SAN ANTONIO — The Oklahoma City Thunder held Victor Wembanyama to 26 points on 8-of-15 shooting in a 123-108 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 3 of the 2026 Western Conference Finals on May 22 at Frost Bank Center.

The Thunder took a 2-1 series lead with the win. Wembanyama added four rebounds, three assists, one steal and two blocks in the loss. He scored 41 points and grabbed 24 rebounds in Game 1 and posted 21 points with 17 rebounds in Game 2.

Defensive Adjustments

Thunder coach Mark Daigneault utilized multiple defenders against the 7-foot-4 Wembanyama, including Isaiah Hartenstein, Chet Holmgren and wing players. Oklahoma City employed physical defense, contesting shots and limiting Wembanyama’s drives to the rim.

Wembanyama made six of 10 shots inside the arc. The Thunder built a wall between him and the basket, forcing more perimeter attempts. He did not score his first two-point basket until late in the third quarter.

The Thunder outscored the Spurs 97-77 after the first period. Oklahoma City’s bench produced a playoff record 76 points in the game.

Series Context

The Spurs won Game 1 in double overtime 122-115 in Oklahoma City behind Wembanyama’s 41-point, 24-rebound performance. The Thunder responded with a 122-113 home victory in Game 2, limiting Wembanyama to 21 points.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 26 points and 12 assists in Game 3. Jared McCain scored a playoff career-high 24 points off the bench. Jaylin Williams added 18 points with five three-pointers.

For the Spurs, Devin Vassell scored 20 points. De’Aaron Fox added 15 points in his series debut after missing Game 2 with an ankle injury. Dylan Harper remained sidelined with an adductor injury.

Wembanyama’s Playoff Performance

Wembanyama has averaged strong numbers through the first three games of the series. He has recorded multiple double-doubles and continued to impact the game defensively with blocks and rim protection.

The Spurs have relied heavily on the 22-year-old Defensive Player of the Year candidate. San Antonio’s bench was outscored 76-23 in Game 3.

Coaching Comments

Daigneault emphasized depth and physicality after the Game 3 win. He noted the importance of the bench in overcoming the early 15-0 deficit.

Gilgeous-Alexander addressed the slow start, saying the team focused on competing possession by possession after the Spurs’ opening run.

Wembanyama expressed disappointment following the Game 3 loss but highlighted team effort. He has faced increased physical play throughout the series, with defenders grabbing and pushing to disrupt his positioning.

Broader Series Outlook

Game 4 is scheduled for Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Frost Bank Center. The series could return to Oklahoma City for Game 5 if necessary.

The Thunder have shown the ability to adjust defensively after Wembanyama’s dominant Game 1 performance. San Antonio has countered with strong starts but struggled to sustain output against Oklahoma City’s depth.

The matchup features two young cores. Oklahoma City, the defending champions, have utilized bench scoring and defensive versatility. The Spurs have leaned on Wembanyama’s versatility and contributions from players like Stephon Castle and Devin Vassell.

Historical Notes

Wembanyama’s scoring and rebounding totals through the first two games placed him among elite company historically. The Thunder’s strategy in Games 2 and 3 focused on making his touches more difficult and contesting shots at the rim.

Physical play has been a theme. Spurs players have noted instances of grabbing and jersey tugging, while Thunder defenders have emphasized legal physicality within playoff parameters.

Upcoming Factors

Player availability will remain key. The Spurs hope for returns or increased contributions from injured guards. The Thunder will monitor Jalen Williams’ hamstring status after he missed Game 3.

Both teams have young talent and future assets. The series has featured high-level basketball with clutch moments and defensive stands. Further adjustments are expected as the Western Conference Finals progresses.

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump canceled plans to attend his son Donald Trump Jr.’s wedding and returned to the White House on Friday after a speech in New York as senior officials reviewed the status of negotiations with Iran and possible military options if diplomacy fails.

