Thursday, April 30, 2020

Sources: NBA urges no testing if no symptoms

The NBA said it is "not appropriate in the current public health environment" for asymptomatic players and staff to be tested for the coronavirus, sources told ESPN.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29121493/nba-advises-no-coronavirus-tests-players-staff-symptoms

Bowlsby fears virus may roar back, disrupt season

Big 12 commissioner Bob Bowlsby said Thursday he's optimistic about college football starting in the fall, but is skeptical of making it through the entire season without interruption in the event the coronavirus "comes roaring back" during flu season.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/29120711/big-12-bob-bowlsby-fears-virus-come-roaring-back-disrupt-season

Meeting crasher: Ferrell gives Seahawks a laugh

With NFL facilities shut down due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Seattle Seahawks are holding video conferences in lieu of in-person meetings that would normally take place at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29121195/will-ferrell-sits-greg-olsen-seahawks-video-conference

Rejected! Spieth's 'ace' denied by spacer in cup

Jordan Spieth drained an apparent hole-in-one Thursday, only to see it bounce back out thanks to a spacer that was placed within the cup for safety purposes.

source https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/29120912/jordan-spieth-denied-hole-one-thanks-spacer-placed-cup

Broncos' Miller says he's now 'negative' for virus

Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller tweeted that he was negative for the coronavirus on Thursday, two weeks after announcing he had been diagnosed with the virus.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29120762/denver-broncos-lb-von-miller-says-now-negative-coronavirus

Inside the NBA's urgent decisions as it tries to finish this season

After nearly two months without basketball, commissioner Adam Silver is flooded with ideas. Here is what the league is considering as the clock ticks.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29119309/inside-nba-urgent-decisions-tries-finish-season

A first-round QB?! Inside Packers' gamble on Jordan Love and Aaron Rodgers

The Packers have been here before, but that doesn't make it any less complicated. Here's how they planned for the future while potentially straining a Hall of Fame present.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29117914/a-first-round-qb-packers-gamble-jordan-love-aaron-rodgers

Should Wilder step aside and let Fury face Joshua next?

Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua are negotiating a heavyweight unification fight, but with Fury contractually obligated to face Deontay Wilder next, they need Wilder to step aside.

source https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/29118959/should-deontay-wilder-step-aside-let-tyson-fury-face-anthony-joshua-next-wins-fight

Dota 2's The International delayed due to pandemic

One of the biggest esports events of the year will be delayed due to the coronavirus.

source https://www.espn.com/esports/story/_/id/29120253/dota-2-international-delayed-due-pandemic

Women's college basketball transfer rankings for 2020-21 and 2021-22

The uncertainty about the status of transfers for the 2020-21 season has not slowed the transfer market. Here are the top names seeking new homes.

source https://www.espn.com/womens-college-basketball/story/_/id/29112607/women-college-basketball-transfer-rankings-2020-21-2021-22

Ranking the 25 best college basketball coaching hires of the last 25 years

Which active college coaches were memorable hires? From Roy to Coach Cal to Penny, we look at the best since 1995.

source https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/29108472/ranking-25-best-college-basketball-coaching-hires-last-25-years

How the coronavirus pandemic has given leverage to NHL players

A strange thing has happened as the league and NHLPA consider when and how to reopen the season.

source https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/29115855/how-coronavirus-pandemic-given-leverage-nhl-players

Source: Bengals releasing 9-year starter Dalton

The Bengals are releasing Andy Dalton, who served as the team's starting quarterback for the past nine seasons, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29116803/bengals-releasing-andy-dalton-drafting-joe-burrow

Bilas: NCAA stance on name, image and likeness amounts to lip service, half-measure

The NCAA's attempt to cede some long-awaited ground to players falls well short, and comes far too late.

source https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/29113994/ncaa-stance-name-image-likeness-amounts-lip-service-half-measure

Seven ways the NBA has changed since MJ's Bulls

The NBA is completely different now than it was two decades ago.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29113310/seven-ways-nba-changed-michael-jordan-bulls

Michigan vs. Ohio State: Debating the best games and moments in the rivalry's history

Bill Connelly and Mark Schlabach discuss the Wolverines and Buckeyes through the years to prime fans for the rebroadcast of their 2016 double-overtime classic on Thursday night (7 p.m. ET, ESPN and ESPN app).

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/29110099/michigan-vs-ohio-state-debating-best-games-moments-rivalry-history

Shane Mosley: The day I almost KO'd Floyd Mayweather

Ten years ago, Shane Mosley landed two powerful right hands that wobbled Floyd Mayweather in a big second round. But when the round ended, so did Mosley's chances.

source https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/29105881/shane-mosley-day-almost-kod-floyd-mayweather

The uncertain future for John Augenstein and top amateur golfers everywhere

He was supposed to play in the Masters, then turn pro later that summer. Now what? Like everyone else, John Augenstein has to wait and see.

source https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/29108982/the-uncertain-future-john-augenstein-top-amateur-golfers-everywhere

Sources: PSG to be crowned Ligue 1 champions

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source https://www.espn.com/soccer/paris-saint-germain/story/4090528/psg-crowned-champions-as-ligue-1-cancelled-marseille-and-rennes-in-champions-league

Meet the 2021 NFL draft QB class: Names to know, potential landing spots

Trevor Lawrence and Justin Fields headline a strong 2021 NFL draft quarterback class. Who are the names to know, and which NFL teams might be in the market next year?

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2021/story/_/id/29112470/2021-nfl-draft-qb-class-early-look-eight-names-know-potential-landing-spots

How weed became 'whatever': Leagues are ditching old policies

The marijuana stigma is eroding, and sports leagues have adapted. The NFL's new approach that focuses on treatment -- not punishment -- has become the norm.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29114415/future-marijuana-drug-policy-nfl-pro-sports

'This is who I am': Cowboy ready for UFC 249, moving past deflating Conor loss

Cowboy Cerrone hit a low point after his loss to Conor McGregor, but the veteran has reignited his competitive fire in time for UFC 249.

source https://www.espn.com/mma/ufc/story/_/id/29112981/donald-cowboy-cerrone-ready-ufc-249-moving-deflating-conor-mcgregor-loss

Love. Hurts. Barnwell makes sense of two controversial QB draft picks

Green Bay and Philadelphia surprised most everyone by taking quarterbacks early in the draft.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29113276/2020-nfl-draft-surprises-why-did-packers-eagles-draft-quarterbacks-jordan-love-jalen-hurts

Is the Astros' title tarnished? Is Jeter overrated? We settle the biggest debate for all 30 MLB teams

From which franchise icon was better to playing what-if in crucial moments gone wrong, it's our turn to have the final word in your favorite club's ultimate argument.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29105966/is-astros-title-tarnished-jeter-overrated-settle-biggest-debate-all-30-teams

The Zion-Lonzo connection has the Pelicans -- and the NBA -- eager for more

It took less than 500 minutes together on the court for Ball and Williamson to become the NBA's most exciting alley-oop partnership.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29071896/the-zion-williamson-lonzo-ball-connection-pelicans-nba-eager-more

The ESPN Daily podcast: Ricky Williams and marijuana policy in sports

Former NFL RB Ricky Williams recounts how his marijuana use once dominated football headlines.

source https://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/27852002/the-espn-daily-podcast-how-listen-episode-guide-more

Amid coronavirus shutdown, English players' union and clubs wary of gaming addiction risk

Online gaming has been popular among locked-down Premier League stars, but they must be aware of the potential dangers of playing for too long.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/english-premier-league/story/4089843/amid-coronavirus-shutdown-english-players-union-and-clubs-wary-of-gaming-addiction-risk

Brit. veteran, 100, honored by F1, WWE, Cricket

Captain Tom Moore, a World War Two veteran, has been honored by sports stars across England.

source https://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/29115797/british-veteran-captain-tom-honoured-f1-wwe-cricket-fundraiser-hits-30m

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Gronk: Bucs playbook comment was just a joke

Rob Gronkowski went on Twitter on Wednesday to clarify that a comment he made over the weekend suggesting he had received the Bucs' playbook before his trade was made in jest.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29115066/bucs-rob-gronkowski-says-playbook-comment-made-jest

7 sue NCAA, allege negligence in sexual assaults

Seven women who allege they were sexually assaulted by male athletes have filed a lawsuit against the NCAA, accusing the organization of negligence, fraud and breach of contract.

source https://www.espn.com/college-sports/story/_/id/29114869/ncaa-sued-7-women-failure-protect-alleged-sexual-assaults

Showalter: Players feed off emotion from fans

Buck Showalter, who managed the Orioles in the only game in MLB history played without spectators, said Wednesday on Spain and Company on ESPN Radio that having games without fans would affect players, who feed off the emotions of the crowd.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29114814/players-need-emotional-flicker-fans-provide-buck-showalter-says

LeBron backs prime-time tribute for HS '20 class

LeBron James is helping to present a primetime special that will honor the high school class of 2020 with commencement addresses, celebrity cameos and more.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29114418/lebron-james-backs-prime-tv-special-graduating-high-school-seniors

