity. He revealed that he played the entire season with a torn labrum, which unfortunately led to his absence from the NFL Combine. Despite this setback, NFL Network’s Lance Zierlein recognizes Weaver’s potential, awarding him a prospect grade of 5.95. Zierlein praises Weaver’s proficiency in route running and envisions a potential future for him in the league as a punt returner, citing his “dangerous punt returner” skills, exceptional field vision, and speed. Weaver notably tallied 132 yards on eight punt returns during the 2023 season.

Nevertheless, challenges persist for Weaver as he enters the NFL draft. Mock drafts project him as an Undrafted Free Agent (UDFA) in a highly competitive year for wide receivers. Zierlein points out that Weaver’s missed time due to injury, including sitting out the final game against Utah, could impact his stock. Additionally, physical corners have been noted to pose a challenge for Weaver during contested catches. Despite these obstacles, Xavier Weaver’s standout performances and undeniable talent on the field position him as a player to watch as the NFL draft approaches.

Seton Hall in Final Four of the NIT, Look to Advance to Finals

By

Sam Cohen

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March 31, 2024

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The Seton Hall Pirates are making a formidable run in the National Invitation Tournament, setting their sights on a bold statement to the NCAA Tournament Committee. Tonight, they face the Georgia Bulldogs with ambitions to secure a spot in the tournament’s final round. This comes on the heels of their impressive 91-68 victory over UNLV, propelling them forward.

Al Amir Dawes has been a standout performer for the Pirates, exemplifying his season’s excellence with a notable performance against UNLV. Dawes tallied 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists, leading the charge for Seton Hall. His performance this season has been a key factor in the team’s success, and his contributions were particularly significant in their recent victory. Jaden Bediako’s efficiency was also on display, as he hit all 5 of his attempts for a total of 11 points. Kadary Richmond added 16 points on 7-of-9 shooting, continuing to assert his leadership on the court.

Photo Cred: Seton Hall

Richmond’s playmaking was also highlighted, with 10 assists complementing his scoring output. The Pirates are now set to clash with the Bulldogs in the NIT semifinals, a matchup that promises to be engaging. Their journey through the tournament has been marked by dominant performances, and a win tonight would place them in the final, a testament to their prowess.

This run has sparked discussions about Seton Hall’s exclusion from the NCAA Tournament, underscoring the ongoing debate about the Big East Conference’s valuation by the selection committee. Tonight’s game is not just about advancing to the finals but also about proving the merit and strength of Seton Hall and the Big East Conference on a larger stage. It will be interesting to see how people react to this run by the Pirates, and if it will transfer over into next season.

Dallas Cowboys and Ezekiel Elliott Open to Reunion

By

Luke Caputo

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March 31, 2024

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Panthers Cowboys Football — Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott gestures to the crowd as he leaves the field after an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Roger Steinman)

In a potential NFL homecoming, sources close to the situation have revealed to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler that the Dallas Cowboys and free agent running back Ezekiel Elliott are exploring a reunion. Elliott, who wrapped up the 2023 season with the New England Patriots, is reportedly in talks with his former team, sparking excitement among fans longing for his return. Could he make a return?

Photo Cred: The Spun

Elliott’s performance with the Patriots last season, where he rushed for 642 yards and scored three touchdowns, has been a focal point of discussions. Despite a modest start, Elliott demonstrated resilience and skill, particularly in the season’s final five games, amassing 213 rushing yards. This surge in performance, especially during the Patriots’ starting running back Rhamondre Stevenson’s absence due to a high-ankle sprain, has reportedly caught the Cowboys’ attention.

The 27-year-old running back’s tenure with the Cowboys, which ended in 2022, was marked by significant achievements, including 876 rushing yards on 231 carries and 12 touchdowns in his final season with the team. Elliott’s departure was a strategic move by Dallas, aimed at managing salary cap space and making room for rising star Tony Pollard. However, with Pollard’s recent move to the Tennessee Titans, the Cowboys find themselves reassessing their running back lineup. As of now, the Cowboys’ running back roster includes Snoop Connor, Deuce Vaughn, Hunter Leupke, Rico Dowdle, and Malik Davis.

Photo Cred: SI

The potential addition of Elliott could shake up the team’s dynamics and possibly reinstate him as the starting running back, a role he held for six seasons during his initial stint with the team. Elliott, the fourth overall pick by the Cowboys in the 2016 NFL Draft, has left an indelible mark on the league and his team. With three Pro Bowl selections and two NFL rushing titles in his first three seasons, Elliott’s career stats boast 8,904 rushing yards and 71 touchdowns, underscoring his impact on the field.