Trump posted on Truth Social: “While I very much wanted to be with my son, Don Jr., and the newest member of the Trump Family, his soon-to-be wife, Bettina, circumstances pertaining to Government, and my love for the United States of America, do not allow me to do so. I feel it is important for me to remain in Washington, D.C., at the White House during this important period of time. Congratulations to Don and Bettina!”

The White House altered Trump’s weekend schedule after a morning meeting with senior national security officials. The president had been scheduled to stay at his Bedminster golf club in New Jersey following the New York event.

National Security Meeting

Trump convened Vice President J.D. Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Central Intelligence Agency Director John Ratcliffe and White House chief of staff Susie Wiles at the White House on Friday morning. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was in Europe and Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was attending the U.S. Naval Academy graduation ceremony.

The meeting reviewed the status of talks with Iran and possible scenarios if diplomacy collapsed. No final decision was made on next steps, according to reports.

Trump had been presented with options for restarting military action. Earlier in the week, he said he had been an hour away from ordering strikes before holding back at the request of Gulf nations.

Diplomatic Efforts

Delegations from Qatar and Pakistan traveled to Tehran on Friday in an effort to end the conflict. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghaei said there were still significant differences between the Iranian and U.S. positions and that an agreement would require more time and further negotiations.

Pakistan has served as the official mediator since fighting began, while Qatar has acted as a back channel between Washington and Tehran. Doha had previously distanced itself from mediation after coming under attack from Iranian missiles and drones.

A shaky ceasefire has been in place since U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran began on Feb. 28. The situation has been complicated by a U.S. blockade of Iranian ports and Tehran’s effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Strait of Hormuz Developments

President Trump stated the United States does not want tolls imposed in the Strait of Hormuz. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said any Iranian tolling system in the waterway would be considered “illegal.”

U.S. Central Command reported that American forces have redirected 97 commercial ships during the blockade of Iranian ports. The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency said threats in the Strait of Hormuz and Persian Gulf remained at a “critical” level and traffic through the strait was “significantly reduced.”

Regional Sanctions

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the Iran-backed Hezbollah terrorist group in Lebanon “must be fully disarmed.” The Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control imposed sanctions on nine individuals linked to Hezbollah, accusing them of obstructing Lebanon’s peace process.

Military Perspective

Retired U.S. Navy Cmdr. Kirk Lippold, former commanding officer of the USS Cole, said renewed American combat operations against Iran appear increasingly likely. Speaking on “America Reports,” Lippold stated it is now “a matter of not if, but when the United States is going to recommence combat operations.”

Lippold added, “The president has given the Iranians every opportunity to come to the right answer through diplomatic channels. Iran will not give up their nuclear program.”

He suggested the administration is using negotiations to allow the U.S. military time to “rearm, refuel, and be ready for combat operations.” Lippold advised against publicly declaring negotiations over to avoid giving Iran preparation time.

Congressional Action

House Republican leaders canceled a planned vote on a resolution that would have restricted Trump’s ability to engage in military action against Iran without congressional approval. The delay reflects ongoing discussions within the party.

Background on Tensions

The current conflict escalated with U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran beginning Feb. 28. Negotiations have involved multiple international mediators but have faced significant obstacles regarding Iran’s nuclear program and regional security issues.

Iranian state media reported that current talks are not addressing Tehran’s nuclear program. A Qatari team remained in Tehran to support discussions.

The Strait of Hormuz handles a significant portion of global oil transport. Disruptions have raised concerns about energy prices and international shipping costs.

Trump Family Wedding

Donald Trump Jr. was scheduled to marry Bettina in a private ceremony. The wedding plans were adjusted due to the evolving international situation. Trump expressed congratulations to the couple in his Truth Social post.

The decision to remain in Washington underscores the administration’s focus on the Iran situation during a critical diplomatic window. Officials continue to monitor developments in the Persian Gulf region.

This article was written by

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NEW YORK — Microsoft Corp. shares closed at $418.57 on May 22, 2026, down 0.12% for the session on the Nasdaq. In after-hours trading, shares fell further to around $417.80.