Dream Team builder: MJ never discussed Thomas

Rod Thorn, who helped put together the Dream Team for the 1992 Olympics, said Michael Jordan never spoke to him about leaving Isiah Thomas off the roster.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29112818/dream-team-architect-rod-thorn-michael-jordan-never-discussed-isiah-thomas

March wagers down 76% at Nevada sportsbooks

Compared to March 2019, wagers at Nevada sportsbooks dropped 76% last month, as the coronavirus pandemic halted professional sports.

source https://www.espn.com/chalk/story/_/id/29112795/without-pro-sports-nevada-sportsbooks-report-76-drop-march-wagers

NCAA group supports player endorsement plan

An NCAA working group supports athlete endorsement deals with certain conditions, such as not using the school's logo.

source https://www.espn.com/college-sports/story/_/id/29112263/ncaa-group-oks-conditional-player-endorsements

Matthew Berry's Love/Hate, 2020 NFL Draft Edition

Matthew Berry gives players the Love/Hate treatment coming out of the 2020 NFL draft, identifying those who have gained or lost the most fantasy football value.

source https://www.espn.com/fantasy/football/story/_/id/29109636/matthew-berry-fantasy-football-love-hate-2020-nfl-draft-edition

How to watch the 2019 College World Series finals

On Wednesday, ESPNU will air Game 11 of the CWS, plus all three CWS final games between Michigan and Vanderbilt.

source https://www.espn.com/college-sports/story/_/id/29105532/how-watch-2019-college-world-series-finals

Sources: Number of EPL players oppose restart

A growing number of Premier League players do not want to play soccer during the coronavirus pandemic in what is a major blow to the league's hopes of resuming the 2019-20 season, sources told ESPN.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/english-premier-league/story/4090323/coronavirus-premier-league-on-collision-course-with-players-over-restart-plans-sources

Manny Ramirez, 48, hopeful for return in Taiwan

Manny Ramirez has his sights set on returning to baseball with the Chinese Professional Baseball League in Taiwan, where he briefly played in 2013.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29112258/former-boston-red-sox-star-manny-ramirez-hoping-return-baseball-chinese-league

Good boy: How Belichick dog became draft star

Star of NFL Draft night: How Bill Belichick's dog Nike became a star

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29112134/how-patriots-coach-bill-belichick-dog-became-star-nfl-draft-night

Ariel Helwani on why Dominick Cruz shouldn't be overlooked vs. Henry Cejudo

Dominick Cruz doesn't need a belt to make him happy, but don't dismiss his chances to regain the bantamweight strap on May 9.

source https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/29101902/ariel-helwani-why-dominick-cruz-overlooked-vs-henry-cejudo

ESPN 2020 basketball recruiting player rankings

Jalen Green holds at No. 1 in the final ESPN 100 rankings for 2020, but Cade Cunningham (Oklahoma State commit) overtakes Evan Mobley (USC) at No. 2.

source http://www.espn.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/playerrankings/_/view/espnu100/sort/rank/class/2020

Answering all your questions about the state of recruiting

The pandemic has wiped out spring recruiting events and placed summer events in peril. Here are the implications.

source https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/29108408/answering-your-questions-coronavirus-pandemic

A spring season? No fans? What will college football look like in 2020?

We talked to dozens of coaches, athletic directors and conference commissioners for a comprehensive sense of where things stand for this year's college football season. The only consensus is that no one knows -- but they need to find a way to play.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/29088227/how-coronavirus-affect-college-football-season-2020

Inside the virtual 2020 NFL draft: 10 GMs on what they learned

Here's how the event unfolded for those doing the drafting.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2020/story/_/id/29110271/stories-virtual-2020-nfl-draft-10-gms-learned

Flashback: How Tim Duncan, Spurs' majestic 2014 Finals changed the NBA forever

Inside the despair, desperation and breathtaking wizardry that brought a title back to San Antonio.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/playoffs/2015/story/_/page/PresentsSpursHeat/how-spurs-2014-finals-performance-changed-nba-forever

LSAT prep, DJ sets and virtual golf: How NBA players are staying sharp

Players are finding creative ways to stay engaged during the league's hiatus. And one might even be law school-bound.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29105432/lsat-prep-dj-sets-virtual-golf-how-nba-players-staying-sharp

Tuesday, April 28, 2020

Chiefs' Breeland jailed in S.C. on multiple charges

Chiefs cornerback Bashaud Breeland, who started 15 regular-season games in 2019, was jailed in South Carolina on multiple charges Tuesday.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29110216/chiefs-cornerback-bashaud-breeland-faces-multiple-charges-south-carolina

LSU lands Harvard OL Shanahan as grad transfer

Liam Shanahan, an All-Ivy selection on the offensive line while at Harvard, has joined LSU as a graduate transfer. He is eligible to play this season for the Tigers.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/29110426/lsu-lands-harvard-ol-liam-shanahan-grad-transfer

Tagovailoa, Lamar Jackson react to 'Longest Yard' look-alike

The Dolphins quarterback bears an uncanny resemblance to a character in the 2005 prison football movie.

source https://www.espn.com/blog/miami-dolphins/post/_/id/30978/tua-tagovailoa-lamar-jackson-react-to-longest-yard-look-alike

205 early-entry prospects declare for 2020

The NBA informed teams on Tuesday that 205 players have filed as early-entry candidates for the 2020 NBA draft.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29109764/nba-draft-205-early-entry-prospects-declare-2020

TCU's Patterson making an album in quarantine

With practices and workouts on hold in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, TCU coach -- and songwriter -- Gary Patterson is using his rare free time to make an album with the help of a recording artist.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/29110298/tcu-coach-songwriter-gary-patterson-using-rare-make-album

Can Jameis Winston revive career in audition to be Drew Brees' heir?

Teddy Bridgewater rebooted his career; can Winston do the same? The Saints are taking a flier to see if the former No. 1 pick can elevate his game.

source https://www.espn.com/blog/new-orleans-saints/post/_/id/33130/can-jameis-winston-revive-career-in-audition-to-be-drew-brees-heir

Sources: Overwatch League MVP Sinatraa to retire, join Sentinels VALORANT team

Jay "sinatraa" Won, who won an Overwatch League title with the San Francisco Shock, is leaving the organization and game to become a VALORANT pro.

source https://www.espn.com/esports/story/_/id/29109603/sources-overwatch-league-mvp-sinatraa-retire-join-sentinels-valorant-team

Stuck inside with: Call of Duty as a beginner

Since we're all stuck inside, we're exploring Call of Duty: Modern Warfare through the eyes of a first-time player.

source https://www.espn.com/esports/story/_/id/29107798/call-duty-modern-warfare-beginners-guide

NFL: Brady's house call didn't violate league rules

The NFL investigated and determined that Tom Brady's visit to the house of Bucs offensive coordinator Byron Leftwich did not violate the league's "dead period" prior to the virtual offseason program.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29108603/nfl-says-tom-brady-house-call-bucs-offensive-coordinator-violate-league-rules

Ex-Barcelona wonderkid Bojan hopes he can find happiness, 'freedom' with Montreal Impact

Bojan Krkic was once dubbed 'the next Messi,' now almost 30, the former La Masia phenom looks to have finally found peace and happiness in Montreal.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/major-league-soccer/story/4089035/ex-barcelona-wonderkid-bojan-hopes-he-can-find-happinessfreedom-with-montreal-impact

Source: Ravens to add newly released OL Fluker

Two days after he was released by the Seahawks, free agent D.J. Fluker reached an agreement with the Ravens, a source confirmed to ESPN's Jamison Hensley.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29108221/ravens-free-agent-offensive-lineman-dj-fluker-agree-deal

PM: French soccer leagues won't finish seasons

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source https://www.espn.com/soccer/french-ligue-1/story/4090136/coronavirus-french-pm-announces-end-of-ligue-1-ligue-2-seasons

Former boxing champion trades gloves for clippers to get by during pandemic

Former world titleholder Mario Rodriguez left his job as a boxing trainer to open a barber shop in Mexico.

source https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/29104660/former-boxing-champion-trades-gloves-clippers-get-pandemic

O's Mancini doubts he'll be able to play in 2020

If Major League Baseball returns in 2020, it likely will be without Baltimore Orioles star outfielder Trey Mancini, he wrote Tuesday in the Players' Tribune.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29107732/orioles-trey-mancini-says-colon-cancer-stage-3-faces-six-months-chemo

Bracketology: Texas moves up to No. 4 line

The commitment of top-10 prospect Greg Brown has Shaka Smart and the Longhorns ascending to the No. 4 seed line in Joe Lunardi's bracket projection.

source https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/bracketology

Behind the Bracket: No. 1 seed projections have a historic look

Five of college basketball's top blue bloods are missing from the top line,

source https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/29107447/bracketology-ncaa-tournament-no-1-seed-projections-historic-look

U.K. sports minister: Premier League will return 'ASAP'

