Connect with us

Sports

2026 NBA Mock Draft: After hiring Dusty May, Mavericks take Michigan big man Aday Mara

Published

on

Advertisement

Kansas

• Fr

Advertisement

• 6’5″

/ 200 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Washington

PROSPECT RNK

2nd

POSITION RNK

1st

PPG

20.2

RPG

4.2

APG

1.6

3P%

38.2%

This pick should come down to Peterson or Dybantsa. The Wizards can’t go wrong with either prospect. Like I’ve said for the last calendar year, I strongly believe that Peterson is the best player in the class. It might be a shocker to some if Peterson goes here, but I personally think he is a better fit in Washington than Utah.

Advertisement

BYU

Advertisement

• Fr

• 6’9″

/ 217 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Utah

Advertisement
PROSPECT RNK

1st

POSITION RNK

1st

PPG

25.5

RPG

6.8

APG

3.7

3P%

33.1%

The Jazz would have their vision fulfilled when Dybantsa arrived to the state of Utah as a high school senior at Utah Prep if he is available here. If Peterson is off the board, Dybantsa would be the most logical pick at 2. It’s hard to see Utah passing on him.

Duke

• Fr

• 6’8″

/ 250 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Memphis

Advertisement

PROSPECT RNK

3rd

POSITION RNK

1st

PPG

22.5

RPG

10.2

APG

4.1

3P%

39.1%

Boozer had one of the best one-and-done seasons in college basketball history at Duke and would add playmaking, rebounding and scoring to Memphis. Boozer has almost become underrated this draft cycle. He would be the clear-cut No. 1 pick in most draft classes.

North Carolina

• Fr

• 6’9″

Advertisement

/ 210 lbs

Projected Team

Advertisement

Chicago

PROSPECT RNK

4th

POSITION RNK

2nd

PPG

19.8

RPG

9.4

APG

2.7

3P%

25.9%

The Bulls have the easiest decision to make on draft night. Whatever prospect of the “Big Four” is available, that’s the pick. Wilson to Chicago seems like one of the most likely pairings on draft night. Wilson has untapped potential on the offensive end of the floor and would add athleticism and defense to a franchise looking for a 1A-type player.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Illinois

• Fr

Advertisement

• 6’5″

/ 188 lbs

Advertisement
PPG

17.9

RPG

5.1

APG

4.2

3P%

39.7%

For me, this is where the draft starts. The Clippers can swing the draft by taking any of the point guards projected in this range. In this mock, the Clippers take Wagler, who led Illinois to the Final Four as a freshman. This is also the spot where the first big trade of the night could happen if the Clippers are confident someone like Brayden Burries would be there in the later portion of the lottery.

Louisville

• Fr

• 6’4″

/ 190 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Brooklyn

Advertisement

PROSPECT RNK

8th

POSITION RNK

5th

PPG

18.2

RPG

3.3

APG

4.7

3P%

34.4%

Brown missed time at Louisville last season due to a back injury. If he’s healthy and the medicals are clean, he has a chance to be the best point guard in this draft. Brooklyn needs talent after having a lackluster draft despite making five first round picks last summer. Brown checks those boxes.

Arkansas

• Fr

• 6’2″

Advertisement

/ 185 lbs

Projected Team

Advertisement

Sacramento

PROSPECT RNK

6th

POSITION RNK

3rd

PPG

23.5

RPG

3.1

APG

6.4

3P%

44%

The worst kept secret in the NBA Draft is the Kings admiration for Acuff. Kings general manager Scott Perry coached his father in the 1990s when he was the coach at Eastern Kentucky. Acuff, in my opinion, is the best true point guard in the draft. He can be an offensive engine in the NBA. That’s exactly what Sacramento needs. There has been a lot of talk about Sacramento potentially trading up to secure Acuff. I’ll believe it when I see it.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Houston

• Fr

Advertisement

• 6’3″

/ 183 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Atlanta

PROSPECT RNK

7th

POSITION RNK

4th

PPG

16.1

RPG

4.1

APG

5.2

3P%

38.7%

The Hawks, in this scenario, will likely be deciding between Mara or Flemings. In this mock, the Hawks take Flemings, who can be an immediate two-way impact as a rookie.

Advertisement

Michigan

Advertisement

• Jr

• 7’3″

/ 260 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Dallas

Advertisement
PROSPECT RNK

11th

POSITION RNK

1st

PPG

12.1

RPG

6.8

APG

2.4

3P%

30%

Any of the players from Michigan’s frontcourt would be a natural fit with Dallas. The one that intrigues me the most is Mara going to the Mavericks. Yes, Dallas has a log-jam already at the center position with Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively III, but Mara’s fit with Dallas makes a ton of sense. Mara was one of the best shot blockers in college basketball and was the defensive anchor of Michigan’s national title team. He is a unique prospect because of his skill set as a 7-foot-3 big man without shoes. If he can develop as a shooter – or at least a threat as a pick-and-pop option, it would do wonders for his game.

Tennessee

• Fr

• 6’10”

/ 211 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Milwaukee

Advertisement

PROSPECT RNK

10th

POSITION RNK

3rd

PPG

16.7

RPG

6.3

APG

2.3

3P%

33.3%

In this mock draft, we projected Giannis to be traded to the Heat. The Bucks own this pick already and use it to draft Ament, who is one of the biggest boom-or-bust prospects in the class. Ament showed signs of improvement throughout his freshman season at Tennessee but there are question marks about his efficiency after shooting less than 40% from the field last season.

Michigan

• Sr

• 6’9″

Advertisement

/ 241 lbs

Projected Team

Advertisement

Golden St.