The stock traded in a daily range between approximately $416.34 and $424.40. Volume was elevated as investors assessed recent AI-related developments and the company’s fiscal third-quarter performance.

Fiscal Q3 2026 Results

Microsoft reported fiscal third-quarter 2026 revenue of $82.9 billion, up 18% year-over-year. Operating income reached $38.4 billion, up 20%. GAAP diluted earnings per share were $4.27.

Microsoft Cloud revenue exceeded $54 billion, growing 29% year-over-year. The company’s AI business achieved an annual revenue run rate of more than $37 billion, up 123% year-over-year.

Azure and other cloud services showed strong demand. Commercial remaining performance obligation increased 99% to $627 billion.

Strategic AI Initiatives

Microsoft continued expanding its partnership with OpenAI and integrated AI capabilities across its product portfolio, including Microsoft 365 Copilot. The company added millions of paid Copilot users during the quarter.

Capital expenditures remained elevated to support AI infrastructure growth. Management projected continued double-digit revenue growth with particular emphasis on cloud and AI acceleration.

Analyst Views

Analysts maintained largely positive ratings. Wedbush reiterated an Outperform rating with a $575 price target in mid-May. Consensus price targets ranged from approximately $560 to higher levels, with several firms citing strong AI momentum.

The company’s forward dividend yield stood near 0.87% following the ex-dividend date of May 21, 2026.

Recent Developments

Microsoft engaged in new AI partnerships, including discussions with Anthropic for chip usage. The company hired game industry analyst Matthew Ball for its Xbox division.

Activision Blizzard shareholders reached a $250 million settlement related to Microsoft’s acquisition of the gaming company. The Gates Foundation sold its remaining Microsoft shares.

Financial Position

Microsoft maintained a strong balance sheet with consistent cash flow generation. The company continued share repurchases and dividend payments as part of its capital return program. Headcount declined slightly year-over-year amid efficiency initiatives.

Market Context

Microsoft operates in a competitive technology landscape with significant exposure to cloud computing and artificial intelligence. The company faces ongoing regulatory scrutiny in multiple jurisdictions related to market practices and AI development.

Shares have shown volatility in 2026 amid broader questions about returns on massive AI infrastructure investments. Despite strong earnings beats, the stock has underperformed some megacap peers year-to-date in certain periods.

Outlook Factors

Microsoft guided for continued growth in its Intelligent Cloud segment. Azure growth expectations for the fiscal fourth quarter were set between 39% and 40% at constant currency.

Next earnings are scheduled for late July 2026. Analysts will monitor AI monetization progress, margin trends and capital spending efficiency. The company continues investing heavily in data centers and AI talent.

Broader Industry Trends

Demand for cloud services and AI solutions has driven growth across major technology firms. Microsoft competes directly with Amazon Web Services and Google Cloud while maintaining leadership in enterprise productivity software.

The stock’s valuation reflects expectations for sustained AI-driven expansion. Microsoft’s market capitalization remains among the largest globally. Trading activity on May 22 reflected mixed sentiment amid sector rotation and macroeconomic factors.

NEW YORK — As the 2026 NBA playoffs continue, attention is shifting toward the upcoming free agency period, which features several high-profile names and a mix of veteran stars and younger talent.

Analysts have released early rankings of the top available players for the 2026 offseason. Here is a consensus top 10 based on recent evaluations from ESPN, Bleacher Report and other sources as of May 23, 2026.

1. LeBron James, Forward, Los Angeles Lakers

LeBron James, 41, heads into unrestricted free agency after another strong season with the Lakers. The four-time NBA champion and 22-year veteran averaged strong numbers and remains one of the league’s most impactful players. His decision will be among the most watched storylines of the summer.

2. Norman Powell, Guard, Miami Heat

Norman Powell had a breakout 2025-26 season and earned his first All-Star selection. The 32-year-old shooting guard provides scoring, defense and playoff experience. He is expected to command significant interest on the open market.