The U.K. government's cabinet minister for sport said he has been in talks with the Premier League with the aim of re-starting matches.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/english-premier-league/story/4089950/premier-league-up-and-running-as-soon-as-possible-uk-sports-minister

Source: Chiefs release P Colquitt after 15 years

Punter Dustin Colquitt, the longest-tenured member of the Kansas City Chiefs, has been released, according to a source.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29107537/source-chiefs-release-punter-dustin-colquitt-15-years

'That's the guy!' The arrival of Albert Pujols

In 2001, nobody expected Albert Pujols to become Albert Pujols. But it didn't take long to realize something special was happening in St. Louis.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29070847/tim-kurkjian-baseball-fix-guy-arrival-albert-pujols

Pat Perez has thoughts, on the PGA Tour's possible return, Tiger Woods and more

Pat Perez hasn't picked up a golf club since sports got shut down. He's not in a hurry to. He thinks the PGA Tour shouldn't hurry back, either. But that's just one of the things on the mind of one of the Tour's most outspoken players.

source https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/29103403/pat-perez-thoughts-pga-tour-possible-return-tiger-woods-more

Trade and cut candidates for all 32 NFL teams: Barnwell picks post-draft nominees

The Packers might not have room for Jamaal Williams. Dante Pettis could be out in San Francisco. Here's how the NFL draft shook loose trade and cut candidates.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29101985/32-nfl-players-most-likely-cut-traded-2020-nfl-draft

Fifth-year option predictions for 2017 first-rounders: Who will get picked up?

The Bears, Bengals and Broncos are among the teams that have big contract decisions coming soon.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29104773/fifth-year-option-predictions-2017-nfl-first-round-picks-next-mitchell-trubisky-others

One wild record you probably didn't know for all 30 MLB teams

From a pitcher with a nine-RBI game to an infielder you've never heard of going 7-for-7, these are the marks from every team that you'll have to see to believe.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29101206/one-wild-record-probably-know-all-30-mlb-teams

Ranking the Bulls' best title teams

Our experts rank the best Bulls championship teams.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/page/bullstitle29079270/ranking-chicago-bulls-best-nba-championship-teams

Viewers guide: Yankees-Red Sox ALCS thriller goes out with a Boone

The stakes and tension couldn't be higher. Game 7. Yankee Stadium. Pedro Martinez. Roger Clemens. Grady Little. And Aaron Boone.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29103857/viewers-guide-yankees-red-sox-alcs-thriller-comes-aaron-boone

NHL Viewers Club: 'Kings Ransom'

We rewatch the Peter Berg-directed 30 for 30 documentary that explores when Wayne Gretzky got traded to L.A.

source https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/29106361/nhl-viewers-club-kings-ransom

Sources: Lakers in touch with city about workouts

The Lakers and the Los Angeles mayor's office have been in contact to talk about potentially opening the practice facility for players before the shelter-at-home order for the city expires May 15, sources say.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29106891/lakers-touch-la-mayor-office-potential-workouts

Monday, April 27, 2020

Pats' Rohrwasser to remove controversial tattoo

Patriots rookie kicker Justin Rohrwasser said he is removing a tattoo on his arm associated with a right-wing militia group because it doesn't represent who he is.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29106692/patriots-draftee-justin-rohrwasser-remove-controversial-tattoo

Assistant GM says Saints a great fit for Jameis

Jameis Winston and the Saints have yet to finalize their pending deal, but assistant GM Jeff Ireland made the case for why it's such a good fit for both sides during a radio appearance Monday.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29106518/saints-assistant-gm-jeff-ireland-says-team-great-fit-jameis-winston

Zion not taking break in quarantine: He's ready

In an interview with TNT's Ernie Johnson, Zion Williamson talked about staying in shape in case the NBA season does resume and said it wouldn't take him long to be prepared to play.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29106379/zion-williamson-exploiting-fully-recover-get-peak-shape

Source: Giants place rare UFA tender on Golden

The Giants elected to place a seldom used unrestricted free-agent tender on outside linebacker Markus Golden, a source told ESPN's Field Yates.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29106160/giants-place-rare-ufa-tender-olb-markus-golden-source-says

Wings give sanitation devices to GM for masks

When General Motors repurposed one of its dormant plants in Warren, Michigan to produce masks for front-line workers, it needed some help for a crucial step: disinfecting. So the company turned to the hockey community for an assist.

source https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/29103751/red-wings-give-sanitation-devices-gm-masks

Best of the best: Tennis players' viral challenges

No tennis? No problem. Players like Roger Federer, Serena Williams and Andy Murray have turned to social media to show off their skills from their homes.

source https://www.espn.com/tennis/story/_/id/29083801/top-tennis-stars-including-roger-federer-andy-murray-go-viral-creative-challenges

What big fights do we want to see? Bold predictions for when boxing resumes

When boxing returns, the sport will have an opportunity to capture audiences like never before. What are the big fights we want to see? Will the fighters be ready?

source https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/29086759/what-big-fights-do-want-see-bold-predictions-boxing-resumes

Watch the best games of Muffet McGraw's career at Notre Dame

Muffet McGraw stunned the basketball world with her retirement last week, so we relive some of her most memorable wins on the court.

source https://www.espn.com/womens-college-basketball/story/_/id/29101312/watch-best-games-muffet-mcgraw-career-notre-dame

The SEC remains king, and more takeaways from the NFL draft

When it came to the NFL draft, the SEC ruled once again, Las Vegas continued raiding the 2019 national title game and the Indianapolis Colts learned to #RespectTheSpecs.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/29101243/college-football-takeaways-2020-nfl-draft

Tim Kurkjian's Baseball Fix: Bruce Bochy has a sense of humor, and a big head

Sure, he could manage. After all, he was three World Series rings. But he also had self-deprecating humor and a head so big he had to travel with his own helmet.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29070656/tim-kurkjian-baseball-fix-bruce-bochy-sense-humor-big-head

Magnus Carlsen, game-changer

Chess' reigning superstar talks of his ambitions to professionalise chess, his rivals and not treating defeat as an option.

source https://www.espn.com/chess/story/_/id/29097362/magnus-carlsen-gamechanger

The grandmaster diet: How to lose weight while barely moving

Inside the very real, very bizarre metabolic phenomenon gripping chess.

source https://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/27593253/why-grandmasters-magnus-carlsen-fabiano-caruana-lose-weight-playing-chess

Taurasi: 'Where are the rich women' investors?

Diana Taurasi said Saturday that she'd like to be in sports ownership after she retires from playing and that she is disappointed in wealthy women for what she sees as a lack of support for women's professional sports.

source https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/29102056/diana-taurasi-wants-enter-ownership-questions-lack-women-investing-sports

Biggest post-draft questions for all 32 NFL teams

From the Vikings' 15 picks to the Saints' four, every team filled holes in the NFL draft. NFL Nation reporters identify what's left to do.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/page/nfl_postdraft2020/2020-nfl-draft-biggest-post-draft-questions-all-32-teams

Lowe: How Toni Kukoc went from Dream Team nemesis to '90s Bulls hero

The Bulls' unsung star shares his thoughts on "The Last Dance," his famous teammates and his Hall of Fame chances.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29072197/toni-kukoc-talks-michael-jordan-scottie-pippen-last-dance-chicago-bulls

'I miss baseball every day': What a Nolan Arenado game day looks like with MLB on hold

The Rockies star shares what a normal day in April was like and how he spends them now, waiting for baseball's return.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29079793/i-miss-baseball-every-day-nolan-arenado-game-day-looks-mlb-hold

The NHL's coronavirus pause: Where the games could be played, latest on the draft, more

The neutral site idea is not happening. Here are the cities that could host games. Plus, what's going on with the 2020 draft?

source https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/29101947/the-nhl-coronavirus-pause-where-games-played-latest-draft-more

Bale re-creates famous Champions League final goal vs. Liverpool at home

Star players have found themselves at a loose end. How are they filling their time?