PROSPECT RNK

12th

POSITION RNK

4th

PPG

15.1

RPG

6.8

APG

3.2

3P%

37.2%

In my last mock draft, I had the Warriors taking Morez Johnson Jr. In this one, I have Golden State taking his frontcourt mate, Yaxel Lendeborg. Lendeborg, in my opinion, is a clear-cut top 10 player in the class. Yes, there are concerns about his draft age but he is exactly the kind of player Golden State should be targeting in the draft.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Arizona

• Fr

Advertisement

• 6’4″

/ 215 lbs

Advertisement
PPG

16.1

RPG

4.9

APG

2.4

3P%

39.1%

The Thunder have an abundance of riches in their rotation. If the Thunder stick at No. 12, one option that makes sense is Burries. He is a versatile guard who can shoot, rebound and defend. That’s exactly the kind of player OKC tends to target.

Washington

• Fr

• 6’10”

/ 248 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Milwaukee

Advertisement

PROSPECT RNK

16th

POSITION RNK

6th

PPG

18.5

RPG

11.8

APG

1.6

3P%

34%

Another trade! The Bucks use their second first-round pick (after trading Giannis away in this mock trade) to draft a center of the future. Steinbach has some of the best hands in college basketball and was a double-double machine during his time at Washington.

Michigan

• Soph

• 6’9″

Advertisement

/ 250 lbs

Projected Team

Advertisement

Charlotte

PROSPECT RNK

17th

POSITION RNK

7th

PPG

13.1

RPG

7.3

APG

1.2

3P%

34.3%

The Hornets appear to be in the center market this offseason. Although Johnson isn’t a center, he would add size and versatility to Charlotte’s frontcourt. Johnson exploits mismatches on offense and can guard multiple positions on the defensive end of the floor.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Baylor

• Soph

Advertisement

• 6’5″

/ 184 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Chicago

PROSPECT RNK

20th

POSITION RNK

2nd

PPG

18.9

RPG

5.8

APG

2.6

3P%

37.4%

After playing just 41 minutes total last season at Tennessee, Carr transferred to Baylor, where he blossomed into the Bears’ leading scorer. He averaged 18.9 points on 49.4/37.4/80.1 shooting splits. His offensive upside is worth the swing here.

Advertisement

Texas Tech

Advertisement

• Soph

• 6’1″

/ 180 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Memphis

Advertisement
PROSPECT RNK

21st

POSITION RNK

8th

PPG

18.5

RPG

3.6

APG

7.4

3P%

41.5%

After taking a forward at pick No. 3, the Grizzlies take their point guard of the future. Anderson is one of the best shooters in the class. Sixty-five of Anderson’s 108 3-point shots were non-catch-and-shoot makes, which showcases his ability to create his own shot. This is a spot where you would imagine teams call Memphis to gauge a trade down opportunity.

player headshot
Advertisement


Karim Lopez

Advertisement


PF

Mexico

• 6’8″

/ 222 lbs

Advertisement
PPG

11.9

RPG

6.1

APG

2.0

3P%

32.6%

Lopez is the only International player I’ve had in all my mocks. The International class just isn’t as deep as previous seasons. Lopez’s draft range appears to be somewhere in the late lottery or the early 20s.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Alabama

• Fr

Advertisement

• 6’3″

/ 175 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Charlotte

PROSPECT RNK

14th

POSITION RNK

6th

PPG

22

RPG

3.5

APG

5

3P%

39.9%

Philon’s stock boomed during his sophomore season at Alabama where he improved in almost every facet. After taking Johnson at 18, Charlotte adds one of the best point guards in the class just a few picks later.

Advertisement

Stanford

Advertisement

• Fr

• 6’1″

/ 185 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Toronto

Advertisement
PROSPECT RNK

24th

POSITION RNK

9th

PPG

23.2

RPG

3.6

APG

3.6

3P%

35.4%

Okorie is one player who will go higher than expected. He was one of the best scorers in college basketball, and his ability to attack the rim as a guard is special. The Raptors could be in the market for a big man, but taking the BPA also makes sense.

Arizona

• Fr

• 6’7″

/ 245 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

San Antonio

Advertisement

PROSPECT RNK

18th

POSITION RNK

8th

PPG

14.1

RPG

5.6

APG

2.6

3P%

35%

The biggest need for the Spurs heading into the offseason is finding a true 4 to play next to Victor Wembanyama. Peat would make sense in that regard. Although his jumper is a work in progress, he would be a great culture fit with the Spurs. Peat has been a winner at almost every stop in his basketball journey, which is exactly what San Antonio should be targeting.

Santa Clara

• Fr

• 6’8″

Advertisement

/ 225 lbs

Projected Team

Advertisement

Detroit

PROSPECT RNK

28th

POSITION RNK

10th

PPG

11.8

RPG

6.5

APG

1.8

3P%

41.3%

Graves is an analytic darling. He didn’t post eye-popping numbers at Santa Clara, but his advanced numbers told a different story. He could’ve returned to college basketball and cashed in on a huge NIL payday. Instead, he will capitalize on the hype and stay in the draft. Graves should join Jalen Williams and Brandin Podziemski as the latest first-round pick to come out of Santa Clara in the last five drafts.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Duke

• Soph

Advertisement

• 6’6″

/ 186 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Philadelphia

PROSPECT RNK

26th

POSITION RNK

3rd

PPG

15

RPG

3.2

APG

1.3

3P%

36.1%

Peat is someone who has been connected to the 76ers throughout the draft cycle. If he’s off the board, I see the 76ers going BPA. Evans went from almost strictly a pure catch-and-shoot 3-point specialist at Duke during his freshman year to a legit No. 2 scoring option on the No. 1 overall seed in college basketball. Evans almost doubled the amount of 3-pointers he took from this year to last and still knocked them down at a 36.1% clip.