While discussions between Elliott and the Cowboys are ongoing, financial considerations will play a crucial role in any potential agreement. The Cowboys, with $6.7 million in cap space remaining and a conservative approach in the 2024 free agency so far, are weighing their options carefully. As negotiations continue, the outcome remains uncertain. However, the possibility of Elliott donning the Cowboys’ jersey once more has sparked anticipation and debate among the NFL community.

Pat Kelsey Brings Energy and Hope to UofL

By

Stephen Patrick

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March 31, 2024

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Before the announcement of Pat Kelsey’s appointment as the new head coach for the University of Louisville Cardinals’ men’s basketball team, his name wasn’t exactly reverberating through every household in the city. However, all that swiftly changed as news of his arrival spread like wildfire throughout Louisville on a brisk Wednesday afternoon. By the end of an electrifying and spirited introductory news conference held the following day at the illustrious Kueber Center, located within the prestigious confines of the University of Louisville, the entire city seemed to buzz with excitement.

Photo Cred: The Courier Journal

In a spectacle that lasted well over 50 minutes, Kelsey, a man exuding boundless enthusiasm and passion, took center stage amidst a captivated audience of Cardinals fans, generous boosters, and devoted alumni. “I consider it the ultimate job,” he declared with fervor. “It’s the peak and pinnacle of my profession.”

With a coaching tenure spanning an impressive 12 seasons within the competitive realm of NCAA Division I basketball, Kelsey has left an indelible mark, having steered his teams to four appearances in the illustrious NCAA Tournament. His most recent success came this past season with the Charleston team. A Cincinnati native, Kelsey first honed his skills playing high school basketball at both Roger Bacon and Elder High Schools. His collegiate career then flourished at Xavier University under the tutelage of the late Skip Prosser, whom he later served as an esteemed assistant coach at Wake Forest University.

Among the talented players who have thrived under Kelsey’s guidance is Reyne Smith, a sharpshooting guard whose basketball prowess has been on full display during his tenure at Charleston. He now brings his talents to UofL. Standing at an impressive 6 feet 2 inches and weighing in at 190 pounds, Smith emerged as a standout player for the Cougars in the recent season. Logging minutes in all 35 of Charleston’s games, with an impressive 28 starts to his name, he led the team in scoring with an average of 12.8 points per game, while also contributing 2.1 rebounds and 1.7 assists per contest.

Photo Cred: SI

Smith’s stellar performance earned him a well-deserved spot on the All-CAA Second Team, a testament to his undeniable talent and hard work. A master from beyond the arc, Smith’s expertise in three-point shooting is nothing short of remarkable, boasting an impressive 39.4 percent success rate from downtown and an overall field goal percentage of 41.0. Of his 133 successful field goals last season, an astounding 112 came from three-pointers out of a total of 324 attempts.

Hailing from the distant shores of Ulverstone, Australia, Smith has undeniably left an indelible mark on the collegiate basketball scene. Over his remarkable three-year stint with Charleston, he has amassed an impressive array of statistics, tallying 1,212 points, 294 made three-pointers, 192 rebounds, 149 assists, and 68 steals across 102 games, with an impressive 89 starts to his name. As he embarks on this new chapter under the guidance of Coach Kelsey at Louisville, the stage is set for Smith to continue his impressive basketball journey and leave an indelible mark on the Cardinals’ storied legacy.

1-3: Kentucky Collapses Again

By

Andrew Bruner

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March 30, 2024

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maxresdefault2 — Photo Cred: YouTube- Locked On Kentucky

On Thursday, March 23, NCAA tournament brackets worldwide were shaken when the 14th-seeded Oakland Golden Grizzlies upset the third-seeded Kentucky Wildcats. As a current senior at the University of Kentucky, I shared the disappointment felt across campus and beyond, recalling the electric atmosphere in Lexington during past March Madness victories. The sentiment that was commonly echoed on campus and within sports commentary such as CBS Sports was “one and three.”

That figure represents Kentucky’s tournament record over the past four years, dating back to 2022. During this period, we’ve only secured one victory while experiencing first-round eliminations twice. Notably, Coach Cal (John Calipari) and Kentucky failed to qualify for the tournament in 2021. A Final Four appearance in 2015 and the 2014 title runners-up team were the last times they’ve come close to a championship, with their last title coming in 2012. This once-legendary basketball program is now starting to show significant signs of decline.