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/blog-the-toe-poke/story/4089373/coronavirus-lockdown-real-madrids-gareth-bale-recreates-famous-champions-league-final-goal-vs-liverpool-at-home

How to watch MNF Classics: No revenge for Wade Phillips vs. Bills

Phillips talks about the memorable Monday night game on Oct. 8, 2007.

source https://www.espn.com/blog/dallas-cowboys/post/_/id/4771360/how-to-watch-mnf-classics-no-revenge-for-wade-phillips-vs-bills

F1 'increasingly confident' of summer start for 2020 season

Formula One boss Chase Carey says the championship has growing faith in its plans to host a 15-18 season starting in Europe during the summer.

source https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/29102747/f1-increasingly-confident-summer-start-2020-season

Gerrard, Suarez lead Premier League's nearly men

Steven Gerrard is in a band of great players to not win the Premier League. On the anniversary of his slip vs Chelsea, we list the best to miss out.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/english-premier-league/story/4088221/gerrardsuarez-lead-premier-league-nearly-men-who-never-won-a-title

Sunday, April 26, 2020

Bulls tap 76ers' Eversley for GM job, sources say

The Bulls are hiring 76ers executive Marc Eversley to be the franchise's new general manager, league sources told ESPN.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29102593/marc-eversley-reaches-deal-join-bulls-reshaped-front-office-gm-sources-say

NBA stars react to wild Rodman moments in "The Last Dance"

CJ McCollum, Ja Morant and Andre Iguodala share their thoughts on the life and times of Dennis Rodman.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29101946/nba-stars-react-episode-3-4-last-dance

Jordan: I hate the 'Bad Boys' Pistons to this day

Decades after the Pistons stalled Michael Jordan's ascending stardom by bouncing the Bulls from the playoffs in three straight postseasons, Jordan admitted he still harbors animosity for the "Bad Boys" team that threatened to derail his success.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29102510/michael-jordan-says-hates-bad-boys-detroit-pistons

Our NBA experts' biggest takeaways from episodes 3 and 4 of 'The Last Dance'

Learn about Dennis Rodman's antics and Michael Jordan's prime nemesis, the Detroit Pistons.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29101623/espn-michael-jordan-documentary-big-takeaways-episodes-3-4-last-dance

How Phil Jackson is influencing today's NBA coaches

Playbook questions? Big personalities? Title aspirations? Those are times when NBA coaches solicit Phil Jackson.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29101166/how-phil-jackson-coaching-legacy-influencing-nba

Dallas Empire win second Call of Duty League title of season

The Dallas Empire defeated the Atlanta FaZe this weekend 3-1 to win their second title of 2020.

source https://www.espn.com/esports/story/_/id/29101953/dallas-empire-beat-atlanta-faze-second-title

Romo part of 54-hole fundraising event this week

A 54-hole fundraising tournament involving a handful of Dallas-area pros and top amateurs, including former Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo, will take place this week, with entry fees earmarked for the caddies at Maridoe Golf Club in Carrollton, Texas.

source https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/29101610/tony-romo-take-part-54-hole-fundraising-tournament-week

Tulane guard Hightower charged with murder

Teshaun Hightower, the Green Wave's leading scorer in 2019-20 after transferring from Georgia, was arrested Saturday and charged with murder in connection with a homicide in Stockbridge, Georgia, earlier this month.

source https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/29101453/tulane-guard-teshaun-hightower-charged-murder-georgia

Tennessee lures top football recruit in Alabama

Tennessee Volunteers added a big piece to its 2021 recruiting class Sunday when defensive end Dylan Brooks announced his commitment to the Volunteers.

source https://www.espn.com/college-sports/recruiting/football/story/_/id/29101577/tennessee-lures-de-dylan-brooks-top-recruit-state-alabama

Virtual draft shatters records with 55M viewers

Each day of the 2020 NFL draft set records, with coverage across all of the rounds up more than 30% over 2019.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29101466/virtual-nfl-draft-draws-55-million-viewers-league-says

Team SoloMid officially re-sign Doublelift

Yiliang "Doublelift" Peng rejoins former TSM teammates Søren "Bjergsen" Berg and Vincent "Biofrost" Wang.

source https://www.espn.com/esports/story/_/id/29101367/team-solomid-officially-re-sign-doublelift

Cutler, Cavallari to divorce after decade together

Reality star Kristin Cavallari and former NFL quarterback Jay Cutler are divorcing, they announced.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29101301/jay-cutler-kristin-cavallari-announce-divorce-decade-together

Ravens' Brown uses himself to beat Snoop Dogg

Marquise "Hollywood" Brown used himself in Madden to score two touchdowns and beat Snoop Dogg.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29101167/ravens-brown-uses-beat-snoop-dogg

Newman says he's ready when racing resumes

Ryan Newman said he'll be ready when NASCAR resumes, as early as May 17. He hasn't been medically cleared, NASCAR says.

source https://www.espn.com/racing/story/_/id/29101163/ryan-newman-says-ready-race-nascar-resumes

Saints to sign QB Hill through 2021, source says

The Saints are signing Taysom Hill to a $21 million extension through 2021, a source says, on the same day they closed in on a deal with Jameis Winston.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29101060/new-orleans-saints-sign-qb-taysom-hill-deal-2021

English football faces grim future

The coronavirus pandemic might fundamentally change English football's lower leagues.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/english-premier-league/story/4089034/english-football-faces-grim-future-coronavirus-impact-on-lower-leagues

Louisville WR signee Rentz, 18, shot and killed

Louisville signee Dexter Rentz was shot and killed in Orlando.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/29100913/louisville-wr-signee-dexter-rentz-shot-killed

Everton 'appalled' Kean attended house party

Everton 'appalled' Kean attended house party

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/everton/story/4089204/coronavirus-everton-appalled-at-moise-kean-house-party

Top 10 controversial transfers: Van Persie to Man United, Figo to Real Madrid

Spite, broken promises, moves to rivals. These are the hunting grounds of some of the most controversial transfers in the history of world football.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/soccer-transfers/story/4088531/van-persie-to-manchester-unitedfigo-to-realbaggio-to-juventus-top-controversial-transfers-list

Coronavirus lockdown: Man City striker Aguero reacts exactly like FIFA character

With almost all football off because of the coronavirus, star players have found themselves at a loose end.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/blog-the-toe-poke/story/4089205/coronavirus-lockdown-man-city-striker-aguero-reacts-exactly-like-fifa-character

Dutch league canceled: Ajax denied title

The 2019-20 season in the Netherlands has been canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic, with Ajax denied the league title.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/ajax-amsterdam/story/4088830/coronavirus-sees-2019-20-dutch-season-cancelled-with-ajax-denied-title

Sources: QB Winston, Saints discussing contract

Former Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston and the Saints are discussing a deal, sources told ESPN.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29100682/sources-qb-jameis-winston-saints-discussing-contract

Referees, judges, fans wearing face masks headline boxing card in Nicaragua

A boxing event with fans in the stands took place Saturday night in Nicaragua with strict measures due to the coronavirus pandemic.

source https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/29099869/referees-judges-fans-wearing-face-masks-headline-boxing-card-nicaragua

Saturday, April 25, 2020

Source: RB Jones, shot in '18, signs with Seattle

Anthony Jones, who was seriously injured in a drive-by shooting in 2018, has agreed to a deal with the Seahawks after going undrafted.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29100238/fiu-rb-anthony-jones-shot-18-agrees-deal-seahawks

Belichick: Pats' QB-less draft 'wasn't by design'

The Patriots finished the 2020 NFL draft without selecting a quarterback, creating a clearer path for Jarrett Stidham to succeed Tom Brady as the team's starter.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2020/story/_/id/29099931/patriots-bill-belichick-says-not-drafting-qb-design

Lynch: 49ers, Williams won't rush into extension

On the day the San Francisco 49ers acquired left tackle Trent Williams from Washington, 49ers general manager John Lynch said neither Williams nor the team is focused on a contract extension. Williams will be in the final year of his deal this season.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29099733/49ers-trent-williams-no-rush-extension-gm-john-lynch-says

Redskins add TE Moss, son of ex-NFL star Randy

Former LSU tight end Thaddeus Moss, the son of NFL Hall of Famer Randy Moss, will sign with the Redskins as an undrafted free agent, the team confirmed Saturday night.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2020/story/_/id/29099683/redskins-agree-lsu-te-thaddeus-moss-son-ex-nfl-star-randy

2020 NFL draft biggest takeaways: Surprises, lingering questions and lots of dogs

The Packers drafted a QB, while the Patriots did not. What were the other most notable events from the NFL's virtual draft?

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2020/story/_/id/29097982/2020-nfl-draft-biggest-takeaways-surprises-lingering-questions-lots-dogs

LSU ties 7-round record with 14 players drafted

LSU tied Ohio State's mark from 2004 with 14 players selected in a seven-round draft. The NFL switched to a seven-round format in 1994.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/29099447/lsu-sees-14-players-selected-nfl-draft-tying-7-round-record

Source: Eagles trading for 49ers WR Goodwin

The Philadelphia Eagles are trading for San Francisco 49ers WR Marquise Goodwin, a source tells ESPN's Adam Schefter. The Eagles and 49ers flipped sixth-round picks, with Philadelphia also getting Goodwin, according to a source.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29098437/source-eagles-trading-49ers-wr-marquise-goodwin

49ers trade RB Breida to Dolphins, use pick on OT

The 49ers traded running back Matt Breida to the Dolphins on Saturday for a fifth-round pick, which they used to select West Virginia offensive tackle Colton McKivitz at No. 153 overall.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29098321/rb-matt-breida-traded-dolphins-49ers-use-pick-colton-mckivitz

Rare trade with Eagles nets Cowboys new center

The deal marks the first time the Cowboys and Eagles have made a draft-day trade since 2010, when the Cowboys moved up to take linebacker Sean Lee in the second round.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29098397/dallas-cowboys-make-rare-trade-eagles-draft-center-tyler-biadasz