Advertisement

Houston

Advertisement

• Fr

• 6’10”

/ 240 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Atlanta

Advertisement
PROSPECT RNK

22nd

POSITION RNK

9th

PPG

9.5

RPG

7.9

APG

0.7

3P%

33.3%

After taking Flemings at No. 8, Atlanta adds a big man who has untapped potential because of his frame, athleticism and motor. Cenac is going to be a very impactful player in the league if he lands in the right situation.

Arkansas

• Fr

• 6’3″

/ 190 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

New York

Advertisement

PROSPECT RNK

32nd

POSITION RNK

4th

PPG

15.6

RPG

3.8

APG

2.5

3P%

41.6%

The reigning NBA champions could target a big man with this pick. However, one player who makes sense is Thomas. I could see him being a very valuable and impactful scorer off the bench for the Knicks as the franchise chases a repeat.

Kentucky

• Soph

• 6’9″

Advertisement

/ 255 lbs

Projected Team

Advertisement

L.A. Lakers

PROSPECT RNK

13th

POSITION RNK

2nd

PPG

5

RPG

5

APG

0.5

3P%

0

The Lakers biggest need heading into the offseason should be finding a center. If Quaintance is still on the board, that should be the pick. He is one of the most unique prospects in this class. After playing in just four games at Kentucky last season, his stock has taken a hit. Still, when healthy, he is one of the best defenders in the class.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Texas

• Jr

Advertisement

• 6’7″

/ 211 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Denver

PROSPECT RNK

25th

POSITION RNK

2nd

PPG

17.3

RPG

7.5

APG

3.6

3P%

34.4%

I could see Swain going much higher than 26 on draft night because of how thin the wing class is. Swain was productive in his lone season at Texas and has the upside to be a two-way player in the NBA.

Advertisement

Iowa State

Advertisement

• Sr

• 6’8″

/ 246 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Boston

Advertisement
PROSPECT RNK

30th

POSITION RNK

11th

PPG

16.4

RPG

7.4

APG

4.8

3P%

34.5%

This is the first time Jefferson has cracked the first round of my mocks this cycle. The Iowa State big man is a very skilled passer and will be an impactful role player at the next level. It wouldn’t be surprising to see him land somewhere at the end of the first round or with the first few picks of the second.

St. John’s

• Sr

• 6’8″

/ 245 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Brooklyn

Advertisement

PROSPECT RNK

29th

POSITION RNK

5th

PPG

16.3

RPG

7.3

APG

3.5

3P%

30.5%

Ejiofor has a strong case to go at the end of the first round. He was one of the best defenders in college basketball this past season. If Ejiofor doesn’t hear his name called at the end of the first, he will be one of the first five picks of the second round. After trading away Nic Claxton to Chicago, Brooklyn adds a solid depth piece at the end of the first round.

Iowa

• Sr

• 6’3″

Advertisement

/ 190 lbs

Projected Team

Advertisement

Cleveland

PROSPECT RNK

19th

POSITION RNK

7th

PPG

19.8

RPG

2.6

APG

4.4

3P%

35.8%

One of the point guards is bound to slide a bit on draft night. I could see that being Stirtz. The Iowa star has had an incredible rise from playing at the Division II level to being a likely first-round pick. This would be a BPA pick from the Cavs.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Connecticut

• Sr

Advertisement

• 6’10”

/ 265 lbs

Advertisement
Projected Team

Dallas

PROSPECT RNK

27th

POSITION RNK

4th

PPG

14.7

RPG

9

APG

2.3

3P%

0%

Reed had one of the most dominant NCAA Tournament runs of any big man in the modern era. He is a throwback big man who thrives in the post and causes havoc on the defensive end. He averaged a career-high 2.0 blocks per game in his final season of college basketball.

Advertisement

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading
Click to comment

You must be logged in to post a comment Login

Leave a Reply

Sports

‘One day he could captain India’: Selectors explain why 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was named East Zone vice-captain | Cricket News

Published

on

'One day he could captain India': Selectors explain why 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was named East Zone vice-captain
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (ANI Photo)

The East Zone selectors have defended their decision to appoint 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as vice-captain for the upcoming Duleep Trophy, describing the move as part of a long-term leadership plan rather than an indication of the team’s pecking order.While Ishan Kishan‘s appointment as captain was widely expected, the decision to hand the vice-captaincy to Sooryavanshi drew attention, especially with experienced campaigners such as Abhimanyu Easwaran, Mohammed Shami and Mukesh Kumar also part of the squad.Sooryavanshi has featured in only eight first-class matches for Bihar, while Easwaran has played 113 first-class games and previously captained Bengal, India A and other representative sides.Explaining the reasoning behind the decision, Manish Vardhan, Jharkhand’s representative on the East Zone selection committee, said the move was aimed at helping the youngster understand leadership from close quarters.“We are not thinking about the present alone,” Vardhan told Cricinfo. “A vice-captain gets to observe the captain closely and understand how a team is run. We wanted Vaibhav to be more involved with the group because we think it will help him as he develops.“He’s an extremely talented cricketer and is maturing steadily. Giving him this responsibility is another part of that process.”Vardhan also clarified that Sooryavanshi’s appointment does not automatically make him the stand-in captain if Kishan is unavailable. Although the selectors have not discussed that possibility, he suggested that an experienced player would likely take charge while Sooryavanshi continued as vice-captain.According to Vardhan, the committee’s thinking behind appointing Kishan as captain was also based on long-term planning, with both Kishan and Sooryavanshi viewed as players capable of remaining in India’s setup for many years.“The vice-captain’s role isn’t about status,” Vardhan said. “It’s about what a young player can learn while working alongside the captain.”Former Odisha cricketer and current selector-coach Pravanjan Mullick echoed those views, pointing out that Sooryavanshi has already served as Bihar’s vice-captain in first-class cricket.“Ishan is the captain and, as wicketkeeper, he is involved in every phase of the game,” Mullick told Cricinfo. “This gives Vaibhav an opportunity to understand leadership without putting the responsibility of captaining the side on him. We want him to grow, maybe one day he could even captain India. That’s the thought behind giving him the vice-captaincy.”Cricinfo also reported that Easwaran was intentionally not considered for the vice-captain’s role. The selection committee reportedly felt it would not be appropriate for the vastly experienced batter to serve as deputy to the comparatively inexperienced Kishan.