Photo Cred: The Courier-Journal

Before I dive into critiques of my own team and head coach, let’s take a moment to highlight the significance of Oakland’s victory. Simply put, it was well-deserved. Despite my personal bias and frustration towards the team I support, I couldn’t help but admire the opposition’s performance. They played with intensity, displayed remarkable shooting accuracy from beyond the arc, and Jack Gohlke delivered a standout performance.

The Wildcats attempted to stop them defensively, but they struggled to keep pace. Every time UK seemed to gain momentum and looked like a three-seed, the Golden Grizzlies came soaring back with a decisive response. In an interview, Gohlke himself dismissed the idea that they were the Cinderella story that everyone pegged them to be. I wish he had been speaking the truth—it would have softened the blow of Kentucky’s loss to eventual champions.

Now turning to my team, this defeat may serve as the catalyst behind the end of the Calipari era in Kentucky. While there’s no denying his greatness—he was rightfully inducted into the Hall of Fame nine years ago in 2015—this loss will just add to the mounting pressure he’s facing. Across his nearly 40-year career, where he had stints at UMass, Memphis, and even the New Jersey Nets, Calipari has consistently showcased his coaching talent.

Photo Cred: Spectrum News

With all that being said, it might be time for a change. The introduction of NILs (name, image, likeness) has fundamentally altered the landscape of college basketball. Many college athletes are now returning to school enticed by the new financial incentives. This shift almost goes against Calipari’s traditional approach/philosophy, which has relied on bringing in top-tier talents as freshmen before they go to the NBA (“one-and-done“). However, the departure of Scoot Henderson, one of the top recruits in the 2023 NBA draft, to the G-League instead of attending college is one of the biggest examples of this evolving dynamic.

Gone are the days of players like Anthony Davis and Karl-Anthony Towns elevating Kentucky to the Final Four. The program must now consider alternative strategies, just like other college teams, in order to build sustainable success. Consistency goes a long way, and it’s a trait notably lacking in Calipari’s teams. Recent reports have said that Calipari will, in fact, be returning as the head coach in 2024. While the news is not at all surprising, it is rather disappointing to me and many other Kentucky fans. There’s a great quote by Brad Pitt’s character (Billy Beane) in the movie Moneyball: “Adapt or die.” It’s time for John Calipari to adapt, or else Kentucky will need to pursue a new direction. One win in the last four March Madness appearances is not going to be acceptable.

Photo Cred: YouTube- Locked On Kentucky

Who Can Beat UConn?

College

By

Koby Skillern

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March 29, 2024

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The answer to this question currently, no one can. After winning last year’s championship
UConn is back again dominating whoever they face in the NCAA Tournament.Their prowess is so notable that it’s sparking hyperbolic comparisons to professional teams, highlighting the gap they’ve created between themselves and the rest of the field. The demolition of San Diego State in this year’s tournament, a strong team in its own right, particularly after a brief lead, underscores UConn’s ability to quickly dismantle opponents’ hopes. It’s a testament to their skill, preparation, and perhaps an intimidating aura that seems to engulf teams in crucial moments.

Your analysis places Houston as a distant second, acknowledging the gap UConn has established. Yet, it’s the Creighton BlueJays, with their balanced skill set, that you hint at being the dark horse, despite not being favored to topple the giants. Your emphasis on balance over perfection suggests that in the volatile environment of the NCAA tournament, adaptability and consistency across the board might be key to challenging UConn’s dominance.

Photo Cred: Creighton

The Purdue Boiler Makers scenario is intriguing because it proposes a strategy that turns a potential liability (Zach Edey’s dominance attracting double teams) into an asset by leveraging the space created for proficient shooters. It’s a classic example of how basketball, at its core, is a team sport where the sum can be greater than its parts, especially when faced with a juggernaut like UConn. Your analysis here is strategic and insightful, recognizing that to beat a team like UConn, opponents need to execute a plan that’s both precise and somewhat counterintuitive.

Purdue basketball is Sweet 16 bound in NCAA March Madness

Photo Cred: USA Today

Max Kellerman’s hyperbolic assertion serves as a fun, albeit exaggerated, testament to UConn’s dominance. It’s a reminder of how sports can captivate the imagination and lead to grandiose statements. While UConn’s superiority is clear, the comparison to NBA teams is more a commentary on their dominance in the collegiate realm rather than a literal assessment of their capabilities against professional athletes.

In the world of sports, particularly college basketball, unpredictability is one of the few certainties. Your analysis taps into this beautifully, acknowledging UConn’s current dominance while leaving room for the drama, strategy, and sheer unpredictability that make the NCAA Tournament a perennially captivating spectacle. UConn may go back to back!

