CLEVELAND — Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell pushed back against criticism of teammate James Harden’s performance in the 2026 Eastern Conference finals, drawing comparisons to NBA legends Michael Jordan and LeBron James to highlight the difference between early struggles and ultimate success. The Cavaliers were swept by the Boston Celtics in the series, with Harden facing sharp scrutiny for his diminished output.

Harden, acquired by Cleveland before the trade deadline to provide playoff experience alongside Mitchell, averaged just 16.0 points per game in the Eastern Conference finals while shooting 38.9% from the field and 17.9% from three-point range. His assist numbers also dipped to 3.0 per game, and defensive lapses were noted by observers. The performance marked a disappointing return to the conference finals stage for the veteran guard.

Mitchell, however, refused to place blame on his backcourt partner. Speaking after the series, he emphasized Harden’s body of work over nine seasons and criticized what he called a cultural focus on failures rather than achievements. “I’ve watched Harden for nine years,” Mitchell said. “I’ve watched it and to see it firsthand, the work ethic, the passion, the IQ, the leadership. The man just gets a bad rep.”

He continued by referencing historical context for superstar players. “Yeah, sure, has he had some rough moments? I’m sure we all have. LeBron is one of the greatest players ever. We don’t really speak on the Mavericks Finals when he struggled. We don’t speak on Jordan taking eight years to get to the Finals. We speak on the wins.”

Jordan did not reach the NBA Finals until his seventh season in 1991, after multiple early playoff exits against strong Eastern Conference competition, including the Detroit Pistons. James, in his first Finals appearance with the Miami Heat in 2011, struggled notably as his team fell to the Dallas Mavericks in six games. Mitchell used these examples to argue for perspective on Harden’s career trajectory.

Mitchell also referenced actor Denzel Washington’s three Oscar wins alongside eight losses. “I saw Denzel say this. He’s won three Oscars. And the first thing he said to the interviewer was like, ‘Yeah, but I lost eight times.’ We don’t talk about that, right? We talk about what? Success, success, success. We don’t talk about the failures,” Mitchell added.

The comments come as the Cavaliers reflect on a season that raised expectations with the Harden addition but ended in a sweep. Harden, a former MVP and 10-time All-Star, has faced consistent questions about his postseason performances throughout his career, particularly as the primary option. His only NBA Finals appearance came in 2012 as a sixth man with the Oklahoma City Thunder. As the lead player for the Houston Rockets, he reached the Western Conference finals in 2018 but could not advance further.

NBA analysts offered mixed reactions to Mitchell’s defense. Some praised the loyalty and focus on long-term narratives, while others noted that Harden’s recent output, particularly his efficiency and defensive engagement, fell below expectations for a player brought in to elevate a contending roster. The Cavaliers’ front office had viewed the trade as a move to pair Mitchell with a proven creator capable of performing in high-stakes games.

Harden’s regular-season contributions with Cleveland helped the team secure strong positioning, but the postseason exposed challenges in adapting to a supporting role behind Mitchell while still shouldering significant offensive responsibility. His usage rate remained high, yet scoring efficiency declined against Boston’s physical defense.

The broader conversation reflects ongoing debates in NBA culture about player legacies. Supporters of Harden point to his revolutionary impact on offensive spacing and step-back shooting, innovations that influenced a generation of guards. Critics focus on his teams’ repeated postseason exits before reaching the Finals as the undisputed leader.

Mitchell’s remarks also underscore team chemistry priorities as the Cavaliers look toward the offseason. With both players under contract, Cleveland management must decide whether to build around the duo or pursue additional roster adjustments. Mitchell, a perennial All-Star, has expressed commitment to winning in Cleveland after earlier stints with the Utah Jazz.

League observers note that public defenses like Mitchell’s are relatively rare in the modern NBA, where individual accountability often dominates post-series analysis. By invoking Jordan — widely regarded as the greatest player ever — and James, a four-time champion, Mitchell sought to reframe the narrative around resilience and eventual triumph rather than isolated shortcomings.

Jordan’s path included six consecutive first-round or conference exits before his breakthrough championship run with the Chicago Bulls. James rebounded from the 2011 Finals disappointment to win two titles with Miami and later deliver championships for Cleveland and Los Angeles. These arcs provide historical precedent for patience with star players navigating playoff pressure.

For Harden, now in his mid-30s, the 2026 postseason represents another chapter in a lengthy career. He has previously addressed critiques about his conditioning and playoff performances, emphasizing adaptation to new systems and roles. The Cavaliers’ coaching staff highlighted his leadership in the locker room despite on-court challenges.

The timing of Mitchell’s comments arrives amid heightened media scrutiny of star performances in an era of player movement and superteam formations. Social media amplified both praise for his teammate loyalty and skepticism about excusing subpar statistical output in elimination games.