Source link

Continue Reading

Sports

Steven Cairns fancies Adam Azim rematch after defeating him in the amateurs

Published

on

Despite boasting an amateur victory over ‘The Assassin’, top prospect Steven Cairns would gladly offer Adam Azim a shot at revenge in the professional ranks.

The two standout talents collided in 2018, both just 16 years old, with Cairns outpointing his razor-sharp opponent over three rounds.

According to the Irishman, though, the split decision verdict did not quite do his performance justice, as he was told shortly after their match that no other fighter had beaten the red-hot Azim so convincingly.

Advertisement

Only those inside St.Brigids Boxing Club in Edenderry, Ireland, will know the full story, but Cairns tells Boxing News that he received a ringing endorsement from several spectators.

“I think that’s a great fight for the future. When we fought in the amateurs, it was Ireland vs England – and I beat him.

“I remember there were a lot of English dads and coaches saying they’d never seen anyone [perform like that against] Adam Azim before.

“He’s a nice kid, but let’s see what happens in the future.”

With Azim closing in on a world title shot and Cairns progressing at a steadier rate, it could be some time before their second encounter is seriously considered.

Advertisement

In the meantime, Cairns looks to resume his development against Senan Kelly, featuring on the undercard of Pierce O’Leary vs Mark Chamberlain on August 1.

Coming off a ninth-round stoppage over Arnie Dawson, ‘The Irish Takeover’ returns to Dublin’s 3Arena and, this time around, will be travelling up to super-lightweight for an intriguing domestic dustup under Frank Warren’s Queensberry banner.

“[a clash with Kelly] had never really crossed my mind, because I’m a lightweight and he typically fights at 140lbs.

“But, for this event, we wanted a proper all-Irish clash – one that the fans would love – so that’s why I’m fighting at 140lbs. After this fight, I’ll be going back down to 135lbs.”

Like many of his fellow countrymen, Cairns has based himself in the UK since his professional debut, training in Sheffield with head coach Dave Coldwell.

Advertisement

Perhaps best known for his work with former world champion Tony Bellew, Coldwell was already on Cairns’ radar and, after showcasing his skills in the gym, the lightweight prospect was only too happy to remain in Steel City.

“I love Ireland; love all my family, my friends, my people. But being a pro boxer in Ireland is hard. It’s only now that we’re seeing big fights in Ireland.

“So, for me, it was a case of needing to go elsewhere, just to see how far I can really take myself in the sport.

“For an Irish fighter, it’s either the UK or America, and I’d already met Dave Coldwell. He started managing me first and then I asked if I could come over for sparring.

“At the time, it was one of the biggest moments of my life, even after winning national titles and European medals.

Advertisement

“I was going from sparring kids to sparring fully-grown men, so this was my audition to prove to Dave – a world-class coach – that I could hang with these men.

“It was then a proper buzz when he agreed to train me. My missus was not as buzzing, because she knew it would mean me moving to Sheffield, but it’s all good now – we’ve got a house together.”

Satisfied with his lifestyle – both professionally and personally – the 24-year-old must now focus on improving his record of 14-0 (9 KOs).

Perhaps a few fights down the line, Cairns could then start targeting a world-level rematch with Azim, who would surely be eager to exact his revenge over an old amateur foe.

Advertisement

Source link

Continue Reading

Sports

Where To Find Germany’s Stars After The 2026 World Cup

Published

on

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

It wasn’t the World Cup that Germany had hoped for following an early exit in the round of 32, thus stretching its drought of not reaching at least the semifinals to three tournaments. 

The four-time champions weren’t tabbed to win it all, but there’s always expectations of a deep run for this team. Things started off on the right foot with 7-1 win over debut side Curaçao in their Group E opener. That followed a 2-1 win over the Ivory Coast, but then 2-1 loss to Ecuador to close group stage play set the Germans back. Then it was a loss on penalties after a 1-1 draw to Paraguay in the round of 32 that sent the Germans home. 

So what’s next for Germany’s top players after the 2026 World Cup?

Advertisement
Kai Havertz

Havertz finished with three goals for Germany, including two in the 7-1 victory over Curaçao. He scored the equalizer in the game against Paraguay, but his penalty attempt against Oscar Gill was saved. 

Havertz was key to Arsenal’s Premier League winning campaign and scored in the Champions League final loss to Paris Saint-Germain. He’ll be back in action for the Gunners, who’ll look to defend its league crown.

Florian Wirtz

Things have been rocky lately for Germany’s talented attacking midfielder, who saw his first season at Liverpool fall short of lofty expectations. He scored just five goals in Premier League action amid questions on which position best suited him.

At the World Cup, he finished with three assists but couldn’t find the back of the net. He’ll now head back to Liverpool under new manager Andoni Iraola, where Wirtz will look to get back on track for both club and country.

Deniz Undav

Undav was Germany’s best player at the tournament despite being used as a substitute for most of it. He finished with three goals and two assists, including bagging a brace in the win over the Ivory Coast. 

A well-traveled veteran at age 30, Undav returns to Stuttgart in the Bundesliga, where he has been one of the team’s most consistent scorers.

Manuel Neuer

Regarded as one of the finest goalkeepers of all-time, Neuer became the oldest Germany player to feature at a major tournament, breaking the record previously held by Lothar Matthäus at 40 years and 79 days. 