Sweet Sixteen Predictions: NC State’s Cinderella run continues? Who wins the 2023 National Championship Rematch? Zach Edey’s last dance?

College

By

Jordan DeBusk

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March 29, 2024

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Womens-March-Madness-Sweet-16-Elite-Eight-Center-Court-Getty-1476130083-H-MAIN-2024 — Photo Cred: ESPN

Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Sweet Sixteen—and this year’s NCAA Tournament is shaping up for an electrifying second weekend. This year, we’ve witnessed astonishing upsets with 14 seed Oakland ousting Kentucky, 13 seed Yale surprising Auburn, and 11 seed Duquesne besting BYU. Yet, as we narrow down to the final 16, only NC State carries the banner for double-digit seeded teams, a rarity that echoes the pattern since 2000, save for 2007’s anomaly. Remarkably, this tournament has favored the strong, with the top two seeds from each region progressing, a phenomenon only seen five times since seeding began in 1979.

The most recent was in 2019, underscoring a competitive balance or perhaps, a year where the elite truly shine. The Sweet Sixteen boasts compelling matchups, notably a rematch of last year’s final between UCONN and San Diego State, with the Huskies eyeing consecutive titles—a feat last seen with Florida in 2006 and 2007. Additionally, the face-off between Illinois’s offense and Iowa State’s defense, according to KenPom’s efficiency metrics, alongside a high-octane clash between North Carolina and Alabama, promises thrilling basketball.

UCONN’s March Continues

After the Huskies dispatched the Aztecs 76-59 in the final of the 2023 NCAA Tournament, they continued building upon it and put together a resume that includes a 33-3 record, a Big East Championship, and wins over four of the other 15 teams left in the tournament. This is a team that has only lost once since December 20th, and they currently show no signs of slowing down in the month of March, as the Huskies have been on a tear throughout their past eight NCAA tournament games, winning by double digits in all of them. I have a feeling with the firepower and depth of this UCONN squad, the reigning champs are going to take another step towards their dreams of back-to-back championships.

Can Cinderella Keep Dancing? NC State, this tournament’s Cinderella, powered by fan-favorite DJ Burns Jr., has defied expectations, surging from a shaky start to defeating top teams. Yet, facing Marquette, known for its sharpshooting, poses their sternest challenge. Despite NC State’s resilience, Marquette’s efficiency might just be the hurdle too high for this Cinderella story.

This will be the toughest test the Wolfpack have faced since defeating UNC in the ACC title game, as Marquette features one of the sharpest shooting squads in the country, as they are hitting on a little over 48% of their field goals. Both of the Golden Eagles top scorers this season, Kam Jones and Tyler Kolek, have a field goal percentage over 58% since the NCAA Tournament began. Although, the defenses they faced in the first two rounds are nothing to be too impressed by, as neither Western Kentucky nor Colorado had a adjusted defensive efficiency rating higher than 48th in the nation, per KenPom. NC State currently find themselves sitting at 76th in KenPom’s adjusted defensive efficiency rating, and are allowing 44% of their opponents field goals to be made.

Can Zach Edey and Purdue Break Through? Zach Edey, eyeing the NBA draft, seeks to lead Purdue past the Sweet Sixteen, a stage that’s eluded them despite past opportunities. Facing Gonzaga, a consistent contender, revives memories of their early-season encounter which Purdue won. However, this matchup will test both teams, especially Edey against Gonzaga’s Graham Ike. Purdue’s offensive might and Gonzaga’s defensive challenges set the stage for a potential breakthrough for the Boilermakers.

It is an interesting Sweet Sixteen matchup already because of the caliber of the teams, but it is made even more intriguing by the fact that these two teams faced off early in the season at the Allstate Maui Invitational in November. In that meeting, Purdue would get the better of Gonzaga with a 73-63 victory, with Edey recording a double-double, scoring 25 points and grabbing 14 rebounds. Both teams have come along way since then, and both have hit a stride since entering the tournament—with both teams winning by 20+ in each of their matchups thus far. This game is going to come down to the battle between Edey and Gonzaga big man, Graham Ike.

As we delve into these matchups, the anticipation is palpable, promising basketball at its finest. May these predictions stand the test of time, unlike my Auburn Final Four forecast. Here’s to an unforgettable Sweet Sixteen!