3. CJ McCollum, Guard, Atlanta Hawks

CJ McCollum, 34, remains one of the league’s most polished perimeter scorers. The veteran guard brings steady ball-handling, shot creation and leadership. He is viewed as a strong fit for contending teams seeking backcourt stability.

4. Coby White, Guard, Charlotte Hornets

Coby White has emerged as a dynamic young guard. His scoring ability and playmaking have drawn attention from multiple teams. White is among the more intriguing younger names in the class.

5. Ayo Dosunmu, Guard, Chicago Bulls

Ayo Dosunmu has shown consistent growth. The guard provides defense, athleticism and improving offensive skills. He is expected to be a target for teams looking for backcourt depth and upside.

6. James Harden, Guard, Cleveland Cavaliers

James Harden, 36, holds a player option but is widely expected to test free agency. The veteran point guard continues to produce at a high level as a scorer and playmaker. His experience makes him a sought-after addition for playoff contenders.

7. Austin Reaves, Guard, Los Angeles Lakers

Austin Reaves has a player option for 2026-27. The guard has developed into a reliable starter with strong shooting and playmaking skills. His future with the Lakers or on the open market is a major storyline.

8. Trae Young, Guard, Washington Wizards

Trae Young enters free agency with a player option. The 27-year-old point guard remains one of the league’s top offensive creators when healthy. His scoring and passing ability will attract significant interest.

9. Zach LaVine, Guard, Sacramento Kings

Zach LaVine is another high-profile name with a player option. The athletic scorer has shown flashes of his All-Star form. Health and consistency will factor into his market value.

10. Jalen Duren, Center, Detroit Pistons

Jalen Duren is eligible for restricted free agency. The young center has shown promise as a rebounder and rim protector. Teams will need to weigh his upside against offers that could trigger matching rights.

Additional Notable Names

Other prominent players expected to hit free agency or exercise options include Rui Hachimura, Tobias Harris, Khris Middleton, Kristaps Porzingis and John Collins. Several restricted free agents such as Walker Kessler and Tari Eason could also impact the market.

Free Agency Context

The 2026 free agency period officially begins in early July following the NBA Draft in June. Teams eliminated early from the playoffs have already begun internal planning. The class is considered relatively strong at the top but thinner in elite star power compared to some previous years.

LeBron James’ decision will influence several franchises. Teams with cap space or trade assets are preparing aggressive pursuits. Salary cap projections and luxury tax thresholds will shape offer sheets, particularly for mid-tier veterans.

Team Strategies

Contending teams are expected to target veteran additions for immediate impact. Rebuilding franchises may focus on younger restricted free agents or cost-controlled talent. Sign-and-trade possibilities could play a major role for players on expiring deals.

The Western Conference remains highly competitive, with the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs currently in the Western Conference Finals. Eastern Conference teams such as the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers are also monitoring the market closely.

Historical Precedent

Past free agency classes have seen major shifts in league balance. The 2026 class features a blend of aging stars like James and Harden alongside players in their prime such as Powell and Young. Contract values are expected to rise for proven contributors amid the league’s growing salary cap.

Analysts will update rankings as the playoffs conclude and more players officially enter free agency. Player options, team options and extensions will further shape the available pool.

Market Factors

Teams must balance short-term contention with long-term flexibility. The new collective bargaining agreement rules continue to influence spending decisions. Mid-level exceptions and veteran minimum deals will be key tools for roster building.

MIAMI — Lionel Messi, who led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title in Qatar, has kept open the possibility of playing in this summer’s 2026 tournament as the defending champions aim for back-to-back victories.

The 38-year-old forward, who turns 39 on June 24, was included in Argentina’s 55-man preliminary squad released in May 2026. Coach Lionel Scaloni has said he will do everything possible to ensure Messi’s participation, though the final 26-man roster is expected to be announced between May 28 and 29.

Messi has not given a definitive commitment but has repeatedly tied his decision to his physical condition. In a December 2025 interview with ESPN, he said, “I hope I can be there. I’ve said before that I’d love to be there. At worst, I’ll be there watching it live, but it will be special.”