Neuer was the sole player on this squad who was part of the 2014 Germany team that won the World Cup. With four editions on his résumé and with the most World Cup games played by a goalkeeper, he’ll go down as a legend of the game.

Advertisement

Neuer retired from international duty after this summer, the second time he did so after initially saying he was done after the 2024 European Championship tournament. He continues to play for Bayern Munich, where he equally holds numerous records. He has a staggering 13 Bundesliga titles and two Champions League titles to his name.

Source link

Continue Reading

Sports

Bill Belichick sidesteps Lombardi investigation at UNC’s fall camp

Published

on

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Before North Carolina played its first game under Bill Belichick, off-field headlines largely drowned out the football conversation.

Now, as fall camp ramps up ahead of the former NFL coach’s second season, questions are again swirling about matters away from the field. UNC officials confirmed earlier this week that general manager Michael Lombardi had been placed on leave pending an investigation. School officials announced Thursday that the probe had formally begun.

Details of the investigation remain sparse, and Belichick did little to clarify matters, appearing to sidestep questions about how Lombardi’s indefinite absence could affect the team.

Advertisement

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Michael Lombardi and Bill Belichick talk before UNC football game

North Carolina Tar Heels general manager Michael Lombardi talks with head coach Bill Belichick before a college football game against the Richmond Spiders at Kenan Memorial Stadium on Sept. 13, 2025, in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. (Lance King/Getty Images)

During a news conference, Belichick declined to directly address the situation. “We’re working through some things,” he said.

“We’re at a particular time of the year now where there are certain things that are in play, and certain things that are in play that will happen later in the calendar year. So we’re taking it day to day and work through the things that are on the table right now.”

Shortly before Belichick made those comments, UNC issued a statement saying that “as a result of concerns behind allegations that led to the personnel action regarding Michael Lombardi announced on July 27, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, through its Office of University Counsel, is in the process of investigating this matter.”

Advertisement
Michael Lombardi looks on before a game

General manager Michael Lombardi of the North Carolina Tar Heels looks on before a game against the Syracuse Orange at JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse, New York, on Oct. 31, 2025. (Bryan Bennett/Getty Images)

The investigation is being treated as a human resources matter, with no timeline set for a resolution. Athletic director Steve Newmark acknowledged the need for a thorough process but added that the school hopes to complete it “as quickly as possible.”

“From our perspective, and I think there’s a recognition across the board, that the university counsel’s office is going to have this go as quickly as possible,” Newmark said. “But I think it’s also important they do it the right way and they gather all the information they need.”

Newmark did not say whether the probe involved anyone else in the athletic department and declined to comment on reports of a separate College Sports Commission investigation into the Tar Heels’ football program.

NCAA ROCKED BY COLORADO JUDGE’S 2022 CLASS ELIGIBILITY RULING THAT COULD RESHAPE COLLEGE SPORTS THIS YEAR

Advertisement

UNC Chancellor Lee Roberts initially opted against weighing in on Michael Lombardi’s situation after a regularly scheduled Board of Trustees meeting. But he recently expressed some frustration with the attention surrounding the issue.

“I’m disappointed that we’re talking about this,” Roberts said before a recent media session wrapped up. “We should be focusing on our student-athletes and on their success. … It’s distressing to me and everyone else in the administration entrusted with leadership at this remarkable university that this is something we have to spend time on.”

Bill Belichick and Michael Lombardi stand on the sideline

North Carolina football head coach Bill Belichick and general manager Michael Lombardi look on from the sideline against TCU at Kenan Memorial Stadium in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, on Sept. 1, 2025. (Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)

The Tar Heels went 4-8 in Belichick’s first season at North Carolina.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Advertisement

Lombardi has hired attorney Tom Mars, 247Sports reported.

Mars released a statement Friday. “Michael hasn’t been told anything about the nature of UNC’s investigation and welcomes the opportunity to clear his name, which has already been sullied by baseless statements and innuendo on social media,” the statement read.

“He is fully cooperating with UNC and expects the investigation will be swift, thorough, and fair. Michael would ask that people have the decency to let the process run its course before jumping to any conclusions about the nature of the investigation or whether there’s any merit to whatever has been alleged.”

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Advertisement

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Sports

Welbeck transfer truth, Hall’s future and Tielemans – Manchester United Notebook

Published

on

There was some surprise among those close to Danny Welbeck that Manchester United didn’t try to rival Chelsea for his signature this summer, but the reality is that there was never any approach from Old Trafford for the 35-year-old.

United looked at Welbeck when Erik ten Hag was in charge in 2024, and came very close to a deal with Ruben Amorim at the helm in 2025. In fact, that move was so far advanced that most involved thought it was going to happen.

But it didn’t then and the reason United didn’t compete with Chelsea this summer is that, as things stand, they don’t want another striker. They have looked at the market and considered strengthening there, and there is a view that an experienced forward would be beneficial, but it’s nowhere near a priority at the moment.

That could change if there is a move for Joshua Zirkzee and Juventus are interested in a deal, although, as Notebook reported last week, it is likely to be a loan with an option or obligation to buy.

United are happy with Benjamin Sesko, who has stepped up his return to training over the last week or so, and expect a more prominent role for the Slovenian this season. Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha can also play through the middle.

So while signing another striker remains a possibility if Zirkzee departs, it isn’t a high priority for the recruitment department at the moment, which is why an emotional homecoming for Welbeck this year was never on the cards.

Hall an option

Advertisement

One area that is almost certain to be addressed this summer is left-back, especially if Harry Amass leaves, either on loan or in a permanent deal.

Luke Shaw is the only senior left-back at the club and for all that Amass has impressed in the early weeks of pre-season, it is considered a big step up to play a potentially prominent role in a Champions League season.