NFL Offseason Workout Program Dates Announced

By

Stephen Patrick

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March 29, 2024

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When-Does-the-NFL-Season-Start-First-NFL-Game-To-Be-Played-in-September-1-696x464 — Photo Cred: Pro Football Network

NEW YORK — March 29, 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 Phase Three of the offseason program.

New head coaches are entitled to conduct an additional voluntary veteran minicamp. Any voluntary minicamp for veteran players must be conducted prior to the NFL Draft (April 25-27), but no earlier than week three of the club’s offseason workout program and after at least one week of the two weeks of Phase One activities that the clubs may hold pursuant to Article 21. This year, eight clubs will hold voluntary veteran minicamps, as noted below.

Each club may hold a rookie football development program for a period of seven weeks, which in 2024 may begin on May 13. During this period, no activities may be held on weekends, with the exception of one post-Draft rookie minicamp, which may be conducted on either the first or second weekend following the draft. The dates of each club’s post-draft rookie minicamps will be circulated at a later date.

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

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-22, May 28-30, June 3-6

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

ATLANTA

First Day: April 2

Voluntary Minicamp: April 22-24

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 13-14, May 16, May 20-21, May 23, June 3-4, June 6

Mandatory Minicamp: June 10-12

BALTIMORE

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20, May 22-23, May 28, May 30-31, June 3-4, June 6-7

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

BUFFALO

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-21, May 23, May 28-30, June 3-4, June 6

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

CAROLINA

First Day: April 8

Voluntary Minicamp: April 23-25

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 3-4, June 6

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

CHICAGO

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31

Mandatory Minicamp: June 4-6

CINCINNATI

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 28-30, June 3-6

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

CLEVELAND

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 21-23, May 28-30, June 3-6

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

DALLAS

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 21-23, May 29-31

Mandatory Minicamp: June 4-6

DENVER

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 21-23, May 28-30, June 3-6

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

DETROIT

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 21-23, May 29-31, June 10-12

Mandatory Minicamp: June 4-6

GREEN BAY

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 3-4, June 6

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

HOUSTON

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-21, May 23, May 29-31, June 3-4, June 6

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

INDIANAPOLIS

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 21-23, May 29-31

Mandatory Minicamp: June 4-6

JACKSONVILLE

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 3-6

Mandatory Minicamp: June 10-12

KANSAS CITY

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-22, May 28-30, June 4-7

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

LAS VEGAS

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 3-6

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

L.A. CHARGERS

First Day: April 2

Voluntary Minicamp: April 22-24

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-21, May 23, May 29-31, June 4-7

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

L.A. RAMS

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 3-6

Mandatory Minicamp: June 10-12

MIAMI

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31

Mandatory Minicamp: June 4-6

MINNESOTA

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 10-13

Mandatory Minicamp: June 4-6

NEW ENGLAND

First Day: April 8

Voluntary Minicamp: April 23-24

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-21, May 23, May 29-31, June 3-4, June 6-7

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

NEW ORLEANS

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 21-23, May 28-30, June 3-6

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

N.Y. GIANTS

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 3-4, June 6-7

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

N.Y. JETS First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 3-4, June 6-7

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

PHILADELPHIA

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20, May 22-23, May 28, May 30-31

Mandatory Minicamp: June 4-6

PITTSBURGH

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 21-23, May 28-30, June 3-6

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

SAN FRANCISCO

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31

Mandatory Minicamp: June 4-6

SEATTLE

First Day: April 8

Voluntary Minicamp: April 22-24

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20, May 22-23, May 28, May 30-31, June 3-4, June 6-7

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

TAMPA BAY

First Day: April 15

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 21-23, May 28-30, June 4-6

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

TENNESSEE

First Day: April 8

Voluntary Minicamp: April 22-24

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 20-21, May 23, May 28-29, May 31, June 10-13

Mandatory Minicamp: June 4-6

WASHINGTON

First Day: April 2

Voluntary Minicamp: April 22-24

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 14-15, May 17, May 21-22, May 24, June 4-5, June 7

Mandatory Minicamp: June 11-13

Former Missouri Head Coach Cuonzo Martin Hired at Missouri State

By

Ethan Burke

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March 29, 2024

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GeorgiaMissouriBasketball — Photo Cred: Kansas City Star

Former Missouri head coach Cuonzo Martin is set to return to Missouri State (MSU), where he initially launched his head coaching career. Martin’s contract with the Bears spans five years, extending through the 2028-2029 season, and includes a base salary of $600,000. He previously served as the head coach of MSU from 2008 to 2011. At 52 years old, Martin’s most recent coaching stint was with Missouri, where the Tigers compiled a 78-77 record during his tenure in Columbia, including two appearances in the NCAA Tournament.