Cleveland’s season demonstrated promise, with strong regular-season wins and individual accolades, yet the swift conference finals exit has prompted questions about roster construction and playoff readiness. General Manager Mike Gansey and the front office are expected to evaluate free agency and trade options with an eye toward complementing the Mitchell-Harden backcourt.

As the NBA offseason begins, Mitchell’s public stance may help shield Harden from some internal pressure while signaling unity to the fan base. The guard’s comparison to cultural icons like Washington further illustrated his point about society’s selective memory regarding success versus failure.

Ultimately, the 2026 Eastern Conference finals served as another test for veteran leadership in the league’s evolving landscape. Whether Harden can rebound and contribute to a deeper playoff run next season remains to be seen, but Mitchell’s defense provides a counterpoint to immediate criticism and invites reflection on how NBA legacies are constructed over time.

The Cavaliers will look to address defensive inconsistencies and perimeter shooting depth in the coming months. For now, Mitchell’s words offer a reminder that championship paths are rarely linear, even for the game’s most accomplished players.

LONDON — Mike Tindall, husband of Zara Tindall and a member of the extended British royal family, has offered a rare glimpse into the lighter side of Princess Kate, revealing that the Princess of Wales continues to participate in a popular drinking game with relatives. Tindall described Kate as “uber competitive” during family gatherings, where the group often plays a refined version of beer pong using prosecco.

In a recent interview with Woman & Home magazine, the former England rugby player highlighted the competitive spirit that runs through the royal family. “I knew that the Princess of Wales was uber competitive because I’d seen her play a drinking game called beer pong, but normally we play prosecco pong! She still plays it with us,” Tindall said.

The comments shed light on a more relaxed aspect of royal family life, far from the formal duties and public appearances that define the institution. Tindall, married to Princess Anne’s daughter since 2011, has previously spoken about the family’s shared passion for sports and competition. He noted that “sport is rife throughout the royal family — everyone is competitive.”

This latest revelation builds on a 2023 podcast episode of “The Good, The Bad & The Rugby,” which Tindall co-hosts. During that recording at Windsor Castle with Prince William, Kate and Princess Anne, Tindall teased Kate about her competitive nature. When she playfully responded, “I’m not competitive at all,” he replied by referencing her prowess at the game.

Kate and William have long been associated with an active lifestyle, from sports days with their children to patronages involving athletics and wellness. The couple, who reside primarily at Adelaide Cottage in Windsor with Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, often emphasize family time and outdoor activities. The prosecco pong anecdote humanizes the Princess of Wales, portraying her as someone who engages fully in casual family moments.

However, Kate’s approach to alcohol has evolved in recent years. In March 2026, during a visit to the Southwark Brewing Company in London with William, she openly discussed reducing her consumption following her 2024 cancer diagnosis. “Since my diagnosis, I haven’t had much alcohol. It’s something I have to be a lot more conscious of now,” she said at the time.

She has been in remission since early 2025 and has focused on recovery while gradually resuming public duties. The Princess continues to prioritize health and family, appearing composed and active in recent engagements. Tindall’s comments about the game do not specify frequency or context but suggest it remains part of occasional family fun.

The royal family has a well-documented affinity for sports. William and Kate regularly attend athletic events, support various teams and encourage physical activity among young people through initiatives like the Heads Together mental health campaign. Tindall’s rugby background and his podcast have provided additional platforms to discuss these interests.

Public reaction to Tindall’s interview has been largely positive, with many appreciating the relatable portrayal of a senior royal enjoying simple pleasures. Social media users noted the contrast between Kate’s polished public image and her competitive edge in private settings. Some drew parallels to how other public figures balance formality with personal enjoyment.

Royal commentators view such disclosures as strategic in showing the family’s human side without compromising dignity. Tindall, known for his straightforward style, has occasionally offered candid insights into royal dynamics while maintaining respect for boundaries. His marriage to Zara has integrated him deeply into the family circle, where informal gatherings at estates like Windsor provide opportunities for such activities.

The game itself, often called prosecco pong in royal circles, adapts the classic American party game by substituting beer with sparkling wine. It involves teams aiming to land balls into opponents’ cups, with the losing side typically drinking the contents. Its mention underscores a casual, lighthearted tradition among the younger generation of royals and their spouses.

Kate’s competitive streak extends beyond games. She has spoken previously about intense tennis matches with William that sometimes go unfinished due to their mutual drive to win. This trait appears shared across the family, from Prince William’s love of polo to Princess Anne’s equestrian achievements and the late Queen Elizabeth II’s known enthusiasm for horseracing.

As Kate continues her recovery and public role, such stories contribute to a narrative of resilience and normalcy. She has increased her workload in 2026, focusing on early childhood development, mental health and sports initiatives. Her presence at events remains graceful, even as she navigates post-treatment life with greater health awareness.