Noussair Mazraoui is another option on the left, but he covers right-back as well, and with Shaw’s fitness record always a nagging concern, further strength in depth is required on the left.

United do have Patrick Dorgu, who can cover left-back as well as left-wing, and if Marcus Rashford ends up staying at Old Trafford, which looks likely at the moment, then his role could shift, but there are a lot of variables down this flank.

Advertisement

One of them is the availability or otherwise of Lewis Hall. He fits the profile of left-back United have looked at. He is still only 21, but has plenty of Premier League experience, and could become a long-term solution in that role.

The issue is Newcastle have no need to sell and, if anything, they need to stop the exodus of star players this summer. United could test the waters with a bid, but if a deal is to happen, it is believed Hall will have to make it clear to his employers that he wants the move.

Belgians return

Senne Lammens and Youri Tielemans rocked up together for their first day at Carrington in pre-season on Thursday and the duo had returned to the club earlier than expected.

Advertisement

While players are being offered three to four weeks off after the World Cup, Lammens and Tielemans returned less than three weeks after Belgium were knocked out by Spain in the quarter-finals.

Both had their reasons for doing so. Lammens didn’t play much during the tournament but came on as a late substitute against Spain and made the error that led to his country getting knocked out. Tielemans missed that game with a minor injury and is keen to make a strong early impression at his new club.

It is expected that the Portuguese duo of Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes will return to Carrington at some point in the next few days as their own pre-season campaigns get underway. Fernandes has been a hit on social media recently, wearing a Scotland shirt with Scott McTominay’s name on it for summer workouts and a Croatia jersey with Luka Modric’s name on the back.

Advertisement

A friendly relationship

Tyler Fredricson posted an emotional goodbye to the only club he has ever known on Friday but his permanent move away from Old Trafford comes with a helping hand, with Lausanne-Sport co-owned by Ineos. The two clubs are starting to build a positive and helpful relationship.

That means the Swiss Super League side can get all the data and reports on Fredricson they need and they are delighted to have landed the 21-year-old centre-back on a three-year deal.

Fredricson was close to joining Celtic in January, only for injury to scupper that move. He has been training with United in pre-season, but missed the games against Wrexham and Rosenborg in preparation for his transfer.

Advertisement

While the fee hasn’t been disclosed, United have included a high-percentage sell-on and a buy-back clause into the deal, and there is hope that Fredricson will now really kick on for exposure to high-level first-team football.

Carrington dispatch

Things are starting to heat up for United, and after a couple of friendlies against relatively low-key opposition, in what have felt like relatively low-key events, the standards climb considerably now.

Atletico Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain will provide a better test, but it will be interesting to see what the atmosphere around the games is like. There is no getting away from the fact that the crowds in Helsinki and Trondheim have been below what is expected.

Advertisement

Late this week, at almost every block in Stockholm’s 50,000-capacity Strawberry Arena, tickets were still available for today’s game.

Quote of the week

“I’m very grateful to everyone at the club for making my time here such a positive and memorable experience. I’ve enjoyed every moment and will take many special memories with me. I wish the club and all its supporters the very best of luck and every success in the season ahead.”

Marcus Rashford took to social media on Thursday to say what looked to be a final farewell to Barcelona. The 28-year-old had made no secret of the fact that the Nou Camp was his dream destination, but that chapter looks to be closed.

Advertisement

Rashford will return to United in a couple of weeks and, at the moment, all roads lead to reconciliation and another chance at his boyhood club.

What to look out for next week

Dalot and Fernandes are due to return to Carrington next week and we can expect the intensity in training and around the facility to start going up a notch. Fernandes is club captain and Dalot is seen as a leader as well.

There has been a drip of World Cup stars returning to pre-season over the last week or so, but things will start heating up in the next couple of weeks and by the time United head to Wroclaw for their final assignment of pre-season, it is expected the squad will be back together.

Advertisement

Countdown to Kickoff: The Ultimate 26/27 Sky Sports Bundle

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Content Image

Sky’s Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle includes at least 215 live Premier League clashes across the 2026/27 season with more than 1,400 live games across the EFL and beyond, plus F1, golf and darts.

Every subscription now comes with 135 channels alongside free subscriptions to HBO Max, Netflix, Disney+, discovery+ and Hayu.

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Sports

Man City team predicted vs Inter as youngster given chance and Antoine Semenyo call made

Published

on

Manchester City take on Inter Milan in their first pre-season fixture of the summer in Hong Kong today.

Manchester City return to action this afternoon as they face Serie A giants Inter in Hong Kong. This weekend marks Enzo Maresca’s first match as the Blues’ head coach and supporters will be looking out for signs of what is to come from their new boss.

In his press conference on Friday, Maresca explained that the most important thing from this match was to raise the fitness levels of his players. And with only two weeks until the first competitive fixture of the season in the Community Shield, we can expect City to field a strong starting line-up this afternoon.

Advertisement

Gianluigi Donnarumma will be the Blues’ first choice this season and will start in goal. The back four in front of him will look very different. Matheus Nunes links up with the squad later today, so this game is a chance for Rico Lewis to get some minutes in at right-back. Fresh off their new contracts, Abdukodir Khusanov should start alongside Josko Gvardiol in the centre, with Rayan Ait-Nouri at left-back.

Nico Gonzalez was not picked for the World Cup and, in Rodri’s absence, should start in midfield. The 24-year-old will be key for City this season if the Ballon d’Or and Golden Boot winner leaves. Maresca is keen for Rodri to stay, but a succession plan is needed and Gonzalez will hope he can be part of that.

Alongside him could be either Mateo Kovacic or Tijjani Reijnders. Like Gonzalez, Reijnders looks to be at the start of an important season. His debut campaign was mixed and City will expect him to be more consistent this year.