Mayor playfully apologizes to Brady, welcomes QB

Tampa mayor Jane Castor issued a lighthearted apology to new Bucs quarterback Tom Brady, took a jab at his trademark quest for "Tampa Brady" and welcomed Rob Gronkowski to the city as well.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29098252/tampa-mayor-issues-lighthearted-apology-welcomes-tom-brady-rob-gronkowski-bucs

Colts draft possible QB of future Eason at No. 122

The Colts, whose current quarterbacks are all set to become free agents at the end of the 2020 season, drafted Washington's Jacob Eason in the fourth round Saturday.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29098066/colts-select-washington-qb-jacob-eason-4th-round-nfl-draft

Redskins trade OT Williams to 49ers for picks

The Redskins traded Pro Bowl offensive tackle Trent Williams to San Francisco in exchange for a fifth-round pick this year and a third-round pick in 2021.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29097862/sources-redskins-trade-ot-trent-williams-49ers

Sources: 49ers veteran Staley expected to retire

Joe Staley, who has played all 13 NFL seasons with the 49ers and has started all 181 games in which he has appeared, is expected to retire, sources told ESPN.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29098007/sources-49ers-veteran-joe-staley-expected-retire

Doggone: Judge's move leaves pup out of draft

Draft setup issues at his Massachusetts home led Giants coach Joe Judge to relocate to his New Jersey apartment on Wednesday -- leaving him without the help of his trusted sidekick, Abby the golden retriever.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29097902/giants-joe-judge-forced-relocate-leaving-abby-golden-retriever-nfl-draft

Who Wake Forest could hire to replace Danny Manning

Wake Forest let go of Danny Manning after one NCAA tournament appearance in six seasons. Who could the Demon Deacons hire next?

source https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/29097616/who-wake-forest-hire-replace-danny-manning

Childress to auction Earnhardt car for virus relief

Richard Childress will auction off one of Dale Earnhardt's trademark No. 3 race cars from his personal collection in an effort to raise money for coronavirus relief efforts.

source https://www.espn.com/racing/nascar/story/_/id/29097700/richard-childress-auction-dale-earnhardt-race-car-virus-relief

Source: Wake Forest parts ways with Manning

Danny Manning, who went 78-111 in six seasons at Wake Forest, will not be returning to the Demon Deacons next season, sources confirmed to ESPN.

source https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/29097586/source-wake-forest-parts-ways-basketball-coach-danny-manning

OT Williams denies shutting down Vikings trade

Trent Williams told ESPN that he did not strike down a potential trade to the Vikings, though sources confirmed that the potential trade partners were informed at some point Friday that the Redskins offensive tackle did not want to play in Minnesota.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29097412/redskins-ot-trent-williams-denies-nixing-potential-trade-vikings

Inside Mark Hamilton's journey from MLB to MD fighting coronavirus

When Hamilton's baseball career ended, he decided to go to medical school. This month, the former major leaguer graduated and will be working at the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29089594/inside-mark-hamilton-journey-mlb-md-fighting-coronavirus

Messi has everything, so how does he get better?

Where almost all players are controlled by the game, Messi controls it, so how does one of the world's best keep improving?

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/barcelona/story/4088964/barcelona-and-argentina-star-lionel-messi-has-everythingso-how-does-he-get-better

Coronavirus lockdown: Arsenal's Lacazette shows he misses Aubameyang

With almost all of soccer idle, here is how star players are they filling their time.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/blog-the-toe-poke/story/4088992/coronavirus-lockdown-arsenals-lacazette-shows-he-misses-aubameyang-evertons-gomes-signs-autographs

From the archives: Phil Jackson on Rodman, Pippen's trade demand and dreams of Shaq

As he was readying the Bulls for their sixth title run in eight seasons, Jackson dished on a variety of topics.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29078439/phil-jackson-michael-jordan-dennis-rodman-new-love-superstar-was-secretly-scouting

Ravens surprised Dobbins fell, 'had to take him'

After setting the NFL's single-season rushing record in 2019, the Ravens used a second-round pick on Ohio State running back J.K. Dobbins.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29096045/ravens-take-buckeyes-jk-dobbins-heels-record-rushing-season

Friday, April 24, 2020

Bears now have 10 tight ends after drafting Kmet

After going through the 2019 season with the least productive tight end group in the NFL, the Bears continued revamping their roster by taking Notre Dame's Cole Kmet in the 2nd round of the NFL draft.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29096124/bears-draft-notre-dame-cole-kmet-giving-10-tight-ends

Packers' Love says Rodgers congratulated him

Jordan Love, the Green Bay Packers' first-round pick in the NFL draft, told ESPN's Maria Taylor Friday night that he and Aaron Rodgers had a good first interaction and that Rodgers congratulated him on joining the team.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29096298/packers-jordan-love-says-aaron-rodgers-congratulated-pick

Winfield Jr., whose dad INT'd Brady, goes to Bucs

Antoine Winfield Jr., who went to the Bucs with the No. 45 overall pick, said it was "crazy" to land on the same team as Tom Brady, who faced his dad, Antoine Winfield Sr., seven times in the NFL.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2020/story/_/id/29096050/tampa-bay-bucs-take-db-antoine-winfield-jr-dad-played-tom-brady

Eagles surprise by picking QB Hurts in 2nd round

In a surprise move, the Philadelphia Eagles selected Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Jalen Hurts in the second round of the NFL draft on Friday.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29095862/eagles-surprisingly-take-sooners-qb-jalen-hurts-2nd-round-draft

Pats take D-II safety with first post-Brady pick

With their first pick in the post-Tom Brady era, the Patriots used the No. 37 overall pick in the NFL draft on Kyle Dugger, a safety out of Division II Lenoir-Rhyne.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2020/story/_/id/29095828/new-england-patriots-take-kyle-dugger-first-post-tom-brady-pick-nfl-draft

Colts trade up, add Wisconsin's Taylor to RB mix

The Colts traded up three spots during Friday's second round to select Wisconsin running back Jonathan Taylor at No. 41, giving new quarterback Philip Rivers another threat out of the backfield.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29095812/colts-trade-draft-wisconsin-rb-jonathan-taylor

A record-breaking year: Five UFC marks likely to fall in 2020

If UFC 249 happens as scheduled on May 9, Donald "Cowboy" Cerrone will set a record, with others expected to soon be surpassed.

source https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/29088086/a-record-breaking-year-five-ufc-marks-likely-fall-2020

Messi vs. Ronaldo: When the world's greatest players went head to head

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have tangled a total of 36 times since their first meeting back in April 2008. Here are six of the best clashes.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/blog-the-toe-poke/story/4088676/lionel-messi-and-cristiano-ronaldos-most-memorable-clashes-from-the-champions-league-to-el-clasico

Lamar labels Ravens LB Queen 'Ray Lewis Jr.'

As linebacker Patrick Queen fell to Baltimore with the No. 28 overall pick, Ravens QB Lamar Jackson shouted "Ray Lewis Jr.!" on Instagram Live.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29092590/lamar-jackson-labels-new-ravens-lb-patrick-queen-ray-lewis-jr

Ferraris, nail salons, and armed guards: Two weeks with Dennis Rodman in the mid-1990s

Spending time with Dennis Rodman in the mid-1990s meant having a front-row seat to the basketball/pop culture phenomenon of the Bulls, an experience that can only be described as surreal.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29083157/the-last-dance-dennis-rodman-embodied-pop-culture-phenomenon-90s-bulls

'Wherever they want to play, I'll play': Phillies ace Aaron Nola on MLB shutdown life, baseball's return and more

We asked the Phillies righty what he's doing without baseball, how he's training without a start date and his ideas for the upcoming season.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29083079/wherever-want-play-play-phillies-ace-aaron-nola-mlb-shutdown-life-baseball-return-more

From Jerry Jones' yacht to whatever's happening at Mike Vrabel's place

Not all NFL home draft rooms are created equally. From Jerry Jones and Kliff Kingsbury's lush quarters to Mike Vrabel's hilarious backdrop, here are some of our favorites from the first round.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29091119/best-2020-nfl-draft-home-setups

Internet outage gives Broncos' Fangio brief scare

Broncos coach Vic Fangio said he lost internet and cable service at his house just minutes before the first round of the NFL draft began Thursday, but the problem was rectified quickly and the rest of the night went smoothly.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29091582/internet-outage-gives-broncos-vic-fangio-brief-scare-draft

Thursday, April 23, 2020

SEC smashes mark with 15 1st-rounders in draft

The SEC had a record 15 players taken in the first round of the NFL draft Thursday night, including five from national champion LSU.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2020/story/_/id/29091387/sec-record-15-first-round-picks-nfl-draft

Sure Rodgers 'loves this pick': Reactions to Pack drafting a QB

First-round receiver? The Packers didn't find Aaron Rodgers a new target, just his potential replacement.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29090997/nfl-world-reacts-packers-drafting-qb-jordan-love

Packers trade up to select QB Love from Utah St.