Photo Cred: Spectrum News

In their most recent tournament appearance, as an eighth seed, MU was defeated by Florida State in the opening round. During his third season, Martin guided Missouri to the NCAA Tournament with a 16-10 (8-8 SEC) record, only to lose a closely contested match against Oklahoma 72-68 in the Round of 64. The Tigers faced a challenging season in Martin’s final year, finishing with a 12-21 overall record, which ultimately led to his dismissal.

Martin enjoyed success during his time with the Bears. In his second season back at MSU, the team secured a spot in the CIT Tournament and emerged as the champions, concluding the season with a 24-12 record. The following season, Martin guided Missouri State to an impressive 26-9 overall record. The Bears clinched their first regular-season Missouri Valley Conference title and reached the Arch Madness championship, falling to Indiana State. Although they fell short of an NCAA Tournament bid, MSU accepted an NIT invitation, advancing to the second round. Martin’s achievements during the 2010-2011 season earned him both the MVC Coach of the Year and the Ben Jobe Award.

Photo Cred: 93.3 KWTO

Throughout his tenure in Springfield, Missouri, Martin amassed a 61-41 record. After his time with the Bears, Martin spent three seasons in Knoxville, Tennessee, leading the Volunteers. During his tenure at UT, he guided Tennessee to two NIT appearances and an NCAA Tournament berth. The Volunteers reached the Sweet 16 in Martin’s final season, narrowly losing to Michigan 73-71. Following the conclusion of UT’s season, the East St. Louis native accepted the head coaching position at the University of California, Berkeley.

Prior to his time in Columbia, Martin spent three seasons at Cal, where the Bears amassed a 62-39 record under his guidance. In his final two seasons at California, Martin led the team to both an NCAA Tournament and an NIT appearance. The Bears’ 2015-2016 squad, led by Jaylen Brown, secured 23 victories during the regular season and earned a No. 4 seed in the NCAA Tournament. Unfortunately, their tournament run was cut short in the Round of 64 with a surprising loss to Hawaii. Martin’s last year with Cal ended with a first-round exit in the NIT tournament.

Real Madrid’s Transfer Targets and Possible XI Summer 2024

By

Yassine Keyou

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March 29, 2024

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Real Madrid has been dominating headlines this season, notably due to their acquisition of star midfielder Jude Bellingham last summer and the ongoing rumors surrounding a potential signing of Kylian Mbappe from Paris Saint-Germain. The anticipation among Madrid fans for the upcoming offseason is palpable, as it’s poised to be one of the club’s most active transfer periods in recent memory.

Speculation is running rampant regarding potential signings, with players like Mbappe, Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies, PSG’s Achraf Hakimi, and Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho all linked to a move to the Santiago Bernabeu. While rumors of Mbappe joining Real Madrid have circulated before, the club’s elite core of superstars makes it an attractive destination for top talent seeking to compete at the highest level.

Photo Cred: YouTube

Sitting comfortably atop LaLiga with an eight-point lead over second-placed Barcelona, Real Madrid’s success this season can be attributed in part to Jude Bellingham’s impact. His contributions, including a league-leading 16 goals and creative playmaking, have been instrumental to the team’s dominance in 2024. Paired with a world-class striker/winger like Mbappe, this team could boast one of the most formidable attacking lineups in soccer for years to come! It would be very reminiscent of their ‘Galacticos’ era.

The prospect of fielding a lineup featuring Brazil’s Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo on the wing, alongside Kylian Mbappe leading the attack, and Bellingham controlling the midfield is thrilling for the fans. Factor in the return of key players such as center-back Eder Militao and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, this club’s potential knows no bounds! Real Madrid could be on the brink of another era of dominance in European football with this exceptional combination of talent.

Photo Cred: OneSoccer

With all that said, here’s how I would predict the Real Madrid starting XI and bench to look like in summer 2024 (see cover photo. Graphic created by Sophia Kussel):

Formation: 4-3-3.

Goalkeeper and captain: Thibaut Courtois

Left back: Alphonso Davies

Center backs: Eder Militao, David Alaba

Right back: Achraf Hakimi

Midfield: Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, Toni Kroos

Forwards: Vinicius Jr. (left wing), Kylian Mbappe (striker), Rodrygo (right wing)

Initially, I predicted that Luka Modric would alternate with Kroos, but there’s a chance that Modric may be on the move, so I went with Kroos.

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