Advertisement

Should Maresca stick with his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, there could be a chance for Ryan McAidoo against Inter. McAidoo was chosen, alongside Phil Foden and Khusanov, to model the club’s new away kit in Hong Kong and this could indicate his standing at the club, heading into the new season.

The 18-year-old made two senior appearances during the 2025/26 campaign. This included scoring in the 10-1 thrashing of Exeter City. Today could be a big test for him.

Maresca has spoken at length about getting Foden back to his old self. Playing down the middle should see Foden dictate the game, when he is at his best.

Up front, City are running low on centre-forwards. Omar Marmoush arrives on tour too late for this game and Erling Haaland remains on his break. Therefore, the Blues could start Antoine Semenyo as the striker. Ahead of another congested season, it could be wise for Maresca to try out an ‘in case of emergency’ tactic. Having another player who can start at centre-forward would be no bad thing.

Advertisement

City’s predicted line-up vs Inter: Donnarumma; Lewis, Khusanov, Gvardiol, Ait-Nouri; Nico, Reijnders; McAidoo, Foden, Savinho; Semenyo

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Sports

Mason Mount Man United exit route proposed in ‘doable’ summer transfer

Published

on

Mason Mount’s departure from Manchester United in order to reunite with a familiar face has been proposed

Mason Mount has been touted as a realistic signing for Premier League newcomers Coventry City – because of one man.

A reunion with his former Chelsea boss Frank Lampard could be on the cards, suggests Sky Blues legend Gary McAllister. The Manchester United midfielder has yet to consistently impress in his three-year spell at Old Trafford, which has been hampered by injury.

Advertisement

Mount – who has been a regular presence for United during pre-season this summer – made just 12 league starts for United last season. A return to regular football and a reunion with Lampard, with whom he worked at Derby County and Chelsea, makes the potential move practical, says the former Liverpool star.

Get MEN Premium now for just £1 HERE – or get involved in our United WhatsApp group by clicking HERE. You can also join our United Facebook page by clicking HERE and don’t miss out on our brilliant selection of newsletters HERE.

Speaking to Lottoland, McAllister said: “This one could happen! Mason Mount’s not playing football, and he got on really well with Frank. You know, as a player, Mason Mount has been at two massive clubs.

“Financially, he’s probably sorted, so he’s not necessarily playing for money. Getting minutes and playing Premier League football on loan, I know it sounds massively extreme, but it’s doable because I think there’s a lot of respect between the pair.”

Advertisement

It’s not just Mount who could consider a switch to Coventry on account of Lampard, with a number of his former Chelsea team-mates also being mentioned. The ex-Scotland international suggested: “I think [Ruben] Loftus-Cheek has been mentioned as well.

“[Fikayo] Tomori has also been linked. I think Frank will be using all these connections. You know, the association he had with Everton as well, he could probably use that. I’ve seen Ben Chilwell mentioned as well.

“I think they mentioned that left-back might be a place where they need to strengthen. Again, there’s a Chelsea connection and a strong one to Frank there. I think they’re going to try to do everything to get the best players they can get into that building to survive.”

Advertisement

Mount was given the captain’s armband in the second-half of United’s 5-0 win over Rosenborg last week. Seemingly entrusted by United boss Michael Carrick to be one of the leaders of the squad, Mount said in April that it’s a role he relishes.

He said: “Having the pressure of performing and winning games is what we love as players. If it’s a start or coming off the bench, I’m ready. You have different types of leaders. You have ones that are very vocal, but I see myself as one who leads by example and never stops working.

“I’ve been captain previously, years ago, so I love the role. Especially with a lot of younger players on the pitch, and off it as well, being able to speak to them and make them feel comfortable, it’s something I really like.”

Advertisement

Thousands of Man United fans upgraded their matchday last season. This is how they did it.

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Content Image

Various Prices

Seat Unique

Buy official packages at Seat Unique

Official premium experiences at Old Trafford are available now for the 26/27 Premier League season. Make it easier than ever to turn a regular fixture into something genuinely unforgettable.

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Sports

Fifa World Cup plans: Gianni Infantino scraps private investment proposal after widespread opposition

Published

on

Infantino became Fifa president in 2016 when he beat AFC president Sheikh Salman al-Khalifa by 115 votes to 88.

Fifa’s next president will be confirmed at the organisation’s 77th Congress in Morocco next March. Candidates have until 18 November to put their names forward.

Prior to this week, it had been anticipated Infantino would be re-elected unopposed. Associations around the world, including some in Europe, had already confirmed their intention to vote for him.

It remains to be seen if the events of this week will result in a mass withdrawal of their support.

Advertisement

In his statement, Infantino reiterated his plan was designed to strengthen members associations, “especially in countries where support is most needed”.

He added: “Our purpose has always been – and always will be – to unite and improve.”

However, the proposal clearly created division within Fifa itself.

Cordeiro, who represented the world governing body on the White House taskforce for the 2026 World Cup, is the first senior figure at Fifa to resign over the plans.

Advertisement

In a lengthy statement, Cordeiro said he “unequivocally” opposed the plans and said he “did not accept the proposition” Fifa needed outside investors to “unlock greater value”. He added he had no involvement in the proposal.

It is understood Infantino even left some of Fifa’s eight vice-presidents in the dark about his plan, which it is claimed could have raised $10bn (£7.5bn).

Lamour called it “the project of one person” and said “a president must bring people together, unite them, and inspire them” but this was “the opposite”.

“If that means I lose my job, then so be it,” he added. “I will understand and respect that decision. At least I’ll sleep well tonight.”