The Green Bay Packers traded up late in the first round of the NFL draft on Thursday night, using the 26th pick to select Utah State quarterback Jordan Love, the potential heir to Aaron Rodgers.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2020/story/_/id/29090938/green-bay-packers-trade-select-qb-jordan-love-26th-pick-nfl-draft

Giants GM on mask flak: Wore it for good reason

Giants general manager Dave Gettleman said he wasn't alone at home when he wore a mask while sitting alone in a room during Thursday night's virtual NFL draft.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2020/story/_/id/29090853/giants-dave-gettleman-explains-wearing-mask-virtual-nfl-draft

Kliff Kingsbury's luxe setup draws reactions from NFL stars

One NFL draft war room to rule them all. Kliff Kingsbury's setup put everyone else's to shame, and the stars of the league noticed.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29090467/stars-react-kliff-kingsbury-luxe-nfl-draft-setup

Oklahoma WR Lamb falls to Cowboys at No. 17

Former Oklahoma star CeeDee Lamb dropped to the 17th pick in Thursday night's draft, and Dallas was there to snag him, giving QB Dak Prescott another talented wideout to join Amari Cooper and Michael Gallup.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2020/story/_/id/29090644/ceedee-lamb-falls-dallas-cowboys-select-17th-pick-nfl-draft

Bucs move up to get Wirfs to protect Brady

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made the first trade of the draft, moving up to get Iowa OL Tristan Wirfs.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29090482/tampa-bay-buccaneers-move-draft-get-ol-tristan-wirfs-protect-tom-brady

Raiders pick speedy receiver Ruggs 12th overall

The Las Vegas Raiders have drafted speedy Alabama receiver Henry Ruggs with the 12th pick in the NFL draft.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29090553/wr-needy-raiders-draft-bama-henry-ruggs-12th-overall

Chargers replace Rivers with QB Herbert at No. 6

Herbert is valued for his prototypical size (6-foot-6¼, 236 pounds), plus his speed (4.68 in the 40-yard dash) and arm strength.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2020/story/_/id/29090165/los-angeles-chargers-draft-qb-justin-herbert-no-6-replace-philip-rivers

Dolphins draft Bama QB Tagovailoa with 5th pick

The Miami Dolphins selected Alabama's Tua Tagovailoa with the No. 5 pick in Thursday night's NFL draft with hopes he will be the answer to their long-standing franchise quarterback question.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2020/story/_/id/29090078/miami-dolphins-select-alabama-qb-tua-tagovailoa-fifth-pick-nfl-draft

Follow live: The 2020 NFL draft is here

Tua Tagovailoa goes No. 5 to the Dolphins. The former Alabama star is the second QB off the board behind Joe Burrow, who went No. 1 to the Bengals.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft/live

Bayou Bengal: Cincy takes Burrow No. 1 in draft

Months of speculation ended on Thursday night when the Cincinnati Bengals selected former LSU quarterback Joe Burrow with the first overall pick in the NFL draft.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29089822/cincinnati-bengals-take-joe-burrow-no-1-pick-nfl-draft

Redskins seize sack master Young with No. 2 pick

Washington ended months of speculation by doing what many predicted it would long ago, selecting Ohio State defensive end Chase Young with the No. 2 pick of the NFL draft.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29089884/redskins-draft-buckeyes-de-chase-young-no-2-pick

NFL's first virtual draft kicks off without hitch

The coronavirus pandemic kept the NFL world at home, but technology prevailed as commissioner Roger Goodell announced quarterback Joe Burrow as the No. 1 pick of the NFL draft to the Cincinnati Bengals.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2020/story/_/id/29090035/nfl-first-virtual-draft-kicks-hitch

NFL draft: Live updated fantasy football reaction, projections

What should you expect from rookies like Joe Burrow, Jerry Jeudy and CeeDee Lamb? Mike Clay provides a fantasy breakdown of each skill-position pick from the first three rounds of the NFL draft.

source https://www.espn.com/fantasy/football/story/_/id/29078535/nfl-draft-live-updated-fantasy-football-reaction-projections

Travis Scott's Fortnite concert was one of Epic's best events

Dressed as a banana, Arda Ocal braved the throngs of digital fans to take in Fortnite's latest attraction.

source https://www.espn.com/esports/story/_/id/29089591/travis-scott-fortnite-concert-was-one-epic-best-events

How Kellar and Team Canyon pulled off VALORANT's biggest upset so far

Team Canyon weren't expected to win the ESPN Esports VALORANT Invitational, but they did so in thrilling fashion. Here's how they pulled off the upset.

source https://www.espn.com/esports/story/_/id/29086980/how-kellar-team-canyon-pulled-valorant-biggest-upset-far

What to expect from Tiger/Peyton vs. Mickelson/Brady

Four of the biggest names in sports are going to play a charity golf match. Intrigued? Isn't everyone? So what else do we know -- about format, about social distancing rules, about venue? We go through what we know and what still needs resolution.

source https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/29086196/what-expect-tiger-peyton-vs-mickelson-brady-golf-match

Past NFL hopefuls who spent draft day at home

Players won't be able to attend NFL draft festivities this year, but neither Brett Favre nor Deion Sanders attended, either, and it turned out OK for them.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29079304/past-nfl-hopefuls-spent-draft-day-home

Who should Terence Crawford fight next? Can he be a star?

As Terence Crawford waits for his next fight, we look at what may be in store in 2020 for the welterweight world titleholder.

source https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/29044402/who-terence-crawford-fight-next-a-star

Sources: Bengals rebuffed Fins' interest in No. 1

Over the past couple of weeks, the Dolphins have called the Bengals to see if Cincinnati would be willing to deal the No. 1 pick and each time were told -- in no uncertain terms -- no, sources told ESPN.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29086299/bengals-shot-dolphins-inquiries-no-1-pick-sources-say

How the greatness of Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman lives on

The duo not only helped the Bulls win a bunch of rings, they also foreshadowed some of the NBA's major trends.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29085009/how-greatness-scottie-pippen-dennis-rodman-lives-on

Inside the music and mind of Blazers guard Damian Lillard

Lillard represents far more than just himself.

source https://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/28072772/inside-music-mind-blazers-guard-damian-lillard

UFC bantamweights: Who gets the next title shot? One bold prediction

Will a top challenger get the Henry Cejudo-Dominick Cruz winner? Our panel weighs in.

source https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/29066155/ufc-bantamweights-gets-next-title-shot-one-bold-prediction

How to make the 2020 NHL draft work

Holding the draft in June, before there's any finality to the 2019-20 season, wouldn't be ideal or perfect or even next to perfect. It would be calamitous.

source https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/29084960/how-make-2020-nhl-draft-work

Why the four-man outfield could be MLB's next big innovation

In spring training, the Rays -- who brought us the opener and the shift -- dabbled with using an extra outfielder. Could this become a trend?

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29084125/why-four-man-outfield-mlb-next-big-innovation

Arsenal's David Luiz hosts birthday party attended entirely by clones

With almost all football off because of the coronavirus, star players have found themselves at a loose end. How are they filling their time?

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/blog-the-toe-poke/story/4088303/coronavirus-lockdown-arsenals-david-luiz-hosts-birthday-party-attended-entirely-by-clones

From selling ice cream, to the NFL? Aussie Dane Roy on draft radars

Australian punter Dane Roy's NFL dream closer than ever despite being thousands of miles away self-isolating in a tiny one-bedroom apartment in Melbourne.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2020/story/_/id/29085066/from-selling-ice-cream-nfl-aussie-punter-dane-roy-draft-radars

Arsenal in the Champions League? Forget it

ESPN's Insider Notebook has bad news for excited Arsenal fans. PLUS: Chelsea have a Kepa conundrum, and PSG's president faces a dilemma ...

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/uefa-champions-league/story/4088122/arsenal-can-forget-champions-leaguepsg-presidents-tv-negotiationschelseas-kepa-conundrum

Gretzky, Ovechkin raise $40K in NHL 20 deadlock

NHL greats Wayne Gretzky and Alex Ovechkin took to the virtual ice Wednesday night, each winning a game in their EA Sports NHL 20 showdown that raised funds for relief efforts related to the coronavirus pandemic.

source https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/29085512/wayne-gretzky-alex-ovechkin-battle-draw-nhl-20-fundraiser

Wednesday, April 22, 2020

VALORANT Day 3 rounds in one sentence

The final day of the tournament featured a lot of close games.

source https://www.espn.com/esports/story/_/id/29084360/espn-valorant-invitational-day-3-rounds-one-sentence

ESPN Esports VALORANT Invitational: Final thoughts

The ESPN Esports VALORANT Invitational ended with Team Canyon upsetting Team Mirage in the finals. Our experts share their thoughts on the last day of the tournament.

source https://www.espn.com/esports/story/_/id/29084643/espn-esports-valorant-invitational-final-thoughts

Muffet McGraw evolved, then exited on her own terms

Muffet McGraw won two national titles in very different eras of college basketball, but it was her voice that garnered lasting respect within the game.

source https://www.espn.com/womens-college-basketball/story/_/id/29084189/muffet-mcgraw-won-evolved-exited-notre-dame-own-terms