Buckingham Palace has not commented on Tindall’s remarks, consistent with its policy on private family matters. The anecdote arrives amid broader interest in royal personal lives, especially following health challenges faced by senior members in recent years. It also coincides with ongoing discussions about modernization and relatability within the monarchy.

For many observers, the story reinforces that even those at the pinnacle of British society enjoy moments of fun and friendly rivalry. Mike Tindall’s willingness to share these details adds warmth to the public perception of the Wales family, balancing their official responsibilities with glimpses of everyday joys.

As summer approaches, the royals are expected to participate in traditional events like Royal Ascot and Trooping the Colour, where public and private worlds intersect. Whether prosecco pong features in any post-event gatherings remains a private matter, but Tindall’s comments ensure the competitive spirit of the family stays in the spotlight for the moment.

Small details can sink large tax deductions for charitable donations. 

A case in point: Two recent Tax Court decisions involving first cousins who donated 13.3 acres of land to Highland City, Utah, in 2018. The judge ruled that Stephen Martin and Clint Martin, who were close growing up and later did business together, can’t deduct $665,000 for the land donation. A limited liability company owned by the cousins acquired the land for $22,000 at a delinquent-tax auction in 2014.

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Middle East conflict and rising oil prices could weaken the Thai baht to 33 per dollar. Thailand’s reliance on oil imports makes it vulnerable to increased costs, potentially impacting its trade balance and currency value.

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Key Points

• The Thai baht could weaken beyond 33 per US dollar due to rising Middle East war-driven oil prices.
• Thailand’s status as a net oil importer means higher import costs, potentially shifting its trade surplus into a deficit and increasing baht volatility.
• In a prolonged conflict, oil prices exceeding $100 per barrel would likely push the baht to near 33 against the dollar.

Escalating Middle East Conflict’s Impact on the Baht

The ongoing escalation of conflict in the Middle East poses a significant threat to the Thai baht, with K-Research predicting a potential weakening to 33 baht per US dollar. This projection is primarily driven by the anticipated surge in global oil prices. As a net oil importer, Thailand faces a substantial increase in its import bill, which directly impacts its trade balance. The baht has already experienced a decline, reaching a three-month low, reflecting capital flight towards the US dollar as a safe-haven asset. This trend is further bolstered by expectations that the US Federal Reserve may adopt a more cautious approach to interest rate cuts due to rising inflation.

Economic Ramifications of Sustained High Oil Prices

Should the conflict in the Middle East persist, leading to a prolonged period of high oil prices, the economic consequences for Thailand could be severe. K-Research estimates that if oil prices consistently exceed $100 per barrel, the baht is highly likely to depreciate towards the 33 mark. This scenario would drastically erode Thailand’s trade surplus, potentially pushing it into a deficit. The country’s significant reliance on oil imports, accounting for approximately 5-6% of its GDP, makes it particularly vulnerable compared to neighboring Southeast Asian nations. This heightened economic vulnerability contributes to increased volatility in the baht.

Increased Baht Volatility and Market Outlook

Beyond the direct impact on oil prices, the geopolitical tensions are contributing to increased volatility in the baht. Year-to-date, baht volatility has risen to 7.7%, surpassing the median for regional currencies. This elevated volatility, coupled with other domestic economic pressures, creates an uncertain trading environment. In the near term, SCB Financial Markets anticipates the baht to trade within a range of 31.6 to 31.9 against the US dollar. This outlook is influenced by the strengthening of the dollar index, driven by the intensifying fighting in the Middle East and the consequent demand for the greenback as a secure investment.

Source : Bangkok Post – Baht faces pressure from oil upswing

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Triveni Engineering & Industries Ltd reported a consolidated net profit of Rs 167.4 crore for the quarter ended March 31, 2026, compared with Rs187.1 crore in the same period last year. Revenue for the quarter stood at Rs 1,833.7 crore, against Rs 1,925.3 crore a year earlier.

For the full financial year 2025-26, revenue from operations rose 11.9% to Rs 7,620.9 crore from Rs 6,807.9 crore in FY25. Net profit for the year increased 12.8% to Rs 268.7 crore, compared with Rs 238.3 crore in the previous financial year.

The company said its results include the financial impact of the amalgamation of Sir Shadi Lal Enterprises Ltd, effective April 1, 2025. The figures have been restated to reflect the acquisition date of June 20, 2024.

Triveni Engineering said the National Company Law Tribunal-approved Composite Scheme of Arrangement became effective on May 19, 2026, completing the merger and demerger process. Under the scheme, Sir Shadi Lal Enterprises has been amalgamated with Triveni, while the Power Transmission Business will be demerged into Triveni Power Transmission Ltd with effect from April 1, 2026.

The accounting impact of the demerger will be reflected in FY27. FY26 will be the last year in which the Power Transmission Business forms part of Triveni Engineering’s consolidated results. The business, which operates in the gears and defence segments, will be pursued independently under Triveni Power Transmission Ltd from FY27.