Current Form and Fitness

Messi has shown strong form with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer during the 2026 season, leading the league in goals and assists at points. He has dealt with occasional injuries but has continued to produce at a high level for club and country.

Argentina manager Scaloni has monitored Messi’s fitness closely. The player participated in recent friendlies and remains central to the team’s plans, though he has emphasized he does not want to be a burden if not fully fit.

Argentina’s World Cup Outlook

Argentina enters the 2026 World Cup as one of the top contenders. The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, features an expanded 48-team format. Argentina opens Group J against Algeria on June 16 in Kansas City.

The team has maintained strong form since winning in Qatar. Despite occasional losses in qualifiers, Argentina has produced consistent results with a blend of veterans and younger talents such as Enzo Fernández, Julián Álvarez and Nico Paz.

Messi has named several strong opponents, including France, Spain and Brazil as teams in excellent shape. He has played down Argentina’s status as clear favorites while acknowledging the depth of competition.

Path to Repeat Success

A repeat victory would make Argentina the first team to win consecutive World Cups since Brazil in 1962. Messi would become the first player to win two World Cups as captain and feature in six different editions of the tournament.

Argentina’s squad features experience from the 2022 campaign alongside emerging stars. Key players include Lautaro Martínez, Rodrigo De Paul and defenders such as Cristian Romero. Several squad members are recovering from injuries, with medical teams monitoring their progress ahead of the final roster cut.

Messi’s International Legacy

Messi has 180 caps for Argentina and holds numerous national team records. His 2022 World Cup performance, where he scored seven goals and provided three assists, cemented his status as one of the greatest players in history. He also led Argentina to Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024.

In MLS, Messi has elevated Inter Miami and drawn record crowds. His club performances have fueled discussions about his readiness for another international campaign at age 39.

Preparation and Challenges

Argentina has faced mixed results in friendlies and qualifiers while preparing for the expanded tournament. The team has dealt with injuries to key players and political distractions within the Argentine Football Association, though players have tried to focus on football matters.

Messi has described the 2026 World Cup as a special opportunity but has stressed the importance of feeling physically and mentally prepared. He has trained with the national team during international windows while balancing club commitments.

Global Context

The 2026 World Cup features heightened expectations with more teams and matches. Betting odds list Argentina among the top favorites alongside France, England, Spain and Brazil. Messi remains a leading candidate for the Golden Boot in some markets despite his age.

Other nations have closely watched Argentina’s preparation. France, the 2022 runner-up, has rebuilt under new management with a young core. Spain and England have shown strong form in recent competitions.

Messi’s Decision Timeline

Scaloni has indicated the final decision on Messi’s participation will come closer to the tournament. The player has said he will evaluate his condition day by day during the lead-up, including preseason with Inter Miami.

If Messi plays, it would likely be in a reduced role focused on his creativity and experience rather than full 90-minute appearances. Argentina’s depth allows for tactical flexibility around their captain.

The tournament begins June 11, 2026. Argentina’s group stage matches will test their defending champion credentials early. Success would represent a historic achievement for Messi and the national team.

MADRID — Cristiano Ronaldo earned a record $300 million in the 2025-26 season to top the Forbes list of the world’s highest-paid athletes for the fourth consecutive year, according to the publication’s annual ranking released on May 22, 2026.

The 41-year-old Portugal captain and Al-Nassr forward collected $235 million in salary from the Saudi Pro League club and an additional $65 million from endorsements and commercial partnerships, Spanish outlet AS reported. The total matches the all-time single-year record previously set by boxer Floyd Mayweather.

Ronaldo’s earnings reflect the growing financial power of football and the impact of Saudi Arabia’s investments in the sport. He has played for Al-Nassr since December 2022.