Roger Federer's comments add fuel to ATP-WTA merger debate

Tennis stars and commentators support Roger Federer's plea for one strong governing body as the sport remains on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.

source https://www.espn.com/tennis/story/_/id/29084371/just-wondering-roger-federer-comments-add-fuel-atp-wta-merger-debate

A sudden shutdown, then uncertainty for ATP, WTA tours

Wimbledon is canceled, the French Open has moved, and the US Open is up in the air.

source https://www.espn.com/tennis/story/_/id/29057707/how-coronavirus-pandemic-forced-sudden-shutdown-uncertainty-atp-wta-tours

Bettman: 4-city NHL restart, June draft discussed

Gary Bettman confirmed that a potential four-arena restart for the season has been discussed.

source https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/29084812/gary-bettman-says-league-discussed-4-arena-plan-draft-season-ends

Knicks' Dolan donating plasma after virus recovery

Knicks owner James Dolan has recovered from the coronavirus and is volunteering to donate blood plasma for various medical trials, a team spokesperson confirmed to ESPN.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29084640/knicks-owner-james-dolan-donate-plasma-coronavirus-recovery

Rafael: Neymar 'not a leader,' needs to listen more

Former Manchester United defender says Neymar needs to up his leadership skills.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/brazil-bra/story/4088253/ex-man-united-star-rafael-neymar-not-a-leader-needs-to-listen-more

CP3: Players need at least 3-4 weeks' prep time

Chris Paul said that he believes players will need a runway of "at least" three or four weeks to prepare to play.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29084357/oklahoma-city-thunder-chris-paul-says-lengthy-prep-needed-games

Canelo to PBC? Spence to Top Rank? What if there were trades in boxing?

Steve Kim makes five fantasy trades between boxing's major promotional companies that could benefit the sport as a whole and those involved.

source https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/29072679/canelo-pbc-spence-top-rank-there-were-trades-boxing

Goodell: NFL draft now gives sports world hope

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell says that going ahead with the league's draft during the coronavirus pandemic gives the sports world hope.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29082381/roger-goodell-nfl-draft-now-gives-sports-world-hope

Bengals' coach: Burrow is as good as advertised

Bengals coach Zac Taylor says the team is impressed with LSU quarterback Joe Burrow, who they are expected to take with the first pick in the NFL draft.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29082233/bengals-coach-joe-burrow-good-advertised

Federer ponders merger of men's, women's tours

Roger Federer raised the prospect of merging the governing bodies that oversee the men's and women's professional tennis tours on Wednesday.

source https://www.espn.com/tennis/story/_/id/29082300/roger-federer-ponders-merger-mens-women-tours

Tom Brady lures Rob Gronkowski, showing Bucs all-in to win hometown Super Bowl

The Gronkowski trade shows Brady's influence on his new team, which has made bold moves this offseason to contend now and make Super Bowl history.

source https://www.espn.com/blog/tampa-bay-buccaneers/post/_/id/23634/tom-brady-lures-rob-gronkowski-showing-bucs-all-in-to-win-hometown-super-bowl

Former Michigan player says team doctor's abuse had lasting impact

Chuck Christian avoided doctors - until he had no choice. By then his condition was incurable, but a contributing factor became clear.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/29077702/former-michigan-player-says-team-doctor-abuse-had-lasting-impact

Clemson not letting cancellation spoil memories of inaugural season

Clemson softball players were upset due to the pandemic, but they will remember it for starting traditions.

source https://www.espn.com/college-sports/story/_/id/28995372/clemson-softball-not-letting-coronavirus-cancellation-spoil-memories-inaugural-season

WR Harvin 'ready to return' after 3 seasons off

Wide receiver Percy Harvin, who has not played since the 2016 season and battled numerous injuries throughout his career, told ESPN's Josina Anderson that he is "ready to return to the NFL."

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29082055/percy-harvin-says-itch-came-back-play-football-again

The college football stars we can't believe didn't make it in the NFL

These players were transcendent talents who seemed destined for NFL superstardom. But for whatever reason, it didn't pan out.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/29073061/the-college-football-stars-believe-make-nfl

NBA decisions with big impacts on top college conferences

Iowa's Luka Garza, Baylor's Jared Butler and others haven't yet decided if they'll enter the NBA draft, but their decisions will have a big effect on their college teams.

source https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/29079260/nba-decisions-biggest-impact-college-basketball-top-conferences

First on the tee: How the Charles Schwab Challenge is getting its name out there

If the PGA Tour comes back as planned in early June, the Charles Schwab Challenge will be one of the first events as American sports makes a return. That means name recognition, and some pressure given so much uncertainty.

source https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/29071031/how-charles-schwab-challenge-getting-name-there

Inside the 2008 Celtics' group-text thread that is still active today

How do Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and other members of the '08 Celtics stay connected? The same way all family members do, by group text.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29079428/inside-2008-celtics-group-text-thread-active-today

Sources: Chelsea eye Coutinho as Sancho stalls

Chelsea are considering a deal to sign Philippe Coutinho as an alternative to Jadon Sancho, sources have told ESPN.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/soccer-transfers/story/4088059/chelsea-eye-coutinho-with-united-winning-sancho-race-sources

Rollerblade renaissance: How hockey players are staying in shape during coronavirus pandemic

With icetime unavailable for most players, they've dug their old inline skates out of the closet and are taking to the streets.

source https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/29078390/rollerblade-renaissance-how-hockey-players-staying-shape-coronavirus-pandemic

Coyotes GM John Chayka on Taylor Hall, 'frustrating' paused season and helping others

We check in with Chayka on a wide range of topics as the NHL's coronavirus pause continues.

source https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/29080158/arizona-coyotes-gm-john-chayka-taylor-hall-frustrating-paused-season-helping-others

Tuesday, April 21, 2020

Gronkowski reuniting with Brady brings out memes and more

From eye emojis to sunshine and no state taxes tweets, there's plenty of reaction to the former Patriots teammates joining the Buccaneers.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29078533/rob-gronkowski-joining-tom-brady-tampa-bay-brings-memes-more

Seahawks GM: 'Door not closed' on Clowney deal

Seahawks GM John Schneider said "the door is not closed" on defensive end Jadeveon Clowney returning to Seattle, but the team couldn't wait on him at the risk of losing out on other deals.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29080137/seahawks-gm-says-door-not-closed-jadeveon-clowney-returning

S. Dakota dirt track to race in front of 700 fans

Without any enforceable restrictions against large gatherings due to the coronavirus pandemic, Park Jefferson International Speedway -- a dirt track in North Sioux City, South Dakota -- is planning to race Saturday with ticket sales capped at 700.

source https://www.espn.com/auto/story/_/id/29080138/south-dakota-dirt-track-race-700-fans-grandstands

ESPN Esports VALORANT Invitational: What we learned on Day 2

What was the biggest surprise on Tuesday and which of the semifinal teams might win the ESPN Esports VALORANT Invitational on Wednesday? Our experts answer this and more.

source https://www.espn.com/esports/story/_/id/29079895/espn-esports-valorant-invitational-learned-day-2

Each round of Day 2 at our VALORANT Invitational in one sentence

Day 2 of the ESPN Esports VALORANT Invitational was packed with action.

source https://www.espn.com/esports/story/_/id/29079311/each-round-day-2-espn-esports-valorant-invitational-one-sentence

Barnwell's trade grades: Why Gronk put the Pats in a bind, and the Bucs won

Rob Gronkowski is joining Tom Brady in Tampa Bay, a deal New England had to take. What happens now?

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29078662/rob-gronkowski-trade-grades-did-bucs-just-pull-some-patriots-magic

Baseball's back as umps wear masks in S. Korea

Baseball returned to South Korea on Tuesday with five exhibition games, though it was hardly business as usual amid the coronavirus pandemic. The stands were empty and umpires wore masks and gloves.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29074958/baseball-quietly-returns-south-korea-games-begin-fans

Spanish players against training camp return

Players have expressed concern about returning to work while the coronavirus is still a threat.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/spanish-primera-division/story/4087960/spanish-players-association-have-concerns-over-la-liga-plans-to-resume-training

Thousands of stadium workers not covered by pledges of financial support from athletes, teams

Athletes, owners and managers from across leagues have pledged financial support to team and stadium staffers sidelined by the coronavirus pandemic. But that support doesn't extend to thousands of workers who are now joining the ranks of the unemployed.

source https://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/29073065/thousands-stadium-workers-sidelined-coronavirus-pandemic

Fighting without fans hardly ideal

Several champions and former champs say they're willing to adjust.

source https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/29068285/fighting-fans-hardly-ideal-some-boxing-best-say-adapt

What PFL's postponed season means for its future

How would extended time off affect Kayla Harrison's development?

source https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/29073196/how-does-pfl-move-forward-2020-season-postponed-due-coronavirus

Pick the most valuable NFL QB by college stats

College numbers don't always translate to NFL success. Can you decipher which quarterbacks became valuable pros based solely on their draft resumes?

source http://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/29017970/pick-most-valuable-nfl-qb-college-stats

Bracketology: Michigan State, WVU make bracket moves

Michigan State (now a No. 2 seed) and West Virginia (No. 3) made moves forward in Joe Lunardi's latest bracket projection.

source https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/bracketology

NHL Viewers Club: Episode 7 of 'Quest for the Stanley Cup'

Let's rewatch the final episode of the 2019 series, covering the Blues' Stanley Cup victory over the Bruins.

source https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/29074164/nhl-viewers-club-episode-7-quest-stanley-cup

Tokyo, IOC at odds over massive cost for delay

An open conflict broke out Tuesday between Tokyo organizers and the IOC over who will pay for the unprecedented yearlong postponement of the Olympic Games.

source https://www.espn.com/olympics/story/_/id/29076093/tokyo-ioc-odds-massive-cost-olympics-postponement

Brady Anderson hit homers and raced people shirtless in the parking lot

He wasn't quite the one-year wonder everyone thinks he is. But what made him truly memorable were some of the wild things he said and did.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29029314/tim-kurkjian-baseball-fix-brady-anderson-hit-homers-raced-people-shirtless-parking-lot

Our favorite NFL draft comps: Jalen Hurts as Dak Prescott?