Advertisement

Source link

Continue Reading

Sports

Why Neeraj Chopra’s CWG 2026 silver meant more with Yashvir Singh by his side in Glasgow | Commonwealth Games News

Published

on

Why Neeraj Chopra's CWG 2026 silver meant more with Yashvir Singh by his side in Glasgow
Neeraj Chopra (Image credit: Agencies)

NEW DELHI: Neeraj Chopra added another medal to his glittering career at the Commonwealth Games, but the silver medal was not the only reason for his smile. The Olympic champion said sharing the podium with fellow Indian Yashvir Singh made the moment even more special.Neeraj finished second in the men’s javelin throw with a season-best effort of 85.83m, while Commonwealth Games debutant Yashvir Singh clinched the bronze medal with a personal best throw of 85.41m in his final attempt. Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage claimed the gold with a best throw of 89.75m. Competing in only his second event of the season, Neeraj battled difficult weather conditions to throw 85.83m in his second attempt. The effort, his season best, was enough to earn him the silver medal in his second Commonwealth Games appearance. He had won the gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast.

.

The CWG 2026 silver added to an already impressive medal collection that includes Olympic gold and silver, World Championships gold and silver, two Asian Games gold medals, a Commonwealth Games gold and silver, the Diamond League title, the Asian Championships gold, the South Asian Games gold and the U20 World Championships gold.

Neeraj Chopra’s medal record

Competition Medal/Result Year Host City Event
Olympic Games Gold 2020 Tokyo Javelin throw
Olympic Games Silver 2024 Paris Javelin throw
World Championships Gold 2023 Budapest Javelin throw
World Championships Silver 2022 Eugene Javelin throw
Diamond League First Place 2022 Zurich Javelin throw
Commonwealth Games Gold 2018 Gold Coast Javelin throw
Commonwealth Games Silver 2026 Glasgow Javelin throw
Asian Games Gold 2018 Jakarta Javelin throw
Asian Games Gold 2022 Hangzhou Javelin throw
Asian Championships Gold 2017 Bhubaneswar Javelin throw
South Asian Games Gold 2016 Guwahati Javelin throw
U20 World Championships Gold 2016 Bydgoszcz Javelin throw
U20 Asian Championships Silver 2016 Ho Chi Minh City Javelin throw

‘It feels great to be on the podium together’

Advertisement

Neeraj was full of praise for Yashvir, who produced the best throw of his career under pressure, and said sharing the podium with another Indian reminded him of the Asian Games medal double.“It brings back memories of the Asian Games, where Saurav and I both won medals. I’m really happy that Yashvir achieved a personal best at such a crucial moment. It feels great to be on the podium together. It’s always a joy to hear the national anthem play. That said, I also achieved a season-best, and my comeback is progressing well. There are more competitions ahead, so I’m very happy,” Chopra told reporters.

Yashvir shines on Commonwealth Games debut

Yashvir emerged as the surprise package of the competition. The 24-year-old produced a personal best throw of 85.41m on his sixth and final attempt to win the bronze medal on his Commonwealth Games debut.He improved his previous personal best of 83.72m and finished ahead of several established names, including Anderson Peters and Arshad Nadeem.Reflecting on his medal-winning throw, Yashvir said he kept believing he could produce something special despite a slow start.“This is my first international medal, and I am overjoyed. Everyone supported me, my family, my parents, everyone… I am truly happy about this… things were going a bit sluggishly at the start. At one point, my throw was around 81.3 meters. I saw that the bronze medal mark was sitting at 82 meters. I told myself, ‘I’ve already thrown 82 meters–my personal best–in this competition, so I can definitely go beyond that.‘ Things weren’t going well up to the fifth throw, so for the final attempt, I decided to just go for it and see what happens. That last throw turned out really well,” Singh said.

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Sports

Surprising WWE star acknowledges Roman Reigns ahead of SummerSlam

Published

on

A surprising WWE star decided to acknowledge Roman Reigns ahead of SummerSlam. Reigns will be defending the World Heavyweight Championship in the main event of Night 2 of the PLE this weekend.

IYO SKY won the Queen of the Ring tournament last month and will be challenging Liv Morgan for the Women’s World Championship at SummerSlam 2026.

Ahead of the PLE, WWE shared a video featuring The Genius of the SKY acknowledging Reigns as his entrance theme played. You can check it out in the post below.

Advertisement

Roman Reigns will be defending the World Heavyweight Championship against Seth Rollins at SummerSlam. The two stars had their final face-to-face ahead of their title match this past Monday night on WWE RAW.

Rollins claimed that he owned Reigns in the ring and stated that he wanted The Tribal Chief’s family in attendance at the PLE so he could make them cry. This angered The Head of the Table, and he leveled Rollins with a Superman Punch.

Reigns then brought a steel chair into the ring, but it backfired. Rollins connected with a Stomp to Reigns on top of the chair and is heading into SummerSlam with the momentum on his side.

WWE star opens up about betraying Roman Reigns in the past

Seth Rollins recently opened up about betraying Roman Reigns in 2014 while they were both members of The Shield alongside Dean Ambrose, now known as Jon Moxley in AEW.

Advertisement

Speaking on WWE’s YouTube channel, The Visionary stated that he had no idea about the domino effect his betrayal would cause for Reigns’ career.

“While I think the chair shot itself and the decision was probably made in haste and made without the foresight of what it would become, I never imagined Roman Reigns would become the Tribal Chief based on the resentment, the pain, and the PTSD from that chair shot. And I never imagined exactly how our paths would go, but I think what it did was give us a chance, right? It gave us both an opportunity to step out on our own and become the things that we were meant to become,” Rollins said.

“From the moment we came into the shield, I held his hand and nursed him along and kind of helped him out and got him to the next level … I’ve owned him.” @WWERollins has a message for Roman Reigns 👀

Only time will tell which star walks out of SummerSlam as the reigning World Heavyweight Champion.