Top 10 Highest-Paid Athletes 2026

Forbes released the following top 10 list:

1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Football, Al-Nassr) — $300 million ($235 million salary + $65 million endorsements)
2. Saul “Canelo” Alvarez (Boxing) — $170 million ($160 million prize money + $10 million endorsements)
3. Lionel Messi (Football, Inter Miami) — $140 million ($70 million salary + $70 million endorsements)
4. LeBron James (Basketball) — $138 million ($52 million salary + $86 million endorsements)
5. Shohei Ohtani (Baseball) — $127 million ($2.6 million salary + $125 million endorsements)
6. Stephen Curry (Basketball) — $125 million ($60 million salary + $65 million endorsements)
7. Jon Rahm (Golf) — $106 million ($97 million prize money + $9 million endorsements)
8. Karim Benzema (Football, Al-Ittihad) — $104 million ($100 million salary + $4 million endorsements)
9. Kevin Durant (Basketball) — $103 million ($54 million salary + $49 million endorsements)
10. Lewis Hamilton (Formula 1) — $100 million ($70 million salary + $30 million endorsements)

Lionel Messi, playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, placed third with $140 million. Karim Benzema, another former Real Madrid striker now with Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, finished eighth with $104 million.

Saudi Arabia’s Role

Saudi Arabia’s investment in football has significantly influenced athlete salaries. The Saudi Pro League has attracted several high-profile players in recent years, contributing to the elevated earnings for Ronaldo and Benzema. The kingdom continues to develop its sports infrastructure and global profile through clubs like Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad.

Ronaldo’s Career Earnings

Ronaldo has consistently ranked among the highest-paid athletes. His $300 million haul in 2025-26 marks the first time the $300 million threshold has been reached since Mayweather set the record. The Portugal international has maintained strong commercial appeal with long-term partnerships including Nike, Clear, and other global brands.

At age 41, Ronaldo continues to perform at a high level for Al-Nassr, scoring regularly in the Saudi league and contributing for the Portugal national team. He remains one of football’s most marketable figures with a massive global fan base.

Messi’s Position

Lionel Messi earned $140 million in his first full season with Inter Miami. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner split earnings between salary and endorsements. His move to Major League Soccer in 2023 has boosted the league’s visibility and commercial value.

Broader List Insights

Boxer Canelo Alvarez ranked second with $170 million, primarily from prize money. NBA stars LeBron James, Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant all exceeded $100 million, driven by a combination of salaries and endorsement deals. Baseball’s Shohei Ohtani earned the highest off-field income on the list at $125 million.

Golf’s Jon Rahm and Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton rounded out the top 10 with strong earnings from prize money and sponsorships.

Industry Trends

The Forbes list highlights the continued growth of athlete earnings across sports. Football and basketball dominate the upper ranks, while individual sports such as boxing, golf and auto racing also feature prominently. Endorsement income has become increasingly important, often surpassing on-field or in-ring earnings for many athletes.

Saudi Arabia’s sports investments have reshaped the global landscape. The arrival of players like Ronaldo and Benzema has elevated the Saudi Pro League’s profile and financial standing.

Ronaldo’s Impact

Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr after leaving Manchester United in late 2022. His presence has drawn record viewership and sponsorship interest to the league. The forward has scored over 50 goals in multiple seasons with the club and continues to break scoring records.

His commercial portfolio includes clothing lines, fragrances, hotels and fitness brands. Ronaldo maintains one of the largest social media followings among athletes, which enhances his endorsement value.

Comparison With Previous Years

Ronaldo previously topped the Forbes list in 2023, 2024 and 2025. His earnings have grown steadily with new contracts and sponsorship deals. The 2025-26 season marked a significant jump, driven largely by his Al-Nassr salary structure.

Messi has also seen increased earnings since joining Inter Miami, benefiting from Apple and Adidas partnerships tied to the league.

Global Sports Economy

The rise in top athlete earnings reflects broader trends in sports commercialization. Broadcasting deals, sponsorships and digital media have increased revenue streams. Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund has played a major role through ownership stakes in multiple clubs.

The 2026 Forbes list comes as the football world prepares for the expanded 48-team World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Ronaldo has not yet confirmed his participation with Portugal, but his club form remains strong.