Ten of our analysts weighed in with comps for this year's class -- plus four top comparisons from around the league.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2020/story/_/id/29072283/2020-nfl-draft-comps-our-favorite-prospect-nfl-player-matches

A kicker?! At 17?! Inside one of the weirdest NFL draft picks ever

In 2000, Al Davis' Raiders shocked the world by selecting kicker Sebastian Janikowski in the first round. But 20 years later, is it possible that it was ... exactly the right move?

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2020/story/_/id/29071769/that-raiders-took-kicker-first-round-weirdest-nfl-draft-pick-ever

Ben Simmons hears the talk, but his process is not a public experiment

The Sixers point guard has made only two 3-pointers in his NBA career, but insists he will shoot on his own terms.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29074004/ben-simmons-hears-talk-process-not-public-experiment

The Spider-Man catch. The slide. Father-son history: 15 moments that made Ken Griffey Jr. an MLB icon

No player had more iconic highlights than The Kid, the exuberant superstar who put Mariners baseball on the map. We look at his most memorable ones.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29066422/the-spider-man-catch-slide-father-son-history-15-moments-made-ken-griffey-jr-mlb-icon

Viewers guide: Mariners, Junior race past Yankees in walk-off thriller

Watch as the M's rallied to victory, completing a series comeback that may have saved baseball in Seattle.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29068094/viewers-guide-seattle-mariners-race-new-york-yankees-walk-thriller

An oral history of 'Love & Basketball,' 20 years later

"Love & Basketball" lead Monica Wright challenged her partner, sport and status quo without being painted as a shrew, undesirable or any other limiting descriptor. To mark its 20th anniversary, the cast, crew and WNBA players speak on the film's legacy.

source https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/29069339/an-oral-history-love-basketball-20-years-later

Draymond: Warriors had 'elephant in room' in KD

Draymond Green, on ESPN documentary "The Last Dance" about the Michael Jordan-era Bulls, says he sees similarities in his own title-winning Warriors with one glaring exception -- Kevin Durant and his expiring contract.

source https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29075096/warriors-had-elephant-room-kevin-durant

Monday, April 20, 2020

Sources: 18 ballclubs to pay ops staff through May

More than half of MLB teams have pledged to pay baseball operations staffs through at least the end of May, sources told ESPN, as the murkiness of baseball's economic future drives decisions around the sport.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29075005/sources-majority-mlb-teams-pay-baseball-ops-staff-may

Brady spotted at closed Tampa park, mayor says

A city employee spotted new Bucs quarterback Tom Brady working out at a closed park in downtown Tampa, mayor Jane Castor said Monday.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29074839/bucs-tom-brady-spotted-working-closed-tampa-park-mayor-says

Each round of the ESPN Esports VALORANT Invitational in one sentence

Here's a short-but-sweet roundup of all of today's action at the ESPN Esports VALORANT Invitational.

source https://www.espn.com/esports/story/_/id/29074423/each-round-espn-esports-valorant-invitational-one-sentence

Measuring the loss of Nunes-Spencer and picking the can't-miss fights on May 9

How much does Amanda Nunes' withdrawal hurt the UFC's targeted May 9 event? Our MMA insiders weigh in.

source https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/29074161/measuring-loss-nunes-spencer-picking-miss-fights-9

Texas, Florida eager for NASCAR to start again

Texas and Florida appear to be ready to allow NASCAR races to resume without fans.

source https://www.espn.com/racing/story/_/id/29074071/texas-florida-govs-eager-help-nascar-start-road-return-coronavirus

ESPN Esports VALORANT Invitational: What we learned on Day 1

Day 1 of the ESPN VALORANT Invitational showed Counter-Strike players have the upper-hand in the game.

source https://www.espn.com/esports/story/_/id/29074239/espn-valorant-invitational-learned-day-1

Gruden's Zoom struggles, jokes amuse Vols class

Raiders coach and noted Tennessee fan Jon Gruden made a surprise virtual appearance last Friday in an Introduction to Statistics class, during which he struggled with Zoom and encouraged students to stay strong during the coronavirus pandemic.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29073757/raiders-jon-gruden-surprises-online-statistics-class-tennessee

Out of May bout, Nunes cites lack of prep time

Amanda Nunes was supposed to defend her featherweight title against Felicia Spencer on May 9 but said she wants to wait for the pandemic to pass before fighting.

source https://www.espn.com/mma/ufc/story/_/id/29073770/amanda-nunes-title-bout-not-right-fight

Source: Marlins CEO Jeter forgoing $5M salary

Marlins CEO Derek Jeter told employees Monday that he will be indefinitely forgoing his $5 million salary, a source told ESPN.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29072372/source-marlins-ceo-derek-jeter-forgoing-5m-salary

Gauff's dad: Coco never got depression diagnosis

Coco Gauff's father has clarified his daughter's comments on being "depressed," saying the 16-year-old has never been diagnosed with depression but has struggled with pressure amid her stardom.

source https://www.espn.com/tennis/story/_/id/29072046/coco-gauff-never-diagnosed-depression-dad-says

'It will have to be very different': Carlos Correa on how MLB comes back

The Astros shortstop talks life during lockdown, helping in Houston and Puerto Rico and what players will accept to return to action.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29059846/it-be-very-different-carlos-correa-how-mlb-comes-back

Bats go silent: Louisville Slugger shutters factory

Louisville Slugger, which has been making bats since the 1800s, has closed down its factory and furloughed most of its workforce amid the coronavirus pandemic.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29071826/louisville-slugger-forced-close-factory-museum-furlough-staff

Sources: English football's £1bn virus lifeline

A group renowned financiers are offering a lifeline in excess of £1billion to English football as it tackles the monetary crisis during coronavirus.

source https://www.espn.com/soccer/english-premier-league/story/4086973/coronavirus-premier-leagueefl-offered-1-billion-lifeline-to-survive-in-crisis

Source: Bucs not expected to trade for Fournette

The Buccaneers are not expected to make a trade for Jacksonville Jaguars running back Leonard Fournette, a source told ESPN's Josina Anderson.

source https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29070970/source-buccaneers-not-expected-trade-leonard-fournette

Ex-commish Finchem elected to World Golf HOF

Former PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem has been elected to the World Golf Hall of Fame as part of a 2021 class that will also feature Tiger Woods.

source https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/29070837/tim-finchem-former-pga-tour-commissioner-elected-world-golf-hall-fame

The NHL's coronavirus pause: Scenarios for fanless games, impact on 2020-21 and more

Our weekly rundown of intel, including the newest possible return timeline, comments from NHLPA head Donald Fehr and more.

source https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/29069915/the-nhl-coronavirus-pause-scenarios-fanless-games-impact-2020-21-more

Latest on NCAA cancellations, eligibility, recruiting and more

From the start of the college football season to cutting sports to an extra year of eligibility, here is the latest information on how the coronavirus is affecting colleges.

source https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/29036650/how-coronavirus-affecting-college-sports-latest-ncaa-cancellations-eligibility-recruiting-more

Sportsbooks see big betting interest in NFL draft

With games on hold, the NFL draft is taking center stage at sportsbooks around the nation, and betting interest is booming ahead of Thursday's first round.

source https://www.espn.com/chalk/story/_/id/29070773/sportsbooks-see-big-betting-interest-nfl-draft

The magic of box scores and how an obsession was born

In baseball, the numbers tell a story. Always have. You just need to look at a box score. Every box score. Every day. You won't believe what you'll find.

source https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/29029009/tim-kurkjian-baseball-fix-magic-box-scores-how-obsession-was-born

Virginia up, Kentucky down in college basketball's Way-Too-Early Top 25 for 2020-21

Virginia, Kansas and Wisconsin are among the teams that climbed in the Way-Too-Early Top 25 in men's college basketball for 2020-21.

source https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/29064753/virginia-kentucky-college-basketball-way-too-early-top-25-2020-21